Pros 
Cons A Hole-in-One for Family Fun? Examining Ben & Ari's
Ben & Ari’s, located at 13875 Trade Center Dr in Fishers, Indiana, currently boasts a 4.1-star rating – but what do patrons really think? This indoor miniature golf course appears to be a popular spot, especially for families, but a deeper dive into reviews reveals a mixed bag of experiences. It's clearly a contender for indoor entertainment, but some aspects require closer inspection. The facility shines with amenities like a restaurant and restrooms, and prioritizes accessibility with a wheelchair accessible entrance, making it inclusive for a wider range of visitors. Many reviewers specifically mention its appeal for children, highlighting that it's a "good spot for kids."
Here’s a breakdown of what people are saying:
- Positives: The overall vibe is fun and friendly. Several reviews specifically praise the staff's welcoming attitude. The arcade games are a significant draw, with one reviewer noting that all machines were functioning – a rarity these days! Ben & Ari's provides a variety of activities, making it more than just a mini golf experience.
- Value: Customers consistently point to the affordability of Ben & Ari’s, especially when utilizing coupons or Groupons. It's seen as a "great deal" providing significant entertainment for the price.
- Cleanliness: The courses are generally described as clean and well-maintained.
- Potential Downsides: While fun, some patrons believe the indoor games could use more variety. Weekends with nice weather see increased crowds, so anticipating longer wait times is advisable.
Beyond the Putt: Arcade & Restaurant Experiences
Ben & Ari’s doesn’t stop at miniature golf. The inclusion of an arcade contributes significantly to its appeal, especially for those seeking a more comprehensive entertainment experience. Reviewers consistently acknowledge the functioning arcade games as a major benefit. This is a vital point, as malfunctioning arcade machines can quickly dampen the mood.
The on-site restaurant, while convenient, receives more mixed feedback. While described as “decent for the price,” staffing levels appear to be a concern. This can potentially impact service speed and overall quality.
Here's a quick look at customer sentiment regarding these additional features:
| Feature | Sentiment | Key Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Arcade | Mostly Positive | "All games functioning," "Rare find" |
| Restaurant | Mixed | "Decent for the price," "Needs better staffing" |
| Overall Value | Positive | "Great deal," "Affordable" |
Accessibility & Customer Service - A Tale of Two Experiences
While Ben & Ari's makes an effort towards accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, customer service surrounding special needs seems to be a point of contention. One review specifically highlights a lack of empathy from the owner's second in command towards individuals with disabilities. This is a serious concern, and creating a truly inclusive environment requires sensitivity and understanding.
Furthermore, a significant and troubling complaint revolves around dietary restrictions. The business apparently refuses service to patrons with food allergies or restricted diets, insisting they purchase food sold on-site. This policy is not only potentially dangerous but also discriminatory. This inflexible approach contrasts sharply with the welcoming atmosphere reported by other customers.
Here’s a breakdown of these critical points:
"Not much empathy for people with disabilities by the owner’s second in command…They expect you to eat the food that they sell only." - Direct quote from a customer review.
This concern warrants serious attention from management.
Reflecting on Past Enjoyment & Future Potential
It is disheartening to see reviews expressing sadness over the closure of the facility, implying a previously positive experience for those customers. This underlines the importance of maintaining quality and service to foster loyalty. Ben & Ari’s possesses qualities that clearly resonate with many: it offers family-friendly entertainment at an affordable price, and generally provides a clean and pleasant environment.
However, addressing the negative feedback – particularly regarding customer service sensitivity and dietary restrictions – is crucial for sustained success. Improving staffing levels to better support the restaurant is another area for potential growth.
Despite these concerns, the prevailing sentiment leans towards positive. Ben & Ari’s seems to deliver on its promise of a fun family outing, as long as potential patrons are aware of the reported issues and can plan accordingly. The staff's friendliness and the functioning arcade are strong selling points. A little attention to inclusivity and service could elevate Ben & Ari’s from a good choice to a truly great one. You can reach them at (317) 770-5294.