Many health and wellness trends come and go, but this trending sport has firmly established itself in the zeitgeist. Dink and Drink opened its courts in May 2025 and has proved that pickleball is poised to stay in the Coastal Bend.
Southern Winn, majority owner of Dink and Drink, was skeptical of pickleball when it started gaining popularity, given his background as a tennis player from a young age. “I initially wrote it off [pickleball]; it seemed like a sport for when I am older, a retirement sport. But I had some tennis friends that started playing pickleball, and they really started to sell me on it,” said Winn.
Besides being fun, the dynamics of the sport offer a blend of physical and mental benefits that make the experience even more enjoyable. The physical benefits blend coordination, balance and agility while strengthening key muscle groups. Due to its low-impact nature, it is easy for the whole family to get involved, regardless of age or skill level.
Furthermore, the social aspect enables the formation of connections and community both on and off the court. “I started to play pickleball and saw the positive impact it had on my life. It got me active, healthy and I got to meet some really good friends,” Winn shared.
Dink and Drink offers a place to play pickleball, sure, but the nature of the space fosters a more communal experience. The spacious design includes indoor and outdoor courts to play on at any time of day, with open play sessions offered daily. For those looking to learn the game and sharpen their skills, private and group lessons are available upon request.
After a day of play, guests can unwind with pickleball-themed specialty cocktails and a variety of menu items such as salads, burgers and pizza. The outside patio has plenty of seating for spectators to sit back and watch the action or even enjoy live music on select days.
“My vision from day one was to have a facility that is family-friendly,” Winn said. “I wanted it to be more of a social place where you can bring your families to play or just come to eat and hang out.”
There has never been a better time than now to pick up a paddle and discover why pickleball has become the latest obsession. Whether you want to sip, serve or socialize, Dink and Drink is topping the list of local must-do’s.
Contact: 14325 Northwest Blvd. | @dinkanddrinkcc
