Are you tired of the same old routine of dinner and a movie? Looking for a unique and engaging way to spend time with friends and family? Look no further than board game cafes in Illinois! These cafes offer a fun and casual atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while playing a wide variety of board games. From Stay & Play Game Cafe’s Puerto Rican food and rum-based cocktails to Athena Board Game Cafe’s elevated versions of childhood classics, there’s something for everyone. So why not switch up your routine and try out one of these exciting board game cafes? Keep reading to learn more about our favorite locations in Illinois.
🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:
***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Athena Board Game Cafe. With a focus on easy-to-learn games and elevated versions of childhood classics, Athena Board Game Cafe offers a unique and enjoyable experience for all ages. The cafe is also Latinx and women-owned, making it a great choice for those looking to support diverse businesses. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional board game cafe experience, Stay & Play Game Cafe may be a better fit. Overall, Athena Board Game Cafe stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, delicious menu, and commitment to inclusivity.
🏅 Best By Category:
TOP AMENITIES: – Athena Board Game Cafe offers the most comprehensive list of amenities, including staff fully vaccinated, accepts various payment methods, and provides free Wi-Fi and wheelchair accessibility.
SOLID VALUE: – Evanston Games and Cafe provides solid value with its free Wi-Fi, good for groups, and good for kids amenities. It also offers garage parking and accepts various payment methods.
GREAT FOR BEGINNERS: – Chicagoland Games is great for beginners with its wheelchair accessibility and bike parking amenities. It also accepts credit cards and Apple Pay, making transactions easy for those who are new to board game cafes.
More About The State
Illinois is more than just a state in the Midwest United States. It’s a hub of diverse industries, natural resources, and cultural attractions. From the bustling metropolis of Chicago to the agricultural and industrial centers in the north and center, and the natural resources in the south, Illinois has something for everyone. Its history is rich, with indigenous cultures, French settlers, and American pioneers all leaving their mark. Notable landmarks include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, the Port of Chicago, and the Great Lakes. Illinois is also home to some of the world’s best museums, including the John G. Shedd Aquarium and the Art Institute of Chicago. And, of course, let’s not forget about our favorite picks for board game cafes in Illinois! Keep reading to find out more.
How We Are Rating These Locations:
1) 🎲 GAME SELECTION: The variety and quality of board games offered by the cafe, including classic and new games.
2) 🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: The quality and variety of food and drinks offered by the cafe, including any unique or themed options.
3) 💰 PRICE: The affordability of the cafe’s offerings, including game rentals, food, and drinks.
4) 🚪 ATMOSPHERE: The ambiance and comfort of the cafe, including seating, lighting, and decor.
5) 🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: The sense of community and inclusivity fostered by the cafe, including events, tournaments, and welcoming staff.
Board game cafes in Illinois offer a unique and fun experience for customers looking to spend quality time with friends and family. From Chicagoland Games to Stay & Play Game Cafe, these businesses offer a variety of amenities such as outdoor seating, happy hour specials, and even Puerto Rican food and rum-based cocktails. When evaluating these types of businesses, it’s important to consider factors such as the variety of board games available, the quality of food and drinks, and the overall atmosphere of the location. Additionally, businesses like Evanston Games and Cafe focus on community-building, while Athena Board Game Cafe specializes in casual games that are easy to learn and fun to play. Whether you’re a seasoned board game enthusiast or a newcomer to the scene, these cafes offer something for everyone. So why not grab a cup of coffee or smoothie at Critical Grind Board Game Cafe and challenge your friends to a game of Settlers of Catan? It’s a great way to disconnect from technology and connect with the people around you.
Additional Criteria:
- Board Game Selection – Variety and Quantity
- Food and Drink Options – Quality and Diversity
- Atmosphere – Ambience and Comfort
- Customer Service – Friendliness and Knowledgeability
Option #1. Chicagoland Games
Address: 5550 N Broadway Chicago, IL 60640 Phone: (773) 728-3656
Board Game Selection: Vast and diverse
Food and Drink Options: Not applicable
Atmosphere: Welcoming and accessible
Customer Service: Friendly and knowledgeable
Chicagoland Games is an ideal destination for those who have a fondness for board games, and it can be found in Chicago, IL. The establishment is properly maintained and presents a vast array of board, war, card, and roleplaying games. The personnel are amiable and accommodating, and the store is designed to be wheelchair accessible. They boast an extensive collection of games, which you can play for free to determine if you want to purchase them. The only drawback is that the layout can be cramped, and it can be challenging to navigate through the aisles when it’s crowded. All in all, Chicagoland Games is a fantastic place to hang out, and they offer drop-in D&D adventures on Saturdays. If you’re searching for a unique board or card game that you can’t find at larger retailers, this is the place to be.
Pros:
- Vast array of board, war, card, and roleplaying games
- Extensive collection of games available to play for free
- Amiable and accommodating personnel
- Wheelchair accessible store
Cons:
- Cramped layout can make it challenging to navigate through the aisles when crowded
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Chicagoland Games offers a vast array of board, war, card, and roleplaying games, including free play to test games before purchase.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: N/A – No information provided about food and drink offerings.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Affordable game rentals, purchases, and accommodating staff.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 7/10 – Properly maintained, wheelchair accessible, but cramped layout can make it challenging to navigate.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 9/10 – Inclusive and welcoming staff, drop-in D&D adventures on Saturdays, and a sense of community fostered by the cafe.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.3/10 – Ideal for board game enthusiasts searching for unique games and a sense of community, but may not be ideal for those who prefer a spacious layout.
Option #2. Stay & Play Game Cafe
- Cramped layout can make it challenging to navigate through the aisles when crowded
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Chicagoland Games offers a vast array of board, war, card, and roleplaying games, including free play to test games before purchase.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: N/A – No information provided about food and drink offerings.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Affordable game rentals, purchases, and accommodating staff.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 7/10 – Properly maintained, wheelchair accessible, but cramped layout can make it challenging to navigate.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 9/10 – Inclusive and welcoming staff, drop-in D&D adventures on Saturdays, and a sense of community fostered by the cafe.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.3/10 – Ideal for board game enthusiasts searching for unique games and a sense of community, but may not be ideal for those who prefer a spacious layout.
Option #2. Stay & Play Game Cafe
Address: 3932 W Irving Park Rd Chicago, IL 60618 Phone: (312) 685-2255
Board Game Selection: Over 500 games available.
Food and Drink Options: Puerto Rican cuisine, rum-infused drinks.
Atmosphere: Welcoming and entertaining.
Customer Service: Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Looking for an enjoyable evening with your loved ones or buddies? Look no further than the Stay & Play Game Cafe located in Chicago, Illinois. This establishment offers a distinct blend of Puerto Rican cuisine, rum-infused drinks, and a vast selection of over 500 board games to choose from. The extensive collection of games is sorted by category, making it a breeze to locate the ideal game for your group. The welcoming personnel is always available to assist with game selection and setup. Although the food portions are ample and scrumptious, the prices may be a bit steep for larger groups. Furthermore, the absence of delivery or takeout options may be a disadvantage for some patrons. In general, the Stay & Play Game Cafe is the ideal destination for an entertaining night of games and merriment with friends and family.
Pros:
- Offers a unique blend of Puerto Rican cuisine, rum-infused drinks, and over 500 board games to choose from.
- Extensive collection of games sorted by category, making it easy to find the perfect game for your group.
- Welcoming personnel available to assist with game selection and setup.
Cons:
- Prices may be a bit steep for larger groups.
- No delivery or takeout options available.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Over 500 board games sorted by category, with helpful staff for game selection and setup.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 8/10 – Distinct blend of Puerto Rican cuisine and rum-infused drinks, ample and scrumptious portions.
💰 PRICE: 6/10 – Prices may be a bit steep for larger groups, but reasonable for smaller groups.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Welcoming personnel, comfortable seating, and pleasant decor.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 9/10 – Sense of community fostered by events, tournaments, and welcoming staff.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8/10 – Ideal for groups of friends and family looking for an entertaining night of games and merriment, but may not be ideal for those on a tight budget or looking for delivery/takeout options.
- Prices may be a bit steep for larger groups.
- No delivery or takeout options available.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Over 500 board games sorted by category, with helpful staff for game selection and setup.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 8/10 – Distinct blend of Puerto Rican cuisine and rum-infused drinks, ample and scrumptious portions.
💰 PRICE: 6/10 – Prices may be a bit steep for larger groups, but reasonable for smaller groups.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Welcoming personnel, comfortable seating, and pleasant decor.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 9/10 – Sense of community fostered by events, tournaments, and welcoming staff.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8/10 – Ideal for groups of friends and family looking for an entertaining night of games and merriment, but may not be ideal for those on a tight budget or looking for delivery/takeout options.
DID YOU KNOW: 🎲 – The creator of Monopoly, originally called The Landlord’s Game, was born in Macomb, Illinois, the same town where the world’s largest Monopoly board will soon be installed. This connection makes the installation of the board even more special and significant.
Option #3. Snakes & Lattes – Chicago
Address: 1965 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL 60647 Phone: (872) 310-3999
Board Game Selection: Vast and trendy options
Food and Drink Options: Surprisingly delectable choices
Atmosphere: Iconic game vault, themed rooms
Customer Service: Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Are you searching for an exceptional and enjoyable way to spend quality time with your loved ones or friends? Look no further than Snakes & Lattes in Chicago! This eatery and bar is a haven for board game enthusiasts, offering a vast array of games for all group sizes, ranging from classics to trendy and competitive options. The themed private rooms and iconic game vault enhance the overall experience, creating an ambiance that transports you to a different world. The food and beverages are surprisingly delectable, with choices such as whipped feta dip and cheese fries. However, it’s worth noting that the cost can be somewhat steep, and there have been some concerns with the POS system. Overall, Snakes & Lattes is an excellent destination for a laid-back gaming session with friends or a memorable date night.
Pros:
- Vast array of board games for all group sizes
- Themed private rooms and iconic game vault create a unique ambiance
- Surprisingly delectable food and beverages, including whipped feta dip and cheese fries
- Great destination for a laid-back gaming session with friends or a memorable date night
Cons:
- Cost can be somewhat steep
- Some concerns with the POS system
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Vast array of classic and trendy games for all group sizes, including themed private rooms and iconic game vault.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 8/10 – Surprisingly delectable food and beverages, including unique options like whipped feta dip and cheese fries.
💰 PRICE: 6/10 – Somewhat steep cost, including game rentals, food, and drinks.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Ambiance transports you to a different world, with comfortable seating, lighting, and decor.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 8/10 – Sense of community and inclusivity fostered by events, tournaments, and welcoming staff.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8/10 – Ideal for board game enthusiasts looking for a laid-back gaming session with friends or a memorable date night. May not be ideal for those on a tight budget.
Option #4. Evanston Games and Cafe
- Cost can be somewhat steep
- Some concerns with the POS system
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Vast array of classic and trendy games for all group sizes, including themed private rooms and iconic game vault.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 8/10 – Surprisingly delectable food and beverages, including unique options like whipped feta dip and cheese fries.
💰 PRICE: 6/10 – Somewhat steep cost, including game rentals, food, and drinks.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Ambiance transports you to a different world, with comfortable seating, lighting, and decor.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 8/10 – Sense of community and inclusivity fostered by events, tournaments, and welcoming staff.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8/10 – Ideal for board game enthusiasts looking for a laid-back gaming session with friends or a memorable date night. May not be ideal for those on a tight budget.
Option #4. Evanston Games and Cafe
Address: 1610 Maple Ave Ste 1 Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: (224) 999-7615
Board Game Selection: Vast and Welcoming
Food and Drink Options: Vegetarian and Discounts
Atmosphere: Community and Relaxing
Customer Service: Knowledgeable and Welcoming
Are you searching for a location to indulge in board games while sipping on a hot cup of coffee? Evanston Games and Cafe is the answer to your quest! This cafe, which prioritizes community, provides a range of amenities, such as takeout, free Wi-Fi, and restrooms that are gender-neutral. Evanston Games and Cafe is the ideal place for gamers of all ages and skill levels, with a vast selection of games and welcoming staff who are knowledgeable about all aspects of gaming. Although the food menu is restricted, the cafe offers a variety of vegetarian options and even provides discounts for exceptional grades. The only drawbacks are that the cafe does not serve alcohol and dogs are not permitted. Nevertheless, Evanston Games and Cafe is an excellent place to relax, play games, and enjoy some delectable food and drinks. So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or simply looking for a fun spot to hang out with friends, Evanston Games and Cafe is unquestionably worth a visit.
Pros:
- Provides a range of amenities such as takeout, free Wi-Fi, and gender-neutral restrooms
- Welcoming staff who are knowledgeable about all aspects of gaming
- Offers a variety of vegetarian options on the food menu
- Provides discounts for exceptional grades
Cons:
- Does not serve alcohol
- Dogs are not permitted
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Vast selection of classic and new games for all skill levels.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 7/10 – Limited food menu but offers vegetarian options and discounts for exceptional grades.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Affordable game rentals, food, and drinks.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Comfortable seating, welcoming ambiance, and gender-neutral restrooms.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 10/10 – Prioritizes community with events, tournaments, and knowledgeable staff.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Ideal for gamers of all ages and skill levels who want a welcoming and inclusive community. Not ideal for those looking for alcoholic beverages or bringing their dogs.
Option #5. Athena Board Game Cafe
- Does not serve alcohol
- Dogs are not permitted
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Vast selection of classic and new games for all skill levels.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 7/10 – Limited food menu but offers vegetarian options and discounts for exceptional grades.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Affordable game rentals, food, and drinks.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Comfortable seating, welcoming ambiance, and gender-neutral restrooms.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 10/10 – Prioritizes community with events, tournaments, and knowledgeable staff.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Ideal for gamers of all ages and skill levels who want a welcoming and inclusive community. Not ideal for those looking for alcoholic beverages or bringing their dogs.
Option #5. Athena Board Game Cafe
Address: 1418 W Howard St Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (872) 208-3172
Board Game Selection: Easy-to-learn games
Food and Drink Options: Elevated childhood dishes
Atmosphere: Safe and welcoming
Customer Service: Fully vaccinated staff
Welcome to Athena Board Game Cafe, a Latinx and women-owned business located in Chicago, IL. They offer a range of easy-to-learn and enjoyable casual games, as well as elevated versions of classic childhood dishes like seasoned grilled cheese and pesto turkey and muenster. The staff is fully vaccinated and masks are required, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all. Although there is no outdoor seating, the cafe provides free Wi-Fi and is wheelchair accessible. While delivery is not available, customers can make reservations and takeout is an option. Despite the absence of alcohol and happy hour, Athena Board Game Cafe is an excellent spot to socialize with friends and find a sense of community. Although there is no outdoor seating and dogs are not permitted, the cafe provides reusable tableware and gender-neutral restrooms. Overall, Athena Board Game Cafe is ideal for those who want to have fun and enjoy delicious snacks in a relaxed and informal setting while playing board games.
Pros:
- Latinx and women-owned business
- Offers easy-to-learn and enjoyable casual games
- Elevated versions of classic childhood dishes
- Fully vaccinated staff and masks required for safety
Cons:
- No outdoor seating
- Delivery not available
- Dogs not permitted
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Athena Board Game Cafe offers a great variety of easy-to-learn and enjoyable casual games, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 8/10 – The cafe offers elevated versions of classic childhood dishes, with unique and tasty twists. Although there is no alcohol, the drinks and snacks are delicious.
💰 PRICE: 7/10 – The prices are reasonable for the quality and variety of games and food offered, but it may not be the most affordable option for everyone.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a friendly staff. The cafe is fully vaccinated and masks are required, ensuring a safe environment.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 10/10 – Athena Board Game Cafe fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, with events and tournaments that bring people together. The staff is welcoming and friendly.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Athena Board Game Cafe is perfect for those who want to have fun and enjoy delicious snacks in a cozy and welcoming setting while playing board games. It may not be ideal for those looking for outdoor seating or alcohol options.
- No outdoor seating
- Delivery not available
- Dogs not permitted
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Athena Board Game Cafe offers a great variety of easy-to-learn and enjoyable casual games, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 8/10 – The cafe offers elevated versions of classic childhood dishes, with unique and tasty twists. Although there is no alcohol, the drinks and snacks are delicious.
💰 PRICE: 7/10 – The prices are reasonable for the quality and variety of games and food offered, but it may not be the most affordable option for everyone.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a friendly staff. The cafe is fully vaccinated and masks are required, ensuring a safe environment.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 10/10 – Athena Board Game Cafe fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, with events and tournaments that bring people together. The staff is welcoming and friendly.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Athena Board Game Cafe is perfect for those who want to have fun and enjoy delicious snacks in a cozy and welcoming setting while playing board games. It may not be ideal for those looking for outdoor seating or alcohol options.
DID YOU KNOW: 💰 – The world’s largest Monopoly board is set to be installed in Macomb, Illinois, the birthplace of the game’s inventor, to boost tourism and attract visitors to the town’s historic downtown square. The $40,000 project will be covered by an Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grant and is part of a $22.5 million investment for nearly 90 tourism festivals and attractions in Illinois.
Option #6. It’s Good To Be King
Address: 129 W First St Elmhurst, IL 60126 Phone: (630) 833-5060
Board Game Selection: Wide chess selection.
Food and Drink Options: Not applicable.
Atmosphere: Cozy and welcoming.
Customer Service: Friendly and knowledgeable.
If you’re in search of a chess set that exudes regal vibes, then It’s Good To Be King in Elmhurst, IL is the place to be. This top-notch chess emporium has been catering to the Chicago metropolitan area since 1996 and boasts a wide array of chess sets, toy soldiers, and replica weapons. Although you could easily purchase a board on the internet, it’s definitely worth a visit to experience the materials firsthand and support a local enterprise. Tom and Marguerite, the proprietors, are well-informed and accommodating, and will steer you towards the ideal set to suit your requirements. Keep in mind that the selection may be limited on occasion, but the prices are reasonable and the customer service is superb. All in all, It’s Good To Be King is a fantastic destination for chess aficionados seeking to elevate their game.
Pros:
- Wide array of chess sets, toy soldiers, and replica weapons
- Well-informed and accommodating proprietors who offer excellent customer service
- Opportunity to experience materials firsthand and support a local enterprise
- Reasonable prices
Cons:
- Selection may be limited on occasion
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 8/10 – Wide array of chess sets and replica weapons, but limited selection on occasion.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: N/A – No mention of food or drink offerings.
💰 PRICE: 7/10 – Reasonable prices for sets, but no mention of food and drink prices.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – Regal vibes, accommodating staff, and well-informed proprietors.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 7/10 – No mention of events or tournaments, but welcoming staff fosters a sense of community.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 7.6/10 – Ideal for chess aficionados seeking to elevate their game, but not for those looking for a full-service cafe experience.
Option #7. By the Board Games & Entertainment
- Selection may be limited on occasion
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 8/10 – Wide array of chess sets and replica weapons, but limited selection on occasion.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: N/A – No mention of food or drink offerings.
💰 PRICE: 7/10 – Reasonable prices for sets, but no mention of food and drink prices.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – Regal vibes, accommodating staff, and well-informed proprietors.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 7/10 – No mention of events or tournaments, but welcoming staff fosters a sense of community.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 7.6/10 – Ideal for chess aficionados seeking to elevate their game, but not for those looking for a full-service cafe experience.
Option #7. By the Board Games & Entertainment
Address: 224 E Commercial Ave Lowell, IN 46356 Phone: (219) 576-7892
Board Game Selection: Extensive collection, affordable prices
Food and Drink Options: Not provided
Atmosphere: Compact, tidy, well-illuminated
Customer Service: Exceptional, secure and entertaining
Located in Lowell, IN, By the Board Games & Entertainment is a game lounge that provides a secure and hygienic atmosphere for groups of friends and family to gather and engage in game play. The establishment hosts a variety of popular events, including Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, and Dungeons & Dragons. Situated in the downtown area of Lowell, the store is compact, well-illuminated, and tidy. It boasts an extensive collection of tabletop games and gift items available for purchase. Although the inventory of games for sale is not as vast as other retailers, the games on offer are excellent introductory games, and most are priced at $50 or less. The store accepts credit cards and cryptocurrency, but regrettably, it does not provide wheelchair accessibility or bike parking. All things considered, By the Board Games & Entertainment is an exceptional location for socializing with friends while enjoying a game in a secure and entertaining environment.
Pros:
- Provides a secure and hygienic atmosphere for game play.
- Hosts a variety of popular events, including Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, and Dungeons & Dragons.
- Boasts an extensive collection of tabletop games and gift items available for purchase.
- Most games are priced at $50 or less.
Cons:
- Does not seem to provide wheelchair accessibility or bike parking.
- Inventory of games for sale is not as vast as other retailers.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Extensive collection of tabletop games, including popular events such as Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, and Dungeons & Dragons.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: N/A – No information provided about food and drink offerings.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Most games priced at $50 or less, making it affordable for most customers.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Compact, well-illuminated, and tidy store with a secure and hygienic atmosphere for game play.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 9/10 – Hosts a variety of popular events and fosters a sense of community and inclusivity among customers.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.75/10 – Ideal for anyone looking for a secure and entertaining environment to socialize with friends while playing tabletop games. Not ideal for those who require wheelchair accessibility or bike parking.
- Does not seem to provide wheelchair accessibility or bike parking.
- Inventory of games for sale is not as vast as other retailers.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – Extensive collection of tabletop games, including popular events such as Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, and Dungeons & Dragons.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: N/A – No information provided about food and drink offerings.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Most games priced at $50 or less, making it affordable for most customers.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Compact, well-illuminated, and tidy store with a secure and hygienic atmosphere for game play.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 9/10 – Hosts a variety of popular events and fosters a sense of community and inclusivity among customers.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.75/10 – Ideal for anyone looking for a secure and entertaining environment to socialize with friends while playing tabletop games. Not ideal for those who require wheelchair accessibility or bike parking.
DID YOU KNOW: 🐀 – A Chicago-based company created a board game inspired by rats called Target: Rats, where players compete to become the rat ruler of Chicago? The game involves multiplying your rat family, building nests, and searching for Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and tamales in dumpsters. However, players must avoid cats, hawks, garbage trucks, and exterminators. The first player to build three nests and become Da Big Cheese wins the game!
Option #8. Critical Grind
Address: 852 Sharp Dr Unit L Shorewood, IL 60404 Phone: (815) 630-4235
Board Game Selection: Plethora of options
Food and Drink Options: Limited food selection
Atmosphere: Cozy and welcoming
Customer Service: Friendly and accommodating
If you’re seeking a distinctive and enjoyable time in the southern suburbs of Chicago, Critical Grind Board Game Cafe is the place to be! This cafe is owned by LGBTQ, women, and veterans, and offers a range of coffee beverages, smoothies, and refreshments, as well as a plethora of board games to play on-site or purchase. Although the food options mainly consist of various versions of toast, the real attraction is the chance to play games such as DnD and Trivia Night. The personnel are amiable and accommodating, making it an ideal location for a first date or family outing. However, keep in mind that there is no delivery or waiter service, and alcohol is not served. Overall, Critical Grind Board Game Cafe is the perfect spot for a casual get-together with friends or a one-of-a-kind date night experience.
Pros:
- Owned by LGBTQ, women, and veterans
- Offers a range of coffee beverages, smoothies, and refreshments
- Plethora of board games to play on-site or purchase
- Amiable and accommodating personnel
Cons:
- Food options mainly consist of various versions of toast
- Alcohol is not served
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – A plethora of board games, including DnD and Trivia Night, make for a unique and enjoyable experience.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 7/10 – Limited food options, but a range of coffee beverages, smoothies, and refreshments are available.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Affordable game rentals, food, and drinks make it accessible to all.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The ambiance is cozy and comfortable, with welcoming staff and a sense of community.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 10/10 – Owned by LGBTQ, women, and veterans, the cafe fosters inclusivity and hosts events and tournaments.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Perfect for a casual get-together with friends or a unique date night experience. Not ideal for those seeking a full meal or alcohol service.
Conclusion
- Food options mainly consist of various versions of toast
- Alcohol is not served
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – A plethora of board games, including DnD and Trivia Night, make for a unique and enjoyable experience.
🍔 FOOD AND DRINK: 7/10 – Limited food options, but a range of coffee beverages, smoothies, and refreshments are available.
💰 PRICE: 8/10 – Affordable game rentals, food, and drinks make it accessible to all.
🚪 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The ambiance is cozy and comfortable, with welcoming staff and a sense of community.
🧑🤝🧑 COMMUNITY: 10/10 – Owned by LGBTQ, women, and veterans, the cafe fosters inclusivity and hosts events and tournaments.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Perfect for a casual get-together with friends or a unique date night experience. Not ideal for those seeking a full meal or alcohol service.
Conclusion
Board game cafes in Illinois offer a unique and exciting experience for customers looking to enjoy a night out with friends or family. These cafes provide a fun and casual atmosphere where people can come together to play a variety of board games while enjoying delicious food and drinks. From Stay & Play Game Cafe’s Puerto Rican food and rum-based cocktails to Athena Board Game Cafe’s elevated versions of childhood classics, there is something for everyone. These businesses also prioritize safety, with many requiring masks and having staff wear masks. Additionally, many offer amenities such as wheelchair accessibility and bike parking. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of board games, these cafes offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. So why not gather your friends and family and head to one of these board game cafes for a night of fun and games? Thank you for taking the time to learn about the exciting world of board game cafes in Illinois.
