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Emporium Wicker Park
1366 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
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Wi
Review №1

Ive been eating at the Pasta Sisters in Culver City, so I was excited to find out there was one closer to me. This location is tiny! Theres only three tables and a few counter spots. This is not a great place for a large group.We went early on a Friday for lunch. There was already a line out the door when I got there. Menu includes everything from pasta, sides, sandwiches, and dessert. They also sell fresh pasta and the sauce.

Na
Review №2

Great vibe and service! Laid back and chill with a yummy selection of beers on a Tuesday night. Played some fun old school pinball and Rampage for a quarter! My favorite was the florescent colors by far..

Ti
Review №3

Been a while since we all have attended establishments we frequented. This is one that I miss a lot. Good drinks! Definitely awesome games! Cant wait to go back!!

Ar
Review №4

This location is absolutely outstanding. Really nothing but great experiences here, so I will be back. I can see why they have so many great reviews.

Ma
Review №5

I hosted my birthday here one year, and the bartender treated me to a free drink and wonderful hospitality throughout the night. They have a tree display during the holidays and fireplaces that contributes to a cozy, warm vibe. Their beer selection is pretty good, too.

co
Review №6

Fun place. Great space. Friendly staff. Great local music events, special DJ nights with some dancing. All video games and pinballs machines take tokens. Token dispenser is next to the ATM by the main bar. Not aware of any cover.

Ma
Review №7

What a fun way to spend a couple hours with friends..grab a bear and play some arcade games from years ago. Well maintained machines and the pinball machines play like new. Will return!

Al
Review №8

Nice place, but had to knock off two stars for the rude bartender (tall girl with glasses, dark hair, and a muffin top) who took my friends change and put it in the tip jar instead of giving us the change we asked for-- then proceeded to IGNORE us as we called out to her. I had to scream to the top of my lungs and get the attention of other patrons, which made the other bartender turn around and tend to us. Other than that, great place with cool vibes! Hopefully when I return there will be a more friendly bartender working.

Ra
Review №9

This place is very friendly and fun I recommend very happy place to be

Ba
Review №10

Great pinball spot dead in the center of wicker park. Good selection of pinball tables as well as classic arcade machines. If I remember correctly everything only costs one token, which you can get from a coin changer or in bags from the bartenders. Drink machine works good. This was my second time here and I enjoyed myself just as much as last time. Recommended!

an
Review №11

Great arcade with 15+ pinball machines including Twilight Zone, Adams Family, Theatre of Magic, and new Stern machines( Star Wars, Guardians, and Dead pool). All tap beers and tons of space. Volume of machines at a decent level.

Vi
Review №12

This place is really nice. I love the way it looks, and the atmosphere. The games was amazing. Classic arcade games. I really enjoyed myself. The band that played tonight was so cool. Another super cute! The only problem I have is the drinks. Their selection is horrible. Not to be rude but it was. I didnt like any of the drinks they have. They could do better. But other than that I would go back. It was a nice chill place. The bartenders was nice and kind. Fun place for friends to hang out at.

Wi
Review №13

Ive been to a few of the Emporiums (there is 1 in Logan square and another in West Loop). This one doesnt quite have the cool factor of the version in Logan Square, but its always fun, has great arcade games and a fun crowd at the weekend. Also you can buy food and bring it in to eat on the premises

Ma
Review №14

Great bar and bar staff. Lots if original arcade video games. Two bar locations and a full line if Local craft beers on tap. Live music in one of their rooms that have a stage. Nice ambience with graffiti murals all over the walls. I would definitely go back there again and again. Great for partys and special occasions with friends or coworkers.

JU
Review №15

Had a great time here with my friends. Had so much fun with the games and tokens. We also love the beer selection. It was total amazing night for us.

Jo
Review №16

Good fun. Bartender wasnt too engaging. When I asked what her specialty drink that she knows she makes amazing was she said vodka and soda. Ok, clearly you dont want to have a conversation at that point...cool. but drinks were cheap and all games cost $0.25 to play so it was a great time. Ill be back!

Ni
Review №17

Pretty cool place. Lots of open door space. Would be great for events. Bartenders are not very friendly so knock off a star for that. Could use more of a variety of games. Bit expensive.

Ke
Review №18

More bar than games. When I came, it was so packed there was no chance of playing any games. Choices are bare minimum, ski ball is a kids size. Not a fan of this location. Milwaukee (Logan Sq.) Is a million times better....lots of room to spread out and more than enough games to choose from.

Jo
Review №19

The service here is better than most.

Av
Review №20

Great staff and games available! Could use a couple more hard cider options but lots of beer options. Great time killer place!

Al
Review №21

Live music, pool tables, arcades, and a big selection of beer. What’s not to like?! Had a couple beers and played some pool with local people. Social atmosphere is friendly and had a good time in general.

Ro
Review №22

Miss Frances boy checking in yes my last show that was successful so Ill put it do another show the name of the show of CG s Brand Nubian showDjalnyte

le
Review №23

Awesome place with plenty of games options for the group.

Ad
Review №24

Recently expanded, so now they have pool tables, a larger bar, and more arcade games, in addition to the stage for live performances/DJ sets. They also have a number of beers on draft (in facet, I think they only have draft beers in addition to cocktails/spirits, which contrasts their original Logan Square location, which only serves by the can, if I am not mistaken). Its a good go-to spot for a relaxed & fun evening with friend(s) or whomever.

Ni
Review №25

Awesome place to spend a couple hours. They have pool now along with all the games youd normally expect from them. The beer selection is pretty good as well.

li
Review №26

Nice place with interesting video games, good music, an accessible bar, and space to meet and associate with friends. It’s a bit lacking in polish, perhaps, but that may be part of its charm. Street parking available.

Ja
Review №27

This place has an amazing selection of beer, plus a plethora of arcade games ranging from games from the 80s, 90s and today. Lots of pinball games as well. I would suggest coming here if you want to play games and drink beer.

du
Review №28

Got in there, they will asked to show an ID, make sure old enough to have alcohol consumption. They 2pool tables, lots of old school games (fighting, adventure, shooting or racing), lots of pinball machines, 2 basketball shoots. These games using special token that they provided.Atmosphere will be loud when they have live music on stage perform. Restroom will be smells before you entered it. The drinks was generic.

Ja
Review №29

This place was awesome open layout with a good variety of games to play. Went here to check out a group that played here the venue was spacious. They had a nice line up of craft beers as well. Good place to go and enjoy a night and listen to some love music.

Ma
Review №30

This is a great arcade bar. With live music, pool tables and all the games at just a quarter. The atmosphere here is pretty awesome! Love going here.

jo
Review №31

Overpriced beers/mixed drinks not enough variety or basics. 30% of the arcade games are broken. Byof is cool I guess!

Ge
Review №32

This place is so so so dope. Great food...tours...crowd... ambiance...the works

Al
Review №33

All the games I loved in one place. NBA Jam TE, Mortal Kombat 2, Street Fighter 2, Blitz 99 and the list goes on. If this place served food I would give it 5 stars. P.S some of the arcades were taking tokens without given credit.

Br
Review №34

I love this place. Video game cabinets, skee ball, pool, pinball machines, a full bar, and its open until 2am. Whats not to love? You can bring in outside food or have it delivered. They have great group specials if youre hosting an event. And theyre right in the middle of a great neighborhood. If you love any of these things, youre going to love Emporium!

Mi
Review №35

I really enjoy coming here. I dont feel like the drinks are overpriced and all of the games are only one token. It would be nicer if you could use quarters though.Also, they have a second bar but even when Ive been there when its very crowded, they havent had anyone working it.

No
Review №36

Emporium at Wicker Park has a great selection of both beer and games. Mini pinball games are available too. All the games are set up to play for 25 cents. is a secondary space with a large stage that has live entertainment for special events. Parking can be a problem.

Ma
Review №37

Always love emporium and bringing people new to Chicago here for cheap beer and games.

Lu
Review №38

A group of 6 of us walked in there for my friends bachelor party. We had coordinating jerseys on and the staff were awesome about it.Gave the groom a bunch of tokens to play with for free, couple free drinks, the bouncers were asking about the cool jerseys. Great time will def be back!!!!

Wi
Review №39

Emporium has loads of video games making for a fun atmosphere. They also have live music on certain nights. The space is huge if you’re looking to host a party, but it’s also a solid spot for a first date...or any number date.

Cy
Review №40

I always enjoy attending events here, but my favorite is the Vegan Market. I am never disappointed with those Vegan Markets. It is always organized, and filled with what feels like several hundred vendors from food to clothing to body butter. I love that Emporium has started these markets, and that they are stepping up to allow Women of Color take charge of those leadership positions. Too often Vegan markets and farmers markets are filled with white, upper class people, but the Vegan Market has an incredibly strong representation of WOC and POC small owned businesses. You can always check their websites for information about the next Vegan Market, but I am beyond thrilled to know that this local bar has stepped up to offer their space for thriving small businesses in the Chicagoland area.

Jo
Review №41

They had parks n rec trivia and good drinks.. Also a dope arcade.Good hang out spot

An
Review №42

Nice atmosphere. Plenty of old school games!

Al
Review №43

Super fun Bar with amazing live music! Definitely one of my favorite spots in all of Chicago!

Ma
Review №44

Love this place! Great vibe and lots of games.

Ca
Review №45

Great bar with a killer beer list.

Ro
Review №46

The band they had on July 5th around 8 or 9 pm was amazing. 4 stars because the bartenders would skip us and take drink orders from people arriving after us. Our yelling or hand signaling for their attention was ignored multiple times. It took us 20 minutes give or take a few to get a drink. I’ve been to busier locations and gotten a drink faster than here.

Sc
Review №47

Great spot to enjoy craft beer and play classic video games. Great lighting and the staff are boisterous. Mostly clean environment but beware of sticky buttons that may end up costing you a life. Live your childhood.

Th
Review №48

Great drinks, classic games, excellent craft selection, fun musical events.If you are looking for a fun beer-cade then youve found the right spot. I prefer the Wicker Park location personally.Staff is really nice and attentive.Ive had many fun times here and would definitely recommend checking it out.

Jo
Review №49

Update! Now with skee ball and photo booth!Do you like pinball, old school arcade cabinets, live local music, and good beer? Hope so, because emporium has all those things.A dozen or so pinball tables ranging from 90s classics like theater of magic, Adams family, and fish trails, to hot new machines like Star wars, guardians of the Galaxy, and game of thrones. They keep these machines in very good working condition. Sunday mornings can be a bit rough after the weekend drunks hack away at them, but they are quickly repaired.Live music happens every weekend, lots of free shows by great local talent. Lots of funky upbeat music!Tournaments happen regularly on pinball, mortal Kombat, and even good ol smash brothers.Beer selection is always rotating with a great selection of local specialty beers.Games run on tokens. All games including pinball are 1 token per play.Check out my scores and see if you can beat any!

Wo
Review №50

Happy hour is the time to go wild here. Loved the discount drinks and playing games with friends is a very fun time.

Za
Review №51

The selection is good having video and live entertainment simultaneously is always a unique concept, especially for the generations that didnt get to grow up with arcades being everywhere.However the bathrooms are absolutely atrocious nightmares going inside of one immediately makes you think that the janitors constantly take long vacations if there are even janitors.Overcrowding is obviously based on popularity of any good bar or restaurant, however since there is no cover fee at the door the biggest issue is literal overcrowding which can easily be handled by a bouncer or close circuit camera paying attention to the people density.This bar is what you call a long shot bar, that means its narrow and extremely cramped but it makes up for it in length over with. That being said it should not in any way shape or form take almost 10 minutes to go from the entrance to the door to the back bathroom or opposite wall corner arcade machines.The arcade machines also are kept up in a decent condition however they are rarely changed or updated and upgraded for different games.Live performances are always a plus in fact that alone almost warrants a 4 star in my book. But when the live performance stage is less than 4 away from people trying to play arcade machines, It shows me a lack of concern or acknowledgement for Room design and organization.The staff are friendly the drinks are cold but you need more than that in this day and age if you want repeat customers, The gaming novelty is fine and is a much appreciate it a static but that gets them in the door, but it doesnt guarantee a profit especially when you have no cover charge.

Ce
Review №52

Nice place with interesting video games, good music, an accessible bar, and space to meet and associate with friends. It’s a bit lacking in polish, perhaps, but that may be part of its charm. Street parking available.

Al
Review №53

Definitely one of the coolest in the area, very close walk for me and it’s become a favorite!

Ch
Review №54

Old school video games and pinball - at 25 cents a play! Great beer selection and several food places nearby.

Pe
Review №55

Great staff, fun atmosphere! Would DEFINITELY recommend..!

Gr
Review №56

What a place! Had a ball playing some of my old favorite arcade games from when I was a kid. Love the decor, saw a great show. Drink prices were very reasonable. Had a blast.

th
Review №57

Arcade for big kids... 80s and 90s kids. Epic throwback session playing Mortal Kombat II !

Je
Review №58

Great games great drinks great everything! I love this place

An
Review №59

Its fun for the novelty and nostalgia for around 30 min. Quickly gets old and boring. No real substance

T
Review №60

Beer is kinda pricey but they have a good selection. Great selection of old school video games, but some dont function correctly or are out of order. Most are okay, and price is reasonable. Lots of pinball!

Ma
Review №61

The games are a ton of fun, but the bartender clearly hated their job. The games take tokens only, and the token machine is cash only, so be sure to come prepared!

An
Review №62

Really fun bar with a great beer selection. 50 cent skeeball and basketball are awesome. May want to avoid the draft cocktail as it can be hangover inducing. Delicious but dangerous.

Sh
Review №63

Went here on a first date. It isnt as large as the other location, but still has games and a great selection of beers. There are also liquor and is in a very interesting neighborhood. There are also great food options around as well especially with the neighborhood restaurants. Was a good time, though it can be crowded and depending on the day, can have a very interesting crowd

Te
Review №64

Very fun place. Love the 80s music videos and old video games.

Jo
Review №65

Fun, game selection has increased and the drinks are ok

ni
Review №66

Super fun. Good beer. Good friends. Good bar.

Ka
Review №67

Love this place. Shout out to ROBOT RIOT! A fantastic evening of mechanical shenanigans graciously hosted by Emporium in Wicker Park. If you ever get the chance and you want to make and fight your own robots, youre in for a good time in a great place.

Br
Review №68

Good place to hangout, nice music on saturdays.

Ja
Review №69

Machines are only a quarter each (mostly) and the drinks are good too

Ke
Review №70

Bussing! Live music, games, and good Chicago people. My fav!

El
Review №71

Emporium Wicker Park of Shield was a disappointment when I first came here years ago. Dets is in my previous review. I may have come here before on the wrong days, because Monday and Friday has always been an excellent experience lately; not for anything else but for some really good drinks. Emporium Wicker Park Hours are the best time to come in those days (Monday and Friday), never fail. This has become one of my favorite, especially now that I am working in the city, few steps away.

Pe
Review №72

What a fun place to play retro games & channel your inner pinball wizard. Extensive local and regional brews. Also, make sure to get their Groupon for you first timers - what a great deal.

An
Review №73

Great draft selection and arcade games!

Oc
Review №74

Great place for a drink, live event, emo karaoke, and arcade games.

St
Review №75

Arcade in the city. Good times

Rh
Review №76

Nice nostalgic game room....for a younger crowd tho...they should switch it up some night and change the music to house music nights too!! 70s and 80s babies would love and flood the place!

Al
Review №77

Fun local spot with arcade game DJs and live shows at times. Reasonable prices.

Ro
Review №78

Love the arcade games, and they are pretty cheap to play. Nice drink selection.

Ma
Review №79

Great vibes, good drinks, nice staff. Live music is fun too when they have it!

Je
Review №80

This was such a cool bar. I had yet to experience a Bar-cade prior to my visit to Emporium. I wasnt sure exactly what to expect but I was left very impressed, the idea was well executed and the atmosphere was great!Despite no longer being in Chicago to enjoy it, Emporium defined my Bar-cade experience.

Ra
Review №81

Emporium is obviously fun for people who love arcades, but it’s also an awesome place to go if you want to see some good local musicians or just hang out somewhere with an excellent beer selection. There are tons of craft beers to choose from, many different breweries and beer types are represented. The only negative of this place is that it can get super crowded if there’s live music, so if you don’t want to buy a ticket to a show and just want to play games you might want to check their website in advance and get there early or go a different day. Overall, this is a cool and unique place to hang out. I’ve always had a good time.

Em
Review №82

Great selection of games. Gets really busy at night so I recommend going earlier if you want to hone your skills at Burger Time (really the only game that matters in this world).

X
Review №83

Sweet place to grab a drink and meet with friends

Ry
Review №84

Out of every arcade bar Ive been to this one has had the best beer selection. Also its great that the games are only one quarter each.

Ch
Review №85

This is my favorite emporium. They usually have some type of live music or DJ in the room next to the main bar every night of the week. The games are cool and they have a decent amount of drink choices. Prices are reasonable.

Ka
Review №86

Loved it my first time there was day before yesterday and I came back the next day. The place is full of old school games like pac man, Q-bert, Dig Dug, street fighter, different ping pong games, great music from okd school to new, just great vibes all around, live. Band,dance area, youll definitely have a great time and make sure you have your ID or you wont get in lol

Jo
Review №87

I saw a Grood show here and it was pretty great. As a venue it’s awesome. Didn’t get to spend too much time in the video game arcade but from what I saw it looks pretty varied in its selection. The only complaint I had was that it seemed kind of dirty. ....but then again it’s Chicago so it’s kind of expected.

Ja
Review №88

Bathroom wasnt the best thing Ive seen. But other than that. It was a gun spot. Played pool. And listened to the band.

bi
Review №89

This place brings back child hood memories

Br
Review №90

Friendly staff and clientele. Live music with good sound and acts. Arcades are super fun. Excellent selection of beers curated.

Sm
Review №91

Beer selection is awesome. Arcade selection is

Al
Review №92

Super cute! My friends and I stopped in before heading to the Ice Cream museum and we thought it was happy hour, but I guess they dont do that on weekends! Id definitely recommend sitting on the rooftop, especially during the summer because its really nice, the sun is out, you have a nice cool drink, what more could you want? I ordered something with rum in it? Or maybe gin? It came with some berries in it and I loved it. We also ordered some ceviche with taro chips and a cinnamon roll/morning roll type thing and we really enjoyed it. Id definitely recommend getting those things if you ever stop by.

Et
Review №93

Great arcade bar. Not very typical in the area!

Ca
Review №94

Lots of games, good beer, but the games arent in the best shape

Ty
Review №95

Amazing vibes and excellent personable bartenders. Prices are decent as well!

Ia
Review №96

Awesome collection of pinball machines. Decent beer list

Br
Review №97

Decent arcade bar. Its tokens only, but everything is only one quarter. They have a good beer menu and the staff are friendly. I wish they would rotate the games more frequently. The Logan Square Emporium has a better rotation. If youre looking for pinball, Logan Arcade on Fullerton had my favourite selection.

ki
Review №98

I havent played an old-timey arcade game probably in decades. I found my favorite, Frogger, and had a blast playing! Played a few other games from the Atari days, and it was amusing. Only had 2 skee ball lanes and they were always taken. People love those so they could stand to put a couple more in.It was a Saturday night, so it got pretty busy and it became a bit hard to maneuver on the side where the open bar was situated. Theres another bar in the other half of the building, but that was not open.The ladies room was lame with only 2 stalls, (but at least they had toilet paper! ) They had paper straws for the drinks and that was a pleasant surprise.Overall, had a good time with friends. Go earlier in the day if you are more interested in playing the games than just drinking.

Ti
Review №99

Go there, now! Never disappoints. Great location to other mad decent spots. Within walking distance of great eats. Will be one of your favorites, too.

Ed
Review №100

This was the first barcade Ive ever been to, and its amazing. Always has great vibes, cool people, and excellent assortment of beers to choose from. Highly recommended!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.4 Rating
  • Address:1366 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
  • Site:http://www.emporiumchicago.com/
  • Phone:+1 773-697-7922
Categories
  • Video arcade
  • Beer hall
  • Event venue
  • Bar
Working hours
  • Monday:5pm–2am
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:Closed
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed
Service options
  • Takeaway:No
  • Dine-in:No
Highlights
  • Bar games:Yes
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Great beer selection:Yes
  • Great cocktails:Yes
  • Live music:Yes
  • Live performances:Yes
  • Quiz night:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:No
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Happy-hour drinks:Yes
  • Spirits:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Dining options
  • Outside food allowed:Yes
  • Seating:Yes
Amenities
  • Toilets:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
Crowd
  • Groups:Yes
  • Tourists:Yes
Planning
  • Accepts reservations:Yes
  • LGBTQ-friendly:Yes
Payments
  • Debit cards:Yes
  • Credit cards:Yes
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