Emporium is Chicago’s most innovative entertainment destinations! We are Chicago’s original arcade bar + live events venue! We have the largest collection of games in the city across locations with everything from classic arcade games to pool tables to tons of pinball, foosball, air hockey, and more! Our bar is passionately curated with the choicest craft beer selections, an innovative cocktail program, and a huge whiskey list. We feature live DJs on weekends, game tournaments & lots more so we always have something interesting going on. Book your next group outing here whether it is a few friends celebrating a birthday or your whole company party.
Mixed reviews on staff attitude; some customers reported friendly service while others experienced rudeness and inattentiveness.
Game Maintenance
Many games were reported as broken or in need of maintenance, leading to frustration among customers.
Atmosphere
Generally positive vibe with a fun atmosphere, though some noted issues with crowding and noise levels.
Drink Selection
Customers appreciated the variety and affordability of drinks, although some found cocktails pricey.
Overall Experience
While many enjoyed their time and found it fun, several expressed disappointment due to service issues and game malfunctions.
CW
Colin Wehrle
Nov 17, 2025
5.0
Awesome place and the game are cheap to play, most games are a token or two.
EC
Elaine F Cook
Nov 1, 2025
1.0
Halloween the place was dead nobody dressed up. The doorman was very rude. I had a cocktail (one) claiming I had been overserved and was asked to leave by the bartender/manager? Nicholas was the doorman as was David they weren't working they were playing pool and I will keep complaining about this situation until it is rectified.
Thank you very much and I will be waiting to hear from somebody.
LJ
LaQuitta Jones
Oct 28, 2025
5.0
Went here with a friend and had a blast. It has a very nice vibe, the drinks were affordable & good. I’m definitely going back
KL
Kaiya Lee
Oct 28, 2025
3.0
visited on October 24th. the door guy was so sweet and welcoming, but one of the male bartenders had a very bad attitude, acted like we were inconveniencing him, then when i ordered a vodka ginger beer said “you could’ve just ordered a moscow mule”. i said i didn’t order a mule because i didn’t want the lime, and he just made a face. i also tried to order a shot of Fernet, and he gave me Rumpleminze. now don’t get me wrong, i love Rumpy, but i repeated myself twice and he still gave me the wrong thing, and it was warm too. i didn’t want to bother him again after the previous interactions so i drank it anyways.
the games need some TLC, but we still had fun playing them!! just tell your employees that the “idgaf” persona is played-out.
LG
Lynn Green
Oct 26, 2025
1.0
I visited Emporium on October 25th. There were two male bartenders and one female bartender working that night. The two men were great — no issues at all. However, my experience with the female bartender was disappointing. I’m not sure of her background (possibly white or Hispanic), she was wearing two pigtails braids. She acted unfamiliar with the menu. When I pointed out an item, she responded condescendingly, saying she couldn’t see because it was too dark but if you ever been to Emporium, you know it’s loud and you have to yell to even say your order so why not just read it so we’re not yelling at each other and saying huh 1000 times.(which she did the whole time🙄) She proceeded to not look at the menu at all.
First, if visibility is an issue, it’s surprising that someone working behind the bar wouldn’t be familiar with a few key menu items. (Please note the two men had no problem at all with looking at the menu)Second, there were lights around the bar, clearly intended for both customers and staff to read menus and prepare drinks. It didn’t make sense that she claimed she couldn’t see.
When we ordered, she seemed rushed, brought us the wrong drink, and then acted as if we had made the mistake. Her attitude came off as impatient and dismissive. At that point, I stopped engaging because she was being rude and unprofessional. She even asked, “Why are you looking at me like that?” and accused me of trying to start a confrontation, which felt unnecessary and inappropriate.
Overall, her behavior made the experience uncomfortable and took away from what should have been an enjoyable night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emporium Arcade Bar
What kind of games can I expect to find at Emporium Arcade Bar?
Emporium Arcade Bar offers the largest collection of games in Chicago, including classic arcade games, pool tables, pinball, foosball, air hockey, and more.
What are the opening hours of Emporium Arcade Bar?
The bar is open Monday to Thursday from 4 PM to 2 AM, Friday from 3 PM to 2 AM, Saturday from 12 PM to 3 AM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 2 AM.
Is a reservation required to visit Emporium Arcade Bar?
Reservations are accepted but not required to visit Emporium Arcade Bar.
Does Emporium Arcade Bar serve alcoholic beverages?
Yes, Emporium Arcade Bar serves a wide range of alcoholic beverages including craft beer, cocktails, whiskey, wine, and offers happy hour specials.
Can I host private events or group bookings at Emporium Arcade Bar?
Yes, Emporium Arcade Bar offers event space for private events and group bookings, suitable for birthdays, corporate parties, and more.
Is proof of COVID-19 vaccination required to enter Emporium Arcade Bar?
Yes, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter Emporium Arcade Bar.
What payment methods does Emporium Arcade Bar accept?
Emporium Arcade Bar accepts AMERICANEXPRESS, CASH, DISCOVER, MASTERCARD, and VISA.
Are there nearby dining options if I want to eat before or after visiting Emporium Arcade Bar?
Yes, nearby dining options include The Publican (a bar and American gastropub) and Rob Levitt (a seafood restaurant and caterer), both within walking distance in Fulton Market.
How can I get to Emporium Arcade Bar using nearby public transit or points of interest?
Emporium Arcade Bar is located in Chicago's Fulton Market neighborhood near popular spots like The Publican and The Betty cocktail bar, making it accessible and convenient to visit while exploring the area.
Are there other entertainment or fitness venues near Emporium Arcade Bar?
Nearby venues include Ballroom Dance Chicago Loft for dance classes and Monster Massage for relaxation, providing options for activities before or after your visit to Emporium Arcade Bar.