When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Snakes & Lattes Chicago

Why Snakes & Lattes Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Snakes & Lattes Chicago stands out as an exceptional place to meet up with friends, combining the thrill of board games with a welcoming dining atmosphere. Situated between the vibrant neighborhoods of Logan Square and Bucktown, this board game café offers a unique and memorable social experience. With over 800 board games available in their legendary game vault, guests can enjoy an incredible variety of options, from classic titles to the latest releases, ensuring there's something for everyone. The venue also features immersive private rooms, including the newly introduced Bloom Room—a whimsical and elegant space adorned with floral accents and unique board game artwork, perfect for intimate gatherings or special celebrations like birthdays and bridal showers. Beyond games, Snakes & Lattes provides a full kitchen and bar, allowing visitors to share delicious food and drinks crafted to complement their gaming adventures. The café fosters a lively community spirit, highlighted by events such as weekly Social Game Nights where guests can meet new friends in a fun, relaxed setting. Whether you're planning a casual hangout, an interactive date night, or a team-building event, Snakes & Lattes Chicago offers an engaging environment that encourages laughter, connection, and shared joy through play and hospitality.
Here's what people think of Snakes & Lattes Chicago
As of recent, Snakes & Lattes Chicago holds a 4.4-star rating based on 656 reviews.
Customer reviews of Snakes & Lattes Chicago highlight a generally positive and enjoyable experience, reflected in its strong 4.4-star rating from 656 reviews. Many patrons praise the café for its extensive and diverse collection of board games, noting that the variety caters to all ages and interests, making it ideal for groups with diverse preferences. Positive reviews often underline the welcoming atmosphere, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the quality of the food and drinks menu, which complements the gaming experience perfectly. Events like Social Game Nights receive favorable mentions for fostering a fun and easy way to meet new people through shared gameplay. On the downside, some negative reviews point out occasional issues such as wait times during busy periods, limited seating availability, or higher prices for certain menu items and game admission. A few guests have mentioned that the noise level can sometimes be high, which might affect those seeking a quieter environment. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus remains that Snakes & Lattes Chicago delivers a vibrant social hub where guests can enjoy unique entertainment and good company. The balance of fun, food, and community spirit makes it a distinctive destination for board game enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shaney Yarger
This is a fun place with lots of games to explore and good food & drinks. The decor is cool and the games are kept in an old bank vault. Staff were great and even brought us a free celebratory drink when they learned that my daughter had just chosen her wedding gown! They went above and beyond. We will definitely be back next visit to Chicago!
Rebecca Morris
I loved it! It's incredibly cute and so much fun! The food was delivered incredibly quickly and the staff was incredibly helpful. I would have given the atmosphere another star, but it got very loud to where I couldn't hear the other people at my table. People were having fun! Just know that it gets loud from other groups. They have private rooms but I think they're more expensive. Thankfully the staff was able to help my group with the noise and moved us to a quieter room. It was exactly what we needed and ended up having a much better time.
Yadi K
Snakes & Lattes is a fun, interactive spot with tons of games, good drinks, and tasty small bites. They host themed nights like trivia night, which are super popular—so making a reservation is a good idea. It’s a great place for date night or family time or friends get together. It can get a bit rowdy and wild with big groups so keep that in mind if you don’t like loud crowds. Even when it’s busy, the service is friendly and helpful, and you can find all their events on their website. Definitely worth checking out!
Molly
We had a fantastic experience at Snakes & Lattes and ended up going twice in one weekend! We first visited on a Friday night and were immediately impressed by the Board Game Vault, which features an extensive selection of games. From classics like Uno and Monopoly to more advanced/niche titles like Pandemic (in multiple editions) and The Mind, there was something for everyone. Chris, our Game Master, took the time to listen to what we were looking for and several excellent recommendations. We ended up trying a new game we’d never played before and had such a great time (even though we just barely lost the first night) that we returned on Sunday to play it again. On our second visit, we were running late for our reservation, but the staff was incredibly accommodating and still found us a great seat. We played right up until closing, and thanks to the team's hospitality, we were able to finish and beat the game!! It was a great end to the weekend and a testament to the welcoming atmosphere at Snakes & Lattes. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a unique and memorable night out. I’m already looking forward to going back!
Emily Butryn
Had a great evening here at Snakes & Lattes! The concept behind this unique weeknight activity is SO fun - as a board game lover, this is the perfect place to place literally any game you had on your mind. It encouraged us to not only play our classics, but to try games we have never heard of - I would love to come back with a larger group to try out different ones! The food was surprisingly decent, given that it's more arcade, bar-like food, and many of the chicken options were unavailable that night. Vibes were high, and I definitely recommend Snakes & Lattes if you're looking for a unique activity or a place to just zen-out!
How to reach Snakes & Lattes Chicago
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Why Snakes & Lattes Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Snakes & Lattes Chicago with your friends? Because it’s not just a place to eat or drink—it’s a vibrant social hub where connection, laughter, and shared experiences come alive. Located in the lively intersection of Logan Square and Bucktown, Snakes & Lattes Chicago combines the comfort of a stylish café with the excitement of a board game playground, making it the ideal destination to gather your friends or family. Whether you're seeking an entertaining night out, a unique venue for celebrating special occasions, or simply a warm and welcoming atmosphere to unwind, this board game bar invites you to create unforgettable memories. The infectious cheer and camaraderie you’ll find here stem from its well-curated mix of delicious, shareable food, an extensive library of more than 800 board games, and options like cozy private rooms for intimate groups. The inclusive experience promises to appeal to all ages and interests, ensuring everyone in your group will have a blast, making Snakes & Lattes Chicago unbeatable for your group gatherings.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Snakes & Lattes Chicago? The heart of Snakes & Lattes lies in its incredible collection of over 800 board games ranging from beloved classics to innovative modern titles. Whether you’re rolling dice, strategizing with allies, or competing in team challenges, the diverse game selection keeps the energy high and engagement constant. Beyond the tabletop excitement, the venue hosts special events such as their popular Social Game Nights held every Thursday. These evenings are designed to foster new friendships and mingling, inviting guests to play games while enjoying a lively, communal atmosphere. Additionally, trivia nights—like their themed Grey’s Anatomy Trivia—offer a competitive yet fun way to test your pop culture knowledge with friends, enhancing the interactive entertainment options. Snakes & Lattes also provides modular spaces for hosting larger meetups and celebrations, meaning your event can expand with ease if your guest list grows.
Why is Snakes & Lattes Chicago perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the layout caters to groups of any size. Beyond the bustling common areas filled with communal tables and gaming corners, the café features private and semi-private rooms, including the elegant “Bloom Room.” This enchanting space, adorned with soft pink hues and floral accents, creates a cozy yet stylish setting perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, or intimate friend gatherings, blending ambiance with exclusivity. The full-service kitchen and bar serve a menu thoughtfully crafted for sharing, complementing the social nature of board gaming and encouraging communal dining experiences. The staff’s expertise in recommending games and facilitating play enhances your group’s interactions, ensuring everyone feels included and engaged regardless of gaming experience. The venue’s friendly, inclusive vibe makes it easy to relax and connect, turning every meetup into a memorable event.
How does Snakes & Lattes Chicago create an unforgettable experience through its food and drink options? At this location, the culinary experience is designed to be just as compelling as the gaming. With a comprehensive menu featuring shareable snacks, entrees, and decadent desserts, there is something for every palate. The food is freshly prepared in a full kitchen, elevating the quality beyond typical bar fare, and perfectly pairs with a robust drink selection from their full bar, including craft cocktails and local brews. This allows groups to indulge in both great taste and great times without compromise. The menu’s share-friendly design encourages interaction, making the act of dining part of the social game experience itself. Whether you're refueling after an intense round of strategy games or simply enjoying casual bites as you laugh together, the food and drink amplify the overall atmosphere of warmth and conviviality that defines Snakes & Lattes.
What makes Snakes & Lattes Chicago stand out for hosting private events and celebrations? The café elevates private gatherings with expertly designed spaces that accommodate a variety of special occasions. Their private rooms, especially the newly introduced Bloom Room, offer a chic, playful environment that transforms typical celebrations into something extraordinary. These rooms are equipped with everything you need for a custom, immersive game night, paired with tailored food and beverage service to fit your event’s tone. Whether it’s a birthday, bridal shower, family reunion, or corporate outing, the venue’s flexible modular space can scale up to seat large groups, allowing you to dream big for your party plans. The staff’s attentive service ensures smooth coordination while giving guests the freedom to focus on fun and connection. The combination of aesthetic appeal, game library access, and culinary excellence makes it a prime choice for those looking to create memorable milestones surrounded by friends and family.
How inclusive and accessible is Snakes & Lattes Chicago for all kinds of groups? Snakes & Lattes embraces diversity in gaming tastes, age groups, and interests. The admission pricing is reasonable and family-friendly, offering discounted rates for kids 12 and under, which encourages family visits. Their library spans a vast spectrum of games, from easy party games perfect for newcomers to deep strategy titles for seasoned enthusiasts, ensuring everyone finds something appealing and engaging. The staff’s knowledge and willingness to guide guests through game options lower barriers to entry, making newcomers feel welcome and confident. Regular social events provide a warm entry point for those unfamiliar with board games to jump in and enjoy a lively community atmosphere. The venue’s physical accessibility and inclusive policies further ensure that anyone can join in on the fun, reinforcing its reputation as a premier spot for diverse group meetups in Chicago.
What ongoing community and social events enhance the Snakes & Lattes Chicago experience? One of the crown jewels of Snakes & Lattes is its commitment to fostering community through regularly scheduled events. Their Social Game Nights every Thursday evening invite visitors to unplug from digital distractions and enjoy face-to-face interaction over shared games and laughter. Such events cultivate new friendships and deepen connections within the local gaming community and beyond. Trivia nights, themed party events, and opportunities to engage with local game designers frequently enrich the calendar, providing fresh and exciting reasons to return. These gatherings transform the café from a simple venue into a vibrant social hub where strangers become friends and memories are made. Participation in these events, combined with the venue’s welcoming atmosphere, makes it an exceptional destination for anyone looking to combine fun, food, and friendship seamlessly.
Why is Snakes & Lattes Chicago considered a leader among board game bars and cafes in North America? Since its establishment in 2010 in Toronto, Snakes & Lattes has grown into the premier board game bar and restaurant chain across North America. Its Chicago location carries forward the tradition of blending exceptional hospitality with a passion for games and food. With a legendary board game vault and an innovative, carefully curated menu, the venue brings a multifaceted experience unmatched by other entertainment spots. Its dedication to an interactive and social environment has earned it high ratings and a loyal customer base, cementing its reputation as a cutting-edge cultural and recreational landmark. From casual meetups to grand events, Snakes & Lattes continues to redefine what a night out can be, making it an essential destination for anyone wanting to experience fun, food, and friendship all in one place. This leadership role also ensures continuous innovation and exceptional service that keeps guests coming back time and again.