When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Stay and Play Game Cafe
Why Stay and Play Game Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Stay and Play Game Cafe in Chicago offers a unique blend of social gaming, delicious Puerto Rican-inspired food, and a welcoming atmosphere designed for friends and families to connect and unwind. Located in Irving Park, this game cafe invites visitors to explore its extensive collection of over 600 board games, ranging from classics to contemporary hits. For a modest $5 cover charge, patrons gain access to a variety of games, making it an ideal venue to gather for game nights without the hassle of hosting at home. The cafe's menu features Puerto Rican snacks such as tostones and pastelillos, hearty sandwiches including a highly recommended steak jibarito, and a selection of rum-based cocktails perfect to complement a long evening of gameplay. The interior design emphasizes a fun and interactive environment with natural wood tables, dark accents, and thematic decorations like playing cards, chess pieces, and crossword patterns decorating the space. This creative ambiance encourages social interaction and immersive entertainment. Whether you're a casual player or an avid board game enthusiast, the Stay and Play Game Cafe offers a comfortable, engaging, and fun destination to meet up with friends, share snacks, and enjoy hours of gaming excitement.
Here's what people think of Stay and Play Game Cafe
As of recent, Stay and Play Game Cafe holds a 4.9-star rating based on 406 reviews.
Customer reviews of Stay and Play Game Cafe overwhelmingly praise the welcoming atmosphere and the incredible selection of games, noting the great value offered by the $5 entry fee which provides access to over 600 games. Positive feedback often highlights the quality and uniqueness of the food menu, especially the Puerto Rican snacks and thoughtfully prepared sandwiches, as well as the well-crafted rum cocktails that enhance the overall experience. Visitors appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff who help guide game choices and maintain a fun environment. On the other hand, some negative reviews touch on occasional wait times during peak hours and a desire for more seating space to accommodate larger groups comfortably. A few customers also expressed that the noise level can rise significantly when the cafe is busy, which might hinder quieter gameplay sessions. Despite these minor downsides, the overall consensus remains strongly positive, with many patrons considering Stay and Play a rare and valuable gem in the Chicago gaming scene. The balance of fun, food, and community makes it a top pick for anyone looking to socialize around games.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Reyna Estrada
Honestly an amazing spot. I have been here at this point 4-5 times and it’s been great. I am not boricua but I’ve brought my friends who are, and they co-sign it 100%. I honestly just get the jibarito trio as an entree and it’s delicious. I’ve also gotten the cubano and the regular jibarito and it’s DELICIOUS. The drinks are good too, even the mocktails. They have a bunch of games to choose from. Also, the music is great, bc it’s a mix of salsa, bachata and other genres. I recommend this spot all the time. The owners are usually hanging around, and they’re super friendly. It’s 5 bucks to play games and I think they have a minimum you have to pay, but it’s well worth it.
Sophie Lin
Absolutely love this place! The food is 10/10 with large serving sizes and affordable prices. They have a large food and drink menu and all very delicious. Plenty of games everyone. Service was fantastic as well, with our server being very knowledgeable about games that would best suit our party size and giving quick instructions on how to play. I felt very welcomed and well taken care of. Can't stress enough how awesome this place is!
Jodi Meyer
Try the Jibaritos! They are an amazing Chicago/ Puerto Rico fusion that uniquely delicious! The great food, creative drink combinations, and delicious food are enough to bring us there, but the games keep us there for hours! Yesenia, Matt, and the team take great care of everyone. They are conscientious about food allergies and helpfully check ingredients upon request. Check the calendar for the many special events and opportunities to enjoy tabletop games with your friends and family. They have an amazing, searchable catalog to check out any game you may want to try. We will be coming back to this delightful, family-owned business.
Sasha
Went to meet up with friends and my first time won’t be my last. Gluten allergy options are great! Loved the cozy and upbeat atmosphere. Service was great, food was delicious, and the options of games are awesome!! Can’t wait to go back again soon. Appreciate the kindness from service staff to owners interacting. My friends and I had a great time and look forward to going again soon. 🩷
K
Great place! Fun to hang out and play. Large assortment of games to choose from and the people were very nice. Delicious food too. They have special events also. We will be back.
How to reach Stay and Play Game Cafe
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Website: None
Why Stay and Play Game Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Stay and Play Game Cafe with your friends? If you're searching for an engaging, lively spot to gather with your favorite people, Stay and Play Game Cafe on Chicago’s Northwest Side is an unbeatable choice. This venue combines old-fashioned socializing with modern entertainment through an extensive library of over 600 games, paired with flavorful Latin-inspired cuisine and refreshing cocktails. The ambiance is vibrant yet relaxed, making it ideal to unwind and bond over friendly competition or cooperative play. At only $5 per person for game access, it offers excellent value and an exclusive experience impossible to replicate at home, where you’d face the hassle of shopping, cooking, and cleanup. Whether it’s a casual hangout, a special celebration, or a long gaming campaign, this cafe nurtures connections and sparks joy. Moreover, their menu features Puerto Rican favorites like tostones and pastelillos alongside sandwiches such as the beloved steak jibarito and rum-based cocktails that revitalize energy for another round of play. This blend of great food, drinks, and games creates an unbeatable environment to rally your friends for hours of fun, laughter, and memorable moments.
What activities can you enjoy at Stay and Play Game Cafe?
The core activity that defines Stay and Play is its massive board game library, boasting over 600 titles ranging from classic staples to niche and new releases. Guests can easily find games suitable for any group size, skill level, or style—whether cooperative adventures, strategic battles, casual party games, or complex strategy challenges. This variety supports everything from quick icebreakers to epic multi-hour game sessions, making the cafe adaptable to any meetup pace or mood.
Beyond board games, the cafe pairs your entertainment with a flavorful menu of Latin and Puerto Rican snacks and meals. From tostones (crispy fried plantain slices) and pastelillos (savory hand pies) to the hearty steak jibarito sandwich, the offerings keep energy and spirits high during long game nights. Their drinks list, featuring carefully crafted rum-based cocktails, complements the food perfectly and adds a festive vibe to your gathering.
The cafe operates with a casual dress code in a comfortable setting suited for prolonged visits, so no one feels rushed or out of place. For those who prefer more active or sensory experiences, game nights often evolve into lively social events filled with chatter and laughter, a rare and welcome scene in the modern digital age. Whether you come for a few rounds or a full-day campaign, Stay and Play’s activity lineup makes it a premier destination for game enthusiasts and casual players alike.
Why is Stay and Play Game Cafe perfect for a group meetup?
Several features make Stay and Play Game Cafe ideal for group meetups. First, the sheer size and diversity of its game collection allow every member of your party to find something enjoyable and accessible, preventing any one person from feeling left out. Hosting your friends here removes the burdensome logistics of organizing game night at home, such as setting up tables, preparing snacks, and cleaning afterward—Stay and Play handles all that with professionalism and warmth.
The cafe’s menu is designed to cater to group dining easily, with shareable snacks and robust sandwich options ensuring no one goes hungry while playing. Their focus on Puerto Rican cuisine adds an exciting cultural twist that guests often comment on positively. Additionally, the bar’s cocktail offerings provide a relaxed and sociable atmosphere that helps groups bond over shared experiences, fostering deeper connections in a lively environment.
Physically, the space accommodates various group sizes comfortably, with seating arrangements conducive to interaction and strategy discussion. The venue’s accessible layout and casual style invite long stays, so your gathering can flow organically without constraints. Combined with attentive and friendly staff who genuinely enjoy creating a welcoming atmosphere, Stay and Play transforms a simple meetup into a memorable social occasion that your friends and family will eagerly want to revisit.
How does the food and drink enhance the Stay and Play experience?
At Stay and Play Game Cafe, food and drink are more than just sustenance—they are an integral part of the social and gaming experience. The cafe serves authentic Puerto Rican snacks and dishes that are flavorful, comforting, and shareable, perfect for groups seeking something different from typical pub fare. Their tostones and pastelillos are crowd favorites, delivering crunchy, savory bites that pair excellently with the lively ambiance.
The menu’s star is the steak jibarito, a sandwich made with tender steak and unique preparation that reflects genuine Puerto Rican culinary tradition. Vegetarian options also ensure everyone in your group can find delicious choices. The food arrives fresh and well presented, keeping the energy high and minds sharp for gameplay.
Complementing the menu is a thoughtfully curated selection of rum-based cocktails. These drinks are crafted to delight the palate and add a festive flair, helping to elevate the mood and extend the fun well into the evening. The combination of great food and drinks alongside gaming creates a holistic entertainment outing that satisfies taste buds and social needs equally, making Stay and Play a top pick for anyone wanting a full night out centered on fun, food, and friendship.
What makes the atmosphere at Stay and Play Game Cafe unique?
The atmosphere at Stay and Play Game Cafe strikes a perfect balance between lively entertainment and welcoming relaxation. Located in Chicago’s Irving Park neighborhood, it exudes a cozy yet vibrant vibe, filled with the sounds of laughter, playful competition, and animated discussion. The decor and layout promote sociability without feeling cramped, offering ample space for groups large or small to gather comfortably.
The clientele is diverse, including seasoned board game fans, casual visitors, families, and friend groups, all united by the shared joy of gaming and good company. Staff members are known for their friendly, easygoing approach and excellent service, creating an environment that feels more like a welcoming clubhouse than a commercial venue.
Additionally, Stay and Play’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility ensures everyone can have a great time. The combination of a full bar, casual dress code, and outdoor seating options broadens the appeal, adapting easily to different types of social occasions. This magnetic atmosphere draws repeat visitors who appreciate the unique community and energy the cafe projects, making it an excellent choice for a lively and memorable group meetup.
How accessible and convenient is Stay and Play Game Cafe for visitors?
Convenience is another strength of Stay and Play Game Cafe. Situated just two blocks east of the Irving Park Blue Line station, it offers easy public transit access, making it simple for people from all over Chicago to attend meetups without hassle. For those driving, the cafe provides options for street parking and a private lot, alleviating the common city parking stress.
The venue is thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring wheelchair access and accommodations for guests with different needs. The casual dress code invites visitors to come as they are, enhancing comfort and inclusivity.
Reservations are available to secure your spot ahead of time, especially useful for larger groups and busy weekend evenings. The cafe accepts multiple payment forms, including major credit cards and cash, making transactions smooth and straightforward. This combination of logistical ease and thoughtful amenities means your visit will be stress-free from arrival to departure, letting you focus entirely on fun and connection.
What do customers say about their Stay and Play Game Cafe experience?
Customer reviews consistently highlight Stay and Play Game Cafe’s winning formula of excellent service, inviting atmosphere, and electrifying game variety. With an outstanding 4.9-star rating from over 400 reviews, guests praise the attentive and friendly staff who go the extra mile to make every visit enjoyable. Many note the food’s high quality and deliciousness, especially the omelets, jibaritos, and Puerto Rican snacks, alongside the well-balanced cocktails.
Visitors appreciate the extensive game library that has something for everyone, enabling diverse groups to play and bond naturally. The overall vibe is described as fun, energetic, and engaging, with a community feel that encourages return visits. Reviews also commend the convenience of the location and the relaxed yet trendy ambiance.
In short, real guests confirm that Stay and Play delivers on its promise to blend great food, drinks, and gaming in a warm, welcoming space that is perfect for social gatherings with friends and family alike. This reputation as a top-tier game cafe solidifies its status as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable group outing in Chicago.