
Barcade
Step into a nostalgic playground with three floors of retro arcade games, craft cocktails, and a live DJ.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
DJ and lively atmosphere

Barcade
Best Time
DJ and lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a nostalgic playground with three floors of retro arcade games, craft cocktails, and a live DJ.
"Emporium Arcade Bar is an absolute must-visit for nostalgic fun mixed with a modern, energetic vibe."

🎯 Bring Your Crew!
This barcade is best enjoyed with friends for shared laughs and competitive gaming sessions.
💰 Token Value
Look for deals like $10 for 40 tokens; most games cost 4-8 credits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Retro Arcade Heaven
All three floors
Relive your youth with a massive collection of classic pinball, Skee-Ball, Ms. Pac-Man, and fighting games.

Live DJ & Music Vibes
Main stage area
Dance the night away to throwback tunes spun by a live DJ, creating an energetic party atmosphere.

Craft Cocktails & Beers
Bars on each level
Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers and expertly mixed cocktails to fuel your gaming adventures.

Multi-Level Entertainment
Across three floors
Explore distinct vibes on each level, from bustling game floors to chill bar areas and a performance stage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Game On: Plan Your Visit
Token Economy & Game Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Your Crew!
This barcade is best enjoyed with friends for shared laughs and competitive gaming sessions.
💰 Token Value
Look for deals like $10 for 40 tokens; most games cost 4-8 credits.
💧 Free Water Station
Stay hydrated with complimentary plain water available, a thoughtful touch.
🎶 Vibe Check
Expect a DJ playing throwbacks, creating a fun, nostalgic party atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Your Crew!
This barcade is best enjoyed with friends for shared laughs and competitive gaming sessions.
💰 Token Value
Look for deals like $10 for 40 tokens; most games cost 4-8 credits.
💧 Free Water Station
Stay hydrated with complimentary plain water available, a thoughtful touch.
🎶 Vibe Check
Expect a DJ playing throwbacks, creating a fun, nostalgic party atmosphere.
📸 Capture the Fun
Don't forget to snap photos with friends, especially near the graffiti art.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet playing games, so wear comfy shoes for a long night.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Emporium Arcade Bar is a highly-rated spot for nostalgic fun, praised for its energetic atmosphere, extensive collection of retro games, and lively DJ sets. Visitors appreciate the multi-level layout, good drink selection, and reasonable token prices, making it a great destination for group outings and dates. However, some reviews mention occasional game maintenance issues and a desire for more non-alcoholic options.
"Visited on a Friday night around 10pm. Easy to get in, was carded at the door. Im over 50 guess I look young, lol. Could hear the base bumping at the door, as you walk it there it was a DJ on stage playing the throwbacks!
I should of took more pictures. This place was a blast 3 floors of fun! A great variety of arcade games really old school games. I confirmed I still have the touch placing high score, lol!
I didnt eat there but the bar service was great friendly and fast."
Lana Rivera
"The games were really old and there were very few up to date games to play. It was fun playing classics like Skee Ball,Ms.Pac Man, Galaga, Time Crisis, Tekken, Mortal Kombat and pin ball machines. There were multiple pool tables and the bar had friendly and fast service. It would have been nice to have more mocktails available and food for people who don't drink. Make sure you come with friends to play with or it's boring. Almost every game costs a dollar to play so it gets pretty expensive."
Larissa Thornton
"Emporium Arcade Bar is an absolute must-visit if you’re looking for nostalgic fun mixed with a modern, energetic vibe. Spread across three massive levels, this place is more than just an arcade — it’s a full-blown entertainment experience.
From the moment you enter, you can tell this place is well-run. Security is tight and professional — they check IDs at the entrance, which adds a sense of safety. The venue itself is impressively clean, which is not always the case with arcade-style venues. That immediately made the experience more enjoyable.
Now let’s talk games — there are over 20 to 30 machines, including everything from classic pinball, basketball shootouts, Mario Kart, DDR, Fruit Ninja, and so much more. Whether you’re into rhythm games, racing, sports, or nostalgic button-mashers, you’ll find something that brings out your inner child. There’s even a pool table, vending machines, and a photo booth for extra fun moments with friends.
What really surprised me was the value: you can exchange $10 for 40 tokens, and most games cost just 4–8 credits per player — super reasonable for hours of entertainment. It’s not overly expensive considering the quality of the space and variety of options.
Aside from games, there’s a great selection of bar bites and drinks, plus free plain water, which is such a thoughtful touch when you’re staying for a while or moving between games. The bar staff are quick, friendly, and the vibe is upbeat without being too chaotic.
And don’t miss the huge stage area that hosts events and live music — the energy really shifts on performance nights, turning the place into a mini concert venue.
In short, Emporium Arcade Bar hits the sweet spot:
✅ Clean & secure
✅ Packed with entertainment
✅ Reasonable pricing
✅ Good food & drinks
✅ Great layout across 3 levels
Whether you’re with friends, on a date, or just feeling nostalgic for the games you grew up with — this place delivers. 💯 🔥
Best place ever, I'll certainly come back many times again!"
Jessica Tham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emporium Arcade Bar is located in Wicker Park, Chicago. It's accessible via public transportation, with several bus lines and the CTA Blue Line (Damen station) nearby. Parking can be challenging in the area, so public transit or rideshares are often recommended.
Street parking is available but can be competitive, especially on weekends. Some paid parking lots may be in the vicinity, but it's advisable to check local parking apps or consider public transport.
Many visitors opt for the CTA Blue Line to Damen station, which is a short walk from the barcade. Buses also serve the Wicker Park neighborhood frequently.
Yes, it's a well-known spot in Wicker Park. Look for the lively entrance with music spilling out.
Absolutely! Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option, especially if you plan on enjoying drinks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's typically no cover charge to enter Emporium Arcade Bar, but you'll need to purchase tokens for the games. ID is checked at the door for age verification.
Hours can vary, but Emporium Arcade Bar is generally open late into the night, especially on weekends. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours.
Most games require tokens, with prices typically ranging from 4 to 8 credits per play. You can exchange cash for tokens at designated kiosks.
Yes, Emporium Arcade Bar is an adult-focused venue, and you will be carded at the door. Typically, it's 21+ after a certain hour, but check their specific policies.
While you can't typically reserve game machines, you can often reserve areas for larger groups or parties. It's best to contact the venue directly for private event inquiries.
🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a fantastic mix of retro arcade games, including pinball machines, Skee-Ball, Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Time Crisis, Tekken, Mortal Kombat, and DDR.
Yes! There are usually pool tables, a photo booth, and sometimes even dance floors. Plus, a DJ often spins music, creating a lively party atmosphere.
It's a high-energy, fun, and nostalgic environment. Expect loud music, a buzzing crowd, and a vibrant party vibe, especially on weekend nights.
Reviews are mixed. While many games are in good working order, some visitors have noted that a few machines may need maintenance or occasionally malfunction.
Absolutely! It's a fun and interactive date idea, offering plenty of opportunities for friendly competition and conversation.
🍽️ 🍻 Food & Drinks
They offer a wide selection of craft beers, cocktails, and other alcoholic beverages. Some reviews mention strong and flavorful drinks at good prices.
Yes, they typically offer bar bites. Some reviews mention that you can also bring in your own food if you're having a party.
While the focus is on alcoholic beverages, free plain water is available. Some reviews suggest the mocktail selection could be expanded.
Prices are generally considered good, especially for the drinks being strong and flavorful.
Yes, some reviews indicate that you can bring in your own food, particularly if you are hosting a party.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the walls are adorned with vibrant graffiti art, and the lively atmosphere provides many fun backdrops for photos with friends.
Evenings offer a dynamic, energetic vibe with the DJ and crowd, while earlier visits might provide clearer shots of the game floor without as many people.
Generally, flash photography is permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other patrons and any specific venue rules.
The graffiti-covered walls are a popular choice. The stage area and the diverse game machines also make for interesting photo subjects.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities will work well. If you have a DSLR, consider a versatile lens to capture both wide shots of the venue and close-ups of the games.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check their specific age policies for daytime visits, as some venues have different rules. Be prepared for a lively environment, and consider focusing on games that are less intense or have simpler controls for younger players. The availability of free water is a plus for keeping everyone hydrated. Remember that game tokens will be an additional cost, so budget accordingly for the family's gaming fun.
👫 Couples on a Date
The lively atmosphere with a DJ playing throwback music adds to the energetic vibe, making it a great place to let loose and have a good time. Enjoying craft cocktails or beers while strategizing your next move on Galaga adds another layer to the date. It's a refreshing alternative to traditional bar or restaurant dates, offering a unique and engaging experience that sparks conversation and shared enjoyment.
💸 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays when crowds are smaller, potentially leading to less waiting time for games. While drinks can add to the cost, the availability of free plain water helps cut down on expenses. You can also explore options like bringing in your own food for a more budget-friendly dining experience, as suggested in some reviews.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Barcade Experience: More Than Just Games
Beyond the games and music, Emporium boasts a robust bar with a good selection of craft beers and cocktails. Reviews often highlight the friendly and fast bar service, ensuring you can quickly get back to the action. While some visitors note a desire for more mocktail options, the availability of free plain water is a thoughtful touch for those staying long hours. The venue also emphasizes cleanliness and security, with ID checks at the entrance contributing to a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons.
For those looking for a complete night out, Emporium Arcade Bar successfully blends nostalgia with a modern, energetic vibe. It's a place where you can challenge friends to a game of Mortal Kombat, enjoy a well-made drink, and soak in the lively atmosphere, all under one roof. The combination of classic arcade games, live music, and a well-stocked bar makes it a standout destination for a fun-filled evening.
Navigating the Games and Tokens
Most games operate on a token system. You can typically purchase tokens at designated kiosks, with common deals like $10 for 40 tokens. The cost per game usually ranges from 4 to 8 credits, which is generally considered a reasonable value for the entertainment provided. However, it's worth noting that some reviews mention occasional issues with games needing maintenance or sometimes taking tokens without starting. Despite these minor hiccups, the overall gaming experience is highly rated for its fun factor.
To make the most of your gaming experience, consider coming with friends to share the cost and enjoy some friendly competition. Arriving earlier on busy nights can also help you snag your preferred machines before they get too crowded. The diverse selection means you can easily spend an entire evening hopping from one game to another, reliving cherished gaming memories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit