If you ever find yourself tired of the typical bar scene, get ready to grab a paddle and a cold one because Chicago’s new ping pong-centric SPiN just upped the ante for innovative alternatives in the city.
SPiN might have originally made headlines for its famous co-founder, Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon, but after a successful start in the heart of New York City’s Tribeca the concept launched locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Toronto, and now Chicago.
The 16,000 square-foot “ping pong social club” opened its doors at 11 a.m. Friday at 344 N. State Street in River North.
SPiN prides itself on offering a fully-engaging experience. In other words, the venue hopes people put down their smart phones, have fun, and play some ping pong.
“Every detail has been designed to create an atmosphere that drives creativity, connection and community," SPiN CEO Pieter Vanermen said in a statement.
With two full bars, 20 state-of-the-art STIGA ping pong tables including a center court with stadium seating, three private lounges, handcraft cocktails, craft beers and a sustainable farm-to-table menu, the bi-level space welcomes anyone from ping pong “pros” to casual lighthearted play among friends.
An expansive patio sits on the ground level, which will have ping pong tables during Chicago's summer months.
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SPiN's lower-level space creates a comfortable, connected ambiance with communal-style dining tables, antique speakers and TVs.
Costs to play range from $15 per half hour (or $25 per hour) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or after 10 p.m. during off-peak hours to $29 per half hour (or $39 per hour) during peak times.
They are also on a mission to give back to the city, locally benefitting the REMIX Project serving Chicago’s underprivileged youth, as well as contributions to Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Parks Foundation.
