I haven't been to a barcade where most of the games were free, so that was a really nice surprise. We originally just went to kick off a bar crawl, but they had trivia/Jeopardy going on, it was freezing outside (low 20s), and we ended up staying way longer than planned. It was actually a really fun time, and I'll definitely be back. The pizza looked really good too, but I didn't even see a kitchen so I'm very curious how they're making it. read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Doctor was at an auction at Tamarkin Camera and me and The Queen and BFF #1 were looking for a place to hang out to have a drink while waiting on him to wrap up. Unfortunately Machine was not open, which is downstairs from this place, so we went here. Usually there is a bouncer outside, covering both places, but no one was at the door so me and The Queen walked upstairs. The bouncer was upstairs and saw us come in, so he asked for ID. He explained that everyone gets card before they come in, which is not a issue for me. The overall vibe, for me, was definitely a frat hangout vibe. There are arcade games all over the place and cutesy names for beers and cocktails, like the Froot Loops (vodka, coriander honey, oat milk, shochu, saline, milk carton, and froot loops). Man I do not do cocktails and this is the reason why. There is too much going on in that glass for me to deal with. Prices for cocktails range from $14-$15. BFF #1 got a vodka soda for $13, but looking at the size of the glass, it was on the small side. BFF #1 said it was on the weak side. I was happy to hear that there was prosecco, so I got that. The Doctor showed up and got a beer. The selection of beers was limited from what I could see on the wall, maybe there was a list someone else behind the bar. The bartender was a really sweet, she was all smiles and kept calling me baby, which was so funny to me. I tipped her well because she was great on them pours of prosecco. We did not do food as we were heading to Club Lago for dinner and I didn't realize that they had food until I checked into Yelp and saw the online menu. The Queen actually went to a DJ set here with Roosevelt, I believe, and said it was a good event. Not a place I would normally hang out in, but I can see the appeal for folks in their 20s as I would definitely say outside of The Queen, the three of us were the oldest folks in there. Lots of people taking Instagram photos and posing or making short videos with those ring lights. I imagine it can get super loud when it is busy, but that is a vibe for some folks. I would say if that is your thing, this is the place for you. read more

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Such a cool spot in River North with great vibes. Perfect for hanging out. The service was quick when I went and it's free to get in and pretty much every game is free to play. They've got all the classics from Pac-Man and pinball to NBA Jam and NFL Blitz. There's also a solid selection of beers to choose from. Perfect place for your next date night! read more

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Due to deciding to have a spontaneous Chicago trip, my partner came across Headquarters Beercade after having dinner. He called beforehand to ask how much is the entry fee and how much is it to play - however, to our surprise, there was NO entry fee and it was FREE to play all the arcade games. This was a shock to us as coming from California, there is nothing quite like this. It was super fun, definitely a great place to hangout at! read more

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Headquarters is always a top choice for fun! Free arcade games, and their birthday package is extremely reasonably priced for open bar. The bartenders were working hard. My friends and I had the best time celebrating a birthday. Drinks definitely had alc in them and overall a really fun and lively atmosphere on a Saturday night! read more

SUCH a fun experience!! I cannot believe there is NO cover charge to play the many retro games and skee ball machines. You can order food and drinks at the bar, grab a table (or reserve it in advance, all of them were reserved by the time we got there on a Friday night at 7pm), and just have fun! They play old sci fi movies on the screens, and there's a literal fake car hanging from the ceiling. It did get super crowded around 8pm, but the vibes were immaculate! The truffle fries were so flavorful with a nice crispy texture. They accidentally gave us an extra portion, which was so kind of them! The chicken quesadillas were really stuffed and came with a yummy garlic aioli! Overall, a really fun and eclectic hang out space! read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Truffle fries - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The drinks here are amazing! I came for my friend's birthday party, and the vibe was perfect. There were tons of vintage games to play, and with her 90s theme, it felt like a blast from my childhood. The bartender was super helpful--after I told them my drink preferences, they gave me great recommendations, and every cocktail I tried was top-tier. We had pizza and salad, but the pizza was definitely the downside--it didn't taste great, which, to be fair, was on brand with classic school lunch pizza! Despite that, the atmosphere, great drinks, and nostalgic feel made it a fun experience. I'd definitely come back for the drinks and the overall vibe! read more

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A very fun bar with an arcade. They have pinball machines and old arcade games from my younger days. You order your drinks/cocktails from the bar area. I had a blast here and would definitely go back. Its a fun atmosphere and we went early enough that it wasn't too busy yet. read more

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It's a dress code and we had no idea found this place randomly and the doormen were nice to let us in anyways. Very cute spot has 2-3 bars I believe and all games are free. Drinks are creatively strong. Photo booths inside are $5 super cute for memories. Will return read more

whatever bartender closed last night saturday 7/11 with dark hair was nasty and rude and does NOT know how to talk to customers specifically black men. If this is someone you want representing your establishment then good luck. I was uncomfortable with how she talked to a man. Literally rolling her eyes and yelling because he asked for a straw. read more

Love Headquarters for the simple fact that they have arcade games in an adult establishment. Drinks are what you'd expect from any bar. Great selection of games to play/choose from, and it's very spacious so you don't feel like you're super crowded when you play. Service was decent. Again, sort of a typical bar set up. read more

I was so happy to see that this place is still amazing and basically the same as I remember from 8 years ago. All the arcade games are free and there is no cover charge or minimum food and drink purchase. They just want you to have a good time which is exactly what I had. Loved the variety of pin ball games which included Jaws, Stranger Things, the Mandalorian, and King Kong. They also had a good variety of arcade games. For someone who doesn't like sports or shooting games I was able to find classics like PAC Man, Frogger, Donkey Kong, and others. We spent a good few hours there. The beer selection was also good and had an oatmeal stout which was delicious. Only complaint was that a couple games weren't working and the floor was sticky but minor complaints compared to everything else. I'm glad this place is still open and hope they continue to be open for many years to come. read more

Came here for the first time and this place is so much fun!! Unique beer selections and seltzers. The best part of it all is no charge to play all the games! We had an amazing night here. Will definitely recommend and revisit. read more

I always have a great time when I go to Headquarters Beercade. They're open everyday, often pretty late, and I've never been charged cover to go in here. They always have 15-20 unique taps that rotate at the bar, and all different kinds of liquor if you don't want beer/cider/etc. I always try to order 2-3 drinks, as there's no cover charge. It's a great stop late at night if you're looking for something to do! Never had the food here before, but it looks really good. The ambiance is so cute. It's an arcade that has tons of pinball and classic arcade games - Many of which you might have seen in your local pizza parlor growing up if you are a 90s child. All of the games are well maintained, and most importantly, free (aside from 2-3 specific games, like the money crane game and pop-a-shot). My favorite games are Tapper, the Crusin' World Tour racing game, and Madden Football games from the 90s. The clientele at times can be a little sketchy (depending on the evening), so I'd just keep an eye out and make sure you watch all of your possessions. They ID everyone at the door, 21+ at all times, so no kiddos. Street parking is available outside of the bar. read more

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two words: free!!! play !!! for that reason, this place will always be a 10/10 in my book. a good selection of retro games (you only have to pay for basketball and i believe the claw machine ??) and the drinks and fun and inventive (froot loops and oreo shot in particular), though not cheap ($15 cocktails). a comfortable vibe appropriate for most occasions and the staff are pretty hands off (in a good way!) read more

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We've been to quite a few Headquarters locations, but this one had some awesome decor along with a slick cocktail menu. I ordered a " Blue kids on the Block" cocktail and was wowed by the flavor. The blue Redbull ice cube was top notch! Great spot to play some games and enjoy some great crafted cocktails. read more

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I saw a pic of this place in some sort of article about places to visit in Chicago and immediately texted my friend that we should go the next time I visit her in Chicago. Any place with a sign that says "don't grow up it's a trap" is my vibe. We found street parking about a block away and it wasn't overly crowded on a Friday around 5. We got drinks at the bar and wandered around. To our pleasant surprise, 99% of the games are just free to play. I am terrible at games but I was laughing so hard. They had lots of pinball machines, retro arcade games, and, my favorite, skee ball. They happened to be playing Labyrinth on the tvs, which is coincidentally my friends favorite movie of all time, and so random. The staff were all pretty friendly too. read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Best arcade for happy hour! We went around 5pm and enjoyed the variety of beers they had. Shout out to the bartender who served us well and gave great recommendations. If you're hungry, get the hurricane fries. I was blown away by how good they were (Japanese-inspired with bonito flakes and sweet soy sauce). The games were well-curated and I especially loved playing the different themed pinball machines they had. This is the perfect place for a friend gathering, date or even birthday. I'll be going again soon! -AT read more

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I've had the pleasure of hosting two team outings here this summer and both times we had great times! First the overall vibe is pure 80s nostalgia from decor which includes a crashed DeLorean above the bar to endless rows of classic arcade games all set on free play. The servers are great, cocktails are solid and the food is way better than I expected. Chicken Fajita Quesadillas are on point, both the Greek fries and Truffle fries were excellent, Hot chicken bao buns rocked the house and the spicy elote fritters melt in your both and set it on a slow burn fire in the very best way. So you've got great food and drinks in a chill vibe bar full of all your favorite video games - not sure it gets any better than HQ Beercade for an evening of fun with friends. read more

Very nice staff and service was good. Great atmosphere. The food is picture perfect and delicious. Will definitely visit again. Enjoy! read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - A picture perfect cheeseburger and fries enjoyed by this sweet gentleman. - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great beer at this place. I came here for funky brunch Justin Martin and the venue didn't disappoint. I love pinball, and there's plenty of it here. The food is not that great, I'd recommend eating elsewhere. But the beers were great, full bar, a few signature cocktails that were ok, and the pinball was on point. Walk up bar service, the food is what you'd expect for bar food. read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a FUN place! I really really loved the vibe here. Drinks were amazing - I got the friendship bracelet and it was quite a nice light and fruity beer! Games are free except for skeeball and basketball and darts which are in the back. Really easy to reserve a table as well. Would totally come back here for a chill night! read more

Headquarters Beercade is one of the first arcade bars in Chicago; it lines the space with 70+ vintage arcade games and pinball machines such as Donkey Kong, NBA Jam, Rampage, Frogger, Game of Thrones, and more! They are open 365 days a year from 4 PM to 2 AM! They have pop-ups and fun events during the year. They decorate in every nook and cranny so be sure to check it all out. The food is definitely great too! Not your run of the mill bar food. There was a umami in it that I was a fan of. Food and drink I got... Fireside Old Fashioned - Bushmills 10, Apple Brandy, Praline Liqueur, Angostura, Orange Oil ---- very strong but could taste the praline Partridge in a Pear Tree-Bombay Bramble, lime, Spiced Pear liqueur, ginger ale ---- sweet fruity escape in this Chicago winter HQ signature grilled cheese - miso-braised greens, hooks 4-year aged white cheddar, house-made black garlic aioli, served with tomato mostarda Jam ---- probably the most interesting tasting grilled cheese I've ever had. I really liked it. It has an umami that I wasn't expecting but fit so nicely. The flavors all complimented each other. Hurricane fries - Lime mayonnaise, HQ sauce (soy-ginger gastrique), bonito flakes, nori, sesame seeds --- again this I really liked. There was umami and I kept having to go back. I don't think I've ever had loaded fries like these before. If you like arcade games then this is the place for you! Most of them are free and it wasn't crowded when I went. The food was definitely worth checking out too! read more

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Always love headquarters. Great food, great drinks, fun games. Our server was Aliyah, she was also very attentive and a good vibe.

I've been to bars with similar concepts in NYC, but the main difference with this place over the others: offers food, and games are free. At others I've been to only drinks are allowed, and you do have to prepare to exchange your cash for quarters or tokens in order to play the games that you want. I wonder if they make up what they don't get in free games with food purchases? Either way, the combination of not having to go elsewhere to eat and not worrying about running out of cash meant that we spent quite a few hours here to catch up with friends we hadn't seen in a long time. Their pinball machines are very well maintained and if you participate, you can see leaderboards on a monitor above them. The rest of the bar had fun themed items, like a car coming out of the wall and a moonman. Pretty low key as far as service goes, when you need help go to the bar but otherwise we were left alone. I'd definitely go back to hang out again. read more

Visiting Chi for a Cubs game, and this place was around the corner from my hotel! What a great place! You walk in. and there are old skool (and a few new ones) games everywhere! After a few IPAs (4 Hands). I had some food! Two words....Hurricane Fries!! Definitely to die for! Burger was ok, but those fries! Again, I slip on food pics. I'll get better... read more

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The arcade games were fine. The food was actually gross. I ordered a grilled cheese (if you could called it that) and it was a cold disappointment. For $19 I expect more than one small slice of semi melted cheese. The sandwich reminded me of crap gas station sandwiches. The fries were cold and soggy. Next time I'll eat before I go. read more

Had a suuuper weird interaction at Headquarters this weekend.. I've lived in Chicago for many years and have gone to Headquarters dozens and dozens of times, its always a great atmosphere and a great time. This weekend was the first 'funky brunch' of the season, which I always appreciate supporting. We get there at about 4pm and ask for two cocktails. When we grab them we ask if we could also have two waters. We ask the guy bartender as we're still standing there with our drinks, he ignores us (doesn't make eye contact, doesn't acknowledge). We think okay never mind... we'll wait for the next bartender and not bother him. We wait for the lady to be done helping her customers, and as she walks over to us we ask if "we can we please have two waters". Now I kid you not she stares at us, again doesn't acknowledge us either, lets out a big SIGHHH and eye roll, says nothing, and walks away. At this point we feel BEYOND uncomfortable, wondering what it is we possibly have done wrong. Now mind you, I've probably been to a dozen funky brunch events, and usually to help out the bartending staff they'll set out large jugs of water for people to self refill. When the woman drops off the waters I say thank you, and mention that I'm sorry it must be annoying to have to refill people's water today. As we're leaving she looks at me and says, extremely loudly, "Are YOU saying I LOOK annoyed??" at this point, clearly looking for an argument? I look confused and honestly taken aback and say no... there are usually self-fill water stations at funky brunch? She starts rambling at us getting clearly heated and me and my friend are standing there SHOCKED. I'm trying to backtrack because I immediately feel like this is somehow our fault for asking for two waters? We left and I was super shaken up. My friend had to close her check over at that side bar after that interaction, and we were honestly scared to go over there again. I wouldn't even step foot on that side of the dance floor after that. We ended up leaving before the event was over... the whole interaction was really shitty and just put a bad taste in all of our mouths. I understand if you're short staffed or having a bad day.... but for someone just asking for waters and apologizing to you having to get them(??) doesn't give you the right to try to start an argument in the middle of the establishment you work at? Idk. The whole situation was super awkward and embarrassing... Also on top of all that- the initial guy bartender we asked for the waters who ignored us in the first place, ended up giving us the waters at the same time the woman did...?! By his lack of response and even eye contact we didn't know he was already taking care of us. We would have never bothered the woman in the first place then... but then again why are we worrying about who to offend when asking for a couple of waters at a sweaty, house music event? Idk... it's definitely making me second guess going to another Funky Brunch and unfortunately our whole crew agrees. We have sober friends in the group and something like this interaction just all together shouldn't have happened. Super awkward for everyone involved... Honestly Headquarters is usually a really fun, vibrant and welcoming place- hoping this time was just a fluke. read more

I've been going back forth on posting this because I did have a somewhat normal experience, but my interactions with one of the bartenders did completely ruin my time. A few weeks ago I attended a trivia night and had a great time with my friends, but that got ruined when I went to order a drink. After I ordered, I told the bartender to add the drink to my tab & he asked for my last name. I started to spell it out for him because my last name isn't common & it was super loud -- Normal, right? Well, I was immediately cut off and he snapped "just tell me your last name, god damn." I decided to ignore it cause idk maybe he's having a bad night. ~30 min later I went to get another drink. Unfortunately, it was the same bartender and I forgot he didn't like me spelling (silly me!). Again, as I was spelling my last name he cut me off. But this time he said "Jesus Christ, I'm not fucking dyslexic, just tell me your last name." Not only does that not make sense, because I'm not asking him to read, but it's also super offensive and rude. As someone with a learning disability, hearing someone speak this way is super disappointing. Anyways, the food was fine and the bouncer was really nice to me, but I won't go back again because of this guy /: SIDE NOTE: I tried to post this review on Google a few months ago, but not only was it taken down numerous times, I also never once got a response from anyone that works there. read more

We had a great time! This place was so fun :) Sam, at the bar, took great care of us and was eager to serve. And the staff accommodated our large party of 25 so well. Great customer service, great drinks. read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Love this place, so much fun and free arcade games. Sam is the best bartender here. So handsome!

This establishment is by far one our favorite places to frequent. In addition to the great upkeep of the pinball machines, one of the best bartenders in the business, Josh - is always so welcoming and provides the best service! He is an excellent bartender and one of the main reasons we are there so often!!! read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Headquarters Beercade is packed with free arcade games, pinball machines, a full food menu, craft can and draft brews, and an innovative list of signature cocktails to explore. The interior is decked out in retro iconography all around. This place is really fun and takes experienced dining in River North to the next level. Check out the menu items we tried below: HQ SICILIAN STYLE SAUSAGE PIZZA: House-made Italian Sausage, Roasted Tomato Sauce, HQ Signature Cheese HQ BURGER: griddled onions, machine pickles, iceberg lettuce, miso thousand-island, salt & vinegar fries PIRI PIRI GRILLED CHICKEN SANDWICH: South African piri piri glazed grilled chicken thighs, creamy potato spread, iceberg lettuce, machine pickles Suburban Beverage from Perennial Artisan Ales in St. Louis, MO: Sour Gose w/ Valencia Oranges, Key Lime, and Meyer Lemon, 4.2% Peeled Pils from Moody Tongue Brewing Company in Chicago: Grapefruit Pilsner, 4.5% They are open 365 days a year from 4pm to 2am and you must be 21+ to enter. Whether you want to stop in for a few drinks, play some games, and/or even enjoy a full meal, Headquarters Beercade is perfect for any night out. Game on! read more

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If you want to feel like a kid again but with cocktails come to this bar! You won't be disappointed! Drinks are amazing and the games bring you back to your child hood memories. Love this place. Go check it out. read more

Go here if you're looking for two levels of games including tons of old vintage ones, DJs spinning, and cute photo opps while not having to sacrifice quality drinks and food. They have every type of food from Piri Piri chicken sandwiches to a large variety of pizzas as well as multiple full bars and a full craft cocktail list! We ordered Notorious (cocktail)- Ilegal mezcal, melon de provence, lime, simple, luxardo bitter blanco, soda, cranberry caviar Santa Snack (cocktail) Patron silver | Apple Pie Liqueur | Lemon | Triple Syrup | Hard Cider HQ Cheeseburger (bacon added) with salt and vinegar fries Grilled onions, machine pickles, iceberg lettuce, American cheese, miso thousand island, salt & vinegar fries Chipotle Chicken Sandwich pickle-brined fried chicken thighs, chipotle cheese spread tapatio aioli, jalapeño honey mustard, machine pickles brioche bun, sea salt fries Fireside Old Fashioned Bushmills 10 | Apple Brandy | Praline Liqueur | Angostura | Orange Oil POP CULTURE absolut elyx | lychee | saffron | lemon | ginger beer | blackberries And thirst trap Tullamore Dew | Yellow Red Bull | lime | banana | frozen watermelon read more

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I was in town visiting a friend and we decided to visit Headquarters. It was a pretty cool place that had arcade games throughout. The best part is that the games were free!! I gave 4 stars due to the limited menu. I wanted to try an Oreo or pbj shot but didn't think that either was worth $9 each. I enjoyed my time here but would eat before coming. Check it out if you're in the area! read more

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Free arcade?!!! (Free skeeball!!) This place has around 30 arcade games. Lots of space to move or dance around in. I ordered the bubble Colada and it was nice and freaking. Sweet like coconuts and creme. I also ordered the Lily beer, which was a raspberry orange fruit ale. It tasted like a fruit roll up meets cider. Not bad! I stopped after one though. For IPAs, I really liked the "Don't Grow Up, It's a trap" beer! The can has some serious beer can art work on it. It's easy to drink! I did not try the food, but almost everyone else was ordering. (Hint, hint). The burger sliders looked yummy. Monday is industry night! 50% (I think??) off your bill. Ask the bartender for the exact discount, but I do know it was a significant special. I would 10/10 come here again!! read more

Headquarters Beercade River North - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Fun place to play retro games and have craft beer! All the games are free which is awesome and the beer selection is top notch. I will definitely be back! read more

I attended the soft reopening. Such a fun place! So nostalgic for those of us of a certain age. Old school movie references from movies such as Back to the Future, Neverending Story, and Willie Wonka. One of the bars has a replica of the back of the DeLorean from Back to the Future.  Old school arcade games throughout. Great vibes and service! Food: Burger is good. Portobello fries are decent even if you're not big on mushrooms. The chicken tacos and hurricane fries have a great presentation, but were pretty bland. The mayo over powered the flavor of the fries. I didn't taste the ginger, soy or lime. The soft opening version didn't include the nori flakes (at least not the ones I received or saw). Ceaser salad is as expected. Drinks: Cereal Killer- basically an Old Fashion, No Tan Lines- comes in a fun pink swan cup. Sweet nice flavor. Though it is said to contain coconut milk, it didn't have a milky consistency. Pop Culture- comes in an engraved copper cup with a skinny stem (think wine glass meets mojio cup) sweet with a hint of sour. Apple Jacke'd- an oatmilk based drink. Like a shot of Irish Cream with Apple Jacks. I may not be describing this the best. If you like creamy drinks (i.e. Irish Cream) and Apple Jacks, you'll like this. Surprisingly good. Takes Two To Mango- as a lover of basically all things mango (from the fruit itself to mango flavored items) I was quite disappointed by this drink. Not a hint of mango. I didn't taste like much of anything. Not sure if this was a bartender mistake or what... Blue Kids on the Block- Yum!! Flavorful, sweet, but not overly so with a splash of lemon. Recommend. Family Business- Decent flavor. Sweet. My experience with the drinks- sweet or strong. Still decent, but no real in between. I think the bartenders are new and working out the kinks. I'm pretty sure things will improve as time goes on (not that they're bad now). Overall, a great place for a date night or for a fun night out with friends. Go for the vibe. read more

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Went to the bar last week met a couple kids who openly admitted they were in high school? I don't know who the bouncers at this bar are but letting kids in who look that young is beyond ignorant. It was insanely obvious these girls were not even in college. My husband and I went back again for valentine's day earlier tonight and the same girls were there! I'm not sure if the bouncer is in a relationship with one of the kids but there's simply no way those children were aloud in the bar with a bouncer there. I wasn't planning on saying anything but after seeing them twice I figured I should bring it to higher management, something clearly isn't right. We love the Beercade and this has no reflection on our love for the bar, it's just after seeing this many under aged kids there we thought it was best to say something. read more