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Ava’s Wine Bar and Gaming Lounge

Ava’s Wine Bar and Gaming Lounge

Reviews Summary

The reviews show a polarized experience: many praise the great atmosphere, friendly staff, excellent wine selection, and quality food/drinks, calling it a perfect spot for relaxation or socializing. However, several criticize poor management, overpriced items, outdated or unavailable menu options, and inconsistent quality, with some calling the prices outrageous. While most highlight positive aspects, the negative reviews focus on operational and value issues, suggesting potential inconsistency in service or offerings.

About This Listing

Has Food
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

How Arcade Prize Games Work

Dive into the excitement of arcade prize games! Expect claw machines, skee-ball, whack-a-mole, or basketball challenges where you test your skills or luck to win tickets or prizes directly. Claw games require precise joystick control to grab toys, while redemption games reward accuracy with tickets to trade for plushies, gadgets, or trinkets at prize counters. Modern setups boast colorful displays and smooth mechanics, blending nostalgia with fresh fun. The thrill of winning and the vibrant arcade vibe make prize games a captivating draw in 2025.

Features

Has Food
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

7700 W 26th St

North Riverside, Illinois 60546

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 8AM-2AM
Tuesday 8AM-2AM
Wednesday 8AM-2AM
Thursday 8AM-2AM
Friday 8AM-2AM
Saturday 8AM-2AM
Sunday 8AM-2AM

Customer Reviews

Place is great, I came in for the machines but stayed for the food and drinks. The young lady made my wife and I a margarita and Tito?s with cranberry. It was made to perfection and I must say for the price was it wasn't bad at all. I definitely will be coming back!!!!

Such a fun little neighborhood place. It's perfect for North Riverside. The cocktails are really good and are appealing to eyes when they are made. The space has a nice outdoor area also that is more spacious than you would think. They also have a very complementary food menu that fits the drink menu and the decor.

The best spot to have a nice coctail as watch football. I highly recommend! Ill be here every Sunday!

Drinks, food and coffee, the best! Cute place and great atmosphere, check this place out! You won't be disappointed ??

This place has really good food,coffe..very nice and clean place..

This place is TRASH!! Half the things in the menu they don't have I ordered an espresso martini and it wasn't even espresso it was coffee. The staff was great but the management is terrible!! The menu font is so small you can barely read it. The machines don't pay out and the prices are insane!! All of their wine is corked or sour and for what this lady is charging that's absurd. My friend wanted to order a grilled cheese but couldn't because the bread was expired! Terrible way to run a business. Will not b

My wife and I really enjoyed this establishment for a nice little night cap. It was peaceful and the staff were very friendly. I will definitely return and sample more of their wine.

Drinks and food Way overly priced. I come for slots. So I tried a few drinks and the fries. They literally gave my 25 fries for $8.99. Smh. And they don't offer complimentary soft drinks for slot players. Not impressed

Friendly place to go gamble at but beware. Do not order any drinks. A Bloody Mary was $18.50..I don't know why the prices for alcohol are way out of line..Mixed drinks are also outrageous...I don't understand who they are trying to attract at a gaming business where they are also selling ice cream sundae and scoops???

Absolutely loved this place and can't wait to visit again. The wine selection is amazing and the owner is so friendly. Highly recommend!

I love this place! I need a place to just go sit and unwind and it was perfect. The server was really friendly and the food was great. I will definitely be back.

This place is one of those places made aesthetically pleasing but everything else about it is trash, food is old, out of stock of things. Management is terrible wait bc they don't have any and they steal from their employees . I'm surprise this place is still open! Trash trash trash I'm surprised health department hasn't came to check out their food.

Ava's Wine Bar is a really nice place. Very nice owners & workers. The food is great & the place is spotless. Very friendly & relaxing...try it, you'll definitely like it

I wish I could leave zero stars. The management of this restaurant sucks. Everything is incredibly overpriced considering what is being given to you, not good. They don't actually have half the items that are on their menu! This the one local business I wouldn't give a penny to, stay away!

Love the atmosphere, food, and drinks. Plus they have great happy hour specials! Can't wait to come back!

The best pizza in town and the best tennis player in the world ????????

This is a cute little place with a great selection of wine and bites to eat! I can't wait for their patio to be open in the summer.

Had the best caramel latte in this gorgeous place!

Such a great establishment. The service is phenomenal. The games are fantastic. The staff is amazing!

Absolutley loved this wine bar. Can't wait to come back!

Ava?s Wine bar has a great atmosphere and phenomenal service. I would recommend.

Awesome service. Great time. Fantastic wine

this is a girls night wine bar, so nice! Loveee

Great new addition to the neighborhood! Will definitely be back.

Nice spot. Service was great. I'll be back.

New business with potential. Unfortunately, poor management will do it a disservice.

Great experience. Highly recommend!

Great place, great ambiance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”

Why are arcade prize games so exciting to play?

Arcade prize games are a thrilling highlight in 2025! Claw machines, skee-ball, and ticket-redemption games like basketball offer a rush of skill and chance, with rewards like plushies, toys, or electronics up for grabs. Modern machines feature vibrant lights, digital scoreboards, and responsive controls, amplifying the fun. The lively arcade atmosphere, with cheering crowds and buzzing energy, makes every win feel epic.