Athena Board Game Cafe

The food was so much better than I expected honestly. I'm sorry that this sounds like a slam to the place but from the pictures I figured the food would be low effort and quality. It was actually pretty good for what you paid. The server is also the front desk person and I believe also making the food but the person who was there on a day that we went was attentive and the food came out quickly. They have a good selection of games to play but of course you can always bring your own. I brought one that is usually not available and places like this and then we played some that they had available and it was fun. The only other customers were a table of three people and it was a very chill and fun atmosphere. Queer friendly. There is a $10 gameplay fee even if you bring your own games, but it's worth it to me to pay that because I love having places like this in my neighborhood. It's mostly disability friendly although the sink in the bathroom is a little high. The lights are track lighting and if that is an issue with you (light sensitivity) that's something to keep in mind. I would have been fine if I had just a baseball cap on to block out the direct lighting. Overall a great venue for an afternoon hang with friends to play board games.

I didn't get to try the food here, but I love that they have an espresso machine and milkshakes. Such a great place to hang out and play games with friends!

Fantastic spot to discover new games or play favorites with friends! Their collection is huge with a great diversity of game types/sizes, and the cover charge is very reasonable for what you get! The food is simple but tasty, and really you're here for the games first. The service is also very attentive!

I always have a great time playing here. There are so many games to choose from. The espresso drinks and milk shakes are always perfect. And the sandwiches are delicious.

This cafe has an excellent selection of games, good food and a friendly owner. She regularly hosts Learn-a-Game events where she patiently walks you through a game you might not have played before so you can keep expanding your game knowledge. The shakes are delicious and it’s great to be able to order a sandwich when I get hungry so I can keep playing. The place doesn’t get too noisy because it’s a smaller size than other places, but it’s a good space for meeting friends and playing in a large group. I love this place.

Super welcoming and cozy little board game cafe! Great to have in the neighborhood. The food is good and goes well with trying out new games - try the milk shakes and fresh guac.

A great place to meet up with old friends and get to know new people. Chill vibes and tasty food. What's better than games and a milkshake?

A very fun and quiet cafe for anyone interested in playing board games. They had an excellent selection and even some solo player games too if you just want to pop in. The staff is extremely friendly and I couldn't recommend it more!

So yummy and fun! Chi who works there is very cool and kind. Would recommend for unique game

UPDATE on 4/19/23: Athena is changing locations and is closed until the new space is ready. It'll stay in Rogers Park, but might not be open until Sept or Oct 2023. This is my home away from home. Great selection of games, good sandwiches and other snacks, delicious milkshakes and coffee drinks, and most importantly, an owner and staff who are hands-on. They sometimes play games with guests, lead a Saturday game event, and are there for any questions or requests that might come up (some game places are like the wild west with hands-off staff). Plus the people who go there are friendly and open to having you join their game or they're happy to join yours if you're looking for players. I love Athena.

This place is so cute! I only had time to drop by to check it out, so I can't wait til I can actually come hang out. They have soo many games in a cute space, and the staff I met were super friendly. I grabbed a milkshake and it was SO delicious that I started slurping it down before I remembered to take a pic. Other stuff on the menu looks good too, nice options for hanging out and playing. This spot is a welcome addition to the neighborhood!

Had a blast playing board games and enjoying delicious snacks with a friend for a couple hours. There were so many games to choose from and quite a few that we hadn't played since we were kids. Quite nostalgic!! Also, Patricia, the owner, is so welcoming and personable. Thanks, Patricia, for creating & cultivating a unique environment that prioritizes having fun & building community! Will be back soon!

Fun casual environment. I like that they have events you can participate in or you can walk in and play with your friends any game off the shelf. The owner and her daughter welcomed us. It's a comfortable place to play for as long as you'd like. They also have a small menu of drinks and snacks to keep you comfortable. I could hang here for hours! Great place to find community :)

Friendly and helpful owner with a good selection of games! Could easily spend hours here.

Super nice place to hangout. I went there with my hubby this weekend. It turns out to be a wonderful date. They have a good selection of board games. The lady works there is super helpful too. When we are hesitating what to play she provides us recommendations and help us with the rules. Definitely will come back

Super friendly place with food, coffee, other drinks, and an enormous selection of games. I hope to return many times.