Critical Grind Board Game Cafe

I can't say enough how wonderful our experience at Critical Grind was just a few weeks ago. We held a team-building exercise with the entire office and families and the opportunity to have bragging rights over a coworker was priceless for many. We got to see the competitive side of both our fellow officemates as well as their significant others. We had food catered in and they facilitated a table for the food in addition to our playing space. We got a great deal that included 3 hours of Game Master assisted gaming (I couldn't imagine sitting still for 20 minutes of instruction on how to play a game and this made it so EASY); Dana was our Game Master and she did an awesome job! It also included a drink at the cafe, but if you can only do one drink -- good luck. I had to go back for se

Roll for Vibe Check. That’s a Nat 20! Driving back home after a wedding up in the Chicago area, Emily and I were needing some caffeine to stay awake after a night of partying with the newlyweds and wedding party. We pulled up local coffee places relative to where we were and randomly decided on Critical Grind since it wasn’t far from our location on the interstate. As we pulled up and parked, I knew we picked a good place due to being a Board Game Cafe. The barista was really friendly as we spent time looking at the menu and I spent time looking at all the Magic the Gathering product and all the various other little things they sold up at the counter. I got my usual iced americano and Emily got her a chai tea latte. We also snagged some stickers and I got myself a pin and a little Dragon

We started visiting Critical Grind earlier this spring to play boardgames and it has become our favorite place for games and fun drinks & treats. What we didn't realize when we started going here is that we would make so many friends. We're a neurodiverse family and it's not always easy to find people and spaces that feel comfortable for us, but we've found real community and acceptance here. The staff are so friendly and set the example of welcoming all to the space. After just a few visits, they started calling us by name and knew our favorite drink orders. The people at TCG events and Blood on the Clocktower are really friendly and didn't make us feel left out when we were new to the games and still learning. The Clocktower group makes sure new folks are included and they offer lots of

Critical Grind is an amazing place to visit—whether you’re meeting friends, getting some one-on-one work done, or spending time with family. I’m not a coffee drinker, but my husband is, and he absolutely loves their coffee. I always go for their smoothies, and they are delicious every single time! The café is always clean, the staff is professional and welcoming, and the selection of board games is incredible—over 100 games to choose from! It’s perfect for business meetings, a fun day with the kids, or a cozy game night with friends. Whether it’s too hot or too cold outside, Critical Grind is one of our favorite go-to spots. Highly recommend for anyone looking for great drinks, great people, and a great time!

My friend and I talent for a local author book fair and it was small but cute. And the main lady helped us off and on as we were there. Showing us all they offer. Definally be back. Was also cool to know they have connections to a shop by us. They have so many events and things to offer. Didnt have any food yet so thats y no stars for it.