SPIN Chicago: The Ultimate Ping Pong Social Club

Let’s dive into the Ping Pong haven, SPIN, in Chicago, Illinois. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this place has you covered. As host Nate, who grew up playing the game with his little brother, put it, “I have never experienced Ping-Pong like this.” Spin offers multiple tables, a bathtub full of Ping-Pong balls and even professional players.

SPIN’s Ultimate Ping Pong Experience

Speaking of the pros, Nate had the chance to talk with Eric Owns, one of Spin’s pro table tennis players. Eric’s take on Spin is clear: “Spin is the place to be on a Friday night. There are so many things to do, there is a great DJ, food, drinks.” Eric added, “You don’t even need to be a great Ping-Pong player, enjoy the atmosphere, challenge one of the professionals, we will teach you how to play, we will challenge you, it’s a great place.” Spin started as a private under ground environment, evolving into the nine locations they operate today. The Chicago location boasts five to six pros on staff, offering a unique opportunity to learn from and challenge a pro.

SPIN Ping Pong Chicago — Source: Fun Across America on YouTube

Gourmet Food and Drinks

Before Nate took on one of the pros, he explored Spin’s food offerings, which were undeniably top-notch. Their chefs and bartenders serve up a world-class food and beverage menu, featuring Short Ring Bahn Mi Sliders, an unforgettable Nacho platter and a delightful Korean Chicken Wrap.

The specialty drinks menu provides ample options to quench your thirst during an intense Ping-Pong match. In the YouTube video, you can witness how Nate’s childhood Ping-Pong experience stacked up against Eric’s professional tour experience as they went head-to-head on the table.

To sum it up, Spin is a Ping-Pong social club where you can watch (and compete with) world-champion players and enjoy monthly local art battles, all while relishing a creative and delicious food and beverage menu. One unique aspect is the group vibe that Spin fosters, bringing together people on corporate outings, date nights or casual outings with friends and family to watch fun matches between pros or pros against guests, even offering Ping-Pong lessons. This adds a distinct element to the overall experience.

Excerpt adapted from Barry Zelickson’s special report for RePlay Magazine.