**Disclosure: For the purpose of conducting a review, we received a complimentary experience at Pinstripes in South Barrington. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
During the great deep freeze earlier this year, I was stretching for places to get my daughter out of the house. One of the places that came to mind was Pinstripes. We had never been before and it seemed like the perfect opportunity for my daughter to expend energy--bowling and bocce, awesome! Plus, the menu had adult options, so I would not be relegated to standard bowling alley fare {not that that doesn't have its place.} Last week, I attended an event at Pinstripes in South Barrington and learned much more about this wonderful family venue and all it has to offer!
When you first walk into a Pinstripes, you will notice a venue that is light and airy with vaulted ceilings. Art graces the walls, there is a tidy reception desk, a bistro with a nice wine cellar and brick oven as well as a full bar--truly a departure from your average bowling alley!
The bowling alleys are quite the sight with comfy couches--perfect for lounging! I also love that you can order food from full menu and it will be brought to you. Ah, the choices--you can order a a Pear Salad with bibb lettuce, arugula, gorgonzola, craisins, candied pine nuts and pear vinaigrette--while bowling! Amazing! A day out with the kids also provides a treat for the parents!
Events, events, events!
During our visit, we were able to partake in a Pinstripes Kids Pizza Making Party (recommended ages 5-17). So much fun! At a Pinstripes Pizza Party, kids create their own pizzas from fresh ingredients. The 2.5 hour party also includes either bowling or bocce, shoe rental and Pinstripes socks. Besides the pizza, kids also enjoy a cookie and brownie platter and choice of soft drink, juice or milk. Parties are $25 per child for 10-30 children. There is an additional $75 chef attendant fee per 20 children.
Pinstripes also has a Games and Food option for kiddos 12 and under which is $21 per child (tax and service fees additional) for parties of 10-25. The package includes 2 hours of bocce or bowling and menu options of an 8" cheese pizza, chicken strips with fries, mini hamburgers and fries, peanut butter and jelly and fries or cheese panini with fries and a cookie and brownie platter as well as soda, juice or milk. The birthday guest is complimentary and will receive a Pinstripes cap. Fun!
Wait, there are more events:
In the past, I have driven by the Pinstripes in Northbrook and noticed a number of adults gathered on a patio. Looks like fun--but what are they doing? Now, I know! I learned that Pinstripes also specializes in other events including corporate gatherings, wedding receptions, weddings, ceremonies, rehearsals, showers, anniversary parties and more! The food is fresh and made there. Combined with the uplifting atmosphere, I can see why people choose Pinstripes for their events!
Everyday fun!
For the everyday visit, Pinstripes has our stamp of approval! Of course, parents can give a thumbs up for the comfy seating, glasses of wine and great food! Seeing your kids happy while bowling is always a plus! Bumpers and ramps make it easy for the kids to bowl if they are still learning. The bowling area is free flowing and not as cramped as standard alleys!The bocce area provides even more space to move around. There is also an indoor patio for year round enjoyment and more! Pinstripes has a special Tots Playtime from 10AM-12PM Monday-Friday where kids bowl for $5 and parents bowl free. What a great deal! **Check with your Pinstripes for availability and to see if you need a reservation. I do recommend making reservations ahead of time for a normal visit to ensure availability.**
Every Friday and Saturday, Pinstripes has live blues and jazz music. What a great place to kick back and relax!
Time for dinner!
We were treated to quite the meal at Pinstripes! Both times I have been to Pinstripes I have had the Avocado Hummus and Garlic Hummus and highly recommend the menu option! We also had the Grilled Vegetable Antipasto, Tenderloin of Beef Sliders, Shrimp Spinach Tomato Flatbread, Prosciutto Fig Flatbread, Chicken Avocado Club Flatbread, Pear Salad, Chocolate S'mores,Limoncello Creme Brulee and Frangelico Chocolate Cake. My favorites were the Shrimp Spinach Tomato Flatbread and the Prosciutto Fig Flatbread. I was amazed that the Shrimp Spinach Tomato Flatbread had quite the healthy amount of spinach. I always bemoan that restaurants do not provide enough vegetation. Not so at Pinstripes! The Prosciutto Fig Flatbread had a very intriguing taste--nice play between the sweetness of the fig and saltiness of the prosciutto! Great food!
A treasure trove of fun
We found Pinstripes to be quite the treasure trove of fun for both children and adults. I love, love, love that they have indoor bocce--so perfect for Chicago cold winters! But, there is so much more at Pinstripes like the great party options, live music and the overall atmosphere!
Pinstripes locations:
Northbrook, IL • S Barrington, IL • Oak Brook, IL • Chicago • Edina, MN • Washington, DC • Overland Park, KS
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