Opening day at Dave & Buster’s draws big crowd
April 4, 2022
They were lined up ready to hit the arcade as soon as the doors opened today at the city’s first Dave & Buster’s location.
It has been years in the making at Lake Lorraine on the west side of the city, announced in 2019 and then put on hold during the pandemic.
“Eat, play, drink, watch is our slogan, so opening day, April 4, is the (NCAA men’s basketball) championship game and the advertising almost writes itself,” general manager Jarred Hillard said. “Come watch the game.”
Here’s a look at Dave & Buster’s by the numbers:
Capacity: 1,150.
While it sounds like a lot, there will be “ambassadors” stationed outside for the opening crowds to make sure capacity isn’t exceeded. You might be asked to wait outside if it is. At 19,000 square feet, this is smaller than locations you might have visited elsewhere.
Games: There are 88 games with 120 player stations, as some are multiplayer games. There are two types of games: those you play to win tickets and redeem for prizes, and those that offer some kind of experience such as driving, racing or shooting.
The TV: With a screen that’s 10 feet by 40 feet, Dave & Buster’s claims the state’s largest television. The plan is to carry all sports, including UFC. The company is a corporate partner and will carry all pay-per-view and non-pay-per-view fights.
The hours: And speaking of sports, they sometimes will dictate closing time. But generally, Dave & Buster’s is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday and 11 a.m. to midnight Wednesday through Saturday.
The menu: It’s the same as other Dave & Buster’s locations. Expect “American bar-style” fare, Hillard said. “Burgers, flatbreads, nachos, wings, one or two pastas, a couple salad options, a couple sandwiches.”
Specials: There are several reasons to stop in certain days and times.
Happy hour: Cocktails are half-off, and there are beer and wine specials from 4 to 7 p.m. weekdays and again from 9 p.m. to close Sunday through Thursday.
Half-price game day: Visit on Wednesday, and all games are half-price all day.
Special discounts: Members of the military and first responders receive 15 percent off food and nonalcoholic drinks for up to four guests. Bring identification.
The address: 2690 S. Lorraine Place, near the southeast corner of the lake.
