kibbitznest books, brews & blarney

We visited on Saturday night, knowing that this space is a warm and welcoming place to relax, grab a drink and play games/talk/read. Mostly everything was great except for the drinks. Unfortunately both of our drinks were pretty bad. I ordered a chocolate abuelita and my husband ordered a margarita. The drinks were extremely strong, to the point that we couldn’t finish our drinks because they were just not enjoyable. Also I didn’t expect the abuelita drink to be cold, as the Mexican drink it is derived from is hot* chocolate.

I spent $38 with tip for two drinks. I understand the financial climate we’re in (and I don’t mind splurging on a drink as long as it’s good..) but the quality of the drinks didn’t even warrant such a high price. Not sure I would return.

This is the third space everyone's looking for! I went recently for a few friend dates, and it is beyond the perfect place to just hang out, catch up with friends, and spend some good quality time together without the distraction of screens! The games are in loving quality, the atmosphere is cozy, and the staff is so friendly - it makes you want to keep coming back again and again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place is a vibe. Amazing.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Stumbled upon Kibbitznest. What a cozy little place to unwind. Mulled wine and an apple cider donut, a comfy chair, warm lighting, books and games...perfect!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

🙌🏼

The coffee is excellent, the vibe is great. A very cozy cafe.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

One of my favorite places in Chicago (speaking as a native). This is a long overdue review, but I've been missing this place a lot lately! It's a great place to have a coffee/cocktail and read a book, chat with a friend, play a board game, or just BE.

I love their no tech rule and the events they hold!

Highly recommend :)

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

What a hidden gem. My first visit to kibbitznest was in 2022, we ordered a nut/cheese plate and some fun cocktails, and played a board games in the cozy reading room. I remember they had Jumanji which was a blast. I’ve brought other friends and even go by myself from time to time to enjoy the vibe. The cocktails are amazing (I like the fig one 😋) and I remember the hummus plate was pretty good too. Highly recommend going with friends or alone, I went recently on weekdays and both times the place was packed til close! They hold some Halloween events too, which is a great reason to come out. Can’t express enough love for this place!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Cannot speak highly enough of this place! We held a book reading here and, not only is it the most beautiful space, they were also so patient and allowed us to stay past the allotted time because we’d hit some traffic arriving. The drinks were delicious, the staff were beyond kind and so attentive. I wish I could do every event here! Thank you Annie + team

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

An incredible experience! The staff was incredibly kind and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Sat at this place to eat my deep dish pizza from across the street as they had no space to dine in, had a great beer in a very nice bookstore setting with amazing service!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

He'll yeH

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I heard about this place from a coworker, so I went there from St. Louis to check it out.
The inside is huge, three rooms with bookshelves in each of them. I saw people reserved tables to hangout with friends, and people there alone to read and study. I was too full to eat anything but next time I’ll get the root beer float. I bought a book, and chatted with one of the bartenders. she was very friendly and attentive, unfortunately I forgot her name.
I’ll definitely go back the next time I’m in town and check out their events!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Do yourself a favor and GO HERE!! Staff is fantastic, great mule beverages, and a great space. Staff allowed my group to relax and enjoy pizza from across the street! Very accommodating and an excellent wheelchair accessible spot!!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Does anyone actually read here? I walked in to the Black Eyed Peas blasting and everyone drinking cocktails. It was too loud to read, and I was the only one with a book in hand. Maybe I came at the wrong time, but if the first and foremost thing you advertise about your business is that it’s for books, then there should be at least one dedicated space for that. Tired of places acting as if the books on the walls are there for anything but decoration.