Mini-Golf indoors comes to Skokie

Summertime has always been a great time for one of my favorite outdoor activities, Mini-golf. Growing up, there were miniature golf courses almost everywhere ( like Drive-In movies, they have pretty much gone missing). I always loved and adored Par King, back in their Morton Grove days and now in Lincolnshire. But doing moni-golf is based on weather conditions isn’t it? Wait a minute! There is a new game in town! Well new to Skokie and Old Orchard, it is called Puttshack and is far more than “just” a mini-golf spot.

Last summer, Jane and I were in Oakbrook and enjoyed a dinner and playing 9 holes with the grandkids. They have now expanded their reach and are one of the new businesses at Old Orchard Center in Skokie ( next to Pottery Barn with an entrance facing the red parking garage). When you ride the elevator up ( or take the stairs) you will see a dining area, a bar and of course the golf course and their challenge tech games. They also have a private bar/dining area for private parties. It’s quite large and spacious.

Jane and I were heading down to the city to attend the opening of the 49th e.t.c. revue at Second City so we didn’t have time to play 9 ( there are several options as to 30 minutes or 60 minutes), but did partake of a few of their “shared” vittles. We had the Sweet & Spicy Brussel Sprouts: oven roasted Brussel sprouts in a  sweet chili and maple syrup glaze. Make sure you get the maple syrup glaze on each sprout- terrific! and because I love crab, we had a selection of chips and a warm crab, spinach and artichoke dip- to die for!

They have an extraordinary menu of both shareables and meals and their beer and wine count is huge. I will tell you that I enjoyed a vodka martini that was sheer perfection.

Back to the game(s). One of the games is their electronic challenge where you can have a group or party, but if mini golf is your thing, you can enjoy a challenge there as well. I know that one of the parts of mini-golf that is dreaded is “who is keeping score?” and “did you get that in 3 or 4?”. No problem here. The ball will keep your score ( so no cheating either).

As I said, we did not get to do it all at this preview but will return upon its official opening after June 18th ( my son’s birthday and anniversary) and play the game.

Again, the new location for Puttshack is at 4999 Old Orchard  E55 in Skokie,  847-860-7888   (next to Pottery Barn) park in red garage area.

visit www.puttshack.com/locations/skokie