Putt Shack- “it’s not just about the golf”

**** Recently, Jane and I had the pleasure of stopping by a new entertainment venue at Old Orchard Center in Skokie. We did not have time to explore this new attraction, but did sample a few of their “shareables” and enjoyed their libations ( drinks) and cozy atmosphere. We said we were going to go back and explore in detail to let you know what you can expect- tonight, we did just that. We were joined by our freinds Al and Vicki. Al is a golfer, jane was a golfer ( before elbow surgery) and Vicki and I are there for the fun. As it was, I was first, so if there were things to screw up, I showed the others just what to look out for. ( how is that for an explanation of why I finished in last place?).

There are four 9-hole courses and unlike other mini-golf games, you do not have to designate a scorekeeper or worry about where that little pencil is, or even the scorecard. The score is kept by a computer and each player can see what they have done as the game progresses. Unlike the rules in most mini-golf, once you start your turn, you continue until you have put the ball in the hole. That being done, the screen will advise the next golfer to place their ball on the black circle and take their turn. It is simple and fun with lots of trick shots that offer bonuses, so one needs to pay attention, have a drink ( oh yes, drinks are allowed on the course- but no food) and have fun.

The 9 hole game ranges from $9 ( kids under 12) to $14 (ages 13 and up). I didn’t see anything for seniors, but I would have to think that many will not be active for this game. One of the other features is their Challenge which is a 90 minute game that is designed for 1-6 players allowing several different games and even some courses. There are tables at each station, so your party can eat and drink as they play. This is $75 for the 90 minutes.

There is a bar ( and they also have a private room for large parties), and of course a dining room with plenty of seating. They do have a Happy Hour from 3p.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday with special offers on both food and beverage. Check out additional info at www.puttshack.com

Playing 9 holes of mini-golf worked up our appetites, so we stepped over to the dining area where we were greeted by our server Issy ( a/k/a Isabella). We ordered our libations ( Vicki and I Vodka Martinis), Alan a Blue Moon and Jane an Old Fashion ( something new inspired by Frank Meccia). We took a closer look at the menu which is for the most part “shareables” and a few “Hand Helds ( sandwiches) and some salads and some flatbreads ( a sort of pizza).

We ordered one of the items that jane and I had tasted on our previous visit,  The Maryland Crab Dip- crab, spinach and artichoke dip with house made chips- divine and easy to share. We also had the Greek Gyro Sliders- Mediterranean spiced lamb and beef gyro on warm pita, pickled red onions, cucumber, salsa, lemon and aioli.

Chicago Tailpipe- a spring filled roll with Italian beef, special cheese and horseradish with two dipping sauces ( $1 for every order is donated to a local charity), Mediterranean Lamb Skewers – marinated lamb, cucumber and some sauces with a kick, an OG Burger ( brisket,chuck and short rib patty, pecan wood bacon, roasted jalapeno cream cheese, chipotle aioli and house made pickled jalapenos- delish! with fries, and one of many flatbreads The Pitmaster ( pretty close to a good pizza ( Jane did not want the sausage flatbread and on this one she asked for no Jalapenos).

The only fault that we could find with the menu was the quantity of many “shareables”. The main part of PuttShack is golf. I think most people coming to experience the experience would be in twos or fours. We all think of foursomes when we think golf, and a date is two people, right? All of the shareables seem to have THREE servings, so I think perhaps that might be re-examined and perhaps offer a TWO and FOUR choice. We all felt that this might be the way to go.

As I have said over and over, “golf is not my sport”, but I had a blast and the evening is one that we will remember for years to come. In fact, we might be going back again, to do the Challenge! I love a challenge, don’t you?

KIDS MENU: they are covered at $10 : a main course, a side and a beverage all included and the grilled cheese looks terrific!