AceBounce, the Loop's New Ping Pong Spot, May Be Chicago's Coolest Rec Room Restaurant

On Tuesday, Chicago will officially get its second ping pong-themed bar and eatery in recent months when AceBounce opens the doors to the public at 230 N. Clark St. But make no mistake, the London import's first US location is different than the other new one in town, SPiN, in not just the food cred helped by chef Rick Gresh (more on that here, here and here), but in the vibe and the space itself.

Folks walk downstairs into what may be the coolest rec room they've ever visited—a massive, high-ceiling, multi-room space with a sophisticated, comfortable industrial chic vibe but with distinctive features imported from the UK as well as artwork produced by locals. AceBounce also has an alter ego, thanks to UV patterns painted on the walls and throughout the venue. When the black light hits, those patterns pop out, providing a different atmosphere. There's also a full 48-seat restaurant (1901 at AceBounce), a sleek 47-foot bar, another bar in a private room, and a hidden space to the right of the opening staircase with another ping pong table and seating that will provide an escape from the stimuli in the main room.

On the gaming: The UK import pledges ping pong for the people. Yes, competitive players will be happy with the 16 tables, but this is also a place to goof around, as CEO Adam Breeden doesn't want folks to take themselves too seriously —check out the neon red bull hanging behind the bar, and the entire space in the photos below.