Chicago’s Replay Lincoln Park is a well-known arcade with deep artistic ties. It often hosts large pop-up themed events such as The Simpsons and Game of Thrones. And now fans of the sprawling fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings can rejoice! A pop-up bar themed after Tolkien’s beloved books will be there February 20th through March 23rd.
Titled ‘The One Pop-Up to Rule Them All,’ there will be custom fan artwork and selfie-primed areas all over the bar. This includes Rings Wraiths, the hobbits, a Balrog, and even Treebeard. The bar has teased that patrons will also be able to travel through the Mines of Moria and Minas Tirith. Taking photos before all the scenes are highly encouraged by the event.
The Lord of the Rings theme doesn’t stop at decor. The food, provided by Zizi’s Cafe, is also themed. These include Fried Po-tay-toes, Lord of the Wings, Frodo’s Dolma, Beef Lembas, Gandalf’s Corn Staff, Pippin’s Popcorn, and Onion Ring to Rule Them All. There are three bars within the venue titled The Prancing Pony, Minas Tirith, and Mordor with their own unique cocktail menu containing drinks such as Evenstar, Narya-Ring of Fire, and Vilya-Ring of Air.
To add to the fun, there are also over 60 free arcade games. The announcement on their Facebook page stated:
Starting February 1st, join Replay Lincoln Park on our most epic journey yet to Middle Earth in the One Pop Up to Rule them All! Grab your favorite hobbits (elves, dwarves, or wizards) and come explore sites like Rivendell, Minas Tirith, Mordor, and OF COURSE the Shire, all while sipping on delicious, custom spirits, and indulging in FREE arcade games as you begin your quest through [Lord of the Rings’] Middle Earth!”Â
The bar, which started in 2012 as an arcade bar, can be found at 2833 N. Sheffield in Chicago, IL.
Have you visited one of these bars? Let us know in the comments.