Pros 
Cons A Hole-in-One for Atmosphere & Entertainment
Puttery, located in Chicago’s West Loop at 932 W Randolph St, is quickly gaining recognition, boasting a solid 4.700000 rating. It’s not just miniature golf; it’s an experience. Several reviewers highlight the unique atmosphere, describing it as a blend of an old-style speakeasy with the added fun of mini golf. With available onsite services, wheelchair accessibility features (entrance, restrooms, and seating, though parking is not accessible), and a family-friendly and LGBTQ+ inclusive environment, Puttery strives to be welcoming to a broad audience.
The establishment offers two distinct 9-hole courses, “The Lodge” and “The Library,” each with its own character. "The Lodge" is praised for being open and airy, utilizing natural light, while "The Library" provides a darker, more bustling atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy unlimited play for $25 across both courses. The tech implementation for scoring is also a consistent hit, utilizing digital touchscreen systems that simplify the process. Beyond the games, Puttery also features a full-service restaurant and bar.
However, it’s important to note that many note an imbalance between the space allocated to golf and other amenities:
- Space Allocation: Several visitors point out that while the building is large, the actual mini golf area consists of only two relatively beginner-level courses. The rest of the space is filled with bars and lounges.
- Crowd Dynamics: While generally fun, “The Library” can get rowdy, and some reviewers noted dust, potentially triggering allergies.
Food, Drinks & Service: A Mixed Bag
Puttery's offerings extend beyond just putting. The bar serves a range of spirits, with cocktails like the "Tranquilizer" and "Margarita Compromise" receiving positive mentions. The restaurant serves up items like smash burgers, fries, and portobello sandwiches – generally receiving favorable reviews with some caveats.
The biggest point of contention among reviewers centers on the service. While staff members like Eddie consistently receive enthusiastic praise for attentiveness and going above and beyond, many others report difficulties:
| Issue | Frequency of Mention | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Service | High | Long waits to be served, difficulty flagging down servers, delays in receiving to-go boxes. |
| Disorganization | Moderate | Miscommunication regarding reservations, confusion about seating arrangements, unclear guidance from staff. |
| Limited Menu | Moderate | Frequent unavailability of menu items (especially pasta), restricted options. |
| Lack of Refills | Low | Water refills not offered without prompting. |
One recurring complaint is the inability to keep a running tab while moving between the different floors, which adds to the service frustrations. The food quality itself is generally acceptable, though some dishes (like the salsa) have been described as underwhelming.
Reservations & Accessibility Considerations
Planning a visit to Puttery requires some forethought. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for groups or special occasions like birthdays, as evidenced by a reviewer who successfully booked a celebration for their husband.
Puttery's accessibility features are a definite plus, with wheelchair accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating available. But potential guests should note the lack of wheelchair accessible parking.
Here’s a quick look at operational details:
- Location: 932 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
- Phone: (773) 915-6040
- Opening Hours: Consistent hours across the week, generally 11 AM to 1 AM on Fridays & Saturdays and 11 AM to 10 PM on other days.
- Payment options: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
- Kid-Friendly: Yes, with kid-sized clubs readily available.
Despite generally positive reviews, potential visitors should be prepared for potential wait times, even with a reservation, particularly during peak hours or when navigating between floors.
Playing the Game: A Tech-Enhanced Experience
At its core, Puttery offers a creatively designed miniature golf experience. The process is straightforward: grab a ball and club (kid-sized options are available), find the first hole, and use the touchscreen system to input player names (groups of up to four). Players simply count their strokes and enter the total into the system after each hole. The system then automatically advances the group to the next hole.
Reviewers consistently praise the unique and well-designed courses, specifically noting how they are adapted for an indoor space. The digital scoring system is lauded for its simplicity and efficiency. The format lends itself well to both casual play and friendly competition.
“The screen tech for keeping score was really cool.” – One Puttery visitor.
However, it's worth reiterating that those seeking a seriously challenging mini golf experience might find the courses a bit too beginner-friendly. The focus appears to be more on the overall social atmosphere and entertainment value than on a highly technical golfing feat.