Surge Billiards opened its third Chicago venue on Monday at 1734 W. Chicago Avenue in the East Village section of West Town. The new space replaces the former Catholic Charities grocery store and adds a fresh entertainment option for residents who already enjoy the neighborhood’s thriving restaurant scene.
What the venue offers
The West Town outpost features more than two dozen pool tables and, for the first time in the chain, seven indoor golf simulators operated under the Sway Golf brand. The simulators are housed in a separate room and use Trackman software, a partnership facilitated by owner Wahib Merchant’s friend Asif Nathani.
Unlike Surge’s other locations in Logan Square and Albany Park, the Chicago Avenue site does not include a kitchen. Instead, patrons can order cocktails, coffee, espresso and pre‑packaged snacks. Merchant said the venue may host pop‑up stalls from local vendors, further integrating the business into the community.
Hours and amenities
Golf simulators open at 9 a.m. on weekdays, with pool tables becoming available at 4 p.m. On weekends the simulators start at 6 a.m., giving early‑rising neighbors a chance to practice before their day begins, while pool tables open at 11 a.m. The facility stays open until 1 a.m. on weekdays and 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. A daily happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, featuring half‑price pool and drink specials.
Community focus
Merchant emphasized that the space is intended to be more than a game room. “We think of billiards as a social hub,” he said. “It can host fundraisers, charity events, corporate parties, or just a casual hangout.” The owners hope the venue will serve as a gathering place for a variety of neighborhood events.
The building’s historic façade was retained during the renovation, and a mural by local artist Mauricio Ramirez now decorates the eastern exterior wall along Hermitage Avenue, adding a visual link to the area’s artistic character.
Background
Surge Billiards already operates two locations: one at 3716 W. Fullerton Ave. in Logan Square and another at 3241 W. Montrose Ave. in Albany Park. The West Town opening was originally slated for last year, but construction delays and permitting hurdles pushed the launch to 2026.
With its blend of classic pool, modern golf simulation and a bar‑style refreshment menu, Surge Billiards aims to give West Town residents another reason to stay local before and after dinner, reinforcing the neighborhood’s reputation as a vibrant, family‑friendly destination.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
