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F1® Arcade Opens in Chicago
August 14, 2026

F1® Arcade is the world’s first F1® experiential hospitality brand that launched its first venue in London in December 2022, followed by its first U.S. location in Boston Seaport in April 2024. F1® Arcade brings all the excitement, glamor and thrill of Formula 1® driving to the masses. It features full-motion racing simulators, reaction games, big viewing screens and best-in-class food and cocktails, with an electric atmosphere. This is social gaming like you have never seen before. An in-house tech team worked in collaboration with Formula 1® and Studio 397, a subsidiary of Motorsport Games, to create a new gaming experience leveraging Studio 397’s racing simulation platform rFactor 2. F1® Arcade is the first and only officially licensed social gaming F1® experience specifically designed for the mass market, supported by Formula 1® .

F1® Arcade Chicago joins the brand’s growing portfolio of locations across the United States, including Boston, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Denver, Atlanta and Las Vegas, as part of the company’s continued global expansion.

Opening Friday, Aug. 14 at 1 W. Grand Ave., F1® Arcade Chicago will mark the brand’s first Midwest location, redefining social entertainment by combining state-of-the-art racing simulators, elevated dining and cocktails, and unforgettable shared experiences in the heart of River North. The venue features 61 full-motion racing simulators, flexible private event spaces and the brand’s first-ever rooftop terrace.

Ahead of its highly anticipated opening in River North, F1® Arcade Chicagotoday unveiled its elevated food and beverage lineup for the venue, offering guests a first look at the culinary experience that will complement the brand’s immersive social racing destination. Featuring exclusive cocktails by acclaimed chef, bartender and author Julia Momosé, Chicago-inspired menu items, locally inspired ingredients and exclusive rooftop offerings, the culinary program will bring together F1® Arcade favorites with unique additions created to celebrate the city’s renowned food and beverage scene.

Julia Momosé – Photo Cred: Carol Fox & Associates

Adding a distinctive Chicago perspective to the beverage program, F1® Arcade Chicago partnered with acclaimed chef, bartender and author Julia Momosé, the creative force behind Chicago’s internationally celebrated Japanese dining bar Kumiko. Momosé’s work has earned global recognition, including the 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar, Tales of the Cocktail’s World’s Best Bar and Restaurant Bar of the Year honors and multiple placements on The World’s 50 Best Bars. For F1® Arcade Chicago, Momosé created two exclusive cocktails inspired by Chicago’s history, global connections and the collaborative spirit behind Formula 1®.

Wolf Point Cocktail – Photo Cred: Carol Fox & Associates

• The Paddock Spritz combines Haku Vodka, KOVAL Cranberry Gin Liqueur, Clover Honey, Moët & Chandon Champagne and lime. Inspired by Formula 1®’s paddock, the behind-the-scenes hub where teams collaborate and prepare for race day, the bright and celebratory cocktail brings together Japanese and Chicago influences through local spirits and Champagne.
• The Wolf Point pays homage to the historic location where Chicago’s three river branches meet, blending Suntory Toki Whisky, yuzu junmai sake, Green Chartreuse, banana, lemon and Angostura bitters. Named for one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the cocktail reflects Chicago’s history as a crossroads of cultures, ideas and experiences.

Alongside F1® Arcade’s globally inspired menu favorites, the Chicago location will introduce exclusive dishes and locally inspired additions that celebrate the flavors and character of the city.

The Grand Mini Hot Dog Flight – Photo Cred: Carol Fox & Associates