Illinois Billiard Club

If the names; "Cowboy" Jimmy Moore, "King" Frank Oliva or Mr. William (Willie) Frederick Hoppe mean anything to you, you are apparently an aficionado of the sport of kings.  Not the one with the roses and 4 hoofed animals, the one with the green - Billiard Table Green (felt that is).

If you are interested in expanding your knowledge of the history and pursuit of the sport of pocket billiards, look no further.  One of the most unique places you will find is right here, quietly existing in Willow Springs on the North side of Archer Avenue.   You have probably driven past it hundreds of times.  

Filled with photos and memorabilia of the sport, site of numerous championships, visits from famous billiard wizards, home of antique (priceless) billiard tables, wholesome meals, and wonderful beyond words owners, I give you the Illinois Billiard Club/ aka / Jim and Bonnie's,  Jim and Bonnie Parker, Proprietors.

From their website:  "Today, as the oldest, most historically elegant, individually founded, owned and operated private billiard club in North America, the IBC and Bonnie's Dining & Banquets invite today's 21st century society to enjoy a fine meal, and, the fun filled game of billiards ... all presented within the charm, tranquility and grandeur of their 19th century country home"

The IBC is a private club that, for a limited time (effective February 2010) opens its doors at 5pm every Friday and Saturday evening serving dinner and allowing you to check out their billiards tables without membership.  Dinner reservations are suggested.      

Their website:   <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.illinoisbilliardclub.com&s=36a45e17a84f51d0974e07e6957f0a94459c506ede831bc1c47afe5b8841b5a2" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.illinoisbilli…</a>

There is a lot of information on the sport and on the facility.  Jim and Bonnie's provides catering and the facility is available for events.  We hold our annual Christmas party here and the space along with the food and service make the event quite special and memorable.   Check out the wedding pics on the website.  If you can convince your betrothed that this is the place to hold your wedding reception - invite me for giving you the advice.

If you visit in the near future, talk to Jim in regards to membership in the IBC.  I understand that there are some slots open.  If you enjoy billiards, the cost is minimal in regards to the quality of the tables, food and camaraderie you will find here.

Note that this is NOT a pool hall bar; this is a first class, family run, private facility for people serious about the sport (which also happens to function as a restaurant in order to market their services).  If you are in that "serious about the sport" category, it is more than worth a visit.