New entertainment tavern opens on Pearl Street in McHenry

A new entertainment tavern called Clubs will open at 3315 Pearl St. in downtown McHenry on Nov. 21. Owner Jamie Maravich describes the space as a hybrid venue that combines golf simulation technology with large screen televisions and a full bar. Maravich stated that the goal is to provide camaraderie and fun rather than focusing solely on sports viewing or golfing.

The establishment will feature two golf simulators that allow players to experience full 18-hole rounds on courses from around the world. Beyond golf, the simulators support more than 30 other activities, including skeeball, duck hunting, skeet shooting, baseball accuracy challenges, bowling, bocce ball, and zombie dodgeball. Maravich rents the simulators for $50 per hour for private parties.

Clubs will source its food from After the Fox, a restaurant located on Riverside Drive around the corner from the tavern. A runner will deliver food from After the Fox to Clubs, allowing patrons to order burgers, appetizers, and sandwiches. The venue will also stock Hostess snacks for purchase. Clubs includes a catering kitchen and offers the front of the tavern for general party rentals, with the back simulator area available as an add-on for private events.

Maravich, who has a background in finance, has pursued the business idea since 2019. She nearly secured a lease in December 2019 but pulled back, which she credited to divine assistance in avoiding the start of a new business just before the pandemic. The current location at 3315 Pearl Street has a history as an auto showroom and later as McHenry’s Wonder Hostess bakery outlet store. The building features garage doors that open directly onto Pearl Street.

The tavern will operate seven days a week and is open to children’s parties. Clubs already hosted its first baby shower for the family of another downtown McHenry business owner. Maravich noted that while the space is a bar, it is also a dedicated party venue. The front of the building is available for rent for standard events, while the rear section with the simulators can be included in party packages.

The business will close for Thanksgiving and on Christmas Day. It will also close early on Christmas Eve. Maravich is currently developing plans for New Year’s Eve, which may include a shortened evening event ending at 6 p.m. for those who do not want to stay out all night. The venue aims to be fully established before major local events such as the Super Bowl and the ShamROCKS the Fox St. Patrick’s Day festival.

Maravich is currently building the website for the business at clubsindoorgolf.com. The venue is also active on social media, with Facebook and Instagram pages listed under CLUBS McHenry. The space is designed to serve as a flexible community spot for various groups looking for an indoor recreational option in downtown McHenry.