Despite economic times, America's Bar in Hoffman Estates expands

America's Bar in Hoffman Estates has weathered a slumping economy to the point that owner Richard Garcia is now looking to expand.

Garcia received unanimous approval from village trustees Monday to add a game room with three pool tables and three dart boards to the bar and restaurant at 2308 W. Higgins Road.

The room also will let patrons play bags, also known as cornhole, indoors during the chilly winter months.

“It's great for the area, because there's nothing like it, even in Schaumburg,” Garcia said. “We're very excited.”

The business is part of Barrington Square Mall which is undergoing major renovations. The game room is going into the former Hallmark space.

A memo put out by the village stressed no gambling will take place.

Garcia needed village approval because a bag board is considered an amusement device, much like a game table. There are village limits as to how many of such devices may be at a particular venue.

Though he still has his fair amount of regulars, Garcia said more and more couples are coming in, sometimes on first dates.

“It's a great place for people to hang out, as it was before,” Garcia said.

Trustee Gary Pilafas praised Garcia's business.

“Congratulations, you're growing your business where lots others are heading the other direction,” Pilafas said.

Garcia noted that over the past three years four major restaurants within about a mile of America's Bar have closed.

“It's been a tough road, a very tough road,” he said.

The game room will be ready this week.