Young people in Toronto are finding a unique way to work remotely by logging onto their jobs from a local Chuck E. Cheese. This idea was conceived by 25-year-old tech and artificial intelligence worker Aryeh Bookbinder. He first visited the restaurant alone to try out the concept, calling ahead to ensure there were no misunderstandings about his intentions. Despite feeling some awkwardness, he found the environment to be positive and distraction-free, which led him to make the Chuck E. Cheese his official office space.
Bookbinder’s solo trial was successful, and he soon promoted the idea online. A group of 20 Gen Z and millennial professionals joined him on the last Monday in April, paying $45 each to cover the costs of food and transportation. This group found being around other likeminded professionals in a fun and nostalgic environment to be conducive to their work. Despite initial concerns about not informing their managers about their unconventional office space, they found themselves being more productive in the kiddie space.
The combination of work and play at a Chuck E. Cheese improved the performance of these young professionals. Katrina Lat, a 31-year-old account and strategy manager, found herself having a very productive day at the restaurant, attributing it to the fun and nostalgic atmosphere. Bookbinder also noted that the employees were shocked at how productive they were during their time at the Chuck E. Cheese, with everyone having their own workspace and taking breaks to enjoy the arcade area.
The success of the first “work-from-Cheese” event led to over 100 people signing up for the next gathering. Bookbinder plans to hold monthly events, with the next one titled “Fever Dream Co-working.” Despite the high interest, the location’s manager has requested that groups be limited to 20 people. Despite this limitation, Bookbinder is thrilled to see his unconventional idea for a remote workspace gaining popularity and helping workers perform better in their jobs.
The idea of working remotely from a Chuck E. Cheese highlights the power of a childlike imagination and the benefits of a fun and nostalgic environment. Bookbinder’s concept has proven to be successful in providing a unique and productive work experience for young professionals in Toronto. The combination of work and play at a restaurant known for its arcade games and pizza has created a positive and distraction-free environment for individuals seeking a change of scenery from their traditional office spaces.
