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Serafin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Evanston, IL

About Serafin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Welcome to Serafin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.

Academy Interior

Our Philosophy

At Serafin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.

Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.

Family-Friendly
All Skill Levels
Expert Instruction
Supportive Community

Meet Our Instructors

John Smith

John Smith

Head Coach - Black Belt

15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez

Kids Program Director - Brown Belt

Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen

David Chen

Competition Coach - Black Belt

Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.

Class Schedule

We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!

Monday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMFundamentalsBeginners
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMAdvancedIntermediate/Advanced
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMCompetition TrainingIntermediate/Advanced
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMNo-GiAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMNo-GiAll Levels
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMFundamentalsBeginners
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMAdvancedIntermediate/Advanced
Thursday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMCompetition TrainingIntermediate/Advanced
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMNo-GiAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMNo-GiAll Levels
Friday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:30 PMCompetition TrainingAll Levels
Saturday
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMKids Class (4-6)All Levels
11:15 AM - 12:15 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
12:30 PM - 2:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
Sunday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels

Membership Options

Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Basic

$149/month

Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.

  • Unlimited Fundamental Classes
  • Access to Open Mat Sessions
  • Free Uniform (Gi)
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
Get Started

Premium

$199/month

Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.

  • Unlimited Access to All Classes
  • Access to Open Mat Sessions
  • Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
  • Competition Training
  • One Private Lesson Per Month
Join Premium
Most Popular

Family

$299/month

Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.

  • Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
  • Unlimited Access to All Classes
  • Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
  • Competition Training
  • Discounted Private Lessons
Join as Family

Other Options

Drop-In Classes

Try a single class for $25 or purchase a 10-class pack for $200.

Learn More →

Private Lessons

One-on-one training sessions starting at $75 per hour.

Book a Session →

What Our Students Say

Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.

Kayla Elladae

"I took an hour long train ride up to Evanston just to drop-in to the 6:30am class. This is by far the most beautiful BJJ school/gym I’ve ever been to. It is in a new shared space called Gym 1801. The gym is very modern and has locker rooms with all the amenities (towels, hair dryers, soap/shampoo/conditioner, etc.) The instructor and students in the class were both very helpful and friendly. There were also two other women there which was awesome to see. We started with a pummeling drill to warm-up then did about 30-40 minutes of drilling. We finished with some positionals then rounds of rolling. If you are visiting the northern Chicago/Evanston area you should definitely check out Serafin BJJ. The only downside is knowing what I’m missing out on when I go back to my home gym that’s in a warehouse :’("

Ramses Bugarin

"The absolute best instructor and coach I have worked with in my nearly 15 year career in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu!!! Jeff Serafin has an IMPRESSIVE wealth of knowledge of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, and all things combat sports related. I have learned more directly from him in the first few months of meeting him than I had for YEARS under "world champions" in the sport. His quality has attracted a group of fantastic people as his student base, making his gym a truly enriching and positive environment. The new facility here at 1801 Central St in Downtown Evanston, even while still not totally finished, is one of the most beautiful BJJ gyms in the world. I look forward to updating this review in the near future to "THE most beautiful BJJ gym in the world"."

Nader Tannir

"Serafin Jiu-Jitsu is a gem of a gym! Jeff is an OG of midwest Jiu-Jitsu. The jiujitsu is world class. The facility is spotless. The culture is very welcoming. I really am amazed at the talent and the atmosphere at this gym"

Adil Benjilany

"I’m a professional MMA fighter. I have been training with coach Jack for the past year. My jiu jitsu improved big time. Most of the guys in this gym are competitors which makes the level of jiu jitsu in this place is very high. I’ve been to so many places around the country and I have trained with some of the best guys in the game. This place is the hidden gem of chicago. Head Coach Jeff is very smart with high IQ, he very knowledgeable in Jiu Jitsu. He had a very good reputation in the jiu Jitsu community and he is a former pro MMA fighter as well. His resume speaks for itself. I highly recommend this place. Don’t look anywhere else."

Contact Us

Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!

Send Us a Message

Our Location

Address

1801 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201, USA

Hours

Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM