Best Board Game Cafes In The US
Board game cafes have exploded onto the scene in recent years and are becoming more and more popular - with good reason, of course!
These cafes are a haven for gamers but can be enjoyed by anyone who has an interest in board games. You can find just about anything at these cafes, from Scrabble and Ticket To Ride, to modern hits like Gloomhaven.
And the best part? You can enjoy a tasty meal and refreshing drinks while you play. It's kind of like hosting a game night with your friends (except you don't need to worry about providing the snacks).
If you want to find the best board game cafes in the US, keep reading. We've traveled far and wide to test these places out and compile a list of our favorites that we know you'll love, too.
1. Snakes & Lattes
Snakes & Lattes is the place to be if you're interested in board games and a little friendly competition. And the best part? They have several different locations across the US, including Chicago, Tempe, Tucson, and Virginia Beach (which is currently being revamped).
The chain was established in 2010 and has been welcoming customers to play games and enjoy delicious food and drinks ever since. If you pay them a visit, be sure to try their burgers - they are out of this world! And with over 3,000 games to choose from, they easily have the most impressive game library on this list!
2. Main Street Board Game Cafe
Main Street Board Game Cafe is an absolute gem in Huntington, New York. The cafe is open daily and offers a cozy spot to enjoy over 300 board games - from classics like Monopoly to the latest and greatest games on the market.
For just $15 per person ($10 for kids), you can book your spot and enjoy up to three hours of gameplay. It's one of the best cafes for a family or group outing, and they often host amazing events. They even have a Dungeons & Dragons club for kids and teens!
So, whether you're a serious board game enthusiast or are just looking for a fun day out, Main Street Cafe is the place to be.
3. Well Played Board Game Cafe
If you're in North Carolina, get ready to grab your friends and head out to one of the best board game cafes in Asheville. Well Played Board Game Cafe is a haven, with more than 700 games to choose from! And if you're having trouble deciding (we can't blame you, you're spoiled for choice!), the cafe's Gamemasters will help you choose the perfect game for your group to play.
You can also pick from a range of comfort food, snacks, and drinks like local beer, cocktails, and hand-crafted coffee. For just $7 ($10 on weekends), you're also entitled to a full day of play, so be sure to book your table and enjoy!
4. Caverns & Forests
One of the best cafes we've ever been to has to be Caverns & Forests in Arkansas. With over 600 board games in their collection, they have plenty to keep you entertained. Plus, their knowledgeable staff will help you choose and master whichever game you pick.
While you're here, be sure to enjoy some mouth-watering Italian-style paninis, salads, local beer, coffee, wine, and a few sweet treats to top it all off! You can also join them every Sunday for Dungeons & Dragons One-Shots or every third Sunday of the month to experience Blood on the Clocktower.
Tip: It's important to note that no children under 18 are allowed in the cafe without adult supervision.
5. Zulu's Games
Zulu's Board Game Cafe in Bothell is an absolute gem for any gaming enthusiast, families, and friend groups alike. Since opening in 2016, it has become a well-known community hub and offers a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded gamers can come together. In fact, they host weekly board game groups and Dungeons & Dragons sessions for children aged 17 and under.
Their cafe also has an impressive selection of beer and cider that pairs perfectly with their classic American menu. In addition to their Bothell location, they have just opened a new store in Lynnwood, so be sure to check it out if you're in the area!
6. Bard & Baker
Another one of our New York favorites has to be Bard & Baker, which is located inside the historic Troy Record Building. This cafe was the first of its kind in the Capital District and is a truly unique experience for any board game lover.
With an impressive library of over 1,000 games, there's something here for everyone. Plus, the food selection is just as enticing as the game library! With sandwiches served on freshly made brioche and ciabatta and classics like macaroni and cheese and pizza bagels, their menu is the definition of comfort food.
FAQs
How do board game cafes work?
Board game cafes are a combination of the social atmosphere of a cozy coffee shop and the fun and engagement of being able to play board games with your friends and family. It's almost like having a rec room where you can come together with like-minded individuals and share your love for tabletop games. The only difference is you can also indulge in a delicious meal while you play!
Most cafes have a fee for a certain number of hours of gameplay, but some allow for full-day access for a once-off fee. Once you pay your admission, you can pick any of the games from their library and play to your heart's content.
Some cafes may also offer memberships or exclusive events, so be sure to enquire about these if you're interested.
Why are board game cafes popular?
Board game cafes have gained a lot of popularity because of their unique social experience and ability to bring the gaming community together. They combine the joys of gaming with a comfortable, communal atmosphere that encourages face-to-face interaction. And, with so many games going digital these days, this can be hard to come by!
When you visit a board game cafe, you'll likely find plenty of people who share your passion for tabletop games. From casual gamers to families and serious gaming enthusiasts, these cafes are a place where people of all ages can come together. Plus, it's a great way to discover new games to add to your own game room.
Can I buy board game tables for my home?
Yes, you can absolutely buy a board game table for your home. In fact, most hardcore tabletop gamers who host their own game nights tend to invest in a high-quality table for their game or rec rooms.
These tables are fantastic for serious and casual players, but they can take up a lot of space. Of course, if you live in a smaller home or an apartment, this may not be ideal. Luckily, Bandpass Design has created some of the best multi-functional board game tables that double as standard furniture pieces.
If you're interested in snagging a quality board game table of your own, be sure to check out our top table picks:
Final Thoughts
If you haven't already started planning your trip to your local board game cafe, then what are you waiting for?
Whether you're trying out new games or sticking to your favorites, there is plenty of fun to be had for everyone. Oh, and don't forget about the food! Sipping on a hot coffee or enjoying a light meal while you play is all part of the experience. Plus, you'll meet plenty of interesting people who you're sure to have a lot in common with. It's a win-win all around!