Why people are turning off screens and getting social at board game cafes
By Michelle Price
In the age of smartphones and endless scrolling, it’s rare to find a place where people truly unplug and connect. But step into a board game cafe, and you’ll discover a world where the digital age takes a backseat to the timeless joy of face-to-face interaction.
While most coffee shops are filled with solitary laptop warriors, board game cafes buzz with groups of friends and strangers alike, engaged in animated discussions and strategic gameplay. It’s a reminder of the simple pleasures of human connection and the power of a shared experience.
What is a board game cafe?
At its core, a board game cafe is exactly what it sounds like: A cafe that has a massive collection of board games you can play while enjoying drinks and snacks. Some are set up like coffee shops, and others are bars with a different twist instead of darts and pool tables.
Unlike a typical cafe, focusing primarily on food and drink, the central attraction at a board game cafe is the games themselves. They offer an impressive library of games, ranging from classic favorites like Monopoly and Scrabble to newer strategy games such as Catan and Ticket to Ride.
“People are looking for more experiential entertainment than ever before. People want to do something, to feel something. That can be mental, emotional or physical stimulation. You can feel all three by playing a board game. People aren’t going to traditional forms of entertainment anymore, like movies or restaurants, or they have become so expensive that they go for less. Small experience businesses like ours have stepped into the space,” explains Neil Goldberg, owner of Main St. Board Game Cafe in Huntington Village, New York.
“Board games are inherently social. They require players to be present in a way video games can’t. Players can work together or against each other in a safe, fun space that has its own rules and expectations. This makes gathering around a table for a game an incredibly unique and engaging experience,” says Anne-Marie De Witt, co-owner and founder of Fireside Games.
Some board game cafes charge a small fee for unlimited play, while others operate on a pay-per-hour model. No matter how it’s structured, the idea is to offer a comfortable space where people can come, relax and enjoy an afternoon or evening playing games they love – or discovering new favorites.
What do you do at a board game cafe?
When you walk into a board game cafe, expect to be greeted by shelves packed with every kind of board and card game imaginable. The staff is usually well versed in all the games and can help you pick something that matches your mood, whether you want lighthearted fun or something more competitive and strategic.
Once you’ve chosen a game, simply sit down and start playing. Board game cafes are typically designed for comfort, with large tables that accommodate groups of different sizes, making it perfect for gatherings of friends, families or even a casual date.
Along with the games, you can order drinks, food or snacks. Some cafes have extensive menus featuring coffee, craft beers and even full meals, while others focus more on light snacks like chips, dips and pastries.
Many cafes also host game nights, tournaments or special events, making it easy to meet new people or get introduced to a game you might not have tried otherwise. Some cafes also let you bring in your own games or dice for role-playing campaigns.
“Board game cafes are an easy place for a casual first date. People want something analog where they can get to know one another better, and board games themselves provide an easy icebreaker and way to fill awkward moments of silence,” says Drew Lovell, managing member and co-owner of Bonus Round Cafe in Chicago.
Who goes to board game cafes?
Everyone from die-hard board game enthusiasts to people just looking for a casual hangout spot are drawn to these spaces. Families, friend groups, couples on dates and even solo visitors frequent board game cafes.
According to Greg May, the owner and founder of Hex & Company and The Uncommons, “These offer a new type of community space. We’ve hosted groups as varied as backgammon and mahjong clubs, corporate team-building events and engagement parties, movie and TV shoots, cosplay showcases and LGBTQ dating nights.”
Board game cafes also attract different age groups. Younger crowds may come for party games or fast-paced card games, while older groups might enjoy nostalgic classics or more complex strategy games.
“We get lots and lots of dates, groups of friends and parents with pre-teen kids. We also get many kid’s parties who have aged out of bouncing places. We have mahjong and canasta groups, Dungeons & Dragons adult and kids programs. Jigsaw puzzle and murder mystery races. All people looking for a connection for a few hours that feels real,” explains Goldberg.
Tips for first-time board game cafe visitors
If you’ve never been to a board game cafe before, it can feel a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not a seasoned board gamer. The cafes and their employees are welcoming, but it helps to know what to expect.
Jane Behre first visited her local board game cafe in Washington, D.C., five years ago, and she now goes regularly to play Dungeons & Dragons with friends. “It’s usually a very chill environment, but be sure to pay attention to any house rules the cafe has. For example, at my local cafe they ask you not to reshelve any board games yourself and instead have dedicated shelves for returning games, much like a library,” she says.
“Also, don’t be surprised if there is a games fee added to your check if you choose to play games. Some cafes may have a flat fee for all gaming groups, but ours recently introduced a reduced fee for D&D groups, since we bring our own supplies and don’t use the cafe’s stuff,” explains Behre.
Board game cafes have hundreds of games, which can feel overwhelming, but don’t stress. Ask the staff for recommendations or go with something familiar to start. You can always swap out for a different game if your first pick doesn’t grab your attention.
Even if you have a few favorite games at home, a board game cafe is the perfect place to explore something new. With such a huge variety available, try to step outside your comfort zone and explore a different genre or playstyle.
“Games have come a long way. The variety of experiences, activities, themes, mechanics and emotions you can explore in modern board games is truly breathtaking. If you need help selecting a game, rely on the board game store or cafe staff. They’ll be able to ask you questions to steer you to a game you are sure to enjoy,” says De Witt.
Now go find the board game cafe near you to play
Board game cafes offer an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. It’s a great way to connect with family and friends in a low-stress environment that doesn’t revolve around screens. With a wide range of games to choose from, delicious food and a chance to meet new people, it’s easy to see why board game cafes have become such a popular hangout.
Michelle Price is a food and travel writer at Honest and Truly who almost has an empty nest. She loves to provide both the inspiration and the confidence you need to help get you into the kitchen and on the road to enjoy new flavors and experiences.