Board Game Bars in Texas: Best Spots to Play & Drink

Looking for a fun and unique way to spend an evening out with friends or family in Texas? Look no further than board game bars! These bars offer a wide selection of board games, card games, and even video games to play while enjoying delicious drinks and food. From the cozy and artsy atmosphere of d20 Tavern to the bookcase room at Vigilante Gastropub & Games, there is a board game bar for everyone. At Asgard Games, you can find everything from D&D dice to Warhammer minis. Black Potion offers a huge selection of games to play and purchase, while Nerdvana is perfect for gamers of all ages. And at Game Theory Restaurant + Bar, you can enjoy a meal while playing a game with your group. So why not grab a drink, choose a game, and let the fun begin? Read on to discover our favorite board game bars in Texas!

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Nerdvana. With its extensive game selection, great brews, and private rooms for rent, d20 Tavern is the ultimate board game bar experience in Texas. It’s perfect for a fun night out with friends or a unique date night. However, if you’re looking for a more restaurant-focused experience, d20 Tavern is a great alternative with its impressive game library and classic cocktail selection. But overall, d20 Tavern’s unbeatable game selection and welcoming atmosphere make it the superior choice for board game enthusiasts.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🎲 GAME SELECTION: The variety and quality of board games available for play or purchase.
2) 🍻 DRINK SELECTION: The quality and variety of drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
3) 🍴 FOOD QUALITY: The quality and taste of the food served.
4) 🏠 ATMOSPHERE: The overall ambiance and vibe of the establishment.
5) 💰 VALUE FOR MONEY: The perceived value for the price paid, including any additional fees for game rental or other services.

Board game bars in Texas offer a unique and exciting experience for customers looking for a fun night out. When considering these types of businesses, there are several factors to keep in mind. First, the game selection is crucial. Customers want a wide variety of games to choose from, including traditional board games and unique ones they may have never heard of before. Additionally, the atmosphere is key. The vibe should be casual and welcoming, with plenty of seating options for groups of all sizes. Another important consideration is the food and drink selection. Customers want delicious food and drinks that complement their gaming experience. Finally, customer service is paramount. Staff should be knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating, making sure that customers have a great time. Overall, board game bars in Texas offer a fun and engaging experience for all types of customers, from families to friends to solo gamers. So grab a drink, pick a game, and let the good times roll!

Additional Criteria:

• Social Environment – The level of friendliness and inclusivity of the establishment.
• Unique Experience – The novelty and distinctiveness of the board game and bar combination.
• Accessibility – The ease of access for customers with disabilities.
• Customer Service – The quality of service provided by the staff.

Option #1. d20 Tavern

Address: 804 S Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76104, United States Phone: +1 817-717-6443

Social Environment: Friendly, inclusive atmosphere.
Unique Experience: Novel concept, impressive game selection.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom.
Customer Service: Knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly staff.

✅ Great beer selection ✅ Seating ✅ Restroom ✅ Wi-Fi ✅ Casual

If you’re in Denton, Texas, you simply must check out d20 Tavern, a board game bar that’s worth the visit. For a small fee, you’ll have access to an extensive collection of board games and party games. In addition, the bar boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, meads, and other beverages, and allows patrons to bring in their own food. The staff is both knowledgeable and friendly, always willing to suggest games or clarify rules. The ambiance of the bar is cool and artsy, with ample seating for groups of any size. Though it can get a bit noisy when crowded, the overall experience is nothing short of fantastic. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a unique date night, d20 Tavern is the perfect spot.

Pros:

• Huge variety of board games
• Knowledgeable and friendly staff
• Great selection of drinks, including mead and gluten-free options
• Spacious and clean environment

Cons:

• Limited food options (bring your own or order nearby)
• Can get loud when crowded

Option #2. Vigilante Gastropub & Games

Address: 112 W Oak St, Denton, TX 76201, United States Phone: +1 940-323-9577

Social Environment: LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safespace
Unique Experience: Board gamers dream, Private secret rooms
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Customer Service: Attentive and friendly staff, Helpful game masters

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance ✅ Free Wi-Fi

Vigilante Gastropub & Games is an undiscovered treasure in Austin, Texas that provides a one-of-a-kind experience for those who love board games. For a mere $5 per individual, patrons can gain entry to an impressive collection of games that cater to all skill levels. The drink menu offers a range of cocktails, from classic to inventive, and the food choices are delicious. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, with charming details scattered throughout the establishment. Although the wooden containers for the games may restrict the quantity of games available, the staff is well-informed and enthusiastic, making it an excellent location to learn new games. The private, covert rooms are a great choice for special events, and the staff is accommodating and attentive. Despite the small serving sizes, it’s a worthwhile investment for a fun time with loved ones. All in all, Vigilante Gastropub & Games is a wonderful destination for a romantic night out or a gathering of gaming enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Impressive game library with options for all types of board gamers
• Excellent concept, food, service, and game options
• Great date spot and good for large groups
• Wonderful staff and thoughtful little touches throughout the place

Cons:

• Limited selection of new game titles
• Staggered food service can be inconvenient for some customers

Option #3. Asgard Games

Address: 7010 Easy Wind Dr #150, Austin, TX 78752, United States Phone: +1 512-538-1516

Social Environment: LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming staff
Unique Experience: Board game bar combination
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking
Customer Service: Helpful and knowledgeable staff

✅ In-store shopping ✅ Curbside pickup ✅ Delivery ✅ Quick visit ✅ Credit cards

Asgard Games is a board game bar situated in Houston, Texas that provides a broad range of games and events for all kinds of enthusiasts. They possess an impressive assortment of citadel paints, D&D dice, minis, books, MTG, 40k, and other geeky items. The employees are amiable and knowledgeable, and the ambiance is well-lit and hygienic. Asgard Games is an excellent spot to indulge in board games, particularly Magic the Gathering, and they don’t impose any charges to play in the establishment. Additionally, they have a petite bar for beer and beverages, which makes it an ideal location to hang out and make new acquaintances. However, the parking area is restricted, and their collection of Pokemon products is subpar. All in all, Asgard Games is a remarkable destination for gamers and hobbyists alike, with a hospitable and all-embracing atmosphere that renders it a must-visit for anyone seeking a great time in Houston.

Pros:

• Wide selection of nerd items, including citadel paints, D&D dice, minis, books, MTG, and Warhammer
• Friendly and helpful staff who cater to a variety of games and events
• Free to play board game selection with no fees to play in-store
• Laid-back atmosphere with a good blend of tabletop RPGs, tabletop strategy, and trading card games

Cons:

• Sparse selection of items outside of Magic the Gathering and Warhammer
• Limited parking options

Option #4. Black Potion

Address: 3302 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77098, United States Phone: +1 713-677-0699

Social Environment: Friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
Unique Experience: Novel combination of board games and bar.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and restroom.
Customer Service: Friendly and attentive staff.

✅ Great beer selection ✅ Food ✅ Alcohol ✅ Restroom ✅ Cozy

Black Potion is an impressive bar that specializes in board games in San Antonio, Texas. This location provides an excellent space for socializing with a plethora of games to choose from. Alternatively, you can bring your own games and take advantage of their expansive tables. They also offer a fantastic selection of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and have rooms available for private gaming groups. Moreover, they have a theater for improv and movies, which makes it a unique destination for visitors. The staff is amiable and knowledgeable, and they offer a vast array of board games to play and purchase. Although the inventory is still being developed, the ambiance is inviting and comfortable, making it an ideal place to spend your evening. However, some guests have reported that it can be too noisy for role-playing games and that the selection of merchandise is currently limited. All in all, Black Potion is an excellent location for a relaxed night out with friends, a romantic evening, or even a study or work session with a change of scenery.

Pros:

• Large selection of games to play or purchase
• Excellent selection of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic
• Rooms available to rent for private gaming groups
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff

Cons:

• Limited parking in the front of the building
• Can be too loud for RPGs and serious gaming sessions

Option #5. Nerdvana

Address: 1900 Fredericksburg Rd Suite 101, San Antonio, TX 78201, United States Phone: +1 210-369-8750

Social Environment: LGBTQ+ friendly, family-friendly, groups
Unique Experience: Board game and bar combination
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Customer Service: Attentive, friendly, great service

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Great coffee ✅ Great dessert

Nerdvana, located in Frisco, Texas, is a bar that specializes in board games and provides an exceptional experience for both gamers and non-gamers. Their extensive collection of board and video games, coupled with their delicious cuisine and innovative cocktails, makes for an enjoyable time. The atmosphere is lively and the staff is amicable, making it an ideal destination for families or friends seeking an entertaining night out. Nevertheless, some patrons have expressed concerns regarding game console functionality and extended wait times. In conclusion, Nerdvana is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a distinctive dining experience that merges gaming and delectable food.

Pros:

• Great atmosphere for celebrating events and playing games.
• Friendly and helpful staff that provide good service.
• Extensive selection of both board and video games.
• Unique and tasty food options.

Cons:

• Some game consoles may not work properly.
• Food quality can be hit or miss.

Option #6. Game Theory Restaurant + Bar

Address: 5757 Main Street #112 & #111, Frisco, TX 75034, United States Phone: +1 214-308-9080

Social Environment: Friendly, family-friendly, groups
Unique Experience: Fun, unique concept, diverse game selection
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Customer Service: Great, knowledgeable, attentive, fun staff

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Curbside pickup ✅ Delivery ✅ Takeout ✅ Dine-in

For those seeking a distinctive and enjoyable dining experience, Game Theory Restaurant + Bar is a must-see. This eatery offers a vast array of board games for only $2 per individual, making it an ideal destination for a delightful night out with loved ones or friends. Additionally, their menu features top-quality food and drinks, such as rosemary truffle fries and firecracker wings, that are sure to satisfy your cravings. The staff is also friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist with game selection or suggest food and drink options. While some may find the initial fee per person to use the board games a disadvantage, the overall experience is well worth it. Game Theory is the perfect location for a romantic evening, group excursion, or even a family meal.

Pros:

• Diverse selection of games
• Chill vibe
• Finger foods available for table
• Knowledgeable and helpful staff

Cons:

• Food and alcohol can be expensive
• Service can be inattentive at times

Option #7. Humble Pint Brewing Co.

Address: 122 W Mulberry St Ste 100, Denton, TX 76201, United States Phone: +1 940-591-6520

Social Environment: LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safespace
Unique Experience: Bar games, Trivia night
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Customer Service: Friendly staff, Fast service

✅ Bar games ✅ Trivia night ✅ Fast service ✅ Casual atmosphere ✅ LGBTQ+ friendly

Humble Pint Brewing Co. is a trendy establishment located in Leander, Texas that has an impressive variety of beer on tap, including some of the finest IPAs in Austin. Additionally, the brewery boasts a delightful range of beers that are all exceptional, and a well-rounded selection that caters to all tastes. The thin crust pizza is also delectable, with fresh toppings and an array of flavors that are sure to please. Humble Pint offers several board games and card games, making it an excellent destination for families with children. The staff is amiable and accommodating, providing exceptional service and creating a serene atmosphere for patrons. However, the pizza and beer can be a bit costly, and the ambiance can be a tad too noisy due to its warehouse open-air setting. All in all, Humble Pint is an excellent choice for those seeking an enjoyable board game bar experience in Texas.

Pros:

• Great selection of beer on tap
• Several board games and card games to play
• Delicious pizza with fresh toppings and amazing flavors
• Friendly and helpful staff

Cons:

• Pizza can be expensive
• Atmosphere can be a bit too loud in the warehouse open-air setting

Option #8. Tandem San Antonio

Address: 5610 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77057, United States Phone: +1 N/A

Social Environment: Friendly, chill, neighborhood vibe
Unique Experience: Board games, live music, events
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, restroom
Customer Service: Excellent, consistent, knowledgeable staff

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Curbside pickup ✅ Delivery ✅ Takeout ✅ Dine-in

Tandem San Antonio is a necessary destination for board game enthusiasts in Texas. This laid-back establishment provides a fantastic assortment of specialty and standard beers, hard ciders, coffee beverages, and other refreshments. The outdoor space is shielded to offer some shade, and there are ample outdoor seats with delightful vibes. The environment is truly unique, with local artwork available for purchase on the walls, a colossal version of beer pong, and a plethora of board games to enjoy. On Friday and Saturday evenings, you may even catch live musical performances. The cuisine is delectable, with an array of sandwiches and baked goods that are all worth sampling. However, they do not offer cocktails, so mixed drinks are not an option. While the river view may not be the best, the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere more than compensates for it. Overall, Tandem San Antonio is an excellent place to hang out, unwind, and indulge in some fantastic coffee, beer, and food.

Pros:

• Great selection of craft and domestic beers, ciders, coffee drinks and more.
• Wonderful vibes and special ambience with tons of great outdoor seating.
• Moderately priced drinks and food items.
• Wide range of events and activities every month, including live bands, comedy nights, trivia, and more.

Cons:

• No mixed drinks or liquor available, only beer and wine.
• Outdoor seating could have a better view of the river.

Option #9. The Proletariat Gallery & Public House

Address: 2221 Market St #100, Galveston, TX 77550, United States Phone: +1 409-209-2335

Social Environment: LGBTQ+ friendly, cozy, groups
Unique Experience: Bar games, board games, art events
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom
Customer Service: Mixed reviews, some rude staff

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Live performances ✅ Dogs allowed

Looking for a one-of-a-kind board game bar experience in Galveston, Texas? Look no further than The Proletariat Gallery & Public House. This establishment offers a delightful blend of coffee and alcoholic beverages, making it the perfect spot for a mid-day break or a late-night hangout. Whether you’re in the mood for a brew, wine, or non-alcoholic drink, this bar has got you covered. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the bar even hosts art exhibitions and poetry nights, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a cultural experience. However, it’s worth noting that some patrons have reported encountering impolite staff members. Despite this, The Proletariat Gallery & Public House remains an excellent choice for anyone seeking a relaxed atmosphere, tasty drinks, and a distinctive ambiance.

Pros:

• Offers both coffee and alcoholic drinks
• Good selection of draft beer and non-alcoholic drinks
• Friendly staff and guests
• Unique and relaxed atmosphere with art and board games

Cons:

• Limited food options
• Some negative experiences with rude staff

Option #10. Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

Address: 310 Riverside Dr, San Antonio, TX 78210, United States Phone: +1 210-455-5400

Social Environment: LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safespace
Unique Experience: Bar games, Trivia night
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Customer Service: Prompt, friendly, knowledgeable staff

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Dogs allowed ✅ Free Wi-Fi

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is a chain of bars that specialize in craft beer, boasting more than 20 locations across six states. The Coppell establishment is an ideal place to hang out with loved ones and furry friends, thanks to the adjacent dog park and outdoor family activities. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a vast selection of beers and delectable cuisine. The staff is well-informed and attentive, and the availability of board games for patrons adds to the overall entertainment value. Nonetheless, some customers have observed that the process for checking in beers at the beer club can be intricate, and the absence of bar seating may not suit everyone. All in all, Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is an excellent destination for those seeking a fun and laid-back environment to savor craft beer and scrumptious food with family and friends.

Pros:

• $4 Drafts on local brews every Sunday
• Delicious food and great atmosphere for sports games
• Family-friendly with activities outside
• Wide variety of draft beers and good beer selection

Cons:

• No bar seating
• Checking in beers at the beer club can be complicated

Option #11. Central District Brewing

Address: 3111 Olympus Blvd #100, Dallas, TX 75019, United States Phone: +1 972-440-1580

Social Environment: Friendly, inclusive atmosphere
Unique Experience: Board games + beer combo
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Customer Service: Knowledgeable, friendly staff

✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking lot ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom ✅ Wheelchair accessible seating ✅ Bar onsite

Central District Brewing is a fantastic destination for those who love beer and enjoy playing board games. The establishment provides a range of in-house brewed beers, which includes options such as light, IPA, sour, and stout. The personnel are amiable and well-informed about the beers, and the ambiance is informal and welcoming. While sipping on your drinks, you can also indulge in playing board games, making it a fun place to hang out with your buddies. The brewery is conveniently situated in downtown Austin and is pet-friendly. Although the beer selection is not vast, the quality is exceptional. The noise level inside can be a bit loud, but all in all, Central District Brewing is an excellent place to have a beer and play some games.

Pros:

• Excellent selection of home-brewed beers, including light, IPA, sour, and stout
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff who can advise on the best fit for your taste
• Fun atmosphere with board games available to play while drinking
• Convenient location in downtown Austin, with indoor and outdoor seating options

Cons:

• Limited food menu with only a few small bites to choose from
• Some customers have reported that the space can be noisy with loud music

Option #12. Post Oak Ice House

Address: 88 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701, United States Phone: +1 512-559-8800

Social Environment: Friendly and diverse atmosphere.
Unique Experience: Board games and bar combination.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom.
Customer Service: Attentive and personable bartenders.

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Takeout ✅ Dine-in ✅ Delivery ✅ Fast service

Looking for a cool and enjoyable hangout spot with your buddies? Post Oak Ice House could be the perfect place for you. This bar boasts a wide array of beverages, from an extensive liquor selection to excellent draft beer choices. Both indoor and outdoor games, like Jenga and cornhole, are available to keep everyone entertained. The Wednesday steak night and Thursday’s loteria night are fantastic additions to the already lively ambiance. While the prices may be a bit steep for some, the friendly staff and fantastic atmosphere more than make up for it. The location is even dog-friendly, adding to the relaxed vibe. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as the limited food options and the possibility of car theft in the parking lot. Overall, if you’re looking for a laid-back and enjoyable night out with friends, Post Oak Ice House is an excellent option.

Pros:

• Great meeting place with attentive staff.
• Offers board games and other activities for guests.
• Spacious indoor and outdoor areas.
• Wide selection of beers and mixed drinks.

Cons:

• Prices may be a bit high for some customers.
• No food served, but there’s a food truck outside.

Option #13. Lake Travis Biergarten

Address: 1928 S Akard St, Dallas, TX 75215, United States Phone: +1 469-620-3131

Social Environment: Family-friendly, dog-friendly, live music.
Unique Experience: Board games, pickleball, outdoor seating.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, seating.
Customer Service: Friendly staff, fast service.

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Fireplace ✅ Live music ✅ Dogs allowed ✅ Free Wi-Fi

Lake Travis Biergarten is an impressive new establishment that presents an excellent assortment of beverages, an abundance of seating areas, and a diverse range of games, such as pickleball and board games. The ambiance is enjoyable and energetic, featuring live music and a welcoming environment for both dogs and children. The food truck provides delectable choices, including tacos and burgers. The personnel are amiable and obliging, and the beer is always fresh and served in frosty pint glasses. Although a few patrons have reported problems with excessive billing and tardy service, the Biergarten has taken measures to address these issues. All in all, this is a fantastic location to watch sports, socialize with friends, and experience a lively day with the family.

Pros:

• Great venue with plenty of seating areas and games
• Dog and kid friendly with lots of fun activities like pickleball and lawn games
• Excellent food truck options and delicious bar food
• Friendly staff and great atmosphere for hanging out with friends and family

Cons:

• Food can take a while to come out
• Some customers have reported overcharging on their cards

More About The State

Beyond the board game bars, Texas is a goldmine of history, culture, and natural marvels. The past of this state is a tapestry woven from the Native American tribes that once inhabited the land and the Spanish pioneers who brought Christianity to the area, making it a rich and diverse region. The Gulf Coastal Plains, Interior Lowlands, Great Plains, and Basin and Range Province offer an array of geographical characteristics, from undulating hills to towering mountains. The fauna is also worth mentioning, with black bears, armadillos, coyotes, and jaguarundis calling Texas home. It’s no surprise that Texas is known as the Lone Star State, with so much to explore and experience. Discover why it’s a beloved destination by exploring all that Texas has to offer.

POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:

🌉 – Take a leisurely stroll along the San Antonio River and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the River Walk. This pedestrian walkway is dotted with restaurants and outdoor patios, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. For a unique experience, hop on a river boat and enjoy a relaxing cruise.

🏰 – The Alamo is an essential historic site to visit in Texas. Once a mission station turned fort, it played a significant role in the Texas Revolution. Explore the landmark and see the restored buildings and cenotaph honoring the fallen Texans. Inside, a museum showcases changing displays of weapons and artifacts related to the mission’s history and events.

🚀 – Space Center Houston is a must-visit attraction in Texas, where visitors can learn about space exploration, NASA’s latest projects, and upcoming missions. You may even have the chance to meet an astronaut! The center is home to Johnson Space Center and Mission Control, which can be toured. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the entire complex, including a space shuttle replica mounted on a shuttle carrier.

🏜️ – Big Bend National Park in West Texas offers a stunning and unique landscape of the Chihuahuan Desert, complete with mountains, canyons, and the Rio Grande River flowing along the border. The park provides a diverse range of recreational and sightseeing opportunities, with an extensive network of hiking trails and beautiful campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with over 400 species of birds to spot.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board game bars in Texas offer a unique and exciting experience for customers. With a wide selection of games to choose from, customers can enjoy a night of fun and games with friends or family. These businesses provide a casual and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and enjoying each other’s company. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, there is something for everyone at these establishments. Additionally, the staff is knowledgeable and friendly, always willing to help customers find the perfect game or drink. To make the most out of your visit, be sure to bring your favorite game and try out some of the local brews. Overall, board game bars in Texas offer a great way to spend an evening and create lasting memories. Thank you for taking the time to read about these exciting businesses, and we hope you have a fantastic time at your next visit.