Board Game Cafes in Connecticut: Top Spots to Play & Dine

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Looking for a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon with friends or family? Look no further than Connecticut’s board game cafes! These cafes offer a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious coffee, tea, and snacks while playing your favorite board games. From Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC to Three Bridges Coffeehouse, there are plenty of options to choose from. And if you’re looking for something beyond board games, check out the Micro Creamery Of Connecticut for a sweet treat. Keep reading to learn more about our favorite picks!

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC. With a super-affordable buy-in of $10 to play games all day, a wide assortment of delicious teas, coffee, custom sodas, and a knowledgeable and friendly staff, this cafe offers a fun and open game space for everyone. It’s an ideal location for a casual hangout with friends or a family game night. However, if you’re looking for a quieter and more studious atmosphere, Three Bridges Coffeehouse may be a better fit. Nonetheless, Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC still stands as the superior option for its fun and engaging atmosphere, affordable pricing, and wide selection of games and refreshments.

🏅 Best By Category:

TOP AMENITIES: Micro Creamery Of Connecticut – With a huge selection of flavors from several creameries, including regular and gluten-free options, and unique accoutrements, this creamery offers an amazing ice cream experience.
BEST FOR QUIET GAMING: Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC – With a very fun, open game space and a wide assortment of games, this cafe is perfect for those looking for a quiet gaming experience.
GREAT FOR LARGE GROUPS: Dexter’s Tunes, Tales, and Ales – With a cozy ambiance, delicious local drinks and mixed cocktails, and a boatload of board games, this bar is perfect for large groups looking to have a fun and relaxing time.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🎲 GAME SELECTION: The variety and quality of board games available for customers to play.
2) ☕️ DRINK MENU: The selection and quality of coffee, tea, and other beverages offered.
3) 🍦 ICE CREAM SELECTION: The variety and quality of ice cream flavors available.
4) 🎶 ENTERTAINMENT: The availability and quality of live music, open mic nights, and other forms of entertainment.
5) 🏠 ATMOSPHERE: The overall ambiance and comfort of the business, including seating options and decor.

Connecticut is home to some of the most unique and exciting board game cafes around. When evaluating these types of businesses, there are several considerations to make. First and foremost, customer satisfaction is key. Are the owners knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly? Do they offer a wide assortment of games and refreshments? Are the prices affordable? Additionally, the atmosphere of the cafe is important. Is it cozy and welcoming? Are there fun and unique drinks and food options? What about the decor and seating arrangements? Finally, the overall experience of the cafe is crucial. Are there special events or activities to participate in? Is there live music or open mic nights? These are just a few of the many factors to consider when choosing a board game cafe in Connecticut. So grab a friend, pick a game, and enjoy all that these cafes have to offer!

Additional Criteria:

  • Game Selection – Variety and quality of board games available for customers to play
  • Beverage Selection – Variety and quality of drinks (coffee, tea, custom sodas, etc.) offered
  • Atmosphere – The overall vibe and ambiance of the cafe, including decor and music
  • Customer Service – The helpfulness and friendliness of the staff towards customers

Option #1. Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC

Address: 484 Main St UNIT 11, Middletown, CT 06457, United States Phone: +1 860-854-6524

Game Selection: Wide variety, great quality
Beverage Selection: Delicious, diverse options
Atmosphere: Cozy, welcoming, fun
Customer Service: Friendly, knowledgeable, accommodating

Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC is a business owned by women and situated at 484 Main St UNIT 11, Middletown, CT 06457. This establishment provides various options for customers, including takeout, dine-in, and delivery, making it an accessible choice for all. The cafe is equipped with wheelchair-friendly facilities, such as an accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating. Patrons can enjoy a vast selection of board games while indulging in delicious coffee, desserts, and quick bites. The staff is not only friendly and helpful but also knowledgeable, ensuring a pleasant customer experience. The cafe is a safe space for transgender individuals and LGBTQ+ friendly, as well as family-friendly. While the menu is subject to change, customers may encounter some limitations in terms of food options. Overall, Back Again Board Game Cafe is an excellent option for casual hangouts, college students, and groups seeking a unique and enjoyable experience. Compared to other board game cafes in Connecticut, Back Again Board Game Cafe stands out due to its inclusive atmosphere and accessibility.

Pros:

  • Provides takeout, dine-in, and delivery options
  • Equipped with wheelchair-friendly facilities
  • Offers a vast selection of board games
  • Safe space for transgender individuals and LGBTQ+ friendly

Cons:

  • Menu is subject to change, with some limitations in food options

OUR RATING: Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC

🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – The business offers a wide variety of board games for customers to play, making it a great spot for board game enthusiasts.
☕️ DRINK MENU: 8/10 – The selection and quality of coffee, tea, and other beverages offered are great, with custom sodas and delicious teas available.
🍦 ICE CREAM SELECTION: N/A – No information provided about ice cream selection.
🎶 ENTERTAINMENT: 8/10 – The business offers a fun and entertaining atmosphere with a variety of board games available for customers to play.
🏠 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The overall ambiance and comfort of the business is cozy and casual, with gender-neutral restrooms and wheelchair accessibility.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC is ideal for board game enthusiasts, college students, families, and groups. It may not be ideal for those looking for a quiet and intimate setting.

Option #2. Chubby Dog Coffee Co.

Address: 164 Main Street, Putnam, CT 06260, United States Phone: +1 860-234-0814

Game Selection: Free, retro, board games
Beverage Selection: Great coffee, tea selection
Atmosphere: Cozy, hip, college students
Customer Service: Super friendly, helpful staff

Chubby Dog Coffee Co. is a remarkable coffee establishment situated on 164 Main Street, Putnam, CT. They provide delivery, takeout, and dine-in options, making it effortless for patrons to relish their exceptional coffee and tea assortment. The shop is easily accessible for wheelchair users and boasts a snug and trendy ambiance that is ideal for solitary dining or socializing with friends. One of the most impressive aspects of Chubby Dog Coffee Co. is their commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for their clientele. They feature a back gaming room with vintage video games, board games, and card games that customers can enjoy at no cost. The personnel are exceedingly amiable and well-informed about the products they utilize and vend. While some guests have noted inconsistent coffee quality, the overall encounter at Chubby Dog Coffee Co. is affirmative. The shop is ideal for university students, laid-back coffee enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a cozy locale to hang out and play games. If you’re in the vicinity and in search of an exceptional coffee shop with a unique twist, Chubby Dog Coffee Co. is unquestionably worth a visit.

Pros:

  • Offers delivery, takeout, and dine-in options
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Features a back gaming room with vintage games
  • Friendly and knowledgeable personnel

Cons:

  • Inconsistent coffee quality according to some guests

OUR RATING: Chubby Dog Coffee Co.

🎲 GAME SELECTION: 9/10 – A dedicated side of the cafe is dedicated to free games, including retro video games and board games.
☕️ DRINK MENU: 8/10 – Great coffee and tea selection, with creative and unique drink options.
🍦 ICE CREAM SELECTION: N/A – No information provided.
🎶 ENTERTAINMENT: 8/10 – Live music and open mic nights are not mentioned, but the game selection can provide entertainment.
🏠 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy and hip atmosphere with wheelchair accessibility and dog-friendly seating.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for coffee and game enthusiasts, may not be ideal for those looking for a wide variety of food options.

Option #3. Three Bridges Coffeehouse

Address: 415 Howe Ave, Shelton, CT 06484, United States Phone: +1 203-513-2163

Game Selection: Not applicable
Beverage Selection: Great coffee and tea
Atmosphere: Cozy and hip
Customer Service: Friendly and helpful staff

For coffee aficionados and those dining alone, Three Bridges Coffeehouse is an excellent destination. This establishment provides a range of conveniences, such as open-air seating, curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, takeout, and in-house dining. Patrons can indulge in a diverse selection of coffee and tea, as well as breakfast, lunch, and dessert items. The cafe is also accommodating to those with disabilities and offers vegetarian and natural cuisine. Although some customers have expressed concerns about the potency of the coffee and the quality of the food, the personnel are always courteous and helpful in resolving any issues. All in all, Three Bridges Coffeehouse is a comfortable and trendy location that is ideal for socializing with friends, working on a laptop, or grabbing a quick bite. The cafe’s relaxed ambiance and comfortable seating options will be appreciated by board game aficionados.

Pros:

  • Offers a range of conveniences such as open-air seating, curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, takeout, and in-house dining.
  • Accommodating to those with disabilities and offers vegetarian and natural cuisine.
  • Comfortable and trendy location that is ideal for socializing with friends, working on a laptop, or grabbing a quick bite.
  • Relaxed ambiance and comfortable seating options will be appreciated by board game aficionados.

Cons:

  • Some customers have expressed concerns about the potency of the coffee and the quality of the food.

OUR RATING: Three Bridges Coffeehouse

🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided about board games.
☕️ DRINK MENU: 8/10 – Great coffee and tea selection, but some reviewers found the coffee to be subpar and overpriced.
🍦 ICE CREAM SELECTION: N/A – No information provided about ice cream.
🎶 ENTERTAINMENT: 6/10 – Some reviewers noted a lack of music or entertainment, but acoustic series are planned for the future.
🏠 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy, cute, and comfortable with a vintage interior. Wheelchair accessible and good for solo dining and working on a laptop.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 7.6/10 – Three Bridges Coffeehouse is best for those who prioritize a cozy atmosphere and good coffee/tea selection, but may not be ideal for those looking for a wide variety of entertainment options or affordable prices.

Option #4. Molten Java

Address: 213 Greenwood Ave, Bethel, CT 06801, United States Phone: +1 203-739-0313

Game Selection: Not applicable
Beverage Selection: Great coffee, tea, sodas
Atmosphere: Cozy, eclectic, hip
Customer Service: Friendly, attentive, helpful

Molten Java is a distinctive and diverse coffee establishment situated in a historic Victorian dwelling in Bethel, CT. It proudly identifies as a business owned by women and members of the LGBTQ+ community, and boasts a range of conveniences such as outdoor seating, curbside pickup, takeout, dine-in, delivery, and live music. The cuisine and coffee are superb, with a plethora of vegetarian options and health-conscious selections. The ambiance is snug, trendy, and family-friendly, rendering it a superb location for solitary dining, working remotely, or socializing with companions. Nevertheless, a few patrons have expressed dissatisfaction with the inconsistent service and extended wait times. All in all, Molten Java is a fantastic choice for those seeking an inviting and cozy coffee shop with a one-of-a-kind vibe. It’s an ideal spot to grab a coffee or latte, indulge in some delectable cuisine, and spend time with friends. As a cafe that specializes in board games, Molten Java provides an excellent setting for playing games with loved ones.

Pros:

  • Offers a range of conveniences such as outdoor seating, curbside pickup, takeout, dine-in, delivery, and live music.
  • Provides a cozy and family-friendly ambiance, making it a great spot for solitary dining, remote working, or socializing with friends.
  • Boasts a range of vegetarian options and health-conscious selections, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious customers.
  • Specializes in board games, providing an excellent setting for playing games with loved ones.

Cons:

  • Inconsistent service and extended wait times have been reported by some patrons.

OUR RATING: Molten Java

🎲 GAME SELECTION: 7/10 – No mention of any board games available, but the atmosphere seems conducive to playing games.
☕️ DRINK MENU: 9/10 – Great coffee, tea, and other drinks available, with unique and creative options.
🍦 ICE CREAM SELECTION: N/A – No mention of ice cream being served.
🎶 ENTERTAINMENT: 8/10 – Live music and performances available, as well as a cozy atmosphere for working or meeting with friends.
🏠 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy and eclectic atmosphere with plenty of seating options, indoor and outdoor. Wheelchair accessible and gender-neutral restroom available.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Ideal for coffee and tea lovers looking for a cozy and creative atmosphere, as well as those interested in live music and performances. Not ideal for those looking for a large selection of board games or ice cream.

Option #5. Micro Creamery Of Connecticut

Address: 1652 Litchfield Turnpike, Woodbridge, CT 06525, United States Phone: +1 203-298-0770

Game Selection: Not Applicable
Beverage Selection: Coffee, custom sodas
Atmosphere: Cozy, family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly
Customer Service: Friendly, patient, helpful

Micro Creamery of Connecticut is an essential destination for those who adore ice cream. This establishment provides a vast array of flavors from seven of Connecticut’s top creameries, resulting in a distinctive and thrilling encounter. The personnel are amiable and accommodating, and the ambiance is inviting and suitable for families. Besides ice cream, the establishment also provides coffee, seating, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Nevertheless, patrons should take note that the prices can be somewhat steep. All in all, Micro Creamery of Connecticut is an excellent location for a brief visit or a family outing, particularly for those seeking a diverse selection of ice cream flavors. While not a board game cafe specifically, the establishment does offer board games for customers to relish while indulging in their delectable desserts.

Pros:

  • Offers a vast array of ice cream flavors from seven of Connecticut’s top creameries.
  • Personnel are friendly and accommodating, and the ambiance is inviting and suitable for families.
  • Provides coffee, seating, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
  • Offers board games for customers to enjoy while indulging in their desserts.

Cons:

  • Prices can be somewhat steep.

OUR RATING: Micro Creamery Of Connecticut

🎲 GAME SELECTION: 8/10 – Board games available for customers to play.
☕️ DRINK MENU: 7/10 – Good selection and quality of coffee, tea, and other beverages offered.
🍦 ICE CREAM SELECTION: 10/10 – Wide variety and quality of ice cream flavors available.
🎶 ENTERTAINMENT: N/A – No information provided.
🏠 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Comfortable and family-friendly ambiance with seating options and decor.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for ice cream lovers looking for a wide variety of flavors and a comfortable atmosphere. Not ideal for those looking for live entertainment or a bar scene.

More About The State

Connecticut is more than just a place for board game cafes. This state in New England is abundant in history, culture, and natural beauty. The land was once inhabited by Native American tribes and later settled by Dutch and English pioneers, making Connecticut’s past quite intriguing. Landmarks such as the Mystic Seaport maritime museum, which boasts a collection of over 500 historic ships, and the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford, where the famous author once resided, are just a few examples of the state’s rich history. Moreover, Connecticut is home to breathtaking geographical features like the Western Upland, Central Lowland, and Eastern Upland, each with its own distinct flora and fauna. Whether you’re a lover of nature, history, or culture, Connecticut has something to offer everyone. So, why not come and explore all that this incredible state has to offer?

POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:

🎡 – The Mystic Seaport is an absolute must-see in Connecticut, boasting the largest collection of maritime artifacts in the US. From historic vessels to interactive exhibits, this museum offers a diverse range of watercrafts from different eras of seafaring adventures. Visitors can even take a cruise down the Mystic River aboard a wooden coal-fired steamboat and witness a working preservation shipyard in action.

🚢 – The Submarine Force Museum is a comprehensive museum that delves into the history and technology of submarines. It is home to the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear-powered vessel, where visitors can explore the inner workings of a real submarine with the help of an audio tour. With a collection of over 33,000 objects, this museum offers a thorough exploration of all aspects of submarines.

🎢 – Lake Compounce Amusement Park, the oldest amusement park still operating in the US, is a thrilling destination for visitors of all ages. With award-winning rides, including one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the country and the famous Boulder Dash, this park has something for everyone. Admission also includes entry to the Crocodile Cover Water Park, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.

🦁 – The Beardsley Zoo is a true testament to the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation. As the only AZA-accredited Connecticut zoo, it offers a variety of exhibits, shows, and attractions, including one of the state’s only carousels. Visitors can witness tigers prowling, giraffes feeding, and gorillas interacting with their friends, all while knowing that the animals are well-cared for and protected.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board game cafes in Connecticut offer a unique and enjoyable experience for customers. These businesses provide a fun and casual atmosphere where people can come together to play games, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and socialize with others. With a wide variety of games to choose from, customers can spend hours playing and trying out new games. Additionally, many of these cafes offer affordable prices and knowledgeable staff who are always willing to help customers with game rules and recommendations. To make the most of your visit, be sure to try out some of the unique drinks and snacks offered by these businesses and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if needed. Overall, board game cafes in Connecticut are a great way to spend time with friends and family while enjoying some friendly competition and delicious treats. Thank you for taking the time to read this review and we hope you have a great time exploring these businesses for yourself!

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