Board Game Cafes in Idaho: Dice & Dine in the Gem State

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Are you a fan of board games and coffee? Look no further than the board game cafes of Idaho! These cafes offer a unique experience, combining the fun of playing games with the comfort of sipping on a warm cup of coffee. From the Collector’s Outpost, where you can browse through comics and collectibles while enjoying a cup of joe, to HeBrews Coffee, a cozy spot with an excellent selection of coffee and pastries, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a more interactive experience, check out Xeus & Apollo’s, where you can join in on a game of Dungeons & Dragons or LARP. And don’t forget about Barricade, with vintage arcade and pinball games to play while enjoying their board game selection. And for those who love boba, Boba Luv offers a variety of delicious drinks to satisfy your cravings. So come on in and join the fun! Read on to learn more about our favorite board game cafes in Idaho.

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is the Collector’s Outpost. With its unique combination of comic books, collectibles, and coffee, this board game cafe offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with the comfortable atmosphere, make it an ideal spot for both casual browsing and serious collectors. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional board game cafe experience, our 1st-runner up, Barricade, may be a better fit. Despite this, the Collector’s Outpost stands out as the superior option due to its exceptional customer service and unique offerings.

🏅 Best By Category:

TOP AMENITIES: The Collector’s Outpost – With a great selection of comics, collectibles, and coffee, this place has it all. The unique decor and full-size superhero characters make it a must-visit for any comic book fan.
BEST FOR QUIET GAMING: HeBrews Coffee – This cozy coffee shop offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for quiet gaming. With a great selection of books and antique furniture, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a game.
GREAT FOR LARGE GROUPS: Xeus & Apollo’s – With a large selection of games and friendly staff, this game store is perfect for large groups. Their D&D and LARP events are planned well and offer a fun experience for everyone.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🎲 ENTERTAINMENT: The variety and quality of games and activities offered, including board games, arcade games, and role-playing games.
2) ☕️ BEVERAGES: The quality and variety of beverages offered, including coffee, tea, boba, and alcoholic drinks.
3) 🛋️ ATMOSPHERE: The ambiance and comfort of the space, including decor, lighting, seating, and cleanliness.
4) 🤝 CUSTOMER SERVICE: The friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism of the staff, including their knowledge of products and willingness to assist customers.
5) 💰 VALUE: The affordability and perceived worth of the products and services offered, including pricing, promotions, and discounts.

Looking for a fun and unique way to spend your time in Idaho? Look no further than board game cafes! These cafes offer a fun and casual atmosphere where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cold beer while playing your favorite board games. But what should you consider when choosing a board game cafe? First, consider the overall customer satisfaction. Are customers happy with the selection of games and the atmosphere of the cafe? Additionally, think about the actual usage and patronage of the location. Are there enough tables and chairs for everyone to comfortably play games? Is the lighting and temperature comfortable for extended periods of play? Finally, don’t be afraid to try out a new game or ask for recommendations from the staff. You never know what hidden gem you might discover! So grab a friend and head to a board game cafe for a fun and engaging experience.

Additional Criteria:

  • Atmosphere – The overall ambiance and environment of the business, including decor, lighting, and music.
  • Game Selection – The variety and quality of board gaming options offered.
  • Customer Service – The level of attentiveness, friendliness, and helpfulness of the staff towards customers.
  • Price – The cost of products and services offered, including any discounts or promotions.

Option #1. the Collector’s Outpost

Address: 2951 E Overland Rd #170, Meridian, ID 83642, United States Phone: +1 208-668-7003

Atmosphere: Unique, cool, inviting, clean.
Game Selection: Not applicable.
Customer Service: Friendly, knowledgeable, helpful.
Price: Reasonable, fair.

The Collector’s Outpost is a one-of-a-kind establishment that merges a coffee house with a comic book emporium. They offer both in-store purchasing and pick-up, in addition to wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking. The store boasts an exceptional ambiance, showcasing remarkable artwork, action figures, and an extensive array of comic books. They also have a virtual reality setup and a lounge area for patrons to unwind and peruse. The personnel are well-informed and amiable, delivering top-notch customer service. Although some customers have experienced difficulties with delayed orders and missed pickups, the staff is prompt in addressing and resolving any issues. All in all, The Collector’s Outpost is an excellent destination for comic book aficionados and coffee connoisseurs alike, with something for everyone to relish. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a distinctive and enjoyable encounter, and a superb location to hang out and decompress.

Pros:

  • Easily accessible for those in wheelchairs
  • Impressive assortment of action figures, collectibles, and comics
  • VR installation and comfortable lounge area
  • Knowledgeable and amiable staff

Cons:

  • Limited parking spaces may be an issue during peak hours
  • Prices may be higher compared to other coffee shops or comic book stores

OUR RATING: the Collector’s Outpost

🎲 ENTERTAINMENT: 9/10 – Great variety of comics, collectibles, and a VR setup.
☕️ BEVERAGES: 9/10 – Good coffee and tea, plus a surprise drink option.
🛋️ ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Unique and inviting decor, comfortable seating, and well-stocked.
🤝 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 10/10 – Friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful staff.
💰 VALUE: 8/10 – Prices are reasonable for the quality and variety of products.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 9/10 – Ideal for comic book and collectible enthusiasts who also enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea. Not ideal for those who are not interested in comics or collectibles.

Option #2. HeBrews Coffee

Address: 118 W Main St, Emmett, ID 83617, United States Phone: +1 208-365-7756

Atmosphere: Cozy, hip, casual, charming, relaxing
Game Selection: Not applicable
Customer Service: Friendly, accommodating, helpful, welcoming, attentive
Price: Reasonable, affordable, good value, competitive, discounts available

HeBrews Coffee is a warm and inviting coffee house situated at 118 W Main St, Emmett, ID. They provide a fantastic array of coffee and tea, in addition to al fresco seating, takeout, dine-in, and delivery choices. The establishment is accessible to those who use wheelchairs and boasts a commendable selection of literature and vintage furnishings for patrons to unwind and decompress. Guests can relish in a solitary dining experience or work on their portable computer while indulging in a cup of java. The vibe is laid-back, snug, and trendy, making it an excellent destination for groups and sightseers. Even though the coffee may not be the most exceptional, the overall ambiance and vibe compensate for it. It’s important to note that the food options are somewhat limited and primarily consist of sugary items, but the gluten-free bars and a few donuts are a delightful touch. HeBrews Coffee is an exceptional place to unwind, read a book, or engage in pleasant board game with other customers.

Pros:

  • Warm and inviting atmosphere with vintage furnishings and commendable selection of literature.
  • Accessible to those who use wheelchairs and offers al fresco seating, takeout, dine-in, and delivery choices.
  • Laid-back, snug, and trendy vibe, making it an excellent destination for groups and sightseers.
  • Guests can relish in a solitary dining experience or work on their portable computer while indulging in a cup of java.

Cons:

  • Coffee may not be the most exceptional, but the overall ambiance and vibe compensate for it.
  • Limited food options may not appeal to all customers.

OUR RATING: HeBrews Coffee

🎲 ENTERTAINMENT: N/A
☕️ BEVERAGES: 9/10 – Great coffee and tea selection, as well as Italian sodas and gelato.
🛋️ ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy, hip, and welcoming atmosphere with antique furniture and books to read.
🤝 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 10/10 – Friendly and accommodating staff, with the owner often present and conversational.
💰 VALUE: 9/10 – Affordable pricing for high-quality beverages and a comfortable atmosphere.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 9.4/10 – Ideal for coffee and tea lovers looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to relax or work in. Not ideal for those seeking a wide variety of food options or a loud and bustling environment.

Option #3. Xeus & Apollo’s

Address: 538 S Main St, Pocatello, ID 83204, United States Phone: +1 208-760-0898

Atmosphere: Warm and inviting ambiance.
Game Selection: Mainly card games, some unique board games.
Customer Service: Friendly and helpful staff.
Price: Reasonable prices, discounts offered.

Xeus & Apollo’s is a cafe that specializes in board games and is situated at 538 S Main St, Pocatello, ID 83204, United States. The cafe provides curbside pickup, delivery, and is accessible to those with disabilities. Patrons can utilize gender-neutral restrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a hospitable ambiance. The cafe boasts an extensive collection of Magic the Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons style games, as well as unique board games that are highly detailed. The personnel are exceptional, very amiable, and exceedingly helpful with any inquiries that customers may have. Nevertheless, some clients have noted that the cafe can be boisterous and disorganized at times, with animals roaming around. All in all, Xeus & Apollo’s is an excellent spot to socialize, engage in great games, and revel in a cozy atmosphere. It’s a perfect location for those seeking to have a night out with friends or host a game night.

Pros:

  • Extensive collection of unique board games, Magic the Gathering, and Dungeons & Dragons style games.
  • Exceptional personnel who are amiable and exceedingly helpful.
  • Provides curbside pickup, delivery, and is accessible to those with disabilities.
  • Hospitable ambiance with gender-neutral restrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Cons:

  • Can be boisterous and disorganized at times.

OUR RATING: Xeus & Apollo’s

🎲 ENTERTAINMENT: 8/10 – Large selection of Magic the Gathering and D&D games, unique board games, and well-planned D&D and LARP events.
☕️ BEVERAGES: 7/10 – Bistro with food and drink options, including great flavored sodas.
🛋️ ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Homey and warm ambiance, great decor, and comfortable seating.
🤝 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Amazing, friendly, and helpful staff who treat customers like family.
💰 VALUE: 8/10 – Reasonable prices on snacks and drinks, and great deals on cards.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.2/10 – Best for Magic the Gathering and D&D players looking for a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Not ideal for those looking for a quiet and organized space.

Option #4. Barricade

Address: 308 E Center St, Pocatello, ID 83201, United States Phone: +1 208-417-0575

Atmosphere: Retro, chill, fun
Game Selection: Vintage, board games
Customer Service: Friendly, attentive, congenial
Price: Reasonable, daily specials

Barricade, situated in Pocatello, ID, is a board game cafe owned by women. The establishment boasts a range of conveniences, such as curbside pickup, takeout, dine-in, delivery, speedy service, an impressive beer selection, and wheelchair accessibility. Guests can indulge in classic arcade and pinball games, board games, and even Nintendo games projected onto the wall. The personnel is cordial and attentive, and the ambiance is laid-back and inviting. Patrons can take advantage of the daily drink specials, and the reasonably priced beverages and slushies. Nevertheless, the drawback is that the rear area with the arcade games can be dim and warm, and the establishment is only open for a few days a week during specific hours. In general, Barricade is an excellent spot to reminisce about childhood memories, have a fun night out with friends, or enjoy a relaxed adult atmosphere.

Pros:

  • Guests can enjoy classic arcade and pinball games, board games, and Nintendo games projected onto the wall.
  • The personnel is friendly and attentive, and the ambiance is laid-back and inviting.
  • Patrons can take advantage of daily drink specials and reasonably priced beverages and slushies.

Cons:

  • The rear area with arcade games can be dim and warm.
  • The establishment is only open for a few days a week during specific hours.

OUR RATING: Barricade

🎲 ENTERTAINMENT: 9/10 – Great selection of vintage arcade games, pinball machines, and board games.
☕️ BEVERAGES: 8/10 – Good beer selection and reasonably priced drinks.
🛋️ ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Relaxed and nostalgic atmosphere with friendly staff.
🤝 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and attentive staff.
💰 VALUE: 8/10 – Reasonably priced drinks and games.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Best for those who enjoy a mix of arcade games and a bar atmosphere. May not be ideal for those looking for a quiet or upscale environment.

Option #5. Boba Luv

Address: 220 E 2nd N Ste 4, Rexburg, ID 83440, United States Phone: +1 208-351-8581

Atmosphere: Cozy, hip, clean, calm.
Game Selection: Board games available.
Customer Service: Friendly, outstanding, warm.
Price: Inflation raised prices.

Boba Luv, located in Rexburg, ID, is an excellent destination for a swift beverage or a gathering with companions. The establishment presents an array of options including delivery, takeout, and dine-in, with an impressive assortment of tea and a snug, trendy ambiance. The personnel are amiable and accommodating, and the spotlessness of the establishment engenders a serene and cozy environment. Although some patrons have encountered irregular service and the occasional absence of certain items, the enterprise is constantly striving to enhance and furnish the most exceptional encounter conceivable. Boba Luv is ideal for university scholars, families, and sightseers seeking a delectable and distinctive beverage experience.

Pros:

  • Offers delivery, takeout, and dine-in options
  • Impressive assortment of tea
  • Snug and trendy ambiance
  • Friendly and accommodating personnel

Cons:

  • Irregular service reported by some patrons

OUR RATING: Boba Luv

🎲 ENTERTAINMENT: 7/10 – Limited game options, but still a cozy atmosphere to hang out with friends.
☕️ BEVERAGES: 9/10 – Great tea selection and delicious drinks.
🛋️ ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – Cozy and hip decor, but small space and can get crowded.
🤝 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and helpful staff, willing to make things right for customers.
💰 VALUE: 7/10 – Prices have gone up, but still worth it for the quality of drinks and service.

💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8/10 – Best for college students and groups, may not be ideal for those looking for a spacious or quiet environment.

More About The State

Idaho is more than just a destination for board game enthusiasts. This state in the Pacific Northwest is a treasure trove of natural wonders, boasting some of the largest unspoiled areas in the United States. Idaho’s landscape is characterized by rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks, expansive lakes, and steep canyons, making it a Rocky Mountain state with abundant natural resources and picturesque vistas. Borah Peak is the highest point in the state, while Hells Canyon, through which the Snake River flows, is the deepest gorge in the United States. Idaho’s agricultural sector is diverse, but it is best known for its potato crop, which accounts for about one-third of the national yield. Idaho has a rich history, having been inhabited by native peoples for thousands of years before becoming a U.S. territory in the 19th century. With a thriving economy driven by manufacturing, agriculture, mining, forestry, and tourism, Idaho has something to offer everyone. Come and explore the beauty and wonder of this hidden gem for yourself!

POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:

🏞️ – Lake Coeur d’Alene is a well-liked spot for boating, sailing, and fishing during the summer season due to its picturesque mountainous surroundings. The nearby town of Coeur d’Alene provides access to the shoreline, hiking trails, and a charming downtown district.

🚴 – Boise’s urban pathway, the Boise River Greenbelt, spans 25 miles and passes through the city’s best riverside parks. The tree-lined route highlights the area’s natural beauty and grants access to top tourist attractions, such as Julia Davis Park and the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial.

🌊 – Twin Falls’ Shoshone Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the West,” is a 212-foot-tall waterfall that is a must-see attraction. The falls flow year-round, with a surge season between April and July, and the surrounding area offers hiking trails, swimming spots, and scenic overlooks.

🏕️ – The Sawtooth National Recreation Area boasts over 700 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, 40 peaks that rise over 10,000 feet, and numerous alpine lakes, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The area also has almost 50 established campgrounds, making it easy to find a place to spend the night.

🌋 – The Craters of the Moon National Monument in southeastern Idaho, with its lunar-like landscape, was formed by volcanic eruptions between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the signposted circular routes and five caves, which offer a stark contrast to the scorching temperatures above ground.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board game cafes in Idaho offer a unique and enjoyable experience for customers. These businesses provide a fun and casual atmosphere where customers can enjoy board games, coffee, and other refreshments. The Collector’s Outpost, HeBrews Coffee, Xeus & Apollo’s, and Barricade are just a few examples of businesses that offer this type of experience. Customers can expect to find a wide variety of games to play, as well as knowledgeable staff who can help them choose the perfect game. Additionally, these businesses often have a selection of food and drink options that are perfect for a casual night out with friends. To make the most of your experience, be sure to check the hours of operation before you go, and consider bringing a group of friends to enjoy the games together. Overall, board game cafes in Idaho are a great way to spend an evening, and we highly recommend giving them a try. Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and we hope you found it helpful.

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