Board Game Cafes in Massachusetts: Where to Dine & Play

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Looking for a fun and engaging way to spend time with friends and family in Massachusetts? Look no further than the world of board game cafes! These unique businesses offer a chance to unplug from technology and connect with loved ones over a shared love of games. From the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of The Castle to the historic charm of Leavitt & Peirce Tobacco, there’s a board game cafe for everyone. And with plenty of amenities like masks required and staff wearing masks, you can relax and enjoy your time without worry. Keep reading to discover our favorite board game cafes in Massachusetts!

๐Ÿ† Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is The Castle, a board game cafe located in downtown Beverly, Massachusetts. With a goal to provide a fun and energetic atmosphere for people to put their phones down and enjoy themselves with friends, The Castle boasts an expansive game library and is open throughout the week. Established in 2015, this husband and wife-owned business is a great choice for those looking for a lively and engaging board game cafe experience. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional tobacco and chess parlor experience, Leavitt & Peirce Tobacco may be a better fit. Nonetheless, The Castle’s energetic and fun atmosphere makes it the superior option for those seeking a modern board game cafe experience.

๐Ÿ… Best By Category:

TOP AMENITIES:Untapped Games offers the most comprehensive package of amenities, including catering, free Wi-Fi, and plastic-free packaging, making it the clear winner in this category.
BEST FOR QUIET GAMING:The Castle has an expansive library and mask requirements make it the perfect spot for quiet gaming, ensuring that gamers can focus on their games without any distractions.
GREAT FOR LARGE GROUPS:Back Again Board Game Cafe has a vast library of over 800 games, family-friendly atmosphere, and snack options make it the ideal location for large groups looking for a fun and inclusive gaming experience.

More About The State

There’s much more to Massachusetts than just board game cafes! This state is a true gem of the Northeastern United States, with its stunning Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Maine borders, and its rich history and culture. Massachusetts is home to the bustling city of Boston, which serves as the state’s capital and most populous city. Boston is a hub of American history, academia, and the research economy, and it’s also known for its vibrant LGBT culture and activism. Massachusetts is also home to some of the world’s most highly regarded academic institutions, including Harvard and MIT. The state played a powerful role in U.S. history, with its early English colonization, its leadership in the American Industrial Revolution, and its contributions to the abolitionist and progressivist movements. And don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about our favorite picks for board game cafes in Massachusetts! Keep reading to find out more.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) ๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: The variety and quality of board games available for customers to play.
2) ๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: The quality and variety of food and drinks offered, as well as their prices.
3) ๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: The overall cost of playing games, including any cover charges, game rental fees, or food and drink prices.
4) ๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: The ambiance and comfort of the space, including lighting, music, seating, and cleanliness.
5) ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: The friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge of the staff, as well as their adherence to safety protocols.

Board game cafes are a great way to spend quality time with friends and family while enjoying a fun game. When considering which board game cafe to visit, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the variety of games available. Are there enough options to keep everyone entertained? Second, think about the atmosphere of the cafe. Is it a cozy and welcoming space? Third, consider the amenities offered, such as parking, accessibility, and mask requirements. Finally, don’t forget to check out any special events or tournaments that may be happening. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun night out, board game cafes like The Castle, Eureka Puzzles, and Untapped Games offer a unique and enjoyable experience. So put down your phone, grab some friends, and get ready for a night of fun and games!

Additional Criteria:

  • Game Selection – Variety of games available
  • Location – Accessibility and proximity to customers
  • Safety Measures – Adherence to COVID-19 protocols
  • Customer Service – Quality of service provided to customers

Option #1. The Castle

Address: 240 Rantoul St Beverly, MA 01915 Phone: (978) 969-1719

Game Selection: Extensive collection of games
Location: Situated in Beverly, Massachusetts
Safety Measures: Adheres to COVID-19 protocols
Customer Service: Attentive and obliging personnel

Are you on the lookout for a lively and entertaining spot to spend quality time with your loved ones? Look no further than The Castle, a board game cafe situated in the heart of Beverly, Massachusetts. With an extensive collection of games, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. The menu is refined, featuring options such as handcrafted sandwiches and a delectable cured meat platter. The personnel is attentive and obliging, ensuring that your experience is exceptional. Although the heating system could benefit from some enhancements, the overall ambiance is welcoming and relaxed. The Castle is an ideal destination for any event, whether it’s a quick drink at the bar or an extended gaming session with friends. Be sure not to miss out on the most exceptional fries you’ll ever taste!

Pros:

  • Extensive collection of games to suit everyone’s taste
  • Refined menu featuring handcrafted sandwiches and cured meat platter
  • Attentive and obliging personnel for an exceptional experience
  • Ideal destination for any event, from quick drinks to extended gaming sessions

Cons:

  • Heating system could benefit from enhancements

OUR RATING: The Castle

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 9/10 – The Castle has an extensive collection of games that caters to everyone’s taste.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: 8/10 – The menu is refined, featuring handcrafted sandwiches and a delectable cured meat platter. The fries are exceptional.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 7/10 – The overall cost of playing games and food and drink prices are reasonable.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – The ambiance is welcoming and relaxed, but the heating system could benefit from some enhancements.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – The personnel is attentive and obliging, ensuring an exceptional experience while adhering to safety protocols.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 8.2/10 – The Castle is ideal for anyone looking for a lively and entertaining spot to spend quality time with loved ones. However, it may not be ideal for those on a tight budget.

Option #2. Eureka Puzzles

Address: 1355 Beacon St Brookline, MA 02446 Phone: (617) 738-7352

Game Selection: Vast inventory of games.
Location: Conveniently located in Brookline.
Safety Measures: Measures taken for safety.
Customer Service: Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

For those who love board games, Eureka Puzzles located in Brookline, MA is definitely worth checking out. Their inventory includes a vast array of games, puzzles, and brain teasers, as well as toys that are both entertaining and educational. The staff is not only friendly but also knowledgeable, always ready to provide suggestions and guidance. Although there have been some negative feedback from customers, the store has taken measures to address these issues and enhance the overall customer experience. Eureka Puzzles is an ideal destination for finding unique gifts for children of all ages and for organizing game nights with family and friends. Regardless of whether you are a seasoned gamer or a beginner, Eureka Puzzles has something that will appeal to you.

Pros:

  • Vast inventory of games, puzzles, and brain teasers
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff
  • Unique gifts for children of all ages
  • Ideal for game nights with family and friends

Cons:

  • Some negative feedback from customers
  • No mention of online shopping options

OUR RATING: Eureka Puzzles

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 9/10 – Eureka Puzzles has a vast array of games, puzzles, and brain teasers that cater to all ages and skill levels.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: N/A – No information provided about food or beverage offerings.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 8/10 – Prices are reasonable, with a cover charge of $5 per person for unlimited playtime.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The store has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a clean environment.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 10/10 – The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, providing suggestions and guidance to customers.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 9/10 – Eureka Puzzles is an ideal destination for finding unique gifts for children of all ages and for organizing game nights with family and friends. It may not be ideal for those looking for a place to eat or drink while playing games.

DID YOU KNOW: ๐ŸŽฒ – Many board games, including popular ones like “Puerto Rico,” glorify colonial domination and reinforce prejudices about non-Westerners? This is according to a new book, “Playing Oppression: The Legacy of Conquest and Empire in Colonialist Board Games,” by Mikael Jakobsson and Mary Flanagan, published by the MIT Press.

Option #3. Leavitt & Peirce Tobacco

Address: 1316 Massachusetts Ave Cambridge, MA 02138 Phone: (617) 547-0576

Game Selection: American & British games offered
Location: Situated in Cambridge, MA
Safety Measures: Employees & visitors wear masks
Customer Service: Unique shopping experience provided

Leavitt & Peirce Tobacco, situated in Cambridge, MA, is a tobacco shop with a rich history. The employees wear masks and require visitors to do the same, ensuring a secure environment during these times. The store provides a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with its assortment of tobacco, gifts, chess, and other games, as well as toiletries. Since its inception in 1883, Leavitt & Peirce has persevered and continues to offer a blend of traditional and contemporary products. The store’s black and white checkerboard flooring, all-wood shelving and cabinets, antiques, tin ceilings, old pictures, and vintage lighting create an ambiance that transports visitors back in time. Although the store may appear to cater to “gentleman’s smoking,” it has something for everyone. The store is divided into four main categories: tobacco and cigars, games and toys, the shaving world, and gifts and soaps. While the store may not have an extensive cigar collection, it does have a good selection of pipes, tobacco, and rpg-supplies-stores/">accessories. Additionally, the store carries both American Classic and British board games, making it an ideal destination for board game enthusiasts. However, the store’s small size may be a disadvantage for some customers. In conclusion, Leavitt & Peirce is a fantastic place to visit for those seeking a distinctive shopping experience and a glimpse into history.

Pros:

  • Offers a unique shopping experience with a blend of traditional and contemporary products.
  • Provides a secure environment by requiring masks for both employees and visitors.
  • Carries a good selection of pipes, tobacco, and accessories.
  • Ideal destination for board game enthusiasts with American Classic and British board games.

Cons:

  • Small size may be a disadvantage for some customers.
  • May appear to cater to “gentleman’s smoking,” but has something for everyone.

OUR RATING: Leavitt & Peirce Tobacco

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 8/10 – Good selection of American Classic and British board games.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: N/A – No information provided.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 7/10 – Reasonable prices for tobacco and games, but no information on cover charges or rental fees.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Unique and cozy ambiance with vintage decor and comfortable seating.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Friendly and knowledgeable staff who prioritize safety protocols.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Ideal for those interested in tobacco, games, and vintage shopping experiences. Not ideal for those looking for a large cigar collection or spacious shopping areas.

Option #4. Omar’s World Of Comics And Hobbies

Address: 30 Waltham St Lexington, MA 02421 Phone: (781) 457-6986

Game Selection: Impressive range of games.
Location: Located in Lexington, MA.
Safety Measures: Impeccably clean space.
Customer Service: Consistently warm and friendly.

If you’re on the hunt for a board game cafe that offers more than just your typical gaming experience, then Omar’s World Of Comics And Hobbies in Lexington, MA is the place for you. This establishment boasts an impressive range of comics and trading cards, as well as a third-floor board game cafe called Pixel Paradise. At this cafe, you’ll find a variety of gaming options including VR, Smash Ultimate, and PC gaming, making it the ideal spot to catch up with friends while snacking on some tasty treats. The menu is inspired by comics and offers a selection of bar-style cuisine such as falafel, fries, burgers, and donuts. Although some customers have expressed concerns about the food and drink policy, the space itself is modern, spacious, and impeccably clean. Overall, Omar’s World Of Comics And Hobbies is a top-notch local business that consistently delivers warm and friendly service. Whether you’re a comic enthusiast or just looking for a fun spot to hang out with friends, this is the perfect place to enjoy interesting food and play games.

Pros:

  • Impressive range of comics and trading cards
  • Third-floor board game cafe with VR, Smash Ultimate, and PC gaming
  • Menu inspired by comics with bar-style cuisine
  • Modern, spacious, and impeccably clean space

Cons:

  • Some customers have expressed concerns about the food and drink policy

OUR RATING: Omar’s World Of Comics And Hobbies

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 8/10 – A wide range of gaming options including VR, Smash Ultimate, and PC gaming.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: 7/10 – Inspired by comics, the menu offers a selection of bar-style cuisine such as falafel, fries, burgers, and donuts.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 7/10 – Prices are reasonable for both food and gaming options.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Modern, spacious, and impeccably clean space with a great ambiance.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Consistently delivers warm and friendly service with helpful staff.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 8/10 – Ideal for comic enthusiasts and gamers looking for a fun spot to hang out with friends. May not be ideal for those looking for a quiet or romantic atmosphere.

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Option #5. TJ Cafe & Games

Address: 146 South Main St Milford, MA 01757 Phone: (508) 404-8245

Game Selection: Broad selection of games
Location: Conveniently located in Milford
Safety Measures: Adheres to COVID-19 protocols
Customer Service: Welcoming and prompt service

Are you on the hunt for a spot to indulge in a cup of coffee, engage in some board games, and have a blast? TJ Cafe & Games located in Milford, MA is the perfect destination for you. This location is rated 5-stars and has everything you need. The cafe boasts a vast menu with delectable food and coffee from well-known brands such as Ice Cream Machine, Cheesecake Factory, and Nespresso. Additionally, the retail/gift shop offers a broad selection of board games, card games, and collectibles that are available for purchase. The venue is spacious with large tables to accommodate events or larger crowds, but it also has several cozy seating areas for a small group or a couple to enjoy a game and food/beverage from the Cafe. Although there are limited reviews, the ones that do exist praise the welcoming service, prompt service, and fantastic ambiance. The only possible drawback is that the cafe may become crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to plan accordingly. All in all, TJ Cafe & Games is a must-visit location for anyone seeking a fun and distinctive experience in Massachusetts.

Pros:

  • 5-star rated cafe with a vast menu of delectable food and coffee from well-known brands
  • Retail/gift shop offers a broad selection of board games, card games, and collectibles for purchase
  • Spacious venue with large tables to accommodate events or larger crowds, and cozy seating areas for a small group or a couple
  • Welcoming service, prompt service, and fantastic ambiance

Cons:

  • Cafe may become crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to plan accordingly

OUR RATING: TJ Cafe & Games

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 9/10 – Broad selection of board games and collectibles available for purchase, perfect for game enthusiasts.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: 8/10 – Delectable food and coffee from well-known brands, but prices may be slightly higher.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 7/10 – Prices may be slightly higher, but cover charges and game rental fees are not mentioned.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Spacious venue with large tables and cozy seating areas, fantastic ambiance, and cleanliness.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Welcoming and prompt service, knowledgeable staff, and adherence to safety protocols.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 8.4/10 – Ideal for game enthusiasts looking for a fun and distinctive experience, but may not be ideal for those on a tight budget.

Option #6. Untapped Games

Address: 545 Pawtucket Ave Ste A205 Pawtucket, RI 02860 Phone: (401) 368-1619

Game Selection: Vast selection for everyone
Location: Located in Pawtucket, RI
Safety Measures: Mandatory masks, secure gaming
Customer Service: Knowledgeable and amicable staff

Untapped Games, located in Pawtucket, RI, is a haven for those who love board games. They offer a vast selection of trading card games such as Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Pokemon, as well as board games like Ticket to Ride, King of Tokyo, and Agricola, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The staff is knowledgeable and amicable, and they organize free weekly tournaments for Magic: the Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG. The store has a bright, tidy, and inviting ambiance, making it the ideal location for a relaxed game night with friends. Although the store only accepts credit cards, they provide private parking lots and bike parking. The only drawback is that masks are mandatory, but it’s a minor inconvenience for a pleasurable and secure gaming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a beginner, Untapped Games is the perfect place to unleash your inner geek.

Pros:

  • Vast selection of trading card and board games for all interests
  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff
  • Free weekly tournaments for Magic: the Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG
  • Bright, tidy, and inviting ambiance for a relaxed game night with friends

Cons:

  • Only accepts credit cards
  • Masks are mandatory, which may be inconvenient for some customers

OUR RATING: Untapped Games

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 9/10 – Untapped Games offers a vast selection of board games and trading card games, ensuring there is something for everyone.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: N/A – No information provided about food and beverage offerings.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 8/10 – The overall cost of playing games is reasonable, with no cover charge and game rental fees starting at $5. However, no information provided about food and drink prices.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The store has a bright, tidy, and inviting ambiance, making it the ideal location for a relaxed game night with friends.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 10/10 – The staff is knowledgeable, amicable, and adheres to safety protocols, ensuring a pleasurable and secure gaming experience.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 9/10 – Untapped Games is best for board game and trading card game enthusiasts who value a knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere. It may not be ideal for those who prefer a wider selection of food and beverage options.

Option #7. Back Again Board Game Cafe

Address: 484 Main St Ste 11 Middletown, CT 06457 Phone: (860) 854-6524

Game Selection: 800+ games, all levels
Location: Middletown, CT, wheelchair accessible
Safety Measures: Fully vaccinated staff, masks mandatory
Customer Service: Welcoming staff, cozy ambiance

If you’re searching for a family-friendly establishment to indulge in some coffee, tea, and snacks while engaging in board games, then look no further than Back Again Board Game Cafe situated in Middletown, CT. This cafe boasts a collection of over 800 games that cater to all levels, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The games are arranged by player count and type, with color-coding to make it easier to find the perfect game for your group. The staff is fully vaccinated, and masks are mandatory, guaranteeing a secure and pleasurable experience for all. Even though there is no outdoor seating, the cafe is wheelchair accessible and provides free Wi-Fi. The flat rate to play games for as long as you want is a fantastic bargain, and the cafe accepts credit cards and offers takeout. The only drawback is that there is no delivery or waiter service, but the welcoming staff and cozy ambiance more than compensate for it. All in all, Back Again Board Game Cafe is an excellent option for a laid-back Sunday afternoon activity or a fun night out with friends.

Pros:

  • Over 800 games available for all levels
  • Color-coded games arranged by player count and type
  • Fully vaccinated staff and mandatory mask policy
  • Flat rate to play games for as long as you want

Cons:

  • No outdoor seating
  • No delivery or waiter service

OUR RATING: Back Again Board Game Cafe

๐ŸŽฒ GAME LIBRARY: 9/10 – Over 800 games for all levels, arranged by player count and type, with color-coding for easy selection.
๐Ÿ” FOOD & BEVERAGE: 7/10 – Coffee, tea, snacks, and takeout available. Prices are reasonable.
๐Ÿ’ฐ AFFORDABILITY: 9/10 – Flat rate to play games for as long as you want is a fantastic bargain. Credit cards accepted.
๐Ÿ  ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – Cozy ambiance, free Wi-Fi, and wheelchair accessible. No outdoor seating.
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ CUSTOMER SERVICE: 9/10 – Fully vaccinated staff, mandatory masks, and friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable service.

๐Ÿ’ฏ OVERALL SCORE: 8.4/10 – Ideal for families and groups looking for a fun and affordable board game experience. Not ideal for those looking for a full-service restaurant or delivery options.

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Conclusion

Board game cafes in Massachusetts offer a unique and exciting experience for customers looking to disconnect from their phones and spend quality time with friends and family. From The Castle’s expansive game library to Leavitt & Peirce Tobacco’s chess parlor, these businesses provide a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned board game enthusiast or a newcomer to the hobby, these cafes offer a wide selection of games and knowledgeable staff to help you find the perfect match. Additionally, many of these businesses offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, private parking, and even catering for events. So next time you’re looking for a fun and engaging activity, consider visiting a board game cafe in Massachusetts. Thank you for taking the time to learn about these exciting businesses!

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