Board Game Cafes in Minnesota: Top Spots to Dice &Dine

Looking for a fun and unique way to spend your weekend in Minnesota? Look no further than board game cafes! These cafes offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious coffee, tea, smoothies, and snacks while playing your favorite tabletop games with friends. From Lodestone Coffee and Games LLC to The Battleground Cafe, Gamezenter, Sojourners Cafe, Lost Fox, and FRGMNT Coffee – St. Anthony Main, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best board game cafes in Minnesota. So grab your friends and get ready for a fun-filled day of gaming and caffeine! Read on to learn more about each of these amazing cafes.

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is The Battleground Cafe. With consistently positive reviews praising the friendly staff, great atmosphere, and free gaming space, The Battleground Cafe is the clear winner for board game cafes in Minnesota. It’s perfect for a date night or hanging out with friends, and their unique snack and drink options add to the experience. However, if you’re looking for a more Christian-focused atmosphere, Sojourners Cafe may be a better fit. But overall, The Battleground Cafe’s combination of great gaming space and welcoming environment make it the superior choice.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🎲 GAMING SPACE: The size, layout, and availability of gaming tables and games for customers to play.
2) ☕️ FOOD AND DRINK: The quality, variety, and pricing of food and drink options offered.
3) 🏆 COMMUNITY AND STAFF: The friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness of the staff, as well as the sense of community and inclusivity fostered by the business.
4) 📍 LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY: The convenience and accessibility of the business’s location, including parking and public transportation options.
5) 💰 VALUE AND PRICING: The perceived value and fairness of pricing for products and services offered.

Board game cafes in Minnesota offer a unique experience for customers looking for a fun and engaging way to spend their time. When considering a board game cafe, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the quality of the games available is key. A good selection of games, both classic and new, is important to keep customers coming back. Additionally, the atmosphere of the cafe is crucial. A cozy and inviting space with plenty of seating options can make all the difference. Friendly and knowledgeable staff can also enhance the experience. And of course, the quality of the coffee and food offerings should not be overlooked. Overall, a board game cafe should provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for customers to relax and have fun. So whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for a new way to spend an afternoon, a board game cafe in Minnesota might just be the perfect spot for you.

Additional Criteria:

• Atmosphere – Description of the overall vibe and ambiance of the establishment
• Game Selection – Variety and availability of board games for customers to play
• Quality of Coffee/Drinks – Taste and quality of coffee and other beverages served
• Friendliness of Staff – Attitude and helpfulness of the employees towards customers

Option #1. Lodestone Coffee and Games LLC

Address: 10982 Cedar Lk Rd S, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States Phone: +1 952-657-5226

Atmosphere: Spacious and welcoming gaming cafe.
Game Selection: Large variety of board games.
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Mixed reviews on drinks.
Friendliness of Staff: Mixed reviews on staff.

Lodestone Coffee and Games LLC is a board game cafe situated in Minnetonka, Minnesota, that is both spacious and wheelchair accessible. The cafe provides a range of options such as in-store pickup, in-store shopping, and delivery, as well as quick visits and mobile payments. Customers can indulge in a diverse selection of coffee, tea, and smoothie options, as well as a vast array of board games and Magic cards. The staff is knowledgeable and accommodating, and the ambiance is ideal for gaming enthusiasts. Nevertheless, a few patrons have observed that the coffee and pastries may not be the finest, and the staff can occasionally appear aloof. In general, Lodestone is an excellent destination for gamers and board game aficionados seeking a fun and inviting atmosphere to socialize and play games with friends.

Pros:

• Spacious and wheelchair accessible location
• Offers in-store pickup, in-store shopping, delivery, quick visits, and mobile payments
• Diverse selection of coffee, tea, smoothie options, board games, and Magic cards
• Knowledgeable and accommodating staff

Cons:

• Coffee and pastries may not be the finest
• Staff can occasionally appear aloof

Option #2. The Battleground Cafe

Address: 2008 Co Rd E East, White Bear Lake, MN 55110, United States Phone: +1 651-756-1401

Atmosphere: Warm and welcoming environment
Game Selection: Large and diverse collection
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Tasty and excellent selection
Friendliness of Staff: Helpful and knowledgeable staff

If you’re a fan of board games, then you absolutely have to check out The Battleground Cafe in White Bear Lake, MN. This place offers a variety of ways to get your hands on the latest games, including in-store pickup, in-store shopping, and delivery options. What’s more, the cafe is fully accessible to wheelchair users and boasts a spacious gaming area with plenty of tables and a demo rack. The staff here are not only friendly, but also extremely knowledgeable, making it a great place for both beginners and seasoned gamers. And if you’re feeling peckish, the cafe also serves up a range of unique snacks and craft sodas. While it can get busy at times, with some customers noting that it can be difficult to grab the attention of staff, the overall experience at The Battleground Cafe is truly top-notch. Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon with friends or a romantic date night, this place is the perfect spot. And when it comes to other board game cafes in Minnesota, The Battleground Cafe really stands out thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and community-focused events.

Pros:

• Offers in-store pickup, in-store shopping, and delivery options for board games
• Fully accessible to wheelchair users with a spacious gaming area and demo rack
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff, great for both beginners and seasoned gamers
• Serves unique snacks and craft sodas

Cons:

• Can get busy at times, making it difficult to grab the attention of staff

Option #3. Gamezenter

Address: 1975 County Road B2 W, Roseville, MN 55113, United States Phone: +1 651-379-3801

Atmosphere: Cool and spacious
Game Selection: Large and diverse
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Good selection and taste
Friendliness of Staff: Helpful and friendly

Gamezenter, a Roseville-based board game cafe, is an exceptional destination for board game enthusiasts. The establishment provides a range of conveniences, such as in-store pickup, delivery, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The personnel are amicable and well-informed, and the cuisine is delectable. The collection of games is vast, and the venue has ample room for private events. Nevertheless, the $10 daypass charge could be a source of concern for some patrons, particularly those who are simply looking to unwind and play games. All in all, Gamezenter is an outstanding spot to socialize with friends and engage in board games, and it’s especially ideal for those who want to experiment with new games before purchasing them. It’s a must-see destination for anyone intrigued by board game cafes in Minnesota.

Pros:

• Convenient in-store pickup and delivery options
• Friendly and knowledgeable personnel
• Delicious cuisine
• Vast collection of games and ample space for private events

Cons:

• $10 daypass charge may deter some patrons
• Not ideal for those solely looking to unwind and play games

Option #4. Sojourners Cafe

Address: 1406 White Bear Ave, St Paul, MN 55106, United States Phone: +1 651-771-9614

Atmosphere: Cozy Christian cafe
Game Selection: Not mentioned
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Mixed reviews
Friendliness of Staff: Mixed reviews

Sojourners Cafe, situated in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a one-of-a-kind establishment that offers a range of amenities such as al fresco seating, takeout, dine-in, and delivery options. The cafe is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it an ideal destination for groups and families with children. Although the cafe has a Christian focus, it welcomes all visitors and provides a warm and relaxed ambiance for patrons to enjoy. One of the standout features of Sojourners Cafe is its donation-based pricing, which enables customers to pay what they can afford for their beverages and snacks. However, some customers have observed that the cafe’s hours can be erratic and that it may not always exude a conventional coffee shop vibe. Nonetheless, Sojourners Cafe is an excellent choice for those seeking a distinctive and hospitable environment to savor a cup of coffee or tea, catch up with friends, or even conduct a Bible study. As a board game cafe, Sojourners Cafe may not offer as many gaming options as some other venues, but its cozy and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a laid-back game night with friends.

Pros:

• Offers al fresco seating, takeout, dine-in, and delivery options
• Family-friendly and wheelchair accessible
• Donation-based pricing, allowing customers to pay what they can afford
• Warm and relaxed ambiance, ideal for catching up with friends or conducting a Bible study

Cons:

• Erratic hours of operation
• May not have a conventional coffee shop vibe
• Limited gaming options compared to other board game cafes

Option #5. Lost Fox

Address: 213 4th St E #100, St Paul, MN 55101, United States Phone: +1 651-493-4694

Atmosphere: Cozy, hip, family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly
Game Selection: Board games available
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Great coffee, great tea selection, good drinks
Friendliness of Staff: Friendly, helpful staff

Lost Fox, situated in St. Paul, Minnesota, is an exceptional cafe that boasts a diverse range of offerings. These include contactless delivery, curbside pickup, takeout, dine-in, and an impressive selection of coffee and tea. Additionally, they provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as catering and counter service. The ambiance is welcoming, trendy, and family-oriented, with an abundance of seating options and complimentary Wi-Fi. While some patrons have mentioned that the food can be inconsistent, the staff is amiable and hospitable, and the overall experience is gratifying. Lost Fox is an ideal location for individual dining, studying, or spending time with loved ones. If you’re searching for a board game cafe in Minnesota, Lost Fox is unquestionably worth a visit.

Pros:

• Offers diverse range of options, including contactless delivery, curbside pickup, takeout, dine-in, and catering.
• Provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as an impressive selection of coffee and tea.
• Ambiance is welcoming, trendy, and family-oriented, with an abundance of seating options and complimentary Wi-Fi.
• Ideal location for individual dining, studying, or spending time with loved ones.

Cons:

• Some patrons have mentioned that the food can be inconsistent.

Option #6. The Boiler Room Coffee Company

Address: 1830 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404, United States Phone: +1 612-354-4407

Atmosphere: Cozy, hip, casual, family-friendly
Game Selection: Huge wall of games
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Great coffee, great tea selection
Friendliness of Staff: Friendly, helpful, personable

The Minneapolis-based Boiler Room Coffee Company is an excellent establishment for indulging in coffee, tea, breakfast, lunch, and dessert. Patrons can relish in the cafe’s vast selection of board games while also enjoying the convenience of wheelchair accessibility. The welcoming staff is amiable and accommodating to the LGBTQ+ community, creating an inclusive environment for all. Although some customers have expressed concern over the prices, the quality of the coffee and cuisine is well worth the expense. All in all, The Boiler Room provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for solo diners, remote workers, or socializing with friends. It’s a top-notch choice for those seeking a board game cafe in Minnesota.

Pros:

• Offers a wide selection of coffee, tea, breakfast, lunch, and dessert.
• Provides a vast selection of board games for patrons to enjoy.
• Welcoming staff is amiable and accommodating to the LGBTQ+ community.
• Wheelchair accessible, creating an inclusive environment for all.

Cons:

• Some customers have expressed concern over the prices.

Option #7. FRGMNT Coffee – St. Anthony Main

Address: 43 SE Main St, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States Phone: +1 N/A

Atmosphere: Cozy, hip, casual, inviting, aesthetic
Game Selection: Some board games available
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Great coffee, great tea selection
Friendliness of Staff: Mixed reviews, some friendly

FRGMNT Coffee – St. Anthony Main is a trendy and comfortable coffee house situated at 43 SE Main St, Minneapolis, MN 55414. This establishment provides takeout, dine-in, and delivery options, and is renowned for its exceptional coffee and tea varieties. The atmosphere is well-lit, spacious, and welcoming, with ample seating choices for individuals or groups. Patrons can relish a swift snack or dessert while studying, working, or simply hanging out. The enterprise accepts debit cards, NFC mobile payments, and credit cards. Despite the location being stunning and extensive, the internet connection can be unreliable and parking is restricted to metered street parking on St. Anthony Main. Overall, FRGMNT Coffee is a superb destination for a brief respite from strolls in the vicinity, studying, or working. It’s an excellent addition to the board game cafe scene in Minnesota, providing a comfortable and visually pleasing area for customers to savor their coffee and tea.

Pros:

• Exceptional coffee and tea varieties
• Well-lit, spacious, and welcoming atmosphere with ample seating choices
• Provides takeout, dine-in, and delivery options
• Swift snack or dessert options available

Cons:

• Unreliable internet connection
• Restricted parking to metered street parking on St. Anthony Main

Option #8. Shakopee Brewhall – Brewery & Coffee House

Address: 124 1st Ave E, Shakopee, MN 55379, United States Phone: +1 952-582-4292

Atmosphere: Cozy, eclectic, inviting
Game Selection: Board games available
Quality of Coffee/Drinks: Delicious, high-quality brews
Friendliness of Staff: Friendly, knowledgeable, accommodating

Shakopee Brewhall, situated in Shakopee, Minnesota, is a coffee house and brewery that’s welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. The establishment offers curbside pickup, delivery, and a parking lot and entrance that’s accessible to those in wheelchairs. The selection of beers is impressive, with their darker and less hoppy options being the most popular. They also serve basic pub snacks and coffee, and customers can order food from nearby restaurants. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with board games and card games available for entertainment. Although some patrons have mentioned that the beer recipes or techniques could use some refinement, the staff is always friendly and accommodating. Shakopee Brewhall is a fantastic spot for individuals who love beer, own dogs, or want a laid-back and relaxed environment. As a board game cafe, it’s an excellent place for groups to gather and enjoy a brew while playing games.

Pros:

• Welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community
• Offers curbside pickup, delivery, and accessible entrance and parking
• Impressive selection of beers, with cozy and inviting atmosphere
• Board games and card games available for entertainment

Cons:

• Beer recipes or techniques could use some refinement according to some patrons

More About The State

Minnesota is more than just a hub for board game cafes. As the 32nd state, it boasts a plethora of natural beauty and a rich history. From the Dakota Sioux to the French explorers, Minnesota’s past is still visible today. Its topography was formed by glaciers thousands of years ago, resulting in deep lakes, dense forests, and rocky ridges. Minnesota is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer and venomous timber rattlesnakes. Additionally, the state is known for producing iron ore and manganese, and is home to the world’s largest mall, the Mall of America. With so much to discover, Minnesota is a must-see destination for those who love history, nature, and adventure. Come and explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes for yourself!

POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:

👑 – The Cathedral of St. Paul is a well-known pilgrimage destination and is referred to as the North Shrine of the Apostle Paul. It is a must-see for those who appreciate both architecture and history. The interior of the cathedral, which can accommodate up to 3000 people, boasts a Classical Renaissance design. Take a guided tour at 1 pm from Tuesday to Friday to learn more about the cathedral’s rich history.

👻 – The Old Schmidt Brewery is a must-visit for those who are fascinated by haunted places. The brewery is infamous for its connection to the Schmidt family’s cinematic history, which includes gangland kidnappings and random shootings. It is also known for the deaths of brewery workers, making it one of Minnesota’s most haunted places. If you’re too scared to drive back home, book an Airbnb several blocks away from the brewery to spend the night.

🛣️ – The North Shore Scenic Drive is the perfect destination for an extended family or friend’s trip. This national scenic byway runs along Minnesota State Highway 61 and follows the shore of Lake Superior all the way up to Thunder Bay in Canada. You’ll come across several top state parks along the way, including Grand Portage State Park, Superior National Forest, Tettegouche State Park, and Split Rock Lighthouse. The drive is aptly named, as it is lined with rocky cliffs, stunning views, and waterfalls.

🥾 – The Wolf Creeks Falls Trail is the ultimate hiking destination in Minnesota. You can begin your hike from the Quarry Nature Trail, which runs along the Kettle River. Along the way, you’ll also see the ruins of a sandstone quarry that was operational in the early

Conclusion

In conclusion, board game cafes in Minnesota offer a unique and enjoyable experience for customers. These cafes provide a welcoming atmosphere for tabletop gaming enthusiasts to gather and play their favorite games, while also offering delicious coffee, tea, smoothies, and snacks. With a variety of games to choose from, customers can try new games or play their old favorites. Additionally, these cafes often have spacious seating areas, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of outlets for customers to use. It’s important to note that while some cafes may have a limited food and drink menu, the focus is on the gaming experience. So, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to spend your time, be sure to check out a board game cafe in Minnesota. And remember, don’t be afraid to bring your own games to share with others. Thank you for taking the time to read this review, and we hope you have a great time exploring the world of board game cafes in Minnesota!