Looking for a fun and unique way to spend your time in New Mexico? Look no further than the board game cafes scattered throughout the state! These cafes offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while playing your favorite board games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun night out with friends, these cafes have something for everyone. From Slice and Dice Pizzeria’s wide variety of pizzas and unopened board games for sale, to Empire Board Game Library’s huge selection of games to play by the hour, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to satisfy your board game cravings. And don’t forget to check out Kawaii Boba-Cafe, Rebel House Coffee, and TeaSu Drinks & Desserts for some delicious drinks and desserts to fuel your gaming adventures. Keep reading to learn more about our favorite picks for board game cafes in New Mexico!
🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:
***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Empire Board Game Library. With a huge variety of board games and knowledgeable staff, this place is perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. The pricing is reasonable and the cafe items are delicious, making it a great choice for any board game enthusiast. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional cafe experience, Slice and Dice Pizzeria is a great 1st-runner up with delicious pizza and a family-friendly atmosphere. Overall, Empire Board Game Library is still the superior option for a unique and enjoyable experience.
🏅 Best By Category:
TOP AMENITIES: Empire Board Game Library – With a huge variety of board games and a knowledgeable staff, this place offers a unique and fun experience for all ages. Plus, they have a cafe with good sandwiches and drinks to keep you fueled up for hours of gaming.
BEST FOR QUIET GAMING: Windmill Tea House – This cute boba shop offers a cozy and quiet atmosphere, perfect for studying or playing board games with friends. Plus, their customizable drinks are delicious and not too sweet.
GREAT FOR LARGE GROUPS: Slice and Dice Pizzeria – With a wide variety of pizzas and toppings, this family-friendly pizzeria has something for everyone. Plus, their unopened board games for sale make it easy to find a game that everyone in your group will enjoy.
How We Are Rating These Locations:
1) 🍴 FOOD QUALITY: The quality of the food served, including taste, freshness, and variety.
2) 🎲 GAME SELECTION: The variety and availability of board games to play.
3) 🍹 DRINK SELECTION: The variety and quality of drinks, including boba tea, coffee, and other beverages.
4) 💰 PRICING: The value for money, including the cost of games, food, and drinks.
5) 🏬 ATMOSPHERE: The overall ambiance and environment of the board game cafe, including cleanliness, decor, and customer service.
Board game cafes in New Mexico offer a unique experience for customers looking for a fun and engaging way to spend their time. When evaluating these types of businesses, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the variety and quality of board games available is crucial. Customers want to have access to a wide range of games, from classics to newer releases, and they want them to be in good condition. Additionally, the atmosphere of the cafe is important. It should be welcoming and comfortable, with plenty of seating and a relaxed vibe. Customer service is also key, as staff should be knowledgeable about the games and able to assist with any questions or issues. Finally, the food and drink offerings should be tasty and reasonably priced. Overall, board game cafes provide a unique and enjoyable experience for customers, and these considerations can help ensure a satisfying visit.
Additional Criteria:
- Menu Variety – Wide range of food and drink options
- Customer Service – Friendly and attentive staff
- Game Selection – Large collection of board games available
- Ambience – Cozy and inviting atmosphere
Option #1. Slice and Dice Pizzeria
Address: 5720 McMahon Blvd NW suite b, Albuquerque, NM 87114, United States Phone: +1 505-361-2058
Menu Variety: Vegetarian and vegan options
Customer Service: Courteous and helpful staff
Game Selection: Free-to-play board games
Ambience: Warm and inviting atmosphere
Slice and Dice Pizzeria, situated in Albuquerque, NM, is a business owned by Latino and women entrepreneurs. They provide a range of services, including curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, takeout, dine-in, and catering. Additionally, the pizzeria is wheelchair accessible and has restrooms that are gender-neutral. Customers can indulge in a variety of comfort foods, including vegetarian and vegan options, and can even engage in board games while they dine. Reviews are glowing about the delectable pizza and amiable staff, with many customers appreciating the complimentary board games. However, some customers have observed that during peak hours, the wait times can be lengthy. Overall, Slice and Dice Pizzeria is an excellent location for a relaxed evening out with friends or family, and a fantastic venue for board game enthusiasts seeking a fun and unique dining experience.
Pros:
- Owned by Latino and women entrepreneurs
- Provides a range of services, including curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, takeout, dine-in, and catering
- Wheelchair accessible and has gender-neutral restrooms
- Offers vegetarian and vegan options and complimentary board games
Cons:
- Wait times can be lengthy during peak hours
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 9/10 – The food is delicious, fresh, and has a variety of options including vegetarian and vegan.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 8/10 – There is a good selection of free-to-play games and staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 7/10 – There is a decent selection of drinks including beer, but nothing exceptional.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food, drinks, and games.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The ambiance is cozy and family-friendly with good customer service and cleanliness.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.2/10 – Best for families, groups, and board game enthusiasts. May not be ideal for those looking for a high-end dining experience or extensive drink menu.
Option #2. Kawaii Boba-Cafe
- Wait times can be lengthy during peak hours
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 9/10 – The food is delicious, fresh, and has a variety of options including vegetarian and vegan.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 8/10 – There is a good selection of free-to-play games and staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 7/10 – There is a decent selection of drinks including beer, but nothing exceptional.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food, drinks, and games.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – The ambiance is cozy and family-friendly with good customer service and cleanliness.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.2/10 – Best for families, groups, and board game enthusiasts. May not be ideal for those looking for a high-end dining experience or extensive drink menu.
Option #2. Kawaii Boba-Cafe
Address: 3200 La Orilla Rd NW e, Albuquerque, NM 87120, United States Phone: +1 505-508-0601
Menu Variety: Large variety of food and drink options
Customer Service: Friendly and attentive staff
Game Selection: No information provided
Ambience: Cozy and inviting atmosphere
Kawaii Boba-Cafe, located in Albuquerque, is a delightful establishment that provides a variety of conveniences such as al fresco seating, delivery, takeout, and dine-in alternatives. The cafe boasts an impressive tea collection, serves comforting cuisine, and offers quick nibbles, petite dishes, and sweets. It’s an ideal destination for solo dining, laptop work, or group gatherings. The cafe is accessible for individuals who use wheelchairs and accepts debit cards, NFC mobile payments, and credit cards. Although some patrons have encountered issues with the boba’s texture and the cluttered counter space, the majority of evaluations commend the scrumptious fare, delightful beverages, and amiable personnel. All in all, Kawaii Boba-Cafe is a superb locale to grab a bite, socialize with pals, or engage in a project while savoring some delectable food and drinks.
Pros:
- Offers al fresco seating, delivery, takeout, and dine-in options
- Impressive tea collection and comforting cuisine
- Accessible for individuals who use wheelchairs and accepts debit cards, NFC mobile payments, and credit cards
- Ideal for solo dining, laptop work, or group gatherings
Cons:
- Some patrons have encountered issues with the boba’s texture
- Cluttered counter space needs some attention
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 8/10 – Delicious food with large portions for the price, but some items were not fresh.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Great selection of drinks, especially boba tea, with some unique options.
💰 PRICING: 9/10 – Affordable prices for food and drinks with large portions.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – Cute and cozy atmosphere with friendly staff, but some reviewers noted clutter and lack of cleanliness.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for those looking for affordable and delicious food and drinks in a cute and cozy atmosphere, but may not be ideal for those who prioritize cleanliness and organization.
Option #3. Rebel House Coffee
- Some patrons have encountered issues with the boba’s texture
- Cluttered counter space needs some attention
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 8/10 – Delicious food with large portions for the price, but some items were not fresh.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Great selection of drinks, especially boba tea, with some unique options.
💰 PRICING: 9/10 – Affordable prices for food and drinks with large portions.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 8/10 – Cute and cozy atmosphere with friendly staff, but some reviewers noted clutter and lack of cleanliness.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for those looking for affordable and delicious food and drinks in a cute and cozy atmosphere, but may not be ideal for those who prioritize cleanliness and organization.
Option #3. Rebel House Coffee
Address: 4250 Cerrillos Rd Suite 1116, Santa Fe, NM 87507, United States Phone: +1 505-819-1037
Menu Variety: Good food and drink options
Customer Service: Friendly and attentive staff
Game Selection: No information provided
Ambience: Cozy and inviting atmosphere
Rebel House Coffee, situated in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a haven for coffee enthusiasts. This trendy and cozy cafe offers a range of conveniences such as takeout, dine-in, delivery, and complimentary Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for individuals, families, and visitors. The cafe boasts an impressive selection of coffee and tea, as well as comfort food, prepared foods, breakfast, lunch, and dessert. The second-floor lounge area is perfect for indulging in a good book or working on your laptop. The staff is welcoming and obliging, and the decor is quirky and enjoyable. Though seating can be limited on occasion, the overall experience is well worth it. Rebel House Coffee is an excellent location to sip on a cup of coffee, socialize with friends, or complete some work.
Pros:
- Offers takeout, dine-in, and delivery options
- Complimentary Wi-Fi available
- Impressive selection of coffee, tea, comfort food, and desserts
- Second-floor lounge area for reading or working
Cons:
- Seating can be limited at times
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: N/A – No information provided about food quality.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided about game selection.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Great coffee and drink selection, including boba tea and specialty beverages.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Reasonable prices for coffee, food, and drinks.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy and hip atmosphere with friendly and welcoming staff. Wheelchair accessible and free Wi-Fi.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for coffee and drink lovers looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. May not be ideal for those looking for a large food menu or extensive game selection.
Option #4. TeaSu Drinks & Desserts
- Seating can be limited at times
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: N/A – No information provided about food quality.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided about game selection.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Great coffee and drink selection, including boba tea and specialty beverages.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Reasonable prices for coffee, food, and drinks.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy and hip atmosphere with friendly and welcoming staff. Wheelchair accessible and free Wi-Fi.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for coffee and drink lovers looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. May not be ideal for those looking for a large food menu or extensive game selection.
Option #4. TeaSu Drinks & Desserts
Address: 5010 Cutler Ave NE C, Albuquerque, NM 87110, United States Phone: +1 505-433-1351
Menu Variety: Good tea and dessert selection
Customer Service: Welcoming and friendly staff
Game Selection: Arcade games and board games
Ambience: Cozy and inviting atmosphere
TeaSu Drinks & Desserts is an excellent destination for individuals seeking a comfortable and informal board game cafe experience in Albuquerque. The establishment provides a vast array of conveniences, such as curbside pickup, delivery, takeout, dine-in, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The quality of the tea selection and desserts is exceptional, and the personnel are amiable and hospitable. The inclusion of arcade games and game boards contributes to the lively ambiance, rendering it an ideal location for groups, families, and college students. Although some patrons have encountered difficulties with boba availability, the enterprise has taken measures to rectify this by producing their own boba on-site. In general, TeaSu Drinks & Desserts is a fantastic venue to enjoy a beverage, dessert, and engage in some friendly competition with loved ones.
Pros:
- Offers curbside pickup, delivery, takeout, and dine-in options
- Provides complimentary Wi-Fi and a lively ambiance with arcade games and game boards
- Exceptional quality of tea selection and desserts
- Amiable and hospitable personnel
Cons:
- Some patrons have encountered difficulties with boba availability
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 8/10 – Positive reviews for desserts and bingsu, but limited vegan options.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – Nothing mentioned about a game selection.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Positive reviews for tea, coffee, and boba drinks.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Some reviewers found the prices reasonable, while others found them overpriced.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Positive reviews for cleanliness, decor, and customer service.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for those looking for a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a variety of tea, coffee, and boba drinks and desserts. May not be ideal for vegans or those looking for a large game selection.
Option #5. Windmill Tea House
- Some patrons have encountered difficulties with boba availability
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 8/10 – Positive reviews for desserts and bingsu, but limited vegan options.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – Nothing mentioned about a game selection.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Positive reviews for tea, coffee, and boba drinks.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Some reviewers found the prices reasonable, while others found them overpriced.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Positive reviews for cleanliness, decor, and customer service.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for those looking for a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a variety of tea, coffee, and boba drinks and desserts. May not be ideal for vegans or those looking for a large game selection.
Option #5. Windmill Tea House
Address: 11200 Montgomery Blvd NE Suite 22, Albuquerque, NM 87111, United States Phone: +1 505-361-2569
Menu Variety: Great tea selection
Customer Service: Super friendly staff
Game Selection: Offers board games
Ambience: Cute and cozy atmosphere
For those seeking a warm ambiance and an impressive tea selection, Windmill Tea House is a destination not to be missed. This establishment offers a variety of services, including curbside pickup, delivery, takeout, dine-in, and speedy service, making it ideal for solo diners, wheelchair users, and groups alike. The staff is exceptionally accommodating and welcoming, and patrons rave about the customizable beverages. Although the menu is limited, the staff is always eager to assist in finding the perfect drink to suit individual preferences. The only drawback is that the shop can become crowded, resulting in longer wait times. Overall, Windmill Tea House is a fantastic choice for college students, tourists, and anyone searching for a laid-back, trendy environment to savor a delicious beverage.
Pros:
- Offers curbside pickup, delivery, takeout, dine-in, and speedy service
- Exceptionally accommodating and welcoming staff
- Customizable beverages
- Ideal for solo diners, wheelchair users, and groups alike
Cons:
- Limited menu
- Crowded shop can result in longer wait times
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: N/A – No information provided.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wide variety of customizable drinks with fresh fruit and good boba options.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Reasonable pricing for quality drinks and food.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy, casual, and hip atmosphere with friendly staff and clean decor.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for students, groups, and tourists looking for a cute and cozy spot to enjoy customizable drinks and desserts. May not be ideal for those looking for a full meal or a quiet study spot.
Option #6. Empire Board Game Library
- Limited menu
- Crowded shop can result in longer wait times
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: N/A – No information provided.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: N/A – No information provided.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Wide variety of customizable drinks with fresh fruit and good boba options.
💰 PRICING: 8/10 – Reasonable pricing for quality drinks and food.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Cozy, casual, and hip atmosphere with friendly staff and clean decor.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10 – Best for students, groups, and tourists looking for a cute and cozy spot to enjoy customizable drinks and desserts. May not be ideal for those looking for a full meal or a quiet study spot.
Option #6. Empire Board Game Library
Address: 3503 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States Phone: +1 505-232-4263
Menu Variety: Good food and drink options
Customer Service: Helpful and friendly staff
Game Selection: Large collection of board games
Ambience: Cozy and inviting atmosphere
Empire Board Game Library is an exceptional idea that ought to be present in every urban center. The establishment showcases an extensive array of board games, an entrance and parking lot that is accessible to individuals using wheelchairs, restrooms that are gender-neutral, and a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community. The personnel is well-informed and accommodating, and the prices are reasonable. The cafe provides delectable cuisine and beverages, including a superb hot cocoa and seasonal selections. Nonetheless, the arrangement can be somewhat crowded, and the prices may be a tad steep for certain patrons. All in all, Empire Board Game Library is an excellent spot to spend time with companions and loved ones, experiment with new games, and savor scrumptious food and drinks. It is ideal for a romantic outing, a get-together with friends, or club games.
Pros:
- Extensive array of board games
- Accessible entrance and parking lot
- Welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community
- Well-informed and accommodating personnel
Cons:
- Crowded arrangement
- Prices might not be suitable for all budgets
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 8/10 – Good sandwiches and desserts, but some complaints about pricing.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 10/10 – Huge variety of games to play and purchase.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Delicious drinks, including seasonal options.
💰 PRICING: 7/10 – Hourly rate for games is reasonable, but some complaints about food and drink prices.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Friendly and knowledgeable staff, comfortable surroundings, and a great vibe.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Best for board game enthusiasts looking for a wide selection of games and a welcoming atmosphere. May not be ideal for those on a tight budget.
More About The State
- Crowded arrangement
- Prices might not be suitable for all budgets
🍴 FOOD QUALITY: 8/10 – Good sandwiches and desserts, but some complaints about pricing.
🎲 GAME SELECTION: 10/10 – Huge variety of games to play and purchase.
🍹 DRINK SELECTION: 9/10 – Delicious drinks, including seasonal options.
💰 PRICING: 7/10 – Hourly rate for games is reasonable, but some complaints about food and drink prices.
🏬 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 – Friendly and knowledgeable staff, comfortable surroundings, and a great vibe.
💯 OVERALL SCORE: 8.6/10 – Best for board game enthusiasts looking for a wide selection of games and a welcoming atmosphere. May not be ideal for those on a tight budget.
More About The State
New Mexico is so much more than just a board game cafe destination. This Southwestern state boasts a diverse landscape, from forested mountains to arid deserts, and is home to several notable landmarks and cultural attractions. Explore the Rio Grande and its fertile valley, which runs from north-to-south and supports a bosque habitat and distinct Albuquerque Basin climate. Visit the White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, and the Rio Grande Gorge and Bridge for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. New Mexico’s history has contributed to its unique demographic and cultural character, with a large Hispanic population and several indigenous communities. Discover the state’s rich history by visiting the ancient Puebloan villages, Spanish settlements, and the sites of the Manhattan Project. With its diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences, New Mexico is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Come and experience the Land of Enchantment for yourself!
POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:
🦇 – Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Explore the underground landscape of nearly 120 known caves, carved from limestone deposited in an ancient sea. Take self-guided audio tours or ranger-led tours, experience bat tours, trips to specific caves, and walks through the outlandish geological formations.
🏜️ – White Sands National Monument: Marvel at the gleaming white gypsum sand dunes up to 60 feet high, constantly displaced by the wind. Enjoy sledding with round plastic saucers or any plastic snow sled. Take the 16-mile scenic Dunes Drive to get a feel for the vastness of the park, and stop at hiking trails, picnic tables, and exhibits.
🎈 – Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: Witness the world’s largest hot air balloon festival, with more than 500 balloons participating in unique displays of coordinated ballooning and nighttime presentations. Enjoy kids’ activities, live musicians, a juried craft show, and dozens of street performers among the numerous vendors.
🏞️ – Bandelier National Monument: Explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes and archaeological ruins of the former home of ancestral Pueblo people, occupied from AD 1150 to 1600. Visit structures such as masonry walls and dwellings carved from volcanic rock, as well as petroglyphs that illustrate the Pueblo culture and daily life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, board game cafes in New Mexico offer a unique and enjoyable experience for customers. Not only do they provide a wide variety of board games to choose from, but they also offer delicious food and drinks. These cafes are perfect for families, friends, or even solo gamers looking for a fun and engaging way to spend their time. One important tip to keep in mind is to check the cafe’s website or call ahead to ensure they have the game you want to play in stock. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to arrive early to secure a table, especially during peak hours. Overall, board game cafes in New Mexico are a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and memorable experience. Thank you for taking the time to read this review, and we hope you enjoy your next visit to a board game cafe in New Mexico!