Board Game Cafes in Washington: Top-Rated Gaming Spots

If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to spend your time in Washington, why not check out some of the board game cafes in the area? These cafes offer a great way to unwind and connect with friends over a game of cards, board games, or even pen and paper games. From Zulu’s Board Game Cafe to Meeples Games, there are plenty of options to choose from, each with their own unique amenities and atmosphere. And if you’re looking for a break from gaming, you can always grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee at one of the nearby cafes, like Uptown Espresso in Belltown. So why not gather your friends and head out for a night of fun and games? Read on to learn more about our favorite board game cafes in Washington.

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Zulu’s Board Game Cafe. With a full kitchen, drinks, beer, and wine, Zulu’s offers a great variety of options for food and drink while enjoying a game. The space is family-friendly and offers indoor seating for large groups, tournaments, and smaller tabletops for 2-4. The covered deck area and uncovered patio provide additional space for private events and games. However, if you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Mox Boarding House – Bellevue may be a better fit. Despite this, Zulu’s Board Game Cafe remains the superior option due to its wider range of options and family-friendly atmosphere.

More About The State

Washington is more than just a hub for board game cafes. This state, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the Western United States, is a veritable treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and culture. With its rugged Pacific coastline, deep temperate rainforests, and mountain ranges, Washington is a paradise for those who love nature. Additionally, it is the biggest producer of apples, hops, and sweet cherries in the U.S., and is also highly ranked in the production of grapes and potatoes. But fret not, we haven’t neglected our top picks for board game cafes in Washington. Keep reading to learn more!

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🍽️ FOOD & BEVERAGE: This category evaluates the quality and variety of food and drinks offered by the board game cafe, including vegan and vegetarian options, beer and wine selection, and coffee quality.
2) 🎲 GAME SELECTION: This category evaluates the variety and availability of board games, card games, and other tabletop games, as well as the knowledge and expertise of staff in helping customers choose and play games.
3) 🚪 ATMOSPHERE & AMENITIES: This category evaluates the overall ambiance and comfort of the board game cafe, including seating options, noise level, parking availability, Wi-Fi access, and other amenities like outdoor seating and catering services.
4) 💰 AFFORDABILITY: This category evaluates the pricing and value of the board game cafe, including the cost of food and drinks, game rentals, and other services offered.
5) 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 COMMUNITY & EVENTS: This category evaluates the board game cafe’s role in fostering a sense of community among customers, including the frequency and quality of events like game nights, tournaments, and other social gatherings.

Board game cafes are a great place to unwind and have fun with friends and family. When considering a board game cafe, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the variety of games available is important. Some cafes have a large selection of games to choose from, while others may specialize in a certain type of game. Additionally, the atmosphere of the cafe is important. Some cafes may be more casual and family-friendly, while others may have a more upscale feel. It’s also important to consider the food and drink options available. Some cafes may offer a full menu with vegan and vegetarian options, while others may only offer snacks and drinks. Finally, the level of customer service and staff expertise can make a big difference in your experience. Some cafes may have staff who are knowledgeable about the games and can help you choose the perfect game for your group. Overall, board game cafes are a great way to spend time with loved ones and have a fun, engaging experience.

Additional Criteria:

• Seating Capacity – The number of people that can be accommodated in the cafe
• Noise Level – The level of noise in the cafe, which can affect the ambiance and atmosphere
• Food and Beverage Options – The variety and quality of food and drinks offered, including vegan and vegetarian options
• Gaming Options – The variety and availability of board games, card games, and other tabletop games for customers to play

Option #1. Zulu’s Board Game Cafe

Address: 10234 Main St Bothell, WA 98011 Phone: (425) 818-8122

Seating Capacity: Adequate for groups
Noise Level: Lively atmosphere
Food and Beverage Options: Diverse and delicious
Gaming Options: Variety of games available

Looking for a lively night out with loved ones? Zulu’s Board Game Cafe in Bothell, WA is the perfect destination. With a diverse assortment of games to choose from, and a staff that is both amiable and accommodating, you’re sure to have a great time. And let’s not forget about the food – with options like tater tot nachos and a Dragonborn burger, you’re in for a treat. Plus, the cafe boasts a variety of refreshing beers and a jam-packed events calendar. While some reviewers have mentioned that the staff can be inconsistent, Zulu’s remains a cozy and entertaining gaming spot. Keep in mind that the selection of board games available for purchase may be smaller than other stores. All in all, Zulu’s is an ideal location for a group outing or office gathering, and is a must-visit for those who enjoy games, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.

Pros:

• Diverse assortment of games to choose from
• Amiable and accommodating staff
• Delicious food options, including tater tot nachos and a Dragonborn burger
• Variety of refreshing beers and jam-packed events calendar

Cons:

• Inconsistent staff according to some reviewers
• Smaller selection of board games available for purchase compared to other stores

Option #2. Mox Boarding House – Bellevue

Address: 13310 Bel-Red Rd Bellevue, WA 98005 Phone: (425) 326-3050

Seating Capacity: Limited space available
Noise Level: Moderate noise level
Food and Beverage Options: Diverse menu, mediocre quality
Gaming Options: Extensive game selection, free to play

Mox Boarding House, situated in Bellevue, provides a distinctive and enjoyable culinary experience that blends delectable cuisine with an extensive assortment of card and board games. The establishment presents an array of plates that can be shared, such as Elote Corn Ribs, Roasted Garlic Hummus, and French Onion Poutine. The restaurant allows patrons to try out board games at no cost, making it an excellent location to socialize with friends and experiment with new games. The personnel are amiable, well-informed, and always ready to assist. Nevertheless, the prices on the menu can be extravagant, and the quality of the ingredients employed in the dishes can be mediocre. Additionally, the portion sizes may be insufficient for the price charged. Despite these drawbacks, Mox Boarding House is an ideal spot to grab a bite with friends while playing board games. It’s a perfect destination for gamers, geeks, or nerds of any persuasion.

Pros:

• Unique culinary experience combined with a vast selection of board games.
• Free board game trials, making it an excellent place to socialize with friends and try new games.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff always ready to assist.
• Ideal spot for gamers, geeks, or nerds of any persuasion.

Cons:

• Expensive menu prices.
• Insufficient portion sizes for the price charged.

Option #3. Blue Highway Games

Address: 2203 Queen Anne Ave N Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 282-0540

Seating Capacity: Adequate for groups
Noise Level: Moderate ambiance
Food and Beverage Options: Diverse, including snacks
Gaming Options: Large library, meetups

Blue Highway Games is a cafe in Seattle, WA that specializes in board games, jigsaw puzzles, and other similar activities. The employees are friendly and knowledgeable, and the cafe has a designated area for visitors to enjoy playing games. They also have a library of games with numerous tables that can be reserved for groups. On top of that, Blue Highway Games hosts meetups every Friday evening for people to play games together. The cafe offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic bottled drinks, as well as a variety of sweet and savory snacks. Unfortunately, the upstairs play area is currently closed for health reasons. All in all, Blue Highway Games is an excellent destination for board game enthusiasts and families looking for something different from the usual Monopoly. It’s a fantastic place to hang out with a great selection of games and is perfect for a rainy day in Seattle.

Pros:

• Friendly and knowledgeable employees
• Designated area for playing games
• Library of games with reserved tables for groups
• Hosts meetups every Friday evening

Cons:

• Upstairs play area currently closed for health reasons

Option #4. Cafe Kleo

Address: 19720 44th Ave W Ste K Lynnwood, WA 98087 Phone: (425) 361-1799

Seating Capacity: Limited seating, cozy atmosphere
Noise Level: Relaxed ambiance, low noise
Food and Beverage Options: Limited menu, exceptional quality
Gaming Options: Specializes in board games

Cafe Kleo, situated in Lynnwood, WA, is a cafe that specializes in board games and provides both delivery and takeout services. The cafe is celebrated for its well-liked dishes, such as the berry bubble waffle and brown sugar boba, in addition to its delectable desserts and accommodating personnel. The servings are substantial and the prices are a tad steep, but the quality is exceptional and not subpar. The cafe is immaculate and creates a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great location to socialize and converse with companions. Nevertheless, the menu is somewhat restricted and the bubble waffle itself was slightly unsatisfactory. All in all, Cafe Kleo is a fantastic destination for individuals seeking a sweet indulgence and an enjoyable hangout spot.

Pros:

• Specializes in board games
• Well-liked dishes and delectable desserts
• Accommodating personnel
• Immaculate and relaxed atmosphere

Cons:

• Menu is somewhat restricted
• Bubble waffle was slightly unsatisfactory
• Prices are a tad steep

Option #5. Cafe Happy

Address: 1408 NE 40th St Seattle, WA 98105 Phone: (425) 822-9696

Seating Capacity: Ample seating options
Noise Level: Serene ambiance
Food and Beverage Options: Extensive drink menu, vegetarian options
Gaming Options: Specializes in board games

Cafe Happy is a coffee shop that specializes in board games and is situated in Seattle, Washington. They provide both delivery and takeout services. The cafe boasts a contemporary and simplistic design with suspended greenery and an assortment of seating options, making it an ideal location for studying or playing games with companions. Their drink menu is extensive, featuring trendy beverages such as bubble tea, milk tea, smoothies, and fruit tea. In addition, they offer vegetarian food alternatives. While some patrons have experienced lengthy wait times and undercooked bubble tea, others have commended the amiable personnel and delectable beverages. Overall, Cafe Happy is a superb choice for individuals seeking a serene and hygienic study area or a location to socialize with friends while playing board games and sipping on refreshing drinks.

Pros:

• Extensive drink menu with trendy beverages such as bubble tea, milk tea, smoothies, and fruit tea.
• Contemporary and simplistic design with suspended greenery and an assortment of seating options.
• Ideal location for studying or playing games with companions.
• Offers vegetarian food alternatives.

Cons:

• Some patrons have experienced lengthy wait times.
• Some patrons have received undercooked bubble tea.
• Limited food menu.

Option #6. The Raygun Lounge

Address: 501 E Pine St Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: (206) 812-2521

Seating Capacity: Limited seating
Noise Level: Moderate noise
Food and Beverage Options: Affordable, satisfactory selection
Gaming Options: Diverse, free to borrow

Seattle’s Raygun Lounge is a cafe that specializes in board games and boasts a pleasant ambiance. The establishment offers a diverse selection of games, including arcade games, pinball machines, and board games that patrons can borrow for free upon purchasing a drink. The beer selection is satisfactory and reasonably priced, while the food is affordable but not exceptional. Although the restrooms could use some improvement, the staff is amiable and accommodating. All in all, The Raygun Lounge is an enjoyable place to spend time with friends and indulge in some nostalgic gaming. It’s an ideal venue for a relaxed evening or a casual date, but not the most suitable choice for a large group or a fancy night out.

Pros:

• Diverse selection of games, including arcade games, pinball machines, and board games
• Games are available for free upon purchasing a drink
• Reasonably priced beer selection
• Pleasant ambiance and accommodating staff

Cons:

• Restrooms could use some improvement
• Food is affordable but not exceptional
• Not the most suitable choice for a large group or a fancy night out

Option #7. Meeples Games

Address: 3727 California Ave SW Ste 2B Seattle, WA 98116 Phone: (206) 535-7896

Seating Capacity: Limited seating available
Noise Level: Moderate noise level
Food and Beverage Options: Good variety, includes vegan options
Gaming Options: Diverse selection, lending library

Located in Seattle, WA, Meeples Games is a cafe that specializes in board games. The establishment offers a diverse selection of board games, puzzles, and RPGs for patrons to enjoy. Additionally, they provide a lending library where customers can borrow any game they sell and play it in the store. The cafe also serves food, beverages, and even beer on tap. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the industry, which makes them extremely helpful and capable of providing excellent recommendations. Although the location may be somewhat challenging to locate, it is undoubtedly worth the effort. Meeples Games is an ideal destination for a date night or hanging out with friends, and it is an excellent spot to spend a leisurely Sunday afternoon. Overall, Meeples Games is a must-visit for any board game enthusiast who desires a fun and distinctive experience.

Pros:

• Diverse selection of board games, puzzles, and RPGs
• Lending library allows customers to borrow games and play in-store
• Serves food, beverages, and beer on tap
• Knowledgeable and passionate staff provides excellent recommendations

Cons:

• Location may be somewhat challenging to locate

Option #8. The Missing Piece

Address: 9456 35th Ave SW Seattle, WA 98126 Phone: (206) 420-8960

Seating Capacity: Private rooms available
Noise Level: Mixed reviews
Food and Beverage Options: Delectable, vegan options
Gaming Options: Impressive game library, consignment program

Seattle, WA’s The Missing Piece is a cafe that specializes in board games. They have an impressive array of games available for purchase or play, and also offer private rooms that can be rented hourly. In addition to their gaming selection, the cafe serves a variety of delectable sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. The owners are enthusiastic about games and have implemented a consignment program for used games. The Game Library is a standout feature, allowing visitors to try out games before committing to a purchase. While a few patrons have reported subpar coffee and impolite staff, the majority of reviews praise the cafe’s ambiance and game selection. This establishment is ideal for board game aficionados seeking a fun and welcoming spot to enjoy with friends.

Pros:

• Impressive array of games available for purchase or play
• Private rooms available for rent hourly
• Game Library allows visitors to try out games before committing to a purchase
• Consignment program for used games

Cons:

• Some patrons have reported subpar coffee
• A few patrons have reported impolite staff

Option #9. Uptown Espresso – Belltown

Address: 2504 4th Ave Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 441-1084

Seating Capacity: Generous indoor seating area
Noise Level: Can become congested
Food and Beverage Options: Velvety and delectable coffee
Gaming Options: Extensive selection of board games

Uptown Espresso – Belltown is a delightful cafe that specializes in board games and is situated in the heart of Seattle. It boasts a generous indoor seating area and an extensive selection of board games, making it an ideal location for a leisurely and relaxing afternoon. The coffee is velvety and delectable, with a plethora of options to choose from. The personnel are amiable and obliging, always willing to make modifications to ensure a pleasurable experience. However, the cafe can become quite congested and understaffed, resulting in longer wait times. All in all, Uptown Espresso – Belltown is an excellent destination for coffee and board games, but may not be the optimal choice for those in a rush. It’s perfect for a casual get-together with friends or a cozy spot to work or study.

Pros:

• Extensive selection of board games
• Amiable and obliging personnel
• Generous indoor seating area
• Velvety and delectable coffee

Cons:

• Can become congested
• Can be understaffed
• Longer wait times
• Not optimal for those in a rush

Conclusion

Board game cafes in Washington offer a unique and engaging experience for customers looking to unplug and connect with others in person. From Zulu’s Board Game Cafe to Meeples Games, these locations offer a variety of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and catering options. With a focus on board games, card games, and role-playing games, customers can enjoy a fun and interactive experience while also indulging in delicious food and drinks. It’s important to note that many of these locations require masks and have implemented safety measures in response to COVID-19. For those looking to try out a new hobby or simply spend quality time with friends and family, board game cafes in Washington provide the perfect setting. So why not grab a game and a bite to eat at one of these unique locations? Thank you for taking the time to learn about this exciting business category!