Drinking and playing video games are great pairing. Someone saw the trend and came up with the brilliant idea of opening an arcade bar. The business venture was so successful that many Arcade Bars were opened all over the globe. You’ll find one anywhere, from North America to Europe and Asia.
Since then, the idea has expanded to include arcade games and many other activities. These are the hottest arcade bars where you can drink beer and (virtually!) brawl.
Barcade – Brooklyn, New York
Although we don’t know the origins of the idea, it seems that the founders are the ones who came up with the phrase “barcade”. The original location was in Brooklyn. However, the brand has expanded to other locations in New Jersey and Connecticut. Although the original venue was known for its vintage arcade games and beer, they now offer pub food and cocktails.
The vintage arcade games are still available. You can play any arcade game from 1975 through the mid-2000s.
Game Over Lounge – Bangkok, Thailand
The bar features three gaming consoles, the Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Wii U and Wii U. There are also multiple computer stations, a pool table and beer pong. A food truck owner founded Game Over Lounge. The bar’s specialty food is burgers. If you are looking for something sweet, there are cakes and milkshakes.
You have the option to play intense games such as Metal Gear Solid or FIFA, or you can choose to play Monopoly and Chess. While playing, sip craft ales, wine and spirits, or coffee or tea.
Loading – London, United Kingdom
The Arcade Bar has become so popular that there are two additional locations in London. Every location offers a PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Mini, and more than 60 board games. You don’t have to wait for your turn to get the game you want.
All games are free to try; all you have to do is buy your drinks. Loading is a well-known bar in London, offering a variety of cocktails (some with clever game-related names) and a relaxed atmosphere.
Continue? Gaming Bar and Bistro in Taipei, Taiwan
Continue? Gaming Bar and Bistro offers plenty of comfortable couches to enjoy whatever game you are into. Are you looking for more old-school, vintage games? Try Mortal Kombat. Into first-person shooter games? Call of Duty is available at the bar. Do you want a lighter game to play with friends? Mario Party! Just Dance is the best to both watch and play. This place is a virtual gaming haven, offering a variety of drinks such as the Pikachu Thunderbolt or meals such as the Charizard Fried Chicken.
Seattle Pinball Museum, Seattle, Washington
This bar doubles as a museum in a way. The Seattle Pinball Museum features 54 machines that rotate for various and display games from the 1930s. Storefronts Seattle is a partnership between the founders of this bar and Storefronts Seattle. They aim to connect empty storefronts with artists.
A jury selected the Seattle Pinball Museum to be funded and tested their idea. The jury was right to make this decision. What started as a collection of pinball machines has blossomed into a business.
Meltdown – Paris, France
The Meltdown Bar, also known as “Le Melt”, is a Paris-based streaming game and E-Sports bar. However, it’s not just E-Sports. There are also video games such as Street Fighter and Mario Party. There are also themed nights that feature a specific activity or game, such as karaoke and quiz nights.
You can also choose from a wide range of beverages. There are also 28 locations worldwide if you don’t live in Paris. Make sure to find out which Meltdown Bar is closest to you!
TILT – Toronto Canada
TILT offers a variety of games. There are classic arcade and pinball machines and games like Skee-Ball or foosball. As if having more than 50 arcade games was not enough, they also have modern consoles such as Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis and Sega Master System.
The pub has a good beer selection and the best pub food (i.e., This is the ideal place to relax with your friends.
Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade, Portland, Oregon
This Arcade Bar was established in 1999. It was a pioneer in the hybrid bar-arcade trend. Ground Kontrol has over 100 video games and 40 pinball machines. They also have a full-service bar and events hosting DJs, comedy acts, high-score competitions and Rock Band Karaoke.
This place serves delicious food, drinks, cocktails, and beers. Check out their events for information on upcoming themed nights dedicated to your favorite games.
Player 1 – Orlando, Florida
Player 1 Orlando does not offer cocktails, but it does mean that their selection of craft beers and sakes, meads and wines is much larger. They have the latest consoles, such as Xbox One, Wii U and PlayStation 4, and older consoles like the Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii.
There are many arcade cabinets available. You can order your favorite beer, rent your favorite game and have it all set for the night.
Emporium – Chicago, Illinois
Emporium is more than just an Arcade Bar. It can also be used as a music venue with three locations around Chicago. The atmosphere is super fun, with a live band or DJ playing. There are many arcade games to choose from as well as air hockey and foosball. The drinks are always flowing.
