New York City: the city that never sleeps, and a city that certainly knows how to have fun. Beyond the iconic landmarks and bustling streets lies a vibrant nightlife scene, and within that scene, a thriving subculture of bars that blend the perfect mix of drinks and games. Whether you're looking for a casual night out with friends, a competitive showdown, or a unique date night experience, NYC has a game bar for you. This guide explores 19 of the best, offering a diverse range of options to suit every taste.
Dive into the Best Game Bars in NYC
This list caters to various preferences, from classic arcade games to modern board games and everything in between. We've carefully selected bars offering a compelling combination of atmosphere, drinks, and game selection. Let's get started!
Classic Arcades & Retro Fun
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Barcade: A pioneer in the NYC game bar scene, Barcade boasts multiple locations throughout the city, each brimming with classic arcade games. Expect pinball machines, retro consoles, and a solid selection of craft beers. The atmosphere is energetic and nostalgic, perfect for groups of friends.
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Game Over: Situated in the East Village, Game Over offers a more intimate setting with a curated selection of retro arcade games. The focus is on quality over quantity, providing a more focused and relaxed gaming experience.
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8-Bit: Located in Williamsburg, 8-Bit channels a similar vibe to Barcade, but with its unique style and carefully selected games. The bar offers a solid selection of craft beers on tap and frequently hosts tournaments and special events.
Board Games & Tabletop Thrills
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The Board Room: As the name suggests, The Board Room is a haven for board game enthusiasts. With a vast library of games catering to all skill levels and preferences, it’s an excellent place to discover new favorites or enjoy old classics. The friendly staff are always happy to recommend games.
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The Uncommons: A cozy and welcoming space in Brooklyn, The Uncommons offers a rotating selection of board games and card games. They also often host game nights and workshops, making it a great spot for meeting fellow board game aficionados.
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The Bell House: While not exclusively a game bar, The Bell House in Gowanus frequently features board game nights and events, integrating games seamlessly into their already vibrant atmosphere. It’s worth checking their calendar for specific game-related events.
Bowling Alleys & Beyond
- The Gutter: This popular bowling alley in Williamsburg combines the classic sport with a stylish bar and a lively atmosphere. It's a perfect blend of activity and social interaction, ideal for larger groups or celebrations.
Unique & Thematic Experiences
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Elsewhere: This sprawling complex in Bushwick features several bars, an outdoor area, and even a performance space. While not solely focused on games, they often incorporate interactive elements and gaming-themed events into their programming.
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The Slipper Room: This Lower East Side burlesque club sometimes incorporates games into their show and sometimes has game related themed nights. This is a good option if you want something more adult themed.
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The Playroom: This isn’t just a game bar but an experience. They often host themed nights, concerts and other entertainment. It's a good option for a more unique themed experience.
Sports Bars with a Twist
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Donovan's: This is a classic NYC sports bar with a huge amount of TVs and great bar food. They do have some arcade games to play and often have game related themes for certain events and games.
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Blind Tiger Ale House: This popular sports bar offers a great selection of beers and has some classic arcade games for patrons to enjoy alongside the games on TV.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
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Happy Ending: This quirky bar in the East Village is known for its unique cocktails and laid-back atmosphere. While it doesn't have a huge selection of games, it often incorporates game-related events and themes.
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Maria's Crisis: Located in Chelsea, this karaoke bar offers a fun, if somewhat unconventional, game-like experience. Although not a traditional game bar, the competitive element of karaoke can certainly fill that niche for some.
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Black Bear Bar: This neighborhood bar located in the East Village often has themed nights, and occasionally incorporates games into their programming.
Modern & Upscale Options
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The Campbell: This upscale bar in Grand Central Terminal offers a sophisticated atmosphere, along with a well-curated selection of games.
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230 Fifth Rooftop Bar: Known for its stunning rooftop views, 230 Fifth also features a selection of games, providing a unique combination of elegance and entertainment.
Out-of-the-Box Choices
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Escape Rooms: While technically not bars, several escape rooms across the city offer a thrilling and interactive game experience that can be followed by drinks at a nearby establishment.
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Dave & Buster's (Times Square): A national chain, this location offers a wide variety of arcade games and a full bar, catering to a wide range of preferences.
Choosing Your Perfect Game Bar Adventure
When selecting your ideal game bar, consider the following:
- Type of Games: Do you prefer classic arcade games, board games, bowling, or something else entirely?
- Atmosphere: Are you looking for a lively and energetic environment, or something more intimate and relaxed?
- Location: Consider the bar's proximity to your location and transportation options.
- Drinks & Food: Check the bar's menu to ensure it offers drinks and food that appeal to your taste.
This list provides a starting point for your game bar exploration in New York City. Remember to check individual bar websites for hours, menus, and special events to ensure the perfect fit for your night out. So grab your friends, choose your game, and prepare for a night of fun in the city that never sleeps!
