Opening a board game café can be a dream come true for any board game enthusiast. It's a place where players can gather, relax, and enjoy their favourite games while sipping on a hot cup of coffee or a cold craft beer. But as exciting as it is to think about stacks of board games and busy tables, the real secret to creating a successful board game café lies in the atmosphere.
The right atmosphere will make your customers feel welcome, engaged, and excited to come back again and again. So, how do you craft that perfect vibe for your café? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Grab your game pieces, and let’s dive in!
Board game cafe design
First and foremost, the look and feel of your café should match the experience you aim to offer. A board game café is not just a place to grab a coffee; it’s a hub for creativity, fun, and social interaction. This means you must design your space to be functional and welcoming.
Are you looking for board game cafe inspiration? Find your local board game cafes in the UK for cafe design ideas.
Board game cafe layout
Make sure to have plenty of tables that cater to different group sizes. Small tables for two or three are perfect for those casual one-on-one games, while larger tables are ideal for board game nights with friends or groups. Ensure there’s enough space between tables so people don’t feel cramped. You don’t want your patrons elbowing each other while trying to assemble a Settlers of Catan board.
Board game cafe seating
Additionally, consider comfortable seating. People may spend hours in your café, so ensure the chairs are ergonomic and comfortable. Mix up the seating to create variety; a combination of comfy armchairs, sturdy chairs, and maybe even a couple of cosy couches or bean bags can help create different "zones" for various types of play.
Board game cafe lighting
And let’s not forget the lighting! No one wants to strain their eyes while reading game rules or counting their resources in a dimly lit room. Use warm, ambient lighting to create a welcoming space and ensure brighter spots at each table. Lighting that can be adjusted is ideal – you’ll need flexibility for games that require more focus and a more relaxed atmosphere for social gamers.
Curate a board game library
The heart and soul of any board game café is, of course, its board game library. Your customers are coming for the games, so you’ll need a solid selection that appeals to seasoned gamers and newcomers.
Start by balancing your collection with a mix of classic games like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Chess, as well as newer, modern board games such as Codenames, Carcassonne, or Ticket to Ride. Think about diversity in gameplay, too: strategy games, party games, cooperative games, and quick-fun games. You want to ensure that there's something for everyone, whether looking for a deep, immersive experience or just a quick laugh with friends.
Interested in discovering great games for your store? Check out our board and card game collection to add exciting titles to your offerings!
Board game storage
It's also a good idea to organise your games by type. That way, players can quickly find what they're in the mood for, whether it’s a tense two-player game or a multiplayer family favourite. Make the library visually appealing by arranging games on colourful shelves or using creative signage to categorise them. If space allows, have a featured game section where you highlight new releases or fan favourites.
Look at our board game storage ideas and get some inspiration for creative displays that could help you showcase games in new ways.
Staff recommendations
One clever touch could be to add a “Game of the Week” or a “staff recommendation” section to highlight games that might be new to your customers or underappreciated gems in your collection.
Create a warm and inviting vibe
The atmosphere is everything. Imagine entering your café for the first time: What do you want your guests to feel? Cosy? Energised? Inspired to try something new?
Game-inspired artwork and decor
Here’s where you can inject personality into your café. Use playful and warm elements in your décor. Games-inspired artwork on the walls, board game pieces scattered around the space, and quirky touches like a giant Jenga set or a display of mini figurines can help bring the gaming world to life in your café.
Board game cafe music
Music also plays a role in setting the right tone. You want to avoid anything too loud or distracting. Instead, go for background music that enhances the atmosphere without overpowering conversations. Think mellow indie music, instrumental tracks, or upbeat, non-intrusive genres. Ideally, play tracks that encourage relaxation, creativity, or even a little nostalgia for the gamers in the room.
Board game cafe furnishing
And don't forget about furnishings. Choose colours and materials that are both inviting and functional. Warm wood tones, soft fabrics, and cosy textures can create a relaxing environment that feels like an extension of someone's living room. And don’t shy away from using some fun gaming-themed pieces – they’ll add a lighthearted, approachable vibe to the space.
Offer great food and drinks
A café is about more than just games; it’s about creating an experience. So, the food and drink menu should complement the vibe you're going for. Serving delicious snacks and beverages is a great way to keep customers energised and entertained.
Board game cafe food menu
Start with easy-to-eat foods that don’t require a lot of mess. Finger foods like fries, nachos, popcorn, and small bites work well because they’re quick and easy to eat without disrupting gameplay. If your space permits, consider offering more substantial meals like sandwiches, wraps, or even pizza. Just keep everything easy to handle, with minimal risk of greasy fingers on game pieces!
Board game cafe drinks
For drinks, offer a selection of specialty coffees (espresso, cold brew, lattes) for caffeine lovers and refreshing teas, sodas, and flavoured water for non-coffee drinkers. Consider catering to the more adventurous types with fun cocktails or craft beers. A board game café isn't just a place for family-friendly fun; it’s also a space for adults to unwind.
And, of course, don't forget about themed drinks that tie in with popular games. It’s fun to get creative with your menu while keeping things engaging!
Foster a sense of community
The best board game cafés aren’t just about the games but about bringing people together. As the owner, it’s up to you to foster community within your café.
Board game events
Host events like board game nights, tournaments, or themed parties to build a following and encourage social interaction. For example, hold weekly "Game Night Challenges" or organise seasonal board game tournaments where winners can receive prizes like gift cards or free game rentals.
Cafe loyalty program
Create a loyalty program or a membership card system where regular visitors can earn points or discounts. This can keep people coming back and create a fun, community-driven culture. You can even hold monthly or quarterly gatherings for regulars to play together or participate in game-swapping events.
Board game cafe collaborations
Consider collaborating with local game stores, hobby shops, or game designers. This will support the local gaming community and create exciting opportunities for collaborations, such as exclusive game nights or early access to new releases.
Get social and spread the word
Once your café is set up and running, remember to get social.
Advertise your board game cafe on social media
Use social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to share your upcoming events, new game releases, and café specials. Creating a hashtag for your café is a fun way to keep your community connected online. Post pictures of customers enjoying games, share behind-the-scenes looks, and give sneak peeks of new game additions.
Board game release parties
Partnering with influencers or local bloggers can also be a great way to spread the word and attract new customers who are passionate about board games. Host social events like board game release parties or casual meetups to excite people about what your café offers.
If you’re considering hosting events, our demonstrations team can help you create a fun and engaging experience for your customers.
Build a friendly and knowledgeable staff
Last but certainly not least, your staff is essential to the atmosphere. Make sure your team is not only friendly and approachable but also game-savvy. Customers will appreciate staff who can recommend games, explain rules, and join the fun if needed. Training your team to be knowledgeable about the games you offer will improve the overall experience for your guests.
Encourage your staff to create connections with regulars and new visitors alike, fostering a community vibe where people feel like they’re walking into a home away from home.
Find out what it's like working with Asmodee as a supplier here.
Create your perfect board game cafe atmosphere with Asmodee
Building the ideal board game café atmosphere is about creating a space where fun, friendship, and relaxation go hand in hand.
Every little detail, from the layout and game selection to the food and drinks, adds to the vibe that keeps customers returning for more.
By designing an inviting space, offering a diverse selection of games, and fostering a sense of community, you’ll set your board game café up for success. So, create a place where everyone can enjoy a great game, good food, and even better company.
Contact our friendly team if you’re interested in hosting in-store demonstrations or filling out a new account application. We look forward to working with you!
