Beer and Board Games– Need I Say More?

Activity: Emerald Tavern Games & Cafe
In 10 Words or Less: Coffee shop and bar with free gaming area.
Where: 9012 Research Blvd #6
Cost: Games are free to play, beer is about $6, coffee is about $3
Rating:

Last week, I reviewed Great Hall Games and concluded that it’s a great place for hardcore board game lovers. But their playing area is a little intimidating (it’s pretty much all dudes and it’s decorated like a dungeon).

If you’re a less intense board game enthusiast looking for a relaxed, social environment, Emerald Tavern Games & Cafe is the place to go instead.

Emerald Tavern sells a variety of games and other things nerds like: Star Wars models, Warhammer figurines, Pocky, etc. It doesn’t have the extensive selection of Great Hall Games, but it’s not bad.

At the back of the cafe is a giant wall o’ board games. These games are totally free to play and you’re welcome to bring your own game. If you don’t have anyone to play with, raise a yellow flag and someone might join you.

Don’t know what to play? The staff is super helpful and can recommend something based on what you like– competitive, co-op, strategy, luck, whatever. We ended up playing a game called Castle Panic based on their suggestion, and it was awesome.

Many board games can take hours to play. Luckily, Emerald Tavern offers beer, coffee, smoothies, and sandwiches to keep you going. I had a latte and my fiance had a beer (they offer several English ales, so he was in heaven).

Although Emerald Tavern is fairly new, it was fairly crowded when we got there and totally packed when we left. You can’t make table reservations in advance, so I’d recommend going early if it’s a Friday or Saturday evening.

We had a great time at Emerald Tavern. (And not just because we successfully defended our castle from the trolls, goblins, and orcs.) It’s a chill place to hang out with friends, drink beer, and play games. We’ll definitely be going back regularly.

Emerald Tavern Website

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