When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe
Why Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe in Austin is a distinctive destination that combines the excitement of board and hobby gaming with gourmet food and beverages, creating an ideal place for friends to meet, connect, and have fun. Established in 2013 as Austin's original game cafe, it boasts a uniquely charming English Tudor-themed ambiance where guests can enjoy a comfortable and inviting environment. The cafe offers an extensive collection of hobby and board games, allowing visitors to browse and play the latest titles or classics in the gaming community. Highlights include their scratch kitchen inspired by British pub fare, a well-stocked cocktail bar, and 32 draft beers to suit various tastes. The cafe also prides itself on serving gourmet coffee, specialty teas, and an array of alcoholic beverages, making it an excellent venue for both daytime and evening meetups. Frequent game night events and tournaments offer lively opportunities to engage with others, making Emerald Tavern not just a cafe but a vibrant hub for local and visiting gamers alike. Whether for casual gaming sessions, celebratory gatherings, or learning new games, Emerald Tavern provides an inviting atmosphere that fosters community and memorable experiences.
Here's what people think of Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe
As of recent, Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1715 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, and rich selection of games. Positive reviews highlight the delightful British pub-inspired menu, the quality of the sandwiches and snacks, and the extensive craft beer and coffee selection available on tap. Regular attendees appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff who often provide game recommendations and assistance, enhancing the overall experience. Many guests emphasize the venue’s suitability for both casual visits and private events such as parties, noting well-organized setups and accommodating service. However, some reviewers mention that while the game library is solid, it could benefit from increased variety and quantity to broaden options for enthusiasts. A few comments indicate a desire for slightly expanded space or additional private areas for group events, citing occasional crowding during busy times. Despite minor critiques, the overall consensus remains highly favorable, reflected in a 4.7 rating from over 1,700 reviews. Emerald Tavern stands out as a beloved community spot where gaming, food, and socializing blend seamlessly, making it a top recommendation for anyone looking to enjoy quality game time alongside great food and drink in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Barbados Pearl
You walk in and immediately feel at home as a neurospicy human. The staff are like your new best friends. You can bring your own games or pay a little bit to rent one of their board games they have. Also, the food is far better than it has any right to be for just a cute little board game Cafe. And I don't know who comes up with their drinks, but they're an alchemist.
Jack Cohea (Dack Janiels)
This is THE premier board gaming space to check out. I brought my nephew and brother up from San Antonio for a day of board gaming and from SA to Austin, there is no contest. No gaming store comes close to the level in their medieval theme and atmosphere. The retail area is spacious and not crammed next to the gaming area like some other stores. There is plenty of seating space in the main area and they also have a completely separate area that gives space for larger war gaming. The war gaming tables are set up and ready to go, no need to wait for special table modifications. While they do charge to rent games, the gaming library is well stocked and the level of diversity in the selection makes the charge well worth it. The restrooms are clean they have multiple stalls and urinals; which is nice compared to other stores in SA that only have a single toilet/urinal for its customers. This space is also kid friendly. Which might be a weird thing to mention but there are some "comparable" stores in SA that aren't kid friendly. Imagine? Running a game store and not being kid friendly? The food pricing might be a little on the steep side, however, you're paying to be able to eat a decent meal while being able to enjoy a clean, not to mention, well-lit gaming space. The menu has enough variety and selection so there's a bit for everyone. Additionally, having a bar that serves alcohol, sodas and even sachet tea is something that is greatly appreciated. Some advice for those looking to make their way, I recommend reserving a table because this store definitely can get busy with customers but that's not a deterrent by any means; they stay packed for a reason. This store is echelons above those "comparable" in SA. And even though I'm cities away, I will definitely be coming back and recommending Emerald Tavern to friends.
Yen Dobson
This place is awesome! Went here for a friend’s birthday and we had a reserved booth for board games. There were many food and coffee options and everything was great. You can also shop around for board games as they have a really expansive collection. It seems there were also arts and crafts workshops going on, so a great place to gather with friends. Would recommend!
Joel Buford
We didn’t get food but this place was awesome. We googled “board game bar” and found this GEM of a place. Harry was super sweet and really wanted me to buy the Owl Bear, but I didn’t fold. I wanted four specific things and they didn’t have any of them so that was the one -1 star bummer. 1. Local made games 2. Store stickers 3. Guild of Merchant Explorers expansion (they had the base game) 4. General pieces to build your own board game The Minstrel’s Mead is the absolute best.
LorDefiance
Thank you for having me and my critter friends over! I ordered a summer seasonal root tea, and spinach artichoke dip that was more than enough for the table. Marcie served our party, and we had a wonderful time!
How to reach Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe
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Why Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe with your friends? Because it offers the perfect blend of social connection, entertainment, and hospitality all under one English Tudor-themed roof. This Austin staple is not just a spot to grab a drink or a bite; it’s a vibrant community hub where friends, family, and gaming enthusiasts converge to share laughter, strategy, and memorable moments. Imagine spending hours immersed in a vast library of board and hobby games, sipping on craft beers from a diverse 32-draft tap selection, or enjoying specialty coffee brewed to perfection. The atmosphere invites you to relax and engage in playful competition or cooperative fun in a warm, inviting setting designed to feel like a medieval tavern yet infused with modern comfort. Food here complements the experience with a full scratch kitchen serving British pub-inspired fare, making it easy to refuel without missing a beat of the fun. With over 1700 reviews and a stellar 4.7 rating, Emerald Tavern uniquely balances the joys of gaming with great food and drinks, making it the ideal rallying point to reconnect and celebrate friendships that thrive on shared experiences.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe? This venue caters to all sorts of game lovers, from casual players to serious hobbyists, ensuring an engaging experience for every group size and preference. Their extensive game library is available free to patrons who purchase food or beverages, featuring hundreds of board games, card games, and role-playing game materials. Whether you want to test your strategy in complex Eurogames, enjoy fast-paced party games, or dive into immersive storytelling RPGs, the selection is thoughtfully curated to suit all skill levels and tastes. Alongside gaming, Emerald Tavern hosts regular game night events—created to foster community connection through friendly competition and social interaction. These events are open to all skill levels, making it easy to join or even meet new friends. The staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often ready to recommend games tailored to your group’s size and interest, ensuring everyone can find their perfect match for an unforgettable time.
What makes Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe perfect for group meetups? The layout and policies are intentionally designed for social gatherings, making it effortless to enjoy time together. The cafe offers tables sized for different group sizes, including larger, long tables meant specifically for six or more people, so your crew can comfortably sit together without feeling cramped. The ambiance—themed like a cozy English Tudor tavern—creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages relaxed conversation and laughter. Food and drink menus are extensive and crafted to delight groups with diverse tastes: from gourmet coffee and tea to an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, paired with British-style pub dishes like gourmet sandwiches, hearty pies, and shareable appetizers. Importantly, tables and the gaming library are free to use with any food or drink purchase, meaning you can focus on fun without worrying about extra fees. The staff’s friendly and attentive service ensures that logistics—from reserving space to helping with game setup—run smoothly, so your meetup feels effortless and enjoyable.
How does Emerald Tavern support a welcoming and inclusive environment? Beyond being a game haven, Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe fosters a culture of respect and camaraderie, critical for making every visit special. Their clear policies promote shared enjoyment: tables are on a first-come, first-served basis (with reservations available for groups), outside food and drinks are prohibited to support the cafe’s offerings, and guests are encouraged to “fly the flag” to indicate if they are open to others joining their game or prefer to keep it private. This system helps manage the balance between social interaction and private group time, so everyone feels comfortable. The knowledgeable staff also assist groups in finding suitable games and spaces, and events are hosted to encourage inclusive participation. By combining excellent customer care with a respectful gaming culture, Emerald Tavern ensures every guest feels welcomed, whether you’re a board game novice or an experienced hobby gamer.
What kind of food and drinks can you expect at Emerald Tavern? The cafe boasts a scratch kitchen focusing on British pub-inspired fare that complements the gaming experience with hearty, flavorful options. Expect dishes like gourmet sandwiches, savory pies, and shareable appetizers designed to please a variety of palates and dietary preferences. The kitchen supports a relaxed but quality dining experience tailored to sustain long gaming sessions. Complementing the food is an impressive drink menu featuring 32 draft beers, a variety of wines, artisanal coffee, and specialty teas. The cocktail bar adds another layer of enjoyment with creative mixed drinks crafted to match the tavern theme. This comprehensive beverage selection ensures guests have plenty of options whether they desire a caffeine boost during daylight hours or a craft beer to unwind in the evening. The seamless integration of food and drinks with gaming provides a full sensory delight for groups gathering at Emerald Tavern.
When is Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe open and how accessible is it for hosting your event? Operating with generous hours throughout the week, Emerald Tavern makes it convenient to pick a time that suits your group’s schedule. They open early on weekends at 10 AM and close late at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, with slightly shorter hours on weekdays that still accommodate lunch, dinner, and evening meetups comfortably. The cafe’s location in Austin is accessible and designed to accommodate groups coming for special celebrations, casual hangouts, or organized game nights. Their online system facilitates easy registration for events, and staff can assist with reservations and special needs like combining tables for larger parties. Emerald Tavern’s thoughtful operation ensures hassle-free planning, letting you focus on enjoying your time with friends or family.
In essence, Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe is more than just a game spot; it is a community destination built for connection, laughter, and shared joy. Whether you’re gathering with old friends, meeting new ones, or planning a family outing, this English Tudor-inspired haven offers a seamless blend of games, food, drinks, and atmosphere. Its welcoming policies, extensive game library, and quality dining experience make it a standout choice for hosting engaging meetups that turn simple gatherings into cherished memories. If you want to rally your friends in a space that celebrates fun, fellowship, and flavor in equal measure, Emerald Tavern awaits your arrival.