When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Hex & Company
Why Hex & Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hex & Company is New York City's largest and most vibrant board game café, perfect for meeting up with friends and immersing yourself in tabletop gaming culture. With multiple locations across Manhattan — including the West Side, Upper East Side, and Union Square — Hex&Co offers an inviting and inclusive environment suitable for game hobbyists, college students, professionals, families, and newcomers alike. Each venue boasts an extensive library of tabletop games ranging from trading card games to role-playing games, ensuring there is something for every taste and experience level. Beyond gaming, Hex&Co features a full café menu offering delicious food, craft beer, and expertly brewed coffee, making it an excellent spot for everything from casual meetups and date nights to long marathon sessions or study breaks. The venues are known for their excellent customer service, knowledgeable staff, and community-driven atmosphere, creating a welcoming "home away from home" where patrons can socialize, compete in tournaments, or simply unwind. Hex&Co places a strong emphasis on fostering a safe, inclusive space where everyone can connect over shared passions and enjoy great company.
Here's what people think of Hex & Company
As of recent, Hex & Company holds a 4.5-star rating based on 391 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Hex & Company for its welcoming atmosphere and vast selection of board and tabletop games, making it a standout destination in the NYC gaming community. Positive feedback frequently highlights the friendly and enthusiastic staff who provide excellent customer support and game recommendations, as well as the combination of quality food and drinks that complement the gaming experience. Many reviewers appreciate the spacious and well-organized venues, which comfortably accommodate groups of friends and events, along with the inclusive and community-focused vibe. The multiple locations are noted for accessibility and convenience, allowing patrons to find a local spot wherever they are in the city. On the downside, some users have pointed out occasional crowding during peak hours, which sometimes leads to limited seating or waits for popular games. A few have mentioned that while the menu is generally solid, they would welcome more variety or vegan options. Despite these minor criticisms, the overwhelming consensus is that Hex&Co provides excellent value and a unique social experience that bridges gaming with quality café offerings. Overall, the reviews reflect a beloved community hub that successfully blends entertainment, engagement, and comfort, making Hex & Company a must-visit for anyone looking to connect through games in NYC.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Adrian Gonzalez Cortez
Coming here to play, isn’t that bad. It’s just terrible / unreasonable service. Starting off, the price is reasonable and the food/drinks aren’t that bad and don’t cost much either. My issue was I came in with a party of 4 around 3/4ish. They sat us at some small, cramped tables. That’s fine we understood. As time went on, the bigger tables which seemed to be for 6 people were empty. We politely asked the cashier if it was fine to switch there as it was empty, less crowded and we’d move if the space was needed later she said it was okay.. until she asked the female manager and she said no because we’re already at the 4 people table and that’s it. The big tables remained empty until closing. So regarding that manager or whatever she was, terrible. She could’ve been reasonable like the cashier. Sometimes the wrong people are promoted. If you come here to play, it’s not bad. Cramped space but with the right company, you’ll forget about that until you get bumped here and there. Terrible manager, great cashier.
Camryn
Honestly this place is great. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re ever looking for a place to hang out and have a nice time with anyone, whether friends or a date. You can play games, just sit there and forget to play games because you’re talking, and have any of the genuinely good food and drink options. Sometimes it can be crowded so it can be helpful to have a reservation, but it’s not always an issue to walk right in. Also, while they probably enforce the time limit rule on keeping your table if they really need to, I’ve never had it enforced, so we’ve been able to sit for hours and enjoy. This place is really great way to have a laid back, fun time!
Eric Gilley
I walked in on a Friday evening and was greeted by the staff. I was super nervous to ask questions about their games, the tables, and their menu. The pleasant person taking my order was eager to help. Pointed out some versions of the game I’m learning. Love this place! I will be back
Jason Mei
This is an amazing spot to hang out with friends or a date — especially if you love board games. It can get pretty packed, so make sure to have a reservation if you're coming with a big group. Overall, it's a fun and chill place to spend time. It has drinks as well!
Anthony Diaz
Simon hooked us up with a phenomenal D&D campaign for a larger group. We had an incredible time and can't recommend it highly enough!
How to reach Hex & Company
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Why Hex & Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hex & Company with your friends? Hex & Company offers an exceptional environment designed for connection, fun, and shared experiences that go far beyond typical hangouts. This board game café brings together the perfect blend of entertainment, a comfortable atmosphere, and excellent dining options that make it ideal for gathering with your loved ones. Whether you want to enjoy some friendly competition, discover new games, or simply relax with drinks and food in hand, Hex & Company delivers all that under one roof. The spacious and welcoming setting encourages easy socializing and allows for both intimate and larger group meetups without feeling cramped. The vast selection of over 1,000 board games ensures variety so that every group—regardless of size or interest—can find games that everyone enjoys. The café’s combination of an inviting ambiance, attentive staff, and well-curated game library makes it the kind of place where memories are made while sharing laughter and good times with friends or family. Rallying at Hex & Company turns a simple meetup into a dynamic, interactive experience that brings people closer together in a relaxed and stimulating environment.
What activities can you enjoy at Hex & Company? Hex & Company specializes in providing a broad range of board games, card games, and social games available for play on-site, making it an ideal playground for game enthusiasts of all levels. Guests can dive into classics, discover trending new releases, or try unique indie games from their extensive collection, ensuring endless entertainment options. The café encourages social interaction through strategic games that foster teamwork, as well as competitive games that spark friendly rivalry. Beyond gaming, Hex & Company serves a well-rounded menu featuring locally roasted coffee, cocktails, craft beer, milkshakes, mini donuts, and a variety of American bar-style food. This combination lets visitors enjoy a complete sensory experience—tasting delicious food and drinks while engaging their minds in playful competition. The absence of time limits on gameplay means groups can stay and play as long as they want without feeling rushed, encouraging deeper connections and a truly leisurely outing. Additionally, Hex & Company hosts special events and themed nights, perfect for those looking to meet new people or celebrate occasions in a memorable way.
Why is Hex & Company perfect for group meetups? The space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate different group sizes with ample seating and a spacious interior that avoids the clutter and crowding common in many entertainment venues. Tables are arranged to support both small gatherings and larger groups comfortably, making it easy to organize family outings, friend reunions, or casual business meetups. The friendly and knowledgeable staff play a key role in facilitating a positive experience, often helping new visitors choose games that match their interests and group dynamics. For families or groups with mixed interests, the diverse gaming collection offers options that are easy to learn for beginners yet still compelling for more experienced players. The flexible, casual atmosphere encourages guests to relax, talk, and share laughs while also stimulating creativity and strategic thinking through gameplay. Hex & Company's location in New York City's Upper East Side provides convenient access for city dwellers and visitors alike, further making it a go-to destination for social engagement. Altogether, these details promote an inclusive and enjoyable environment where every meetup feels special.
What types of games can you expect at Hex & Company? The café boasts an immense variety of games, surpassing the typical board game café offerings, with over a thousand titles available for play and for sale. This includes popular contemporary games, traditional favorites, strategic wargames, party games, cooperative adventures, and solo play options. Whether you are a fan of complex strategy games that can take hours or lighthearted card games perfect for casual fun, Hex & Company has something to cater to every taste. This diverse range means that groups with mixed gaming preferences can each find games that appeal to them, making it the ultimate place to introduce new games to friends or family and expand your gaming horizons. The café's rotating selection and knowledgeable staff also help visitors discover hidden gems or trending new releases, keeping the game experience fresh and exciting regardless of how often you visit.
How does the food and drink menu enhance the Hex & Company experience? Hex & Company elevates the typical board game café concept by complementing its game offerings with a well-curated menu designed to satisfy diverse tastes and keep guests energized. Their locally roasted espresso and coffee provide a great pick-me-up for daytime visits, perfect for those who want to chat over a warm drink while playing. The full bar serves an array of cocktails, craft beers, and wine, making evening meetups more festive and celebratory. For those craving comfort food, the café offers American-style dishes alongside indulgent treats like mini donuts and milkshakes, satisfying both savory and sweet cravings. This thoughtful culinary approach encourages guests to linger longer, fully immersing themselves in the social and gaming experience rather than rushing away for meals elsewhere. The combination of high-quality drinks, savory snacks, and sweet treats adds significant value to the visit, making Hex & Company a truly holistic destination for food, drink, and fun.
What makes the atmosphere at Hex & Company special for hosting meetups? The ambiance blends energetic fun with laid-back comfort, creating a welcoming environment that appeals to a wide audience. The interior’s spaciousness and warm lighting foster relaxation without sacrificing vibrancy, striking a balance ideal for both casual conversation and lively gameplay. Background music is carefully selected to maintain a cheerful mood without overwhelming conversation, enhancing social interaction. The staff's friendliness and genuine enthusiasm create a friendly and inclusive vibe, making guests feel at home and encouraging newcomers to step out of their comfort zones and join in. This positive, low-pressure environment makes it a great spot not only for friends and families but also for team-building meetups or casual work gatherings. The café’s blend of hospitality, space, and entertainment ensures everyone leaves satisfied, having had a meaningful and enjoyable time.
Why is Hex & Company a top-rated choice among New York City venues for group outings? With a strong rating of 4.5 stars based on nearly 400 reviews, Hex & Company consistently earns praise for its unique combination of games, food, and atmosphere. Visitors highlight the café's innovative concept that goes beyond eating or drinking, focusing on interaction and shared experiences. The high rating reflects satisfaction with the quality of the games, the helpfulness of staff, and the overall vibe that creates a memorable outing. Patrons appreciate the flexibility of the space which accommodates both spontaneous visits and planned group events, making it a trusty go-to location. The Upper East Side setting adds to its appeal, providing a convenient and attractive locale for locals and tourists alike. Hex & Company’s reputation as New York City’s premier board game café makes it a compelling destination for anyone seeking a fun and engaging meetup spot.
What additional benefits does Hex & Company offer for planning events or special occasions? Beyond casual meetups, Hex & Company provides a perfect venue for birthday parties, corporate team-building activities, or special celebrations. Its ample space and extensive game library allow for custom experiences tailored to the group’s interests and size. The café's staff can assist in curating game selections and managing reservations, easing the burden on hosts. The combination of food, drinks, and entertainment also means that planners don’t have to look elsewhere for additional services, creating a seamless event experience. For those looking to add a unique twist to their gatherings, Hex & Company’s specialized themed nights and gaming tournaments provide extra layers of fun and excitement. These offerings make it an intelligent choice for anyone wanting an interactive, memorable celebration in a lively yet comfortable setting.
In summary, Hex & Company stands out as an exceptional venue perfectly suited for hosting meetups with friends and family. Its massive game selection, delicious and diverse menu, warm and spacious atmosphere, and attentive service all combine to create an engaging social hub in New York City. Whether gathering for casual fun, a special occasion, or a challenging game night, Hex & Company delivers an experience that fosters connection, laughter, and lasting memories. This unique board game café provides everything needed to turn a simple outing into a vibrant event worth repeating.