The Best Video Game Bars in Toronto: Where To Play Today

Sometimes we just sit around twiddling our thumbs, thinking about what to do for an evening. We could stay at home and immerse ourselves in our favorite video games. Or maybe, we could head down to the bar and enjoy a couple of drinks with our friends. As the famous saying goes, why not both? Arcade bars in Toronto are something different to do, and they’re bringing the best of the two worlds together.

What is an Arcade Bar?

An arcade bar is what it sounds like – it’s a bar with arcade games. However, not all are the same! Some offer classic arcade machines and retro gaming, and others modern console experiences. They are showcased in a venue where patrons can enjoy gaming experiences paired with refreshing beverages and delicious food For a video game enthusiast, it’s a match made in heaven. Putting our hobbies in a social setting within an exciting venue. Various themes, offerings, and unique refreshments are being adopted throughout Toronto to give their ‘barcade’ their own fair – much to the delight of locals and visitors.

‘Barcades’ are becoming all the Rage in Toronto

Arcade bars in Toronto are springing up left, right and center. The concept creates almost the perfect environment to socialize, entertain, and enjoy yourself. The thrill of gaming paired with the shared social experiences are creating a buzz through the city, and more and more people are taking notice. We’d argue these venues are becoming all the rage in Toronto!

Discover 5 of The Best Toronto Arcade Bars

1. Levelup Reality

If you want to discuss the ultimate arcade bar in Toronto – Levelup Reality serves as a fantastic reference point. Operating in the same area as several popular bars in the downtown core, they can offer a VR arcade bar experience. You can play VR games and then grab a few drinks afterwards! Each play session includes:

• 80+ games with unlimited game changes
• Player setup and training
• Single and multiplayer games available (you can play in the same virtual worlds!)

From their arcade setup to their large selection of games, they provide a virtual reality experience that’s hard to match.

2. TILT ARCADE BAR

Tilt Arcade Bar could be the classic definition of an arcade bar in Toronto. Here you’ll find the traditional bar setting littered with classic games, pinball machines, arcade machines – all wrapped in an atmosphere of nostalgia. A modest entry fee will entitle you to unlimited playtime on everything offered, where you can complement your gaming with a beverage of your choice.

3. Power Up Game Bar

Power Up Game Bar may be closer to what you’d imagine if you tried to picture a Toronto arcade bar. It’s got that futuristic, digital world vibe that aligns with the stereotypes of video games. This is the environment to enjoy games ranging from classic to modern console games, all with a select few beverages and a bit of food to fuel your experiences.

4. Pixels And Pints

Image Source: Pixels & Pints Website

Pixels and Pints is an undoubtedly brilliant name for an arcade game bar in Toronto. It’s not just the clever name as to why it makes our list of favorite ‘barcades’, though. It’s an intimate environment for enjoying classic console games with your friends and supplementing your playtime with a couple of cold pints. There’s a great local feel about the place, which really helps rekindle the gaming nostalgia!

5. ZED*80

The Zed*80 is a pretty hopping arcade bar in Toronto. In contrast to the relaxed and chilled venue, they offer a full-throttle experience of the senses. It’s a party with multitudes of games and arcade machines to play, great food and drink, and a DJ playing music to bring the hype. If you’re looking to get into party mode with your ‘barcade’ visit, this would definitely be the place for you!

Get Your Game On At One Of These Awesome Arcade Game Bars In Toronto!

If you told your friends, “why don’t we go to a bar where we can play Super Smash Bros. with pints and food” what do you think the reaction would be? We’d reckon a resounding “YES!”. Do something different with your night in Toronto, and visit one of these fantastic ‘barcades’!