Need Something Different? Why Not Head to an Arcade Bar in Toronto?
Sometimes we just sit around twiddling our thumbs, thinking 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 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, others retro gaming, where some capitalize on the thrill of 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. It’s putting some of our favorite hobbies into a social setting – killing two birds with one stone in an exciting venue. Various themes, offerings, and unique refreshments are being adopted throughout Toronto to give their ‘barcade’ their own flair – 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
You may be surprised how the concept of arcade bars in Toronto has exploded. There is actually quite a number to choose from in all areas of the city these days. However, some deliver that ‘barcade’ experience just a little better than others. Here are our 5 favorite arcade game bars in Toronto.
1. Levelup Reality
If you want to discuss the ultimate arcade bar in Toronto – Levelup Reality serves as a fantastic reference point. Not only can you enjoy a couple drinks and play a few games, but you could also do that on another planet. The venue has a library of 80+ virtual reality experiences and all the catering to match, making it the perfect ‘barcade’ experience to share with small groups or a large party!
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 is more what you’d think 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 definitely the right 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
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 great to enjoy classic console games with your friends and naturally supplement 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
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 definitely 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 an almost exclusively positive answer. Do something different with your night in Toronto, and visit one of these fantastic ‘barcades’ listed above. We know there will be no regret!
