New Orleans Arcade Bar & Best Arcade Bar San Francisco Guide
Emporium SF
Emporium SF is a massive arcade bar that took over a former theater on Divisadero Street. It’s a huge spot, covering about 12,000 square feet, and it’s packed with over 50 different games. You’ll find everything from classic arcade cabinets and pinball machines to various tabletop games.
This place is a real hub for people looking to play games, grab a beer, and just hang out. It’s especially popular on weekends. They have a solid selection of beers on tap, making it a good place to try something new.
If you’re looking for a place to gather a group, Emporium SF offers large tables that you can rent. This makes it a convenient spot for meeting up with friends or even for a casual date, especially if you’re catching a show at The Independent next door.
The sheer size of Emporium SF, with its open floor plan and balconies, gives it more of a gaming arena feel than your typical arcade bar. It’s easy to get lost in the fun, moving from one game to another.
Coin-Op Game Room
Coin-Op Game Room made its way to San Francisco from San Diego, setting up shop in a huge 10,000-square-foot spot in SoMa back in 2016. They brought a ton of classic games with them, and the best part? They’re pretty cheap to play. It’s a solid place to grab some grub too, with snacks like tater tots, fried chicken, and doughnuts on the menu, all washed down with some creative cocktails. If you’re looking for a more low-key vibe, check out the upstairs area called The Grid. It’s designed to feel like a speakeasy and you even enter it through a door that looks like an old Tron arcade game. It’s a cool touch that really fits the whole retro gaming theme, kind of like what you might find at a New Orleans arcade bar, but with its own unique San Francisco twist.
The Wreck Room
Tucked away in Nob Hill, The Wreck Room might initially look like a place you’d only find after a long night out, but don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you. This spot is a genuine gem for anyone looking to have a good time. It’s packed with a surprising variety of entertainment options that go beyond just the usual arcade fare.
When you step inside, you’ll find more than just flashing lights and video games. They’ve got a solid lineup of activities to keep you busy:
- Pool table
- Skee-ball
- A punching bag
- Shuffleboard
Beyond the games, the bar features large TVs, making it a good place to catch a game while you’re hanging out. The space is laid out well, so you and your friends can spread out without feeling too cramped. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a few hours, whether you’re aiming for a high score or just enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
This bar proves that sometimes the best spots are the ones you have to look a little harder to find. It’s got a bit of everything for a casual night out.
Emperor Norton’s BoozeLand
Emperor Norton’s BoozeLand, named after San Francisco’s most famous eccentric, is a spot in the Tenderloin that really leans into its unique character. It’s got this comfortable, lived-in vibe that feels welcoming to just about anyone. You can find a few video games here to keep you occupied, alongside a shuffleboard table. It’s the kind of place where you can just relax, grab a drink, and maybe challenge a friend to a quick game without any fuss.
This bar embraces a certain kind of San Francisco spirit, one that’s a little quirky and definitely unpretentious. It’s a place to unwind and enjoy some simple entertainment.
It’s a great low-key option if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere with a touch of gaming.
BuzzWorks
BuzzWorks is a sports bar that really leans into keeping its patrons entertained. You’ve got your standard bar games like pool and foosball, but they also throw in a row of arcade games to keep things interesting. It’s not a huge arcade, but there are enough classics to get your fix.
They serve their own food, which is pretty decent – think nachos and sausages. But here’s a cool thing: they’ve got a deal with the pizza place next door, DNA Pizza. So, if you’re with a group and everyone wants something different, or you just really want pizza, it’s super convenient. It’s a solid spot if you want to catch a game and have some casual fun without a huge commitment.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Pool tables
- Foosball
- A selection of arcade games
- On-site kitchen for snacks and meals
- Partnership with DNA Pizza for easy food ordering
BuzzWorks manages to blend the sports bar vibe with a bit of arcade nostalgia, making it a good all-around choice for a relaxed night out.
The Willows
The Willows is a spot that feels like it’s got a bit of everything going on. It’s the sister bar to The Sycamore, which is a pretty well-known place in the Mission. What sets The Willows apart is its larger space and a kitchen that actually puts out more substantial pub food, like burgers.
When it comes to games, they’ve got a few pinball machines to keep you busy, and there’s also a big pool table. It seems to be a popular hangout for people after work, probably because you can grab a drink, play some games, and just relax.
It’s not exactly the fanciest place you’ll ever go to, but that’s kind of part of its charm. It feels more lived-in, you know?
- Games: Pinball machines, Pool table
- Food: Burgers, other pub grub
- Vibe: Casual, after-work crowd
While it might not win awards for being spotless, The Willows definitely makes up for it with its character and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a low-key place to unwind.
Bear Vs. Bull
Tucked away upstairs at the historic Alamo Drafthouse in the Mission, Bear Vs. Bull offers a more laid-back arcade experience. It’s not a massive space, but it makes good use of what it has. The real draw here is the collection of pinball machines, many with classic movie themes. Think ‘The Big Lebowski,’ ‘The Simpsons,’ and ‘Star Wars’ – perfect for a pre- or post-movie hangout.
While the cocktail program is solid and they have a decent beer list, the upstairs mezzanine is where the gaming action is. It’s a cozy spot, so don’t expect a huge crowd, but it’s a great place to get in a few games without feeling overwhelmed.
This is a good option if you’re already catching a film at the Drafthouse or just want a quieter place to play some pinball with a good drink in hand.
Outer Orbit
Outer Orbit is a really fun spot on Mission Street that feels super cheerful with its bright lights and cool decor. It’s a place that welcomes families, but when the evening rolls around, it shifts into a great hangout for adults with a good selection of beers, including some tropical-flavored ones, and lighter cocktails. They’ve got nine pinball machines, which is pretty awesome, and one of them is even a rotating historic machine from the Pacific Pinball Museum – how neat is that?
What really sets Outer Orbit apart, though, is the food. They serve up Hawaiian grub, so you can grab things like spam musubi, guava-smoked pork shoulder, and even some shaved ice for dessert. It’s the perfect fuel for a long pinball session. It’s a unique combination of classic arcade fun and tasty, themed food that makes it stand out.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Pinball Machines: Nine in total, including a rotating historic machine.
- Drinks: Tropical-leaning beers and low-proof cocktails.
- Food: Hawaiian-inspired dishes like spam musubi and guava-smoked pork shoulder.
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly during the day, adult-focused in the evening, with bright and cheerful decor.
It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a few hours, whether you’re trying to beat your high score on a pinball machine or just enjoying some good food and drinks with friends.
Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack
Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack is a spot that really leans into its quirky charm. It’s the kind of place where the menus are handwritten, almost like a kid drew them, which just adds to the whole vibe. While it’s primarily a family-friendly pasta joint, they’ve tucked away a small game area that’s perfect for a little break from the table. You might even miss it if you’re not looking, but they’ve got a few arcade games, including a Dolly Parton pinball machine, and even a photo booth.
It’s not a massive arcade, but it’s a fun addition to the dining experience.
The whole atmosphere feels delightfully mismatched, like a collection of treasures found over many years. It’s this unpretentious, lived-in feel that makes it a comfortable place to hang out.
If you’re looking for a place with a few games that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Emmy’s is worth checking out. It’s a good option if you’re dining with kids or just want a casual, fun atmosphere with a touch of nostalgia.
Thriller Social Club
Walking into Thriller Social Club is like stepping into a fever dream where a carnival meets a vintage arcade, and they decided to throw in a top-of-the-line golf simulator for good measure. It’s a lot, in the best possible way. You’ve got a disco ball and a giant clown head hanging from the ceiling, and upstairs, an inflatable unicorn chilling with a taxidermied deer. Seriously, this place is built for groups looking to blow off steam after a long week, or for those dates where you just need to prove you’re better at Skee-ball than your companion.
They’ve got all the classics you’d expect, like Skee-ball, Whac-A-Mole, and air hockey, so you can get your game on. And when all that intense competition makes you hungry, they’ve got you covered with a menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and burgers. It’s the kind of spot that makes even a regular Tuesday feel like a party.
This two-story establishment is designed for group gatherings, happy hours, and competitive dates. You can easily get lost in the fun, trying to set new high scores on the punching machine or air hockey.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might find:
- Classic arcade games like Skee-ball and Whac-A-Mole
- Air hockey for some head-to-head action
- A punching machine to test your strength
- Wood-fired pizzas and burgers to refuel
Mission Bowling Club
If you’re looking for a place that combines bowling with a solid bar experience, Mission Bowling Club is definitely worth checking out. Housed in what used to be an old warehouse, this spot offers six bowling lanes, which is pretty cool if you’re trying to organize a group outing or just want to get a few frames in with friends. They’ve got a full bar, so you can grab a drink while you wait for your turn or after a particularly good (or bad) roll.
Beyond the bowling, they also serve up a decent food menu. Think wood-fired pizzas and burgers, plus options like a jerk chicken sandwich and popcorn chicken. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a few hours, bowling, eating, and just hanging out.
It’s a straightforward concept: bowling, drinks, and food, all under one roof.
It’s a good option for a casual date night or a birthday celebration where you want a bit more activity than just sitting around a table. The vibe is pretty relaxed, making it easy to just enjoy yourself without any fuss.
Golden Gate Tap Room
If you’re looking for a place to catch a game and maybe play a few rounds of Skee-Ball, the Golden Gate Tap Room in Union Square is a solid choice. This spot has a ton of TVs, so you won’t miss any of the action, no matter where you’re sitting. Beyond the screens, they’ve got other bar games like pool and foosball to keep you occupied. It’s a great spot for sports fans who also enjoy a bit of friendly competition. When hunger strikes, they’ve got a menu that includes things like popcorn shrimp and quesabirria tacos, so you can fuel up between games or while watching your favorite team. It’s definitely one of the places to consider when thinking about the Best Arcade Bar San Francisco has to offer, especially if your idea of fun involves a mix of sports and games.
Silver Cloud
If belting out your favorite power ballads with a room full of strangers sounds like your idea of a good time, then Silver Cloud is the spot for you. This Marina district karaoke bar is always buzzing, with folks lining up for their chance to grab the mic or squeezing into the photo booth for some memorable snaps.
The energy here is infectious, turning even a casual night out into a full-blown performance. While the singing might lean more towards enthusiastic shouting than perfect pitch, that’s really part of the charm. It’s a place where you can let loose and have some fun without any judgment.
It’s a classic San Francisco experience, especially if you’re looking for a spot that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Just be ready to wait your turn if you’ve got a song in your heart and a tune on your lips.
The Game Parlour
The Game Parlour is a spot that really leans into the classic arcade experience. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, hopping from one machine to another. They’ve got a solid collection of games that cover a good range of eras and styles.
If you’re looking for a place to get your game on, here’s what you might find:
- Pinball Machines: Expect a variety of classic and maybe some newer pinball tables to test your flipper skills.
- Video Arcade Games: From fighting games to racing simulators and vintage classics like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong, they usually have a good mix.
- Other Tabletop Games: Sometimes places like this will also have air hockey or other table games to add to the fun.
It’s a good option if you’re trying to find a spot that feels a bit more focused on the games themselves, rather than just having a few machines tucked away in a corner. The atmosphere is usually pretty lively, especially on weekends, with people gathered around the popular games.
When you’re deciding where to go, think about what kind of games you and your friends enjoy most. Some places have a lot of fighting games, while others are heavy on the retro stuff. It’s always a good idea to check their social media or website beforehand to see what they have and if they have any special events going on.
Barebottle Brewing Company
Barebottle Brewing Company is a spot in Bernal Heights that really brings out your inner kid. It’s also one of the few places on this list that welcomes families. Inside this big, warehouse-like space, you’ll find shuffleboard, pinball, and, quite notably, one of only four Killer Queen consoles in the entire city. It’s a great place to hang out, grab a pint of one of their creatively named beers, like “Rainbow Road Shortcut” or “Tiramisu Ti Amo,” and just enjoy the atmosphere.
This brewery is always buzzing, likely due to its fun atmosphere and unique game selection.
Here’s a quick look at what makes Barebottle stand out:
- Killer Queen Console: A rare find, this multi-player arcade game is a major draw.
- Variety of Games: Beyond Killer Queen, they offer pinball and shuffleboard.
- Kid-Friendly Environment: Unlike many arcade bars, Barebottle is welcoming to families.
- Unique Beer Names: Their beer list features playful and memorable names.
The brewery often hosts events, including karaoke on Mondays and DJs or live musicians on other nights, making it a lively destination any day of the week. They even have Thursday night bingo, adding another layer of fun to their already packed schedule.
The Detour
If you’re looking for a spot that really leans into the competitive spirit, The Detour in the Duboce Triangle neighborhood is your place. They host Super Smash Bros. tournaments every Monday night, which is a pretty unique draw for an arcade bar. Even if you’re not competing, it’s fun to watch the action unfold on their big projector screen.
Beyond the tournament scene, The Detour has a solid collection of arcade games lining the walls. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an evening trying to beat your high score on classics like Pac-Man or Skee-ball. It’s a great casual spot to bring a date or just hang out with friends and get a little competitive.
This bar is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys a bit of friendly competition alongside their drinks. The atmosphere is usually lively, especially on tournament nights, but it’s still approachable for a casual visit.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might find:
- Super Smash Bros. Tournaments (Mondays)
- A wide variety of classic arcade games
- A projector screen for viewing tournaments or other events
- A good spot for casual hangouts and dates
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of games can I expect to find at these bars?
You’ll find a mix of old and new games! Think classic arcade cabinets like Pac-Man and Street Fighter, along with pinball machines, skeeball, and sometimes even pool tables or shuffleboard. Some places might even have modern consoles or VR setups.
Are these places good for parties?
Absolutely! Arcade bars are awesome for parties like birthdays or just hanging out with friends. Many offer special party packages that can include reserved game areas and deals on food and drinks. The lively atmosphere with all the games makes it super fun for groups.
What’s the vibe like at these spots?
The vibe is usually energetic and fun. Imagine the sounds of classic games, people cheering, and upbeat music. It’s a great place to let loose, have some friendly competition, and enjoy a good time with friends.
Do they serve food and drinks?
Yes, they do! Most of these bars offer a selection of drinks, from craft beers to cocktails, and some even have themed drinks. Many also serve food, like snacks, burgers, or pizza, so you can fuel up while you play.
Can I go to these places if I’m not a big gamer?
Definitely! Even if you’re not a hardcore gamer, the atmosphere is still really enjoyable. You can just hang out, grab a drink, watch your friends play, or try a few simple games. It’s more about the social experience and fun.
What makes arcade bars popular?
People love arcade bars because they bring back a fun, retro vibe that’s different from just going to a regular bar. It’s a chance to play games with friends, enjoy some friendly competition, and create memorable experiences in a lively setting.
