Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe

★★★★★

“This place is such a hidden Austin gem, we can’t believe we stumbled upon it by accident. Emerald Tavern is a board game and card game focused tavern and cafe serving up delicious bites in between unlimited play for just $10 (day pass; you can select your board games at the front). The deal itself is good enough but this place is just awesome. Our waiter was fantastic, funny and informative; the staff clearly cares deeply about what they do, and the concept is just so cool. We came early on a Sunday and the place was packed by the time we left it, which the waiter warned it would be. The hot chocolate and matcha drink we had were great and had we not eaten before we got there we would’ve dove straight into their pretty extensive menu. The whole place is just fun and cool and exemplifies the adage of “Keep Austin Weird”, which we love. There were people of all ages there playing games from Catan to Chameleon to Monopoly, there’s something for everyone. They also have an extensive card and figurine collection so if you’re into collecting things this may be a spot to search for some worthwhile stuff. If you like board games, D&D, or anything alike then you HAVE to give this place a try, it’s just a fantastic spot.”

★★★★★

“I read reviews as I sat to decide what to order and was curious with so many recent bad reviews. We had the spinach dip, great, with so much bread and the entrees we got were all good and on point, above average. Fish and chips Id recommend. Plenty of beverage options, lots of game options in house but we brought our own. No odd smells, service was good, they gave us time and pace to play while eating and drinking. Excited to go back soon.”

★★★★★

“A great gaming pub and store with plenty of space. They have a larger miniatures and paint selection than you'd expect. And the TTRPG section is well stocked with both D&D, Pathfinder, and other games. Make sure to reserve a table on busy nights. The drinks are excellent and cocktails are the price you'd expect at any bar. Coffee, espresso drinks and tea is also available. The food is good but nothing to write home about. It's mainly there to keep you fed while gaming with friends. Rentable rooms are a little tight for the money they charge.”

★★★★★

“I really do love this place, our server seemed new and didnt keep up with our table well, but the next people sid great. The atmosphere is always wonderful, though if the ac was more powerful I think it would be good because it gets busy and hot but I love the design of the place and I love the music playing in the background. The food ranges from very good to sort of bland and overpriced, but the drinks are top notch and the ability to rent a table is really nice for a communal place to play games without having to figure out also where to eat. Reserving a table is your best bet, but sometimes there are tables on the bar side ans the bar is always an option.”