Next Level Board Game Cafe

888 Villa St, Mountain View, CA 94041, United States
+1 650-564-3352
$$$ Cafe
(135 Reviews)

Located in the heart of Downtown Mountain View, the Next Level Board Game Cafe is not just a cafe—it's a thriving hub for board game enthusiasts and casual players alike. Situated at 888 Villa St, Mountain View, CA 94041, this unique destination seamlessly combines a warm and inviting atmosphere with an extensive collection of games and delicious food options, making it an ideal spot for friends looking to elevate their game nights.

What sets the Next Level Board Game Cafe apart is its impressive selection of board games, with shelves brimming with titles ranging from classic favorites to new releases. Whether you're an experienced player or someone stepping into this delightful world for the first time, the dedicated staff is always on hand to provide recommendations and explain game rules with patience and clarity. As Carolina Minami Oguchi wonderfully puts it, it feels like a huge living room where you can relax, play, and even forge new friendships.

The dining experience here is equally remarkable. The cafe offers a diverse drink menu featuring craft beers from Original Pattern Brewing Co and Devil's Canyon Brewing Co. Enjoy a refreshing For Fox Sake..! Lager for just $10, or try the Mountain Of Mayhem DIPA for a hoppy kick at $12. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, sip on the Kaleidoscope Strawberry Lime Sour at $10 or indulge in their delicious non-alcoholic options like the Devil's Canyon Root Beer for $6. Recently, they've also revamped their menu to include food that pairs perfectly with your gaming sessions—satisfy your cravings while you strategize with friends!

This cafe isn’t just about fun and games; it's a welcoming space where the atmosphere enhances every moment spent there. As noted by reviewers like Kylee Burgess, the pricing is exceptionally reasonable, charging just $7 per person for unlimited gameplay—an incredible value considering the friendly service and vibrant ambience. The decor, featuring partial walls painted in various themes, creates cozy nooks perfect for different group sizes, allowing for an energetic atmosphere that's never overwhelming. Jennie Huo appreciates the thought put into the cafe's layout, ensuring players can engage in spirited competition without feeling closed off from one another.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, occasional experiences have been noted, such as the inconsistent customer service from a few staff members. However, the majority reflect the cafe's commitment to fostering a delightful experience, commending the patience and friendliness of most employees, which resonates well with those looking to connect over games and food.

Whether you're a seasoned board game master or a newcomer eager to learn, Next Level Board Game Cafe promises an experience that’s engaging and enjoyable. From the enticing menu to the colorful, inviting space, you’re bound to find a reason to return to this local gem time and time again. Don’t miss out on discovering your new favorite game or trying a delicious meal that complements your gaming experience.

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

05:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

05:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

135 Reviews
Andrew Fasano

09 Sep 2025

I love this place! They have an amazing collection of board games, great food, and friendly staff who can teach you how to play the games. The staff here are the real gems; their recommendations are spot on and they have a knack for explaining game rules swiftly, getting you into the action quicker. They create a welcoming atmosphere that complements the fun vibe of the cafe. Highly recommend for a unique and enjoyable gaming experience!

Jacob

14 Aug 2025

This place is amazing and most of the staff is lovely. The owners are patient and so kind so of course 5 stars. They have one employee that always rolls his eyes and looks like he just could not be bothered to be there or answer a simple question like “do you have x” this has happened a few times with him. So if you avoid the more overweight man sorry his jacket covered his name you will have an amazing time!

Jennie Huo

10 Jul 2025

I love that this board game cafe opened up right in the heart of Downtown Mountain View. The space is portioned off nicely with partial walls and nooks so people can play games of different group sizes in different spaces and have a section for their group if they like, without feeling too closed off. The walls for each section are painted in pretty different themes, as well. And lighting is excellent! There's open play, which means you don't need to come with a group and people are welcoming if you'd like to join their game. On Thursdays, we usually start with several quick (10-15 min) party games to warm up. Then, the staff takes a few minutes to highlight some games from their extensive collection (they highlight different games each week), a combination of games that some groups already know they want to play and have open space for more players as well as other games that people might be interested in learning more about. Then we break off into different groups depending on our interests and usually play a long game for most of the evening. The evening wraps up with the option of a quick party game for those waiting on friends at other tables. Shelf-stable snacks and drinks are available for purchase. Complimentary water carafes and cups are also available. Restrooms are clean. The space doesn't feel stuffy, and I love that it is safe and inviting (you don't have to worry about unwanted people aggressively hitting on you unlike some other settings). I only wish they were open more weeknights. And I hope they open a hot menu bar with delicious and thoughtful non-greasy food selection soon!

Kylee Burgess

04 Jul 2025

Had a great time! Very helpful staff to help you pick out a game. They have food and drinks now for very reasonable prices. And only $7 per person for all you can play (no time limit). Loved getting to try out a new game with friends while having some snacks. Will definitely be back.

leisy

01 Jul 2025

I've been visiting this board game cafe since June 2024 every month, and every visit is always amazing! I am so happy the kitchen got opened up, all the food I've tried is delicious, and everyone who work here is always helpful and nice. Also, it's easy to book events for larger groups via email. Definitely highly reccomend and I will be back many times

Lindsey Wang

18 Jun 2025

What a gem! The staff is super helpful and offer great recommendations for games. Whether you’re an experienced player or new to board games, there’s something for everyone. The food and drink selection seems solid. I had a beer and the turkey blt sandwich which was excellent. This is a great place to hang with friends and play some games.

Carolina Minami Oguchi

07 Jun 2025

I love this place so much! You can play any boardgames in their shelf and the staff will explain you the rules if you have any questions. It’s like a huge living room where you can stay with your friends and have fun. You can make new friends too! I’ll definitely come back!

Wendy chen

29 May 2025

Amazing place! They have a large selection and we got to try multiple different board games. The place is welcoming and staffs are friendly. Price is very affordable . Highly recommended for anyone who likes board games.

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