Snakes and Lattes is the name of a well-known board game cafe chain, but the phrase itself is a playful pun that combines the classic board game Snakes and Ladders with the coffee drink latte. The first Snakes and Lattes cafe opened in Toronto, Canada, in 2010, and the name has since become synonymous with the board game cafe trend that spread across North America.
Origin of the Name
The name “Snakes and Lattes” is a deliberate wordplay on Snakes and Ladders, the ancient Indian board game known in its original form as Moksha Patam or Gyan Chaupar. The game was brought to England in the 19th century and later commercialized as Snakes and Ladders by Milton Bradley in 1943. The cafe’s founders, Ben Castanie and Jody Colero, chose the name to signal both the playful nature of the establishment and its focus on board games and coffee. The pun is effective because “lattes” rhymes with “ladders,” making the name memorable and instantly evoking the game.
How the Board Game Cafe Concept Works
A board game cafe like Snakes and Lattes operates on a simple model: customers pay a cover fee (often around $5 to $10 per person) to access a large library of board games, and they are encouraged to order food and drinks while they play. The first Snakes and Lattes location in Toronto had over 1,000 board games on its shelves, ranging from classic family games like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern strategy games like Catan and Ticket to Ride. Staff members, often called “game gurus,” are trained to recommend games based on group size, age, and experience level. The cafe also hosts themed events, tournaments, and trivia nights, which help build a regular community of patrons.
Choosing a Board Game Cafe
When deciding whether to visit a board game cafe, consider the following factors:
- Game library size and variety: A good cafe should have hundreds of games, including both classics and new releases. Check if they have a website or social media listing their collection.
- Cover charge and time limits: Some cafes charge per hour, while others charge a flat fee for unlimited play. Look for transparent pricing and reasonable time limits (typically 2-3 hours).
- Food and drink quality: Since the cafe relies on food sales, the menu should be more than just snacks. Many offer full meals, craft coffee, and specialty drinks.
- Staff knowledge: Friendly staff who can teach games are essential, especially for newcomers. Read reviews to see if the staff are helpful.
- Ambiance and seating: Comfortable seating, good lighting, and tables large enough for game boards make a big difference.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that board game cafes are only for hardcore gamers. In reality, most cafes cater to casual players and families, with a large selection of party games and easy-to-learn titles. Another issue is that some people expect to play for free if they buy food, but the cover charge is standard practice because it allows the cafe to maintain its game collection and pay staff. A frequent practical problem is that games can get damaged or missing pieces; reputable cafes regularly check and replace games, but it’s always wise to inspect a game before playing. Also, during peak hours, cafes can be noisy and crowded, so booking a table in advance is recommended.
Snakes and Lattes vs. Other Game Cafes
Snakes and Lattes is often compared to other board game cafes like Brews & Board Games in Toronto or The Uncommons in New York City. The main differences are usually in the size of the game library, the food menu, and the overall vibe. Snakes and Lattes has expanded to multiple locations in Toronto, as well as in Tempe, Arizona, and Chicago, Illinois. What sets it apart is its scale—the original location has a massive two-story space with a bar and a full kitchen. In contrast, smaller cafes might focus more on a cozy, intimate setting. The pricing model is similar across most such venues, but Snakes and Lattes has been a pioneer in popularizing the concept in North America.
Costs and Value
The cost of visiting a board game cafe varies by location, but you can generally expect to pay around $5 to $10 per person for a two-hour session. Food and drinks are additional, with coffee typically $3 to $5 and sandwiches or pizzas $10 to $15. Some cafes offer membership packages or discounts for students and groups. The value comes from the entertainment: playing a new board game for a few hours costs less than a movie ticket and includes social interaction. For example, a group of four could spend $40 total on cover charges and share a few appetizers, which is comparable to a night out at a bar.
Safety and Etiquette
While board game cafes are generally safe, there are a few etiquette rules to follow. Always handle game pieces with clean hands, and avoid eating or drinking directly over the board. If you accidentally damage a game, inform the staff immediately—most cafes will not charge you for minor accidents, but it’s honest to report it. Also, be mindful of the time limit; the staff will often give a warning, but it’s courteous to wrap up your game a few minutes before the end. For parents, many cafes have a dedicated kids’ section with age-appropriate games, but it’s wise to check if the cafe is family-friendly before bringing young children.
Alternatives to Board Game Cafes
If you don’t have a board game cafe nearby, or if you prefer a different setting, there are several alternatives. You can host a game night at home with friends, borrowing games from a local library—many public libraries now lend board games. Another option is to join a board game meetup group, which often meets in community centers or bars. Some restaurants and bars host weekly game nights, and there are even online platforms like Tabletopia or Board Game Arena that let you play games virtually. For a more upscale experience, some hotels and resorts offer board game lounges. Each alternative has its own pros and cons, but the cafe model remains popular because it combines a social atmosphere with a vast game selection and food service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Snakes and Lattes a real place?
Yes, Snakes and Lattes is a real board game cafe chain with locations in Toronto, Canada; Tempe, Arizona; and Chicago, Illinois. The original location opened in 2010 and became a model for many other board game cafes.
Do you have to pay to play games at Snakes and Lattes?
Yes, there is a cover charge, typically around $5 to $10 per person for a two-hour session. This fee gives you access to the entire game library, and you can play as many games as you like during your time.
Can I bring my own board games to a board game cafe?
Most board game cafes, including Snakes and Lattes, do not allow outside games because they want to support their own collection and ensure quality. However, you can always ask the staff if they have a specific game you want to play; they might have it or can suggest a similar one.
Are board game cafes suitable for children?
Many board game cafes are family-friendly, especially during daytime hours. Snakes and Lattes has a kids’ section with games for younger players, but it’s best to check the specific location’s policy, as some may have age restrictions during evening hours.
What if I don’t know how to play any board games?
That’s exactly what the staff are there for. Game gurus can teach you any game in the library, and they are skilled at matching games to your experience level. You can also ask for recommendations for easy-to-learn games like Dixit or Codenames.
Can I host a private event at a board game cafe?
Yes, most board game cafes offer private event packages for birthdays, corporate team-building, or other gatherings. These packages often include a reserved area, food and drink minimums, and sometimes a dedicated game host. Contact the specific location for details and pricing.
Related
- Ethnic Groups of Lithuania: A Full Guide
- Frankie Bridge Boucle Armchair: Style & Care
- Thrushes in the UK: Species, Habits & Where to See
How pages are sourced and corrected: Sources and editorial policy.