Barcade, Los Angeles, CA - Image 1
1 / 3

Barcade

4.5
·599 reviews·Los Angeles, United States

Nostalgic arcade bar with craft beer, pub grub, and a vast collection of classic video games and pinball machines.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, more game time

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Barcade, Los Angeles, CA - Image 1

Barcade

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, more game time

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Nostalgic arcade bar with craft beer, pub grub, and a vast collection of classic video games and pinball machines.

4.5
(599 reviews)

"A nerd's gaming Barcade paradise! TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Game Your Way

Bring cash for games, though cards are accepted. Your $5 can go far!

🍻 Order at the Bar

Grab drinks & food at the bar, then find a table. They'll bring it to you.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Retro Arcade Classics

Retro Arcade Classics

Main Floor

Relive your youth with a vast collection of beloved throwback arcade games. Nostalgia overload!

Pinball Wizardry

Pinball Wizardry

Designated Pinball Area

Test your skills on a variety of pinball machines, a favorite for many visitors.

Reddit
Craft Beer & Pub Grub

Craft Beer & Pub Grub

Bar & Dining Area

Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers and elevated pub fare while you game.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Secure Your Spot

Barcade can get packed, especially on weekends. Arrive early or on a weeknight for a more relaxed experience. Ordering at the bar is the norm, so be prepared for a short wait to place your drink and food orders before finding a table. TikTokReddit

Game On: Budgeting & Game Variety

Your $5 can go a long way here, with games generally being affordable. While classic cabinets are a hit, Redditors suggest checking out the pinball machines too! TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weeknights
Why
Fewer crowds, more game time
Crowd
Low
When
Friday/Saturday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, good vibes
Crowd
High
When
Early afternoons
Why
Chill vibe, easier to get seats
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A Nerd’s gaming Barcade paradise! 👾#californiatravel #gaming #losangeles #foryou #twitchstreamer #coding #vrgame #thingstodoinLA #hiddengems
@vicheka.ek
99 likes • 5.2K views

🎯 Game Your Way

Bring cash for games, though cards are accepted. Your $5 can go far! TikTokReddit

🍻 Order at the Bar

Grab drinks & food at the bar, then find a table. They'll bring it to you. Reddit

come spend date night with us at the barcade in los angeles <3 #datenight #datenightideas #summer #alttiktok #barcade @Grace
@aliireyn
96 likes • 757 views
#barcade #losangeles #arcade #fyp #fypシ゚viral #datenight #arcadegames #bar
@baabyyashh
36 likes • 1.3K views

🚗 Parking Pointers

Parking can be tricky in the area; consider ride-sharing or public transport. Reddit

🎶 Vibe Check

Expect great music and a fun atmosphere, perfect for date nights or friend hangouts. TikTok+1

Your sign to go to a cool arcade 👾🎮🕹️ #barcade #classicgames #arcadegames #losangeles #thingstodoinla
@amberpineapplee
5.3K likes • 96K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Game Your Way

Bring cash for games, though cards are accepted. Your $5 can go far! TikTokReddit

🍻 Order at the Bar

Grab drinks & food at the bar, then find a table. They'll bring it to you. Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

Parking can be tricky in the area; consider ride-sharing or public transport. Reddit

🎶 Vibe Check

Expect great music and a fun atmosphere, perfect for date nights or friend hangouts. TikTok+1

💡 Ask the Bartender

David, who often works Friday/Saturday, is a great guy to chat with! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(599 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Barcade is a beloved spot for its extensive collection of retro arcade games and pinball machines, offering a nostalgic and fun experience. Visitors praise the great atmosphere, friendly bartenders, and good selection of craft beers. While parking can be a challenge and some find the food slightly overpriced, the overall vibe and affordable game prices make it a highly recommended destination for a night out with friends or a unique date.

"Fun place to go with friends and play some retro cabinet games and other games I'm sure you haven't heard of. The pinball games are awesome. Would like to see more pinball games be added. More games and tables going to the back of the building. Restroom located in the middle(heading towards the back) Clean dining areas. Real Awesome Bartenders! Great beer/liquor/spirits/wine variety. Order at the bar, they'll give you a number and you can just choose a table. Super full when I went but the vibes were great. Awesome music and atmosphere. Good luck with Parking 🤞"

F “LUCIFER” U

"Updated pictures of all games in my review! ALL GAMES are in pics. I loved it here! Games are cheap drinks that are fairly priced. I didn't try the food.
My favorite games are metal slug and Marvel vs. Capcom.
I'd definitely recommend this place."

Joshua Gonzalez

"Super chill spot! My $5 went a long way. Great variety of games to be played. The place is definitely a vibe. Get your friends together for drinks and fun at the Barcade!"

LaToya Dixon

What People Like

Retro arcade games
Great atmosphere
Craft beer selection

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Food price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Barcade is located at 5684 York Blvd. Many visitors recommend using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft due to challenging parking in the area. Public transport is also an option, with bus routes serving the Highland Park neighborhood. TikTokReddit

Parking near Barcade can be difficult to find, especially during peak hours. Street parking is limited, and it's advisable to factor in extra time if you plan to drive or consider alternative transportation. Reddit

For a stress-free night, ride-sharing is highly recommended. This allows everyone to enjoy the craft beer and spirits without worrying about driving. TikTokReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you don't need to purchase tickets in advance. Entry is typically free, and you pay per game. Reddit

Barcade generally opens in the afternoon and stays open late into the night, making it a great spot for evening entertainment. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours. TikTok

Barcade is generally an 21+ establishment, especially during evening hours when the bar and nightlife atmosphere is in full swing. Always verify current age policies before your visit. TikTok

Game prices are very reasonable, with many visitors noting that their money goes a long way. Expect most games to cost around $0.25 to $1.00 per play. Reddit

Some reviews mention that Barcade scans IDs for entry. While this is for age verification, some patrons express concerns about data privacy. Reddit

🎫 🎮 Onsite Experience

Barcade boasts a fantastic selection of retro arcade games, including classics like Metal Slug and Marvel vs. Capcom, as well as a variety of pinball machines. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Barcade is frequently recommended for date nights, offering a fun, interactive, and nostalgic experience with drinks and games. TikTok+1

The atmosphere is described as super chill, with great music and vibes. It's a popular spot for friends to gather for drinks and fun. TikTokReddit

While Barcade can get busy, there's a good variety of games. Some visitors suggest more pinball machines would be a welcome addition. Reddit

Yes, they often play Laker games on Spectrum in the back bar area, making it a fun spot for sports fans too. Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

Barcade offers elevated pub grub. Popular items include lemon pepper cauliflower and nachos, though some find the food a bit pricey. Reddit

Opinions vary, with some finding the food okay but a little overpriced compared to other local spots. However, many enjoy it as part of the overall Barcade experience. Reddit

Barcade has a great variety of craft beers, spirits, and wines. The bartenders are noted as being awesome and friendly. Reddit

You order at the bar and then find an available table. Reservations are generally not taken; it's first-come, first-served. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant energy of the arcade with shots of the classic game cabinets, neon lights, and your friends enjoying the games. The retro aesthetic makes for great photos. TikTok+1

Yes, the lighting is generally good for photos, especially around the game screens. Be mindful of other patrons when taking pictures. TikTok

Absolutely! The craft beers and pub grub are visually appealing and make for great social media content. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Barcade is primarily an adult-focused venue (often 21+), families might find it suitable for early afternoon visits on days when it's less crowded and more family-friendly. The retro games can be a hit with older children and teens who appreciate classic gaming. However, be aware that the atmosphere can shift to a more adult nightlife vibe as the evening progresses. TikTok

It's best to check their specific hours and age policies for the day you plan to visit. If you do go with family, focus on the games and perhaps share some appetizers. Remember that parking can be a hassle, so planning your arrival and departure is key. Reddit

👫 Couples on a Date Night

Barcade is a highly recommended spot for date nights. The combination of nostalgic arcade games, a wide selection of craft beers, and a lively atmosphere creates a fun and interactive experience. TikTok+1 It's a great way to break the ice and engage in some friendly competition. TikTok

Consider arriving a bit earlier to secure a good spot, or be prepared for a lively crowd if you visit during peak hours. Ordering at the bar is part of the experience, and the bartenders are known for being friendly. Reddit Enjoy the music, the games, and the chance to relive some retro fun together.

💰 Budget Travelers

Barcade can be surprisingly budget-friendly, especially if you focus on the games. Many visitors note that their money goes a long way, with games costing as little as $0.25 to $1.00 per play. Reddit This allows you to enjoy a significant amount of gaming time without breaking the bank. TikTok

While the food might be a bit pricier for some, you can opt to just enjoy the games and perhaps share a drink. Weeknights are ideal for avoiding cover charges (if any) and enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere without the weekend rush. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Barcade Experience: More Than Just Games

Barcade isn't just an arcade; it's a carefully curated blend of nostalgia, craft beverages, and a lively social scene. The brick-walled interior and throwback decor create an immersive atmosphere that transports visitors back to the golden age of gaming. TikTok+1 It's a place where the clatter of joysticks and the glow of CRT screens mingle with the chatter of friends and the clinking of glasses. The selection of games is a major draw, featuring beloved classics that spark fond memories and introduce new generations to the joy of physical arcade play. Reddit

Beyond the games, the craft beer selection is a significant highlight. Barcade prides itself on offering a rotating list of local and independent brews, ensuring there's always something new to discover for beer enthusiasts. Complementing the drinks is an elevated pub grub menu, featuring items like their popular lemon pepper cauliflower and nachos. While some find the food a bit pricey, it’s generally well-received and adds to the overall experience of a relaxed, fun night out. Reddit

Community and atmosphere are key components of Barcade's appeal. It's a popular spot for date nights, friend gatherings, and even casual hangouts. The staff, particularly the bartenders, are often praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. TikTokReddit Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a unique night out, Barcade offers a vibrant and engaging environment that appeals to a wide audience.

Navigating Barcade: Tips from the Community

When planning your visit to Barcade, keep in mind that it's a popular spot, especially on weekends. Arriving early is often recommended to snag a good spot and avoid the longest waits. Ordering is done at the bar, so be prepared for a brief queue to place your drink and food orders before you find a table. TikTokReddit Many visitors find that their money stretches well here, with games being affordably priced, making it easy to spend an hour or two enjoying a variety of classics. Reddit

Parking is consistently mentioned as a challenge in the area. To ensure a smooth experience, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or opt for public transportation. This also allows you to fully enjoy the extensive craft beer selection without any driving concerns. TikTokReddit The vibe is consistently described as fun and energetic, with great music playing, making it an ideal location for a lively night out with friends or a unique date. TikTok+1

For those interested in specific game recommendations, pinball machines are a hit, though some patrons wish there were even more. Classics like Metal Slug and Marvel vs. Capcom are also frequently mentioned as favorites. Reddit Don't hesitate to chat with the bartenders, like David who often works Friday and Saturday nights, as they can offer great insights and add to the friendly atmosphere. Reddit