The Uncommons - Image 1
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The Uncommons

4.6
·2k reviews·New York, United States

NYC's ultimate board game cafe with hundreds of games, friendly staff, and a great atmosphere for friends and fun.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more tables

CrowdLow
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The Uncommons - Image 1

The Uncommons

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more tables

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

NYC's ultimate board game cafe with hundreds of games, friendly staff, and a great atmosphere for friends and fun.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A true NY gem with any board game you could think of and a very friendly, welcoming atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Tables are first-come, first-served. Get there early, especially on weekends, to snag a good spot. :seat:

💡 Ask for Game Recommendations

Staff are super helpful in guiding you to the perfect game for your group's interests. :bulb:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Board Game Library

Vast Board Game Library

Main gaming floor

Hundreds of classic and unique board games to choose from, perfect for any group size or interest.

Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

Service counter

Staff are praised for their helpfulness in explaining rules and recommending games for your group.

Reddit
Seasonal Menu Delights

Seasonal Menu Delights

Cafe area

Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, snacks, and drinks to fuel your gaming marathon.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as tables are first-come, first-served. Weekday afternoons are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed gaming experience. Consider visiting around opening time to secure your preferred spot and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Game On: Understanding the Fee Structure

There's a per-person fee for playing games, typically for a set duration. Factor this into your budget. While some reviews mention it's not 'kid-friendly' due to longer games, it's a great spot for adult groups seeking a unique hangout. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more tables
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Secure a table early
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (weekdays)
Why
Relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Who wants to spend their afternoon at a board game cafe? ☕️🎲🧩 📍The Uncommons in Greenwich Village 🎥 @elizabethfow #nyc #thingstodonyc #ny #meow
@newyorkbucketlist
22.7K likes • 232.2K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Tables are first-come, first-served. Get there early, especially on weekends, to snag a good spot. Reddit :seat:

💡 Ask for Game Recommendations

Staff are super helpful in guiding you to the perfect game for your group's interests. Reddit :bulb:

follow for more NYC recs under $20 🗽 📍The Uncommons @ 230 Thompson St (near Washington Sq Park + NYU) #theuncommons #boardgames #boardgamecafe #coffeeshop #hangoutspot #familyfun #freeactivities #freeinnyc #nycfreevents #affordable #nycgames #cheapdate #datespot #hangoutideas #nycdates #nycfamily #nyckids #kidsgames #nyu #washingtonsquarepark #cardgames #boardgame #catan #nyclife #nycvlogger #ny...
leaistraveling
9.4K likes • 200.1K views
Who wants to spend their afternoon at a board game cafe? ☕️🎲🧩 📍The Uncommons in Greenwich Village 🎥 @elizabethfowlerx #nyc #thingstodonyc #nyc
nybucketlist
30.9K likes • 626.2K views

⏳ Plan Your Game Time

Some games take hours, others minutes. Decide beforehand to maximize your 3-hour play session. Reddit :stopwatch:

💰 Game Fee & Food Costs

Factor in the per-person game fee and separate costs for food and drinks. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Monthly local market at the UnCommons in Las Vegas - Market in the Alley, pet & kid friendly 🫶🏽 Catch them next on 07.05.25 & 08.02.25 6PM-10PM at 6880 Helen Toland Street Las Vegas, NV 89113 @marketinthealley @uncommons.lv #lasvegas #marketinthealley #shoplocal #supportlocal
tiarappgyo
261 likes • 10.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Tables are first-come, first-served. Get there early, especially on weekends, to snag a good spot. Reddit :seat:

💡 Ask for Game Recommendations

Staff are super helpful in guiding you to the perfect game for your group's interests. Reddit :bulb:

⏳ Plan Your Game Time

Some games take hours, others minutes. Decide beforehand to maximize your 3-hour play session. Reddit :stopwatch:

💰 Game Fee & Food Costs

Factor in the per-person game fee and separate costs for food and drinks. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🤝 Solo Player Friendly?

While great for groups, solo players might find it easier to join existing games on busier nights. Reddit :handshake:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about The Uncommons as a vibrant NYC gem, praising its immense board game selection and the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff. It's a popular spot for groups seeking a fun, interactive experience, though some note it's more geared towards adults due to game complexity. The cafe's atmosphere and reasonable pricing contribute to its high appeal.

"15 dollars an hour for a table. Unless you’re not playing board games. Very cozy atmosphere and perfect if you and your friends love board games. Not a huge selection of drinks but enough. They host a lot of events and the people there for the events get priority when it comes to tables. My friends and I got lucky and it wasn’t too busy when we were there so we got to sit for however long we wanted."

Emine Yildirim

"This place is a true NY gem! I had previously visited but completely forgot to share my experience. As I was passing by through the neighborhood and had some time to spare I went in and Cooper took care of me. He had helped me pick this awesome game for a Friendsgiving and this time I had to thank him for guiding me with that choice. This place has any board game you could think of and the atmosphere is very friendly and welcoming. Please visit and bring friends to share yummy snacks and possibly challenge those friendships 😅"

Philippe Gilede

"Went here for a One Piece Card Game tournament. The tournament was well run, tables were clean, and the owners are extremely nice. The prices are reasonable and the owners are very attentive. I recommend you support this place as caring card shop owners are extremely rare nowadays. I will definitely be coming back here."

Ryan Kushner

What People Like

Vast board game library
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Great atmosphere for groups

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Not ideal for very young kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Uncommons is located in Greenwich Village, NYC. It's easily accessible by subway, with several stations nearby, including Washington Square Park. TikTokInstagram

Street parking in Greenwich Village can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach The Uncommons. TikTok

The subway is your best bet. Numerous lines stop within walking distance of the cafe, making it a convenient option for most visitors. TikTok

Yes, there are other places named 'The Uncommons,' including a popular board game cafe in NYC and a mixed-use development in Las Vegas with various businesses. Ensure you're looking for the NYC location for board games. TikTokInstagram+1

The Uncommons is conveniently located near Washington Square Park, a vibrant hub in Greenwich Village, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There's a per-person fee for playing games, typically allowing for up to 3 hours of gaming. Prices are reasonable and offer great value for the entertainment. Reddit

No, tables are on a first-come, first-served basis. It's highly recommended to arrive early, especially during peak hours or weekends, to secure a spot. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but generally, The Uncommons is open throughout the day and into the evening. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours. Instagram

While The Uncommons has a vast library, it's always a good idea to check their policy on bringing outside games, though their own collection is extensive. Reddit

The primary fee is for playing games. If you're just planning to grab a coffee or snack without playing, policies may vary, but the game fee is for dedicated play time. Reddit

🎫 🎲 Onsite Experience

The Uncommons boasts a massive library with hundreds of games, ranging from classics like Catan and Sorry to unique and lesser-known titles. Reddit

While it's primarily a group activity, on busier nights, you might be able to find open spots in ongoing games. It's more geared towards groups, but friendly patrons might welcome a new player. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a fantastic venue for birthday celebrations, offering a fun and interactive way to celebrate with friends. Reddit

The atmosphere is generally friendly, welcoming, and buzzing with the energy of people enjoying games. It's a great place to socialize and challenge friendships. Reddit

While not strictly 'kid-friendly' due to the nature of some longer games, it's a welcoming space for adults and older teens. Some Reddit users noted it's more adult-oriented. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

They offer a seasonal menu with sandwiches, light eats, coffee, and other beverages to keep you fueled during your gaming sessions. Reddit

Yes, you can enjoy your food and drinks at the tables while playing. It's a common practice to combine gaming with snacks and beverages. Reddit

The menu is seasonal, so options can change. It's best to inquire directly or check their current menu for specific dietary accommodations. Reddit

Prices are generally considered reasonable for a cafe in NYC, offering good value for the quality and convenience. Reddit

Yes, you can order food and drinks to your table, allowing you to stay immersed in your game without interruption. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, taking photos is generally fine, especially to capture your group enjoying games or the ambiance. Be mindful of other patrons' privacy. TikTok

The floor-to-ceiling game shelves offer a visually striking backdrop. The cafe area and unique game setups also make for great shots. TikTok

For professional shoots or commercial use, it's advisable to contact The Uncommons directly to inquire about their policies. TikTok

Many creators use The Uncommons as a backdrop for their content, so filming short videos is generally accepted. TikTokInstagram

Photos often feature groups of friends playing various board games, close-ups of unique game components, and the vibrant atmosphere of the cafe. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While The Uncommons is a fantastic spot for adults and teens, some Reddit users note it might not be ideal for very young children. This is primarily because many of the board games available are complex and can take several hours to play, which might be challenging for younger attention spans. Reddit

However, if your family enjoys strategy games and longer play sessions, it can still be a fun outing. Consider visiting during less busy times and choosing simpler, quicker games from their extensive library. The friendly staff can also help recommend age-appropriate options. Reddit

👫 Couples on a Date

The Uncommons offers a unique and interactive date experience, moving beyond the typical dinner-and-a-movie. It's a great way to spark conversation, friendly competition, and shared laughter. Instagram

Choose a game that suits both your interests, grab some snacks and drinks, and enjoy a few hours of quality time together. The relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to learn something new together can make for a memorable date. Reddit

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Groups of Friends

This is where The Uncommons truly shines! It's the perfect venue for a group of friends looking for a fun and engaging activity. With hundreds of games to choose from, you can easily find something that appeals to everyone, from casual party games to in-depth strategy challenges. TikTokReddit

Book a table early, order some food and drinks, and get ready for an afternoon or evening filled with laughter, friendly rivalry, and memorable moments. It's an excellent alternative to a typical bar or restaurant outing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Board Game Experience

The Uncommons is a haven for board game enthusiasts, boasting an impressive library of hundreds of titles. From timeless classics like Catan and Monopoly to more niche and complex strategy games, there's something for every taste and skill level. The per-person fee grants you access to this extensive collection for a set period, usually around three hours, making it an excellent value for a full afternoon or evening of entertainment. Reddit

What sets The Uncommons apart is not just the sheer volume of games, but also the knowledgeable and friendly staff. They are often praised for their willingness to explain rules, recommend games based on group size and preferences, and ensure a smooth gaming experience. This is particularly helpful for those new to certain games or looking to discover something different. TikTokReddit

While the primary draw is the gaming, the cafe also offers a seasonal menu of sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. This allows you to stay comfortably seated and fueled throughout your gaming session, making it a complete destination for a fun outing with friends. Reddit

Community and Atmosphere

The Uncommons cultivates a welcoming and social atmosphere, making it a popular spot for friends, dates, and even solo visitors looking to join a game. The buzz of friendly competition and shared laughter fills the space, creating a lively yet comfortable environment. TikTokReddit

Many visitors highlight the attentive and caring owners and staff who contribute significantly to the positive vibe. Their passion for board games and customer service shines through, making patrons feel valued and eager to return. This community-focused approach is a key reason why The Uncommons is considered a true NYC gem. Reddit

While some reviews mention it might not be ideal for very young children due to the nature of some longer, more complex games, it's generally a great place for adults and older teens seeking a unique and engaging way to spend their time. The space is well-maintained, with clean tables and organized game sections, ensuring a pleasant experience for all. Reddit

Beyond Board Games: Other 'Uncommons' Locations

It's important to note that 'The Uncommons' can refer to different places. The NYC location is primarily known as a board game cafe. However, in Las Vegas, 'The Uncommons' is a mixed-use development featuring various businesses, including restaurants like Rare Society Steakhouse and All'Antico Vinaio, as well as event spaces and markets like Market in the Alley. Instagram+2

These Las Vegas locations offer a different experience, focusing on dining, shopping, and community events. For instance, Market in the Alley is a pet and kid-friendly local market held at The Uncommons in Las Vegas, showcasing local vendors and artisans. Instagram+1

There's also a webcomic titled 'The Uncommons' that has gained popularity, featuring well-drawn Black characters and available on platforms like Webtoon. Instagram+1 When searching or planning a visit, be sure to clarify which 'The Uncommons' you are interested in to ensure you have the right expectations. TikTok