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Awesome: 'Gaming Bars/Pubs in Seattle?' by LexiconGrrl
LexiconGrrl
Registered User regular
Registered User regular
Nullzone likes this Post written by LexiconGrrl
We've tried most of the pubs/restaurants in our neighborhood and there's a couple that let us boothsquat because we're regulars, but haven't found that 'perfect' spot. That said, the close runners up have been Noble Fir in Ballard, Bick's on Greenwood (when it's not packed), and Pillager's Pub. We're planning on giving Kate's a try, thanks for the tip!about a year ago
"This is pretty awesome advice for gamers just about anywhere!"
Keep in mind that restaurants are in business to be a business. The disparaging looks (we've gotten them too) are mostly because the restaurant is losing money on the game table. So, here are a couple of notes on etiquette that we've learned for gaming at a non-gaming establishment. All are different applications of Wheaton's Law.
1. Order. The servers and staff are there to make a living. If you sit for 4 hours and only order soda, make sure you tip as if you'd been ordering. A good rule of thumb for how much that is is 1 full meal & drink each hour - as if the table had been turning over. If there's someone in your party who can't afford to order a lot, someone else should tip for them.
2. Don't game during peak restaurant hours. See #1, above. If you see the restaurant is getting really full, pack up the games and head out so the server can turn the table.
3. Tell the server or hostess when you arrive that you'll be there for a while and ask if that's going to be a problem. It's respectful and they'll appreciate having the head's up. Typically, you'll get seated at a back table somewhere and left in peace. For extra points, tell your server immediately that your party will be tipping well even if you don't order a lot. +10 Bonus to service.
4. Don't be a loud a**hole. Especially in nicer restaurants.
5. Be thoughtful about the games you bring. Arkham Horror + All Expansions is probably not a great game to bring to a restaurant. Bring games that fit on the tables and still leave room for plates and glasses. Remember too, that cold drinks sweat, food dribbles, and the game cards/boards/pieces can get damaged from moisture/syrup/spills. We've actually got a set of games specifically for playing in restaurants.
So I've been giving the whole question of what makes a good gaming bar/pub/restaurant, and have come up with the following shortlist of criteria.
1. Lighting. It sucks when you can't tell what colors are on the board.
2. Noise. Low ambient noise so that you can hear the game being played.
3. Big tables. You need room for the board AND all that beer!
4. Noshie finger foods. Ever tried to eat spaghetti and play a game on a small table simultaneously?
5. Prices. I'm sure Canlis would be happy to seat well-tipping gamers all evening but it's nice to get out of there for less than your entire paycheck.
I'm really curious about other opinions about this. Do you go out and game at restaurants very much? Would you if there were more gamer friendly restaurants out there?
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Check out www.feastygeeks.blogspot.com for your geek, game and meme recipe needs.