Level Up Your Nightlife at Barcadia: Cape Town’s Retro Arcade Bar & Gaming Haven

Step right up, folks, and behold the marvel that is Barcadia! It’s not just a bar; it’s a nostalgic time machine whisking you back to the glory days of pixelated heroes and joystick battles. Nestled snugly at 62 Hout Street, this retro-inspired joint is Cape Town’s premiere hotspot for game-loving night owls.

Once you cross the threshold, prepare for a kaleidoscope of vintage vibes—checkered floors and custom neon signs that’ll make Mario and Sonic nod in approval. But hold your controllers, there’s more! Barcadia isn’t just about the looks; it’s packing serious gaming artillery. Picture retro consoles, a PlayStation 5 behind the bar for modern thrills, and a treasure trove of classic arcade machines that have aged like fine wine over the last 30 years.

Don’t blink or you’ll miss the lineup—Rave Racer, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, Terminator 2, Tekken 3, and the cherry on top: the iconic Pac-Man! They keep the games fresh, rotating them like a pro DJ, but fear not, the legendary Stern KISS Pinball machine is here to stay. And while they’re not whipping up meals yet, grab some freshly popped corn to fuel your gaming escapades.

Thirsty? The drinks menu’s got you covered, whether you’re into colossal 1-liter beer jugs or craving a draught straight from the tap. Non-alcoholic? Fear not, refreshing cooldrinks are lined up for a mere R10—take your pick from lemonade, coke, diet coke, or tonic. Just remember, this gaming paradise is strictly for the 21-and-over crowd.

Catch the action from Tuesday to Saturday, 6 pm to 2 am. Come for the games, stay for the fun, and leave with a pocketful of memories!