I got a cup of drip coffee that was delicious to the last drop. (Ot h er coffeehouses fill the bottom of my cup with grounds, they didnt)didn't. My co.panions had hot chocolate th topped with whipped cream. We all chose the French Toast Sticks, which cNe stacked in a hashtag pattern 3 layers high and ample amounts of whipped cream and Maple syrup for dipping. After the meal we selected a board game to play The staff is skilled and friendly, the game selection has something for everyone. read more

It's been six years since we were here last, and nearly everything I previously wrote is still correct. At times it can be busy, but they do accept reservations. They seem to have expanded into the room next door and there was a book club meeting for Pride and Prejudice. It was a bit loud at times but we managed to get through. They helpfully tag games on the binding based on skill level, player count, and estimated time. It was $20 for the two of us and we were only there an hour, so it wasn't cheap. That being said, if you don't have a game library OR you just want to try new games before buying this might be a fun option. read more

Seems like a great date spot and place to hangout in downtown Troy but the coffee could've been better Coffee: Iced caramel latte 2/5: nothing remarkable, a bit on the watery side and lacking some flavor Ambiance: Looks nice inside and had plenty of board games (which they charge for use)- seems like a decent spot read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Iced latte - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

We always have a great time! Love the food and lychee teas. Great game selection and staff is always helpful.

I had the BEST time at their Pixel to Plate "Mario Kart World" Themed Dinner. I thought at best it was going to be very basic food with cardboard decorations but the chef truly went above and beyond. You can tell he is passionate about what he does. Everything looked excatly from Mario Kart World (there was even a guy on the switch showing us what the food looked like in the actually Switch game). Everything had a fun name. Although the drinks were extra, they were worth it. The attention to detail was incredible along with the actual taste of everything. My only grip would be it started later than scheduled so the dinner ran late. Be prepared to wait a while before even the first course begins (and the courses in between). Also when these tickets go on sale, they sell out INCREDIBLY quickly. You can't hesitate. read more

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As far as board game cafes go, their selection is legendary. We'll have to plan out a full day trip to Troy next time and add this to the itinerary read more

We spend the day here when we visit our son at RPI. They have an assortment of categorized games. There's a small per person fee to sit and play. You can come and go throughout the day. They added a second room for more gaming space, but you can always make a table reservation. The food is good. The atmosphere is great. read more

Good service & yum matcha house made lavender syrup iced drink! Latte is okay prefer stronger. Had their pie a while ago not bad. Fun place to hang & play some games! Yay to student 10% off! read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - the interior of a bookstore - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

I'm contemplating in giving 4 or 5 stars. If I can give 4.5, I would. Overall, this place's ambience is a 10/10. I really love it. But, in terms of drinks, I think their thai bubble tea is too sweet but, perhaps.. it's also my fault for not asking them to make it less sweet. Too sweet to the point that I have to add more water to it. Then, since I need to cleanse the sweetness in my mouth, I ordered cold brew. It's pretty good. I like that their coffee is strong. So, I can tell that their coffee is definitely something you have to buy. Don't expect too much on the bubble tea. But if you want to go play board games or study or work kn something. Definitely come to this place. read more

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We spent a delightful afternoon here. After visiting a board game cafe in another city we looked for one while in Albany and were not at all disappointed! There were plenty of games, though we do think there could be a few more to round out the selection, particularly for 2 person strategy games. We made a reservation and are glad we did because all the tables were taken. We enjoyed the hot beverage selection and found the staff friendly. Great place to spend several hours! read more

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Loved this place! Great example of a board game cafe. Their selection is huge and varied. Their staff are kind. Their food is delicious, and so are their cocktails! They also have the best boba I've had in the Troy area. The fam had a wonderful time playing Horrified. We played it twice and the place never felt too crowded and we didn't feel rushed at all. They have a great system for reservations and it was a ton of fun! Highly recommend to anyone in the Capital District (or just passing through). The only complaint I have is that I wish it was around earlier so I could've spent many long days here while at RPI read more

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Food was amazing .... Great concept ... we had a great morning .. we will be back . My bagel was delicious and beautifully presented read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Grimlock's Favorite and jenga sticks - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

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I haven't had any of the food here yet but tons of drinks, their boba and tea selection is incredible! Boba and jelly are all homemade and vegan and exceptional. Always stop by for a drink when in Troy. read more

They food is so unexpectedly delicious and perfectly tuned to the game atmosphere it all looked so good a definitely over ordered. Had the phoenix chicken sandwich and a pepperoni pizza bagel. I'm drooling just thinking of both. Decent assortment of adult beverages, mostly a bit off the normal radar but if you know you like sweet and fruity give something new a whirl. Really fun games as well. Many I be er heard of but thoroughly enjoyed. After some of the adult beverages you may be way overly excited to find a Kenny g board game. Not kidding. read more

So good!! Packaged so cutely and beautifully! They tasted so fresh and delicious :) I would definitely go back! read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Fried French Toast Sticks - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

I was excited to come here because we seen the board games but ended up finding out we had to pay to play games which didn't make sense to me. I visited places where you get to play for free and enjoy your food (that your already paying for) but that isn't why my stars are low. The sandwiches weren't as good as we thought that would be. My fiancés sandwich had crazy amount of mustard seeds and my buffalo chicken tasted old, I would've enjoyed having a pickle and some chips along with it but The Mac and cheese was actually great. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - I like waluigi ! - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

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Food isn't great and is over priced. Ordered plain Mac and Cheese, a ham cheese sandwich (one piece of ham), and a salad, and it was $46 with a tip. The rate to play games on the weekend is ridiculous, $25 for two adults and a nine years old child. I can understand that if you wanted to sit and play for multiple hours but that's way to much for a casual game over lunch. read more

My girlfriend and I absolutely love coming to this place! It's a perfect date night/day/whenever. We come and play board games for hours while having margs. What a vibe this place allows us to have! I will say I'm always so focused on kickin my gfs butt in games that I forgot to get adventurous with the food and baked goods. Love the drinks. The food I've had so far has been pretty decent but can't wait to try more. read more

Of all the places I've been to in Troy, Bard & Baker is my absolute favorite place to go. I've tried some of their non alcoholic drinks like the lavender lemonade and iced matcha latte, but for me I really go for their freshly baked cookies. One time they had a Thai iced tea cookie that was literally the best I've ever had in my life. Their lunch foods are also super satisfying especially their poutine and Mac n cheese, and the staff/servers are always super friendly and positive individuals. A board game pass is only 5$ and you can choose from so many different games. Last time I was there we played the game of Life: pirates of the Caribbean version! I definitely recommend calling ahead to make a reservation for a group as tables fill up fast here! P.S. I'm pretty sure they have discounts for students! read more

$30 for game play on top of food seems steep to me--especially since our Mac & Cheese was a bowl of mushy elbows topped with Cheez-It crumbs. It's a cheery, pleasant place--if we went back we'd only get drinks read more

I've been waiting to bring my husband here for a date night/afternoon. He's an avid board game enthusiast and despite his reservations I thought it would be a fun opportunity to get out of the house and do something together around a theme we could both enjoy. While he parked the car I went in and paid our cover charge to use their game library and then grabbed a table. Depending on the time of day finding a table can be challenging and since there is no set limit on game play who knows when one will become available. I was really glad we didn't have to wait. I had heard good things about the menu but we came from a late breakfast elsewhere so we only ordered drinks and a snack. The bubble tea was good but the portion if you order in house is small for the price. They can ice any tea if you have time to wait but I suggest getting the order to go and opting for the larger size. From what I could tell it was one price but only the to go option offered a larger cup. The boba I'm guessing was sweetened with brown sugar or something other than simple white sugar because they had a slight flavor which I haven't experienced other places when ordering boba. The gummy worms we ordered came in a large bowl for $4 and were probably enough for 4 people. They were soft and looked like they were portioned in plastic tubs behind the counter. Their library is extensive and a bit daunting if you don't know what you're doing but the staff will help if you ask. It also gets quite loud which can make it difficult to hear your fellow gamers. A large group sat behind us about half way through and it was really difficult to hear each other across the table. Luckily we were playing a lighter game at that point and leaving soon. I had a fun time and if I wanted to try new games before purchasing them for my library I would considering this one way to try them out. If you check their website they have different events through out the week and month. read more

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Perfect date spot! Came with my boyfriend to get afternoon coffees and play some games. They have everything you've heard of and everything you haven't. My matcha latte was only OK but I came for the games not the drink! I saw some girls studying here too. Very chill atmosphere. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - a man standing in front of a bookshelf - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

Came here after dinner and I love this place. Troy, NY just keeps getting nicer and nicer. Will definitely be coming back. Pros: - $5 cover charge per person to play games in the space for an unlimited amount of time - Amazing assortment of games that are categorized by genre - Well priced drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and food - Kitchen for hot food closes at 10pm - Closes at midnight on Saturdays! - Everyone there was mindful and respectful of the space and games Cons: - Street parking - Gross bathroom read more

We stopped in one evening because I had been interested in checking the place out for a while. I'll start with the positives - the space is open and bright with large windows and really comfortable, stylish seating. They had a vast and impressive selection of board games ranging from Sorry! to Risk to Settlers of Catan (and expansions). They have a small kitchen with an open counter for you to order food from along with a cooler with bottled drinks, including a decent amount of beer options. We didn't eat since we were just in for a drink before going to dinner elsewhere, but the food all looked good. We were disappointed that the coffee we ordered was lukewarm and not very good. We saw that they offered a lot of breakfast sandwiches, so we were surprised that the coffee wasn't of a higher standard. Also, I grabbed a beer from the cooler and after paying for it, I asked for a glass to pour it in at my table. That's when the staff told me they are only doing to-go sales on alcohol at the moment. There really should be a sign on the cooler stating that current policy. I ended up sitting at the table with an unopened can of beer, and then had to run back to my car to put the beer I'd just purchased due to lack of signage or information before I'd paid so I wouldn't have to carry it around with me the rest of the evening, which was an inconvenience. Overall, it seems like a good concept, but I'm not sure we'll go back. read more

I would have given this place four stars if not for two major things: 1) The bathroom is atrocious 2) The food is offensive It's obviously not meant to be a restaurant, which is fine, but don't offer food if it's that bad. I've read through reviews, and some people love the food, which either means (to me) that they a) can't cook or b) we came on a really bad night (which could be the case because there wasn't an empty chair in the house). Credit to them their menu is well designed and makes their food sound way better than it is. The fancy mac was sooooo bad. There were cubes of ICE COLD mozzarella string cheese in it that actually made the rest of it cold. So you might get a lukewarm bite along with your cold, salty mac & cheese... regrets. Someone else in our group also got the pizza bagel, which was served in its own puddle of grease. I'm still gagging as I think about it. Don't eat there. Don't drink there either. Their bubble tea was gross. More water than powder, and I don't care for powdered bubble tea either, so I don't know why I expected better. Other than that, the games were well organized, it was a fun atmosphere with friends, and all the games we tried had all the pieces in it, so that was neat. The tables are so close together that a friend of mine had his abdomen smashed against the table when someone backed out of their seat behind him. Next time, we'll eat somewhere else first and not go on a Friday/Saturday night. read more

One of my favorite places in Troy and perhaps the most well thought out concept. They've got a great collection of games, well worth the cover price ($5 on weekdays, $10 on weekends -- both 50% if you are a student). Their food is clearly meant to mimic that experience of being over at a friends house when you were younger -- grilled cheeses, pizza bagels, mac and cheese. It's all incredibly satisfying. The grilled cheese, on their fresh homemade bread, is finished with a light sprinkle of salt; it's a very nice (needed) touch and a delicious sandwich. read more

$5 for all you can game? Why doesn't New Jersey have this? My last game shop experience was pay by the hour, so such a reasonable one-price experience makes this an easy "yes, please!" If you have hours to kill in Troy and wish to please your inner nerd, grab your other nerdy friends and those who are closet nerds, and come geek out with a variety of games. There are even less nerdy games here like Sorry, so if you're more into the "never left the 80s behind" genre, you will find satisfaction. If you stay for hours, they have light bites and drinks to keep you going, or alcohol to transition you into a rewarding night about town. The scone was good enough to keep me inside for more games. We played for a few hours, but hey, it doesn't matter, because one price! Fish in your couch, shake down your kid, and bring your loose change on over for a great day out. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - The holy wall of games - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

Friendly staff and very cool concept of having free board games and pair it with baked items, breakfast foods, and bubble tea/teas/ coffee. It's a fun time and they are adhering with covid 19 guidelines! Mainly indoors from what I saw and their hours may have extended to closing at 11pm at least Friday, today, was that way. read more

I'd been avoiding visiting this little spot because of a stressful time I'd had at the Troy location (not their fault -- there were just so many happy gamers in there that it was rowdier than I wanted for my cafe experience!), so was really happy to have finally wandered inside to try to get some work done and discovered what a nice place it is during the work week (the very pleasant barista said that it can sometimes get busy on the weekends). It's a very comfortable, bright, pleasant space inside, the baked goods are tasty, and the employees seem happy to be there. Four stars instead of five because the drinks themselves seem to default to the very sweet (I ordered a regular latte and it came already sweetened, which was a new experience for me), which combined with a very limited non-sweet food selection can make for a very sugary experience. Despite the sugar rush, I really like it here, and it's now definitely part of my work-cafe rotation. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Baked goods - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

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First time here & it was super fun & yummy! I will definitely be back! Super yummy sandwiches & a huge selection of games! Many I've never heard of. Highly recommend the buffalo chicken sandwich. Only reason for not giving 5 stars is because the bathroom needs a serious dusting & dessert (sticky toffee pudding) looked great & was described beautifully, but because they warmed it, was dry & lackluster. Overall great time & great concept! read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Board games, yummy food & drinks! Yay!! - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

Bard and Baker fills a hole in the Troy landscape: it's something to do that doesn't involve alcohol. For that reason alone, I was excited to hear that a board game cafe was coming to the former Troy Record building. Yesterday, I finally got a chance to check it out with friends. For a $5/person cover charge, you can play as many games as you want for as long as you want. Drinks (including alcohol) and food are available and a dozen or so tables let people hang out and play one of the 500+ games on the shelves. It was quite busy in there and groups walked out without getting a table and playing games, but hopefully the crowds will die down as the novelty wears off. The missing star is for food quality and prices. The snack food and desserts ae okay, but friends had the more meal-type items, including the mac and cheese, and reported that they were just "okay". Drinks seemed a little pricey, given that I could get an identical can of beer at the restaurant across the street for $1-2 (or more) less. But this won't stop me from returning. The ability to play seemingly every board game under the sun is enough to draw me in and keep me coming back. read more

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Food: delicious and human-sized. You won't find huge bowls of food here, but everything is the perfect amount to sustain you for a couple hours or share a few dishes with friends. I usually get 2-3 dishes to split between two people. The poutine is delicious! I was missing the curds, but the potatoes were crispy and the gravy was perfectly seasoned. The macaroni and cheese is a fun surprise with a cheeze-it cracker crust that adds a surprising dimension. I've also tried the buffalo Mac, which is good with a definite kick. The pizzas are cute and filling. They are what they are though--a basic bagel pizza (we only had the cheese since my co-pilot was a 2-year-old... the pepperoni looked crispier which I really wanted to sample from what I saw at another table). The only "miss" for me was the buffalo chicken sandwich. The bread was perfect, but how the chicken is shredded made it difficult to eat. I think this would work better as a buffalo chicken melt? I haven't tried everything and it's still super new so I'll post updates as I get through more of the menu. Drinks: so many options! The coffee is strong and really good. There's a cooler filled with other options ranging from alcohol to milk for kids. After a date one night I had a glass of wine that was outstanding as well. And, during a work lunch I had a chance to try the bubble tea which was was refreshing and fun with a good taste. Games: what do you like? They probably have it! You don't have to play a game (I've only played once out of three trips so far), but it was fun and well worth the cost of $5 per person for a relaxing date night in which I didn't have to shout to hear my husband. I like the color coded system, which made it easy to find games we could tackle as a couple in less than an hour. Atmosphere: comfortable, inclusive, bright, lively, warm, inviting, fun, and exciting. I love seeing how many people are sitting around enjoying themselves with big smiles on their faces or deep in thought playing someone (or even themselves!) in a challenging game. If you love the idea of hanging at a big table and laughing with friends over something other than shots while eating popcorn and pork belly, then this is your place! If you just need an afternoon or evening to escape and hole up somewhere writing or reading with a glass of wine and comfort food or a pastry, this is the place. If you need somewhere kid-friendly for a rewarding and fun hour or two away from home to maintain your sanity, this is the place. Lastly, if you want to destroy your significant other in a game of checkers while drinking a sophisticated red wine and eating a sinful cheesecake, this is the place! Bathrooms: two easily available, accessible, and clean. Accessibility: so easy! There's a ramp and big tables with comfortable seats for all body types. After suffering from a birth injury, I realized just how rare it is to find a comfortable place to sit down for a meal, drink, or game. This is the most comfortable place to sit in Troy. Sustainability: high! They go out of their way to provide compostable, biodegradable, and recyclable materials. Love how much thought has been put into make a socially responsible new business in Troy. Team: last but not least--the team behind Bard and Baker truly cares and is obviously enjoying the location, their customers, their colleagues, and themselves. You see it in their service and the details. They're incredibly informed on all things game-related and genuinely kind people who welcome all while making sure you're taken of and enjoying yourself. I'm a fan and will be back soon to try breakfast! Then back again for an afternoon with my kids. Then back again for a low-key date night. Then back again for... you get it. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Macaroni and cheese (plain), cheese pizza on a bagel, and the berry scone. Tried to take a quick picture between happy toddler bites! - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

There was a delay in B&B opening- it seems, on first impression, to have paid off. it is hard to judge based on this morning's grand opening, of course, but the sense is of a space that arrives with significant goodwill in hand: lots of local community folks, lots of gamers - several nontrivial games already underway - and lots of smiles. There are several standout elements immediately apparent. First: Brewtus coffee! an excellent, local choice, delightful to see and well-made. The menu is clearly a whole-day affair and looks appetizing; I hope to sample it soon. Maybe second only to the coffee is the space itself: light and airy, tables suited to gaming, very welcoming. Happy meeples - err, staff. ok, i admit, this review was partly to snag that FTR before Daniel did . but seriously, more to come, looking forward to future visits soon, and really happy they're here. read more

Trivia night was fun. Reservation is highly recommended. Free beer samples were served and service was great! read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Cowboy Hat Sandwich - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

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Incredible little gem in Troy! I love this board game cafe! Their food is amazing! They have a huge selection of games and you can play all day for a low price for a table. They also do themed dinner events (Pixel to Plate) where the chef makes a four course meal with each course being based on food from a video game. I went to the one with Stardew Valley foods and it was an incredibly fun time with each meal delicious and faithful to the game. I love this place! They even offered delivered of board games and food during the pandemic lock downs. Their signature bakes, teas, and cocktails are great! They organize the games by number of players and genre so it's really easy to find games and pick out new games to try that will fit your group's size! read more

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What a great way to spend an afternoon! Am in town for a wedding and wasn't sure how we were going to kill the time. Popped by for some boba tea and ended up staying for hours! This place made me feel like a kid again. We played scrabble, finish the google (sp), and Jumanji. Also had delicious pineapple boba tea. Highly recommend for a great time with the fam, friend, or date! read more

This place deserves all the stars. They are friendly and service is excellent. They make the concept of playing games at a café really shine. We will be back next time we're in the area; we're talking about taking a trip just to go here. It's that good. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - My husband choosing a board game for us to play. - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

This is for the albany location. Been trying to get here since this locale opened. Came in today not to play games but to work btn a few appointments. The service is so so so friendly and accommodating. I was out of sorts and in low spirits but the barista assured me that's why she and the caffeine were here! Appreciate the kindness and the free WiFi. I will be back for games next time. I love that they have stay cups, i hate disposable. The americano, the beverage by which all coffee should be measured, was exceptional. read more

I failed to convey how good the cinnamon cookies are in my initial story. If you have a cookie today? You live nearby? A must. Support this phenomenal local business. read more

Bard & Baker Board Game Cafe - Cooooooooookeeeeeeeeeez!!!!!!!! - Cafes Near Me - Troy, New York

Amazing bubble tea (not made with powder) and hot chocolate. had a great time with the kids with lots of games we don't find in stores. read more