The atmosphere in a successful bar or restaurant goes far beyond just serving delicious drinks and meals. Bar games for restaurants have a surprising power to transform your location from a place to simply grab a bite into a vibrant social hub. Incorporating games into bars and restaurants can not only increase customer dwell time, foster a sense of community, and encourage repeat visits, but also draw large groups. All of which can bring more revenue!
But with so many options available, choosing the right games for your unique establishment is key. This guide will explore a variety of options, from classic board games to cutting-edge technology, to help you create the perfect game selection for your bar or restaurant.
Classic Games
There’s a reason why the classics have stood the test of time. These familiar favorites offer a winning combination of nostalgia, strategy, and simple rules that can entertain for hours. Here are some classic board and card games that never fail to entertain:
- Monopoly: The real estate mogul’s game. Monopoly sparks friendly rivalries, strategic thinking, and the occasional “go directly to jail” moment. Plus, it accommodates various group sizes.
- Uno: A card game that’s easy to learn and addictive to play. Match colors, numbers, and wild cards to outwit your opponents.
- Clue: A murder mystery wrapped in a board game. Guests can channel their inner detectives, accusing Colonel Mustard in the conservatory with the candlestick. The suspense keeps them coming back for more.
And here are some more modern classic favorites:
- Card Against Humanity: Brace yourself for laughter, awkwardness, and a dash of irreverence. This party game is not for the faint of heart, but it guarantees a memorable time.
- Apples to Apples: A family-friendly game where players match nouns to adjectives. It’s all about creativity and finding unexpected connections.
Active Games
Active games take center stage when it comes to drawing large crowds. These challenges add a dynamic twist to your bar or restaurant experience, encouraging friendly competition and repeat plays. Many are classified as Class A Coin Operated Amusement Machines (COAMs), a term used in Georgia, because they require payment to play but offer no redemption prizes. Here are some of the top contenders.
- Pool tables offer a timeless appeal, accommodating friendly competition between individuals or team matches. Consider hosting tool tournaments to create a buzz and cultivate a loyal following among your regulars.
- Darts, another classic, is surprisingly easy to learn and comes in both traditional and electronic COAM versions. The low barrier to entry makes it a great social activity, while the competitive spirit can ignite during friendly rivalries. Think about forming darts leagues to keep your customers coming back for weekly matches and bragging rights.
- Air hockey, a Class A COAM, provides a fast-paced and exhilarating challenge for patrons of all ages. The fast moving action and friendly competition are sure to generate excitement and laughter, keeping patrons engaged and potentially leading to repeat visits.
- TouchTunes allows patrons to take control of the music, injecting a layer of personalization and group activity into your atmosphere. Although they aren’t games, they are a great addition to a bar or restaurant in the Class A category!
Outdoor Games
When the sun is shining and the breeze beckons, it’s time to take the fun outdoors. Here are some games that can turn your bar or restaurant patio into a playground that draws large groups and more revenue:
- Cornhole, the beanbag toss game, is a crowd-pleaser. Simple to learn and perfect for social gatherings, it adds a touch of summer to your outdoor area.
- Horseshoes, a classic outdoor game, offers a nostalgic charm that appeals to patrons of all ages. With its simple rules and a potential for friendly competition, horseshoes can create a lively and engaging atmosphere in any outdoor setting.
- Giant Jenga is the super-size version of a beloved childhood game. This larger-than-life take on the classic tower-building game provides entertainment for both players and spectators. You can even customize a set with your logo to boost brand recognition.
Skill Games
While classic games offer timeless entertainment, skill games add a whole new dimension of engaging fun to your bar or restaurant. These captivating devices not only entertain your patrons like the other games we’ve covered but also boost your bottom line. Here are some categories of coin-operated skill games that are sure to please:
- Video arcade games offer a classic entertainment option that can transport customers to a different world. They appeal to a broad audience and offer a thrilling and competitive atmosphere.
- Sports games, with their focus on skill and strategy, offer a competitive edge that attracts both casual and serious players. These games, ranging from basketball to soccer, will have your patrons testing their skills.
- Redemption games inject an element of playfulness and reward into your space. Players win by showcasing their skills and have the opportunity to win prizes. Games that allow players to redeem points for prizes are categorized as Class B Coin-Operated Amusement Machines (COAMs). They create a fun and interactive experience that keeps customers engaged and coming back for more.
Boost Your Bar or Restaurant with Engaging Entertainment
Incorporating games into your bar or restaurant can be a winning strategy. From classic board games to active options and engaging COAMs, you can create a fun and inviting atmosphere that keeps customers lingering longer, fostering a sense of community and driving repeat business.
Here at Inamax, we can help you explore the exciting world of COAMs and craft a game selection that perfectly complements your unique business. To learn more, call us at 770.449.0400 ext. 700 or fill out our contact form.