Looking for a bonding sesh over board games with some of your best mates? With attentive staff, a great selection of games plus a solid menu of food items, here are some of the best ones in town to check out.
 

Battle Bunker

The community here is one of the best in Singapore, and that really counts with board games and tabletop gaming where half the fun is all about the people you play with. They provide many quality-of-life conveniences as well, such as lockers to store your games (so you don't need to lug them around), a well-lit painting room to get your miniatures properly done, as well as bottled water and drinks you can purchase. The fact that they even make their own games (that you can back on Kickstarter) shows how passionate the folks here are. They got two outlets—one at Bugis+ and one at West Coast Plaza—so pick one that's nearer to you and your homies and head on over.
 

Experience Point
 

Games@PI

Located smack in the center of Singapore, this underrated, unexplored games haven proves the point that Ochard Road is more than just upscale malls and boutiques. At Games@PI, it’s all fluorescent office lighting and racks upon racks of games for sale or rent. Together with the staff, you can browse and learn more about the scene. The retail area is out front, while the back area is dedicated to casual plays and tournaments alike. Pick a few to try, and if you fancy, purchase the games here too. Regular patrons appreciate the fact that Games@PI is very up to date with their offerings.
 

King and the Pawn
 

On the second floor of a shophouse along Purvis Street is homey 55-seater King and the Pawn. With a solid menu of hearty grub, artisanal cocktails and locally brewed craft beers—and best of all, no imposition of a time limit, this is one of our favorite hangouts. All the cafe asks for is a "cover charge" of $8 per person (Tue-Thu) and $13 (Fri-Sun) for whoever's playing. Easy crowd favorites include Riff Raff , a game that tests your dexterity by having you balance tiny game pieces atop a precariously swivelling ship; and Cards Against Muggles—a clear Harry Potter twist on the notorious Cards Against Humanity (also available)—that's bound to have Harry Potter fans and non-fans alike in stitches. Try the Tomato and Roasted Grape Bruschetta that comes with a generous tub of feta cheese; as well as the aromatic Truffled Honey Croque Madame.
 

Mind Cafe

Play Nation
 

A cash-only, fun-loving cozy space, Play Nation, with a solid variety of board and console games, closes late at 11pm. It has expanded to four branches, two in the Orchard area and one in Tampines—east siders take note; and most recently, the newest one in the Philippines. Each store is a different concept, but all equally welcoming, with jaunty beanbags, a smorgasbord of insta-worthy cafe grub such as pancakes, eggs benedict and open bagels; and beverages, as gaming accompaniments.
 

Settlers’ Cafe

Settlers’ Cafe’s veritable list of 600 board game titles is its biggest draw. Being in operation for over 15 years, this much-raved about halal-certified space has its loyal fans. Ambience is made cosy with low lighting, low-slung furniture and the nostalgic oak racks of well-worn games. A strong contender with the younger King and the Pawn, Settlers’ Cafe will serve you a heaping plate of fries along with other snacks that come in sharing portions. Nurse a cocktail as you contemplate your next move, or order from the thoughtfully curated menu. Try the Seafood Laksa Pasta, the Pistachio Rose Cake or the Matcha Lava Cake. Here, you can have your cake and eat it too.
 

Sunny Pair O Dice
 

If you’re one who enjoys role playing games, head to Sunny Pair O Dice, which hosts game nights regularly, to gather avid local gamers in a solid match or two. Check out their calendar of events here; to enter, purchase a ticket for your preferred session. Sunny also reviews games from time to time, in addition to selling miniatures, accessories and more. 

Team Board Game 
 

With over 1000 unique games from the U.S., Team Board Game allows you to try your hand at various different games. And when you find something you like, purchase them right off the shelves. A seat at their table is priced very affordably ($3/person/hr), which makes TBG a good hangout spot for those looking to kill time with a good couple of rounds. Shop their site if you’re so inclined too.