Cakes and Ladders

As a massive nerd, I have to say, I’m so happy this place exists.
Cakes and Ladders is, as far as I know, Auckland’s only board game café. They have an impressive stock of board and card games – for adults and for families – the nicest, friendliest staff you could ask for, and a comfy interior setup for your hours of board gaming pleasure. The coffee is pretty decent as well, although none of my friends nor I have tried the food menu just yet.
Here’s how it works: you walk in, you pick a table, and the staff start your timer. Then you can either pick a game or have one recommended to you based on pretty much whatever criteria you want, and if it’s a new game to you, the (again, wonderfully friendly) staff explain the rules and setup to you. Then you play – for hours, if you want. At $ 2.50 an hour, it’s a steal. (Also, they’re currently awaiting their liquor license, so although there’s no alcohol there yet, just you wait. Craft beers are on their way!)
They close at 10pm, I believe, at least on the weekends, but once the booze arrives, I’m hoping they stay open a wee bit later. I’m definitely going back, often.