Joystick Gamebar

"The Edgewood Avenue game bar is planning to open on Thanksgiving evening for drinks, karaoke, and gameplay." - Eater Staff

"Remember when you went to the mall and spent all your money playing arcade games while your mom shopped? You can bring that feeling full circle at Joystick, where you can spend all your money playing arcade games while you drink. The divey bar in Edgewood has cheap beer, well drinks, and a ton of old school arcade games that will make you feel nostalgic for simpler days. If you’re looking for a group game, there’s another room with Jenga, foosball, and board games, along with big coffee tables and couches." - juli horsford

"Gamers crowd around a Galaga screen watching intently to see who can beat the high score. Then, with a collective groan, they scatter back to their bar corners when the Fighter is destroyed by a stray bullet. That’s a normal night at Joystick, equal parts arcade and bar. And from our viewpoint, draft beer or alcoholic slushies make classic games like Frogger, Ms. Pacman, and Mortal Kombat (and the nostalgia of quarters rattling in your pocket) more fun. There’s a different nightly pop-up restaurant to fuel avid players. And theme nights, including karaoke and comedy sessions, bring unity to the Edgewood nerdom. The best part? As an adult, you get to decide when it’s time for your last game. Sorry, mom. photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman" - Juli Horsford

"Joystick Gamebar has been a hub for geeky gameplay since opening more than a decade ago. Owners Johnny Martinez and Brandon Ley see the bar as an homage to the arcades of their youth — swapping out soda and fountain drinks for cocktails and beer. Joystick hosts a variety of social events throughout the week, including regular Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) meetups to cater to Millennial and Gen Z patrons." - Olivia Harrison

"Joystick Gamebar is a “nerdy dive bar.” This is where to head for seriously old school arcade games like Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Space Invaders, and even Dolly Parton pinball paired with solid cocktails and local beer. The kitchen doubles as a restaurant incubator, hosting up-and-coming chefs and pop-ups. Joystick often hosts cosplay parties and gaming tournaments, too." - Beth McKibben