Geeky restaurants, bars to take for a spin

COMMENTARY

Geek out on arcade games, anime, board games and more at Orlando-area restaurants and bars. Sure, pop-culture convention MegaCon, in town through Sunday, is a great excuse to visit the following spots — but don’t forget, they’re around all year long.

Is there anything better than taking a swig of craft beer or wine while puzzling through Klax? Don’t answer that. This art gallery/bar/ arcade features a rotating lineup of classic games. There’s no food in-house, but BART bartenders are stocked with menus for ordering take-out.

1205 N. Mills Ave. in Orlando; 407-796-2522; bartcade.com.

One glance at this pub — and its menu — will highlight the heavy Lord of the Rings influence. Pair a brew, cider, mead or cocktail with one of the board games provided — or bring your own. Video games are also available.

875 Woodbury Road, Suite 108, in Orlando; 407-674-7435; cloakand blaster.com.

You can find this “speakeasy” in the back of comicbook store A Comic Shop. Called “a sports bar for nerds,” The Geek Easy hosts trivia nights, karaoke events and more. Snack on grilled cheese while swigging craft beer.

114 S. Semoran Blvd., Suite 6, in Winter Park; 407-332-9636; mygeekeasy .com.

A monthly art display features art on a variety of topics, but more often than not, it’s on something just a little bit geeky, such as fantasy, Star Wars or The Justice League. Keep an eye out for art shows on its Facebook page.

480 S. Ronald Reagan Blvd. in Longwood; 407-262-0056; Hourglass Brewing.com.

An ’80s themed arcade bar, Joysticks has an assortment of classic and modern arcade and video games. They pair the fun with bright theming, almost to the point of feeling like a glowstick concert. Try one of the cocktails named after video games and pop-culture icons. There’s no food offered — but it’s not too hard to find some in the heart of downtown Orlando.

69 E. Pine St. in Orlando; 407- 613-5007; joy sticksorlando.com.

Play everything from classic arcade games to current gaming consoles. Player 1’s drink menu is heavy on craft beers, but there are meads, sakes and wines, too.

8562 Palm Parkway in Orlando; 407-504-7521; player1orlando.com.

This noodle shop celebrates all things anime — specifically “Dragon Ball Z” with the decor. Don’t miss the nimbus clouds overhead. Prepare to be restored to maximum health with Soupa Saiyan’s hefty noodle bowls. You can create your own bowl or choose from one of the signature dishes.

5689 Vineland Road in Orlando; 407-930-3396; Facebook.