Dave & Buster's is an arcade and restaurant chain where you play games, eat, and drink

Dave & Buster's is a restaurant and entertainment venue with arcade games, pool tables, and other games mixed in. You walk in, order food and drinks at a bar or table, and play games either at the same table or at dedicated arcade machines around the venue. The games range from classic arcade cabinets (like Pac-Man) to newer ticket-redemption games where you win tickets that you can trade for prizes. It's not a pure arcade — food and alcohol are a major part of the business — but the games are a real draw, especially for groups and special occasions.

There are roughly 140 Dave & Buster's locations across the United States, Canada, and other countries. Each location is independently operated by a franchisee, so the exact game selection, food menu, and pricing can vary between locations. You can find the nearest one and see what games they have by visiting their website or calling ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • Dave & Buster's combines a full-service restaurant and bar with arcade games and entertainment, so you can eat, drink, and play in one place.
  • You pay for food and drinks separately from games — games use either coins, cards you load with money, or a digital account tied to your phone number or card.
  • Ticket-redemption games let you win tickets that trade for small prizes at a redemption counter, but the value of tickets versus what you spend is usually in the venue's favor.
  • Locations vary in their game selection and pricing, so it's worth calling ahead or checking their website if you're looking for a specific game or want to know current pricing.
  • Dave & Buster's caters to adult groups, corporate events, and birthday parties, and many locations have private event spaces you can reserve.

How you pay to play games

Dave & Buster's uses a card-based system for most games. When you arrive, you can load money onto a card at the front desk or at a kiosk — you hand over cash or a credit card, and the venue loads the amount onto a physical card or a digital account. You then use that card to play games by swiping or tapping it at each machine. Some older machines still take coins or bills directly, but the card system is standard.

The amount you load is entirely up to you — there's no minimum or maximum, though most people load between $20 and $100 depending on how long they plan to stay. Each game costs a set amount per play, which varies by game. A straightforward game might cost 50 cents per play, while a newer or more popular game might cost $2 or more. You can check the cost before you play — it's usually displayed on the machine.

If you have money left on your card when you leave, you can cash it out at the front desk. Some venues let you keep the card for your next visit, which is convenient if you go regularly.

Ticket-redemption games and how the prize system works

Many of the games at Dave & Buster's are ticket-redemption games — you play, win tickets based on your score or performance, and then trade those tickets for prizes at a redemption counter. The prizes range from small items like candy or keychains (worth 10 to 50 tickets) to larger items like headphones or gaming accessories (worth 500 to 2,000 tickets). A few high-end prizes like gaming consoles or electronics require 5,000 or more tickets.

The math on ticket redemption typically favors the venue. A game that costs $2 to play might award 20 to 50 tickets if you win, and a prize worth $5 in retail value might cost 500 tickets to redeem. This means you'd need to spend $20 to $50 to earn enough tickets for that $5 prize. It's entertainment spending, not a way to get value — treat the prizes as a bonus, not the main point.

Some locations run promotions where you earn bonus tickets on certain games or during certain hours. It's worth asking at the counter or checking their website or app to see if any deals are running when you plan to visit.

Food, drinks, and dining at Dave & Buster's

Dave & Buster's operates as a full restaurant and bar. The menu typically includes burgers, wings, appetizers, and entrees in the $12 to $25 range, plus a full bar with beer, wine, and cocktails. You can eat at a table, at the bar, or order food to go. The food is standard casual-dining fare — not fine dining, but adequate for a night out.

Many people come for the games and order light appetizers and drinks rather than full meals. You're not required to buy food to play games, though most locations have a minimum spend if you're using a private event space or making a reservation for a large group.

Pricing varies by location, so it's worth checking the menu online or calling ahead if you want to know what to expect. Some locations are in high-rent areas and charge more than others.

Private events and group reservations

Dave & Buster's caters to birthday parties, corporate events, and group outings. Most locations have private or semi-private event spaces that you can reserve. The venue typically offers packages that include a certain amount of game credits per person, food, and drinks, with pricing that varies based on group size and what you choose.

To book an event, contact the location directly by phone or through their website. They'll ask how many people you expect, what date and time you want, and what kind of experience you're looking for. Lead time varies — some locations can accommodate last-minute bookings, while others require a week or more notice, especially on weekends.

Event packages are usually cheaper per person than if everyone paid separately, so if you're planning a group outing, it's worth asking about their party options.

What to expect on a typical visit

When you arrive, you'll check in at the host stand or front desk. If you have a reservation, they'll seat you. If not, you may wait depending on how busy it is. Once seated or at the bar, you can order food and drinks from a server or bartender, and you can load money onto a game card at the front desk or at a kiosk near the entrance.

Games are scattered throughout the venue — some near tables, some in dedicated arcade areas. You can play while you eat, or take breaks from games to eat and drink. The atmosphere is typically loud and energetic, especially on weekends and evenings. If you're sensitive to noise or crowds, a weekday afternoon visit will be quieter.

Most visits last 1 to 3 hours depending on how many games you play and whether you're eating a full meal. There's no time limit on how long you can stay as long as you're spending money on games or food.

Membership and loyalty programs

Dave & Buster's offers a rewards program (the specifics vary by location and change over time). You can usually sign up at the front desk or through their website or app. Members earn points on food, drinks, and games, which can be redeemed for discounts or free game credits. Some locations offer birthday bonuses or special promotions to members.

Membership is free to join, and there's no obligation to sign up — you can visit and play without it. But if you go regularly, signing up takes a few minutes and can save you money over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be 21 to go to Dave & Buster's?

No. You can visit and play games at any age. However, if you want to drink alcohol, you must be 21 and have a valid ID. Some locations have restricted hours for minors (for example, no one under 18 after 10 p.m. on weekends), so check with your local venue if you're bringing children.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Most locations do not allow outside food or drinks. You're expected to buy from their menu. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, ask the staff — they can usually accommodate requests or point you to menu items that work for you.

What happens if I lose my game card?

If your card is tied to a digital account (usually linked to your phone number or email), you can recover the balance at the front desk by providing your information. If it's a physical card with no account, the balance is lost. Ask the staff when you load money whether your card is tied to an account.

Are the games rigged or harder than arcade games elsewhere?

Dave & Buster's games are standard arcade and ticket-redemption machines made by the same manufacturers as games in other venues. The difficulty is set by the venue, and some locations may adjust settings to be slightly harder or easier. The games are not "rigged" in the sense of being broken, but they are designed to favor the house — that's how arcades make money.

Can I cash out my remaining game card balance?

Yes. Go to the front desk and ask to cash out. They'll refund the remaining balance to the payment method you used (cash or card). Some venues may have a small minimum or may ask you to wait a few minutes while they process it.