Reviews - Zulu's Board Game Cafe

Pub Kitchen, Burgers, Coffee

Reviews summary

Hidden behind a tavern door in Seattle, this gaming café doubles as one of the region’s best board‑game destinations: a spacious, inviting room stocked with an extensive game library, table reservations, and an enthusiastic staff. The kitchen shines — standout fried chicken sandwich, inventive poutines and broad vegetarian offerings — though some patrons note high prices, small portions and recent menu cuts and sauce removals. Ideal for gamers, groups and brunch crowds who value atmosphere and service.

Overall Total Score
4.8 out of 5
Outstanding | 4637 reviews

Was Anonym at Zulu's Board Game Cafe a mag?

I recently stumbled upon this restaurant while I was out shopping for Pokémon cards, and I couldn't resist giving it a try. We ended up ordering two different kinds of poutine and some amazing maulburgers. The food was absolutely fantastic, but what really made the experience special was the outstanding customer service. The staff were exceptionally warm and friendly, making us feel right at home. I can't wait to com... View all feedback.

What Random Hero dislikes about Zulu's Board Game Cafe:

Charging people more money when they are under dietary restriction is absolutely vile. I’m ordering a burger. It shouldn’t cost more to sub a patty as you get a patty with a burger? Seems counter intuitive. And incredibly disrespectful. Food: 1 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 View all feedback.

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Reviews from various users

Google

Last update : 22.02.2025

5.0 ★ from 37 reviews
kaylani-andrews
22.02.2025

Wow! I was absolutely not expecting to love this place but I did. The ambiance on a Friday night was so much fun, as well as the assortment of games we got to try out. I will say, the non alcoholic beer was not my favorite, but for the 2.50 price tag I’m sure those who like it will enjoy. Wasn’t able to try the food, although pictures looked very tasty Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

tearle-whitson
22.02.2025

One of the Crown Jewels of Bothell! Zulu's is an awesome game store, and general Nerdvana hang out. Food, atmosphere and people are all 5 stars! Update Great Holiday Shopping location!! Service: Dine in Meal type: Breakfast Price per person: $10–20

joseph-falzarano
22.02.2025

I live on the East coast, but I purchase games from their online store. Fortunately, I had the pleasure of meeting the owner in person at Pax Unplugged 2024 they had a big booth. This guy loves games and is passionate about bringing as many people into the hobby as possible! I would be at this store all the time if I lived in the area. PS. Thanks for helping me get my copy of Thunder Road Vendetta: Maximum Chrome edition AND introducing me to that Lying Pirates game!

paul-secord-4
22.02.2025

Friendly and helpful staff Service: 5

austin-notley-2
22.02.2025

While I personally found it too crowded and cramped, it was great to see this place so packed on a weeknight! Great drinks, especially the ciders, and good food and atmosphere as well. A very warm, inviting, and *just* the right amount of dim lighting make for a wonderful evening of boardgames and brews. Service: Dine in Meal type: Dinner

Restaurantji

Last update : 22.09.2024

4.7 ★ from 404 reviews
lindsay-mosteller
22.09.2024

Incredible staff, enjoyable games, and delicious food! A really fantastic spot!

jolie-powell
22.09.2024

I really appreciate the spaciousness of this place, along with the option to reserve tables for gaming sessions and the variety of games available to play or purchase on-site! The staff is consistently friendly and helpful, and I've never had a negative experience here. However, I find myself thinking about Zulu’s fried chicken sandwich every single day—it truly amazes me. I've never had a chicken sandwich that is so perfectly crunchy and delicious. As someone who loves crunchy foods, that sandwich is at the top of my list because, despite its crispy exterior, the chicken inside isn’t dry at all. It's surprising that a nerd shop can excel so wonderfully in offering such an incredible chicken sandwich, but I’m so grateful they do. I will definitely be returning soon!

jon-bader-1
22.09.2024

I absolutely love Zulus! Whether I'm gathering friends to choose a new game from their extensive selection or bringing in a favorite, it’s always a fantastic time. They have separate individual game rooms and tables available downstairs, which are perfect for D&D campaigns. The food is great as well. It’s such an awesome venue to have in Bothell!

vlad-cherepennikov
22.09.2024

Best place to buy pokemon and magic cards.

jennifer-gears
22.09.2024

Busy but easy to get a table on a Friday afternoon. The space was a little tight to move around in, but well kept. Food was creative and delicious. Board game selection for use was somewhat limited, but probably because so many brought their own

Int Restaurants

Last update : 18.09.2023

4.9 ★ from 1717 reviews

The subpar meat quality was masked by the toppings and buns of the other burgers, but once we focused on the patties and cheese, it was evident that they too were quite lackluster. For burgers priced between $12 and $20, I expect them to be exceptional, not just average. On a brighter note, the appetizers and sides were quite good and reasonably priced. In conclusion, while the main courses, particularly the burgers, are overpriced and lacking in both quality and portion, I would recommend trying the appetizers and sides instead. The drinks, especially those from the bar, are also pricey. If you choose to visit Zulu Games, go for the atmosphere and the games, but eat beforehand and consider sticking to water to save some money.

I recently stumbled upon this restaurant while I was out shopping for Pokémon cards, and I couldn't resist giving it a try. We ended up ordering two different kinds of poutine and some amazing maulburgers. The food was absolutely fantastic, but what really made the experience special was the outstanding customer service. The staff were exceptionally warm and friendly, making us feel right at home. I can't wait to come back for more Pokémon cards!

This cozy and inviting board game café and tavern features a charming medieval, fantasy-inspired ambiance. They provide an impressive variety of games for purchase or complimentary play (you're also welcome to bring your own games). In addition, they have an excellent selection of craft beers, ciders, and meads. The food is also delicious! I'll definitely be coming back!

james-615
18.09.2023

Update: After many orders, I'm happy to say that adding a note when ordering indicating the items are for a collection (vs opening) resulted in pristine items. They actually cancelled one order for me because their limited inventory on that item wouldn't have made the collection cut. Obviously every order is subject to shipping damage that isn't Zulus fault, and they've become one of my go-to online vendors. Shout out to Lee and Vaughan! Original: Shipped me booster boxes and one was open at the seam. After some discussion, they generously offered to cover the cost of the return. I'll update this review in the next week as I have a number of products coming, but I am disappointed in this first shipments product condition, to say the least.

shivani-14
18.09.2023

Loved the collection of board games and vibe of this place. You can buy or enjoy some open games here. Good place to hangout with friends or family. Food was also good. We ordered potato tots and fries. This place closes at 8PM on Sundays. So if you want to enjoy some games go there in the afternoon.

Restaurantguru
4.7 ★ from 2478 reviews

FAQ

The average review of this restaurant is 4.8, which means that the Zulu's Board Game Cafe is extremely well regarded by its guests.

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