Key Points
- DRAUGHTS, a renowned board game café group, has opened a vast new venue in Stratford, East London, celebrating its 10th anniversary.
- The new venue is London’s first board game restaurant and bar.
- The location spans over 4,000 square feet, including a 570-square-foot outdoor gaming area with views of the London Stadium and Waterworks River.
- It houses nearly 1,000 board games and accommodates over 150 guests indoors across two floors.
- The menu features diverse dishes inspired by Korean, Mexican, and Japanese cuisines, including options for vegetarians and vegans.
- A wide selection of drinks is offered, from craft beers and orange wines to low and no-alcohol options.
- The venue is part of a burgeoning cultural and educational hub in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, alongside institutions like the BBC and London College of Fashion.
- Founder Nick Curci expressed excitement about future expansion and innovation plans for DRAUGHTS.
What Is the New Board Gaming Venue in East London?
As reported by Secret London on September 2, 2025, the much-loved DRAUGHTS group has opened a sprawling new board gaming venue in Stratford, East London, to mark the 10th anniversary of their brand. This new site, located in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, stands out as London’s very first combined board game restaurant and bar. It offers an immersive gaming experience alongside dining, bringing two popular leisure activities together under one roof.
How Large Is the New DRAUGHTS Venue and What Facilities Does It Offer?
According to reporting by Time Out London (February 14, 2025) and Secret London, the new DRAUGHTS location stretches over 4,000 square feet. Indoor space measures about 3,540 square feet, with an additional 570-square-foot outdoor gaming area that lets guests enjoy views of the iconic London Stadium and the Waterworks River. The venue has seating capacity for over 150 guests inside across two floors and additional outdoor space for gaming and dining al fresco.
How Extensive Is the Board Game Collection at the Venue?
DRAUGHTS Stratford boasts a vast collection of almost 1,000 board games for visitors to play. This collection caters to a wide range of interests and skill levels, promising something for neophytes and seasoned gamers alike. The venue also employs friendly hosts and games experts, who assist guests in selecting games suited to their group size and interests, and help explain the rules.
What Food and Drink Options Are Available at DRAUGHTS Stratford?
The venue’s food and drink offerings are curated to complement the gaming experience. Secret London revealed that the menu features a diverse selection of global dishes inspired by Korean, Mexican, and Japanese cuisines, including Gochujang fried chicken burgers and pulled pork tacos. There is also an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes available. Drink options cover craft beers, orange wine, low and no-alcohol beverages, as well as traditional hot drinks and sodas on tap. The variety ensures that guests can find refreshments to suit their tastes while gaming.
Where Is the Venue Located and Why Is It Significant?
Situated within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the DRAUGHTS Stratford venue forms part of a growing creative and cultural hub in East London. This area is already home to major institutions such as the BBC, London College of Fashion, Sadler’s Wells, and the recently opened V&A East museum. The presence of DRAUGHTS enhances the neighborhood’s draw as a destination for entertainment, culture, and education. It’s an example of how East London continues to evolve and attract innovative leisure offerings.
What Has DRAUGHTS Said About Future Plans?
Nick Curci, founder of DRAUGHTS, stated his enthusiasm about the company’s future, affirming that they are excited to explore new avenues for expansion and innovation. He expressed a commitment to ensuring that DRAUGHTS remains a leading player in the combined board game and hospitality industry. This new venue is part of that ongoing journey.
