Imagine stepping back in time, a pocket full of quarters in hand, ready to conquer digital worlds and set a new high score. It’s a place where the familiar sounds of joystick wiggles and button mashes fill the air, blending with the clinking of glasses and cheerful chatter. This isn’t just a memory from your childhood; it’s a vibrant, buzzing reality waiting for you in downtown Mesa, Arizona.
Here, classic arcade cabinets and pinball machines line the walls, offering a dose of pure, unadulterated nostalgia. But it’s more than just a place to play—it’s a full-service bar and restaurant, serving up creative, game-themed cocktails and delicious, satisfying food. It’s the perfect spot to challenge a friend to a round of Street Fighter, then celebrate your victory (or soothe your defeat) with a craft beer and a gourmet sandwich.
This fantastic fusion of retro gaming and modern nightlife is called Level 1 Arcade Bar. It’s become a beloved local haunt for its laid-back atmosphere and the sheer joy of rediscovering the games that defined a generation. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a Pac-Man champion, you’ll find your happy place here.
What We Love
The Games
The heart and soul of Level 1 is its incredible collection of classic games. You’ll find everything from iconic 80s cabinets like Donkey Kong and Galaga to a fantastic lineup of gleaming pinball machines. The variety is impressive, ensuring there’s something to spark a memory or create a new one for every visitor.
All the machines are well-maintained, so you can focus on hitting that high score without any technical glitches. It’s a genuine trip down memory lane, allowing you to share the games of your youth with new friends or introduce a younger generation to the magic of the arcade.
The Drinks
You can’t have an arcade bar without the “bar,” and Level 1 excels here. The drink menu is creative and fun, featuring cleverly named cocktails that pay homage to the video games surrounding you. Think vibrant, colorful concoctions that are as enjoyable to look at as they are to drink.
Beyond the themed cocktails, they offer a solid selection of local and craft beers on tap, as well as a full range of spirits. The bartenders are skilled and friendly, ready to whip up your favorite classic or recommend a new brew to try while you play.
The Food
This is not your average snack bar. Level 1 serves up a menu of seriously good grub that goes way beyond typical bar food. You can refuel between games with hearty options like loaded tater tots, inventive sandwiches, and juicy burgers, all served in generous portions.
The kitchen puts a fresh spin on classic comfort food, making it the perfect complement to a night of gaming and drinks. It’s the kind of satisfying meal that turns a quick visit for a game or two into a full evening out.
The Vibe
What truly makes Level 1 special is the atmosphere. It’s completely unpretentious and welcoming, drawing a diverse crowd of gamers, couples on date night, and groups of friends looking for a fun, casual hangout. The energy is always upbeat and positive.
The space is filled with the glow of screens and the buzz of friendly competition, but it never feels overwhelming. It strikes the perfect balance between a high-energy arcade and a relaxed neighborhood bar where you can easily hold a conversation.
The Nostalgia
There’s a powerful sense of nostalgia that hits you the moment you walk in. For anyone who grew up in the 80s or 90s, the sights and sounds are an instant portal back to a simpler time. It’s a place built on shared cultural memories.
Watching friends cheer each other on while playing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or seeing a couple battling it out on Mortal Kombat is part of the fun. It’s this shared experience and celebration of retro culture that keeps people coming back again and again.
Atmosphere & Setting
Level 1 is cozy and cool, with dim, colorful lighting from the games creating an inviting glow. The decor is a fun mix of retro and modern, with exposed brick walls adorned with pop culture art that perfectly complements the vintage arcade cabinets. It feels like you’ve stepped into the coolest basement hangout you could have ever imagined as a kid.
The layout is smart, with games arranged to allow for easy movement, and a well-placed bar that serves as the social hub. Whether you’re standing at a cabinet, grabbing a high-top table with friends, or sitting at the bar, you always feel like you’re part of the action without it being too crowded.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. One of the best parts about Level 1 is its great value. There’s no cover charge to get in, so you can walk right in and soak up the atmosphere for free. The classic arcade games and pinball machines operate on quarters, just like they used to, which means a little bit of cash can go a long way. Food and drink prices are reasonable for a downtown spot, especially given the quality and portion sizes. It’s an affordable night out that delivers a huge dose of entertainment and fun, making it well worth the visit.
Other Considerations
Age Policy: This spot is strictly 21 and over at all times, so be sure to bring your ID. It’s an adult playground, making it a great choice for a date or a night out with friends.
Parking: Being in downtown Mesa, you can find street parking nearby, as well as several public parking lots. It’s also conveniently located right on the Valley Metro Rail line, making public transit an easy option.
Bring Quarters: While they have change machines available, it never hurts to come prepared with a few quarters in your pocket so you can dive right into the gaming action.
Popular Spot: It can get busy, especially on weekend nights. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider stopping by on a weeknight or earlier in the evening.
If you’re looking for something different from the usual bar scene, Level 1 Arcade Bar is a must-visit. It’s a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously and is dedicated to one thing: having a good time. It’s a celebration of fun, plain and simple.
So grab your friends, head to downtown Mesa, and get ready to mash some buttons. A night of nostalgic fun, great food, and tasty drinks awaits you. You won’t regret it!
Leave A Comment