Meeple and Mug

Overview

For the uninitiated, a meeple is a human-shaped player token commonly used in board games, derived from the term 'my people'. If you already knew this, chances are you'll find your people at West End cafe Meeple and Mug.

Although the cafe feels like a library with its mismatched lounging and modern white-and-dark-green walls, it would be hard to get any work done in such a temptingly fun atmosphere. Nothing says 'hang here all day' quite like a near-encyclopedic collection of nearly 300 board games — and the staff never kick anyone out until the games are over.

The collection features all your classic family game night picks, new game releases, and staff picks from independent Australian board game makers. The entertainment at this unabashedly geeky cafe starts at the door — customers can roll a dice to determine their price. Get lucky and roll a two for $2 board games all day – just beware the dreaded 12.

No game sesh is complete without something to munch on. Fuel up with a cuppa and plenty of comfort snacks (think chicken nuggets, loaded fries, saucy meatballs and even a veggie curry), plus an array of sweet treats such as doughnuts and ice cream. If you're feeling sharp enough to keep your head in the game, get boozy with a list of playful board game-themed cocktails and a solid beer and spirit selection. 

Beyond fun and bar bites, Meeple and  Mug is all about community. From table markers that help players connect to regular LGBTQIA+ events and how-to-play evenings, it's a space where anyone ready to roll the dice can feel right at home.

Images by Katie Ann Morfoot and supplied