Now Open: The Collectivist Is Making Board Games Fancy in Ascot Vale, Complete with Wine and Gourmet Snacks
Pencil in an easygoing date night or all-in gathering, with epicurean delights meeting classic board games.
Leave the Doritos at home – a new spot in Ascot Vale is making your next board game night a little more gastronomic than usual. Situated in a heritage storefront on Union Road, The Collectivist pairs games, wine and gourmet snacks, perfect whether you're a serious Eurogamer or just after a sip and roll with friends. Designed by Melbourne architect Julie Sloane in collaboration with store owners James and Cameron Cahill and David McMillan, this might just be Melbourne's bougiest game shop.
Gathered around a table, the night kicks off in thematic style, as guests tick their desired wine, snack and sweets from a menu echoing classic game scoring pads. Up for selection are cheese boards featuring Bay of Fires cheddar and Brillat Savarin, while charcuterie takes things up a notch with pickled goods, olives and more. Then, game-safe snacks like marinated olives and popcorn evoke the best of game-night cuisine, with a touch of class. When you need a fully fledged meal, place an order with next-door neighbours, Pizza Minded, to munch down at your table.
The drinks menu is similarly thoughtful, with craft beers from Moo Brew and Stone & Wood served alongside wine from respected vineyards. Meanwhile, a selection of cocktails in a can are primed for keeping you refreshed as you work on deploying your strategies to perfection. Plus, there's plenty of non-alc options, like StrangeLove Soda and Naked Life.
As for the game's list: expect the full spectrum of classics, cult favourites and modern gems that bring good-natured competition and levity to your get-together. Conceived as a top-quality bar – but with more dice – the venue is just as good for a low-stakes date as when you're seeking a new local with mates. Plus, there's no expectation to even play a game, if a quiet glass of wine and a cheese board is more your style.
For those who want to get more involved, The Collectivist has also programmed an active events schedule that ramps up the community vibes. Kick the weekend off with Friday Night Games Night, or get your pals together for the monthly chess event. The crew will also go above and beyond for special occasions, like the recent launch of Catan's 6th Edition, which was met with a once-off menu inspired by the game.
"It's about connection," says James Cahill. "Games help people switch off their phones and tune into each other. Add wine and snacks, and you've got the perfect night out."
The Collectivist is open Wednesday–Sunday from 11am–8pm (open late on Fridays) at 225 Union Road, Ascot Vale. Head to the website for more information.
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