Everything old is new again! Over the past few years, Toronto has seen a re-emergence of trends, styles, and technology that Millennials grew up on; vinyl records are outselling CDs, Champion sweaters are seen everywhere, classic TV shows are getting remakes, and much more. As video games surge in popularity, classic video games are either getting remakes or bars and arcades are keeping them alive, creating new fans and rekindling the fandom of longtime gamers. Here are some of the best arcades and video game bars in Toronto to get your game on!

Cabin Fever

Craft brews, cocktails, and pinball machines fill this compact spot on Bloor just east of High Park. They offer a variety of pinball machines for casual and competitive pinball players, including a league for the latter. This spot offers $10 all-you-can-play pinball on Sunday nights, and a variety of drink deals throughout the week; this 19+ spot is a great place to relive the good ol’ days of coin-operated fun. Check them out on Instagram for what’s going on today!

Location: 1669 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON, M6P 1A6.‍

Phone Number: 416-531-4563.

For more information, visit their website!

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Dundas Video

Despite their name, Dundas Video isn’t a video rental store; it’s a bar with delicious cocktails, chill vibes, and classic video games (peep that Duck Hunt setup in the corner!). Frequent drink deals, DJ sets, and special events make this retro-inspired spot the place to be, and it’s only a short walk away from Dundas and Bathurst. Give them a follow to see what’s going on tonight and take a trip back to the eighties! 

Location: 831 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON, M6J 1V4.

For more information, visit their Instagram!

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Freeplay TORONTO

Boasting two floors of arcade cabinets and the largest collection of hockey arcade games anywhere in the world, Freeplay Arcade near College and Spadina is a great spot for those looking for that old-school arcade feel. They complement this selection of games with a great cocktail menu, beer list, and Noel Cunningham’s signature Jamaican-inspired cuisine. With drink specials every night and unlimited gameplay for a $5 cover charge, Freeplay is a go-to spot for an unforgettable night on the town. Check out their Instagram and see what's new!

Location: 300 College St, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R9.‍

Phone Number: 416-929-2979. 

For more information, visit their website!

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The Greater Good Bar

Pizza, pinball, and pints; a match made in heaven and one that The Greater Good Bar at Dufferin and Dupont has been offering customers for over 6 years. They’ve got slices and pies from North of Brooklyn Pizzeria, a craft beer rotation of 18 premium brews, and a selection of arcade cabinets, pinball machines, and Skee-Ball lanes on their second floor. They put an emphasis on food and beverages produced here in Ontario, as they believe that locally sourced products are for The Greater Good. Stay tuned to their Instagram to see what they have in their fridge!

Location: 229 Geary Ave, Toronto, ON, M6H 2C1.‍

Phone Number: 647-348-2339.‍

For more information, visit their website!

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The Rec Room

With 10 locations all around Canada, The Rec Room has grown to rival Dave & Buster’s with its offering of fast-paced arcade games and gourmet food. Toronto’s location is the Roundhouse, located across the street from the Rogers Centre, and boasts a menu designed by THREE10 that draws inspiration from Canada’s provinces and territories. With ping pong, pool, and shuffleboard to compliment their huge selection of arcade games, The Rec Room is a unique nightlife fixture of the downtown core.

Location: 255 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON, M5V 3M9.‍

Phone Number: 416-815-0086.

For more information, visit their website!

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ZED*80

The sister location of popular arcade bar Tilt, ZED*80 is one of Toronto’s premier arcade bars, and is located in the heart of the Danforth; just a short walk from Broadview station. They boast an expansive selection of arcade cabinets and pinball machines with all the classics, and multi-cart consoles featuring all of your favourite Nintendo and SEGA games. With a great selection of draft beers on tap, ZED*80 is a spot on the Danforth that you should not miss. See what's new on their Instagram!

Location: 185 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2

For more information, visit their website!