A new haven for board game enthusiasts has emerged at the Broadway Coffeehouse in Salem Oregon. Dubbed the “Tabletop Loft,” this innovative space is redefining the local cafe culture by blending the love for ethically sourced coffee with the joy of board gaming. Manager Matt Mlinarcik shares the vision behind this unique addition and how it’s creating a buzz among locals and visitors alike.
Matt Mlinarcik isn’t just the manager of Broadway Coffeehouse; he’s the visionary behind the Tabletop Loft. With a tenure of almost five years at Broadway and over two years in his current role, Matt has witnessed the coffeehouse evolve. Yet, it’s his passion for board games and community building that sparked the idea for the Tabletop Loft. “Board games have been a fantastic way for me to connect with people,” Matt explains, emphasizing how these games foster social interactions that go beyond the ordinary.
Since opening its doors in 2010, Broadway Coffeehouse has become a cornerstone in Salem for coffee lovers and a community gathering place. The commitment to serving high-quality, ethically sourced coffee is matched by its dedication to being a welcoming space for all. Matt proudly notes the partnership with local roasters to ensure every cup reflects the coffeehouse’s quality and ethics. “Serving great coffee and providing a space for the community is what we’re all about,” Matt says, underlining the dual mission that Broadway has championed for over a decade.
The inception of the Tabletop Loft was as much a personal journey for Matt as it was a strategic decision for Broadway Coffeehouse. Inspired by his experiences hosting board game meet ups in Maryland, Matt saw an opportunity to bring a similar community-centric initiative to Salem. “The idea was to utilize an available space in a way that aligns with our vision of community building,” Matt explains. Thus, the Tabletop Loft was born—a dedicated area for board game aficionados to gather, play, and connect.
Tucked away on the second floor of Broadway Coffeehouse, the Tabletop Loft offers an exclusive place for board game play. With four large tables capable of accommodating up to 32 players, the Loft is spacious yet inviting. Matt’s excitement is palpable as he describes the setup: “We’re calling it the Tabletop Loft—elevated, both literally and metaphorically, to offer an unmatched board gaming experience.”
Open Thursday through Sunday from 4 PM to 9 PM, with specific times reserved for open play and scheduled meet ups, the Tabletop Loft caters to a wide audience. “Thursday and Sunday are the scheduled meet up nights, perfect for those looking to join a game or meet fellow gamers,” Matt highlights. Friday and Saturday are open to the public and are more designed for bringing your own group. A nominal $5 fee per person ensures unlimited playtime, contributing to a managed and quality experience for everyone.
With a growing collection of 100 board games, ranging from classics to modern strategy games, the Tabletop Loft is prepared to cater to all tastes and ages. “We’re constantly adding to our collection, ensuring there’s always something new to discover,” Matt says.
As the Tabletop Loft at Broadway Coffeehouse continues to gain popularity, Matt’s vision is for it to become a cornerstone for board game lovers in Salem. He invites everyone to experience the Tabletop Loft, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of board games. “Come join us, and be part of a growing community that celebrates creativity, strategy, and connection,” Matt enthuses.
Broadway Coffeehouse remains dedicated to its mission of serving exceptional coffee and fostering community spaces. With the addition of the Tabletop Loft, it’s set to become a cherished destination for board game enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike in Salem, Oregon.
To view the Board Game Library, get more information about the Tabletop Loft, or to RSVP for an up-coming meet up, visit https://www.broadwaycoffeehouse.com/tabletop-loft.
On Saturday April 6, 2024 from 1-9 PM, Broadway Coffeehouse will be a hosting a grand opening of their new Tabletop Loft. For $5 at the door, you can join in on the fun and help to celebrate this exciting new adventure for Broadway! There will be door prizes ranging from t-shirts, gift cards, as well as a grand prize that includes a game!
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