Kansas City Says Goodbye to Pawn & Pint: A Beloved Board Game Café Shuts Its Doors
Kansas City has always had a flair for fun and games, but the city’s charm has taken a hit with the recent news from Pawn & Pint. This well-loved board game café, which had been a go-to spot for friends, families, and game lovers since its grand opening in 2016, has officially closed its doors for good. The announcement was made in a heartfelt post on Facebook, leaving many in the community nostalgic and reflecting on the memories made over countless game nights.
A Journey Back in Time
For those unfamiliar with its backstory, Pawn & Pint was born from a passion for board games and community. The café kicked off in the trendy Crossroads Arts District, where owners ran a successful Kickstarter campaign, raising nearly $19,000 to launch their dream. Unfortunately, despite their enthusiasm, they faced a hurdle: they couldn’t secure a liquor license at their original location. Undeterred, the team found a new home at 613 Walnut St. in 2017, where both game enthusiasts and casual players could kick back with a drink in hand while diving into their favorite games.
Good Times, Great Games
Pawn & Pint quickly grew into a local favorite, boasting an incredible collection of over 1,000 board games available for customers to enjoy. Whether it was a cozy date night, a lively group outing, or a random Tuesday, the café was always buzzing with laughter and friendly competition. It became a hub for the Kansas City gaming community, hosting events, tournaments, and themed nights throughout the years.
The Difficult Decision
However, as we know all too well, the world has been changing. The pandemic shook things up, and many local businesses have struggled to stay afloat in recent months. Pawn & Pint felt the pinch, announcing its closing on November 22 with the bittersweet message: “No saving throw can save us this time.” It’s a phrase that resonates with gamers everywhere, a light-hearted nod to the formidable odds they faced during trying times.
Part of a Bigger Trend
Pawn & Pint isn’t alone in this struggle. In the weeks leading up to its closure, several Downtown businesses, like Strang Chef Collective at Lightwell and KC Daiquiri Shop on Grand Blvd., have also announced permanent shutdowns. It’s evident that the past few years have proven tough for many local establishments.
Looking Ahead
Although it’s sad to see Pawn & Pint leave its mark on Kansas City, there’s still hope for board game lovers in the area. A similar concept called ReRoll Tavern has recently opened its doors at 2368 Armour Road, providing patrons with another place to gather and play. On the Kansas side, the Cardboard Corner Cafe is thriving in both Overland Park and Lenexa, carrying on the spirit of board gaming and community.
A Fond Farewell
As Kansas City bids farewell to Pawn & Pint, the memory of those unforgettable game nights lingers on. The laughter, the thrill of competition, and the deep connections formed over strategy games and dice rolls will not be forgotten. To all the staff, owners, and loyal patrons of Pawn & Pint, thank you for the joy and camaraderie you brought to our city. Here’s to new adventures ahead, whether they’re on the board or off of it!
