Barcadia: the retro resurgence
A new venue is offering a nostalgic twist on a night out in Cape Town’s CBD. Located on Hout Street, Barcadia is carving out a niche as the city's first 'barcade,' combining a bar with a classic arcade experience. It’s a haven for both the Gen Z gamer and the person who spent their youth with a pocketful of coins at their local arcade.
The owner, Alex Arcade, has a background in software engineering, which led him to explore the gaming world, especially the arcade scene of the '90s. The idea for the venue sparked during his travels to the United States, where he discovered the thriving arcade bar culture. He noted that this fusion of retro gaming and a bar carried an irresistible allure across multiple generations.
Barcadia is committed to maintaining the arcade games as they were intended to be played. The machines use Cathode-Ray Tube monitors, which became irrelevant as technology advanced but are cherished here for their vivid colours and authentic feel. Patrons will find each console a work of art, whether it’s the blinding and familiar lights of Pac-Man or the iconic limited edition KISS pinball machine. Games are free to play and enjoyed with an ice cold beer or popcorn and a coffee alike.
The bar holds a spirited social scene where one can challenge their friends to classic games like Tekken and Terminator while surrounded by like-minded people. The future of Barcadia extends beyond the arcade, with live entertainment and events planned.
The barcade aims to create a seamless blend between the physical venue and a mobile-based experience, allowing visitors to engage with the environment through their smartphones. Barcadia's website offers information on high scores, competitions, and even the opportunity to report any issues with the machines. Alex is also looking to extend accessibility digitally, maximising the limited space the brick-and-mortar venue offers.
With its retro games in a contemporary setting, commitment to authenticity and enchantingly nostalgic vibe, Barcadia is quickly becoming a hub for both gaming enthusiasts and those looking for a unique social experience. And there will be no waiting for the kid in front of you to hurry up with their Space Invaders game: this is a 21 and over bar.
Images by Clinton Kinghorn
Words by Cher Petersen for Letterhead