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The Grid: Games and Growlers image

The Grid: Games and Growlers

Restaurant Bar Event venue Lounge Vegan restaurant Live music venue Video arcade

Pub featuring an arcade with new & classic games, tabletop & console games, bar eats & tap brews. People often mention games, good, great, play, time, friends, drinks, free, karaoke, night,


Address

525 S Gilbert Rd A-7, Mesa, AZ 85204

Contact

(480) 621-8088

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (1.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

Permanently closed.

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: games (24) good (15) great (13) play (12) time (10) friends (10) drinks (10) free (8) karaoke (7) night (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 2/5 Spencer H. 4 years ago on Google
    Not as much here as you'd like there to be, but the culture is decent and prices are good besides them charging a dollar for a soda refill.. They usually keep it pretty clean and they have events all the time. I just wish there was more competition for game bars because they get away with being really lazy here. If you want to go in the other room where half the machines are off, the Switch is always monopolized for hours by the same people, and you want to sit on a couch facing a wall, then maybe this is the place for you. Management clearly doesn't care and/or doesn't have the money to fix things so you I guarantee you will start seeing lower and lower reviews. Update: Came here to support friends in Rock band karaoke, I can't drink alcohol at the moment and I can't eat anything on the menu. I was told if I just order soda and nothing else, then I'm not allowed to stay... Which is fine because I am HAPPY to leave at this point.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Jeff R. 5 years ago on Google
    Nowhere inside of this place felt comfortable or inviting. The music was way too loud, and made it impossible to hold a conversation. We had to cup our hands and yell into each other's ears to hear one another. They charge a cover fee just to get in and look around; and the arcade games still cost money to play. They had broken machines and random junk just hanging out on the floor. The layout makes it hard to get around people playing games or hogging bar space. Also, the drinks were expensive. I won't be coming back to this place.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 othniel t. 1 year ago on Google
    Terrible, first of all they had a cover charge for a really terrible band that was playing consistently talking about his engagement/interactions with the female genitalia and there were drunk women who were very interested in his stories which was mind blowing. The place was a dumpster, bottles left on tables everywhere, no one cleaning up...honestly probably the true lab for COVID-19 origins and who knows what other future viruses. Just a terrible experience with terrible drinks and service. I'd avoid it, go buy a gaming system and a few drinks and play and drink at home, a much more entertaining night than going here. Edit/Reply to Owner: It happened May 7th, 2022.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Josh B. 2 years ago on Google
    Fun place to go with friends and do something different. They have a wide range of things to do vs niche gaming bar. Consoles, air hockey, pinball, board games, darts, PC, karaoke and a DJ(night we went). We enjoyed the wings and butter beer!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 fewntug 1 year ago on Google
    The Grid has genuinely cemented itself into my life. I was drawn in by the concept of a barcade after Endgame (OG) had shut down and I was finally of age to actually enjoy one. Right off the bat this place wowed me with its unabashedly geeky presentation, then kept packing punches with the bonkers game selection, the awesome staff, and the cool events they host. I’m a regular Rockband Monday patron because of the fun and the vibe. The Grid is staffed with some great people (shoutsout to Danny behind the bar and Dillin wherever he needs to be) and generally just loaded with them too. I’ve made a bunch of friends here because that’s just the kind of spot it is. If anything about this bar has you curious, drop by and check it out!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dan J. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is legit! I’ve never been to a “Bar-cade” before, their collection of Pinball machines is something to be proud of. They also have a lot of old school games on NES, SNES, Dreamcast?, etc. Awesome little spot!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Jorie T. 1 year ago on Google
    I feel bamboozled by the good reviews of this establishment. The place was disgusting and the stench was horrid. Like they tried to clean with bleach but couldn't eliminate the smell of sweaty "armpits" or something👀🧐. We walked in, sprinted out, and drove to Total Wine. BEST DECISION OF THE NIGHT. Read the one star reviews, they tell you everything you need to know and are spot on. Issues owner says are "addressed" have not been. That smell from my visit in March 2023 is still in my nostrils....
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Britt A. 1 year ago on Google
    Very cool atmosphere to where you can drink beer, eat from a menu with plenty of choices and play games on almost every gaming platform. The owner is real nice and listens to customers opinions. I really enjoyed this place and will return even if I am alone.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tashena A. 1 year ago on Google
    Such an un-assuming spot! Came in here once a long time ago on a whim with a friend who was visiting from out of town, and we had a blast! So many free game options. I then returned 3 years later (a few months ago) with another friend, and the layout had change, but the atmosphere and great vibes were still there. The staff is really laid back and nice, games are still free or nearly free to play. Lots and lots of options. They do concerts, stand-up comedy nights, and more. Plus it's the best dang buffalo cauliflower in town. Trust me, it's not soggy. They have their secret method down pact! Yummmmm!!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tia H. 1 year ago on Google
    Husband took me on a date here. Got caught up in video games, mead, and good food. Staff was delightful and helpful. Husband is addicted I think as he plans on going back as often as possible. It is well worth the drive to have a place that we can relax, have fun, and just enjoy the moment.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tj C. 1 year ago on Google
    A dive arcade bar hosting karaoke, just dance, rockband, RPGs, comedy, multiple genres of live and dance music events and a large collection of modern and vintage console and cabinet games. Beer/wine bar, no liquor. The one-man kitchen is VERY good, providing vegetarian/vegan options. It's not perfect but neither am I, so I fit right in.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Heath M. 2 years ago on Google
    Good variety in food, quality is okay. Lots of interesting cocktails. The place is full of nerds, which isn't surprising at all. As of when I visited 4/22 have some pinball machines, 2 or 3 arcade cabinets, and a whole bunch of consoles. My group was overwhelmed by choosing from all those options and also sort of underwhelmed as we realized that we have access to lots of games at home. Definitely worth trying out, see if it's something you like. I think if I lived nearby and wanted a nerd bar, this would be a good choice for a couple drinks and some games.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda B. 1 year ago on Google
    The Grid is a fun bar to peruse with friends :) Theres plenty of different consoles, cabinets, and even boardgames to play while you drink and enjoy the atmosphere. The themed drinks are tasty and well priced- I suggest staying on menu more than trying to work around the ingredients for a special request. Overall a great bar and friendly atmosphere! :)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard N. 1 year ago on Google
    Went in with our son for Karaoke and some drinks. Cover for the event was very reasonable, drinks were great, food was pretty good also. All around a great experience. They have Butterbeer!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew D. 1 year ago on Google
    Went for karaoke Thursday with my wife. Very non judgemental crowd and host. One of the only places I've ever seen with a tournament style Killer Queen setup. The cover charge is almost nother and there are a lot of free homebrew games to play. Great seeing the innovation, I hope they're able to stick around indefinitely.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Todd “Shuglutes” P. 5 years ago on Google
    So, I'd never been to this place until today, and let me tell you, I don't play a lot of video games. But I do like all the old Nintendo and Sega games that are scattered all throughout this place. They also have air Hockey , old arcade games with unlimited free play, and pinball. They have a nice selection of beer. I had some buffalo chicken fries that were pretty tasty. I came here for a T.O.S.O show on a Friday, the crowd was a decent size, but it's very spacious. The sound was great, show was great. Overall had a really great time, and I can see myself coming back soon!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Brenan Z. 1 year ago on Google
    The concept is great and has a lot of potential. However, there are some hygienic issues with the bathrooms (mold in toilets) and I almost fell through the chairs for gaming. Prices were decent though.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ash “Bête N. 1 year ago on Google
    I love this place with my whole body & soul, amazing staff, amazing amenities when it comes to video games, karaoke nights, Rockband night & the vibe is what keeps me going back. Highly recommend to anyone who lives in the Mesa/Gilbert area, Good vibes n good times.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Clarice C. 1 year ago on Google
    This bar has super fun and supportive atmosphere! The games are free, and they do karaoke! The food and drinks are also really good. The staff watch your back too, and make sure you're comfortable and safe.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Roxxy H. 1 year ago on Google
    Wish the place was a little bit bigger or had more places to sit at because when kareoke started instead of letting us play some of the customers just sat by some of the games to watch the people sing and weren't playing the games. The kitchen looked very messy so we didn't order any good but the drinks were amazing and this place was fun and had different events every day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Nathan B. 1 year ago on Google
    The place was not bad tbh, but the bathrooms were horrendous and there was a type of mildu ordor in the back rooms by the air hockey area in general. After I bought a drink they charged me an extra 25$ and didnt say anything to me at the time. When I got home and checked my account it was not cool to see clearly the drink I paid for and closed out my tab right away and above it a 25$ charge with no explanation. Games were cool, and environment ok but added with the other stuff ehh it was fun to go out in general for a friends 21st but the additions werent needed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 PUGSLEY G. 6 years ago on Google
    First time visit. Hummus was pretty good. A little dry. My friends hamburger was good. Staff had awesome personalities. Had fun with them. Their concept is unique. Games are free with purchase (s). Kids can play games free and have a good meal too. Just a good place all around.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kenzi V. 1 year ago on Google
    Great staff, we always have fun here. Whether you are drinking with friends on the weekend or taking the teenagers out for root beer and something to do out of trouble No fluff with an "anti-downtown&anti-touristy" kinda vibe... And in all honesty, I hate to be one of those... but; locals only plz! ... Lol 😂 kidding.

  • 3/5 Midnight I. 1 year ago on Google
    It was okay. Pinball machine wasn't on. Seems like maintenance was low. Great if you wanna make local friends but not for an out of state bar stop. Staff was friendly though.

  • 3/5 miguel l. 1 year ago on Google
    I've been here a few times. There are plenty of games to play. From entertainment systems, board games, and some pinball machines. This will be my 3rd time here, and a lot has changed since I was last here. The food was okay. Last time, I got the chickens tenders, and tots were really good. This time, they were okay and didn't get a second dipping sauce. Even on their menu says two dipping sauce. A lot of their entertainment systems and pinball machines are gone. Their menu of beer selection has also changed. I always order their valley spiked sour beer. They used to have their week scheduled by the bar, and that is also gone. It's a decent place to come and a great place to have a night out with friends

  • 5/5 Danny Williamson I. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely incredible venue! Visited for the first time on a Tuesday night to celebrate my birthday with some friends, and the owner made us feel like VIPs. A welcoming and inviting atmosphere, deicious food, killer mocktails, and games from every era as far as the eyes can see. We came expecting to check the place out, and ended up staying all night due to having such a great time. Would highly recommend for a special occasion or just a simple night out for some fun!

  • 5/5 Christina K. 1 year ago on Google
    The Grid has an eclectic, laid back, welcoming ambience. Karaoke is karaoke. The gaming stations are so remiscient of chikdhood it's like a blast from the 80s-90s to today. Fun, affordable, comfortable. Yummy, bar type fare.

  • 3/5 Shaya J. 1 year ago on Google
    I go to this bar often as it's down the street. It's got its highs and lows. Highs: bartenders are all absolutely awesome, drinks are great, selections of games and consoles absolutely fantastic, tons of baord games also to play, dedicated large screen and switch for super smash battles Lows: back room with arcades tends to have a terrible odor; legitimately so bad this past weekend that me and a friend had to leave the bar bc it was so horrendous. Due to the culture of gaming, you get some creeps in here. There was a guy who wouldn't leave us alone this past weekend, he was also harassing a girl there wtj her boyfriend and they ulti ately ended up leaving bc of him. Hygiene: bathrooms are scuzzy and there is just a general ickyness All in all, a good game bar to go to if you are a gamer and want to geek out, I don't recommend it for the fancy milennials going out to try and find a barcade as this is not the prototype of the new style barcade. I'll continue going back as it is local and fun and employees are great. Just hope they can clean up some of the grosness, maybe get rid of the old non working arcades in the back too


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Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery

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