Video game themed bar set to 'level up' Newcastle’s nightlife this summer

A new arcade bar that combines nightlife leisure with retro games is coming to Pilgrim Street, Newcastle this August.

NQ64 will bring neon splattered drinking dens full of retro arcade games and classic consoles to the city, with a game-themed cocktail and craft beer menu that can be enjoyed whilst button bashing to victory against your mates.

Promising to “light up” Newcastle’s nightlife this Summer, NQ64 will bring a mix of retro arcade games, classic consoles and bespoke cocktails. Their signature neon-filled aesthetic is set to provide the first immersive arcade bar experience of its kind to the North East.

Taking over the former Intermezzo bar on Pilgrim Street, the Newcastle opening will be NQ64’s ninth UK site, following venues in Soho, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Liverpool. NQ64 will welcome the public to its newest venue from the first week in August.

With a choice of original arcade games including Time Crisis, Dance Dance Revolution, Tekken, Guitar Hero and Pac-Man, along with pinball machines and classic consoles, there will be a dedicated bar area with stools, booths and space to dance or to soak up the “underground cool vibes” to the sound of NQ64’s hip-hop and R&B playlist.

Taking just as much pride in its bar selection alongside the classic arcade offerings, the adult-only venue will offer several game-themed cocktails such as Kirby, Donkey Kolada and the Aku Aku Fruit Punch (inspired by Crash Bandicoot), alongside a selection of craft beers, wine, sodas, and spirits.

NQ64 co-founder, Matthew Robson, commented: “Being a born and bred Geordie, opening in Newcastle is particularly special for me, and my mum! I hope NQ64 will bring a different offering to the city. We specialise in retro gaming and combine it with a banging drinks selection with a backdrop of classic hip hop tunes. See you at the bar!”