Retro arcade bar group NQ64 has confirmed it will open its largest venue to date in Soho next month, expanding its London presence with a new location on Manette Street. The bar, set to debut on September 11, will take over the former site of Soho club Orange Yard and will feature a mix of classic arcade cabinets, free-play consoles, and modern interactive games.
The new venue will include a wide array of arcade cabinets, such as Guitar Hero and classic pinball machines, alongside free-play consoles like the Nintendo 64, GameCube, and the original PlayStation. Beyond the traditional offerings, the bar will also feature claw machines, UV pool tables, and augmented reality darts, adding a contemporary twist to the retro gaming experience.
Drinks and Atmosphere
True to the NQ64 brand, the Soho bar will be decorated with neon lighting and will serve arcade-inspired cocktails. Highlights include the Quick Revive No.5, a nod to the Call of Duty perk, and a frozen Deadshot Daiquiri. For those avoiding alcohol, the venue will also offer CBD-infused cocktails.
NQ64 was founded in Manchester's Northern Quarter in 2019 and has since expanded to multiple UK cities, including Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Bristol, Nottingham, and Newcastle. In London, the group already operates arcade bars on Berwick Street and in Shoreditch, making Soho its third London location.
Expansion and Impact
The opening of the Soho venue marks a significant step for NQ64, as it will be the group's largest bar to date. The location at W1D 4AR is expected to attract both nostalgic gamers and newcomers seeking a unique nightlife experience. With the addition of augmented reality darts and UV pool tables, NQ64 aims to offer more than just traditional arcade gaming, blending retro charm with modern technology.
The announcement comes amid a wave of new gaming-themed venues in London, including a recently revealed neon arcade on the South Bank. As NQ64 prepares to open its doors, the Soho bar is poised to become a key destination for gaming enthusiasts in the capital.
