The Side Quest

Looking for a place to unplug, laugh with friends, and discover your new favorite game? The Side Quest in south Anchorage is Alaska's first dedicated board game café — a cozy spot where you pay a cover charge and get access to more than 300 titles, from well-loved classics to modern strategy games most locals have never heard of.

What Is The Side Quest?

Owner Chris Morlang opened The Side Quest in early 2026, inspired by the thriving board game café scene he encountered in South Korea. The concept is simple: pay a flat cover ($12 for adults, $6 for kids), grab a seat, and pick from a library that grows every month. The games aren't for sale — this is a play-in-place experience. Even the dice trays and meeple bags on the table are loaners.

The Side Quest sits off Old Seward Highway on 68th Avenue, tucked into the same complex as Putters Wild indoor minigolf. It's a low-key, unpretentious space designed for long sessions — whether you're teaching grandma Settlers of Catan or diving into a 90-minute dungeon crawl with strangers who become friends by the end of the night.

What to Play

With more than 300 titles on the shelves, there's no shortage of options. Monopoly leads in popularity, but the library includes cooperative adventures, quick card games, abstract strategy titles, and worthwhile picks for every skill level. Not sure what to play? Staff are happy to recommend something based on your group size and mood — that's part of the deal.

Plan Your Visit

The Side Quest is open Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturdays from noon to midnight. It's closed Sundays, though private event bookings are available. It's a natural follow-up after dinner nearby or a casual weeknight alternative to the bar scene. For a full Anchorage evening out, pair it with a stop at Anchorage Distillery or end the night with a craft pint at Midnight Sun Brewing Company. Exploring more of what Anchorage has to offer? Anchorage Museum is another worthwhile stop for the curious.