Business Lift Up: Game n’ Grounds
George Caceras, a game enthusiast, always wanted to open a gaming store. His wife and co-owner, Angharad Caceres is the coffee aficionado. Even before their idea came to life, the pair travelled around the continent to research what a business combining their two passions would look like. The Board and Brew in Philadelphia and Meeples Games in Seattle became the inspiration for their new business venture.
Angharad, who owns Craftiness, a craft store in Chatsworth, thought it would be a great idea to have their business across the street from her existing one.
“Chatsworth is in the middle of revitalizing the area and bringing more new businesses in. We thought it would be a great location for our business concept,” shared George on choosing the location for their enterprise.
In November 2021, the couple tried to open their new store, Game n’ Grounds. However, various pandemic related obstacles prevented them from doing so. Finally, on March 15, 2022, they opened their doors to a very enthusiast crowd in the San Fernando Valley community
Game n’ Grounds, a gaming café with a huge game library, is a hang out space for customers to play a game while having their coffee and grabbing a bite to eat from their menu of breakfast burritos, pastries, and paninis. Creating a space for gamers and non-gamers to hang out and have a good time is George and Angharad’s goal.
Customers can rent games, buy games, or try out games on the spot. Their team is very knowledgeable about the games and can make suggestions based on your preferences.
“With people getting out more, we wanted people to have connections they can’t get anywhere else: enjoy the games, the food, and the ambiance. What we are trying to do is build a community for gamers, friends, and families to try out a new game and get out of their comfort zone a little,” said George.
Over the past few months, the popularity of Game n’ Grounds grew through word of mouth and Instagram posts. George was surprised at how quickly their business became popular since they haven’t done any advertising campaigns for it.
Saturday late afternoons and evening is the busiest time at the café. The space is packed, with customers waiting for a turn at the tables. It’s also because Saturdays are Dungeons and Dragons night, with a dungeon master on the premises to run the game.
They’ve also added board game nights on Friday nights and Magic the Gathering tournaments on Wednesday nights. Open mic and a cosplay night are some possible events patrons might see in the future.
Game n Grounds is located at 21727 Devonshire St., Chatsworth, CA 91311. Visit their website for more information.
