ARTcade, a combination art gallery, arcade, and bar, is set to open in South Beach, and the concept of playing Q*bert while holding a cold brew is totally mind-blowing.
ARTcade, which features classic games, creative beer, and local art, opens Friday, July 11, at 235 12th St., just off Ocean Drive in a former art gallery. Not that we don't like art in South Beach -- we just like it better with Pac-Man.
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ARTcade is the brainchild of the owners of the Cabaret South Beach, located next door. Partners Edison Farrow, Ed DeCaso, and GM Carlos Rojas were looking for a bar that offered something different from the typical "velvet rope" scene. Farrow tells Short Order that he noticed arcade-themed bars popping up all over the country and decided Miami Beach needed one as well. He describes ARTcade as "a mix of an arcade and bar. The collection of games has started but will continue to grow."
ARTcade will feature retro games from the '80s like Galaga, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, Frogger, and Ms. Pac-Man. Best of all, these retro games come with retro prices -- they're only a quarter a game. Besides offering stand-up classic arcade versions, ARTcade will boast a cocktail table where you can choose from 60 games, including rare Pac-Man variations.
Six craft beers on tap are priced at $5 each, including LandShark, Le Freak Green Flash, Blub, Shock Top, and Johnny Apple Seed cider. ARTcade will also have a full liquor bar for those of you wanting to throw back a kamikaze or Sex on the Beach (in keeping with the '80s theme).
Of course there's "art" at ARTcade, and the walls will display works by local artists. The inaugural show, "More than 2," will feature work by artist Nestor Paz. Art displays will change out every three to four weeks.
ARTcade will open daily at 7 p.m. beginning Friday, July 11. During the opening celebration, DJ Ray Milian will spin '80s and indie tunes from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.
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