Playification bars

“I think it is a new offering for adults that is not focused on drinking,” Paul Quinn, co-founder of Super Social tells VML Intelligence. “The drinking culture seems to be changing but people still want a good night out. This is where the term competitive socializing has come from.” Opened in December 2024, Super Social has already grown in popularity in its first few months.

Meanwhile, at Board Dublin, expect to find an A-Z of board games, retro game nights and bingo. Open since January 2024, the self-proclaimed “bar specializing in low and no alcohol” is a cafe-meets-bar-meets-informal event space. Patrons are enticed by the inviting ambience and can find a low-key meet up space with a focus on intentional connection without alcohol being the central focus for the social gathering. After all, according to research from Kantar’s Food and Beverage report from April 2025, 71% of gen Zers are making a conscious effort to cut back on their alcohol consumption.

London’s popular neon-lit shuffleboard bar, Electric Shuffle has made its debut in Chicago in May. Its retro decor and ‘grammable set up make for an aesthetic throwback to bring young and old partiers together for a timeless game. Food and beverages are available, as well as large party spaces, allowing for hours of tournaments and friendly competition around the tables.