Café Artum has established itself as a creative hub that is home to a fine selection of wine, coffee and an extensive vinyl record collection.
Even after their move to Hockley, they still remain a staple for music lovers who come to experience great tunes, socialise within the community and enjoy a drink while they’re at it.
The café recently introduced a new activity to the menu, every other Thursday they open their doors for chess enthusiasts to come and play, making them one of many cafés to fuse dining and drinking with board games.
Though they’re not the first to do it, Café Artum creates an experience that’s hard to replicate: beautiful interior that makes you feel at home, a stellar selection of jazz, soul and hip hop throughout the evening and an unmistakable vibe that you can’t really catch anywhere else.
The chess event, Checkmate! Birmingham, is the brainchild of Coree Kirby, who had their first event earlier in the year in May. The intention is to engage with creatives who are passionate about chess, but also open the doors to novice players as well as those who show up mainly for the social aspect of the night.
The only entry requirement on the door is a £1 payment, and just like that you’re through the doors and into one of Birmingham’s best independents.
“The idea came as a way of supporting the community post-lockdown(s). It’s been a tough year and I know everyone has had their own personal struggles, hopefully Checkmate! will help make the way back to normality a bit easier!” – Coree Kirby
It’s hard to imagine that you wouldn’t enjoy your visit here, but as always, this city has something for everyone. So, if you don’t find yourself at Café Artum, there’s a growing list of board game cafes all over Birmingham, some you may be familiar with, others you’re about to discover:
Chance and Counters – Digbeth (@chanceandcounters)
They originally have their roots in Bristol, with their first cafe opening up in 2016. However, the three amigos Luke, Steve and Richard have grown a strong base of loyal game lovers in Digbeth. Most come to make a day out of cocktails and cluedo as they stay open from noon until 11pm, making it perfect for brunch or fun night out.
Sliced and Diced – Selly Oak (@sliced.n.diced.bham)
Situated right on the Bristol Road, Sliced and Diced is a great place to check out if you’re a student in the Selly Oak area. They are home to a community which encourages you to make new friends via their online message board, or their cork board in the cafe – if you’re looking for players to join your game, this the perfect place to start!
Meeple Mayhem – Ladywood (@meeplemayhemuk)
A small cafe tucked away off the Hagley Road, Meeple Mayhem offers an impressive library of over 300 games to play. It’s perfect for those local to the Ladywood and wider Edgbaston area, and equally accessible by public transport as it’s just a few minutes walk from the nearest bus stop. If you’re looking for a central spot, but also wanting to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city centre, this is the place to be.
Now that there’s a few more places on your radar, get yourself out there!