Press Start: Glitch Bar & Games Room Is Bringing Retro Arcade Energy to Yates Street
Downtown Victoria is about to level up.
A long-vacant storefront at 759 Yates Street is powering back on, this time with joysticks, neon glow, nostalgic cocktails, and serious ‘90s energy. The former Yates Street Taphouse space is being transformed into Glitch Bar & Games Room, a high-energy retro arcade bar expanding from Vancouver.
After sitting empty for nearly two years (and several more since the Taphouse first closed in the 700-block), the space is finally buzzing again. Recent photos show the interior stripped back and mid-renovation, gearing up for a dramatic redesign including plans to activate a basement level that will create a sub-street experience within the venue.
If all goes according to plan, Glitch is expected to open this spring, bringing flashing lights and fresh energy back to the block.
What to Expect
Glitch has already built a loyal following on the Mainland, blending classic arcade gaming with the vibe of a sports bar and weekend dance floor. Victoria’s location is set to expand on that formula with:
- Retro arcade cabinets
- Sports viewing
- DJ nights & dancing
- Throwback-inspired cocktails
- Creative theme nights
- A few surprise twists unique to this location
With a 275-seat capacity, the space is designed to draw in both after-work crowds and late-night revelers looking for something a little different from the usual downtown circuit.
As Julien Chevallier puts it:
“Glitch Bar & Games Room is a high-energy retro arcade bar bringing 1990s and 2000s nostalgia to the heart of downtown at 759 Yates Street. Following the success of our Vancouver flagship, we are launching this 275-seat venue to offer a unique blend of arcade games, sports bar seating, dancing on weekends and nostalgic cocktails. We pride ourselves on a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere where legendary hospitality takes center stage.”
Between neon nostalgia, arcade classics, and a reimagined downtown space, Victoria will soon have a new place to press start.
Fueling the Game: Greek n’ Go Takes Over the Kitchen
And because no arcade night is complete without something crave-worthy to go with it, the kitchen will be managed by Greek n’ Go, bringing a fresh new food program into the space.
Expect a menu that blends bold comfort food with Mediterranean flair, think smash burgers, loaded and juicy, alongside classic Greek wraps, shash-style creations, and plenty of cool, late-night-friendly bites designed for sharing between rounds.
It’s a combination that leans playful but satisfying food you can grab between games, pair with nostalgic cocktails, or settle in with during a sports night. Smash burgers meet souvlaki energy, arcade chaos meets handheld wraps.
In other words: come for the joystick, stay for the Smashyy Burgers and More.
We’ll be watching for opening dates!
Find Glitch all over the internet:
Instagram: @glitchvictoria + @glitcheastvan
Website : www.glitchvic.com
