SOMA Living July 2024

WHAT’S NEW AT THE BAIRD A NEW BOARD GAME CAFÉ SET TO OPEN IN SOUTH ORANGE, NEW JERSEY In 2023, Billy Koester and Jesse Johnson found themselves on a ship in the middle of the ocean, engrossed in playing board games. Their shared passion for board games sparked an idea - to open a board game shop. This idea is now taking shape with the upcoming launch of a new board game café at the Baird Center in South Orange, New Jersey. Operated by Billy Koester, Jesse Johnson of The Player Agency, and Jonathan Echeverry of Paper Plane Coffee Co, the café is slated to become a vibrant community hub in mid-July. Offering a range of activities, workshops, and a selection of beer, wine, food, and catering services, the café aims to be a welcoming space for game enthusiasts while fostering a sense of community and learning. “The café will be a place where people can come together, have fun, and create lasting memories through the joy of board games,” says Billy Koester.

Jesse Johnson adds, “We want to provide a space where both seasoned gamers and newcomers can feel welcome and enjoy the social aspect of playing games together.” The café’s menu will include sandwiches, salads, snacks, special coffee drinks, and refreshments made with fresh ingredients, along with a beer and wine menu. Prepare to embark on a new gaming adventure at this exciting board game café opening soon in South Orange, New Jersey.

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