Not Just For The Bored: Inside Bored. Cafe

InkSlingers
Jun 28
4 min read

By Cheong Car Men

DAMANSARA JAYA — A new cafe, Bored. Board Game, Cafe & etc, has officially opened in Damansara Jaya in April 2025. It’s a place where friends can hang out, play board games — but also a quiet space for people who work from home to get some work done in the cozy co-working space.

Bored.’s environment setting. Image Credits: Cheong Car Men.

Stepping into Bored., customers are greeted by a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of the iconic Friends sitcom. But this cafe offers more than just nostalgia — it’s a space designed to nurture real human connections in an era dominated by digital screens. Bored. is a cozy spot where board game lovers can dive into classics like Uno and Scrabble — games that bring back fond childhood memories. But it’s not just about the old favourites; the cafe has a diverse library of more than 50 different board games to explore. For those drawn to digital gaming, Nintendo and PlayStation consoles are available as well.

We spoke to Chris Chin, the chef and one of the shareholders behind Bored., explaining the inspiration behind the concept. “Many people today feel isolated, not because of their surroundings, but because of how they perceive the world,” he explained. “Our goal is to create a space for real conversations, real family time and shared experiences.”

More Than Just Games

The name “Bored.” plays on the idea that boredom can be a starting point for creativity and connection. At the heart of the cafe is board games — not just a side option but a main attraction.

Chin said unlike other typical board game cafes that simply provide games as an add-on, Bored. is built around the idea of fostering meaningful interactions. They also host weekly events like Mahjong Mondays, board game socials and even themed private dining murder mystery experiences, help bring people together and build a friendly, welcoming community for both casual and regular customers or players. Bored. partnered with comedian Russell Curtis to present a live stand-up comedy show called, “CHANGED ALREADY AH?!” The cafe also collaborated with a game designer Chia Pek Fann, who hosted an event featuring his board game, Breaking Demon’s Contract.

To keep things comfortable, Bored. offers a menu of comfort food, drinks and easy-to-eat snacks that are easy to enjoy without interrupting gameplay sessions or work. The menu is pork-free and alcohol-free, making it accessible to a wider range of dietary preferences. “The goal is to provide comfort food that enhances the experience without being too messy or distracting,” said Chin. While outside food is not allowed, Bored. has partnered with Nichole’s Cakery Cafe located just downstairs — so orders can be made from the menu and delivered directly to the cafe. Chin added that special events, such as Dinner and Quiz Nights, feature themed food and drinks to enhance the overall experience.

The cafe features blackboard specials that occasionally change. Currently, the highlighted dishes are Chicken Lasagne (RM30) and Nasi Kerabu (RM23). Among the most popular main courses are Fish Stacker & Fries (RM29) and Signature Grilled Chicken with Pasta (RM33).

Clockwise from top left: Nasi Kerabu, Signature Grilled Chicken with Pasta, Chicken Lasagne, and Fish Stacker & Fries. Image Credits: Chris Chin.

Chin shared that one of the biggest challenges in running a multi-purpose space has been figuring out how to meet the needs for both remote workers looking for a quiet spot to focus, and casual customers or gamers who thrive in a more energetic atmosphere. Managing noise levels, arranging seating and scheduling events all require careful thoughts. Despite these hurdles, the cafe has successfully managed to create a welcoming environment where everyone can feel at ease.

A Place That Feels Just Right

The cafe’s ambience may become a bit noisy during peak hours, which may affect those looking for a quieter environment. For customers hoping to work quietly, seating near the gaming area might not be the best option. Power outlets are limited to certain areas of the cafe, which may affect seating options for those working remotely.

Compared to busier areas like SS15, the cafe benefits from more accessible parking and a less congested location, which can be an advantage for customers. The atmosphere varies throughout the week — weekday mornings tend to be quieter, attracting those seeking a focused work environment, while weekends typically draw groups looking to socialise and engage in games.

Cozy area to play tabletop games. Image Credits: Cheong Car Men.

The launch of Bored. highlights a growing trend of cafes adapting to meet varied community needs. By blending opportunities for social interaction with spaces designed for focused work, the place shows how modern cafes are evolving beyond traditional roles. In doing so, it offers a setting where visitors can both unwind and connect, contributing to the changing dynamic of local social spaces.