Personally I don’t believe this place deserves the one star reviews. I guess everyone is entitled to their own opinion. It’s a really nice spot to be. Love the option of board games and the ambiance is great. The employees I’ve encountered are so kind as well! The drinks are great especially the lavender lemonade. My favorite thing to eat is the turkey sandwich!

Coral Sword is a fun coffee shop with tons of board games for a great group outing. The interior is dark but there is natural light by the tables in the front offering a study space as well. Several people were in there quietly working away when I went in just before noon.They offer pastries from Cake and Bacon including a savory jalapeño cheese scone that was incredible.For coffee, I ordered an iced lavender flat white with oat milk (I wanted less milk than a latte) and it was delicious. Definitely up to par for coffee. The barista was super sweet.They also offer an eclectic beer selection and other food items. I was just there for to-go so didnt try everything out.Parking is a little sparse but sometimes thats part of living in a big city.I would definitely come back for board games with friends.

Will definitely be going back.Recently visited for the first time and the staff was very super friendly and helpful! I had chicken tenders (they were more like popcorn chicken) and some fries and they were decent enough. Overall, the experience and atmosphere were by far the best part and we had fun just being there, snacking, and playing our game.If you haven’t been you’ll definitely enjoy it when you do.

The best advice I got for DMing was that when someone asks to do something impossible, you dont tell them no, you ask them how do you make it happen?Coral Sword is like that. On top of being a fantastic coffee shop and local game store, when you ask them can we do ____? theyre always ready to try and make it happen. The staff want to create an environment for relaxing and playing games, and they do it spectacularly. One of the most fantastic places in Houston.

I had latte with cinnamon on top. Only get cinnamon if you really like it but other than the cinnamon it was good. I had a pastry a as well and it was flaky and soft maybe needed to be a little warmer but it had the right amount of chocolate.

My favorite coffee shop in all of Houston! The owner and the staff are some of the friendliest and most considerate people Ive met in my life. They truly have an amazing community built around their shop, and welcome anyone and everyone. Cozy place to get work done with big tables and plenty of outlets. Music is great and so are the drinks and snacks!

Quiet during afternoons. Good place to get work done. They have cold sub sandwiches too with cookies, and other bread treats.

Has to be one of the coolest Game Stores Ive been too. The atmosphere, the staff, everything, I love this store and there isnt much I wouldnt do to have one of these in San Antonio. Every time I visit Ill be sure to stop by this fantastic Cafe. 11/10

Great find.Definitely worth a revisit.This coffee shop has an eclectic vibe.From the music playing in the background, to the art on the walls, to the diverse customers that give this local dive support.Menu is simple.At the time of this review, no blended drinks were offered.Had a mocha latte. It was solid. Not too sweet and the coffee wasn’t too strong. Well balanced.What I valued about this coffee shop is the space it offers. The outside can be very deceiving. There are multiple rooms and nooks for you to choose from. You’re sure to find the space your looking for. Whether your looking to study, work, or focus on something, there is a space for that.If you want to hear music and be stimulated with more activity, the bar is a good spot to park it.Customer service is far beyond average.Friendly and service oriented.There are literally dozens of board games to play if you want to make it a social outing.There is also some seating outside.Lastly, make sure you have the Shazam app on your phone because I guarantee your going to use it.Nice find. Nothing negative to say at all.

Friendly barista, delicious espresso with lots of earthy tones, oat milk, and I think it was under $3 before tip.

Visited for the first time this weekend. Such a neat little spot. And in East End! Not much else around, but I’m sure it’ll happen soon.Great beer selection. Lots of fun games from which to choose. And a whole video game lair with live streaming! Very cool.Staff was incredibly nice, and helpful with beer recs. Will have to go back and try the coffee.

The coffee is excellent, my favorite in Houston. The baristas are really fun and helpful, the atmosphere is great and the free games are amazing. One of my favorite places, just be sure to get there by 10 on Saturday or Sunday to be sure youll have a table.

Very cool place with a lot of board games. I had a salad and fried chicken breast. It was not delicious but overall I had a great time. The staff is super

Their can only be one coolest place in Houston. Great coffee, twitch stream parlor and bar oh and the barber shop is righteous too.

Used to be my go to cafe to study or to play board games, haven’t been in over a year, came in today, they removed about 8-10 seats and the backroom which was another 20, there was no space walked right back out. You would think since Texas is wide open they can reopen that back room and/or add more seats.

Courteous staff, great coffee. I had a mocha very good.

Such a cool place to hang! The dine in area is reserved for members only during the restrictions, but I would definitely check it out if youre in the area! Good drinks and food to snack on while you play a game! Also a nice place to buy some games too!

Absolutely loved this little place. We had coffee and drinks, a couple pastries, played board games and relaxed. Or oldest son works there a few hours a week, and had always wanted us to visit. The staff is super nice too.

Great little coffee shop! Usually have fresh baked goods. I love the old fashioned donut! Looks like a good happy hour, but I have yet to give it a try. Great beers on tap though!Right next to the barber shop, where you can snag a beer or coffee while you wait.

This is my go to coffee shop! i always get the roasted almond latte with oat milk and cinnamon on top. it never disappoints!❤️

Very cool space. Nicely set up for all manner of table top gaming, and a genuinely nice atmosphere to chill in.

Its still new and still evolving, but I feel like this place has enormous potential. The location its in is growing every year, the staff is very knowledgeable about their food, beverages, and merchandise, and the local beers are on point. This is EXACTLY the kind of place Ive been looking for in a cafe/bar. Kudos to you for bringing such colorfulness to the neighborhood!

Great beer. Great coffee. Great selection of board games for sale, usually the top selling games new and old. Magic packs as well as amenities. Food. Friendly service. Helpful staff. Sandy is always a big help when my wife and I are choosing a new board game to play. I love living so close to this establishment.

This place is really nice to study or play games at! The food and drinks are really tasty, and the people are so friendly. The patio is also extremely relaxing. Highly recommend.

Coffee and board games. Whats not to love? Staff is extremely cordial. Bring your own games or pick for their selection. Parking is a bit limited so pool up if you have a lot of people.

Drinks were great. Game boxes in the shelf for games to play in store were empty... not sure what thats about.

Coffee art on point. Super fun place. Excellent staff, coffee and tea is delicious. Always a great time here!

This may be my new favorite cafe near University of Houston. 😬 They have everything, coffee, food, beer, wine, and games! Cool laid back vibe, definitely will be back to hang out or study

Thoughtfully designed spot with tables conducive to staying awhile and playing one of the many games available. Beautifully made and poured Matcha Latte.

Great friendly people, staff is wonderful, and good selection at the right price.Only complaint would be parking

I cannot help but be biased because this place encompasses so many things I love: coffee, donuts, and board games. If that is your thing you definitely need to check it out. They have too many games to count stacked across the walls to try out or even purchase. Iced coffee was good. Donuts made by morning star were top notch. The vibrant mural outside draws you in and youll want to hang out for hours.

Great space with board games.Higher prices, look to be Houston average.Good comic themed shop. Product is pretty good. Service was okay.

Really neat atmosphere. Cool games to play in here. I feel a little pricy for coffee but I don’t drink coffee all the time so maybe I am a bad judge. Either way stop in here and check it out!

Most recent, your able to dine in, if youre a member. The rest can dine outside on some covered wood benches. Is not so bad, but inside is more enjoyable.Great customer service, clean restrooms and you can find all kinds of gameboards.

Cool concepts of the shop. The only unfortunate thing is that you can get board games just about anywhere and the coffee itself was pretty hit and miss. The environment itself and the people working there are fantastic though. If youre looking for a place with a cool ambiance and very friendly service this is a great place.

Great selection of board games for purchase and even better lattes! Muffins werent my favorite but I dont eat muffins much. They were fresh tho! The barista was very friendly and patient too. Patio seating only currently, accepted cash or card and didnt have to wait long at all.

Disappointed in my first visit. I have been driving by at night and I have noticed the majority of people sitting outside at the picnic tables. I’ve been wanting to check out this place for a while. I finally came out for morning coffee and they didn’t let me sit inside. I had a mask on. The signs say inside sitting reserved for dine in only customers however I guess I am not considered dine in appropriate. They don’t have any breakfast sandwiches to buy. The coffee list is minimal selection as well. So, needless to say I don’t recommend and will not return for business. You can’t enjoy the inside atmosphere as you are required to sit outside with view of Telephone rd.

My husband and I have been coming to Coral Sword regularly for about 2 years now. We live about 45 minutes away and sometimes with traffic it takes us about an hour and a half to get there. That being said, we try to make it to FNM most weeks and if we miss a Friday we are usually there on Sunday. We absolutely love Coral Sword for the awesome staff and community, super fun games and delicious coffee!In regards to COVID, the staff really made safety a number one priority and I have never once felt unsafe or that they were compromising the health and safety of others to make an extra dollar. During the freeze, they literally opened their doors since they had power just to let people get some warmth, refill water (until that was a safety concern of course), charge their phones and use the restroom all no purchase necessary. I have NEVER respected a business so much!Thank you Coral Sword for being so much more than an awesome coffee shop!-Bria

Coffee shop that’s super family friendly

Not bad food was decent but staff was so friendly it made up for it

Knowledgeable and friendly staff, tasty coffee and a very good selection of games. All of the notable, top selling board games, along with a Magic : The Gathering equipment, and a limited selection of Dungeon and Dragon books. Excited to spend some time here and participate in some weekly Magic and DnD events.

Great staff, you must try the nitro Thai tea. Great game selection.

UPDATED:Coral Sword is changing their hours to 9am 7 days a week. Very disappointed... they were the only place in EaDo/East End open early and definitely have the best coffee. My search for a coffee spot continues.__________________________________________________________Since I went to Italy last summer, I have really struggled to find good coffee. Coral Sword is by far the best cappuccino I have found in Houston! Its very smooth and the milk to coffee ratio is correct!The venue is nice as well. A big bright window in the front, and plenty of indoor seating. Plus, loads of games to play or purchase.Breakfast options consist of donuts and tacos.And maybe the best part.... they open at 7am Mon - Sat. In EaDo, this is a big deal because most coffee places dont open until 10 or 12.The only downside is a couple of times I have arrived after their scheduled opening and they werent open. But they are still new so Im sure theyll figure out the staffing quickly.

I prefer Blacksmith but still love this place

Probably one of my favorite coffee shops to go to. Coffee was really good and the inside of the coffee shop has a nice cozy vibe.

Awesome staff! Real good coffee and lots of board games! Come check it out

Great coffee and French toast sticks

Neat little spot. You cant sit inside unless you are an organized group till the end of the month so not to clutter the place with covid not the outside tables are open and for this time of year thats not a bad thing. A decent selection of coffees, teas and beer a d a pretty decent playlist to read to.

They have a very warm culture and community, every employee I have interacted with has been pleasant and they take Food precautions very seriously.

Friendly staff and great drinks. Weve also bought several games here and the staff has been awesome at giving us their thoughts on the best games to check out.

This is a great place in the east end for coffee and getting work done. I put off visiting this place due to it being a gaming spot.Recently decided to give it a try since I was near Telephone and didnt want to visit the usual Downtown coffee spots. The limited parking spot nearly tuned me away, but after a few minutes I decided to go back and maybe park in the back. The coffee is good, plenty of space for people who need to get in a little work or just chill with a good book... love the space near the big widow. And if your into games then you would love this place. I didnt try any of the food since I had taken a big breakfast earlier. But the coffee is as good as any of the other coffee shop in the Third Ward/Downtown area. So if you live in the Hobby/Gulfgate/ East End part of the city give them a try. They use local roasters like most of the shops in town, so you pretty much know your getting good coffee beans...I hade a flat white and a cortado.

Gives you a modern harry potter feel its a great hidden gem. Houstians who like board games will for sure make this there number one stop. It gives other places a run for there money with the art work. Owner is super friendly and puts love into everything he whips up.

Great coffee, great food, great service, and great atmosphere!! I came to work on finals and it wasn’t packed at all.

Awesome place to visit, Ive gone many times for drinks, coffee, hanging out with friends and buying D&D or MTG products and supplies. They also sell board games and sometimes they have 6packs of micro beers, I think they had wine bottles once too. COVID has limited my visits to Coral Sword, but they are still open for carryout and limited in store dining/shopping! Definitely worth checking out, they always have a new selection of brews to choose from and their cafe selections are awesome, they will sweeten your drinks to your liking. They usually dont have soy milk for some reason, but that doesnt matter much. I hope to go back once COVID is under control.

Great place. Their coffee is great. I always love a good latte with art in it. I also love the fact they have tons of board games. There isnt much of a variety of snack options, but its okay.

Such friendly service! The coffee is FANTASTIC I could marry the beans. The breakfast sandwich was sexy and I had a whole existential party in my mouth. So good.

Awesome spot! Lots of cool people and the food is good too! Super extensive game library!

This is my new out of town spot in Houston! Love it, perfect nerdy with a splash of artsy vibe. Their mochas are fantastic and their customer service is awesome. Perfect place to come grab coffee in the morning, answer emails, study or just hang out. They also have a great selection of board games and books if youre looking to unplug.

Id gladly make a wager that this is the best coffee in Houston. If not the best, its one of the best.Cool environnent to come and just be you.

Clean, friendly, with friends playing a board game would be a blast. Will come back soon.

Lavender latte was so soooo good! Thank you!

Fantastic concept: coffee, beer, board games, snacks. Gotta go!

Great little spot. Seems to contain the same popular coffee options as most other coffee places with the same prices but the board games and decor give it a leg up in my book over the average coffee spot.

A chill place to hang, get a bite and play some board games. They have big tables for larger games and some delicious themed ice drinks. I got a mana potion and throughly enjoyed it.

Really nice and unexpected telephone road experience.

Great quality coffee and superb customer service in a fun environment! Love this place!

Coral Sword is bar-none the best card shop in Houston. The community is competitive, but friendly. The coffee and mixed drinks are above par for a coffee specialty store. The beer selection rotates often, and has something for everyone. The free game wall is well-stocked, with hits like Pandemic and Secret Hitler. The owner and staff are friendly and appreciative of every customer, and make a significant effort to make everyone feel welcome. I cant recommend this place enough.

I absolutely adore this place. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and they have vegan options! They have almond/coconut milk alternatives for drinks, and carry vegan and nonvegan donuts from Morningstar. The free game selection is great, we played Cards Against Humanity and had a blast. The atmosphere is comfortable and cozy without feeling cramped. They also have a separate room for tabletop games like DnD, and a wide selection of games to purchase. This may be my favorite cafe in Houston!

Nice hipster vibe place deep in Eastside neighborhood. Coffee, beer & wine, old school board games, and tattoo parlor all under one roof. Adjacent to old school barber place. Worth checking it out!

Free board games and the coffee/sandwiches are the bomb. Also partly owned by Ming Chen from Kevin Smiths Comic Book Men. Dope spot

Relaxing environment, friendly staff and plenty of board games!

Pizza isnt bad at all, but itd be nice to see them expand their menu.Check out the prices before checking out. Some items very pricey. Wonderful atmosphere.Bring your wit, your competitive side, and your 20 sided die.

The coffee is good and they have a bunch of board games to play.

This is such a cool little spot!! We first visited this place about a year and a half to 2 years ago. My sister heard about its opening. It has a relaxed vibe and cool decor. There are board games that you can play while you are there, and even some to purchase. The food and drinks are super tasty as well.

This place has an awesome atmosphere. My husband and I came and grabbed coffee and played games for a while. It was quiet, and is an easy place to relax for a few hours. They also had vegan treats, which is always a five star for me. I love how many games they have to choose from, I would come back to play more of them.

Better than campesino in my opinion

Great place to play boardgames, Magic:the Gathering, or just relax with friends and grab a drink and some tasty food. Awesome people working there really go out of their way to make you feel welcome!

One of my favorite coffee shops in Houston! I love the ambiance and the fact that they have donuts pizza and board games. Need I say more?

I love this place to hang out with friends and play some games. Great Cane Sugar Latte.

Fantastic coffee spot on Telephone. Part of a barbershop and tattoo parlor for the trifecta. Great selection of tabletop games for purchase too. They have beer and wine in the cooler and a deck out front for when the Houston weather isnt behaving badly.

Dont be spooked by the surroundings. Went there once with my daughter. She was scared at first. Then now she wants to go back. The drink she got tasted like Orchata. She jacked mine. Get the wings. Pretty good. Would be good if they stayed opened till 2am.

Super cool East End coffee shop to play table top games.

So... Where do I start. This place is built for the gamer types. Not video games...D&D and other table top players. They have a huge selection of craft alcohol and a very well laid out selection of non alcoholic as well. The place is MADE for the sit back. The vibe is a unique atmosphere. Highly recommend this place.

This place feels like home to me. The staff is friendly and the coffee is amazing!

Delcious matcha lattes!Indoor seating requires a $15 minimum, but its understandable since local businesses are being impacted by covid. Support your local businesses!

Great place, we will definitely be going back

Trendy cafe in Fifth Ward, Houston on Telephone Road

Great coffee, great service and friendly staff with very reasonable prices.

First time visiting. My daughter and I love to try new coffee joints. We didnt know what to expect. Its a great concept place to relax and enjoy gaming (old school) or just the company of whom ever you are with. The young women working the counter was very friendly and went over the menu with us. We were looking to try any cold coffee they had. She explained the difference between what they offered and we settled on iced vanilla lattes. Let just say this was the best iced coffee I have ever had. We will definitely be back.

Games everywhere. With people sprinkled about.

Enjoyed the patio seating. Nice selection of caffinated drinks and teas.

Great place for anyone looking to get a drink (both alcoholic and non alcoholic) and enjoys playing games. They have a wide selection of board games to pick from that you can play with, and if you want to get a bit more involved they do weekly events for various popular games such as super smash bros and Magic the Gathering. The food isnt anything special and the prices are a tad higher than normal, but you come here to play games first and eat second. Staff is friendly and the place is always well kept. Great place to have fun with friends with some food on the side.

I am in love with this place. Chill place to have some drinks and play games with friends. Great tea lattes! Stopped here while we were on a trip to Houston and so happy we found this gem! Would make this our regular spot if we lived here.

Great place to hangout. Very cool concept that blends people from all walks of life. This is a late night coffee shop that also serves alcohol. You can bring your own board/card games or They offer a selection of easily 200 different free games to choose from. The vibe is very retro and chill, almost like walking into a time warp. The establishment is still waiting on their liquor license so they currently cannot sell, but they should get it soon.

Awesome concept and great community. Help these local heroes by paying them a visit, maybe grabbing a brew or a sweet if thats your thing. Better yet, bring friends and hunker down for a (heated) board game!

All i can say is get the nitro thai tea.

Amazing LGS!

I love this place beyond words. I go here to study every week and their staff is the friendliest. Coffee = bomb. Best environment to study or just hang out with friends.

This little shop has so much positive energy in it, its practically seeping out the door and onto the street. The almond tea latte with oat milk I had was the bomb. 🖤💛💜

Cool concept and vibe. Being a frequent cafe goer, I would say that prices (for coffee drinks) here were way above average... Specially considering the fact that the place is in the middle of no where. If the drink prices are a bit more affordable in the future itll make next trip here feel like its worth it.