Mayhem's Bookstore & Board Game Café Logo

Mayhem's Bookstore & Board Game Café

4.9(44 reviews)

What people love here...

Personalized Recommendations by James

Multiple guests highlight James by name, praising his thoughtful and reliable book suggestions.

"James was incredibly knowledgeable about books and took the time to help me find the perfect book for my grandson." (Review 9)
"The book selection and recommendations from James are always to be trusted." (Review 15)

Key Themes from Reviews

Staff Friendliness & ExpertisePositive

Customers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff for personalized recommendations and enthusiastic assistance.

""The staff are amazing and are truly passionate about comic books and board games..." (Review 4)"
""James was incredibly knowledgeable about books and took the time to help me find the perfect book..." (Review 9)"

About Mayhem's Bookstore & Board Game Café

About Mayhem’s Bookstore & Board Game Café

Nestled in the heart of Lancaster, PA, Mayhem’s Bookstore & Board Game Café brings together the best of a cozy café, comic book store, and board game club under one roof. Whether you’re on the hunt for a rare used book, craving a perfectly brewed latte, or eager to challenge friends to your favorite strategy game, Mayhem’s has you covered. This unique Coffee shop, Coffee stand, and Tea house hybrid invites bibliophiles, board gamers, families, and casual coffee sippers to experience a welcoming community hub that celebrates creativity, connection, and fun.

A Cozy, Inviting Atmosphere

From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll notice the open yet intimate layout that customers rave about. Warm lighting, comfortable seating nooks, and gentle background music set the tone for hours of reading, studying, or socializing. The walls are lined with shelves of graphic novels, manga, and used treasures, while communal tables beckon groups to linger over coffee and conversation. Regular visitors describe the vibe as “open and cozy/comfortable” and “super cool and calming,” making it the perfect spot to escape the bustle of everyday life.

Expert Staff & Personalized Service

At Mayhem’s, staff friendliness isn’t just a talking point—it’s the cornerstone of the experience. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable team for going the extra mile with tailored recommendations. James, in particular, has earned a reputation for thoughtful book suggestions and genuine enthusiasm. As one customer noted, “James was incredibly knowledgeable about books and took the time to help me find the perfect book for my grandson.” Whether you’re exploring new comic series, hunting for a classic novel, or seeking a fresh board game challenge, the staff’s passion shines through every suggestion.

Extensive Book & Game Selection

Book lovers and gamers alike will find themselves spoiled for choice at Mayhem’s. The Book store stocks everything from contemporary fiction and used paperbacks to collectible comic books and graphic novels. Meanwhile, the Board game club side boasts shelves overflowing with strategy games, family-friendly titles, and beloved party games. Visitors have remarked on the “great collection of graphic novels and very affordable game program,” and many return again and again to discover new titles. Whether you’re a solo reader, a comic aficionado, or part of a gaming meetup, you’ll uncover treasures around every corner.

Irresistible Bakery & Drink Menu

More than just a Coffee store, Mayhem’s doubles as a delightful Bakery and Tea house. Sip on handcrafted lattes, specialty hot chocolates, and a rotating selection of loose-leaf teas while indulging in house-baked treats. The banana loaf, carrot cake, and rich brownies come highly recommended by regulars: “Loved the banana loaf, heck yeah, dude,” reads one review, while another adds, “I’ll highly recommend getting a coffee and some carrot cake…” Each pastry is freshly made, pairing perfectly with a smooth pour-over or frothy cappuccino for a midday pick-me-up or afternoon reward.

Flexible Pricing & Great Value

Whether you stay for an hour or an entire day, Mayhem’s offers pricing options to fit every schedule and budget. Choose a single-day pass for unlimited game play, or unlock extra perks with a monthly subscription that covers table fees and grants early access to special events. One delighted guest shared, “The prices are great for spending a day,” and another praised the “multiple ways to cover your table cost… monthly subscription (which comes with other perks!).” These affordable, transparent pricing plans make it easy to dive into hours of gaming or reading without worrying about the clock.

Family-Friendly Fun

Parents and caregivers will appreciate Mayhem’s dedicated kids’ corner, a thoughtfully designed play area stocked with age-appropriate toys and games. Families find it a safe haven where younger guests can explore and entertain themselves while adults enjoy a well-crafted brew or browse the shelves. “Our children played in the kids corner for a bit,” reported one visitor, and another remarked, “This is a great place to bring friends and family! It is also child friendly…” With designated family-friendly zones and a welcoming staff, Mayhem’s ensures that guests of all ages feel included and comfortable.

Commitment to Safety & Respect

Mayhem’s takes customer comfort and well-being seriously. In response to feedback, the management has implemented a clear code of conduct for all team members and guests. Regular training sessions reinforce respectful interactions, and a dedicated manager is always on hand to address concerns. By fostering an atmosphere of mutual courtesy and vigilance, Mayhem’s maintains the safe, inclusive environment that our patrons cherish.

Visit Us Today

Whether you’re seeking a quiet corner to read your next favorite novel, a lively afternoon of board gaming, or simply a delicious coffee paired with a freshly baked treat, Mayhem’s Bookstore & Board Game Café in Lancaster, PA, has it all. Come explore our shelves, challenge your friends, and taste the bakehouse delights that have customers returning time and again. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Categories

About This Business

Pets

  • Dogs allowed outside

Crowd

  • Groups
  • Family-friendly
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Transgender safespace

Other

  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Identifies as disabled-owned

Parking

  • Paid parking lot
  • Paid parking garage
  • Paid street parking

Children

  • Good for kids

Payments

  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Amenities

  • Wi-Fi
  • Restroom
  • Gender-neutral restroom

Offerings

  • Coffee
  • Small plates
  • Vegan options
  • Prepared foods
  • Vegetarian options

Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Casual
  • Trendy

Highlights

  • Great coffee
  • Great tea selection

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom

Dining options

  • Dessert
  • Seating

Service options

  • Dine-in
  • Takeout

From the business

  • Identifies as disabled-owned

Contact Information

102 W King St
Lancaster, PA 17603
United States of America

Website: Visit Website

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Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars

Based on 44 reviews

Review data

5 star reviews

98%

4 star reviews

0%

3 star reviews

0%

2 star reviews

0%

1 star reviews

2%

Working Hours

Monday:
9AM-9PM
Tuesday:
9AM-9PM
Wednesday:
9AM-9PM
Thursday:
9AM-9PM
Friday:
9AM-10PM
Saturday:
10AM-10PM
Sunday:
10AM-7PM

Location Map