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Ember Rest rents any board game and a table for $7 a day in Martinez

The game shop at 649 Main St., Suite 101, opens four days a week and charges one price to play anything in its library, all day.

By Walnut Creek Times
Published · 2 min read

Editorial illustration of friends playing a tabletop game in a welcoming game shop
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Ember Rest, a new tabletop game shop located at 649 Main St., Suite 101, in downtown Martinez, is offering a unique gaming experience for local residents and visitors. For just $7 per person, patrons can enjoy unlimited access to the shop’s extensive game library, which includes both familiar titles and high-end campaign games like Gloomhaven and Kingdom Death, all day long.

The shop has quickly become a popular spot for families and gamers looking for a rainy day activity. Ember Rest’s diverse collection of games and cozy playrooms provide an ideal environment for friends and families to spend quality time together. The shop’s setup as a place to sit down and play, rather than just a retail space, offers a refreshing change from typical board game stores, making it a go-to destination for those seeking a community gaming experience.

Ember Rest is nestled in the heart of downtown Martinez, listed as an entertainment venue in the Downtown Martinez & Co. directory. The shop’s unique concept and inviting atmosphere have made it a welcome addition to the downtown area, complementing the local shops and restaurants that anchor the blocks around Main and Escobar streets. The shop’s hours are designed to cater to weekend gamers, with Thursday and Friday evening hours from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 1 to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m.

In addition to its gaming offerings, Ember Rest sells its own merchandise, including a Downtown D&D 2026 artist-series tee and hoodie, both featuring artwork by Skinner. The merchandise, part of a limited run of 100 each, was available for pre-order and shipped on May 6. For those interested in booking a table or room, or for more information, the shop can be reached at 925-387-8179 or via email at emberrestmartinez@gmail.com.

Looking ahead, Ember Rest plans to continue hosting weekly tournaments and role-playing sessions, providing ongoing opportunities for the community to engage in tabletop gaming. The shop’s management encourages residents to visit and experience the unique gaming atmosphere firsthand. For updates and to stay informed about upcoming events, residents can follow Ember Rest on their website or social media platforms.

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