Bad Machines Esports Bar – Cary / Durham, NC, USA

North Carolina’s first esports-themed bar, offering free gameplay with drink or food purchase and a stage for exhibitions and live match-up events. Located at 216 Nottingham Drive, Bad Machines is Cary’s first full-fledged esports bar—an inventive blend of competitive gaming, craft drinks, and live entertainment all under one roof.

This isn’t your typical bar. Here, gaming is part of the atmosphere—TVs and tables double as multiplayer setups, and guests can jump into matches of Mario Kart, Smash Bros., or other favorites completely free with any food or drink purchase.

Throughout the week, the space transforms into a local stage for esports showdowns—streaming matches from top local players and hosting casual community competitions across Smash, Rocket League, and more. Between matches, in-house band Turnabout Players keeps the energy high with nostalgic live renditions of classic game soundtracks like Zelda and Street Fighter—no cover required.

Open Wednesday through Sunday with extended evening hours, Bad Machines brings together good drinks, pixel-powered nostalgia, and a welcoming crowd of gamers, musicians, and locals. It’s more than a bar—it’s a hub where gaming culture and nightlife fuse into something special.

Gaming at a glance:
📍 216 Nottingham Dr, Cary, NC 27511 (relocated from Durham)
🕒 Wed–Thu 5 PM–10 PM; Fri–Sat until Midnight; Sun until 10 PM; Mon–Tue closed
💻 PlayStation & Nintendo Switch stations at the bar and TVs around lounge
🏆 Hosts live exhibition matches (Smash, Rocket League, Fighting Games), retro music jams and watch parties
💲 Free to play when purchasing food or drink
🎯 Great for casual gaming, social nights, and esports fans in the Triangle area

📞+1 (919) 780‑7705
📧 Not publicly listed
🌐 https://www.mybadmachines.com/