F1 Arcade is the right hideout for racing lovers – and you’ll drink and drive
Drinking and driving in the real world is obviously never… and we emphasise, never, acceptable. But at F1 Arcade, Formula One fans can happily sip on a beer while racing mates without the consequences
F1 Arcade had me fully immersed in the racing experience(Image: )
I walked into F1 Arcade expecting a fun night out and quickly realised it was going to be far more competitive than planned.
From the moment you step inside, the place buzzes with energy – engines roaring through the speakers, massive screens lighting up the space, and a room full of people fully convinced they can shave another half-second off their lap time. It’s lively without being overwhelming, slick without feeling try-hard.
The simulators were the main event, and they absolutely delivered. Each setup felt immersive without being intimidating – responsive steering wheels, solid pedals, and tracks that reward confidence while instantly exposing overconfidence.
I started out sensibly, focusing on clean laps and smooth corners, then abandoned all restraint within minutes. Racing alongside friends adds an extra layer of chaos and comedy, especially when someone clips a corner and spirals dramatically off track.
Between races, we hovered around the screens comparing lap times, replaying questionable overtakes, and offering advice that was mostly unhelpful.
What really stood out was how well the food and drink fit into the experience. This wasn’t an arcade with a token menu tacked on – it felt like a proper night out that just happened to involve racing. We ordered burgers, and they were exactly what you want mid-evening – juicy, indulgent, and satisfying without slowing you down.
They arrived hot, generously filled, and sturdy enough to survive being eaten between races, which felt like a small but important design win.
The cocktails were equally on point. We went for Cosmopolitans, and they were crisp, well-balanced, and dangerously easy to drink.
There’s something particularly satisfying about sipping a cold cosmo while replaying a dramatic spin-out or celebrating a surprise podium finish. The bar service was quick but relaxed, which meant we could settle into the rhythm of racing, eating, drinking, and immediately lining up for another go. This is the only place you can drink and drive with it being acceptable.
By the end of the night, my voice was slightly hoarse from cheering and my competitive streak had been thoroughly exercised.
F1 Arcade strikes a rare balance – playful without being gimmicky, polished without feeling formal. I came for the racing, stayed for the burgers and cosmos, and left already thinking about a rematch.
