Dave & Buster’s combines arcade fun with restaurant dining, and understanding the menu prices helps you budget for both entertainment and meals. When you walk into a Dave & Buster’s, the flashing lights and game sounds can easily distract you from the food side of things, but the kitchen serves a full range of American classics that are worth planning for. This guide breaks down the current Dave & Buster’s menu with prices so you can order smart and keep some credits for the games.
Dave & Buster’s Menu With Prices Overview
Before we get into specific items, it helps to know that Dave & Buster’s pricing can vary slightly by location. Urban stores and those in high-rent districts often charge a dollar or two more than suburban locations. The prices below reflect the typical national average as of early 2025, but always check your local store’s digital menu for the exact figure.
You will also notice that the menu is split into clear categories: Starters, Entrees, Burgers, Pizza, and Desserts. There is also a separate drink menu and a kids menu. For this article, we focus on the food prices, but we will touch on drink specials where they affect your total bill.
Appetizers And Starters
Starters are designed for sharing, but the portions are generous enough that two people could make a meal out of them. The most popular starter is the traditional Wings, which come in orders of 10, 20, or 30 pieces.
- Traditional Wings (10 pcs) – $13.99
- Traditional Wings (20 pcs) – $24.99
- Boneless Wings (10 pcs) – $12.99
- Queso Dip with Chips – $9.49
- Spinach Artichoke Dip – $10.99
- Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese – $8.99
- Fried Pickles – $8.49
- Buffalo Cauliflower – $9.99 (vegetarian option)
If you are on a budget, the Pretzel Bites are the best value. They come with a side of warm beer cheese and are usually enough for two people to snack on while playing games. The Queso Dip is also a safe bet, though it is not spicy despite what the menu suggests.
Burgers And Sandwiches
Burgers are cooked to order, and you can choose your doneness level. The standard burger comes with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a brioche bun. Fries are included with every burger, which is a good deal considering the prices.
- Classic Cheeseburger – $14.99
- Bacon Cheddar Burger – $16.49
- Mushroom Swiss Burger – $15.99
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich – $13.49
- Crispy Chicken Sandwich – $13.99
- Philly Cheesesteak – $15.49
One thing to note is that the Bacon Cheddar Burger is often on the “2 for $25” lunch special during weekdays. If you are visiting before 4 PM, ask about that deal. It can save you about $8 compared to ordering two burgers separately.
Entrees And Plates
For a full dinner, the entree section offers steaks, chicken, and seafood. These plates come with two sides, so you do not need to order extra food unless you are very hungry.
- Grilled Chicken Alfredo – $16.99
- Baby Back Ribs (Half Rack) – $17.99
- Baby Back Ribs (Full Rack) – $22.99
- New York Strip Steak – $24.99
- Fish and Chips – $15.49
- Chicken Tenders Platter – $13.99
- Blackened Salmon – $19.99
The ribs are the star of the entree menu. They are slow-cooked and slathered in a sweet BBQ sauce. The half rack is plenty for one person, but if you are sharing, go for the full rack and order an extra side of fries.
Pizza And Flatbreads
Pizza is a newer addition to the menu, and it is a solid option if you want something quick that does not require a knife and fork. The pizzas are personal-sized, roughly 10 inches, so one per person is the right call.
- Pepperoni Pizza – $12.99
- Margherita Flatbread – $11.49
- BBQ Chicken Flatbread – $13.49
- Supreme Pizza – $14.99
The flatbreads are thinner and crispier than the regular pizza. If you prefer a crunch, the BBQ Chicken Flatbread is a good choice. It has red onion, cilantro, and a smoky sauce that pairs well with a cold beer.
Salads And Lighter Options
Not everyone visits Dave & Buster’s to eat heavy food. The salad section has a few options that are fresh and filling, though they are not the cheapest items on the menu.
- House Salad – $8.99
- Caesar Salad with Chicken – $13.49
- Southwest Chicken Salad – $14.49
- Greek Salad – $11.99
You can add grilled shrimp to any salad for an extra $4.99. The Southwest Chicken Salad is the most popular because it includes avocado, corn, black beans, and a lime vinaigrette. It is a full meal on its own.
Desserts And Sweet Treats
Desserts are large enough to share. If you are playing games after dinner, you might want to split one with a friend rather than order your own.
- Chocolate Cake – $7.99
- Cheesecake with Strawberries – $8.49
- Brownie Sundae – $8.99
- Cookie Skillet – $9.49
The Cookie Skillet is the most indulgent option. It comes warm with vanilla ice cream on top and a caramel drizzle. It is sweet, but not overly so, and it is perfect for two people to share.
Drinks And Cocktails
Dave & Buster’s has a full bar, and the drink prices are comparable to other casual dining chains. Soft drinks are around $3.49 with free refills. Cocktails range from $8 to $12 depending on the spirit and complexity.
- House Margarita – $8.99
- Moscow Mule – $9.49
- Local Draft Beer – $5.99
- Signature Cocktails – $10.99 to $12.99
Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM. During that time, you can get half-price appetizers and $2 off draft beers. This is the best time to visit if you want to keep your total bill low.
Kids Menu And Portions
If you bring children, the kids menu offers smaller portions at lower prices. Each kids meal comes with a drink and a side of fries, fruit, or veggies.
- Kids Chicken Tenders – $7.99
- Kids Cheeseburger – $7.99
- Kids Mac and Cheese – $6.99
- Kids Pizza – $7.49
Kids under 3 eat free when you purchase an adult entree. That is a nice perk for families with toddlers who will not eat much anyway.
Value Deals And Combos
Dave & Buster’s frequently runs promotions that bundle food and game credits. These are often the best way to save money if you plan to play games after eating.
One common deal is the “Eat and Play Combo.” For $20, you get an entree and a $10 game card. This is a good deal if you were going to buy game credits anyway. Another option is the “Lunch Duo” for $15, which includes a half sandwich and a cup of soup or salad, available only on weekdays until 4 PM.
You should also check the Dave & Buster’s app before you go. They often send out digital coupons for free appetizers or discounted game play. These coupons can be stacked with the lunch specials, but not always with the combo deals, so read the fine print.
How To Save Money On Your Visit
Budgeting for Dave & Buster’s is not just about the food. The games can drain your wallet if you are not careful. Here are a few practical tips to keep your total spending under control:
- Go during happy hour for half-price appetizers.
- Buy game credits online before you arrive. You often get 25% more credits for the same price.
- Skip the cocktails and stick to draft beer or soft drinks.
- Share an entree. The portions are large enough for two light eaters.
- Use the app for a free appetizer coupon on your birthday month.
If you follow those steps, you can easily have a meal and an hour of gaming for under $30 per person.
Seasonal And Limited Time Items
Dave & Buster’s changes its menu a few times a year. During football season, they add a “Game Day Platter” with wings, sliders, and nachos for around $29.99. In the summer, they often have a limited-time burger with a spicy sauce or a tropical cocktail.
These seasonal items are usually priced slightly higher than the regular menu, but they are worth trying if you want something new. The downside is that they disappear after a few months, so you cannot always rely on them being available.
One thing to watch out for is that the seasonal items are not always listed on the digital menu. You may need to ask your server or check the table tent cards. If you see something interesting, order it right away because it might not be there next week.
Allergen And Dietary Information
If you have food allergies, you should know that Dave & Buster’s does not have a dedicated gluten-free fryer. That means the fries and any fried items are cooked in shared oil, which can cause cross-contamination. The menu does have a few gluten-free options, like the grilled chicken salad or the steak without the sauce, but you should tell your server about your allergy so they can alert the kitchen.
Vegetarians have a few choices, including the Buffalo Cauliflower, the Margherita Flatbread, and the House Salad. The kitchen can also make a veggie burger upon request, but it is not listed on the main menu. Just ask, and they will usually accommodate you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cheapest item on the Dave & Buster’s menu?
A: The cheapest food item is the Pretzel Bites at $8.99, but the soft drinks at $3.49 are the lowest priced item overall. The kids menu also has items under $7.
Q: Do Dave & Buster’s prices include game credits?
A: No, food and game credits are separate. However, the “Eat and Play Combo” bundles an entree with a $10 game card for a single price.
Q: Are there any hidden fees on the menu?
A: Some locations add a 3% surcharge to cover rising food costs. This is usually printed at the bottom of the receipt, not the menu. You can ask your server if your location has this surcharge.
Q: Can I order just appetizers without an entree?
A: Yes, you can order anything from the menu without being required to buy an entree. Many people come in just for wings and a drink.
Q: Is the menu the same at every location?
A: The core menu is the same, but some locations offer regional specials or test items. Prices can also vary by a few dollars depending on the city.
Final Thoughts On Pricing
Dave & Buster’s is not the cheapest place to eat, but it is not the most expensive either. A typical meal for one person with a drink and an appetizer will run you about $30. If you skip the appetizer and stick to water, you can get out for under $20.
The key is to plan ahead. Check the online menu, look for coupons, and decide whether you want to spend more on food or games. That way, you are not surprised when the bill arrives.
One last tip: the portions are big. Do not order a full appetizer and a full entree for yourself unless you are very hungry. Split the appetizer with your group or take half of your entree home. The food reheats well, and you will save money for the arcade.
So next time you plan a trip to Dave & Buster’s, use this guide to know what you are paying for. You can enjoy the games and the food without blowing your budget, and you will know exactly what to expect when the server brings the check.