Don't Die Cafe - Vancouver, Washington

Elija B.

In the dictionary under the word eclectic and somewhat near the word eccentric you will find my name. And then right beside that, you will find a listing for The Don’t Die Cafe.

It is the epitome of off the wall oddness with a good dash of friendly welcome. The day I went in was a craft day and the place was full of interesting looking people making a variety of stuff, a lot of knitting and crocheting.

Beyond that the place is filled with a variety of electronic games and there appeared to be outlets both regular and usb everywhere. It looks like a gamers paradise which although I’d rather insert a dull pen into my aging eyes than partake, it does look like a blast for who like such things.

I’ll tell you what I do like though, and that is a business that understands its audience. A business that seeks its place in the community and accepts that responsibility to put out the welcome mat and make a safe space for creative folk.

I spent a lot of my youth as an outsider. My interests were not exactly main stream and my brain was what I suppose now they call neurodivergent. I did not understand much of the normal world, but moved freely in other ways. It was always fascinating, but it could be lonely.

What I would have given for a coffee shop like this! I would have lived there!

And then, I suppose I have to review the normal things. I had a chai latte that was perfect and piping hot. The service was very friendly and informative. It felt like someone who wanted to be there. I approve!

It is the kind of place that is pretty off the norm so it deserves the return support of the community. These kinds of things are rare and precious and if people don’t recognize the possibilities then it will move on and a lot of magic will be lost.

It definitely goes on the list for a fun place to meet friends! I’ll bet someone would teach you how to knit too!

Denise T.

Just popped in today after taking a yoga class next door. The staff was very nice. Very cool space and setup.
I was given the wrong food but it was absolutely delicious!
I ordered the Challengers Feast burrito which comes with sausage and bacon and is $20.
When the food was brought out he said “vegan burrito” and it’s my fault for not mentioning it. I had to head home to get ready for work and I thought he may have just misspoke. I took a few bites and indeed there was no meat or egg. It was very, very good and I will 100% order it again actually! The only bummer is I ordered and paid for the most expensive burrito and was given the cheapest one ($15). I know they are in soft open so I’m truly not upset but upon reviewing the photo I took of the menu noticed that the vegan burrito is called the Level 7 Heroes Feast. Both having “feast” in the name may have been the issue and if I could suggest anything while they are still in soft open, I would maybe rename one of those.

David S.

Interesting gaming cafe. I was looking for a local coffee shop and found this. Service was very friendly. Espresso drink was delicious. Coffee roasted by a local Vancouver WA roaster called Relevant.

Becky U.

Love the vault 31 so much we thought it would be cool to bring my 13 year old to the cafe next door with his friends for a small celebration. We went ahead of time to ask if it was ok. They said everything would be good for us to come and order food for 7 teenagers and bring cake. When we got there. We were prepared to spend about $200 to accommodate 7-10 chicken baskets and even include a huge tip. They stated it would take their whole inventory and said no outside food is welcome. We felt very unwelcome with the cook arms crossed, as he stated this, and he didn't even try to help us in any way. It was so disappointing. If we had known, we wouldn't have gone. In the end, we had to pivot his birthday somewhere else, and It was hard to find at the last minute. I understand they just opened, but they could have informed us nicely that it would not work out. For the future, please be nicer to the next person.

Anthony Y.

I just loved the geeky and welcoming atmosphere of this place! So easy to pick up and play a game, and the food and portions were fantastic!

Janna

It is a great place to hang when you want to drink some great coffee, and play some games.

Katherine J.

I shared my order earlier, however I have grown to love this place! Their food is HUGE in portions, and with my small stomach, it feeds me for at least 3 meals. It does get a bit pricey with add ons, but I personally think it’s worth it? Their mixed drinks are great and their coffee is extremely smooth. Friendly staff and I’m excited to see them get even more set up!

Rachel D.

What a great new spot! The computers were working great, the drinks were good, and all the gaming equipment was new and nice. I hope they stick around!