How do you define home? Is it embracing a feeling of laughter? Or is it entering a space where you can speak to others in a way that embraces zero criticism? Whether it’s one of these feelings, or some combination of both, every house has a set of characteristics that makes it unique: shortcuts, traditions, ways things just get done. Ours is simple: slow down, play more, be present.

House Rules began with a simple observation. The best nights we’d had were the ones together. At a table, pieces or cards spread out everywhere, conversation that turned into hour-long debates about the rules nobody remembered right.

We wanted a place in New Haven built around this feeling. A place where the analog things we love could bring people together, not separate us through our phones.

During the day, we’re your third place. Somewhere you can enjoy a sweet treat and beverage. Lose an afternoon to a book or conversation. Somewhere there’s no pressure to move fast. By night, our space shifts. Lights dim, a record player fills the room with music, and House Rules becomes the place you and your friends relax, hang out, play a board game, or enjoy an event.

House Rules in its truest sense is our philosophy in two words. Every game has an official set of rules; then there are your “house rules.” The ones you and your people create along the way. These are the rules that make the game yours.

This is what we’re creating at House Rules. A space with a vibe and structure that feels like home with just enough room to make it your own.