When you imagine an action-packed arcade with a mixture of nostalgic games adults love and a plethora of games for kids, you have a good start with Insert Coin Olympia. Owners Keli and Dan Coleman have expanded that concept to include excellent food, a full bar for the over 21-crowd, axe throwing, an ice cream parlor, family activities and party spaces. There’s even pizza and a robot that delivers your meal.
“We have a lot going on,” says Keli. The Olympia location has its own Flynn’s, a Tron-inspired arcade where the games are free. Remember Pac-man and Donkey Kong? Guests can participate in special family nights with trivia, karaoke and bingo. Meet Quorra, the Makr Shakr robotic bartender who both mixes drinks and dances.
The Colemans opened their first Insert Coin in Centralia in 2021, which met with quick enthusiasm. They brought the popular venue to Olympia in September 2024, with three times the square footage and a few new ideas. Gamers will find pinball machines, air hockey, and games (over 200) to play literally from A to Z.
The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, tasty food including handmade burger patties with freshly-made garlic aioli. Share a plate of totchos or nachos on house-made chips and look at the desserts, too. “People come in for the food, and aren’t even planning to play any games,” notes Keli. Frenchies on 4th makes the sourdough pizza dough. Kalama Sourdough Bakery provides dough for the Centralia location. Be sure to check out the beer and cider wall that features rotating, regional selections. Creative mocktails entice others.
Insert Coin Olympia is definitely a family business. Keli’s sister and her nephews work at the Centralia location. Four of her five children work in Olympia. The younger ones get to weigh in on prizes and what’s popular to keep things relevant.
You can book parties, corporate events or family celebrations. Three event spaces can accommodate up to 120 people. Find lunch specials, Happy Hour, and a kid’s menu.
“We have a really great place for all ages to hang out,” encourages Keli. Come and join the fun.
Insert Coin Olympia
insertcoinwa.com/olympia
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS