Operating in Lexington, Kentucky, Arcadium opened its doors in November 2012 as the city’s first arcade-themed bar, situated at 574 N. Limestone. The establishment was founded by Sean Taylor and cousins Spears and Will Hinkle, who drew inspiration from arcade bar concepts in New York, tailoring the experience to a Lexington and Kentucky sensibility. Housed in a building that once housed Spalding’s Bakery from 1934 until its relocation, and remained vacant for seven years prior, Arcadium revitalized the space into a vibrant community hub. It quickly became a popular late-night destination, known for its selection of classic video games such as Donkey Kong, Galaga, Tetris, Ms. Pac-Man, and Street Fighter, alongside pinball machines, a rotating array of craft beers, and a notable bourbon selection. In 2020, Favor Kitchen, a chef-driven restaurant, also began operating in the back of the venue, offering locally sourced pub food.
Arcadium is slated to cease operations at the end of April 2026, after over a decade of serving the community. Throughout its run, it provided a nostalgic retreat for patrons, fostering a dedicated base of regulars and contributing to the local Northside district. While the original arcade bar concept will conclude, a new venture, Mulberry Street Bar and Kitchen, is planned to open in the same location, retaining a few arcade games as a tribute to the building’s recent history.
