Formula 1 Racing-Themed Premium Arcade Bar Looks To Expand In The U.S.

Formula 1 has become quite popular in the last few years. The international racing circuit is now looking to bring the experience to life via a dining experience for its fans stateside.

F1 Arcade recently announced the grand opening date of its second U.S. venue, located in Washington, D.C.’s Union Market District. 

The new location will open its doors October 13 and feature 83 Formula 1 racing simulators, a food and beverage menu, private event spaces and more. Following an opening in Boston in April, the D.C. location of the London-based concept will be the largest location yet, spanning 17,300 square feet. The space features design details such as F1-circuit inspired ceiling chandeliers and race telemetry wall neons. In addition to the communal spaces, private rooms–– equipped with a private bar and 16 simulators––can be combined to accommodate up to 130 guests.

“Our goal is to offer an immersive and exhilarating experience that combines high-octane racing with exceptional food and drink,” says Jon Gardner, US President of F1 Arcade. “We believe this innovative concept will become a must-visit destination for both racing enthusiasts and those seeking a unique social experience.”

F1 Arcade’s food and beverage menu is inspired by global cuisine, featuring seafood towers, caviar service, ahi tuna tostadas, and wagyu beef sliders. To complement the culinary offerings, F1 Arcade’s 42-foot bar will serve an array of handcrafted cocktails, such as the Slipstreamer (made with Reposado tequila, spiced hibiscus, lime, champagne and infused with gold dust), alongside premium spirits, and “designated drivers” (mocktails).

The F1 Arcade Hub allows guests to create personal driver profiles to enhance their individual preferences and achievement. The gameplay experience, created by Motorsport Games via its RFactor2 racing simulation platform, allows guests to choose from Head to Head racing where they compete individually or for groups of 6 or more. Parties will be put into teams where they will compete against each other earning points. Different skill modes from rookie to elite means all ages and abilities can experience the fun and race together.

The Washington, D.C. outpost is part of a U.S. expansion plan for the brand, with 30 additional locations planned to open throughout the country within the next five years. The D.C. launch coincides with Formula 1’s rapid growth in the market, with 1 in 2 fans starting to follow the sport in the last four years.

Reservations for D.C.’s F1 Arcade will open in September, and those first to sign up will receive perks such as priority booking access, chances to win tickets to Formula 1 Grand Prix races and money-can’t buy experiences.