Mission Control Bar Arcade - Bar in Santa Ana - 515 N Main St, USA

Great little spot, I only wish there was more of it. Bartenders are friendly and quick, the games are typically in good working order, and they have a lot of pinball machines for those interested; occasionally they will host pinball tournaments. Really love the updated bar they just installed; looks great and the space feels way more open. As far as I am aware, Mission Control only serves beverages, but there's a decent variety of good food on the first floor of the building. It also has their often photographed neon sign on the wall that says "come play with me" Lastly, and my favorite part, they have a fantastic trivia night by Geeks Who Drink host Ryan on Thursday evenings where you can hang out and play for free, and even win free drinks without having to win the whole game.

My first visit had me hooked. Great atmosphere, beer selection, and most importantly, 19 pinball machines (as well as other retro arcade games)! The staff are all incredibly friendly and helpful! Karaoke, Pinball League, Trivia, and occasional DJ's during the week. Pizza and tacos are available from the restaurants downstairs. Parking is behind the building down a ways. The happy hour specials are awesome! Tokens can be purchased with cash and card. Prices are reasonable! It's definitely a must visit for pinball enthusiasts and arcade fans!

Located in the heart of Santa Ana, California, is an eclectic gem - a trendy arcade bar, fondly referred to by locals and tourists alike. The venue is a niche blend of entertainment, adorned with great music, clever concoctions, and a clientele as diverse as the arcade games it houses. What sets this bar apart is the ingenious blend of vintage and contemporary, evident in its retro-themed ambiance that takes you on a surreal journey back in time. It’s as though you've stepped into the golden era of arcade gaming. But the real star of the show, apart from the plethora of arcade games, is their cleverly crafted cocktails. Each drink is a tribute to the gaming world, with witty, retro-themed names that will give anyone a hearty chuckle. The drinks are as varied and vibrant as the patrons themselves, embodying the spirit of diversity that this bar embraces. The background score, featuring an array of tracks, subtly complements the playful atmosphere. From 80’s pop hits to modern chart-toppers, the selection is eclectic and thoroughly enjoyable, creating an animated, inclusive environment. This arcade bar is undoubtedly a must-visit in Santa Ana, steeped in nostalgia and cheer, and drenched in fun. Unfortunately I was not granted the opportunity to experience the food but I will definitely be coming back to feat upon their delicious looking menu. They have takeout and dine in options located at a kiosk near the bar.

I don't think they serve food here but the drinks are great. People that frequent the bar are pretty nice. There is a dance floor, pinball, and variety of classic arcade games. Make sure to bring some cash to exchange for quarters!

Been twice in the last 2 weeks - both for happy hour (5-7pm). Pro: Taps are $5.50 during happy hour ($8.50 regularly). Cons: Beer/Seltzer was warm out of the tap. And when I say warm I mean warm. Karaoke happened to start at 6pm one of the days. It was extremely loud (almost unbearable) and seemed very out of place. Tonight when I showed up at 5:05pm the door was locked but I could hear voices/movement within. No signage or anything indicating they weren't open, were opening later than advertised, or were hosting a private event. I waited until 5:15 then left. I love pinball but will not be coming back again.

Nice little hidden gem bar-cade in Santa Ana with classlic arcade and pinball machines as well as craft beer on tap.

TLDR; Cool vibe, full and lively but still had a lot of fun. It was a Saturday night and having been to the barcade in Arts District LA, EightyTwo, I was expecting a similar vibe (full and kind of annoying). While it was similar, it had all the best parts and none (that I could see) of the worst (maybe the lack of AC? but it wasn't a big deal, even in July). It was fun and lively without it being too crowded, there were actually games available to play, good assortment, and not too pricey! For $20, 4 of us played for a good hour and had a our fill of fun arcade games. Didn't try their drinks or food, however, so I can neither recommend nor deter from that. The dj was fun and there was some dancing in the dance area but not much. Good music, not too loud. Overall, great experience and good fun!

I was downstairs waiting for food and some drunk hit me with glass ten feet up. No security was there. The bar manager had to handle the drunk guy that caused me to get injured. The great businesses Below this bar provided first aid for me. They did nothing to help me or even took the time too see if I was okay after a glass decoration hit my head and body. The bar manager even had a chance to press charges but chose to let him walk after even after i was assaulted.Thanks for the cut and bruises and not caring about what happened to someone injured by your disregard to have security on site that would of prevented me from getting hit with glass from the 2nd floor!! It's now Wednesday and still not a single call. 4 days since this review went up.