THERE’S always room for dessert and who doesn’t love a good board game? So, why not combine the two, whilst still supporting a unique local business in Ilminster.

Located at 39 Silver Street, at Gamesmaster café you can enjoy a delicious bite to eat whilst unleashing your inner competitive streak. 

On a rather hectic Friday I thought I would brighten my day by switching up my daily routine and visiting a new café.

I was immediately drawn in by the colourful exterior of Gamesmaster - which is tucked away in a quiet corner of Ilminster and loudly contrasts with all its surroundings.

Just one look at the sunny colours immediately provided me with a much-needed serotonin boost and I knew this was the right place to grab the sweet treat I was craving.

I felt right at home sat inside the vibrant interior of the café - with its technicoloured walls and furniture, vibrant splashes of watercolour artworks, neon signs and blackboard menus strewn across the walls.

Once a charity shop, left vacant for months, Gamesmaster café and its sister shop Punky Dory swooped in and revitalised the space, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air into what was once a subdued, stagnant building.

Aside from the entertaining pop-art interior, the shop offers a wide variety of sweet treats, savoury dishes and beverages to choose from.

Since I was really craving something sugary, I opted for a vanilla milkshake and a mango and passionfruit cake to share, costing £8.80 overall.

Gamesmaster cafe's vanilla milkshake and mango and passion fruit cake (Image: Molly Kirk) The customer service at the shop was comfortable, informal and friendly and despite a small delay, my order arrived and I was really impressed by how chatty and welcoming the staff were overall.

I also find it lovely that the café is a part of Silver Lining Internships which provides jobs for young adults in the local community who need help achieving independence.

The passionfruit and mango cake was delicious, there was just the right amount of icing on top, which melted in my mouth and I could really taste the passionfruit shining through.

My first impression of the vanilla milkshake was “wow, this is huge”, and I was really relieved to have someone to share it with otherwise I could not have possibly finished it. The presentation was also lovely with sprinkles and marshmallows added on top to make it look even more tempting (if that's even possible).

From the chaotic cosiness of the café to their friendly staff and diverse board game selection - ranging from Monopoly to Harry Potter in boardgame form, I know this is a café I will return to whenever I need a mood/energy boost.

The café is open Monday-Friday from 9.30am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am to 5pm.

I’d highly recommend Gamesmaster café to anyone passing through Ilminster. Come inside, grab a boardgame and soak up the fun, whimsical atmosphere.