The Upper East Side location of Horae Play, an all-claw machine arcade with one other location in Flushing, Queens, officially opened its doors to the public on Saturday following a Halloween day promotional event in front of its storefront.
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“We’re still in the ‘soft opening’ phase and waiting for a few things,” owner Wally Xiang told East Side Feed on Thursday afternoon, pointing to a couple empty shelves without elaborating.
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Located at 1325 Lexington Ave., between 88th and 89th streets, the “claw paradise” is packed to the gills with claw machines awash in neon lighting. Each machine is stuffed with various plushies, ranging from gigantic capybaras to classic Pikachus.
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The first Horae Play opened up only last year; a combination of high demand and a desire to broaden its clientele and attract more private events inspired Wally and his business partners to expand to the Upper East Side.
“Our arcade is more than just a place to play; it’s a haven for those seeking thrills and laughter. The whimsical charm of our cute claw machines adds a touch of magic to your gaming experience, making every visit a journey into a world of excitement and wonder,” Horae Play’s website says. “Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a plushy enthusiast, Horae Play invites you to relish the thrill of the claw, the joy of the win, and the satisfaction of taking home a coveted prize.”
If leaving a possible new plushie to chance isn’t your thing, Horae Play thankfully sells all its plushies, as well as other items like backpacks and puzzle toys.
“Dive into our online catalog and explore the myriad possibilities. Uncover exclusive items that may or may not make their way into our claw machines, adding an extra layer of excitement to your Horae Play experience,” the website states.
Although the soft opening means that there are no set hours yet, the Horae Play out in Flushing is open seven days a week, from 10 am-11 pm Monday to Thursday and Sunday, and from 9 am to 12 am Friday and Saturday.
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