Meet Jack Novelli

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jack Novelli and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jack, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I moved to Houston during COVID, life was just work and sleep. I missed being creative and social, so I tried getting back into D&D—but finding a group as a young woman in a new city wasn’t easy. Most games were in people’s houses, which didn’t always feel safe or comfortable.

Then I met Carlo online, and we started talking about how awesome it would be to have public places where anyone could show up, play games, and feel safe doing it. He invited me to a game at PennyWhistle Pub—it was local, public, had great food, and the game was fantastic. After a few sessions (and a few drinks), he joked, “We should totally turn this into a business.”

I took it seriously. I made a logo, started a Discord, built a website, and began hosting pop-in games. People loved it—especially with everyone craving social connection post-lockdown. We focused on creating safe, fun, and welcoming spaces where players could start their TTRPG journey or just meet new friends. We added more venues, brought on more GMs, and BarHaven has been growing ever since.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
BarHaven just turned three years old, and honestly, it feels like we’re only getting started. What began as a small D&D group with a handful of passionate nerds has grown into a 2,000+ member community, with games happening at some of the coolest venues across Houston—and beyond.

At the heart of BarHaven is our commitment to making TTRPGs more accessible, safe, and fun for everyone. We pride ourselves on offering meet-ups where players of all experience levels can find a great game, enjoy a drink, and walk away with new friends. Every BarHaven Game Master is Vetted and Certified, trained in what we call the “Four Pillars of Game Hosting”: The Leader, The Arbitrator, The Performer, and The Parent. These pillars guide GMs in running immersive, respectful, and inclusive games—ensuring every table is a good time for all.

A huge part of that vision comes from my co-owner Carlo Magana. Carlo’s a brilliant storyteller with a background in performance and theater, and he’s helped make sure our games don’t just run—they shine. While I geek out over community events and game night logistics, Carlo’s the face at the table, helping players get fully immersed and excited to come back for more.

Of course, getting here wasn’t easy. Growing a community from the ground up takes constant work—and a whole lot of heart. We’ve navigated venue changes, logistical chaos, and the ever-evolving needs of a growing player base. But every challenge has taught us something new, and our community has only become stronger because of it.

If there’s one thing I want people to know about BarHaven, it’s this: We’re here to make space for joy, adventure, and belonging—one game at a time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Houston for the week, we’d start strong with a Friday sunset picnic at Eleanor Tinsley Park. It’s the perfect intro to the city—gorgeous skyline, relaxing vibes, and a great way to slow down before the fun begins. After that, I’d take them to a BarHaven meet-up at Velvet Oaks Tavern for open D&D night. Our games are beginner-friendly and packed with adventure—we provide everything needed, so it’s easy to jump right in and meet new people.

Saturday morning, we’d head to Blacksmith Coffee—if we can beat the mid-morning crowd. It’s hands-down my favorite coffee spot in Houston (I’m not kidding, I go there every other day). They’ve got amazing brews and a breakfast menu that hits every time. From there, it’s off to the Urban Harvest Farmers Market to browse local produce, support some of my favorite farmers, and soak in the community vibes.

Saturday night, we’d get ready for a wild time in Montrose—my favorite Houston neighborhood and also kind of BarHaven’s spiritual home. We’d probably hit up Numbers Nightclub for a night of drinks, gritty music, and one of the most fun laser shows you’ll ever see. If you’re into dance floors with character, this is it.

Sunday is the ultimate chill day. Montrose’s thrift row turns into a little outdoor marketplace with pop-ups from vintage vendors, food trucks, and local makers. We’d grab coffee from somewhere like Agora or Brasil and spend the day weaving through shops like Pavement, Leopard Lounge, B.J. Oldies, and Blessings’ Plants. It’s one of those low-key perfect days.

And then Monday… it’s back to the day job. But hey, that’s just the start of the Houston adventure.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely—my shoutout goes to my mom. She’s honestly a bigger nerd than I am and was playing D&D before it was cool. When I was a kid, she didn’t tell traditional bedtime stories—instead, we played what I now call “bedtime D&D Lite.” We’d make up characters and send them on adventures, complete with paper dioramas and toys as miniatures. It was magical and formative.

She’s been a huge part of BarHaven’s success from the very beginning. Whether it’s encouraging me creatively, helping with artwork, brainstorming event ideas, or just keeping me grounded when things get overwhelming—she’s always been there. Her love for games and storytelling is a big reason BarHaven exists today, and her support helps keep it thriving.

Website: https://www.circleofbarhaven.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barhavenhtx/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/circle-of-barhaven

Twitter: https://x.com/BarHavenHTX

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/circleofbarhaven/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@circleofbarhaven

Image Credits
All photos taken by myself – Jack Novelli under and for the Circle Of BarHaven