[tfgg]

In Oxford there's http://www.thirstymeeples.co.uk/. It's really good for finding new games, as they've got roaming board game specialists that will recommend a new game, help you get set up and teach you the basics. I just wish they'd get an alcohol license ;) (if only to help their profitability!)

After playing a fair bit of Catan, I tend to get frustrated with how it's just a bit too random to establish complex strategy. I rather like Dominion for variability and depth.

[pliny]

How do they keep the food off the games? Is everything covered in plastic?

[tfgg]

It's honestly not an issue I've ever seen come up... though I have wondered about how the extent of wear and tear on the games over time is going to affect their business model.