Let’s acknowledge a couple things right up front: 1. Watching “the big game” is probably best enjoyed sitting on a couch at the home of your friend with the biggest TV, and 2. Los Angeles is not, if we’re being honest, a truly excellent sports bar city. But, with those two provisos stated, let’s dive right into the deep end of the beer-and-buffalo-sauce pool. Here are our picks for some of the best sports bars in L.A.
33 Taps
This cheerful neighborhood spot has, as the name implies, a considerable array of beer taps, as well as wine and, cider, and cocktails made with “fermented spirits.” In addition to sports, the bar hosts Drag Race watch parties and showtunes karaoke nights. 3725 W. Sunset Blvd., Silver Lake.
The Greyhound Bar & Grill
Now boasting two locations, the Greyhound is a classic pub. It’s popular with sports-watchers of many stripes, even hosting official meetings of the local chapter of the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club. The wings (bone-in or boneless) come in many flavors and are high quality, as is the rest of the fare. 5570 N. Figueroa St, Highland Park; 933 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale.
40 Love
The bright and chic 40 Love takes decor inspo from vintage country clubs, but the result is a welcoming modern sports bar. Enjoy updated takes on all the classic dishes–pretzels, wings, club sandwiches, burgers–along with elegant craft cocktails and laid-back beers. 829 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood.
Legends
Open in Long Beach since the ’70s, Legends claims to be the oldest “modern sports bar” in the United States. The original location has two floors, including a private party room available to book out; a newer outlet in Huntington Beach boasts a large outdoor area with huge projection screen. Both allow kids, for when the whole family wants to watch together. 5236 E. 2nd St., Long Beach; 301 Main St., Huntington Beach.
NUMBERS Sports Lounge & Bar
Managed by a former pro basketball ref, the newly-opened NUMBERS is serious about the games. Their website boasts an extremely comprehensive listing of sports broadcasts, U.S. and international, so you can be sure to make it in whenever your favorite team plays. 3500 W. 6th Street, 3rd Floor, Koreatown.
Tom’s Watch Bar
This L.A. Live sports bar is the spot for total TV overload. Part of a mini-chain, Tom’s Watch Bar has screens on screens on screens, arranged in what they describe as a “360-degree viewing experience.” 1011 S. Figueroa St, Suite B 101, downtown.
3rd Base Sports Bar
On the clubbier side–lounge-y seating, wood paneling, female servers in bottle service girl-style ensembles, the option to have truffles shaved on multiple food items–this Hollywood sports bar channels a Las Vegas feel. 1562 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood.
The Woodman
Pitched as “not your average pub,” this Valley spot nonetheless checks all the boxes you would expect from a sports bar. Screens, drinks, snacks, a few board games to keep you entertained between matches, and a patio area if you need some fresh air. 13615 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks.
RELATED: 23 of the Best Bars in Downtown L.A.
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