Post Overview: Best sports bars NYC
It should go without saying, New Yorkers are passionate. Passionate about their food, passionate about their neighborhoods, passionate about their sports teams.
Hanging out at some of the best sports bars in NYC where everyone is rooting for the same team is nothing short of exhilarating. Whether it’s celebratory high fives with strangers or the colorful language used after a bad play, the experience is worth the stop when visiting New York City.
But with so many options it can be hard to know which bars are worth your time (and in this expensive city, your money). As an avid sports fan that follows all of America’s major leagues like the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL and MLS I’m here to help.
Below I’ll list the best sports bars NYC has to offer, ranked from first hand experience. Now I haven’t visited every sports bar in New York City, but I’ve been to enough that my bank account thinks I survive solely off buffalo wings and brews. I’ll tell you all about my favorites so you can decide which to visit for your sporting event.
We have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s dive in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Sports Bars NYC
#25. Clinton Hall
Clinton Hall’s name is an ode to Castle Clinton on the southern tip of Manhattan. Originally, Castle Clinton was made to protect the people of New York. Today, Clinton Hall protects New Yorkers from “consuming bad beer” by being one of the best sports bars in NYC.
The beer hall is great for a chill, easy going hangout thanks to the large communal tables and plethora of board games. And for those who love outdoor seating, there’s plenty at Clinton Hall (and they even have heaters).
If you’re looking for a fun spot to catch the next game, Clinton Hall checks a lot of boxes. Between the games, beers and lively crowds you’ll be hard pressed to find a better sports bar in NYC when it comes to entertainment.
And if that doesn’t have you sold — this NYC sports bar also has great happy hour deals throughout the week. The booze selection consists of $6 beer, $8 well drinks and house wines.
Also worth noting – Clinton Hall boasts one of the best burgers in NYC.
Address: 90 Washington St, New York, NY 10006
#24. The Irish American Pub
If you’re in search of a good time, and nothing but a good time, The Irish American Pub is the place for you. As one of the best sports bars in NYC the joint knows how to curate a high-spirited atmosphere fueled by alcohol, good food and sports.
Nearly every major sporting event can be found on one of the many TV’s hanging from the walls and the crowd is full of fun-loving, jovial locals. For any fans of football (and I mean real football, some of you may know it as soccer) The Irish American Pub has become a hub for Liverpool games, and let me tell you something — the atmosphere is electric.
There’s also a pool table, ping pong and karaoke further solidifying The Irish American Pub as one of the best sports bars in NYC.
There’s a generous selection of spirits including a decent array of whiskeys. If you choose to keep things simple though, beer is available (including great pours of Guinness).
Address: 17 John St, New York, NY 10038
#23. 11th Street Bar
Another great sports bar in NYC for Liverpool fans (or just soccer in general) is 11th Street Bar. As the longtime home of the Liverpool Supporters Club you’ll find that on game days the pub swells with folks in the iconic red jerseys.
And if you’re not a sports loving fellow and prefer music the beloved East Village pub has you covered too. Every Sunday, 11th Street Bar organizes one of the longest running traditional Irish Seisiúns, or music sessions, starting at 9:30PM.
The high-spirited melodies bring the pub to life and before you know it you’re tapping your foot along to the beat. 11th Street Bar is one of the best sports bars in New York City thanks to the fun-loving, electric atmosphere.
Even if you don’t consider yourself a huge sports fan, there’s one thing you can count on that will draw you into the pub – booze! You’ll have the choice of a variety of craft beer, wine or cocktails that are sure to put a smile on your face.
Address: 510 E 11th St, New York, NY 10009
#22. 3 Sheets
If you’re looking for the best sports bars in NYC to reunite with your college buddies, 3 Sheets in the West Village should be at the top of your list. The joint feels like a classic college bar, with board games and brews aplenty.
Thanks to the bar’s two floors it’s one of the best sports bars in NYC for large groups. Head to the top floor if you’re looking to play some games. There’s tables for beer pong and flip cup as well as giant Jenga and Connect Four.
The bottom floor is more like a traditional restaurant/pub scene with TV’s behind the bar and tables scattered throughout.
The service at 3 Sheets is like that of a small town bar with locals and servers on a first name basis. There isn’t a ton of employee-turnover at the bar, so odds are you’ll run into the same servers and bartenders if you visit more than once.
Students from nearby New York University give the bar a resounding buzz. It’s lively enough to have a high-spirited atmosphere but not so jammed you’ll struggle finding a seat.
I will give you a warning though – the music can be loud. This is both a positive and a negative, since it can set the tone for a fun night or be overwhelming.
Address: 134 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012, United States | Check out the daily specials here.
#21. The Playwright Irish Pub
The Playwright Irish Pub is one of the best Irish pubs in New York City for sports lovers. Notably, the NYC Washington State Cougars Alumni Association and the Real Madrid and Dallas Cowboys Supporters Clubs have made the pub their home base. This means whenever these teams play, the Playwright gets packed!
However even when these teams aren’t playing there is usually some sport playing on the screens. You’ll rarely find this NYC sports bar empty, with casual watchers taking their time sipping their drinks.
Speaking of drinks, the pub has a small cocktail menu and a simple selection of beer on draft. Additionally, the Playwright is one of the best sports bars in New York City for happy hour because it runs from 4-8PM, Monday through Friday.
You’ll be able to enjoy $8 beers along with $9 cocktails and wine. This might seem steep depending on where you’re visiting from, but the prices are solid compared to the NYC standard.
Address: 27 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
#20. Clara’s
All my Bushwick brothers and sisters can rejoice in knowing one of the best sports bars in NYC is in their hood. Clara’s is a no-frills establishment that serves cold beer, hot food and plays all of the major sports leagues.
I’ll be the first to admit the service can be a little slow so don’t expect this to be the kind of bar you can pop into for a quick bite. The burgers, wings and fish tacos have a nostalgic, dive bar taste that’s even better with a slight buzz.
They even have a projector that plays the games across a wall, which is way bigger than any TV you’ll find at a NYC sports bar. As one of the best sports bars in New York City, this is the place you want to be when any of the local teams play.
There is a pool table, but on days where there’s a big game or a pay-per-view event you’ll want to steer clear of it. It’s in the middle of the room which is fine most days, but when the joint swells with sports fans you’ll be struggling to get a shot between the crowds.
Address: 53 Wilson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, United States
#19. Smithfield
Okay – you wanted to go see a game at Madison Square Garden but the tickets were too expensive, sold out, etc. What do you do now?
Well, one of the best sports bars in NYC is located a few blocks away from the iconic arena and ready to host. Smithfield Hall has all the fixings to be one of your go-to joints.
They have 2 bars and 26 TV’s playing basketball, football, hockey and baseball, rugby, cricket and track and field. The bar’s claim to fame however is their soccer coverage, which includes leagues from all over the world. You can easily pinball your eyeballs across multiple screens, making sure to not miss any of the action. But that’s not all! A full schedule can be viewed online.
Smithfield Hall is also one of the best sports bars in NYC for outdoor viewing. They have an outdoor seating area with heated tables and 8 TV’s! Summertime sports have never been more enticing!
Address: 138 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001, United States
#18. The Stumble Inn
If you’re looking for one of the best sports bars in NYC to get loud and have fun, The Stumble Inn fits the bill. The joint has music booming just about every day of the week so it’s a great place to bring a rowdy group of friends.
There are beer pong tables and TV’s plastered all over the walls providing generous entertainment. You can easily lose track of time enjoying your company and taking advantage of the drink specials.
Having said all that, there is a quiet before the storm. Before around 7 or 8PM the bar has a neighborhood feel with locals enjoying a bite to eat after work. Just bear the difference in ambience before visiting, if you want to party come later if you just want to hang come early!
Address: 1454 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021
#17. Pig N Whistle
Sports bars in NYC don’t only cater to traditional, American sports. In fact, Pig N Whistle is a hot-spot for rugby enthusiasts because of the bar’s great coverage of the sport.
In recent years Rugby has grown in popularity in America, but it’s been a favorite across the globe for decades. Therefore the crowd at Pig N Whistle is a blend between old-timers who have followed the sport for years and newcomers that are excited to hop on the trend. The pub also caters to football (both soccer and American) fans and hockey.
At Pig N Whistle you’ll find one of the best food menus too, blending the warmth of Irish pub food and classic American bar fare. The oak tables and warm lighting helps add to the cozy pub feeling, which is masterfully juxtaposed by a cold beer.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal with sports in the background or there is a can’t-miss match you’re dying to see, Pig N Whistle can satisfy many needs. That’s why it’s one of the best sports bars in NYC, and the bar’s convenient location near Times Square only makes it more accessible.
Address: 202 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018, United States
#16. Yard House
Yard House is not only one of the best sports bars in NYC, but one of the largest sports bar chains in America. They began expanding into the East Coast in 2010 and now boast nearly 100 bars across the country!
In 2021, after being tripped up by the pandemic, the chain opened up their first NYC sports bar in Times Square and she’s a beaut! The joint is flashy and big, exactly what you’d expect of a new chain restaurant opening in Times Square.
They have more than 130 beers on tap, so finding something to drink will only be made difficult by having too many options. Same goes for the same menu which boasts everything from blackened salmon to nachos.
Of course this is one of the best sports bars in NYC so you’ll find TV’s hanging off the walls. The bar covers all the classic American sports including football, baseball and basketball. Thanks to its convenient location and flashy signs, this is one of the busiest sports bars in New York City. Luckily they offer reservations, so with proper planning you won’t have to wait for a table.
Address: 575 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018, United States
#15. All Star Sports Bar & Grill
All Stars Sports Bar & Grill is on the Upper West Side a stone’s throw away from Central Park. Back in my healthier days when I would run in the park I’d reward myself with a brew from one of the best sports bars in NYC afterwards. I’ve learned to just jump straight to the brew, which has resulted in a bit of a beer belly (but that’s a different conversation).
The NYC sports bar has all the fixings of a classic neighborhood joint even though it’s on a street with towering skyscrapers. The large screens make sure you’re not lacking in any entertainment as you chow down on burgers and fries lining nearly the entire perimeter of the joint.
As far as drinks are concerned All Stars Sports Bar & Grill has all the classic beverages you may want. Their claim to fame however is their bloody mary has gotten some well deserved praise and should be on your radar when you visit one of the best sports bars in NYC.
Address: 327 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
#14. Turnmill
Home to the NYC Evertonians, a fan club of the English soccer team Everton, Turnmill is one of the best sports bars in NYC. With that said the bar plays more than just Everton games, also covering other teams from all over the world and a wide variety of sports.
The food menu is reminiscent of that of a pub, with classic dishes like giant pretzels, tater tots and buffalo wings being par for the course. There’s also an array of brews both on draft and in cans, as well as a respectable whiskey menu that will make your mouth water.
Of all the sports bars in NYC, Turnmill does a great job expanding beyond just sports. The bar hosts live jazz every Wednesday at 8PM and Trivia every Monday at 7PM. Keep the varying schedule in mind. The last thing you want is to arrive for a game on either one of those days and have your experience be diminished by distractions.
Address: 119 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016, United States
#13. Mercury Bar West
Mercury Bar in Hell’s Kitchen has been one of the best sports bars in NYC for years. Their classic bar-fare is a consistent home-run that keeps locals coming back again and again.
Whether you order wings (and you should always order wings), tacos or a burger you’re all but guaranteed to be licking your fingers by the end of your meal.
This is also one of the best sports bars in NYC for vegans thanks to a respectable new vegan menu. Plant-based meats are available along with veggie-forward plates.
Plus Mercury Bar has a happy hour that runs from opening until 8PM, giving you ample time to score some good drink deals. The one thing to note is that Mercury Bar doesn’t offer shots, all liquor must come in a mixed drink.
The 17 televisions hanging across the watering-hole keep you well entertained with soccer, football, basketball, baseball and hockey. Any fans of the Penn State Nittany Lions will also consider this one of the best sports bars in NYC since the pub is an official home bar where alumni gather on game days.
Address: 659 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States
#12. The Three Monkeys
The Three Monkeys sits among the best sports bars in NYC largely thanks to a single dish — their sliders. They have beef, buffalo chicken and brisket and each warrant a try. The small bites are tender, juicy and loaded with so much flavor you’ll be planning a return trip before you even get up from your seat.
Of course the bar has plenty of TV’s making sure you’re kept in the loop with all the major sporting events. It’s not uncommon for the joint to swell with locals on game day, but for the most part getting a table is painless (which is a good thing since The Three Monkeys doesn’t offer reservations).
The seating area is breathable thanks to the fact that The Three Monkeys has two floors to help spread everyone out. Even better, there is a patio that (depending on the weather) offers a great opportunity to drink and watch the game outside.
They have over 30 brews on tap so you’ll have plenty of fuel as you cheer on your favorite sports team. The only downside is that it’s a home bar for fans of the New England Patriots (boo!), but the vibe is always right and friendly making The Three Monkeys one of the best sports bars in NYC.
Address: 236 W 54th St, New York, NY 10019, United States
#11. East End Bar & Grill
A classic NYC sports bar, East End Bar & Grill has brick lined walls, leather booths and a team of bartenders that seem to enjoy being at work. By no means is it a classy joint, but if you’re interested in taking the missus on a date night when it so happens to be game day, East End Bar & Grill can kill two birds with one stone.
They have a beer pong table, but generally it’s a sitting bar where you shouldn’t expect dancing or a ton of mingling. Bring a close friend to enjoy the game and spend some time at one of the best sports bars in NYC.
It’s tucked away at the top of the Upper East Side and is exactly the type of bar you’d see in a New York City sitcom. Locals and bartenders appear to be best buds and spirits are high, especially when a local team plays.
As one of the best sports bars in NYC, East End Bar & Grill covers basketball, football, hockey and a variety of combat sports. The bar gets busiest however when Syracuse plays, because East End Bar & Grill is the home base for alumni to gather and cheer on their beloved alma mater.
Address: 1672 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States
#10. Triona’s
Homey like an Irish pub should be, Triona’s is a paradise for boozy bros and one of the best sports bars in NYC. Its warm lighting and wood tones can make it feel like home away from home, and becomes even more so when you get to know the friendly staff.
Opened in 2009 Triona’s has been one of the best NYC sports bars long enough they were forced to expand to a second location. You’ll find one of the bars in the West Village and another in Gramercy Park.
Part of what makes Triona’s one of the best sports bars in NYC is the slew of specials and generous happy-hour. Monday through Friday from 2-7PM you can enjoy $5 beer and $10 cocktails. I know most games happen later into the evening but by then you’ll be a few brews deep and feeling good.
Both locations have ample TV’s playing just about any major sporting event you can think of. Even better, fans of the University of Michigan Wolverines and Chicago Bears have made Triona’s their home base. Any time either team plays the joint swells with lively fans!
Address: 192 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003 & 237 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012
#9. Bounce Sporting Club
Bounce Sporting Club is one of the sports bars in NYC where it feels socialites might mingle. It’s big and spacious and frequently boasts a DJ, just like the clubs you see in the movies.
The booths are sleek and modern, lined with black leather. All in all – it feels like a classy joint. With that being said, at the end of the day it’s just another sports bar in New York City so how fancy can it really be? You come here to relax and eat good food, and Bounce can check that box.
The food menu is small, consisting of traditional bar food like burgers, wings and other small bites. The drink menu is slightly larger since it includes wine, beer, cocktails and spirits.
Since it is one of the best sports bars in NYC, Bounce Sporting Club has a slew of TV’s playing most major sporting events. Having said that – they frequently have a DJ so don’t expect to get any audio on the game.
Bounce Sporting Club is like a blend between a club and one of the best sports bars in NYC. A lively crowd visits to meet new people, so I mostly recommend coming if you’re a casual sports fan or the game that you’re interested in isn’t a super intense, high stakes match that will require your full attention.
Note: Since Bounce Sporting Club has an “exclusive” vibe to it, they have bouncers. I’ve had more than one friend complain about dealing with the bouncers but let’s be real, dealing with bouncers is always a coin-flip. I’ve personally never had a bad experience but just a heads up.
Address: 55 W 21st St, New York, NY 10010, United States
#8. The Ainsworth
The best way to describe The Ainsworth is by calling it an upscale sports bar. Sounds weird right? But it truly feels like an elevated version of your favorite local dive bar. The biggest difference is if you bring a date here you might actually get a call back. 😉
The interior is stunning, full of plush booths and leather chairs. Vines climb the pillars and line the ceiling creating a charming atmosphere at this NYC sports bar.
The menu is made up of classic American bites like wings, burgers and beer. Since it’s one of the best sports bars in NYC you can expect to find a variety of games and matches displayed across their numerous screens.
Every Thursday and Friday, this NYC sports bar offers one of the best happy hours in Chelsea. I’m talking $5 draft beers, $6 glasses of wine and $8 house cocktails. That’s why although it may look fancy, laymen like me can consider this one of the best budget friendly sports bars in NYC.
Something to note: happy hour specials only apply to those sitting at the bar.
Address: 45 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016, United States
#7. Standings
Small but mighty, Standings in the East Village is one of the best sports bars in NYC. I know I’m not the only one who thinks so, the joint was named the best sports bar on the east coast by Sports Illustrated.
There’s something homey about the bar. Its postcard-size dining area is small enough you can hear most folks’ conversations if it wasn’t for the screaming and yelling at whatever game is playing. There’s no music, just sports and a good time.
They have jerseys hanging from the ceiling and chalkboards with stats (usually about the New York Mets) giving it the full local sports bar vibe. It’s truly a no-frills, straight to the point, cold brew serving NYC sports bar.
During the World Cup the joint was packed full of folks standing (no-pun intended) and cheering on the home team. They also play the big three sports leagues: the NFL, NBA, and MLB so this is one of the best sports bars in NYC for a wide variety of fans.
Address: 43 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003, United States
#6. Legends
If you’re looking for one of the best sports bars in NYC just find the Empire State Building in the skyline and head that way. That’s because Legends (one of the best sports bars in NYC) is literally right across the street!
I had a friend visit me from out of town a few years back and we visited the bar for a Giants game. He still brings it up every time we chat on the phone! There is something magical about entering and exiting the bar at the foot of one of the most iconic buildings in New York City.
Outside of its dream location Legends is just like any old neighborhood sports bar. The bar has inexpensive drinks and hot, tasty food in a relaxing, dive-bar-esque setting.
Another reason Legends is among the best sports bars in NYC is because it’s home to the Football Factory, a collection of supporters clubs who call the bar home. More than 30 supporters clubs for soccer teams from across the world congregate at Legends on game days, so take a look at their calendar and visit when your team plays.
Address: 6 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001
#5. The Junction
I have a hard time putting The Junction into a category, is it a pub? A sports bar? A cantina? Then I remember the drinks are served cold and strong and I think, who cares!
One things for certain though, if you’re looking for fast, friendly service — one of the best sports bars in NYC to catch the next game at is The Junction. In fact, this is a great beginner-friendly sports bar for those looking to dip their toes in the scene.
You’ll catch various games playing on various screens and time seems to slip away as you banter with the table next to you.
The sports might be what gets you in the door but helpful staff is definitely what keeps you coming back. With the laid-back environment and fantastic drinks, it was only a matter of time before The Junction hit our list of best sports bars in NYC.
Address: 329 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States
#4. Off The Wagon
Off The Wagon is another great sports bar in NYC with a college-town feel thanks in large part to the swarms of New York University students who frequent it.
If you stop by during the day the bar is relatively empty, except for the few folks taking advantage of the TV’s to watch the game. If you show up at night, well let’s just say you should be ready to party.
As one of the best sports bars in NYC, the energy at Off the Wagon is contagious. It doesn’t take much before you’re breaking out in dance moves you didn’t even knew you could do!
Address: 109 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, United States
#3. Tap Haus 33
Of all the sports bars in NYC Tap Haus 33 just might be the most original. They have self-serve beer! It’s like setting a kid loose in a toy factory!
This is how it works: Every Monday through Thursday from 5 to 8PM you can enjoy all you can drink beer for only $25 per person. Upon entry you receive a card that you scan before pouring your brew (like a hotel keycard). There are 40 brews on taps so you have plenty to try!
They also have seltzers and ciders that are included in the bottomless happy hour. For folks trying to get the best bang for their buck, it’s harder to find better sports bars in NYC than Tap Haus 33.
They also have 15 TV’s playing the most important matches and games. You won’t struggle finding a competitive game to keep you entertain as you sample all the beer!
Address: 14 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016
#2. Stout NYC
Stout NYC was founded in 2005 and has four locations peppered near Manhattan’s major transportation hubs. Over the years the bar made a name for itself and is now considered one of the best sports bars in NYC.
The joint feels and looks like an upscale neighborhood bar, laid back and friendly. It’s well suited for after-work drinks or meeting with friends for a casual evening out.
There’s a solid selection of draft beers available, most of which come from New York. Plus the food is a step-up from typical dive bar quality so a growling stomach will find its match at this NYC sports bar.
If you need to accompany your beer with some entertainment, Stout NYC has plenty of TV’s playing major sports. All this to say, the easygoing atmosphere and easy accessibility make Stout one of the best sports bars in NYC.
Address: 133 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001, United States
#1. Blondies
Anyone out there consider themselves a chicken wing connoisseur? If so, run (don’t even think about walking) to Blondies, one of the best sports bars in NYC.
Located on the Upper West Side Blondies has been the talk of the town for a while now serving some of the best buffalo wings in the city. Whether you consider yourself a sports fanatic or not, the wings will have you cheering for whoever is playing in no time.
But for those who take sports just as serious as their food, Blondie’s takes the crown when it comes to best sports bars in NYC. The atmosphere is lively, the food is out of this world and the staff is some of the friendliest in the game.
Everything you love about classic sports bars can be found at Blondie’s. And I’m going to let you in on a little tip! Make sure to snag a seat at the bar if you’re there to watch a game. It’s some of the best seating in the house and you feel like you’re in your own world.
Address: 212 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024, United States
Quick recap of the best sports bars in New York City
- Blondies
- Stout NYC
- Tap Haus 33
- Off The Wagon
- The Junction
- Legends
- Standings
- The Ainsworth
- Bounce Sporting Club
- Triona’s
- East End Bar & Grill
- The Three Monkey’s
- Mercury Bar West
- Turnmill
- All Star Sports Bar & Grill
- Yard House
- Pig N Whistle
- The Stumble Inn
- Smithfield
- Clara’s
- The Playwright Irish Pub
- 3 Sheets
- 11th Street Bar
- The Irish American Pub
- Clinton Hall
Sports bars NYC (Helpful Map)
And there you have it, folks! My roundup of the best sports bars in NYC. As always, don’t hesitate to let me know if I missed anything. Cheers!
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