In recent years, cord-cutting has become a way to save. Yet, it can lead to a major case of FOMO during big games, like the Super Bowl, March Madness or back-from-the-dead re-emergence of the “OMG” 2024 New York Mets.
Even if you didn’t nix cable, recent deals with streaming services have made some games pay-to-see-them-play.
Enter the humble sports bar. The exteriors may look unassuming, and you’re unlikely to find a white tablecloth (or cloth, more generally, in sight). However, you will find dozens of TVs and a lively atmosphere primed for making new best friends. The approachable menu also scores points with people looking for more comfort classics to go along with the unwritten come-as-you-are policy.
Andy’s Restaurant, 34 Front St., Greenport, 631-333-2525
This laid back Front Street pub with a patio outside is a sports lover’s paradise inside, with gigantic televisions behind the bar and in viewing distance from tables (about 10 total). Casual tailgate fare like potato skins, chili and mozzarella sticks are easy to nosh on between cheers. Monday through Friday happy hours (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) with $6 beers, wines and burgers are ideal for baseball matinees.
Phil’s Restaurant, 1856 Wading River Manor Road, Wading River, 631-929-0508
A royal blue bar greets guests to this mainstay sports bar-restaurant hybrid that’s accessible to up-Islanders and East Enders alike. Phil’s Restaurant has more TVs than Tom Brady has rings, and no-frills yet flavorful burgers, sandwiches and fried seafaring fare. Upscale but unpretentious entrees like steaks options, including noshable marinated filet mignon tidbits and a skirt steak with fried onion straws will keep you full through a double-overtime thriller.
Lucharitos, Multiple Locations
With locations in Aqeubogue, Greenport and Mattituck, Lucharitos Tex-Mex cuisine spice up gameday fare while still maintaining an air of Americana. Think BBQ pulled pork burritos and shrimp nachos. Vegetarians, rejoice, there are options for you, too. A spattering of televisions ensure your south-of-the-border trek doesn’t see you missing any of #SCTop10 material.
Legends, 835 1st St., New Suffolk, 631-734-5123
A casual bar and elevated restaurant has made Legends a prime pick for any kind of afternoon or evening. On the sports front, large TVs behind the bar and on walls make every seat in the house a good one. The New Suffolk restaurant is also offering in-house and to-go deals for the Super Bowl and March Madness — bottomless beer specials and soft pretzels drenched in beer cheese in-house. Make it well past halftime with a $10 espresso martini. To-go half and full trays of wings are also available for those who’d prefer to party in their living rooms.
CJ’s American Grill, 10095 Main Road, Mattituck, 631-315-5311
Found in a shopping center in the heart of the North Fork region, CJ’s American Grill feels decidedly all-American in an area full of establishments with Tuscan and French aesthetics. But you’ll find and taste many hometown heroes on the menu, including Osprey’s Dominion wines and veggies sourced from local farms. Sports fans have four TVs to choose from.
Digger’s Ales N’ Eats, 58 W Main St., Riverhead, 631-369-3200
An Irish pub with a menu that blends international and American styles, Digger’s Ales N’ Eats is a welcoming watering whole for all pallets. Think Asian salad with the crispiest wontons, New York burgers made with 8-ounce Angus beef and filet medallions for when you’re feeling a little fancy. Mum’s the word on whether Digger’s will offer extra Super Bowl specials. But a regular happy hour/NFL game menu includes $1 wings, $12 nacho platters, $6 craft pints and $6 house wines. Not one, not two, not three (LeBron followers know), but 10 TVs ensure no seat is a nosebleed.
Sophie’s Rest, 730 Main Bayview Road, Southold, 631-765-5700
A casual joint loved for its pizza and seafood, Sophie’s is also known for putting together winning Super Bowl parties. It gets underway more than seven hours before kick-off — Sophie’s is opening at 11 a.m. so people have plenty of time to sign up for a field goal kicking contest. Relive your gym class hero days (practice from 12:30-1:15 p.m. will help you brush off the dust — or dare we say, “shake it off”). Prizes and giveaways will be awarded. Whether you’re cheering on a kicker or participating yourself, drink and food specials will make everyone feel like they got the W.
