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The Ultimate Guide to Sarasota’s Sports Bars & Restaurants for Game Day

The Ultimate Guide to Sarasota’s Sports Bars & Restaurants for Game Day

by | Jul 22, 2024

If you’re searching for the ultimate game day experience in Sarasota, look no further than our beloved city’s vibrant array of sports bars and restaurants. Imagine yourself surrounded by fellow fans, the air buzzing with anticipation and excitement as your favorite team plays. The energy is palpable, the cheers infectious, and the sense of community overwhelms. Sarasota offers an unmatched experience for sports enthusiasts, from breweries and dog-friendly bars to family-friendly spots and sports bars boasting seasonal menus. There’s truly something for every type of fan.

The beauty of watching a game in Sarasota is the sheer variety of venues available to cater to your every need. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft beer at a local brewery, want to enjoy the game with your furry friend by your side, or are looking for a family-friendly environment that offers something for everyone, Sarasota has it all. These spots don’t just offer a place to watch the game; they provide an experience complete with high-definition televisions, mouthwatering food, flowing beers, and an atmosphere that can’t be beaten.

Kick off game day with an array of craft beers at a local Sarasota brewery.
Kick-off game day with an array of craft beers at a local Sarasota brewery.  Source: visitsarasota.com

One of Sarasota’s top destinations for game day is Big Top Brewing Co. Recently opened in Fruitville Commons, it’s not just a brewery; it’s a community hub. Here, the circus-themed ambiance complements the local craft brews, including favorites like the Hazy Sky Wire NEPA and Circus City IPA. The expansive beer garden and gastropub-style menu ensure you’re well-fed and refreshed. Big Top offers an unbeatable setup with flat-screen TVs indoors and a wrap-around bar outside, perfect for enjoying the game under the Florida sun.

For those who can’t bear to leave their four-legged friends behind, Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar presents the perfect solution. Combining the love for sports and pets, Boo’s allows your dogs to frolic in the off-leash park while you savor wood-fired pizzas and craft beers, all with a backdrop of multiple sports games on TV. Evie’s Tavern & Grill and its sister locations offer diverse experiences, from waterfront dining at Evie’s on the Bay to family fun at Evie’s Family Golf Center, ensuring that there’s something for every fan.

Evie's on the Bay: A scenic spot to catch the game and enjoy great food.
Evie’s on the Bay: A scenic spot to catch the game and enjoy great food.  Source: visitsarasota.com

Gecko’s Pub and Grill, a fixture in Sarasota since 1992, has been voted “Best Sports Bar” for a reason. With six locations, it’s known for its delicious, seasonally-focused American bar fare, including fruits and vegetables sourced from local sustainable farms. Meanwhile, Pop’s Sunset Grill offers a unique “Old Florida” waterfront vibe, perfect for enjoying the game with a side of live music and fresh local seafood. With vast seating options and an impressive menu, it’s a game-day paradise.

Siesta Key Oyster Bar, affectionately known as SKOB, offers an escape to the beach with DIRECTV’s NFL Sunday Ticket for sports enthusiasts. Its open-air setup, delicious seafood, and daily live music create a laid-back atmosphere. For a more intimate viewing experience, Tamiami Tap presents a cozy venue with open-air dining and a casual coastal environment. Don’t forget The Big Tiki Lounge in Siesta Key Village, where the beach vibe meets game day excitement with specialty cocktails, bar games, and live music.

In conclusion, Sarasota’s sports bars and restaurants offer a game-watching haven for all. With a range of venues that cater to different preferences, whether it’s the food, atmosphere, or the company you keep (including pets!), there’s a perfect spot for everyone. These establishments not only provide a place to watch the game but also serve as community gathering spots where memories are made, and traditions are born.

So, whether you’re a resident, a potential homebuyer, or a business owner in the neighborhood, embrace the vibrant spirit of Sarasota on game day. Check out these fantastic spots to not only enjoy the game but also to experience the warmth, excitement, and sense of belonging that our community has to offer. Here’s to good games, great food, and even better company. Cheers!

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