10 Newport Beach Sports Bars Perfect for The Big Game
Kickoff is almost here. On February 8, football fans will be searching for where to watch the Super Bowl, and Newport Beach delivers with an impressive lineup of lively venues. From classic sports bars Newport Beach to laid back neighborhood hangouts, there is no shortage of bars to watch football with friends. Settle in, order a round and enjoy every drive, touchdown and celebration in a setting that brings the energy of game day to life.
Sports Bars
Stag Bar + Kitchen
A longtime favorite on the Balboa Peninsula, Stag Bar + Kitchen is known for its energetic crowd and serious dedication to sports. The drink menu highlights local craft beers, small batch spirits and rotating seasonal cocktails. Order a round, claim your spot and snack your way through sliders, wings, nachos, fries and more. On big game days, this bar fills up fast, so arrive early and be ready for a buzzing atmosphere from kickoff to final whistle.
Baja Sharkeez
Steps from the Newport Pier, Baja Sharkeez offers a lively beachside setting for football fans. Multiple TVs keep the game front and center while ocean air and pier views add to the experience. Start with queso and chips or buffalo wings, then move on to one of their well-known margaritas or the classic Corona-rita. Game days here feel like a party, making it an easy choice for an energetic Sunday.
Mutt Lynch’s
Few places capture the spirit of a Newport Beach football Sunday like Mutt Lynch’s. Known for generous beer pours and its prime pier side location, this spot draws a fun-loving crowd ready to cheer. Order a schooner, share plates of tenders, garlic knots or fried pickles, and settle in for an afternoon of nonstop action. Expect a loud, social scene that keeps the energy high all game long.
Irish Pubs
Malarky’s Irish Pub
With decades of history behind it, Malarky’s blends Irish charm with a lively game day crowd. The menu features hearty classics like corned beef and prime rib, along with staples like Guinness and Irish coffee. Whether you are stopping in for food, drinks or football, this pub delivers across the board.
Muldoon’s Irish Pub
Muldoon’s brings a refreshed take on the traditional Irish pub experience. Restaurant highlights include an outdoor courtyard, seasonal dishes and an impressive cocktail program, along with live DJs and bands. Football fans will appreciate the game day deals like discounted wings, drink specials and beer pitchers. With plenty of TVs throughout the space, missing a play is not an option here.
Upscale Bars
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
Set along the bay, Tavern House offers a more relaxed approach to watching the big game. The warm, inviting space pairs waterfront views with crave worthy comfort food. Brunch highlights include buttermilk fried chicken with malted waffles and hearty prime rib hash. Complement your meal with morning cocktails like a Tavern Mary or a blood orange mimosa and enjoy football with a scenic backdrop.
Newport Beach Whaler
While Newport Beach Whaler is famous for weekend nightlife, football Sundays bring a whole new vibe. The space shifts into a full-scale sports hub complete with wall to wall screens and a high energy crowd. Choose a seat by the outdoor fire feature or settle in near the central bar to catch every play. Pair the action with menu favorites like crispy calamari or birria street nachos, and wash it all down with a cold Whaler Lager.
Casual Bars
Helmsman Ale House
If craft beer is a must for game day, Helmsman Ale House delivers. This laid-back brewery pairs house made beers with elevated comfort food and plenty of screens for uninterrupted viewing. Grab a spot indoors or outside and dig into fan favorites like their oversized Bavarian pretzel served with IPA cheese sauce and spicy mustard. Weekday happy hour runs from midafternoon into early evening, with Monday offering deals all day long. Weekends bring brunch until 2 p.m., making this a great choice whether you arrive early or stay late for football season specials and watch party events.
Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill
Cruisers is the go to spot for classic game day comfort in Balboa Village. Known for its Chicago style stuffed pizzas, this casual restaurant also serves beer and cocktails in oversized schooners. With dozens of large screens throughout the space, including a massive 4K projector, there is not a bad seat in the house for football fans of all ages.
The Village Inn
Hop on the ferry to Balboa Island and spend game day at The Village Inn alongside locals. This old school bar blends sports viewing with live entertainment throughout the week. Sit outside on the patio or grab a seat at the bar to watch the game unfold. Do not leave without trying signature Bloody Mary, a favorite among regulars.
