Best Sports Bar Near Me
in the State of California

Sports Bars and Game Day Scene in California

California’s sports scene is as diverse and dynamic as the state itself. From championship-level franchises to college powerhouses and international soccer followings, the Golden State thrives on competitive energy. Whether you’re catching a Dodgers game in L.A., a 49ers showdown in the Bay, or cheering for USC, UCLA, or Cal on Saturdays, the best sports bars near me in California are packed with flavor, fans, and flat screens. These game day bars fuse local culture with national fandom—bringing people together across every coast, city, and stadium.

2025 Trends for California Sports Bars

California sports bars in 2025 are all about experience and customization. Think AR-enhanced stat overlays, app-based ordering, and themed spaces for fantasy leagues. Rooftop sports lounges are big in SoCal, while NorCal leans into beer gardens and neighborhood microbrewery tie-ins. Vegan game-day menus, build-your-own nacho stations, and cocktail slushies with custom infusions are hot trends. Sports bars are also catering to global fans, showing international rugby, cricket, La Liga, and F1 alongside NFL, NBA, and MLB staples.

Vibe and Experience

From Venice Beach to downtown Oakland, California sports bars vary widely in style. L.A. brings glitzy lounges, fanfare, and celebrity sightings. San Francisco blends hipster energy with old-school Niners grit. San Diego, Long Beach, and Sacramento offer laid-back, welcoming atmospheres, while college towns like Berkeley and Davis turn into unofficial stadiums on game day. At every bar, expect a festive crowd, Instagram-worthy eats, and team spirit that spans coasts and cultures.

Food and Drink Focus

Menus are diverse and trend-forward: Korean BBQ wings, birria tacos, poke nachos, Impossible sliders, and Sriracha cauliflower bites are just as common as traditional burgers and fries. Craft beers from Golden Road, Sierra Nevada, and Russian River dominate taps, while agave spirits, Soju spritzers, hard kombucha, and THC-free cannabis cocktails are gaining ground. Brunch menus include ube pancakes, fried chicken Benedicts, and loaded mimosas in palm-sized goblets.

Best Cities for Sports Bars in California

Los Angeles

Catch every major league team (NFL, NBA, MLB, MLS, NHL) in bars that serve as shrines for Rams, Lakers, Dodgers, and more. Expect style and sound turned up to 10.

San Francisco

Niners, Warriors, and Giants fans pack rooftop bars, Mission pubs, and Marina lounges with true Bay Area fervor.

San Diego

Beachy but loud, SD bars bring Padres fans, fantasy leagues, and epic brunch-watch combos together with top-tier hospitality.

Sacramento

Underrated Kings fandom and a thriving beer scene give Sac bars serious local energy and die-hard spirit.

Top 10 Sports Bars in California

Tom’s Watch Bar – Los Angeles

Massive downtown spot near Crypto.com Arena with over 100 screens, stadium sound, and game-day food dreams. Website: tomswatchbar.com | Yelp: Tom’s LA | Google: Map

Golden Gate Tap Room – San Francisco

Located in Union Square with arcade games, multiple floors, and true Bay Area sports energy. Website: goldengatetaproom.com | Yelp: Golden Gate Tap Room | Google: Map

Gaslamp Tavern – San Diego

Downtown classic with a big Padres following, killer wings, and great happy hour specials. Website: gaslamptavern.com | Yelp: Gaslamp Tavern | Google: Map

The Sports Page – Mountain View

Bay Area tech crowd’s favorite dive with volleyball courts, affordable drinks, and constant games on. Website: sportspagebar.com | Yelp: Sports Page | Google: Map

Yard House – Multiple Locations

Modern chain with huge beer lists and prime viewing setups. Great for big groups and game nights. Website: yardhouse.com | Yelp: Yard House | Google: Map

Public House – San Francisco

Attached to Oracle Park, this upscale sports pub pours rare beers and hosts Giants fans pre- and post-game. Website: publichousesf.com | Yelp: Public House | Google: Map

Bleacher Bar – Los Angeles

West L.A. hideaway for sports fans with game-time food, pool tables, and an enthusiastic crowd. Website: bleacherbarla.com | Yelp: Bleacher Bar | Google: Map

Republic Bar & Grill – Sacramento

Popular Kings bar and college football destination with DJs, drink towers, and epic crowd energy. Website: republic916.com | Yelp: Republic | Google: Map

Legends – Long Beach

One of the first sports bars in America—still crushing it with old-school vibes, historic memorabilia, and loyal crowds. Website: legendssportsbar.com | Yelp: Legends | Google: Map

The Graduate – Davis

College classic with burger baskets, pitchers, and loud crowds every game night. Website: thegraduatedavis.com | Yelp: Graduate Davis | Google: Map