The Best Sports Bars In Washington, D.C.

Nellie’s Sports Bar

Nellie’s is the quintessential gay bar in the bustling U Street corridor, but it also caters to the sports enthusiasts. Its size and location make it the most bustling sports bar in the area. The place is always hopping — whether it’s Saturday night or Sunday afternoon for the NFL games, it’s packed to the brim. Nellie’s most popular feature is its weekend drag brunch. Sip mimosas and dine at a buffet as you watch stellar drag queens strut across the stage in heels that seemingly defy the laws of physics — but there are also sports games on upstairs.

This beloved neighborhood sports bar whips up food that will exceed all expectations of bar grub. The owner attended culinary school, and all menu options from the nachos, baked and loaded with real cheese, to the turkey avocado sandwich are delightful. There are also over 70 craft beers to choose from and a rotating draft lift that focuses on local breweries. Most importantly, a myriad of televisions, that can be changed to customer’s preference, fill both the upstairs and downstairs floors.

Pitch Tavern is a laidback neighborhood sports bar in Petworth. It prides itself on a community atmosphere, making everyone feel like family. The first level is more homey, while the second is modern and upscale; it’s the personal touches that keep everyone coming back. There is an excess of TVs, so no matter what game you’re searching for, The Pitch will be showing it.

The gastropub features a modern interior with exposed stripped brick and high ceilings; it’s a bit more upscale than other sports bars in the area. The constantly rotating seasonal menu offers options from crispy brussels sprouts and mushroom risotto to more traditional fare, like wings and barbecue pork sliders. This is more of a sit down and watch the game kind of venue.

Nestled between heaps of other bars on the busy U Street bar strip, The Prospect is easy to pass up — but you shouldn’t. This hidden gem maintains a loyal clientele and regular customer base, and the game crowds are lively and friendly. The weekday happy hour lasts until 8 p.m. and offers half off rail drinks and drafts.