If you’re in Arlington, the reality is you’re a short drive from some sports bar promising cold beer and big screens. And while that’s not necessarily a bad thing, it also doesn’t mean all those places are good. For every spot you’re thankful to have on game day, there are two bland, overpriced hacks just trying to take your money. So skip that $12 domestic draft that tastes like regret, and go somewhere you can actually enjoy the game.
We’ve rounded up the best very places, organized by neighborhood—so you’re never too far from a proper game-day experience.
Home Plate at Texas Rangers Golf Club
$ | (817) 575-8299 | WEBSITE
This Rangers-adjacent spot takes the whole sports bar thing to almost comical levels (you can practically smell the golf course from your table), but it’s redeemed by the fact that the food is genuinely satisfying. It’s also incredibly affordable and the service never leaves you waiting. Oh, and that Rangers Burger? Secretly some of the best in Arlington. Seriously.
The Chuggin’ Monk
$ | (817) 274-2000 | WEBSITE
It’s entirely possible that the sports fans crowding the big-name bars around Arlington don’t eat anything except stadium nachos and overpriced wings, but that just means more Chuggin’ Monk for us. Tucked away from the main drag, this little dive has both the expected (blue cheese wings that hit the spot) and the unexpected (pizza that reviewers swear is 100% perfect).
We still don’t really know how they get pool, darts, and foosball all in one space, but it’s a lively setup, so we’re guessing it’s good for fun.
BoomerJack’s Grill
$ | (817) 275-5400 | WEBSITE
This sports bar in Arlington should be an all-out nightmare (and when games are on, it is). But on a weekday at 1pm, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better casual lunch spot. If you’re looking for something substantial, the teriyaki glazed salmon with mashed potatoes and veggies is your move, and the flavorful burgers aren’t just the ones you see on TV during commercials, they’re also really good.
No Frills Grill & Sports Bar – Arlington, TX
$ | (817) 478-1766 | WEBSITE
Over on that convenient rear entrance largely dominated by sports fans trying to find the parking lot, No Frills Grill & Sports Bar is known for having some of the best standard bar fare in the area and one thing you don’t often see at places like this: a wide selection of beers. Your friends have been talking up the taco queso all week because it’s fantastic and sometimes you need a beer with that appetizer.
BFF ASIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR
$$ | (817) 385-0760 | WEBSITE
Unsurprisingly, there are plenty of wings and fried rice options on offer for game day in Arlington, and if you want an Asian-inspired version of either (that won’t be overly greasy), BFF should be your stop. The dishes are mostly well-seasoned, many of the items can be shared for groups, and there are vermicelli and roll options for when you’re not feeling quite so indulgent. There’s also a patio seating area with a bar for when you want to enjoy the atmosphere outdoors.
Texas Live!
$$ | (817) 852-6688 | WEBSITE
Unless you’re living your best sports fan life, a visit to Texas Live! probably isn’t an everyday occurrence, but on game days, or when you have friends in town for an event, it doesn’t get much better. There are burgers, wings, and plenty of bar food with a Southwest twist, meaning while your fellow fans can indulge in a pimento burger, you can keep things classic with wings featuring a barbecue rub.
The space includes shops, restaurants, and a large sports-themed bar, plus a partially covered outdoor area with fountains where you can relax between plays. With hundreds of televisions, a mega screen, and reasonable prices at the bars, it’s all you need in one place for pre- and post-game excitement.
At&t Stadium Sports Bar
$$ | (817) 892-5800 | WEBSITE
Tucked inside the massive AT&T Stadium complex, AT&T Stadium Sports Bar is one of our go-to spots for game day in Arlington. We realize cashless payments and limited drink options aren’t the most convenient setup you could find, but you could also do a lot worse when you’re looking for that authentic stadium atmosphere.
Hooters
$ | (817) 265-3861 | WEBSITE
Your rowdy group of friends is going to love Hooters. From those famous wings to the lively atmosphere, this Arlington spot might be loud, but it’s also full of tasty bar food that’s perfect for game day. The move here is definitely the Dayton beach smoked wings from chef Erick, but they also accommodate large parties up to 25 people, meaning your whole crew can watch the game together.
Servers like Kyler and Erica keep drinks filled with their cheerful, attentive service, though things can slow down when it’s packed. With good music pumping and that positive staff energy, it’s exactly where you want to be for sports and wings.
J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill
$ | (817) 274-8561 | WEBSITE
Right in the heart of Arlington, this decades-old Irish pub is nothing more than a spacious sports bar with plenty of TVs and communal tables, but you don’t come to J. Gilligan’s for a quiet, intimate dinner. You come here to get what’s probably the best Irish nachos in town (the Irish Nachos can’t be beat) and to watch the game with friends in rowdy camaraderie.
Sports & Social Arlington
$$ | (817) 769-1746 | WEBSITE
A proper sports bar experience at Arlington’s go-to game-day spot also involves ignoring things like the queso loaded fries with carnitas and giant portions of comfort food. But these people know how to make a crowd-pleasing favorite. The atmosphere stays lively, but expect highlights like generous portions with delectable flavors, something involving attentive service, and always a memorable dining experience for all guests.
Greedy’s Arlington
$ | (972) 522-7800 | WEBSITE
Plenty of sports bars only offer the illusion of being a great hangout spot—that generic chain with endless TVs isn’t really doing you any favors. But Greedy’s Arlington won’t make you regret your night out. From the catfish nuggets to the fish salad that some say is amazing, most of the menu is both decent and pretty satisfying. The lively atmosphere with a DJ and great music provides a superb vibe, while the bartenders and waitstaff, like Leah, offer attentive and excellent service.
Guests often enjoy the chill, intimate environment to hang out, watch the game, or listen to a DJ on a Thursday or Friday night. Special deals like wings for 50 cents each on Wednesdays and buy 1 get 1 free appetizers make it a good spot for celebrations like birthdays. However, some guests have noted service issues, with feelings of being ignored or mistreated based on race, which can affect the overall experience.
The restaurant is on the smaller side, so seating can be close, but there are spacious patio areas for more comfort. Parking is plentiful, with large areas nearby with other stores and restaurants, and the space is wheelchair accessible with plenty of tables.
Mac’s Tavern & Grill – Karaoke Bar
$ | (817) 649-1700 | WEBSITE
Could we really write this guide and not include Mac’s? Karaoke might not involve a whole lot of vitamin intake, but it sure is healthier than that burrito you were considering. With a laid-back and chill neighborhood vibe, always-fun atmosphere, and unbeatable prices, Mac’s is one of our go-to hangouts. If you’re in the mood for music, check out the DJ’s karaoke sessions.
Scooters Sports Bar & Grill
$ | (817) 476-6048 | WEBSITE
Scooters Sports Bar & Grill is definitely not a quiet neighborhood pub. It’s a lively, family-friendly sports bar in Arlington that is always one pool table away from being completely overwhelming. And while watching every game on the dozens of screens might be reserved for only die-hard fans and maybe fantasy league players, your move is to the buffalo wings and tater tots. They’re our favorite in town, and you can make a mean meal and still hover around the $15 mark.
At the bar, it’s all about the Voodoo Ranger.
Lucky Spa
$$ | (817) 966-5208 | WEBSITE
Lucky Spa is nestled in Arlington, and at first glance, doesn’t seem too different than all the other wellness spots that pop up every month in this area. It’s cozy and comfortable, they offer 90-minute massages, and just about every treatment involves skilled hands. But the difference is everything in those sessions is actually pretty effective, and the atmosphere itself is surprisingly tranquil.
From Hamish’s expertise in extremities to Katie’s relaxing massage to Judy’s deep tissue work, Lucky Spa is that rare combination of being affordable and also not generic.
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux – Arlington Restaurant
$$ | (817) 617-2137 | WEBSITE
Your friends are die-hard sports fans and complaining once again about where to catch the game and grab a solid meal. Point them to Walk-On’s, an Arlington staple and one of the only real sports bistreaux in the area that’s consistently worth the trip. The feel inside is lively and welcoming – much closer to a family-friendly gathering spot than a typical bar that just serves wings and beer.
And while Walk-On’s doesn’t shy away from the classic sports bar situation, their red fish with crawfish sauce actually tastes like a legitimate restaurant dish.
America’s Sports Bar
$ | (214) 952-6710 | WEBSITE
When you just can’t watch another predictable game, America’s Sports Bar is the answer. This Arlington spot is serving up some of the most entertaining nights in the city right now, with the added bonus that a lot of it is actually pretty affordable. The experience here isn’t just a sports bar – it’s a treasure hunt with things like karaoke and live music hidden under what looks like a standard neighborhood hangout.
Old School Pizza Tavern
$ | (682) 421-0760 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Arlington, Old School Pizza Tavern looks like just another casual sports bar you’d find in any Texas suburb. And honestly, it kind of is. Except for the fact that the pizza is actually consistently good. And with options like the Chicken Alfredo pizza and a solid selection of local beers, you won’t have to settle for mediocre bar food either. The medium-sized pies are generous enough to share, making it perfect for groups or taking leftovers home.
Service has noticeably improved lately, with attentive staff who actually seem to enjoy their jobs. The cheese bread remains a crowd-pleaser, and the daily specials keep things interesting. It’s the kind of comfortable spot where you can actually look forward to coming back.
Shift 4 Arena
$$ | (817) 769-1550 | WEBSITE
Shift 4 Arena is known (in Arlington, where it’s located) for its sports bar atmosphere that does a pretty good job of capturing the game-day excitement. But if you’re trying to avoid crowds, that’s probably not the direction you should go in here. Which is fine, because they also have some pretty tasty burgers and a reliable selection of bar snacks. If you choose to add some onion rings to the mix, we will not judge.
Flavors Wings N Daiquiris (Wings, Daiquiris, & Catfish)
$ | (817) 583-6517 | WEBSITE
Flavors Wings N Daiquiris hardly needs an introduction. The Arlington spot is a go-to destination for sports fans and food lovers alike and has pretty much come to define casual dining in the area right now. Here’s the good news – it’s all worth it. Sure, we aren’t counting any calories on those Hot Suga wings or that catfish plate, but throughout the menu, Flavors delivers quality, flavorful food that’s better than just about anything else.
You’re probably getting the hot lemon pepper wings, but everything else is just as worthy of an order.
