Let’s be honest: Escondido isn’t exactly a sports mecca. But tucked between the avocado groves and suburban sprawl, you’ll find watering holes that make you forget you’re not in a major league city. Whether you’re chasing the perfect game-day wings, a cold pint with the game on every screen, or nachos worthy of a touchdown celebration, this list has your playbook. And if you just want to watch the game in peace, we’ve got options for that, too.
Hooters
$$ | (858) 451-6000 | WEBSITE
Since launching their signature wings in 1983, this lively sports bar chain has cultivated a devoted fan base—and that fan base should definitely include you. Beyond offering a fun environment with TVs and a cheerful atmosphere, Hooters will serve up a variety of wings, sauces, and bar classics with a smile. Everything arrives with a friendly touch and somehow manages to feel satisfying, like the excellent boneless wings and crispy fries.
The chicken garden salad (without chicken) is also a winner, and a lesson in freshness—just crisp greens, vegetables, and dressing in a chilled bowl. It’s what a bar salad aspires to be. The staff, including Cadence, Makayla, and Presley, works efficiently and professionally, often exceeding expectations, while frosty beer glasses and a clean, well-maintained space round out the enjoyable experience.
Phil’s BBQ
$ | (858) 312-6161 | WEBSITE
Phil’s BBQ is on a stretch of Escondido teeming with casual dining spots. You might wonder: What makes this barbecue joint stand out? Is it because of the generous portions? Or is it the clean, welcoming environment and the friendly staff that greets you at the counter? Yes to all of the above.
But our love for this place is primarily because of the incredible BBQ—like the tender El Toro sandwich dripping with their unique sauce, or a half rib dinner piled so high with smoky meat it’s almost comical. Bring your hungriest friends to one of Escondido’s best sports bars and get to work gnawing and savoring.
Side Yard Public House
$ | (760) 297-1051 | WEBSITE
Side Yard Public House is a family-owned spot that shares its peaceful vibe with the surrounding neighborhood. This restaurant caters to locals, sports fans, and anyone else looking for a cozy place to unwind. But Side Yard feels more lively, with live music, a crowd for game days on the back patio, and a typically bustling dining area.
And yes, you can enjoy the rotating beers, but this isn’t the time for hesitation—go all in on the burgers, whether that’s a juicy classic cheeseburger, or chicken sandwiches and fries. And, since this is technically a sports bar, catch a game on the TVs. There’s a 100% chance you won’t leave without a smile, so don’t hold back.
Applebee’s Grill + Bar
$ | (760) 743-6612 | WEBSITE
Head straight for the classics section at Applebee’s Grill + Bar in Escondido. That’s where you’ll discover menu staples like the Fiesta Lime Chicken that’ll make you want to give each bite a standing ovation, sizzling steaks with grilled onions and mushrooms a hearty handshake, and those famous mashed potatoes—seriously, the best in town—a warm, buttery hug. Oh, and there’s also a solid lineup of vegetarian options and seafood dishes, too.
Just be prepared to indulge—enjoying those complimentary birthday brownies with vanilla ice cream takes some restraint, appreciation, and being totally fine with a little extra whipped cream on your fork.
Kelly’s Pub
$ | (858) 613-3649 | WEBSITE
Originally from the East Coast, Kelly’s Pub has officially become an Escondido classic, too. This spot does a great job of highlighting its signature pool tables within an otherwise traditional pub menu. You’ll find all the pub favorites you’d expect (there’s a whole section devoted to burgers), along with satisfying sandwiches and happy hour deals. Kelly’s makes a great case that pool and pints is the best way to do dive bar fun.
CoLab Public House – Vista
$$ | (760) 539-9261 | WEBSITE
Not only does this Escondido sports bar have the best sweet potato fries we’ve encountered in Vista, but it’s also a blast. The airy and spacious restaurant has good music and a delicious selection of drinks—order a not-too-bitter IPA. Along with the aforementioned sweet potato fries, the menu has other highlights. There are plates of delectable sliders and the excellent Baby’s burgers served with a side of games to play. We’d like to think they’re beckoning us to stay longer.
Mike’s BBQ / Smokehouse Pizza
$$ | (760) 746-4444 | WEBSITE
Mike’s BBQ / Smokehouse Pizza is one of those spots you probably know about but don’t often choose for a casual meal. The Escondido restaurant is basically the barbecue equivalent of a sports bar, and you’re most likely not planning on dealing with that kind of service wait regularly. But it’s still really good, and it’s always a reliable place to catch a game. Load up on the tasty Mac and cheese or the big kids’ meal, or really anything involving smoked meats.
Also consider visiting during a Padres game for a more lively setting.
Scotland Yard – The Pub
$ | (760) 941-2072 | WEBSITE
This welcoming dive bar near Escondido’s Moonlight Amphitheater is from the hands-on owners who care about making it a comfortable and enjoyable place for everyone. As with their approach, there’s no pretense required for a successful visit to Scotland Yard—although it ideally includes one of their regular cocktails that are better than expensive fancy ones.
Treat the bar like your living room, and whether you land on a chill conversation with sincere bartenders, great music that sparks intellectual discussions, or simply bringing your own food to enjoy the affordable, cool atmosphere, it’s a bullseye. This neighborhood spot is popular, so arrive early before events at the nearby park.
Frankies
$ | (760) 291-8319 | WEBSITE
Frankies is a neighborhood gem that calls itself a sports bar, but is actually a great Baja-inspired comfort food spot in disguise. There are perfectly cooked chicken street tacos that come with the expected (lime, cilantro) and the unexpected (a smoky chipotle crema that adds just the right kick). The chicken flaunts are thick and flavorful, with crispy edges and tender meat that pairs perfectly with one of their local IPAs.
And for the sports-averse, there’s an excellent selection of beers and a convenient location so easy to access, it’s singlehandedly doing its part to end the search for a reliable unwind spot.
Surfing Crab Escondido
$$ | (760) 270-2551 | WEBSITE
Surfing Crab Escondido, a lively spot that’s been around a few years, is a fun crab-themed restaurant in Escondido. Get some seafood boil bags and raw oysters—then the fried rice, spicy Cajun, and classic Asian options for good measure. Fried items are available and also good, but they’re more of a supplement to the boiled stuff. Plan on paying around $25–$40 per person unless you’re catching one of their good specials instead.
Bubba’s Smokehouse BBQ
$ | (858) 551-4227 | WEBSITE
At this point, Bubba’s Smokehouse BBQ is synonymous with consistent barbecue, amazing service, and family-owned charm. This spot focuses on smoked meats (of course) and there’s the added bonus of eating in a space that feels like a rustic Texas roadhouse. You’ll see a steady parade of baby back ribs go by, but don’t let them distract you from ordering the smoky and tender sliced brisket.
Besides the food, the biggest draw of Bubba’s Smokehouse BBQ might be the warm atmosphere and one of the best barbecue experiences in Escondido.
Islands Restaurant Carmel Mountain
$ | (858) 485-8075 | WEBSITE
Islands Restaurant Carmel Mountain is a tropical-themed sports bar in Escondido that’s become a go-to spot for locals since it opened. And Islands is all about that laid-back, fun atmosphere with creative drinks, so you’ve got to be in the mood for exactly that when you go, which is kind of a rule when it comes to enjoying a lively bar experience. The grilled Jalapeños burger is their standout, but bowls, fish tacos, and other burgers are all appropriate choices.
