Photography by Dan Austin
Classic dishes and guilty pleasures that have become game-day staples at Lakeland sports bars — because watching the game is only half the fun.
Aside from being at the stadium, these establishments are the ideal spots to be on game day. They encompass the perfect combination of appetizing bar food, even-better drink deals, and the dive-ish vibes we’ve all grown fond of. Yes, we’re talking about sports bars here. They are not only noted for their ability to televise the big game — because we can catch that anywhere. They complete the game-day experience by providing a place of camaraderie perfectly mixed with a loaded menu of classic dishes and guilty pleasures. Here is our pick of local sports bars and grill chains offering a winning mix of the best games and top menu items.
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[separator type=”space”]Glory Days | Dry Rubbed Wings
Smoked and seasoned with their signature dry rub blend, making it their crispiest wing. These wings are made complete with a drizzle of tangy buffalo sauce and garlic aioli blend.[separator type=”space”]
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[separator type=”space”]BRASS TAP | L.A. Kogi Dog
One-quarter-pound, all-beef hot dog; mayo; Kogi slaw; pickled red onions; secret-weapon sauce; Cojita cheese on a toasted sub roll paired with Brussels Sprouts.[separator type=”space”]
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[separator type=”space”]BEEF O’ BRADY’S | Fish N’ Chips
Four delicious beer-battered cod fillets fried golden brown and served with tartar sauce, fresh lemon, fries, and coleslaw
Traditional Wing Basket
Served with fries, coleslaw, and bleu-cheese dressing for dipping.
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SMOKEY BONES | Jumbo Smoke Wings
Giant, juicy, rubbed, house-smoked to double the intense flavor, then drizzled with a sweet glaze and dusted with house seasoning
Smoked Baby Back Ribs
Award-winning baby back ribs, smoked for four hours, fire-grilled, and glazed with sweet BBQ paired with Skillet Cornbread.
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7 more local sportsbars you can always count on to have the game on
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[item title=”WINNERS CIRCLE SPORTSBAR & GRILL”]
Known for its wings and burgers, Winners Circle Sportsbar & Grill features great food, an amazing atmosphere, and more than enough big-screen TVs to watch any game.
4215 South Florida Avenue
863.644.9464
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[item title=”MOJO’S”]
It describes itself as “home to the coldest beer in town.” If that’s not enough, it also has award-winning wings.
1853 East Memorial Boulevard
863.583.9119
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[item title=”MILLER’S ALE HOUSE”]
With menu categories like “Starting Lineup” and “Two-Hand Grip,” this chain restaurant is great for the whole family.
5650 South Florida Avenue
863.709.9262
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[item title=”716 BURGERS & BREW”]
This proud neighborhood joint is an ideal location for many to not just view a major game but play their own in the bar.
2909 Duff Road
863.333.0671
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[item title=”LINKSTERS TAP ROOM”]
Pool table, flat-screen TVs, and poker — what more could a sports fan ask for?
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Downtown
209 East Main Street
863.683.7195
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North Lakeland
5189 US Hwy 98 North
863.606.5926
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[item title=”CHAMPS BAR & GRILL”]
The name speaks for itself if you’re looking for a spot to watch your favorite sport.
6645 South Florida Avenue
863.647.5900
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[item title=”WINGHOUSE OF LAKELAND”]
The end zone eats that are beautifully served are just one of the reasons this sports bar is a go-to.
4515 South Florida Avenue
863.646.0303
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[item title=”DECISIONS GRILL & BAR”]
The wings and beers are what make Decisions Grill & Bar a top spot for sports games.
1621 East Edgewood Drive
863.686.6441
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