Here are 8 Pittsburgh sports bars to check out during NCAA Tourney
As NCAA basketball fans from Philadelphia and Chicago to Chattanooga and Houston and points in between descend upon the Steel City for four days of tournament action, many will be looking for sports bars to celebrate wins or watch games on off days.
In many cases, fans will be on the lookout for Pittsburgh sports bars where they can check in on the action involving some of the other 64 teams from around the country – where music is replaced by the sound of bouncing balls, squeaking sneakers and screaming announcers on the sound systems.
And, of course, where good food and drink is available that might be more reasonably priced than what’s served up at PPG Paints Arena.
With all that in mind, and in no particular order, here are eight Pittsburgh sports bars college hoops fans can visit.
Talk about a big-league atmosphere, City Works is located at the base of PPG Place in Market Square. Even if your favorite team flames out in the first round, you can find a new rooting interest while watching the rest of the action on 15 extra-large HDTVs with state-of-the-art audio. And with 90 craft beers and eight wines on tap, highlighting more than 30 local breweries, you won’t leave thirsty.
Redbeard’s on Sixth (144 6th St.)
Contrary to popular belief, Redbeard’s on Sixth was not named after former Pirates infielder Colin Moran, although it could have been named for former UCLA basketball star Bill Walton, who sported a similarly full red beard. Located in the heart of Downtown, Redbeard’s is more of a Pirates bar, but the start of the season has been delayed so college basketball will no doubt dominate the extensive wall of TV monitors behind the bar this weekend.
Cupka’s Café II (2314 E. Carson St.)
Cupka’s Café II has an old-timey feel to it that makes you think that at any minute, hard-drinking, former Steelers quarterback Bobby Layne is going walk in, grab the chair next to you and ask “What are ya havin’?” But the place has more of a college sports feel to it – it’s the former home of Pitt football coach Pat Narduzzi’s weekly radio show. Cupka’s features enough college sports memorabilia to open a souvenir shop.
Primanti Bros. (1832 E. Carson St.)
Another popular spot for Pitt football and basketball fans is the Primanti Bros. location on the South Side. Blue and gold-clad Panthers fans can be found lining the bar to view the action on large TVs on game days. Out-of-towners often seek out the iconic Primanti’s sandwich featuring the meat and fries etc., smashed together on Italian bread. This weekend they can combine the food with the college basketball viewing experience.
Mario’s South Side Saloon (1514 E. Carson St.)
Sports fans who come to Pittsburgh must be made to realize that this is the City of Champions. If they weren’t aware already, Mario’s South Side Saloon will bring to their attention that the Steel City is home to arguably the greatest sports dynasties of all time. Look in any direction in this place and you will see a championship banner or jersey of an all-time great Steelers, Pirates, Penguins, Pitt or Duquesne athlete. And from the fried pierogies to the burgers, the food is delicious.
North Shore Tavern (120 Federal St.)
From the South Side to the North Shore, just across the Clemente Bridge (but don’t try to use that bridge, as it’s currently closed) is a place called the North Shore Tavern, frequented by Pirates fans in particular and sports fans in general. It’s in a great location, across Federal Street from PNC Park. The Pirates décor provides plenty to gawk at, but this place might have the best food of any sports bar in town. The Steak on a Stone enables customers to cook their steak exactly the way they want it.
Mike’s Beer Bar (110 Federal St.)
Located next door to the North Shore Tavern and owned by the same guy, Mike Sukitch, Mike’s Beer Bar is definitely the place for college basketball fans who like, well, beer. The place ought to be able to satisfy any beer fan’s particular tastes. After all, they have more than 500 to choose from and are only too happy to provide a sample of the beers you’ve never heard of but are curious about trying. And like its next-door neighbor, there are plenty of TVs, so no matter which way you turn, you can see the games.
Burn by Rocky Patel (346 North Shore Drive)
Former Boston Celtics basketball coach and executive Red Auerbach was known to celebrate the 16 NBA championships he led his organization to by lighting up a cigar. College hoops fans in Pittsburgh can indulge in that same tradition at Burn by Rocky Patel along North Shore Drive near the ballpark. General manager Michael Milinkovic has been running the place since it opened four years ago and is a very welcoming fellow. He’s very noticeable because he’s often dressed in black and gold, the official colors of the City of Champions.
Related:
• Pittsburgh dining options aplenty during the NCAA Tournament
• Pittsburgh sightseeing options
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