When it comes to professional sports, I’m 100 percent a football fan. I grew up watching the games with my folks, throwing big Sunday NFL parties in true all-American fashion. We’re all about it: the jerseys, the big TV, and the spread of food. And I would argue that almost as important as the game itself is the food. There are definite staples that come to mind when you think about game-watching grub: chicken wings, nachos, ribs, pizza, chili. Take your pick! One thing is for certain that watching football is no fun without the proper tasty teammates. So if you can’t (or don’t want to) throw your own Sunday football party, where is the best place to watch the game with delicious, not run-of-the-mill bar food?

Freddy Smalls

On the west side off Pico Blvd. is Freddy Smalls. It’s not a huge place, but it has several flat screen TVs and Charlie Palmer’s inventive but not over-the-top menu. To be honest, this place is a top choice. The menu offers reinterpreted staples. Take the Reuben for example. Made with corned beef, bone marrow, and caramelized sauerkraut, it’s so good that it will make you cry. Or try a jar of pickles with some barbecue nuts and warm mixed olives. Other tasty small plates include the ever-popular fried Brussels sprouts, velvety-smooth chicken liver pate on toast, and devilled eggs. This place is definitely worth your next game-day foodie stop. Did I mention their very attractive draft beer selection?

11520 W Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 479-3000

The Parlor Hollywood

The next place offers a much larger space and far more TVs. The Parlor Hollywood off Melrose Ave. boasts a gastro pub menu in a lounge-like atmosphere.  A dry-aged burger adorns the menu, as do chicken wings in either a Basque-style or Thai chili. Others staples come in the forms of pizzas, ale-glazed meatballs, or white truffle fries. There’s also a wallet-friendly happy hour and an extensive booze list to boot.

7250 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 930-2100

38 Degrees Ale House and Grill

Lastly, if you don’t mind a slight drive, check out 38 Degrees Ale House and Grill. Located in Alhambra, it will be worth your trek. With 38 different beers on tap every day (and awesome craft beers at that), this place aims to please the beer aficionado and foodie alike. An attractive list of gourmet burgers will certainly whet your appetite, and why not start with green bean fries, mac and cheese, or wings? A lovely selection of salads is also offered for the less gluttonous guests.

100 W Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
(626) 282-2038

This weekend, go out, and watch some football. Just be sure to check out one of these restaurant or bars for a guaranteed good view of a TV and a better-than-average game-day meal.