Bugsy's Sports Bar - Upstate VA?

When I stepped into Bugsy’s Sports Bar, I was immediately transplanted from Old Town Alexandria to upstate New York—for better or worse. You would think Washington DC is a hockey town judging from this old yet cozy watering hole. If there is an ice hockey game being played, you can be sure they will be tuned in. But don’t expect to be watching it on upgraded plasma as their televisions are one step removed from necessitating a converter box. Bunny ears and tin foil anyone? Maybe this adds to the small town hockey atmosphere for some, but I enjoy actually seeing the puck go into the net.

Old sports memorabilia adorns the walls, most with local flavor. The owner is a former NHL player for the Washington Capitals (among other teams) so it makes sense that the bar would pay homage to the sport that he loves. The walls are brick and the wood flooring, barstools, and tables are all worn. There is a certain rustic charm that you cannot ignore, despite the need for electronic upgrades. The clientele? It is pretty much who you would expect to find at a Hockey game. Fans, clad in jersey’s or old t-shirts and jeans, down pitchers and smoke cigs. You don’t need to dress up, and the atmosphere is more-than-casual. The occasional late night argument between rival enforcers is not unheard of.

The food is good—standard bar fare, not expensive, but tasty. Also, you can choose to dine at the Pizza Restaurant downstairs if you so desire. The bartender is friendly, there seem to be a host of regulars, and with the Caps having their best season ever, why not?