Crystal City Sports Pub – Best DC Venue for March Madness

Last week, Rhino Bar took on Penn Quarter Sports Tavern for the right to face Buffalo Billiards in the second round.

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern had ample representation from exuberant UConn and Villanova followers and thus earned a 15/20 for patronage. The bar is smaller and at times it was difficult to secure a good vantage point for watching the games. Also, more than half of the establishment was booked for the College Hockey tournament so they only receive an atmosphere score of 12/20. The service was average (10/20) as I had to wait for the bartenders attention on multiple occasions. And finally, I give them a 10/20 on intangibles, as I felt the bar did nothing to go above and beyond for the NCAA tournament.

Rhino Bar lacked the collegiate representation that I expected, and was actually eerily empty for the Saturday evening game. Still, the sporadic cheering and interest in the game was enough to score a 13/20 for patronage. I could take my pick of televisions and could hear the game commentary clearly. As a result, they received higher marks for atmosphere (14/20). The service, perhaps because it was so empty, was great. I had a beer in my hand at all times, helping to quell the heartburn brought on by the $.25 wings (my own lack of judgment). They get a 16/20 for service and a 12/20 for intangibles. Rhino Bar defeats PQ Sports Tavern 55-47 to advance and meet Buffalo Billiards in the semis.

Buffalo Billiards was just better suited for NCAA tournament action. They were absolutely filled to capacity last Thursday for the sweet sixteen match-ups. In fact, even before the game started they had multiple group happy hours already in attendance. The contrasting mix of hard core collegiate fans and those looking to socially network resulted in a mediocre patronage score (14/20). Their atmosphere score, however, by virtue of their many flat screens, was a 16/20. Buffalo Billiards seems understaffed for larger events. It is nearly impossible to get drinks at the back bar, and there is always a lack of seating. They scored relatively low marks for service (12/20). I gave them a 15/20 for intangibles resulting in a 57-55 victory over Rhino Bar and advancing them to the championship.

Buffalo Billiards’ low marks for service was the difference in their championship game against Crystal City Sports Pub. Even across all of the other criteria, Crystal City’s impeccable service earned them a 62-57 victory and the right to be called the best March Madness Venue in the DC area.

For complete reviews of these venues you can reference my previous blogs.

Rhino Bar & Pumphouse
Penn Quarter Sports Tavern
Buffalo Billiards
Crystal City Sports Pub

March Madness Update

Rhino Bar & Pumphouse - Sports in Georgeown!

When you think of Georgetown, the images of cozy coffee shops, trendy restaurants, and upscale shopping probably come to mind. You don’t necessarily think of sports bars. Still, Rhino Bar & Pumphouse, has carved out an interesting niche in this often times “swanky” town.

Located on M Street, just a rock toss from the Key Bridge, this sports bar is known for its professional and college football coverage, as well as being a Red Sox bar—during the MLB playoffs, transplanted Bostonians come in droves. Rhino Bar is a good venue for group congregation. It is dark, and a bit dingy, but they have ample televisions and plenty of room. In the Fall, they cater to Big Ten alumni, and are usually packed for the Ohio State and Penn State games. You will find the larger, more boisterous crowds upstairs, where long tables are usually covered with pitchers of beers and pizza. Recent Buckeye and Nittany Lion alum arrive early on Saturdays to claim their stake. If you get there at game time, you may be out of luck, especially if you are sober. Like any venue, when it gets too crowded, the small bathrooms can get a little skuzzy, and securing a drink at the bar can be increasingly frustrating. On Sundays, they have the NFL ticket, so Charger and Seahawk fans can take solace in at least getting some coverage in the DC area.

On nights that lack a big game, you will find local Georgetown and GW undergrads enjoying one of Rhino Bar’s many specials, whether it be half-priced beers, or $.25 wings. Their patrons run the gamut from jersey clad football fanatics to the more anticipated Georgetown crowd--popped collars and handbags to boot. The demographic battle is usually won depending what game is being aired. In any case, if you are looking for a sports pub in Georgetown, this is it. There is a lack of solid alternatives, although if the crowd is too overbearing, you can always walk three blocks east to Old Glory. It doesn’t have the coverage, but it also doesn’t have the crowd.

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern -- Cozy Coverage

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern has got a few advantages working in its favor in terms of sports coverage. First of all, its location is ideal. Situated five blocks south of the Verizon Center it is engulfed in the DC sports scene. As a result, it caters to the Caps and Wizards fans that can’t score tickets or those looking to catch away games. But don’t be fooled. The upstairs is decked out with college and football helmets, also providing the necessary setting for the gridiron fanatic. Secondly, they are diligent about posting events and details on their future television coverage, so you won’t get burned upon arrival and miss out on the specific sporting event that you are anticipating.

While all of their televisions have been recently upgraded, their organizational meticulousness is required, as they do not have an overabundance of flat screens. And with two relatively cozy levels, it can get crowded. Also, the tight quarters can bring about challenging viewing angles when it is congested. And while they do not have the game coverage of larger venues like Crystal City Sports Bar, or Buffalo Billiards, they do an ample job of managing expectations. Check their website to make sure the game of your choice is playing. It’s a safe assumption that the local teams will be televised, but others may require some follow up.

Because of its size, the service is prompt. You are always within eye contact of the bartenders and waiters so your beer mug will remain filled and you can evade the service frustration that accompanies those larger sporting venues. For more popular events, you may want to opt for a larger establishment, but for your run-of-the-mill local sports, Penn Quarter Sports Tavern has everything you need—good service, ample equipment, and an energetic atmosphere.

DC Bar Challenge Update

It was a great first weekend in the NiteNetwork DC Bar Challenge. Nellie's took on Bugsy's Sports Bar in the opening round of the tournament and scored a decisive victory 55-25 to advance to the second round.

Bugsy’s just didn’t have the goods to compete. The antiquated televisions and lack of game coverage gave them an atmosphere score of 10/20. The service was questionable as my chicken parmesan sandwich magically morphed into an order of buffalo wings. Moreover, there was a substantial wait for beer refills. As a result, they scored a mere 5/20 on service. The bar was not packed, and many seemed indifferent about the games, perhaps disappointed with the lack of Hockey coverage. In fact, in seemed as though they had their consistent draw of regulars, rather than an influx of college basketball fans. They get a 5/20 score for patronage. And finally, there was a Bud Light Promotion, but it was a feeble attempt at drawing a crowd. The Bud Light cheerleader was selling 5$ Bud Light drafts. That’s right, one dollar more than the Miller Lights I was drinking. The plastic basketball hoop was more of a distraction than an allure, and so they receive a meager 5/20 for intangibles, giving them a total of 25 points.

Nellie’s Sports Bar, on the other hand, was equipped to handle a much larger crowd, with far more flat screens. The university banners in the back added to the collegiate tone. They earned a 12/20 for atmosphere and backed it up with consistent and punctual service (15/20). The cheering and interest in the games earned them a 13/20 for patronage and I gave them a 15/20 for intangibles. As a result, they scored 55 points, en route to a runaway victory over Bugsy’s 55-25.

Nellie’s advanced on to the second round where they played valiantly against second seeded Crystal City Sports Pub. Crystal City, however, had too much firepower, edging them out 62-55. They had too many televisions, all visible, and had posters advertising the game line-ups. The state-of-the-art sound system puts patrons courtside for the games and so they earned a 17/20 for atmosphere. The service was impeccable, as both my hands were full throughout the evening, and despite the lack of tables, a bartender actually set up stools for our appetizers. For service they received high marks (17/20). As for patronage, it was evident that collegiate basketball fanatics regularly congregate here. The noise level and enthusiasm earned them a 15/20 for patronage. And finally, I gave them a 13/20 for intangibles, enough to solidify a 62-55 victory and advance to the championship.

For complete reviews of these venues, you can check out my previous reviews.

Bugsy’s Sports Bar
Nellie’s Sports Bar
Crystal City Sports Pub

Nellie's Sports Bar -- Debunking Stereotypes

The prospect of me, an ex-athlete with “meathead like” tendencies, attending a gay bar by myself to watch the NCAA tournament seems outlandish. Nevertheless, last Saturday, I found myself downing Miller Lights at Nellie’s Sports Bar on U Street, alone, watching Duke scrape by Texas by the slightest or margins.

Societal stereotypes dictate that the mere existence of a gay sports bar is a paradox. Since when can the two diametrically opposed worlds of cutthroat athletic competition-- the historical gridiron of manliness--and the “alternative lifestyle” coexist? Since now. Nellie’s Sports Bar has done more than just open up a great sports venue. It is challenging the close-minded, all-too-pervasive stereotype that male sports are not for the homosexual community. I specify “male,” not because Nellie’s message to the lesbian community is any different (it’s not), but because I feel like the sports/lesbian dichotomy is less pervasive. It is much more acceptable for female professional (and collegiate) athletes to admit to being gay than it is for male athletes. But, Nellie’s, in its fun-loving manner, tackles this controversial issue, and ultimately debases the lingering stereotype that sports are not for the gay community.

The beauty of Nellie’s message is the subtlety by which they achieve it. There is nothing political about their message. In fact, the only political undertones you will find are a few patriotic decorations and their motto, “Nellie Wants You to Join Our Team.” It is reminiscent of the Uncle Sam Army posters that the United States utilized as a wartime marketing technique. But whereas politics, and especially wartime politics, are marked by divergence, confrontation, and unilateral disagreement, Nellie’s message is clear, “all are accepted here.” Their proof is in the pudding. Not only will you find every demographic, from gay to straight, from man to woman, from black to white, but you will find every sport. The main room is decorated in antique sports paraphernalia, but NOT your expected football, baseball, and hockey memorabilia. Rather, wooden tennis rackets, croquet mallets, and crew paddles—the so-called more refined sports--adorn their walls. But then, in typical Nellie fashion, they are juxtaposed with an extensive collection of antique fraternity paddles. Brilliant! Moreover, you will find the collegiate basketball banners in the back room and realize that Nellie’s pays homage to all sports, just like they invite all races, and all sexual affiliations to “join our team.”

Come to Nellie’s. The cement floors and old exposed brick walls are cozier than you might think. And their "antique sports" decorative scheme is tasteful and neverending. Nellie’s embodies what all competition should--an even playing field for everyone where the rules are consistent for all those involved. This message is clear, all while taking a back seat to their primary message, “have fun.” And they are most certainly that. How else could you explain a former fraternity meathead visiting alone, without the security blanket of his friends, and having a wonderful time?

Crystal City Sports Pub - Gametime Nirvana

Crystal City Sports Pub rivals ESPN Zone with its capability for hosting sporting events. From the time you enter until the time you leave it is sensory overload—perfect for the sports fanatic seeking to lose their self in a plasma fantasyland.

The first level is the most expansive and family oriented section. And by family oriented, I mean I actually witnessed families dining there at Friday’s Happy Hour. The nuclear family was not the group that I expected to encounter at a sports pub, and true to form, that demographic dissolved over the course of the evening. In any case, the bottom floor is the most conducive to dining as it is more spacious and outfitted with larger tables. Still, you will not miss the big game if you are eating downstairs as there are a plethora of flat screens bearing down on you from every angle.

If you really want to immerse yourself in the game watching experience, walk upstairs. The second floor hosts another bar, and another series of HDTV’s as well as a state-of-the-art sound system. It can be loud at times, but you can count on witnessing every shoestring catch, every buzzer-beater, and every crunch time performance. And finally, if you seek the ultimate display of electronic splendor, visit their brand new non-smoking club level. It hosts one ten foot and two eight foot projection screen televisions, as well as numerous smaller ones for your viewing pleasure. The walls are decked out with sports memorabilia and there is sports ticker tape a la Wall Street. The accompanying scoreboards assure that you will never want for a score or gambling line, regardless of your sport of choice. The 27 foot ceilings add to club level comfort and the windows overlooking 23rd street provide light and the only connection to the outside world. Otherwise, it is a complete escape into sports utopia.

The menu is extensive, and what you would expect from a sports pub. What differentiates them from ESPN Zone is their patronage. I have found the franchise business model can often ostracize the local community in favor of a more corporate clientele. Crystal City Sports Pub has made an effort to coalesce with the surrounding environs, and it shows in the laid back and seemlingly tight knit cliques that frequent the venue.

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?

March Madness Bar Challenge

The brackets are set up for the first Annual 2009 DC March Madness Challenge. Six qualifiers will battle it out to determine which is the best college basketball venue in the city. The preliminary rankings were determined by the NiteNetwork Drinking Establishment Committee (NNDEC). Committee members include Me, Myself, and I.

After heated debate, Buffalo Billiards earns a first round bye after picking up the number one seed. Their solid performance during the pro football season coupled with key screenings of marquee boxing matches enabled them to win the highly touted Northwest Conference and receive an automatic bid. They will face the winner of Rhino Bar and Penn Quarter Sports Tavern, ranked 4 and 5, respectively. Both venues scored at-large bids, falling short in the Northwest Conference tourney. Solid college football representation combined with a binge-drinking inducing atmosphere gave them high RPI ratings and their difficult strength of schedule(SOS) merited that they go dancing. Will one of them be this year's Cinderella Story?

In the bottom part of the bracket, Crystal City Sports Pub snagged the number two seed on mere hearsay. I have never been there, but I am told it is a premier venue for a sports fanatic. Will they live up to the hype? They will take on the winner of Nellie's Sports Bar and Bugsy's Sports Bar, ranked 3 and 6, respectively. Bugsy's earned an automatic bid by winning the lowly Alexandria Conference, and Nellie's is currently the only team in the "Alternative Lifestyle" Conference. They will do battle this weekend to take on the supposed perrenial powerhouse, Crystal City Sports Pub.

In order to bring some sort of objectivity to this competition, I will be adhering to a strict limit of fifteen drinks per evening so as to give each establishment their rightful review. Venues will be judged on four important criteria; atmosphere, service, patronage, and intangibles. Furthermore, they will be judged solely by me and my vast expertise in March Madness Hosting Technique. For my complete review schedule reference my earlier blog. Tipoff starts at Bugsy's on Thursday at 7pm.