Dining Out

For those in an around Northwest Tucson, there are plenty of well-known places to grab drinks, eats and a sporting event including World Sports Grille, Famous Sams on Oracle and Risky Business. If you are a sports bar-goer you’ve probably stopped into each of these places at one time or another but they are certainly not the only good places to spend a couple of hours on the weekend. So, the next time you’re heading out to watch the Cardinals, Diamondbacks or Wildcats consider trying out one of the following places. I can guarantee you’ll have a good time, I just can’t guarantee your team with prevail.

Prior to 2006 this bar was part of the Famous Sams franchise, and since splitting away, the Stadium Grill, under the guidance of manager Fred Avitia, has worked to establish its own identity. What’s emerged is a fun local hangout that’s about more than just sports. In addition to 20 TVs — a mix of flat-screens and CRTs — the Stadium Grill offers karaoke and open mic nights, live bands to dance to, and an expanded menu featuring steak, pasta and fish in addition to typical bar fare. There’s even a Sunday brunch throughout the entire NFL season. With two pool tables, tons of specials and a family-friendly atmosphere about the only downside is the lack of a satellite feed, which means if you’re into sports from across the pond, you’ll have to go elsewhere. 

3682 W. Orange Grove Rd., 520.877.8100, StadiumGrillOnline.com

 

Grumpy’s Grill is the second bar on our list and the second with a Famous Sams connection — prior to opening Grumpy’s, Lorrie and Tim Klump owned Famous Sams on Oracle for seven years. But unlike Stadium Grill, which still resembles its former self in some ways, Grumpy’s Grill is more like an upscale diner than a sports bar. Unlike the other bars here, there are no banners or jerseys or trophies on the wall, in fact, there’s nothing that screams sports bar at all. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great place to watch a game. What televisions there are, are perfectly situated for viewing and you’ll almost always find the event you’re looking for being shown. Where the Klumps really strayed from their roots is in the menu, opting to include medallions of beef and raspberry chipotle salmon along side the wings and burgers — and amazingly nothing is priced more than $11.99. As for the name, “”It’s after my husband, Tim,” says Lorrie. “Not that he’s grumpy. He just looks grumpy.”

2960 W. Ina Rd., 520.297.5452, GrumpysGrill.com 

On Oracle, just slightly south of Ina, sits Putney’s, a 30-year veteran of the Tucson sports bar scene. Take one step inside and it’s obvious that Putney’s takes its motto, “All sports, All the time,” very seriously. With more than 46 televisions, more memorabilia than seems possible to cram into one place, eats that don’t stray far from the slathered and fried variety, and something called erotica shots during “Ladies Night,” this bar isn’t for everyone. But if you’re into pool, trivia contests and every sport imaginable, coupled with plenty of drink specials, then Putney’s is the perfect spot. Just remember to leave the kids at home. 

6090 N. Oracle Rd., 520.575.1767, PutneysTucson.com