Murray Hill, a vibrant neighborhood in Midtown East, boasts a fantastic selection of sports bars, perfect for catching your favorite game, enjoying some drinks with friends, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this guide highlights the 11 best sports bars in Murray Hill, NYC, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next outing.
Finding Your Perfect Murray Hill Sports Bar: A Neighborhood Guide
Choosing the right sports bar depends on your priorities. Are you looking for a place with a massive screen showing every game? A lively atmosphere perfect for socializing? A quiet corner to focus on the match? Or maybe a spot with amazing food to complement your viewing experience? This guide considers all these factors. We've scoured Murray Hill to bring you the best options, categorized for easy navigation:
Top Picks for the Ultimate Game Day Experience
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The Ainsworth: Known for its upscale ambiance and extensive selection of craft beers, The Ainsworth offers a premium sports bar experience. Multiple high-definition screens guarantee you won't miss a moment of the action, while their menu features delicious bar food, elevated beyond the typical sports bar fare. They frequently host viewing parties for major events.
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The Tippler: This stylish gastropub perfectly balances a relaxed atmosphere with high-quality food and drink. The Tippler boasts a large selection of beers on tap and a menu that goes beyond standard bar snacks. While not solely a sports bar, they consistently show major games on their screens, making it a solid choice for a more refined game day experience.
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The Refinery Rooftop: For a unique experience, consider The Refinery Rooftop. While it offers stunning city views, it also provides multiple large screens showing sporting events. The atmosphere is more sophisticated, making it a great option for a celebratory game-day outing with a slightly higher price point.
Lively Spots for Socializing and Game Watching
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Jack's Wife Freda: This trendy spot is known for its delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. While not strictly a sports bar, it's a great option for those seeking a buzzy environment where they can catch games while enjoying excellent food and drinks. The atmosphere is lively and social, ideal for groups.
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B.R. Guest Restaurants (Multiple Locations): B.R. Guest operates several establishments in Murray Hill, each with its own unique atmosphere but often featuring sports viewing. Check their websites for individual locations and game-day schedules. These bars tend to cater to a slightly younger crowd.
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Blind Tiger Pub: This classic pub offers a more traditional sports bar atmosphere. Expect plenty of screens showing a variety of games, a good selection of beers on tap, and standard pub fare. It's a great choice for a relaxed and unpretentious night out.
Hidden Gems and Understated Options
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Smith & Wollensky (Midtown): While technically slightly outside of the core Murray Hill area, its proximity and reputation for high-quality steaks and a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere make it worthwhile. They often show important games on their screens.
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O'Hara's: This Irish pub offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a more intimate game-watching experience. While it may not have the massive screens of some other options, it's a great place to enjoy a pint and chat with friends while still keeping up with the game.
Considerations for Your Game Day Choice
- Screen Size and Quantity: Check the bar's website or call ahead to see how many screens they have and their size.
- Atmosphere: Do you want a lively, packed bar, or a more relaxed environment?
- Food and Drink Menu: What kind of food and drinks are you looking for?
- Price Range: Sports bars range in price from casual and affordable to upscale and expensive.
- Crowd: Some bars cater to a younger crowd, while others are more diverse.
Choosing the perfect Murray Hill sports bar requires considering your preferences. Use the information above to select the ideal spot to cheer on your team in style.
Conclusion: Your Game Day Awaits
Murray Hill offers a diverse range of sports bars to suit every taste. From upscale venues to classic pubs, you're sure to find the perfect place to enjoy your favorite game. Remember to check the bar's website or call ahead to confirm their game day schedule and make a reservation if necessary. Enjoy the game!
