March means longer days, spring break, and of course, March Madness. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off in earnest March 15, with Texas teams University of Houston, University of Texas, Texas A&M, TCU, Stephen F. Austin, Texas Tech, and Texas Southern all selected to participate. The battle between powerhouse teams vs. Cinderella favorites is sports drama at its finest.
Trying to choose a spot to watch the games can be overwhelming: you need multiple TVs, taps-on-taps of beer, and bites to nosh on, natch. Here are our picks for some local winners.
Revelry on Richmond
With some 40 beers on tap, Revelry is a favorite destination for Montrose and Inner Loop beer lovers and sports fans. Revelry has TVs throughout, so you won’t miss a second of the action. Thursday specials include $12 Burger and Pint Night. 1613 Richmond Ave.
Balls Out Burger
The nearly 4,000-square-foot patio boasts expansive tables and has plenty of TVs. In between all the play on the hardwood, guests can dabble in cornhole, giant JENGA, giant Connect Four, darts, and other games on the patio. Happy Hour (3 pm-6 pm) features $1 off all beer, and the single burger, choice of fries, and soda for $10.
FM Kitchen and Bar
FM Kitchen and Bar is known for their no-frills hamburgers, shakes, and massive patio. Expect a “tipoff” celebration Thursday, with All Day Happy Hour with $5 wines, wells, and tap tails, and $1 off beer and specialty cocktails. They will also have gameday wing platters sauced and tossed in their homemade Spicy Valentina, Sambal Honey, BBQ, Spicy Hoisin, and Pique. 1112 Shepherd Dr.
Christian’s Tailgate
With five locations throughout the Houston area, you won’t have to travel too far out of your way to cheer your team on to victory. Christian’s Tailgate has a laidback groove and tasty burgers, and a robust menu. 2000 Bagby St. Suite 106; 2820 White Oak Dr.; 1010 Hwy 6 N.; 1012 Congress St.; 5114 Kirby Dr.
Beer Market Co.
How high is your beer priority? Beer Market Co. appeases the beer connoisseur and beer drinkers in general, with well over 300 beers from all around the world. The Midtown location has $4 canned beer specials, while the Studemont location has $4 canned beer and $6 burger and fries. 920 Studemont St. #900; 3304 Milam St.
Kirby Ice House
This “neighborhood pearl” opens early in anticipation of March Madness. The acre-sized patio is dog-friendly, and makes for good people-and-sports watching. TVs are both indoors and and out; specials include $4 Frosé and frozen tea, $6 house wine, and $10 off select bottles. 3333 Eastside St.
Nick’s Place
Nick’s Place prides itself on being a sports bar, first and foremost — all the while dishing out homemade authentic Italian cuisine. No surprise they’ve been around since ’93, offering up comforting breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Attention Missouri Tigers fans: Nick’s is the official home for Mizzou viewing parties. 2713 Rockyridge Dr.
Biggio’s
If in the downtown area, be sure to check out Biggio’s, located inside the impressive Marriot Marquis. With 20 taps of suds and some grub, it’s a true sports bar with enough food to put you in a coma, but you’re sure to come around by the second half of the game. For post-game tension relief, book a room and slip into the mammoth pool. 1777 Walker St.
The Hay Merchant
A running theme throughout this list is beer. Hay Merchant has an extensive selection of beer made by Houston favorites, Saint Arnold, to Brash, to the not-so-common from Brouwerij Van Honsebrouck, and much more. Stay for the eclectic menu and specials, and the house-made pretzels. 1100 Westheimer Rd.
Moxie’s Grill and Bar
Moxie’s Grill and Bar, located in Uptown, is a massive Canadian spot that opened its doors in November. It boasts two bar areas, as well as a wraparound bar on the second floor. Go for a brew, or sip on an Avocado Gimlet, or the Signature Caesar (Tito’s vodka, Clamato, and house-made, pickled veggie skewer). 5000 Westheimer Rd.
Moxie's Grill and Bar.
Pair a pour with an app or an entree.Photo courtesy of Grape Creek Vineyards