Catch all the NCAA action this March at NYC’s top sports bars. Find the best places to watch the games with great food, drinks, and fans.
March Madness is here, and if you’re in New York City, you’ll want to watch the NCAA Tournament in a lively setting with fellow basketball fans. Whether you’re looking for a massive screen, great food, or a place with die-hard sports lovers, NYC has plenty of options. Here are the best sports bars where you can enjoy every buzzer-beater, upset, and game-winning shot.
1. The Ainsworth – Multiple Locations
The Ainsworth is a go-to spot for sports fans looking for a high-energy atmosphere, excellent food, and large-screen TVs. With locations in Midtown and Chelsea, this bar is known for its upscale take on game-day eats, including truffle mac and cheese fries, loaded burgers, and their famous mac and cheese-stuffed burger.
The bar has plenty of seating, and every wall is lined with TVs, so you won’t miss a second of the action. It’s a popular place for big sports events, so if you’re planning to watch the NCAA Tournament here, reserving a table ahead of time is a smart move.
Locations: Midtown & Chelsea
Best for: Great food and a stylish game-day atmosphere
Bryant Park
2. Stout NYC – Penn Station & Bryant Park
If you’re looking for a large, centrally located sports bar with plenty of space, Stout NYC is a top choice. The Penn Station location is perfect for fans coming from out of town or those looking to catch a game before heading to another NYC event.
Stout offers an impressive beer selection, including craft, local, and international options. Their food menu includes hearty game-day favorites like wings, sliders, and fish and chips. With multiple big-screen TVs and a dedicated crowd of sports lovers, this is an excellent place to watch March Madness games with fellow fans.
Locations: Penn Station & Bryant Park
Best for: Beer lovers and fans looking for a central location
3. Blondies Sports – Upper West Side
For fans who want a no-frills sports bar with passionate crowds, Blondies Sports on the Upper West Side is a must-visit. Known for having some of the best buffalo wings in NYC, this spot is packed with die-hard sports fans on game nights.
The walls are covered with TVs, ensuring that every seat in the house has a good view of the game. If you’re looking for an old-school sports bar with strong drinks, good food, and an energetic atmosphere, this is a great choice for March Madness.
Location: 212 W 79th St, New York, NY
Best for: Fans who love wings and a classic sports bar feel
People in NYC
4. The Three Monkeys – Midtown
The Three Monkeys is a Midtown favorite with a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere, a strong selection of craft beers, and plenty of screens for game-watching. The bar has a spacious layout with multiple floors and an outdoor patio, making it a great place to catch the tournament in a fun setting.
Their beer list includes both well-known and local brews, and their food menu has everything from nachos to sliders. It’s a popular spot for college sports fans, so expect a lively crowd during March Madness.
Location: 236 W 54th St, New York, NY
Best for: A large beer selection and a casual sports atmosphere
5. Standings – East Village
If you’re looking for a smaller, no-frills sports bar that prioritizes the game above all else, Standings in the East Village is a great choice. This bar has a dive-bar feel but is packed with sports enthusiasts who are serious about their teams.
Standings is known for its impressive beer selection and small but dedicated crowd of fans who love college basketball. The space is tight, but that adds to the intensity of the game-day experience. If you prefer a spot where the focus is entirely on the game, this is the place to be.
Location: 43 E 7th St, New York, NY
Best for: Hardcore sports fans who want a no-nonsense environment
6. Legends – Midtown
Legends is one of the best places in Midtown to catch a game, especially if you’re looking for a spacious bar with a high-energy crowd. The multi-level venue offers a mix of standing and seated areas, and the number of screens guarantees a great view no matter where you sit.
The food menu is packed with game-day favorites, including loaded nachos, burgers, and wings. The drink selection is just as solid, with a variety of beers on tap and well-crafted cocktails. This bar is often filled with sports fans, making it one of the liveliest places to watch March Madness in NYC.
Location: 6 W 33rd St, New York, NY
Best for: A high-energy game-watching experience in Midtown
People watching soccer at a sports bar
7. The Liberty – Midtown
The Liberty is a great pick if you’re looking for a more stylish setting while still enjoying the March Madness action. The bar has a mix of lounge seating, a large bar area, and plenty of TVs for game-watching.
The menu includes upscale bar bites like truffle fries and gourmet sliders, and they offer a great selection of beers, cocktails, and spirits. If you want a spot that balances a sports bar feel with a more refined atmosphere, The Liberty is worth checking out.
Location: 29 W 35th St, New York, NY
Best for: A mix of upscale ambiance and sports bar energy
People holding up glasses of beer
Where to Watch March Madness in NYC
New York City has no shortage of great sports bars, and whether you want a massive screen, a high-energy crowd, or just a solid plate of wings, there’s a spot for you. March Madness brings fans together, and these bars create the perfect environment to enjoy every thrilling moment.
For even more ways to make the most of your time in the city, check out Visit NYC, your go-to source for everything happening in New York. From game-day hotspots to budget-friendly hotels in New York and the best tourist things to do in NYC, you’ll find everything you need for a great stay.
