Where to Watch Football Around Raleigh and Durham
Big game tonight? Enhance your football-watching experience with some Triangle culture by checking one of these popular sports bars in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill-Cary area.
The Players Retreat
Founded in 1951 by Bernie and Mickey Hanula, this Raleigh institution known for its popular black angus beef serves ice cold beer, wine and cocktails as patrons watch football and other sports via all Direct TV sports packages. A private room for up to 100 is available for reservation. 105 Oberlin Rd., Raleigh
Tobacco Road Sports Café
Locations in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill make this a favorite place to grab a quality bite to eat and watch the big game — no matter where you land. Named for the Tobacco Road college sports rivalry between nearby teams from Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University and other schools, the restaurant and bar draws fans from all corners of the Triangle. 222 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh; 280 S. Mangum Street, Durham; 1118 Environ Way, Chapel Hill
The Brickhouse
The Brickhouse offers eight 120-inch projection screen TVs, numerous LED and LCD screens, a full-service menu of American fare and four championship pool tables. Several alumni and fan clubs frequent the Brickhouse, which also hosts special events and trivia nights. Try a North Carolina Craft beer while you're there. 3801 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh
Carolina Brewery
Carolina Brewery in Chapel Hill offers a calmer alternative to Top of the Hill. Opened as a microbrewery by a third-generation University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill alumni, patrons can enjoy award-winning, handcrafted beers and a nice selection of burgers, sandwiches and wings. 460 W. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill; 120 Lowes Drive, Ste 100, Pittsboro
Four Corners
Named after famed UNC basketball coach Dean Smith's four corners offense—a strategy for stalling with a lead near the end of a game—this popular sports bar and restaurant features 20 high-definition TVs and plenty of Carolina blue traditions. Pack fans are welcome, but may be a bit outnumbered! 175 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill
Claiming to have the “best damn wings in the Triangle,” Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill is located in Cary and Raleigh and offers 30 HDTVs. The 4200 square foot, multi-functioning venue also offers semi private areas in addition to the main bar/dining area. 8322 Chapel Hill Rd., Cary; 205 Wolfe Street, Raleigh
The Wooden Nickel Pub
Located on Churton Street in the heart of historic Hillsborough, the Wooden Nickel offers a cozy spot to watch the game and chat with friendly bartenders about the town’s history. Sample craft beers and American fare, including wings with sauces ranging from mild to “Frickin’ Nickel Hot.” 105 N. Churton Street, Hillsborough
Top of the Hill
A truly top place for locally-sourced foods and spirits, guests here can watch the game while enjoying a beer from the Top of the Hill Brewery beer. The brewery maintains three freshly tapped beers year-round: Kenan Lager, Old Well White and Rams Head IPA. Event spaces range from public areas to a private bar. The Great Room is perfect for parties and weddings. 100 East Franklin Street, 3rd Floor, Chapel Hill
