The Super Bowl showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots kicks off at 5:30 pm on Sunday. It doesn't matter if you're in it for the football, the food or the commercials, here are some of the best places around town to grab a beer, indulge in bar snacks and partake in this truly American tradition.
St. Roch's Bar
St. Roch's may root for the New Orleans Saints during the regular season, but just because the team isn't in contention doesn't mean this east side bar won't be celebrating. Try your luck at football squares and feast on a potluck while taking advantage of the drink specials.
Gourdough's Public House
Both the South Lamar Boulevard spot and the new West Fifth Street location have tons of televisions, beer towers and, of course, donut burgers. (Plus each table gets one free round of wings.) Admission is free, but make sure reserve a table ahead of time.
Brew Exchange
Looking to get a little rowdy? Brew Exchange is continuing its "Super Boil" tradition downtown with free crawfish, Deep Eddy Vodka specials and post-game entertainment to keep the party going no matter who wins.
The ABGB
This South Austin oasis is celebrating the best part of the Super Bowl: the commercials. The ABGB just closed the window for submissions for the Make Your Own ABGB Beer Commercial Sweepstakes and, in true Super Bowl fashion, the best of the best will be aired during the big game.
Midway Field House
Sunday at Midway Field House will be a joint celebration between the Super Bowl and this East Riverside sports bar's birthday. Enjoy sweet giveaways and drink specials in honor of the bar's first anniversary. Follow Midway on Facebook for updates on the particulars.
Whisler's
Whisler's is keeping it classy with deals on Bloody Marys, Moscow Mules, micheladas, margaritas and Mexican martinis (try saying that five times fast). Bonus: East Side King's Thai-Kun food trailer will be serving up spicy butterfly chicken wings.
Liberty Tavern
Wings, beer buckets and high-definition televisions — Liberty Tavern has it all. This Hilton Austin restaurant will also have deals on its delicious burgers in addition to the regular menus.
Fado Irish Pub
United Way for Greater Austin's Young Leaders Society is throwing an big Super Bowl watch party at Fado Irish Pub to help raise money for at-risk students. Tickets are $35 or $60 for a couple, and include food, drinks and cool giveaways.
Shangri-La
Forget the Super Bowl and head to Shangri-La with your best furry friend to watch the Puppy Bowl. Enjoy treats (for dogs and humans) and design your own dog bowl at the "Puppy Bowl Station." There will also be drink specials, free pool and cookies.
Last minute sports bar suggestions
If you're just looking for a place to hang out and grab a beer or two, try Little Woodrow's, Third Base, Champions, Posse East, Haymaker, Black Sheep Lodge, Cover 3, Lavaca Street Bar, Draft Pick, Doc's Motorworks, Pluckers or Crown & Anchor.
Brew Exchange is continuing their Super Bowl tradition with the "Super Boil" downtown.
