By Scene Staff on Thu, May 31, 2018 at 12:00 pm
The Cleveland Cavaliers haven't always had the easiest time taking on the Golden State Warriors in the past four years, but here are some of the best places throughout downtown and greater Cleveland to catch the 2018 NBA Finals games. Because it's not over until it's over.
CHARACTERS SPORTS BAR & GRILL, 6007 BROOKPARK RD.
When: Doors open at 11:30 a.m.
What: Characters will have domestic beer deals, a happy hour menu and Pork Schnitzel and clam chowder special on Friday.
Why: If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, Characters is the location for you. This bar features a covered patio and you certainly won’t have to deal with shoulder-to-shoulder crowds as you push your way to the bar. (Photo courtesy of Facebook user Characters Sports Bar and Grill)
NICK’S SPORTS CORNER, 612 PROSPECT AVE.
When: Doors open at 11 a.m.
What: A neighborhood bar in downtown Cleveland, Nick’s Sports Corner is for the laid-back fans. Nick’s Sports Corner’s drink selection will appeal to the masses without excessive cost.
Why: An unassuming sign on an unassuming building really conveys the hole-in-the-wall vibe at Nick’s Sports Corner. Nick’s Sports Corner is the place you can reminisce about the glory days of Cleveland sports while hoping the Cavs make history in the NBA Finals. (Photo courtesy of Instagram user @clevenow.)
CITY TAP, 748 PROSPECT AVE. EAST.
When: Doors open at 11 a.m. Happy hour runs from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
What: City Tap boasts one way to make that final hour before the 9 p.m. tipoff fly by: a power hour. Starting at 8 p.m., nearly all bottles and drafts at City Tap are $3. I mean, what could go wrong when rabid sports fans drink as much as they can for an hour before tipoff? That’s right. Nothing.
Why: Certified Angus Beef burgers and some interesting ones at that. Try the “Godfather,” a burger covered with pepperoni, provolone and Parmesan cheeses with a side of marinara sauce for your dipping pleasure. Wash that bad boy down with one of the 58 beers on tap. (Photo courtesy of Instagram user @donduck9119.)
CLEVELANDER BAR & GRILL, 834 HURON RD. EAST.
When: Doors open at 11 a.m. for those who just so happened to call in sick today. Party on, you slacker.
What: Grab a cheap beer pitcher and some bar grub and let the flat screen TVs wash over you as the everyone in the place hangs onto every shot during the Cavaliers games.
Why: A proven commodity for those wishing to get rowdy without judgment from the family of six at a nearby table just trying to eat dinner. (Photo courtesy of Facebook user Clevelander Bar and Grill.)
THE HOOLEY HOUSE—BROOKLYN, 10310 CASCADE CROSSING, BROOKLYN
When: Doors open at 11 a.m. and Hooley Hour runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with $2.50 domestic bottles, $3 apple pie drinks and tall domestic drafts and $4 long islands.
What: By definition, a “hooley” is an Irish boisterous party or a noisy, merry party. This bar offers traditional Irish food and other pub choices at reasonable prices. Nothing says “merry party” like cheap food and alcohol..
Why: The Hooley House has three large projection HD screens, over 25 55” LED TVs and plenty of space to accommodate large parties. The Hooley House does have a reputation of filling up quick so I recommended getting there early and planning on staying late. (Photo courtesy of Hooley House Brooklyn.)
THE BREW GARDEN, 18950 BAGLEY RD., MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS
When: Doors open at 11 a.m.
What: The Brew Garden starts the party with $6 craft cocktails and hopes to keep the party going with live music and loud cheering.
Why: Known for using Cavs players in their commercials in the past, you'll find The Brew Garden filled with passionate fans ready to cheer on LeBron and Kyrie. (Photo courtesy of www.brewgarden.com.)
WINKING LIZARD, 811 HURON RD. EAST and 14018 DETROIT AVE., LAKEWOOD
When:Doors open at 11 a.m.
What: Winking Lizard has become synonymous with wings, beer and sports. The bar has ample TVs for your viewing pleasure.
Why: One glance at Winking Lizard’s beer list may have you whipping out your smartphone to Google what exactly is a “Ayinger Brau Weisse.” The beer selection, exciting to those not intimidated, is hard for other sports bars to match. (Photo courtesy of Facebook user Winking Lizard Tavern.)
THE HARP, 4408 DETROIT AVE.
When: Doors open at 11 a.m. for those looking to start their day with an Irish coffee.
What:Expect exceptional drinks and Irish food served all night during the Cavs game.
Why: Sometimes, a change of scenery does well for a sports fan. Step outside on The Harp’s patio for a wonderful view of Cleveland. The Harp is an Irish bar and features traditional Irish cuisine mixed with contemporary options. Just please don’t cry into your Shepherd’s pie when LeBron and his Cavs can't seem to play any more perfectly and are still down by five. (Photo courtesy of Facebook user The Harp.)
1422 Euclid Avenue, Suite 730
Cleveland, OH 44115
