Mention Salina to any sports fan who’s spent time in a major city, and you’ll hear the same lament: “Where’s a proper place to watch the game?” They’ll pine for those cavernous temples with walls of screens and wings by the bucket. Well, friends, your search ends here. Salina’s scene has quietly leveled up, and these seven spots deliver the atmosphere, grub, and camaraderie you’ve been craving.
The Blind Pig
$ | (785) 827-7449 | WEBSITE
The Blind Pig is one of few places in Salina where you’ll find Prohibition-era cocktails crafted with that speakeasy spirit. They’re smooth, balanced with just the right kick, and pair perfectly with their elevated bar food classics. If you’re looking to dive into local culture, go for their extensive whiskey selection instead.
Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom
$ | (785) 404-1499 | WEBSITE
Salina saw the proverbial sports bar light before most Kansas towns, and you can still get a great one at Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom downtown. The kid-friendly spot serves up their Chicago Love Pizza with a perfect crust, fresh toppings, and a crust we’d lick off a bar counter. Clean tables are always available because March Madness doesn’t end here, so take that.
Library Sports Bar & Grill
$ | (785) 833-2110 | WEBSITE
Another case against the “Salina has no good sports bars” claim: a visit to Library Sports Bar & Grill. This easygoing spot does incredible burgers and kind service all day, so grab a seat on the outdoor patio, watch the setting sun cast beautiful colors on the building, and enjoy the live music when it’s playing. At peak hours, the place transforms into a high-energy gathering that could have easily been plucked straight out of a college town game day.
AJ’s at The Alley Salina
$ | (785) 515-2566 | WEBSITE
Contrary to what big-city skeptics think, Kansas does have great pizza. AJ’s at The Alley Salina is proof. This cozy Salina spot makes pies with fresh, homemade dough and toppings cooked to order, with the 29-inch pizza being a standout favorite for its generous portions and fresh ingredients.
As an added bonus, those looking for a welcoming atmosphere for families or large groups can also find that here, with friendly staff and flexible service options making it a highly recommended spot for a night out.
Chuck’s Bar
$ | (785) 404-3225 | WEBSITE
Chuck’s Bar has been serving up hearty eats in Salina since opening its doors—and alongside all the classic sports bar staples like Southwestern Egg Rolls, Brisket queso, and the Leroy Brown sandwich, they also dish out a solid Philly Cheese steak. It’s just cheesy enough with golden toasted bread and meat that’s thinly sliced and not too greasy. It’s no fine dining establishment, but it gets the job done.
Applebee’s Grill + Bar
$$ | (785) 827-8385 | WEBSITE
While it’s tough to find a sports bar with consistently great service in Salina, you can still find an exceptional, albeit familiar, experience at Applebee’s Grill + Bar. Their Allota Bacon Burger comes with perfectly cooked patties and crispy bacon. We suggest following each bite with a sip of whatever drink sounds good from their Bacardi bucket. And if you’re looking for family-friendly dining, Applebee’s is welcoming with attentive staff who keep water glasses full, too.
Legends Sports Bar & Grill
$ | (785) 825-6789 | WEBSITE
If there’s one thing Salina isn’t known for, it’s culinary variety. Thankfully, there are places like Legends Sports Bar & Grill. The remodeled sports bar—now featuring Indian cuisine alongside classic burgers—offers a buffet on Tuesday and Friday evenings starting at 5pm, along with a full menu available on other days. Get the melt-in-your-mouth Black & Bleu burger and consider trying the fresh, herb-blended naan if you’re feeling adventurous.