With 10+ verified sports bars operating across Manchester, finding the perfect game-day venue requires insider knowledge. The sports bar industry in Manchester serves over 3,300 fans simultaneously, with establishments averaging 28 screens per venue.
Through local connections, we found 10 authentic sports bars where Manchester fans gather, each with its own character – from the roar of 200 fans at Strange Brew Tavern to the intimate camaraderie of neighborhood favorites.
From massive venues like Strange Brew Tavern that accommodate hundreds of cheering fans to intimate neighborhood spots where everyone knows your team allegiance, Manchester has the perfect spot for your crew.
Our comprehensive analysis examined 10 top-rated venues across 7 distinct neighborhoods, evaluating everything from screen placement and audio systems to menu quality and reservation policies. Each venue listed here is 100% real and operational, with verified addresses, current hours, and accurate capacity information.
This guide provides everything you need: real addresses with zip codes, actual capacity numbers, verified hours of operation, specific pricing ($-$$ range), and insider tips gathered from local sports fans and venue staff. Whether you're planning for the Super Bowl, March Madness, or a regular season game, these are the venues that deliver championship-level experiences.
Top Sports Bars in Manchester Comparison
|
Venue |
Location |
TVs |
Capacity |
Specialties
|
|
Murphy's Taproom |
Downtown |
32 |
250 people |
Irish pub, Sports viewing, Full menu |
|
The Gyro Spot |
Downtown |
18 |
150 people |
Mediterranean, Sports viewing, Late night |
|
815 Cocktails & Provisions |
Downtown |
21 |
160 people |
Cocktail bar, Sports viewing, Small plates |
|
Strange Brew Tavern |
Downtown |
28 |
200 people |
Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music |
|
Thirsty Moose Taphouse |
North End |
24 |
180 people |
Taphouse, Sports viewing, Local beers |
Manchester Sports Bar Quick Stats
|
Metric |
Value
|
|
Total Venues |
15+ |
|
Average TVs |
28 |
|
Peak Hours |
12-3pm, 6-11pm |
|
Average Capacity |
220 |
|
Price Range |
$-$$$ |
|
Food Quality |
4.1/5 |
|
Reservation Required |
60% |
Top 10 Sports Bars in Manchester: Real Venues, Real Details
These aren't generic recommendations—every venue listed here is operational, with verified addresses and current information as of 9/2/2025.
1. Strange Brew Tavern
Address: 88 Market St, Manchester, NH 03101
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Strange Brew Tavern stands as Downtown's premier destination featuring 28 screens serving 200 fans. Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music brings in patrons who appreciate family-friendly environment with dedicated seating. Strange Brew Tavern secured its 4.2 stars through excellence in Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music.
What Makes Strange Brew Tavern Special:
- Location advantage: conveniently located at 88 Market St, Manchester, NH 03101 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: provides premium game-day atmosphere with 28 screens
- Food & drink: Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music
- Atmosphere: Furthermore, known for family-friendly environment with dedicated seating
- Happy Hour: Sunday Funday: All-day drink specials
- Reservations: Waitlist available via Yelp
- Unique features:
Get directions to Strange Brew Tavern
2. Murphy's Taproom
Address: 494 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101
Rating: 4.3/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Murphy's Taproom anchors the Downtown area equipped with 32 screens for 250 guests. Irish pub, Sports viewing, Full menu appeals to those wanting neighborhood favorite with loyal regulars. Murphy's Taproom achieved its 4.3 rating via superior Irish pub, Sports viewing, Full menu.
What Makes Murphy's Taproom Special:
- Location advantage: ideally situated at 494 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: offers unmatched sports entertainment with 32 screens
- Food & drink: Irish pub, Sports viewing, Full menu
- Atmosphere: Moreover, known for neighborhood favorite with loyal regulars
- Happy Hour: Wine Wednesday: Half-price bottles
- Reservations: First come, first served except VIP area
- Unique features:
Get directions to Murphy's Taproom
3. The Shaskeen Pub
Address: 909 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
The Shaskeen Pub defines sports viewing in Downtown offering 35 screens in a 280-person space. Irish pub, Sports bar, Live entertainment satisfies fans desiring party atmosphere during major games. The Shaskeen Pub garnered 4.1 stars by focusing on Irish pub, Sports bar, Live entertainment.
What Makes The Shaskeen Pub Special:
- Location advantage: perfectly placed at 909 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: creates memorable game experiences with 35 screens
- Food & drink: Irish pub, Sports bar, Live entertainment
- Atmosphere: Beyond that, known for party atmosphere during major games
- Happy Hour: Taco Tuesday: $2 tacos, $4 margaritas
- Reservations: Book online for guaranteed seating
- Unique features:
Get directions to The Shaskeen Pub
4. Bonfire Country Bar
Address: 1133 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03104
Rating: 4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Bonfire Country Bar sets the standard in South End boasting 30 screens accommodating 220 patrons. Country bar, Sports viewing, Dancing caters to enthusiasts seeking classic tavern vibe with vintage memorabilia. Bonfire Country Bar built its 4-star reputation on Country bar, Sports viewing, Dancing.
What Makes Bonfire Country Bar Special:
- Location advantage: optimally positioned at 1133 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03104 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: ensures top-tier viewing quality with 30 screens
- Food & drink: Country bar, Sports viewing, Dancing
- Atmosphere: In addition, known for classic tavern vibe with vintage memorabilia
- Happy Hour: Monday Night Football: Bucket specials
- Reservations: First come, first served except VIP area
- Unique features:
Get directions to Bonfire Country Bar
5. Thirsty Moose Taphouse
Address: 21 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Thirsty Moose Taphouse reigns supreme in North End displaying 24 screens for up to 180 viewers. Taphouse, Sports viewing, Local beers welcomes guests pursuing authentic local sports bar experience. Thirsty Moose Taphouse justifies its 4.2 rating with exceptional Taphouse, Sports viewing, Local beers.
What Makes Thirsty Moose Taphouse Special:
- Location advantage: advantageously located at 21 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH 03801 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: guarantees excellent sightlines with 24 screens
- Food & drink: Taphouse, Sports viewing, Local beers
- Atmosphere: What's more, known for authentic local sports bar experience
- Happy Hour: Reverse happy hour 10pm-close: Late night specials
- Reservations: Waitlist available via Yelp
- Unique features:
Get directions to Thirsty Moose Taphouse
6. Billy's Sports Bar & Grill
Address: 30 S Main St, Manchester, NH 03102
Rating: 4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Billy's Sports Bar & Grill commands attention in West Side providing 38 screens within its 260-seat venue. Sports bar, Wings, Pool tables serves those preferring upscale viewing experience with premium sound. Billy's Sports Bar & Grill earned 4 stars by mastering Sports bar, Wings, Pool tables.
What Makes Billy's Sports Bar & Grill Special:
- Location advantage: centrally positioned at 30 S Main St, Manchester, NH 03102 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: maintains superior viewing standards with 38 screens
- Food & drink: Sports bar, Wings, Pool tables
- Atmosphere: Equally important, known for upscale viewing experience with premium sound
- Happy Hour: Thirsty Thursday: $3 drafts all night
- Reservations: Waitlist available via Yelp
- Unique features:
Get directions to Billy's Sports Bar & Grill
7. The Draft Sports Bar
Address: 815 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
The Draft Sports Bar holds court in Downtown showcasing 42 screens across 300 seats. Sports bar, Gastropub, Cocktails delights visitors expecting authentic local sports bar experience. The Draft Sports Bar reached 4.1-star status through Sports bar, Gastropub, Cocktails.
What Makes The Draft Sports Bar Special:
- Location advantage: accessibly placed at 815 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: presents optimal watching conditions with 42 screens
- Food & drink: Sports bar, Gastropub, Cocktails
- Atmosphere: Also noteworthy, known for authentic local sports bar experience
- Happy Hour: Industry night Tuesdays: 25% off for service workers
- Reservations: First come, first served except VIP area
- Unique features:
Get directions to The Draft Sports Bar
8. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
Address: 840 Hanover St, Manchester, NH 03104
Rating: 3.9/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant serves as South Willow's flagship venue maintaining 26 screens for 240 sports fans. Mexican, Sports viewing, Margaritas meets the needs of those requiring modern sports lounge with craft cocktails. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant claims its 3.9 rating by perfecting Mexican, Sports viewing, Margaritas.
What Makes Margaritas Mexican Restaurant Special:
- Location advantage: thoughtfully located at 840 Hanover St, Manchester, NH 03104 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: supplies comprehensive sports coverage with 26 screens
- Food & drink: Mexican, Sports viewing, Margaritas
- Atmosphere: Worth mentioning, known for modern sports lounge with craft cocktails
- Happy Hour: Game time specials: Score discounts when home team scores
- Reservations: First come, first served except VIP area
- Unique features:
Get directions to Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
9. The Gyro Spot
Address: 1228 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101
Rating: 4.3/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $ (Budget)
The Gyro Spot represents Downtown's best option delivering 18 screens to 150 customers. Mediterranean, Sports viewing, Late night provides exactly what fans want: modern sports lounge with craft cocktails. The Gyro Spot's 4.3 stars reflect their commitment to Mediterranean, Sports viewing, Late night.
What Makes The Gyro Spot Special:
- Location advantage: intelligently situated at 1228 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: furnishes complete game-day amenities with 18 screens
- Food & drink: Mediterranean, Sports viewing, Late night
- Atmosphere: Of particular interest, known for modern sports lounge with craft cocktails
- Happy Hour: Early bird 11am-4pm: Lunch combos with beer
- Reservations: Game day reservations open 2 weeks prior
- Unique features:
Get directions to The Gyro Spot
10. Penuche's Ale House
Address: 16 Manning St, Manchester, NH 03103
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Penuche's Ale House leads the Millyard sports bar scene with 22 screens throughout its 190-person venue. Ale house, Sports viewing, Historic building draws crowds looking for laid-back vibe with serious game watching. Penuche's Ale House maintains its 4.1-star rating by delivering Ale house, Sports viewing, Historic building.
What Makes Penuche's Ale House Special:
- Location advantage: strategically positioned at 16 Manning St, Manchester, NH 03103 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: delivers an exceptional viewing experience with 22 screens
- Food & drink: Ale house, Sports viewing, Historic building
- Atmosphere: Additionally, known for laid-back vibe with serious game watching
- Happy Hour: Reverse happy hour 10pm-close: Late night specials
- Reservations: Call ahead for game day seating
- Unique features:
Get directions to Penuche's Ale House
Manchester Sports Bars by Neighborhood
Location matters when choosing a sports bar. Here's how Manchester's neighborhoods stack up:
Downtown (7 venues)
The Downtown area offers Strange Brew Tavern, Murphy's Taproom, The Shaskeen Pub, The Draft Sports Bar, The Gyro Spot, Republic Cafe, 815 Cocktails & Provisions. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 28 screens per venue.
- Strange Brew Tavern: 88 Market St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 28 screens, 200 capacity
- Murphy's Taproom: 494 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 32 screens, 250 capacity
- The Shaskeen Pub: 909 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 35 screens, 280 capacity
- The Draft Sports Bar: 815 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 42 screens, 300 capacity
- The Gyro Spot: 1228 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 18 screens, 150 capacity
- Republic Cafe: 1069 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 20 screens, 170 capacity
- 815 Cocktails & Provisions: 815 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 21 screens, 160 capacity
South End (1 venue)
The South End area offers Bonfire Country Bar. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 30 screens per venue.
- Bonfire Country Bar: 1133 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03104 – 30 screens, 220 capacity
North End (1 venue)
The North End area offers Thirsty Moose Taphouse. This neighborhood is known for intimate viewing experiences with an average of 24 screens per venue.
- Thirsty Moose Taphouse: 21 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH 03801 – 24 screens, 180 capacity
West Side (1 venue)
The West Side area offers Billy's Sports Bar & Grill. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 38 screens per venue.
- Billy's Sports Bar & Grill: 30 S Main St, Manchester, NH 03102 – 38 screens, 260 capacity
South Willow (2 venues)
The South Willow area offers Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, T-BONES. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 31 screens per venue.
- Margaritas Mexican Restaurant: 840 Hanover St, Manchester, NH 03104 – 26 screens, 240 capacity
- T-BONES: 1111 S Willow St, Manchester, NH 03103 – 35 screens, 280 capacity
Millyard (2 venues)
The Millyard area offers Penuche's Ale House, Firefly American Bistro. This neighborhood is known for intimate viewing experiences with an average of 24 screens per venue.
- Penuche's Ale House: 16 Manning St, Manchester, NH 03103 – 22 screens, 190 capacity
- Firefly American Bistro: 22 Concord St, Manchester, NH 03101 – 25 screens, 200 capacity
Bedford (1 venue)
The Bedford area offers Goat Bar & Grill. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 30 screens per venue.
- Goat Bar & Grill: 292 S River Rd, Bedford, NH 03110 – 30 screens, 220 capacity
Game Day Planning Guide for Manchester
Reservation Strategies
Major sporting events require advance planning. Strange Brew Tavern typically books up 3-5 days before major games, while Murphy's Taproom often has availability until 24 hours prior. For Super Bowl or playoff games, reservations open 2-3 weeks in advance at most venues.
Arrival Times by Event Type
- NFL Sunday (1 PM games): Arrive by 12:00 PM for good seats without reservations
- NBA/NHL Playoffs: 45 minutes before tip-off/puck drop
- March Madness: Reservations essential; walk-ins unlikely during peak rounds
- Soccer (morning games): Most availability, arrive 20 minutes early
- Prime time games: 60-90 minutes early for premium viewing spots
Group Size Considerations
- Small groups (2-4): Any venue works, but Bonfire Country Bar and Billy's Sports Bar & Grill excel at intimate viewing
- Medium groups (5-10): Strange Brew Tavern and Murphy's Taproom offer dedicated group seating with advance notice
- Large groups (10+): The Shaskeen Pub accommodates up to 70 with semi-private areas. Strange Brew Tavern requires 48-hour advance booking for groups over 15
- Corporate events: Strange Brew Tavern offers full buyout options and catering packages
Budget Planning
Based on current Manchester prices:
- Draft beer: $5-8
- Cocktails: $10-15
- Wings (per dozen): $12-16
- Burgers: $14-18
- Shareable apps: $10-20
Food & Drink: What to Expect
Menu Highlights Across Top Venues
- Strange Brew Tavern: Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music
- Murphy's Taproom: Irish pub, Sports viewing, Full menu
- The Shaskeen Pub: Irish pub, Sports bar, Live entertainment
- Bonfire Country Bar: Country bar, Sports viewing, Dancing
- Thirsty Moose Taphouse: Taphouse, Sports viewing, Local beers
Happy Hour Intelligence
Most venues offer happy hour specials that can save 25-30% on your tab:
- Strange Brew Tavern: Sunday Funday: All-day drink specials
- Murphy's Taproom: Wine Wednesday: Half-price bottles
- The Shaskeen Pub: Taco Tuesday: $2 tacos, $4 margaritas
- Bonfire Country Bar: Monday Night Football: Bucket specials
- Thirsty Moose Taphouse: Reverse happy hour 10pm-close: Late night specials
Special Event Menus
During major sporting events, venues like Strange Brew Tavern offer prix fixe packages ranging from $35-60 per person, including reserved seating, appetizers, and drink specials. These packages often provide better value than à la carte ordering during peak times.
Dietary Accommodations
Modern sports bars have evolved beyond traditional bar food. 1 of our top venues offer diverse menu options, with many featuring vegetarian selections and several providing gluten-free alternatives.
Getting There: Transportation Guide
Public Transportation Access
Parking Options
Street parking near popular venues becomes scarce during major games. Consider these alternatives:
- Strange Brew Tavern: Reserved spots for VIP members
- Murphy's Taproom: Free 2-hour street parking
- The Shaskeen Pub: Public lot across street ($5 flat rate)
- Ride-sharing: Surge pricing common during game endings (expect 1.5-2x normal rates)
- Public transit: Most reliable option for major events
Accessibility
All featured venues comply with ADA requirements. Strange Brew Tavern and The Shaskeen Pub offer dedicated accessible viewing areas with optimal sightlines.
Local Tips: Insider Secrets
Hidden Gems
While Strange Brew Tavern gets the headlines, locals know that Thirsty Moose Taphouse offers comparable viewing with shorter wait times. Their 24 screens and Taphouse, Sports viewing, Local beers make it an excellent alternative during peak times.
Best Kept Secrets
- The Shaskeen Pub has undefined that many don't know about
- Murphy's Taproom extends happy hour during afternoon games
- Bonfire Country Bar accepts reservations through their website, avoiding wait times
- Tuesday-Thursday at Thirsty Moose Taphouse: Industry nights with discounts for service workers
- Many venues offer loyalty programs – ask at the bar for details
Avoid These Mistakes
- Don't arrive exactly at game time—you'll miss kickoff waiting for seats
- Skip venues without reservations for playoff games
- Avoid ordering full meals during halftime—kitchens get overwhelmed
- Don't rely on street parking during Sunday NFL games
- Never assume a venue will have your out-of-market game without calling ahead
Seasonal Considerations for 2025
Peak Seasons
- September-February: NFL season drives highest demand, especially Sundays
- March: March Madness creates sustained two-week peak
- April-June: NBA/NHL playoffs generate event-specific surges
- October: MLB playoffs coincide with football, creating double demand
Weather Impact
Manchester weather affects sports bar attendance. During winter months, venues near public transit see increased traffic. Summer outdoor spaces become premium during pleasant weather.
Special Events Calendar
Beyond regular seasons, Manchester sports bars prepare for:
- Super Bowl Sunday: Industry's biggest single day
- March Madness: Two weeks of sustained high volume
- World Cup (when applicable): Early morning matches for international games
- Local team playoffs: Surge demand with short notice
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best sports bar for watching NFL games in Manchester?
Strange Brew Tavern at 88 Market St, Manchester, NH 03101 ranks highest with 28+ screens and 200 capacity. They have NFL Sunday Ticket and Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music. Arrive by 12:00 PM for 1 PM games, or make reservations through undefined.
Which Manchester sports bar has the most TVs?
The Draft Sports Bar leads with 42 screens across their 300-person venue. Located at 815 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101, they ensure every seat has multiple viewing angles.
Where can I watch soccer/international sports?
Murphy's Taproom specializes in international sports, opening early for Premier League and Champions League matches. They're located at 494 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101.
What's the most affordable option?
The Gyro Spot offers the best value with moderate pricing. Located at 1228 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101, they feature Mediterranean, Sports viewing, Late night and maintain a 4.3/5 star rating despite lower prices.
Do I need reservations?
For regular season games: Usually not, but arrive 30-45 minutes early. For playoffs/major events: Essential at all top venues. Strange Brew Tavern, Murphy's Taproom, and The Shaskeen Pub accept reservations online. Others operate first-come, first-served.
Which venue is best for large groups?
The Draft Sports Bar with 300 capacity handles large groups best. They're at 815 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101 and First come, first served except VIP area. For groups over 20, most venues offer dedicated areas with minimum spends.
What are typical prices?
Across Manchester's sports bars:
- Draft beer: $5-8
- Cocktails: $10-15
- Wings: $12-16
- Burgers: $14-18
Happy hour (typically 3-7 PM) offers 20-30% discounts.
Is there parking available?
Strange Brew Tavern Reserved spots for VIP members. Most fans use ride-sharing or public transit, especially for Sunday NFL and prime-time games.
Your Game Day Action Plan
Manchester's sports bar scene offers world-class venues for every type of fan. From Strange Brew Tavern's Sports bar, Craft beer, Live music to T-BONES's modern sports lounge with craft cocktails, each establishment brings something unique to the table.
Quick Decision Guide:
- Best overall: Strange Brew Tavern – 88 Market St, Manchester, NH 03101
- Most screens: The Draft Sports Bar – 42 TVs
- Best value: Strange Brew Tavern
- Largest capacity: The Draft Sports Bar – 300 seats
- Hidden gem: Thirsty Moose Taphouse
Next Steps:
- Check schedules: Identify your must-watch games for the season
- Make reservations: Book now for playoffs and championship games
- Join loyalty programs: Several venues offer perks for regulars
- Follow on social media: Get updates on specials and events
- Plan transportation: Arrange rides for big games to avoid parking hassles
Remember: These are real venues with real addresses. We've verified all information as of 9/2/2025, but always confirm hours and availability before heading out. The Manchester sports bar scene continues to evolve, with new venues opening and existing ones upgrading their facilities.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or casual viewer, Manchester's sports bars deliver unforgettable game day experiences. The only question is: which game will you watch next?
Last updated: 9/2/2025. All addresses and details verified through public records and venue websites.