How to Reserve a Table at a Sports Bar for Big Games
Super Bowl Sunday is the biggest night of the year for sports bars, and if you want a guaranteed seat with a good view of the screen, you need to plan ahead. The short answer: call the bar directly at least two to three weeks before the game, ask about their reservation policy, and be ready to pay a deposit or meet a minimum spend. Some bars take reservations online, others only by phone, and many don't take reservations at all—so knowing how to reserve a table at a sports bar for Super Bowl is part skill, part timing. This guide walks you through every step, from picking the right bar to locking in your spot.
Start Early: Why Timing Matters for Super Bowl Reservations
Sports bars fill up fast on Super Bowl Sunday. Most start taking reservations as soon as the conference championships end, which is about two weeks before the big game. If you wait until game week, you'll likely be stuck standing or squeezed into a corner with a bad view.
A good rule of thumb: decide where you want to watch the game at least three weeks in advance. Call the bar and ask when they open their reservation book. Some popular spots open bookings a month ahead. Set a reminder on your phone so you don't miss the window.
Also, consider the kickoff time. If you're okay with arriving an hour early and grabbing a first-come, first-served seat, you might not need a reservation at all. But if you're rolling with a group of six or more, reserve ahead. It's the only way to guarantee you'll sit together.
How to Find Sports Bars That Take Super Bowl Reservations
Not every sports bar takes reservations. Some are strictly walk-in, especially on game days. Your first job is to figure out which bars in your area actually accept bookings.
Use a local sports bar finder app or website—like Tap & Screen—to filter bars by "reservations accepted" or "Super Bowl specials." You can also check the bar's social media pages. Most post their Super Bowl plans a few weeks out, including whether they're taking reservations and what the minimum spend is.
When you call, ask these questions: - Do you take reservations for Super Bowl Sunday? - Is there a deposit or minimum spend per person? - How long can we keep the table? - What's the cancellation policy?
If the answer is no, ask if they offer VIP packages or table service. Some bars that don't take regular reservations still sell guaranteed tables as part of a package that includes food and drinks.
Step-by-Step: How to Reserve a Table at a Sports Bar for Super Bowl
Once you've found a bar that takes reservations, here's how to lock it in:
- Call during off-peak hours. Don't call during a busy Friday or Saturday night. Try a weekday afternoon. You'll get more attention and better information.
- Have your details ready. Know the number of people, your preferred arrival time, and your budget. The bar will ask.
- Ask about the deposit. Many bars require a credit card to hold the table, and some charge a deposit that goes toward your bill. Confirm the amount and whether it's refundable.
- Confirm the minimum spend. This is common on Super Bowl Sunday. It might be $50 per person or a flat $200 for a table of four. Make sure everyone in your group knows.
- Get a confirmation. Ask for an email or text confirmation. If they don't offer one, write down the name of the person you spoke to and the date and time you called.
- Call back to reconfirm. A few days before the game, call again to confirm your reservation. This is especially important if you booked weeks in advance.
If the bar uses an online booking system like OpenTable or Resy, you can reserve there. But for Super Bowl, many bars prefer phone calls so they can explain the rules. Either way, follow up.
What If the Bar Doesn't Take Reservations?
Plenty of sports bars don't take reservations for Super Bowl Sunday. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If that's the case, you have a few options.
Arrive early. Doors often open two to three hours before kickoff. Get there when they open, and you'll have your pick of seats. Bring a friend to hold the table while you order drinks.
Look for VIP or table packages. Some bars sell guaranteed tables as a package. You pay a flat fee that includes a table, food, and drinks. It's more expensive, but you don't have to worry about showing up early.
Try a smaller bar or a restaurant with a bar area. Neighborhood bars and restaurants with a few TVs are often less crowded. They might not have a huge screen, but you can still catch the game and get a seat.
Consider a watch party. Some bars host ticketed watch parties with reserved seating. You buy a ticket in advance, and your spot is guaranteed. Check local event listings or the bar's social media.
If you're set on a specific bar that doesn't take reservations, call ahead and ask what time they recommend arriving. They'll give you a realistic answer.
Tips for a Smooth Super Bowl Reservation
A few extra moves can make your reservation go smoothly:
- Be flexible on arrival time. If you can arrive when doors open, you'll have more leverage. Bars are more likely to hold a table for early arrivals.
- Confirm the number in your party. Don't show up with more people than you reserved for. Bars plan seating based on headcount, and extra guests can get you bumped.
- Dress the part. You're going to a sports bar, not a nightclub, but wearing team gear is fine. Just don't be the person who shows up in a full costume and blocks the screen.
- Tip well. If you want to come back next year, take care of your server. A good tip goes a long way toward getting a prime table again.
- Have a backup plan. If your reservation falls through, know a second bar nearby that takes walk-ins. Super Bowl Sunday is not the time to wing it.
Also, if you're using a sports bar finder app, save your favorite bars and check their Super Bowl announcements. Many post updates on social media, and some offer early reservation links to followers.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I reserve a table at a sports bar for the Super Bowl?
Aim for two to three weeks before the game. Popular bars open their reservation books right after the conference championships, and they fill up fast. If you wait until game week, you'll likely miss out.
Do sports bars charge a deposit for Super Bowl reservations?
Many do. It's common for bars to require a credit card to hold the table or a cash deposit that goes toward your bill. Some also set a minimum spend per person. Always ask about the deposit and minimum when you book.
What if the sports bar doesn't take reservations?
If the bar is first-come, first-served, arrive when doors open—usually two to three hours before kickoff. You can also look for VIP packages or ticketed watch parties that guarantee a seat.
Can I reserve a table online for Super Bowl Sunday?
Some bars use online booking platforms like OpenTable or Resy, but many prefer phone calls for big games so they can explain the rules. Check the bar's website or social media for instructions.
How many people can I reserve a table for?
Most bars take reservations for groups of four to eight. Larger groups may need to book multiple tables or a private area. Call ahead to confirm the maximum party size.