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If you're a huge sports fan looking for a spot to watch the big game, you might want to consider the South Side Grille, the Mahopac sports bar that declares itself the home of the "best damn sports viewing in the area – period."
No matter how many games sports fans "hypothetically" bet on, this place is well-equipped to accommodate their needs. It's got the ideal combo of set-up (20 LCD TVs), grub (wing and beer specials throughout the week) and casual crowd (fans ahoy).
Attire: At South Side, almost anything goes when it comes to attire. Show up in a hoodie and sneaks or sport your favorite jersey. You'll fit right in. There are always a few girls who will dress it up a bit, but the overall consensus is that comfort is the way to go.
Vibe: Regardless of the day or night of the week, the free-and-easy vibe at South Side is always apparent. The crowd is as casual as the bar itself.
Restaurant by day and bar by night, South Side was recently renovated and expanded to combine the dining area with the sports bar. The result? Beautiful hardwood floors, tons of tables and space, and ultimately the perfect atmosphere for the biggest games on the tube.
Of course the mood of a sports bar often depends on the scoreboard, but customers can pump up the crowd with song selections on the juke box. Satellite radio is on when the juke isn't.
Entertainment: So, yeah, by now you've deduced that the game's probably on at South Side. But what can you do when halftime rolls around or if you want a distraction from the bloodbath on the field? Play darts at one of the four dart boards, set up a beer pong tourney with your friends at the two regulation beer pong tables, or take over the pool table that has plenty of wiggle room.
Have in hand: It's hard not to smile during Happy Hours Monday to Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. The Friday version thereof even includes a free buffet and live music.
According to general manager Chris Chach, beer isn't the only thing to go with the popular boneless wings. “Our bartenders are always inventing new and exciting drinks for our customers,” he said.
Pick me up: If you're looking for more than traditional games, South Side hosts plenty of events, from holiday bashes to private parties. And on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, when DJs provide live entertainment, a younger, less sports-crazed crowd hits the bar and sometimes creates a de facto dance floor.
Chach said that while sports fans make up most of the bar's crowd, it's a diverse group. “In the bar area you'll always find a strong cross-section of both women and men, all enjoying a great time out,” he said.
After all, some games aren't played on the field.
Want a look inside? Check out All Access: South Side Grille.
