San Diego Sports Bars: Top Spots to Cheer for LT!

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By Jessica Nager

Even if you’re not a die-hard LaDainian Tomlinson fan, you can still get caught up in the excitement of the Chargers’ awesome season. It’s not every year that a Charger sets an NFL record for the most single-season touchdowns, or that the team clinches the division. Ladies: score some serious extra points when you suggest one of the following sports bars to view the game. (Keep this list handy for baseball season, too!) Your guy will be so impressed, he may agree to that hour-long back massage that you’ve been hinting at.

Seau’s

For the ultimate NFL experience, take your guy to Seau’s. Named for and owned by the famous former Chargers linebacker, Seau’s opens for all Sunday NFL games at 9:30am. With 14,000 square feet and 60 televisions, not to mention immeasurable amounts of testosterone, Seau’s is a guaranteed hit. If you’d rather shop than watch the game, the Mission Valley Mall is home to Seau’s, so you can shop guilt-free and meet up after the game.

PB Bar and Grill

While PB Bar and Grill may be known for its late night dancing and drink specials, don’t underestimate its popularity for Sunday brunch. At PB Bar and Grill—just two blocks from the beach—you can view the games on the bountiful indoor and outdoor televisions. Stick around after the games for a round of pool and happy hour drink specials, or take a romantic, mid-day stroll on the quiet winter beaches.

McGregor’s Grill & Ale House

Everywhere you turn your head, you can see one of McGregor’s twelve high definition TVs. The pub fare is above average – and you’ll see many patrons setting their diets aside to indulge in the drunken onion rings and teriyaki chicken wings. This neighborhood pub is a second-home to many locals, so you’ll find yourself cheering and booing as loud as you would from the comfort of your own couch. But if the games just can’t capture your attention, McGregor’s also offers pool, darts, and shuffleboard as alternate activities – just make sure you don’t stand in front of a TV.

Shakespeare Pub & Grille

While the big screens may showcase British football during the rest of the week, Shakespeare’s tunes the telly to NFL games every Sunday. Load up on the fish n’chips (so big that they’re suitable for sharing) or shepherd’s pie, and raise your pints of Stella Artois to the Bolts. Shakespeare’s has a loyal clientele who feel comfortable yelling at the referees or high-fiving complete strangers after yet another LT touchdown. After a couple beers, you’ll join in too.

Photo: Copyright 2006 by Peggy Ryan