There’s something about watching a big game in a sports bar that makes the whole experience a little more exciting. The people cheering around you, the bar food and the beer all seem to encapsulate what is most enjoyable about being a true sports fan. Here are a few of the best sports bars in Pittsburgh, where you can let your hair down and watch a game the right way. - Julia Mccandless

Silky’s Sports Bar and Grill

1731 Murray Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 421-9222

Silky’s is the kind of place where no matter what your age, interests or favorite sports team, you can always feel comfortable stopping by for a cold one. Equipped with multiple televisions, a jukebox and a shuffleboard table, this Squirrel Hill neighborhood bar is the place everyone wants to be because of it’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Although everyone from college kids to suit-wearing business people can be found at Silky’s year-round, crowds are known to flock there on big game days, so plan to go early. The beer selection here is extensive and the burgers are famously delicious, so plan to stop by, relax and enjoy yourself for as long as you can at one of Pittsburgh’s best sports bars. Hours: Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Piper’s Pub

1828 E Carson Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
(412) 381-3977
www.piperspub.com

This South Side pub is inspired by the British Isles, making it the best sports bar in Pittsburgh for soccer fans. With an extensive food and bar menu, there is bound to be something for everyone at this popular watering hole. One of the things that separate Piper’s Pub from other spots in the area is the massive selection of scotch they have to choose from, with approximately 100 different varieties from around the world. To fully embrace the Piper’s theme, we suggest trying the classic Shepherd’s Pie with an Imperial Pint (which is priced at under $6). For a fun, yet classy feel, Piper’s is a true find that gives sports bars a good name. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Buffalo Blues

216 S. Highland Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 362-5837
www.buffalobluespittsburgh.com

If you love to cheer and get loud while watching a game, this is the place to go. Serious sports fans flock to Buffalo Blues for the high energy it maintains and the massive televisions displayed near and around the bar. In addition to the animated crowds, there are 32 beers on tap to choose from, with beer specials offered year-round. Buffalo wings are appropriately the specialty here, but if you’re looking for something less carnivorous, there are also tasty sandwiches, burgers and salads to choose from. This place has the perfect combination of quality food, drinks and interesting people, making it one of the best sports bars in Pittsburgh. Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Saturday, noon to midnight; Sunday, noon to 10 p.m.