A Super Sunday in Long Beach, California
By: Jeff Baechler
Now that we know who will face off in Super Bowl XLIX, it is time to decide what to do for the big game. While it is hard to ignore the allure of a backyard barbecue, Long Beach offers a wide array of venues to watch the Seattle Seahawks battle the New England Patriots. There are several keys to a successful day of Super Bowl fun. First and most important, you must have good friends around to enjoy the game and rate the hilarious commercials, followed by great food and tasty beverages. Next, pick a venue. Do you go traditional and enjoy some football cheer at a house party? Or do you break the mold and head out into the unknown, stopping at your favorite watering hole? If you chose the latter, here are a couple suggestions to consider in the Long Beach area.
IT’S A SHORE THING
Belmont Shore
PANAMA JOE’S
5100 E 2nd St, 562.618.4445, www.panamajoescantina.com
Looking for a raucous crowd, great drink specials and good food? “PJ’s” is the place to go for the big game. Panama Joe’s will be offering free reservations for 8 or more and showing the game on over 60 HDTVs. They will be hosting a huge raffle with over $5, 000 in prizes during the game, including a beach cruiser, Go Pro’s, snowboards and lift tickets. If you can handle the heat, there will also be a cash prize for the winner of a Super Spicy Wing Challenge. If you have any questions, just call and talk to Anita.
LEGEND’S RESTAURANT & SPORTS BAR
5236 E 2nd St, 562.433.5743, www.legendssportsbar.com
Super Bowl Sunday at Legends, may not be their busiest day of the year, but it is, “Our most fun day of the year, ” according to co-owner Matt Peterson. Showing the game on a huge 30 ft HD projection screen, Legend’s towers over the competition come game day. They will be charging a $10 cover that will enter every patron in a raffle. Prizes to include snowboards, surfboards, and gift baskets. You may even find Matt on the microphone, he likes to MC the event.
Tip for the game: Call in advance and pick up some wings. Legend’s sells more than 100 pounds of wings for the game. They are delicious!!
RILEY’S
5331 E 2nd St, 562.856.1612, www.rileyslb.com
If you are looking for a down home environment with a fun and friendly feel, Riley’s is the place for you. Riley’s is reserving a seat for you to watch the game for $60. The price of admission includes a great seat, unlimited food from a selected menu, and free drinks (beer and wine) from 2p until the end of the game. One of the major draws that keep guests coming back to Riley’s is the service. Riley’s girls are quality individuals that work well together to make a great team. Danielle, Codi, Cheryl and the rest will ensure your experience will be super.
REACHING TO NEW HEIGHTS
Belmont Heights
GALLAGHER’S
2751 E Broadway, 562.856.8000, www.gallagherslongbeach.com
This stand-alone pub on the corner of Broadway and Temple has an eclectic and diverse following. Locals will flock to this watering hole for the big game. Despite being a “49ers” bar, Gallagher’s will be rocking with deals on bottomless mimosas served during the game. The staff has plans for super squares. Each square will be $5, and the board being filled by the guests on game day. Mandie has tended bar for the last three Super Bowls and expects a “fun and friendly atmosphere.”
DOWNTOWN BOUND
Pine Avenue
SHANNON’S ON PINE
209 Pine Ave, 562.436.4363, www.shannonsonpine.com
According to owner, Riley Hodges, Shannon’s on Pine is THE place to watch the Super Bowl XLIX. Located in Downtown Long Beach, with 20 HDTVs and a projector, 18 draft beers, full bar, booths and patio with food menu served all day, plan on a good time. Shannon’s will have reserved seating for $15, comes with a complimentary drink. There will be giveaways and pub games to participate in during half time and other breaks. They will be serving colored team shots to root for your favorite Super Bowl team!
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Long Beach/Lakewood
CIRIVELLO’S
4115 Viking Way, 562.421.0222, www.cirivelloslongbeach.com
Celebrating their first year under new ownership, Cirivello’s is on the comeback trail. With a bar in the back for the big kids, and a vast open space out front for any family to enjoy, Cirivello’s is the only place to make this list that caters to both young and old. Cirivello’s is the biggest venue of the list and can handle any crowd. Reservations are free and welcomed for the day of the game.
First Timer’s Guide To Fantasy Football
Jeff Baechler has earned his BA in History from California State University Long Beach as well as a teaching credential in social science from CSULB. He enjoys helping others through teaching and coaching. His hobbies include playing billiards, softball and traveling. He has been a “Gridiron Guru” and fantasy football enthusiast for over 20 years.
