If you’re seeking a respite from the over-the-top tourist gimmicks in Pensacola Beach, look no further than Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant. This establishment has been consistently ranked as the Best Sports Bar in the Best of the Bay competition held by Pensacola News Journal. Rather than try to sell overpriced, beach-themed foods to tourists, Sidelines sticks to a proven recipe: classic pub fare mashed with fresh seafood selections.
Sidelines is located right in the heart of Pensacola Beach next to the Hampton Inn and Tiki Island Mini Golf, meaning it’s easily walkable from the sandy beaches and multiple accommodation choices.
The exterior of the restaurant is not overly attractive or appealing; it’s simply a pale brick building with a forest green roof and some outdoor seating. But once you step inside, you’ll know why so many locals love this location.
Throughout the dimly lit space are a total of 38 HD TVs scattered around the bar and tables. Eight of these are massive 52-inch big screens that are perfect for watching important games. In fact, if you’re an out-of-towner seeking to catch your local game on TV, there’s a good chance Sidelines can accommodate you with their 15 different satellite receivers.
Settle into a spacious booth and start perusing the menu while your kiddies flock to the small arcade off to the side. Sidelines is definitely a family-friendly establishment, so don’t be intimidated to bring along your brood even though this is technically a bar. Underage patrons can enjoy soft drinks, while adults can partake in fresh drafts, bottles, or a margarita on the rocks.
Some of our favorite snacks and dishes at Sidelines include:
Power Play Fries
Why not start with a heaping basket of fries to munch on? This mound of crispy potatoes is smothered with cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses and then topped with chives and bacon bits.
Wings
One of the main draws at Sidelines is their wings, and it’s easy to see why with 10 signature wing flavors to choose from and never-frozen meat. Get them in orders of five, 10, 15, or 20 and choose between a side of ranch or bleu cheese dressing.
Rajun’ Cajun Burger
Feeling adventurous? Try the Rajun’ Cajun Burger, which comes with a half pound of meat that’s been chargrilled and slathered with Cajun spice. After being topped off with peppers, sauteed onions, and Swiss cheese, it arrives with a generous side of fries as well as more Cajun sauce to throw on top.
Game Winning Catch
Since you’re in Florida, you might as well try some seafood, and the Game Winning Catch is one of your best options. It’s whatever has been caught fresh that day, either grilled, blackened, or fried to meet your specifications.
Key Lime Pie
What would dinner be without dessert? Indulge in the state pie of Florida, which comes topped with a decadent filling, a wedge of lime, and whipped cream.
Of course, these are just a few of the things you can order when you stop here after a long day at the beach. Pretty much any item on the menu will fulfill your hunger pangs, and when paired with an icy cold beer, it doesn’t get much better than an evening at Sidelines.
Insider Tips:
-Because Sidelines is a popular local joint, the atmosphere can get a little loud. Avoid this spot if you’re seeking an intimate night out with your partner.
-If things are too crowded, use the Yelp Nowait app to secure your spot in line ahead of time so you won’t have a long wait for a table.
-Pay close attention to the restaurant’s daily specials, which offer great food and drink discounts Monday through Thursday to help you save a buck.