Get ready to push your responsibilities aside, people. The unofficial American holiday is approaching and is within days of our reach. Couch potatoes and beer bellies all across the nation are feverish in anticipation. And frankly, so are the exercise junkies and veggie eaters.
That’s right, football goers and halftime-show lovers: It’s Super Bowl time! Whether you’re stoked to see the game or you’re just in it for the cool commercials, there’s one thing that we are all unanimously looking forward to — some good ol’ game-day, tailgate-worthy grub.
If you’re looking for a place to watch the game and eat delicious food, I’ve got two amazing locations that will make the Super Bowl a guaranteed success — no matter which team wins.
Father’s Office
Spotlighted in Food Network’s show “The Best Thing I Ever Ate,” this upscale burger bar is the perfect nook for sports fans. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll instantly be captivated by the aroma of sizzling patties and fried everything. The light, wooden interior and long, happening bar creates a modern, rustic ambiance for watching the game with great food in good company. Pick a seat wherever you’d like, and step up to the counter to place your order. If you’re grabbing a spot at the bar, ladies, you’ll be happy to know there are hooks for your purses underneath! Gotta love those little details.
Choose from the extensive selection of beer on tap and order the famous “Office Burger.” Talk about a touchdown! The succulent patty is topped with caramelized onions, crispy bacon, Gruyere cheese, Maytag Blue cheese and fresh arugula. The burger is exploding with flavor and juices that could arguably evoke the same level of pure joy as winning the Lombardi trophy. Top that with an order of sweet potato frites in a basket and the game is over. Thin, crispy, hand-cut fries with fried sage and roasted garlic are the perfect compliment to LA’s greatest burger. Dip those into tasty bleu cheese aioli, and there you have it folks — a clear winner.
Location: 1018 Montana Ave Santa Monica, 90403
Note: Must be 21 & older
Barney’s Beanery
Multiple flat screen TVs, hot wings and milkshakes — who could ask for a better combination? Ladies and gentlemen, I have discovered the ultimate haven for football fanatics everywhere, or any kind of sports fanatic, for that matter. The brick walls covered with colorful lights, posters, vinyl records and other random artifacts produce a lively and inviting atmosphere. The flux of trays floating by with enticing packed nachos, jalapeno poppers and BBQ sliders are just as inviting. This place takes the traditional American favorites like burgers, wings and potato skins, and (in typical California fashion) adds some south of the border flare.
The broad menu offers everything from stuffed burritos and pepperoni pizza to baby back ribs and Barney’s world famous chili. While this dive bar offers any kind of comfort food you could possibly imagine, you absolutely must try my terribly guilty pleasure known as the BBQ chicken mac and cheese. Imagine creamy homemade mac and cheese with pieces of tender BBQ chicken breast and pickled jalapenos all in one warm bite. Add a cup of soup or salad, and it’s the perfect game day meal on a cold day in February. If the game itself isn’t enough to spike your interest, how about creating your own game? This poppin’ place has pool tables, air hockey, foosball and an arcade to entertain you.
Location: 1351 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica, 90401
If you’re not in a total food coma after your delicious meal, why not top off the event with some ice cream? Go big or go home, right?
Sweet Rose Creamery
After the game, enjoy the unique flavor combinations and organic homemade blends of this little ice cream shop that is far from ordinary and takes traditional ice cream to a whole new level. Think you’ve tried it all? How about Milo & Olive brioche buns filled with creamy vanilla ice cream, cinnamon sauce and crispy bacon?
Maybe you’re in the mood for something a little less extreme. Have the butterscotch crunch sundae or banana milkshake. But my personal favorite is the classic salted-caramel ice cream — it’s life-changing. Each month, the creamery releases new seasonal flavors using the best of the local farmer’s market. The greatest of January, you ask? Guava frozen yogurt and spicy chocolate ice cream. I can only imagine what satisfying flavors February will bring.
Location: 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 90402
Happy Super Bowl, everyone!
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