Catch the Big Game at These 5 Great Sports Bars in Des Moines

If you're a sports fan, isn't it more fun to watch the game among a group of other enthusiasts? You can celebrate the wins and agonize over every bad call with people who know how you feel. We've assembled a list of the top five sports bars in Des Moines where you can eat, drink and cheer on all your favorite teams.

Chicken Coop Sports Bar
1960 Grand Avenue West
Des Moines 50265

The Chicken Coop has a casual, small-town feel that's perfect for sports-watching. With 20 TVs, including 12 HD sets, there isn't a bad seat in the house. As you might guess by the name, their signature dish is flame-broiled chicken wings that are seared with your choice of more than a dozen flavorful sauces.

Wellman's Pub and Rooftop
597 Market Street
West Des Moines 50266

Wellman's has a bonus in addition to the numerous TVs that line the inside of the pub. Between games, head up to their unique rooftop patio to enjoy the beautiful summer evenings. The upscale menu includes four varieties of mac 'n' cheese along with a grilled salmon club, Asian tuna wrap and other creative dishes.

The Front Row
9956 Swanson Boulevard
Clive 50325

This popular site has been named the "Ultimate Hawkeye Bar" by the Des Moines Register. From 9 to 11 a.m. on game days you can get the Bloody Mary bar with an all-you-can-eat breakfast of loaded omelettes, biscuits and gravy and French Toast for only $6. Join their VIP Hawkeye Club to receive invitations to monthly parties with free drinks as well as a free steak dinner on your birthday.

Johnny's Hall of Fame
302 Court Avenue
Des Moines 50309

Johnny's opened in 1962 as the first sports bar in Des Moines. In the interest of fairness, we are also including this as a favorite gathering place for ISU Cyclones fans. The bar moved from its original location in 1983, but it still retains an appealing retro feel. Dishes are named after beloved Iowa sports figures like the Johnny Orr BBQ Cheeseburger and the (Kyle) Orton Club Wrap.

The Longest Yard Sports Grill
122 - 5th Street
West Des Moines 50265

This bar is so sports-centric that it's named after a classic football movie. The extensive menu features bar-food favorites such as nachos and pizza along with inventive takes like the Beer Man's Burger topped with French fries, diced mozzarella cheese and brown gravy. If you're feeling adventurous, order a beer in one of their famous yard-long flutes.

What is your favorite spot to cheer on your team? Tell us about it in the comments!