Sips, Snacks, & Sports

Russell Wilson’s departure from the Seattle Seahawks has not diminished the city’s fandom for the 12^th Man. Not a football fan? Word is the Mariners are going to make the playoffs for the first time in more than 20 years, the Sounders are ready for the full 90, and the Kraken are set to take the ice.

There are some fantastic bars with big screens throughout the neighborhood ready and waiting for fans of all kinds. Stop in for sips and bites and to cheer on your favorite teams this fall.

Paying homage to classic Northwest bars with its 1970s vibe, chef Renee Erickson’s King Leroy (2051 Seventh Ave.) touts a cozy bar space with a couple of big screens. Munch on snacks like beef jerky from Bateau, CB’s Peanuts, smoked oysters, a variety of dips, and house made jalapeno poppers, or go big with King Leroy’s buttermilk-brined fried chicken wings. Wash it down with a Rainier Tallboy or Miller High Life Pony or get fancy with a carefully crafted house cocktail. kingleroyseattle.com

The Lodge Sports Grille Denny (501 Fairview Ave. N.) is a true sports bar in South Lake Union. This Washington chainlet with locations in West Seattle, Kirkland, and beyond offers plenty of thirst-quenching drink options, plus an extensive food menu, too. With a weekend happy hour from 9:30am to 1:00pm, Denny Lodge is a great spot for the morning games on Sunday. Expect $1 off drafts, wells, and six-ounce wine pours, plus discounts on game-appropriate noshes like nachos, boneless wings, and flatbreads. thelodgesportsgrill.com

Sam’s Tavern (400 Ninth Ave. N.) claims to be “saving the world with burgers and beers,” so it’s probably a great idea to save yourself a spot for game day (call ahead to reserve a table for optimal sports viewing). They do everything larger than life here (nachos, fries, burgers, wings, and burritos menus all carry a “crazy loaded” title), so budget those calories for a Sunday splurge. Sam’s Tavern features rotating draft beers and ciders, a nice selection of cans and bottles, and a decent cocktail list too. The Bloody Mary is a must — this behemoth is stacked with garnishes, including an actual cheeseburger. That’s what we call a win. samstavernseattle.com