Any coach who has enjoyed a glorious Gatorade bath following a big win can tell you that preparation is key to any victory. And if the viewers at home are to learn anything from that lesson, it’s that selecting the right bar in which to view the game — or commercials, if that’s your thing — can make all the difference. Luckily we’ve done that homework for you.
1. The Longest Yard, 122 Fifth St., West Des Moines, 274-1710
This Valley Junction mainstay is known as much for its unwavering loyalty to the Iowa Hawkeyes as it is for its yard- and half-yard-high beers. The Longest Yard also boasts a full menu of sandwiches and specialties, including a hand-breaded tenderloin. Super Bowl specials include $2.50 domestic draws and $2.75 domestic bottles.
2. Maverick’s Sports Pub, 165 S. Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, 226-8407
Maverick’s has 20 TVs, which means there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Add to that a selection of 50 craft, domestic and imported beers, 80 different types of wine and a full food menu, and it becomes even harder to argue against finding a perch at one of West Des Moines’ newest sports bars. Super Bowl specials include $2.50 Captain Morgan drinks, $2.50 domestic bottles, $2.50 draws and $2.50 Fireball whiskey.
3. Flying Moose, 8980 Hickman Road, Clive, 251-7000
Large groups won’t have an issue congregating at this friendly Clive neighborhood hangout. Oversized tables are awaiting football fans who may be interested in trying a local brew in addition to standard domestics and imports; past local taps have included options from Olde Main, Millstream, Raccoon River Brewing Co. and Court Avenue Brewing Co. Super Bowl specials will include $1 off all drinks and $5 pitchers of domestic beer.
