A rough sketch of the conversations of every college basketball fan in America : “March Madness! March Madness! Upsets! Brackets! March Madness!”
And guess what? All the fun of the Sweet 16, bracketology and that Cinderella story in the making is coming here.
But you already knew that.
Somewhere in those 100 glorious, basketball-filed hours of the weekend, you discovered whether or not your team, or the team that beat your team, or the team you picked to win your bracket is coming to the U.S Airways Center this Thursday.
So dig out your  green / red / blue / gold and hustle yourself Downtown. If you’re going to the game or just planning to watch all the action close to the action, here’s our shortlist of where to grab a bite or a celebratory brew:
Majerle’s Sports Grill
The sports bar of sports bars. A hop, skip and a travel to the stadium, this place was made for all your basketball loving ways. If you’re in a rush, swing by Downtown Pizza Lounge right next door and grab a slice before heading off to the game.
Alice Cooper’stown
Right next to Chase Field, this is another one of those Phoenix giants in the sports bar world. Amazing hotdogs, award winning barbecue, this place takes watching the game to a whole ‘nother level.
Arrogant Butcher
On the steps of the U.S Airways Center, this place has some seriously good eats. Start with the Pretzel with Provolone Fondue appetizer or grab a Turkey Pastrami sandwich. If you’re a Louisville fan, they’ve got the official Cardinal’s pre-game party on Thursday.
Coach & Willie’s
It seems like there’s a TV everywhere you look in this hopping joint. The beer is cold, the games are blasting and the food is delicious.
Tom’s Tavern
Maybe you want to watch the games outside where your deafening yells of joy and disappointment can be heard for blocks. Maybe you want to heckle the losers or high five the winners as they file past on Central Avenue. Or maybe you just want to get their killer pulled pork sandwich.
Lucky Strike Lanes and Lounge

There isn’t just bowling at this swanky little place. There’s also 12 big TVs and a solid game-day atmosphere. Bonus:  if your team loses, you always have the chance to redeem some of those lost bets over a game of ten pin.
Networks Bar and Grill
The food here is fan friendly and the happy hour specials rock. You can even bust out your chopsticks skills over sushi, just don’t stab your neighbor when your team loses.
Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery
Floor-to-ceiling TV, a massive bar and all the fun of watching the game at a pub.
Hooters
TVs, beers and as many wings as you can wolf down.
Photo by Salvatore Vuono