Where to Watch March Madness in the Bradenton/Sarasota Area

Are you getting excited for March Madness? If your apartment isn’t big enough to host your gatherings for the games, try staking out a great sports bar instead. There are several distinctive picks around the Bradenton and Sarasota area. Whether you’re in the mood for burgers and beer or cocktails and seafood, you’ll find what you’re craving with a great view of the game.

1. Evie’s Tavern & Grill
4725 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota
1.9 miles from Springs at Bee Ridge

Evie’s is a popular local destination for cold drinks, generous meal portions and catching the latest game. The extensive menu includes burgers, pizza, wings, calzones and hot dogs. While the soup of the day changes, you’ll always find Boar’s Head Chili on the menu as a favorite feature. If you’re planning on visiting often for March Madness, make sure to sign up for the Customer Loyalty Program. You’ll get one point for every dollar you spend. Earn 100 points and get a $10 Evie’s gift certificate.

2. Gecko’s Grill & Pub
4310 SR 64 E, Bradenton

The Gecko’s Grill & Pub at Braden River Plaza features 17 flat screen HD TVs as well as two projection screens. From the bar to the booths, you’ll find plenty of options for settling in with a great view of the game. Wings, burgers, sandwiches and flatbreads are only the beginning with this massive menu. Enjoy sophisticated picks like bacon-wrapped bison meatloaf, five-way chili pasta, mahi-mahi and more.

3. Siesta Key Oyster Bar
5238 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota
9.8 miles from Springs at Bee Ridge

Located in the happening Siesta Key Village, this is a great spot for bellying up to the bar and catching a game. If you want an alternative to traditional bar fare, this is the place to go. The oysters are the main draw, but you’ll also find jumbo shrimp, fried calamari, clam chowder and crab stuffed lobster on the menu. For fresh seafood and a friendly atmosphere during March Madness, SKOB can’t be beat.

4. Slim’s Place
9701 Gulf Drive North, Anna Maria
10.4 miles from Springs at Palma Sola

With 12 televisions, you can always catch the latest game at Slim’s Place. If you’re itching to get to the beach but you don’t want to miss a minute of March Madness, this is the perfect choice. Head out to Anna Maria Island and grab a bite at Slim’s. The menu includes a little of everything including filet mignon, lobster mac and cheese, tacos, bratwurst, pizza and burgers.

Do you have a spot picked out for March Madness? Tell us where you’ll be catching the games in the comments section below.