Sports bars are a communal celebration of competition. You gather with friends and share in the electric thrill of cheering your team to victory. You’ve earned this moment (aka navigated Hillsboro’s neighborhoods) and now you’re ready to raise a glass.
Player’s Box/VIP Live
$ | (503) 747-3249 | WEBSITE
This is a spacious, renovated sports bar in a nightlife district. The fantastic menu offers a wide variety of delectable options, but the must-visit is for the brand-new diamond pool tables. First, because they provide an exceptional gaming experience, and second, because they’re complemented by a diverse drink selection.
Player’s Box/VIP Live shares their weekend shows with talented performers that promise an enjoyable and lively atmosphere, but well-worth checking out if you’re game for the night turning into a fun adventure.
The Dugout – Hillsboro
$ | (503) 906-1198 | WEBSITE
Another sports bar spot, head to this strip mall hideaway for their basic American cheeseburger – a hefty patty sandwiched between Franz bread, topped with melted cheese and simple fixings. It struck us as straightforward the first time we tried it, but we keep coming back for this reliable pile of damn fine bar food and gently satisfying bites.
Topgolf
$$ | (503) 549-5197 | WEBSITE
Also not too far from the main drag, this is a lively sports venue with golf screens on the walls. Provided you can find your way in (the spacious entrance marked by bright signage is right off the parking lot, which you enter from the main road), Topgolf’s worth checking out at least once for a drink and some golf with Topgolf’s regulars. The food menus won’t be complicated, but the staff are all happy to help guide you and make recommendations.
The pretty good food won’t blow your mind, but Topgolf’s appetizers, dirty sodas, and range of drinks all beat the crap out of a typical sports bar’s offerings. You might witness some wild swings here, to which we can only comfort you with, ‘Forget it, Jake. It’s Topgolf.’
Schmizza Pub & Grub
$ | (503) 601-9007 | WEBSITE
You could come here for wings, a cold pint or a slice of pepperoni pizza. And you would be satisfied. But it’s their Mediterranean veggie pizza we like best: a generous pie topped with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, olives and herbs. Savor this pizza on a game day in October and you’ll be content like nothing else.
Prime Tap House: Tanasbourne
$ | (503) 746-5984 | WEBSITE
Prime Tap House: Tanasbourne makes fantastic chicken wings, meaty and known for their great flavors, often leaving the tips on. When you’re craving something crispy and satisfying after a long day, these marvelous wings with unique dry rubs and sauces are what you’re looking for.
Coyote’s Bar & Grill
$ | (503) 640-7225 | WEBSITE
Head to this lively sports bar primarily for their BBQ rib sandwich – a juicy, hot pile of tender meat on a fresh bun. And don’t miss the prime rib sandwich served with a side of crispy fries – perfectly seasoned beef piled high with melted cheese and onions. The happy hour beef nachos are a must-try, loaded with toppings and just the right amount of spice. The chocolate layered cake is the perfect sweet finish after a savory meal.
On Friday nights, the local band adds to the vibrant atmosphere, especially out on the patio with the fire table and tiki lights. Upstairs, the pool table and vintage shuffleboard keep the fun going between bites and drinks. While service can be hit or miss, the venue’s support for student concerts makes it a special spot for young musicians and their families. Overall, it’s a great place for friends to gather over solid food, cold drinks, and live tunes.
Wilson’s Cafe & Sports Bar
$ | (503) 648-5954 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in a corner of Hillsboro that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, you’ll discover a straightforward sports bar – emphasis on the straightforward. Pretty much everyone in here is enjoying the same thing: a plate of the Cheeseburger Bacon or Fish & Chips, served with your choice of sides, which you’re expected to customize yourself. Game day: satisfied.
Front Row Bar & Grill
$ | (503) 430-8342 | WEBSITE
When you’re tired of the usual pub grub but still crave that comforting sports bar experience, the chicken tenders with fries and blue cheese at this Hillsboro favorite hit the spot. The generous portion comes with perfectly crispy tenders, golden fries, and a tangy blue cheese dip that’s just right. Grab a crispy chicken sandwich to share with your crew. They’ve got the largest whiskey bar in town, with pours that won’t break the bank. Other solid spots for your game-day fix?
The buffalo chicken wrap and chicken quesadilla never disappoint.
Champions Sports Bar & Grill
$ | (503) 747-6063 | WEBSITE
This neighborhood sports bar is a local staple. Every game day, it becomes the place to be, and then settles back into what it is: a reliable spot that’s been one of the best hangouts in Hillsboro for years. Champions is first and foremost a bar, but their kitchen is solid. The BLT with an egg and sweet potato fries are tasty, the drinks are cold, and their service is top-notch. Grab one of their cozy booths or a picnic table outside before catching a game on one of their many TVs.
You might miss the first quarter. But you’ll be settled in for the main event.