In this recent
article, I listed my top spots in Canberra to watch this year's State of Origin series. We're down to Game Three now and the series has already been won – as a Maroons fan that's the last I'll say on that matter – but that's not to say the show is all over. State of Origin III takes place on 11 July 2018 which means there are two weeks of drama, potshots and inept analysis left to come. So why not book front row seats to the culmination of this year's series at Canberra's newest sports joint?
Bleachers Sports Bar on Northbourne Avenue
Bleachers is an American sports bar located in the Melbourne Building on Northbourne Avenue and has only been open for a few weeks. In my earlier article, I noted the three elements which make a good sports bar – atmosphere, food and TV size – and I have to say, Bleachers' TVs are spectacular. They are everywhere and they are clear. And they are loud. I hate to admit it but I like to hear the commentary during the big games. How else can I understand how the referee can justify another poor call?
Perfect footy food: burger and fries
The atmosphere was great for Game Two and there was a decent, noisy crowd. The food is American-themed which means (I guess?) wings, fried chicken, hot dogs and something called a Philly cheesesteak. I can't speak for those things but I can vouch for the loaded fries and the vegetarian burger. Unfortunately, I didn't get to the dessert menu on the night but it did look sufficiently wicked. Wine was a bit pricey but I suspect beer is the beverage of choice there, with a wide variety of beers on tap and other drinks and spirits available.
Bleachers is open 7 days and, being in the city, there's plenty of paid parking around. It's still early days for Bleachers but the concept is cool. They're going to play all the big games from around the world and at all hours of the day, which is great news for local NBA, EPL and NFL fans. And while I didn't get the sporting result I wanted on the night when I visited, I did find a new local joint to add to my rotation of viewing venues for future Dragons/Broncos/Brumbies/Socceroos games.
