We’re all about living a healthy, active lifestyle here at #FrayLife, but let’s be honest, there’s just something deliciously irresistible about clogging your arteries with greasy fried food and cold draft beer while watching world-class athletes compete on the highest stage.

Sports bars are an essential part of game day, but finding your go-to sports bar is not a task you should take lightly. You need a watering hole with plenty of TVs, mouth-watering specials, and loyal fans rooting on the Phoenix home teams.

To help make your decision-making easier, here are the #FrayLife picks for the 3 of the most essential sports bars in Phoenix:

Goldie’s

Zipps is the go-to spot to watch a game throughout the Valley because its happy hour, where $5 32-ounce draft beers flow like the mighty stream of Victoria Falls, is the subject of local legend,. Zipps’ one drawback, however, is the dreaded “dead zone.” It’s the brutal hour between 7 and 8 p.m. where sports fans are forced to pay full price for oversized beer and spicy wings. Looking to avoid the dead zone?

Make a trip to Goldie’s Sports Cafe. This close cousin of Zipps has the same legendary menu and specials, only there’s no 7 p.m. cutoff for happy hour. They also have massive TV’s and rowdy locals for big games.

#FrayLife Tip: Looking to avoid crowds? Head upstairs for a more private area. The second-level has shuffleboard, darts, and a staffed bar.

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers is like something a scientist cooked up with the intention of creating the perfect sports bar and this local chain delivers on their promise for draft beer and tasty burgers. Each of their seven Valley locations has no shortage of draft beer, TVs, and junk food. Speaking of food, their menu is chock full of creative inventions that go above and beyond traditional bar food. You’ll find things like totchos (tater tot nachos), Buffalo chicken egg rolls, and the aptly named hangover burger.

#FrayLife Tip: Up for a challenge? Start with at least three burger patties and add as many as you want. If you eat your burger in a record time, you’ll be immortalized on the wall of fame. It’s the average Joe equivalent of competing at the highest level. Why let athletes have all the fun?

Majerle’s Sports Grill

Let’s face it: being an Arizona sports fan is rough. We’ve overcome countless buzzer beaters, playoff heartbreak, and devastating trades. No one knows that better than a Phoenix Suns fans. This once proud franchise seems to redefine rock bottom with every passing season. You can relive the Suns’ glory days by making a trip to Majerle’s Sports Grill. Majerle’s is owned by Phoenix Suns legend “Thunder” Dan Majerle. Each of his four Valley locations is filled with throwback memorabilia that beckons memories of a greater era. Opt for the Gorilla wings, slam dunk shrimp, or a large domestic draft to wash down the pain of the latest Phoenix Suns failure. Cheers!

What’s your favorite sports bar to hit up when you want to enjoy the game with cold beer, snacks, and other passionate fans?

Next time you’re there, make sure to tag us in your social posts using #FrayLife!

Looking for some secluded spots that offer a unique drinking experience? Check out these cool underground bars here!