By Scott Miller
I’ll bet you never expected we would have a 12-team college football playoff taking place this year without the Crimson Tide involved. Sorry Alabama fans, I know y’all are still letting that sink in. But I’d be remiss not to talk about it. The Nick Saban led Alabama football team has had an unprecedented run this past decade or so—there is no denying that. But, we are walking through a whole new era in college football these days. So, I guess it’s really not a big surprise when you think about it.
Conferences are different now, college kids are getting paid now, this thing we call the transfer portal is really shaking things up now and on and on we go. It sure has made for an interesting season this year.
So, fans, get ready for the big finale. It’s time for Bowl Games and Playoff Games all mixed up together and coming soon to a big screen TV near you.
Will Penn State have what it takes to beat an outstanding Notre Dame team to advance to the championship game? Does Texas have what it takes to handle the dominating Ohio State Buckeyes?
I can’t wait to find out. And of course January means pro football playoffs are here. The Lions look unstoppable. The Chiefs are, well the Chiefs are the Chiefs which means they are capable of running the table again this year. The Ravens and the Eagles are hard to count out. Sounds like a wild ride to the end. Where will you be watching? We’re in for some super exciting football, college or pro. Find your favorite sports bar, grab a seat and don’t miss a minute of the action.
Here are some of my favorite places to go on game day. I hope to see you there, too!
AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
For 40 years, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar has been serving cold Gulf Coast oysters and cool libations. What began as a popular local hang out known for fresh oysters and cold beer has grown into one of the most iconic “hot spots” on the Destin Harbor. From its humble beginning shucking oysters off the deck behind a small trailer on the Destin Harbor, it has grown to four locations along our Emerald Coast, serving fresh seafood, live music and exciting water activities in the Destin area. Attention all die hard football fans, AJ’s boasts the one and only Jumbotron on the Destin Harbor, where you can watch your favorite games on the BIG, BIG screen surrounded by the energy and beauty of the Destin Harbor. AJ’s serves up delicious daily specials, mouth-watering drinks plus entertaining live music all month, too. Don’t miss any of the action! Come on down to AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar all season long.
(850)837-1913
116 Harbor Blvd.
ajsdestin.com
Austons on 98
Offering an amazing raw oyster bar and the best happy hour in town, Austons is the place to be and home of the 102-foot bar, including 32 beers on draft! Some of the specialties include little neck clams, freshly shucked raw oysters, New England-style clam chowder and jumbo shrimp cocktail. With big screen TVs all around and football season upon us, there’s no bad seat in the house. So, come by and watch the games all season long. Happy Hour Specials from Monday-Friday, 2-5 p.m., $2 off all bar drinks and Monday-Friday from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. $3 off a dozen raw oysters. Bucket Specials all day every day. Auston’s on 98 is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and features its own “Real Deal Nashville Hot Sauce.” View full menu at austonson98.com.
(850) 842-3200
125 Poinciana Blvd., Miramar Beach
Austonson98.com
Boathouse Oyster Bar
Oysters, live music and a local vibe, the Boathouse is where the locals go with live music every night. Located in the heart of Destin on the Destin Harbor, the Boathouse specializes in making oysters a delicacy. Boathouse’s gumbo recipe was written by Mama Gumbo herself. And, of course, the oysters are raw, steamed or baked, just the way you like ‘em. The first Friday of each month, The Boathouse hosts locals on the Destin Harbor from 5-7 p.m. Listen and move with live entertainment daily. See ad for bands and times. Music schedule subject to change. Follow on Facebook for updates. During or after the game, mosey on over to hang with the locals.
(850) 837-3645
288-B Harbor Blvd., Destin
Boathouseoysterbardestin.com
Tailfins Waterfront Grill
Hey football fans, Tailfins Waterfront Grill is calling YOU! That’s right y’all, Destin’s favorite season is here and there’s not a better place in Destin to come and watch your team play.
Looking for a locals’ favorite breakfast before the game? Start your day off right with Tailfins breakfast from 8-11 a.m., seven days a week. Enjoy a classic breakfast with bacon and eggs, a seafood or Cajun omelet and even a kid’s smiley pancake. Be sure to order up a round of mimosas and bloody marys. Watch Tailfins’ sushi chef create right in front of your eyes. Enjoy some of your favorite food and drinks, scrumptious early bird dinner specials Monday to Friday, 4-6 p.m. Happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, featuring $24 domestic bottle buckets, $7 house wines and well drinks and $5 Long Island iced teas. Live music on the docks. Tailfins is a go-to destination for sports watching featuring more than 70 big screen TVs showing all college football games and Sunday Ticket.
(850) 650-1200
On the Harbor in Destin, 172 Harbor Blvd.
tailfinsdestin.com
Tequila’s Sports Bar & Grill
Did someone say Margaritas? Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant is a local favorite, with world class, jumbo-sized margaritas, Mexican food favorites inspired by years of tradition and authentic spices such as the Tequila’s Plate, chili con carne, The Three Amigos and the new Master Parrillada – a unique fusion of sports bar food and delightful Mexican dishes. Football season is here, so don’t miss a game all season long. Celebrate Taco Tuesdays with 2-for-1 margaritas. Lunch specials are offered Monday-Friday for $8.99. “Our love lies in the food we make and the connections we create with our customers every day,” says Oni, Tequila’s owner. “Our goal is to have the widest selection of tequila brands in town. You’re sure to find your favorites here.” Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner or call ahead to place your take out and to-go orders.
EAT. DRINK. FIESTA!
(850) 279.6402
11225 U.S. 98 W., Miramar Beach
Tequilasmiramarbeach.com
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