Everyone in the Bay Area will be flocking to friends houses and bars this Sunday, gathering around TVs as the San Francisco 49ers play the New York Giants at Candlestick Park for a berth in the Super Bowl.
The game starts at 3:30 p.m. But if you weren't among the chosen few headed to the 'Stick for the big game, there are some choice viewing locales around Central and Southern Marin where you can order a pitcher, celebrate with friends and watch the red and gold strive for glory.
San Anselmo
114 Greenfield Ave, 456-3614
A 49ers stronghold since the heydays of Joe Montana and Steve Young. Rabid fans are sure to be in force and, if you make nice with the bartender, you might be able to score some of the chili and hotdogs they make in the pool room for big games.
218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., 454-8900
Perhaps there's a member of your party not eager for the full sports bar experience. No fear - Marinitas will appease them with its upscale atmosphere, delicious menu and varied drink list to counteract the big screens and screaming.
San Rafael
BJ's
Northgate Mall, 755-6250
If seeing Alex Smith and Vernon Davis as close to lifesize as possible is your wish, BJ's will command it. Boasting the biggest TVs in Marin County, BJ's will keep you in signature beers and avocado poppers all through the NFC Championship game
1533 4th Street, 456-1011
Better known as a hotspot during World Cups, the Mayflower hasn't scorned American football. Rowdy drinkers, battered fish and heavy ales will be on-hand starting at kick-off at 3:30 p.m.
724 B St, 453-4318
For what it's worth, The Flatiron is where I chose to watch the San Francisco Giants win the World Series. The food is named after famous sports figures, the televisions are plentiful and the patrons who gather there are always real fans ready for action.
Corte Madera
55 Tamal Vista Boulevard, 924-3366
might be the choice of many (and a classic), but Brick & Bottle is my secret pick. As someone employed very close to this restaurant, Brick & Bottle has afforded me the chance to dash in on my lunchbreak, order a soda and watch the 49ers' fourth quarter several times this season. The cusine is exquisite (try the mac and cheese) and the microbrews impeccable. There aren't any giant screens, but you're also pretty much guaranteed an open bar stool right next to the TV.
Mill Valley
380 Miller Avenue, 388-6036
All Mill Valley residents know the 'Deuce is the local choice for gameday viewing. Pay homage by keeping this last bastion of booze in the green during this Sunday's epic showdown.
Where are you going to watch the game? Will the 49ers win?
