DRINKING (and) Games Anyone?

By Marina Hernández | Photos by Monique Kuhlman

This category really ignites the soul.

A perfect meld of (mostly friendly) competition and specialty libations of all sorts.

49rs Tavern

5660 Pacific Coast Hwy, 90814

@the49erstavernlbc

Pool | Hudson Mini Shuffleboard

It’s a dive-ish bar with friendly staff, outstanding burgers, cold beer and a dedicated room of games. Choose some of your favorite tunes from a touchscreen jukebox and linger over either of their two pool tables or Hudson mini-shuffleboard to bring out your competitive side. It’s a perfectly relaxed way to enjoy a day out of the house especially during football season when the games are televised on their many screens. Burgers (and smash burgers) are freshly prepared daily and come with a bag of kettle chips.

Birdies n Brews

90 E. 4th St, 90802 | @birdiesnbrews

Golf Simulation

The vibe at Birdies N Brews is casual and relaxed, like when you’re amongst your closest people and are happy to let your hair down. A place where you are transported into a tidy version of your great grandpappy's man cave when hearing bursts of cheers and pint glasses clinking. Patrons here fall into two categories: 1) golfers – here for friendly competition without all the walking and inconvenient tee times or 2) non-golfers (like me) – here to be cheered on or playfully made fun of when you inevitably whiff a shot. I highly recommend this experience for any couple or group.

Ficklewood

Ciderworks

720 E. Broadway, 90802

@ficklewoodcider

Pinball | Board Games

Calling all pinheads (and cider buffs while we’re at it). Along with an overall jovial vibe and open layout of bar tops and community tables, there is a fun selection of seven pinball machines waiting to be played at Ficklewood. Experience a 9-foot-high “long pour” from one of Ficklewood’s exclusive ciders then pop your glass into the convenient cupholder and play your quarters away. Machines range from $0.50-$1.00 per play with a current selection including TMNT, Godzilla, Baywatch and Star Wars Episode 1. They rotate every few months so stop by frequently to check out the latest. Follow @ficklewoodcider to find out about upcoming pinball tournaments.