Formula One season is in full swing. This year’s championship is set to attract a larger-than-ever U.S. audience, so even if you haven’t yet caught the bug, it’s the perfect time to get in on the action.
Start times vary from track to track, and with coverage expanding to include qualifying laps leading up to Sunday races, it can be tricky deciding where to go.
We pulled together a list of Philly bars and pubs that show F1 races on TV.
Take note: While many bars are devoting screens to March Madness right now, these venues say they’ll accommodate racing requests. Scroll down to find the best places for a casual watch, or where to go if you want to dive into details with other gearheads.
Human Robot
1710 N. 5th St., Kensington
Operated by F1 enthusiasts and open early enough for 9 a.m. starts, this local brewery projects all the racing action, with sound, in its tasting room. The signature Czech 10° beer goes for $5 during races, and “munchies” from the in-house Poe’s Sandwich Joint pair dangerously well. Don’t forget to pick up a pilsner-themed Pirelli t-shirt. (Note: no under-21s allowed in after 2 p.m.).
Founding Fathers
1612 South St., South Street West
Spacious layout, accommodating staff, and loyal regulars grant a familial warmth to this no-frills sport, which is outfitted with multiple well-placed screens. Ideal option for evening races.
Sto’s Bar
236 Market St., Old City
With 20 screens across two floors, this tavern will happily put on “any sport you ask for”, according to Sto himself. And if that’s not enough to keep you engaged, there’s cornhole, classic arcade games, as well as Nintendo64, Xbox, and a replacement Playstation after the last one was stolen. Bonus: $5 citywides all day, every day.
Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse
1913 Sansom St., Rittenhouse
If you like your sports bars loud and your wings classic, Cav’s Center City location might be your place. The roar of the engines is easily drowned out by the mostly college-aged crowd.
New Deck Tavern
3408 Sansom St., University City
This longstanding UCity hotspot with an Irish veneer offers a (slightly) calmer atmosphere, as well as rotating drafts and generous servings of traditional pub grub.
New Wave Cafe
784 S. 3rd St., Queen Village
Open early enough for 10 a.m. starts, this neighborhood favorite on the corner of 3rd and Catherine serves up warm vibes, 21 taps, and an extensive brunch menu available till 3 p.m.
