I grew up in the Midwest, where Sunday, Mondays, (and now even Thursdays) are centered around watching all the NFL games you can handle while enjoying great beers and loads of delicious food all in the name of celebrating touchdowns and team pride. Although I miss the cheese curds, I have to say, the food game here in New York has raised the bar of what I used to consider great game bites.

One benefit of working at SALIDO is we have some of the most fantastic customers across full service and quick service restaurants. For the “wings and beer lover” kinda guy I am, I have to show love to the sports bars that utilize our hospitality software and products.

For your next football outing, here are the top two places to go in the New York City area.

New York: Professor Thom’s.

Located on 2nd Avenue between 13th and 14th Streets this New England Patriots bustling sports bar gives little hint from the curb that it’s all Boylston Street inside. (It’s right next to Finnerty’s, a bar that broadcasts its allegiance to San Francisco.) Every night is Harpoon Brewery night. You can see tons of Boston memorabilia, including Tom Brady’s college jersey and a pair of Fenway seats but what’s key here is: Lobster Mondays. 

They also have killer wings, burgers and a great beer selection. Definitely a college age crowd with special nights like “Tinder Tuesdays” but overall welcoming and fun. They also have a cozy upper room with a fireplace that can be reserved for special events.

New Jersey: The Ainsworth.

The beauty of the recently opened Ainsworth in Newark (810 Broad Street) is that it has an upscale vibe while also featuring a plethora of TVs, so there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Situated in the Hotel Indigo, The Ainsworth includes a rooftop terrace and main floor, which is built into an original bank building (the old vault door and original fixtures decorate the interior amongst beautiful chandeliers) with large windows keeping it a bright atmosphere.

One item they are known for and is a must try is the Mac & Cheese Burger. With a panko-crusted mac n' cheese patty, beef patty, mac & cheese, all on a sesame seed bun it won’t matter how your team is doing because your stomach will be winning with this choice.

Although no NFL teams play at the nearby Prudential Center, home of the New Jersey Devils, it’s still the perfect venue to catch all the games whichever day you choose to visit.