As official U.S. host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Houston and Dallas are already preparing to welcome millions of global soccer fans. But you don’t have to wait for the tournament to find elite game-day atmospheres. Yelp just dropped a new ranking of the Top 100 Sports Bars in America—and six spots across the Lone Star State made the cut.
All were ranked on a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews.
In Houston, the Phoenix on Westheimer (formerly known as Firkin and Phoenix) was the highest ranked Texas sports bar at no. 38. The Montrose pub, which originally opened in 2006, is decked out with more than 20 TVs and two massive projectors to catch just about every sport imaginable—from football, basketball, and hockey to rugby, cricket, and soccer. Beyond the screens, the neighborhood staple features old-school arcade games, billiards, a robust beer list, and a menu stacked with classic bar bites.
In Austin, Kelly’s Irish Pub landed at No. 48 and B.D. Riley’s Irish Pub at Mueller at No. 57. The two bars aren’t related, but both offer Irish food and drink, including Guinness. Coincidentally, both also offer indoor and outdoor seating and dog-friendly patios.
In the Woodlands, Blue Lion Pub claimed the No. 65 ranking. The European-inspired bar opened its doors in the Grogan’s Mill shopping center in 2020 before closing that location in 2023. Following a brief hiatus, the local spot made a major comeback by relocating with a rebrand as a “brunchery and pub” two years later at 8000 Mcbeth Way.
In Dallas, Desta Ethiopian Restaurant ranked at No. 77. The restaurant is famous for dishing out authentic Ethiopian breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Customers can also count on staff to broadcast the games on its large dining room television.
Lastly, in San Antonio, The Cottage Irish Pub ranked at no. 90. The sports bar touts itself as the largest seller of Guinness in the Alamo City. Fans can catch the games on various TVs and a big screen. There are also two patios and a game room.