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After what seems like an eternity without sports, the Houston Astros’s weird half-year season is set to kick off on Friday, July 24. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, things are going to look a lot different than the typical baseball season. There won’t be any street festivals near Minute Maid Park, the stands will be filled with cardboard cutouts instead of rowdy fans, and everyone will be cheering on the home team from home.
Even though it isn’t possible to catch Opening Day at your favorite sports bar, many of the city’s top bars and restaurants are making it easy to celebrate the return of baseball at home. From dollar hot dogs to smoky brisket, here’s where to find the best eats for watching the game.
The Original Ninfa’s
Ninfa’s Astros Margarita, a blend of carrot juice, citrus and tequila with a jicama star garnish, will be available for $10 at both the Navigation and Uptown locations during game days. Ninfa’s is also offering their happy hour menu, including $4 beers, during games. Ninfa’s does pickup and delivery through Doordash, Favor and its own website.
Monkey’s Tail
For folks who are seriously craving Dollar Dog Night Tuesdays at Minute Maid Park, Monkey’s Tail has you covered. The Northside bar will be serving up dollar hot dogs with basic condiments on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during games. For a little extra, diners can add chili, queso, jalapeños or cheddar jack cheese. Order online via Toast or by calling the bar at 713-842-7188.
Loch Bar
Loch Bar’s signature burger will be served up as a game-day special in honor of third baseman Alex Bregman. The Bregman Burger Special, available while games are in action, will include the dry-aged angus burger topped with white cheddar and Churchill sauce, plus fries, for $10. Order it for takeout by calling 832-430-6601.
Present Company
The Westheimer Avenue hotspot will offer a cocktail called the Take It Back Tini on special during game days for $8, as well as Karbach Crawford Bach for $4. Both drinks are available to-go.
Pizzitola’s BBQ
Pizzitola’s wants to encourage fans to watch the Astros form their own “home” plate, so they’re offering an impressive Opening Day curbside special including smoked brisket queso and chips, a slab or pork spare ribs, six chicken tacos, a six-pack of Crawford Back, and a box of Cracker Jacks. Order the pack, priced at $65, by calling the restaurant at 713-227-2283.
