By Amanda-Kathryn (aka RamblesofRed)
It’s September whether we like it or not. I don’t know about you all, but the summer went way too fast for me and I’m not ready to head back to school. In order to make the upcoming semester more tolerable, I’ve found that seeking outlets on the weekend with my friends is essential, and a great way to get my mind off when my next paper is due. Now I have my choice, will it be dancing, hiking, or…should I just head to the sports bar around the corner to watch some football? Well, I’m guilty, NFL preseason got me hooked (no I will never tell my team colors)! Now my next question, with all the options New Jersey has to offer, what sports bar not only has ample big screens, but a food menu which goes beyond the rest? The answer: Sidelines Bar and Grill in Fairfield, NJ.
Coming from Newark, traffic was not that horrible and at most a 30 minute car ride without it. Sorry bus travelers, you won’t be finding a reliable commute here. You can opt for an Uber or Lyft, and if you are planning on drinking with your friends, I highly recommend it. Just don’t get lost! If you have never been to Sidelines before, it can be a tad difficult to spot, in fact, you might do what I did and end up on the wrong side of the building…whoops. Once you get there, you’ll notice it is right on the other side of a corporate building, but very easy to spot. You’ll instantly see the big screens through its many windows, and the Sidelines entrance will be there to greet you with two open doors. Once you enter, take a seat at the pool table to your right, or just grab a seat at the bar. There’s ample room, and more than enough big screens to amp you all up for football this season. Now let’s get to the important stuff: food and drinks!
To start, I decided to try the house favorite Sidelines Punch. If you are looking for something refreshing and flavorful with a bit of kick, this drink is for you! I will never reveal house secrets on what goes into this delicious blend, but if you are looking to keep the summer alive this fall season, this should be a staple for any food order you make. Careful though… this drink may seem sweet and innocent, but it will sneak up on you! Get yourself a good starter appetizer and you’ll be INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT just fine. Lucky for me, I had two before taking on my main course! Let’s take a look:
Sidelines Bar and Grill’s menu is a combination of fresh-toorder food selections perfect for those looking for a quick bite, or even the ravenous up all night college student. Appetizers range from Pierogies, Quesadillas, and much more. My favorite? The Mozzarella Balls. Hey mozzarella sticks fans, sometimes you just need a change, right? This will be your new favorite, and cheese fans you will be gushing at how perfectly this garlic bread crumb encrusted Mozzarella melts in your mouth. I wish I could have ordered 3 more…future goals. If you are bacon fan looking to expand your taste buds, try the Stadium Chips! A spin on potato skins, this Sidelines dish combines potato chips, homemade roasted jalapeño and cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crumbled bacon, and truffle oil baked to perfection before reaching your plate. The flavors were robust, each bringing something to the table. It was the ideal blend of crunchy goodness, and a small but satisfying treat that will keep you coming back for more. If you’re a burger fan, they have six 8oz selections to choose from, but you’d be missing out if you didn’t try the Sidelines Crowd Pleaser. It combines cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle chips topped with Sideline’s secret sauce (Yum!) Hey veggies, I didn’t forget about you. If a burger isn’t your speed you can always order one of Sidelines five salad selections, or just create your own! If you’re a fish fan try the shrimp wrap or shrimp tacos. You can keep it healthy or just take away one of their sandwiches or specialty fries. The list goes on and on, but believe me, each item will keep your stomach happy the whole night through.
Now I had to save the best for last …And that was the Sidelines Brisket Sandwich. Oh my gosh! Can I say I’ve died and gone to heaven? This sandwich was so good, I can’t even put it into words…but for the sake of this article I’m going to have to try. Now I have tried many bar staples and sandwiches in my travels, but this was just too good. The brisket was cooked impeccably in its seasonal sauce, and the soft bun and cheese was not overbearing making it seem like more than just a bar selection…but something you would expect from a 4 star restaurant. I was in awe, and I know at first bite, you will be too! So my fellow bar flies,
I implore you! Try the Sidelines Brisket Sandwich today, tomorrow, whenever you can. This will be the fall food item of the season and you don’t want to miss it.
A five year business, Sidelines Bar and Grill brings an eclectic fresh menu, delicious drinks, and customer service well beyond the typical sports bar you’ve come to expect. Make it a priority to try one of their Brisket Sandwiches and come down for all your sports viewing needs this fall season. Don’t forget to follow the Sidelines website, Instagram, and Facebook to stay up-to-date on all upcoming events this season. Thank you for the awesome time, Sidelines staff! Until then, cheers and happy eating to you all!