Sports bars the new winner in hospitality

Themed F&B, live screenings rake in revenues

- VAISHALI DAR

THE BEER IS flowing, an intense match has the TV screen on fire, and the crowds are roaring. This is a typical scene at sports bars, which are emerging as one of hospitality’s biggest winners, attracting sports enthusiasts in hundreds.

Mimicking the energy of a stadium with live screenings, plus an array of themed food and beverages, bars are now strongly positioning themselves as sport-focused.

At global sports entertainment brand Dave & Buster’s, major cricket and football fixtures have delivered crowds well beyond typical trading days.

The brand’s Mumbai and Bengaluru locations have attracted over 500 visitors at each outlet during key matches like the 2026 IPL final and UEFA Champions League finals in May this year, despite seating capacities of 200-300. “Whether it’s FIFA, Wimbledon or other marquee events, live sports screenings have proven to be a strong draw at our existing locations in Bengaluru and Mumbai, resulting in full houses,” said Shreya Malpani, MD, Malpani Group, which has brought Dave & Buster’s to India.

The company recently opened its third outlet in Delhi’s Pacific Mall.