The Green Bay Guide: The perfect bar to watch a Packers game

This unassuming spot recently won not one, but two prestigious titles for our Green Bay Guide: Best Sports Bar and Best Dive Bar.

Green Bay is known for its deep football roots, a proud working-class spirit, and a community that knows how to unwind after a long day. One local gem has captured the hearts of our cheese hat-wearing, Packers cheering residents — Simonet’s Bar. This unassuming spot recently won not one, but two prestigious titles in a local reader’s poll: Best Sports Bar and Best Dive Bar. How did this neighborhood joint manage to conquer both categories? Let’s dive in and uncover the magic behind Simonet’s Bar.

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A brief history of Simonet’s

Simonet’s Bar, located at 925 Shawano Avenue, has been a Green Bay staple for over three generations. This family-owned establishment started as a humble watering hole and has since evolved into a beloved community hub. Despite changes over the years, Simonet’s has remained true to its roots, offering a place where locals can gather, catch a game, and enjoy a cold beer in a no-frills environment.

Founded by the Simonet family in the early 1950s, the bar has weathered the test of time, adapting to the changing landscape of Green Bay while retaining its old-school charm. Today, it’s managed by the third generation of Simonets, who have expertly balanced honoring tradition with catering to a modern clientele.

The perfect sports bar (Go Pack Go!)

One of the key reasons Simonet’s Bar took the top spot as Green Bay’s Best Sports Bar is its dedication to creating the perfect game-day experience. Whether you’re a die-hard Packers fan or just enjoy watching a game with friends, Simonet’s delivers in spades.

Walk into Simonet’s on game day, and you’re greeted by a sea of green and gold, enthusiastic fans, and the buzz of the game. The bar is outfitted with multiple large-screen TVs strategically placed so that no matter where you’re sitting, you’ve got a prime view of the action. The sound system is perfectly calibrated, ensuring you catch every play, every touchdown, and every roar from the crowd.

What truly sets Simonet’s apart as a sports bar is the sense of community it fosters. This isn’t the kind of place where you watch the game alone. On game days, the energy at Simonet’s is electric, with fans and new friends cheering, high-fiving, and sharing in the collective joy (or occasional heartbreak) of the game’s outcome.

Fueling up for the game

Of course, no sports bar worth its salt is complete without a menu that complements the game-watching experience. Simonet’s excels here, offering a range of classic bar fare that hits the spot. Their wings are legendary — crispy on the outside, meaty on the inside, and available in a variety of sauces that cater to every taste. Whether you’re into the spicy kick of Buffalo or the sweet heat of honey sriracha, Simonet’s has you covered.

But wings are just the beginning. Simonet’s also offers a lineup of burgers that are as hearty as they are delicious. The “Simonet Special” is a fan favorite — a double cheeseburger loaded with all the fixings and served with a side of golden fries. Pair it with one of their many local craft beers on tap, and you’ve got a meal that’s as satisfying as a Packers’ victory.

And let’s not forget the drinks. Simonet’s Bar knows how to keep the drinks flowing, with an impressive selection of beers, both bottled and on tap. From local brews to national favorites, there’s something for everyone. If beer isn’t your thing, their bartenders are skilled at whipping up classic cocktails with just the right amount of flair.

Dive into Simonets

Winning the title of Best Dive Bar might seem at odds with being the Best Sports Bar, but Simonet’s has mastered the art of being both. Dive bars hold a special place in the hearts of many, offering a no-nonsense atmosphere, affordable drinks, and a sense of authenticity.

The dive bar appeal of Simonet’s lies in its unpretentious vibe. This is the kind of place where the bartenders greet you by name, your usual drink is already being poured as you walk in, and the conversations flow as easily as the beer. The décor is simple, with comfy bar stools, neon signs, and a variety if pinball machines, a Golden Tee and a pool table.

Simonet’s prides itself on offering some of the most affordable drinks in town. Whether you’re in the mood for a local brew (most of their taps are local!) or a whiskey old fashioned, you won’t have to empty your wallet to enjoy a night out. The bar’s daily specials are particularly popular, drawing in a crowd of regulars who appreciate good company and cheap drinks.

The laid-back atmosphere at Simonet’s is another key factor in its dive bar charm. There’s no dress code here — come as you are, whether that’s in your work boots, jeans, or Packers jersey. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or to kick back with friends on the weekend.

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The recent reader’s poll survey naming Simonet’s the Best Sports Bar and Best Dive Bar in Green Bay is a declaration of the bar’s unique ability to bridge the gap between these two worlds. It’s a place where the excitement of a sports bar meets the laid-back charm of a dive bar — a place where the past meets the present, and where everyone is welcome.

As Simonet’s Bar continues to thrive, one thing is certain: this Green Bay institution will remain a beloved part of the community for years to come.

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