Pool, Darts Are Alternatives to TV

The 1950s-style exterior of Pete & Tony’s Downtown Sports Bar & Grill might make you think that you’re walking into Floyd’s barber shop. It’s a nostalgic-looking building accented by a canvas awning that shades the mirrored windows facing Harbor Boulevard in Fullerton.

Inside, a white checkerboard tile floor is complemented by checked tablecloths. But instead of checkers, the clientele plays pool and revels in a cable sports paradise.

The centerpiece of the main room is a long bar that can easily seat 23. Around that bar are nine monitors that provide superb sports viewing. Two satellite dishes bring in games from around the country, and two screens are tuned to a sports information channel that keeps you up to date on events not being broadcast.

Draft beer comes in 18 oz. schooners of labels including Bass ale, Guinness, Budweiser and Bud Light, Killians Red and Coors Light. Mixed drinks are also available.

And if you get hungry, the kitchen serves up appetizers, soup and salads, burgers and sandwiches until near closing time. (Families are welcome.)

A dart room is secluded in the rear, a good idea because it eliminates the potential hazards of being near a busy bar and improves player concentration for the serious aficionado.

The pool room is almost as big as the main bar area, housing three pool tables and assorted other attractions. Scattered oak fans twirl to cool you off after a rapid game of Foosball or hoops, and two TVs give players something to watch during lulls in the action.

Pete & Tony’s offers a variety of entertainment and promotions: Friday and Saturday nights, for instance, feature live rock music, for which there sometimes is a $2 cover charge. (This Saturday the Mike Reilly Band headlines at no charge.) Sundays feature classic and contemporary rock with no cover charge. All performances start at 9 p.m.

A karaoke contest is held on Wednesday nights, with the six-week winner taking home $150. Happy hour is from 3 to 7 p.m. daily, with reduced prices and free popcorn, plus on Monday nights during football season free hot dogs are served during the game.

Pete & Tony’s Downtown Sports Bar & Grill, 102 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. (714) 879-7570.