The Arena Sports Bar and Grill, Cranston

Sports fans in western Cranston look to the Arena for everything from the big game to their big event. And for good reason: the Arena calls all the right plays. From food to atmosphere to entertainment, this is one of our faves. The kitchen is open 7 days a week until 11 pm, so you will never be without a wing at that big moment in the game. And what comes out of that kitchen is classic sports bar fare done right. NFL fans, every game day they offer thirty five cent wings and a cheese pizza and a pitcher of beer for $13. You really can't go wrong there! 641 Atwood Ave. 369-7100, www.thearenari.com 
 

Snookers, Providence

This spot is all about the giant television, the retro-hip architecture and the crave-worthy bar food. Oh yeah...and pool if the game stinks! There are screens all over the joint, so missing a play isn't an issue. The kitchen has you covered, too. Pizzas, sandwiches and wraps tempt along with fun appetizers. The sweet chile calamari and the fried pickles are both very good. Don't forget the entrees either. The black and tan fish and chips were some of the best we've had outside of an Irish pub. http://www.snookersri.com

The Whiskey Republic, Providence

This is Patriots fan heaven. Imagine a couple dozen televisions, creative pub food and a waterfront view that makes those early season games pretty spectacular. The Pats always get top billing and the 120-inch projection screen. Also key here is the fact that the volume is up on the Pats game. We always fear missing timely information from the announcers but not at the Whiskey. Food-wise, every game day the menu is vast and features special $1 sliders and some of the best bar grub going. And god forbid the home team loses, there are around 50 whiskeys and bourbons for you to drown your sorrows. 515 South Water St. 588-5158,www.thewhiskeyrepublic.com
 

Doherty's Ale House, Warwick

The big boy of the Doherty's chain seems to have hit its stride. The food and service have caught up to the size of the newest location in the group. Located high on the hill just off I-95 on Jefferson Boulevard, this location features dark woods and beer taps as far as the eye can see. The food is more upscale than some of their other locales and the menu incorporates beer into more dishes. Check the Harpoon IPA pretzels or the Philly eggrolls for good game-time apps.

30 Jefferson Blvd. 401-270-9800,www.dohertysalehouse.com

Bobby G's, Wakefield

As the campus at URI begins to fill, so do the seats at Bobby G's, in Wakefield. Centrally located between campus and Narragansett, this is the perfect perch for people- and game-watching. We think you should plant yourself at the bar and enjoy an icy cold beer and some wings or nachos. The food is freshly prepared and always hits the right notes. We haven't tried one yet but the Tidal Wave is the drink of choice. 703 Kingston Rd. 789-1130