Blue Smoke
116 E. 27th St. (Lexington & Park Aves.)
Murray Hill 212.447.7733
If you opt to forgo the schlep to Queens, sit out the game at Blue Smoke. The bartender is a huge Mets fan and you can watch the “Amazins” with beer in hand and barbecued pork in mouth. The wonders of this Murray Hill jazz and ‘cue spot have not gone unnoticed by the Mets’ powers that be—the new Citi Field will have a Blue Smoke on premises.
Donovan’s Pub 57-24 Roosevelt Ave. (@ 58th St.)
Woodside 718.429.9339
This Woodside spot made its debut only two years after Shea Stadium did, and it has been a solid part of Mets Country ever since. Hop off the 7 train and enjoy authentic Irish fare with authentic Irish flare (brogues and beer). Since they serve some of the best burgers in the boroughs and all for a good price, you might miss the game completely if you start your Flushing trip here.
PJ Leahy’s 50-02 Vernon Blvd. (@ 50th Ave.)
Long Island City 718.472.5131
No Sunday at the ballgame is complete without stopping here. You can’t beat a flat-screen TV at every table, 25-cent wings, and cheap pints, and you certainly can’t help but belt out Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” when it plays on the jukebox. Literally only five steps from the Vernon-Jackson 7 train stop, PJ’s is a must-visit.
I Heart New York, Don’t Care Which Team
Some of us are just ballgame fans and don’t discriminate. For a spot that welcomes navy, white, blue, and orange alike, try Blondie’s, at either their W. 79th Street or 2nd Avenue location. With every bit of the place covered in televisions showing sporting events, this place is not one for a quiet dinner conversation. Whether you hop on the 7 train out to Queens or catch the B or the D to the Bronx, you won’t strike out here.
