Sports and bar when used in that particular order can be two of the most polarizing words in the English language. Northfield’s newest restaurant, Fielder’s Choice, manages to balance the steep expectations that come with the sports bar branding and leave all parties happy. Like many restaurants in the rural college town, Fielder’s Choice resides in the shell of a former fast food restaurant. Though any charm that is lost with the drivethrough exterior is found when you enter the restaurant. The main room is filled with the staples of sports bars everywhere, wall to wall TVs, leather booths, flashing neon beer signs, but is void of any of the dark dank must that you might associate with a similar establishment.
This balance between light and dark is further reflected on the menu. The appetizers feature classics; wings, nachos, BLT sliders (where the bacon in replaced with pork belly). Though it also features lighter options, including well thought out salads and ahi tuna crisps. You could easily leave dinner with a full stomach ordering just off the starters menu. The entree list is far more standard, featuring variations on the burger and sandwich. The Oktoberfest burger, which features a beef patty topped with a thick strip of pork belly, sauerkraut, grilled onions and cheddar cheese, is tasty, but a daunting task to finish. The menu also includes a large pizza section, which seemed to be a favorite among the under12 partons.
The true star of Fielder’s Choice is its tap list. With 36 local microbrews on tap, it has enough options to please your snobbiest of friends. At $56 a pint, a craft beer will only cost you a dollar more than a Bud Light. In a town that has no lack of venues to grab a beer and watch the game, Fielder’s Choice is a refreshing option that is welcoming to sports fans of all ages and interest levels.
Recent Comments