Nearly a third of sports bars across the U.S. could close by the end of the year as a result of the pandemic. Last year, there were approximately 95,000 total sports bars, a number that could drop to 66,000.
Between forced closures and customer hesitancy to dine out during a global pandemic, sports bars — and restaurants in general — are hurting. Some estimates suggest the bar and grill sector, worth $29 billion, could have its revenue drop by 50% in 2020.
Across the country, 15% of restaurants and bars — more than 100,000 — have closed permanently. All told, the National Restaurant Association is expecting a loss of $240 billion in sales.
U.S. Sports Bar Chains By 2019 Sales:
Buffalo Wild Wings — $3.6 billion
Hooters — $859 million
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s — $171 million
![Florida head coach Jon Sumrall speaks after spring practice at Sanders Practice Fields in Gainesville, FL on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. [Alan Youngblood/Gainesville Sun]](https://frontofficesports.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/USATSI_28676620_168416386_lowres-e1779828437389.jpg?quality=80&w=300)
