Lunch Break: A Sports Bar Bite

Sampling dishes and diners in and around Miami County

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of bar food. The tasty greasiness of a sub, pizza, or fries is sometimes all you need to hit the spot, even if you think you’re searching for healthier. Leafy greens have their appeal, but a hot plate of Onion Rings could change my mind in an instant. Piqua’s Referees Sports Bar is a quaint little downtown dive, perfect for satisfying your savory needs. Brick walls and quaint outdoor summer night seating surround the restaurant. But the best time to grab a bite for a Lunchbreak affair might be the early afternoon. Around two, the local bar isn’t empty, but it definitely gives the vibe that it’s more of a nighttime joint. This atmosphere, however, is perfect for either a bite on the go or a peaceful, chilled lunch with a book in one hand and, perhaps, even a beer in the other. 

I didn’t personally opt for a brewski, but after I ordered my usual water, I opened the food menu and was met with a myriad of options. Some menu choices took a unique Tex-Mex route, with Potato chip nachos slathered in tasty sauces and topped with spicy jalapenos or even a taco salad and quesadilla. These matched the theme of the Corona bottle salt and pepper shakers and Tapatia hot sauces at each booth and tabletop. Other menu items took an artistic attempt at a classic bar food favorite, like the Buckeye Burger. No, the burger didn't include chocolate and peanut butter but instead introduced the idea of using a quesadilla instead of a bun, with the patty tucked between each cheesy layer. Although these looked tempting, I chose the Pizza Sub, a bar food classic.

This delicious number included fresh Italian bread with juicy and flavorful tomato sauce, stretchy mozzarella, and savory pepperoni, all melted in between. As a side, I kept the original wavy potato chips that reminded me of summer camping trips and picnics with each crunchy and salty bite. For me, this was the perfect tasty lunch for an indulgent afternoon. I enjoyed the company of my friends, one ordering the drool-worthy Nachos, the other a perfect mini one-person pizza and onion rings. Both looked equally delicious, especially the cheese pull action from the pizza. The bar’s early afternoon atmosphere was fit for lunchtime conversation. The music wasn't too loud, but just enough for someone to say, “Oh, I love this song.” and for another to recommend whatever they wanted to hear next on the touch tunes Jukebox. Referees encapsulate the appeal of sports bar food and personality, as well as a menu with a never-ending list of exciting Items that I can see myself returning for again and again. I can’t wait to try each fun spin on restaurant classics. Not only does the hastiness and the vibe of the restaurant make it an enjoyable place to eat, but its walkability and proximity to Piqua’s downtown shopping make it all the more enjoyable.

Referees Sports Bar

311 N. Main St., Piqua

Hours:

Monday-Thursday

11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday – Saturday

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Sunday

11:00 – 9:00 p.m.