Why CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill offers an exceptional and inviting environment ideal for meeting up with friends and enjoying memorable meals together. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and wide-ranging menu featuring Mexican and American favorites, the venue caters to varied tastes with dishes like nachos, tacos, hot wings, prime rib, steak and eggs, and unique specialties such as Chicago-style Italian beefs and rib eye dip. It’s not only the food that draws people in—CJ’s is a lively sports bar boasting 16 HD LCD televisions strategically placed for optimal viewing, making it a hotspot to catch Iowa Hawkeyes football or Chicago Cubs games amid an enthusiastic crowd. The friendly and attentive staff enhance the experience with quick, efficient service complemented by a full bar offering cold beers and notable margaritas. Located within a casino and hotel complex, CJ’s adds convenience and an elevated ambiance compared to typical sports bars. Additional entertainment like pool tables, ticket machines, and a jukebox further enrich visitors’ downtime. Whether planning casual lunch, dinner, or simply a relaxed hangout to watch sports, CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill provides a dynamic setting that perfectly blends great food, drinks, and community spirit, making it a favorite local destination.

Here's what people think of CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill

As of recent, CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill holds a 4.4-star rating based on 411 reviews.

User reviews of CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the quality of food, excellent service, and engaging atmosphere. Many patrons praise menu items such as the steak and eggs breakfast, prime rib, cashew chicken, gyros, and unique dishes like clam chowder and rib eye dip, often noting generous portions and superb taste. Reviewers frequently commend the friendly, attentive, and efficient service from bartenders and waitstaff, enhancing their overall enjoyment. The cold beers, second-to-none margaritas, and warm, welcoming environment connected with the casino and hotel are also valued aspects. On the entertainment side, the presence of multiple televisions broadcasting sports, the availability of pool tables, and other fun features contribute to a lively experience. Some less positive feedback relates to isolated perceptions of bar staff friendliness or service, but these are rare and not reflective of the broader consensus. Overall, customer reviews establish CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill as a reliable, comfortable venue offering great cuisine, vibrant sporting events viewing, and a friendly setting. The consistent positive reception from both first-time and returning guests confirms its status as a top choice for locals and visitors alike seeking a dynamic sports bar and grill experience.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Tyler Gockley

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Amazing food and great patio area to hang out in both the front and back! I come in for karaoke on weekends too for some extra fun. And I can always count on ruby to make me a great drink and spoil my dog with a treat 🤙🏻

Debbie Lee

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I enjoyed it. Kinda hard to find using maps. It's a "I love this bar" kinda feel. Friendly. Nice entertainment " i know the 'a' member of the Band. I didn't order food but the food looked yummy.

George Gonzalez

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Super fun karaoke place. Huge space with a big stage and really great chef in the kitchen and bar staff too. Best kept karaoke secret in SE Portland.

Jenni Foglesong

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This is a great bar, if you enjoy sweet bar tenders like Jamie and Carly. Amazingly good food by Erick, playing pool, darts, video poker, watching sports, or singing Karaoke this is the bar for you. Everyone is super friendly and a lot of fun.

Jessica j

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

If you want to go to a bar that is so comfortable, clean, good prices, good food, has a pool table & slot machines & an AWESOME bartender go to CJ's Sports Bar & Grill. John was our bartender and he truly made our night! We had a friend from out of town with us and my mom and brother and I had such a great experience at CJ's!! John was so nice and attentive!! He got us everything we needed as soon as we needed it, super fast and with a smile 😁 they have a nice setup outside with tables and chairs and an overhang that covers you if it's raining. The bathrooms were clean and the decor in the bar and bathrooms were so cute!! We will definitely be going back again and recommending to all of our friends and family. Thx John for being an awesome person & making us feel so welcome! I hope your boss realizes what a great employee they have and gives u a bonus or raise because you deserve it!!♥️🥳

How to reach CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill

Why rally at CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill with your friends? Because it perfectly combines an energetic social atmosphere with exceptional food and attentive service, creating an ideal venue to reconnect, celebrate, or unwind together. Whether you’re gathering after work, gearing up for a big game, or simply craving a night out with friends, CJ’s stands out as a comfortable, lively spot where everyone can enjoy themselves. Its welcoming ambiance, praised for being both friendly and vibrant, encourages camaraderie and fun. The restaurant is known for its great variety of delicious dishes—from prime rib to unique starters like artichoke and spinach dip—and a wide selection of cold beverages to complement your meal. The connection to a hotel and casino adds an extra layer of entertainment options nearby, enhancing convenience for longer group outings or visitors coming from out of town. Overall, CJ’s combines quality, comfort, and an unbeatable social vibe that makes it a go-to destination for meetups with friends and family.

What activities are available at CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill and why are they ideal for groups? CJ’s isn’t just about good food; it’s a dynamic space packed with activities that enhance the group experience. Patrons can enjoy watching multiple sports games across numerous TVs, creating a stadium-like atmosphere perfect for cheering on your favorite teams together. The bar area is spacious and lively, encouraging friendly debates and socializing over drinks. Those interested in more interactive entertainment will appreciate the pool tables, which serve as a fun, engaging way to keep the group entertained between rounds of food and drinks. The attentive and friendly service adds to the overall experience, ensuring that group needs are met promptly, from refilling drinks to accommodating special requests. This blend of quality entertainment, communal spirit, and comfortable seating areas makes CJ’s ideal for group meetups, whether it’s a casual catch-up or a special celebration.

Why is CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill perfect for hosting a group meetup? First, the spacious layout and variety of seating options—from bar stools to booths—cater to groups of different sizes, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable throughout the visit. The menu offers a wide range of crowd-pleasers, including standout dishes like the artichoke and spinach dip, cashew chicken, and prime rib, which have earned consistent praise and are sure to satisfy diverse tastes. The large portions and reasonable prices add great value, especially for groups looking to enjoy a full meal without breaking the budget. Another advantage is the warm, welcoming staff who excel at making guests feel at home, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable environment perfect for extended hangouts. Additionally, the location’s integration with the nearby hotel and casino means that guests can easily extend their socializing beyond the bar and grill, making CJ’s not just a spot for a meal but a central hub for a fun night out.

What makes the food and drink selection at CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill stand out for group dining? The culinary offerings strike a perfect balance between hearty comfort food and gourmet touches that impress even the most discerning palates. Popular dishes like the rib eye dip and country fried steak are celebrated for their flavor and generous portions, ideal for sharing among friends. Breakfast fans also rave about the steak and eggs, underscoring the versatility of CJ’s all-day menu. The bar boasts a well-curated selection of beer, wines, and cocktails, including highly praised cold beer taps that add to the refreshing experience. The variety ensures that every guest can find something they love—whether a robust ale to accompany game day or a sweet waffle sundae to cap off the meal. This diverse menu and drink lineup support various preferences in a group, making it easy to satisfy everyone and elevate the communal dining experience.

How does the atmosphere at CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill foster an enjoyable group experience? The venue’s vibe is a blend of energetic and cozy, balancing the buzz of a sports bar with the comfort of a neighborhood grill. It’s spacious enough to accommodate lively conversations and celebrations yet cozy enough to feel intimate and personal. The presence of sports broadcasts on multiple screens caters to fans eager to watch games together, while the background music and friendly chatter help maintain an inviting ambiance. Staff members are consistently noted for their friendliness and prompt service, which helps groups feel taken care of and welcome. The connection to adjacent entertainment options, like the casino and hotel, further enriches the atmosphere, making CJ’s a pivotal part of a night filled with multiple activities. All these elements combine to create an environment that’s welcoming, engaging, and perfect for social gatherings.

What additional features at CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill enhance group meetups? Beyond food, drinks, and entertainment, CJ’s offers a clean, well-maintained space that reflects a commitment to guest comfort and hygiene—important for any social setting. The presence of efficiently managed pool tables adds an interactive element for groups to bond over some friendly competition. The service team’s efficiency means that even larger groups experience smooth, timely visits without frustrating delays, ensuring the focus stays on fun and connection. The bar hosts special events and promotions, such as prime rib specials from Thursday through Sunday, which add excitement and reason to plan repeat visits with friends or family. Finally, the location itself—often praised for accessibility and proximity to other local venues—makes it easy for groups to commute and coordinate plans, helping turn a regular meetup into a seamless social occasion.

Why do CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill reviews highlight its suitability for groups and community? Multiple reviews emphasize the welcoming, friendly nature of CJ’s staff and patrons, portraying it as a neighborhood staple where people come not only for food but for camaraderie. Testimonials describe the staff as attentive and warm, which helps create an inclusive environment where groups feel comfortable and valued. The consistency in food quality, with many dishes repeatedly praised, along with reasonable pricing, ensures that groups return for both the taste and the value. Patrons also appreciate the clean and inviting space, aspects that enhance any group gathering. The combination of these factors builds CJ’s reputation as a reliable and enjoyable spot for social interaction, whether it's a weekly get-together or a special celebration, fostering a true sense of community.

In what ways can CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill accommodate different types of group events? The flexibility of CJ’s setup allows it to host a variety of occasions, from casual hangouts and sports-watching parties to family dinners and small celebrations. For sports fans, the multiple big-screen TVs and game-day atmosphere provide an exciting backdrop for watching favorite teams together. For families and mixed-age groups, the broad menu offers options that appeal to younger guests and adults alike, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable. The ample seating arrangements can be customized to fit intimate or larger groups, and the staff’s attentive approach means they can handle specific needs or special requests with ease. Additionally, the proximity to the hotel and casino gives the possibility of coordinating larger events with broader entertainment plans, making CJ’s an excellent foundation for diverse social gatherings.

How does CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill compare as a venue for friendly competition and social games? The presence of pool tables is a notable draw for groups interested in friendly rivalry and interactive entertainment beyond eating and drinking. This feature supports a relaxed, fun atmosphere where guests can engage in casual competition, fostering bonding and lively conversation. Unlike some bars where noise and crowds can be overwhelming, CJ’s manages to maintain a balance, providing a space conducive both to socializing and enjoying games. The pool tables help make visits interactive and memorable, providing a shared activity that helps groups connect naturally. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for some casual fun, CJ’s caters well to those seeking a bit of playfulness alongside good food and drinks.

What makes the service at CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill a key factor for group gatherings? Across many reviews, the service at CJ’s stands out for being friendly, efficient, and attentive without being intrusive—an ideal combination for groups. Bartenders and servers maintain a balance of professionalism and warmth, making guests feel like valued friends. This positive interaction helps sets the tone for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, especially important for large groups needing coordinated service. Quick drink refills, readiness with recommendations, and an eagerness to accommodate special needs contribute to a smooth outing. The reliable service alleviates common group stressors such as long waits or mixed-up orders, allowing the focus to remain on shared enjoyment and conversation.

How does the location of CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill contribute to its appeal for friends and family meetups? Situated conveniently and often linked with a casino and hotel, CJ’s benefits from a prime location that appeals to both locals and visitors. This means groups can easily combine dining with other activities like gaming or overnight stays, simplifying planning for multi-dimensional social events. Its accessible location encourages spontaneous visits or well-planned outings alike, offering an approachable destination for any group size. Nearby parking and visibility add to the convenience, making arrivals and departures hassle-free. The surrounding setting also injects extra excitement, as guests can extend their time together beyond the bar and grill room, turning a meal into a full night of entertainment.

In summary, CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill offers an unbeatable mix of quality food, engaging social activities, a warm and accommodating atmosphere, and a convenient location, making it a highly recommended choice for hosting meetups with friends and family. Its blend of delicious meals, cold drinks, interactive entertainment like pool, and attentive service create an environment where memories are easily made. Whether you are gathering for a casual lunch, watching a big game, or celebrating a special occasion, CJ’s provides everything needed for a lively, enjoyable group experience.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the CJ’s Sports Bar & Grill

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g37743-d3731098-Reviews-CJ_s_Sports_Bar_Grill-Cedar_Rapids_Iowa.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g34179-d5064760-Reviews-CJ_s_Sports_Bar_and_Grill-Delray_Beach_Florida.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g42596-d8152271-Reviews-CJ_s_Sports_Grill-Pinconning_Michigan.html