From 30Hop to 2Dogs, watch the NCAA tourney at these spots in the Iowa City area

The madness is near.

The men's and women's NCAA basketball tournaments begin this week, highlighted by the University of Iowa women drawing a No. 1 seed for the first time since 1992. The Hawkeyes will host a first-round game on Saturday, March 23, at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

While the men's team didn't make it to the Big Dance, there are plenty of opportunities to watch how others fare in the annual tournament at bars and restaurants throughout the area.

The men's round of 64 starts Thursday while the women's first round will get rolling Friday.

Here are the Press-Citizen's seven best restaurants and bars to watch the madness, which begins Tuesday with the men's play-in games.

More: Clear Creek Amana's Kelsey Leathers is the Press-Citizen's Student of the Week

Jobsite

One Google reviewer said that Jobsite is one of the best bars in Iowa City. Located just outside of downtown, Jobsite is a charming dive bar with big TVs and $2.50 domestic beers Monday through Friday. You will find undergrads, intellectual hipsters, and people clocking off for the day at Jobsite, coming together over one thing: The Hawkeyes.

Location: 928 Maiden Ln., Iowa City, IA

Contact: 319-512-1872

Iowa Athletic Club

Iowa Athletic Club is a relaxed sports bar in the Iowa River Landing business district. IAC serves gameday classic food from tavern-style pizza and wings to smash burgers and promises that the beer is always cold. The spacious bar, with plenty of natural light and massive TVs, is a good spot for large groups of people or just a casual night out. It's also located on the ground floor of Xtream Arena, with exterior access.

Location: 200 E 9th St. Suite 205, Coralville

Contact: 319-499-1293 or iowaathletic.com

More: Who has the best burger in Iowa? Meet 10 finalists across the state vying for the title

Shakespeare’s Pub & Grill

Much like The Hawkeye’s, Shakespeare’s is an Iowa City classic. Located on the east side, Shakespeare’s has an extensive food menu and plenty of TVs to watch the game. If you are catching one of the early morning contests, Shakespeare’s has a breakfast menu. The restaurant also offers a late-night appetizer menu for those thrilling evening contests that keep fans glued to their seats.

Location: 819 S 1st Ave., Iowa City

Contact: 319-337-7275 or shakespearespubandgrill.com

More: Queer community demands UI police department's 'dissolution' after Tara Dutcher acquittal

Copper Boar

Cooper Boar in North Liberty specializes in made-from-scratch meals inspired by classic pub and comfort food with a contemporary twist. Its broad menu includes salads and sandwiches, pizza, and pasta, making it the perfect place to bring a group or family to watch the game.

Location: 575 Cameron Way Unit C, North Liberty

Contact: 319-665-0008 or copperboar.com

More: Why Iowa women's basketball can reach Final Four in 2024 March Madness predictions

Coach’s Corner

Coach’s Corner’s Instagram bio refers to itself as the “The #1 place to catch a game in Iowa City!” Located in University Heights, Coach’s Corner is a quintessential sports bar serving classic bar food fare from wings to a variety of sandwiches that will make you want to come back time and time again.

Location: 749 Mormon Trek Blvd., Iowa City

Contact: 319-358-9080 or coachscorneric.com

Backpocket Brewing

Backetpocket Brewery promises guests an atmosphere that goes beyond a typical taproom. It's a community gathering spot where people can enjoy great beer and good company. Catching the Iowa women's journey through the NCAA tournament is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Hawkeye nation.

Location: 903 Quarry Rd., Coralville

Contact: 319-449-3700 or backpocketbrewing.com

30 Hop 

30Hop's eclectic appeal is its massive beer menu and delectable eats accompanied by several large TVs. The Coralville establishment is celebrating 10 years on the Iowa River Landing and is ready to host a wave of college basketball fans throughout the month.

30Hop's ideal location is also mere steps away from the Iowa Athletic Club, Backpocket Brewery and Xtream Arena.

Location: 900 E 2nd Ave., Coralville

Contact: 319-351-3800 or 30hop.com

2Dogs Pub

With TVs on nearly every wall, you won’t miss a second of the game at 2Dogs Pub. In addition to serving up the best atmosphere, 2Dogs Pub has 20 beers on draft and an expansive menu filled with elevated bar eats.

Location: 1705 S 1st Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240

Contact: 319-408-8238 or 2dogspub.com

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: The best places in the Iowa City area to watch March Madness