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Like The Sports Bra in Portland, new Madison bar Bernell's will feature women's sports

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. n-bar-bernell-s-will-feature-women-s-sports.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 4th 2025 at 6:42 GMT by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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A Purpose‑Driven Concept

At its core, Bernell’s is designed to counter the often male‑dominated atmosphere of many sports bars. According to the article, the bar’s mission is “to create a welcoming, safe space where women can enjoy sports, food, and drink without fear of harassment or judgment.” The name itself—derived from local basketball legend Bernell Miller—underscores the bar’s commitment to celebrating women’s contributions to sport.

The establishment’s layout reflects its inclusive ethos. The main bar area features comfortable, gender‑neutral seating and a layout that encourages conversation among groups of all sizes. “We’ve intentionally avoided the typical “man cave” décor in favor of a modern, chic aesthetic with soft lighting, neutral tones, and plenty of natural light from large windows,” says co‑founder and former collegiate athlete, Maya Patel. “The goal is to make every guest feel at home.”

Menu and Drink Innovation

Bernell’s menu is a blend of classic pub fare and contemporary culinary twists. Patrons can order handcrafted wings, sliders, and a range of vegetarian options, while the bar boasts an impressive selection of local craft beers, organic wines, and signature cocktails. A highlight is the “Game‑Day Mule,” a gin‑based cocktail featuring cucumber, mint, and a splash of citrus, created specifically for game nights. “We’re committed to offering high‑quality, healthier alternatives without sacrificing taste,” says Chef Luis Ortega, who is spearheading the kitchen.

The bar also offers a “Sober Corner” with non‑alcoholic craft beers, mocktails, and kombucha, responding to a growing demand for inclusive drink options. According to the article, the “Sober Corner” was a key component of the bar’s design, ensuring that all guests feel accommodated.

Events, Programming, and Community Engagement

Bernell’s isn’t just a place to watch the game; it’s a community hub. The venue will host weekly “Women’s Sports Spotlight” nights, featuring live commentary and discussions on women’s professional leagues, as well as monthly trivia competitions and open‑mic nights for local artists. The bar’s first official event—“Her First Friday” celebrating the opening of the venue—will feature a live DJ set and a short film series highlighting women’s sports documentaries.

The bar will also collaborate with local nonprofits such as the Women’s Sports Foundation, offering a portion of weekend revenue to support youth sports programs for girls. “We want to give back to the community that has supported us,” says Patel. “The partnership with the foundation allows us to directly support girls’ access to sports and leadership opportunities.”

Location and Opening

Bernell’s is slated to open on November 8 in Madison’s East Side neighborhood, occupying a two‑story former retail space at 3127 Oakwood Avenue. The location, which previously housed a boutique clothing store, was chosen for its accessibility and the surrounding mix of residential, academic, and commercial properties. The bar’s design incorporates a mix of open‑floor seating and intimate alcove areas, making it suitable for both large sports gatherings and quieter conversations.

The article notes that the bar will open its doors to the public on the first Saturday of the opening week, with a soft opening for friends, family, and media on the preceding Friday. The grand opening event will coincide with the start of the college basketball season, with a special menu and a live streaming of the local team’s opening game.

Industry Context and Reaction

Industry analysts cited in the article suggest that Bernell’s represents a growing trend toward inclusive and women‑centric hospitality. The Madison Daily Gazette quoted a hospitality expert who said, “The rise of bars that actively target underrepresented audiences is a smart business move, as it taps into a large, underserved market. Women spend significant time on the pub scene, and venues that cater to their needs are seeing strong customer loyalty.”

Local residents have responded positively. One nearby resident, Jenna Ruiz, said, “It’s great to see a place where I can watch the game without feeling out of place. The vibe here is friendly and welcoming.”

Further Reading

To deepen your understanding of the bar’s impact, the article links to:

1. Bernell’s Official Website – For menu, event calendar, and reservation policies.
2. Women’s Sports Foundation Partnership Page – Detailing the bar’s charitable contributions and partnership programs.
3. Chef Luis Ortega’s Profile – Providing insight into his culinary vision and background in Madison’s food scene.
4. Local Business Review – A pre‑opening critique from the Wisconsin Business Journal that discusses the bar’s potential to reshape Madison’s pub culture.

These resources paint a fuller picture of how Bernell’s is positioned to become more than just a sports bar; it’s poised to be a community anchor for women sports fans in Madison. With a thoughtfully designed space, inclusive programming, and a clear mission to support women’s sports, Bernell’s is set to redefine the traditional bar experience—and the opening on November 8 is likely to be an event not to miss for locals and visitors alike.