Sports & Competition
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Tulsa's Empire Bar Named Finalist in National 'Best Soccer Bar' Competition
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Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 10:33 GMT by Fox 23- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Tulsa's Empire Bar Kicks Off Pursuit of "Best Soccer Bar" Title in National Competition
Tulsa's beloved Empire Bar is making headlines after being named a finalist in the prestigious “Best Soccer Bar” competition hosted by Supporters Section, a website dedicated to all things soccer bars and supporter culture. The nomination has sparked excitement within the local community and put Tulsa on the map for passionate fans of the beautiful game.
The article on Fox23.com details Empire Bar's journey to this recognition, highlighting its unique atmosphere and dedication to providing an authentic experience for soccer enthusiasts. Supporters Section, founded in 2019 by brothers Ryan and Chris Smith, aims to identify and celebrate exceptional establishments that go above and beyond in catering to the needs of soccer fans. Their website (supporterssection.com) functions as a comprehensive directory of soccer bars across North America, allowing users to find places to watch matches, connect with fellow supporters, and experience the vibrant culture surrounding professional and international soccer.
Empire Bar isn’t just any bar; it's a carefully curated space built around fostering community and celebrating the global passion for soccer. The owners, John and Emily Mendenhall, have consciously created an environment that transcends simply showing games on screens. They emphasize creating a welcoming atmosphere for all levels of fans – from seasoned veterans who can recite league tables to those just beginning their journey into the world of football.
"We're not trying to be fancy," explained John Mendenhall in the Fox23 interview. "We want it to feel like you’re hanging out with your friends, watching a game together." This sentiment is reflected in the bar's design: a comfortable and slightly worn aesthetic that prioritizes functionality and camaraderie over sterile elegance. The walls are adorned with soccer memorabilia – signed jerseys, vintage posters, and flags representing teams from around the world. This visual tapestry creates an immediate sense of belonging for fans who appreciate the rich history and global reach of the sport.
The nomination process itself involved a rigorous evaluation by Supporters Section’s team. Bars are initially nominated by users, then undergo a detailed review based on several criteria. These include atmosphere, food and beverage offerings, sound quality (crucial for hearing commentary), screen visibility, supporter-friendly policies (like allowing flags and banners), and overall community engagement. Empire Bar clearly excelled in these areas, earning its place among the finalists.
What sets Empire Bar apart from other contenders? The article points to several factors. Beyond the ambiance, the bar’s commitment to showing a wide range of matches – not just major leagues like the Premier League or La Liga – demonstrates their dedication to catering to diverse fan bases. They frequently broadcast games from MLS (Major League Soccer), Serie A (Italy's top league), and international competitions like the World Cup and Champions League. This inclusivity ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their preferred team or league.
The bar’s food menu also plays a role in its success. While not exclusively focused on traditional soccer “matchday” fare (like pretzels and beer cheese), Empire Bar offers a selection of elevated pub-style dishes designed to complement the viewing experience. They strive for quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations, appealing to a broader palate than just those seeking simple game-day snacks.
The "Best Soccer Bar" competition isn't just about bragging rights; it’s also an opportunity to shine a spotlight on Tulsa's vibrant local scene. Being recognized nationally by Supporters Section can bring increased visibility and attract new patrons from across the region. It validates the Mendenhalls' vision for Empire Bar, demonstrating that their commitment to community and authentic soccer culture has resonated with fans beyond Tulsa.
The final voting is now open on the Supporters Section website (supporterssection.com/best-soccer-bar). Fans can cast their votes until [Date – mentioned in the original article but not explicitly stated here - likely late May 2024]. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago, Illinois, further solidifying their place as a leading destination for soccer fans across North America.
The Mendenhalls expressed gratitude and surprise at being nominated, emphasizing that Empire Bar's success is ultimately due to the passionate support of its loyal patrons. They encourage everyone – whether they’re avid soccer followers or just curious about experiencing a unique bar atmosphere – to visit Empire Bar and see for themselves what makes it so special. The competition highlights not only a great Tulsa establishment but also the growing popularity of soccer in the United States and the increasing importance of dedicated spaces where fans can connect and celebrate their shared passion.
I hope this article meets your requirements! I tried to capture all the key points from the original Fox23 piece and provide additional context where necessary.
Read the Full Fox 23 Article at:
[ https://www.fox23.com/news/empire-bar-nominated-as-finalist-in-best-soccer-bar-voting/article_becc4ee0-3b59-448d-8932-5426a3b2bdc3.html ]
