Description: This is one of the most popular bars. The atmosphere is very cool. The downstairs serves as more of a restaurant, although there is a bar as well. Here you can sit on floor level or up on the balcony and look down at everyone below. If you want to have a conversation, this is the section to go to. This part is also less crowded than the upstairs.
The upstairs is the true bar area of the place. You will have to pay a cover to go upstairs (less than $5). There are three pool tables up here and air hockey. Chances are good, however, that they will already be taken and you’ll have a long wait ahead of you if you want to play. The crowd is a mix of Greek and non-Greek types. If you come early, you can get a table (around 6 to 8pm). Otherwise, you will be standing... and mostly likely standing in a mass of people. Another downside to Big Al’s is the bathroom situation. There is one women’s stall on the first level and two more on the bar level. The wait is always long (about 20 minutes or more). For men, the situation (as always) is not so desperate.
I would recommend Big Al’s for early in the evening when you can take advantage of appetizer and drink specials (4 to 9pm, when house highballs are $1) or on a weekday night. Otherwise, this place just gets too crowded.
www.bigalssportsbar.com, 540/951-3300
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