Sanford, like a lot of Central Florida towns, has its own unique personality that you should be aware of before you head in (not that you’ll get hurt by the locals, but you might get bored). Those looking to avoid bigger city dazzle come to Sanford, which means great things for anyone seeking out a sports bar. Despite the goofy name, Beer:30 at 2551 W. Airport Road, is just what a sports bar is supposed to be: big televisions, bar stools, cheap beer, and none of those fancy swinging lights or bogus smoke-free rules. Stripped down to the essentials, you might actually find this sports bar relaxing.
Décor: Located in an otherwise unassuming strip mall, Beer:30 opens large and inviting into its space. Beer:30 is divided into two main areas, one for those who want to watch TV and one for those who want to shoot pool, throw darts, and play pinball (and somehow pay attention to the game at the same time). But straddling the two areas is an item that should be in more bars: shuffleboard. It didn’t look well-used, but there it sits, waiting for the hipsters to adopt a shuffleboard retro kick.
TVs litter every corner, including a couple massive HDTV sets, which really do make the game feel more live (though it helps if you’re drunk). The walls are decorated with the expected suds and spirits paraphernalia as well as a plethora of photographs of patrons to let you know that the place has been around and has a following.
The Bar: Beer is the big draw, which leads you to believe that’s where Beer:30 got its name. Bottles and drafts harbor the likes of Bud Light and Bud Select, as well as Amber Bock, and Yuengling, which all come with the attractive price tag of $2.75. There are pitchers as well, which come at the low price of $9 on Saturday. Because this is Sanford and not Orlando, liquor is also reasonable, with wells mixers at $3.25 and top shelf and you-call-its at $4.25. The bar staff doesn’t let a dry glass sit long even while shaking the grease off hot wings, delivering ice cold pitchers, and catching up with the regulars.
Sounds: A touch screen jukebox packed with oft-played classic rock is almost hidden from view in the game area, likely because the crowd didn’t come to watch football on the huge HDTV while listening to The Eagles.
Crowd: A healthy mix of young and old drinkers congregate at Beer:30, some interested in whatever’s on TV and others more in tune with the cheap beer. All are friendly but mainly keep to themselves, though on a big game day anything goes.
Beer:30 is at 2551 W. Airport Road in Sanford. Call 407-323-1499.
