Shep's On Sixth

You looking for a sports bar in Brainerd? Then stop. This is it. Sure they put the game on at the big chain places, but Shep's is the real deal. Great views of the TVs, bright lighting, spacious interior, (not that it doesn't get packed like sardines during events, but that's a good thing), immaculately clean (*including* the bathrooms which have their own TVs so you don't miss any of the game while taking care of business), and the best outdoor seating area in Brainerd. With the smoking ban in effect, the outdoor seating is paramount to some people, and the last time I was there the high walls kept the wind out, and portable heaters kept the temps up, very comfy (and spacious) even in a MN winter. And one of the best things about Sheps, aside from the whole Loyal Order Of The Elbow thing, is of course Shep himself. The man seems to be there all the time and takes a personal hand in customer service as well as running a tight ship. Very pleasant staff, and a fairly upbeat clientele. I'm more of a fan of dim english pub style than modern sports bar, but I still make the rounds to Sheps when I'm out, it's definitely worth grabbing a drink there even if you don't give two figs about sports.

Shep's on 6th is the best bar in downtown Brainerd. All the bartenders are excellent. There is an outdoor smoking patio with a tent and a heater.  Also on the patio is a bean bag toss game that seems very popular with people who drink out of pitchers. The clientele is quite friendly and moderately free of riff-raff. Happy Hour specials are offered daily, and special events occur with frequency. There are large television sets tuned to whatever sporting event is most important at the time. Watching a Viking's game at Shep's is truly an experience not to be missed. If you decide to stop in, be sure to ask about the Loyal Order of Elbows.