Ausiello's 5th Street Bar and Grill

In the heart of Santa Rosa, located in the USA, lies a legendary establishment—Ausiello's 5th Street Grill. This family-owned sports bar has been a local icon since 2000, attracting guests with its relaxed and lively atmosphere.

The venue is famous as a cozy "neighborhood" bar where fans of San Francisco Bay Area teams and lovers of signature Bloody Marys are always welcome. The interior is decorated with a unique collection of sports memorabilia that owner Armand Ausiello has been collecting for 35 years. You can see everything here from rare bobbleheads to historic newspaper clippings from the middle of the last century.

The bar takes special pride in its kitchen, which focuses on honest, high-quality food. Visitors come here for juicy grilled meats and craft beer. The philosophy is simple: every guest here is part of the family, making this the perfect place for those seeking a warm welcome and authentic American hospitality.

For more details or to book a table for a large group, you can use the official communication channels. The establishment actively maintains contact with guests via its website and by phone.

The main entertainment here is, of course, watching sports broadcasts on one of the many televisions encased in custom-made wooden frames. Fans can immerse themselves in the exciting atmosphere while sipping a cold beer from a local brewery or a glass of wine. During Happy Hour, there are great deals on drinks and cocktails, making the experience even more pleasant.

Those looking for active leisure can start a pool or shuffleboard competition—these games are a long-standing tradition of the establishment. If you get hungry, be sure to try the signature sliders, chicken sandwiches, or check out the extensive salad bar, which is considered a rarity for modern bars. There is also a unique "condiment bar" where guests can choose their own sauces and toppings for their burgers.

Don't miss the chance to chat with Armand Ausiello himself. The owner often shares exciting stories with visitors about his memorabilia collection and the old days. His tales give the visit a special flair, turning a regular dinner into an engaging journey through sports and city history.

Finding the establishment is easy, as it is located in the heart of the business district at 609 5th St. If you are already exploring downtown, a walk from famous spots like Railroad Square or Courthouse Square will take only 5–10 minutes. It is an excellent way to conclude a walking tour of the city's historic districts.

For those who prefer to drive, parking is available on the surrounding streets and in nearby city garages. The bar is also easily accessible by public transport: Sonoma County Transit buses stop just a few steps away on 5th Street. If you are arriving from Sonoma County Airport (STS), a taxi or Uber ride will take no more than 15–20 minutes.

This establishment's journey to success began back in 1981 when a young Armand Ausiello took over an old bar in Belmont. Interestingly, sports were not the original theme: Armand started hanging sports photos on the walls simply to hide holes in the paneling. However, this decision unexpectedly attracted local sports teams and turned the bar into a hub for athletes.

It was at his first tavern that Armand met the love of his life, Debi O’Dea. Together, they developed the business for 18 years before moving to Sonoma County. In 2000, the Ausiello family, along with their children, opened the current restaurant on 5th Street, filling a niche for quality sports bars in the downtown area. The collection of items guests see today has been gathered over more than three decades.

Despite its success and popularity, Armand maintains personal control over every detail. Every morning, the owner cleans the establishment himself, setting high standards for the staff. His "neighborhood beer bar" philosophy is rooted in consistency and honesty toward guests, which has allowed the bar to weather many changes and remain a local favorite.

When planning your visit, it is best to set aside 1.5–3 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy lunch or dinner at a leisurely pace, explore the impressive collection on the walls, and soak up the spirit of a true American grill bar. If your goal is just a quick snack, you can make it in an hour.

However, if you decide to stay for a major sports match, join a pool tournament, or drop by for evening Happy Hour, time will fly by. On such days, guests happily spend up to 4 hours or more here, enjoying the company of friends and locals.

The bar's doors are open daily, starting from noon on weekdays and early morning on Sundays. From Monday to Thursday, the establishment is open from 11:30 am to midnight, while on Fridays and Saturdays, the fun continues until 02:00 am. On Sundays, the bar opens at 09:00 am, which is perfect for fans of morning broadcasts.

Operating hours may change on holidays or during special sporting events. Before visiting, it is recommended to check the official website to confirm current Happy Hour times and entertainment schedules.

A visit to this legendary grill bar can easily be combined with a tour of other iconic sites. The area around 5th Street is rich in historic landmarks, parks, and cultural spaces that will help you dive deeper into the spirit of Northern California.

Below is a list of interesting locations within walking distance or a short drive from the bar: