Bobby V’s Sports Bar & Grill, a beloved Arlington staple founded by legendary Major League player and former manager Bobby Valentine, has been a cornerstone for sports fans and food lovers alike for decades. In its heyday, the restaurant was more than just a place to grab a bite – it was a shrine to baseball history, with walls adorned with memorabilia and a menu that consistently delivered. But like many long-standing establishments, Bobby V’s faced a decline in quality and atmosphere after Bobby sold it off years ago. Disappointing food, inconsistent service, and an interior that fell into disrepair caused many loyal customers, ourselves included, to stop dining there altogether.
That said, we recently heard buzz about new ownership breathing life back into the place, so we decided to give Bobby V’s another shot. And we’re glad we did.
Upon entering, the changes were evident right away. The once tired, worn-out interior has been given a thorough makeover – clean, fresh, and welcoming. It’s clear that the new management takes pride in keeping the restaurant presentable. Even more impressive was the staff. Friendly, attentive, and well-trained, they were eager to serve and seemed to genuinely care about our experience. The new manager was visible, actively engaging with both patrons and staff, ensuring that everything was running smoothly.
As for the food? Superb. Every dish we sampled was fresh, well-prepared, and bursting with flavor – a far cry from the lackluster meals we had grown accustomed to in the past. This was Bobby V’s as we remembered it during its prime.
However, despite these positive changes, a few glaring missteps prevent us from awarding the fifth star. First and foremost, the removal of the restaurant's iconic Reuben sandwich. For years, this was Bobby V’s signature item, a dish beloved by regulars and an integral part of the menu. To see it missing was a significant disappointment. We understand the desire for change, but eliminating such a long-time favorite feels like a misstep that alienates the restaurant’s loyal customer base.
Secondly, and perhaps even more upsetting, is the absence of the personal memorabilia that once made Bobby V’s so special. Decades of baseball history – hundreds, if not thousands, of signed photographs and personal mementos from sports legends – have been stripped from the walls. While the interior may be cleaner, it feels sterile and lacks the character that once made Bobby V’s unique. What was once a celebration of Bobby Valentine’s legacy and the history of the sport has been reduced to just another sports bar. It’s a loss that can’t be understated.
In conclusion, Bobby V’s is making strides in the right direction under new ownership. The food and service have improved dramatically, and it’s clear the new team is dedicated to revitalizing the establishment. That said, the removal of the iconic Reuben sandwich and the loss of the personal memorabilia strip the restaurant of some of its identity. The “Trivia game” was noticeable absent as well. We award Bobby V’s a solid four stars – a worthy spot for a night out, but not quite the Bobby V’s of...
Read moreJust left body Vs waitress was smirky and dismissive several times. Waited to spray sticky(sticky sticky table. My hand stuck to it and my shirt) after we were seated. Spraying our faces and person, instead of simply spraying rag. Questioned her on where the salad was (that comes with meal, meal was already eaten and gone) became agitated answered "so you want your salad" our replied "meal is gone" her replied "so you want your ticket" also we had requested several times (well attempted to) for a drink refill just to have waitress nod point roll eyes. Then to not return x3. (I finally went to the bar for a refill,she returned with a refill then) I already had one. Returns with ticket slamming it on the table. SLAMMING as turning away!(Guess she was kicking us out) I understand people are understaffed but taking it out on the patrons doesn't help. No I didn't leave a nice tip but I still left a tip after her attempt of slamming tick on table failed when it stuck to her hand and flew on floor to then pick up and have thrown at us. I left out that my appetizer came with meal and over cooked pita chips (badly) you can't say anything cause you can't talk to the waitress. Unless If you understand pouty bad mood 16 jesters then 👍. That's when you can get them to acknowledge you. So some grade school "I just ignore you and asked like I can't hear or see you" language will help too. Would say they should be a hostess, for just a one time interaction with patrons...but that was still too much. However I believe we stayed polite through the duration till asking for our salad. So don't ask for your sides or you will be invited to leave like (Sassy snap snap) Don't know why anyone would want to stay to get to pay to be treated like that. Otherwise have , do and always have enjoyed going to Bobby V's. Great food and atmosphere....
Read moreFirst visit. Food was great. It was at a weekday lunchtime and was not busy at all at that time. I could tell it would be hopping later though! I want to go back! 5-2-21 Update! Food is still great. Pick up service- not so much. We are still doing order and pick up for safety at our house. We ordered here today. The order was correct and the food was good. But that was overshadowed by the lack of service when I picked it up. I was directed to the bar area and there was my order. But no one was interested in helping check me out. Do I take it back to the front? Just start walking out and hope someone will help me pay? I finally interrupted the bar tender and asked her and she went to get my server. After several minutes she came back and had to transfer my ticket to her register. I had already planned to tip and I still did. I only hope the bartender got it and not the server I never saw. The bartender was minimally attentive and just kept on with her conversation with a other patron, but I am grateful she checked me out before the food was totally cold. We will have to think about whether or not to return for carry out. 4-8-22 Great dinner! I love the Angel Burger and Tots! Everything was very well prepared...
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