Knicks vs Pacers at Rabbit Hole: A Real Night of Basketball at a Sports Bar in NYC

The Real NYC Game Night

In a city where sports bars can feel like tourist traps or over-produced nightclubs, Rabbit Hole in Astoria stands out for what it does not try to be. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t drown the game out with loud DJ sets or gimmicks. But it does exactly what fans want: a clear view of the screen, good drinks, and a crowd that’s there for the basketball.

The Knicks vs Pacers game on May 21st was one of the most anticipated matchups of the series. And Rabbit Hole hosted a watch party that felt more like a local tradition than a commercial event.

Pre-Game Energy

People started arriving before sunset. Some wore Knicks jerseys, others just rolled in from work or the gym, but the vibe was the same—everyone was there to lock into the game.

There wasn’t a formal schedule, no influencers, and no scripted hype. Just basketball fans showing up to watch their team play. It’s the kind of pre-game energy that comes naturally when the community feels comfortable in a spot.

Inside Rabbit Hole: A Neighborhood Staple

Rabbit Hole isn’t the biggest bar in New York. It’s not trying to be. But the space is smartly set up with multiple screens, a well-positioned bar, and seating that lets you actually see the game from most spots.

The lighting is just right—dim enough to set a mood, but bright enough to keep the focus on the court. The sound system is clear and synced with the game feed, so there are no awkward delays or echo effects. You hear the swish, the whistles, and the crowd noise just like it’s meant to be.

People grabbed drinks—mostly beers and simple cocktails—and headed to their spots. Some stood near the bar, others settled in at tables, and a few found standing space with good angles near the back. No one was worried about appearances. This wasn’t about being seen. It was about seeing the game.

The Game Begins: Knicks Bring the Heat

From the first quarter, the Knicks came out aggressive, pressing the ball and creating early momentum. The Pacers responded with solid shooting and quick ball movement. Every possession felt like it mattered, and the fans inside Rabbit Hole knew it.

The reactions in the room weren’t just random cheers. They were in-sync. There were groans when a turnover killed a drive. Cheers when Brunson hit a clutch three. Side conversations happened, but most eyes stayed locked on the game.

There was no need for forced chants or emcees trying to hype up the room. The game was doing the work—and Rabbit Hole was giving it the stage.

Halftime: Reset Without Distraction

Halftime wasn’t filled with noise or forced entertainment. People got up to grab another round, order food, or just talk about the game so far.

Rabbit Hole keeps its menu straightforward—classic wings, fries, sliders, and a small selection of tacos and loaded nachos. It’s not trying to be a gastropub or reinvent bar food. The focus is on solid comfort food that pairs well with playoffs and cold drinks.

Second Half: Knicks Rally, Tension Builds

The second half brought out the tension. The Pacers kept it close, hitting big shots and pushing the Knicks on defense. But New York fought back with momentum swings, hustle plays, and that gritty fourth-quarter energy Knicks fans live for.

By this point, no one was checking their phones or scrolling through social media. Everyone in the bar was reacting in real time—high-fives, head shakes, and the occasional one-word commentary: “Damn.” “Let’s go.” “No foul?”

Rabbit Hole didn’t need to stage a performance. The bar worked because it didn’t distract. It gave people exactly what they came for: basketball, food, drinks, and a shared moment of intensity.

Post-Game Conversations: Wins, Losses, and What’s Next

After the final buzzer, there wasn’t a huge celebration or promo giveaway. People talked. Some stayed to break down the final minutes. Others filtered out slowly, finishing their drinks or settling up with the bartender.

The Knicks didn’t dominate—but they fought. That was enough to keep fans hopeful for the next game. And as one guy near the back table said while putting on his hoodie: “See y’all next game. Same spot.”

Why Rabbit Hole Works as a Sports Bar in NYC

So many places in the city try too hard to be everything: nightclub, restaurant, lounge, sports bar. Rabbit Hole doesn’t.

Here’s why it works:

• It’s local. People from the neighborhood come here because they want to, not because it’s on a list of top nightlife spots.

• The setup is functional. Good screens, good sound, and smart seating.

• There’s no fluff. The food is dependable, the drinks are cold, and the service is chill.

• The vibe is real. No one’s pretending to care about the game—they’re invested.

And maybe most importantly, it’s one of the few places in NYC where the game stays the main event.

Looking Ahead: Knicks Games at Rabbit Hole

The playoffs are far from over. Whether it’s another matchup with the Pacers or the next round, Rabbit Hole is already on the calendar for fans who want to watch it right.

If you’re looking for a sports bar in NYC that respects the game, the fans, and the atmosphere—without all the extras—you’ve got a spot.

Planning to Catch the Next Game?📍 Rabbit Hole – Astoria, Queens📅 Game nights vary. Follow us on Instagram: @rabbitholenyc🍺 Drink specials on select nights🍗 Kitchen open till late