About Hedz Or Tales Sports Bar
Hedz Or Tales is a neighborhood dive/sports bar in La Habra, California (opened in 2003 (www.gigtown.com )). It’s known for its laid-back, *“Cheers”*-style atmosphere – one review even calls it a place “where everybody knows your name” (citytocitymarket.com ). Inside you’ll find multiple pool tables, dart boards, and a dozen big TVs (recently upgraded) for catching every game (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ) (local.yahoo.com ). The bar also has a covered outdoor patio where patrons can smoke and socialize (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ). Regulars praise the friendly bartenders (customers even name-check “Yvette and Evette” for great service (www.restaurantji.com )) and the overall welcoming vibe. Drinks include a wide variety of beers on tap and cocktail specials – for example, beer “bucket deals” are highlighted for bargain value (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ) (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ). Hedz Or Tales aims to be La Habra’s go-to local bar of choice, serving up drinks and community in equal measure (citytocitymarket.com ) (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ).
Events and Programming
Hedz Or Tales keeps a packed calendar of neighborhood events. Every Wednesday night is karaoke night, where anyone can grab the mic and sing (local.yahoo.com ). Thursday evenings offer “Free Billiards” – the pool tables are open at no extra cost (local.yahoo.com ). NFL Sundays are big here: the bar subscribes to NFL Sunday Ticket so football fans can watch every game simultaneously (local.yahoo.com ). Other recurring events include pub quizzes or game nights and pool tournaments for serious players (one review even mentions weekly pool league play). On Mondays the bar famously gives away free pizza to patrons (www.restaurantji.com ) – a hit with the crowd. Weekends often feature live entertainment: typically DJs or local bands on Friday/Saturday and sometimes special game or fighting-game tournaments (staff have hosted events like Street Fighter 6 competitions (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com )). Ticket prices for these events are usually just the cost of a drink or cover at the door; there are no formal ticket outlets unless it’s a private buy-out (local.yahoo.com ). In short, you can expect a lively mix of sports-viewing parties, karaoke, gaming contests, and social evenings almost every night of the week.
Tickets and Booking
Hedz Or Tales does not use an online ticketing system for most events. For routine nights and local contests, there’s typically no cover charge – you simply walk in and buy drinks at the bar. (If a special live band or private party is happening, the bar might collect a modest cover fee at the door.) The bar can be reserved in full for private events such as birthday parties or corporate gatherings – in fact, advertisements mention a “private buy-out” option for exactly that purpose (local.yahoo.com ). In those cases, you’d arrange details (and payment) directly with the bar’s management. Otherwise, the best strategy for popular shows or big games is to arrive early and claim a good spot. There are no presales, door tickets, or separate box office lines – it’s purely pay-on-entry if required, or just show up and grab a drink if it’s a free night.
Seating and Layout
The layout at Hedz Or Tales is straightforward and informal. Inside you’ll find a few booths and high-top tables facing multiple TV screens, plus bar stools along the counter. Two Diamond-brand pool tables are placed prominently in the lounge area (local.yahoo.com ), so some seating clusters around them. There’s also an outdoor patio with picnic-style tables and umbrellas (local.yahoo.com ). No seats are reserved – it’s general admission seating. If you want the best view of the TVs, look for a table or stool in front of the screens or near the center of the room. The patio seats are nice and airy, but they don’t face any TVs, so they’re best for casual conversation rather than watching games. The venue doesn’t have a separate VIP section; the entire bar is one open space. Your proximity to the bar or the pool tables will determine the vibe – near the bar is busy and social, while a booth in back is slightly quieter. Acoustic-wise it’s pitch doesn’t get booming like a big concert hall, but it gets lively when games or music play. Just note: wear good shoes if you plan on playing pool, and step carefully around the gaming areas. Generally, any seat with a clear line to a TV or the corner stage (if live music is playing) will give you the best experience; avoid sitting against the wall beneath the speaker if noise bothers you.
Getting There and Parking
Hedz Or Tales Sports Bar is located at 211 E Imperial Hwy, La Habra, CA 90631 (maps.roadtrippers.com ). Imperial Highway is the main east-west road through La Habra. If you’re driving, take the CA-57 or I-5 freeway and exit onto Imperial Hwy (State Route 90) east (from the 57) or west (from the 5). From either direction, the bar will be on Imperial Highway between Harbor Blvd and Beach Blvd. It sits just off Beach Blvd, so it’s easy to spot on Imperial.
Parking: There is private parking in the lots directly in front of and behind the building (local.yahoo.com ). Patrons can freely use these spots – the venue advertises “free of charge parking” for customers (restaurantguru.com ). Street parking is also available along Imperial and nearby side streets. Since nighttime events can fill the lot, try to arrive early on busy nights to secure a spot.
Public Transit: La Habra is primarily a driving city, but a few bus routes serve the area. Orange County Transit has lines running along Imperial Hwy and La Habra Blvd (for example, Routes 29/29A or 37 around the downtown area). The nearest bus stop is roughly a 5-minute walk (a block or two) from the bar. However, service after 10pm can be limited. For late-night travel, rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or a taxi is usually easiest – you can be dropped off right at the front door on Imperial Hwy.
Walking/Biking: There are sidewalks along Imperial and adjoining streets. If staying nearby, it’s a short walk or bike ride from most La Habra neighborhoods, but be cautious crossing busy roads at night.
Inside the Venue
When you step into Hedz Or Tales, expect a cozy, casual sports-bar vibe. The entrance leads directly into a lounge with wooden floors, game tables, and dim lighting to set a relaxed mood. Staff will typically check your ID if you order alcohol (the bar enforces the 21+ law), so have your valid ID ready. There’s no formal coat-check or security line; it’s a friendly walk-in atmosphere. Throughout the bar the soundtrack alternates between sports broadcasts and music playlists, raised volume during big plays. Behind the main bar you’ll find a wide selection of drinks – beers on tap, well cocktails, liquor, wine and more. Notably, Monday nights bring free pizza for patrons at no extra cost (www.restaurantji.com ), and many Friday/Saturday nights feature a local taco truck or food vendor under the patio lights (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ). (Outside snacks are actually welcome, as the bar doesn’t enforce outside-food restrictions (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ).) However, outside alcoholic beverages are strictly forbidden by law. The two pool tables in the center stay well-used (don’t forget quarters for Friday shark games), and there are also a couple of dart boards on a wall. The lounge has a couple of couches and high-top tables, especially along the sides near the TVs. Restrooms are single-user (one men’s, one women’s) and include ADA mobility space – the venue is marked “accessible” (local.yahoo.com ). Free Wi-Fi is available, so you can check sports scores or share photos (the listing even notes Wi-Fi as an amenity (local.yahoo.com )). Overall, expect no frills: casual bar furniture, local sports memorabilia on the walls, and patrons leaning back at the bar or clustered around games. Servers and bartenders typically bring drinks to table as well as at the bar, and they’re known to be personable. There’s also usually a coat rack or hooks near the entrance for guests’ bags. Be aware it can get loud during big games and contests, so plan accordingly if you need a quiet spot.
Nearby Amenities
Right around Hedz Or Tales there are plenty of spots to eat or stay before or after your visit. Within a few blocks you’ll find fast-casual and family restaurants – for example, an Applebee’s Grill & Bar is just a short drive northwest on W Imperial (restaurants.applebees.com ). There are also local Mexican restaurants, burger joints, pizza shops, and diners along Imperial Hwy and Beach Blvd (some open until midnight). If you’re arriving early, grab dinner across the street or a few blocks away; if you stay late, note that Imperial Hwy has several 24-hour fast food places and a 7-Eleven within walking distance.
For nightlife, the area doesn’t have a dense club scene, but there are a few other sports bars and pubs a mile or two away on La Habra Blvd. If you’re looking for a hotel, La Habra proper has only a handful of motels near the 57 freeway (e.g. small chains like Motel 6 or Howard Johnson), and more options pop up in neighboring Fullerton or La Mirada within 3–5 miles. Popular chains (Marriott, Holiday Inn Express, etc.) are a short drive away if you need overnight accommodations. Rideshare is plentiful in this area, but if staying overnight consider booking north or west of the bar for the easiest access back in the morning. Taxis and app-cars can drop off passengers right at the bar’s entrance, and the walk from any nearby hotel should be straightforward along the well-lit Imperial Highway.
What Makes This Venue Special
Hedz Or Tales stands out as a genuine community bar rather than a corporate chain. Its nickname as La Habra’s “Cheers”-like hangout stems from the loyal regulars and personal touch – bartenders remember patrons by name and treat newcomers like friends (citytocitymarket.com ) (www.restaurantji.com ). Many folks come here not just for the drinks, but for the social tradition: weekly trivia teams, pool league matches, and even living-room style Sunday football gatherings have become local lore. Collective rituals like grabbing a free pizza on Monday or joining the crowd for “Discount Drafts Happy Hour” add to the shared experience. The decor is modest, but the bar’s personality shines through those long nights of game commentary and storytelling.
Architecturally, it’s modest – a single-storey building with a covered patio and neon signs – but that plain look is part of the charm. Over 20 years since opening, the venue has been refreshed (e.g. new HDTVs and sound system (local.yahoo.com )) while retaining its dive feel. The real character comes from those “legendary” evenings: birthday karaoke marathons, intense pool shootouts between friends, call of “goal” echoing under the TVs. Even minor gestures – like offering outside snack privileges (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ), or hosting local college fundraisers – make it feel special and inclusive. Ultimately, Hedz Or Tales matters to the community because it feels like an old friend: casual, unpretentious, and centered on good times. It’s a place where artists who come in (say, covering rock bands on stage) know they’re playing for a crowd that’s there to have fun, and audiences love it for that knee-slapping local energy.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The bar is wheelchair-accessible (the listing notes it as “Accessible” (local.yahoo.com )) with a ramped entrance and ADA-compliant restrooms. If you need assistance, call ahead – staff are accommodating and the space inside is not large, so they can often reserve an easy-access spot.
What to bring: Pack your ID (drivers license or state ID) because it’s a licensed bar. There is no fancy dress code – casual attire (jeans, tees, jerseys) is perfect. Sports gear or jerseys are welcome when games are on. Cell phones and cameras are fine; there’s free Wi-Fi (local.yahoo.com ) so you won’t miss uploads.
Prohibitions: Don’t bring outside alcohol. (Outside snacks are actually allowed (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ), but liquor or beer from home is illegal.) No large bags are needed – it’s a relaxed dive, not a concert hall. Smoking is only allowed in the patio area (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ) per California law.
Peak times: Plan ahead for big events. Doors open by late morning on weekends and around lunchtime on weekdays, but on big game days or special karaoke nights the bar packs in quickly. If there’s a popular band or sports playoff, arrive early (or stake a table) to avoid standing-room. Public holidays or college home game weekends can be busy too.
Parking route: The best bet is the lot behind the bar or the small lot in front (local.yahoo.com ). After 8pm, there’s usually free street parking nearby. Avoid blocking the alley and watch for parking signs on Imperial.
Age restrictions: The atmosphere is generally 21+. Most nights underage guests (16–20) wouldn’t be here, but if they do come (with family) it’s early-evening and quiet. Post-8pm it’s mainly an adult crowd. Bartenders will check ID for alcohol purchases.
Tipping/Coat check: It’s a friendly flat-tip culture – bartenders and servers will appreciate 15–20% on drinks. There’s no formal coat check, but there’s usually a rack or coat hooks at the entrance.
Insider tip: One reviewer raved about the “delicious free pizza on Mondays” (www.restaurantji.com ) – don’t miss that if you’re around. Also, the jukebox or request-a-track box is often on shuffle, so you can spin a favorite song for the crowd. If you like games, Thursdays are ideal since pool fees are waived (local.yahoo.com ). And since restrooms have had safety concerns mentioned by a few, some visitors bring small hand sanitizer packs just in case, although management has addressing maintenance steadily.
Getting home: The neighborhood is generally safe, but if you stay late consider a ride share or taxi. Ask any bartender to call one, or use the convention number. The front entrance on Imperial is easy for drivers to spot, and there’s enough space for swingsets to pull up.
What types of events and performances are held at Hedz Or Tales Sports Bar?
Hedz Or Tales is primarily a sports and games bar, so you’ll find events like pool leagues, video game tournaments (e.g. fighting games), and weekly sports watch-parties. Regular themed nights include karaoke every Wednesday (local.yahoo.com ), free pool on Thursdays (local.yahoo.com ), and NFL Sunday Ticket gatherings on Sundays (local.yahoo.com ). They also host open mic or live music on many weekends and casual trivia or game nights. Most events are free to attend; it’s very much a community spot for local entertainment.
How do I get tickets or make a reservation for events at Hedz Or Tales?
For typical nights and local events, no advance tickets are needed – just arrive at the door. Hedz Or Tales doesn’t sell tickets online or have a box office for regular nights; it’s usually first-come seating. You can’t reserve a table in advance for busy nights unless you arrange a private buy-out. (They offer private-event buy-outs for parties or corporate gatherings (local.yahoo.com ).) In short, popular band nights or game days may have a small door cover, but otherwise there’s no presale or reservation system – just show up and grab a seat early if you can.
Where should I sit for the best viewing experience at Hedz Or Tales?
The bar has 12 TVs spread around the room, so there’s not really a single “bad” spot. To see multiple screens, find a table or stool near the center of the action (by the bar or pool tables). Booths facing a wall of TVs are ideal on game nights. If a live band or karaoke is on stage, sit in front of it. The outdoor patio has fun seating but no TVs, so only use it if you’re there mainly to socialize. Avoid spots where your back is to a main screen. In general, anywhere with a clear line-of-sight to a TV will give you a great view.
What is the address of Hedz Or Tales Sports Bar and how do I get there?
Hedz Or Tales is located at 211 E Imperial Hwy, La Habra, CA 90631 (maps.roadtrippers.com ). Imperial Highway is State Route 90 running east-west through La Habra. From Interstate 57, take the Imperial exit and head east; the bar will be on your right. From I-5, take Imperial west into town. It’s just west of Beach Blvd. You can use GPS or Google Maps with the address above to find it exactly. The front door faces Imperial Blvd (the main road).
Is there parking available at Hedz Or Tales?
Yes. Hedz Or Tales offers parking right in front and behind the building (local.yahoo.com ). Customers can park for free on-site – the venue advertises “free of charge parking” (restaurantguru.com ). There’s also street parking on Imperial Highway and side streets. The rear lot is usually used by local regulars, especially when the front lot fills up on busy nights. Just be sure not to block any driveways, and obey street parking signs. In practice, you can usually pull into either the front or back lot without issue (local.yahoo.com ).
Is there public transportation to Hedz Or Tales?
Public transit in La Habra is limited. Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) has bus routes that run along Imperial Hwy and La Habra Boulevard, which are within a block or two of the bar. For example, the La Habra–Fountain Valley line (Route 37) and other local lines pass nearby. However, late-night service is sparse. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or taxis are usually more reliable for late-evening trips. If you do take the bus, check the OCTA website for schedules and plan to get off at the Imperial & Harbor Blvd stop or a nearby corner.
Is Hedz Or Tales wheelchair accessible?
Yes. According to its listing, Hedz Or Tales is marked as “Accessible” (local.yahoo.com ). This means there is a wheelchair-accessible entrance (no steps at the door) and at least one restroom equipped for ADA access. The interior floorplan is open enough for a wheelchair to navigate among the tables and games, though it’s a relatively small space. If accessibility is a concern, it’s always a good idea to call ahead, but the bar intends to accommodate patrons with disabilities.
Can I bring my own food or snacks to Hedz Or Tales?
Yes – in fact, the bar openly allows outside snacks. One source even notes a “welcoming policy for outside snacks” (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ). Many patrons enjoy the occasional food truck (taco vendor) that parks outside on busy nights (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.wheree.com ). However, outside alcohol is strictly not allowed (by law). Feel free to bring granola bars or pizza boxes from home, but any beer, wine, or liquor must be purchased inside.
Does Hedz Or Tales offer free Wi-Fi for guests?
Yes, Hedz Or Tales provides free Wi-Fi. Its listing of amenities includes Wi-Fi (local.yahoo.com ). You should be able to connect on most nights – just ask the bartender for the network name. This is handy if you want to look up scores or share your evening online from the bar.
What are Hedz Or Tales’ hours of operation?
Hedz Or Tales keeps late hours. According to local listings, it opens midday and closes at 2 AM every day (www.menupix.com ) (maps.roadtrippers.com ). On weekdays (Mon–Thu) the bar typically opens around 11:00 AM, while on Friday through Sunday it may open as early as 10:00 AM (www.menupix.com ). Regardless of the morning hour, it stays open until 2:00 AM each night. (Always double-check current hours on a weekend, as special events can occasionally shift opening times.)
Does Hedz Or Tales have happy hour or drink specials?
Yes. The bar advertises “daily drink specials” (local.yahoo.com ), so there are usually happy-hour deals or discounted rounds (buckets of beer, wells and shots, etc.) on certain days or times. For example, one review mentions bucket deals on beer as a signature offering (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ). Specific specials change periodically, so it’s best to ask your server or bartenders about the night’s deals when you arrive. Nevertheless, you can count on some steals, especially early in the evening or during big games.
Is there a dress code or age restriction at Hedz Or Tales?
There is no formal dress code – patrons come in casual wear (jeans, t-shirts, jerseys, etc.). It’s a sports bar, so anything sporty or laid-back is fine. The age policy generally follows standard bar rules: you must be 21+ to drink alcohol (ID will be checked for drinks). Minors are not explicitly barred during daytime or early evening, but after dark the scene is overwhelmingly adult. If you plan to bring anyone under 18, verify if it’s allowed (some bars in California permit teens until 9 PM). As a rule of thumb, expect a mostly 21+ crowd late at night.
Is smoking allowed at Hedz Or Tales, and does it have outdoor seating?
By California law, indoor smoking is banned, so Hedz Or Tales does not allow smoking inside. However, there is a designated covered patio area outside where guests can smoke (hedz-or-tales-sports-bar.com-place.com ). This outdoor patio also provides seating (tables and benches) for those who want fresh air or a smoke break. The patio seating is cozy under string lights, but keep in mind no TVs reach the patio – it’s for chatting and people-watching, not game viewing.
Are credit cards accepted at Hedz Or Tales?
Yes. Like most modern bars, Hedz Or Tales accepts credit and debit cards for payment (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) at the bar. However, it’s smart to carry some cash on you just in case, especially for tips, tournaments, or any small cover charges. (The venue promotes “free parking,” which may hint at letting you park without ticket, but for tabs and drinks they will take cards.)
Are children or minors allowed in Hedz Or Tales?
Hedz Or Tales isn't specifically a young kids' venue, but minors aren't strictly banned. If you come early (afternoon or early evening) with family, teens might be tolerated, though they can’t drink. After dark, the crowd is almost entirely adults. There's no kids menu and the environment (pool halls, loud music) is more geared to grown-ups. If you plan to bring anyone under 18, it’s best they stick around before 8–9 PM and stay out of the main bar area. Otherwise, assume it’s mainly an adult hangout.
Are pets allowed at Hedz Or Tales Sports Bar?
No, pets are not allowed inside Hedz Or Tales. Only service animals (per ADA regulations) are permitted. The bar has no outdoor lawn or dog area, and most patrons are there for sports and games, so animals aren’t part of the scene. If you have a pet, it will need to stay at home or in the car.
How do I reserve Hedz Or Tales for a private event?
Hedz Or Tales does allow full venue reservations for private events (like birthday parties or corporate events). Their advertisements mention a “private buy-out” option (local.yahoo.com ). To arrange this, you would need to contact the bar’s management directly (by calling the number on their listing) and discuss date, time, guest count, and deposit. There’s no public online system for reservations; it’s handled by the bar staff. Keep in mind a buy-out likely has a minimum spend or fee, but you’ll have exclusive use of the space for your group.
What are some recommended restaurants or amenities close to Hedz Or Tales?
The immediate area has many casual dining options. For example, an Applebee’s Grill & Bar is located at 1238 W Imperial Hwy (just a few blocks away) (restaurants.applebees.com ), offering burgers, salads, and half-price appetizers during happy hour. You’ll also find fast food (In-N-Out, McDonald’s), pizza parlors, Mexican eateries and convenience stores along Imperial Hwy. For quick bites, the weekly taco truck parked outside owes allegiance to the bar crowd. In short, there’s no shortage of pre-show or late-night food spots within walking distance.
Are there any hotels nearby if I need to stay overnight?
La Habra itself has only a few small motels near the Freeway 57/Imperial area, but more options are just a short drive away. Many visitors stay in nearby Fullerton or Buena Park (3–6 miles south) where mid-range chains like Marriott, Holiday Inn, and Embassy Suites are common. Anaheim (10–15 minutes south) also has a huge selection of hotels. If you want to sleep close by, look for motels or inns on Harbor Blvd south of Imperial. Otherwise, booking a larger hotel in Fullerton or Anaheim and grabbing an Uber after a night out is a convenient choice.
Does Hedz Or Tales accept tipping or offer a coat check?
Yes, tipping is customary. Its bartenders and servers appreciate standard bar gratuity (15–20%) on your tab for good service. There’s no formal coat check—guests usually hang jackets on hooks or fold them over the bar stool back. So, plan on tipping your server or bartender, but you won’t find a cloakroom. Just secure your belongings at your table.