About The 5th Quarter - Sports Bar and Restaurant
The 5th Quarter is a lively sports bar and grill located at 3360 S Fairway Street in Visalia’s Heritage Plaza (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). It’s known for its high-energy, friendly atmosphere and a diverse menu of classic bar fare and hearty comfort food. Multiple large-screen TVs broadcast all the big games, making it a favorite hangout for sports fans during the day, while the bar’s built-in sound and lighting system creates a fun party vibe at night (www.mapquest.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In addition to a full dining area with booths and tables, there is a separate adults-only lounge with pool tables and even a dance floor, which was noted as “lots of beers and drink selections and open floor space” in reviews (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Staff and customers alike mention the eclectic menu – one reviewer praised everything from cheese fries to sushi and pulled-pork sandwiches (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) – and the low-key, welcoming décor (sports memorabilia on the walls, plenty of neon signs, etc.). This mix of family-friendly and late-night entertainment makes The 5th Quarter stand out on the local scene; it offers the kind of “amazing atmosphere” with “so many things to do” (great food, TVs, pool tables, music) that guests rave about (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
While primarily a restaurant and bar, The 5th Quarter also hosts entertainment events. The most prominent recurring event is **karaoke night**, which typically runs midweek. (For example, an Eventbrite listing advertises a weekly “Wednesday Karaoke @ The 5th,” inviting patrons to a night of singing and fun (www.eventbrite.com ).) On weekends and game nights, the bar often features live music or DJ sets, and it runs specials during major sports events. Local bands and cover acts sometimes play on weekends, though the lineup changes frequently. Most events are open to the public; there is usually no advance ticket needed. If there is a special performance (such as a tribute band or a ticketed party), details will be posted on event sites and social media. In general, The 5th Quarter is more about casual drop-in fun than formal concerts – the emphasis is on local community events, game-watching parties, and weekly entertainment (karaoke, trivia nights, etc.). Prices for food and drinks are moderate, and any cover charges or event fees are usually minimal. (The venue is listed as $$-$$$ on dining guides (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), and reviews note that it does not have an expensive or exclusive feel.)
Tickets and Booking
Most nights at The 5th Quarter do not require pre-purchased tickets. There is no formal box office; entry is generally free or handled at the door if there is a cover charge. For example, weekly karaoke and other theme nights are advertised as open events where you just show up in time for the fun (www.eventbrite.com ). If the bar does host a private party or a larger attraction, any ticket information would be posted in advance on their social media or event listings. In practice, you can usually walk in off the street, sit down, and order food and drinks without booking ahead. However, on very busy game days or weekends, the best strategy is to arrive early or call ahead – heavy crowds can fill the place quickly.
Seating and Layout
The interior of The 5th Quarter is mostly open-plan. There is a main dining area with rows of booths and tables around the perimeter, all within sight of dozens of big flat-screen TVs. A full-length bar stretches along one side, with stools for additional seating. Toward the back, a separate enclosed lounge (21+ only) contains multiple pool tables, bench seating, and space for dancing or a DJ setup. In summer or good weather, there may also be a patio area outside with tables and an outdoor TV. The reviews mention “open floor space” and the ability to move between areas freely (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Acoustically, the main bar can get loud when music is playing or games are on, so ear-sensitive visitors sometimes prefer a seat farther from the speakers or the dance room. For watching games the best seats are those with a direct view of the large screens – many locals pick a corner booth or high-top near the center of the action. If you want to play pool or catch the DJ, go to the back 21+ lounge. Note there are no assigned or reserved seats; all seating is general admission. Also, there is no strict VIP section. (The venue is laid-back – it’s more about mixing and mingling than formal seating arrangements.)
Getting There and Parking
The 5th Quarter is at 3360 S Fairway St (Heritage Plaza) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), on Visalia’s south side. If you’re driving, the location is convenient to Highway 198 (the Sequoia Freeway) and Mooney Boulevard, the city’s main north–south artery. There is a large shared parking lot surrounding the shopping center, which is generally free for patrons of the plaza. Parking is plentiful outside the bar itself, though it can fill up on weekend nights and during big games. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are easy – just ask to be let out at the plaza entrance. Visalia’s local buses run mostly along major roads (such as Mooney, on the other side of the neighborhood) but do not have a stop right at the 5th Quarter’s lot. The closest transit stops are a few blocks away on Mooney Boulevard (Routes 8 or 12, depending on direction) or on Plaza Drive. In practice, most visitors find it easiest to drive or get an Uber/Lyft to this area. The venue’s phone number is (559) 741-0111 if you need directions, but it is clearly marked and easy to find on most GPS apps.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering The 5th Quarter, you’ll find a casual, sports-themed atmosphere. The bar has a standard ID and security check – staff typically require ID for anyone drinking alcohol or entering the 21+ room. There is no cover charge on most nights (the door policy is relaxed), and you can generally just walk in and grab a table. Service style is a mix of table and bar service; servers will take your order at your table, or you can order at the bar. As one review noted, the staff, music, and dancing contribute to a “fast-paced, fun” environment (www.indeed.com ). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building (local.yahoo.com ), so you can stream games or use your phone between plays. The menu is card-based but you order through a server or at the bar. Typical offerings include appetizers like cheese fries and wings, plus entrees such as burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and even sushi rolls (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). There is a full bar with beer, wine, and mixed drinks; patrons have noted the “lots of beers and drink selections” and the lengthy cocktail list (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Restrooms are located along the side wall of the main room; both men’s and women’s facilities are on the first floor and appear to be kept fairly clean, with at least one handicapped-accessible restroom (the venue is listed as “Accessible” on directory sites (local.yahoo.com )). There is no coat check – you’ll likely be seated near your table. One special amenity is the separate “21-and-over” lounge area mentioned earlier – kids and teens are welcome in the main dining space, but only adults 21+ can enter the back pool/dance room (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Overall, the inside of the 5th Quarter feels open and energetic: sports memorabilia fills the walls, multiple TVs show live games, and the music volume is kept high enough to encourage dancing after hours.
Nearby Amenities
The 5th Quarter is part of a small shopping center (Heritage Plaza), so immediate neighbors include retail shops and perhaps a quick-service eatery or two. However, it’s not a restaurant row in itself. If you want more dining or drink options, a short drive east on Mooney Boulevard will take you to a cluster of bars, chain restaurants, and casual cafes (pizza, Mexican fare, etc.). The Visalia Mall and the major hotel areas (including chain motels) are also just a few minutes to the north. Downtown Visalia—with its restaurants, brewpubs, and nightlife—is about 3 miles north on Mooney. For pre-show dining, many visitors come from vacation rentals or hotels in south Visalia and might grab a meal at nearby national chains or local grills. Insider tip: arriving a bit early can let you explore these nearby spots (or catch the Golden State Warriors and San Francisco Giants games, which often air on local sports networks). Late-night snacks after departing are usually the domain of 24-hour diners on Mooney or fast-food places, since the 5th Quarter itself closes by 2 a.m. on weekends.
What Makes This Venue Special
The 5th Quarter stands out in Visalia’s scene for combining a true sports bar experience with a big social vibe. Unlike a quiet pub, it’s built to feel like an “extra period” of fun after your day – hence the name. Famous for its college and pro game watch parties, it also hosts community lottery nights and friendly tournaments (pool and otherwise) on off evenings. Historically, it opened in the mid-2010s as a new franchise-style spot, but it quickly earned a loyal local following. Patrons love it for its “never a dull moment” environment: during the day it works as a casual family restaurant, and after sundown it pulses with live music, dancing and friendly crowds (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). There are often spontaneous mid-game traditions – like cheering on the hometown teams or even spur-of-the-moment karaoke contests – that give it a neighborhood feel. Menus have included some surprising items (e.g. sushi rolls in a sports bar) that people mention as unique (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), and the freedom to move from the dining area to the back lounge or dance floor without leaving the building keeps the energy high. Celebrities or major acts haven’t played here, but local college stars and musicians drop by after games, making it a cultural hub. In short, artists and audiences love it because it provides a rare combo of good food, lots of screens, and a nightclub-like party all in one reasonably priced stop (www.mapquest.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Before you head to The 5th Quarter, here are some insider pointers. First, it’s **wheelchair accessible and has free Wi-Fi** (local.yahoo.com ), which is nice if anyone in your group needs mobility accommodations or wants to stream highlights. Dress code is very casual – think jeans or shorts and t-shirts (team jerseys are a bonus on game nights). Plan to bring a valid ID, as staff strictly check 21+ identification for alcohol service and for entry into the back lounge (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). If you have a large party, you might try calling ahead; otherwise, it’s general admission seating, so arriving early for a big game (especially NFL or March Madness) is a good call. One common mistake: some folks assume the main bar dinner area has the same vibe as the lounge – it’s actually quieter for families and louder in the front bar zone. Keep an eye on your belongings in the open space and tip generously for table service (most teams of bartenders and servers keep busy managing both dining and music crowds). Kids and teenagers are welcome in the main dining room, but remember that the back-section with pool tables is for ages 21 and up (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) – plan accordingly. The bathrooms have accessible stalls, and there is no coat check, so dress lightly on crowded dance nights. Lastly, enjoy the **Menu Highlights**: regulars recommend trying the loaded cheese fries appetizer and the house burger with bacon (some even rave about the unexpected sushi roll options) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). If you think of other questions while planning your visit, local forums and review sites like Tripadvisor have more details from fellow patrons (for instance, one reviewer called it a “great hot spot” for families and friends (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of The 5th Quarter?
The 5th Quarter keeps late-night hours. On Fridays and Saturdays it stays open until about 2:00 AM (for example, listings show a Fri/Sat schedule of 11:00 AM–2:00 AM (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )). On other nights it typically closes around midnight (while Sunday opens earlier). Exact hours can vary by season and holiday, so it’s best to check the current schedule on their website or a map app before you go.
Where is The 5th Quarter located?
The 5th Quarter is at 3360 South Fairway Street, Visalia, CA , inside the Heritage Plaza shopping center (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). It’s on the south side of Visalia, just off Highway 198 and Mooney Boulevard. You can plug the address into your GPS or map app to get turn-by-turn directions. If you’re using Google Maps, search “The 5th Quarter Visalia” and it should come right up.
Is there free parking at the venue?
Yes – The 5th Quarter shares a large parking lot with the Heritage Plaza shops, so most guests just park their cars in the free lot around the building. On busy nights the lot can fill up (it serves the entire plaza), but there is usually street parking or nearby lot space if the front rows are full. There’s no paid valeting or meter – it’s all complimentary for patrons.
What public transit or rideshare options serve the area?
The 5th Quarter isn’t right on a main bus line, but Visalia Transit buses run along nearby Mooney Boulevard and Plaza Drive. (Occasionally you can walk a few blocks from a route 6 or 12 stop.) In practice, most people take an Uber/Lyft or taxi. Rideshare drop-offs can be made at the front entrance of the plaza. There are no ride-share “staging areas” at the bar, but it is easy for cars to pull in and out of the plaza parking lot.
Does The 5th Quarter have an age or dress code?
The dress code is very casual – patrons usually wear jeans, shorts, t-shirts or jerseys. There is a strict 21-and-over age policy for drinkers and the back pool/dance lounge. Anyone under 21 may sit in the main dining area with family or friends during restaurant hours. The venue staff will check IDs, so bring valid photo ID if you plan to drink or enter the 21+ section. There’s no formal cover charge on entry; you pay for drinks/food only.
Is The 5th Quarter wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Directory listings specifically note that The 5th Quarter is “Accessible” (local.yahoo.com ). The entrance and main dining area are flat and wheelchair-friendly, and there is at least one accessible restroom. If you need any assistance (for example, getting a table with more room), just ask a staff member – they are used to accommodating various needs. The establishment’s patio and the restaurant zone are on the same level; only the 21+ lounge might involve a small step or threshold, but the main bar itself is designed to be reasonably barrier-free.
Does The 5th Quarter offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, The 5th Quarter provides complimentary Wi-Fi service. In fact, its online profile lists “Wi-Fi” under amenities (local.yahoo.com ). Guests often connect to stream games or use social media while waiting for food. Feel free to ask a server for the network name and password once you’re seated – it should be free and easy to use throughout the bar and dining areas.
What kind of food and drinks does the bar serve?
The 5th Quarter has a large bar menu of American sports-bar favorites. Expect appetizers like wings, fries and fried pickles; sandwiches and burgers (including a popular bacon cheeseburger); tacos and nachos; and even some unexpected items like sushi rolls (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Reviewers highlight items such as loaded cheese fries and pulled-pork sandwiches. For drinks, there’s a full bar with beer (the beer selection is extensive) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), as well as wine and mixed cocktails. Portion sizes are hearty – the menu aims to keep fans full during the game – and prices are moderate (TripAdvisor lists it in the $$ range (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), meaning main courses often run around $10–20).
Are pool tables or other games available?
Yes – there are several pool tables in the separate 21+ lounge section at the back, along with open space for dancing. During the day these may not all be in use, but they are a main attraction on weekend nights. The venue does not have bowling or arcade machines, but sports broadcasts, trivia contests and occasional electronic dart games are common. Basically, if you’re looking for bar games, pool is the star feature in that adult-only area (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Can I make a reservation or buy tickets in advance?
The 5th Quarter generally does not take reservations for casual dining or enforce advance ticketing for its events. You can usually just walk in. For very large groups, it may be wise to call and check availability, especially on busy weekend evenings. If there ever is a special ticketed event (concert or big party), the bar would announce it through social media or local event pages. Otherwise, think of it like a restaurant: first-come, first-served seating with no dedicated box office (www.eventbrite.com ).
What payment methods are accepted?
Like most restaurants and bars, The 5th Quarter accepts cash and major credit/debit cards. At least one ATM may be available on-site or nearby if you need cash. (We recommend bringing a card or cash; check with your server if you need to split tabs.) There is no cover fee except for special late-night events, so you’ll simply pay for your orders normally.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No. California law prohibits indoor smoking in bars and restaurants. The 5th Quarter enforces this, so all smoking must be done outside. (There is usually a designated smoking area or patio where you can step out.) This ensures a smoke-free dining environment indoors. E-cigarettes/vaping are also typically only allowed outdoors.
Can families with children dine here?
Yes, families are welcomed in the restaurant area. The venue is listed as “Family Friendly” on its directory listing (local.yahoo.com ), meaning you can bring kids during the earlier diner hours. The atmosphere in the main dining room is not rowdy until late evening. Just be aware that the back lounge (with the pool tables) is adults-only, so children and teens must stay in the front section. Otherwise, parents often find plenty of kid-friendly menu options to keep everyone happy.
