Tom’s Watch Bar is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing names in the sports-entertainment and “eatertainment” space, and its recent openings in key markets show that its momentum is only increasing. Below is a look at where Tom’s is expanding and why tribal casinos should take notice and consider the brand as a venue partner.
Key Openings and Markets
Here are some of the most recent and notable locations Tom’s Watch Bar has launched or announced:
Indianapolis
In December 2024, Tom’s Watch Bar opened its downtown Indy location at 140 S. Illinois St. This 10,000-square-foot venue features a massive center “stadium” screen surrounded by 135 TVs and surround sound to create an immersive viewing environment.
Seattle (Washington)
Tom’s has made a push in Seattle, opening a flagship location near Climate Pledge Arena. The space is multi-story, with wall-to-wall screens and a full surround-sound setup. Notably, in Washington state, Tom’s also expanded inside ilani—the Cowlitz Tribe’s resort and casino. The newer venue is adjacent to ilani’s sportsbook and was developed in direct collaboration with the tribe.
San Diego and Phoenix
Tom’s has confirmed plans for openings in both San Diego, California and Phoenix, Arizona as part of its expansion pipeline.
Across All Locations
Tom’s is increasingly positioning itself as a hybrid venue—not just a standalone sports bar, but as part of casino and gaming ecosystems. Their partnership with SCCG Management explicitly frames the brand as enhancing retail and tribal casino entertainment offerings. Several of their venues are sited to support sportsbook operations or integrated within gaming properties.
Why Tom’s Watch Bar Is Growing Faster Than Typical Sports Bar Chains
Several factors are fueling Tom’s rapid trajectory:
- Aggressive Expansion and Strategic Growth
As of early 2025, Tom’s had 13 units operating, with plans to more than double its store count over the next 24 months. Their expansion includes top-tier markets, entertainment districts, and placements near integrated resort complexes. - Strong Revenue and Same-Store Growth
In 2024, Tom’s posted approximately 25% revenue growth, with profitability up 33%. Their same-store sales and foot traffic also increased significantly year-over-year. - Prime Real Estate and Demographic Targeting
Tom’s targets locations near stadiums, arenas, and entertainment complexes—capturing pre- and post-event foot traffic. The company retains CBRE to assist in sourcing sites near casinos, airports, and entertainment hubs. - Innovative Operating Model
Tom’s utilizes an operating partner model rather than traditional general managers, aligning incentives through ownership stakes. The brand also invests heavily in predictive operations and tech-driven efficiency. - Entertainment Flexibility
Tom’s has proven it can pivot beyond traditional sports programming. For example, a “Love Island” viewing event in Sacramento in 2025 generated a 900% sales increase over average nights. This shows the brand’s ability to tap into entertainment and pop culture as effectively as sports.
These factors position Tom’s Watch Bar as a modern, entertainment-driven hospitality concept that bridges sports, social experience, and technology—offering a scalable model beyond the limitations of typical sports bar chains.
Why Tribal Casinos Should Consider Tom’s Watch Bar Partnerships
Given Tom’s momentum and its alignment with the gaming and entertainment sectors, tribal casinos stand to benefit from integrating Tom’s Watch Bar into their property mix.
Enhance Non-Gaming Revenue and Dwell Time
A high-energy sports and entertainment bar attracts traffic before, during, and after sporting events. This extends the guest experience and drives cross-visits to gaming floors, hotels, and retail outlets.
Modernize the Entertainment Offering
Younger patrons expect immersive, tech-forward venues. Tom’s offers massive video walls, curated programming, upscale food and beverage options, and dynamic event scheduling that meets those expectations.
Synergies with Sportsbooks and iGaming
In states with legalized sports betting, Tom’s functions as a natural co-location or complementary space for sportsbooks. The ilani project in Washington state demonstrates the potential of this model within tribal gaming operations.
Leverage Brand Momentum and Marketing Reach
Partnering with a fast-growing national brand like Tom’s Watch Bar provides immediate PR lift, audience reach, and brand recognition—helping casinos attract new and repeat visitors.
Expand with Lower Risk
For tribal nations developing new entertainment or resort hubs, working with a proven national brand reduces the time and risk associated with creating a new concept from scratch.
Cross-Promotion and Loyalty Integration
Tom’s Watch Bar venues can tie into casino loyalty programs, host event nights, and support promotions that drive engagement across entertainment and gaming verticals.
Conclusion
Tom’s Watch Bar is redefining what a modern sports and entertainment venue can be. With expansion into Indianapolis, Seattle, San Diego, and Phoenix—and growing partnerships in the gaming sector—the brand has proven its ability to thrive in diverse markets.
For tribal casinos looking to modernize their offerings, attract younger audiences, and increase entertainment-driven revenue, partnering with Tom’s Watch Bar represents a forward-thinking and profitable opportunity.
