Got Game?

A robust competition in a sport you’d never guess

n the surface there isn’t much that distinguishes Big City from the slew of nearby Allston hangouts. But what’s best about this place is unadvertised and known only to those who seek it out. We’re talking about the competitive foosball. On certain Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, table-soccer tournaments for cash prizes (but mostly for pride) are the main event here on the four lighted Tornado tables. Some nights are DYP (draw your partner); others, BYP (bring your partner). There are even leagues. And talk about an ultimate ladies’ night: Women play free. Mondays may be the best night to attend. Any returning player who brings a new player to a Monday-night tournament gets a free entry for that night’s event, and can take advantage of the 3Ps special, offered only Sunday through Tuesday. You’ll find the schedule on the Massachusetts Foosball website. Moravek

Shhhh! Big City is run by the same people who own the nearby Sunset Cantina and Sunset Grill & Tap.

Shhhh! Tournaments follow International
Table Soccer Federation rules, and,
yes, there is an official anti-doping policy.

Shhhh! There is an annual foosball
world championship, usually held in Dallas,
with players from 40 countries.

Shhhh! A game of pool, a pitcher,
and a pizza for about 20 bucks.

Shhh who knew

Table football was imported to the United States by a relative of the English soccer fan who invented it in 1922, and patented in 1927. The patent has since expired.