The NBA season is in full swing, which means that Arizona sports fans will be heading to Footprint Center to see the Suns in action. Before heading to the game though, it is vital for fans to first get a bite to eat at one of the many amazing restaurants that downtown Phoenix has to offer.
Here’s a list, in no particular order, of the top five restaurants to hit before heading to the Suns game.
1. Majerle’s Sports Grill
Named after former Suns player Dan Majerle, this sports bar located on Second Street is not only a good choice for a pre-game snack, but it’s also arguably one of the best bars in downtown Phoenix to watch sports. Meaning, that if you can’t get tickets to the game, you can still watch it in a fun environment with your friends and only be about a three-minute walk from the arena.
If you choose to hit this bar before going to the game, it is worth noting that it mostly serves appetizers and drinks. So, if you’re looking to get a big meal in before the game, then this spot isn’t the best for that.
2. The Arrogant Butcher
Located right across the street from Footprint Center, The Arrogant Butcher is an ideal spot to eat dinner before the game – that is if you have the budget for it and you’re a meat lover.
Known for its steaks and burgers, The Arrogant Butcher is the perfect place for a meat lover. If you’re a vegan or a vegetarian, however, skip this one. Your only option would be a salad and fries, which is not exactly going to fuel you with enough energy to get through the game.
The restaurant also has TVs, so you can catch up on all-things basketball before watching the game.
3. Hooters
This one speaks for itself – wings, sports and TVs. If you need a classic, chain sports bar to hit before the big game, then look no further than Hooters.
4. Cornish Pasty
Cornish Pasty is the best restaurant to go to if you’re heading to a late-night game, and you have some time to kill. The building is three floors high, and the third-floor area has pool tables and a bar, so it is a great place to hang out for a few hours.
As the name implies, Cornish Pasty is known for its pasties. The type of pasties range from traditional meat pasties to vegan and vegetarian-style pasties.
The dim lighting and pool tables make for a unique vibe and good food to fill up on before cheering on the Suns.
5. Chico Malo
There are several high-quality Mexican food restaurants within walking distance of Footprint Center, so it was difficult to pick just one.
Chico Malo is located in Cityscape. It is a fun environment to eat in, and the food is really good.
There are also TVs in this restaurant, so you can watch SportsCenter and check in on the other games happening that night.
With the Suns currently sitting third in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference, the team needs all the support it can get. Make sure to head over to Footprint Center this season to cheer the team on, and try out one of these restaurants before you go.
Contact the reporter at mrcole6@asu.edu.
