Watching an NBA game in-person is an exhilarating experience: you get to see some of the world’s best athletes close up and be part of a buzzing crowd, but you also are forced to shell out absurd prices for food and beer. One way to get around that is eating and drinking before the game, and we’ve scoped out some of the best places to do that within walking distance to three NBA stadiums
SPIN Toronto
The first time many people paid attention to the Toronto fan base was during their recent championship run and subsequent parade, but perhaps because of its Canadian location, it has been flying under the radar for years. While there are a number of traditional sports bars within walking distance you can check out, one of the most unique places you can visit is SPIN Toronto. SPIN Toronto is a restaurant that has your typical drinks and restaurant, but instead of having the typical space for dancing or mingling, there are ping pong tables. You can rent a table with your friends — and then let the games and trash talk begin. And at only a mere 10-minute walk to the Scotiabank Arena, SPIN Toronto has it all: drinks, food, location, and even ping pong.
No matter how long your cord may be, there comes a time in one’s life when you need to unplug, de-digitize, and play some old-fashioned analog ping pong! It’s good for your soul ? #DayofUnplugging pic.twitter.com/ZFZYACTbBL
— SPIN (@wearespin) March 6, 2020
Mama Tried, Miami
In addition to having some of the best-looking jerseys in the league, the Miami Heat’s American Airlines Arena is one of the best places to catch an NBA game — a Business Insider ranking lists it as the third-best arena in the league. Miami is a city that is notorious for its nightlife, so for those looking for a quick drink before the game, there are a multitude of options.
However, one spot that distinguishes itself from the rest is Mama Tried. Mama Tried is truly your local watering hole — a group of locals from all different walks of life contributed whatever they could to buy and run this establishment. A self described “quiet spot for happy hour and a rowdy spot for a late night,” Mama Tried has options for you both before and after the game. As far as food and drink goes at this neighborhood bar, they have $4 tallboys until 8 p.m. everyday.
House of Blues, Dallas
With brash billionaire Mark Cuban as an owner, the Dallas Mavericks transformed from one of the worst teams in the leagues to title contenders. While one of the fastest, if not the fastest, growing cities in America, the local House of Blues will take you back to Dallas’ roots with its southern food and live blues music. One top food option usually is the delicious jambalaya while enjoying the frequent live music performances. Located within a half-mile of the American Airlines Center, the House of Blues is a go-to destination, and downtown Dallas also has plenty of other options for people who enjoy a variety of cuisines.
Picture Credit: Instagram, Google Creative Commons Licenses, Unsplash
