City: Lexington, Kentucky
Foodie: Straitpinkie Squad, Straightpinkie.com

Venues: Commonwealth Stadium / Rupp Arena
Team: Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
Address: 1540 University Drive, Lexington, KY 40506 (The Wealth); 432 W Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40506 (Rupp)


Straightpinkie's Taste

Whether you are in town to see Rich Brooks and the revitalized Kentucky football program whomp on some fools in Commonwealth, or have came to watch the most storied program in all of college basketball, Billy Clyde's boys add another page to the history of Rupp Arena, these are the dining and drinking experiences you must try before leaving the L-E-X. The dining in Rupp Arena and The Wealth leaves a WHOLE LOT to be desired. Unless you wanna chomp on some Subway, Wendy's, A&W, or Fazoli's, you're gonna wanna eat before and after the events. Here's where to go:

*****STRAITPINKIE.COM #1 RECOMMENDATION*****

Pazzo's
385 S Limestone, Lexington, KY 40508
(859) 255-5125



The best hand-tossed pizza anywhere and the largest draft beer selection in Central Kentucky. If you're just lookin' to have a couple slices and get hammered in preparation of the night ahead, here's your spot. Pazzo's has the main floor bar, a Bourbon bar, a Back Bar, a Downstairs Pub and an Outdoor Patio (in other words, plenty of room to get plastered). Chow down on Pazzo's signature dish, the Mezzaluna: pizza and calzone in one, served stuffed and topped with cheese and marinara.


Then its on to the drankin’!!! We can’t even begin to list all the beers Pazzo’s has available and chilled, just waiting for your palate to taste… Over 40 beers on tap with a full-service bar, and imports from just about every country on the globe. If you are a stout fan, try out a Russian Imperial Stout, the Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout (10.6% ABV). Like Rye Beers? Go for a Goose Island Mild Winter Rye Ale (5.6% ABV) from Chitown. Wanna get hammered and fast? Down a Doppelbock from Austria entitled the Samichlaus (14.0% ABV). Happy Hour is from 4-7pm every day and features half price appetizers and $1.95 Domestic Drafts. They also have daily pint specials. LOVE THIS PLACE!!

*****STRAITPINKIE.COM OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS*****

Billy's Bar-B-Q
101 Cochran Rd, Lexington, KY 40502
(859) 269-9593



Billy’s has been featured in the New York Times and The Sophisticated Traveler, but no matter their success the staff at Billy’s will welcome you with down home Southern-style hospitality. Open for thirty years Billy’s has perfected the taste of real pit barbecue. But you’ll want to start out by sampling some of their appeteasers. From banana pepper rings, battered & fried, to catfish strips with homemade tartar sauce, Billy’s appeteasers do just what their name suggests, tease you with small samples of the deliciousness that is to come.


The straitpinkie squad’s favorite menu item is the Billy’s Blitz, a large Bar-B-Q samich, topped with slaw, cheese, onion & tomato, your choice of pork, beef, mutton, or pulled chicken, served with a pickle. But you really can’t go wrong with your selection, and it isn’t limited to just barbecue, if you wish you can try out a bratwurst, a hamburger, or some pork tenderloin and spare ribs. Billy’s side dishes are off the charts as well, from their sweet & tangy cole slaw to their southern favorite cheese grits and blackeyed peas, to their cooked on the pit baked beans. Mmmmm.

Malone's
Lansdowne location
3347 Tates Creek Rd, Lexington, KY 40502
(859) 335-6500


Best steak in Lexington hands down and is also attached to Oscar's oyster and piano bar, which makes for an excellent relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere whilst you are downing a cold Kentucky Ale and shuckin' some oysters on the half shell and reminiscin' about how the Whomp Squad just put a hurtin' on another high-powered SEC offense.

A La Lucie
159 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507
859-252-5277


A delectable French dining experience awaits you at A La Lucie. Their menu is all-embracing, and you can stay local and try a Kentucky Hot Brown (ham and turkey served open faced over toasted bread and topped with tomato, bacon and rich Mornay sauce).


Or branch out and try another straitpinkie squad favorite, the Kentucky Rabbit (slow braised Marion County rabbit with white wine, herbs, mushrooms, and roast new potatoes). Dinner here can be a little pricy, so if your wallet is light, hit up A La Lucie for lunch which is much more affordable and just as appetizing. And lunch or dinner, you must finish your visit to A La Lucie's with Miss Lucie her self's Lexington Bread Pudding (served warm and topped with a Kentucky bourbon hard sauce).

Atomic Cafe
265 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 254-1969


Part of the historic Downtown Restaurant District, Caribbean-inspired dishes and live reaggae music with a lively patio scene make the Atomic Cafe, a unique, fun experience. The straitpinkie squad recommends you start off with the sweet potato chips and salsa. Then its on to a cup of conch soup and finally go for the Jerk Chicken sandwich with black beans and rice (also highly recommended to swap out either the beans or the rice for their very tasty mac and cheese). Have a Sioux City Fine Jamaican Ginger Beer with your meal to perfectly offset the spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg of the jerk chicken. Hang around as the Atomic Cafe doubles as a nightclub and the ladies love the Latin dancing!!!

Mad Mushroom Pizza
341 S Limestone # B, Lexington, KY 40508
(859) 252-3278

Perfect for the late, late night snack. Pizza here is good, but the way to go is the CheeseStix...Just $5 for a 10” small, these babies are mouth-watering goodness. Fresh homemade dough basted with garlic butter & smothered with mozzarella cheese. Served with Ranch and Pizza Sauce on the side for Dipping. Mmmmm.

Portofino's
249 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 253-9300

For scrumptious I-talian food, treat yourself to a feast at Portofino's downtown on Main. The Focaccia Bread is out of this world, and again you can't go wrong with any selection off the menu. We would recommend starting off with the calamari and rock shrimp. Semolina dusted, lightly fried squid and rock shrimp, herb aioli and marinara sauces.

The straitpinkie squad is a big fan of Portofino's Lasagna and Chicken Parmesan, or if you're in the mood for a sandwich definitely try the Cuban Wrap. A sliced grilled pork tenderloin, turkey & swiss tortilla served with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, pickles & cumin-lime aioli. Unreal.

The Dame
367 E Main Street, Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 231-7263


Home to reasonably priced beer and the best live music venue we have ever seen. The Dame recently moved into the Main Street Live complex and to be honest, none of the straitpinkie squad has seen the new setup. However, they retained 100% of their staff and Tom Yost is still the owner, so we have 100% confidence that The Dame is still one of, if not the best, places to see live music. If you are lucky enough, you will be in town during one of Slaughters, Kentucky's own Chris Knight's performances. And if you are not that lucky, you should still check out C Knight's music, he is one of the greatest singer/songwriters to ever grace the planet.

Two Keys Tavern
333 S Limestone, Lexington, KY 40508
(859) 254-5000


When the day is done, and the night is young, this is where you’ll want to head to wrap up your evening. Only a stone’s throw (literally 0.1 miles from Pazzo’s) and essentially a legend, Two Keys offers a dive/frat house/outdoor ambiance complete with beer memorabilia and UK relics. A back deck, several bars, and sidewalk seating and the place is still almost always packed full of the city’s hardest partiers. Enjoy the live music, comedy acts, televised sporting events, pool tables, and tasty pub fare, and of course all the undergrads, cheap beer and drunken debauchery. Equipped with 18 flat screen TVs and a 10 foot projector screen, you can watch the replays of all the whompin’ highlights from the day, or catch a west coast game live. If you happen to be in town on Thursday night you should take advantage of Two Keys’ all you can drink ($10 for guys, $8 for girls)...

www.straitpinkie.com

City: New Brunswick, New Jersey
Foodie: Dan Levy, On The DL

Venue: Rutgers Stadium

Team: Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Address: 1 Scarlet Knight Way, Piscataway, NJ 08854

Dan's Taste

With Rutgers playing in the hilariously named PapaJohns.com Bowl today (note to all companies wanting to spend their advertising dollars on Bowl sponsorships, we know we can add ‘.com’ to the end of your business and find you online. Or there’s Google. You sell pizza, I don’t care if you have a blog, or whatever), I have been asked to shed a little light on the greatest food invention on four wheels – The Grease Trucks.

New Jersey is known for mobile foodstuffs. From the Corner Dogs in Atlantic City to Mister Softee trucks jingling down the block on hot summer days, we sure love our transportation provisions in the Garden State. Which is why the Grease Trucks, located on College Ave. in New Brunswick, N.J., are a must visit any time you find yourself in Hub City.

Back in the mid 1990s the Grease Trucks were legendary around the state. Any high-schooler who had a friend at Rutgers would visit on weekends just to brag to your friends that you had a Fat Cat. Seriously, we did this. The stories were as good as the food. The Grease Trucks never closed. Then, we heard they closed just one hour per day (usually between 5 and 6 am) to de-grease, presumably both the grills and the grillers, before the morning rush. With the fraternities just a block away, there was never a shortage of drunken hilarity at the Trucks. Which is why in the late 1990’s Rutgers legislated stricter hours, first forcing the trucks to close at 3am, one hour after the bars close, to eventually 2am. Which is just insane. Feeling the squeeze, some of the more successful Truck owners rented space on Easton Ave. to avoid the limitations put on by Rutgers and stay open as long as they want. By the turn of the century, there was talk about getting rid of the trucks altogether. To this day there are discussions about squeezing the Trucks out of town. But of all my years at Rutgers, nothing was better than stumbling out of a bar at closing and ordering a Fat Cat at 2:00 a.m. from a guy in a truck calling me buddy. And nothing ever will be.

Hey Buddy

There is one rule at the Grease Trucks. Do. Not. Make. Eye. Contact. If you have your favorite truck, keep your head down until you get there. Don’t acknowledge the other truck owners or they will suck you in. Their powers of persuasion know no bounds. They have photos of all their patrons, mostly the good looking ones wearing little clothing. They always ALWAYS call you buddy. ‘You’re not my buddy. Jimmy is my buddy. I just want a sandwich over from him.’ Jimmy doesn’t know who the hell I am, but he’s convinced me he does. That’s how they getcha. Oh, the awkwardness when you would wait six deep in line at your favorite truck when the truck next door had no customers. And you know what, the food all tasted the same. Fantastic.

The Food

So what do they sell at these Grease Trucks anyway? Well, everything for one. But let’s start with the sandwiches. The most famous sandwich of all is the Fat Cat. Two cheeseburgers, lettuce, tomato, onions, ketchup, mustard and fries all inside a long roll and wrapped in delicious tin foil. Yes, I’m certain that 20% of all Grease Truck patrons have eaten the foil at one point in their time at Rutgers. Simple. Brilliant. The Fat Cat. And it started at Fat Revolution.

Fat Cat

There’s the Fat Moon. The Fat Koko. The Fat Sam. There’s the Fat Darrell, which is some concoction of mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, fries and marinara sauce. There’s the Fat Bitch, which Rutgers brass made the trucks change. Funny in that when the Lebanese proprietors of most of the trucks pronounce the word, it sounds like “Beach” and thusly was born the Fat Beach. There’s been the Fat Dyke and Fat Filipino (both nixed by Rutgers). Basically, if you can think of something to put inside a long roll – sub roll, hoagie roll, whatever – it can be a Fat Something. And it’s all delicious.

Darrell Butler with his namesake.

More than just Fat

The Grease Trucks offer so much more than these scrumptious yet heavy, hard-to-eat-in-one-sitting-unless-you-are-four-sheets-to-the-wind sandwiches. They have breakfast. Order an egg and cheese while waiting for the bus in the morning and count how many seconds it takes for them to get out the question “salt, pepper, ketchup?” My estimation: negative three seconds. They have gyros. Not “jai-roh.” No. They have ‘yee-roh”. And they are delicious with or without “the hot-a-sauce.” But if you’re in a rush, and just need some gum or crackers or a drink or some Phillies Blunts (rumor had it you could get some different blunts if you went to the right trucks) the Trucks are a one-stop-shop for all quenching or satiating needs.

In all my years working at Rutgers, I always asked why we didn’t get the trucks to park outside the gate and split the profits with them every game. I’m sure the concessionaires wouldn’t want that, but if it’s about serving the fan base, that’s the only way to go. To get from the stadium to the trucks it’s at least one bus and, after a game, at least 25 minutes. Sure the trucks are a stoner’s throw away from all the bars, tons of apartments, houses and dorms, but it’s not where the action is on game day. My suggestion: bring the trucks to football games. Split the money with the school. It might be the only way to save them.

Where to watch the game

If you’re talking about food, yes the trucks are the place to get it. But what about drink? What about a place to watch the game? That’s the thing about Rutgers. It’s huge. There are 35,000 people somewhere around all the campuses. But you find your niche. You find your local spot and make your friends. For me, that place was the Olive Branch. I lived there, some nights literally. I’ve stayed friends with the owners and bartenders. They always know your name there. Hell, I wrote a book about my life there, sitting down during happy hour with my laptop and a pitcher of beer every night until the younger crowd came in around 9pm. Yes, this was before blogs.

Fans watching at Olive Branch.

Well, with at least five huge flat-panel TVs and people who care as much about Rutgers Football as those on the field, the Olive Branch is your place to go watch a game. Hell, watch today’s game there. And if you’re there, order one of their Famous Dirty Sandwiches. Basically, they are great sandwiches like chicken tenders soaked in buffalo sauce or topped with cheddar, jalapenos and salsa, all put on garlic bread. Or, if you want regular bread, order it Clean. I’ll consider the Clean Sandwich my personal legacy. But if you do go, order a Dirty Levy just to see if they still remember me. (note: the Dirty Levy was the nickname for the original Dirty Sandwich, but with cheese bread instead of Garlic. That’s what started the Clean option. Who needs garlic bread breath all night, right?).

Whether it’s today, this month or sometime soon, get to New Brunswick. And grab yourself a Fat Bitch while you’re there. Go Rutgers.

Tell us about your favorite Grease Truck memories in the comments.

Grease Truck photo: Mike Tigas' photostream

Fat Darrell: AP File Photo

Fat Cat: ghetto of our mind's photostream

Olive Branch Fans: Aaron Houston

City: Syracuse, New York
Foodie: Brian Harrison, Orange::44


Venue: Carrier Dome
Address: Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244
Team: Syracuse Orange (NCAA)


Brian's Taste

There are two main areas in Syracuse that are musts when you visit, as well as several other areas with hidden gems of Syracuse signature restaurants. You really cannot go wrong no matter where you go, so it really depends on what you are up to that day as to where you go.

M Street


M Street, or Marshall Street, is the main street with restaurants and bars about one block from campus, and about five minutes from the center of campus, The Quad. There are several delicious options there for food no matter what your mood is. This is the area where most people hang out and tailgate on football game days as well. I'll cover food first.

El Saha – The most delicious pita happens to be the cheapest on Marshall Street. With delicious options to cram in your pita, an entertaining staff, and usually South Park or Family Guy on the television, this is where you want to stop for a pita, especially after the bars close. Chances are there is not too long of a line either.


Pita Pit – This restaurant is technically a chain, but it is really only around college campuses, so you have probably never heard of it or barely remember it from your own undergrad days. It is slightly more pricy, but they offer a few more toppings, an artsy menu, and everything is amazing with bacon, much like life.

Jimmy John's – The smells are free, but sadly the subs are not. This sandwich shop is delicious however, despite being a fairly well know chain. Their bread is baked fresh, the staff is bizarre, and now they do not use the till money to buy drugs (the previous owner was indicted for doing just that). I recommend the Lulu, or if you are drunk and adventurous, the "Buzz Shaw", an Italian Nightclub and a Bloody Mary (Bloody Mary not available [Named in honor of our previous Chancellor who had the reputation of being a booze hound]).


Augie's Pizza – This is the perfect place to grab a slice of pizza after you exit the bars at 2:00am. Probably because it is the only one open that late. They offer cheese slices for $1.25. Get two if you are really hungry, because one will not do. Just do not mess with the staff, they will not hesitate to kick you out, and a fight may break out in front. I may still be banned for life if it is the same staff there.

Cosmo's Pizza – A classic joint that has a greasy diner feel. Their pizza is good, but I would go for any number of other choices they offer. This is the prefect place to grab breakfast before a game, or a classic breakfast with parents who appreciate that kind of thing. This was my Dad's favorite place on the Hill. Finish the deal with a THB (toasted honey bun) and a scoop of vanilla.

Varsity Pizza – The best cheese steak on the hill. They also have many other tasty choices, plenty of tables, and tasty pizza. Tradition has it that if the football team wins, the band comes directly from the Dome and they flip the opposing team's banner upside down on the wall. This place is always busy, especially on game days. However, various hospital workers frequent this establishment on their lunch breaks all the time, as there are two hospitals within a block of M Street.


Aladdin's – This place offers several natural and organic choices, for the more health conscious. It also has a distinctive Middle Eastern flair. I've only ever eaten here a handful of times but it hasn't really disappointed me. The desserts are fantastic here as well.

Acropolis Pizza – They have subs and the usual pizza parlor fare. Nothing too remarkable here. Why go here when you can just go to Cosmo's though. The upside is that they do serve alcohol.

Faegan's Pub – For something a little more upscale, this is probably the place you should be. With a multitude of salads, burgers, wraps, and sandwiches you have plenty of options. Also, with over 40 beers on tap, you can find something to go with any meal. More on this portion right now.

Speaking of alcohol, there are several bars in the M Street area. All of which I have been to at some point in my life, and being an individual that enjoys an adult beverage or two now and then, take my word on this stuff.

Faegan's Pub – The gold standard in Marshall Street Bars. With over 40 beers on tap and bartenders that are skilled in the craft of making drinks and shots, this is where most alumni end up, game day or not. While there are not many specials on Friday, it is vastly less crowded and a much better atmosphere than the other bars on the hill. The staff is always great and you will not be disappointed. Say hi to Guy the Bartender for me and tell him Mr. Harrison sent you.

Chuck's – What could best be described as a hole in the wall, this is the dive bar on the hill. Graffiti covers the walls, but the pitchers flow well here. During Friday Happy Hour pitchers are $3/5, and while they do not have a vastly impressive menu, their fries do the trick. This bar gets awfully crowded with bitchy undergrads wearing pink shirts and popped collars. If that is your cup of tea then this is your bar. This is a fun place to watch a game however.


Lucy's Retired Surfer Bar – No one that is not a staff member should really enter this place.

Maggie's – The new Maggie's is located below the Student Choice Market. I've been down in it but never really drank there. It has a lot of new HiDef televisions and a "VIP" section. It could be fun, but enter at your own risk. Unless you were in a sorority. Then game on. Clearly you will run into some douche frat guys here, so again if that is your jam then do it.

Harry's – This bar has a small place in my heart, as my father's cousin was Harry. However, he long sold the bar before I got to the hill so no free drinks for me. This bar is ideal for MNF watching and eating wings. However, chances are you will not be in town on Monday. Not a bad option for a bar choice though. It is solid with decent food and probably not a big crowd.

The Sheraton Hotel – While I would not stay here all night, they do have free wings and pizza for a couple hours starting at five. If you are a broke alumni, or just some guy in town looking for a free ride, maybe you should start out here. It is not a bad hotel bar, and you very well might be staying there as it is one of the two bars on the hill.

So that is M Street in a nut shell. If you are up for a game, chances are this is where you will end up before, after, or both. But this is not the end of the culinary adventure in the city of Syracuse. The next big area that is a must to visit is Armory Square in downtown Syracuse.

Armory Square

This is about ten minutes from the hill, and is where the night life not near campus is located. Syracuse fun fact: Syracuse, New York is where the shot clock for basketball was invented. Therefore, there is a perpetual shot clock counting down in Armory Square. Surely, if you get drunk you will count it down with your friends.

Pastabilities – A bit more upscale than most places downtown, it is a favorite of many folks on the hill. While not my favorite, there are plenty of tasty options on the menu, and it is conveniently located near all of your favorite downtown bars. Their appetizers are fantastic and their pasta is world class, with a variety of sauces to choose from.

Empire Brewing Company – A small underground restaurant that has a small but somewhat fancy menu. They brew their own beer and can pair it with any meal you choose which is also very nice. They are known for their burgers, or if you are feeling frugal the Chicken Po' Boy.


Syracuse Suds – This bar also makes their own beer and has an extensive sports bar type menu. The appetizers are very good here and they serve some great steaks as well. Finish it off with some homemade root beer. They have plenty of televisions so any game you want to watch you probably can.

Kitty Hoynes – This is a traditional Irish pub and restaurant in the heart of the Armory Square area. They usually have traditional Irish music playing, both on tape and live. This is a nice traditional pub with good food, and a great place to have a Guinness.

There are other bars and restaurants in the area, but they are pretty pedestrian compared to the ones listed above. However there are bars in the area that are fantastic.

Daisy Dukes/Vinyl – This country bar has beer and liquor. They also have a bull to ride, which can be outstanding if there are cute ladies up for it. Be warned though, one of their bouncers was recently arrested for assault, so be on your best behavior. Attached to it is Vinyl, a pretentious dance club that looks exactly like you think it does in your head. If dancing is your thing, you can head over there and do so.

Mully's – Mulrooney's Pub is an Irish bar is undistinguishable in every way. They have booze and you don't. Who's more Irish?

PJ Dorsey's – This is a fun little bar with room, dancing, and a favorite of mine as I spent my 21st birthday there. Nothing too remarkable about it, but again, they have drinks and you want some. They do have several machines that chill various liquors that you will then take as a shot as well. This is a kind of middle of the road bar that will usually have a decent crowd.

The Blue Tusk – This is the most expensive place downtown, but it could be worth it if you enjoy rare brews and an upscale atmosphere. A LOT of beers on tap, including local brews from Middle Ages Brewery. Also, the back room is the perfect place to sit down, enjoy the company of friends, and some fine ales.


Bar – This is an upscale place with a dress code and loud music. It is also very dark. Perfect for being sketchy if you are into that sort of thing. The bartenders know what they are doing, so you'll be good to go. This would not be my first choice though.

The Limerick Pub – This is a fairly Irish place, with plenty of big pint glasses and several choices in imported bottled beers.

Awful Al's – This is the only establishment that lets you smoke inside because it is a cigar bar. They offer numerous beers and liquors, and they sell numerous cigars for your smoking pleasure, if that is your sort of thing.

Awful Al's Wall of Whiskey

Empire Brewing Company – This is also a quite place to enjoy some freshly brewed local beers. I recommend the Blueberry Wheat. This is a nice underground place that is a great place to chill and talk with friends.

So those are the main areas, but there are several places that are worth knowing that are some of my favorite places.

Tully's – Located on Erie Blvd. and in Liverpool this is the ultimate sports bar in Syracuse. With a shit ton of TV's, excellent food ranging from appetizers to dinners, and the best chicken tenders (Tully's Tenders) in Syracuse, this will surely cure your hunger, especially if you want to watch a game. They also have outstanding desserts. Definitely a Syracuse original that I would highly recommend to any out-of-towner.

Spaghetti Warehouse – Located north of downtown, this restaurant has a seemingly endless dining room, and a lot of pasta options. There is rarely a wait, and in my opinion this is the place for Italian in the city. Pretty much anything is good, but feel free to ask the wait staff, because they know what they are talking about. Especially tasty when dining with friends in the trolley car.

Zebb's – Way out in Mattydale just off I-81 about 15 minutes north of Syracuse, it is a hidden gem. I feel like not many SU kids know about this one. It has a diner feel, with most standard American fare. They have a "Build Your Own Burger Bar", you can get shots of vanilla, cherry, or chocolate flavor in your cola, and they have the definitive appetizer menu in the Syracuse area. In the mood for alcohol? Try the mojito. I don't think it's a gay drink. Moooooo-heeeeeeeee-tooooooooo. Also, if you are allergic to nuts, stay away from the cookies. Bastards.

Now we come to the pinnacle of Syracuse dining. My very favorite, and probably most famous, restaurant in Syracuse.

Dinosaur BBQ – The most famous of all the Syracuse eateries. Without a doubt, the best BBQ you can get in all of Upstate New York. Syracuse is the original location and also the most colorful. You can easily see numerous bikers out front if the weather is nice. Enjoy the "Big Ass Pork Plate" which is their famous pulled pork, or sample the two best meals with a House Special of a quarter rack of ribs and a quarter chicken. The sides are also especially delicious and if salt potatoes are on the specials it is a must. They also have phenomenal corn bread. They play blues music, usually host live music in the evenings, and it will be the best meal you have in Syracuse guaranteed.


So there you have it. This is your complete guide to food and drink in Syracuse. There are some outstanding eating and drinking establishments, but my usuals are Faegan's Pub on the hill, Dinosaur, Tully's, or Spaghetti Warehouse for food, and I usually rotate when I drink downtown depending on who I am with. However, anything on this list you simply cannot go wrong with. If I didn't list it here, it is most likely not worth knowing about. Any further questions about the places in Syracuse, feel free to e-mail me at syracuseorange44@gmail.com. Good eating and go Orange!

El Saha photo credit: pitaelsaha.com
Jimmy John's: thedysh's photostream
Varsity Pizza; Chuck's: hendrickschapelchoiralumni.com
Blue Tusk: syracuselivemusic.com
Awful Al's: genx40.com

City: Tucson, Arizona
Foodie: Dom, The Beardown

Venue(s): Arizona Stadium, McKale Center, or Sancet Stadium (pictured)
Address: 1 National Championship Drive, Tucson, AZ 85721-0096
Team: Arizona Wildcats (NCAA)

Dom's Taste:

Tucson, Arizona.

Located 100 miles South of Phoenix and 60 miles north of the Mexican Border, it's best known for a few things:

• JoJo's Bar featured in the Beatles hit "Get Back" (sadly JoJo's no longer exists);
• The site of fictional Adams College in Revenge of the Nerds; and
• Being the Wild Wild West where many old Westerns were filmed including Tombstone, Three Amigos, The Outlaw Josey Wales, El Dorado, Rio Bravo, and of course the 90's classic Hey Dude.

These are things that I'm sure you could figure out by visiting Tucson's Wikipedia page or searching for Tucson, AZ on imdb.com. But to those of us lucky enough to live in the Old Pueblo, Tucson is known for an additional three things: Great Bars, Great Food, and the University of Arizona.

Everyone knows about Phoenix. Tucson is just like Phoenix, but with better bars, less traffic, and better weather.

That said, visitors to Tucson are here for one thing: sports. Whether it is for Golf on one of the amazing courses out here, College Sports, Minor League Baseball or Spring Training. So here's a fans' guide to food and fun in Tucson...

Stadium & Arena-Area Bars

When attending a game at U of A at Arizona Stadium, McKale Center, or Sancet Stadium, there are more than a few places a short jaunt from those facilities for those looking to grab a drink.

Trident Bar and Grill. Located on the corner of Speedway and Campbell, Trident has been a fan favorite for years. ESPN 1490 and Jody Oehler can be found broadcasting before and after basketball games from the corner booth, giving away tickets and prizes. Get there early. It's usually standing room only an hour before tip-off, and the place is packed during major fall gamedays like the upcoming Duel in the Desert. A great atmosphere, not to mention the bartender who goes by one name, "Bones," who has been featured in the Arizona Daily Star as one of Tucson's top Bartenders.


Championship Dining. Less than a mile South on Campbell (at the corner of 6th and Campbell) sits a relative newcomer to the Tucson bar scene. Championship is the home of the local sports radio station on gamedays (official home of the Wildats), and you can usually find the guys from 1290 AM hanging out on the patio. Pretty busy at night, the place to go if you want to spend a few extra bucks.

Dirtbags. Billed as a part of growing up, Dirtbags is located on Speedway between Cherry and Campbell and is always packed to the brim. I've never personally had anything to eat there, but I've had plenty to drink there. The line forms early, so get there earlier. If you're not in by 12:30, you probably aren't getting a drink.


University Blvd.

Running right up the gut and into the campus of the University of Arizona sits University Blvd. Shops abound on either side of the street and eclectic food choices are everywhere. If the weather is right stop by Gentle Ben's Brewery, Frog n' Firkin, or No Anchovies Pizza. On game days these patios are packed with rabid fans in red. In the Fall the party starts on Friday night as ESPN 1490's Oehler hosts Beardown Fridays with fun and food for the whole family.


U of A Campus

If you're not into the whole restaurant scene and you want to get into the meat of it, skip the bars and head right to the Campus. The Mall, a long patch of grass located in between Speedway and 6th on Campbell hosts fans hours before fall contests. Tailgating Heaven. The Pride of Arizona marches right through the Red Army on it's way to Arizona Stadium, playing loudly the whole way through. If you don't know anyone but are looking for a place to enjoy the fans and fanfare, just head over to the mall. If you're wearing red, chances are you will run into someone more than happy to share a drink or 20. If you're lucky enough to know someone near the school or happen to be an alumni of a Fraternity, there are plenty of games of Beirut and Flip Cup happening on patio's, porches, courtyards, and backyards surrounding the school.

After the game is over you can't miss with Trident or Dirtbag's.

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Now, if you're in town for the food, you can find anything your heart desires...

For great Chicago Hot Dogs, Polish Sausage, Italian Beef, Italian Sausage, or the Italian Combo (Italian Beef with an Italian Sausage jammed inside) stop by one of the local Luke's locations on Stone and Fort Lowell or Grant and Columbus.

If pizza is your thing there are 4 places to go in Tucson. Rocco's Little Chicago on Broadway and Plumer, Brooklyn Pizza on 4th Ave, and the aforementioned No Anchovies and Frog n' Firkin on University.

If you're in the mood for great sandwiches try Beyond Bread on Campbell for fancy sandwiches and great bread, Bison Wiches on 4th for the 6.50 Half sandwich and soup combo with chips (way too much food). There's a Cheeba Hut for "Toasted Subs" right next to Arizona Stadium, and a little further south a taste of the East Coast at East Coast Super Subs on Park and 9th. Get extra hot peppers on any sandwich you grab there. And of course there's the college town norms like Jimmy John's and Silver Mine Subs.

For a good burger Gentle Ben's and Trident are the best places near campus, and Lindy's packs a punch on 4th, a small hole in the wall where you can try to finish the 3 lb OMFG and get your picture on the wall and a free T-shirt.

For Mexican food there are plenty of amazing places: BK's on the Southside of Town, El Guerro Canelo off of Stone and Grant and El Taco Tote on the Eastside are just a sampling of some of the best authentic Mexican in town. You can't go wrong with a taco cart on the side of the road or one of the many Los Betos, Nico's, or Los Alazones (sp?) on Campbell and Grant.

Don't get me wrong, Tucson offers much more than the typical game day fare. For modern Italian head to the Northside and visit NoRth. For a good steak take your pick from McMahon's, Fleming's, or Sullivan's.

Of course if you want to avoid the occasional line or having to hear "Sweet Caroline" belted by drunk sorority girls you can always venture a little off the beaten path and head to the Golden Nugget or the Home Den off of 1st, the Buffet off of 4th Ave (open at 6am!!!!), the Red Garter Saloon (featured in a Jack Daniels Commercial) or the Bashful Bandit (any Night but Tuesday, College Night). Or if you really want something different head out East to The Home Plate: it's a bar and batting cages all in one.

In contrast, if you are looking for the bars with the guaranteed lines out the door, head to Maloney's or O'Malley's on 4th or Dirtbags around 11 PM.

City: College Park, MD
Foodie: Brien, East Coast Bias

Venue(s): Byrd Stadium, Comcast Center
Address: University of Maryland, College Park MD, 20742
Team: University of Maryland Football and Basketball


Brien's Taste:

Overcooked, overpriced, and underwhelming are the three first words that come to mind when contemplating Maryland's stadium fare. The school's Dining Services Department (which also runs the cafeterias) provides the majority of the food at both basketball and football games. The choices are uninspired, with minimal contributions from local cuisine.

The Boring

Hot dogs, hamburgers, popcorn left under a heat lamp for hours, stale nachos with congealing cheese-from-a-can, and chewy, often cold soft pretzels

The Poorly Executed

Invariably, I see the funnel cake sign above one of the concession stands and have a hopeful moment ("Funnel cake? I love funnel cake!") before remembering that the stadium funnel cake always ends up being crunchy, with none of the fluffy deliciousness that makes funnel cake wonderful.


The Unknowns

I haven't personally tried any of the more interesting (and that is a relative term) fare at Byrd or Comcast due to the exorbitant prices. I do, however, feel comfortable passing judgment on them anyway. Italian sausages, pulled pork sandwiches, and crab cakes are what pass for specialty foods at the Maryland concession stands. Crab cakes sound like a great idea, until you see the price, think about what goes on in the concession stand kitchens, and realize that crab cakes are not appropriate stadium food.

The Abomination Before God

Pepsi. Like the entire campus, Byrd and Comcast only serve Pepsi products. Oh, and no alcohol. At least the University has lifted a multi-year ban on soda cup lids instituted after some idiot pegged Carlos Boozer's mom in the head with a water bottle. The administration has now deemed the fan base mature enough to have cups of soda with a lids on them. Until someone throws another one.

The Attempt to Improve Town-Gown Relations

The concession stands at Byrd Stadium and Comcast Center are either manned by student groups or local sports teams who are fundraising. This sometimes works out well - anybody who has been to a game at Nats Park can tell you that the "professionals" hired by Centerplate to operate those concession stands have roughly the same demeanor as Adebisi from Oz. The "amateur" concessionaires at Byrd and Comcast are much more friendly, polite, and helpful. This sometimes doesn't work out so well when you have some 15-year-old's eyes bulging out of his head as he tries to manage a line 50-people deep at halftime at Byrd Stadium and you end up with Sierra Mist that was supposed to go to the guy two people in front of you instead of the Diet Pepsi you ordered (see abomination, supra).

The Saving Grace

If you attend a University of Maryland sporting event with an empty stomach, there is one item on the menu that will save you from financial ruin and gastric distress: Boardwalk Fries. Maryland's own take on French Fries (doused with apple cider vinegar and Old Bay for the best flavor) is the only redeeming quality to concessions and the University's sporting events. The fries are always hot, salty, and perfectly cooked. The vinegar softens them up a little bit, and the Old Bay makes the whole dish distinctively Maryland. This is the one thing you can't pass up at a Maryland event.


After the Game

Since you worked up an appetite cheering for the Terps (and bypassing the stadium fare), you should treat yourself to some of the finer foods College Park has to offer. Route 1 is packed with chain restaurants of varying quality (DP Dough and Chipotle are my recommendations), but no trip to College Park is complete without a milkshake from the University of Maryland Dairy (also available in the dining halls). The rumor around campus was that the University couldn't sell the ultra-creamy milkshakes off-campus because their high fat content violated FDA regulations. It may or may not be true, but you can't go wrong with a possibly-illegal milkshake. Also, you have to hit up Ratsie's (with a name like this, you can't go wrong) for some pitchers of Yuengling and calzones. Or, say hello to Maryland's own legend, Cluck-UPac at Cluck U. Go for the atomic wings, stay for the guy who looks like Tupac brought back from the dead who randomly sits in on Maryland classes just to get some free education.

Byrd Stadium photo credit: FansOnly/Sportsline

Comcast Center: Baltimore Sun
Wings: TradeSecretsBlog

City: Los Angeles, CA
Foodie: Adam Rose, All Things Trojan

Venue(s): Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles Sports Arena, Galen Center, and other USC athletic facilities. (Geography note: Somebody might tell you that the Staples Center and Dodger Stadium are "downtown" as well, but they're worlds apart from USC.)
Address: 3911 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037
Team(s): University of Southern California and a large number of special events, including the Angel City Classic and international soccer matches.

Adam's Taste:

It's hard to find decent fare inside USC's main venues and there's no real food "tradition" inside the gates. Same goes for on-campus eateries. If you're not tailgating (highly recommended), it's best to hit up the local establishments before and after. Remember that most are located immediately north of campus, which is a healthy walk from the Coliseum. At least you'll build up an appetite. Also, be warned ... the Coliseum banned alcohol a few years ago. No suds for you, unless you hoist 'em beforehand.

Avoid ducking into the generic fast food dumps that haunt the neighborhood. Sure, the greater USC area is considered a desert surrounded by the lush culinary landscape of Los Angeles (unless you ARE a lush, in which case greasy is good), but you can always find a tasty oasis.

Campus classics:

All these venues are actually just off campus. Any USC alumnus who can't describe them probably went to the University of South Carolina by mistake.

901 Bar and Grill

Arguably the epicenter of USC nightlife, the Nine-Oh (as it's better known) is a popular hangout for the school's undergraduate population. It's located at the east end of Frat Row (28th Street), which is responsible for most of the evening clientele. During the day, in addition to a full bar, they serve traditional American fare. The pizza has won awards at local food festivals. Older Trojans won't recognize the place since a renovation over the summer of 2007, when it was transformed from a dirty dive bar into a true local's spot. During games, crowds of all ages can be found wearing beer soaked t-shirts or slacks and ties, so come as you are.

29th Street Cafe

Located on the west end of Frat Row, this pleasant cafe is a good place to bring the family and still enjoy a nice beer on tap. A diverse and hearty menu is sure to please all comers, and they feature indoor and outdoor seating. If you're visiting from a region where they don't serve sweet potato fries, make sure to try them out.

Chanos

This place defines the word "grub." A glorified taco stand, Chanos is considered by some to be the ultimate in college dining. Serving up excellent carne asada at a price that can't be beat, they have extended hours and are good for a snack or meal before, after, or looooong after the game. For those in need of some serious grease, try the Special Quesadilla, featuring grilled onions, peppers, and pastrami. A vocal group of Trojans believes that Chanos pales in comparison to a strip-mall restaurant across the street called La Taquiza. Both are good, but Chanos has longer hours and is the one true local legend.

Cultural experience:

These spots are a little more of a hike, but offer a nice change of pace.

Bacaro

Only open for a couple years, this wine bar blends sophistication with comfort food. You won't find anywhere else around campus to enjoy a fine Italian wine along with a plate of sausage. Changing specials and various messages can be found scribbled in chalk on the wall. If you want to impress a date or feel a little more cultured, you can't miss here.

La Barca

Legendary around USC for their $2 margarita happy hour on Tuesdays, this is also a good place to sit down and enjoy some good Mexican food with a large group of friends. Expect a wait on evenings and when the Trojans play in the Coliseum.

Manas

Overlooked by many at USC, Manas boasts authentic Indian cuisine. The school enrolls more foreign students than any other American university, and a large number of them miss the home cooking in India. Manas is their answer, and a treat for anybody who can find it hiding on the corner of Hoover and 29th Street.

Street Meat:

Typically unlicensed, inevitably delicious. Eat at your own risk.

Bacon wrapped hot dogs

If you need a zillion calories of savory, meaty joy on a grease-slogged bun, take a deep whiff and wander towards this irresistible smell. Served off of street carts during games and frequently chased away by local law enforcement, you may be gambling with your health. You may also experience the most delicious thing ever.


Taco Trucks

Manhattan has the slice. Philly has the cheesesteak. Los Angeles has the taco truck. It's holy grail of Los Angeles food. Most of them have regular hours and locations, but they're subject to change like the bacon wrapped hot dog carts. Local permit enforcement has led to a "carne asada is not a crime" rallying cry. Unfortunately, they can be really hard to find on game day. If you see a "roach coach" while you're in town, odds are it's different from the kind you're used to. With an emphasis on Mexican food, it's the quintessential Los Angeles chow.

Colosseum & 901 photo credit: LA Times Blogs
Bacon Hot Dogs: jslander's photostream
Taco Truck: joepyrek's photostream