A major part of the college football experience is, undoubtedly, the food. Last season, we saw empty tailgating areas, restaurants and stadiums across the country. As things begin to return to a semblance of normalcy, it’s time to take a look around the SEC at some of the greatest restaurant experiences in the conference.
Shakespeare’s Pizza (Columbia, MO)
It’s all about location (1 mile from the stadium in Columbia’s beautiful downtown district) and atmosphere. Hundreds of fans flock to Shakespeare’s each game day to indulge in food, fun and beer. Oh, and to quote the restaurant itself “it’s all about the pizza, stupid.”
5 Bar (Athens, GA)
5 Bar is more on the upscale side although simplicity is their motto! Five dinners, five wines and five signature coctails make ordering easy and the atmosphere is always outstanding.
City Grocery (Oxford, MS)
Located on Oxford’s historic town square, City Grocery is a very popular spot for football weekend dining. So much so that you might see someone like Archie Manning enjoying shrimp and grits there before a big Ole Miss game. It’s ALWAYS busy at CG so heed some advice and make a reservation in advance!
The Dixie Chicken (College Station, TX)
If you’re looking for an awesome saloon-like Texas experience and some great hospitality, you MUST visit the Dixie Chicken the next time you’re in College Station. Simple, scrumptious burgers and live rattlesnakes behind the pool tables, you’ll never forget this place!
The Hound (Auburn, AL)
Looking for a tremendous breakfast spot or out-of-this-world country fried steak before a big Auburn game? The Hound has you covered. The atmosphere reminds one of a warm hunting lodge, setting you at ease as you chow down and guzzle their signature bourbons.
The Row Kitchen and Pub (Nashville, TN)
If you’re in Nashville for a Vanderbilt game, odds are you aren’t a Vandy fan so you want a taste of Nashville as a visiting fan. You’re going to have fun anywhere you go on Broadway St. but next time give the Row a try. It’s super close to the stadium and you can enjoy live music while eating your pre-game meal.
Hugo’s (Fayetteville, AR)
Hugo’s is classic Fayetteville with its funky basement vibe supplying burgers & casual American food with a great beer selection.
Calhoun’s on the River (Knoxville, TN)
If you can’t be a part of the infamous Vol Navy, you might try Calhoun’s on the River. For over 30 years they’ve been serving up family-style cuisine with a killer view to boot.
Moe’s Original BBQ (Starkville, MS)
Located in the heart of Downtown Starkville, Moe’s provides a very laid back, casual atmosphere during the day and a great high energy bar scene at night. Located just a mile-and-a-half from Davis Wade Stadium, you can grab a southern-style taste of Starkvegas before pulling out your cowbell for the game.
The Swamp Restaurant (Gainesville, FL)
The Swamp sadly closed after 25 years but vowed to re-open in 2022! The original location saw throngs of coeds make their way through its doors every football Saturday. With its close proximity to the larger Swamp, no visit to Gainesville is complete without checking this place out and we can’t wait to see the new location!
The Chimes (Baton Rouge, LA)
If you find yourself without an LSU tailgate to attend, I highly recommend the Chimes. With a location just .8 miles from Tiger Stadium, you can enjoy wonderful southern-style dining and a massive selection of beers before making your way into Death Valley.
Merrick Inn (Lexington ,KY)
An elegant southern manor house complete with a big covered patio. This is not exactly a quick bar food campus favorite type, but well worth the experience when visiting the Blue Grass state.
Rama Jama (Tuscaloosa, AL)
A must visit for those interested in Alabama football history, Rama Jama has a plethora of memorabilia that allows you to soak in the atmosphere during a game weekend.
Hunter Gatherer Brewery and Alehouse (Columbia, SC)
This is just a really cool open-air facility that allows one to take in a fantastic local establishment. The pizza is fantastic and the beer options will keep you satisfied all the way up until kickoff in Columbia!
