Enjoy: Game Day in Evanston
Photo Credit: Becca Heuer
Football season is here, and there's no better way to show your Wildcat pride than by diving into the full game-day experience! Whether you're looking to grab a bite, watch the game with friends, or tailgate in style, Evanston has plenty of options for Northwestern students and football fans. Here are some top spots to hit up for your next football outing:
Pre-Game Breakfast or Brunch Spots
Start your game day right with a good meal with friends. If you’re hoping to go off-campus, here are a few favorite spots that will set you up for success:
Ovo Frito | Maple Foster: Perfect for early risers, Ovo Frito starts serving up scrambles at 7 AM.
Blind Faith Café | Main Dempster: For a more eclectic vibe, try Blind Faith Café. They specialize in vegetarian and vegan options, perfect if you're looking for a lighter but satisfying pre-game brunch.
Stacked & Folded | Noyes: Steps away from campus, you’ll have entered Wildcat Country. Stacked & Folded has tons of TVs to watch the game and delicious food.
Where to Watch the Game
If you’re not making it into the stadium, there are a few fantastic spots nearby to catch all the action on the big screen:
Buffalo Joe's | Downtown: The TVs are plentiful, and the classic sports bar vibe adds to the excitement. Grab some cheese fries, wings, or their famous waffle fries. Also, perfect for catering if you plan to watch the game at home.
Double Clutch Brewing | Ashland Arts: Come for the game, stay for the award-winning craft beer. There is always something going on at Double Clutch. Grab a bite from their delicious menu or start your own tasting of their beers while you watch the game.
Bluestone | Central Street: Tucked away on Central Street, Bluestone brings the cozy game-day atmosphere along with all of the treats that make game-day great. Bring tons of friends so you can split the loaded nachos, smoked chicken wings, and cheese curds. Football season is short, it’s time to indulge.
Post-Game Eats
Whether you’re celebrating a win or comforting yourself after a tough game, Evanston has plenty of late-night eats to satisfy any craving:
Taco Diablo & Five & Dime | Downtown: Perfect for a post-game bite, Taco Diablo has a modern vibe and serves up delicious tacos with creative twists. Folks love the fresh food! Located on the rooftop above Taco Diablo, Five & Dime is a fantastic spot for a more upscale post-game experience. They offer creative cocktails and bar bites, with a great view of the Evanston skyline.
Peckish Pig | Howard: Venture past Downtown to Howard and you’ll find a few amazing spots. Peckish Pigs might be one of our favorites for their amazing patio space.
Soul & Smoke | Ashland Arts: Enjoy award-winning barbecue and a newly renovated space. We love to select a few different cuts of meats and sides and share with friends.
Apparel
Campus Gear | Downtown: You can grab Northwestern gear on campus, at your local Target, or at nationwide shops like Hollister and Abercrombie. However, we think the best-kept secret are shops like Campus Gear on Sherman Avenue where you can stock up in person right before game day.
Whether you’re a die-hard Wildcats fan or just looking to enjoy the atmosphere, there are so many ways to make the most of your game-day experience.
For more game day information, check out resources on Northwestern Now.
