Pre-Game Eats: Your Guide to the Best Bites Near Ball Arena

Where to Eat and Drink Before Every Nuggets and Avs Game at Ball Arena

Attending a Denver Nuggets or Colorado Avalanche game at Ball Arena is an experience filled with excitement, and this season kicks off with some extra juice. The Avs open their season at home Sept. 30, 2026 against the Kings, fresh off locking up Cale Makar to a record eight-year, $163.2 million extension that makes him the highest-paid player in NHL history. The Nuggets tip off their home slate Oct. 24, 2026 against New Orleans. However, the rush to fit in dinner while ensuring you arrive on time for player walkouts can be stressful. That's why we've compiled a list of our favorite spots in Denver to grab a bite or enjoy a drink before cheering on your favorite Mile High sports teams. With over 60 games under my belt at Ball Arena, trust me when I say skipping dinner or drinks beforehand might lead to overpriced or mediocre options inside the arena.

Illegal Pete's - Keep it Simple, Silly

For a quintessential Denver pre-game experience, Illegal Pete's tops the list. Founded right here in Colorado, this local gem boasts 14 locations across the state, including one conveniently situated on 16th Street Mall, just an 8-minute walk from Ball Arena. With a counter-style setup reminiscent of Chipotle but offering far tastier fare, Illegal Pete's serves up some of the best nachos in Denver. Don't miss out on their 'Sound Check' promotion, which treats customers headed to any local event with a free drink alongside their entree purchase. Whether you opt for a potent margarita or a local brew, remember to show appreciation to the bartenders who keep the vibe alive.

ReinHaus - A Beer Lover's Dream

If you're a fan of German beer and hearty fare, ReinHaus is your go-to spot. Located just 7 minutes from the arena on Market Street, this establishment offers an extensive selection of brews, including the iconic boot of hefeweizen. Pair your beer with traditional German dishes like brats and sauerkraut for a truly immersive pre-game experience. Despite its popularity, you can still grab a drink even when it's crowded, making it an ideal stop before heading to the game.

Bao Brewhouse - Timely and Trendy Asian Fusion

For those craving Asian flavors before the game, Bao Brewhouse delivers a trendy pre-game bite just a street south of ReinHaus. With the convenience of ordering via QR code, you can ensure a timely dining experience without compromising on quality. From exquisite cocktails to Asian beers and a diverse menu featuring potstickers, noodle and rice dishes, and of course, bao, there's something for every palate. Plus, it's only an 8-minute walk to the arena, making it a convenient choice for pre-game indulgence.

Brooklyn's - For the Terminally Late (and Hungry)

Located within close proximity to the arena, Brooklyn's offers a classic sports bar experience with two full bars and a lively atmosphere. Despite the crowds, you can still snag a drink at the bar or enjoy the outdoor patio on pleasant evenings. Indulge in their selection of canned beers and seltzers before heading inside to avoid the steep prices of drinks at Ball Arena. With friendly staff and a menu featuring burgers named after Colorado sports teams, Brooklyn's is a reliable option for a quick pre-game meal.

Fogo de Chao - Fancy Steakhouse, Not-So-Fancy Happy Hour

Yes, Fogo de Chao is known for extravagant, expensive, all you can eat meat spreads, and no, that's not what this is about. Tucked into LoDo at 1513 Wynkoop Street, just across the South Platte from Ball Arena, Fogo runs happy hour at Bar Fogo all day, every day. That means $5 to $6 beers, $8 South American wines, $10 Brazilian-inspired cocktails, and $6 bar bites, all without setting foot near the churrasco line. Get comfortable, because it's entirely possible to sit down at Bar Fogo before puck drop or tip-off and still be there well into the first period or quarter. But don't worry, you can be in your seats at Ball Arena in 15 minutes or less if there's no lines getting into the stadium. Don't skip the Picanha Burger, in-house ground and the meat you were craving walking into a steakhouse!

Do You Have to Leave the Arena at All? - Not Anymore

If you'd rather skip the pregame stops altogether, that's a lot less painful than it used to be. Ball Arena rolled out a fan value menu after enough complaints piled up: hot dogs, jumbo pretzels, popcorn, nachos, fries, and candy are all $5, available at select stands on every level, including near sections 112 and 319. Twenty ounce domestic drafts (Coors, Coors Light, Michelob Ultra, and Avalanche Ale) run $10, down from $14. Nobody's calling it gourmet, and the $5 stands aren't hard to find but they aren't everywhere either, so budget a few extra minutes to track one down.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of your pre-game experience before cheering on the Avs or Nuggets. If you have any other recommendations, feel free to share them in the comments below. We love hearing from fellow fans!

Disclaimer: This article was written by ColoradBro and expresses their own opinions. Fans are advised to check current promotions and offerings at the mentioned establishments.