Watching The Stanley Cup Finals
Of the Nashville Predators and Pittsburgh Penguins, who will lift Lord Stanley’s trophy at the end of the Stanley Cup Finals? Fans of these two teams may choose to watch the action from somewhere other than their couch. But where should you go to take in the game with fellow fans?
Here are some of the best recommendations for each of the two cities, helping to ensure you’ll find a perfect spot to watch the last bit of hockey before “offseason” is muttered. From local bars to barbeque joints and quaint gastropubs, keep reading to see where you should go – especially if you can’t get a ticket to the game!
Nashville, Home of the Nashville Predators
Having made the playoffs nine of their 18 seasons as an NHL franchise, the Nashville Predators will take their first trip to the Stanley Cup Finals this year. They managed to take a fourth-place regular season finish and make it past the Chicago Blackhawks, the St. Louis Blues, and the Anaheim Ducks on their quest for the cup. Here are a couple of great places to watch this underdog team play in Nashville.
Benchmark Bar & Grill
Great drink deals, delicious food, and an official watch location? The Benchmark Bar and Grill in downtown Nashville checks off all the boxes when it comes to being a preferred venue. They are also known for their live music as well.
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Fleet Street Pub
There’s actually a British pub that’s a great place to watch hockey? That’s right – even though the Fleet Street Pub is typically the go-to spot for soccer, they’re another official watch location to #StandWithUs and cheer on the Predators! Here you’ll be able to enjoy your hockey with typical English pub food choices like bangers and mash, fish and chips, and savory pies.
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Rippy’s Bar & Grill
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Nashville is known for country music and barbecue, so look no further than Rippy’s if you want a real Southern experience. Located right near the Bridgestone Arena, this place will be hopping on game day! Expect a loud crowd and a ton of delicious smoked meats if you choose Rippy’s to be your home during the Stanley Cup Finals.
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Pittsburgh, Home of the Pittsburgh Penguins
Been there, done that, got the T-shirt … but it doesn’t get old, does it, Pens fans? Their second trip to the Stanley Cup Finals in two years – don’t forget, the Penguins won it all last year – has citizens of the Steel City thinking about the “D” word: Dynasty. Such an amazing team deserves a great location to cheer.
The Souper Bowl
Located right near PPG Paints Arena, The Souper Bowl is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in over 250 reviews. Here you’ll find an army of black-and-gold clad Penguins fans ready to cheer the team on to another victory. There’s pub food like burgers and an ample beverage selection that should make any die-hard fan happy!
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Bigham Tavern
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With a special game day menu for when the Penguins take the ice, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Bigham Tavern! Previous specials have included a mac and cheese with a Philly cheesesteak filling. So not only will you get a chance to take in the game, but also you’ll go home with a full stomach – and maybe some leftovers.
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Excuses Bar & Grill
You’ll find friendly faces and quite the crowd, according to Penguins fans who’ve been to the Excuses Bar & Grill when a game is taking place. Die-hard Penguins fans frequent this place. You couldn’t find a better company to take in a game if you tried. Some citizens of Pittsburgh even think they have the best chicken wings in the city!
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Cool Champions
Don’t be left out in the cold when you go to watch the Stanley Cup Finals with your fellow Penguin or Predators fans, wherever you choose to watch the series. Make sure you’re representing your team with the best officially licensed NHL merchandise and apparel, available right now from Fanatics.