The city of Houston will be buzzing over the next week as the NFL season culminates inside NRG Stadium, the site of Super Bowl LI's showdown between the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons. After all, an estimated 138,000 people are expected to visit the city for the Big Game next month.
For those looking to experience the best of Houston's underrated food and drink scene in the least amount of time before kickoff, consider one of these unique spots.
The Flying Saucer
Just a 20-minute drive from NRG Stadium, the Houston Flying Saucer on Main Street is a must-visit when in Houston and is ideal for a pregame happy hour, or two. Boasting more than 200 different brews, there's guaranteed to be a beer to suit your taste buds.
The food menu won't disappoint either, with just about every item pairing perfectly with a cold beer, including a rotating artisanal meat and cheese board and cheese-smothered toasted pretzels.
Axelrad Beer Garden
Midtown is where you'll stumble upon Axelrad Beer Garden, home to Houston's only hammock grove as well as delicious beer, wine and live music.
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When, not if you get hungry, Luigi's Pizzeria is located right next door and guests are welcome to eat their pizza while they enjoy beverages in the beer garden. Axelrad offers a diverse beer menu that's highlighted by brews from some top-notch local breweries, including 8th Wonder Brewing Company and Town in City Brewing.
McIntyre's
Located roughly 25 minutes north of NRG Stadium in the Houston Heights, McIntyre's Spirits and Friends is a no-brainer if you're looking to unwind in the Bayou City. This place even offers adult swings.
The menu features an extensive list of draft beers, can beers and bottle beers as well as wine and a handful of signature cocktails. "The McIntyre" combines New Amsterdam Vodka with lemonade and hard cider.
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If you're heading here on an empty stomach, don't worry, because this bar boasts an impressive food truck lineup that ensures guests have something to eat all seven days of the week.
The New Potato
A lively neighborhood bar open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, The New Potato is worth a visit if you're into a relaxing atmosphere, flavorful craft beers, pizza and good music. This place hasn't been around for long, but it's already developed quite the following. It's dog-friendly and features a spacious outdoor patio.
The best part? On Super Bowl Sunday The New Potato will be serving up smoked meats and sides from Palomo Pit BBQ.
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