The roar of the crowd, the adrenaline pumping through your veins as the home team scores, the vibrant energy of a live concert – these are the sensations that draw us to Enmarket Arena. But beyond the spectacle of the event itself, another experience awaits, one that tantalizes the taste buds and elevates your overall visit. Enmarket Arena, a cornerstone of entertainment in Savannah, offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene, transforming a simple outing into a culinary adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, a concert enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun night out, exploring the food at Enmarket Arena is an absolute must. This guide will navigate you through the arena’s gastronomic landscape, highlighting the best bites, hidden gems, and essential tips to ensure your next visit is not only entertaining but also incredibly satisfying.
Exploring the Heart of Arena Cuisine
The concession stands are the reliable stalwarts of any arena, and Enmarket Arena is no exception. Here, you’ll find the classic comfort foods that define the arena experience: juicy hot dogs, grilled hamburgers, crispy popcorn, cheesy nachos dripping with toppings, and soft pretzels glistening with salt. These are the quintessential fuel for cheering on your team or singing along to your favorite artist. While the quality and pricing are fairly standard for an arena setting, Enmarket Arena sometimes elevates the traditional fare with unique and locally-inspired twists.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a gourmet hot dog, not just topped with mustard and ketchup, but adorned with locally-sourced pickled onions, a tangy slaw made with Georgia peaches, or even a spicy Creole mustard that pays homage to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Picture cheesy nachos, not just piled high with shredded cheddar, but featuring pulled pork slow-smoked with pecan wood, a signature of Savannah-style BBQ, or shrimp caught fresh off the Georgia coast.
These subtle yet significant enhancements transform the humble concession stand staples into something truly special, offering a taste of the local culture and providing a more memorable culinary experience. While the prices might be a bit higher than you’d find outside the arena, the convenience and the added touch of local flavor make it a worthwhile indulgence.
A Culinary Journey: Discovering Specialty Food Vendors
Beyond the reliable concessions, Enmarket Arena boasts a vibrant array of specialty food vendors, each offering a unique culinary perspective and expanding the dining options available to attendees. Forget the limited options of arenas past; here, you can embark on a genuine food journey without ever leaving the building.
Perhaps you’re craving a slice of authentic New York-style pizza, with a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and generous toppings. Or maybe you’re in the mood for the vibrant flavors of Mexico, with freshly made tacos overflowing with marinated carne asada, spicy salsa, and cool guacamole. The aroma of slow-cooked BBQ ribs might tempt you, their smoky sweetness filling the air and promising a tender, fall-off-the-bone experience. And of course, being in Savannah, the option of fresh seafood is a must, with vendors offering everything from crispy fried shrimp baskets to flavorful crab cakes showcasing the bounty of the Atlantic.
Many of these vendors are local businesses, adding a genuine sense of community and supporting the thriving culinary scene of Savannah. By featuring these local gems, Enmarket Arena not only provides delicious food options but also promotes the area’s unique culinary identity.
It’s worth taking a lap around the arena before settling on a vendor, as the selection can vary depending on the event. Be sure to check out the vendor menus posted nearby, read online reviews if available, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the ingredients and preparation methods. Prices can range depending on the vendor and the dish, so be sure to factor that into your decision-making.
Elevated Dining: Catering and Premium Experiences
For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Enmarket Arena offers catering options for suite holders and dedicated restaurant or bar areas, providing a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the main concourse.
If you’re fortunate enough to be enjoying an event from a suite, you’ll have access to a curated catering menu, offering a variety of options to suit your tastes and preferences. From elegant buffets featuring carving stations and gourmet salads to plated meals showcasing seasonal ingredients and sophisticated flavors, the suite catering options are designed to impress. Many menus offer specialized selections for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten intolerances, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a delicious and worry-free dining experience.
For attendees without suite access, Enmarket Arena may also feature dedicated restaurant or bar areas. These spaces typically offer a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere than the main concourse, with table service, a wider selection of food and drinks, and a chance to unwind and socialize. Here, you might find signature cocktails crafted with local spirits, a selection of craft beers from regional breweries, and a menu featuring elevated versions of classic arena fare, as well as more sophisticated dishes. Dining in these areas can be a welcome change of pace from the grab-and-go options of the concession stands, providing a more leisurely and enjoyable dining experience.
Catering to All: Dietary Considerations and Accessibility
Enmarket Arena recognizes that attendees have diverse dietary needs and preferences, and strives to provide options that cater to a wide range of requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
Finding vegetarian options is generally easier, with vendors offering veggie burgers, salads, and sides like french fries and onion rings. Vegan options may require a bit more searching, but some vendors offer plant-based alternatives like vegan tacos, veggie wraps, or even vegan pizza with dairy-free cheese. Gluten-free choices may include salads without croutons, grilled chicken or fish, and gluten-free snacks like popcorn and fruit.
The arena also strives to be accessible to all attendees, with accessible seating areas, ramps, and elevators. Food vendors are typically located in accessible areas, and staff members are generally willing to assist guests with disabilities. It’s advisable to check with specific vendors about allergy information and ingredient lists to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Maximizing Your Culinary Experience: Tips and Recommendations
To make the most of your food experience at Enmarket Arena, consider these tips and recommendations:
For those on a budget, stick to the classic concession stand offerings, such as hot dogs, popcorn, and pretzels. These are typically the most affordable options and can still provide a satisfying meal. For a slightly more indulgent experience, consider splitting a larger item like nachos with a friend.
When it comes to must-try items, it depends on your personal preferences. But if you’re a fan of local flavors, be sure to try any dishes featuring Savannah-style BBQ, fresh seafood, or local produce. Don’t be afraid to ask vendors for recommendations, as they can often point you towards their most popular and delicious items.
To avoid long lines at the food vendors, consider arriving early, before the crowds start to build. You can also try ordering food online through the arena’s app, if available, which can save you time and allow you to skip the lines. During intermissions or breaks in the event, lines tend to be the longest, so try to grab a snack or drink before the event starts or during less popular times.
For families attending events with children, consider options like pizza, chicken tenders, and french fries. These are typically kid-friendly favorites and can be easily shared. Many vendors also offer smaller portions or kids’ meals, which can be a more affordable and manageable option.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Food at Enmarket Arena
Enmarket Arena has already made significant strides in improving its food offerings, but there’s always room for improvement. Adding even more local vendors would further enhance the arena’s culinary identity and provide attendees with a wider range of options. Expanding dietary options to include more vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices would cater to a broader audience and ensure that everyone can find something to enjoy.
Collaborations with other local restaurants could bring even more diverse and exciting culinary experiences to the arena. Imagine a pop-up restaurant featuring a popular Savannah eatery, or a themed food event showcasing the region’s best chefs.
The future of food at Enmarket Arena is bright, with the potential for even more delicious and innovative offerings. As the arena continues to grow and evolve, its food scene will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in enhancing the overall event experience.
A Culinary Curtain Call
Enmarket Arena isn’t just a place to watch a game or a concert; it’s a place to indulge in a diverse and satisfying food experience. From the classic concession stand staples to the innovative creations of local vendors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you attend an event at Enmarket Arena, be sure to explore the culinary landscape and discover your own hidden gems. Share your experiences on social media and let others know about your favorite bites. Enmarket Arena is committed to providing a memorable experience, and the food is an integral part of that. Come hungry, leave happy, and remember – the best events are always better with great food. Bon appétit!
