Saturday marks the first away football game and conference game of the season. Since not all students can take the hike to Winston-Salem or watch the game on ESPNU, N.C. State fans must find another way to watch the game and cheer on the Pack. In preparation for the big game, here are some of Raleigh’s best hot spots to watch the Pack take on the Demon Deacons.
Sammy’s Tap and Grill
Located in the heart of campus living, Sammy’s Tap and Grill specifically caters to N.C. State students. A clear favorite of State students past and present, Sammy’s provides all the essentials needed to cheer on the Wolfpack: the game, your friends, cold draft beer and deliciously unhealthy food. Easily known as the best place to watch the Pack, it’s important to get there early to ensure you get a table. Tardiness will not inhibit your viewing pleasure; Sammy’s has four satellites and over 25 televisions with indoor and outdoor seating. Just don’t show up wearing anything but your favorite State attire.
East Village Grill and Bar
Coming in at a close second, East Village has a more relaxed down-to-earth atmosphere. With a classic menu, tailgate food and drink specials, friendly prices, and several TVs, East Village is a great place to watch the game. With a smaller space than Sammy’s, it is vital to come early to reserve a seat near a TV if you plan on catching every Wolfpack first down. Seating is available on the deck or tables inside and at the bar.
Carolina Ale House
Slightly further away, the Carolina Ale House is known for its food, sports and fun. If bar food isn’t your style, Carolina Ale House has you covered with their extensive menu to satisfy all cravings. The Ale House takes it one step further with its wide selection of ales, recognized as one of the best in the market. Geared towards a slightly older crowd, fans are sure to run into some loyal Wolfpack alumni. The Ale House has two large screens and 46 TVs, so it’s impossible to have a bad seat. Also, Carolina Ale House features pool tables, video games, pinball machines and foosball tables—perfect for time-outs and breaks in play.
Village Draft House
With great burgers and sandwiches, the Village Draft House is another great place to catch the game. Village Draft House has a relaxed atmosphere, with 99 beers on tap, a variety of seating options and a large number of flat screen TVs throughout the place. The Draft House isn’t the most popular location, yet with limited tables in the non-smoking section and occasionally slow service, it may be difficult to score a seat. If you do, you’ll be able to enjoy good conversation as you watch the Pack.
Tobacco Road
If you’re looking for something with a little class and sophistication, and distance is not an issue, then Tobacco Road Sports Café is the place to be on game day. The name, Tobacco Road, in fact refers to the most recognized college sports rivalries in the country — the ACC. With the first ACC football games of the season Saturday, Tobacco Road is sure to be bustling. While serving high-quality food and wall-to-wall television screens, Tobacco Road is proud to host 99.9 “The Fan” live sports radio.
