3 New Options To Pregame Before Lightning Games
Lightning fans should get pumped about some new options for pre-game festivities this season. The Tampa Bay Lightning just announced a new promotion they are running for the rest of…
Lightning fans should get pumped about some new options for pre-game festivities this season. The Tampa Bay Lightning just announced a new promotion they are running for the rest of the season. On top of that, there's a new sports bar opening the first weekend of December (this Saturday). This spot will be the new go-to spot for pregame beers. Here are 3 new pregame options for Lightning games
Here are the 3 new pregame options for Lightning games
If you're heading to a home game this season, make sure to take some time to hang out in Thunder Alley for a new discount. The official Tampa Bay Lightning pregame offers $4 off 16oz beers and $2 off sodas in the plaza two hours before puck drop. Plus, you could hang out at the Cigar City taproom lounge and get some snacks before heading into the arena.
Your other option for pregame festivities for Lightning games is across the street on Channelside at The Yard House. Tampa locals remember the old Ferg's that used to be in that lot across the arena. It was the perfect spot to hang out before or after games, or if you couldn't get a ticket. The Yard House will be a much bigger, and hopefully better version of that. They offer 130 different beers on tap and have a tasty American-style menu. Happy hour is from 3-6 pm and they are open till midnight, making it the perfect place for a pre or post-game beer.

The newest Location of Yard House to open December 2023 on Water Street.
Your last new option to check out before heading into Amalie is a little more of a walk but totally worth it! Top Shelf Lounge is a hockey/sports themed bar that has great game day specials for Lightning fans! Head down there for happy hour from 4-7pm or take advantage of game day specials. They offer $5 Liquid Lightning Shots, $5 Slap Shots, $5 Select Draft Beers, $25 Domestic Beer Buckets, $30 Seltzer/Import Buckets, $2 off Wines by the glass, and $10 Pork or Chicken Nachos. Check them out at 401 E. Jackson St. Ste 101, Tampa.
7 Great Places To Eat Near Amalie Arena
Heading to a Lightning game this season or going to see a show at Amalie Arena? Here are 7 great places to eat that's near Amalie Arena. All of these locations are within walking distance, but if you don't feel like walking, hop on the TECO street car or use an electric scooter. Whether you're in the mood for some bar bites or want to sit down and have a nice dinner, here are our recommendations. Depending on the event, you may want to get to these places a little earlier (around 5p) or make a reservation to secure your spot!
Downtown Tampa is constantly changing. It seems like each week there's a new trendy restaurant that we must try! Of course, there are the staple Tampa restaurants like Hattricks. There are also many options at Sparkman Wharf, but we narrowed that down to our favorite spot. If all else fails, you can always go to the Publix on Channelside Dr for a pub sub. This Publix location even has a bar and happy hour! Have you been to any of these places yet? Let us know your favorite on social media!
Honorary Mention
It would be silly for us not to include the new Yard House in this list. The new trendy restaurant recently opened directly across the street from Amalie Arena (where the old Ferg's Live used to be). They have 130 beers on tap and some really tasty appetizers for a pregame snack. But beware, unless you make a reservation or get there before 4 pm, you likely won't find a seat before your event. You should also know that they do not run their happy hour specials on event days. So no half-off apps and discounted beer on game/concert days.
Here are our favorite 7 places to eat near Amalie Arena:
Yeoman's
Yeoman's is our favorite pregame spot for any Lightning game. Their food is delicious and comes in huge portions! It does get pretty busy here on game days, so get there early to claim a spot.
Jotoro/Sparkman Wharf
Like we said earlier, there are so many options to choose form at Sparkman Wharf. If you're in a rush before the game, head to JoDog for a quick snack. If you have the time, go into Jotoro for some delicious tacos and margaritas.
Jackson's Bistro
It's a little bit of further walk, but the food and views are totally worth it!
Columbia Cafe
This Columbia Cafe location is the most convienent for any Lightning or concert pre-game. Stop across Water Street for a bite and some fresh-mixed sangria at the Columbia Cafe at the Tampa Bay History Center.
Wagamama
Water St has completely transformed and is now home to so many great foodie spots! Wagamama is one of our favorites with the tastiest ramen and cocktails!
Harpoon Harry's
Located by the convention center, Harpoon Harry's a delicious seafood spot perfect for hanging out on Lightning game days.
The Pearl On Water St
For a more elegant and elevated pre-game or pre-show meal, head to one of Tampa's best restaurant additions The Pearl on Water St. They have the best cocktails and tasty appetizers to share!