Best Restaurants Near Ball Arena
Where to eat before Nuggets games, Avalanche hockey, and concerts at Ball Arena. Quick bites and sit-down options 5-15 minutes from the venue.
8
Restaurants
5 min
Closest
$-$$$
Price Range
LoDo
Best Area
Ball Arena (formerly Pepsi Center) hosts over 200 events a year — Nuggets basketball, Avalanche hockey, major concerts, and everything in between. Located on the western edge of downtown Denver near Auraria, the venue is surrounded by some of the city's best dining neighborhoods.
Whether you need a fast slice before tip-off or a proper pre-game dinner with the group, these eight restaurants deliver. We've split them into quick bites (under 30 minutes in and out) and sit-down spots (plan for 60-90 minutes).
Quick Bites Before the Game
In and out in 30 minutes or less. Grab food and get to the arena.
Tap & Burger
Fast, high-quality burgers and craft beer taps. The closest solid food option to Ball Arena. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite when you're running late to tip-off.
Brooklyn's Finest Pizza
New York-style slices that are quick and satisfying. Grab two slices and a drink, and you'll still make warm-ups. Cash-friendly, no-frills, and exactly what you need before a game.
Yard House
Over 100 beers on tap and a massive menu of American favorites. A reliable pre-game gathering spot on 16th Street with enough variety to please any group.
The Lobby
Craft cocktails and shareable small plates in a stylish setting. When you want something more than bar food but don't have time for a full dinner. Great happy hour specials.
Sit-Down Pre-Game Dinner
Arrive 90+ minutes early and enjoy a proper meal. All within a 15-minute walk of Ball Arena.
Ale House at Amato's
A Denver institution with craft beers and hearty American fare. Spacious patio, reliable food, and an energetic game-day atmosphere. Popular with locals heading to Ball Arena.
Stoney's Bar & Grill
One of LoDo's most popular sports bars. Big screens everywhere, solid bar food, and a crowd that's already buzzing with pre-game energy. Expect a lively scene on event nights.
Denver ChopHouse & Brewery
A Denver classic near Union Station. House-brewed beers and thick-cut steaks in a grand, lodge-style dining room. The upscale pre-game dinner choice for special occasions.
Osteria Marco
Handmade salumi, wood-fired pizza, and house-made pasta on Larimer Square. A slightly longer walk, but worth it for a proper Italian dinner before the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I eat before a Ball Arena event?
For sit-down restaurants, plan to finish 60-90 minutes before the event. LoDo restaurants like Denver ChopHouse and Osteria Marco are a 15-minute walk. For quick bites at Tap & Burger or Brooklyn's Finest, you can eat as late as 30 minutes before doors and still make it comfortably.
Can you walk to restaurants from Ball Arena?
Yes. The closest options (Tap & Burger, Brooklyn's Finest Pizza) are 5-8 minutes on foot. LoDo restaurants along Wewatta and Larimer are 10-15 minutes. The walk from Ball Arena to LoDo along Wewatta Street is well-lit and safe, especially on event nights when thousands are making the same walk.
Are there restaurants inside Ball Arena?
Ball Arena has concession stands on every level serving burgers, pizza, nachos, and drinks. The Lexus Club Level has premium dining options for club-seat holders. However, concession prices run $14-20 for food and $14+ for beer, so eating beforehand is a smart move for both your wallet and your stomach.
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