Watching NCAA Football - September 2011

[jkford13]

I'm going to be staying at HRH with a bunch of friends and family the weekend of 9/17/11. Because we are coming in from all over the country, there are fans from pretty much every NCAA conference.

I had previously read that Sports Deluxe in HRH and 40/40 Club in Palazzo were great venues to enjoy some games. But from what I can tell both have been closed.

so...where is the best place to watch a game? My preference is to not watch at a sports book. However, if you know of one with a layout conducive to bigger groups (8-12) and good food, then I could be convinced.

I have read about Blondies sports bar in PH, and it seems like a good spot, although it's a Buckeye bar and my wife is a Wolverine. Not ruling it out, but definitely open to other options.

Another question...what about a cabana? I think we'd be limited to 1 game per cabana at a time, which might be an issue. But how is the viewing in the cabana? ie...too much glare on the screen to really enjoy the game?

Thanks for your help,
Justin

[JWalkSC]

40/40 at Palazzo became Legasse's Stadium and is a favorite of many to watch games. It can get very busy though and if you have a bigger group, definitely make reservations.

ESPN Zone at NY-NY is now The Sporting House and essentially the same exact place without the ESPN branding. Tons of TVs, variety of food and drinks and was lively when I watched a playoff hockey game back in May.

I haven't been to Blondie's, but it looks like they have a good happy hour (not sure if this applies to game days). However, it seems that reservations may be based on time slots (9 am, 12:30, 4) and require per person minimums in advance. Not sure if reservations are required or if you can show up whenever as well.

[jkford13]

JWalk...

Thanks for the reply. I will definitely make some calls to Lagasse's and Sporting House.

Have you booked one of the private rooms at Legasse's before? I'm not sure our group will be big enough as people will probably come and go as their games are on...but it might be worth it. I'm guessing with the fight that weekend, everything will be slammed.

Thanks again,
Justin

[JWalkSC]

I have not booked one of the bigger rooms before, so can't really offer any advice there. As you mentioned, probably best to call around and see what the best deal is that you can get and if they require any minimums or have any restrictions. Good luck and report back!