You’ve scored seats for the game, picked out the perfect outfit and accessories to cheer on your team, now don’t drop the ball when it comes to tailgating. A solid game plan is necessary because we all know, your tailgate spread is almost as important as the final score. We’ve gathered a few tips and recipes to make an invitation to your parking space a hot ticket!
THE FOOD
We found Reid’s to be a one spot stop for all of the food! Pimento cheese, fried chicken, prepared salads and even football shaped cookies for the sweet tooth.
THE DRINKS
Cocktails are key to winning best in show at the tailgate. Pack the Yeti with a selection of sparkling LaCroix, bottled water and some local Charlotte craft beers; a few of our personal faves are Triple C Brewing’s Golden Boy, Unknown Brewing’s Pre Game and NoDa Brewing’s Jam Session.
Scoop Pro Tip: Pre-mix your signature cocktails before you go and be sure to put your ice for drinks in a separate ziploc bag to keep separate from cooler ice
Start with Bloody Marys for kick off times before 1pm. Garnishes are your game changer on this cocktail, consider adding spiced green beans, sweet dill pickles, bacon slices or chilled shrimp to your standard celery and green olive.
We love this refreshing Lemongrass Collins from Tapas 51. Muddle three lemon wedges with two pinches of cilantro; add 1oz lemongrass syrup with 1.5 oz of Topo Organic Piedmont Gin. Shake vigorously. When you are ready to serve, top with soda for a little fizz!
Ok, going to share a personal recipe for Panthers Punch. Mix Tito’s Vodka with LaCroix Coconut, add a splash of pineapple juice and enough V-8 Splash Blue Raspberry juice to turn it your favorite shade of Carolina Blue.
THE EQUIPMENT
