Heading to a concert, hockey game, or other exciting event at the Santander Arena in Reading, Pennsylvania, and wondering where to grab a bite to eat? Tired of the same old arena concessions? You’re in luck! This guide unveils the tastiest restaurants and eateries just steps away from the Santander Arena, ensuring you can fuel up before the show, celebrate a victory after, or simply enjoy a delicious meal in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Santander Arena, a hub of entertainment in Berks County, attracts crowds from all over to its diverse range of events. But before or after you experience the excitement within its walls, why not explore the culinary scene that surrounds it? Don’t settle for standard arena fare when a world of flavors awaits you right outside! Whether you’re craving a quick pre-show snack, a leisurely sit-down dinner, or a post-event wind-down with drinks, this article highlights a diverse selection of dining options near the Santander Arena to satisfy every palate and budget. We’ve compiled a list of the best food near Santander Arena, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying your event.
Quick Bites and Casual Dining: Perfect for a Speedy Pre-Show Meal
When time is of the essence, and you need a quick and satisfying meal before the curtain rises, these casual dining spots are your best bet.
Grab-and-Go Goodness
For a quick and tasty slice of pizza, head to Slice of Santander, located just a short walk from the arena on Penn Street. This local favorite offers a wide variety of pizzas by the slice or whole pies, ensuring you can grab something to fuel up without missing a beat. With prices ranging from around $3 to $5 per slice, and whole pies available for around $20, it’s an affordable option for a pre-show meal.
If you’re more in the mood for a sandwich, there are many sandwich shops near the arena, offering customizable options that are both quick and delicious. Choose from a variety of meats, cheeses, and toppings to create the perfect sandwich to satisfy your hunger before the show begins.
For a lighter option, or a great spot to pick up a quick breakfast, consider stopping by Canal Street Diner on Canal Street. This place has pre-made sandwiches as well as some baked goods that will hold you over for hours.
Local Favorites, Fast Service
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, visit El Rey Mexican Restaurant, a family-owned eatery serving up flavorful tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their fast service and affordable prices make it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying pre-show meal. This place is a real hidden gem.
If Asian cuisine is more your style, check out the local favorite, Asian Noodle House. They offer a delicious and quick meal where you can have it your way. Their prices are also great, and their location is very close to the arena.
Sit-Down Restaurants: For a More Relaxed Experience
If you have a bit more time to spare and prefer a more leisurely dining experience, these sit-down restaurants offer a chance to relax and enjoy a delicious meal before or after your event.
Upscale Eats
For a truly special occasion, consider The Blue Plate Restaurant. This local fine-dining establishment offers a sophisticated ambiance and a menu featuring seasonal dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This is a great place to have a date night. The Blue Plate Restaurant is a perfect place to splurge before you attend an event.
For a place that feels more like home, check out Tony’s Italian Restaurant. Their service and food quality is top-notch. They also have amazing dessert options.
Comfort Food and Classics
Sometimes, all you need is a hearty dose of classic comfort food. The Reading Diner is the perfect place to satisfy those cravings. This traditional diner offers all your favorite comfort food dishes, from juicy burgers and crispy fries to creamy milkshakes and breakfast served all day. Their friendly service and nostalgic atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a satisfying meal.
For a more upscale take on comfort food, check out City Post American Brasserie on Penn Street. They have all of the comfort foods you want like mac and cheese, burgers, and fried foods, but on a more culinary experience.
International Flavors
For a taste of authentic Latin flavors, visit La Cocina Del Abuela, a local favorite known for its home-style cooking and vibrant atmosphere. Their menu features a variety of traditional dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor.
For a more diverse menu of Mediterranean and Greek style food, be sure to check out The Mad Greek. They offer a selection of options that are delicious and savory. Their Greek fries are truly unique, and you’d be hard-pressed to find something of the same quality.
If you’re in the mood for some traditional Irish fare and a lively atmosphere, stop by Chatty’s Irish Pub. This popular spot offers a menu of classic pub food, including shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and corned beef and cabbage, along with a wide selection of beers and spirits.
Bars and Pubs: For Drinks and a Bite
Looking for a place to grab a drink and a bite to eat before or after the show? These bars and pubs offer a lively atmosphere and a range of tasty options.
Pre-Show Drinks and Lively Atmosphere
The Double Tap Bar, located on Washington Street, offers a wide selection of craft beers and a menu of pub fare, including wings, burgers, and appetizers. A popular spot to gather before events, The Double Tap Bar is known for its lively atmosphere and friendly service. They also have happy hour specials and frequent live music performances.
For another great place to hear some local music, be sure to stop by the Lucky Shoe Tavern on Court Street. This tavern features many local artists that play live music at the venue. They also offer a wide selection of menu options for both food and drinks.
Post-Event Wind-Down
For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit The Quiet Man Irish Pub, a cozy spot with a wide selection of beers and spirits. They have a menu of pub food and are open fairly late which makes it a great place to stop for a bite after an event.
Sweet Treats and Desserts: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
No meal is complete without a sweet treat! These dessert spots offer the perfect way to end your pre- or post-show dining experience.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
A must-stop for ice cream or other cold treats, check out Reading Creamery. This venue has a wide variety of different things you can buy to quell your hunger for dessert.
If you’re in the mood for some fresh baked goods, there are a few bakeries that can be found just a few blocks away from the Santander Arena. These bakeries have different hours, so check with them online before you make the trip.
Tips for Planning Your Meal
To ensure you have a seamless and enjoyable dining experience near the Santander Arena, keep these tips in mind:
Make Reservations: Especially for popular restaurants on event nights, making reservations is highly recommended. You can use online platforms like OpenTable or call the restaurant directly to secure your table.
Check Hours: Verify the restaurant’s opening hours, as some may have limited hours or be closed on certain days. Checking their website or calling ahead can save you from disappointment.
Consider Parking: Parking near the Santander Arena can be challenging, especially on event nights. Consider parking options near the restaurants or utilize ride-sharing services to avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot.
Check Reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of food, service, and atmosphere of different restaurants. Before making your decision, take a look at reviews on platforms like Yelp or Google to get a better understanding of what to expect.
Conclusion
As you can see, the area surrounding the Santander Arena offers a wide array of dining options to suit every taste and preference. From quick and casual bites to upscale dining experiences, from traditional comfort food to international flavors, and from lively bars to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, the next time you’re attending an event at the Santander Arena, skip the arena food and explore these fantastic local eateries. Your taste buds will thank you! Discover the diverse culinary scene that surrounds the arena, and make your visit an unforgettable experience. Now go enjoy the show, and a delicious meal! Don’t forget to try some of the best food near Santander Arena to complete your evening.
