Ranking Pre-Game Food Spots
Getting out early before a game, many athletes at Magnet have lots of time to kill. The option for most of these athletes is going to get food with teammates, killing some time before their events. With Tanger nearby, there are plenty of options for food, but some are clearly better than others. In this article, I am going to go over the choices, sharing thoughts and opinions on each spot to help make the after school choice easier.
Moe’s: My personal favorite
Moe’s is a great option for pre-game meals because it has a good balance between taste and healthiness. While it’s not the cheapest option, the food they serve you is fairly high quality, and it’s not too greasy, which is key for athletes who don’t want to feel stomach pain before hitting the field. The bowls and burritos have a good mix of protein and carbs, which can keep you fueled for a long game or practice. The main downside is the price, but it is honestly not even too bad. Depending on what you get, it can get expensive, especially if you’re adding extras like queso or guacamole, but for a well-rounded meal that won’t weigh you down, it’s one of the best options.
Tropical Smoothie- A lighter option
Tropical Smoothie is another solid pick, especially for people who don’t want to eat something too heavy before practice. Their smoothies can give a good energy boost, being filled with fruits and sugars, and you can even opt to add in caffeine if you want. While the food is good, it isn’t always filling, and the prices can add up very quickly, especially if you’re getting a smoothie too. If you’re looking for something light that won’t leave you tired, Tropical Smoothie is a good choice, but if you’re really hungry, I would recommend going somewhere else.
Chipotle: Kind of the same as Moes
In my opinion, Moes is the better choice over Chipotle but many people will disagree with me on that. I think Chipotle tends to have better chicken but the steak is definitely lacking. Pretty much just the same as Moes, you can get a bowl, burrito, or quesadilla, all pretty healthy and not too greasy which makes it a fair option before games. Chipotle is an absolute price hike though, you can almost never get out of there without spending more than $20 which is not too terrible but if you’re going there with every early out before practice and games it adds up. The food is pretty good, the bowls are probably better at Chipotle than Moes but I think in the other categories Moes wins. It really does not matter that much. It is literally the same thing but I write anyways.
Culver’s: Why would anyone go here
So many people always want to go to Culvers and I have no idea why. It is so greasy and always makes me feel sick. It is dirt cheap but the food is just not good at all. The burgers are super greasy and I mean I guess I understand if you want to eat there after a game but I really could never understand it before a game. Mid ahh burgers and I mean the milkshakes are pretty good but be deadahh with me. I would not recommend this place and I don’t want to talk about it any more.
CiCi’s Pizza: not a good option
Cici’s pizza offers all you can eat at a cheap price but I mean you know what you’re getting with that. Low quality, the food doesn’t taste very good, and it is so greasy. Before a game I think this might kill you. After, it could be a good option because it is so filling, but don’t go here before. It is dirt cheap, so if that is all you care about I guess it is a fair option and you’ll probably find a frequentist there named John2Goofy. He would probably advocate for this place as a good option but I will not be, sorry John2Goofy.
Chick-fil-A: a very fair option
Chick-fil-A is one of the most consistent options out there. The chicken is always good, and the prices are fairly reasonable, especially if you stick to the basics. However, the menu is pretty limited. If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you’re out of luck. Still, Chick-fil-A provides a solid source of protein without being overly greasy, making it a decent pre-game meal. Just don’t expect much variety.
Huey Magoo’s – A Gamble
Huey Magoo’s is another chicken-focused option, but the problem here is that it doesn’t offer much variety. The food is good, but the portions aren’t always the best, and it can leave you feeling a little off if you eat too much. If you’re looking for something different from Chick-fil-A but still want chicken, it’s worth considering, but it’s not the most reliable option for fueling up before a big game.
Panera Bread – Quality but iffy
Panera offers one of the best selections for pre-game meals, with a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads that cater to different dietary needs. The food quality is normally higher than fast-food options, and it’s not too greasy, making it a good pick for athletes. The only downside is that It takes longer than most other places. If you have time before practice or a game, Panera is one of the best options around, but if you’re in a rush, it might not be the best call.
Final Thoughts – Finding the Right Pre-Game Meal
When it comes to choosing the best pre-game or pre-practice meal, it’s all about finding the right balance. Athletes need food that provides lasting energy without being too heavy, greasy, or expensive. Moe’s and Tropical Smoothie are strong choices for those looking to stay light and energized, while Chick-fil-A and Panera offer good options depending on time constraints. On the other hand, places like CiCi’s and Culver’s might be cheap, but you do not want to eat CiCi’s or Culvers like actually it’s terrible.
