Where to Find Super Bowl Eats

On Feb. 3, Super Bowl Sunday XLVII will commence. Some people look forward to the game, the funny commercials and the halftime show (Destiny’s Child reunion!). But others are solely there for the wings, the nachos and the pizza—and rightfully so.

There’s something about Super Bowl food that gives the day an almost Thanksgiving-like aura. Both events boast a big, communal meal—except on Super Bowl Sunday, it’s usually deep fried and covered in Buffalo sauce.

If you're looking to go out for the game, there are plenty of options in the area. Of course, if you're hosting or attending a Super Bowl party, we've got plenty of options for you as well.

Here are just a few of the terrific local places you can grab a bit for the big game. For more, check out our directory!

• Tavern on the Lake: Hightstown's sports bar not only has a new menu served during live games, but it'll be holding a Super Bowl party this Sunday. Come for drink specials, prizes and giveaways and a free halftime buffet, with festivities starting at 6 p.m. If you're planning to stay at home, you can always order a party platter for takeout or delivery.
• City Streets Cafe: Over in East Windsor, City Streets will offer a free halftime buffet along with its regular football specials. The many deluxe televisions should offer an impressive viewing experience.
• TGI Friday's: Friday's in East Windsor usually attracts a decent crowd. They'll be rolling out new options which you can preview online alongside a printable coupon. (Hint: Said menu will include wings, ribs and plenty of cheese.)
• The Cranbury Inn: Nestled in the heart of historic Cranbury, this charming inn boasts three fireplaces and has a rustic feel. It's only open until 9 p.m. on Sundays, but it's got a great bar.
• The Station Bar and Grill: Come sit down and have a nice dinner and a few drinks.

• Cranbury Pizza: This is a lively neighborhood spot serving up pies and slices in the heart of Cranbury. In addition to pizzas, traditional Italian soups such as pasta fagiloli are homemade daily. A range of sandwhiches come in small (9 inches) or large (12 inches). The dinner menu features a full range of pastas as well as main-course entrees. Salads and calzones round out the menu.
• Familglia Pizza: Familglia Pizza is a warm and friendly family-owned pizzeria. It opened in 1984. It is known by locals for its upside-down pizza and great chicken parmesan. There is seating inside, or you can get takout or delivery.

If you’d rather whip something up yourself, try these easy recipes:

Wendy’s Super Easy Super Bowl Guacamole

Ingredients:

•    1 bag of ripe avocados (4) from Trader Joe’s
•    1 container of fresh salsa from Trader Joe’s (spiciness dependent on your      taste)
•    1 – 3 large cloves of garlic, pressed or finely chopped
•    1 teaspoon ground cumin
•    1 bag of tortilla chips 

Directions:

1. Peel and pit avocados.
2. Mash the avocados in a non-metal bowl (if one or more of them seems a wee bit under-ripe, chop instead of mashing).
3. Drain the fresh salsa well (I usually use the lid to squish the salsa down and pour the liquid into the sink) and add it to the mashed avocados.
4. Add the pressed or chopped garlic and the cumin.
5. Mix well, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs (adapted from Rachael Ray) - serves 8

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground white meat chicken
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed or finely chopped
• 1 cup cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
• 1 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s or Cholula)
• 3 scallions, green and white parts thinly sliced
• Store-bought, good quality blue cheese dressing for dipping
• 1 bag pre-cut celery sticks
• 1 bag pre-cut carrot sticks

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with the onion, garlic and cilantro or parsley, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Shape the chicken mixture into balls—you should have 32 meatballs in total.
4. Arrange the meatballs on a wire rack on a foil-covered sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
6. While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a large, flat bottom pan over medium heat.
7. Add the hot sauce and whisk to combine.
8. In the pan, toss the baked meatballs in the hot sauce to coat (you may do this in batches) and transfer to a serving platter.
9. Place the blue cheese dressing in a small serving bowl and garnish with chopped scallions.
10. Serve the meatballs with toothpicks alongside the blue cheese dressing, celery and carrot sticks.

If you want to enjoy Super Bowl food without the super mess, head to LOCALIZE: ADD LOCAL PUBS WHO WILL BE HOSTING SUPER BOWL VIEWING PARTIES.

TELL US: What are some of your favorite recipes for Super Bowl snacks? Share in the comments below.