Review by Michael Pinto, Stadium Journey Correspondent
FANFARE Score: 29
Food & Beverage: 5
American Airlines Arena features 14 general concessions and 28 portable carts. There is no shortage of variety either. The concessions feature all the arena classics, but it’s the portable carts that offer an exceptionally wide variety. There’s stir fry, Latin and Mexican, sandwiches, arepas, tacos, kebabs, sushi, cinnamon buns, frozen lemonade, and fresh baked cookies among others. The concession prices are standard, but the specialty items are a bit costly- $12-15 a plate. Overall, food pricing is average if you are looking /for something simple, but are high if you’re looking for something more.
For beverages, the arena offers domestic beers on draft and in bottle as well as a decent selection of imported beers like Heineken, Presidente, and Dos Equis available only in bottle. For spirits, Grey Goose and Bacardi bars and carts located throughout the arena offer a full bar, but prices are a bit high; any spirit will cost at least $10.
Atmosphere: 4
The atmosphere is electric in the arena and there is a definite local Miami flair. The stadium features a marching band, dancers, mascots, and a variety of performers. There is no shortage of entertainment, and downtime is stacked with performances and shows to keep you interested whenever the action stops.
Neighborhood: 5
The arena is located adjacent to Bayside Marketplace, which features several bars, restaurants, and shops. Other than that, there are many, many more bars and restaurants within a short drive. There is easy access to highways and no shortage of entertainment available in the neighborhood.
Restaurants and bars in the area:
Los Ranchos – 401 Biscayne Blvd, Bayside Marketplace, Miami, Florida 33132 (0.15 miles from American Airlines Arena)
Located in the Bayside Marketplace just a short walk from the stadium, Los Ranchos is a well known Nicaraguan steakhouse that specializes in marinated and grilled steaks, chickens, and seafood. The restaurant features a broad menu, with several salads and starters to choose from as well as over 15 different entrees. There is daily live entertainment and a view of the South Florida intercostals. Los Ranchos features a full bar with a good selection of domestic and imported beers, as well as specialty drinks with a Latin influence. The prices overall are moderate, but specialty drinks are a bit costly- $10-15. The experience is truly South American and the food is authentic and exceptionally flavorful.
Delight Caribbean – 236 NE 1st Ave, Miami, Florida, 33132 (0.33 miles from American Airlines Arena)
Located within walking distance of the arena is one of Miami’s finest Caribbean restaurants. The establishment features authentic food at a reasonable price. Portions are enormous, most big enough to share. On the menu you will find oxtail, cow foot, curry goat, as well as more traditional dishes like jerk chicken or jerk pork. There are lots of seafood items to choose from as well and several salads for those looking for something lighter. Delight Caribbean has homemade island juices available as well as a decent selection of domestic and imported beers. Red Stripe is the fan favorite at this establishment, running just $4 during lunch specials. The service is friendly and informative and will leave you with the feeling you’ve actually gone to the Caribbean for a meal.
Fans: 3
The fans are generally courteous and respectful but do not necessarily add to one’s enjoyment of the experience. Usually the stadium is not at maximum capacity, but when it gets packed for a big game there are few places more exciting to watch a game. That isn’t the average experience though.
Access: 4
Stadium parking is limited, but there are many parking lots around the stadium to park for $10-20. Restrooms in the stadium are found on all levels and are effectively spaced and easily accessible.
Return on Investment: 4
Admission and in-stadium costs are a little high, but the overall experience is well worth the price.
Etc: 4
Bonus points for the variety of food and the great area restaurants. There aren’t many locations better than the American Airlines Arena; that’ll earn a bonus point. The most important bonus point is Dwyane Wade. The show he puts on is well worth the price of admission.
