It’s time for the NCAA Tournament in Sacramento at Golden One Arena!
The promise of a new downtown arena didn’t just mean a new beautiful building to watch the Sacramento Kings play. It also meant concerts and other sporting events.
And now it means watching the first round of March Madness from the stands, instead on the living room couch.
Lucky locals and out-of-towners alike have a lot of basketball to take in over the next few days.
So let’s talk all things Golden 1 Center (G1C) and Sacramento’s top restaurants that are located by the arena.
First off, a little about G1C itself.
I’ve been lucky enough to go to a few events there already, including a Kings game and the Bon Jovi concert. Before G1C even opened, I did a little write up on the arena, so please check it out for more details.
For those going to the games on Friday, here is the official schedule:
Doors open at 9:30 a.m. for Session 1
Oregon vs. Iona: Tip-off at 11:00 a.m.
Creighton vs. Rhode Island: 30 minutes after the Oregon/Iona game wraps
Then everyone has to leave until 3:30 p.m. when doors reopen.
Doors open at 3:30 p.m. for Session 2
Cincinnati vs Kansas State: Tip-off at 4:27 (such a random, but super exact time…)
UCLA vs Kent State: 30 minutes after the Cinci/K State game wraps
Wondering what to do during the break between sessions or after a full day of basketball?
Well, even through you’ll have plenty of amazing food options inside G1C, definitely check out some local Sacramento restaurants within walking distance of the arena.
Sauced is clearly amazing choice that is just steps from the doors of the arena. I did a little write about it for Girls on the Grid when it first opened a few months ago. I’ve been back numerous times and this BBQ place has never disappointed.
Another great pick for any sports fan is Sactown Sports Bar in Old Sacramento. You can walk there in under ten minutes.
Added bonus- they are offering 15% off your bill if you show them your ticket to the tournament during tournament hours.
Or you can walk over the I Street Bridge into West Sacramento and enjoy a burger (or pizza!) at Burgers & Brews. This walk should take you about 15 minutes, but the crowds might be a little lighter than other places closer to arena.
Need more options? No problem! Sacramento has plenty! All of these are less than a 10 minute walk from G1C:
Ambrosia Cafe – Fabulous coffee, sandwiches, and salads… Plus this cafe has a really cute feel to it.
Andy’s Candy Apothecary – Who doesn’t need a sweet treat? Andy won the Downtown Sacramento Partnership’s first Calling All Dreamer’s competition and fulfilled his dream of opening a candy shop that we all get to enjoy!
Speaking of which, the dreamers competition is now open to submit your idea for a new business in downtown. You could be the next Andy! Submissions close April 10th, just follow the link above!
Blackbird– Amazing food specializing in seafood.
The Grange– Upscale restaurant, beautiful food, inside the Citizen Hotel.
House– Super yummy salads, sandwiches, and entrees.
Malt & Mash Irish Pub – A recently opened twist on the traditional Irish Pub. Its right across from the G1C.
Temple Coffee– Arguably the best coffee in town. Don’t skip the whip cream here on your mocha. You’ll thank me later.
Of course, these are just a few of my favorites of the more than 50 restaurants, cafes, and pubs that are within a short walk of the arena. You can get a complete list on Yelp.
So, if you’re heading to the NCAA Tournament in Sacramento this weekend, I hope some of these suggestions help. Cheers to a great tournament, and may your bracket be full of advances and very few busts!
