Outback Bowl 2017: Where To Eat, Drink in Tampa

In town for the Outback Bowl between South Carolina and Michigan on New Year's Day? Here's where to eat and drink near the stadium in Tampa Bay.

The Outback Bowl between Michigan and South Carolina kicks off at Noon ET on Monday, January 1. It ranked No. 4 on Eric Single's Entertainment Bowl Rankings. He wrote: "It’s been five long years since The Hit. The game itself is worth watching to see whether Gamecocks QB Jake Bentley can find a way through the Wolverines’ stout defense after South Carolina fired offensive coordinator Kurt Roper, but we’re all just looking for excuses to watch The Hit again, and the telecast is sure to oblige."

If you happen to be in town for this matchup and are looking for some places to eat and drink nearby the stadium, whether it's for a quick bite or a long hangout, our friends at Yelp passed along some suggestions, which we've listed out below. They've filtered their results within ~2 miles of the stadium. 

Duffy's Sports Grill

1580 North Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33607

Yelp Stars: 4 | Reviews: 202 | Miles from Raymond James Stadium: 1.6

Sample Yelp Review: "They had the best tv layout I have ever seen. Tv's upon TV's. Not a bad seat in the house. Our service was equally friendly and informative. I'll just tell you, can't go wrong with a burger or wings here. If I lived near, this would be a regular landing spot for the drink and food specials." ​(—Jamison R.)

Cooper's Hawk

4110 W. Boy Scout Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607

Yelp Stars: 4 | Reviews: 646| Miles from Raymond James Stadium: 1.2

Sample Yelp Review: "I can't wait to go back!! I went on a Friday night for their wine tasting and man what a fun experience. It's $7 and you get to try 8 wines! You also get to try their truffles for $1 each! I was in awe of their deal, and the fantastic wine selection.​" (—Andrea Z.) 

Chicago Paulies

1301 N. Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33607

Yelp Stars: 5 | Reviews: 81 | Miles from Raymond James Stadium: 2.8

Sample Yelp Review: "Came to Chicago Paulie's and had amazing hot dogs. If you are looking for something different and DELICIOUS,  definitely come here. It's a little shack next to a gas station so parking is a little tough but sooooo worth it." (—Yaromil C.)