Pucks and Pins

Going to a college hockey game usually involves getting something to eat before, during or after a game. Here are some of the places that are worth mentioning.

BEST OF THE BEST – – the Baked Potato Bar in the Alfond Arena at the University of Maine. They had massive baked potatoes along with all the fixings — from butter to bacon, cheese, chili and veggies. Sadly the baked potato bar is no more, and it is missed by the Alfond faithful and visitors alike.

Merrimack College, North Andover, MA: there used to be a Fuddruckers that was directly across Route 114 from the rink that was a great location for a pre-game gathering. Delicious burgers and fries, a topping bar for the burgers, and great milkshakes. There was also a limited but decent selection of beer. There is now a Dunkin Donuts attached to Lawler Arena, which is a great place to hang out before the game (because I love their iced tea).

Orono, Maine – no trip to Orono is complete without a trip to Pats Pizza, and no trip to Pats is complete without going “downstairs” at Pats. My “go to” pizza was a 9 inch double dough with pepperoni and sausage. Pats is still operating but “downstairs” is now only a fond memory.

Whittemore Center (UNH, Durham, NH) – has great chicken tenders and fries. Their brownies are also good. When teams like BU, Northeastern, or UConn come to down (dog mascot) they offer “Dollar Dog nights”

Conte Forum (Boston College) – they have a stand offering really good BBQ sandwiches (beef or pork) which includes a side. The Mac and Cheese is great. Their pretzels are also soft and salty.

Sacred Heart (Connecticut) has some of the best local donuts that I have ever tasted.

Boston University – Before Agganis Arena the Terriers played at Walter Brown Arena. In the late 1980’s and early 1990’s it was one of the only places where you could buy a beer. I also recall that they had a stand where you could buy sushi. Why someone would buy sushi at a hockey rink is beyond me.!!

If you’re going to BU, it’s also worth going to Cornwalls in Kenmore Square. They have a great beer selection. But it always seems to be closed when we try and go.