With their chance of a clean sweep now history, the Golden State Warriors are going into Game 5 of the NBA Finals with a 3-1 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers and a chance to win the title at home.
Monday’s game at Oracle Arena may well be the toughest ticket in Bay Area sports history. So, for those unable to grab the high-money seats at the Warriors' home in Oakland, here are some choice local spots to take in all the action on TV.
Described on its website as a “culinary carnival and urban playground,” SOMA Streatfood Park packs its food garden with fans from all over the Bay Area during watch parties. Tickets are $5, making it a prime location to watch Game 5. Guests also can grab $4 Modelo beers and snacks from the lineup of food trucks.
Some food choices include wood-fired pizza, vegan burgers, Greek gyros, Korean food and ramen. Hitch a ride to South of Market in San Francisco, and make sure to arrive on time, as this Warriors hive fills up fast.
Conveniently located off the 19th Street Oakland BART station, ERA Art Bar and Lounge is opening its doors a 5 p.m. to host its Game 5 watch party. The bar has multiple reservation options, including tables for groups of four that include mixers, spirits and raffle tickets.
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Raffle tickets offer a chance to win Warriors gear, with the grand prize winner getting a pair of tickets to the next playoff game at the Oracle Arena. All of the money from the tickets will be donated to the Warriors Community Foundation.
Along with projecting the game onto eight screens, the bar offers live music as well as drink specials. To reserve a spot, go to the bar’s watch party website.
Looking for an escape from the typical bar scene? Head to San Francisco’s music venue, The Independent. Usually offering a stage to bands spanning across genres, the club is switching gears for the special night. On Monday, The Independent will transform into a basketball viewing venue for Warriors fans to gather. Admission is free, but a two-drink minimum is required.
Doors open an hour before tipoff.
While many sports bars may be filled with the usual fried foods, The Taco Shop at Underdogs provides a fresh feast suitable for a Mexican fiesta. Plus, with a fully stocked bar, fans can pair their tacos with a shot of tequila every time a free throw is made.
Get to the Taco Shop at Underdogs in San Francisco's Outer Sunset at least an hour before tipoff to grab a winning seat and some guacamole for the big game.
