Fifth Third Arena, affectionately known as "The Shoe," is the vibrant home of University of Cincinnati Bearcats basketball. Following an $87 million renovation completed in 2018, the arena boasts modern amenities while preserving its storied atmosphere
🏟️ Seating & Atmosphere
With a capacity of 12,012, Fifth Third Arena features a 360-degree seating bowl, ensuring excellent sightlines from every angle. Premium seating options include the Champions Club, Arena Club, and Mercedes-Benz Courtside Club, offering enhanced comfort and exclusive amenities . The arena's design fosters an intimate and energetic environment, making it a formidable venue for visiting teams.
🍔 Must-Try Concessions Inside the Arena
Fifth Third Arena offers a variety of local culinary favorites:
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Taste of Belgium (Section 113): Renowned for their Chicken & Waffles and Beer Cheese Pretzels.
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Skyline Chili (Sections 117 & 203): Serving iconic Chili Cheese Dogs and classic coneys.
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Frisch’s Big Boy (Section 118): Classic cheeseburgers and fries.
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Buffalo Wings & Rings (Section 203): Offering Buffalo Chicken Wings and Onion Rings.
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Mexican Taco Stand (Section 217): Featuring Chicken Tacos and Cheesy Nachos.gobearcats.com+2sports-teller.com+2gobearcats.com+2
Additionally, the arena features bars at the north end of the main and upper concourses, providing a selection of beverages to complement the game-day experience .gobearcats.com
🍽️ Dining Options Near the Arena
For pre- or post-game dining, consider these nearby establishments:
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Sotto: An upscale Italian restaurant known for its intimate ambiance and handmade pastas.
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Pepp & Dolores: A casual Italian eatery offering housemade pastas and a warm, familial atmosphere.
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Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse: A premier destination for USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood.
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The Precinct: Housed in a historic police patrol house, this steakhouse offers a unique dining experience.
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BOCA: A contemporary European restaurant delivering chef-driven cuisine with gracious service.
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Losanti: A boutique Italian steakhouse known for its fresh pasta and expertly butchered steaks.
These restaurants are within a short drive from the arena and offer a range of dining experiences to suit various preferences .
🎉 Unique Features
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The Armory Bar: Located on the main concourse, this bar pays homage to the historic Armory Fieldhouse, featuring the original floor from the Shoemaker Center .
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Historic Significance: The arena has witnessed numerous memorable moments, including a 42-game home win streak from 1997 to 2000, underscoring its reputation as a challenging venue for opponents
Fifth Third Arena seamlessly blends modern amenities with rich tradition, offering fans an immersive and memorable game-day experience. Whether you're savoring local culinary delights or soaking in the electrifying atmosphere, a visit to "The Shoe" is a must for basketball enthusiasts.