Fall in Princeton isn’t just about colorful foliage and crisp weather—it’s also prime time for sports enthusiasts to gather for tailgates and watch parties. Whether you’re cheering for the Princeton Tigers or enjoying a local high school game, good food is an essential part of the experience. From hearty classics to local-inspired bites, here are the best dishes to bring to your next tailgate or fall sports event in Princeton.
New Jersey is known for their sweet tomatoes, so highlight them in simple but flavorful Caprese skewers. Layer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze. These bite-sized snacks are easy to eat on the go, plus they are healthy, light, and refreshing!
No tailgate is complete without something hearty and satisfying, and pulled pork sliders hit the mark. Add a Princeton twist by topping them with a crisp apple slaw made with fresh New Jersey apples. If possible, buy slider buns from a local bakery to support Princeton businesses!
Warm, gooey, and loaded with flavor, buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead. To save even more time, pick up a rotisserie chicken from La Rosa Chicken and Grill and add it to your dip. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and ready for dips and other tailgate dishes. Serve the buffalo chicken dip with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crusty bread. Use a slow cooker to keep the dip warm for all-day snacking.
Celebrate the Princeton Tigers with mini hot dogs wrapped in puff pastry, resembling tiger tails. Serve with an assortment of dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, and spicy aioli. These are fun, themed, and easy to make ahead.
Pretzels are a game-day favorite, and homemade or store-bought pretzel bites pair perfectly with a tangy mustard dip or hot cheese sauce. Pick up fresh pretzels from a Princeton bakery, such as Lynn’s Soft Pretzels or the Philly Pretzel Factory, to add a regional touch.
Nothing says fall like a hearty pot of chili. Set up a chili bar with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and jalapeños so guests can customize their bowls. You can also offer a meatless option for vegetarian guests. Other ways to switch up your chili bar include serving hot baked potatoes or hot dogs that can be topped with chili and all the fixings.
Add a touch of fall flair with creamy butternut squash soup served in small cups or shot glasses for easy sipping. Garnish with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for extra flavor—perfect for the fall season! Serve alongside crusty bread or crackers.
Take nachos to the next level with a variety of toppings like pulled pork, black beans, jalapeños, and queso. Use tortilla chips in Princeton’s orange-and-black colors for team spirit. A quick tailgating tip is to assemble the nachos on-site and keep the toppings warm with a portable heat source.
Tailgating and fall sports events in Princeton are as much about the camaraderie and fun as they are about the food. With these delicious and crowd-friendly dishes, you’ll be the MVP of your next game-day gathering. Don’t forget—La Rosa Chicken and Grill always has hearty meals ready to order! Between our chicken tenders, fries, and cornbread, you can easily serve a crowd and keep everyone satisfied and in the spirit of the season. Go Tigers!