Ripe with a palpable buzz, Jacksonville, Florida, is filled with smoky barbecue tang, cars boasting teal and gold flags, and the signature “DUUUVAL!” chant often replacing the usual Sunday silence. As another Jaguars game creeps closer, excitement permeates the air.

Longtime Jacksonville Jaguars season ticket owner and a renowned travel writer, Carrie McLaren, is no stranger to this fervor. Raised here, McLaren embraces the city's football culture, where families spanning generations gear up in face paint and jerseys to cheer on their beloved Jags. "Football right here, it's a family tradition. A day typically starts with tailgate spots becoming breakfast spots as the sun rises," recounts McLaren.

Ranging from pre-game brunch to post-game meals or wanting to nosh while viewing the game, Jacksonville spoils for choice with an array of dining options catering to all urges. To help navigate through this culinary journey, McLaren provides her best recommendations for feeling fueled and refreshed during the game day.

Nestled amidst the Five Points community stands Hoptinger Bier Garden, known for its pre-game food. The venue, opening as early as 10 a.m., is perfect for a brunch before the game begins. Boasting over 60 craft beers on tap and a customizable Bloody Mary menu, the highlight lies with its French Toast Burger - a McLaren favorite and an ideal game day feast.

Looking for a more upscale pre-game meal? Try the Blue Fish restaurant at the Avondale neighborhood. Here, one can indulge in the diverse menu that includes notable dishes like Bold City's Fried Green Tomato Benedict, Banana Fosters French Toast, Blackened Mahi topped with Jumbo Lump Crab while savoring their unique cocktail mix. And don’t bypass their dessert bar, brimming with sublime homemade chocolate chip cookies - an ideal treat after the game.

If you find yourself in town sans a game day ticket, Intuition Ale Works is the go-to venue. A family-friendly brewpub situated mere blocks from the stadium, offers local beer across 21 taps and a game day menu filled with cheese curds, burgers, and pulled pork sandwiches. The place's roof-top bar presents a fantastic stadium view, and on a good day, one might even take a peek at the stadium's jumbotrons.

A sports day is incomplete without a visit to Fore Score Golf Tavern in San Marco. Reserve a bay, try the Full Swing Golf simulators as the Jaguars game streams on large-screen TVs, all while choosing from an extensive menu that incorporates snacks, burgers, salads, pizzas, and delectable sandwiches.

Finally, no game day is complete without a grand food finale. The Bearded Pig, with two locations in San Marco and Jacksonville Beach, checks this box perfectly. Damazing barbecue, famous Bearded Poutine, and a fantastic local beer collection await hungry game day enthusiasts.

For those rooting for a cheesy slice after a riveting win, V Pizza's locations sprawl throughout Northeast Florida, including two situated in Jacksonville. These family-friendly joints not only serve delightful brick-oven pizza but also allow patrons to catch up on football scores across their multiple TVs. Maneuver through their menu, and if available, end your culinary excursion with their Pizza Autunno - a blast of autumn flavors on your palate. "And don't miss their signature wings, an absolute must," McLaren advises.