Impact of Sports Tourism – Restaurants

With over 300 food and/or beverage options in Rochester, there is a lot to cheer about when it comes to sports tourism.

Sport related tourism has become more prominent in the last few years and while many industries are impacted by the influx of sport families and fans, food service has been one of the uppermost benefactors.

“We definitely notice an increase in sales across all of our locations when there are sports in town,” said Ashley King with Creative Cuisine -Newts, Purple Goat, City Market and the Redwood Room. “Tournaments are especially helpful in the summer as weekends are typically slower. We also love the energy these teams bring to all of our establishments!”

The increase of sports teams are back to pre-Covid levels and this has been experienced by our restaurants helping them to a great serving of benefits.  When our restaurants are successful, jobs are created for all ages, menus are expanded and services are increased.

“Sports team are a valuable part of the Rochester area and a benefit to all businesses. Team tournaments and events bring players along with coaches, trainers, family and spectators to stay, eat and explore our great city.  Rochester is a great destination and youth sports are a benefit to weekend events and hospitality,” stated Jim Nichols, Owner of Wildwood Restaurant and Bar.

Sports tourism has helped the Rochester restaurant business grow. Beside the standard American, Italian and Mexican cuisine, the city also offers African, Caribbean, Greek, Indian, and Mediterranean. This is a benefit to both visitors and local residents. Whether you have an appetite for one sport over another, the sports tourism industry does increase business for local industry and offers a growing menu of options for local restaurants and diners.