Coney Island Matchday Guide: Where to Eat, Drink and Celebrate

There’s no matchday quite like one at Maimonides Park. With ocean breeze in the air and a skyline behind the stands, Brooklyn Football Club brings the energy of professional soccer to one of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods. For us, it’s not just a game, but a celebration of sport, community and Brooklyn pride.

As the borough’s first professional women’s soccer team, Brooklyn FC calls Coney Island home — and that home brings serious character. The stadium sits just steps from the beach and boardwalk, making it the perfect destination whether you’re cheering from the supporters’ section or tagging along for your first match. From pre-game bites to post-match drinks and everything in between, this guide has everything you need to make your matchday one to remember.

Pre-Match Fuel: Where to Eat Before Kickoff

A proper soccer match deserves a proper pre-game meal. Thankfully, Coney Island delivers in spades. Just around the corner from the stadium, you’ll find legendary local eats, classic boardwalk bites and a few under-the-radar gems that hit the spot before the whistle blows.

• Nathan’s Famous: It doesn’t get more iconic. Grab a hot dog from the original 1916 stand at Surf and Stillwell — a must-do whether you’re heading to your first Brooklyn FC game or your fifth of the season.
• Totonno’s: If you know, you know. This old-school pizzeria serves up crisp, coal-fired pies with a perfect char. It’s only open a few days a week, but when the stars align, it’s one of the best pre-match meals in the borough.
• Gargiulo’s: A timeless Italian spot with white tablecloths, chandeliers and dishes made for sharing. It’s great for families or anyone turning matchday into a full evening out.
• Footprints Café: Known for its Caribbean comfort food and laid-back vibe, this neighborhood favorite is a go-to for bold flavor and generous plates. Try the Rasta Pasta.
• Quick Eats Near the Subway: Coming in hot? Grab a slice at La Villa Pizzeria or a bite from Pio Pio Riko — both solid options for a fast, tasty meal just steps from the train and the stadium.

Whether you’re here to support every match or just getting to know the team, there’s something special about walking into Maimonides Park with a full belly, a beach breeze and the buzz of a crowd ready to cheer on Brooklyn’s own.

Where to Grab a Drink Before (or After) the Whistle

Pre- and post-match meetups are part of the Brooklyn FC experience. Whether you’re meeting friends before the match or toasting a win after the final whistle, Coney Island has no shortage of spots to raise a glass.

• Margarita Island: Known for its fantastic service, drinks, and prices, Margarita Island is a popular go-to spot for a pre- or post-game drink (or two!). It has a cozy backyard space that’s perfect for locals and visitors alike to people-watch and unwind during the summer, and just steps away from the boardwalk.
• Ruby’s Bar & Grill: A boardwalk institution with a loyal following and plenty of character. Grab a drink, soak in the beach views and enjoy the mix of longtime locals and soccer fans. It’s casual, quirky and full of Brooklyn spirit.
• Freak Bar at Coney Island USA: Part bar, part performance space, this spot is for the bold. If you’re into sideshow art, oddball decor and strong cocktails, it’s worth a stop — just a few blocks from the stadium.
• Boardwalk Happy Hour Vibes: Stroll along the boardwalk and you’ll find plenty of patio bars serving cold drinks and beach views. Whether you’re into frozen cocktails or a simple beer with a sea breeze, there’s something here for every kind of fan.

Game On: Navigating Matchday at Maimonides Park

Located right on Surf Avenue, Maimonides Park offers one of the most unique backdrops in all of professional soccer: palm trees (yes, really), ocean views and a stadium packed with local pride. Here’s how to make the most of your matchday:

• Getting There: The stadium is easily accessible by subway — take the D, F, N or Q to Stillwell Avenue, just a short walk from the gates. If you’re driving, metered street parking and nearby paid lots are available, but public transit is your best bet on busy days.
• When to Arrive: Gates open 60–90 minutes before kickoff. Get there early to explore, find your seats and enjoy the pre-game buzz. There’s often music, merch, local vendors and more set up around the park.
• Where to Sit (or Stand): Whether you’re behind the goal with the supporters’ section or in the shade along the first base line, every seat has a view of the action and a bit of Coney Island character. Looking for a family-friendly section? Staff will point you in the right direction.
• What to Eat: The stadium itself features a rotating lineup of local food vendors — from empanadas to ice cream — along with classic stadium fare. Lines can build up during halftime, so plan ahead if you’re craving something specific.
• What to Bring: Your Brooklyn FC scarf, of course. But also sunscreen, a light jacket (it gets breezy by the water) and plenty of team spirit.

Grab tickets here!

Celebrate the Win (or Keep the Party Going)

When the final whistle blows, the night’s just getting started, win, lose or draw. Maimonides Park lets out into one of the most vibrant stretches of Coney Island, where you can turn a match into a full-on night out. Here are some of our favorite spots:

• Back to the Bar: Located right on Surf Avenue, Buck-it Sports Bar & Latin Grill is a lively spot to gather after a game, especially when fans spill out still buzzing from the action. With plenty of TVs and both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for cheering on your favorite team over authentic Puerto Rican fare. Expect post-match chants, debriefs and maybe a toast to the goal of the night.
• Late-Night Eats on the Boardwalk: Craving something sweet? Grab funnel cake, cotton candy or a cone from Williams Candy. If you’re still hungry, many boardwalk vendors serve food late, whether you’re in the mood for loaded fries, tacos or a final slice of pizza.
• Beach Walks and Boardwalk Vibes: One of the perks of a home match at Maimonides Park? You can cool down with a moonlit stroll along the beach or hop on the Wonder Wheel for a nighttime view of the neighborhood. It’s part amusement, part nostalgia and 100% Brooklyn.

Make It a Day: More to Explore Around the Match

With everything that Coney Island has to offer, a Brooklyn FC match is the perfect excuse to spend the whole day seaside, especially when the sun is shining and the boardwalk is buzzing.

• Luna Park & The Cyclone: Kick things off with a few rides before kickoff — the legendary wooden Cyclone coaster is a thrill ride you’ll hear fans shouting about almost as much as a game-winning goal.
• New York Aquarium: Great for families or anyone looking to arrive early and explore. It’s a short walk from the stadium and features sea lions, sharks and interactive exhibits.
• Coney Island Art Walls & Murals: Snap some photos near large-scale street art installations that line the blocks near the park. They’re bold, Brooklyn and made for your matchday photo album.
• Historic Sideshows & Arcade Games: Get a taste of Coney’s offbeat history at Sideshows by the Seashore or duck into an old-school arcade for some pre-game competition of your own.

Whether you’re coming from across the borough or across the city, a day that ends with soccer at Maimonides Park is a day well spent. And with Brooklyn FC making history on the pitch, every match is a chance to be part of something bigger — a growing movement of fans, community and pride in the heart of Coney Island.

Plan Your Next Matchday Adventure

Matchday at Maimonides Park captures everything Brooklyn FC stands for: passion, pride and the start of something bigger for women’s soccer in the borough. With the beach as your backdrop and the borough behind every chant, there’s no better way to spend a day than cheering on Brooklyn’s first professional women’s soccer club in the place we call home.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just discovering the team, every match is a new chapter in a story being written right here in Coney Island. So grab your friends, bring your family and make a day of it.

Check the schedule and come be part of the energy — we’ll see you in the stands.

FAQs

1. What time should I arrive for a Brooklyn FC game at Maimonides Park?

Gates typically open 60–90 minutes before kickoff. Arriving early lets you beat the crowds, grab food and explore the boardwalk.

2. Are there family-friendly activities near the stadium?

Absolutely — the boardwalk, beach, Luna Park and New York Aquarium are all within walking distance of the park and perfect for kids.

3. Where can I buy Brooklyn FC merchandise?

You can grab official merch at the stadium on matchday or check out the online store for the latest kits, scarves and more.

4. What’s the vibe like at Brooklyn FC games?

Electric, diverse and local. Expect chants, drums, diehard fans bringing Brooklyn pride and more, all set against a backdrop of ocean breeze and boardwalk lights.

5. Where can you buy tickets for the games?

Buy tickets here!