It is no secret that I love baseball. I’m a big Yankees fan (don’t start with me – I’m not a fan of the logo like many are), and if I’m watching TV, more than likely it’s on MLB Network. So when a friend says, “Hey, let’s go to a game”, I’m always up for it, no matter who’s playing. Although my boys weren’t in town, the Red Sox were – and I definitely wasn’t missing that.

Mostly I prefer to sit behind home plate or along the visiting dugout (third base line), but this time Evelyn and I sat in the Torchy’s Party Deck. As a game day enthusiast, I like to look for the best way to casually enjoy a game without having to do too much. If you’re not actually into baseball and are just wanting to enjoy a good atmosphere with friends then the Party Deck is for you. Here are a couple of tips and information for having the best time.

Ticket Price: Tickets are general admission and cost $49 each. With taxes and all the shit unnecessary fees that come with buying tickets, the total price for one ticket was about $58. For those that are unfamiliar with purchasing tickets, click on the map to view seats and click on the Torchy’s Party Deck, or scroll down to Torchy’s Party Deck in the drop-down menu (price range options).

Parking: We parked at Lucky’s (duh) and had a beer there beforehand. Parking ranges from $10 to $40.

Get There Early: Keep in mind that this is a general admission ticket, so unless you want to be standing the entire game, you’ll want to allow for some time to scope out a spot along the bar area. Here is the view from where we sat. You get a nice view of the entire field and overlook the Astros’ bullpen. We got there about two hours (gates open 2 hours prior to first pitch) in advance which was more than enough time. BUT keep in mind the day of the week, and what team is in town, to gauge how early you want to arrive. Now that I have done it, I would say to-be 45 minutes early for a Sunday evening game is early enough.

Food: The complete Torchy’s menu is not offered, but there are a couple of options (Trailer Park Trashy style for me, please!). And of course, Torchy’s queso is on the menu. There is someone that serves you so you do not have to go back and forth to a concession stand. Beer and  If you don’t care for tacos (what’s wrong with you?!) there is a self-service concession stand close by and you can order up what you want. PS: Shake Shack is right down the escalator!

Bring a Group: Ev and I went with just the two of us and when she and I are together we are our own party; however, having a group does make the experience. The largest group I saw was a group of 5 guys and they had to stand around a table (didn’t get there early enough). There were several couples enjoying date night as well.

The best part about the party deck is there is space! Sometimes when you’re seating in the seats, you are sometimes a little close together, or having to deal with people climbing over you to get to the aisle (think of the person that goes to the bar 10 times – annoying). There is room to move and everyone is having a good time.

Until the next game day!

DK