4 Tailgating Recipes With Local Flavor

Updated on Jan 14, 2015 at 6:00 AM

Make no mistake — there's no wrong way to tailgate. That being said, chances are your experience will fall into one of two categories: the good . . . and the great. How to ensure your next encounter will be a brush with tailgate greatness? Whether you're hosting your own party or looking for a standout dish to make and take, try one of these mouthwatering recipes inspired by the cities your favorite teams call home!

We're talkin' N'awlins-style muffalettas, vegetarian specialties straight out of San Diego, Phoenix-friendly Tex-Mex tacos, and more. And if you're really looking to raise the "bar" (pun intended!), go beyond the wine and beer, and mix up a batch of Smirnoff Ice Screwdriver Sangrias.

Ready to create your own team showdown — at the buffet table? Get started with the recipes below.

Source: Sara Yoo, Nicole Perry, POPSUGAR Food, Lauren Hendrickson

NYC: Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

These bacon-wrapped hot dogs can be upscale, especially if they're passed around at a place like Hudson Mercantile, like we did on Nov. 3 for our Ladies With Game Tailgate tour. And come game day? You can find us double-fisting with a cold drink in one hand and this juicy treat in the other.

San Diego: Veggie Tacos With Grilled Guacamole

This veggie taco recipe, which is packed with fresh produce, calls for bell peppers, zucchini, squash, corn, and eggplant, all of which feel right at home when you're noshing in the healthy seaside city of San Diego.

New Orleans: Muffuletta

Though lesser known than the Big Easy's other big-bread creation, the po' boy, the muffuletta is just as delectable and packed with piles of ham, salami, mortadella, and provolone cheese. Perfect for sharing with your own Ladies With Game, like we did at Rosy's Jazz Hall in NoLa on Oct. 23!

Dallas: Pork Carnitas

While often deep fried or oven braised, this taco-truck staple is just as comfortable on its own as it is served beside carne asada and chorizo. This dish can even be elevated enough to be served to our favorite Ladies With Game during our tailgate tour at a place as classy as Three Three Three First Avenue in Dallas, TX!

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. PLEASE ONLY SHARE THIS WITH THOSE 21+. SMIRNOFF ICE PREMIUM FLAVORED MALT BEVERAGES. ©2014 THE SMIRNOFF CO., NORWALK, CT.