Whether you’re a Middlesbrough supporter or part of the travelling away contingent, matchdays at the Riverside Stadium are all about simplicity, good value, and Teesside tradition.
The venue sits slightly outside the town centre, so most fans either drink and eat near Middlesbrough Station before walking over, or use the small number of tried-and-tested spots close to the ground itself.
FootballGroundGuide takes a look at the best options to help save you time ahead of your trip:
Best Pubs for Fans Near Riverside Stadium
One of the most convenient pubs for home supporters is Six Medals, which sits right next to the Riverside Stadium. The proximity alone makes it popular, but it also handles matchday crowds well and is ideal for a quick pre- or post-match pint.
For away fans, The Isaac Wilson is the standout option. It is located just 100 metres from Middlesbrough railway station, it’s a large town-centre pub that welcomes travelling supporters, opens early, and serves food throughout the day. Many away fans use it as a meeting point before making the walk to the stadium.
Another option worth knowing about is The Albion Social Club, located in South Bank. It is more of a traditional social club setting and is regularly used by football fans on matchdays.
Classic Matchday Food Spots Close to Riverside Stadium
No visit to Middlesbrough on a matchday is complete without sampling a Parmo, and these are the places locals swear by.
Manjaros on Linthorpe Road is the most famous Parmo spot in town. Portions are huge, variations are endless, and it’s a true Teesside institution.
If you want something quicker, Manjaros Express offers a takeaway-style version that’s ideal if you want to grab food and head towards the ground.
Another solid option is Smoky Boro, which specialises in grilled chicken and Parmo-style dishes, perfect for a quick pre-match bite.
Restaurants and Cafes By Riverside Stadium
If you’re arriving via Middlesbrough Station or spending time in town before walking to the Riverside, there are plenty of good sit-down options.
Panuozzos is a favourite for Italian sandwiches and hot dishes and works well before the walk to the stadium.
Central Park Middlesbrough is a long-standing local favourite offering burgers, pasta, and classic comfort food in a relaxed setting.
For something lighter, UNDERGO is a small but highly rated cafe serving coffee, pastries, and light bites.
The Bedford Street area is also well known for its mix of cafés and bars and is particularly popular with families on matchdays.
Quick Fast Food Options Near Riverside Stadium
Most major chains are clustered around Middlesbrough Station and the town centre, roughly a 15–20 minute walk from the stadium.
You can expect the usual places dotted around town, including McDonald's, KFC, Subway and Greggs, while Pepe's Piri Piri can offer something a bit different at similar speeds.
FGG Verdict: Where Should You Go?
If you want the easiest pre-match pint, Six Medals is unbeatable for convenience, sitting right next to the Riverside Stadium.
Away fans are best served starting at The Isaac Wilson near the station before making the walk to the ground.
And if you’re only eating one thing in Middlesbrough, make it a Parmo from Manjaros, as it is as much a part of the matchday experience as the football itself in Teesside.