Phoenix Restaurants Score Big with WNBA All-Star Game Boost

More than 16,000 fans filled the Footprint Center for Saturday’s game, breathing life into nearby restaurants that usually struggle during the slow season.

PHOENIX — The WNBA All-Star Game offered more than just athletic excitement for thousands of attendees. Fans were thrilled to watch their favorite players, but businesses in downtown Phoenix were the unexpected beneficiaries.

“We saw A’ja Wilson like an hour and a half ago and I’m still shaking,” said Nicole White.

White and her friend Christin Pearson traveled to Phoenix specifically for the All-Star festivities. Their trip had multiple highlights beyond the game itself.

“The opportunity to come and meet different people,” White mentioned. “Local people who welcome you and you get to check out local restaurants. I’m trying everything local.”

“I love the community; the people are awesome and very friendly,” Pearson added.

White and Pearson were among the over 16,000 attendees, soaking in everything Phoenix had to offer. They described their time downtown as unforgettable.

“Phoenix welcomed us well,” Pearson observed.

“Everyone is here to celebrate the same thing,” White noted. “There’s no rivalry; we’re here together to celebrate the W.”

Large crowds kept nearby restaurants bustling. Dog Haus experienced constant customer flow.

“A lot of people are in town,” said Christopher Osborne, General Manager at Dog Haus. “Hotels are booked up, and we’re definitely seeing the increase.”

Dog Haus reopened two months ago under new ownership. Osborne understood the importance of the WNBA All-Star event for the local business scene.

“It gets to show us off and see what we have to offer and what downtown Phoenix has,” he said. “It’s a huge deal to have everyone come in. It’s great to see everyone happy.”

Harrison St. Pierre, owner of The Kettle Black and The Desmond Spirits and Oven, emphasized the significant impact of recent events.

“Even since COVID,” he said. “Having the Suns in the finals, the Diamondbacks in the World Series, and now the All-Star game, it’s great to have so many big events that bring people here.”

This impact is crucial, especially during summer.

“It’s a massive impact,” he added. “Summer is super slow for us, so events like this help every business survive.”

As for visitors, the food, the community, and the festivities contributed to a memorable experience.

“So what does that mean?” asked White. “I’m coming right back. It doesn’t have to be for an All-Star game; I’m coming back to Phoenix next year. I’ll just come in January or February.”

12News contacted the City of Phoenix, but it’s too early to determine the event’s economic impact. However, this year’s activities attracted significantly larger crowds compared to previous years in 2000 and 2014.

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