I got an email today from Drew Cieszynski, a Big Ten football fan who is planning to embark on a Big Ten football tour in 2009, hitting all 11 stadiums and the Rose Bowl while chronicling his (and a few friends’) travels at theBig10tour.com. Tailgating and grubbing are two integral parts of the Big 10 football experience, so I’m going to run down my ideal tailgating weekend in Ann Arbor, assuming a Friday evening arrival and a Sunday departure (Note: despite the gushing tone I take when describing these places, I’m not being paid by any of them … they’re just my favorite spots in Ann Arbor):

Friday Night Dinner:

Now THAT'S a sandwich.

They’re world famous for a reason: there’s just no topping a massive sandwich from Zingerman’s Deli, located just a little bit off campus on Detroit Street, in the heart of old downtown Ann Arbor. The ingredients are unparalleled, there’s a ton of different sandwiches to choose from, and you can stuff yourself silly for less than $20. My personal favorite is the Zingerman’s Reuben (#2), but there’s something for everyone on their menu. My mouth is watering as I type this.

Friday Night Drinks:

It doesn't get any fresher than beer brewed on-site.

For a nice calm watering hole to hit the night before the storm, Grizzly Peak provides the perfect combination of laid-back bar and delicious beer. Located on West Washington Street, The Grizzly Den Bar offers five beers brewed on-site year-round, as well as special seasonal brews. My personal favorite is the Victors’ Golden Ale, but those looking for a fuller beer can rest easy, as the Bear Paw Porter is also fantastic. If you love beer, you’ll love Grizzly Peak.

Saturday Morning Tailgate:

Sig Ep is one of the many frats lining State Street that will be going hard on a football Saturday. I'd post a picture of a real tailgate, but don't want to accidentally incriminate somebody for having a good time.

Maybe, as a student, I’m a bit biased, but when it comes to college football tailgates, it’s the college students that do it best. This may sound strange/creepy, but I really think the best way to experience the Michigan tailgate scene is to simply walk down State Street and then make your way through the student ghetto (don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe) towards Michigan Stadium, making the requisite stops at whatever frat or house tailgate happens to catch your eye (and welcomes you in … we’re generally a friendly bunch). No matter the weather (and we’ve seen it all) the students will still be outside, red Solo cup in hand, getting geared up to watch the Wolverines.

Post-Game Dinner/Drink:

Ignore the liquor. At Ashley's, it's all about the taps.

At this point, who really cares about the food? Ashley’s, located on State Street, has solid-enough bar food, but the big draw here is, again, the beer. Just check out (and review) their brews … there’s no bigger selection in Ann Arbor (70 drafts on-tap), and they know their stuff. If you’re willing to drop a little dime, try the Chimay Grand Reserve (Blue Label). I’ve never had a better beer in my life.

Sunday Morning Breakfast:

The only way to leave Ann Arbor ... a big breakfast at Angelo's.

Ask anybody who knows Ann Arbor, and they’ll point you to one place for breakfast: Angelo’s. I don’t even know where to begin: try anything off their breakfast menu, and you’ll be pleased. Just trust me. You won’t be disappointed.

What’s your favorite tailgate spot, bar, or football weekend restaurant? Leave your suggestions in the comments, and make sure to give Drew and the crew a big Michigan welcome when they roll into town for the Penn State game. Remember, they’ll be blogging, so make sure to show them a good time.