Stadium Food

For my first blog post in this food culture class, I figured it could be a good idea to combine the topic of food with something else near and dear to my heart: sports! Growing up in New York I became endeared to many local sports teams; particularly the New York Mets, New York Knicks, and New York Jets. Experiences at games for each of these teams are entirely different, which largely applies to the food available. Given my experience attending games at both Shea Stadium and Citi Field (the new home of the Mets), Madison Square Garden, and the New Meadlowlands, I'll give a brief overview of the food quality at each, to go along with a letter grade.

Shea Stadium: C-. Shea Stadium was the home of the Mets until the year 2009, when they moved to Citi Field. Shea had plenty of positive qualities, particularly cheap ticket prices. Their food situation, on the other hand, left much to be desired. Prices were generally manageable, but unless you're the type to be content with only Chicken Fingers or Hotdogs at a game, you were out of luck. Being that I lived nearby and security outside the stadium was mediocre at best, the way to go was sneak in sandwiches and other such lunch items for a day game.

Citi Field: A. With a new improved stadium came new improved meal options; at Citi Field fans can choose from a vast array of food options, such as seafood, mexican food, barbecue, as well as others. Prices are a tad elevated due to expenses for the new park, but it's well worth the quality of food.

Madison Square Garden: F. In addition to dealing with the Knicks, another negative of attending Knicks games were the issue of obtaining food during breaks. Seemingly always with one unfortunate individual working the counter and preparing food for countless hungry fans, Madison Square Garden doesn't seem to put much effort into concession stands. Food options are countless, ranging all of the way from hot dogs, to cracker jacks, and literally nothing in between. Twenty dollars spent on a Snapple and hot dog later, and I would cringe wondering why I didn't merely eat before the game.

New Meadlowlands: C. The food at the New Meadlowlands is very good for a professional sports arena. Options may be few, but when I have to endure a three hour game in the blistering cold, it's nice knowing that soup, coffee, or tea is always available. Prices are entirely too expensive (I spent ten dollars on a cheeseburger the last game I attended), but I suppose I had it coming being that I didn't tailgate before the game.