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Staff Picks: Favorite Ballpark Food

There are few things that are more important to the game day experience than food. Whether fans are making the trip to the stadium, tailgating in the parking lot or firing up the grill back home, a good spread can compliment a big win, or help salvage the day if your team is on the losing end. 

In this week’s edition of “Staff Picks,” the sports staff picked their favorite foods to eat on game day. 

Jonathan Michel, Contributor: Nachos

Nachos are my favorite game day food for many reasons, but mainly because they can be served with different options. 

Fully loaded nachos with heaps of meat, guacamole and jalapeños are favorable, but the simple chips-and-cheese variation satisfies as well. It’s one food on the menu that will last you the entire game. 

A hot dog? Done in two minutes. A pretzel? Maybe five minutes. However, a plate of nachos keeps you from going back to the concourse for more exorbitantly priced concessions. Bonus points to teams who serve nachos in a life-sized batting helmet. 

Larry Larson, Sports Chef: Guaranteed Rate Field Irish Nachos 

From Churros to Beggar’s Pizza, Chicago’s south side ballpark has a food offering to satisfy every fan’s cravings. For me, Irish Nachos never fail to hit the spot like a well-located fastball. 

The combination of waffle fries, nacho cheese, bacon bits, green onions and a handful of other topping options puts a heavier-hitting spin on the original ballpark nacho. Its rich flavor always leaves me satisfied. 

After polishing off a green souvenir helmet’s full, I don’t have to think about the concession stand for the rest of the ballgame. 

Joey Wright, Sports Sous Chef: Busch Stadium’s Tater Tot Nachos

Typically, I don’t go in for anything crazy while I’m at the ballpark. If I order a souvenir cup at Bankers Life Fieldhouse or Dippin’ Dots at State Farm Center, I was feeling like a high roller at that game. 

During a 2019 game at Busch Stadium, though, I decided to break from my ways and order the tater tot nachos from a concession stand behind the bleachers. The “nachos,” which start with tater tots as the chips, are topped with queso, pico de gallo, jalapeños, olives, lettuce and more. Served in a large box shaped like a home plate, this is an offering sure to feed even the hungriest baseball fan.

Oh, and my least favorite item I’ve ever eaten at a sporting event? A hot dog from the Tremont High School concession stand. Clutch Sports Media: not just moments, violently ill moments. 

Nick Zoll, Contributor: Frozen Lemonade 

Growing up a Dodgers fan in Southern California, I’ve been to my fair share of games where the heat becomes almost unbearable. One of the best ways to enjoy a baseball game in these circumstances is with a cup of frozen lemonade. 

Traditionally, ice cream may be America’s choice for a spectator mired in the dog days of summer. However, frozen lemonade can often be a cheaper, more refreshing alternative. A combination of tangy and sweet, this iced treat is always a staple at any ballpark.

Mason Klemm, Contributor: Hot Dog (with ketchup)

While it may be pretty basic, nothing compares to enjoying a hot dog with ketchup during a day at the ballpark. 

The beauty of the hot dog is in its simplicity, as anyone can make it for themselves or for other people. It’s easy to carry and easy to eat, so you can enjoy the game from the comfort of your seat without having to worry about tables or silverware. Pair it with a nice, refreshing soda and some chips or fries, and you have got yourself a tasty meal.

Jacob Steinberg, Contributor: Hot Dog (without ketchup)

The food that truly defines a nice summer day at the ballpark is a hot dog with NO ketchup. 

Do you really put ketchup on your hot dog? If you do, come on! 

Eating a hot dog with ketchup is as amateur as it comes. The sweetness of ketchup completely ruins the taste.

If you want to get the best flavor, the best toppings to put on this American staple are as follows: mustard, relish, celery salt, onions and a pickle. 

It may seem a bit complicated, but don’t knock it until you try it. Those condiments allow for a mix of sweet and savory. Just remember, never put ketchup on a hot dog.

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