Food at Citi Field

[mdnash]

So far I have eaten a burger from shake shack (amazing), a pulled pork sandwich from blue smoke (amazing), frites and bacon dipping sauce (best fries in the park?) and the fried fish sandwich from catch of the day (best kept secret!).

well, ive also had a mama's special at citi but ive had so many of those at the restaurant and shea over the years i wouldnt count it.

what has everyone else tried so far at citi and what did you think of the food at Citi Field?

[Spadanko]

I had the steak tacos (awesome) and the Frites with the bacon dipping sauce... so damn good

[peterrod16]

I had shake burger and fries very good for the college game
yesterday i had a sausage sandwich which was excellent
plus i had chicken, sirloin steak and mini hot dogs in the delta club
chicken was my favorite

did anyone post this article

http://www.nypost.com/seven/04052009/entertainment/food/snack_attack__163014.htm

The Mets have handed the Bronx Bombers their first loss of the season.

In the Subway Series of sustenance between the Big Apple's two brand-new ballparks, the Amazin's spanked the crosstown rival Yankees, offering better food and more variety, according to Food Network darling Sandra Lee.

Lee -- a Westchester resident who stars on her own show and has authored 16 cookbooks -- joined The Post at both Citi Field and the new Yankee Stadium during exhibition games Friday night, sampling everything from french fries to fried pickles in an unofficial tasting.

In the end, the Mets homered with their game-day grub, while the Yankees struck out.

"I really hate to say it, but it's no contest," said Lee, a Yankee fan. "I think Yankee Stadium is a warmer venue. But I am really, really disappointed in the food."

The most obvious difference was between the hamburgers -- Lee tried a $5.75 cheeseburger at Danny Meyer's Shake Shack at Citi Field and a $9 Johnny Rockets burger at Yankee Stadium.

"That is better than an In-N-Out burger, and that's tough to do," Lee said as she munched on the Shake Shack offering. "The ground beef is lovely. It's juicy and tender. The lettuce is crisp. The bun is warm and toasted. The small, little tomatoes are a miss, but it's very good."

The Johnny Rockets burger didn't score as high. "The beef is dry," she said. "Look at it. It crumbles. The cheese is barely melted. It's not even hot. Not good."

A $10 pulled-pork sandwich from Brother Jimmy's BBQ at Yankee Stadium got slightly better reviews, although Lee said, "It's pretty dry. And the pork is not pulled. It's just shredded." A side of $8 fried pickles didn't help the restaurant's case. "Horrible," she said. "These were cold and had a strange taste."

At Blue Smoke at Citi Field, a $9 pulled-pork sandwich also featured shredded pork, but Lee liked it a lot better -- despite chunks of fat visibly sitting in the meat.

"It's tender and juicy, but it has so much fat, how could it not be," said Lee.

Lee was particularly impressed with Citi Field's Mexican offerings -- she ordered a $9.75 taco combo that featured chicken mole, carnitas and marinated skirt steak.

"The meat is unbelievable," she said. "The carnitas are excellent with lots of great flavor, but hotter than heck with the sauce." At Yankee Stadium, a $9 nachos supreme covered in ground beef, guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese and sour cream didn't measure up. "It's just ordinary," Lee said.

She preferred the variety of choices at Citi Field, as well. The park has a fish stand called "Catch of the Day," where she enjoyed a $9.50 dish of fried calamari and a $17 lobster roll.

The one item where the Yankees scored higher was french fries -- Lee loved the team's garlic fries, which sell for $6 or $9 depending on the size. "These are 'God Bless America' good," she said. "I need that recipe."

[alpineinc]

The Shake Shack burger is pretty much a grand slam - everyone simply raves about it, including me (had 2 at 2 games already) - and the Shack-Cago Dog is pretty damn good, very unique concoction, all fresh, all good.

Only have had the pulled pork at Big Smoke (great, little small for $9), dying to try the ribs next that everyone raves about.

+1 for the Frites with the bacon sauce, killer. House mayo is like a mustard/mayo kind of thing and wasn't bad, and I've yet to try the other sauces, but the bacon is a great start there.

I've lived on Mama's at Shea for years (the usual turkey/mozz - with extra gravy!), so that's always recommended, although I haven't had it yet at Citi.

Have yet to hit the Taqueria or the Catch Of The Day. Is the $9.75 taco combo the way to go? How's the COTD chowder?

[metsfanbook]

I have to say that I was astounded at how good and how reasonably priced the Shake burger was. You certainly couldn't have gotten a hamburger of that quality at Shea. I also like the fact that you can get sauerkraut for your hot dogs virtually everywhere. The Belgian frites were also very good. My only disappointment was the Taste of the City area. They had said that they were going to offer ethnic food representative of the great culinary diversity of NY. All they had was a Japanese place, a Mexican place, and an Italian sandwich place. I didn't try the food and it might very well be excellent, but given the incredible diversity of New York, and Queens and Roosevelt Avenue in particular, I think they could have offered a few options that aren't available in every suburb. Still, for good old ballpark food, Citi Field appears to be first-rate.

[Yankees12]

I don't ever get food at ballparks (I prefer to eat outside/beforehand), but it seems like Citi has top of the line food options. I remember going to the World's Fare in the RF corner and just drooling at some of the options there (especially some of the cakes). And Shake Shack >>>>> Johnny Rocket's. There's no contest there.

That said, the Farmer's Market at NYS does seem a bit cool. I couldn't find the retro beers stand though... not that it matters for someone under 21 like myself. ;)

[mdnash]

The Shake Shack burger is pretty much a grand slam - everyone simply raves about it, including me (had 2 at 2 games already) - and the Shack-Cago Dog is pretty damn good, very unique concoction, all fresh, all good.

Only have had the pulled pork at Big Smoke (great, little small for $9), dying to try the ribs next that everyone raves about.

+1 for the Frites with the bacon sauce, killer. House mayo is like a mustard/mayo kind of thing and wasn't bad, and I've yet to try the other sauces, but the bacon is a great start there.

I've lived on Mama's at Shea for years (the usual turkey/mozz - with extra gravy!), so that's always recommended, although I haven't had it yet at Citi.

Have yet to hit the Taqueria or the Catch Of The Day. Is the $9.75 taco combo the way to go? How's the COTD chowder?

I saw someone eating the chowder today and they really seemed to enjoy it. I already started saving up for one of those lobster rolls...

[nymdan]

I've had burgers at Shake Shack, the pulled pork at Blue Smoke, Box Frites (with the Chipotle Ketchup and the Chopped Manzanilla Olive & Pepperoncini dipping sauces... wasn't crazy about either... I'll try the Smoked Bacon one next time), the chowder at Catch of the Day, Mama's Special at Mama's of Corona, and a salmon roll at Daruma.

[enysteez]

Ive had the Double Shack Burger(outstanding, truly) the Shack Fries(meh, just fries, I like Nathans fries better especially with cheese) the vanilla Shack Shake(good but not great).

I look forward to trying either the pulled pork or ribs from Blue Smoke(one or the other not both, too much dough lol) and maybe box frites with bacon dipping sauce. Id love to try the tacos and catch of the day eats but after Opening Day which i consider special and will attend sans wife and kids, every other game i will bring my own sandwiches. Regular old ham n cheese baby lol.

Still trying to find out where to get that kids special of a hot dog, soda and chips for $5?

[RayNY]

Double Shack Burger (amazing, simply the best)

sweet italian sausage (delicious and convenient to get)

canole from World's Fair (satisfies my sweet tooth)

beer battered onion rings (perfect snack to go with your beer)

Nathan's hot dog (can't go wrong with that)

So far I haven't even scratched the surface. Obviously I want to try Blue Smoke next... and maybe actually get a 'shake' from Shake Shack. I also want to try the tacos and the sushi. Has anyone tried the sushi there?

[The House That Ruth Built]

... and maybe actually get a 'shake' from Shake Shack.

They're ok, but not great, but man were those burgers AMAZING!

[nymdan]

Has anyone tried the sushi there?
Yeah, it's good. Pricey, though.

[MetsFan24]

two quick questions..taking notes for my first trip to citi on OD lol:
1. Where exactly is taste of the city? Is it by the Pepsi Porch?
2. Who's got the smoked bacon dipping sauce everybodys raving about? Blue Smoke?

[NJTankMets]

two quick questions..taking notes for my first trip to citi on OD lol:
1. Where exactly is taste of the city? Is it by the Pepsi Porch?
2. Who's got the smoked bacon dipping sauce everybodys raving about? Blue Smoke?

Tatste of the city is one level below the Pepsi porch, and its where the old skyline is, along with the Shake Shack and Blue Smoke

[enysteez]

two quick questions..taking notes for my first trip to citi on OD lol:
1. Where exactly is taste of the city? Is it by the Pepsi Porch?
2. Who's got the smoked bacon dipping sauce everybodys raving about? Blue Smoke?

Taste of the City is behind the centerfield scoreboard/concourse area.

Box Frites(located in taste of the city) has the fries belgian fries with various dipping sauces.

[mdnash]

some of the stands will have corn dogs for a buck cheaper than hot dogs i think. i look forward to eating some of those too

[MetsFan24]

Tatste of the city is one level below the Pepsi porch, and its where the old skyline is, along with the Shake Shack and Blue Smoke

Taste of the City is behind the centerfield scoreboard/concourse area.

Box Frites(located in taste of the city) has the fries belgian fries with various dipping sauces.

Ok, thanks. They should have a food venue map like there's a seating map lol.

[VekterNYM]

I had my birthday at Blue Smoke on Wednesday, so when I went to Citi on Friday & Saturday I'd be able to compare...but unfortunately those lines were packed beyond belief. Maybe on Opening Day I can try some if I get there early enough.

When I went to US Cellular Field in August, I was disappointed that I didn't get to try elotes, when I was walking around the park on Saturday I saw a "coming soon" over the menu at the taqueria. I can't wait to try them.

[CoreyNYC]

Best deal at the ballpark BY FAR are the Blue Smoke Ribs. 5 HUGE ribs for $10, probably cheaper than if you had a sit down meal at the their Manhattan restaurant.

I had the 3 taco combo and they are all very good but for $9.75, not filling enough for me (I'm 6'2, 220 lbs). I am eagerly awaiting the Mexican Corn to be available at that stand. I love getting it elsewhere and at $3.50 will be one of the better deals in the whole stadium.

The Box Frites aren't anything special and I think they are a rip off at $7.50 for a large. I've mentioned this in the CF thread but they can't hold a candle to Pommes Frites on 2nd Ave. I'd sooner have the Nathans or Shack fries...and I am waiting for Catch of the Day to serve the fries that Joe Pasternack has claimed will be the best at CF.

Shake Shack has been my favorite NYC burger for a while now and the CF version doesn't disappoint. Haven't had their custard yet at CF but I love that too.

The grandma slices at Cascarino's look REALLY GD but there is no way in hell I will ever pay $5.50 for a slice. If they were $3.50 ($1 more than a pizzeria on the street), I'd be all over it.

I saw someone eating the Boneless Buffalo Wings (aka Chicken strips w/Buffalo sauce) from a regular stand. Will probably grab those one day soon...along with some Mama's.

As for beer selections, my assumption/hope is that there will be a better selection around the park for Opening Day. We have yet to see Six Point appear anywhere and they will be selling it there. The lack of plastic & metal bottles at CF is strange, I think that will change as well. I'm sure there will be CF Bud bottles at some point.

[RazorRamon]

Got the Single Shack burger... awesome. Fries from Shake Shack were ok, nothing extraordinary.

Then tried the shrimp po' boy at Catch of the Day... phenomenal. It was $12.75, which seems pricy, but it is shrimp (and there was a lot of them on it). It is definitely spicy as there are pickled peppers on it, along with mustard seed sauce. I want to go back to Citi just for this! Also had the fries, which had a bunch of seasoning on them.... not that special.

[tomzpc]

The sausage and pepper stands still rule. Had the hot sausage yesterday and loved it.

I enjoyed the Shake Shack burger and fries at the college game. Just wish it wasn't so far from my seats considering that there is NO PLACE to sit or lean in the centerfield area. Even the walls have sloped tops so you can't place your tray down.

Just realized that I've been in this park three times, been to my seats in the prom. reserved three times, yet I still haven't visited the promenade courtyard area behind home plate. What do they have there to eat?

One big complaint, I have yet to see a GOOD draft beer (Brooklyn or Sam Adams for instance like they had at Shea) outside of the restaurant stands.
I'll be bummed if I have to settle for the brooklyn lager from a can all season. :cry:

[enysteez]

The sausage and pepper stands still rule. Had the hot sausage yesterday and loved it.

I enjoyed the Shake Shack burger and fries at the college game. Just wish it wasn't so far from my seats considering that there is NO PLACE to sit or lean in the centerfield area. Even the walls have sloped tops so you can't place your tray down.

Just realized that I've been in this park three times, been to my seats in the prom. reserved three times, yet I still haven't visited the promenade courtyard area behind home plate. What do they have there to eat?

One big complaint, I have yet to see a GOOD draft beer (Brooklyn or Sam Adams for instance like they had at Shea) outside of the restaurant stands.
I'll be bummed if I have to settle for the brooklyn lager from a can all season. :cry:

There are picnic tables and stand up tables in centerfield and in the food court

[alpineinc]

Borrowing from the Shake Shack's online map, here are the Taste Of The City locations:

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj90/alpineinc/shakeshackcitiloc3.jpg

And I agree, the drafts have got to be stepped up, big time. The only savior is the dedicated beer building in CF ("beer" on map) which actually has a great selection of domestic and imported bottled beers including some sweet Belgians (my absolute favorite, Hoegaarden, is there, also Leffe), Red Hook, some other greats...

[tomzpc]

There are picnic tables and stand up tables in centerfield and in the food court

Well, that's good. There were none in CF for the St. John's game.

[tomzpc]

Borrowing from the Shake Shack's online map, here are the Taste Of The City locations:

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj90/alpineinc/shakeshackcitiloc3.jpg

And I agree, the drafts have got to be stepped up, big time. The only savior is the dedicated beer building in CF ("beer" on map) which actually has a great selection of domestic and imported bottled beers including some sweet Belgians (my absolute favorite, Hoegaarden, is there, also Leffe), Red Hook, some other greats...

How much are the beers there? Any good IPA's? :nod:

[elancaster]

I had the $9.75 taco combo and boy, was it ever good! Caveat though - two of the corn tortillas had slits in their bottoms. There were no plastic spoons in sight, so I had to eat like an animal what fell off. One of the sauces was spicy as hell. Didn't get to appreciate too much as the game was about to start. I also got a Brooklyn beer on tap. All told it was $17.25. I was there Fri. 4/3.

Isn't some stand supposed to have a shrimp hot dog or is the aforementioned shrimp po' boy the supposed shrimp dog? The line at Catch of the Day was obscenely long and I didn't even get a good look at the menu except for the $17+ lobster roll.

Next time - 4/28 - I'll see about getting there early enough to try the Shake Shack. Again, the lines on Friday were long, as they were at pretty much every food stand, especially during the 1-hour rain delay. At least our Metsies won the game, shutting up a gaggle of 20-something Red Sox trolls chanting like little girls and also singing Sweet Caroline. They were under the Acela club. When K-Rod came, they booed and were shouted down. When the last Red Sox batter was punched out, they disappeared in a flash.

[alpineinc]

How much are the beers there? Any good IPA's? :nod:

If I recall (bought beers all over) they were very reasonable, $7 or $7.50. Not sure about pale ales, I'll definitely check it out next time. They actually had a typed out list in plastic on the counter, with everyone reading it over - didn't notice the list until after I bought (just saw the big selection in the cooler), will have to check it out, maybe I'll get a picture of it!

[trucky941]

I had the steak tacos (awesome) and the Frites with the bacon dipping sauce... so damn good



What is the bacon dipping sauce? cheese and bacon?

[alpineinc]

What is the bacon dipping sauce? cheese and bacon?

Like a ranch with bacon bits (probably real bacon) in it.

[tomzpc]

If I recall (bought beers all over) they were very reasonable, $7 or $7.50. Not sure about pale ales, I'll definitely check it out next time. They actually had a typed out list in plastic on the counter, with everyone reading it over - didn't notice the list until after I bought (just saw the big selection in the cooler), will have to check it out, maybe I'll get a picture of it!

I'll check it out on OD. Still want drafts though. A good draft is always better than the same beer bottled, especially at a ball game! So far I've been drinking the Brooklyn Lagers that they pour from a can. Good, but not great.

[peterrod16]

Food at the delta club.
Chicken with salad on top
Sirloin Steak with Mashed Potatoes
Crab cakes.
last pic was from the grab and go section
they had mini hot dogs with chips
shrimp dog(i believe)


From the menu the mets will do a la carte
if i remeber $26 for steak and mashed potatoes.
If you have a Delta Gold or plantiium ticket the food is included with your ticket.

[CoreyNYC]

It tasted like sour cream & bacon to me.

What is the bacon dipping sauce? cheese and bacon?

[BMF]

Food at the delta club.
Chicken with salad on top
Sirloin Steak with Mashed Potatoes
Crab cakes.
last pic was from the grab and go section
they had mini hot dogs with chips
shrimp dog(i believe)


From the menu the mets will do a la carte
if i remeber $26 for steak and mashed potatoes.
If you have a Delta Gold or plantiium ticket the food is included with your ticket.

ive gotta tell you that looks good. But im still hooked on the double shack. is that not the best burger youve ever tasted

[enysteez]

ive gotta tell you that looks good. But im still hooked on the double shack. is that not the best burger youve ever tasted

I have a feeling the Double Shack Burger is gonna be the best eats in the park. Even a regular Shack Burger is good eatin.

Still, after the game you can go over to Jackson Hole on Astoria Blvd and have yourself one of their famous, monster sized burgers. They are awesome.

[peterrod16]

I have a feeling the Double Shack Burger is gonna be the best eats in the park. Even a regular Shack Burger is good eatin.

Still, after the game you can go over to Jackson Hole on Astoria Blvd and have yourself one of their famous, monster sized burgers. They are awesome.

:D
Jackson hole burgers are my favorite
they claim 8 oz but its more like 10oz
they have one in englewood NJ and four in NY
how far is the Jackson hole from the 7 train enysteez?

[thrill5one6]

I had hot chocolate Sunday morning. It was in a medium dunkin donuts cup for $3. An upgrade from last year's $3 small red cup.:coffee

[enysteez]

:D
Jackson hole burgers are my favorite
they claim 8 oz but its more like 10oz
they have one in englewood NJ and four in NY
how far is the Jackson hole from the 7 train enysteez?

The Jackson Hole is probably right in between the Astoria Blvd. on the N and 74th St on the 7. In both cases that's a LONG walk. If I had to say one was closer I'd say the Astoria Blvd. N stop is closer but I probably would skip it all together if Im not driving lol.

But yeah the burger is likea good 10oz I agree it's HUGE. But it's not just size cause it is very good. I recommend it to everyone. I know theres another one on Bell Blvd too but to me the original one is the best.

[tomzpc]

I have a feeling the Double Shack Burger is gonna be the best eats in the park. Even a regular Shack Burger is good eatin.

Still, after the game you can go over to Jackson Hole on Astoria Blvd and have yourself one of their famous, monster sized burgers. They are awesome.

How much $ are the Double Shacks? Had a shack burger at the St.Johns game and it was real good but too small. I'm guessing that they're 1/4 pound burgers? Anyone know?

[CoreyNYC]

Jackson Hole is just big & sloppy, it is definitely not the best around. I don't think it is near the 7 at all

:D
Jackson hole burgers are my favorite
they claim 8 oz but its more like 10oz
they have one in englewood NJ and four in NY
how far is the Jackson hole from the 7 train enysteez?

[enysteez]

I had hot chocolate Sunday morning. It was in a medium dunkin donuts cup for $3. An upgrade from last year's $3 small red cup.:coffee

Was it watery? Im a coffee guy myself but my wife and daughter love hot chocolate and always complained that Shea hot chocolate was like brown water and disgusting.

[CoreyNYC]

Double is $8.75 and I don't think the burgers are 1/4 lb, probably smaller.

How much $ are the Double Shacks? Had a shack burger at the St.Johns game and it was real good but too small. I'm guessing that they're 1/4 pound burgers? Anyone know?

[enysteez]

How much $ are the Double Shacks? Had a shack burger at the St.Johns game and it was real good but too small. I'm guessing that they're 1/4 pound burgers? Anyone know?

the Double was $9 the single was $5.75 I think

[peterrod16]

the Double was $9 the single was $5.75 I think

its 8.75 for a double

[gradeck]

the Shack-Cago Dog is pretty damn good, very unique concoction, all fresh, all good.

It's only unique if you've never been to Chicago; hot dogs are served all over the city in that style. One of the few things in which Chicago is vastly superior to New York. Shake Shack is the only place in NY that actually serves the hot dog in the authentic Chicago style.

[tomzpc]

It's only unique if you've never been to Chicago; hot dogs are served all over the city in that style. One of the few things in which Chicago is vastly superior to New York. Shake Shack is the only place in NY that actually serves the hot dog in the authentic Chicago style.

What's special about the Shake-cago dog?

[mandrake]

What's special about the Shake-cago dog?

When I was in Chi-town, they put things like tomatoes on the hot dog. No thanks.

[met_dream]

It's only unique if you've never been to Chicago; hot dogs are served all over the city in that style. One of the few things in which Chicago is vastly superior to New York. Shake Shack is the only place in NY that actually serves the hot dog in the authentic Chicago style.

Yeah, I've been to Portillo's in Chi. They are crazy about hot dogs out there.

[gradeck]

An authentic Chicago hot dog is steamed, served on a poppyseed bun with mustard, onion, tomato, pickle, sport peppers, relish and celery salt. I think the Shake Shack also puts on cucumber (?) but that's certainly optional.

[enysteez]

gimme a dirty water dog with saurkraut & red onions any day over all that other stuff.

[met_dream]

Anyone try the catch of the day "cheesy crab fries" yet? Or have they not started serving them? Supposed to be a belgian frite spiced with Old Bay and topped with cheese. Sounds awesome!

[Gary Dunaier]

An authentic Chicago hot dog is steamed, served on a poppyseed bun with mustard, onion, tomato, pickle, sport peppers, relish and celery salt. I think the Shake Shack also puts on cucumber (?) but that's certainly optional.

If that's how they like 'em in Chicago, that's fine. I'll take mine on a potato roll with yellow mustard, thank you and thank you very kindly.

[enysteez]

You know what they REALLY need at Citi Field???

A Junior's

I'd pay the stupid price for a slice of the Apple Crumb Cheesecake at the game.

Mmmmmmmmmmm!

We should start a petition for a Juniors Cheesecake at Citi lol

[SteveJRogers]

If that's how they like 'em in Chicago, that's fine. I'll take mine on a potato roll with yellow mustard, thank you and thank you very kindly.

I will have a hot dog at City Field with mustard, potatoe roll, sourkraut and sweet relish when I go to City Field in 2009.

;)

[tomzpc]

Anyone try the clam chowder from COTD? My wife's eyes lit up when I told her about that one.

[mdnash]

we need more pictures in this thread.


wheres gary duaner? :hissyfit:

[Greg B.]

I will have a hot dog at City Field with mustard, potatoe roll, sourkraut and sweet relish when I go to City Field in 2009.

;)

That sounds perfect to me. Do they have Gulden's spicy brown mustard there?

[tomzpc]

If that's how they like 'em in Chicago, that's fine. I'll take mine on a potato roll with yellow mustard, thank you and thank you very kindly.

Gary!? Yellow mustard??? I'm very disappointed in you. "Yellow" mustard shouldn't even qualify as mustard.

Give me Kosciusko Spicy Brown Mustard anyday. Gulden's will still do in a pinch though of course.

[CoreyNYC]

Gold's, the owner of Gold's is a big Mets fan (and a sponsor)

http://www.goldshorseradish.com/new/2.html

That sounds perfect to me. Do they have Gulden's spicy brown mustard there?

[ribant]

Gold's, the owner of Gold's is a big Mets fan (and a sponsor)

http://www.goldshorseradish.com/new/2.html

Golds is good. Hebrew National Deli Mustard is the best.

[ribant]

:D
Jackson hole burgers are my favorite
they claim 8 oz but its more like 10oz
they have one in englewood NJ and four in NY
how far is the Jackson hole from the 7 train enysteez?

I LOVE the Jackson Diner for Indian food before or after a game. Not traditional ballgame with the guys eats, but awesome. And right where the 7 and F trains meet.

[Gary Dunaier]

wheres gary duaner? :hissyfit:

Are you referring to me, Gary Dunaier, who takes the best damn ballpark photos you're ever gonna see, or are you referring to Duaner Sanchez, who pitches for the Mets? :D

[MetsFan24]

Are you referring to me, Gary Dunaier, who takes the best damn ballpark photos you're ever gonna see, or are you referring to Duaner Sanchez, who pitches for the Mets? :D
haha you mean, pitched for the mets.

[mandrake]

Golds is good. Hebrew National Deli Mustard is the best.

My all time fave, made close to my parents house in Maspeth.......

August Bauer created unique recipes for Pure Prepared Mustard and Mustard with Horseradish in a shop on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens, N.Y.

Bauer's mustard !!!!!! Everything else is just "OK"

[nymdan]

Tried the Bayside Fries today. They were good, but I was expecting more seasoning.

Dave Pasternak was actually over there while I was on line.

[RayNY]

If that's how they like 'em in Chicago, that's fine. I'll take mine on a potato roll with yellow mustard, thank you and thank you very kindly.

You sir are missing out ;-)

Chicago style hotdogs are great. I lived there for 2 years and loved it.

[Tullydew]

I would have loved a Papaya King hot dog stand. Those hot dogs are the best I have ever tasted!

[kimthemetschick]

Does anyone know if there is a food map somewhere online? I was a bit overwhelmed when I went last weekend, and just want to know exactly where I need to go to get where I want. Other than behind the scoreboard, I felt like I couldn't make heads or tails of anything. I will be sitting in Prom infield, first game is thursday. I am planning to go early, and am hoping to sit at a table with my daughter before the game.

[Swoboda4]

I would have loved a Papaya King hot dog stand. Those hot dogs are the best I have ever tasted!

The Mama's sandwich is ridiculous. And the owners, Irene and Carmella, are the nicest people you'll meet.

Definitely should add a Hallo Berlin stand. They have a cart at 54th and 5th in midtown, and a hall over on the west side. They have the best sausages/kraut/potatoes on the planet.

[CoreyNYC]

Its pretty simple:

Field Level
CF: Shake Shack, Blue Smoke, Box Frites, Taqueria, Cascarino's (or whatever they are calling it now), Big Apple Beer, Kids Concessions, Carvel

Right CF: Catch of the Day

RF:Worlds Fare (Mama's, Sushi, Garlic Fries, nion Rings, Salads, Snacks)

Some regular concession stands on Field Level have chicken sandwiches & fingers, which I don't think I saw on the Promenade Level.

Promenade
Behind home: Subway, Mama's, Cascarino's, Carvel, regular concession stands, sausages.

Throughout the park are regular concessions, sausage carts, nacho carts, etc.


Does anyone know if there is a food map somewhere online? I was a bit overwhelmed when I went last weekend, and just want to know exactly where I need to go to get where I want. Other than behind the scoreboard, I felt like I couldn't make heads or tails of anything. I will be sitting in Prom infield, first game is thursday. I am planning to go early, and am hoping to sit at a table with my daughter before the game.

[nymdan]

There's a Subway behind home plate on the promenade? I never noticed that.

[CoreyNYC]

There's a Subway behind home plate on the promenade? I never noticed that.

It wasn't open until last night and last night, they didn't even have a sign up yet. Its the stand all the way on the right side if you are facing towards the seating bowl.

[atdy17]

It wasn't open until last night and last night, they didn't even have a sign up yet. Its the stand all the way on the right side if you are facing towards the seating bowl.

I wonder if it has $5 foot longs.

[nymdan]

It wasn't open until last night and last night, they didn't even have a sign up yet. Its the stand all the way on the right side if you are facing towards the seating bowl.
Oh, okay. Good to know, not that I would ever get Subway there.

[tomkaz]

http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5i0MWN_PSqfOaq3sNTklqVXObeEcA


New York's new ballparks serve up some serious eats for fans
23 hours ago

NEW YORK — Hundreds of fans were lined up for a taste of the fancy eats in the food court behind the behemoth of a centre-field scoreboard at the Mets' sparkling new ballpark when Carlos Beltran laced an RBI single.

But when the cheers rang out, hardly a person ran for a look at the action.

Priorities change a bit when you've been waiting 30 minutes for a burger or taco from James Beard award-winning restaurateur Danny Meyer's snack stands.

A day later at the Yankees' US$1.5-billion palace in the Bronx, several dozen people snapped photos of a butcher in a white coat carving up a hunk of beef in front of a picture-window on the third-base concourse, as Mark Teixeira hit his second home run of the day. All the gawkers had to do was turn around to catch a glimpse of the Yankees' new star rounding the bases, but the meat-carving spectacle in front of them was too mesmerizing for them to bother.

"This is ridiculous," Steve Charles of Great Neck said. "This is a baseball stadium."

For sports purists, it might be disconcerting to hear a bartender shout, "Who ordered the margarita?" or see someone strolling a concourse with a plastic cup of wine, but that's the new reality for New York baseball fans.

There's a baseball renaissance in New York that has little to do with what's happening on the field. Both the Mets and Yankees have unveiled amenity-laden stadiums conceived in the era of credit default swaps and easy money. One of the main benefits for fans is both arenas have dining options reflective of their diverse hometown.

If you have a high-priced ticket, you'll have access to menus worthy of an upscale Manhattan restaurant. But even those in the bleachers can buy trendy, tasty fare for under $10 at some of the new concessions.

The Mets' and Yankees' approach to the task of feeding the three million-plus fans who will pass through their gates this year is about as different as their ballparks are.

Take the No. 7 subway train to the Mets' $800 million Citi Field, adjacent to the 1964 Worlds Fair grounds in Queens, and you'll encounter a nostalgia trip in brick and ironwork that pays homage to those long-gone New York icons, Ebbets Field, where the Brooklyn Dodgers played, and the Polo Grounds, where the Giants, Mets and Yankees played at various times.

Enter through Citi Field's grand Jackie Robinson rotunda and, if you're sitting in a high-level suite or in seats that cost up to $695 a game, you can take a short escalator ride to the Delta Sky 360 Club, one of six exclusive spots in the park. These include the Acela Club, a multitiered restaurant beyond the left-field wall that offers incredible views of the field and a reasonable $48 prix fixe menu conceived by a chef from Myriad Group, the company owned by Drew Nieporent of Nobu and Tribeca Grill.

At the new Yankee Stadium, regular ticket holders can watch while those paying upward of $2,625 for ONE seat - food, but not alcohol, included - sup on white-clothed tables in the glassed-walled Legends Suite Club behind home plate.

For the hoi polloi, there are other options. At Citi Field, bars and concession stands serve stadium favourites: Nathan's hot dogs ($5.75), Brooklyn Burgers ($5.75 compared to $8.75 in the Caesars Club), six types of chicken sandwiches ($6.50-$7.50) and "Cracker Jacks" (memo to Mets: it's Cracker Jack). There are 17 types of beer, the cheapest a 12-ounce American draft at $6.25. Calories are posted at both ballparks, too (hot dogs: 260).

The real treat at Citi Field, though, is behind the scoreboard in centre field at Taste of New York, a concrete picnic area with views of the Whitestone Bridge. Here one can find favourites from Meyer's Shake Shack and Blue Smoke; seafood from David Pasternack, chef at the popular Manhattan restaurant Esca, and pizza from Cascarino's, a Queens chain known for brick-oven pizza.

The lines are long and there's little, if any, view of the field, but if you don't mind missing an inning or two, it's worth the wait.

The made-to-order Shackburger ($5.75 single, $8.75 double), is one of the most popular burgers in New York, and the single is only $1 more at Citi Field than at the original Shake Shacks on Manhattan's Upper West Side and in Madison Square Park. Crispy fries ($4.75) don't wilt under heat lamps, and a thick and rich shake goes for $6.50.

Also at Citi Field: You can have a delicate pulled pork sandwich on a brioche bun ($9) or Kansas City Ribs ($10) at Blue Smoke, or order tacos at El Verano Taqueria. Two pork carnitas with a tangy salsa in a fresh soft tortilla were a bargain at $7.25.

Compare the Shake Shack fries to the Belgian-style ones at Box Frites ($6.50-$7.50) while leaning on the railing of the arched "bridge" leading to the right-field concourse and watch the action from about 500 feet away from home plate. Then stop at Pasternack's Catch of the Day, for a delicately fried Long Island Flounder sandwich ($8.25) or a lobster roll ($17).

When asked why he chose to run the Acela Club restaurant at Citi Field rather than work with the Yankees, Nieporent said the Yankees "went for the money. They wanted everyone to pay them."

A quick trip on the B, D or No. 4 trains to 161st Street and River Avenue in the Bronx, and you're confronted with an overblown monument to all things in pinstripes.

When you walk into the imposing limestone, marble and 2,880-square-metre granite Great Hall, more reminiscent of a federal building than a stadium, you hear recordings from famous Yankees moments, such as Lou Gehrig's "I am the luckiest man on the face of the Earth" speech. As if one needed one more reminder that the team's new home is supposed to evoke the original stadium built in 1923, there's an old-fashioned pushcart selling fruit.

Unlike the dark cinderblock halls of Citi Field, the Yankee Stadium concourses are light and roomy - and windy, too. While the Mets went for the top chefs, the Yankees went for recognizable names.

There's a Hard Rock Cafe with year-round street access, and concessions by Brother Jimmy's BBQ, Boar's Head, Nathan's, Tommy Bahama's, Johnny Rockets and a Mohegan Sun sports bar among others. Walking the concourses feels less like New York than a middle-America mall.

Seventy per cent of the concession stands have equipment for cooking rather than just reheating under lamps, up from 14 per cent in the old park, and that makes all the difference.

A Johnny Rockets double burger ($12) is no match for Shake Shack but satisfying nonetheless.

Embrace variety and follow the field level concourse starting in right field at Carl's Philly Cheesesteaks, where you can have a Philadelphia (where are we?) specialty for $10.75 or a burrito from La Esquina Latina for $9. Head toward left field for a spicy tuna roll ($9.75) or Brother Jimmy's for a pulled pork or beef brisket sandwich ($10 each).

While the Mets have Shea Stadium favourite "Mommas of Corona," the Yankees overload a food court with Arthur Avenue Deli and Mike's Deli (outlets of beloved fixtures from the Bronx's Italian Arthur Avenue market) and Boar's Head. A turkey and provolone ($12) is $2.50 more than Momma's turkey and fresh Mozzarella. Big Mike's Combo or Da True Bronx Tale are $10 each.

The many choices at Yankee Stadium provide an excuse to comparison shop.

A souvenir cup of Budweiser on the 200 level concourse is $10.50. A similar sized Coors Light on the field level is $10. A Hebrew National hot dog was $5.50, but a Nathan's beef frank on the main concourse was $5 or $6 near section 226.

Oh, that butcher wasn't carving just for show. You can sink your teeth into a $15 steak sandwich made with beef from Lobel's of New York, which also supplies the steaks for the NYY Steak restaurant, which is located above the Hard Rock Cafe in the right-field corner. It offers no view of the field but you don't need a ticket to the game to eat there.

[enysteez]

Finally tried the box frites. They were WAY too salty. I mean drenched in salt yuck. But the fry itself was very good. Well cooked and crispy on the outside and very soft inside. Thick cut and very HOT and fresh. So I rate them a B but they can easily be made an A if they relaxed on the salt a bit and the bacon sauce was "meh" average if not below IMO. I think next time Ill go with the ballpark mayo. Oh and a Large is good for 2 adults so its actually not that bad pricing wise.

The mamas special is very good with the red peppers and just another hero without them.

Still havnt tried the tacos, blue smoke bbq, or catch of the day stuff but its a long season lol.

[Bluth Banana]

I had the steak tacos last night and thought they were very good with the lime juice on top and the salsa poured on top. Maybe they were a bit small for the price (you get 2 tacos), but that's my only minor complaint.

I also had the chicken fingers and wow are they improved from Shea. Maybe it's because the season is still young and the frying oil is still fresh but they were crispy on the outside and moist on the inside (unlike Shea's mushy on the outside, dry on the inside).

Also, Shake Shack should have online ordering so I can order from my computer, pay for it online and tell them what time I'll be there to pick it up. This way I (we) can skip the line and pick up my burger and then go back to watching the game.

[CFmets09]

Shake Shack was easily one of the best burgers I have ever had. The beef was like steak it was amazing.

[Gary Dunaier]

Does anyone know if there is a food map somewhere online?

They've got new signs on each level showing where everything is - food, concessions, even restrooms.

There's a Subway behind home plate on the promenade? I never noticed that.

It wasn't open until last night and last night, they didn't even have a sign up yet. Its the stand all the way on the right side if you are facing towards the seating bowl.

They had signs, but they were temporary signs taped to the wall.

[VekterNYM]

Shake Shack was easily one of the best burgers I have ever had. The beef was like steak it was amazing.

Shake Shack is my #2 Burger in all of NYC. Paul's is #1, Blue Smoke is #3, Jackson Hole is probably #4 but I never finish them.

I had Shake Shack first time at Citi Field last night, and it is exactly as good as the original location.

This makes me wonder, if there are any West Coast ballparks that have an In-N-Out Burger or something. I don't recall in Anaheim or Arizona.

El Verano Taqueria is excellent too.

[johnql]

Finally got around to trying Shake Shack tonight. The Double Shack was absolutely delicious! The fries were just so-so but the Black & White shake was very good.

This weekend, I will try Blue Smoke, maybe Catch of the Day.

[RayNY]

Shake Shack and Blue Smoke had long lines like usual, so instead I tried the taco place across from them. Ordered the skirt steak tacos. They were pretty good but IMO I wish they would have chopped up the steak a bit more. They were tasty, albeit a little small but still filling, but there were two and for 7.25 I can't complain. They had a beer called Brooklyn Sambrosa Ale or something like that and it was great. I also had a Hoegaarden beer... my new favorite.

[OffTheTable65]

The line for Shake Shack was a little long last night when I was in that neighborhood, but the line was nearly non-existent at Blue Smoke. As a result, I went there for the $10 ribs. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised with the value. 4 decent-sized ribs and a couple pickle slices, really took awhile to eat. If they add some coleslaw to the meal as a side...it would rank as an A+, but I'll give it a solid A right now. Highly recommended.

Tried the Bayside Fries today. They were good, but I was expecting more seasoning.

I got an order of Bayside Fries after finishing the ribs (in my defense, that was the 1st meal I ate all day...was completely full afterwards). :) I agree with Dan's assessment...good, but they need more bay seasoning. I was expecting more of a Chickie and Pete's-type of fries, like they serve in Philly. Still, the cheese on the side was good. $5.75 seemed slightly high for what you got...seemed more like a $4.50-$5 kind of thing. I'll give it a B for now...upgraded with more seasoning.

[Gary Dunaier]

Finally tried the box frites. They were WAY too salty. I mean drenched in salt yuck. But the fry itself was very good. Well cooked and crispy on the outside and very soft inside. Thick cut and very HOT and fresh. So I rate them a B but they can easily be made an A if they relaxed on the salt a bit and the bacon sauce was "meh" average if not below IMO. I think next time Ill go with the ballpark mayo. Oh and a Large is good for 2 adults so its actually not that bad pricing wise.

I tried the fries, they wound up being my dinner Wednesday night. Mine weren't "drenched," but they definitely were salty. Wonder if you can get them without salt. I also got the bacon sauce, which was fine, but it felt weird dipping fries in something other than ketchup (catsup). They were fine, but I don't think I'd get them again, only because the large is $6.50 and when I spend that kind of money on food at the ballpark I want a "meal" item... and to me freedom fries are a side dish, or maybe a snack, not the main item.

In past years I settled for a hot dog... but, influenced by my willingness to spend a little more to try some of the "Taste Of The City" offerings, so far this year I'm going with the grilled sausage (sweet, no onions or peppers), but maybe I'll give the double Shake Shack burger a try. I've had the Shake Shack burger before but I seem to be in the minority in that I don't think it lives up to the hype. I mean, it's a good burger; you don't have to put a gun to my head to get me to eat one... I just don't think it's worth the amount of time you have to wait on line or the price you have to pay for it.

[nymdan]

I tried the fries, they wound up being my dinner Wednesday night. Mine weren't "drenched," but they definitely were salty. Wonder if you can get them without salt. I also got the bacon sauce, which was fine, but it felt weird dipping fries in something other than ketchup (catsup). They were fine, but I don't think I'd get them again, only because the large is $6.50 and when I spend that kind of money on food at the ballpark I want a "meal" item... and to me freedom fries are a side dish, or maybe a snack, not the main item.

In past years I settled for a hot dog... but, influenced by my willingness to spend a little more to try some of the "Taste Of The City" offerings, so far this year I'm going with the grilled sausage (sweet, no onions or peppers), but maybe I'll give the double Shake Shack burger a try. I've had the Shake Shack burger before but I seem to be in the minority in that I don't think it lives up to the hype. I mean, it's a good burger; you don't have to put a gun to my head to get me to eat one... I just don't think it's worth the amount of time you have to wait on line or the price you have to pay for it.
I also remember you saying you ask for it with no sauce, tomato, lettuce, etc... that, especially the sauce, is probably the difference between a decent burger and an incredible one.

[enysteez]

I also remember you saying you ask for it with no sauce, tomato, lettuce, etc... that, especially the sauce, is probably the difference between a decent burger and an incredible one.

Absolutely! No way it would be the same without the lettuce, tomato and sauce.

No way I would eat a sausage and peppers without the peppers and onions either.

To think that when I was a kid I wouldnt ever eat anything resembling an onion or a tomato lol. As I grew up my tastes matured and now I think putting ketchup on a hot dog is baby stuff lol. Throw some mustard on that frank!

[Bluth Banana]

I had the fish sandwich and Bayside fries from Catch of the Day last night. First, I love the lobster w/ glove logo. The sandwich was really good and actually tasted like fresh fish. The tartar sauce was good too. I agree the fries need more seasoning for them to be worth the special price I paid for them.

Also, my friend had the calamari and said it was really good.

[johnql]

we need more pictures in this thread.
I agree. So, here's my contribution. Maybe others can fill in the blanks. No actual pics of the food, however, just the signage. I figure this will help people with pricing and knowledge of what's offered - maybe that will mean shorter/faster lines as people will know ahead of time what they will be ordering.

Shake Shack, located behind the center field scoreboard.
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/ShakeShack.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/ShakeShack2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/ShakeShack3.jpg

Blue Smoke, next door to Shake Shack
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/BlueSmoke.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/BlueSmoke2.jpg

[johnql]

Box Frites (menu pic needed), located opposite Shake Shack
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/BoxFrites.jpg

Taqueria, next door to Box Frites
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Taqueria.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Taqueria2.jpg

Nonna Delia's, on the corner between Fan Fest and the Bridge
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/NonnaDeliasPizza.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/NonnaDeliasPizza2.jpg

[johnql]

Carvel (menu pic needed), next to FanFest
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Carvel_FanFest.jpg

Big Apple Brews menu, between FanFest and the back of the center field scoreboard
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/BigAppleBrews.jpg

Catch of the Day, located between the Bridge and the right field corner
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/CatchoftheDay.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/CatchoftheDay2.jpg

Cascarino's
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Cascarinos.jpg

[Rob R]

I also remember you saying you ask for it with no sauce, tomato, lettuce, etc... that, especially the sauce, is probably the difference between a decent burger and an incredible one.
I've had a Shake Shack burger, and while good, I personally wouldn't call it incredible. I too think it's more hype than anything else. But at ballpark, yes, it's excellent, much better than the usual fare. If it were a 10 minute wait at CF, I'm there.

But, similar to Gary, I'm the type that if I have an outstanding burger, I'll just sprinkle a little salt on it and that's it. A Luger or even Donovan's Pub burger are examples. I just want to taste the juicy succulent meat, no ketchup, no mayo, no special sauces; nothing. Just meat between 2 buns and maybe tomato and/or lettuce if I'm in the mood.

For those wanting a burger badly when you go to Citi and don't want to stand in line 30 min or more, before or after the game try Donovan's Pub. It's at 5724 Roosevelt Ave. No, no one in my family or any of my friends own it. Give it a try; I don't think you'll be disappointed.

[johnql]

World's Fare Market, in the right field corner
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/WorldsFareMarket1.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/WorldsFareMarket2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/WorldsFareMarket3.jpg

Sushi inside the World's Fare Market
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/WorldsFareMarket4.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/WorldsFareMarket5.jpg

Mama's of Corona inside the World's Fare Market
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/WorldsFareMarket6.jpg

[johnql]

Mama's of Corona, behind home on the Promenade
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/MamasofCorona.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/MamasofCorona2.jpg

Promenade Club menu
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/PromenadeClubMenu.jpg

Nathan's Grill on the Pepsi Porch
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/NathansGrill.jpg

[johnql]

And for those who get the opportunity to dine in the Acela Club Restaurant, here are the brunch and dinner menus (lunch menu pics needed, assuming they offer a lunch menu). Dinner menu pics courtesy of GordonGecko.

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/AcelaClub.jpg

Brunch menu
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/acela_brunchmenu1.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/acela_brunchmenu2.jpg

Dinner menu
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/acela_dinnermenu_entrees.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/acela_dinnermenu_topleft.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/acela_dinnermenu_topright.jpg

[johnql]

Finally, here's a scan of the In-Seat Menu. I'm not exactly sure who qualifies for this, but I assume it's most (if not all) of the Delta Club seating, maybe even the Ebbets Club seating.

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/In-Seat_Menu.jpg

[MetsFan24]

I just got tickets to the may 31 game vs florida and it gets me into the acela club/grill. So can someone help me out here, do i have to call in for reservations? Is there a specific seating? Any help appreciated.

[Stormwatch]

Has anyone tried the Bird Dog at Shake Shack yet? As someone who doesn't eat red meat I'm curious how that tastes.

[Rob R]

Has anyone tried the Bird Dog at Shake Shack yet? As someone who doesn't eat red meat I'm curious how that tastes.
It's for the birds.


OK...it was too easy. Can't help you there, but I'm sure somebody will chime in.

[tomzpc]

I tried the fries, they wound up being my dinner Wednesday night. Mine weren't "drenched," but they definitely were salty. Wonder if you can get them without salt. I also got the bacon sauce, which was fine, but it felt weird dipping fries in something other than ketchup (catsup). They were fine, but I don't think I'd get them again, only because the large is $6.50 and when I spend that kind of money on food at the ballpark I want a "meal" item... and to me freedom fries are a side dish, or maybe a snack, not the main item.

In past years I settled for a hot dog... but, influenced by my willingness to spend a little more to try some of the "Taste Of The City" offerings, so far this year I'm going with the grilled sausage (sweet, no onions or peppers), but maybe I'll give the double Shake Shack burger a try. I've had the Shake Shack burger before but I seem to be in the minority in that I don't think it lives up to the hype. I mean, it's a good burger; you don't have to put a gun to my head to get me to eat one... I just don't think it's worth the amount of time you have to wait on line or the price you have to pay for it.

I agree Gary. I enjoyed the Shake Shack burger that I had but those who are saying that it was one of the best burgers that they've ever had, well, you haven't had many burgers. They're good, not great, and they're small.

I often enjoyed the sausage and peppers at Shea and continue to do so at Citi. Glad to see that they have the choice of hot or sweet now. I had a hot s & p on the workout day and it was excellent.

My biggest complaint continues to be the lack of draft beer stands. At Shea I could get a draft Sam Adams or Brooklyn Lager in multiple spots. At Citi I'm stuck with a can of BL. Very disappointing to me. I like the beer hut in CF but again wish it were draft beers. Guess they decided that the hassle of kegs wasn't worth it. Whatever, I'm bummed. Been drinking the BL's from can but it isn't as good. Bottled or canned beer is never as good as draft.

[tomzpc]

Still looking for a review of the clam chowder from COTD. Anyone tried it yet?

[johnql]

I just got tickets to the may 31 game vs florida and it gets me into the acela club/grill. So can someone help me out here, do i have to call in for reservations? Is there a specific seating? Any help appreciated.
If you're looking for a meal, yes, you need reservations. If you're just looking to get into the club and hang out at the bar, then no. The Acela Club Restaurant reservations phoneline is 718-565-4333. There are two seatings - one before the game and one during the game. They stagger the times during each seating, so for a 1pm game (May 31), they probably offer reservations for 11:30, 11:45 and noon. During the game might be something like 1, 1:15 and 1:30.

For a Sunday day game, they will probably be serving brunch. See above for menu (7 posts up).

[mandrake]

Shake Shack is my #2 Burger in all of NYC. Paul's is #1, Blue Smoke is #3, Jackson Hole is probably #4 but I never finish them.

I had Shake Shack first time at Citi Field last night, and it is exactly as good as the original location.

This makes me wonder, if there are any West Coast ballparks that have an In-N-Out Burger or something. I don't recall in Anaheim or Arizona.

El Verano Taqueria is excellent too.

In-N-Out is my all time fave. They did not have them in Angels Stadium, so I stopped in there before I went to the game . I have not tasted Shake Shack yet.

The Angels did have Carl's Jr, which I also LOVE. At Angels-Red Sox, I ate a one pound burger (I had to hand off the fries to the kids). I don't even know if they sell it anymore, but I ate one. Didn't feel like moving for a couple of innings.

The Kentucky Bourbon Six Dollar Burger™A Charbroiled, 100% Black Angus Beef Patty, Two Strips of Bacon, Pepperjack Cheese, Garlic-Pepper Onion Straws, Lettuce, Tomato Slices and Kentucky Bourbon Glaze - Six Dollar Burger Shown.

I think these are the 1/2 lb singles and the doubles are one pound. I ate so much beef I thought PETA was going to spray paint me.

[Gary Dunaier]

Submitted for your astonishment: a genuine, un-altered photograph of the Shake Shack stand at the Citi Field, during a Mets game, with no line. You could actually walk right up to the counter and place your order.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3634/3417393536_894b12727d_b.jpg
(Photo taken April 3, 2009. © Gary Dunaier. Link to upload on Flickr.com: here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/14504460@N02/3417393536/).)

[johnql]

Had a smorgasbord of items today.

Had a Single Shack. Still tasty but if I weren't having other items, I would normally go with the Double Shack since the Single isn't all that big.

Went with my niece to the game. She and I split a Lobster Roll and a Grilled Shrimp Po' Boy Sandwich from Catch of the Day. The Lobster Roll was very tasty but definitely not worth $17. The Shrimp Po' Boy was also good and a much better value at $12.75 - big enough for two to share. Be careful - it's a bit spicy.

Tried Box Frites. Good but didn't blow me away. I did like the bacon sauce. However, they should give you two sauces with a large order, not just one.

Here are shots of the Box Frites menus.

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/BoxFrites2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/BoxFrites3.jpg

[nymdan]

I tried El Verano Taqueria last night. The steak tacos were pretty good, though a friend who tried both the steak and chicken said the chicken is better. The tortilla was very thick, which was a surprise. I also had the corn on the cob. That was good, but they need to include some floss.

I won't go out of my way to eat there again, though. There are plenty of good Mexican restaurants around, so I'd rather get something that I wouldn't normally have, like Shake Shack, Blue Smoke, sausage and peppers, Mama's, etc.

[Stormwatch]

I got to try the Bird Dog today at Shake Shack. It tasted pretty good, but I didn't like how thick the skin was. You really had to bite down hard to chew through it. The Shackmeister Ale and Fries from Shake Shack were pretty good, though.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a119/TKEON230/DSCF1487.jpg

[mets16]

Tried Box Frites. Good but didn't blow me away. I did like the bacon sauce. However, they should give you two sauces with a large order, not just one.

Yeah I had that last night... not a bad price for the small box, finished the sauce before the fries, which was disappointing because the fries weren't "amazing", I thought the fries themselves would be better..

[nymdan]

Yeah I had that last night... not a bad price for the small box, finished the sauce before the fries, which was disappointing because the fries weren't "amazing", I thought the fries themselves would be better..
I don't think the small is worth it, with the big one only about a dollar more. The big one is good to share.

[mets16]

I don't think the small is worth it, with the big one only about a dollar more. The big one is good to share.

They really should let you pick another sauce then. I mean, I finished my sauce before the fries with a small one.

[Jbutta29]

Do they still sell the souvenir Beer Bottles??

[nymdan]

Do they still sell the souvenir Beer Bottles??
Nope. In fact, the beer stands with signs saying "Bottled Beer" only sell cans.

[Jbutta29]

lame, not a big deal since I dont drink, but still my brother used to get two a game and id have a free souvenir, I have the regular ones and the Shea ones on a shelf in my kitchen..did they finally put out Souvenir cups yet? I remember reading they hadnt during the exhibition games.

[Fudbutter]

We are firm believers that no ballpark food is worth the price or of the quality one could get at a regular restaurant. In the old days, we would stop on Northern Blvd on the way in and pick up something. In recent years, we get there early (better parking anyway) and go to the Pine in the Holiday Inn on 114th or go one stop on the 7 to Main Street for one of the excellent Asian restaurants. The food (and alcohol) is much much less expensive, better in quality and of much greater quantity (especially the Pine)

Today, however, we decided to try something from the ballpark just for the heck of it. We chose Blue Smoke for the KC Ribs. I expected to get ripped off for a $10 order, but when we opened our boxes, we were very pleasantly surprised at the amount of ribs that you get. All in all, they were only a buck or two more than what you could get on the outside. For a ballpark, that is an amazing bargain.

The ribs themselves were a bit more fatty than real KC ribs (Arthur Bryant's is one to try when you are there). They are fall off the bone tender though and "wet" as oppossed to the more traditional dry rib of the midwest. Generally speaking they were tasty for the northeast whether served at the ballpark or at a restuarant.

Highly recommended.

we're still going to the Pine next game though

[tomzpc]

We are firm believers that no ballpark food is worth the price or of the quality one could get at a regular restaurant. In the old days, we would stop on Northern Blvd on the way in and pick up something. In recent years, we get there early (better parking anyway) and go to the Pine in the Holiday Inn on 114th or go one stop on the 7 to Main Street for one of the excellent Asian restaurants. The food (and alcohol) is much much less expensive, better in quality and of much greater quantity (especially the Pine)

Today, however, we decided to try something from the ballpark just for the heck of it. We chose Blue Smoke for the KC Ribs. I expected to get ripped off for a $10 order, but when we opened our boxes, we were very pleasantly surprised at the amount of ribs that you get. All in all, they were only a buck or two more than what you could get on the outside. For a ballpark, that is an amazing bargain.

The ribs themselves were a bit more fatty than real KC ribs (Arthur Bryant's is one to try when you are there). They are fall off the bone tender though and "wet" as oppossed to the more traditional dry rib of the midwest. Generally speaking they were tasty for the northeast whether served at the ballpark or at a restuarant.

Highly recommended.

we're still going to the Pine next game though

Is the Pine within walking distance from stadium parking? I've heard about it so much over the years but never considered going there myself. It's always been tailgate or stadium fare for me. Maybe it's time that I broaden my horizons. =)

[tomzpc]

Funny, I've been to CF 4 times now and still have yet to visit the promenade food court behind the plate. I understand that none of the unique restaurants have set up shop there but I'm wondering what all the food options are?

[nymdan]

Funny, I've been to CF 4 times now and still have yet to visit the promenade food court behind the plate. I understand that none of the unique restaurants have set up shop there but I'm wondering what all the food options are?
Mama's, Subway, Cascarino's, plus the ordinary stuff--Sausages, Carvel, and the ordinary concession stands that sell hot dogs and everything else.

[Jbutta29]

The food seems great but generally i just opt for the Nathans dog at the games and maybe some cracker jack for the kids. Ribs seem a scary proposition when wearing a jersey I dont want to get ruined..i dont trust em!!

[MetsFan24]

If you're looking for a meal, yes, you need reservations. If you're just looking to get into the club and hang out at the bar, then no. The Acela Club Restaurant reservations phoneline is 718-565-4333. There are two seatings - one before the game and one during the game. They stagger the times during each seating, so for a 1pm game (May 31), they probably offer reservations for 11:30, 11:45 and noon. During the game might be something like 1, 1:15 and 1:30.

For a Sunday day game, they will probably be serving brunch. See above for menu (7 posts up).

Wow thanks john. Assuming you've been there, what the food like?

[tomzpc]

They really should let you pick another sauce then. I mean, I finished my sauce before the fries with a small one.

Has anyone asked for a second sauce?

[tomzpc]

Mama's, Subway, Cascarino's, plus the ordinary stuff--Sausages, Carvel, and the ordinary concession stands that sell hot dogs and everything else.

What are Cascarino's cheese slices like? Big, small? Are they decent? I wouldn't ever drop $6 on a slice but one of my girls often opts for pizza when given a choice.

What's the subway offer? Is it a full subway menu or just limited sandwiches? I know there was a subway at Shea but I never once checked it out to be honest.

[johnql]

Wow thanks john. Assuming you've been there, what the food like?
I got a chance to have brunch there on 4/4 (one of the Red Sox exhibition games), which is why I had Delta Club seats. Normally, I would never pay that much for a ticket. Here's a repost of my mini-review that I posted on BBF the following day:

"The food was really good in the restaurant. Since we were dining before a day game, they were offering a prix fixe Brunch Menu for $41. The price includes a buffet with pastries, croissants, danishes, muffins, bagels, antipasti, smoked fish & cured meats, Caesar salad, bruschetta w/ chick peas, mussels and blintzes. All of this is in addition to an entree chosen from: onion & cheddar omelet, french toast, burger, swordfish, bbq ribs, lemon & herb chicken, bbq beef brisket sandwich, or crabcakes. I had the crabcakes and they were excellent. My niece had the bbq ribs and also enjoyed them. The service was also excellent without being intrusive. If you can get an opportunity to try this restaurant, I would highly recommend it."

[tomzpc]

Still awaiting two reviews. Has anyone had the chowder from COTD or the chipotle chicken wings from Blue Smoke? May have to try the wings myself tomorrow but I have a feeling that I'll be disappointed in the quantity. I imagine that the quality isn't an issue based on the pulled pork sandwiches and the ribs.

[nymdan]

What are Cascarino's cheese slices like? Big, small? Are they decent? I wouldn't ever drop $6 on a slice but one of my girls often opts for pizza when given a choice.

What's the subway offer? Is it a full subway menu or just limited sandwiches? I know there was a subway at Shea but I never once checked it out to be honest.
Can't really help you out with any of those questions, because I agree with you that pizza isn't worth it for $6, but I will tell you it looks better than the pizza at Shea. Here's the Cascarino's in the Caesar's Club:
http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/9905/122fec.jpg

[nymdan]

Still awaiting two reviews. Has anyone had the chowder from COTD or the chipotle chicken wings from Blue Smoke? May have to try the wings myself tomorrow but I have a feeling that I'll be disappointed in the quantity. I imagine that the quality isn't an issue based on the pulled pork sandwiches and the ribs.
I've had the chowder twice. It's good. I'd like it a bit chunkier and I'd like them to serve it a bit warmer, but I'd recommend it.

[Jbutta29]

anyone had the Crab Fries or "Garlic Fries" ?

[tomzpc]

That pizza looks decent, better than cafeteria/Shea style at least. 4.75 for a cup of clam chowder seems like a decent deal. I pay almost that when I ge a cup of soup to go from some of my local delis. Glad to hear that the chowder is decent.

Now, who's had the chipotle wings? :hyper:

[Jbutta29]

overall the food prices seem pretty fair especially with the upgrade in quality, down here at Dolphin Stadium, the food is horrendous and offensively priced.

[nymdan]

anyone had the Crab Fries or "Garlic Fries" ?
If you're talking about the Bayside Fries at Catch of the Day, I have. They're good enough, but I was expecting something more like the Chickie and Pete's fries in Philly. Not too much seasoning on the fries at all.

[Jbutta29]

ah thats disappointing.

[dla75]

Raymond Sokolov of the Wall Street journal compared food at Citi Field and new Yankee Stadium. Generally the food at Citi field did well but when it came to sandwiches Mama’s Special got totally overlooked.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124000410253030209.html

[Jbutta29]

I am dying to try Carls Cheesesteaks, anyone know if on the yankee stadium tour they have concessions open? if not ill just hit up the one in the City.

[dla75]

I am dying to try Carls Cheesesteaks, anyone know if on the yankee stadium tour they have concessions open? if not ill just hit up the one in the City.

So far i can not find Cheesesteaks at Citi Field anybody know of any cheesestake stands at citi field?

[Jbutta29]

from everything ive read they dont have any.

[dla75]

They should add a Cheesestake Place to Citi Field. They should also have a Rusty Staub Rib place in the same vain as Boog Powell's at Camden Yards and Bull's (Greg Luzinski) at Citizen's Bank Park.

[Jbutta29]

isnt blue smoke the rib place at Citi?? Anyone know if they have snapple at citi??

[Gary Dunaier]

did they finally put out Souvenir cups yet? I remember reading they hadnt during the exhibition games.

They had them during the exhibition games. They didn't have them at the college game.

The cups are of a better quality than in previous years - I actually kept my "souvenir" cup (which is actually called a "collector" cup on the cup itself) this year, in previous years I'd throw it away after drinking my soda. But that quality comes at a price... a "souvenir" soda is 50 cents more than a large, but you get more soda with a large. So you have to decide what's more important to you... the soda or the cup.

Here's a historic photo of my very first Citi Field "souvenir" soda as it's being dispensed...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3630/3417193960_8088a49ddf_b.jpg
(Photo taken April 3, 2009. © Gary Dunaier. Link to upload on Flickr.com: here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/14504460@N02/3417193960/).)

[RayNY]

So far i can not find Cheesesteaks at Citi Field anybody know of any cheesestake stands at citi field?

If you have access to one of the upper scale clubs (Delta, Sterling) the chefs will make cheese steaks when the Phillies come to play. I read that the chefs in those clubs prepare food that is specific to the geography of the visiting teams.

[dla75]

isnt Blue smoke the rib place at Citi?? Anyone know if they have snapple at citi??

Blue Smoke is a basic concession stand and a bit on the gormet side it adds little atmosphere to the ball park. What i would like to see is a Rusty BBQ Rib pit like the ones in Bailtamore and Philly.

[Jbutta29]

I still have a few of my cups, the last Shea season and a few others...its a cheap souvenir.

[RayNY]

Citi Field needs a good place to get noodles. Soba and udon would do well at ballparks I'd think. With them trying to be diverse in TOTC, perhaps they should've put one there.

I tried the pizza over there by the fanfest area and honestly it kinda sucked for $6+.

[Jbutta29]

I really hate that a NY ballpark doesnt have some awesome NY pizza...

[NJTankMets]

I really hate that a NY ballpark doesnt have some awesome NY pizza...

Thats because the best Pizza is actually made in Jersey :)

[RayNY]

I really hate that a NY ballpark doesnt have some awesome NY pizza...

You are totally right about that. This is New York City... take any one of the millions of "Ray's Pizzas" and put it in Citi Field and it would be a hit. $3/slice is reasonable. Instead they have novelty pizza that isn't very New York at all and it's $6+ for a small square.

I love the food at Citi Field I think it's great but just that one pizza place is a disappointment IMO.

[Jbutta29]

agreed. I mean, they at least got the Nathans right, but I think as far as being NY, they should up the NY native factor. I see they have plenty of sushi, but no latin food aside from the Mexican place, why not a place that sells latin sandwiches, or items like empanadas, etc and what not, I dont know...I just think they could capitalize on playing up the whole local NY food factor. Not a big deal by any means, just thoughts thrown out there, I dont need them to throw a White Castle in there, however that would rule!

[mdnash]

Can't really help you out with any of those questions, because I agree with you that pizza isn't worth it for $6, but I will tell you it looks better than the pizza at Shea. Here's the Cascarino's in the Caesar's Club:
http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/9905/122fec.jpg

ever been to cascarino's in bayside? their slices are like $3!! they rip you off even when you go there

[nymdan]

agreed. I mean, they at least got the Nathans right, but I think as far as being NY, they should up the NY native factor. I see they have plenty of sushi, but no latin food aside from the Mexican place, why not a place that sells latin sandwiches, or items like empanadas, etc and what not, I dont know...I just think they could capitalize on playing up the whole local NY food factor. Not a big deal by any means, just thoughts thrown out there, I dont need them to throw a White Castle in there, however that would rule!
They do supposedly have a Cuban Sandwich at the World's Fare Market. Haven't tried it.

Either way, I guess Mets fans are never happy. Come on. We've got incredible food in this place.

[whoisonit]

You just gotta love this forum, lol;



Here's a historic photo of my very first Citi Field "souvenir" soda as it's being dispensed...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3630/3417193960_8088a49ddf_b.jpg
(Photo taken April 3, 2009. © Gary Dunaier. Link to upload on Flickr.com: here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/14504460@N02/3417193960/).)

[Fudbutter]

Is the Pine within walking distance from stadium parking? I've heard about it so much over the years but never considered going there myself. It's always been tailgate or stadium fare for me. Maybe it's time that I broaden my horizons. =)

The Pine is on 114th St (you can see it past the rubble pile formerly known as Shea). Walk down Roosevelt and take a right on 114th and you are there. It's a short walk.

PRO:

- Food is better quality than you get at the ballpark
- You get way more food
- Choices are much much better
- Alcohol such as drinks and wine are available ($9.50 for a sip of crao wine at CF is ridiculous)
- Beer is less expensive
- Seating is comfortable rather than standing at the green tables
- You will have eaten so much that you will not need to get up during teh game and miss something important or historical (which should be the ballpark goal of any real baseball fan)
- There are healthier choices for those who need it

CON:

- You have to eat earlier
- You have to get to the game earlier (which is also a pro since parking ios easier)



What I'm surpised about on this board is that you folk seem to go to the ballpark way more than those on other boards I visit. CF food several times a week has got to eat heavily into one's budget. When we had FST, we all brought in food every game (and fed our ushers, guards, etc). Sometimes, we took turns bringing in for everyone (italian hero's and other sandwhiches, take out Chinese, KFC, Arby's, etc). The fun part was stopping on Northern Blvd and ordering 150 cheeseburgers at White Castle. Of course, then Casey's 37 was or best choice so maybe it was necessity.

[RayNY]

The flounder sandwich at Catch of the Day is superb. It is a must try. The clam chowder was pretty good but didn't live up to all the hype I've read in this thread. I wish it was a little thicker. The one I had was a little thin/watery, but still tasted good nonetheless.

A for the flounder sandwich
B+ for the clam and corn chowder

[nymdan]

I tried the Po' Boy today. I'm not a huge shrimp lover, so maybe I'm not the best person to go by, but a few bites had me thinking it was really good, and a few bites had me thinking it wasn't great. I'm not sure what the taste I didn't like was--maybe it was the mustard. Very spicy, which is fine with me, but don't try it if you don't like spicy food.

The bread it's on is incredible though, as I figured it would be after I noticed it--during the exhibition game, when workers workers carrying a cartful of bread crashed into me.
http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/7802/030eoz.jpg

[Jbutta29]

They do supposedly have a Cuban Sandwich at the World's Fare Market. Haven't tried it.

Either way, I guess Mets fans are never happy. Come on. We've got incredible food in this place.


hahah no this food seems much better than Sheas overall without a doubt, I just wonder certain things sometimes, like I guess i always look at what I would have done differently in any situation.

[johnql]

Since I posted pics of much of the food concession signage from the Field Level, it's only fair that the Promenade gets its due.

Here are pics from behind home plate on the Promenade level.

Subway
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Subway.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Subway2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Subway3.jpg

Nathan's Hot Dogs
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/NathansHotDogs.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Nathans2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Nathans3.jpg

[johnql]

Grilled Sausage stand
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/GrilledSausage.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/GrilledSausage2.jpg

Cascarino's Pizza
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/CascarinosPizza.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Cascarinos2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Cascarinos3.jpg

Carvel Ice Cream
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Carvel.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Carvel2.jpg

[Jbutta29]

I am sorry but god Subway makes the worst sandwiches, all the good delis in NY and we get a subway! lol. Id definitely opt for a Mamas of Corona hero...

[johnql]

Burgers & Fries
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Burgers_Fries.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Burgers_Fries2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Burgers_Fries3.jpg

[nymdan]

Whoever mentioned Citi Field not having cheesesteaks, I guess that's not true. But it's not like a Subway cheesesteak is a good one.

[Jbutta29]

hahah agreed, subway cant even get a turkey sandwich to taste right.

[Shbmets]

No $5 dollar foot longs here!

The best deal is still the Sausage and Peppers or the Mama's Italian sandwich.

[Fudbutter]

No Subway salads?

They were our salvation the past few years at Shea (we don't eat bread)

Well then there was at least one food advantage at Shea !

[nymdan]

No Subway salads?

They were our salvation the past few years at Shea (we don't eat bread)

Well then there was at least one food advantage at Shea !
You can get salads (and I'd imagine a much better variety) at the World's Fare Market in RF on the field level.

[johnql]

They also serve salads in the Promenade Club if you can get in there.

[mdnash]

2 things:


1) I love how subway advertises $5 footlongs at the park but the 6" sub at citi field is 6.50

2) Best Bang for your Buck: has got to go to the 'hot dog and chicken' stand on the field level concourse in left center field. $20 buys you: 1 order of boneless buffalo wings (a very generous portion) 1 order of sweet and spicy chicken fingers and 1 order of fries.

all the items i mention are quite delectable. heres the price breakdown:

7.50 for each of the chicken orders and 4.75 for the fries.

after this meal you wont eat til the next day GUARANTEED! :flow::flow:

[tomzpc]

Got the ribs today from Blue Smoke. They were VERY good and it was a decent amount. Not a bad value, at least as far as ballpark prices go.
Shack Shack line today 1 hour before game time was crazy. :crazy There was no line whatsoever for Blue Smoke which made the decision much easier.

Best beers in the house are the Brooklyn draft ale offerings at Shack Shack and Blue Smoke. Shame you can't get them elsewhere.

[nymdan]

2) Best Bang for your Buck: has got to go to the 'hot dog and chicken' stand on the field level concourse in left center field. $20 buys you: 1 order of boneless buffalo wings (a very generous portion) 1 order of sweet and spicy chicken fingers and 1 order of fries.
Thank you! I saw somebody with the boneless buffalo wings the other day and I was wondering where they got them. I wonder if the stand in the left field corner of the promenade has the same things.

[MetsFanSince66]

Ughhhhhhhhhh I know I'm a fatass....but do I really have to see how many calories I'm eating when I go to the ballpark???? Is that a new city law that menus have to show calorie content??? If not.....take that crap down!!! Next thing you know my Doctor will be behind the counter with his stethoscope & blood pressure cup with a pissed off look on his face. :crazy:crazy

[johnql]

Ughhhhhhhhhh I know I'm a fatass....but do I really have to see how many calories I'm eating when I go to the ballpark???? Is that a new city law that menus have to show calorie content??? If not.....take that crap down!!! Next thing you know my Doctor will be behind the counter with his stethoscope & blood pressure cup with a pissed off look on his face. :crazy:crazy

I happen to agree with you, but unfortunately it's a NYC law, enacted in May 2008, requiring that calories be posted on menus of restaurants with 15 or more locations in the US.

[koufax]

very important question for you guys:

1. how are the knish's at new shea? please tell me they are the square ones and not the round awful ones?

2. where can you get them?

thanks

[jfvmets]

i don't if somebody had said it here but the hotdogs and burger at the ceaser level are more expensive than the one on the prominade level... don't know if somebody have notice it.... its $1 more expensive... don't know compared to field level .... but is cheaper prominade..so good up there if you want to save some money....:flow:

[NJTankMets]

Today in the Pepsi Porch I dropped my soda, and the people actually let me get another one no charge, I thought that was great.

[Fudbutter]

You can get salads (and I'd imagine a much better variety) at the World's Fare Market in RF on the field level.

First place we looked before the SJU game. Way overpriced ($10 or so), small and nothing to it. Worst of all, no fat free or low fat dressing, without which a salad is a waste. That's why the Subway one was so good. You got a variety of veggies and a choice of healthy dressings.

They also serve salads in the Promenade Club if you can get in there.

Despite having a Plan, we don't qualify and weren't offered more than Prom waaaaay in the OF (the price of having last year's plan behind the plate in the UD). We feel left out that we can't get into any club despite having 15 games off the bat.


Ughhhhhhhhhh I know I'm a fatass....but do I really have to see how many calories I'm eating when I go to the ballpark???? Is that a new city law that menus have to show calorie content??? If not.....take that crap down!!! Next thing you know my Doctor will be behind the counter with his stethoscope & blood pressure cup with a pissed off look on his face. :crazy:crazy

Besides, that is the most meaningless stat on food. Without Fat grams and, most importantly, carbs, calories tell you very little.

I love your Doctor idea. You have to have your blood pressure tested and cholestorol level checked before you can buy certain foods. Also, if need be, Mr. Met can perform a colonostomy between innings. It seems like it is coming to that, no?

[Greg B.]

Ughhhhhhhhhh I know I'm a fatass....but do I really have to see how many calories I'm eating when I go to the ballpark???? Is that a new city law that menus have to show calorie content??? If not.....take that crap down!!! Next thing you know my Doctor will be behind the counter with his stethoscope & blood pressure cup with a pissed off look on his face. :crazy:crazy

I agree, but I did learn one thing that surprised me. I knew that peanuts were full of fat, but didn't realize that I could have two burgers or sausages and match the calorie count in one sack of peanuts! No more peanuts for me.

[mandrake]

very important question for you guys:

1. how are the knish's at new shea? please tell me they are the square ones and not the round awful ones?

2. where can you get them?

thanks

My first game was Fri 4/3 vs the Red Sox. Since it was still Lent, and I have Catholic Guilt, I only had fries and a knish. The price of the knish was reduced about a buck or so from last year; currently $3.75 and I think at Shea they may have been $5. They are square and tasted good, but I like to fill the inside with a lot of mustard. I think you can get them at any stand that sell Nathan's hot dogs.

[mandrake]

Ughhhhhhhhhh I know I'm a fatass....but do I really have to see how many calories I'm eating when I go to the ballpark???? Is that a new city law that menus have to show calorie content??? If not.....take that crap down!!! Next thing you know my Doctor will be behind the counter with his stethoscope & blood pressure cup with a pissed off look on his face. :crazy:crazy

Hey, took my dad to a game last week. He's 82 and I wanted to hear his view on Citi vs Shea, Ebeets and the Polo Grounds. He was drooling over most of the food choices and thought the calorie listings was the stupidest thing he ever saw. He said when you are 82 you can eat whatever you want; claims his mom ate the worst foods imagined, never really 'took care of herself', (closet drinker? ooops) and she lived to 98.
People go overboard on this stuff and instead of practicing their own self control, they become food nazis.

[koufax]

My first game was Fri 4/3 vs the Red Sox. Since it was still Lent, and I have Catholic Guilt, I only had fries and a knish. The price of the knish was reduced about a buck or so from last year; currently $3.75 and I think at Shea they may have been $5. They are square and tasted good, but I like to fill the inside with a lot of mustard. I think you can get them at any stand that sell Nathan's hot dogs.



thanks for that info. Im so glad the square ones are back. I dont know if I just couldnt fidn them the last 2 years at shea, but the only knish I found were the "more authentic" round ones and they were absolutely terrible.

I may be there this sunday against the nats, so its the first thing IM going to look for

[mandrake]

thanks for that info. Im so glad the square ones are back. I dont know if I just couldnt fidn them the last 2 years at shea, but the only knish I found were the "more authentic" round ones and they were absolutely terrible.

I may be there this sunday against the nats, so its the first thing IM going to look for

Somebody posted a menu showing they are $3.75 and that they have 170 calories. :crazy Not counting the mustard I pour inside.
Anyway, let's say I think it was square, but I did whoof it down quickly, so if it turns out that it is rounded......oh well. It still tasted good to me.

[nymdan]

I agree, but I did learn one thing that surprised me. I knew that peanuts were full of fat, but didn't realize that I could have two burgers or sausages and match the calorie count in one sack of peanuts! No more peanuts for me.
There was a vendor walking around the promenade yesterday with peanuts, screaming, "Peanuts! Less than 1000 calories!"

[koufax]

Somebody posted a menu showing they are $3.75 and that they have 170 calories. :crazy Not counting the mustard I pour inside.
Anyway, let's say I think it was square, but I did whoof it down quickly, so if it turns out that it is rounded......oh well. It still tasted good to me.

well the square one is just 99% potato.

the round ones Im talking about were mostly bread or whatever it is with potato filling in the middle. trust me, you would know what Im talking about!

[nymdan]

well the square one is just 99% potato.

the round ones Im talking about were mostly bread or whatever it is with potato filling in the middle. trust me, you would know what Im talking about!
Square knish=fried
Round knish=baked

[alpineinc]

Finally got to the Taqueria. Got the combo and I'd say the steak is the best of the three by far. The soft tortilla itself is great, and serving them with a lime seals the deal. Still have to try the B.S. ribs - next time.

PS. The classic Nathans is way better with the fresh toppings - no contest, puts the Shea Nathan's to shame.

[tomzpc]

Finally got to the Taqueria. Got the combo and I'd say the steak is the best of the three by far. The soft tortilla itself is great, and serving them with a lime seals the deal. Still have to try the B.S. ribs - next time.


There are three in the combo right? Steak, chicken and ??.

Some guys posted here that the tacos are small. Is the 3-pak combo a satisfying meal?

I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of meat I got with the BS ribs yesterday. Someone else mentioned and I have to agree though that a small side of cole slaw would make it even better! Oh, and btw, you WILL need the wet nap that they supply you with.

[mdnash]

well the square one is just 99% potato.

the round ones Im talking about were mostly bread or whatever it is with potato filling in the middle. trust me, you would know what Im talking about!

mustard doesnt have calories...score!

[Gary Dunaier]

The Pine is on 114th St (you can see it past the rubble pile formerly known as Shea). Walk down Roosevelt and take a right on 114th and you are there. It's a short walk.

One important thing you forgot to mention - it's in the Holiday Inn hotel. I don't think there are any exterior signs referring to the Pine, so anyone going down 114th looking for "The Pine" may get confused if they don't see any signs.

Another important thing about The Pine that wasn't listed as either a PRO or a CON - how are their prices?

[Gary Dunaier]

Burgers & Fries

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Burgers_Fries.jpg

BROOKLYN Burger?

Another example of Wilpon's obsession with the Dodgers? :silent:

[tfc3rid]

Saturday just ended up having a Corn Dog and some Beer Battered Onion Rings... Both were very good...

The gf ended up getting the NAchos Grande... Very good pico de gallo... Fresh cheese sauce.

Got there too late but was pining for a Double Shack burger.

[Fudbutter]

One important thing you forgot to mention - it's in the Holiday Inn hotel. I don't think there are any exterior signs referring to the Pine, so anyone going down 114th looking for "The Pine" may get confused if they don't see any signs.

Another important thing about The Pine that wasn't listed as either a PRO or a CON - how are their prices?

Good point about the Holiday Inn, you'd miss it otherwise.

Prices are excellent for what it is. You may end up paying the same or less for your dinner but you get way more and way better food. You actually have to be careful not to order too much because a lot of portions are too big to finish and you don't want to take a doggie bag into the game.

I never knew of this place until the last half of last year. Someone from another excellent board turned us onto it. What I like the most is being able to have a bottle of wine with a real dinner at a comfortable table. What we didn't like is that there are too many things on the menu that you have to try and feel guilty about later. Fudbutter's tip is to order the stuffed pork chops and split it with someone.

I'm also told that there are some good ethnic places to eat further down Roosevelt but to date we haven't found them

Again, the best part is to not miss the game you paid so much to see. We can see the food court crowds from our seats. On Saturday, we couldn't believe how many people were missing those last innings in such a close game

[RayNY]

They also serve salads in the Promenade Club if you can get in there.

I got in there easily yesterday. There was hardly anyone in it. Was a little surprised at how small the area was though. But at least there were bars. Great to hang out during a blowout game or rain delay. I could imagine it would be packed then. They had carver deli style sandwiches but damn, $9??

[enysteez]

Wierd thin regarding the food vendors inconsistency. We noticed that the vendors walking around were keeping the bottle tops of the pepsi and aquafina they were selling. But when we got a water at a concession stand they gave it to us unopened with the top. Im not sure if this means the policy is changed or not. On Opening Day I got a pepsi and the vendor gave it to me sealed as well.

[tomzpc]

The Pine is on 114th St (you can see it past the rubble pile formerly known as Shea). Walk down Roosevelt and take a right on 114th and you are there. It's a short walk.

PRO:

- Food is better quality than you get at the ballpark
- You get way more food
- Choices are much much better
- Alcohol such as drinks and wine are available ($9.50 for a sip of crao wine at CF is ridiculous)
- Beer is less expensive
- Seating is comfortable rather than standing at the green tables
- You will have eaten so much that you will not need to get up during teh game and miss something important or historical (which should be the ballpark goal of any real baseball fan)
- There are healthier choices for those who need it

CON:

- You have to eat earlier
- You have to get to the game earlier (which is also a pro since parking ios easier)



What I'm surpised about on this board is that you folk seem to go to the ballpark way more than those on other boards I visit. CF food several times a week has got to eat heavily into one's budget. When we had FST, we all brought in food every game (and fed our ushers, guards, etc). Sometimes, we took turns bringing in for everyone (italian hero's and other sandwhiches, take out Chinese, KFC, Arby's, etc). The fun part was stopping on Northern Blvd and ordering 150 cheeseburgers at White Castle. Of course, then Casey's 37 was or best choice so maybe it was necessity.

Does the Holiday Inn have it's own parking lot? Just wondering if it's possible to park over there, eat at the Pine, and then just leave the car and walk back and forth to the game.

Do you generally need reservations for the Pine if the goal is to eat between 5:30-6 for a night game?

[johnql]

I got in there easily yesterday. There was hardly anyone in it. Was a little surprised at how small the area was though. But at least there were bars. Great to hang out during a blowout game or rain delay. I could imagine it would be packed then. They had carver deli style sandwiches but damn, $9??

I wasn't referring to the Prom Club's crowdedness. I was just referring to whether a person's ticket gave him access to the club. And you're right - when I went in there yesterday, it was almost empty.

[Gary Dunaier]

Does the Holiday Inn have it's own parking lot? Just wondering if it's possible to park over there, eat at the Pine, and then just leave the car and walk back and forth to the game.

The Holiday Inn does have its own parking lot. Don't know if you can park, eat and walk, though...

[Afikoman]

For those who love the sqaure knishes...try stuffing them with mustard and onions and/or sauerkraut.....delish :nod:

[Fudbutter]

Does the Holiday Inn have it's own parking lot? Just wondering if it's possible to park over there, eat at the Pine, and then just leave the car and walk back and forth to the game.

Do you generally need reservations for the Pine if the goal is to eat between 5:30-6 for a night game?

As Gary said, there is a lot, but I think that youhave to be staying at the hotel. I guess you should call the hotel to ask. If you get there early enough, there is parking right in 114th st.

You could be good for 5:30, but you would be risking a wait so you might want a bit earlier to give time to be sure. We shoot for 5:00p amd the place is empty. We haven't made resos so I don't know if they take them.

BTW: I forgot to note that this was once Bobby Valentine's sports bar so there are plenty of HD TV's to watch while you are eating.

[Fudbutter]

The Holiday Inn does have its own parking lot. Don't know if you can park, eat and walk, though...

What surprises me is that you don't have a bunch of pictures, inside and outside of the place ;->

[MrMet84]

I hadf the chicken nachos grande and a canoli on Saturday. Canoli was delicious and the chicken nachos were fantastic. Beas, Cheese, Salsa, then went to the toppings bar and added some lettuce. Was amazing.

[Gary Dunaier]

What surprises me is that you don't have a bunch of pictures, inside and outside of the place ;->

#1, it's not a ballpark.

#2, I've never actually eaten there... I just pop in to use the restroom when I'm taking pictures of Shea, and eventually Citi, from within Corona.

#3, you have a standing offer to treat me to a meal at "The Pine" at any time. :D (This offer is open to all people at the Baseball Fever and is not restricted to Fudbutter. :party: )

[alpineinc]

There are three in the combo right? Steak, chicken and ??.

Some guys posted here that the tacos are small. Is the 3-pak combo a satisfying meal?


...Pork.

They are smaller but I don't think too small (any taco pics out there??). I thought the three were pretty satisfying, but there are bigger meals at similar prices. Ribs are probably more bang for your buck.

[nymdan]

any taco pics out there??
Found this one on Flickr:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3655/3449419760_a103503dbe.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ccz/3449419760/

[Jbutta29]

I am going to come out and say it, the whole idea of actual restaraunts at a ballpark offend me....

[peterrod16]

I am going to come out and say it, the whole idea of actual restaraunts at a ballpark offend me....

well your not forced to eat there.
if someone has to dough to eat there let them
i will be with everyone else at the shake shack.

[Jbutta29]

No I agree, its just that...I mean you are at a baseball game, why would you want to be in some lounge watching the game on TV while you eat at a table, most you cant even see the field from. Its silly to me and slightly pretentious...

[peterrod16]

No I agree, its just that...I mean you are at a baseball game, why would you want to be in some lounge watching the game on TV while you eat at a table, most you cant even see the field from. Its silly to me and slightly pretentious...

times change. I remember my mom bringing a cannister full of hot dogs in shea back when gregg jeffries was hitting leadoff homeruns.
Now even in these tough economic times people with the $$ are going to enjoy these lounges & resturants.
When your used to a certain lifestyle you kinda expect these premium offerings.

[Jbutta29]

Just seems to me, these snooty people would be better suited going out elsewhere to dinner...

[Fudbutter]

#1, it's not a ballpark.

#2, I've never actually eaten there... I just pop in to use the restroom when I'm taking pictures of Shea, and eventually Citi, from within Corona.

#3, you have a standing offer to treat me to a meal at "The Pine" at any time. :D (This offer is open to all people at the Baseball Fever and is not restricted to Fudbutter. :party: )

------------------------------------------------------------------------

and you call these excuses?

As far as #3 goes, as soon as I win LOTTO (not if, when) I'll have a standing table at the Pine for people from my favorite boards. You get first shot for coming up with the idea (after Swoboda4 of course)

[tomzpc]

...deleted...

[RayNY]

Found this one on Flickr:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3655/3449419760_a103503dbe.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ccz/3449419760/

Why does that person get 3 and I only got 2? lol
No but seriously how much do you get? When I got mine they gave me 2.

Btw the taco was fine but they should add rice in it and that would complete it.

[nymdan]

Why does that person get 3 and I only got 2? lol
No but seriously how much do you get? When I got mine they gave me 2.

Btw the taco was fine but they should add rice in it and that would complete it.
Looks like that might be the combo, where you get 1 of each.

[johnql]

Why does that person get 3 and I only got 2? lol
No but seriously how much do you get? When I got mine they gave me 2.

Btw the taco was fine but they should add rice in it and that would complete it.

You must have gotten one of the 2-taco deals for $7.25. See photo below - first 3 deals offer only 2 tortillas; the third one for $9.75 offers 3.

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Taqueria2.jpg

[trueblue9441]

do they have the same knishes that they did at shea?

[RayNY]

Looks like that might be the combo, where you get 1 of each.

You must have gotten one of the 2-taco deals for $7.25. See photo below - first 3 deals offer only 2 tortillas; the third one for $9.75 offers 3.

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/Taqueria2.jpg

You are right. Thanks.
(still wish they added rice to those tacos that's all it needs lol)

[tomkaz]

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124000410253030209.html


Taste-Testing New York Baseball
Lobster rolls at Citi Field take on cheese steaks at Yankee Stadium.

By RAYMOND SOKOLOV
New York

On chilly Wednesday night at spanking-new Citi Field, José Reyes scored from first base for the home team in a comical Padres screwup, and the Mets beat the San Diego Padres 7-2. But some of the best action was in the stands, in the open-air food court called Taste of the City.

Both local teams lost the openers at their new stadiums -- the Mets to the Padres on Monday 6-5, and the Yankees to Cleveland on Thursday 10-2 -- but they scored points with their efforts to give New York baseball fans a lot more than franks and beer to feed themselves and their loyalty.

Like the Mets, the Yankees have devoted vast space to a vastly improved string of food purveyors in an area with a full view of the diamond. And like those at Citi Field, many of the stalls at the new Yankee Stadium are operated by trademark restaurateurs and food-service veterans with local or national reputations for quality. Mike's Deli, of the nearby Italian enclave on Arthur Avenue, is bringing fresh mozzarella and zeppoli. Johnny Rockets gives the discriminating Yank ticketholder a sample of the charbroiled cheeseburger that has made the restaurant chain's name.


With the Mets picked to go all the way this year by Sports Illustrated, and the Yankees' being a team, as my father the Detroit Tiger fan told me, that you should never bet against, New Yorkers can once again start nursing hopes for a subway series in October. But right now, the inquiring palate can conduct another kind of subway series, a gastronomic matchup of the improved food offerings at the two new ballparks. Here is my box score, based on taste comparisons conducted on the spot at Citi Field and Yankee Stadium.

For this battle of the food halls, I am deliberately excluding elite restaurants and facilities open only to VIP ticketholders, although it should be said that the dramatically glassed-in Acela Club in left field at Citi, overseen by local restaurant genius Drew Nieporent, raises the bar for all sports-arena food anywhere. Its $48 prix fixe, featuring hors d'oeuvres and selections such as heritage pork with world-class sauerkraut (a top-drawer take on the New York hot dog) or lavishly crab-filled crab cakes with cauliflower-tomato chutney, is top value. But today's food fight is about stadium fodder available to all fans.

So what's the official box score? We totaled up the runs column and declare Citi Field the winner. But the struggle will continue, at least until the end of the regular season. Some New Yorkers are complaining about high ticket prices at the new stadiums and the multimillion-dollar public subsidies for their construction. But the radical improvement in the food service, no matter which team's concessions you prefer, now puts Big Apple teams on a competitive culinary footing with the Boston Red Sox.

Stadium Eats
Evan Sung for The Wall Street Journal
Dogs
Citi Field's top frank is the "Shack-ago" dog at Shake Shack, an outpost of the incredibly popular Manhattan apotheosis of American counter food, from Danny Meyer and Union Square Hospitality Group. On Thursday, Mets fans knew the score and lined up zealously for their "dragged through the garden" Chicago-style sausages, complete with little green "sports peppers."
STAND-UP DOUBLE

Yankee Stadium's top-hitting frankfurter is the hometown favorite, Nathan's, with snapping natural casings. (They're also served at Citi Field, but you'd hardly think about them there, given the competition.) An oldie and a pretty goodie.
SINGLE

Rebecca McAlpin for The Wall Street Journal
Burgers
Citi Field pins its hopes in this category on the charburger from Shake Shack, from St. Louis native Mr. Meyer. Quality patties grilled to a turn are worth the wait, even if some fans got so hungry while waiting in the line that they crammed their faces full of these fine sandwiches and looked like onetime White Sox second baseman Nellie Fox with a quid of Red Man bulging inside his cheek.
DOUBLE

Yankee Stadium's Johnny Rockets's outlet competes toe-to-toe with Shake Shack here. The meticulous charring is an example of what can be achieved by a large fast-food chain.
DOUBLE

Evan Sung for The Wall Street Journal
Seafood
At Citi Field, David Pasternack, of the great midtown fish restaurant Esca, stoops to conquer at Catch of the Sea, with lobster rolls and blackened shrimp po' boys. He is very generous on the lobster, in a correct split bun, but we could have used more mayo. This may have been a case of first-week jitters.
SINGLE WITH RBI

Yankee Stadium has brought in Soy Kitchen to prepare sushi. If you buy it in a supermarket, why not in a sports arena? Just as raw, and just as dead.
POP OUT TO PITCHER

Evan Sung for The Wall Street Journal
Barbecue
Citi Field features another Meyer-empire selection -- barbecue, based on the chef's cityside emporium Blue Smoke. The ribs and pulled pork smoked here are no patch on what you'd get in Texas Hill country, but they'll satisfy even a sophisticated pork jones.
SINGLE

At Yankee Stadium, Brother Jimmy's BBQ, part of a Manhattan mini-chain, depends on sauce to rehydrate its pulled pork. But going the distance is what counts, not how you get on the scoreboard.
SACRIFICE FLY ADVANCES RUNNER TO THIRD

Rebecca McAlpin for The Wall Street Journal
Sandwiches
At Citi Field, no serious contenders.
WALK

Yankee Stadium powders the ball with three league leaders. Boar's Head, the cold-cut giant, steps into the sports arena for the first time. We loved the overstuffed pastrami sandwich (but ask for mustard on the side, to prevent overdosing). Carl's Steaks turns out the same world-class Philly cheese steak it did in the old stadium. And Lobel's, the premium Manhattan butcher, operates a meat shop behind glass for the elite restaurants and sells prime steak sandwiches to the rest of us, who deserve great meat you can eat with one hand while pumping your fist with the other.
THREE HITS, TWO MEN SCORE.

Evan Sung for The Wall Street Journal
Specialties
Citi Field got Floyd Cardoz, chef at the neo-Indian pacesetter Tabla in Manhattan, to reinvent his cooking for the Mexican cafe El Verano Taqueria. It's an amazingly authentic taste of real Mexico -- soft corn tortillas filled with delicious pumpkin-seed-and-chicken mole, pork carnitas or skirt steak.
GRAND-SLAM HOME RUN

Yankee Stadium limps in with La Esquina Latina (Latin Corner). Lackluster Cuban sandwiches and nacho bowls are a foregone failure if meant to appeal to customers with more precise ideas of Latinity.
STRIKEOUT

Email me at eatingout@wsj.com.

Printed in The Wall Street Journal, page W5

[tfc3rid]

Citi Field no sandwich contenders? What about Mama's?

[CoreyNYC]

Citi Field no sandwich contenders? What about Mama's?

LOL. I e-mailed the writer after I noticed that (he also didn't check out the Italian deli at NYS)

[johnql]

I was just checking something on the Mets A-to-Z Guide (http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ballpark/guide.jsp) and under "Concessions", there's the following statement:

"Please reference the Citi Field Ballpark Eats map [my bold] for all concessions locations."

However, I cannot find said map. Has anyone else seen such a map? Please post a link if it exists. TIA

[tomkaz]

video from 1st look ny - sara gore's tour and food sampling

http://lxtv.com/1stlookny/video/9809

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1785302606?bctid=19546546001

[The Old Ballpark]

I was just checking something on the Mets A-to-Z Guide (http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ballpark/guide.jsp) and under "Concessions", there's the following statement:

"Please reference the Citi Field Ballpark Eats map [my bold] for all concessions locations."

However, I cannot find said map. Has anyone else seen such a map? Please post a link if it exists. TIA

I just had the same experience. Looked for it for 10 minutes on the Mets site. Nowhere to be found.

[johnql]

I just had the same experience. Looked for it for 10 minutes on the Mets site. Nowhere to be found.

I emailed the Mets and asked them to send me a URL for the map, but they haven't responded to me yet.

[Jbutta29]

I just had the same experience. Looked for it for 10 minutes on the Mets site. Nowhere to be found.

Maybe its in the Mets Hall of Fame... :lol

yeah i was curious to see though why the omitted Mamas of Corona?!?!

[Fudbutter]

I posted about this before but why do these ballparks totally ignore provding any healthy food? The only things the wife and I are allowed to have at this park is coffee, water and diet soda. The Worlds Fare salad is totally unacceptable vis-a-vis price, quality, construction and lack of fat free dressings. We can cheat every so often but have to make up for it for at least a week so this is not working out well for us.

Last few years our saving grace was that fact that Subway had the option of making salads out of the shredded lettuce and veggie fodder topped with a choice of fat free dressings. I went to Subway yesterday and asked if they serve salads and they looked at me like I had four heads, It's just a matter of stocking plastic plates and forks.

Probably tilting at windmills here, but who can one complain to about this?

[LI METS FAN]

yesterday we went to Catch of The City and I had the flounder sandwich. It was terrific, not inexpensive but really tasty. I will go back there. No line either, and not exactly typical ballpark food but a nice change.

The guys in the seats behind us in the Promenade said that you can now get into the Promenade club regardless of your type of ticket? Don't know if its true, they went in with no problems, don't know if that was a fluke or if usage is low so they let people in.

[Jbutta29]

I posted about this before but why do these ballparks totally ignore provding any healthy food? The only things the wife and I are allowed to have at this park is coffee, water and diet soda. The Worlds Fare salad is totally unacceptable vis-a-vis price, quality, construction and lack of fat free dressings. We can cheat every so often but have to make up for it for at least a week so this is not working out well for us.

Last few years our saving grace was that fact that Subway had the option of making salads out of the shredded lettuce and veggie fodder topped with a choice of fat free dressings. I went to Subway yesterday and asked if they serve salads and they looked at me like I had four heads, It's just a matter of stocking plastic plates and forks.

Probably tilting at windmills here, but who can one complain to about this?

I mean if you are just looking for Salads, well then i dont know, but what do you consider healthy food?!? I would think just eat before or after the park?? Healthy food doesnt seem to be a ballpark staple...

[johnql]

Can someone tell me where they sell the seasoned fries?

[cmcm750203]

Anyone who has gone to weeknight games, have the lines at Shake Shack been any shorter?

[Fudbutter]

I mean if you are just looking for Salads, well then i dont know, but what do you consider healthy food?!? I would think just eat before or after the park?? Healthy food doesnt seem to be a ballpark staple...

Cut out bread, dairy and fried foods and it's a problem.

It's the 1:10 games that kill us. Too early to eat outside before the game and a long time to wait until after.

Just bring back the Subway salad and we're good. I figure that it's worth a complaint (couldn't hurt) but I don't know who to complain to.

[Swoboda4]

Cut out bread, dairy and fried foods and it's a problem.

It's the 1:10 games that kill us. Too early to eat outside before the game and a long time to wait until after.

Just bring back the Subway salad and we're good. I figure that it's worth a complaint (couldn't hurt) but I don't know who to complain to.

Off Topic:
Hey. I have been off the radar for awhile. Couldn't help notice you gave me credit for an idea in your earlier response to Gary D. I'm old, so I don't remember my own idea! What did I say? Seems like I must have offered you free food/drink at some point. It would be my pleasure.

Back on Topic:

Hmm... Healthy food at the game. That is a tough one. Since you are already in the World's Fare market, I would recommend going over to the Mama's of Corona stand and asking if they would add a nice salad to their menu. They are REALLY nice ladies (the owners), and I can't imagine they wouldn't try and accomodate you, (if they are allowed to "free lance" their menu, that is) And by being really nice, I mean you could probably even call ahead to their store, and see if they would do a "one off". If you like, I can PM you their contact info; I know them.

[CoreyNYC]

Off Topic:
Hmm... Healthy food at the game. That is a tough one. Since you are already in the World's Fare market, I would recommend going over to the Mama's of Corona stand and asking if they would add a nice salad to their menu. They are REALLY nice ladies (the owners), and I can't imagine they wouldn't try and accomodate you, (if they are allowed to "free lance" their menu, that is) And by being really nice, I mean you could probably even call ahead to their store, and see if they would do a "one off". If you like, I can PM you their contact info; I know them.

Don't they have salads?

[Swoboda4]

Don't they have salads?

I don't really know. I assumed they didn't, but maybe you are right. Their special sandwich is great, but I've never had one at a game, only from the deli.

[tomzpc]

Cut out bread, dairy and fried foods and it's a problem.

It's the 1:10 games that kill us. Too early to eat outside before the game and a long time to wait until after.

Just bring back the Subway salad and we're good. I figure that it's worth a complaint (couldn't hurt) but I don't know who to complain to.

Why not just bring your own food? It has the added benefit of saving you money.

[CoreyNYC]

I don't really know. I assumed they didn't, but maybe you are right. Their special sandwich is great, but I've never had one at a game, only from the deli.

Come to think of it, they definitely have salads. They also have non-Mama's salads in the Worlds Fare.

[johnql]

Here's Mama's menu (sorry it's a little out of focus):

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/MamasofCorona2.jpg

[Fudbutter]

Don't they have salads?

They have a salad at the Worlds Fare site but it is way overpriced, very basic, too small and no fat free dressings are available (a lot of people think they are eating healthy when they get salads like Ceaser's salad but they are really having something really bad)

[Fudbutter]

Why not just bring your own food? It has the added benefit of saving you money.

To be able to bring our own stuff, we would need a bunch of containers and plastic forks and knives, etc. Way too big a bag. This is only an issue in day games (nice salad or steak at the Pine) and would be solved if Subway served their salad. I was just looing for someone to complain to about it.

We used to bring food when we could have sandwhiches and such though. Big Italian heros from a good deli were really popular. Once we brought 150 White Castle cheeseburgers for our little section and the ushers. They didn't last past the 2nd inning. Then some of the guys didn't "last" through the 5th.

[tomzpc]

To be able to bring our own stuff, we would need a bunch of containers and plastic forks and knives, etc. Way too big a bag. This is only an issue in day games (nice salad or steak at the Pine) and would be solved if Subway served their salad. I was just looing for someone to complain to about it.

We used to bring food when we could have sandwhiches and such though. Big Italian heros from a good deli were really popular. Once we brought 150 White Castle cheeseburgers for our little section and the ushers. They didn't last past the 2nd inning. Then some of the guys didn't "last" through the 5th.

Why are you limited to salads? Lots of healthy snacks that you can put into small sandwich bags. I don't know. I just don't think that it's that big of a deal to bring a small backpack or a small soft-side cooler.

[tomzpc]

Anyone have pictures of any of the Mama's sandwiches?

[Jbutta29]

To be able to bring our own stuff, we would need a bunch of containers and plastic forks and knives, etc. Way too big a bag. This is only an issue in day games (nice salad or steak at the Pine) and would be solved if Subway served their salad. I was just looing for someone to complain to about it.

We used to bring food when we could have sandwhiches and such though. Big Italian heros from a good deli were really popular. Once we brought 150 White Castle cheeseburgers for our little section and the ushers. They didn't last past the 2nd inning. Then some of the guys didn't "last" through the 5th.

I dont know fud, it seems like even though there are some options albeit pricey, you are really hellbent on those subway salads, which im sorry to say, those subway ingredients are not particularly enticing...

[johnql]

Had the KC Spare Ribs from Blue Smoke tonight. I have to say, they were delicious - tasty, freshly prepared, juicy - and they give you a generous portion. I absolutely feel that it's worth the $10 cost. However, the side of fries was just okay, nothing special.

[tomzpc]

Had the KC Spare Ribs from Blue Smoke tonight. I have to say, they were delicious - tasty, freshly prepared, juicy - and they give you a generous portion. I absolutely feel that it's worth the $10 cost. However, the side of fries was just okay, nothing special.

Agree 100% on the ribs. Loved 'em.

[alpineinc]

Agree 100% on the ribs. Loved 'em.

Ha ha, third on the ribs (first time last night as well)! Big portion, best deal in the park.

[alpineinc]

Also, the flounder sandwich is great, nicely coated like in a restaurant, not your typical breaded shell, which I wouldn't have liked. Recommended.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3468/3401940737_00ff500d8d_b.jpg

[alpineinc]

Anyone have pictures of any of the Mama's sandwiches?

Here's the new smaller version of the Mama's Special. The larger ones (2nd pic) are the same as at Shea.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3426/3401941183_4ba020e7c3_b.jpg

http://www.bridgeandtunnelclub.com/bigmap/queens/fmcp/shea/07-13-07/10mamas.jpg

[peterrod16]

alpineinc were you in the delta club last night?

[mandrake]

Anyone have pictures of any of the Mama's sandwiches?

Sorry, had no time to take a picture of it before I woofed one on Sunday. (Italian special)

You know what else is better at Citi ? The trays used to carry stuff back to your seat. Remember that flimsy piece of crap at Shea? You put two cups in it and look out.

The more I go to Citi, the more I realize that I do not miss Shea at all.
Not any part of it.

[alpineinc]

alpineinc were you in the delta club last night?

Ha, no, just found that pic on the net. Not rich enough for the delta club!

[Gary Dunaier]

You know what else is better at Citi ? The trays used to carry stuff back to your seat. Remember that flimsy piece of crap at Shea? You put two cups in it and look out.

One advantage of advertising working out to enhance the average fans' "quality of life" at the ballpark. This is just a guess on my part, but it's possible that Pepsi is paying for those trays, since they have their advertising on them. (They have similar trays at Yankee Stadium, in Yankee colors and with a Yankees-appropriate slogan. Now if we can just convince them to put lids on the sodas up there... :hissyfit: )

[CoreyNYC]

Sorry, had no time to take a picture of it before I woofed one on Sunday. (Italian special)

You know what else is better at Citi ? The trays used to carry stuff back to your seat. Remember that flimsy piece of crap at Shea? You put two cups in it and look out.

The more I go to Citi, the more I realize that I do not miss Shea at all.
Not any part of it.

Those trays really jam up the garbage cans, garbage often is piled up on top of the cans because of it. They need to figure something out (bigger cans?) with that

[johnql]

The big, sturdy Pepsi trays are not available at every concession. Many of the concessions still offer only the crappy ones that were at Shea.

[johnql]

Those trays really jam up the garbage cans, garbage often is piled up on top of the cans because of it. They need to figure something out (bigger cans?) with that

Definitely true. The Pepsi trays are big and sturdy and really do the job well, but they quickly jam the garbage cans. Right now, I think the only solution is for the staff to empty the cans more frequently.

[RegoRooter]

Here's Mama's menu (sorry it's a little out of focus):

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20Food%20Signs/MamasofCorona2.jpg
$2.00 for a pickle? :crazy

[CoreyNYC]

$2.00 for a pickle? :crazy

I think they are those gigantic pickles that you see in the Boars Head jar at a deli

[RegoRooter]

OK. That's cool.

I think the choices @ Citi Field are amazing and the top-notch restaurateurs who've brought their expertise to the ballpark really impress me. :bowdown: And the flounder sandwich I had on Saturday was fantastic. But if I could add one more food vendor it would definitely be Middle Eastern food like gyros and felafel. Whoa! That would be good. :happy:
What if anything would you guys add to an already tremendous food lineup if you could?

[nymdan]

Tonight I tried the turkey sandwich at Mama's for the first time. I'd recommend not putting the peppers and mushrooms on it--tastes better with just the turkey, fresh mozzarella, and gravy. I also had a cannoli--very good.

I also tried the boneless buffalo wings in the promenade. They were good, but I would have liked to see the portion be a bit bigger for $7.50... and they weren't all that warm.

[MetsFanSince66]

Mama's special for me tomorrow. Either that or a shake shack burger. Either way....win/win situation!!! :)