ON THE MENU By Amber Kispert Game Day Grub
Progressive Field (home of the Cleveland Guardians) features the fun and whimsical Slider Dog from local restaurant The Happy Dog, with pimento mac and cheese, bacon, and Froot Loops © . Photo courtesy Delaware North
Caterers can score big business with elevated takes on game day favorites
G ame day. It’s not just about the action on the field; it’s about the experience, the camaraderie, and the food. For caterers, game day presents a golden opportunity to shine, transforming traditional tailgate and couch snacks into gourmet delights that leave fans cheering for more. “Food is an integral part of the [game day] experience, and we challenge our chefs and team members to create exciting, signature food items that put a twist on a
hometown favorite,” said Ken Gaber (OVG Hospitality) in a press release. The MVPs of a game day menu are similar from year to year—finger foods like wings, nachos, hot dogs, sliders, and fries reign supreme. “The old standards never go out of style,” says Jimmy Petracci (Proof of the Pudding). “We are hearing from our clients and guests that simple food, executed well consistently, is more important than ever.” However, today’s diners are also craving twists on these classics.
“There is always room for our chefs to take basic game day items to the next level,” says Petracci. “The foundation of game day fare gives chefs a great jumping-off point to add their own touches. Whether it’s elevating a tired nacho plate to a brisket burnt-end nacho bar or creating custom chef’s tables around a game day favorite concept, the sky is the limit.” Let’s look at how your game day foods can make a play for the big leagues.
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SUMMER 2024 FALL 2024 ■ CATERSOURCE CATERSOURCE
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