experience by increasing appetite, improving perceived food quality, and encouraging social sharing. Paying attention to presentation can also ensure convenience, reinforce themes, and complement the festive atmosphere. “Presentation is always important. It’s the presentation that separates the home spread from the catered spread,” says Correale. “Especially when the meal you present isn’t just for the eyes in the stadium—it can be for millions of people to see at home via social media, too,” adds Kraus. By infusing gourmet elements into classic game day favorites, you can transform a casual gathering into a memorable culinary event. So, gear up, get creative, and let your game day menu score big with fans. “The desired fan experience is evolving, and we evolve with it,” says Kraus. (Clockwise starting with far left) These Irish Nachos at Fenway Park (home of the Boston Red Sox) feature waffle fries, corned beef, sauerkraut, sour cream, Thousand Island dressing, and queso fresco. Photo courtesy Aramark; Cubano sausage dogs were served during the College Football Playoff National Championship in 2021. Photo courtesy Sodexo Live!; Elevate your game day experience with cauliflower wings with spicy gochujang honey dipping sauce. Irresistibly crispy, spicy, and sweet—a perfect combo. Photo courtesy Unilever Food Solutions
field). Nacho bars (with cheese on drafts) are also consistent crowd- pleasers. “The game day theme works across the board through chef action stations and themed menus,” says Petracci. “We have done weddings at sporting facilities that have featured food items from the bride and groom’s favorite stadium and team.” “Game day foods are comfort foods, so they are a perfect choice for the ‘after party’,” adds Andrea Correale (Elegant Affairs). Elevating game day food isn’t just about the flavors; it’s also about the presentation. Consider using elegant platters, tiered stands, and individual servings to add a touch of class. Small details like garnishes, artisanal bread baskets, and decorative table setups can transform a simple snack table (check out our article for an exploration of the snacking lifestyle) into a gourmet experience. Presentation enhances the game day
or more upscale dips and sides such as guacamole with fresh mango or deviled eggs made into a creamy shrimp dip topped with fish roe. For example, if the guests would like an elevated hot dog, why not serve a footlong Wagyu beef dog with caviar mustard and black truffle shavings? Or how about lobster nachos with white cheddar queso, avocado crema, and microgreens? You could also incorporate international flavors into your game- day fare, such as Korean barbecue wings with gochujang sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and green onion; Mediterranean dishes like Greek yogurt marinated chicken skewers, and a whipped feta dip; or Vietnamese street-style fries. Making mini or bite-sized versions of favorites is another great option for elevating game day fare, especially if it's for an event outside of the sports world (turn to page 22 for a look at an event that took place on a football
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