Are there any worthy, new food offerings at Busch Stadium this year? —Jon G., St. Louis
Every year, there's always something new to eat at the ballpark—and usually an over-the-top item or two.
I can offer a smattering of what's new. But worthy? Opening Day was only yesterday. It's way too early to make that call.
Over the years, the Cards have rolled out some wacky and whimsical items: the Bratzel, a Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dog topped with all the fixin’s (including baked beans), the Bullpen Mojito (is that what’s in those plastic coolers out there?), and red plastic helmets filled with either ice cream, nachos, or mini-donuts.
The biggest, most significant change this year is the addition of Budweiser Terrace, a massive addition replacing 1,000 seats in the upper deck of right field. The multi-level addition was designed so that fans could mix and mingle, watch and wander. The 20,000-square-foot space is open to all ticket holders and features two bars, lawn games, cabana seating, performance stage, and standing areas and lounge seating with great views of the field. Budweiser Terrace boasts $5 beers until the first pitch and three new items, cooked on an open-air grill:
- Grilled Chicken Bats: Smoked chicken legs in BBQ, buffalo, or hot honey sauce
- Jumbo Shrimp Skewer: Four grilled jumbo shrimp marinated with garlic and fresh lime
- Sausage Bites: A choice of three sausages, chopped and topped with spicy aioli
(For the decision-impaired, all three are available in a Grand Slam Mixed Grill for $25.)
Behind Section 141 is 1764 Craft Pub, an offshoot of Derek and Lucas Gamlin's 1764 Public House in the CWE. It offers 30 regional and national beers on draft.
Located at the concession stands outside Section 135 (Double Play Tap ‘n Grill) and Section 162 (Ballpark Favorites), fans can use self-ordering concession kiosks, which accept credit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
And next to Gate 1, look for Coca-Cola Cantina Street Tacos, three pulled pork tacos with BBQ sauce, pico de gallo, toasted onions, and a lime wedge. For $9, you get all that and a bag of chips.
Editor's Note: Perhaps this season's biggest worthy addition was a mobile cart from Gioia's Deli that was to sell its famous hot salami sandwiches. Alas, after one disappointing day of service, owner Alex Donley pulled the plug on the endeavor. SLM was first publication to report the details.
Follow George on Twitter @stlmag_dining or send him an email at gmahe@stlmag.com. For more from St. Louis Magazine, subscribe or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
