Growing up a New York Mets fan, my childhood and adolescence were filled with many disappointing fan moments:
There was the thrill of the 2000 World ‘Subway’ Series squashed in fives short games by the New York Yankees in (not to mention having to deal with my Yankee-loving sister). A couple of lost playoff opportunities followed, then finally in 2006, one win away from another World Series, Carlos Beltrán cast a shadow on Endy Chaves’ astonishing warning track grab by looking at a called third strike that sent the Mets packing (this happened to occur on my birthday). Then, of course, was the infamous September that they squandered away a seven-game lead to National League East rival Philadelphia Phillies on the last day of the regular season.
However, I digress. Although it is only a couple days into the 2015 season, this current crop of Mets appears to have the talent to be something special. If history repeats itself, there is still the stellar lineup of food at their home: Citi Field.
The Mets have played second fiddle to the Yankees for quite some time in this city, but one area where they undoubtedly reign supreme is ballpark eats. In addition to outposts of Danny Meyers’ staples Shake Shack and Blue Smoke, Citi Field is home to a plethora of exciting dining options.
My personal favorite, Box Frites, is located on the Field Level in centerfield. This Belgian-style frites stand is where I have housed many Buffalo Frites dogs with a side of garlic fries. In addition to other hot-dog and fry choices, they also offer an absurd amount of dipping sauces; such as smoky bacon, buffalo blue cheese, and rosemary ranch. I usually get suckered into indulging in all three.
Another standout with several different locations throughout the ballpark is New-Orleans inspired and beloved Zerocater vendor, Two Boots Pizzeria. Here, you can literally enjoy a piece of Mets history with a slice called “Meat The Mets,” including Creole chicken, pepperoni, sweet Italian sausage, jalapeños, ricotta, mozzarella and piquant sauce.
New additions to the already spoiled array include legendary New York City establishment Rao’s, which will be located on the Excelsior Level of the stadium, serving up everything from chicken cacciatore heroes to a pasta bar featuring their famed sauces.
Finally, Citi Field also welcomes Pressed by Josh Capon, who is widely known for Lure Fishbarand Bowery Meat Company. Pressed will dole out artisanal grilled cheeses, including a short-rib and tallegio option with tomato jam, and a muffaletta similar to what is offered at Bowery Meat Company.
This merely scratches the surface of the food paradise that is Citi Field, folks. Catch the Amazin’s in action this year and experience all of these and more for yourself!
