No matter how the Mets are doing, fans can be assured of a good time at Citi Field thanks to the copious food options from some of New York's best chefs and vendors. Well-known chains around town like Fuku and Shake Shack, alumni from Smorgasburg, and quintessential New York desserts like Mister Softee all cuddle up next to each other on the concourses of the Queens stadium, so there's no need to grab a meal before the game. Here are the best concession stands and foods you need to eat at Citi Field.
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Where to find it: Lil Sweet Chick (Section 103)
Fried chicken lovers face a serious decision on the hunt for snacks at Citi Field: David Chang's Fuku or Sweet Chick spinoff Lil Sweet Chick. No disrespect to Chang and his eminent chicken sando, but we prefer Lil Sweet Chick for our gametime eats, if only because Fuku has expanded with outposts in stadiums up and down the Eastern Seaboard, wearing off some of the novelty. Go for the Nashville-style hot chicken sandwich with a solid dusting of hot spice blend and bread and butter pickles.
Detroit-style square pizza
Where to find it: Emmy Squared (412)
It may seem like heresy to eat Detroit-style pizza in a New York stadium, but we guarantee the slices from Emmy Squared are well worth the culinary crime. While the all-star pizza restaurant group does operate a stand on the 100 level of the stadium, that location only serves the restaurant's dry-aged Le Big Matt burger (a worthy stadium meal in itself), so head up to the 400 level for classic square slices. Try the Emmy pizza topped with mozzarella, banana peppers, red onion, ranch and tomato sauce.
Bash Burger
Where to find it: Bash Burger (Section 135)
Chef Josh Capon has earned official accolades and fan respect for his classic burgers. The simple menu only offers a few options, but they're all winners. Start with the original, which is made with a Pat LaFrieda burger patty, onion and bacon jam, pickles, American cheese and special sauce. Pair with fries for the full effect.
Dole Whip
Where to find it: Section 121 and Dan and John's Wings (Section 335)
This frozen pineapple delicacy once required a trip to Orlando and a ticket to Disney, where it's famously sold beside the Enchanted Tiki Room, but now it's available to Mets fans right inside Citi Field. The pineapple fro-yo makes a Queens summer feel downright tropical.
Mister Softee
Where to find it: Mister Softee (Sections 305 and 412)
For those who prefer their frozen desserts with more quintessential New York spirit, seek out the Mister Softee stands on the 300 and 400 levels. While there's nothing wrong with a classic swirl like the one you get from the truck, simple soft serve is somehow even more delicious eaten from a mini Mets helmet. Don't forget the sprinkles.
Pizza Cupcakes
Where to find it: Jim Beam Highball Club
Quit fumbling with your large pizza and your beer. Join the 21st century with Pizza Cupcakes, the handheld version of the cheesy, carby treat. The popular Smorgasburg seller of the same name has set up shop inside the Jim Beam Highball Club. Grab a bundle six for just $16 and head back to your seat, or stick around to enjoy them with a whiskey cocktail.
