AT&T Ball Park Series Finale

Alas the season has come to an end. For us Giants fans anyways. October plays on and it already seems inevitable that this will be another year of the underdog upset, but not for San Francisco. We'll take our broken and patched together team back to Arizona and start the rebuild. It was a rough year with just glimpses of the glory we saw in 2010. Humbled we fight on to be 100% for 2012.
I wanted to finish this series as I do most games with something sweet. Today's review features two of the most popular dessert items at the park: The Ghiradelli Sunday and Stormin' Norman's Fry Breads. I had intended to do the Emerald Cinnamon Roasted nuts as well but they were closed during the last game of the season so I'll have to save them for next year.

Ghiradelli Hot Fudge Sunday
Last season my dad got me hooked on these Sunday's and I can't seem to quit. The way the Ghiradelli chocolate hot fudge thickens against the cold vanilla ice cream and some how manages to make it all the way to the bottom it's worth the wait every time!

Locations: Club Level, View Level Section 318, Promenade level Sec 200 (out in the corner near the splash entrance)
Average Wait: 10 - 15 minutes. The lines at any location get long and be aware there is generally one line to the left to pay and a second line to the right for pick up. The staff at any location is not known for their sense of urgency so time your visit well for the wait
Price: $9 (the View Level is just a cart that takes cash only, downstairs it is a huge fixture that takes credit - line is usually longer however)
Value: This is absolutely one of the best sweet treats at the park and it is not small so I would say it is worth it. share with a friend and you won't feel as bad about the money or the calories!
Overall Satisfaction: I would say 9 times out of 10 this really hits the spot. You get the occasional one where the ice cream is too soft or they are stingy with the hot fudge but even in those instances it's still good!

Stormin' Norman's Fry Breads
This one was a pick by mom a few seasons back. She has always been a fan of the funnel cake and while this is not the same it would fall in a similar genre. The breads are for the most part pre made and then heated to order there are tons of different dessert appropriate toppings (strawberries, bananas, nutella, whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, etc). We went with a combo (because we couldn't make up our minds) cinnamon sugar base with strawberries and whipped cream. The bread is soft inside with a chewy exterior, I found with the strawberries it was easiest to eat it in most part with a  fork and knife picking up some of the edge pieces. This is another great dessert to share!

Locations: Just one on the lower promenade level behind the bleachers
Average Wait: Since this is a low traffic area of the park the wait wasn't bad, not sure if there are prime times to go or not go to wait less. However they do often sell out before the late innings o don't wait too far into the game.
Price: $6 - $10 depending on the toppings you choose
Value: For over all size I think this is a great value. Considering the $9 + price points of most items in the park anything under seems great!
Overall Satisfaction: This is just an occasional buy for me. I like it OK I enjoy all the topping, I think the fresher the bread the better, I was a little disappointed that ours was "fried" to order but just reheated as this contributes to the more chewy texture. But over all it is an enjoyable and unique dish.

Over all this was a great adventure around the culinary aspects of the park. I would have to say the Pulled Pork sandwich at the Carvery was the big winner for me very closely followed by the Crazy Crab Sandwich (location and price are what gave the pulled pork the boost). I love how many options we have at our park and I think it is truely indictive of the San Francisco culture which is a testament to how much this team is intigrated into the city. Even though the season is over I am already looking forward to next season and some new Ball Park food adventures! The Sushi on club level and BBQ on the lower promenade still need to be devoured! Maybe even something exciting at spring training in March perhaps??

See you all at the park!

AT&T Ball Park Series #6: Long Taters (Club Level Only!)

I waited alllllll season saving up my club level passes for a "special occasion". I decided taking my mom to a game was the perfect opportunity. We had our tickets and passes ready to go, as we walked up to the gate we were buzzing with anticipation for the hidden culinary treasures we were about to enjoy. Not so lucky. I was woefully unaware of the small print that excluded Dodger's games... of which we were attending. Turned away we indulged instead in crazy crab sandwiches and Strawberry fry bread (to come in the finale post DESSERTS!)

My opportunities were dwindling with the end of the season near. Thankfully the next game I had up was with my eating partner in crime, Ms. Tori herself. On the drive up I perused the options limited to only to club level. A few things initially stood out but as we walked around the level we found something special that was sure to hit the spot- BAKED POTATO BAR!!! Ok I know it may not be that exciting to some of you but to me this sounded just right. There were lots of great options and no limits. I decided to go with shredded orange cheese, bacon, grilled corn, sour cream and green onions. As you can see in the picture to the right they load it up. I initially had to move quite a bit of the sour cream off to the side but the beauty of excess toppings was that after enjoying everything mixed into the middle I was able to create some "potato skins" as an additional treat!

Tori went another direction adding chili (which she described as flavorful without too much spice, having meat, beans and green chilies) bacon and orange cheese. Hers was a little too messy and filling for the potato skin second meal but it was thoroughly enjoyable none the less!

I genuinely hope to get a chance to enjoy one of "Long Taters" baked potatoes again next season!

Locations: Club Level only
Average Wait: This was a bit deceiving the Long Taters booth is in fact connected to the Carvery on the club level (no wonder I liked it!). They share a register however there are two separate lines. The long taters line was not long at all although it does take some time for each person to order. The carvery line was huge though so make sure you don't get in that and wait needlessly.
Price: $8.75 no limit on toppings!
Value: This was a great value, very filling for the cost
Over All Satisfaction: In case you couldn't tell I loved it! The ability to customize your own combination makes it very satisfying. The only downfall I could find was that I would like the potato to be a bit hotter on the inside.

Game Score: Giants beat the Padres 6-4 in extra innings!

AT&T Ball Park Series #5: Outta Here Cheese Steaks

 The quest continues! Outta Here cheese steaks was my next stop on my culinary ball park adventure. Featured on one of Tyler Florence's food vignette's in between innings this is one of the newer concession outlets at the park. I have to preface this with the fact that in general I'm not a huge cheese steak sandwich fan so while I enjoyed it I don't know if I can give a 100% fair comparison to any other cheese steaks out there. Located on the same promenade as many of the one-of food offerings behind the bleachers Outta Here Cheese steaks has a specific limited offering of a classic cheese steak served with cheese whiz style spread, onions, and your choice of hot or sweet peppers, a "San Francisco" Cheese steak with grilled chicken, mushrooms, & onions, or the Nor Cal Veggie cheese steak with grilled shredded zucchini, mushrooms, tomatoes, & onions. Looking back I would be curious to try one of the other "location specific" variations just to see if they are as good as they sound. All varieties are served on Amoroso's Italian rolls the traditional Philly born bread giving it added authenticity. I enjoyed this meal at a game with my dad. He has recently become a huge Philly Cheese steak fan so he gave me some insight. While we both agreed that next time we would do the sweet peppers not the hot (the burn just distracted from the other flavors) He said that the flavor and textures were similar enough to others he had enjoyed. He also observed that this is a great option for someone who is looking for something meaty at the ball park but aren't in the mood for hot dogs or sausages. I couldn't agree more. While I don't think this stand will be my go to I would encourage people to try it especially if you are a fan.

Locations: Promenade level behind Section 142 of the bleachers

Average Wait: We hoped in when there was no line however the service seemed a little slow and a line did build up behind us. This could have just been a day of staff issue however.

Price: $9.25 for the classic

Value: The price is on par with other sandwiches in the ball park of the same size and quality (see King Street Carvery)

Overall Satisfaction: 6.5 out of 10 I can't say it was my favorite but I did eat almost all of it. Would probably suggest it if someone were looking for something meaty and different. It was definitely filling.

Game Score: Lost to the Cubs 2-5.... it's been a rough end to the season hopefully a restful off season and some re-orging will see more hits in 2012. A few more games to look forward to however this year 2 more posts to go!

                 

AT&T Ball Park Series #4: Edsel Ford Fong Asain Cuisine



Edsel Ford Fong Stand

Only in San Francisco!!! As I continue my adventure around the ball park my next stop was what I consider probably the most unique out of all the offerings. How many ball parks can you get an array of Asian cuisines at ?! From sushi to orange chicken, edamame and potstickers, Thai curry and Chicken Satay the Edsel Ford Fong Stand has something for everyone! I wanted to be able to try a few things so I was excited to see that they had a "Combo Plate" option with fried rice, orange chicken and a egg roll. One of the first things that struck me when I got my food was how HUGE the serving was! The plate is served in a plastic togo box that

 seals which is great to keep the food nice and warm as you carry it to your seat. Once we got settled I went for the egg roll first. (Note: if you like a dipping sauce for your egg rolls make sure before you leave the stand you get a little to go container from the left side they have a broad selection available so you can prepare it how you like!) I was very impressed first with the size of the egg roll then with the nice thick crispy wrapping. I find so frequently that egg rolls that are done in quick service places can sometimes sit too long and become soggy but they must prepare these to order or on a very regular basis because they were great and crisp. The

filling was very simple but still tasty. The fried rice was a basic version of the classic- fried egg, peas and carrots. It was lacking some flavor but the texture of rice was good and it was definitely filling! The Orange Chicken was the biggest surprise. Since my time in High School working at an amazing family run Thai restaurant I have had a very high standards for most Asian food. They had some of the best Orange Chicken I have ever had it was nice and crisp with a great slightly spicy sauce. While I'm not sure any other Orange Chicken could ever compare this stuff was not bad at all! The pieces were nice and crisp outside good white meat chicken inside and the sauce was really yummy. While it has been years since I've had Panda Express Orange Chicken I felt like style wise that is the closest comparison, maybe even better. Overall I was pleasantly surprised by the whole experience and I look forward to hopefully trying more of what they have to offer.

Locations: Promenade Level Section 118, Lexus Clubhouse (extended menu)

Average Wait: Since this is a far from average Ball Park menu it may not look as popular, there is rarely a wait- Lucky you!

Price: $10 for the combo plate- See menu picture for additional prices

Value: The size and quality of this plate make it a great value, I suggest splitting it with a friend and buying an extra egg roll so you each have your own, I promise you will both be full!

Over-All Satisfaction: This is a really great option for those who are in the mood for something different. I really enjoyed everything I ate and was very pleased with the portion sizes as well as flavor!

Game Score:Another close one! We beat the Padres 2-1 just by the skin of our teeth!

AT&T Ball Park Series #3: King Street Carvery

I first fell in love with the King Street Carvery concessions (seems like such a cheap word for the fare available at this stand) last season on one of my first games in the 315 vicinity of View Reserve. I had come to a day game and I wanted to branch out from my usual Italian sausage. While surveying my options this stand stood out from the Doggie Diner and heat lamp ruined pizza's as an option for a real meal. I ordered the Carved Turkey sandwich with optional Cranberry sauce (nice and thick) and the side of potato salad. While I did at first balk at the cost (Combined with a beer my total was over $20) I so enjoyed the sandwich that combined with it's close proximity to my season tickets it has become my new standard! (with the exception of the potato salad- it was very tasty but not really necessary the sandwich is filling enough) I now have to introduce all my friends who join me at games to this spot because it really is a can't miss. With the Review as an inspiration I have begun branching out to other  items on the menu and so today I present you with three options. Fore warning- they were not all fantastic, however there are plenty of things that you will really enjoy available!

Locations: View Reserve 317, Lexus Clubhouse, Promenade Level section 126
Average Wait: My main experience is with the View Reserve Location, there are 2 lines (which many people don't realize) Head to the line on the right side of the stand as that one is usually shorter. Line moves quickly although it may take a moment for your order as it is being prepared on the spot not pre-packaged which is totally worth it for the warm fresh flavors

The Carved Turkey Sandwich The picture depicts the sandwich after I have already dressed it to my taste spreading the heaping spoonful of cranberry sauce around with some mayo and deli mustard (condiments conveniently located right next to the stand)
Price: $9.25
Value: I definitely think this sandwich is worth, heaping with thick slices of turkey carved on the spot for your order. It is also served with a pickle spear!
Overall Flavor & Satisfaction: I am never disappointed. The carved turkey is nice and moist, great flavor. The cranberry sauce has excellent consistency and the roll it is served on tastes fresh and holds up well (most times). If you are not a turkey fan I have heard nothing but great things about the Carved Brisket sandwich which is served with horseradish and a pickle as well! Also carved fresh to order

Pulled Pork Sandwich with Creamy Slaw
I am a huge lover of pulled pork and had been eyeing this item warily on the menu for awhile now. I recently enjoyed a game with my dad and decided it was time to give it a try!
Price: $10.00
Value: I'm going to rate this in terms of the cost of this same sandwich at a sit down restaurant and say that the quantity matches the cost
Over All Flavor & Satisfaction: YUM!!!! I was over the top pleased with the sandwich. First of all size wise it is great totally filling. The meat is tender and juicy and the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet with just enough spiciness. The creamy slaw balances everything really well and it is served on the same great rolls as the Turkey & Brisket sandwiches. Fair warning though - this is a fork sandwich! You can maybe if you are lucky make it through 1/3 of the sandwich before the roll begins to fail you, with all that delicious sauce it's gonna get soggy. I recommend tearing pieces of the bun off and loading them with the pork and slaw and eating it in sections and the remaining straight with a fork. And get lots of napkins!
Side Note: This is an original item from Willie McCovey's Restaurant, the aptly named- McCovey's, in Walnut Creek, CA. Read more about the restaurant on their website here.

Boudin's Chili in a Bread Bowl
As a bay area native I grew up with delicious Boudin's sourdough bread always available. Usually i would be a clam chowder in a bread bowl girl however on this particularly chilly (hehehe) night- only chili would suffice! Both options are available however.
Price: $8.25
Value: If you can eat the bread- great, if not the amount of chili or chowder available does not really justify the cost
Overall Flavor & Satisfaction: Here comes the disappointment. I was actually pretty excited to try this one out. I like chili, I love bread bowls but right off the bat I was underwhelmed. My bread had obviously been cut too far in advance and was beginning to taste dry and stale. While the cheese melted in nicely the chili lacked depth and character. I like a dynamic chili with a variety of textures (and lots of beans!). This chili had no beans to speak of and basically was just seasoned ground beef. Within not much time it began to get that greasy unappealing sheen on it. I can't say I would recommend it. At a separate game a friend ordered the clam chowder and was disappointed by how unsatisfied it left her as she did not really enjoy the bread and there was an inadequate quantity of chowder in the large seeming bowl. Your dollars are definitely better spent on other items at this stand.

Game Scores: It's been some hard fought battles this year and I'm sad to report that each game I enjoyed these items at was a lose. Phillie, the D-backs, & the Brewers :( Thankfully we had a great shut out win last night! LET'S GO GIANTS!!

AT&T Ball Park Series #2- the Cha Cha Bowl

Promamade Location

For a few seasons now I have heard rave reviews about the infamous Cha-Cha bowl. Served at Orlando's BBQ named for Orlando Cepeda the Giants 1958 rookie of the year and hall of famer. Orlando's roots are in Puerto Rico and the food at his stand has a distinctly Caribbean flair. The menu is limited almost exclusively to the Cha-Cha Bowl and nacho's with fresh pico di gillo and caribbean seasoned pork or chicken.

I chose a Padres game with my dear friend who is a San Diego native to enjoy this particular delight. It has become our tradition each year to attend at least one game together, one per series if we can. We took the train up which gave us plenty of time to head to the promenade to pick up our dinners. Had I taken more time to notice at the previous games I could have double checked the Orlando's stand on my View Reserve Level to see if they had the bowl as well as the nachos' (which I had sampled at a previous game and was sadly disappointed in...) but alas I had not and didn't want to risk getting all the way up there only to have to trek all the way back down. Although popular there was not much of a line when I arrived at the Orlando's stand to my delight and so I marched right up and placed my order. They had a stack of about 5 pre made bowls ready to go but you could see the fresh ingredients being readily spooned into new bowls at regular intervals. I was not concerned that they had been sitting there long.

While waiting for Jayme to get some Clam Chowder in a Bread bowl I sat down at one of the small tables provided in that area to investigate my purchase. Upon opening the lid I was greeted by a nice aroma from the adobo seasoning on the chicken. The Cha-Cha Bowl has 4 layers- first rice, then black beans, then the pieces of chicken and it is topped last with pineapple and zucchini salsa. If you are looking for a healthy satisfying meal at the ball park- this is your go to. Everything was warm and flavorful, fresh and filling. The chicken was tender and moist with a nice little kick to it while the "salsa" (almost more of a slaw it seemed) added such a nice freshness you really feel like you are eating a well rounded plate.

Location: Promenade Level, View Level near Section 315
Price: $9.75
Value: This feels like a full meal with the multiple food groups represented so I definitely say it is worth the price
Average Wait: Head there earlier than later (pre-game), in the early innings you will definitely hit a line, but since they prep some bowls in advance it should move pretty efficiently
Over All Flavor & Satisfaction: I have to give it another 10 out of 10. The Zucchini Pineapple salsa really put it over the top for me. Plus with all the protein from the chicken and black beans you will stay nice and full the whole game!
Game Score: Lost to San Diego 3-5 but it was a hard fought battle!

AT&T Ball Park Series #1- Crazy Crab Sandwich

It was a beautiful evening at the ball park last night. Summer is finally coming around and with a nice 5 pm start time I was looking for a really satisfying dinner at the park. I wanted to start this series off with a unique item that really typified San Francisco. The Crazy Crab'z sandwich was an excellent choice. Located on the
Promenade level behind the bleachers at Center Field the Crazy Crab'z booth is a part of a unique food court of sorts featuring many "one of" options in the park. I was glad we had arrived early so I could make the trek from my seats in view reserve down to the booth. I had heard rumors from other fans that this sandwich could not be beat. As a specialty item I think that it is definitely not an every game meal but a special occasion treat. It's singular location and high end price (The Crazy Crab is $15.50, There is a dungeness crab sandwich for $11.50, I am unsure at this time what the primary difference is that lowers the cost) will probably keep me from indulging frequently but that is ok because it will give me something to look forward to. As I approached the front of a quick moving, not excessively long line I was pleased to see the the delicious aroma I was smelled was the thick cut sourdough bread spread with garlic butter grilling on a larger griddle. Piled high with crab meat lightly dressed in mayo and served with sliced fresh tomatoes I couldn't wait to get my sandwich back to my seat. Unfortunately the national anthem began as I walked away from the booth so I stopped out of respect carefully wrapping the sandwich in the paper lining while Nancy who had accompanied me to the game tried to protect it in her jacket ( I'm sure we made quite the picture, but I wanted to know I was trying it at it's optimal serving temperature). I hustled up to my seat (no small feat, if given the time next time I'll enjoy my sandwich at one of the standing room cocktail tables scattered throughout this concession area) and prepared to dig in. The bread had a nice golden toast on it and tasted amazing. I was wary after the first bite that it might be imitation crab but on closer inspection there was no unnatural pink parts and were in fact a few nice chunks of claw meat. The cool fresh tomato was just the right balance with the rich crab meat and mayo and lightened it up with it's natural acidity. They provide lemon wedges on the side and I did a light squeeze over the crab meat on my second half. It did add a nice component but wasn't really necessary, probably more of a personal preference addition. All in all the sandwich was a great experience & I would highly recommend it to someone wanting to make their ball park experience a unique one, especially out-of-towners who want to soak in as much SF as they can.

Location: Center Field, Promenade Level (1)
Price: $15.50
Value: Lots of crab meat and great Bread. If this were served in a restaurant at the same price it would probably come with french fries or another side dish to add to the value, however for a specialty item at the ball park I think it was alright, a little too pricey to get every game.
Average wait: 5-8 people but moves quickly since it is a specialty item and minimal customization options
Over all flavor and Satisfaction: 10 -10, was tasty and plesantly filling without the risidule junk food feeling that many ball park options have.
Game Score: Giants Win! 4-2 over the Reds