How to Survive the Final Homestand at Citi Field... with Food!

by Allie Ditkowich September 22, 2017 0 Comments

It’s the end of a less-than-stellar season for the Mets, one that started with postseason hopes that were dashed before Memorial Day. But that doesn’t mean us Mets fans need to feel as broken as Wilmer’s nose.

Of course you’re loyal ’til the last out, but a Mets fan can only take so much Bryce Harper hair whipping, and with the Nationals in town this weekend, it's going to be whipping. You know it. So distractions will be welcome in these final six games at Citi Field, and what better way to add a little more excitement to your last trip to the ballpark before a long winter than with the tried and true eating of your feelings?

We know Citi Field is home to arguably some of the best ballpark grub in the game, which makes it the perfect place to emotionally eat while second-guessing Terry between bites. Shake Shack, Dö, and Fuku get all the press, but there are some hidden gems throughout the park that will turn any game into a dining experience with a heaping side of baseball.

Goya Nachos

The nachos at Citi are the absolute best-kept secret, just like whatever dirt Ray Ramirez must have on the Wilpons that has kept him gainfully employed. A variety of choices, reasonably-priced, and incredibly filling. They’re the perfect grab for a baseball meal. They’ve got locations on the Promenade and Field levels where you can choose from chicken, beef, or meatless, with toppings such as queso, shredded cheese, jalepeños, pico de gallo, beans, and more. Make sure to ask for guacamole and sour cream, as they're usually hidden away.

Pro tip: When getting nachos from one of the stands, head to a condiment station afterwards for what my friends and I like to refer to as, "The Citi Field Salad.” Top off your ‘chos with diced onions, shredded lettuce, and some Cholula. You will not regret it.

Pat LaFrieda Steak Frites

Not enough people know about these, just like Justin Turner’s talent in 2013. Served at the Pat LaFrieda stand on the Promenade level, it’s the younger and more attractive version of the famous Pat LaFrieda steak sandwich that people line up to shell out $17 for. It's like the sandwich, but over waffle fries, and for a fraction of the price. You’ll feast on delicious fries topped with oozy, melted cheese, and finished off with delicious steak and sautéed onions. No-brainer...like getting an MRI when the doctor tells you to.

Pro tip: Share this with a friend first, and then eat more food.

Mama’s of Corona Italian Hero

Mama’s of Corona has been a staple at Mets games forever, but they fly so far under the radar that I don’t think I've ever waited in line at one of their locations–ever. That's almost as shocking as a clean inning from Hansel Robles. But their Italian hero sandwich is 100% worth the trip to one of their two locations at the ballpark. Spend less time away from your seats and more time biting into some perfectly cured Italian meats paired with fresh mozzarella cheese on a hero roll.

Pro tip: Try and find mayo. They have packets inside the Delta club, but seemingly nowhere else. That means you'll need an extra trip, but this sandwich is amplified by mayo. So do whatever it takes, even if you don’t have club access; bribe an usher, bat your eyelashes at a security guard, whatever. And make sure to add some lettuce from the condiment stands as well.

Nicoletta Chicken Parm Sandwich

This sandwich is not only one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had at a ballpark, but it’s one of the best I’ve ever had, period. The sauce to chicken ratio is perfect, allowing for minimal dripping to keep that $250 authentic jersey of yours clean. The cheese is soft, gooey, and cool, adding a nice balance to the crisp, hot chicken. This place is off the beaten path and usually goes unnoticed. I’ve never stood in line with more than three people ahead of me, so head past that atrocious Shake Shack line and right to the good stuff, across from Kiddie Field.

Pro tip: Ask for a little extra sauce on the side for some dipping action that still follows the tobacco-free guidelines at Citi Field.

So even if your soul is crushed, eat your heart out while attending these last few games of the 2017 season, Mets fans! Just please, whatever you do, don't do the wave. Just don't.

For more of what the ballpark has to offer, check out @amazinmetsfood on IG.