March Food Madness: The Conclusion

by Nick Giacone March 26, 2018

It’s been a week of a lot of food content over here at T7L Blog, but we have one big matter of business to take care of before we kick off the 2018 regular season. I’m talking about #MetsMadness, of course.

If you need a refresher, we seeded 16 of Citi Field’s food establishments and had them square off in a bracket to determine the top culinary experience at the stadium. We whittled it down to The Flushing Four, and are ready to determine the champion. Here are some of the highlights leading up to this point:

#12 Keith’s Grill had the upset of the tournament, taking down #5 Fuku in the first round. When asked about defeating food giant David Chang, Keith simply replied, “He’s not Keith Hernandez.”

#7 Box Frites took down #2 Blue Smoke in The Elite Ate, proving that the superior form of gourmet meat is in tube form.

#6 Mama’s edged out #3 Pat LaFrieda’s in what’s now being referred to as the “Battle of the Meat Sweats.”

Hold onto your bibs, everyone! It’s time to see who takes home the ultimate prize!

The Flushing Four

#1 Shake Shack vs #4 Arancini Bros

Winner: Arancini Bros

Analysis: The balls prove paramount once again. Arancini Bros knocks off the perceived favorite, Shake Shack, in a classic. This battle validates that risotto-filled greatness will always conquer a three-inning wait for a burger.

#7 Box Frites vs #6 Mama’s

Winner: Mama’s

Analysis: Classic Italian fare shellacs the gourmet hot dog, certifying that a local deli can hold its own against classic ballpark nourishment.

The Provision Pennant

#4 Arancini Bros vs #6 Mama’s

Winner, and The Best Ballpark Eat at Citi Field:

Arancini Bros

Analysis: The balls are too delicious for Mama’s to handle. Arancini Bros’ ragu-stuffed delights are the perfect ballpark bite: small enough to carry back to your seat, too big to finish in one bite. Although Mama’s and their Italian hero had itself a great run, the rice balls reign supreme.

After all that, we’re about ready for some ballpark food. We’re under a week away from the opener at Citi, and hopefully we’ve helped you decide what you’re going to eat.