There are few things more American than baseball on a summer afternoon. But for me, as a chef and a Phillies fan, it’s the way food can tell a city’s story that truly sets the scene. I went to culinary school in Philadelphia many years ago.
I recently took my son Max to Citizens Bank Park to celebrate his tenth birthday. It was a beautiful day, the kind that makes you fall in love with summer again. We experienced a great game and a culinary tour of Philadelphia without leaving our seats.
Let me start by saying: The Phillies know how to do food right. Forget the tired ballpark tropes of limp hot dogs and soggy popcorn. At Citizens Bank Park, the concessions reflect the soul of the city. This isn’t just stadium food. This is Philly food.
We started with a cheese pizza from Manco & Manco, the legendary Jersey Shore pizzeria. Though the business began in Ocean City, New Jersey, the pizza reminded me of the kind I grew up eating in Southern Delaware – thin, chewy crust, tangy sauce, and bubbly cheese with just enough char. It had that beach-town boardwalk flavor that brought me back to summer nights by the ocean.
For an authentic taste of Philadelphia, we turned to Tony Luke’s iconic roast pork sandwich, stacked with sharp provolone and garlicky broccoli rabe that we added ourselves. While cheesesteaks often grab the spotlight, ask any local and they’ll tell you this sandwich is the real MVP. It’s rich, hearty, and full of character, just like the city itself.
Max and my wife, Steph, shared a classic Tony Luke’s cheesesteak: juicy beef, melted Cooper Sharp cheese, caramelized onions, and a perfectly fresh roll that was thick and soft and made it a hit. No trip to the Fightin’ Phils ballpark is complete without Chickie’s & Pete’s famous Crabfries, dusted in Old Bay and served with that signature cheese sauce you’ll want to put on everything. Trust me, I know cheese sauce, and this one is a good one.
We grabbed some wooder ice served in an iconic throwback Phillies batting helmet to cool off in the July heat. I’m always a sucker for mango. A beautiful shade of orange, it was sweet, refreshing, and a fun souvenir we took home.
On the field, the Phillies delivered. We beat the Cincinnati Reds 3 to 1, and Zack Wheeler pitched one of the best games of his career. He carried a no-hitter deep into the outing and allowed just one hit – a solo home run. It was the kind of performance you remember for years, especially when watching it with your child beside you, glove in hand and eyes wide with wonder.
What stood out most was not just the win or the food. It was how well the Phillies represented their city. The ballpark is more than a place to watch baseball. It’s a celebration of Philly’s culture, spirit, and appetite. Whether you’re craving roast pork, vegan cheesesteaks, gluten-free treats, or a boardwalk-style pizza, there’s something for every fan.
Max, Steph, and I made memories that day we will always cherish. Great food, great baseball, and great company. That is what it’s all about.
So here’s my advice: Get out, feel the sun on your face, wear sunscreen, cheer on your favorite team, and enjoy everything the ballpark offers. Baseball may be America’s pastime, but it’s also a celebration of heart, hustle, and the flavors that bring people together in Philly.
