Going to Philly to watch a baseball game was an eye opener to say the least (actually it was a mouth opener). The stadium is absolutely amazing and I’ve been waiting ever since to hear what the story is regarding the food offerings at Citi Field next year. Thanks to the New York Times I can start salivating right… now.

It looks the folks in charge are swinging for the fences. The Shake Shack and Blue Smoke are leading off and that’s music to my taste buds.

While I’ve found the Shake Shack extremely overrated, it will be great to have this as an option.You might actually be able to go to Queens for a burger and a ballgame in less time than it takes to wait in the ridiculous lines of Madison Square Park. While I think there are better burgers in the City, this will be the best burger you’ve ever had at a stadium. The Shake Shack will also deliver in the required ballpark offering of hotdogs. Except these dogs can go to 11: mustard, relish, onions, cucumber, pickles, tomatoes, sport pepper and celery salt are standard on the Shack-Cago Dog. How about a hot caramel, toffee, chocolate chunk, and frozen custard shake? I know, I want one too. Very badly.

Blue Smoke’s presence at Citi Field enables Americans to chow delicious barbecue while watching baseball which is a constitutional right. Well it should be anyway. If you’ve never had the red-neck pleasure of eating deviled eggs and watching home runs, it is on the horizon my friends and it will be delicious.

If you find the Shake Shack’s fries lacking, Citi Field has you covered. We’ve been promised Belgian-style fries. Gone are the days when soggy potatoes are your only option at the ballpark. Now mountains of crispy, salty, twice fried frites await the seventh inning stretch and we’re not stuck with ketchup. I’m talking about mayo people. You have to trust the Belgians on this one. They invented fries… or at least they claim they did. Whatever, as long as they keep ‘em coming.

I see we’ve also been given a taqueria at Citi Field and while there aren’t any details yet, I can tell you that tacos are always a good thing. I also know that nachos are a good thing. As are quesadillas… and taquitos… with guacamole on them. I’m crossing my fingers that micheladas will be offered.

This is just the beginning my friends and a great one at that. I seriously think Citi Field is going to replace my local bar next season. If you’re looking to grab a few cold ones and shoot the breeze, I’ll be in center field stuffing my face.