Monday, June 25, 2012

Weird Food at Rangers Games

Are you hungry?  Twitter, Yelp, and other social media users recommend these new and unusual items at Rangers Stadium.

When it comes to food at the Texas Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, the articles usually detail a reporter's opinion of the 3 pound pretzel. However, what about the opinion of fans and food critics about those stranger items? Although comments about the food are few and far between, Twitter, Yelp, and other social media sources provide feedback (pun intended) on the food found at a Rangers game. 

1. Frito Pie Hot Dog: A bit of an oddball favorite enjoyed throughout the U.S. (it is covered in processed cheese), Rangers Ballpark introduced their own in 2011. What are fans saying about this take on theFrito Pie Casserole loved throughout Texas? The Newberg Report Texas Rangers forum and Dallas Observer have a couple of enthusiastic voices -- but what about others? There are a few mentions on Twitter that the Frito Pie Hot Dog was consumed and loved at Rangers Ballpark, but most were talking about Sonic's Chili Cheese Fritos Coney

2. The Boomstick Hot Dog: You can be tempted by all the reviews online that talk about the new hot dog at Rangers Stadium -- but does anyone like it? In general, people love the Boomstick with a couple of exceptions. On Twitter, ‏@TatumRCave says, "No. I do love food but im not paying $26 for a 2-foot hot dog at the rangers stadium." Along those lines, Mark H. at Yelp quips, "I had the $26 footlong. Nothing special. My hopes were dashed. Everything else is great!" 

3. $1 Hot Dog Night: Over at Yelp, Jackie A. states, "My tips: Wednesdays are $1 hot dog nights--just beware that the other food is outrageously expensive, as expected of ballpark food. And if you don't mind nosebleed seats, you can go to a game for as little as $5." If you are wary, put your fears aside. Do not think about these hot dogs being on the cheap side just because they are $1. @RachRobillard posts a photo that proves they are worth every cent. 

4. Hot Dog with '30' Toppings: Jason T. on Yelp says, "Hot Dog...there is a spot with the Food Network sign on it. They offer hot dog with your choice of sides...I got mine with grilled onions, bacon chunks, and cheddar cheese. The lady next to me went for no dog and used beans instead. They have about 30 different toppings. Take your pick." In reality, there are only about 15 toppings -- and that is definitely a lot of variety. 

5. All You Can Eat Home Run Porch: Yahoo! Answers user Sonny posted a question about buying tickets to a Rangers game with the 'all you can eat' option. At the Rangers' website, their All You Can Eat Seats page says, "Enjoy a Rangers game from Sections 246-252 in the All You Can Eat Porch for any 2012 Rangers home game. Your ticket includes all you can eat hot dogs, nachos, soft drinks, peanuts, popcorn, and grilled chicken sandwiches." They list prices of these tickets from $31 to $53. 

At TripAdvisor, one user says that the All You Can Eat Seats provide a patio with a helpful breeze for those hot Rangers games. Over at Yelp, Deno F. notes that this buffet has one thing missing. In her review she says, "And really--no chili as a condiment for the nachos and hot dogs. Shame on you Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. This is TEXAS, we top everything with chili, including chili." 

6. Smokehouse 557 Turkey Legs: When it comes to things you rarely see elsewhere, smoked turkey drumsticks is one of those items that you have to put on your bucket list. The Flickr photo of a fan eating a turkey drumstick at a Rangers Game certainly makes this point clear. Agreeing with this sentiment is blogger Bo Reed at StadiumJourney.com

7. Garlic Fries: When my family gathered for vacation and went a Rangers Game, garlic fries were on the top of the list. Agreeing with that sentiment is Leah H. posting on TripAdvisor with an enthusiastic, "Be sure to get the cheese or garlic fries!" @NikkiRap adds a photo from the Fry Depot of what you might be missing out on. 

8. Captain Morgan Club: Completed in April, this restaurant has air conditioning (a rarity), a kid's zone and, "A full a la carte menu will be offered including burgers, salads, sandwiches, and BBQ fare." If you love hot dogs, this where you can try the aforementioned Champion Dog (A.K.A. the 'Boomstick'). Needless to say, any place with air-conditioning at a Rangers Game always gets the highest marks from fans. 

9. Anything cold: When you go to a Rangers game, be prepared for the searing Texas heat. The best way to cool down is with water, a frosty beverage, or ice cream (or going to the Captain Morgan Club). One great tip comes from Jason T. on Yelp who says, "Best deal of the day was a $1 ice cream drumstick by Blue Bell." The low price on ice cream is part of Blue Bell Sundays at the Rangers Ballpark. 

10. Sausage Sundae: A Rangers blog describes it as, "smoked sausage, scoops of macaroni and cheese, chopped brisket and garlic mashed potatoes." But is it worth it? The SportsAndFood and DFW.com blogs both say that your dollars will be well spent on this take on home cooking. 

The Darvish Burger is not at Rangers Ballpark
 

The big news for 2012 includes a food item added to an Arlington restaurant that welcomes Yu Darvish. Does this mean that Rangers Stadium will be adding sushi? DallasNews.com says that an Asian food cart did not favor well when it was introduced a few years ago -- although they claim some Asian food will be added to honor Darvish. Alternatively, 1.5 miles away at BoomerJack's Grill, you can chomp on the new Darvicious Burger with four meat patties, blue cheese, fried onions, a spicy sauce, and other ingredients. 

In conclusion, what is your favorite Rangers Stadium food? Take a moment to add to the comments below or list your choices at the thread on Yahoo! Answers. Do not forget to mention if you have had any of the new food items (like the S'mores Pie) that the Dallas Observer listed on their website for 2012.


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