Miami Marlins Step Up Their Home "Plate"
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – The 2012 baseball season hasn't even begun but the Miami Marlins have already scored a home run—not on the field, but in the kitchen.
Unlike the typical hot dogs, popcorn, and nachos served at baseball games, the new Miami Marlins Ballpark will be serving gourmet meals.
CBS4 News got a taste of the ball park on Friday as the Miami Marlins sampled their new food selections.
Chef Jim Abbey from Levy Restaurants has been planning the stadium's menus for the past five years.
"We have about 38 various concessions stands, but we don't call them concession stands," said Abbey. "We call them mini restaurants because you're going to see more restaurant quality food."
The Marlins Menus will serve restaurant-style meals such as burgers made with a blend of short ribs and brisket served on artisan-baked bread, steak sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches and Mahi Mahi tacos made with chipotle aioli.
Those with a more sophisticated pallet can try the lobster rolls and even have an order of oysters.
"The Taste of Miami" section will offer specials from local food shops such as pork sandwiches from "Papo Llega Y Pon" in Hialeah.
Fans can also expect ballpark classics like the hot dog except these hot dogs will be served on a homemade brioche bun and topped with mango slaw.
Miami Marlins President David Samson said that no matter where guests sit in the stadium, every fan should be able to find great food.
"We wanted to have the best food for the most people and on this level of promenade and vista level, we think Levy has accomplished that," said Samson.
Even fans sitting in the left field can have easy access to food. There is the Clevelander Bar and Restaurant, complete with a pool on premises, where fans can watch the game, enjoy a meal, and go for a swim.
