Citi Field was transformed into a foodie paradise on Sept. 27 when Stadium Chef Series took over the sports landmark for a remarkable night for the memory books. Chefs and aficionados of both baseball and culinary delights came together for a moment that was a breathtaking home run all in the name of benefiting The James Beard Foundation.
Taking the traditions of the ballpark and mixing them in a winning way with exquisite dining produced an event that the roughly 200 hundred guests in attendance marveled at from start to finish. The crowd applauded the grand work of Marquee Development.
The group simply knows how to curate a night that raves with magical touches that sparkle on a phenomenal cause as the Stadium Chef Series aims to build awareness, foster education, and raise funds for the James Beard Foundation’s Good Food for Good® mission.
As the bright lights of the stadium reflected on the dinner party that showcased a menu meant to be eaten by royalty. The premier dining experience put on a superb display by local and nominated chefs.
The truly once-in- a-lifetime communal feast on the ballpark’s field-level warning track was emceed by television host Adam Richman, and including courses from James Beard Award Finalist Fariyal Abdullahi (Hav & Mar, NYC); James Beard Award Semifinalist Markus Glocker (Koloman, NYC); James Beard Award Semifinalist Greg Baxtrom (5 Acres, NYC; Olmsted and Patti Ann’s, Brooklyn); James Beard Award Semifinalist Camari Mick (The Musket Room and Raf’s, NYC); and Aramark Senior Executive Chef Jason Eksterowicz (Citi Field).
The five course meal paired with wine was intricately designed by the distinguished notable chefs who took time to carefully explain the powerful meaning behind each on of their selections. With masterful motion, dishes were placed in front of guests who took in each scent and taste fully of such servings. The menu included a first course of End of Summer Salad with Watermelon, Heirloom Tomato, Corn, Ayib; second course of Summer Squash Som Tum with Gold Bar Squash, Zucchini, Thai Vinaigrette; third course of Lobster Knödel with Cabbage, Bisque, Sesame Gremolata; fourth course of Tournedos Rossini with Pat LaFrieda Prime Dry-Aged Ribeye and Micro Vegetables, Forest Mushrooms, Celeriac Purée, Foie Gras Emulsion; and dessert of Pink Peppercorn Pavlova, Roasted Pineapple, and Shiso Granita.
“The Stadium Chef Series is a truly unique experience blending culinary excellence with iconic sports venues around the country—and we’re especially thrilled that the kicko< event at Citi Field is debuting in our home city of New York City this year,” said Kris Moon, President and COO, James Beard Foundation. “We thank Marquee Development for their continued partnership, helping us to raise critical funds in support of America’s food culture and a more sustainable, equitable, and delicious future for all.”
Special partners of the memorable night were Melissa’s Produce, William Grant & Sons, Molson Coors, Sysco, and Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyors.
Stadium Chef Series will next make its Washington, D.C.-area debut on Saturday, October 5, as an exclusive cardholder event presented by Capital One. Benefiting the James Beard Foundation® and produced by Marquee Development, the dinner event will be co-hosted by Chef José Andrés and Chef Matthias Merges, featuring a selection of the city’s exceptional culinary talents crafting courses at the iconic Nationals Park.
The premier dining experience will showcase local and nominated chefs curating a once- in-a-lifetime communal feast at center field, including courses and canapés from
James Beard Award Winner Rob Rubba (Oyster Oyster), James Beard Award Semifinalist Ryan Ratino (Jônt, Bresca, Maass at Four Seasons at Fort Lauderdale, and Ômo by Jônt), James Beard Award Nominee Amy Brandwein (Centrolina and Piccolina da Centrolina), James Beard Award Semifinalist Mike Friedman (Aventino), James Beard Award Nominee Susan Bae (Moon Rabbit), Daniel Lugo (China Chilcano), Candice Mensah (Hedzole), James Wozniuk (Makan), and Senior Executive Chef James Pryor (Nationals Park).
For more information, please visit www.stadiumchefseries.com and www.jamesbeard.org.
Photos Courtesy: Stadium Chef Series
