MLBFC Debates: Best Ballpark Food

There are many things that go into the overall experience that a person has while taking in a Major League Baseball game at the ballpark. There’s the drama of the game, the roar of the crowd and, in some places, the spectacle of fireworks. Yet, there is one aspect of the stadium experience that reigns supreme with a large number of fans: the ballpark food.

Many stadiums have come up with customized food combinations or items that represent the city they are in, but most of them provide the traditional favorites. So, what is the best traditional ballpark food item? Cave Dwellers Ricky Mast and Kyle Thompson debate.

Ricky Mast: Hot Dogs

Fact: Hot dogs are far better than anything Kyle Thompson says. Other reasons hot dogs are better include:

1. Instant Gratification – I don’t know about you, but when I’m hungry, I want food in my belly NOW. Not only does a hot dog taste great, but the average person can polish off a standard dog in 2.75 bites (this data was collected during a scientific study conducted by me every time I eat a hot dog). You can go from starving to happiness in no time.

2. More Bang For Your Buck – A hot dog is basically a complete meal by itself. Furthermore, it includes the two most important food groups: bread and pig. So you have a complete and healthy meal, and it costs about the same as a candy bar. Plus, you can put chili on it. That doesn’t really have anything to do with the cost, but dude, seriously, you can put chili on it. I win.

Kyle Thompson: Sunflower Seeds

This Ricky Mast guy must be a stadium food rookie based on what I just read. Sunflower seeds are clearly the best for two main reasons:

1. Longevity – As great as hot dogs are, you can only enjoy them for short periods during the game (unless you are Joey Chestnut, and that is another story). If I am going to be at a game for a long time, then I do not want to leave my seats multiple times just to make trips to the concession stand. If you want a snack that you can enjoy for extended periods of time, then sunflower seeds are the way to go.

2. Variety – You can never go wrong with original flavored seeds, but if you are looking for a change of pace, then sunflower seeds provide you that opportunity. Seeds now come in flavors like ranch, BBQ and nacho cheese. You can even find flavors like bacon, buffalo wings and pickle. A hot dog might SEEM like a full meal, but with the plethora of flavors of seeds available, it’s like a smorgasbord of awesome with every spit.

That’s what we enjoy, but what do you like to munch on? Be sure to leave a comment with your preference, and don’t forget to follow Ricky (@RickyMast) and (@kyleokc)Kyle on Twitter.