Attending a baseball game and enjoying ballpark food can be a fun experience, but for those looking to save money, bringing in their own sandwiches from a deli is the way to go. However, one fan attending a New York Mets home opener was taken aback by the price of a sandwich being sold at a stand – a whopping $40.55. The sandwich, called the Surf and Turf, featured six ounces of steak, four ounces of lobster salad, cheese, caramelized onions, all served on a toasted French baguette. Despite the high cost, the Mets’ executive sous chef defended the price, stating that they ensure the portion size justifies the cost.
The Mets were happy to invite the fan to try the high-priced sandwich and see if it was worth the money. The executive sous chef, Paul Horowitz, explained that they go through tastings in the offseason to determine pricing based on the portion size. He highlighted that the Surf and Turf sandwich offers a generous amount of protein, which can be more satisfying compared to other options available at stands or fast-casual restaurants. The fan, initially hesitant about the price, found the sandwich to be a good value, especially considering it could easily be split with a friend. While $40 is a steep price for ballpark food, for those feeling fancy and hungry, it may be a worthwhile indulgence.
In a city like New York, where prices for food can be high, the Surf and Turf sandwich may not be as exorbitant as it initially seems. With a lobster roll in Midtown Manhattan costing close to $30 without the added steak, cheese, and onions, the price of the sandwich at the ballpark becomes more understandable. The fan realized that the issue was not necessarily the price but the perceived value of the food being consumed. While he may opt for more affordable options like beers and a corn dog on a regular game day, for special occasions or when feeling indulgent, the Surf and Turf sandwich can be a satisfying choice.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the $40 sandwich comes down to personal preference and budget. For those looking to stick to a lower food budget at the ballpark, bringing in sandwiches from a deli or opting for more affordable options may be the way to go. However, for fans with larger appetites and a willingness to spend more on a memorable dining experience, the Surf and Turf sandwich could be a unique and satisfying choice. The fan, despite his initial hesitation about the price, found that the high-quality ingredients and generous portion size justified the cost, making it a worthwhile splurge for a special outing at the ballpark.
