While Commanders fans are focused on the game’s outcome, the food captivates just as much as the game changing third down play in the fourth quarter. For Levy Restaurants Executive Chef Pernell Morton, he has created game day menus that are delicious, fun, and creative.
Football fans have come to expect a huge spread on game day. While there will always be a place for pretzels, hot dogs, and nachos, the classic dishes sit side by side with over the top creations. From elevated ingredients to trending flavors, the chefs can create concession stand meals that are just as impressive as a sit down dinner.
For Chef Morton and Northwest Stadium, each home game is an opportunity to offer a unique menu item. Each game the stadium creates a special chicken sandwich in honor of the Commanders’ opponent. The hospitality staff tracks whether the home or away team sandwich earns top billing.
During a conversation with Chef Morton, he shared some insight on the games’ food menu. While he had not finalized the Philadelphia Eagles menu at the time of our conversation, he hinted that the food would have an Italian slant.
Looking at the Falcons’ game, Chef Morton is excited since he spent many years in Atlanta. He said, “The last game is going to be neck and neck for the Commanders. I think that the Falcons inspired chicken sandwich will have some pimento cheese on it. Since I lived in Atlanta for seven years, I want to do something a little extra special. It will definitely be one of my favorites.”
While there might always be a battle of the chicken sandwiches on the Commanders’ game day menu, there are plenty of food items that appeal to everyone’s preferences. Chef Morton recommends the brisket nachos, foot long dog, and the smash burgers.
Chef Morton is continually thinking ahead. Although the NFL season will be coming to a close soon, he is already thinking about 2025. When asked what additional items that he would like to add to the menu, he said, “I would like to expand out BBQ and incorporate ribs. Ribs are making a comeback now. Also, I would like to expand on specialty burgers. For example, we could do something beyond our smash burgers and incorporate some fun toppings.”
The key to the Levy Restaurants success as stadium hospitality providers is that the brand continually adapts to both guests’ cravings and food trends. Given that people want easy to eat, handheld food but also elevated flavors and ingredients, it gives chefs, like Chef Morton, an opportunity to experiment and push people’s boundaries. From globally inspired flavors to reimagining how people think about classic dishes, these concessions stands are far from what your father remembers.
For now, there are only a few more games to enjoy the Commanders menu for the 2024 NFL season. Chef Morton is ready to end the season with a feast. Hungry to get that taste of food deliciousness?