The Phillies aren’t really expected to do much this season, as the team is looking to sew some seeds for a future championship run with young and untested pieces passing through South Philly in 2016. But with the product on the field perhaps a bit lacking, the team behind the scenes has worked pretty hard to convince Philadelphiansto come to Citizens Bank Park anyway.
And it looks like they’ve succeeded — assuming you like ridiculouslytasty (and fatty) sandwiches, booze and shopping.
Among the laundry list of new things at the ballpark this year, here’s a look at our five favorites:
1. New sandwiches
Sure, you could get a cheesesteak from Tony Luke’s, a hot dog or BBQ from Bulls, but there are some pretty interesting new sandwiches at CBP if you’re feeling adventurous. Harry the K’s has three great ones: A Korean fried pork belly sandwich (as designed by Travel Channel’s Andrew Zimmern), an Amish Turkey Burger with shallot marmalade and sharp cheddar, and a smoked brisket sandwich with whiskey BBQ sauce. Jake’s Wayback is offering a signature burger for the ballpark with a pork roll and mini corn dog on top, while Federal Doughnuts has a delicious fried chicken sandwich.
2. New chains
We have to say, Rita’s Italian Ice goes pretty well with baseball, especially on a hot July night. The Bank is also boasting Chick-Fil-A (open every day but Sundays). The two join other staples like Seasons Pizza, Turkey Hill Ice Cream and Chickie’s and Pete’s as Phillies’ comfort food this summer. 3. Happy hour
There will probably be a lot of stinkers this year — games where the Phillies look positively awful and make you want to leave early. But if you can make it to the final out, XfinityLive offering a pretty generous happy hourfor one hour after the conclusion of each game. They’ll offer $3 beer and half-priced apps for 60 minutes following every home contest. 4. Ballpark booze
It’s not just overpriced beer anymore. It’s also overpriced hard liquor. But it’s good liquor, with Jack Daniels products now available at the park as well as wine, vodka and more. Mixed drinks made with Tito Vodka give a nice sweet taste to a summer night, as does hard root beer and other prepackaged alcoholic beverages. 5. Special shopping
In addition to the usual offerings at the Majestic Clubhouse store, the Phillies are selling a bevy of quirky and trendy Phils-Star Wars apparel. They also are selling high-end items like a Phillies Alex and Ani collection, Pandora and Alex Woo. And as always, a new line of Phillie Phanatic items are always a good gag gift or ballpark memento.
5 reasons to go to Citizens Bank Park this year — even if the Phillies stink
Mitchell Leff, Phillies
