From barbecue to tacos to hand-crafted burgers, fans are going to notice a new look and bold new taste at Orlando City and Orlando Pride matches this season.
We heard you loud and clear, soccer fans: Local concessions options are coming to Exploria Stadium for the 2023 campaign.
In addition to familiar returning favorites like Pizza Hut and the Heineken Church Street Lounge, the stadium is introducing five new, permanent local flavors as part of the organization's "Orlando Made" initiative, which was formally announced Wednesday ahead of City's regular season opener.
What does that mean for you? For starters, revamped concession stands with a refreshed, modern look and feel. Plus, delicious menu options filled with your favorites from local restaurants right here in Central Florida, including 4Rivers Smokehouse, The COOP by 4Rivers, Teak Neighborhood Grill, Black Rooster Taqueria and Harrell's Hot Dogs + Cold Cones.
There will also be a rotation of other local notables on the concourse, welcoming game-by-game options such as Mexican-inspired Cholo Dogs, Sus Hi Eatstation and others to be announced throughout the year.
In other words, come hungry.
To get you ready for match day, here are our must-try selections and where you can find them.
4Rivers Smokehouse | Section 31/1
Our pick: BBQ pulled pork sandwich with kettle chips
You just can't beat a barbecue classic. Fork-tender pork on a hearty bun and topped with 4Rivers' famous tangy sauce? It's a winner any night -- but even better when you're donning your purple while watching your favorite team. Add the crunch of the kettle chips and pair it with an ice-cold Pepsi, and you're guaranteed three points of deliciousness.
The COOP by 4Rivers | Section 9
Our pick: Hand-breaded chicken tenders with French fries
It's official: Winter Park's The COOP by 4Rivers has taken a stadium classic and turned it into a stadium revolution. Oh yeah, these aren't your average tenders -- these are two hand-breaded cuts of piping-hot homestyle chicken served atop a bed of crinkle-cut fries. Dip them in one of The COOP's three tasty sauces -- ranch, hot or barbecue -- and you're in for a real treat.
Also, a little insider pro tip: The COOP, Teak and Harrell's all serve their own unique fries, and yes, they're all must-try.
Teak Neighborhood Grill | Section 18/19
Our pick: Drunken Monk Burger
Straight out of MetroWest, Teak Neighborhood Grill is taking hand-crafted burgers to a whole new level.
Their signature Drunken Monk Burger is topped with smoked bacon, provolone cheese, roasted cherry tomatoes, house-made Angry Orchard onion jam, herb mayo and melted white cheddar -- all on a pretzel bun.
Don't miss the Teak chips either -- and maybe the napkin dispenser before you head back to your seat.
Black Rooster Taqueria | Section 24 - 'The Wall'
Our pick: Chicken Tinga Tacos
The best tacos in Orlando are now in the best stadium in Orlando. Topped with pulled chicken, lettuce, radish, cotija cheese and fresh cilantro, Black Rooster -- originating from the Mills 50® District -- will have you coming back for more.
Another fun fact: Exploria Stadium is the only place you can get a Black Rooster taco served up on a flour tortilla. Our mouth is watering, too, don't worry.
Harrell's Hot Dogs + Cold Cones | Section 30/31
Our pick: Orlando City Stadium Dog
Orlando City and the Orlando City Stadium Dog? It's a match made in foodie heaven. Already a must-have at any sporting event, Harrell's of Winter Garden is putting a special soccer spin on this hot dog. Nathan's Famous frank? Check. House onion sauce? Check. Sauerkraut and sport peppers? Check. Spicy brown mustard? Check, check, check.
We'll take two, please.
For more on these Orlando Made favorites and where you can support them in the community, click here.
