February 27, 2026

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Play Ball! A Food Tour of Ed Smith Stadium

Let’s take a little stroll around the bases!

⚾ Batter Up! Baseball and food just go together. I don’t think I need to tell you that. 😉

Here’s an example. There is a short little ditty written all the way back in 1908. It’s sung in the middle of the seventh inning at just about every professional baseball game. There are a couple of food items name-checked in that catchy tune. Yes, you can get peanuts and Cracker Jack at every stadium. But why settle for that when there is sooooo much more…

The 2026 edition of MLB spring training started at parks here in Florida and in Arizona last week. That means brilliant green fields, maybe a hot dog (or two), something cold to drink, and lots (and lots) of sunshine.

We’re lucky to have three places to take in a spring training game all within a pretty short drive. And each of our local Sarasota and Manatee County baseball parks has its own uniqueness.

But they also all have one thing in common: FOOD!

Why don’t we take a quick spin around Sarasota’s own Ed Smith Stadium!

1️⃣ First Stop, The Left Field Concourse. That’s where you can find Boog’s BBQ. Yes, it’s the same Boog as the Orioles’ great Boog Powell. This is where you can find the “Big Boog.” It’s 8 ounces of savory smoked beef or pork served up right from the pit. 🐷

BBQ not your thing? That’s OK, there are lots of dining options left.

2️⃣ Next Up, Some Grilling! Tucked neatly behind the first base grandstands is the source of some of the most mouthwatering aromas of the park. Yes, they are grilling burgers, sausages, and of course, jumbo hot dogs!

There is usually a pretty good-sized line here. But it is most definitely worth the wait. The burgers served at this particular stand can hold their own with any burger I’ve had at a ballpark (and I’ve had more than a few). I know that’s a BIG statement, but it’s true. We wrote about them. You can READ THAT HERE! 🍔

📝 I’ve been telling friends for years that this first base grill stand is the ONLY place you should get a hot dog at Ed Smith. Most happily take that advice. Others, who think they know better, end up saying, “I’m getting THAT next time.” Do yourself and me a favor, don’t wait till next time! 🌭

3️⃣ A Break from the Sun. Sometimes it can get hot out there. If a little AC with your food is what you’re looking for, you’re in luck. Behind home plate is Café 54. A nice little oasis from the action on the field.

You can get all kinds of Boar’s Head deli sandwiches and salads. It’s a great place to cool off. But don’t stay too long, you don’t want to miss any of the action on the field!

Yes, you can get Chick-fil-A (except on Sunday, of course). It’s actually probably easier to grab that here than at the actual restaurant. Every time I’ve ever driven by one, the line looks like a “bank run.” 😯

Looking for something just a bit healthier? I’m really not sure why this is even a thing. Yes, I get it that we shouldn’t be stuffing ourselves with hot dogs and Italian sausages every day. But shouldn’t a baseball game be the time for a splurge??

📝 It also strikes me as just a bit odd that they have the “non-healthy” choices listed first on the menu! And, since when did Nachos with Cheese become health food? Also, what’s with the side of “Kraut/Cheese?” 🤷‍♂️

🥛 You’re Going to Get Thirsty. It’s going to happen. It’s warm out; you’ve eaten healthy (or less than healthy) food. And now you need something to wash it down with. Not a problem!

You can get a cold beverage at any of the main concession stands. For adult beverage choices, there are a few places in the park that are just set up for beer/wine/seltzers. These are great if you just want to grab a beer and keep moving. It also means you don’t have to wait in the food line to do it! 🍺

No, sadly, you cannot get “The Beer Refreshing” at Ed Smith. This guy may be slightly disappointed when he reaches the front of the line. My money says he’s from the Midwest!

🍨 One Last Stop. Sometimes you just need some dessert to tie it all together.

Yep, Dippin’ Dots, the Ice Cream of the Future, is here today! I wonder if this really is the future of frozen confections. It’s been around since 1988. So, just maybe the “future” is now! 🤔

That’s it for our stroll around the bases of Ed Smith Stadium. We’re lucky to have this beautiful spring training ballpark right in our backyard. You need to take advantage of it while the window is still open!

📝 END NOTES –

(a) Boog’s BBQ has been serving up their signature dishes at Camden Yards in Baltimore since 1992! They’re famous for their Pit Beef. It’s a local specialty that’s been around since the 70s. If you happen to be in Charm City, try Chaps Pit Beef and Pioneer Pit Beef. They are two of the local Baltimore faves. 🤠

(b) Have you ever thought about what an “elevated” baseball park hot dog might look (and taste) like? Well, a little while ago, the KC Cattle Company dropped some Wagyu Hot Dogs on us to try out. We’re going to cook a few up and let you know if the upgrade to a premium hot dog is really worth it. Stay tuned for that! 🌭

(c) Even though we didn’t mention it in the article above, you can still get peanuts, popcorn, and Cracker Jack at Ed Smith. Each of the main concession stands carries those items.

(d) Last – It is baseball season. Is there a correct way to order a hot dog at the park? I’m not 100% sure that there is. But the approach below might be the most efficient! 👇

~ LH

📌 ODDS & ENDS

🍕 Over and Out. Doughboy Swift has cooked their last pie. I thought they put out a pretty great pizza. Even though they may not be slingin’ dough at the Merchant Pointe store anymore, that does not mean that interesting things won’t be coming out of that corner space. Right around the bend comes Swift Lounge.

Broc Smith (Masō & Hive Bar) plans on turning the space into a place to relax, have a cocktail or two, and enjoy some creative cuisine. Yes, you’ll still be able to get one of their famous smashburgers and fries. But they’ll also offer some oyster selections, charcuterie, wine pairings, and lots more interesting stuff!

Don’t worry, when things get ready to pop over there, we’ll have details for you. But it is coming really soon!

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🗓️ SARASOTA FOOD INFO🗓️ 

Here is some local food information that we think you might find interesting. We’ve provided you with a link to more info. 

📖 BUY A COPY OF OUR 2026 SARASOTA DINING BOOK! – ORDER HERE 📖 

📋 MENU OF THE MONTH!! – Mirna’s Cuban Cuisine – MENU HERE! 

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🧑‍🌾 FARMER’S MARKET INFO ‍🌾 

EVERY SUNDAY – Siesta Key Farmer’s Market – DETAILS 

EVERY SUNDAY – Farmer’s Market at Lakewood Ranch – DETAILS 

EVERY SUNDAY – The Meadows Farmer’s Market – DETAILS 

EVERY WEDNESDAY – The Phillippi Farmhouse Market (Oct-Apr) – DETAILS 

EVERY THURSDAY – Englewood Farmer’s Market (Oct-May) – DETAILS 

EVERY SATURDAY – Sarasota Farmer’s Market – DETAILS  

EVERY SATURDAY – Downtown Bradenton Public Market – DETAILS 

EVERY SATURDAY – Venice Florida Farmer’s Market – DETAILS 

THIRD THURSDAY EVERY MONTH – UTC Night Market – DETAILS 

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