A guide to the new home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Investors Group Field
Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/134319
GET READY TO PLAY COME HUNGRY FRESH NEW FOOD CHOICES ABOUND BLUE BOMBER FANS WILL HAVE A LOT TO SINK THEIR TEETH INTO when they head to Investors Group Field. In addition to traditional football fare such as hot dogs, hamburgers and popcorn, the new stadium will have about 28 fixed and portable concessions offering a wide variety of choices not usually associated with bleacher dining. Best of all, it will be cooked fresh before hungry fans' eyes. "Every item is prepared fresh and served in the minimum amount of time," said Gerry Ellis, general manager of Ovations Food Services at Investors Group Field. "Whenever possible, we use locally sourced ingredients." On each level, fans will be able to choose from fixed concession stands with footballrelated names such as The Grid Iron, Huddle, First Down and Fresh Classics. Here, they will find items like oversized burgers, chicken tenders, nachos deluxe and offerings unique to Investors Group Field like succulent Bison Burgers as well as hot dog and sausage varieties fresh from Winkler Meats. There will also be a wide variety of thirst quenchers available, from water, soft drinks and juices to alcoholic beverages for adults. For fans of all ages, both soft-serve ice cream and gelato will be offered. The First Down is being touted as Winnipeg's first specialty sausage concession with several types of sausages such as bratwurst, chorizo and many others to choose from. There will also be numerous portable concessions throughout Investors Group Field with food some fans might not be familiar with while, for others, they may be old family favourites. "We are offering fans a lot of variety," said Ellis, "including perogies and kielbasa, shawarma, burritos, carved beef and pulled pork as well as salads, fruit, vegetables, sushi and gluten free options." 'WHENEVER POSSIBLE, WE USE LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS.' For fans who enjoy a tasty cold beverage while watching the game, Ellis said they need not worry their favourite won't be available. "Fresh draught beer will always be cold and ready to go," he said. Fans at Investors Group Field will also be able to indulge in some Manitoba favourites such as Salisbury House Nips, pizza from Pizza Hotline, the official pizza supplier to the Blue Bombers, as well as mini doughnuts at select locations throughout the stadium. Ellis said fan feedback will play a role in determining what items are offered at Investors Group Field. "We will be reinventing every year with new items," he said. "If the fan demand is there, we will listen and we will deliver." 15