This story originally appeared in the Food print issue, in stands February 2025. It has not been updated and some information may be out of date.
It’s game day — the Huntsman is buzzing, the MUSS is going wild and your stomach is growling — but let’s be honest, stadium food gets a bad rap. However, here at the University of Utah, there are some genuinely tasty options if you know where to look. We’ve explored the concessions, talked to fellow Utes and uncovered the hidden gems — as well as the not-so-hidden delights — that the university has to offer.
The Classics
Some people just want the classic stadium experience, and for that, traditional concessions are often the perfect choice. For a truly classic stadium experience, the “big three” concessions — hot dogs, pretzels and nachos — are readily available. At Rice-Eccles Stadium, you can find these stadium staples outside Portals 38 and 33, as well as at all concession stands within the Huntsman Center.
“For me, it’s gotta be the pretzels,” freshman student Hayden Edwards said. “I feel like they have a lot of good stuff.”
Beyond the classics, both Rice-Eccles Stadium and the Huntsman offer some slightly more adventurous options. Gourmet burgers, tacos, pizza and specialty sandwiches are just a few of the choices available. The boneless wings are a favorite, but be warned — sometimes the execution doesn’t quite live up to the hype. We’ve had some great pulled pork sandwiches, but also some that were disappointingly dry. It’s a gamble, but sometimes you discover a hidden gem. Just be prepared for some hits and misses.
What the Students Want
In recent years, students have voiced a desire for greater variety in stadium concessions, particularly healthier and more diverse options. Suggestions for healthier options ranged from salads to wraps, while others have expressed a craving for sushi.
“They need to find something unique to Utah culture and add that to the stadium,” freshman Jack McMahon said. “That would be a huge win.”
A potential solution could be partnering with local Salt Lake City restaurants. While the presence of J Dawgs at Rice-Eccles Stadium demonstrates the potential for such collaborations, expanding beyond hot dogs and similar fare to include other local favorites would be a significant improvement. And speaking of refreshing drinks, fans would love to see some soda shop options at the stadium, like Fizz or Sodalicious.
Beyond the desire for more diverse offerings, a general consensus among students is that stadium concessions are simply too expensive. The high prices create a barrier for many, particularly those on tight student budgets.
“It’s ridiculous,” McMahon said. “As a college kid, it draws me away from buying.” This sentiment is widely shared, with many students feeling priced out of enjoying the full game-day experience. The cost of food and beverages often forces students to choose between enjoying a meal at the game or saving their money, impacting both the student experience and potentially stadium revenue.
Given that the university exists to serve its students, prioritizing affordability in concessions only seems logical. While parents and other attendees are certainly valued, the core demographic of a university stadium is naturally the student body. Moreover, even parents would likely appreciate lower prices, making the game-day experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Additionally, there are ways to keep game day hunger from hurting your wallet. Hydrate beforehand — stadium drinks are pricey, and lines can be long. Fill up your water bottle before arrival. Beat the rush by hitting concessions early or late, but be ready to miss some of the action.
Wrapping Up
From classic cravings to adventurous eats, navigating stadium concessions can be a game in itself. While the “big three” remain reliable staples, exploring the less conventional options at Rice-Eccles and the Huntsman can lead to some tasty discoveries … though be prepared for occasional inconsistencies. Ultimately, the student voice is clear — Utes crave more variety, healthier choices and most importantly, affordable prices. Partnering with local vendors and incorporating student-friendly pricing strategies would significantly enhance the game-day experience for the entire student body. After all, a well-fed fan is a happy fan, and a happy fan makes for a roaring crowd.
m.valva@dailyutahchronicle.com
The post Column: The Best and Worst Stadium Eats at the University of Utah first appeared on The Daily Utah Chronicle.