December 12 – New York City FC have appointed Legends Global as the official food and beverage operator for Etihad Park, handing one of the sport’s most influential venue partners the keys to a central pillar of the new stadium experience.
Legends will oversee concessions, premium clubs and suites, and all catering operations, working with the club to “showcase of the city’s restaurants, chefs and neighbourhood food traditions”.
The announcement detailed that plans for the concourse include a mix of fixed food stands, portable grills and grab-and-go beverage markets across the north, south and east stands, supported by five full bars and two tap bars pouring New York brews. Premium areas will feature live cooking stations, while the Supporters Porch will carry its own slate of New York-centric offerings.
One of the stadium’s centrepieces will be the Five Boroughs Food Hall in City Square, a hub built around small business vendors representing cuisines from across New York’s five boroughs. Etihad Park intends to make the space a major hospitality draw, giving independent operators a high-profile presence on matchdays and beyond.
“Food is an essential part of New York City’s identity that reflects its diversity and creativity, and we are committed to bringing that spirit to life within Etihad Park,” said Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO. “With Legends Global’s operational expertise and our commitment to showcasing local chefs and restaurants, we’re ensuring that the taste and spirit of New York City are authentically represented in every corner of Etihad Park. We’re looking forward to making some exciting announcements about the incredible chefs and restaurants we’ll be working with over the next 12 months.”
“Partnering with New York City FC, we’re committed to delivering a best-in-class hospitality experience for local fans and guests traveling from around the world to visit Etihad Park,” said Legends Global President of Hospitality Tom Funk. “Our goal is to create a culinary experience that celebrates the city’s incredible food culture – from favorite local restaurants to hidden gems from across the five boroughs. Every matchday and every event will offer fans and guests something new to discover and share together.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at [email protected]