We’ve all experienced the bigger-is-better food mentality at sporting events — the single-slice of pizza that’s as big as a standard pie, the foot-long cheesesteak that doubles as a heart attack on a plate and the gluttonous desserts that George Constanza discovered can land you on the big screen.
So, when the Prudential Center/Devils/Levy Restaurants did an extensive survey of their season-ticket holders on food options after last season, they were a bit surprised by some of the key takeaways:
- Healthier options (think grilled not fried chicken sandwich);
- Vegan and gluten-free selections (and items that take food allergies into consideration);
- Smaller portions (how about kids-specific sizes that don’t break your bank);
- Jersey flavor (let’s celebrate the cultural cuisine of the state).
It led to a fun summer of testing.
So said executive chef Aron Zaks.
“We had weeks of meetings going over the results and then working to bring in the type of options fans wanted,” he said. “From just adding a grilled chicken sandwich to increased items on our healthy cart sponsored by RWJBarnabas Health, we think we’ve done that. We’re excited to see how the fans react.”
Three-stars selections
Unofficial rankings from four guys who like to eat:
- Third star: Dipped Rice Crispy Treat
- Second star: Empanadas
- First star: Ranch House Burger
Dana Seiden, the SVP of business operations for the team and the arena, agreed.
“I think the big takeaway for the new year is how much we take fan feedback to heart,” she said. “We have an increased variety of options for the wide array of people that come through this building — everyone from our season-ticket holders to families on a big night out, to CEOs hosting special clients.
“Our goal was to make sure we support everyone and to keep it Jersey — because we’re all from here and we want to celebrate that.”
The Devils home opener is Oct. 16. Here’s a look at some of the new food options for this season:
Healthy Cart by RWJBarnabas Health
These can be found at certain locations around the arena.
There are a variety of wraps (Chicken Caesar, Southwest Veggie and Grilled Veggie & Hummus) and two salads (Garden and Chicken Caesar) all of which are served in sealed packages.
And before you start thinking, ‘That means it was prepared a week ago,’ think again.
Sarah Forster, a VP of hospitality strategy at Levy Restaurants / Prudential Center, explained that’s by design. Items are prepared daily.
“We want our customers, especially those with food allergies, to have confidence that the items were prepared individually, eliminating the chances of cross-contamination with items they need to avoid,” she said.
Jersey flavor
Jersey-themed items can be found at certain stands around the arena — and on some heritage nights.
It starts with Pulled Pork Nachos: Tortilla chips not only smothered in gooey cheese sauce, fresh salsa, diced onions, tangy pickled jalapeños and a sprinkle of cilantro – but also pulled pork. (Offered in Section 4)
The pulled pork comes from Mighty Quinn’s in Clifton, a place many fans already are familiar with.
“We take their great product and add our twist to it,” Zaks said.
That same pulled pork comes on a new sandwich, too.
Seiden also pointed out the rotational items that can be found during heritage nights, when the arena brings in local establishments and offers them a chance to serve their unique cuisines for a night.
“We always want to support local businesses,” she said. “These nights speak to our desire to always be increasing options. And, if a certain option on a certain night does really well, we can work to add it our rotation.”
Of course, the arena likes to sample from big Jersey businesses, too – like Campbell’s.
That’s how the Bacon Jam Grilled Cheese came to be.
It’s a triple-cheese melt of American, provolone, and sharp white cheddar layered with a house-made cherry pepper bacon jam, pressed on thick-cut Texas toast, and served with a side of Campbell’s tomato bisque. (Offered in Sections 1, 118 and 126)
There is a kid’s option, too. Just bread and cheese (up to them if they eat the crust, but don’t count on it).
And since the Prudential Center is steps away from the Ironbound, there has to be an empanada option.
There is — the one we sampled came with great flavor and a terrific dipping sauce.
And then there’s
Don’t worry, the Pru Center didn’t forget about those of who want to let loose on a big night out.
The arena is bringing back the Ranch House Burger, which it introduced halfway through last season. It’s two patties, smothered in white cheddar with a barbecue bacon ranch jam throughout.
Then there are garlic knots, which appear to be as big as a sandwich, and come with a house-made marinara sauce for dipping. (Offered in Sections 4, 16 and 130)
As for dessert, how about a Rice Crispy Treat that is dipped in chocolate (in front of you) then rolled in your choice of toppings: M&M’s, Oreos, pretzels or sprinkles. (Offered in Section 2).
All this from a group that already has been noted for greatness. The Devils and Prudential Center, in conjunction with Levy, won the 2025 Stanley Award for venue business initiatives for the Pier Club and Eastback Kitchen.
Zaks said the team was determined to top itself.
“We spent the offseason listening, tasting, and testing to create a menu of new additions that are Jersey through and through,” he said. “Being recognized with the NHL’s Stanley Award last season was an incredible honor, and we’re excited to build on that momentum with another year of Devils hockey, great food, and unmatched hospitality at The Rock.”
Seiden agreed.
“Our goal is to raise our food and beverage game every season, and our fans’ input was essential in shaping what’s new this year,” she said. “From new ‘Jersey’ themed offerings, upgraded kid’s meals, healthy options, and enhanced fan favorites, we’re making sure there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy on gameday.”
