ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Atlanta Braves opened Truist Park on Tuesday for media day, giving a first look at new food and entertainment offerings ahead of the team’s season opener Friday.
Geoffrey Schmidt, senior director of entertainment and events for the Braves, said the team installed new LED lights designed to create a rock-concert atmosphere.
“We monitor trends on things like social media,” Schmidt said. “What are people following? What are people into? What are people doing?”
The South End Trading Company, named after the Boston Braves’ first home in the 1800s, features a room called “The Vault,” which displays pieces of Braves history. The store also sells World Series dirt in bottles, a surprisingly popular item.
“You would be surprised how many people love dirt,” said Lisa Williams, vice president of retail for the Braves.
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South End Trading Company also offers game-used gear for purchase, something the Braves have sold in the past but say fans often don’t realize is available.
The final — and most popular — stop for media was food tasting. New items include:
- Low Country Crunch: Six jumbo shrimp coated in crispy coconut breading, fried golden and served with chili aioli and a lemon wedge.
- Peach Dingers: Crispy egg rolls filled with cinnamon-spiced peach cobbler and caramel sauce.
- A-Town Melt: A spicy chicken melt with pepper jack fondue on toasted muffaletta bread.
- Blooperito: A deep-fried burrito with chipotle-spiced beef, cotija cheese, pico de gallo and house-made sauce.
- The Bat Flip: A seven-inch brioche stacked with two pounds of beef patties, braised short rib, pork belly, cheese, onions, lettuce, tomato and a fried egg.
The Bat Flip drew the most media attention
“I don’t know how you’re going to eat it, but I challenge you,” said Jaco Dreyer, executive chef at Truist Park.
In addition, the Blue Moon Brewery and Grill at the park collaborated with third baseman Austin Riley on a special beer.
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“This is the first time we’re brewing a beer with an active Braves player,” said Mark Crouch, operations manager for Blue Moon Brewery and Grill.
The Braves will open their season Friday against the Kansas City Royals.
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