On Monday, Centerplate, the leading hospitality partner to North America’s premier sports entertainment venues,served up an array of specialty menu items during the College Football Playoff National Championship between the Alabama Crimson Tide and Ohio State Buckeyes.
Alabama Crimson Tide and Ohio State Buckeyes faced off on Monday during the College Football Playoff National Championship. Photo courtesy Centerplate.
“Although this year will look different, this is a championship matchup, and we are prepared to provide a championship level of hospitality,” said Centerplate / Sodexo Sports & Leisure North America CEO Steve Pangburn. “We are sourcing from South Florida purveyors and employing nearly 1,000 employees to help boost the regional economy and will help curate the finest fan experience in the safest environment possible.”
The experience featured an online order-ahead food and beverage option via the stadium app, with distinct pickup-only locations in the stadium. There was a limited concessions menu featuring only the most popular items and more pre-packaged offerings from Centerplate's Executive Chef Dayanny de la Cruz, to reduce wait time and crowding on the concourses, so people can return to their seats faster.
Chicken pops were served during the College Football Playoff National Championship. Photo courtesy Centerplate.
“The health and safety of everyone continues to be our top priority for the national championship game,” said Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium Vice Chairman and CEO Tom Garfinkel. “We hope the diligent planning that has gone into making Hard Rock Stadium a safe environment will create an enjoyable experience for all of our guests.”
Among other changes to the food and beverage program:
- Elimination of cash to reduce contact
- Elimination of condiment stands on the concourse
- Elimination of vendors walking up and down aisles
- Gloves and masks required for all food-service employees
- Social distance markings to encourage and promote distancing guidelines in common areas
- Buffet items to be served by both culinarians and private suite attendants
Bill Hancock, Executive Director of the College Football Playoff, added, “We know that everything will adhere to rigorous safety standards, while still providing students and fans a fun and tasty addition to their time at the College Football Playoff National Championship.”
Cubano sausage was served during the College Football Playoff National Championship. Photo courtesy Centerplate.
De la Cruz also conconcted team-inspired, locally authentiic creations that will delight Alabama and Ohio State fans.
Hamburgers were served during the College Football Playoff National Championship. Photo courtesy Centerplate.
