One of the biggest changes has to do with the stadium’s hot dogs — the Dragons have signed a new deal with the New York-based Sahlen Packing Company. Starting this season, Sahlen’s “premium smokehouse hot dogs” will be offered at all concession stands.
Several of the other additions originated at Deck the Diamond, Day Air Ballpark’s holiday event that saw a lot of patrons this winter. Items include corn dogs, apple turnovers, cinnamon rolls and the funnel cake, which hasn’t been available outside of the event for a number of years.
It was “always a fan favorite,” said John McDufford, director of operations for food and beverage at Professional Sports Catering.
Kettle corn, another staple of the holiday event, will be on the menu at the baseball games. Flavors are Oreo, cheddar and caramel. Guests will also be able to purchase orange or green-colored popcorn, inspired by two of the team mascots, Blaze and Heater.
Credit: Bryant Billing
Credit: Bryant Billing
According to McDufford, this popcorn is made at Day Air Ballpark, with staff “cooking it downstairs, and then bringing it out to the stands.”
Last year, the stadium began offering sugar-coated mini donuts. More flavors of the treat have been added for this season, including cookies and cream and pumpkin spice.
The Dragon Fire Grill, where guests can order gourmet burgers, will also have a Hawaiian burger on its menu. Smokie’s Sausage Shack, found in Section 106, will have several new items this year — the chicken Philly sandwich and the ruben bratwurst with thousand island dressing.
A dirty soda stand has also been built at Day Air Ballpark. Originating in Utah, these popular stations allow guests to infuse their sodas with various types of flavored syrups.
Suite dishes
New items have also been added to the stadium’s suite-level menu. One of the featured additions is the sliced tender beef dish, which will be served alongside horseradish, Dijon mustard and slider rolls. Guests will also be able to order apple butter bourbon meatballs and chicken parmesan sandwiches.
Credit: Alex Cutler
Credit: Alex Cutler
Many staples of the stadium’s menu will remain. This includes its partnerships with Ohio-based companies such as Graeter’s Ice Cream and Donatos Pizza. Other returning favorites are the burrito bowls, dippin’ dots, pulled pork and brisket sandwiches, nachos and the footlong brats.
The Mac and Cheese cart, which was introduced in 2024, will also be returning, offering the dish alongside toppings such as buffalo chicken, chopped Cheetos and burnt ends.
MORE INFO
The Dayton Dragons’ first home game is scheduled for April 7 against the Lake County Captains.
Day Air Ballpark is located at 220 N. Patterson Blvd., Dayton. For more information, visit milb.com/dayton.
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