Summer has always felt like a reward after battling through a brutal Michigan winter. Perhaps you’re one of many people who spent the winter months getting into “swimsuit shape.” I certainly applaud anyone putting in the hard work in the gym. However, even the most-dedicated gym rat deserves a fun “cheat day” every now and then. After all, life without any sweet treats or fried goodness isn’t worth living.
Fortunately, if you’re looking to really go wild on your next “cheat day” and are looking for a fun event for the whole family, you should really consider heading to Utica to catch a United States Professional Baseball League (USPBL) game at UWM Field. Not only will you be able to catch a competitive baseball game, but you’ll also be able to treat yourself to some grand slam-caliber ballpark food.
The Most Unique Burger You’ll Ever Have at Ballpark
Similar to Comerica Park, UWM Field has a variety of stands in its concourse. These stands offer an array of traditional ballpark items, but some offer surprising options. The best example of this is available at the Dearborn Brand Polish Grill. This stand features something you likely won’t find at any other ballpark in the area: The Polish Burger.
A new item for this USPBL season, the Polish Burger features a half-pound burger with American cheese. What makes it “Polish” is that it’s topped with sliced kielbasa, two potato and cheese pierogies, and coleslaw. For only $11.99, this massive burger is an absolute steal.
The mastermind behind the Polish Burger is Ron Johnson, the Assistant Director of Food and Beverage at UWM Field. This idea seems like something invented after a wild night, but there truly is a method to the madness.
“When I’m coming up with ideas, I call the [UWM Field] chef and piggyback off him, and we kind of piggyback off each other,” says Johnson. “Once the season starts, we kind of roll into it, and we’re always thinking about new ideas and what we can do for the next season. So, it’s always a year-round process to collaborate.”
Welcome to The Clubhouse
In addition to food and beverage stands in the concourse, UWM Field also has the CURE Auto Insurance Clubhouse, the ballpark’s on-site restaurant. Inside the welcoming space, you’ll be greeted with a menu that’s a mix of traditional items. These items include wings, pretzel bites, and fries. Naturally, there are left-of-center offerings, too. One such offering are Ribbi’s Spinach and Artichoke Potstickers ($14.99): spinach and artichoke dip placed in wonton wrappers and fried to golden perfection. Eight large potstickers come in an order, making it perfect to share.
Another food option you might not typically find at the ballpark is a Shrimp Poboy ($16.99), featuring fried shrimp on a grilled bun with lettuce, tomato, and Remoulade sauce. Simply put, this sandwich is as massive as it is tasty. Served with fries, there’s a good chance you won’t ingest much more after you’re finished.
Of course, if you are still hungry and are in the mood for something sweet, you have to try the Apple Pie Egg Rolls ($8.99). These dessert egg rolls are drizzled with caramel sauce and served with a sizable scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Details on the USPBL
Founded in 2016, the USPBL is an independent baseball league comprised for four teams: the Birmingham-Bloomfield Beavers, the Eastside Diamond Hoppers, the Utica Unicorns, and the Westside Woolly Mammoths. All games are played at UWM Field in Utica.
Similar to the minor baseball leagues, the USPBL has a schedule chock-full of fun promotions and theme nights, like Grateful Dead Night (June 13), Jimmy Buffett Night (June 18), and a special Father’s Day game on June 21. A $25 Father’s Day BBQ Package ticket will get visitors seating in a patio area at the ballpark and access to an all-you-can-eat BBQ spread featuring pulled pork, hot dogs, baked beans, cole slaw, cookies, and unlimited soft drinks and water.
To learn more about upcoming USPBL games, visit uspbl.com.
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