WASHINGTON — Do not expect to be limited to the typical hot dog and nachos while enjoying a D.C. United match at Audi Field.
United announced its 10-year partnership with Levy and José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup in March of 2017 to oversee all food and beverage experiences at Audi Field.
“We partnered with ThinkFoodGroup to bring the more upscale food with a fast, casual pace,” Levy executive Chef Adam Carter said. “Out focus here is the speed of service initiative. We know soccer fans want to watch the action on the pitch, and we have two windows of access to get them before kickoff and at halftime.”
United fans worried about the status of the famous RFK Stadium pupusa stand when the partnership was first announced. Fret not, Audi Field has pupusas. In fact, Levy and ThinkFoodGroup worked with the same family-owned business that sold the El Salvadorian treat at RFK Stadium.
“[The Polio family] is going to have three locations here with us at Audi Field,” chef Carter reassured. “Maria’s Pupuseria Factory is the name of their stands that will be located on the 100 and 400 levels. We are going to give the fans what they want, and that is pupusas.”
Although pupusas were not on the menu during Audi Field’s media menu preview, United offered a curated menu showcasing eight of the new treats.
Media Day Tasting Menu
Hongos
Royal Trumpet & Portobello Mushrooms, Salsa Serrano, Cilantro, Heirloom Corn Tortilla
This dish is an interesting take on the classic street taco. I personally prefer my tacos with some type of meat as the main attraction, but the Royal Trumpet and Portobello mushrooms made up for the lack of typical beef or chicken. For those sensitive to spice, the Hongos guacamole has a slight kick to it.
Double Smoked Burger
Local Prime Beef Blend, Smoked Bacon Jam, Smoked Cheddar Cheese, Shredded Lettuce, Tomato, Herb Aioli
My personal favorite, the burger is a unique take on a classic American dish. The bacon jam taste less smoked and more caramelized, but I am far from complaining. The herb aioli is a step up from bland mayonnaise.
Summer Breeze
Fresh Made Dough, Seasoned Ricotta, Caramelized Onion Jam, Sweet MD Corn, Cherry Tomatoes, Micro Basil
The best part about the pizza selection at Audi Field is the hexagonal soccer boxes and rotating selection. The Summer Breeze pizza will only be around for…the summer.
“For me, it is really all about the seasonality,” Carter said. “As a chef, it is all about creativity and the ability to deliver local, fresh ingredients. Starting off in the middle of the summer, what’s better than the Summer Breeze pizza.”
The Chicken Biscuit
Crispy Fried Chicken, Hot Honey BBQ Sauce, Bread & Butter Pickles, Herb Mayo, Black Pepper Biscuit
Imagine your favorite chicken and biscuits. Now imagine that sandwich snack-sized, dreamed up by world-class chefs and served during your favorite soccer match. The ingredients speak for themselves, and I highly recommend NOT picking off the pickles.
Bikini Quatro Quesos
Manchego, Drunken Goat Cheese, Gorgonzola, Quince Paste, Flauta
An interesting blend of cheeses, I can honestly say I have never tasted anything like it. The chefs at ThinkFoodGroup and Levy definitely did not skimp on any of the four cheeses.
Fresh Mozzarella and Heirloom Tomatoes
Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cracked Black Pepper, Basil, Aged Balsamic Glaze
Caprese salad is all about freshness. I appreciated the local and fresh aspect of United’s latest partnership the most in this dish. This is also the dish that will be the most difficult to eat pitch-side.
Gambas Al Ajillo
The very, very famous Tapa of Shrimp sautéed with Garlic
Simple and to the point of a garlic shrimp dish.
Maryland Style Crab Cakes
Tartar Sauce, Zesty Lemon Aioli
Maryland style crab cakes are a local classic. The key to this dish is “Maryland style.” It is not quite drowning in Old Bay seasoning.
United offered a preview of out-of-the-ordinary options at the 20,000-seat soccer-specific stadium. United opens its new home Saturday, July 14 at 8 p.m. against the Vancouver Whitecaps. My first stop will absolutely be to Maria’s Pupuseria Factory.
Find a full guide and map to Audi Field’s food here.