5. Cracker jacks 

Cracker Jacks are essentially just popcorn mixed with caramel, but the main reason why they made my list is because of how nostalgic they are. It is mentioned in the famous ballpark song “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” and they have been popular in ballparks for decades. I remember growing up when I went to a ballgame that would always be my family’s go to. Another reason why it made my list is because of its deep connection to baseball, which is my favorite sport. 

4. BBQ 

BBQ is a broad subject, but I am talking about any kind of BBQ. Whether it would be ribs, brisket, pulled pork nachos, sandwiches, etc. Anything BBQ is top tier when it comes to ballpark foods. My personal favorite is a brisket sandwich, and the best I have had comes from Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Arkansas, from Wrights BBQ. I know it can be a little messy sometimes, but the flavor is most definitely worth it. That is why BBQ is in my fourth slot. 

3. Soft Pretzels 

I debated whether or not pretzels or burgers deserved to be on this list, but I think burgers could easily go in the BBQ category, so pretzels it is at. When I think of great ballpark snacks, Pretzels immediately come to mind. They are soft, flavorful and easy to eat. What more do you need? The best pretzel I have had in a ballpark comes from Busch stadium in St. Louis, home of the Cardinals. Also, the only way pretzels can make the list in my opinion is if it comes with a side of nacho cheese, and if they are lightly salted. 

2. Nachos 

In my personal opinion, nachos are overrated. But since they are iconic, they deserve to be included. One great thing about nachos is that they are probably the most versatile food on this list, besides BBQ. You can have any topping you want, some even offer different types of cheese. And they just taste really good. My favorite nachos that I have had also come from Busch Stadium in St. Louis, and it was their pulled pork nachos with BBQ sauce. The only downside is they can get a little bit messy. But other than that, it is a great ballpark food. 

1. Specialty items 

You may have thought hot dogs would be in this slot, but I hate to inform you that hot dogs are terrible and nasty. The real best ballpark food are items that are special to a certain ballpark. From the cheese curds at American Family Field in Milwaukee, to the “Boomstick” at Globe Life Field in Arlington, specialty items are by far the best because of the variety, and the creativeness that you will only find at that specific ballpark. I have only tried one of these items, and it was the “314” sandwich at Busch Stadium, which is a Nashville hot Chicken sandwich on a maple doughnut.