MSG To Debut New Concession Offerings With Phase One Renovation

When Madison Square Garden opens its doors Oct. 22 after the first of three summer renovation shutdowns, fans “will be presented not only with the replacement of more than half its seats but also a transformation in its culinary philosophy,” according to Glenn Collins of the N.Y. TIMES. Sausage Boss by Andrew Carmellini is “one of four new concessions that high-end restaurateurs have created to serve mainstream food at the 43-year-old arena.” Jean-Georges Vongerichten will “offer Simply Chicken, Drew Nieporent will serve up burgers at Daily Burger and Jeremy Marshall of Aquagrill will open Lobster and Shrimp Roll.” Also coming will be “pastrami, corned beef and knishes from the Carnegie Deli; chopped brisket -- and hand-carved prime rib -- sandwiches from Hill Country; kosher food from Carlos & Gabby’s; a gluten-free concession; and desserts from Magnolia Bakery.” MSG President & CEO Hank Ratner “promises 50 percent more concessions by the end of the multiyear arena revamping in 2013.” Vongerichten said that he “will also be doing a menu for the Garden suites -- ‘six or seven dishes from Spice Market, ABC and others.’” MSG customers “will find two dozen high-end food outlets over 10 floors of the cavernous bowl with its 19,763 basketball seats.” The company would not disclose the new food prices, but “some concessionaires have advocated holding the line at about $10 for the fanciest sandwiches and burgers” (N.Y. TIMES, 9/21).