As football fans prepared to watch the many opening day games this weekend, one common question was asked in every household. What are we going to eat? The Food Network compiled a list of the fan-favorite foods in Florida. In other words, what is the food that most perfectly pairs with football games?
In this feature, many local elements were considered when selecting the football food for each market across the country. Food (and beverage) is a universal must-have that can unite fans of various teams, even when they square off against each other. For example, a large tray of overloaded nachos would be served for all gathered around the TV to share, regardless of which team they are rooting for. Perhaps you were at the bar or get-together for the Buccaneers, Jaguars, or Dolphins game. Was the platter of chicken wings served to fans of only your team (though that's not a bad idea)?
The food choice enhances your gameday experience. It adds to the excitement and anticipation of those four hours each week when you sit and watch the big game.
Here, the Food Network recognized that. They also took into account the local flavors of your home state. When you put that together, the result is a fan-favorite football food with a hometown flavor. It's as unique to your market as the logo on your team's helmet.
What is the fan-favorite football food in Florida? Well, there are three of them.
Lechon Asado, Fried Shrimp, Fish Sandwich
Depending upon the Sunshine State team of our choice, the fan-favorite food varies here. According to Food Network, Tampa Bay Bucs fans gravitate towards shredded pork. Jaguars fans are on the opposite end of the spectrum with fried shrimp. Lastly, in Miami, the fan-favorite food for the Dolphin fan-base is the fish sandwich.
Regardless of the food choice you indulged in for week one, Florida NFL football fans may want to consider ordering the same menu next week. The state went 3-0 with all three teams winning their opening game.
Two Florida Restaurants Named Among The Best For French Fries
Do you want fries with that? Tasting Table recently published a list of restaurants with the best French Fries in the country and two New Florida establishments were named.
"From high-end steakhouses and neighborhood brasseries' to fast food restaurants and even grocery store freezer aisles, fried spuds can be found in just about every type of restaurant or shop across the country," Tasting Table explains. Their feature is specific to non-fast food restaurants.
French Fries are always a fan-favorite whether a side dish, an appetizer, or just a snack. They come in all shapes and sizes. Shoe strings crispy versions, thick-cut steak fries, seasoned curly fries, waffle fries, and even tater tots (are those considered fries, though?).
French Fry Fun Facts
In a 2019 story published by the Daily Meal, they discussed unique facts on French Fries in America. Two of the most fascinating have to do with McDonald's. "Approximately 7 percent of the potatoes grown in the U.S. meet the same fate: they become McDonald's french fries," they said. They later stated that this fast food chain sells one-third of the French Fries consumed in the United States.
French Fries are like music. They are a common bond, and they are subjective. What one person prefers may be completely different from another. Better yet, both choices are correct.
For example, Best Things Florida released their list of best French Fries in the Sunshine State. It is completely different from Tasting Table's. However, Tasting Table went and explored all corners of the country to crown their French Fry kings.
The two restaurants in Florida that were recognized for having some of the best French Fries in the country serve two very different styles. One of them is part of a restaurant that has expanded to other markets. The other is served in a restaurant where fries compliment BBQ.
Broken Shaker - Miami
Located on 2727 Indian Creek Dr. in Miami Beach, Broken Shaker has fries that are so good, they even get their own line item on the menu. These are Shawarma Fries, served with Harissa ketchup. You can order them on their own or have the fries paired with any of their burgers or sandwiches. Although Broken Shaker does also have restaurants in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Madrid, their menus show a some different takes on their hand-cut fries in certain markets. For example, Los Angeles has Carne Asada fries. New York and Miami both have the Shawarma recipe.
The Polite Pig
"In terms of meaty all-American food pairings, french fries go just as well with barbecue as they do with burgers," Tasting Table exclaims. The Polite Pig is located in Disney Springs. They describe their menu by saying, "Our menu is inspired by the best seasonal food that Florida has to offer, bringing new twists to local flavors and BBQ." They serve waffle fries with a polite rub. They can be selected as a side to any dish or in a giant platter to accompany your catering order. In addition, sweet potato tots are on the menu as well.
