Citi Field’s Executive Chef Jason Eksterowicz: Leading the Culinary Charge
Aramark | October 18, 2024
In the bustling heart of New York City, Citi Field is not just a landmark for baseball fans but also a beacon of culinary excellence, thanks to the innovative leadership of Senior Executive Chef Jason Eksterowicz.
Chef Eksterowicz started his career with Aramark Sports + Entertainment in 2017 as the Assistant Executive Chef overseeing culinary operations at Citi Field. He managed a diverse team of 500 culinary staff, including cooks and Chefs de Cuisine. Known for his creative flair and dedication to elevating stadium cuisine, Chef Eksterowicz has transformed Citi Field into a culinary dynasty, attracting food enthusiasts from all over, and elevating Citi Field to the number one spot on the list of 2023 Best Stadium Food and 2024 Best Stadium Food, according to USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice and USA.
The start of the fall season has been busy for Chef Eksterowicz, to say the least. Not only are the Mets on a historic playoff tear as they set their sights on a World Series championship ring, but Chef Eksterowicz has also overseen an immersive dining experience in partnership with James Beard. On top of that, he’s involved in a short film that is up for an Emmy. Where does he find the time?!
Citi Field recently hosted the prestigious James Beard Foundation Stadium Chef Series dinner on September 27. This dining experience benefits the James Beard Foundation and builds awareness and education of the foundation’s Good Food for Good mission to celebrate, support, and elevate the people behind America’s food culture. At the helm of this culinary extravaganza was Chef Eksterowicz, who spearheaded the culinary process for this event, which featured eight prominent celebrity chefs, among them Anne Burrell, Pat LaFrieda, and Markus Glocker, to name a few. The dinner was a gastronomic delight, showcasing the best of culinary talent and creativity. ChefEksterowicz himself curated the fourth course, Tournedos Rossini, featuring Pat LaFrieda prime dry-aged ribeye with micro vegetables, forest mushrooms, celeriac puree, and foie gras emulsion.
Citi Field has taken part in the NYC Food & Wine Fest Burger Bash twice, with Chef Eksterowicz clinching victory both times, including last year. This makes Citi Field the only stadium to not only compete but also win in this prestigious event. The team secured first place with their delectable Mets Championship Burger, which boasts a dry-aged beef patty topped with Maine lobster salad and lobster fondue.
Additionally, Spectrum News 1 recently featured Chef Eksterowicz in a story that has garnered significant attention. The story and accompanying video have been nominated for a New York Daytime Emmy, with the award announcement set for October 26.
As Citi Field continues to shine under Chef Eksterowicz’s leadership, these upcoming events and recognitions underscore his exceptional talent and the vibrant culinary scene he is cultivating.
Whether it’s through hosting prestigious dinners, winning competitive cook-offs, or being celebrated in the media, Chef Eksterowicz is undoubtedly elevating the world of stadium eats.
