Secor: New Isotopes ballpark bites bring bold flavors

Over the last four years of trying the new concessions for the Albuquerque Isotopes, I have tried a lot of different foods, but this year’s selection has to be my favorite.

Some of the items, particularly The Hogfather Waffle, give you pause when you first hear everything on them, but they are truly a home run. Other items are classics that will bring deliciousness to any game, especially the Strawberry Shortcake.

If none of the new concessions appeal to your palate, Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park is introducing the Bullpen, a food stand that will serve a new dish at each homestand. Isotopes Executive Chef Jim Griego, the mind behind each season’s new foods, said that the Bullpen is meant to add variety.

Without any further fanfare, here are the new hitters in the concession lineup for Albuquerque’s Triple-A franchise. All new concessions will be available at the home opener against the Reno Aces on Tuesday, March 31.

The Farm Team (available at Pecos River near Section 114)

This sandwich is a fantasy lineup of sandwich meats. Loaded with fried chicken, turkey and duck bacon, this turducken-inspired creation rounds all the bases. A spread of brie and raspberry jam offset what would otherwise be an overly meaty dish. A mix of sweet and savory, this will have anyone singing “Take Me Out to the Ballpark.”

The Hogfather Waffle (available at Batter’s Up near Section 116)

This is a dish you cannot refuse. The Hogfather Waffle puts Pigs Candy (burnt pork ends tossed in maple syrup and red pepper) on top of a waffle alongside french fries and chocolate whipped cream. The dish loads all the bases — sweet, savory and spicy. For a little something out there, step right up and try The Hogfather. Be advised, grab many napkins (and I mean many).

Burger Bowl (available at Batters Up near Section 106)

Where other new concessions are curveballs, the Burger Bowl is anything but, offering a surprisingly traditional burger in a bowl (sans the bun). The burger’s grilled patty has a smoky, well-balanced flavor that pairs well with the refreshing lettuce underneath. The bowl offers toppings such as cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, onions, tomatoes and an avocado dressing.

Griego said the dish was added as an option for gluten-free fans or those looking for healthier alternatives.

Hot Diggity Dog Popcorn (available at the Popcorn Cart near Section 103)

A double play of stadium staples, hot dogs and popcorn, this dish says, “Step aside, M&M’s,” and brings a new player up to bat. Popcorn topped with sweet-and-spicy seasoned fried hot dogs sounds weird, but it’s delicious. It’s a combination that delivers sweet, savory and crunchy. Similar to how all the popcorn is gone during the trailers at a movie, I do not see this dish lasting past one inning.

Fiesta Nachos (available at Batters Up near Section 106)

These nachos have been re-signed after making their Nacho Average Wednesday debut during the 2025 season. I am not a fan of nacho cheese or taquitos, but I know people who are, and they would love this dish. It’s nachos with all the toppings — chicken and beef taquitos, queso cheese, guacamole, shredded yellow cheese and pico de gallo. A lineup of all-star favorites, these nachos will require several napkins and probably a fork.

Strawberry Shortcake (available at the Sweet Spot near section 229, Santa Fe trail near Section 112)

One of the most valuable players of this season’s lineup is the Strawberry Shortcake. A pound cake topped with strawberries coated in a strawberry glaze and finished with soft serve and whipped cream, there was no way for this dessert to strike out. Whether you start the game with the dessert or end it after stuffing yourself full of the other new items, Strawberry Shortcake is a classic taste that adds to the joy of watching a baseball game.

Elizabeth Secor covers the arts, music, festivals and food. She can be reached at esecor@abqjournal.com.