So I'm a Cardinal fan. I take pride in the fact that I graduated from UofL unlike some UK fans who will go to their grave bleeding blue even though they've never stepped foot on the Wildcat campus. Anyway, I digress. John as in The "Papa John" of Pizza fronted some serious Benjamin's in the building of this place and as stadiums go, well, it's a typical stadium. It is fairly clean (as best as they can manage), and it seems they try and improve this place every year. For instance, in the women's room, they now have official University of Louisville soap dispensers, and they're the automatic type so no germs from the thousands of people who congregate here. I notice these "special touches" Papa and I for one appreciate them. Another improvement is the additional seating that seems to head straight for the cloud section. I'm glad I don't have to climb those towers with the zig-zaging stairwells, especially after having a couple of beers.
Beer, beer, did someone say beer? This stadium DOES sell beer. I recently learned that only 35 of the 120 NCAA Division I schools allow the sale of beer within their sport stadium. (Yes I googled this fact because I couldn't believe it myself when someone told me this nugget of information). When "dry" schools hear about our stadium of barley and hops, maybe we'll get more home games? Cardinal stadium does have a decent selection of suds. The standard American brews are well represented but you can also find a tiny craft beer stand of BBC and Shock Top. Woohoo. If you've been here and haven't found it, keep looking Frodo Baggins because it does exist.
As far as stadium grub goes, it's pretty typical. Brats, hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, and of course Papa John's pizza. New this year is the Mexican cantina, which is a step up from stadium nachos because you can get them with chicken AND....wait for it.....lettuce and tomatoes. Not artificially flavored or processed - it's the real deal. It's served on this crazy innovative plate that has utensils (knife, fork, spoon) built into it. You simply pull them off to use when you want to feel refined and classy while eating your round tortilla chips. They also had something called a "walking taco." I don't know what that is exactly but I like the sound if it. Food that walks with you. I kind of picture it walking beside me holding my hand. *sigh* Anyway, this is a step in a good direction.
There is always more room for improvement in the food department. How about offering more health conscious fare? I know, I know, I'm in the minority here, I mean, who goes to a game for a salad? O.k. how 'bout a sub? I think that is soooo doable. Papa, are you listening?
Stadium- Thumbs up
Food- Thumbs sideways
Beer selection- Thumbs up
Louisville Fans- Thumbs uppity- up read more