Food and Drink at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Will Actually Be Affordable

Stadium dining in America is notoriously expensive, with overpriced, low-quality selections often being the rule because fans have no other choices. It appears Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the forthcoming home of Atlanta United FC and the Atlanta Falcons, may offer an exception to that rule. Responding to feedback from fans, the stadium's concessions partner is planning to showcase prices "that are amongst the lowest in professional sports."

With the stadium still under construction Downtown and an opening targeted for next June, complete details on the food and beverage options aren't yet available. But, a few specific price points were announced on Monday.

• $2 - Non-alcoholic beverages with unlimited free refills at freestanding refill stations
• $2 - Dasani bottled water, hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn
• $3 - Peanuts, pizza, nachos, waffle fries
• $5 - 12 ounce domestic beer

Yes, those numbers are correct. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is taking the novel approach of not gouging fans for a light beer, bottled water, or hot dog. And the idea of offering free refills on soft drinks is almost unfathomable.

"We focused from the beginning on building a unique fan experience at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with a goal of helping those who visit to leave the stadium with great memories shared with family and friends, not aggravation and frustration about their experience," Falcons and Atlanta United owner Arthur Blank said in a prepared statement. "We have listened to the concerns of the fans on the food and beverage experience and have responded to those concerns in a way that honors our commitment to providing the best possible fan experience at our events."

The price levels are much closer to those a fan might find at a minor league baseball park as opposed to an NFL venue, especially one that's just opening. Concessions partner AMB Sports & Entertainment is touting deals so good, a family of four can dine for less than $30. But for those who are willing to spend a few more bucks, the stadium will feature "a variety of premium items including higher-end food options, draft beers, and mixed drinks" from local and national partners. While these selections will be more expensive, they'll be available "at the same prices as you will find in their restaurants."

"To truly reimagine the food and beverage experience, we needed to first and foremost offer fans the best value possible," Mike Gomes, Mercedes-Benz Stadium senior vice president of fan experience, said. "Value starts with pricing but also includes improved quality and freshness, a variety of options that can appeal to all fans and the best speed of service — all of which we have delivered on through Mercedes-Benz Stadium's innovative approach to the food and beverage program."