If there is one thing that fans from both Philadelphia and Kansas City can agree on, it’s that food is as essential to Super Bowl Sunday as the game itself. While Villanova students may have had their own team loyalties on game day, the matchup was as much about burnt ends v. cheesesteak egg rolls as it was about Mahomes v. Hurts.
Freshman Ashley Zastrow from Kansas City knows her barbecue. Growing up in the heart of Chiefs kingdom, she has been surrounded by what many call the best barbecue in the country.
“We always have a barbecue for big games,” Zastrow said. “Ribs, burnt ends, pork. Everything. And my mom has a homemade chili recipe she makes for every game. Plus, you can’t forget the buffalo chicken dip.”
Zastrow, who attended a Chiefs game over Thanksgiving from a suite, knows that game day traditions run deep in her hometown, especially with the chance at an unprecedented three-peat on the line.
On the other side of the field, Villanova senior Ellie McLaughlin, a lifelong Eagles fan from Yardley, PA, recalled the highs and lows of recent Super Bowls.
“This brings me back to 2018 when [the Eagles] won their first Super Bowl and two years ago when they lost to the Chiefs,” McLaughlin said. “Our Super Bowl food is just as legendary as the Eagles themselves. Cheesesteak egg rolls, pigs in a blanket, jalapeño poppers, baked brie. It’s the ultimate spread.”
Kansas City is synonymous with barbecue, and no Super Bowl spread in Chiefs kingdom is complete without it. Burnt ends (the crispy, caramelized edges of smoked brisket) are a local delicacy. Ribs slathered in tangy-sweet sauce, slow-smoked pulled pork and classic sides like cornbread and baked beans round out the ultimate game day feast. For a warming dish, many families like the Zastrows turn to homemade chili—a hearty, flavorful staple that pairs perfectly with a cold winter game night. And, of course, buffalo chicken dip remains a must-have at any gathering, regardless of team allegiance.
Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, Super Bowl Sunday is a time to celebrate the city’s signature comfort foods. Cheesesteak egg rolls offer a crunchy, handheld twist on the iconic sandwich, making them a crowd favorite. Another staple is pigs in a blanket, a simple but satisfying bite-sized snack beloved by Eagles fans. For those looking for something indulgent, baked brie provides a creamy, decadent option to balance out the table. And no Philadelphia game day spread is complete without jalapeño poppers, adding a bit of heat to the celebration.
Beyond the specific dishes, the way fans enjoy their food reflects the identity of their cities. Kansas City tailgates are known for their slow-smoked traditions, where barbecue is more than just food. It’s like an art. The sauce preferences alone spark debate, with locals fiercely defending their love for Kansas City-style barbecue’s signature thick, tomato-based sweetness. Meanwhile, Philadelphia’s game-day eats reflect the city’s love for bold flavors and handheld foods, ensuring that fans can snack easily while keeping their eyes locked on the game.
Of course, no Super Bowl feast is complete without the perfect drinks to accompany the meal. In Kansas City, local beers like Boulevard Brewing Company’s Pale Ale and Kansas City Pils are staples at any gathering, for refreshing flavors that pair well with rich barbecue. For those who prefer something stronger, whiskey-based cocktails, such as a classic Old Fashioned made with locally distilled bourbon, make an appearance.
In Philadelphia, beer reigns supreme, with Yuengling being a game-day essential for many Eagles fans. The crisp, amber lager pairs well with the city’s hearty fare. Additionally, classic Philly-style orange crush cocktails (a refreshing mix of vodka, triple sec, fresh orange juice and club soda) are a favorite among fans looking for something citrusy and light amid the indulgent food choices.
While the game may be over and the Lombardi Trophy has found its home, the food traditions of Kansas City and Philadelphia remain undefeated. Whether Villanova students were celebrating a historic win or mourning a tough loss, one thing is for sure: the Super Bowl is just as much about food as it is about football. And for those who didn’t have a vested interest in the outcome, the culinary traditions of both cities make sure that everyone has something to celebrate on Super Bowl Sunday.
