The FattenedCaf
Game Day: May 14, 2025
Matchup: STL City SC vs. Sporting KC (2–2 Draw)
Vendor: Fattened Caf
Location: Section 222, Energizer Park
Reviewed Items: 3-Skewer Combo, Longdog (Ube Hotdog)
Overall Theme: Unexpected flavors, smart execution, and a purple bun you’ll never forget.
Why Fattened Caf Was on My Radar
Fattened Caf wasn’t just a vendor name on the stadium map; it was the destination for tonight. Sitting just inside the northwest entrance of Energizer Park and located in an open-air corner where you can still hear the supporters' chants, it has a buzz about it.
We’d heard the lines here usually get long. And rightfully so. Filipino barbecue and comfort food in a soccer stadium? That’s not your typical nacho-and-hotdog stand, and as you know, that is what we are all about! We waited until after kickoff to avoid the rush, and it paid off. Not only were we able to walk up and order without delay, but the staff was friendly, patient, and helpful, especially for those of us not familiar with Filipino cuisine.
On top of that, Fattened Caf goes the extra mile: their griddle was sizzling, their team was temp-checking meats in real time, and the counter had full-size visual examples of every dish they serve. That kind of effort is rare at stadiums, and it immediately raised the bar for what we were about to experience.
Dish #1: 3-Skewer Combo – $24.99
Includes:
Chicken Longganisa Skewer
Pork Belly Skewer
Pork BBQ Skewer
Sinigang Chips
Vinegar dipping sauce and garnish
First Impressions
I’ll be honest, this tray looked like it couldn’t contain all the food. The skewers were thick, meaty, and spilling over the container. This was not a sampler. This was a full, protein-packed trio of Filipino street food classics.
The Flavor Rundown (Flavor Rating: 3/3)
Each skewer had a distinct flavor personality. The Pork BBQ was sweet and caramelized, the Pork Belly was rich with just enough crisp edges, and the Chicken Longganisa? That one stole the show for me. Slightly sweet, mildly garlicky, and oh-so-juicy.
Fattened Caf uses a flat griddle, not just a reheat station. That griddle gave every piece of meat a perfect char: crispy outside, tender inside. It’s the kind of texture that lets you know it was cooked with care, not tossed under a heat lamp. Why Malinche did not use theirs continues to blow my mind.
And don’t sleep on the dipping vinegar. A quick dip transforms the whole experience. It cuts through the richness of the meat and brings a brightness that balances every bite.
Budget Friendliness (2/3)
At $25, it might seem steep, but here's how I break it down:
Two skewers plus chips cost $20. For just $5 more, you get a third skewer, effectively a discount for upgrading. Each skewer was a full serving of meat. The chips were a nice touch, but no more than a side.
One note: I have a slight pork allergy, so getting two pork-based skewers wasn’t ideal. A future upgrade could allow guests to select any three items from the list.
Shareability (2/3)
This meal is designed for sharing, three skewers, three people, right? That’s the idea. But splitting an individual skewer is messier than you’d think. Bring a knife or ask for utensils. I also question why the Longganisa had to be on a stick; it’s better off bun-bound (more on that later).
Still, for a group of three friends? This is a winner, especially when paired with a citrusy drink or beer.
Dish #2: Longdog (Ube Hotdog) – $14.99
Includes:
Chicken Longganisa
Ube Bun
Pickled Papaya
Pickled Onions
Filipino BBQ Sauce
Citrus Mayo
First Impressions
You see it before you taste it. A bright purple bun, yes, that’s the ube. If you’ve never had ube before, it’s a root vegetable with a sweet potato–like texture and a vibrant purple color. Some people might be intimidated by it. Don’t be. This bun isn’t a gimmick. It’s a gateway. Side note: if you ever find an opportunity to have ube cheesecake, don’t pass it up.
Topped high with tangy papaya, sharp pickled onions, creamy citrus mayo, and Filipino-style BBQ sauce, the Longdog is a beast to look at. And trust me, it tastes even better.
Flavor Explosion (Flavor Rating: 3/3)
I expected a weird bun, maybe overpowering pickled toppings. I got the opposite. The ube bun was soft, subtly sweet, and absorbed all the juices like a sponge.
The longganisa sausage was savory and rich, and it held up to the toppings without being overshadowed. The pickled papaya was the real surprise; it was a perfect partner to the sausage, providing a sweet and sour note that danced on the palate.
If you’ve been skeptical of ube or anything pickled, this hot dog might convert you. The balance was brilliant. Every topping had a purpose, and every bite was complete. It's one of the most memorable dishes I've ever had in a stadium.
Budget Friendliness (2/3)
$15 is a lot for a hot dog until you realize this isn’t just a dog. It’s an entire meal that you can hold in your hands. Compared to other gourmet dogs around the park, it holds its ground. Steve’s Hot Dogs has similarly priced hot dogs, albeit they are more traditional. Plus, it’s filling.
Shareability (3/3)
Hot dogs can usually be split pretty easily, and this one is no exception, as long as you have a knife. Because of the toppings, I’d recommend halving it rather than trying to bite-and-pass.
Pro tip: Grab napkins. You’re going to need them.
Atmosphere & Ordering Experience
Fattened Caf is located in one of the better spots at Energizer Park. Nestled just inside the northwest gate, it’s always buzzing before matches. The open-air location lets you hear the match from the counter and even sneak glances at the big screen while waiting.
They’ve optimized the experience with mobile ordering, too. If you’re hungry and don’t want to risk waiting, just place your order in advance and grab it hot off the griddle. They’re also one of the only places I saw actively checking meat temps; a massive plus for stadium food safety.
The visual samples of their food at the counter helped a ton, especially for anyone new to Filipino cuisine. And the staff? Super patient and helpful. Whether you’re a seasoned food explorer or brand-new to these flavors, they’ll guide you without judgment.
Tips & Takeaways
Grab napkins and utensils. These meals are messy, in a good way.
Plan to share? Ask for a knife and an extra tray.
Best time to visit: Right after kickoff. Short lines and a calmer vibe.
Kid friendly? Yes, but no dedicated kids' menu. Still, the meats are mild, and most kids will love the skewers.
Drink pairing: They don’t serve drinks directly, but grab a margarita or citrusy beer nearby for the perfect match.
Brick-and-mortar? Yes! Fattened Caf also operates a full restaurant at 3405 South Jefferson Ave. in St. Louis. We’ll be visiting there soon.
Final Rankings
Skewer Combo: Although priced a little high, the amount of food and flavor helps justify the cost; if only they let you customize the three skewers, it would make it a fantastic deal.
Longdog: If you weren't in the stadium, you wouldn't pay $15 for this hot dog, but considering the flavor and the chance to enjoy it while watching City SC live, it's more than reasonable.
Closing Thoughts: A Purple Bun to Remember
Fattened Caf doesn’t serve the food you expect at a stadium. They serve something special that you have to try at least once. From the sight of sizzling skewers on the grill to the surprise of an ube bun that actually works, every element is thought through. The care, the creativity, and the quality set it apart in a sea of standard stadium fare.
I love going to City SC games because the stadium offers so many exciting opportunities to try food that isn’t usually a top choice of mine. And lately, the food is the best part of going to the games…
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