Life At Levy

There’s something special about the start of baseball season: hot dogs, Cracker Jack, cold beer and… donuts?

In March, we launched our “It’s a Donut” campaign: baseball-shaped donuts served across our ballparks in fun display boxes with customizable flavors. In Baltimore, Senior Executive Chef Dan Doyle of Oriole Park at Camden Yards joined second year Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday in a special social video to promote the new can’t-miss item. Chef Dan shared what this experience left him with — an incredible memory to look back on, a stronger connection with Orioles fans and a new motivation to find what’s next.

How do you think creating a guest-facing platform for chefs inspires culinary expertise?

DD: Levy is known as an industry leader for prioritizing the creativity of its chefs and this facilitates an environment that goes beyond “back of house” work. One of the Levy differences I love the most is taking an active approach in showcasing our culinary creations to fans through unique menu items, experiences and now collaborations with professional athletes. These efforts really drive a chef to take ownership and highlight the amount of pride we take in our craft.

Why is it important for fans to see who’s behind their favorite ballpark foods?

DD: The fans are the reason we are here! Having our chefs connect with the fans creates a more human element to the food we present and curates a connection that is often hard to capture when dealing with thousands of guests every day. Our relationship with the fans is like no other. Food, in my opinion, is just as important as the game itself and with this light on the chefs we can truly elevate the experiences for our guests. Come for the game, stay for the food.

What was it like to be part of a video shoot with one of baseball’s brightest young stars?

DD: Short answer? It was a blast. Jackson brought an excitement to our food story that goes beyond what I have been used to in my career. There is an energy there that is dynamic and inspiring. It was truly a humbling experience.

What are you going to remember the most from this experience?

DD: Projects like these drive innovation and now, more than ever, I want to continue to find new ways to elevate our fan experiences. Leaving the field that day left me wondering ‘what is next’? Also, it was just thrilling to be standing next to a batting cage while Jackson was crushing some hits (and donuts).