Goals, Grub, and Good Vibes: A Day at PayPal Park with the San Jose Earthquakes

There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live soccer match—the chanting fans, the smell of fresh-cut grass, and, if you’re at PayPal Park in San Jose, some of the best stadium eats you’ll find in the country.

We recently descended into the “Wurmhole of Flavor” to see if the food at the home of the San Jose Earthquakes lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: It’s a hat trick of deliciousness.

The Atmosphere: Hello Kitty and Home Goals

We visited on a special “Hello Kitty Day,” and the park was buzzing. PayPal Park is known for having one of the largest outdoor bars in North America, but today, we were focused on the food truck lineup located just behind the stands.

The Main Event: Colombian Comfort Food

After asking around, one name kept coming up: the Colombian Empanadas, Arepas, and Crazy Fries truck. We didn’t hold back and ordered the trifecta.

1. The Crazy Fries

This isn’t your standard side of fries. These are loaded to the brim with savory toppings, sauces, and cheese.

• The Verdict: “These are delicious,” Wurm noted between bites. They are messy, indulgent, and exactly what you want while cheering from the stands.

2. Chicken Empanadas

Golden-brown, crispy, and gluten-free, these empanadas are a fan favorite.

• The Verdict: One bite of the crispy shell and tender chicken filling was enough to crown this a winner. It’s the perfect handheld snack for a fast-paced game.

3. The Arepa

Stuffed with seasoned meat and topped with fresh avocado and jalapeños, the arepa offered a perfect balance of heat and creaminess.

• The Verdict: Even more impressive than the empanadas, the arepa was a standout for its freshness and authentic flavor.

The Experience: More Than Just a Game

The combination of the high-stakes match and the high-quality food made for an unforgettable afternoon. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or just there for the snacks, PayPal Park delivers an elite game-day experience.

Final Thoughts

If you find yourself in San Jose for a match, skip the standard hot dog and head straight for the food trucks. The Colombian fare is worth the trip alone.