New culinary offerings for the season at Paycom Center

Paycom Center, home of the Oklahoma City Thunder, hosted the launch of several new menu items for the 2023-2024 NBA season, including offerings from outstanding partners Empire Slice House, Cup Bop and Freddy’s Frozen Custard. This culinary expansion was not just about satiating the fans' taste buds but aimed at providing a "big league experience," said Dan Mahoney, Thunder vice president of broadcasting and corporate communications.

Mahoney emphasized that these new options are far from typical.

"The food in this arena cannot be called arena food, thanks to Levy Restaurants and our new partners. Our fans are important to us, and so is providing them with that big league experience," said Mahoney.

Empire Slice House, a well-known local New York-style pizza gem celebrating its 10th anniversary, is one of the star partners in this lineup. Founder and Oklahoma-native Rachel Cope takes us on a journey down memory lane, recalling the humble beginnings of Empire’s first location in an old laundromat nestled within the Plaza District. It was here that they crafted pizzas in a tiny space, armed with just a single oven. Fast forward a decade, and Empire Slice House has not only flourished but also expanded its horizons, boasting multiple locations and ovens dedicated to crafting the pies that have won the hearts and taste buds of so many. Cope's enthusiasm for sports and her deep appreciation of the Thunder's impact on Oklahoma City played a significant role in forging this exciting partnership.

“I am such a sports fan and a fan of what the Thunder has done for Oklahoma City, I manifested wanting to be a partner, but I wasn’t sure we could make it happen. They were awesome in helping us figure it all out,” said Cope.

Located in section 115 of Paycom Center, Empire Pizza will be serving up its signature pepperoni and cheese pies, alongside exclusive flavors specially curated for various games throughout the season.

Cup Bop, a rapidly expanding chain with roots dating back to 2013 in Utah, is another standout in the lineup. Their concept revolves around simplifying Korean cuisine, offering a diverse array of dishes to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. With multiple locations in Oklahoma City and Norman, along with a new location set to open in Moore, Cup Bop also extends a warm welcome to gluten-free diners. Their fusion of flavors and accessibility is bound to be a hit among the eager spectators in arena section 102.

Adding to the culinary excitement is another fan favorite, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Known for its classic American fast-food, Freddy’s is famous for its thin, crispy-edged steakburgers, shoestring fries and creamy custard prepared as a concrete, sundae or shake. Freddy’s will set up shop in section 107.

Levy Restaurants, in collaboration with Executive Chef Andrew Murin, has introduced a wide range of menu items in the various food spaces around the arena that promise to elevate the culinary experience at Paycom Center. Chef Murin has been part of the team for an impressive 21 years and shared his passion for putting twists on classic dishes.

"It is different than other arenas I have seen; our goal is to be different," said Murin.

He has a particular fondness for the Mio Dog, and he emphasizes that all barbecue is prepared in-house daily. Fans can also look forward to monthly showcases of new and tantalizing food creations.

The menu boasts an irresistible assortment of dishes, including the Smoked Green Chile Pork Mac & Cheese, Mio Dog, The Cheeta-Long Dog, PB&J Sandwich, Elote Dip with House-Made Tortilla Chips, Cuban Grilled Cheese, Off the Block Baked Potato and Levy's Famous Dessert Cart. The sheer diversity of offerings ensures that every palate is catered to, promising an unforgettable culinary journey throughout the season.

Paycom Center's commitment to providing an exceptional experience, both on and off the court, is brilliantly evident in this remarkable lineup. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these delectable creations and cheer on the Thunder in style at Paycom Center this season.