The Luxurious Fare That Makes the Masters Golf Tournament Unforgettable

Explore the vibrant and storied tradition of cuisine at the Masters Golf Tournament concessions. From classic pimento cheese to egg salad sandwiches, discover how these beloved dishes have become an integral part of Masters' heritage.

Each year in April, some of the planet's top golfers converge at Augusta National Golf Club for the esteemed Masters Tournament. However, for individuals like us raised in Augusta, this event transcends being merely a golf competition; it embodies our lifestyle.

I had the good fortune to attend the spring tournaments at Augusta National during my childhood years. Each subsequent year, I make sure to return, enjoying both the exceptional golf matches and the cherished custom of sampling Masters concessions. Every trip back reinforces for me just how integral these culinary offerings have become to the fabric of the event.

Golf enthusiasts flock to the Masters not only for the tournament itself but also for the rich traditions, vibrant ambiance, and delicious cuisine. The event’s concession stands play a key role in this memorable experience, providing classic sandwiches and treats at surprisingly affordable prices that seem reminiscent of a different time. These reasonably priced delicacies serve more than just economic value—they uphold a cherished custom that has stayed largely consistent over many years.

A Custom Based on Simplicity

In the 1930s, when Clifford Roberts, one of the founders of Augusta National, initiated the Masters tournament, he understood that offering accessible and budget-friendly dining choices was crucial for enhancing the spectators' enjoyment. During those initial years, many visitors attended as day-trippers, typically traveling up to four hours from neighboring towns by car. Due to the scarcity of lodging facilities available then, it became vital to provide eating options right at the venue so that guests could dine without having to leave the golf course.

Instead of offering gourmet dishes, Augusta National opted for a straightforward selection of sandwiches, snacks, and beverages, maintaining simplicity in both preparation and expenses. Initially, numerous sandwiches were crafted in the homes of nearby Augusta inhabitants. However, as the event gained popularity, sandwich making shifted to extensive off-site operations, yet the cuisine stayed consistent—meticulously packaged in distinctive green wrapping alongside minimalistic ingredient labels.

As a child visiting the Masters, I recall the concession stands being basic white tents where guests queued up in two lines, collecting their meals from big carts prior to settling the bill at the end. Nowadays, Augusta National features modern green concessions that harmoniously integrate with the landscape, yet the service continues to be equally swift and organized.

What Sets Master Foods Apart?: The Unique Offerings of the Signature Masters Menu

The Masters concession stands serve more than just refreshments; they also maintain a legacy. Among their renowned menu items are:

The Iconic Pimento Cheese Sandwich

The pimento cheese sandwich is widely regarded as the most emblematic dish at the Masters. This smooth, mildly hot cheese mixture nestled between two pieces of tender white bread has emerged as the championship’s most distinctive gastronomic feature.

For more than four decades, Nick Rangos, a caterer from Aiken, South Carolina, provided Augusta National with their signature pimento cheese spread. In 1998 though, the club decided to change suppliers and opted for Wife Saver, a nearby fried chicken franchise, to handle the production instead. This shift did not proceed without hitches; Rangos declined to hand over his proprietary recipe, leaving the new supplier to try replicating it themselves. Ultimately, after deconstructing a frozen version of the initial spread, Mr. Godfrey, who owns Wife Saver, managed to replicate the authentic taste successfully.

Despite this, Augusta National eventually brought pimento cheese production in-house, and numerous long-time enthusiasts, like me, would argue that the present iteration lacks the distinct flavor of the original. Even though it remains tasty, there’s an undeniable nostalgia associated with that traditional Masters pimento cheese that seems unmatched.

Classic Egg Salad Sandwich: An Irresistible Side

Another hallmark at the Masters is the egg salad sandwich, which is both straightforward and delightful. The combination of soft white bread, rich egg salad, and perfectly balanced seasonings makes it a crowd-pleaser. At only $1.50, it continues to be one of the top value-for-money options among sporting event snacks.

By way of additional comment, what I genuinely yearn for during the Masters is the fried egg sandwich. Though it might seem peculiar, there was an inherent perfection in its straightforwardness—a fried egg paired with mustard on tender white bread. This simple delight was among my top choices, and I would be thrilled to witness its return!

BBQ Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Apart from the timeless favorites, the barbecue sandwich has amassed a dedicated fanbase, featuring succulent shredded pork imbued with a mildly smoky taste reminiscent of the South. Another favored choice is the chicken salad sandwich, completing a menu that emphasizes simplicity and heritage rather than intricate preparations.

The ice cream sandwich with Georgia peaches

Compared to the time-honored tradition of these sandwiches, the Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich is a relatively new addition but has swiftly gained popularity among fans. Enclosed within two tender sugar cookies lies creamy peach ice cream, which pays homage to Georgia’s renowned produce. It serves as an ideal refreshment during a sunny day out on the green.

Craft Beer & The Augusta Crow's Nest

For individuals seeking refreshments, Augusta National offers a variety of both local and international beers. This includes the exclusive Crow’s Nest Wheat Ale, which is specially crafted for the event.

This wheat beer, inspired by the lodging of novice golfers above the Augusta National clubhouse, features a citrus flavor akin to Blue Moon. It comes in a distinctive green Masters commemorative cup.

Why Masters Food Is Surprisingly Affordable

During many sporting events, food costs tend to be extremely steep because attendees have limited options; venues often price a beer at around $12 and a hamburger at approximately $15 due to their monopoly over refreshments. However, Augusta National takes a contrasting approach. They deliberately keep concession prices down as part of their strategy, aiming to deliver a top-tier event without excluding those with more modest budgets.

As former chairperson Billy Payne expressed it:

The price of a pimento cheese sandwich matters equally as much as how thick the second slice will be.

The dedication to keeping costs low is uncommon in contemporary sports and adds to the uniqueness of the Masters. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy food throughout the day for approximately $30, which is quite remarkable in today’s athletic events.

The Nostalgia and Experience of Dining at the Masters

For long-time attendees of the Masters, the food isn't merely fuel; it's a treasured aspect of the event. There's a special charm in getting yourself a pimento cheese sandwich, an egg salad sandwich, and a chilled beer, then settling down in a cool area beneath the Georgia pine trees to savor your meal.

I still recall how the Masters' team members used to assist with condiments once guests had departed from the concession stand—another minor yet considerate gesture that sets Augusta National apart. Today, the openness and comprehensive service of these food stalls continue to guarantee swift-moving queues, thanks to the diligent restocking efforts of their personnel.

For those unable to join in person, Augusta National launched Taste of the Masters, enabling fans to have a variety of the championship’s signature dishes delivered right to their homes. This initiative showcases how Augusta National maintains its time-honored customs while also adapting to contemporary conveniences.

A Custom Like No Other

The Masters is renowned for its strict adherence to detail, dedication to maintaining traditions, and reluctance to alter anything merely for the sake of change. This ethos also permeates into the concession stands, featuring iconic items such as sandwiches enclosed in emerald wrapping, frosty beverages served in special edition Masters cups, along with the ever-popular pimento cheese—each element as enduringly classic as the event itself.

Masters Tournament Menu Board

To me, the Masters feels like coming home—a spot where golf lore intersects with an unparalleled feast. Each time I set foot on Augusta National’s grounds, my initial destination is always the concession stands, as no visit to the Masters is truly complete without savoring its legendary sandwiches and experiencing the warm southern welcome.

About the Author

Gina Dickson, hailing from Augusta, Georgia, is both a food writer and a recipe creator with deep roots connected to the Masters Golf Tournament. Since her student years, Gina has never missed an event, closely observing how Augusta National’s renowned concession offerings have transformed over time. Her profound knowledge about the tournament’s legacy and distinctive culinary scene has caught attention through features in platforms like Yahoo Lifestyle and Gastro Obscura, notably including her commentary on debates surrounding the classic pimento cheese sandwich recipe.

As the creator of Intentional Hospitality , Gina excels in crafting Southern-style recipes and providing entertainment advice, guiding readers to host unforgettable events featuring tasty meals that everyone enjoys. Regardless of whether she is formulating copycat versions of Master’s inspired dishes or discussing the connection between cuisine and sporting customs, her enthusiasm for welcoming guests is evident.

To discover additional dishes inspired by Masters, explore Southern cuisine, and get party planning ideas, head over to Intentional Hospitality.