New Jersey Devils Introduce Iconic Breakfast Option Amidst Food Debate

The New Jersey Devils have delighted their fans by announcing a new addition to the menu for the 2024-25 season. This development is set to provide an upgraded menu suited for concession stands and premium clubs and suites throughout the Prudential Center. As part of these upgrades, fans will now be able to enjoy a quintessential New Jersey breakfast staple during games.

The Devils revealed this week that Taylor ham, egg, and cheese sandwiches, a popular regional delicacy, will be available at the “Downtown Diner” stands located near Sections 1 and 118 of the arena. This sandwich had previously been offered on a limited basis in past seasons but will now be a permanent feature at every game.

This decision places the Devils at the center of an ongoing food debate in New Jersey. Known to many as Taylor Ham in North Jersey and as Pork Roll in other parts of the state, this processed meat product was originally created by John Taylor in 1856, initially marketed as “Taylor’s Prepared Ham.” Following the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, the product was renamed “Taylor Pork Roll” to comply with new definitions of “ham.”

The Taylor Provisions Company, which produces this well-loved meat, still labels it “Taylor Pork Roll,” yet the name “Taylor Ham” persists especially in North Jersey, where the Devils’ home games are played. The debate over the proper name is emblematic of regional identities and cultural nuances within New Jersey.

At the Devils’ official arena cuisine tasting event, the item was listed as “Taylor Ham, Egg and Cheese Sandwich” on the menu, though its description read, “Made from scratch shaved pork roll, fried egg, American cheese on a freshly baked Kaiser roll.” This nuanced naming strategy reflects an attempt to cater to both sides of this deeply ingrained culinary debate.

Only time will tell if this culinary decision will satisfy the preferences of those with strong regional loyalties, or if the spirited “Taylor Ham” versus “Pork Roll” debate will continue to stir as much passion as the rivalry between Devils fans and their counterparts from the New York Rangers.

Regardless of the debate, one consensus might be reached: the breakfast option is likely to be a hit among fans at the Prudential Center, adding a unique twist to the typical hockey game fare of hot dogs, popcorn, and beer.