One of the landmarks in Orange County is Knott’s Berry Farm. Everyone in the OC loves Knott’s, and your first visit to Knott’s is a right of passage for any new resident. Whether you’re going for Knott’s Scary Farm at Halloween or to Knott’s Soak City in the summer time, every OC local knows that Knott’s is an OC institution that’s focused on fun. So you can imagine my excitement when Knott’s invited Erika and I to a special preview event for their new menu. That’s right — beloved Knott’s has revamped its entire food menu across the park, and rolled out some delicious new treats. We had an evening to sample them all, from the perfectly-prepared Ahi to a cookiewich sandwich that was so good Erika had to take it away from me, literally. If you haven’t been to Knott’s in a while, and are wondering what they’re up to, wonder no more. There’s a whole lotta cookin’ going on at Knott’s, and whether you’re looking for a great burger or something a little fancier, head on over to Knott’s and try out their brand new menu. You won’t be disappointed.
What? Knott’s Berry Farm New Menu
What’s Chic? Exceptionally tasty food from appetizers, to main courses, to deserts I didn’t taste a single item that wasn’t a home run.
What’s Weak? As a diabetic I’m reduced to simply dreaming about those cookiewiches!
The New Knott’s Menu
What impressed me most about the Taste of Knott’s event was the sheer magnitude of the menu changes. The Knott’s team didn’t just roll out a handful of new items, they’ve redone nearly every menu and every menu item in the park. And there was too much for even Erika and I to try it all. Even with the wide variety of food, one thing was consistent, the quality. It was hands down the best food I’ve ever had at an amusement park. And while it was all delicious, here are a few of my personal favorites:
Coasters Cheeseburger
This thing was a serious hamburger. 100% fresh ground beef with spicy jalepeno chips and a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, this is a burger-lover’s burger. It was so good that even though we were there just for a taste, I managed to eat the whole thing. I will come back to Knott’s just for this burger.
Hawaiian Ahi Poke
After the burger, I took it 180 degrees and went for the Ahi Poke. I love fresh ahi, and the Sashimi grade tuna, green onions, avocado, sesame vinaigrette and wasabe cream served on a toasted wonton hit the spot. Before Knott’s I never thought of eating a delicacy like ahi at an amusement park, but it’s a great appetizer and a delicious treat if you’re looking for a more refined dining experience.
Hollywood Hits Meatball Sandwich
I saw this on someone’s plate when we first arrived and I made it my mission to track it down. It did not disappoint. I couldn’t wait to take a bite – at the expense of my arty food shot. This meatball sandwich is the real deal, with a big, savory meatball in marinara sauce served on a crispy baguette. I ended up eating mine and Erika’s – it was that good.
Flank Steak Sandwich from Fireman’s Brigade BBQ
This flank steak sandwich was another home run. Can you tell I went a little overboard at this point? The steak is flavorful and juicy and really just melts in your mouth. It’s cooked perfectly, and isn’t overdone. The steak is served on a warm roll and dressed to perfection. This is a full-flavored steak sandwich. You really have to try it to believe how good it is.
Fully Loaded Funnel Cake
After I ate my way through most of the menu, Erika and I turned our sights on dessert. First up was the Fully Loaded Funnel Cake. It’s as sinful as it sounds. A funnel cake, topped with soft serve ice cream and fruit topping (we chose strawberry). It’s decadent and delicious. A perfect treat for Knott’s. My pancreas still hasn’t forgiven me for enjoying this confection. It’s a must try!
Cookiewich
Cold vanilla soft serve ice cream served between two giant, warm chocolate chip cookies. There really isn’t anything more that needs to be said.
The Verdict
If you couldn’t tell, I was pretty blown away by the food. It was very impressive across the board. Erika and I both agreed that it was easily the best food we’ve ever had at an amusement park, and we were both very impressed with the Knott’s team for both the selection and the quality. We highly recommend eating your way through Knott’s any time. (But, if you do, hit the rides first!)
Bonus, the locals are friendly!
If you want to learn a bit more about the menu changes and see some behind the scenes check out this video from the OC Register below. You’ll see me getting up for seconds! Bon Appétit!
Disclosure: Our thanks to Knott’s for having us out to sample the food. They were gracious hosts. All opinions are 100% my own.
The cheeseburger looks amazing :-)
I would be blown away from all this food just like you! ;-)