When you think of Masters cuisine, you probably picture those legendary cheap eats: the $1.50 pimento cheese sandwich, the $3 beer, the iconic peach ice cream sandwich. But for Kansas City Chiefs superstar Travis Kelce, the real culinary highlight at Augusta National is something most fans will never taste.
During a recent episode of the "New Heights" podcast with his brother Jason, Kelce dished on his experience at the iconic golf tournament. While recapping the week, he revealed a surprisingly upscale favorite. "I'm gonna be bougie and say there's a fried chicken in the Berckmans Place that is to die for," Kelce declared, leaving the affordable concession stands in the dust.
The Ultimate VIP Experience
So, what is Berckmans Place? It's not just another food tent. This 90,000-square-foot hospitality venue is the pinnacle of exclusivity at The Masters, often called the "gold standard" for premium experiences. Opened in 2013, it's a world away from the public grounds, offering high-end food and drink to a select few.
Access doesn't come cheap. According to industry reports, badges for Berckmans Place have cost around $6,000 and have resold for as much as $17,000. That price tag includes all food, premium beverages, and gratuity, meaning Kelce's "to die for" fried chicken was part of an all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious package.
A Tale of Two Menus
The revelation highlights the fascinating duality of The Masters. For the everyday fan, it's a bastion of reasonable prices in the world of expensive sporting events, a tradition proudly maintained by Augusta National. Yet, behind the scenes, a parallel universe of luxury exists for corporate partners, celebrities, and other VIPs.
This isn't the first time the tournament's dual identity has sparked conversation. The stark contrast between the public concessions and private offerings often draws attention, much like the recent food price showdown that compared Masters fare to other major events.
Kelce's admission also came with a culinary confession. The tight end told his brother he used to "love" egg salad sandwiches—a Masters staple—but can no longer eat them after learning how they're made. It seems his palate has fully ascended to the VIP level.
More Than Just a Spectator
Kelce attended The Masters as a spectator, soaking in the atmosphere while his brother Jason was on assignment for ESPN covering the Par 3 Contest. The Kelce brothers' foray into the golf world continues to blend sports entertainment, showing how athletes from other arenas are drawn to Augusta's magic.
The tournament itself remains a massive draw, consistently pulling in huge audiences. In fact, this year's event shattered a 13-year TV ratings record, proving its enduring appeal even amid discussions about broadcast quality.
So, while thousands of fans happily munch on their affordable sandwiches and sip their reasonably priced beers, Travis Kelce will be savoring a memory—and a piece of fried chicken—that money can't buy for just anyone. It's a delicious reminder that even at The Masters, some experiences are reserved for the inner circle.
