As Timbers fans got their first taste of sweet victory against Minnesota FC in Portland’s home opener last April, those who chose to venture below deck for food and drink were choking on a bitter new reality: long lines, different offerings and higher prices.
The reason was the debut of the Timbers’ biggest signing from the offseason, $1.5-billion entertainment food vendor Levy Restaurants. A veteran of stadiums and sports arenas all over the country, they came on a 12-year contract to provide concessions and other hospitality at Providence Park.
By many accounts, they weren’t yet fit to take the field that day.