SNY’s Steve Gelbs Critiques Skyline Chili, Preferring Vending Machine Burritos

SNY TV reporter Steve Gelbs made a return to Great American Ball Park for the New York Mets' matchup against the Cincinnati Reds, and he did not hold back on his opinions about the local delicacy, Skyline Chili. After sampling the Skyline Chili cheese coney during the live broadcast, Gelbs remarked, "I'm not trying to be hyperbolic. I'd rather have a vending machine burrito. I'm not kidding."

Reflecting on a previous experience from 2024, Gelbs recalled tasting a vending machine burrito located outside the network's truck at GABP, describing it as "maybe the most vile thing that we have experienced in nearly two decades on the air." His comments underscore a strong disapproval of the chili coney, which has a loyal following in Cincinnati.

Gelbs also expressed his disappointment regarding the food options available at the stadium, stating, "I know everybody's really into the new food offerings here at all the ballparks, but they don't really seem to care about our crew." This sentiment adds to a history of critiques surrounding Skyline Chili, which have resonated with some local food enthusiasts.

In a similar vein, SNY play-by-play announcer Gary Cohen previously voiced his disdain for Skyline Chili during a Mets-Reds game in 2021, urging viewers to "try it once, and then you'll never eat it again." The ongoing conversation about the dish illustrates the divide between local culinary pride and the opinions of visiting commentators.