Pacers Brought Back KeyBank Guest Chef Program
The Indiana Pacers have returned the dining initiative to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for its sixth consecutive season.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Dining Out
Live Poll
Should professional sports teams prioritize local small businesses for their stadium dining options?
The KeyBank Guest Chef Program has returned to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis for its sixth year. Eight local chefs will serve signature dishes to fans throughout the upcoming basketball season.
Why it matters
This program provides a platform for small businesses across Indiana to gain visibility while offering unique culinary options at the arena. It connects local talent with fans attending games and special events.
The program is now in its sixth year of operation and features eight local chefs. Fans can find the rotating menu at The Kitchen located on the Main Concourse near Section 17.
The players
Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers are a professional basketball team that plays in the National Basketball Association.
KeyBank
KeyBank is a financial services company that sponsors the guest chef program at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
The details
Attendees at Gainbridge Fieldhouse can access signature dishes from participating chefs, including Anthony Barnett, Brooke Sieg, Bryan Spearman, and Julian Harris. The lineup also features Kai Smith, Monnese Plummer, Theodore Kemp, and Willie James Price II.
Timeline
October 23, 2026 marks the home season opener for the Indiana Pacers.
Culture Shift
The program follows the industry-wide trend of incorporating local culinary talent to enhance the fan experience at major sports venues. It marks a shift away from standardized arena food toward curated, community-focused dining options.
Fans visiting Gainbridge Fieldhouse can expect to find new, rotating menu items from local chefs available at The Kitchen. These offerings provide attendees with unique dining choices that differ from standard stadium concession fare.
The takeaway
Fans should head to Section 17 on the Main Concourse early to sample the rotating chef menus during games. Supporting these local businesses offers a unique way to experience Indiana's culinary scene while enjoying Pacers basketball.
Further reading
For more information on local dining trends, see Indianapolis Dining Out.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 93.1FM WIBC.
Live Poll
Should professional sports teams prioritize local small businesses for their stadium dining options?
