
KC Chiefs Team Chef Shares Insights on Travis Kelce’s Road Diet
Chiefs Team Chef, Erin Wishon. Kansas City Chiefs/YouTube
As the Kansas City Chiefs approach the unprecedented feat of winning three consecutive Super Bowl titles, the team’s executive chef has played a crucial role in supporting their success off the field.
In a candid interview with Us Weekly, Chiefs executive chef Erin Wishon shared insights into how she tailors meals to meet each player’s unique tastes and preferences.
“We learn their preferences,” Wishon mentioned, acknowledging her role through Aramark Sports + Entertainment. “We spend time with them three or four times a day, seven days a week for over six months a year. We understand what they like, whether it’s a particular sauce or a brand of vegan burger. We aim to replicate the comforts of home in our meals.”
While traveling, Wishon stated that she and her team strive to incorporate local flavors into their meals for the players, enhancing the experience.
“This variety helps keep meals interesting,” Wishon elaborated. “We don’t want everything to mirror home cooking. However, the more consistent we can be with the favorites, the more successful they tend to be.”
Travis Kelce Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images
Regarding Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, Wishon mentioned his collaboration with Kumar Ferguson, Kelce’s personal chef and longtime friend.
“He’s exceptional,” Wishon praised Ferguson. “He successfully balances healthy, nutritious meals with the occasional indulgence that we often associate with Travis.”
Wishon continued, “I believe people would be surprised to see how focused and serious the players are, even those with larger-than-life personalities. They don’t take their achievements for granted. This is the culture here; it’s simply who we are.”
Another surprising aspect, according to Wishon, is the unusual breakfast preference among some players.
“You might be surprised to learn that steak and rice are popular breakfast choices,” she revealed. “We have a few players who have two 12-ounce filets and rice for breakfast, and sometimes even for lunch.”
Aramark Sports + Entertainment, which employs Wishon, collaborates with eight NFL teams to provide “top-notch culinary experiences utilizing an innovative and data-driven approach to menu development.”
Over the course of the season, Wishon noted that she and her team strive to understand the different regimens the players adhere to in order to find what works best for each of them.
“We have a fantastic dietitian,” she stated. “She’s available to help the players with their individual needs, whether that’s creating specific meal plans to meet their goals. Most of the time, as professional athletes, they’re pretty dedicated and disciplined. When they embrace this culture, it’s all about winning; it’s ingrained in teamwork and success.”
The Chiefs will have the opportunity to demonstrate their dedication when they take on the Eagles on Sunday, February 9, in Super Bowl LIX at 6:30 PM ET on Fox.