Akron RubberDucks to celebrate Barberton fried chicken with special night
The Akron RubberDucks give a cluck.
The AA ballclub will rebrand on June 21 to Barberton Fried Chicken and Hot Rice to celebrate two of the city’s top delicacies as part of the team’s “Only in Akron” series.
The game honors the dish made famous by Serbian immigrants Mike and Smilka Topalsky, who began serving the dish that remains a staple of Belgrade Gardens restaurant. It spawned several imitators over the years in Barberton.
Related reading: Barberton chicken in spotlight on PBS' new 'Roadfood'
“Fried chicken and hot rice have made Barberton the Fried Chicken Capital of the World,” RubberDucks President and General Manager Jim Pfander said. “Generations of Akronites have celebrated special moments around this dish, and people have flocked from around the world to Barberton to try this delicious, unique take on fried chicken. We can’t wait to celebrate this special dish and all things Barberton on June 21.”
Fans can take part in the celebration with the “Fried Chicken and Hot Rice” ticket package and receive a game ticket, as well as an adjustable hat. Packages are limited.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron RubberDucks get new name honoring Barberton fried chicken
