A unique dining experience greeted visitors to the Bryce Jordan Center Wednesday. Everyone got the “rock star” treatment, and a chance to treat themselves to a delicious backstage dining experience. The folks at Bryce Jordan Center Catering put on a show, whipping up some very special menu items.

In addition to barbecue staples like hot dogs, burgers and a variety of salads, attendees of the “Backstage BBQ” were able to enjoy dishes requested by artists who performed at the BJC this past year.

“They always put on a nice barbeque,” said Corry Bullock, who raved about the Bon Jovi crab cakes. “I wish they put this on all-year-round.”

The State College resident has been attending these events for the past couple years. Bullock usually works right through lunch, but said she always finds time for the all-you-can eat barbecues, which cost $10.

“It’s a great deal,” she said.

There were fresh berries, which were requested by the Boss in November; Zac Brown Band’s famous Whisky BBQ Chicken Legs and, along with the crab cakes, roasted corn and tilapia from Bon Jovi’s visit.

“A month ago, we sat down and tried to think of something different,” Brandon Girts, concession manager of the Bryce Jordan Center said about the concept. However, Girts said that some of the other themes are more popular because they are recurring events from past years.

Bullock’s favorite is the carnival barbecue, which features gyros, walking tacos and a cotton candy machine. Then there’s the extremely popular “Philly vs. Pittsburgh” barbecue where diners show off their hometown pride and eat native dishes like Philly cheesesteaks and Primanti Brothers style sandwiches from the Steel City.

On average, each event draws 250 to 500 diners.

The barbecues take place every other Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside of Gate B through August 7.

“It’s a good idea,” said Jim Hemcher, who was one of the first people in line at the event. “Everybody’s happy. Plus, it’s all-you-can eat. There’s nothing at fault there.”

Here’s a list of the remaining summer barbeques:

• Wednesday, June 12 – Carnival
• Wednesday, June 26 – Philly vs. Pittsburgh
• Wednesday, July 10 – Mediterranean Tapas
• Wednesday, July 24 – Seafood
• Wednesday, August 7 – Big Ten

Click HERE for more information including details on upcoming menus.