Arguably, the hottest dietary trend right now is eating as much protein as possible, and for good reason.

Higher protein intake has been shown to support muscle growth, cognitive function, and blood sugar regulation. Consuming up to one gram of protein per pound of body weight daily yields the most benefits, but when confined by the hearty Bryce Jordan Center concourse menu, that task can be tough.

However, a few items are available that pack a protein punch. But fair warning: it might cost you a pretty penny. So while your wallet won’t be thanking you, your mind and muscles certainly will.

Cheeseburger

A ground beef patty topped with cheese, placed between buns, is an American classic and usually provides 15-20 grams of protein. Get you some ketchup, and you’ll be good to go.

Chicken Basket/Chicken Sandwich

Chicken is one of the best sources of protein, and fortunately, the BJC offers chicken tender baskets, fried chicken sandwiches, and Nashville hot chicken sandwiches. Pair one of these choices with French fries and a condiment of your choice for a filling meal with 20+ grams of protein.

Brisket/Pulled Pork

There are a few Spotlight BBQ locations sprinkled throughout the concourse that offer traditional Brisket or Pulled Pork-centered dishes. Essentially, pick your choice of meat, then choose between a sandwich, loaded fries, or mac & cheese. From personal experience, the loaded brisket fries are delicious, but the brisket mac & cheese would add more protein. Regardless, the options are tasty and filling.

Italian Sausage/Meatball Sub

It’s no $4 Meatball Monday sub from McLanahan’s, but the two options at the BJC are flavorful and will make a dent in your daily protein progress.

Cheesesteak

Tied with a chicken basket, the Chickie and Pete’s cheesesteak is the most expensive item on this list at $14, but it might be worth it. While there is no verified nutrition information from the restaurant chain, it’s safe to assume a cheesesteak has 30+ grams of protein from the shaved beef and melted cheese. Feeling fatigued from holding up your THON organization’s signs in the stands? Grab yourself a Philly staple and replenish those muscles!

Hoagie

Cold cuts like turkey and ham are great sources of protein. Throw on some cheese and add some veggies for fiber, and you’ve got yourself a balanced BJC meal. It might not be as customizable as a Wawa hoagie, but it’ll do the trick.

Walking Taco

There’s no Taco Bell in the BJC, but walking tacos are available at House of Hoagies. Folks can add protein like seasoned ground beef to bags of Doritos or Fritos along with other toppings. Just eat it fast so it doesn’t get soggy!

Breakfast Sandwich

Eating a high-protein breakfast is essential to avoiding crashing energy levels, so opting for one of the bacon, ham, sausage, or chicken-and-waffle breakfast sandwiches is bound to leave you fueled up and satiated through your early morning shift. The added protein from the egg and cheese really levels this meal up.