Playbook Plates

By: Aidan DeMuro

oct 7th, 2024

On a brisk and wet Saturday morning, I found myself trudging through hordes of Michigan fans in downtown Seattle, nursing a baby hangover as I made my way toward Husky Stadium for the game. The sea of maize and blue was utterly vast — Woodson and Brady jerseys littered the streets as far as the eye could see. Just when I was loosing steam, the crowd parted, revealing a shining star on a hill: Ludi’s, a legendary Filipino American diner that’s been serving up comfort to Seattle residents since 1936.

The smell hit me first — a tempting mix of garlic rice, sausage, and sizzling ube pancakes. It felt like heaven. I was then mysteriously summoned inside by all the fibers in my being. It was 7:30 AM, and the small diner was already packed with early risers. Students from the University of Washington and Michigan fans alike filled the tables, delivering colorful, unsolicited sports banter as they prepared for the game ahead. Ludi’s is a hotbed for Huskies and Seattle natives alike, offering a blend of classic American breakfast staples and incredible Filipino fare that have kept loyal families coming in for ages .

As I stumbled to my table half asleep, I then ordered a classic Silog breakfast — fried eggs, longanisa (sweet pork sausage), garlic rice, and a slice of pineapple. This Filipino dish is a powerhouse of savory and sweet flavors and it’s ideal for powering through a day of tailgating and football.

After filling up on some classic Seattle fare, the real adventure began. I boarded a massive triple-decker boat for a 4-hour “sailgate” across Lake Washington, hosted by the Michigan Alumni Association. The boat was a sports fan’s dream, complete with an open bar, a self-serve BBQ sandwich station, and plenty of pizza and wings. Sounds like a dream doesn’t it? As we cruised along the Puget Sound toward Husky Stadium, alumni shared their excitement for the upcoming game.

I met with Dave Bisek, a proud Michigan alum from the class of 1967, and his grandson, Jax, a future Michigan hopeful. Dave was full of energy, shockingly despite Michigan’s recent struggles. “While not the golden days anymore, the excitement shown in these alumni events is more than enough to get me thrilled for the beatdown tonight!” he said. “I’m telling Jax — the best days are ahead!”

As we approached Husky Stadium, excitement on the boat soared. Alumni led chants of “GO BLUE,” and the boat slowly made its way toward enemy territory. The energy was electric — this was the game fans had been waiting for since Washington’s announcement of its return to the Big Ten Conference.

Upon arriving at Husky Stadium, I was shocked to find the tailgating scene was ripe with activity. While I usually associate sports food with the North and South East, the Huskers put on quite the party. Cool vintage cars, good drinks, Seattle-style hotdogs, and even fresh oysters on ice flooded the back half of the stadium. As we made our way to the top section to watch the game, the jabs and cheers were relentless.

The game itself was a tough battle. Michigan’s “run it down the field” offense struggled against Washington’s stout and militaristic defense. The Huskies led for most of the game until the fourth quarter, when Michigan tied it up at 17-17. Ultimately, Washington sealed the win with a 1-yard touchdown, and a field goal following a clock burn-out. Securing the victory.

As the game came to a close, I grabbed a bizarre Husky Stadium specialty: clam chowder, paired with an overpriced $12 Rainier. Surprisingly delicious — 10/10, would eat again.

Cheers sports fans!!