5 things to know about concessions and food at the new Atlanta Falcons stadium

The Mercedes-Benz Stadium is still more than a year away from being open to the public, but big announcements are already being made about the culinary options that'll be offered up once the Atlanta Falcons make it their home.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank and president Rich McKay discussed the plans for concessions at the new stadium  -- and gave reporters a peek at what the concession stands will look like -- at a press conference this morning. Here are a few takeways:

• The prices will be insane -- in a good way: We're talking $2 for soda, water, hot dogs and pretzels; $3 waffle fries, pizza slices and nachos; $5 for a 12-ounce domestic beer or cheeseburger; and $6 chicken tender baskets with fries. The prices are an effort to make games more financially accessible for families, Blank said. "It's our way of saying thank you to fans for their support," said Blank. who added that these prices will remain the same indefinitely.

• Soda will be self-serve -- and comes with free refills: You won't have to worry about waiting in a long line just for a soda refill -- the self-serve soda area will be located in a separate area from the main concession stand and allows fans to refill as many times as they want.

• Several local restaurants have signed contracts to sell food at the stadium: Blank and McKay wouldn't give specific names (though McKay did note that barbecue would be in the mix), but said they'd already set deals with at least five local restaurants and are in talks with four to five more to sell food at the stadium. A full list of restaurants will be released in June or July.

• Healthy options will be available: Though Blank acknowledged that most fans don't come to games to "eat celery and carrots," he said there would be several organic and fresh food choices for those looking to steer clear of grease.