New York Vendy Awards… The Ultimate Street Meet!

If you’ve ever explored foreign cities like Chicago, Los Angeles and New York – then you’ve noticed that they all have one thing in common (besides awesome skyscrapping structures) it’s all about the street vendor experience.  From that undeniable spot for Halal, to the common hot dog – street vendors have the snack and go game on LOCK!  Recently, I got the chance to check out NYC’s premier street food showcase and an intense cook-off between the best sidewalk chefs, also known as the Vendy Awards NYC.  The Vendys has become one of the city’s most beloved and widely anticipated food events every year.  In addition to sampling some of the best in street vendor cuisine, guests are treated to beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages alongside live music, entertaining performances, and a raffle, leading up to the awards ceremony naming the “Best Of” winners!

With over 27 vendors serving everything from Thai to cornbread flavored ice cream (and everything in between), it’s no wonder that this event isn’t for the foodie-faint-of-heart.

As I wandered across the open area of Industry City (Brooklyn), I let my eyes write a check that my stomach just couldn’t cash.  As I indulged in Gumbo and Jambalya from “The French Quarter” based in New Jersey, Chicken wraps from “King Souvlaki”, and Lobster Grilled Cheese from “Luke’s Lobster” – just as I began to lose steam & chewing momentum, I ultimately fell under a self-inflicted foodie high (and I loved it!).  Topping my desire for sweets were fresh homemade donuts and ice cream, ultimately leading to the awards ceremony naming El Olomega of Red Hook (Brooklyn) the winner of the 2013 NYC Vendy Awards.

Did you miss the sold out NYC Vendy Awards?  Don’t worry, the Vendys are coming to a city near you with stops in Chicago and Los Angeles later this year.  For more information on the Vendys and street vendors in your area visit http://streetvendor.org/vendys/.