The greatest day in mobile food vending is back. On September 12, the Vendy Awards will take place on Governor’s Island honoring the greatest in New York’s food vending community. Tickets are still available for purchase here. For the next few weeks, I’ll be documenting all of the nominees in three categories.
Rookie of the Year: Lil Zeus Lunch Box
Greek street vendors used to be the norm in Midtown, but today there are only a handful left. Newcomers Lil Zeus Lunch Box are bringing the classic gyros and souvlakis back to the streets and the long lunch lines every day prove that people have been missing it.
Dessert of the Year: Booqoo Beignets
With Booqoo Beignets, Matt Pace is showcasing a special treat he grew up with in his hometown of New Orleans. Beignets, of course, are the greatest type of doughnuts – light, fluffy, and fresh. He pairs them with some creative sauces, like Chicory Coffee and Creole Vanilla that link back to his home cuisine.
Market Vendor of the Year: Home Frite
Another classic fried food to dip in sauces are french fried potatoes. Popular Smorgasburg vendor Home Frite hand cuts their spuds and fries them to order. Tossed with an array of seasoning options (salt and vinegar, truffle oil, etc) and served with gourmet dipping sauces (lemon garlic aioli, chipotle ranch, etc), they are an addicting snack that disappears a little too quickly.
