The 2nd Annual Los Angeles Vendy Awards

Once again the Vendy Awards are coming to Los Angeles! On Sunday June 24th, at Pan Pacific Park, we’ll determine the best street food vendor in New York while raising money for LA City Farm.

The Vendys are:

• An intense cook-off between the best sidewalks chefs in the city.

• A festival of respect and gratitude for all vendors and everything they provide us–from your morning coffee (half-and-half, two sugars) to the $2 umbrella when you get caught in the thunderstorm.
  

Each ticket is also a tax deductible donation.

WE EXPECT TO SELL OUT. BUY YOUR TICKET IN ADVANCE!

TICKET PRICES INCLUDES FOOD FROM ALL OF OUR FINALISTS

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What are the Vendy Awards?

The Vendys are a yearly street food cook-off that, since 2005, has determined the best street chef in NYC. It has become one of the greatest food events in New York. Mario Batali called the Vendys “the Oscars of food for the real New York.” Now,  for the second year they are coming to Los Angeles!

What’s the point?

The point is to celebrate the street vendors who serve us every day, and who bring so much culinary and cultural life to our streets and public spaces. Also, to raise money for LA City Farm, a non-profit who’s goal is to make locally farmed organic produce, and prepared foods more easily available to Southern Californian communities.

 How does it work?

Simple enough. Until May 24th, we’ll take public nominations  to determine who will be the lucky 7-or-so vendors invited to compete against each other for street food glory. At the event, we’ll have a team of distinguished judges score the finalists and decide who get the coveted Vendy Cup. The general public can also buy tickets to the event, to enjoy the vendors’ food as well as beer, wine and general festiveness.

Where and when?

Sunday, June 24th, 2010 from 1pm to 5pm at Pan Pacific Park (next to the Grove.)

Which vendors are eligible for nomination?

Anyone who sells food in the streets, sidewalks or public spaces, anywhere in Los Angeles County. Finalists will be determined by who gets the most nominations – however we will make sure that the finalists represent the wondrous diversity of LA street food.

How will you avoid a street food catastrophe?

We’ve been running this event for 7 years in NYC and 2 years in LA, and no one has ever gone home hungry. We’ll stop selling tickets when we reach our limit. Because vendors can only work so fast, you will have to stand in line, but that is where you make new friends. One couple even got married after meeting in line at the Vendys! Results may vary, however.

What does my ticket get me?

Admission to the event, where you’ll get to eat food from all the finalists. And, since the Vendy Awards LA are a benefit event for non-profit organizations, your $35 ticket is tax-deductible.

Can I buy my ticket later or at the door?

Unfortunately no, buy yours now to be safe and save some money.

Are kids welcome? Do they need tickets?

We love kids and kids love street food. Children 10 and under don’t need a ticket. Otherwise, they do.

I’m a member of the press. How do I get a press pass or arrange to interview the organizers or individual vendors?

Do not call, but send an email to vendyawardsLA@gmail.com Please include your contact info and the name of your publication. Press passes are limited.

My company would like to sponsor the Vendy Awards LA. What should I do?

Drop us a line at vendyawardsLA@gmail.com or give us a call at 917.716.8253. The Vendys bring out hundreds of food-savvy guests each year and attracts international media attention.

Can I volunteer at the Vendys, or help organize the event?

Yes! We need volunteers to help plan and work the event. Please email vendyLAvolunteer@gmail.com if you are interested.

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