Edible Events: September 2017

There are all manner of fun, food events taking place in New York on a daily basis — from lavish, charity-driven galas to crowded, walk-around tastings and an endless array of pop-ups.  But unless you have the time and money to party seven days a week, you’ll have to be somewhat discerning about what goes onto your calendar.  So here are just a few worthy food celebrations we recommend getting tickets (or making reservations) for now.

Taste Talks Brooklyn (9/8-10): Northside Media (behind the music and film-centric Northside Festival) turns its focus to food with this national series of celebrations. Spanning the length of the weekend and curated by Wylie Dufresne and Andrew Carmellini, notable events include panel discussions with Dana Cowin, Dan Barber and Floyd Cardoz, the “Tasty Awards” hosted by Matty Matheson, and an All-Star BBQ, with 12 grills manned by unlikely culinary duos.

22nd Annual Harvest in the Square (9/14): Highlighting the very best that the neighborhood has to offer, Harvest in the Square is a reliable harbinger of fall. It raises funds for Union Square Partnership’s extensive beautification and community programs, by serving tasty dishes (from restaurants such as Bar Jamon, Daily Provisions, Fusco and Nur), showcasing produce from the seminal Greenmarket, paired with local wines and microbrews.

13th Annual Vendy Awards (9/16): Hosted by Mario Batali, “The Oscars of Street Food” returns to Governor’s Island this September, with standout mobile vendors competing in categories like Rookie, Market, Dessert, Vegan, and of course, the all-important Vendy Cup for best overall (Tacos El Rancho won last year) — nominees to be announced soon!

Taste of Gramercy (9/16): Started as a way to introduce locals to the array of food that Gramercy has to offer, the event’s mission has gotten much bigger than that.  Net proceeds go to benefit healthy meal programs at local public schools, and all leftover food (from spots like Le Coq Rico, Casa Neta, BLT Prime and Maysville) will go to feed the homeless via the Bowery Mission.

Taste Williamsburg Greenpoint (9/17): This block party-style tasting event showcases some of the most notable eats throughout Williamsburg and Greenpoint, with ticket sales benefiting The Firehouse North Brooklyn Community Center.  And considering both neighborhoods are major dining destinations, you’ll won’t want to miss the opportunity to sample fare from Barano, Beehive Oven, Cheeseboat, Delaware & Hudson, Du’s Donuts, Maison Premiere and Leuca; just to name a few!

NY Tipsy Taco Fest (9/23-24): From tacos to tequila, margaritas to mariachi, party with unlimited food and drink for $55, at one of the season’s hottest fiestas.  In addition to patronizing local eateries (think Oaxaca Taqueria, La Esquina and Empanada Papa), you can bob for churros, dance to live music, join the nacho eating contest and more.