About the 2010 LA Vendy Awards

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, 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 non-profit groups working to advance street vendors’ rights in LA. Click here to see the host organizations.
How does it work?
Simple enough. Until April 15th, we’ll take public nominations (nominate your favorite vendor here!) to determine who will be the lucky 6 to 8 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?
Saturday, May 15th, 2010 from 4 to 7pm at MacArthur Park, specifically S. Park View Street between W. 7th and Wilshire Blvd. It’s easy to get there via the Metro Rail’s Purple or Red lines to the Westlake/MacArthur Park station. Driving and parking information can be found here. Public transit directions can be found here. Here’s a map:
View Larger Map
MacArthur Park is one of the oldest parks in Los Angeles and boasts a rich and colorful history. In the first half of the 20th century, the park (formerly Westlake Park) was the centerpiece of the Westlake District and was considered the premiere urban oasis of Los Angeles. In 1999, it was selected as the first legal sidewalk vending district in LA.
The Vendys are timed to coincide with Contesting the Streets: Vending, Open Air Markets, and Public Space, an academic conference on street vending taking place that same weekend at UCLA.
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 five years, and no one has ever gone home hungry or thirsty. 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 while enjoying your fill of beer, wine and soda. And, since the Vendy Awards LA are a benefit event for non-profit organizations, your $50 ticket is tax-deductible.
Can I buy my ticket later or at the door?
Maybe, but tickets are going fast. And, if there are still any available, same-day tickets will go for $60. Best buy yours now (here) 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 (646) 602-5679. Our New York event brings out hundreds of food-savvy guests each year and attracts international media attention. We’re pretty sure the Vendys LA will be just as big. See our growing list of sponsors here.
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.
Who did the website and artwork?
Sean Su did our web work and Sean Finocchio did the artwork. Go Seans!

After five years in New York, the Vendy Awards are coming to Los Angeles. On May 15th, at MacArthur Park, we’ll determine the best street food vendor in LA while raising money for the movement to protect vendors’ rights.

Buy Tickets Here »