What Happened at Yes Chef Food Festival

OMG, if you missed the Yes Chef Food Festival in Greenpoint, Brooklyn this year, you absolutely have to mark your calendars for next time! I just got back from it, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable culinary journey. Imagine walking into a vibrant outdoor space, the New York City skyline twinkling in the distance, and the air buzzing with excitement, music, and the most incredible aromas. That’s exactly what the Yes Chef Food Fest delivered. The festival was truly a cultural food mesh, bringing together an amazing array of cuisines. I loved seeing so many talented food vendors that I've followed online, all in one place. It felt like a curated experience, especially with foodie influencer @jacksdiningroom involved – you knew every stall was going to be top-notch. I saw so many festival-goers with plates piled high, just like the image of the woman smiling with her burger and fries! My personal highlight was exploring the endless options; it wasn't just typical festival fare. I sampled everything from a delicious, saucy cone from G&R Italian Deli (it was heavenly, trust me!) to perfectly crafted Mimi Cheng's Dumplings. There were also amazing sliders, mini pizzas, and various unique food items that made it hard to choose where to go next. The atmosphere was electric. A live DJ kept the energy high, and there was even a live tuna cutting on a stage – the fish was genuinely humungous, and it was fascinating to watch! Beyond the main dishes, I also found some really unique treats. I even got to try a Baileys Caught Treating drink with whipped cream, which was the perfect sweet ending to my food adventure. It's these little surprises that really make a food festival stand out. For those planning to go next year, here are a few tips from my experience. The festival ran in two tiers: 11:30 am - 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm. I went for the earlier slot and found it busy but manageable. If you prefer slightly smaller crowds, consider the later slot or arrive right when a session starts. There were free food stations, but also plenty of vendors where you could purchase additional items, so bring some cash or be ready to use your card. Wear comfortable shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, exploring all the amazing stalls. And definitely come with an empty stomach – you'll want to try everything! It's one of the best NYC things to do for food lovers, offering a taste of the city's diverse culinary scene against a fantastic backdrop. I can't recommend it enough, and I'm already looking forward to next year's edition!