Unless you live under a rock (or are a West-coaster still hung up over Coachella), then you know the Governor’s Ball Music Festival took over Randall’s Island this past month. Referred to as GovBall by anyone in the know, the festival represents the intersection of all things NYC: music, fashion, and of course, good eats. In case you missed out this year (or are still drooling from the weekend), I compiled a list of the hottest food porn at GovBall 2017.
#1 : Wowfulls
Despite only offering one menu item, the Wowfulls team absolutely dominated the confection game at this year’s festival. With bright colors and all the Oreo crumbles a girl could possibly need, this waffle-wrapped dessert was the perfect post Marshmello mosh-pit snack. An obvious bonus? This dessert adds a perfect pop of color to your Instagram feed?
Still hankering for ice-cream? Check out their brick-and-mortar location on the Lower East Side.
#2: Bluestone Lane
Typically an East Coast coffee institution, Bluestone Lane bought more than just caffeinated beverages to the table. Their lovely staff churned out a seemingly infinite number of avocado toast, effectively bringing their trademark item to the masses. Topped with crushed pepper, their toast made for a quirky and filling festival lunch.
For more midday power moves, head to one of their many aesthetically pleasing locations throughout the country.
#3: John’s Juice
Who would’ve thought that an all natural juice stand would’ve been the weekend’s runaway hit? Thanks to their straight from the fruit juices and quick service, John’s Juice never had a line less than 100 people deep. The pineapple, my personal favorite, pairs excellently with sparkling water (or rainbow chokers, if that’s more your thing).
Still can’t get enough juice? Catch them at Smorgasburg every weekend throughout the summer.
#4: Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
If you anything about me, you know I’m Van Leeuwen’s #1 stan. Known for their inventive vegan and classic flavors, this ice cream chameleon was my go-to during GovBall weekend. Unlike some other ice cream brands, Van Leeuwen doesn’t leave you feeling heavy. Its creamy and light consistency leaves you feeling ready to conquer the crowd at the next headliner.
Obsessed with their matcha icecream? You can order pints straight off their website.
#5: Roberta’s
Imagine this: you and your friends just survived the pit at Mac Demarco’s banger of a set. You’re hungry, desperate for carbs, and sweaty. There’s only one option: Roberta’ pizza.
With fresh ingredients and an excellent thin-crust, a pie from Roberta’s is the perfect way to rejuvenate. Each pizza is seasoned with red pepper like a true New York slice, effectively bringing a piece of the city to this oasis of a weekend.
Looking for a bite before your next Brooklyn concert? Head to Roberta’s Bushwick locale.
#6: Big Mozz
Whoever said cheddar was the new mozzarella was seriously disturbed. In all seriousness, mozzarella sticks are the quintessential festival snack, and Big Mozz’s are no exception. Gooey with a slight crunch, these bites of cheesy goodness will definitely satisfy any need for cheese.
Looking for a snack near Central Park? Hit up Big Mozz’s SummerStage stand.
#6: The Bao Shoppe
Bao, which rhymes with wow for obvious reasons, is a Chinese steamed bun that can be filled with almost anything. At the Bao Shoppe, this notation is taken very seriously. Thanks to fillings ranging from shrimp tempura to crispy tofu, this Asian street food proliferated GovBall. In a sea of pizza slices and ice cream cones, the Bao Shoppe was a much needed refresher.
In the mood for something steamy? Head on over to their permanent Lower East Side Location.
#7: Mister Dips
Lovingly referred to as “Shake Shack on acid,” Mister Dips elevates everything you love about our patron food: the burger. Love meat? Mister Dips doubles the patties. Love sauce? Theirs comes from a secret recipe. In an age where burgers are constantly re-invented, Mister Dips classical take on America’s standby is more than refreshing.
Love eating comfort food in bougie locations? Mister Dips is situated in an airstream trailer on top of the William Vale hotel.
#8: Tacombi
This GovBall weekend, Tacombi did double duty, serving up their signature tacos in the Infatuation Village and a VIP happy hour. This just goes to show just how lovable, and not to mention versitale, Tacombi’s offerings are. One of only a few vendors who offered both carnivorous and vegeterian options, Tacombi hit it out of the park with their bold flavors.
Need a new #tacotuesday spot? Check one of their many locations throughout NYC.
#9: Cookie DŌ NYC
Who says cones are just limited to ice cream? At Cookie DŌ, you can get your favorite guilty (or let’s be real, any time) pleasure served in a perfectly portable cone. Great for eating while dancing or waiting in the pit for the next performer, this dessert was practically a must-have.
Need a Cookie DŌ fix from your couch? You can order small batches directly to your house.
As you can see, GovBall is more than just the East Coast’s answer to Coachella. It’s a weekend full of bests: the best music and the best food.