By Vicki Hogue-Davies and Bespoke Concierge Magazine Staff
Tastings, chef demonstrations and intimate dinners are packed into a four-day itinerary for the New York City Wine & Food Festival that kicks off on Thursday, Oct. 15. Visitors with limited time, however, should mark their calendars for these four events that are not to be missed.
Tacos & Tequila
Oct. 15; 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Urbo (11 Times Square)
One of the events kicking off the festival, Tacos & Tequila will celebrate the two offerings. About 15 chefs and mixologists from around New York will serve a range of tacos paired with creative tequila cocktails for a 21-and-older crowd. Host for the evening will be chef Aarón Sánchez (Food Network’s “Chopped” and Cooking Channel’s “Taco Trip”). Tickets cost $150 and are only available to purchase with a MasterCard.
Blue Moon Burger Bash
Oct. 16; 7-10 p.m.
Esurance Rooftop at Pier 92
As the name implies, guests will enjoy burgers and beer at the eighth annual Blue Moon Burger Bash. Hosted by Rachael Ray, this tasting event features more than two dozen top chefs offering their own unique takes on burgers. After sampling dishes made by connoisseurs of this classic American entree, guests can vote for the Blue Moon People’s Choice Award. Tickets for the outdoor event can be purchased for $225.
Top Dog: A NY Hot Dog Competition
Oct. 17; 4-6 p.m.
The Standard Biergarten at The Standard, High Line
About a dozen hot dog purveyors will go head to head in this friendly competition surrounding the street cart food. Attendees can expect to try both classic New York-style hot dogs as well as inventive takes from restaurants like Big Daddy’s and Bark. Andrew Zimmern of Travel Channel’s “Bizarre Foods” will host the festivities; entry for the event costs $105.
Best Bloody Mary Brunch
Oct. 18; 12:30-3 p.m.
Pier 60 at Chelsea Piers
On Sunday morning, the cast of the Food Network’s “Chopped,” including Scott Conant, Marcus Samuelsson and Geoffrey Zakarian, among a few others, will determine who serves the “Best Bloody Mary.” The libations will be made using select brands from the Southern Wine & Spirits portfolio. Also during the event, local chefs will prepare quintessential brunch dishes to go with the cocktails. Tickets are available for $165.
