Outside Lands, the iconic music festival held in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, has been a pioneer in revolutionizing the festival food experience for over 15 years. Unlike traditional music festivals where food options are limited to basic concessions, Outside Lands has elevated the culinary offerings by giving restaurants and wineries a starring role in the weekend of non-stop music. This unique approach has made Outside Lands a must-visit destination for foodies and music lovers alike.
A three-day music festival like Outside Lands is a serious marathon for anyone over the age of 20. With non-stop music performances and a sprawling festival ground to navigate, it can be challenging to find time to enjoy the delicious food offerings. However, with a bit of planning and strategy, festival attendees can make the most of their culinary experience at Outside Lands.
One of the best ways to sample a variety of dishes at Outside Lands is by purchasing a Bites of the Bay ticket book. For $20, festival-goers can enjoy „secret“ snack-sized items from over 70 participating food vendors. This allows attendees to embark on a fun scavenger hunt for tasty bites while exploring the festival grounds.
On Friday, as the festival kicks off with early sets starting at noon, attendees can take advantage of the opportunity to try some food before the crowds arrive. Popular vendors like Bette’s and Konjoe Burger offer delicious options like chicken parm sandwiches and grass-fed burgers with Wagyu tallow truffle fries. Additionally, Cocktail Magic, located near the main entrance, provides prebatched tap cocktails from themed bar stalls, offering a unique drinking experience.
As the day progresses, festival-goers can explore Wine Lands, a serene area nestled in the forest away from the hustle and bustle. Here, attendees can enjoy a variety of wine tastings, providing a relaxing break from the festival madness. For those looking for a late-night snack, Ramen Shop offers warming ramen to satisfy hunger pangs as the evening sets in.
Saturday presents another opportunity to indulge in the diverse food offerings at Outside Lands. With roasteries like Abanico Coffee Roasters and Timeless Coffee serving up quality brews, attendees can start their day on a caffeinated note. The expansive Beer Lands area and Gray Whale Gin’s installation offer additional options for drinks and cocktails.
Throughout the day, festival-goers can explore the various food vendors scattered across the Polo Field, sampling dishes like muffaletta sandwiches, lamb-garlic fries, and Malaysian noodles. While lines may start to form during peak hours, attendees can still find delicious options at stalls like Otra, Copas, and Dalida. It’s all about satisfying your hunger with a variety of flavors and cuisines.
On Sunday, as the festival nears its end, attendees can make a final push to try any remaining food vendors on their list. Long lines may not always indicate the best food, so it’s essential to explore different options and not get discouraged by crowds. From quesabirria tacos to Colombian chorizo corn dogs, there are plenty of unique dishes to savor at Outside Lands.
As the festival winds down on Sunday, vendors may start running out of food, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly and prioritize must-try dishes earlier in the day. With staff exhausted after a long weekend of serving hungry festival-goers, vendors may begin closing up shop early, making it crucial to seize the opportunity to sample your favorite festival finds before it’s too late.
In conclusion, Outside Lands has set the bar high for festival food experiences, offering a diverse array of culinary delights for attendees to enjoy. By strategizing and planning ahead, festival-goers can make the most of their time at Outside Lands and savor some of the tastiest bites and sips the event has to offer. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a music lover, Outside Lands promises a memorable and delicious experience for all who attend.