Coachella 2023: A Culinary Experience Guide
Every year, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival attracts a diverse audience, not just for the music but also for its vibrant food scene. With various brands offering enticing food options ranging from gourmet meals to delightful snacks, attendees can embark on a culinary adventure while enjoying performances at the Empire Polo Club.
Interactive Activations and Brand Freebies
A standout feature of this year’s festival is the array of interactive brand activations. For instance, the Takis installation offers guests a chance to engage with colorful graffiti walls while sampling their renowned rolled tortilla chips, including the fiery new Blue Heat flavor.
Brand experiences abound, with Korean spice brand Buldak alongside Hi-Chew gummies in the vicinity. Additionally, Travis Scott has contributed to the festival’s aesthetic by designing a desert-themed activation that includes partner giveaways, offering refreshing ginger shots from Erewhon.
Festival-goers can save money by indulging in these complimentary samples—especially useful at a festival where general admission tickets exceed $600. However, for those desiring more substantial meals, various affordable dining options are also available throughout the festival grounds.
A Taste of Coachella
Among the array of food options, the Indio Central Market stands out, featuring Italian deli All’Antico Vinaio. Festival attendees can savor the signature focaccia sandwiches, including a limited-time La Coachella option that boasts prosciutto, stracciatella, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil for $14, with other sandwiches priced at $12 each.
Nearby, Dallas-based Sandoitchi offers a selection of Japanese sandwiches, including unique flavors like strawberry with chantilly cream or Spam with egg. Prices for these sandwiches range from $20 to $25, while an extravagant A5 Wagyu katsu and caviar sando can be had for $250.
Thirst Quenchers and Sweet Treats
For those seeking refreshing treats, McConnell’s Ice Cream and Happy Ice provide delightful options, with Farmhouse Kitchen selling fresh young coconuts at $12—an excellent way to hydrate while enjoying the festival atmosphere.
Filipino food vendors like Mano Po near the Sonora Tent are gaining attention with offerings such as longganisa lumpia and garlic shrimp with rice, all priced reasonably under $22. Further down, College Boy Cheesesteaks serves authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks with a choice of fillings, starting at $18.
Specialized Dining Experiences
For those desiring an upscale dining experience, the Outstanding in the Field and Nobu pop-ups offer luxurious options. Outstanding in the Field features a communal dining setup where guests enjoy a multicourse meal with wine pairings, while Nobu presents its global Nikkei cuisine under the banner of Red Bull Mirage. Despite the grandeur, some may find that signature dishes like black cod with miso are missing from the festival menu, which might significantly influence one’s dining experience.
Unique Treats and Must-Try Items
Unique culinary offerings this year include Something Good’s crispy potato flautas dressed with fresh toppings and Chubby Club’s innovative dishes like uni ice cream. For those with a taste for luxury, Sumo Dog provides wasabi and caviar tots—priced at $45—a creative alternative to pricier caviar options elsewhere.
As the festival continues, attendees are encouraged to explore the various culinary landscapes available, indulging not just in music but also in unforgettable dining experiences that Coachella has to offer.
Conclusion
Coachella’s culinary offerings this year showcase a remarkable blend of gourmet meals, lively fun, and affordable treats, making it a premier spot for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re sampling brand freebies or savoring a specialty dish, the festival delivers a delicious experience amidst the music and arts.