The culinary version of a surprise collaboration arrives June 22 when NYC’s star chefs debut never-before-tasted food partnerships on Governors Island. “The Great Nosh” – not your average Instagram food fest – brings together cultural crossovers as unexpected as finding a quiet corner in Times Square.
The festival transforms the former military outpost into a playground where Thai Diner wraps Katz’s legendary corned beef in aromatic roti – a cross-cultural sandwich that combines two beloved New York institutions. (And promises to be delicious.)
Food Collaborations That Sound Made Up (But Aren’t)
The Great Nosh operates like a culinary dream team where chefs partner up to create entirely new dishes. Pastry wizard Caroline Schiff teams with Junior’s to create what might be quintessential New York dessert: black-and-white cookie cheesecake sandwiches with cherry jam. You know that feeling when two favorite foods combine into something greater than the sum of their parts? This is that.
Philadelphia’s Zahav joins forces with seafood spot Dame for “schnitz and chips” – schnitzel meets fish and chips with tehina ketchup and amba. The dish represents a fusion that crosses both geographical and culinary boundaries.
Other notable partnerships include Russ & Daughters with Morgenstern’s ice cream and Elbow Bread bakery serving a bialy topped with smoky eggplant and zucchini banchan created with Korean spot Sunn’s. Brooklyn’s The Four Horsemen will pour drinks at a pop-up wine bar, adding another layer to this multi-faceted festival.
Beyond the Plate: Games People Play
The “Grandmas Tent” – hosted by food writers Gail Simmons and Pati Jinich – offers cooking demos that showcase generations of culinary wisdom. Imagine learning techniques passed down through families while sitting cross-legged on a picnic blanket like it’s storytime for grown-ups.
Those feeling competitive can test their strength against seasoned opponents in an arm wrestling challenge with “old Jewish men” – an unexpected festival activity that adds a playful touch to the day’s events.
A “Summer Camp” beading workshop by Susan Alexandra rounds out the programming – because nothing pairs better with a full stomach than making something with your hands.
If You Go
Tickets: $40 for adults, $20 for children ages 6-12, free for children under 5
Includes: Festival entry, picnic tote, limited edition blanket with reusable utensils, access to all programming, and complimentary water
Food & Drink: Available for purchase from chef-collab stations and marketplace
Kosher Options: The Enchanted Garden by Eyal Shani offers certified kosher food
Seating: Limited picnic tables (first-come basis); most guests use provided blankets
Weather Policy: Rain or shine
Not Permitted: Outside food/beverages, large bags, pets (except service animals)
The Great Nosh might seem like another entry in New York’s packed food festival calendar – similar to how Sizzle & Chopsticks is bringing an Asian food explosion to New England this season. But with its blend of unexpected culinary collaborations and cultural programming that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the Great Nosh is positioned to become a standout summer event worth marking on your calendar.
