This year's incoming class features 22 newcomers, and nearly half are immigrant-founded or built on family recipes. Smorgasburg CEO and owner Gaston Becherano called the vendors "the heartbeat of this market," framing the event as a launchpad for small operators looking to test and grow their concepts in front of hungry crowds.
Pierogi Boys started as a Polish food stand in the DeKalb Market Hall, where co-owners and partners Krzysztof Poluchowicz and Andrzej Kinczyk honed in on crafting their signature dish in Brooklyn. Now, they've expanded with a full restaurant and market in Ridgewood, where they serve those dumplings alongside other exciting, modern Polish dishes, while selling their favorite produce and products in Queens.
Airports are not usually known for their food. So often they are worlds of plastic-wrapped sandwiches, wilted lettuce and dishes that taste only of delay. When we are flying, we crave edible comfort and maybe even a touch of joy. For years, that has felt like too much to ask. Gordon Ramsay Plane Food Market at Heathrow Terminal 5 is far more than a quick refuelling stop. It recognises that travellers are human beings.