The NOSH at Wicker Park

This food festival was a lot smaller than I thought it was going to be. Although during the summer, they utilize the lot behind them? Also, there was a forecast of rain so many vendors backed out.
I think perhaps if I went during Nosh’s «heyday,» I would have been more impressed. I kind of expected actual food trucks, not just tables. Also, the price point was pretty high compared to other food truck/​food festivals such as the Food Truck Social by Kendall College. $ 8 for a small bowl of jambalaya?! We were so hungry afterwards that we walked to Big Star and got tacos.
I do have to applaud Nosh for hosting a weekly food festival. It’s terribly hard and you’re at the mercy of the weather and the vendors. I watched as cameras recorded the vendors at their stations, so I hope the added publicity will make this more than a passing thought.

I’m in theory in favor of the NOSH. I say in theory because given the size and the execution I think it leaves a lot to be desired. Not that many vendors and the space is somewhat awkwardly set up. Also it’s nice to have live music but the speakers were totally blaring which made it kind of uncomfortable to browse and sit in such a small space. I’m really hoping it takes off though and is able to work out a few of these kinks as I think the idea of having a weekly vendor-​led food gathering is a pretty great one.

Pleasantly surprised. I was warned before going by a friend to keep my expectations low. Yes it’s a small setup and there weren’t many vendors. But I liked how low key it was. No need to stand in line for anything. Perfectly respectable effort given this is their first year. Look forward to visiting again!

Pretty cool idea!
If I didn’t come to NOSH I never would’ve tried the food at the Bergstein’s NY Deli truck. I’m not a fan of corned beef, but this sandwich was ridiculous. Huge pieces of hot and fresh corned beef have made me a believer. I hope they find a place closer to the city than Chicago Heights!
Plenty of other food vendors serving up tacos, lobster rolls, egg sandwiches, and other things for you to NOSH on. See what I did there?
I think the best part was the live bluegrass band they had perform. I think they were called CrazeeHeart. The old man/​lead singer told some great stories with classic deadpan humor to lead into each song. Not to mention the music was enjoyable as well.
No alcohol, as it’s on a grade school playground, but there is lemonade, iced tea, and arnold palmers. The lemonade was good on a hot Saturday morning!
If it increases at all (around 20 – 25 vendors right now), I would advise to increase the number of tables, as lots of the food items are tough to eat without one. Still, a nice experience.