As the month of April ushers in warmer weather, 125,000 festival-goers have made their annual pilgrimage to the desert for Coachella. Over the first weekend, temperatures soared to a scorching 102 degrees, with an electrifying lineup featuring artists such as Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, Megan Thee Stallion, Jennie and Lisa of Blackpink, and Charli XCX.
Coachella is renowned not only for its stellar musical performances but also for its diverse and impressive food offerings from a range of vendors. Here’s a look at some of the best dishes that delighted attendees over the weekend.
**The Terrace**
Located near the iconic Ferris wheel and SPECTRA rainbow tower, The Terrace provides an expansive dining experience divided into three vibrant areas: Terrace North, Terrace South, and Terrace West. One popular stop is FiveO3 Pupusas, specializing in assorted Salvadoran pupusas. Among the offerings are options like chicken and cheese, beans and cheese, and a mixed pupusa filled with shredded pork, refried beans, and cheese, delicately topped with curtido and your choice of mild or spicy salsa roja.
After a day under the blazing sun, the comfort of plantains, which are fried until caramelized and served alongside refried beans and sour cream, is an attractive option. FiveO3 Pupusas also operates a booth in the exclusive 12 Peaks VIP area for those seeking a premium experience.
The allure of spicy food continues with Shlap Muan, a Cambodian chicken wing specialist run by husband-and-wife duo Sophia and Hawk. Their signature Dirty Elvis wings, a sweet, tangy, and spicy twist on a Khmer braise traditionally used for pork belly and ribs, are wok-fried to perfection and finished with a sticky glaze that caramelizes each piece. After indulging in these wings, patrons can venture towards the trellis wall adorned with mirrors and flora to discover one of Coachella’s speakeasies.
**Coachella Courtyard**
After burning off energy in the Yuma tent or making your way toward a performance on the Coachella stage, the Coachella Courtyard presents an array of food options. Among the notable vendors are Tacos 1986, Sunny Blue, Fat Sal’s, and Backyard Bowls, all hailing from Los Angeles. A standout in this selection is The Truffle Boys, known for their extravagant takes on comfort food.
Their truffle frites, lavishly coated in a creamy truffle béchamel, shaved truffles, and fresh chives, serve as a perfect snack to share with a friend while striking a harmonious balance between rich cheese and earthy truffle.
All Dat Dumplings rounds out the offerings with an extensive menu of dumplings, including pork soup dumplings and shrimp and pork wontons. Additionally, they offer unique beverage options like a banana milk topped with banana cream. The shrimp and pork wontons are served in a savory blend of soy sauce, chile oil, fresh green onions, and sesame seeds, bursting with flavor and complemented by a delightful vinegar tang.
For those in search of seating, the nearby Heineken tent area features ample chairs, providing the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while catching a glimpse of the musical performances.
**Indio Central Market**
Indio Central Market houses more than ten food vendors and can feel like a culinary treasure hunt for festival-goers. This shaded food hall features a variety of offerings, including the iconic Kogi from Roy Choi, Farmhouse Thai Kitchen, and Irv’s Burgers. A significant newcomer, Sandoitchi from Dallas, Texas, introduces festival-goers to Japanese sandwiches known as “sandoitchi.”
Their spicy truffle chicken katsu sando is a must-try, featuring Koji-marinated chicken, cabbage, truffle hot sauce, and truffle Kewpie mayo, all nestled between fluffy milk bread. The chicken katsu, boasting a perfect crispy texture, ensures a satisfying yet lighter eating experience brimming with robust fried chicken flavor. Sandoitchi also offers a delightful Japanese strawberry cream sando, featuring whipped cream and fresh strawberries sandwiched between milk bread—a sweet way to conclude any meal.
To cool off from the Indio heat, attendees can savor the classic Philly water ice available from Happy Ice. This fruity frozen dessert, which is softer and smoother than traditional sorbet, comes in various invigorating flavors. The Rainbow Rocket captures the essence of a Fourth of July rocket pop, while the Summertime variant, featuring mango, watermelon, and strawberry lemonade, promises a refreshing finish.
**VIP Rose Garden**
The VIP Rose Garden offers festival-goers an oasis from the throngs, with shorter lines and significantly more shade. Among the noteworthy offerings is Inssa, a Korean pub from Chino Hills. Their standout menu features a selection of Korean pastas, bulgogi quesadillas, nachos, and fries.
The kimchi pasta comes highly recommended, exuding creaminess with a harmonious blend of kimchi, cheese, and crispy bacon, reminiscent of a classic carbonara. Each strand of pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, making it a delightful culinary experience.
As Coachella 2023 continues, the festival’s culinary scene remains an integral part of the experience, delighting attendees with diverse flavors and exciting food vendors.
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