Flushing Meadows, Queens – While the world watches the U.S. Open matches at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, local residents and visitors are also gathering for a food festival that rivals the on‑court action. This year the tournament features more than 100 food vendors, many led by well‑known chefs, offering a range of dishes that reflect the city’s diverse palate.
Celebrity chefs and viral dishes
Among the highlights is a French dip sandwich created by Henry Laporte of Salt Hank’s, a West Village eatery that has gone viral on social media. Laporte, who described the experience as “incredible” and “insane,” said he feels honored to stand alongside culinary icons such as Morimoto. The sandwich, made with love by Salt Hank’s team, marks the restaurant’s first appearance at the U.S. Open.
Another fan favorite is the Thankful Turkey Salad, a nod to the holiday season served on a bed of kale. The dish is a staple at The Nourish Spot, now in its fifth year at the tournament. Dawn Kelly, representing the Queens‑based business, called the opportunity to showcase on a global stage “phenomenal” for a small, emerging local operation.
Organizers emphasize preparation and community
USTA COO Danny Zausner likened the three‑week culinary marathon to “serving Mother’s Day in a restaurant for three straight weeks,” underscoring the logistical effort required to keep thousands of hungry fans satisfied. He praised the vendors for their readiness and the variety of options available across the grounds.
Simon King, a restaurateur quoted in the event coverage, added a touch of elegance to the proceedings, noting that “you have to use the mother‑of‑pearl spoon, but the most important part has to be pinky up.” His comment reflects the blend of high‑end dining experiences with classic stadium fare that defines this year’s food lineup.
Local impact and partnerships
The U.S. Open’s food program provides a valuable platform for Queens‑based businesses to reach a national audience. Partnerships with celebrities, including a meeting between The Nourish Spot’s team and pop star Billie Eilish and her mother Maggie Baird, illustrate the event’s cultural reach.
For Queens residents, the tournament also offers discounted tickets and special promotions, reinforcing the city’s commitment to making world‑class events accessible to the community.
Where to find the full menu
Fans can explore the complete list of food offerings on the official U.S. Open website, which details each vendor’s location and specialty dishes. Whether you’re craving classic stadium snacks or gourmet creations, the tournament’s culinary lineup promises something for every palate.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
