The Vendys

No, not the Dundies.  The Vendys.

Tonight at the French Market, nine of New Orleans' favorite food vendors will vie for "street food glory." Begun in 2005, the Vendy Awards are a yearly cookoff whose goal is to celebrate the street food vendors of NYC. After the competition expanded to L.A. and Philly in recent years, organizers decided that New Orleans was ready for its own satellite competition.  The Vendys are the brainchild of The Street Vendor Project, and cult favorite Brooklyn Brewery lends a helping hand by offering libations.

After tallying up nominations from the public, the list of competitors has been chosen:

• Woody's Fish Tacos
• Vaucresson Sausage Co.
• Taceaux Loceaux
• The Ya-ka-Mein Lady
• La Cocinita
• Hot Tamale Mama
• Empanada Infitada
• Fat Falafel
• Foodie Call

A team of distinguished judges will score these finalists and decide who earns the coveted Vendy Cup.  (Note: the Vendy Cup is not as iconic as a Dundie Award). The general public can also vote for a people's choice award.

A limited number of tickets are available, so purchasing in advance is strongly suggested.  Prices start at $6 for the pay-as-you-go option and up to $36 for premium package, which includes samples from each vendor and unlimited beer.  Proceeds from the event benefit the New Orleans Food Truck Coalition and Slow Food NOLA.