While many flock to Coachella for the electrifying music, the vibrant art installations, or the ultimate opportunity for striking selfies and showcasing their fashion-forward outfits, my personal pilgrimage to this iconic festival has always been driven by a different, equally compelling passion: the food. What started as a modest offering has blossomed into a full-fledged culinary adventure, transforming Coachella into a bonafide gastronomic destination.
The Coachella of old might have been solely about the headliners, but today, the festival’s culinary and artistic landscapes command just as much, if not more, attention. Each year, I find myself eagerly anticipating the reveal of the food vendor lineup with an excitement that rivals my eagerness for the music acts. For fellow food enthusiasts making their way to the desert, I’ve compiled this comprehensive guide filled with insider tips and tricks to ensure you have the most delicious and memorable Coachella foodie experience possible.
Below, I’ll dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about dining at Coachella, share essential advice for navigating the extensive options, and highlight some of my personal favorite vendors and culinary discoveries from past festivals. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey!
The Ultimate Coachella Food Experience: A Culinary Journey Through the Festival
Coachella has truly become a paradise for food lovers, boasting an incredible array of food and drink vendors that cater to every craving imaginable. From long-standing festival favorites that have achieved legendary status to innovative newcomers pushing culinary boundaries, there’s always something exciting to discover. You’ll find timeless Coachella staples that festival-goers return for year after year, alongside trendy, ‘grammable delights perfect for sharing on social media.
Take, for instance, the quintessential Coachella experience of indulging in a slice of Spicy Pie – a tradition for many. This classic remains a cornerstone of the festival’s culinary identity, known for its generous portions and satisfying flavors, making it a go-to choice when hunger strikes between sets.
Beyond the classics, Coachella continuously welcomes fresh and exciting vendors that capture the essence of modern culinary trends. A prime example is After’s Ice Cream, renowned for its inventive flavors and visually stunning presentations that are as delicious as they are photograph-worthy.
During my last visit, After’s even unveiled a special “Light Show” flavor, crafted exclusively for Coachella attendees. This bespoke creation provided not only a delightful treat for the palate but also a much-needed, refreshing escape from the desert heat, perfectly embodying the festival spirit.
While the Coachella food vendor lineup evolves each year, introducing new and exciting options, a core group of beloved establishments are considered “usuals,” consistently returning to serve their loyal festival fanbase. This mix of returning favorites and fresh faces ensures that every year offers both comfort and discovery for eager foodies.
The culinary landscape at Coachella is incredibly diverse, categorized to help attendees easily navigate their choices. You’ll find an abundance of options within each popular food category, ensuring that whether you’re craving something savory, sweet, or uniquely adventurous, your desires will be met. To give you a taste of the variety, here are some standout examples of food vendors from a past festival year (2019), showcasing the caliber and breadth of options available:
Featured Coachella Food Vendors: A Snapshot of Culinary Delights
From gourmet interpretations of classic comfort foods to international street food, Coachella’s vendor list is meticulously curated to offer an unparalleled dining experience. Here’s a closer look at some popular categories and the vendors that made them shine:
Coachella Pizza: Slices of Heaven and More
Pizza is a festival staple, perfect for quick refueling between shows. Coachella elevates this classic with a selection of top-tier pizzerias, each bringing their unique flair to the desert:
- Spicy Pie: The legendary, oversized slices that are a Coachella rite of passage.
- 800 Degrees: Known for their Neapolitan-style pizzas, cooked to perfection in a scorching hot oven.
- Pizzanista: Offering creative toppings and classic pies with a punk rock attitude.
- Nana Lu (pizza bagels): A unique twist on a beloved snack, perfect for a quick bite.
- Pizza By Round 2: Delivering satisfying, crowd-pleasing pizzas.
- The Rose Venice (VIP): An upscale option offering gourmet pizzas within the exclusive VIP area.
Coachella Ice Cream: Cooling Treats for Sunny Days
When the desert heat gets intense, nothing beats a refreshing ice cream. Coachella features some of the most innovative and delightful ice cream vendors:
- After’s Ice Cream: Famous for their ‘Milky Bun’ ice cream sandwiches and imaginative flavors.
- Salt & Straw: Gourmet ice cream with incredibly unique and often surprising flavor combinations.
- Van Leeuwen: Artisanal ice cream, including a range of popular vegan options.
- Good Time’s Ice Cream: Offering classic and creative scoops that bring joy.
- Ridges (churro ice cream sundaes): An irresistible fusion of warm churros and cold ice cream – pure indulgence.
Coachella Tacos: A Taste of California’s Best
Tacos are a staple of Southern California cuisine, and Coachella brings some of the best taquerias to the festival grounds:
- Trejo’s Tacos: Danny Trejo’s popular spot offering hearty and flavorful tacos.
- Kogi Taco’s: The pioneers of Korean BBQ tacos, a fusion favorite.
- Madre (VIP): Authentic Oaxacan cuisine and mezcal, available in the exclusive VIP area.
- Seabirds: A celebrated vegan eatery, serving up delicious plant-based tacos.
- Tacos 1986 (VIP): Tijuana-style tacos known for their authentic taste and vibrant flavors.
- Tacos Lobos: Crafting delicious tacos with fresh ingredients and innovative fillings.
Coachella Burgers: Classic Comfort, Elevated
For those craving a juicy burger, Coachella offers a fantastic selection, from cult favorites to gourmet creations:
- Top Round: Specializing in slow-roasted beef sandwiches and classic American fare.
- Shake Shack: Beloved for its ShackBurger, crinkle-cut fries, and creamy shakes.
- Love Hour (VIP): Serving up highly sought-after, smash-style burgers in the VIP section.
- Hawkin’s House of Burgers: A legendary LA institution bringing its famous, no-frills burgers to the desert.
Healthy Coachella Food: Nourishing Options for Mind and Body
Staying energized and feeling good is crucial for a multi-day festival. Coachella understands this, offering a growing number of healthy and wholesome options:
- Sweetfin Poke: Fresh and customizable poke bowls, packed with flavor and nutrients.
- Wolf (VIP): Offering sophisticated, farm-to-table dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- Pressed Juicery: Cold-pressed juices and healthy snacks to keep you revitalized.
- Backyard Bowls (VIP): Acai bowls and other superfood creations, perfect for a refreshing boost.
- Me’ze (VIP): Mediterranean-inspired dishes, offering light yet satisfying meals.
- Vegatinos: Delicious vegan Mexican street food that satisfies without the guilt.
Other Must-Have Coachella Food: Unique and Irresistible Bites
Beyond the main categories, Coachella surprises and delights with a variety of other extraordinary culinary experiences that you simply can’t miss:
- Beer Belly (wings & deep-fried Oreos): Indulge in savory wings or decadent deep-fried Oreos for a true festival treat.
- PB&J: A gourmet take on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, comfort food redefined.
- Konbi: Famous for their impeccably crafted Japanese-style sandos.
- Fuku: David Chang’s fried chicken joint, offering spicy and crispy delights.
- Wingman Kitchen: Specializing in a variety of delicious chicken wings with diverse sauces.
Elevating Your Palate: The Exclusive Coachella VIP Food Experience
A common question among festival-goers is, “Are Coachella VIP passes truly worth the investment?” For a dedicated foodie like myself, the answer is a resounding yes! The VIP experience at Coachella extends far beyond better viewing areas or shorter lines; it unlocks a superior culinary dimension that can transform your entire festival journey.
One of the most significant advantages of a VIP pass is the exclusive access to elevated dining options, including legitimate sit-down restaurants that offer a much-needed respite from the bustling crowds and intense desert sun. These unique dining opportunities provide a moment of calm and luxury amidst the high energy of the festival.
In recent years, Gwen, the acclaimed LA restaurant by chefs Curtis Stone and Luke Stone, has graced the main VIP area with an exquisitely charming pop-up. This setup includes a stylish bar where you can effortlessly grab delectable bites from their curated menu, perfect for a sophisticated snack or pre-dinner appetizer.
Alternatively, you can make reservations for a proper sit-down dinner, an experience we chose to kick off our first evening at Coachella. This particular day was exceptionally hot, with temperatures soaring around 100°F. Being able to escape the heat and enjoy a leisurely meal in the shaded comfort of Gwen was an absolute godsend, offering a luxurious break from the festival’s relentless pace.
Gwen’s team understands the rigors of a festival day. Recognizing that guests have likely spent hours under the sun, feeling dusty and sweaty, they proactively offered us cold, wet towels and a refreshing herbal spray. This thoughtful gesture provided immediate relief and set a wonderfully serene tone for the beginning of our dinner. It was a testament to the elevated service that comes with the VIP experience.
Having the opportunity to sit down and savor a real, gourmet meal before rejoining the crowds for the night’s performances proved absolutely crucial for our endurance. It provided the necessary energy and mental reset to fully enjoy the remaining hours of the festival.
From Gwen’s exquisite pre-fixe menu, the Signature Parfait stood out as an undeniable favorite. The pâté was remarkably rich and lusciously creamy, offering a truly decadent starter that perfectly prepared our palates for the courses to follow.
As for the entrées, the grilled shrimp skewers were nothing short of breathtaking. They were cooked to absolute perfection, exhibiting a delightful char while remaining incredibly tender and succulent. The seasoning was spot-on, making each bite an explosion of flavor that left us utterly impressed.
All the dessert options were thoughtfully crafted to be on the lighter side, a welcome choice after a rich meal and before resuming a night of dancing. My companions opted for the elegant chocolate mousse, while I thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant berry tart. Both were exceptional, providing a satisfying sweetness without leaving us feeling too heavy to dash to the next captivating concert. It was the perfect finale to a superb dining experience.
The Rose Garden VIP section presents yet another fantastic sit-down dining opportunity: an exquisite hand roll bar. Unlike Gwen, this venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning you queue up until seats become available. We were fortunate to only wait about 15 minutes, but during peak hours, the line stretched for what looked like over an hour, a testament to its popularity.
This hand roll bar proved to be one of the best value dining experiences at Coachella. For just $25, we received five meticulously crafted hand rolls, each bursting with fresh ingredients. This substantial offering left us feeling completely full and immensely satisfied, making it a highly recommended stop for any VIP foodie.
Our final sit-down meal at Coachella, hosted by Outstanding in the Field, was undeniably the most opulent and unique culinary event of our festival experience. For those unfamiliar, Outstanding in the Field creates extraordinary family-style dinners in breathtaking, often unexpected, locations. I recall a particularly enchanting event in California at a “Secret Beach Cove,” where the dining table was set so close to the shoreline that as the tide rolled in, guests’ feet were gently caressed by the water. Such experiences are truly incredible!
At Coachella, Outstanding in the Field sets up its magnificent tables within the serene environment of the VIP Rose Garden. What makes this experience even more appealing is that, unlike the Gwen pop-up, you don’t necessarily need a VIP pass to book a dinner here. If you hold a General Admission (GA) ticket, your dinner reservation comes with the fantastic added bonus of granting you full-day access to the exclusive Rose Garden area on the day of your dinner, allowing you to enjoy this tranquil space before your meal.
Each night of Coachella, a different renowned chef, typically from the vibrant culinary scene of Los Angeles, curates and prepares the multi-course dinner. We chose to attend on Sunday night, where Chef Jason Neroni of The Rose Venice showcased his exceptional talent. The meal comprised three beautifully presented sit-down courses, culminating in a delightful dessert handed to us as we departed. The $250 price tag for this unforgettable experience also included generous wine pairings and expertly crafted cocktails. For those who appreciate fine beverages, this is particularly exciting, as the pours are genuinely continuous and abundant.
The communal, family-style seating arrangement fostered a wonderfully convivial atmosphere. We found ourselves seated next to incredibly friendly couples, making it a delightful way to meet new people and share stories amidst the festival’s energy. Near the conclusion of the dinner, two of the dedicated farmers who cultivated the exquisite vegetables for our meal made their rounds, wine glasses in hand, to share insights about their farm and sustainable practices. This personal touch added another layer of appreciation to the meal, creating a truly cool and memorable experience.
The VIP section at Coachella consistently offers a broader spectrum of gourmet food options beyond just these premier sit-down restaurants. For instance, during the last festival, acclaimed Los Angeles hotspots like Wolf, Madre, Playa Provisions, and Freedman’s were exclusively available within the VIP areas, providing an elite taste of LA’s culinary scene. Furthermore, many of the same popular vendors found in the GA area also have stands in VIP, but with the distinct advantage of significantly shorter lines due to the reduced crowd density, making for a much more relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
Coachella Drinks: Quenching Your Thirst in the Desert
Staying hydrated and refreshed is paramount at Coachella, and the festival delivers with an extensive selection of drink options to suit every preference: from crisp beers and creative cocktails to essential caffeinated boosts and healthy concoctions. Upon entering the festival on that scorching Friday afternoon, parched from the long walk, we were absolutely thrilled to immediately spot the GT’s Kombucha booth – a true oasis.
They featured a special “Black Magic” flavor of Kombucha, crafted exclusively for Coachella attendees. As devoted GT’s fans, I was incredibly eager to try this unique blend. It proved to be so delicious and invigorating that we found ourselves returning for it multiple times throughout the weekend, a testament to its refreshing qualities. Beyond this special offering, GT’s also operates a massive Kombucha Bar in the GA area, boasting over 20 diverse flavors. They even have a “Kombucha Sommelier” on-site, ready to guide you through the selection and help you find your perfect brew!
For those of us who are “seasoned” festival-goers (read: in our early 30s and beyond), a consistent dose of caffeine is an absolute necessity to power through the long days and nights at Coachella. Coffee options are readily available in both the GA and VIP sections, though be forewarned: the lines in GA were noticeably longer throughout the entire weekend. Peet’s Coffee also had a significant presence, serving up their invigorating nitro cold brew from their dedicated tap room.
As someone who can be a bit sensitive to caffeine and certainly wanted to avoid any concert-induced panic attacks amidst 100,000 people, I was genuinely relieved and delighted to discover several Matcha Bar stands strategically placed across the festival grounds. Matcha offers a smoother, more sustained energy boost without the jitters, making it an ideal choice for maintaining stamina.
I kick-started each day with a wonderfully refreshing Matcha Lemonade (pictured above on the left), providing a zesty and energizing beginning. My friend Janette, on the other hand, favored a soothing Matcha Latte made with almond milk (pictured right). Both were excellent choices to maintain our energy levels. Additionally, Milk Box Tea was also on-site, serving up their delightful range of boba tea drinks, adding another fun and flavorful option to the festival’s diverse beverage landscape.
Most attendees at Coachella are looking to unwind and have an incredible time, and for many, this involves enjoying a few beers or cocktails. Coachella offers an abundance of both, but with a key difference from many other music festivals: alcoholic beverages can only be consumed within designated, clearly marked sections. This policy helps maintain a safer and more enjoyable environment for everyone.
Throughout the festival grounds, numerous bars served classic Heineken on tap, a popular choice for many. However, for those seeking a more adventurous or curated selection, the “Craft Beer Barn” is the ultimate destination. This specialized area boasts an impressive variety of beverages, including a wide range of unique IPAs, refreshing sours, rich barrel-aged beers, crisp ciders, and even innovative hard kombuchas. It’s a true haven for craft beverage enthusiasts.
The VIP section featured an absolutely delightful Gin & Tonic bar, where our friend Lindsey practically set up permanent residence. She ordered both of the beautifully crafted cocktails pictured above and below (plus many, many more that weren’t captured!) and couldn’t stop raving about their quality and refreshing taste. Elsewhere across the grounds, other bars were busy serving up vibrant tropical Moscow mules, classic margaritas, and energizing Red Bull mixed drinks, ensuring there was a spirited option for every taste.
If beer or traditional cocktails aren’t quite your preference, Coachella still has you covered with a variety of other enticing options. In the VIP area, a “Rosé All Day” vendor catered to wine lovers. Additionally, Cupcake Vineyards had multiple stands scattered across the site, serving up wonderfully refreshing wine slushies and creative wine popsicles, often served directly in cups of sparkling wine for an extra touch of festivity.
We absolutely adored the Watermelon Lemonade Popsicle served submerged in Sparkling Rosé. It was a triumph – truly a “Yasss, queen!” moment of pure, refreshing bliss, perfectly suited for the vibrant Coachella atmosphere.
Coachella Food Prices: Budgeting for Your Festival Feasts
As with any major festival, it’s wise to anticipate premium pricing for food and drinks at Coachella. While the quality and selection are high, the convenience and exclusivity come with a cost. To help you budget for your culinary adventures, here’s an idea of typical prices you might encounter:
For a quick bite, individual pizza slices often hover around $9. If you’re feeding a hungry group, vendors like Pizzanista offer entire pies, which is a fantastic option for sharing. However, be prepared to invest: an 18-inch pepperoni pizza, for example, can set you back approximately $65. This larger investment can still be cost-effective when split among several friends.
Sweet treats also reflect festival pricing. My double-scoop cone from After’s Ice Cream cost $14, while a single, fruity pebbles churro at Ridges was about $7. For beverages, most cocktails typically ranged from $14-$16, and beers generally averaged between $10-$15. While these prices are higher than what you might find outside the festival grounds, they are fairly standard for major events and reflect the unique, curated experience Coachella offers.
Coachella Food to Bring: Smart Planning for Off-Festival Meals
While you won’t be able to bring outside food directly into the festival grounds (with strict security checks in place), strategic planning for your meals at your hotel or Airbnb is a brilliant way to save money, ensure you have easy access to preferred foods, and manage specific dietary needs. Stocking up on breakfast essentials and late-night snacks is a game-changer for enhancing your overall festival experience.
Knowing that we wouldn’t be arriving at the festival until the afternoon each day, we made sure to load up on breakfast staples. Our provisions included bagels, bacon, and eggs, ensuring a hearty start to the day. On Saturday morning, I planned to assemble a vibrant fruit & yogurt board. After a night of dancing and exploring, I knew we’d be physically exhausted and in desperate need of a hydrating breakfast packed with essential Vitamin C.
This board was quick and effortless to throw together in the morning, allowing us to leisurely enjoy it by the pool, recovering like happy zombies. And of course, no pre-festival brunch is complete without a little rosé. Given that Virgil Abloh’s DJ set was scheduled for that day, it was only fitting to celebrate by uncorking a bottle of his exquisite Moet & Chandon collaboration champagne, adding a touch of luxury to our morning ritual.
Other crucial provisions we brought along included quesadilla ingredients for those inevitable late-night cravings after the festival, along with bags of chips and trail mix for easy snacking. Equally important was stocking up on plenty of mineral water (hydration is absolutely non-negotiable in the desert!), Gatorade for electrolyte replenishment, beer for casual evening enjoyment, and more champagne for celebratory moments. Thoughtful provisioning outside the festival gates is key to a comfortable and sustainable Coachella experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coachella Food & Drinks
Navigating the culinary landscape of a massive festival like Coachella can bring up many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries to help you plan your food and drink strategy effectively:
Is Coachella food free or included with my ticket?
No, unfortunately, Coachella food is not free, nor is it included as part of your festival ticket. All food and drink items from vendors within the festival grounds must be purchased separately. This leads us directly to our next important question regarding budgeting for your festival meals.
How much does Coachella food typically cost?
Coachella food can be quite expensive, reflecting the premium pricing common at large-scale events. Prices vary significantly between vendors and types of items, but to give you an idea from 2019: an 18-inch pizza from Pizzanista was priced around $65 (or $9 for a single slice), and a double scoop of After’s Ice Cream cost $14. Cocktails generally ranged from $14-$16, and beers were typically $10-$15. It’s advisable to factor these higher prices into your overall festival budget.
Can you bring food or drinks inside the Coachella festival grounds?
No, festival policy strictly prohibits bringing outside food or drinks (including alcoholic beverages) into the main Coachella festival grounds. Security checks are thorough to enforce this rule. However, if you are camping at Coachella, you are generally allowed to bring food and drinks (with specific restrictions on alcohol and glass containers) into the designated camping areas for your convenience.
Can you bring water into Coachella?
While you cannot bring pre-filled water bottles into Coachella, you are absolutely encouraged to bring an empty reusable water bottle (non-metal) or a Camelbak. The festival provides numerous free water refilling stations scattered throughout the grounds, allowing you to stay hydrated without extra cost. Additionally, bottled water is available for purchase from vendors and, impressively, has maintained the same price since 1999 – just $2.