Some of the most inventive culinary experiences happen not in Michelin-starred restaurants or reservation-only cocktail lounges but at street fairs, where local vendors create casual eats in the open air — all without the luxury of a full kitchen. Limited menus make these food truck chefs masters of their go-to ingredients, resulting in maximum flavor and cult followings.
Here, we present eight foodie favorites to seek out at VillageFest and The Street Fair at College of the Desert.
Palm Springs VillageFest
Every Thursday in downtown Palm Springs, open 6–10 p.m. October through May and 7–10 p.m. June through September. Click here for details.
Butter Sugar Love
Jessica Karcher runs a bakery inspired by her grandmother Edith’s cherished family recipes. A fan favorite is the Cowboy cookie — an irresistible blend of oatmeal, butter, sugar, and semisweet chocolate. Other popular choices include the classic chocolate chip and snickerdoodle, all baked to buttery brown perfection with soft centers and crisp edges.
Jessica Karcher at Butter Sugar Love
Elowtito’s
Elowtito’s
This truck is known for its bold, flavorful street corn and indulgent loaded surf-and-turf baked potatoes. The street corn gets topped with a blend of creamy, tangy toppings, while the surf-and-turf potatoes are generously filled with juicy steak and shrimp for a satisfying meal that’s big enough to share — and a great value for the price.
Julian Food Pitas
Expect a long line at Julian Food Pitas, but rest assured the Mediterranean menu is worth the wait. Top picks include the beef and chicken shawarma wraps, served with fresh toppings. A variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, including tabbouleh, grape leaves, falafel, hummus, and baba ghanoush, round out the menu.
El Reaper Hot Chicken
The popular vendor serves generous portions of hot chicken with nine spice levels, from mild to “reaper.” The Hot Cheeto variety is a fan favorite. In addition to tender chicken, they dole out smash burgers, wraps, loaded fries, side salads, and slaw. Come hungry!
El Reaper Hot Chicken
58 Hester Coffee
The Street Fair at College of the Desert
Every Saturday and Sunday at the Palm Desert campus, open 8 a.m.–2 p.m. October through May and 8 a.m. to noon June and September. Closed July and August. Click here for details.
58 Hester Coffee
This inventive coffee and tea spot offers a range of creative beverages, including a desert-inspired vanilla-date latte and seasonal favorites like a spicy mocha with cardamom and cinnamon. Matcha lovers will enjoy the Koji matcha paired with Japanese black sugar for a rich, flavorful twist.
Kettle Corn
Who can resist classic kettle corn? This stand vends a fantastic selection: traditional, caramel, cheddar cheese, and the signature Chicago Mix, a craveable combination of sweet caramel and savory cheese. With generous portions, you can snag a large bag for just $12 — great to share or savor solo.
Kettle Corn
Monkey Business Café
Noble Yeast Pizza
Known for their classic margherita and meat lover’s pies, these wood-fire pizza specialists, once a collaboration with Workshop Kitchen + Bar, have branched out with their own brand. The breakfast calzone is a worthy choice at this morning street fair; it’s loaded with chorizo, egg, Monterey Jack cheese, and pickled chilies.
Monkey Business Café
A delicious variety of crêpes star on the menu at Monkey Business Café. For something sweet, choose from toppings like strawberry, blueberry, and Nutella. Savory varieties are filled with ingredients such as cheese, turkey, and basil. For a crisp and fluffy alternative, try the Belgian waffle with whipped cream and syrup.
