March is one of the most exciting months for food events in NYC. As winter fades and spring approaches, New Yorkers head out to explore food festivals, pop-ups, and tasting events across the city. Whether you are a dedicated foodie or simply looking for a fun outing, these March food events deserve a spot on your calendar.

1. Chef’s Best at Rockefeller Center

Midtown Manhattan — Select Dates in March

This March, Dining at Rockefeller Center presents Chef’s Best, a one-of-a-kind dining series that brings together some of New York City’s most sought-after chefs for four exclusive Saturday night events.

The chefs behind Rockefeller Center’s restaurants Le Rock, NARO, Jupiter, and 5 Acres will each host a curated, one-night-only menu featuring signature dishes from across their acclaimed restaurant portfolios. Guests have the rare opportunity to taste dishes from some of the hardest reservations to score in NYC, all in one location. Seatings are offered throughout each evening, with reservations available exclusively on OpenTable.

Here is what to expect each week:

NARO

Saturday, March 14

For one night only, NARO joins forces with NA:EUN Hospitality’s Atoboy for a communal fried chicken feast. The menu highlights standout dishes from both restaurants, including Atoboy’s Uni Eggjjim and Squash Gangjung alongside NARO’s Cured Salmon, Prime Sirloin Steak with signature rice bowl, and Sujeongwa Granita. Guests can add banchan and caviar to elevate the experience.

Make a reservation.

Jupiter

Saturday, March 28

Jess Shadbolt, Clare de Boer, and Annie Shi, the team behind Jupiter, close out the series with a showcase of standout dishes from their downtown restaurant King, which has been repeatedly named one of the top restaurants in New York City by The New York Times. The evening also features favorites from Jupiter, bringing downtown flavor to Rockefeller Center.

Make a reservation.

2. NYC Winter Wine & Food Festival

March 7 | 630 SECOND, Midtown Manhattan

Wine lovers can kick off March at the 14th Annual NYC Winter Wine & Food Festival, produced by Crush Wine Experiences. This long-running tasting event takes place at 630 SECOND in Midtown and features a sommelier-curated selection of more than 100 wines from regions around the world.

Guests can sample reds, whites, and sparkling wines from countries including France, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, South Africa, and Chile, alongside standout selections from New York State wineries. Many producers are on site, giving attendees the opportunity to meet winemakers and learn more about their bottles.

In addition to wine tastings, guests can enjoy bites from artisan food makers, with select food vendors offering small plates for purchase. General admission includes unlimited wine tastings during your session and a souvenir tasting glass.

For those looking for a more elevated experience, a VIP Wine Bar Lounge offers access to a private tasting area featuring fine wines from regions such as Champagne, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Barolo, Napa Valley, and Tuscany, paired with artisan cheeses and specialty bites.

The event runs in timed sessions from 1 pm to 8 pm and is open to guests 21 and older.

3. Smorgasburg

Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Manhattan locations — Returns April 2026

Smorgasburg is the event that unofficially kicks off outdoor eating season in New York City. When it returns each spring, thousands of New Yorkers flock to the waterfront in Williamsburg to sample dishes from dozens of rotating food vendors.

Founded by the team behind Brooklyn Flea, Smorgasburg has grown into one of the largest weekly open-air food markets in the country. Expect everything from inventive street food and slow-smoked BBQ to globally inspired comfort dishes and over-the-top desserts that regularly go viral.

Vendors change throughout the season, which keeps the experience fresh even for repeat visitors. With skyline views, communal picnic tables, and a lively weekend atmosphere, it remains one of the best food events NYC offers for casual grazing and group outings.

Smorgasburg will be back in April (exact date TBD) and typically runs on weekends through fall, with locations in Williamsburg and Manhattan.

4. Queens Night Market

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens — Returns April 2026

Queens Night Market celebrates the incredible cultural diversity that defines Queens and, by extension, New York City itself. Held in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, this evening market features independent food vendors serving cuisine from around the world.

From Tibetan momos to Romanian chimney cakes and West African stews, the market spotlights small businesses and first-time entrepreneurs. A signature part of its appeal is affordability, with many dishes priced lower than typical festival fare.

The market draws families, serious foodies, and curious New Yorkers looking to explore global flavors in one place. With live performances and a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere, it stands out as one of the most inclusive and culturally rich food events in NYC each spring.

Queens Night Market typically opens in April and runs on select Saturday evenings. Many weekends also feature live music, adding to the festive outdoor atmosphere.

5. Japan Fes

Multiple Locations Across Manhattan and Brooklyn — Starting March 28 in the East Village

Japan Fes brings large-scale Japanese street food festivals to neighborhoods across Manhattan and Brooklyn throughout the spring. Events are often held in areas like the East Village, Upper West Side, and Chelsea, transforming city blocks into vibrant outdoor markets.

Vendors specialize in classic Japanese festival fare, including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, yakitori, ramen, matcha desserts, and specialty sweets rarely found outside Japan. Many of the participating businesses are small, independently owned restaurants and pop-ups from across NYC.

With multiple events across different boroughs, Japan Fes offers plenty of opportunities to attend. Combining the energy of a street fair with curated culinary experiences, it’s one of the most exciting recurring food events in New York City each spring.

Planning Your March Food Calendar in NYC

From chef-driven dinners in Midtown to outdoor markets in Brooklyn, pop-ups in Manhattan, and cultural celebrations in Queens and Chinatown, spring is packed with food events in New York City.

Whether you’re sampling street fair favorites, catching live music while exploring a new borough, or chasing a standout foodie experience, these events showcase the flavors and diversity that make NYC one of the best food destinations in the world.