Off the Grid is Back at Fort Mason for 2014

Off the Grid, the "roaming food extravaganza" is back at Fort Mason for 2014.  As in years past, it is a great event for families early in the night and the crowd skews younger throughout the night.  Let's review what is new and some tips for first timers.  



FYI - We went from 5:15 - 6:15 so I can't speak to the later wait times.

What is new this year?


More organized layout - The new layout is great.  There is a main entrance as well as a side entrance that are used to ensure alcohol does not leave the area.  Inside,  there is more seating and space in the center which results in easier flow around the trucks.

More trucks - The staff said there were 14 new trucks.  The additional options were all great and ensured reasonable wait times.  As always it is tough to decide.  I went with a great lobster roll from the Lobsta Truck.  My husband had some great beef brisket.  

A special thank you to the folks at Drewski's.  They have a great gourmet grilled cheese (and more) menu, but they happily made up a standard cheddar grilled cheese for the little guy.

Carnival games - There are a number of standard carnival games (Skee ball, etc...).  Our little one is still to young but this certainly adds another attraction for families.

Roaming Beer Vendor - The event has always offered beer and wine service.  There are now two separate wine and beer bars as well as a roaming vendor with a few beers on tap in his cart.

Tips for First Timers

1. Bring layers - This is the standard warning when coming to the city but good to remember since Fort Mason Center is on the water.
2. Cash or Credit is OK - Every truck we visited took credit card but all welcome cash too.
3. Earlier is better for families - As it gets later the event is still family friendly, but it is certainly a younger crowd that will be heading to the bar afterwards.
4. Divide and conquer - We found it is easiest to split up and find what we want to eat than meet up in the middle to sit and enjoy.
5. Bring Toys - If your kiddo requires entertainment, it is good to have some handy.  With all of the people it is not a great place for them to run around.

For more details including schedule and other locations check out http://offthegridsf.com/.  Now we wait for the Off the Grid picnic returns sometime in spring!