For many festival-goers, Outside Lands is as much about the food as the music. In its 10th year, there is one notable new addition that’s probably already on every culinary-minded attendee’s hit-list: Tartine Manufactory.
Supporting an East Bay eatery here is a great idea, but if you're looking for the absolute most delicious — and new, only-available-at-OSL — meal this weekend, look no further than Tartine Manufactory's hoagie. In my five years of covering Outside Lands, it’s the best thing I’ve tasted.
Like all things Tartine, this sandwich is deceivingly simple — and depends on fantastic bread. It’s stuffed with mortadella, provolone, herbs, mayo, lots of pickled vegetables, and even more olive oil. Take note: Outside Lands signage states Tartine’s amazing morning buns are only available in the VIP section. Thankfully, those signs are lying.
For new-to-the-fest, Oakland-based eats, Itani Ramen debuted a second, izakaya-style stand. There were rumors of the festival adding a Japan Lands section soon, and indeed, Itani is basically a trial run for the concept. There's no sake, but the fried chicken gyoza and, even better, kurobuta sausage with spicy mustard are great snacks to share. You can get three of each for $9.
Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with pizza and burritos for ease of eating on the run. Del Popolo, Mozzeria, Senior Sisig, and Curry Up Now are all good choices — and all have vegetarian options. I can’t vouch for Dabba’s “ethnic confusion burrito.”