First Place: Richmond Greek Festival

May 30 to June 2, 2013
greekfestival.com

Second Place: Broad Appétit

Third Place: Lebanese Food Festival

Now that it's 38 years old, the Richmond Greek Festival is lovingly embedded in Richmond's food event consciousness. It's big, neighborly, delicious and well-run, with a drive-through window for convenience. A vibrant slate of traditional music and dancing turns the near West End into a Greek village of diners and devotees for one late spring weekend each year. It supports Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, whose members have perfected a menu of gyros, calamari, pastries and other favorites. Much newer but making a profound impact downtown, Broad Appétit marks its sixth year June 2. More than 60 local chefs and kitchens pump out savories to sweets in every style imaginable, for $3 a plate. Local wines and beers, music and people-watching make the day particularly rich, and for many, a must-attend Sunday. It supports FeedMore hunger-relief programs. Another perennial favorite is the Lebanese Food Festival, which wrapped up last weekend at St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church. This event is a community picnic in the churchyard with scrumptious fare, family entertainment, and hospitality that wins yearly visits from fans.