NYC Food Cart Vendors Face Rising Costs in 2026

For 35 years, Elpida Vasiliadis, known as the Souvlaki Lady, has served Greek street food in Astoria, Queens. However, escalating costs for meat, vegetables, fuel, and other essentials are making it increasingly difficult to keep her food cart operational.

In 2026, the challenges faced by food cart vendors like Vasiliadis highlight a broader economic strain impacting small businesses in New York City. The rising operational expenses put a significant burden on these entrepreneurs, many of whom have been serving their communities for decades.