Are you a food lover? "Harlem Eat Up" festival kicks off Thursday

HARLEM (WABC) -- If you are a food lover, this is the weekend to be in Harlem. That is because the first ever "Harlem Eat Up" festival kicks off.

30 restaurants are participating, including Red Rooster, and Streetbird - Marcus Samuelson's two spots. He was inspired to open up in the Harlem community because of its history and culture.

Brian Washington-Palmer first opened a restaurant more than 10 years ago - La Incarnation. La Bodega 47 is its newest incarnation, and he is thrilled that the culinary scene has come this far. Along with it, he also lectures at the Studio Museum of Harlem - those cooking classes will be free, plus there are plenty of dinners with chefs from both Harlem and from out of town. There is also a food stroll through the neighborhood on Saturday.

Tickets are required for some events. The festival, which is sponsored by Citi, starts Thursday in Harlem.