A Closer Look at the Star-Studded South Beach Wine & Food Festival

SOBEWFF is back February 22 to 25 in Miami

If you’re in Miami and are still debating your weekend plans, but want to take advantage of the perfect winter weather, might I suggest checking out the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF)?

Because seriously, what’s better than pairing the sunny and 60 degree weather with some of the country’s top chefs who are cooking up a storm alongside dozens of bartenders who are pouring delicious cocktails and glasses of wine that complement each bite?

Taking over South Beach and beyond from Thursday, February 22nd to Sunday, February 25, this star-studded extravaganza features over 100 events ranging from signature tent events to intimate dinners to a massive Grand Tasting Village and dozens of interactive chef demos and masterclasses.

“We’re counting the days until the Festival kicks off with Rachael Ray returning to host Burger Bash THIS Thursday!” says Lee Brian Schrager. “There’s still time to snag tickets to some of your favorite events. See you on the sands of South Beach!”

Those looking to attend one of the Festival’s signature tent events (aka the shining star events of the weekend), you can kick things off with Heinz® Burger Bash presented by Schweid & Sons® hosted by Rachael Ray on Thursday, February 22 from 7:30 to 10:30pm, where guests will indulge on burgers from nearly 40 different restaurants around the country with the chance to vote on their favorite — plus there’s free flowing drinks all night long. Another winner? Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives LIVE hosted by Guy Fieri taking place on Friday, February 23, 7:30 to 10:30pm. This event features over 30 chefs from all over the country who have been featured on the hit Food Network show over the years — from roadside diners to vintage drive-ins, and hidden gems.

Join Guy Fieri at this year’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives LIVE

Those who don’t want to head to South Beach can still get in on the action as there are a ton of events spread across the city. Head to Wynwood on Saturday night for Smorgasburg After Dark hosted by Amanda Freitag, Marc Murphy, and Robert Irvine featuring a special performance by Les Greene & The Swayzees.

Brunch it up on Sunday at Farmers Market Brunch presented by Violife® hosted by Michael Schwartz. Starting at noon in the Design District’s Jungle Plaza, James Beard Award-winner, Michael Schwartz, has curated a walk-around brunch highlighting local farmers featuring top chefs and farmers who are collaborating to create a delicious brunch menu using fresh, local ingredients.

Or close out the weekend with the Goya Foods’ Heritage Fire: Grand Finalè hosted by Chris Lilly and Fernando Desa on Sunday, February 25th from 5 to 8pm where over a dozen of chefs will be showcasing globally-inspired dishes using Heritage-breed proteins, artisan cheeses, and heirloom vegetables, with beverage pairings from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.

Grand Tasting Village at SOBEWFF

And of course, the event that started it all — the Grand Tasting Village that spans several city blocks right on the sand with celebrity chef demos, bites, tons of drinks, samples and swag, and an epic concert experience curated by David Grutman.

At Loews Miami Beach – the official Host Hotel of South Beach Wine & Food Festival – Bar Collins is launching a unique menu for the weekend, influenced by SOBEWFF. Included on the list are meals inspired by some of the Festival’s well-known signature occasions such as Burger Bash (a SoBe Guava Burger), Tribute Dinner (Spinach Gemelli), and Best of the Best (Octopus Carpaccio).

Bombay Sapphire-based Friends with Benefits accompanied by a spicy hamachi crudo

In terms of beverages, Bar Collins’ team will be creating custom-made drinks each paired with a specialty item. Key highlights involve the Carajillo Twist served with a lemon and pistachio cannoli, the Bombay Sapphire-based Friends with Benefits accompanied by a spicy hamachi crudo, and the Angel’s Envy Paper Plane presented with a mozzarella and melon skewer. Additionally, there’ll be rotating cocktail specials using Campari spirits (such as Aperol Spritz, Skyy Vodka espresso martini, among others) in tribute to Luca Garavoglia – Chairman of the Campari Group and an honoree at this year’s Tribute Dinner.

At Eden Roc Miami Beach, a cabana pop-up is occurring to celebrate the release of Moshi’s new Asian-inspired sparkling waters. The sparkling water line, introduced in January, is truly tempting. Available in Asian Pear & White Miso, White Peach & Yuzu, Fuji Apple & Concord Grape, and Honeydew Melon & Cream, this pop-up will be held from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, February 24th and Sunday, February 25th.

Those looking for a little late night fun, perhaps after one of the many Festival dinners or Saturday’s Signature Tacos & Tequila event, can make their way to The Edition for the 7th annual Ping Pong & Pizzas with legendary chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Play ping pong against the man himself or enjoy watching while feasting on wood-fired pizzas, such as Black Truffle, Spicy Chorizo, and Fresh Mozzarella & Basil. Plus there’s always delicious cocktails and an insane dessert spread. Tickets for this event are available on Eventbrite.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!