Why the Sold-Out Oregon Food & Wine Festival’s NYC Debut is a Game Changer

The shift back to analog gatherings is reshaping food and wine events, as exemplified by the AAPI Food & Wine Festival. Founded by Lois Cho, who had no prior festival experience, the event has sold out in Oregon for three consecutive years and is now expanding to New York City. The festival, which includes renowned chefs and sommeliers, offers a unique connection that attendees crave — something beyond the digital noise.

Cho’s journey began when she helped her husband with his wine business, which has grown significantly since its launch in 2020. The festival was born from a simple potluck idea, but with a broad invitation, it blossomed into a major event in a matter of months, demonstrating the power of genuine connections.

This rise in interest in in-person events comes amidst rising feelings of loneliness among younger generations, as reflected in a recent study showing that a high percentage of Gen Z and Millennials are eager to engage more in social gatherings. The festival’s approach aligns with this sentiment, focusing on emotional experiences rather than simply curated content.

Cho recognized a lack of educational resources for Asian American restaurateurs and built programming to fill this gap, offering Wine 101 sessions to help those eager to learn. Her aim is for the AAPI Food & Wine Festival to serve as a space for shared stories, bridging cultures, and fostering community ties.

As the festival heads to New York City from March 19 to 21, it promises to create meaningful connections, emphasizing the importance of presence over mere participation in a world increasingly craving authenticity. Events planned include various dinners and tastings led by prestigious culinary teams, further underscoring its commitment to inclusiveness and cultural celebration.

Tickets for the NYC festival are available through OpenTable Experiences, where the central objective remains clear: foster AAPI voices in food and wine while connecting communities up and down the coast.

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!