It’s that time of year again, when locals and food-lovers alike flock to the beach for something other than sunshine: The South Beach Wine and Food Festival. Beginning February 24, chefs from all over the world lead demos, host dinners and showcase their cooking. Though some will be excited to see Food Network headliners and big name celebrities, we’re looking forward to seeing local favorites flex their culinary muscles in new, exciting settings. Because most SBWFF events are sold out by now, we’ve compiled a list of ancillary dinners and events you’ll want to head to catch your favorite Design District chefs during this year’s festival.
Photo: MC Kitchen
Dinner With Bosh Marino Calagione
Last fall Dog Fish Head Brewery founder Sam Calagione and Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh brewed a special barbecue stout on air for the web series That’s Odd, Let’s Drink It! On Tuesday, February 23rd, curious minds will have the opportunity to sample the brew along with other Dog Fish varieties at a five-course, beer-paired dinner prepared by MC Kitchen Chef Dena Marino.
February 23, 7pm, $225 per person. 4141 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL. Reservations: 305-456-9948.
Photo: Mandolin Aegean Bistro
Miami Block Party
Just up down the street in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood you’ll find this foodie festival for a cause, which donates 100 percent of its proceeds to the Hunger Project, an organization committed to ending world hunger in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Chefs from throughout the city will be participating, including chef Roel Alcudia of Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Design District.
February 23, 6pm, 350 South Miami Avenue, Miami, FL. Tickets: eventbrite.com.
Photo: Harry's Pizzeria
Harry’s Beer Slam
Michael Schwartz’s The Genuine Hospitality Group warms up for the weekend’s big event by hosting a battle of the beer pairings, pitting Wynwood Brewing Co. against Biscayne Bay Brewing Co. in a three-course dining competition. Each brewer will pair creations with chef Bradley Herron menu that includes crispy pork belly and oxtail terrine. Full reign over Harry’s four taps over the next month is at stake.
February 23, 7pm, $75. 3918 North Miami Avenue. Tickets: brownpapertickets.com.
Photo: Grand Tasting Village
Goya Foods Grand Tasting Village
If you go to just one SBWFF event, this one should be it. It takes place on the sand inside several tents dubbed the grand tasting village and features food stations and cooking demos from most of the festival’s participating chefs. You’ll taste small plates prepared by mostly local chefs and wash it down with wine and spirits from around the country. Unlike most SBWFF, this one still has tickets available for purchase.
February 28 and 28, noon, $225. Grand Tasting Village, 13th Street and Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL. Tickets: sobefest.com.
