Foodies and chefs from around the world converged on South Beach this past weekend for the annual South Beach Wine and Food Festival. Thousands took to the sandy beaches to taste the delectable bites the world’s greatest chefs had to offer. The biggest names in the food industry came out to SoFlo for the annual event, including Paula Deen, Bobby Flay, Guy Fieri, Rachel Ray, and more. This year’s event had something for everyone, and for every budget.
Guests were able to watch chefs battle it out head to head at several events, like Burger Bash, where Miami’s own Pincho Factory won the battle for People’s Choice Award for Best Burger. If a duo among chefs wasn’t your cup of tea, sit back and enjoy a more leisure experience by sampling some of the greatest food around the country at events like the Grand Tasting Village. If you were looking for something a little more laid back, and zen, the Buddhas and Bellinis event was for you – featuring live music, yoga and of course – bellinis.
Several events were held for the night owls, as well. Tacos After Dark was sure to hit the spot after a long day at work. Or for you chocoholics (such as myself), the Death by Chocolate event was the place to be!
The Barilla Interactive Dinner at the Biltmore Hotel was for those looking for something a little more intimate. A small dinner, featuring a live cooking demo gave you a first-hand look at how to cook like the pros, with pro-boxer turned chef, Marc Randazzo, owner of Randazzo’s in Coral Gables.
If you wanted to impress your friends with your extensive knowledge on fine wines, SOBEWFF had several seminars, giving you the opportunity to learn the tips and tricks to be the sommelier among your group of friends and family.
What’s an event in SoFlo without some brunch?! Several brunches were held throughout the weekend, including “A Perfect Pairing: A Brunch” hosted by celebrity chef, Giada De Laurentiis.
Goya’s “Swine and Wine” was back and better than ever this year – giving guests the opportunity to enjoy some delicious pork, as well as pairing it with a delicious glass of vino – satisfying the palate of all those who attended.
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If you couldn’t get rid of the kids for a couple of days, that’s fine (… maybe). The Fun and Fit event at Jungle Island offered fun, fitness and learning for the whole family.
The fabulous weekend of food ended with The Food Network’s Andrew Zimmern hosting “Best of the Munchies: People’s Choice Food Awards.”
It’s safe to say a good time was had by all who attended this year’s South Beach Wine and Food Festival. It’s also safe to say that everyone will be flocking to the gym to burn off those calories that were consumed from all the delicious food and yummy cocktails. As for me, I’ll be sitting at my desk, counting down the days until next year’s SOBEWFF.
