The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival – or SOBEWFF, for short – is an A-listers coven of convivial food experiences over five days. The secret code to join this community of bonvivants? You must love eating as much as they do — and, depending on the event, be willing to drop some serious cash. All that enthusiasm and money can buy you entry into the elegant Matador Room for a brunch hosted by two Michelin star recipient Jean-Georges Vongerichten, or a tribute dinner honoring Italian chef Massimo Bottura. Not to alarm you, but your neighbor at the table might be Eva Longoria.
But let’s take a step back for a second. The mission of SOBEWFF is to enhance the education of those who dream of joining the hospitality industry. For more than 1200 students and volunteers, SOBEWFF is a chance to gain real-world experience, working with some of the most renowned professionals, celebrity chefs and event organizers from around the globe. Besides, the festival donates all of its proceeds to the Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and has raised more than over $37 million in the past two decades.
Luckily, not all the events are as exclusive as they sound. If you’re just here to have a good time, secure your ticket for FoodieCon to meet some of social media’s most notable food personalities while grabbing a bite (the kickoff happy hour is hosted by Neil Patrick Harris). The Pasta Queen and Nick DiGiovanni were among the guests of past editions, where you could dip pita chips in an Instagram-approved pink hummus, enjoy a charcuterie board with meat roses made out of ham or salami, or taste a grilled pineapple slice. Looking for some good spirits? Pair your experience with a beer-making masterclass at the historic Biscayne Bay Brewing in Downtown Miami, and try samples of Miami Pale Ale and Marlins Lager.
The Specs
- Every year the South Beach Wine & Food Festival draws over 65,000 visitors to South Florida.
- Ticket prices depend on the type of program you attend, ranging between $40 to $600.
- And since you are there, take a look at our Fifty Grande guide to the best beaches in Miami. And here‘s our guide to the city.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to The South Beach Wine & Food Festival?
The closest international airport to get to Miami Beach is Miami International Airport.
It’s my first time attending the festival. What can I expect?
The four-day festival packs in a lot. There are intimate dinners, wine seminars, tastings, master classes, Food Network star appearances and signature events — like Burger Bash — as well as new events like Noche Cubana. Visit sobewff.org for more info.
Is the festival family-friendly?
The festival is for those 21 and older. However, some events are specifically designed for families.
Can I bring my dog to the festival?
Pets are not allowed. Only certified service animals are permitted inside.
Where is the foodie fest located?
All festival events are held in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
How far is it from South Beach to Brickell?
Brickell is just 8 miles away.
How many chefs are expected to attend the four-day festival?
More than 500 chefs and wine and spirit producers are expected.
When is Burger Bash?
The festival’s Burger Bash goes down on Thursday, Feb. 22, SOBE’s first night.
When is the Tasting Village happening?
Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village takes place Saturday, Feb. 24, and Sunday, Feb 25.
When does the annual Tribute Dinner take place?
The Tribute Dinner, part of The New York Times Dinner Series, is set for Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel and will honor chef Massimo Bottura.
I use Capital One. Can I get early access to tickets?
Capital One cardholders were able to purchase tickets at 9 a.m. Oct. 30. General tickets went on sale at 9 a.m. Nov. 6.
Which events will be held at the Ritz Carlton this year?
Burger Bash, hosted by Rachael Ray, and Diners, Drive-ins and Dives Live, hosted by Guy Fieri and Tacos & Tequila, hosted by Aarón Sánchez, are among the events at the hotel.
Who are some of the other Food Network stars or notable names from the wine & spirits indsutry we can expect to see at the festival?
Besides Rachael Ray, Guy Fieri, Aaron Sanchez, there will be hundreds. Some of them include Molly Yeh, Michelle Bernstein, David Martinez, Gio Gutierrez, Massimo Bottura, (Campari Group chairman) Luca Garavoglia, Bryan Voltaggio, Michael Voltaggio, Brooke Williamson, Tiffany Derry, Zac Young and many others.
Who receives the festival’s proceeds?
Net proceeds go to FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.