Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival Returns - A Full Week Of Chef Collaborations, Classes And Signature Events

Samuelsson leads a celebrity lineup featuring first-time festival guests Bobby Hicks and Hannah Flora, alongside returning favorites Jason Smith, Nancy Fuller and Eddie Jackson. Throughout the week, nationally recognized talent will join South Florida chefs for collaborative dinners, interactive demonstrations and signature waterfront events.

“People have been discovering that Greater Fort Lauderdale has so much more to offer beyond our beaches, and our culinary scene is a big part of that story,” said Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival puts Broward County’s restaurants, chefs and neighborhoods on a national stage while giving visitors another reason to experience our destination. It’s the kind of event that brings people here, gets them exploring and leaves them wanting to come back.”

The Dining Series Presented by PNC Bank opens at Heritage with Chef Rino Cerbone and Macchialina’s Chef Mike Pirolo. Additional collaborations include Ukiah’s Michael Lewis with The Wolf of Tacos’ Eduardo Lara; Union Kitchen & Bar’s Christie Tenaud with Barolo Cucina D’Autore’s Manuella Maffezzoli; and Sidewalk Diner’s Walter Navarro with Bicyclette Cookshop’s Kayla Pfeiffer. Other highlights include Midwest Nice at TRP Taste, a late-night omakase at MISO, a preview of the upcoming Pezka restaurant, dim sum at Temple Street Eatery and The Farmer, The Chef and The Vintner at Sunness Supper Club.

“Supporting the communities where we live and work is an important part of who we are at PNC,” said Cressman Bronson, PNC regional president for Southeast Florida. “We’re proud to continue our partnership with the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival, which brings our community together to celebrate local talent and give back to children and families through Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.”

The festival’s 14 classes and seminars offer opportunities to learn directly from chefs, sommeliers and beverage professionals. Highlights include Farmhouse Cooking with Jason Smith and Nancy Fuller, handroll making at Bondi Sushi, pasta making at Nove Pasta House and dumpling making with Chef Diego Ng. Beverage programming includes Martinis & Magic, Disco & Daiquiris, The Spanish Wine Journey and Snack Attack Wine Seminar.

Five signature events anchor the week, beginning Thursday, January 21st, 2027 with this year’s newest event, The Feast, hosted by Chef Rino Cerbone, celebrating Italian cuisine, wine and hospitality. BBQ at the Beach, hosted by Jason Smith, follows Friday, January 22nd, 2027. The Grand Tasting returns Saturday, January 23rd, 2027 to Las Olas Oceanside Park with unlimited food and beverage tastings, live entertainment and demonstrations featuring Samuelsson, Smith, Jackson and Flora. Sunday, January 24th, 2027 features Beachside Brunch, hosted by Nancy Fuller with special guest Eddie Jackson, and the free, family-friendly Picnic in the Park presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

"Nine years ago, we envisioned a festival that would showcase the incredible culinary talent found right here in Greater Fort Lauderdale," said Kate Reed, Co-Founder of the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival. "Today, we're proud to welcome nationally recognized chefs while continuing to celebrate the restaurants, chefs and hospitality professionals that have helped make this festival what it is. As we continue to grow, our commitment remains the same: creating unforgettable culinary experiences, supporting our local hospitality community and giving back to Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital."

Tickets are now on sale now for Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival. The full schedule of classes, signature events and dinners can be found on the festival’s website at: www.VLFoodWine.com. For updates and to stay connected, follow Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube using the hashtag #VLFWF.

Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival 2027 Schedule

Signature Events

Thursday, January 21st, 2027

The Feast: An Evening Of Italian Culture & Flavor – Hosted by Rino Cerbone

Benvenuti, mangiamo! Italy is having a moment, and The Feast brings that unmistakable energy to Greater Fort Lauderdale. Hosted by local favorite Rino Cerbone, owner of Heritage, guests will journey through Italy's diverse culinary regions with dishes prepared by nationally renowned and locally celebrated chefs, showcasing authentic flavors alongside contemporary interpretations of beloved classics. Set beneath the stars at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, this VIP experience features unlimited chef tastings, handcrafted cocktails, curated wines, live entertainment and an unforgettable evening inspired by la dolce vita.

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Location: Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, 80 Las Olas Circle, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

Price: Currently priced at $90 (plus tax and fees). Prices gradually increase as the event grows closer, so the earlier you purchase your tickets, the more money you save!

Friday, January 22nd, 2027

BBQ At The Beach – Hosted by Jason Smith

Food Network star Jason Smith hosts an evening of barbecue, smoked specialties and bold flavors from local and nationally recognized barbecue talent. Guests can enjoy bites, beverages and live music in a waterfront setting.

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Location: Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, 80 Las Olas Circle, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

Price: Currently priced at $90 (plus tax and fees). Prices gradually increase as the event grows closer, so the earlier you purchase your tickets, the more money you save!

Saturday, January 23rd, 2027

The Grand Tasting

The festival’s marquee event returns to Las Olas Oceanside Park for an afternoon of unlimited food and beverage tastings, celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, live entertainment and interactive culinary experiences.

Location: Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

General Admission (GA):

Access: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Enjoy unlimited tastings, a commemorative tasting glass, unlimited water, cooking demonstrations, wine and cocktail seminars, and live entertainment.

Price: Currently priced at $99 (plus tax and fees). Prices gradually increase as the event grows closer, so the earlier you purchase your tickets, the more money you save!

VIP Experience:

Access: 12:00 p.m. Noon – 4:00 p.m.

Enjoy all general admission offerings, plus express entrance beginning at noon, an additional hour of tastings and access to the Delta VIP Lounge with exclusive food and beverage offerings.

Price: Currently priced at $225 (plus tax and fees). Prices gradually increase as the event grows closer, so the earlier you purchase your tickets, the more money you save!

Sunday, January 24th, 2027

Picnic In The Park – Presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital

This complimentary community celebration welcomes all ages for family-friendly cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, local artisan vendors and activities, including the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Teddy Bear Clinic. Food trucks and beverages will be available for purchase.

Time: Noon – 4:00 p.m.

Location: Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

Price: Free to attend; food and beverages available for purchase

BEACHSIDE BRUNCH – Hosted by Nancy Fuller with special guest Eddie Jackson

Nancy Fuller returns alongside special guest Eddie Jackson for an afternoon of brunch dishes from Greater Fort Lauderdale restaurants, bubbles, brunch cocktails, live entertainment and ocean views.

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Location: The Lawn at Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

Price: Currently priced at $90 (plus tax and fees). Prices gradually increase as the event grows closer, so the earlier you purchase your tickets, the more money you save!

Visit Lauderdale Food And Wine Festival Dining Series Presented By Pnc Bank

Monday, January 18th, 2027

Opening Night Collaboration Dinner – Heritage X Macchialina

Heritage’s Chef Rino Cerbone welcomes Macchialina’s Chef Mike Pirolo for the opening dinner of festival week.

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Heritage, 903 Northeast 5th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $250

Tuesday, January 19th, 2027

Dinner At MAASS – Featuring Chefs Ryan Ratino and David Brito

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: MAASS, 525 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $345

Wan’s Mandarin House X Top Hat Delicatessen

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Wan’s, 664 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $150

Wednesday, January 20th, 2027

EVELYN’S with Chef Brandon Salomon featuring Singeal Estate Winery

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Evelyn’s, 525 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $250

Ukiah X The Wolf Of Tacos – Featuring Chefs Michael Lewis and Eduardo Lara

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Ukiah, 221 Southwest 1st Avenue, Suite#: 1, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Price: $195

Union Kitchen & Bar X Barolo Cucina D’Autore – Featuring Chefs Christie Tenaud and Manuella Maffezzoli

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Union Kitchen & Bar, 2309 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305

Price: $175

Midwest Nice – with Food & Wine Best New Chef Vinnie Cimino

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: TRP Taste, 1 West Las Olas Boulevard, Suite#: 100, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Price: $195

Tunes & Tapas: A Late Night Omakase – Featuring Chef Thuan Lam

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Location: MISO, 815 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Suite#: 400, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $195

Thursday, January 21st, 2027

The Journey Of PEZ-KA – Featuring Chef Martin Verano

A preview of TRP’s upcoming restaurant in FAT Village.

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: TRP Taste, 1 West Las Olas Boulevard, Suite#: 100, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Price: $225

Sidewalk Diner x Bicyclette Cookshop – Featuring Chefs Dave Lopez and Kayla Pfeiffer

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Sidewalk Diner, 901 Progresso Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $225

Sunday, January 24th, 2027

Sunday Dim Sum Brunch – With Chef Diego Ng, featuring Shojo’s Dojo

Time: 12:00 p.m. Noon

Location: Temple Street Eatery, 416 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Price: $99

The Farmer, The Chef And The Vintner – With Chef Allen Susser, featuring Mastermind Mushrooms and Frey Vineyards

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Sunness Supper Club, 2465 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Price: $175

Culinary And Beverage Classes

All classes and seminars begin at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, January 19th, 2027

Handroll Making at Bondi Sushi

Martinis & Magic at Cocktail Uncultured

Pasta Making 101 at Nove Pasta House

The Spanish Wine Journey at Union Kitchen & Bar – With Sommelier Roberto Colombi

Taste of Thailand at Sistrunk Marketplace – With Chef Jorge Montes

Vino E Vegano Italiano at Cucina Alfresco – Featuring Frey Vineyards

Wednesday, January 20th, 2027

Bubbles, Bites & Beats at Champagne Shack

Cake Decorating at Lovelee Bakeshop – With Chef Lee Mazor

Prohibition Cocktails at Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery Ftl

Snack Attack Wine Seminar at Sidewalk Bottleshop – With Sommelier Dave Lopez

Flavors of Peru at Sistrunk Marketplace – With Chef Jorge Montes

The Art of Dumplings at Temple Street Eatery – With Chef Diego Ng

Thursday, January 21st, 2027

Disco & Daiquiris at Cocktail Uncultured

Farmhouse Cooking at Sistrunk Marketplace – With Chefs Jason Smith and Nancy Fuller

About Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival

The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival, founded by Kate Reed and Phillip Marro, is an annual celebration of Greater Fort Lauderdale's rich culinary scene. Set against the backdrop of 24 miles of stunning beaches and vibrant downtown communities, the festival spans seven days in January. This immersive event features an array of experiences, including wine tastings, gourmet dinners, craft beer samplings, and spirits showcases, all designed to highlight the diverse flavors and innovative culinary talents in the region. In addition to the main festival week, various sanctioned events will be held throughout the year, each offering a unique setting that underscores the area's emerging art districts and cultural vibrancy. The festival not only provides a platform for food and drink enthusiasts to indulge in exceptional cuisine but also supports local charities, reinforcing its commitment to the community. Whether you're exploring new culinary trends, enjoying a beachfront wine tasting, or attending a dinner in one of the city's cultural hotspots, the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival promises unforgettable experiences that celebrate the essence of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

For the latest updates and event details, visit: www.VLFoodWine.com. And follow: @VLFoodWine on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube (#VLFWF).

About Visit Lauderdale

Visit Lauderdale is the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale and serves as the tourism department for Broward County, Florida. Visit Lauderdale promotes the area’s 31 municipalities to a global audience of leisure and business travelers as the ideal place for Everyone Under the Sun in recognition of the area’s diverse and welcoming vibe, and books conventions into the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center and area hotels and resorts. Find more information at: https://visitlauderdale.com. And follow: @VisitLauderdale on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.