{"id":101522,"date":"2025-12-31T19:41:19","date_gmt":"2025-12-31T19:41:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/101522\/"},"modified":"2025-12-31T19:41:19","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T19:41:19","slug":"visit-lauderdale-food-wine-festival-2026-is-almost-here-jan-19-25","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/101522\/","title":{"rendered":"VISIT LAUDERDALE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL 2026 is almost here! Jan 19-25"},"content":{"rendered":"

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VISIT LAUDERDALE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL 2026 is almost here! Jan 19-25 <\/p>\n

Tickets still available for the year\u2019s biggest Food Fest!<\/p>\n

By Kenny Spahn<\/p>\n

Attention fellow Foodies \u2013 the VISIT LAUDERDALE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL (VLFWF) is almost here! \u00a0Now in its seventh year, the acclaimed festival has rapidly become Broward County\u2019s biggest and best culinary celebration, and has been recognized as \u201cone of Florida\u2019s premier epicurean events.\u201d \u00a0The VLFWF features a full week of epicurean experiences that invite food and drink lovers to learn, experience, and savor the diverse and innovative flavors that make the region unique. And the 2026 Festival promises to be better than ever, bringing together Michelin-recognized restaurants, James Beard\u2013nominated chefs, and nationally acclaimed celebrity talent for seven days of exceptional dining, enticing local flavors, and food-and-drink-focused fun. The VLFWF blends high-energy tastings, celebrity chef demonstrations, intimate collaborative dinners, and interactive food and spirit classes, capturing the excitement and innovation that define Greater Fort Lauderdale\u2019s culinary scene. This year\u2019s event features national Celebrity Chefs and Food Network stars including Richard Blais, Eddie Jackson, Nancy Fuller, Jason Smith, Clarice Lam, Ron Dimpflmaier, Remy Powell, Dario Stephen, and others.\u201cYear after year, Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival continues to grow, drawing more fans and chefs from around the world,\u201d proclaims Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. \u201cThis seventh annual celebration is our biggest yet, highlighting the incredible talent, flavors, and creativity that make the destination a premier culinary hub. Accompanied by national celebrity talent, the festival continues to showcase what makes Greater Fort Lauderdale unique.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Here\u2019s a quick synopsis of the week\u2019s festivities:<\/p>\n

THE GRAND TASTING (Sat, Jan 24):\u00a0 The week of events culminates with the Festival\u2019s signature event, the Grand Tasting. Don\u2019t miss this once-a-year opportunity to savor unlimited samplings from over 100 food and beverage providers, with the majestic oceanfront backdrop and Ft. Lauderdale\u2019s Oceanside Park in a vibrant, festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of Fort Lauderdale. The day also features cooking demonstrations from Celebrity Chefs Richard Blais, Eddie Jackson, and \u201cCaptain Ron\u201d Dimpflmaier\u2019 along with live music, DJs, Wine & Cocktail seminars, dancing, interactive booths, and more. \u00a0The Grand Tasting features over 50 of the area\u2019s best restaurants, including: \u00a026 Degree Brewing Company, Auro (from Napa Valley!), Bahia Mar, Caluso, Boatyard, Daniel\u2019s Steakhoue, Evelyn\u2019s, Even Keel Fish Shack, Four Seasons, Himbrini, Kaya, Lovelee Bake Shop, Militello\u2019s, Nature Heals Wellness, North Italia, Nub\u00e9 \u00a0Rooftop, Oceanside, the Omni Ft. Lauderdale, PiruCream, My Favorite Spot, Oaxaka, Olive & Sea, O Lounge, Papa\u2019s Raw Bar, Parlor Doughnuts, Pizzeria Magaddino, Rooftop @1WLA, S3 \u2013 Sun Surf Sand, Sistrunk Marketplace & Brewery, Stage, Steelpan, Sweet Aloha Ice Cream, Temple Street Eatery, The Rabbit Hole, The Restaurant People, \u00a0TRP Taste,\u00a0 Two Happy Buddhas, \u00a0Union Kitchen & Bar, Wan\u2019s Chinese, \u00a0YOLO, Yukai Japanese Smokehouse, and many more!<\/p>\n

\"\"VLFWF Grilllin\u2019 it up beachside!<\/p>\n

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Saturday\u2019s beachside extravaganza also includes unlimited samplings of fine wines, signature cocktails, craft beers, and spirits, along with live entertainment, cooking demos, interactive activities, and more.<\/p>\n

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Sampling wine the Spanish way!<\/p>\n

It all happens at the Las Olas Oceanside Park (3000 E. Las Olas Blvd.) in downtown Fort Lauderdale, from 1:00 (12:00 for VIP ticketholders) to 4:00.<\/p>\n

Enjoy the VIP Experience! The Grand Tasting takes place from 1:00 \u2013 4:00 for General Admission, but VIP Ticket holders get a one-hour early admission (12:00 noon), along with\u00a0 exclusive access and food & beverage tastings in the Delta VIP Lounge.<\/p>\n

The Grand Tasting is the signature event, but the Visit Lauderdale features a full week of culinary festivities, including: notable events include:<\/p>\n

NOTE: Check the VLFWF website for more information and ticket status, as many of these events sell out in advance!<\/p>\n

VLFWF SIGNATURE EVENTS:<\/p>\n

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 WOK \u2018N ROLL \u2013 Hosted by Clarice Lam<\/p>\n

Asian-inspired cuisine takes center stage alongside vibrant live music at the Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade<\/p>\n

Location: Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade, 80 Las Olas Cir, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 BBQ AT THE BEACH \u2013 Presented by Demesmin & Dover, Hosted by Jason Smith<\/p>\n

Enjoy a Friday night immersed in the flavors of BBQ at the Beach, presented by Demesmin & Dover and hosted by Food Network star Chef Jason Smith with special guest Ron \u201cCaptain Ron\u201d Dimpflmaier, the 2025 BBQ champion<\/p>\n

Location: Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade, 80 Las Olas Cir, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316<\/p>\n

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 \u2013 THE GRAND TASTING \u2013 Featuring Richard Blais, Eddie Jackson, and Ron Dimpflmaier<\/p>\n

SEE ABOVE<\/p>\n

Location: Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25<\/p>\n

PICNIC IN THE PARK \u2013 A family-friendly affair at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Guests are welcome to walk around at no cost and enjoy the lively atmosphere, with food trucks offering items for purchase, kid-friendly cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, the JDCH Kid\u2019s Zone, and local artisan vendors.<\/p>\n

Location: Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

BEACHSIDE BRUNCH \u2013\u00a0 Food Network starf Nancy Fuller, along with special guest Eddie Jackson hosts this delectable brunch fare crafted by some of Greater Fort Lauderdale\u2019s top culinary talent while enjoying a relaxed, gourmet atmosphere with serene views of the beach.<\/p>\n

Location: The Lawn at Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

VLFWF\u00a0 DINING SERIES:<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

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MONDAY, JANUARY 19<\/p>\n

OPENING NIGHT AT HERITAGE \u2013 \u00a0Kick off the culinary festivities with an unforgettable opening night at Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, Heritage with Chef Rino Cerbone, featuring a lineup of exquisite dishes and curated experiences.<\/p>\n

Location: Heritage, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20<\/p>\n

UKIAH x MACCHIALINA \u2013 \u00a0Collaborative dinner featuring bold flavors and creative pairings. Chef Michael Lewis of Ukiah and Chef Michael Pirolo of Michelin recommended Macchialina join forces for a unique menu blending Japanese and Italian influences.<\/p>\n

Location: Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

MAASS x ASADOR BASTIAN \u2013 \u00a0A refined evening of elevated dining with top chefs. Chef Ryan Ratino and Chef David Brito of MAASS along with Chef Doug Psaltis of Asador Bastian (ranked the #13 Steakhouse in the world!) present an elevated French-contemporary Latino collaboration.<\/p>\n

Location: MAASS, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

26 DEGREE BREWING FOUNDER\u2019S DINNER \u2013 A casual, flavorful beer-paired dinner at the local favorite. Chef Fergus Conneely curates a menu designed to pair perfectly with craft beers from 26 Degree Brewing.<\/p>\n

26 Degree Brewing Company, Pompano Beach,<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21<\/p>\n

EVELYN\u2019S x AURO \u2013 \u00a0A collaborative dinner blending coastal influences with modern technique. Chef Brandon Salomon of Michelin recommended Evelyn\u2019s and Chef Rogelio Garcia of Michelin starred Auro create a seasonal menu highlighting seafood and inventive small plates.<\/p>\n

Location: Evelyn\u2019s, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

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WAN\u2019S x KAYA x TEMPLE STREET EATERY \u2013 \u00a0An inventive collaboration celebrating the flavors of Asia. Chefs Kuk, Lalicon, Lam and Ng are teaming up to create a menu designed to take guests on a tour of Asia, highlighting traditional Asian flavors with contemporary techniques.<\/p>\n

Location: Wan\u2019s, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304<\/p>\n

UNION KITCHEN + BAR x APT9F \u2013 It\u2019s a Wilton Manors affair as two of the city\u2019s most beloved restaurants team up for a cause. Union Kitchen + Bar and Apt9F combine their culinary expertise for a refined evening with bites and sips featuring bold flavors.<\/p>\n

Location: Union Kitchen + Bar, Wilton Manors, FL<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

EVEN KEEL x STAGE x DJM RESTAURANTS \u2013 \u00a0Coastal-inspired dinner highlighting fresh, local ingredients. Chefs David MacLennan and Brad Phillips, along with Chef Dean James Max of DJM Restaurants and Chef Pushkar Marathe of Michelin recommended Stage Kitchen & Bar create, a menu centered on sustainable seafood and locally sourced produce.<\/p>\n

Location: Even Keel Fish Shack, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22<\/p>\n

CALUSSO x MAMANI \u2013 \u00a0An elegant collaboration spotlighting inventive fine dining. Chef Jonathan Kaiser and Chef Christophe De Lellis on an evening of dishes with Italian inspiration and French technique, paired with cocktails by Bar Colette.<\/p>\n

Location: Calusso, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

DANIEL\u2019S, A FLORIDA STEAKHOUSE x DARIOUSH WINE \u2013 \u00a0Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with Darioush wines and Chef Daniel Ganem \u2013 an unforgettable experience awaits! This dinner will feature multiple courses created by Chef Daniel, perfectly paired with Darioush wines.<\/p>\n

Location: Daniel\u2019s, A Florida Steakhouse, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25<\/p>\n

STEELPAN x THE RABBIT HOLE (Vegan Dinner) \u2013 \u00a0A plant-based culinary experience featuring bold Caribbean flavors. Chefs Craig Brown and Owen Henrey of Steelpan and Chef Samuel Woods of The Rabbit Hole create an inventive vegan menu emphasizing tropical flavors and sustainable ingredients.<\/p>\n

Time: 6:00 p.m.<\/p>\n

Location: Steelpan, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20<\/p>\n

PAIRING PIZZA AND BEER \u2013 \u00a0Discover how to pair two of life\u2019s favorites: pizza and beer. Taste five artisan pizza slices by Chef Tom Magaddino, perfectly paired with delicious brews from Gulf Stream Brewery, and learn how to best enjoy this classic combination.<\/p>\n

Location: Gulf Stream Brewery, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

THE ART OF PASTA \u2013 \u00a0Join Chef Jorge Montes for a hands-on class exploring the art of fresh pasta making, from shaping orecchiette to filling ravioli. The class opens with a cocktail and arancini and includes a shared feast to finish.<\/p>\n

Location: Sistrunk Marketplace, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

WHISK(E)Y: THE SPIRIT OF LIFE \u2013 \u00a0Discover the diverse world of whisk(e)y in this guided tasting and cocktail class, sampling four styles and making two classics, the Whiskey Sour and the Boulevardier.<\/p>\n

Time: 6:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

Location: Cocktail Uncultured, Oakland Park, FL 33334<\/p>\n

THE SPARKLING WINE EXPERIENCE \u2013 \u00a0Experience a sparkling journey around the world, each paired with hors d\u2019oeuvres by Chef Christie Tenaud. Discover the evolution of sparkling wine, including the refined elegance of Champagne, the bold expression of Sparkling Shiraz, and the delicate artistry of Japanese Awa Sake.<\/p>\n

Location: Union Kitchen & Bar, Wilton Manors, FL 33305<\/p>\n

ICE CREAM AND OHANA \u2013 \u00a0This family-friendly class explores the basics of ice cream making and the meaning of ohana in Hawaiian culture as you craft your own flavor to take home by the pint or quart.<\/p>\n

Location: Sweet Aloha Ice Cream, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21<\/p>\n

FLOW & FEAST \u2013 Flow through yoga and a calming sound bath, savor plant-based bites, sip organic wines by Frey Vineyards, and explore the art installations at MAD Arts Museum in this wellness experience blending movement, mindfulness, and creativity.<\/p>\n

Location: MAD Arts Museum, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

FLAVORS OF PERU \u2013 \u00a0Explore the vibrant cuisine of Peru with Chef Jorge Montes as he guides you through the preparation of traditional Peruvian dishes. The hands-on class opens with a Pisco Sour and culminates in a shared meal.<\/p>\n

Location: Sistrunk Marketplace, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

MASTER OF THE MIX \u2013 \u00a0Enjoy an immersive spirits experience featuring a cocktail hour, distillery tour, blending session, and hands-on cocktail class perfect for curious minds and cocktail lovers alike.<\/p>\n

Time: 6 p.m.<\/p>\n

Location: Chainbridge Distillery, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 22<\/p>\n

ALLERGEN-FREE PAIRINGS \u2013 Discover how world-class wine and allergen-free dining come together in this tasting featuring four curated wines and four expertly paired bites.<\/p>\n

Location: The Vintage on Harrison, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

CAKE DECORATING \u2013 \u00a0Learn professional cake-decorating tips and piping techniques while creating your own coastal-themed cake to take home and enjoy, complete with light bites from Milk Money Bar & Kitchen.<\/p>\n

Location: Milk Money Bar & Kitchen, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

COOKING WITH BOURBON \u2013 \u00a0A hands-on cooking class celebrating all things bourbon, from a Smoked Fig Old Fashioned to bourbon-infused dishes like bacon-wrapped dates, shrimp skewers, and petite filet mignon, ending with a shared meal.<\/p>\n

Location: Sistrunk Marketplace, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

LIBATIONS EXOTICA: THE CULT OF TIKI \u2013 \u00a0Shake up your night with a tiki cocktail adventure! Learn the history of tiki culture while mixing classics like the Mai Tai, Fog Cutter, and Zombie. Tropical attire encouraged!<\/p>\n

Location: Cocktail Uncultured Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

NATTY BY NATURE \u2013 \u00a0Explore the ever-growing world of natural wine and its low-intervention approach in a fun, approachable seminar featuring tips for pairing and curated bites.<\/p>\n

Location: Sidewalk Bottleshop, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

Price: $65<\/p>\n

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 23<\/p>\n

BREAKING BAO \u2013Join James Beard Award\u2013nominated Chef Clarice Lam and Chef Diego Ng for a hands-on class inspired by Lam\u2019s cookbook Breaking Bao, where you\u2019ll learn to craft a variety of flavorful bao.<\/p>\n

Location: Temple Street Eatery, Fort Lauderdale, FL<\/p>\n

So mark your calendars, and save the Dates (and room in your belly!) \u2013 and See you at the BIG one!<\/p>\n

The Seventh Annual Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival takes place January 19-25, 2026, at various locations throughout Ft. Lauderdale.<\/p>\n

The signature Grand Tasting is Saturday, Jan. 25 along the Las Olas Oceanside Park (3000 E. Las Olas Blvd.) in downtown Fort Lauderdale, from 1:00 (or 12:00 for VIP) \u2013 4:00.\u00a0 A full week of other events<\/p>\n

For more information including a full schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit:https:\/\/vlfoodwine.com<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n

For updates and to stay connected, follow Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival on Facebook<\/a>, Instagram<\/a>, TikTok<\/a>, Twitter<\/a>, and YouTube<\/a> using the hashtag #VLFWF.<\/p>\n

ABOUT VISIT LAUDERDALE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL<\/p>\n

The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival, founded by Kate Reed and Phillip Marro, is an annual celebration of Greater Fort Lauderdale\u2019s 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, spirits showcases, and dozens of sanctions events, all designed to highlight the diverse flavors and innovative culinary talents in the region. It also supports local charities, including Joe DiMaggio Children\u2019s Hospital.<\/p>\n

For the latest updates and event details, visit www.VLFoodWine.com<\/a>, and follow @VLFoodWine on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube (#VLFWF).<\/p>\n

ABOUT The Author and RESTAURANT PLACEMENT GROUP:<\/p>\n

Kenny Spahn is a renowned food critic, culinary columnist, and restaurant consultant, and has been writing about the south Florida culinary scene for the past 25 years. He serves as President of Restaurant Placement Group restaurant recruiters, the exclusive recruiting, placement, and consulting service for the restaurant and hospitality industry. For more information, please visit: https:\/\/www.restaurantplacement.com\/<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

TAGS:\u00a0 Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival, Visit Lauderdale, VLFWF, Fort Lauderdale, Events, Food & Wine Festivals, Festivals, Restaurants, Celebrity Chefs, Restaurant Placement Group, www.RestaurantPlacement.com<\/a>, Culinary, Wine Tastings,<\/p>\n

\n\tRelated\n<\/p>\n