SOBEWFF Turns 25 in 2026 | Must-See Dinners, Chefs & Events in Miami
SOBEWFF Turns 25 in 2026 | Must-See Dinners, Chefs & Events in Miami
SOBEWFF Turns 25 in 2026 | Must-See Dinners, Chefs & Events in Miami
As the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival returns for its milestone 25th year from February 19–22, 2026, Greater Miami & Miami Beach will once again become the epicenter of the culinary world. Blending international talent with local ingenuity, this year’s festival showcases Miami’s ascendancy as a global food capital—capturing the city’s diverse cultural influences, trend-forward perspectives and unparalleled hospitality.
Below, we spotlight the standout dinners, collaborations and marquee experiences that define this year’s celebration.
Thursday, February 19: Opening Night with Culinary Icons
The New York Times Dinner Series
Hosted at the striking Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, this exclusive, multicourse dinner brings together some of the most compelling voices in contemporary cuisine. Rising talent Peyton Leffingwell of Bistro at Sarasota Art Museum joins forces with culinary luminaries Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, Brooke Williamson and Zac Young. Expect creative mastery and refined execution in every dish as these chefs reinterpret seasonal ingredients into a remarkable tasting journey.
Taste of Italy – Presented by Pasta Rummo
Under the expert guidance of host Nadia Caterina Munno, this celebration of Italian flavors unfolds at Jungle Plaza in the Miami Design District. Donna Mare Italian Chophouse’s Chef Luigi Iannuario crafts soulful coastal Italian cuisine—his Cavatelli alla Norma a standout homage to Mediterranean tradition. At the same time, Alex Martinez of Donatella Restaurant elevates classic Italian fare with refined touches like Amalfi Limone Pasta and Nduja Arancini.
Set beneath iconic white festival tents at the American Airlines North Venue, this spirited evening pairs playful indulgence with serious culinary creativity. R House Wynwood, led by Executive Chef and Owner Rocco Carulli, debuts burgers that are as imaginative as they are decadent. Competing alongside 30+ acclaimed chefs and restaurants, guests have the unique privilege of casting votes for the People’s Choice Award in this beloved festival tradition.
Friday, February 20: Waterfront Dining at Its Finest
The New York Times Dinner Series at Verde, PAMM
On the waterfront terrace of the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), a trio of culinary powerhouses assembles to present an unforgettable dining experience. At the heart of this collaboration is Valeri Fuentes, the innovative chef behind Verde at PAMM, whose modern Miami sensibility translates into graceful, art-inspired dishes. She is joined by California icon Jonathan Waxman—renowned for his soulful simplicity—and Sarah Grueneberg, celebrated for her refined Italian artistry. Together, they craft a multicourse menu that harmonizes distinct culinary philosophies, all against the incomparable backdrop of Biscayne Bay at sunset.
Saturday, February 21: Dynamic Dining from Day to Night
Lunch at Uchiko Miami Beach
From noon to 2 p.m., Uchiko Miami Beach presents a midday feast that blends Japanese craftsmanship with global influence. James Beard Award–winning Chef Tyson Cole partners with Diego Oka of La Mar by Gastón Acurio at Mandarin Oriental, Miami to deliver pristine sushi, sashimi, wood-grilled specialties and thoughtful small plates, each plated with precision and seasonal intention.
Coca-Cola Presents Tournament of Champions LIVE
On the sands of Miami Beach, Guy Fieri hosts an electrifying live iteration of Food Network’s Tournament of Champions. Five elite chef teams led by past champions—including Brooke Williamson, Maneet Chauhan, Tiffani Faison, Mei Lin and Antonia Lofaso—compete across 25 interactive tasting stations. Chef Dale Talde, representing Tigress Restaurant & Rooftop, brings his bold, Asian-American point of view to the competition, infusing flavor and flair into every bite. A special performance by Rev Run elevates the event into a true festival highlight.
For those seeking refinement with rhythm, Delilah Miami’s Jazz Brunch delivers both. In a Roaring ’20s–inspired setting, chefs Mitchell Hesse and Brad Kilgore elevate brunch classics with luxurious touches and vibrant energy—all set to the seductive backdrop of live jazz.
Sunday, February 22: A Closing Day Worth Lingering Over
At SGWS Wynwood, six outstanding restaurants—including the celebrated Uchi Miami helmed by Chef Tyson Cole—unite for a refined sushi experience. This omakase-style tasting event celebrates the artistry and precision of Japanese cuisine, blending traditional technique with contemporary creativity.
Pizza-Making Master Class & Lunch at The Alley
Nestled within the alleyway of The Betsy – South Beach, The Alley welcomes guests for an intimate, hands-on exploration of Roman pizza with Chef Laurent Tourondel. Known for his precision and creativity, Tourondel guides participants through the craft of ultra-thin, crispy crusts, culminating in a communal lunch that celebrates both technique and taste.
The festival concludes with a lively brunch featuring Katie Lee, Jeff Mauro, Geoffrey Zakarian and Chef Oumar Diouf of Wyn Wyn. This globally inspired menu pairs inventive dishes with classic brunch favorites in an atmosphere that captures SOBEWFF’s celebratory spirit.
Miami as a Destination for Exceptional Dining
Across four days of curated experiences, from intimate chef collaborations to grand tastings, SOBEWFF 2026 honors culinary innovation and cultural expression. Whether discovering new interpretations of classic Italian cuisine, indulging in world-class sushi or engaging with chefs at the height of their craft, this year’s festival reflects Miami’s bold ascension as a destination where food, art and hospitality converge with unparalleled style and substance.
For tickets and full schedule information, visit sobewff.org.
