Tickets On Sale Now For The 24th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival

Annabella Pardo

Tickets are now available for the nation’s most celebrated wine and food Festival: the 24th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®). From February 20-23, 2025 the four-day star-studded event will return to Miami Beach with more than 105 events, Food Network’s biggest culinary icons, Grammy-winning artists, popular lifestyle personalities, and more than 500 chefs, winemakers, and spirit producers who will come together to EAT. DRINK. EDUCATE. as the Magic City sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Photo via @sobewff

“The Festival not only celebrates the vibrant spirit of South Florida but also highlights the incredible food and beverage that has put Miami on the map as a premier culinary destination," says Lee Brian Schrager, Festival Founder & Director. “Miami’s unique setting makes it an ideal host for the annual Festival, attracting amazing local, national, and international talent, which keeps fans coming back every year. It’s incredible to see how far the Festival has come – from its beginnings on the FIU campus to now being a global event that supports the next generation of hospitality leaders.”

We also wanted to share a few of the new 2025 Festival events below. 

• Alex vs Miami hosted by Alex Guarnaschelli and Eric Adjepong

• Tournament of Champions hosted by Guy Fieri

• Sip & Swirl: A Wine Happy Hour at Casadonna 

• A Dozen Eggs and a Dream: A One Man Show and Dessert Party hosted by Duff Goldman

• Taste of Paradise hosted by Niven Patel and Mohamed Alkassar

Photo via @sobewff

We’re excited to announce FoodieCon® will return to bring together social media’s most food-loving personalities and a unique “offline” food experience. The full day of programming will feature influential digital content creators for memorable cooking demos, interactive panels, immersive activations and photo opportunities, and book signings with digital trailblazers. 

Lastly, we are thrilled to reveal this year’s Tribute Dinner will honor culinary genius Dominique Crenn and acclaimed vintner Gérard Bertrand. This exclusive event promises to be a grand celebration of exceptional talent and artistry in both the kitchen and the vineyard.

The Festival’s iconic open-air tasting tents will return this year – American Airlines® North Venue and Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village – for two days and four nights with the country’s most talented chefs and popular lifestyle personalities, supported by over 1,500 students from Florida International University. Returning fan favorites that guests can expect to see include:

Photo via @sobewff

● Rachael Ray will return to host the 18 th annual Mike's Amazing® Burger Bash presented by Schweid & Sons® on Thursday, February 20

● Aarón Sánchez will host the wildly popular Tacos & Tequila presented by Tequila Cazadores, featuring chefs serving up various iterations of one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes on Saturday, February 22

● 135,000 sq. ft. culinary playground featuring LIVE cooking demonstrations from Food Network personalities, 1,200+ products for sampling, over 45 restaurants and more at the Goya Foods' Grand Tasting Village on Saturday, February 22 and Sunday, February 23

From highly competitive cooking competitions to exclusive one-night-only pop-ups, the Festival team has programmed a diverse lineup of new events that will keep guests entertained throughout the weekend. Highlights include:

Photo via @sobewff

● Alex vs Miami, hosted by Alex vs America’s Alex Guarnaschelli and Eric Adjepong on Thursday, February 20, will be a late-night dance party during which participating chefs will go head-to-head, competing to create the best dish of the night inspired by local flavors.

● Inspired by his hit series of the same name, Guy Fieri will host Tournament of Champions, an epic culinary competition where four teams—each led by a past TOC winner will battle it out on the sands of Miami Beach for top honors on Friday, February 21.

● Tyler Florence will host the new Masters of Fire, celebrating the art of grilling and outdoor cooking, on Saturday, February 22.

● Duff Goldman will host a comedy show and dessert party, A Dozen Eggs and a Dream: A One-Man Show and Dessert Party hosted by Duff Goldman, on Saturday, February 22.

● A new grand finale event, Asian Night Market hosted by Andrew Zimmern, Jet Tila and Aarti Sequeira, will feature a special performance by Rev Run and close out the Festival weekend on Sunday, February 23.

Photo via @sobewff

From Miami Beach to Kendall and everywhere in between, the 2025 Festival offers a carefully curated lineup of events that celebrate the vibrant local cuisine and culture of these neighborhoods and their significant role in shaping South Florida. Event highlights include:

● A Taste of Italy hosted by Giada De Laurentiis part of the Miami Design District Event Series on Thursday, February 20

● Steak and Whiskey hosted by Michael Symon part of the Miami Design District Event Series on Friday, February 21

● The Cookout hosted by JJ Johnson presented by Stella Artois on Saturday, February 22

● A Sunset Feast sponsored by Grove Bay Hospitality Group & Friends hosted by Belkys Nerey & Dan Le Batard part of The Hangar Event Series presented by Capital One on Saturday, February 22

● Noche Cubana hosted by Michelle Bernstein, David Martinez, and Gio Gutierrez on Saturday, February 22

● Taste of Paradise hosted by Niven Patel and Mohamed Alkassar on Saturday, February 22

● Miami Bakery Brunch hosted by Zak Stern on Sunday, February 23

● Overtown Eatup! hosted by Marcus Samuelsson on Sunday, February 23

● Drag Brunch featuring Mistress of Ceremonies Athena Dion on Sunday, February 23

The 2025 Tribute Dinner, part of The New York Times Dinner Series, will take place on Saturday, February 22 at the Loews Miami Beach. The prestigious event will honor renowned chef Dominique Crenn and acclaimed vintner Gérard Bertrand, celebrating their exceptional talent and artistry. The unforgettable evening will be dedicated to their passion, innovation, and excellence in both the culinary and wine worlds.

This year’s Festival will feature a variety of intimate gatherings, including seated Brunches & Lunches, Master Classes, and exclusive one-night-only Intimate Dinners, alongside a handful of Family-Friendly Events and Late Night Parties. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to dive into the art of gastronomy, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with their favorite chefs, local restaurateurs, vintners, and mixologists. Each event will feature a curated selection of premium wines and spirits from the Festival’s exclusive provider, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Highlights include:

● Table of Ten hosted by Bobby Flay at Casa Tua on Thursday, February 20

● Dinner hosted by Niven Patel and Maneet Chauhan at Ghee Indian Kitchen Wynwood on Thursday, February 20

● Dinner hosted by Michael Solomonov, Stephanie Izard, and Adeena Sussman part of The New York Times Dinner Series at Aviv at 1 Hotel South Beach on Friday, February 21

● Cigars & Spirits hosted by Guy Fieri presented by Cigar Aficionado on Friday, February 21

● Croissant-Making Master Class hosted by Casa Bake part of the Master Class Series presented by Capital One on Saturday, February 22

● Delilah Miami presents Jazz Brunch hosted by Michael Symon and Michael Teich on Saturday, February 22

● Lunch hosted by Susur Lee and James Wright at Klaw Miami on Saturday, February 22

● Vietnamese Cooking Master Class hosted by TÂM TÂM part of the Master Class Series presented by Capital One on Saturday, February 22

● Dinner hosted by Andrew Zimmern and Diego Oka part of the American Airlines® Dinner Series at La Mar by Gastón Acurio on Saturday, February 22

● BBQ-Making Master Class & Lunch hosted by Apocalypse BBQ part of the Master Class Series presented by Capital One on Sunday, February 23

● Farmers Market Brunch hosted by Michael Schwartz part of the Miami Design District Event Series on Sunday, February 23

● Dim Sum Brunch hosted by Dale Talde at Hutong on Sunday, February 23

● A Sushi Omakase Collective hosted by Uchi, Kissaki, MILA Omakase, Mr. Omakase, and Sushi by Scratch Restaurants at SGWS Wynwood on Sunday, February 23

To date, the Festival has raised more than $40 million in support of its educational mission to provide an invaluable real-world experience and an interactive educational platform for future leaders of the hospitality industry at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU). Between SOBEWFF® and its sister NYCWFF, more than $53 million has been raised to benefit the respective charities of each Festival. Beyond the funds raised, both Festivals draw attention to the vibrant dining cultures of their respective cities, provide economic stimulus in their communities, and serve as a platform to drive awareness and engagement for a wide array of philanthropic activities.

Photo via @sobewff

Tickets for the Festival are On Sale NOW, with plenty of options to suit your taste and budget at sobewff.org. Stay up to date all year long by following @SOBEWFF on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

---

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Michael White’s Santi Opens Today: A Grand Return to NYC’s Italian Culinary Scene

Today marks a monumental moment for NYC’s dining world as acclaimed chef Michael White unveils Santi, his latest Italian culinary masterpiece, at 520 Madison Avenue. After years away from Manhattan’s restaurant scene, White’s triumphant return promises to redefine modern Italian cuisine in the city he helped shape. Santi, a luxurious new flagship from White’s BBianco Hospitality Group, opens its doors with a menu that showcases the chef’s unparalleled mastery of pasta, crudos, and seasonal Italian cooking.

Photo Credit Evan Sung

The cocktail program, designed by James Lamb, complements White’s signature attention to detail with Italian-inspired beverages such as the Diavolo Fashioned and Saint’s Cure, while the wine list, crafted by Hak Soo Kim and Andreina Mayobre, highlights top selections from Burgundy to Brunello and hidden Italian gems. Desserts like the Tartaletta with Sicilian pistachio and the indulgent Millefoglie promise to round out the experience with sophistication.

Photo Credit Evan Sung

The restaurant’s design, courtesy of Michaelis Boyd and L’Observatoire International, offers an atmosphere as artful as the menu. Guests enter through a grand horseshoe bar with a dramatic yellow onyx backdrop, transitioning into spaces adorned with green onyx, rich walnut, and dreamlike painted walls. With a mezzanine overlooking the central dining space, the lavish yet intimate setting combines elegance with grandeur. Artistic touches throughout the restaurant, including a meticulously restored 11-foot "Vagabond Mirror," add layers of storytelling and history to the space.

Photo Credit Evan Sung

Santi promises not only to redefine Italian dining in NYC but to serve as a testament to Michael White’s enduring legacy in the culinary world. This highly anticipated opening is set to become a centerpiece of Manhattan’s gastronomic scene. Reservations are highly recommended for this exceptional new destination.

Dear Strangers: West Village’s Newest Cocktail Bar Fuses Latin American Flair with NYC Sophistication

The West Village welcomes Dear Strangers, (147 w 4th Street
New York, NY 10012) a bold new cocktail bar and restaurant set to officially open its doors on November 19th. Tucked beneath a classic brownstone at the intersection of West 4th Street and 6th Avenue, Dear Strangers is the creation of hospitality veterans Ivan Papic, Ivan Radulovic, and Bratislav Glisic, whose combined experience at iconic NYC establishments like Employees Only and Macao Trading Co. shapes this sophisticated yet approachable space. With its intimate atmosphere, curated cocktail menu, and vibrant dishes, the venue promises to be a fresh gathering spot for New Yorkers seeking a stylish escape.

Photo credit: Andrea Grujic

Drinks That Tell Stories

At Dear Strangers, cocktails take center stage with an imaginative menu designed to surprise and delight. Highlights include the Angie, a blend of gin, Brazilian maracuya (passion fruit), and matcha, and the Star Treatment, which pairs sotol with cilantro syrup, coconut milk, and lime for a refreshing twist. For those craving a smoky edge, the Smokin’ Bandit combines rye whiskey, peated Scotch, lemon, and yuzu soda.

Gin lovers are in for a treat with a dedicated section of the menu devoted to Gin & Tonics, featuring Radulovic’s favorite variations inspired by Indian and Spanish traditions. Standouts like The Hindu Times blend toasted cumin, fenugreek, pomelo, and house-made tonic for a dynamic experience. These cocktails, paired with creative storytelling and pop culture influences—like nods to the band Oasis—make the menu as engaging as it is innovative.

A Culinary Adventure

The food menu, crafted with input from Chef Diego Rodriguez (formerly of Popular by Diego Muñoz), celebrates Latin American flavors with a modern American twist. Dishes like the Green Aguachile, with clarified cucumber, serrano, and lime water, or the indulgent Bisque de Tigre Chilaquiles, featuring lobster, prawn, and a fried quail egg, offer a fresh take on traditional cuisine. For dessert, the Cheesecake Buñuelo, paired with orange and vanilla tonka bean ice cream, provides a sweet finale that reflects the restaurant’s creativity and flair.

Photo credit: Andrea Grujic

A Design Worth Exploring

The ambiance at Dear Strangers is as much a part of the experience as the food and drinks. Designed by Dutch East Design, the space blends deep navy tones, marble accents, leather details, and polished wood to create a cozy yet elegant environment. The centerpiece is a stunning bar illuminated by dramatic lighting, inviting guests to linger over cocktails while retro accents and eccentric artwork add character. For those seeking a more private experience, a hidden dining room with deep sea blue walls offers a secluded escape.

With its inventive menu, lush design, and storied cocktails, Dear Strangers is set to make its mark as a standout addition to the West Village. Follow along on Instagram at @dearstrangersnyc or visit dearstrangersnyc.com to learn more about this exciting new destination.

---

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Meraki Brooklyn Brings Authentic Greek Dining to Williamsburg

Annabella Pardo

Williamsburg’s vibrant culinary scene recently welcomed Meraki Greek Bistro, which has now opened an inviting new outdoor patio for guests to enjoy a year-round cozy dining experience while savoring authentic Greek cuisine.

Meraki Brooklyn has also just launched a delectable new happy hour during the week serving Greek appetizers, wines and beer. Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, this restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere inspired by the Greek Isles, providing a delightful escape for diners.

Meraki Brooklyn is the first location outside Miami for the Meraki Hospitality Group, known for its successful Greek dining concepts in South Florida, including Meraki Greek Bistro and Meraki Gyro. Led by Executive Chef Giannis Kotsos and Managing Partner Alex Karavias, the team brings their passion for authentic Greek flavors to New York, building on a strong reputation cultivated through their Miami locations.

“Meraki means to put something of yourself into whatever you do, and that’s exactly what Chef Giannis and I have been doing since we opened the original Meraki location,” said Alex Karavias. "Our cuisine is a reflection of our love for Greek tradition, featuring fresh ingredients and classic flavors that have resonated with our guests in Miami, and we can’t wait for Brooklyn to experience the same."

Guests at Meraki Brooklyn are transported to the Aegean Sea with its charming decor featuring breezy white curtains, rustic wooden floors, cozy seating and gorgeous bar with bougainvillea adorning the ceiling overhead, which are designed to evoke the warmth and charm of a Greek taverna. With its new outdoor patio, diners can now enjoy the fresh Mediterranean dishes al fresco through all seasons.

Executive Chef Kotsos has curated a menu that emphasizes fresh, authentic Mediterranean flavors and stays true to his Greek roots, offering timeless dishes like Moussaka, Aegean Chicken and Creta Seafood Pasta. Family-style platters, known as “Poikilies,” encourage sharing and bring people together around the table, just as they would in Greece.

Adding to the dining experience is a carefully curated all-Greek wine list, featuring traditional and organic selections from Greece’s most renowned winemakers and unique micro-wineries. Guests can also enjoy a selection of Greek beers, highlighting both traditional favorites and new brews from local Greek microbreweries.

Meraki Brooklyn’s new happy hour features delectable appetizers with favorites such as mussels, calamari, spanakopita, honey and sesame cheese puffs and more for $7 each, house wines for $8 a glass and Greek beers for $4.

"We’ve always been about bringing people together over good food," said Chef Kotsos. "Every dish we create is meant to remind you of sitting by the sea in Greece, enjoying a meal with family and friends."

Whether it’s a weekend lunch or an evening out, Meraki Brooklyn offers a warm, inviting space where everyone is welcome. With lunch and dinner options, and a patio perfect for relaxing with friends, it’s the ideal spot to escape the hustle of the city and enjoy the simple pleasures of Greek dining. For those looking to celebrate special occasions, the restaurant also offers catering and private event services.

Meraki Brooklyn is open from 4pm to 10pm Monday through Thursday and on Friday from 4pm to 11pm and from 11am to 11pm on Saturday and Sunday. Meraki is located at 252 Grand St., Brooklyn, NY 11211. For more information, catering inquiries or reservation visit ww.merakibrooklyn.com or contact brooklyn@merakibistro.com 

---

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.