Lee Schrager’s Expert Guide to Maximizing Your SOBEWFF Experience
Interviewed by: Daedrian McNaughton | Premier Guide Miami
Lee Schrager, the mastermind behind the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF), has shared his expert advice with Premier Guide Miami on navigating the culinary wonderland that is the festival. Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®) is set to take place from February 22-25, 2024, promising four days packed with over 105 events featuring Food Network stars, Grammy-winning musicians, lifestyle icons, and more than 500 chefs and beverage producers.
This year’s festival promises to be a spectacular celebration as the Magic City transforms into the ultimate culinary playground. Attendees can look forward to an array of experiences, from intimate dinners to grand tastings, culinary demonstrations to interactive workshops. With so much to indulge in, Lee Schrager’s guide serves as a roadmap for festival-goers to create lasting memories and savor every moment.
Not just a feast for the senses, the SOBEWFF also prides itself on giving back to the community. Over the years, the festival has raised an impressive $37 million in support of its educational mission to develop future hospitality leaders at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU). Partnering with sister event NYCWFF, the festivals have collectively raised over $51 million for their charitable causes, showcasing the power of food and wine to make a positive impact.
As the 2024 SOBEWFF approaches, attendees are encouraged to follow Lee Schrager’s guide to navigate the festival landscape with finesse, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience that feeds both the body and the soul.
1. Quality Over Quantity:
Schrager emphasizes the importance of not overextending yourself by attempting to attend every single event at SOBEWFF. Instead, focus on selecting a few key events that truly interest you and allow for a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
2. Daytime Delights:
Consider participating in a signature daytime event such as a masterclass or a wine seminar. These intimate sessions provide unique opportunities to learn from industry experts and deepen your culinary knowledge.
3. Grand Tasting Extravaganza:
The Grand Tasting is a must-visit event at SOBEWFF, offering a showcase of diverse cuisines, beverages, and culinary talents all under one roof. Make sure to carve out time to explore and savor the array of offerings available.
17th annual Burger Bash presented by Schweid & Sons® hosted by Rachael Ray
4. Evening Indulgence:
Follow up your daytime activities with an evening dinner hosted by SOBEWFF. These dinners are curated by renowned chefs and promise an exquisite dining experience that showcases the best of the culinary world. Dinner hosted by Zak Stern, Michael Beltran and Jose Mendín at Regener8 Farm
5. Late-Night Revelry:
Round off your day with a late-night party to mingle with fellow food enthusiasts, chefs, and industry insiders. It’s a fantastic way to unwind, socialize, and celebrate the vibrant food culture of SOBEWFF.
The David Grutman Experience will return on Sunday, February 25, turning the Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Villagecourtyard into a mini music festival.
6. Two Is the Magic Number:
Schrager’s golden rule is to aim for two significant experiences per day, striking a balance between daytime enrichment and evening entertainment. By pacing yourself and focusing on quality events, you’ll have a richer and more rewarding festival experience.
Lee Schrager’s guide serves as a roadmap for navigating the bustling landscape of SOBEWFF with intentionality and enjoyment in mind. By following his expert advice, attendees can savor the flavors, connections, and moments that make this festival a culinary highlight year after year.
Tickets for the Festival are On Sale NOW, with events that suit all different tastes and budgets at sobewff.org. To stay up to date on Festival happenings all year long, guests are encouraged to follow along with the #SOBEWFF hashtag on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.