The 16th Annual Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival Returns Bigger and Better Than Ever, in Partnership with Wine Spectator
By Jenny Starr Perez
Our glamorous neighbor to the north, Palm Beach, is set to sizzle this December as the renowned Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival (PBFWF), now in its 16th year, returns with a star-studded lineup of culinary events and immersive gastronomic experiences. In an exciting partnership with Wine Spectator, this year’s festival promises to elevate the senses with an expanded footprint, featuring 26 action-packed food and beverage events from December 7 to 10, 2023.
A Culinary Extravaganza with a Charitable Twist
This year, the PBFWF introduces a new charitable component, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Els for Autism Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families globally. Attendees can indulge in the finest culinary offerings while contributing to a noble cause. The festival’s partnership with Wine Spectator adds a new dimension to the culinary experience. Known for its commitment to showcasing the best in culinary and oenological craftsmanship, Wine Spectator’s influence is evident in an enhanced lineup of fine wines and spirits. The Grand Tasting event, a festival favorite, will feature over 60 wine tables pouring selections with a prestigious 90+ rating by Wine Spectator, a significant expansion from previous years.
New Events and Expanded Footprint
This year, the PBFWF expands its footprint into Boca Raton, hosting the Kick-Off Party at The Boca Raton, promising a beautiful display of food, wine, and spirits. The festival kicks off on December 7 with six individual, multi-course sit-down dinners throughout Palm Beach County, featuring renowned chefs and culinary personalities. The festival’s diverse lineup includes signature lunch events, cocktail workshops, kids’ cooking sessions, and intimate dinners hosted by culinary luminaries. From the Festival Kick-Off Party in Boca Raton to the dazzling Evening at The Breakers, attendees can expect a journey of culinary delights, each event offering a unique experience.
Notable highlights include Lunch at Avocado Grill, where guests can go beyond the border with host chef Julien Gremaud and guest chefs Giorgio Rapicavoli, Jordan Rubin and Stephen Stryjewski, who will be serving dishes highlighting untraditional ingredients alongside phenomenal wine pairings ($195 per person). An Evening at The Breakers also promises to dazzle guests with an exciting collection of food and beverages from the resort’s exclusive dining outlets. The event will be hosted by the resort’s executive chef Anthony Sicignano alongside Master Sommelier Virginia Philip, who will also be hosting a master tasting during the festival at her eponymous Virginia Philip Wine Spirits & Academy. $275 per person. One of the most anticipated dinners of the entore event will be The First Bite, the four-course seated dinner with wine pairings featuring host chef Clay Conley and visiting chefs Joe Flamm, Stephanie Izard, and Ken Oringer at the Buccan kitchen. They’ll be serving a family-style meal with premier wine pairings ($275 per person).
Sunday Finales and Grand Tasting
The festival concludes on Sunday, December 10, with the Daniel & Friends brunch at Café Boulud, the Real Food Revolution event featuring innovative brunch offerings, and the highly anticipated Grand Tasting presented by The Palm Beaches at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. The Grand Tasting will showcase food stations from South Florida’s best restaurants, along with wine and spirit tastings. Among these top restaurants are local favorite Almond and Galley, the elegant grill house nesteld within the Hilton West Palm Beach. Need a pick-me up after all the food and libations? Pumphouse will be on-hand serving their delicious coffee and more. Pro tip: Traveling from Miami or Orlando? Skip the drive and head to the festivities on the Brightline.
For more details about individual events, participating chefs, or to purchase tickets please visit pbfoodwinefest.com or call 800.210.0689.
