Fans of the South Beach Wine and Food Festival fall into two camps: the eaters and the drinkers. If you’re among the latter group, we have good news for you: the 18th annual event returns with extra daytime parties featuring even more free-flowing cocktails. Below is a list of favorites, including the first ever drag brunch where an extra mimosa or two will likely serve you well.
Drag Brunch hosted by Alex Carr
Happening concurrently with PRIDE Fort Lauderdale, SOBEWFF’s first drag brunch features hosts Elvis Duran, Z100 radio personality, and fiancé Alex Carr, plus Master of Ceremonies Kitty Meow and a bevy of talented ladies strutting their stuff. Expect a full brunch spread—champagne, raw bar, omelette station and more. Feb 23 11:30am–1:30pm. The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale, 1 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale. $125.
From Harlem to Overtown Brunch hosted by Marcus Samuelsson
For the second year in a row, Harlem golden boy Marcus Samuelsson brings his signature soul food to Overtown. You’ll preview the James Beard Award-winning chef’s new restaurant before moving to an outdoor space for a full southern spread (ribs, fried chicken, collard greens) and a cheerful performance by a local brass band. Feb 23 noon–3pm. 920 NW Second Ave. $175.
Lunch hosted by Alex Guarnaschelli and Gilles Epie
This rooftop event takes lunch to new levels. French-trained chefs Gilles Epié of Juvia and Alex Guarnaschelli of Food Network fame collaborate on a multicourse, wine-paired menu that’s sure to trump your favorite bottomless brunch. Feb 24 noon–2pm. Juvia, 1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. $200.
Southern Kitchen Brunch hosted by Trisha Yearwood
Loews Miami Beach and country singer-turned-cook Trisha Yearwood go together like biscuits and gravy, which is, coincidentally, what the Food Network star will probably serve at her annual Southern Kitchen Brunch. The buffet spread will be stacked with more of Yearwood’s specialties, sweets and more. Feb 24 11:30am–1:30pm. Loews Miami Beach Hotel, 1601 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. $175.
Bloody Mary Brunch hosted by Jeff Mauro and Geoffrey Zakarian
The always dapper Zakarian hosts a daytime soiree that’s equally sophisticated, featuring live jazz, a raw bar, suckling pig and a variety of Bloody Mary options. Speaking of choices, there will be an entire dessert room to cap off the afternoon. Feb 24 12:30–2:30pm. Point Royal at the Diplomat Beach Resort, 3555 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood. $175.
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