As much as we love and look forward to the annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival, our wallets are never quite prepared for the sucker punch that are ticket prices. Car payment or an afternoon at the Grand Tasting? KFC for a month or two hours swigging champagne and eating fried chicken with Andrew Carmellini? Fortunately, attending the SOBEWFF this year won’t feel like Sophie’s choice. With more than 100 events scheduled, the 18th edition of the fest offers a smattering of options priced at $100 or less, and some even include a bonus workout (it’s ok to cancel your gym memberships now, guys). Have an extra Benjamin burning a hole in your pocket? Here’s where to spend it.
Craft-y Happy Hour hosted by Robert Irvine
The Food Network star and cookbook author hosts an intimate happy hour overlooking Biscayne Bay. Chat him up while sampling craft cocktails and small bites by the Mondrian pool. Feb 21 5:30–7:30pm. Mondrian South Beach Hotel, 1100 West Ave, Miami Beach. $95.
Mixing It Up on the Miami River: Best Bars, Bites and Beats hosted by Adam Richman
The host of Food Network’s Man Finds Food lands on the banks of the Miami River for a late-night party with DRINK Miami. Set about a mixology journey led by top mixologists from around the world slinging cocktails from Miami’s best bars and beyond. Mojo Donuts, La Santa Taqueria and more local food trucks will also be on hand. Feb 21 10pm–midnight. The Wharf Miami, 114 SW North River Dr. $95.
Cigars and Spirits presented by Cigar Aficionado
Secure your digestif early. Snag a ticket for Cigar Aficionado’s rooftop event, featuring assorted brown spirits for pairing with your favorite stogie. Not sure what you’re doing? A specialist on-site will happily talk you through the selection of premium cigars and bourbons and whiskies on tap. Feb 22 10pm–1am. Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach, 660 Washington Ave, Miami Beach. $95.
Mangia! A Taste of Italy After Dark hosted by Marc Murphy
Chopped’s Marc Murphy brings you a very classy way to carboload. From pasta and pizza to gelato, Casa Tua Cucina’s 10 stations open after hours for a late-night Italian feast paired with a special selection of wines. Feb 22 11pm–1am. Casa Tua Cocina, 70 SW 7th St. $95.
Bootcamp and Bites hosted by Robert Irvine
Chef and fitness enthusiast Robert Irvine leads a beachfront morning workout with a healthy breakfast to follow. Feb 23 8:30–10:30am. 1 Hotel South Beach, 2341 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. $50.
Get Zen and get fed. Start your day with an energizing flow led by local yogi Dawn B and fuel your body with healthy bites and some well-earned Bellinis. Feb 23 10:30am–noon. Loews Miami Beach Hotel, 1601 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. $50.
It’s never too early for chocolate—or wine. This Saturday morning tasting experience pairs delicious Vasalissa confections with an assortment of wines handpicked to enhance both flavors. Feb 23 8:30–10:30am. Vasalissa Chocolatier, Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour. $85.
Rosé Pool Party hosted by Geoffrey Zakarian
Perhaps one of the only SOBEWFF events where swimsuits are welcome, this Diplomat pool party features small bites and flowing rosé. Feb 23 3–5pm. Eden Roc Miami Beach, 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. $95.
Family Ice Cream Social hosted by Buddy Valastro
It’s a sugary fam jam at this Sunday afternoon event hosted by Cake Boss Buddy Valastro. Bring the whole clan to sample ice cream plus other delicious frozen treats. Feb 24 3–5pm. Loews Miami Beach Hotel, 1601 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. $75, children $30.
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