MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Thousands of festivalgoers, celebrity chefs and TV personalities packed into the Grand Tasting Village on Saturday as the South Beach Wine & Food Festival marked its 25th anniversary.

Set up along South Beach, the event drew crowds eager to sample dishes and drinks from around the globe.

“You’re here to eat, drink and have fun,” said attendee Jessy Obarrio.

Food and cocktail lines stretched across the sand as guests moved from booth to booth.

“I got the taco, got a margarita. Gonna enjoy the day,” said Efrain Forte.

The Grand Tasting Village featured several stages where celebrity chefs and Food Network stars led cooking demonstrations, drawing large crowds. Some focused on technique, while others leaned into entertainment, mixing performance with food.

“It’s the culture of South Florida -- the food, the wine, it’s the performance. It’s everything,” said Janeka White.

Organizers say the festival also shines a spotlight on local talent, from neighborhood restaurants to Florida International University students hoping to break into the hospitality industry.

“This is the biggest stage for food and hospitality,” said Chef Adrienne Calvo, owner of Chef Adrienne’s Vineyard Restaurant & Bar. “This event, what it means to my industry and who’s coming next is being able to support and inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals and culinarians.”

Adding to the Miami flavor, this year’s event is hosted by Emmy-nominated actress Sofia Vergara and her son, Manolo Vergara, founder of the food brand Toma.

“It’s awesome because Miami -- I never really left it. I left it physically, but Miami is home,” Manolo Vergara said. “It is super fun. I’m getting a tan, feeding people. There’s alcohol -- what’s not to like?”

The Grand Tasting Village continues Sunday at noon.

Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.