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5 Celebs We Can't Wait to Eat With at the NYC Wine and Food Festival

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  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 12:53 GMT by Us Weekly
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NYC Wine & Food Festival: Five Celebrities We’re Ready to Dine With

The annual New York City Wine & Food Festival is back, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most star‑studded food events of the year. Hosted over a stretch of five days in late spring, the festival brings together some of the city’s best restaurants, winemakers, chefs, and—most excitingly—celebrity diners. According to a recent US Magazine feature, five big‑name personalities are slated to appear, and the writers say we’re not just talking about the usual Hollywood crowd. From pop‑star chefs to seasoned actors, the festival’s lineup promises to turn every table into a front‑row seat for the culinary world.

Below is a rundown of the five guests the article highlights, why each is a tantalising addition to the tasting tables, and what you can expect from the festival itself.

1. Gordon Ramsay – The World‑Renowned Chef Who’s Turning the City’s Tables Upside‑Down

It might surprise some readers that the star of Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef will be at the NYC Wine & Food Festival, but Ramsay has a long history of turning food into an event. He’s set to host a live cooking demonstration at the event’s flagship venue, the Buddha Bar, where he’ll show how to pair wine with a signature truffle risotto. The US Magazine article notes that Ramsay’s enthusiasm for the city’s vibrant culinary scene—especially its farm‑to‑table restaurants—has kept him on the radar of New York’s food lovers for years. Fans of the chef will get the chance to taste a dish that will be paired with a curated wine list, curated by a top‑tasting sommelier.

2. Jennifer Lopez – The Pop‑Queen Who’s Been a Foodie For Decades

The salsa‑tasting booth at the festival’s main plaza is set to feature Jennifer Lopez, who is known for her love of Latin‑American cuisine. The US Magazine feature notes that Lopez’s culinary passion goes beyond the dance floor; she has previously worked with chefs such as Martha Stewart and Bobby Flay, and even launched her own line of olive oil and sauces. At the festival, Lopez will join a panel discussion titled “Music, Culture, and the Power of Flavor.” In addition to her appearances, her signature “Bailando” pizza will be a highlight for pizza lovers.

3. Chris Pratt – The Actor Who Turns Every Meal Into a Moment

Chris Pratt is no stranger to the foodie lifestyle; the Guardians of the Galaxy star has been spotted at a number of pop‑up eateries and has even mentioned his love for a good burger on his podcast. In the article, the writers point out that Pratt’s laid‑back humor and easy‑going demeanor make him a perfect candidate to lead a “cheat‑day” tasting, where he will pair his favorite craft beers with a variety of comfort foods. The festival will also host a “Star‑Studded Picnic” where Pratt will discuss his recent venture into eco‑friendly cooking.

4. Rachael Ray – The Food‑Show Host Who Turns Every Meal Into a Lesson

While many of us recognize Rachael Ray for her quick‑and‑easy recipes, the festival’s lineup shows that she’s more than a kitchen show host—she’s a cultural icon. The article notes that Ray will head a cooking workshop called “Taste of the City,” where she’ll invite diners to create their own New York‑style hot dog with a range of exotic toppings. She’ll also be the face of a “Health‑First” booth that encourages balanced eating. Ray’s presence at the festival underscores her long‑standing love for “food as a social experience,” a theme that will resonate with festival attendees.

5. Ariana Grande – The Pop Star Who’s Been Cooking Up Something New

Ariana Grande’s star power extends beyond the charts; she’s also a budding culinary enthusiast. The article mentions that Grande will debut her new line of gourmet chocolates at the festival’s “Sweet‑Spot” booth, which also hosts a chocolate‑pairing session with a local chocolatier. Additionally, Grande will conduct a short Q&A on the “Music & Food” stage, explaining how her music and culinary experiences influence one another. With her reputation for impeccable taste, Grande is expected to bring a new, glamorous dimension to the festival.

What the Festival Offers

While the star-studded guests make for the headline draw, the festival itself offers a multi‑layered experience:

• Wine Tastings: A curated selection of boutique vineyards from New York, California, and beyond will line the tasting tables, with sommeliers on hand to explain each wine’s origin and flavor profile.

• Food Demos: In addition to the celebrity cooking showcases, several restaurants—such as Eleven Madison Park, Balthazar, and Le Coucou—will conduct live cooking classes that highlight the city’s culinary diversity.

• Live Music and Entertainment: The festival’s stages will feature indie bands, jazz quartets, and DJ sets that create a lively backdrop for diners to soak up the atmosphere.

• Special Pop‑Up Eateries: A rotating lineup of food trucks and pop‑up restaurants will bring international flavors to the festival grounds, ranging from Korean barbecue to vegan Mexican street food.

• Networking Opportunities: Food industry professionals, aspiring chefs, and food critics will be in attendance, providing a unique networking environment for those looking to break into the culinary world.

Why You Can’t Miss It

The US Magazine article concludes by pointing out that the festival is not just a chance to sample world‑class food—it’s an opportunity to see your favorite celebrities in an intimate, culinary setting. For fans, it’s a chance to learn what their idols eat and drink, while for food lovers, it’s a chance to discover new pairings and techniques from both industry professionals and pop culture icons. The festival’s emphasis on community and conversation means that whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a foodie, or just someone who loves a good meal, there’s something for everyone.

The New York City Wine & Food Festival is slated to run from May 15‑20, 2024, and tickets are already on sale through the festival’s official website. The US Magazine feature recommends purchasing early, as the combination of celebrity appearances and exclusive tastings tends to sell out fast. The festival’s organizers also note that a portion of the proceeds will benefit local food‑security charities, adding a feel‑good element to the event.

Whether you’re drawn by the culinary prestige or the star‑studded lineup, the NYC Wine & Food Festival promises a memorable celebration of food, wine, and culture. With five big‑name guests—including Gordon Ramsay’s fiery kitchen, Jennifer Lopez’s Latin‑inspired flavors, Chris Pratt’s casual charm, Rachael Ray’s kitchen savvy, and Ariana Grande’s sweet touches—the festival is set to be one of the most talked‑about food events of the year. Get your tickets, bring your appetite, and join the conversation that’s sure to unfold on the tables of New York’s finest festival grounds.