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SOBEWFF Kicks Off in Miami with Celebrity Chefs and Charity Focus

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/20 .. iami-with-celebrity-chefs-and-charity-focus.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 19:30 GMT by 7News Miami
      Locales: Florida, New York, UNITED STATES

Miami, FL - February 21st, 2026 - The vibrant culinary landscape of South Beach is once again buzzing with activity as the annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) is in full swing. This year's festival promises a dazzling array of gastronomic delights, celebrity chef appearances, and, crucially, a significant boost to local charities. Broadcaster Belkys Nerey of WSVN 7 and celebrated chef Geoffrey Zakarian brought the excitement to a national audience today, appearing on ABC's Good Morning America to preview the weekend's highlights.

SOBEWFF has long been a staple of Miami's cultural calendar, attracting foodies, wine enthusiasts, and industry professionals from across the globe. What began as a modest event two decades ago has evolved into a nationally recognized festival, consistently ranked among the top culinary events in the country. This year's edition, however, appears poised to surpass previous successes, not only in attendance but also in its philanthropic impact.

Zakarian, a fixture on cooking competition shows and owner of several acclaimed restaurants, emphasized the unique atmosphere of SOBEWFF. "It's not just about the food, although the food is incredible," he told GMA viewers. "It's about the energy, the Miami vibe, and the commitment to giving back to the community. You have world-class chefs working side-by-side with rising stars, all with the same goal of creating unforgettable experiences."

This year, the festival's charitable focus is firmly on Share Our Strength, a leading organization dedicated to ending hunger in the United States. Organizers are projecting to raise over $1 million for the cause, a testament to the festival's growing popularity and the generosity of its attendees. This represents a significant increase from previous years, indicating a heightened awareness of food insecurity and a desire to support solutions. Share Our Strength's work extends beyond immediate food relief, focusing on long-term solutions like culinary job training and advocating for policies that address the root causes of hunger.

The festival offers a diverse program catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. From grand tastings featuring dozens of renowned chefs and wineries to intimate masterclasses and chef-hosted dinners, there's something for everyone. This year's lineup includes interactive demonstrations focusing on sustainable seafood, plant-based cuisine, and the art of mixology. New this year is a dedicated "Neighborhood Eats" section, showcasing the diverse culinary offerings of Miami's local restaurants and food trucks, providing a platform for smaller businesses to gain exposure.

Beyond the traditional events, SOBEWFF continues to innovate. This year, the festival is incorporating a significant digital component, with live-streamed demonstrations and virtual tastings available to a wider audience. This move aims to expand the festival's reach and allow those unable to travel to Miami to participate in the festivities. A dedicated app provides attendees with real-time event schedules, interactive maps, and exclusive content.

Belkys Nerey highlighted the festival's impact on Miami's economy. "SOBEWFF isn't just a great weekend for food lovers; it's a major economic driver for our city," she explained on Good Morning America. "It brings in tourists, creates jobs, and shines a spotlight on Miami as a world-class destination." The festival generates significant revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses, further solidifying its importance to the Miami community.

As the weekend unfolds, attendees can expect more than just exceptional food and wine. SOBEWFF is a celebration of community, a platform for culinary innovation, and a powerful force for positive change. The combination of celebrity star power, local flavor, and a strong commitment to charity makes it a truly unique event on the international culinary scene. For those interested in learning more about the festival and supporting Share Our Strength, visit [ https://www.sobewff.com/ ]. The festival is expected to continue drawing crowds and making a difference for years to come.