FIVE MIAMI RESTAURANTS ARE BRINGING SOMETHING NEW TO THE TABLE DURING FESTIVAL WEEK.
Every year, the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) welcomes the biggest names in food, from globally recognized stars to local legends. But some of the most exciting moments come from the fresh faces making their festival debut. This year, five Miami restaurants are stepping into the SOBEWFF spotlight, bringing inventive flavors, impeccable technique, and serious culinary star power. Here’s where to find them.
When Michelin-starred French master Gabriel Kreuther joins forces with Miami’s own Joe Anthony at Elastika, expect an unforgettable night. Anthony, known for his modern American approach, is setting the stage for a culinary experience that merges refined French techniques with unexpected twists. Hosted at the sleek and members-only Moore Hotel, this exclusive dinner blends luxury with artistic expression, much like Elastika itself. If you’re looking for a festival experience with the perfect balance of sophistication and creative edge, this is it.
Bagel lovers, this one’s for you. Miami’s beloved El Bagel is stepping up to the big leagues, joining forces with Zak Stern (aka Zak the Baker) for a carb-lover’s dream brunch. Known for his perfectly chewy bagels and playful flavor combos, Matteson Koche has transformed what started as a food truck into a full-fledged institution. At SOBEWFF, he’ll be serving alongside some of Miami’s top pastry talents, offering festivalgoers a taste of what makes his bagels legendary. Whether you go classic with a bacon, egg, and cheese or get adventurous with a smoked salmon and scallion cream cheese stack, this is one breakfast you won’t want to miss.
Craig Giunta’s Rosemary’s Miami is bringing the warmth of Italian hospitality to this year’s SOBEWFF, and there’s no better way to do it than under the stars at Jungle Plaza. Inspired by the beloved New York City original, Rosemary’s Miami delivers fresh, ingredient-driven Italian fare with a touch of South Florida charm. At A Taste of Italy, hosted by viral sensation The Pasta Queen (aka Nadia Caterina Munno), Giunta will serve up his signature pastas and rustic Italian flavors, making a strong case for why Rosemary’s is already one of Miami’s most talked-about newcomers. Expect handmade pasta, luscious sauces, and an atmosphere buzzing with la dolce vita energy.
Evan Funke is no stranger to the spotlight, but his Miami outpost of Mother Wolf is making its SOBEWFF debut in serious style. Known for his obsessive dedication to traditional Italian pasta-making, Funke brings a hands-on, old-world approach to every plate. For his festival event, he’s teaming up with Chopped judge and culinary powerhouse Amanda Freitag for an intimate, high-energy dinner showcasing their shared love for bold, well-executed flavors. If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat, expect handmade pasta dishes that will ruin you for the boxed stuff forever.
If you like your fine dining with a side of adventure, make a reservation at MAASS, the new concept from Michelin-starred chef Ryan Ratino. Known for pushing culinary boundaries, Ratino is joining forces with rustic Italian expert Stefano Secchi for an SOBEWFF dinner that promises to be anything but predictable. Think hyper-local ingredients, refined techniques, and dishes that feel both nostalgic and cutting-edge. If MAASS wasn’t already on your radar, it will be after this.
