7 Reasons to Attend the 12th Annual Austin Food & Wine Festival

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other! The 12th annual Austin Food & Wine Festival is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be an unmissable event for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. Here are the top 7 reasons why you should clear your calendar for November 4th and 5th, 2023, and make your way to the Auditorium Shores for this mouthwatering extravaganza:

Culinary Talent

Prepare to be wowed by a lineup of culinary giants from all corners of the country. With chefs, restaurants, and experts in wines and spirits converging under one roof, you’re in for a treat of epic proportions.

The festival’s main event, the Chef Showcase, features a dynamic roster of some of Texas’ most beloved and acclaimed chefs, each serving samples of signature dishes to festival attendees on either Saturday, Nov. 4, or Sunday, Nov. 5. Chef Showcase chefs include: Alma Alcocer (El Alma); Tano Avila (Grizzelda’s); Laila Bazahm (El Raval); Daniel Berg (Bill’s Oyster); Barrett Black (The Original Black’s BBQ); Daniel Brooks (Chapulin Cantina and Licha’s); Raul Castillo (Honey Moon Spirit Lounge); Ji Peng Chen (Wu Chow); Krystal Craig and Ian Thurwachter (Intero); Jakub Czyszczon (Garrison); Javier Equihua (MaCoCo’s); Nick Erven (Wax Myrtle’s); Roberto Espinosa (Tacodeli); Liz Everett and Stephanie Everett Martin (Ensenada ATX); Donnie Forehand (Swift’s Attic); Joseph Gomez (Con Todo); Dante Grogg (Juliet Italian Kitchen); Kris Hammond (Daiboku); Nico Harrison (Jacoby’s); Jeffrey Hundelt (Summer House on Music Lane); Dimitrios Kelesoglou (Yamas); Dan Kennedy (Vixen’s Wedding); Brian Light (Ronin Farm & Restaurant); Enma Lopez (ABW Can-tina); Geronimo Lopez (Botika); Justin Manzi (Goodfolks); Corey McEntyre (Milo); Allie McMillan (ATX Cocina); Jason McVearry (Poke-Poke); Yovani Mejia (Cruzteca Mexican Kitchen); Eric Nathal (Austin Rôtisserie); Anne Ng and Jeremy Mandrell (Bakery Lorraine); Brian Olenjack (Lonesome Dove); Alan Paryzek (Central Machine Works Brewery); Nicole Patel (Delysia Chocolatier); Colter Peck (Elementary ATX); Pedro Quevedo and Alex Swenson (Gelato Paradiso); Paul Qui, Moto Utsunomiya and Dominic Luzzo (East Side King); Ryan Samson (Vespaio); Jam Sanitchat (Thai Fresh); Anthony Sobotik and Kendall Melton (Lick Honest Ice Cream); Kevin Taylor (Bulevar); Noah Thibault (1417 French Bistro); Mike Warnock (The Dirdie Birdie); Nic Yanes and Janice Omadeke (Calibrate Wellness); and Kristina Zhao (DASHI Sichuan Kitchen + Bar).

Made In Texas Extravaganza

Saturday night’s “Made In Texas” event is the ultimate ode to Lone Star State flavors. Think tailgate vibes, Texas classics fresh off the grill, and a dining experience that captures the heart of Texas – all in one unforgettable evening.

Fire Pit Feasts

The Fire Pit portion of the festival features bites hot off the flames and the chance to interact with pitmasters and chefs cooking over live fire. Enjoy exceptional barbecue and other dishes cooked over an open flame and get firsthand advice from the pros. Featured chefs this year, with more to come, include: Adrian Abella and Camille De Los Reyes (Sari-Sari Supper Club), Vinnie Cimino (Cordelia), Jason Dady (Dady Restaurant Group), Leo Davila (Stixs & Stone), Harold Marmulstein (Salty Sow) and Esaul Ramos (2M Smokehouse BBQ), Meredith Shaffer (Tillie’s). 

Chef Demos & Insights

For those who crave culinary knowledge, the Chef Demos are a must-attend. Listen in as culinary stars like Anne Burrell and Tim Love share their expertise, tips, and tricks that have elevated them to the top of the culinary world.

Foodie Friends

Beyond the food and drinks, the festival exudes a vibrant atmosphere of live music, engaging conversations, and a shared passion for all things culinary. It’s an opportunity to connect with fellow food enthusiasts, make new friends, and celebrate the art of eating and drinking.

Chef Showcase

The Chef Showcase, the heart of the festival, is where Texas’ culinary stars shine brightest. With an array of beloved and acclaimed chefs serving up their signature dishes, this is your chance to savor the essence of Texas’ gastronomic scene.

The 12th annual Austin Food & Wine Festival promises a weekend of indulgence, learning, and unforgettable experiences. With a lineup of events that cater to every palate, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the world of flavors, wines, and spirits. Secure your tickets, bring your appetite, and get ready to create lasting memories at this culinary extravaganza.