A new champion emerged in the master mixologist showdown at the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival. The VLFWF welcomed more than 17,000 guests from every state, 150 restaurants, celebrity chefs, mixologists and culinary talents during its seven-day run in January. The new champion in master mixologist showdown, aka Bar Fight! A Spirited Competition, was Diego Calvo of The Restaurant People. His Flatlander’s Stolen Honey cocktail was a combination of Vermont’s Barr Hill Gin, Stowe Cider, Pumpkin Seed Milk and Honey-Maple Cinnamon, and Florida lemon.
Myles Robinson and Nicolette Bonkowski were runners up. The event was presented by the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority and held at Rooftop @1WLO.
Bar Fight is just one of the VLFWF Signature Events. The festival attracts thousands of foodie fans during the week-long line up of culinary classes, chef-led dinners, annual favorites like the Poolside BBQ Battle and new to this year Wok ‘n Roll, all culminating at the Grand Tasting.
A new contender claimed the title of the “Poolside BBQ Champion.” Apocalypse BBQ swept the fan favorite and judges choice for the title. The cookoff – also presented by the DDA – took place at Hyatt Centric Las Olas.
The inaugural Wok ‘n Roll event sold out as it celebrated Asian flavors during a street food-style experience paired with entertainment from Polynesian Proud and Spank the Band. The event with more than 10 local Asian restaurants and spirits brands was held at Backyard in partnership with Two Happy Buddha’s.
The Grand Tasting welcomed celebrity talents, including award-winning chef, TV personality, author and philanthropist Chef Aarón Sánchez. Sharing the stage were celebrity chefs Jason Smith and Nancy Fuller. Chef Nicole Layog cooked up a lively demonstration as well.
Next year’s event will take place Jan. 13-19. For the latest updates, follow @VLFoodWine on Facebook and Instagram (#VLFWF). Visit VLFoodWine.com for limited-time special pricing and updates.
