🍷 Savoring Every Moment: My Culinary Journey Through the                              International Food & Wine Festival

Images by Getty If joy had a flavor, it would taste like the International Food and Wine Festival. This year’s celebration was a dazzling fusion of culinary artistry, cultural storytelling, and star-powered moments that left me full—in every sense of the word.

✨ Star-Studded Sit-Downs & Sips

The weekend kicked off with a refined sit-down dinner hosted at the Bank of America pavilion, where culinary royalty mingled with rising stars. Martha Stewart graced the evening with her signature elegance, joined by two phenomenal women chefs whose dishes spoke volumes about heritage, innovation, and heart. Their menu was a masterclass in elevated comfort—each bite a tribute to resilience and creativity.  

🌏 Global Bites & Themed Nights

From the spice-laced aromas of Asian Theme Night to the bold zest of Tacos & Tequila, every corner of the festival offered a passport to flavor. FoodieCon was a playground for culinary influencers and curious palates alike, while the Seafood Feast served up oceanic indulgence—clams, tuna, and even escovitch sauce made fresh before our eyes. Speaking of which… I had the pleasure of meeting the ever-charming Kwame Onwuachi. He demonstrated how to slice tuna and hamachi with precision and flair, then whipped up a vibrant escovitch sauce that had the crowd swooning. He was funny, magnetic, and yes—cute.  

@beautywithinmagazine

At the International Food and Wine Expo, acclaimed chef Kwame Onwuachi delivered a standout demonstration, preparing a vibrant raw fish dish featuring hamachi and tuna. He paired it with his signature escovitch sauce—a bold blend of carrot juice, ginger, garlic, honey, and fiery scotch bonnet peppers—finished with a touch of caviar. The dish reflected the spirit of Tatiana, Onwuachi’s celebrated restaurant at Lincoln Center, where Afro-Caribbean flavors meet New York soul. tatianabykwamewonwuachi,internationalfoodandwinefestival, hamachi, afrocaribbeanfood, #kwameonwuachi

♬ Soca Music – Memê no Beat

 

🍔🍜🍷 A Culinary Kaleidoscope

The food lineup was nothing short of spectacular:

• Tacos bursting with flavor
• Delicate dumplings
• Juicy hamburgers
• Matcha waffles paired with crispy chicken
• Creamy pasta dishes
• Fresh seafood galore
• And the surprise hit—wine popsicles that turned heads and cooled spirits

Let’s not forget the wine tastings. From bold reds to crisp whites and playful rosés, the pours were generous and the pairings divine. Each sip told a story, and every vineyard had its moment to shine.

🤝 Sponsors, Chefs & Community

The festival was made possible by a dynamic mix of sponsors and investors who believe in the power of food to connect and inspire. Bank of America led the charge, joined by other generous partners who helped elevate the experience. But this wasn’t just a celebration of indulgence—it was a gathering with heart. At the center of it all stood the festival’s beneficiary, the James Beard Foundation, a powerful force in the culinary world for over 30 years. Their mission? To champion a more equitable, sustainable, and independent restaurant industry—one that reflects the soul of American culture, community, and creativity. The festival’s energy and generosity helped shine a spotlight on their work, reminding us that food is not only nourishment, but a vehicle for change. Marcus Samuelsson and a host of celebrated chefs brought their magic to the table, reminding us that food is both art and activism.  

 

I left the festival with a full belly, a happy heart, and a renewed appreciation for the culinary world’s ability to bring people together. From laughter-filled demos to elegant dinners and spicy street eats, it was a weekend of indulgence, inspiration, and unforgettable flavors.

 

@beautywithinmagazine

I attended the International Food & Wine Festival—a vibrant celebration of global flavors, culinary artistry, and unforgettable experiences. From street-style tacos to gourmet dumplings, every day offered something new, with themed nights, expert chefs, and delicious discoveries around every corner. internationalfoodandwinefestival, culinary, foodfestival, kwameonwuachi, #nyceats

♬ Latin-style guitar that feels melancholy, rush, run(1396879) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

Until next year, Food & Wine Festival—keep the wine chilled and the escovitch sizzling.