OK so now that THE weekend’s over, are you in the mood for a food festival that doesn’t require a “survival guide”? How about something that doesn’t necessitate the logistical planning of an international vacation? The Coral Gables Wine & Food Festival will cleanse your palate.
On Thursday, March 27, thirty or so Coral Gables restaurants will dish out samples while a live band plays. You can taste and buy cases of wine from Republic National Distributing and Crown Wine & Spirits.
Last year, I arrived early and tasted a satisfying amount of food before there were any lines. It did get crowded later, but the vibe was still more of a leisurely stroll than a test of endurance. I just headed to my top picks first, to make sure I didn’t have to wait. When there were lines, they tended to move quickly. Last year, I particularly enjoyed the lobster pasta from Randazzo’s Little Italy and the creamy pumpkin bisque from Ortanique.
My recommendations for this year? Skip the Quizno’s (yes, Quizno’s) table, go easy on the wings from The Bar (although it’s hard to stop) and head for Randazzo’s Little Italy, Ortanique, Cacao, La Cofradia, Anacapri, and Chuao Choclatier. This year, I’m eager to try the dishes from festival newcomers Christabelle’s Quarter, Ideas, and Yuga.
When: Thursday March 27
Where: 100 block of Giralda Avenue between Ponce de Leon and Galiano
Price: $50, benefiting the American Lung Association and Miller School of Medicine
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You’ve convinced me (particularly as it’s so close to home for me). What do you think of the VIP bit? Any idea if it’s worth the extra hundred bucks?