Nothing could be more thrilling for local and regional foodies than to announce “Whiskey Wine & Wildlife” — a new culinary weekend festival coming to Vilano Beach on Nov. 4-6. For three days, the events that have been created just for this event offer, among other scheduled interactive experiences, master classes with cookbook authors and beverage experts, whiskey and spirit tastings, wine pairings, creative culinary tastings, cooking demos and a grand finale brunch at one of Northeast Florida’s historic hotels (circa 1888).
Preceding the three-day event, many regional chefs matched skills in a culinary competition. Four judges gathered in Vilano Beach to meet with, sample and vote for the winning chefs and restaurants. The participating restaurants were Michael’s St. Augustine, Lotus Noodle Bar, Blacksheep Restaurant Group, Costa Brava, Catch 27, Cap’s on the Water, The Reef, Beaches at Vilano, Silkie’s Chicken & Champagne Bar, Amici Italian Restaurant, Odd Birds Kitchen & Cocktail Lounge and Vilano Main Street Diner. Winners will be announced soon.
A tasty glimpse into the sampling of their dishes included: smoked shrimp chimichurri with boiled peanut hummus, pan-seared scallops served over sweet potato gnocchi, jambalaya with blackened chicken, andouille sausage and scallops, chicken and waffles served on churro-style waffle with pimento cheese butter and pickled pineapple on the side.
The festival artfully combines our culinary superstars with a chance to experience coastal wildlife up close at the GTM Reserve while raising funds and awareness for Vilano Beach Main Street. Private guided tours will be offered at the GTM Reserve showcasing programs from sea turtles to alligators — along with oceanside musical entertainment and the relaxed Vilano Beach vibe.
Sip, savor and join the mouthwatering fun. It’s a ‘spirited’ oceanside and riverfront celebration.
Whiskey Wine & Wildlife is made possible in part by support from the St. Johns Tourism Development Council.
To join the fun, purchase tickets at www.WhiskeyWineandWildlife.com.
