For food lovers, one of the hardest choices to make when traveling to a new city is what restaurants to hit while there. A way to sidestep having to make those tough decisions is to plan your trip around a food and wine festival.
These well-organized events take place all over the country throughout the year, and this spring, some will transport you to fantastic destinations, including Maui, Aspen and Austin. So, don’t forget to pack your favorite stretchy pants because there’s no shortage of good eats ahead.
• New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
When: March 18-22
One of America’s most unique cities, New Orleans is also a culinary capital. Here you can feast on creole and Cajun creations, taste influences from Spain, France and the Caribbean while experiencing a depth of culture unknown elsewhere. Over five days in March, the city turns up the hospitality and party atmosphere for a series of events such as the Grand Tastings, where a few dozen wineries pour and restaurants such as Antoine’s, Domenica, Brennan’s, Shaya, Gris-Gris, Meauxbar and Commander’s Palace dole out bites. Experiences including the Vinola wine event, peeping into French Quarter wine cellars and celebrating legendary restaurant Broussard’s 100th anniversary occur during the festival all around the Big Easy. You can purchase some individual event tickets, but for the full experience, NOWFE offers three packages ranging from $340 to $995.
• UNwineD Culinary Festival
When: March 20-21
While some food festivals feature plenty of eats and drinks, this one in Panama City Beach, Fla., adds in music (Death Cab for Cutie and Joywave) and the beautiful backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. Head to the Deep South for two days of deliciousness in Aaron Bessant Park, kicking off Friday night with a concert and party featuring recent “Top Chef” winner Kelsey Barnard Clark. Tickets are $175 each and include a private VIP bar and air-conditioned restrooms. Day two features the Grand Afternoon Tasting of treats from Northwest Florida chefs, plenty of drinks and the concert following the festivities. The tasting and concert cost $75.