The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival: A Delicious Comeback 

The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival is back with a bang! After a challenging hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s festival promises to be a culinary extravaganza like no other. From October 19th to October 22nd, 2023, prepare to embark on a journey through the flavors of Martha’s Vineyard and beyond. Here we’ll take a closer look at the festival’s history, highlight some of its most exciting events, and give you a taste of what to expect this year – The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival: A Delicious Comeback

The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival: A Delicious Comeback – A Bit of History

The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival has always been a celebration of the Island’s diverse culinary offerings, showcasing the talents of local and guest chefs alike. After the Beach Road Weekend Music Festival successfully attracted thousands of tourists to Martha’s Vineyard, the Edgartown Board of Trade joined forces with Innovation Arts & Entertainment (IAE), the company responsible for Beach Road Weekend, to leverage their marketing and logistical prowess to bring the Food & Wine Festival to the next level. Subsequently, IAE collaborated with a21, renowned co-producers of the South Beach Food & Wine Festival and NYC Food & Wine Festival, distinguished as top producers of culinary events in North America. A21 is celebrated for its skill in curating top chef talent participation and securing remarkable brand partnerships and sponsorships. The festival was last held in 2019 but now it’s back with renewed vigor and a commitment to providing food and wine enthusiasts with an unforgettable experience.

The Food and Wine Festival takes place over three days offering seven unique events. Tickets can be purchased separately for each event, and prices vary from $150 to $375. Let’s go over the events happening during the festival! 

The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival: A Delicious Comeback – Event Highlights

Grand Tasting Event – Opening Night Celebration – Thursday, October 19, 2023: “The Best of the Best” 

The festival kicks off with a bang on October 19th with the Grand Tasting Event at the Habor View Hotel. This event will feature a selection of the finest eateries near and far, including Atria, Back Door Donuts, Puritan & Company, Red Cat Kitchen, Bar Mezzana, and many more. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or an adventurous food lover, this event offers something for every palate.

For an even more exclusive experience, upgrade to the VIP Experience, which includes priority access, a private VIP lounge with curated wine and food pairings, specialty cocktails, poolside seating, and a limited-edition gift bag filled with take-home treats. Indulge in a champagne, caviar, and bellini station as you savor the best of the festival.

 It’s your opportunity to sample some of the Island’s most exquisite dishes and savor the unique flavors of Martha’s Vineyard. Get ready to be wowed by the culinary talents that await you.

Private Dinner Series – Friday, October 20, 2023: An Evening at Bettini Restaurant Embark on a gastronomic journey with a “Mother-Son Duo” at the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Private Dinner Series. Boston legend Chef Lydia Shire and her son, Chef Alex Pineda, join forces with Bettini’s Chef Juan Martinez to create an unforgettable tasting menu. Set against the backdrop of Edgartown Harbor at the luxurious Bettini, this intimate dining experience promises breathtaking views and a culinary adventure that will leave a lasting impression. 

This experience also offers a VIP upgrade which includes a private pre-dinner reception featuring a private kitchen tour, a meet and greet with the chefs, curated specialty bites and cocktails, plus more! 

Private Dinner Series – Friday, October 20, 2023: An Evening at Atria Restaurant Although this event is already sold out, it’s worth mentioning. Atria Restaurant, with Executive Chef Christian Thornton and Special Guest Chefs, will surely leave a lasting impression on lucky attendees.

Grand Tasting Event – Saturday, October 21, 2023: “Bounty of the Vineyard Harvest” 

On October 21st, indulge in the bounty of Martha’s Vineyard. It’s currently sold out but we hope they’ll be releasing more tickets! This event will feature culinary delights from top restaurants like Cariño Cuisine, Chaval, and Mad Martha’s Ice Cream.

Private Dinner Series – Saturday, October 21, 2023: An Evening at Red Cat Kitchen This sold-out event at Red Cat Kitchen, with Executive Chef Ben Deforest and Special Guest Chefs, promises an exquisite dining experience.

Private Dinner Series – Saturday, October 21, 2023: An Evening at The Dunes Embark on your culinary journey with a spectacular evening at The Dunes Restaurant, hosted by Executive Chef Richard Doucette, joined by Special Guest Chef Stephen Beile and Mixologist Jonathan Pogash. This final Dinner Series event offers a picturesque setting overlooking Edgartown Harbor at Winnetu Oceanside Resort. Chef Doucette’s culinary expertise, creativity, and training promise an unforgettable epicurean experience right by South Beach, making it a perfect way to cap off the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival

Grand Tasting Event – Sunday, October 22, 2023: “Fruit of the Island Sea” 

Dive into a seafood lover’s paradise at the Sunday Grand Tasting Event, “Fruit of the Island Sea,” where renowned chefs craft elevated seafood dishes. Explore the ocean’s bounty as succulent shrimp, briny oysters, decadent lobster, and more are transformed into culinary masterpieces, showcasing the chefs’ creativity. With featured restaurants and food purveyors including Fish MV, ArtFoodLife, Batello, Primo Restaurant, and others, this event promises a feast of bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

For an enhanced experience, upgrade to the VIP Experience, offering one-hour advance access, a private lounge with curated wine and food pairings, specialty cocktails, and a commemorative limited-edition credential. Don’t miss the chance to savor wine and oyster flights

The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of culinary excellence, and this year’s comeback promises to be nothing short of spectacular, and exceptionally delicious! With a rich history, a lineup of remarkable events, and strong partnerships, it’s an occasion you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a memorable getaway, mark your calendars for October 19th to 22nd, 2023, and get ready to savor the flavors of Martha’s Vineyard once again. It’s time to indulge in the Island’s finest cuisine and make lasting memories at this extraordinary festival.

Looking to buy tickets or learn more? Visit mvfoodandwine.com!