The New York City Wine & Food Festival (NYCWFF 2025) is back from October 15–19, 2025, and it’s bigger than ever.
This five-day celebration is more than just eating and drinking; it’s a celebration of life. It’s a gathering of over 300 chefs, winemakers, mixologists, and culinary stars, all in one city that never stops feeding its people with new flavors and fresh ideas.
If you’re a serious foodie, this festival isn’t optional; it’s essential. Whether you’re searching for NYCWFF tasting events, star-studded dinners, brunches with celebrity chefs, or the best chef demonstrations in the country, this event covers it all.
Here’s why the New York City Wine & Food Festival tickets are among the hottest in town and why this is one of the best tourist things to do in NYC this fall.
1. It’s the City’s Premier Culinary Celebration
Few cities love food the way New York does, and NYCWFF 2025 reflects that passion. The festival spans five jam-packed days, featuring over 50 events that range from grand tastings to intimate wine dinners.
Every corner of the city lights up with energy. From rooftop parties to sit-down feasts with Michelin-starred chefs, the variety makes it impossible not to find something that fits your appetite.
It’s the ultimate guide for foodies, casual fans, and serious gourmets alike.
2. Over 300 Celebrity Chefs in One Place
Where else can you enjoy food created by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, sip cocktails designed by Padma Lakshmi, and laugh through a burger competition hosted by Rachael Ray and Brooklyn Beckham?
The NYCWFF celebrity chefs lineup is stacked. Expect appearances from:
· Marcus Samuelsson — A Taste of Tomorrow (Oct. 16)
Chef Marcus Samuelsson brings his global perspective to NYCWFF 2025 with A Taste of Tomorrow, an event that’s all about James Beard Award-recognized chefs and fine wines.
Set for Oct. 16 at 8:00 PM, this night celebrates innovation in the kitchen and the next generation of culinary leaders. Guests can expect bold flavors, refined pairings, and Samuelsson’s signature flair for storytelling through food.
· Bobby Flay & Brooke Williamson — Grand Tasting: After Dark (Oct. 18)
The festival’s daytime tastings are iconic, but this year introduces something new: Grand Tasting: After Dark. Hosted by Bobby Flay and Brooke Williamson on Oct. 18 at 7:00 PM, this party flips the script with late-night vibes.
Expect bold flavors, premium drinks, and live entertainment in a setting where the city truly comes alive. If you want a more energetic, nightlife-style take on NYCWFF, this is the one to attend.
· Stephanie Izard — Dinner with Lei Jiang (Oct. 17)
If you love bold, playful flavors, don’t miss Stephanie Izard and Lei Jiang’s dinner on Oct. 17 at 7:00 PM. Izard, known as the first woman to win Top Chef and for her Chicago restaurants, pairs up with Lei Jiang for a menu that brings together creativity, texture, and global influences.
This is one of the NYCWFF wine dinners that promises a balance of serious cooking skill and lighthearted fun.
· Andrew Zimmern — Catch of the Day: A Seafood Feast (Oct. 19)
On Sunday, Oct. 19, at 11:00 AM, Andrew Zimmern hosts Catch of the Day: A Seafood Feast, presented by Modelo. This event showcases seafood in all its forms, from shellfish towers to fresh catches cooked with bold flavors.
Zimmern is a master storyteller and educator, so expect not just a meal but also a deeper appreciation of how seafood connects cultures and communities. With the East River nearby, it’s the perfect setting for this feast.
For fans of Food Network, Bravo, or Michelin dining, this is like the Oscars of food, but you actually get to taste everything.
3. Tastings That Redefine What “Food Festival” Means
Let’s talk about the tastings. The NYCWFF tasting events aren’t just a few bites on paper plates. They’re full-on productions with premium wine, craft cocktails, and global cuisine.
Highlights include:
· Grand Tasting: Daytime Edition — Oct. 18
The Grand Tasting: Daytime Edition is the signature centerpiece of NYCWFF. Hosted by Sofía and Manolo Vergara, this all-day event on Oct. 18 brings together hundreds of wines, spirits, and bites from the city’s best restaurants.
Guests can wander through vendor booths, sample dishes from top chefs, sip on curated cocktails, and even catch live cooking demonstrations from Food Network stars. It’s the ultimate way to taste the festival in one stop.
· Grand Tasting: After Dark — Oct. 18
If you prefer your food festival with a nightlife edge, Grand Tasting: After Dark is the place to be. On Oct. 18 at 7:00 PM, Bobby Flay and Brooke Williamson host an evening that flips the Grand Tasting into a high-energy party.
Think bold flavors, exclusive tastings, DJs, cocktails flowing, and a lively crowd ready to celebrate New York’s food scene under the lights. It’s one of NYCWFF’s hottest tickets this year.
· Blue Moon Burger Bash 2.0 — Oct. 17
The Blue Moon Burger Bash is legendary, and this year it’s getting a major refresh. Hosted by Brooklyn Beckham and the always-iconic Rachael Ray, the event takes place on Oct. 17 at 7:00 PM.
Expect creative burgers from top chefs battling for the title of Best Burger in NYC, all paired with ice-cold Blue Moon brews. This event is where comfort food meets competition, and it’s one of the most talked-about highlights of NYCWFF every year.
· Tacos & Tequila — Oct. 18
On Oct. 18 at 7:00 PM, tacos take the spotlight. Brie Larson, Aarón Sánchez, and Courtney McBroom team up to host Tacos & Tequila, an event dedicated to one of the most beloved street foods.
Expect endless varieties of tacos, from traditional carne asada to innovative vegetarian creations, all paired with premium tequilas and mezcal cocktails. With music, energy, and flavor packed into every corner, it’s a fiesta within the festival.
If you buy just one set of New York City Wine & Food Festival tickets, make sure it’s to at least one of these tastings. They’re the heart of the festival.
4. NYCWFF Wine Dinners You’ll Remember Forever
The wine dinners at NYCWFF 2025 are legendary. These aren’t just meals; they’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences that pair rare wines with dishes crafted by culinary giants.
Standout dinners this year:
· Dinner with Eric Ripert — Oct. 17
On Oct. 17, seafood lovers are in for a rare treat. Eric Ripert, the Michelin-starred chef of Le Bernardin, brings his legendary approach to French cuisine to NYCWFF.
Guests can expect a refined multi-course dinner showcasing the freshest seafood, paired with world-class wines. Known for precision and artistry, Ripert’s dinner will be one of the festival’s most anticipated fine-dining experiences.
· Dinner with Alain Ducasse & Alberto Marcolongo — Oct. 18
Few names carry as much weight in the food world as Alain Ducasse. On Oct. 18, Ducasse joins Alberto Marcolongo for an extraordinary dinner that blends French culinary artistry with seasonal inspiration.
Guests will be treated to a tasting menu highlighting technique, heritage, and bold creativity. It’s a one-night-only chance to dine with one of the most influential chefs alive.
· Dinner with Vikas Khanna & Jacques Torres — Oct. 16
On Oct. 16, the festival spotlights an exciting collaboration. Vikas Khanna, renowned Indian chef and humanitarian, teams up with Jacques Torres, the “Mr. Chocolate” of New York.
Together, they’ll create a vibrant dining experience that merges Indian spices with decadent French desserts. This dinner promises a unique balance of savory and sweet, celebrating the global flavors that make NYC’s dining scene so special.
· James Beard House Dinner Series — Multiple Nights
The James Beard House Dinner Series is a centerpiece of NYCWFF 2025. Across multiple nights, the historic James Beard House will host intimate dinners with acclaimed chefs, including:
- Vijay Kumar— bringing bold, Southern Indian flavors.
- Eyal Shani— celebrated for his playful approach to Mediterranean street food.
- Dan Kluger— known for his New American style and dedication to local ingredients.
Each dinner offers a small-group experience in one of the most iconic food venues in the country. For true food lovers, these evenings are an unmatched way to connect with top chefs in a close setting.
For food lovers, these NYCWFF wine dinners are like front-row seats to history.
5. Hands-On Chef Demonstrations & Master Classes
Watching chefs on TV is fun. Watching them in person while they hand you a bite of what they just made? That’s unforgettable.
NYCWFF chef demonstrations bring a personal touch. You’re not just sitting in the audience; you’re learning tips, tasting dishes, and chatting with the pros.
Can’t-miss classes include:
· Muffin Master Class with Danielle Sepsy — Oct. 18
Chef Danielle Sepsy, founder of The Hungry Gnome and a fan favorite from The Big Brunch, will lead a hands-on class at the Institute of Culinary Education. Guests will learn how to mix, shape, and bake muffins that are moist, tender, and full of flavor.
Expect classic recipes alongside inventive twists that elevate this breakfast staple. The session ends with a cozy tasting paired with freshly brewed coffee, plus muffins to take home.
· Wild Game Master Class with The Modern Huntsman – October 18
On October 18, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at the Institute of Culinary Education, Chef Danny Christensen leads the Wild Game Master Class.
Known as the face of Modern Huntsman, Christensen brings bold, sustainable cooking straight from the wild. Guests will learn how to butcher and prepare wild game while hearing stories about ethical hunting and food sourcing.
Each attendee also receives a copy of Modern Huntsman’s acclaimed book.
These are the NYC food and wine festival highlights that foodies rave about year after year.
6. Brunches and Lunches Worth Waking Up For
Brunch is sacred in NYC, and the festival takes it to another level.
Some favorites this year:
· A Brunch Affair — Oct. 18
Few meals feel more indulgent than brunch, and Oct. 18’s Brunch Affair pulls out all the stops. Hosted by Food Network favorites Sunny Anderson, Katie Lee, Alex Guarnaschelli, Jeff Mauro, and Geoffrey Zakarian, this afternoon feast is pure star power.
Guests will taste everything from sweet pastries to hearty egg dishes, with plenty of cocktails and mocktails flowing. The chefs bring their own signature twists to classic brunch dishes, creating a spread that’s as fun as it is flavorful.
The vibe is lively, social, and a little glamorous. Perfect for those who love long brunches with a side of foodie flair.
· Marcus Samuelsson & Diego Oka Brunch — Oct. 19
On Oct. 19, Marcus Samuelsson, the acclaimed chef behind Red Rooster, teams up with Diego Oka, the celebrated Peruvian chef of La Mar, for a brunch that celebrates culture and creativity.
Expect dishes that merge Samuelsson’s soulful, global approach with Oka’s fresh, vibrant Latin flavors. This event, part of the Invesco Dining Series, promises bold plates, inventive pairings, and stories shared by two world-renowned chefs.
It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary conversation between two masters.
· Brunch with Daniel Rose — Oct. 18
Also on Oct. 18, chef Daniel Rose, best known for his acclaimed restaurants Le Coucou and La Bourse et la Vie, offers an elegant brunch experience. Rose is known for refined, French-inspired cooking that balances tradition with creativity.
Guests can expect beautifully plated dishes, classic flavors reimagined, and a more intimate setting than the larger brunch events. It’s a must for food lovers who want a touch of Paris in the heart of New York.
Whether you’re a pancakes-and-mimosas type or a fan of upscale dim sum, the brunches at NYCWFF are as memorable as the dinners.
7. After-Parties That Keep the Energy Going
Food festivals usually end when the plates are cleared. Not NYCWFF.
This year’s nightlife events include:
· Late Night Bites, Beats & Sweets with Elvis Duran — Oct. 17
On Oct. 17, the party doesn’t stop after dinner. Elvis Duran and the Z100 Morning Show crew host an unforgettable late-night event that mixes indulgence, music, and plenty of fun.
Guests can sample decadent desserts, crave-worthy late-night bites, and creative cocktails while the beats keep the energy high. Think gourmet comfort food meets sweet shop fantasy. All with a star-studded media host who knows how to keep a crowd entertained.
It’s the perfect way to cap off a Friday night at NYCWFF.
· Chef After Party: Sunset Tasting Happy Hour — Oct. 18
On Oct. 18, as the sun sets over the city, NYCWFF turns up the flavor with the Chef After Party Sunset Tasting. This isn’t just a happy hour; it’s where chefs, guests, and industry insiders gather to relax, sip, and savor.
Expect specialty cocktails, curated small plates, and a lively atmosphere that feels both celebratory and casual. It’s the kind of event that shows the social side of NYCWFF: connecting people through good food, drinks, and conversation in a stunning twilight setting.
Here’s where cocktails flow, DJs spin, and the food keeps coming. It’s a true New York-style night out. One that blends food, music, and community.
8. A Perfect Fit for Tourists
If you’re only in town for a short stay, this festival doubles as one of the best tourist things to do in NYC.
Pair your NYCWFF 2025 tickets with a one-day guided tour of New York City for the ultimate trip. Spend the morning at Central Park or the Brooklyn Bridge, and the evening at a tasting hosted by celebrity chefs.
Don’t forget to check out hidden places in New York while you’re here. That mix of tourist landmarks and foodie events is what makes NYC unforgettable.
9. Insider Foodie Tips for NYCWFF 2025
Want to get the most out of your tickets? Keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive early for tastings — the best bites go fast.
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking a lot.
- Plan your schedule — so many events overlap.
- Bring a small tote — for merch, recipes, and sometimes samples.
- Pace yourself — you don’t need to eat everything at once.
These NYCWFF foodie tips will help you maximize your weekend without missing the best moments.
10. It’s About More Than Food
At its core, NYCWFF 2025 is about community. The festival supports the James Beard Foundation and other organizations working toward a better food future.
So when you attend, you’re not just eating; you’re giving back. That makes every bite taste even better.
And in a city like New York, that sense of shared purpose is just as special as the food on your plate.
Final Word
The New York City Wine & Food Festival 2025 is the ultimate mix of food, wine, culture, and entertainment. From celebrity chef dinners to chef demonstrations, brunches, and after-parties, it’s everything a foodie could ask for in one unforgettable weekend.
Don’t wait too long. Tickets sell out fast, and you don’t want to miss the flavors everyone will be talking about all year.
For insider tips on the best tourist things to do in NYC, including one-day guided tour options and hidden places in New York, check out VisitNYC.com to make the most of your trip.
