Newport Beach, CA – Hundreds of food lovers gathered on Saturday, September 23rd, at the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort for the Pacific Wine & Food Classic. The much-anticipated event attracted food enthusiasts from all over Southern California. With an array of flavors and a stunning seaside setting, it promised a delightful experience for everyone. The perfect weather added to the joy as the warm sun shone down on the waterfront, creating an ideal atmosphere for tasting, sipping, and enjoying live entertainment.
The event, held annually, is a celebration of the best in local cuisine, fine wines, and craft cocktails. It showcased a variety of gourmet dishes from top chefs and restaurants in the region. Attendees had the opportunity to taste a wide selection of wines from local and international vineyards. The Pacific Wine & Food Classic has become a must-attend event for those who appreciate quality food and drink.
A Feast for the Senses
Upon entering the event, attendees were greeted with an overwhelming variety of culinary creations. The selection of food was vast, from seafood to barbeque, fresh salads to decadent desserts. The event featured more than 20 of Southern California’s best chefs, each offering their own unique twist on classic dishes.
Many local favorites made an appearance, including Oak Grill, A Market, and The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. Chef favorites were serving dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every bite was bursting with flavor. The food options ranged from freshly grilled seafood to innovative vegetarian options, catering to all tastes.
Some standout dishes included a fresh shrimp ceviche, wood-fired pizzas, gourmet tacos, and rich pasta dishes. The seafood was especially popular, with oysters, ahi poke, and lobster rolls drawing long lines. Dessert stations offering artisanal chocolates, cupcakes, and fruit-topped pastries provided a sweet end to the meal.
Wines and Cocktails Flow Freely
Alongside the gourmet food offerings were numerous booths featuring wines and craft cocktails. Wine lovers were thrilled to sample from a variety of premium vineyards, both local and international. Napa Valley favorites were present alongside wines from the Central Coast and international selections from France, Italy, and Argentina.
In addition to wine, guests were treated to creative cocktails made with fresh ingredients. Local distilleries and bars offered a range of spirits, including gin, whiskey, and tequila-based drinks. Popular choices included the refreshing margaritas, rum punch, and elderflower spritzes, which were perfect for the sunny, beachside setting.
For those who preferred non-alcoholic beverages, there were also fresh juices, flavored sparkling waters, and mocktails available.
Entertainment and Relaxation
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic didn’t just focus on food and drinks. The event also offered live entertainment to keep the energy high. Local bands played live music throughout the day, providing a laid-back soundtrack to the culinary experience. The beautiful Newport Dunes Waterfront provided the perfect backdrop, and many guests took advantage of the seating areas with beach views to relax between tastings.
The event also offered cooking demonstrations by some of the chefs. These sessions gave food lovers a chance to learn tips and tricks directly from the experts. Watching the chefs prepare fresh, flavorful dishes right in front of them was an exciting experience for attendees looking to improve their own culinary skills.
A Day to Remember
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic at Newport Dunes was a hit with attendees, many of whom left with smiles on their faces and full stomachs. The combination of excellent food, flowing drinks, and perfect weather made it a memorable day for everyone. Many attendees shared their excitement on social media, praising the variety of food and drink options, the friendly atmosphere, and the stunning location.
For foodies and wine lovers alike, this annual event continues to be a highlight of the season. As the sun set over the water, the last of the guests trickled out, already looking forward to next year’s celebration of food, wine, and fun.
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic once again delivered a feast for the senses, leaving everyone who attended eagerly awaiting its return in 2024.