Now in its 21st year, this original San Diego food festival has grown into one of the largest culinary events in the nation, drawing more than 11,000 attendees and an extraordinary roster of talent. James Beard Award winners, Michelin-starred chefs, Food Network personalities, and global culinary leaders from both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border will converge on San Diego for eight days of tastings, panels, pop-ups, and unforgettable events.
This year introduces bold new elements including the first-ever Wellness Weekend at Fox Point Farms, featuring nutrient-rich dishes and zero-proof cocktails; the Forkcast: Future of Food Summit, where industry leaders discuss sustainability and policy; and a special live filming of Jason the Butcher during the Grand Tasting. Beloved traditions also return, including the Grand Decant, Grand Fiesta, and the massive Grand Tasting on San Diego Bay.
Festival-goers can expect to sample from more than 800 world-class wines and spirits, ranging from Baja and Paso Robles to France, Spain, and beyond. Culinary icons set to appear include Elijah Arizmendi (Lucien, La Jolla), Darryl Bell (Stateline Road Smokehouse, Napa Valley), Maynard Llera (Kuya Lord, LA), Roberto Alcocer (Valle, Oceanside), Tara Monsod (Le Coq, La Jolla), and Drew Deckman (Concha de Piedra, Valle de Guadalupe), along with dozens more from across North America.
Anchoring the festival are the three marquee events: the Grand Decant (November 7), the Grand Tasting presented by Southwest Airlines (November 8), and the Grand Fiesta (November 9). Each delivers an immersive celebration of food, wine, and culture, featuring celebrity chefs, Michelin-honored restaurants, live music, and exclusive tastings.
Anchoring the festival are the three marquee events: the Grand Decant (November 7), the Grand Tasting presented by Southwest Airlines (November 8), and the Grand Fiesta (November 9). Each delivers an immersive celebration of food, wine, and culture, featuring celebrity chefs, Michelin-honored restaurants, live music, and exclusive tastings.
SanDiegoVille readers can save on tickets to the three marquee events with an exclusive promo code. Use code SDVILLE to get $10 off each single-event ticket for the Grand Decant, Grand Tasting, and Grand Fiesta. This discount does not apply to packages but is valid for individual tickets to these flagship events.
Beyond indulgence, the festival also carries impact. Over its two decades, it has raised more than $600,000 in scholarships and grants for culinary, oenology, and hospitality programs, supporting the next generation of food and beverage leaders.
The San Diego Food + Wine Festival runs November 2–9, 2025, at venues across the city, with the Grand Tasting taking place at Embarcadero Marina Park North. For tickets, schedules, and more information, visit sandiegowineclassic.com and follow @sdfoodwine on social media.
Beyond indulgence, the festival also carries impact. Over its two decades, it has raised more than $600,000 in scholarships and grants for culinary, oenology, and hospitality programs, supporting the next generation of food and beverage leaders.
The San Diego Food + Wine Festival runs November 2–9, 2025, at venues across the city, with the Grand Tasting taking place at Embarcadero Marina Park North. For tickets, schedules, and more information, visit sandiegowineclassic.com and follow @sdfoodwine on social media.
Originally published on September 14, 2025.