Sometimes sequels are better than the original, and that rings true for the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival, which is making a return October 2 through 7. Founded in 2023, the festival celebrates San Diego’s unique culinary landscape, pairing the cross-border region’s booming food scene with SoCal’s vibrant active lifestyle culture.
With more than 25 offerings throughout the week, including a two-day tasting event, charitable golf and pickleball tournaments, and exclusive culinary experiences around the city, there’s plenty to love about the second-annual event. Plus, a portion of this year’s ticket sales will benefit Feeding San Diego once again.
At the Grand Tasting, held on October 5-6 at Surf Sports Park, more than 100 restaurants and 150 international wine, spirits, and beverage producers will showcase their best for attendees. Guests can enjoy bites and sips while mingling with celebrities, including Food Network stars, celebrity chefs, and professional athletes like two-time Olympic medalist Alex Morgan.
General admission for a one-day Grand Tasting pass is $165 but if you’re looking for the best-of-the-best, check out all the perks afforded VIP ticket-holders. Priced at $425 for one-day passes, the VIP experience includes the below offerings:
Saturday & Sunday
Bluefin Tuna Filleting Demonstration & Sashimi
On both days, VIPs can enjoy a fileting demonstration of an 80lb Bluefin tuna, led by master sushi chef Jeff Roberto, owner of Sushi On a Roll and Kyoto Japanese Market. Guests will also have the chance to sample fresh sashimi, highlighting the art of sushi-making.
First Glass by Whispering Rose
Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed with a complimentary glass of Whispering Rose, perfect for toasting to a fun-filled day in the sun.
Complimentary IVs from LIVV Natural & Med Spa
Guests can enjoy IV therapy from LIVV Natural & Med Spa, offering vitamin-rich fluids and nourishment to keep you on your feet and energized during the Grand Tasting.
DJ Sets
Both days, DJs will be spinning vinyl throughout the day in the VIP tent, including music from longtime San Diego radio personality Chris Cantore.
Saturday Only
VIP Host: Troy Johnson
Food Network personality (Guy’s Grocery Games, Iron Chef) and co-owner of San Diego Magazine, Troy Johnson, will emcee day one of the VIP Experience. Visit the VIP tent to chat with the longtime food critic and San Diego native.
First Bites with Celebrity Chef Lauren Lawless & Puesto
Celebrity Chef Lauren Lawless, known for her appearances on Food Network shows like Chopped and MasterChef, will be serving up wagyu tartare on crispy furikake rice. Puesto will also be in the VIP tent, offering zesty bites from their salsa and guacamole bar that might just be worth spoiling your appetite for.
VIP Reception
VIP ticket-holders get to enter the event before GA attendees and from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. can enjoy exclusive bites from Cucina Enoteca, Flawless Cuisine, Puesto, Sushi on a Roll, Warung RieRie, Seabreeze Craft Chocolates, and Lauren Lawless. Plus, drinks from Tapo Truck and premium rosé from Whispering Angel.
VIP Exhibitors
At 1 p.m., kick-off the festivities at the VIP tent offering even more exclusive food and beverage options such as: Amalfi Llama, Amaya at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Austin Hope Wines, Azuki Sushi, Booker Wines, Callie, Caymus Vineyards,The Cov Wine, Cowboy Star, Cuvaison Winery, DAOU Vineyards, 31ThirtyOne by Deckman’s, Despacio Mezcal, Domaine Ott, Ember & Rye, Fraiche Wine Group, Gagnon-Kennedy Vineyards, G.D. Vajra, Huntress, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Kobrand Wine & Spirits, Kingfisher, Kinme Omakase, The Marine Room, Marisi, Puesto, Pyramid Valley Vineyards, Ramey Wine Cellars, Rare Society, Robert Green Vineyards, Roma Norte, Four Seasons Aviara, The Setting Wines, Tap Truck, The Fishery, Warung RieRie, Valle, and Vinos Finos de California, and Whispering Angel Rosé.
Sunday Only
VIP Host: Alex Morgan
Recently retired San Diego Wave captain and two-time Olympic medalist Alex Morgan will host day two of the VIP Grand Tasting experience. Her involvement in the festival honors San Diego’s blend of sports and culinary culture, while also supporting her nonprofit which will be hosting mini golf and football activations during the Grand Tasting.
First Bites with Lola 55 & Crudo Cevichería & Oyster Bar
VIP guests arriving on Sunday will be welcomed with tacos from Michelin-recognized Lola 55, along with an irresistible ceviche and raw bar from Crudo Cevichería & Oyster Bar.
VIP Reception
Similar to Saturday’s events, come early from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy exclusive offerings from Cow by Bear, Crudo Cevicheria & Oyster Bar, Cucina Enoteca, The Grill Dads, Lola 55, Rock Angel, Sushi on a Roll, Tapo Truck, and Whispering Angel Rosé at the VIP reception.
VIP Exhibitors
On Sunday, check out the VIP wineries you missed the day before or enjoy new restaurants showcasing their fare on this day only. Restaurants exclusive to Sunday’s guests are: The Lodge at Torrey Pines, Nine-Ten, Ambrogio by Acquerello, Extraordinary Desserts, Paradisaea, Lumi, Red Tracton’s, Despacio Mezcal, and Garibaldi cocktails. Don’t worry, The Fishery, 31ThirtyOne by Deckman’s, Seasons Restaurant, the Amalfi Llama, and The Marine Room will also be back for day two.
The Grand Tasting will be held at the Del Mar Polo Fields (at Surf Sports Park) on Oct. 5-6. Get your one- or two-day VIP tickets at delmar.wine.
