by: Maryanne Salvat

Our visit to La Birra Bar Doral was the perfect way to spice up an otherwise ordinary Wednesday evening. The vibe? Casual, upbeat, and incredibly inviting for all ages. Whether you’re out with friends, on a date, or bringing the whole family, it’s the kind of place where everyone instantly feels at home. Guests flowed in steadily, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling Black Angus burgers filled the air—an instant mood booster.

We kicked things off with The Golden—juicy Black Angus Argentinian beef patties layered with American cheese, diced red onions, and their signature secret mayo. On the side: crispy sweet potato fries (a must), paired with chimichurri, mayo, and a hint of black truffle. Let’s just say… it was borderline out-of-body.

Meanwhile, others at the table went for the award-winning Crispy Dubai Burger—and yes, it lives up to the hype. Made with 100% Argentinian beef, white cheddar, La Birra Bar’s signature crispy onions, and a decadent house dressing featuring their family-recipe chimichurri, mayo, and a touch of black truffle, all on a freshly baked artisan bun. Every bite hits that perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and juicy.

Of course, we couldn’t skip dessert. Chocolate milkshakes and a warm brownie topped with vanilla ice cream made their way to the table—because… it’s Wednesday, and we’re calling it a cheat day.

Where to Find Them in South Florida

If you’re craving this burger magic, you can visit La Birra Bar Doral, La Birra Bar North Miami Beach, La Birra Bar Fort Lauderdale, La Birra Bar Weston, and La Birra Bar Wynwood—making it easy to get your fix no matter where you are in South Florida.

Why Everyone’s Talking About La Birra Bar

Founded in Argentina in 2001 by Daniel Cocchia, La Birra Bar started as a humble neighborhood burger spot in Boedo, Buenos Aires. Today, it’s grown into one of the most awarded burger brands in the world, known for its commitment to quality, creativity, and fully artisanal ingredients.

And the accolades keep coming. The brand’s Crispy Dubai Burger was crowned Overall Winner at the Inaugural Dubai Burger Championship, beating out top contenders from around the globe. Even more impressive? It also took home top honors at the 2026 Burger Bash during the South Beach Wine and Food Festival—and we were there to witness it.

Safe to say, this isn’t just hype—it’s well-earned.

Piper-Heidsieck returns to the Miami Open presented by Itaú for its third consecutive year, bringing its signature red flair courtside from March 15–29. Infusing the tournament with vibrant energy, bold flavors, and celebratory Champagne moments, the iconic House toasts every serve and rally in style.

Guests can sip on favorites like Cuvée Brut, Brut Rosé, and the Riviera Edition served over ice, alongside playful cocktails and indulgent treats like Champagne floats. Beyond the pours, immersive entertainment—from live Caribbean rhythms and Latin dance to French cabaret and Marilyn Monroe–inspired glamour—brings the brand’s theatrical spirit to life.

At the Champagne Garden, elevated bites take center stage with offerings from Chèvre Miami, including gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and the over-the-top “Golden Glizzy,” while Aubi & Ramsa adds a sweet finish with Champagne-infused sorbet.

Founded in 1785, Piper-Heidsieck is one of the world’s most awarded Champagne Houses, known for its bold, creative spirit and commitment to crafting wines that “smile.” With a legacy rooted in precision, innovation, and sustainability, the House continues to blend excellence with entertainment—bringing people together across more than 80 countries in celebration.

Blending sport, culture, and indulgence, Piper-Heidsieck transforms the Miami Open into a sparkling celebration both on and off the court.

The 25th Anniversary of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival wasn’t just a milestone — it was a full-bodied, bass-thumping, truffle-scented reminder that nobody throws a food festival like Miami. And in case anyone forgot, February 22 was officially declared Lee Schrager Day, honoring the festival’s fearless founder Lee Schrager — the man who turned South Beach into the culinary capital of February.

Let’s get into the bites, the beats, and the beautiful madness.

Mike’s Amazing Burger Bash Presented by Schweid & Sons

If you didn’t leave Burger Bash with the meat sweats and a only a couple of Tums left in your pocket, did you even go? 

Under the night sky, smoke rising and grills blazing, the festival’s most carnivorous crowd gathered for the main event — and once again, Burger Bash proved why it’s the crown jewel of the week. The vibe was fun, energetic and loud and the burgers were  delicious- down to the last bite. 

Hosted by the always adorable Rachael Ray alongside Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, the stage had serious star power. And the judges’ table wasn’t playing around either: Gayle King, Ashley Graham, Bert Kreischer (yes, shirt on… we checked), and Miami’s own Matt Kuscher came ready to crown greatness. 

Judges’ Choice: Classic Done Right 

NFA Burger — tucked inside a humble Chevron station in Dunwoody, Georgia — walked away with the big win thanks to their no-frills showstopper, the Billy Burger, named after owner Billy Kramer. 

Beef patty. Mustard. Pickles. “Sassy sauce.” Martin’s Potato Roll. That’s it. 

And somehow? Absolute perfection. The NFA philosophy is simple: do one thing and do it right. The judges clearly agreed.

People’s Choice: Miami Loves a Little Drama 

Miami favorite La Birra Bar snagged the People’s Choice Award with their unapologetically extra Crispy Dubai. 

We’re talking wagyu beef patties, white American cheese, crispy onions, Argentinian chimichurri mayo, and shaved black truffle. It was rich. It was indulgent. It was the kind of burger you think about the next day… while recovering. 

Honorable Mentions (Because Choosing Is Hard) 

With so many heavy hitters, we forced ourselves to narrow it down to two that had us contemplating elastic waistbands. 

Skinny Louie’s x Samantha Schnur (@naughtyfork) – The Naughty Burger

Double wagyu smash patty. American cheese. Maple bacon onion “damn jam.” Garlic dijonnaise. Pickled jalapeños. Buttered brioche. Oh — and truffle mayo tater tots on the side. It wasn’t just a burger. It was a full-on flavor explosion. Zero regrets. 

Cowy Burger – The Cabrito

Spanish chorizo, fried sweet potato straws, honey, goat cheese, and Cowy’s signature green sauce. Sweet, savory, crispy, creamy — basically everything you want in one glorious bite. Add waffle fries and call it a win. 

Honorable Dessert Mention: Nightowl Cookies OG Sticky Rolls with Butterscotch dipping sauce. 

By the end of the night, belts were loosened, selfies were taken, and the meat sweats were very, very real. 

And honestly? We’d do it all again.

Coca-Cola Presents Tournament of Champions Hosted by Guy Fieri with a Special Performance by Rev Run

Carnaval on the Mile returns March 7–8, 2026, transforming Miracle Mile into a vibrant, mile-long celebration of music, art, and culture. Presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, the free outdoor event features three live concert stages with international and award-winning performers, a curated showcase of fine art, crafts, photography, and jewelry, and a variety of culinary experiences. Families can also enjoy the Kidz Nook presented by Academica, offering interactive programming and the inaugural Carnaval Miami Greatest Kids Show.

Confirmed performers include Puerto Rican conga duo Daniel Díaz and Jafet Murguía with their band Los Potritos, American soul-jazz favorites The Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, trailblazing pianist and two-time Latin Grammy winner Tony Pérez, and Latin Grammy–winning violinist Daniela Padrón. This year’s poster artist is Maria Fernanda Vogel.

America’s Premier Food & Wine Celebration Returns This Week, Select Can’t-Miss Events Still Available February 19–22, 2026

Miami Beach, FLA. (February 17, 2026) – The countdown is officially on! The 25th annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®) returns this week for four days and nights of unforgettable food, drink, music and celebration. The star-studded event will showcase Food Network’s biggest culinary icons, Grammy Award-winning artists, popular lifestyle personalities, and more than 500 chefs, winemakers, and spirit producers all joining forces to EAT. DRINK. EDUCATE. As excitement builds for this milestone anniversary, taking place February 19–22, 2026, tickets are going fast, but Festival fans and foodies near and far still have a chance to snag tickets to some of the weekend’s most buzzed-about events.

From high-energy beachfront parties and legendary tastings to indulgent brunches and late-night celebrations, SOBEWFF®’s 25th anniversary promises the most exciting Festival yet. Though select events are already sold out, the following experiences still have limited tickets available:

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19

• Mike’s Amazing® Burger Bash presented by Schweid & Sons® hosted by Rachael Ray and Brooklyn Peltz Beckham celebrates 20 years on the sands of Miami Beach with over 30 burgers competing for the title of The Very Best Burger Award which will be selected by a notable panel of judges:
  • Ashley Graham
  • Bert Kreischer
  • Gayle King
  • Matt Kuscher
  • Nick DiGiovanni
  • Samantha Schnur
• A Taste of Italy presented by Pasta Rummo hosted by “The Pasta Queen” Nadia Caterina Munno and Scott Conant part of the Miami Design District Event Series is back with 15+ all-star chefs serving their Italian favorites.
• Goldbelly presents Diplo: Live from South Beach, Celebrating 25 Years of SOBEWFF® hosted by LIV Beach kicks off our milestone weekend with an electrifying beachfront performance by Diplo. For those looking to elevate the experience, a select number of VIP tables are still available, offering premium access to this unforgettable anniversary celebration.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20

• Festival favorite Guy Fieri returns to host Coca-Cola presents Tournament of Champions LIVE, as all five past champions from the hit Food Network series — Brooke Williamson, Maneet Chauhan, Mei Lin, Tiffani Faison and Antonia Lofaso — go head-to-head for ultimate bragging rights. Plus, hip-hop legend Rev Run of Run DMC takes the stage for an unforgettable performance.
• Signature event, Fontainebleau Miami Beach presents Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best sponsored by Cunard, brings together over 60 of the nation’s most acclaimed chefs and more than 65 of the world’s premier wineries.
• The Festival’s most sinful new event, Naughty Bites hosted by The Naughty Fork part of The Hangar Event Series, puts indulgence center stage with elevated comfort food and crave-worthy bites that feel luxe yet familiar.
• Let Them Eat Cake! A Sweet Celebration of 25 Years hosted by Duff Goldman celebrates 25 Years of SOBEWFF® with a showcase of whimsical cakes, imaginative desserts and decadent sweet creations, crafted by Miami’s best pastry chefs.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

• Chew on This: A Live Podcast Series presented by iHeartRadio takes over the iconic Miami Beach Bandshell for a unique Festival experience bringing five live podcasts to the stage throughout the day, each hosted by some of the most dynamic personalities in comedy, music, entertainment, and food.
• Katie Lee returns to host Sip & Swirl: A Wine Happy Hour at Joia Beach where close to a dozen stations will feature wines from around the world.
• Ashley Graham, Michael Pirolo, and Marc Vetri host Late Night Pizza Party sponsored by Lucci Lambrusco at Bar Bucce for a late-night, full-flavor pizza party where great food, great wine and great music collide.
• Masters of Fire hosted by Tyler Florence returns as a signature tent event celebrating SOBEWFF®’s 25th anniversary, offering guests an exhilarating outdoor cooking experience featuring a lineup of talented chefs who take grilling to the next level.
• Hosted by 2026’s Tribute Dinner honorees, Michelle Bernstein and Sacha Lichine, Final Pour: Tribute Dinner After Party will celebrate the two visionaries with great food, craft cocktails and a performance by Les Greene & The Swayzees.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22

• Andrew Zimmern, Robert Irvine, Kardea Brown, Aarón Sánchez and more will take the stage at Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village featuring Publix Culinary Demonstrations sponsored by Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove.
• THE WELL at Miami Tropic presents Coffee Culture: A Miami Wellness and Brunch Experience brewed by De’Longhi hosted by David Burtka and Neil Patrick Harris part of the Miami Design District Event Series offers a lineup of local Miami favorite bakeries, cafés and roasters.
• Family Sunday Chicken Parm Night at Jon & Vinny’s hosted by Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, is where classic Italian comfort will meet art, culture and great vibes for an easy outing with friends and family.
• Closing out the 25th anniversary, BACARDÍ presents 25 Years of Legendary Bites & Iconic Sips hosted by Andrew Zimmern with a special performance by DJ CASSIDY, unites the most iconic flavors, legendary chefs and unforgettable moments from the past 25 years for one spectacular night on the sand.

To date, the Festival has raised more than $45 million in support of its educational mission to provide an invaluable real-world experience and an interactive educational platform for future leaders of the hospitality industry at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU). Between SOBEWFF^® and its sister NYCWFF, more than $55 million has been raised to benefit the respective charities of each Festival. Beyond the funds raised, both Festivals draw attention to the vibrant dining cultures of their respective cities, provide economic stimulus in their communities, and serve as a platform to drive awareness and engagement for a wide array of philanthropic activities. Tickets for the Festival are On Sale NOW, with plenty of options to suit your taste and budget at sobewff.org. Stay up to date all year long by following @SOBEWFF on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.                                    

Burger lovers, this one’s for you!

Burgerliscious is back for its 14th year on Thursday, Feb 5, 5:30–9:30PM, taking over Alhambra Circle for a block-party showdown. Local favorites battle it out for Best in Bun and People’s Choice—with reigning champ PINCHO returning to defend the crown.

Expect juicy bites from spots like Ruth’s Chris, Bulla Gastrobar, Morton’s, ARCANO, Kitchen 57, Pinecrest Bakery, 450 Gradi and more, plus ice-cold Samuel Adams, a live DJ, and an epic set by Mad World Orchestra.

More information at burgerliscious.com and @burgerliscious_.