Southern California’s most anticipated culinary celebration is back, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. The Pacific Wine & Food Classic returns to Newport Dunes on Saturday, September 20, 2025, marking the 8th annual edition of this award-winning event that has become synonymous with coastal luxury and exceptional gastronomy.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, this year’s festival is rolling out the red carpet for what organizers are calling “restaurant royalty”—the incredible local chefs and restaurants that shape Southern California’s vibrant food scene. It’s a celebration that puts homegrown talent front and center, showcasing the extraordinary culinary artistry that happens right in our own backyard.
New Experiences That Will Blow Your Mind
This year’s Pacific Wine & Food Classic isn’t just returning—it’s evolving. The biggest buzz surrounds The Dessert Garden, a completely fresh concept that transforms the traditional dessert experience into something magical. Picture this: a strollable sweet oasis where creativity literally blooms in every bite. It’s not just about desserts; it’s about celebrating the artistry that goes into creating these edible masterpieces.
But the innovations don’t stop there. The festival is also debuting the Paso Robles Lounge Experience, a sophisticated showcase dedicated to the extraordinary wines of Paso Robles Wine Country. This isn’t your typical wine tasting—it’s an immersive journey through one of California’s most celebrated wine regions, bringing the vineyard experience directly to the Newport Beach coastline.
And then there’s the showstopper that has everyone talking: a 20-foot hand-crafted charcuterie experience presented by Lover Boards. We’re talking about a charcuterie display so massive and meticulously crafted that it becomes an attraction in itself. It’s the kind of Instagram-worthy moment that food lovers dream about.
Culinary Excellence from Local Legends
The heart of the Pacific Wine & Food Classic has always been its commitment to showcasing local talent, and this year takes that mission to new heights. More than 35 of the region’s most distinguished chefs will be serving up bold bites that represent the best of Orange County’s culinary landscape.
“This year, we’re rolling out the red carpet for our very own ‘restaurant royalty’—the many local chefs and restaurants that play a role in shaping Southern California’s vibrant food scene,” explains Pamela Waitt, President of OC Restaurant Association and founder of the Pacific Wine & Food Classic.
What makes this approach so compelling is the focus on authenticity. Instead of flying in celebrity chefs from distant cities, the festival celebrates the culinary masters who are actually defining Southern California cuisine every single day. These are the chefs who understand the local ingredients, the coastal influences, and the unique food culture that makes Orange County a gastronomic destination.
The diversity of offerings promises to be remarkable, spanning everything from innovative fusion concepts to refined California cuisine, from artisanal small plates to bold, flavor-forward creations that push culinary boundaries. Each participating chef brings their own signature style and culinary philosophy, creating a tapestry of flavors that tells the story of modern Southern California dining.
A Beverage Program That Sets the Bar High
The liquid side of the equation is equally impressive. With more than 100 wines and beers available for tasting, the Pacific Wine & Food Classic offers one of the most comprehensive beverage experiences on the West Coast. The selection spans the spectrum from boutique local wineries to established regional producers, ensuring there’s something for every palate and preference.
The festival’s commitment to creative cocktails and mocktails from nearly a dozen spirits brands adds another layer of sophistication to the experience. This isn’t about basic mixed drinks—we’re talking about carefully crafted cocktails that showcase premium spirits and innovative mixology techniques.
The inclusion of mocktails is particularly noteworthy, recognizing that the modern beverage landscape includes increasingly sophisticated non-alcoholic options. These aren’t afterthoughts; they’re carefully crafted drinks that deliver complexity and flavor without the alcohol, ensuring that every guest can fully participate in the tasting experience.
The Perfect Setting for Culinary Indulgence
Location matters, and Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort provides the ideal backdrop for this level of culinary celebration. The warm sands and picturesque waterfront setting create an atmosphere that’s uniquely Southern California—relaxed yet refined, casual yet sophisticated.
The outdoor setting embraces the region’s year-round pleasant weather and laid-back coastal lifestyle. There’s something magical about enjoying world-class cuisine and premium beverages with your toes in the sand and the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. It’s the kind of setting that turns a food festival into a complete sensory experience.
The event takes place rain or shine, demonstrating the organizers’ commitment to delivering the experience regardless of weather conditions. This outdoor festival format also allows for the kind of spacious, comfortable environment that encourages mingling, exploration, and the relaxed enjoyment that defines the California lifestyle.
An Event Designed for Quality Over Quantity
One of the distinguishing features of the Pacific Wine & Food Classic is its deliberate approach to capacity management. Tickets are intentionally limited to ensure what organizers call “an absolute quality experience, free from overcrowding.” This philosophy permeates every aspect of the event planning and execution.
The result is an intimate yet expansive celebration where guests can actually interact with chefs, spend time at each station, and fully appreciate the artistry being presented. It’s the difference between a rushed sampling experience and a true culinary journey.
This attention to guest experience extends to every detail, from the layout and flow of the event space to the timing and presentation of each culinary offering. The goal is to create an environment where food and wine lovers can fully immerse themselves in the experience without feeling rushed or crowded.
Industry Recognition and Cultural Impact
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic has earned recognition as more than just another food festival. It’s become an important platform for showcasing and supporting the local culinary ecosystem. For participating chefs and restaurants, the event provides valuable exposure and the opportunity to connect directly with food enthusiasts and industry professionals.
The festival also serves as a celebration of Orange County’s evolution as a serious culinary destination. Gone are the days when the region was overshadowed by Los Angeles or San Francisco dining scenes. Events like the Pacific Wine & Food Classic help establish Orange County as a legitimate food and wine destination in its own right.
The economic impact extends beyond the festival itself, driving tourism and highlighting the broader culinary landscape that visitors can explore throughout their stay in the region. It’s cultural marketing at its finest—using exceptional experiences to tell a larger story about place and community.
Mark Your Calendar and Secure Your Spot
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic takes place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort (1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660). All guests must be 21 or older with valid ID to attend.
Tickets are available online at pacificwineandfood2025.eventbee.com, but given the event’s popularity and intentionally limited capacity, early purchase is strongly recommended. The combination of premium experiences, limited availability, and growing reputation means tickets typically sell out well in advance.
For more information about the festival, including the full list of participating chefs and restaurants that will be announced in the coming weeks, visit pacificwineandfood.com.
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic represents everything we love about Southern California’s food culture—innovation, quality, community, and the perfect marriage of exceptional cuisine with an unbeatable setting. As we gear up for another unforgettable edition, it’s clear that this festival has secured its place as one of the region’s most important culinary celebrations.
Whether you’re a serious foodie, wine enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional experiences, the Pacific Wine & Food Classic delivers on every level. It’s not just a festival—it’s a celebration of everything that makes Southern California cuisine special.
