The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival is back with a bang! After a challenging hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s festival promises to be a culinary extravaganza like no other. From October 19th to October 22nd, 2023, prepare to embark on a journey through the flavors of Martha’s Vineyard and beyond. Here, we'll take a closer look at the festival’s history, highlight some of its most exciting events, and give you a taste of what to expect this year.
The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival: A Delicious Comeback - A Bit of History
The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival has always been a celebration of the Island’s diverse culinary offerings, showcasing the talents of local and guest chefs alike. After the Beach Road Weekend Music Festival successfully attracted thousands of tourists to Martha’s Vineyard, the Edgartown Board of Trade joined forces with Innovation Arts & Entertainment (IAE), the company responsible for Beach Road Weekend, to bring the Food & Wine Festival to the next level. 
Photo by David Welch courtesy MV Food & Wine Festival
The festival was last held in 2019 but now it’s back with renewed vigor and a commitment to providing food and wine enthusiasts with an unforgettable experience. The festival organizers have collaborated with a21, renowned co-producers of the South Beach Food & Wine Festival and NYC Food & Wine Festival, known for their expertise in curating top chef talent participation and securing remarkable brand partnerships and sponsorships.
The Food and Wine Festival takes place over three days offering seven unique events. Tickets can be purchased separately for each event, and prices vary from $150 to $375. Let’s delve into the events happening during the festival!
The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival: A Delicious Comeback - Event Highlights
Grand Tasting Event - Opening Night Celebration - Thursday, October 19, 2023: “The Best of the Best”
The festival kicks off with a bang on October 19th with the Grand Tasting Event at the Harbor View Hotel. This event will feature a selection of the finest eateries near and far, including Atria, Back Door Donuts, Puritan & Company, Red Cat Kitchen, Bar Mezzana, and many more. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or an adventurous food lover, this event offers something for every palate.
Photo by David Welch courtesy MV Food & Wine Festival
For an even more exclusive experience, upgrade to the VIP Experience. Indulge in a champagne, caviar, and bellini station as you savor the best of the festival.
Private Dinner Series - Friday, October 20, 2023: An Evening at Bettini Restaurant
Embark on a gastronomic journey with a “Mother-Son Duo” at the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Private Dinner Series. Boston legend Chef Lydia Shire and her son, Chef Alex Pineda, join forces with Bettini’s Chef Juan Martinez to create an unforgettable tasting menu. Set against the backdrop of Edgartown Harbor at the luxurious Bettini, this intimate dining experience promises breathtaking views and a culinary adventure that will leave a lasting impression.
This experience also offers a VIP upgrade which includes a private pre-dinner reception featuring a private kitchen tour, a meet and greet with the chefs, curated specialty bites and cocktails, plus more!
Private Dinner Series - Friday, October 20, 2023: An Evening at Atria Restaurant
Although this event is already sold out, it’s worth mentioning. Atria Restaurant, with Executive Chef Christian Thornton and Special Guest Chefs, will surely leave a lasting impression on lucky attendees. 
Photo by David Welch courtesy MV Food & Wine Festival
Grand Tasting Event - Saturday, October 21, 2023: “Bounty of the Vineyard Harvest”
On October 21st, indulge in the bounty of Martha’s Vineyard. This event will feature culinary delights from top restaurants like Cariño Cuisine, Chaval, and Mad Martha’s Ice Cream.
Private Dinner Series - Saturday, October 21, 2023: An Evening at Red Cat Kitchen
This sold-out event at Red Cat Kitchen, with Executive Chef Ben Deforest and Special Guest Chefs, promises an exquisite dining experience.
Private Dinner Series - Saturday, October 21, 2023: An Evening at The Dunes
Embark on your culinary journey with a spectacular evening at The Dunes Restaurant, hosted by Executive Chef Richard Doucette, joined by Special Guest Chef Stephen Beile and Mixologist Jonathan Pogash. This final Dinner Series event offers a picturesque setting overlooking Edgartown Harbor at Winnetu Oceanside Resort. Chef Doucette’s culinary expertise, creativity, and training promise an unforgettable epicurean experience right by South Beach, making it a perfect way to cap off the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival.
Grand Tasting Event - Sunday, October 22, 2023: “Fruit of the Island Sea”
Dive into a seafood lover’s paradise at the Sunday Grand Tasting Event, “Fruit of the Island Sea,” where renowned chefs craft elevated seafood dishes. Explore the ocean’s bounty as succulent shrimp, briny oysters, decadent lobster, and more are transformed into culinary masterpieces, showcasing the chefs’ creativity. This event promises a feast of bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Photo by David Welch courtesy MV Food & Wine Festival
For an enhanced experience, upgrade to the VIP Experience and savor wine and oyster flights.
The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of culinary excellence, and this year’s comeback promises to be nothing short of spectacular and exceptionally delicious! With a rich history, a lineup of remarkable events, and strong partnerships, it’s an occasion you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a memorable getaway, mark your calendars for October 19th to 22nd, 2023, and get ready to savor the flavors of Martha’s Vineyard once again. It’s time to indulge in the Island’s finest cuisine and make lasting memories at this extraordinary festival.
Looking to buy tickets or learn more? Visit mvfoodandwine.com!
