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Las Olas Wine & Food Festival – REVIEW

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Savoring Success: 28th Annual Las Olas Wine & Food Festival Delights Fort Lauderdale.

April 19th, 2024

From downtown Fort Lauderdale, the return of the Las Olas Wine & Food Festival (LOWFF) was another indulgent success. With tasting pavilions stretching out across both sides of iconic Las Olas Boulevard, from SE 6th Avenue to SE 11th Avenue, LOWFF offered booth after booth of endless bites from the best local restaurants, sips of spirits, wine, beer, seltzers, juices, plenty of dessert options and so much more.

As Fort Lauderdale’s premier charitable wine and food experience, proceeds from LOWFF assist in the funding of research and educational programming for American Lung Association of South Florida, whose mission is to create a better future for those living with lung cancer and other chronic respiratory diseases including COPD and asthma.

Clear skies and mild weather played a perfect backdrop for the local foodie community and guests to enjoy this year’s event. Since VIP tickets sold out in advanced and general admission ticket prices increased as the event drew nearer, only those who were prepared were able to enjoy everything LOWFF had to offer. VIP tickets included a pre-event reception at the Riverside Hotel and early access to the tasting pavilions.

As a veteran attendee of the long running event, I had certain expectations going into LOWFF, and as usual, LOWFF did not disappoint. Like past years, the Las Olas mainstays showed up, serving plenty of love, and then a handful of new food and drink offerings made a splash, assuring that the event is ever evolving and exciting. Mix a hungry crowd with some excitement and lines form, but waiting in lines at popular spots is a great time to sip a drink or two, talk about the food and digest. This year, Patron Tequila’s unique bottle shaped cups created a ton of buzz and had attendees standing in the longest lines.

I’ll pass on sharing the full menu of everything I feasted and sipped on, but here’s an abridged version of the journey:  this year’s feast started with a few cocktails, a Truman Vodka Espresso Martini and a fruity Mai Tai from Tommy Bahama took me away from the crowds and into vacation mode.

Tommy Bahama – Mai Tai

Next, some glittering gold ceviche from Boatyard was creamy and citrusy, super fresh. I could go on and on about a handful of other ceviche offerings, and if you like ceviche LOWFF is for you, but instead, I’ll jump ahead to my favorite bite from a new restaurant, a creamy, crispy cube, the Japanese Milk Bread Shrimp Toast from event rookies MAASS at the Four Seasons. Other exceptional bites included the Braised Beef Short Rib from Holly Blue, the Tuna Poke Nachos from Lucky Fish, the Shrimp Beignet from Even Keel Fish Shack, the Seared Ahi Tuna Causa from The Diplomat Beach Resort, the Birria Esquites from Rocco’s Tacos, and the Agnolotti Di Pera from Tamarindo Harbor Seafood Bar & Grill.

Tamarindo Harbor Seafood Bar & Grill – Agnolotti Di Pera

When I started to run out of space for food, I took a minute to say hello to former Miami Dolphins, Florida Gators great, and seasoning hall of famer, Channing Crowder, who was at LOWFF offering his Crowder Powder, a tasty mix of garlic, with a touch of heat, and a hint of sweet. Next, I had an opportunity to try the already iconic Gin and Juice by Dre and Snoop. I went with Citrus, it was crisp, packed with flavor, and kept me rolling down the street, and right into the Casamigos and then the High West Whisky bars.

After recharging, it was time for dessert. Phuse Cream’s Strawberry Cheesecake Macaroon Ice Cream Sandwich was a perfect bite to begin with. From there, some famous Iced Coffee, super sweet and creamy, from The Alchemist Café hit the dessert bullseye. Next, Hatch’s Bacon Pecan Ice Cream on a Sugar Waffle was the perfect, “over-the-top” option to close out another satisfyingly LOWFF.

Hatch – Bacon Pecan Ice Cream on Sugar Waffle

After 28 amazing years, it’s safe to say LOWFF shouldn’t be missed. Stay up to date with LOWFF announcements, specials and giveaways on Facebook and Instagram or for a complete line-up of events and ticket information, visit LasOlasWFF.com

  • The Hollywood Donut Factory

  • Rocco's Tacos - Birria Esquites

  • Rocco's Tacos - Birria Esquites

  • Tamarindo Harbor Seafood Bar & Grill - Agnolotti Di Pera

  • Tanteo - Tequilas

  • The Alchemist - Famous Iced Coffee

  • The Den - Jalapeno Croquettes

  • The Diplomat Beach Resort - Seared Ahi Tuna Causa

  • The Federal - Smoked Fish Dip

  • Radiant 166 - Sesame Ahi Tuna Seaweed Salad

  • Timpano - Creamy Pasta

  • Tito's Vodka- Cafetito's Espresso Martini

  • Tommy Bahama - Mai Tai

  • Tommy Bahama

  • Truman Vodka - Martini

  • Vicky Bakery - Cuban Pastries

  • Yolo - Cherry Smoked Pork Loin

  • Abiaka - Shrimp with White Sauce

  • Pinaq Liqueur

  • Ol' Days - Tapioca Bites

  • Lung Force

  • Lucky Fish - Tuna Poke Nachos

  • Holly Blue - Braised Beef Short Rib

  • High West Whisky

  • Hatch - Bacon Pecan Ice Cream on Sugar Waffle

  • Hampton Water Rose

  • Golden Road - Margo Cart Ale

  • Gin and Juice by Dre and Snoop

  • Even Keel - Shrimp Beignet

  • Casamigos Jalapeno

  • Boatyard - Ceviche

  • Barcelo Rum

  • American Social - Tropical Atlantic Ceviche

Events

Fangtasia at Regatta Grove Brought Vampire Vibes and Spooky Cocktails to Miami

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From vampire bartenders and a neon coffin photo op to Halloween cocktails and waterfront dancing, Regatta Grove’s Fangtasia was a bloody good time.


November 2, 2026

Halloween in Miami just hits differently. While the rest of the country is bundling up for spooky season, we’re sipping cocktails by the water, dancing under the stars, and apparently hanging out with vampires.

And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Regatta Grove in Coconut Grove went all in for Halloween weekend with Fangtasia, a two-night vampire-inspired celebration on October 30 and 31 that turned the waterfront hotspot into a spooky little paradise.

We stopped by to see what all the fang-tastic fun was about, and between the elaborate costumes, DJ, festive cocktails, and vampire staff, there was plenty to love.

The first thing we noticed? Regatta Grove was fully committed to the theme.

Red Halloween decorations transformed the open-air venue, creating a moody atmosphere against the backdrop of Biscayne Bay. Guests showed up in elaborate costumes, bringing plenty of Halloween personality to an already lively setting.

But our favorite detail might have been the staff.

Every staff member was dressed as a vampire.

Yes, even the people making your drinks were embracing their undead era. It’s those little details that make themed events so much more fun, and Regatta Grove definitely understood the assignment.

And then there was the neon coffin photo op, because what’s a vampire party without somewhere to take a ridiculously good Halloween picture?

Let’s just say the photo opportunities were not lacking.

Now, obviously, we need to talk about the drinks.

Fangtasia featured three Halloween specialty cocktails made with Ketel One vodka, each with its own spooky personality.

The Ghoul’s Mule was a Halloween twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with Ketel One vodka, ginger beer, strawberry, and lime. Fruity, refreshing, and just the right kind of festive for a warm Miami evening.

The Black Widow was one for the espresso martini lovers, combining Ketel One Espresso vodka, cold brew, and coffee liqueur. Dark, coffee-forward, and appropriately named for the occasion. We love a cocktail that matches the dress code.

And finally, the Bloody Good Martini mixed Ketel One vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and strawberry for a citrusy, fruity take on a Halloween martini.

Honestly, who needs a cauldron when the cocktail menu is already this fun?

One of the best things about Regatta Grove is its location. Set right along Biscayne Bay, the Coconut Grove venue already has that laid-back, tropical atmosphere that makes Miami nights so much fun.

But for Fangtasia, things got a little darker.

The red decorations, vampire costumes, and Halloween details gave the venue a completely different personality, while a great DJ kept the energy going throughout the celebration.

And the guests definitely brought their A-game. From elaborate costumes to all-out Halloween looks, the crowd was clearly having fun with the theme.

There was something especially entertaining about seeing such an eerie Halloween atmosphere mixed with palm trees, waterfront views, and Miami’s warm evening breeze.

A little spooky, a little glamorous, and very Miami.

Between the costumed crowd, vampire staff, themed cocktails, and neon coffin photo op, Fangtasia at Regatta Grove was such a fun way to celebrate Halloween in Coconut Grove.

What made the night memorable wasn’t just one big attraction. It was how all the details came together, from the music and decor to the staff getting in on the fun.

And really, a Halloween party where you can dance by Biscayne Bay, sip a Bloody Good Martini, and take photos in a glowing coffin? That’s pretty hard to beat.

Fangtasia may be over for this year, but we’re already curious to see what Regatta Grove has planned next.

Until then, we’ll be keeping our fangs crossed for another round next Halloween.

 

Regatta Grove | Coconut Grove, Miami

3415 Pan American Drive, Miami, FL 33133

Event: Fangtasia Halloween Celebration

Dates: October 30–31, 2026

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South Beach Seafood Festival Brings The Boil

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Come for the Crab, Stay for the Party: South Beach Serves Up a Saturday Worth Savoring.

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Crab With a Side of Party

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South Beach Seafood Festival serves sweet stone crab, buttery shrimp and a Miami soundtrack worth sticking around for.

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Fright Nights Unleashed: Big Scares, Bold Bites and a Night to Remember

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Fright Nights Delivers Scares, Flavor and a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Halloween Magic.

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Boca’s South Florida Pickle Festival Proves to be a Big Dill

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Horrorland Scares Up a Frightfully Good Time

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Six haunted houses, sinister surprises and death-defying entertainment turn Miami’s Jungle Island into a scream-worthy playground where fear and fun collide. (more…)

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The Wharf Fort Lauderdale Is Going Full Halloween, and We Want In!

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Horror movie villains on Friday, disco skeletons on Saturday, and two nights of Halloween chaos we absolutely cannot miss.


October 14, 2026

Okay, Fort Lauderdale, Halloween weekend is looking GOOD.

The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is giving us not one, but TWO completely different Halloween parties this year, and honestly, choosing between them feels unfair. One night we’re running from horror movie villains, and the next we’re dancing under disco balls with skeletons. What more could we possibly want?

Whether you’re the type who lives for a good scare or just wants an excuse to wear something outrageous and dance all night, The Wharf has plans for you.

And yes, we’re already thinking about costumes.

Friday, October 30: Slasher Drive-In

Remember when horror movies were all about creepy drive-in theaters, questionable decisions, and someone inevitably running in the wrong direction?

Well, The Wharf is bringing that energy back with Slasher Drive-In, an old-school horror-inspired Halloween party that sounds equal parts terrifying and ridiculously fun.

The venue is transforming into a vintage-style drive-in movie theater, complete with a throwback concession stand serving movie-night snacks.

Cute, right?

Except there’s one tiny problem.

Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, Ghostface, and Leatherface are all on the guest list.

Yes, the horror icons themselves will be roaming around the venue throughout the night, so maybe think twice before wandering off alone.

We love a good Halloween theme, but this one sounds like you’re stepping straight into your favorite slasher movie. Except instead of screaming at the characters on screen, you might actually be the one doing the screaming.

And honestly? We’re kind of into it.

Saturday, October 31: ‘Til Death Do Us Party

Now THIS is our kind of afterlife.

On Halloween night, The Wharf is trading horror movie scares for a full-blown disco takeover with ‘Til Death Do Us Party, where Studio 54 meets the great beyond.

Think glitter, mirror balls, disco skeletons, fabulous costumes, and a dance floor that refuses to rest in peace.

It’s spooky, it’s glamorous, and it’s giving us every reason to break out the sequins.

There will also be a costume contest, plenty of photo opportunities, and a special menu of $12 Halloween cocktails, because what’s a disco in the afterlife without a little something spooky to sip?

We’re picturing outrageous outfits, sparkly accessories, and a whole lot of dancing. If you’ve been saving a dramatic Halloween look for the perfect occasion, this might be it.

And can we just appreciate a Halloween party that doesn’t make us choose between looking fabulous and embracing the spooky season?

So, Which Night Are We Going?

Here’s the thing. We genuinely cannot decide.

Friday is for horror movie lovers who want to hang out with the villains they’ve spent years being terrified of.

Saturday is for the disco queens, costume enthusiasts, and anyone who believes Halloween should involve a little glitter and a lot of dancing.

Our solution? Both. Obviously.

Halloween only comes around once a year, and The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is making a pretty convincing case for clearing the entire weekend.

So call your friends, start planning those costumes, and prepare for two nights that sound way too fun to stay home for.

Because whether you’re running from Ghostface or dancing with the dead, one thing’s for sure: Fort Lauderdale isn’t going to be boring this Halloween.

The Halloween Weekend Details

Where: The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Friday, October 30: Slasher Drive-In, featuring horror movie characters, drive-in theater vibes, and movie-night snacks.

Saturday, October 31: ‘Til Death Do Us Party, featuring a Halloween disco, costume contest, photo ops, and $12 specialty cocktails.

The vibe: A little spooky, a little fabulous, and absolutely worth getting dressed up for.

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Regatta Grove Is Getting Spooky, and Fangtasia Might Be Our Favorite Halloween Plan Yet!

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Vampire vibes, waterfront cocktails, and two nights of Halloween fun on Biscayne Bay? We’re so in.


Okay, Miami, THIS is the kind of Halloween we’re talking about.

Picture this: you’re sipping a cocktail by the water, the sun is setting over Biscayne Bay, there’s a breeze coming off the water, and suddenly your favorite waterfront hangout has entered its vampire era.

Welcome to Fangtasia at Regatta Grove, where Halloween meets Miami’s favorite kind of night out.

Taking over Regatta Grove on Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, Fangtasia is bringing a darker, moodier twist to the waterfront spot we already love. And honestly, vampires and cocktails by the bay? We’re listening.

There’s something about Regatta Grove that makes an ordinary night feel like a mini vacation. The waterfront views, the open air, the tropical atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you show up for a drink and somehow lose track of time.

Now imagine all of that with a spooky Halloween twist.

Fangtasia is bringing the Halloween spirit to Coconut Grove without losing the laid-back coastal charm that makes Regatta Grove so much fun in the first place.

Think mysterious waterfront vibes, wicked cocktails, and the perfect excuse to embrace your dark side for the evening.

And can we talk about how good a vampire-inspired Halloween party sounds against a Miami sunset?

We’re already obsessed with the idea.

Listen, we love a haunted house. We love a good Halloween party. But there’s something especially appealing about celebrating spooky season with a cocktail in hand and Biscayne Bay as your backdrop.

No need to choose between your favorite Miami waterfront hangout and getting into the Halloween spirit. Fangtasia is giving us both.

Whether you’re going all out with your costume or just looking for somewhere fun to spend Halloween weekend, this is the kind of plan that’s easy to get excited about.

And with two nights to choose from, there’s really no excuse not to get a little fang-tastic.

If your Halloween group chat is still full of “What are we doing?” messages, consider this your answer.

Regatta Grove is already one of those places we love finding an excuse to visit, and throwing a vampire-inspired celebration into the mix just makes it better.

Grab your favorite people, embrace the spooky season, and make your way to Coconut Grove for a Halloween weekend with a little bite.

Because really, who wouldn’t want to spend Halloween sipping cocktails by the bay?

Fangtasia at Regatta Grove

Where: Regatta Grove, Coconut Grove, Miami

When: Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, 2026

The Vibe: Moody waterfront Halloween fun, wicked cocktails, and a vampire-inspired twist on a Miami favorite.

Our take? Halloween by the water with a little vampire energy sounds like a pretty perfect night to us.

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