When people think of Miami, they picture sunny beaches and nightlife. But there’s more to this city than parties. Miami has become a hotspot for chefs, restaurant owners, and food industry professionals. Every year, the city hosts some of the best cooking trade events and expos in the country.
These shows are not just about tasting food. They are about discovering trends, meeting top chefs, and learning how to grow your business. Whether you own a restaurant, manage a catering company, or supply kitchen equipment, these events are worth your time.
Here’s a clear guide to the top cooking trade shows in Miami, plus why you should attend, what it will cost, where to stay, and what perks you’ll get.
1. South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF)
Industry: Culinary Arts, Food & Beverage
Venue: Multiple locations in Miami Beach. Main events at Loews Miami Beach Hotel.
Dates & Time: Every year in late February. Usually 4 days long.
Cost: Tickets start around $50 for tastings. Special dinners can cost over $500.
Why It Stands Out:
- Meet celebrity chefs and winemakers.
- Try tastings, watch cooking demos, and join unique dinners.
- Network with food and hospitality leaders.
Nearby Hotels:
- Loews Miami Beach Hotel
- The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
- The Betsy Hotel
Extra Perks:
Many tickets include unlimited tastings and access to workshops or chef meet-and-greets.
2. Miami Restaurant & Lodging Show
Industry: Restaurant Management, Food Service, Equipment
Venue: Miami Beach Convention Centre
Dates & Time: Held every September. Lasts for 3 days.
Cost: A General trade pass is about $50–$100.
Why It’s Worth It:
- See new restaurant tech and design trends.
- Meet more than 200 vendors for food, spirits, and kitchen gear.
- Learn from experts on marketing, staffing, and sustainability.
Nearby Hotels:
- Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel
- The Sagamore Hotel South Beach
- W South Beach
Event Perks:
Watch live cooking competitions and test out the newest equipment.
3. The Americas Food & Beverage Show
Industry: Import/Export, Food Distribution, Speciality Foods
Venue: Miami Beach Convention Centre
Dates & Time: Usually in September. Runs for 2 days.
Cost: Free if you register early as a trade visitor. On-site tickets cost about $35.
Why It’s Popular:
- Meet over 500 food and beverage companies.
- Taste new products before they hit the market.
- Attend talks about global food trends and trade logistics.
Nearby Hotels:
- The Palms Hotel & Spa
- Fontainebleau Miami Beach
- Generator Miami
Special Perks:
If you work in wholesale or retail, this show is great for finding new products and global partners.
4. The International Wine & Spirits Show
Industry: Fine Dining, Beverage, Hospitality
Venue: Miami Airport Convention Centre
Dates & Time: Every May. Lasts 2 days.
Cost: Around $40–$100 for trade attendees.
Why You Should Go:
- Taste rare wines and craft spirits.
- Connect with sommeliers, bar managers, and distributors.
- Attend classes with top mixologists and wine experts.
Nearby Hotels:
- EB Hotel Miami
- Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon
- Hyatt House Miami Airport
Bonus Perks:
Perfect for restaurant owners looking to upgrade their wine lists.
5. Miami Coffee Expo
Industry: Café Owners, Coffee Roasters, Baristas
Venue: Mana Wynwood Convention Centre
Dates & Time: Every April. Runs for 2 days.
Cost: General tickets range from $30–$70.
Why It’s a Must-See:
- Connect with top coffee roasters and equipment makers.
- Join latte art battles and brewing classes.
- Discover single-origin coffees and new machines.
Nearby Hotels:
- Arlo Wynwood
- Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood
- Other boutique hotels in Wynwood
Event Perks:
Learn new brewing methods and source unique beans for your café.
Why Attend These Cooking Trade Events in Miami?
Connect with Industry Leaders
Meet top chefs, suppliers, and business owners. Build relationships that can help your business grow.
Spot New Trends Early
Learn about the latest food trends, equipment, and sustainability ideas before they hit the mainstream.
Get Hands-On Experience
Try equipment, taste ingredients, and watch live demos. You can test ideas on the spot.
Grow Your Brand
If you exhibit, you’ll reach new customers, distributors, and media outlets.
Enjoy Miami While You’re Here
When you’re not at the show, enjoy Miami’s famous food scene, beaches, and cultural spots.
Nearby Miami Highlights to Explore
Make the most of your visit:
- Wynwood Walls: See colourful street art near the Coffee Expo.
- Little Havana: Experience Cuban flavours and heritage.
- South Beach: Relax at the Art Deco district after a busy day.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
Book Hotels Early: Miami fills up fast during big events.
Stay Close to the Venue: Save time and skip traffic.
Plan Transport: Use rideshares, trolleys, or local shuttles. Parking can be tough.
If you’re in the cooking, restaurant, or food business, Miami’s trade shows are more than just events. They’re a chance to get inspired, meet industry insiders, and find fresh ideas to take back to your business. From wine tastings to food innovation, these expos offer it all.
Plan ahead, stay close, and make connections that last well beyond your stay.