When it comes to food-filled events, South Florida certainly has no lack.
From the massive star-filled South Beach Wine and Food Festival to the more intimate celeb-chef centric Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival in December to smaller, local culinary get-togethers, we've got foodie events of all shapes and sizes.
Friday brought the first-ever OBIES: A Taste of South Florida to the Broward County Convention Center . Some of South Florida's best chefs were in attendance, including Top Chef and Siena Tavern partner Fabio Viviani, who won Best Overall of the competition.
See Also: Paul Castronovo to Host the OBIEs: A Taste of South Florida
The relaxed event featured an all-star cast from all walks of the edible world. Big 105'9's resident foodie, Paul Castronovo hosted while chefs like James Beard inductee Norman Van Aken and Top Chef Viviani performed live cooking demos for the small audience.
Being that it was the first year, it one of the rare food events with manageable lines and space to sit-back and eat; there was no need to worry about getting your fill of food or beverages.
Several locally and nationally acclaimed chefs and restaurants turned up to show off their best, including Hell's Kitchen contestant, 3030 Ocean executive chef Paula DaSilva; Hell's Kitchen contestant Ralph Pagano of Naked Taco and Alba Seaside Italian; Eating House/Taperia Raca; Harry's Pizzeria; S3; and Steak 954.
While it was hard to go wrong with any dish, there were some stand-outs, which were picked by a panel of judges and attendees.
Best Overall and People's Choice went to Vivani's Siena Tavern (it will be opening its doors in Miami Beach this fall).
Best Broward Restaurant: S3.
Best Miami Restaurant: J&G Grille
Best Dessert: Misha's Cupcakes.
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