Event: Black Food & Wine Experience 2023
Date: June 11-18, 2023
Location: Ferry Building, San Francisco
Photos (37): Christopher Williams
Contributor: Chef B Bevels
The Black Food & Wine Experience was an epic panoramic display of culinary genius. The eclectic fare and libations seemingly seduced the large crowd of sophisticated, well-dressed patrons as they floated from one station to the next amusing their palate inside of the host venue, at the San Francisco Ferry Building. There was something for every type of foodie… newcomer, refined, and folks in between. it was spectacular!
Gumbo Social was in the building, dolling out generous portions of his signature Chicken & Sausage Gumb. This was “Slap Yo Mama” good! Chef Marisa Gittens of Cook & Run developed a tasty bite of juicy grape tomatoes, balsamic caviar, and microgreens. Not to be outdone, California Rose Catering & Events dropped the mic with a crave worthy Shrimp Cluster adorned by black sesame seeds. On the spicier side of things, Chef Selasi Dotse of Eladetes Kitchen, took no prisoners in the VIP while offering a play on a West African favorite, Jollof rice seasoned party wings. As luck would have it, Hella Costal Craft Beers and Coco’s Cocktails were available to extinguish the heat of flavors, offering a welcome reprieve.
Chef Mimi, the amazing curator of The Black Food & Wine Experience, showed up and showed out again this year, while San Francisco’s Mayor, London Breed gave a star studded welcome that literally got the party started! Chef Mimi’s attention to detail and collaborative spirt was palpable. My recommendation is that you put this on your “things to do” in 2024. Until then, eat well!
