Grand tastings, dine arounds, cooking demonstrations + seminars — oh my. That could only mean one thing: the second annual FOOD & WINE Classic in Charleston is almost here — and boy, are we ready.

Looking at the jam-packed three-day schedule can be a little overwhelming, especially with world-renowned chefs and celebrities listed. But take a deep breath: we’ve got you. Newsletter Editor Callie here, and I’m excited to share a few of my favorite experiences from last year’s event.

I went into last year’s festival fully expecting the grand tastings to be my favorite part of the weekend (don’t get me wrong, they were incredible). But to my surprise, I fell in love with the seminars and cooking demonstrations. Pro tip: Don’t skip the local talent.

I learned so much in these hour-long classes, from sipping wines with Ray Isle as he shared what made each pour special, to tasting the uniqueness of each buttery treat as Carrie Morey, Erika Council, and Jason Stanhope shared their biscuit-making secrets.

Chef and restaurateur Mike Lata, of FIG and The Ordinary, has mentored and shaped several Charleston chefs. | Photo by CHStoday

But, one of the most impactful events I attended — and still think about often — was Chef Mike Lata’s “Shore to Table: Celebrating South Carolina's Oysters and Clams.” From the moment the lights dimmed and the cooking surface heated up, I was mesmerized, and so was everyone else. Folks hung onto every word, some even taking notes in journals, as Lata shared cooking tips.

He captivated the room as he weaved the Lowcountry’s history, the significance of local ingredients — oysters, okra, Carolina Gold rice — and highlighted local farmers from the beloved James Island farmers market. Through his gumbo, he truly told the story of the region.

A few demos on my radar this year:

Local Legends: Stories and Recipes from Charleston's Favorite Kitchen with Mike Lata
A Fireside Chat with Emeril and EJ Lagasse
Feast with Florence: The Ultimate Holiday Prime Rib Menu with Tyler Florence
In Trisha’s Kitchen: Feel-Good Food for Festive Times with Trisha Yearwood
Beyond Biscuits: Unexpected Recipes From an All-Purpose Dough with Carrie Morey, Callie White, and Miles White

Before you head out, be sure to brush up on our “Know before you go” guide.