Forks & Corks Food and Wine Experiences

Event: Forks & Corks Food and Wine Experiences

Event Dates: January 20–26, 2026

Estimated Ticket Range: $85–$238

Description: Forks & Corks is officially underway, and the Suncoast is once again in the spotlight as one of Florida’s most vibrant culinary destinations.

Produced by Sarasota-Manatee Originals, Forks & Corks is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: independent restaurants are stronger when they work together. Sarasota-Manatee Originals is a collective of locally owned, independent restaurants dedicated to showcasing the region’s culinary talent while reinvesting in the community they serve. Forks & Corks is the organization’s signature event, designed to bring that mission to life.

From January 20 through January 26, more than 25 Sarasota-Manatee Originals member restaurants are hosting intimate Winemaker Dinners with visiting vintners and winery representatives from around the world. These one-of-a-kind evenings allow chefs and winemakers to collaborate directly, creating thoughtfully curated multi-course menus paired with exceptional wines. Each dinner reflects the identity of the host restaurant while offering guests a global perspective on wine. A full list of dinners, including dates, locations, and ticket information, can be found at the link above.

For those interested in going deeper, Forks & Corks University offers educational Master Classes led by winemakers and industry experts. These guided tastings explore topics such as terroir, winemaking philosophy, and global wine regions, giving guests the chance to learn directly from the people behind the bottle. Forks & Corks University reinforces the festival’s commitment to education, storytelling, and craftsmanship.

The Forks & Corks Online Food and Wine Auction is also live throughout the week. Featuring a curated selection of rare wines, luxury travel, and exclusive dining experiences, the auction supports the mission of Sarasota-Manatee Originals. All proceeds benefit more than 70 locally owned, independent restaurants, helping sustain the small businesses that give the Suncoast its character and flavor. Online bidding closes Sunday, January 25 at 3 pm.

The week builds toward the Grand Tasting on Sunday, one of the region’s most anticipated food and wine events. This year, all 1,400 Grand Tasting tickets sold out in less than two minutes, marking another record year and highlighting the growing enthusiasm for Forks & Corks and the local restaurant community behind it.

Forks & Corks is more than a festival. It is a celebration of independent restaurants, global wine culture, and the power of collaboration. Guests are invited to experience exceptional food and wine while supporting the local businesses that make the Suncoast a destination worth savoring.

Explore the full schedule of Winemaker Dinners, Master Classes, and auction offerings at https://eatlikealocal.com/forksandcorks/.