The Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation (FWFWF) is thrilled to announce an extraordinary roster of culinary talent and musical performances set to elevate the 2025 Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival, taking place from April 3-6, 2025. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this milestone edition of the festival promises to continue its tradition of showcasing North Texas’ vibrant food scene, combining the artistry of both established and emerging chefs with an electrifying entertainment lineup. With Visit Fort Worth (VFW) as the Official Music Sponsor, live performances will add a unique auditory layer, making this year’s festival an unforgettable fusion of taste, sound, and culture.
This year’s culinary offerings represent the cutting edge of Fort Worth’s gastronomic creativity, bringing together a mix of celebrated chefs and innovative dining concepts. Among the standout additions is Dos Mares, the latest seafood venture from Rodrigo Cárdenas, who also leads the renowned Don Artemio team. Known for his refined take on seafood, Cárdenas’ new concept promises to infuse the festival with fresh flavors from the sea, taking attendees on a culinary voyage with sustainable and meticulously sourced ingredients.
Also making a splash at the festival is Bocca Osteria Romana, where Chef Alessandro Salvatore brings authentic Italian cuisine to Fort Worth with his handmade pastas, house-made cheeses, and seasonal, locally sourced produce. The Sicilian Butcher, under the direction of Omar Bernal and Landon Labarthe, will offer a delicious mix of fresh, scratch-made pastas paired with house-cured meats that reflect the old-world flavors of Sicily. For a Tex-Mex twist, Mercado Juarez, led by Chef Eloy Reyes, will feature its signature mesquite-grilled dishes, emphasizing the bold flavors of traditional Tex-Mex cooking elevated by local ingredients.
At the Burgers, Brews + Blues event, From Scratch Hospitality’s Walloon’s Restaurant will serve a sophisticated twist on the classic American burger, offering a mouthwatering variety of ingredients that highlight regional flavors. Meanwhile, Rise + Dine, an exclusive brunch event, will showcase Deborah Williamson of James Provisions, who will present a menu focused on whole-food dishes that celebrate local produce and sustainable sourcing—perfect for those seeking a fresh, vibrant start to their day.
A Musical Journey: From Blues to Red Dirt
The festival’s music lineup promises to be as dynamic and diverse as its culinary offerings. On Saturday, Burgers, Brews + Blues will feature the soulful Michael Lee and the Wartime Limousine, setting the stage for the evening’s headliner, Danny Joseph. Known for his raw, gritty sound, Joseph’s music perfectly complements the festival’s bold flavors with his blend of soulful blues and roots rock.
On Sunday, Ring of Fire will set the festival ablaze with an unforgettable mix of vintage country and Red Dirt music. Max Stalling, with his storytelling-infused songs and outlaw country sensibilities, will lead the charge, followed by The Great Divide, one of the most revered names in Red Dirt music. Known for their high-energy performances and rich, resonant sound, The Great Divide will bring their signature blend of southern rock and country to the stage, creating a perfect musical backdrop for the festival’s crowd.
A Distinctive Beverage Experience
No celebration of culinary excellence is complete without an exceptional beverage program, and this year’s festival introduces a new highlight: Dripping Springs Distillery’s small-batch, micro-distilled vodka. Crafted with pure, artesian spring water from the Texas Hill Country, Dripping Springs Vodka is a testament to the region’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This spirit has earned recognition on the international stage, having won a Gold Medal and the Vodka Purity Trophy at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition, making it a must-try for festival attendees.
Celebrating Fort Worth’s Culinary Heritage
In addition to the star-studded culinary offerings, the festival will also celebrate the rich food history of Fort Worth. Celestina Blok, an influential figure in the city’s culinary scene, will join Lindsey Lawing of Sweet Lucy’s Pies at The Main Event to introduce Blok’s eagerly awaited new cookbook, Cowtown Comfort. Featuring 60 recipes from Fort Worth’s most beloved restaurants, Cowtown Comfort dives deep into the culinary traditions that have shaped the city’s vibrant dining culture. From classic dishes to contemporary interpretations, the cookbook offers a rich exploration of Fort Worth’s diverse food heritage, showcasing the city’s legacy of innovation and community in its kitchens.
A Festival Like No Other
The 2025 Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival promises to be a dynamic and immersive celebration of culinary creativity, musical talent, and community spirit. With its eclectic mix of chefs, musicians, and beverages, the festival will not only highlight the best of North Texas but will also offer a platform for emerging talent, promising a truly unforgettable experience for all attendees. As the festival marks its 10th year, it continues to solidify its position as one of the premier culinary events in the country, offering both locals and visitors an unparalleled taste of Fort Worth’s flavor and culture.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this milestone event—mark your calendars for April 3-6, 2025, and get ready for a weekend that celebrates the very best of Fort Worth’s food, drink, and music scene.
