Chef’s Food & Wine: Festival

Want to wine and dine for a cause? If so, buy your tickets now to Albany's 7th annual Chef's Food & Wine Festival in support of non-profit arts organizations.

Sound tempting? Here's what to expect.

Mayor's Opening Celebration

Kick off the food frenzy with an elegant cocktail reception and networking event at Albany's City Hall on Thursday. Not only will you rendezvous with the mayor, festival organizers, and featured chefs, but you'll also feast on a selection of delicious hors d'oeuvres and world class wines donated by a couple of Sonoma County's finest wineries.

NYS Craft Beer Pavilion

Satiate your thirst with access to some of the best local craft breweries the Empire State has to offer. New York is a rising powerhouse in the national craft beer scene. You won't want to miss your chance to sample 30 different beers from 12 local breweries and ciders from New York's best cideries all with your Grand Tasting and Seminar ticket purchase.

Rising Star Chef Pavilion

Transition from drinks to food by tasting some delightful concoctions from local chef wunderkinds. Based on fan votes, tastings, and interviews, rising chefs will showcase their innovative cooking techniques, creativity, and use of local produce.

Seminars

During your downtime, check out the educational seminars on tequila, rum, and a demo on the basics of cheese boards. On Saturday, watch Dennis Oakley's demo on how to make classic cocktails from the comfort of your home. Continue your knowledge binge with tastings of St. Francis Winery's Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, and Old Vines Zinfandel. It's a wine enthusiast's paradise.

Battle of the Bartenders

Continue the revelry on Friday and Saturday with the Battle of the Bartenders. Competing bartenders will craft 3 unique cocktails ranging from takes on classics like the Manhattan and the ever-complex Bloody Mary.

Slider Slam

Cap off Friday night at the Slider Slam (tickets sold separately). Witness 15 chefs go head to head to see who can make the most appetizing slider. Afterward, dance off those calories to the music of DJ Playground.

Chemex Cup

With separate admission, start your Saturday afternoon off with some pour over coffee and artisanal donuts. Relax as local baristas compete to make the best coffee drinks. The real winner will be you.

Adirondack Appliance Signature Invitational

Witness tensions run high and beads of sweat run down some of the best New York chefs in a heated competition. Seasoned chefs compete in a mystery basket style competition to showcase their exceptional food to a panel of judges. Bare witness to it all with your Saturday Grand Tasting ticket.

Grand Gala Reception and 6 Course Dinner

Enter the Hilton Albany with an empty stomach for a once-in-a-lifetime treat to a six-course dinner prepared by top-notch chefs. The theme: a Spanish homage to Picasso. Wash it all down with premium wines paired with your meal. Top off the night with live and silent auctions to support the local arts.

Buy your tickets now at www.albanywinefest.com