Foodies invited to Relish Newport Beach this summer
Orange County resident and celebrity chef Jamie Gwen is used to a little heat in the kitchen, so she wasn't daunted by the idea of creating the ambitious Relish: A Food, Wine & Spirits Experience coming to Newport Beach this June.
'This is years in the making and now what started out as a plan for a single event has grown into a weekend experience,' Gwen said.
Co-created by Gwen and event planner Nicole Hirsty of Cobalt Events, the weekend-long food festival aims to bring back the culinary celebration that has been missed in the absence of Newport Beach Food & Wine.
'This a huge venture because I was involved and woven into the fabric of Newport Beach Food & Wine and it had a great run,' said Gwen.
The festival was rebranded as Newport Beach Wine & Food, an elevated restaurant showcase with a culinary stage hosted by Gwen; but after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event took a pause.
'I love living in Orange County and I believe that we do have a culinary scene and we do deserve an elevated, bespoke and extraordinary gastronomic event,' Gwen said. 'That is what Relish is set to be.'
Debuting June 27 to 29 at VEA Newport Beach, Relish will present top-tier chefs, sommeliers, mixologists and spirits experts over three days. Gwen, who has enjoyed a career as a chef and radio and television personality, tapped celebrity chef friends and colleagues she has connected with throughout her career to join the event.
'I started calling my chef friends and saying 'Hey, I want to bring to Newport Beach what we do in Aspen and South Beach, will you come?' And they said yes.'
The event begins on Friday, June 27, with an opening cocktail reception followed by a private dinner with Scott Conant, a chef, restaurateur and cookbook author best known as a judge on the reality TV cooking series, 'Chopped.'
The fun continues the next day with master classes and tastings from some of the industry's best leaders. Chef Gale Gand will kick it off, teaching Chocolate 101.
'Gale Gand is a living legend in the pastry world and an incredibly talented teacher,' said Gwen.
Cheesemaster Afrim Pristine will share knowledge on West Coast cheeses from British Columbia to San Diego while winemakers, Chris Kajani of Bouchaine Vineyards Napa and Bob Cabral of Bob Cabral Wines will host separate wine sessions.
Mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim will lead a class pairing vodka and Petrossian caviar; Aarti Sequeira, Indian American cook and winner of the sixth season of Food Network's competition show, 'The Next Food Network Star,' will host a session on spices.
The evening's festivities will close out with chef and Food Network show host Tyler Florence serving a four-course curated dinner paired with wine, though not before guests enjoy a 12-foot cheese and charcuterie display by Pristine.
'We are very excited to have Scott Conant and Tyler Florence headlining, both of which are very long time Food Network stars,' said Gwen.
On June 29, Relish will pair sushi alongside a doughnuts and churros station for 'A Live Doughnuts + Sushi Brunch Experience' and the weekend will end with an afternoon session dedicated to wellness, focusing on both mind and body rejuvenation.
'In all this indulgence, there has to be a time and place to take care of oneself,' Gwen said.
The James Beard Foundation will serve as Relish's charity partner with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the foundation's Good Food for Good mission. Support also comes from Visit Newport Beach.
'Visit Newport Beach is the greatest champion of bringing experiences to residents of Newport Beach and beyond and making Newport Beach a destination,' Gwen said.
While this will be the inaugural Relish, she is confident it will not be the last.
'We intend to continue to grow it and we have interest from another big name talent that is much beloved already lined up for 2026, so [that's even more of a] reason to reserve your space now and make it it an annual event,' said Gwen.
Individual tickets for master classes and event packages are now available at relishfoodwine.com.
'The intent with this weekend, is to sip and savor and relish the moment,' said Gwen.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Popular Food Network Show Returning This Summer With Different Name and New Host
Popular Food Network Show Returning This Summer With Different Name and New Host originally appeared on Parade. A popular Food Network cooking competition series is returning in the summer of 2025 with a new name and a new host! For two seasons, Superchef Grudge Match was a fun option, sort of a Tournament of Champions Lite. It was hosted by and would pit two chefs against each other who had some kind of feud or grudge to settle. Unfortunately, it did not return after its second season aired due to the host's legal issues regarding a domestic violence incident with his wife. But Food Network Magazine revealed in its new issue that the popular competition series is returning this summer with a (slightly) new name and a brand-new Ferguson's nickname was "Superchef," the show was called Superchef Grudge Match. But it returns this summer simply as Chef Grudge Match, and the person taking over the hosting duties is none other than famed boxer and daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, . The Food Network description reads, "The competitors on this show have long-standing rivalries, and they're looking to settle them with a culinary showdown. Host Laila Ali, a boxing hall-of-famer, oversees the action as judges determine which chef wins each round and ultimately goes home with $10,000." This is not Ali's first foray into television. She co-hosted the revival of American Gladiators and competed on season 4 of Dancing With the Stars. She also competed on Chopped: All Stars, was a cast member on The Celebrity Apprentice season 8, and appeared as "Panda" on season 2 of The Masked Singer. The article also revealed the first three match-ups. Typically, an episode of Superchef Grudge Match would have two match-ups per episode, so we aren't sure if two of these are in the premiere and one of them is in the second episode, or if they're changing the format to have three match-ups per episode. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 But either way, the first three match-ups include two Food Network Stars in 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing contestants Gabe Bertaccini and Damaris Phillips, both of whom have appeared on multiple Food Network shows. The announced matchups are as follows: Gabe Bertaccini vs Tyler RomineThis 15-year feud started when Tyler quit Gabe's restaurant with just three days' notice. Taylor Frankel vs Maria BusatoMaria was Taylor's sous chef until she opened a rival catering company in the same small town. Damaris Phillips vs Coby MingThese co-chefs want to settle whose fried chicken recipe deserves a spot on their menu. There is no word yet as to when Chef Grudge Match will premiere on Food Network. Popular Food Network Show Returning This Summer With Different Name and New Host first appeared on Parade on May 31, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on May 31, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Food Network Family Mourns Anne Burrell's Sudden Death
Food Network Family Mourns Anne Burrell's Sudden Death originally appeared on Parade. Celebrity chef Anne Burrell, host of Worst Cooks in America and participant in numerous Food Network shows, died on Tuesday, June 17, in her Brooklyn home at the age of 55. People broke the news with a statement from her family. "Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. Anne's light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal," reads the statement. Burrell is survived by her husband of almost four years, Stuart Claxton, his son, Javier, mother, Marlene, sister Jane, brother Ben, and several nieces and nephews. Of course, she is also being mourned by Food Network stars and fans alike."We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning. Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring. Our thoughts are with Anne's family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss," said the Food Network in a Facebook post. Chef Robert Irvine posted a beautiful tribute to his Instagram, writing, "I am stunned and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Anne Burrell. Anne wasn't just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered. From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect: I'd risk bleaching my hair; she'd risk losing hers. An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn't imagine losing to a more fierce competitor. "Outside of Worst Cooks, I came to know her as a generous and supportive colleague and an even better friend. I'll always remember her unwavering dedication, not just to food, but to lifting others up. She believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser. That was Anne. Uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship. "To her husband Stuart, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, sister Jane, and her many friends and fans: please know that Anne's warmth, vibrant spirit, and generous heart will echo in kitchens around the world and in our hearts forever. "Rest in peace, Chef. Your legacy as a champion of food, kindness, and empowerment will continue to inspire. Thank you for every lesson, every challenge, and every glorious moment. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten. "With all my love and respect,Robert Irvine." Chef Stephanie Izard posted a photo to Instagram and wrote, "Such a vibrant personality and radiant smile and talent that will not be forgotten. @chefanneburrell you were a true inspiration for so many. My heart goes out to your family and loved ones 💔." Chef Michael Voltaggio shared a photo of the hand-knit baby blanket that Burrell sent to him after the birth of his daughter, Echo, a year ago and wrote, "Anne, thank you for sharing your talents with the world. Aside from being an incredible chef, teacher and colleague, she's also a loyal and thoughtful friend. You consistently reached out to check in during the wins and the losses. Thank you for hand-knitting this beautiful blanket for Echo, and thank you for so many fun memories in and out of the kitchen, chef. ❤️." MasterChef winner Claudia Sandoval posted a photo and wrote, "Rest in peace, Chef Anne Burrell. This photo was taken back in 2016 on the set of Worst Cooks in America, where I had the chance to judge an episode and meet Anne for the first time. Anne was exactly what you saw on TV…boisterous, bold, and completely unapologetic about how she ran her kitchen. Her laugh could fill a room, and her energy was unforgettable. But make no mistake, she was also sharp, serious, and didn't play around when it came to food. She demanded excellence, and she led with conviction. She carved out her own space in this industry and inspired so many along the way. She'll never be forgotten." Worst Cooks in America contestant Denise Schroder penned a lengthy memorial to Burrell on Facebook, writing, "I had such a wild ride when I was cast to season 20 of Food Network, Worst Cooks in America! I was ecstatic when Chef Anne chose me to be on the red team. I can remember running up to her screaming, telling her that I had just named my new cat after her, Kiki Anne! To my utter surprise, the next day she brought her cats to sit and invited me to her green room to meet them! It was just one of those really cool moments!" She continued, "Chef Anne was hard on us, but I loved her wit and humor when I wasn't catching something on fire in the gave me a lot of grace when I left the foot on my chicken, and she would quietly encourage me to keep going! Rest in Peace." Burrell actually just competed on the new Food Network show House of Knives and could also recently be seen as a team captain on two seasons of BBQ Brawl and a judge on Wildcard Kitchen. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 Food Network Family Mourns Anne Burrell's Sudden Death first appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Anne Burrell Uploaded Last Instagram Post 5 Days Before Sudden Death
Anne Burrell Uploaded Last Instagram Post 5 Days Before Sudden Death originally appeared on Parade. Food Network star Anne Burrell has died at the age of 55, according to TMZ. Details about her death are unclear at this time, with the outlet reporting that Burrell was found "unresponsive" at her home in Brooklyn on June 17. The Worst Cooks in America host uploaded her last Instagram post just five days before she died. "I ran into @greenladyofbrooklyn in my neighborhood today!! I'm not going to lie- I have been keeping an eye out for her. I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl," she captioned the post, adding three green heart emoji. Burrell included a selfie that she took alongside The Green Lady of Brooklyn, whose real name is Elizabeth Sweetheart. "Hi Ann. it was so much fun meeting you. see you again soon in the neighborhood. the only thing I make is coffee and fig preserves from my fig tree. love and hugs," Sweetheart commented on the post. Now, the comments section of Burrell's post has started to fill with messages about her death. "CHEF ANNE NOOOOOO," one person wrote. "This can't be true. Chef Anne you were vivacious, hilarious, full of life and reminded me of my Mom. I'm so so sorry. Rest with the Angels in Heaven and cook up a storm for us," someone else said. "RIP ANNE! I can't believe this! We lost a good one," a third comment read. "Rip Anne. You brought so much light to Food Network. Worst Cooks is still one of my favorite shows," a fourth Instagram user added. Anne Burrell Uploaded Last Instagram Post 5 Days Before Sudden Death first appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
