10th annual Food and Wine Festival rocks the block
Chef Robert Owens of Owens and Hull in Smyrna, Ga., preparing his signature ribs.
The 2025 Highlands Food and Wine Festival wrapped up on Nov. 16, leaving attendees craving both delicious bites and memorable melodies. Held in the picturesque mountains, the annual festival brought together food enthusiasts and music lovers for a three-day experience that showcased the best of both worlds.
One of the standout features of this year’s event was the live performance by iconic rock band The Wallflowers. Known for their hit songs and captivating stage presence, the band delivered an energetic set that had festival-goers dancing and singing along. “The atmosphere was awesome,” said festival attendee Cherie Brown-Potts. “It was the perfect backdrop to an incredible weekend.”
Good food was undoubtedly the main highlight of the event, featuring a wide variety of culinary creations from top chefs and restaurateurs. The Grand Tasting on Thursday and Smoke Signals on Friday offered attendees dishes with inventive flavors. The Main Event on Saturday showcased over 30 acclaimed regional chefs, presenting delicious options such as smoked brisket sliders and butter chicken.
Chef Robert Owens of Owens and Hull, based in Smyrna, Georgia, showcased his signature BBQ, and the dishes did not disappoint. “This is our first time at the Highlands Food and Wine Festival,” said Owens. “Good food should tell a story and bring people together. I have loved the vibe and had a great time!”
In addition to the stellar food and music, the festival offered a diverse array of wineries, distilleries, and breweries, each showcasing their finest selections. These vendors presented a wide range of exquisite vintages, handcrafted spirits, and unique craft brews, giving attendees the chance to sample a variety of flavors and styles. The event created a lively atmosphere where guests could explore different taste profiles, learn about the brewing and winemaking processes, and enjoy the artistry behind each beverage.
The Bascom provided the perfect backdrop for the Grand Tasting on Thursday and the Sunday brunch crafted by celebrated chefs Dickie Brennan from New Orleans and Ashley Cannon from Skyline Lodge. The scenic setting complemented the event’s elegant atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for all attendees. Guests were able to enjoy not only the exquisite culinary creations but also the stunning ambiance that The Bascom offered.
As the festival wrapped up, attendees left with lasting memories of incredible food, lively music, and special moments on the Plateau. The 2025 Highlands Food and Wine Festival once again showed that blending culinary excellence with live entertainment results in an unforgettable experience. Many guests are already looking forward to next year’s festivities, eager to reconnect with friends and explore new flavors and sounds.
- Josh Bryson
editor@highlandsnews.com