| 500+ Attendees Gather as Chef JJ Johnson & Fat Joe Anchor the Ultimate Celebration of Black Culture & Cuisine at the Cookout in Miami Beach at the 25th Annual SOBEWFF® |
There are backyard parties, and then there is The Cookout.
This past Saturday, February 21, the 25th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival® (SOBEWFF®) reached a fever pitch at the iconic Eden Roc Miami Beach. For the fourth year in a row, James Beard Award-winning Chef JJ Johnson brought his vision of cultural celebration to the sand, hosting an afternoon that was much more than just a tasting event—it was a movement.
More Than a Meal: A Cultural Movement
With the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop, nearly 600 guests gathered poolside for an afternoon dedicated to the flavors of the African Diaspora. The energy was electric from the start, as DJ Too Much curated a soundtrack that kept the stylish crowd moving between tasting stations.
“The Cookout is rooted in the tradition of how Black communities gather—around food, music, and joy,” said Chef JJ Johnson. “What we created… isn’t just a fun annual event, it was a cultural moment that reverberates all year long.”
Top-Tier Flavors & Legendary Vibes
The star of the show was undoubtedly the food. A premier lineup of Black chefs showcased the brilliance of the Diaspora, offering unlimited tastings that ranged from traditional soul food to modern Afro-Caribbean innovations.
But the surprises didn’t stop at the plate. The afternoon reached a crescendo when hip-hop royalty Fat Joe took the stage. The Bronx legend delivered a high-octane performance of his chart-topping hits, turning the oceanfront venue into the ultimate block party and providing a finale that attendees won’t soon forget.
Party with a Purpose
While the vibes were “top-tier,” the impact of the event goes far beyond the weekend. The Cookout remains a cornerstone of the SOBEWFF® mission, with 100% of net proceeds benefiting the students at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University. By celebrating the present brilliance of Black culture, The Cookout is simultaneously funding the future leaders of the hospitality industry.
Relive the Magic
As Chef JJ put it, this event was about “honoring where we come from while showing the world how we move forward.” If 2026 was any indication, the future of Black excellence in the culinary world is brighter—and tastier—than ever.
Want more culture and cuisine? Follow Chef JJ Johnson and SOBEWFF® on social media to stay updated on next year’s festival!
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Frequently Asked Questions: The Cookout at SOBEWFF® 2026
What is ‘The Cookout’ at SOBEWFF®?
The Cookout is a signature event at the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival® hosted by Chef JJ Johnson. It celebrates the culinary heritage of the African Diaspora through food, music, and Black excellence.
Who performed at The Cookout in 2026?
Hip-hop legend Fat Joe provided a special headline performance, joined by musical curation from the internationally acclaimed DJ Too Much.
Where does the money from SOBEWFF® go?
100% of net proceeds from the festival, including The Cookout, benefit the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU).
Where was The Cookout 2026 held?
The event took place poolside at the iconic Eden Roc Miami Beach during the 25th Annual festival on February 21, 2026.
