It was a hefty billing to live up to when Thrillist named the local Del Mar Wine & Food Festival one of the “Best Food Festivals” in the country in just its third year. Photo Credit: Olivia ValdezFestivities kicked off with the Opening Night Party at Monarch Ocean Pub, hosted by San Diego FC and Food Network judge Troy Johnson. At the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, soccer legend Alex Morgan hosted the Game Changers Dinner. Photo Credit: Matt FurmanThe weekend wrapped with the two-day Grand Tasting, which transformed Del Mar—a massive, sprawling food festival on the weirdly perfect pro-soccer grass at Surf Sports Park. Photo Credit: Kristen VincentThis year’s winners:It was a big hype to live up to, but 2025 Del Mar Wine + Food Festival proved once again why it’s one of the hottest tickets in town.