The BBQ Dinner hosted by Chris Lilly and Jorge Ramos kicked off the third year of the Crave Greater Fort Lauderdale series. The Crave events run in conjunction with the Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival, now in it’s 17th year. The BBQ Dinner was the first in an eleven part series featuring events at various locations around the city highlighting the culinary talents of renowned chefs and leaders in the hospitality industry. http://sobewff.org/

World barbecue champion, Chris Lilly and Executive Chef, Jorge Ramos hosted the family-style dinner at the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach.  This unique dining experience allowed attendees to feast under the stars to a gourmet menu offering traditional barbecue fare as well as the chef’s interpretation on classic comfort food dishes all paired with Jim Bean Black specialty cocktails and Gnarly Head wine. Two items from the barbecue menu the showcased Chris Lilly’s award-winning skills were the Hickory Smoked Loin Back Ribs and the Crusted Prime Beef Short Ribs. The Hickory Smoked Loin Back Ribs made with apple-cherry jalapeno sauce combined a sweet and spicy burst of flavor for this fall-off-the-bone rib dish. The Crusted Beef  Short Ribs had a crispy, seasoned skin with tender, perfectly cooked meat. Jorge Ramos created innovative side dishes that were hearty and healthy compliments to the meal like: Roasted Cauliflower, Charred Baby Carrots and Smashed Pee-Wees.  http://sobewff.org/event-type/crave-ftl/

The Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, which will be celebrating its two year anniversary in June 2018 was the perfect backdrop to this memorable evening. This exclusive property provides guests with elite amenities and a prime location, only steps away from pristine Fort Lauderdale Beach. The hotel and resort boasts breathtaking panoramic views as well as 290 all-suite accommodations that feature peerless design, a gourmet kitchen, an Italian marble bathroom with deep-soaking tub and separate shower, as well as a balcony or terrace. The Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach has been declared “the new beacon of luxury” for its paramount service, elegant atmosphere and unprecedented hospitality. http://stayinspired.com/fort-lauderdale/