Chef Ben Robinson, the executive chef star of Bravo's Below Deck and Below Deck Mediterranean, will appear at the 2026 Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival on Saturday, September 26th at westdrift Manhattan Beach. The appearance marks his first California food and wine festival debut. Robinson will join approximately 50 all-star chefs and 50 world-class wine and spirits producers for the festival's Grand Tasting. Festival Founder Shelby Russell said: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Chef Ben Robinson to Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Ben brings an incredible combination of culinary talent, personality and international star power to the festival. The fact that he is traveling from Florida specifically to join us, and that this will be his first food and wine festival appearance in California, makes his participation incredibly special."

Robinson's Television Presence Robinson rose to international prominence as the executive chef aboard luxury yachts on the Below Deck franchise, where his culinary creativity and demanding standards made him a fan favorite. He has continued to build his reputation through appearances in numerous Below Deck reunions and specials, cultivating a significant global audience.

Festival Details The 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine takes place September 25–26, 2026.

The event is restricted to guests 21 and older. VIP early entry runs 6:00–7:00 p.m., with regular admission from 7:00–10:00 p.m. Exclusive hotel packages at westdrift Manhattan Beach are available. Tickets are on sale at www.ManhattanBeachFoodandWine.com.

Why It Matters

Celebrity chef appearances and television personalities drive significant attendance and media buzz for food festivals. Robinson's Below Deck following represents a cross-demographic audience beyond traditional food-world enthusiasts, expanding the festival's consumer reach and creating additional revenue opportunity through sponsorships and VIP experiences.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors