Miami Beach, FL – March 12, 2020 – Over 250 ravenous foodies joined an elite group of South Florida’s top chefs for the 9th Annual Slow Food Miami “Snail of Approval” Tasting Party. The event, held at The Palms Hotel & Spa, raised money for Slow Food Miami, the local 100% volunteer non-profit dedicated to “planting a fresher future for our children.” The annual event generated enough funds for 37 new edible gardens throughout the community.

This unforgettable evening was made possible thanks to partnerships with The Palms Hotel & Spa, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, JetSet Sounds, Big Cypress, Wicked Dolphin, The Liquid Project, Menu Men Inc., and Brustman Carrino Public Relations. This year, Slow Food Miami presented the Lifetime Snail Award to a special member of the Miami culinary community – Chef Michael Schwartz of Michael’s Genuine – for his longtime commitment to sourcing local and support of the Slow Food movement. Additionally, Chef Allen Susser of The Café at Books and Books, was honored with the Restaurant Snail Influencers Award for being a pioneer in the Slow Food Movement here in Miami, even before there was a moment. And both chefs were recognized for their leadership as they mentor young industry professionals in the art of local and sustainable sourcing. At the poolside soirée at The Palms Hotel & Spa, Miami’s environmentally conscious chefs lent their talents to raise funds and were in turn celebrated for their “Snail of Approval” recognition, made possible by their contribution to the quality, authenticity and sustainability of our food supply. The event featured farm-to-table bites and drinks from Snail of Approval winners/chefs/artisans.

Guests indulged in tastes from Miami’s farm-to-table best, including a mix of current and past “Snail of Approval” honorees; Box Greens, Fullei Fresh, Florida Avenue Catering, Joi, Mi-Talia, Pastelito Papi, Planta, Table 55, Nativo Kitchen + Bar, The Spillover, The Café at Books & Books, Burlock Coast, Drigo The Culinary Alchemist, Essensia Restaurant & Lounge at The Palms Hotel, Gables Delight, Luke’s Lobster, Miami Smokers, The Jim & Neesie, The Brick, Babe’s Meat & Counter, Dasher and Crank, Frice Cream, Garcia Nevett Chocolatier de Miami, Counter Culture Kombucha, Peekaboo Creamery, Per’La Specialty Roasters, Radiate Kombucha, Titanic Brewery, Wynwood Brewing, PG Tropicals, Seasons Farm Fresh, and Veza Sur. Follow @SlowFoodMiami on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for additional Slow Food Miami news and events.