From his impressively creative Charm City Cakes to his numerous shows on Food Network, Duff Goldman captivates the culinary world. Like many creative types, he sees the world through a different lens and interprets that vision through his medium. At the 2025 South Beach Wine and Food Festival, SOBEWFF, the Duff Goldman Late Night Dessert Party and One Man Show, is an innovative event for the popular food festival.
From his first episodes of Ace of Cakes to his current hosting of Kids Baking Championship, Duff Goldman has been one of the most famous and influential chefs on Food Network. Even though people are astonished the visual complexities of his cakes, Goldman understands he is able to push the envelope because he has honed his craft.
During a recent phone conversation, Goldman spoke candidly about the importance of craft in the culinary world. It is not seeking perfection in a task. Rather, it is the progress through improvement that brings fulfilment.
Goldman said, “craft for what you do and the practice, repetition, and constant is important. You are never going to be perfect, but constantly trying to perfect is part of the experience. Every single chef that I have ever worked for showed me that. It was the number one thing that I took away from those places. The craft of doing something and taking the joy in the process of creation.”
While there is delicious food created during that process, it is more than just a morsel that satisfies. It is about the personal satisfaction while still bringing happiness to others.
Goldman commented, “A delicious cookie is great, but correctly making one is so satisfying. There is joy that you are creating for people. But, there is also something a little selfish in that end result. To be honest, successful chefs are a little bit selfish. Creating that joy for someone else is wonderful and beautiful. It makes you glow inside when you give somebody something that is delicious.” The person eating has a moment, but the person who created that satisfying food also has a moment, too.
Duff Goldman expands his craft at his SOBEWFF special event.
While Duff Goldman might never be satisfied with his food techniques, knowledge and execution, the successful chef is ready to expand his horizons. At the 2025 South Beach Wine and Food Festival, Goldman is taking a step forward to practice another element of his craft, blending storytelling and baking.
Anyone who has watched Goldman over the years appreciates that he has a keen eye that creates visually impressive cakes and recipes. Those jaw dropping moments are more than just a whim. It is one of the reasons why people are drawn to his special events, especially at SOBEWFF.
This year, Goldman is hosting Duff Goldman Late Night Dessert Party and One Man Show. Although some people might assume that he would be on stage with his band, this event is about storytelling with a dash of humor. Of course, there is a dessert in the mix.
Goldman explained, “I love doing demos, but I wanted to do something more than just make food. Throughout this event, I am making my great grandmother’s apple strudel, but I’m telling stories throughout the process. It is a very involved, intricate process, but it goes hand in hand with the show. There is a lot of comedy and there are a lot of funny things that will happen on stage. Through the night, I talk about my story, my family, and my life.”
As a new, unique event for SOBEWFF, this concept captures what people love about the annual food festival. It is more than impeccable dishes created by the world’s best chefs. It is about the connection between the person and the influence on food. At its heart, it is a celebration of community.
Chefs embrace that community aspect. As Goldman said, “One of the things that I love about SOBEWFF is the proximity that you are to everyone. We are all staying in the same place, partying on the same beach. Everyone is going to these events and you get to interact and hang out with people.”
“I love the fan interaction. The more that I get to meet people, the better I am on the Food Network. At these events, I get to hear what people like about the shows and what they don’t like. It really helps me to connect with everyone.”
Where can you find Goldman when he is not at his event? He likes to hang backstage at his friends’ demos. He said, “It is the space where you get to see all your friends. Sometimes we crash each other’s stages. Plus, when someone like Andrew Zimmern is on stage, you know that he is going to make something amazing and you have to get a taste of it.”
During the multi-day SOBEWFF event, everyone will be laughing, enjoying, and connecting over great food. For guests who want to enjoy a laugh, a few poignant moments, and a celebration of baking craft, do not miss the Duff Goldman Dessert Party and One Man Show.
The Duff Goldman Dessert Party and One Man Show at South Beach Wine and Food Festival will be held on Saturday, February 22 at 9 p.m. Tickets are available online.