The Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation (FWFWF) invites residents to its annual Night Market on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Shack at Panther Island Pavilion. The outdoor street‑market style event will feature emerging chefs, a craft cocktail competition, live music and family‑friendly entertainment.
Tickets and charitable purpose
General admission costs $65 per person and can be purchased online. All ticket sales go directly to the foundation’s scholarship and grant programs that assist food‑service workers seeking education and career advancement.
Food and beverage offerings
Attendees can sample a variety of global flavors from food trucks, family‑run restaurants and new concepts. Menu highlights include chicken laab with sticky rice, shoyu ahi poke nacho bites, barbacoa‑topped churro bites and other dishes inspired by Mexico City, Laos, Vietnam and classic soul food. The foundation asks guests with dietary restrictions to let chefs know their needs; booths will display ingredient and allergen information, and vegetarian and gluten‑free options will be available. For those who prefer not to drink alcohol, a wine booth will serve zero‑proof wine.
Mixologist competition
Professional bartenders from local establishments will compete for the Best in Show cocktail trophy. Ivy Lopez, FWFWF public‑relations representative, said the competition showcases the artistry and camaraderie of the city’s mixologists. Winners receive a commemorative plaque and bragging rights among peers.
Family considerations
Children, including infants, will not be permitted entry, so families should arrange a sitter. Service animals are the only animals allowed on the premises.
Comments from the foundation
Julie Eastman, executive director of the FWFWF, encourages attendees to “come hungry” and promises a night that feels like “a big party” for emerging food and beverage concepts. She noted that the Night Market offers a different vibe from the larger spring Food + Wine Festival—more intimate, louder and more vibrant, with street‑food‑inspired bites from around the world.
Participating vendors
This year marks the first participation for Paradiso and Flama Blanca. Additional hospitality groups and eateries will be announced as the event approaches.
Community impact
Beyond the culinary experience, the Night Market supports the foundation’s mission to nurture the next generation of food‑service professionals. By directing ticket revenue to scholarships and grants, the event helps ensure that skilled workers have access to training and career‑building opportunities in the Fort Worth area.
For more information or to submit restaurant tips, readers can contact Erin Ratigan at [email protected]. Follow the journalist on X at @erinratigan for updates.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
