The 2026 Georgia Food + Wine Festival is officially the epicenter of Southern culinary innovation, and no one captures its essence better than Chef Jernard Wells. As the festival's Brand Ambassador and the celebrated "Family Chef," Wells recently joined The Ash Said It show to break down the flavor, culture, and "New Soul" philosophy defining this year’s massive celebration at Jim R. Miller Park.

The combination of talent perfectly mirrors the festival’s balance of grit, hospitality, and bold evolution. Even when discussing his legendary Georgia Peach Hot Chicken Sandwich, Wells emphasized that pushing boundaries isn't about discarding tradition; it’s about using "New Soul" techniques to elevate classic Georgia ingredients, ensuring every bite tells a story of both heritage and high-concept culinary art.

For families attending the Sunday/Funday events, Wells identified the Gourmet Mac & Cheese Bar as the ultimate cross-generational experience. It serves as a culinary bridge where a child’s comfort food meets a connoisseur’s palate through artisanal cheeses and smoked brisket toppings. This focus on family is at the heart of Wells' mission, transforming a simple meal into a core memory for the thousands of attendees flocking to Marietta.

The conversation heated up when discussing the "Fired-Up" live-fire cooking event. Wells argued that Georgia barbecue is the state's most profound historical narrator. Unlike other methods, live-fire cooking requires a community to gather around the flame, representing a history of resilience and shared connection. This year, that energy moves from the screen to the stage with the debut of the Chef’s Table Experience. Wells noted that while his CLEO TV audience is vast, the "culinary theater" of a live, five-course seated audience in Marietta provides an electric, visceral energy that only immediate feedback and shared atmosphere can provide.

Ultimately, Chef Jernard Wells views the 2026 Georgia Food + Wine Festival as more than just a tasting event; it is a platform for culture, connection, and purpose. As visitors depart Jim R. Miller Park, Wells hopes they carry home a story of Georgia’s culinary future—one where food isn't just sustenance, but a powerful tool for bridging divides and fostering a more inclusive, flavorful community.

🎫 2026 Georgia Food & Wine Festival Tickets: https://www.georgiafoodandwine...

👨🏾‍🍳 Chef Jernard Wells: https://chefjernard.com

🧈 Cornbread and Butter: https:/cornbreadandbutter.com/

About The Event:

Experience the ultimate Southern culinary tradition at the 2026 Georgia Food + Wine Festival, a premier three-day event showcasing the best chefs, beverage artisans, and farmers in the Southeast. Located in the heart of the Atlanta-Marietta corridor, this festival has evolved from a local favorite into a world-class destination for foodies seeking authentic hospitality and innovative flavors.

From high-energy live cooking demonstrations to intimate, curated tastings, the Georgia Food + Wine Festival highlights the local makers and premium ingredients that define Georgia’s food culture. Whether you are exploring craft beverages or engaging with top-tier culinary talent, every moment of the weekend is designed to foster connection and celebrate the vibrant community that makes the Atlanta food scene a national leader.

Beyond the plate, the festival serves a greater purpose through its partnership with SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center. Since its inception, the event has donated over $75,000 to support SafePath’s mission of providing safety, hope, and healing for children in need. By attending, guests don’t just experience an unforgettable culinary weekend—they contribute directly to critical community advocacy and support.

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