Helm to Hearth Culinary Weekend
Helm to Hearth is an immersive culinary weekend held each April at Three Waters Resort in Islamorada, Florida, blending acclaimed coastal cuisine with the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. This signature food and wine experience brings together James Beard Award–winning and Michelin‑starred chefs for milestone moments like fishing with the chefs, beachfront meet‑and‑greets, and a Saturday‑night seven‑course dinner set against the ocean. Designed to celebrate sustainable seafood and island culture, Helm to Hearth also benefits the Coral Restoration Foundation, making it one of the most meaningful culinary events in the Florida Keys.
Helm to Hearth | April 16–18, 2027
Be part of the third annual Helm to Hearth, a one-of-a-kind oceanfront culinary celebration where flavor meets purpose. This unforgettable weekend features seven acclaimed chefs who will showcase their talents through bold, sustainable dishes that honor the bounty of the sea. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Coral Restoration Foundation, promoting marine conservation.
Full 2027 Chef Line-Up Coming Soon
Confirmed Chefs:
FEATURED CHEF: Chef Norman Van Aken
James Beard Award-Winning Culinary Pioneer
The only chef in Florida's history to receive the James Beard Foundation's Who's Who of Food & Beverage in America honor, Chef Norman Van Aken is widely recognized as the Founding Father of New World Cuisine. Credited with introducing the term "fusion cooking" in 1991, his groundbreaking approach has shaped American cuisine for more than four decades.
Chef Michael Beltran
James Beard Award Semifinalist and Michelin-Starred Chef
Chef Michael Beltran is the chef and owner of the Michelin-starred Ariete, along with Chug's Diner, Navarro's, and other acclaimed concepts in Miami. Celebrated for his modern interpretation of Cuban-American cuisine, Beltran has become one of South Florida's most influential culinary voices.
Chef Eileen Andrade
James Beard Award Semifinalist & Champion of Modern Cuban Cuisine
Chef Eileen Andrade is the chef and owner of beloved Miami restaurants: Finka Table & Tap, Amelia's 1931, and Barbakoa by Finka, that have developed a cult following with locals and visitors alike. Known for blending her Cuban heritage with bold global flavors, Andrade has earned national recognition for redefining Latin cuisine through a fresh, contemporary lens.
Offshore & Backcountry Fishing with Chefs
Experience offshore fishing with James Beard Award-winning and Michelin-stared chefs on Friday morning, followed by a cook-your-catch lunch at Tiki Bar.
Friday Night Reception with Chef Meet & Greet
Welcome Reception on the Beach hosted by Paul Hobbs Winery. Mix and mingle with the chefs under the stars, featuring bites by Islamorada Resort Collection’s Executive Chef Philip Tur, wine from Paul Hobbs Winery, and tastings by Volcan de mi Tierra, TruMan Vodka, Frey Ranch Whiskey, and Aperol.
Interactive Classes
Learn the art of Southern biscuit making with Callie's Hot Little Biscuit! In this class, you’ll get a tutorial from Callie's Hot Little Biscuit's founder, Carrie Morey, on how to make our classic Buttermilk Biscuits. You'll then get your own hands in the dough to create your own buttermilk biscuits by hand using our award-winning recipe. While you handmade biscuits are baking, enjoy a taste of Charleston with a variety of our handmade biscuits + accoutrements, a bloody mary or mimosa by Winebow - and take home your beautifully baked biscuits at the end!
Saturday Night Seven-Course Dinner
Enjoy a cocktail hour at Kindler followed by a seven-course dinner with each course crafted by one of our featured chefs and wine pairings by Argyle Winery.
Sunday Oceanside Brunch
Enjoy an oceanfront brunch at Three Waters Resort, sponsored by Veuve Clicquot and Aperol Spritz. Wrap the weekend with live-action chef stations, signature brunch dishes by all seven chefs, and an open bar.
Silent Auction
Explore an exceptional collection of curated vacation packages while giving back— all Silent Auction proceeds support the Coral Restoration Foundation, advancing sustainable culinary practices and the preservation of our marine ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Helm to Hearth kid-friendly?
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Can I attend Helm to Hearth for just one day?
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Do I have to stay at the resort to attend Helm to Hearth?
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What is the Helm to Hearth dinner at Kindler?
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Can Helm to Hearth accommodate dietary restrictions or food allergies?
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I've never fished. Do I need experience to Fish with the Chefs?