For the third year in a row, the Ocala Food and Wine Festival is returning to the World Equestrian Center (WEC). The event, which features celebrity chefs, food, wine, and more, will be held from November 3 through 5, 2023, with options available to attend the entirety of the weekend or to visit only on Saturday for the “Taste of Ocala” expo.

And, since the WEC is home to the Equestrian Hotel as well, guests can make a weekend out of being immersed in the beautiful hotel and grounds while sipping and tasting their way through the festival.

There’s no shortage of restaurants at Sparkman Wharf. Still, only one sits nestled in a prime spot on the corner of Channelside and Garrison, beckoning passersby to sit and have a margarita on one of its breezy patios. In fact, there’s never been a time of day when I walk past Jotoro and don’t feel a wistful moment of wishing I could abandon all other plans, grab an outdoor seat, and order a paloma and some Street Corn Chicken Nachos. It’s a “hip-hop meets mariachi” and “sequins mix with sandals” vibe, according to the Jotoro website, and I couldn’t agree more.