In a vibrant episode of the ArtiGras podcast, host Sarah LaPierre welcomed Kerri Paizzi, the CEO of Flavor South Florida, to dive into a form of art that engages every single sense: the culinary arts.

From her roots in New York to her current role as a driving force in the South Florida food scene, Kerri shared insights on how a month-long dining event became a community lifeline and a cultural phenomenon.

The Evolution of Flavor South Florida

Flavor South Florida isn’t just a dining promotion; it’s an institution nearly 20 years in the making. Founded in 2007 by Briana Beaty, the event began with just 10 restaurants. Today, it has grown into a massive movement that spans from the Treasure Coast through Palm Beach County.

Why September? September is statistically the slowest month for the restaurant industry. Paizzi describes Flavor as a "lifeline" for local businesses. By offering curated, multi-course menus at discounted prices (ranging from $35 to $70+), the event encourages locals and tourists alike to step out of their comfort zones.

"It’s a happy thing. When people gather around the table for a meal, you’re likely with friends, family... food is a subliminal comfort that people don't even notice, but they feel." — Kerri Paizzi

More Than Just a Meal: The Art of Food

Throughout the conversation, Sarah and Kerri explored why the culinary world belongs on an arts podcast. For Kerri, food is a highly creative endeavor that mirrors the fine arts:

The Visuals: Kerri shared a story about a "heavy" news week where she felt she needed more beauty on her feed. She realized she had accidental photos of dishes from 10 different restaurants—all featuring edible flowers.
The Craft: It’s not just about the food; it’s about the "small-batch" ceramic plating, the custom flatware (Paizzi is a self-proclaimed "fork snob"), and the curated mixology programs that treat a cocktail like a masterpiece.
The Experience: Paizzi discussed "Dining in the Dark" as one of her most memorable sensory experiences, noting how removing sight heightens the taste and smell of the art on the plate.

A Sneak Peek: Flavor Meets ArtiGras

This year, the worlds of fine art and food collide as Flavor South Florida sponsors the ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival (February 14th–15th).

Kerri will be MCing the Cisco Chef Showcase, where six independent chefs will perform live demos and provide tastings for festival-goers. One notable highlight includes Nenah’s Bakery, which features "artist palette" cakes that allow guests to "paint" their own treats with colored icing—a literal marriage of art and food.

Kerri’s Tips for the Ultimate Dining Experience

As a veteran of the industry (having started as a hostess at age 16), Kerri has a few rules for anyone looking to elevate their night out:

Do Your Homework: "Google the menu. Have a game plan so you aren't sticker-shocked or disappointed by the options."
Be Kind: "The servers are there to help you. You’re likely to get what you’re giving."
Appreciate the Effort: Recognize that you aren't just paying for ingredients; you're paying for a curated environment where someone else handles the prep, the cooking, and the dishes.

Connecting with the Movement

Flavor South Florida is a collaborative effort. Paizzi emphasizes that it isn't "her" program—it belongs to the diners, the influencers, and the chefs.

How to stay involved:

Menu Drop: Keep an eye out for the 2026 menu drop during the first week of August.
Expansion: Look for more participation as the event continues to grow in the Treasure Coast.
Follow Along: Get your foodie fix on Instagram at @flavorsouthflorida or visit flavorsouthflorida.com.

As Kerri reminds us, whether it's through a beautiful plate of pasta or a local art festival, the goal remains the same: Just be happy.