Inside InterContinental Miami’s Culinary Vision for the Make-A-Wish Ball’s “Crystal Castle”

The 31st Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball returns on Saturday, November 7, 2026, and this year the black-tie gala goes full winter wonderland. Its theme, “Crystal Castle,” invites guests into a shimmering realm of ice and moonlight set in the snowy Celestine Peaks.

Held at InterContinental Miami, the ball benefits Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, which creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Over the years, the gala has raised more than $50 million and helped grant more than 9,000 wishes.

Behind the menu is Francesco Martini, executive chef of InterContinental Miami, and his culinary team. Haute Living asked the chef how the Crystal Castle theme shaped the night’s dining, from the reception to dessert.

How has the “Crystal Castle” theme inspired your culinary vision?
“Crystal Castle” inspired a menu with delicate textures, luminous colors, and refined presentations. We wanted each course to capture the evening’s sense of elegance and wonder while keeping flavor at the heart of the experience.

Can you share an exclusive preview of the dining experience?
The reception takes guests from sushi and tiradito to rich duck wontons and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. For our gala dinner, I’m especially excited about the shrimp carpaccio with Manchego panna cotta and burnt orange, followed by A5 Wagyu tenderloin paired with slow-roasted sea bass.

What does being part of this evening mean to you personally?
As a chef, bringing people together through food is deeply meaningful. Supporting Make-A-Wish gives our work an even greater purpose, and I’m proud of the care our culinary team brings to this memorable evening.

How do you translate a creative theme into a culinary story?
We translate the theme through color, texture, and the progression of flavors. Delicate seafood, rich savory elements, and a fragrant cardamom and nectarine dessert create a journey with moments of surprise.

How do you balance fine dining with serving hundreds of guests?
It takes months of detailed planning, careful preparation, and precise coordination between the kitchen and service teams. Every component must deliver flavor and presentation while allowing us to execute consistently for every guest.

What trends, techniques, or ingredients are inspiring this year’s menu?
I’m inspired by global flavors, vegetable-forward elements, and contrasts in texture. Techniques such as compression, confit, and slow roasting help us build depth, while citrus, herbs, and tea bring freshness and delicate aromatics.

How does such a distinguished audience influence your approach?
It inspires us to create something thoughtful, memorable, and full of discovery. We balance exceptional ingredients with familiar flavors, giving guests room to explore while feeling beautifully cared for.

What do you hope guests remember beyond the dishes?
I hope they remember the warmth of the hospitality and the care behind every plate. Above all, I hope the dining experience adds to the joy and generosity of an evening dedicated to granting many wishes for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.