Boat show chefs, Gridiron Grill-Off among month’s events

Welcome to the latest edition of Hot Plates, your monthly guide to food events and dining promotions around South Florida. November brings the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (and a first-time chef competition), the arrival of snowbirds (and clogged roadways and restaurants) and the departure of pumpkin spice as a seasonal flavor (hello, Christmas peppermint bark!) Oh, yeah, Happy Thanksgiving! Nov. 1: The inaugural Yacht Chef Competition in conjunction with the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show takes place 6:30-10:30 p.m. at the Pier 66 Hotel & Marina, 2301 SE 17th St., in Fort Lauderdale. The evening will feature open bar, food and a cooking competition among top nautical chefs. The evening is emceed by cookbook author and TV personality Ingrid Hoffman, and judges include former Miami Heat great Alonzo Mourning and yours truly. Tickets cost $175 ($300 for two).

Nov. 3: Day of the Dead Fest, featuring a 5K race and a taco, tequila and beer bash, takes place 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. at Gulfstream Park, 901 S. Federal Highway, in Hallandale Beach. The race is in the morning, and the food festival starts at 12:30 p.m. The event is family-friendly. Admission is $7, with VIP packages including food and beverage available for $75.

Nov. 5: Wilton Manors hosts Taste of the Island, a one-night festival to benefit local charities featuring 30 South Florida restaurants and breweries. The 6-9 p.m. event takes place at Rich-