Beards & Benchmark Beer; Boba Expansion; New Pizza

GRANTVILLE— This month marks Benchmark Brewing Co.'s first anniversary and they're celebrating a number of ways, including a birthday weekend, June 27 to 29, that'll feature cupcakes from PubCakes paired with San Diego 71 IIPA in a keeper glass. Throughout June, the brewery will also honor owner and brewmaster Matt Akin and his ginger beard by offering discounts and specials to everyone who comes into a tasting room wearing a red beard, either naturally-grown or self-crafted. [EaterWire]

KEARNY MESA— A tipster alerted us to the impending opening of It's BobaTime at 4344 Convoy St. Suite A. The SoCal-based chain's menu features smoothies, fresh juices, frozen yogurt and shaved ice that can be customized with toppings and boba. [EaterWire]

CARMEL VALLEY— Another reader shared that Crust Pizzeria, whose original location is in Carlsbad, is expanding and opening another spot further south in the Torrey Hills shopping center space that use to house Taste of Italy (4653 Carmel Mountain Rd.) [EaterWire]