Karl Strauss' Pro-Am Competition & I Love Poke Fest

PACIFIC BEACH— Karl Strauss Brewing Company is now accepting submissions for its annual Pro-Am homebrew contest; the entry period ends May 30 at 8 p.m. Judging will take place in early June, with the winner earning the chance to brew his or her recipe with Karl Strauss' brewing team. The beer will be served in Karl Strauss' brewery restaurant locations and be entered into the Pro-Am competition at the Great American Beer Fest this fall. [EaterWire]

SHELTER ISLAND— On Tuesday, May 26 at the Bali Hai Restaurant, the I Love Poke fest, sponsored by ONO YUM, returns for an evening of food sampling and live entertainment. Over 15 local restaurants will be serving island-inspired bites, with chefs competing in a judged poke competition; tickets are $65. [Eaterwire]

CARMEL MOUNTAIN RANCH— Readers have been telling us about a new urban winery, Koi Zen Cellars, which is now open in the Carmel Mountain Business Park and producing wine with grapes from central California. The tasting room open Wednesday through Sunday, offering educational classes and wine by the glass, bottle or flight. On Sunday, Koi Zen is featuring half-priced glasses of its sparkling wine and free wine chocolates for moms. [EaterWire]