July Fourth BBQ at Park & Rec; Encinitas' Bro-Am Restaurant Week

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS— Before you head out for the fireworks, fulfill your Fourth of July barbecue cravings at Park & Rec, where the roving grill masters from BBQ 81 will be serving up a catering menu that ranges from tri-tip and baby back ribs to classic burgers and hot dogs starting at 2 p.m. this Saturday. Sip a cocktail while playing backyard games to the sound of live music; bands are scheduled to play at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., with a DJ taking over when the sun goes down. [EaterWire]

ENCINITAS— In conjunction with this year's Switchfoot Bro-Am surf contest and concert, scheduled for Saturday, July 11, is the inaugural Bro-Am Restaurant Week, which runs July 6 to 12. During that timeframe, participating Encinitas eateries including Solace & the Moonlight Lounge, Priority Public House, Ironsmith Coffee Roasters and more will be donating a percentage of sales to the Bro-Am Foundation, which supports local charities such as Feeding America San Diego and the Encinitas Youth Scholarship Fund. [EaterWire]

GASLAMP— On July 14, Union Kitchen & Tap is hosting a beer pairing dinner with local Groundswell Brewing Company. The $45 event includes five courses, from a charcuterie board to roasted duck breast to rib-eye steak, matched with a beer buddy from Groundswell, including the brewery's Ginger Ale, Brown Ale and Double IPA. Plus, be entertained by live acoustic music provided by the Acoustic Spot. Call (619) 795-9463 to make reservations. [EaterWire]