Juniper & Ivy to Re-Release Menu Classics

It's officially Friday: time to clock off and get those weekend vibes started. No plans yet? No problem. Eater's here with a handy round up of lesser-discussed neighborhoods, recently opened restaurants, unsung heroes, new-to-you bars, events, seasonal menu changes and cocktail programs, chef debuts and more. Whether you’re hankering for an after-work happy hour — or the lowdown on this weekend’s culinary events, beer festivals or Sunday brunch bites — our regular weekly feature will be sure to help you make the most of that well-earned downtime.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8

Juniper & Ivy to Bring Back Fan Favorites

Juniper and Ivy will be celebrating its five year anniversary by bringing back beloved dishes from the restaurants first opening menu. Starting on the official anniversary of opening day, March 3, dishes will begin to roll out with more favorites to follow for the next four weeks. Guests can expect classics like squid ink linguine and clams, beef cheek dumplings, grape toast, and more to make its way back to the menu.

An’s Dry Cleaning and Mia Sorella Chimney Cakes’ sweet pop-up

Courtesy An’s Dry Cleaning

Starting at 2 p.m. this Sunday, March 10 at An’s Adams Avenue storefront is a one-day pop-up partnership between the gelato shop and Mia Sorella, a farmer’s market vendor that specializes in Eastern European chimney cakes. The cylindrical sweet pastries will be baked on site and filled to order with housemade gelato from An’s Dry Cleaning in flavors ranging from Cashmere (goat cheese & honey), Termeh (saffron, vanilla and pistachio) to Polyester (maple syrup, pecan) and Brocade (triple chocolate and cookie butter).

Chef’s Roll to throw Beefsteak Beef & Beer Event

Chef’s Roll will hold a Beefsteak event on March 21 at Fireside n Liberty Station. An all you can eat beef & beer event featuring 6 cuts of Brandt beef cooked by live fire by Phil Esteban of Craft & Commerce, Top Chef alumnus Giselle Wellman, James Montejano of Huntress Steakhouse, Aaron Obregon of the Coronado Island Marriott, Chris Spayde of the Island Palms Hotel and Marina, Eric Manuel of the Dana and more will be on offer. All money raised will go to No Kid Hungry through Chefs Cycle. Tickets are available here.

Everbowl Offering Free Smoothie Bowl Promotion

Next week, Everbowl will open two more San Diego locations on Thursday, March 14 – one in Hillcrest and the other in Little Italy. To celebrate, Everbowl will be passing out free, build-your-own acai and pitaya bowls. In Hillcrest, the bowls will be offered from 3-6 p.m. and in Little Italy the bowls will be offered from 5-8 p.m.

Taste Venture Tours to Host Beer Launch at Thorn Barrio Logan

Barrio Logan-based tour company Taste Venture Tours is hosing a beer launch event at Thorn’s Barrio Logan location on March 9. The ‘Behind The Beer’ Tour is an exclusive look into the beer making process at Thorn Brewing and will be the first iteration of the company’s new addition to its Cultural Food & Beer Crawl Barrio Logan tour. A beer flight is included with the RSVP here.

Richard Walker’s Pancake House opens in Carlsbad’s Bressi Ranch

Richard Walker’s Pancake House has opened a third San Diego County location in Carlsbad. Situated in the middle of the new Square at Bressi Ranch at 2656 Gateway Road, the 1,700 square-foot restaurant, which was constructed by the local company CLTVT, will include a spacious, pet-friendly outdoor dining space. The Carlsbad store marks the fifth location, overall, of the San Diego chain.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Fernside to Host George Harrison Tribute

Haley Hill Photography

Fernside and Tribute have teamed up to create a 5+ course dinner inspired by Beatles legend George Harrison. This vegetarian friendly dinner has an optional cocktail pairing and will be accompanied by the sights and sounds of Magpie. The event takes place on February 25 and runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here.

Private Dining and a Cocktail Pairing

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The Gaslamp location of Searsucker and You & Yours Distilling Co. are teaming up to put on a special dinner schedule for 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 28. Held in Searsucker’s speakeasy-style private dining room, it will feature a five-course dinner of some of the restaurant’s signature dishes including grilled octopus with cucumber, avocado and chili and the 40-ounce tomahawk ribey with creative cocktails from the East Village distillery. Tickets can be purchased here.

Mexico In A Bottle Returns

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Early bird ticket sales for Mexico in a Bottle end February 28th —after that the general admission price of $75 kicks in. The event is March 10th from 4-7 p.m. at Bread and Salt in Barrio Logan. There will be a line up of more than 140 mezcals, tequilas, Mexican rums, whiskies, beers and wines for this year’s event. Full details are here.

Bankers Hill Art & Craft Beer Tickets On Sale

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The Bankers Hill Art & Craft Beer Festival in partnership with the San Diego Brewers Guild will return for its seventh year running on Friday, March 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. Taking place throughout the two levels of The Abbey on Fifth Avenue, a historic 10,000-square foot venue, the event will showcase a range of San Diego craft breweries and Bankers Hill restaurants alongside pop-up galleries of local artists’ works and live DJ music.

Tequila & Taco Music Festival to Hold Third Annual Event

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On April 27 and 28 the Tequila & Taco Music Festival will be returning for its third year to the Embarcadero Marina Park South. The festival will feature exclusive tequila sampling on Saturday with entertainment, food trucks and other libations for available for purchase throughout the weekend.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Lionfish, the seafood-centric restaurant located inside the Pendry Hotel, has announced its recognition as a James Beard Foundation Smart Catch Leader for 2019.

“We are committed to sustainable sourcing, and I’m really happy I’m able to support something as essential as Smart Catch with The James Beard Foundation. I care deeply about our oceans, growing up in San Diego, as it’s been a huge part of my life and lifestyle. I’m flattered to be a part of something that’s truly changing the way chefs and diners feel about food and the importance of sustainability in seafood,” says Executive chef/partner Jose “JoJo” Ruiz of Lionfish in an emailed statement.

San Diego Bartender Shakedown comes to Bartender’s Weekend

The San Diego Bartender Shakedown is an event that brings together some of the best bars in San Diego during Bartender’s Weekend. There are two ticket options for the March 2 event: the VIP tickets allow attendees access to the event at 6 p.m. (one hour early), plus admission to the VIP lounge thought the duration of the event. General Admission Tickets allow access to the event at 7 p.m. without access to the VIP area. All tickets include access to the event, where guests will be able to sample craft cocktails from Campfire, False Idol, Tahona, Fernside, Kindred, Lion’s Share and more.

Chef Jason McLeod Launches New Chef’s Catch Dinner Series

Chef Jason McLeod of Ironside Fish & Oyster is excited to announce a reinterpretation of his Chef’s Catch Dinner Series for 2019. This event will now showcase a noteworthy chef from around the country to cook alongside the Ironside team for two nights once a month. Diners will be treated to a special a la carte menu crafted by the featured chef alongside the Ironside menu and daily specials. The a la carte menu will have approximately 5-6 items highlighting seafood from McLeod’s beloved Tuna Harbor Dockside Market with most of the guest chefs making their first trip to the dockside market. The first Chef’s Catch Dinner Series kicks off on February 26 and 27 with Chef Daniel Heinze from Los Angeles of Joint Venture Restaurant Group (Restaurateurs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo).

Kitchens For Good to Host New Cooking Demo Series

Kitchens For Good is hosting a new bi-monthly event series, where guests a five-course tasting menu and paired drinks as they learn from chefs during a live cooking demo. All proceeds from the event will support Kitchens for Good and their culinary job training program. The first, on March 24, features Tommy Gomes of Catalina Offshore Products, Hanis Cavin of Carnitas Snack Shack and Sam The Cooking Guy from Not Not Tacos.

Tastemakers Coming to San Diego

tasteMAKERS is a new culinary series airing nationally on public television, including on KPBS Create. The focus is on telling the stories of makers, farmers and chefs who are creating authentic local products and they are bringing the show to life with our event series, Meet the Makers. The nine-city event tour kicked off in Houston in November, and we are heading to San Diego next! We will be hosting Meet the Makers on Sunday, February 17 at Montezuma Hall. Tickets can be purchased here.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1

The Deck at Moonshine Flats

The Deck, the open-air extension of Moonshine Flats, has football fans covered this Super Bowl Sunday. Fans can pick from game day favorites like $3 Jell-O shots, $20 buckets of domestic beers and $12 Champagne bottles. Discounted food, like the bacon-wrapped hot dog, Cali breakfast burrito, kielbasa breakfast sandwich or the Bavarian pretzels, will also be available. There will also be a “tailgate” zone at The Deck with backyard games, picnic tables and a state-of-the art A/V set up with games on sound. Doors open at 9am.

Duck Donuts

Duck Donuts in Encinitas is in full celebration mode to support the Rams heading to the Super Bowl. The store is currently offering a special “Big Game” assortment featuring Rams-inspired colors (see attached or below photo as an example). In addition, if the Rams win, customers can enjoy a free regular hot coffee Monday following the Super Bowl.

Draft Republic

With two locations in San Diego in La Jolla and Carlsbad, Draft Republic will be serving happy hour specials all day long for Super Bowl Sunday.

Theatre Box

The Gaslamp Quarter’s exciting new entertainment complex, Theatre Box, will host Super Bowl viewing parties at Sugar Factory American Brasserie and inside its dine-in luxury cinemas, each with featured food and beverage packages.

Sugar Factory American Brasserie will show the game on a 200-square-foot screen and offer a tailgate-style buffet serving chicken wings, sliders, onion rings and more. To complement the tailgate feast, Sugar Factory will offer its full menu of beer, wine and cocktails, including its famed smoking candy goblets. Food and beverage packages are priced at $49 for adults and $20 for children ages 12 and under.

TCL Chinese Theatre’s luxury dine-in cinema, located on the second level at Theatre Box, will offer exclusive viewing packages for fans to watch the game from reserved seats. Ticket packages include: two beers and a tub of popcorn, priced at $15; or one beer, tub of popcorn and Sugar Factory burger, an Angus beef patty topped with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, crispy onions, cheddar cheese and Sugar Factory sauce on a toasted brioche bun, priced at $25. Tickets for children 12 and under, priced at $10, include a tub of popcorn or bag of gourmet popcorn with options including kettle corn; jalapeño cheddar; or zebra, popcorn striped with fine dark and white chocolate. The full menu of food and drinks will also be available for purchase.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25

Provisional at The Pendry Gets a New Menu

Provisional Kitchen, Cafe and Mercantile recently revamped its entire menu, shifting towards an entirely Italian-inspired flavors. Standout dishes include a range of wood-fired pizzas, bucatini bolognese, veal Milanese and a dry-aged tomahawk chop.

Eppig Brewing Announces New Production Facility

Eppig Brewing recently signed a lease for new production brewing location in Vista. The new location is located approximately five miles east of Interstate 5 and about one mile from Pizza Port Bressi Ranch.

Masters Kitchen & Cocktail Welcomes a New Executive Chef

Masters Kitchen & Cocktail announced the hire of executive chef André Clark II, who comes to the restaurant by way of Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant and Vintana. Prior to that, he worked at Merriman’s, The Pineapple Grill, Lahaina Five Palms, The Kahana Grill and Koa Seaside Grill in Hawaii.

Iron Horse Wine Brunch

This February, La Valencia and The Med are hosting a multi-course al fresco brunch featuring the sparkling wines of Iron Horse Vineyards. The brunch will be paired with dishes prepared by chef Alex Emery and guests of the brunch will also learn to saber a bottle of wine as well as take home their own Iron Horse bottle. The Iron Horse brunch will start at 1pm, where guests will be greeted with a reception sip and bite. Then it’s on to the brunch table for an afternoon of food and wine. Reservations are required and can be booked through OpenTable or on La Valencia’s website through ‘The Hotel/La V Events’ tab: http://www.lavalencia.com/la-v-events.aspx

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18

DoggosGus at Tuétano Taqueria

On January 22 from 4-8 p.m. DoggosGus is hosting a hot dog and birria event at San Ysidro’s Tuétano Taqueria. Tijuana-style bacon hot dogs will be topped with birria and other creations will be served.

Kitchens For Good to Cook for Furloulghed San Diegans

As the government shutdown drags into its fifth week, 8,000 Federal Employees in San Diego await a paycheck. For furloughed federal workers affected by the shutdown, Kitchens for Good welcomes them to FED UP: a free gourmet meal prepared by Kitchens for Good chefs and culinary students. FED UP will take place on Wednesday, January 23, at Kitchens for Good from Noon - 4pm. Federal workers, whose compensation has been delayed, are invited to bring their families to this community luncheon. In partnership with Feeding San Diego, groceries will also be available for participants to take home following the event. Free parking is available onsite at The Jacobs Center, 404 Euclid Ave, San Diego.

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters Wins 2019 National Good Food Award in Coffee Division

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters was honored this past weekend with a 2019 Good Food Award in the coffee division with their Geisha XO coffee. The Good Food Award for coffee is awarded to those who were distinguished by exemplary flavor as well as social responsibility practices from seed to cup. Additionally, this month Bird Rock received the only high score of 97 points for their Perci Lot 50 from Panama, the highest score given to coffee by Coffee Review in years.

The Whiskey House Breaks a World Record

On January 15, The Whiskey House hosted a party, where an official judge from the Guinness Book of World Records counted their bottles and award The Whiskey House with the world record of “The Most Whiskey Available Commercially In The World.”

FRIDAY, JANUARY 11

Animae Adds Joe Magnanelli as Executive Chef & Partner

Haley Hill

After almost 13 years with the Urban Kitchen Group, Joe Magnanelli will be joining Animae as executive chef and partner. Animae, a Puffer Malarkey Restaurant located on the ground floor of Bosa’s Pacific Gate building is set to open in Spring 2019.

Jason McLeod Launches New Chef’s Catch Dinner Series

Chef Jason McLeod of Ironside Fish & Oyster has announced the launch of a reinterpretation of his Chef’s Catch Dinner Series for 2019. This once-ticketed event will now showcase a noteworthy chef from around the country to cook alongside the Ironside team for two nights once a month.

The Grass Skirt Launches a Chef’s Table Dinner Series

The Grass Skirt will launch a Chef’s Table dinner series on January 23 at 6:30 p.m. In the same fashion as their sister restaurant Kettner Exchange, The Grass Skirt will be hosting their inaugural Chef’s Table dinner with a specialty menu curated by Chef Brian Redzikowski including pork larb, pho dip, Hong Kong toast and more. A full menu can be found here and reservations are. recommended.

Gerard Bertrand Brunch at JRDN

On January 20 from 11 am to 1 pm, JRDN will be hosting their second Bubbles and Brunch event. This time featuring Gerard Bertrand Winery, the brunch will feature paired wines with a three-course brunch prepared by Chef Dave Warner. Tickets are $59 and include a three-course brunch with wine pairings. Tax and gratuity are included in pricing. To purchase tickets, please call (858) 270-2323 or visit here.

Tocaya Organica to Open in Westfield UTC

Tocaya Organica will open in Westfield UTC at the end of January. Following the Gaslamp District, this will be Tocaya’s second location in San Diego County and their 11^th location overall.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4

Taquiza at Tuétano Taqueria

San Ysidro’s Tuétano Taqueria will be the location for a taquiza hosted by Baja Wine & Food. $40 will get guests four “elevated” tacos paired with four Baja California wines. The event will take place on January 12 and tickets can be purchased here.

Casa Noble Tequila Dinner at C Level

Prodigal chef Travis Swikard will be guest cooking a. four-course dinner paired with Casa Noble tequila’s global ambassador, David Yan. Tickets are $75 per person. For more information, call (619) 298-6802 or visit here.

Ilegal Mezcal Demo at Tahona

On January 9 Old Town’s Tahona will host a free mezcal education and conversation session hosted by Ilegal Mezcal. The event runs 7-8:30 and will feature a guest speaker: Lorenzo from Don Lorenzo tequila, the house tequila of Cantina Mayahuel.

Bread & Cheese Eatery’s Two Year Anniversary

Bread & Cheese Eatery will be celebrating its two year anniversary on January 6 at Bay City Brewery in Point Loma. Food will be free and Bay City will debut a special beer for the occasion.

Bracero Reunion at El Jardín

Chef Claudette Wilkins will be hosting her friend and old boss, Javier Plascencia, for a six-course Bracero reunion on January 23. Call the restaurant for details at (619) 795-2322.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21

Feast of the Seven Fishes

Catania will be serving its version of the Italian Christmas tradition Feast of the Seven Fishes from December 21 through the 24th. The four-course prix-fixe menu will cost $55 per person.

Natural Style Chicken Opens in Hillcrest

Point Loma’s Natural Style Chicken opens in Hillcrest on Friday, December 21, taking over the former Tokyo Ramen space on the corner of Fifth and University.

Local chef Jaime Doganes wins Guys Grocery Games

Heartwork Hill

Jaime Doganes, a chef at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, was on Guy’s Grocery Games’s most recent season, which she won, receiving a $20,000 prize. Jaime is a Navy veteran who went to the Art Institute of California San Diego upon leaving active duty.

Bencotto Launches Cheese Pasta Bowl

Bencotto now serves their weekly pasta special in a crispy parmesan bowl, which in Italian is called parma piatto. It consists of Parmigiano Reggiano shaved, melted and molded into an edible serving plate. Bencotto’s parma-piatto is available now for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14

Fernside Launches Brunch

South Park neighborhood restaurant and bar Fernside has launched brunch. On the menu is a peanut butter waffle, cornbread french toast, shrimp and grits, corned beef hash and more, including just-for-brunch cocktails.

Stella Jean’s Ice Cream Collaboration with Cowboy Star

Stella Jean’s Ice Cream is working on a collaboration with Jamie Decena, Executive Pastry Chef at Cowboy Star. For the upcoming collaboration with Decena, she’s tapping into her Filipino roots for a Toasted Buttered Pandesal w/ Pandesal Toffee Swirl ice cream, served with an optional Ube waffle cone—a standard vegan & gluten free waffle with ube in it. It will run through the end of December.

Soda & Swine’s New Happy Hour

Soda & Swine is releasing a new happy hour menu. Their greatest hits will be offered Monday-Friday from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. at both North Park and Liberty Station. Guests can indulge with drink specials, pizzas, dirty fries, sliders and buffalo cauliflower, all priced from $2 - $6.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7

San Diego Chef to Cook in Vegas at Dinner Honoring Late Chef Bocuse

San Diego native Travis Swikard—the “Daniel Boulud protege” who will be opening up his first restaurant as chef and owner in San Diego in 2019—has been selected to participate in a chef collaboration dinner on December 12 in Las Vegas alongside some of the best chefs in America. The celebration is part of the events and competitions leading up to the infamous Bocuse d’Or, one of the world’s most prestigious cooking competitions. Chef hosts include Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, Jérôme Bocuse, and Gavin Kaysen, and Travis will be joined alongside other featured chefs to prepare the special menu honoring Chef Bocuse.

Red Fox Room’s Closure Inspires a Petition

Beloved North Park steak restaurant and cabaret bar Red Fox Room’s almost imminent closure has inspired a petition designed to keep it open. The 59-year-old restaurant’s lease is set to expire in March and plans are underway to recreate the spot in a new location across the street.

Big Front Door Launches Breakfast

North Park’s BFD has launched breakfast and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. While it doesn’t have its forthcoming espresso machine just yet, BFD is starting off by serving drip coffee from Café Moto. The menu focuses on breakfast sandwiches, an area that is sorely underserved on San Diego breakfast menus.

Local Breweries Face Closure

San Diego’s craft beer scene was hit with heavy news this week: Five-year-old Council Brewing will shutter, while beleaguered Benchmark Brewing seeks a buyer.

Common Stock Gets Booze

Opened earlier in 2018, Hillcrest’s Common Stock finally received its liquor license this week.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30

Death By Tequila

The new-ish Encinitas Mexican restaurant Death By Tequila recently rolled out a new brunch menu. On offer is Smoked salmon served with dill cream cheese, pickled onions, Meyer lemon, capers and artisanal toast; Huevos rancheros, two eggs over easy served with chorizo, queso fresco, cherry tomatoes and warm tortillas; Eggs “benedicto,” English muffins topped with country ham, slow-poached eggs and hollandaise served with home fries; and Chilaquiles carnitas served with two eggs over easy, salsa verde, queso fresco and cherry tomatoes; among other dishes. Brunch cocktails are also available.

The Grass Skirt

Alen Lin

Dim Sum Brunch will be served at The Grass Skirt at 11 a.m. on December 9. Asian-inspired dishes, including soup dumplings, will be served from traditional rolling carts. Other menu highlights include seared pork belly dumplings, spicy salmon tacos, sweet and sour lamb ribs and spicy szechuan pork wontons. Reservations can be made by calling 858-412-5237.

North Italia

The new Fashion Valley restaurant serves brunch Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. On the menu is a short rib hash with sweet onion, roasted pepper and two fried eggs and baked french toast with vanilla maple syrup and fresh berries. A popular drink pairing option is the ever-popular Aperol spritz.

Hundred Proof

The Hillcrest bar and restaurant’s new beverage director has created a line of cereal-inspired brunch cocktails. One example is the Fruit Loop Fizz, which mixes Kikori rice whiskey, Plantation pineapple rum, lime, passionfruit, clarified butter, angostura bitters and Rice Krispies Orgeat.

Carnitas Snack Shack

America’s largest balloon parade, the Holiday Bowl Parade, passes right by Carnitas Snack Shack Embarcadero on New Year’s Eve, so the restaurant will open early at 9 a.m. to offer a variety of special breakfast items created in celebration of the parade.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Locale Kitchen & Lounge at Viejas Resort and Casino

Locale Kitchen & Lounge offers traditional Thanksgiving feast with some fun twists for $25. Classic menu items such as turkey and mashed potatoes are on the menu along with spiced cranberry sauce, blue corn muffins and Mom’s deviled eggs. For those staying at the restort for the weekend, a ‘Day after Thanksgiving Sandwich’ is available Friday-Sunday.

Extraordinary Desserts

Both Extraordinary Desserts locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day serving their menu and guests can also arrange to pick up their pre-ordered desserts the week of Thanksgiving. Among other items, on the menu is a pumpkin cheesecake with a touch of cranberry, spices, and a buttery ginger cookie crust. It’s finished with spiced whipped cream, cranberries, and orange rose petals and sprinkled with 23 3/4 karat gold leaf.

Loews Coronado Resort

Thanksgiving dinner will be held in the Loews Coronado Resort’s Crown Landing from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Executive Chef Chris Aguirre has prepared a special Thanksgiving feast featuring modern twists on traditional fare, a dessert bar and all of the trimmings. $69 for adults and $19 for kids 12 and under.

Park Hyatt Aviara

Park Hyatt Aviara welcomes guests this Thanksgiving with three options for brunch and dinner. Vivace will serve a special four-course dinner from 5-9:30 p.m. Priced at $80 per person, the menu features a squash custard with whipped black pepper ricotta starter, followed by walnut tagliatelle, porcini rubbed turkey breast and an apple tart. Vivace will also offer regular a la carte dinner service from 5-8:30 p.m., as will Argyle Steakhouse. For those looking to celebrate earlier, Argyle and California Bistro will be serving a special holiday brunch buffet priced at $95 for adults and $35 for kids ages 3-12. The buffet will be available at Argyle from 10am-2pm and California Bistro from 11am-3 p.m. See below for complete buffet offerings, including seafood, hot and cold dishes, signature breakfast items, carving and omelet stations and pastries and other desserts.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9

San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival

Next week brings the 15th anniversary of the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival, which features more than 40 events held throughout the county. Each year, festival brings together San Diego’s top food professionals to help tell the city’s culinary story by showcasing the diversity of its farms, seas, sustainable practices, taco culture, Mexican influence and more. A full event schedule is available here.

Ilegal Mezcal’s Mezcal Pre-Shift

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On November 15 from 1-3 p.m. mezcal brand Ilegal Mezcal will be hosting an informational seminar at Coin Op North Park. Guests will be treated to a glass of “welcome punch” along with a meet and greet, tasting and Q&A session. $5 Ilegal cocktails will be sold throughout with $1 from each to be donated to Border Angels.

Food Tank is Coming to San Diego

Berry Good Food Foundation is partnering with Food Tank, University of California San Diego, and the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival for the inaugural San Diego Food Tank Summit on November 14 at the Alexandria at Torrey Pines. Founded in 2013, Food Tank is a nonprofit organization dedicated to exploring environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable ways of alleviating hunger, obesity, and poverty. ”Growing the Food Movement,” this year’s theme, will feature more than 30 different speakers from the food and agriculture fields on panels moderated by a variety of publications, including this one. Researchers, farmers, chefs, policymakers, government officials, and students will come together for interactive panels, fireside chats, and farmer spotlights. Click here to buy tickets.

SoNo Fest and Chili Cook-Off 2018

Andy McRory

This year’s SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off will take place on December 2 2018 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. at 32nd & Thorn in North Park. It will feature40 restaurants competing in a chili cook-off, beer/beverage garden with 22 local craft brewers, live music on two stages, holiday shopping with 30 local maker booths and kids fest with entertainment. This is an all volunteer event and all proceeds benefit local schools.

The Prisoner Wine Company Dinner at La Valencia

On December 13 La Valencia’s The Med will host an encore wine dinner for 2018 that will feature The Prisoner Wine Company. The Prisoner Wine Company’s eponymous first wine was inspired by the drinkable “mixed blacks” made by the Italian immigrants who originally settled in Napa Valley. Reservations are required and can be booked on La Valencia’s website: http://www.lavalencia.com/la-v-events.aspx. Tickets cost $125.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2

Chris Narvaez at Blade 1936

Blade 1936 has named Chris Narvaez as their new chef de cuisine. After working in the hospitality industry for over 10 years with experience at such restaurants as Michelin-starred Spruce in San Francisco, he will work with Chefs Mario Cassineri and John Carlo Ferraiuolo to oversee an modern pan-Italian menu.

Sean McCart at Mille Fleurs

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Sean McCart, who was previously at Mister A’s, Pueblo and Juniper & Ivy, has been appointed sous chef at Mille Fleurs, the Rancho Santa Fe staple owned by the same group as Mister A’s.

Chris Osborne at Mister A’s

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McCart’s departure from Mister A’s makes room for Chris Osborne to join as sous chef alongside Stephane Voitzwinkler. Osborne was previously at Biga and Cowboy Star and is known for his creative riffs on classic dishes.

Vincent Savignano at Estancia La Jolla

In August, Vincent Savignano was named executive chef at Estancia La Jolla. He brings 25 years in the hospitality industry working in six states including Arizona, South Carolina, Washington and more. He returned to San Diego to head Estancia’s culinary team.

Elliott Townsend at Cowboy Star

Earlier this year East Village steakhouse Cowboy Star announced Elliott Townsend as its new executive chef. Townsend has previously cooked at North Park’s Tamarindo as well as Little Italy’s Juniper & Ivy.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2I am a Filipino

On November 14 there will be a book signing and tasting dinners with Nicole Ponseca and Miguel Trinidad of restaurants Jeepney and Maharlika in New York. They are also the authors of the new book “I am a Filipino - and This is How We Cook.” $100 will get the guest an exclusive meet and greet dinner with the two authors and restaurateurs along with a sprawling Filipino meal cooked by eight local San Diego chefs. Buy tickets here.

Rising Star Dinner at Bivouac

Bivouac Ciderworks’ DJ Tangalin is hosting the next iteration of his Rising Star Dinner Series on October 29. Tickets are $65 per person and include a paired dinner cooked by Loren Waite of Wrench & Rodent and Spencer Dahlman of Garden Kitchen, both mentored by Jack Monaco.

Japanese Cuisine Dinner at Azuki Sushi

On November 13 Azuki Sushi will be hosting a dinner highlighting local chefs, including Andrew Spurgin, who runs a boutique catering company and is also the co-founder of Passion Fish. Each chef’s take on Japanese dishes and cuisine will be. the focus.

Trust Restaurant to Recreate James Beard Dinner

On Tuesday, November 13 from 7-9 p.m., Brad Wise of Trust Restaurant will recreate the dinner the Trust team recently served to a sold-out dining room at the legendary James Beard House in New York City. Their “Sunny San Diego” dinner, priced at $160 per person including tax and gratuity, will showcase the best of the region’s famous produce and other products as well as Baja influences. Tickets are available here.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12

The Wild Thyme Table Opens Downtown

Fast casual concept The Wild Thyme table has opened in the space that formerly held Waters Fine Food near the Santa Fe train station. Owned by Dawn Tangeman-Carvajal, who says of her new project, which she claims will serve “straightforward food,” “I want to clarify—straightforward doesn’t mean boring! It’s better characterized as natural, bright ingredients that stand out on their own but fully shine altogether.”

Dia de los Muertos at Firehouse

Jackie Bryant

Elexia de la Parra of North Park boutique Artelexia will be holding a special dinner at Firehouse for Dia de los Muertos. Tickets are $75 and include a four-course dinner with cocktail pairings.

Namaste on the Bay and Brunch at Coasterra

On October 21, Coasterra will hold its final Namaste on the Bay yoga class of the season. Afterwards, guests can check out the chef’s new brunch menu, which includes items such as carnitas chilaquiles, vegan hash tacos, barbacoa short rib hash and tres leches french toast, among others. Coasterra will now be opening its doors at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays and offering brunch until 2:00 p.m. with continued lunch service until 2:30 p.m. Coasterra’s debut a la carte brunch menu may be found online here and yoga begins at 10 a.m.

Kennedy’s Re-Brands in Escondido

Kennedy’s Meat Company—formerly Kennedy’s Karne—has opened a new location with a new face in Escondido. Now housed at 1766 E. Valley Parkway, the 5,000-square-foot butcher shop features high-quality meats and adds a restaurant, market and an extensive food prep area that allows them to do catering. Hours of the new store are Mondays through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Additional locations include Imperial Beach and El Centro.

Juniper & Ivy’s Autumn Culinary Showcase

Sam Wells

Juniper and Ivy recently announced their Autumn Culinary Showcase. The communal dinner will be held on October 28 at 6:30 p.m. The five-course dinner is intended to display the kitchen’s acumen while highlighting the season’s bounty and will include wine pairings curated from the restaurant’s staff. Tickets are now on sale for $225. To reserve a spot, guests can email cdoak@juniperandivy.com

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5

Wasted: A Celebration of Sustainable Food

On October 14 from 2-6 p.m. in Liberty Station thirty local and national celebrity chefs and mixologists will be competing to prepare winning dishes and cocktails using food that would otherwise be discarded. The event, which is sponsored by Chef Works, will benefit the charity Kitchens for Good. VIP has sold out, though there are still $90 general admission tickets left. Limited tickets will also be available at the door for $110.

Puesto Gets a New Pastry Chef

James Tran

Puesto welcomes Los Angeles native Erik Aronow as its new executive pastry chef. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate, Aronow most recently worked as executive sous chef at Culver City’s Destroyer. He has also spent time at Bouchon Bistro, Red Medicine, Republique and Ink. While he’ll be based in San Diego, he will travel to all Puesto locations throughout California to create each menu. Puesto’s sixth location opens next month in Northern California, in Concord.

Salt & Straw Debuts Spooktacular Series

On October 5 Salt & Straw ice cream debuts their October Spooktacular series to celebrate the Halloween season. The series features flavors including Mummy’s Pumpkin Spiced Potion, The Great Candycopia, Dracula’s Blood Pudding, Essence of Ghost and Creepy Crawly Critters. The special flavors will be available the Little Italy scoop shop through the end of October with pints available to pick up in shop or for delivery through Postmates.

Nishiki Ramen’s Third Anniversary Celebration

Nishiki Ramen is having its 3 year anniversary event on October 20 and October 21. They will be offering customers 100 bowls of “Gold” Nishiki Ramen, which contains a 24K gold leaf covered egg at no additional cost. This special “Gold” ramen will be available while ordering the Nishiki Ramen and winning a raffle on October 20, 2018. The restaurant will also offer customers a 50% off discount for the Nishiki Ramen, their signature tonkotsu ramen, on October 21.

Palette X

A new pop-up dinner series Palette X, will occur for the first time on October 22 at Solare Ristorante in Liberty Station from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. There will be pop-up dinners in restaurants and venues around San Diego 4 to 6 times monthly. The first theme is “elemental,” which blends artists and cooking from chef Nickie Bethel based on the five Chinese elements: water, metal, earth, wood and fire. More information can be found here.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Rombauer Dinner at Four Seasons Aviara Residence Club

Family-owned Napa Valley winery Rombauer is heading south for a winemaker’s dinner at Four Seasons Aviara Residence Club’s Seasons Restaurant on Thursday, October 11. The event will begin with a reception on the veranda followed by a four-course dinner in the private dining room. The dinner is $179 per person and can be reserved by calling (760) 814-8677.

La Mesa Oktoberfest

San Diego County’s largest Oktoberfest, La Mesa Oktoberfest, is just around the corner. This year will be its 45th year and 100,000 are set to come celebrate the weekend of September 28-30. This year the festilval will have over 50 food vendors, two beer gardens with VIP passes, kids “karneval” with a Ferris wheel, German Gluckluck games (games of strength like stein holding and keg rolling), bratwurst eating contests, traditional polka music, and more. New this year is their Dachshund Village, which is specifically made for dog-friendly families with Dachshund races, dog fashion shows, yodeling & howling contests and more.

Piemonte Wine Dinner at Maestoso

Hillcrest’s Maestoso will host a four course prix fixe wine dinner inspired by the flavors of Northern Italy’s Piemonte region the evening of Wednesday, October 3. The menu will be available to guests visiting at any time between 5 and 10 p.m. at $59 per person and will be paired with wines from Batasiolo Wines.

San Diego Festival of Beer

Hosted by San Diego Professionals Against Cancer, San Diego Festival of Beer will feature at least 50 breweries pouring 120 varieties of craft beer on September 22 beginning at 1 p.m. or 12 p.m. for early entry. Breweries from San Diego and beyond will be joining, including Belching Beaver, Boochcraft, and Absolution Brewing Company. The annual fundraiser takes place on the Broadway Pier, where, in addition to beer, ticket holders will enjoy waterfront views, upbeat music from three different DJ booths, and grub for purchase. Pair an IPA with a a hotdog from Doggos Gus or a lager with Stay Cheesy Food Truck’s gourmet grilled cheeses. The festival in its 24 years has donated more than $688,000 to San Diego cancer-fighting nonprofits, including Rady’s Children Hospital, Cancer Angels, and The Seany Foundation. Check out the complete contribution list here and purchase tickets here: www.sdbeerfest2018.ticketderby.com

Grgich Hills Wine Dinner at The Med

The Med’s Wine Dinner Series will be hosting a five course tasting menu dinner in concert with Grgich Hills on October 14. Dinners are $125 per person. Reservations are required and can be made at LaValencia.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Need to caffeinate? Here are five new coffee shops around San Diego.

Portal Coffee

Little Italy plays home to yet another new coffee spot, Portal Coffee, which opened about two months ago. Homemade syrups and a nice outdoor patio accompany a menu of to-go food.

Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company

Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company just opened on Prospect Street in La Jolla with a. full suite of iced and hot coffee and espresso drinks. The real treat comes from its back patio, which opens up to a rooftop ocean view.

Ultreya Coffee and Tea

College Area has a sleek, new coffee shop called Ultreya, at the corner of College Avenue and El Cajon Boulevard. Air plants and a stark white interior provide an airy space filled with tables, high tables and ample seating for working students and staff.

Tumbleweed Coffee

University Avenue near the 15 is where coffee drinkers can find Tumbleweed Coffee, a cute coffee stand with two stools and a tiny counter.

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters

The latest Dark Horse outpost just opened in La Mesa, where it serves its usual suite of selected pastries alongside hot and cold drinks.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Nopalito Farm Wet Hop Harvest & Sunday Asado

The folks behind Point Loma’s Royale are hosting a Wet Hop Harvest event next month at their Nopalito Farm, a certified organic, 15-acre family owned & operated homestead in Valley Center. Channeling the essence of an Argentinian asado, this ticketed open-flame party will showcase specialty beer collaborations from the best of San Diego’s local breweries, wood-fired dishes from Miho Catering, specialty cocktails in partnership with Old Harbor Distilling Co., live bluegrass music, and more. Buy tickets here.

Searsucker Cans & Jams with Boulevard Brewing

Every third Saturday of the month, Searsucker San Diego partners with local brewers from around San Diego for a special event. This month, Boulevard Brewing Company will be providing beer with $1 per can sold donated to Father Joe’s Villages for their local efforts in eliminating homelessness. Searsucker will also be serving an “Old Fashioned Happy Hour Menu” of cocktails and bites, ike duck fat fries alongside live music. More information can be found here.

Tarot Reading & Sipping Wine Seminar at The Rose

South Park’s The Rose Wine Bar will be hosting Brandon Alter of The Spiritual Gayz for a three week seminar on the art of Tarot Reading + Sipping Wine. The Course will be held Tuesdays September 25th, October 2nd and October 9th from 7 - 10 PM and will include a themed wine flight and light bites. Each student will receive a copy of Kim Krans’ The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, as well. The seminar will be capped at 16 attendees and each student will receive two mini readings from Brandon. Purchase tickets here.

FRIDAY, MAY 4

Disco de Mayo

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Volcano Rabbit hosting a Disco de Mayo celebration on Saturday, May 5. Starting at noon, a DJ set will accompany a $20 all-you-can-eat brunch buffet with $20 bottomless mimosas and bloody marys. DJ sets from Erick Diaz, Gabe Vega and Adam Salter begin at 2 p.m. and Boys Don’t Disco, Hood Politics and Camron start at 6 p.m.

Rancho Bernardo Inn

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Rancho Bernardo Inn’s flagship restaurant, Avant, will be offering a Double Barrel Margarita made with Avant’s exclusive double barrel reposado tequila by Herradura. Guests can also enjoy a house margarita at Veranda Fireside Lounge & Restaurant and at the Spa at Rancho Bernardo Inn, frozen watermelon basil margaritas with lemon citrus churros will be sold all day long.

Hundred Proof Cinco de Mayo Collaboration Brunch

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At Hundred Proof in Hillcrest, Azunia Tequila will be hosting a collaboration brunch at the bar and restaurant. Bar manager Juan Sanchez and his cocktail crew will be mixing up $8 specialty cocktails, tequila flights and food specials from 10am-3pm on May 5.

Blind Burro

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The Blind Burro in East Village will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with their Cinco de Burro on May 5th from 11 a.m.-close. On offer will be food specials like a tinga gordita sliders and drink specials from Herradura Tequila including $9 margaritas and $8 shots. There will also be live music from 3:00-7:30 p.m. featuring modern Mariachi group “Los Juevos Blancos.” There will also be raffles and giveaways throughout the day.

Del Sur Mexican Cantina

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Head to South Park for a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Del Sur Mexican Cantina. Throughout the afternoon and evening, a live DJ will be spinning for anyone hoping to dance the holiday away. Drink specials include $6 house margaritas, $6 red or white sangrias, $7 mules and palomas and $4 select Mexican draft beers.

FRIDAY, APRIL 27

Rhythm & Brews

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The San Diego Brewers Guild’s 7th annual Rhythm & Brews Craft Beer and Music Festival will take place on May 5. Originally launched by Mother Earth Brewing Co., the festival takes place in Vista and features 60 breweries alongside live performances by L.A. Edwards and Trouble In The Wind. More information can be found on the website or via a mobile app.

Chef-Driven Bake Sale

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A variety of San Diego’s pastry chefs and bakers will showcase signature baked goods at the Friendly Feast Chef-Driven Bake Sale on May 6. General admission is $10 and all baked goods are $5 each—there’s a limited quantity, so those who want the best selection should choose the Golden Ticket or Early Bird Special, both of which include early entry, a bottle of Domaine Santé wine grape nectar, and a welcome beverage (while supplies last). Kids under 12 are offered free admission. Event proceeds benefit Friendly Feast and Monarch School San Diego, a public K-12 school in Barrio Logan whose mission is to educate students impacted by homelessness.

Volcano Rabbit/Casamigos Tequila Class

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Learn to mix cocktails with the best of ‘em at an interactive cocktail class at Volcano Rabbit on May 2. Casamigos master mixologist, Kristin Clark, will lead a guided tasting experience and will teach attendees how to make three cocktails. Tickets are $25 plus fees and include a lecture, three cocktails, a Casamigos mezcal tasting and surprise Casamigos swag.

Taste of the Derby: The Official Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby Party

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Head to Fifth and Rose, the Pendry’s cocktail bar, for a May 5 Kentucky Derby viewing party from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cocktails will be mixed with Woodford Reserve, the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, along with classic Southern-inspired bites. Special menu highlights include Southern bellinis with macerated cherries and caviar, cheddar polenta cakes with grilled tiger shrimp, okra and tomato jam, pimento cheese and grilled focaccia, Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps and more. Races for viewing begin at 10:13 a.m. and last throughout the afternoon.

Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara/Chateau Montelena Wine Dinner

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On May 30, Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara will host a five-course dinner paired with Chateau Montelena wines. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a reception on the terrace followed by dinner at 6 p.m. in Seasons’ Private Dining Room. Menu highlights include, yellowfin tuna carpaccio with stone fruit, avocado and watercress paired with a 2016 Riesling and grilled lamb chops with braised cherries, tarragon peas and Islay scotch paired with a2015 Zinfandel. The wine dinner is $150 per person and seating is limited to 30 guests. Reservations can be made by calling 760-814-8677.

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

Tim Kolanko and A.R. Valentien

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The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ fine dining restaurant, A.R. Valentien, will be featuring Tim Kolanko as the next guest chef in its Artisan Table Guest Chef series. The dinner will take place on May 3 and will refer to Kolanko’s recent travels to India, Malaysia and Thailand. On the menu is pani puri, a popular street food that Kolanko enjoyed in India; baked red snapper, a twist on a Goan Fish head curry considered to be among the best in Malaysia; and Thai grilled prawns. The evening will conclude with savory India street chai and assorted sweets, both of which served as comfort food for Kolanko while he was abroad.

An’s Dry Cleaning and Nomad Donuts Pop-Up

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On April 22, yet-to-be-opened gelato spot An’s Dry Cleaning will pop-up at Nomad Donuts’ North Park location for a donut/gelato pairing from 8 a.m. until they run out. This is the first time An’s gelato will be available to the public and on offer will be the following, among others: strawberry basil crueller cup with honey goat cheese gelato, churro Mexican hot chocolate crueller cup with horchata gelato and lavender crueller cup with dulce de leche gelato.

Eppig Brewing Grand Opening Celebration

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Eppig Brewing is holding an opening celebration for its newly constructed beer garden on April 21. Beer and waterfront yoga will be happening from 10-11 a.m. and the formal party will kick off at noon. $5 pints of Eppig’s Grand Opening IPA will be served, guests will receive a 15% discount off of all merch and new beer releases will be on hand.

The Marine Room’s High Tide Dinners

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The Marine Room welcomes back their signature High Tide dinners with the first on April 26 and 27, running on various dates through October. High tides typically range between 4 and 5 feet above sea level, so the predicted 6- to over 7-foot high tides during these special evenings will make dining at The Marine Room a memorable experience as the waves crash against the dining room’s windows. Guests will enjoy a seasonal menu with à la carte choices.

Eat. Drink. Read

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This year’s “Eat. Drink. Read. A Culinary Event for Literacy” will take place at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park on May 17 from 6 – 8:30 p.m. Now in its ninth year, the San Diego Council on Literacy’s (SDCOL) signature fundraising event will feature more than 20 of the city’s finest chefs cooking for a good cause. This year’s participants include Civico 1845, Waypoint Public, Galaxy Taco and many more. The event will raise money for SDCOL’s 27 affiliated literacy programs that help approximately 179,000 residents of all ages in San Diego.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6

Five Spots in North Park

North Park has seen a variety of concepts open in the last few months—here are five to try this weekend.

Shank & Bone

Yelp

Shank & Bone brings classic Vietnamese dishes, like pho and spring rolls, to University Avenue. It also has more modern twists to its menu, like a “Surf & Turf” pho with lobster and filet mignon.

Working Class

Yelp

In the old Ritual space is Working Class, which bills itself as a diner and bar. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. most days, Working Class serves dishes like chicken pot pie, burgers and fish and chips with a long beer list, a short wine list and a large outdoor patio.

Bivouac Ciderworks

Yelp

Opened in January is Bivouac Ciderworks, which serves a full menu from chef DJ Tangalin alongside its housemade ciders. It’s spiffy tap room is an indoor tribute to the great outdoors, decked out in wood, communal seating and adorned with a wall that is covered in rope knots while another twinkles like the night sky.

The Taco Stand

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Yelp

The latest iteration of The Taco Stand recently opened in the old Tacos Perla space. Serving Tijuana-style tacos and more American-style burritos, it’s outfitted to look like a classic taco stand south of the border.

The Friendly

Yelp

Opening with a bang is The Friendly, a popular casual restaurant reminiscent of a diner or New York-style slice joint. The inexpensive menu features by-the-slice pizza and the Dirty Flat Top Burger, which is two griddled patties with cheese on a toasted bun and slathered in what they’re calling aioli, but is mostly a nice heaping of mayo. It’s greasy and perfect.

FRIDAY, MARCH 30

JRDN

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JRDN Restaurant at Tower23 in Pacific Beach just released a new brunch menu. On the menu is parmesan crusted croque madame with thick cut brioche, ham, gruyere cheese, two fried eggs, mostarda, mornay sauce and choice of breakfast potatoes or fruit and berry french toast with thick cut brioche, local berries, sweet ricotta, lemon curd, powdered sugar, and maple syrup.

Rustic Root

Rustic Root has released its new spring food and drink menus. Selections include teriyaki salmon poke with shallot, house-made teriyaki, green onion, avocado and taro chip and lamb ribs, with a balsamic glaze, cucumber yogurt and fresno chili. New drinks include the Anti-Basic with Buffalo Trace, lemon, lavender simple syrup, fresh ginger and prosecco and the Spring Break with Lillet blanc, combier apricot, sherry and fresh berry.

Tidal

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Tidal recently unveiled new seasonal brunch, lunch and dinner menus created by Chef Andrew Reyes. The brunch menu features dishes like acai and granola bowl or an egg foo yung shrimp omelet with Chinese sausage, shisito peppers, scallions, water chestnuts, shiitake gravy, waffled furikake, rice cake and bonito flakes. The dinner menu has selections like the new wagyu burger with American Kobe-style ground beef, brioche bun, Vermont white cheddar bibb lettuce, heirloom tomato, sweet maui onion and hand cut french fries.

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

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Snooze has a new spring menu with a variety of new choices, including the Spring Harvest Benny made with cheesy quinoa cakes topped with two poached cage-free eggs, smoked cheddar hollandaise and everything spice, dressed with fresh watercress, zucchini and heirloom cherry tomatoes in a Dijon citronette. Also on offer is the Spring Has Sprung Frittata made with cage-free egg whites filled with a fresh asparagus and mushroom salad, sliced zucchini and house-made pistou and topped with arugula, heirloom cherry tomatoes, Dijon citronette and grated parmesan.

Bagby Beer Company

Yelp

Bagby Beer Company in Oceanside recently debuted a new plant-based menu. Choices include Sriracha Corn Dogs made with spicy cornmeal batter and vegan hot dogs served with house made mustard and smoked tomato-bourbon ketchup; and the Anything’s Possible Burger featuring the Impossible Foods patty, topped with shredded romaine, house pickle, red onion, Chef Robert’s Awesome sauce, and vegan American cheese on a whole wheat bun.

FRIDAY, MARCH 23

Breakfast Republic

Lyudmila Zotova

Breakfast Republic is ready for Easter Sunday with food and drink specials that will be honored for the entire month of April. Easter brunchers can be treated to the Peep Show Mocha with espresso, milk, marshmallow syrup, mocha, whipped cream and Peep garnish. Also enjoy the Sunrise Service Mimosa with prosecco, raspberry syrup, fresh-squeezed orange juice and an orange slice garnish.

The Lafayette Hotel

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Easter brunch will take place at The Conservatory at The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows on April 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature a varied menu, live music, a photo booth and complimentary face painting for the kids. On the menu is a chilled seafood bar, brioche french toast, Belgian waffles, spinach and Irish cheddar frittata, lobster ravioli with black truffle cream, Pacific wild-caught salmon with saffron assorted pies and desserts, salads, carving stations and more.

Curadero

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Try a Mexican feast this Easter at Curadero in the Gaslamp. Brunch-goers can start with breakfast tacos, ahi al pastor with grilled pineapple, pickled onions, cilantro, lime and chicharrones, or birria de res. For lunch and dinner, sample a ceviche trio from the crudo bar, or one of the heartier plates, like carne asada with chiles toreados, nopal asado, green onion, avocado silk and house-made tortillas.

Mille Fleurs

Mille Fleurs

Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe will be offering a three-course Easter prix fixe brunch menu from 11:00 a.m - 1:30 p.m. for $59.50. The a la carte dinner menu will be available starting at 4:30 p.m. Some featured dishes include mussel bisque with saffron, turkey breast coconut schnitzel, four mushroom ravioli and bacon-wrapped norwegian cod. The full menu can be viewed here.

Bleu Boheme

Bleu Boheme is hosting a three-course feast with selections including: salade de betteraves, fresh gold and red beets, sesame chevre chaude, rocket greens, toasted hazelnuts and shallot dressing; foie gras au torchon; saumon “royal;” quiche maison; eggs Benedict, made with either crab cakes or Canadian bacon on a Wolferman’s English muffin; lapin au moutarde, rabbit with braised radishes, fava beans, fingerling potatoes and mustard jus; and more. Dessert options include: profiteroles, choux pastry puffs filled with vanilla ice cream and dark chocolate sauce; crêpe au Nutella; and more. Special cocktails include: Boire la Poire martini with Boulard Calvados, pear liqueur, simple syrup and fresh lemon and orange juices for $12.

FRIDAY, MARCH 16

St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail Cart at THE US GRANT

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The US Grant will be lit up with green exterior lights in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. The lobby cocktail cart will feature St. Patrick’s Day-inspired whiskey cocktails throughout the weekend. One, in particular, will be a Vieux Carré with Jameson Cooper’s Croze Irish whiskey, Remy 1738 cognac, Carpano Antica Benedictine, Peychaud’s and angostura bitters for $19.10.

Union Kitchen & Tap

Union Kitchen & Tap Encinitas will be serving brunch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with corned beef hash prepared with house-cured brisket, breakfast potatoes, peppers, caramelized onions and two eggs any style and a special brunch cocktail crafted for the occasion, the Morning Joe, infused with whiskey, Nola coffee liqueur, cold brew and Branca Mentha whipped cream. A special St. Patrick’s Day dinner will also be available from 4 p.m. to close, featuring Shepherd’s Pie, corned beef and Bangers & Mash.

El Chingon

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El Chingon is shaking up the traditional margarita with an Irish twist with the Irishman Abroad. The cocktail, priced at $12, is made with Tullamore D.E.W., El Jimador tequila, fresh lime juice, Cointreau and R&D House Bitters. El Chingon will also participate in San Diego ShamROCK as a VIP location, offering Bud Light pints for $4 each.

Woodstock’s Pizza

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Woodstock’s Pizza near SDSU and Pacific Beach is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a Bangers & Tots pizza, a cheesy pie loaded with nitrate-free sausage and whole tater tots for a different kind of St. Paddy’s Day meal.

Prohibition

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Prohibition will offer a handcrafted cocktail made with two of Ireland’s most famous ingredients: Jameson and Guinness. The Irish 2-for-1 is made with Jameson Black Barrel, Guinness Demerara reduction, R&D Bitters Aromatic #7 and R&D Bitters Cherry Apple, priced at $13.

Albie’s Beef Inn Comeback Dinner

Yelp

Lot 8 and Eco Caters are partnering with former Albie’s Beef Inn owner Ted Samouris to bring back the old steakhouse for one night only pop-up dinner on April 20, with three seatings at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Dinner costs $75 and includes a wedge salad, prime rib, twice baked potato with “sugar sweet” carrots and bread pudding with rum sauce. Tickets do not include alcohol, which will be served at a cash bar onsite, which will be open to revelers until midnight. $15 tickets are also available for those who just want to come, hang out and enjoy the cash bar.

Kettner Exchange Mexican Sprits Dinner

Yelp

Kettner Exchange is welcoming the Mexico in a Bottle festival to San Diego with a special dinner. On March 8th, Chef Brian Redzikowski will pair a five-course dinner with unique spirits from south of the border. The adventure, curated by local Agave Expert and Certified Catador, Chris Simmons of Sipping Life, will guide guests through selections of raicilla, sotol, mezcal and bacanora. Tickets cost $95 exclusive of tax and gratuity and are non-refundable.

Juniper & Ivy Family Meal

Jim Sullivan

Juniper & Ivy is debuting its new dinner series, called Family Meal, beginning March 2nd. Inspired by omakase-style dining, Family Meal is intended to showcase creativity through a family-style (versus à la carte) tasting menu of four to six courses served in a larger than typical format at the Little Italy restaurant. The meal is available Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday nights for parties of six or more and will cost $150, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Wine pairings are available for an extra price. No special reservations are required.

Bankers Hill Art & Craft Beer Festival

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The Bankers Hill Art & Craft Beer Festival in partnership with theSan Diego Brewers Guild will return March 23 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Taking place throughout the two levels of The Abbey on Fifth Avenue the 21+ event will showcase a range of San Diego breweries and Bankers Hill restaurants alongside pop-up galleries of local artists’ works. Tickets are $30 per person.

Herringbone La Jolla Ales & Acoustics

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Herringbone La Jolla’s is hosting another Ales & Acoustics event this Saturday, March 3 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. featuring Saint Archer Brewing Company. The tunes will be provided by David Shyde and Cedrice and the featured brews include Saint Archer’s Pale Ale, Mosaic Double IPA, Blackberry Gose and the Hoppy Pilsner.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Cala Cala x Vino Carta

Little Italy wine shop Vino Carta is hosting a collaboration dinner with Ryan Costanza of Dija Mara in Oceanside and his collaborator, Matt Bone, who have plans to open a natural wine bar under the name Cala Cala (hence the name). There will be two seatings on February 25, at six and eight o’clock, where five courses with five wine pairings will be served. Tickets are $60.

Cucina Sorella’s pasta making classes

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The Kensington Italian restaurant is hosting its next pasta class on February 25th. It costs $81.60, inclusive of service and tax, and lasts 2.5 hours—during which students will make pasta from scratch and take home the haul along with a recipe to use at home. Guests will also receive lunch and a glass of wine during the class.

InTents Flavors Celebration

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InTents Flavors Celebration will take place on February 26, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will team-up chefs and farmers at tasting stations to serve guests farm-fresh dishes, beer, wine and spirits. On the roster is Davin Waite of Wrench & Rodent Sebasstropub and The Plot, Accursio Lota of Solare, Christina Ng of Chinita’s Pies and Spur Valley Ranch, Tae Dickey of Biga, Steve Brown, Danilo Tangalin of Bivouac Ciderworks and more. Farms include with JR Organics, Cyclops Farms, African Sisters Farm, Da Le Ranch. Tickets are $95 and a portion of the proceeds will go to Kitchens for Good, a San Diego local nonprofit that trains the underemployed for culinary careers and breaks the cycle of food waste and uses it to feed the hungry.

Alice Waters at the Chino Farm

Yelp

Alice Waters is coming to Rancho Santa Fe’s Chino Farm to discuss her new memoir Coming to my Senses: The Makings of a Counterculture Cook. The event will take place on February 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Carruth Cellars 8th Annual Barrel Tasting

Yelp

On February 24 and 25 Carruth Cellars’ Solana Beach location will be holding its eighth annual cellar tasting where guests can taste directly from the barrel and then place order for wine futures once bottling commences. Tickets can be purchased here.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Pappy Van Winkle Dinner

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Rustic Root is hosting a special dinner on March 1st. It includes four-course menu with pairings from rare bourbon Pappy Van Winkle and costs $300 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Pappy is a known cult favorite in the spirits world, so expect this event to sell out. Guests are asked to call (619) 232-1747.

Small Business panel at HIVE San Diego

Join The City of San Diego’s Small Business Advisory Board (SBAB) on Friday, February 16 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at HIVE San Diego in Kearny Mesa for a conversation with community leaders on strategies for achieving success in our local food and beverage industry. Participating in the discussion will be City of San Diego Councilmember Chris Cate (District 6) and Snake Oil Cocktail Company as well as representatives from the California Restaurant Association, the Food & Beverage Association of San Diego ad the San Diego Brewers Guild.

Muggles and Magic at Mezé Greek Fusion

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Mezé Greek Fusion in the Gaslamp will test Harry Potter fans’ knowledge with its ‘Muggles and Magic’ trivia night at 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 23. Harry Potter-themed food and drinks will be available to order, too. Registration is priced at $15 per person, and all proceeds will benefit Friends of Scott Foundation’s Unforgettable Prom, an annual event for children with cancer. Tickets and more information are available online at www.mugglesandmagic.com. Costumes are encouraged!

Lost Cause Meadery Grand Opening

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Lost Cause Meadery is hosting its grand opening soiree on February 24th. The party starts at noon and they will have new meads on tap, some limited bottle releases for sale, and raffles throughout the day.

Mondays Don’t Suckling

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Monday Blues? Not at Campfire. The Carlsbad restaurant just launched “Mondays Don’t Suckling,” a weekly series during which they’ll be brining and roasting a whole suckling pig, snout to tail. The serving style will vary each week with the only constant being that the dish nod to warm weather and tropical vibes. Special drinks along the same lines (tropical, not pork) will also be offered. Starting now, the event will be every Monday from 5:00 p.m. until they run out.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2ND

InVita

InVita is an Italian-style cafe that just opened in the CommonGrounds Workspace in Carlsbad, which recently celebrated its 1-year anniversary. On the menu are pastries, paninis, salads and coffee drinks.

The Friendly

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New pizza has arrived in North Park. Decked out with a checkered floor, a dining counter with stools and other classic diner decor, the The Friendly serves a variety of pizzas alongside burgers and other sandwiches. On Friday, February 2, the restaurant is hosting a pork collaboration special with Hanis Cavin of Carnitas Snack Shack.

Mostra Coffee

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Well-loved local coffee company Mostra Coffee has opened its long-awaited brick-and-mortar retail location just off the 15 in Carmel Mountain Ranch, near Poway. Head Roaster and co-founder Mike Arquines is also known for his past stint at The Cork & Craft, his countless beer collaborations and his efforts with The Lab, a high-end private dining service. Mostra, in particular, is known for its high-quality beans sourced from all over the globe, including an upcoming selection from the Philippines.

Sushi Nekosan

Candice Woo

Wall Street in La Jolla is home to new sushi spot Sushi Nekosan. The menu spans hot and cold appetizers, poke bowls, sushi, nigiri, and traditional, vegan and special rolls.

Tacos El Cabron

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Within the last few months, cheekily-named Tacos El Cabron opened on 4th Avenue in the Gaslamp serving classic street tacos and burritos, like carne asada and adobada, in homemade corn tortillas.