The Local Pacific Beach Now Open and Ready for Business

June 21, 2014

The Local Pacific Beach has now opened in the two story standalone restaurant at 809 Thomas Street that Nick's at the Beach had occupied for 18 years before closing last December. The sign may not be up, the downstairs' patio may not be complete and all the interior decorations are still being finalized, but The Local PB is pouring drinks and feeding hungry beachgoers. The Local Group's newest venue is a duel concept, with the bottom level a more laid back, casual eatery and the upstairs level and patio catering to a more tavern-esque scene. We've got our hands on the full menu and photos of the interior and are excited for new blood in the PB hood.

History Happy Hours Are Back At San Diego History Center | Relive the Wild Days of the Stingaree District Beginning June 27

June 21, 2014

The San Diego History Center is kicking off its popular series, History Happy Hours, beginning June 27 from 5:30-7:30pm at the History Center in Balboa Park. The seasonal series showcases various topics related to San Diego’s past that correspond with the History Center’s featured exhibitions. This month’s happy hour is titled Sins of the Stingaree, where guests will be able to immerse themselves in the exhibition Sin Diego: The Stingaree’s Transformation from Vice to Nice in a fun and festive park-after-dark event featuring craft beer, cocktails, light bites from MiHo Gastrotruck and more!

SMARTS Farm to Host Community and Family-Focused Open House Event in East Village | Saturday, June 28

June 20, 2014

Humane Smarts welcomes the community to thriving SMARTS Farm for free gardening activities, art projects and outdoor fun. The SMARTS Farm Open House will take place at SMARTS Farm, located at the corner of F Street and 15th Street in Makers Quarter of San Diego’s East Village, on Saturday, June 28 from 9:3 am to 1pm.

Save on Passes and Win 2 Tickets to the 4th Annual San Diego Brew Fest | Taking Over Liberty Station on Saturday, July 12

June 20, 2014

Hey beer lovers! The 4th Annual San Diego Brew Fest returns to Liberty Station's NTC Plaza on Saturday, July 12, from 2-6pm (3-6pm for GA).  Following last year's sold out event, this year's Brew Fest will offer attendees an opportunity to sample offerings from countless local and international breweries, with numerous food truck options, all while rocking out to live music. San Diego is the craft beer capital of the United States, so what better way to celebrate summer than with unlimited beer tastings? In addition to giving you all the juicy details on the event, we're also offering a special savings on tickets and a chance to win 2 General Admission passes (an $80 value) - just enter below and we'll contact the winner by July 10!

Enter for a chance to win 2 passes to the San Diego Brew Fest on Saturday, July 12!

Coronado Brewing Company Teams with barleymash for Unique Beer Pairing Dinner | Monday, June 30

June 20, 2014

Join barleymash on Monday, June 30 for special chef’s dinner and tap takeover with Coronado Brewing Company from 6:30 to 9:30pm. For $45 a person, enjoy the creative six course menu from barleymash Executive Chef Kevin Templeton. Coronado Brewing Company’s Head Brewer and Co-Founder Shawn Dewitt will be on hand to speak about beers and the latest happenings at the brewery.

From Cocktails to Cold-Pressed | Lindsay Nader Announced as Operating Partner of 'Juice' - the New Cold-Pressed Juicery by CH Projects

June 19, 2014

In April, CH Projects' (Ironside Fish & Oyster, Craft & Commerce, Rare Form, Neighborhood, UnderBelly, Noble Experiment, El Dorado, Polite Provisions and Soda & Swine) co-founders, Arsalun Tafazoli & Nathan Stanton, announced plans for a new healthful element of their social & culinary collective — an organic, cold-pressed juice bar, properly dubbed “JUICE”.  Now, nearing the final stages of construction in the heart of East Village, with an anticipated launch date set for mid-July, CH is proud to officially announce a partnership with Lindsay Nader, one of the nation’s shining stars within the spirits and beverage industry. A bartender, cocktail writer (Food & Wine, Los Angeles Magazine) and former brand ambassador for Remy Cointreau and Absolute Vodka, this triple threat has racked up an impressive roster of experience at some of the nation’s most respected bars and restaurants including PDT in NYC, Animal, Harvard & Stone, Sone of a Gun and Pour Vous in LA.

A Gathering of Food and Fashion Trucks | The Headquarters Debuts 'Urban Mobile Market' Every Friday Beginning June 20 Through August

June 19, 2014 

Food, fashion and fun are rolling into The Headquarters every Friday this summer with the “Urban Mobile Market” bringing some of the area’s top food, fashion and entertainment to this popular seaside destination.  The Urban Mobile Market will be located on North Harbor Drive in front of The Headquarters and will be open from 11am to 2pm and 4-7pm so foodies and fashionistas can discover the latest from top trending chefs and designers along with live music during lunchtime or to kick off the weekend.

Detox & Retox: Launch of Dive Detox at Harrah's SoCal

June 19, 2014

A long weekend of partying calls for one thing: detox. Starting this Sunday, Harrah's SoCal will be your hangover cure with the launch of Dive Detox. After a weekend spent raging at Neon Nights at Dive and Dive Day Club, Dive Detox brings poolside yoga, massage chairs and a detoxifying menu of antioxidant eats and green drinks to guests at Harrah's SoCal. The new initiative offers a much-needed reprieve from the loud beats and bright lights of the weekend. However, we all know the best way to beat a hangover is to join it; the Dive Detox menu also offers antioxidant cocktails, such as the DillTox and Garden Ginocide.

Rancho Valencia Hosts Napa Vintner Series Launch | The Diversity of Napa Valley

June 19, 2014

On Friday, June 27 from 7-9 p.m., Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa will be hosting the launch of their first Napa Vintner Series event, The Diversity of Napa Valley, with Napa Valley Vintners Association. Guests will enjoy an array of unique Napa-bred pours from nine distinctive wineries, and creations from their talented team on the resort's picturesque Croquet Lawn. A beautiful display of cheese and charcuterie, antipasti, salads, signature sliders, tacos, a live oyster bar, mini desserts will serve as the perfect summer indulgence. Live music will be provided by The Class. Prepare for a stunning evening of wine, music and warm breezes.

UPDATE - Draft Mission Beach to Open TODAY! Belmont Park's Newest Eatery Announces Craft Beer List, Menu and Initial Happy Hour

June 18, 2014

Located directly on the Mission Beach boardwalk, the highly anticipated Draft is expected to 'soft' open TODAY, and we couldn't be more excited. This beer-centric bar and restaurant will serve up 69 beers on tap and 30+ bottles, pairing the surf and sand with a wide variety of crafts, from San Diego and beyond. But the appeal doesn’t stop at brews and views - come hungry and experience a fresh take on beachside dining featuring casual, handcrafted fare from Executive Chef Brad Wise. We've had a first look at the menu, so read on and get ready!

Win 2 Passes to the 14th Annual Taste of Adams Avenue | Sample 30 Eateries on Sunday, June 29 from 11-3pm

June 18, 2014

Sample some of San Diego's most delicious local eateries at the 14th annual Taste of Adams Avenue, taking place Sunday, June 29, from 11am to 3pm along Adams Avenue from University Heights through Normal Heights to Kensington. This year’s gastro tour of Adams Avenue features 30 restaurants, coffee houses, wine bars, and unique eateries in one of San Diego’s significant and celebrated neighborhoods. We at SanDiegoVille got our hands on 2 passes that we're giving away to one fortunate fan. By now you should know the drill, enter your email below, confirm entry and we'll contact the winner by email no later than Friday, June 27.

Enter for a chance to win 2 passes to the Taste of Adams Avenue on Sunday, June 29!

World Cup Fever Has Taken Over at True North Tavern in North Park

June 18, 2014

Fresh off Monday’s win over Ghana, World Cup fever is in full swing. Do you feel it? The pounding of your heart. The tingling sensation down your spine. The buckling of your knees and the sweat beginning to bead on your forehead. This year, True North Tavern is San Diego’s “World Cup Headquarters” and the hottest spot in town recently added to its cocktail menu to whet your World Cup whistle.

Cafe Cantata at Flower Hill Promenade Opens Today!

June 18, 2014

Cafe Cantata, the newest restaurant concept from Johan Engman, founder and owner behind the popular Fig Tree Cafe in Pacific Beach, Liberty Station and Hillcrest, will be open on the second level of Flower Hill Promenade today. Continuing to nurture his desire to offer a home-style, friendly option for local diners and the community, Cafe Cantata will serve a variety of breakfast dishes, sandwiches, salads and an array of beverages including coffee and fresh juices. Cafe Cantata will be open Monday - Sunday from 7am - 9pm and can be reached at (858) 925-7297. Follow on Facebook at facebook.com/CafeCantataSD for more information.

Humphreys Pays Homage to 33 Years of Concert Seasons with Celebrity-Inspired Menu

June 17, 2014

What do Steely Dan, Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs have in common, besides their musical genius? They’ve all eaten Paul Murphy’s food. Executive Chef Paul Murphy is a zany guy and he’s helmed the fast-pace kitchen at Humphreys Restaurant for over 12 years. He’s cooked for iconic stars, including Diana Ross, Dolly Parton and Tony Bennett during Humphreys’ popular Summer Concert Series, now in its 33rd year. In celebration of this milestone, he’s unveiled Performers and Plates, a special three-course menu in honor of some of the performers for whom Chef has most enjoyed cooking. The menu costs $33 and is comprised of two dishes and a dessert. The menu is specifically inspired by and modeled after Greg Allman of The Allman Brothers Band, Michael McDonald of The Doobie Brothers and Boz Scaggs.

Chef Laura de Martin Named Chef de Cuisine at Andaz San Diego

Chef Laura de Martin

June 17, 2014 

Andaz San Diego announced today that Laura de Martin has been named Chef de Cuisine.  The acclaimed chef is preparing to debut new breakfast, lunch and brunch menus at RoofTop600 at Andaz and will also manage the wine bar, pool bar and banquet menus. A lover of braising and beef cheeks, Chef Laura plans to infuse her take on contemporary regional cuisine with simple dishes accented with bold flavors and locally-sourced ingredients.  A secret chef’s table experience is also in the works which will take advantage of the hotel’s hidden 8-seat wine cellar.

Catalina Offshore Products to Host 3rd Annual Front Burner Fund Taco Throwdown on June 29 | Local Chefs Build Their Finest Tacos to Support San Diego's Culinary Community

June 17, 2014

On Sunday, June 29, from 1-4pm, local chefs will construct their most delicious taco concoctions to support San Diego's culinary community at Catalina Offshore Products. The Front Burner Fund, along with 15 premier chefs and restaurateurs, will join together for the 3rd Annual Taco Throwdown, a competition-based cooking demonstration and tasting that will raise funds to assist back of the house restaurant staff with emergency medical bills. SanDiegoVille has 2 passes for one lucky reader - just enter our raffle below and we will contact the winner by email by June 27.

Enter for a chance to win 2 passes to Front Burner Fund's Taco Throwdown on Sunday, June 29!

Culinary Café and Teaching Space Opens in Solana Beach | The Curious Fork Introduces Healthy Fare & Cooking Classes to North County

June 17, 2014

The Curious Fork, the new healthy café and hybrid culinary space in Solana Beach, is now open in the Ocean Pointe complex at 512 Via de la Valle.  The 1,800 sq. ft. venue is a haven for the health-conscious, food-curious community with a fresh quick-service café for breakfast and lunch, an educational kitchen offering cooking classes and guest speakers, and a culinary retail center, all under one roof. The Curious Fork strives to source the best organic ingredients and unique products – including the famed Oakland and Brooklyn-based Blue Bottle Coffee, marking the first time the coveted brand is offered in Southern California.