San Diego, CA: Valentine's Day in South Park

Valentine's Day in San Diego. The day of love is almost upon us, on a Friday, no less, which is awesome, so you better make plans now if you want to reserve a table for two. I’ve been checking around at some of my favorite haunts, and so far I’ve been able to confirm that the following South Park restaurants are honoring Feb. 14 with special menus or heart-felt plans. If you know of a place that’s not listed here and has V-Day plans, do tell.

Brabant Bar & Café

Brabant Bar & Café is going to offer a four-course Valentine’s dinner beginning at 6pm Friday and throughout the weekend while supplies last. It’s $60 a person (that doesn’t count tax and gratuity). They will not be accepting reservations, because they want everyone to take their time and enjoy their time, according to owner Adam Parker. Brabant is on 30th just north of Juniper. Here are the details:

1st course: Croquette with roasted tomato, spinach and farmer’s cheese
2nd course: Salad with pickled greens, roasted beets, and creme fraische with brown ale and sherry vinaigrette
3rd course (main): You choice of the following:

Waterzooi, which is a traditional Belgian chicken stew
Smoked ruby trout fillet with bearnaise sauce
Grilled rabbit quarters in cherry Kriek sauce (Kriek is style of Belgian beer)
4th course (dessert): Belgian dark chocolate cherry cake OR duo of truffles and profiteroles (cream puffs)

They will also have a Valentine’s cocktail as well as beer specials and Belgian beer pairings available.

Buona Forchetta

Owner Matteo Cattaneo said Buona Forchetta will have its regular menu plus some specials for the ladies, as well as a Valentine’s Day dessert. The big news, however, is the restaurant will take reservations. You can call them at 619-381-4844. Buona Forchetta is on the corner of Beech and 30th. Also, Buona Forchetta celebrates its first anniversary this month, so congratulations!

Alchemy

Alchemy has a four-course meal planned. It’s $65 a person. You can make reservations by going to Open Table, visiting Alchemy online, or calling the restaurant at 619-255-0616. Alchemy is on the corner of Beech and 30th. Here’s the deal:

1st Course:

Sweet potato bisque with carrot caviar, candied potato skin, yogurt, charred red Fresno chili oil

2nd Course

One of the following:

Soba noodle salad (small)
Polpette, aka Italian meatballs (beef, mortadella, rapini, Parmesan)
Mixed grain salad
Fideos (angel hair pasta, tomato, piquillo pepper, little neck clams, chorizo seco, saffron)
3rd Course

One of the following:

Vegan steak and bone marrow (smoked portabello, roasted garlic mashed potato, roasted zucchini, vegetable demi)
Dover sole with lemon grass broth, baby yellow beets, baby bok choy, shrimp dumplings
Moroccan duck (seared breast, stewed chickpeas, olives, tomato, preserved kumquat, duck merguez sausage, currant and almond cous cous, tangerine lace, mint olive oil)
4th Course

One of the following:

Pithviers (vanilla pastry cream, hand- made puff pastry, blueberries, whipped cream)
Nutella panna cotta
Pomegranate sorbet

Eclipse Chocolate Bar & Bistro

Eclipse has a four-course “Sweetheart Dinner” for $45 a person on Feb. 14 and 15. Seatings are 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Call 619-578-2984 for reservations. Eclipse is on the corner of Ivy and Fern. It’s also celebrating its first anniversary at its South Park location. Yay!

The meal includes the following:

A caramelized shallot and crème-filled, cocoa-butter buckwheat crepe with Burgandy mushroom
French onion soup with white-chocolate blood-orange olive oil croute and bruleed gruyere
Cocoa beef bourguignon or an heirloom root vegetable ratatouille, both served with orange peel vanilla bean hasselback potato and fried sage
Chile-burnt caramel apple tarte tartin with vanilla bean ice cream bombe.
There’s also an optional starter.

Go to the Eclipse web site to for more information.

The Rose Wine Pub

Sip on wine and play with glue sticks and glitter at their third annual Valentines’ Day Craft Party. How fun is that? You can probably make your honey a card right there at the bar. You’ll find The Rose at 2219 30th St.

If you know of other places in South Park with cool V-Day plans, please share!


Article courtesy of Bonnie Nicholls, the South Park Scribe, your expert on all things in South Park San Diego! Bonnie Nicholls is a freelance writer and blogger based in South Park, San Diego. She specializes in business success stories and web content. You can find her on Twitter.

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Highway One, CA: Eureka to San Diego

Experience an interactive journey of Highway One together with a couple of travelers. Seated in a '59 classic Cadillac Eldorado, you'll drive from the Redwood Highway in Northern California through Fort Bragg, San Francisco, Morro Bay and into Los Angeles and San Diego, stopping in a few places along the way.

Also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, this sea-hugging road winds its way down the USA’s western coastline. It’s a way to see the best of California and everything this state has to offer: not just golden beaches, but towering redwood forests, national parks, and glittering cities.

You can take your own virtual Highway One, which will start here.

1. Eureka
To get outdoors here, explore the rugged Lost Coast Trail for an easy, enjoyable hike which leads to some picturesque look-outs. Architecture buffs will love the 1880s Carson Mansion, and the Blur Ox Millworks offer an insight into the Victorian era of Eureka. Self-guided tours take you past tradespeople demonstrating the old-fashioned techniques of milling and carpentry.

2. Humboldt Redwoods State Park
One of the most amazing attractions in the whole of the USA, you won’t easily forget a drive along the Avenue of the Giants. The park is famed for its coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), many of which grow to over 90m in height. Over 100 of the 137 known trees 110m tall live in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

3. San Francisco
Try and spend a few days here to take a break from your drive to really get a feel for this unique city. Wander around Union Square - the heart of the city - before exploring the alleys of Chinatown and stopping for lunch on North Beach. Don’t miss noisy Fisherman’s Wharf or pretty Telegraph Hill.

4. Malibu
For many, Malibu is quintessential California, bursting with surfer dudes and beach babes to rival the stars of Baywatch. Muscle Beach is the spot to see the locals pumping iron and Zuma Beach is typically Malibu. In Zuma, the hills meet the ocean and there are some great spots to eat freshly caught seafood. The Malibu Family Wines vineyard is open for tastings, yours and food for something a little different.

5. Morro Bay
The landmark Morro Rock sits astride the pretty bay here - a turban-shaped, extinct volcanic cone about 23 million years old and inhabited by rare peregrine falcons. The Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History is a top spot to visit for a few hours. Or wander around the bay, keeping your eyes peeled for great blue herons and monarch butterflies from October to March.

6. Point Lobos State Reserve
This 550-acre seaside park boasts an assortment of coves, headlands, meadows, tide pools, and the nation's first undersea ecological reserve. Well-marked trails lead past Monterey cypresses, hundreds of species of birds and mammals include black-tailed deer, gray foxes, sea otters, and sea lions. Migrating gray whales are often spotted from land from December through April as they migrate.

7. Big Sur
Big Sur extends 90 miles south to San Simeon. Redwoods soar up to the sky and mountains plunge into the sea. There are lots of great inns and restaurants to stop at with great character.

8. La Jolla
Meaning ‘the jewel’ in Spanish, this little town is one of California’s prettiest seaside retreats. There are lots of beaches to relax upon - La Jolla Shores is often said to be California's most beautiful - and there are lots of brilliant restaurants to cater for all the visitors.

9. Torrey Pines State Park
Lying between La Jolla and Del Mar, Torrey Pines makes for a scenic stop, with hills and cliffs overlooking the coast and trails leading down to the beach. Continuing north along the coast will take you through the lovely towns of Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad and Oceanside, you'll drive right next to the coast and over a few lagoons connected to the ocean.

10. San Diego
San Diego offers many interesting attractions to the visitor in the neighborhoods away from the beach, such as Balboa Park, Downtown and Old Town. Check out Cabrillo National Monument at the tip of Point Loma for some panoramic views of the coastline, encompassing San Diego, the Bay, and the ocean, and learn about some of the history of the area.

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San Diego, CA: Beerology and Craft Beers

In San Diego craft beer is a prevalent part of the dining culture. Nothing represents this better than the Beerology exhibit at The Museum of Man in Balboa Park which is running through the Summer of 2014. This is evidenced by the booming number of local craft breweries in the area pumping out beers from special blends and labeled with enticing names. On any night of the week local beer drinkers can enjoy Double Bastard, Pearl Necklace, Belching Beaver, Satanic Chimp, Red Headed Hop Child, or Old Viscosity.

Ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, Chinese, and other cultures are represented in this exhibit and their strange, albeit clever brewing arts. The headhunters from the Amazon, chewed poisonous cassava root to create their unique beer (although the exhibit points out they rarely go headhunting any longer). Women of one tribe chews roots and spits them back into a bowl, which is then fermented and brewed to create the special "craft" brew.

The history of beer is quite fascinating dating back to the beginning of recorded history. The production of beer is credited with the creation of mathematics, property ownership, record keeping, and medicine. From Mesopotamia to San Diego, California, beer has been a healing and convivial part of our culture for over 10,000 years.

After enjoying the exhibit, one can travel to a number of local breweries to imbibe. Monkey Paw Brewery, Mission Brewery, Stone Brewery, Green Flash, Alesmith, Acoustic Ales and Ballast Point, all have tasting rooms within a short drive of Balboa Park. Most serve only beer, no other drinks or food, and are designed for the taste buds of the true beer connoisseur. But to enjoy a variety of beers in one location, and perhaps some delicious cuisine that compliments the local frothy broths, plenty of restaurants keep a good reserve on hand.

57 Degrees carries a nice variety of beer as well as being a wine retail store, wine bar, wine storage facility, and restaurant. Scrumptious selections of food, wine and of course, beer are available in this contemporary and lively venue. Serving also as an event facility, there is no shortage of vibrant and stimulating energy among the patrons and staff. To enjoy the perfect beverage while taking in the perfect sunset, overlooking San Diego Bay, 57 Degrees is the best location for a laid back vibe to end the day.

Another fantastic brewery that has it all, delectable food, a variety of drinks and of course, some of the finest craft beer, is Hillcrest Brewing Company. Touted as "The World’s First Out and Proud LGBT Brewery", HBC is located next door to the iconic Hillcrest Pride Flag and serves some of the best pizza one can find in San Diego. Hillcrest is known for it's wide variety of open-minded lifestyles and HBC seems to be a central location for locals and visitors alike to let their hair down and be real. The raucous laughter of the beer and pizza consumers is consistent from open to close here.

For more information on the Beerology exhibit visit their website.

San Diego Museum of Man
1350 El Prado, Balboa Park
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 239-2001
http://www.museumofman.org/

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Carlsbad, CA: Wine, Beer, and Cheese classes for La Costa Wine Company

Flummoxed with marrying your beer with the milky goodstuff? Not sure how to pair that bottle of shimmering wine? Up for some new tasting tricks, or just ready to drink to the dickens?

Then mix and match your delicious way to success with my 2014 class schedule, now available online!

These courses are a brilliant way to brush up on, or expand your curd, cork, and cerveza know how. They'll also make for much-coveted and droolworthy gifts this hustley-bustley holiday season.

Cheese & Wine (1/18, 2/9) $49
Cheese & Beer (1/15, 2/5, 3/9) $39
Wine 101 (2/8, 3/12, 4/13) $39

Give the gift of all three classes for $115, or better yet, gift yourself for making it through another gaggle of stressors this wintertide! Visit La Costa Wine Company online to find more information.

La Costa Wine Co.
6986 El Camino Real #2
Carlsbad, CA 92009


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San Diego, CA: South Park Luminaria

Crowds of people filled Grape Street Square to watch South Park’s first holiday tree sculpture light up the night. But this wasn’t your typical green Christmas tree, because South Park is not your typical urban setting.

Todd Williams, the artist who designed the sculpture, has tree cred. He was involved in the San Diego Port District’s Urban Trees public art project, and he also created the unusual metal tree sculpture at Alchemy restaurant.

The idea behind South Park’s tree sculpture was to 1) celebrate the holidays without killing a tree, and 2) use recycled, reused materials to reflect an urban setting. That lovely tree was once a wood fence, if you can believe it. You can also see how it’s constructed with nuts and bolts, those “individual elements coming together” that make a community, Williams said.

You could witness those different elements as local business owners, families, renters and homeowners, school kids, the elderly, gay and straight celebrated what was called First Light, the official kickoff of Luminaria, South Park’s first month-long celebration of light. We’re not a cookie-cutter neighborhood, because we’re not cookie-cutter people. We come from different backgrounds, yet what binds us together is love and appreciation for our little town.

The PA system at First Light made it tough to hear the speeches and presentations, but if you missed it, you should know that the South Park Business Group that organized the Luminaria named the winners of the home decorating contest. The winning homes were 1707 Fern St. for best overall design; 1920 Fern St. for most original; and 1738 30th St. for best door. Be sure to drive by these locations to experience what our creative neighbors have done to add sparkle to South Park. You can also see the winners on Facebook.

KUSI News and ABC News came to First Light, as well as special guests interim Mayor Todd Gloria, Assemblywoman Toni Atkins, and Santa, of course.

Don’t forget — the Luminaria Walkabout is Saturday, Dec. 7, 6-10 p.m. More info on SouthParkScene.com


Photos and article courtesy of Bonnie Nicholls, the South Park Scribe, your expert on all things in South Park San Diego! Bonnie Nicholls is a freelance writer and blogger based in South Park, San Diego. She specializes in business success stories and web content. You can find her on Twitter.

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San Diego, CA: Beer and Cheese Pairings in North Park

If your idea of cheese and beer is Cheetos and Bud at a football game, think again.

Such a pairing of carefully curdled delicacies and hops has gotten much more sophisticated, as I learned at Thorn Street Brewery in North Park, which recently put on an event with Venissimo Cheese.

I was skeptical because, as I’ve admitted before, I’m not a fan of brews (yes, strike me dead for liking Corona with lime). Couldn’t I just eat the cheese? But I was intrigued, and heck, I had to wash down the cheese with something.

Turns out, I came away pleasantly surprised, because when the flavors worked together, I found beer more palatable than ever before.

We tried five Thorn Street beers: a hefeweizen, a Belgian blond ale, an extra special bitter, an IPA, and an imperial Russian stout. The cheeses, on the other hand, came from all over the world and offered their own complexity - both in texture and taste.

We savored a silky soft Brunet goat cheese from Italy (a nice match with the hef), a super stinky French Munster, a Vermont cheddar, a Minnesota ghouda, a Delice de Bourgogne triple cream from France (a hit with the IPA), a Blue cheese from New York, and an aged ghouda from the Netherlands.

Beer and Cheese??

For each pairing, Rob Graff from Venissimo offered us a slice of a different cheese, sometimes two different cheeses. Our initial impulse, before listening to instruction, was to pop the whole chunk in our mouths, because when you’re offered a delicious cheese, why put on the brakes?

Because, like a first date, a good date, anyway, it’s better to take it slow. So we followed Rob’s direction: first taste the cheese (swallow), next sip the beer (swallow), then taste the cheese again, and while it is still dancing on your tongue and flirting with your taste buds, chase it with beer.

Did I really like that extra special bitter? Me? Yes, the cheese made it palatable. Who knew?

To finish off the evening, Rob served us a dessert cheese - a sweet, droopy mango-ginger stilton from England. That we ate on its own, without beer.

I would love to see such an event in South Park. Where do you think it might work? Hamilton’s? Alchemy? Eclipse?

Photos and article courtesy of Bonnie Nicholls, the South Park Scribe, your expert on all things in South Park San Diego!

Thorn Street Brewery
3176 Thorn Street
San Diego, CA 92104


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San Diego, CA: Food Truck Tuesdays in South Park

Every Tuesday evening you’ll find a mini food fair in South Park. Food trucks roll up to the Gala Foods parking lot at the corner of Grape and Fern Streets and offer all types of cuisine. You'll find a vast array of menu options such as grilled cheese sandwiches, ravioli, fish tacos, crepes, sliders, vegan meals, even patty melts from Corvette Diner. So is the food any good? Depends on what you order.

Possible options are the “Hi-So” slider from The Slider House. This little 2-ounce beef burger comes topped with prosciutto, arugula, gruyere cheese and garlic-lime aioli. Yum! It is about $4, which seems reasonable. The Green Truck, specializes in organic, sustainable food and one of it's offerings is pumpkin tacos, made with Suzie’s Farm heirloom pumpkin, caramelized onion, garlic crema, cherry tomato and onion sprouts. The cashier described them as “Christmas in your mouth,” and that’s accurate, because they tasted like pumpkin pie. Possibly too sweet for dinner, obviously depending upon your taste. Those two tacos cost about $8.

Another possibility is Italian food from Mangia Mangia Mobile: the catch of the day fish sandwich, the mushroom ravioli in a white sauce, and garlic fries. Reviews by attendees are mixed: fish sandwich wasn’t that flavorful, ravioli stuffing was good, but the white sauce was too dense, and the fries were OK. Price for that meal: $27. You can't beat the festive atmosphere, however. Frank Sinatra songs from Mangia Mangia’s speakers glided through the air as people mill about, looking at menus, and chatting with each other as they eat at the little tables. You can even shop for clothes from a mobile clothing boutique.

Other trucks that were there included: Grilled Cheese Gastrotruck, Ms. Patty Melt Food Truck, French
Crepes, and Mariscos Nine Seas (which is parked at Gala every day). Apparently the selection of food trucks changes weekly. Come to South Park and see what tickles your palette--every Tuesday from 5:30 to 8:30, Gala Foods parking lot, corner of Grape and Fern Streets.

Photos and article courtesy of South Park Scribe, your expert on all things in South Park San Diego!

Gala Foods
3030 Grape Street
(between 31st St & Fern St)
San Diego, CA 92102


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San Diego, CA: Dishcrawl East Village Nov 5

Dine your way through the entertaining city streets of Downtown San Diego into the neighborhood of East Village. The foodie scene in San Diego is emerging into this amazing culinary art, a change for the best that you will want experience. Put on your best outfit and join in on the fun that you will venture into Downtown San Diego. With so many amazing eats, get ready to give your palate tastes to remember. Dishcrawl - similar to a pubcrawl - but with food, offers a social culinary experience like no other. Unite with fellow foodies on this unique experience that includes a tour of 4 very distinct restaurants and a meet-and-greet with the chefs and owners to explore the inspiration behind each delectable dish. Come take part in the food adventure on Tuesday, November 5th at 7pm, tickets to the event are $45 and are available on the Dishcrawl website.

“The great thing about Dishcrawl is that one of the managers and owners will come out and briefly talk about what makes their restaurant special. Some will talk about the origin of a dish, their restaurant concept, the history of the chefs, and what makes them unique. You get the story, ask questions and are able to sample some of their dishes, you may have not otherwise ordered. I recommend that everyone experiences a Dishcrawl. If you like food, people and good atmosphere you will not be disappointed!” - Jennifer Boyd of San Diego Secrets and Treasurer of San Diego Social Media Club.

At Dishcrawl’s events, our ticket-holders visit four restaurants in one night, sampling each restaurant's specialties and meeting the chefs or owners. It's not your typical "tour" company, rather, it is a local neighborhood event and ultimate dining experience.

Participating restaurants are kept secret until two days before the event, at which time the first location is revealed to ticket holders.

For more information about Little Italy’s upcoming Dishcrawl visit http://dishcrawl.com/sandiego/ check out our facebook or follow @DishcrawlSD.

About Dishcrawl
Dishcrawl creates dining experiences and events to satisfy anyone’s craving. Our mission is to show food lovers the best dishes in local restaurants. You can find your local Dishcrawl Ambassador leading you through progressive dinners, prix fixe dinners, and other fun food events! Dishcrawlers can enjoy dining experiences in San Francisco, New York, Montreal, Ottawa, San Jose, Toronto, Philadelphia, DC, and more. Visit Dishcrawl.com for a local dining experience.


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San Diego, CA Resurrecciòn III, Day of the Dead, Art and Music Event, October 26

Arte Fresca and Konstant Be are back at it again for the 3rd annual Dìa de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Art & Music event! This year over 20 amazing local artists will be creating on hand-crafted wooden crosses--this art is not to be missed. And when you purchase the art you will be saving lives. Additionally there will be live art, Day of the Dead make-up artists for face painting, live bands, DJ's, raffle prizes and more.

This year this spectacular event is being held at The Merrow (formerly The Ruby Room) 1271 University. It starts at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 26th and closes at 2:00 a.m., Sunday morning, October 27th. There is a $7.00 cover charge, but if you're in costume, the price drops to only $5.00!

Face painting will be offered by Elizabeth Pina and Noemi Salvador. Live artists will include Linda Halsey, Danny Peralta, Val Yazon, Hill Young, and Arek Art.

Sounds will be provided by Melaza Underground, and if you want to follow your favorite musicians, here's the schedule:

• 9:30 - 10:00 p.m:  Lillian LeFranc
• 10:30 - 11:00 p.m.: Viva Apollo
• 11:30 p.m. - 12:15 a.m.:  Restoration One

The Merrow (formerly The Ruby Room)
1271 University
San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 299-7372


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San Diego, CA: Hostel Takeover Art Show October 20

A growing art event, Hostel Takeover, at Hostelling International Downtown San Diego has been helping downtown San Diego become more inviting to local artists. Hostel Takeover has succeeded in not only bringing fresh local art to that area of town that had never represented San Diego’s local culture, but has also been bringing in more and more local artists of all mediums. Held every few months, this event has also been attracting as many as 400 attendees from all parts of the country as well as some international guests. The next Hostel Takeover will be held Sunday, October 20, 2013 from 6:00 to 11:00 pm.

Not only will visitors be treated to an amazing array of artistic endeavors but there will also be delicious food and live music for your enjoyment. If you would like to participate, please send an email to [email protected]. There is a suggested donation of $3.00 to attend.

Hosteling International
521 Market Street
San Diego, CA 92101
http://www.sandiegohostels.org/


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San Diego, CA: 5th San Diego Spirits Festival August 24-25

San Diego Spirits Festival and San Diego Cocktail Week highlight the cocktail and culinary community and the talented bartenders and chefs who are shaking up San Diego’s vibrant scene. Its all about Cocktails, Culinary and Culture set on San Diego Bay! San Diego Spirits Festival is all about Lifestyle, make San Diego your Lifestyle Destination and Join for Year 5!

SHAKE it UP at the end of summer in San Diego, August 24-25, with a fresh and booming cocktail and culinary scene at the San Diego Spirits Festival! The preeminent West Coast COCKTAIL CULINARY and CULTURAL event where the world of CRAFT spirits, high profile liquors and fine cuisine unite overlooking a sun-drenched San Diego Bay and make a huge splash! You know it's bound to be a party when MÖTLEY CRÜE front man VINCE NEIL showcases his Tatuado Vodka at the San Diego Spirits Festival with a spectacular launch.

This one of a kind weekend, held at the spacious Port Pavilion, brings together hundreds of distinct liquors and gourmet morsels in a festive and fun loving environment. Sample any of the spirits you come across, whetting your whistle with tasty tequilas, raucous rums, magnetic moonshines, vivacious vodkas, genteel gins, wild whiskeys, marvelous mezcals, and more.

Need to fill up a bit? Delicious cuisine is on hand for your culinary needs as well. During the day, witness cocktail battles, pitting expert bartenders against one another, along with chef/bartender battles, burlesque shows, samba dancers and even a craft beer section.

For information or to get your all Inclusive tickets with UNLIMITED TASTINGS visit San Diego Spirits Festival.


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San Diego Spirits Festival
Contact Liz Edwards
5580 La Jolla Blvd, #436 La Jolla CA 92037
Venue - San Diego Spirits Festival
Port Pavilion On Broadway Pier
1000 N. Harbor Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
858-551-1605

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San Diego: San Diego RV Resort

San Diego RV Resort simplifies the all-important family vacation with activities that will delight parents and children alike. The brand new San Diego 5-Day Trolley Itinerary uses the MTS Trolley, located just moments from the resort, to help families explore the area’s top attractions with ease.

This itinerary hits all the major sites in San Diego, beginning with San Diego Zoo. Day two takes visitors to the wild waters of SeaWorld and neighboring beaches. After all the sun and fun of days one and two, SDRV recommends hopping the trolley to Old Town for a low-key day touring historical buildings and enjoying a delicious meal at a family-friendly Mexican restaurant. Day four is all about downtown and features Little Italy, Gaslamp Quarter, the USS Midway Museum and Seaport Village. With just one day left to explore, take the trolley downtown and board the ferry for a quick 15-minute sail to famous Coronado Island. Coronado Beach, voted the country's best beach in 2012, gives parents a chance to relax on the last day of vacation while the kids build sandcastles and play in calm waves.

Thanks to San Diego RV Resort’s ideal location and budget-friendly pricing, families can make the most of their Southern California trip without breaking the bank. View San Diego RV Resort’s 5-Day Trolley Itinerary in its entirety at http://www.sdrvresort.com.

About San Diego RV Resort:
San Diego RV Resort, a Sunland RV Resort property, puts the best of Southern California at your fingertips. The award-winning San Diego RV Resort is centrally located with convenient freeway access. Spacious lots with full hookups and quality amenities welcome guests; while nearby attractions ensure there is never a dull moment. Our comfortable, pet-friendly enviroment is the perfect location for short trips or extended stays. To learn more, visit http://www.sdrvresort.com.

San Diego RV Resort‎

7407 Alvarado Road San Diego, CA 91941 (877) 717-6667

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San Diego to Paso Robles

Driving from San Diego to Paso Robles, the sights of California. . .

Orange County traffic on a sunny day.

Good Year Blimps drops in for a visit in the O.C.

Weather is Picture Perfect in Burbank

Along the coast, approaching the lovely village of Seaside, CA

The landscape begins to change the further we head up the coast

Where the 101 leaves the Santa Barbara coastline, north of Gaviota

Miles of vineyards, as far as the eye can see

Rustic barns and ranches pop up along the horizon

A 2012 Fiat Abarth, a rarity for these parts

The historic bells hanging from a shepherd's hook line El Camino Real

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San Diego, CA: East Village's Unique Restaurants

When one thinks of San Diego's downtown, it's hard not to mention the rows of restaurants and cafes that line the famous Gas Lamp District or the old world cuisine of Little Italy.

However, the East Village community has gone through a massive redevelopment and now offers a wide array of fine dining, breweries, wine bars, and coffee shops. One of San Diego's largest communities, East Village stretches from the Gas Lamp District to the west to the I-5 Freeway to the east. It's home to Petco Park where the San Diego Padres play and is a short walk to the Convention Center, the waterfront, and Balboa Park.

Knotty Barrel

Knotty Barrel, East Village, San Diego

Knotty Barrel, one of East Village’s newest gastropubs, features fine, locally-sourced dining and the area's largest selection of craft beer, with twenty-two taps and nearly sixty in bottles.  Partnering with local farmers and vendors that deliver the freshest ingredients possible, some signature ingredients their Consulting Chef, Ted Witte, especially enjoys working with include fresh heirloom tomatoes, Duroc bacon, all natural chicken, and CAB beef.  Just a few blocks away from Petco Park, Knotty Barrel offers an eclectic respite for baseball fans before or after the game.

Evening hours at Knotty Barrel heats up with week long activities including Live Prize Trivia, oyster shooters, table shuffleboard, and live music on the weekends.  Along with seasonal "beer school", and the liveliest parties running past midnight, Knotty Barrel is East Village's favorite hangout to unwind.

Our Favorites: Knotty Wings with Spicy Sweet Chili Sauce, Bison Burger with Stilton bleu cheese, red onions, on egg bun, Chipotle Glazed Meatloaf with Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes.

Knotty Barrel
844 Market Street
San Diego, CA 92101
619-269-7156
http://www.knottybarrel.com

Village 631

Village 631, East Village, San Diego

Folks who need their morning coffee and pastries will find a breath of fresh roast at Village 631.  Considered by East Village locals as the favorite hangout for java and exotic tea against the much homogenized franchise coffee shops, Village 631 places emphasis on fresh and homemade.

Pastries and croissants are baked on the premises each morning.  Nothing is purchased frozen, but sourced fresh from seasonable, sustainable, organic local growers.  Breakfast sandwiches, scrambled eggs, and green smoothies are enjoyed in the morning.  For lunch, customers select from fresh salads, hot sandwiches, and assorted pies and cupcakes.  In the evenings, sit at the bar over their selection of craft beers and fine wines.

Our Favorites: Brioche Sandwich (morning): Spinach, arugula almond pesto, Tomato, Mozzarella, Farm Fresh eggs.  BLTA Sandwich (lunch), Apple Smoked Bacon, house made tomato jam, house made garlic aioli, avocado, crisp romaine.

Village 631
631 9th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 255-9405
http://www.thevillageat631.com/


Cafe Chloe

Cafe Chloe, East Village, San Diego

Fine French dining can be found on the corner of 9th & G in the heart of East Village.  Coveted by nearby residents and San Diego's foodie fans, Cafe Chloe was founded by three partners, Tami Ratliffe, John Clute and Alison McGrath, who wanted to bring a little French culture to East Village with a passion for food, beer and wine.

French bistro tables accommodate lunch-hour customers with cups of tea and plates of cheese.  In the evening hours, regulars drop by for a bottle of their favorite French wine varietals and authentic Parisian-style cuisine.  Cafe Chloe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Our Favorites: Smoked trout salad with apple, fingerlings, almonds, & apple vinaigrette, Lamb cassoulet-house merguez sausage, braised lamb, pork belly confit, white beans, & suzie’s squashes.

Cafe Chloe
721 Ninth Ave #1
San Diego CA 92101
619-232-3242
http://www.cafechloe.com/

Bub's at the Ballpark

Bub's at the Ballpark, East Village, San Diego

With the San Diego Padres calling East Village its home, it's hard not to find a sports bar nearby, and Bub's at the Ballpark holds the crown for hosting the liveliest sports venue in town. Bub's is a place where locals and visitors alike enjoy one-of-a-kind entertainment and food. Follow several games at once across their vast array of plasmas and projectors, take shots on their in-house basketball court, and enjoy table shuffleboard.

Known for their baskets of tater tots, Bub's has a fun and catchy menu that takes timeless pub fare standards and turns them into eclectic gastropub dishes that rival any five-star restaurant in San Diego. Every Saturday & Sunday locals come to Bub's for their famous Bloody Mary bar, offering the largest choices of mixes, spices, sauces, and garnishes, for a breakfast of champions in true East Village form.

Our Favorites: Mac & Cheese Scramble, where macaroni & cheese meets eggs & potatoes, Pittsburgh Steak Sandwich with chipotle aioli sauce, Bub's Downtown Pasta with Madiera cream sauce.

Bub's @ The Ballpark
715 J Street
San Diego, CA 92101
619-546-0815
http://bubssandiego.com/

Cowboy Star

Cowboy Star, East Village, San Diego

Cowboy Star is the first restaurant in San Diego’s East Village to serve up a unique dining experience by combining contemporary American cuisine with a western flare. Winner of the 2008 Orchid Award for Interior Design, the restaurant features exposed beam ceilings‚ cowboy accents‚ and classic landscape photography giving Cowboy Star a welcoming atmosphere where locals gravitate.

A stunning display kitchen is the focal point of Cowboy Star, offering an insiders view of the action. The bar at Cowboy Star offers a stylish and cozy environment complete with large leather booths, a fireplace and hand-crafted cocktails. Working with a palette of the finest ingredients available, Executive Chef Victor Jimenez creates menu masterpieces which embody the spirit of the American West and utilize the season's freshest offerings.

Cowboy Star's steaks are hand cut in house, and are sourced from independent, family owned ranches. They select only “Natural” programs, no antibiotics and no growth hormones are used. Cowboy Star is also recognized by Humane Farm Animal Care for our support and dedication to the Certified Humane Raised and Handled program.

Our Favorites: 14 oz. Ribeye Steak, remarkably tender and flavorful, is PRIME Natural from Meyer Ranch in Nebraska and aged for 21 days. Pork Duo, a duo of Salmon Creek Farm pork plated with a
cauliflower puree, baby broccoli, grilled mushroom polenta and meyer lemon gremolatta.

Cowboy Star
640 Tenth Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 450-5880
http://www.thecowboystar.com/

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San Diego, CA: Get a Room! (at The Uber Sexy Keating Hotel)

Southern California. Italian design. Ferrari. Stainless steel. Maserati. Bang and Olufsen. Rain showerheads. Just one of these by itself is damn sexy. Put them all together, add a king-sized bed, and you have the uber sexy Keating Hotel. 

The Keating is the first born hotel of Pininfarina, the Italian design firm best known for their works of automotive art: the Ferrari and the Maserati. They have successfully transformed one of the oldest buildings in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp district into a hip 35-room boutique lifestyle hotel. Today sexiness oozes out of every black and vintage brick wall, the red carpeted and polished cement floors, and each sleek steel counter. 

The attention to detail at The Keating is seductive. If you listen closely, you might find yourself standing in a particular area with some intriguing acoustics. If you look carefully, you may catch a glimpse of a rearview mirror or a gear shift in places where you would not expect them. When you enter your room, the seduction is complete. With no interior walls (except around the toilet) and vaulted ceilings, you can see everything...

...a Lavazza espresso machine (with herbal tea for those who aren’t looking to buzz)

...Italian linens (by Frette) and goose down pillows

...stylish Dornbracht bathroom fixtures

...a remote controlled Bang & Olufsen entertainment system (that also works the lights)

...a handheld shower head (for the woman who just desires a rinse)

...even luxurious towelettes in la toilette (wow)

Although there is much to see and taste throughout the Gaslamp district, it’s entirely possible to satiate all your senses without ever straying outside of The Keating compound.

Inside the hotel is a mini fitness room, a business center and conference room, and a plush meeting lounge. There's even a resident pet...Smudge, the Boston terrier. (Yes, The Keating is pet-friendly.)

The menu at the main restaurant, the MerK Bistro, was recently restyled by Executive Chef Brian Rutherford and TV Chef Gordon Ramsay from Italian fare to American “farm to table” creations. Whether its breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, you’ll be a bit stumped as to which fresh seasonal dish to choose. As I sipped on a Keating Cosmo at dinner, I believe I may have moaned. I’m certain I did when the roasted beet and burrata salad, fried calamari, and carpaccio with mustard créme hit my tongue. So I was only a tad disappointed that I had just missed Club di Vino, which meets on first Thursday of the month to bestow multiple tastings from a featured boutique winery, food pairings, and a casual enology lesson upon guests. 

After listening to live jazz at Croce’s, descend underground to the swanky and passionately red Sway Lounge where you can store your wine in a private liquor locker next to the former bank vault and toast until 4 a.m.

On the weekend, be sure and sneak out before 3 a.m. to grab a slice of gourmet pizza at the New York City-style Krust Pizzeria. Might I suggest the delectable "Loaded Baker" followed by a chocolate chip cookie that rivals your mom’s? It's now time to return immediately to your room and mess up that bed! 

Oh, yes...I am speaking from absolutely exquisite experience when I urge you to grab your “other” and race to get a room at The Keating Hotel. Pronto!

The Keating Hotel

432 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101

619.814.5700

[email protected]

www.thekeating.com

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San Diego, CA: Lajollacooks4u Takes Guests on Two-Day Culinary Adventure

Lajollacooks4u provides private, hands-on cooking classes and dining experiences. Based in La Jolla, CA, Lajollacooks4u was the recent starting point for two guests from Pasadena who got to see and taste the flavors of Farmers’ Markets, bakeries and olive shops, in addition to cooking up a 5 course gourmet meal in the kitchen of Lajollacooks4u.

La Jolla, a suburb of San Diego, has long been a top destination for tourists with its idyllic Mediterranean climate, quaint shops and its beaches. Now the location getaway is also becoming a popular culinary getaway, thanks, in part, to Lajollacooks4u - the number one ranked tour destination on Trip Advisor.

Jodi Abel, founder of Lajollacooks4u, said her guests are looking for a complete cooking experience and that includes visiting local farmers’ markets,foodie tours and, of course, hands-on cooking classes. "Not only do we teach how to cook a delicious, nutritious meal, we create memories that will last a lifetime,” Abel said. Abel added that her guests want a unique experience." Our two-day Culinary Adventure gives our guests something very unique and special. We specialize in Californian Cuisine; a cuisine that generates its heritage from the abundant locally grown produce and infuses Latin and Asian flavors."

Lajollacooks4u offers guests the opportunity to customize their menu and recipe selection based on their palate preferences. The location provides a very intimate and beautiful setting, allowing guests to relax, sip wine, listen to music and have plenty sample tasting along the way.

Loretta Smith and her dear friend and business partner, Tillie Collins, recently visited Lajollacooks4u for a two- day culinary adventure that began with an evening gourmet cooking and dining experience. This was followed up with a unique foodie tour the following day, culminating with a farm-to-table Asian influenced cooking class and meal. Smith and Collins are both seasoned cooks and have been on several other culinary vacations. "The two days we spent with Jodi where so much fun and special; we learned a lot and we’re excited to try her recipes at home" Smith said.

Lajollacooks4u, founded in 2008, provides an ideal activity for couples, corporate team building, special occasion celebrations and any foodie looking for a cooking and culinary experience in an ideal setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Based in La Jolla, a suburb of San Diego, CA, Lajollacooks4u has enjoyed record growth since its inception and has been ranked the number one attraction in La Jolla on the world’s largest travel review site, Trip Advisor.

For more information, contact Jodi Abel at jodi(at)lajollacooks4u(dot)com or phone 1-858-752-4980.

Visit online at: http://lajollacooks4u.com/

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Alpine, CA: Viejas Casino Unveils New Buffet

Viejas tribal leaders, casino executives, Team Members, guests and others gathered together on May 22, 2012 for the Grand Opening of the all-new Buffet at Viejas, which takes the San Diego area’s buffet experience to an entirely new level.

Viejas Casino’s buffet has been enormously popular ever since it opened as the Harvest Buffet in 2000. But the all-new Buffet at Viejas has a new look and feel from the ground up - with a new, open and airy dining room as well as a clean, crisp serving area featuring a Sushi Station, Mexican Station, Asian Station, Southern Style Station, BBQ Station Carving Station, Seafood Station, Pasta Station and much more. Specialty food items include prime rib, crab legs, oysters, fajitas, salmon, pho, and an amazing new bakery and dessert area. The Buffet at Viejas even includes state of the art audio and visual features throughout the dining area.

Tribal elders, tribal leaders, local dignitaries, Chamber of Commerce representatives and the public all joined in the Grand Opening of the new Buffet at Viejas today. The ceremonies included a Tribal Blessing, traditional Native American Bird Songs and a ribbon cutting.

Viejas Casino General Manager Chris Kelley said, “The new Buffet at Viejas tops off a major, year-long renovation of the entire casino floor and continues the modern, clean airy look and feel that our guests enjoy.” Kelley added, “We have upgraded the quality and variety of food offerings throughout the property, adding exciting new venues like North of the Border taco shop and Far East Express. The Buffet at Viejas continues this effort and will provide our guests and all of San Diego with an exciting new culinary and visual experience.”

The Buffet at Viejas is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11am to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturday.

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Located east of San Diego, Viejas Casino has thousands of slot machines, exciting table games, a poker room, an off-track betting facility and a new high-stakes bingo room. Viejas Casino features a variety of restaurants including the award-winning Grove Steakhouse, North of the Border taco shop and Far East Express. The beautiful Viejas Outlet Center, located across the street, offers visitors a unique shopping experience with more than 50 name-brand stores, numerous eateries, Viejas Bowl and Viejas Mini Golf.

Viejas Casino
5000 Willows Road
Alpine, CA 91901
800-847-6537
http://www.viejas.com

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San Diego, CA: Haute La Jolla Nights

Summer nights are heating up in the Village of La Jolla with a series of festive, evening events that bring together La Jolla’s world-class arts community with live music and unique shopping experiences.

When: Saturday Nights-June 9th, July 21st, Sept. 15th
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Where: Throughout the Village of La Jolla, San Diego, CA, (Girard Ave. from Pearl to Prospect, Prospect St.,Herschel and Ivanhoe.)
Cost: Free

The La Jolla Village Merchants Association created the event series to make La Jolla an exciting night-time destination. “We are creating a series of events for La Jolla that are modeled after some other, very successful events, like “Kettner Nights” in Little Italy and “Ray of Night” in North Park,” says James Niebling, LJVMA Board Member and Partner at Esteban Interiors.

For three sizzling Saturday nights, patrons will enjoy a vibrant nightlife in La Jolla Village with 13 live music acts, art gallery receptions and special events hosted in each of the shops located throughout La Jolla.

Over 75 shops throughout La Jolla Village, from home furnishings and décor to high fashion and accessories are participating in Haute La Jolla Nights. They are keeping their doors open late and have gotten creative with deals, displays, demonstrations, and delectable treats for a nighttime shopping experience that can’t be missed. Customers will enjoy complimentary appetizers and specialty drinks at many of the retail shops. And, they will find special discounts that are available only during Haute La Jolla Nights.

Customers can sip champagne while watching a floral demonstration at Adelaide’s, enjoy fashion shows at La Donna’s Boutique, Kerut’s and Talbots. Warwick's will feature distinct San Diego craft brewers for beer tasting and book signings. Harvard Cooking Girl is cooking up samples of Paella. Geppetos is hosting an arts and crafts event for patrons who want to bring their children.

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La Jolla’s many, world renowned art galleries are throwing open their doors to welcome the public to take in exciting new collections. Madison Galleries is hosting a reception for sculpturist Matt Devine and neo-pop conceptual artist, James Verbicky. Contemporary Fine Arts Gallery is hosting a reception for visionary contemporary artist, Orlando Agudelo-Botero. Africa and Beyond will serve up African music, wine and a presentation on ancient currency.

The La Jolla Village Merchants Association invites all to enjoy this new La Jolla Event. Haute La Jolla Nights - Music, shopping, art, food all in the Jewell of California - La Jolla!

http://www.lajollabythesea.com/

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Coronado, CA: The Best Beach in California

Coronado Beach is the number one beach in the 22th annual Top 10 Beach List, produced by coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, a professor at Florida International University.

Coronado Beach in San Diego is a 1.5 mile long, wide sandy beach set against the backdrop of the iconic Hotel del Coronado with its peaked red roof and classic Victorian architecture. The beach is popular for swimmers, surfers, sunbathers and beachcombers. The beach is very flat, making it great for skim boarding and walking, and the sand has a silvery sheen because of the presence of mica. Families arrive in the morning, toting umbrellas, beach towels and picnic coolers for an all-day stay. A great team of lifeguards stands watch.

Coronado is a quaint small town combined with sophisticated luxury and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. The best way to get around town is by bicycling on the relatively flat, milelong city of Coronado. A scenic way to reach Coronado is by pedestrian ferry or water taxi from downtown San Diego.

Hotel del Coronado, with its iconic red roof and white construction, is a popular beachfront luxury hotel, and one of the few surviving examples of an American architectural genre: the wooden Victorian beach resort. It is one of the oldest and largest all-wooden buildings in California and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, and is a designated California Historical Landmark. The "Del" received a Four Diamond rating from the American Automobile Association, and was once listed by USA Today as one of the "Top 10 Resorts In The World".

The most popular annual event in Coronado is the July 4 parade. Coronado Independence Day activities kick off with a 15k Run/Walk at dawn. The day includes a rough-water swim at North Beach, the famous two-hour parade along Orange Avenue, Art-in-the-Park, a concert in Spreckels Park, and culminates with spectacular fireworks over Glorietta Bay.

One of the most popular annual events in this city is the Coronado Flower Show, held usually on the third weekend in April. Since 1925, thousands of visitors have flocked here to see the largest flower show held under tents in the West. Exhibits are placed inside tents surrounding a central gazebo, which becomes the stage for continuous entertainment, announcements and trophy presentations.

Every July, the Coronado Island Sports Fiesta features a combination of competitive races, dives, rough-water swim and other events.

Also, the Superfrog Triathlon event is held each year in September.

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As “Dr. Beach” (www.DrBeach.org), Leatherman has selected the annual Top 10 Beaches since 1991. Fifty criteria are used to evaluate beaches, which include water and sand quality as well as safety and environmental management. Dr. Leatherman is an internationally known coastal scientist who has published 16 books with the recent release of Field Guide to the Water’s Edge (National Geographic, Washington, DC, 288 pages; www.nationalgeographic.com/books) and hundreds of scientific articles about storm impacts, coastal erosion and ways to improve beach health and safety. A new website (www.Beachfinder.org) has been developed to help you find other great American beaches.

Contact Elevation Travel for discounted hotel rates: http://www.goelevationtravel.com

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San Diego, CA: Whiskey Girl Reinvents Menu and Dining Experience

Whiskey Girl, where San Diego goes to dine, dance, drink and enjoy live entertainment has launched a revamped, expansive new menu that will appeal to a wider array of casual diners and Gaslamp Quarter nightlife-goes alike.

Chef and Restaurateur Brad Anderson, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, was brought in as a consultant to create a fresh and fun menu that encompasses Whiskey Girl’s energetic atmosphere and new design elements. "My goal was to create original menu items to help elevate the venue out of the shadow of bar-food and become a relevant dining location to a more diverse crowd of ever changing Gaslamp Quarter patrons,” said Brad Anderson.

The contemporary menu features high quality fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, unexpected textures and unique food combinations. “We wanted everything on this menu to reflect Whiskey Girl’s new image; a pop-art inspired, casual and fun atmosphere,” said managing partner David Schiffman. Several signature dishes suggested by the Chef are:

Cowboy Pasta

• Whiskey Burger- Whiskey basted ½ lb. Angus beef burger topped with cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, Philly sirloin steak, sautéed onions and mozzarella cheese on a Whiskey Girl “branded” bun - served with a shot of Jack Daniels. Must be 21 or older to order - No Kidding.
• Seared Ahi Salad- Sesame ginger crusted seared Ahi, served rare, spring mix greens, julienne vegetables and tomatoes tossed with sesame ginger vinaigrette. Suggested Pairing; Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay
• Santa Fe Tostada Burger- Angus beef burger, Chorizo, pepper jack cheese, crispy tortilla, avocado, sour cream, lettuce, tomato, red onion and chipotle mayo on a Whiskey Girl “branded” bun. Suggested Pairing; Blue Moon Belgian White.
• Cowboy Pasta- Marinated grilled skirt steak or grilled chicken breast, fire roasted tomato sauce, garlic, onions, jalapenos, beer, tumbleweed onions and a touch of hot sauce over linguine. Suggested Pairing: Dos Equis

Breakfast dishes around $7, served all day. Lunch and Dinner entrees range in price from $9-$20, full menu available until 11:00pm. Special Late Night Menu from 11:00pm-12:30am. Happy Hour Monday-Friday 4:00pm-8:00pm offering $3 wells, drafts and select wine as well as ½ off select appetizers.

About Chef Brad Anderson

After graduating from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Brad continued his education at Florida International University, School of Hotel and Restaurant Management where he received his Bachelor of Science. With more than 30 years experience as a restaurant professional, Anderson has used his talent and education to improve restaurant performance and success. He has impressed colleagues with strong leadership and creative solutions while delighting customers with his culinary ability, passion for food, superior service and fine wine. Chef Brad will be embarking on an exciting new journey this summer as General Manager of The Range Kitchen & Cocktails at The Market Place, Irvine.

About Whiskey Girl

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Whiskey Girl is owned by partners David Schiffman, Robert Lane and Vania Raitano, who also own The Range Kitchen & Cocktails in the Hillcrest area of San Diego. Other projects of Schiffman include The Tipsy Crow and Double Deuce, located in the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, and 1st Street Bar, located in Encinitas. For more about Whiskey Girl, visit http://www.WhiskeyGirl.com. To stay in the know about Whiskey Girl, become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/whiskeygirlsd or twitter @WhiskeyGirlSD.

Whiskey Girl
702 5th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 236-1616

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