Top Food Events: February Main Dish

Taste of the Market

WHEN: Feb. 10, 4PM-6:30PM
COST: $85

San Diego Public Market is an idea whose time is overdue. Spearheaded by Dale Steele and Catt White in Barrio Logan, it’s a massive space where local foodmakers huddle, tinker, sell, grow. Like San Francisco’s Ferry Building or Seattle’s Pike Place Market—both permanent shops and restaurants, plus twice-weekly farmers markets at the 92,000 square-foot warehouse. To make it grow/work/be awesome, they need cash (few angel investors throw millions at food markets). On Feb. 10 they’re throwing their coming-out party, with local chefs like Trey Foshee (George’s), Katie Grebow (Café Chloe), Pete Balistreri (Tender Greens) and Ryan Johnston (Whisknladle). Chef Andrew Spurgin is recreating a Po’ Boy restaurant on site (actually building it) with torn upholstery, Crystal, Luisiana hot sauce—and Snake Oil Cocktail Co. handling libations for it. Melissa Mayer from Martini Media is building a tortilleria with Descanso chicken. Chad White will be on hand with his Baja Med Bistro. There’s even talk of a photo booth with a live chicken. Net proceeds go toward developing the Market Kitchen, a culinary center, micro-kitchen and small business incubator inside the SDPM.

LOCATION: San Diego Public Market, 1753 National Ave., Barrio Logan, 619.233.3901
ADDITIONAL INFO: www.sandiegopublicmarket.com

G’Night, Whaling Bar

WHEN: Feb. 14, 11AM-11PM
COST: Free

The Whaling bar was around since San Diego belonged to its original owners. OK, that calculation may be off a year or two. But it’s been a long time. And on Valentine’s Day, it shuts down forever. La Valencia is retiring the space as part of its multimillion-dollar remodel. I’m sure the new space will have its immense charms. But the WB will be sorely missed. Go get weepy about it over a Manhattan.

LOCATION: La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.3765
ADDITIONAL INFO: www.lavalencia.com

Beer Dinner

WHEN: Feb. 5, 6PM
COST: $30

Matt Gordon is doing well. Rightfully so. The chef who started in North Park at Urban Solace jus signed a leas to bring his third restaurant to Flower Hill Promenade in Del Mar. Meanwhile, his second LEED-certified joint in Encinitas is going strong. On Feb. 5, he’ll pair with local brewers like Green Flash, Societe, Butcher’s Brewing (from his brother-in-law, Rey Knight) and Rough Draft for a pairing dinner. A portion of the proceeds to go StandUp for Kids, a great local charity that uses music therapy for kids with learning disabilities.

LOCATION: Solace & The Moonlight Lounge, 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433
ADDITIONAL INFO: www.eatatsolace.com