PALATE WRECKER @ GREEN FLASH: One of S.D.’s biggest and best, Green Flash Brewing Company releases its cultish Palate Wrecker today—an absolute hops-bomb (it’s double-brewed) and winner of the Michael Jackson American Cask Award at the 2011 Great British Beer Festival (named for a Brit, not the deceased pop singer). They’re celebrating the release all week at their brewery, but it starts today at 3PM when they fling open the tasting room. Limited edition Palate Wrecker glassware goes with a purchase, and Green Go food truck will whip up food pairings for the night (aged smoked gouda grilled cheese). Green Flash upped the production this year because, if they’ve proven anything, it’s that SD craft brew fans can’t get enough hops. The event itself is free, but you gotta buy your own Palate Wrecker. 6550 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa, 858.622.0085, greenflashbrew.com.
LA PLANCHA @ CARNITAS SNACK SHACK: He’s at it again. Chef Chad White‘s pop-up, Plancha Baja Med, kicks off today at the Shack with seatings at 6 and 8:30. If you miss today’s event, fret not—his food show takes place again on Jan. 22 and 29 at The Shack. Musings include: urchin (erizo), tongue (lengua), pork (puerco) and rice (arroz). $65 a pop, plus tax and service fee. In case you missed it, the Shack just got their beer and wine license and starts serving Green Flash on Wednesday. Note: These pop-ups are by reservations only, so make sure you reserve ahead of time by clicking here. 2632 University Ave., North Park, 619-294-7675, www.carnitassnackshack.com
