Restaurant Week
WHEN: Sept. 15-20
WHERE: All Over
COST: $20-$40
Yes, it’s back. And yes, it means many restaurant snobs around San Diego are going to complain about “rookie week” in their favorite bistros. But, really, to hell with them. It’s a great way to check out restaurants you may be currently priced out of. You know how it works by now: Over 180 restaurants will create three-course prix fixe menus for $20, $30 or $40. My picks: Amaya La Jolla, Bertrand at Mister A’s, Blue Ribbon Rustic Kitchen, Farm House Café, Fogo de Chao, Nine-Ten, Terra Bistro, The Marine Room, Whisknladle.
Rancho Valencia cocktails
All Things Agave: A Craft Cocktail Soiree
@ Rancho Valencia
WHEN: Sept. 19, 6-9PM
WHERE: The Pony Room, 5921 Valencia Circle,
Rancho Santa Fe, 858-759-6246
COST: $79
What is this about? Honestly? It’s just a good excuse to drink agave in four forms (tequila, mescal, bacanora, sotol) and check out the fantastic redesign of Rancho Valencia. The Pony Room (the cocktail lounge) may not have a multimillion-dollar Damien Hirst painting, but I prefer its Ron Burgundy-equestrian vibe. There will be some flamenco dishes, a pairing for each spirit, and Forteleza owner Guillermo Sauza will be on hand.
9th Annual Chef Showdown @ NTC Promenade
WHEN: Sept. 26, 6-9PM
WHERE: NTC Promenade, 2640 Historic Decatur Rd., 858.272.5777
COST: $125
Yet another gathering of talented chefs and adult beverage specialists in an open-air courtyard to compete and raise money for a great cause. These happen every week it seems, but Chef Showdown is one of the biggies, with some of the biggest talent including Anthony Sinsay (Herringbone), Joe Magnanelli (Cucina Urbana), Amy DiBiase (Baleen), etc. The chefs will pair into two teams and cook their butts off for a panel of judges. It’ll be narrated Sam The Cooking Guy (the guy is hilarious in a sarcastic, did-he-just-insul-me way) and killer Tijuana-San Diego-Food Network chef, Marcella Valladolid. Proceeds will benefit CCS’ domestic violence prevention and intervention programs and services.
