The 2011 festival culminates this weekend, but activities throughout the week also feature a high-profile lineup of celebrity chefs, winemakers and culinary personalities. The best talent in the food and wine industry will headline the festival’s cooking and wine tasting classes this year.

This year’s lineup includes countless James Beard Foundation award-winners as well as winners of The Next Food Network Star, The Hearty Boys and former contestants on Bravo TV’s Top Chef. Local favorites Chef Bernard Guillas, Executive Chef of The Marine Room and Chef Denise Roa, Executive Chef of Rancho La Puerta will also be attending.“Wine and food enthusiasts can expect a world-class epicurean experience at this year’s 8th annual festival,” said Michelle Metter, the Festival’s co-producer.  “This year’s star-studded lineup of celebrity chefs touches on every end of the culinary spectrum, from James Beard and Michelin Star award-winning chefs to television personalities from Top Chef and The Next Food Network Star. Additionally, this year we are also pleased to announce the Bocuse d’Or Culinary Council Dinner, featuring four celebrated American chefs from around the country.”

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy tasting seminars and discussions from award-winning winemakers, sommeliers and master sommeliers.

Many of these celebrity chefs, winemakers, and culinary personalities will be present at the Grand Tasting Event held on Saturday, November 20. Seen by many as one of the highlights of the festival, The Grand Tasting features 170 wineries, 70 of San Diego’s top fine dining restaurants, 30 gourmet food companies, the lively “Chef of the Fest” competition, live entertainment, and more. Tickets start at $125 and are a great deal for such an amazing array of gourmet food and high end wines.

A complete schedule of events and online ticketing is available at www.worldofwineevents.com.

The event benefits the American Institute of Wine & Food’s culinary and enology arts scholarship program.

Not only is Napa Valley a wonderful destination for wine and food lovers alike, it is a perfect place to experience the changing season without the need to pull out your snow gear.

This November Napa Valley welcomes a great wine tasting event called Flavor! Napa Valley where the best of America’s wine and food capital will be showcased. If you’re looking for a pre-holiday getaway and a chance to relax with that special someone, book your travel arrangements now. The event is something that cannot be missed.

Taking place November 17 – 20, 2011, this four-day culinary exploration of tastings, cooking demos, dinners, and more.

Click here to view the embedded video.

One of the weekend highlights includes an event called “The Appellation Trail: Tasting Napa Valley” which is being hosted on Friday evening, November 18th, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the historic Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Greystone in St. Helena, Napa Valley.

More than 120 wineries will offer their wines. Some of the best names in wine making will be there including Beringer Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars, Chiarello Family Vineyards, Crocker & Starr Wines, Etude, Grgich Hills Estate, The Hess Collection Winery, Michael Mondavi Family Estate, Mumm Napa Valley, Robert Mondavi Winery, St. Clement, St. Supéry Estate Vineyards, Silver Oak Cellars, Staglin Family Vineyard, Stags’ Leap Winery, and William Hill Estate.

In addition to the most sought after wines, guests will be treated to delectable treats from over thirty of Napa Valley’s best restaurants and artisanal food purveyors, including Ad Hoc, La Toque, Morimoto Napa, and The Restaurant at Meadowood.

Not only are the best brands and boutiques represented at this fantastic event, but many local and national food celebrities will be in attendance. Food Network chef, Restauranteur of the Year and local resident Tyler Florence will be there along with Richard Blais, the winner of “Top Chef All-Stars.” They will be doing demonstrations around a live fire grill where attendees can watch and enjoy the dishes prepared.

Local chef Dave Cruz from Thomas Keller’s Ad Hoc Restaurant in Yountville says that this event is going to be “an extraordinary way to experience the foods that are born from the same soils that produce the Napa Valley wines known around the world.”

Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine and food destination, and this event is something that any food or wine connoisseur will enjoy. The event makes a perfect destination to get away before the holiday madness begins. Tickets for “The Appellation Trail: Tasting Napa Valley” are only $150, and can be purchased online at www.FlavorNapaValley.com. Net proceeds from the event support programs and scholarships at The Culinary Institute of America’s Greystone Campus in St. Helena.

Make it a complete weekend of food festivities by heading to www.flavornapavalley.com to find other events and local destinations to check out.

In honor of the premiere of the second season of Food Network’s “The Great Food Truck Race”, the good chefs at Devilicious are offering a free lunch to the first 100 lunch-goers at noon on Friday, Aug. 19th.  Yes, they will be offering some of their favorite delectables – lobster grilled cheese, fried mac-and-cheese balls with bacon and their strawberry cheesecake sandwich -at no charge to 100 lucky patrons.

But wait! Before you go gallivanting out the door, you may want to know where this feeding frenzy will take place. The only detail we have been given so far is that they will be serving somewhere in San Diego.  To hone in on the exact final location, hungry hopefuls should follow Food Network’s Facebook and Twitter page, as they will be posting location clues throughout the week. And if you still can’t get it, don’t fret -the final location will be tweeted on Friday at 11 a.m., giving you a full hour to beat the rush.

“The Great Food Truck Race” airs on Food Network Sundays at 10 p.m.  Watch San Diego’s own Devilicious battle against seven other food truck competitors in a nationwide race to win the grand prize of $100,000.

For Devilicious’ service schedule and/or menu, please visit: http://deviliciousfoodtruck.com or follow them on Facebook.

Image courtesy of foodnetwork.com

Just saying those words incites salivary glands to moisten with anticipation. Stomachs growl in hope that at least one bite of cheesecake will find its way down the esophagus. And the sweet tooth – well, on second thought, you might not want to alert the sweet tooth about the cheesecake. Who knows what it might do if it gets the hankering for some sweets.

Cheesecake lovers rejoice; Saturday July 30 is National Cheesecake Day. In celebration of its namesake, The Cheesecake Factory is offering dine-in guests “Any Slice at Half Price.” Be warned, with more than 30 flavors from which to choose eating only one slice might not be an option.

Not only will The Cheesecake Factory provide patrons with the opportunity to indulge on half-priced cheesecake, but those who choose to take part in this delicious holiday could also be among the first to try The Cheesecake Factory’s newest flavor: Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake.

Uh oh, the sweet tooth just woke up.

Featuring silky smooth Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake between layers of moist chocolate cake and ganache, finished with creamy chocolate frosting and chocolate chips, the newest flavor could quickly become a best-seller.

Taking part in The Cheesecake Factory’s celebration of this unofficial national food holiday is not the only way to enjoy a treat that has been around since the era of the ancient Greeks. In fact, in North America alone seven different styles of cheesecake exist, including the uber-popular New York and Philadelphia styles, not to mention the sour cream or lactose-free varieties.

Tradition cheesecake consists of a topping made of soft, fresh cheese, usually on a crust or base made from biscuit pastry or sponge cake. New York-style utilizes a heavy cream and the cheesecake is usually made from cream cheese, eggs and egg yolk to add a richness and smooth consistency. Philadelphia-style, on the other hand, is much creamier and lighter in texture but often richer in flavor.

While most varieties of cheesecake in the United States and Canada use cream cheese, Italy, Germany and Poland each have different, distinct ways to make cheesecake with ricotta cheese, in Italy, and quark cheese in Germany and Poland. Other varieties of cheesecake include Dutch/Belgian-style, Asian-style, which is considerably less sweet than its counterparts, Greek-style, which is called Tiropita, and Swedish-style, called ostkaka.

It is understandable that the ultimate cheesecake fan might not be satisfied just with simple cheesecake. That is why many different ways to enjoy the cheesecake flavor exist. One of the new favorites is the cheesecake martini. Girlydrinks.com lists 16 different cheesecake cocktails, including the FIVE Cheesecake, Apple Cobbler Cheesecake and Key Lime Pie Cheesecake martinis.

In 2007, InStyle magazine listed the Raspberry Cheesecake Martini as one of actor George Clooney’s favorite cocktails.

Whether you choose to celebrate National Cheesecake Day by eating out at The Cheesecake Factory, making your own home-made variety or imbibing a delicious cheesecake beverage, one thing is certain: cheesecake, while delicious, is loaded with fattening ingredients..

No, that should not dissuade you from celebrating on Saturday, but it should urge you to work out on Sunday. According to a CBSNews.com article, a 150 lb. person who eats a 411-calorie slice would have to do 61 minutes of strength training, 52 minutes of biking or elliptical training, 121 minutes of cleaning, or 91 minutes of gardening.

See, not only are there many ways to enjoy eating cheesecake there are also many ways to enjoy shedding the calories after eating cheesecake.

Okay, enough talk already, it’s time to celebrate.

Photos courtesy of The Cheesecake Factory and Zingyyellow via Flickr.

Are you fan of Beer & Sake? If you answered yes, then you don’t want to miss out on the 9th Annual Beer & Sake Festival on Thursday, June 23, 2011 at the San Diego Marriott in Del Mar.

Hosted by The Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana (JSSDT), The Beer & Sake Festival will have over 100 different drinks from 22 Beer & Sake companies along with 13 restaurants providing delicious appetizers.  The event will showcase imported Japanese beers and local microbrews, different styles and quality levels of sake. In addition, some of San Diego’s most talented chefs will be providing delicious appetizers!

Participating restaurants will also be facing off in a, “Best Appetizer” contest. You’ll get to taste the culinary creations from: Harrah’s, The Marine Room, Shimbashi Izakaya, Harney Sushi, Opera, Top of the Market, Sear Sucker, Alchemy, Sea Rocket Bistro and more.  Some of the participating breweries are Lightning Brewery, Sapporo, Asahi Beer U.S.A., Inc, Fontana Trader LLC, Trumer Pilsner and Kirn,

Beer, Sake, and appetizers, what more can you ask for? What about a live performance from the San Diego Taiko. Taiko means “drum” in Japanese and performances can last between 5 and 25 minutes. The community group is very passionate about performing Japanese Taioko drumming for the San Diego community. If you want to take a sneak peak click on the link.

All proceeds support JSSDT’s educational programs that build bridges between the people of Japan and the San Diego/Tijuana region, including language competitions, internships, educational exchanges, and sports exchanges.

Admission is $40 for JSSDT members and $60 for non-members. Tickets may be purchased here.

For more information check out their facebook page.

To win tickets to the Beer & Sake Festival fill out the form below. Enter by Monday, June 20th at midnight. Winners will be announced Tuesday. Good luck!

Mom (or grandma, aunt, sister) has loved you, cared for you, cooked for you and stayed up with you while you were sick.  Make sure your Mother’s Day card is filled with (or attached to) something awesome.

Whether your mom is a diva not-so-in-disguise, a culinary genius compulsively seeking the next new kitchen gadget or recipe, or just a woman looking for some good ole relaxation, there is a perfect gift out there for her.

The Fashionista Mom

Of course we want to shower Mom in Lanvin and D&G, but if those are a bit out of your price range, look no further than these great online deals.  Choose from Must-Have looks from Ann Taylor that will make your mom the envy of the neighborhood or bestow a new handbag that sets off her spring wardrobe. This Michael tote by Michael Kors is great for fitting everything from makeup to snack packs.

The Culinary Fanatic

In lieu of flowers, get Mom a beautiful and edible bouquet from Edible Arrangements.  Their wide variety of arrangements can fit any budget and please everyone from a small family to a large gathering.  If your mom loves cooking up her own family recipes, you could get her wonderful professional cookware from the Giada De Laurentiis for Target collection.  Featuring classic cooking tools, there are also a number of recipe ideas, including Baked Gnocchi, that will make your mouth water.

Busy Business Woman

Or is your mom a busy business woman just in need of a day off?

Get her a relaxing massage from The Knot Stop in Hillcrest. They are offering a $55 special for a one-hour Swedish massage or visit Zen Spa in Carmel Mountain Ranch for a personalized package deal.

Zen Spa is offering three personalized mix and match packages for Mom this year.  You can choose your package to include a: Customized Full Body Massage, Rejuvenating facial, Hot Stone Massage, Aromatherapy, Prenatal Massage, Reflexology Foot Massage and/or Waxing Services.

Another ticket on the road to relaxation:  food.  Take Mom out to brunch to The Cottage in La Jolla—famed for their take on eggs benedict.  For something less sophisticated and more laid back, try Baja Betty’s in Hillcrest.  They have endless margaritas and Mexican food and an outdoor patio to enjoy a sunny May day.

Of course, not every mom falls into one of these distinct categories.  She can be a mix of all of these things and more so be limitless and surprising.  All Mom really wants is to spend some quality time with one of her favorites.

Photos by Karen Mardahl via Flickr and Grand Velas Resort via Flickr.

According to their Climate Strategy Report developed in 2004, the Seattle-based company is dedicated to shrink their environmental footprint by “conserving energy and water, reducing the waste associated with [their] cups, increasing recycling and incorporating green design into [their] stores.”

In light of this, Starbucks recently announced a pilot program to recycle its disposable cups, beginning with Vancouver, B.C. but ultimately reducing its waste worldwide.  The program is set to introduce mutli-receptable recycling bins in stores, indicating where to discard cups, lids and sleeves.

“Our target is that by 2015 we have recycling available for our customers in all of our stores worldwide where we control waste collection and to serve 25 percent of beverages in reusable cups,” said Jim Hanna, director  of environmental impact for Starbucks.

Starbucks dispenses roughly 4 billion paper cups every year across the globe.  Currently, only 5 percent of Starbucks stores recycle cups, most of which are in cities like Seattle where it is mandated by law.  Starbucks has tried to market reusable mugs and tumblers, offering a 10-cent discount on coffee when customers bring in their own cup.  Despite this efforts, a meager 1.5 percent of Starbucks beverages are actually served in reusables.

But Starbucks is still fighting hard to preserve it’s environmentally-friendly image.  That is why, in honor of Earth Day today, Starbucks is providing eco-conscious customers with FREE hot or iced coffee, as long as you supply your own reusable mug.  It may be one small step for you, but it is one giant leap for Starbucks.

Image by Ivan Martinez via GoogleImages

Image Starbucks, Baker Street to © Copyright Gary Rogers via GoogleImages and Creative Commons

For over three decades, Ben & Jerry’s have been thanking their devoted fans with a day of free ice cream. On this magical day, go to any Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop to enjoy one free scoop of any of their delicious, creamy concoctions. Revisit an old favorite or try something new! Click here to find the nearest Scoop Shop.

Ben & Jerry’s website list some of their new flavors:

• Late Night Snack: Inspired by Late Night with Jimmy Fallon – Fair Trade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with a Salty Caramel Swirl & Fudge Covered Potato Chip Clusters (the fudge uses Fair Trade cocoa, too!)
• Bonnaroo Buzz: – Light Coffee & Malt ice creams with Whiskey Caramel swirls & English Toffee pieces. This flavor, inspired by the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, is back by popular demand in Scoop Shops and now available in pints!
• Stephen Colbert’s AmeriCone Dream: Vanilla ice cream with fudge covered waffle cone pieces & a caramel swirl. A long time pint favorite, so popular we made it a scoop shop flavor for the first time this year!
• Clusterfluff: Peanut Butter Ice Cream with Caramel Cluster Pieces, Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Swirls

The Horton Plaza Ben & Jerry’s, wanted to something extra special to celebrate this day and decided to team up with the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA to bring you not only free ice cream, but the opportunity to adopt a pet and donate toward the cause.

The San Diego Humane Society has been servicing San Diego for 130 years, educating the public about animal rights, animal cruelty and offering adoption and shelter services as well. They are a totally private, non-profit organization and rely completely on the donations and financial support of the community.

The Horton Plaza event will run today from noon to 8 pm at Horton Plaza on level 4, near the United Artist Theaters, with the mobile adoptions on site from noon to 5 pm.

This noon to 4pm demonstration will feature 3 renowned chefs and a mixologist who will instruct the audience on preparing and cooking  everything from cocktails to holiday appetizers as well as the main entrée and dessert.

In addition to the foodie lesson, each guest will be able to sample the dishes while they watch and learn and take home a swanky “swag bag.”

Ranch and Coast’s “Best Bartender” Mike Yen from Nine-Ten La Jolla (who is known for the innovative ways of using alcohol,  like his fully alcoholic s’mores and jelly coke bottles) will open up the event by making drinks that will surely get a party started.

“I’m one of the only –if not the only– molecular mixologists in San Diego,” says Yen, who uses outside the box concepts to create truly unique cocktails. He says he will be creating drinks with one of the seasons easy to find ingredients: cranberries.

“Molecular mixology takes techniques from chemistry to make drinks,” Yen explained. “At the event I’ll be teaching how to make a Cosmo Jello Shot as well as a really special  Washington Apple shot that’s served in an edible sphere.” He’ll also be showing the audience how to create homemade tonic as a tribute to the farm-to-table movement that’s making waves in San Diego.

Chef Guiseppe Ciuffa of Guiseppe Restaurants and Fine Catering will bring his Italian-root culinary expertise and reveal the makings of simple yet tasty appetizers and the main entrée will be taught by Chefs JR Cifrese and Ed Gallagher. Cirfese and Gallagher are the big time chefs of “Coast 2 Coast” cuisine that you may recognize from features on Disney, CNBC and The Food Network.

And we can’t forget dessert, which will be presented by Ro Zinniger, a confectionery artist and instructor and the owner of Ro Zs Sweet Art Studio.  Zinniger explains, “my recipes and presentations are unusual and unexpected. I often use unique ingredients or fill cupcakes with different things.”  She is known for using Fondarific Fondant, which is a fondant that actually tastes good. She uses it as a filling for cakes, dips it in chocolate, and uses it in many unique ways. She’ll be showing the audience some of these these tricks at the event this weekend, however she would not divulge exactly what she’ll be presenting. “I want to keep it a surprise,” she told us.

Only 150 tickets are being sold to this intimate event at $75 per person and group discounts are available by calling 619-595-0300.  The San Diego Entertainer is proud to be giving away a free set of tickets to the event so sign up below before noon on Thursday Nov. 11 for your chance to win!

For more information and to buy tickets online, visit Anthology’s website

Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, The Gourmet Experience will feature 250 exhibitors of food and luxury lifestyle products geared toward those with refined tastes and gourmet palettes.  The Gourmet Experience is a good way for Southern Californians to look at top-of-the-line cookware and luxury products for home entertaining, and get a taste of the ‘gourmet lifestyle.’

You’ll have the opportunity to taste the newest gourmet foods luxury wines, spirits and craft beers. Head to the Gourmet in Action stage to see San Diego’s top celebrity chefs demonstrate using products found at the expo.  Showing the expo will have something for everyone some of the celebrity chefs include: Chef Bernard Guillas of The Marine Room, Chef Elaine Ardizzone of Sweet Cheeks Baking Co. and World Champion Flair Bartender Hayden Wood along with many more.

Those of legal age will also invited into the ‘That’s the Spirit’ Beer and Wine Pavilion where they will be able to  taste and explore fine wines, craft beer and spirits produced by award-winning producers.

A single-day ticket for The Gourmet Experience will cost $25 in advance or $30 at the door and “The Weekend Gourmet” pass can be purchased from $40 in advance and $45 at the door. Children 12 and under enter free.  Remember to register with us for your free tickets. Each winner will receive 2 passes.

For more information about The Gourmet Experience and a full list of the brands and celebrity chefs attending visit http://www.thegourmetexpo.com/. For a line up of what you should see, download the Gourmet Experience guide here.

To claim your chance at winning free tickets sign up below by the Thursday night at midnight. The winners will be notified by email Friday morning by 11 a.m.

This event is San Diego’s oldest and largest craft beer festival and the best part is all proceeds are used locally to find a cure for cancer and to help with cancer patient treatment services.

This non profit organization began with several professionals wanting to raise money for cancer research. Two years into the beer fest, the organization, now known as SDPAC (San Diego Professionals Against Cancer), became a non profit organization and was able to gain great recognition in San Diego County.

This year’s event was located in downtown San Diego on B Street and Columbia. It was a great turn out and people seemed to be enjoying themselves. They were able to get 10 4oz. tasters to sample some of their favorite beers while listening to live music on two separate stages. There were 65 breweries with a selection of 120 different beers to sample. And of course, there was a wonderful food court to enjoy a nice bite to eat.

Volunteer came out in full force to help with the event and many local breweries and restaurants were courteous with donations.  Thanks to everyone’s support the SDPAC has been able to donate close to $500,000. In addition to helping people with cancer and helping their families, the SDPAC has made large donations over the years to local organizations such as the Children’s Hospital, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, American Cancer Society and San Diego Hospice.

Please visit the beer festival website for more information http://www.sdbeerfest.org or join them on Facebook  http://www.facebook.com/pages/San-Diego-Festival-of-Beer/.

Bust out the forks and knives and get those appetites ready San Diegans, Restaurant Week is almost upon us again. The gut-busting, wallet-loving affair takes place for the 7^th year in a row this September 19-24. For those who aren’t sure what restaurant week is (and for those of you who are tired of asking your friends and receiving only an excited “it’s awesome!” in response), here’s a little debriefing: Restaurant Week is a twice-annual event held in San Diego, originally launched with the intention of highlighting the delicious and varied cuisine available in the city while defining the area as a dining hotspot.

More than 180 of San Diego’s most famous (and famously delicious) restaurants offer three-course fixed price meals that will only cost you 20, 30, or 40 dollars a person—no tickets, no passes, no coupons, and no promotional codes required. And, the best part is, there are no limits either: you can dine at as many participating restaurants as your heart desires and your stomach can handle during the week.

So if there’s a restaurant that you’ve always wanted to take that hot date to, but your bank account just wasn’t having it, now’s the time—impress the lucky lady or man, try a new dining experience, and tantalize your taste buds with everything San Diego has to offer, from savory Indian cuisine to hearty steak and everything in between.

Reservations aren’t required, but they are recommended—amazing food at low prices tends to fill empty seats up, fast! For more information on participating restaurants and Restaurant Week in general, visit the official site at http://www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com/index.php. Happy dining!

If you can’t choose, let us decide! The Entertainer’s restaurant picks include:
Best Steak: Ruths Chris Steak House
Best Seafood: Blue Point Coastal Cuisine
Asian Fusion:  Kemo Sabe
French:  The French Gourmet
Italian: ToasT Enoteca & Cucina
California Cuisine: Bertrand at Mister A’s

Photo from AMagill via flickr

Peggy Evans, Executive Director of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association says, “Our members are extremely passionate about what they do, and have chosen to make wine in Temecula Valley because they recognize that it is really an ideal place to grow winegrapes.”

The area is a beautiful paradise, consisting of a sprawling 35,000 acres of rolling hills and vineyards, with about 30 family owned wineries dotting the landscape. Overseen by the non-profit Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, whose mission is to “promote the making and growing of quality wine and winegrapes”, the region produces some of the most prized varieties of wines in the world—making the Wine and Culinary Showcase an event that you don’t want to miss.

Peggy Evans explains that one of the best things about Temecula is that “it’s one of the only wine regions in California that is easy to get to from major metropolitan areas. You can get here from San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County or Palm Springs in about an hour.” So if you live down south, up north, or anywhere in between, you have no excuse. Temecula is closer than you think. Head to Temecula Valley Wine and Culinary Showcase for a taste of great wine, great food, and have a fantastic time.

Evans says, “The Association wanted to offer locals and visitors to the area a chance to really experience the best of wine country in one location. Our other annual events let people visit the individual wineries at their leisure with a tasting passport; but until now, we haven’t pulled all of our wine country restaurants, wineries and winemakers together for a big showcase event like this. We just want to show people a really good time!”

The festivities will begin with a Winemaker’s Roundtable, filmed and broadcasted live from the event between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Moderator Meredith May from The Tasting Panel magazine will interview Temecula Valley Winemakers, both the veterans and the rookies, in a panel discussion of the area’s winemaking history and the direction the future will bring for Southern California’s most prestigious winemaking region. Guests are invited to watch and listen as the discussion ensues and the stunning variety and rich past of the area’s winemaking processes are revealed.

Following the roundtable will be a champagne reception from 6:30-7:00 p.m., during which guests will check into the event and mingle with one another, after which the real festivities begin: the Wine and Culinary Showcase features a walk-around tasting from 7:30-9:00 p.m., complete with wine and food tasting from more than a dozen restaurants and 30 wineries, with more than 120 varieties of wine for guests to sample. Experience a range of beautiful flavors, from wines that are refreshingly light and flowery to those that leave a deep bloom of taste resonating on your palate long after your last sip has come and gone.

Tickets are available for $65 per person, and the event takes place at the picturesque Monte de Oro Winery in Temecula, CA. So if you love good wine and want to be around people who know it best, head over to Temecula Valley and enjoy a festive night of wine and food next Friday, September 17th.

Photo from Entertianer Photographer AKAPhotoGirl
Logo from Temecula Vally Wine Growers Association

This year, about 75 breweries and 150 craft beers are featured, in addition to food and munchies for sale, wine by the glass, and music performed on two live stages by the bands Midnight Jogger, Len Rainey & the Midnight Players, Behind the Wagon, and Midnight Rivals. Those visiting from out of town can stay at the W Hotel for a discounted price and ticket package that amounts to $175 for a one night stay and two day tickets to the Festival.

Regular tickets are available for $30 for advanced tickets and $40 for tickets at the door, which includes admission into the event, 10 4 oz beer tastes and souvenir tasting mugs for the first 3,000 attendees. The event is only open to those who are 21 and over, and discounts are available for designated drivers.

So if you’re looking for good food, good company, and a taste of something that is uniquely and essentially San Diego, make your way over to the San Diego Festival of Beer this Friday, sponsored by Sophie 103.7, KYXY 96.5 and Five Star Parking, and have yourself an amazing time.

Photo from cyrusbulsara via flickr

This Weekend in Music & Concerts

As always, San Diego is playing host to a multitude of acclaimed music artists at the many wonderful local venues. Pamper your eardrums at the David Gray & Ray LaMontagne show at Harrah’s Rincon (Sat 7pm) or with the final show in the San Diego Symphony’s Summer Pops Concert series, the 1812 Tchaikovsky Spectacular! Witness 15-year-old violin phenom Chad Hoopes join the orchestra as a special guest star to end a wonderful summer of wonderful music (Fri-Sun 7:30pm). Drop by Copley Symphony Hall to see Grammy award-winning artist Melissa Etheridge (Fri 7:30pm).

Fellow Grammy winners Green Day visit Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre with alternative rockers AFI (Thurs 7pm) as punk rock takes over San Diego. The Dickies, one of the first punk rock bands to surface from Los Angeles, will be pumping up 4^th & B (Fri 8pm). Then, Jersey boys Titus Andronicus take the stage alongside Philly’s Free Energy at Belly Up Tavern (Sun 8pm).

Catch the concerts at the Del Mar Fairgrounds this weekend starting with the 4 O’ Clock Fridays show featuring The English Beat, a ska revival band England (Fri 4pm). On Saturday, the famously bearded blues band ZZ Top will rock the infield stage (Sat 6pm). Both events are free with racetrack admission.

Take advantage of even more free music events at the Coronado Ferry Landing all weekend. Providing the aural entertainment for this weekend are The Coronado Big Band (Sat 1-3pm), The Stilettos (Sun 2-5pm), and Cool Fever (Mon 1-4pm). So pack a picnic, grab the loved ones, and head over to Coronado to enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather!

This Weekend in Arts

Fine arts flourish in San Diego this weekend with several amazing art shows and festivals to enjoy. The San Diego Museum of Art presents their Summer Salon Series (Thurs 5-9pm) featuring several artists including Matthew Hebert and Katherine Sweetman.

All weekend long enjoy events for the Art San Diego Contemporary Art Fair (Sept. 2-5) which will be held at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. Open Fair Days are open to everyone Fri-Sun $15 general admission and $10 students. Special events are separate such as The San Diego Fine Arts Society’s First Annual SDFAS Awards tonight in the Sapphire Ballroom (Thurs 8pm) or The Young Collectors Night + Wine 2.0 (Sat 6pm). There is also a free Sight & Sound Bayfront Concert featuring rockers Republic of Letters and Vinyl Film. Check out the ASD site for the full schedule and more details.

This Weekend in Sports

Head to the races at the Del Mar Fairgrounds! Wear pink on Saturday and get free admission to the stretch run for Pink Day at the Races to raise awareness for breast cancer. Or check out some pint-sized competitors at the Weiner Dog Nationals on Monday.

Are you ready for some some football?! Well, with school now in session, that also means football season! San Diego State starts of with an opening game against Nicholls State at Qualcomm Stadium (Sat 5pm). Baseball season is still upon us, so support the San Diego Padres at Petco Park as they suit up against the Colorado Rockies (Fri-Sun) and the Los Angeles Dodgers (Mon).

The Festival of Sail kicks off today at the San Diego Maritime Museum waterfront! The festival lasts through the extended weekend with daily events including live entertainment, tall ship cannon battles, and boat rides. So bring the kids and head bayside! Spend your day on the water by indulging in a Labor Day BBQ Lunch Cruise with Hornblower (Mon 10:30am).

There are parties galore as several venues take advantage of the amazing San Diego weather and extended weekend. Spend your days dacing on the streets or lounging poolside alongside bikini-clad babes and able-bodied bros. Day partying and night life collide at the WET Pool Party with Miguel Migs & Fred Everything at Se Hotel (Sat 1pm-2am) or Fortune’s Labor Day Pool Party at Kin Oasis Pool Lounge (Sun 12pm) . Get down on Labor Day at the Stingaree Summer Breeze Labor Day Party (Sun 9pm) or the House of Blues Labor Day Block Party (Sun 9pm).

The Hard Rock joins in on the Labor Day fun by hosting an event each day. The fun starts off Thursday night with the Jump Smokers Album Release Party at 207 Nightclub. Then, Flo Rida takes the 207 stage the next night, performing club-banging hits like “Right Round” and the latest “Club Can’t Handle Me.” More events include appearances by Brent Bartel, Theron, Chris Cutz, and closes out with the Special Intervention Pool Party with Paul Oakenfold at Float on Monday.

So whether you are sporting a diaper, a cocktail dress, or a swimsuit, there is plenty of entertainment and fun to be had in the San Diego area this holiday weekend.

Take a Peek into Next Week:

-         Thurs 9/9 — Sheryl Crow at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay
-         Fri 9/10 — 16th Annual SD Beer Fest in Downtown San Diego (Columbia & B St.)
-         Sat 9/11 — The Jazz 88 Ocean Beach Music & Arts Festival
-         Sun 9/12 — 20th Annual San Diego Music Awards at Humphrey’s By the Bay

Photos courtesy of Whistling in the Dark, musicisentropy, Alexandre Cardoso, Port of San Diego, billypoonphotos, Bill Kuffrey, and Beyond The Barricade Photography via Flickr.

Fro-yo lovers who are 18 and over, can participate in the Second Annual Yogurt Eating contest on Monday, Aug. 28 presented by Red Cup Yogurt, 301 Mission Ave., Suite #130, Oceanside.

The prizes are: First Place, $175.00; Second Place, $75.00; and Third Place, $50.00. The First Place winner will also receive free entry into the 2011 competition. Everyone is a winner at Red Cup; all participants will get to keep their souvenir bucket and an “I Survived the Red Bucket Challenge” T-Shirt.

Red Cup is a self-serve fro-yogurt shop that typically offers more than 10 flavors and 50+ toppings that you prepare yourself by filling a cup, weighing and then paying for what you have created.

The competition will “be based on time of completion; there are 30 minutes to complete 8 pounds (about 1 gallon) of yogurt.”

The participant with the shortest time will be awarded First Place and so on and so forth,” according to Shop Manager Cynthia M. Sneller.

So, bring an empty stomach and a T-shirt you don’t care about since you’ll be eating quickly. Sneller, says participants will also be “given regulation Red Cup spoons and straws,” to compete in the contest.

She adds that the flavors for the event will be: Chocolate, Blueberry Lemonade, Cherry Tart, Chocolate covered Cherries, Vanilla, Peach Tart, and Peaches N’ Cream, Plain Tart, Blueberry (No sugar added), Lemonade, Cheesecake and Red Velvet Cake.

You can save yourself $10.00 if you register before the big event and if you don’t win, you’ve got to bust out $39.00.

Call (760) 637-2189 for more information.

Photo courtesy of  stu_spivack via flickr

The opulent South Coast Winery, located in Temecula, was voted “Best Winery in California” for the second consecutive year. They are holding this event May 14th and 15th and all proceeds are being donated to Shriners Hospital for Children. Every penny that is raised will go towards medical care for children 18 years and younger at no charge to patient or family.

Stephanie Mills will be head lining this event on May 14th with an appearance from Najee. Stephanie Mills is a musical theatre icon and Grammy award winning song stylist with more than a dozen albums to her credit. With her new album Breathless, guests will enjoy her voice that proves to be powerful, passionate and strong while sticking to her signature R&B sound. The gates will open at 5:30p for this event and show starts at 7:30p.

May 15th will be hosting one of country music’s greatest successes, Clint Black. Named Billboard magazine’s Most-Played Country radio artist of 1994, his unmistakable melodies and unforgettable voice will indeed, change your “State of Mind.” This dedicated artist has carved out a special individualistic body of hits and has shown to hold his own when performing with such legends as Merle Haggard and Roy Rogers. The gates will open at 5p for this event and the show starts at 8:00p.

Tickets can be purchased at rhythmonthevine.org or call 213-368-3378. Food and wine will be available for purchase.

Crawfish, Gator, and Friends

Gator by the Bay is celebrating their 9th annual festival this year at Spanish Landing Park on May 7, 8, and 9, 2010. On Friday, they’re having a special “Gator by Night” event, which will feature a Blues Supper Club around the Bourbon Street Stage with Louisiana cuisine dinner and dancing. Gator by the Bay is the largest Zydeco and Cajun festival on the West Coast, continually celebrating the rich and unique culture and style of Louisiana. This year they’ve got some exciting events planned: 25 bands on five different stages, free dance lessons, and 8,000 lbs of crawfish straight from Louisiana!

The 3-day food and music festival creates an authentic and cultural experience with Zydeco, Cajun, Blues, jazz, country, and swing bands, as well as some bona fide Creole cuisine. More than 10,000 are expected to attend, all excited for the dancing, New Orleans- style costume parades, and various kids’ activities.

Rub Board

Around the time when rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock n’ roll began flooding the radios and night clubs, Creoles in Louisiana introduced the rub board, originally created from tin roofing and barn siding materials, to add that ‘chank-a-chank’ sound to the Cajun instrumentation. The boogie-inducing melodies and syncopated beats are now iconic to Zydeco music, and hollering “ah-yeeeee!” is nothing out of the ordinary while dancing to the energetic sounds.

A major focus of Gator by the Bay is to educate and reach out to teach about Louisiana’s colorful history and culture. This year’s festival will offer Cajun and Creole heritage and music workshops, Zydeco rub-board workshops, harmonica workshops, accordion history lessons, Louisiana fiddle workshops, and much more.

Ready to eat mudbugs

The mouth-watering eats are reason enough to attend this year’s festival. Cross-country vendors are making the trip over to provide guests with delectable cooking including boudin sausage, catfish, barbecue, crawfish etouffee, Po’ Boy sandwiches, seafood gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, boiled peanuts, sweet potato pie, and homemade ice cream. Culinary professionals will also demonstrate delicious Creole recipes such as how to make Cajun Fire Pot, traditional King Cake, and Pan-Fried oysters. This is definitely one weekend you’ll want to ignore the diets and taste-test everything in sight.

“Gator By Night” Supper Club on Friday: 3:30 – 10:30 pm
Sat & Sun: 10:30 am – 8 pm
Spanish Landing Park
North Harbor Drive, San Diego- across from the airport
General Admission: $20 on Friday, $25 on Saturday and Sunday
Military $15 with ID
17 and under: FREE with an adult
Parking is available on Harbor Drive at designated lots – FREE shuttle.

For a complete band line-up and schedule, visit www.gatorbythebay.com.

The Taste of Hillcrest is in it’s 10th year and will be returning this Saturday, April 17^th. Get ready to whet your appetite, San Diego!  In just one afternoon, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious foods from over 40 restaurants in the trendy town of Hillcrest. Many of the top chefs in San Diego have prepared their best dishes especially for this event. The fun begins at noon and lasts until 4:00PM.

Besides getting to experience amazing foods, Taste of Hillcrest is also a great opportunity to visit your favorite restaurants while discovering new dining hotspots. This is a self-guided event so you can visit any of the eateries you wish at any pace you’re comfortable with. Additionally, after enjoying the scrumptious food you can stroll over to the 2^nd Annual Sidewalk Sale. Over a dozen of the Hillcrest shops will be offering participants a variety of exclusive discounts and promotions.

What you can look forward to at this year’s Taste of Hillcrest: sangria and mini sushi at Bamboo Lounge & Ami Sushi, barbecue chicken and Ahi tuna poke at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, organic pizza at Pizza Fusion, and so much more from over 40 eateries…

For those with a sweet tooth, there will of course be plenty of desserts as well. For example, Taste of Italy will be offering the delicious tiramisu.

If you’ve never been you should definitely check it out; you will have a good time just walking around this hip neighborhood. Hillcrest is San Diego’s favorite urban neighborhood and it is known for its unique and diverse selection of restaurants and fashion boutiques. With so many great restaurants people often wish they could try them all, and with Taste of Hillcrest you can finally at the very least sample most of them!

Taste of Hillcrest tickets are just $30.00 if you purchase them in advance, and $35.00 if you buy them the day of the event. Proceeds will benefit the Hillcrest Association. You can buy your tickets here.

If you want to experience and taste something new, or if you love food and simply want to have a good time, come check out Taste of Hillcrest this weekend!

Photo from jimg944 via Flickr

Starbucks: On Thursday, April 15th, Starbucks will be giving out free coffee to anyone who brings in their own mug instead of using paper cups. Help the environment- and your wallet!

Cinnabon: On Thursday, April 15th, Cinnabon is offering a ‘get two free bite-sized cupcakes’ deal betweeen 6-8pm. Their slogan to celebrate the end of tax season?  ‘Tax Day Bites!’ Reward yourself with flavors that include chocolate passion, 24-carrot cake, vanilla bliss, and cinnacake classic.

Maggiemoo’s: On Thursday, April 15th, from 3-7 PM, enjoy one free slice of ice cream pizza. Ice cream with red frosting to look like sauce and white chocolate to look like cheese will be a great treat on tax day.

Jamba Juice: On Thursday, April 15, print a coupon from the Jamba Juice website at  http://www.jambajuice.com/#/home/ to buy one drink and get another free. Offer is valid all day.

Boston Market: From April 15th-18th, Boston Market will be having a buy a plate, get a plate free offer. Print out the coupon here and enjoy!

P.F. Chang’s: On April 15, P.F. Chang’s will be offering tax relief for everyone at all their nationwide locations: 15% off all food items all day long (alcohol excluded).

So hurry and finish those taxes, a feast awaits!

There are many great seafood options in America’s Finest City, but if you’re looking for crab, there are few options that hit the mark in terms of variety.

Like many, you may see Dungeness Crab, King Crab, or Blue Crab on a menu and you order it without hesitation. All are good, but what are the differences between the varieties?  One local restaurant won’t make you choose – you can try them all in one place.

Through the end of April you can savor the varieties of crab all in one place – McCormick & Schmick’s at the Omni Hotel in downtown San Diego.

McCormick & Schmick’s is not just known for its location, location, location. Although the location is nice – just across from Petco Park – you will find much more than a pretty view at this restaurant. For one last month, they are giving guests the opportunity to “Discover America’s Crab” with a special menu showcasing several varieties and preparation styles for crab. With everything from Regional Crab Cakes to King Crab Legs to Lobster Ravioli Topped with Blue Crab on the menu, there’s something to please every palate.

Not sure what type of crab to order?

Dungeness Crab is a tender white meat, known for a delicate, sweet flavor. To try it, order the California Sushi Roll with Dungeness Crab, Sticky Rice, Cucumber and Avocado.

King Crab is known for meaty claws and legs and a full, rich flavor. If you want to give it a try, order the one pound King Crab Leg Dinner with Seasonal Vegetables and Melted Butter.

Blue Crab has a tender texture with a rich, buttery taste. Order the Lobster Ravioli Topped with Blue Crab served in White Wine Cream Sauce with Roasted Tomatoes and Spinach.

In addition to their usual menu, which changes daily based on the fresh catch, the “Discover America’s Crab” menu offers additional dining options to try.

California Sushi Roll
With Dungeness Crab, Sticky Rice, Cucumber and Avocado

Lobster Ravioli Topped with Blue Crab

In White Wine Cream Sauce with Roasted Tomatoes and Spinach

1LB King Crab Leg Dinner

With Seasonal Vegetables and Melted Butter

Regional Crab Cake

Regional/house preparation

Create Your Own Crab Surf & Turf

Pair a 6oz Filet Mignon with your choice of Crab Leg Sections, our Crab Cake or have your Filet Prepared Oscar-Style, topped with Crab, Asparagus and Hollandaise

Seasonal Sides Dish Options

Chocolate-Raspberry Trifle
With Vanilla Custard, Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream

Lobster Ravioli

Although not a place to go for a budget seafood menu or large portions, the quality, variety, and hospitality of the staff surely make up for what the restaurant lacks in affordability. One suggestion for stretching your dollar – go with a friend and spit everything, that way you get to try more without the added cost.

The Lobster Ravioli with Blue Crab was creamy and delicious. Not only will you savor the decadent pasta and white wine cream sauce, but you will get a healthy serving of spinach which was also surprisingly good.

Crab Cake

The Regional Crab Cake was a little different than versions at other restaurants. Instead of lump crab meat, the crab cake was made of more delicate pieces of crab. Although my natural preference for jumbo lumps of crab in my crab cake left me wanting a little more, I was pleasantly surprised by the amazingly crispy exterior that was not too bready. The crisp exterior gave way to a soft delicious center that should be enjoyed slowly.

In addition to the crab, the steamed muscles were unbelievable. The rich buttery sauce is only made better by a side of warm sourdough bread for dipping.

After all the food you may not need desert, but the desert plate that the waiter will bring around will surely tempt you. Each looked more decadent than the next and surely they are all just as good as the seafood.

So, indulge and give in to a night on the town. You’ll be happy you discovered America’s crab at McCormick & Scmicks. You can review their menu and make reservations online at www.McCormickandSchmicks.com.

After a meal loaded with different varieties of crab, you’ll surely have a better feel for your preferences. If you still want to know more, here are a few fun facts about these glorious crustaceans of the sea:

Did you know…

America has more varieties of crab than anywhere else in the world
Dungeness Crab is the official state crustacean of Oregon
King Crab can grow up to six feet long
Blue Crab walk sideways on their middle three pairs of legs

NovaMenco is a family ensemble that is best known for a modern flamenco style that combines jazz and pop into a unique sound. You will also catch some Mediterranean influences in their music which makes for an enjoyable listening experience and a great way to launch the Boathouse’s concert series.

This afternoon event will also feature a special anniversary lunch menu complete with appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and of course those seafood specialties that keep locals coming back for more. Especially tempting selections include the Crab and Shrimp Louie Salad, Boathouse Burger, Crab Cake Sliders and their trademark Boathouse Crab Stack.

The Coronado Boathouse is a treasured San Diego landmark that is steeped in a rich history. Built in 1887, the Boathouse stands three stories tall and features an exterior observatory area at its peak. This building was the first San Diego home for William E. Ritter’s marine research. Ritter is best known as one of the founding fathers of the prestigious Scripps Institute of Oceanography. Ritter conducted his research out of the Boathouse until 1905 when a larger research site became available at the La Jolla Cove.

The Boathouse had its own small fleet of pleasure and fishing boats that were used by guests of the Hotel Del. A Boathouse Keeper used to live in the building and manage the site. A two story “bathhouse” was added to the structure to accommodate the Hotel’s guests who wanted a protected place to “bathe” in the bay.

This architectural gem has also been tied to the yachting community. Both the Coronado Yacht Club as well as the San Diego Yacht Club have called the Boathouse home. It was in 1967 when the Boathouse, newly renovated and relocated closer to shore, was leased to the Chart House.

Today, the Boathouse 1887 is locally-owned and operated and has established itself as one of San Diego’s favorite steak and seafood restaurants serving the residents of Coronado and greater San Diego as well as attracting tourists from near and far.

Marking over 40 years in the restaurant business, the Boathouse 1887 is celebrating with the launch of their Saturday afternoon concert series and special lunch menu. As a way to give back to the community, the Boathouse will be donating some of the proceeds from this event to a local San Diego charity, Stand Up For Kids.

This great organization is focused on helping homeless teens transition from life on the streets. Like so many charities today, Stand Up For Kids has been financially challenged in these tough economic times. Those attending this community event will be able to enjoy live music and fabulous food and know that they are contributing to a great cause.

As an added bonus there will be also be some fun prizes given away at Saturday’s event. If you attend, you could win a weekend stay at the Coronado Beach Resort,which is just steps from the beach. This weekend stay comes complete with a bottle of wine, signature wine glasses, an amenities basket, and of course some decadent chocolates.

There will also be the opportunity to win a one-night stay at the historical landmark mansion and boutique hotel, Glorietta Bay Inn. Enjoy complimentary champagne upon arrival and walking tour tickets to some historical sites on the island.

Another great prize is a one-year membership to Family Gym and Spa. This state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive, specialized, and masterful training programs and boasts gorgeous views of Coronado.

For an enjoyable afternoon, a chance to win fun prizes and a way to show your support for a great charity, make your reservation today at the Coronado Boathouse 1887.

Anniversary & Community Appreciation Event
Saturday, April 3 from 11:30am to 3:30pm

Coronado Boathouse 1887
1701 Strand Way, Coronado
619-435-0155

Here’s a side note for you history and trivia buffs:

The Coronado Boathouse predates the Hotel Del Coronado by one year and was designed by the Reid brothers, who also designed the Hotel Del. Built in the Queen Anne Revival Style that was popular in the late 1800s, it is believed that the architects used this structure as “practice” for their builders who were mostly unskilled laborers before construction began. Luckily for us, that “practice” paid off in what have became two of San Diego’s most recognizable local landmarks – The Hotel Del Coronado and The Coronado Boathouse 1887.

Photo from Fast Forward Event Productions via Flickr.

For those of you looking for a fun and truly unique experience, the extremely popular ‘Wine School’ at The French Gourmet is back in session with the installment titled “The World of Wine” on Sunday, February 21st.

Wine lovers of all levels will enjoy a fun and educational wine experience when one of the top sommeliers in Southern California, Gino Campbell, will present an overview of the world’s wine regions, wine theories, taste and textures, viticulture and viniculture in the creation of great wine, food and wine pairing, blind tasting techniques and more in the latest installment of “The School.”

For so many of us, whether it be at a restaurant or a grocery store, wine selecting can be a bit perplexing. Wine can be a mysterious science we wish we knew more about, as we try to enjoy such an esoteric treasure that is often difficult to truly understand.

Gino Campbell, the current Manager and Master Sommelier at the French Gourmet Restaurant in Pacific Beach, has created The Wine School at the French Gourmet.

Luckily for us Campbell, who is a sommelier and graduate of the University of Bordeaux (the Harvard of wine schools), is generously sharing his expertise so that wine enthusiasts may be a little more knowledgeable with the next wine list they encounter.

Often, people are incorrectly referred to as sommeliers, as it is actually an academic and experiential distinction. Gino has some of the most impressive credentials in all of Southern California. Campbell’s extensive educational experience started with a degree in Management from the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. He then received top-notch training at Bertolini’s and Lombardi’s, the premier restaurants of Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas at that time.

He is most respected for his education at the esteemed University of Bordeaux in France. He graduated with honors as a Master Sommelier, passing one of the most difficult exams in the world. He also received the title of Advanced Sommelier from the Court of Masters Sommeliers, Culinary Institute of America, in Napa California. In addition to his advanced degrees and designations, a unique qualification that sets Campbell apart from other wine experts is his official affiliation with three guilds; most accredited sommeliers are only affiliated with one guild.

Photo from Joe Shlabotnik via Flickr.

How did Gino Campbell get to where he is today? It can possibly be attributed to his lineage. His grandfather was a farmer and amateur wine maker in Italy. Growing up, wine was an important part of his family’s culture.

He worked in family owned restaurants until he was old enough to go to college and decided to continue his education doing what he knew best. After attending college in Las Vegas and gaining invaluable work experience learning from the best and most talented in the food and wine industry, he began to make a name for himself by opening restaurants in the hottest hotels of the time.

Over the course of 15 years, Campbell created an outstanding track record of opening restaurants with award-winning success. Some of his noteworthy work experience in noted California restaurants include Donovan’s Steak House in La Jolla, the well-known Pamplemousse Grille, and the illustrious Marine Room. He is recognized for his success as a manager, creating teams that deliver impeccable service and designing the “team service” for which Donovan’s Steak House has become famous for.

But the coolest thing about Campbell is that he doesn’t look for recognition or boast of his many accomplishments. He is one of those rare, humble, under-the-radar kind of guys who truly loves his craft, and most importantly, has the knowledge and experience to do so. His teachings illustrate the beauty and subtleties of wine in a non-intimidating way, allowing them to be embraced and appreciated. His style is the exact opposite of the hype and haughtiness of other wine ‘experts,’ as he generously imparts his vast knowledge of wine onto all who wish to hear it.

When asked what his ultimate goal for the “Wine School” was, he gently replied, “To take the mystery out of wine.” That says it all…

Prior attendance is NOT necessary to attend the class.

Sunday, February 21, 5:00pm-7:00pm
$25 – Limited Seating

For more information or to RSVP for the Wine School, please contact Gino Campbell at (858) 488-1725 x326.

Photo from Beatrice Murch via Wikimedia

Join Sommelier Gino Campbell on December 6 for the next installment of The French Gourmet Wine School. I personally had the privilege of attending the last event hosted by Gino, focusing on the wines of the Italian Piemonte region and it was not only fun, but very educational as well.

Gino’s style is very comfortable at these events, the perfect blend of humility and expertise. He doesn’t talk down to his ‘students’, but provides a lot of pithy information that truly demonstrates the love of his craft.

Currently an Encinitas resident, Campbell has a very rich pedigree, having earned honors as a Master Sommelier from the French Sommelier program at the University of Bordeaux, then receiving the title of Advanced Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers, Culinary Institute of America in Napa California.

This installment of ‘The School’ will include the history, the fizz, the districts, regions and villages, the styles, specific grapes, and unique stories. Prior attendance in other events is not necessary to attend any of these classes, but those who have attended definitely tend to come back.

Again, the event is Sunday, December 6, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.; the cost is $25 per person.

For more information or to RSVP for the Wine School, please contact Gino Campbell at (858) 488-1725 x326.

Photo from Beatrice Murch via Wikimedia

One of their real ‘claims-to-fame’ is a profound and very reasonably priced wine selection. Earlier this year they added a very cool set of special events called The French Gourmet Wine School. This was made possible because several months ago they brought sommelier Gino Campbell on board. We’ll be featuring Gino in an upcoming segment in the Entertainer, in addition to a provocative series on wine, but needless to say, he is one of the more accomplished experts on wine in San Diego.

You can join Gino on Sunday, November 22nd for the next installment of the ‘wine school.’ This event will feature the wines of Italy, specifically the Piemonte region. This is a great opportunity to learn about the history of the region, its climate and geography, plus of course enjoy tasting wines from Barolo, Barbaresco, Gavi, Gattinara, Acqui & Roero.

Our sources tell me there are only a few seats left; so for more information or to RSVP for the Wine School, please contact Gino Campbell at (858) 488-1725 x326