Pacific San Diego Magazine, September Issue 2008 by Pacific San Diego Magazine

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table of

INSIDE

contents

12 | VOICE PhotoMobiles Sitting behind the wheel, San Diegans say what drives them. 17 | SPORTS Hybrid vs. Hummer Are eco-friendly vehicles the new chick magnets? KGBFM’s Chainsaw investigates. 18 | COOLTURE Dance-portation The tenth annual Trolley Dances roll through town. 19 | COOLTURE Give a Hoot Book of the Month: Downtown Owl, by bestselling author Chuck Klosterman.

8 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

20 | COOLTURE Moving Stills Modern fashion fuses with classic art to create dramatic living images at the Timken Museum. 22 | STYLE NIFTY FIFTIES Vintage gets a new look. 26 | PROFILE HAMMIN’ IT UP Meet Eitan Hagler, founder of American Pig Brand clothing. 28 | HOME Design of the Times Learn the latest décor trends from industry experts at the La Jolla Design District’s annual event, What’s up Girard.

30 | PARTS DEPARTMENT Gas-saving tips, hands-free communication, tequila in your tank, the 4-1-1 on 5-1-1.

42 | GROOVE Re-sounding success Entrepreneurial accordionist Matt Hensley rejoins Flogging Molly.

33 | TASTE Dynamic Duos San Diego food and beverage experts play matchmaker with their signature dishes and cocktails.

44 | GROOVE En Fuego Claudia Miranda sets the night ablaze at Firehouse.

38 | TASTE A Currant Affair An exclusive interview with Geoffrey Yahn, visionary chef from Currant American Brasserie. 40 | GROOVE BEAT the Streets Street Scene returns to Downtown. Get the scoop and the line-up.

46 | LOVE BLIND DATE: TEST DRIVE Daters ride a Rocket Car to a high-octane night out in Little Italy. 50 | calendar September event listings. 54 | think TAXICAB CONFESSIONS Ann Shoket, Editor in Chief of Seventeen Magazine, says why she doesn’t own a car.

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EMBARK

letter from the

PUBLISHERS David Perloff / Editor in Chief Simone Perloff / Fashion Director

Editor Seems like traffic is getting worse. If you commute through the merge, drive west on the 8 at seven in the morning or try to make it from the 5 to the beach, then I’m preaching to the choir. (Not that you’re in a choir, and not that there’s anything wrong with it if you are.) The point is that getting from here to there takes longer than it used to, and, on top of that, we can’t even use our hands to hold cell phones anymore. Actually, maybe that’s a good thing, because now you can hold a coffee in one hand and whatever else you want in the hand that used to hold your cell phone. I guess I shouldn’t complain, because, to be honest, my commute is a snap. I live by Downtown and work by the beach, so I’m home-to-office in about 15 minutes, and, along the way, I pass by the harbor and Mission Bay and catch a glimpse of SeaWorld. Although freeway congestion and the line to enter the beach do occasionally double my commute time, I’m reminded each day that we really do have a kick-arse town here, even if we need to spend money on Bluetooth headsets. Plus, now that the Zonies are gone, traffic should lighten up at least a smidge.

DESIGN DIRECTOR Kim Cuffe MANAGING EDITOR Michael Benninger

This AUTOMOTIVE ISSUE of PacificSD celebrates the ways by which cars are interwoven into the fabric of Finest City lifestyles. In Photomobiles (page 12), photographer Kenny Sanchez reveals intimate looks into San Diegans’ love affairs with what drives them. In Nifty ‘50s (page 22), it’s stilettos to the metal as vintage fashions get a new look. Parts Department (page 30) is stocked with simple gassaving tips that really work and insight into how the main ingredient in tequila may soon become the primary fuel in your tank. Read about Street Scene’s return to Downtown (page 40), check out Chainsaw’s examination of the sexiness of Hybrids vs. Hummers (page 17) and ride along for a highoctane Rocket Car blind date through Little Italy (page 46). And finally, loyal reader, a big thanks to you. Your unwavering love for this magazine has propelled us to being named “The Nation’s Second Best Magazine” by Ann Shoket, Editor in Chief of Seventeen Magazine (see Taxicab Confessions, page 54).

Top five quasi-celebrity excuses for getting out of hands-free phone law citations: “I was just holding it.” -Heidi Fleiss “Ze battery vas dead.” -Dr. Ruth Westheimer “Hey, I’m on long distance. Do you know how much this is costing me?” -Mom “Star sixty-nine this, beeeeotch!” -Mel Gibson “Bluetooth just doesn’t work for me.” -Smurfette

CAR ON COVER 1955 CHEVY NOMAD Engine: 502 cu. in. Chevy Power: 606 hp Transmission: 5-speed Tremec

WRITERS Craig Boreth Lauren Brunelle Heidi Hageman Brandon Hernández Rebecca Heyl Adrienne Ludwig Cookie “Chainsaw” Randolph Derek Shaw Lauren Tait Bonnie Vandewater ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Dave Lebhar Craig Magnusson PHOTOGRAPHERS Lou Mora, loumora.com Greg Ramirez, ramirezphotos.com Kenny Sanchez, threefourmedia.com INTERNS Carissa Casares Rada Feldman FASHION EDITORIAL TEAM Photographer: Ming S. Wu, h2wu.com Stylist: Jennifer Herman, jennystyle@gmail.com Hair: Talia Guidero, A Robert Cromeans Salon, 619.595.1120 Makeup: Maryl Velbeck, marylcolordesign@sbcglobal.net Stylist’s Assistants: Carissa Casares, Cate Adams, Laura Herman Models: Kristen Kassinger at Jet Jet Models, jetsetmodels.com; Jonathan Valdez at No Ties Management, notiesmanagement.com

Exterior: Ferrari red paint Interior: Two-tone grey Italian leather Accolades: Winner of more than 40 Best of Show and 1st-Place trophies Upgrades: Two-year restoration and modification project Owner: Barry Penn

undercover: Kristen Kasinger and Jonathan Valdez were photographed by Ming S. Wu on Sunset Boulevard, in Mission Hills. Styled by Jennifer Herman. Hair by Talia Guidero. Makeup by Maryl Velbeck. Kristen is wearing a graphic print halter dress by Fair Ground, $89, available at Mesh Boutique, 619.295.5251; tulle slip (worn under dress), $17, available at Mileage Clubwear, 858.581.1285; red elastic belt, stylist’s own; satin “Spheres” necklace, $60, available at Mesh Boutique, 619.295.5251; black patent clutch by Angie and Lola, $29, available at Mileage Boutique, 858.581.1285; shoes, model’s own. Jonathan is wearing an indigo “Prime Check” shirt, $110, white “Drawback” tee, $65, black “Rektor” leather jacket, $560, crushed black, “Radar Narrow Rope” jeans, $200, and royal blue “Painted Jones” belt, $70, all by G-Star, available at G-Star Boutique—San Diego, 619.238.7088; black leather shoes by Clark’s, $89, available at Kate Ross Shoes, 619.501.6318.

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Advertiser Spotlight: Scene Boutique, Crown Point Campaign: 1/3-page ads created by PacificSD’s design team Results: “My ads in Pacific San Diego generate new business and bring new customers to my upscale fashion boutique every month. The magazine brings me shoppers from downtown, the beach area, La Jolla, Mission Valley, Del Mar, you name it. When I ask new customers how they heard of Scene Boutique, the response I get most often is, ‘I saw your ad in Pacific San Diego.’ Keep up the good work and keep the customers coming!” —Andria Marshall, Owner advertising info: Please call 858.274.1111 for advertising information and a complimentary consultation with a marketing expert.

PACIFICsandiego.com 858.274.1111 10 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

photo mobileS

VOICE

Sitting behind the wheel, San Diegans say what drives them Photos by Kenny Sanchez

PHOTOMOBILE: 1999 Acura 3.0 CL Pole Position: Marketing coordinator from Pacific Beach Driven by: “My first car was a Dodge Neon. I’ve had a few accidents, but I’ve learned to drive better since then. My dream car is a BMW. I’ve always wanted one since I was a little girl.”

12 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

Kim

Jennifer

photomobile: 2006 Acura TL Pole Position: Pharmaceutical sales rep from Bay Ho Driven by: “My first car was a Chevy Cavalier. The windshield wasn’t actually attached to the car, so, when it rained, it would leak into the car. This Acura is my dream car.”

photomobile: 1997 BMW 328is Pole Position: Real estate broker from Mission Beach Driven by: “My first car was an ‘86 Honda Prelude. My dream car is a Cadillac XLR. It’s another really cool and tiny sports car that looks different from anything in the world.”

Matt

Adrienne

photomobile: 2002 Mazda Protégé Pole Position: Student from Del Mar Driven by: “My first car was a 1976 Alfa Romeo, a handme-down from my stepfather. I would always stick my eight-foot surfboard on the back of it.”

photomobile: 2000 Hyundai Accent Pole Position: Administrative assistant from Kearny Mesa Driven by: “My first car was an ‘83 Toyota Celica. The first day I bought it, I crashed it. I don’t really have a dream car... I’m giving up my car for a bike and moving to Panama for a few months.”

VOICE

Camron car: 2000 Toyota Tundra

Pole Position: Graphic designer from North County Driven by: “My first car was a Toyota pickup truck. The nickname for the truck was Mad Max because it was pretty beaten up and falling apart. My dream car is a Lamborghini.”

14 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

Justin

Casey

Jessica

photomobile: 2005 Ford Mustang Pole Position: Fisherman from Pacific Beach Driven by: “My first car was a Toyota Tercelly, beeeotch! My dream car is an Aston Martin DB9. That’s what James Bond drives.”

photomobile: 1999 Nissan Altima Pole Position: Cosmetology student from Ocean Beach Driven by: “My first car was a 1980 Volvo. I wish I would have known there was a leak in my oil line. My dream car is a ‘69 Pontiac GTO. They’re big and kind of intimidating .”

photomobile: 2000 Honda Civic Pole Position: Student from Pacific Beach Driven by: “This Honda Civic is my first car. My dream car is any kind of Cadillac, because they’re really comfy and make you feel like you are driving a ship and you are just sailing.”

Tiffany

photomobile: 1961 Mercury Meteor Pole Position: Home improvement store representative from City Heights Driven by: “My first car was a ‘94 Saturn. I wish I didn’t total it. My dream car is a Prius.”

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power struggle

SPORTS

are you ready for some

football?

Are hybrids finally cooler than Hummers? by cookie “chainsaw” randolph

the

sundevils

For the American male, getting from point “A” to point “B” economically is not nearly as important as getting her “A” to be in his apartment. And if the ‘60s taught us anything, it’s that chicks dig muscle cars, no matter how much it costs to fill the tank. But wait! Is sex appeal changing with this energy crisis? Have fuel prices made Smart Cars sexier than traditional gas-guzzling chick magnets? Eco-conscious skinny guys like John Mayer and Leo DiCaprio are all over this hybrid bandwagon. Look at DiCaprio, dedicating the Oscars to eco-hypocrite Al Gore, who Lear-Jetted in from his flood-lit estate to accept an un-recyclable statuette. And the audience gave them standing Os. (BTW, shouldn’t Leo be grateful the icebergs are melting? One killed him in Titanic, you know). Adrian Grenier, the toothpick star of HBO’s Entourage, did a special on how cool it is to go green. So what if the ship has sailed on Entourage? At least it’s powered by wind. There’s a trend going on here, and it’s not Howie Long in a Hummer. Unfortunately for eco-friendlies, the most famous hybrid has the dumbest name: Prius. Need a second opinion? Okay, it’s ugly too. It’s about time Detroit gave us some sportier hybrids that really move us. Coming soon to what used to be your neighborhood SUV dealer: Ford Phelps This amphibious record-breaker is powered by 8 golden cylinders.

Cadillac T.O. Ego Gets unlimited mileage on ego-trips, especially through Dallas Cowboy country.

Cougar DSL, Madonna Edition The perfect ride for A-Rod’s annual October vacation.

Nissan Favre Vacillator 44.4 MPG from New York to Mississippi.

Dodge Charger L.T. Lightning-powered speedster can dodge oncoming traffic on grass or turf without slowing down.

Buick Tiger Turbo The best performance hybrid of all runs on pure desire. Best on major trips, but spends a lot of time in the shop.

Chainsaw lives uphill from work, so he can coast into the Dave, Shelly and Chainsaw morning show at 101.5, KGB-FM. His eco-friendly email is: chainsaw@101kgb.com

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COOL TURE

– Dance

Art merges with transit at the San Diego Trolley Dances By Adrienne Ludwig

On a trip to Switzerland ten years ago, San Diego Dance Theater artistic director Jean Isaacs was enthralled by the country’s inclination toward unconventional dance.

Since the event’s inception, Isaacs has worked with more than 30 choreographers and 450 dancers to stage routines that liberate dance from its typical restraints.

“On my tour, I saw people making crêpes while dancing, people dancing by a lake, and a couple dancing on a rooftop to the sounds of cows mating,” Isaacs recounts.

“What I like about the Trolley Dances is that the audience is not confined to a chair and isolated as they are in a theater," says Isaacs.

The body movements Isaacs witnessed abroad inspired her to forge a partnership with the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) shortly after her return to San Diego. Working in concert with MTS, Isaacs organized the inaugural San Diego Trolley Dances—a collection of avant-garde dances that celebrate modern life by incorporating fixtures found in urban landscapes. Isaacs’ mission was to introduce dance audiences to parts of San Diego with which they may have been unfamiliar, while simultaneously delivering art to people who utilize public transportation. This year marks the tenth annual Trolley Dances.

The themes, music and locations for this year’s Trolley Dances were dictated by venerated choreographers, including Isaacs, Terry Wilson, Monica Bill Barnes, Anthony Rodriguez and Katie Stevenson. Zoom around town September 26-27 and October 4-5 in San Diego's signature red rovers on a five-stop tour that begins at Hazard Center, follows the San Diego River to Old Town, and then navigates Downtown. Ride on!

TROLLEY DANCES TIX: $10-$30

Tours begin at the Hazard Center Trolley Station (off Friars Road) DATES: Saturday and Sunday, September 27-28 and October 4-5 TIME: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. daily; tours begin hourly and last two hours TIP: Wear good walking shoes.

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DRIVE-IN

theaters Santee Drive-In / santee 10990 Woodside Ave. » 619.448.7447

18 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

Drive-in theaters revolutionized the cinematic experience by merging the majesty of Hollywood and America’s love affair with automobiles. But, thanks to DVD players, 52” high-defs and price gouging at the pump, these park-and-view destinations are all but a thing of the past. Over 300 drive-ins once called California home. Today, just a few dozen remain statewide, including these two in San Diego County.

South Bay Drive-In / imperial beach 2170 Coronado Ave. » 619.423.2727 » southbaydrivein.com

give a hoot BOOK of the month

COOL TURE

Downtown Owl, by best-selling author Chuck Klosterman by bonnie vandewater

What does it mean to be normal? Reading Downtown Owl (Scribner, September 2008), the first novel by New York Times best-selling author Chuck Klosterman, may not give you the answer, but it may lead you to rephrase the question.

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A master at analyzing and dissecting pop culture, Klosterman has authored scores of esoteric articles and four books of analytical essays, including his 2003 bestseller, Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs: A Low Culture Manifesto. He has been a senior writer for Spin and a regular contributor to The Washington Post, GQ and New York Times Magazine. Now, this quirky writer offers up his first work of fictionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a darkly comedic examination of life in Owl, a small town somewhere in North Dakota. The story involves a strange high school football player named Mitch, a borderline alcoholic named Julia, a bison farmer who listens to the Rolling Stones album, Goats Head Soup, and an old-timer who drinks too much coffee and obsesses about his dead wife. By delving deep into the human psyche, Klosterman shows how a seemingly â&#x20AC;&#x153;normalâ&#x20AC;? life can be, wellâ&#x20AC;Ś extraordinary. Bonnie Vandewater: What can you tell us about Downtown Owl?

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CK: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be coming to L.A., but not San Diego. You know, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never been to San Diego. The only time I ever travel is if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work-related. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never taken a vacation. My girlfriend wants to go to Costa Rica next February, and if we do that, it will be the first time Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever gone somewhere purely to hang out. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even know what people do on vacation. Growing up, my parents never took a vacation. I think Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d get bored. I feel like a vacation would be a lot of work. You have the responsibility of having to get up at a certain time. Like, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gotta go look at the mountains.â&#x20AC;? I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like planning things, and, on vacation, people always want to plan things. I imagine if I went to San Diego for two weeks, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d feel like it was a job.

BV: Will you be stopping in San Diego for a book tour?

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CK: Right now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m working on another book of essays. I decided I wanted to do shorter pieces again. I had these different things I was playing around with, and then decided I wanted to write about the things that interest me personally. I like to take two unlike thingsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;or things that seem unalikeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and show how the experience consuming them is the same.

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BV: What are you working on now?

Chuck Klosterman: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fictional account of North Dakota in 1983, and it essentially follows the lives of three main characters who are aware of each other, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a small community, but who have no real relationship. But theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re kind of unified ultimately by a situation at the end of the book. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more like a character study than a plot-driven book.

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moving

BODY

StILLS Modern fashion blends with classic art to create dramatic live images at the Timken Museum by rebecca heyl

photos by rodney nakamoto and nathan macias

The Old Masters paintings at the Timken Museum of Art came alive last month in The Art of Fashion: Tableaux de Mode, where ten students from Fashion Careers College (FCC) displayed and wore their modern interpretations of the clothing worn in eight paintings. The elaborate designs incorporated voluminous skirts, cinched waists and teetering high heels. The models, whose hair and make-up were also inspired by the masterpieces, alternately posed in front of the paintings and mingled with the crowd. Event chair Pat O’Connor, FCC founder and docent at the Timken, was joined by London fashion icon Zandra Rhodes (with her signature pink hair) in addressing the crowd for this inaugural event. “I was very pleased with how successful the event was,” says Rhodes, who has designed outfits for Princess Diana of Wales and late-Queen frontman Freddie Mercury. “It was great seeing paintings come to life, and I think the work of the FCC students added another dimension to the importance of the paintings.” FCC is one of the top fashion design colleges in California. Graduates work at fashion trendsetters such as BCBGMAXAZRIA Group and Adio Footwear. The more than 200 people in attendance helped to raise $14,000 for the Timken’s educational programs. INFO: timkenmuseum.org » fashioncareerscollege.com

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STYLE

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;50s vintage gets a fresh new look Photographs by Ming S. Wu Styled by Jennifer Herman Hair: Talia Guidero, A Robert Cromeans Salon Makeup: Maryl Velbeck Assistants: Carissa Casares, Cate Adams, Laura Herman Models: Kristen Kassinger at Jet Set Models, Jonathan Valdez at No Ties Management

1955 Chevy Nomad Engine: 502 cu. in. Chevy

Interior: Two-tone grey Italian leather

Power: 606 hp

Accolades: Winner of more than 40 Best of Show and 1st-Place trophies

Transmission: 5-speed Tremec

Upgrades: Two-year restoration and modification project

Exterior: Ferrari red paint

Owner: Barry Penn

22 | SEPTEMBER 2008 ÂŤ PACIFICsandiego.com

SS T Y L EE

PACIFICsandiego.com » SEPTEMBER 2008 | 23

driven

stilettos to the metal

STYLE

rebel without a pause you don’t have to be moving to cause a stir

ON KRISTEN: Graphic print halter dress by Fair Ground, $89, available at Mesh Boutique, 619.295.5251; tulle slip (worn under dress), $17, available at Mileage Clubwear, 858.581.1285; red elastic belt, stylist’s own; satin “Spheres” necklace, $60, available at Mesh Boutique, 619.295.5251; black patent clutch by Angie and Lola, $29, available at Mileage Boutique, 858.581.1285; shoes, model’s own. ON JONATHAN: Indigo “Prime Check” shirt, $110, white “Drawback” tee, $65, black“Rektor” leather jacket, $560, crushed black, “Radar Narrow Rope” jeans, $200, and royal blue “Painted Jones” belt, $70, all by G-Star, available at G-Star Boutique—San Diego, 619.238.7088; black leather shoes by Clark’s, $89, available at Kate Ross Shoes, 619.501.6318. PACIFICsandiego.com » SEPTEMBER 2008 | 25

hammin’

PROFILE

it up

A chart illustrating humankind’s evolution from ape to man to pig. The statue of liberty holding super-sized fries and proudly hoisting a Big Gulp. Marines raising the almighty dollar at Iwo Jima. Eitan Hagler wears his heart, his ideologies and these images on his sleeve. And thanks to his cutting edge clothing line, American Pig Brand, so can you. “In Southern California, graphic t-shirts have always been something people use to express themselves,” says Hagler. “At APB, we try to stay up on current trends while adding SoCal flavor to streetwear.” For APB, that means manufacturing unique surf, skate and snow fashions that provoke insightful ponderings and an examination of our country and its value system.

26 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

The founder of American Pig Brand lives in hog heaven by brandon hernández photo by greg ramirez

PROFILE

lady liberty WITH a big Gulp

baRbie q. as a piglet

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The genesis of APB was a 1998 conversation between Hagler and a friend, both of whom were graphic designers who had recently returned from travels abroad. The two were discussing the immense success of the U.S. versus the rest of the world and how that success manifests itself in all facets of American life—in everything from the cars we drive to the clothes we wear to the food we eat and the lifestyle that we tend to take for granted.

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Immediately, ideas for designs that artistically communicated this newfound take on society sprang forth. In no time, they had not only a poignant and prolific portfolio, but a term to sum up their underlying satirical theme – American Pig. “The whole idea behind the brand is a direct reflection of the unique and often excessive aspects of American culture,” says Hagler. “In one way or another, we’re all American pigs, because we’re excessive. When people disagree, I ask them how many Starbucks coffees they drink in a day, how many pairs of shoes they have, how many restaurants in their neighborhood are open 24 hours. Then, people start to understand.” With stores and websites based in the U.S. as well as the U.K., Germany and the Czech Republic, there’s no denying that, at home and abroad, customers are indeed catching on. Oinks For Obama Not surprisingly, Hagler is very open about his opinions regarding the upcoming presidential election.

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“Personally, I am an Obama fan. I believe he can make changes. So, I looked at what was out there as far as Obama t-shirts, and there really wasn’t anything other than boring red, white and blue center-print stuff.” Hagler broke from the patriotic doldrums and started what he has deemed The Obama Project. “We created designs for Obama shirts that young people would actually wear, and we’ve done really well with them. The fact that a young kid would want to wear an Obama shirt is amazing to me. He inspires the kids, and they are the ones who are going to make changes.” New Pigs, New Digs When APB moved into its first retail space last year, Hagler decided that the brand needed a unique marketing tool. One of his employees told him that he had always wanted a pet pig and that, if Hagler would subsidize the purchase of one, he’d take care of it. Hagler was skeptical, but he went for it and soon had a snout-nosed quadruped named Kevin Bacon roaming the APB showroom. “We got an amazing response,” says Hagler. “People would come in just to look at him. There were lots of times when there was no doubt in my mind that a sale we made was because of the pig.” So, you can imagine Hagler’s dismay when his pig-sitter moved away and took Kevin Bacon with him. Instead of going hog wild over the loss, Hagler bought a new pig, this one named Barbie Q. In January, Barbie moved with APB to its current location on Garnet Avenue, in Pacific Beach. Later this year, Barbie will visit a Make-A-Wish Foundation child who has always wanted to have his own pig. It’s no wonder Hagler says his marketing-tool-turned-family-member is “worth her weight in gold.”

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Design of the times HOME

See the latest trends in home décor at the La Jolla Design District’s annual event, What’s Up Girard by heidi Hageman

Whether you’re renting an apartment, decorating a new condo or looking to spice up the family estate, the La Jolla Design District’s fifth annual What’s Up Girard event intends to transform your house into a home. On Saturday, September 20, design beginners and seasoned professionals will glimpse the latest trends in home décor along the four-block stretch of Girard Avenue that has attracted A-list shoppers, including Ashlee Simpson, Cindy Crawford and Steffi Graf. Working together to promote the District, select showrooms will host informative design seminars moderated by experts in the fields of architecture, furniture and bath design, abstract art and more. Admission to the seminars is free to the public, and attendees are invited to celebrate with District members at the evening’s private Showroom Soirées. The parties, which offer a unique opportunity to network and mingle with a crowd of architects and top design professionals, will feature an assortment of food from some of San Diego’s premier restaurants. In addition to delicious cuisine, select showrooms will also offer cocktails and live entertainment. A charity auction of stylish interior accessories benefits Bloom (ljesbloom.com), La Jolla Elementary School’s new site improvement committee whose mission is to beautify the school’s hardscape and landscape.

INFO Date: Saturday, September 20 Times: Seminars, 1-5 p.m. (details below); Social Soirées, 5-7 p.m. Admission: Free Location: The La Jolla Design District, Girard Avenue, La Jolla Seminar Schedule (see table below): Attendees receive invitations to private Showroom Soirées, featuring appetizers, cocktails and live entertainment.

[ 1 p.m. ] Incorporating Luxury Fabrics into the Home Designer Becky Walker offers innovative recommendations for using high-end textiles as window treatments, upholstery and home accents. Location: Material Things, 7661 Girard Ave., 858.551.0873

[ 2 p.m. ] Jonathan Segal, Architect as Developer, Three Homes: Past, Present, Future One of San Diego’s premier architects, Jonathan Segal, FAIA, reviews case studies of his award-winning work. Location: Divan Studio, 7661 Girard Ave., 858.551.0405

28 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

[ 2 p.m. ] Pillow Talk: Everything You Should Know When Purchasing Bedding and a Mattress Learn experts’ perspectives on the advantages of natural latex versus poly foam mattresses and get the inside scoop on the facts and misconceptions shoppers should consider. Location: Everett Stunz, 7616 Girard Ave., 858.459.3305

[ 3 p.m. ] Interior Design Q & A Session Widely regarded as the preeminent expert on Southern California’s signature Seaside Leisure style, awardwinning designer Sheryll Jackman answers questions about classics, colors and innovative design. Location: Seaside Home, 7509 Girard Ave., 858.454.0866

[ 4 p.m. ] Bathroom on a Budget Avoid breaking the bank by redoing a bath on a budget without sacrificing style. The presentation highlights four different looks for the bath, from hard surfaces and plumbing to accent panels and accessories. Location: Waterworks, 7631 Girard Ave., 858.454.0446

[ 4 p.m. ] Artist, Walter Redondo Walter Redondo has been selling his abstract canvases since he burst onto the local art scene in 1998. The works on display portray Redondo’s passion for texture, spatial relationship and sophisticated imagery. Location: Roche Bobois, Contemporary, 7611 Girard Ave., 858.459.0297; Provincial, 7607 Girard Ave., 858.459.5711

breakfast * lunch * dinner * lounge

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Batesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; World Famous seafood dishes reflect his International approach to fine California Coastal Cuisine. Menu changes daily depending upon what seafood is freshest at market.

Reservations: 858.272.3100 * 711 Pacific Beach Drive * Pacific Beach

Enjoy a gourmet seafood dinner for about $20/person

PA R T S

look ma,

No Hands Put down your cell phone and pick up an Ego By Carissa Casares

Mom always said not to put anything in my ear that’s smaller than my elbow. Now, California’s new cell phone law has me considering jamming a Bluetooth headset into the side of my head. Wireless technology is great, but I’m not ready to look like a cyborg just yet. And if cell phones cause brain tumors, the last thing I need is gamma waves in my ear hole. Funkwerk to the rescue. The German-based manufacturer of Bluetoothenabled products, whose headquarters for the Americas is located at the epicenter of cutting-edge technology (kidding, it’s in Clairemont), recently unveiled Ego, a new line of sleek devices that help drivers avoid sticking it in their ears. Egos do a lot more than just facilitate phone calls. In addition to voice-activated dialing, some models enable users to stream MP3s from their cell phones to their car stereos, provide turn-by-turn audible directions to any destination and even display videos. (Better keep your hands at ten and two, because keeping your eyes on the road just got harder.) For just over $100, the Ego Cup provides a simple plug-and-play solution. Named for its ability to fit in just about any cup-holder, the Cup draws power from a cigarette lighter and boasts superior speaker-phone functionality, which is enhanced by noise-cancelling technology that helps the person on the other end of the line to hear you instead of the Harley roaring by. “The Cup is a user-friendly, quick solution to dealing with California’s new law,” says Courtney Berg, Funkwerk’s public relations representative for the Americas.

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gas!

Ten small ways to save big bucks at the pump By Derek Shaw

While biofuels and hybrids allow some car owners to take a step in the right direction, it’s wishful thinking to expect all Americans to afford the premium sticker price for either. Realistically speaking, immediate relief to painful gas prices lies in the garage. There are dozens of ways to make your car less wasteful and more earth-friendly. Here are ten easy ones:

Ego’s most popular model, the feature-packed Flash, requires a more expensive hard-wired installation. However, with the increased cost comes additional capabilities, including caller ID, storage for up to 10,000 phonebook entries and a text-to-speech function that reads your text messages aloud. Now that’s music to the ears—and a whole lot easier than trying to get your elbow to fit inside.

4. Excess baggage. A heavily loaded roof rack can reduce your fuel economy by five percent. Filling up your backseat and trunk means that you’re carrying excess weight. Improve gas mileage by leaving the heavy stuff at home. Your passengers will appreciate the legroom. 5. Under pressure. Half of the cars on the road are riding on under-inflated tires, which leads to worn treads and wasted fuel. Check your tire pressure at the gas station regularly. It’s fast and often free. 6. Bust a cap. Tightening your gas cap prevents fuel from evaporating. According to the Car Care Council, nearly 20 percent of vehicles have gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing, causing 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize annually. 7. Chill on the A/C. You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s easy to forget during summertime. Take advantage of that beach breeze—crack the windows and open the vents. Air conditioning can diminish your fuel economy by up to 20 percent.

1. Not so fast. Driving at a slower, steadier pace conserves a lot more fuel than you might think. Gunning it is the fastest way to end up with an empty tank. Cruise in the highest gear possible without straining your engine.

8. Cover up. While your vehicle bakes in the summer sun, fuel is evaporating from the tank. Parking in a garage minimizes the problem and helps your car endure the elements. Try a windshield shade to block the sun, protect your interior and reduce suffocating heat and the consequent need for more A/C.

2. How low can you go? Unless your car requires premium gasoline, skip it. Higher octane means more money but doesn’t necessarily translate to improved mileage or performance. Your car will likely run just fine on the cheaper stuff, but it’s best to consult your owner’s manual for minimum gasoline grade requirements.

9. Running on Fumes. When your fuel runs low, your tank stops receiving a steady supply of gas, which makes your engine run much less efficiently. While increasing time between visits to the pump may seem less painful to your wallet, you’ll wind up wasting more money if you don’t keep your tank above one-third full.

3. American idle. Most cars don’t need to warm up anymore. The longer you sit in the driveway, the more gas you’re burning. Don’t leave your car running when it’s unnecessary and avoid idling for more than a few minutes.

10. Freshen up. Clogged air filters can reduce gas mileage by up to ten percent. Experts recommend changing air filters as often as you change your oil—every three months or 3,000 miles.

30 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

get Tanked

PA R T S

Fill ‘er up with high-octane agave by michael benninger

Tequila has the power to make all of your troubles (along with your cell phone, inhibitions and maybe even your job) disappear. But what if tequila’s main ingredient, agave, could solve some of the world’s biggest problems without giving anyone a hangover? A team of Mexican scientists is working on an epic agave-toethanol project that could forever quench America’s thirst for fuel. What’s more, this ambitious plan holds the promise to reinvigorate economies around the globe and simultaneously help restore the environment. Agave is rich in sugar, making it ideal for producing ethanol, which can then be processed into eco-friendly fuel. Just one acre of agave plants can produce 2,000 gallons of ethanol; the same amount of corn reaps a mere 300-400 gallons. In short, less land could be used to produce more fuel, and that’s just one of the benefits associated with this wonder crop. Currently, Mexico produces 95% of the world’s supply of consumable agave, but this adaptable plant has the ability to thrive in dry, infertile wastelands all over the world. Large-scale agave harvesting could create new jobs and new markets, even in poverty-stricken communities in arid climates on seemingly worthless land. This resilient crop is affordable to harvest, impervious to droughts and doesn’t require irrigation or agrochemicals. Plus, agave absorbs nitrogen from the air and then releases it into soil, naturally improving the quality of the ground in which it grows. It’s a win-win for Mother Nature and mankind. Recently, INE (Mexico’s national ecology institute) signed on to provide funding and assistance for the project, which may result in almost 20,000 acres of agave being harvested for fuel south of the border. The only drawback? There’s plenty of negative speculation as to how this plan might impact the cost and availability of tequila. The best bet is to head to Chevron with some limes and salt. Salud!

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Even though you just spent $75 to fill your tank (halfway), you’re out of gas and stranded on the 5. Now what? When you need a tow truck, tire change, gasoline or any other type of non-emergency roadside assistance, fear not… 5-1-1 is here to bail you out. The San Diego Service Authority for Freeway Emergencies (SAFE) Mobile Call Box Program offers non-emergency assistance to drivers on County freeways and highways. By dialing 5-1-1 toll-free from a cell phone, distressed drivers can connect to the same live-answering call center available through those yellow roadside phones without having to abandon their vehicles or trek down a treacherous highway in the dark. 511sd.com, sdcallbox.com Services available by calling 5-1-1 or visiting 511sd.com include:

Happy

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TA S T E

dynamic DUOS

San Diego food and beverage experts play matchmaker with their signature dishes and cocktails by Brandon Hernández PHOTO BY CHANTELLE

A bold, earthy cabernet and a pepper-crusted porterhouse. A crisp, perfectly-chilled pinot grigio alongside a plate of fresh shellfish. Wine’s ability to raise already delicious food to delectable new heights is well known. But man cannot live on vino alone… nor should man have to. At least not in San Diego, where a wet bar’s worth of possibilities accompanies our best bills of fare. Chefs and mixologists are more adventurous than ever, and many of our region’s finest are working to bring their worlds together via their respective bailiwicks to create a succinctly simpatico dining experience. It’s enough to drive someone to drink… in a good way. Such “driven” individuals need look no further than the following spots for the perfect blend of fine food and high spirits.

OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM / GASLAMP [Pictured] 400 J St. » theoceanaire.com Chef Brian Malarkey believes that drinks with big personalities are best complemented by dishes with equally-pronounced character. In keeping with that ideal, he stacks his Cajun-spiced black tiger barbecue prawns against bartender Ron Steen’s signature drink, The Otter Pop. A variation of the famous Lemon Drop, The Otter Pop combines Absolut Citron vodka, triple sec and sour mix with a blue raspberry float and offers up a defined sweetness that interplays well with the bold spiciness of the prawns. SECOND ROUND: The Oceanaire Mojito + Spicy El Diablo Squid

TABULE INTERNATIONAL CUISINE & BAR / GASLAMP 535 Fourth Ave. » tabulerestaurantbar.com Although the best of a chef’s edible offerings can come across as culinary genius, pairing food and drink doesn’t have to be rocket science. Chef Moe Sadighian’s new restaurant in the heart of Downtown boasts an extensive array of signature martinis, one of which incorporates fresh pomegranate juice. What goes best with pomegranate? In this case, more pomegranate! And Sadighian provides it in the form of grilled duck breast with walnuts in a pomegranate reduction sauce. SECOND ROUND: Mango Martini + Thai Chili Mango Baby Back Ribs

PACIFICsandiego.com » SEPTEMBER 2008 | 33

TA S T E

OSETRA / GASLAMP [pictured] 904 Fifth Ave. » osetrafishhouse.com Chef Alberto Morreale takes a cultural approach when pairing food with cocktails, starting with an innovative take on a Mexican classic, tacos. After stuffing warm flour tortillas with tempura-fried lobster, salsa and cilantro-infused crème fraîche, he accompanies this upscale comfort plate with a Cactus-tini: Sauza añejo tequila with Cointreau, fresh lime and a splash of Grand Marnier. It may be more margarita than martini, but there’s nothing ‘tini about its citrus punch, which lifts the flavors of the lobster and its accoutrements to epic status. SECOND ROUND: Angie’s Dirty Sky (pepperoncini-infused vodka) + Spicy Tempura Tuna Roll with Soy Sauce & Wasabi

C LEVEL / ISLAND PRIME / Harbor Island 880 Harbor Island Dr. » cohnrestaurants.com The only thing this “port-side” lounge’s breathtaking views play second fiddle to is the spectacular fare of San Diego icon chef Deborah Scott, whose tropically-inspired dishes and cocktails are as perfectly suited for C Level’s outdoor environs as they are for each other. This is exhibited in exquisite fashion by the union of Deb’s Mai Tai, a sweet and sour rum cocktail made even more flavorful with the addition of sweet almond syrup, and her seared Hawaiian ahi stack, a tower of spicy tuna, crab, avocado and a bright papaya-mango salsa that brings it all together. SECOND ROUND: Isle of Zen Martini + Pan-Seared Chicken Pot Stickers with Vietnamese Dipping Sauce

GRINGO’S CANTINA / Pacific Beach 4474 Mission Blvd. » gringoscantina.com You can’t have a valid discussion about cocktails in San Diego without covering margaritas. Chef Miguel Deer has developed a number of unique incarnations of this near-native agave-laced libation. One of his favorites is the Suprema, which mixes Cuervo Tradicional, Patron Citronage, pineapple and a Chambord float to create a fusion of Mexican and tropical flavors that pairs stylishly with the papaya and Citronageinfused cilantro-lime sauce accompanying his grilled Swordfish á la Parilla. SECOND ROUND : Gringo Margarita + Copper Pot Carnitas with Guacamole & Jalapeños

34 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

DISH / Hillcrest 1220 University Ave. » dishhillcrest.com Since its recent addition to Hillcrest’s culinary landscape, Dish has been a scorching hot spot for the brunch bunch. Certainly no brunch would be complete without a cocktail or two, and there’s no more food-friendly beverage than the timeless Bloody Mary. Chef Antonio Friscia’s menu offers great Mary-matchable dishes such as the coulotte (top sirloin) steak and eggs with hash browns and béarnaise sauce, and the spinach salad with bacon, a poached egg and a tangy sherry vinaigrette. SECOND ROUND: Champagne Mimosa + Honey Almond Oat Parfait

TA S T E

dynamic

WHISKEY GIRL / Gaslamp 600 5th Ave. » thewhiskeygirl.com

DUOS

Cocktails provide complementary flavors to help round out the potency of hard liquor. But, every now and then, you want that rich, unadulterated taste sensation. If you’re a whiskey girl… or guy… the folks at the Gaslamp’s Whiskey Girl recommend you go with the only 20-year bourbon on the market, Pappy Van Winkle Reserve, and pair that bad boy with a thick, juicy rib-eye steak. Matched with the rib-eye, the clarity and smoothness of the bourbon create a combination in which two strong flavors enhance each other without competing for attention. SECOND ROUND: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale + Whiskey Girl Burger (a pairing on special each Sunday for $10)

continued

GEORGE’S CALIFORNIA MODERN / La Jolla 1250 Prospect St. » georgesatthecove.com

QUARTER KITCHEN / GASLAMP 600 F St. » quarterkitchen.com

There’s a good reason Chef Trey Foshee’s Grave Robber cocktail pairs so well with his grilled lobster and mussels: the drink and the dish are both built on the same solid flavor foundation. Foshee stews the mussels in a broth made with tomato, fennel, onion, garlic and white wine. Once the shellfish are plump and ready to serve, he removes a portion of the broth from the stewpot, adds a shot of pisco (Peruvian brandy) and chills the savory and delightfully spicy concoction down with ice to complete the Grave Robber. SECOND ROUND: Pisco Sour + Octopus Salad with Potatoes & Romesco Sauce

Traditionally, a tomato-based drink is served in tandem with tequila to cleanse the palate. Damon Gordon, the chef at the helm of the Ivy Hotel’s fine dining restaurant, reinterprets the tradition by offering a tomato-based gazpacho soup to complement a tequila cocktail. Made with fresh basil, Cointreau orange liqueur and club soda, the herb and citrus notes of the Corzo Silver Tequila Lemon Basil Martini connect with those of the chilled gazpacho, which is garnished with avocado and a finishing drizzle of smoked olive oil. SECOND ROUND: Basil Zinger Martini + Kobe Carpaccio with Arugula, Crispy Shallots & Parmesan

JSIX & JBAR / East Village 616 J St., » jsixsandiego.com When looking for a great libation, chef Christian Graves needs look no further than his restaurant’s sister bar atop Hotel Solamar. Graves believes that his heirloom tomato and pistachio-crusted goat cheese BLT is best enjoyed at high noon with a chilled glass of Pear Flower Lemonade, a low-alcohol cocktail made from fresh-squeezed lemon juice, Grey Goose vodka and St. Germain elderflower liqueur. The cocktail’s crisp, refreshing flavors pair well with the clean, fresh tomatoes while cutting the smokiness of the bacon. SECOND ROUND: Cucumber Mary + Poached Eggs with Fennel-Cherry Peppers, Sausage & Paprika Smoked Potatoes

CURRANT AMERICAN BRASSERIE / Downtown 140 West Broadway » currantrestaurant.com Absinthe, the fabled and previously-outlawed “green fairy,” has touched down at this American brasserie, where it is both mixed into cocktails and served up in traditional fashion – diluted by ice-cold water strained through a slotted spoon containing a single sugar cube. The process blooms the spirit’s inherent anise flavor, making it an ideal sipping companion for chef Geoffrey Yahn’s saffron pappardelle pasta, which is served with shrimp bathed in a cream sauce flavored with another anise liqueur, Pernod. SECOND ROUND: Hemingway’s Death (absinthe & champagne) + Green Tomato Caprese Nouveau Salad

MARINE ROOM / La Jolla Shores 2000 Spindrift Dr. » marineroom.com Chef Bernard Guillas knows a thing or two about cocktails. He and chef de cuisine Ron Oliver just put the finishing touches on a cookbook featuring recipes for a number of unique sippers. One favorite is the Hot Chili Cacao: Van Gogh Dutch chocolate vodka, Absolut Mandarin, cranberry juice and Lillet (a French aperitif) served in a glass rimmed with cocoa and chili powder. The result is a spicy sweet flavor profile that meshes beautifully with Guillas’ buttery toffee cake adorned with toasted hazelnuts, coffee mousse and decadent buttercream icing. SECOND ROUND: Orchard Bee (apple honey mimosa) + Scottish Smoked Salmon with Almond Griddle Cake

WHISKNLADLE / La Jolla 1044 Wall St. » whisknladle.com Chef Ryan Johnston and mixologist Ian Ward share the philosophy that the best edibles are made from scratch. As such, glass containers filled with various liquors infused with just about every ingredient under the sun line the upstairs portion of this sanctuary for food purists. Ward’s homemade rose water and paprika grenadine mingle with Bulleit bourbon and marry harmoniously with Johnston’s paprika-laced chorizo and date fritters and a sweet-tart tomato piquillo pepper sauce. SECOND ROUND: London’s Burning (Bluecoat gin, lime and jalapeño water) + Seared Divers Scallops with Corn-Tomato Salsa

LAUREL / Bankers Hill 505 Laurel St. » sdurbankitchen.com Hendrick’s is the gin of the moment for mixologists everywhere and it’s the base for this luxurious California-Mediterranean spot’s Raspberry-Thyme Smash, which pairs the complex gin with muddled raspberry and fresh thyme sprigs. The thyme creates a flavor bridge to connect the cocktail with the chèvre (goat cheese) found in chef Joe Magnanelli’s beet and herbed chèvre terrine, which is dressed with a port wine gastrique (sweetened wine sauce) that marries exceptionally well with the drink’s fruitier notes. SECOND ROUND: French Pear Martini + Smoked Bacon, Leek & Feta Flatbread with Golden Raisin Chutney

PHOTO BY EVAN DUNNING

Brandon Hernández is a native San Diegan with a passion for the culinary arts and the local dining scene. He has been featured numerous times on The Food Network’s hit program Emeril Live, is the author of a cookbook titled The Restaurant At Home and offers his expertise on food preparation and menu planning as a culinary consultant via the San Diego-based Deep Crimson Culinary Visions.

PACIFICsandiego.com » SEPTEMBER 2008 | 35

instant chef

TA S T E

Gourmet dishes you can master in mintues

FACTOR Pan-seared sea scallops are seductive and so simple by Craig Boreth

When you need to entice, impress or seduce, few dishes can match pan-seared sea scallops for sheer dramatic impact. And, while they are incredibly easy to prepare, and an affordable alternative to pearls for impressing the ladies, many home cooks remain intimidated. Maybe it’s because sea scallops seem exotic and delicate. Or maybe it’s a vast campaign of misinformation intended to continue allowing restaurants to charge a 500% markup on a dish that any novice cook could make beautifully at home. Who’s to say? All I know is that, with a few simple tips and a foolproof recipe, you’ll soon be making this sweet treat just like the pros. The first thing to realize is that sea scallops are not nearly as easy to overcook as their smaller cousins, the calico scallops (often mislabeled as bay scallops). Sea scallops are much more forgiving and not nearly as quick to achieve the consistency of pencil erasers. Second, finding the best sea scallops is really quite simple. You want to buy scallops that make it to market the most quickly after being harvested (“day boat” or “diver” scallops) and avoid those treated with phosphates to absorb more water (“dry pack” scallops). The best scallops will be pinkish or ivory-colored (phosphate-treated scallops are bleached white); any water they’re sitting in should be clear, not milky. Finally, the perfect preparation for sea scallops is also the easiest. Plan on serving three scallops per person, assuming they’re about the size of a slightly flattened golf ball.

RECIPE Ingredients - Sea scallops, patted dry, sinews removed -Peanut oil -Butter -Salt and pepper Actions: 1. H eat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add two tablespoons peanut oil. 2. When the oil is shimmering hot, add the scallops, being careful not to crowd the pan, and cook undisturbed until nicely browned, or about two minutes. Lower the heat slightly if the oil begins to smoke. 3. Gently turn the scallops using tongs, add one tablespoon of butter and cook the scallops for one to two minutes more, basting them with the butter and oil. 4. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately. The scallops are done when you can press in the middle and feel a firm but gentle resistance, similar to the texture of the palm of your hand at the base of your thumb.

Craig Boreth is a food writer and author of The Hemingway Cookbook. He is also the author of How To Feel Manly In a Minivan, a survival guide for new dads, and How To Iron Your Own Damn Shirt, the perfect husband handbook.

TA S T E

A Currant CHEF of the month

Affair Meet Geoffrey Yahn, the executive chef at Currant American Brasserie by Brandon Hernández photos by greg ramirez

Q&A With Chef yahn

What happens when a chef with a defined passion for all things Americana takes the helm of a hip brasserie? A lot more than mere French fries, that’s for sure. “I enjoy cooking comfort-based foods,” declares the recently appointed executive chef of the Gaslamp’s Currant American Brasserie, Geoffrey Yahn, who sums up his offerings as, “Rich, honest food that makes you feel good… with a touch of class.” Yahn puts his personal stamp on Currant’s cuisine by masterfully infusing classic European dishes with the finest ingredients and techniques our nation has to offer. Southern Italy meets the Deep South as fried green tomatoes find their way into Yahn’s nouveau Caprese salad that’s made even more American with a brightening dash of Hawaiian sea salt. Crispy fried soft-shell crab and spicy remouláde fill in for cod and malt vinegar in a New Orleanian take on a British classic, fish ‘n’ chips. Even playful staples such as popcorn and Walla Walla onion rings find their way onto this patriotic gastronomist’s bill of fare.

“I love looking at all that we have in the kitchen, letting my mind wander to an idea and then seeing it on a plate and surprising even myself with how good it tastes,” says Yahn. “I also like pushing the envelope and introducing our guests to food that they may have never tried.” There is certainly no lack of innovation at Currant, where even the most familiar, traditional recipes undergo some form of lavish update rendering them unique and adventurous. But, if you’re looking for the perfect bite, Yahn recommends the fennel-brined pork chop, which is grilled to perfection and piled atop a bed of creamy polenta with country-fried pork belly and sweet cioppolini onion jus. As though a solid menu weren’t already enough, there’s another admirable component that Yahn brings with him to his new post. “I truly enjoy farm-to-table dining. All of our fish, meat and poultry come from sustainable sources, and over half of our produce comes from local farms.”

This deeply-engrained philosophy spans beyond the present and into Yahn’s future goals. “I hope to always work toward something more. I would like to open a restaurant some day where everything that is brought into the restaurant comes from the local area and leaves no carbon footprint on the community.” When asked about fellow San Diego chefs whom he most respects, Yahn cites two whose ideologies mirror his own. “Jeff Jackson, the executive chef at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, has a true sense of care for the product that he uses and cares about where it comes from. And Christian Graves, the executive chef at JSix, cares about the fish that he brings into his restaurant and is interested in making everything from scratch.” When he first arrived in San Diego, Yahn had the pleasure of collaborating with Jackson and working under Graves. With such committed mentors and colleagues to learn from, it’s no wonder that this inspired chef has been able to adapt so well and so quickly to his new leadership role.

Brandon Hernández: What key values are at the core of what you do as a chef? Geoffrey Yahn: Integrity, passion, love, family, and community. BH: What are some of your favorite restaurants in San Diego? GY: Phil’s BBQ’s barbecue pork sandwich and ribs are amazing! Sushi Deli 2 for good, cheap sushi. The 101 Café, in Encinitas, is a mom-and-pop diner where the people are friendly and the food is really good. BH: What would be your perfect San Diego dining experience? GY: Lying on the grass in Balboa Park with a big hero sandwich from Mona Lisa Deli, in Little Italy, and following that with gelato from Gelato Vero Caffé, in Mission Hills. BH: Name some non-culinary pursuits that you are passionate about? GY: I have a new son who is five months old and a beautiful loving wife, and they are the biggest passion in my life other than cooking.

CURRANT AMERICAN BRASSERIE / downtown 140 West Broadway » 619.702.6309 » currantrestaurant.com » Lunch, M-F: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. » Dinner, nightly: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. 38 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

beat the

GROOVE

streets Street Scene returns to rock its downtown roots By Bonnie Vandewater and lauren brunelle

Photo: street scene 2004

East Village will be rocking even harder than usual September 19 and 20, as Street Scene returns to its downtown roots. This year’s entertainment includes over 40 acts, including mega-stars and rising breakout artists performing on four stages. The two-day extravaganza also features performance art, food vendors, microbrew beer gardens and Brazilian carnival-like celebrations. The all-ages celebration aims to keep the event aligned with its purest ideals— showcasing today’s freshest sounds in a uniquely urban outdoor venue. Twenty-five years ago, Street Scene founder and producer, Rob Hagey, produced Cool Jams, a weeklong jazz festival in the Gaslamp, where artists performed in alleyways, basements and on one stage in the street.

“Then it dawned on me that, instead of promoting just jazz, I could promote all kinds of music,” Hagey says. “It was that type of sound in the street in 1983 that was the beginning of and the inspiration for Street Scene, which was to come the following year.” Street Scene called downtown home for two decades, but the region’s explosive development forced Hagey to relocate in 2004. Although the streets are the festival’s birthplace, the event’s success hinges on the availability of larger open areas such as parking lots. And, with the spot where R.E.M. performed on-stage in 2003 now being occupied by a condo complex and a Starbucks, Street Scene had outgrown the streets and needed a new home. In 2005, the event relocated to Qualcomm; in 2007, Street Scene was planned for Del Mar but then moved

to Coors Amphitheatre (now Cricket Wireless). Like a fish out of water, Street Scene floundered during its time away from the city.

headlining the show along with The Black Crowes. Indie rock band Spoon and West Indian Girl are set to make command performances.

“When we moved to Mission Valley, we were seeing the festival losing its heart and soul,” says Hagey. “So, reviewing the decline in sales and reviewing what the event was all about, the decision was made to put it back downtown and to scale it to the venue.”

Swedish Boys and The Hives will be taking stage, but hopefully not at the same time as TV On The Radio. Two great bands playing at one time may be the curse of Street Scene.

This year, rain or shine, Street Scene will rock East Village, adjacent to Petco Park, where there’s ample parking, and concert-goers can easily hop on the trolley after a long night of partying. Hats off, Hagey, and welcome home Street Scene. SWEET MUSIC Beck, whose newest single, Gamma Ray, hit radio airwaves this summer, is

Underground rap group, Atmosphere, add some much needed hip-hop to the mix. And what’s a concert without some electronic tunes from musicians like Hot Chip and some indie sounds from Cold War Kids? Whether you want to “D.A.N.C.E” to the beats of Justice or mellow out to the reggae beats of Michael Franti & Spearhead, Street Scene 2008 guarantees a little something for everyone… and then some.

LINE-UP: Beck, The Black Crowes, The National, Spoon, Justice, TV on the Radio, Atmosphere, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Cat Power, Tegan and Sara, Sound Tribe Sector 9, Hot Chip, The New Pornographers, X, Vampire Weekend, The Hives, Cold War Kids, Ghostland Observatory, GZA, Diplo, Eagles of Death Metal, Spiritualized, Antibalas, The Mother Hips, Man Man, Del Tha Funky Homosapien, Tokyo Police Club, Devotchka, The Night Marchers, MGMT, Does it Offend You—Yeah?, Foals, Nortec Collective Presents, Bostich + Fussible, The Films, The Muslims, The Whigs, Dengue Fever, West Indian Girl, Chester French, more to be added.

40 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

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GROOVE

re-sounding

Success ENTREPRENEURIAL accordionist Matt Hensley rejoins Flogging Molly (performing at viejas sept. 28)

by Derek Shaw photo by donez

Thirty-seven year-old Matt Hensley is a madman. He has to be in order to juggle two demanding businesses, a rigorous touring schedule and fatherhood. He was one of the most influential pro skaters of the 90s, and his clothing company, Innes, is distributed worldwide. Hensley’s Celtic rock band Flogging Molly blends the intensity of punk with traditional Irish music. Their latest record Float debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 Charts. Get Punch Drunk (a Flogging Molly song title) at their September 28 concert at Viejas.

flogging molly Live at Viejas » September 28 viejasentertainment.com

Derek Shaw: Which came first, your love of skating or jamming? Matt Hensley: I’ve always loved skating and music, so those two genres have been neck-and-neck since childhood. Without music, a lot of my skateboarding jams would have been a lot duller back in the day. Without sounding like a crazy hippie, music is truly the international language. DS: How long have you been playing music? MH: I was a guitar player in the late ‘80s for a couple ska bands. I love to play banjo and anything that squeezes like concertina and accordion. DS: So you’ve always dug folk and roots music? MH: Oh yeah, especially bands that blend traditional elements with rock and roll like Dropkick Murphy’s and The Pogues. DS: How did you start playing accordion in Flogging Molly? MH: I met the singer, Dave King, in Los

42 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

Angeles 13 years ago. After seeing an all-accordion band, we went to an Irish pub. He mentioned that he was starting a band and wanted to incorporate accordion. We shook hands, and he gave me a tape. A week later I went to jam with them, and afterwards he said, “You’re in.” DS: At that point, you guys were just an LA bar band. Did you anticipate getting this big and touring seven months a year? MH: No. I always believed in Dave’s lyrics, and I knew we’d be a great band, but I thought it would be in a much smaller setting. DS: After a decade with Flogging Molly, why did you quit the band in early 2007? MH: I have a 10 year-old son, and the whole time I’ve been on tour… I always had a guilty feeling in the back of my soul that I was f###ing my son up. DS: So what convinced you to come back?

MH: I love my son more than anything else, and I’d take a bullet for him, but this is what his old man does. It took me quitting to know exactly where I stand and where I should be in the world. I belong in this band and I’m meant to play music. DS: So, you opened the Flying Elephant Pub & Grill, in Carlsbad, during the hiatus? MH: I was raised in San Diego, and it’ll always be home. It made sense to me, because I’ve always loved the feel of pubs and I needed to stay around music. It’s an outlet for local musicians to give them the opportunity that I got. And, if the band breaks up tomorrow, I’ll have a place to come home to. DS: Innes has always had a lot of street credibility, especially among skaters and musicians. Assuming that it keeps growing at this rate, what if Nordstrom’s wants to carry your clothes? What does “selling out” mean these days?

MH: I used to think that selling out meant doing business with any big corporation, but the world is different now, and skateboarding has become mainstream, whether I like it or not. DS: How does that translate for Flogging Molly, as you’ve always stayed true to Side One Dummy despite offers from major labels? MH: We don’t want a major, because it doesn’t make sense, and Side One takes great care of us. Even if you sign a big deal, some jackass tries to figure out what you should sound like and whether you need to write a hit song or a mellow song. DS: September is our automotive issue. Are you a motor head? MH: Yeah, I’ve always had old cars and scooters. I own a ’66 Ford F-100 and a ’66 sportster hard tail motorcycle. DS: What’s your dream car? MH: Probably a ’65 Riviera or ’39 Chevy truck.

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GROOVE

bartender of the month

Fuego Claudia Miranda sets the night ablaze at Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge PHOTOs BY LOU MORA

Firehouse is hot these days. The popular Pacific Beach eatery and lounge has a firepit on the rooftop patio, a fire station next door and a scorching bartender named Claudia Miranda serving up the hot times, one martini at a time.

PacificSD: Where are you from and how long have you been here? Claudia Miranda: How do I put this? My mom and dad got really drunk one night and— do you really want details? I’ve been in San Diego long enough to know it’s not Minnesota.

PSD: Best food/drink combo at Firehouse? CM: The fish tacos and our Ultimate Margarita. Wow, could I be any more Mexican?

PSD: I wish I never had to… CM: Have serious conversations with people. It causes wrinkles and cancer.

PSD: Favorite place other than Firehouse to have a drink. CM: The Ivy. They’ve got super hot go-go dancers.

PSD: Biggest weakness? CM: Ninjas don’t have weaknesses.

PSD: I wish I had more… CM: Superpowers. I could kill all the worms on the face of the planet. In case you didn’t know, I have a worm phobia.

PSD: Dream car? CM: I’m already living the dream. A Hyundai Accent. PSD: Relationship status? CM: You’re a relationship!

FIREHOUSE: 722 Grand Ave., Pacific Beach » 858.274.3100 » firehousepb.com 44 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

GROOVE

it’s finally ok to eat yellow snow by carissa casares

photo by LOU MORA

(Somewhere in Alaska, 1992): An Eskimo sits atop a frozen lake, ice fishing and sipping a Red Bull. An unexpected tug on the line jostles the fisherman, who inadvertently spills the wing-giving energy drink into the wintry mix beneath him. Frantic to salvage his beverage, the man uses his bare hands to scoop up the Red Bull, which has by now become one with the snow. It was then that he thought to himself, “Wow, if only I had some vodka… this would be the perfect drink.” At least that’s the story according to Billy Ramirez, co-owner of the Pacific Beach Shore Club. Paying homage to the legendary Eskimo, Shore Club’s Red Bull Slushie is an icy mixture of Red Bull and vodka, which are poured into a Slurpeetype machine and tumbled until frozen, much like the refreshment from childhood except with a different after effect. The concoction is a major hit.

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LOVE

test drive The Food Dude and a fabulous fashionista hit the road for a night OUT in Little Italy

Rocket car: Rent a Rocket Car or buy a scooter from San Diego Scooter and Cycle Supply. Two Pacific Beach locations: 1400 Garnet Ave., 1880 Grand Ave. 858.829.2316 scooterandcycle.com

Searching for a perfect date is like hunting for the perfect car. It’s important to find the right body style and make sure the vehicle is equipped with the best options for a smooth ride. And you’d better check out the repair history, especially on older models, or you may end up failing a smog test. Luckily for tonight’s blind daters, no one will be pressured to sign a 24-to-36-month lease this evening. Instead, Kevin and Suzannah just need to kick the tires, enjoy an action-packed test drive… and maybe take a quick peek under the hood. Before the ride begins, let’s meet the drivers and check the Blue Book values for their vehicles.

photos by greg ramirez

Driver: Suzannah Stolba Address: Condo in University City DOB: 5/3/1981 Eyes: Blue Hair: Blonde Height: 5’5” Weight: 113 Organ Donor: Yes

SPECS: Manufactured in D.C. and on the market for six months, this 1981 model is the founder of Fresh Karat, a bi-coastal fashion accessory brand. Perfect exterior, well maintained interior, low mileage, high-performance hybrid engine. This limited Southern California-chic edition comes factory-equipped with a competitive, entrepreneurial spirit. Frequently valets at Ivy, Stingaree, Jack’s La Jolla. Supreme handling in traffic, but enjoys having the road to herself. Loves to laugh, cook, travel, workout, hike with the dog. Serial monogamist with proven ability to stay on course. Horrendous driving skills have resulted in multiple moving violations, fender benders.

SPECS: Single hardworking, Los Angeles-native, living his dream as TV chef, cookbook author, radio personality and owner of East Village Tavern & Bowl. Automatic transmission, on the market for five months, 100,000 miles but runs like new. Fast and furious driver, often parks at Oceanaire, Neighborhood, Firehouse. Exterior is in mint condition; interior is warm, fuzzy and spacious. Tenacious outlook on life, proficient at cooking and eating, values family above all else. Radio presets locked to 933, because he’s live on-air each week. Runs on high-octane fun and romance, lifetime supply included.

CO-PILOT: Engine purrs for ambitious, fun-loving guys comfortable in their own skin; sputters for pretentiousness, those trying to be something they are not. Passengers must have enough miles to be ready to settle down, start a family, find house with two-car garage. Price: available upon request.

CO-PILOT: Passengers must be educated and independent with sense of humor and East Coast mentality—blunt, to the point, no bulls#!tting around. Engine roars when women eat his food, stalls when they don’t. Personal credo: “Eat well, drink well, love well, live well.” Available for inspection. Priceless, OBO.

Driver: Kevin “Food Dude” Roberts Address: Plush downtown condo DOB: No comment Eyes: Brown Hair: Brown Height: 5’10” Weight: 165 Organ Donor: Yes

START YOUR ENGINES As the test drive begins, Kevin takes the wheel of a Rocket Car, and the daters approach Mach 1 (they approach it, but never actually get passed 20 mph) as they cruise south along the harbor from the northern tip of Harbor Island. The first pit stop is Little Italy Spaghetteria, where the daters turn over their keys and park at the bar for pre-dinner champagne.

46 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

[ Continued on page 48 ]

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LOVE

Little Italy Spaghetteria: 1953 India St., 619.398.2974 littleitalyspaghetti.com

Spaghetteria’s mascot, a 1973 FIAT 500.

NEXT STOP Adorned with authentic wine casks and rustic Italian-American decor, the interior of Little Italy Spaghetteria exudes the Old World ambiance one would expect from the Busalacchi Restaurant Group, San Diego’s first family of Italian cuisine. At the bar, Kevin and Suzannah share some spirited conversation over glasses of champagne. The bubbly now settling in, the daters decide to get behind the wheel—of a stationary vehicle, of course. Spaghetteria’s automotive mascot, a cute little 1973 Fiat 500, purrs in silent pride as the would-be road-trippers drive off into an imaginary sunset. When the need for refueling strikes, Suzannah and Kevin prepare to cruise a couple doors down India Street to Po Pazzo Bar and Grille. Before leaving for dinner, they hit the brakes for mid-date debriefings.

INSPECTION REPORT: SUZANNAH PacificSD: How’s the ride so far? Suzannah: So far so good. Kevin seems like an awesome guy. He’s nice-looking and he seems very friendly and has a good sense of humor. It’s clear that we’re both in this to have a good time and meet new fun people.

INSPECTION REPORT: KEVIN PSD: How’s it going? Kevin: This is the first blind date that I’ve ever been on. I usually don’t do anything like this, but I’m having a great time.

PSD: How was the Rocket Car experience? S: It was actually a lot of fun. Kevin was totally on the ball and we had good time.

PSD: How was the Rocket Car? K: The rocket car was hoopty. Actually, it handled very well. It was surprisingly fast and agile, but it freaked Suzannah out. She was horrified.

PSD: What do you think about Little Italy Spaghetteria? S: It’s very cool and has a nice atmosphere. It was cool to walk back and see the wine and all the barrels.

PSD: How was the Spaghetteria? K: It was absolutely perfect. The Spaghetteria is a great place. It’s really rare to get a great champagne by the glass.

PSD: Describe Kevin’s sense of style. S: Kevin is the ideally styled guy for me. He told me that this is dressing up for him, and I think that’s awesome. I don’t like guys who know more about fashion than I do.

PSD: Describe your level of physical attraction to Suzannah. K: Typical guys love that look: bleach blonde hair, nice eyes, good skin with the tan. I’m just not one of those guys.

PSD: How do you think the rest of the night will go? S: Hard to say. I’m a private person, and it takes me more than a couple of hours to get to know someone. Plus, he’s on TV, so maybe this isn’t who he really is. I don’t know... he seems like a genuine guy. Maybe we’ll exchange numbers and hang out again. PSD: If Kevin were a car, what kind of car would he be? S: He would be what he drives, a Mercedes. It’s not flashy, but it’s quality, and Kevin is a good quality guy.

48 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

PSD: Any chance for romance? K: Suzannah seems independent, smart and cute. She’s got a little bit of an attitude and she’s blunt and to the point, not like that L.A. foo-foo kind of bulls###. There’s no chance a romantic relationship could blossom from this, though. I feel like she’s the type that has to go to Stingaree and go out and be seen. And, with the business I’m in, owning the East Village Tavern & Bowl, which is located at ninth and Market, by the way, I want to be able to lay back in bed, watch a movie and just chill. PSD: If Suzannah was a car, what car would she be? K: She’d be a 2008 Corvette. I don’t drive Corvettes, though. I’m a Mercedes guy.

[ Continued on page 52 ]

NINE/08 EVENTS

STYLE

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LISTEN [concerts]

LISTEN [concerts] 9/17: Aesop Rock and Rob Sonic Belly Up Tavern » bellyup.com 9/19-20: 24th Annual Street Scene Downtown » street-scene.com (story page 40) 9/20: Janet Jackson San Diego Sports Arena » sandiegoarena.com 9/21: Luis Miguel Cricket Wireless Amphitheater » livenation.com 9/25: Kenny G Humphrey’s by the Bay » humphreysconcerts.com

9/30: Carlos Santana Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre » livenation.com

MOONDOGGIES Fri., Sat., Sun. Nights FIREHOUSE Sat., 11am - 6pm EAST VILLAGE TAVERN Football: Sun. 10am - 4pm Monday Night Football 5pm - 11pm MILLER’S FIELD Guest Bartending Theme: End of Summer Luau Sept. 17, 9pm - Close for more info, check out: myspace.com/greystreak

9/2: Ice Cube 4th & B » 4thandb.com

9/25: My Morning Jacket Open Air Theatre at SDSU » ticketmaster.com 9/27: Common Sense with LA 5 Belly Up Tavern » bellyup.com

9/3: The English Beat Del Mar Thoroughbred Club » delmarscene.com

9/28: Flogging Molly Viejas Concerts in the Park » viejasentertainment.com (story page 42)

9/5: Strunz & Farah Anthology » anthologysd.com

CHEER [HOME GAMES]

9/5: Guttermouth, Chaser and Voodoo Glow Skulls ‘Canes » canesbarandgrill.com 9/6: Slightly Stoopid and Pepper SDSU’s Open Air Theatre » livenation.com 9/6: Bob Dylan & his Band Qualcomm Stadium » ticketmaster.com

9/7: Chargers vs. Carolina Panthers 9/8-11: Padres vs. L.A. Dodgers 9/11-14: Padres vs. S.F. Giants 9/22: Chargers vs. N.Y. Jets 9/26-28: Padres vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

ADMIRE [ARTS]

9/6: Unwritten Law WaveHouse » wavehouse.com 9/12: Jaguares Viejas Concerts in the Park » viejasentertainment.com 9/13: Counting Crows and Maroon 5 Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre » livenation.com 9/14: Sister Hazel Viejas Concerts in the Park » viejasentertainment.com 9/17: Kid Rock Palomar Starlight Theater » palacasino.com

9/23-28: The Drowsy Chaperone A hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day come to life in this Tony Award-winning musical comedy. broadwaysd.com

STYLE

ADMIRE [ARTS/culture]

GET OUT [OUTDOORS] 9/7: Brazilian Day Live Brazilian music, contagious percussion, energetic dances and alegria (“happiness,” in Portugese) electrify Cass Street, in Pacific Beach. Family friendly, free admission. braziliandaysandiego.com 9/11-14: 9th Annual YachtFest San Diego See and board extravagant yachts that cost up to $25 million each. Luxury cars and other spendy toys will also be on display at Shelter Island Marina and the Island Palms Hotel. yachtfest.com

9/19: Opening Reception for Roman De Salvo: New Works See the latest works from renowned San Diego artist, Roman De Salvo, who blends his love for machines with his passion for language to create urban sculptures like “Circuit Circus” (shown above). Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. La Jolla » ljathaneum.org

9/9: Mingle @ the REP Mingle with young professionals interested in arts and culture before watching The Good Body, by playwright Eve Ensler, famous for her Obie Award-winning The Vagina Monologues. Downtown » sandiegorep.com 9/13-14: ArtWalk on the Bay Embarcadero Marina Park North (behind Seaport Village) provides a scenic venue for visual and performing arts and music. The family-friendly event provides attendees with the opportunity to meet artists and purchase original works on-site. artwalkonthebay.org 9/13-10/26: The Women Claire Booth Luce’s classic 1936 comedy comes to life in a large-scale production that tells the story of ‘30s-era Manhattan socialites who fight for love, happiness and personal dignity, while spending their lives in beauty parlors, department stores, dinner parties and psychiatrists’ chairs. Balboa Park » oldglobe.org

9/14: 17th Annual Paddle for Clean Water Festival Paddle around the Ocean Beach Pier with 1,000 other beach-lovers to promote clean water in San Diego. Enjoy live music, free breakfast (for paddlers), surf lessons and massages. surfridersd.org 9/19: 14th Annual San Diego Festival of Beer 4,000 beer lovers converge on Columbia and B Streets, downtown, to enjoy an evening of live blues, while sampling more than 150 microbrews and a selection of fine wines. Tickets are $25-$30 and include ten 4oz. beer tastings. sdbeerfest.com

EXTRAS [miscellaneous] 9/17: Taste of Downtown Taste a wide variety of the best cuisine the city has to offer. More than 40 of San Diego’s premier restaurants strut their culinary stuff in this citywide event that stretches from East Village to the Gaslamp to Little Italy. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 day of. dtsd.org 9/28-10/5: Fashion Week San Diego Paris, Milan, New York… San Diego? The city’s first ever fashion week is finally here. The seven-day event showcases avant-garde and eco-conscious creations by global designers. Attend posh parties, the 3,000-person main tent and runway shows at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina. fashionweeksd.com

9/19-28: 5th Annual Carlsbad Music Festival The annual alternative classical music festival features the next generation of cutting-edge, world-class musicians, bringing together some of the country’s most talented young performers and composers. carlsbadmusicfestival.org 9/25: La Jolla Gallery & Wine Walk Take a self-guided stroll through over 25 La Jolla art galleries, showcasing works from internationally renowned artists and offering a unique wine at each location. Along the way, enjoy specially prepared tastings from a dozen of La Jolla’s finest restaurants. lajollabythesea.com 9/27-28: 10th Annual Trolley Dances A partnership between San Diego Dance Theater and the Metropolitan Transit System brings music and dance to trolley stops throughout the city. sandiegodancetheater.org (story page 18)

SEP 14

9/20: What’s Up Girard Gimpse the latest trends in home décor along the four-block stretch of Girard Avenue that has become the La Jolla Design District. Select showrooms will host informative design seminars moderated by experts in the fields of architecture, furniture and bath design, abstract art and more. 619.795.0151 (story page 28)

NOV 15

LOVE

Po Pazzo bar & Grille:

1917 India St., Little Italy 619.238.1917 popazzo.com

THE FINAL LAP: The menu at Po Pazzo abounds with great appetizers, ample steaks, superb salads and unique side dishes. Before dinner, the daters enjoy a drink at the bar, which serves an extensive selection of fine wines and spirits. As their entrees arrive, Suzannah and Kevin are finally left alone. PacificSD calls the next day to see how the big night ended up.

Post-date interview with Suzannah: PSD: How about dinner? K: The atmosphere at Po Pazzo was great. The food was awesome, and the service was amazing. After asking Kevin for some pointers as to what to get, I had the ovenroasted halibut with Yukon Gold potatoes over garlic spinach with lemon butter sauce.

Post-date interview with Kevin: Before we could actually catch him on the phone, Kevin left a voice mail for PacificSD: “Hey, it’s Kevin Roberts returning your call. It ended up being an all-nighter. We went to Pacers and a bunch of other strip clubs and partied till like six in the morning. It was wild, baby!” That, of course, turned out to be a joke.

PSD: Are you and Kevin a good match? K: I think we have similar outlooks on life. We’re both into our careers as entrepreneurs and get excited about trying new things. He is so successful in what he’s done and doesn’t brag, and I definitely found that very attractive. He was also very witty, quick and funny. PSD: Anything you didn’t like? K: I can honestly say that there was nothing about him that turned me off. PSD: How did the night end? K: We ended up staying and talking at Po Pazzo until way after they were closed. That was pretty much it. Kevin had to get up early the next day, and so did I. Neither one of us was interested in going out later that night, so he walked me to my car, and went our separate ways. PSD: What does the future hold for Kevin and Suzannah? K: I don’t fall for guys too easily. I definitely had a good time, but I’m not easily swept off my feet. I’m very cautious. Plus, Kevin’s got an image to keep up and businesses to promote, so I still don’t know if that was the real him. He gave me his number, so I guess the ball’s in my court.

How was dinner at Po Pazzo? Dinner was amazing, and the menu was sick. The Busalacchi Family has a good little restaurant there. I’d been there before, so I knew it was going to be good food. I mean, who could beat Osso Buco, which is braised veal shank served over saffron risotto? I took some home and ate it for lunch the next day. What was the level of compatibility with Suzannah? Suzannah was very nice. We had some good conversation, and she’s a super cool girl. I mean, personality-wise we’re compatible, but she’s not my type of girl. I don’t date blondes. How did the night end? We stayed at Po Pazza for another half an hour or so. I had to get up early and do my thing, so I didn’t want make it a late night or anything. I gave her my East Village Tavern & Bowl card, in case she ever wanted to take her friends and go bowling or whatever. Did your experience teach you anything? Yeah. Don’t go on blind dates. Just chalk it up to meeting a new friend and move on.

TO THE JUNKYARD? Some cars race; others can make your heart race. Tonight, however, the pace was slower. Suzannah was out for a leisurely cruise, while Kevin seemed more inclined to park it in front of the television, undoubtedly to watch himself on the Food Network. Would reverting to her original exterior finish have made Suzannah a more attractive ride for Kevin? Was Kevin showing his true colors, or were his tinted windows simply masking ulterior motives? Hard to say. But one thing is for certain: this date was for the dogs… junkyard dogs. To find true love, it seems as though Kevin and Suzannah will have to refer back to the little black book—the Auto Trader. 52 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

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THINK

I have a cousin in San Diego that I visit a couple times a year. Beautiful city you guys have there… I hear it’s America’s Finest. But, to be honest, I couldn’t live there. I’m just not the car-owning type.

It’s true that NYC traffic can be more brutal than rush hour at the merge on the 5 north (I still don’t get the whole “The” thing with California freeways), but then

54 | SEPTEMBER 2008 « PACIFICsandiego.com

there’s an entire network of sleek subway trains that can zip me to any point in Manhattan in 30 minutes flat. I’m not totally immune to car-envy, though. There are days at the grocery store when I wish I could fill up the trunk with bulk rolls of paper towels or a couple cases of beer rather than be limited to what my two arms can carry the five blocks back to my apartment. And, on days when I want to take a nice day trip out of town, I have to wait in line at Avis with all the other car-less New Yorkers who had the same idea. But I’ve never had Porsche envy. The idea of the status-car is lost on me. I’d choose a pair of 4-inch Louboutins as my high-end mode of transportation over a new 5 Series any day. Plus, when I’m riding in a taxi, I can relax with the latest copy of Pacific San Diego, the nation’s second best magazine.

-Ann

danelian

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t dislike cars; it’s just that I like my cars yellow and waiting at the curb with a driver and a meter that quietly ticks each fifth of a mile. One of the best things about taxis is that, when I get out of the car, I’ve immediately erased the vehicle from my memory. I don’t have to circle the block endlessly looking for a space or remember where I parked it, and I don’t worry about having a second glass of wine at dinner—there’s always a half a dozen designated drivers circling the block.

photo by stephen

taxicab confessions Ann Shoket is editor-in-chief of Seventeen Magazine. She has lived in New York City for 18 years and has three pairs of Louboutins.

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