PACIFIC San Diego Magazine, December 2017

JAY-Z

The time for4:44 has arrivedWIN

+

TS TICKIEDE INSES E PAGE 88 LS FOR DETAI

HOLIDAY EVENTS, PERFORMANCES AND GIFT IDEAS, CUBAN DELIGHTS, INSPIRED APRONS AND STIFF DRINKS WITH ‘THE GUY’

DECEMBER 2017 PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

PACK YOUR BAGS

Go on a spree through San Diego’s shopping districts

FTW

Blind daters play the field of love

SUGAR HIGH

Vodka company distills with leftover baked goods

Relax responsibly . Corona Extra ®

®

and Corona Light® Beers. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL

Home Games At The Valley View Casino Center

Affordable & Fun Sports Entertainment!Â

editor n ote

’s

The Gift of Adventure This year, as has been a tradition in previous December issues, we asked people featured in the magazine to tell us the best and worst presents they’ve ever received.

After reading the responses, some of which are featured on this page, others of which will appear on social media throughout December, it got me thinking about gifts I’ve gotten over the years.

Bear with me as I get a bit nostalgic.

When we’re young, all we want are the newest, hippest toys that all our friends had or were also asking for. Among the coolest gifts I can remember getting were a boom box, Cabbage Patch kid, Barbie Corvette and a fishing pole (yes, in a former life, I loved fishing).

In our teens and 20s, we want — well, to be totally honest, I can’t remember what I wanted most. I’m going to guess it was something having to do with a trend or fad at the time — something fleeting.

And now, for me, it’s less about getting gifts and more about sharing experiences that matters most. At the risk of sounding like my parents, maybe that has something to do with how much busier life seems to be, and how time seems to disappear before my eyes.

But I don’t seem to be alone here. The desire to trade in everyday life for exploration of new (or familiar) places was echoed

by others featured in this month’s magazine.

Blogger Conni Jespersen, who shares some of her top gifts to give on page 52, said her favorite gift was a trip to Paris. Joe Santos, chief operating officer of GBOD, who just opened Havana 1920 (page 66), said his favorite gift was “a planned (paid) vacation.”

And if they hadn’t already received an adventure as a gift, it was at the top of many people’s wish list. Sam Chereskin of Misadventure Vodka (page 82) would like a Caribbean vacation.

And, for a different kind of adventurous gift, Chereskin’s business partner Whit Rigali just wants a snow day.

So whether it’s just a short drive to the mountains for apple pie in Julian or something more grand like a week in Cabo, think about giving the gift of time and adventure to your friends and family this holiday season. I guarantee it will be something they remember long after the trendy item of the year disappears.

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?

A trip to Paris. I’m all about the experiences as gifts. I think they make the best memories. Two years ago, I spent a month in Paris for an International Field Studies course I was taking. I was missing it tremendously. So last year, my husband gifted me a trip back there. I was eternally grateful to get to embrace the city I adore again.

— Conni Jespersen, Art in the Find A planned (paid) vacation.

— Joe Santos, Havana 1920

What do you want this year?

A short Caribbean vacation.

— Sam Chereskin, Misadventure Vodka A snow day would be amazing. That way I can drink hot toddies all day in a onsie with friends, guilt free.

— Whit Rigali, Misadventure Vodka

6

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Sincerely, Leslie Hackett Editor-in-Chief

VOL. #11

ISSUE #12

DECEMBER 2017

E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F / D I G I TA L D I R E C TO R

Leslie Hackett C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R

Kenny Boyer M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Jennifer Ianni D I R E C TO R O F P H OTO G R A P H Y

John McCutchen C O P Y E D I TO R

Monica Hodes-Smail

Outstanding oceanfront dining in the heart of Del Mar. Since 1968.

C O N T R I B U T I N G I L LU ST R ATO R

Cristina Byvik CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Benninger, Don Chareunsy, Lisa Deaderick, Teri Figueroa, Nina Hall, James Hebert, Pam Kragen, Scott McDonald, Peter Rowe 1670 Coast Blvd., del Mar | (858) 755-9345 |

poseidonrestaurant.CoM

C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E R S

K.C. Alfred, David Brooks, Nelvin C. Cepeda, Eduardo Contreras E D I TO R I A L I N T E R N

Chris Madaffer

YEARS

HOLIDAY GIFTS WTH A CREATIVE TWIST

PUBLISHER

David Perloff

Skate, Create & Celebrate

with a wide range of activities, celebrations, shopping and dining throughout the month.

V I C E P R E S I D E N T O F SA L E S

Paul Ingegneri M U LT I M E D I A AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S

Lisa Marsolais, Laura J. Schwartz, Alyson Tietze D I ST R I B U T I O N M A N AG E R

Greg Johannsen

OPEN STUDIOS & PERFORMANCES

FRIDAY NIGHT LIBERTY

HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA DECEMBER 1 • 5-9 PM

ARTSDISTRICTLibertyStation.com

Facebook “f ” Logo

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

A SUBSIDIARY OF THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE Reach America’s finest readers via print, web, social, email, street team and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! PACIFIC is a media property owned by The San Diego Union-Tribune.

619.296.6300 10

CMYK / .ai

|

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

|

@PACIFICSD

E I S E N OXmas Party!

Christmas Day | Doors Open at 5PM Christmas Day | Doors Open at 5PM Come out in your best onesie/pajamas Come out in your 1/2 best onesie/pajamas & receive off drinks & receive 1/2 off drinks Dj’s chris cutz and billy the kid Dj’s chris cutz and billy the kid

VISIT ONE OF OUR 7 LOCATIONS: TAJIMA EAST VILLAGE | TAJIMA NORTH PARK | TAJIMA HILLCREST TAJIMA CONVOY | TAJIMA MERCURY | TAJIMA LONG BEACH | TAJIMA TIJUANA

TAJIMASANDIEGO.COM

 /TAJIMARESTAURANTS



@TAJIMARESTAURANTS



@TAJIMASANDIEGO

Wedding photogr aphy B a s e d i n S a n D i e g o , ava i l a b l e f o r t r av e l w o r l d w i d e

were

yo u e x p e c t i n g a c o u p l e wa l k i n g i n a f i e l d a t s u n s e t ?

w w w. wa l t e r w i l s o n s t u d i o s . c o m

Tu l u m , M e x i c o

CONTENTS

T W E LV E . S E V E N T E E N / F E AT U R E S

DECEMBER

FEATURES 56 BUY & BUY Explore your options with unique,

18

local shopping experiences in San Diego’s stylish neighborhoods

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

ON THE COVER: One of the rap game’s biggest names, Jay-Z, gives San Diego an early Christmas present with his 4:44 tour stop at Viejas Arena on Dec. 19. See Groove, page 88. Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.

ON THIS PAGE: A selection of plants and succulents from Pigment’s living wall. Pigment is a top shopping destination in North Park. See story, page 56.

Born in with an accent.

OUR LATEST EXPRESSION pays tribute to American whiskey’s contribution to single malt Scotch and the American oak bourbon barrels that have shaped the flavor of Scotch whisky for generations.

It is matured 14 years in bourbon heritage barrels and then finished in new American oak barrels from Kelvin Cooperage in Kentucky.

The resulting whisky combines the smooth, fruit-filled complexity of Speyside with the bold vanilla punch and caramel richness of Kentucky.

U.S. Exclusive

Certified Kosher

SKILLFULLY CRAFTED. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. GLENFIDDICH.COM

GLENFIDDICH SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY, 43% ALC./VOL. ©2015 IMPORTED BY WILLIAM GRANT & SONS. NEW YORK, NY.

T W E LV E . S E V E N T E E N / D E PA RT M E N T S

DEPARTMENTS CURRENTS 24 December.Seventeen

Events calendar 36 Laughing Stock December stand-up comedy shows PULSE 40 Art Beat December gallery & exhibition openings 46 Curtain Calls December performing arts preview 50 Food Meets Fashion Chef Angelo Sosa launches stylish line of upscale aprons 52 Lessons in Styling Former teacher Conni Jespersen left the classroom behind to tutor clients in finding the perfect outfit for every occasion TA S T E 66 Havana Nights Authentic Cuban vibes unleashed at new Gaslamp restaurant/bar 70 Take it From the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here 78 Behind the (Joy)Stick Coin-Op Gaslamp’s master mixologist is at the top of his game 82 Let Them Drink Cake San Marcos company Misadventure Vodka hits on spirited idea: Turn recycled baked goods into vodka GROOVE 88 Sounds Like a Plan December concert calendar 100 Take a Spin Upcoming EDM and DJ performances LOVE 104 Playing the Field A soccer pro and a Seattleite search for common goals

20

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

San Diego Sockers player Eli slides up to meet his date McKenna in this month’s blind date.

Will their date be pitch perfect? See story, page 104. Photo by K.C. Alred.

DECEMBER

CURRENTS

T W E LV E . S E V E N T E E N / E V E N T S

DECEMBER

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

Toast of Gaslamp

12.9

THROUGHOUT THE GASLAMP GASLAMP.ORG

Save your cheat day for this decadent evening chock full of cocktails and bites from 20 of the Gaslamp’s top restaurants, then score some scorching deals at 20 of downtown’s most desirable retailers. >>>

24

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

DAV I D Y U

COMING TO A THEATER NEAR YOU 12.1 H E’S OUT THERE 12.8 THE SHAPE OF WATER, JUST GETTING STARTED 12.15 FERDINAND, STAR WARS: EPISODE VIII THE LAST JEDI 12.20 JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE, THE GREATEST SHOWMAN 12.22 PITCH PERFECT 3, DOWNSIZING, FATHER FIGURES

THROUGH 1.7 GLOBAL WINTER WONDERLAND

THE SHAPE OF WATER

SDCCU STADIUM, MISSION VALLEY, globalwonderland.com Indulge in international cuisine amid illuminated landscapes at this weeks-long celebration of multicultural holidays featuring shopping, carnival rides and a visit from St. Nick himself.

A Fairy Tale for Troubled Times Directed by Guillermo Del Toro Starring Michael Shannon, Doug Jones, Sally Hawkins Set in Baltimore SPOTLIGHT during the height of the IN THEATERS Cold War, a December mute cleaning woman working in a government facility discovers a classified creature confined to a tank.

12.14 2ND ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE ROTARY PLAZA, CORONADO, coronadochamber.com Start the yuletide season in style at this traditional hometown parade set to a soundtrack of carolers. One lucky family will have the chance to light up Star Pine, the island community’s giant holiday tree.

8

12.13 VS STOCKTON HEAT 12.16 VS STOCKTON HEAT 12.22 VS ONTARIO REIGN 12.27 VS TUCSON ROADRUNNERS

SAN DIEGO SOCKERS HOME GAMES 12.3 VS SONORA SOLES 12.17 VS TURLOCK EXPRESS

12.1, 2 40TH ANNUAL DECEMBER NIGHTS

26

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

MISAEL VIRGEN

BALBOA PARK, sandiego.gov Admission to this iconic two-day extravaganza includes international food samples, plus access to exhibitions and entertainment at the park’s many museums. >>>

C H A D D C A DY

SAN DIEGO GULLS HOME GAMES

Offers expire December 31, September 31,2017 Sep 31,2 31 ,2017 0172017. Not valid with other offers. Must mention when booking. Offers are subject to change and may be discontinued at any time. Owned and Operated by Vishal Verma, MD. and Vinita Parekh, DDS.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

27

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

UNIVERSITY AVE., NORTH PARK toylandparade.com Marching bands, vintage cars, beauty queens and more stroll between Utah and Iowa streets during this festive event.

N E LV I N C . C E P E DA

12.2 54TH ANNUAL NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE & FESTIVAL

C I T Y O F E N C I N I TA S

12.2 2017 ENCINITAS HOLIDAY PARADE

COAST HIGHWAY 101, ENCINITAS encinitaschamber.com Schmooze your way onto any of nearly 100 floats or join the throngs of cheering spectators during this Coast Highway tradition that culminates with a tree-lighting ceremony and a cameo by Kris Kringle.

12.2 ISLAND FOOD AND BEER FEST WATERFRONT PARK, LITTLE ITALY facebook.com/ coconutsandcocktailspromotions Knock back unlimited tastings of locally brewed beer, then soak up those suds with delicious dishes from the Pacific Islands prepared by some legendary local restaurants.

DAV I D H O D G E S

12.2 CHULA VISTA STARLIGHT PARADE

THIRD AVENUE VILLAGE, CHULA VISTA starlightparade.com Bring the family to this holiday-themed parade including a snack alley, science and technology labs, and Mrs. Claus’ gingerbread bounce house.

28

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

BILL WECHTER

CIVIC CENTER, VISTA vistachamber.org See some of Vista’s best and brightest community groups during this parade that commences at the Civic Center and winds down at the Wave Waterpark.

12.2 19TH LITTLE ITALY TREE LIGHTING AND CHRISTMAS VILLAGE INDIA ST., LITTLE ITALY, LITTLEITALYSD.COM Enjoy holiday shopping, horse-carriage rides and a 25-foot poinsettia tower while soaking in Little Italy’s charm amid live entertainment and an endless variety of holiday treats. >>>

H O WA R D L I P I N

12.2 59TH ANNUAL VISTA CHRISTMAS PARADE

R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H

DOWNTOWN, 92101

2 BED + DEN | 2.5 BATH | 2,330 SQ FT | $1,949,900 - $2,049,900 Chic, modern design encompasses this beautiful 2-bedroom-plus-den luxury-view condo at Parkloft. Enjoy panoramic ballpark and city views from just about every room of this exquisite property. Features chef’s gourmet kitchen with professional-series Viking appliances, custom cabinetry with generous storage, huge island with 6-burner range and hood. Exquisite walnut-andglass barn-style sliding doors with modern hardware tastefully separate bedrooms and bathroom spaces. Includes one of the largest master bedrooms and closets in Downtown with resort-style bathroom sparkling with dual vanity, premier relaxation tub, enormous shower and massive walk-in closet with high-end built-ins. A mix of crystal chandeliers and vintage Edison lighting add a refined contrast to the concrete ceilings and exposed pipes in true loft fashion. Enjoy 2 balconies, 2 parking spaces and storage in penthouse-level parking garage. Parkloft features only 120 residences with lobby, 24-hour concierge, fitness center, tranquil courtyard and superb location just 2 blocks from the Gaslamp Quarter. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.

877 Island #906, San Diego, CA 92101

DOWNTOWN MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 239 # of homes sold: 78 (Oct.) Highest price: $4,800,000 Lowest price: $278,000 Average home price: $552,957

We are finishing out 2017 and looking forward to 2018 with only about a month left. Inventory is still tight with the lack of new construction in recent years. We are excited about the opening of Pacific Gate and the inventory it could bring. With rent projected to rise again in 2018, buying a home will continue to be the better option - if you are interested in exploring buying or selling a property in downtown, give us a call: 619-356-3099.

Chad@DanneckerandAssociates.com | @welcometosandiego.com #welcometosandiego | @WelcometoSD 875 G St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101

|

619.356.3099

|

BRE#01459513

CHAD DANNECKER WELCOME TO SAN DIEGO REAL ESTATE - DANNECKER & ASSOCIATES

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

NEWPORT AVE., OCEAN BEACH obtowncouncil.org With a theme of California Dreamin’ in the Season of Love, and showcasing classic Woodies, VW Beetles, and the Roller Derby Dolls, O.B.’s holiday parade is bound to bring out the neighborhood’s best.

CORKY MCMILLIN EVENT CENTER, LIBERTY STATION, libertystation.com Cross any remaining names off your shopping list at this pop-up holiday market offering a curated selection of local fashion, handmade gifts and vintage treasures from 150 vendors

12.2 SUGAR RUSH 5K EMBARCADERO MARINA PARK NORTH, LITTLE ITALY, thesugarrush5k.com In this unique exhibit of athleticism, participants consume a Krispy Kreme Donut at each mile marker before celebrating over games such as corn hole, giant checkers and ladder ball.

NICOLE SMITH

12.3 60TH ANNUAL LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE & HOLIDAY FESTIVAL GIRARD AVE., LA JOLLA ljparade.com Sporting a new Christmas Jewels theme for 2017, this yearly parade through downtown La Jolla gives guests a glimpse of the community’s incredible talent.

12.3 SONO FEST CHILI COOK-OFF

12.3

5TH ANNUAL OVER THE EDGE FOR BRAIN CANCER MANCHESTER GRAND HYATT, DOWNTOWN, ABC2.ORG Try not to lose your lunch while rappelling down the tallest building on downtown’s waterfront during this no-experience-necessary event benefiting brain-cancer research.

30

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

32ND AND THORN STREETS, NORTH PARK sonofestchilicookoff.com More than three dozen of the city’s best restaurants compete in this chili smackdown brimming with craft beverages, three stages of live music and food trucks (for those who abhor beans). >>>

R AC H A E L S M I T H P H O T O G R A P H Y

12.3 HOLIDAY BAZAAR

JOHN GIBBINS

12.2 38TH ANNUAL OCEAN BEACH HOLIDAY PARADE

R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H

PACIFIC BEACH, 92109 Turnkey 3-bed 2.5-bath 2-story home in Pacific Beach with views to the ocean and downtown. Remodeled in 2011 down to the studs, this home features an open and bright floorplan, solar, wood floors, spacious kitchen with granite counters and breakfast bar, 2 bedrooms and full bath on first floor, upstairs master retreat with tub and separate tiled shower, office space plus bonus loft area. The large Trex deck and lush backyard are perfect for entertaining. Detached 2-car garage with alley access for a total of 3 garage spaces.

1635 Beryl St., Pacific Beach, 92109; $1,500,000

POINT LOMA MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 98 # of homes sold: 35 (Oct.) Highest price: $13,748,000 Lowest price: $285,000 Average price: $1,381,755

We are in the last quarter of the year, and the holidays have arrived. The market remains strong, with inventory levels stable and more buyers looking based on low interest rates, holiday time-off and the need to move up or purchase a new home or investment. Sellers are also encouraged to put properties on the market as there’s less competition during the holiday months as well. It’s always a great time to buy and sell in San Diego as we are a sought-after city with a temperate climate and so many activities to do and be a part of and enjoy.

MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI

MelissaTucci.com | Sold@MelissaTucci.com 1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116

|

619.787.6852

|

BRE # 01380034

No. 1 ranked Coldwell Banker agent/broker and official real estate agent of the San Diego Padres.

BROKER/REALTOR (R)

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

3PIXSTUDIOS

12.9 5TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO SANTA RUN

CHARLIE NEUMAN

DOWNTOWN, MAKERSARCADE.COM Meet makers, listen to live music and express yourself at the make-and-take craft center during this one-of-a-kind event that includes scrumptious bites, a free photo booth and finely crafted cocktails.

N E LV I N C . C E P E DA

GARNET AVE., PACIFIC BEACH, SANDIEGOSANTARUN.COM Run with 3,000 Santas through the streets of P.B., then put your free drink ticket to good use at the post-race celebration, which wraps up right before the neighborhood’s holiday parade begins.

12.10, 17 46TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS

BRIANA MARY PHOTO

12.9 4TH ANNUAL MAKERS ARCADE FAIR PORT PAVILION AT BROADWAY PIER,

32

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

12.15 RED NOSE RUN 12.10 10TH ANNUAL GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE MLK PROMENADE PARK, DOWNTOWN HOLIDAYPETPARADE.COM Pet owners and their companions from the animal kingdom are invited to don costumes and compete in any of nine categories during this romp through the Gaslamp Quarter.

DEL MAR BEACH, DEL MAR THEREDNOSE RUN.COM Choose between a 3K or 5K course for this dog-friendly fun-run fully managed by volunteers and benefiting two local nonprofits. >>> H AY N E PA L M O U R I V

OCEANSIDE HARBOR, OCEANSIDE VISITOCEANSIDE.ORG Bring a blanket, a jacket and some hot cocoa to sip on while watching decked-out boats of all shapes and sizes float amid this seafaring celebration along O’side’s coast.

NANCEE E. LEWIS

12.9 OCEANSIDE HARBOR PARADE OF LIGHTS

SAN DIEGO BAY, DOWNTOWN SDPARADEOFLIGHTS.ORG More than 100,000 locals are expected to attend this bayfront tradition showcasing 80 lavishly decorated boats fitting this year’s theme: Arrrgh! A Pirate’s Christmas.

‘Tis the Season For Giving & Receiving

Buy A Gift Card & Receive a gift card

Buy $25-Get $5 Buy $50-Get $10 Buy $100-Get $25

SAN D I EG O | 3 2 2 5 TH AV E NUE | S A N D IEGO CA 9 21 01 | COLD B EERS .COM | 6 1 9 . 54 6 . 9 2 9 2

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

12.15-16 QUEEN BEE MARKET DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS, DEL MAR THEQUEENBEEMARKET.COM The city’s original urban-style, artisan market features more than 100 local and national vendors specializing in handmade and vintage accessories, along with clothing, home décor, furniture and more.

12.16 12 BARS OF CHARITY VARIOUS LOCATIONS AROUND DOWNTOWN AND LITTLE ITALY, 12BARSOFCHARITY.COM Dedicated drinkers can donate $10 to join any of eight charity teams before taking a free shuttle to a dozen participating watering holes offering a variety of drink specials.

12.17 GREAT CHOCOLATE RACE DOWNTOWN TO BALBOA PARK GREATCHOCOLATERACE.COM Go on a scenic 5K- or 10-mile run through downtown, Hillcrest and Balboa Park, then be treated to truffles and cocoa upon arriving at the Fifth Avenue finish line.

12.28-1.1 SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

P E G G Y P E AT T I E

SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER, DOWNTOWN SDAUTOSHOW.COM Auto aficionados are welcome to feast their eyes on more than 400 vehicles from 40 manufacturers at this year’s show, including many 2017 and 2018 models that haven’t yet hit the road.

12.28 SAN DIEGO COUNTY HOLIDAY BOWL

NORTH HARBOR DR., DOWNTOWN HOLIDAYBOWL.COM This larger-than-life balloon parade begins on downtown’s bayside streets and brings together world-class marching bands and entertaining drill teams amid a sea of awe-inspiring inflatables.

SDCCU STADIUM, MISSION VALLEY HOLIDAYBOWL.COM Two Division I football teams will face off after a heart-pounding pregame featuring marching bands, parachute jumpers and a football-fieldsized American flag.

34

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

JOHN GIBBINS

K.C. ALFRED

12.28 HOLIDAY BOWL PARADE

CU R R E N T S

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

COMEDY

LAUGHING STOCK

DECEMBER STAND-UP ROUNDUP 12.4 TRAILER PARK BOYS Ricky: “Suck it Donny!”

Donny: “You suck it, Ricky. More!”

Ricky: “What the f**k kind of comeback was that? You said the same thing that I said, but you just added ‘more’ to it.”

Donny: “No! More! You suck it more!”

Ricky: “You’re a f**kin’ dick!”

—Trailer Park Boys in Trailer Park Boys: The Movie @ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org

12.8 BOB SAGET “My girlfriend just made me the best home-cooked chili. Hope she doesn’t mind getting a whiff of it at 2 AM.” — Bob Saget on Twitter @ Harrah’s Resort SoCal, harrahssocal.com

12.8-10 TOMMY DAVIDSON “I’m from D.C. You see, D.C.’s the blackest city on Earth. Chuck E. Cheese is black in D.C. Everything’s black.”

— Tommy Davidson on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

36

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

12.11 CAROL BURNETT “Giving birth is like taking your lower lip and forcing it over your head.”

— Carol Burnett in Yes Please @ Copley Symphony Hall, sandiegosymphony.org

12.15-16 ALYCIA COOPER “I dated a 400-pound vegetarian. That was a whole lot of broccoli.

And he had the nerve to ask if I was bisexual.

He said, ‘Are you bisexual? Cause I only date women who are bisexual.’ I was like, ‘Hell, yeah. If you buyin’, I’m sexual.’”

— Alycia Cooper at Bally’s Las Vegas @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

12.21-23 BRAD WILLIAMS “If I ever go to prison, I’m gonna tell everyone my nickname on the outside was Butthole Teeth.”

— Brad Williams on Twitter @ American Comedy Co., american comedyco.com

12.29-30 CHRIS D’ELIA “But, girls, you can get at us like that. You really can. And here’s why. All right? Because as men, all we want in life, no matter what we do in our lives, the real reason we’re doing it is to get you. That’s what we want. No matter what we do, whatever it is, the real reason is to get in... in you, really, is the truth. I know, it’s true. We drive nice cars, we don’t care what wheel we’re behind. We just want for when we drive by for you to go... ‘wait--wa--eh!’ and then you get in the car, and we get in you. That’s what we want.”

— Chris D’Elia on Incorrigible @ House of Blues San Diego, houseofblues.com/sandiego

12.29-31 ERIK GRIFFIN “You can’t have a fat Jesus. Fat Jesus would change the whole story. Imagine you put 250 pounds on any story, and it’s gonna be different.

Imagine the logistics of trying to get Fat Jesus on the cross.

You gotta have a rope and pulley system.

They’re trying to nail him, he’s sliding down. All the miracles would be different.

He’s walking on water... waist deep. The Last Supper would be a buffet, you know what I mean?”

— Erik Griffin at The Laugh Factory @ The Comedy Store, lajolla. thecomedystore.com

12.29-31 JESSIMAE PELUSO “Being pretty has nothing to do with getting a dude.

You guys just like holes.

Why do you think golf is so popular? Eighteen holes for you and your buddies to jam your balls into all day long.”

— Jessimae Peluso at The Stand @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

PHOTOS: TRAILER PARK BOYS BY KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES; BOB SAGET BY SANDRA DAHDAH/GETTY IMAGES; TOMMY DAVIDSON BY TOMMASO BODDI/GETTY IMAGES FOR NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC; CAROL BURNETT BY KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES; BRAD WILLIAMS BY EMMA MCINTYRE/GETTY IMAGES; CHRIS D’ELIA BY ETHAN MILLER/GETTY IMAGES; ERIK GRIFFIN BY MATT WINKELMEYER/GETTY IMAGES; JESSIMAE PELUSO BY JESSE GRANT/GETTY IMAGES; BRETT KREISCHER BY JEFFKATZPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.

12.7-10

BERT KREISCHER “I’m not homophobic at all. I’m not. I’m not. I’m definitely not. I’m more like a homochondriac. Like, I’m comfortable if you’re gay.

I’m comfortable with your lifestyle. I’m just afraid one night you’ll get me drunk and trick me into it... and I’ll like it. That’s my fear. That I’ll like it and be good at it.”

— Bert Kreischer on The Machine @ The Comedy Store lajolla.thecomedystore.com

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

37

A mobile dispensary at your home, in as little as 20 minutes.

Call 1-800-CANNABIS to enjoy the nation’s finest cannabis experience.

New patients - enjoy the best first-time-patient gift in California: your choice of a complimentary edible, complimentary flower AND complimentary pre-roll in addition to our ever-evolving patient gift bag.

Get your doctor’s recommendation online in about 15 minutes at MDelivers.HelloMD.com, and then have marijuana in your hands in less than an hour.

MDelivers.com

The Element of Wellness

1.800.CANNABIS

ART BEAT / GALLERY & EXHIBIT OPENINGS

DECEMBER

BY LISA DEADERICK

“Eve Seriagraph,” by Lenore Simon.

12.9-3.11.18

LENORE SIMON: QUEST / A SOLO SHOW

40

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

SPARKS GALLERY, 530 SIXTH AVE., DOWNTOWN 619.696.1416, SPARKSGALLERY.COM Artist Lenore Simon took on learning digital illustration in her 80s, and this exhibit will feature her earliest works alongside her latest foray into digital art. >>>

P U L S E A R T B E AT

THIS PAGE (clockwise from top left): A panel at the Speculative Dolphin Theatre exhibit (Alex Matthews for The Qualcomm Institute/UC San Diego); “Young Blood,” by Richard Salcido; “Flo Mingo,” by Denise Bledsoe.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Wearing Blanket - Navajo Dazzler (gift of Margaret A. Cargill/The Akaloa Resource Foundation).

THROUGH 12.8 SPECULATIVE DOLPHIN THEATRE gallery@calit2 in Atkinson Hall at UC San Diego 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla 858.534.2860, visarts.ucsd.edu This video and sound installation was created by an artist and cognitive scientist to explore the communication of dolphins, featuring spoken-word interpretations of dolphins’ interactions with each other.

12.9-1.6.18 DENISE BLEDSOE AND VALENCY GENIS: COMFORT CREATURES Distinction Gallery 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido 760.781.5779, distinctionart.com Artists Denise Bledsoe and Valency Genis have created sculptures specifically for this show, featuring ceramic and oil-based clays and unique animals influenced by everything from Dr. Seuss to dioramas from natural history museums.

42

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

12.9-1.7.18: GO FIGURE Thumbprint Gallery, 920 Kline St., La Jolla, 858.354.6294, thumbprintgallerysd.com A celebration of figurativism, featuring works by various artists who offer different perspectives of the real world through their creations.

12.9-5.13.18: WEAVING A PATH: NAVAJO WOMEN AND THE FEMININE ETHOS Mingei International Museum, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003, mingei.org Rugs, blankets and other textiles featuring geometric designs and patterns have been created by Diné (Navajo) women, who weave as part of a spiritual and economic process of survival. >>>

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

43

P U L S E A R T B E AT

12.13-30: ROCK THE LENS: SAN DIEGO GEOLOGICAL (ROCK) FORMATION ART Gallery 21 at Spanish Village Art Center, 1770 Village Art Center, Balboa Park, 619.233.9050, spanishvillageart.com Rock formations with unique patterns and rich colors were photographed along the Southern California coastline, taking one shot with a telephoto lens to give the appearance of abstract pictures.

“Super Swirl,” by Lacy Lewis.

ANTHONY’s

FISH GROTTO Beautiful & Unique Setting SD’s Favorite Seafood Dog-friendly Outdoor Dining & Play Area

La Mesa 1210

44

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

A Great Choice for Holiday Groups & Parties

619-463-0368 • 9530 Murray Drive, 91942

→ANTHONYSFISHGROTTO.COM←

12.16-31: MARYELLENE DEASON: FEATHERS, FLOWERS AND FUR Gallery 23 at Spanish Village Art Center, 1770 Village Art Center, Balboa Park, 619.233.9050, spanishvillageart.com Along with the exhibit open, each day artist Maryellene Deason invites art lovers to join her at a brunch reception on Dec. 23 to celebrate this exhibit with her.

THROUGH 3.18.18 ELLEN DIETER: COLOR, JOY, SHAPE, VITALITY Oceanside Museum of Art 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3720, oma-online.org Embracing the inspiration she finds from her inner world and the world outside of her, artist Ellen Dieter puts the two worlds together to create compositions of modern life.

THROUGH 3.18.18 JULIA SAN ROMAN: THE INFINITE HOPE Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3720, oma-online.org Science, painting and art history converge in artist Julia San Roman’s pieces, with rigid lines against soft clouds or sharp bird shapes over dark, indistinct clouds to evoke the sounds of Flamenco hand clapping.

THROUGH 3.18.18: NEIL BROOKS: LITTLE DOORS CLOCKWISE (from top): “Peony,” by Maryellene Deason; “Bubble Girl,” by Ellen Dieter; “In the Canyon,” by Neil Brooks; “Glimmer, Lichens and Flouds,” by Julia San Román.

Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3720, oma-online.org These large-scale paintings contain the essence of North County with “little doors” of marks and color on the canvas.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

45

P U L S E

BY JAMES HEBERT

PERFORMING ARTS

CURTAIN CALLS DECEMBER PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMANCES

12.1-3: RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, broadwaysd.com That slipper is around here somewhere: The new-ish musicalstage version of the fairy-tale favorite waltzes into town again.

12.1-12.17: INTO THE WOODS Sapphire Theatre Co. at the Tenth Avenue Arts Center 930 Tenth Ave., downtown 619.384.4781, sapphiretheatrecompany.com The young, ambitious company takes on the Stephen Sondheimcomposed riff on fairy tales — born at the Old Globe 31 years ago.

12.1-24: MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: A LIVE MUSICAL RADIO PLAY San Diego Musical Theatre at the Horton Grand 444 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp 858.560.5740, sdmt.org The beloved story of a department-store Santa who might be the real deal gets the musical treatment once more in this encore of last year’s SDMT success.

12.1-24: A CHRISTMAS CAROL

12.1 BILL MURRAY, JAN VOGLER AND FRIENDS: NEW WORLDS CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO 340 N. ESCONDIDO BLVD., ESCONDIDO 800.988.4253, ARTCENTER.ORG Murray — the actor and sometime North County resident — will read from American classics and sing standards, alongside German cellist Vogler and others. (So we got that going for us. Which is nice.)

46

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Cygnet Theatre 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town 619.337.1525, cygnettheatre.com Scrooge keeps on doing his penny-pinching thing — at least until those ghosts show up — in Cygnet’s rich Victorian revival.

12.1-30: FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Lamb’s Players Theatre 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado 619.437.6000, lambsplayers.org Lamb’s keeps it yuletide-y with A Fargo Christmas, a play that’s brand-new to the long-running Festival tradition.

12.8-10: DICKENS UNSCRIPTED North Coast Rep 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach 858.481.1055, northcoastrep.org

The Christmas Carol author gets the improv treatment in this freewheeling, full-length piece from L.A.’s Impro Theatre.

12.14-24: AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS Lamb’s Players Theatre at the U.S. Grant Hotel 326 Broadway, downtown 619.437.6000, lambsplayers.org The holidays will be grand at the Grant once again as Lamb’s Players rolls out its sumptuous feast-andtheater ode to Christmas circa 1917.

12.16: JANE LYNCH: A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS California Center for the Arts, Escondido 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org The star of TV (Glee) and stage (Annie on Broadway) serves up favorite Christmas songs and stories with a twist of wit.

12.21: THE GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER Moscow Ballet at the Jacobs Music Center 750 B St., downtown 619.235.0804, nutcracker.com The Russian company’s sprawling production of the Tchaikovsky favorite will put more than 100 artists onstage — not to mention towering puppets and a live Christmas tree.

12.21-23: THE NUTCRACKER San Diego Ballet at UC San Diego Mandeville Center, 9500 Gilman Dr. 619.294.7378, sandiegoballet.org Members of the San Diego Children’s Choir will accompany the ballet in this full-scale production of the holiday classic.

12.26-31: MOTOWN THE

MUSICAL San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, broadwaysd.com This is one jukebox musical that’s bursting with tunes — some 60 of them altogether, encompassing decades of Motown hits.

P U L S E

BY DON CHAREUNSY PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

PRO FILE

MEETS

FOOD FASHION CHEF ANGELO SOSA LAUNCHES STYLISH LINE OF UPSCALE APRONS

W

ith grease popping up from pans, savory sauces splashing around and a host of other foods flying from one surface to the next, it can be tough staying clean in the kitchen.

But a new line of upscale aprons aims to stop stains in their tracks.

Earlier this year, restaurateur, cookbook author and two-time Top Chef cheftestant Angelo Sosa launched AOSbySOSA aprons for chefs and artisans, which are created in San Marcos. In addition to the apron line being based in North County, the chef, who was the runner-up in Season 7 of Top Chef and returned the next season for the All-Stars edition, made San Diego his home.

Sosa, who has an infectious laugh, recently chatted with PACIFIC over cups of java at Lofty Coffee in Solana Beach, and the topics ranged from moving to Southern California and launching AOSbySOSA (AOS stands for “Art of Simplicity”) to meditation and the importance of philanthropy.

When did you move to San Diego?

After Poppy Den (an off-Strip Asianfusion restaurant at which Sosa was chef/co-owner), I went back

50

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

to New York City, where I lived for a year. I wanted to be in a warmer climate and next to the beach, so I moved here over a year ago and started fresh. Over the last year, I’ve learned a lot and had a lot of great lessons and teachings.

You meditate every morning in Carlsbad now?

That’s why I was late (laughs). I was in New York City for 15 years, 16 including the last year, and there it’s the grind — the hustle and bustle, that was my experience of it. When I lived in Las Vegas, I lived near Red Rock Canyon, and it was so beautiful — I wasn’t accustomed to (the beauty). I was used to going to work, going home, going to work, going home, that was my routine (in New York).

Coming out here, I’m more connected to nature than I’ve ever been. With meditation, I wanted to find that inner peace, and meditation has been the conduit to it. I go to the lagoon in Carlsbad, and it’s my sanctuary.

Tell me about your new line of aprons. What was the inspiration for them?

I’m so excited. Coming out West was like a resurrection for me, letting go of the past and creating something new.

When we talk about meditation and creativity, I feel like I’m so connected to me, and I’m able to create what is within me.

We created this beautiful line about seven months ago; it’s called AOS — Art of Simplicity.

That mantra is something that was indoctrinated in me working for four years with Jean-Georges Vongerichten (James Beard Award-winning French chef). He was about the ingredient comes first, the simplicity, holding back.

There is true maturity in that, and it’s not about our egos.

Taking that mantra, the aprons are for chefs, and we want chefs to feel stylish in the kitchen. As a chef, we want to work with the most fabulous ingredients.

We want to source the right materials. All of the fabrics at AOS are from Turkey and Italy.

sa AOSbySos n ro Ap 8

9 run $88n-$be and ca ed at purchas a.com. aosbysos

I hand source them myself. The vintage line we’re launching this fall is the first time the fabrics are from the U.S., but all of the aprons are made in the U.S. Your aprons are manufactured in San Diego?

Yes, everything is local, everything is hand-stitched here. The family (at Edith’s Sewing) is amazing.

They’ve been in the business for more than 30 years. It’s about everyone involved in the process bringing their passion and love and stories to the product. That’s very important to me.

And you mentioned comfort and style.

One hundred percent. And functionality. All of the aprons have a light stain guard depending on the color. You can take water for ketchup, mustard — just take water and wipe it off. I wanted to think about the environment, too.

Our aprons are 6 to 7 ounces, a typical apron is 12 ounces.

And what is so cool about these aprons is the stretch. They contour and work with and complement your body. We want people to feel

empowered, to feel inspired to jump into the kitchen.

Your aprons are tied to philanthropy?

Oh my gosh, that is so important to me. This is first and foremost something I believe in and is at the core of who I am and what we are at AOS. We’re a company with a cause. We believe that as we grow, everything around us should grow, too.

We’re starting a campaign, “An Apron for a Cause.” We have a pink apron, Jacques PINK PINK, with proceeds going to the Editha House in Phoenix where they house cancer patients who can’t afford to stay in hospitals.

I have a special needs son, and I am so excited about partnering with a gentleman, a young man who is 18 years old and autistic and aspiring to become a chef.

He is designing an apron for us. His name is Jeremiah Josey, and proceeds from his apron will benefit special needs children and Jeremiah’s career. I want to be the voice for the unspoken.

Don Chareunsy is a freelance writer based in Las Vegas.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

51

P U L S E INFLUENCER

LESSONS IN

Name: Conni Jespersen, Art in the Find Age: 37 Hometown: San Diego, for the past 13 years. Paradise and Chico, Calif., through high school/college Current neighborhood: Windansea/La Jolla What do you do for a living?

Wardrobe stylist/consultant/ organizer and style blogger Website/social media handles: artinthefind.com Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter: @artinthefind

STYLING

FORMER TEACHER CONNI JESPERSEN LEFT THE CLASSROOM BEHIND TO TUTOR CLIENTS IN FINDING THE PERFECT OUTFIT FOR EVERY OCCASION

B

logger Conni Jespersen left her job as a teacher to pursue her passion for fashion and overall style, which led her to create Art in the Find, a website and personal styling business. Despite the lack of a traditional school room, she continues to educate clients and followers on finding the best clothing pieces for each person’s unique style.

PACIFIC recently turned to Jespersen for her top holiday picks including gifts for everyone on the naughty and nice lists and the appropriate attire for wherever you’ll catch the ball drop on New Year’s Eve. In her own words Art in the Find blog is a place where you can find affordable style inspiration for the everyday, busy gal. It is a style resource for women on the go, who are looking to up their outfit game. I provide everyday style tips, ways to mix and match outfits, fashion advice, trend updates and the occasional city guide or decor tip.

Why did you decide to start Art in the Find?

I have a degree in education and minor in child development. Seven years into my teaching career, I started wondering if I wanted to pursue other passions. I’ve always had an interest in history, fashion and overall style and I wanted to explore those more. So, in my last year of teaching, I started my blog, Art in the Find. I wrote my heart out about style, trends and took night classes at a local community college to get my fashion merchandising credential. I wanted to share my interests with anyone who’d read it. Art in the Find is both about my styling business and my style blog.

The name comes from the belief

52

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

A.

B.

that there is an art to finding the right pieces for each person. It’s part of what I love to do; I love the hunt, the acquisition, finding just the right piece for a client or blog follower.

Let’s talk presents. What gift would you buy for:

C.

Your significant other?

Hopefully, he’s not reading this, but I’m all about the old-school pieces right now, so I’m on the hunt for a super cool record player.

Your mom?

A lovely custom illustrated image of our family from Sophie & Lilli.

Your boss?

That’s me! (Laughs) But for someone else’s boss, I’d opt for a really cool wine set, maybe some great glasses along with a favorite wine.

Your best friend?

A great everyday bag, monogrammed like the Transport tote from Madewell or the Foldover clutch or Alistar Petit from Clare V. >>>

D.

THIS PAGE (from top): Conni Jespersen in Barrio Logan.

Photo by XOXO Wedding Studio; A. Orbit special turntable, uturnaudio. com; B. Custom art print, sophieandlili.bigcartel.com; C. Alistar Petit bag, clarev. com; D. Transport tote, madewell.com.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Jespersen in Barrio Logan. Photo by XOXO Wedding Studio.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

53

P U L S E INFLUENCER

A N D R E A G A L L AG H E R P H O T O G R A P H Y

A.

B.

C. KC A L F R E D

D.

What are some of your favorite trends right now?

I absolutely love fall and the holidays because all of the fabulous textures and rich colors come alive. Give me all the velvets, burgundy, all the sparkle, all the feathers.

A. Cornela dress, tedbaker.com; B. Vocabulary boutique; C. Mimi & Red; D. Starlite; E. Pigment; F. Puesto.

TOP RIGHT: Jespersen in Barrio Logan. Photo by XOXO Wedding Studio.

F.

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Bar/club Think sexy, chic for women like the Zulema dress from Tularosa.

And for men, think a suave men’s velvet jacket (like the Reman Trim Fit Velvet Dinner Jacket by BOSS) and bow tie (Silk Pre-Tied Bow Tie by BOSS) with a great pair of pants.

Ball Time to get dolled up. Think floor-length, gown-style dresses (like the Beaded Bodice Ballgown from Eliza J) and men in a great suit (like a wool suit from Zara).

E.

54

Describe both men’s and women’s New Year’s Eve outfits that you would recommend for the following events in San Diego: House party For women, keep it chic, cute and festive with a dress like the Cornela from Ted Baker. And, casually pulled together for men.

A great button-down like the Mod Fit Gingham Sport Shirt from Ted Baker (maybe with a slim tie or bow tie) with a V-neck sweater like the Nordstrom Cotton & Cashmere V-Neck Sweater and dark denim or slacks.

What are some of your favorite San Diego stores or boutiques?

I love Vocabulary Boutique, Pigment, Graffiti Beach and Mimi & Red for casual wear.

Favorite San Diego restaurant?

I really enjoy Madison on Park for a lovely dinner. If we’re hanging in La Jolla, Whisknladle Bistro & Bar is great or Puesto for tacos.

We love sushi and tried Himitsu in La Jolla ( just opened, 30 seats), and it was amazing.

Favorite San Diego happy hour?

Anywhere! No, but really, I love Cafe Chloe for a traditional French cocktail or glass of bubbly. I also love You & Yours Distillery. They make the most beautiful cocktails and their tasting room is fantastic to sit and chat with a friend. Starlite is a traditional fav.

What do you think is San Diego’s coolest neighborhood and why?

I think that so many of San Diego’s neighborhoods have amazing things to offer. Encinitas is really bringing their A game, Little Italy has always been so vibrant, Mission Hills is so, so lovely. But I always find myself gravitating towards North Park.

There are breweries and great restaurants (that make my husband super happy) and shops and cafes (that make me happy), so there’s the best of all the worlds in one ’hood.

Own at the beach!

Immaculate finishes adorn this gem located one block from Crystal Pier, in the heart of Pacific Beach. Property includes a sideby-side 2-car attached garage! Every aspect of this must-see home exudes perfection: upgraded tile; engineered wood and cherry wood floors; two fireplaces with custom slate finishes; LED lighting and upgraded fans; brand-new 3-ton HVAC unit; tank-less water heater; 5-stage full-house HALO water filtration system; custom designer paint; pre-wired for HDMI and sound.

Overhead garage-storage system. Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostat; stainless steel GE Profile appliances; full-size side-by-side washer and dryer; wine Fridge; teak wood bar. 3 bed | 3 bath | 2-car garage | 1,655 sq.-ft. | $1,399,900

Scofield Realty, Inc. Kirby Scofield, principal CalBRE#01999244

949 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach T: 1.833.Kirby.4.U (547-2948) E: info@kirby4u.com

List your home for 1% with Kirby & Get up to 20% Buyer Rebate of Commission if you purchase. *certain restriction & minimums apply.

kirby4u.com

ll

B

ina y N Ha

BUY&

BUY

EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS WITH UNIQUE, LOCAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCES IN SAN DIEGO’S STYLISH NEIGHBORHOODS Ah, the holidays … a time for peaceful gatherings, baking cookies and guilt-free Netflix marathons.

But nothing kills this warm holiday glow quicker than a crowded, hectic shopping mall.

It’s a good thing, then, that you can do much of your holiday shopping in a variety of San Diego neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking one-of-a-kind jewelry for your BFF, or something classy for your boss, you’ll find unique options at any of these local shopping districts.

Maps & icons by Cristina Byvik 56

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Little Italy Little Italy is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, plus it has a top-notch Saturday farmers market. But along with its food scene, this neighborhood also is known for art galleries, vintage furniture, handmade jewelry and sophisticated fashion. Plus, Little Italy has a Christmas tree and poinsettia display at Piazza Basilone, so you still get some holiday spirit as you shop.

selection of evil eye art and jewelry.

There’s European lingerie (in a good variety of sizes) at Kapreeza, and whimsical-yet-sophisticated fruitthemed blouses at Little Apple.

Get beer-themed hoodies, hats and t-shirts at Bottlecraft, or make a really amazing gift basket using imported pastas and treats from the deli at Mona Lisa Italian Foods.

Rest your feet: If you’re looking

Kettner Boulevard from West Ash to West Laurel streets.

for a quick bite, definitely get a paper cone filled with cheese flakes (raspa dura) and a sweet vermouth cocktail at Monello, a beautiful salad at Cafe Gratitude, or a coffee and homemade croissant at Influx.

There’s also ramen at Underbelly and fried chicken sandwiches at The Crack Shack. Oh, plus, every other trendy restaurant in San Diego.

Parking: It’s hard to find, especially

Last-minute option: Grab a

Where: Along India Street and

at lunch or dinner hours. You can fight for a metered spot on the street, but your best bet is biking, trolley or ride sharing.

restaurant gift card while you’re already out to dinner.

What you’ll find here: You can

spend hours at Love & Aesthetics, a shop filled with modern Goth supplies like candles in dark wood boxes and necklaces in the shape of actual human hearts. Right next door, is the clean simplicity of Vitreum, where you’ll find unique Japanese mugs, bowls and vases. More spiritual types will love Verde, which has a large

Bottlecraft

MONICA HOOVER

The Crack Shack

Cafe Gratitude

Vitreum

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

57

Pigment

North Park/ South Park Thanks to its mix of creative-minded residents, art galleries, authentic taco shops and high-profile music venues, this shopping corridor is where you go when you want to find what’s on trend. Whether it’s a special blend of cocktail bitters or a politically savvy pin, consider North Park and South Park as shopping at the anti-mall.

Where: Along 30th Street from University Avenue to Hawthorn Street.

Parking: You can spend time

looking for a street spot in North Park, but if you have a few extra dollars, there’s the parking garage on 29th Street. Parking’s a bit easier to find in South Park, just be nice to the residents as you walk by their houses.

Mimi & Red

58

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

What you’ll find here: Start

at Pigment, where you can (still)

make your own succulents display, buy raw honey, get some kids clothes and stock up on rainbow and cactusthemed party supplies. Artelexia is perfect for offbeat gifts like Mexicanthemed air fresheners. If it’s clothes you want, Hunt & Gather and The Girl Can’t Help It have a mix of vintage and new items for men and women, Junc is all about shoes and bags, and Mimi & Red has all your jumpsuit and romper needs, plus affordable stocking stuffers. Book lovers will be in heaven at Verbatim Books and The Book Catapult. Don’t forget about Gold Leaf, a home decor shop that has everything from trendy cactus throw pillows to vintage canister sets.

Rest your feet: Get savory

waffles and lemonade at Wow Wow Waffle, or duck fat truffle fries at The Smoking Goat. You can get good food and beer, plus keep the kids entertained at Station Tavern and Waypoint Public. Just want a drink? Bar Pink has strong cocktails (don’t forget your cash here), mood lighting and good music while The Rose Wine Bar is perfect for postshopping meet-ups.

Last-minute option: Concert tickets for an upcoming show at The Observatory.

P E G G Y P E AT T I E

The Smoking Goat

The Book Catapult

DAV I D B R O O K S

K AT I E D I L LO N

Station Tavern

The Observatory

BILL WECHTER

Junc

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

59

La Jolla La Jolla is a unique mix of laid-back beach culture and high-end shopping.

Head here if you want to buy a statement item, like traditional art pieces or a pair of Adidas designed

by Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto. This shopping district is also #blessed with gorgeous views and that unfortunate internationally famous seal poop aroma.

Where: Girard Avenue, Prospect Street, Ivanhoe Avenue and surrounding streets.

Parking: Get there early and you’ll find two-hour spots, though you’ll

most likely get a ticket if you go one minute over those two hours. There also are plenty of pay lots and public valet stations.

What you’ll find here: Laura

Gambucci Boutique is the closest you’ll get to a New York boutique with racks filled with items for women who aren’t afraid to be bold or creative. Y-3 has elegant, Japaneseinspired sportswear. Warwick’s, Hi Sweetheart and Sweet Paper have fancy gifts for mom and glitter pens and stickers for any teens on your shopping list. Outdoorsy types will appreciate nature photos and art from Mangelsen Images of Nature Gallery. And if you do happen to want dependable stores without the mall hassle, you’ll find Lululemon, Sur la

Puesto

60

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Table, Banana Republic, Kate Spade and others along Girard Avenue.

Rest your feet: If it’s views

you want, your best bets are the casual Ocean Terrace at George’s at the Cove and sophisticated seafood spot The Hake. But locals also love Whisknladle and Puesto, and not just because they have fun, creative cocktails. There are juice bars all around, but if you’re looking for vegan food head to Trilogy’s Sanctuary Cafe. And if you happen to have non-shoppers in tow, you can send them to The Spot where there’s comfort food and sports on TV.

Last-minute option: A pie or a

selection of cookies from Sugar and Scribe bakery.

Encinitas There’s more to downtown Encinitas than yoga studios and juice bars.

This is a shopping destination where you can pick up everything from kitschy seashell art to high-fashion clothing. It’s blocks away from the beach, so the streets are usually filled with people walking, running, or just standing in line for a California burrito.

bamboo shirts at Ecotopiia, and essential oils and crystals at Earths Elements. Art N Soul on 101 and Bliss 101 both carry art and handmade pieces by local artists. Bliss 101 also has tasteful, ocean-themed home decor.

There’s an entire store dedicated to Birkenstocks over at the Lumberyard. And if you need gifts for the kids in your life, there are gorgeous wooden toys, tea sets and clothes at Magical Child.

Where: South Coast Highway 101

Rest your feet: If you want an

from D to F streets.

Parking: Look for spots along

South Coast Highway and surrounding neighborhood streets, but make sure to look out for cyclists and surfers as you’re backing out.

What you’ll find: You can spend all day at Coast Highway Traders, where there’s Mexican folk art, seashells and other fun gifts. Get your eco-conscious friends soft

Blue Ribbon Artisan Pizzeria

Last minute option: An

iconic Hansen’s Surfboards hoodie.

ROBERT NUNEZ

Solace

Encinitas vegan experience, grab a Buddha bowl at Eve, a fresh juice at Lotus Cafe, or a mint mojito iced coffee at Philz. Solace & the Moonlight Lounge and Blue Ribbon Artisan Pizzeria are time-tested favorites. Grab cocktails and craft beers at Union Kitchen & Tap. Of course, there’s always the classic California burrito from Juanitas Taco Shop.

Lotus Cafe

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

61

Campfire

Carlsbad Village and downtown Oceanside These North County spots often get mislabeled as sleepy beach towns. But thanks to a burgeoning art scene, new restaurants and a variety of experimental theater and music events, the secret about these neighborhoods is spreading beyond its locals. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that you can hit the beach after crossing some names off your shopping list.

Where: Carlsbad Village Drive

and Grand Avenue from State to Roosevelt streets in Carlsbad; Mission Avenue, Pier View Way and surrounding streets in Oceanside.

Parking: There’s plenty of street parking throughout Carlsbad and Oceanside. There are also train

62

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

stations near both districts.

What you’ll find here: Many

boutiques in Carlsbad carry bohemianchic and beachwear. But there are some stores that cater to very specific tastes, like Mermaids Of Carlsbad, a gift shop that stocks dishes, art and jewelry that lets you live out your mermaid dreams. Dancin Soul Boutique, has hard-to-find dance brands, plus dance-themed sweatshirts and tees. You’ll also find bohemian kimonos at Blues & Shoes, trendy accessories and colorful dreamcatchers at Flourish; and bracelets and bags that appeal to women of all ages at Wysh Boutique. In Oceanside, Asylum Board Shops have skate and surf essentials for even the pickiest bros.

And you’ll find carved wooden boxes, whimsical wind chimes and other gifts at the weekly Sunset Market.

Rest your feet: Campfire in

Carlsbad is an inviting space where everything has a wood-fire taste to it, including the cocktails. Share a cheese board and pour your own craft beer at Barrel Republic in Oceanside and Carlsbad. Pier View Coffee Company in Oceanside is perfect for a quick caffeine fix, or spend some time relaxing in a garden of succulents at Succulent Cafe in Carlsbad.

Last minute option: A Pizza

Port gift card is good for everything from gluten-free pizzas to wetsuits for your beer growler.

DON BOOMER

Wysh Boutique

CHARLIE NEUMAN

Sunset Market

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

63

Aubrey Rose Tea Room

La Mesa Village For years, this quaint East County spot was known for antiques and thrift stores. But with Park Estate Company going out of business, and City Tacos moving in, it’s evolving into a foodie destination. So even if you’re just going for the restaurants, take some time to explore La Mesa Village’s one-of-a-kind shops, they’re perfect for afternoon browsing.

Where: La Mesa Boulevard from Spring Street to Fourth Street.

Parking: Metered spots along La

Mesa Boulevard and surrounding streets. There’s also a bus and trolley stop on Spring Street.

What you’ll find here: Pick

up rare vinyl, horror movies and cheap CDs at Re-Animated Records. Amethyst Moon has sooo much incense, plus Hamsa and lotus wall art, healing teas and crystals. Find floral tops, dresses and colorful jewelry at Sara’s Selections Boutique. Along with furniture, there’s pottery and unique clocks

64

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

at Mostly Mission. Tea aficionados will love the Aubrey Rose Tea Room, while bookworms can spend hours at Maxwell’s House of Books.

There are still some vintage and secondhand spots, including Fashion Exchange Consignment, Act II and a giant Goodwill.

Rest your feet: The star of this

entire shopping district is Bo Beau Kitchen + Garden, thanks to its inviting patio and French-inspired menu. Por Favor has sidewalk seating so you can spend an afternoon sipping giant margaritas and peoplewatching. Coffee snobs will be happy over at Public Square Coffee, where you can also pick up a housemade pastry or breakfast sandwich. Even though you’re inland, you can get a bit of a beach vibe at Swami’s Cafe.

And moving in soon will be City Tacos and Fourpenny House, a brewpub that specializes in cider.

Last-minute option: A nice bottle from the San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room and Gallery.

Downtown Escondido Head to downtown Escondido for an old-fashioned shopping experience (so old-fashioned that many stores are closed on Sundays). But next to the vacuum and sewing machine store, you can also find unique gifts, including hipster Christmas ornaments and gently-worn Dr. Martens shoes. There’s a surprising number of beauty salons and barber shops, plus sidewalk benches where neighbors greet each other and even stop to chat. It’s almost like stepping into a 1950s TV show.

Where: Grand Avenue from Center City Parkway to Juniper Street.

Parking: Free, three-hour parking

along Grand Avenue and surrounding streets.

What you’ll find here: VinKlectic

has faux-fur vests and stylish cowboy hats for country divas, plus Christmas ornaments in the shape of RVs. Stock up on candles, soaps and figurines at Laurel Glen Gifts. MIYO is a cute resale shop where you’ll find handbags, shoes and dresses, plus flannel shirts for guys. If you’re into kooky stocking stuffers and holiday cards, go to Grab Bag Antiques.

Pick up shabby chic home accents or refurbished furniture at Simply Grand.

And if you want to support local artists, you’ll find contemporary pieces at Art 120 Grand.

A Delight of France

Rest your feet: Start with breakfast

at A Delight of France, a cozy spot known for croissants, crepes and tarts.

Or get local brews and pub fare at Plan 9 Alehouse. Save your appetite for gourmet burgers and fries at Burger Bench. Vinz is a wine bar that also serves beer, cocktails and cheese plates. Or just get locally roasted coffee from Kettle Coffee & Tea.

Last-minute option: It’s not

technically in downtown Escondido, but Canterbury Gardens & Gifts on South Escondido Boulevard is known for its massive collection of Christmas ornaments and decorations.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

65

TASTE

D I N I N G O U T / H AVA N A N I G H T S

DECEMBER

BY PAM KRAGEN

PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

HAVANA

NIGHTS AUTHENTIC CUBAN VIBES UNLEASHED AT NEW GASLAMP RESTAURANT/BAR

The hospitality group behind Havana 1920, the new Cuban restaurant/bar in the Gaslamp Quarter, is named GBOD, an acronym for Go Big or Die. The 3-year-old San Diego restaurant company’s fearless business philosophy has happily paid off with a string of successful ethnic eateries. But they were merely the appetizer for Havana 1920, GBOD’s biggest shoot-for-the-moon enterprise yet. >>>

66

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Celebrate the Season in Legendary Style

HOLIDAY TEA

DECEMBER 9 & 16

Spend an afternoon sipping loose leaf teas and savory Chef’s selection of sweet and savory treats

AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 14-24

The cast of Lamb’s Players “An American Christmas” will sweep you into a festive evening filled with music and dance, story, complete with a four- course dinner

HOLIDAY REMIX

DECEMBER 15

A radiant celebration full of merry making complete with gourmet reception stations, specialty libations and live entertainment. As our gift to you, attendees will receive a $10 UBER coupon code for a “safe ride home”

CHRISTMAS DINNER & NEW YEAR’S EVE

GRANT GRILL

Celebrate in the legendary Grant Grill with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day fine dining menus. Ring in 2018 with seasonal cuisine, live music and one-of-a-kind beverage offerings.

HOLIDAY COCKTAIL TROLLEY

THURSDAY - SATURDAY

Enjoy a unique holiday cocktail experience ensconced in the regal Grand Lobby of THE US GRANT. The bar trolley offers tableside creations of Holiday themed cocktails. Live music in addition to the Holiday Carolers add to the ambiance on Friday and Saturday evenings.

VISIT THEUSGRANT.COM/CALENDAR TO LEARN MORE OR MAKE RESERVATIONS BY CALLING 619.232.3121

326 BROADWAY, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 619.232.3121 THEUSGRANT.COM

TA ST E DINING OUT

Havana 1920 is the passion project of Chief Operating Officer Joe Santos. He’s the grandson of Cuban immigrants, and the restaurant’s pastelcolored walls, historical décor, menu and classic cocktails are a love letter to his family and the traditional dishes he grew up eating.

“Havana 1920 has been in my head for the longest time, well before I started working in restaurants,” said Santos, who was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where his grandparents settled after leaving Cuba in the mid-1950s.

Manager Andrew Walsh said no expense has been spared in re-creating the look, flavor and ambience of Havana in 1920.

That’s the year U.S. Prohibition laws sent thousands of thirsty Americans winging their way south for rum drinks and the tropical lifestyle later popularized by island transplant Ernest Hemingway.

The 80-seat venue resembles a ’20s-era Havana home, with a quick-service market on the ground floor (look for the hand-painted city mural with the Santos family house) and homespun tables with mismatched chairs in the upstairs dining room, which customers reach by climbing a Cubana airlines stairwell lined with antique plane tickets and travel posters.

There are Cuban license plates (pre- and post-Castro), antique Cuban cigar boxes and rum bottles, historic posters and family heirlooms. On weekend nights, there’s live Cuban music.

By the bar, there’s a video floor showing Cuban films and a table with an inlaid wood map of the isles. Behind the bar, mixologist Ryan Andrew has a machine that crushes island-grown sugar cane to mix with some of the venue’s more than 150 varieties of fine and rare Caribbean rum.

68

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Chef Anthony Porras’ menu is what Santos calls “the anti-fusion food” of Cuba. Except for some Spanish influences, Cuban cuisine has changed very little over the past century.

There are classic Cubano sandwiches, yucca fries and plantain snacks, croquetas, citrusmarinated chicken and cafecitos (espresso brewed with brown sugar granules).

“The greatest compliment we can get is when people come in and say our food tastes just like their grandmother used to make,” Santos said.

GBOD is a partnership of brothers Ray and Patrick Davoudi, Santos and Aleko Achtipes.

Their first Gaslamp project was Meze Greek Fusion in 2014. Their underground speakeasy, Prohibition, is directly beneath Havana 1920, and right next door is El Chingon, which has a Mexican Revolution theme. The group also owns the Greek-inspired Saganaki by Meze at Liberty Station.

Santos said he’s grateful his partners let him go all in on Havana 1920, which is one of San Diego’s only classic Cuban restaurants. It’s a risk to serve such simple food in the high-rent Gaslamp district, but Santos is optimistic.

“This was such a passion project for us that even if we break even, we’ll be happy,” he said.

“We took a chance because we believed in it.”

HAVANA 1920 548 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.501.1919, havana1920.com

OPPOSITE PAGE (clockwise, from top left): A Cuban sandwich from Havana 1920; traditional art decorates the walls; view of Havana 1920 from Fifth Ave.; empanadas; a seating area inside the new restaurant; vintage Cuban posters; ropa vieja; patrons play games at an outdoor table; a display case.

THE DISH Empanadas: Traditional, Spanish-influenced fried pastries, served with two dipping sauces: mojo criollo (garlic, olive oil and citrus juice) and Havana royale (ketchup and mayonnaise).

To get the right crunch and sweetness, Havana 1920 flies its pastry dough in from a Cuban bakery in L.A. Sandwich Cubano: The classic hot sandwich made with slow-roasted pork, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard and pickles on Cuban bread that’s flown in weekly from Miami.

Ropa Vieja: Cuba’s national dish of stewed beef, tomato sauce, peppers, onions and spices. The name is Spanish for “old clothes” because the slowcooked dish resembles shredded fabric.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

69

TA ST E

BY PETER ROWE

BEER

J A M I E S C O T T LY T L E P H O T O G R A P H Y

Tomme Arthur

TAKE IT FROM THE TAP A MONTHLY TASTE OF BEER FROM HERE or craft beer fans, few traditions are more cherished than the annual appearance of Christmas beers.

Tomme Arthur, partowner/brewer at Port Brewing and The Lost Abbey in San Marcos, has been turning out these seasonal brews for 20 years. PACIFIC asked him how he puts a little ho-ho-ho in every bottle.

PACIFIC: What’s the first Christmas beer you tasted? What was your reaction?

Tomme Arthur: Going way back in time, I would think that Anchor Christmas, Sierra Nevada Celebration and Samuel Smith’s

70

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Winter Warmer were probably my first experiences with Christmas beers. The Anchor beer I remember being very spicy, the Celebration joyfully hoppy and the Samuel Smith’s being malty and brown.

All of them were deliciously unique.

Can you define “Christmas beer”? Do all the beers in this category share certain characteristics?

My idea of a great Christmas beer is one that puts you in the spirit of Christmas.

There are so many ways to do this.

Historically, many Christmas beers have been stronger in ABV (alcohol by volume) and something you might want to sip in front of a fire while it’s snowing outside. As that rarely >>>

TA ST E BEER

happens here in San Diego, we have a slightly different perspective on how our Christmas beers should taste.

What was the first Christmas beer you brewed?

Did drinkers greet it as a holiday present, or as a liquid lump of coal?

In 1997, I brewed the very first batch of Santa’s Little Helper Imperial Stout.

It was dark as night, smoother than a lump of coal and was incredibly well received.

Can you describe the Christmas beers you brew now for Port Brewing?

Since opening our doors in 2006 here in San Marcos, we have produced two Christmas beers each year. Port Brewing has released Santa’s Little Helper Imperial Stout. This recipe hasn’t changed since it was first introduced.

We also are producing Santa’s Little Helper in four-packs for the first time, so look for those out in the world.

That’s one. The other Christmas beer you make in San Marcos?

In years past, The Lost Abbey seasonal was Gift of the Magi (an ale in the biere de garde style). New this year to The Lost Abbey is Gnoel de Abbey, which is replacing Gift of the Magi. This is a blended beer featuring a freshly brewed base beer, which we married to some barrel-aged goodness.

The resulting beer is deep garnet in color with some incredible hazelnut qualities.

At 8.5% ABV, we think it’s shockingly light and refreshing.

Other than your own, which Christmas beers do you always turn to at this time of year?

My dad makes a mean Egg Nog with Wild Turkey 101. Does that count? If not, I still crush as many Sierra Nevada Celebrations as humanly possible.

72

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS

(OR HANUKKAH, KWANZAA, NEW YEAR’S DAY… ) GOOD TIDINGS TO ALL, AND TO ALL A FULL BEER f Americans are famous for their ingenuity, why hasn’t anyone invented the refrigerated Christmas stocking, capable of holding a six-pack?

While that gift remains unavailable, a sleigh-load of hoppy holiday presents awaits the craft beer lover on your list.

APPS Jonny Quirk’s Beer Adventures app launched late this year with plenty of European destinations — Berlin, Copenhagen, Paris, Rome, London and Quirk’s U.K. hometown, Manchester — and a few U.S. destinations, led by San Diego.

Quirk said. “I guarantee it.”’

Available on both iOS and Android. It’s free to download, but has in-app purchases available (only one city can be downloaded for free; it’ll cost you after that).

HOMEBREWING Ready to brew your own?

Neiman Marcus’ splurge-tastic Christmas Book — check out Dolce & Gabbana’s hand-painted refrigerator, $50,000 — offers the BrewArt BeerDroid Beer Brewing Station ($835). Download the app and run this push-button system from your smartphone. neimanmarcus.com Pico Brew also offers a full line of home brewing kits, starting with the countertop Pico Model C ($549) and ending with Pico Zymatic ($1,999), a garage-filling brewhouse for allgrain brewing. picobrew.com

PAR-TAY!

“That’s one of our most popular international cities,” Quirk said.

The app designs a beer tour itinerary on the fly. Just enter a location — Toronado in North Park, say. After 45 minutes, your phone will ask if you want to move on to your next destination or stay for another round.

“This app will take you to amazing places for food and beer,”

Curious about brewing, but reluctant to buy supplies and equipment? Start your homebrewing career with a party at Citizen Brewers in Grantville. At this fully-stocked brewhouse, you and up to five friends can brew and bottle a batch (72 22-ounce bottles, or one 50 liter keg) for $259 to $299.

Bonus: Brewing’s messy, so let the Citizens handle the cleanup.

Citizen Brewers 5837 Mission Gorge Rd., Ste. A, Grantville 760.587.7989, citizenbrewers.com

KEEPING IT FRESH The wheel. The lightbulb. The computer. Now, here’s another addition to the list of civilization-shaping inventions: Growler Chill.

This device solves an age-old problem: once you’ve opened a glass jug of beer — aka a growler — how can you keep this precious liquid fresh and bubbly?

Holding up to three 64-ounce growlers, the Chill is a refrigerated countertap that controls the CO2 pressure and expels oxygen from the system.

Preorders ($439) for January production are now being taken at growlerchill.com. >>>

Grower Chill.

WORLD’S FINEST? Westvleteren XII is often ranked as the world’s greatest beer, but the monks of Belgium’s Scourmont Abbey only produce limited amounts.

In the past, sampling this prized quadruple ale required airfare to Belgium. Now, a few companies sell the beer online — for a hefty price.

Beer of Belgium, for instance, sells six 33-cl bottles (each holds a splash more than 11 ounces) for $69. Add $53 for shipping and you’re looking at $121.50 for a six-pack. If your wallet can handle that hit, go to beerofbelgium.com.

CULTURE There’s more to life than drinking beer.

There’s also drinking in beer culture.

Since the Smithsonian Institution hired Theresa McCulla as its beer historian in January, the nation’s attic has been dusting off its extensive collection of beer-related art and artifacts. Take your beer-loving loved one to Washington, D.C., where a trove of hoppy treasures are now on display, everything from African beer straws to 19th century beer ads to late 20th century paintings (Robert Cottingham’s “Cold Beer” is a favorite).

READ, BAKE, DRINK

MIKE ANNESE PHOTOGRAPHY

In “Food on Tap” (Countryman Press, $24.95), Lori Rice spotlights simple recipes that pair deliciously with beer. Let’s start dinner with pale ale marinara meatballs accompanied by Deschutes’ Mirror Pond Pale Ale, and finish the meal with milk stout caramel tart served with Belching Beaver’s Beavers Milk Stout.

BrewArt BeerDroid Beer Brewing Station.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

73

TA ST E BEER

LET’S GO TO THE HOPS DECEMBER BEER EVENTS IN SAN DIEGO

FUTURE BEER:

PREDICTIONS FOR 2018 LOOK DEEP INTO THE PINT GLASS

Dec. 10 The jolly old elf will hitch up his reindeer and fly to Benchmark Brewing to meet young fans. From noon to 2 p.m., kids can pose for photos with Santa Claus for a $5 fee. Parents are welcome to order a pint, while Nana’s Heavenly Hot Dogs will attend to hungry visitors of all ages.

Benchmark Brewing, 6190 Fairmount Ave., Grantville, 619.795.2911, benchmarkbrewing.com

Dec. 17 Ballast Point is hosting a day-long party in honor of its imperial porter, Victory at Sea. At each of the brewery’s seven locations — Miramar, Scripps Ranch, Little Italy, Linda Vista, Temecula, Long Beach and Daleville, Va. — at least 15 varieties of Victory will be tapped. For $30, guests can quaff their choice of five 4-ounce tasters, plus snaffle a goblet, sticker and eye patch. ballastpoint.com

74

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

eering into their crystal mugs, experts see a bright 2018 for craft beer.

For craft beer in general, that is. For individual craft brewers, the outlook is much murkier.

“Overall spending on craft beer will continue to rise,” said Ed Ashley, who studies the beer industry at Cal State San Marcos’ College of Business Administration. “However, fewer will share in the revenues.”

Prognosticating is an art, not a science. Still, it’s striking how many experts echo Ashley in foreseeing more consolidation ahead among local breweries.

“I think we are going to see some merging of the smaller ones,” said Susie Baggs, owner of Brown Bag Beverages, a San Diego-based distributor of craft beer. “I also think we’ll see some collaborations.”

Also likely, in Baggs’ view: two or more breweries sharing brewing space, tasting rooms and distribution channels, Susie Baggs yet still operating as separate businesses. And expect to see more medium-sized local breweries acquire smaller players, such as this year when Coronado Brewing purchased Monkey Paw. The consolidation craze will also mean that San Diego in 2018 will see fewer new breweries open than in “the go-go days of 2016,” said Russ Gibbon, the business development director for the city of San Diego.

Within the city limits, 16 new breweries opened in ’16.

What’s likely in ’18? “Fewer than five,” Gibbon said.

However, there will be a significant increase in the number of tap rooms, he added, as the region’s 150-plus breweries struggle to stand out from the pack.

That will be increasingly difficult next year, Ashley said.

“Some new ones will still open,” he said. “More smaller, ill-capitalized ones will fade away.

“That said, there will be more opportunity for consolidation among the smaller brewers. The better business-minded ones should acquire other smaller ones to expand their brand portfolios and to grow.”

Ashley’s last prediction may rattle purists who objected when MillerCoors bought Saint Archer and Constellation Brands purchased Ballast Point: “Big Beer will likely keep buying other breweries.”

NOW OPEN 3 0 0 0 U p a s S tNr O e eWt , OS P aE n ND i e g o , 9 2 1 0 4 c oi emg o , 9 2 1 0 4 3 0 0 0 U p aws wSw t r. el eetts, tSaacno .D www.letstaco.com

[ PROMOTION [ BENNY AND THE TOTS — One pound of crispy tots covered with Canadian bacon and two poached eggs topped with hollandaise.

BRIAN’S 24 Brian’s 24 is Downtown’s only 24-hour, full-service restaurant. Everyone can find something to fall in love with on Brian’s dinerstyle menu, which is stacked with favorites including chicken and waffles, buttermilk hotcakes, pizzas, burgers and chicken wings.

This mega-popular downtown spot boasts a grand, handcrafted mahogany bar, a beautiful crystal chandelier and a decorative tin ceiling, all of which contribute to the warm feeling you get when walking through the door into the restaurant that never sleeps. Whether you’re hungry for a friendly place for happy hour, a cocktail at midnight or an omelet at 3 a.m., Brian’s 24 will surely satisfy.

BRIAN’S 24 RESTAURANT, BAR & GRILL 828 6th Ave., Gaslamp 619.702.8410 | brians24.com OPEN 24/7/ 365

TA ST E

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER PHOTOS BY NELVIN C. CEPEDA

BARTENDER

Behind the

(JOY)STICK COIN-OP GASLAMP’S MASTER MIXOLOGIST IS AT THE TOP OF HIS GAME

W

hile turning 21 can be a boozy rite of passage for many, for East County native D.J. Mull, his first legal drink led him to his destiny.

“On my 21st birthday, I was living in San Francisco,” says Mull, a former professional BMX cyclist.

“My friends took me to a bar called the El Dorado, which had just opened up. I had a Moscow Mule, and I asked the bartender — who was actually the owner — what was in the drink. He said, ‘If you want to know, come back tomorrow.’ So I went back the next day, and the next day, and the next day, and kept on learning, and learning, and asking a ton of questions. I became infatuated with the cocktail culture and acquired every book about it I could get my hands on.”

Nine years later, and Mull has worked at a variety of bars both in the Bay Area and at home in San Diego. But it was up north where he met the minds behind Coin-Op Game Room, who had recently opened a NorCal incarnation of their North Park hot spot. Mull picked up a weekly shift at the bustling barcade, and it ultimately evolved into a full-time gig. Surrounded by fellow San Diegans, he fit right in with his coworkers, but little did Mull know, he’d soon return to his roots.

“While on vacation in San Diego, I met a girl and fell in love,” says Mull. “I told the owners of Coin-Op that I needed to transfer down to San Diego, and that I’m going to spend the rest of my life with this girl. That’s when they told me they

78

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

were opening up a Coin-Op in the Gaslamp and asked me to be part of the team. I made the move down a few weeks after that.”

Gaslamp Coin-Op Game Room opened in September, and as chief cocktail conjurer at the sprawling new game haven, Mull is responsible for creating the cocktail menu. And he couldn’t be happier.

“This is where my heart is,” he says. “This is what I love.”

We caught up with the selfproclaimed “encyclopedia of cocktail and spirit knowledge” for a quick chat about life, liquor and The Guy who “lives” at the bar.

PACIFIC: How would you describe your bartending style?

D.J. MULL: I like to create an experience for any guest I come into contact with. It’s about making sure that every single person who gets a drink in front of them is getting — if not the best — close to the best cocktail they’ve ever had.

I create that experience through a little bit of education, a lot of fun, and hitting the taste buds just right.

What’s your favorite thing about working at Gaslamp Coin-Op? The family aspect of it, for sure. I’ve worked at a lot of different bars that threw around the term bar family, but Coin-Op is definitely one of them where everybody genuinely cares about each other. It starts with the ownership, and it goes all the way down to the barbacks.

How does Gaslamp Coin-Op compare to the ones in North Park and S.F.?

The one in North Park has a very

close-knit, small-neighborhood vibe to it, because that’s exactly what it is. The one in San Francisco is fantastic, and it’s a huge space; I want to say it’s at least five times the size of the North Park location.

We have a lot bigger groups up there, and it’s a lot more food driven. The new Coin-Op in the Gaslamp is a perfect blend of those two.

What’s up with that back room everyone’s been buzzing about?

So we have a glass-walled dream room in the back, right behind the bar. None of the other CoinOps have this. It’s a little bit of a contemporary art exhibit that’s stacked with a ton of nostalgic things like old CDs, movie posters, guitars and video game consoles.

Everything that you dreamed of having when you were a kid. There are only two keys to this room, and The Guy has one of them. He’s in there anywhere from four to six nights a week, but nobody really

BELOW: Gaslamp Coin-Op’s buzzed about dream room is a nostalgic look back at the room you always dreamed of as a kid, complete with CDs, movie posters, guitars and video games.

RIGHT: Bartender D.J. Mull at the newly opened Gaslamp Coin-Op.

knows his schedule. He just shows up when he shows up and lives in the room as if it was his own. He’ll watch movies, play video games, take a nap, read comic books, and re-enact WWF scenes while watching them on TV. I’ve even seen him get pizza delivered. No matter when you go, he’s always doing something different.

How do guests react to The Guy and vice versa?

We have groups of people who come into Coin-Op and gravitate toward that room. Then, before you know it, we’ll have a crowd of people almost as if you were at the zoo or something. Everybody’s watching him to see what he’ll do next. Sometimes he breaks the fourth wall, but most of the time, he’s just living in his own world. Every once in a while, though, somebody will start knocking on the window and acting crazy. That’s when The Guy will just glare at them, which drives everyone wild. >>>

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

79

TA ST E BARTENDER

CLOCKWISE (from top left): A light-up sign at Gaslamp Coin-Op Game Room greets patrons upon entering; vintage arcade games decorate the venue; the bar at Gaslamp Coin-Op Game Room; classic video games like Simpsons Arcade takes guests back to their childhoods.

Have you spent much time in the room?

I don’t have a key, but The Guy will call me every once in a while when he wants to hang out. So I’ll go and hang out with him. We’ve actually had sleepovers, where we played video games, and when I crashed out, he and some of his other buddies drew on my face. It’s happened before.

What’s unique about Coin-Op’s cocktail program?

We make a house melon liqueur, because although we all like Midori, we don’t really like how sweet it is. So we have an amazing melon liqueur that tastes similar but has a lot less sugar. And instead of using Fireball, we’ve made our own cinnamon whiskey through trial and error. We also have two cocktails on the menu that change every single month.

The only thing that stays the same is the citrus and the base spirits.

We’re always trying to do cool,

80

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

different infusions. I’ve always got something cooking in my head, and that’s what I love.

What are a few signature drinks on your cocktail menu?

One of my favorites is the Peach Panther, which is a peach teainfused gin with a little bit of Peychaud’s Bitters, and lemon juice, and topped with a little bit of champagne. It’s delicious.

Another one I really like is the Hop, Hammertime!, a hop-infused tequila cocktail. The next one that I love on the menu, and this is probably my favorite, is the Sunset Riders.

It’s a gin-and-bourbon lemon cocktail. We also make a rosemary shrub in-house that has juniper and black pepper and allspice in it. It has a lot more depth than a regular rosemary cocktail, and the raspberry and the rosemary pair so well, I could probably have about six of them in a sitting.

What are some of your favorite

dishes on the menu?

I love the buffalo cauliflower. It’s a lot like a popcorn chicken. It’s so delicious and makes me feel good on the inside. Also, I’m a sucker for the green apple and caramel doughnuts. All the doughnuts are super good, but the green apple and caramel doughnuts, with extra caramel sauce — that’s me.

What’s the game selection like?

All of the Coin-Ops have different games, and we switch them out just about every week to keep things fresh. The one thing that does stay, though, and I’m so glad, is Skee-Ball. I could play Skee-Ball all day. And I really enjoy playing The Walking Dead pinball machine. The pinball machines nowadays, I swear, there are so many contraptions to them. We just got the new Star Wars one in, and holy smokes! It’s got TVs in it and everything. It’s crazy! And we have a great variety of the older ones, the classics.

Are there any big differences between the types of gamers in San Diego versus S.F.?

We have a huge pinball community in San Diego. That’s something that I couldn’t believe. We have people who come in just to check their pinball scores and make sure they’re still on top. And if they aren’t, oh man, they’re gonna be in front of that game for the next two or three hours.

What do you do when you’re not working?

I enjoy hanging out with my fiancée, hanging out with my bulldog and riding my motorcycles. I have a few Harley-Davidsons, and I probably work on them just as much as I ride them, but just spending time with them. And riding my BMX bicycles with friends also.

GASLAMP COIN-OP GAME ROOM 789 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.546.6441, coinopgaslamp.com

TA ST E

BY TERI FIGUEROA

BEER

PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

Whit Rigali, Blake Carver and Sam Chereskin toast their Misadventure Vodka California Spirits Company in San Marcos.

Let Them Drink Cake SAN MARCOS COMPANY MISADVENTURE VODKA HITS ON SPIRITED IDEA: TURN RECYCLED BAKED GOODS INTO VODKA

82

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

’T

is the season for sweet treats everywhere. Cakes, cookies, pies galore fill office desks and holiday tables. And while these goodies are great to gorge on, inevitably there is always more than enough to go around.

For the leftovers, two San Diego-area entrepreneurs, agricultural economist Sam Chereskin and artist/bartender Whit Regali, have a solution. The pair entered the craft vodka market with a product they say proves you can let them drink cake.

The San Marcos-based company is taking sustainability to a new level, the pair said, by using cakes, breads and other items destined for the trash bin in the distilling process. Each bottle of vodka they produce keeps about two pounds of food out of a landfill.

“This is where high-quality, good-tasting, lower-cost vodka can come from,” Chereskin said. >>>

San Diego’s BEST Golf Loyalty Program

MEMB ERSHIP B ENEFITS

Complimentary Round of Golf with Golf Car Upon Enrollment, Valid Anytime Up to 55% off Green Fees One Hour Early Twilight Access Same-Day Replay Rate of $20 to walk, $32 to Ride 10% Off Golf Shop Merchandise 15% Off Golf Instruction

10% Off Food Purchases Alcoholic beverages not included

Complimentary Green Fee During the Month of your Birthday Valid Mon-Fri any time, weekends & course holidays after 11am

Earn 1 Point for Every Dollar Spent in the Golf Shop, Restaurant, Lounge & Hotel REDEEM POINTS FOR EXCLUSIVE REWARDS!

15% Off Hotel Rooms Based on availability

2018

Receive ONE FREE round of golf with car Valid 7 Days a Week

3007 Dehesa Road / El Cajon, CA 92019 / 619.442.3425 / sycuanresort.com

TA ST E BEER CLOCKWISE (from left): Bottles of Misadventure Vodka; distillers (from left) Whit Rigali and Blake Carver make their vodka; Misadventure Vodka is made from salvaged wheat-based food products from area food banks.

“Everybody is getting on board with the sustainability movement and not wanting to add to the landfill. I think it’s kind of a new era.” ood waste is a serious issue across the nation, with between 30 to 40 percent of food tossed out instead of eaten, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which in 2013 teamed with the EPA with the goal of cutting America’s food waste in half by 2030.

Misadventure’s creative use of old baked goods has impressed Jim Floros, president and CEO of the San Diego Food Bank.

Each week, the two entrepreneurs take 1,500 pounds of leftover baked goods from the Food Bank and turn it into 250 bottles of vodka that are sold to local bars and eateries.

“They are taking product that we wouldn’t be serving and they are making a product out of it,” Floros said. “Everybody is getting on board with the sustainability movement and not wanting to add to the landfill. I think it’s kind of a new era.”

The Food Bank previously carted about 600,000 pounds of old food to the landfill each year, at a cost of about $35,000.

The company is moving toward becoming a zero-waste facility,

84

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

composting old food on site and producing more than 80 cubic yards of mulch that is distributed to the agency’s nonprofit partners for use in community gardens.

But sugary baked goods can’t be composted, Floros said, and the Food Bank’s nutrition policy prevents it from giving clients the many sheet cakes, pies and other sweets that are donated. Those items used to go in the trash.

The distillery takes “sheet cakes off our hands,” Floros said. “That is a big help.”

The vodka makers say the baked goods contain starches that can be converted to sugars, which are then fermented and distilled.

It takes roughly a week to go from bread to bottle.

The tradition of turning leftovers into spirits isn’t a new idea, Rigali said, but he and Chereskin believe they are among the first to use baked goods as the basis for vodka.

Even their waste has a use: A local farmer comes and picks up the 300 pounds of spent grain left over from the fermenting process each week. It gets fed to cows.

Before he was a distiller, Chereskin, 29, lived on the East Coast, where he worked to help African farmers. He eventually returned to his Encinitas roots and

met Rigali, 36, a Massachusetts transplant who shared his interest in distilling.

The idea of using old bread came to Chereskin when he was casting about for a starch to use, and soon realized that a portion of wasted food would contain exactly what they he needed.

Chereskin and Rigali — who says his great grandfather was a bootlegger — worked together for a year, testing, developing, improving the product. In December 2016, they hired their first employee: Blake Carver, director of business development.

In January, the trio moved the operation into a small spirits incubator in a San Marcos warehouse. They share space with seven other hopeful spirit makers.

The company sold its first bottle in June, to an Oceanside bar,

and Misadventure Vodka is now offered in 22 bars in coastal North County. It’s also sold online.

Señor Grubby’s, a taco shop on Carlsbad Village Drive, has been using the vodka, putting it in a fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice cocktail that they call Grubby’s Adventure. Customers seem to like it.

“We’ve gotten a great response so far,” said Grubby’s co-founder Justin Jachura.

He said he was sold on the vodka’s “delicious” taste, the sustainability aspect, and the fact that it comes from local distillers.

It may have started as cookies and cakes, but when the microdistillery is done with it, it’s 80 proof alcohol with a kick.

“If you had a crazy night,” Rigali said, “at least you don’t regret where you got your vodka from.”

THE PERFECT VENUE FOR...

FUNDRAISERS URBAN WEDDINGS C O R P O R AT E E V E N T S BIRTHDAY PARTIES REUNIONS

DECEMBER 22ND+23RD

C o n t a c t O u r P r i v a t e E v e n t s Te a m a t Events@MusicBoxSD.com | 619-738-0736

1337 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 | 619.795.1337 |

cdfl MusicBoxSD | www.MusicBoxSD.com

F E AT U R I N G K I M B A L I G H T T H I S D E C E M B E R

KIMBAlight is a tropical, high-energy, dance-provoking Afro-Cuban band fusing salsa, timba, merenge, bachata and reggae/reggaetón, with a touch of hip-hop and funk thrown in for good measure.

S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 N D // 1 0 P M - 2 A M S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 9 T H // 1 0 P M - 2 A M F R I D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 5 T H // 1 0 P M - 2 A M S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 3 R D // 1 0 P M - 2 A M -NO COVER CHARGEDowntown San Diego – Gaslamp Quarter, 904 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 // (619) 239-1800 // osetraseafoodandsteaks.com Proudly part of the San Diego Dining Group

GROOVE

SOUND DECISIONS / CONCERT CALENDAR

12.19

JAY-Z

@ VIEJAS ARENA, VIEJASARENA.COM

The superstar rapper, entrepreneur, and label head returns to San Diego. Born Shawn Carter, the MC and former president of Def Jam Recordings has sold over 100 million records and collected a whopping 21 Grammy Awards.

Carter’s personal life was made public last year when his equally famous wife, Beyoncé Knowles, documented his infidelities on her Grammy-winning Lemonade album. (continued on page 90)

WIN TO SETEICKETS JAY-Z PA

CIFIC Nation to gis teaming up with Liv iv e to Jay Z’ eaway a pair of ti Register to s 4:44 tour on Dec. 19ckets w . at pacificsain a pair of legit seats ndiego.com /JayZ.

88

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

DECEMBER

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

G R O OV E

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

SOUND DECISIONS

DECEMBETR Sounds Like A Plan Sounds Like A Plan R E C N O C CALENDAR 12.2 Syd

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Formerly the only female member of rap collective Odd Future, the lead vocalist of The Internet hits the road for a tour celebrating her February-released solo debut LP, Fin. Compton rapper Buddy also performs.

12.2 Aaron Neville

12.3 L.A.M.F.

@ Poway Center for the Arts, powaycenter.com The Grammy-winning and multiplatinum-selling New Orleans soul singer returns to San Diego for this Poway show. The 76-yearold, second-youngest Neville Brother released his latest solo album, Apache, last year.

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com It’s the 40th anniversary of Johnny Thunders & The Heartbreakers’ classic album L.A.M.F. this year. In honor of the milestone, Walter Lure (Heartbreakers), Mike Ness (Social D), Clem Burke (Blondie) and Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols) are going to get together and play the album in its entirety – and quite possibly a few other tunes as well. >>>

12.4

JEWEL

@ CIVIC THEATRE, SANDIEGOTHEATRES.ORG

JAY-Z

(continued from page 88)

He atoned this June throughout the surprise release of his 13th studio album, 4:44. The album also claimed the top spot on the Billboard 200, adding to Carter’s ongoing record for the most no.

1 albums on the chart by a solo artist (14). The rapper’s upcoming stop at Viejas Arena is his first in the area since 2013’s Magna Carter World Tour, and is the second-to-last date on his current 31-city North American run that started in October. Chicago up-and-comer Vic Mensa opens the show.

BRAD BARKET

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

LY N DA C H U R I L L A

90

Part of her Handmade Holiday Tour, the songwriter, author, poet and one-time San Diegan returns to her old stomping grounds for a night sponsored by Hallmark.

The unique event not only features the singer’s own family members, but a preshow workshop where attendees can make their own one-of-a-kind gifts.

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

12.5 Murs

12.5 Angus & Julia Stone

12.8, 9 Wrex The Halls

12.9 Cut Chemist

@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com Murs (aka rapper Nicholas Carter) set the Guinness World Record last year for rapping, without stopping, for 24 hours. Earlier this year, he released his 10th studio album, Captain California, on Tech N9ne’s Strange Music label.

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Australian sibling duo hits North Park as part of their U.S. Snow Tour, which follows the September release of their fourth studio album with the same name.

It also marks the first time the pair have co-written every song on one of their records.

@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com It’s a two-day musical extravaganza in Point Loma thanks to local radio station 91X. The first night features sets from Rise Against, Run the Jewels, The Used, The Struts, Highly Suspect and Buckfast Superbee. Things slow down a tad on night two when The Lumineers, Vance Joy, Dreamcar, The War on Drugs and Arkells take the stage.

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com The one-time Ozomatli and Jurassic 5 DJ recently announced plans to release his first album in a dozen years. Titled Die Cut, the turntablist’s forthcoming sophomore album will feature appearances from J5 member Chali 2na, tUnE-yArDs, Biz Markie and more.

12.8

CHRIS ROBINSON BROTHERHOOD @ HOUSE OF BLUES, HOUSEOFBLUES.COM/SANDIEGO

92

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

The former Black Crowes frontman continues to tour relentlessly, and release albums at a staggering pace, with his most recent 5-piece. Barefoot in the Head, the band’s third studio record in the last two years (and fifth overall), dropped in July.

12.9 Jamila Woods

12.9 Phoenix

12.12, 13 Chris Isaak

12.15 Julien Baker

@ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Known for collaborating with Chance the Rapper and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, the Chicago singer and poet released her debut album, HEAVN, last year via SoundCloud. Jagjaguwar rereleased it in August.

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com What? The French pop rockers are playing at the Observatory? Yup. And it’s already sold out.

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com The pompadoured crooner was last here in July when he played one of his routine stops at Humphreys. But Isaak returns for two nights of wicked games in Solana Beach that will have a holiday flavor to them.

@ The Irenic, theirenic.com The 22-year-old, Memphisborn/Nashville-based singer/ guitarist released her second album, Turn Out The Lights, in October. Baker has performed an NPR Tiny Desk Concert and is signed to Matador Records. >>>

DECEMBETR CONCER CALENDAR

12.13

METZ @ CASBAH, CASBAHMUSIC.COM

The Toronto-based punk trio refuses to take their feet off of the gas pedal on their September-released third album, Strange Peace. The 11-song collection continues their tradition of beating their instruments, as well as listeners’ eardrums, into submission. But it’s in the live setting when the Canadian three-piece really gets crazy.

J AY B L A K E S B E R G EBRU YILDIZ

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

93

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

12.16 Sir Mix A Lot + Tone Loc

12.17 Jhené Aiko

12.19 Kehlani

12.21 Fishbone

@ Sycuan, sycuan.com These two veteran rappers unite to search for big butts and those who like to do the wild thing. It’s a match made in strip club heaven and thematically on point!

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The R&B singer released her sophomore LP, Trip, in September.

It debuted at number five on the U.S. Billboard 200 and features collaborations with Kurupt, Brandy, boyfriend Big Sean and more.

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Oakland-based R&B singer kicked off 2017 with the January release of her debut album, SweetSexySavage. She returns to San Diego on her tour of the same name.

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com Nothing says the holidays are here like the veteran ska and funk collective’s 6th Annual Crazy Glue Xmas show. Not just for adhesive sniffers, this yuletide tradition is sure to get anyone’s chestnuts roasting. >>>

12.21

SUPERSUCKERS

@ CASBAH, CASBAHMUSIC.COM

DECEMBETR CONCER CALENDAR

Stage-three throat cancer survivor Eddie Spaghetti brings his cowpunk quartet back to San Diego. And this time, openers The Bellrays and Bombpops come with them.

HARMONY GERBER

94

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2017 SAN DIEGO MAN AND WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Ryan Melendez

Nicole Matthews The Henley Company The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society congratulates all the Man & Woman of the Year participants. Their efforts and commitment have made an impact in the search for cures and effective blood cancer therapies.

For more information visit www.mwoy.org/sd or call 858-277-1800.

10 5 5 F I F T H AV E N U E S A N D I E G O, C A 9 2 10 1 | FOR INFO & TIX 619.299.2583 Shows are all ages and standing room only unless otherwise noted. Show dates and times are subject to change.

Tickets subject to all applicable facility fees and service charges. Applicable fees and charges apply to all ticket sales.

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

95

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

12.21 Bone ThugsN-Harmony

12.22 X w/ Meat Puppets & Mike Watt

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The hip-hop five-piece started the year in San Diego with a January show featuring Warren G, DJ Quik, and the Dogg Pound. Now they’re back to close it down on their own.

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com X performing with the Meat Puppets and Mike Watt at the same show? Even punk fans with the spottiest understanding of the genre should be able to appreciate the awesomeness of this legendary triple bill.

12.27

12.22, 23 Ozomatli

12.23 Brian Setzer Orchestra

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Now in their 22nd year, the longrunning bilingual funk collective circles back around after last playing at the Embarcadero in August. The Los Angeles-based sextet served as the house band for all three seasons of Gabriel Iglesias’ Comedy Central show and also have released a children’s album.

@ Pechanga, pechanga.com The one-time Stray Cat has turned into much more of a festive feline in recent years and he keeps the tradition going with his 14th Annual Christmas Rocks! Tour. >>>

DECEMBETR CONCER CALENDAR

CHERRY GLAZERR @ OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK, OBSERVATORYSD.COM The young L.A. rockers released their third studio album, Apocalipstick, this year. Front woman Clementine Creevy has also appeared on television (Transparent) and in film (To the Bone).

FELISHA TOLENTINO

96

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

DECEMBETR CONCER CALENDAR 12.29, 30 The Mattson 2 @ Casbah, casbahmusic.com The twin sibling duo had left San Diego for seven years before recently moving back. The jazzrock powerhouses celebrate the homecoming with a pair of year-end shows at the Casbah.

12.30 E-40 @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com The veteran Bay Area rapper, actor and entrepreneur played the same venue in May, but returns to finish what he started. The performer born Earl Stevens released his 23rd and 24th studio albums, The D-Boy Diary: Book 1 and 2, last year.

12.31 Little Hurricane @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Ring in the New Year with San Diego’s best rock and blues duo, who both performed at KAABOO this year and released their third album, Same Sun Same Moon. The super San Diego-centric line-up also includes Birdy Bardot, The Midnight Pine and Dani Bell & The Tarantist.

12.29-30

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE @ BELLY UP, BELLYUP.COM

Louisiana brass man Troy Andrews brings his 10-piece ensemble to the beach for a two-night stand.

The band’s latest album, Parking Lot Symphony, was released on Blue Note Records in April.

98

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

G R O OV E SPIN CYCLE

take a

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

DECEMBER EDM & DJ PERFORMANCES

elephante

@ OMNIA, OMNIANIGHTCLUB.COM O H DAG YO P H O T O G R A P H Y

After releasing his full-length debut album last year, Michigan-born Harvard grad Tim Wu has released a pair of singles in 2017: May’s Troubled (feat. Deb’s Daughter) and the October-released Come Back For you (feat. Matluck).

100

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

12.2 Groundwater @ The Park at Petco Park, crssd.com

Swapping two days for one, and coming a bit later than last year’s October event, Groundwater’s current visit includes heavy-hitting house DJs Maya Jane Coles, Claptone, and Felix Da Housecat. Headliner and Dirtybird Records boss Claude VonStroke teamed with Will Clarke and Sebastien V on August’s two-song single, Works Well With Others.

12.7 Lil Jon

Sander van Dijck’s remix of Dr. Dre’s The Next Episode has 152 million YouTube views and counting. He tapped James Vincent McMorrow for his September-released single, The Future, and seven other artists for the recent If Only.

12.14 Rezz @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com

The 22-year old Canadian producer, also known as Isabelle Rezazadeh, released her eight-song debut album, Mass Manipulation, on the mau5trap label in August.

@ Omnia, omnianightclub.com

The DJ, producer, and Grammy-winning King of Crunk heads back to America’s Finest City after he and Skellism dropped In The Pit (feat. Terror Bass) in June. And thanks to a September remix by MaNa, he’s once again barking the greeting on a new version of Alvaro & Mercer’s 2013 single, Welcome to the Jungle.

12.15 Andrew Rayel @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

The 24-year-old Moldovan trance DJ and producer was signed to Armada Records by co-founder Armin van Buuren.

Rayel released his 16-track LP, Moments, in May. He followed it with the single, Mass Effect, in September.

12.16 Juan Maclean 12.8 Slow Magic

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com

In October, the anonymous electronic music producer released his 13-song third album, Float. It features appearances from the likes of singer/songwriter MNDR and The Antlers’ songwriter/ vocalist Peter Silberman.

The Juan Maclean, aka electronic musician/DJ John MacLean, returns to San Diego after the November release of The Brighter the Light. The four-song single includes remixes of the title track by DJ Tennis, Len Leise, and Octo Octa. Marcus Marr is also on the bill.

12.8 The Him

12.16 4B

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com

The Amsterdam-based DJ duo of Jeroen Kerstens and Steven Berghuijs released a pair of singles earlier this year — Oasis (feat. Sorana) and Everybody Hurts (feat. Ivy Adara). They followed it with another in November, Always.

The New Jersey-based DJ has released tracks on Diplo’s Mad Decent and Steve Aoki’s Dim Mak Records. In March, he teamed with Junkie Kid for the release of the collaborative single, Love Is Dead.

12.16 Two Friends @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

@ Spin, spinnightclub.com

The L.A.-based DJ duo of Matt Halper and Eli Sones dropped a pair of singles in September — While We’re Dreaming

Here last year as part of Valley View Casino Center’s Tramps Like Us show, the Dutch DJ

12.29 Keys N Krates @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com

Toronto’s DJ/electronic/ percussion trio of David Matisse, Adam Tune and Jr. Flo are signed to Steve Aoki’s Dim Mak. They released new single Glitter (feat. Ambré Perkins) last month.

12.29 ZHU @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com

The L.A.-based DJ and former CRSSD headliner recently remixed the Portugal. The Man hit I Feel It Still and Gorillaz single Andromeda. His foursong stardustexhalemarrakechdreams EP dropped in August.

12.30, 31 OMFG! NYE 2018 @ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com

Slimming down from four to two days this year, the annual EDM extravaganza is always a great way to end the year. It’s a no-brainer when you add the fact that this one is going to be anchored by Zedd, Dillon Francis, and Tiesto. NGHTMRE, Illenium, San Holo, Ghastly, and more also perform.

12th Planet @ BASSMNT, BASSMNTSD.COM

John Dadzie, aka dubstep/ drum & bass DJ 12th Planet, has worked extensively with Skrillex and been seen at Coachella, Ultra, and Electric Daisy Carnival. His five-song Let Us Prey EP dropped in September.

12.31 Lane 8 @ Spin, spinnightclub.com

Lane 8, aka Denver-based deep house DJ Daniel Goldstein, is set to release his sophomore LP, Little By Little, in January. The first single from the album, No Captain (feat.

POLIÇA), is out now.

12.31 Ghastly @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com

The Arizona-born, Californiabased DJ followed the release of his singles We Might Fall with Matthew Koma (May) and Geisha (August) with new track, I’ll Wait, at the end of October.

K E N N YO N G . C O M

12.10 San Holo

(feat. Kevin Writer) and a Zack Martino & Beauaz remix of Emily (feat. James Delaney).

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

101

l ov E B L I N D DAT E

PLAYING THE FIELD

A SOCCER PRO AND A SEATTLEITE SEARCH FOR COMMON GOALS

B

lind daters McKenna and Eli just met for the first time on the field at Valley View Casino Center. Eli, who plays defender for the San Diego Sockers, is about to run through a quick warmup with McKenna before dinner at the Cohn Restaurant Group’s new Draft Republic in Carlsbad. But before they get their heart rates up, let’s review their pre-date interviews.

PACIFIC: Where are you from and where do you live now?

McKENNA: I moved to San Diego a little over four years ago from Seattle to go to school. I fell in love with San Diego and didn’t move back after I graduated.

ELI: I was born and raised in San Diego, currently residing in Encinitas.

What do you do for a living?

McKENNA: I currently work a fulltime job downtown and have another job on the side. I’m trying to save up some money to go back to get my master’s, or maybe a boob job. I haven’t decided which of the two will help make me more money yet.

ELI: All soccer, all the time! I play professionally, coach three club teams and am the head coach of freshman soccer at Cathedral Catholic High School.

KC A L F R E D

Why are you going on a blind date in PACIFIC magazine?

McKENNA: Somehow I let PACIFIC’s matchmaker peer pressure me into it? Plus, it sounded less sketchy than Tinder or Bumble.

ELI: I was asked to do it for promotional purposes, but it sounded fun, so why not? I have an open mind and easy personality, so I thought it’d be a good opportunity for something new. I’ve never been on a blind date, let alone one that’s on camera!

What do you do for fun?

McKENNA: I spend my days off at the beach, Disneyland or going out with my friends.

ELI: First and foremost, I love being with friends and family, golfing, running, going to the beach, camping and listening to live music. I am a big fan of Tottenham Hotspur (a Premier League football club). I love waking up early on the weekends to nerd out and watch my favorite team.

What are you best at?

McKENNA: I’m best at embarrassing myself in public. I can only imagine how I’m about to embarrass myself on this date.

104

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

ELI: Focusing on my football, health and career.

What do you suck at?

McKENNA: I absolutely suck at being on time. I’m at least 5 minutes late to everything.

ELI: (Laughs) I’m not a very good swimmer!

What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise?

McKENNA: I’m looking for someone who has a great sense of humor, is ambitious and kind.

ELI: I think it’s just about having someone you genuinely enjoy being around after a long day.

Describe your special brand of sex appeal in five words or less.

McKENNA: Sweet and sassy.

ELI: Fun-loving, intelligent, flirty, fit, loyal.

What do you like least about yourself?

McKENNA: I love myself and try to embrace all my flaws and little quirks.

ELI: Time management, never enough time in the day.

Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks.

McKENNA: I prefer not to rate myself on a scale. I will say that after a few tequila shots, I start to think I’m Beyoncé.

ELI: I asked Siri, her response: “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate.” She’s really great, sometimes.

Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality.

McKENNA: I’m a mix of April

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER PHOTOS BY DAVID BROOKS MATCHMAKING BY JESSICA PELLIGRA

Ludgate and Jesus.

ELI: I can confidently say 9-plus.

What’s your biggest fear?

McKENNA: It’s a tie between getting murdered and disappointing my parents.

ELI: Snakes and sharks.

What traits might your date exhibit that would be complete deal-breakers?

McKENNA: Smoking is a big deal-breaker to me because of my asthma. Also, just being an ass to others for no reason is a no for me.

ELI: Being rude — I don’t like being around negative people. There’s enough going on in the world these days: the least we can do is be kind to one another.

How many people have you slept with?

McKENNA: Considering my mom could read this, I’m going to say I’m saving it for marriage.

ELI: Wouldn’t you like to know?

Fill in the blanks: I want my blind date to be “blank” and “blank.”

McKENNA: I want my blind date to be kind and, hopefully, also Liam Hemsworth.

ELI: I want my date to be smart and funny. I know, real original.

Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less?

McKENNA: I’ll let the tequila decide.

ELI: If it feels right, perhaps.

What’s the most important thing in the world?

McKENNA: I’m going to have to go with puppies and margaritas.

Eli: The people who live in it. >>>

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

105

l ov E B L I N D DAT E

TOP: Eli presents McKenna with a gift from the team, a San Diego Sockers swag bag.

BOTTOM: Eli gives McKenna a soccer lesson to see if she has the right moves.

COMING UP FOR AIR

ELI LEAVES MCKENNA BREATHLESS

E

li starts the date by presenting McKenna with a Sockers swag basket, then gets into a warmup with a light jog around the stadium followed by a quick run through a cone-lined obstacle course. Before long, McKenna busts out her inhaler and asks for a quick timeout. “An asthma attack a day is good for you,” she quips. Once she catches her breath, Eli goes over some ball-handling basics and shows off his fancy footwork.

Amid all the activity, there’s not a ton of time for the daters to simply chat, and what conversation does take place seems stifled. Eli attempts to lighten the mood by putting a soccer ball under his shirt, and before long, the two change out of their athletic wear and into evening attire. Before the daters step back into the limo, McKenna mentions that she’s famous for

106

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

doing the splits at bars, which elicits a big smile from Eli as they head to the next location.

The ride up to North County gives the couple time to talk in private, and both seem much more at ease upon arrival at Draft Republic. McKenna and Eli grab a quick drink, play a few games and order their entrees before we split them up for mid-date debriefings.

normally date?

McKENNA: Probably not typically, but (the one’s I normally date are) clearly not working for me so far, so I’m glad I’m here.

ELI: Yes. You know, I wasn’t told she has asthma. And I ran her through a gnarly soccer lesson, but it was a lot of fun and she was super cool and open. That’s first and foremost what I look for in a mate.

How’s it going so far?

McKENNA: Other than my mild asthma attack, I would say it’s going good. I probably should have warned him that my lungs suck. But I made it. A+ for effort.

ELI: Going really well. I think McKenna is a really cool girl, has a great personality and an open mind. It’s been a lot of fun so far.

What do you think of the way your date is dressed?

McKENNA: I honestly haven’t even looked at what he was wearing, not once. I’m still a little lightheaded.

ELI: Both (of her outfits) were very stylish and attractive. I think she’s very pretty.

Is this the type of person you’d

How are you liking Draft Republic?

McKENNA: So far, so good. They’re

very accommodating of my dietary needs, since I’m vegan. The guy offered lots of suggestions, and the margarita is amazing.

ELI: I’ve been here a few times before. It’s got a good vibe with the games and the good food, so it’s a good Friday night or Saturday night.

How was your experience at Valley View Casino Center?

McKENNA: We can go back to question one on that: my asthma attack. But otherwise, it was great.

ELI: (Jokes) Never been there before, first time. Love all the big lights and the big show, but it was a great time, getting to know my date in a little bit more of a technical, physical way in the game of soccer. She was a trooper and hung with me, so it was a lot of fun. >>>

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

107

l ov E B L I N D DAT E CLOCKWISE (from top left): Draft Republic’s crispy Brussel sprouts made with house-cured ham hock, apple cider reduction, whole grain mustard vinaigrette and a poached egg; Eli and McKenna enjoy Coronas on their date; Eli and McKenna make a toast at Draft Republic; veggie burger with fries and a side salad at Draft Republic.

What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far?

McKENNA: Kicked my ass at soccer. He got nice and sweaty.

His ball-handling skills.

ELI: Hanging in the soccer realm.

She doesn’t know much about it, and it’s something I do daily. It’s a part of my routine, so she did a lot by doing what I do. She didn’t die, still alive. [For the] second date, she needs to be living.

What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far?

McKENNA: I can’t think of anything. He said the word “retarded” once, and that’s a no for me, but that’s not too bad. He made a joke about meth, but you

108

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

know, we’re going to look past that.

ELI: She has not made any mistakes. I think the least attractive thing I’ve done is not knowing she has asthma, and I put her through a pretty challenging session.

Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks.

McKENNA: He’s nice.

ELI: I don’t like to be too judgmental with my opinion of people’s looks. She’s definitely above an eight.

And for personality?

McKENNA: He’s nice. I wouldn’t even rate myself, so…

ELI: Definitely above a nine.

What’s your date’s most attractive quality?

McKENNA: I’m sure he’s in shape.

ELI: She has a very pretty face.

What’s your date’s least attractive quality?

McKENNA: No comment.

ELI: I don’t focus on negatives.

Do you want to kiss your date right now?

McKENNA: I mean, I typically don’t kiss on the first date. I try to keep it classy. A few more drinks, and it’s questionable.

ELI: I would.

Does your date want to kiss you?

McKENNA: I couldn’t tell you. I

don’t know.

ELI: I don’t think so.

How and when will the date end?

McKENNA: Considering I have work at 9 a.m. tomorrow, I’m probably going to go home and sleep after this, because I’m old.

ELI: When? When they drop us off.

How? Planning a second date.

Anything you’d like to add?

McKENNA: Shout out to my mom.

She’s great. Shout out to my rabbits. They definitely read in their spare time.

ELI: I want to say hi to my mom and dad for sure. Something corny like that. >>>

l ov E B L I N D DAT E

FEELING A DRAFT E li deserves a yellow card for putting his skillful foot in his mouth, but McKenna finds it in her heart to look past his faux pas.

Both daters seem to be breathing a bit easier, so we pack up for the night, and follow up the next morning to find out what we missed.

How was your experience and dinner at Draft Republic?

McKENNA: I really enjoyed it, the food was really great and it was a good atmosphere. The games were fun to play.

ELI: It was a lot of fun. The food was good, and the drinks were good. It was good to get some time in the limo to get to know each other a little more where we didn’t have cameras in our face the whole time. It was enjoyable.

What did you eat and drink there?

110

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CLOCKWISE (from left): Eli and McKenna have dinner at Draft Republic in Carlsbad; the Bacon + Blue Burger consists of a 1/2 pound grass-fed beef patty, bacon and bleu cheese, caramelized onions held together by a pretzel bun and served with a house salad and parmesan fries; Eli and McKenna play shuffleboard at Draft Republic; Eli’s drink of choice: a Samurai Old-Fashioned made with Suntory Toki Japanese whisky, brown sugar simple syrup and bitters.

McKENNA: I had a jalapeño margarita, and then I had a veggie burger. They made it vegan for me, and they were super accommodating and nice.

ELI: I had a Japanese whiskey old fashioned at the restaurant, it was a fantastic drink. I’m a bourbon fan, so it was a nice little change. To eat, I had Brussels sprouts, which was also very, very good, and my main course was a bacon and bleu burger, which was awesome as well.

Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after dinner?

McKENNA: After dinner, I went home and went to bed, because I had to work early this morning.

ELI: We took a pretty long time, so I was dropped off after dinner.

And then she had to get driven back down to San Diego (Eli lives in North

County), so I just stayed home.

When did you get home?

McKENNA: Before midnight.

ELI: I got home at like, 11.

Was there a kiss or romantic exchange?

McKENNA: No, there was a friendly hug goodbye.

ELI: No, no, we got along real well, but there wasn’t too much intimacy.

Fill in the blanks. I wish my date had a bigger “blank” and a smaller “blank.”

McKENNA: Oh my goodness, I honestly, I can’t say anything bad about him. He was super sweet.

I’m trying to think of an answer for that, but he was super nice. I wouldn’t change anything.

ELI: Umm, let’s see… Bigger…

That’s a tough one…

What’s the funniest thing that happened during the date?

McKENNA:Probably when I first had an asthma attack while he made me run during our soccer experience, and I had to use my inhaler. I knew I would embarrass myself some way, and it happened.

ELI: Well, I didn’t know that she was asthmatic, and so I was running her through these drills and I thought everything was cool. It was kind of, not that high intensity, but a pretty decent level, and I guess she was having a hard time breathing. I had no idea, but I felt really bad after, I found out that she was having to use her inhaler. That could have gone a little bit more smoothly, but it was funny. I almost killed her, but everything’s good. I got her telephone number, so I don’t think it ended too poorly. >>>

l ov E B L I N D DAT E

What was the best part of the date and why?

McKENNA: The best part …

Probably the jalapeño margarita. It was delicious.

ELI: The best part of the date was the fantastic food and drink, as well as the company.

What was the worst part of the date and why?

McKENNA: Running laps around a soccer field — because exercise and running.

ELI: Finding out I almost killed her or had her go into cardiac arrest. Luckily, everything was good, and I don’t think there’s any hard feelings either way, so it’s a positive thing.

Will there be a second date? Why or why not?

McKENNA: I don’t know. He was super nice and we exchanged phone numbers, but we’ll see.

ELI: I probably don’t think so, but you never know. She’s a little bit younger and we’re kind of in different places,

but you never know.

What’s one thing your date really should know before going on another date?

McKENNA: Don’t make me run, because I have asthma. Oh my gosh, he found out, and he felt so bad. Apparently he didn’t even see me use my inhaler. And then later, the photographer made a joke about it and Eli felt so bad.

ELI: She should know that her soccer-playing ability or her physical ability will not be tested on the next date that she goes on.

What could have made this date better?

McKENNA: More time to talk before it happened, because I just showed up and then they started filming and we started running through the soccer stuff, and we didn’t even really have a chance to get to know each other before, which was a little awkward, but it was fine.

ELI: We didn’t have too much time to actually just kind of chat and

talk, but everything we were doing was a lot of fun so it was a great time, but it ended pretty quickly without us having too much time to really conversate, but like I said, it was a really good time.

Anything else you’d like to add?

McKENNA: Not that I can think of.

I’m really appreciative of the whole situation. I really enjoyed it. It was a good experience.

ELI: No, I don’t think so. I just thought McKenna was a really nice girl and I had a great time with this kind of dif-

ferent, strange, awkward experience, but it was a really good time.

AFTERMATCH Despite both daters putting their best feet forward, there doesn’t appear to be much of a spark between these two. And while that doesn’t necessarily mean there won’t be second date, like McKenna, we’re not holding our breath.

EDITOR’S NOTE: In certain cases, daters’ answers have been abridged for space and to add clarity.

THANK YOU to (and promotional consideration provided by): Epic Limo, 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com; San Diego Sockers, sdsockers.com; Draft Republic Carlsbad, 760.448.4627, cohnrestaurants.com/draftrepublic-carlsbad

112

DECEMBER 2017 | @PACIFICSD

@PACIFICSD | DECEMBER 2017

113

WANT TO ELIMINATE STUBBORN FAT WITHOUT SURGERY OR DOWNTIME?

Butt of course!

Get rid of fat with the CoolSculpting® procedure, which can help you look and feel better by eliminating fat cells safely, simply and affordably.

When you look back, it may prove to be the best decision you’ve ever made for your self-confidence and beauty.

For a complimentary evaluation, call 1.844.SDBOTOX, or visit sdbotox.com to see before and after pictures and schedule an appointment.

EFFECTIVE FOR FAT REMOVAL FROM UNDERNEATH THE BUTTOCKS, THIGHS, ABDOMEN, LOVE HANDLES, DOUBLE CHIN AND MORE. AVAILABLE AT SDBOTOX.

3900 FIFTH AVE., STE. #140, SAN DIEGO, CA 92103 1.844.SDBOTOX, SDBOTOX.COM

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN COMPLIMENTARY COOLSCULPTING® TREATMENTS ON TWO AREAS OF YOUR BODY ($1,500 VALUE) FROM SAN DIEGO BOTOX, VISIT PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM/COOLSCULPTING. Results and patient experience may vary. While CoolSculpting® is safe, some rare side effects may occur. As with any medical procedure, only your CoolSculpting® provider can help you decide if CoolSculpting® is right for you.

In the U.S., the CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thigh, abdomen and flank. Outside the U.S., the CoolSculpting® procedure for non-invasive fat reduction is available worldwide. ZELTIQ, CoolSculpting®, the CoolSculpting® logo, the Snowflake design, and Fear No Mirror are registered trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2017. All rights reserved. IC1916-A