January 2014 — The Photography Issue

SEEN DIEGO photo contest: Local photographers shoot for loot

San Diego

january 2014

pa c i f i c s a n d i e g o . c o m

UN-SCENE: San Diego ’s underexposed sights and sites January’s Motion Picture Preview Warming Trends: Hot Looks for Cold Weather

barleymash

WELCOME TO 2014 à Ý à Ýá ÝÜ àÝ àÜ ÝÜ

DOWNTOWN – GASLAMP | 919 4th AVENUE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 | 619.231.9200 | BASSMNTSD.COM /BASSMNTSD

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[01.14]

Shutter the Thought

A 75-year lifetime lasts 2.4 billion seconds. Here are 120 of mine, starting from when I got my iPhone 2.

now that Stopping to smell the roses involves taking a photograph, life goes Tic-toc, tic-toc, click.

And then, in a flash...

­­— editor-in-chief, david perloff

San Die

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E DI T OR - IN - C H I E F

David Perloff

C R E A T I V E DIR E C T OR

Kenny Boyer M ANAGING E DI T OR

Patricia B. Dwyer E DI T ORIA L A S S I S T AN T

Catlin Dorset E DI T OR - A T - L ARG E

Ron Donoho

C ON T RI B U T ING W RI T E R S

David Coddon, Tristan Dorian, Brandon Hernández, Brandon Matzek, Dan McLellan, Megan Meyer, David Moye, David Nelson, Frank Sabatini Jr. C ON T RI B U T ING P H O T OGRA P H E R S

Brevin Blach, Paul Body, Michael Jaffe, Brandon Matzek, Dan McLellan, Kristina Yamamoto

PUBLISHER

David Perloff Simone Perloff DIR E C T OR OF AD V E R T I S ING

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Vicki Marangos (vicki@pacificsandiego.com) P RO M O T ION S M ANAG E R

Katie Dunn (katie@pacificsandiego.com) A C C OUN T E X E C U T I V E S

Brennan MacLean (brennan@pacificsandiego.com)

Johnny Wiskow (johnny@pacificsandiego.com) IN T E RN S

Kevin Brazie, Jessica LaFontaine

Reach America’s Finest readers via print, web, social media and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! 619.296.6300, pacificsandiego.com, facebook.com/pacificsd, Twitter @pacificsd

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JANUARY 2014

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Contents [ PACIFICSANDIEGO . CO M ]

San Diego [ J AN U ARY

2014]

Features

52 page

SEEN DIEGO

Photo contest for cash and glory

60 page

un-Scene

Shedding light on underexposed corners of the urban landscape

ON THE COVER: “Pacific Beach from the Clouds” Above Mission Beach, 2013 Photo by Kara Watkins Seen Diego photo contest First Place winner THIS PAGE: “Salton Sea Pilings” Salton Sea, 2013 Photo by Bradley Schweit Seen Diego photo contest Third Place winner

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Contents [ PACIFICSANDIEGO . CO M ]

San Diego [ J AN U ARY

2014]

DEPARTMENTS CURRENTS

23 GOTTA Sea This Mingle a moment

with marine

mega-mammals

48 SCARVING FOR

ATTENTION Neckwear for

making heads turn

26 One.Fourteen

January event

listings

TASTE

71 Seasonings

Greetings Say hello to the

spicy selection of

new restaurants

the city’s taste-

makers are

cooking up

30 In The Swing

Of Things Major tennis

tournament to

be played in San Diego

80 Honor Roll San Diego sushi

chef competes

on Japanese

reality show

30 Kickin’ It San Diego’s

winning soccer

coach shoots for

a new goal

PULSE

33 Pixel Perfect A photography

museum’s

existential

transition to digital

imagery 38 Taking Another

Shot Thanks to a local

software firm,

even mis-taken

pictures get a

second chance

to shine 40

Art Beat January’s museum and gallery openings

42 Laughing Stock

January’s stand-

up line-up 46 Think Outside the Box Office

January’s motion

picture preview

20

PACIFICSANDIEGO.com

“The Flight of the Whales”

by Jorge Gutierrez

82 Gnocch-Gnocch

Joke But seriously, you

can do this 86 One for the Books A published San Diego

bartender’s

recipe for success

GROOVE

91 Sound Decisions

January concert

calendar 100 Spin CycLE

January EDM events 102 Outpouring Of

Support Give yourself a

hand — and

another round

LOVE

104 ON THE PROWL Documenting the

dating habits of

urban wildcats

JANUARY 2014

SEE MO RE ART ON PAG E 40

THINK

114 Happy Medium A look ahead from

a psilly psychic

1/11-1/31

Visual Shop 3776 30th St., North Park 619.501.5585 visualshopsd.com

“The Parallax”

by Jorge Gutierrez San Diego artist Jorge Gutierrez will display a dual body of work at Visual Shop, presenting portraits alongside surreal images he conjured to depict his subjects’ subconscious.

C U RRENTS [ FIRST THINGS ]

GOTTA SEA THIS Mingle a moment with marine mega-mammals B y C a tl i n D o r set

W GRAY MATTERS: A gray whale takes a dive for specatators

hat’s fun for kids often isn’t for twentysomethings and other ancient folk. But as the annual Big Bay Whale Festival migrates back to Downtown’s Broadway Pier, there will be (continued on page 24) tons of flipping fun for all ages.

JANUARY 2014

PACIFIcSANDIEGO.com

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cu r r e n t s [ FIRST

THINGS ]

(continued from page 23)

W

hile live bands, flamenco dancers and “splash mobs” (last year’s involved zombies dancing to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”) entertain on-shore crowds during the January 25 event, the possibility of catching sight of a whale will turn festival-goers’ attention to the ocean.

“Gray whales like shallow waters and thus tend to stay very close to shore during their migrations,” says Ana Sirovic, assistant research oceanographer at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. “I’ve seen them often from Scripps Park in La Jolla, but other good locations to spot the whales are Sunset Cliffs and Cabrillo National Monument. Really, any beach might work, as long as you have some time, patience and a bit of luck.”

San Diego “Whale Watching” seasons exist thanks to the semiannual migration of Grays, 30-to-40-ton giants journeying between Alaska and Baja California, Mexico. Travelling in small groups called “pods,” roughly 20,000 whales will pass through America’s Finest waters on their 6,000-mile trip south to make sweet love and give birth in the warm, protected waters of Baja’s lagoons.

To see and touch live sea creatures, run through an inflatable obstacle course and walk through a model whale, check out the family-friendly Festival. To spot a gray whale for reals, hop on a boat (see sidebar) or head to the coast with binoculars and look west.

1/25: Big Bay Whale Festival Location: Port Pavilion on the Broadway Pier, Downtown Admission: Free Info: whaledays.com

Sea Sure

In case you don’t have a boat or a friend that does, snag a whale of a ride-along with one of these San Diego companies. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, San Diego Whale Watch promises a second chance, giving those who don’t get to shout “Spout!” a free return trip to sea... to see.

San Diego Whale Watch 1717 Quivira Rd., Mission Bay 619.839.0128, sdwhalewatch.com Pacific Nature Tours 1717 Quivira Rd., Mission Bay 619.534.9249, pacificnaturetours.com Hornblower Cruises 970 N. Harbor Dr. and 1800 N. Harbor Dr., Downtown 619.686.8700, hornblower.com

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JANUARY 2014

cu r r e n t s [ calendar]

o n e . f o u r t e e n [ january

2014]

1/23-26: farmers insurance open Torrey Pines Golf Course

Admission: $40-$45 Info: farmersinsuranceopen.com Top players from the PGA tour will compete in this annual golf tournament at Torrey Pines. (continued on page 28)

Tiger Woods took the trophy at the 2013 Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.

GETTY IMAGES

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JANUARY 2014

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cu r r e n t s

[ january

[ calendar]

o n e . f o u r t e e n

(continued from page 26)

1/1-5: San Diego International Auto Show Location: San Diego Convention Center, Downtown Admission: $12 Info: sdautoshow.com Kick the tires of more than 400 new cars and check out the Exotics Vault, featuring Ferraris, Maseratis and Bentleys you should probably kick less hard.

1/4: Resolution Run 5K/15K Location: Tecolote Shores Park, Mission Bay Admission: $35-$50 Info: sandiegoresolutionrun.com In case your resolutions last a whole half-week, run a 5K or 15K to benefit your own health while supporting the San Diego Roots Sustainable Food Project.

JANUARY 2014

1/19-24: San Diego Restaurant Week Location: Nearly 200 restaurants throughout San Diego Admission: Lunch for $10, $15 or $20; dinner for $25, $35 or $45 Info: sandiegorestaurantweek.com Dine at a discount as scores of San Diego restaurants offer prix-fixe three-course lunches and dinners during this semi-annual gastronomic tradition.

1/26-27: San Diego Cat Show Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds Admission: $9 Info: sandiegocat.org You don’t have to be a pussy to attend the San Diego Cat Show, but it helps. Adopting a cat and watching felines run the obstacle course? Fur sure!

Daze of our Lives Stop and smell the roses (and the squirrels, on 1/21) during these January holidays

1/3: Fruitcake Toss Day You didn’t actually hang on to it this long, did you?

1/3: Humiliation Day Blush often and make others do the same.

1/8: Male Watcher’s Day Ogle, hoot and holler at hot men of every variety.

1/18: Monster Jam Location: Qualcomm Stadium, Mission Valley Admission: $15-$35 Info: monsterjam.com Join the tens of thousands of spectators watching Grave Digger and other jacked-up monster trucks demolish the dirt track and eardrums at Qualcomm Stadium.

1/19: Carlsbad Marathon Location: Westfield Plaza Camino Real, Carlsbad Admission: $105-$135 Info: carlsbadmarathon.com Live bands at every mile help set the pace for this annual marathon (and half-marathon) that brings 10,000 competitors to the Carlsbad coastline.

amy b o y l e

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1/17-19: The Del Mar Antique Show Location: O’Brien Pavilion, Del Mar Fairgrounds Admission: $8 Info: calendarshows.com Get Grandma’s heirlooms appraised for $5 apiece and shop for antiques from more than 200 dealers.

F e l d M o t o r S p o r ts

1/7-12: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Location: Civic Theatre, Downtown Admission: $35-$117 Info: sandiegotheatres.org Broadway San Diego presents this live musical performance of the Academy Award-winning animated tale of two starcrossed lovers and their singing household furniture.

1/12: John Edward Location: The US Grant Hotel, Downtown Admission: $150 Info: johnedward.net The renowned psychic medium sees dead people, talks to them and shares what they say to him with the audience.

d e l ma r r e n d e z v o u s

1/1: Polar Bear Swim Location: Kellogg Park, La Jolla Shores Admission: Free Info: lajollacoveswimclub.com Shake off the New Year’s Eve hangover with a dip in the chilly Pacific, followed by complimentary hot cider, coffee and a chili potluck.

28

2014]

1/10: Peculiar People Day Compliment Aunt Gertie on her porcelain doll collection.

1/25: Caffeine Crawl Location: Coffee houses around San Diego Admission: $30 Info: caffeinecrawl.com Get amped on local roasts (and teas and chocolates) by following one of four self-guided driving/ tasting tours of the city’s coffee shops and artisan bean purveyors, then join other caffeine fiends for the afterparty at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters in La Jolla.

1/13: International Skeptics Day Doubt it.

1/16: National Nothing Day Get some!

1/18: Winnie the Pooh Day Watch out for Heffalumps and Woozles.

1/21: National Hugging Day Keep an eye on your wallet.

1/21: Squirrel Appreciation Day Go nuts!

1/24: Beer Can Appreciation Day At least appreciate what’s inside it.

C U RRENTS [ S P ORTS ]

In the Swing of Things Major tennis tournament to be played in San Diego B y D a n M c L ell a n

P

etco Park will be the site of world-class tennis competition when San Diego hosts the first round of the 2014 Davis Cup, January 31 to February 2.

The United States-Great Britain rivalry is the oldest in Davis Cup history, dating back to the first competition in 1900, when the U.S. defeated the Brits in Boston.

This year, ‘Merica has the advantage again, as the matches will be played (for the first time since 1992) on clay courts, a surface British competitors Jim Courier

1/31-2/2 Davis Cup daviscup.com

seldom see at home.

The U.S. will likely need the edge in singles play, as reigning Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is expected to compete for Great Britain.

“Andy Murray is one of the strongest players in the sport,” says U.S. Davis Cup captain Jim Courier.

The U.S. should have the advantage in the pivotal doubles match when twin brothers Robert and Michael Bryan take the court. The power duo is ranked first in the world and has won more professional tournaments than any other doubles team.

—U.S. Davis Cup captain Jim Courier

Kickin’ it

San Diego’s winning soccer coach TARGETS a new goal B y D a n M c L ell a n

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JANUARY 2014

Things are Going Swimmingly: D A N M C L E LL A N

W

hen the first World Cup for arena soccer is held in February 2015, San Diego will be one of four cities to host the tournament, which will include teams from 16 nations.

“The World Cup is special, especially having the first one in the U.S.A,” says San Diego Sockers head coach Phil Salvagio, who will coach the U.S. National Team. “It’s really good for our sport of Indoor to show the world that indoor players in the U.S. are better than our

outdoor teams. We can win this World Cup.” Crowds for arena soccer have been exploding.

The Sockers drew more than 5,400 to their season opener, and the World Cup promises to be the perfect platform to advance the sport even further.

“It’s huge,” says Kevin Milliken, commissioner of the Professional Arena Soccer League (PASL). “It’s just the natural progression of growth to take [arena soccer] to the international level.”

Milliken says Salvagio was selected as the U.S. National Team coach because he understands the big picture and business side of a World Cup. Salvagio has also proven he can assemble a winning team.

San Diego has won the PASL championship for four straight seasons, but there are no guarantees the national team will be comprised of predominantly Sockers players.

“I am going to be watching every player that we play against,” says Salvagio, who’s searching for the best talent available to represent the United States. “Everyone is going to try to beat us and look good.” fifra.org

A R I A N A R A NDL E P H O T O G R A P H Y

“Andy Murray is one of the strongest players in the sport”

The 2014 Socker Girls swimsuit calendar is available now at sockergirls. com. “Not only are our girls all beautiful,” says Socker Girls director Andria Elam, “you will notice that the photos are a real reflection of who [the girls] are on the inside.”

“The World Cup is special, especially having the first one in the U.S.A.” —San Diego Sockers head coach Phil Salvagio

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P U L SE

PIXEL PERFECT

A PHOTOGRAPHY museum’s transition to digital imagery

[ ARTS ]

By David L. Coddon ph o t o b y k r i st i n a y a m a m o t o (continued on page 34)

This installation shows the amount of images uploaded to Flickr.com from around the world in 1/60th of a second (a standard shutter speed for editorial photography), making statements about the disposability of photography and how everyone takes the same photos.

The Museum of Photographic Arts’ assistant curator Chantel Paul sizes up “Punctum,” by Eric William Carroll

JANUARY 2014

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pul s e [arts] (continued from page 33)

LEFT: Matthew Brandt maintains the physicality of the things he photographs.

Adding lake water increases the figurative depth of his work, and the water leaves its mark on the final product.

The image becomes less clear, but the viewer is still “seeing” the lake.

BELOW: Doug Rickard uses images from Google Street View to show a dystopian, dehumanized view of life in modern America.

“American Lake, WA G3” Matthew Brandt, 2011 Chromogenic print soaked in American lake water ©Matthew Brandt, Courtesy of Gilad and Rachel Segal, Los Angeles

I

nstagram says more than 100 million people a month use its photo-sharing service. Image host Flickr counts more than 87 million members uploading several thousand photos each minute.

And perhaps inevitably, Oxford Dictionaries named “selfie” its 2013 word of the year; the word can also now be found in American Heritage Dictionary.

The high-flying technological and social networking revolution has left traditional film photography in the dust. As standup comic Demetri Martin, a frequent face on The Daily Show, puts it, “The digital camera is a great invention because it allows us to reminisce. Instantly.”

Now, everyone’s carrying a camera. We’re capturing more images and sharing more moments than ever before, using cyberspace as our limitless photo album. With images flowing at the speed words, the photography playing field has been leveled.

But what about photography as an art form to be exhibited and archived? At San Diego’s 30-year-old Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) in Balboa (continued on page 36)

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JANUARY 2014

“#82.948842 Detroit, MI. 2009” Doug Rickard, 2011 Archival pigment print Courtesy of the artist and Stephen Wirtz Gallery

“A whole new language has developed in photography.”

—MOPA’s director of exhibitions, Scott Davis

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pul s e [arts]

(continued from page 34)

Park, the new digital reality is making an impact... and being embraced.

“A whole new language has developed in photography,” says MOPA’s director of exhibitions, Scott Davis, adding that the digital revolution has opened “a lot of avenues in the type of material we can or will exhibit. We’ve been able to show artists whose work doesn’t exist in physical form.”

Among these artists is photographer Doug Rickard, a UC San Diego graduate whose work exists exclusively in a digital platform, which can be seen in the current MOPA exhibition “Staking Claim: A California Invitational.”

While most of the museum’s permanent collection has been digitalized for archival purposes, less than 30 percent of its collection was shot digitally, says assistant curator Chantel Paul. But there’s no question about the paradigm shift within photography.

“Science has always been a part of photography,” Paul says. “It’s a technologically based art form.

The technology has allowed people to explore and create images in different ways. How [digital photography] is used is really up to the artist. There are people who have never used a film camera.

“We’re in a really good place, because everyone is taking pictures. People are familiar with the art form. There’s an accessibility to that art form that there might not have been before.”

Here, however, is where Paul sounds a note of caution. “Anyone can take a picture,” she says. “Not everyone can take a photograph.”

The digital transition has simplified the process of capturing an image, which, Paul says, “has created a visual social conversation.” She also recognizes the medium’s current limitations.

“Digital can be cold, and you can’t get a full range of tonality all the time,” she says. Her concern regarding the evolving technology: “Photography that only lives in the digital world is vulnerable to obsolescence.”

What artistic merit, from a curatorial standpoint, Instagram images and photographs circulated via Flickr will have, “I don’t think we know yet,” Paul says.

In any event, as photography has become more democratic, MOPA aims to reflect the evolution of the art form in all its facets.

“We have changed the way that we think about photography,” says Scott Davis. “It’s a different world now.”

“Carroll” Paul Schiek, 2011 Chromogenic print

ABOVE: Paul Schiek removes 1950s mug shots from their contexts, leaving striking images of young men who don’t look criminal.

RIGHT: Susan Burnstine allows the camera to move during long exposures (when the shutter stays open longer than “click”), giving iconic locations like New York and L.A. a dreamlike quality.

“Digital can be cold, and you can’t get a full range of tonality all the time...

Photography that only lives in the digital world is vulnerable to obsolescence.”

—MOPA’s assistant curator Chantel Paul

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JANUARY 2014

“Around the Bend” Susan Burnstine, 2012 Archival pigment print

pul s e [arts]

taking another shot Thanks to local software firm, even mis-shot pictures get a second chance to sparkle

By Megan Meyers

G

iven the emergence of the selfie and the 300 million photos shared on Facebook daily, photoediting apps are proliferating.

Picturing profits, Del Mar’s MacPhun Software, which holds five of the top 10 spots in the Mac App Store’s photography category, is producing photo-editing apps for DSLR pros and shutterbug novices at a fraction of the price of its competitors.

The apps “are really fun and easy to use, and are genuinely useful,” says Kevin La Rue, the company’s V.P. of marketing. “A lot of apps out there are one-trick ponies. But in each of the MacPhun products, we try to solve a specific challenge photographers face.”

MacPhun’s new Intensify app is meant to “bring out saturation and detail to really make your image pop.” It also allows for sharing across social networks with a click.

“As more people start living, breathing and interacting on social media, there’s been a transformation.”

La Rue says. “I’m not sharing as many images as I used to, but the images I do share are much better. There are certainly a lot of people that put up selfies and spur-of-the-moment photos, but I’m more into curating my online identity.”

Digital photos, before and after using MacPhun’s Intensify program

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pul s e [arts]

“ C r e at i v i t y i s k n o w i n g h o w t o h i d e y o u r s o u r c e s ” —Albert Einstein

1/1-2/1: “Minimal”

by Lori Cozen-Geller Madison Gallery 1020 Prospect St. #130, La Jolla 858.459.0836, madisongalleries.com

CLOCKWISE (from below): “Pressure is a Privilege”

by Marcus Kenney; “Soft Chatter” by Lori CozenGeller; “Honeycomb II” by Megan Cotts; “Foxxy” by Sharif Carter; “Autopilot”

by JC Carino.

Lori Cozen-Geller is a SoCal minimalist sculptor whose chic, modern works comprise simple forms. In her installation “Soft Chatter” (pictured), hard-edge cubes signify concrete ideas, while the meandering composition symbolizes thought progression.

ART BEAT

January’s museum and gallery openings B y P a t r i c i a B . Dw y e r

1/4-25: “Repetition Rhythm & Pattern” Space 4 Art 325 15th St., East Village 619.269.7230, sdspace4art.org Local artists put a contemporary spin on the minimalist art movement through their use of rhythm, repetition and pattern in this mixed-media art show.

1/4-5, 9: Art-A-Thon Art Hatch 317 E Grand Ave., Escondido 760.781.5779, arthatch.org More than 20 local artists will paint for 24 consecutive hours to raise money for Art Hatch’s teen arts programs. The public is invited to watch the exhausted artists atwork during the marathon painting session and attend the January 9 reception.

1/11-2/2: New Works by Romali Licudan, Edward Frausto and JC Carino Thumbprint Gallery 920 Kline St., La Jolla 858.354.6294, thumbprintgallerysd.com

1/9-3/8: Marcus Kenney Lux Art Institute 1550 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas 760.436.6611, luxartinstitute.org Marcus Kenney juxtaposes childhood innocence with adult themes including consumerism and religion in his mixed-media paintings. Lux’s in-residence artist for January, the Louisiana painter will host lectures and continue working on new pieces.

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JANUARY 2014

This show features the latest creations by three San Diego graphic artists.

1/11-2/15: “Works on Paper 1968-1973” by Manny Farber Quint Contemporary Art 7547 Girard Ave., La Jolla 858.454.3409, quintgallery.com

© E S T A T E O F M A NN Y F A RB E R

Manny Farber is known for his drawings and fine art.

“Works on Paper” reflects the artist’s brute and calculating application of paint to paper by nearly every imaginable means.

1/11-2/23: “A Moment in Sculpture at SDSU” Art Produce Gallery 3139 University Ave., North Park 619.584.4448 artproduce.org See sculptures created by staff and students of San Diego State University.

1/17-2/15: Yeller Studio Subtext Gallery 2479 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy subtextgallery.com

1/11-2/15: “Hither & Yon” by David Adey Scott White Contemporary Art 7655 Girard Ave. #101, La Jolla 858.255.8574, scottwhiteart.com David Adey was every Point Loma Nazarene art student’s favorite teacher until Scott White Contemporary Art snagged him to be its first-ever fulltime resident artist.

Standouts from Adey’s recent body of work include a collage of fragmented images of flesh gathered from Google-searched photos of models.

To kickoff 2014 on a positive note, local artist collective Yeller Studio presents a body of work billed as having been “summoned from the darkest pits of primordial filth and despair.” Happy New Year!

1/23-27: Human Rights Watch Film Festival Museum of Photographic Arts 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.238.7559, mopa.org Six films from five countries explore human rights around the world during this four-day festival. Themes include the LGBT community, arranged marriages and Mexican emigration.

CLOCKWISE (from above): “Fill My Cup” by David Adey; Manny Farber at work in his UC San Diego campus studio; “Hanging by hair and thread: one straw for every sexual thought I have of you” by Ainsley Buhl Cramer; “Black Magic” by Yeller Studio; a still from the film My Afghanistan.

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P U L SE [ CO M EDY ]

Laughing stock January’s stand-up line-up C o mp i le d b y C a tl i n D o r set

1/9-12 Bill Bellamy “There are good things Black people do.

[Government] knows what we do — they profile us.

They know we will rob you, we will shoot you, we will cut you... but we will never blow you up, ‘Cause you got to be on time to f*** with bombs.”

(BILL BELLAMY on Back to My Roots)

The American Comedy Company americancomedyco.com (continued on page 44)

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P U L SE [ CO M EDY ] (continued from page 42) Robyn Von Swank

“What’s the difference between Courtney Love and the American flag? It would be wrong to urinate on the American flag.”

—Gregg Turkington (aka Neil Hamburger) on Comedy Death Ray 1/2: Neil Hamburger @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com

“I go to therapy now — he’s such an ass, he really is. I told him I had problems keeping it up during sex, and his advice was to look my girl right in the eyes while we’re having sex. That’s great; how am I going to think of other chicks when I’m staring right at her?”

—Robert Kelly on Comedy Central Presents: Robert Kelly 1/2-5: Robert Kelly @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com

By r o n Nga l o n ga l ay

“Every time I tell people I’m Filipino, the first thing they say?

‘Oh, Filipinos eat dogs.’ Okay look, I only have one thing to say about that: It’s not bad.”

—Edwin San Juan on Gabriel Iglesias Presents Stand-Up Revolution 1/9: Edwin San Juan @ Mad House Comedy Club, madhousecomedyclub.com

“I love me a whigger; you know, that’s my favorite thing. Oh, the Biebs is very thug. I don’t know if you know this, but he’s very thug. And if there’s one thing I will always be amused by, it is a rich, white, suburban kid who thinks he’s black.”

—Kathy Griffin on Calm Down Gurrl 1/11: Kathy Griffin @ Pala Casino, palacasino.com

“I went to an ATM today. Why would a homeless guy peddle for cash at the ATM? We’re at the ATM ‘cause we don’t have any cash, and you’re not getting a $20, bitch, I’ll tell you that right now.”

—John Caparulo on Comedy Central: Premium Blend 1/16-18: John Caparulo @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com

“Do you still want to be having sex when you’re 75? Who are you gonna be having sex with? Other 75-year-old people! When in your life have you ever seen someone 80 years old saying, ‘Oh, yeah, the way she’s sucking her peas up through a straw is making me hard as rock.’”

—Doug Stanhope on Comedy Central Presents: Doug Stanhope 1/22: Doug Stanhope @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com 1/23: Doug Stanhope @ The Comedy Store, La Jolla, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

“You could be the ugliest Black guy in California… you shave your head, and every woman’s like, ‘Mm-hmm.’ Ever see a white guy shave his head? Everybody’s like, ‘Leukemia?’ Black guy’s gettin’ laid, and I’m gettin’ chemotherapy. It’s not fair.”

—Greg Fitzsimmons on Comedy Central Presents: Greg Fitzsimmons 1/23-25: Greg Fitzsimmons @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com

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WHAT A JOKE Local comic wins big at international competition b y C a tl i n D o r set

From more than 1,000 submissions from across the world, only 33 comedians were selected to prove their wit at the 34th Annual Seattle International Comedy Competition in November. When the grueling, 18venue, 26-day laugh-fest concluded December 1, one comic was left standing: 26-year-old Pacific Beach resident Zoltan Kaszas.

“Being a comedian, you sometimes find yourself in grimy hotels doing rough shows, and you question if you’re doing the right thing and heading in the right direction,” Kaszas says. “Winning the contest was an affirmation that I’m doing alright and that I’m on the right path.”

Find out if Kaszas is indeed the world’s funniest comedian at one of his upcoming performances in San Diego: 1/3: Spacebar Internet Cafe, La Mesa 1/8: Porter’s Pub, UCSD campus 1/16: Harrah’s Rincon Hotel & Casino, Valley Center 1/22: The BeachWood, Pacific Beach 1/25: Twiggz Coffee House, University Heights Find more event listings at zoltancomedy.com.

“I’ll teach your kids about gay marriage; It won’t even be hard. it’ll take me like five minutes. Just give me like two pickles and some glitter, and I’ll f***ing knock it out. I’ll teach ‘em about lesbians, too. Just give me like a couple clams and some flannel — I’ll THROW it all in a Toyota Prius. Class dismissed.”

P R I Z E

G I V E AWAY S

A N D

D R I N K

S P E C I A L S

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D AY

Get in the Game When your team scores, you win!

Watch the Conference Championships and experience real pro football action at Tilted Kilt

PacificSD is paying for your drinks (through 1st Quarter of Game 1)

Sunday, January 19 Official game/event time TBD.

Get on the list (required for hosted bar) and find more info at

pacificsandiego.com/getinthegame

San Diego

M

310 10th Ave., East Village, (619) 814-5458, tiltedkilt.com please drink responsibly

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pul s e [ c o o lt u r e ]

Think Outside the Box Office January’s motion picture preview B y Jess i c a L a F o n t a i n e

Director: Patrick Creadon In theaters January 10 This documentary follows two designers who work with local high school students to reinvent a community and the lives of its citizens.

Lutz) back to Ancient Greece, where he must flee to follow his love or stay to fight tyranny (he fights).

Lone Survivor “Live to tell the story.”

Action/Drama/Thriller Director: Peter Berg In theaters January 10 Mark Wahlberg is a Navy SEAL on a mission to take out a Taliban leader; based on the true story of 2005’s Operation Red Wings.

Also starring Ben Foster, Emile Hirsch and Eric Bana. (See sidebar.)

Open Grave “The moment you wake up, the nightmare begins.”

Horror/Mystery/Thriller Director: Gonzalo LópezGallego In theaters January 3 Waking up with no memory in a pit of dead bodies, a man searches for answers, including whether or not he is the murderer. Starring Sharlto Copley, Joseph Morgan and Thomas Kretschmann.

The Adventurer: The Curse of the Midas Box

Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones Horror/Thriller Director: Christopher Landon In theaters January 3 The fifth installment of this horror franchise creeps around in Catholic-based paranormal mythology.

If You Build It “Two teachers. Ten students.

One epic homework assignment.”

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“The new name for adventure.”

Adventure/Family/Fantasy Director: Jonathan Newman In theaters January 10 When 17-year-old Mariah Mundi ventures into a supernatural world to unravel a curse, his parents disappear and his brother is kidnapped. Starring Michael Sheen, Lena Headey and Sam Neill.

The Legend of Hercules “Every man has a destiny.”

Action/Adventure Director: Renny Harlin In theaters January 10 Travel with Hercules (Twilight heartthrob Kellan

JANUARY 2014

The Truth About Emanuel “Two lives. Two voids. One secret.”

Drama/Thriller Director: Francesca Gregorini In theaters January 10 A troubled girl becomes fascinated with her new neighbor, who looks an awful lot like her deceased mother. Starring Kaya Scodelario and Jessica Biel.

Devil’s Due “Fear is born.”

Horror Director: Matt BettinelliOlpin, Tyler Gillett In theaters January 17 This modern twist on the 1968 film Rosemary’s Baby follows two honeymooners through a pregnancy that reveals signs of evil growing inside.

Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit “Intelligence is a weapon.”

Action/Drama/Thriller Director: Kenneth Branagh In theaters January 17 Chris Pine and Keira Knightley play a couple struggling to survive while Jack (Pine), a CIA analystturned-spy, unravels a Russian terrorist plot to topple the U.S. economy.

Maidentrip Documentary/Adventure Director: Jillian Schlesinger In theaters January 17 A 14-year-old Dutch girl (Laura Dekker) tries to become the youngest person to complete a solo trip around the world in a sailboat.

Ride Along “Propose to this cop’s sister?

Rookie mistake.”

Action/Comedy Director: Tim Story In theaters January 17 High school security guard Ben (Kevin Hart) joins a hotshot undercover detective (Ice Cube) for an overnight shift, only to get caught up in a big case while trying to impress the cop — who’s also his girlfriend’s badass brother.

The Nut Job “No nuts, no glory.”

Animation/Adventure/Comedy Director: Peter Lepeniotis In theaters January 17 Will Arnett is the voice of Surly the Squirrel in this animated adventure that involves robbing the local nut shop to survive winter in the city. Other celeb voiceovers include Katherine Heigl, Brendan Fraser, Liam Neeson and more.

Director: Stuart Beattie In theaters January 24 Frankenstein’s creature gets tangled up in an ancient war still being fought by two immortal clans.

Starring Aaron Eckhart, Bill Nighy and Miranda Otto.

Enemies Closer “Keep your friends close.”

Mystery/Action/Adventure Director: Peter Hyams In theatres January 24 Former Navy SEAL Henry (Tom Everett Scott) must work closely with a mortal enemy to survive a ruthless gang of drug-runners lead

by Xander ( Jean-Claude Van Damme).

SEALing the Deal Local eyewear brand seen on the big screen B y Jess i c a L a F o n t a i n e

In Lone Survivor, out January 10, Mark Wahlberg’s character sports the same sunglasses the real Navy SEAL he portrays in the film wore during a mission to neutralize a Taliban leader along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in 2005.

Cut from T-6 7075 Billet Aircraft Aluminum, the unofficial sunglasses of the Navy SEALs are stronger than steel and lighter than plastic. They’re durable, have highfunctioning lenses and are manufactured by San Diego company Gatorz Eyewear, which formed in the late-’80s as an extreme sports brand.

“When we got the call, we didn’t even know they were filming the movie,” says Daniel Fefferman, brand manager for Carlsbad-based Gatorz. “It was really exciting for us as a company.”

The film is based on the true story of fire team leader Marcus Luttrell, the sole survivor of a team of Navy SEALs, who was on the movie set to insure its authenticity.

He insisted Mark Wahlberg, Ben Foster and other actors wear Gatorz glasses, just as he and his team had during Operation Red Wings.

The Magnum Black Frame ($139) and Radiator Black Frame ($139) worn in the movie can be found at gatorz. com and at Sunglass & Optical Warehouse stores around San Diego (sunglassoptical.com).

Gimme Shelter “Sometimes you have to leave home to find your family.”

Drama Director: Ronald Krauss In theaters January 24 Vanessa Hudgens plays a pregnant teenager forced into life on the streets while searching for her biological father. Based on a true story. Featuring James Earl Jones, Rosario Dawson and Brendan Fraser.

I, Frankenstein “200 years later, he’s still alive.”

Action/Fantasy/Sci-Fi

That Awkward Moment “When you realize getting some means wanting more.”

Comedy/Romance Director: Tom Gormican In theaters January 31 Three friends (one of whom is Zac Efron) in a committed bromance vow to stay single, while two of them struggle to keep new romances secret from the others.

“When we got the call, we didn’t even know they were filming the movie” —Daniel Fefferman

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[style]

Marc Jacobs, $98 Bloomingdale’s

Azzaria, $39 Azzaria Boutique and Denim Lounge

Adrienne Landau, $295 Bloomingdale’s Fashion Valley

Ralph Lauren, $98 Bloomingdale’s

Azzaria, $39 Azzaria Boutique and Denim Lounge

Scarving for Attention Neckwear for making heads turn

P h o t o s b y P a u l B o d y / S t y le d b y A n d r e a R o ss

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Surell, $200 Bloomingdale’s

F

or stylish San Diego women and men, wearing a scarf means being part of warming trend in more ways than one. So look sharp and bundle up — it’s bound to dip below 50 degrees before the next Santa Anas blow through.

Burberry Brogue Haymarket, $450 Bloomingdale’s Fashion Valley

Stylist’s own

What’s Not To Love, $158 What’s Not To Love Designs Burberry, $395 Bloomingdale’s

Gerard Darel, $99 Bloomingdale’s

Shot on location at: Hold It Contemporary Home Southern California’s source for modern and contemporary home furniture 1570 Camino De La Reina, Mission Valley 619.295.6660, holdithome.com

Echo Design, $42 Bloomingdale’s

(for her)

Featured backdrop by Stikwood, adhesive-backed real-wood paneling that gives any urban dwelling a reclaimed-wood look in minutes. $8-12/sq. ft. stikwood.com

(continued on page 50)

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(continued from page 49)

Marc by Marc Jacobs, $148 Bloomingdale’s

Lily and Lionel, $150 Bloomingdale’s Fashion Valley

John Varvatos, $450 Bloomingdale’s Bloomingdale’s, $50 Bloomingdale’s

(for him) 50

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Azzaria, $39 Azzaria Boutique and Denim Lounge

The Kooples, $110 Bloomingdale’s

Lily and Lionel, $125 Bloomingdale’s

John Varvatos, $228 Bloomingdale’s Burberry, $395 Bloomingdale’s

John Varvatos, $125 Bloomingdale’s

A unique dining experience awaits you.

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SEEN

DIEGO

2013 photo contest winners They shoot, we score.

This look at almost everyday life in San Diego is made possible by the local photographers who submitted their work to PacificSD’s SEEN DIEGO photo contest.

Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to all entrants for sharing your perspectives on a city so pretty and fine.

“Cruiser & Co.” Oceanside Pier, 2012 Photo by Chris Cruz S e c o n d P l ac e

It’s a Win-Win-Win Contest results and booties First Place; $1,000: “Pacific Beach from the Clouds”

by Kara Watkins (on the cover) Second Place; $500: “Cruiser & Co.”

by Chris Cruz (this page) Third Place; $250: “Salton Sea Pilings”

by Bradley Schweit (see page 16)

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“Kayaking on Mirror Bay” Mission Bay, 2013 / Photo by Tim King

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“Anticipation” / Belmont Park, 2013 / Photo by Tyler Jordan

“In Motion” / East Village, 2013 Photo by Scott Murphy

“Scripps Pier” / La Jolla, 2012 Photo by Leetal Elmaleh

“Electric Oasis” / Little Italy, 2012 Photo by Mike Newton

“Speed of Light” / Downtown, 2013 Photo by Larry Gamboa JANUARY 2014

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“Salk Autumnal Equinox Sunset” La Jolla, 2013 Photo by Evgeny Yorobe

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“Vantage Point” / Gaslamp, 2011 / Photo by Ashi Fachler 58

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“Grain Tower” Downtown, 2010 Photo by Paul Body JANUARY 2014

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Spinning ignited steel wool, Horseshoe Beach, La Jolla.

u n - S C E N E

Shedding light on underexposed corners of the urban landscape

By D av i d L . C o d d o n

Michael Jaffe photographs parts of the city most locals miss.

“I like to create an image where you have no idea you’re in San Diego,” he says.

Since moving west from New York City three years ago, Jaffe, 28, has discovered the region’s photographic possibilities. In the Big Apple, he managed (and still does) online tourism guide empireguides.com.

In America’s Finest, he has shot from the border to the far reaches of East and North Counties and everywhere in between.

Although multiple exposures are part and parcel of his technique, Jaffe doesn’t rely on Photoshop or gimmickry.

“I want to capture the true beauty of things,” he says. “It’s almost half painting, half photography.”

Michael Jaffe, self-portrait

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The Wullenweber Radio “Elephant Cage,” Imperial Beach.

Proctor Valley dam at the southern end of Upper Otay Lake, Chula Vista.

Member of the New Roots Community Farm on 54th Street, City Heights.

Logan Heights and Barrio Logan, with Tijuana in the background.

T A STE [ DINING OUT]

T I N A RUPP

’lette macarons in University City.

SEASONINGS GREETINGS Say hello to a spicy selection of new restaurants the city’s tastemakers are cooking up

D

B y F r a n k S a b at i n i , J r .

on’t stick a fork in the San Diego dining scene — it’s nowhere near done. The expanding metropolis’ growing appetite for construction has yet to be satisfied. Here are (continued on page 72) 23 new places to prove it.

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(continued from page 71)

La Femme de Violette cocktail at Encore Champagne Bar & Dining Room.

French Concession

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters

(Now open) Restaurateur Alex Thao has re-branded his former Celadon Thai restaurant to reflect the authentic dim sum of Shanghai when French settlers pervaded through the first half of the 20th Century. Thao recruited veteran chef Andrew Kwong of Hong Kong to execute such classics as steamed egg custard buns, shrimp mousse and turnip cakes. The menu also includes traditional Chinese standbys and craft beers of local and Asian origins.

3671 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest 619.297.8424, frenchconcessionsd.com

(Now open) Whether you’ve tipped the scale on your beer intake or need a shot of warmth during evening Padres’ games, this lauded roaster from Bird Rock delivers the remedies with its new pour-over coffee bar inside Petco Park. The outlet features espresso drinks and coffees made with seasonally sourced beans.

100 Park Blvd., Downtown 858.551.1707 (phone for Bird Rock location), birdrockcoffeeroasters.com

Encore Champagne Bar & Dining Room (Opening in January) New York and Paris has them, and now San Diego will bubble with the arrival of a champagne-centric dining haunt in the Gaslamp’s historic Hill Building.

Overseeing the concept is Ken Irvine, owner and chef of Bleu Bohème in Kensington. Also on board is executive chef Ryan Studebaker, who previously worked at Solace and the Moonlight Lounge in Encinitas.

545 F St., Gaslamp 619.752.0081, no website yet

Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar (Opening in January) An incarnation of Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar (closing Dec. 31 in the Gaslamp) will open its doors in Bankers Hill in time for San Diego Restaurant Week ( Jan. 19-24). The new venture promises several popular dishes carried over from Croce’s downtown, with the addition of tapas. Live music will remain to the tune of an intimate floor plan featuring diverse seating areas and a covered patio.

2760 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill 619.233.4355, crocesparkwest.com

Ironside Oyster (Opening in January) The ever-growing portfolio of local restaurants by CH Projects will soon include a hangout inspired by the original fishing community of Little Italy. In addition to copious seafood dishes constructed by executive chef Jason McLeod, look for an extensive raw bar, rumcentric cocktails and an in-house bakery.

1654 India St., Little Italy no phone number yet, ch-projects.com

Harbor Café

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(Opening in January) Co-owner Robin Brisebois says Harbor Café is going into one of Little Italy’s oldest buildings, which used to house a bordello back in its day. He’s launching the ground-level cafe with fellow architect Ted Smith, who is designing an indoor lunch counter and sidewalk patio for breakfast and midday meals.

1502 India St., Little Italy no phone number or website yet (continued on page 74)

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ABOVE: Forty-five-day dry-aged Aspen Ridge beef loin with root vegetables and mushrooms.

LEFT: Verlasso Salmon with fried oysters and textures of celery.

BELOW: Peanut butter and chocolate layer bar with grape jelly ice cream.

LA VALENCIA 1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla 858.454.0771 lavalencia.com

Café la Rue 858.551.3761 cafelaruelav.com

THE MED

at La Valencia Hotel 858.551.3765 Lavalencia.com/dining/themed

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afe la Rue’s long-anticipated return has been set for the end of the year.

The reopening of the approachable, local and delicious Café la Rue — which previously lavished patrons in the same spot during the mid-20th Century— represents the first new restaurant concept from La Valencia in nearly 50 years. The café originally debuted in La Jolla on Prospect Street in 1947.

The intent of the new la Rue is to delight and surprise guests with both the space and the menu and to connect La Valencia to the Village of La Jolla as a social gathering place. The restaurant and bar will honor the legacy of the hotel, while appealing to the tastes of today’s travelers and local clientele. Chef Daniel Barron’s French-leaning menu combines modern European cuisine with classics like duck confit and Croque Madames.

A

t THE MED, New American cuisine takes prized inspiration from the melting pot of our country’s culture and diversity. Executive Chef Daniel Barron uses unparalleled skill and technique to prepare the abundant bounty found in local organic and sustainable farms, fisheries and ranches. All courses and indulgent dishes are enhanced by La V’s sommelier suggestions and renowned wine collection.

THE MED is the ideal setting for a leisurely breakfast, lunch, brunch or dinner.

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The Pizza Studio (Opening in January) The motto at this fast-growing chain out of Los Angeles is: “You create it, we make it.”

Imaginations can run wild, given the wide choice of crusts, sauces and toppings. But it doesn’t end there, as customers make final decisions as to what type of spice they want sprinkled onto their masterpieces. Look for a second San Diego location in Kearny Mesa in spring.

119 Broadway, Downtown no phone number yet, pizzastudio.com

’lette macarons (Opening in January) Considered the first all-macaron (or macaroon) bakery in the U.S. when it opened a few years ago in Beverly Hills, this shop makes its San Diego debut in Westfield UTC mall. Its famous helium-light European cookies reveal fruit, chocolate, coconut, rose and a host of other ingredients that spur the consumption of baker’s dozens.

4545 La Jolla Village Dr., University City no phone number yet, lettemacarons.com

The Flight Path (Opening in January) Wines you wish would be served in-flight will soon be in the offing a few hundred feet below the bellies of incoming airplanes at the McClintock Warehouse building downtown. Owner Tammy Hoops, a former wine sales rep, plans on launching the wine bar with nearly 100 different labels and a variety of savory small plates. Look for modern Italian-made furniture and airport-themed appointments set against a stark-white backdrop.

1202 Kettner Blvd., Downtown no phone number yet, theflightpathsd.com

Werewolf (Opening in January/February) Chad Cline of Harbor Town Pub in Point Loma and The Waterfront Bar & Grill in Little Italy is taking over the former Gaijin Noodle + Sake House, bringing a “comfy, laid-back pub” to the space. Cline says the name, Werewolf, reflects how bar hoppers “act at night compared to the civility they show during the day.” His new joint will cater to both types with a full bar, 32 beer handles and a menu of salads, burgers and entrees.

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Chilly Ribbons (Three locations opening January/February) A triple dose of shaved snow, extruded into bowls so fast that it resembles frozen cotton candy, is arriving to Hillcrest, Mission Valley and Mira Mesa via Orlando-based franchise Chilly Ribbons. Inspired by the “snow” served at Taiwan’s popular night markets, the product is available in dozens of flavors and will be served from cutesy angled-roof structures resembling ski lodges capped in faux snow.

Storefronts: 142 University Ave., Hillcrest; 9440-C Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa Kiosk: Westfield Mission Valley mall no phone numbers yet, chillyribbons.com

Juniper & Ivy (Opening in February) Atlanta restaurateur and celebrity chef Richard Blais lands in San Diego with a repertoire of modern, audacious cooking that will likely show off his penchant for molecular cuisine. Blais was the 2010 winner of Bravo’s Top Chef: All-Stars and host of The Science Channel’s Blais Off, which spotlighted his scientific kitchen skills. For his Little Italy venture, set in a refurbished 90-year-old structure, he teamed up with Juniper Hospitality, which is kicking-in a nearby parking lot for the restaurant.

2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy no phone number yet, (continued on page 76) juniperandivy.com

Toppings bar at Pizza Studio.

Juniper & Ivy chef Richard Blais.

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Starlite

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reakfast might be the most important meal of the day during the week, but when the weekend comes around, nothing beats Sunday brunch. Starlite, known for being an after-dark hotspot, is making a name for itself with its equally enticing farmto-table brunch offerings. A hexagon-shaped entrance leads the way to a chic, stylish spot where your eyes will be immediately drawn to the twinkling lights of the impressive chandelier hanging above the bar. Sweet and savory both have a place here, from Niles’ Belgian Waffle to the Starlite Breakfast Burger, a favorite with Starlite’s morning crowd.

And it wouldn’t be a trip to Starlite without one of their creatively concocted cocktails (it’s still the weekend, right?). So try a citrusy Pamplemousse (prosecco, grapefruit juice, Barenjager, orange bitters) or a Holly Golightly (Starlite’s breakfast spin on a classic Manhattan) for an even better start to your day.

Starlite Eggs Benedict: Two poached eggs, Neuske’s ham and herbed hollandaise sauce over an English muffin.

3175 India St., Mission Hills 619.358.9766 starlitesandiego.com

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STAKE owner David Spatafore.

Old Harbor Distilling Company (Opening February/March) A tasting room specializing in gins, rums, whiskeys and coffee liqueur is being launched by Michael Skubic, formerly the “jack of all trades” at Hess Brewing. The project moves into a 7,500-squarefoot storage warehouse that will be used mostly for distilling the spirits, some of them spiked with locally grown botanicals. Weekend tours will also be offered. Skubic says his tasting room will greet with a turn-of-the-century feel and that visitors will be allowed up to six quarter-ounce samples per visit.

“That’s the legal limit,” he adds.

270 17th St., East Village no phone number yet, oldharbordistilling.com

STAKE (Opening in March) Blue Bridge Hospitality is gutting the former Ristorante La Terrazza to make way for a contemporary steakhouse meant to lure carnivores into Coronado. It’s the company’s first venture in upscale dining since rooting itself on the island with Leroy’s Kitchen + Lounge, Moo Time Creamery, Village Pizzeria and Lil’ Piggy’s Bar-B-Q. 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado no phone number yet, nadolife.com

Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria

Trentino pizza from Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria.

(Opening second location in March/April) The East Coast natives who started Amici’s in the Bay Area are helping to end the incessant whining by fellow Southern Cal transplants about the “flaws” of West Coast pizza. Based on their success in La Jolla, they’re opening a second kitchen in the heart of Hillcrest, complete with a scorching brick oven that cooks the pie

crusts to a crispier, darker finish than most.

3958 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest 858.729.9988, amicis.com

The Patio on Goldfinch (Opening in March/April) An exhibition kitchen and “cheese cave” are among the lures to expect at this patio-focused restaurant in Mission Hills, launched by Gina Champion-Cain of The Patio on Lamont Street in Pacific Beach. With a strong emphasis on seafood, the restaurant will occupy a formerly vacant building, giving it new life with copious florals, big glass doors and sustainable design materials.

4020 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills no phone number yet, thepatiosd.com

Tacos Perla (Opening March/April) A colorful indoor/outdoor taco shop evoking a Mexican street vibe from the late 1960s will roll into The North Parker, a mixed-development project currently under construction at 30th and Upas Streets.

The eatery was conceived by the L.W.P. Group, which also owns The Pearl in Point Loma. Its chef, Jaison Burke, will oversee a menu of authentic street tacos featuring rotisserie meats as well as whimsical versions driven by seasonal ingredients.

3000 Upas St., North Park no phone number or website yet

Union Kitchen + Tap (Opening March/April) Eric Leitstein of OMG Restaurant Group (OMG for Leitstein’s children, Olivia, Mason and Gavin) is taking over the lease at Donovan’s Prime Seafood in the Gaslamp. The 7,500-square-foot space will become the second location of Encinitas hotspot Union Kitchen + Tap, serving locally raised beef and craft beers. Ready to rock the joint with an entertainment license, Leitstein is exploring various concepts that include live music.

Construction begins in January.

333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp no phone number yet, localunion101.com (website for Encinitas location) (continued on page 78)

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Underbelly II

(continued from page 76)

(Opening in April) CH Projects extends its ramen craze to a second location (this one in the North Parker Lofts) with the same bowls of goodness we’ve come to know at Underbelly in Little Italy. The North Park digs will also feature a yakitori grill and additional seating.

3000 Upas St., North Park no phone no. yet, ch-projects.com

El Vaquero (Opening in May/June) Chuck Ross of Old Town Family Hospitality Corporation is adding a fourth restaurant to his Fiesta de Reyes portfolio, which includes Cosmopolitan, Barra Barra and Casa de Reyes. El Vaquero, which translates to “the cowboy,” will replace El Fandango with aromatic clouds originating from meats smoked over apple wood. A team of chefs specializing in Mexican barbecue is in place along with a “famous barbecue guy” that Ross is keeping secret for now.

2734 Calhoun St., Old Town no phone number yet, fiestadereyes.com

Carnitas Snack Shack (Second location due by June) The time is ripe for Hanis Cavin and Sara Stroud to expand their wildly popular swine-based walkup beyond North Park. The couple promises a second location with an identical menu before summer, possibly in Mira Mesa, Del Mar or Downtown. “We have architects and designers working on plans, but no lease has been set in stone yet,” says Cavin, adding that a third location will inevitably follow.

2632 University Ave., North Park (original location) 619.294.7675, carnitassnackshack.com

Green Flash Brewing Company Restaurant

ABOVE: Shrimp gyoza from Underbelly II. RIGHT: Barbecue chicken pizza from URBN.

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URBN El Cajon (Opening in April) A taste of Connecticut is coming to East County when restaurateur Jon Mangini of URBN Restaurants, Inc. brings his coal-fired sheet pizzas to the former El Cajon Brewing Company. With the space already paved for beer-making, the project conveniently includes the debut of URBN St. Brewing Company while giving way to Mangini’s penchant for rawindustrial design. The suds will compliment New Haven-style pies boasting various toppings like fresh clams, mashed potatoes and eggplant. Appetizers and salads found at URBN in North Park and BASIC in East Village will also be in the offing.

110 N. Magnolia Ave., El Cajon no phone number yet, urbn-restaurants.com JANUARY 2014

(Opening in October/November) The brewing company famous for its innovative, hybrid beers is branching out from its glassy industrial-park digs in Mira Mesa with a restaurant and tasting room located either close to San Diego’s urban core or inside of it. The company is still shopping properties, but it plans on going full guns with crafty fare that compels you to drink the suds.

Headquarters: 6550 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa 858.622.0085, greenflashbrew.com

FRESH

Farm-fresh salad bar, fresh soups & hot pastas, freshly-baked muffins & focaccia breads, and more!

DEL MAR/CARMEL VALLEY 0IAZZA #ARMEL #ENTER s 6ALLEY #ENTRE $RIVE

www.souplantation.com

Pacific Magazine_August 2013 - Souplantation/Del Mar

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HONOR ROLL

San Diego sushi chef competes on Japanese reality show B y F r a n k S a b at i n i , J r .

T

hanks to a gig he landed at a Japanese restaurant owned by one of his college professors, Jerry Warner found himself more intrigued by cutting fish than by earning a degree in Fitness Management at Humboldt State University.

Warner eventually became executive chef at Café Japengo in La Jolla and was recently a contender on “World Challenge – Pride of Japan,” a Japanese reality TV show in which a top Japanese chef faces off against a chef from another country. The show’s previous sushi match-up featured a chef from Spain. This time, the producers tapped the U.S. for a competitor specializing in contemporary sushi.

“If you ask for a rainbow roll in Japan, you probably won’t get it, because they stay true to tradition,” Warner says. “During the show, I think the judges had an appreciation for the ingredients I was using, which broadened their perspective of sushi.”

Warner — who’s been creating rolls that have playfully incorporated micro greens, chili sauces and tropical fruits since he began working at Japengo in 1990 — says he suspects the producers found him on Google.

On the show, each chef was challenged to construct a sashimi plate, assorted nigiri and three sushi rolls under the direction of language interpreters. While the Japanese chef adhered to convention, Warner bestowed things like baby cilantro and fresh mango to his masterpieces before pushing the envelope further with a dessert roll comprising various fruits.

The champion remains a signed, sworn secret until the episode airs the second week in January on Japan’s Asahi network. But visitors to Café Japengo inquiring about the outcome shouldn’t look for a trophy or wads of cash spilling out of Warner’s pocket even if he does win.

“There’s no prize for the winner, just bragging rights,” he says.

If a salary raise isn’t in order, at least a raising of the sake cups is. Kampai!

8960 University Center Lane, University City 858.450.3355, cafejapengo.com

Café Japengo’s executive chef Jerry Warner.

“If you ask for a rainbow roll in Japan, you probably won’t get it, because they stay true to tradition.”

raw data Café Japengo facts and figures •Café Japengo opened in La Jolla in 1990.

•Chef Jerry Warner has been with the restaurant since its launch.

•Japengo was named “Best Sushi in San Diego” at the California Restaurant Association’s Gold Medallion Awards in June 2013.

•Chef Warner runs off-menu secret specials.

Caption forfor honor rollinfo. to go here.

Whisper to the server more

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Warner (second from left) during filming of World Challenge — Pride of Japan.

Summer Roll from Café Japengo.

Winter find more Fabulousness at

[ pa c i f i c s d

promotion]

in Fabulous Hillcrest

FabulousHillcrest.com

D BAR RESTAURANT The “D” in D Bar stands for Drinks, Dining and Dessert. Chef/owner and Food Network star Keegan Gerhard invites you to dine with him and enjoy his culinary sanctuary, right in the heart of colorful Hillcrest. Check out our website for info on menus, happy hour, brunch and more.

3930 Fifth Ave., 619.299.3227 dbarsandiego.com

HILLCREST NEWSSTAND The best selection of rare international and domestic magazines, journals and foreignlanguage publications. Categories include: film, fashion, art and design, sports and fitness, travel, leisure and more. You’ll also find souvenirs, sundries, snacks, beverages and lottery tickets.

529 University Ave., 619.260.0492 Additional location at 4525 La Jolla Village Dr., D-31 858.535.8002

Designer Style Sunglasses We carry more than 250 styles of sunglasses for men and women.

Get the latest styles and fashions at a fraction of the cost of namebrand sunglasses. Stop by and let our friendly staff help you pick out the perfect shades for all occasions.

3870 Fifth Ave., 619.255.1547 and 4919 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.677.2222 LOTUS THAI, Since 1999 For sophisticated, authentic Thai cuisine paired with extensive wine and beer lists and an invigorating menu of Soju cocktails, experience the best of the Far East, right here on the West Coast… only at Lotus Thai.

3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272 lotusthaisd.com, facebook.com/LotusThaiSD (additional location at 906 Market St., East Village, 619.595.0115)

Martinis Above Fourth | Table + Stage Stay warm this winter, sipping over 100 award-winning specialty martinis in a hip, eclectic, supper club setting.

Enjoy dining and live entertainment nightly with Happy Hour Mon. through Sat. from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

3940 Fourth Ave., 2nd Floor 619.400.4500, martinisabovefourth.com Adam & Eve Adam & Eve carries a wide range of products including lingerie and apparel, menswear, pleasure products, instructional videos and books and much more. Adam & Eve is a welcoming boutique, allowing customers to shop and explore in a fun and friendly environment.

415 University Ave. 619.291.6969 adamevesandiego.com

Uptown Tavern Like the neighborhood it’s proud to be a part of, there’s always something for everyone at Uptown Tavern. This casually hip bar and eatery invites guests to eat, drink and socialize in comfort and style, seven days a week.

1236 University Ave. 619.241.2710 uptowntavernsd.com

Hillcrest Farmers Market San Diego’s favorite farmers market has more than 175 vendors each week, with the freshest seasonal produce, a delicious food court, dozens of hand made artistry and crafts, unique retail displays and more. Now, you can park for FREE off Campus Ave. and take the FREE trolley to the heart of the market.

Every Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

University Ave. & Normal St. hillcrestfarmersmarket.com

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y eacs ipe:

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roellow me! f

Gnocch-Gnocch Joke BUT, seriously, you can really do this Rec i pe a n d ph o t o s b y B r a n d o n M a t z ek (continued on page 84)

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[ pa c i f i c s d

promotion]

Papa Luna’s empanadas

F

1404 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.255.8875 papalunas.com facebook.com/PapaLunas [ pa c i f i c s d

[ pa c i f i c s d

Papa Luna’s Empanadas is known for amazing salads made from locally sourced produce delivered fresh daily.

resh and filling, Papa Luna’s unique empanadas are filled with the freshest ingredients and local produce before being hand-folded and baked to flaky perfection. Stop in to enjoy more than 20 flavors of savory, veggie or dessert empanadas — from traditional Argentine-style fillings to Pacific Beach favorites including the Turkey Dinner or Blackened Ahi empanada. Papa Luna’s, one of the brightest spots on the beach-area dining scene.

promotion]

KNOTTY BARREL

W

hen East Village residents in the know are hungry for a hearty meal and starving for a great night out, they walk over to Knotty Barrel Gastropub, winner of the 2011 and 2012 A*List award for Best New American restaurant. Knotty Barrel is an understated locals’ joint serving up craft-beer-friendly fare that’s pure Americana, with subtle and savory twists on the classics. This is where potatoes are reborn as Parmesan and herb truffle fries, Angus beef is carved into juicy medallions topped with béarnaise and bleu cheese, burgers are available in beef or bison — and everything tastes better when paired with any of the more than 100 beers available at the full bar. For a big breakfast on the sunlit patio, lunch away from the fray or a wholesome dinner that makes everything feel okay, drop into Knotty Barrel today.

Knotty Nachos: Housemade potato chips, buffalo chicken, English cheddar, Stilton bleu cheese, pickled jalapeños and horseradish cream.

844 Market St., East Village 619.269.7156 knottybarrel.com facebook.com/knottybarrel

promotion]

The Field Irish Pub & restaurant

W

hen it comes to the authentic Irish Pub experience, it doesn’t get any better than this. The Field Irish Pub & Restaurant actually imported everything from Ireland, including the floors, beams and mind-boggling amount of décor. And the food and drinks are splendid! Enjoy fish and chips, Boxties, Shepherd’s Pie and so much more.

Boxty: A homemade potato pancake cooked on a griddle. The word is derived from the Gaelic word bactasi, which refers to a tradition of cooking potatoes over an open fire.

544 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.9840 thefield.com facebook.com/fieldirishpub

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“ I LOVE GNOCCHI . TO M E , THEY ’ RE SORT OF M AGIC . THEY HAVE THAT SO U L - SATISFYING P OTATOEY , FLO U RY Q U ALITY , AND WITH A SA U CE THEY ARE J U ST WONDERF U L . ”

[ WHAT ’ S COOKING ]

— J A M ES BEARD

(continued from page 82)

G

nocchi (potato dumplings) topped with melted butter was a favorite meal of mine when I was a child. I loved the light, tender texture. Many years later, my big-boy palate desires a version of this dish with a bit more intrigue. In this recipe for Rustic Gnocchi with Sage Brown Butter Sauce, homemade potato gnocchi are tossed in a rich sauce made with nutty brown butter, frizzled sage leaves, fiery red pepper flake and thin shavings of salty Parmesan cheese. The pillow-like Italian pasta can be enjoyed as a main course or as a warm-up for the entrée.

The ingredient list below may make the recipe seem easy, but mastering the art of gnocchi-making requires practice and patience. The key is using as little flour as possible to hold the dough together.

Adding too much weighs down the gnocchi and makes them tough. Also, make sure not to overwork the dough, lest it become starchy, and, once again, tough. Luckily, the ingredients are inexpensive — if you mess up, scrap the batch and try again.

Rustic Gnocchi with Sage Brown Butter Sauce Ingredients For the gnocchi:

y eacs ipe: re

!

me 1.5 lbs. russet potatoes (about 2) follow Kosher salt 1/2 to 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more as needed 1 egg

For the sage brown butter sauce:

4 tbsp. butter 15 – 20 fresh sage leaves (depending on size) Red pepper flakes Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved Special equipment: ricer

Process

Roast and rice. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Prick potatoes all over with a fork. Pour small mound of kosher salt in middle of rimmed baking sheet, then nestle potatoes on top of salt. Bake potatoes until tender (45 minutes to 1 hour). While potatoes are still hot, carefully remove skins. They should come off easily; use a paring knife if stubborn bits remain. Chop peeled potatoes (still warm) into large chunks, and press through a ricer onto a lightly floured work surface. Let cool for 3 to 4 minutes.

Form the dough. Bring large pot of water to a boil, then add 2 big pinches of kosher salt.

Form a well in center of riced potatoes. Sprinkle 1/2 cup flour around well, then crack an egg in the middle (see image). Using a fork, beat egg in a circular motion, gradually pulling flour and potato from the sides of the wells. Keep using fork until egg is incorporated, then knead dough with your hands just until it comes together. If the dough is too sticky, add flour (in small amounts) until it becomes smooth. Do not overwork dough here. Pinch off a small bit off dough, and toss it into boiling water to make sure it holds its shape. If it doesn’t, knead in a bit more flour, and test again. Divide dough into 4 pieces, then roll each piece into 1/2-inch-thick rope. Cut each rope into 1/2-inch lengths. Transfer to parchmentlined baking sheet, and set aside while preparing sauce.

Get saucy. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until butter turns light brown color and smells nutty. Add sage leaves, and let sizzle for 1 minute. Take sauce off heat. Drop gnocchi into boiling water and stir. As soon as gnocchi float to surface, they are done (30 seconds to 1 minute). Return brown butter sauce to medium-low heat. Using a slotted spoon, scoop cooked gnocchi into brown butter sauce, tossing to coat. Add pinch of red pepper flakes (to taste) and 2 tablespoons of gnocchi cooking water, tossing to combine. Remove from heat and top with Parmesan cheese. For a nice presentation, shave the cheese with a vegetable peeler. To serve, spoon gnocchi into shallow bowls, and top with more Parmesan cheese to taste. Buon appetito!

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“a n i n c r e d i b l e c o l l e c t i o n

[drink]

of extraordinary drinks.”

—Jeremy LeBlanc

one for the books A published San Diego bartender’s recipe for success B y F r a n k S a b at i n i , J r .

PhotoS by Paul Body

I

f pouring drinks nearly two dozen stories above downtown doesn’t make Jeremy LeBlanc “San Diego’s top mixologist,” literally, then at least the cover of his new book does... promotionally, anyway.

Co-authored by food journalist Christine Dionese, LeBlanc’s picture-heavy paperback, The Best Craft Cocktails & Bartending with Flair, promises “an incredible collection of extraordinary drinks.”

In the book, LeBlanc, a selfdescribed “mixologist trapped in a bartender’s body” who began working behind the bar in his native Boston more than 16 years ago, details cocktailconcocting procedures including “fat washing” whiskey before using it to assemble a Whiskey Pig. This fat-infusion process, best applied to brown liquors, is achieved by adding bacon, beef or venison fat to the whiskey, and then chilling the mixture until the lard solidifies.

The whiskey is strained with a coffee filter, which lets the opulent flavor flow through while eliminating the greasiness.

The volume’s original recipes spotlight other tricks for making

Blood & Sand, Jeremy LeBlanc’s favorite cocktail recipe from his new book.

(continued on page 88)

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Jeremy LeBlanc tends bar at Altitude Sky Lounge

aperitifs, punches, the classics and the exotics. Many are combined with fresh syrups, herbs and other organics. Persimmons and ginger spears, for instance, appear in the high-octane Kings County Moonshine cocktail; a pulpy fruit of Andean origin called cherimoya lands in LeBlanc’s Moet & Chandon White Star bellinis.

(Yields 1 cocktail) One of LeBlanc’s 1 oz. 18-year-old Scotch whisky favorite cocktails from the (we like Macallan for this recipe) book is the Blood & Sand 3/4 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice (see photo on previous 3/4 oz. Cherry Herring Liqueur page).

3/4 oz. Sweet Vermouth “Containing neither (We like Martini & Rossi for this recipe) blood nor sand... you’ll Ice sip, you’ll wonder why, but you won’t care,” Combine Scotch whisky, orange juice, LeBlanc says.

Cherry Herring, vermouth and 20 pieces of The recipe calls for ice (or about one scoop of ice with a 16Cherry Herring, a ruby-red ounce shaker). Shake well for a count of 20, liqueur made by soaking strain and pour into a chilled martini glass. crushed Danish cherries and a blend of spices in neutral grain spirits, which, LeBlanc says, “makes this classic stand out.”

“I also picked this because, in my book, we quote Will Ferrell’s character Ron Burgundy from Anchor Man: ‘I love Scotch. Scotch, Scotch, Scotch.”

Blood & Sand

Join the Club From working at altitude to chilling by the flight path

When he isn’t serving drinks to high-minded patrons at Altitude Sky Lounge or preparing for the release of his next book, a whiskey guide, Jeremy LeBlanc can sometimes be found drinking Whistle Pig, a 100-proof rye he requests when ordering an Aero Sour at The Aero Club Bar on India Street in Midtown.

“The rye gives the whiskey a spicy, fruit flavor that goes down smoothly, even when sipping it straight,” Le Blanc says.

Aero Club general manager Chad Berkey combines one and a half ounces of the whiskey with a half-ounce of simple syrup, a splash of sour, a half-ounce of egg whites and a lemon wedge muddled in a shaker. The ingredients are shaken vigorously to generate froth; sprinkled cinnamon on top seals the deal.

“It’s a craft whiskey sour, creamier in texture and ending with cinnamon on the palate,” says LeBlanc, who’s pleased to take a break and let someone else do the mixologizing from time to time.

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[ pa c i f i c s d

Fried marinated jumbo shrimp sautéed with pepper garlic sauce, served on a bed of baby Bok Choy.

LOTUS THAI 906 Market St., East Village 619.595.0115 (opened 2004) 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest 619.299.8272 (opened 1999) lotusthaisd.com facebook.com/LotusThaiSD

promotion]

H

onored by respected media outlets for serving the region’s “Best Thai” cuisine year after year, Lotus Thai welcomes discerning diners with an unpretentious vibe and the market’s freshest ingredients.

From the bustling kitchens at Lotus Thai’s popular restaurants in Hillcrest and East Village emerge chef Ton Sangkapong’s award-winning recipes from Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Northern Thailand. Customer favorites include Crying Tiger Steak, sea bass in white wine and lemongrass chicken, plus a variety of vegetarian dishes, all offered at customized spice levels to match individual tastes.

For sophisticated, authentic Thai cuisine paired with extensive wine and beer lists and an invigorating menu of Soju cocktails, experience the best of the Far East, right here on the West Coast… only at Lotus Thai.

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G ROO V E

Pink 1/29 Martini Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org

U

p to a dozen musicians will take the stage at the Gaslamp’s Balboa Theatre when classical music-inspired Latin jazz/pop band Pink Martini smoothes into San Diego January 29.

Portland, Oregonian Thomas Lauderdale founded Pink Martini (which he describes as a “little orchestra”) 20 years ago. Since then, the band has toured the world, sharing stages with internationally acclaimed symphonies and selling out arenas from New York to Europe to Australia and everywhere in between.

Nearly two years in the making, Pink Martini’s seventh studio album, Get Happy, was released in September. Appearing on the record are singers China Forbes and Storm Large (Large will perform at the 1/29 San Diego show), plus special guests including singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright and The von Trapps — the latter being the great grand children of Captain and Maria von Trapp from The Sound of Music.

Given that Get Happy includes songs in French, Spanish, Japanese, Turkish and Japanese (among other languages), Pink Martini’s stage show promises to be a unique, multilingual/ multicultural music experience. (Editor’s note: By the way, which one’s Pink?)

[ SO U ND DECISIONS ]

(continued on page 92)

H o l ly A n d r es

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groove [sound

1/4 reel

decisions]

(continued from page 91)

big fish

House of Blues, houseofblues.com O.C. ska rockers most known for their 1997 hit “Sell Out.”

E ste v a n O r i o l

J o n atha n T h o r p e

1/9 snoop

Sounds Like a Plan

lion

FLUXX, fluxxsd.com

January concert calendar

In October, Dee-OhDouble-Gizzle released Reincarnated, an album, documentary and book about his hip-hop journey to enlightenment.

B y C a tl i n D o r set

1/4: Tower of Power

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com This soul/funk band will tour with Journey and Steve Miller Band throughout summer 2014.

1/7: James Durbin

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com The American Idol Season 10 alum (he finished fourth) will release his second rock album, Celebrate, in April.

1/9: Sea Wolf

@ Luce Loft, sodabarmusic.com The Twilight Saga: New Moon soundtrack featured this indie rock band’s song “The Violet Hour.”

1/10: Jonny Lang

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com In March, this Grammy Award-winning blues/gospel rocker will (once again)

join other all-star guitarists in paying tribute to the late Jimi Hendrix at the annual Experience Hendrix Tour.

1/10: Mobb Deep

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com Rappers Kejuan Muchita and Albert Johnson (aka Havoc and Prodigy) comprise this hip-hop duo from Queens, New York.

1/11: Michael Schenker

@ Ramona Mainstage, ramonamainstage.com German rock guitarist most known for his stint as lead guitar in the hard rock band UFO.

1/11: Nipsey Hussle

@ Porter’s Pub at UC San Diego, porterspub.com Los Angeles-based rapper who’s worked with Drake and Snoop Lion.

1/13: Janelle Monae

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com The six-time Grammy Award-nominated R&B singer-songwriter released her second album, Electric Lady, in September.

1/13-14: Pinback

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Songs from these local indie rockers have been used in TV shows Yo Gabba Gabba! and The O.C.

1/16: X

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com This punk rock quartet played the Coachella Music Festival in 2009. (continued on page 94)

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‘

oll Rock n R

ianos P g n i l e Du

THE MOST FUN YOU WILL HAVE WITH YOUR PANTS ON THE GASLAMPS BEST ENTERTAINMENT VALUE!!!

WWW.THESHOUTHOUSE.COM/SD // 655 4TH AVE, GASLAMP QUARTER // 619.231.6700

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1/21 3 doors

groove [sound

decisions]

down

(continued from page 92)

House of Blues, houseofblues.com

1/16: Falling in Reverse

@ SOMA, somasandiego.com Hardcore screamo band touring with Escape the Fate, Chelsea Grin and Survive This! for the Bury the Hatchet Tour.

1/17: Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Psychedelic roots band whose album In These Times made iTunes’ “Best of 2012” list.

1/21: The Aristocrats

@ Brick by Brick, brickbybrick.com Instrumental rock band on a worldwide tour to promote its recent album Culture Clash.

1/23 sts9 House of Blues, houseofblues.com

Instrumental rock/EDM band Sound Tribe Sector 9 (STS9) has performed at Coachella, Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza and many other music festivals since its formation in 1998.

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After their 2000 hit, “Kryptonite,” these rockers founded The Better Life Foundation to help provide children around the world with food, shelter and medical care.

1/22: Randy Rogers Band

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Country boys from Texas.

1/23: Kisses @ Soda Bar sodabarmusic.com Indie pop duo comprised of writer/ blogger/keyboardist Zinzi Edmundson and singer/instrumentalist Jesse Kivel.

1/25: Islands

@ The Griffin, thegriffinsd.com Canadian indie rockers on a mostly California tour with Haunted Summer.

1/25: Wooden Shjips

@ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Psychedeljic rock band from San Francjisco.

1/24: E-40 @ 207 at Hard Rock

1/25: Of Montreal

1/24-25: Ozomatli

1/25: STYX @ Pechanga Resort

Hotel San Diego, 207sd.com This Bay Area rapper is best known for his 2006 hits “U and Dat” and “Tell Me When to Go.”

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Known for their political activism, all members of this Latin hip-hop/rock band have been named U.S. State Department Cultural Ambassadors.

@ The Irenic, casbahmusic.com In 2012, this indie rock band raised nearly $100,000 through Kickstarter to fund its feature-length documentary, Song Dynasties. & Casino, pechanga.com American rock band responsible for the iconic ‘80s hits “Babe” and “Mr. Roboto,” among many others. (continued on page 96)

groove [sound

decisions]

(continued from page 94)

Katie H o v l a n d

1/30The

mezingers

Pennsylvania punk rockers who’ve toured with Anti-Flag, Against Me! and The Gaslight Anthem.

Ché Café, frontgatetickets.com

1/25: Skinny Puppy

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com Electro-industrial band on its North American Live Shape for Arms Tour.

1/25: Tommy Emmanuel

@ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org Readers of Guitar Player magazine named this Australian the “Best Acoustic Guitarist” in 2008 and 2010.

1/26: David Garrett

@ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org While attending Juilliard in the early 2000s, this German violinist picked up part-time modeling gigs for extra cash.

1/26: Christopher Cross

@ Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com The pop rock singer-songwriter won an Academy Award in 1981 for “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do),” the theme song for the film Arthur, starring Dudley Moore.

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1/29: North Mississippi Allstars @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Southern rockers on tour to promote their September 2013 album, World Boogie is Coming.

1/29: Reggie and the Full Effect @ The Irenic,

sodabarmusic.com Inspired by front man James Dewees’ recent divorce, this indie rock band titled its fourth album Songs Not to Get Married to.

1/29: Off! @ The Casbah,

casbahmusic.com The video game Grand Theft Auto V features this hardcore punk band’s new song, “What’s Next?”

1/30: Passafire @ The Irenic, sodabarmusic.com This reggae/rock band’s fifth album, Vines, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart in November. (continued on page 98)

With 3 locations throughout San Diego County, including downtown at East Village, EastLake, and North County, Tavern+Bowl is knockin’ em down in your neighborhood.

COMING SOON TO COSTA MESA! JANUARY 2014

PACIFIcSANDIEGO.com

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groove [sound

decisions]

(continued from page 96)

Va n essa G a v a l ya

1/31GEORGE STRAIT

Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com

1/30: Mayer Hawthorne

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com This soul singer-songwriter’s track, “Your Easy Lovin’ Ain’t Pleasin’ Nothin,” was featured on the Season Four finale of Ugly Betty.

1/31: MXPX @ The Irenic,

sodabarmusic.com Christian punk rockers who played the Rebellion Festival in 2012 (UK’s version of Coachella).

1/31: Blue Oyster Cult @

Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com Seventies rock band most recognized for its 1976 hit “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” and 1981’s “Burnin’ for You.”

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The King of Country hasn’t played in San Diego in nearly 20 years.

This show, with special guest Miranda Lambert, sold out in minutes.

1/31: Wilson Phillips @ Pala Casino, palacasino.com Never having stopped fighting to regain their 1990s glory, this pop trio recently starred in TV Guide Network’s Wilson Phillips: Still Holding On. 1/31: Foreigner @

Harrah’s Rincon Casino, harrahsrincon.com Hits “Feels Like the First Time,” “Double Vision,” “Juke Box Hero” and many others helped this ’80s rock band sell more than 75 million albums to date.

1/31: Travis Porter @ 207 at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, 207sd.com Georgia school buddies Ali, Quez and Strap comprise this hip-hop trio.

groove cycle]

M i l es Pette n gi l l

[spin

1/29

The Griffin, thegriffinsd.com EDM/House artist Robert DeLong started his musical career as a drummer for Indie rock bands.

January edm events B y DJ T r i st a n D

1/4: TKS + Mr. Nice Guy

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Expect “Jump Up” House and Electro with a hint of progressive.

1/10: Treasure Fingers

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Atlanta’s most wanted, Treasure Fingers (aka Ashley Jones) produces bouncy, rolling-style House that’s electrifying.

1/10: Judge Jules

@ Spin Nightclub, spinnightclub.com If you want to check out Judgement Night at Somewhere Loud, be prepared to party with teens. The 18-and-up event also features local EDM heroes Tristan D (that’s me), DJ Ideal Caliparis and many more.

1/16: Cosmic Gate

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Progressive, emotional Trance from the German act that produced 2002’s megahit “Fire Wire.”

1/16: Tommy Trash

@ FLUXX, fluxxsd.com The international iTunes dance-charts topper rolls into S.D. for one bigbooming night downtown.

1/17: Amtrac

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Amtrac’s rolling style comprises Bassline, House and Techno in a fused frenzy.

1/23: Designer Drugs

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Expect raw, big, dirty beats with plenty of crazy thrown in for good measure.

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1/25: Marco V

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com This Dutch superstar mixes chunky Trance with emotional melodies that’ll make you cry.

1/31: DJ Z Trip

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Most often mixing EDM and Hip-Hop, alternative turntablist DJ Z Trip is one of America’s top mash-up artists.

1/30

Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Minimal plus Techno plus House equals awesome!

groove [bartender]

Outpouring of Support

Give yourself a hand... and another round

By Brandon Hernández

T

here’s a sexy new bartender in town. Get a sneak peak at a mirror near you, and then head over to Pike’s place.

Tired of jockeying for position on the customer side of a crowded bar, Dave Pike decided to take matters into his own hands, and those of his customers, at the new Barrel Republic in Pacific Beach.

“Having the freedom to pour and taste at my leisure is more my style,” says Pike.

“And based on overwhelmingly positive feedback, it’s our customers’ style, too.”

Pike is the owner and innovator behind the new beer bar taking over the space formerly occupied by Brewley’s Pint on Garnet Avenue. Barrel Republic is a selfserve spot, where patrons wearing drinktracking radio frequency ID bracelets choose their own beerventures by pulling on 44 taps of draft craft, most of which pour celebrated varieties from San Diego’s esteemed cadre of fermentation specialists.

When the sudscapade comes to a close, simply swap the bracelet for a credit card receipt.

But what if you’re new to brew, and such a vast variety is intimidating? No problem.

In addition to all those taps (and a 151-inch TV), Barrel Republic’s amenities include an expert staff.

“Every member of our staff is a Cicerone-certified beer server, so they can guide our guests with everything from beer choices to pouring techniques and food pairing,” Pike says.

To thine own self be brew!

“Having the freedom to pour and taste at my leisure is more my style.”

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|

Photos by Paul Body

RFID bracelets tell the taps at Barrel Republic who’s pouring the next round.

Wooden ya’ know it — Barrel Republic sports barrel-themed décor

love [blind

d at e ]

“ W e d e c i d e d t o d r e s s m at c h i n g tonight to fu… mess with the guys’ heads. It’s funny if they can’t t e l l u s a p a r t. ” — G r e t c h e n

on the prowl Documenting the dating habits of urban wildcats

Gretchen (left) and Erica

S a fa r i g u i d e : Dav i d P e r lo f f W i l d l i f e ph o t o g r a phe r : B r ev i n B l a ch

D

uring the ice age, saber tooth tigers walked among humans… and ate them.

Millions of years later, freerange San Diego Homo sapiens face a new-fangled predator, the Finest City Feline. Rawwwrrr!

Tonight, cheetahs Gretchen and Erica are headed into the animal kingdom to see what fresh meat they can sink their single teeth into.

Picking up dates at bars may seem prehistoric, but even Neanderthals had man caves and night clubs (they used day clubs for self-defense). So strap on your pith helmets — wearing protection is critical — and buckle up for something wild.

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It’s a jungle out there. Someone’s about to get stalked.

Erica

BY WAY: Sacramento, Calif.

STAY: Golden Hill PAY: Property manager PLAY: “I like to laugh, dance and play. Oh, and eat.”

PREY: I’m searching for true love. He has to be funny. He cannot wear a deep V. And, for the love of God, he can’t have any chin hair.

TODAY: “I hope I’ll get drunk.

Oh, God… that’s bad. I hope that I will find true love, we’ll get eloped… and then we’ll go to different countries and sail the seven seas.”

Gretchen FROM: Thousand Oaks, Calif.

STAY: Golden Hill PAY: Graphic design PLAY: “I enjoy wine tasting; going out to eat; interior design;

and hunting for treasures at the swap meet, garage sales and thrift stores.”

PREY: “Ideally I would like to find somebody smart, driven, goal-oriented and just funny. And good-looking is always a plus.”

TODAY: “I hope Erica meets someone nice that she can have a relationship with.”

The first stop on this evening’s adventure is Waterfront in Little Italy. Currently celebrating its 80th anniversary, this wildlife watering hole opened in 1933, the same year Balboa Park’s Museum of Natural History did.

In search of prey, Gretchen and Erica stray-cat strut among the natives. They find groups of men mingling in small herds, but struggle to snag victims for free drinks and subsequent obligatory interviews with (continued on page 106) PacificSD.

C M

love [blind

d at e ]

(continued from page 104)

girls gone wild Minx, winks

and high jinks

T

he hunt takes a turn when Erica Marks her territory, separating a young buck from the pack. After the two have had a chance to talk for about 15 minutes, they’re split so the male can discuss his mating rituals and whether he’s met his match.

Mark and his hat have been in town for a week.

They’re visiting from out of state and are heading home tomorrow.

FROM LEFT: Adam, Gretchen, Erica, Mark

PacificSD: Where are you from?

MARK: Atlanta, Georgia.

What do you do for a living?

MARK: I work for a tool company as an implementation engineer… and do bull-riding as well.

What are you doing in San Diego?

MARK: I’m here seeing a doctor, getting some rehab done for my shoulder.

Rehab from what?

MARK: Bull riding. Tore my labrum.

Your what?

MARK: My labrum — it’s right in your rotator cuff.

They can’t fix shoulders in Texas?

MARK: [laughs] Georgia.

My bad. You ever break any bones?

MARK: I have broke a hundred and eight bones to this date.

How many bones do you have?

MARK: I have no idea.

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looking for in a date?

MARK: First impression, yeah. She seems like a real cool girl, a lotta fun.

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

MARK: I’d give her a 10. I think she’s a hot girl.

Which of you is smarter?

MARK: I’m probably tough to beat in the smarts category. She’d have an uphill battle, anyway.

What’s the sexiest thing about her?

MARK: I’m a big fan of blonde hair.

What’s the least sexy thing about her?

MARK: That cheetah outfit she’s wearing.

Playing pool with a wildcat takes balls — 15 of them plus the cue ball.

Mark’s game (double-entendre intended), so he racks ’em up for a quick round with Erica. From the first shot, it’s clear he’s the dominant player.

What do you think of Erica?

MARK: She’s a really pretty girl, looks like Kristin Cavallari off of “The Hills.”

Suddenly, Gretchen arrives in the clearing with a male in her clutches.

She caught his scent, tracked him down and tempted him with a complimentary cocktail. Her quarry, Adam, appears to have a lot of friends at Waterfront this evening.

Today’s his birthday.

Is this the kind of girl you’re

PacificSD: Where are you from?

JANUARY 2014

ADAM: By San Diego State.

Where do you live now?

ADAM: By San Diego State.

What are you looking for in a date?

ADAM: Someone that’s smart, easygoing, not too uptight.

What were you first impressions of Gretchen?

ADAM: I thought she was cute.

She’s outgoing, easy to talk to.

What do you think of her outfit?

ADAM: I like her style.

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

ADAM: Nine.

Which of you is smarter?

ADAM: That’s hard to tell — short conversation.

What’s the sexiest thing about her?

ADAM: She has confidence. It’s nice to not have to do any work… when girls just come to you, that’s nice.

And the least sexy thing?

ADAM: I’m not into girls that are taller than me.

Shortly after his interview, Adam returns to his flock. This has been a catch-and-release program for Gretchen, who has already given up the chase. (continued on page 108)

love [blind

d at e ]

(continued from page 106)

dating pool Testing the waters over a game of billiards

M

ark sinks the Eight Ball without noticing that he has left one of his own balls on the table.

Despite nearly falling off the table while shooting earlier in the game, Erica wins by default and celebrates with a victory dance.

Love flows freely at the Waterfront, even during the rainy season. Despite the reproductive possibilities, however, Gretchen and Erica aren’t managing to get their paws on any Discovery Channel-style romance, so they jump into the limo for the short trip over to the Gaslamp. Before the hunt continues, they discuss their conquests thus far.

PacificSD: How was Waterfront?

ERICA: The Waterfront bar was great. One day I will get married in the Waterfront. Someone will carry me off on their motorcycle... one day.

Talk about the guy you met.

ERICA: He was so nice. He was a gentleman. I would never want to sleep with him.

Why not?

ERICA: He wasn’t like funny or charismatic, just like one of those nice, genuine, boring… [with a Southern twang] barrels and oil.

Which one of you is smarter?

ERICA: Honestly, I would normally think the guy would be. But in this case, I definitely won… the case.

Do you know what he does for a living?

ERICA: He’s a bull-rider.

He bull-rides.

Did you know he broke 108 bones?

ERICA: Ewww!

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Why did you pick him?

ERICA: Nobody would talk to me. He was the only guy that would talk to me. He liked me, so I talked to him.

What was the best thing about the guy?

ERICA: His Levis jeans.

What was the worst thing?

ERICA: His Levis jeans.

PacificSD: What did you think of Waterfront?

GRETCHEN: I like Waterfront, because it is casual and unpretentious. People there are friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy.

Why did you pick Adam?

GRETCHEN: Because he looked like Don Draper on Mad Men. Which of you is better looking?

GRETCHEN: Me. Describe his sexiness or lack

thereof.

GRETCHEN: I thought he seemed like a legitimate person, but he’s 26 and lives by SDSU. So, I’m questioning what the f*** he has going on.

If you don’t go to State, why do you live by SDSU? Which of you is smarter?

GRETCHEN: I’m always smarter, and you can quote me on that. Please do.

Do you want to have babies with him?

GRETCHEN: Never.

What would your babies be like?

GRETCHEN: Retarded. [laughs] What’s the best thing about him?

GRETCHEN: His face?

What was the worst thing about him?

GRETCHEN: Everything else. (continued on page 110)

love [blind

d at e ]

(continued from page 108)

Prey for Me A search for mates at a meating place

Erica can (and does) open twist-off beer bottles with her teeth.

T

he safari caravan lets off at Fifth and Market, in the heart of the Gaslamp. The place is a zoo.

Inside barleymash, a private table is reserved for the blind dating experiment.

To nourish the predators mid-hunt, the chef sends out some of the joint’s gameheavy flatbreads piled high with duck, short rib and other fresh kills.

While Erica scans the horizon for victims, Gretchen rests her legs and tries some pies. When her strength returns, she rejoins the pursuit, disappearing into the crowd in search of her hunting partner.

There’s enough flatbread to feed whatever male representatives of the species the ferocious daters may scare up, but none show. Have the cats lost their scent?

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Actually, it turns out the cats that are lost altogether.

Despite his best efforts, the wildlife photographer cannot track them. The felines have made a beeline, so we pack our gear, terminate the expedition and head back to urbana.

The next day, we catch up to the wildcats at their den.

PacificSD: What did you think of barleymash?

GRETCHEN: Barleymash was going off. The music was great, but it was really hard to talk to anyone or find people to interview because it was so loud in there.

ERICA: Barleymash is a divine place where one can hope to find true love.

How were the flatbreads?

GRETCHEN: Wow! Bomb. (continued on page 112)

JANUARY 2014

MAKE E P I R E TH CALL. .

PICK DIFFERENT

TM

CRISP LIKE AN APPLE . BREWED LIKE AN ALE .

JANUARY 2014

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love [blind

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(continued from page 110)

PacificSD: You vanished. What happened?

GRETCHEN: I lost Erica in the crowd, so I went to look for her. She was talking to some Canadian guys, buying them shots. We ditched them.

ERICA: I met a wonderful group of Canadians. Things were going well for about 30 minutes, but then I got bored. So I vanished on them.

What was the funniest part of the date?

GRETCHEN: Watching Erica try to play pool with the “Cowboy.” [air quotes] ERICA: The funniest part of the night was playing pool with that bull-rider. I think I hit the Eight Ball in 25 times, but somehow I still won.

What did you learn about dating last night?

GRETCHEN: I learned that most guys in relationships will not mention that they aren’t single until you ask them to be interviewed by a magazine.

ERICA: I learned absolutely nothing about dating.

Where will you find your next date?

GRETCHEN: I have a boyfriend — that was supposed to be the surprise-twist ending of this bizarre dating game. He will be taking me on my next date.

Thank God, because pickings are slim these days… unless you’re into cowboys.

ERICA: I will find my next date in hopefully a library of some sorts.

AFTERMATCH: Erica snared a bullriding cowboy last night, but the animal attraction wasn’t there. To be fair, Mark may be allergic to cats, anyway. He did say the least sexy thing about Erica was, “That cheetah outfit she’s wearing.”

A wolf in sheep’s clothing can pillage a flock, but feral women in cats’ pajamas are tougher to spot. As for Gretchen, she really is a cat — a lion… lyin’ about being single.

Gretchen said “most guys in relationships will not mention that they aren’t single until you ask them to be interviewed by a magazine,” and then admitted having a boyfriend while being interviewed by a magazine.

It’s kinda like catching a tiger… by its tale.

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Thank you TO: The Waterfront Bar & Grill 2044 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy 619.232.9656 waterfrontbarandgrill.com

barleymash 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.255.7373, barleymash.com Epic Limo 858.270.LIMO (5466) epiclimo.com

P E6 8 > ; > 8 H 9 E G D B DI > D C R

Exclusive Private Screening

Win two tickets to the event and screening

Thursday, January 9 Party starts at 6:30 p.m.

PacificSD is buying your first two beers Passed appetizers from Cinépolis’ all-new menu Reclinable leather seats with in-theater waiter service

Enter to win at pacificsandiego.com/stayclassy MUST BE 21 TO ENTER

San Diego

© 2013 MILLER BREWING CO., MILWAUKEE, WI © 2013 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

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6941 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Think

Happy medium

A look ahead from a smiling psychic B y Z i m fa

W

hat’s going to happen in the next 12 months is anyone’s guess, especially mine. I’m Zimfa the Psarcastic Psychic. Having looked into a bottle of Cristal, which is way more accurate than the balls I used to look at — I’ve seen the future. Now you can, too.

Kanye or Nay? NASA will announce that alien life forms have declined any further contact with Earth after having seen “Keeping Up with The Kardashians.”

Quoth the aliens, “You watch this crap?

Bleep. Bork.

Kim has a giant ass, and it ain’t Scott Disick.

We’d rather watch Uranus.

Bleep.”

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An Election that Lasts More than Four Hours

After spending the first three months of 2014 under house arrest, Bob Filner will work on improving food-delivery options for other San Diegans stuck at home.

The new initiative, “Filner Tummy,” will fail because the former mayor insists on making deliveries himself.

JANUARY 2014

Going Post-al

Care Package

The next online trend, AntiSocial Media, will spawn the release of Hatr, a network allowing mail carriers and other psychopaths to post messages to each other. The site’s creator will answer skeptics by pointing out that “Facebook, Twitter and Instagram were created by people that have no social skills and reverseengineered by people who do.

We’re just doing the opposite.”

Facing diminishing numbers in popularity polls, our beloved POTUS will dump Obamacare in favor of the Affordable Cher Act, which allows all Americans to see a diva in concert. Those receiving tickets to Tina Turner or Cher will feel vindicated.

However, website bugs will force those with preexisting conditions to see Chaz Bono instead.

Are You Cyrus?

Animal Instincts

During a live TV performance of Jesus Christ Superstar, former Disney Channel star Miley Cyrus will be struck by lightning while twerking in the Sermon on the Mount scene.

The weedloving rapper formerly known as Dee-OhDouble-Gizzle will adopt the culture of Australia’s aboriginal population. In keeping with his new life, he will become Snoop Platypus.

i, Oh My Apple’s new iPhone Sex will offer a more powerful Vibrate mode and a bigger, uh, jack.

“Here’s something to think about: How come you never see a headline like ‘Psychic Wins Lottery’?”

—Jay Leno

Horizontal logo with gold drop and no gradation on red