70+ NEW S.D. RESTAURANTS INSIDE
JANUARY 2018
PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
® ® Please Please drinkdrink responsibly. responsibly. Corona Corona Familiar Familiar Beer. Beer. Imported Imported by Crown by Crown Imports, Imports, Chicago, Chicago, IL IL ® ® Please Please drinkdrink responsibly. responsibly. Corona Corona Familiar Familiar Beer. Beer. Imported Imported by Crown by Crown Imports, Imports, Chicago, Chicago, IL IL ® ® Please Please drinkdrink responsibly. responsibly. Corona Corona Familiar Familiar Imported Imported by Crown by Crown Imports, Imports, Chicago, Chicago, IL IL ® Beer. ® Beer. Please Please drinkdrink responsibly. responsibly. Corona Corona Familiar Familiar Beer. Beer. Imported Imported by Crown by Crown Imports, Imports, Chicago, Chicago, IL IL
EDITOR’S NOTE
Going Green It’s hard to miss the marijuana leaf on the cover this month. PACIFIC has had cannabis on its cover before (see December 2016’s Tokin’ Santa, left), but this time it’s different: Legal recreational cannabis has arrived in San Diego. And now, like the city of San Diego has done, PACIFIC is going all in. In November, PACIFIC’s new website launched with the addition of a new content category: Eat | Drink | Puff. This recreational catchall now includes a page dedicated to cannabis. The legalization of cannabis in San Diego is going to create a lot of buzz — the kind of buzz a lifestyle and entertainment magazine editor lives for. As with anything new, there are bound to be questions. Can anyone purchase marijuana now? Can you toke in public? How do you avoid getting too high from eating edibles? Find answers to these questions and so much more in “High Hopes” (page 52). Gone are the days where the only images of pot smokers were ’70s hippies or the stoners portrayed in such movies as Half Baked or Fast Times at Ridgemont High (which is based on San Diego’s Clairemont High School class of ’79, in case you didn’t know). Today’s cannabis culture includes new faces, like Marie Tahan Daniels (see “Grass Fed,” page 58), who has been working with local chefs to create multi-course cannabis dinners aimed at getting diners just high enough to enhance the food and dining experience. In this new era, the grass is also greener on the other side of the bar, as you can now set foot in an uber-chic restaurant in San Diego, order a cannabis cocktail (read about Mr. Nice Guy on page 86), and then brag about it (without fear of arrest) on social media. On Jan. 1, whether you pick up your first ounce or your 500th, or if you still aren’t sure tokin’ is your jam, venture into this new world with PACIFIC. If you still have questions, don’t hold your breath (but maybe don’t rush to exhale). Instead, send me an email, and I’ll put my team on the case. It’s time to turn over a new leaf, San Diego. Sincerely,
Leslie Hackett leslie@pacificsandiego.com 6
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
QUOTABLE
IT’S NOT THE CHEECH AND CHONG ERA ANYMORE. — MARIE TAHAN DANIELS, “GRASS FED” ON PAGE 58
Volume #12 Issue #01
JANUARY 2018
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIGITAL DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR MANAGING EDITOR DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Outstanding oceanfront dining in the heart of Del Mar. Since 1968.
1670 Coast Blvd., del Mar | (858) 755-9345 |
COPY EDITOR
poseidonrestaurant.CoM
Leslie Hackett Kenny Boyer Jennifer Ianni John McCutchen Monica Hodes-Smail
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michael Benninger, Lisa Deaderick, David Garrick, James Hebert, Pam Kragen, Maya Kroth, Scott McDonald, Gary Robbins, Peter Rowe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Brooks, Howard Lipin, Alejandro Tamayo
EDITORIAL INTERN
Chris Madaffer
PUBLISHER VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES MULTIMEDIA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
David Perloff Paul Ingegneri Lisa Marsolais, Laura J. Schwartz, Alyson Tietze Greg Johannsen
Reach America’s finest readers via print, web, social, email, street team and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! PACIFIC is a media property owned by The San Diego Union-Tribune.
@PACIFICSD 619.296.6300
pacif icsandiego.com A subsidiary of The San Diego Union-Tribune
10
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
CRAFTED WITH ROASTED DARK MALTS AND REFINED HOP BITTERNESS
EXPERIENCE THE DARKER SIDE OF SAPPORO SAPPOROBEER.COM
PLEASE SHARE SAPPORO RESPONSIBLY. ©2016 SAPPORO U.S.A., INC., NEW YORK, NY
P R O M OT I O N
MONKEYING A ROUND A DECADE AFTER IGNITING S.D.’S COCKTAIL SCENE, SAM ROSS RETURNS FOR 2017’S BIGGEST INDUSTRY BASH BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
On November 15, bartenders, beverage directors and discerning drinkers from far and wide descended upon Polite Provisions for the can’t-miss industry party of 2017. Monkey Shoulder Whisky’s Associate Brand Ambassador, Tobias Schopf, hosted the event, which featured guest bartenders Sam Ross, Michael McIlroy and Andrew Rice (owners of New York City’s famed cocktail spot, Attaboy), plus an impressive roster of San Diego’s hospitality hotshots. For Ross in particular, the occasion offered an opportunity to see the results of a movement he started here nearly a decade ago. A legend in the international cocktail community, Sam Ross is a native Australian who made a name for himself by crafting cocktails at Milk & Honey, the 500-square-foot mixology mecca in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It’s there that he met McIlroy and Rice and worked side-by-side with Sasha Petraske, the patron saint of countless bartenders 14
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
and the man credited with restoring cocktail culture to its pre-Prohibition popularity. In 2008, while working at Milk & Honey, Ross was approached by the minds behind Consortium Holdings, a San Diego-based hospitality group that sought his expertise in launching their initial effort, a speakeasy named Noble Experiment. Ross took CH up on their offer and traveled to San Diego to teach Noble Experiment’s founding crew the art of concocting exceptional cocktails, including his own signature drink, the Penicillin – made with Monkey Shoulder Whisky, honey-ginger syrup, lemon and Islay Scotch. Over the ensuing years, as Noble Experiment prospered and CH has opened a bevy of additional venues around America’s Finest, Ross’s influence on the local industry has disseminated through countless bars and bartenders, setting the standard for the city’s quality cocktails.
A day after the epic party at Polite Provisions, Ross and McIlroy spoke about the event over drinks at Carlsbad’s Campfire, where they joined by celebrated San Diego bartenders Adele Stratton (Jaynes Gastropub) and Eric Long (False Idol). PACIFIC: What were some highlights of last night’s party? Sam Ross: Just getting my ass kicked for three hours straight. And seeing people who started at Noble Experiment and Neighborhood back in the day; seeing where they are now and seeing them all come out to the event. And seeing how f***ing serious people take events like this out here. It was packed to the gills. Michael McIlroy: The past few events we’ve done have been fantastic, but last night, there was one point where Sam and I turned around and went, “This is f***ing nuts.” It was like, “Turn the music up. Let’s keep this going.” Andrew Rice: Last night was awesome. It was a good crowd of cocktail enthusiasts and people who’ve spent time at Attaboy in New York. And then a bunch of friends and cool industry folks too. It was a good mix. And Polite Provisions, they’re all pros there. How has your time at Noble Experiment influenced your career? Eric Long: Before Noble, I was working at Ironside, and I was like, “I can bartend.” Then I went to Noble, and I completely sh*t myself. It was a kick in the face. My first day, I think it took me 14 minutes to make three or four drinks. It was a reality check, and it frustrated me so much, but it was motivating. Even though I’m not at Noble anymore, the things I learned there still apply at False Idol. It’s a completely different bar with a different dynamic – it’s high-volume, and we’re making mai tais and piña coladas for savages – but the attention to service and the attention to detail is still there. Adele Stratton: It was like going to a really strict school where there’s a certain way you do things – and, regardless of what bar you’re in or where you go, there’s a certain way, a standard that you have to maintain in terms of spec, and balance and dilution.
Become a believer and learn the finer points of cocktail-making with the completely rebuilt Bartender’s Choice app, created by the co-owners of Attaboy. Browse through more than 600 cocktail recipes, histories and how-tos, all sorted by spirit, style of drink and sensation. Here are a few libations from the app, all made with Monkey Shoulder Whisky. PENICILLIN 2 parts Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky ¾ part Lemon ¾ part Honey syrup (3 to 1 honey to water) ¾ part Ginger syrup (3 parts ginger to 2 parts water/white granulated sugar). Islay Float MIDNIGHT STINGER 1 part Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky 1 part Fernet Branca ¾ part Lemon ¾ part Simple Syrup MONKEY CARLO 2 part Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky ½ part Benedictine Angostura bitters ATHOL BROSE 2 parts Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky ½ part Honey (3 to 1 water ratio) float of coconut whipped cream
Sam Ross: We’ve always placed a huge emphasis on training, and it’s great to hear these reactions. We’ve never asked people to do things our way because we want them done our way. We show you that there’s no other way to do them. We make them believers. @PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
15
CONTENTS FEATURES
JANUARY 2018
52 HIGH HOPES New marijuana law met with anticipation, questions
16
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
ON THE COVER: Those looking to experience nonpsychoactive cannabis can stop by University Heights’ Madison on Park and order the Mr. Nice Guy, a drink devised by bar manager Danny Kuehner that contains cannabidiol (CBD) oil. Photo by Alejandro Tamayo. See story, page 86
CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS JANUARY 2018
CURRENTS 24 EVENTS
What’s happening right now
36 LAUGHING STOCK
January stand-up comedy shows
PULSE 40 ART BEAT
January gallery & exhibition openings
46 CURTAIN CALLS
January performing arts preview
48 COMFORT + JOY
PIYOGA brings unique apparel from Bali stateside
TASTE 62 ENTREZ NOUVEAU ON THIS PAGE: Yogis enjoy the flattering and comfortable design of PIYOGA pants, created by San Diegan Larissa Miller. Learn more about what inspired Miller and get her health tips to kick start the new year on page 48.
A look at what restaurants invited guests in to finish up 2017 and which will open their doors during the first half of 2018
82 TAKE IT FROM THE TAP A monthly taste of beer from here
86 NICE & TOASTY
A cheers to legal weed with Madison on Park’s cannabis-infused cocktail
GROOVE 90 SOUNDS LIKE A PLAN
January concert calendar
102 TAKE A SPIN
Upcoming EDM and DJ performances
LOVE 106 IN FOR A RIDE
18
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Athletic adventurers learn the ropes about slopes
w e n e R r u o y
! e l y t s KITCHEN REMODELING BATHROOM REMODELING ROOM ADDITIONS
WESTSTAR
CONTRACTORS QUALITY CONSTRUCTION OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE CALL DON 619.247.9496 WestStarContractors.com LICENSE # 931836
P R O M OT I O N
BOUTIQUE-STYLE LIVING DRAWS DEVOTEES IN SAN DIEGO
F & F Income Properties, Inc., just completed The Evelyn, a boutique residential property in North Park.
BY B R I T T N E V E TS KY
Authentic, eccentric, creative and unique: These are just a few words that describe boutique rentals in San Diego, a growing trend among those who also value personality — not just price — in their housing choice. In the face of soaring home prices and diminishing interest in high-rise living, many San Diegans are opting for highend rentals in boutique communities — multiunit housing that fosters a sense of connection and community while also offering a crucial, comforting escape from hectic urban life. Each of these properties, a community within itself, reflects the culture and vibe of its unique neighborhood. There’s also another big bonus: Most are an easy walk to an array of San Diego’s best restaurants, craft breweries and locally owned shops. Dan Feder, the founder and president of F&F Property Management, develops, owns and operates more than 20 of these boutique properties. Being the owner-operator and 22
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
landlord translates into better service for the tenant than a third-party management company would provide, he says. “As a landlord, you have kind of a social responsibility to have folks feel like this is really their home,” he says. When Dan began conducting property renovations over five years ago, he wanted to offer renters something no other landlord and developer in San Diego offered at the time: living opportunities that matched both a renter’s lifestyle and the ethos of the community. Local designer Michelle Harrison specializes in lifestyle design concepts with character and has worked with Dan for years on numerous complexes, helping him create these one-of-a-kind apartments and bringing those concepts to life. She praises his creative vision and said she loves working with him. “He will say, ‘Let’s just do something totally different; think about something you have never done before,’ and it works,”
Michelle says. “It makes people say, ‘I want to live here.’ ” Some of F&F Property Management’s boutique renovations include units in the University Heights and Rolando neighborhoods, and the cities of Chula Vista and La Mesa. Rolando is mostly residential, except for the stretch along El Cajon Boulevard, which features the conveniently located Campus Plaza shopping center with a Vons grocery store and numerous places to eat. La Mesa, only nine miles east of downtown San Diego, has an up-and-coming dining scene, with several acclaimed new restaurants and breweries. It’s great for those who want the conveniences of downtown living, but with less hustle and bustle. F&F Property’s latest project, The Evelyn, is its first from-the-ground-up complex, located in North Park. The Evelyn, at 2129 El Cajon Blvd., is next door to the trendy Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows, and within walking distance of several restaurants. “North Park reminds me a lot of what Hollywood felt like 25 years ago — not the entertainment side, but the artistic side,” Dan says. “It’s a very vibrant community, and you know it’s good when you have great restaurants, talented chefs, breweries and much more to come.” Architecture firm AVRP Skyport Studios has worked on The Evelyn project since Day One. The building, not your run-of-the-mill complex, takes advantage of the site’s three-dimensional aspect with units that accentuate vertical space. Chris Veum, president at AVRP Skyport Studios, played an aesthetic role working with the building’s exterior, colors, shapes and finishes. Dan and Chris’ team worked together closely to create something unique to ensure that it appeals to the right audience and their lifestyle. We asked, “Why ‘Evelyn’?” and Dan’s answer was simple: He has four kids and likes to name a special project after each one. At the time he started this one, daughter Evelyn was just 18 months old and, he says, he wanted it to remind him of her — beautiful and classy. The units at the Evelyn are bigger compared with many others on the market, and Evelyn, although little, has a really big personality, he adds. Now that she’s 4, he also gets to see the biggest smile on her face every time they drive by her namesake, Dan says. F&F Property Management is a truly family-oriented business with an incredible company culture. The knowledgeable and local team members came up with the tagline they live by: “Do the right thing, plus one.” It means, Dan says, that you are not just doing the right thing but you believe in your heart that you are doing the right thing. Those “plus ones” come when putting in that little extra effort — when no one is looking. The team extends this motto to all of its communities and residents, part of their goal to make residents feel at home. F&F Property Management has highly desirable boutique rentals in Golden Hill, South Park, North Park, Paradise Hills, East Village and the city of El Cajon with the goal of adding more properties every year in other parts of the county. If you are looking to live in a neighborhood with its own local flavor and culture that fits your unique lifestyle, check out their available properties at fandfinc.com.
The Evelyn’s sleek residential units include modern, efficient kitchens.
“AS A LANDLORD, YOU HAVE KIND OF A SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE FOLKS FEEL LIKE THIS IS REALLY THEIR HOME.”
Michelle McAllister designs the interiors spaces for many of Dan Feder’s residential construction projects.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
23
CURRENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING RIGHT NOW BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
1.21-1.28 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK countywide, sandiegorestaurantweek.com
More than 180 restaurants throughout the county showcase special prix fixe menus during this semi-annual celebration of San Diego’s culinary scene.
24
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
CURRENTS | EVENTS
P H OTO BY K.C. ALF R E D
1.7 SAN DIEGO RESOLUTION RUN Tecolote Shores, Mission Bay, sandiegoresolutionrun.com
Work off some of that holiday weight with a scenic 5K, 15K or half-marathon along a flat and scenic waterfront course.
26
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H
BAY HO, 92117 Move-in-ready 3-bed, 2-bath home rarely on the market in sought-after Bay Ho location with 180-degree views from Mt. Soledad to the mountains in the East. Open and bright floorplan features vaulted ceilings, wood-laminate flooring, fresh paint, brick fireplace, upgraded vanities with dual sinks in master, updated plumbing and electrical, and painted garage floor. Great curb appeal with paved driveway, drought-tolerant landscaping in large backyard, plus a covered patio – all perched on the edge of canyon with scenic views. 2746 Wyandotte Ave., San Diego, CA 92117; $745,000 - $775,000
POINT LOMA MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 29 # of homes sold: 14 (Nov.) Highest price: $1,688,900 Lowest price: $265,000 Average price: $799,368
As we move into January, expect increased activity in the market. The end of the holiday season means sellers have more time available to list their homes, and buyers are more actively looking at properties. It’s a good time of year for sellers, because there is less competition as we finish out the winter season. Interest rates remain low, which makes it great to start the New Year with the purchase of a new home.
MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI
MelissaTucci.com | Sold@MelissaTucci.com 1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116
|
619.787.6852
|
BRE # 01380034
No. 1 ranked Coldwell Banker agent/broker and official real estate agent of the San Diego Padres.
BROKER/REALTOR (R)
CURRENTS | EVENTS 1.6 EPIC SERIES OBSTACLE CHALLENGE Elite Athlete Training Center, Chula Vista epicseriesocr.com
Combining elements of cross-training, Strongman contests and traditional obstacle courses — though minus the mud and long distances — this challenge offers tiers for novice, intermediate and advanced athletes, along with a separate elite.
1.7 SAN DIEGO VINTAGE FLEA MARKET The Observatory, North Park sdvintagefleamarket.com
Shop till you drop while browsing through wares from more than 100 merchants at this free, rain-or-shine market bringing together clothing, furniture and vintage gifts of all shapes and sizes.
1.7 CARNAVAL FANTASTIQUE Sycuan Casino, El Cajon sycuan.com
Agility, strength and insane acrobatics converge in this thrilling musical experience that includes comedy, laser effects and Vegas-style dancers.
Sports
SAN DIEGO GULLS HOME GAMES 1.5-6 VS SAN JOSE BARRACUDA 1.10 VS CHICAGO WOLVES 1.13 VS TUCSON ROADRUNNERS 1.19-20 VS SAN JOSE BARRACUDA P H OTO BY C HAD D CADY
1.12-13 POWAY WINTER FESTIVAL
P H OTO BY M I SAE L VI R G E N
Poway Community Park, Poway poway.org
SAN DIEGO SOCKERS HOME GAMES
Reminding everyone that the season isn’t over just because the holidays are, this weekend-long winter wonderland gives guests a chance to go sledding, build a snowman, roast marshmallows and skate around a rink.
1.7 VS TURLOCK EXPRESS 1.12 VS TACOMA STARS 1.21 VS ONTARIO FURY
1.13 7TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO BEER FEST Liberty Station, Point Loma sandiegobeerfest.com
Knock back samples of more than 150 beers from 70 local and international brewers, then soak up those suds with grub from S.D.’s best food trucks during this day of drinking, eating and live music.
1.13 SAN DIEGO MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL Ruocco Park, downtown, sdmulticultural.com
Immerse yourself in San Diego’s rich cultural diversity at this free waterfront festival showcasing international art and entertainment from Asian, Afro-Cuban and Native American cultures, among many others. 28
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Movies 1.5 INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY 1.12 THE COMMUTER, THE POST, PADDINGTON 2, PROUD MARY 1.19 12 STRONG 1.26 EXTINCTION, WHITE BOY RICK
THE POST
Biography | Drama Directed by Steven Spielberg Starring Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks and Alison Brie In theatres Jan. 12 The first woman publisher of a major U.S. newspaper works with her editor to expose a massive government cover-up that leads all the way to the White House.
R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H
DOWNTOWN, 92101 LOFT | 2 BA | 1,924 SQ FT | $1,249,900
Enjoy true loft living in this amazing 9th-floor SW corner with stunning ballpark and bay views. Flooded with natural light and gentle bay breezes, this property is an entertainer’s delight. Features 1,924 sqaure-feet of open living space with gleaming hardwood floors, oversized west-facing balcony and generous south-facing balcony. Features gourmet kitchen, spa-style master bathroom, plenty of built-in storage and closet space, plus custom lighting and window coverings throughout. Includes 2 parking spaces and private storage room. 877 Island Avenue #909, San Diego CA 92101
DOWNTOWN MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 242 # of homes sold: 60 (Nov.) Highest price: $4,850,000 Lowest price: $250,000 Average home price: $514,000
According to local economists, the sale of one new home will, on average, trigger a total of 3 home sales. Because Pacific Gate by Bosa will start closing escrows in the first half of 2018, we expect to see more properties come to market from the local move up buyers. This in turn should make way for other property owners to move up or for new buyers to get into the market in buildings that aren’t as expensive as Pacific Gate (avg $2m sales price). Prices in 2018 are expected to rise similarly to 2017 with upward pressure on the lower end of the market since there’s been no new non-luxury condos added since 2008.
Chad@DanneckerandAssociates.com | @welcometosandiego.com #welcometosandiego | @WelcometoSD 875 G St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101
|
619.356.3099
|
BRE#01459513
CHAD DANNECKER WELCOME TO SAN DIEGO REAL ESTATE - DANNECKER & ASSOCIATES
CURRENTS | EVENTS
P H OTO BY J O H N GASTALD O
1.14 38TH ANNUAL DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PARADE Embarcadero, downtown, alpha-zsl.org
One of the country’s largest celebrations in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this parade is filled with drill teams, dazzling floats and high school bands, among other organizations.
1.13-14 SAN DIEGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW San Diego Convention Center, downtown travelshows.com/shows/san-diego
Discover your next vacation destination during two days of travel-centric seminars featuring live cooking demonstrations, international song and dance performances and even camel rides right in the Convention Center.
and more famous monster trucks take over a dirt-filled Petco Park in this action-packed auto event.
NTC Park at Liberty Station, Point Loma 5khappyhourrun.com
1.26 TASTE OF EASTLAKE
It’s less about time and more about tolerance at this unique fun run where every runner scores a free beer, wine or margarita at the finish line.
The Venue at Eastlake, Chula Vista eefkids.org
1.27-28 SAN DIEGO CAT SHOW
Sample Eastlake’s best eats all in one place as South Bay’s signature banquet hall fills with fantastic food, local sips, live entertainment and a silent auction.
Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar sandiegocat.org
The Shoppes at Carlsbad, Carlsbad carlsbadmarathon.com
1.27 22ND ANNUAL HANOHANO HUKI OCEAN CHALLENGE
Four hundred and fifty felines of more than 40 breeds compete in beauty and agility categories at the West Coast’s largest cat expo, highlighting pedigree and household kitties from across the U.S.
This out-and-back coastal course marks the first race in the 2018 Half Marathon Triple Crown Series and features bands, a beer garden and a fitness expo at the finish line festival.
North Jetty, Mission Bay hanohano.com
1.28-2.3 DINE OUT ESCONDIDO
1.14 CARLSBAD MARATHON & HALF
1.20 MONSTER JAM Petco Park, East Village monsterjam.com
Grave Digger, Blue Thunder, El Toro Loco 30
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
One of California’s longest-running paddlesport races returns, inviting athletes of all ages and experience levels to paddle their way across Mission Bay.
1.27 SAN DIEGO 5K HAPPY HOUR RUN
throughout Escondido visitescondido.com
Featuring fare from France, Italy, El Salvador and Mexico, 30 of Escondido’s most excellent eateries offer specials such as craft beer and burger pairings, farm-to-fork bites and chef-owned culinary experiences.
CURRENTS | EVENTS
P H OTO BY K.C. ALF R E D
1.25-28 FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN Torrey Pines Golf Course, La Jolla farmersinsuranceopen.com
The world’s best golfers (along with oodles of ogling admirers) return to Torrey Pines as the PGA Tour makes its annual stop in San Diego.
32
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
GET YOUR DEAL WITH KIRBY!
LIST YOUR HOME FOR
1
%
AND GET UP TO 20% BUYER REBATE OF COMMISSION
Kirby Scofield “I fight to get families the best deal, and cherish the friendships we’ve grown from it. With us on your side, you have professionals in real estate that will look out for your best interest. Period.”
1-833-KIRBY-4-U | Info@Kirby4u.com
WWW.KIRBY4U.COM
CALBRE#01999244 | certain minimums & restrictions apply
CURRENTS | EVENTS
P H OTO BY K.C. ALF R E D
1.25-28 SAN DIEGO SUNROAD MARINA BOAT SHOW Sunroad Resort Marina, Harbor Island, bigbayboatshow.com
Meet marine vendors, soak up knowledge in boating seminars and scope out the latest nautical products and services at this annual event that brings together the biggest brands on the water.
34
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
450HP
2018 Lincoln Black Label Navigator Yacht Club Theme.
CURRENTS
Laughing Stock
January Stand-up Comedy Roundup BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
1.4-6 DREW MICHAEL @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
“I was home in Chicago for the holidays. It was good — I got to see people I don’t normally see. I got to see my therapist. That’s always fun. She sat me down and she’s like, ‘You know what your problem is, Drew? You’re a devaluing narcissist.’ F**k. I didn’t know that was a thing someone could be. Ouch! That’s tough to hear from a worthless piece of s**t who’s obviously jealous of me.” — Drew Michael at The Meltdown
1.26-28 CORT McCOWN @ The Comedy Store, lajolla. thecomedystore.com
Married guys can fart. That’s huge. When you’re single and go out on a date, you have to sit there and suck in that fart for 3-and-a-half g*dd*mn hours. It’s uncomfortable, man! Girls, you think we’re being nice when we open car door for you? As soon as we shut the door, we just s**t our pants as we walk around the car. Watch his face — he’s crop-dusting. — Cort McCown at Gotham Comedy Club 36
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
1.5-7 BRET ERNST
1.18-20 JAY CHANDRASEKHAR
@ The Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com
“I’m Sicilian, which... that’s the bad one. That’s the one where your mind automatically just goes to bad places. Like, I walked into a 99cent store, and my first thought was, I’d have to steal over 500 items in order to get charged with grand larceny.” — Bret Ernst on Just for Laughs
1.12-14 BILL BELLAMY @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
“They not looking for black people. The government know what we do. They let us on the planes ’cause they know we could never be terrorists. Black people ain’t gonna blow up nothin’. They know 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 gotta be on time to f**k with bombs.” — Bill Bellamy on Back to My Roots
“It stinks like sex in here.” — Jay Chandrasekhar as Thorny in Super Troopers
1.19-2 DEAN DELRAY
@ The Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com
“Every show I do, at least one person hates me. Once it was a guy in a wheelchair. He hated me so much, he stood up and walked out of the room.” — Ian Bagg at the Improv
@ Harrah’s Resort SoCal, harrahssocal.com
“What a great friend alcohol is. When you black out... basically alcohol’s going, ‘Hey, it’s about to get pretty messy here in a second. You can go ahead and take off. We’ll take it from here. We’ve got it from here on out.” — T.J. Miller on Meticulously Ridiculous
@ The Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com
“This guy is crazy homophobic. Last summer, we go dirtbike riding, just the two of us. We’re out in the desert, we’re tearing it up, we’re having a great time. This guy crashes. He’s laying there and he’s bleeding and dying and like, ‘Help me!’ I ride up on my bike, and I’m like, ‘Dude, jump on my bike. I’ll take you to the hospital.’ He says this to me: ‘I ain’t going nuts to butts with you.’ I’m like, ‘Nuts to butts? Who says this? Get on the bike, dude. You are dying!’ He says, ‘No way! Somebody might see us.’ ‘Yeah, like a doctor. Let’s go!’” — Dean Delray at the Laugh Factory
1.25-27 COLIN KANE @ American Comedy Co., american comedyco.com
“Going back to bed after you eat breakfast is the definition of success.” — Colin Kane on Twitter
1.28 ADAM SANDLER @ Pechanga Resort & Casino, pechanga.com
1.21 JO KOY @ Copley Symphony Hall, sandiegosymphony.org
1.12-14 IAN BAGG
1.27 T.J. MILLER
@ American Comedy Co., american comedyco.com
“I’m not knocking what my mom had to do to get to America. F**k it. That was her hustle. God bless you, Mom. You hooked up with a soldier and had a kid in America. She did what she had to do. She could’ve hooked up with a Filipino and had a kid in the Philippines. You know how much a comedian makes in the Philippines? A chicken and flipflops. And f**k that. I don’t even like flip-flops.” — Jo Koy on Live from Seattle
“You little son of a bitch ball! Why you don’t you just go home? That’s your home! Are you too good for your home? Answer me! Suck my white ass, ball!” — Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in Happy Gilmore
P H OTOS: D R EW M I C HAE L BY ALE X Z E R MAN; C O RT M C C OWN BY F R AN K I E LEAL.C O M; B I LL B E LLAMY BY B RYAN STE F FY/G ETTY I MAG ES; IAN BAG G BY DAN D I O N; JAY C HAN D R AS E K HAR BY ALB E RTO E. R O D R I G U E Z / G ETTY I MAG ES; D EAN D E LR AY BY MAR C US P R I C E; J O KOY BY M I C HAE L TU LLB E R G /G ETTY I MAG ES; T.J. M I LLE R BY MAN D E E J O H N S O N P H OTO G R AP HY; C O LI N KAN E BY ETHAN M I LLE R /G ETTY I MAG ES; ADAM SAN D LE R BY LAU R E NT E M MAN U E L/AF P/G ETTY I MAG ES.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
37
PLEASE DRINK REYKA RESPONSIBLY. TAKK! (THAT’S ‘THANK YOU’ IN ICELANDIC.)
REYKA VODKA, 40% ALC/VOL. (80 PROOF) DISTILLED FROM GRAIN. ©2017 WILLIAM GRANT & SONS. NEW YORK, NY.
PULSE ARTS | COOLTURE ART BEAT BY LISA DEADERICK
1.6-4.8 EXHIBITION: SEEING IS BELIEVING / A GROUP SHOW Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave., downtown 619.696.1416, sparksgallery.com
Nearly 20 artists use photography, sculpture, painting and illustrations to transform the mundane into explorations of the body, relationships and emotions.
Stop Yelling At Me #2 by David Cuzick.
40
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
PULSE
Art Beat
Clockwise (from top): Blue Dreams by Echo Lew; art piece by Wendy Maruyama; Dream Love by David Jester; La Tauromaquia by Pablo Picasso.
January gallery + exhibit openings BY LISA DEADERICK
1.9-2.10 WEST COAST DRAWING GROUP SHOW Ashton Gallery, 4434 30th St., North Park, 619.894.9009, ashtonartgallery.com
“The Boundless Line” is the theme to ring in 2018 during this annual show at Ashton Gallery to kick off the new year.
1.1-31 SPANISH MASTERS — PICASSO, DALI, MIRO Martin Lawrence Galleries La Jolla 1111 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.1122, martinlawrence.com
This exhibition highlights the depth and genius of three Spanish art masters: Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and Joan Miro.
1.5-28 3-UP: ARTWORK BY CHAIRO, JESTER, MCLEISH The Studio Door, 3750 30th St., North Park 619.255.4920, thestudiodoor.com
Three local artists have their figurative artwork on literal display through January. 42
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
1.10 WILDLIFE PROTECTION WITH BIG LIFE FOUNDATION Oceanside Museum of Art 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3721, oma-online.org
This lecture explores the current state of animals threatened by poaching and illegal ivory trade, and artist Wendy Maruyama’s work to promote wildlife preservation in her exhibition The wildLIFE Project.
1.13-3.4 NIKI DE SAINT PHALLE: MYTHICAL CALIFORNIA California Center for the Arts, Escondido 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 760.839.4138, artcenter.org
With a focus on the myths and legends of California, the late artist Niki de Saint Phalle created several large works of art, including a series she developed while living in San Diego.
Sculpture from Queen Califia’s Magical Circle by Niki de Saint Phalle P H OTO BY K U RT LI G HTFO OT
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
43
PULSE | ART BEAT
THROUGH 1.21 INTRINSIC. MATTER.
1.18 PANEL DISCUSSION ON BORDER ART TODAY Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3721, oma-online.org
The curator of the unDocumenta exhibit, which focuses on the struggles of undocumented people, will moderate this discussion on art that takes place where a part of Latin America and Southern California meet.
44
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Japanese Friendship Garden 2215 Pan American Rd. East, Balboa Park 619.232.2784, niwa.org
Artists Sammy Seung-min Lee and Kazu Oba fuse their native traditions with contemporary forms of art through Lee’s practice of Korean Joomchi and Oba’s practice of traditional Japanese ceramic patterns.
1.30 THE ECOLOGY OF SOUND: A COLLECTIVE EXPLORATION OF ‘THE LANGUAGE OF THINGS’ San Diego Art Institute, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.236.0011, sandiego-art.org
A collaboration tied to the sound installation work of Roberto Romero Molina and Art of Elan’s annual Young Artists in Harmony program, which publicly premieres the musical compositions of the students in the program.
1.26-2.25 43RD ANNUAL SMALL IMAGE SHOW Gallery 21 at Spanish Village Art Center 1770 Village Place, Balboa Park 619.233.9050, spanishvillageart.com
Clockwise (left to right): Still from Erasing the Border (Borrando la Frontera); Steve by Bill Dean; artwork by Susan Osborn; Cymbedium in Ink by Jean Shen; a tree built by students as part of the New Hope Project; A Korean-American Supper by Sammy Lee.
An annual show open to all San Diego artists, challenging them to use a small image concept for a wide range of visual expression.
THROUGH 1.28 CREATIVITY AND JOY: THE DANCE OF THE BRUSH Japanese Friendship Garden, 2215 Pan American Rd. East, Balboa Park, 619.232.2784, niwa.org
Master Chinese brush painter Jean Shen and her students express concepts of nature and emotion through the dance of ink and a bamboo brush on rice paper.
THROUGH 2.24 NEW HOPE PROJECT New Americans Museum 2825 Dewey Rd., Ste. 102, Liberty Station 619.756.7707, newamericansmuseum.org
Students from High Tech High Chula Vista participate in this oral history project to celebrate diversity and history by telling the stories of their own lives and those of their families. @PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
45
PULSE
P H OTO BY J OAN MAR C US
Curtain Calls January performing arts BY JAMES HEBERT
1.5-7 A CULTURE SHOCK NUTCRACKER Culture Shock at the Spreckels Theatre 121 Broadway, downtown, 858.432.6231, cultureshockdance.org/nutcracker
Culture Shock’s modernized, 100-dancerstrong version of the holiday favorite has broadened from hip-hop to a pop-culture celebration that takes in everything from Beauty and the Beast to David Bowie.
1.9-14 MIKE BIRBIGLIA: THE NEW ONE
1.6-28 HAMILTON San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, broadwaysd.org
Maybe you’ve heard of this one? The most revolutionary Broadway phenomenon since, well... The Revolution finally lands in San Diego for a nearly monthlong tour stop.
La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla, 858.550.1010, lajollaplayhouse.org
The comic actor, writer and solo performer brings his offbeat brand of storytelling to La Jolla as the year’s first show at the Playhouse.
1.10-2.4 AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS North Coast Repertory Theatre 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach 858.481.1055, northcoastrep.org
Park your hot-air balloon in Solana Beach for this comic adaptation of the Jules Verne story about a very old-school race around the globe.
1.17-2.11 THE LAST WIFE
contest-winning plays by school-age writers from around California.
1.25-2.18 VIETGONE San Diego Repertory Theatre 79 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.544.1000, sdrep.org
1.26-2.25 CLOUD TECTONICS
Qui Nguyen’s much-buzzed-about play invokes comic-book culture, martial arts and more as it chronicles the story of two Vietnamese refugees (who just might be the playwright’s parents) in the ’70s.
NVA revives Jose Rivera’s magical-realist saga as part of its bilingual Teatro Pueblo Nuevo initiative, with Culture Clash cofounder Herbert Siguenza directing.
Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town 619.337.1525, cygnettheatre.com
1.25-2.25 THE CARDBOARD PIANO
Kate Hennig’s play looks at the relationship between Henry VIII and his sixth and final wife, Katherine Parr, through a modern-day lens. (Alternate title: Surviving Henry.)
Diversionary Theatre 4545 Park Blvd., University Heights 619.220.0097, diversionary.org
1.18-1.27 PLAYS BY YOUNG WRITERS FESTIVAL Playwrights Project The Old Globe’s White Theatre, Balboa Park 858.384.2970, playwrightsproject.org
The festival, now celebrating its 33rd anniversary, will once again showcase 46
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Factory workers shed their inhibitions (and plenty else) in the musical about an all-male strip act in a struggling industrial town.
Diversionary puts up the West Coast premiere of the rising playwright Hansol Jung’s piece about romance, war and intolerance in Uganda.
New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State St., Carlsbad, 760.433.3245, newvillagearts.org
1.27-3.4 THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Old Globe Theatre’s Shiley Stage Balboa Park, 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org
Oscar Wilde’s zesty comedy gets a new look from director and Tony Award nominee Maria Aitken of Broadway’s The 39 Steps.
1.28-2.25 BLISS (OR EMILY POST IS DEAD)
1.26-2.25 THE FULL MONTY
Moxie Theatre, 6663 El Cajon Blvd., Rolando District, 858.598.7620, moxietheatre.com
San Diego Musical Theatre, Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., downtown 858.560.5740, sdmt.org
Moxie stages the joint world premiere of Jami Brandli’s mythology-minded riff on a famous guide to proper etiquette.
Offers expire January 2018. September31, Sep 31,2017 31,2 31 ,2017 017 Not valid with other offers. Must mention when booking. Offers are subject to change and may be discontinued at any time. Owned and Operated by Vishal Verma, MD. and Vinita Parekh, DDS.
ANTHONY’s
FISH GROTTO Beautiful & Unique Setting SD’s Favorite Seafood Dog-friendly Outdoor Dining & Play Area
La Mesa 1210
Awesome Happy Hour and Drink Specials Mon-Fri
619-463-0368 • 9530 Murray Drive, 91942
→ANTHONYSFISHGROTTO.COM← @PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
47
PULSE | INFLUENCER
cOMfort +Joy PIYOGA brings unique apparel from Bali stateside.
During a yearlong trip through Asia, San Diegan Larissa Miller was struck by the beautiful textiles in Bali. The inspiration turned into PIYOGA, a yoga and athleisure apparel company, which believes in comfort, as well as helping to save sea turtles through ocean conservation. In her own words PIYOGA is a creative extension of my vision to empower women through flattering and comfortable yoga clothes and to save sea turtles through ocean conservation (10% of each sale goes toward conservation). 48
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
How and when did you discover yoga? I discovered yoga for the first time at the ARC at SDSU in 2010. However, it was when I started practicing at Spirit Yoga in Pacific Beach that I really began to fall in love with yoga. What are some of the benefits of practicing yoga for you personally? Yoga has helped me balance so many different aspects of my life. Plus, the magical high you get after a hot yoga class puts this beautiful smile on your face that is priceless.
LARISSA MILLER
founder of PIYOGA pants Hometown: San Diego Current neighborhood: Normal Heights What do you do for a living? I am the founder of PIYOGA, a yoga and athleisure apparel company. Website/social media handles: piyogapants.com Instagram: @piyogapants Facebook: @piyogapants Twitter: @piyogapants
You were on a yearlong trip to Asia when the idea for PIYOGA pants came to you. What was the purpose of the trip, and what did you hope to gain? Believe it or not, I was actually searching for something I could use to start a business! I was inspired by a YouTube video that showed all the great business ideas that came to life from traveling, like Red Bull from Thailand, Nike in Japan, etc. Traveling really opens your eyes to new products and experiences and it allows you to see gaps in markets from country to country. That is where the magical playground of opportunity opened up for me and I decided to take the risk on $500 to see if I could turn a profit. You had yoga experience, but what about fashion design and business experience? What made you take the leap to designing yoga pants? You got me! I honestly didn’t know anything about fashion design when I started. This was a very transformational time in my life and the two things that kept me moving fast were the quotes “leap, and the net will appear” and “practice making quick and precise executive decisions.” What makes PIYOGA pants different from other yoga pants on the market? PIYOGA pants are boutique lounge and yoga pants that are handmade with love from tropical Bali. Our collection now includes over 60 colorful “fancy pants” that are super soft and lightweight. We call them the “Sisterhood of the Traveling Yoga Pants” because they fit everyone and they’re a must-have when traveling. The new year is generally seen as a time of renewal and resolutions for many people. What would you suggest to a person who is new to practicing yoga, who might be intimidated to try it for the first time, but wants to make a healthy start to 2018? I would recommend taking our 10 Day Instagram Yoga Challenge. It starts Jan. 7 so you have time to recover from the holidays. Best of all, if you participate in all 10 days, you get a pair of PIYOGA pants for free. Follow us on Instagram @piyogapants for more information.
What are some other lifestyle tips for people who want to make 2018 a healthier year? I like to start my day right with a light healthy smoothie. Cutting down on alcohol can also benefit you physically and emotionally. Also, did you know going vegan reduces your carbon footprint up to 50%? Food for thought. Besides yoga, what other practices do you credit for keeping your mind and body in top shape? I love trying everything and I’m constantly motivated by the quote “be the best version of you.” I picked up skateboarding, snowboarding and the ukulele this past year. Don’t let anyone else define what you can or cannot do. You can do anything you set your mind to. Where is your favorite place in San Diego to do yoga? The beach yoga flows are my favorite. Every Saturday and Sunday, John Beck (@johnleebeck) teaches by Tower 5 in Ocean Beach at 10:30 a.m. and Steve Hubbard (@namasteveyoga) teaches oceanfront at the end of Law Street in P.B. at 10 a.m. Both are donation based. My favorite studios are Hapa Yoga in Mission Valley, Indie Yoga in OB and Spirit Yoga in PB. Favorite San Diego boutiques/stores? I love the boho fashion at Brillo de Sol (@brillodesolclothing) across from Single Fin in P.B. I also adore the cute boutique cafes like Coffee & Flowers in North Park (Communal Coffee), the Nest in O.B. and Trilogy Sanctuary in La Jolla. What do you think is San Diego’s coolest neighborhood and why? Tough one. It’s definitely a toss-up between Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach and Encinitas, because that’s where all my yogi friends are. I love them and the beautiful, conscious community we have created together. Favorite San Diego restaurant? Crushed in P.B., hands down. They are killing it with their amazing brunch menu. Shout out to Amy Consuelo for being a boss babe and straight up inspiration for starting her own business.
Top to bottom: Encinitas (photo by Mike Blake); Trilogy Sanctuary (photo by Rick Nocon), La Jolla; Larissa’s business partner, Yasmine Grignard; a model showcases a top seller; Communal Coffee (photo by Rick Nocon), North Park.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
49
San Diego’s BEST Golf Loyalty Program
MEMB ERSHIP B ENEFITS
Complimentary Round of Golf with Golf Car Upon Enrollment, Valid Anytime Up to 55% off Green Fees One Hour Early Twilight Access Same-Day Replay Rate of $20 to walk, $32 to Ride 10% Off Golf Shop Merchandise 15% Off Golf Instruction
10% Off Food Purchases Alcoholic beverages not included
Complimentary Green Fee During the Month of your Birthday Valid Mon-Fri any time, weekends & course holidays after 11am
Earn 1 Point for Every Dollar Spent in the Golf Shop, Restaurant, Lounge & Hotel REDEEM POINTS FOR EXCLUSIVE REWARDS!
15% Off Hotel Rooms Based on availability
2018
Receive ONE FREE round of golf with car Valid 7 Days a Week
3007 Dehesa Road / El Cajon, CA 92019 / 619.442.3425 / sycuanresort.com
New marijuana law met with anticipation, questions
52
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
BURNING QUESTIONS Clearing out the smoke surrounding recreational marijuana use in San Diego BY GARY ROBBINS
A year after California voters legalized recreational marijuana, cities from San Diego to Eureka are about to find out whether consumers will flock to licensed stores to buy it. Ahead of the Jan. 1 enactment of the law, the state and many cities hustled to write and issue permits that retailers needed to begin selling cannabis — a long-standing goal. San Diego has already authorized a marijuana supply chain that covers everything from cultivation to testing to manufacturing. Other cities in the San Diego region are strongly opposed to the sale of “adult use” marijuana, and have banned it. The conflicting moves have created confusion about what is and isn’t permitted under Proposition 64, the law voters approved last year, giving people 21 and older the right to possess, grow and, as of Jan. 1, buy recreational cannabis. To get a feel for what’s to come in the New Year, everyone from state officials to marijuana retailers to police provided information to answer burning questions relating to the changing cannabis laws and culture in San Diego. How many licensed stores will begin selling recreational marijuana on or about Jan. 1, and where will the stores be located? The details are still being worked out, but it appears that there will be about a dozen stores in San Diego. As of late November, the city had issued 17 licenses for the sale of medical marijuana, and more than 10 stores are now open and licensed by the city of San Diego (see page 56 for a list of these locations). As of print time, a majority were still waiting on permits from the state, but were expected to have them by Jan. 1. The number of outlets is expected to grow. San Diego has embraced the sale of marijuana more fully than almost any other community in California, including San Francisco and Los Angeles. The city established a supply chain for marijuana that involves everything from cultivation to testing and manufacturing. Like other cities, San Diego is hoping to generate a lot of money by
taxing marijuana sales, and perhaps to deal a blow to the black market at the same time. What are other cities and unincorporated San Diego County doing? The county Board of Supervisors has taken an opposite stance, outlawing cannabis stores and farms in unincorporated areas. The handful of licensed dispensaries that already exist in those areas will be limited to selling medical marijuana. Many cities also have banned the commercial sale of recreational marijuana, including Poway, Santee, San Marcos and National City. It is possible that one or more will reconsider if things go smoothly in San Diego. Chula Vista is going to discuss legalization in December 2018. Encinitas voters will decide next year whether to allow for the commercial cultivation of marijuana. Despite these restrictions, people who are 21 or older can possess, transport and buy up to one ounce in California. That’s been true since the state’s voters approved Proposition 64 in November 2016. Can I have a delivery service bring recreational marijuana to my home? Some stores say they plan to do deliveries. But they’re still reviewing the rules. You should ask them whether they’re legally entitled to make such a delivery. Does that mean I can buy marijuana without worrying that my employer will fire me if I consume it? Not necessarily. Employers can fire you if you test positive during a drug test. And landlords do not have to allow you to use marijuana on their properties. Those two provisions were included in Proposition 64, largely to increase its likelihood of passing. Will I have to show an ID to buy recreational marijuana? You’ll need a state or federal ID. Your driver’s license will do. And, as noted, you have to be at least 21. Parents won’t be able to bring children into the stores, so plan accordingly. And don’t even think about asking for sample that you can consume in the store. That’s forbidden. So is consuming marijuana in public places.
Top to bottom: Budtender Jay Frentsos displayes a variety of edibles offered at Urbn Leaf; Cannabis plants grown at Outco in El Cajon; Components extracted from trimmings after the buds are removed at Outco; Barcodes are used to keep track of all plants grown at Outco. TO P P H OTO BY HAYN E PALM O U R IV; ALL OTH E R P H OTOS BY J O H N G I B B O N S.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
53
What kind of products do the stores sell? They sell everything from loose marijuana to pre-rolled joints and cigars to battery-powered vaping devices that can be charged by sticking them into the USB port of a laptop. They also sell a lot of edible marijuana products, including popcorn, cookies, syrup, chocolate and candy (see Five things to know about edible marijuana on page X). Marijuana is available in a variety of drinks. And it is infused in butters and other things that are spreadable. There are topical creams and soaps, some of which are designed to alleviate stress, pain or sleeplessness without getting a person stoned. The marijuana you buy will come in a sealed container. You can transport cannabis in a motor vehicle. But don’t open it until you reach a place where you can legally use it, such as a private residence. In fact, place the marijuana in your trunk when you’re leaving the dispensary. Remove temptation. And do not transport marijuana across state lines, even to states like Nevada, where recreational marijuana is legal. You’d be breaking the law.
for each of these contaminants before they reach retail shelves. “Because of this, each time a product changes hands along the entirety of the supply chain, it will most likely be tested to ensure that the buyer is not at risk of a contaminated product.”
Can I use a credit card to buy pot? No. The sale of marijuana is still illegal at the federal level, which means that these stores don’t have easy access to the banking system and financial service companies. For the most part, it is a cash-only businesses. Many stores feature ATMs.
MARIJUANA AFFECTS EVERYONE DIFFERENTLY. WHAT MAKES ONE PERSON MUCH TOO HIGH TO DRIVE A VEHICLE MIGHT NOT EVEN CAUSE ANOTHER PERSON TO BE IMPAIRED AT ALL.
How will a consumer know whether the marijuana they buy from Jan. 1 on is free of harmful pesticides? Dallin Young, executive director of the Association of Cannabis Professionals in San Diego says, “Each and every product must be tested
WEEDUCATION What are the different kinds of cannabis? The federal government says the word marijuana refers to “the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant.” The website Zamnesia attributes the following traits to the two strains: Sativa: Energizing and uplifting. Stimulates creativity and thoughts. Promotes sense of well-being. Relieves headaches and migraines. Reduces nausea. Stimulates the appetite. Relieves depression. Indica: Relaxing and laid back. Relieves pain and aches. Reduces anxiety and stress. Aids sleep. Reduces inflammation. Helps relieve spasms and seizures. Stimulates the appetite. Hybrid: A third class, that can usually be found at most dispensaries, is called “hybrid” which, according to Leafly, “tend to fall somewhere in between the indica-sativa spectrum, depending on the traits they inherit from their parent strains.” Hybrids haven’t always been around, but rather, came later when growers began combining plant genetics from parts of the world. — Gary Robbins
54
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
California has a clearly stated law on alcohol and driving. How clear is the law when it involves marijuana? California Vehicle Code 23152 says, in part, “It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any drug to drive a vehicle.” Police use a variety of roadside techniques to determine if a person is impaired. They also can administer a blood test, which will reveal THC levels. But the test does not clearly indicate when a person used pot. And the amount of THC does not always match how high a person is. Young notes: “Marijuana affects everyone differently. What makes one person much too high to drive a vehicle might not even cause another person to be impaired at all.”
—DALLIN YOUNG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE
ASSOCIATION OF CANNABIS PROFESSIONALS IN SAN DIEGO
The state legislature turned to UC San Diego for help, giving researchers $1.8 million to develop a better, faster roadside sobriety test for marijuana. The research is under way right now. The sale of marijuana is illegal under federal law. Could the government simply shut down all of these stores? “Theoretically, yes,” said Lincoln Fish, co-founder of Outco, a licensed “seed-to-sale” marijuana company in El Cajon. “Practically, it would be incredibly challenging. The RohrbacherFarr amendment, which is likely to be renewed in the next budget, completely restricts the use of federal dollars for enforcement or prosecution of cannabis-related crimes in states where it is legal. “So they have no money to go after dispensaries, grows. And since the American public is now 94 percent in favor of medical marijuana (Quinnipiac poll) and over 60 percent for recreational, it’s unlikely the feds will try to make such a bold move.” Union-Tribune staff writer David Garrick contributed to this story. Sources: California Bureau for Cannabis Control, Association of Cannabis Professionals, San Diego Police Department, UCLA Cannabis Research Institute, UC San Diego, Urbn Leaf, Outco, Mankind Cooperative, Citizens Against Legalizing Marijuana, and “How to Smoke Pot (Properly) by David Bienenstock.
Cola: This is the motherlode of the plant. While this tight grouping of flowers can grow all along the main stem, the largest of them (the main cola or apical bud) grows at the top of the plant. The cola is harvested, dried and referred to as buds or nuggets. THC level: High
IN THE WEEDS
A look at the greens that make up the goods
Did you know that cannabis plants can be male or female? When it comes to harvesting buds that contain the psychoactive properties most associated with being high, female plants are more desirable. “Only the female plant produces the cannabinoid- and terpene-rich flowers that present the array of flavors, effects and therapeutic benefits of the cannabis plants,” said William Hyde, contributor to the newly published The Leafly Guide to Cannabis and host of the What Are You Smoking? podcast. While it’s a battle of the sexes when it comes to which is numero uno, there are several other parts of the cannabis plant that are key to a highquality green goddess. From stalk to leaf to buds, here’s a look at the basic parts of a cannabis plant and the varying levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that are known for the psychoactive properties most associated with being high.
Pistils and stigmas: The sole purpose of the pistil is to catch male pollen to help procreate. They are visible as white-, red- or orange-colored hairs (stigmas) that grow from them. THC level: None
Calyx: Part of the bud itself, the tear-shaped calyx encapsulates the reproductive part of the female plant. This part of the plant is known for a high concentration of trichomes. TCH level: High
Trichomes: When describing the “sugar” that blankets a mature bud and small single-finger leaves that grow from the bud, it is in reference to the trichomes. This resin, which looks like crystallized mushrooms under a microscope, secretes aromatic terpenes and therapeutic cannabinoids THC and CBD. THC level: High
Fan leaves: The symbol of marijuana culture, the fan leaves of cannabis plants are the most iconic part of the plant. “Even people who haven’t smoked cannabis have probably seen the iconic leaf shape in movies and on posters, apparel and hemp-based products,” said Hyde. Depending on the strain, fan leaves will either be “short, bushy, broad” (indica) or “tall, lanky, thin” (sativa), according to the website for Seattle-based Leafly. THC level: Low.
Stalk: The base of a cannabis plant from which the leaves and flowers grow from. The stalk is generally unusable, but the fibers (hemp) are well known for being used in the production of ropes, paper and various textiles. THC level: Low.
Sources: The Leafly Guide to Cannabis; leafly.com; THC Design; massroots.com
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
55
HIGH THERE
Say “hello” to legal recreational cannabis
Left to right: urbn leaf; Golden State Greens in Point Loma; Mankind Cooperative in Mira Mesa, Torrey Holistics in Sorrento Valley. U R B N LEAF BY J O H N G I B B O N S.
Come Jan. 1, medical cannabis cards will no longer be needed in order to make a purchase at licensed dispensaries in the city of San Diego. However, not just any store can open and start selling marijuana-based products. Dispensaries must first apply for a license and be approved by both the city and state to open, operate and sell recreational marijuana. The following 11 locations have been granted licenses to operate in the city of San Diego and are planned to be open at the first of the year for recreational sales.
then, owner Adam Knopf said to The San Diego Union-Tribune, “We are committed to being good neighbors and will demonstrate that our business will have a positive impact.” The dispensary is located in an industrial area called Point Loma Patient Consumer Cooperative and it carries various strains of cannabis, extracts, cartridges, edibles, beverages, topicals, pre-rolls (joints) and miscellaneous gear. 3452 Hancock St., Midway District, 619.268.8035, plpcc.org
THE HEALING CENTER SAN DIEGO
APOTHEKARE
A GREEN ALTERNATIVE
MANKIND COOPERATIVE
Operating two stores, one of which just recently opened in Mission Valley, Apothekare boasts knowledgeable staff members, an extensive selection of premium flowers, edibles, extracts and accessories. Have questions? Check out the blog on the company’s website for video tutorials and other helpful articles like “A guide to getting high with the fam” during the holidays. Kearny Mesa: 5125 Convoy St., 858.836.1303; Mission Valley: 3455 Camino Del Rio South, 619.701.6036, apothekare.com
GOLDEN STATE GREENS, POINT LOMA
Originally opened in 2015, it was only the second legally permitted medical marijuana dispensary within the city of San Diego. Back 56
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Established as a medical marijuana dispensary, A Green Alternative has been providing services with “the mission of creating professional, Safe-Access and labtested medical marijuana.” The dispensary offers various cannabis strains, CBD products, pre-rolls, concentrates, cartridges, extracts, edibles, drinks, tinctures, topicals and gear including rolling papers, batteries, grinders and eye drops. 2335 Roll Dr., #4, Otay Mesa, 844.665.0420, agreenalternative.org
HARBOR COLLECTIVE
Offers more than 100 strains and a range of CBD products, along with a variety of edibles, extracts and other accessories. 2405 Harbor Dr., Barrio Logan, 619.841.2045, harbormmcc.com
Carries a variety of strains from Bread Farms in Southern California, cartridges, edibles, extracts, pre-rolls, topicals and merchandise. THCSD boasts “twice-tested” products to make sure they’re accurately labeled for potency, use of pesticides and presence of microbial bacteria. “If we won’t use it, we won’t sell it,” the website says. 3703 Camino del Rio South, Mission Valley, 858.324.2420, thcsd.com This dispensary touts customer empowerment by making products available in an open, explorative environment, rather than behind lock and key. Available on site are more than 40 vendors, various strains, extracts, edibles, topicals, grow seeds, pre-rolls and gear. 7128 Miramar Rd., Suite 10, Mira Mesa, 858.247.0953, mankindcoop.com
SOUTHWEST PATIENT GROUP
According to the dispensary website, “From Diego to the Bay, we’ve connected with the best geneticists, indo growers and champion extract artists that the world’s ever known.” Brands carried here include Kiva Confections, Moon Edibles, Alpine, Guerilla Farms, American Flower, Good Stuff Tonics and many more. 658 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.663.6337, southwestpatientgroup.com
THAT’S DOPE
Whether it’s time to chill things out or keep the party going, here are two classic mixes sure to keep heads nodding and eyes glassy. BY SCOTT MCDONALD
SIDE ONE (Indica) Don’t Bogart Me — The Fraternity of Man Legalize It — Peter Tosh Burn One Down — Ben Harper Last Dance With Mary Jane — Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Brown Sugar — D’Angelo How High — Redman & Method Man Weed Song — Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Everybody Must Get Stoned — Cypress Hill The Joker — Steve Miller Band Pass The Dutchie — Musical Youth Let’s Go Get Stoned — Ray Charles Sativa (feat. Swae Lee) — Jhené Aiko
SIDE TWO (Sativa)
TORREY HOLISTICS
Permitted as a medical marijuana dispensary since 2015, Torrey Holistics carries products for all budgets and dietary restrictions, including organic, gluten free, vegan and non-GMO. The dispensary aims to promote education and awareness with one-on-one consultations, as well as through community events and partnerships. 10671 Roselle St., Sorrento Valley, 858.558.1420, torreyholistics.com
THE TREE HOUSE BALBOA
In the space where the Balboa Avenue Cooperative medical cannabis dispensary was located, this shop offers multiple flower varieties, pre-rolls, various accessories including vaporizers, cartridges and rolling papers, Dr. Raw Organics edibles and products, pet products, glass pieces and cleaners, topicals, oils, drinks and more. 8863 Balboa Ave., Ste. E, Kearny Mesa, 858.598.5983
URBN LEAF
A high-end dispensary that focuses on sales of high-quality cannabis, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, CBD oils and infused beverages.
The company’s website notes their knowledgeable staff and provides an online area called “Good Reads” to help educate consumers. The shop opened in March 2017 as a medical cannabis dispensary and recently was voted Best Cannabis Store Atmosphere in the Southern California area in the Dope Magazine Industry Awards. 1028 Buenos Ave., Morena, 619.275.2235, urbnleaf.com
Because I Got High — Afroman Sweet Leaf — Black Sabbath Mary Jane — Rick James Champagne & Reefer — Muddy Waters Marijuana — Kid Cudi Kaya — Bob Marley Purple Haze — Jimi Hendrix Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 — Bob Dylan Hits From The Bong — Cypress Hill Feel Good Hit of the Summer — Queens of the Stone Age Young, Wild & Free (feat. Bruno Mars) — Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa High (feat. Danny Brown) — Freddie Gibbs & Madlib
Editor’s note: As of print time, only a few locations had been granted state licenses, but all city-licensed locations were expected to receive state licenses by Jan. 1. To confirm a location is able to sell recreational marijuana, it is advised to call ahead. San Diego Union-Tribune reporter David Garrick contributed to this story P ETE R TOS H P H OTO BY K EYSTO N E / H U LTO N ARC H IVE /G ETTY I MAG ES; B E N HAR P E R P H OTO BY MATT R O B E RTS/G ETTY I MAG ES; AF R O M MAN P H OTO BY G ETTY I MAG ES; S N O O P D O G G P H OTO BY M I C HAE L KOVAC/G ETTY I MAG ES; B O B MAR LEY P H OTO BY R O G E R STE F F E N S; TO M P ETTY P H OTO BY KAR L WALTE R /G ETTY I MAG ES.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
57
YOU’LL DEFINITELY FEEL RELAXED, PAIN-FREE, HAPPIER, WELL-FED.
GRASS FED
Closed Door Supper Club tags San Diego chefs to whip up five-course THC-infused dinners BY MAYA KROTH
Every few months, in an elegant location somewhere in San Diego, a group of adults gets together for dinner. The men are dressed in slacks and jackets, the women in cocktail dresses and heels, as tasteful lounge music plays softly on the stereo. They are young creatives and retired entrepreneurs whose love of fine food has brought them together for a private dinner prepared by some of the city’s best chefs. But this is no ordinary dinner party. This is the Closed Door Supper Club, a pop-up dinner series where every guest has a medical marijuana card, and every dish incorporates the devil’s lettuce in one form or another. Restaurant industry publicist Marie Tahan Daniels started the Closed Door Supper Club after realizing there was demand for such an event among an unexpected demographic: older, affluent foodies. “It’s not the Cheech and Chong era anymore,” she says. Here’s how it works: Card-carrying guests over the age of 21 can pay around $200 a head for a five-course dinner prepared by a rotating cast of top chefs that has included Hanis Cavin (Carnitas Snack Shack) and Kristianna Zabala (Nomad Donuts). Using pot-infused sugar, oil, butter or flour, they craft a meal with no more than 30 mg of THC: The idea is to stay mellow but in control, not get completely zonked. “Each chef has one course where the THC is optional, like in a sauce that diners can leave off,” Daniels explains. “Everybody is different, so we want to give people the option to slow down if they feel like they need it.” Zabala cooked at the Closed Door in October, preparing a mole brisket tamale with cannabis infused into the sauce and the masa, as well as a roasted beet and Humboldt Fog tart, topped with greens that had been dressed in a cannabis-infused olive oil vinaigrette. “We want people to enjoy the food without being blasted by the fourth course,” says Zabala, who notes that diners can expect more of a chilledout body sensation than a psychoactive head high during these dinners. “You’ll definitely feel relaxed, pain-free, happier, well-fed.” Nobody knows exactly how things will change when the state’s new recreational marijuana law comes into effect this month, but Daniels hopes it might eliminate some of the bureaucratic hoops she has to jump through to make these events happen. “The moment that happens, it’ll make all of this much easier,” she says, adding that she double- and triple-checks all her paperwork to ensure she’s staying on the right side of the (complicated) law. If all goes well, curious diners who’ve been hesitant to register for a medical marijuana card could soon partake in the experience. Both Daniels and Zabala hope the new law helps to change people’s attitudes and lessen the stigma around pot. “Marijuana has given been a very negative stereotype,” says Zabala, who uses medical weed to treat her rheumatoid arthritis. “I like to show people that it can be enjoyed in a grown-up way.” The next Closed Door Supper Club takes place Jan. 27 with farm-to-table chef Miguel Valdez, formerly of the Red Door. See welcometothesupperclub.com for details. P H OTO BY H OWAR D LI P I N
58
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Chefs that are tapped to participate in the Closed Door Supper Club create fivecourse dinners with no more than 30 mg of THC. The goal of these dinners isn’t to get wasted, but to have the cannabis inhance the overall experience.
WHAT’S IN A NAME? 4:20 Ashes Aunt Mary Bo-Bo Broccoli Bubonic Bud Buddha Cannabis Cheeba Cheech & Chong Chiefs Choke Chronic Crip Da Bomb Da kine Dank Dat Good Devil’s lettuce Dona Juanita Dope Draw Dro Dutchie Fire Fruits Ganja Giggle smoke Grass Greens Hash Hay Hooch Herb Indo Kentucky Blue Kind Krippy Kush Loud Marijuana Mary Jane Molta Oregano Pot Puff Puff Pass Reefer Schwag Skunk Smoke Sticky Icky Sweet Tea Trees Wacky Tobacky Weed @PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
59
A CASE OF THE MUNCHIES
P H OTO BY HAYN E PALM O U R IV
5 things to know before getting half baked BY GARY ROBBINS
To the joy and alarm of many, cannabis is being infused in virtually every type of food and drink, from ravioli and BBQ sauce to juices and cider. These cannabis-infused products, known as edibles, have been known to alleviate pain, fight insomnia, boost appetite and just plain give you the giggles, but when misused can cause users to get sick — sometimes violently so. Starting Jan. 1 the legal sale of recreational marijuana, including edibles, will take effect in San Diego, so before heading to a licensed outlet to purchase these snacks, consider the following:
about it than I have for alcohol.”
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
Budtenders, such as Jay Frentsos of Urbn Leaf in Bay Park, generally recommend that a person start with an edible product that has only 5 mg of THC, then wait 30 to 60 minutes to see how it affects them. Experts say 5 mg is roughly equal to one or two puffs off a joint.
New rules implemented in November, which may be adjusted, say that edibles can’t have more than 10 mg of THC per serving, or more than 100 mg per package. The regulations add that “other cannabis products, such as tinctures, capsules and topicals, are limited to a maximum of 1,000 mg per package for the adult-use market and 2,000 mg of THC per package for the medicinal-use market.”
CAN YOU OD?
To date, the use of edible marijuana doesn’t represent a major public health problem. “In comparison to the number of people using it, (overdoses of edibles) are quite small,” said Dr. Richard Clark, a professor of emergency medicine and director of toxicology at UC San Diego Health. “From a public health perspective, I have less concern 60
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE
“The ‘high’ from edibles occurs approximately an hour after ingestion (but can be felt as quickly as 30 minutes), so it’s harder for users, particularly inexperienced ones, to anticipate how they will be affected,” said Dr. Thomas Marcotte, a UC San Diego psychiatrist who also does studies at the university’s Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research.
A LITTLE AT A TIME
WILLPOWER
Many edibles look and smell delicious, and are virtually indistinguishable from what a person could buy at a corner market. The milk chocolate blueberries sold at Urbn Leaf look like Milk Duds. The gummies resemble, well, gummies. And the Kiva chocolate bars could be mistaken for many high-end chocolates. It’s easy to overindulge, so make sure to store edibles away from your normal snack stash, and if you struggle with overeating normal food, think about putting the edibles out of sight after consuming.
SMOOTH AS BUTTER Simple recipes for a creamy introduction into edibles at home
Not ready to dive fork first into a multi-course cannabis meal? No problem. Thanks to a newly published book, The Leafly Guide to Cannabis: A Handbook for the Modern Consumer, edibles can be created in the comfort of a home kitchen. Leafly’s website has become a one stop shop for information about all things cannabis. Due to the high traffic and interest in the content, the handbook was published because its authors believed: “For most of history, cannabis has remained shrouded in code words, mystery and misinformation. It’s time we ended all of that. This book, crafted by our staff of cannabis connoisseurs at Leafly, is your guide to clarity and understanding.” The 228-page book has eight distinct chapters, including a more-than-30-page chapter dedicated to all things edibles complete with a top-10 list of cannabisinfused recipes. Editor’s note: The following recipe is reprinted with permission from the authors of The Leafly Guide to Cannabis. Cannabis-infused butter (cannabutter) is one of the simplest and most common ways to make medicated foods, yet making infused butter properly can be a little tricky. In order for THC to properly decarboxylate — change from its acid form to its psychoactive form — the cannabis must be heated at low temperatures over long periods of time. We recommend simmering your cannabis either on the stove or in a slow cooker at a temperature range of 225⁰F to 250⁰F for a long period of time. This will ensure that your cannabis does not become too hot too quickly and burn off active cannabinoids.
Two variations for making cannabisinfused butter (cannabutter) INGREDIENTS 1 pound unsalted butter 1 cup water (add more water at any time if needed) 1 ounce of ground cannabis flower or 1½ ounces of highquality cannabis trim (this amount will make some pretty potent butter, so decrease the amount of cannabis if you want a recipe that delivers lighter doses) Note: Some people also use the remnants of vaporized cannabis to make cannabutter, as many vaporizers fail to decarboxylate all of the THC in flower. STOVE-TOP METHOD 1. Add butter and water to a stockpot or saucepan; let the butter melt and begin to simmer on low. Adding water helps regulate the temperature and prevents the butter from scorching. 2. As butter begins to melt, add in your ground cannabis product. 3. Maintain low heat and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Make sure the mixture never comes to a full boil. SLOW-COOKER METHOD 1. Turn slow cooker onto low; add butter, water, and ground cannabis flower. 2. Cover slow cooker and let simmer on low for 8 to 24 hours, stirring occasionally. When it comes to infusing butter, the longer you let the cannabis product simmer, the more cannabinoids will be infused into the final product. FOR BOTH METHODS 1. After simmering for your desired amount of time, pour the hot mixture into a glass, refrigerator-safe container, using cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to strain out all plant product from the butter mixture. Squeeze or press the plant material to get as much liquid off of the plant product as possible. Discard leftover plant material. 2. Cover and refrigerate remaining liquid overnight or until the butter is fully hardened. Once hardened, the butter will separate from the water, allowing you to lift the now-infused cannabutter from the water to use in your recipes. Discard remaining water after removing the hardened cannabutter. 3. Let the cannabutter sit at room temperature to soften for use. Do not use microwave to soften the butter.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
61
TASTE EAT | DRINK | PUFF DINING OUT BY PAM KRAGEN
NICK & G’S, RANCHO SANTA FE
Grand Restaurant Group opened this Mediterranean/ Italian restaurant in the former Ponsaty’s space in mid-August. Chef Brian Freerksen’s menu features flatbreads, house-made pastas, steak, pork and seafood dishes. 6106 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.771.8871, nickandgs.com Seared Maine Diver Scallops & Asparagus
ntrez ouveau E N A look at what restaurants invited guests in to finish up 2017 and which will open their doors during the first half of 2018.
62
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
TASTE | DINING
NOW OPEN (OPENING DATES BETWEEN JULY AND DECEMBER 2017) BROOKTOWN FUSION KITCHEN & COFFEE, FALLBROOK This family-run café opened in August, serving a mix of American, Cuban, Thai, French and Cajun dishes. 139 S. Main Ave., Fallbrook 760.645.3891, facebook.com/brooktown139
CEVICHE HOUSE, OLD TOWN
Chef Juan Carlos Récamier continues his upward climb with this seafood concept, which started at a local farmers market in 2014, graduated to a tiny restaurant space in North Park the following year and opened in November in a full-size and full-service restaurant with an expanded menu in Old Town. 2415 San Diego Ave., Old Town 619.795.2438, facebook.com/cevichehouse
CITY TACOS, LA MESA
Gerry Torres, whose restaurants include Tostadas, IB City Tacos and Tiramisu Trattoria, returns to La Mesa with a sister location of the North Park hotspot, City Tacos. Joining forces with Sheldon’s Service Station restaurateur Aaron Dean, the duo expanded the menu with seasonal specialties and kid-friendly “quesitacos.” 8325 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa 619.296.2303, citytacossd.com
COIN OP, GASLAMP QUARTER The cocktail bar/retro arcade, which was featured in the December PACIFIC magazine, opened its second San Diego location last fall in the Gaslamp Quarter. Menu includes pizza and snacks. 789 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.546.6441, coinopgaslamp.com
CLOAK + PETAL, LITTLE ITALY
Cloak + Petal, which was slated for a December opening, serves authentic Japanese fare served in an izakaya-style setting. The 7,500-square-foot location (formerly occupied by Entrada Mexican) has been revamped into a dining room with a crudo and sushi bar and a cocktail bar serving 64
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Japanese beers and sake. 1953 India St., Little Italy 619.292.8898, cloakandpetal.com
DIJA MARA, OCEANSIDE
Globally trained chef Ryan Costanza and owner Rob Jones have collaborated on this Indonesian-inspired restaurant and wine bar. The mid-priced, no-reservation, modernistic dinnerhouse replaced the old 1930s-era Bessie’s 1929 Café. 232 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside 760.231.5376, dijamara.com
DONNA JEAN, BANKERS HILL
Open since August, this homey patio restaurant serves vegan fare seasoned with herbs from its onsite garden, as well as kombucha and beer. It’s named for Chef Roy Elam’s late mother. 2949 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill 619.299.5500, donnajeansd.com
FISHMONGER’S MARKET, MIDDLETOWN
Chef/owner Frank “Frankie the Bull” Terzoli has opened this European-style sustainable fish market and seafood bar inside the 57 Degrees wine retail and storage complex. Menu specialties include lobster salad, Florida grouper sandwiches, paella and maple-glazed Alaskan halibut. 1735 Hancock St., Middletown 619.234.5757, fiftysevendegrees.com
FUNG FUNG YUEN, MIRA MESA
The former Hometown Buffet location has been transformed into an upscale 360-seat dim sum eatery. Vegetable, meat and seafood dumplings are served tableside from rolling carts. The restaurant also serves fresh seafood, Asian beers, sake and cocktails. 10660 Camino Ruiz, Mira Mesa 858.578.8800, fungfungyuen.com
GIARDINO NEIGHBORHOOD CUCINA, LEMON GROVE
Married restaurant veterans Karina Kravalis and Sicilian-born Marco Provino are serving
JALISCO CANTINA, OCEANSIDE
Elevated central-coastal “fresh Mexican” cuisine and tequila-based cocktails are the focus of this restaurant/bar that opened in September. House specialties are mezcal and tequila flights, pozole soup and house ceviche. 213 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside 760.429.1679, thejaliscocantina.com
a menu of wood-fired pizzas, local seafood, house-made pastas and Italian-cured meats and cheeses. 8131 Broadway, Lemon Grove 619.825.7112, giardinosd.com
GOOD SEED FOOD CO., MIRA MESA
Chef Chuy De La Torre has opened this from-scratch kitchen serving house-made breads, noodles, cheeses and more. Good Seed Food Co. shares a space with Serpentine Cider and Lost Cause Meadery. 8665 Miralani Dr., Ste. 100, Mira Mesa 619.323.2056, goodseedfood.com
HAVANA 1920, GASLAMP
Designed to resemble a Cuban speakeasy at the dawn of the Prohibition era, Havana 1920 features classic Cuban dishes by chef Anthony Porras (Cuban sandwiches and ropa vieja) in the 80-seat restaurant/bar and a cocktail menu developed by mixologist Ryan Andrews. A takeout Cuban bakery is located on the ground floor. 584 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.369.1920, havana1920.com
ICMONSTER, KEARNY MESA
Jenna Hu’s Mira Mesa-based Asian-style treat shop opened its second location in November on Convoy. The familyfriendly dessert company sells Thai rolled ice cream made with ingredients that range from Pop Rocks to red beans. 4968 Convoy St., Ste. 105, Kearny Mesa 858.705.4678, facebook.com/icmonster.cafe
Dim Sum: Pork Bao Buns, Lobster Shumai, Vegetable Potstickers, Crispy Fresh Veggie Egg Rolls P H OTO BY J I M S U LLIVAN P H OTO G R AP HY
MONKEY KING, GASLAMP
Harken back to 1920s San Diego with this revival locale, located in the original Monkey King Lottery House. Offering a variety of Asian fusion dishes and a cocktail menu created by renowned mixologists Christian Siglin and Eric Johnson, the Gaslamp location offers lunch to late-night eats for the downtown crowd. 467 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.359.8897, monkeykingsd.com
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
65
TASTE | DINING
NOW OPEN (OPENING DATES BETWEEN JULY AND DECEMBER 2017)
The Meltburger Feast
THE MELT, LA JOLLA
This Bay area sandwich shop chain opened its 13 location in September at La Jolla Village mall. The menu is primarily gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and Angus and Wagyu beef burgers. 8849 Villa La Jolla Dr., Ste. 305, La Jolla, 858.926.7517, themelt.com th
KING & QUEEN CANTINA, LITTLE ITALY
The latest occupant in the space formerly occupied by Bracero Cocina and Romesco Mexiterranean Cocina, King & Queen is owned by Jorge Cueva, who founded Orange County’s Tempo Urban Kitchen. Tempo’s regional Mexican and Latin menu is being served in the Little Italy location. 1490 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy 619.756.7864, kingandqueencantina.com
LAGER SAN DIEGO, GASLAMP QUARTER
This newly opened self-pour tap room 66
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
in Horton Plaza shopping center has 26 craft beers on tap and a menu of gourmet sandwiches, salads and other bar foods. 75 Horton Plaza Dr., #55, Gaslamp 858.210.9305, lagersd.com
LANDON’S GOURMET KITCHEN, SAN MARCOS
Charlynn and Garrett Mann’s moderately priced farm-to-table eatery in Old California Restaurant Row is believed to be the first restaurant in San Diego with onsite supervised babysitting (it’s named for the Manns’ 6-yearold son, Landon). Chef Christophe Douheret’s menu is a mix of American, French and Middle
P H OTO BY M E LI S SA D E MATA
Eastern cuisines. 1020 W. San Marcos Blvd., San Marcos 760.509.2287, landonsgourmetkitchen.com
MARETALIA RISTORANTE, CORONADO
Blue Bridge Hospitality has taken over the former Vigilucci’s restaurant in Coronado and given it a new name and look. Florentine chef Marco Sedda has stayed on and refreshed the menu with a modern coastal Italian vibe. 1300 Orange Ave., Ste. 200, Coronado, 619.522.0946, bluebridgehospitality.com/maretalia
TASTE | DINING
NOW OPEN (OPENING DATES BETWEEN JULY AND DECEMBER 2017)
MINOU CREPERIE, EAST VILLAGE From the owners of Café Chloe comes this equally charming creperie and patisserie around the corner. The petite menu features seasonal sweet and savory crepes, pastries and sandwiches. 721 Eighth Ave., East Village 619.391.7587, minoucreperie.com
NOMAD DONUTS & BAGELS, NORTH PARK
The second location of Brad Keiller’s popular Normal Heights artisan bakery has customer seating and an expanded menu that includes wood-fired bagels and, soon, beer and wine service. 3102 University Ave., North Park 619.431.5000, nomaddonuts.com
NONNA, LITTLE ITALY
The latest restaurant offering from San Diego’s Busalacchi family, Nonna serves the family’s Italian comfort food classics (chicken Parmesan, past Bolognese) prepared by chefs Nino Zizzo and Joe Busalacchi. The family’s adjacent Italian bakery, Cafe Zucchero, has been incorporated into Nonna’s newly renovated space. 1735 India St., Little Italy, 619.531.1731, nonnasd.com
The top-selling Shaking Beef dish
PARACHUTE BRUNCH & SUPPER ROOM, LA JOLLA This elevated American brunch and dinnerhouse is a reimagining of the former StreetCar Merchants fried chicken shop at that location. Chef Matthew Cranert’s eclectic menu still features StreetCar-style doughnuts and fried chicken, but adds burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, salads and plated entrees. 811 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.291.8191, parachutelajolla.com
PISCO ROTISSERIE & CEVICHERIA, LIBERTY STATION AND CARLSBAD
Sami Ladeki, founder of Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza chain, launched this Peruvian restaurant concept over the summer at Liberty Station’s Public Market. Pisco has a rotisserie and ceviche-centric menu developed by Emmanuel Piqueras, a chef and Peruvian cooking show producer. The first location opened in Point Loma’s Liberty Station in the summer of 2017, with a second location scheduled to open in December at the former Sammy’s location in Carlsbad. Liberty Station: 2401 Truxton Rd., Ste. 102, 619.222.3111; Carlsbad: 5790 Avenida Encinas, piscorotisserie.com
POKE 1-2-3, LIBERTY STATION OPEN HOUSE FOOD + DRINK, ENCINITAS
Encinitas restaurateur Wade Hageman converted the former El Callejon taqueria into a multiconcept 4-in-1 dining destination this past fall. Chef Marlaw Seraspi overseas the Crafty Egg (breakfast/brunch), Asian Kitchen (poke, ramen and wok dishes), Driftwood Tavern (beachy bar, burgers and flatbreads) and Saltwater (pop-up weekend tequila and raw bar). 345 S. Coast Highway, Encinitas, 760.452.2555, openhousefooddrink.com 68
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
This quick-service poke shop, scheduled to open in December, offers traditional seafood bowls, as well as chicken and vegan options served in choice of bowls, nori-wrapped burritos and tacos. 2400 Historic Decatur Rd., Ste. 107, Liberty Station, poke123usa.com
Our Pacific Beach Location is
NOW OPEN! 4465 MISSION BLVD, SAN DIEGO, CA 92109 |
breakfastrepublicsd | Breakfastrepublic | breakfastrepublic.com
TASTE | DINING
SALT & STRAW, LITTLE ITALY
Portland’s ultra-popular 7-year-old scoop shop chain opened its first San Diego location in mid-December. The ice cream shops are famous for the long lines that form for scoops of honey lavender, sea salt with caramel ribbons, peppermint cocoa and many other unique flavors. 1670 India St., Little Italy, saltandstraw.com
RENEGADE, UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS
This retro ’80s-style food window opened in the fall at Park & Rec neighborhood bar. The window, now open evenings only, is a collaboration with next-door restaurant Madison on Park and serves poke nachos, burgers, grilled sandwiches and other quickservice items. 4612 Park Blvd., University Heights 619.795.9700, parkandrecsd.com
ROMA URBAN MARKET, LITTLE ITALY
This long-anticipated Italian delicatessen debuted in September, offering imported Italian grocery items and wines, a sandwich 70
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
bar, bakery and pizzeria. 555 W. Beech St., Little Italy 619.255.5700, romaurbanmarket.com
SAN TELMO ARGENTINE CAFÉ, GASLAMP QUARTER
Argentineans Fabricio and Pamela Prencesvalle have opened this casual café serving empenadas, sandwiches, pork dishes, pastries, desserts and more. 531 Broadway, Gaslamp facebook.com/SanTelmoArgentineCafe
SNOOZE: AN AM EATERY, LA JOLLA
Blazing trails in breakfast, Denver-based duo Jon and Adam Schlegel open up their 24th
location in the newly revamped La Jolla Village amongst Whole Foods and Mendocino Farms. With 12 Months of Green and 90% of waste in compost and recycling, Snooze paves the way for responsible restaurateuring. 8861 Villa La Jolla Dr., Ste. 509, La Jolla 858.483.5556, snoozeeatery.com
STEAMY PIGGY, KEARNY MESA
Serving up made-from-scratch dumplings, noodles, and “piggy”-inspired dishes, this fresh and modern locale appeals to the hip crowd. Look for the lychee green tea, Nutella dumplings and a piggy wall for Instagram and Snapchat shots. 4681 Convoy St., Ste. A, Kearny Mesa 858.492.0401, steamypiggy.com
NOW OPEN (OPENING DATES BETWEEN JULY AND DECEMBER 2017)
STELLA PUBLIC HOUSE AND HALCYON, SAN MARCOS
This dual dining concept, first introduced in East Village in 2015, opened in October in the North City development near Cal State San Marcos. Halcyon is a breakfast/lunch/coffeehouse/cocktail/ late-night bites spot. Stella Public House serves lunch, dinner and weekend brunch with a house specialty of wood-fired pizzas. Halcyon Coffee Bar, North City Block C, 250 N. City Dr., Ste. 1, San Marcos, 760.798.8340, halcyoncoffeebar.com Stella Public House, North City Block C, 250 N. City Dr., Ste. 3, San Marcos, 760.798.8350, stellapublichouse.com
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
71
TASTE | DINING
NOW OPEN (OPENING DATES BETWEEN JULY AND DECEMBER 2017)
WEST PAC NOODLE BAR, CORONADO
Blue Bridge Hospitality’s culinary tribute to San Diego’s naval history features the cuisine of eight Pacific Rim countries. It was set to open in December. 1166 Orange Ave., Coronado, westpacnoodle.com
TEMP BY COSECHA, CHULA VISTA
Chef Steve Brown’s farm-driven modern American 40-seat restaurant offers midpriced dinner service Tuesdays-Saturdays, a boozy brunch on weekends and periodic Cosecha fine-dining, multicourse pop-up dinners every other Sunday night. 277 Third Ave., Chula Vista 619.737.5470, chefstevebrown.com
72
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
TOPSIDE TERRACE KITCHEN & BAR AND TRADE, DOWNTOWN
San Diego’s The Patio Group is operating these two new restaurant/bar concepts in the Hotel Republic San Diego, a boutique inn that opened in November. The third-floor terrace restaurant/ bar Topside has an everything-made-in-house, farm-to-table menu. Trade is the 57-seat lobby cocktail bar, serving a seafood-centric lunch and dinner menu. 421 W. B St., downtown 619.398.3100, hotelrepublicsd.com
WHEN PIGS FLY, VISTA
Dale and Tommy Ginos, who have run their award-winning barbecue restaurant for the past four years at a Chevron gas station in North Vista, were scheduled to relocate their eatery in December to a newly renovated storefront in Vista Village. 230 Main St., Vista 760.945.7828, whenpigsflybbq.com
A healthier more happy you is just a few clicks away... ORGANIC VEGETABLES
fresh meat
aromatic spices
1
2 Fully cooked & 3 100% Satisfaction 40 healthy international delivered fresh Guaranteed & meals to choose weekly Delivery is always from free! Get your next 5 meals FREE. Use code: EATWELL-1 from our website: freshandfitmeals.com
nutritious grains
TASTE | DINING
OPENING 2018 (SCHEDULED TO OPEN BETWEEN JANUARY AND SUMMER) AN’S DRY CLEANING
This spring, the historic dry cleaning store will be transformed into an artisan gelato shop, but it will retain its retro name. Seven flavors of fresh-made sweet and savory gelato will rotate daily, with ingredients like gorgonzola, cactus and wasabi flowers in the mix. 3017 Adams Ave., North Park, adcgelato.com
THE BELL MARKER BREWERY & KITCHEN, DOWNTOWN
The Artisanal Brewers Collective has named this 200-seat American brasserie and craft brewery after the famous Mission bells along El Camino Real. The menu features pizza and modern California cuisine. A winter opening is planned. 602 Broadway, downtown, thebellmarker.com
BETTER BUZZ COFFEE, HILLCREST
San Diego-based Better Buzz, with seven retail outlets countywide and a roasting warehouse in Vista, expands this winter with a 7,500-square-foot retail/office center in Hillcrest. The ground floor will be a coffee bar and special events space and the upstairs will serve as Better Buzz’s new headquarters. 801 University Ave., Hillcrest betterbuzzcoffee.com
BREAKFAST REPUBLIC, CARLSBAD AND PACIFIC BEACH In the spring, Rise & Shine Restaurant Group will open the eighth location of this brunch-centric restaurant chain at The Shoppes at Carlsbad shopping mall. The Shoppes at Carlsbad 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad 4465 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.750.2107, breakfastrepublic.com
CHLOE AT SCOUT, EAST VILLAGE This winter, the owners of Café Chloe will open a European-style catering and special events venue serving French Provencal food, wines and garden-inspired cocktails. 2675 Rosecrans St., Liberty Station cafechloe.com 74
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
BLUE WATER SEAFOOD MARKET & GRILL, OCEAN BEACH
Brothers Matt and Judd Braun will open the second location of their Mission Hills-born seafood eatery this spring in Ocean Beach. They plan to update the location with a new stage for live music. 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ste. B, Ocean Beach, bluewaterseafoodsandiego.com
CIAO PLAZA, VISTA
The 20-year-old north Vista restaurant is building a massive 10,000-square-foot expansion at its current location, with plans for completion later this winter. The 300seat location will add a bakery, deli, gelateria, enoteca and large banquet hall. 2015 E. Vista Way, Vista 760.630.7333, ciao2.com
DON CHIDO, GASLAMP QUARTER The 3-year-old modern Mexican eatery shuttered in November for an overhaul that will finish up later this winter. Owner RMD Group says the new Don Chido will be more nightlife-focused with an elevated lounge, music, dance floor and improved menu featuring craft tacos by Chef Andre Alto. 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.8226, donchido.com
EL JARDIN, LIBERTY STATION
Current Top Chef competitor Claudette Zepeda-Wilkins (formerly of Bracero Cucina) is developing the menu for this latest entry from Johan Engman’s Rise & Shine Restaurant Group. Zepeda-Wilkins, who grew up on both sides of the Mexican border, is planning a contemporary, refined take on regional Mexican cuisine in a colorfully decorated indoor/outdoor space. It’s scheduled for an early 2018 opening. 2885 Perry Rd., Liberty Station riseandshinerg.com
EMPANADA KITCHEN, DOWNTOWN
This popular Argentinean empanada vendor at the North Park and La Jolla farmers markets will open its first fast-casual storefront this winter. 819 C St., downtown 619.988.7265, empanada-kitchen.com
VISIT ONE OF OUR 7 LOCATIONS: TAJIMA EAST VILLAGE | TAJIMA NORTH PARK | TAJIMA HILLCREST TAJIMA CONVOY | TAJIMA MERCURY | TAJIMA LONG BEACH | TAJIMA TIJUANA
TAJIMASANDIEGO.COM
/TAJIMARESTAURANTS
@TAJIMARESTAURANTS
@TAJIMASANDIEGO
TASTE | DINING
POINT LOMA FISH SHOP, POINT LOMA
Billy Ramirez will open the fourth location of his 8-year-old Fish Shop casual seafood chain this winter in Point Loma. Like the other locations, the eatery will serve a variety of fresh-caught seafood in soups, sandwiches and grilled platters. 1110 Rosecrans St., Ste. 100, Point Loma, facebook.com/plfishshop
76
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
OPENING 2018 (SCHEDULED TO OPEN BETWEEN JANUARY AND SUMMER)
FROST ME CAFÉ & BAKERY, LITTLE ITALY
Frost Me Gourmet, the Seaport Village cupcake shop that came up a winner on Food Network’s ninth season of Cupcake Wars, will open its second shop this winter in Little Italy. Located on Little Italy’s new pedestrian Piazza della Famiglia, the outlet will serve desserts, sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards, coffee drinks, beer and wine. 523 W. Date St., Little Italy frostmegourmet.com
GRUBBY’S POKE & FISH MARKET, CARLSBAD
This new concept from the owners of Señor Grubby’s will feature poke bowls, fresh fish entrees and locally-caught sushi-grade fish sold by the pound. The Shoppes at Carlsbad 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad grubbyspoke.com
HARU MAMA, LITTLE ITALY
This winter, Jenny and James Pyo, who own Love Boat Sushi, Pokewan and several other local Asian eateries, will open this contemporary ramen bar, featuring steamed buns, bowls, noodle dishes and salads. 1901 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.564.8970
THE KITCHEN, RANCHO BERNARDO
Bernardo Winery owner Ross Rizzo Jr. will open this Italian-American wine-themed restaurant on the winery property in the spring. Rizzo’s restaurant will use recipes that have been in his family since the 1920s. The Kitchen replaces Café Merlot, which was set to close on Dec. 31. 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, Rancho Bernardo 858.487.1866, bernardowinery.com
LOLA 55, EAST VILLAGE
Owner Frank Vizcarra and Chef Drew Bent are planning an early spring opening for this fine/fast-casual restaurant serving a Mexicaninspired healthy menu of gourmet tacos with a full bar program. 1290 F St., East Village, lola55catering.com
LUCHA LIBRE TACO SHOP #3, CARLSBAD Brothers Jose Luis, Maurilio and Diego Rojana-Garcia bring their secret chipotle
MAVERICKS BEACH CLUB, PACIFIC BEACH
The former PB Bar & Grill is being remodeled and will reopen this winter as a 15,000-square-foot restaurant and bar. 860 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, maverickssd.com
sauce, Surfin’ Cali burrito and TJ Dog to a third location, this time in North County. Located at the newly remodeled Shoppes at Carlsbad mall, lovers of the Lucha can devour a variety of gourmet tacos and shop for Luchado-inspired gear. The Shoppes at Carlsbad 2525 El Camino Real, Ste. 218-C, Carlsbad tacosmackdown.com
MAESTOSO, HILLCREST
Celebrated New York chef Marco Maestoso will partner with Dalila Ercolani and local Italian ex-pats Christopher Antinucci and Giulia Colmignoli (owners of the Napizza chain) to open a 90-seat modern Italian restaurant this winter in The Hub Hillcrest Market. Maestoso’s four-part menu will feature pinsa (an ancient form of pizza), build-your-own pasta dishes, traditional plated entrees and a chef ’s whim option called passaggi. 1040 University Ave., Hillcrest, casamaestoso.it
MENYA ULTRA RAMEN
With a popular Clairemont Mesa location (8199 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., 858.571.2010) under its belt, the home of the “best ramen in America” by Andrew Zimmern opens up a new outpost in Mira Mesa. Delectable
house-made noodles and broth bring crowds in droves, with expansion plans including a central kitchen and third location by the close of 2018. 8141 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa menya-ultra.com
MONZU FRESH PASTA, EAST VILLAGE
Italians Aldo de Dominicis Rotondi and Serena Romano are planning a restaurant/retail pasta shop in East Village later this winter. A wide range of house-made, fresh pastas will be made daily, along with a variety of sauces from different regions of Italy. 455 Tenth Ave., East Village monzufreshpasta.com
PARANA EMPANADAS, WESTFIELD UTC
This family-owned company, offering Argentinian empanadas developed from family recipes, will open its second storefront this winter at Westfield UTC. The family project started in farmers markets around San Diego then expanded to its location at Liberty Public Market. Westfield UTC, 4545 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla, paranaempanadas.com @PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
77
TASTE | DINING
OPENING 2018 (SCHEDULED TO OPEN BETWEEN JANUARY AND SUMMER)
PARK COMMONS, SORRENTO VALLEY
Whisknladle Hospitality is taking over the former San Diego Tech Center building to create a 10,000-square-foot food hall and event space. Chef Ryan Johnston will oversee the multi-concept food stations that will serve salads, Middle Eastern wraps, street tacos, poke, sandwiches and coffee, plus an evening bar. A summer opening is projected. The Park, 9645 Scranton Road, Sorrento Valley, whisknladle.com
PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL, EAST VILLAGE
In March, a Colorado-based “eatertainment” chain plans to launch Punch Bowl Social, a 24,000-square-foot restaurant, bar, bowling alley, karaoke hall and game arcade in East Village. The menu will be Southern-inspired and created by Hugh Acheson, celebrity chef and cookbook author. The Denver Punch Bowl Social menu includes dishes like pot roast, Kobe beef franks, lobster bacon fries and OMFG Southern Fried Chicken. 15th and E Sts., East Village punchbowlsocial.com
QUEENSTOWN BISTRO, WESTFIELD UTC
This winter, the owners of Queenstown Public House in Little Italy will open Queenstown Bistro (formerly known as Arbor), serving wine and craft beer, shareable plates and organic sandwiches and burgers for lunch and dinner. Westfield UTC 4545 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla 619.546.0444, queenstownbistro.com
RAISED BY WOLVES, WESTFIELD UTC
This winter, CH Projects will open this $2 million spirits-themed retail shop and speakeasy-style cocktail tasting room at Westfield UTC mall. The shop will offer a 1,500-square-foot shop selling books, barware and CH-branded products with a hidden cocktail bar for onsite tastings. Westfield UTC 4545 La Jolla Village Dr., Ste. 4301, La Jolla consortiumholdings.com
RAISING CANE’S, VISTA
San Diego County’s first Raising Cane’s 78
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
SISTERS PIZZA, BANKERS HILL
Emily Green will open an East Coast-style pizzeria this spring in a former beauty salon space in Bankers Hill. It’s named for her late sister, Kate, who died in 2016. Chef Alex Carballo (former chef/owner URBN Coal Fired Pizza) is helping Green develop the menu, which will include pastas, salads, sandwiches and more. 3603 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 858-228-6822, sisterspizzasd.com
chicken fingers outlet will open this year in Vista Village. The drive-thru fast-food eatery will replace the shuttered Famous Dave’s barbecue restaurant. 303 Vista Village Drive, Vista raisingcanes.com
RIO CHURRASCARIA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE, SAN MARCOS
This Brazil-inspired restaurant specializes in charcoal-grilled meats as part of a 20-item buffet. It replaces the shuttered Elephant Bar restaurant in Grand Plaza later this winter. 105 S. Las Posas Rd., San Marcos
TEXAS DE BRAZIL, CARLSBAD
This Brazilian-style churrascaria will open in late 2018 in The Shoppes at Carlsbad mall. The 20-year-old Texas-based chain’s restaurants serve all-you-can-eat grilled and roasted meats served tableside. The Shoppes at Carlsbad 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad texasdebrazil.com
WAYS & MEANS OYSTER HOUSE, LA JOLLA
This spring, the Orange County restaurant company will open its first San Diego County location in the former Alfonso’s space in La Jolla. Ways & Means, with outlets in Huntington Beach and Tigard, Ore., is known for its vast menu of fresh raw oysters, including a brand of its own. 1251 Prospect St., La Jolla, wmoysters.com
WOKCANO, CARLSBAD
The L.A.-based chain will open its first San Diego location later this winter in The Shoppes at Carlsbad shopping mall. The Asian fusion restaurant offers a contemporary take on Japanese and Chinese cuisine, including sushi, sashimi, noodle dishes and Asian-inspired cocktails. The Shoppes at Carlsbad 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad wokcanorestaurant.com Jeanette Steele and Laurie Delk contributed to this story.
TASTE THAT’S PURE GOLD. Serve responsibly™. Modelo Especial® Beer. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL.
@MODELOUSA
AFFORDABLE SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT
ALL HOME GAMES AT Â VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER, SAN DIEGO
#99 MATT CLARE
$2 NIGHT
TASTE | BEER P H OTO BY JAM I E S C OTT LYLE
Take it from the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here BY PETER ROWE
The New Year brings a new president to the San Diego Brewers Guild: Paul Sangster, co-owner of San Marcos’ Rip Current Brewing. Before he takes the reins, PACIFIC sat down with him to get the inside scoop on what’s to come in 2018 for the San Diego craft beer world. PACIFIC: As we enter 2018, what’s the state of San Diego’s beer union? PAUL SANGSTER: It is amazing to see how many new breweries have joined the fold during 2017 and are adding to our culture, bringing excitement and engaging new customers. It’s hard to believe we’ll soon have 160 breweries. When Rip Current Brewing opened in late 2012, there were only 70 breweries. What’s the state of the San Diego Brewers Guild? The Brewers Guild is stronger than ever. We plan to host a number of amazing beer events showcasing the best beers from our members. We are also launching programs to help consumers identify products from small and independent breweries. We believe they have the right to know (where their beer comes 82
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
from), so they can decide where their hard-earned dollars are going — Belgium, South America or right down the street in San Diego. Today, this is challenging with so many brands served around town. Compared to 2017, will 2018 see more or fewer breweries open across the county? Why? We expect to see continued expansion — at least a dozen new breweries or satellite tasting rooms are already in progress. It is hard to predict whether 2018 will eclipse the roughly 29 new independent breweries that opened in San Diego County in 2017. If I had to guess, I would say the number will be closer to 2016’s total, 20. What’s the biggest challenge facing local independent breweries this year? How should they meet that challenge? With so many breweries and beer brands in the San Diego marketplace, it’s difficult to stand out in the crowd. San Diego brewers need to find a way to distinguish their products, to establish brand loyalty with customers. We hope our ever-increasing focus on beer quality and community outreach will be part of this strategy. Local restaurants and markets carry a broad range of beers, both domestic and foreign. Given all these choices, why should consumers make an effort to buy beer made by Guild members? Many craft beer drinkers want their dollars to support neighbors and friends in their own communities, rather than stockholders abroad. Independent San Diego breweries make the best beer around. We want to give the buyer every chance to identify it on the shelf and revel in being part of the Capital of Craft’s amazing beer community.
THIS BUD’S FOR YOU … OR IS IT?
TASTE | BEER
Federal laws prohibit the use of marijuana in beer
LET’S GO TO THE HOPS
January beer events in San Diego P H OTO BY GAB R I E L TIAN O
JAN. 13, 1-4 P.M. SAN DIEGO BREW FESTIVAL Another year, another — why not? — beer fest. Head to Liberty Station, where 70 breweries will pour 150 beers. Enjoy classics from veterans like Anchor and New English, but don’t overlook newcomers like Carlsbad’s Rouleur and La Mesa’s Helix. Admission starts at $45. Ingram Plaza at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd., Liberty Station sandiegobeerfest.com
JAN. 27, 5-8 P.M. KARL STRAUSS CHANGING OF THE BARRELS The $55 admission includes food (salads, sliders and sausages from Mastiff), drink (more than 25 specialty brews from Karl), live music, souvenir glass and — wait, there’s more! — a 22-ounce bottle of the brewery’s 29th anniversary beer. Karl Strauss Tasting Room 5985 Santa Fe St., Pacific Beach karlstrauss.com/events/ changing-of-the-barrels
Not coming soon to a tap handle near you: beerijuana. While the sale of recreational marijuana became legal in California on Jan. 1, weed is still illegal under federal law. That’s a key distinction for brewers, as beer ingredients are regulated by the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. “All breweries need a federal permit to manufacture alcohol,” said Candace Moon, a San Diego lawyer who represents craft breweries. Pot-infused beer “is not going to be legal until it’s legal federally.” For decades, though, brewers have worked within the law to develop beers that mimic marijuana’s aromas and flavors. Pizza Port’s Chronic Ale, for instance, was originally brewed with toasted hemp seeds, hemp being a member of the cannabis family. Hops, the vine-grown flowers that add aroma and flavor to beer, contain terpenes — a chemical compound — identical to those found in marijuana. Thorn Street’s O.G. HighPA took advantage of that fact. “We used some of the terpenes found in cannabis,” said Thomas Kiely, Thorn Street’s director of sales and marketing. “There was nothing psychoactive or medicinal about them. It pretty much mimicked the flavor, but with none of the ‘fun stuff.’” Since terpenes occupy a spot on the current list of federally-approved beer ingredients, there already exists a stash of marijuana-like beers — shall we call these brews “bud light”? These include Oskar Blues Pinner Throwback IPA, Humboldt Hemp Ale and Dank & Sticky IPA. That last beer? It’s part of a Port Brewing series dubbed The Hop Concept (THC). Judging by the questions Moon’s been fielding lately, though, some expect a thirst for honest-to-ganja blunt beer. PACIFIC: Can a marijuana company buy beer and then infuse it with pot? CANDACE MOON: You can’t do that. Can breweries operate a marijuana dispensary on the side? A beer manufacturer cannot be a marijuana manufacturer, or vice versa. Can breweries host a beer-and-marijuana pairing event? On the manufacturer’s premises it won’t be allowed. I do think on a third party’s premises you could do it. It seems in this budding relationship, there are going to be more questions than answers. “I think there’s going to be a lot of trial and error,” Moon said.
84
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Catch The bowl games with us! award-winning Burgers Over 150 + BEErs 20 + HDTVS
322 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 619.546.9292 COLDBEERS.COM
TASTE | DRINK
Nice & Toasty
A cheers to legal weed with Madison on Park’s cannabis-infused cocktail BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
Any stoners worth their salt have seen Dave Chappelle’s 1998 cult classic, Half Baked, at least a dozen times ... though they might not remember the first 11 viewings. In the film, a trio of best buds sell some killer weed under the brand “Mr. Nice Guy” in an effort to raise enough money to bail their fourth friend out of jail for inadvertently killing a diabetic police horse. And while Madison on Park’s Mr. Nice Guy cocktail might not make you levitate like the movie’s ganja, the cannabis-infused cocktail is an ideal cure for cottonmouth that’s certain to deliver you to an elevated state of mind. Dreamt up by Danny Kuehner, Madison’s bar manager, the Mr. Nice Guy is crafted with mezcal, matcha, pineapple, lime, coconut milk and cannabidiol (CBD) oil. “I created it in honor of (famed PBS painter) Bob Ross,” says Kuehner, “and most patrons
begin singing A Whole New World after their first sip.” The venue’s first cannabis concoction, the tropical cocktail has hints of citrus and a robust flavor profile. And though the CBD oil doesn’t have the same psychoactive side effects as its cousin, THC, the cold-pressed elixir offers a host of claimed medicinal benefits, including mood elevation and lowered anxiety. It’s even been reported to kill some cancer cells. So the next time you want to enjoy some of Mary Jane’s non-psychotropic benefits, skip pals Billy Bong Thornton and Wesley Pipes and head to Madison on Park for a Mr. Nice Guy instead.
MOST PATRONS BEGIN SINGING A WHOLE NEW WORLD AFTER THEIR FIRST SIP. —DANNY KUEHNER (MADISON’S BAR MANAGER)
Madison on Park 4622 Park Blvd., University Heights 619.269.6566, madisononpark.com P H OTOS BY ALEJAN D R O TAMAYO
86
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
87
VOTED BEST PLACE TO GET A MASSAGE 2017 SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT
WALK IN. FLOAT OUT. 1 HR RELAXATION MASSAGE
$59 (reg. $75)
SIGNATURE ORGANIC FACIAL
$69 (reg. $89)
Must mention this ad or show a phone snapshot of this ad for discount.
www.theknotstop.com | 619.296.KNOT (5668) Offer good through March 31, 2017. One per person. Does not apply to gift certificate purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers/discounts and does not apply to Side-by-Side massages. Can be used towards a Lead Therapist massage but additional lead fee applies.
NOW OPEN 3000 Upas Street, San Diego, 92104 www.letstaco.com
GROOVE MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE SOUND DECISIONS BY SCOTT MCDONALD
1.19
@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Singer, songwriter and musician Jake Smith has performed as The White Buffalo for the last 15 years. Smith’s latest album, Darkest Darks, Lightest Lights, was released last October.
90
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
THE PERFECT VENUE FOR... FUNDRAISERS URBAN WEDDINGS F E B R U A R Y 2 ND
C O R P O R AT E E V E N T S BIRTHDAY PARTIES REUNIONS
C o n t a c t O u r P r i v a t e E v e n t s Te a m a t Events@MusicBoxSD.com | 619-738-0736
1337 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 | 619.795.1337 |
cdfl MusicBoxSD | www.MusicBoxSD.com
GROOVE
Sound Decisions January Concert Calendar BY SCOTT MCDONALD
1.13
@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Chicago-based hip-hopper and multiinstrumentalist released her second album (and major-label debut), Every Where Is Some Where, last April. It’s nominated for a pair of Grammys at the end of the month.
92
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 1.4 T.S.O.L @ Casbah, casbahmusic.com
Last in San Diego as part of 2017’s Vans Warped Tour, the long-running Orange County punks return to The Casbah’s cozy confines. Love Canal, Authentic Sellout and Audio Addiction open the show.
1.5 WARREN G & DJ QUIK @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego
West Coast hip-hop legends join forces for a history lesson of the genre. More than a nostalgia run, Quik and fellow Compton rapper Problem dropped the Rosecrans LP last year.
1.8 MILKY CHANCE @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego
German folk duo Milky Chance (Clemens Rehbein and Philipp Dausch) released their
second studio album, Blossom, last year. It is their first with guitarist/multi-instrumentalist Antonio Greger, who has played with the pair since 2015.
1.12 KARL DENSON’S TINY UNIVERSE @ Belly Up, bellyup.com
Local jazz godfather takes a break from playing with The Greyboy Allstars, Slightly Stoopid and The Rolling Stones to get a few shows in with his namesake crew. Dig it.
1.14 WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE @ California Center for the Arts, Escondido, artcenter.org
The country superstar released her eighth studio album, Wynonna & The Big Noise, in 2016. It featured collaborations with Susan Tedeschi, Jason Isbell, and Derek Trucks, and was her first album of original material in 13 years.
1.15 BLACK REBEL MOTORCYCLE CLUB @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego
1.14 LUNA @ Casbah, casbahmusic.com
Last year was a big one for the dream pop vets. They released a covers LP, A Sentimental Education, as well as A Place of Greater Safety, a 6-track EP of instrumentals. Eleanor Friedberger opens the show.
The San Francisco rock trio releases their eighth studio album, Wrong Creatures, on Vagrant Records this month. Two new singles, Little Thing Goes Wild and Haunt, are out now. Night Beats opens the show.
1.21
@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com Sonic Youth’s Kim Gordon teams with guitarist Bill Nace for another project drenched in feedback and drone. Their latest, the 3-song No Waves, was released on Matador Records at the end of 2016.
94
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
PIZZA•SALAD•WINGS
1 3 4 9 0 PA C I F I C H I G H L A N D S R A N C H P KW Y, S A N D I E G O, C A 9 2 1 3 0 | P H RV I L L A G E .C O M @ V I L L A G E AT PA C I F I C H I G H L A N D S R A N C H T H E V I L L A G E AT PA C I F I C H I G H L A N D S R A N C H
F O L L OW U S
P LES &
NOOD
OURS
GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 1.15 KRIS KRISTOFFERSON @ Belly Up, bellyup.com
The Oxford grad, songwriter of Me and Bobby McGee, Golden Globe winner and Country Music Hall of Famer picked up a Grammy Award nomination for his 2016 release, The Cedar Creek Sessions. He also sold out this show in advance.
1.16 BUCK-O-NINE @ Casbah, casbahmusic.com
San Diego’s own ska vets once again get down at the Casbah as they move closer to their 30th year together. Formed in the same year, friends and fellow ska punks Mustard Plug open the show.
1.18 BIG BOI @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com
The Atlanta-based rapper, producer, actor and half of seminal hip-hop duo Outkast released his third studio album, Boomiverse,
last year. It features collaborations with Killer Mike, Jeezy and Adam Levine. The Cool Kids open the show.
1.19 MYKAL ROSE @ Belly Up, bellyup.com
Former original Black Uhuru vocalist, Mykal Rose has gone on to release more than 30 albums under his own name. The Grammywinning Jamaican singer’s last release, Crucial World, came out in 2014.
John Maus is a former philosophy professor and holds a Ph.D in political science. Maus released his fourth full-length album, Screen Memories, last October, and is scheduled to release his fifth, Addendum, soon.
1.29 DVSN @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com
1.23 WOLF PARADE
Canadian R&B duo dvsn, singer Daniel Daley and longtime Drake producer Nineteen85 (Paul Jeffries), released their second studio album, Morning After, last October.
@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com
1.31 JOHN WILLIAMS
After a five-year hiatus, the Canadian indie rockers reunited in 2016 and released their fourth full-length album, Cry Cry Cry, last October. last October.
1.29 JOHN MAUS @ Belly Up, bellyup.com
Minnesota singer, musician and composer
@ Copley Symphony Hall, sandiegosymphony.org
Jaws? Star Wars? Indiana Jones? Harry Potter? Yes, it’s that John Williams. And, of course, this special performance by the composer, conductor, pianist, multiple Grammy/Academy Award-winner and Kennedy Center honoree is long sold out.
1.24
@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com The Ohio-based singer-songwriter released her fourth studio album, Sorry Is Gone, last September. Produced by John Agnello (Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.), the deeply personal album is based on Mayfield’s own abusive marriage and the steps she had to take to leave the relationship.
96
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
P H OTO BY E B R U MAYF I E LD
SAN DIEGO’S MOST CONVENIENT DISPENSARY
CALL: 619-268-8035 HOURS: MON-SUN DELIVERY: 7AM-7:30PM WALKIN: 7AM-9PM 3452 HANCOCK STREET SAN DIEGO, CA 92110
GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS
1.27
@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com St. Vincent, aka Grammy-winning songwriter and musician Annie Clark, returns to San Diego with new album, Masseducation, under her belt. Clark brings her Fear the Future Tour to the Observatory for this all-ages show.
P H OTO BY N E D DA AFSAR I
98
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
“ yo u r w e d d i n g p h o t o s should never go out of style”
Happy Ne w Year! To a b e a u t i f u l 2 018 !
San Diego - Orange County - Los Angeles
w w w. wa l t e r w i l s o n s t u d i o s . c o m
GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 1.30
@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com These Las Vegas indie rockers return to San Diego after releasing their fifth studio album, Wonderful Wonderful, last September. It is the band’s first-ever U.S. No. 1 album. P H OTO BY ANTO N C O R B IJ N
100
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
GROOVE
Spin Cycle
January EDM and DJ performances
DOCTOR P
BY SCOTT MCDONALD
1.20
@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The English DJ has done remixes for the likes of Britney Spears, Ed Sheeran, Dillon Francis, Datsik and others. Most recently, the 31-year-old dubstep producer (real name Shaun Brockhurst) remixed his own 2015 single, Business (feat. Far East Movement).
102
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
P H OTO BY D I M ITR I OS KAM B O U R I S/G ETTY I MAG ES
1.5 ARDALAN B2B WORTHY
1.19 R3HAB
@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com
@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com
Iran-born/San Francisco-based Dirtybird DJ Ardalan released the 2-song Fantastic Planet EP with Christian Martin last month. He plays back-to-back with fellow Dirtybirder Worthy.
The Dutch House DJ R3HAB (aka Fadil El Ghoul) released his debut album, Trouble, last September. It featured collaborations with Felix Cartal, RITUAL, and VÉRITÉ, among others. Last month, he teamed with Krewella on the single Ain’t That Why.
1.12 DVBBS @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com
Chris and Alex van den Hoef are on a roll. Last year, the Toronto and L.A.-based brothers dropped a single with Steve Aoki and 2 Chainz, released the 6-song Beautiful Disaster EP, and then followed it with another, the 10-song Blood of My Blood. The latter found the pair working with NERVO, GTA, Belly, Cisco Adler and more.
1.12 WONGO @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com
The Australian producer and DJ released a slew of singles last year: Doin’ It/Fantastic with Little By Little, Crunch, Handle It (feat. Divoli S’vere), and most recently, Paradise (feat. San Mei).
1.13 TNT @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com
TNT is Technoboy (aka Italian DJ Cristiano Giusberti) and Tuneboy (fellow Bolognabased hardstyle producer Antonio Doná). The pair released the 3-song Yeah! EP and Tritolo single last year.
1.14 GRYFFIN OMNIA, omnianightclub.com
It’s a special DJ set from New York house DJ Dan Griffith as part of MLK weekend. The USC alum and classically trained pianist paired with Colorado-based DJ Illenium on the single Feel Good (feat. Daya) last year, as well as two of his own - Love In Ruins (feat. Sinéad Harnett) and Nobody Compares to You (Feat. Katie Pearlman).
1.19 DENNIS FERRER @ Spin, spinnightclub.com
Objektivity Records boss, Grammy-nominated New York producer, and veteran house DJ Ferrer scored his biggest hit with Hey Hey in 2010.
1.19 ALEXANDER LEWIS @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com
Last year, English producer Alex Lewis teamed with Juicy J on Yogi’s single, Money On My Mind. He also released two of his own – March and Off Guard.
1.20 DREZO @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com
This Vegas-born, L.A.-based DJ had remixed Dillon Francis, Destructo and the Backstreet Boys. Last year, he released the 3-song Jaded EP, and teamed with DUSTYCLOUD on the single House.
1.26 BASSJACKERS @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com
Dutch DJ duo and Spinnin’ Records regulars Bassjackers (Marlon Flohr and Ralph van Hilst) released five singles, as well as the 4-song EP Les Pays Bass, on their home country’s EDM label last year.
1.27 LOOKAS @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com
He’s worked with the likes of Flo Rida and Diplo, but it was remixing the 2013 DVBBS & Borgeous single, Tsunami, that put DJ Lookas (aka Lucas Rego) on the map. Rego closed 2017 by releasing a new single, Alarm, with sibling DJ duo Krewella.
JACK NOVAK 1.5
@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Chicago-born/L.A.-based producer and former model Jack (Jacqueline) Novak has opened for Calvin Harris and served as Pharrell Williams’ touring DJ. Novak recently cracked iTunes’ Top 10 with her remix of Jane Zhang’s 808 and has promised new original music this month.
1.27 CRANKDAT @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com
Twenty-year-old Ohio-based DJ Crankdat (aka Christian Smith) infamously gave up a full-ride athletic scholarship at Kent State when he dropped out of school to DJ. Terrible decision? Smith spent 2017 touring the world and releasing singles with T-Pain (In The Air) and Jauz (I Hold Still feat. Slushii). So… maybe it wasn’t.
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
103
Unveil your
beauty at
Alvarado Institute of SkinCare (619) 286 - 0372 | AlvaradoSkin.com 5565 Grossmont Center Dr., Bldg. 1, Ste. 126 La Mesa, CA 91942
LOVE | BLIND DATE
In for a Ride
Athletic adventurers learn the ropes about slopes BY MICHAEL BENNINGER | PHOTOS AND VIDEOS BY DAVID BROOKS MATCHMAKER JESSICA PELLIGRA
San Diego is famous for being one of the few places in the world where board-sport enthusiasts can hit the waves and slopes in the same day. But for those inexperienced in the snow, there’s Adventure Ski & Snowboard School in Encinitas. That’s where blind daters Terry and Amber are heading after just meeting in the Epic Limo that picked them up. Before they arrive in North County, though, let’s review their predate interviews. PACIFIC: Where are you from and where do you live now? 106
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
AMBER: I was born and raised in Gallup, New Mexico. I now live in San Diego. TERRY: I grew up in Del Mar, and I currently live in Del Mar. What do you do for a living? AMBER: I am co-owner of a gym called Convoy Strength. I’m also a powerlifting coach. TERRY: I’m in Internet marketing and own a large health and wellness community online (gymjunkies.com). Why are you going on a blind date for
PACIFIC? AMBER: A friend convinced me to, because I never go out. TERRY: I believe you should always try new things and keep an open mind. Who knows what will happen. What do you do for fun? AMBER: I like to lift and play video games and laugh at myself. TERRY: I’m very active. I enjoying weightlifting, running, boxing, surfing and hanging out with my friends on the weekends.
,
PLEASE ENJOY THE UNUSUAL RESPONSIBLY HENDRICK’S GIN, 44% ALC./VOL. ©2017 IMPORTED BY WILLIAM GRANT & SONS, INC. NEW YORK, NY.
LOVE | BLIND DATE
What are you best at? AMBER: Telling jokes. TERRY: I’d like to think I’m a good marketer and generally pretty good at sports. What do you suck at? AMBER: Telling jokes. It’s hit or miss. TERRY: (Laughs) Plenty of things. What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise? AMBER: Free food. A girl’s gotta eat. Oh, and someone who understands my sarcasm. TERRY: Physically, I tend to like athletic girls. Mentally, they have to be stimulating, have goals, good morals and ambition. Describe your special brand of sex appeal in five words or less. AMBER: Sex. Appeals. Have. Certain. Brands? TERRY: Driven, sensitive, loyal. What do you like least about yourself ? AMBER: I’m too competitive. TERRY: I heard I’m a sh**ty communicator. (Laughs) I’m working on that.
108
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. AMBER: On a good day ... a 10 from 10 feet away. TERRY: (Laughs) I don’t even feel comfortable saying this. I think other people should rate you. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality. AMBER: 6.9. TERRY: (Laughs) Same as above. What’s your biggest fear? AMBER: Someone not laughing at my jokes. TERRY: Not living up to my potential in life. What traits might your date exhibit that would be complete deal-breakers? AMBER: When they don’t respect women. TERRY: Being lazy, not mentally stimulating or rude to other people. How many people have you slept with? AMBER: All of them ... just kidding. None of them. ’Cause I’m always woke. Get it? ‘Cause woke is the opposite of sleep?
TERRY: No comment. Fill in the blanks: I want my blind date to be “blank” and “blank.” AMBER: I want my blind date to be blind and deaf. That way they don’t have to see me or hear me talk. TERRY: Sweet and stimulating. Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less? AMBER: I don’t kiss and tell. TERRY: If there is a connection, maybe. I guess I’ll have to wait and see. What’s the most important thing in the world? AMBER: Money and bitches — my dogs and money to feed my dogs. TERRY: Your family, your beliefs and your friends. The carpeted slope at Adventure Ski & Snowboard School is like an oversized conveyor belt that’s helped countless locals learn to carve. After strapping on their boots and going over some quick safety tips with an expert instructor, Amber and Terry are ready to ride.
LOVE | BLIND DATE
Playing House Drinking and dining at North County’s new foodie haven
Terry’s been snowboarding a few times before, but for Amber this is all brand new. He is sweet and attentive and waits for his date to get comfortable before progressing to the next phase of their lesson. While a typical trip down a mountain takes around five minutes, the daters cruise on the magic carpet nonstop for more than half an hour. By the end of their lesson, both Amber and Terry are satisfied with their skills and have worked up an appetite. Amber and Terry spend a few minutes freshening up before they return to the limo for a quick ride to the next stop — dinner at Open House Food + Drink in Encinitas. Instead of sitting across from one another, at the multi-concept 4-in-1 restaurant, the daters cozy up next to each other at a secluded table. After they’ve had a chance to order appetizers and drinks, we split them up for mid-date debriefings. PACIFIC: How’s it going so far? AMBER: It’s going good. TERRY: It’s going pretty good. What were your first impressions of your date? AMBER: I liked his bun — his man bun. TERRY: She’s a little quiet, but nice and easy to get along with. I’m having a pretty good time. Is this the type of person you’d normally date? AMBER: No, actually. I don’t really date much. So, I don’t really have a type. TERRY: I don’t know, maybe? I guess I would have to get to know her better. What do you think of the way your date is dressed? AMBER: Good. TERRY: Well, we thought we were going to be in the snow, but it doesn’t matter because 110
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
Mac and cheese from Open House Food + Drink.
I’m kind of casual. I don’t really care. How are you enjoying Open House? AMBER: The drinks are good — really good. And I like how there’s two different menus, I love the Asian-style stuff, but I also want contemporary. So, it’s really good. I like it. TERRY: It’s pretty good. I like it. Food was good. Drinks were good. We ordered some fancy whiskey drink. How was your experience at Adventure Ski & Snowboard School? AMBER: It was fun. It took me awhile to get the hang of it. It was my first time on a snowboard. TERRY: It was a lot of fun. Actually, the
carpet is much different from the snow and you have to be a little more graceful than you are in the snow, because it’s not as forgiving. I would go back, for sure. What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far? AMBER: I think that we just click outside of what we are interested in, so we were talking about AI technology and stuff. So it was fun. He’s really nice. TERRY: I think just kind of being herself. I don’t want to say mellow, but just kind of natural. What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far? AMBER: Nothing.
TERRY: I don’t think she’s done anything unattractive. Rate your date on a scale from 1 to 10 for looks. AMBER: I don’t know. That’s so weird. I don’t really care about looks. I would say he’s a 9. TERRY: I don’t like rating people. I don’t know, an 8? 7, 8? And for personality? AMBER: A 9. TERRY: I think she’s starting to open up, so I’d say a 7 or 8 … Couple more drinks … God knows I need a couple drinks too. What’s your date’s most attractive quality? AMBER: Physically, I like his hair.
TERRY: Her overall appearance. She’s in shape and clearly takes care of herself. She’s put together. What’s your date’s least attractive quality? AMBER: He needs to make more jokes. He needs to be funny. TERRY: I just don’t know her, so I don’t really have a comment. Do you want to kiss your date right now? AMBER: Not yet. TERRY: I don’t know. We’ll see how the date goes. Does your date want to kiss you? AMBER: I don’t know. TERRY: I have no idea.
How and when will the date end? AMBER: I have no idea. We’ll see, with a couple more drinks. TBD. TERRY: How will it end? I can’t answer that either. Only time will tell … Couple drinks. Anything you’d like to add? AMBER: This experience is really fun, because I’ve never done anything like this before. I never go out, so it’s a great way to explore San Diego and everything that it offers, and also a great chance to meet new people. TERRY: I think it was cool. At the end of the day, you’ve got to keep an open mind, just try different things, and you never know. You don’t have anything to lose. You might as well do it. @PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
111
LOVE | BLIND DATE
Down Hill From Here
CLOCKWISE (from top left): A stir fry dish from Open House Food + Drink; poke; Thai Basil & Kumquat mojito; Amber enjoys a taco from Open House.
Once their entrees arrive, the daters are left alone to enjoy the rest of their evening. We follow up with them the next morning to find out what we missed.
When did you get home? AMBER: Like 9:30 or 10 o’clock. I don’t remember. TERRY: Probably like 9, maybe? Was there a kiss or romantic exchange? AMBER: There was a hug and we exchanged numbers. TERRY: There was a polite hug at the end, and that was about it. How and when did the date end exactly? AMBER: After we went to his place, around 9:30. I had to go home. I had work to do. TERRY: Yeah, we exchanged numbers, and then she took off.
PACIFIC: How was your experience and dinner at Open House Food + Drink? AMBER: It was really nice, we had a lot of good food and a lot of good drinks. TERRY: It was fun, it was a good time. What did you eat and drink there? AMBER: I ordered the wine and whiskey, and then I asked the lady to make me a really pretty drink. I don’t remember what it was called. I think it was something with 112
JANUARY 2018 @PACIFICSD
lemongrass. And then I had tacos, mac ‘n’ cheese and we had poke with some stir fry. TERRY: I had an Asian dish with noodles and a whiskey drink that they had on the menu. Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after dinner? AMBER: We went to go grab some frozen yogurt, and then we hung out at his place with his roommate for a little bit. We watched a little bit of TV and then I went home. TERRY: We decided to go to Swirlz, a frozen yogurt place and hung out. And then that was it.
Fill in the blanks. I wish my date had a bigger “blank” and a smaller “blank.” AMBER: A bigger man bun and smaller biceps. TERRY: I don’t even know what to say to that. What’s the funniest thing that happened during the date? AMBER: There were a lot of funny times. I think when he biffed it pretty hard on the snowboard. TERRY: Probably when she said she wanted to make sure I wasn’t a serial killer (laughs). What was the best part of the date and why? AMBER: Hanging out afterwards, because we felt like we didn’t have to put on too much of a show. It was nice to hang out and meet his roommate and everything. TERRY: Probably dinner, or boarding was fun. Both were equally fun. What was the worst part of the date and why? AMBER: We thought we lost the driver (laughs), but we found him. TERRY: We almost went to Oceanside, but thank God I knew where the place was, so I reverted us back to Encinitas. Will there be a second date? Why or why not?
AMBER: I don’t know. I guess we’ll find out. TERRY: I don’t know, maybe? I guess that would probably require a follow up. So, to be continued. What’s one thing your date really should know before going on another date? AMBER: Don’t take so long getting ready (Editor’s note: Rumor has it that Terry took his sweet time getting to the limo to meet his date). TERRY: I don’t know. I think she probably got a pretty good idea about me, I hope. What could have made this date better? AMBER: I don’t know. It was really nice. TERRY: I feel like it went pretty smooth. Maybe a longer time getting to know someone? Anything else you’d like to add? AMBER: I think it was really great to explore San Diego. I didn’t even know they had an indoor snowboarding type of thing. It was good because I never get to go out, and the food was really delicious. I’m glad to be part of this experience. TERRY: Like I said in the beginning, you should keep an open mind. I would recommend it to my friends. You have nothing to lose. It was a good time. I had fun.
AFTERMATCH: Though it seemed like the daters were heading into Netflix-and-chill territory, any warmth between them must have cooled between before the polite hug. So, while the date ended with a disappointment, we’re still holding out hope for some mattressdancing on Mammoth Mountain.
EDITOR’S NOTE: In certain cases, daters’ answers were edited for length and clarity.
THANK YOU AND PROMOTIONAL CONSIDERATION TO: ADVENTURE SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL 1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas 760.942.2188, adventureski.com OPEN HOUSE FOOD + DRINK 345 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas 760.452.2555, openhouseasiankitchen.com EPIC LIMO 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com
@PACIFICSD
JANUARY 2018
113
Art by KRIVVY
m ur artists at LIFEWTR.com
Art byArt David byArt David Lee by David Lee Art by David Lee
Discover our artists at LIFEWTR.com
Art by David Lee
Discover our artists at LIFEWTR.com
Seri Disc
ee Art by David Lee
L IFE L IFW EW TRTR
SeriesSeries 4 Arts4 in Arts Education in Education Series 4 Arts in Education Discover Discover our artists our artists at LIFEWTR.com at LIFEWTR.com Discover our artists at LIFEWTR.com LIFEWTR and LIFEWTR the LIFEWTR and theLogo LIFEWTR are registered Logo aretrademarks registered trademarks of PepsiCo,of Inc. PepsiCo, 22909000 LIFEWTR Inc. 22909000 and the LIFEWTR Lo
Born in with an accent. OUR LATEST EXPRESSION pays tribute to American whiskey’s contribution to single malt Scotch and the American oak bourbon barrels that have shaped the flavor of Scotch whisky for generations. It is matured 14 years in bourbon heritage barrels and then finished in new American oak barrels from Kelvin Cooperage in Kentucky.
The resulting whisky combines the smooth, fruit-filled complexity of Speyside with the bold vanilla punch and caramel richness of Kentucky.
U.S. Exclusive
Certified Kosher
SKILLFULLY CRAFTED. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. GLENFIDDICH.COM
GLENFIDDICH SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY, 43% ALC./VOL. ©2015 IMPORTED BY WILLIAM GRANT & SONS. NEW YORK, NY.