PACIFIC San Diego Magazine March 2017

WHAT UP, HOMES?

MARCH 2017 PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

ON THE HOMEFRONT: SAN DIEGO SKYSCRAPERS • RADICAL RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE • A SKYLINE HELICOPTER TOUR • DYNAMIC DESIGN AND DÉCOR • AN ARCHITECT’S GLASS HOUSE • AT HOME WITH CELEBRITY CHEF RICHARD BLAIS • RESTAURANTS THAT LOOK GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT

LIVE CONCERTS, EDM SHOWS, STAND-UP COMEDY, ART OPENINGS, STAGE PERFORMANCES, MOVIE PREVIEWS, BEER NEWS AND OTHER CRITICAL INFO.

PARK & DISCOVER

THE HISTORIC HEART OF SAN DIEGO.

, s r e e Ch r to you

! e l sty KITCHEN REMODELING BATHROOM REMODELING

WESTSTAR

CONTRACTORS FREE Estimates thru March 31

QUALITY CONSTRUCTION OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE CALL DON 619.247.9496 WestStarContractors.com

LICENSE # 931836

EDITOR’S NOTE ON THE

HOMEFRONT Construction cranes looming over downtown promise to change the city’s skyline forever.

When I moved to San Diego from Philadelphia in 1993, I lived behind the westernmost Vons (now Staples) on Garnet Avenue, where produce trucks making deliveries assured I never slept past 5 a.m. I had met my roommate through an ad in The Reader and was paying $375 per month for half of a two-bedroom apartment.

My father had just died suddenly, and I was feeling far from home, both geographically and emotionally.

The following year, I splurged on my own one-bedroom. When I stood on the picnic table on the shared patio, I enjoyed peekaboo views of Mission Bay. Living in that lap of luxury cost me $500 per month. Spending so much time with my best friend, who lived next door, made the place feel like home.

A couple of friends and I rented a sweet three-bedroom condo in north P.B. for the next couple of years. Those guys were like family, and I have wonderful, hazy memories of our time at home by the beach.

In 1997, I bought a house in Mission Hills for $284,000, which was the going rate at the time. While living there, I met my wife, and we built a life together, turning that house into a place we called home for almost two decades.

Today, Simone, Lex (our son) and I are shopping for a house in a safe neighborhood full of kids. One place we’re looking at is so far from downtown, it barely feels like the city I love. During a recent break from an open-house tour, the three of us were sitting at Starbucks when Lex handed me the picture above.

It says, “Lex loves Daddy,” he told me. He spelled “loves” phonetically as “LFS,” with a backwards “S.” He spelled “Daddy” as “Dad” with an “E” floating above it, because he had run out of space.

I’m the guy on the left, by the way. Lex is on the right. Cutest friggin’ thing that ever happened to me.

I’m uncertain where our little family will live next, but one thing I know for sure is that love will make it home. And we will never leave this town.

Please enjoy this home/design/décorfocused issue of PACIFIC, dear Reader. I hope Sincerely, some words or images inside the magazine help you fall in love with your city all over again. And whether you find yourself in an apartment at the beach, a house in Mission Hills or somewhere way the eff up in North David Perloff, County, may your home be full of love.

Editor-in-Chief

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

GOOD

T O

T H E

LAST SHOP

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Ocean Views... as far as the eye can sea.

VOLUME #11 ISSUE #3 MARCH 2017

E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F

David Perloff E D I TO R S

Leslie Hackett, Michael James Rocha C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R

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

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

John McCutchen O N L I N E E D I TO R

Michelle Dederko

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

Poseidon on the beach 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar | (858) 755-9345 | poseidonrestaurant.com

STA F F W R I T E R

Liz Bowen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Benninger, Liz Bowen, Lisa Deaderick, Michelle Dederko, Brandon Hernández, Pam Kragen, Scott McDonald, Phillip Molnar, David Nelson, Michele Parente, Michael James Rocha, Karla Peterson, Sarah Pfledderer C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E R S

TAPAS BAR

K.C. Alfred, David Brooks, Nelvin C. Cepeda, Eduardo Contreras, Howard Lipin, Hayne Palmour P H OTO E D I TO R S

Alma Cesena, David Poller

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

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

“Dollar for Dollar”Happy Hour | The Dollar Amount Spent on Alcohol, Get the Equivalent in Free Food!

Edith Zamora

Alyson Tietze, Jeremy Lang A DV E R T I S E R S E R V I C E S M A N AG E R

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A SUBSIDIARY OF THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE

RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR 353 Fifth Avenue • San Diego • 619-233-5979 • CafeSevilla.com 12

MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

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

619.296.6300

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P A C I F I C R E A L E S T A T E M A R K E T W A T C H

DOWNTOWN, 92101 Location, location, location! One of the best spots in downtown and the Gaslamp.

Stunning studio offering open and bright floorplan with expansive windows, custom wall unit with queen-size Murphy bed, granite counters, designer cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar and high-end fixtures.

Fully furnished. Courtyard-facing unit (reduces street noise) with balcony.

Well-maintained complex with gated entry, underground parking, BBQs and a gym. Enjoy downtown life and all it has to offer with this exquisite studio.

530 K St., Unit 418, San Diego, CA 92101, $319,000 - $349,000

MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI Broker/Realtor (R)

1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116, 619.787.6852, BRE # 01380034 MelissaTucci.com, Sold@MelissaTucci.com No. 1 ranked Coldwell Banker agent/broker and official real estate agent of the San Diego Padres.

MARKET UPDATE First-quarter 2017 is starting off strong, with many buyers purchasing in the marketplace despite increased interest rates. Positive forecasts reveal stability in the coming year, which influences a greater outcome and provides continual growth.

MARKET STATS (January 2017 data shown) Homes for sale: 166 Homes sold: 45 Highest price: $2,600,000 Lowest price: $270,000 Median home price: $685,943

CONTENTS

THREE.SEVENTEEN / FEATURES

MARCH

F E AT U R E S 50 ALMOST HOME

ON THE COVER: CLOCKWISE (from top left) – Find these images on pages 108, 57, 68, 55, 77, 67 and 54.

ON THIS PAGE: Home cooking with Chef Richard Blais. See story, page 60.

Photo by Eduardo Contreras

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

The city’s hottest new residential developments are nearly move-in ready

60 WHAT UP, HOMES?

House calls, San Diego-style

To

CHARACTER, CLASS & HAVING a full GLASS

The Legendary

IRISH WHISKEY Established 1829

to

P A C I F I C R E A L E S T A T E M A R K E T W A T C H

DOWNTOWN 92101 Form meets function in this beautiful open loft space that remains faithful to the urban lifestyle.

Enjoy natural light in this bright corner residence that begs to entertain family and friends.

Attention to detail exudes from the immaculate space in the form of gleaming hardwood floors, designer lighting, custom Italian doors, newly modern designed bathrooms, two fabulous outdoor patios and so much more. Conveniently located near restaurants, theaters, shopping, San Diego Bay, Coronado, Little Italy and more. Residence 306 upgrades include Tech Lighting Systems throughout; pendants, chandelier and task lighting from Lightology in Chicago; builtin closets by Poliform Wardrobe Systems; Italian Tre-Pii Doors on bathrooms and laundry; Armstrong ceilings system in entry and room dividers by Milk Design in Chicago.

877 Island Ave., #306, San Diego, CA 92101, $999,900 - $1,049,900

MARKET UPDATE The Downtown and Little Italy markets had a median price of $506,750 and an appreciation of 5.6% from the same period last year. 2016 was the sixth straight year of positive gains for real estate since the market bottomed out in 2011.

CHAD DANNECKER Welcome to San Diego Real Estate Dannecker & Associates 875 G. St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101, 619.356.3099, BRE#01459513 Chad@DanneckerandAssociates.com, @welcometosandiego.com, #welcometosandiego, @WelcometoSD

MARKET STATS (January 2017 data shown) Homes for sale: 147 Homes sold: 30 Highest price: $1,650,000 Lowest price: $267,000 Median home price: $589,000

CONTENTS

THREE.SEVENTEEN / DEPARTMENTS

MARCH

D E PA R TMENTS CURRENTS 24 Three.Seventeen Event calendar 34 Laughing Stock March stand-up comedy shows PULSE 36 Art Beat March gallery and exhibition openings 42 Curtain Calls Performing arts preview 44 Reel Cool March motion picture preview 48 The Milky Way A local artist curates the galaxy of design TASTE 70 Ate is Enough

Eight restaurants that look good enough to eat 82 Home’s Cool How household traditions helped prepare a culinary career 84 Take it from the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here 90 Soaking in the Site High-design hot spot rolls out new cocktail program 92 French Bliss A bartender finds paradise, the perfect place to practice his pour GROOVE 94 Sounds Like a Plan March concert calendar 102 Take a Spin Upcoming EDM and DJ performances LOVE 104 Over the Top A high-flying look at life and love in San Diego

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Bartender Kevin Ashe created this Sweet Surrender cocktail at Ponsaty’s Fine Dining & Lounge in Rancho Santa Fe. Photo by K.C. Alfred

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WOMEN +WHISKEY

MEET TWO BARTENDERS WHO SAY YOU DON’T KNOW JACK UNTIL YOU MEET THEIR GENTLEMAN.

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in San Diego, California.

What’s awesome about the bar you work at?

I am the beverage director for a couple of bars, so each one of them have a special place in my heart. One is more craft-driven, and one is about volume – both very familyoriented and welcoming.

What cocktail are you making today?

The name of the cocktail is A Women’s S’corn. It is an Old Fashioned variation – a classic Old Fashioned in spirit, with Angostura bitters, sugar cube, lemon and orange zest garnish. I wanted to magnify the notes of the spirit, so I took peppercorns and rosemary and baked them on a cookie sheet to bring the oils out. Then I took demerara sugar and did a one-to-one ratio with the hot water it was soaking in. Then I made strawberry Angostura bitters to grab some of the sweeter notes.

Why does Gentleman Jack work well for this cocktail?

Gentlemen Jack works perfectly in this cocktail because it takes the sweet notes and adds a savory boozy afterthought to every sip.

What makes this a great cocktail for women who are just getting into whiskey?

It is a very approachable cocktail, but still very direct.

What makes this a great cocktail for women who are already experienced whiskey drinkers?

It’s direct and has some complex notes one can pick out.

What was your first experience with whiskey?

Let’s just say I don’t think I could ever drink Irish whiskey again. I think I threw it up the entire next day.

What advice would you give women who want to get into drinking whiskey?

I would let them know that developing your palate is gradual and fun. The first sip does not tell the whole story; taste it again, and you can see a huge difference.

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GE e.com KETTNER EXCHAN 001, kettnerexchang Little Italy, 619.255.2 2001 Kettner Blvd.,

Where are you from?

I am originally from East County. I was born in Rancho San Diego, grew up in La Mesa and now reside in South Park.

What’s awesome about the bar you work at?

Kettner Exchange is one of the most unique bars in Little Italy. It offers something for everyone with its upscale dining, a casual lounge with an open-air patio, live entertainment, an impressive wine list, incredible food and, of course, innovative craft cocktails. Above all, our staff is knowledgeable and proud of what we do as a team.

What cocktail are you making today?

I am making a cocktail called the Stone Blossom.

It features Gentleman Jack, an apricot liquor, fresh pineapple and lemon juice, demerara (large-grain raw sugar) and a big bouquet of mint.

Why does Gentleman Jack work well for this cocktail?

Gentleman Jack is great for this cocktail because it has a lot of vanilla on the nose. The vanilla pairs amazingly with apricot, while the demerara adds great body and richness to it.

What makes this a great cocktail for women who are just getting into whiskey?

The flavors are friendly, soft, bright and refreshing without being overbearing. Every ingredient compliments the Gentleman Jack, making it light and easy to drink.

What makes this a great cocktail for women who are already experienced whiskey drinkers?

Though the flavors are friendly, it is also well-balanced.

The whiskey is still the predominant flavor, making it favorable for any whiskey drinker.

What was your first experience with whiskey?

Although I honestly can’t remember the very first experience I had with whiskey, it is safe to assume it was when I was a cocktail waitress at Henry’s Pub. I’m sure it was a shot of Jack Daniels that I definitely wasn’t ready for. It’s all a fond, hazy memory now.

What advice would you give to the women who want to get into drinking whiskey?

I would suggest starting with refreshing cocktails with fewer ingredients that allow the spirit to really stand out. Also, have a sip of the whiskey on its own, so you can taste them side by side. Maybe you can pick up on interesting flavors you didn’t know were there before.

Gentleman Jack is a great gateway whiskey. It is a touch sweeter than others due to the second charcoal filtration, leaving subtle enhanced caramel notes. There is a whiskey out there for everyone, so keep on exploring.

CURRENTS

THREE.SEVENTEEN / EVENTS

MARCH

BY MICHELLE DEDERKO

SAN 3.21 DIEGO MUSIC AWARDS House of Blues, downtown, sandiegomusicawards.com The local stars rockin’ San Diego’s music scene win awards in more than 20 categories as a roster of homegrown bands perform live. >>>

H AY N E PA L M O U R I V

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

JOI N T H E

at d u c k d i v e

ALL MARCH LONG

St. Paddy's Day Jamo Flights Green Beer Specials baby guinness shots 4 6 5 0 M I S S I O N B O U L E VA R D | PA C I F I C B E A C H | 8 5 8 . 2 7 3 . D U C K THEDUCKDIVE.COM |

 /THEDUCKDIVE |  @THEDUCKDIVE

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

3.2-3.13 CIRCUS VARGAS

PRESENTS STEAM CIRQUE

Westfield North County, Escondido circusvargas.com The traveling circus comes to North County, its big top exploding with a wacky cast of steam-punkinspired characters performing high-flying, deathdefying stunts.

M I K E R O L L E R S O N / C O U R T E S Y C I R C U S VA R G A S

3.4-3.5 SAN DIEGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW San Diego Convention Center, Marina District travelshows.com Learn where to go, how to get there and tips for packing – plus tech trends, budget hacks and other industry-expert tips – during this vacation showcase.

JON RAN/J & J STUDIOS

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3.4

MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

3.4

THE SUPER RUN 5K

TIME WARP ’80S PROM

Embarcadero Marina North, Marina District thesuperrun.com Heroes and villains come together for charity in this costumed 5K race along the downtown waterfront.

San Diego Hall of Champions, Balboa Park princessprojectsd.org Rad costumes are totally mandatory at the Princess Project’s annual ’80s prom fundraising event, where a prom king and queen will be crowned fer sher. >>>

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

3.4 CHIPPENDALES 2017: BEST. NIGHT. EVER. TOUR

House of Blues, downtown houseofblues.com No shirts, no problem. The Chippendales bump and grind, their pecs and glutes undulating to throbbing beats and audience squeals.

CHARLIE NEUMAN

DENISE TRUSCELLO

3.11 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND IRISH FESTIVAL K AT H Y L O P E R E V E N T S

3.11

3.11 BEST COAST BEER FEST

Mission Bay Park, Mission Bay, active.com Wear green while running this 10K around Mission Bay to avoid getting pinched over pizza and beer at the finish line.

Embarcadero Park South, Marina District bestcoastbeerfest.com Soak in the views and the brews at this Will Ferrell-backed beer festival, which brings local bands, food trucks and nearly 100 west coast craft beers to the downtown waterfront to support the actor’s favorite charity, Cancer for College.

3.12 ©2002 WARNER BROS. HARRY POTTER PUBLISHING RIGHTS © J.K. ROWLING.

3.11-12

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HARRY POTTER AT THE SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Copley Symphony Hall, downtown sandiegosymphony.org Watch “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” as the San Diego Symphony Orchestra performs every note from John Williams’ magical score.

MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

SAN DIEGO HALF MARATHON Petco Park, East Village sdhalfmarathon.com This scenic 13.1-mile course begins at Petco Park, winding through downtown and along San Diego Bay before heading to Liberty Station, Mission Hills and Hillcrest. >>>

HOWARD LIPIN

ST. PATRICK’S DAY 10K

Fifth and Laurel streets, Balboa Park stpatsparade.org Embrace the Irish spirit at this annual cultural parade and festival featuring Irish food, live entertainment on two stages and, of course, a beer garden.

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

JOHN R. MCCUTCHEN

SEAN M HAFFEY

3.14-3.19

3.17

WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC

SAN DIEGO SHAMROCK

Petco Park, East Village, mlb.com Baseball stars from around the world compete in San Diego during the second round of action in the World Baseball Classic.

Gaslamp, sandiegoshamrock.com More than 20,000 St. Patrick’s Day partiers are expected to attend this annual event, which brings live music on three stages, copious amounts of green beer and more than 50,000 square-feet of Astroturf (nearly the size of a football field) to the streets of downtown.

3.17-3.19 SAN DIEGO CAKE SHOW Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar sandiegocakeshow.com Master pastry chefs, local bakers and amateur decorators come together for cake-making competitions and other sweets sensations in keeping with this year’s theme: Comic Cake.

3.18 ©STEWART MARCANO PHOTOGRAPHY 2016

3.18 MISSION HILLS 5K Mission Hills, missionhills5k.com This run through one of San Diego’s most historic neighborhoods passes Craftsman homes, charming boutiques and cozy cafes.

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

COLOR IN MOTION 5K Qualcomm Stadium, Mission Valley colorinmotion5k.com Sport a bright white shirt while running through pops of color along a 5K course leading to a vibrant after party. >>>

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

M AT T FA R R I N G T O N

3.18 YOGA TO FARM Suzie’s Farm, South Bay, suziesfarm.com Downward dogs run wild at Suzie’s Farm, where a 75-minute yoga class under a canopy of eucalyptus trees will be followed by a tour of the farm’s organic fruits and veggies.

3.18 ROCK STAR BEER FESTIVAL The Lafayette Hotel, North Park rockstarbeerfestivalsd.com Feel legendary with unlimited samples of craft beer and live local bands jamming through the night.

AL FERNANDEZ IMAGES

BRENDAN MCCOURT/@BPM.PHOTO

3.26 HOT CHOCOLATE 5K/15K

Petco Park, East Village hotchocolate15k.com/sandiego Sweets stations stocked with marshmallows, chocolate chips and M&Ms help runners reach the mugs of hot (dark) chocolate at the finish line.

3.26 ENCINITAS HALF MARATHON

Encinitas, encinitashalfmarathon.com Run a 13.1-mile ocean-view course through Solana Beach, Cardiff, Encinitas and Leucadia.

3.25 10TH ANNIVERSARY MUSTACHE BASH The Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier, Marina District mustachebashsd.com Essentially a festival of funk, Mustache Bash embraces groovy vibes with live bands and bellbottoms galore.

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CU R R E N T S

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

COMEDY

LAUGHING STOCK MARCH STAND-UP COMEDY SHOWS

3.18

JAY & SILENT BOB

“I GREW UP IN A PRETTY GAY WORLD — MY BROTHER’S GAY AND HE’S BEEN MARRIED TO A MAN FOR 20 YEARS, WHICH IS LIKE 60 IN STRAIGHTPEOPLE YEARS.” — Kevin Smith on “Piers Morgan Tonight” @ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org @ Harrah’s Resort SoCal The Events Center, caesars.com/harrahs-socal

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

3.2 JACOB SIROF

3.16-18 APRIL MACIE

“ANYONE BEEN TO A NASCAR EVENT? YOU WON’T SEE ONE BLACK GUY THERE, RIGHT? NOT ONE. YOU’RE BETTER OFF TRYING TO FIND A MEXICAN IN A CRATE & BARREL. IT’S NOT GONNA HAPPEN. YOU MIGHT FIND A MEXICAN IN A CRATE OR A BARREL, BUT PROBABLY NOT SHOPPING AT THE CRATE & BARREL.” — Jacob Sirof on Rooftop Comedy @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“DID YOU GUYS KNOW THAT PENISES OWN 98 PERCENT OF LAND? THE ENTIRE WORLD IS OWNED BY A DICK. WOMEN OWN LESS THAN 2 PERCENT OF THE LAND ’CAUSE WE BUY DUMB S*** LIKE SPRAY TANS AND EYELASH EXTENSIONS. ALL MY CASH IS TIED UP IN BRONZER CURRENTLY.” — April Macie at Gotham Comedy Club @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

3.3-5 DAVE ATTELL

3.17-18 SAM TRIPOLI

“MY NUTSACK LOOKS LIKE A TENT NOBODY KNOWS HOW TO FOLD UP. IT’S EVERYWHERE. …

WHEN I DIE, DON’T WASTE MONEY ON A COFFIN. JUST PULL MY NUTSACK OVER MY HEAD LIKE A REVERSE HOODIE, AND THROW ME IN THE OCEAN.” — Dave Attell on “Conan” @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“I’VE HAD A WEIRD WEEK. I JUST FOUND OUT THAT MY EX-GIRLFRIEND GOT DEPORTED. YEAH, IT’S CRAZY HOW A CALL TO IMMIGRATION CAN GIVE YOU CLOSURE, YOU KNOW WHAT I’M SAYING?” — Sam Tripoli on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.comedystore.com

3.21 MAX ROSENBLUM “DO YOU KNOW WHAT MY LEAST FAVORITE RELIGION IS? YOURS.” — Max Rosenblum on Comedy Time @ The Comedy Palace, thecomedypalace.com

3.10-11 BRET ERNST “I’M EXHAUSTED FROM WALKING AROUND THE CITY WITH THESE EYEBROWS ALL DAY. IT TAKES A LOT OUT OF YOU. I ACTUALLY HAVE TO WAX THEM LIKE ONCE EVERY THREE DAYS OR THEY START GROWING INTO A GOATEE. I DON’T KNOW IF MY MOTHER BANGED A MUPPET IN THE ’70S OR WHAT, BUT IT IS WHAT IT IS. ” — Bret Ernst on “Comedy Central Presents” @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.comedystore.com

3.10-12 FINESSE MITCHELL “BLACK WOMEN UNDER THE AGE OF 21 SHOULDN’T BE ALLOWED TO HAVE BLACK CHILDREN

BY THEMSELVES. NAMES LIKE FINESSE, LA QUAY QUAY, PLEXICO. ALL THIS BULLS*** GOT TO STOP SOONER OR LATER.” — Finesse Mitchell on “The Kevin Nealon Show” @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

3.23-25 BRIAN POSEHN “I LOVE PORTLAND SO MUCH, BUT I COULD NOT LIVE UP HERE — BECAUSE I OWN A PUREBRED DOG. PRETTY SURE THEY’RE ILLEGAL. I HAVE RESCUES TOO, SO DON’T BE LIKE, ‘YOU KNOW YOU SHOULD ONLY HAVE RESCUES.’ I DO RESCUE. MY PUREBRED, I RESCUED HER … FROM A BREEDER.” — Brian Posehn on Posehn 25/2x @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

J AY & S I L E N T B O B B Y S A R A H K E AY E S / G E T T Y I M A G E S ; J A C O B S I R O F B Y M I C H A E L S C H W A R T Z / G E T T Y I M A G E S ; D AV E AT T E L L B Y M I K E C O P P O L A / G E T T Y I M A G E S ; F I N E S S E M I T C H E L L B Y M I K E C O P P O L A / G E T T Y I M A G E S ; B R I A N P O S E H N B Y R I C K D I A M O N D / G E T T Y I M A G E S ; B R YA N C A L L E N B Y F R A Z E R H A R R I S O N / G E T T Y I M A G E S .

3.30-4.1 BRYAN CALLEN “A REAL MAN NEVER LAUGHS UNLESS HE’S TAKING A LIFE.” — Bryan Callen in “Never Grow Up” @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

35

PUlSE

“ARTIST TALK ON ‘SOUTHERN CA SCULPTURE’ EXHIBIT”

ART BEAT / GALLERY & EXHIBIT OPENINGS

3.5 SPARKS GALLERY 530 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.696.1416, sparksgallery.com Meet and interact with the artists participating in this group show. >>>

“The Tot” by Richard Becker.

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MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

MARCH

BY LISA DEADERICK

B R E A K F A S T

L U N C H

D I N N E R

2 4 H O U R S A D A Y

D O W N T O W N ’S O N LY F U L L - S E RV I C E 2 4 / 7 R E S TA U R A N T

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It’s all good at Brian’s 24, open 24/7/365*

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(at 1 a.m. or 1 p.m.)

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O’PATTY MELT WITH A BRIAN’S FULL MOON (SWEET TEA VODKA AND REFUGE BLOOD ORANGE WIT) 828 SIXTH AVENUE

*366 during Leap Years.

GASLAMP QUARTER

619.702.8410

BRIANS24.COM

P U L S E A R T B E AT

3.2 “eXit PARTy > Steinkamping” MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO, JACOBS BUILDING 1100 and 1001 Kettner Blvd., downtown, 858.454.3541, mcasd.org Artist Jennifer Steinkamp’s video installation focuses on Marie Curie, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist.

CLOCKWISE (from top): Part of Jennifer Steinkamp’s Madame Curie installation. Photo by Pablo Mason; “Explosive” by Cristiana Brusco; “Fortunes Fool” by Chris Smith

3.3-3.26

3.3-3.31

“Living in the City”

“‘Top 100’ Plus One-Foot Show and Sale”

THE STUDIO DOOR 3750 30th St., North Park 619.255.4920, thestudiodoor.com Emerging street artists present their work as fine art in a gallery setting.

GALLERY 23 AT THE SPANISH VILLAGE ART CENTER 1770 Village Place, Balboa Park 619.233.9050, spanishvillageart.com See the paintings and drawings comprising Southwestern Artists Association’s 16th annual Juried Exhibition. >>>

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P U L S E A R T B E AT

3.25-6.18 “Creative Catalyst Project: Michelle Montjoy’s River”

3.16-4.13

OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3720, oma-online.org Set aside traditional concepts of knitting to make way for a reimagining of the art form, one that involves the use of T-shirts.

“Shinpei Takeda” MESA COLLEGE ART GALLERY 7250 Mesa College Drive, Clairemont Mesa 619.388.2829, sdmesa.edu/art-gallery This Japanese filmmaker and visual artist’s work typically incorporates themes surrounding history and memory.

CLOCKWISE (from top left): A work by Shinpei Takeda; Creative Catalyst Project; Installation by Nick Mansfield (Photo by JunFu Mei); Installation by Pinar Yoldas; Photograph by Lynda Koolish; “Cherry Trees” by Jim Salvati; “Dancing in Front of My Eyes”

by Richard Deacon.

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3.25-7.25 “Richard Deacon: What You See Is What You Get” SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.232.7931, sdmart.org Discover nearly 40 works — including freestanding sculptures, wall-hanging pieces and glazed ceramics — by visual artist Richard Deacon, winner of Britain’s coveted Turner Prize.

THROUGH 3.5 “Weathering the Storm: Trauma Beneath the Surface” SAN DIEGO ART INSTITUTE PROJECT SPACE AT HORTON PLAZA 141 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.236.0011, sandiego-art.org Enter a multisensory environment intended to produce the sort of emotions that those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often experience.

THROUGH 3.17 “Pinar Yoldas: ‘An Ecosystem of Excess’ ” ATKINSON HALL (FIRST FLOOR) AT UCSD 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla 858.534.2860, visarts.ucsd.edu Deriving inspiration from reports of the “Great Pacific garbage patch” — a collection of mostly plastic marine debris — the artist imagines life forms that can thrive in these man-made environments.

THROUGH 3.26 “Landscape & Bloom” ADELMAN FINE ART 1980 Kettner Blvd., Suite 40, Little Italy 619.354.5969, adelmanfineart.com Art springs forth in the form of florals and landscapes.

THROUGH 4.2 “Lynda Koolish: Portraits of Activism” WOMEN’S MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA 2730 Historic Decatur Road, Suite 103, Liberty Station 619.233.7963, womensmuseumca.org This 45-year photographic retrospective celebrates female strength as seen through women hard at work in Northern California.

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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P U L S E

BY SARAH PFLEDDERER

PERFORMING ARTS

MARCH PERFORMING ARTS 3.4-5 Peter Pan SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org Flying through town for two days only, California Ballet Company revives the story about a boy who never grows up in a faraway place called Neverland.

3.10-12 Tragedy of Carmen BALBOA THEATRE 868 Fourth Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org Chaos ensues when a soldier falls for the Gypsy Carmen, the seductress, leaving his hometown sweetheart in the dust.

3.17-4.2 Emma THE GRAND TEA ROOM 145 W. Grand Ave., Escondido 760.233.9500, the413project.org Jane Austen’s pageturner becomes an immersive, live experience over high tea, as Emma tries to play cupid for the entire village of Highbury.

3.9-4.30 On the Twentieth Century CYGNET THEATRE 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town 619.337.1525, cygnettheatre.com In this musical comedy, a bankrupt theater producer riding on a train bound for New York tries to convince his old flame, a Hollywood starlet, to be the lead in his next, yet-to-bewritten drama.

3.10-12 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org This on-stage youth adaptation of the Disney classic tells the tale of a good-looking, goodhearted girl’s effort to break through a prince’s ghastly guise by showing him how to love and be loved.

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3.10-12 Kinky Boots SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org As he struggles to fill his father’s shoes in the family footwear business, Charlie fills a game-changing order for one strapping performer’s pair of stilettos. Music and lyrics

by Cyndi Lauper.

3.17-4.16 Awake & Sing!

NEW VILLAGE ARTS THEATRE 2787 State St., Carlsbad 760.433.3245, newvillagearts.org Comedy and drama unfold as three generations of a lowermiddle-class Jewish family eke out a version of the American Dream during the Depression.

OLIVIER HOUEI

3.18 Malandain Ballet Biarritz SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org The French dance troupe returns to San Diego with an adult-oriented interpretation of Beauty and the Beast.

3.25-4.30 Red Velvet

3.31-4.29 The Geeze & Me

THE OLD GLOBE THEATRE 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org Get a backstage view of Theatre Royal in the 1800s, when an understudy steps up as Othello, becoming the first black man to play this role on an English stage.

TENTH AVENUE ARTS CENTER 930 10th Ave., downtown 858.437.9850, tenthavenuearts.com Aging is no joke — except when it’s yapped and crooned about in this musical celebrating the good, the bad and the ugly of getting gray.

3.30-4.23 Into the Beautiful North

3.24-4.23 The 39 Steps

LYCEUM SPACE 79 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.544.1000, sdrep.org

CORONADO PLAYHOUSE 1835 Strand Way, Coronado 619.435.4856, coronadoplayhouse.com Thrill and humor collide when, in 1930s Britain, Richard Hannay falls for a spy who divulges secrets that compel him to flee to Scotland after she dies.

As bandidos threaten to take over her village in Mexico, Nayeli sets out on a 1,000-mile journey to San Diego so she can smuggle back into the country the only men who can protect her town.

3.31-5.7 First Date THE HORTON GRAND THEATRE 444 Fourth Ave., downtown 619.347.6000, sdmt.org Two blind daters, whose initial meetup is peppered with perplexing passers-by and other hilarious distractions, discover that going out on a limb for love can be an uncomfortable undertaking.

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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P U L S E

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

MOVIES

THE REEL DEAL PICTURE PREVIEW

MARCH MOTION TABLE 19 You’re invited to the wedding of the season.

DRAMA | COMEDY Director: Jeffrey Blitz Starring: Anna Kendrick, Lisa Kudrow, Craig Robinson IN THEATERS: MARCH 3 After an appointed best man dumps a would-be maid of honor via text message, the former bridesmaid opts to attend the wedding anyway and finds herself seated among a group of misfit guests in the back of the banquet hall.

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THE SHACK

BEFORE I FALL

You’re never as alone as you think.

DRAMA Director: Stuart Hazeldine Starring: Sam Worthington, Octavia Spencer, Tim McGraw IN THEATERS: MARCH 3 A religious man struggles to maintain his faith after the tragic disappearance of his young daughter, until he receives an ominous letter that he believes to be from the Big Guy in the Sky.

What if today was the only day of the rest of your life?

MYSTERY | DRAMA Director: Ry Russo-Young Starring: Zoey Deutch, Halston Sage, Kian Lawleya IN THEATERS: MARCH 3 After her own death in a fatal car accident, one of the most popular girls in school is forced to repeatedly relive her last day until she discovers the truth about her demise and gains a new appreciation for the difference a single day can make.

LOGAN

KONG: SKULL ISLAND

SCI-FI | DRAMA Director: James Mangold Starring: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Boyd Holbrook IN THEATERS: MARCH 3 This spinoff of the X-Men franchise focuses on Wolverine’s final chapter, as the aging mutant and Professor X encounter an astonishing young girl along America’s southern border.

We don’t belong here.

FANTASY | SCI-FI Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, John Goodman IN THEATERS: MARCH 10 Set in the same “MonsterVerse” as 2014’s Godzilla, this rebooted story about a gargantuan gorilla revolves around a team of soldiers and scientists who embark on a mission to explore the mysterious island the creature calls home.

SONG TO SONG DRAMA | ROMANCE Director: Terrence Malick Starring: Natalie Portman, Ryan Gosling, Rooney Mara IN THEATERS: MARCH 17 Against a backdrop of Austin, Texas’ booming music scene, this film tells the tale of two young couples whose overlapping relationships become increasingly complicated and contentious. >>>

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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P U L S E MOVIES

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST The most beautiful love story ever told.

FANTASY | ROMANCE Director: Bill Condon Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans IN THEATERS: MARCH 17 In Disney’s latest live-action remake of their animated classics, a delusional young woman develops a severe case of Stockholm syndrome after a savage, self-loathing prince takes her captive.

POWER RANGERS Together, we are more.

SCI-FI | ACTION Director: Dean Israelite Starring: Naomi Scott, Dacre Montgomery, Elizabeth Banks IN THEATERS: MARCH 24 Based on the campy children’s series that first aired in 1993, a group of five teenagers receive incredible powers they must use to protect the planet from nefarious aliens.

LIFE Be careful what you search for.

SCI-FI | THRILLER Director: Daniel Espinosa Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rebecca Ferguson, Ryan Reynolds IN THEATERS: MARCH 24 After a team of international astronauts discover the first known instance of extraterrestrial life, the singlecelled organism they’re studying turns out to be much more sophisticated than they initially believed.

WILSON

CHIPs CHIP happens.

DRAMA | ACTION Director: Dax Shepard Starring: Dax Shepard, Michael Peña, Vincent D’Onofrio IN THEATERS: MARCH 24 A skilled motorcyclist and an undercover fed reluctantly team up as California Highway Patrol officers in this comedic remake of a TV buddy cop drama that aired in the late ’70s.

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He’s a people person.

COMEDY Director: Craig Johnson Starring: Woody Harrelson, Laura Dern, Isabella Amara IN THEATERS: MARCH 24 When an incredibly inappropriate man learns that his one-time wife adopted out a baby he wasn’t aware he fathered, he finds his former lover and convinces her to join him in discovering their long-lost daughter’s whereabouts.

T2 TRAINSPOTTING DRAMA Director: Danny Boyle Starring: Ewan McGregor, Jonny Lee Miller, Robert Carlyle IN THEATERS: MARCH 31 In this sequel to 1996’s trippy Scottish drug drama, a former heroin addict returns home after more than 20 years and, after reuniting with his old gang, it doesn’t take long for history to begin repeating itself.

THE BOSS BABY

GHOST IN THE SHELL ACTION | SCI-FI Director: Rupert Sanders Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Takeshi Kitano, Pilou Asbæk IN THEATERS: MARCH 31 A cybernetic cop in a skin-tight suit works to disrupt a malicious hacker in this highly anticipated adaptation of the acclaimed manga classic.

Born leader.

COMEDY Director: Tom McGrath Starring: Alec Baldwin, Lisa Kudrow, Jimmy Kimmel IN THEATERS: MARCH 31 A 7-year-old boy investigates the curious case of his younger brother, a briefcase-toting newborn whose wheeling-anddealing ways land the tiny tycoon in the middle of a brazen business conspiracy.

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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P U L S E

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

PRO-FILE

THE

milkyWAY

A LOCAL ARTIST CURATES THE

W

hen it comes to design, few San Diegans know more than Jaime Derringer, the founder and executive editor of acclaimed online magazine Design Milk. Highlighting the best of modern art, architecture, interior design, fashion and technology, Design Milk is sweeping in scope, yet the site constitutes only a small corner of Derringer’s digital empire.

She also oversees sister sites Dog Milk and Adorn Milk, and more recently began hosting her own podcast called Clever. Derringer is also an artist in her own right, her creations appearing in movies and on home-makeover shows on NBC and HGTV. PACIFIC: What were some of your earliest artistic endeavors?

JAIME DERRINGER: I’ve always been creative and interested in the arts.

As a child, I picked the art or craft store over the toy store. I recall trying everything from clay to crochet to calligraphy. I also remember making up dance routines and songs as a kid. I think, deep down inside, I wanted to be an artist, but the logical

DESIGN-MILK.COM @DESIGNMILK 900K FACEBOOK 1.86 MILLION TWITTER 1.5 MILLION INSTAGRAM DOG-MILK.COM @DOGMILK 69K FACEBOOK 12.3K TWITTER 37.4K INSTAGRAM

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CLEVERPODCAST.COM @CLEVERPODCAST 480 FACEBOOK 560 TWITTER 3K INSTAGRAM

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GALAXY OF DESIGN

side of my brain fought to try and keep me on a “sensible” course.

Describe what you do for a living.

No one ever seems to understand what I do. I like to say I own a media company and I run an online magazine. However, that’s very surface. In reality, it’s so much more than that. I have two online magazines (or blogs), an e-commerce website, a podcast and I’m an artist. I do everything from shooting and editing photos to writing and budgeting, ad sales, accounting and marketing. I’m a professional emailer.

What’s your average workday like?

Surprisingly normal. I wake up, take my kid to school, go to my office and work. It just so happens that my office is in my house.

I keep pretty regular business hours, working between 8 a.m. and 5 or 6 p.m., then I try and spend the rest of my day with my family or making art. Some days are crazier or busier than others.

When and why did you launch Design Milk?

Design Milk came about in 2006, at a time when I was at a job I enjoyed, but was restless for something else.

I had job-hopped a lot in my early days, not really having luck finding

ADORN-MILK.COM @ADORNMILK 4K FACEBOOK 698 TWITTER 28K INSTAGRAM

PHOTO BY K.C. ALFRED

the right position. What I didn’t realize at the time was that it wasn’t the jobs that weren’t a good fit. It was me. I wasn’t a good fit for those jobs… I kind of fell into blogging, because it gave me some sense of creativity and of ownership. I was passionate about sofas and paint colors and lamps and rugs, and how things are made, who makes them and their stories… so somehow that manifested itself in the form of Design Milk.

Do you get paid per Instagram post?

The majority of our Instagram posts are unpaid. As a media outlet, it’s our job to curate and share the best stuff in design, regardless of whether we are receiving money. We love sharing and our priority is quality. We disclose when we are working with a partner or receiving any compensation. Our rates vary, depending on the ask.

What about Dog Milk?

Dog Milk is its own animal, so to speak. It was born from my personal love of dogs and the need for a place where modern design lovers could find great dog products. At the time I launched it, there were great pet products coming to market left and right.

Seven years later, it’s still going.

How does Adorn Milk fit into your brand?

Well, it does and it doesn’t. Adorn Milk isn’t a media property; it’s an e-commerce website that sells modern jewelry. The jewelry is all hand-picked by me from designers from all around the world. The idea came from my own personal experiences with people complimenting me on my jewelry and asking me where I bought it.

What do you like to get into when you’re not working?

Everything. I make music, I take Japanese lessons – I studied it in college and am trying to refresh – I am studying Shodo (Japanese calligraphy), I run, I go dancing, I draw and paint with my kid.

What does the future hold for Milk brands?

The future is always wide open – I don’t have a business plan. I typically do everything based on my gut, and, 85 percent of the time, I’m right.

Fifteen percent of the time, I learn a good lesson. We launched a podcast, Clever, last year, so we’re focusing on that and a few other new features.

My focus this year will be on growing Clever and Design Milk, diversifying and enhancing our content.

“I do everything from shooting and editing photos to writing and budgeting, ad sales, accounting and marketing.

I’m a professional emailer.”

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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ALMOST THE CITY’S HOTTEST NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS ARE NEARLY MOVE-IN READY

S

an Diego is building toward the sky, and many of its latest towers are amenity-rich condos and apartments that cater to hip, urban dwellers.

Not to be outdone, nearby Tijuana is in the middle of one of the biggest residential building booms in its modern history. A surplus of condo buildings will soon grace the Mexican city, which might start to look more and more

BY PHILLIP MOLNAR like San Diego.

HOME 50

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T

E

AV8

LITTLE ITALY Any new development in Little Italy is going to get a lot of attention, and AV8 is no exception. The CityMark Development has plenty of amenities, but its main draw is its location in the middle of this bustling hot spot.

Apartments: 132 Project status: Projected completion in January 2018 Rent: Not yet set; average asking rent downtown is $2,197 per month, according to real estate tracker CoStar Amenities • Turf “chill area” to take in views of San Diego Bay • Outdoor kitchen and fireplace, lounge areas, terrace, bocce ball area • Bike garage and pet-wash room • Fine-grain architectural façade with metal panels and contemporary wall tiles AV8 2101-2175 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy 619-231-1161, citymark.com/new-homes/little-italy/

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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THE REY

PHOTOS BY JOHN GIBBINS

CORTEZ HILL Living downtown doesn’t require being immersed in the craziness of the Gaslamp District. The Rey is tucked away in the more peaceful Cortez Hill area and is the latest high-end building in this up-and-coming neighborhood. At 22 stories, the development from Wood Partners and the Berkshire Group is one of San Diego’s largest apartment complexes in years.

Apartments: 478 Project status: now open Rent: $1,765 to $1,815 monthly for a studio; $2,050 to $3,465 monthly for a onebedroom; $2,720 to $3,575 monthly for a two-bedroom Amenities • Rooftop pool with a lounge and kitchen area • Two-story gym • Expansive views for units facing the San Diego-Coronado Bridge • “Eco roof,” a half-acre of succulents and other plants that filter rainwater back into the sewer system and cool the top of the building.

The Rey 801 A St., Cortez Hill 619-678-1778, berkshirecommunities.com/apartments/ca/san-diego/the-rey/

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MILLENNIUM MISSION VALLEY MISSION VALLEY

This Dinerstein Companies complex will span more than five acres and include 9,000 square feet of retail space and a public plaza that had formerly been home to a car dealership and boat-repair company. TCA Architects designed the project, seeking to create a pedestrian-oriented atmosphere.

Apartments: 291 Project status: First units scheduled to open in August; completion expected by November Rent: Not yet set; average asking rent in east Mission Valley is $2,142 per month, according to CoStar

TCA ARCHITECTS

Amenities • Gym, yoga room, dedicated boxing and spin rooms • Outdoor pool and spa, courtyards, rooftop patio • Clubhouse, lounge, kids club, VIP resident area • Proximity to malls, plenty of retail and food options; quick access to freeways • 9,000 square feet of commercial space.

Millennium Mission Valley 5080 Camino Del Arroyo, Mission Valley 832.209.1200, themillennium.com/san-diego-ca/millennium-mission-valley/

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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NORTH CITY SAN MARCOS

A massive planned community, much of which is already built, North City aims to feature student housing, retail and commercial space, a park, a hotel and a college stadium. The developers of the complex, which could eventually include about 3,400 residential units, envision the project as North County’s version of downtown’s Gaslamp District.

Apartments: 197 units comprising Block C opened in October; 68 units in Block K are under construction Project status: The Block K complex may be completed by the end of the year, but a final date is not set Rent: Average $1,675 for a studio; $1,807 for a one-bedroom; $2,173 for a twobedroom; $2,775 for a three-bedroom Amenities • Pool, spa, sundeck with fire pit • A clubhouse with full kitchen • Yoga room and gym • Pet-grooming station • Walkable access to the Sprinter Light Rail and buses • URGE Common House – a 20,000-square-foot warehouse that will include the brewing headquarters for Mason Ale Works, an outdoor biergarten, a 200-seat restaurant, bowling and two bocce ball courts – is slated to open in North City in 2017

North City, San Marcos 310 Campus Way, San Marcos 760.930.7952, northcity.com

PARK 12

EAST VILLAGE Die-hard San Diego Padres fans may want to take a swing at life in Park 12, the 37-story Ballpark Village tower next to Petco Park. Designed by Johnson + Culture, the tower could open as early as December after more than 15 years in development.

Apartments: 720 Project status: Projected completion in December 2017 Rent: Not yet set; average asking rent downtown is $2,197 per month, according to real estate tracker CoStar Amenities • Rooftop pool and outdoor spaces • Onsite restaurants and retail • Upper floors will offer views of the bay and skyline, as well as partial views into Petco Park.

• Pedestrian plaza, with cafe-style seating and public art, which could eventually be home to farmers markets, car shows, bands and other special events Park 12 202 Park Blvd., East Village 858.914.2123, livepark12.com

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ADAMANT TIJUANA TIJUANA

Arguably the flashiest of Tijuana’s new condos, this 32-story tower will stand near Estadio Caliente, the stadium used by the Club Tijuana soccer team. To woo millennials, developer Milk Life Investments is using flashy videos and glossy promotional materials showing models in swimsuits, fashionable young people driving sports cars and parties with people drinking Champagne.

Condos: 180 Projected status: projected completion in December Cost: $77,500 to $191,000; Americans can buy a condo in Tijuana by establishing a renewable 50-year trust with a Mexican bank that typically costs $2,500 or more and requires payment of $500 yearly fee Amenities • Pool terrace and sundeck • Yoga studio and gym • Lounge and game room • Guest suites

Adamant Tijuana Blvd. Agua Caliente 11998, Tijuana 664.104.1351, adamant.mx

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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A L E J A N D R O TA M AY O

COSMOPOLITAN RESIDENCES TIJUANA

Probably the most environmentally friendly new development in Tijuana, Cosmopolitan Residences is aiming to achieve the coveted architectural accolade of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. Only seven buildings in the city have earned the environmental designation, says the U.S. Green Building Council.

Condos: 42 Cost: $400,000 to $700,000 Projected status: Projected completion in December Amenities • Pool, gym, racquetball courts, hot tub, sauna • Reading room and game room • Concierge service • Condos feature walk-in closets, laundry room, dining room, two-tothree bedrooms, balconies and views of the city Cosmopolitan Residences Ave. #2786 Col. Cacho Ensenada, Tijuana, BC 664.634.1271, cosmopolitanresidences.mx

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PACIFIC GATE DOWNTOWN

Sales have already passed the 50-percent mark for Bosa Development’s 41-story Pacific Gate project. Sure to be a visually stunning complex once completed, it is accented by a doublenested curve with a rolling façade at the top of the building that was envisioned by design principal Jamie von Klemperer.

Condos: 215 Project status: Projected completion in December Cost: Starting at $1.1 million Amenities • Outdoor pool, terrace and poolside cabanas • 10,000 square feet of retail and possible restaurant space at the base of the building • Luxury car fleet • Concierge services • Residences offer heated bathroom flooring, a balcony (most units), and smart-home features Pacific Gate Southeast corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway 619.795.3612, pacificgatebybosa.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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ATMOSPHERE CORTEZ HILL

Atmosphere is a 12-story subsidized housing development in Cortez Hill. To live here, individuals and families need to earn at least 60 percent less than the area’s median income.

Apartments: 205 Project status: Anticipated opening by May or early June 2017 Rent: Dependent on income; could range from $405 to $1,226 per month Amenities • Rooftop terrace with barbeque • Computer lab • Trash and recycling chutes • Life-enhancing offerings for residents include adult classes (computer, language, job skills), credit-repair programs, youth programs, community-involvement programs Atmosphere 1453 Fourth Ave., Cortez Hill 619.450.4499, wakelandhdc.com/atmosphere

BELLAMAR POINT LOMA POINT LOMA

While Bellamar Point Loma is a small project, its unique design makes it stand out among new developments in San Diego County. The three-story building will wrap around an intersection on Rosecrans Street. The first floor will be retail and parking, and the top two floors will be luxury apartments with expansive views.

Apartments: 16 Project status: Projected completion in August Rent: Not yet determined; average asking rent in Point Loma is $1,858 per month, according to CoStar Amenities • Community courtyard • Apartments have Zen soaking tubs, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, gas fireplaces and private balconies • Two parking spaces per unit Bellamar Point Loma 1180 Rosecrans St., Point Loma 619.535.7716, bellamarpointloma.com

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41WEST

BANKERS HILL Near Balboa Park, the 10-story 41West stands out as a result of its emphasis on natural light. To let the sunshine in, the units have floor-to ceiling windows and NanaWall bifold doors made of glass.

Condos: 41 Project status: Projected completion in October Cost: $1 million to $4.5 million Amenities • Gym with towel and water service • Dedicated pet-grooming area • Gated underground parking • 24-hour-attended lobby and resident lounge • Residences feature Italian cabinetry, quartz countertops, 10foot ceilings, terraces with gas fire pits (in some units), trash chutes 41West Fifth Avenue and Maple Street 619.483.1041, 41westcondos.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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WHAT UP, HOMES?

HOUSE CALLS, SAN DIEGOSTYLE

A Top Chef’s home kitchen, a master mixologist’s home bar, a stylist-tothe-stars’ home closet, a celebrated interior designer’s home décor and a prominent architect’s, well, home, beg the question — how do professional San Diegans bring their work home? Open their doors and see.

BARTENDER

LUCIEN CONNER

BY MICHAEL JAMES ROCHA

L

ucien Conner co-founded the boutique beverage business Snake Oil Cocktail Co., known for its craft and signature drinks. But when it comes to mixing it up at home, he prefers the simple things in life — bar none.

Conner, who sold his share of the business in 2012, knows his way around a bar for sure, but at home in Bonita, he’ll take a michelada over a chichi cocktail any day.

“It’s my go-to drink,” the 34-year-old Houston native says. “It’s perfect for those San Diego nights when you just want to relax.”

Conner’s now the chief of operations for the growing Puesto empire, which recently added Irvine to its roster of wildly popular Mexican restaurants in La Jolla and downtown San Diego. The Puesto staff call him “jefe,” and when he’s not bossing people around at work, he’s enjoying time with his young family — making Manhattans for his wife, Sarah, or horsing around with his 1-year-old son, Trace.

One of his favorite places in their South County home is the bar, recently completed as part of an ongoing renovation of the 1970s-era house they purchased in 2015. It’s a mix of contemporary and mid-century design — dark walnut cabinetry topped with black leatherfinish granite.

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1.

2.

3.

4.

PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

1.

GET FRESH

Conner’s 2,200-square-foot home sits on the side of a hill with an expansive yard that boasts orange, lemon and avocado trees. Then there are grapevines, basil plants and an out-of-control rosemary bush. That means his homemade cocktails are guaranteed to have the freshest of ingredients.

PUT SOME MUSCLE INTO IT

ALWAYS IN STOCK

2.

3.

Because juices figure prominently in many of Conner’s creations, one of his most treasured bar gadgets is a silver and orange juicer he bought at a market in Tijuana. “It’s definitely a must-have,” he says of the sturdy manual-lever juicer. It’s also available locally at Northgate Markets.

Manual juicer, $30-$40, Northgate González Markets, eight San Diego locations, northgatemarkets.com/en-us

It’s not a Lucien Conner bar without Clamato. “We always have it in stock,” he says. It’s a necessary ingredient for his micheladas. “At the restaurant, we make everything from scratch, and I love that michelada. But I also love the kind I grew up with in Texas: lime juice, Clamato, your choice of hot sauce — I like Tabasco — Jugo Maggi (seasoning sauce), Worcestershire.”

Clamato, $3.99 for a 32-ounce bottle, Gelson’s Market in Del Mar and Pacific Beach, gelsons.com

4.

THAT’S THE SPIRIT

“The most interesting thing about mezcal for me is there’s a huge, huge range of flavor profiles,” Conner says. “You can have one that’s citrus- and smoke- and pepper-driven, and then you can have one that tastes like crazy tropical fruit where the nose is like Fruity Pebbles.” His favorite right now? The whole lineup by El Jolgorio from Oaxaca, Mexico, where his family owns land.

El Jolgorio Mezcal, from $85.99, Old Town Wine and Spirits, 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, oldtowntequila.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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STYLIST

KRISTI BROOKS

BY KARLA PETERSON

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T

he meticulously organized walk-in closet in Kristi Brooks’ Escondido home has room for husband Chris Pennington’s dress shirts and two drawings by 5-yearold daughter Harper. But the rest of it — the 16 shoe shelves, the rack of blouses organized by color and sleeve length, the fuzzy footstool and the family photos — is all Kristi.

The stylist and fashion-show producer believes in thin velvet hangers, vintage Adidas and wearing sequins during the day. But mostly Brooks believes in making your closet your sanctuary. “The closet should be your personal space,” she says. “I want things in here that mean something to me.”

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KRISTI BROOKS STYLED SCOTT EASTWOOD (JULY 2016), DANI MATHERS (FEBRUARY 2016), KATRINA LAW (DECEMBER 2015) AND THE BELLA TWINS (SEPTEMBER 2016) FOR PACIFIC MAGAZINE COVER SHOOTS.

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PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS / HAIR AND MAKEUP BY AMANDA THORNE-PRITCHARD 1.

WATCH THIS

A college graduation gift from Brooks’ parents, this men’s Cartier tank watch gets worn everywhere with everything. “It’s been lived in and loved,” Brooks says.

Men’s Cartier Tank watches, from $2,550, Cartier, cartier.com

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LIGHTEN UP

Two kids plus two dogs equals big love for Le Labo’s woodsy Santal 26 candles. “These cover up the smell of our lives,” Brooks says of her scented stockpile.

Le Labo Santal 26 candle, $75, Le Labo Fragrances, lelabofragrances.com

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IT’S IN THE BAG

Brooks loves her bags, and with the shape-saving help of Innies quilted handbag inserts, they keep loving her back. “These are a must-have,” she says.

Handbag Innies, from $14.99, The Container Store, containerstore.com

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GOOD JEANS

Brooks is obsessed with the fit of Rag & Bone jeans, the skinnier and more distressed the better. No low-riders, please. “Your bits and pieces should all be tucked in,” she says.

Rag & Bone skinny jeans, from $185, Rag & Bone, rag-bone.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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CHEF

RICHARD BLAIS

BY MICHELE PARENTE

I

n the kitchen of his 2,500-square-foot Del Mar beach cottage-chic home, Richard Blais has all the toys worthy of a “Top Chef All-Stars” winner and buzzmaker-in-chief of the expanding Juniper & Ivy/Crack Shack restaurant empire.

He’s got the massive Viking range, a SodaStream carbonation machine, a Vitamix blender, a Robot Coupe food prepper and a KitchenAid mixer.

But he and wife Jazmin are also parents, so there are some real toys around, too. And a couple of stools that allow daughters Riley, 8, and Embry, 6, to stand counterheight while dad whips up everything from a one-pot Taco Tuesday dinner to his trademark molecular madscientist magic.

Besides his incredibly adorable kids, here are some other essentials in Blais’ kitchen:

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PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

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THE BLUE, PERIOD

The one thing Blais can’t live without is his Marseille-blue cast iron enamel Le Creuset bouillabaisse pot, which he got as a gift from Michelin superstar chef Eric Ripert. “It’s beat up, it’s cracked and broken,” he says. “I love it.”

Le Creuset soup pot in Marseille blue, from $140, Le Creuset, lecreuset.com

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ONE FOR THE BOOKS

Blais’ wife drags him to rummage sales and consignment shops, where he always finds something to buy — like a giant pepper grinder he got for $1 at the Aspen Salvation Army store. “And this — it’s a vintage meat grinder and a good bookend,” he says.

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FREEZE FRAME

No molecular gastronomist worth his agar-agar (vegetable protein derived from algae) would be without liquid nitrogen. Blais has a 10-liter tank.

To his daughters’ delight, he can instantly transform vanilla, eggs, milk and sugar into a smoke-filled bowl of ice cream. “When Riley was 1 or 2, she put her hand in the liquid nitrogen, so that was a molecular gastronomy dad fail,” he says.

10-liter liquid nitrogen tanks, from about $300, Amazon, amazon.com

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GOING TO POT

As a 20-something (and 75-pounds-heavier) chef, Blais made a pilgrimage to E. Dehillerin, the legendary Parisian cookware shop. With his set of 10 new copper pots, he was forced to walk 10 miles because of a transit strike. “There I was, a sweaty, pale, chubby chef with all these pots,” he says.

E. Dehillerin copper pots, from around $30, E. Dehillerin, e-dehillerin.fr

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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INTERIOR DESIGNER

KELLY HINCHMAN

BY LIZ BOWEN

K

elly Hinchman knew she wanted to be a designer from an early age. She studied at Design Institute of San Diego, where she earned her bachelor of fine arts degree, she later founded the San Diegobased Studio H Design Group, which has completed residential and commercial projects nationwide.

Recently, her firm was hired to oversee design of Barracks Hotel in Liberty Station, a boutique hotel set to open in mid-2018. The project is part of a plan to transform the former naval training center housing in Point Loma.

Modern meets vintage at Hinchman’s home, an 860-square-foot, one-bedroom, onebathroom apartment in Cortez Hill.

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PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

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FLOORED ME

“I just got this new rug and I adore it,” Hinchman says of her Isabella rug from The Rug Company. “I just love it in the room.” The rug is made of hand-knotted Tibetan wool.

Lorenzo Castillo’s handmade Isabella rug, from $85 per square foot, The Rug Company, therugcompany.com/us

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PICTURE THIS

An original work by Brazilian typographic artist and graphic designer Yomar Augusto, who has a studio in the Gaslamp Quarter, hangs in Hinchman’s living room.

“I love that his work contains such depth,” Hinchman says. “Every time I look at it, I see something I haven’t seen before.”

Yomar Augusto artwork, prices vary, yomaraugusto.com

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ON FIRE

“This candle is fig-scented, and I love that,” Hinchman says. “I got mine from Paris, but you can purchase these all over.”

Diptyque Figuier Candle, $62, Barneys, barneys.com

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LET THERE BE LIGHT

Hinchman purchased this light fixture by Parisian designer Constance Guisset at the Museum of Modern Art store. “I was inspired by seeing this fixture in historical homes with modern furnishings,” she says. “It felt really right in this space. I feel like the scale is great in here, especially because I always say that bigger is better.”

Vertigo pendant lamp, $995, MoMA Store, store.moma.org

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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KEVIN DEFREITAS

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

B

orn and raised in San Diego, architect Kevin deFreitas designed many of the county’s most attractive buildings, but perhaps the one that means the most to him is his family’s Point Loma home, which he constructed with the help of his father.

“It took about 20 months and we did it together,” deFreitas says. “He knows how to use tools, and I don’t. So my biggest skill on the project was just writing checks. It was a fun experience.”

The shotgun-style (narrow, rectangular) house measures 18 feet wide by about 90 feet long and offers an insane view of downtown. Constructed using sustainable materials, it uses solar energy to generate 80 percent of its own power and heat 100 percent of its hot water. It’s flooded with natural light and has 40 feet of sliding glass doors that open to the backyard, creating a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors.

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D AV I D H A R R I S O N

ARCHITECT

ROBERT BENSON

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LENN CORMIER

D AV I D H A R R I S O N

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OPEN-DOOR POLICY

“All summer, the doors are open,” deFreitas says.

“We’ve got a couple of cats, a couple of dogs, chickens and kids and neighbors. Everyone just comes and goes. It’s super-casual Southern California living.”

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NO PANE, NO GAIN

“We salvaged some windows from the Teledyne Ryan factory that used to be on Lindbergh Field,” deFreitas says. “That’s where B-24 Liberators were made during the war. The house that was originally here was owned by a test pilot for Teledyne Ryan who flew that airplane, so it’s this cool full circle.”

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SKY WALKER

“Originally, the house was just a long bar, with my home office and the garage as a separate structure,” deFreitas says. “The city said it looked like two homes on one lot, and I had to connect them. Now, this skybridge connects on the upper level.”

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SEE THE LIGHT

D AV I D H A R R I S O N

“Because of the way it invites light in, the house totally changes with the seasons,” deFreitas says. “There are always shadows from the trees on the floor and walls.

It’s like a simple, natural canvas that’s always changing.”

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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TASTE

DINING OUT / ATE IS ENOUGH

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BY PAM KRAGEN

MARCH

ZACK BENSON

Ate is Enough EIGHT RESTAURANTS THAT LOOK GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT

Over the past decade, San Diego has become home to dozens of quirky, trendy restaurants that offer a feast for the eyes. Many of these culinary jewels come from the creative brain trust at Paul Basile Studio. The 23-year-old design business is a one-stop shop that imagines, fabricates and installs its work at projects that are perennial winners of the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s Orchid awards. Here are eight of founder Paul Basile’s favorite projects from the past few years – each paired with a dish as satisfying as its venue’s design. >>>

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CRAFT AND COMMERCE & FALSE IDOL LITTLE ITALY REVAMPED RESTAURANT AND HIDDEN TIKI BAR HAVE A PROHIBITION INSPIRATION

“When the new ground-floor space became available next to the original Craft & Commerce, our client decided to expand their Little Italy institution,” Basile says. “By combining the more hunterly aspects of Teddy Roosevelt with the literary drive of Ernest Hemingway, we created a narrative that established our design’s historical foundation where museum-quality taxidermy mixes with our client’s large book collection. The expansion opened up enough space for our client to create a new world-class tiki bar, and its secret entrance is through the new Craft & Commerce working freezer, where you move from the freezing cold into a tropical oasis in just a few illicit steps.” Opened in 2016.

PAIRS WITH: Marinated in Aji Chili, the Spanish-influenced bone-in Tomahawk pork chop is served with a corn sauté, black beans and salsa verde.

ARLENE IBARRA

675 West Beech St., Little Italy 619.269.2202, craft-commerce.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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TA ST E DINING OUT

A U D A & C O U D AY R E P H O T O G R A P H Y

NORTH PARK BEER CO. NORTH PARK CRAFTSMAN MEETS MODERNISM IN THIS BEER TASTING ROOM

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“Originally a department store, the 8,600-square-foot space has been reimagined as a community gathering place and craft beer mecca,” Basile says. “Taking cues from the neighborhood’s Arts and Crafts architectural aesthetic and the building’s 1946 MidCentury original shell, the design’s standout feature is the Irving Gill-inspired, 43-foot stained white oak back bar, complete with hammered copper detailing, etched backlit mirrors, custom taps, and capped with wood tambour.” Opened in 2016.

PAIRS WITH: The Pork Nugs (bottom left in inset photo) are bite-size flavor bombs of crispy pork belly, gochujang glaze, sesame seeds, peanuts, pineapple, jicama salad, fried potatoes, harissa aioli, cotija cheese and cilantro.

3038 University Ave., North Park, 619.255.2946, northparkbeerco.com

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>>>

TA ST E DINING OUT

KINDRED SOUTH PARK EDGY VEGAN ROCK ‘N’ ROLL BAR

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“French Gothic details meet heavy-metal influences at this edgy vegan restaurant,” Basile says. “Nearly every feature was custom-made for Kindred, including an LED backlit, mirrored, coffered ceiling; 10-foot arched flip windows; and a 900-pound, black, four-eyed wolf sculpture. But our take on the 19th Century French tête-à-tête (a classic S-shaped couch design that’s used here for six one-person tables) rocks us just as much as the heavy metal.” Opened in 2016.

PAIRS WITH: Behold comfort and satiation on a plate. The Soul Crush is cornmeal-crusted Gardein (meat substitute) with celery root, parsnip truffle mash, grilled broccolini, creamy beer mac and tomato lemongrass velouté (cream sauce).

1503 30th St., South Park, 619.546.9653, barkindred.com

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>>>

TA ST E DINING OUT

FAMILY-FRIENDLY AND PLAYFUL

PAIRS WITH: The menu is comprised of different types of meatballs. The meat, ground in an old-fashioned butcher shop setting, is available in basic or “smashed” meatball form. Flavors include chicken, pork, beef, chorizo and vegan alternatives. A variety of savory sauces, including marinara, mushroom cream, chipotle and primavera, are then added, with a finishing touch of cheese, if preferred.

Liberty Station, 2750 Dewey Rd., #104, Liberty Station, 619.501.9989, sodaandswine.com

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JOHN DOLE

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“Located in the historic Point Loma development previously used as a naval training base, our design for Soda & Swine Liberty Station balances references to the structure’s history with a sense of familyfriendly playfulness, epitomized by our 20-foot custom foosball table topped with a brass and stainless steel light fixture,” Basile says. Opened in 2015.

ZACK BENSON

SODA & SWINE LIBERTY STATION

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IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER LITTLE ITALY WHERE CLASSIC NAUTICAL DÉCOR AND THE 1920s MEET

“Ironside’s nautical design concept is a celebration of San Diego’s history as a major U.S. seaport and fishing capital. A huge 1920s-era warehouse, originally home to Ironside Metal Works, provided a rich architectural canvas with which to work. We created four separateyet-connected eating areas, each offering a new visual at every turn. With our design of the ‘Lovebird’ plasma-cut swiveling seats, we hoped to encourage unexpected social interactions.” Opened in 2014.

PAIRS WITH: A play on the classic East Coast mainstay, Ironside’s Lobster Roll boasts a unique, West Coast spin. With a large serving of lobster in every sandwich served in a soft, buttery, housemade roll, the Lobster Roll serves up a chunk of decadent goodness right on your plate.

1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033, ironsidefishandoyster.com

>>>

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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ZACK BENSON

TA ST E DINING OUT

A U D A & C O U D AY R E P H O T O G R A P H Y

UNDERBELLY NORTH PARK STREETSIDE JAPANESE-INSPIRED MINIMALISM

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ANDY BOYD

“UnderBelly North Park’s design installation seamlessly blends into the minimalist aesthetic of its home at the North Parker, a new mixed-use development in San Diego. Taken as a whole, the LEDbacklit radiata pine panels, arranged in an intricate overlapping grid system, become a graphic representation guiding diners to and from the ramen and yakitori bars.” Opened in 2014.

PAIRS WITH: UnderBelly serves a beastly concoction that pays homage to the traditional Japanese ramen-ya. Topped with an oxtail dumpling, soy- and ginger-marinated smoked brisket, and a hoison-glazed short rib, the Belly of the Beast Ramen is garnished with a soft-boiled egg, bean sprouts, scallions, seaweed, sesame seeds and, of course, served sans spoon.

3000 Upas St., North Park, 619.487.9909, godblessunderbelly.com

POLITE PROVISIONS NORTH PARK CLASSIC COCKTAILS IN A RETRO-CHIC ENVIRONMENT

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“When approached by our client with the concept of an intellectually stimulating, 1930s pharmacy- and soda-fountain-inspired bar in San Diego’s University Heights neighborhood, we immediately went to work on reinforcing the site’s neglected 1920s structure. Numerous custom details lend themselves to its vintage vibe, including the custom state-of-the-art 46-tap system that serves beer, wine, spirits and coffee.” Opened in 2013.

PAIRS WITH: The Mr. Brownstone combines Irish whiskey and Fat Bear’s Cinnamon Soda for warm notes of caramel and oak accented by deep Indonesian cinnamon.

4696 30th St., North Park, 619.677.3784, politeprovisions.com

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>>>

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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TA ST E DINING OUT

EDUARDO CONTRERAS

ate

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TAJIMA RAMEN EAST VILLAGE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE AESTHETIC IN A MODERN CONTEXT “Our design is our visual interpretation of Tajima’s values: tradition and authenticity in a modern context. We achieved this by fusing traditional Japanese elements with modern overtures. The wallpaper’s modern black background heightens the overlaid Japanese motif, while the bar and communal dining tables feature Carrara marble and blackened cedar interlocking in a repeating pattern inspired by classic Japanese woodworking techniques. Our favorite feature has to be the exterior storefront of the kitchen, which creates a series of peek-a-boo windows that offer a glimpse into the chef’s artistry in action.” Opened in 2016.

PAIRS WITH: The spicy sesame ramen bowl is made with Tonkotsu (pork) soup, ground pork, chives, bean sprouts, pork chashu or chicken chashu, half of a ramen egg and fried garlic.

901 E St., East Village, 619.431.5820, tajimasandiego.com

A U D A & C O U D AY R E P H O T O G R A P H Y

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AwArd-winning Burgers, Hot dogs & MAc ‘n cHeese • over 150 Beers • 20+ screens

MARCH HOOPS $10 $10 HOT HOT DOG & DOMESTIC DRAUGHT DRAUGHT PINT PINT

NOT TO BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER, DISCOUNT, HAPPY HOUR OR PROMOTION. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER & PER VISIT. VALID FOR ONE HOT DOG & ONE DOMESTIC DRAUGHT PINT BEER. DINE IN ONLY. VALID THROUGH MARCH 31, 2017.

S AN D I E G O | 3 2 2 5 T H AVE N U E | S A N D IE GO C A 9 2 1 01 | C O L D B E E R S .C O M | 61 9. 5 4 6. 92 92

FB:COLDBEERSANDCHEESEBURGERSSANDIEGO | TWITTER@CBCBSANDIEGO | IG:COLDBEERSANDCHEESEBURGERSCA

Passionate Winemakers Sustainable Vineyards Exclusive Imports

Wine Wednesdays Join us on Wednesday evenings from 6–9 PM at our tasting room located upstairs at The Lion’s Share (629 Kettner Blvd.) to sample, taste, and purchase our Vineyard to Table selections from Italy, France, Spain and California.

$16 for 8 tastes $10 for 5 tastes

www.quigleyfinewines.com | 619-795-7043 @PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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TA ST E

BY DAVID NELSON

CHEF PROFILE

HOME’S COOL

F

ollowing her graduation from Scripps Ranch High School, Giselle Wellman considered two

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career options – both of which involved knives. On one hand, she contemplated picking up a scalpel and pursuing the study of medicine; her other choice was grabbing a kitchen knife and cutting her chops in the culinary arts. Wellman took a stab at the latter and has been honing her skills as a professional chef ever since.

Chef of Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen in Little Italy, which opened in mid-2016, Wellman shares traits common among her peers: she loves the kitchen, can’t work hard

enough and wouldn’t consider doing anything else. The sweat, long hours and occasional battles that keep kitchens lively have paid off in the form of her being recruited by internationally known restaurateurs and appearing on cable television’s “Top Chef.”

She’s happy she didn’t become a physician.

“I was trying to go to night school to become a doctor and found zero-to-none motivation, which is a red flag,” she says.

“When I want to do something, I

have all the drive to do it.”

Wellman is a San Diego native.

Her family hails from Mexico City, which she has visited often enough to say, “I feel Latin myself.”

Her family is Jewish, and, in high school, she joined her mother and Aunt Jenny in the kitchen every Friday to prepare special Shabbat (sabbath) dinners. Aunt Jenny, she says, inspired her passion for making food.

“I had an instinct for cooking, and not everybody is born with the palate to balance flavors,” she says,

PHOTOS BY NELVIN C. CEPEDA

HOW HOUSEHOLD TRADITIONS HELPED PREPARE A CULINARY CAREER

adding that her mother’s dishes were typically under-seasoned.

After a year at Mexico City’s Cordon Bleu culinary academy, Wellman returned home to cook at San Diego fine-dining legend Star of the Sea, where chef Jesse Paul, now owner of Escondido’s The Wooden Spoon, offered “the best advice in my career.”

He recommended she skip cooking school.

“He said to me, ‘You’re in the door. Work for the most respected chefs in the industry and go after

what you want.’”

And so she did, bouncing between the coasts, working for superstars like Thomas Keller at Bar Bouchon in Los Angeles; and Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Mario Batali, and Lidia and Joe Bastianich in New York.

Asked how to score a job with Batali, Wellman responds, “You walk in the door and say, ‘I’m looking for a job.’ I had a great resume.” She then was “24 or 25 and really hungry to work,” which explains how, in 2010, she became

L.A.’s youngest female finedining chef when hired by West Hollywood’s famed Petrossian Paris restaurant. This distinction caused “Top Chef” to pursue her for five years.

“I kept saying ‘no,’” she says.

Then, in 2015 her aunt died suddenly.

“One month later, I was on my way to ‘Top Chef,’ a show that makes you extremely vulnerable, and I arrived extremely vulnerable,” she says. She didn’t get far, but says it was a positive

experience.

Now back in her hometown, Wellman says her goal at Pacific Standard is to present a neighborhood restaurant where everything is warm and welcoming.

A menu rich in well-considered flavors fulfills her hope that “Pacific Standard feels like home.”

PACIFIC STANDARD COASTAL KITCHEN 2137 Pacific Coast Hwy., Little Italy 619-819-0090, pacificstandardrestaurant.com

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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TA ST E

BY BRANDON HERNÁNDEZ

BEER

TAKEIT FROM THETAP

A MONTHLY TASTE OF BEER FROM HERE

MEET YOUR MAKER

Brewmaster

Q&A

E

arly in his career, Brian Mitchell gained experience and his fair share of frustrations brewing other people’s recipes at Helm’s Brewing Company and since-shuttered La Jolla Brew House. After moving on to the small-batch team at Stone Brewing, he began working toward a dream he’d fostered since 2010 — opening his own brewery. Now, that den of outlandish beers, Pariah Brewing Company, is open for business at North Park’s Brewery Igniter complex (which also houses J&L Eppig Brewing and San Diego Brewing Company). Mitchell describes his tasting room as a place where both Lewis Carroll and Jack the Ripper would feel comfortable: something weird and mismatched, sophisticated OWNER & BREWMASTER yet warm. It’s an PARIAH BREWING CO. interesting place forged by an NORTH PARK equally interesting craftsman. >>>

BRIAN MITCHELL

PHOTOS BY HOWARD LIPIN 84

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TA ST E BEER

DO ME A FLAVOR

new beers to cheers

SOLANA BEACH IPA

Behind the beer-making scenes at North Park’s new Pariah Brewing Company.

MEET YOUR MAKER

BREWMASTER

PACIFIC: What does the name Pariah signify?

Brian Mitchell: The word “pariah” means self-reliance, self-awareness and selfassessment even in the company of haters, so we decided to put it on the door. Even in our logo, the “i” was emphasized so as to let anyone know they’re not in for the norm, and we fully embrace our uniqueness. We self-govern and that’s that.

Nothing we’ll do won’t be something we’re not in love with and it’s up to others to decide if they love it as well.

Explain your brewing approach and beers.

For us, no practice is sacred.

We’ll brew with anything that’s legal, unique and tastes good.

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Our initial beer lineup is Off White Wit, a Belgian wheat beer inspired by Boba tea; a beer-wine-mead hybrid named Erotic City; a foreign extra stout brewed with cacao nibs, molasses and coffee called Dorcha Extra Stout; an IPA brewed with hop oil and flesh from mangoes and peaches; and a hop-bursted West Coast IPA aptly named Dank Drank.

Why did you choose to build your passion project in North Park?

We love North Park! Threefourths of our staff lives here. When the cabaret that previously occupied this building closed down, I said, “Damn, that would make an awesome brewery.” Now, it’s three completely different

breweries. The Brewery Igniter model is what has made owning a brewery of this scale possible and allows us to better stretch our wings.

What’s it like having a brewery on either side of yours?

We love it! We’re all so different that we think it truly offers an amazing way to experience San Diego craft beer. Eppig is making some amazing lagers, San Diego Brewing is making some amazing classics, and we get to sit right in the middle being weirdos.

PARIAH BREWING COMPANY, 3052 El Cajon Blvd., Suite B, North Park. pariahbrewingco.com

It’s not every day that a local business hits the big three-zero. In fact, in the history of San Diego breweries, that’s never occurred. So it’s no wonder the coastal, pie-fueled brewpub-chain Pizza Port is going big by canning one of the most popular beers from its original brewhouse for the first time. Be on the lookout for this hop-forward offering, which will be available in aluminum at Pizza Port’s Solana Beach location on March 25. Word has it that a special double IPA brewed by owner Vince Marsaglia will also be tapped! Happy birthday to … you!

Pizza Port, 135 N. Highway 101, Solana Beach, pizzaport.com

UNITE LOCAL A women’s movement has been brewing in the beer industry, and it’s been wildly successful thanks to groups such as the locally governed Pink Boots Society and efforts such as International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day. For the latter, held on March 8, female brewers the world over will be infusing regionally significant ingredients and character into a base beer-recipe dubbed “Unite Local.” The resulting ales will convey camaraderie and pride via myriad flavorful quaffs, all of which can be located with a quick visit to unitebrew.org.

Multiple breweries, countywide >>>

TA ST E BEER

COMING TO A HEAD LET’S GO TO THE HOPS

March BEER EVENTS

what’s new in brew or coming soon

MARCH 2 | FERMENTED PAIRINGS SERIES

KILOWATT WEST

Ever enjoyed a bacon-whiskey truffle and an imperial stout fermented with 96 different yeast strains? Allow the yeast and beer experts at White Labs to guide you through a tasting of diverse beers partnered with treats from Andrea’s Truffles, and you’ll be able to say you have.

White Labs, 9495 Candida St., Miramar, whitelabs.com

A multitude of brewing companies are setting up shop in Ocean Beach, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a tasting room (or another business short of a head shop) that better embodies San Diego’s quirkiest coastal community than this newcomer, thanks to colorful LED lighting, murals and pro-graffiti from local artists, a blacklight lounge with a life-size Lite-Brite and authentic pieces from Clint Cary, aka The Spaceman of OB. And, oh yeah, there are 24 taps’ worth of beers infused with ingredients both traditional and as out-there as Kilowatt Brewing’s newest stomping grounds. The original location is still going strong in Kearny Mesa.

1875 Cable St., Ocean Beach, kilowatt.beer

JACKED UP BREWERY

MARCH 11 | BEST COAST BEER FEST Will Ferrell (Ron Burgundy to “San Diego-ites”) is behind this annual suds celebration, which serves as a musicenhanced vehicle to raise awareness and funds for Cancer for College, a nonprofit providing cancer survivors access to higher education.

Embarcadero Marina Park South, 200 Marina Park Way, downtown, bestcoastbeerfest.com

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Life on Escondido’s Grand Avenue is about to get even grander thanks to the addition of a new nano-brewery, the motto of which is “brew, drink, relax, repeat.” Ten taps dispense the pro-products of a pair of former homebrewers taking their recreational pursuit to the next level. Those creations include a Czech-style lager, amber ale, smoked porter, Belgian-style dark strong ale and, of course, an IPA. This diversity showcases one of the big advantages to operating a small brewery — the ability to have fun and let a brewer’s imagination run wild.

800 W. Grand Ave., Escondido, jackedupbrewery.com

401 G Street | San Diego | 619.230.8606 | @tinroofsandiego.com

Decadent. Modern. Timeless.

Happy Hour (Bar Area) Sun - Fri 3 - 6pm $3 - $6 Select Small Plates & Bottled Beers $4 Draft Beer & Well Cocktails $4 Off Greek Wine Taco Tuesdays Happy Hour $3 - $6 Tacos Wine Wednesdays (6 - 11pm) Half Off All Bottles of Wine Live Music Wednesdays (6 - 10pm) & Fridays (10pm - close)

Instagram.com/gaslampMeze Twitter.com/gaslampMeze Facebook.com/gaslampMeze

R E S TA U R A N T

BAR

LOUNGE

E N T E RTA I N M E N T

345 6TH AVE. GASLAMP 619.550.1600 GASLAMPMEZE.COM

@PACIFICSD | MARCH 2017

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TA ST E DRINK

Soaking in the Site

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

HIGH-DESIGN HOT SPOT ROLLS OUT NEW COCKTAIL PROGRAM

W

ith its soaring ceiling, cedar walls and immersive geometric accents, Madison on Park sparkles as one of San Diego’s most aesthetically appealing eateries. Since bursting onto the University Heights scene at the end of 2015, this upscale yet approachable restaurant has dropped innumerable jaws with its astonishing design and thrilled endless taste buds with its tantalizing, Mediterraneanstyle plates. And, as if there weren’t already enough reasons to swing by this

drinks to their liking. The experience is akin to nightclub table service, but with an elevated twist thanks to the specialty, barrel-aged cocktails.

“I personally love the barrel-aged Mezcal Old Fashioned,” Sieve says.

“We use chocolate bitters and blue agave to complete the outfit. It’s beautiful. The Woodsmen is also a favorite. Using Bulliet Rye, Fernet and Allspice Dram, it’s a great winter sipper.”

There’s more.

“There are lots of bourbon and mezcal additions, too,” Sieve says.

“Both spirits contain depth very much like wine. And the barrel-aging adds another layer to the spirit or cocktail that smooths and rounds out the drink, while adding some really nice oak notes.”

swanky Uptown spot, Madison’s new barrel-aged cocktail program offers an additional excuse to spend a night out in their spacious dining room.

“Our ambiance lends itself to drinking Old Fashioneds and other classic cocktails,” says Matt Sieve, Madison’s general manager. “It was a natural progression. We’re just adding onto our existing program of elegantly constructed classic cocktails.”

The restaurant’s innovative new table service includes any of six distinct barrel-aged cocktails delivered to customers’ tables in 1-liter barrels, containing up to 13 drinks. Oversized ice cubes, creative glassware and fresh garnishes arrive alongside the beverage bounty, giving patrons the freedom to tweak

From a visual-appeal standpoint, the meticulous attention Madison pays to its elegant décor mirrors the care the restaurant devotes to its cocktail program.

“Madison’s design, much like its menu, seeks to approach guests and offer something new, yet comfortable; exciting, and at the same time, classic,” Sieve says. “And where else can you get an amazing, elegant cocktail for under $10 in a design this beautiful?”

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MADISON ON PARK 4622 Park Blvd., University Heights 619.269.6566, madisononpark.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY K.C. ALFRED

“Madison bar and restaurant design pulls from mid-century modern and Italian design traditions.

Function leads the design, while clean lines and local wood species define the space. Madison is divided between a cozy, bar-centric space and a dramatically high-arched cedar-lined dining room with sky views and intricate wood joinery. Further, the use of a sitespecific rope installation, reminiscent of guitar or harp strings, is … used to partition the cozy booths in the bar area. The new Madison storefront is almost post-modern in its playful replication of the Victorianera storefronts throughout San Diego; streamlined and painted in a single wash of sky blue, it is both eyecatching and inviting. Throughout the rest of the cedardominated space, color is contrasted with colorful geometric wood puzzles that function both as the walls and the art in much of the space.”

— Anna and David Sindelar, the wife-and-husband design/build team behind ARCHISECTS, the firm responsible for Madison’s majesty. The Sindelars’ work on the restaurant was celebrated in October, when Madison won an Orchid for Interior Design at the 40th Annual Orchids & Onions Awards hosted by the San Diego Architectural Foundation.

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TA ST E BARTENDER

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

h c n e r F s s i l B

A BARTENDER FINDS PARADISE, THE PERFECT PLACE TO PRACTICE HIS POUR ne of North County’s most elegantly adorned restaurants is also one of its newest. Since throwing open Ponsaty’s doors in Rancho Santa Fe last summer, French Master Chef Patrick Ponsaty and his team have pleased a plethora of palates in their decadent dining room. But it’s not only the decor or the modern take on French cuisine that’s creating a commotion. The cocktail concoctions available at the bar are also causing quite a stir.

The brains behind the bar’s mouthwatering menu? San Diego native Kevin Ashe. With more than a decade of experience in the local hospitality scene, he worked his way up from server (cutting his teeth at venues including Donovan’s Steak and Chop House), recently perfecting his pour at The Patio on Goldfinch. Now, Ashe manages the bar at Ponsaty’s (and its sister restaurant, Bellamy’s), where he designs the cocktail list, handpicks all the spirits and beer, and trains the staff in an effort to standardize everything.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY K.C. ALFRED PACIFIC: What’s your favorite thing about working at Ponsaty’s?

KEVIN ASHE: I love the experience offered here. Our chef has been around the world and has Michelin stars under his belt. He’s really well-known. And I love working with people who have passion, because it’s my goal to work with passion in everything I do. We also work with quality ingredients, and I get given those tools, which makes my job a lot easier.

How would you describe the decor at Ponsaty’s?

It’s very modern, but approachable as well. You can come in dressed to the nines like you’re going out to a ball or symphony, in a black tie and suit. Or you can come in after a day of playing golf and be in your hat, sit at the bar, have a good drink and listen to some nice local music. We offer something for everyone.

What are the influences behind your cocktail program?

It’s neat because, with Chef Ponsaty, he’s constantly changing the menu with the season. So, with my program, I try to keep up with him as far as finding out what type of herbs he’s bringing into the kitchen and tasting the food. And I try to tailor my cocktails to that. I want something approachable, but a little bit different.

Which cocktails do you recommend first-time guests try?

I just put together a chocolate and black truffle Old Fashioned.

I really like it. It gives you this robust flavor, but stays true to what an Old Fashioned is. Another cocktail we do is called the Vous Etes Magnifique, it means ‘you are beautiful,’ in French. It’s basically a vodka gimlet, but we use fresh basil that gives it a beautiful green color.

What do you love about the menu?

There are a lot of different influences as far as modern food, but we stick to traditional dishes and let the ingredients speak for themselves. We prepare beautiful quality fish and use the best

ingredients, fresh herbs and all that. I’m a firm believer that the only way you can make something truly exceptional is if you have exceptional ingredients.

What’s your favorite menu item?

The Cote de Boeuf for Two, which is a giant wet-aged ribeye.

It’s a beautiful cut of meat that’s organically fed and humanely raised.

It’s nice because the servers bring it out to the table before they cook it, so you can see the marbling in the steak and the beautiful bone coming out of it. I’m a red-meat guy, so it doesn’t get any better than that.

What food-drink pairing do you suggest for first-time guests?

The Chef’s Mount Meadow Mushroom Ravioli. It has a port wine reduction with a little bit of veal stock, and we use these beautiful fresh mushrooms. You can’t beat it. I like to pair it with a Black Manhattan, which is true to the regular recipe, except I use an amaro (citrus liqueur) called Averna.

It gives the drink more complexity of flavor and is a bit more herby. It comes out a beautiful dark color, which is why we call it a Black Manhattan.

How do you spend your time outside of Ponsaty’s?

Honestly, I do a lot of reading.

That’s how I got where I am now. I reference a lot of great bartenders.

I’ll read books on bartending, food, anything that pertains to flavor profiles. At one time, I thought I was going to be a chef, but I realized I really like working with people, so bartending was my bridge to do so.

What’s most important to you in life?

I’m really about family, local businesses and promoting what it is that we offer in the areas that we come from. I think that’s the best way to truly represent ourselves.

PONSATY’S FINE DINING + LOUNGE 6106 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe 858.771.1871, ponsatys.com

ASHE’S TO ASHE’S SIDE DISH WITH BARTENDER KEVIN ASHE PACIFIC: What quote do you try to live by?

ASHE: “A little anarchy is good for the soul.”

Got any heroes?

Jerry Thomas. The guy basically built the forum for modern bartending.

What’s your spirit animal?

The falcon Current favorite song?

No Diggity by Chet Faker Favorite movie?

The Shining Favorite book?

Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises

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GROOVE

SOUND DECISIONS / CONCERT CALENDAR

MARCH

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

Desert

Daze Caravan @ BELLY UP TAVERN, BELLYUP.COM Named after the annual California festival, this solid lineup of Temples (pictured), Night Beats, Deap Vally, and JJUUJJUU is sure to keep heads banging and third eyes open. >>>

3.5

ED MILES

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G R O OV E

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

SOUND DECISIONS

SOUNDS

LIKE A PLAN

MARCH CONCERT CALENDAR

3.6&7 NIKKI FENIX

THE SHINS @ OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK, OBSERVATORYSD.COM P H O T O S B Y: A . K R I S T I N B U R N S ; C . J I L L F U R M A N O V S K Y; E . S T E V E K E R O S ; H . N I C O L E M A G O ; J . S T E V E N C O H E N ; K . N AT E R YA N

James Mercer brings The Shins back to life. This month brings the release of “Heartworms,” the band’s fifth studio album.

Unfortunately, both nights in San Diego are sold out.

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B.

C.

D.

JAMES WHITE

BLAKE 3.11 SHELTON @ VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER, VALLEYVIEWCASINOCENTER.COM

E.

Recent winning team captain on season 11 of “The Voice,” Shelton released “If I’m Honest,” his 10th studio album, last year.

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3.2: Stevie Nicks

@ Viejas Arena, viejasarena.com It’s a double-dose of rock royalty as Stevie Nicks runs through a career of hits from both Fleetwood Mac and her own catalog, while Chrissie Hynde’s Pretenders open the show.

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D.

3.3: Redwoods Revue

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Catch some of San Diego’s best bands in one fell swoop. Birdy Bardot, Dani Bell & The Tarantist, Rebecca Jade and the Cold Fact, The Midnight Pine, and Cardinal Moon are all scheduled to perform.

3.3: Senses Fail

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The New Jersey emo quintet kicks off a run of 15th anniversary shows in San Diego. The tour will feature the band playing their 2006 album, “Still Searching,” in its entirety.

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3.3: Pretenders

@ Pechanga, pechanga.com Didn’t get enough “Brass in Pocket” from Hynde’s opening set with Stevie Nicks the night before?

Head north to see even more hits, as well as new tracks from the band’s Dan Auerbach-produced album, “Alone.”

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3.5: Red Hot Chili Peppers

@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com Tickets are already gone for this sold-out RHCP show. But if you can somehow procure one, you’ll also get to see Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, as well as original RHCP drummer Jack Irons.

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same name — the band’s first-ever without guitarist Richie Sambora.

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3.5&6: Chase Rice

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The North Carolina-raised, Tennessee-based, one-time “Survivor” contestant released his latest single, “Everybody We Know Does,” last summer.

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The legendary Mike Ness-fronted outfit turns 40 next year.

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3.9: Bash & Pop

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com The Replacements’ Tommy Stinson released one album with Bash & Pop in 1993 before the band broke up a year later. With a new record (January’s “Anything Could Happen”) and a new band behind him, he’s giving it another go.

3.8: Blackalicious

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com The Gift of Gab and Chief Xcel are back on the road again after releasing 2015’s “Imani Vol. 1,” the first of a supposed threealbum series.

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3.10: P.O.S.

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Part of Minneapolis-based hip-hop collective Doomtree, P.O.S. (aka Stefon Alexander) released a new album, “Chill, Dummy,” last month.

3.5: Bon Jovi

@ Viejas Arena, viejasarena.com The real mayor of New Jersey takes his band out (which will turn 35 next year!) for the “This House Is Not For Sale” world tour. The 40-date run is based on their 2016 album of the

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3.8&9: Social Distortion

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Southern California’s finest rockabilly punks return to San Diego for a pair of sold-out shows.

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3.10: Plain White T’s

@ Casino Pauma, casinopauma.com The Illinois-based band best known for “Hey There Delilah” released their seventh studio album last year, “American Nights.” >>>

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G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS P H O T O S B Y: B. LEIGH RIGHTON; D. CHARLES WRZESNIEWSKI; E. DONALD MILN; I. MEGAN THOMPSON

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B.

C.

A.

3.24

COMMON

@ OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK, OBSERVATORYSD.COM The Chicago-based rapper, actor and producer worked with Stevie Wonder and John Legend on his latest release, November’s “Black America Again.”

3.10: Ghostface Killah

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The Wu-Tang Clan MC’s last record, 2015’s “Twelve Reasons to Die II,” featured appearances from Vince Staples, Lyrics Born, RZA and Raekwon.

B.

3.11: Japandroids

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com This sold-out show is part of a tour to support the Canadian rock duo’s latest album, “Near to the Wild Heart of Life” — their five-years-in-themaking third release.

3.11-12: G. Love & Special Sauce C.

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com A double dip from Philly’s “trashcan blues” trio — together again as part of their Hip-Hop Blues Winter Tour 2017.

D.

G.

E.

3.18: Bad Religion

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The punk rock vets make another San Diego stop at House of Blues.

Still boasting three founding members, the L.A.-based band toured with Against Me! last year.

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3.18: Yellowcard

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Last here in October, the Florida pop-punkers with a penchant for violin are still playing shows for their eponymous final studio album.

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3.18: Jungle Fire

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com The Los Angeles 10-piece tropi-funk orchestra celebrates the release of their new album, “Jambu.” Great local outfit Krass Bros. opens the show.

3.14: Meat Puppets

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com The Kirkwood Brothers haven’t released an album since 2013, but thankfully that hasn’t stopped the influential rockers from continuing to tear it up on stage.

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3.16: Teenage Fanclub

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com It’s time to party like it’s 1991. The Brit alt rockers released their 10th studio album last year and are touring with Luna’s Britta Phillips.

3.12: The Menzingers

@ The Irenic, theirenic.com Released last month, the Pennsylvania quartet’s fifth album, “After the Party,” is their third in a row on Epitaph Records.

3.16: Portugal. The Man

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Alaskan rockers worked with Mike D of the Beastie Boys on their yet-to-be-released eighth studio album, “Gloomin + Doomin.”

MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

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MARCH CONCERT CALENDAR

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3.21: San Diego Music Awards

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Local bands Hirie, The Verigolds, Schizophonics, The Creepy Creeps and more perform live.

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3.22: MØ

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com A makeup show for one that was canceled last year, the Danish singer and songwriter who sang on Major Lazer’s “Lean On” returns to San Diego.

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3.22: Modern English

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com All they want to do is stop the world and melt with you. The least you can do is go to the show.

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3.23: Cro-Mags

@ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Still fronted by legendary screamer and triathlete John Joseph, the veteran NYC thrashers continue to melt faces and bust eardrums.

DAYA

3.12

@ HOUSE OF BLUES, HOUSEOFBLUES.COM/SANDIEGO

K.

The 18-year-old singer takes a victory lap after she guested on The Chainsmokers’ smash hit “Don’t Let Me Down,” and released her debut album, “Sit Still, Look Pretty” last year. >>> L.

O. 3.25: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah

@ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Alec Ounsworth returned last month with new album, “The Tourist.” The singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is currently on a 35-date North American tour through May. A 14-date European run is set for September.

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G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

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A.

3.26: Panic! at the Disco

@ Viejas Arena, viejasarena.com Brendon Urie leads his band on the “Death of a Bachelor” tour, the same name of their Grammy-nominated 2016 album.

E.

B.

3.30: Robert Randolph & The Family Band E.

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The pedal steel guitarist just released “Got Soul,” his first album since 2013’s “Lickety Split.”

3.28: Eisley

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The Texas band’s brand-new album, “I’m Only Dreaming,” came out last month. San Diego is the third-to-last date of their current tour.

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E.

3.31: The Orwells

@ The Irenic, theirenic.com The Chicago rockers released their latest LP last month, “Terrible Human Beings.” It features the singles “They Put a Body in the Bayou” and “Buddy.”

3.30

TINARIWEN

@ BELLY UP TAVERN, BELLYUP.COM The Grammy Award-winning Tuareg musicians released their best album yet, “Elwan,” last month. Recorded in both Joshua Tree and Morocco, it features collaborations with Kurt Vile and Mark Lanegan. L.A.’s Dengue Fever opens the show, which is sure to be a really good one.

MARIE PLANEILLE

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E.

F.

3.31: Nashville Pussy

@ Brick By Brick, brickbybrick.com You still may not be able to tell your mother the name of this Atlanta cowpunk quartet, but guitarist Ruyter Suys and the rest of her band are still rocking harder than ever.

E.

D.

3.31: Old 97’s

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com The Rhett Miller-led, Texas alt-country quartet released their latest album, “Graveyard Whistling,” at the end of last month.

E.

E.

K E L LY P U L E O

SHERVIN LAINEZ

MARCH CONCERT CALENDAR

3.31: Vince Gill

@ California Center for The Arts, Escondido, artcenter.org The multiple Grammy Award-winning country superstar makes a return visit to San Diego, this time playing solo and acoustic.

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G R O OV E

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

SPIN CYCLE

& M D E H C R MA

A E K A T

S P I N ES C N A M R DJ PERFO

3.10

TCHAMI

@ OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK, OBSERVATORYSD.COM The French future house DJ/producer with a penchant for religious garb heads Confession Records and has toured with Diplo, Skrillex and DJ Snake. His latest single, “Adieu,” was released last month.

MARCH 2017 | @PACIFICSD

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C W C R E AT I V E PRODUCTIONS

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CYBELE MALINOWSKI

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E.

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3.2 4B

@ OMNIA omnianightclub.com The DJ and producer from New Jersey has worked with Skrillex, DJ Snake, Kaskade, Tiësto and Zeds Dead, as well as releasing tracks on Diplo’s Mad Decent and Steve Aoki’s Dim Mak Records. His new remix of “Utopia” with Dombresky is out now.

B.

3.3 DATSIK

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Canadian DJ/producer and Firepower Records boss Troy Beetles is currently on his Ninja Nation tour with both Crizzly and Virtual Riot. His 7-track “Sensei EP” came out at the end of last year.

3.3 STEVE AOKI

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The legendary Dim Mak Records founder and Grammy Awardnominated DJ/producer recently teamed with One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson for the singer’s debut single, “Just Hold On.” The third LP in his “Neon Future” collection is due this year.

D.

3.3 BEAR GRILLZ

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The Colorado-based, mask-wearing DJ is currently on his The Void tour, which features a new stage design as well as support from Terravita, Midnight Tyrannosaurus, P0gman, and Wooli.

E.

3.4&5 CRSSD FESTIVAL

@ Waterfront Park, crssd.com It’s baaaaaack. And it’s hard not to argue that it’s better than ever. With a ridiculous lineup that includes Flume, Claude VonStroke, Lost Frequencies, Duke Dumont,

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3.10 TIMMY TRUMPET

@ Parq, parqsd.com The brass-playing Australian DJ/producer scored a major hit in 2014 when he teamed with Savage on the single, “Freaks.” He appeared on Nervo’s “Any Where You Go” and collaborated with MAKJ and Andrew W.K. on “Party Till We Die” last year. His latest single, “Oracle,” is out now.

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3.11 MORGAN PAGE

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3.24 BOTNEK

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The Montreal-based DJ duo has remixed the likes of Steve Aoki, Mat Zo & Porter Robinson, AC Slater, and Jack Beats. The pair’s latest EP, “Buffering,” was released on Dim Mak Records two months ago.

3.11 DVBBS

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Comprised of brothers Chris and Alex van den Hoef, the Canadianborn, L.A.-based DJ duo teamed with Borgeous on the 2013 hit, “Tsunami.” The pair’s Decemberreleased “Beautiful Disaster” EP featured appearances from Juicy J and Stella Rio. I.

3.24 EC TWINS

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Manchester DJ duo Marc and Allister Blackham turned their remix of Guordan Banks’ “Keep You in Mind” into a big enough hit that they even named a tour after it. The brothers teamed with Banks once again on their current single, “Revolution,” a funky take on Tracy Chapman’s “Talkin’ Bout a Revolution.”

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Vermont-born DJ and producer is an Emerson College grad and two-time Grammy Award nominee. His latest single with Steve James, “Candles,” is out now. Fun fact: San Diego’s Greg Laswell appeared on Page’s 2012 full-length “In The Air.” H.

3.23 WEARETREO

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Los Angeles-based DJ/surfer trio of Trevor Shawn, Ace Future and Spencer Regan scored a hit with their 2015 remix of Sia’s “Elastic Heart.” Their brand new remix of Kehlani’s “Undercover” came out last month.

M.

3.25 MICK

pair of singles, “Africa” and “Final Boss,” as well as his third full-length, “Virus,” last year.

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3.30 SHAUN FRANK

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com This Canadian DJ, producer and singer co-wrote The Chainsmokers’ “Closer” (feat. Halsey) and opened for KISS on their Hottest Show on Earth tour in 2010. He released the single “La La Land” with DVBBS last year, as well as “Let You Get Away,” which featured Ashe.

P.

3.30 NERO

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com After pivoting from their drum n’ bass origins, the London-based, Grammy-winning trio of Dan & Alana Stephens and Joe Ray released their second EDM album, “Between II Worlds,” in 2015. It ended up hitting No. 1 on Billboard’s U.S. Dance/ Electronic album chart.

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Brooklyn-based DJ and entrepreneur has collaborated with Adele, Leon Bridges and DJ Jazzy Jeff, and he counts Jodie Foster, Jay-Z and LeBron James as clients who have hired him to spin at private parties.

3.17 ATB

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com German DJ and producer ATB, aka Andre Tanneberger, hasn’t released a ton of new music lately.

But he recently announced that his 10th studio album, “Next,” is set for release in April.

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3.29 EXCISION

N.

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Jeff Abel, the Canadian DJ/ producer also known as Excision, is the founder of Rottun Recordings.

Through the label, Abel released a

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ANDREW WHITTON PHOTOGRAPHY

C.

Bob Moses, Alunageorge, and Blood Orange, the two-day party by the water is sure to sell out.

l ov E

BY DAVID PERLOFF

B L I N D DAT E

PHOTOS BY DAVID BROOKS MATCHMAKING

BY JESSICA PELLIGRA

OVER THE TOP

A HIGH-FLYING LOOK AT LIFE AND LOVE IN SAN DIEGO

I

n keeping with this issue’s homefront theme, Zlata and Scott will soon take a helicopter tour of the coast, soaking in sights of the ocean, skyline and cranes that are taking residential life in San Diego to new heights. At the moment, these two blind-daters are cruising in an Epic Limo to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in Serra Mesa. Before they get dropped off to take flight, let’s review their pre-date interviews.

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

ZLATA: I was born and raised in Moscow, in Russia. I moved to the U.S. when I was 16 and lived in Alaska. I have been thawing out in San Diego for almost four years now. It was a spontaneous move from AK to SoCal, and I have never looked back.

SCOTT: I’m a native San Diegan, third generation, and a recovering Chargers fan. I live downtown.

What do you do for a living?

ZLATA: I am an author, speaker and lifestyle coach. A few years ago, I escaped the 9-to-5 grind, made my hobby my career and founded a virtual fitness coaching company called Sexyfit. Sexyfit was created out of the notion that every woman is sexy in her own way and deserves to feel confident in her body. And with every woman we coach, we deliver a lasting mind and body transformation. I recently

released a book called “The Sexyfit Method” and I host a weekly podcast featuring the leading health, fitness and lifestyle experts.

SCOTT: I’m a business and real estate attorney and left the practice of law to partner with the commercial real estate firm The Irving Group. I love my job and being able to help business owners with their real estate – and my legal experience distinguishes me from the rest of the pack. >>>

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l ov E B L I N D DAT E

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

ZLATA: Butterflies of anticipation.

SCOTT: I’m a “yes” man.

What do you do for fun?

ZLATA: I’ve traveled the world for fun and for work, so traveling adventures are always the best way for me to have fun. I also enjoy falling out of perfectly good planes with friends or exploring the deep seas in a scuba suit. Honestly, I can have fun anywhere, at any time.

SCOTT: I like to be as active as possible and make the most of what San Diego has to offer, but also enjoy recharging the batteries on the couch with my guitar and a good Netflix show.

I have a lot of fun teaching spin Monday nights at Fit downtown, and like yoga, golf, snowboarding and eating Mexican food. Music is my first love.

What are you best at?

ZLATA: Having fun and finding joy in every moment. While this

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sounds cheesy, that’s just me.

SCOTT: Negotiating and making people feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations. Eating Mexican food over 66.66 percent of the time.

What do you suck at?

ZLATA: Riding a bike – terrible.

SCOTT: Multitasking and listening attentively.

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

ZLATA: I am looking for a man with ambition, drive and a vision.

Also, squats are a man’s best friend, if you know what I mean.

SCOTT: I am looking for someone with a great smile and sharp wit.

I’m drawn to blondes and like a girl with a sense of humor who doesn’t take herself too seriously.

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

ZLATA: Love, sex and magic.

SCOTT: “Smedium” shirts and

sense of humor.

What do you like least about yourself?

ZLATA: That, despite my best effort, I’m useless to the world before 9 a.m.

SCOTT: My inability to say “no” to opportunities and focus on what’s important.

When their limo drops them off at Corporate Helicopters at Montgomery Field, Zlata and Scott talk over glasses of Champagne as they prepare to take flight.

Then, as the sun approaches the horizon, they board the chopper for a tour down the coast, from La Jolla to downtown. >>>

Always a Green Flash on St. Paddy's Day

CATCH ALL THE MADNESS AT PB Shore Club

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WHAT THE HAKE? A MAGICAL MEAL AND A DESIGN DO-OVER

date because I am such a control freak.

SCOTT: Good. We’re having a lot of fun. She’s really funny.

Less than an hour after takeoff, Zlata and Scott return to terra firma, hop back into the limo and head to PROOF, the new cocktail bar and lounge at La Jolla’s recently remodeled oceanfront restaurant The Hake. Once they’ve had a chance to look over

What were you first impressions?

ZLATA: He’s really funny. Really funny; like really, really funny, which is a good ice-breaker.

SCOTT: Very pretty. Very proper.

ZLATA: He freakishly looks exactly like my ex-boyfriend, so… ya nailed it.

SCOTT: Not really, but I am really glad that we’re here. My mom and my family always give me a hard time for this, but I really like blondes and normally date them.

But she has some fire and humor and wit and charm. She’s pretty cool to hang out with.

Is this the type of person you’d normally date?

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

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the menu and enjoy a round of drinks, they’re split for mid-date debriefings.

PACIFIC: How’s it going so far?

ZLATA: Going really well. I’m actually kind of surprised. Never thought that I would enjoy a blind

ZLATA: I love the outfit, and he told me that his mom picked it out.

So, well done, Mom! SCOTT: I think she looks beautiful, very sexy.

How was your experience at Corporate Helicopters?

ZLATA: It was amazing. I truly never thought San Diego was that beautiful. I mean, you see it flying in and over the airport, but when you can actually hover and you

see the beauty over, like, La Jolla, Mission Bay and downtown, it’s just gorgeous. Honestly, it was one of the coolest experiences in San Diego.

SCOTT: I really wanted to be a pilot when I was a kid, so it was very cool to be able to go up there. I kept asking if he would let me fly, but he wouldn’t let me. But we had a great time. We could communicate through the headphones. It was super fun,

funny – and when she dropped a “that’s what she said” joke, I was just like, “This is going to be a great night.”

What’s the coolest thing you saw from the helicopter?

ZLATA: I think it is really interesting to see downtown from that view, and the bay is so still. Still water, beautiful boats and it was sunset, so it was timed so nicely.

SCOTT: It was really amazing to see

the cliffs by Blacks Beach, and the Torrey Pines cliffs were really cool.

Also, I have been here 23 years. I was born here – third generation; very rare to be a third generation.

It was very cool to see a city that I know so well from a perspective that I’ve never seen, especially because I am in real estate, so I also got to see the real estate that I put people into from an aerial perspective, which was very cool. >>>

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

ZLATA: It really depends on the time of the day.

SCOTT: My mom thinks I’m a 10.

Grandma thinks I’m more like an eight and “need to stop trying to find the perfect woman.”

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

ZLATA: I’d hang out with me, but again, it really depends on

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the time of the day. Before 9 a.m. or a morning coffee, that’s questionable.

SCOTT: I go for the baseball approach with humor. If three out of 10 jokes hit, then I’m batting .300 and a Hall of Famer. So, I’d say, on a scale from one to 10 for personality, I’m batting .300 What’s your biggest fear?

ZLATA: My biggest fear is leaving this planet without making a

meaningful contribution to the world.

SCOTT: Snakes, divorce, disappointing my family.

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

ZLATA: Acting like a f***-boy man or chewing with his mouth open.

SCOTT: Lack of eye contact, no sense of humor, being on their phone, asking for a salad with no dressing.

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

ZLATA: Respectful and adventurous.

SCOTT: Engaging and adventurous.

What’s the most important thing in the world?

ZLATA: Love.

SCOTT: Being true to yourself. >>>

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What have you had to eat and drink so far?

ZLATA: I am dying over this restaurant. I have no idea how I have never been here before. It is the best seafood I have tasted in San Diego, by far. And I am from Alaska, so I am a seafood snob, and it’s amazing. The charred poke tuna tostada was off the charts, the Hamachi was insanely amazing, octopus was really good and they make a fish chorizo. Fish chorizo?

Like, come on – it is amazing. Everything is amazing.

SCOTT: We had the tuna tostadas, which were one of top 10 things I ever had in my life. We had the Hamachi, which was great, then the bone marrow, which was a delicacy. They have lots of tequila drinks, too, so I am happy.

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

ZLATA: He ordered; he took the lead. I like that.

SCOTT: She’s just so funny. I laughed more on this date than I have laughed on cumulative dates in the past.

Rate your date on a scale from 1 to 10 for looks ZLATA: Nine.

SCOTT: Nine.

And for personality?

ZLATA: Ten. SCOTT: Nine.

Do you want to kiss your date right now?

ZLATA: I would, but not tonight.

SCOTT: Twenty minutes ago and 20 minutes from now.

Does your date want to kiss you?

ZLATA: Hopefully.

SCOTT: Yes. Matchmaker: Oh, so is that like an in-the-limo type of thing? Is that the vibe I’m getting?

SCOTT: We already thought about it. She doesn’t know that, but we did.

Matchmaker: So you guys have kissed?

SCOTT: No, not yet, but we thought about it. It helps when there is a whole bottle of Champagne in the helicopter. Yeah, the sunset and the helicopter, really, it’s a recipe for kissing.

Do you think there will be a second date?

ZLATA: Up to Scott. I hope so, though.

SCOTT: Yeah, I think so. She’s cool. And we live close to each other.

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SEA YOU LATER THE MOTION OF THE OCEAN, A FOUR-LEGGED

GREEK GOD AND THE CHANCE OF A SECOND DATE After the mid-date break, Zlata and Scott enjoy a lavish dinner, sitting close to each other as plate after plate emerges from The Hake’s kitchen. When dessert arrives, the magazine crew finally leaves the couple alone to enjoy the rest of their evening away from the camera. The next morning, we call to see what we missed.

What’s the best thing you had there?

ZLATA: My favorite dish was the octopus, and the strawberry dessert was to die for.

SCOTT: Everything and anything. Pretty sure the tuna tostadas are in my top 10 of all time.

They had quite the array of tequila and mezcal drinks.

How was the rest of your experience at PROOF at The Hake?

ZLATA: Ah-mazing! Their seafood everything is to die for. Their staff was very accommodating and knowledgeable. I honestly didn’t look at the menu, and everything that we had was phenomenal.

SCOTT: Awesome. I really like the remodel, and the ambiance was on point. Our server was professional and kind. The food was amazing.

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

ZLATA: We walked my dog together.

SCOTT: We went back downtown and took her dog, Zeus, out for a walk.

When did you get home?

ZLATA: Shortly after 10 SCOTT: Around 10. >>>

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Was there a kiss or romantic exchange?

ZLATA: What’s a romantic exchange?

SCOTT: Romantic Exchange would be a great band name, and a true gentlemen doesn’t kiss and tell.

Chivalry is not dead.

How and when did the date end?

ZLATA: As silly as this might sound, we walked my dog together.

SCOTT: After we took Zeus for a walk.

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

ZLATA: It was a really fun experience as a whole.

SCOTT: We laughed the whole time. I’m a pretty goofy guy, and it was fun to be with someone who can throw it back at me and laugh off the seriousness of life and awkwardness of having a camera around. The funniest thing was

probably when our limo driver kept the divider down, and I just nonchalantly closed it while he was talking to us. Either that or us talking like truckers over the microphone on the helicopter ride.

What was the best part of the date?

ZLATA: I really enjoyed the helicopter tour, because it was a totally new experience to me.

SCOTT: Helicopter ride. It was so amazing to see the city from that perspective, and she was really fun.

Will there be a second date?

ZLATA: I would go on a second date with Scott, yes. I appreciated his sense of humor and easygoing attitude.

SCOTT: Definitely. She’s very cool, down to earth, intelligent and has an amazing sense of humor. That and we live five blocks from each other, so why not?

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

ZLATA: That I am going to ask him all these questions on our official first date.

SCOTT: I usually have a thing for blondes.

What could have made this date better?

ZLATA: It was a perfect blind date.

SCOTT: If it wasn’t a school night, and I could have added an energy drink to my tequila.

AFTERMATCH: Despite Scott’s blond ambitions, it seems he may be open to turning to the dark (hair) side. “I think she looks beautiful, very sexy,” he said of Zlata during the mid-date break. He also laughed all night and said the helicopter and Champagnehampagne were “a

recipe for kissing.” Zlata, on the other hand, got what she was used to. “He freakishly looks exactly like my ex-boyfriend, so… ya nailed it,” she said. The fact that both daters look forward to a second date suggests Zlata didn’t catch Scott, “acting like a f***-boy man or chewing with his mouth open.” He did roll up the divider while the limo driver was talking to him, though, which may not have been a dealbreaker for Zlata, but does count as a small mark against his karma… or maybe a “smedium” one.

Watch the video of Zlata and Scott’s blind date and helicopter ride at pacificsandiego.com.

For your own high-flying blinddate adventure, email a photo and a couple sentences about yourself and what you’re looking for in a date to setmeup@pacificsandiego.com.

Thank you to (and promotional consideration provided by): Epic Limo, 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com; Corporate Helicopters, 858.505.5650, corporatehelicopters.com; PROOF at The Hake, 858.454.1637, thehake.com.

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