PACIFIC San Diego Magazine, March 2019 by Pacific San Diego Magazine

Ceejay THE

Chantel Jeffries spins into OMNIA San Diego on March 30

March 2019

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

WRITTEN IN THE STARS

Blind daters have serendipitous night of improv-ability

WOMEN MAKING WAVES IN SAN DIEGO, EVENTS, CONCERTS, ART EXHIBITIONS, CONTEST GIVEAWAYS, PERFORMANCES AND A NEW ZEALANDINSPIRED BREWERY

Drink responsibly. Modelo Chelada

â&#x201E;˘

Flavored Beers. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL

EDITOR’S NOTE

So Badass! BEER Yes, we covered some women in the brew world in the previous “industry” feature, but March also marks International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day and Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day. Several women working in all facets of beer gathered at Second Chance Beer Company to create a unique blend to mark the occasion. Check out what’s brewing on page 63.

MUSIC This month’s cover girl, Chantel Jeffries, is breaking the mold as a badass in the DJ world. The model and YouTube star may have upped her pop culture status when she dated Justin Beiber, but the 26-year-old is pushing past that noise to create a sound that’s her own. Read more about Ceejay the DJ and her upcoming OMNIA San Diego show on page 82. And just because International Women’s Day is only one day on the calendar, it doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate badass women every damn day of the year. Share with us some of the badass women in your life by tagging #PacificSD and #badass on your social accounts.

Chef Stefani De Palma

Women’s Colla boration

Cheers,

THE “INDUSTRY” We tapped our friends over at the Facebook group Eating and Drinking In San Diego (14,200 loyal and talkative members who love all things food and drink) and asked them to help us ID some badass female 8

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Leslie Hackett leslie@pacificsandiego.com

Brew Day NS WO LF PRO DUC TIO

As a co-host of the podcast Mueller, She Wrote, which is described as “a binder full of women unraveling the Trump/Russia Investigation,” it’s hard not to appreciate the laughs brought into the world by stand-up comedian Jordan Coburn. Read more about the San Diego resident and where to find her on stage on page 35.

Jordan Coburn

NA NC EE E. LE WI S

COMEDY

industry professionals (chefs, bartenders, managers, restaurateurs, brewers and every job in between) then added a couple of our own nominees for one mega list of badassness. Head to page 50 to check out the women we think are deserving of the title.

JIM SULLIVAN

here I sit at the PACIFIC office, I am surrounded by some major badass women. While our magazine features a lot of freelance contributors, internally we are comprised of a core team that is all women. So, when we realized March 8 was International Women’s Day, we thought, what better way to pay tribute to other badass females from around San Diego than to highlight them in this month’s magazine. But, before I let you in on some of those women featured in the pages that follow, here are some definitions I think best describe what it means to be a badass: Urban Dictionary, which lays out seven rules for being a modern-day badass said it best when they defined the trait as: “A badass stays true to themselves, always. This means being themselves for themselves, and not being fake to impress others.” Continuing on to say “A badass does not give up. Badasses will always push themselves for the better, no matter how hard it gets.” Amen. And from a 2014 Thought Catalog article by Tyler Protano-Goodwin (don’t let the first name fool you, she’s a female writer), a badass woman is one that “has dreams so big that sometime(s) they scare her, yet she refuses to stop believing in them and she knows that yours are just as attainable.” We did not choose women based on looks or style; they are wave makers, status-quo interrupters and persistent — they have staying power. They are strong in body, mind and soul. They are, quite simply, badass females, and that makes them oh so beautiful. With that in mind, I encourage you to seek out and surround yourself with badass women in your everyday life and about town, including in the following areas:

Chantel Jeffries

Volume #13 | Issue #3 | March 2019

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CONTENTS MARCH 2019

CURRENTS 14 Three.Nineteen March events calendar 32 Laughing Stock March stand-up comedy shows PULSE 36 Art Beat March gallery + exhibition openings 44 Curtain Calls March performing arts preview 46 The Reel Deal March motion picture preview 48 Spotted Where locals were seen in February TASTE 50 A League of Their Own Leading ladies elevate San Diegoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culinary scene to a higher level 60 Full Plate March food + drink events 62 Take it From the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here GROOVE 64 Sounds Like a Plan March concert calendar 80 Take a Spin Upcoming EDM + DJ performances 82 Ready For Her (Next) Close Up Multifaceted talent Chantel Jeffries is set to play LOVE 86 Mission: Improv-ible A pair of blind daters learn to live in the moment

ON THE COVER: and ON THIS PAGE: Model, actress and influencer Chantel Jeffries brings her DJ set to OMNIA San Diego on March 30. Read more about Chantel, including her ties to San Diego, on page 82 and win tickets to her show on page 23. Cover photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for boohoo.com. Contents photo by Kris Connor/Getty Images for Beautycon.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

GLASSES UP TO DRINKING RESPONSIBLY.

CURRENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING RIGHT NOW BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

3.10

International Mariachi Festival Bayside Park, Chula Vista mariachifest.com It’s about more than just mariachi music at this eclectic event that also includes bungee jumping, extreme water sports, a wrestling exhibition and interactive virtual reality games. PHOTO BY NELVIN C. CEPEDA

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

CURRENTS | EVENTS

3.1-4 SAN DIEGO YOGA FESTIVAL Evergreen Avenue, Imperial Beach sandiegoyogafestival.com Hit the reset button during four days of nonstop oceanfront yoga, including classes that incorporate hikes, live music, energy healing and even skateboards. PHOTO BY HOWARD LIPIN

3.2-10 SAN DIEGO FESTIVAL OF SCIENCE & ENGINEERING Petco Park, East Village lovestemsd.org More than 130 local businesses and organizations host interactive, hands-on STEM exhibits — including several activities exclusively for adults — during this 10-day educational experience that proves science exploration isn’t strictly for students.

3.3 ST. PATRICK’S DAY HALF MARATHON, 5K & GREEN MILE Main Street at Magnolia Street, El Cajon stpatricksdayhalf.com This fast, costume-friendly race invites finishers to compete in a Crossfit-inspired obstacle course before enjoying food trucks and live music in the event’s exclusive beer garden. 16

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

3.2-3 13TH ANNUAL BUSKER FESTIVAL Seaport Village, downtown seaportvillage.com A swarm of street performers from far and wide descend upon Seaport Village for SoCal’s signature two-day busker festival, featuring an untamed 18+ party Saturday after sunset. PHOTO BY NELVIN C. CEPEDA

CURRENTS | EVENTS

3.9 11TH ANNUAL ST. BALDRICK’S SHAVE-A-THON Nason’s Beer Hall, downtown, stbaldricks.org Help give hope to kids with cancer by shaving your head — or raising funds — for this heroic, life-saving cause PHOTO BY JDIXXPHOTO

3.5 17TH ANNUAL HILLCREST MARDI GRAS

3.9-10 BALBOA PARK 92ND ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE

3.10 SAN DIEGO HALF MARATHON

Throughout Hillcrest fabuloushillcrest.com The spirit of the French Quarter consumes Hillcrest for those aboard this bus-based bar crawl that includes five themed party stops and visits to several of the neighborhood’s hottest venues.

Balboa Park Activity Center, Balboa Park thethursdayclub.org San Diego’s largest rummage sale returns with new and gently used merchandise, including jewelry, antiques, collectibles and more, all sold to raise funds for Balboa Park and nearby nonprofits.

Throughout uptown and downtown sdhalfmarathon.com Beginning and ending near Petco Park, the route for this 13.1-miler heads up the coast toward Liberty Station then ventures east into Mission Hills and Hillcrest before passing Balboa Park on the way back to East Village. PHOTO BY JARED GASE

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

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

DOWNTOWN, 92101 4 BD | 4.5 BA | 2,568 SQ FT | $1,249,900

Impeccably designed newly built contemporary home offers amazing value for Mission Hills luxury living. High quality designer finishes include stunning European cabinetry, quartz counters and custom porcelain tile. Excellent floor plan offers great room with indooroutdoor open concept living - ideal for entertaining. Modern wood floors, custom lighting, Milgard windows and sleek design. Huge master bedroom with spa style bath and 2 en-suite bedrooms upstairs plus ensuite bedroom downstairs along with half bath. 3218 Ibis Street, San Diego CA 92103

DOWNTOWN MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 301 # of homes sold: 42 (Jan) Highest price: $1,785,000 Lowest price: $245,000 Average home price: $572,500

The real estate market in downtown continues to “cool down” after an amazing 7 year run. Sales prices over the past 6 months have softened and are heading down, while time on market for properties has increased by 43%. The factors that contribute to this slow down include, but are not limited to new federal tax laws, rising interest rates, the volatility of the stock market, a drop in international buyers and an oversupply of new condos coming to the market.

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

619.356.3099

BRE#01459513

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

CURRENTS | EVENTS

3.16 SAN DIEGO SHAMROCK Throughout the Gaslamp Quarter, sandiegoshamrock.com San Diego’s largest St. Patrick’s Day block party returns to the Gaslamp Quarter with three stages of live music, dozens of participating bars and an endless amount of green beer.

3.16 LEPRECHAUN RUN Garnet Avenue, Pacific Beach sandiegorunningco.com Score a pair of green socks, sunglasses and either a tutu or headband at this Irish-inspired 5K followed by a post-run party at Mavericks Beach Club. PHOTO BY BRADLEY SCHWEIT

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

3.16 ST. PAT’S PARADE AND FESTIVAL

Fifth Avenue at Laurel Street, Bankers Hill, stpatsparade.org Feast your eyes on more than 120 floats, bands and dance groups at the largest St. Paddy’s Day parade west of the Mississippi, then soak up even more Celtic culture at the Irish Festival brimming with craft booths, live entertainment and oodles of food and brews. PHOTO BY JARED GASE

3.16 ST. PATRICK’S DAY 10K Mission Bay Park, Mission Bay kathyloperevents.com With any luck (of the Irish), you’ll cross the finish line then celebrate the accomplishment with a cold one at the beer garden on Mission Bay.

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

SAN DIEGO, 92101 Enjoy this spacious 3 bed 3 bath PENTHOUSE unit with panoramic views of the city, mountains & bay in the luxurious Aria! Open and bright floorplan features floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, modern kitchen with custom cabinetry, island with breakfast bar, recessed lighting, palatial master suite with walk-in closet, rain shower and dual sinks, expansive views from every room and in-unit laundry. Two balconies with 270Â° views to capture Balboa Park to the Coronado Bridge! Great amenities and a prime location! Cortez Hill, 1441 9Th Ave 2101, San Diego, CA 92101 $999,000 - $1,049,000

SAN DIEGO MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 315 # of homes sold: 47 (Jan) Highest price: $1,785,000 Lowest price: $245,000 Average price: $836,502

The new year is off to a positive start with interest rates at new lows. The rates are anticipated to rise again throughout the year so now is the best time to buy for any prospective buyers who have been exploring the real estate market. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great time for sellers to list their homes offering an increased inventory for the buyers wanting to take advantage of these low rates and be a step ahead of those who are looking to list in Spring or Summer. The outlook is strong for the first quarter of 2019!

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CURRENTS | EVENTS

3.14-24 26TH SAN DIEGO LATINO FILM FESTIVAL

TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 23!

AMC Fashion Valley Mall, Mission Valley and Digital Gym Cinema, North Park sdlatinofilm.com Taking a stand against the cinema’s status quo and challenging common stereotypes about the Latino experience, this film festival gives Latino moviemakers the power to share their stories first-hand.

3.22-24 LADIES ROCK SAN DIEGO A Reason to Survive (A.R.T.S.), National City, rockcampforgirlssd.org Local women take part in an intensive weekend-long program where they form a band, learn an instrument, write an original song, and perform it live at the House of Blues — all in just three days.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

3.18-21 14TH ANNUAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL Japanese Friendship Garden, Balboa Park, niwa.org Learn the fine art of appreciating cherry blossom flowers during this yearly festival featuring mouthwatering street food, exotic demonstrations and a beer-and-sake garden. PHOTO BY K.C. ALFRED

It’s a Gift

The Sound of Music

Actually, it’s a bunch of prizes Register to win tickets to these March events and more at pacificsandiego.com/contests. Life’s cool in San Diego. Here’s proof:

Shake, Rattle and Roll

Sample cocktails from 21 of the best bars in San Diego, including Born & Raised, Campfire, False Idol and Polite Provisions, at the San Diego Bartender Shakedown, a spirited celebration of cocktails and the mixologists who create them. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to this “one night only” affair. March 2 at Liberty Station

Ready for Takeoff

Hold onto your lightsaber and enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to The Empire Strips Back: A Burlesque Parody, a racy re-enactment of the classic movie (complete with a dominatrix Darth Vader), set to a soundtrack of modern hits. March 30 at Balboa Theatre

Get into the groove by entering for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the 28th annual San Diego Music Awards, where the finest local musicians compete in categories like Best Singer Songwriter, Best Pop Album and Best Local Recording. Bonus: San Diego’s own Jason Mraz will perform with the Java Joe All-Stars. March 11 at House of Blues

¡Luces, Cámara, Acción!

The 26th annual San Diego Latino Film Festival spans 10 days and presents more than 160 films from Latin America, the United States and Spain. Enter for a chance to win the grand prize (a pair of festival passes, which includes entrance to 11 films, plus access to priority seating and film talks), or a pair of film passes. March 14-24 at various locations around San Diego

Hey, Ms. DJ

Chantel Jeffries is no one-trick-pony: The model, actress, influencer, DJ and onetime San Diegan stops at OMNIA San Diego for a set that will leave you wanting more. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets for VIP entry. March 30 at OMNIA San Diego

Feel the Burn

There’s nothing more San Diego than lounging in a hotel swimming pool on a sunny day, cocktail in hand and beats by some of the hottest DJs pumping. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to SUNBURN Pool Lounge’s opening day party to get your fix. March 30 at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

MARCH 2019

CURRENTS | EVENTS

3.25-31 10TH ANNUAL KIA CLASSIC Hyatt Aviara, Carlsbad kiaclassic.com Nearly 150 of the world’s best women golfers — including Eun-Hee Ji, Lydia Ko, Paula Creamer, Michelle Wie and Lexi Thompson — compete for a whopping $1.8 million purse. PHOTO BY DONALD MIRALLE/GETTY IMAGES

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

3.24 HOT CHOCOLATE 15K Petco Park, East Village hotchocolate15k.com Satisfy your sweet tooth between strides on this indulgent urban run that’s drizzled with Sweet Stations offering choice treats chocoholics won’t be able to turn down. PHOTO BY AL FERNANDEZ IMAGES

3.30 FIFTH ANNUAL BUNNY BALL Parq, downtown, thebunnyball.com Bring a new stuffed bunny (or just donate an Andrew Jackson) at this black-tie ball that aims to deliver wascally wabbits to 1,500 sick and needy children.

CURRENTS | EVENTS 3.30 12TH ANNUAL MUSTACHE BASH Port Pavilion, downtown mustachebash.com Pay respect to that which separates the men from the boys at this funky facial-hair affair followed by an after-party aboard a private boat departing directly from the pier. PHOTO BY RICK NOCON

3.30 MADE IN SAN DIEGO BLOCK PARTY Ballast Point Brewing, Little Italy madeinsd.eventbrite.com One of the world’s biggest craft brewers celebrates its San Diego roots at this bash promoting art, music, food and other creations made in America’s Finest City.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

PACIFIC HIGHLANDS D EN T I S T R Y AND O RT H O D ON T I C S

CURRENTS | EVENTS

TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 23! 3.30 SUNBURN POOL LOUNGE OPENING DAY Hard Rock Hotel, Gaslamp Quarter sunburnpool.com Party like a pop star as the Hard Rock opens its rooftop, poolside paradise replete with tricked out cabanas and cushy daybeds that provide the perfect setting for wetand-wild activities. PHOTO BY SERGIO LOPEZ

3.31 ENCINITAS HALF Moonlight Beach, Encinitas encinitashalfmarathon.com Featuring live music, local vendors and a 7-mile stretch along the oceanfront, this 13.1mile trek awards runners with a free breakfast at the finish line. PHOTO BY RICK NOCON

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

CURRENTS | EVENTS

SPORTS GULLS HOME GAMES (Pechanga Arena) 3.6 vs Stockton Heat 3.8-9 vs Colorado Eagles 3.23 vs Ontario Reign 3.27 vs San Jose Barracuda 3.29 vs Bakersfield Condors 3.30 vs Stockton Heat GULLS PHOTO BY CHADD CADY

SOCKERS HOME GAMES (Pechanga Arena) 3.1 vs. Turlock Express 3.10 vs. Ontario Fury 3.15 vs. Dallas Sidekicks

LEGION HOME GAMES (Torero Stadium) 3.10 vs. Toronto Arrows

SEALS HOME GAMES (Pechanga Arena) 3.2 vs. Vancouver Warriors 3.16 vs. Philadelphia Wings 3.22 vs. Saskatchewan Rush

SAN DIEGO FLEET HOME GAMES (SDCCU Stadium) 3.9 vs. Salt Lake Stallions 3.17 vs. Birmingham Iron

SEALS PHOTO BY CHADD CADY

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

SAN DIEGO SOCKERS

CURRENTS

Laughing Stock March stand-up roundup BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

Anjelah Johnson 3.1-3, 3.7-10

@ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

I’m at the age “ where I want to

be on a newsletter that tells you which foods are being sampled on each day of the week at Costco. — Anjelah Johnson on Twitter PHOTO BY DARIN RIOS

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

”

CURRENTS | COMEDY 3.7-9 CHRIS HARDWICK @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

I’m well into my 30s, and I know if I’m “ going to have kids, I need to have ’em soon. Like, you don’t want too long, right? ’Cause kids who are the product of old sperm are not right in the head. The fresher the mayo, the better the sandwich. That’s a very simple formula. — Chris Hardwick on Just for Laughs

”

PHOTO BY ALBERTO E. RODRIGUEZ/GETTY IMAGES

3.9 CHRIS D’ELIA @ Harrah’s Resort SoCal, harrahssocal.com

Girls pick words that “ they like and then just

run with it. Girls are on some new thing where they’re calling everything ‘random.’ Girls will say something’s random if it’s not even random. A girl will be like, ‘Oh my god, you’re wearing a jacket? That’s so random.’ It’s not random, it’s winter. Know what I mean? — Chris D’Elia on

”

White Male. Black Comic. PHOTO BY ETHAN MILLER/ GETTY IMAGES

3.14-16 HARLAND WILLIAMS @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“ Can you imagine if

‘laughter is the best medicine’ was actually used in the medical profession? ‘Excuse me, Mrs. Johnson, we’re sorry to inform you … you have a terminal brain tumor.’ ‘Oh, my goodness! Is there anything you can do?’ ‘Well, ma’am. Uh, knock knock…’ ‘Who’s there?’ ‘Eura.’ ‘Eura who?’ ‘Eura gonna be dead in about three f**kin’ weeks.’”

3.14-16 WHITNEY CUMMINGS @ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

Thank you Instagram for bringing “ to my attention that my friends secretly hang out with all the people they constantly talk s**t about.

— Harland Williams on Live at Gotham

— Whitney Cummings on Twitter

PHOTO BY MATT MAZZANT

PHOTO BY KIRK MCKOY / LOS ANGELES TIMES

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

”

3.22-24 PAUL RODRIGUEZ P HOTO BY A L B E RT I N E FE URE R-YOUN G

@ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

No two people on the planet have exactly the “ same areola. For real. … Go home and look at one nipple, and look at the other. They’re not the same, man, they’re different, you know. ’Cause nipples come in all kind of varieties and flavors. Some people have like, really cute, pink, nice, appealing, inviting nipples. Then some people have like really ugly, coarse, rough nipples that are made out of elbow meat. You know who you are. — Paul Rodriguez at The Laugh Factory

”

Coburn After Reading

PHOTO BY MICHAEL SCHWARTZ/WIREIMAGE

3.22-24 DAVID KOECHNER @ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

“ I believe in two things: Chicken, and that the census is a way for the UN to make your children gay.”

MEET LOCAL COMEDIAN

JORDAN COBURN

— David Koechner as Champ Kind in Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues

Hailing from Henderson, Nev., comedian Jordan Coburn has been in San Diego since 2011. She enrolled in a stand-up comedy class in college, and a couple of years later got hired as a server at Mad House, where she soon started entertaining audiences during open-mic nights. Coburn now regularly performs at several venues around the city and also hosts the popular podcast Mueller, She Wrote, which, each Sunday, offers wry insight into the ongoing Special Counsel investigation of our commander in chief. PACIFIC recently chatted with the comedian and here’s what she had to say:

PHOTO BY FRAZER HARRISON/GETTY IMAGES

3.28-30 NICK THUNE @ American Comedy Co.,americancomedyco.com

“ I’m just gonna start from the beginning.

I was born young … Seattle, Washington. As I grew up, just got older, you know. Life. It was all kind of a blur until 7, when I was diagnosed with having bad vision.” — Nick Thune on Folk Hero

PHOTO BY PHOTO BY MIKE COPPOLA/GETTY IMAGES

On her comedic inspirations: “I admire Maria Bamford and Janeane Garofalo the most. They both set examples for female comics on and off stage that are appealing to me. They’re smart, honest and true to their own identity, which can be difficult in a historically More notable women male-dominated industry. Diego’s comedy scene:

in San

Vicki Barbolak ki Tatiana Cwiklins Allison Gill lan Pallavi Guna Jaleesa Johnson Carla Morales Lauren O’Brien

3.29-31 STEVE BYRNE @ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

It definitely took me 40 years to realize where “ I stand politically. I think some people know right

out of the gate, and some folks are influenced by their parents. Me, it took me 40 years. Nowadays, somebody’s like, ‘Hey, what’s your take on the death penalty? How do you feel about the presence of the United States in the Middle East? What’s your stance on abortion?’ Here’s my take on all those and more: I don’t give a s**t. None of those things apply to my daily life. I don’t know anybody on death row, the Middle East has been fighting for thousands of years and we’re not going to change that, and thank god my daughter’s not old enough to f**k. I just don’t care about any of those things, truly. — Steve Byrne on Just for Laughs

”

PHOTO BY JASON DAVIS/2014 GETTY IMAGES

On being one of San Diego’s few female comedians: “I generally feel very supported by my male peers because comedy here is, for the most part, a meritocracy. If you’re funny, people will respect you. Granted, I think women have a steeper hill to climb in terms of being treated with respect by audience members. For example I had an audience member yell at me while on stage to ‘get on the pole,’ which, given the absence of a pole onstage in the first place, is a non sequitur at best and, in reality, an aggressive and sexually charged expression of discontentment with a woman using her brain and mouth at the same time.” Catch Jordan onstage Wednesday nights at the Comedy Store in La Jolla and on Saturday, March 9, at the Comedy Palace in Kearny Mesa.

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

3.2-30

Fifth Annual Crow Show ARTS | COOLTURE ART BEAT BY LISA DEADERICK

The Messenger by Stacy Honda

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

The Studio Door, 3867 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest 619.255.2867, thestudiodoor.com Sometimes crows are a symbol of coming tragedy, other times itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good news. Either way, this intelligent bird is the inspiration for fantastical and realistic interpretations of it in these works of art.

on the airwaves Every month PACIFIC teams up with Facebook group Eating and Drinking in San Diego to bring podcast listeners the latest and greatest on San Diego’s food and drink scenes. You can find Dish It Up and Kiss My Glass on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month on your preferred podcasting platform.

Here’s what to keep your eyes and ears open for in March.

Brunch Directory OLD TOWN TEQUILA FACTORY & CANTINA

(buffet style) 2467 Juan St., Old Town (across from Heritage Park) 619.260.8124 | oldtowntequilafactory.com A spectacular scenic hillside spot for your Saturday or Sunday Champagne brunch with panoramic views from the Coronado Islands, over Old Town to Mission Bay. This traditional Mexican buffet, served 9 a.m. to 2 p.m, features sizzling steak, shrimp, carnitas or chicken fajitas and includes favorites like fresh menudo and pozole, cheese enchiladas, homemade chile rellenos, agave glazed ribs, flowing Champagne and more. At $26.99 (kids under 12, $12.99), it’s perfect for bridal/baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, holiday parties and reunions.

CHINA MAX

Dish It Up on March 11 with guest Tom Logsdon of The Balboa and Sister Rays

Kiss My Glass on March 25 with guest Randy Elskamp of Cantina Mayahuel and Ilegal Mezcal

(table service) 4698 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa 858.650.3333 | chinamaxsd.com Experience the true delight of an authentic Chinese dim sum brunch, dozens of varieties (from $2.45) and their famous regular menu. Served Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.

KAISERHOF GERMAN AMERICAN RESTAURANT

(table service) 2253 Sunset Cliffs Blvd., Ocean Beach 619.224.0606 | kaiserhofrestaurant.com Enjoy Sunday brunch in Kaiserhof’s award-winning and quaint German American restaurant. Served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. the brunch menu features dishes such as German pancakes, eggs benedict, Kaiserschmarren, steak & eggs, poached salmon, omelets and more. Includes a glass of Champagne, mimosa or orange juice and fresh rolls and butter. From $12.95.

OLD TOWN COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL & RESTAURANT (table service) 2660 Calhoun St., Old Town 619.297.1874 | oldtowncosmopolitan.com A blend of American and Mexican favorites served in their uniquely historic setting, either on the patio or indoors. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with entrees starting at $7.95 and $7 mimosas and Champagne. Kids under 12 eat free (one per paid adult). Additional kids, $5.95. PATRON’S CORNER (table service) 332 J Street #102, San Diego 619.255.0492 | PatronsCorner.com Patron’s Corner offers traditional recipes from Mexico like huevos rancheros or chilaquiles and American favorites like, orange cranberry pancakes and brioche French toast using fresh and organic ingredients (when possible), served on the patio or indoors in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter. Bottomless mimosas are $12 with the purchase of an entrée. Their full service bar emphasizes tequila and mezcal, and also offers craft cocktails. An extensive vegan brunch menu is available upon request. They are also available for private events and buyouts. Served Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 9 a.m. 94TH AERO SQUADRON (buffet style)

8885 Balboa Ave., Kearny Mesa 858.560.6771 | 94thsandiego.com Join 94th Aero Squadron Sunday for their Champagne buffet brunch. Buffet includes omelet bar and eggs benedict, Belgian waffle station, carved meats, fajita station, pasta station, dessert station, chocolate fountain and much more. Served from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with an early brunch special from 9 a.m to 10 a.m. Early pricing is $29.95 and regular pricing is $34.95 (per adult). Children ages 4-10 are $16.95.

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

PULSE | ART BEAT

Art Beat

3.2-8.25 WOMEN OF THE SOUTHWEST The San Diego Museum of Art 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.232.7931, sdmart.org A number of female artists were drawn to the American Southwest during the 20th century, looking to connect with the people, environment and indigenous traditions of the area and bring those connections into their work.

March gallery + exhibit openings BY LISA DEADERICK

The Yellow Robe by Belle Baranceanu

3.6-9.22 DEFINING PLACE/SPACE: CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY FROM AUSTRALIA Museum of Photographic Arts, 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559, mopa.org Thirteen artists were selected by Australian curators of photography for their perspectives on creativity in their home country, the relationship the country has with indigenous people, and Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative place in the world.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Beach Grubs by Michael Cook

IT’S THE FINAL

Chowdown Feast on Gaslamp’s best burgers

and watch basketball’s finest fight for the title of best in the league league.

20+ burgers | wall-to-wall tv’s | 150 beers

PLUS, JOIN US FOR

Pint-Sized Fun THIS ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

322 FIFTH AVE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 | (619) 546-9292 | COLDBEERS.COM

PULSE | ART BEAT

3.9-4.7 A.H. ROMERO Thumbprint Gallery, 920 Kline St., La Jolla 858.354.6294, thumbprintgallerysd.com Artist A.H. Romero uses the memories from his childhood, his Chicano culture and his post-traumatic stress to explore the emotions involved in one’s personal life, which will show up in his latest exhibition, Spectre.

3.31-7.7 JAMES HUBBELL: THE SPACE BETWEEN Sparks Gallery 530 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.696.1416, sparksgallery.com Using natural materials to create “living” pieces and committed to expressing an inspired vision of nature, artist James Hubbell presents his work in sculpture, drawings, paintings and mixed media in this new show.

THROUGH 3.21 MARIO TORERO: ARTIVISMO LOKO San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery 7250 Mesa College Drive, D-101, Clairemont Mesa 619.388.2829, sdmesa.edu You may recognize the work of activist and artist Mario Torero: one of his murals is on display at San Diego Mesa College and he’s a founder of Chicano Park and Centro Cultural de la Raza. The exhibition is a reflection of his art and life, which are about awareness of oppression, the selfishness of capitalism and the destruction of the environment. La Lucha Continua by Mario Torero

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

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PULSE | ART BEAT THROUGH 5.19 MANRABBIT / A SOLO SHOW: SWEATING GLITTER ::: HONORING GRANDPA JOE Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.696.1416, sparksgallery.com This collaboration by local artists Lee Selman and Carla Naden features work they’ve created together by layering fabric, paper, paint, jewels and other materials — topped with a thick resin coating that leaves a glamorous shine in “exploring the contemporary feminine with extravagantly adorned women.” A Hummingbird for Paul by Lee Selman and Carla Naden

Untitled by Jen Trute

Hollywood Car by George von Physter

THROUGH 6.16 SAN DIEGO SURREAL Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3720, oma-online.org More than 50 works of art, from contemporary and earlier 20th-century artists, explore the ways surrealism has grown into Southern California culture and its impact on local artists.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

THROUGH 8.25 SPECTACLE & SATIRE The San Diego Museum of Art, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.232.7931, sdmart.org Pairing their wit with artistic skill, artists found inspiration for their work from the stars and spectators of sideshows and circuses, using that material for social commentary and expression in their art.

PULSE | CURTAIN CALLS

Curtain Calls March performing arts performances BY JAMES HEBERT

3.4 DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER California Center for the Arts, Escondido 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org The ABC dance series trades the small screen for the live stage during the Escondido visit of this national tour, showcasing such TV faves as Jenna Johnson and Britt Stewart.

3.5-4.14 CHAPS! Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000, lambsplayers.org British humor meets twangy country tunes in the musical comedy about a bunch of BBC types who find themselves posing as singing cowboys for a radio broadcast.

3.21-4.21 HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH

3.30 THE ILLUSIONISTS — LIVE FROM BROADWAY

Diversionary Theatre 4545 Park Blvd., University Heights 619.220.0097, diversionary.org Diversionary has cast the gender non-binary actor Jeremy Wilson in the title role of this brash, funny and hard-hitting rock musical about a bruised but indomitable singer; the show marks its 20th anniversary this year.

Pechanga Resort & Casino 45000 Pechanga Pkwy., Temecula 888.810.8871, pechanga.com The ever-popular touring magic show materializes in Temecula, featuring six top-flight illusionists who stand poised to pull tricks, stunts and “acts of breathtaking wonder” out of their hats. (It’s unclear if there’s also a bunny in there somewhere.)

3.22-4.28 LIFE AFTER Old Globe Theatre Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org Globe artistic chief Barry Edelstein directs the American premiere of the rising writercomposer-lyricist Britta Johnson’s musical about a teenage girl looking for answers after losing her father.

3.28-4.14 MR. AND MRS. FITCH Backyard Renaissance at Moxie Theatre 6663 El Cajon Blvd., Rolando District backyardrenaissance.com The small but gutsy Backyard Renaissance — just named to a second term as La Jolla Playhouse’s resident theater company — puts up Douglas Carter Beane’s biting saga of two aging gossip columnists.

3.30 DANCE GALLERY San Diego Ballet, White Box Live Arts, 2590 Truxtun Rd., No. 205, Liberty Station 619.294.7378, sandiegoballet.org Emerging choreographers take the spotlight in this mixed-rep program, directed by longtime San Diego Ballet artistic leader Javier Velasco.

3.30-4.7 CARMEN San Diego Opera, San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.533.7000, sdopera.org The opera returns to composer Georges Bizet’s durable favorite — a story of love, jealousy and betrayal set in 19th-century Spain. Ginger Costa-Jackson takes on the title role.

3.6-4.20 ANGELS IN AMERICA Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town 619.337.1525, cygnettheatre.com Cygnet will stage both parts of Tony Kushner’s American masterwork, a Pulitzer Prize-winning chronicle of our country in the time of the AIDS crisis.

3.8-10 BALANCHINE MASTERPIECES City Ballet, Spreckels Theatre 121 Broadway, downtown 858.272.8663, cityballet.org The City Ballet Orchestra accompanies performances of three key works by the late dance giant: Apollo, Rubies From Jewels and The Four Temperaments.

3.9-10 POP TOUR 2019: LIGHT YEARS AWAY La Jolla Playhouse 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla 858.550.1010, lajollaplayhouse.org Laura Schellhardt’s story of fifth-graders in space is the latest Playhouse-commissioned piece for the youth-minded Performance Outreach Program tour, which lands back in La Jolla for two days of public performances.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

3.30 THE EMPIRE STRIPS BACK: A BURLESQUE PARODY Balboa Theatre 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, empirestripsback.com A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, sexy Stormtroopers and scantily clad Droids performed a seductive striptease set to music from artists like INXS and Run DMC. Ok, maybe that isn’t exactly how the beloved movie franchise went, but this theatrical take combines song and dance, troupe routines and comedy for an experience that’s out of this world.

TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 23!

Dance Gallery

PULSE | MOVIES

The Reel Deal

March motion picture preview BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

CAPTAIN MARVEL Everything begins with her Fantasy | Sci-Fi Directed by: Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Mendelsohn In theaters: 3.8 Set in the 1990s, a young woman is transformed into one of the galaxyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fiercest warriors just as two alien races threaten to destroy the planet.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

TYLER PERRY’S A MADEA FAMILY FUNERAL Good grief. Comedy Directed by: Tyler Perry Starring: Tyler Perry, Rome Flynn and Patrice Lovely In theaters: 3.1 Just in case 10 Madea movies weren’t enough for you, Tyler Perry is back in drag as the matriarch of an outof-control family whose hysterical reunion quickly evolves into the wildest wake ever to occur in rural Georgia.

RUBEN BRANDT, COLLECTOR Mystery | Thriller Directed by: Milorad Krstic Starring: Iván Kamarás, Gabriella Hámori and Csaba Márton In theaters: 3.1 When a troubled psychotherapist begins to believe the subjects of famous paintings are out to kill him, he recruits four of his patients — all expert thieves — to steal the masterpieces so he can finally get a good night’s sleep.

GRETA Everyone needs a friend. Drama | Horror Directed by: Neil Jordan Starring: Isabelle Hippert, Chloë Grace Moretz and Maika Monroe In theaters: 3.1 After a young woman finds an abandoned purse on the subway, she returns the bag to its rightful owner, only to find out that no good deed goes unpunished.

WONDER PARK Take a ride on the wild side Adventure | Comedy Directed by: Robert Iscove, Clare Kilner and David Feiss Starring: Jennifer Garner, Mila Kunis and Kevin Chamberlin In theaters: 3.15 Underscoring the importance of imagination, this film tells the tale of an

adolescent girl who discovers that the wacky world she dreamt up as a child somehow spawned into reality, and only she can save it from certain destruction.

THE MUSTANG Untamed souls. Kindred spirits. Drama Directed by: Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre Starring: Matthias Schoenaerts, Jason Mitchell and Bruce Dern In theaters: 3.15 Based on actual events, an incarcerated man with violent tendencies sees the error of his ways after participating in a rehabilitation program that requires him to work with wild equines.

and Vera Farmiga In theaters: 3.15 A small team of rebels fights to restore human control of society a decade after an alien species began occupying Earth.

THE AFTERMATH FIVE FEET APART When life keeps you apart, fight for every inch. Drama | Romance Directed by: Justin Baldoni Starring: Haley Lu Richardson, Cole Sprouse and Claire Forlani In theaters: 3.15 When a hospital-bound teenager with cystic fibrosis meets another patient her age with the same condition, the two struggle to resist romantic temptation as they’re required to stay at least 60 inches away from each other at all times.

THE HUMMINGBIRD PROJECT Everything is on the line. Thriller Directed by: Kim Nguyen Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Alexander Skarsgård and Salma Hayek In theaters: 3.15 Capitalistic cousins who work in high-frequency trading attempt to route their own fiber-optic cable from Kansas to New Jersey in order to make millions of dollars in mere milliseconds.

CAPTIVE STATE This is no longer our planet. Sci-Fi | Thriller Directed by: Rupert Wyatt Starring: John Goodman, Ashton Sanders

Drama | Romance Directed by: James Kent Starring: Kiera Knightly, Alexander Skarsgard and Jason Clarke In theaters: 3.15 When a British colonel is tasked with rebuilding the city of Hamburg after the end of World War II, he and his wife move in with a German widower, creating a volatile, sexually charged atmosphere that threatens to unravel the couple’s marriage.

US We are our own worst enemy. Horror | Thriller Directed by: Jordan Peele Starring: Anna Diop, Elisabeth Moss and Lupita Nyong’o In theaters: 3.22 After a pair of parents and their two kids venture to the beach on vacation, a masked family of four begins to terrorize their every move.

DUMBO A beloved tale will take you to new heights. Fantasy Directed by: Tim Burton Starring: Colin Farrel, Michael Keaton and Danny DeVito In theaters: 3.29 A newborn elephant’s oversized ears endow him with the ability to fly in Disney’s latest live-action remake of an animated classic.

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

Spotted: San Diego

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

2.1.19 Guests dressed in their finest inspired duds at The Mad Hatterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ball: Down the Rabbit Hole, for an evening of cirque performances, music, dancing, craft cocktails and more unique activities at The Observatory North Park. Photos by Jared Gase

2.13.19 Fans of The Bachelor flocked to Mavericks Beach Club in Pacific Beach for the launch of the Pura Vida x Colton Underwood bracelet collaboration. To purchase the Legacy Pack by Colton Underwood, visit puravida.com. 25% of proceeds will be donated to the Colton Underwood Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit that supports people living with Cystic Fibrosis. Photos by Jared Gase

See more photos of San Diegoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best events at pacificsandiego.com @PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

TASTE EAT | DRINK | PUFF DINING OUT

BY JACKIE BRYANT PHOTOS BY JIM SULLIVAN

A League of

Their

Own

Leading ladies elevate San Diego culinary scene to higher level

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Paulina Konja, bar manager at Kettner Exchange

hough underrepresented in terms of numbers, there is no doubt that both the individual and collective impact of women’s efforts in San Diego’s food, beer, wine and cocktail scene have made explosive and lasting marks. You could even say women are the unsung heroes of San Diego’s food and beverage industry. They are entrepreneurs, scientists, masters of their craft, problem-solvers, visionaries and more — in short, they are badasses. “Over the last couple of years I have started to find my own voice because I care too much about what we are working for to stay quiet,” activist and restaurateur Jessica Waite told PACIFIC. “Like any female entrepreneur, I’ve had the opportunity to challenge preconceptions and smash a few stereotypes. I think that opening minds is the first step to changing the world.” Waite is among numerous other women that came to mind when PACIFIC took stock of women who are making waves in the industry. In addition to PACIFIC’s own list, we decided to consult members of the Facebook group Eating & Drinking in San Diego, a collective of 14,200 active and vocal lovers of food and beverage, to see who the community thinks are the most badass female contributors in town. On the top of the EDSD list was Karen Barnett, proprietor of Small Bar in University Heights. When asked about her role in the industry, Barnett is most interested in reframing the narrative. “My role as a woman in beer in San Diego is the same as a man in beer,” she said. “I put on my shoes every day and go to work. It’s just as important to me to support women in the beer industry as it is to ensure I’m always pouring the highest quality beer I can find.” So, what defines a badass woman? She’s a hard worker, supports and gives back to her community, blazes her own trails, and, maybe most importantly, a badass woman inspires other women around her and encourages them to be just as successful as she is, if not more. In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, here’s a look at some major female badasses making waves in the San Diego food and beverage industry.

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

TASTE | DINING

Stefani De Palma Addison

Addison sits at the top of the San Diego food chain. With significant national and international reach, the Del Mar restaurant has garnered multiple awards and designations (including 10 years as both a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Restaurant and AAA Five Diamond Restaurant) and routinely draws to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar a crowd who travels solely to eat at the restaurant. While William Bradley, the executive chef, is the name most often associated with Addison, his right-hand woman and chef de cuisine, Stefani De Palma, deserves a lot of the credit as well. An Arcadia, Calif., native, De Palma attended the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, after which she joined Addison’s pastry team directly out of school at age 19. She climbed through the ranks, eventually landing her current role in 2016 at the young age of 27. In fine dining kitchens, chefs de cuisine are often given much creative reign and to have such a responsibility at this point in De Palma’s career is no small honor. “Contributing to the fabric of San Diego’s wide-ranging dining scene is exciting and inspiring,” De Palma said. “There are so many incredible ladies that are continuing to push our community forward and to new heights, and it is simultaneously motivating and humbling to be a part of it all.” 52

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Eating healthier and shopping local at your neighborhood farmers’ markets looks good on you!

IC BEAC CIF H A P

TUESDAY

farmers’ market

TUESDAYS 2PM-7PM

WEDNESDAYS 9AM-2PM

SATURDAYS 8AM-2PM SanDiegoMarkets.com

TASTE | DINING

Morgan Tenwick Modern Times

One of the people making it all happen at one of San Diego’s top breweries, Modern Times, is Morgan Tenwick. After starting out with Ballast Point in 2013, Tenwick rose through the ranks over the years before making the move to Quality Assurance (QA) Manager with Modern Times in 2016. In her current position, every bottle (or can) that goes out the door of Modern Times’ three production facilities (San Diego, Los Angeles and Portland) has Tenwick’s stamp of approval. QA work is no joke — it requires an inside-out knowledge of brewing, what factors create consistency (or inconsistency) and a deep understanding of the science of beer, which she is equipped to take on seeing as she studied biochemistry at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Tenwick is also a certified cicerone (certified beer expert) and transitioned to the world of beer after a career in pharmaceuticals. Asked about her badass status, the humble Tenwick replied, “I don’t think I’m a badass. I just love beer and science and found a career that allows me the best of both worlds.”

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

PROMOTION

DANISH RYE BREAD â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A NEW SUPERFOOD Bringing you flavors from our home country to the San Diego food scene. Danish rye bread is dark, dense, high in fiber and low in salt, fat and gluten. But what makes it even more special is the textural contrast, with the grains and seeds present in great numbers. This really makes it a joy to

eat plain or with your favorite meats and produce piled on top. Rye bread will help stabilize your blood sugar, keeping you satisfied for hours after your meal. If refrigerated, Danish rye bread stays moist, fresh and flavorful at least a week. That is, if you can leave it that long.

Taste of Denmark 142 University Avenue, Hillcrest | 619.209.3636 truetasteofdenmark.com

Classic open rye sandwiches. A daily selection of artfully piled buttered rye bread sandwiches.

SIDE BAR

Side Barâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delectable your pilates sesh. Wi Wild Child Flatbread tomatoes, olives and a cute combo of mus salad, you can enjoy party season. Pair yo cocktail, a fresh black

Side Bar 536 Market Street, S sidebarsd.com

TASTE | DINING

Joann Cornejo Machete Beer House

Schoolteacher by day, craft beer advocate by night — those are just some of the superhero powers of Joann Cornejo. Anyone interested in craft beer in San Diego surely knows of National City’s Machete Beer House, one of the top beer bars not only in the South Bay but in San Diego, period. Before its opening in February 2015, craft beer in National City was not easy to come by. Cornejo, who is a National City native and 10th grade teacher, and her husband, Eddie Trejo, were beer enthusiasts themselves who decided to open a spot dedicated to local taps with a few from further afield, like Europe and Mexico. Since then, the bar has achieved cult-like status among craft beer lovers and is considered one of the not-to-miss stops for anyone investigating San Diego’s beer scene. “I believe I play many roles in this great beer town,” Cornejo said in a recent interview. “I began my adventures in beer as a consumer. As a Latina, I contributed to an audience that was previously overlooked. As a resident of the South Bay, I was a member of a region that in terms of beer was often ignored. Today, these are all the things that have formed my role as a woman in San Diego’s beer culture.” And, as an advocate for bringing recognition to underrepresented groups, Cornejo is a big supporter of the #SouthBayUprising movement and last year helped organize the Here’s To Strong Women dinner, which featured six courses from six female chefs paired with six beers from six female brewers with proceeds benefiting Hermanitas MANA De San Diego, a nonprofit that helps empower Latinas through education, leadership development, community service and advocacy. “Machete was the first craft beer bar to open in the South Bay — we opened the doors for new and seasoned beer drinkers,” Cornejo explained. “We have a responsibility to our community and those we serve and these are all things that form our decisions when planning events, scouting out new beer, establishing relationships with organizations and other things. Adding a final thought, Cornejo said: “People were skeptical that a craft beer bar would work in the South Bay. We were able to prove them wrong.” 56

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

PROMOTION

SIDE BAR

PROMOTION

Drop the Beet Salad: cherry heirloom tomatoes, pickled beets, whipped burrata, fresh arugula

SIDE BAR

Side Bar’s delectable lounge offers shareable plates that won’t spoil your pilates sesh. With choices like Drop the Beet Salad, vegetarian Wild Child Flatbread with grilled artichokes, roasted red & yellow tomatoes, olives and arugula, and Side Bar’s signature Tokyo Bites, a cute combo of mushrooms, ahi and crab with a pickled cucumber salad, you can enjoy your delicious dish and get ready for pool party season. Pair your healthy provisions with The Duchess craft cocktail, a fresh blackberry-basil + tequila delight.

Side Bar’s delectable your pilates sesh. Wi Wild Child Flatbread tomatoes, olives and a cute combo of mus salad, you can enjoy party season. Pair yo cocktail, a fresh black

Side Bar 536 Market Street, San Diego | 619.696.0946 sidebarsd.com

Side Bar 536 Market Street, S sidebarsd.com

Other notable women making waves

TASTE | DINING

Crystal White Wayfarer

Since opening in 2018, Wayfarer Bread & Pastry has received rave reviews among high expectations. Its proprietor, Napa-born Crystal White, came to San Diego after attending the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone and working at Proof Bakery in Los Angeles (which she co-founded in 2010), as well as the lauded Tartine Bakery in San Francisco. White launched a Kickstarter campaign to secure funding for her brick-and-mortar location, which today is an indoor-outdoor cafe right on La Jolla Boulevard in the heart of Bird Rock. When it came to opening her bakery by the sea, White forged her own unique path. After the Wayfarer’s opening, she told The New York Times, “I was told that people in San Diego didn’t care about good food. I’m glad that I didn’t believe that.” White’s sweet spot is small-batch baked goods with a focus on naturally fermented breads made from locally sourced ingredients, but also sells pastries and sandwiches on fresh bread in the afternoon. “Crystal is an absolute savage, and San Diego owes her and the team at Wayfarer Bread & Pastry for leveling up our baking/pastry game,” said EDSD member Keaton Henson, who is also the sous chef at Saiko Sake & Sushi Bar in North Park. In addition to being able to find her baked goods at the Bird Rock store, they are also carried at such places as The Pearl Hotel, Bar Kindred and Chino Farms.

Paulina Konja Kettner Exchange

Kettner Exchange bar manager Paulina Konja honed her chops at a variety of Consortium Holdings properties and eventually landed at the SDCM (San Diego Creative Media) restaurant where she rose through the ranks to her managerial position in 2016. “I started at Craft & Commerce, where I really built my foundation of knowledge. Then, I moved onto Ironside Fish & Oyster and then Kettner Exchange a few months later,” Konja said. “Ironside and Kettner taught me how to blend ingredients and build quality cocktail rounds efficiently.” After being promoted to bar manager at Kettner Exchange, Konja turned her attention to the business side of the restaurant and bar world, and now, after receiving some sommelier education, she oversees the beverage program for the entire SDCM portfolio. True to her spirit, she added, “Every time a new opportunity arises, I embrace it with open arms and get to learn something new.” 58

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

On the heels of its 10th anniversary, University Heights craft beer temple Small Bar has some big news. Owner and chef Karen Barnett has partnered with Trust Restaurant Group to update the bar’s interior, exterior and some menu items while retaining the local, curated vibe that Barnett has worked so hard to build and maintain since becoming sole proprietor of the bar (a designation not held by many women). Jessica Waite is one half of the dynamic duo that runs Oceanside’s Wrench & Rodent Sebasstropub, The Whet Noodle and zero-waste, plant-based restaurant The Plot, which is slated to open in 2019. Waite, who earned her MBA in 2018, is also a tireless advocate for improving food systems and animal rights, most notably as president of the Berry Good Food Foundation. Claudette Zepeda-Wilkins is the chef of El Jardin, which is her first restaurant project (in partnership with Rise & Shine Restaurant Group, who own the space) after her stints on Top Chef (in the U.S. and Mexico) and at the acclaimed and now-shuttered Bracero, where her time there with chef Javier Plascencia earned the restaurant a James Beard Foundation Award nomination. Kara LoVecchio is one of the area’s top wine professionals with a near-encyclopedic recollection of almost everything she’s ever tasted and a spot-on palate. She began her career at L&J Crafted Wines in La Jolla, eventually becoming the buyer and manager of Little Italy’s Vino Carta. Her current gig is as the beverage director and assistant general manager of Cucina Urbana. College Area’s Garden Kitchen is the baby and brainchild of Cardiff-by-the-Sea native Coral Fodor Strong, a self-taught home cook who took her skills to a professional kitchen when she opened her restaurant in 2015. Today, she works on the front line supporting a number of San Diego’s small farms by buying from them exclusively and directly. “She deserves some love for doing things the right way,” said EDSD moderator and PACIFIC podcast host Edwin Real.

PROMOTION

SIDE BAR

Salmon Tartare Tacos: salmon, avocado, seawood salad, Side Barâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delectable tobikko

RUSTIC ROOT This downtown rooftop destination is known for much more than its social scene and craft cocktails. The buzzy open-air deck offers dynamic New American cuisine with an inventive flare. House-made ingredients and seasonally influenced dishes flaunt the rooftop menu with items like the Salmon Tartare Tacos, Kale Salad with roasted butternut Rustic Root 535 Fifth Avenue | 619.232.1747 RusticRoot.com

squash and farro, Impossible Burger and Poke with apple & cucumber slaw. Socialize and sip creative cocktails under the stars in stylish surrounds while noshing on delish dishes. Enjoy half off featured appetizers and specials on handcrafted cocktails during Happy Hour on Monday through Friday from 4-6pm.

your pilates sesh. Wi Wild Child Flatbread tomatoes, olives and a cute combo of mus salad, you can enjoy party season. Pair yo cocktail, a fresh black

Side Bar 536 Market Street, S sidebarsd.com

TASTE | EVENTS

Full Plate

March food + drink happenings BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

3.1 PECHANGA’S 11TH ANNUAL CHOCOLATE DECADENCE Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula pechanga.com Treat your sweet tooth to an array of chocolates and pastries while listening to live music and sampling a wealth of wines, bubbles and spirits at this highly anticipated epicurean event.

3.2 DEGAS DINNER AT SPARKS GALLERY Sparks Gallery, Gaslamp Quarter sparksgallery.com Sparks Gallery celebrates four years in business with a gastronomic journey inspired by the famed French painter Edgar Degas and punctuated by performances from the San Diego Ballet Company.

3.2 GASLAMP MARDI GRAS BIG EASY BITES & BOOZE TOUR Venues throughout the Gaslamp Quarter sdmardigras.com Prepare to wear a bevy of beads on this self-guided restaurant roam featuring sinful sips and Mardi Gras-inspired munchies at 20 of the Gaslamp’s hottest venues.

JTRAN PH OTOS

3.2-5 SIXTH ANNUAL BARTENDERS WEEKEND

3.2 PECHANGA’S 11TH ANNUAL WINE FESTIVAL Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula, pechanga.com Swirl, sniff, sip and savor as you sample a slew of distinguished vintages from notable wineries throughout Europe, Australia, South America and California.

FEBRUARY 2019 @PACIFICSD

Events throughout the city bartendersweekend.com Hospitality heroes and heroines are invited to join more than 1,100 other industry pros for three days of networking — and not working — during these events that pay homage to the profession of bartending. The weekend will include an Official Welcome Party on March 3 (because Sunday is the industry-standard Friday), Licorería Limantour Takeover and Espolon Cocktail Fights.

3.2 SAN DIEGO BARTENDER SHAKEDOWN

TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 23!

traveling celebration of Mexican culture includes an epic selection of mezcals, raicillas and tequilas, plus several southof-the-border wines and craft beers paired with bites from local restaurants.

Building 177, Liberty Station Part of Bartenders Weekend and the only shenanigans open to the public and nonindustry pros, this event will offer sample cocktails from 21 of the county’s best bartenders all under one roof for one wild night only.

3.14 TASTE OF THIRD Third Avenue Village, Chula Vista thirdavenuevillage.com Sip on discounted drinks and nosh on savory samples during this self-guided tour to many of Chula Vista’s most-loved eateries, lounges, breweries and tasting rooms.

3.3 BRUNCH + MARKET Little Italy’s Loading Dock, Little Italy thesdcollective.ticketspice.com/ brunchandmarket Pregame before CRSSD at this energetic extravaganza featuring merchants, live music, a made-to-order omelet station and a complimentary braid and glitter bar.

Balboa Park Club, Balboa Park guacamolebowl.com More than 30 teams compete to guac your socks off at this annual avocado-centric event that includes a full bag of tortilla chips and all the samples you can stomach.

Cyclops Farms, Oceanside cyclopsfarms.com Chefs Davin Waite (Wrench & Rodent, The Whet Noodle) and Peter Harrison (Have Knives, Will Travel) prepare a masterful, five-course meal paired with wine and other beverages to wet your whistle.

JARED GASE

3.9 16TH ANNUAL GUACAMOLE BOWL

3.16 A TALE OF TWO CHEFS ON A FARM

3.16 FOURTH ANNUAL SABOR LATINO FOOD, BEER & WINE FESTIVAL Fashion Valley Mall, Mission Valley 2019.sdlatinofilm.com/sabor-latino/ Revel in Latino flavors and culture while enjoying unlimited food, beer and wine tastings from some of the culture’s best restaurants, breweries and wineries on both sides of the border.

3.16 VANGUARD CULTURE’S AN ARTIST @ Table — Sensorial Idea1, East Village vanguardculture.com Break bread with some of San Diego’s most visionary artists during this rooftop finedining experience designed to engage all five senses.

3.22 SEVENTH ANNUAL BANKERS HILL ART & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL The Abbey, Bankers Hill bankershillbusinessgroup.com Local artists, DJs and Bankers Hill’s best restaurants join forces at this two-level, 21+ event offering limitless 2-ounce pours from more than a dozen nearby breweries.

3.23 SAN DIEGO TACO & BEER FESTIVAL Port Pavilion, Broadway Pier sdtacobeerfest.com Knock back unlimited pours of craft beer from local and regional breweries, then soak up those suds with unlimited taco tastings from some of the city’s top restaurants and food trucks.

3.24 DINNERS FOR GOOD

Embarcadero Marina Park South, downtown, bestcoastbeerfest.com Discover 200 beers from nearly 100 West Coast breweries at this ale-lovers event benefiting Cuck Fancer, a local nonprofit that helps young cancer patients and survivors live richer lives.

3.10 MEXICO IN A BOTTLE Bread & Salt Gallery, Barrio Logan mexinabottle.com Back in San Diego for a second year, this

RACHEL COBB

3.9 BEST COAST BEER FEST

3.16 GOT GREEN? San Diego Botanic Garden, Balboa Park sdbgarden.org Learn how to live more sustainably during this fun-filled, first-year event bursting with educational workshops, organic gardening tips, plant-based cooking demos, vegan food vendors and much more.

Kitchens for Good, Encanto support.kitchensforgood.org Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien and Tommy Gomes from Catalina Offshore invite guests to enjoy a five-course tasting menu and paired drinks during a live cooking demonstration from Carnitas Snack Shack’s chef Hanis Cavin.

3.31 FOURTH ANNUAL CHEF DRIVEN BAKE SALE Herb & Eatery, Little Italy friendlyfeast.org Carb-lovers unite at this annual event showcasing signature treats from one dozen of San Diego’s top bakers and pastry chefs.

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FEBRUARY 2019

TASTE | BEER

Take it from the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here BY PETER ROWE / PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH ZARANKA

GOOD AS GOLD Go: Kairoa Brewing Company Know: Want a taste of New Zealand? Travel to University Heights, where Kairoa’s co-owner Shanan Spearing and head brewer Joe Peach are among the Kiwi natives on staff. Maori-inspired imagery adorns the two-story brewpub, while N.Z. ingredients (lamb, mussels, sausage, roasted beet hummus) enliven the dishes and the beers, which highlight fruity hops from the ANZAC region. Glow: The lamb barbacoa New Zealand Hot Chips ($11) was an unexpected delight, a bowl of fries topped with queso fresco, garlic aioli, shallots, mint chimichurri and a mound of tender, lean, shredded lamb. Other winners include the beer-battered fish and chips with New Zealand-style slaw ($16); the New Zealand pilsner green lip mussels ($18), served in a broth chunky with pork belly and chopped fingerling potatoes; and the fried chook sandwich ($15), a meaty chicken breast fried in a salt-and-vinegar batter. Mo’: Next time, we’ll aim to try the savory meat or veggie pies ($9) and the fried shrimp butties ($14), a Down Under sort of slider. Flow: When we visited, six house-brewed beers were on tap (the menu lists 10). Of the five we sampled, Southern Sky IPA ($7 a pint), an unfiltered ale with lip-smacking mango and orange notes, soared. Not a beer fan? Kairoa offers 15 wines, $8 to $14 a glass. No: Cheeky Buggah ($6), while billed as a Belgian-style blonde, tasted like a West Coast pilsner. Were the traditional Belgian spices held up in customs? Expect Joe Peach, a veteran with brewing experience at Poway’s Lightning and San Diego’s Bitter Brothers, to refine his recipes as he gets accustomed to the 10-barrel brewhouse. Pro: Since its late-January opening, Kairoa has been packed. Even on weeknights, seats in the downstairs dining room are hard to come by. Arrive early or consider ascending to the rooftop bar. San Diego nights can be chilly in March, but the upstairs heating elements may transport you to the Southern Hemisphere, where these are the balmy days of summer. In the know: No desserts were on the menu when we visited, but our waitress tipped us to an unlisted gem: the ANZAC Biscuit ($9), oatmeal cookies wrapped around chocolate ganache and served with berries and green tea ice cream. Kairoa Brewing Company 4601 Park Blvd., Mission Hills 619.295.1355, kairoa.com

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

WE CAN BREW IT! BY BETH DEMMON PHOTOS BY NANCEE E. LEWIS

elebrating women in craft beer can be a delicate dance. Breweries run the risk of seeming “too” girly (remember glitter beer?) or alternatively, not focusing enough on inclusivity to appeal to a growing (but still minority) demographic. But every March 8 for International Women’s Day (IWD), breweries from across the country participate in a slew of women-centric beer events to promote the increasing roles of women in the industry. Two of the biggest movements include International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day (IWCBD) and Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day. Both campaigns allow breweries to create their own recipes around a loose theme; this year, IWCBD’s theme is “Forage,” with individual breweries donating to a charity of their choice. Pink Boots Society asked participants to create any style of beer using an exclusive hop blend from Yakima Chief Hops with proceeds going toward scholarships, education and programming. This year, for Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day, Second Chance Beer Company decided to turn a feminine stereotype on its head and embrace the rosé trend. Dubbed “Women Everyday Rosé,” the dry blonde ale with fresh citrus, Semillon grapes and rose petals was

collaboratively created by women working in all facets of beer, including public relations, designers, and, of course, brewers. “The beer industry historically has been portrayed by hairy men in flannels,” said Virginia Morrison, CEO/co-founder of Second Chance. “We brought together a rainbow of San Diego women busting ceilings in our local, independent craft beer community and beyond. Women Everyday Rosé can be enjoyed with girlfriends, boyfriends and family of all colors and genders, identity be damned! We believe that’s what true community and love should be.” Profits from Women Everyday Rosé will go in part to benefit Pink Boots’ scholarship program for women aspiring to advance in the brewing industry. “So many women — across many industries traditionally male-predominate — are change-makers,” Morrison said. “I want to draw attention to that fact and show how our indie beer community can bring us together for a great cause and fantastic beer!” Beers brewed during International Women’s Day are generally available a few weeks afterward, so check your favorite brewery’s social media for upcoming #IWCBD and #pinkbootsbrew releases.

WHO’S BREWIN’?

Check the Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day 2019 map for participating breweries. Additional local breweries joining IWCBD include, but aren’t limited to: 2Kids Brewing Company Amplified Ale Works Boochcraft Chula Vista Brewery Coronado Brewing Company Culture Brewing Company, Solana Beach Duck Foot Brewing Company Eppig Brewing Fall Brewing Company Fourpenny House Hodad’s Brewing Home Brewing Company Karl Strauss Brewing Company Mikkeller San Diego North Park Beer Company Pizza Port, Bressi Ranch Societe Brewing Company Stone Brewing Thr3e Punk Ales Brewing Company Viewpoint Brewing Company White Labs

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

GROOVE MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE SOUND DECISIONS BY SCOTT MCDONALD

Billy Idol 3.13

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com It is to be sure that the artist born William Broad will NOT be dancing with himself when he plays this sold-out show in Solana Beach. Not only is the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s superstar sure to roll out hits like White Wedding, Mony Mony and Rebel Yell, longtime guitarist Steve Stevens is along for the ride.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL MULLER

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

GROOVE

Sound Decisions March Concert Calendar BY SCOTT MCDONALD

3.4 BEIRUT

3.4 DJ QUIK & SCARFACE

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com As the driving force behind indie folk outfit Beirut, Zach Condon has always let geography entwine itself with his music making. February’s Gallipoli is no exception. Condon’s fifth studio full-length is named after the Italian town where he wrote the title track and recorded some of the album.

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Last year, Compton rapper/producer DJ Quik hit San Diego with fellow West Coast hip-hop legend Warren G on the bill. This time, it’s veteran Houston MC Scarface (of both solo and Geto Boys fame) who will serve as the legendary co-headliner.

3.4 TRIPPIE REDD

@ Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu/calcoast After last touring as support for Smashing Pumpkins, the Emily Hainesled, Canadian indie-poppers head back out on the road as headliners to support their seventh studio album, last September’s Art of Doubt. Zoe and July Talk will both be on hand to support.

@ SOMA, somasandiego.com The 19-year-old, Atlanta-based rapper (real name Michael White) hit No. 4 on the US Billboard 200 with his debut studio album, Life’s a Trip, last summer. In February, White appeared on a pair of new singles — Ephrem’s Dark Voice and with Preme on Wiz Khalifa’s Alright.

3.5 METRIC

3.6 BAND OF HORSES @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Frontman Ben Bridwell continues to lead these Washington-born, South Carolina-based folk/pop rockers after longtime members Tyler Ramsey and Bill Reynolds called it quits in 2017. The band hasn’t released an album since 2016’s Why Are You OK, but did release a few singles last year, including Into My Arms and a Spanish cover of their hit song No One’s Gonna Love You.

The

s ’ 8 . 7 . 6 5. 3.3

@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com You know that scene in Kill Bill: Volume 1 where The Bride tracks down O-Ren at the House of Blue Leaves? The one that, before all the bloodshed and mayhem, features a supercool, throwback, all-girl garagepunk band? Well, that band is The 5.6.7.8’s. Woo-hoo!

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

PACIFIC BEACH

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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS

e e h c t a h a ax W 3.3

@ The Irenic, theirenic.com After four full-length albums, Katie Crutchfield, aka Alabamabred singer-songwriter Waxahatchee, released her first EP, Great Thunder, in September. The six-song collection was recorded at Justin Vernon’s (Bon Iver) remote Wisconsin studio. Detroit’s Boony Doon opens the show. PHOTO BY MOLLY MATALON

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS

Muse

3.5

@ Pechanga Arena, pechangaarenasd.com When it was released last November, the eighth studio album from massive Brit rock trio Muse, Simulation Theory, hit the top spot in five countries, and made it to No. 12 on the US Billboard 200. The band brings their world tour of the same name to San Diego featuring support from Walk The Moon. PHOTO BY RICH FURY/GETTY IMAGES

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

COLORFUL RADIATION

FIND THE BEAUTY WITHIN THE HORRORS OF YOUR WONDERFUL LIFE.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss Sluka Winters Tavern Motherlode Grill / Sonora, CA at The Merrow Friday, March 8th at 9:00pm

The Merrow | 1271 University Ave. Thirst | San Diego, 92103 Jub Jubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parlor

/ Reno, NV

Sluka performs promptly at 9 pm.

Special guests: The Donnis Trio at 10:30 pm Winters Tavern / San Fairplay at 11:30 pm As heard on

Their last USA appearance before their European Tour. Tickets available at TicketWeb.com

: SLUKA

Francisco, CA

GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS

s s e r p Em Of 3.10

@ The Irenic, theirenic.com L.A.-based singer/songwriter/producer Empress Of (aka Lorely Rodriguez) just teamed up with Perfume Genius for a cover of When Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m With Him, a song originally found on her 2018 second studio album, Us. Rodriguez hits The Irenic with Colombian duo Salt Cathedral as openers. PHOTO BY FABIAN GUERRERO

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Get Lucky At Shore Club

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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS

n e h p e St arley M tic Acous 3.14

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com The eight-time Grammy-winning son of Bob Marley returns to the Belly Up to play acoustic versions of his hit-filled catalog. Marleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children, Jo Mersa and Mystic Marley, are also both recording artists.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

TAJIMASANDIEGO.COM

/TAJIMARESTAURANTS

@TAJIMARESTAURANTS

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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 3.7 YG @ Pechanga Arena, pechangaarenasd.com Last year, the Compton rapper appeared in the film White Boy Rick with Matthew McConaughey, as well as released his third studio full-length, Stay Dangerous. The album debuted at No. 5 on the US Billboard 200 and features appearances from Ty Dolla $ign, Quavo, Nicki Minaj, 2 Chainz and more.

3.10 BETTER OBLIVION COMMUNITY CENTER @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Better Oblivion Community Center is also known as the musical partnership between Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes) and L.A. singer/ songwriter Phoebe Bridgers (boygenius). If that doesn’t sell you on this dynamic pair, they released their self-titled debut album on Dead Oceans in January.

3.11 SAN DIEGO MUSIC AWARDS

TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 23!

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego San Diego’s best and brightest artists descend on downtown for the chance to get some well-deserved accolades. Among the nominees this year are Jason Mraz, P.O.D., Hot Snakes, Slightly Stoopid, The Frights, Parker Meridien, The Redwoods Collective, Sure Fire Soul Ensemble, Mattson 2, B-Side Players and many, many more.

3.13 ACTION BRONSON @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Taking a break from his two TV shows, F*ck, That’s Delicious and The Untitled Action Bronson Show, the New York rapper dropped his fifth full-length album, White Bronco, last November and is following it with a tour of the same name. Meyhem Lauren and Roc Marciano open the show.

3.16 MADLIB @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Legendary DJ and producer Madlib, aka Otis Jackson Jr., is once again teaming with Indiana rapper Freddie Gibbs. The pair last collaborated on 2014’s critically acclaimed album Piñata, and are set for the highly anticipated follow-up, Bandana, sometime this year.

3.16 JAMEY JOHNSON @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Alabama country singer Jamey Johnson hasn’t released a full-length album of his own material since 2010, although he has worked with the likes of Willie Nelson, Shooter Jennings, and Snoop Dogg since. His latest official appearance came on The Ghost of Macon Jones, a song from Joe Bonamassa’s 2018 album Redemption.

3.23 FOALS @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Oxford rock quartet hadn’t released an album since 2015’s What Went Down when they announced that not one, but two, new albums would be arriving in 2019. Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost – Part 1, the band’s fifth studio album, is out this month. Part 2 is set for release later in the year.

3.23 DURAND JONES & THE INDICATIONS @ Casbah, casbahmusic.com Unfortunately, tickets for the Indiana-based soul singer and his rock-solid backing band’s third trip to San Diego sold out mere days after they were put on sale. But don’t fret, the band’s sophomore album, American Love Call, is out this month, and they’re sure to play a far bigger venue the next time through town.

3.24 EARTH, WIND & FIRE @ Pechanga, pechanga.com Because it’s Earth, Wind & Fire. That’s why.

3.24 J BOOG @ SOMA, somasandiego.com L.A.-bred, Hawaii-based reggae singer J Boog returns to San Diego almost exactly one year to the day after last playing here. The performer born Jerry Afemata released his last full-length album, Wash House Ting, in 2016 and has followed in with a handful of singles since.

e m a Non

3.16

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Chicago rapper Noname dropped her selfreleased, debut studio album, Room 25, last September. It comes on the heels of her 2016 selfreleased mixtape, Telefone, with appearances on tracks by fellow Windy City artists like Chance the Rapper, Jamila Woods and Mick Jenkins. PHOTO BY CHANTAL ANDERSON

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 3.28 WET X KILO KISH @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Brooklyn-based indie-pop duo Wet (Kelly Zutrau and Joe Valle) join forces with singer and visual artist Kilo Kish (Lakisha Robinson) for a co-headlining tour. Zutrau and Valle released their second studio album, Still Run, last July, while Robinson’s mothe EP was released two months later.

3.28 GORILLA BISCUITS @ The Irenic, theirenic.com Despite losing longtime guitarist Alex Brown to a stroke last month, the veteran New York hardcore punks are soldiering on. Their impact on the scene is cemented by this sold-out show, as with so many others on the tour, despite not releasing new music in over three decades.

A ie BWooit gDa

e i d oo H 3.30

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The Bronx rapper, born Artist Dubose, released his second studio album, Hoodie SZN, in December. The album hit the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart earlier this year and features appearances from Offset, Tyga, Young Thug, Juice Wrld and others. PHOTO BY SARAH KELLEREN

3.31 MICHAEL BUBLÉ @ Pechanga Arena, pechangaarenasd.com Maybe it’s just me, but my favorite thing the Canadian superstar singer ever did was the “Hamm and Bublé” skit with Jon Hamm on Saturday Night Live in 2010. But selling 75 millions records isn’t too shabby, either. Bublé’s latest, Love, is the singer’s 10th studio album.

3.31 SHECK WES @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego If you haven’t heard Senegalese rapper Sheck Wes’ viral hit, Mo Bamba, then you probably haven’t been listening. The double-platinum-certified hit is taken from the New York MC’s 2018 debut album, Mudboy.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

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GROOVE

Spin Cycle March EDM + DJ performances BY SCOTT MCDONALD

3.1 OLIVER HELDENS @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Dutch producer, who also performs as HI-LO, recently joined forces with Finnish DJ LENNO on the Januaryreleased co-single, This Groove.

3.1 ZOMBOY @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego British dubstep producer Josh Mellody released his seventh EP, Rott N’ Roll Pt. 1, for London’s Never Say Die Records in 2017. Last year, Mellody followed it with a trio of singles — Rebel Bass, Lone Wolf, and Hide N’ Seek.

3.2, 3 CRSSD @ Waterfront Park, crssd.com CRSSD’s Spring ’19 lineup — along with its multiple satellite “After Dark” and “By Day” add-ons — is the festival’s biggest and most impressive to date. Odesza, Armand Van Helden, Lane 8, Phantogram, Jungle, Petit Biscuit, Justin Martin, Ladytron and many more help to hold down the latest iteration of this ever-expanding bi-annual extravaganza.

3.2 3LAU @ Parq, parqsd.com New York-born, Vegas-based DJ Justin Blau has remixed the likes of Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Adele. He also released his 11-song full-length debut, Ultraviolet, last year. His latest single, Would You Understand featuring Carly Paige, dropped in January.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

3.2

Sam Feldt

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Sammy Renders, aka 25-yearold Dutch DJ Sam Feldt, enlisted Belgian singer Kate Ryan for his latest single, January’s Gold. Renders also occasionally plays with a live band that includes trumpet, saxophone and guitar.

3.2 JUSTIN MARTIN @ Hard Rock, hardrockhotelsd.com Can’t fathom heading home by 10 p.m. after CRSSD ends on Saturday? Dirtybird Records co-founder Justin Martin headlines this CRSSD After Dark event that also includes UK deep house duo, Eli & Fur (aka Eliza Noble and Jennifer Skillman), Brit DJ Will Clarke (his first of two SD appearances in March), and more.

3.2 VALENTINO KHAN @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Last year, this L.A.-based DJ and producer remixed an impressive list of fellow beat makers including Calvin Harris, Diplo, David Guetta, Alison Wonderland, and RL Grime. In January, he joined forces with Kayzo for the joint single, Novocaine.

3.7 BIG WILD @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com After remixing the likes of Odesza, Zhu, and Chvrches, Jackson Stell, aka DJ/producer Big Wild, released his debut album, Superdream, last month. The 12-song collection has already amassed nearly 5 million streams on Spotify.

3.8 KASKADE @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com It’s true. Kaskade, aka superstar DJ Ryan Raddon, is no stranger to San Diego. But this is still a guy that just a few years ago sold out the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista. So it’s an absolute no-brainer when he makes an appearance in the cozy confines of OMNIA.

3.9 ATB @ Parq, parqsd.com Andre Tanneberger, aka German DJ and producer ATB, released his 10th studio album, neXt, in 2017. Last year, he followed it with a new single, Body 2 Body (featuring Conor Matthews & LAUR), and a Morten Granau remix of his 2004 hit, Ecstasy. Tanneberger also took some time off to get married. New music is said to be on the way.

Hotel Garuda

3.15

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Once a duo consisting of Chris Gavino and Aseem Mangaoka, Gavino’s departure last year left the project in Mangaoka’s hands. He brings his One Reason Tour to San Diego — a 16-city swing named after Hotel Garuda’s most recent single featuring Imad Royal and Kiah Victoria.

3.15 SLANDER

3.22 KLINGANDE

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Dubstep duo Derek Andersen and Scott Land have worked with the likes of Skrillex, DJ Snake and Diplo. Since the pair was last here in August, they released their fourth EP, The Headbangers Ball, which features appearances by Riot, Spag Heddy, Elle Vee and Dylan Matthews.

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Reprising an appearance at OMNIA from last July, French tropical house DJ/ producer Klingande (aka Cédric Steinmyller) returns to San Diego after teaming with French producer Broken Back on the single, Wonders. The pair also released a remix EP for their song last November.

3.15 WILL CLARKE + SIAN + LEE K @ Spin, spinnightclub.com Circling back after appearing at CRSSD earlier in the month, bearded beat maker Will Clarke returns with techno DJ (and Octopus Recordings founder) Sian, as well as local DJ Lee K, in tow.

3.16 MATOMA @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Norwegian tropical house DJ Matoma (aka Tom Lagergren) released his sophomore fulllength album, One In A Million, last year. It cracked the top 20 on Billboard’s Top Dance/ Electronic albums and features appearances from Noah Cyrus, Enrique Iglesias, Nina Nesbitt, MAX, and others.

3.22 RICH THE KID @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Dimitri Roger, aka Atlantabased rapper Rich the Kid, released his debut studio album, The World Is Yours, last year. It debuted at No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and features an impressive list of guest rappers including Kendrick Lamar, Future, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross and others. The alreadycompleted follow-up, The World Is Yours 2, was set to drop in January, but is currently on hold.

3.23 MALAA @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Who is the ski mask-wearing DJ known as Malaa? Is it French producer Sebastian Benett?

Is it a rotating duo with DJ Snake and Tchami? Who cares? When he’s cranking out singles as good as Notorious, The Sermon, and We Get Crunk, it shouldn’t matter.

3.29 CUT SNAKE @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Yes, another musical partnership has bitten the dust. The one-time Australian DJ/ production duo of Paul Fisher and Leigh Sedley now features Sedley as its only member. But fans should not fret. “Sedz” is happy to take the helm and more new music is reportedly on the way.

3.30 THE MAGICIAN @ Quartyard, quartyardsd.com Known at one time for doing magic tricks on stage while performing, Belgian DJ/ producer Stephen Fasano pulled a gold record out of his hat when he collaborated with Years & Years on the 2014 single, Sunlight. Fasano’s latest offering, the 2018 track Jalisco, finds him teamed with British house DJ and producer Kideko.

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

GROOVE | SPIN CYCLE

Ready For Her (Next) Close Up Multifaceted talent Chantel Jeffries is set to play BY SCOTT MCDONALD

Even before she signed with Universal Music Group’s 10:22 pm imprint last year, Chantel Jeffries was a DJ. Forget that the 26-yearold had already made quite the name for herself as a model, actress, YouTube star and social media fashion influencer. Music is, and has always been, a driving force in her life. So much so that the lifelong audiophile earned the nickname “Ceejay The DJ” from her closest friends before ever once standing behind the decks as a professional. And it wasn’t long before Jeffries turned that moniker into legit chances to showcase her musical prowess at high-profile gigs such as Coachella and Oscar parties — all of it bolstering the idea that producing was something she needed to take more seriously. Throw in a bit of mentoring and encouragement from superstar friend Diplo, and Jeffries was ready for her inevitable “aha” DJ moment. “It came when I decided to start putting out my own music,” she told PACIFIC recently from her Los Angeles home. “I was playing around with writing and production before that, but it wasn’t something that I definitely knew I was going to do. But after I made that decision, it changed everything.” Last year, Jeffries co-wrote and produced her first single, Wait, which also featured an appearance from Migos rapper (and Cardi B’s husband) Offset. And in February, she released her fourth single, Facts, which featured YG, Rich The Kid and BIA, another track she both co-wrote and produced. While having 4.3 million Instagram followers, and nearly 600K more on Twitter, is an undoubtedly advantageous head start, Jeffries is happy to let her work stand for itself. And barring something unforeseen, there’s much more of it to come.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

PROMOTION

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am working towards a on doing it.” bigger body of work,” For now, Jeffries’ immediate plan is to she said. “I think for continue her 2019 Las Vegas residency me, from the start until with the Hakkasan Group (at OMNIA now, it’s been about Nightclub Las Vegas at Caesars Palace, finding my style and Wet Republic Ultra Pool at MGM Grand groove. I’ve been trying Hotel & Casino and Jewel out different things, seeing what works, Nightclub at ARIA Resort and taking it from there. But everything’s & Casino), as well as working towards that for sure.” performing at their As it stands, the only thing in the way venues in San Diego of Jeffries’ DJ career is, well, her. The (OMNIA Nightclub), Los multifaceted talent, who Cabos and Bali. She’s has been romantically also working on the 3.30 linked to Justin Bieber finishing touches to a CHANTEL JEFFRIES new single, something and basketball player @Omnia, omnianightclub.com Kyrie Irving, still models, (like always) she’ll tease retains an interest in on social media before acting, and has talked in it drops. the past of writing a book. And she’s just And for anyone worried that the not the type of person who is willing to put seemingly unlimited opportunities in front limits on her artistry. of Jeffries could derail the promising start “I feel like all of these things are ways to her latest endeavor, think again. to express myself,” said Jeffries. “And I am “I’ve always been someone who loves someone who is very expressive creatively. music so much,” she said. “DJing is such I always say it’s like an equation and you’re an amazing way to express your love for just plugging in the different variables. I music. And creating something that is your think everything goes hand-in-hand and own is such an amazing feeling. I love it. when the time is right for each thing, I plan And it’s pretty much my life.”

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

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Did You Know? Chantel Jeffries was born in South Carolina, but as the daughter of a Marine colonel, spent her formative years on San Diego’s Coronado Island. She believes the tomboloconnected community’s dedication to the arts was instrumental in her upbringing. Chantel Jeffries was a Wilhelmina model and graduated from Florida International University with a degree in Communication and Fine Arts — earning a 4.0 in the process.

More awesome female DJs While still a male-dominated industry, there are plenty of amazing women working behind the decks these days. Alison Wonderland, Anna Lunoe, Nicole Moudaber, Maya Jane Coles, Tokimonsta, and Nina Kraviz, alongside longtime scene vets like Sandra Collins and Miss Kittin (and so many others) are leading the charge in evening the playing field. And in San Diego, DJs such as Lee K., Ayla Simone and Sam Blacky are among the city’s best and brightest.

@PACIFICSD

MARCH 2019

LOVE | BLIND DATE

BY JENNIFER IANNI PHOTOS BY DAVID BROOKS MATCHMAKER JESSICA PELLIGRA

MISSION: IMPROV-IBLE A pair of blind daters learn to live in the moment

nce upon a time, in a sunny seaside town filled with beaches, craft breweries and great Mexican food, a man and a woman said “yes” to being set up on a blind date for PACIFIC magazine. They agreed to do so in the hopes of finding their one true love, or at the very least, having a fun night out on the town. Both daters were ready to head into the date with open hearts and open minds, wishing that the person they were being set up with might be the one to break their single streak and take them off the market. So what are the odds that this pair of star-crossed lovers had already made a connection, albeit unknowingly? Well, if you’re 28-year-old Ashley or 37-year-old Omid, the odds were in their favor. For the first time ever, according to PACIFIC’s matchmaker, the two daters that were selected to go on 86

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

the PACIFIC blind date had already been introduced (via text), only days prior. And in an even more stunning twist of fate, these two daters had their second date planned before they even went on their first. Talk about meant to be. Before the daters have their moment of serendipity in an Epic limousine, let’s meet them, via their pre-date interviews.

brands amplify their web presence so they can make more money and impact. OMID: I am a partner at Five Marketing & Management, a nightlife-based company providing a variety of services to nightclubs, bars, restaurants and hotels. We also curate experiential-based small festivals like Horizon, Barks N Brews and Bayked.

Where are you from and where do you live now? ASHLEY: I am from Silverdale, Wash., and I currently live in San Diego. OMID: I grew up in Los Angeles, but moved to San Diego in 1999 and have been here since. Currently reside in north Pacific Beach.

What’s your Instagram handle? ASHLEY: @ashley.hann OMID: @omidsabet

What do you do for a living? ASHLEY: I run an online branding and consulting company. I help

Currently, what dating apps can be found on your phone? ASHLEY: (Laughs) All of them and I use none of them. My friends told me to try them, so I created profiles and then forgot about them. Whoops. OMID: Bumble. Where can you be found on the

weekends? ASHLEY: Mostly my house. I’m a bit of a homebody. Otherwise, you can find me at the beach or pool; if it’s nice out, the park with my dog, the gym or out enjoying a nice dinner with friends. OMID: I try to be active with a hike, bike ride or workout. I definitely try to get some uncle time in with my 1-year-old nephew. I also usually go out one night with dinner, drinks and wherever the night takes me. What are you best at? ASHLEY: Always elevating and growing. Also, I’m really great at always figuring things out. I’m super resourceful and I believe there is always a solution to anything and everything. OMID: I’m a great listener, (I’m) understanding and like to think I give good advice.

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LOVE | BLIND DATE

TOP TO BOTTOM: The daters enjoyed their dinner at WhipHand American Brasserie + Beer Bar, which included the lobster roll, the IG Model cocktail (made with vodka, vermouth, strawberry, coconut, citrus and bitters) and the zucchini truffle fries.

What do you suck at? ASHLEY: Singing. But I will 100% do it anyway. Karaoke is one of my favorite things. OMID: Long-term commitment, but I’m working on it.

date? ASHLEY: Being rude to myself or other people, negativity, complaining or gossiping. OMID: A girl that lights up a cigarette.

What are you looking for in a date, physical or otherwise? ASHLEY: Physically, I’d like them to be taller than me and have a nice, kind smile. I tend to prefer dark features, however, I wouldn’t say I have a solid physical “type.” What I am really looking for in a date is someone who is respectful, honest, genuine, open, loving, emotionally intelligent, highly conscious and playful. OMID: Physical attraction definitely grabs the attention, but depth of conversation keeps it. If you’re into yourself too much, I’m good! A strong go-getter personality is a plus.

How many people have you slept with? ASHLEY: I am currently abstinent. OMID: Nice try.

Why do you think you’ll be a good date? ASHLEY: I’m authentic, confident, genuine and I’m great at creating connection, fun and playfulness! I’m also a total goofball. OMID: I don’t think I’ve ever been a bad date. Describe your special brand of sex appeal in a Tweet. ASHLEY: Sweet and silly with a side of spice! OMID: (Aladdin voice) Hop on my carpet and I can show you the world. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. ASHLEY: Nine. OMID: 8.12756. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality. ASHLEY: 10. OMID: 7.49 — sarcasm problems. What’s your cocktail of choice? ASHLEY: A nice glass of wine. OMID: Dirty (vodka) martini on the rocks. What’s a total deal-breaker on a 88

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Fill in the blanks: I want my date to be “blank” and “blank.” ASHLEY: Authentic and fun. OMID: I want my date to be easygoing and ready to have some fun! Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less? ASHLEY: Probably something less. I typically do not kiss on first dates. OMID: No expectations at all. It’ll end how it should. Ashley and Omid appear to have a lot in common. Omid says that having a “go-getter personality” is a plus in his book, while Ashley appears to be ambitious and, yes, a go-getter. They’ve both dabbled in dating apps, but haven’t been lucky in love. There are, however, some key differences: While Ashley claims she’s an abstinent homebody, Omid is a nightlife veteran who likes to hit the town and struggles with longterm commitment. As it turns out, PACIFIC’s matchmaker Jessica wasn’t the only person (or the only Jessica) who thought Omid and Ashley should meet. See, Ashley and Omid have a lot of mutual friends, and completely separate of this blind date, they were set up by another friend (also named Jessica) and already had plans to meet up for a coffee date. Imagine Ashley’s surprise when, upon arriving at her blind date’s house, the limo driver called and Omid showed up. Let’s see if this crazy coincidence alone can get Ashley to break her “no kissing on the first date” rule.

LOVE | BLIND DATE

WHIP IT REAL GOOD

Ashley and Omid take in dinner, then take center stage

shley and Omid are dropped off for dinner at WhipHand American Brasserie + Beer Bank, a hip spot that recently opened in East Village. The trendy eatery is the latest from Grind + Prosper Hospitality, the team behind other notable hotspots such as Park 101 and Miss B’s Coconut Club. It appears that Ashley and Omid are getting along famously, with the conversation (and the drinks) flowing naturally. They dig into a menu filled with elevated comfort foods like Short Rib Fondue and Zucchini Truffle Fries, and before long, it’s time to head to Mission Hills for an improv show at the famed National Comedy Theatre. An improv show differs from a standard comedy show in that the performers, plotline and characters are made up on the spot, with 90

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

suggestions taken from the audience to keep the show fresh, off-the-cuff and entertaining (think Whose Line Is It Anyway?). Many of the biggest names in comedy (like Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell and Keegan Michael-Key) got their start in improv comedy. Ashley and Omid are given priority seating at the show, and are eventually pulled up on stage to participate in several improv games with the cast. They are teamed up against each other in a game that requires them to do slow-motion activities like laundry, as other cast members commentate. The daters are earning their improv stripes, but has Omid earned that kiss? During intermission, the daters are separated for their middate debriefing. How’s it going so far? ASHLEY: It’s going amazing, I’m

having so much fun. OMID: So far, so good. At first glance, would you swipe right or left on your date? ASHLEY: Wait, what’s the good one? Right, I would have swiped right. The good one.

OMID: Definitely right. Is this the type of person you’d normally date? ASHLEY: I don’t know how to answer that. I don’t have a normal type, to be honest. I love that he’s open and we’ve had really deep

LOVE | BLIND DATE conversations, as opposed to being surface. So, yeah, I wouldn’t say he’s the typical guy, I would say he’s his own guy and I’m enjoying getting to know him. OMID: Yes. How was your experience at WhipHand American Brasserie + Beer Bank? ASHLEY: The atmosphere was casual, nice and intimate. We had good food, great conversation and the drinks tasted really good as well. OMID: We tried the zucchini fries, the short ribs and the lobster. All of it was delicious. How was your experience at National Comedy Theatre? ASHLEY: That was really fun. I had a great time, I had fun with it. I was trying my best not to laugh while I was up there, but I was definitely cracking up. OMID: I think I tweaked my neck (on stage), trying too hard to be funny. I think it was fun. What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far? ASHLEY: I would say opening up. Opening up and being willing to talk about deeper stuff. OMID: Her smile is pretty attractive. What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far? ASHLEY: I’m trying to think of something he’s done that’s not

attractive. Honestly, nothing that I can think of right now, but I might come back to it. OMID: Can’t think of anything. Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks. ASHLEY: He’s a nine or a 10 for me. OMID: 10. And for personality? ASHLEY: An eight or a nine. OMID: 10. Did you have a chance to social stalk them? ASHLEY: No. OMID: Nope. Should I? What’s your date’s most attractive physical quality? ASHLEY: His skin. I really like his skin. OMID: She’s in great shape. What’s your date’s least attractive physical quality? ASHLEY: I don’t have anything that’s really sticking out as unattractive. OMID: Pass. Do you want to kiss your date right now? ASHLEY: I don’t kiss on the first date. He’s very attractive. OMID: Sure. Does your date want to kiss you? ASHLEY: I don’t know. OMID: Probably.

Is this someone you’d take home to mom, or just take home? ASHLEY: He could definitely be someone I’d take home to mom. He’s got good values and he’s a family man. From what I know about him so far, he’s a good guy.

OMID: I’d take her home to mom. How and when will the date end? ASHLEY: I think it’s going to end great. I’m having an awesome time. (Laughs) And he already has my number, so I was going to say, I’ll give him my number, but he already has it. OMID: After a couple more drinks and a little more conversation. These two seem to really be vibing with each other. They have a natural chemistry, and it’s easy to see why more than one person thought to set them up. Neither can name anything unattractive the other has done, or name a least-attractive physical quality about the other. Both claim that this is the type of person they’d definitely bring home to mom. And, as Ashley pointed out, they’ve already exchanged phone numbers. This seems like a match made in heaven. After the comedy show wraps up and Omid and Ashley make their final curtain call, the PACIFIC crew leaves the daters to see where the night takes them.

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

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LOVE | BLIND DATE

Manifest Destiny Already dreaming of the future to come

f ever there were pair of daters who seem like they could go the distance, it’s Ashley and Omid. Everything about the date seemed, well, as Ashley would say, serendipitous. It’s almost as if these two were destined to meet, one way or another. And after the PACIFIC crew left, Ashley and Omid spent more time together, having deep conversations and getting more comfortable with each other. Comfortable enough for Omid to score that kiss? Let’s find out.

was a lot of fun. OMID: Everything went really good.

How did everything go? ASHLEY: Everything went really well. I really enjoyed myself. I enjoyed the conversation and I really loved the comedy show. That

Did you guys exchange numbers? ASHLEY: We actually already had each other’s numbers. It’s super serendipitous and really crazy, but basically, we have a mutual friend,

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after the improv show? ASHLEY: We went to Herb & Wood, and we just had a bite to eat there and a glass of wine and just continued our conversations and got to go a little deeper, which was cool, and connect further. And then I went home and he went home. OMID: We went and grabbed a drink and some bites in Little Italy.

a different Jessica, not Jessica (PACIFIC’s matchmaker), (who) put (Omid and me) in a group chat. So we ended up scheduling a coffee date. I put it in my calendar and I kind of just forgot about it, you know? Then Jessica (PACIFIC’s

matchmaker) calls me and sets me up on the blind date. We’re driving over to go pick him up and we arrive at his place, and the driver calls him and says, “Hi, Omid, we’re here.” And when I heard that name, I was like, “Wait. Why does that

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LOVE | BLIND DATE

name sound so familiar? There’s not many Omids.” And so he walks out to the car, and initial impression, I thought he was very handsome. And he gets in and we hug and I go, “Are you friends with Jessica?” And he knew right away. What are the odds that we were set up on two different blind dates by two different Jessicas in the same week? It was super serendipitous and really bizarre. Both Jessicas do not know each other and had no idea. He texted me the next day, after our date, and said something like, if you’re up for it, I’d like to upgrade our (coffee) date to a dinner. OMID: We had exchanged phone numbers the week before our blind date. You can’t make that up at all. We literally have had one text conversation, and we had set a time and date. We only knew each other’s names and phone numbers. Someone had given me a hint beforehand, because we have a mutual friend who was like, “Hey, I hear you’re going on a blind date, 96

MARCH 2019 @PACIFICSD

I hear (Ashley) is going on a blind date,” so like an hour before, I had a hint. But she didn’t know until the driver called me and said my name. Hook up? ASHLEY: No. I mean, we kissed. Which, by the way, I’m not a firstdate kisser, at all. I never kiss on first dates. So rare. It was an innocent kiss. We didn’t make out or anything. It was a nice, end-of-thenight kiss, right when I was being dropped off. He was a gentleman. OMID: We had an end-of-thenight kiss. I’ll leave it at that. What’s the funniest thing that happened during the date? ASHLEY: That’s hard, because the funniest thing initially was obviously the small-world, crazy serendipitous thing, but also the comedy show. We were both cracking up. I manifested it. I kept saying to myself, I really want to go to a comedy show. Another serendipitous thing that we ended

up going to a comedy show, because I’d been saying I wanted to go. OMID: Well, besides the initial encounter where we realized we were supposed to meet, we hopped on stage at the improv show and each had to perform a little piece. That was pretty funny. What was the best part of the date and why? ASHLEY: Our conversation, overall. Starting from when he first got in the car. We had so much to talk about. We have a lot of mutual friends, so it was easy conversation. OMID: I think the whole thing was great. The vibe and the conversation was super free-flowing. There was no awkwardness at all. And it seemed very effortless. What was the worst part of the date and why? ASHLEY: Nothing off the top of my head really. OMID: The worst part of the

date was being rushed through our dinner. I mean, you made me choose a worst part, so I had to give you one. Do you follow each other on Instagram? ASHLEY: Now we do, yeah. OMID: Sure do. Will there be a second date? Why or why not? ASHLEY: Yeah, definitely a second date. We already had one scheduled, and it’s now upgraded to a dinner date. OMID: I think there will definitely be a second date. Do you have any dating tips for your date? ASHLEY: He told me that he’s not usually as open as he was when we were on our date, so my advice would be to keep being open because that works. When you’re open, that paves the way for connection. So staying open.

OMID: No, (just) do her. She dressed amazing. Had a great attitude. And she’s really fun to be around. Any final thoughts, parting words, shout-outs or anything else to add? ASHLEY: Shout out to the National Comedy Theatre for putting on an amazing, fun and entertaining show. I had a great time there and would definitely go back. OMID: I was very apprehensive going into the date and Jess [PACIFIC’s matchmaker] told me not to worry and she was right. She nailed it on the match. I guess my parting words would be sometimes, go outside of your comfort zone. And that, dear readers, is what they call destiny. Or coincidence. Or happenstance. Or, of course, serendipity. Whatever you call it, like Omid said, you really can’t make this stuff up. Ashley and Omid certainly make a cute couple. And this whole thing makes for a great story. We can just see Ashley and Omid sitting around one day, 50 years from now, telling their grandkids the story of how they met: they were set up, two different times, by two different Jessicas, in the same week. And their first date was featured in a magazine, recorded for posterity and as a testament to the fact that, if you keep an open mind, are willing to step out of your comfort zone, or if you at least trust in the way the universe works, you could wind up meeting the person you were destined to be with. And, by the way, if Ashley and Omid do end up living happily ever after, PACIFIC expects an invite to the wedding.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Daters’ answers may have been edited for length and clarity.

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STATUS UPDATE CHECKING IN WITH LAST MONTH’S BLIND DATERS Dedicated PACIFIC readers might remember blind daters Ian and Katrina (February 2019 issue), who spent a busy day learning about bees — but by date’s end, they were not calling each other “honey.” We checked in with our not-so-sweet-on-each-other duo to see what’s happened since being featured in PACIFIC magazine. Here’s what they had to say about their current status. What were the reactions of your friends/family after you went on the date? KATRINA: Most of my close friends knew I was going on the blind date ahead of time. There definitely were several who reached out to me once they saw it in print. Everyone thought it was funny and that I was a great candidate for going on a blind date. IAN: They said that she’s not my type. I agreed. Has your opinion of the date changed since you went on it? KATRINA: My opinion of our date has not changed, Ian is a very nice guy and I wish him the best in his search for love. IAN: No. What did you learn? KATRINA: That I can go on a nine-hour blind date and enjoy myself knowing from the beginning there was no love interest. IAN: Katrina is a good person and enjoyable to be around. And everyone has their moments, but if someone can’t accept you for the person that you are, even when wearing a lab coat for the purpose of the activity, then she is not for you.

PACIFIC embellished on her responses about me from some of the questions that were asked. Would you ever go on another blind date, either in a magazine or otherwise? KATRINA: I would definitely go on another blind date. I am open to finding love. IAN: I would go on another blind date (for) a magazine or other source as long as they abide and honor how I’ve described what I am seeking for my ideal girl. In case you are wondering, I’m into Latina women with curves that are brunette because they have special powers that they cast magical spells on me. And I like it. So if I get an opportunity, I promise not to wear a lab coat, unless there is chemistry. WRAP UP Read about and watch videos from all of PACIFIC’s blind dates at pacificsandiego.com/magazine/blind-date.

Anyone slide into your DMs since the blind date went to print? KATRINA: No one has slid into my DMs since the date printed. IAN: No. But I contacted Katrina on Instagram about the article on our date just to clarify a few things about what she said about me because I believe

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MARCH 2019