PACIFIC San Diego Magazine, May 2017 by Pacific San Diego Magazine

WHO MAKES SAN DIEGO’S

BEST

MARGARITA?

VENUES COMPETE TO ANSWER THE QUESTION! #MARGARITAMONTH

MAY 2017

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

¿TIJUANA COME OVER?

HEAD SOUTH FOR ARTS, CULTURE, MUSIC, THE XOLOS, SHOPPING, DINING, FOOD TRUCKS, CRAFT CERVEZA, TJ’S FIRST-EVER SPEAKEASY + A CROSS-BORDER OVERNIGHT BLIND DATE

SUNDAYS W E E K L Y

M AY

2 1 S T

GRAND OPENING PA RTY

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A T

1 : 0 0 P M

M AY

2 8 T H

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A DV E RT I S E M E N T

THE FUTURE OF WORK: HOW OFFICES ARE CHANGING FOR THE BETTER A FLEXIBLE, DYNAMIC WORK SPACE GREATLY IMPROVES COLLABORATION AND PRODUCTIVITY BY JENNIFER MATTSON Work, as we know it, is changing fast – and in ways most people can’t even imagine. It’s not just that jobs are changing; it’s also how we work, where we work, and how employers are adapting to these new rules. “The future of work is all about employee experience,” says Jacob Morgan, the bestselling author of The Future of Work. An authority on how the workplace is evolving, Morgan says employers need to change their approach if they want tao attract and retain key talent. “It comes down to three things: giving employees physical workspaces they want, having up-to-date technology (the tools they need), and a culture they can celebrate,” says Morgan. His latest book on the topic, The Employee Experience Advantage, was released in March.

THE HUMAN CONNECTION A dynamic work environment shapes the whole employee experience. Morgan says the design of a space can greatly influence collaboration and productivity. Founders at forward-thinking companies agree. At Austin-based Loom, a work-forequity platform that connects entrepreneurs with developers, founder Chase White gives employees a choice of workspaces. “We have a small warehouse space on the east side of Austin for private meetings, but a lot of the times it makes more sense to shake up our atmosphere,” says White. “WeWork Congress gives us a good opportunity for happenstance run-ins, new inspiration – having a flexible workspace helps us stay energized.”

DESIGN FOR DEEP THINKING

One type of space that every office needs is one that fosters complete concentration. Many WeWork locations feature a quiet room that serves this purpose “Deep work is what moves the needle,” says Cal Newport, author of Deep Work. “All in all, if you’re excellent at giving things intense concentration, this will act like a super power in the knowledge economy.”

Newport says, in the future, people will need to be able to do specialized work to set them apart. That requires the ability to focus, which helps people quickly learn new things, enabling them to work faster and at a higher level. “I like to tell entrepreneurs that kind of shallow work might keep you from going bankrupt, but it’s the deep work that will create the things that allows your company to grow,” Newport says. At the forefront of this movement, companies like Microsoft need space for a mobile, flexible workforce. Although Microsoft has a headquarters in New York City, the company’s General Manager, Matt Donovan, says that having employees work out of WeWork locations enabled more efficient opportunities for a sales team that fanned out over the region. “We started to see how WeWork’s footprint across New York could add efficiency for employees meeting with customers and clients,” says Donovan. Microsoft gave 300 members of its sales staff access to all WeWork locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. It cuts down on transit time, giving them time to meet with more customers during the day. A preliminary survey of Microsoft employees in New York found that 84 percent said access to WeWork makes them more productive during the workday.

BUILD THE BEST PLACE TO WORK

WeWork San Diego offers members the everyday perks that keep you energized and efficient like endless hot coffee, dedicated front desk service and modern conference rooms. If you’re looking for a strong community of professionals from San Diego’s biggest industries, you’ll feel right at home at WeWork. Join us at WeWork San Diego, where we’re creating the future of coworking.

WEWORK SAN DIEGO 600 B ST., STE. 300, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 877.352.3685, WEWORK.COM

MOTHER’S DAY

IN SPAIN!

’s

n ote

DON’T TAKE A FENCE There hasn’t been this much talk about building walls since Pink Floyd released “The Wall” in 1979. But rather than try to reach across the aisle, which is a long shot for politicians (not to mention citizens) these days, PACIFIC reaches across the border this month, heading south for a big slice of Tijuana today.

4/24/17

Once chiefly a tequila-infused tourist trap, TJ’s famed Avenida Revolución is now lined with art galleries, restaurants and other entertainment offerings the city’s residents adore (see page 62). Craft-beer venues are sprinkled around town; Club Tijuana’s soccer team, the Xolos, draw sold-out crowds; and there’s a new boutique hotel called OneBunk that makes the burgeoning metropolis the obvious choice for an upcoming staycation.

Special 9-Course Tapas Brunch & Paella Valenciana 11:09 AM

Featuring Flamenco Dance Performances

Before Mexico decides (with good reason) not to let Americans in, consider a visit to San Diego’s closest sister city. The food is great, the people are warm, and, after flipping through this TJ-focused edition of PACIFIC, you’ll know many of the must-visit locales that give this urban hotspot local flavor and international appeal.

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

Or just stay in San Diego and taste the 34 margaritas competing in the third annual Margarita Month (see page 52). Ready, set, Gringo!

MOTHER’S DAY

IN SPAIN!

Sincerely,

A fútbol match at Tijuana’s Estadio Caliente (see page 62).

Special 9-Course Tapas Brunch & Paella Valenciana Featuring Flamenco Dance Performances

353 Fifth Ave • San Diego • 619-233-5979 • CafeSevilla.com 10

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

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

RESTAURANT &TAPAS BAR

David Perloff, Editor-in-Chief

LUXURY HILLTOP LIVING Perched on a private bluff just minutes from downtown San Diego, The Village Mission Valley Apartment Homes is a contemporary community with an energy and spirit all its own. Experience unrivaled luxury living, including five pools, a running trail, Vivant Bistro & Craft bar, and on-site Village Market. Featuring one- to three-bedroom apartments and townhomes with upgraded appliances, it’s easy to see why The Village Mission Valley was named California Apartment Association’s 2016 Property of the Year (301+ units).

VillageMissionValley.com

PROUD TO BE AWARDED

(Not actual size)

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

VOLUME #11 ISSUE #5 MAYO 2017

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

David Perloff C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R

Kenny Boyer D I G I TA L D I R E C TO R

Leslie Hackett M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

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

John McCutchen

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

C O N T R I B U T I N G E D I TO R S

Michele Parente, Michael James Rocha CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Poseidon on the beach

Michael Benninger, Liz Bowen, Jackie Bryant, Lisa Deaderick, Laurie Delk, Sandra Dibble, Maya Kroth, Scott McDonald, Karla Peterson, Sarah Pfledderer, Peter Rowe, George Varga, Mark Zeigler C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E R S

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

Brevin Blach, Alejandro Tamayo P H OTO E D I TO R

Alma Cesena S PA N I S H - L A N G UAG E C O PY E D I TO R S

Tania Navarro, Lilia O’Hara E D I TO R I A L I N T E R N

Chloe Salsameda

PUBLISHER

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

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

Jeremy Lang, Alyson Tietze D I ST R I B U T I O N M A N AG E R

7 Stages! 100+ Performances! Zydeco, Cajun, Blues,

Swing, Salsa & New Orleans Jazz! Hot Louisiana Crawfish Boils! For Event Schedule and Ticket Info!

GatorByTheBay.com 14

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Thursday, May 11th Marcia Ball in Concert Friday, May 12th 3:30 PM - 10:30 PM Saturday - Sunday, May 13th - 14th Music All Day! 10:30 AM - 8 PM

Greg Johannsen Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

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

619.296.6300

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

@PACIFICSD

GOOD

T T O O

T T H H E E

LAST SHOP

FOR A A LIST LIST OF OF O O UR UR FI FI NE NE T T ENANTS, ENANTS, VISI VISI T T P PH H RVI RVI LLAGE.COM LLAGE.COM FOR

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

LA MESA, 91941 Stunning, modern new-construction home in desirable La Mesa location with panoramic views. This 7,118 square-foot home (plus 340 square-foot art studio) by award-winning designer and builder Mel Taylor features 5 bedrooms 6 bathrooms, plus a theater room, music room, recording studio, gym, pool and meditation room. High-end finishes and striking details throughout include high ceilings, wood floors, large windows and skylights, 4 fireplaces inside, custom built-ins and large 2-car garage. Two oversized decks off of the living areas with an outdoor fireplace are perfect for entertaining. Enjoy views all the way to the ocean on clear days. The perfect home for San Diego’s finest indoor/outdoor living. 4580 Panorama Dr., La Mesa, CA 91941; $2,750,000

MARKET UPDATE The market is continuing to be on an upward trend. Even with interest rates on the rise, they are still at a historic low and buyers confidence in the market place is at an ultimate high. Spring is in the air which is typically the best time to sell so all the factors of a strong real estate market are here and in effect. It’s a great time to buy and sell in San Diego!

MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI

Broker/Realtor (R)

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

MARKET STATS (March 2017 data shown) Homes for sale: 60 Homes sold: 28 Highest price: $2,750,000 Lowest price: $289,000 Median home price: $727,181

AG AV E

EX P R ESS IO N ISM

MILAGRO MEANS MIRACLE

TWO DOZEN MINI MARGARITAS INCLUDED WITH EVENT TICKET (DETAILS PAGE 52)

TASTE MARGARITAS HANDCRAFTED BY DOZENS OF THE CITY’S TOP BARTENDERS AT THE THIRD ANNUAL

MARGARITA MONTH GRAND TASTING EVENT

¡MARIACHIS, MEXICAN MUNCHIES Y MUCHO MAS! (LIKE DJS + LIVE MUSIC)

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 AT DOWNTOWN’S HORTON GRAND HOTEL

PURCHASE TICKETS AT

margaritamonth.com

DRINK RESPONSIBLY, OBVIOUSLY.

#margaritamonth

CONTENTS

FIVE.SEVENTEEN / FEATURES

MAY

F E AT U R E S

52 MARGARITA MONTH A celebration of San Diego’s original craft cocktail

62 ¿TIJUANA VISIT? Wanna see TJ today? Here’s how…

ON THE COVER: Florent Restaurant & Lounge’s “In Bloom” is one of 34 margaritas that thousands of San Diegans will enjoy during the third annual Margarita Month, a celebration of San Diego’s original craft cocktail (see page 52). Florent took First Place at the 2015 and 2016 Margarita Month Grand Tasting Events (see page 19), which is why its margarita is on the cover of this issue. The winner of 2017’s Grand Tasting Event (June 17 at Horton Grand Hotel) will be on the cover in May 2018. It’s like a circle of life, if life were all about tequila. (Isn’t it?) ¡Salud! Photo by Brevin Blach. ON THIS PAGE: A mural in Tijuana’s Pasaje Rodriguez reads “todos samos migrantes” (“we are all immigrants”). Photo by Alejandro Tamayo. (See story, page 62.)

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

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

DOWNTOWN, 92101 Perched on the 32nd floor of The Grande N, residence 3206 abounds with beautiful sweeping views from Coronado to Point Loma & beyond. South West orientation provides stunning views & volumes of natural light in this ideal 2 bed + den floorplan. This immaculate property features gleaming cherry wood floors, GE Profile & Bosch Appliances, marble & travertine baths, 2 car parking & storage. Amenities include stunning club room, concierge, pool, spa, sun deck, fitness, steam, guest suite, conf room & more. 1205 Pacific Highway #3206, San Diego, CA 92101; $1,585,000

MARKET UPDATE It is officially the hot season in real estate. The inventory of homes is steadily climbing, which is great news for buyers. 2017 is set to be one of the best years in real estate for San Diego. If you are looking to buy or sell property, this is your year.Â

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

MARKET STATS (March 2017 data shown) Homes for sale: 193 Homes sold: 59 Highest price: $2,100,000 Lowest price: $280,000 Median home price: $519,000

CONTENTS

FIVE.SEVENTEEN / DEPARTMENTS

MAY

D E PA R T M E N T S CURRENTS 24 Five.Seventeen Event calendar 34 Laughing Stock May stand-up comedy shows

PULSE 36 Art Beat May gallery and exhibition openings 44 Curtain Calls Performing arts preview 46 Reel Cool May motion- picture preview

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

TA S T E 84 A Dos of Something New Two fresh tastes of Mexico in San Diego

GROOVE 92 Sounds Like a Plan May concert calendar

LOVE 104 Crossing the Line An international blind-date adventure

102 Take a Spin Upcoming EDM and DJ performances

Baywatch opens May 25 (see story, page 46).

CURRENTS

FIVE.SEVENTEEN / EVENTS

MAY

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

5.6

FESTIVAL OF COLORS

PIER AMPHITHEATER, OCEANSIDE, FESTIVALOFCOLORSUSA.COM

Celebrate the ancient Indian tradition of Holi by singing, dancing and throwing bags of colored cornstarch in what is billed as the “world’s happiest transformational event.” >>>

ERIN PRITCHETT

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

5.5-5.7 34TH ANNUAL FIESTA OLD TOWN CINCO DE MAYO Throughout Old Town cincodemayooldtown.com Libations, lowriders and lucha libre wrestlers are just a few reasons to attend this threeday Cinco de Mayo celebration that’s the largest of its kind this side of the border.

5.4 8TH ANNUAL TASTE OF CARDIFF Throughout Cardiff cardiff101.com Treat your taste buds, excite your eardrums and bask in the area’s beauty during this self-guided stroll to Cardiff’s most alluring eateries, featuring several in-between “sip stops” serving swigs of North County’s best beers and wines.

5.6 26TH ANNUAL PUG PARTY

5.7 SPRING SPRINT TRIATHLON & DUATHLON South Shores Park, Mission Bay kozevents.com/Triathlons Virgin racers and tried-and-true triathletes kick-off the Triple Crown Series by swimming across the still waters of Mission Bay before biking and running along a relatively approachable route. >>>

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

5.7 43RD ANNUAL CARLSBAD VILLAGE FAIRE

NTC Park, Liberty Station miraclebabies.org Dress up as your favorite superhero as you walk or run around NTC Park in support of families with newborns in neonatal intensive care units.

Grand Avenue, Carlsbad carlsbad.org Listen to live bands while perusing the wares of more than 800 merchants at the nation’s largest one-day street fair replete with a beer garden and 50-booth international food court.

ENDURANCE SPORTS PHOTO

Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar pugsandiego.com Prepare for the “Pug Apocalypse” as more than 400 of the county’s cutest and cuddliest canines descend upon the Del Mar Fairgrounds for this furry fundraiser hosted by Pug Rescue of San Diego County.

5.7 9TH ANNUAL MIRACLE BABIES 5K 2017

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

2 4 H O U R S A D AY

SUN’S OUT, BUNS OUT. GETTING READY FOR SUMMER? HERE’S WHAT TO EAT BETWEEN WORKOUTS.

$4 CRAFT BREWS (4-7 P.M. DAILY) DOWNTOWN’S ONLY FULL-SERVICE 24/7 RESTAURANT

BRIAN’S 24’S PEANUT BUTTER BURGER. T H E R E S TA U R A N T T H AT N E V E R S L E E P S ®

828 SIXTH AVENUE

GASLAMP QUARTER

619.702.8410

BRIANS24.COM

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

THELL PHOTOGRAPHY

5.12 SURFRIDER 17TH ANNUAL ART GALA & AUCTION Paradise Point Resort, Mission Bay sandiego.surfrider.org Gain an appreciation for ocean-inspired art, music and fashion, then bid on coveted original creations with all proceeds helping to protect San Diego’s waterways.

5.11-5.14 GATOR BY THE BAY Spanish Landing Park, downtown gatorbythebay.com Indulge your love for Louisiana at this annual four-day festival boasting more than 100 musical acts and an overwhelming amount of Cajun and creole cuisine.

5.12-5.13 QUEEN BEE MARKET

BRADLEY SCHWEIT

Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar thequeenbeemarket.com Shop till you drop at this craft bonanza showcasing the latest trends and styles in clothing, home decor, accessories and more.

5.13 HILLCREST CRAFT BEER CRAWL Hillcrest Brewing Company, Hillcrest hillcrestcraftbeercrawl.com Develop a deeper fondness for craft brews at this event that aims to engage more members of San Diego’s LGBT community with the city’s booming beer scene.

5.12 MAMA’S DAY 2017 Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine, La Jolla mamaskitchen.org A consortium of San Diego’s most celebrated chefs will prepare a bevy of unforgettable dishes at this event benefiting Mama’s Kitchen, a nonprofit that delivers food to locals affected by AIDS and cancer.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

5.13 CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL San Diego Botanic Gardens, Encinitas sdbgarden.org Send your sweet tooth into the stratosphere at this chocoholic’s playground that includes dozens of decadent tastings, educational demonstrations and a deluge of desserts. >>>

CU R R E N T S JON DURR

CALENDAR

5.14 MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION

5.18 BIKE TO WORK DAY

Flower Fields, Carlsbad theflowerfields.com What better way to show Mom you love her than by inviting her to feast her eyes on 50 acres of flowers at this colorful celebration in Carlsbad.

Countywide icommutesd.com Promote biking as a better way to get around by pedaling to work, and swing by any of the 100 pit stops throughout the county to pick up a free shirt and some healthy snacks.

ALAN CROSTHWAITE PHOTOGRAPHY

5.18-21 19TH ANNUAL CELEBRITY CHAMPIONSHIP Morgan Run Club & Resort, Rancho Santa Fe celebritychampionship.com Join NFL Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk as he hosts more than 50 celebrity golfers in a 36-hole, weekend-long competition benefiting both the Junior Seau Foundation and the Marshall Faulk Foundation.

Waterfront Park, Little Italy sdtacofest.com Sink your teeth into tacos from 30 of the county’s finest Mexican restaurants while listening to live local music, then check out the Chihuahuas competing in a race challenge and beauty contest.

COREY HART

5.20 SAN DIEGO TACO FEST

5.20 OPERATION APPRECIATION FOR ARMED FORCES DAY Oceanside Pier Amphitheatre, Oceanside visitoceanside.org/oceanside-events-calendar Express your appreciation for Camp Pendleton’s active-duty military and check out some of the Armed Forces’ latest vehicles as thousands of service members and their families enjoy a day of free food and entertainment.

5.20-21 FIESTA DEL SOL

5.20 NORTH PARK FESTIVAL OF ARTS

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

DANIEL KNIGHTON

Throughout North Park northparkmainstreet.com With a karaoke stage, a cocktail garden and unlimited tasters from more than 30 local brewers, there’s no reason not to attend this free festival spotlighting some of the city’s most artistic individuals.

Fletcher Cove, Solana Beach fiestadelsol.net From rock to reggae and funk to the blues, this eclectic musical extravaganza also welcomes a fleet of food trucks and oodles of arts and crafts vendors among other local exhibitors. >>>

Grand Opening May 20th p osh an dpolish edsd.com

CU R R E N T S CALENDAR

5.20-21 FIRST OVER THE LINE AND CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Mariner’s Point, Mission Bay Park ombac.org Locals love the annual Over the Line tournament (taking place in July), hosted by the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club (OMBAC). This year, catch an earlier buzz at the first-ever OTL minitournament and craft beer festival, which are separate events from the Over the Line World Championships and aim to garner greater participation in Over the Line, while catering to San Diego’s craft beer-loving community.

5.21 THE NAVY’S 31ST BAY BRIDGE RUN/WALK San Diego-Coronado Bridge, downtown navylifesw.com Take in sweeping views of the bay and support San Diego’s service members while walking or running four miles from downtown to Tidelands Park via the San Diego-Coronado Bridge.

5.21 ESCONDIDO STREET FAIRE (AKA GRAND AVENUE FESTIVAL)

5.23 I LOVE POKE FESTIVAL

Grand Avenue, downtown Escondido visitescondido.com California’s second-largest street fair is back and bigger than ever with 500-plus merchants, hours of live entertainment and even more all-age amusements.

Bali Hai Restaurant, Shelter Island onoyum.com Sample seafood creations conjured up by the city’s top chefs at this eighth annual tasting event, then cast a vote for your favorite fish dish in the city’s signature poke competition.

5.28 VISTA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Main Street, Vista, vistastrawberryfest.com Formerly hailed as the Strawberry Capital of the World, Vista’s affinity for the florid fruit lives on during this celebration chock full of live entertainment, local craft brews and a cornucopia of contests.

5.27 9TH ANNUAL ALL WHITE CRUISE: A TRIBUTE TO CUBA San Diego Harbor, downtown saboronthebay.com Pay tribute to Cuba while wearing your brightest whites aboard this lavish three-hour harbor cruise offering three floors of music, five fully stocked bars and a cigar lounge on the yacht’s sprawling outdoor deck.

PADRES HOME GAMES

N E LV I N C . C E P E D A

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

5.2-5.4 vs. Colorado Rockies 5.5-5.7 vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 5.8-5.9 vs. Texas Rangers 5.15-5.18 vs. Milwaukee Brewers 5.19-5.21 vs. Arizona Diamondbacks 5.29-5.31 vs. Chicago Cubs

THE WEST COASTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MUST-ATTEND DIGITAL MARKETING CONFERENCE. Come, be inspired by leading trailblazers in brand, marketing, tech, and digital who will share inspiring stories that are shaping the future of our industry.

interactivedaysandiego.com

#IDSD2017

featuring speakers from:

CU R R E N T S COMEDY

LAUGHING STOCK

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

MAY STAND-UP ROUND UP

5.11-13

RON FUNCHES

— Ron Funches on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

LAWRENCE K. HO/LOS ANGELES TIMES

“I DO LIKE YOUR SUMMERS HERE IN NEW YORK. IT’S BEAUTIFUL. I LOVE THE SUMMER. I’M A SUMMERTIME BOY. IT’S MY FAVORITE TIME TO JUST RELAX AND SMOKE A LITTLE POT. THAT’S MY SUMMER THING. IT’S ALSO MY WINTER THING.”

5.4 Gabriel Iglesias

5.19-20 Steve Rannazzisi

“Me, racist? The only race I hate is the one you have to run.” — Gabriel Iglesias from I’m Not Fat, I’m Fluffy @ Pala Casino, palacasino.com

5.4-6 Rachel Feinstein “I went out with this guy and I went back to his home, and he took off his clothes and he had ... a belly-button ring. I was so angry; I wanted answers. I was like, ‘Why do you have a belly-button ring? You have a man-stomach. It’s not like a naughty little space you hang charms off of.” — Rachel Feinstein on Amy Schumer Presents Rachel Feinstein: Only Whores Wear Purple @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“I used to eat a pot cookie on the way to the airport, so, by the time the plane took off, it would kick in, and my anxiety would be okay. But here’s the problem. The pot-cookie business is not a regulated industry. There’s no quality control whatsoever. Nabisco doesn’t make pot cookies. I don’t know what those Keebler elves are doing in that f**king tree, but you’d think, if anybody was going to make a pot cookie, it’d be an elf in a tree. But they don’t. They’re lazy. Potheads make pot cookies, so it’s not an exact science.” — Steve Rannazzisi on Comedy Central Uncensored @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.comedystore.com

5.19-21 Norm MacDonald ”I feel the same way about slaves as I do about shirts with flame patterns on them: I don’t want to be friends with anyone who owns either of them.” — Norm MacDonald on Norm MacDonald Live @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

5.5-6 Tom Green

5.25-27 brooks wheelan

“Melania Trump, by the way, is Donald Trump’s third wife, so she’s actually the Third Lady.”

“Cocaine should just be called, ‘Oh, no, it’s tomorrow!’ That’s all that happens. You just do it, then whoopsies, the sun’s out. … Whenever that drug is offered, someone should be required to yell ‘Hey, who wants to panic alone in their bed later?’”

— Tom Green on CBC’s 22 Minutes @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.comedystore.com

— Brooks Wheelan on This Is Cool, Right? @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

5.12-13 jeff dye “A lot of people are surprised when they find out that I’m not gay. Mostly my dad and grandfather.” — Jeff Dye on “Live from Madison” @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.comedystore.com

5.26-27 Murray Valeriano “‘I’m going to release my tax returns’ is what I say when I excuse myself to go to the bathroom.” — Murray Valeriano on Twitter @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.comedystore.com

G A B R I E L I G L E S I A S BY A P P H OTO / N I C K U T; ST E V E R A N N A Z Z I S I BY C H R I STO P H E R P O L K / G E T T Y I M AG E S F O R C O M E DY C E N T R A L ; R AC H E L F E I N S T E I N BY S T E P H E N LOV E K I N / G E T T Y I M AG E S ; N O R M M AC D O N A L D BY K E VO R K DJA N S E Z I A N / G E T T Y I M AG E S ; TO M G R E E N BY E T H A N M I L L E R / G E T T Y I M AG E S ; B R O O K S W H E E L A N BY A L B E RTO E . R O D R I G U E Z / G E T T Y I M AG E S F O R T U R N E R ; J E F F DY E BY M AT T W I N K E L M E Y E R / G E T T Y I M AG E S ; M U R R AY VA L E R I A N O BY F R E D E R I C K M . B R OW N / G E T T Y I M AG E S .

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

PUlSE

ART BEAT / GALLERY & EXHIBIT OPENINGS

5.27-10.8

“MEANING IN BRONZE” OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART

704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3720, oma-online.org In partnership with the Veterans Art Project, the museum facilitates the process of bronze casting to teach skills for creating art — and creating space for veterans to share their stories. >>>

“Faces Cast of Anthony LoBue,” 2017.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

MAY

BY LISA DEADERICK

P U L S E A R T B E AT

5.5-28 “TAVERN — A Visual Arts Exploration of Beer Culture” THE STUDIO DOOR 3750 30th St., North Park 619.255.4920, thestudiodoor.com Paintings inspired by vintage beer ads, photos of cold ones, collages using beer coasters and other original pieces celebrate the lifestyle and culture of bars and pubs.

ABOVE: “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” by Steven Paulsen. RIGHT: “So Begins the Hunt,” by Linda Adair.

5.13-6.3 “Linda Adair: Echoes” DISTINCTION GALLERY 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido 760.781.5779, distinctionart.com Artist Linda Adair, a contemporary figurative painter working primarily in oils, brings her first solo exhibition to Escondido and will attend the opening reception on May 13.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

May 31, 2017

Passionate Winemakers Sustainable Vineyards Exclusive Imports

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

$16 for 8 tastes $10 for 5 tastes

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

P U L S E A R T B E AT

5.19-8.20 “Andrea Chung: You Broke the Ocean in Half to Be Here” MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO, JACOBS BUILDING 1100 & 1001 Kettner Blvd., downtown 858.454.3541, mcasd.org Photographic blueprints of a non-native species of fish that have grown in the Caribbean, ruining the ecosystem, serve as an allegory for colonization as the artist explores the histories of Caribbean island nations.

5.20 “Gallery in the Street” UNIVERSITY AVENUE AND IOWA STREET, NORTH PARK 619.255.4920, thestudiodoor.com, northparkmainstreet.com North Park Main Street and The Studio Door have partnered in this outdoor art festival to celebrate local artists and bring more of the work of regional visual artists to the area. >>>

5.19 “Behind the Scenes with Richard Deacon” SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART, JAMES S. COPLEY AUDITORIUM 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.232.7931, sdmart.org The museum’s curator of modern and contemporary art will lead a lecture and tour on “Richard Deacon: What You See Is What You Get,” featuring the work of the British contemporary sculptor.

CLOCKWISE (from top left): “Crowning II,” by Andrea Chung; photo by Maria Wiles; “Dancing in Front of My Eyes,” by Richard Deacon.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

SAN DIEGOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

BEST FISH TACOS

(SERVED WITH RICE, BEANS & A KILLER VIEW)

FRESHSHUCKED OYSTERS + $2 OYSTER SHOOTERS W/ PEPPERED VODKA + 1/2-PRICE PITCHERS FRIDAYS 7 P.M. - CLOSE

SOUTH BEACH BAR & GRILLE

5059 NEWPORT AVE., #104 OCEAN BEACH, 619.226.4577

SOUTHBEACHOB.COM

PULLED PORK SLIDERS + $3 PINTS OF BEER SATURDAYS 7 P.M. - CLOSE

P U L S E A R T B E AT

5.24-9.30 “Sebastiao Salgado: Genesis” MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.238.7559, mopa.org A tribute to nature’s untouched beauty, this photography exhibit focuses on the landscapes, animals and people that have remained isolated from the modern world.

OGEID NAS ,STRA CIHPARGOTOHP FO MUESUM

CLOCKWISE (from top right): Photo by Sebastião Salgado; “Citta Samtana Diptych,” by James Verbicky; “Littoral Drift #06,” by Meghann Riepenhoff; art by Ted Meyer; photo by Chi Essary.

5.20-7.2 “ExtraOrdinary Collusion” SAN DIEGO ART INSTITUTE 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.236.0011, sandiego-art.org Artists teamed up with scientists from the Salk Institute in this exhibit, creating works in painting, sculpture, installation, new media and conceptual art.

5.27-9.17 “Ted Meyer: Scarred for Life” OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside 760.435.3720, oma-online.org In this exhibit, enhanced monoprints that have been taken from the scarred skin of people who’ve been through trauma are placed alongside photograph portraits of each person taken by the artist. Each has a story written by the subject to convey resilience and healing.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

5.27-7.2 “James Verbicky: Luminescent Mind” MADISON GALLERY 1055 Wall St., Ste. 100, La Jolla 858.459.0836, madisongalleries.com Works in this exhibit use various materials to create three-dimensional surfaces that meld traditional painting and sculpting, resulting in pieces both conceptual and abstract.

THROUGH 7.16 “All Natural” SDSU DOWNTOWN GALLERY 725 W. Broadway, downtown 619.501.6370, art.sdsu.edu/ sdsu-downtown-gallery Artists work with natural, or naturally occurring, materials to create pieces that intersect with ideas about sustainability and present unusual uses for rock, minerals, precious metals and clay.

THROUGH 10.8 “Kanban: Traditional Shop Signs of Japan” MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.239.0003, mingei.org Go back in time to the traditional streetside advertising that Japanese merchants created to entice shoppers — using all sorts of materials and creating scenes of carp and waterfalls, deities or Buddhist prayer beads.

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

P U L S E

BY SARAH PFLEDDERER

PERFORMING ARTS

M A Y

P E R F O R M I N G

5.4-6.4: Ballast

5.9-14: Jersey Boys

DIVERSIONARY THEATRE 4545 Park Blvd., Ste. 101, University Heights 619.220.0097, diversionary.org Concentrating on two relationships running parallel, this world-premiere play paints a dreamscape about coming to grips with gender transitions, personal identities, desires and spirituality.

SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — and now the San Diego stage — don’t take your eyes off of the life story of pop quartet The Four Seasons.

5.5-14: Lion King Jr.

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla 858.550.1010, lajollaplayhouse.org Jimmy Buffett’s Broadway-bound musical, set in the imaginary paradise of Margaritaville, follows a laid-back local having his heart stolen by a beautiful tourist with something he lacks: a serious career.

LYCEUM SPACE 79 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.544.1000, sdrep.org Arms Wide Open — a nonprofit empowering individuals with special needs through performing arts — acts out this Disney film adaptation about a young lion cub discovering his destiny.

5.5-28: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? PATIO PLAYHOUSE 116 S. Kalmia St., Escondido 760.746.6669, patioplayhouse.com Martha’s attempt to seduce another woman’s husband in the face of her own backfires when a defining secret of her crumbling marriage is revealed.

5.7: The Test CORONADO PLAYHOUSE 1835 Strand Way, Coronado 619.435.4856, coronadoplayhouse.com Pencils down. Time’s up … for Mimi to discover whether or not she passed the standardized college entrance exam, making this one-night-only musical comedy relatable to any college student wannabe.

5.9-6.18: Escape to Margaritaville

5.12-6.11: Having Our Say NEW VILLAGE ARTS THEATRE 2787 State St., Carlsbad 760.433.3245, newvillagearts.org Originally unveiled by The New York Times in 1991, see Sarah and Elizabeth Delany’s century-long biography come alive, following the sisters breaking civil rights barriers to become a high school teacher and dentist in Harlem.

A R T S

5.13-6.18: The Old Man and The Old Moon

5.25-6.18: The Revolutionists

THE OLD GLOBE THEATRE 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org As old men do, this one has something to tend to: refilling light in the moon. That is, until the love of his life tests whether or not he will tend to her, too.

MOXIE THEATRE 6663 El Cajon Blvd., Ste. N, College Area 858.598.7620, moxietheatre.com A playwright, an assassin, an activist and a former queen prove themselves as a comedic force to be reckoned with at the height of violence during the French Revolution.

5.18-6.18: Shockheaded Peter CYGNET THEATRE 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town 619.337.1525, cygnettheatre.com Sinister meets child’s play in this fantastical fable about a music box churning out Victorian nightmares of naughty children and misguided parents.

5.18-7.2: Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story THE HORTON GRAND THEATRE 444 Fourth Ave., downtown 760.433.3245, intrepidtheatre.org Recall the too-brief lifespan and musical career of Buddy Holly, who made his way into the golden day of rock ‘n’ roll with hits such as “That’ll Be The Day” and “Peggy Sue.”

5.27-6.25: The Imaginary Invalid THE OLD GLOBE THEATRE 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org A hypochondriac’s attempt to save on his medical bills by marrying off his daughter to a doctor becomes a bitter pill to swallow when he discovers she’s in love with someone else.

5.31-6.25: The Spitfire Grill: A Musical NORTH COAST REPERTORY THEATRE 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Ste. D, Solana Beach 858.481.1055, northcoastrep.org Set in rural Wisconsin, a young woman recently released from prison lands a job at a crusty diner, where she finds her purpose reawakened and her unfortunate past put to rest.

The Test

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

P U L S E MOVIES

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

THE REEL DEAL MAY MOTION PICTURE PREVIEW Â© 2 0 1 6 PA R A M O U N T P I C T U R E S . A L L R I G H T S R E S E R V E D

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

3 GENERATIONS © 2 0 1 5 T H E W E I N S T E I N C O M PA N Y. A L L R I G H T S R E S E R V E D

In this family, change is relative. DRAMA | COMEDY Director: Gaby Dellal Starring: Elle Fanning, Naomi Watts, Susan Sarandon IN THEATRES: MAY 5 When a New York teen decides to transition from female to male, his mostly supportive mother must first get the green light from his biological father, while the kid’s lesbian grandmother struggles to grasp her new grandson’s mindset.

BAYWATCH Get your guard on. ACTION | COMEDY Director: Seth Gordon Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Zac Efron, Priyanka Chopra

EATRE TH

MAY

More than 15 years after its final TV episode aired, the quintessential Californian beach show hits the big screen with more snarkiness, six-packs and slow-motion jogs than ever before.

KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD From nothing comes a king. EATRE FANTASY | DRAMA TH Director: Guy Ritchie Starring: Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, Eric Bana In this retelling of the Arthurian legend, the once and future king grows up on the streets before discovering his sword-pulling prowess and setting out to defeat the usurper who assassinated his father. >>>

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 Obviously. SCI-FI | ACTION Director: James Gunn Starring: Chris Pratt, Vin Diesel, Zoe Saldana IN THEATRES: MAY 5 In their continuing quest to protect the universe from utter annihilation, Marvel’s eclectic league of intergalactic heroes learn the truth about Star Lord’s family tree.

MAY

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

P U L S E MOVIES

2 0 1 6 T W E N T I E T H C E N T U R Y F O X F I L M C O R P O R AT I O N

PARIS CAN WAIT ROMANCE | COMEDY Director: Eleanor Coppola Starring: Diane Lane, Arnaud Viard, Alec Baldwin IN THEATRES: MAY 19 When the wife of a selfabsorbed movie mogul agrees to drive from Cannes to Paris with her husband’s free-spirited French colleague, the trip evolves into an epic epicurean adventure that transforms the woman’s outlook on life and love. >>>

SNATCHED This is the closest they’ve been in years. ACTION | COMEDY Director: Jonathan Levine Starring: Amy Schumer, Goldie Hawn, EATRE TH Ike Barinholtz After an easygoing woman finds herself suddenly single the night before a tropical vacation, she convinces her uptight mom to take the trip with her, and before long, their zany antics leave their lives in danger.

MAY

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

ERIC CARO

5 . 0 4 . 1 7

S T A R T I N G

A T

8 P M

FEATURING MUSIC BY

dj who

Costume Contest

guest bartenders

STAR WARS THEMED COSTUMES ENCOURAGED

TIPS WILL BENEFIT THE BIG JOSH FOUNDATION

4 6 5 0 M I S S I O N B LV D , S A N D I E G O , C A 9 2 1 0 9 | ( 8 5 8 ) 2 7 3 - 3 8 2 5 | T H E D U C K D I V E . C O M

  /THEDUCKDIVE |  @THEDUCKDIVE

P U L S E MOVIES

EVERYTHING, EVERYTHING

MAY

ALIEN: COVENANT

EATRE TH

The path to paradise begins in hell. SCI-FI | THRILLER Director: Ridley Scott | Starring: Katherine Waterston, Michael Fassbender, Danny McBride The crew of a spaceship sent to colonize a distant planet encounters a world that at first seems idyllic, yet turns out to be terrifying, in the latest installment of the Alien franchise.

Risk everything...for love. DRAMA | ROMANCE Director: Stella Meghie Starring: Amandla Stenberg, Nick Robinson IN THEATRES: MAY 19 An obscure medical condition leaves an adolescent girl confined to her home, until she begins texting with a new boy who moves in next door.

THE LOVERS A love so strong it can survive marriage. ROMANCE | COMEDY Director: Azazel Jacobs Starring: Debra Winger, Tracy Letts, Aidan Gillen IN THEATRES: MAY 19 An unfaithful husband and his cheating wife — each on the verge of escaping the relationship — find an unlikely attraction to one another after several years in a loveless marriage.

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE LONG HAUL A wimp will rise. COMEDY | ADVENTURE Director: David Bowers Starring: Alicia Silverstone, Tom Everett Scott, Jason Ian Drucker IN THEATRES: MAY 19 A mischievous kid traveling with his family to Grandma’s 90th birthday party pulls the mother of all pranks when he tricks his dad into driving to a video game convention instead.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES FANTASY | ACTION Directors: Joachim Rønning, Espen Sandberg Starring: Johnny EATRE TH Depp, Orlando Bloom, Javier Bardem In order to defeat his deadliest enemy yet, the world’s most heavily mascaraed pirate must obtain a mystical trident that grants its holder untold power over the ocean.

MAY

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

RAISE THE BAR This spirit & cocktail festival raises a glass to the best distillers and mixologists throughout San Diego and beyond!

sponsored by

Upgrade your ticket to our VIP EXPERIENCE for unlimited pours of spirits and signature cocktails, access to the VIP lounge and patio with gourmet food stations, and all of the entertainment and educational series the festival has to offer.

SATURDAY• JUNE 24•2017 SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR presented by Albertsons | Vons

DISTILLEDSANDIEGO.COM @PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

Because Cinco de Mayo lasts only one day, PACIFIC and Milagro Tequila present

MAY 1 - MAY 31 Photography by Brevin Blach

DRINK RESPONSIBLY, OBVIOUSLY.

SEE ALL THE MARGARITAS AT

margaritamonth.com

#margaritamonth #MARGARITAMONTH

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

#bootleggersd

ORDER, HASHTAG, WIN $3,000!* Who makes San Diego’s best margarita? Don’t take it with a grain of salt. Sip, hashtag and cast your vote.

TRABAJADOR MILAGROSO Milagro Silver Tequila, coconut rum, homemade peach purée, fresh lime juice; salt and pepper rim.

Bars and restaurants across the city are teaming up to celebrate the third annual Margarita Month, offering their signature versions of San Diego’s original craft cocktail. Visit the 34 participating venues showcased on the following pages to taste as many margaritas as you can throughout the month of May, and then join 1,500 people at the Grand Tasting Event (Saturday, June 17, at Horton Grand Hotel) to try all the margaritas in one place, meet and mingle with dozens of San Diego’s top bartenders and savor a smattering of tacos magnificos while rockin’ out to DJ beats and mariachi mayhem.

Bootlegger, 804 Market St., East Village 619.794.2668, bootleggersd.com

#bubspb

SPICY MELON-RITA

Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lime juice, watermelon purée, muddled jalapeños, salted Tajín rim; garnished with a watermelon wedge, jalapeño and lime. *PACIFIC is giving away a $50 Margarita Month gift certificate on Facebook every day in May. Plus, one margarita lover who samples margaritas and posts photos of them to Instagram using #margaritamonth and the venues’ hashtags will win $1,700 in the form of a $50 gift certificate from each of the 34 participating venues. The more hashtags you post, the better your chances of winning.

the b

ea c h

Bub’s at the Beach, 1030 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.270.7269, bubspb.com

MARGARITAMONTH.COM @PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

#cateyeclub

#cervezajacks

BAJA EXPEDITION MARGARITA FOR TWO Milagro Silver Tequila with triple sec, guava purée and fresh lime juice; served in a clam bowl.

Cat Eye Club Cocktail Lounge & Tiki Bar, 370 7th Ave., East Village 619.330.9509, cateyeclubsd.com use logo in white

THE WATERMELON CRAWL

Milagro Silver Tequila, watermelon juice, lime juice, agave nectar, fresh jalapeños, Tajín rim; garnished with a Mexi-candy lollipop.

Cerveza Jack’s, 1165 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.999.0158, cervezajacks.com

#coasterrawinsmargaritamonth

#curadero

GETTING FIGGY WITH IT

COOL AS A CUCUMBER

Coasterra, 880 Harbor Island Dr., Harbor Island 619.814.1300, cohnrestaurants.com/coasterra

Curadero, 1047 5th Ave., #100, Gaslamp 619.515.3003, curadero.com

Lime juice, Licor 43 simple syrup, fig/vanilla-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, cinnamon sugar rim.

Cucumber-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lime juice, vanilla agave, grapefruit bitters.

#MARGARITAMONTH 54

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

#badassmexican

#donchidosd

PRICKLY PEAR LAVENDER MARGARITA Milagro Silver Tequila, lemon juice, prickly pear juice; served with a lavender float.

Don Chido, 527 5th Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.8226, donchidosd.com

MADERO

Milagro Silver Tequila, house-made watermelon cordial, lime, Tajín rim.

El Chingon, 560 5th Ave., Gaslamp 619.501.1919, elchingon.com

#firehousepb

ROSÉRITA

#florentsd

IN BLOOM

Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lemon juice, pressed watermelon juice, topped with bubbly rosé; served up in a champagne flute with a Tajín rim and lemon zest.

Kumquat-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, lime and tangerine juice blend, Florent’s house-made Super Bloom Syrup (hibiscus, jasmine and rose); garnished with Merlot-stained salt and micro bouquet.

Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge, 722 Grand Ave., Pacific Beach 858.274.3100, firehousepb.com

Florent Restaurant & Lounge, 672 5th Ave., Gaslamp 619.595.0123, florentsd.com

MARGARITAMONTH.COM @PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

#galaxytacosd

#hellobetty

PEPINO PICANTE

SUGAR SKULL

Jalapeño-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, muddled cucumber and cilantro; black salt rim.

Milagro Silver Tequila, Cointreau, lime, Crème de Violette, prickly pear; rimmed with black salt.

Galaxy Taco, 2259 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla 858.228.5655, galaxytaco.com

Hello Betty Fish House, 211 Mission Ave., Oceanside 760.722.1008, hellobettyoceanside.com

#indigogrill

#georgeslevel2

PUESTA DEL SOL

JOHNNY BEE GOOD

Thai chili-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, house-made lime sour, agave, shaken; float of hibiscus-infused mezcal; salt rim and lime wheel garnish.

Milagro Silver Tequila, mezcal joven, cardamom-infused local honey, lime, sea salt.

Indigo Grill, 1536 India St., Little Italy 619.234.6802, cohnrestaurants.com/indigogrill

Level 2 - George’s at the Cove, 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.454.4244, georgesatthecove.com/level2

#MARGARITAMONTH 56

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

#obsurflodge

#oceanacoastalkitchen

NIGHT RIDER

PINEAPPLE SWITCH

Milagro Silver Tequila, coconut rum, lime juice, agave nectar, Cointreau, activated charcoal, key lime salt foam.

Milagro Silver Tequila, Cointreau, Pineapple Switch (apple cider vinegar, agave nectar, diced fresh pineapple, fresh-sliced ginger root, muddled); topped with soda water.

OB Surf Lodge, 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ste. 1F, Ocean Beach 619.955.5475, obsurflodge.com

Oceana Coastal Kitchen, 3999 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.539.8635, catamaranresort.com

#parkandrec

#pbshoreclub

LA MALITA

APRI-SCOTT DISICK

Milagro Silver Tequila, lime juice, jalapeĂąo-mint syrup, orange juice, Cointreau.

Silver tequila, apricot liqueur, pistachio orgeat, freshsqueezed lemon and lime, citrus Italian soda.

Park & Rec, 4612 Park Blvd., North Park 619.795.9700, parkandrecsd.com

PB Shore Club, 4343 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.272.7873, pbshoreclub.com

MARGARITAMONTH.COM @PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

#eatpuesto

GARDEN MARGARITA

Milagro Silver Tequila, sweet tomato syrup, lemon juice; garnished with Persian cucumber, fennel bulb, flat-leaf parsley leaf.

#sandbar718

JALA-PIN-YO-BUSINESS

Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, fresh pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, agave, jalapeño slice, splash of citrus soda. SP O RT S BAR & GRILL

Puesto, 789 W. Harbor Dr., Marina District, 619.233.8880 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260, eatpuesto.com

#sea180coastaltavern

LAVENDER MARGARITA

Sandbar Sports Grill, 718 Ventura Pl., Mission Beach 858.488.1274, sandbarsportsgrill.com

#senorgrubbys

FRESA LIMA

Milagro Silver Tequila, lavender syrup, triple sec, muddled lime and mint, topped with sour mix; salted rim.

Milagro Silver Tequila infused with local strawberries from the Carlsbad Strawberry Co., fresh-squeezed lime juice, agave nectar, splash of soda; Tajín rim and garnished with jalapeño and strawberry.

Sea 180, 800 Seacoast Dr., Imperial Beach 619.631.4949, cohnrestaurants.com/sea180

Senor Grubby’s, 377 Carlsbad Village Dr., Carlsbad 760.729.6040, eatgrubbys.com

#MARGARITAMONTH 58

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

#theblindburro

MANGO TAJÍN SKINNY MARGARITA

#deckpic

FRISKY FRESCA

Milagro Silver Tequila, mango purée, lime soda, Tajín rim.

Milagro Silver Tequila, Fresca sparkling citrus soda, fresh lime, salted mason jar rim and grapefruit garnish.

The Blind Burro, 639 J St., East Village 619.795.7880, theblindburro.com

The Deck at Moonshine Flats, 335 6th Ave., East Village 619.255.7625, moonshineflats.com/thedeck

#thelocalpb

#pradobalboapark

SPICY MARG

VERDE MARGARITA

Milagro Silver Tequila, triple sec, fresh-squeezed lime juice, house-made jalapeño simple syrup.

Milagro Silver Tequila, lime, cucumber, cilantro, agave.

The Local PB, 809 Thomas Ave., Pacific Beach 858.263.7475, thelocalpb.com

The Prado, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.557.9441, cohnrestaurants.com/theprado

MARGARITAMONTH.COM @PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

#rabbitholesd

#tinroofsd

NO MANCHES!

FOOL’S GOLD

Milagro Reposado Tequila passion fruit, house-made margarita mix (lemon, lime, guava), agave nectar, triple sec, house-made citrus salt (orange, lemon/lime zest).

Milagro Silver Tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, ginger-infused agave nectar, passion fruit purée.

The Rabbit Hole, 3377 Adams Ave., Normal Heights 619.255.4653, rabbitholesd.com

Tin Roof, 401 G St., Gaslamp 619.230.8606, tinroofsandiego.com

#truenorthtavern

ROSA HERMOSA MARGARITA

Milagro Silver Tequila, Damiana, fresh-pressed lime juice, applewood-smoked pure agave, rose water, chili oil, jalapeños, muddled; cracked sea salt, peppercorn and rose bud rim; garnished with floating rose and jalapeño.

True North Tavern, 3815 30th St., North Park 619.291.3815, truenorthtavern.com

#uptowntavernsd

ADIÓS CRUDA

Mezcal joven, Milagro Silver Tequila, lime juice, agave ranchero syrup; garnished with homemade tortilla chips, micro cilantro and an egg gummy.

Uptown Tavern, 1236 University Ave., Hillcrest 619.241.2710, uptowntavernsd.com

#MARGARITAMONTH 60

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

#urgecommonhouse

#voltairebeachhouse

HUERTA-RITA

NECTAR OF THE GODS

Urge Gastropub and Common House, 255 Redel Rd., San Marcos 760.798.8822, sm.urgegastropub.com

Voltaire Beach House, 4934 Voltaire St., Ocean Beach 619.955.8840, voltairebeachhouse.com

Fresh jalapeño slices, dashes of lemon bitters, Ancho Reyes Chile liqueur, honey syrup, lime juice, Milagro Reposado Tequila.

Milagro Silver Tequila, Cointreau, crème de banana, organic mango purée, fresh lime.

#wonderlandob

#westroottavern

MEXICAN CANDY MARGARITA

Milagro Silver Tequila, Liquid Alchemist tamarindo syrup, lime juice, salted rim; garnished with a lime wheel on a tamarindo straw.

Westroot Tavern, 6025 Village Way, Carmel Valley 619.595.0123, westroot.com

I PINE FOR YOU

Fresh-juiced pineapple, cilantro, serrano chilies, fresh-squeezed lime, orange-infused Milagro Silver Tequila and agave; rimmed with sugar, salt, Tajín and fresh cilantro.

Wonderland Ocean Pub, 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ocean Beach 619.255.3358, wonderlandob.com

MARGARITAMONTH.COM @PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

T ijuan A ¿ ViSiT? Wanna see TJ today? Here’s how...

Photography by Alejandro Tamayo (except where noted). Model: Lily Rosales. Model’s wardrobe, hair and makeup by Charly Ponce. Photographer’s assistant: Howard Lipin. Feature produced by Michele Parente. Stories by Michael Benninger, Jackie Bryant, Laurie Delk, Sandra Dibble, Maya Kroth, Karla Peterson, Peter Rowe, George Varga and Mark Zeigler. San Diego’s neighbor to the south is in the middle of a cultural explosion, churning out everything from design-minded hotels to haute cuisine served out of a truck. Every corner of the city has a new “must-visit” spot, including fine-art expositions, chic tasting rooms, rooftop dining and design stores. Those looking for street tacos, Caesar salads and lucha libre will still find them in spades. But look a little deeper, and it’s easy to see that Tijuana is serving up enough urban sophistication to keep people on both sides of la linea coming back to experience more of its creative soul. — Jackie Bryant

Robin Archives duffle bag, $12,980 MXN/$765 USD, Object, object.mx. 62

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

A R U T L U C ARTES + + COMPRAS ARTS + CULTURE + SHOPPING

From pop-ups to poetry readings, and street festivals to classical music performances, Tijuana thrives with artistic activity as a new generation finds its voice. Feel the creative pulse at these must-see places, which prove that this vibrant border city has become a major Mexican cultural hub. — Sandra Dibble

PASAJE RODRÍGUEZ

OBJECT

This covered passageway along Avenida Revolución, which once housed tourist shops, had long been vacant when artists began moving in several years ago, opening small galleries and painting bright murals on its walls. Today, this bohemian cultural corridor draws people with a range of offerings: a bookstore, a brewery, a vegan restaurant, a cafe and vendors selling everything from herbs to jewelry. — Sandra Dibble

While its main store is across town, Object just opened a pop-up shop in the lobby of OneBunk hotel. Proprietor and curator Veronica Hernandez hand-selects every piece that makes it into the boutique and features only Mexican designers – many of whom are from Baja. Think handcrafted leather goods, unique jewelry, one-of-a-kind clothing, home goods and even mezcal. — Jackie Bryant

On Avenida Revolución between Tercera and Cuarta streets Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. facebook.com/pasajerodrigueztijuana

Coahuila 8206 Int. 207 Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.685.1595, object.mx

CASA DUHAGÓN Architect Mariana Postlewaithe recently opened Casa Duhagón, a full-service décor and design temple. She also designed the items for sale at the store, which include both modern and traditional offerings made with local materials and textiles sourced from Southeast Asia. — Jackie Bryant Avenida Revolución & Calle 8 Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.638.4849, casaduhagon.com

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CLOCKWISE (from top): Pasaje Rodriguez is a cultural and commercial alley in downtown Tijuana; artists have covered the walls with murals at Pasaje Rodriguez; model Lily Rosales at Object (Carla Fernandez “Cobra” dress, $3,800 MXN/$225 USD, Object, object.mx; Caralarga “Penachos” earrings, $825 MXN/$49 USD, Object, object.mx; Carla Fernandez “Molinillo” bracelets, from $390 MXN/$23 USD, Object, object.mx; Nuju chess set, $2,150 MXN/$130 USD, Object, object.mx).

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

ARTES + CULTURA + COMPRAS

CECUT

LA CAJA GALERÍA

At the center of Tijuana’s cultural heart beats CECUT, a federally operated venue for theater, film, dance, music and art. The center’s El Cubo gallery draws top artistic talent from Mexican and beyond and has featured pieces by Colombian painter Botero, Oaxacan painter Rodolfo Morales and Mexicali-born Alejandra Phelts. — Sandra Dibble

Gallerist Arturo Rodriguez’s La Caja Galería, which opened in 2005, is still one of the premier spots to see the best fine art in Baja and from around Mexico. Featured artists include Mexicali-born Jaime Ruis Otis, who makes subtly political pieces from recycled factory waste. — Jackie Bryant

Paseo de los Héroes 9350 Zona Urbana Río, 22010, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.687.9600, cecut.gob.mx

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Callejón de las Moras 118-B Col. 20 de Noviembre, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.686.6791, lacajagaleria.com

Panca at the beach in Playas de Tijuana.

A A n p c

Binational artist Paola VillaseÃ±or (aka Panca) found her creative awakening on the streets of Tijuana. >>> BY LAURIE DELK

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

ARTES + CULTURA + COMPRAS

â&#x20AC;&#x153;TJ GAVE THIS MISFIT A HOME AND 68

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

OPPOSITE: A mural by street artist Panca on the wall of Studio 664. THIS PAGE (right): A mural by Panca on the Bread & Salt building in Barrio Logan. Below: Panca outside her studio.

pAncA

Pulling up stakes from her home in Chula Vista at age 18, Panca moved to Tijuana to experience the gritty reality of a border city. Faced with live-action imagery of migration and deportation, she used art as a visual funnel for her personal experiences. Today, she creates murals, paintings and tattoos that represent the dichotomy and decay of humanity, using vibrant colors and distorted shapes that are simultaneously thought-provoking, inspiring and, at times, controversial. Describing her work as visceral, feminine and symbolic, Panca invites viewers to think beyond the visual and examine their own social and political perceptions. In a conscious break from her well-known subject matter, her most recent project, a stunning 45-foothigh mural at Bread & Salt in Barrio Logan, focuses instead on love and peace in the community. aypanca.com, @aypanca

A VISUAL MIRROR TO MYSELFâ&#x20AC;? @PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

DEPORTES SPORTS

BY MARK ZEIGLER

KICKIN’ IT A guide to Tijuana’s Xolos for soccerfanatic wannabes

Used to be, you would go to a Tijuana Xolos soccer game and drink cheap beer, then wear it home. The club has since launched a campaign discouraging the tradition of hurling your cup (and whatever happened to be in it) skyward anytime the Xolos score. But a trip across the border to Estadio Caliente, which thousands of San Diegans religiously make during the soccer season, is no less fun-soaked. The Basics — Most home games are Friday nights. You can drive directly to Estadio Caliente, about five miles from the San Ysidro border, but that means battling Tijuana’s traffic and crazy drivers. The other option is to park on the U.S. side, walk across and take a taxi (ranging from $6 for locals to $15 for gringos). Tickets — They start at about $15 but vary depending on the opponent. If you want to go first-class, sit in a luxury suite or get a table at the high-end restaurant overlooking the field. If you don’t want to stand and sing the entire game, stay out of the La Masakr3 (“the massacre”) fan club behind one goal. When to go — The 18-team Liga MX, Mexico’s top division of pro soccer, is split into two 17-game seasons, plus playoffs. The Apertura season runs from July through November; the Clausura season from January through May.

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

What to wear — A Xolos jersey is preferable, but anything red and black will fit in. Raincoats no longer necessary. What to eat — Outside the stadium, make new friends and mooch off their parking lot tailgate party (you won’t be disappointed). Inside, don’t miss the carne asada taco stand. What to drink — Beer is typically served as doubles, two bottles poured into a giant cup. It costs half what a single beer does at a Padres game. What’s with the funny-looking dogs? Xolos is short for Xoloitzcuintles, a Mexican hairless dog steeped in mythological history. You’ll see them paraded around during halftime. After the game — If the blackjack tables in the in-stadium sports bar don’t satisfy your gambling itch, the Caliente casino and dog track is right next door. Races usually start right after games, but with greyhounds, not Xoloitzcuintles. For more info, visit xolos.com.mx, the club’s bilingual website. Estadio Caliente Boulevard Agua Caliente, 12027 Hipódromo, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.647.4786

A trio of Tijuana music acts worth a listen At least three bands of note have saluted Tijuana with their names. They include top-selling Mexican narcocorridos group Los Tucanes de Tijuana, the Long Beach punk-pop trio Tijuana Panthers and the sadly defunct Tijuana No! (Grammy Award winner Julieta Venegas is one of its former members). Here are three current Tijuana-bred acts to check out right now.

MÚSICA MUSIC

BY GEORGE VARGA

PABLO DODERO

S O M A R AS S E N AV

, UnO DOSUnO, DOS, TreS!

Veteran San Diego music fans may recall Pablo Dodero as the bassist in the hardcore punk group Mae Machino. In recent years, Dodero has recorded and performed laptop-free ambient electronic music under his own name and as the one-man band Les Temps Barbares. As Late Nite Howl, he specializes in gently intoxicating acoustic ballads and hopes to have a new album done by the end of the year. Under any name, he’s a talent worth investigating. latenitehowl.com, @latenitehowl

MINT FIELD

GRENDA

With performances at Coachella in 2016 and South by Southwest last month to its credit, this 3-year-old group is making international waves with a savvy mix of shoegaze and noise-pop. Previously a trio that has now morphed into a duo, Mint Field features singer-guitarist Estrella Sánchez and drummer Amor Amezcua. Amor’s father, Ramon “Bostich” Amezcua, co-founded the pioneering TJ electronic music band Nortec Collective.

Talent clearly runs in the Amezcua family – Grenda (real name: Andrés Eduardo Amezcua) is the brother of Mint Field’s Amor Amezcua. A twotime UC San Diego Jazz Camp attendee, Grenda creates lush electronic soundscapes that are rich in atmosphere and texture. His processed singing, while uneven, serves as an additional instrumental voice in his sonic landscapes, which are unusually mature for someone still in his teens.

mintfield.bandcamp.com, @mintfieldband

grenda.bandcamp.com

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

S E L A I C O S REDES SOCIAL MEDIA

BY MAYA KROTH PHOTOS BY JACKIE GALLARDO

UnDeR the Influencer Five things Tijuana YouTube star Karla Celis can teach us about life

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

Tijuana-based YouTuber Karla Celis offers beauty and lifestyle tips to 2.5 million subscribers weekly across her three English- and Spanishlanguage channels, on topics ranging from hair-braiding to making caramel apples.

If you don’t know how to do something, check YouTube Karla Celis, 26, got her start five years ago, uploading video tutorials as a hobby. “I’m a very visual person, and if I don’t know how to do something, I would always go to YouTube,” says the business administration grad, who doesn’t shy away from tackling a broad range of topics, from cooking to makeup to Ikea hacks. “People tell you what they want to see.” When the world’s leading apricot scrub manufacturer knocks on your door, answer it Celis knew her hobby was evolving into something bigger when St. Ives approached her with a sponsorship offer. “That commercial was my first big payday, and I said, ‘Wow,’ ” she says. Since then, she’s landed an agent and done campaigns with Target, Macy’s, Nutella and more, pulling down a healthy salary. Don’t listen to the haters “Randomly, you’ll get ugly comments, but it’s part of the job and you have to learn to live with it,” says Celis, who adds the online sniping got worse when she became a mom (to Mia, now 1). “When you make yourself a public person, people are gonna talk, and as an influencer, you need to learn to deal with it. If you let yourself get sad, you’re not gonna survive.” Do what makes you happy “My No. 1 rule is that, in order to live well, you have to be doing the job that’s right for you,” says Celis, who was working in an accounting office before her YouTube channel took off. “Sometimes you do something just to please other people, but if you do what makes you happy, that’s how you’re going to transmit your happiness to others.” Celis’ most popular video? A home remedy for teeth whitening. “I found a recipe on Pinterest from a dentist and I thought, ‘Let’s see if it works,’ ” says Celis, who uploaded her adaptation of the remedy in 2013. “It went viral, which I didn’t expect, and now it has something like 33 million views.” And the two things Celis can’t teach us about life Although Celis is willing to make videos about almost anything, there are some topics even she won’t touch. “You know what they say about religion and politics,” she says. Youtube.com/celiskarla Facebook.com/karlaceliss (1 million likes); Instagram @karlaceliss (600K followers); Twitter @karlaceliss (135K followers)

TOUR IT UP! Getting to and around Tijuana doesn’t require driving across the border. Here are cuatro options that don’t require a driver’s license – just make sure not to leave your passport behind (on either side of the border). — Liz Bowen

FIVE STAR TOURS The Tijuana Up & Down City Tour includes sightseeing, shopping and a visit to a proper street taco stop in the heart of the city. The tour runs from 2-7 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. $65 per person; citytoursofsandiego.com

GRAY LINE TOURS Enjoy a guided tour through the city that includes shopping and stop at a taco shop along Avenida Revolución, an iconic shopping area in the city. $65 per person; grayline.com

UBER You can take an Uber to the border on the U.S. side, and again once you get over the border, but Ubers will not drive across the border in either direction. Once in Tijuana, the Uber app works the same way as in the U.S. (Keep in mind, however, that you may need a data plan for Mexico for this to work without extra costs). In Mexico, rates are calculated in pesos and charged to whatever payment method is saved in your app (this could mean incurring extra credit card charges for the exchange rate), and a booking fee of about $0.08. Uber drivers in Mexico, as in the U.S., are screened for both driving record and criminal history.

TURISTA LIBRE TIJUANA TOUR For a private experience south of the border, book with Turista Libre, which customizes tours depending on customers’ interests. Focus a visit on museums, concerts, sports, Lucha Libre wrestling, breweries or eateries, or select a pre-planned group tour. $110 per day for party of two, $90 per person for groups of 10-14; turistalibre.com

TIJUANA WALKING TOUR Consider options ranging from the popular Brews + Chews & Views (which focuses on beers and tacos) to customizable private tours. From $20 per person for group tours, $100 per person for private tours; tijuanawalkingtour.com

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

+ S O T N E M I AL BEBIDAS+ DAD HOSPITALI FOOD + DRINK + HOSPITALITY

CINE TONALÁ

ONEBUNK

This independent arts space is bringing new life to Avenida Revolución, a street that once formed the heart of a thriving tourist district. Opened last October, the center has an intimate feel and already draws a loyal public that comes for independent movie screenings, stand-up comedy, theater workshops and lectures. The rooftop terrace restaurant features an open kitchen and Thursday nights of jazz. Tijuana is now the third city with a Cine Tonalá, with sister venues in Mexico City and Bogota, Colombia. — Sandra Dibble

Tijuana’s most exciting opening this year, OneBunk (at the former Hotel Lafayette) finally gives border hoppers a chic place to bed down. Opened in April, it’s Tijuana’s first boutique hotel and occupies a prime location on the bustling Avenida Revolución. The décor is minimalistic and industrial; the nine guest rooms feature queen beds and/or as the name suggests, extra-long bunk beds. A guests-only bar, a barber shop and a pop-up boutique energize the lobby. Since the hotel is anything but traditional, it follows that booking would be the same: Reservations can be made only through Airbnb. — Jackie Bryant

Av. Revolución, 1317 Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.688.0118, tj.cinetonala.mx

Av. Revolución, 920 Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. 858.972.BUNK, onebunk.com

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

OPPOSITE PAGE (clockwise, from top left): Third floor restaurant and bar at Cine Tonalá with a view of Avenida Revolución; OneBunk occupies a prime location on the bustling Avenida Revolución; Cine Tonalá in downtown Tijuana; restaurant at Cine Tonalá; a shower with a view at OneBunk; wall art inside OneBunk. THIS PAGE: Model Lily Rosales at OneBunk (Carla Fernandez “Huacano” dress/skirt, $3,450 MXN/$250 USD, Object, object.mx; Carla Fernandez “Molinillo” bracelets, from $390 MXN/$23 USD, Object, object.mx; Be Love Projects handbag, $6,000 MXN/$355 USD, Object, object.mx).

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

ALIMENTOS+ BEBIDAS+ HOSPITALIDAD

STill

SMokiNG Celebrity chef Javier Plascencia turns up the heat south of the border

BY KARLA PETERSON When looking for the source of Tijuana’s sizzle, start with chef Javier Plascencia. He is the spark plug whose daring cooking ignited Tijuana’s culinary and cultural renaissance, and no one would claim otherwise. And that’s not just because their mouths are too full of his signature smoked oyster asada to say anything except, “Mmmm.” Nicknamed “the Mexican George Clooney,” Plascencia is the real star of Baja-Cali cuisine. The son of a Tijuana restaurant family and the product of a cross-border upbringing, Plascencia took a daring gamble on his hometown by opening a fine dining restaurant after years of drug-related violence had transformed Tijuana from a buzzing tourism magnet into a no-visit zone. Plascencia opened the upscale Misión 19 in 2011, and its stunning, sophisticated food turned Tijuana from a ghost town into a destination, while taking the cuisine scene to otherworldly levels. Foodies on both sides of the border took notice, as did the taste-makers at The New York Times and The New Yorker. Fueled by the growing arts scene, booming food-truck culture and rise in hipster tourism that followed, Tijuana got its mojo back. And no one is happier about that than the man who made it happen. “Before, (Avenida) Revolucíon was dead. It was like a zombie street,” Plascencia says on the phone from Mexico City. “And now you walk and you see

people outside having a great time in all of these shops and galleries. I love it.” What gets Plascencia fired up about Tijuana? Lack of zombies is just the beginning. Fans know that Plascencia loves the burn of a Sonora chile and the crunch of crispy chicharones. But exploring the heart of this chef’s cooking requires chopsticks and maybe a nice Chianti. “My first Tijuana food memory is when I discovered fettuccine Alfredo in my parents’ restaurant, and I went crazy. I had to have it every day,” Plascencia says of Giuseppi’s, the family’s Tijuana pizzeria. “We didn’t have many Mexican restaurants in Tijuana, so all of my food memories are Italian and Chinese.” When Plascencia opened his sophisticated Misión 19 in the flagging Zona Rio business district, it was a move that was as audacious as the food that made him famous. Risky, with the potential for epic failure. For the chef in charge, it was also a no-brainer. “I grew up in Tijuana, and I lived there in the 1980s when it was happening, and there were tourists everywhere, and the restaurants were full,” Plascencia says. “I knew that Tijuana had something to offer. People used to come here to drink cheap beer and eat tacos and misbehave. Now they come for the arts and the music and the better quality of beers and wines and restaurants.”

“I GREW UP IN TIJUANA AND I LIVED THERE IN THE 1980S, WHEN IT WAS HAPPENING, AND THERE WERE TOURISTS EVERYWHERE.”

>>> 76

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

OPPOSITE PAGE (from top): Aged beef at Finca Altozano; a waiter prepares the worldfamous Caesar salad at Caesar’s, Tijuana’s longestrunning restaurant; Finca Altozano restaurant; octopus, ready to be grilled, at Finca Altozano; ingredients for the Caesar salad at Caesar’s. THIS PAGE: Javier Plascencia at Finca Altozano.

C O U R T E S Y O F J AV I E R P L A S C E N C I A

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

ALIMENTOS+ BEBIDAS+ HOSPITALIDAD His family has opened pizzerias in Tijuana and a “Mexiterranean” restaurant (Romesco Mexiterranean Bistro) in Bonita. In addition, Plascencia opened the highly publicized Bracero Cocina de Raiz in Little Italy in 2015, only to part ways from that venue and Romesco in January 2017. When the Plascencia family took over Tijuana’s iconic (but fading) Caesar’s restaurant in 2010, they rescued an important piece of culinary history. Not to mention one heck of a salad. “Tijuana doesn’t have much culture and history to it, and the Caesar salad is one of the few things that we had to offer that was authentic and from Tijuana,” Plascencia says. “In Tijuana, people are very proud of it, and we are very proud of it.” If Plascencia could eat only one taco for the rest of his life, it would be the classic carne asada street taco. To capture the spirit of Tijuana and its most celebrated chef in just a few bites, grab one. “The beef needs to be grilled over charcoal, and it needs to be on a really, really good corn tortilla,” Plascencia says. “Then avocado or guacamole and a really good salsa; spicy and hot.”

ABOVE: Misión 19’s taco with chitterlings, cow udder confit and beef tartare.

VERDE Y CREMA Tucked off to the side of Boulevard Agua Caliente, not far from Taco Alley, is Verde y Crema, chef Jair Téllez and his family’s stylish Tijuana outpost. Offerings include farmto-table, organic dishes including a lentil and octopus tostada; and Korean tacos with beef, pickled onions and peanuts encased in a housemade blue corn tortilla. The family also makes its own natural wines. — Jackie Bryant Orizaba 3034 Neidhart, 22020 Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.681.2366, verdeycrema.com

THE ESSENTIAL PLASCENCIA From fine dining to food trucks, a guide to this top chef’s empire:

Misión 19 Misión de San Javier, 10643 (second floor) Zona Urbana Río, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.634.2493, mision19.com Erizo Baja Fish House Av. Sonora, 3808-2 Chapultepec, 22020, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.686.2895, erizobaja.com Finca Altozano Carretera Ensenada-Tecate Km. 83 Ejido El Porvenir, 22750, Ensenada, B.C +52.646.156.8045, fincaaltozano.com

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

LUPE food truck (at Finca Altozano, pictured) Carretera Ensenada-Tecate Km. 83 Ejido El Porvenir, Ensenada B.C. 22750. +52.646.156.8045 Jazamango Restaurante (his latest project) Calle Naranjos, Esquina Jardín, Plaza Principal, Fraccionamiento Las Huertas Tres Santos, Todos Santos, B.C. Sur 23300 +52.612.688.1501, jazamango.com

TELEFONICA GASTRO PARK Cauliflower mole tacos from a food truck at Telefónica Gastro Park

A gastro park? It’s exactly what it sounds like: a vacant-lot-turned-food-truckparadise just off Avenida Revolucíon. Otto’s Grill serves a seared ahi tuna and smoked marlin that makes grown people cry, along with ceviche tostadas. Don Ramen is a gut-busting, umamifilled delight served by Top Chef Mexico contestant Adria Marina. Other favorites include the brunch fare at Azarosa and the meats at Humo. — Jackie Bryant Av. Ocampo 2036 Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.200.2155, Instagram: @telefonicagastropark

L A C O L A Z E V CER LOCAL CERVEZA BY PETER ROWE

FROM TOP: Multipurpose tap handles at Border Psycho brewery; the tap room at Insurgente; brewery/tasting room at Mamut.

Take

from thit e Tap

A MONTHLY BEER FROM TASTE OF (NEAR) HE RE PACIFIC’s San Diego craf t beer column heads south of the bo rder for a moment ito. ¡Salud!

DO ME A FLAVOR A SEIS-PACK OF TIJUANA CERVEZAS CAPPUCCINO STOUT

LA LUPULOSA

(4.5 percent alcohol) — Cerveza Artesanal 5 y 10’s coffee stout tantalizes with first-cup-in-the-morning aromas, light body and smooth coffee and cream flavors. Cerveza Artesanal 5 y 10 (Located at Beer Balcony in Plaza Fiesta) Paseo de los Héroes 9415 Zona Urbana Río, 22010, Tijuana, B.C.

(7.3 percent alcohol) — By making a hop-heavy Americanstyle IPA, Insurgente announced its big-league ambitions. By making this complex, fruity, refreshing IPA, the upstart became a binational legend. Cervecería Insurgente Juan Cordero 10021 Zona Urbana Río, 22010, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.634.1242, cervezainsurgente.com

CHARLIE BROWN (5.5 percent alcohol) — It’s tough to make an exciting brown ale; Norte’s version thrills. Its caramel base is teased by bracing hops. Norte Brewing Co. (Foreign Club parking lot) Calle Cuarta, 720, Fifth floor Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.638.4891, facebook.com/NorteBrewingCo

GÜERRA PRIETA (4.5 percent alcohol) — Yes, Border Psycho made this to entice timid Tecate drinkers. I don’t care. This coffee and vanilla cream ale is an easydrinking winner. Border Psycho Brewery Libertad 1751 Col. Azcona, 22055, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.379.1235, borderpsychobrewery.com

NOX ARCANA (9 percent alcohol) — A silky imperial stout from Fauna, a Mexicali brewery with a popular Tijuana tasting room. Roasted coffee and bittersweet chocolate is submerged in bourbon and vanilla. Cerveza Fauna Tasting Room Paseo de los Héroes 9415, Ste. 3 Zona Urbana Río, 22010, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.163.7467

SEX ON THE PEACH (6.1 percent alcohol) — Mamut’s wild ale brewed with peaches is funky, tart and clean. Savor – the fruit flavors become brighter, fresher after a few sips. Mamut Brewery Co. Calle Tercera, 8161, Second floor Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.685.0137, mamutcerveza.com

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

CERVEZA LOCAL

COMING TO A HEAD EXPLORE TIJUANA’S BRAVE NEW BEER WORLD IN THREE EASY STOPS

Germán Alcázar’s first impression of Norte, a brewery wedged into the fifth floor of a downtown Tijuana parking lot: “What the hell? This won’t work.” Somehow it does. Eighteen months later, Norte (and its brewer, Alcázar) are key players in one of North America’s best beer cities. Unfamiliar with this vibrant scene? Take a three-stop tour:

1. BCB TASTING ROOM Industrial-chic BCB pours 300 beers, including 42 on tap. Order food from the kitchen – the ribeye sandwich, $11.75, is scrumptious – then a brew from Border Psycho, Ramuri or other Baja stars (pints are $2.50 to $4). For almost five years, BCB has been introducing customers to full-flavored ales and lagers. “People weren’t fully sold on the craft beer thing,” says coowner Felipe Vera. “It took a while for it to catch on.”

2. MAMUT A half block south of Revolución on Calle 3, Mamut’s brewery/tasting room occupies a prime second-floor spot. On a warm day, the wide balcony is the perfect spot for on-point Belgian IPA. Back on Revolución, turn right, then right into the alley between Caliente casino and a parking structure. On the garage’s fifth floor, Norte offers awardwinning beers and panoramic views from the city to Otay Mountain. “Tijuana is craft beer heaven,” brewer Alcázar says. Mamut Brewery Co. Calle Tercera, 8161, Second floor Zona Centro, 22000, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.685.0137, mamutcerveza.com

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

BCB Tasting Room Orizaba 3003E5, Fracc. Neidhard Tijuana, B.C. bajacraftbeers.com

3. PLAZA FIESTA The twisting pedestrian corridors here are lined with dozens of tasting rooms, including Donkey Punch, Madueño, Lúdica, Vibra and Insurgente. I stopped at Border Psycho for a potent imperial pale ale, then Beer Balcony for 5 y 10’s creamy Cappuccino Stout. While new to me, the beers tasted familiar. “Whatever catches on in San Diego,” says Rudy Lopez Jr., a 5 y 10 brewer and Beer Balcony partner, “the consumers and brewers in Tijuana follow closely.” Plaza Fiesta Paseo de los Héroes 9415 Zona Urbana Río, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.200.2960, facebook.com/ plazafiestatijuana

ORYX CAPITAL GASTRO PUB Chef Ruffo Ibarra is turning Baja cuisine on its head by blending Mexican and American comfort foods. His gastropub, Oryx Capital, is a local favorite, serving a killer suckling pig, other roasted meats, fresh Baja seafood and an octopus mac ‘n’ cheese that’s worth raving about. It’s also a great spot to get a long list of local craft brews. The speakeasy, Nórtico, is tucked in the back. — Jackie Bryant Plaza Conquistador Boulevard Agua Caliente, 10750 Colonia Aviación, 22020 Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.686.2807, facebook.com/oryxcapital

NÓRTICO Tijuana’s first speakeasy is nestled behind Oryx Capital restaurant – follow the windows and tiles straight to the back. Opened about a year ago, this intimate space is packed every weekend, spurred on by its original cocktails and cult-favorite status in both Tijuana and San Diego. Tipplers can relax in a gilded, midcentury outfitted room decked out with images from 1920s Tijuana, an era when the United States was hobbling through Prohibition and exporting its partiers south of the border. Nórtico just debuted a new cocktail menu, a collaboration between its bartenders and Steve Kurpinsky of La Jolla’s famed George’s at the Cove. Classics are displayed on the left side of the menu, riffs on the right. And since this is Mexico, expect the riffs to include plenty of Ancho Reyes, mezcal and chocolate bitters. — Jackie Bryant Plaza Conquistador Boulevard Agua Caliente, 10750 Colonia Aviación, 22014, Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.611.0589

MEET YOUR MAKER

BREWMASTER Q&A

Meet RUBEN VALENZUELA HERNANDEZ, the 40-year-old co-founder and CEO of Tijuana’s BCB Tasting Room. PACIFIC: What led you to start BCB Tasting Room? RUBEN VALENZUELA HERNANDEZ: In 2010, we started a craft beer distributor, Baja Craft Beers. My brother and I were conscious of the great market for craft beer in California, Colorado and Portland, so we decided to open a place with the biggest possible craft beer selection. When we told friends we would have more than 32 taps, they said we’re crazy. They argued Tijuana wasn’t prepared for that; even in San Diego, few bars had more than 32 taps. But we made it and you see the results now. What did you do before opening BCB? I worked for Televisa; I’m a broadcast engineer. My boss supported me from the beginning, but when we opened the BCB Tasting Room, I had to quit. I miss that job, but beer is our passion. What was your introduction to craft beer? We started drinking craft beer in 1994. My first experience was with imported beer, like Guinness, Hoegaarden, Becks, and then real craft beers like Karl Strauss, Sierra Nevada, Pete’s, et cetera. One of my great memories was in 1998 when Stone launched Arrogant Bastard Ale. I loved it. We traveled to many states in the U.S. and many countries in Europe to taste as many beers as we could. BCB opened almost five years ago. What was the initial response from local beer drinkers? People said they didn’t feel they were in Tijuana. They felt like BCB was in another part of the world. Many people started looking for beer they had tasted

during European travels. Others were amazed by the amount of beer we have in kegs. We weren’t the first place in Tijuana with craft beer, but we were the first to introduce craft beer on tap. Were any beers immediately popular with customers? Many. With the IPAs, it was Ballast Point’s Sculpin and Insurgente’s La Lupulosa. Sours, Duchesse de Bourgogne and Russian River Consecration. Stouts, Young’s Double Chocolate and Great Divide Yeti. What’s popular now? IPAs, double IPAs, New England IPAs and sours. When did BCB begin to brew its own beers? Why did you do that? We started brewing before we opened BCB, starting with lagers because the Mexican market was familiar with this style. We have 12 recipes that we plan to develop when we open our BCB Brewing Co. Craft beer is very popular in Tijuana — you are surrounded by breweries! Is this a fad, or is Mexican craft beer here to stay? I always say craft beer is a culture, not a fad. We try to get people to understand that always. What’s your next adventure? Since 2011, we’ve organized the best craft beer festival in Baja, Expo Cerveza Artesanal. This year, it’s planned for June 2 and 3 at the Plaza Monumental in Playas de Tijuana. For more information about BCB Tasting Room or the Expo Cerveza Artesanal, visit bajacraftbeers.com.

@PACIFICSD | MAYO 2017

MIXÓLOGO MIXOLOGIST

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

Viva lA PROHIBICIÓN

Meet the master mixologist behind TJ’s trailblazing speakeasy When Prohibition passed into law in 1919, millions of Americans looking to wet their whistles had to score booze from shady bootleggers, finagle entry into secretive speakeasies or head to Mexico for a cocktail. Because the Mexican government would never do anything as crazy as criminalize alcohol, there wasn’t a need for a speakeasy south of the border back then. Today, however, inspired by a trend sweeping across American cities, Tijuana finally has one to call its own. Hidden inside the woodpaneled walls of Oryx Capital Gastro Pub lies a not-so-secret speakeasy called Nórtico. Photos of Al Capone and other infamous outlaws hang on the walls of the venue, where head bartender and Tijuana native Fernando Villalobos seems poised to make history. PACIFIC: How do customers gain entry into Nórtico? FERNANDO VILLALOBOS: Nórtico es un lugar que se da a

MAYO 2017 | @PACIFICSD

conocer de boca en boca. No necesitas una invitación formal, solamente saber de él. Para los que ya son mis clientes y los nuevos, yo les recomiendo reservar con tiempo para el fin de semana, esto con la finalidad de no saturar el lugar y ofrecer un servicio de primera. Nórtico is a place known by word-of-mouth. You don’t need a formal invitation, you just need to know about it. For people who already know the place, and for new visitors, I recommend making a reservation ahead of time for the weekend because we don’t want to be over our capacity and we want to offer excellent service. What tips do you have for firsttime guests? No pidas una cerveza, siempre hay un cóctel para cada gusto. Don’t ask for a beer; there’s always a cocktail for everyone to enjoy.

Describe one of your signature drinks. Para Nórtico cree el cóctel Agua Caliente, que es un cóctel inspirado en el Casino Agua Caliente, que fue construido sobre aguas termales en los años 20´s. Este cóctel representa la elegancia e historia que tuvo el casino Agua Caliente. For Nórtico, I created the Agua Caliente cocktail, inspired by the Agua Caliente Casino that was built on top of hot springs in the 1920s. This cocktail represents the elegance and history of the Agua Caliente Casino. Since opening a year ago, how has Nórtico affected the local nightlife scene? Creo que hemos cambiado y educado el paladar de nuestros clientes, que se vuelven cada vez más exigentes. También tratamos de crear la cultura del buen beber, cosa que se perdió hace mucho tiempo en TJ. Por otro lado, utilizamos licores

e insumos de buena calidad, que creo que ha marcado la diferencia a comparación de otros lugares. I believe that we have changed and educated our clients’ palates, making them pickier. We have also tried to create a good drinking culture, something that Tijuana lost a long time ago. On the other hand, we use high-quality liquor and supplies, and I think we have established a difference compared to other places. Find Villalobos behind the bar at Nórtico Monday through Saturday evenings. There’s no secret password for getting into the venue, but a passport is required for getting back into the U.S. ¡Salud! Nórtico (inside Oryx Capital Gastro Pub) Boulevard Agua Caliente, 10750 Interior 84, Calete, 22020 Tijuana, B.C. +52.664.686.2807

TASTE

D I N I N G O U T / A DOS OF SOMETHING NEW

dos of something

M AY

BY PAM KRAGEN

new

TWO FRESH TASTES OF MEXICO IN SAN DIEGO

Ahi poke tostadas from Karinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ceviches & More.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

CRAFT RAMEN + SAKÉ BAR NEW TO D OW N TOW N SA N D I EGO, B ESH O CK O F F ERS A M I X O F TR A D I TI O NA L JA PA N ESE A N D GLO BA L CUI SI N ES, USI N G O N LY F R ES H AN D LO CA L I N GRED I EN TS W I TH A SP L ASH O F SA N D I EG O F L AVO R . COME I N A N ENJOY A VA RI ETY O F RAMEN, D EL ECTA B L E SUS HI R O L LS, LOCA L CRA FT B EERS, CRA FT CO CKTA I LS A N D P REMI UM SA K É , CA R E FU L LY SE L ECTED BY SA N D I EGO ' S O N E A N D O N LY CERTI F I ED SAK É MAST E R .

1288 MARKET STREET SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 6 1 9. 5 0 1 . 9 6 1 2 | B ES H O C K R ESTAU R A N TSA N D I EG O.COM

  /BESHOCKEV  /BESHOCK_EASTVILLAGE

TA ST E DINING OUT

ince there’s no such thing as Mexican-food overload, say bienvenidos to two new Mexican restaurants north of the border. Red O is a national chain from Rick Bayless, the celebrity chef from PBS’ Mexico: One Plate at a Time. Karina’s Ceviches & More is a local family’s latest foray into fast-casual Baja cuisine.

Karina’s Ceviches & More MISSION HILLS

Karina’s, the South Bay restaurant company known for its Baja-inspired cuisine, eyepopping décor and lively wait staff, has expanded into the quick-service market. Karina’s Ceviches & More opened recently in Mission Hills with its new express take-out window serving the company’s signature ceviche (shrimp, cucumber, avocado and green chile sauce), as well as burritos and 14 styles of tacos. Prices start at $3. Karina’s Ceviches & More has opened in a small secondary kitchen at Saffron Thai at 3731B India St., which is part-owned by the Karina’s Mexican Seafood group. Founded in 1981 by the late Arnulfo Contreras and his wife, Maria Ines Curiel (who named the company for their daughter), Karina’s is now in its third generation of family ownership. It operates restaurants in Otay Mesa, Chula Vista and National City, as well as a taco shop in Encinitas. >>> Karina’s Ceviches & More 3731-B India St. Mission Hills, 619.255.5900 karinasseafood.com

THIS PAGE: Karina’s Ceviches & More in Mission Hills. OPPOSITE PAGE (clockwise, from top left): Baja fish tacos; coctel de camarón; surf & turf burrito; a micheluca drink.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

TA ST E DINING OUT

ABOVE: Goat cheese tamales from Red O. LEFT: Celebrity chef Rick Bayless.

Red O LA JOLLA

SERGI ALEXANDER / GETTY IMAGES

For locals whose taste buds tingle over the thought of goat cheese tamales or Maine lobster tail served with tortillas and beans, the wait is over. Or at least, it’s almost over. Two years after the L.A.-based restaurant chain Red O announced that it would open an outlet in San Diego, the high-end Mexican restaurant company is set to open its fourth location this month at 4340 La Jolla Village Drive. Billed as “world class” for its upscale Mexican Riviera décor, the Red O chain was launched in West Hollywood in 2010. Each venue’s menu is unique, with the La Jolla location — across the street from the Westfield UTC mall — developed by corporate chef Marc Johnson, with consultation and signature mole sauces from Red O culinary director (and famed TV chef) Rick Bayless. The seasonal menu includes items such as duck taquitos, short rib enchiladas, yellowtail aguachile and the $16 signature Red O margarita (mixed with orange liqueur and house-made lemonade). >>>

Red O 4340 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla redorestaurant.com

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

TA ST E DINING OUT

Red O LA JOLLA

CLOCKWISE (from top left): Ahi tuna tartare, chili relleno and a Tablita for Two (a grilled prime tomahawk chop and Maine lobster tail).

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

GROOVE

SOUND DECISIONS / CONCERT CALENDAR

chris stapleton

5.18

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

MAY

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

@ MATTRESS FIRM AMPHITHEATER LIVENATION.COM The multiple Grammy-winning country musician and songwriter is headed out on his 2017 “All American Road Show.” He also made an appearance on the new live compilation album “Outlaw: Celebrating the Music of Waylon Jennings.” >>>

G R O OV E

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

SOUND DECISIONS

SOUNDS L I K E A.

P L A N

5.2: Kiefer Sutherland

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com From 2002 to 2009, the “24” and “Lost Boys” actor ran the record label Ironworks. Last year, with an assist from Warner Bros. Records, Sutherland released his own debut, “Down in a Hole,” on the label. B.

5.3: Leela James

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The soul and R&B siren released her sixth studio album in March, “Did It For Love.” The show also features British singer Daley, who was discovered by Damon Albarn of Blur and Gorillaz. C.

MAY CONCERT CALENDAR

5.4: Dweezil Zappa

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com After years of performing his father’s music as Zappa Plays Zappa, the Grammy Award-winning scion returns for this special anniversary run titled, “50 Years of Frank.” C. D.

5.5: Soulfly

Oddisee

5.5

@ MUSIC BOX, MUSICBOXSD.COM

Washington, D.C., rapper and beatmaker Oddisee released a pair of albums last year, “The Odd Tape” and “Alwasta.” In February, he followed them with a new 12-track collection called “The Iceberg.” Oliver St. Louis joins him on this “Beneath the Surface” tour. >>>

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

RODRIGO FREDES

@ Brick By Brick, brickbybrick.com Ex-Sepultura frontman Max Cavalera returns with the thrash-metal band he started in 1997. Soulfly released their 10th studio album, “Archangel,” in 2015. The band also features Cavalera’s son, Zyon, on drums.

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

Slide into home base after the game!

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

FB:COLDBEERSANDCHEESEBURGERSSANDIEGO | TWITTER@CBCBSANDIEGO | IG:COLDBEERSANDCHEESEBURGERSCA

LOLA DEMURE

BURLESQUE & VARIETY SHOW MAY 6

ADRIAN URIBE & OMAR CHAPARRO MAY 12 7:30 & 10PM SHOWS

CATFISH & THE BOTTLEMEN

BARNS COURTNEY W/ FOXTRAX MAY 10

AARON TVEIT MAY 13

DREAMSTATE PRESENTS

PAUL VAN DYK

W/ JULY TALK MAY 23

W/ SOLARSTONE MAY 26

MARSHA AMBROSIUS & ERIC BENÉT

YNGWIE MALMSTEEN

THE REVOLUTION

SAL VULCANO

MAY 27

JUNE 22

MAY 28

W/ ROY WOOD JR., THEO VON JULY 20

1055 F I F T H AV E N U E S A N D I E G O, C A 92101 | FOR INFO & TIX 619.299.2583 Shows are all ages and standing room only unless otherwise noted. Show dates and times are subject to change. Tickets subject to all applicable facility fees and service charges.

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

5.7

bob Schneider

@ BELLY UP, BELLYUP.COM After releasing a trio of EPs in 2015, the Austin, Texas-based singer and songwriter gathered 41 live tracks and packaged it as “Best of Frunk 2015.” Two of the songs included were recorded at the Belly Up. Recent San Diego Music Award winners Trouble in the Wind open the show.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

MAY CONCERT CALENDAR A.

5.5: Mariachi El Bronx

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com Los Angeles garage punks The Bronx switched gears in 2009 and began to infuse their music with traditional Mexican sounds. After three studio albums, they released “Live Cuts: Mariachi El Bronx Live at Teragram Ballroom and the Independent” last year. B.

5.6: Face to Face

@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com The long-running punk outfit returned with their ninth studio album, “Protection,” last year. The band is still fronted by founder/singer Trever Keith, who released the solo album “Melancholics Anonymous” in 2008. C.

5.6: Diet Cig

@ Ché Café Collective, thechecafe.blogspot.com New York pop-punk duo Diet Cig (Alex Luciano and Noah Bowman) released their debut album, “Swear I’m Good at This,” last month. D.

5.7: The Flaming Lips

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Wayne Coyne and the gang return to San Diego for this all-ages show. The Grammy-winning experimental psych rockers from Oklahoma released their 14th studio album, “Oczy Mlody,” in January. E.

5.9: At the Drive-In

@ SOMA, somasandiego.com Fresh from their collaboration as Crystal Fairies, the recently reunited At the Drive-In brings Le Butcherettes out on the road with them. The former also released a new album this month, “In•ter a•li•a,” their first studio album in 17 years.

5.12: Timber Timbre

@ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com The Canadian freak-folk four-piece returns to San Diego to promote their April-released sixth studio album, “Sincerely, Future Pollution.” E. G.

5.12: 933 Summer Kickoff

@ Mattress Firm Amphitheater, livenation.com Can’t wait for everyone’s favorite stretch of lazy, fun-filled months? Let Channel 93.3 help usher it in with an eclectic lineup that features David Guetta, DNCE, Backstreet Boys (pictured), Halsey, Hailee Steinfeld and more. H.

5.14: Conor Oberst

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Nebraska-born singer/songwriter once known as Bright Eyes released his eighth solo studio album, “Salutations,” in March. The hour-plus, 17-track opus came on the heels of Oberst’s “Ruminations” album, released in October 2016. I.

5.15: Brother Ali

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com This month, the Minneapolis rapper released his sixth full-length studio album, “All the Beauty In This Whole Life.” The 15-track collection was entirely produced by Ant Davis of fellow Minnesota crew Atmosphere. Best part: This is a $5 show! J.

5.16: E-40

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Veteran Bay Area rapper, actor and entrepreneur E-40 heads up the “On One Tour” which follows his 2016 releases “The D-Boy Diary: Book 1 and 2” – his 23rd and 24th studio album releases. >>>

J. P H O T O S B Y: F ) . C A R O L I N E D E S I L E T S ; G ) . C A S E Y C U R R Y / I N V I S I O N / A P ; H ) . A M E L I E R A O U L ; I ) . C O L L E E N E V E R S M A N

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

5.18: Matthew Logan Vasquez A.

@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com The former San Diegan and Delta Spirit frontman is on tour in support of his third solo release, April’s “Does What He Wants.”

MAY CONCERT CALENDAR

5.18: DIIV

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Zachary Cole Smith’s Brooklyn indie fourpiece released their sophomore album, “Is the Is Are,” last year. It contains the track “Blue Boredom (Sky’s Song),” featuring singer and actress Sky Ferreira.

5.19: SWMRS

@ The Irenic, theirenic.com Before it was rereleased a few months later through Fueled By Ramen, SWMRS’ 2016 third studio album, “Drive North,” came out on their own label, Uncool Records. The Oakland-based pop-punk quartet is fronted by brothers Cole and Max Becker.

5.19: Thundercat

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com After winning a Grammy with Kendrick Lamar in 2016, Thundercat (aka L.A.-based singer, bassist and producer Stephen Bruner) returned in February with his third full-length studio album, “Drunk.”

5.21: Ann Wilson of Heart E.

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com It’s an evening with half of the legendary rock duo as she heads out on a new 20-date solo tour. The new run comes on the heels of Heart’s 2016 release “Beautiful Broken” and a long stretch of shows with Joan Jett and Cheap Trick.

Chris brown

@ VIEJAS ARENA, VIEJASARENA.COM

The controversial singer and actor hits the road on his “THE PARTY” tour, which also features 50 Cent, Fabolous, O.T. Genasis and Kap G. Brown’s new album, “Heartbreak on a Full Moon,” is due to be released soon. >>>

P H O T O S B Y: C . A L I C E B A X L E Y.

MAY 2017 | @PACIFICSD

G R O OV E SOUND DECISIONS

5.22

brYan adams

@ CAL COAST CREDIT UNION OPEN AIR THEATRE, AS.SDSU.EDU/CALCOAST The Grammy Award-winning Canadian singer is one of the best-selling musical artists of all time, with sales in excess of 100 million records. He last released a studio album in 2015, titled “Get Up.”

5.23

rodriguez

MAY CONCERT CALENDAR

@ HUMPHREYS, HUMPHREYSCONCERTS.COM After the 2012 Academy Award-winning documentary Searching For Sugar Man brought him back into the spotlight, veteran singer Sixto Rodriguez has regularly hit the road to perform and re-released his two studio albums – 1970’s “Cold Fact” and 1971’s “Coming From Reality.”

melissa etheridge 5.24

@ HUMPHREYS, HUMPHREYSCONCERTS.COM The 55-year-old multiple Grammy-winning singer and activist (who has her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame) released her latest album, “Memphis Rock and Soul,” in 2016.

5.24

brian wilson

@ SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE, SANDIEGOTHEATRES.ORG

The legendary Beach Boys singer has been hitting the road in recent years, but the name of this tour (“Brian Wilson presents Pet Sounds: The Final Performances”) adds an extra incentive to fans who want to make sure they don’t miss the icon playing one of the greatest albums of all time.

modest mouse 5.30

@ CAL COAST CREDIT UNION OPEN AIR THEATRE, AS.SDSU.EDU/CALCOAST Isaac Brock continues to lead this nearly 25-year-old indie rock outfit with original drummer Jeremiah Green still in tow as well. The band last released an album, “Strangers to Ourselves,” in 2015.

PHOTOS: RODRIGUEZ BY ROBERTO SERRA - IGUANA PRESS; M E L I S S A E T H E R I D G E B Y R I C H F U R Y / I N V I S I O N / A P.

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G R O OV E

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

SPIN CYCLE

& M D E Y MA

A E K A T

S P I N ES C N A M R O F R E P J D

DASH 5.19 BERLIN

@ OMNIA, OMNIANIGHTCLUB.COM

The Dutch trance DJ and producer released his fourth full-length album, “We Are (Part 2)” in March. It follows part one of his 2014 album with the same name and features guests Waka Flocka Flame, Christina Novelli, Jonny Rose and more.

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5.4: MASHD N KUTCHER

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Australian DJ duo released their latest single, “Pretend” (feat. Park Avenue) on Universal Music in March. It continues their trend of collaborating with random people when they enlisted vocalist/ producer Park Avenue after seeing an online video of him singing in his bedroom.

5.5: KILL THE NOISE

5.6: ALPHA 9

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Alpha 9 is another moniker of Russian producer and DJ Arty (aka Artyom Stolyarov). His Marchreleased collaboration with Koven, “Only Good Mistake,” is Stolyarov’s first track as Alpha 9 in seven years.

5.6: GTA

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Miami DJ duo GTA (Matthew Van Toth and Julio Mejia) released the remixes to their 2016 self-titled debut in January. It featured new takes from Yellow Claw, Giraffage, Party Favor, Getter and more.

5.8: THE CHAINSMOKERS

@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com With a recent appearance on “Saturday Night Live” and their debut full-length “Memories…Do Not Open” topping charts across the globe, Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall head into San Diego red hot. F.

5.11: CHEAT CODES

5.12: COM TRUISE / CLARK

5.27: STAFFORD BROTHERS

@ Parq, parqsd.com The Australian-born, L.A.-based DJ siblings have released singles featuring Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Christina Milian, T.I. and others over the years. Their latest, “Coventry Carol,” doesn’t feature a guest and was released at the end of last year. Q.

5.27: ZEDS DEAD

@ Quartyard, quartyardsd.com You can always see the Canadian electro house duo of DC and Hooks at Valley View Casino Center’s big blowout later that night, but why not catch them in the sunlight while drinking a craft brew? R.

5.27: BREATHE CAROLINA

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The Denver-based electro-trio released their latest EPs, “Sleepless” and “Oh So Hard,” last year, and has followed them with a pair of singles, including “Can’t Take It” with Bassjackers, so far in 2017. S.

5.27-28: LED

@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com The two-night, 18+, Memorial Day weekend extravaganza features headliners Zeds Dead and Tchami (pictured) with support from DVBBS, Destructo, Louis The Child and many more.

5.20: BENNY BENASSI

5.26: PAUL VAN DYK

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The legendary German DJ (real name Matthias Paul) won a Grammy Award in 2008 for his work on the film “The Dark Knight.” The 20-plus-year veteran’s last full-length album, “The Politics of Dancing 3,” was released in 2015.

@ Belly Up, bellyup.com Com Truise (aka New Jersey-based electronic music producer/performer Seth Haley; pictured) teams with Clark (British electronic producer/ performer Chris Clark) for a co-headlining tour. Roland Tings joins as support.

5.19: NOIR

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com When Danish house DJ and label head René Kristensen isn’t releasing hits, creating them or producing popular podcasts like his “Noir Recommends” series, he heads out on tour.

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The globe-hopping Grammy-winning Italian DJ and record producer teamed up with Lush and Simon for new single, “We Light Forever Up” (feat. Frederick).

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The L.A.-based DJ trio of Kevin Ford, Matthew Russell and Trevor Dahl teamed with Demi Lovato on the recent hit single “No Promises.” G.

5.18: FKJ

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Paris-based producer Vincent Fenton (aka FKJ) released his self-titled (“French Kiwi Juice”) debut in March. Fellow Parisians Cézaire and Dabeull join him for support. L.

5.18: GHASTLY

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Following hits like “Miami Connection” with Jauz, and “Crank It” with Mija and Lil Jon, the Arizonaborn, California-based DJ Ghastly released the single “The Spider’s Symphony” in February. K.

5.26: HARDWELL

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Dutch electro-house DJ Robbert van de Corput (aka Hardwell) released his debut album, “United We Are,” in 2015. Although a specific date hasn’t been set, the two-time winner of DJ Mag’s “World’s No. 1 DJ” has released a few singles from his forthcoming sophomore effort.

5.13: CASHMERE CAT

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Although Norwegian DJ/producer Magnus Høiberg has released a few tracks from his upcoming Interscope Records debut, “9,” the album featuring The Weeknd, 2 Chainz, Selena Gomez and others won’t drop until September.

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com New York DJ Jake Stanczak (aka Kill The Noise) heads out on his 2017 “Killuminati Spring Tour.” In recent months he’s remixed tracks from Zomboy, Getter and AWOLNATION. C.

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Texas-based DJ/producer duo of David Reed and Chad Cisneros partnered with The Chainsmokers on 2015’s “Until You Were Gone.” The pair released the singles “Strangers” and “Hey Mamama” in recent months. I.

5.12: TRITONAL

5.28: OLIVER HELDENS

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The 22-year-old Dutch DJ, who also has performed recently as HI-LO, released a new single, “I Don’t Wanna Go Home” – as well three new remixes of the track – earlier this year.

P H O T O S B Y: E ) . R O R Y K R A M E R ; N ) . C H R I S T O P H KO S T L I N ; T). BART JANSSEN

@PACIFICSD | MAY 2017

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l ov E

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

B L I N D DAT E

PHOTOS BY ALEJANDRO TAMAYO MATCHMAKING BY JESSICA PELLIGRA

C R O S S I N G assie and Zach met for the first time less than an hour ago in the Epic Limo that’s headed south to the Mexico border. Although these two blinddaters knew nothing about each other before stepping into the car, they’ve agreed to spend the night together in a foreign country. Police are blocking a section of Interstate 5 because of a man’s threat to jump from an overpass, so traffic is intense. During the delay, let’s review the couple’s pre-date interviews. PACIFIC: Why are you going on a blind date in PACIFIC magazine? CASSIE: Because my friend asked if I wanted to go to Mexico, and I don’t usually work on Thursdays. ZACK: I am Jewish and really enjoy free stuff. What do you do for a living? CASSIE: I go to grad school full time, working on my doctorate in acupuncture and oriental

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medicine. I also bartend at Florent Restaurant & Lounge and serve at Draft Republic. ZACK: Save small animals from burning buildings. What do you do for fun? CASSIE: Go to the beach, work out, hang with friends. ZACK: Read poetry to blind puppies. What are you best at? CASSIE: Making people smile. ZACK: Destroying my friends’ relationships. What do you suck at? CASSIE: Small talk. ZACK: Pulling out. What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise? CASSIE: I usually go for skinny white guys,

someone with a great sense of humor who is intelligent and respectful. ZACK: Five hundred thousand or more fake Instagram followers with a bunch of

T H E Photoshopped pictures who is actively selling skinny tea while using 20 or more hashtags – ideally, #blessed #fitpro #lit #model – and an email in her bio. What do you like least about yourself? CASSIE: I don’t really dislike anything about myself. ZACK: How big my dick is.

L I N E

good move. ZACK: Has more than one cat, wears highwaisted shorts or owns Snapchat glasses. Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less? CASSIE: Who knows? ZACK: Depends what strip club we end up at.

Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. CASSIE: Solid eight. ZACK: 6.9.

What’s the most important thing in the world? CASSIE: Happiness. ZACK: Memes.

Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality. CASSIE: Ten. ZACK: Boring.

When their limo finally takes the last U.S. exit before Mexico and stops at the southernmost drop-off point, Cassie and Zach jump out and walk across the border, where a driver named Chuy is waiting with a van to take them to downtown Tijuana and beyond.

What’s your biggest fear? CASSIE: Being in a crowd of people with umbrellas. ZACK: Getting killed by my friends’ crazy exgirlfriends, or a crying baby next to me on a flight. What traits might your date exhibit that would be deal-breakers? CASSIE: Throwing up on the table wouldn’t be a

AN INTERNATIONAL BLIND-DATE ADVENTURE

First stop: La Encomienda (The Entrustment), a high-end restaurant where dinner is served with a side of live music. As Cassie and Zach peruse the menu, a tableside bartender arrives with tequila tasters and the makings for craft cocktails. >>>

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LTHE OBLINDVDATE E CONTINUES O NAT LASTROCAS H E he daters get acquainted as course after course emerges from the kitchen at La Encomienda. Nearly two hours and countless house specialties later, they jump back into the van and head south to Las Rocas Resort & Spa in Rosarito, drinking tequila and Pacificos along the way. With a breathtaking cliff-top location overlooking the Pacific, Las Rocas is the ideal place for romance. Cassie and Zach were offered separate rooms at the resort, but they elected to share one instead. During their overnight, they will enjoy the complete VIP treatment, beginning with a couple’s massage. Before the rubdowns begin, the couple is split for mid-date debriefings. PACIFIC: How’s it going so far? CASSIE: We made it! It was really fun. We had a

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R O C K S

good time. ZACK: Going great so far.

ZACK: No, not really. She’s an awesome, cool chick, I guess, just not necessarily my type.

How was the limo ride to the border? CASSIE: I was glad we both dressed pretty casual and ended up having a bunch of mutual friends. Oh, and it wasn’t a limo, more of an SUV. ZACK: Long, thanks to the guy trying to jump off a 20-foot overpass on the 5 during rush hour. Don’t be that guy.

What do you think of the way your date is dressed? CASSIE: It was funny. He got in the limo and was like, “Oh, thank God, you didn’t dress up.” And I was like, “Alright, perfect.” ZACK: I was excited because I didn’t have to dress up myself. >>>

What were your first impressions of your date? CASSIE: He’s my type – skinny white-boy. He is good-looking; nice bod. ZACK: She is a cool, down-to-earth chick. Is this the type of person you’d normally date? CASSIE: I haven’t really dated anyone in about three years, so I don’t know what all that’s about, but we’re getting along and having a good time.

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How was your experience at La Encomienda? CASSIE: The restaurant was awesome. The cocktails were great; they brought a drink cart with juices and bottle-service to the table. Kinda weird having cameras at the table, but I guess we signed up for that. ZACK: It was great; really cool vibe and staff. They had a dope musician and really good food. What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far? CASSIE: He was very down-to-earth and being himself. It was cool. We actually have a lot of friends in common, so it was surprising that we didn’t already know each other. ZACK: Her easygoing personality. What’s the least attractive thing? CASSIE: I don’t think he really did anything unattractive. ZACK: Smokes cigarettes. Rate your date on a scale from 1 to 10 for looks.

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CASSIE: He’s a solid eight. ZACK: I’ll give her an eight. And for personality? CASSIE: Personality, he is a 10. ZACK: Eight. What’s your date’s most attractive quality? CASSIE: He was super easy to talk to; it came naturally. ZACK: Personality. What’s your date’s least attractive quality? CASSIE: He was on his phone for a bit, which I understand, but come on. ZACK: Her cigarettes. Do you want to kiss your date right now? CASSIE: Maybe? ZACK: Maybe, if she stopped smoking cigarettes. Does your date want to kiss you? CASSIE: I am not sure at this very moment. ZACK: Hopefully? >>>

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A L O T T A C O L A D A ONE TEQUILA, TWO TEQUILA, THREE TEQUILA… DOOR fter the mid-date break, Cassie and Zach head into the massage room, reappearing an hour later in swimwear. When they step into the hot tub, the magazine crew finally leaves these gringos alone to enjoy the rest of their evening away from the camera. A couple of days later, we call to find out what we missed.

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How was your stay at Las Rocas? CASSIE: The resort was really cute and had a great view. The owner was super friendly and accommodating. ZACK: Amazing, all the staff was fun. It’s a cool little getaway. Describe the resort. CASSIE: Really great view. Staff was super friendly. ZACK: Get a massage, trust me. Trini is the best.

Was there a kiss or romantic exchange? CASSIE: Yep. ZACK: No, but she did fart in her sleep. Fill in the blanks. I wish my date had a bigger “blank” and a smaller “blank.” CASSIE: I feel like this is setting me up to say something rude. There were no size issues. ZACK: Boobs and lungs. >>>

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What’s the funniest thing that happened during the date? CASSIE: I thought it was pretty funny when I smashed my face into a sliding glass door and spilled my piña colada everywhere. ZACK: She ran into the sliding glass door and spilled piña colada all over herself.

ZACK: Probably not. I didn’t get her number.

What was the best part of the date? CASSIE: The massage at the resort. ZACK: The massage. Trini worked her magic.

What could have made this date better? CASSIE: If you flew us in a helicopter down the coast to Mexico. ZACK: Private jet to the venue.

What was the worst part? CASSIE: Driving to the border and having to use the gross bathroom at Jack in the Box. ZACK: The drive home, because I was the only sober one.

AFTERMATCH: Cassie said there was a kiss; Zach said she smelled like smoke… and other unmentionable fumes. She’s into acupuncture and getting a Ph.D.; he’s into not pulling out – unless it’s puppies from flaming buildings. The only spark between these two, it seems, was coming from Cassie’s lighter. This was not a match made in heaven, or even one hecho en Mexico. Better luck manaña.

Will there be a second date? CASSIE: Probably not. The only contact we’ve had since is him liking a picture of my butt on my Facebook.

What’s one thing your date really should know before going on another date? CASSIE: I think you should take your next date to Mexico again. He’s good at drinking expensive tequila. ZACK: Smoking is bad.

THANK YOU to (and promotional consideration provided by): Epic Limo, 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com; La Encomienda, +52.664.634.3545, laencomienda.com.mx/tijuana; Las Rocas Resort & Spa, +52.661.614.9850, lasrocas.com/en.

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