Rising Star
Actor Alex Wolff will be among those honored at S.D. International Film Festival, Oct. 10-14
Trendy
A look at the growing popularity of food halls
October 2018
PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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Stage performances, concerts that rock, funny guys and gals, a Barrio pub crawl and cool events.
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EDITOR’S NOTE
Working on a Buzz It’s 9 a.m. and I’m already a little buzzed. Sorry to disappoint, but I’m not talking about the alcohol kind of buzz, but rather the black gold kind. And, because I’m not a huge coffee drinker, when I do indulge in a cuppa Joe, I admittedly get pretty buzzed. According to the stack of cups in our office, coffee is “motivation in a mug.” This is apparent in my world, because, even with the daily hustle and bustle at local coffee shops, I seem to find enough stillness there to get some (motivating) words out for my monthly editor’s letters.
done so lately (IMHO). Recommended buzz: Lavender Latte or nitro cold brew. 6101 Lake Murray Blvd., La Mesa, brewcoffeespot.com Holsem Coffee: This is the shop I can credit with starting me down the path of cold-brew obsession, which, as infrequently as I drink it, is usually my coffee order of choice. The Nutella and banana bread cold brews are dessert in a cup worth having to burn some extra calories for. 2911 University Ave., North Park, holsemcoffee.com
Volume #12 | Issue #10 | October 2018
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIGITAL DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR MANAGING EDITOR DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY COPY EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
My usual go-to spot is Public Square (8278 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa, publicsquare. coffee). I found out about this shop from a colleague who told me they serve flights of butter there. Yes, you read that correctly: FLIGHTS of BUTTER! I’m serious. The small shop on the main drag of downtown La Mesa has a list of six to eight different kinds of butters, some of them on seasonal rotation, which you can pair with freshbaked scones or waffles. Make sure to try the maple-cayenne and add to your order an ice-cold cup of cold brew. And, while ‘tis the season for everyone and their mom to fall all over themselves for pumpkin spice lattes, here are some shops and other mugs of motivation that have inspired me and are worthy of getting your buzz on. S3 Coffee Bar: The Rainbow Latte there is sure to brighten up even the gloomiest of days (I should know, I went there on a rare rainy San Diego day) or help you kick off Mondays on the right foot. The honey rose latte is also sip worthy. 6171 Mission Gorge Rd., #102, Grantville, s3coffeebar.com Brew Coffee Spot: Yes, another coffee shop in La Mesa, which is the town I call home these days and highly worth exploring if you haven’t
Better Buzz Coffee: The somewhat new Hillcrest location is where I’m getting my buzz on today. I mean they totally encourage it here with a sign on the entryway floor that says, “It’s time to get buzzed.” Who am I to go against that kind of a welcome?! And with an offering of the “Best Drink Ever” (yes, that’s an actual menu item of Americano coffee mixed with vanilla cream magic) how could my writing session not go well? And not only is this place exceptionally buzzworthy, it’s also extremely Instagram worthy. Signs like “coffee first” and “morning drug” adorn the walls, and the company’s signature hexagonal honeycomb designs can be found throughout the brightly lit space. 801 University Ave., Hillcrest, betterbuzzcoffee.com So tell me, where do you find motivation to get your buzz on? Sincerely,
Leslie Hackett leslie@pacificsandiego.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES MULTIMEDIA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Leslie Hackett Kenny Boyer Jennifer Ianni John McCutchen Monica Hodes-Smail Michael Benninger, Lisa Deaderick, Beth Demmon, James Hebert, Scott McDonald, Peter Rowe
K.C. Aldred, David Brooks, Chad Caddy, Isiah Jones
Paul Ingegneri Lisa Marsolais, Laura J. Schwartz, Alyson Tietze Greg Johannsen
Reach America’s finest readers via print, web, social, email, street team and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! PACIFIC is a media property owned by The San Diego Union-Tribune.
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
B R A DL E Y S C HWE I T
It’s a Gift
Gala About Town
The Gaslamp Quarter Association is taking to the streets to celebrate the best of the best at this year’s Gaslamp Gala. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the exclusive awards party under the stars, and a prize package filled with Gaslamp gift cards, parking vouchers and a hotel stay! And don’t forget to weigh in on who will win the inaugural People’s Choice awards, presented by PACIFIC, at pacificsandiego.com/gaslamp-gala.
Actually, it’s a bunch of prizes
Now You See It…
The funniest and naughtiest magic show around, The Naked Magicians, hits San Diego all the way from Down Under, with an R-rated performance that’s sure to blow your mind. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the show that proves “good magicians don’t need sleeves and great magicians don’t need pants.”
Lights, Camera, Action!
Hollywood heads south at the San Diego International Film Festival, featuring more than 115 movies, glamorous parties and filmmaker panels. Enter for a chance to win a pair of single-day festival passes to check out the film lineup.
Oct. 26 at the Balboa Theatre.
Register to win at pacificsandiego.com/contests
Imagine your next event in Liberty Station. 28 acres of incredible, historic surroundings at the former Naval Training Center San Diego. Our unique location encompasses the beautifully restored Naval Library called Building 177 as well as lush landscapes, ideal for public and private events.
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
Oct. 10-14 at several venues throughout San Diego.
A Scary Good Time
Another epic Halloween party goes down this year at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s 2018: A Halloween Odyssey, with three floors, five rooms and 15+ DJs spinning frightful fun. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to this Gaslamp indoor/outdoor Halloween party. Oct. 27 at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego.
JAS ON DE A L BA
Register to win tickets to these October events and more at pacificsandiego.com/ contests. Life’s cool in San Diego. Here’s proof:
Oct. 4 at the Gaslamp Quarter Hilton Hotel.
W NG O N SI A E L
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CONTENTS OCTOBER 2018
CURRENTS 22 Ten.Eighteen Events calendar 38 Laughing Stock October stand-up comedy shows PULSE 40 Art Beat October gallery + exhibition openings 46 Curtain Calls October performing arts preview 48 The Reel Deal October motion picture preview
ON THE COVER: Rising star Alex Wolff photographed by Udo Spreitzenbarth. ON THIS PAGE: Mary Kate Morrissey as Elphaba from the play Wicked. Photo by Joan Marcus. For more performing arts performances, see page 46.
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
50 Spotted Where locals were seen in September TASTE 52 Deck the Food Halls Growing trend makes its way to San Diego with announcement of more opening in the next year 62 Full Plate October food and drink events 64 Take it From the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here
GROOVE 66 Sounds Like a Plan October concert calendar 84 Take a Spin Upcoming EDM + DJ performances LOVE 88 Being Supportive A spankin’ new San Diegan and a native Californian bare their soles during acro-yoga
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OCEAN BEACH MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 52 # of homes sold: 21 (Aug) Highest price: $3,850,000 Lowest price: $289,000 Average price: $1,148,857
Moving into the fall season and in the 4th quarter, the market is remaining strong however an increasing number of days on the market is occurring throughout the county and average market times are on the rise. Interest rates are still steady and more inventory is coming on so we should see a pickup of additional sales through September and October. Niche neighborhoods still have multiple offers and short market times so the overall market feel is still on the rise and trending upwards.
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CURRENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING RIGHT NOW BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
10.12-14 FASHION WEEK SAN DIEGO Lux Art Institute, Encinitas fashionweeksd.com California’s largest publicly accessible fashion event once again celebrates the clothing industry by highlighting local entrepreneurs and their apparel. PHOTO BY LUIS GONZALEZ
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
CURRENTS | EVENTS
10.6
10.6-7
21ST ANNUAL PACIFIC BEACH FEST
MAKER FAIRE
Oceanfront Walk, Pacific Beach, pacificbeachfest.org P.B.’s free, full-day beach festival is back with an oceanfront 5K and a fish taco contest, plus tons of merchants and live, local music all day long.
Balboa Park, sandiego.makerfaire.com Meet more than 200 local makers at this gathering of fascinating folks showcasing their incredible inventions, creations and craftsmanship inside several of Balboa Park’s most-loved museums.
PHOTO BY EARNIE GRAFTON
PHOTO BY MICHAEL K FAIRBANKS
10.6-7 LA JOLLA ART AND WINE FESTIVAL Girard Ave., La Jolla, ljawf.com Visitors at this two-day celebration of art and wine will enjoy a wine and beer garden, a silent auction, a family art center, live music, food and entertainment, all in the heart of La Jolla village. PHOTO BY ELLIOT HELLER PICTURES
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H
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DOWNTOWN MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 352 # of homes sold: 62 (Aug) Highest price: $3,750,000 Lowest price: $250,000 Average home price: $570,000
There is a 32% increase in inventory from this year to last year which indicates we are moving from a strong sellers’ market more towards a balanced market in which buyers and sellers find themselves with equal advantages. In the lower priced properties, we’re still seeing good sales activity while the same time properties in the $1.75m and above range are seeing much less activity than this time last year so the best opportunities for buyers in the market appear to be in the more expensive properties.
Chad@DanneckerandAssociates.com | @welcometosandiego.com #welcometosandiego | @WelcometoSD 875 G St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101
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CURRENTS | EVENTS
17TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
(INSET & BELOW) Night of the Stars
Can You Ever Forgive Me?
C.M.PEDERSEN
Venues throughout San Diego, sdfilmfest.com The region’s premier film festival and one of the leading stops on the independent cinema circuit is back with more than 115 movies, several glamorous parties and intimate events with up-and-coming filmmakers. Here are some must-see events during the 5-day festival: Opening Night Film Premiere and After Party: On Oct. 10, watch as festival VIPs and stars stroll down the red carpet at the Balboa Theatre before heading in to see a screening of Can You Ever Forgive Me? featuring Melissa McCarthy. After the movie it’s time to party at Little Italy’s Music Box with tunes from the Stilettos and DJ Marc Easy, or test your luck at the Jamul Casino Gaming Tables. Night of the Stars Tribute: Presented by trade publication VARIETY, dine in style while accomplished members of the industry are recognized and honored with awards, including the Auteur Award being given to Alex Wolff (see next page), on Oct. 11 at the Pendry hotel. An after party follows at Oxford Social Club. Social Impact Panel: Industry leaders gather on the morning of Oct. 12 for a 90-minute panel to discuss social justice, the refugee crisis and how filmmakers are telling these stories. Culinary Cinema: Raise a glass with a welcome champagne cocktail on Oct. 14 before heading into the theater for a cuisine-themed movie followed by bites from some of San Diego’s top culinary talents.
Z E M I N A Z A FE RA K I S
10.10-14
TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 10!
On receiving the SDIFF’s Auteur Award “It’s really exciting and encouraging to get like a stamp of ‘keep going.’ That’s just the coolest thing in the world — to feel like I actually have a body of work already is surraeal and exhilarating.” On working so closely with his family “I think it was a great thing for our family to all be working toward a certain goal. I think it really brings us together and that all families should bond together to do creative projects because it can be really amazing for the family dynamic.” On preparing for his demanding role in Hereditary “I just f**king winged it. No, just kidding. The preparation process was really just listening to the music that was going to end up being in the movie. … It really gave me the vibe of the movie, and I felt that the whole thing was just one big adrenaline rush, almost like one gasp.” On the last movie he saw that blew him away “You Were Never Really Here is one of the best movies I’ve seen in a long time. That movie is absolutely f**king astounding.”
XAVIER GUERRA
HUNGRY LIKE THE WOLFF
On his other passions “I am a huge fan of peanut butter, and I think that’s important for everyone to know.” The WolffPack (Alex and brother Nat share social media accounts.)
Twitter: 362K followers Instagram: 1.2M followers Facebook: 234K likes For the full interview with Wolff, go to pacificsandiego.com. REID CHAVIS
One of Hollywood’s hottest young stars to be honored at the San Diego International Film Festival BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
At just 20 years old, actor Alex Wolff has achieved more than most people in the movie industry twice his age. After beginning his career in 2005 alongside his brother, Nat, in Nickelodeon’s The Naked Brothers Band, Wolff has since starred in more than a dozen motion pictures, including 2016’s Patriots Day, 2017’s Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and this year’s horrifying family drama, Hereditary. Wolff’s latest flick, Stella’s Last Weekend has him reuniting with his brother on-screen in a movie directed by their mother, actress and filmmaker, Polly Draper. The film, which is set for release in November, will be screened at this year’s San Diego International Film Festival, which runs Oct. 10-14. The young Wolff is also about to release a movie he not only stars in, but which he wrote and directed as well. The Cat and the Moon is currently in post-production with a release date sometime in 2019. PACIFIC recently talked with Wolff who will be honored during the SDIFF with the coveted Auteur Award recognizing his artistic influence.
Hereditary
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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CURRENTS | EVENTS
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: WCKD VILLAGE BY BRADLEY SCHWEIT; PB PUB CRAWL BY BRIAN FONTAINE; HALLOWEEN PUB CRAWL BY ANDREW MINNER; HALLO-WINE AND SPIRITS BY JARED GASE; HALLOWEEN AT THE STATION BY DAVE SICCARDI; FIESTA DE REYES DIA DE LOS MUERTOS BY JARED GASE
HALLOWEEN EVENTS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: WCKD Village; PB Pub Crawl; Halloween Pub Crawl; Day of the Dead in North Park; Hallo-Wine and Spirits at Hotel del Coronado; Halloween at the Station; Nightmare on Normal St.; Fiesta de Reyes Dia de Los Muertos
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
Through 10.31 HAUNTED HOTEL 424 Market St., Gaslamp hauntedhotel.com Hop on the Hellevator and venture into the depths of horror as the latest inn-carnation of San Diego’s long-running haunted house dares you to endure a shuddering mutant mineshaft, a sickening swamp and an atrocious zombie-infested alley.
THROUGH 10.31 HAUNTED TRAIL Balboa Park, downtown hauntedtrail.net The faint of heart shouldn’t attempt this mile-long amusement that starts with a spine-tingling traipse through a 3,500-square-foot maze, then continues past Balboa Park’s contorted trees while putting you face-to-face with some of cinema’s most insidious icons.
THROUGH 10.31 SCREAM ZONE Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar thescreamzone.com The county’s largest haunted experience returns with three hair-raising attractions: the House of Horror, the Haunted Hayride and the KarnEvil freak show, all complemented by food trucks, fun photo opportunities and a ghastly Spirit Lounge bar.
10.4-31 BACKWOODS BY SAVAGE HOUSE HAUNTED ATTRACTION Westfield Mission Valley savageproductions.org Scare yourself silly at San Diego’s only themed haunted attraction, where brave souls will dodge cannibalistic hillbillies at the Gray family farmhouse.
10.23 HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN CARVING CONTEST The Pearl Hotel, Point Loma thepearlsd.com Celebrate Halloween in retro style at this carving contest, where contestants compete for prizes like a stay at The Pearl Hotel while watching a Halloween-themed movie projected on the hotel’s poolside big screen.
crawl that includes access to more than 20 of the city’s hottest parties, nearly all of which include complimentary shots and devilish drink specials.
10.27 2018: A HALLOWEEN ODYSSEY
TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 10!
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, Gaslamp, rmdhalloween.com The Hard Rock Hotel San Diego throws another epic Halloween party with 2018: A Halloween Odyssey, featuring three floors, five rooms and 15+ DJs, including headliner Oliver Heldens.
10.27 EIGHTH ANNUAL HALLO-WINE & SPIRITS Hotel del Coronado, Coronado hoteldel.com Coronado’s famously haunted hotel welcomes you to wear a killer costume for this adults-only affair full of drinking, dancing and decadent desserts, all abiding by this year’s theme: Legendary Screams from the Silver Screen.
10.27 NIGHTMARE ON NORMAL STREET Normal St., Hillcrest fabuloushillcrest.com Hillcrest’s annual happenin’ Halloween street party is back, with outdoor dance floors, an American Idol-style costume competition, local DJs and food trucks.
10.27 WCKD VILLAGE Throughout East Village the Gaslamp Quarter wckdvillage.com The evolution of the long-standing Monster Bash, this new event spans six blocks, boasts four concert stages, and includes a glitter bar, gypsy lounges and drink specials at more than two dozen of downtown’s hottest venues.
10.27 SECOND ANNUAL DAY OF THE DEAD FESTIVAL NORTH PARK Ray Street, North Park dayofthedeadfestivalnorthpark.com With face painting, tequila tasting and sugar skull decorating, this second-year event also offers guests an opportunity to learn more about this vibrant Mexican holiday in remembrance of those no longer living.
10.28-29 & 11.1-2 FIESTA DE REYES DIA DE LOS MUERTOS Fiesta de Reyes, Old Town Historic State Park fiestadereyes.com Remember lost loved ones in a lively way over the course of two weekends that include candlelight processions, professional face painters and several colorful Catrinas — female skeletons dressed in hats — scattered around Old Town.
10.27 HALLOWEEN YACHT PARTY Spirit of San Diego, San Diego Harbor annualyachtparties.com Don your costume and board this decked out three-hour Halloween cruise offering tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, two floors of dancing and cash prizes for best costumes.
10.26 HALLOWEEN PUB CRAWL Throughout downtown clubcrawlsandiego.com/halloween Knock back free shots and specialty cocktails at more than 10 select venues during this costumed pub crawl followed by several epic after-parties.
SD Monster Bash
10.26, 27 & 31 ZOMBIE CRAWL Throughout the Gaslamp Quarter and East Village sandiegozombiecrawl.com Shamble throughout the streets of downtown alongside thousands of other undead drinkers during this creepy bar
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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CURRENTS | EVENTS
10.13 MARINE CORPS BOOTCAMP CHALLENGE Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Midway District bootcampchallenge.com Climb cargo nets, leap over logs and scale a 6-foot wall while racing to complete the same 3-mile, 50-obstacle course that transforms recruits into Marines.
10.13 26TH ANNUAL CITY BALLET GALA Hotel del Coronado, Coronado, cityballet.org San Diego’s own Mario Lopez will emcee this celebration of the City Ballet’s award-winning performances and inspirational outreach programs, which benefit more than 10,000 local youths each year. PHOTO BY ANNA SCIPIONE
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
10.13 WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES MLK Promenade, Gaslamp Quarter, ywcasandiego.org Strap on a pair of heels — or slip into whatever kind of kicks you want — then strut your stuff for a full mile at this fundraising walk that aims to draw attention to the seriousness of domestic violence.
SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL OCT. 10-14, 2018 5 Days | 100 + Films | Parties | Celebrities | Awards
WED 10/10 OPENING NIGHT FILM PREMIERE
THURS 10/11 NIGHT OF THE STARS TRIBUTE
CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME?
HONORING TOPHER GRACE
Starring Melissa McCarthy
And other stars
SUN 10/14 CULINARY CINEMA CONSTRUCTING ALBERT Film & Food Tastings
ON SALE NOW 619.818.2221 SDFILMFEST.COM #sdfilmfest
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
CURRENTS | EVENTS
10.14 SIXTH ANNUAL BIKE FOR BOOBS The Wine Pub, Shelter Island, thewinepubsd.com Grab your helmet, hop on your bike and choose either a 20-mile road ride or a leisurely trip around Shelter Island during this afternoon rendezvous that raises funds to fight breast cancer.
10.18-21
10.14
EXTREME SAILING SERIES
INSTALLATION DANCES AT LIBERTY STATION
Harbor Island, extremesailingseries.com The stadium-racing sailing circuit returns to the Big Bay during this high-energy, spectator-centric event that attracts some of the world’s best sailors and puts attendees right in the middle of the action. PHOTO BY LLOYD IMAGES
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
Liberty Station Arts District, Point Loma, libertystation.com Witness six site-specific dances inspired by Liberty Station’s alluring art installations during one of three guided walking tours hosted by Jean Isaacs of San Diego Dance Theater fame.
on the airwaves Every month PACIFIC teams up with Facebook group Eating and Drinking in San Diego to bring podcast listeners the latest and greatest on San Diego’s food and drink scenes. You can find Dish It Up and Kiss My Glass on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month on your preferred podcasting platform.
Here’s what to keep your eyes and ears open for in October.
Outstanding oceanfront dining in the heart of Del Mar. Since 1968.
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Dish It Up on Oct. 8 with guest Accursio Lota of Solare
Kiss My Glass on Oct. 22 with guest Laura Johnson of You & Yours Distilling Co.
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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CURRENTS | EVENTS
10.20
10.20-21
SCALLYWAG!
CORONADO ART WALK
Waterfront Park, Little Italy, scallywagfest.com Rancid, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Less than Jake are just three of the acts performing at this daylong festival focused on killer tunes and incredible food and offering unlimited tastings of more than 150 craft brews.
Coronado Ferry Landing, Coronado, westcoastartists.com Hundreds of contemporary craftsmen and craftswomen join other gifted artisans to present one-of-a-kind creations during two days where it’s all about original art.
SPORTS SAN DIEGO GULLS HOME GAMES 10.12 VS TUCSON ROADRUNNERS 10.19 VS MILWAUKEE ADMIRALS 10.20 VS BAKERSFIELD CONDORS 10.26 VS STOCKTON HEAT 10.27 VS TUCSON ROADRUNNERS
WAIT, THERE’S MORE! FIND FOOD + DRINK EVENTS ON PAGE 62.
PHOTO BY HAYNE PALMOUR IV
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
Shake it like a polaroid picture.... ALL DAY, ALL NIGHT
BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER & FULL BAR
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CURRENTS | EVENTS
10.26 NAKED MAGICIANS
TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 10!
Balboa Theatre, broadwaysd.com Two unabashed illusionists from Australia bare it all during this uproarious, R-rated magic show that includes lots of coarse language and leaves little to the imagination.
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CURRENTS
Laughing Stock October stand-up roundup BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
10.11-13
DANA CARVEY
@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
I stopped doing
standup on New Year’s Eve years ago. It’s hard to be funny while dodging projectile vomit. — Dana Carvey on Twitter PHOTO BY ETHAN MILLER/GETTY IMAGES
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10.4-6 JAY MOHR
“
@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
I don’t know if you’ve ever been to England, but as soon as they find out you’re from America, they hate you. ... They just think they’re more sophisticated than we are. They’re so pissed at us. You know what it is? They’re mad because they lost the Revolutionary War. And they should be, ’cause there was only like nine of us. We don’t know how we won that war. Nine stoned, hemped-out farmers with homemade muskets kickin’ the crap out of the greatest armada ever assembled. It’s not our fault they fought in the snow with bright red uniforms on. — Jay Mohr on My Turn
”
PHOTO BY BRIAN LAWDERMILK/GETTY IMAGES
10.13 LILY TOMLIN
“
@ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org
People are always saying to me, ‘Lily, for gosh sakes, when are you going to settle down and get married?’ And I say, ‘Look, I could’ve had any gal — or in my case, guy — I please. Unfortunately, I didn’t please of any them.’
”
— Lily Tomlin in Sold Out PHOTO BY JUSTIN SULLIVAN/GETTY IMAGES
10.18-20 DAN SODER
“
@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
10.11 MONTY FRANKLIN @ La Jolla Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla
“
I am from Australia. I’ve said some stupid stuff in your country. I really have. This is the worst thing I’ve said. I said this the other night. I was out doing a gig; I was the only white person there, OK? The whole audience was black, every comedian on was black. Now in Australia, we don’t have a lot of black people. I think they’re cool, and I was trying to act cool with these guys backstage, OK? They were talking about smoking weed; I didn’t know how to get involved in the conversation, and I said this, I can’t believe I said this, all right? One of the guys was sitting there rolling a joint, and he looked up at me, and he goes, ‘Hey bro, do you burn?’ And I seriously said, ‘Uh, no. I wear sunscreen.’ — Monty Franklin at the Gotham Comedy Club
”
When I was like, f**kin’ 23, and I moved to New York, I’d f****n’ go outside drunk, rip a joint, like ‘F**k society and its rules, yeah!’ Now, I just wait till late at night and I put on sweatpants, and then I just get worried, like ‘Am I ever going to pay off these loans? Why did I major in journalism?’
”
— Dan Soder on Live at The APT PHOTO BY NEILSON BARNARD/GETTY IMAGES
10.25-27 FINESSE MITCHELL @ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
“
Thank god I met this woman,
because fellas, ladies got a way of teaching you things about yourself you didn’t even know. Like, I didn’t know I was a vegetarian. I swear to god, I swear to god. Thank god I met this woman, or I would’ve still been enjoying meat, I swear. Who wants to go ‘Mmm, mmm, mmm’ after a meal, when you can go, “Um, that’s healthy.’
”
— Finesse Mitchell at Just for Laughs PHOTO BY MIKE WINDLE/GETTY IMAGES
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
39
PULSE ARTS | COOLTURE ART BEAT BY LISA DEADERICK
10.27
Dia De Los Muertos Skull Art Show
La Bodega Gallery 2196 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan 619.255.7036, labodegagallery.com Decorated ceramic skulls in celebration of the Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones and their active afterlives.
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OCTOBER 2018 @PACIFICSD
OPENING NIGHT PARTY
Friday, Oct. 19 | 6–9 p.m. | Ticket Required
WEEKEND HOURS
FIRST LOOK FREE FRIDAY
Friday, Oct. 19 | 1 - 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission Saturday, Oct. 20 | 12–8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 21 | 12–5 p.m.
LOCATION DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS Wyland Center 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014
Parking: $13 per day, per car
W W W . A R T - S A N D I E G O . C O M @PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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PULSE
Art Beat
October gallery + exhibit openings
10.1-31 SAN DIEGO WATERCOLOR SOCIETY’S 38TH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION San Diego Watercolor Society 2825 Dewey Rd., Bldg. 202, Liberty Station 619.876.4550, sdws.org Award-winning artist John Salminen juries this exhibition of swirling shapes and colors by some of the best water-media artists from around the world.
BY LISA DEADERICK
Safe with You by Ana Laura Salazar
10.1-31 MASTERS OF POP ART Martin Lawrence Galleries 1111 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.1122, martinlawrence.com Journey through the world of pop — pop art, that is — with works by some of the greats of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Takashi Murakami and Mark Kostabi. Kaikai Kiki News no2 by Takashi Murakami
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Artwork by June Rubin
10.5-11.6 TO DO — A MENDING PROJECT 1805 Gallery, 1805 Columbia St., Little Italy 619.888.8288, 1805gallery.com This collaborative artist residency responds to the country’s increasing political, social and economic tensions with workshops in which members of the community join the artists in acts of repair, like knitting holes in sweaters, fixing flat tires or participating in simple activities together.
10.5 PHANTASMORGIA June Rubin Studio/Gallery, 2690 Historic Decatur Rd., #214, Barracks 19, Liberty Station, 858.229.4571, junerubin.com In mixed-media pieces featuring everything from an unfinished crossword puzzle to leaves and a peacock feather, artist June Rubin memorializes the life of her artist mother in one piece and daydreams about a Roman visitor in another.
10.6 A DIRTY FILTHY SHOW La Bodega Gallery 2196 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan 619.255.7036, labodegagallery.com Sexy, erotic, X-rated adult-only art. Artwork by Randt Stoner @PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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PULSE | ART BEAT
10.13-14 LATIN AMERICAN ART FAIR BREAD & SALT
10.8-11.7 FALL 2018 FACULTY EXHIBITION
A Dry Branch Floats in a Blue Sky by Lisa Hutton
San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery 7250 Mesa College Dr., D-101, Clairemont Mesa 619.388.2829, sdmesa. edu/art-gallery The faculty at San Diego Mesa College showcase their artistic creations, reflecting topics that are designed to engage students and viewers from outside the visual art community.
1955 Julian Ave. (and along Julian Ave.), Logan Heights 619.752.6118, latinamericanartfairsd.com More than 100 artists from Mexico, and Central and South America, will display their creative works over two days of celebrating the art and culture of Latin America with artwork, food, beer, wine, music and performances.
Artwork by Linda Indalecio
10.13-14 ART GLASS GUILD’S FALL SHOW & SALE Spanish Village Art Center, 1770 Village Pl., Balboa Park 619.233.9050, spanishvillageart.com Get a look at demonstrations featuring torch work or glass cutting at this annual show of art glass created by local artists, along with unique pieces, live music and a chance to create your own piece of mosaic art to take home.
10.13-12.1 GABE LEONARD: RUST, DUST, AND LUST Distinction Gallery 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido 760.707.2770, distinctionart.com Train robberies, street shoot-outs and scenes from bars, brothels and saloons depicted in oils, acrylic-enhanced giclees and paper prints by artist Gabe Leonard in this solo show featuring his work. Rise Up by Gabe Leonard
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10.18-21 ART SAN DIEGO Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar 408.718.3730, art-sandiego.com It’s the 10th anniversary of this contemporary fine art show, with respected exhibitions, in-depth art labs and works from more than 500 established and emerging artists.
10.20-2.24.2019 TIM SHAW: BEYOND REASON San Diego Museum of Art, 1420 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.232.7931, sdmart.org Tim Shaw, a sculptor from Northern Ireland, addresses issues like global terrorism, freedom of speech and artificial intelligence by creating installations, mixedmedia sculptures and related drawings and maquettes.
10.30 TIM BURTON FAN ART SHOW
THROUGH 10.29 HENRY DILTZ: LISTENING THROUGH THE LENS Museum of Making Music 5790 Armada Dr., Carlsbad 760.438.5996, museumofmakingmusic.org A look at some of the photographic essays, and the stories behind them, by famed photographer Henry Diltz, who’s worked with The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and others.
Thumbprint Gallery 920 Kline St., Ste. 104, La Jolla 858.354.6294, thumbprint gallerysd.com Fans of Tim Burton create various forms of art, including a live painting session, in tribute to the creativity and vision of the famed filmmaker.
PHOTO BY SONNY PORTACIO
Hatter
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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PULSE | CURTAIN CALLS
centers on Isaac, a veteran of the war in Afghanistan who returns to find massive upheaval on the home front.
Curtain Calls October performing BY JAMES HEBERT
10.2-7 BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL
10.5-7 20TH ANNUAL TROLLEY DANCES
San Diego Dance Theatre Various locations around San Diego, 619.225.1803, sandiegodancetheater.org The mobile, everarts unpredictable dance event rolls back into town for its 20th annual collection of performance pieces set at stops along the San Diego Trolley. (That’s one way to transport an audience.)
Broadway/San Diego San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619/858/760.570.1100, broadwaysd.org The hit Broadway musical about the life of the groundbreaking pop singer-songwriter returns to town on tour, with such indelible King compositions as You’ve Got a Friend and I Feel the Earth Move.
10.5-11.18 PERSUASION Lamb’s Players Theatre 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado 619.437.6000, lambsplayers.org Lamb’s stages the California premiere of this new musical take on Jane Austen’s final work — a story of romance and second chances in early 19thcentury England.
10.3-28 HIR
10.5 ROB LOWE: STORIES I ONLY TELL MY FRIENDS, LIVE!
Cygnet Theatre 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town 619.337.1525, cygnettheatre.com The playwright, performance artist and MacArthur fellow Taylor Mac’s black comedy
Balboa Theatre 868 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter 619/760/858.570.1100, broadwaysd.com The ’80s Brat Pack heartthrob
Wicked
turned West Wing and Parks and Recreation star hits town in a one-man show that looks at memorable chapters from his life and career — including a certain moment with Snow White at the Oscars.
10.11-11.4 ACTUALLY San Diego Repertory Theatre Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.544.1000, sdrep.org This college-set piece by the prolific and highly regarded Anna Ziegler, whose The Wanderers had its world premiere at the Old Globe earlier this year, touches on topics highly relevant to the #MeToo movement.
10.14-11.11 FADE Moxie Theatre 6663 El Cajon Blvd., Rolando District 858.598.7620, moxietheatre.com The women-centered Moxie puts up the local premiere of this piece by the rising Latinx playwright Tanya Saracho about the surprises that ensue when a TV writer forms a bond with a Hollywood custodian.
10.17-11.17 HOLMES AND WATSON North Coast Rep 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr.,
Solana Beach 858.481.1055, northcoastrep.org Jeffrey Hatcher’s play — not to be confused with the upcoming film comedy starring Will Ferrell — centers on puzzling events involving the illustrious (and possibly deceased) Sherlock Holmes himself.
10.20-28 THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO San Diego Opera San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.533.7000, sdopera.org The opera launches its 201819 season with Mozart’s enduring comic opera about romantic intrigue and madcap misbehavior on the eve of a wedding. Nicholas Brownlee portrays the lovably scheming title character.
10.31-11.25
Wicked
Broadway/San Diego San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619/858/760.570.1100, broadwaysd.org You don’t have to be knocked in the noggin by a falling farmhouse to notice that Wicked remains a pretty big deal. The Broadway hit, a musical sequel to the Wizard of Oz saga, returns on tour for a nearly monthlong run. PHOTO BY JUSTIN SULLIVAN/ GETTY IMAGES
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PULSE | THE REEL DEAL
A STAR IS BORN Drama | Romance Directed by: Bradley Cooper Starring: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga and Andrew Dice Clay In theaters 10.5 When an established musician falls for an insecure songwriter and convinces her to overcome her fears, he experiences his own struggles as his muse’s career begins to eclipse his own.
The Reel Deal October motion picture preview BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
VENOM Embrace your inner anti-hero. Fantasy | Sci-Fi Directed by: Ruben Fleisher Starring: Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams and Riz Ahmed In theaters 10.5 After a rogue reporter investigates a secretive corporation, an alien parasite invades his body — and his mind — granting him terrifying new abilities he must learn to control in order to survive.
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GOOSEBUMPS 2: HAUNTED HALLOWEEN Halloween Comes to Life. Adventure | Comedy Directed by: Ari Sandel Starring: Madison Iseman, Jeremy Ray Taylor and Wendi McLendon-Covey In theaters 10.12 A pair of young boys encounter a series of sinister characters after the stories from R.L. Stine’s sprawling series of books begin emerging into reality.
FIRST MAN The most dangerous mission in history. Drama | History Directed by: Damien Chazelle Starring: Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy and Kyle Chandler In theaters 10.12 This biopic of Neil Armstrong offers an inside look at the life and times of the astronaut who took small steps in order to help mankind make giant leaps.
BAD TIMES AT THE EL ROYALE All roads lead here. Thriller | Mystery Directed by: Drew Goddard Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Dakota Johnson and Jon Hamm In theaters 10.12 Seven eccentric strangers, each with a shadowy past, descend upon a decrepit hotel in Lake Tahoe for one last chance to redeem themselves.
THE OATH America needs you to sign. Comedy | Thriller Directed by: Ike Barinholtz Starring: Ike Barinholtz, Tiffany Haddish and Nora Dunn In theaters 10.12 When an agitated news addict and his even-keeled wife learn that the government is goading citizens into signing a statement of support for the president, the couple clashes with their family members during the one time of year when personal politics are usually off limits.
THE HATE U GIVE Find your voice. Change the world. Drama | Thriller Directed by: George Tillman Jr. Starring: Amandla Stenberg, KJ Apa and Sabrina Carpenter In theaters 10.19 After a bright young girl witnesses the fatal shooting of her beloved best friend, her community urges her to speak up about the unjustified police officer who pulled the trigger.
CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME? Her greatest work will be her biggest crime. Drama | Thriller Directed by: Marielle Heller Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Richard E. Grant and Jane Curtin In theaters 10.19 An out-of-work celebrity biographer resorts to a life of fraud and forgery when her publishers lose interest in printing her own writing.
SERENITY
mid90s
HALLOWEEN
Truth lies beneath the surface. Drama | Thriller Directed by: Stephen Knight Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway and Jason Clarke In theaters 10.19 When the ex-wife of a tour boat captain tracks down her one-time hubby and asks him to kill the man she’s currently married to, the former lover finds himself thrust back into a relationship he once struggled to escape.
Comedy | Drama Directed by: Jonah Hill Starring: Sunny Suljic, Lucas Hedges and Katherine Waterston In theaters 10.19 A misfit kid dealing with family drama falls in with a crowd of misbehaving skateboarders in this coming-of-age story set in L.A. during the last decade of last century.
Slasher | Thriller Directed by: David Gordon Green Starring: Jamie Lee Curtis, David Gordon Green and Danny McBride In theaters 10.19 Forty years after terrorizing his small town, Michael Meyers is back on the streets, and his sister is the only one who’s prepared for his homecoming.
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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Spotted: San Diego
KAABOO DEL MAR The fourth annual KAABOO Del Mar brought performers like Foo Fighters, Wiz Khalifa and Imagine Dragons together with art exhibits, cooking demonstrations and comedy shows at the Del Mar Fairgrounds from Sept. 14-16. PHOTO BY CHAD CADDY
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(TOP, LEFT TO RIGHT): JARED GASE, K.C. ALFRED, ISIAH JONES; LARGE MIDDLE PHOTO: K.C. ALFRED; (BOTTOM, LEFT TO RIGHT): K.C. ALFRED, K.C. ALFRED, K.C. ALFRED
See more photos of San Diego’s best events at pacificsandiego.com. @PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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TASTE EAT | DRINK | PUFF DINING OUT
BY BETH DEMMON
Deck the Food Halls
Growing trend makes its way to San Diego with announcement of four more opening in the next year No food hall is the same, but they share an objective: to offer a variety of diverse culinary experiences under one roof. Over the past decade, food halls have quietly proliferated across the American landscape and are estimated to skyrocket in number in the next few years. Cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago and New York have historically been hubs for these types of establishments — with Eataly considered by many to be the original catalyst for the modern-day trend — but San Diego is catching up quickly. 52
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Little Italy Food Hall
Relax responsibly®. Corona Extra® Beer. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL
TASTE | DINING
Belcampo Meat Co at Grand Central Market
La Macelleria at Eataly
ABOVE: Tacos Tumbras a Tomas at Grand Central Market BELOW: The Oyster Gourmet at Grand Central Market
ood halls aren’t stereotypical mall food courts immortalized by ’80s movies like Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Gone are the fluorescent lights and soulless chain restaurants hawking greasy grub designed to be inhaled from plastic trays. Rather, food halls have evolved into candy stores for grown-up gourmands, allowing visitors to choose between indulging in an authentic French crêpe or nibbling on a charcuterie board dotted with locally sourced meats. Communal seating is key, as is Instagramability. “The biggest difference between the food courts of yesteryear and the food halls of today is quality and soul,” explained Arturo Kassel, managing partner and CEO of Whisknladle Hospitality (the team behind Park Commons, a food hall coming soon to Sorrento Valley). He stresses the craftsmanship behind the concept, as well as a focus on local artisans. Quality is assured, but fast-food prices are not. Variety is also a crucial element of successful food halls. Grand Central Market in Los Angeles has nearly 40 vendors with a mix of trendy favorites (Eggslut) and some who have been stationed there for more than 50 years (Roast to Go). From a Latin grocer to an oyster bar headed by Los Angeles’ only master ecailler (shellfish master), food halls strive to offer something for everyone — including the discerning diner. “The role of food halls today is to appeal to a group of people who have a variety of tastes. No more arguments in the group over where to eat,” said Mike DiNorscia, CEO of Grain & Grit Collective, creators of Little Italy Food Hall. A few years ago, this type of dining experience was most often found in food truck parks like those scattered across Austin, Texas. But as pushback from brick-andmortar restaurants stifled food trucks’ popularity, San Diego trucks like Mastiff Sausage Company opted to permanently park in food halls instead. By making the shift to a shared space, vendors can appeal to consumers’ demand for instant gratification, as well as reduce operating costs and benefit from a shared marketing presence. David Spatafore, principal of Blue Bridge Hospitality, the owner and operator of Liberty Public Market, believes “the food hall can be an equalizer for small local business.” Locally, Liberty Public Market is the best known of the markets currently operating, but it’s facing major competition from concepts in Little Italy and those slated to open in Poway, Carlsbad and Barrio Logan, to name just a few. With a number in the works and several already humming along, San Diego County seems to be on the cusp of a true food hall renaissance. Here’s a look at the growing food hall trend around the county. BELCAMPO MEAT CO. PHOTO BY MIKE BAKER; LA MACELLERIA PHOTO BY ELIZABETH DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY; TACOS TUMBRAS A TOMAS PHOTO BY AMPARO RIO; THE OYSTER GOURMET PHOTO BY CLAUS FREYINGER; PARANA EMPANADAS PHOTO BY LAILA SAID; LIBERTY MARKET STATION PATION BY ROBERT BENSON
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Open Now Parana Empanadas
LIBERTY PUBLIC MARKET
Point Loma’s Liberty Station has been a shopping and dining destination since its overhaul in 2000, but 2016 marked a turning point in its history with the introduction of Liberty Public Market. The 25,000-square-foot venue hosts more than 30 artisans and culinary concepts, where patrons can enjoy local beer flights at the popular bottle shop/bar Bottlecraft, authentic Japanese cuisine at RakiRaki Ramen & Tsukemen (check out the chicken karaage), expert cheese selections at Venissimo, a medley of carnivorous delights at Liberty Meat Shop, and much more. 2820 Historic Decatur Rd., Point Loma 619.487.9346, libertypublicmarket.com
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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TASTE | DINING
Open Now CONTINUED
LITTLE ITALY FOOD HALL
The pocket-sized food hall in the heart of San Diego’s culinary hub opened in summer 2018 with Italian values in mind: good food, good friends and good community. Six food stations and a full bar offer options inspired from near and far, including Milanese-style pizza (Ambrogio15), “genre-bending fare” at Not Not Tacos from local culinary celeb Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien, and Japanese-fusion seafood (Single Fin Kitchen). The adjacent open-air Piazza della Famiglia spans 10,000 square feet of communal space to wine and dine, gab and graze, or laugh and nibble. 550 W. Date St., Ste. B, Little Italy 619.269.7187, littleitalyfoodhall.com PHOTO BY JOHN GASTALDO
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ANTHONY’s
FISH GROTTO Beautiful & Unique Setting SD’s Favorite Seafood Dog-friendly Outdoor Dining & Play Area
La Mesa 1210
Awesome Happy Hour and Drink Specials Mon-Fri
619-463-0368 • 9530 Murray Drive, 91942
→ANTHONYSFISHGROTTO.COM← @PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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TASTE | DINING
WINDMILL FOOD HALL
The iconic windmill nestled alongside I-5 has caught the eyes of passersby since its construction in the 1980s. Now, its revitalization will provide a home for approximately 10 vendors in what is scheduled to be the next food hall project to debut in San Diego County. The 12,000-square-foot space will sling out unique sliders from locals Notorious Burger, Korean-style fried chicken from newcomers Cross Street Chicken & Beer, authentic Belgian frites and Liège waffles from Belgium Delights, New England-style lobster rolls from Lobster West, and of course gourmet street tacos from Taco Lady. A second floor speakeasy will round out the concept in 2019. 890 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad
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Coming Soon
PARK COMMONS RENDERINGS BY BLUE MOTIF
PARK COMMONS
The team behind Whisknladle and Catania are setting up to launch a 10,000-square-foot food hall and event space in Sorrento Valley’s The Park campus. The venue, which is expected to open at the start of 2019, will be stocked with local favorites such as Dark Horse Coffee Roasters as well as promising newcomers like Allspicë (Middle Eastern cuisine), Best Dressed (soups and salads), Slow Poke (“fast life, slow food”), and El Parque Cocina Mexicana. Patrons will be able to enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, as well as food to go that will cater to the bustling business-lunch crowd. 9645 Scranton Rd., Sorrento Valley, parkcommonssd.com
PAN Y SAL
PHOTO BY HOWARD LIPIN
Barrio Logan will soon have its own food hall within the walls of a cultural institution, the 40,000-square-foot Bread & Salt art space and exhibition center. Slated to open in spring 2019, Pan y Sal will be home to a handful of vendors including Tijuana chef Jorge Garcia Flores, as well as a yet-to-be-named Baja craft brewer, bakery, coffee shop and wine store. A kitchen classroom will host workshops and pop-ups designed to incorporate the local community, as well as bring the spirit of Baja California to San Diego. 1955 Julian Ave., Barrio Logan breadandsaltsandiego.com Bread & Salt
Natal
THE OUTPOST URBAN FOOD HALL
Poway isn’t one of San Diego’s revered dining destinations — yet. The team behind Outpost hopes to change that by developing an “urban food hall” sprawled over 21,000 square feet with 15 vendors (to start). Tenants have not yet been finalized for the food hall that’s expected in fall 2019, but guests can expect a mix of familiar faces (including from 3 Local Brothers Group, the team behind Urge Gastropub and Mason Ale Works) and new concepts in the three-building, $35 million development that will also house residential units, retail shops and a health/lifestyle center. 13247 Poway Rd., Poway Beth Demmon is a San Diego-based craft beer writer whose work has appeared in BeerAdvocate, Playboy, Thrillist, MUNCHIES, Tales of the Cocktail, and more. Email her at beth@bethdemmon.com.
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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F L AVORS
FA R M E R ’ S TA B L E
ROUTE 29
BARREL REPUBLIC
FA R M E R ’ S TA B L E
ROUTE 29
BARREL REPUBLIC
Seeking an eatery that not only serves classic fall flavors, but also integrates autumnal inspiration into their charming decor? Farmer’s Table in La Mesa is your seasonallyinspired dining destination, touting apt adornments that pair effortlessly with their farm-to-fork menu items, including their Baby Kale Salad, comprised of roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, blueberries and candied walnuts, tossed in citrus vinaigrette.
Farm-fresh seasonal fare is the signature of Route 29, Napa Valley’s debut in The Gaslamp. This farm-to-table concept reflects the essence of wine country’s rusticmodern ambiance with elements of wood, iron and copper decor amidst an open kitchen design. Artfully prepared, the fluctuating menu rotates with the seasons to meet the demand for sustainable, organic ingredients for dishes including The Farmer’s Salad, a butternut squash and haricot vert salad with onion, radish, corn, cauliflower and fig aderezo.
In the pursuit of food as warm and comforting as the changing autumn leaves, look no further than Barrel Republic. With three locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad and Pacific Beach, this beloved beer mecca is home to well-over 40 casks of coveted craft brew alongside an elevated menu of Southern California fare. Sink your fork into a staple of the fall menu; the Vegan Wild Mushroom “French Dip.” This seasonal sandwich brings together richly textured portobello, oyster and button mushrooms with sautéed onion, spinach, vegan cheese and a savory porcini au jus.
(619) 235-8144 | route29restaurant.com
(760) 435-0042 | (760) 841-8404 | (858) 270-9922 barrelrepublic.com
(619) 724-6465 | farmerstablelamesa.com 60
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PROMOTIONAL
THE HAVEN PIZZERIA
BARLEYMASH
T H E H AV E N P I Z Z E R I A
BARLEYMASH
Cooler temperatures create the perfect excuse for cozying up at home with a piping hot pizza from The Haven, a Kensington neighborhood favorite eatery located along Adams Avenue. Offering some of the best Neapolitanstyles pizzas in San Diego, fresh, seasonal produce tops many of The Haven’s creations, such as the Total Package. The combination of roasted garlic sauce, crispy Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions and melted mozzarella cheese can be enjoyed at the quaint pizzeria, ordered as takeout or delivered straight to your house. During October, The Haven will also feature a seasonal pizza made with pumpkin, olive oil, caramelized onions, gorgonzola and roasted walnuts - all the flavors of fall on one pizza pie? Yes, please.
Deep booths, bourbon and food that warms the belly are perfect accompaniments for the cooler evenings to come. Downtown’s barleymash offers just that. Fostering a sense of community, this fun, high-energy restaurant and bar invites both locals and tourists to grab a seat and enjoy the Gaslamp District’s best bites and beverages. Executive Chef Kevin Templeton strives for scratch-made dishes with organic, locally grown and sustainable ingredients, and takes pride in creating menus built upon seasonal favorite dishes. Rich duck and fall flavors come to life with their Duck Empanadas, made with duck confit, sweet corn, arugula, goat cheese, lime crema and a roasted poblano beer-cheese sauce. Another favorite is The Farmhouse, comprised of roasted spaghetti squash, zucchini, tri-color cauliflower, green beans, carrots, toasted quinoa, freshly made heirloom tomato sauce and basil oil. House-made focaccia bread is served on the side to soak up the flavorful sauces. Pair with a glass of crisp, bright Riesling for a delectable dinner. (619) 255-7373 | barleymash.com
around (619) 281-1904 | thehavenpizzeria.com
PROMOTIONAL
TASTE | EVENTS
Full Plate
October food + drink happenings BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
10.3 CELEBRITY CHEF SERIES © GAMEFACE MEDIA
Herb & Wood, Little Italy chefseries.eventbrite.com Brian Malarkey and Sam Talbot, another former Top Chef contestant, kick off the first in a series of Herb & Wood’s guestcentric events with a five-course, beveragepaired dinner featuring two courses prepared by the TV chefs themselves. BRADLEY SCHWEIT
Fit Foodie Festival & 5K
Gaslamp Gala
TO WIN TICKETS, SEE PAGE 10!
10.4 GASLAMP GALA Gaslamp Quarter Hilton Hotel, Gaslamp gaslamp.org Nosh on tray-passed apps from 10 of downtown’s best restaurants, then raise a glass to the Gaslamp itself during this decadent three-course dinner that evolves into an exclusive outdoor celebration right on a closed-off block of Fifth Avenue. See how you can win tickets to this event on page 10.
10.6 SECOND ANNUAL VALLE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Finca Altozano, Valle de Guadalupe (Shuttles depart from Old Town Transit Center), vallefoodandwinefest.com Board a 50-person bus or book a sevenperson SUV and travel down to Baja, where 30 chefs from both sides of the border will
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prepare a massive, locally sourced meal in the midst of mountains, vineyards and a huge selection of adult beverages.
35 restaurants sprinkled with 15 sip stops between destinations.
10.6 TASTE OF OCEANSIDE
Throughout North Park explorenorthpark.com Sink your teeth into tasty samples from more than 50 of North Park’s restaurants on this self-guided foodie tour that includes stops at 15 neighborhood breweries.
Throughout downtown Oceanside mainstreetoceanside.com Take a ride on the Taste Trolley — or just hoof it if you want the exercise — and sample great food, beer and wine from many of O’side’s most reputable eateries.
10.11 TASTE OF CARLSBAD VILLAGE Throughout downtown Carlsbad carlsbad-village.com Discover Carlsbad’s delectable dining scene on this self-guided walking tour to Taste of North Park
10.13 TASTE OF NORTH PARK
10.18-20 BAJA CULINARY FEST Various locations around Tijuana bajaculinaryfest.com Culinary stars from around Baja and San Diego are descending upon Tijuana for three days filled with conferences, workshops, cooking demonstrations and a culminating festival at Club Campestre de Tijuana featuring dishes from 30 culinary stations, live music and the chance to interact with participating chefs.
10.20 FIT FOODIE FESTIVAL & 5K Liberty Station NTC Park, Point Loma fitfoodierun.com Treat yourself to a feast on your way to the finish line during this gustatory jaunt that precedes a post-run Food & Fitness Festival, featuring even more mouthwatering bites along with a beer garden, culinary demonstrations and much more.
Barks & Brews Oktoberfest
10.27 FOURTH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO MAC & CHEESE FEST Waterfront Park, Little Italy sandiegomacncheese.com Cast a vote for the city’s best mac ‘n’ cheese while sipping 10 beer samples at this congregation of comfort-food aficionados, which highlights restaurants selected by SoCal’s top chefs.
10.27 SAN DIEGO CULINARY BOWL
Side Dish
Three new restaurants to check out HIDDEN FISH, KEARNY MESA San Diego’s first-of-its-kind omakaseonly sushi bar opened on Convoy Street in September. Run by former Bang Bang chef John “Kappa” Hong, the 13-seat bar offers timed dining experiences a few times each evening. The chef’s menu will change frequently. Five of the 13 seats are reserved for a 90-minute meal of 18 pieces of sushi priced at $90. The remaining eight seats are for diners having a 30-minute meal of 12 pieces of sushi, priced at $50. — Pam Kragen 4764 Convoy St., Ste. A, Kearny Mesa hiddenfishsushi.com
FERNSIDE, SOUTH PARK This new neighborhood restaurant and cocktail bar opened at the end of September in the former South Park Abbey space. It’s the latest concept from Adam Cook (Bluefoot Bar & Lounge, Soda Bar), with a family-friendly California/American menu and craft cocktail program designed by Christian Siglin (Cutwater Spirits, Bracero Cocina de Raiz). — Pam Kragen 1946 Fern St., South Park 619.987.2835, Instagram: @fernsideftw
COMMON STOCK, HILLCREST Open since mid-September, this new addition to Hillcrest, which takes over the former Salt & Cleaver space, asks people to “dine different” with a menu providing scratch-prepared foods with “obsessively” sourced ingredients. Expect to find chicken several ways, including rotisserie and Nashville hot, plus fresh, shareable plates like avocado hummus and caramelized onion dip. — Leslie Hackett 3508 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest eatcommonstock.com
BRYA N KATO
Art Institute of California — San Diego, Mission Valley, sdchefs.org Spectate — or participate — in this daylong series of judged cooking challenges with categories including bread, desserts and hot appetizers, among others.
Oktoberfest Oktoberfest Events Events 10.5-6 THIRD ANNUAL OKTOBIERFISH Beerfish, Normal Heights beerfish.com Normal Heights’ casual-counter seafood spot invites Oktoberfest fans to kick off the weekend with live polka music on Friday followed by grilled brats and great brews on the patio Saturday afternoon.
10.5-7 EL CAJON OKTOBERFEST German American Societies, El Cajon, germanclubsandiego.org Tantalize your taste buds with authentic German food, beer and booze featuring a raffle that will award the winner with a flight for two to the Fatherland.
10.6 CARLSBAD OKTOBERFEST Holiday Park, Carlsbad rotaryoktoberfest.org Dust off your finest German attire as North County’s longest-running Oktoberfest returns for another year of costume contests, ice-cold beers, music, meals and much, much more.
10.6-7 WEST COAST OKTOBERFEST: THE PURSUIT OF HOPPINESS Music Box, Little Italy musicboxsd.com Spanning India Street between Ash and A streets, this traditional German extravaganza will feature more music, bratwursts and costume contests than you can shake a schnitzel at.
10.12-13 OB OKTOBERFEST Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach oboktoberfest.com Toss a sausage, gorge on bratwurst or dare to do “Das Booty Flip” as Bavaria takes over Ocean Beach for a weekend full of beer, live music, costume contests and lots of crazy challenges.
10.13 OKTOBERFEST CORONADO ISLAND Coronado Ferry Landing, Coronado oktoberfestsd.com Tickets to Coronado’s take on the Oktoberfest tradition include unlimited beer pours, a custom stein and a bratwurst sandwich in addition to samples of German-inspired cuisine from several of the city’s restaurants
10.13 PALA OKTOBERFEST Pala Casino, Pala, palacasino.com Pala Casino welcomes you to celebrate Oktoberfest in style by treating your taste buds to 10 beer samples and fill up at food stations including German pretzels, sauerkraut, strudels and Brussels sprouts.
10.20 BARKS & BREWS OKTOBERFEST Spanish Landing Park East, near Harbor Island dogsdrinkfree.com Fans of dogs, beer or both are invited to attend this furry and foamy event that includes dozens of brews, a contest to determine the ugliest dog and more free biscuits than your pooch will know what to do with.
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TASTE | BEER
Take it from the Tap
A monthly taste of beer from here BY PETER ROWE
THIRST-QUENCHING
A local beer to spend some time with Beer: It’s Festtastic! From: Bagby Beer Why: This German-style Oktoberfest beer is true to the Marzen style — amber in color, malty but light in body, with only a hint of brash West Coast hopping. It’s a cheerful, slightly warming beer ideal for crisper days and nights. Geeking out: 5.9% alcohol by volume. Seeking out: Head to Bagby Beer’s spacious brewpub at 601 S. Coast Hwy. in Oceanside. Try it with the pork belly poutine and Belgian frites. Inside out: While owner Jeff Bagby is renowned for his hoppy IPAs, he also has a way with malty brews. His Baltic porter and Irish stout have medaled at the Great American Beer Festival.
BARRIO LOGAN BREWERY CRAWL
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Thorn Brewing
A Barrio Logan pub crawl
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Chicano Park. Turn left on South Evans Street and, a block later, right on Logan. A brief stroll — stagger? — brings you to Border X (2181 Logan Ave.). Order Abuelita’s Chocolate Stout, a cocoa-andcinnamon rhapsody in brews. Taco: Hungry? !Salud!, across Logan from Border X, has killer tacos and stellar beers. It’s also one of the few places you’ll find Cerveza Xteca, a Cali-Mex lager contractbrewed at Chula Vista’s Novo Brazil. Another reason to go: At press time, Attitude Brewing (Suite 1115 in the Mercado del Barrio, at the corner of National and Cesar Chavez) was on the verge of opening. Be among the first to check it out!
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Go: Head to Barrio Logan for an easy and refreshing brewery crawl. Know: Good beer is always nearby on this 0.7-mile trek from Thorn Brewing (1745 National Ave.) to beersavvy taqueria !Salud! (2196 Logan Ave.). Pro: Start at Thorn with a dryas-July-in-Borrego Houblon Grand Cur, a brut IPA. Then march two blocks south to the multi-story Mercado del Barrio. Turn right on Cesar E. Chavez Parkway, then left on Newton Avenue. Suite 1132 is a tap room of Vista’s Iron Fist Brewing Co. Sample Nelson the Impaler, a pale ale with juicy New Zealand hops. Glow: Return to National and continue south, past historic
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GROOVE MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE SOUND DECISIONS BY SCOTT MCDONALD
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Sting Sting & & Shaggy Shaggy
10.16
@ Harrah’s, harrahssocal.com This odd pairing of the former Police frontman and the Jamaican singer known as Mr. Boombastic produced the collaborative album, 44/876, earlier this year. The 16-track collection features each singer switching off lead vocal duties, as well as a feature from family reggae band Morgan Heritage. PHOTO BY DAVID BORRAT
Skip the Tailgate Catch this season’s best drink SPECIALS at Gaslamp’s game day headquarters THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL SPECIALS
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GROOVE
Sound Decisions October Concert Calendar BY SCOTT MCDONALD
The The
B-52s B-52s
10.6
@ Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Although founding member Keith Strickland no longer tours with the band, fellow originals Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson, and Cindy Wilson still Roam the world. And while you may have been able to catch them in all kinds of other cities with Boy George, they were not on that bill last month in San Diego. PHOTO BY SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP/GETTY IMAGES
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10.1 CONOR OBERST & THE MYSTIC RIVER BAND
10.2 GHOSTLAND OBSERVATORY
@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Nebraska-born singer/ songwriter once known as Bright Eyes released his eighth solo studio album, Salutations, in 2017. For his upcoming tour, he’s reuniting with The Mystic Valley Band after last releasing an album with them in 2012. Perhaps this is preparation for a trip back into the studio together.
@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com After an extended hiatus, the Austin, Texas-based electro duo of Aaron Behrens and Thomas Turner returned with their Life of the Party EP in 2015. They followed that with last month’s first full-length album from the band in eight years, See You Later Simulator.
10.2 5 SECONDS OF SUMMER @ Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu/calcoast These guys are moving on up! Last here in April at the House of Blues, the YouTube celebs turned Aussie boy band get the significant venue upgrade in only half a year. Their third album, Youngblood, was released in June.
10.3 MC50 @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego To celebrate the 50th (!) anniversary of the MC5’s landmark live album, Kick Out the Jams, guitarist Wayne Kramer has enlisted members of Soundgarden, Faith No More, and Fugazi to play the album in its entirety each night. Rumor has it there are a few additional MC5 classics that get thrown into the mix as well.
N OW OPEN 644 5th Avenue | Gaslamp Distric t | San Diego, C A 92101 w w w. r o u t e 2 9 r e s t a u r a n t . c o m |
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 10.4
Mexrrissey Mexrrissey
@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Led by Mexican Institute of Sound’s Camilo Lara, this earnest tribute to Moz infuses the songs of the former Smiths frontman with traditional Mexican sounds. Their new live show, La Reina is Dead, finds the band interpreting The Smiths’ classic third studio album in its entirety.
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OCTOBER 2018
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS
Interpol Interpol @ Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu/calcoast The Paul Banks-led indie rockers released their sixth studio album, Marauder, in August. Produced by Dave Fridmann (The Flaming Lips, Ok Go, MGMT), Marauder was the band’s first album in four years.
10.5
PHOTO BY ANDY BUCHANAN/ AFP/GETTY IMAGES
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS
Ozzy Ozzy Osbourne Osbourne 10.9
@ Mattress Firm Amphitheatre, livenation.com The Ozzman cometh to San Diego. Again. After all, this run is called No More Tours 2. But despite the irony, the Grammy-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee will bring his “final” tour back to America’s Finest City with longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde in tow. PHOTO BY STR/AFP/GETTY IMAGES
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS
10.12
Dierks Dierks Bentley Bentley @ Mattress Firm Amphitheatre, livenation.com The country singer/songwriter returns to San Diego on his Mountain High Tour, after releasing his ninth studio album, The Mountain, in June. The Mountain debuted at the top spot of Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart and features collaborations with Brothers Osborne and Brandi Carlisle. PHOTO BY PAUL R. GIUNTA/INVISION/AP
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VISIT ONE OF OUR 7 LOCATIONS: TAJIMA EAST VILLAGE | TAJIMA NORTH PARK | TAJIMA HILLCREST TAJIMA CONVOY | TAJIMA MERCURY | TAJIMA LONG BEACH | TAJIMA TIJUANA
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@TAJIMARESTAURANTS
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 10.3 COURTNEY BARNETT @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Last here almost exactly one year ago with Kurt Vile promoting the pair’s collaborative Lotta Sea Lice album, the Aussie singer and songwriter returns alone, having released her second solo LP, Tell Me How You Really Feel, in May.
10.5 JON PARDI @ Harrah’s, harrahssocal.com Pardi, a country singer who grew up outside of Sacramento, scored a No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Country Chart with his 2016 sophomore album, California Sunrise. Two of the album’s footwear-related singles — Head Over Boots and Dirt on My Boots — have gone platinum.
10.5 ROKY ERICKSON @ Casbah, casbahmusic.com Psych-rock godfather and founding member of The 13th Floor Elevators returns to San Diego. Erickson’s last album, True Love Cast Out All Evil, was released in 2010. Death Valley Girls open the show.
10.11 HINDS @ The Irenic, sodabarmusic.com Spain’s all-girl rockers get a local warm-up show before heading up the road to Lake Perris for an appearance at the Desert Daze Fest. The band’s sophomore studio album, I Don’t Run, was released in April.
10.12-14 DESERT DAZE FESTIVAL @ Lake Perris, desertdaze.org Moving down from Joshua Tree to just up the road in
Fitz Fitz and the 10.12
and the Tantrums Tantrums @ Sycuan, sycuan.com The indie-poppers hit the casino circuit for some blackjack and HandClap after releasing their selftitled third studio album in 2016. PHOTO BY AMY HARRIS/REX SHUTTERSTOCK/ZUMA PRESS/TNS
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Lake Perris, the annual threeday psych-fest is now easily accessible to San Diegans. And this year’s lineup is worth the short drive. Tame Impala, Warpaint, My Bloody Valentine, Ty Segall, and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard are all scheduled to perform.
moved after someone really did “take (him) to church.” His latest 4-track EP, Nina Cried Power, kicks things off with a title track that features Grammy winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and Kennedy Center-honored gospel singer Mavis Staples.
10.15 KING KHAN & THE SHRINES
10.17 SYSTEM OF A DOWN
@ Belly Up, bellyup.com Canadian-born, Berlin-based garage rocker King Khan (aka Arish Ahmad Khan) brings his wild stage show, and love for costumes, to Solana Beach. The band’s last album, Idle No More, was released in 2013.
@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com After reuniting in 2010, the Serj Tankian-led alternative metal act has played sporadically while working on a yet-to-bereleased follow-up to their two releases in 2005 — Mezmerize and Hypnotize. They’ll be joined by the recently reunited At The Drive In, who last year released In•ter a•li•a, their first studio album in 17 years.
10.15 HOZIER @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Hozier must’ve really been
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS
Noah Noah Cyrus Cyrus 10.17, 23 THIEVERY CORPORATION @ Belly Up, bellyup.com Washington D.C.’s finest sitartinged beat makers return to San Diego for a pair of shows with nearly a week between them. Julian Marley will provide support for the first date, while DJ Z-Trip is on board for the second.
10.18 FIDLAR @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The L.A. skate punk quartet released their sophomore album, the aptly titled Too, in 2015. They retuned earlier this year with two new singles — Alcohol and Are You High?
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10.18 @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Unfortunately in the news lately for her breakup with rapper Lil Xan, the 18-year-old actress and singer (and Miley’s little sister) eased her blues with the release of her debut EP, Good Cry, last month. PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER
10.20 SCALLYWAG! @ Waterfront Park, scallywagfest.com It’s another day of craft beer, food, and music with the ocean as a backdrop. Headlining punks Rancid, who released their ninth studio album, Trouble Maker, last year, will be joined by The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Hepcat, Less Than Jake, The Interrupters and Beach Goons.
10.22 SIMPLE MINDS @ Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Don’t you forget about them. The veteran Scottish act released their first album of original material in four years,
POLK/GETTY IMAGES
Walk Between Worlds, last February. As they enter their 42nd year together, founding members Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill are still at the helm.
10.25 JAY ROCK @ SOMA, somasandiego.com Top Dawg Entertainment labelmate to Kendrick Lamar, the L.A. rapper released his third studio album, Redemption, in June. In addition to Lamar, the album features guest appearances from J. Cole, Future, SZA, and more.
10.25 TROYE SIVAN @ Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu/calcoast
The South African-born Australian pop singer and actor released his second studio album, Bloom, in August. He also is set to appear in the upcoming film Boy Erased, which will be released in the U.S. on Nov. 2.
10.27, 30 BØRNS @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com L.A.-based pop singer BØRNS, aka Garrett Borns, released his second studio album, Blue Madonna, at the start of 2018 on Interscope Records. He visits San Diego on his Fruit of Dreams Tour, which will continue through next year.
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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS
Alina Alina Baraz Baraz 10.24, 25
@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The 24-year-old singer first teamed with Danish producer Galimatias on her 2015 debut EP, Urban Flora. She followed that by touring with Coldplay and releasing a few singles of her own. Her fulllength follow-up, The Color of You, was released in April and features a pair of tracks with Khalid.
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GROOVE
Spin Cycle
October EDM and DJ performances
BY SCOTT MCDONALD
10.4
TYGA
@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Compton-born rapper Michael Stevenson (aka Tyga) released his sixth studio album, Kyoto, earlier this year. It features collaborations with Tory Lanez, 24hrs and Gucci Mane. Stevenson also starred in the upcoming third season of MTV’s Scream, an episodic reboot of the famous horror film franchise. Two new Tyga singles, Swap Meet and Dip, were released last month. PHOTO BY VIVIEN KILLILEA/GETTY IMAGES
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10.5 LIL JON
10.19 CASH CASH
@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The DJ, producer and Grammywinning King of Crunk returns to OMNIA fresh from teaming with Lil Buddha on a new single, No Hook, last month. It follows another collaborative single, January’s Alive, which found Lil Jon paired with 2 Chainz and Offset.
@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Releasing a pair of singles earlier this year — February’s Jewel (feat. Nikki Vianna) and April’s Finest Hour (feat. Abir) — the N.Y.-based DJ trio of Jean Paul Makhlouf, Alex Makhlouf and Samuel Frisch return to San Diego after their last visit here in June.
10.5 EPTIC
10.20 LADIES OF LCD SOUNDSYSTEM
@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The 25-year-old Belgian dubstep DJ (aka Michael Bella) has released an EP every year (and two in 2012) since dropping his self-titled debut in 2011. His 2018 installment, Anti-Human, features three new tracks and a remix from English DJ Trampa of the single Hold Me Back.
10.10-14 GROOVE CRUISE groovecruise.com/en/cabo Ahoy, matey! Sick and tired of seeing your favorite DJs in a stuffy club? Here’s your chance to see them both onboard a ship, as well with an ocean view at Mexico’s Blasé Beach Club. The GROOVE CRUISE departs from, and returns to, San Diego, with one fabulous layover in Cabo San Lucas. Aboard the ship, Benny Benassi, Laidback Luke, MK, Shiba San and more will keep the party going, while Duke Dumont will host a very special event in Cabo. Time to grab your life jacket and some glow sticks!
10.13 CRIZZLY @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Austin, Texas-based DJ and producer Crizzly (Chris Marshall) has released four singles so far in 2018 — Riot with Pasdat, Bangin’ with Carbin, Knocked Out with YDG and the August remix of Jibbs’ Chain Hang Low with AFK.
@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Synth players Rayna Russom and Nancy Whang from the James Murphy-led, Brooklynbased dance collective hit San Diego as part of a co-headlining DJ run. The Grammy-winning pair has promised that each date of their month-long tour will feature a local female or non-binary performer as the opening act.
10.22 ZHU W/ TOKIMONSTA @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The L.A.-based DJ and former CRSSD headliner released his second studio album, Ringos Desert, last month. It features collabs with Tame Impala, JOY and Majid Jordan, as well as show opener Tokimonsta (aka fellow L.A. DJ Jennifer Lee). The remixes to her 2017 full-length, Lune Rouge, were released earlier this year.
10.26 CHRIS LAKE @ Spin, spinnightclub.com It’s been a massive year for English House DJ and producer Chris Lake. His 2018 credits include an EP, Close Your Eyes, with Walker & Royce, as well as a bunch of singles — Lose My Mind, Pizza with Anti Up and Chris Lorenzo, Y.O.D.O. with Destructo and Deceiver with Green Valet.
10.26
SIKDOPE @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com The Polish DJ and producer has kept busy this year, releasing a handful of singles to date — Back Again with Loud About Us, My House, Badder with ATRIP, Bubblegum with ZOOTAH, and last month’s Lost in the Blue (feat. Nevve).
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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GROOVE | SPIN CYCLE 10.27 DADA LIFE @ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com In addition to the non-album single Love Vibrations with HILO, Olle Cornéer and Stefan Engblom of Swedish House duo, Dada Life released their latest full-length album, Our Nation, last May. And while the pair continues to work together in the studio, it’s only Engblom who still heads out on the road for live shows.
10.27 STAFFORD BROTHERS + E-40 @ Parq, parqsd.com It’s not exactly a spooky pairing, but for Halloween weekend, Parq is hosting an EDM and hip-hop double dip with Stafford Brothers and E-40. The Australian-born, L.A.-based DJ siblings team up with the veteran Bay Area rapper, actor and entrepreneur for what should prove to be an unforgettable night of music.
10.31, 11.1 RÜFÜS DU SOL
10.31 ARMNHMR
@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com Let’s hear it for Australian dance trio RÜFÜS DU SOL! Not only have they finally uncomplicated their name (they used to go simply by RÜFÜS in their home country), singer/guitarist Tyrone Lindqvist, keyboardist Jon George and drummer James Hunt are releasing a new album this month, SOLACE, and are taking over the Valley View Casino Center for two nights! Bloody ripper!
@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The S.F./L.A.-based DJ duo comprised of Joseph Chung and Joseph Abella released their latest single, Leave It All (feat. Luma), in August. Earlier this year, the two Josephs also teamed with Convex on the collaborative single Won’t Come Back (feat. Jex).
10.26
GOLDFISH @ Belly Up, bellyup.com South African-born, now San Diegobased electronic duo Goldfish (longtime friends Dominic Peters and David Poole) released their sixth studio album, Late Night People, last year. The pair has released a few remix EPs of singles from the album so far this year. PHOTO BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS
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LOVE | BLIND DATE
BEING SUPPORTIVE
BY MICHAEL BENNINGER PHOTOS BY DAVID BROOKS MATCHMAKER JESSICA PELLIGRA
A spankin’ new San Diegan and a native Californian bare their soles during acro-yoga
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sually, the locals who agree to go on these blind dates are familiar with PACIFIC — or at least San Diego. But Crystal’s about to discover that’s not exactly the case when she meets Krisztian (Kris), who only moved to town a week before tonight’s outing. Crystal and Kris first lay eyes on each other inside a luxurious EPIC Limo, and although the daters only have a few minutes to chat before their first activity, they’re about to have their hands — and feet — all over each other as we’re sending them on a romantic and acrobatic adventure at an aerial studio in Linda Vista. Before the fun begins, let’s review their pre-date interviews. Where are you from, and where do you live now? 88
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KRIS: Short answer, I was born in Hungary and mostly grew up in Florida. I just moved to San Diego a week ago for more schooling and work. CRYSTAL: I grew up in Irvine, and moved to San Diego about two and a half years ago. What do you do for a living? KRIS: Defense contractor. CRYSTAL: I work in the restaurant/ bar industry while working toward my real estate career. Why are you going on a blind date in PACIFIC? KRIS: I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, to be honest. I walked out of my friend’s apartment on the way to a yacht party for Labor Day weekend and the magazine’s matchmaker — who
lives across the hall — was walking out of her place on the way to work. She mentioned to her friend who was with us that she had a cancellation. Everyone pointed at me, while I jokingly raised my hand. A few questions later, she took my info, and here I am. I didn’t know this was going to be as big as it is, but I’m excited for the experience. CRYSTAL: What do I have to lose? Sounds like fun! I’ve never been on a blind date, so why not? What do you do for fun? KRIS: I’ve spent the last six years, on and off, traveling the world. That’s pretty much been my excitement/focus till now. But my top five hobbies would be scuba, hiking, surfing, kayaking and yoga. CRYSTAL: I like to pretend that I am good at golf. Learning to line
dance is super fun. Watching girly TV shows on girls’ nights. Reading a good book. What are you best at? KRIS: Looking at the clock and wondering where all the time went. CRYSTAL: I’m alright at any little thing I try, but maybe not the best. What do you suck at? KRIS: Nothing, I pick up stuff fairly quickly and get pretty good at it. But I would say I suck at sticking with whatever it is past just the point of being pretty good at it — to actually become great at something. I wouldn’t say it’s lack of passion though; I’d say I just like to enjoy more of everything life has to offer. CRYSTAL: I suck at finding answers for these questions. I also wish I could sing.
LOVE | BLIND DATE
What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise? KRIS: Physically, she has to take care of her body. I’m an active person so that’s a must for me, and it also shows discipline. Otherwise, I hope she’s very relaxed and easygoing, so we have a ton of fun and laughs. CRYSTAL: Obviously, being physically attracted to someone is a given. Just hope it comes with a great personality as well. Describe your special brand of sex appeal in five words or less. KRIS: Being authentic. CRYSTAL: What does that even mean? I guess I would say briefs over boxers. What do you like least about yourself? KRIS: I wish I was a little bit taller, I wish I was a baller… CRYSTAL: I wish I gave myself a little more credit. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. KRIS: Looks are so subjective. I’m gonna go right down the middle and say five. You be the judge. CRYSTAL: I don’t like to answer this question, but I wouldn’t say that I hate the way I look. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality. KRIS: Well, not to toot my own horn, and, as they say, you can’t please everybody, so I’ll go with a nine. CRYSTAL: Everyone has their moments, but I would normally say I’m a pretty happy, fun person. Depends on who I am around. What’s your biggest fear? KRIS: Ghost peppers. I don’t like spicy. CRYSTAL: Disappointing my parents. What traits could your date exhibit that would be complete deal-breakers? KRIS: Ditzy or some comment putting down another person or other signs of negativity. CRYSTAL: Super cocky/bad personality, bad breath.
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How many people have you slept with? KRIS: An average amount. CRYSTAL: Who answers this? You guys are funny. Fill in the blanks: I want my blind date to be “blank” and “blank.” KRIS: I want my blind date to be fun and have a cute smile. CRYSTAL: Funny and engaging. Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less? KRIS: It’s hard to say. I know nothing about her. If I’m interested, I’ll definitely push for the second date, though. But naturally, as a man, yes, I’m likely hoping for at least a kiss by the end of the date. Other possible influencing factors: are there going to be cameras on us? If so, is that a turn-off or turn-on for her? CRYSTAL: A kiss, possibly, if we are into each other. What’s the most important thing in the world? KRIS: There are too many important issues that need to be addressed in the world, and I’m not going to turn this last question into a book. But I will say I think it is important for more people to reconnect with nature. I do believe a lot more people’s personal issues would be reduced if they spent more time in the real outdoors. And happier people, in turn, would likely help some of the larger issues we face. CRYSTAL: Family, friends, happiness and health. Aerial Revolution is a Cirque du Soleil-inspired exercise studio where fitness enthusiasts and professional performers can mix up their workouts and express themselves artistically. Crystal and Kris exit the EPIC Limo upon their arrival and make their way toward the door, where they’re greeted by Aerial Revolutions’ friendly trainers. Inside the spacious facility, a rainbow of ropes, silks, hammocks and hoops hang from the high ceiling, ready for some attention from tonight’s daters.
LOVE | BLIND DATE
HANGING AROUND Crystal and Kris get cozy
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ithin minutes of arriving at Aerial Revolution, Crystal and Kris have kicked off their shoes and are already executing intermediate acro-yoga movements with minimal difficulty. At first, Crystal seems a bit tense — and who wouldn’t be while hovering above a virtual stranger whose bare feet are on your inner thighs. Yet, before long, as Kris shows he knows what’s doing, Crystal begins to relax and enjoy the activity even more. After nearly an hour both on the mat and in the air, Crystal and Kris have each worked up an appetite. They get changed to their evening clothes, head back into the EPIC Limo and crack open a couple cold bottles of Modelo to set the mood for tonight’s dinner destination: East Village’s brand-new Mexican-food mecca, Lola 55. After more than two years in 92
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development, Lola 55 opened in mid-August on the first floor of the new IDEA1 building on the corner of 13th and F streets. The finecasual taco spot was designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Bells + Whistles, and the counter-style restaurant specializes in a selection of gourmet tacos prepared to order. Crystal and Kris each take seats at a reserved table in the center of the restaurant, and the attentive waitstaff wastes no time delivering a flurry of delectable tacos alongside a cascade of cocktails made with agave spirits and seasonal fruits. After the daters have had time to taste some of Lola 55’s finest offerings, we split them up for mid-date debriefings. How’s it going so far? KRIS: Great, she’s very relaxed. I like that. Easygoing. We already talked about possibly, after here, going somewhere else and hanging out, so that’s cool. CRYSTAL: Oh, it’s been great. He’s
very sociable. He’s a sweetheart, a gentleman, a little bit flirty. It’s been super fun. What were your first impressions of your date? KRIS: She was a little uneasy at first; I was relaxed. But that was the fact that I came to the car and she wasn’t there yet (Kris was the first to be picked up in the limo). I had a little bit of time to wind into the situation, and she had to jump right into it. So I think that I had a leg up on that. CRYSTAL: Well, I thought he was adorable. He’s very nice. Opened my door for me. So that was sweet. Very engaging, talked a lot, asked a lot about me, so that was nice. Is this the type of person you’d normally date? KRIS: Yes, she’s very sweet. I am attracted to a kind personality, a soft personality, because I travel a lot and talk to a lot of people. To
do that, you have to be warm and welcoming, and that’s part of who she is, warm and welcoming. CRYSTAL: I wouldn’t say normally, because I think I like guys who are not as nice as him. But of course, I want a nice guy. Maybe, you never know. We might go on another date. We’ll see. What do you think of the way your date is dressed? KRIS: Oh, beautiful. CRYSTAL: I think he thought it was going to be a little more fancy, but I guess I’m dressed up a little fancy too, so it’s kind of cute. I definitely like the vest and tie he’s got on. How was your experience at Aerial Revolution? KRIS: It was good. I’ve done something like this many years ago, so I had an idea of what I was getting myself into. So it was super easy, and of course, her trusting the
fact that I kind of know what I’m doing made the whole situation flow easier. CRYSTAL: I loved it. I had no idea what to expect, but it was so much fun, and I would absolutely do it again — 100%. I want to sign up now, actually. How is your experience at Lola 55? KRIS: It’s wonderful, it’s a very nice building. The prices are great. You can definitely just pop in and have a few bites with anybody. CRYSTAL: So when I first walked in, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The food is beautiful and tastes great. I can’t wait to try the rest of it. What did you eat/drink/do there? KRIS: I had a mule and she had a strawberry cucumber tequila drink. Both were great. I was uneasy about the strawberry, but it’s very nice. It’s actually not sweet at all. The food has been great, too. Nice presentation. CRYSTAL: I think it’s an Indian something. It’s a strawberry-basil tequila drink. It’s super good. His was the tequila mule and that was amazing, too.
What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far? KRIS: When the natural smile comes out, not the forced smiles we’ve had to do for the cameras. But the natural smile. CRYSTAL: Probably be a little flirty when I didn’t expect it. He grabbed me on my legs before we were about to do this random pose. That was cute, and I didn’t expect it.
What’s your date’s most attractive quality? KRIS: I like the long hair, I know it’s a hassle for her. But it’s something that’s grown on me as I’ve gotten older. I used to hate it because it gets everywhere. CRYSTAL: Well, he can hold me up in the air with his feet for a really long time, so … I was very surprised.
What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far? KRIS: I don’t really recall anything. CRYSTAL: He has not really been unattractive at all. He’s been super sweet and awesome.
What’s your date’s least attractive quality? KRIS: Nothing yet. CRYSTAL: Honestly, he doesn’t seem really unattractive to me.
Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks. KRIS: Wow, that’s a harsh one. Nine because I’m typically attracted to blondes, but otherwise, she’s very pretty. Slender. I’m skinny, so that’s typically a problem. CRYSTAL: Well, I don’t think that’s very nice, but he’s very handsome. Cute and adorably sweet. And for personality? KRIS: Personality? Great. 10. CRYSTAL: He has a great personality. I give him a 10 for sure.
Do you want to kiss your date right now? KRIS: Yeah, actually. She had her eyes closed, but I was actually going to go for it earlier when we were doing the yoga. CRYSTAL: I guess we’ll have to find out. The night’s not over yet. Does your date want to kiss you? KRIS: I don’t know, but we are planning on hanging out, so hopefully it goes that way after. CRYSTAL: Well, right when we got in the ride on the way to our first date, he already asked me to hang
out on Saturday, so I think maybe. How and when will the date end? KRIS: That’s a good question. Right now, we’re planning on going to another bar after this. So I guess it depends on how long we hang out there. CRYSTAL: I think we might go somewhere, maybe Moonshine Flats or someplace in Little Italy. We’ll see. Anything you’d like to add? KRIS: I’m pleasantly surprised at what has been going on. I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. But it’s been nice. I guess not everybody is totally comfortable with the idea. But that being said, I don’t think it’s that bad if you’re open to just hanging out. Worstcase scenario, you make a friend. It doesn’t necessarily have to go further than that. For me, specifically, I’m new to the town. So even if I were just friends with her, that would be great. I’m enjoying it. CRYSTAL: I’m glad I got to be on this date. I didn’t expect to have such a good time. But it’s been really awesome, and I really like the yoga we did. I had a really good time, and I’m pleasantly surprised.
@PACIFICSD
OCTOBER 2018
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A CONFOUNDING CONCLUSION Kris loses his P.B. virginity
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mpty glasses gather on the table at Lola 55 and are just as quickly whisked away. Between the acro-yoga, the tornado of tacos and everything they’ve had to drink, there appears to be some pretty serious chemistry between Crystal and Kris. That’s when we decide to set these two lovebirds free and follow up the next day to find out what we missed. How was your experience and dinner at Lola 55? KRIS: It was nice. They were very accommodating. The drinks and food were good. CRYSTAL: The food was amazing. We tried a bunch of tacos, they tasted great. Pretty much all of them were to die for. We also had a Caesar salad, and their bread on the side for their croutons was probably my favorite thing that we tried. What did you eat and drink there? KRIS: They pretty much went all out and gave us a taste of everything. CRYSTAL: I know we tried a bunch of tacos: chicken tacos, pork belly and a veggie, I think it was cauliflower. To drink, he had a tequila mule and I had an Indian something? It was a strawberry, basil, tequila drink and it was really good.
FROM TOP: The Indian Summer cocktail, made with tequila, a strawberryhoney cucumber blend, lemon and cilantro; Lola 55’s Caesar salad, known as Lola’s Caesar; Lola’s Baja-style fish taco.
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Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after dinner? KRIS: We went out to a popular bar in her
neighborhood. We had drinks and danced a little bit. CRYSTAL: He has never really explored San Diego very much because he just moved here not too long ago. I live in Pacific Beach, so we went over to Mavericks Beach Club to check it out. It was pretty much going off. We had a couple drinks and he dropped me off at home in the Uber, and he went home. When did you get home? KRIS: I’m not sure, to be honest. I actually didn’t look at my phone all night. CRYSTAL: I think we probably got home at midnight. Was there a kiss or romantic exchange? KRIS: I’ve been very open in my interviews, so I’m going to respectfully decline that one. CRYSTAL: I don’t really kiss and tell. Maybe he’ll tell you. What’s the funniest thing that happened during the date? KRIS: Probably go with the fact that some random guy walked up to us at the bar and he told us we both looked great, and then he would just not stop complimenting me to her. CRYSTAL: We did get talked to a lot at Mavericks. People wanted to know why we were all dressed up. People would randomly buy us shots. That was kind of cool, kind of awkward. I guess you could say it was funny because we were doing that yoga where we where he had to hold me up in the air basically, so that was kind of funny and embarrassing.
LOVE | BLIND DATE
What was the best part of the date and why? KRIS: I’d say the times we had to sit around and actually have a conversation before we got distracted with pictures or food. The natural part of the communication. CRYSTAL: I think the yoga was the best part because I had never tried it before and it was super fun. I didn’t think I could do it, because I’m not flexible, but apparently, you don’t have to be that flexible to do that yoga. That was the best part. What was the worst part of the date and why? KRIS: I don’t know, I would say I quite enjoyed myself. It was my first blind date and it was also my first date since I’ve been in San Diego, and she was a sweetheart, so there’s nothing bad I can really say. CRYSTAL: I don’t think anything was bad. I really liked the yoga. The food in the restaurant was really 96
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good. We had good drinks, so I can’t really complain about anything. Will there be a second date? Why or why not? KRIS: We just met, so maybe we could meet to play some bar games or something, as that was our original intention as of yesterday evening. But we haven’t talked about a second date yet. CRYSTAL: You know, I think that he wants to take me out on a second one. He asked me out on a second date when he first picked me up. He asked me what I was doing on Saturday when we were driving to yoga. But I don’t know if there’ll be a second date. If he were to ask, I might say yes, depending on what he wants to do. What’s one thing your date really should know before going on another date? KRIS: Nothing, she must do this all
the time. (Laughs.) She’s a natural. CRYSTAL: He did really well. He’s a good talker, he flirts well. He’s a good dater.
Want to go on an unforgettable adventure — and maybe find the love of your life — all while entertaining PACIFIC’s loyal readers? Email lifescool@pacificsandiego.com
What could have made this date better? KRIS: More time at the beginning to talk, instead of getting thrown right into the activity. CRYSTAL: I don’t think so. I had a really good time. I normally don’t go on awesome dates like that. I can’t complain. It was good.
with a short bio, some photos of yourself
Anything else you’d like to add? KRIS: I think everyone should try new experiences outside of their comfort zone, whether it be a blind date or anything else. You never know. You might enjoy it more than you ever thought you would. CRYSTAL: I would recommend this to my friends. I had a lot of fun. I think it would be fun for any of my friends to do it.
SPECIAL THANKS TO AND PROMOTIONAL CONSIDERATION FROM:
and a few words about what you’re hoping for in a date.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Daters’ answers may have been edited for length and clarity.
EPIC LIMO 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com AERIAL REVOLUTION 619.220.4909, aerialrevolution.com LOLA 55 619.542.9155, lola55catering.com MATCHMAKER JESSICA PELLIGRA matchandmagic.com
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