TASTE BUDZ

If there’s one thing that North County residents enjoy more than the beach, it’s the various cuisine, beverages, and sweet treats throughout San Diego. Here, we offer a taste of some local flavor.

fare & festivity

Uncorked

The fi fth annual Uncorked: San Diego Wine Festival will be held on Saturday, March 28 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Embarcadero Marina Park North, where attendees can sip over 200 wines and ciders from across the globe, and enjoy music, food trucks, and more, all benefi ting local nonprofi t Urban Surf 4 Kids. Find more information and tickets at www.uncorkedwinefestivals.com/ uncorked-san-diego-wine-fest.

on the map

Mexican MODERN

Tocaya Organica recently opened its doors at One Paseo, serving up modern Mexican fare using locally sourced organic ingredients. The health-driven menu includes salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, and quesadillas – everything starts vegan, with add-in options like fresh meat or fi sh – along with specialty margaritas, agua fresca, and horchata.

Slow Smoked

Two years after its founding, Smokin J’s BBQ now has a permanent home in Old Poway Village. Everything at the Kansas City-style barbecue joint is made in-house from scratch, including brisket, pulled pork, burnt ends, baby back ribs, pecan pie, and even the signature barbecue sauce. Check it out at 14035 Midland Rd. Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.