Animalon
When: Through March
Where: Finca Altozano, Valle De Guadalupe, Baja, Mexico
San Diego’s Mexican food scene is missing its native son and chef Javier Plascencia, who’s focusing all of his attention on his restaurants in Mexico right now. But this is the event to go check in on him; plus, you’ve been promising yourself that you’d finally go check out Valle de Guadalupe, Baja’s awesome wine region. Finca Altozano is Javier’s vineyard-perched grill restaurant. And in the middle of the property, there is a massive, 100-year-old oak tree where they’ve built decks and hung lights and made a magical, Swiss Family Robinson-style hangout. Animalon will be a series of multi-course dinners under this oak tree, with candles and music. I’ve slept under that oak tree. It’s phenomenal. Go.
Brunch Bash
When: March 18, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Estancia La Jolla, 9700 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA
It’s a not-so-well-kept secret that San Diego Magazine throws some of the best parties around. Brunch Bash, now in its third year, is no exception. There will be Bloody Marys. Pancakes. All you can eat donuts. Lots of pretty people. Participating restaurants include A.R. Valentien, Farmer & the Seahorse, Herb & Eatery, Galaxy Taco, Herringbone La Jolla, Searsucker Del Mar, and more. This event will sell out, so you’d be wise to get your tickets early.
Beer Fest
When: March 18, Noon–4 p.m.
Where: Dive, Harrah’s Resort Southern California, 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Funner, CA
Still shocked that there’s a real town called Funner, California? So am I. What a genius marketing campaign (with David Hasselhoff as the “mayor,” no less). Harrah’s has really made in-roads as one of the best places to let loose by a pool in Southern California. And this event will bring most of the best San Diego brewers, including Lost Abbey, SR 76, Mother Earth, Stone, Port, Modern Times, Pizza Port, etc. Who cares if your summer body hasn’t yet arrived from Amazon? It’s a beer fest.
Cost: $40 for unlimited tastings
Best Food and Drink Events in February and March
Brunch Bash | Photo: E3 Photography
