The Dish: July 24–30

Roma Norte Brings Technique-Driven Cocktails and Mexico City Flair to San Diego

Roma Norte, a new bar concept by the acclaimed team behind Puesto and Marisi, brings the electric energy, hospitality and world-class cocktail culture of Mexico City to San Diego’s nightlife scene.

Located next door to Puesto at The Headquarters in Seaport Village, Roma Norte – which makes the point that it’s ‘not a speakeasy’ – brings new nightlife attitude to this part of the city.

Taste the Island Life: Blanco Cocina + Cantina Now Open!

Hey foodies! If you’re looking for a new spot to indulge your taste buds, check out Blanco Cocina + Cantina on Coronado Island. This vibrant eatery is all about bringing fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine to the heart of San Diego.

Whether you’re craving classic tacos, mouth-watering enchiladas, or a refreshing margarita, Blanco Cocina+Cantina has got you covered.

The lively atmosphere, complete with colorful decor and a welcoming vibe, makes it the perfect place for a fun night out or a casual lunch with friends. Don’t miss their signature dishes like the grilled street corn or the decadent churros for dessert!

With its prime location on beautiful Coronado Island, Blanco Cocina + Cantina is not just a meal, it’s an experience. So, gather your friends, head over to Blanco, and get ready for a fiesta of flavors that will leave you coming back for more.

Read more about it here.

Crack into Crème Brûlée Day: San Diego’s Sweetest Spots

Saturday, July 27 is National Crème Brûlée Day, and we’ve got the scoop on where to indulge in San Diego. From classic to creative, these local gems are serving up crème brûlée that’ll make you weak at the knees.

Arely’s French Bakery

Craving something a little different? Arely’s French Bakery in Clairemont is shaking things up with their Pistachio Crème Brûlée. But here’s the catch—this specialty treat is only available Friday through Sunday. Trust us, you’ll want to mark your calendar for this one.

Fun fact: Arely’s is celebrating 20 years of family-owned deliciousness. Two decades of bringing French-inspired goodies to San Diego? Now that’s something to celebrate!

Bleu Bohème

Step into Bleu Bohème and you might just forget you’re in San Diego. This spot is serving up major Parisian vibes—perfect for savoring their house-made crème brûlée.

At $12.95, their classic vanilla custard topped with that irresistible sugar crust is a steal. It’s a taste of French culinary tradition that’ll transport you straight to the City of Light.

Giddy Up for Sandbar’s Industry Day: Del Mar Races Get a Beach Twist

It’s time to swap your flip-flops for fancy hats—Sandbar‘s throwing an epic Industry Day at the Del Mar Races on Thursday, July 25.

For a cool $40, you’re in for a treat that’ll make your Thursday feel like a mini-vacation. You’ll hop on a party bus (yeah, you heard that right) from Sandbar in Mission Beach straight to Del Mar Racetrack, fueled up with complimentary drinks and breakfast burritos.

Don’t miss your chance to play dress-up, place your bets, and party like a VIP without breaking the bank.

Space is limited and will fill up fast, so contact [email protected] to grab your spot now.

Bling and Brew: Haus of Serotonin Pops Up at Spill the Beans

Get ready for a Sunday that’ll perk you up in more ways than one! Spill the Beans is teaming up with Haus of Serotonin for a permanent jewelry pop-up that’s sure to add some sparkle to your weekend.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, July 28, from 8 AM to 3 PM at Spill the Beans’ Mission Valley spot. Trust us, this isn’t your average coffee run—it’s a chance to sip your favorite brew while getting decked out in some seriously cool bling.

And here’s a little nugget for all you Comic-Con fans out there: In honor of the epic event, they’re offering special access to a Minion “Evil Eye” charm. How’s that for a conversation starter?

Our take? This is the perfect excuse to treat yourself to some new jewelry and a killer cup of joe. It’s like brunch but with better accessories. So round up your crew and make a day of it—because nothing says Sunday Funday like caffeinated creativity!

Peruvian Flavors Hit La Jolla: Pepino’s Pop-Up Sundays

There’s a new culinary kid on the block, and they’re about to spice up your August Sundays in La Jolla. Pepino, a Peruvian-inspired eatery and bakeshop, is rolling out pop-ups that’ll have your taste buds doing the salsa.

The mastermind behind this flavor fiesta? Chef Sebastian Becerra, who’s cut his teeth in Michelin-starred kitchens. Now he’s bringing that top-tier expertise to dishes that’ll make your brunch game look weak.

We’re talking Shakshuka on Toast that’ll make your eggs Benedict jealous, Peruvian breakfast burritos that’ll transport you to Lima, and Dulce de Leche stuffed muffins that… well, do we really need to explain why those are amazing?

These pop-ups are like a sneak peek before Pepino opens its first real-deal location. It’s like getting backstage passes to the hottest new food show in town!

Stay updated with weekly menus by signing up for Pepino’s newsletter and following their Instagram. Plus, support their Kickstarter campaign launching on August 1. Who knows? You might score some tasty rewards!

More details can be found here.

Sip, Shop, and Save the Planet at NOVO Brazil

Hey, eco-warriors and fashion fiends! Get ready to multitask like a pro—NOVO Brazil Brewing Company is serving up a Sunday that’ll quench your thirst for both style and sustainability.

On Sunday, July 28, NOVO’s Mission Valley sports pub is transforming into a green fashion haven. They’re teaming up with Positive Phee, the wizards of repurposed clothing, for a “Sip & Style” extravaganza that’ll make Mother Nature proud.

Here’s the lowdown: From 1 PM to 4 PM, you’ll get to play fashion designer with a bag full of curated ladies’ wear, shoes, and accessories. And because shopping is thirsty work, NOVO’s got you covered with your choice of craft beer or NOVA kombucha. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with better drinks!

Tickets are going for $75 here, but here’s a little insider tip—use the promo code “NOVO” and you’ll score $10 off. That’s basically like finding money in your vintage jeans pocket!

Raise Your Glass to Del Mar: Georges at the Cove’s Racing-Inspired Cocktails

La Jolla’s cocktail scene just got a thoroughbred upgrade! Georges at the Cove has unleashed a quintet of liquid masterpieces to celebrate the Del Mar racing season, and trust us, these drinks are running circles around the competition.

Ten of Georges’ top-notch bartenders went head-to-head in a spirited showdown, partnering with Buffalo Trace Bourbon to craft the ultimate racing season sippers. After a photo-finish judging session, five stellar concoctions made it to the winner’s circle.

Ready for the lineup?

You’ve got Jeremey Hansen’s “Bee Trippin,'” a honey-lemon-mint medley that’ll have you buzzing with delight. Cesar Flores is bringing Kentucky charm to California with his classic “Buffalo Julep.” For the sweet-toothed among us, Ditri Zykaj’s “The Track” blends biscotti and vanilla liqueurs for a dessert-in-a-glass experience.

Craving something fruity? Irvin Corral’s “Unbridled Joy” features a garden-fresh strawberry-rhubarb shrub that’ll put a spring in your step. And if you’re feeling fancy, Oscar McCauley’s “Victory Lap” with its lavender honey and St. Germain is pure sophistication in a glass.

The best part? You can savor these race day-inspired libations while soaking in those million-dollar views from the Ocean Terrace bar. It’s like being at the track but with better drinks and no risk of losing your shirt!

Saddle Up for the Hoppy Hoedown at The Original 40 Brewing Company!

Grab your boots and saddle up, San Diego! Original 40 Brewing Company is about to turn North Park into the Wild West for one rockin’ Sunday. On July 28, from 2 PM to 6 PM, this brewpub is hosting a Hoppy Hoedown that’ll make you forget you’re in the heart of the city.

And listen up, fashion cowboys—the legendary Rancher Hat Bar from Scottsdale and Folsom is making its only San Diego pit stop this year. You’ll get to craft your own custom cowboy or trucker hat. Talk about a souvenir that’ll turn heads!

But wait, there’s more! The Original 40 is rustling up a special menu that’ll have your taste buds doing the two-step. We’re talking Western Cheeseburgers, finger-lickin’ BBQ ribs, and onion rings that’ll make your eyes water (in a good way).

And because no hoedown is complete without some liquid courage, they’re offering $5 pints of Mexican lager all afternoon.

Want to capture the moment? Mosey on over to the photo station, complete with hay bales for that authentic ranch feel. And don’t worry about the soundtrack—they’ll be spinning country tunes faster than a tumbleweed in a tornado.

For those looking to go all-in on the Western theme, Black&Grey Atelier will be offering flash tattoos (temporary ones, we hope!), while Mila North Park is bringing the heat with Western duds and boots.

So dust off your Stetson, practice your line dancing, and get ready to party like it’s 1899. The Original 40’s Hoppy Hoedown is gonna be wilder than a bronco on burrito night!

Le Parfait Paris Brings Olympic-Sized Flavors to San Diego!

Can’t make it to Paris for the 2024 Olympics? No problème! Le Parfait Paris is bringing the City of Light to America’s Finest City, and trust us, your taste buds are in for a gold medal performance!

This family-run bakery is serving up slices of Parisian heaven right here in San Diego. We’re talking macarons so delicate they’d make a French judge weep, croissants flakier than your ex’s promises, and crepes that’ll make you want to throw on a beret and start saying “sacrebleu!”

But hold onto your berets because Le Parfait is going for gold with their special Olympic offering: the Eiffel Tower Danish! Available at all six locations, this pastry is more photogenic than the actual Eiffel Tower (and definitely more delicious). It’s the perfect fuel for your armchair Olympic marathon-watching!

Whether you’re a die-hard Olympian (of eating, that is) or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life (like butter, lots of butter), Le Parfait Paris is your ticket to a Parisian getaway without the jet lag.

So gather your Team USA (or Team Treat Yo’self), and head to Le Parfait Paris. From leisurely breakfasts to specialty sandwiches that’ll make your lunch break feel like a Champs-Élysées stroll, they’ve got you covered.

Remember, calories don’t count when they’re consumed in the spirit of international sportsmanship. That’s just science, people. Or at least, that’s what we’re telling ourselves as we reach for that third macaron.

Knockout Bites and Fights: Watch UFC 304 at The Smoking Gun!

The Smoking Gun in the Gaslamp is about to serve up a double whammy of flavor and fury on Saturday, July 27. Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a Comic Con warrior looking to trade superheroes for super heavyweights, this is where you want to be for UFC 304.

But let’s talk about the real heavyweight champion here—the food! The Smoking Gun’s rolling out some new menu items that’ll have you tapping out… to your taste buds.

Get ready to rumble with their Street Corn Skillet: a sizzling skillet loaded with corn, slathered in toasted garlic aioli, sprinkled with cotija cheese, drizzled with Valentina Hot Sauce, and topped with micro cilantro. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth!

And if you’re looking for a true knockout, their Smoked Brisket Sandwich is entering the ring. We’re talking a half-pound of prime brisket that’s been smoked to perfection, topped with pickled onion, tomato, and baby spinach, all hugged by sourdough bread and served with a side of BBQ au jus.

So, whether you’re cheering for the underdog or rooting for the champ, The Smoking Gun’s got you covered with big screens, big flavors, and an atmosphere that’s more electric than a post-fight interview. Don’t miss this epic collision of cuisine and combat!

Sunset Sippin’ in Style: The Shores’ Summer Cocktail Spectacular!

The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla just dropped a summer cocktail menu that’ll make your taste buds do the beach boogie!

Picture this: You’re perched at The Shores, the sun’s doing that magical golden hour thing over La Jolla, and you’ve got a front-row seat to the Pacific’s endless blue. Now, all you need is the perfect drink in hand. Well, buckle up, buttercup, because The Shores has got you covered!

Let’s dive into this liquid treasure chest, shall we?

• Coastal Cooler: It’s like a spa day in a glass! Vodka, cucumber, lime, mint, and soda. So refreshing, you might forget you’re not actually in the ocean.
• Shores Surfrider: Rum, coconut, strawberry, hibiscus, and lemonade. It’s like a tropical vacation had a baby with a summer blockbuster.
• Queens Tide: Gin, lemon, hibiscus, and egg foam. It’s so fancy, you’ll want to extend your pinky while sipping.
• Burning Passion: A smoky, fruity margarita with mezcal, lime, passionfruit, and hibiscus. It’s like a beach bonfire in liquid form!
• Blazin’ Beach Breeze: Reposado, jalapeno, prickly pear, lime, and agave. Warning: May cause spontaneous salsa dancing.
• Cady Ranch: Casamigos Blanco, Grand Marnier, lime, and Topo Chico. It’s like the little black dress of cocktails—simple, classic, and always a good choice.

They’ve also got the Tiki Tiki (it’s so nice, they named it twice), La Jolla Lemonade (because regular lemonade is so last season), and the Amoroso (it’ll make you fall in love… with cocktails).

And if you’re more of a wine or beer person, don’t worry! They’ve got rotating wines, craft drafts, and bottled beers that’ll pair perfectly with their California Baja-inspired menu.

Check out the full drink and cocktail list here.

Rumi & Revelry: Wormwood’s Poetic Feast for the Senses!

Hey there, culture vultures and poetry lovers! Get ready to tickle your taste buds and tantalize your mind because Wormwood’s Secret Garden is about to transform into a Persian paradise. That’s right, we’re talking Rumi Nights, baby!

Here’s what’s on the menu for this mystical soirée:

• A four-course dinner that’ll make your taste buds recite poetry. We’re talking flavors from the East that’ll have you saying “Omar Khayyam who?”
• Live poetry readings. Because nothing pairs better with baklava than a little “The wound is the place where the Light enters you.”
• Live music that’ll transport you straight to ancient Persia. (Time machine not included, but the effect is pretty darn close.)
• Presence practices. Because nothing says “living in the moment” like trying to remember which fork to use for your third course.

Choose your adventure:

• Early bird special: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Perfect for those who like their enlightenment before bedtime.
• Night owl delight: 7:45 PM to 9:45 PM. For when you want your spiritual awakening with a side of starlight.

Seats are limited, so book yours now here!

Gelato Alert: Venchi’s Brings a Taste of Italy to San Diego!

Venchi‘s first SoCal Chocogelateria (yes, that’s a real word, and we’re obsessed with it) has just opened its doors at Westfield UTC, right next to Nordstrom. It’s like Italy decided to pack up its best flavors and send them on vacation to sunny San Diego!

Now, let’s paint you a picture of chocolate heaven:

• Imagine walking in and being greeted by a Chocoviar wall. That’s right, a WALL of chocolate. It’s like Willy Wonka went upscale!
• Gelato bar? Check. And we’re talking the real deal here. Smooth, creamy, and more authentic than your nonna’s secret recipes.
• Chocolate bars and gift boxes galore. Perfect for treating yourself or making someone’s day (or year).

But here’s the kicker—Venchi doesn’t mess around with ingredients. We’re talking premium Piedmont Hazelnuts and certified cocoa. No artificial nastiness here, just pure, unadulterated deliciousness.

And if that wasn’t enough, they’re also serving up Italian coffees, hot chocolate that’ll make you forget about all other hot chocolates, and crepes that’ll transport you straight to a Parisian street corner.

The best part? The staff know their stuff. So, if you can’t decide between the 57 flavors of gelato (we may have exaggerated, but there are a lot), they’ve got your back.

So whether you’re a chocoholic, a gelato enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life, Venchi is your new happy place. It’s like a mini Italian vacation, minus the jet lag and with 100% more chocolate.