PACIFIC San Diego Magazine, December 2019 by Pacific San Diego Magazine

NEW YEAR’S EVE ROUNDUP Þ HOLIDAY PARADES AND PARTIES Þ WHERE TO EAT ON CHRISTMAS

OUR GIFT GUIDE FEATURING SAN DIEGO BOUTIQUES AND PRODUCTS

Shop Small Succulent wreath made exclusively for PACIFIC by Green Gardens Nursery

December 2019

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

OUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY MOVIES Þ A VERY ICY BLIND DATE Þ WISDOM FROM NICK OFFERMAN

MIX IT UP IN SAN DIEGO WITH THE MASTER OF MALT

DON’T BE A DRUNKEN MONKEY. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

MIX IT UP IN SAN DIEGO WITH THE MASTER OF MALT

DON’T BE A DRUNKEN MONKEY. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

EDIT OR’S N OTE

A Very SoCal Kind Of Holiday

appy holidays, everyone! I’m a Hanukkah celebrator from SoCal/ Baja married to a Christmas person from New England, so this time of year is a jumble of traditions and activities. We spin dreidels while listening to the Christmas radio station. We binge on both Christmas cookies and latkes. There’s usually a Patriots game on as we light Hanukkah candles. And at some point, tequila and mariachi music make appearances. But the one universal thing we share — perhaps that all of us share, whether we celebrate anything or not — is the holiday shopping experience. So that’s why our December issue is all about shopping. Instead of heading to a mall, though, we created the Shop Small Gift Guide that features only San Diego boutiques, products and artisans. Don’t get me wrong, I love a mall. A mall is where you get your essential holiday gifts: your pajama sets, kitchen gadgets and celebrity makeup palettes. It’s where you pose with Santa, hear nonstop Christmas music and drink Gingerbread Lattes out of red Starbucks cups. But shopping at small stores not only helps independent businesses, it’s also a way to explore different neighborhoods and meet people in your community. That’s actually what happened to me when I was putting together our cover photo shoot. I really wanted to have a succulent wreath on the cover as a representation of Southern California and its blended traditions. But getting that wreath wasn’t so easy. I reached out to several places, but nothing came through and time was running out. Then, a friend told me to check out Green Gardens Nursery in Pacific Beach. Turns out Green Gardens is only a few miles from my house, and when I walked in for the first time, I discovered a mini wonderland of plants and gifts. Green Gardens has been in business for over 40 years and focuses on organic gardening. Everyone there was so friendly and the employees knew customers by name. With just a few days’ notice, in-house designer Christine Mack created a succulent wreath exclusively for PACIFIC. (Fun fact: you can bring an empty bucket or pot and, for a fee, they will fill it with succulents.) We got our wreath cover, and I met a whole new part of my community because of it. This spirit of discovery is what I hope you’ll feel when browsing our gift guide. Enjoy the season, and see you in 2020.

Nina Garin

nina@pacificsandiego.com

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

GREEN GA RDENS NURSERY

Green Gardens Nursery is a unique Pacific Beach spot that’s been in business for over 40 years. During Christmas you can find everything from trees and poinsettias to ornaments and other small gifts. Find them on Instagram at @greengardenssd or @greengardensnursery on Facebook.

It’s a Gift

Volume #13 | Issue #12 | December 2019

Actually, it’s a bunch of prizes

Register to win tickets to these December events and more at pacificsandiego.com/contests. Life’s cool in San Diego. Here’s proof:

Hug it Out You probably remember actor Jeremy Piven as Ari Gold from Entourage. Now get to know him as a standup comedian when you enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to his San Diego performance. Dec. 5 at American Comedy Co.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Nina Garin

MANAGING EDITOR

Jennifer Ianni

STAFF WRITER COPY EDITOR ART DIRECTORS DESIGNERS

PRODUCTION/ DESIGN DIRECTOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Make a Toast Raise a glass to the holiday season and sample sips and bites from over 20 restaurants, bars and boutiques at the Toast of Gaslamp. Participating spots include Tocaya Organica, Tin Roof, Burger Lounge and more. Enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to this tasty event.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dec. 14 in the Gaslamp

Dec. 31 at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Anita L. Arambula, Gregory Schmidt Michael Domine, Javier Gonzalez, Mark Opriska, Tyler Rau, Anthony Tarantino Michael Price Michael Benninger, Lisa Deaderick, James Hebert, Laura McVicker, Scott McDonald, Peter Rowe K.C. Alfred, Misael Virgen, Lauren Wilson

Paul Ingegneri

SALES MANAGER

Katie Musolf

CAMPAIGN COORDINATOR

Ring in 2020 in style at Tokyo Nights at the Hard Rock, featuring 15 DJs and 25 bars throughout the hotel. Enter for a chance to win a pair of Fast Pass + Champagne tickets to the party of the (new) year.

Monica Hodes-Smail

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

MULTIMEDIA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Pop the Champs like a Champ

Sara Butler

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

John Vaccaro, Mindy Anderson Pamela Razo Greg Johannsen

Life’s Cool. 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.

pacificsandiego.com

@PACIFICSD 619.293.1945

A subsidiary of The San Diego Union-Tribune

NEWYEAR’SEVE

DECEMBER 31, 2019 Make the last night of the year the best of the holiday season at Jamul Casino! We can’t wait to welcome the new year with you. Special Buffets • Prix Fixe Dinners Free Play for All Players

At noon on the dot, all guests playing slots and table games will get $20 in free play!

Live Entertainment & Dancing 80z All-Stars and B.I.G. at JIVe Lounge DJ Mike2Bless at Tony Gwynn’s

FREE ADMISSION

jamulcasinosd.com/NYE2020 20 minutes from downtown San Diego • 94 to Campo Road 619.315.2250 • 14145 Campo Road, Jamul, CA 91935 • jamulcasinosd.com Must be 21 or over. NEED HELP? Call 1.800.GAMBLER (426-2537). Please play responsibly.

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2019

CURRENTS 14: Twelve.Nineteen December events calendar 34: Joking Around December stand-up comedy shows 38: Shop Small San Diego A guide to local shops for all your gifting needs

56: In the Arts Meet the people in San Diego’s arts community

84: We’re With the Band December local band spotlight

58: Movies Our favorite holiday movies

86: Take a Spin December EDM + DJ performances

50: Art Beat December gallery + exhibition openings

TASTE 62: Dinner & Blitzen Skip cooking this Christmas and celebrate Santa’s arrival at these ﬁne restaurants

LOVE 88: Ice to Meet You Blind daters skate around the edges of romance

54: In the Wings December shows and stage performances

66: Take it From the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here

PULSE 46: Good Inﬂuencer Have a glass of wine with Arielle Meads

GROOVE 72: Sound Decisions December concert calendar

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

ON THE COVER: A succulent wreath made exclusively for PACIFIC by Green Gardens Nursery in Paciﬁc Beach. Find more gift options in our Shop Small Gift Guide on page 38. (Photo by K.C. Alfred) ON THIS PAGE: Dancer and choreographer Geoff Gonzalez talks about #boysdancetoo and preparing for City Ballet’s Nutcracker season on page 56. (Photo by K.C. Alfred)

CURRENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING RIGHT NOW

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

12.2

So You Think You Can Dance Live! Balboa Theatre, Downtown sandiegotheatres.org The Emmy Award-winning show that reignited America’s fascination with dance celebrates the conclusion of its 16th season during this stop of its nationwide tour featuring the Top 10 ﬁnalists.

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

FOX BROADCASTING CO.

C URRENTS | EVENTS

11.29-12.31 MIRACLE ON 30TH

Polite Provisions, Normal Heights miraclepopup.com Normal Heights’ posh cocktail spot transforms into a winter wonderland serving cheekily named Christmas cocktails amid kitschy décor that’ll brighten the spirits of even the grouchiest Grinch.

RANDY SCHMIDT

11.25-12.31 SIPPIN’ SANTA POP-UP

The Grass Skirt, Paciﬁc Beach sippinsantapopup.com This temporary, Tiki-themed tavern welcomes guests to wet their whistles on wintry drinks including the rumbased Kris Kringle Colada and the Christmas Eve of Destruction.

NANCEE E. LEWIS

12.1 10TH ANNUAL SONO FEST & CHILI COOK-OFF

32nd & Thorn streets, North Park sonofestchilicookoff.com Forty local restaurants compete to create the city’s best chili while 24 purveyors of craft beverages provide refreshments, 30 merchants showcase their wares and local bands like The Creepy Creeps and The Amandas perform on three stages.

MELISSA HOM

12.6-7 DECEMBER NIGHTS

Balboa Park sandiego.gov/december-nights Featuring new light displays and inspirational choirs, this iconic, twoday extravaganza celebrates its 42nd anniversary. Guests will ﬁnd access to an endless amount of international food as well as exhibits, entertainers and other attractions at many of the park’s museums. 16

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.7 JINGLE BELL RUN

Liberty Station, Point Loma arthritis.org Do your part to ﬁnd a cure for arthritis at this holidaythemed 5K that encourages runners to dress up in their North-Pole best. HAYNE PA LMOUR IV

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

RAMEN HOT SPOT San Diego's Best Restaurants 2017, 2018, & 2019: Readers Pick for Best Ramen - SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE Best of San Diego 2017, 2018, & 2019: Best Ramen Winner - SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT San Diego's Best of 2017 & 2018: /Noo /N oodl oo dle dl e House Hous Ho use us e Best Japanese Restaurant & Pho/Noodle - SAN DIEGO UNION TRIBUNE

VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS! North Park | Hillcrest | East Village | Convoy | Mercury

C URRENTS | E V E N TS

12.7 28TH ANNUAL RED NOSE RUN

Del Mar Beach, Del Mar Beach, therednoserun.com Choose to run either 3K or 5K on this Fido-friendly fundraiser followed by drinks and bites at the picturesque Poseidon Restaurant.

BILL WECHTER

12.7 WINTER WONDERLAND FESTIVAL

Lyric Court, Escondido artcenter.org Scamper in real snow, create winter-themed crafts and rub noses with live reindeer as the North Pole takes over the heart of Escondido with carolers, stilt walkers and new light installations among other decorations.

12.7 A JOHN WATERS CHRISTMAS

The Observatory, North Park observatorysd.com The director, comedian and artist famous for his cult ﬁlms brings his explicitly irreverent style of storytelling to San Diego for one night. 18

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

HAYNE PA LMOUR IV

12.7-8 SAN DIEGO GAY MEN’S CHORUS JINGLE

Balboa Theatre, Downtown, sdgmc.org Join 200 of San Diego’s most talented singers, dancers and musicians as they present a family-friendly holiday show featuring traditional favorites and modern classics.

The Metropolitan 165 6th Avenue #2402, San Diego CA 92101 This stunning Penthouse at The Metropolitan has all the amenities of the Omni Hotel, but with a private entrance! Soaring ten-foot ceilings, hard surface flooring, large windows for natural light are just a few of the amazing features! Views of Petco Park, Coronado Island and the city are breathtaking during the San Diego days and of course the San Diego nights!

CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN LIVE A LUXURIOUS, HOTEL STYLE LIFE IN DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO!

WelcometoSanDiego.com 619-356-3099 DRE 01991628

C URRENTS | EVENTS 12.7-8

Queen Bee Market

Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, thequeenbeemarket.com

This urban-style artisan market includes more than 100 local and national vendors specializing in handmade and vintage accessories, along with clothing, home décor, furniture and more.

MEGAN PLENGE

12.7-8 MAKERS ARCADE HOLIDAY FAIR

Port Pavilion @ Broadway Pier, Downtown makersarcade.com Meet makers, listen to live music and express yourself at the make-and-take craft center during this unique event that includes scrumptious bites, a free photo booth and ﬁnely crafted cocktails.

12.12 TASTE ‘N’ TINIS

12.8 VISTA WINTERFEST 2019

Along Main Street, Vista vistachamber.chambermaster.com Enjoy holiday carolers, a horse-drawn carriage and colorful ballet dancers at this free, family-friendly fete that also includes a seasonal marketplace, wintertime movies and a roaming mariachi band. 20

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

GETTY IMAGES

Throughout Hillcrest fabuloushillcrest.com Shop till you drop during this self-guided sip ’n’ stroll in which many Uptown restaurants serve samples of signature dishes while local boutiques mix holiday martinis and other festive cocktails for customers.

12.13 STRAIGHT UP WITH STASSI LIVE FEAT. BEAU CLARK & TAYLOR STRECKER

12.13-14 LA MESA HOLIDAY IN THE VILLAGE

The Magnolia, El Cajon magnoliasandiego.com Television personality, fashion blogger and author Stassi Schroeder discusses TV, culture and celebrity gossip with her guests as the Vanderpump Rules star records her hit podcast, Straight Up With Stassi.

Throughout La Mesa Village lamesavillageassociation.org Get into the holiday spirit by ambling through historic downtown La Mesa while enjoying live music, craft merchants and occasional ﬁre pits where you can warm your weary bones.

12.14 POWAY CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK Old Poway Park poway.org Travel back to a simpler time this holiday season with steam locomotives, horse-drawn hayrides, a petting zoo and live entertainment reminiscent of an earlier era.

RICK NOCON

12.14 TOAST OF GASLAMP

Throughout the Gaslamp Quartergaslamp.org Raise a glass to the heart of downtown during this decadent evening that includes treats from 20 of the Gaslamp’s top restaurants complemented by scorching deals at 10 of the area’s most desirable retailers.

12.14 SAN DIEGO SANTA RUN

Garnet Avenue, Paciﬁc Beach sandiegorunningco.com Choose from the competitive Speedy Santa Mile, the kid-friendly Santa’s Elves’ Mile or the pet-friendly Santa’s Little Helper Mile, then put your drink ticket to good use at the post-race party before the PB Holiday Parade.

12.19 MERRY-ACHI CHRISTMAS

Balboa Theatre, Downtown, sandiegotheatres.org The 13-piece mariachi ensemble Sol de Mexico performs traditional carols with a Mexican twist in this joyous celebration that fuses the holiday spirit with facets of culture from both sides of the border. @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

C URRENTS | EVENTS

JOHN GIBBINS

12.21 SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY HALF MARATHON

From Penasquitos Drive to Torrey Pines State Beach sandiegoholidayhalf.com Burn hundreds of holiday calories on this 13.1-mile course that follows the bike path along State Route 56 and includes a 711-foot drop in elevation.

12.26 PORT OF SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY BOWL PARADE

North Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, holidaybowl.com Join 100,000 street-side spectators as one of the country’s biggest balloon parades unites world-class marching bands and entertaining drill teams in a sea of ﬂoats and inﬂatables.

K.C. ALFRED

12.27 SDCCU HOLIDAY BOWL

SDCCU Stadium, Mission Valley, holidaybowl.com Two Division-I football teams face off after a heart-pounding pregame featuring marching bands, parachute jumpers and a football-ﬁeld-sized American Flag. 22

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

LOU B ALDANZA

12.28 MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS

San Diego Civic Theatre, Downtown, broadwaysd.com Experience the magic of Christmas in this spellbinding new holiday production featuring Cirque artists from around the world performing to timeless holiday tunes.

REAL ESTATE MARKET WATCH

Carmel Valley

Stunning 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home on largest corner lot of the desirable Portico community! Open and bright ﬂoorplan features high ceilings, tile and wood ﬂoors, modern kitchen with island & breakfast bar, neutral color palette, abundant storage, palatial master retreat with 2 walk-in closets, marble counters/shower, separate tub & view balcony, laundry room and 2-car garage. Great outdoor entertaining space with front patio and large paved backyard patio area with low maintenance landscaping surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views! Wonderful neighborhood with amenities near shopping, dining, award winning schools and easy freeway access! $1,149,900.

6194 Blue Dawn Trail San Diego, CA 92130.

SAN DIEGO MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 73 # of homes sold: 60 Highest price: $9,850,000 Lowest price: $420,000 Average home price: $1,561,09

The San Diego housing market has continued to remain competitive. As we move into the holiday season, what traditionally is known as a slower time of the year for the real estate market, San Diego does not face the same slow down due to the more moderate climate. Interest rates have continued to remain at all-time lows with an increase in mortgage applications over the last few months as people are looking to make a purchase before the new year. This remains a great time to purchase or sell for both buyers & sellers.

MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI

MelissaTucci.com | Sold@MelissaTucci.com 1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116

619.787.6852

BRE#01380034

No. 1 ranked Coldwell Banker agent/broker and ofﬁcial real estate agent of the San Diego Padres.

C URRENTS | E V E N TS

Holiday Parades and Tree Lightings

12.6 CORONADO HOLIDAY PARADE

12.8 EAST VILLAGE HOLIDAY MARKET & TREE LIGHTING

Along Orange Avenue, Coronado coronadochamber.com Brighten up your yuletide season at this traditional hometown parade set to a soundtrack of carolers and offering one lucky family the opportunity to illuminate Star Pine, the community’s colossal conifer.

Quartyard, East Village eastvillagesandiego.com Shop a village of more than 100 vendors on 13th Street and stay for a special tree lighting ceremony. The event will also feature carolers, a visit from Santa and more, all within Quartyard.

12.7 LITTLE ITALY TREE LIGHTING AND CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

12.8 LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

Piazza della Famiglia, Little Italy littleitalysd.com Shop for gifts, ride in a horse-drawn carriage and behold the brilliance of Little Italy’s 25-foot-tall tree while traipsing past festive decor, listening to live music and stumbling upon seasonal surprises sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.

12.7 CHULA VISTA STARLIGHT PARADE

Memorial Park, Chula Vista starlightparade.com Bring the whole family to this holiday parade that includes real snow, an elfyourself station and pictures with St. Nick himself.

12.7 ENCINITAS HOLIDAY PARADE

Throughout the Village of La Jolla ljparade.com Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission with a “Christmas on the Moon” theme, this year’s parade through downtown La Jolla kicks off with an antique-aircraft ﬂyover before giving guests of a glimpse of the community’s clubs, groups and performers.

12.8 56TH ANNUAL NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE

Along University Avenue, North Park explorenorthpark.com Marching bands, vintage cars, creative ﬂoats and more bounce between Utah Street and Iowa Street during this yearly yuletide event.

12.14 PB HOLIDAY PARADE

Coast Highway 101, Encinitas encinitaschamber.com Schmooze your way onto one of the hundred-or-so ﬂoats or join the throngs of cheering spectators during this 62nd annual Coast Highway tradition that culminates with a tree-lighting ceremony and a cameo by Kris Kringle.

Garnet Avenue, Pacific Beach pacificbeach.org Following the neighborhood’s Santa Run, Garnet Avenue will remain closed as numerous community groups and Pacific Beach businesses strut their stuff in one of the city’s oldest holiday parades.

12.7 40TH ANNUAL OCEAN BEACH HOLIDAY PARADE

12.15 GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE

Along Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach obtowncouncil.org Following a theme of “Miracle on Newport Avenue” and featuring classic Woodies, VW Beetles and the Roller Derby Dolls, O.B.’s holiday parade is bound to bring out the neighborhood’s best.

MLK Promenade Park, Gaslamp Quarter, gaslamp.org Pet owners and their furry, feathered or scaled friends are invited to don costumes and compete for prizes in several categories during this playful romp through the Gaslamp Quarter.

HOWA RD LIPIN

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

C URRENTS | E V E N TS

Boat Parades

NELVIN C. CEPEDA

12.8 and 12.15 48TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS

Viewing areas around San Diego Bay sdparadeoﬂights.org Eighty lavishly decorated boats embrace this year’s theme of “Comic-Con on the Bay” as this time-honored holiday tradition dazzles 100,000 locals gathered around the bayfront. 26

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.14 MISSION BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS

Santa Clara Point, Mission Bay mbyc.org In this distinctly Californian celebration, an armada of vessels themed for the season cruises throughout the waters of Mission Bay.

12.14 OCEANSIDE PARADE OF LIGHTS

Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside visitoceanside.org Bring a blanket, a jacket and some cocoa to sip on while watching deckedout boats of all shapes and sizes in this seasonal seafaring celebration along O’side’s coast.

A$AP Ferg MadeinTYO, BAS DECEMBER 1

Me First and the Gimme Gimmes Glitter Wizard,

CASBAH PRESENTS

Masked Intruder

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DECEMBER 6

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DECEMBER 4

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DEC 4 • VOODOO ROOM

The Line Cutters

La Dispute DECEMBER 12

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DECEMBER 5

greyson chance DEC 5 • VOODOO ROOM

KIOZ PRESENTS

HELLYEAH DEEPFALL, Nonpoint

Who’s Bad

A Michael Jackson tribute Night DECEMBER 20

Lola Demure’s Burlesque & Variety Show

DEC 21 • VOODOO ROOM

Holiday Hangover Night 1 Strangelove, U2America, Duke, Still Ill DECEMBER 27

Holiday Hangover Night 2 The Cured, Careless Whisper, Arena, So Madonna DECEMBER 28

L.A. Guns

Enuff Z’Nuff, Little Caesar DECEMBER 30

JAMN 95.7 PRESENTS

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony G Blasian, Heat, Michael Gabriel DECEMBER 31

DECEMBER 17

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

C URRENTS | E V E N TS

San Diego Gulls Home Games Pechanga Arena San Diego, sandiegogulls.com

12.7 COLORADO EAGLES 12.11 GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS 12.17 GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS 12.20 SAN JOSE BARRACUDA 12.21 STOCKTON HEAT 12.28 ONTARIO REIGN CHADD CADY

San Diego Sockers Home Games

Pechanga Arena San Diego sdsockers.com

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.13 ONTARIO FURY 12.15 SOLES OF SONORA 12.22 TACOMA STARS 12.20 SOLES OF SONORA

CHADD CA DY

C URRENT S | EVENTS

New Year’s Eve Roundup

Celebrate the end of 2019 — and the decade — with these bashes, big and small, around San Diego. BY LAURA MCVICKER

12.30-31 OMFG NYE 2020

Pechanga Arena, Midway District, omfgnye.com Celebrate 2020 at this popular two-night party hosted by West Coast Raves. Headliners on Monday, Dec. 30, are Rezz and bass duo Slander; on New Year’s Eve dance to EDM giants Virtualself and Kayzo. (All other events happen on 12/31) 30

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

BIG NIGHT SAN DIEGO NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA

Hilton San Diego Bayfront, downtown, bignightsandiego.com The party boasts ballrooms for whatever you’re in the mood for — retro music, dance or house. But be sure to check out the many tribute bands including Robot Rok (Daft Punk), Arena (Duran Duran) and The Cured (The Cure). Your ticket also includes access to endless food and drink stations.

BOTTOMS UP NYE

Altitude Sky Lounge, downtown, altitudeskylounge.com You’ll get just what it sounds like with this party: bottomless drinks! Also up for grabs at this “party from the street to the sky”: all-you-can-eat gourmet dining stations, including a sushi bar and a chocolate fountain on hand plus dancing on the ﬁrst and 22nd ﬂoors.

New Year’s Eve with Klingande Omnia Nightclub, downtown, omniaclubs. com/sandiego French DJ and producer Klingande headlines the show at Omnia Nightclub during a full weekend of New Year’s festivities.

LAFAYETTE HOTEL’S ROARING 2020 S

OXFORD SOCIAL CLUB

GHASTLY AT BASSMNT

HARD ROCK HOTEL 2020

PARQ NIGHTCLUB’S BALL ON BROADWAY

BOYS NOIZE AND ELAX AT SPIN

Lafayette Hotel, North Park, lafayettehotelsd.com Another ﬂapper party to ring in the ’20s (the 2020s, that is). The Lafayette Hotel will transform into a Prohibitionera speakeasy, with live music, dancers and DJs. Hard Rock Hotel, downtown, hardrockhotelsd.com Tokyo Nights is the theme of this 2020 bash. You’ll ﬁnd seven rooms packed with DJs and dance music, and 25 bars throughout the hotel serving up champagne and other libations.

Oxford Social Club, downtown, theoxfordsd.com You’ll want to get dressed up for this sophisticated celebration that boasts DJs, gourmet food and plenty of Instagrammable moments.

Parq, downtown, parqsd.com Together with Five Group, this Parq party will feature ﬁve different rooms, each with a distinct musical experience. This popular party sells out each year, so get a jump on tickets.

Bassmnt, downtown, bassmntsd.com Arizona-born, California-based dubstep producer David Lee Crow rings in the New Year with a set that’s sure to include one of his six new singles.

Spin Nightclub, Midtown, spinnightclub.com Celebrate with popular dance DJ Boys Noize at this late-night party that goes until 4 a.m. Elax will also be spinning at this 21-and-up event. @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

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C URRENT S | C OM E DY

Joking Around

Look for these comedians getting laughs on local stages BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

12.14

NICK OFFERMAN

“

Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org

If you want to get with a lady of a higher quality, start throwing around the color ‘taupe.’ It’s quite magical.”

— Nick Offerman on American Ham

JAY L . CLENDENIN

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

C URRENT S | COMEDY 11.29-12.1 SINBAD

The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/ la-jolla Known for: Bold outﬁts, classic jokes, so many TV roles

12.13

Ian Edwards The Comedy Palace, thecomedypalace.com

12.1 ADAM CAROLLA

Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Known for: Podcasts, The Man Show, free speech advocate

11.29-12.1 AMIR KABIRI

Pechanga Resort Casino, pechanga.com Known for: Observational humor, stories about growing up in the South as “the only Middle Eastern kid in school”

WILLY SANJUAN

12.4 JAY & SILENT BOB REBOOT ROADSHOW

TROY CONRAD

Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org Known for: Clerks, being stoned

12.5-7 JEREMY PIVEN

The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com Known for: Entourage, recent pivot to standup

KIRK MCCOY

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

“

Trump is our president. People are upset, there’s marches … kids are marching, women are marching, everybody is marching. There’s going to be so many marches that by the time he’s done being president, the entire country is going to be in great shape. He might not ﬁx the economy, but everybody’s gonna have amazing calves.” — from Comedy Central’s The New Negroes

12.6 REGAN AND WATKINS

The Comedy Palace, thecomedypalace.com Known for: “Saxophone rock ‘n’ roll comedy,” YouTube sketches

12.6-8 ALONZO BODDEN

The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla Known for: Winning the third season of NBC’s Last Comic Standing, heavy topics with lighthearted delivery

12.7 LISA ALVARADO

The Comedy Palace, thecomedypalace.com Known for: Being the self-proclaimed “Latin Queen of Comedy,” Mis Videos Locos with Paul Rodriguez

12.12-13 HAHA DAVIS

The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com Known for: Vine and Instagram videos, rapping as his alter ego, Mr. Big Fella

12.13-15 ALYCIA COOPER

The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla Known for: Cultural and political commentary, Spider Man: Into the Spider-Verse

12.19-21 BRENDAN SCHAUB

The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla Known for: Being a former professional MMA ﬁghter, self-deprecating humor

12.20-21 HEATHER MCMAHAN

The Magnolia, magnoliasandiego.com Known for: Instagram videos, relatable jokes

12.27-29 & 12.31 PABLO FRANCISCO

The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com Known for: MADtv, “jazz riff” comedy

12.19-21

Jessimae Peluso

The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

she’s “justMysomom, worried

about things, you know. She tells me, ‘Don’t talk to strangers! Don’t talk to strangers!’ I’m like, ‘Mom, I’m 27 years old. I don’t talk to strangers; I sleep with them.’” — Jessimae Peluso at the Broadway Comedy Club

12.27-31 STEVE TREVIÑO

The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla Known for: Being “America’s favorite husband,” Mind of Mencia

12.21 & 23

Doug Benson The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

never eaten at “a I’ve Fogo de Chao, but

it is a fun thing to say when sneezing.” — Doug Benson on Twitter

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

Shop Small WE SCOURED THE CITY TO FIND UNIQUE GIFTS

BY NINA GARIN, JENNIFER IANNI AND SARA BUTLER

DON’T GET US

HOLIDAY GUIDE

wrong, we love a mall. But sometimes we’re in the mood for something different: A smaller shopping experience where you can find gifts close to home, meet your neighbors and even get suggestions from the shop owners. That’s why we created the Shop Small Holiday Guide. We’re spotlighting items and boutiques that are exclusive to San Diego — everything from one-of-akind jewelry to books written by local authors.

GREEN GARDENS NURSERY

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

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Skip the line and get beans straight to your door every month. Choose from nine varieties, all named after San Diego neighborhoods — from Sunset Cliffs (dark roast) to Cortez Hill (espresso).

Achilles Coffee Roasters Craft Coffee Subscription, prices vary, achillescoffeeroasters.com

S HOP SMALL

Got a coffee lover on your list? Fuel their obsession with a gift from a local roaster or shop

San Diegans on the go will appreciate this travel bottle, covered in Odd Daughter Paper Co. illustrations of local landmarks like the North Park sign and the La Jolla seals.

For those who prefer their brew on the chillier side, make (or buy) a large batch and enjoy it all week long.

“Hi From San Diego” Tumbler from Communal Coffee, $30, communalcoffee.com

This pastel set from Dark Horse Coffee Roasters has everything needed to brew the perfect pour-over from home.

K AT

HER

IN E

ELA

IN E

DHCR Coffee Dripper & Mug Set, $27.99 (on sale for $19.99 online), darkhorsecoffeeroasters.com

WestBean 32 oz Cold Brew Growler, $35, thewest bean.com

Curl up on the couch with a hot beverage in this shiny gold number featuring a festive spin on the brand’s signature owl logo. Gold Owl Holiday Mug from James Coffee Co., $16.95, jamescoffeeco.com JASMINE FITZWILLIAM

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

The 51-year-old coffee roaster partnered with Carlsbad-based company Mizu to create an updated and edgy camp cup for the adventurous coffee drinker. Calaveras Camp Cup from Pannikin Coffee & Tea, $19.95, pannikincoffeeandtea.com

Get rid of any aches and pains with this hemp CBD-infused lotion created by a local, women-owned CBD company.

Glow up this holiday with a 28-day supply of a newly launched, plant-based skincare line, complete with two cleansers, a serum, a moisturizer and a ﬁnishing oil.

KB Pure Essentials Deep Relief Pain Salve, $45, kbpureessentials.com

Saffron and Sage Ritual Skincare Set, $150, saffronand sageskin.com

SHOP SMALL

YO LANDA DIAZ

WELLNESS Combat the stress of the holidays by giving the gift of self-care via these soothing products offered at local beauty, lifestyle and wellness shops

Made with semiprecious stones, this elegant massage tool improves facial texture and keeps skin looking bright. Facial Roller from Earth’s Elements, $35, earthselements.com

Indulge this season with Schisandra Chocolate, a superfood perfect for a guilt-free sweet tooth.

Spray the bad vibes away using this Happy Spritz facial mist, a balancing and toning rosewater blend with rose, aloe and peppermint essential oil.

Handmade in Hawaii, Indigenous Soaps uses natural botanicals like sage, without any synthetic colors, preservatives or fragrances.

Dada Life Schisandra Chocolate, available at Shop Good, $13, shop-good.co

Good Karma, available at Thread and Seed, $28, threadandseed.com

Sage Wise Old Soap, available at Wild Island Collective, $8.50, wildisland-collective.com

Keep your gentleman’s face warm this year with a natural oil that promotes beard growth and reduces breakage. Mister Brown’s Beard Oil, $22, mister browns.com

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

SHOP SMALL

Adorn your friends and family (or yourself!) in jewelry made by local designers

Personalize this gold bar necklace with your choice of up to 19 characters. Praxis Jewelry “Latitude Longitude Gold Bar Necklace,” $230, praxis-jewelry.com

Made from sustainable materials, a portion of every Dear Survivor sale beneﬁts GenerateHope, a San Diego based nonproﬁt that combats sex trafficking. Dear Survivor “Mocu White Leather Earrings,” $48, dear-survivor.com

These delicate hoop earrings are a minimalist’s dream that can be worn at the office or at a holiday party. Natalie Borton “Jaime 1.5” Hoop Earrings (Brass Snake),” $60, natalieborton.com

Hop on the horoscope trend with a zodiac necklace that’s perfect for layering. Erin Fader Jewelry Design “What’s Your Sign Zodiac Necklace,” $88, erinfaderjewelry.com

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

JOIN US FOR THE

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

$6 DRAFT BEERS. $7 HOUSE WINES. $8 SIGNATURE COCKTAILS. + DISCOUNTED APPETIZERS, SALADS, PIZZAS & FLATBREADS

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SHOP SMALL Satisfy your pumpkin spice cravings with this popular wine that’s anything but basic.

Say “cheers” to the holiday season with these perfect party presents from local distilleries

FruitCraft Pumpkin Spice Wine, prices vary, fruitcraft. com

Whether you sip it on the rocks, shoot it straight or mix it up into a cocktail, this peanut butter whiskey would warm even the Grinch’s heart. For the beer-lover in your life, try gifting a can of JuneShine’s latest creation: Hopical Citrus, brewed with hops and reminiscent of an IPA. JuneShine Hopical Citrus Hard Kombucha, prices vary, juneshine.co

Launching just in time for holiday entertaining and intended to bring a little sunshine to colder months, this canned cocktail contains notes of pineapple and coconut.

Canned cocktails from You & Yours Distilling Co. are available in ﬂavors like Gin & Tonic, Vodka Mule and Cranberry Vodka Soda. Keep an eye out for new ﬂavors like Tangerine Vodka Soda rolling out before the holidays!

Cutwater Spirits Bali Hai Tiki Rum Mai Tai, $12.99, cutwaterspirits.com

You & Yours canned cocktails, $13.99 for a four-pack, youandyours.com

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Skrewball Original Peanut Butter Whiskey, prices vary, recipes at skrewball whiskey.com

AG AV E

EX P R ESS IONISM

M I L AG R O

M EA N S

M I RAC L E

ART S HOP S MAL L

Illustrator Susie Ghahremani creates whimsical animals, like sloths, chickens, owls and hedgehogs available on pins, notebooks, onesies and more. Bon Voyage Travel Journal, $17, Chicken Enamel Pin, $10, at boygirlparty.com

Beauty comes in a variety of forms with these gifts made by San Diego artists

Bhavna Mehta creates intricate worlds out of paper and embroidery. This book showcases her delicate, ﬂoral-inspired pieces made for the Oceanside Museum of Art. Paper, Pattern and the Story of Gush, $15 at bhavnamehta.com

Encinitas photographer Vincent Darmohusodo transfers his image of a “typical summer surf lineup at Cardiff by the Sea” onto upcycled wood panels from old fences. Surf Lineup, $189 at MK Envision Gallery in Liberty Station

BOO K S S HOP S M A L L

In 1969, a woman gives birth to Lucy, a daughter with Down syndrome, then ﬁghts institutional facilities to give her child a better life.

A woman adrift in her 30s inherits her grandmother’s box of secret love letters from a man who is not her grandfather.

Keeping Lucy by T. Greenwood (St. Martin’s Press, $27.99)

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

How to Set Yourself on Fire by Julia Dixon Evans (Dzanc Books, $16.95)

Find handmade, functional items from Tiny Badger Ceramics, a small-batch ceramics studio that brings a modern twist to classic pieces. Slip-cast Porcelain Cup, $35 at San Diego Art Institute

Pick up these books by local writers

A noir novel set in Oceanside that follows a former youth pastor who has fallen from grace and sets out to solve the disappearance of a young hitchhiker.

Winner of the Pen/ Fusion Emerging Writers Prize, this memoir explores Guerrero’s quest to understand her father’s behavior between sanity and madness.

Based on African history and mythology, the story takes place in a magical world ruled by a ruthless king and follows a young girl who rises up to ﬁght oppression.

The Churchgoer by Patrick Coleman (Harper Perennial, $16.99)

Crux: A CrossBorder Memoir by Jean Guerrero (One World, $27)

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi (Henry Holt and Co., $18.99)

The journey of a sensitive and anxious middle school boy forced to overcome his fears at a very popular San Diego comic book convention. Stanley Will Probably Be Fine by Sally J. Pla (HarperCollins, $16.99)

BIGA (bee-gah)

Nurture your heart and soul

Mention PACIFIC and get a glass of wine on us!

Locally sourced & highest quality Italian imports. LUNCH DINNER CATERING 950 Sixth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101 619.794.0444 | bigasandiego.com

S HOP S MALL

If you’re looking for more variety in your holiday gift hunt, check out one of these boutiques that stock mostly local items and gifts, like art, décor, knickknacks, beauty products, candles and more

Gold Leaf’s goal is to provide shoppers with objects that “bring joy.” That means stocking items like cooking utensils, crystals, tote bags, jewelry and essential oils. The store is located South Park’s historic Burlingame Garage, which was built in 1914. Gold Leaf stocks brands like Caramel Caravan, Paddywax, Fringe Studio, Yes Cocktail Co., Justina Blakeney, Moglea and more. Gold Leaf, South Park, goldleafsouthpark.com

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

HOLLY R ONE

Billed as a “stationary, home and lifestyle shop,” Small Batch Store lives up to its name: It carries small batches of goods, mostly locally made. Brands carried include 1502 Candles, Mimi & Lu Jewelry, Cuffel Farms, Momma Pots, Bradley Mountains and Favor Jewelry. Small Batch Store, La Mesa, smallbatchstore.com

Kiko + Sven’s motto is “local shopping with heart.” And shoppers are sure to heart the variety of products that line its shelves, like candles, lip balms, plants and pottery, jewelry and apparel. According to owner Brenna Van Norman, popular gift ideas this year include the rolling wine/whiskey glasses and decanter, ghost pepper-infused whipped honey and a succulent desk calendar. Kiko + Sven, Normal Heights, kikoandsven.com

The sister store to South Park’s popular Graffiti Beach, Thread + Seed’s focus is on clean beauty and wellness. The store also creates popular gift boxes that can be customized to suit shoppers’ needs. Melanie Michaud, the store’s owner, anticipates that the Jewel Box by Herbivore, which includes all of their bestselling all-natural facial oils, will be popular this holiday season.

With locations in San Francisco and San Diego, Often Wander stocks handmade candles and jewelry, including its best-selling astrological candles. And for those who are looking for something extra special, Often Wander allows shoppers to create their own candles with custom scents during their monthly candle parties. Often Wander, Little Italy, oftenwander.com

Thread + Seed, Bankers Hill, threadandseed.com @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

ARTS | COOLTURE ART BEAT BY LISA DEADERICK

Through 12.2020

Insects Face to Face San Diego Natural History Museum, Balboa Park, sdnhm.org Get close, face-to-face close, with various insects photographed using macro photography and taken by researchers at the U.S. Geological Survey Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. More than 30 large-scale photos illustrate crawly creatures like honeybees, cockroaches and lace bugs.

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

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DECEMBER 4TH KENNY ENG

DECEMBER 11TH DAVID ROSALES

DECEMBER 18TH CRAIG BLAINE

DECEMBER 25TH CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS

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PULSE | VISUAL ARTS

12.4-6 FALL 2019 POP-UP STUDENT ART EXHIBITION

Mesa College Art Gallery, Linda Vista, sdmesa.edu Students in the ﬁne arts studio classes and fashion at San Diego Mesa College will display 100 works of art, ranging from jewelry to ceramics, painting to photography, sculpture to digital media in this exhibition where pieces were selected to demonstrate a mastered technique.

Art Beat

December gallery + exhibit openings BY LISA DEADERICK

12.6-31 LOLLIPOP SEA

June Rubin Art Studio/Gallery, Liberty Station, junerubin.com Ride a wave of whimsy as artist June Rubin brings her Lollipop Sea show to the holiday season, featuring paisley designs with gems and abstract watercolor seascapes with glitter. Lollipop Storm by June Rubin

Through 12.22 C. FODOREANU: STREET SMART

River of Gold by Duke Windsor

12.1-3.1 DUKE WINDSOR: RADIANCE / A SOLO SHOW

Sparks Gallery, downtown, sparksgallery.com An exhibition of new work by artist Duke Windsor, featuring pieces with gold leaf and its power to stir up feelings of wanderlust on San Diego’s roads less traveled.

‘Julian and Aidan are standing like all the roads can start from there. Like that freeway sign. And those two birds are their souls escaping away.’ by C. Fodoreanu

Cornel/Henry Art, Barracks 14, Liberty Station, cornelhenryart.com This collection of black-andwhite photos is part of an ongoing project by the artist to document at-risk youth in Southern California in their “majestic, towering beauty.”

12.21-5.31 ARTIST ALLIANCE 2019 BIENNIAL Oceanside Museum of Art, Oceanside, oma-online.org In support of local and regional artists, the Oceanside Museum of Art presents this juried exhibition with a cross-section of outstanding artwork from members of the museum’s Artist Alliance, juried by Bob Pincus and Maria Mingalone. The Drummer by Doriana Sinnett

Mt. San Miguel by Duke Windsor

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Through 1.3 JAMES VERBICKY: LOST WHERE I BELONG

Madison Gallery, Solana Beach, madisongalleries.com Get a closer look at artist James Verbicky’s creative progression in his 10th solo exhibition, where he’s used vintage media, advertisements and other materials that trace his work from his sculptural mixed media paintings to his new Citta Samtana: REBIRTH series on canvas.

Through 1.4 C-NOTE ANNUAL ART SALE

Ashton Gallery, North Park, ashtonartgallery.com Ashton Gallery sent out the call, and artists responded with affordable pieces between $100 and $300, for this regular and very popular annual art sale.

Foodie by Ellis Luu

Through 12.8 ELLIS LUU: HOPE IT MATTERS

Mother by Lisa Bebi

Thumbprint Gallery, La Jolla, thumbprintgallerysd.com Artist Ellis Luu is a freelance illustrator who studied at San Diego State University, earning a broad background in painting, sculpture, drawing and design with specializations in ceramics, illustration, electronic media and more.

Through 12.8 AARON MOORE: THANK YOU PLEASE

Thumbprint Gallery, La Jolla, thumbprintgallerysd. com Artist Aaron Moore presents a new and experimental body of work, exploring the depth and nuances of human mortality, using watercolor and older acrylic and mixed media pieces. The Deer Hearts by Aaron Moore pieces were created during different periods of a severe alcoholic life, and later, after receiving a liver transplant.

Through 3.15 NANCY LUPO: SCRIPTS FOR THE PAGEANT

Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, downtown, mcasd.org In her ﬁrst solo exhibition, artist Nancy Lupo Research image for Scripts for the Pageant by Nancy Lupo presents a new sculpture, Open Mouth, serving as a conversation between the architecture of the MCASD Downtown Farrell Gallery and the sculpture, which is an arrangement of 16 cast iron, aluminum and bronze benches. @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

PULSE | PERFORMING ARTS

In the Wings What’s on stage in December BY JAMES HEBERT

12.5-29 FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS

Lamb’s Players Theatre, Coronado lambsplayers.org Lamb’s rolls out a fresh script every holiday season for this long-running, family-minded yuletide tradition; for 2019, it’s an encore of the radiominded “It’s Christmas and It’s Live!”

12.6 ¡VÍVELO! WITH SON LUNA Y JÓVENES ZAPATEADORES

California Center for the Arts, Escondido artcenter.org The Mexican musical ensemble Son Luna teams with the dancers of Jóvenes Zapateadores for a large-scale show that delves into folkloric dance, Africaninspired movement and more.

12.6-22 SCROOGE IN ROUGE

OB Playhouse & Theatre Co., Ocean Beach obplayhouse.com This comically bawdy take on the saga of Ebenezer Scrooge draws on British music-hall tropes to tell the story of a hapless three-member troupe (led by a male impersonator) trying to enact all 20-plus parts in an adaptation of A Christmas Carol.

12.7 SAN DIEGO OPERA’S ONE AMAZING NIGHT

Balboa Theatre, downtown sdopera.org The opera’s popular annual event returns, and this time around it boasts the much-admired soprano Ailyn Pérez and the Grammy Award-winning tenor Joshua Guerrero, who will team for a recital with a Spanish theme.

12.8 LATIN HISTORY FOR MORONS

San Diego Civic Theatre, downtown ticketmaster.com Born at La Jolla Playhouse and a hit 54

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Festival of Christmas KEN JAC QUES

on Broadway, John Leguizamo’s Tony Award-nominated solo piece returns to town, with “Johnny Legs” offering a spirited, satirical take on the forgotten history of Latinos and Latinas in the Americas.

the improv treatment in this everunpredictable show from the L.A.-based Impro Theatre, who’ve made the piece a seasonal favorite at NCRT.

12.9 MUSICAL MONDAY

Trinity Theatre at the Tenth Avenue Arts Center, downtown trinityttc.org A church Christmas pageant runs up against the mayhem created by a crew of young hellions in this stage adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s 1971 novel for kids.

Cygnet Theatre, Old Town cygnettheatre.com “Holiday Hullabaloo” is the theme for Cygnet’s latest Monday showcase; the show (hosted by Melissa Fernandes) will feature Manny Fernandes, Zack Wolfe, Colleen Kollar Smith and Amy Perkins interpreting holiday tunes to Terry O’Donnell’s piano accompaniment.

12.12-22 SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE CHRISTMAS ANGELS

California Center for the Arts, Escondido artcenter.org The great detective clearly doesn’t take a break for the holidays; this story (presented by a cast of 20) puts Holmes at the center of a mystery that echoes other favorite tales of the season.

12.16-17 DICKENS UNSCRIPTED

Impro Theatre at North Coast Rep, Solana Beach northcoastrep.org The works of that other Chuck D. get

12.20-22 THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER

Through 12.29 WELKOME HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Welk Resorts Theatre, Escondido sandiegotickets.welkresorts.com The theater that Lawrence Welk built puts its name behind (or, actually, in) this musical celebration of the season — a variety show set to sounds both traditional and contemporary.

12.31-1.12 DEAR EVAN HANSEN

San Diego Civic Theatre, downtown broadwaysd.com The hot songwriting team of Pasek & Paul (La La Land and more) scored this still-running Broadway hit about a struggling high-school kid who gets caught up in a whirl of difficult and life-changing events over a misunderstood letter.

MUSIC MAKES THE HOLIDAYS EVEN MORE SPECIAL!

FAMILY CONCERT!

FRI DEC 13, 7:30PM

SAT DEC 14, 7:30PM | SAT DEC 15, 2PM FRI DEC 20, 7:30PM | SAT DEC 21, 2PM SAT DEC 21, 7:30PM | SUN DEC 22, 2PM

DISNEY IN CONCERT: NOEL NOEL MARY POPPINS

Five-time Academy Award®-winning Disney ﬁlm — Mary Poppins — unfolds on the big screen with the San Diego Symphony orchestra performing The Sherman Brothers’ charming and delightful Oscar® award-winning musical score. Featuring unforgettable performances by Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, hum along to family favorites like Best Original Song winner “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” and “Let’s Go Fly a Kite.” Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © All rights reserved.

San Diego’s Favorite Holiday Tradition!

Let holiday cheer bring you and your loved ones near at our annual “Noel Noel” holiday concert for the whole family. The sounds of old-fashioned and new-found festive music makes the season bright and delightful as audiences sing along with the San Diego Master Chorale. Decked with boughs of holly and sparkling lights, Copley Symphony Hall at the Jacobs Music Center warmly welcomes you and the North Pole’s most famous resident!

CELEBRATE BEETHOVEN’S 250TH BIRTHDAY Discover the power of Beethoven as we present his most iconic masterpieces throughout the month of January and all season long.

TICKETS & INFORMATION

SANDIEGOSYMPHONY.ORG | 619.235.0804

PULSE | PERFORMING ARTS

K.C. ALFRED

In The Arts

Meet the people in San Diego’s arts community BY NINA GARIN

oys in ballet have never had it easy. They’re teased, bullied and made to feel less masculine. Just this summer, Good Morning America co-anchor Lara Spencer mocked 6-year-old Prince George for liking ballet — a comment that sparked international outcry, complete with a hashtag: #boysdancetoo. San Diego’s Geoff Gonzalez, 34, grew up as a boy in ballet, training since age 15. Now he’s a dancer and resident choreographer at City Ballet 56

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

of San Diego. For the last two seasons, he’s staged the company’s extravagant and popular Carmina Burana ballet. Gonzalez shares his experience growing up in the dance world and transitioning to choreography. And because it’s Nutcracker season, he reveals which roles he loves (and hates).

opinions. Involve yourself in different styles, methods and techniques, and keep an open mind. You will always have more attention being a boy in dance and that can be a positive or negative thing. Be humble, strive to always be a great person first. Work really (really, really) hard.

Can you share your own experiences growing up as a dancer? It was tough to be a male dancer through high school. It takes a lot of mental strength to handle a dance life. You really have to love it. I stood my ground and never blinked when anyone would try to put me down. I knew what I wanted and nobody was going to stop me. I think it’s cool that it’s now a cool thing for boys to dance. The support out there now is really wonderful.

What was your own dance training like? I trained in diverse styles and methods. Ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and some tap.

What advice do you have for boys who want to dance? Learn everything equally without bias or

What is your training regimen now that you’re a professional? I try to stay in shape year-round. During work days, I’m at the Pacific Beach 24 Hour Fitness three to four days a week. I work with wonderful personal trainers at SKfit in North Park. Plus, there’s all the dancing a dancer does, and I teach at six different studios around San Diego every week.

It’s Nutcracker season, tell us how many times you’ve been in that ballet … This will be my 11th with City Ballet. What are the different roles you’ve danced? I have performed every role there is to perform for a male dancer in our version with the exception of Drosselmeyer: Nutcracker Prince, Rat King, Spanish, Russian, Arabian, Grand pas Cavalier, to name a few. What’s your favorite role? My favorite is the Nutcracker Prince. You really feel like the show revolves around you. You can have a great impact on the magic of the show. Least favorite? My least favorite is Party Scene as the Father of Clara. I have to wear a wig and a lot of makeup

to disguise myself and the quick change out of it is rough. You’re also City’s resident choreographer; how did you transition into choreography? I started with choreography very soon after starting dance. I took any opportunity to make movement for dancers and design concepts for shows. I wanted to build big things in dance. How do you come up with ideas? I try to let them come naturally as if a daydream. The hard part is filtering to the ideas that will actually work in reality. What are your plans for the future of City Ballet? To continue the excellence and wonder that City Ballet has been for the past 27 seasons.

I have a wonderful opportunity to sit very close to my mentors and parents-in-law (Gonzalez is married to Ariana Gonzalez, daughter of City Ballet founders Steven and Elizabeth Wistrich) and learn in real time what it takes to run the company. I think the future of City Ballet is a bright one and I see this being a renowned place for dance in the world. Who is your favorite dancer/choreographer of all time? Dancer would have to be Richard Cragun, an American principal dancer from the Stuttgart Ballet. He was just so powerful, physically and dramatically. Choreography is a small list: George Balanchine, Jiri Kylian and Jerome Robbins. Where can people follow you on social media? Facebook and Instagram @geoffgonzalezdance.

CHELSEA PENYAK

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

PULSE | MOV I E S

Agnès Varda. Varda by Agnès, Vardas’ final documentary, offers a self-reflective journey through the multidecade career of this indefatigable and revolutionary French artist, making it the perfect holiday gift for all cinephiles. Screens at Digital Gym Cinema starting Dec. 20 Amy Perkins, actor After lighting the Hanukkah candles, every year my family and I love to watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. It makes us laugh every time, and is one of the only movies to keep my dad’s attention the whole way through. We can practically recite the whole script by now!

RON BATZDORFF / UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

Our Favorite Holiday Movies BY NINA GARIN

his is the time of year for highbrow films — the important biopics, historical dramas and epic journeys that earn actors lots of Oscar nominations. But it’s also a time for cozy nostalgia. A time to lounge around with family and friends, stay in pajamas all day and watch a comforting holiday movie, whether it’s Miracle on 34th Street or A Charlie Brown Christmas. With that in mind, PACIFIC asked a variety of San Diegans to share their go-to holiday movies. Here’s what they’ll be watching. (Unless otherwise noted, these titles are available to buy or rent on iTunes, Amazon and YouTube) Meryl Klemow, co-host of the Cantore Show on 100.7 San Diego My favorite holiday movie that I have on repeat each year is A Christmas Story, but not for the reasons you may think. Beyond the holiday festiveness and family

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

antics, what I really love and keep going back for are the Bumpus Hounds! As a bloodhound lover, I know how hard it is to train them and really get them to do anything unless they want to do it, and the scene where they eat the turkey and run away on cue is hilarious and relatable as something that my hounds have done to me. In full disclosure, I’m not the biggest movie lover out there (subtext: I can barely sit still for five minutes of any movie). But throw in some gorgeous bloodhounds acting up and you’ve got a fan! TBS brings back its annual A Christmas Story marathon starting at 8 p.m. Dec. 24. Brian Hu, artistic director at Pacific Arts Movement Holiday movies are usually defined by family togetherness, warm feelings or miracles of the spiritual order. But sometimes they’re about visual splendor — that immersion of lights and night skies that bleed together everyday lives with fantastical worlds. Tom Lin’s Starry Starry Night adapts a famous Taiwanese graphic novel about two kids slipping into a

wondrous forest. Unfolding like a dream of carols, old toys and grandparents’ wisdom, the film is like waking up bleary-eyed on Christmas morning, the world sparkling anew. DVD available for purchase on Amazon.

Jennifer Gendron, director at Allied Global Marketing It is not Christmas until we are all bundled up on the couch with a fire going, drinking hot cocoa and watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Jim Carrey version). And I think this particular version is the best example of true holiday spirit that kids can understand — the joy of Christmas comes from giving, kindness and loving each other. Streaming on Netflix Moisés Esparza, curator at Digital Gym Cinema I spend my holiday breaks indulging in film-watching marathons featuring beloved classics and brand new discoveries. In keeping with this tradition, I’ll be viewing my personal favorite films from the late, great

William “BJ” Robinson, actor in Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at the Old Globe A favorite holiday film for me is Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. It’s an absolutely gorgeous musical, be it in your ear or on a screen. I’m a Jack Skellington type of guy, always trying to celebrate life every day. This film reminds me to have the fullest heart and most joyful intentions, from Halloween to Christmas, as well as every other day of the year! Beth Accomando, KPBS arts reporter and film critic My son and I have a tradition on Christmas of watching action films set during the holidays and you’d be surprised how many there are. The go-to choice is always the first Die Hard film: Bruce Willis in top form, an irresistible Alan Rickman as the villain and plenty of bloody Christmas cheer. But we usually like to also throw in a Shane Black film because he seems to set every film of his at Christmas so you can choose from Lethal Weapon, Long Kiss Goodnight or Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. We sometimes throw in I Come in Peace since my son loves Dolph Lundgren. Sometimes we stay up all night watching these. It’s some nice mother-son bonding time. I even started to write an action movie version of The 12 Days of Christmas song … but that might not be for everyone. Here’s the opening line, “On the first day of Christmas Shane Black sent to me, the first Lethal Weapon movie.”

2019-20 presents New! SPEAKER Series

BETWEEN RIVER AND RIM: HIKING THE GRAND CANYON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2019 · 7 PM · THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL at THE CONRAD

with PETE

MCBRIDE, photographer/filmmaker and KEVIN FEDARKO, writer

MARTHA GRAHAM DANCE COMPANY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2020 · 8 PM · CIVIC THEATRE Martha Graham Dance Company returns to La Jolla Music Society to captive audiences with the “most skilled and powerful dancers you can ever hope to see” (The Washington Post)

RANKY TANKY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2020 · 7 PM & 9 PM THE JAI at THE CONRAD Experience a soul band that exudes a feeling of “primal jubilation” (New York Times).

FOR MORE INFO AND TICKETS: 858.459.3728 | LJMS.ORG

V ISUAL ARTS

Good Influencer

Arielle Meads @Pourstyles 2.7K followers www.pourstyles.com Former ballerina. Certiﬁed sommelier. Fashion stylist. Marketing director.

Have a glass of wine with Arielle Meads. BY JENNIFER IANNI

rielle Meads wears a lot of hats — literally and figuratively. As the voice behind Pourstyles, Arielle shares her passion for all things vino and vintage clothes with her followers, along with decorating tips, restaurant recommendations and the occasional cat picture. A trained ballerina who formerly danced with San Diego Ballet, she now spends her days as a fashion stylist, marketing director and wine aficionado, while showcasing her eclectic and unique style (think Stevie Nicks meets David Bowie, with a little Jack Skellington mixed in for good measure) and wine knowledge to her blog audience. With the holiday season upon us, we caught up with the certified sommelier to talk wine gifting and how to be “bougie on a budget.” Where are you from and where do you live now? Born and raised in San Diego! Originally from Point Loma, now living in Old Town. How did your blog, Pourstyles, come about? I worked as a professional ballerina and musical theater performer for the majority of my 20s … but as my performing career was coming to a close, I started searching for other passions of mine (even though I still get hired for gigs from time to time!). It’s always been imperative to hold an artistic career, so I really started digging deep into what else I was truly passionate about. Mind you, this internal journey was coming to fruition over a glass of viognier. I started to realize that I was always 60

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

“

My style is inspired by so many things: rock ’n’ roll, Halloween, European architecture and eclectic muses like David Bowie and Iris Apfel, just to name a few.”

that girl who brought a bottle of aged cabernet to house parties, and became best friends with the bartender conversing about terroir and the history of bold Italian reds. Thus, Pourstyles was born. I really created the blog to learn about wine. Drink wine, write about said wine, make wine friends, etc. I created the name Pourstyles as a pun for drinking wine and dressing up for “pour” people. Being on an artist budget, it was important for me to share a “bougie on a budget” lifestyle. You can still drink amazing wine and look fabulous without much in your pocket! How did things change after starting your blog? Since Pourstyles has taken off, I now work in the fashion industry as a stylist and marketing director, and have received my level 2 sommelier certification, giving my little blog a lot more credibility. Pourstyles went from a dream to a hustle to a full-time career in two years. Since my blog and other marketing ventures, I’ve started an events company offering interactive wine tastings in the comfort of your own home guided by your own personal sommelier, Pourstyles! Where do you find your style inspiration? My style is inspired by so many things: rock ’n’ roll, Halloween, European architecture and eclectic muses like David Bowie and Iris Apfel, just to name a few. I’m inspired by the art of pattern mixing: incorporating combat boots with a baby doll dress, and comically oversized earrings. I was lucky to grow up in a very fashionforward and artistic family. My mother was in the fashion industry and introduced me at a young age

to the beautiful world of Chanel, Sonia Rykiel, Alexander McQueen and Anna Sui. I am known to wear a lot of clothes at one time. I’ve always been extremely tiny and I guess the more clothes I wear, the bigger I feel! I’m a big believer in oversized everything. More is more and less is a bore! What are some of your favorite local boutiques? I have two favorite boutiques in San Diego. Le Bel Age in Mission Hills (@lebelageboutique) really nails the Halloween meets glam meets rock ’n’ roll style that I’m so very into. I am also

a frequent shopper of Mimi & Red (mimiandred.com) for my denim, graphic T’s and slip dresses that I rock on a daily basis. Both boutiques are woman owned and operated, and I always try to support fellow girl bosses.

fruit, a little of this, a little of that. You really can’t complain too much with a blend. Carruth Cellars does a Unicorn blend that is fully equipped with stunning packaging, as well as a high-end taste (carruthcellars.com).

Let’s talk gifting wine. What’s an affordable bottle of wine that makes a great gift this season for:

Your in-laws: We want to impress mom-in-law but also want to keep things simple and tasting fresh. One of my favorite varietals is chenin blanc with its pink grapefruit flavor, crisp acidity and herbal notes. Gianni Buonomo Vintners has an outstanding 2017 chenin blanc that is available for purchase and taste in Ocean Beach (gbvintners. com).

Your boss: This always needs to be a little on the fancy side, but not too “in your face wine snob.” I’m going to choose an aged cabernet that is ready to drink tonight, or in five years. Robert Renzoni Vineyards in Temecula has a beautiful 2013 cab that makes a beautiful and delicious holiday gift (robertrenzonivineyards.com). Your best friend: Bubbles, of course! Thornton Winery in Temecula is known for using the traditional Champagne method for their sparkling, so I always recommend a bottle from Thornton for a bubbly gift (thorntonwine.com). Your random cousin: Red blends are always a safe bet. You get a little tannin, a little

Which bar or restaurant has the best wine program in town? It’s so hard to choose my favorite wine bar in town, because so many amazing ones keep popping up! But I have to say, The 3rd Corner in Ocean Beach is my true ride or die. You get to shop for a bottle of wine, which is great for label nerds like me, and bring it back to your table. Plus, the food is incredible. I highly recommend the brie appetizer, scallop entrée and a bottle or two of some French pinot noir (the3rdcorner.com). @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

TASTE EAT | DRINK | PUFF DINING OUT

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

Dinner & Blitzen 62

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Skip cooking this Christmas and celebrate Santa’s arrival at these ﬁne restaurants It’s the season of giving, so give yourself a break this Christmas and leave the cooking to some of San Diego’s best chefs. Each of the following restaurants is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, serving special buffets, brunches and prix-fixe menus. Don’t wait to make reservations!

PROMOTION

FEAST & FAREWAY Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning a casual gathering on the covered patio amid water and golf course views, or gearing up for a formal event in the picturesque Fareway Room, Feast & Fareway is the idyllic setting for guests to eat, drink and mingle along the iconic Coronado Golf Course! Enjoy an elegant and unique waterfront spot conducive to scenic wedding ceremonies, framed by the stunning backdrop of the iconic Coronado Bridge, as well as a private beach overlook. Seating accommodates 325 guests, and catering professionals are ready to personally coordinate with you, or your planner, to

Feast & Fareway 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado, CA 92118 | 619.738.2858 feastandfarewaycoronado.com

creatively and successfully execute your event. Food is one of the most important components of any successful gathering, and Feast & Farewayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, creative presentations and customizable menus are focused on creating lasting memories for all. Start planning your next event today!

Perfect Venue for Holiday Parties, Corporate and Special Events.

TAST E | DINING BAHIA RESORT HOTEL

Mission Bay, bahiahotel.com The Christmas Day brunch buffet (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) includes carving stations, a visit from Santa and live entertainment throughout the afternoon. $56 per person, $25 for children ages 5 to 11 and free for kids under 5.

BO-BEAU KITCHEN + CACHE AND BO-BEAU KITCHEN + BAR

Hillcrest and Ocean Beach, cohnrestaurants.com/ bobeaukitchenbar These two Bo-beau locations are serving a special three-course Christmas dinner from the early afternoon until 7 p.m. $46.95 and $49.95 respectively, $14.95 for kids.

CATAMARAN RESORT HOTEL AND SPA

Paciﬁc Beach, catamaranresort.com The resort’s 11 a.m.-till-4 p.m. Christmas brunch buffet includes carving stations, a children’s spread and live carolers throughout the afternoon. $62 per adult and $25 per child.

CUSP DINING & DRINKS

La Jolla, cusprestaurant.com Skip pricey prix ﬁxe menus and dine on Cusp’s usual dinner offerings plus the chef’s new holiday specials.

GRANT GRILL LOUNGE

Downtown, grantgrill.com The Grill’s multicourse Christmas Day dinner is $97 per person ($85 for seniors and $45 for kids), while wine pairings are available for an additional $43.

GIARDINO

Lemon Grove, giardinosd.com Feast on a preset menu of a la carte items or take advantage of the to-go option to pick up hot ’n’ ready holiday dishes you and your loved ones can eat at home. Pacifica Del Mar

Waterbar HOWA RD LIPIN

JRDN

Paciﬁc Beach, t23hotel.com/jrdn Delight in a three-course, locally sourced dinner featuring all of the season’s favorites. $45 to $60 per person.

and dinners for $60 per person ($35 for kids under 12), and add beer ($15) or wine ($30) pairings to make the most of the menu. Open Christmas Day 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

OSETRA SEAFOOD & STEAKS

THE MED @ LA VALENCIA

Gaslamp, osetraseafoodandsteaks.com Choose either a three-course menu for $54 per person or a four-course menu for $69 per person, and optionally enhance your evening with Ossetra caviar and a bottle of Moet Chandon.

PACIFICA DEL MAR

Del Mar, paciﬁcadelmar.com Three-course lunches and dinners will be served alongside stunning views on Christmas Day from noon until 9 p.m. $68 per person.

PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE

Solana Beach, pgrille.com Choose from prix ﬁxe options during the Christmas Eve dinner from 4 to 9 p.m., or order from the restaurant’s regular menu Christmas Day from 3 to 8 p.m.

PRIMAVERA RISTORANTE

Coronado, primavera1st.com Reserve a spot for the three-course La Viglia de Natale feast on Christmas Eve ($75) and wash down your meal with a specialty cocktail ($14) concocted for the occasion.

PROVISIONAL KITCHEN

Gaslamp, pendry.com/san-diego/ dining/provisional/ Celebrate the holidays with a specially crafted three-course prix ﬁxe menu. $85 per person, $25 for children ages 3-12 and $30 for wine pairings.

THE GRILL AT TORREY PINES

La Jolla, lodgetorreypines.com/the-grill Dine on three-course prix ﬁxe brunches 64

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

La Jolla, lavalencia.com/ dining/the-med The prix ﬁxe Christmas Eve dinner is $88 per person or $105 with wine pairing, and the Christmas Day buffet is $94 per person and $45 for children age 6-12.

THE WESTGATE

Downtown, westgatehotel.com Fill up at the Le Fontainebleau Room’s holiday buffet from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. ($99 for adults, $40 for children ages 4 to 12 and $20 for bottomless wine or champagne), or choose a four-course prix ﬁxe dinner ($79) in the Westgate Room from 5 to 9 p.m.

TWENTY|20

Carlsbad, 20twentygrill.com This recently reimagined restaurant is serving an exquisite, three-course Christmas Eve dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. and a festive Christmas Day dinner from 3 to 8 p.m. $75 and $80 respectively.

WATERBAR

Paciﬁc Beach, Waterbarsd.com Soak in a spectacular oceanfront view while feasting on an exclusive holiday menu Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

ZINQUÉ

Little Italy, Lezinque.com Add some European ﬂair to your Christmas celebration at this French bistro offering imported Parisian bread and a curated wine list. Open Christmas Day from 7 a.m. to midnight.

PROMOTION

Hungry? Check out one of these noteworthy San Diego restaurants.

BIGA BIGA is a farm-to-table Italian restaurant in downtown, providing a wide array of handcrafted dishes to satisfy just about any appetite. Because it is locally sourced, the menu is refreshed seasonally and has some great wood fired entrées and sides as well as award-winning, Neapolitan style pizzas. The size of the venue is great for private parties (up to about 90 people) and the rustic decor is cozy and welcoming.

BLUE WATER SEAFOOD OCEAN BEACH

THE BLIND BURRO

Every day, Blue Water starts with the freshest fish they can get and carefully prepare it to enhance its flavor. Indulge in their dishes that are made to order with fresh and local seafood. Pair your meal with a local craft beer and enjoy the view!

The Blind Burro is a Mexican eatery and bar that specializes in Baja-style coastal cuisine and cocktails located steps away from Petco Park. In addition to classic Mexican fare, you can find standout items like Executive Chef Todd Nash’s Baja “Ramen,” a tasty homage to the Japanese dish with all of the south-of-theborder influence that San Diego has to offer.

950 Sixth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 794-0444 bigasandiego.com

5083 Santa Monica Ave, San Diego, CA 92107 (619) 255-8497 sdbluewater.com

639 J St., San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 795-7880 theblindburro.com

COASTERRA

BO-BEAU KITCHEN + CACHÉ

THE PATIO ON LAMONT

Visit Coasterra, San Diego’s premier bayfront dining destination. Enjoy the flavors of Chef Deborah Scott’s modern Mexican cuisine paired with breathtaking skyline views. Sip delicious margaritas and savor fresh local seafood while dining alfresco on the expansive patio. Featuring over 28,000 square feet of event space including the Bayview Ballroom and Harbor Float, Coasterra is the perfect venue for your wedding, corporate gathering or special celebration.

Rustic charm meets vintage elegance in this intimate neighborhood bistro located on University Avenue in the heart of Hillcrest. BO-beau kitchen + caché showcases a delicious French-Cal menu with favorites such as the famous Crispy Brussel Sprouts, Brown Butter Scallops and Steak Frites. Dine under the antique chandeliers in our main dining room or enjoy a glass of wine out on the patio featuring a wood burning fireplace. After dinner, head next door to our Parisian-inspired speakeasy Caché for unique craft cocktails.

The Patio on Lamont offers a pet-friendly restaurant and cozy bar in the heart of Pacific Beach. Here you will find an eclectic farmto-table cuisine, worldly wines, local brews, cool cocktails and a place to relax, enjoy, and share. In addition to the charming indoor main dining room, The Patio on Lamont showcases a cool and casual open-aired patio with a living green wall and fireplace. Offering lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and daily happy hour, The Patio is the perfect spot for any occasion.

880 Harbor Island Dr., San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 814-1300 coasterra.com

1027 University Ave, San Diego CA, 92103 (619) 481-5033 bobeaucache.com

4445 Lamont St, San Diego, CA 92109 (858) 412-4648 thepatioonlamont.com

[PA C I F I C

E AT S

PROMOTION

]

PACIFIC SOCIAL

VALENTINA

CLOAK & PETAL

Eat, drink and be social! Come check out the newly opened Pacific Social in Carmel Valley. This New American eatery and bar offers casual neighborhood dining with a “come one, come all” mentality. From the upstairs arcade to the dog-friendly patios with games and the sports-centric bar, the versatile and vibrant space has something for everyone. Pacific Social offers lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and daily happy hour. Don’t forget to save room for our signature housemade pies!

Valentina welcomes Leucadia locals and visitors to enjoy an eclectic neighborhood bistro that offers a selection of signature dishes inspired by the unique cuisine of the Mediterranean. Their rotating menu incorporates only the finest in local and seasonal ingredients artfully prepared by Executive Chef Lisa Ortiz. Pair your meal with the perfect wine or enlist the help of their resident sommelier.

Enter Cloak & Petal and travel underground to décor reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, a stratum of society all its own, an artist’s dream. Cross the threshold into a mystically transformed Japanese social dining lounge which appears to be an outdoor seating area, similar to a waiting platform. Sit beneath a trellis of draping vines and teardrop lights in the intimate space they’ve thoughtfully created, and feast on authentic Japanese sushi, appetizers, small plates and drinks with family and friends.

6025 Village Way, San Diego, CA 92130 (858) 720-6645 pacsocialsd.com

810 N. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 943-6686 restaurantvalentina.com

1953 India St. San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 501-5505 cloakandpetal.com

TOAST GASTROBRUNCH

LOFT 94 AT JAMUL CASINO

WR KITCHEN & BAR

Toast is a place to gather with family, friends, and loved ones and enjoy the best meal of the day. They serve up classic favorites with a unique twist. Whether it’s roasting vegetables in-house or whipping up French toast batter from scratch, they take pride in the details. You can get breakfast food anywhere, but you can only get an amazing brunch experience here. So wake up to something wonderful and raise a glass to Toast.

Enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping on one of Jamul’s new handcrafted cocktails, select sake offerings, or any of the other 24 amazing local craft beers on tap. Plus, enjoy Yakitori Grilled Wagyu Beef, Tonkotsu Ramen, Ahí Poke Bowls and many more unique options. They’re perfect for sharing or keeping to yourself!

WR Kitchen & Bar is casual dining at its best. Comfortably dine with family and friends while enjoying much of the same great American food and drinks you’re accustomed to getting at Wood Ranch. In addition, they’ve worked hard over the past two years innovating several delicious and unique new food and drink items that they’re confident will excite you too. WR Kitchen & Bar features a live wood-fired open kitchen as well as full bar curated by our beverage team to offer house-made small batch cocktails, several craft draft beers and great wines.

5970 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 438-1212 toastgastrobrunch.com

14145 Campo Rd, Jamul, CA 91935 (619) 315-2250 jamulcasionsd.com/restaurant/loft-94

2668 Gateway Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (442) 232-4440 wrkitchenbar.com

[PA C I F I C

EATS

PROMOTION

]

BULL & BOURBON AT SYCUAN

TAVERN AT THE VOGUE

COLD BEERS & CHEESEBURGERS

Bull & Bourbon is a cut above other steakhouses – literally. Their innovative approach to classic steakhouse cuisine makes for a multi-sensory experience. Because they source local coastal California seafood, use steaks cut from an in-house butcher program, and choose select cuts from their on-site aging room, they always start with top-quality ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes.

Taking residence next to the historic Vogue Theater, Tavern at the Vogue joins the Chula Vista downtown scene with classic steins, an impressive selection of beers and a family friendly atmosphere. With a distinct vision in mind, the owners brought this authentic German-inspired beer hall to life, complete with their own added flair. Take your pick from an array of unique beers, craft cocktails, pretzels and sausage options, to name a few. Liven up the week with food and drink specials, a late night happy hour and a vibe that won’t disappoint.

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers is your neighborhood burger joint! Their menu features over 20 delicious burger options, a tasty selection of appetizers and mouthwatering Mmmac n’ Cheese. Choose from over 150 bottle, can and draft beer options to enjoy while watching the week’s biggest games on one of their 30 HD flat screen TVs. Score!

230 Third Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910 (619) 371-3322 tavernatthevogue.com

660 Carlsbad Village Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 (442) 333-9090 coldbeers.com

Sycuan Casino Resort 5469 Casino Way El Cajon, CA 92019 (619) 659-3374 bullandbourbon.com

WANT TO BE PART OF THE PACIFIC MAGAZINE STREET TEAM?

322 5th Ave., San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 546-9292

We are looking for brand ambassadors that are reliable, outgoing and love to talk to people to work promotions at bars, restaurants and events around San Diego. Interested in joining? Email your resume to

lifescool@pacificsandiego.com

and tell us something cool about yourself!

Must be 21+ and have reliable transportation. Shifts are available all around San Diego and can range from 2-8 hours, typically on weekdays during the evening and on weekends. Pay is $15-$20 per hour, depending on experience. @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

TAST E | BEER

Take it from the Tap

A HOLLY, JOLLY SINGALONG

A monthly taste of beer from here

Go: O’Brien’s Pub (4646 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa) for its annual Christmas carol party.

BY PETER ROWE

Ho: For this jolly event, you don’t need a trained voice or a great memory. All the selections are seasonal greatest hits, and the pub supplies handouts with each song’s lyrics. And everyone sounds mellow after a pint. Ho: Wear holiday attire. Or don’t. Your choice. But, really, you’ll have more fun if you show up in something merry and bright. Know: The Dec. 19 festivities run from 7 to 8 p.m. Come early for a seat — O’Brien’s is often crowded, and the pub will make room for a violinist, cellist and guitarist. Pro tip: There will be holiday beers on tap, but don’t overlook the bottle list. O’Brien’s inventory is among the county’s deepest, and among its jewels are numerous domestic and imported holiday brews.

A LOCAL BEER TO SPEND SOME TIME WITH Beer: 4Seasons Winter From: Mother Earth Brew Co. Why: Short of canning Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, it’s hard to imagine a more Christmasy brew. Mint, chocolate, caramel-malts? They’re all here, in a smooth imperial mint chocolate stout. Crack one open by the ﬁreplace, and you’ll be hanging those stockings with care and without a care in the world. Geek out: 10.8 percent alcohol by volume; 55 International Bittering Units; Magnum and Hallertau hops; a host of malts — pale 2-row, dark crystal, roasted barley, chocolate malt, rye malt. Seek out: Mother Earth’s beers are all around the West Coast. Look in your betterstocked markets and liquor stores.

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

BRUNCH DIRECTORY OLD TOWN TEQUILA FACTORY & CANTINA 2467 Juan St., Old Town (across from Heritage Park) 619.260.8124 | oldtowntequilafactory.com

(buffet style)

A spectacular scenic hillside spot for your Saturday or Sunday Champagne brunch with panoramic views from the Coronado Islands, over Old Town to Mission Bay. This traditional Mexican buffet, served 9 a.m. to 2 p.m, features sizzling steak, shrimp, carnitas or chicken fajitas and includes favorites like fresh menudo and pozole, cheese enchiladas, homemade chile rellenos, agave glazed ribs, ﬂowing Champagne and more. At $26.99 (kids under 12, $12.99), it’s perfect for bridal/baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, holiday parties and reunions.

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................

CHINA MAX (table service) 4698 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa 858.650.3333 | chinamaxsd.com

Experience the true delight of an authentic Chinese dim sum brunch, dozens of varieties (from $2.45) and their famous regular menu. Served Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.

KAISERHOF GERMAN AMERICAN RESTAURANT

2253 Sunset Cliffs Blvd., Ocean Beach 619.224.0606 | kaiserhofrestaurant.com

(table service)

Enjoy Sunday brunch in Kaiserhof’s award-winning and quaint German American restaurant. Served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. the brunch menu features dishes such as German pancakes, eggs benedict, Kaiserschmarren, steak & eggs, poached salmon, omelets and more. Includes a glass of Champagne, mimosa or orange juice and fresh rolls and butter. From $12.95.

OLD TOWN COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL & RESTAURANT 2660 Calhoun St., Old Town 619.297.1874 | oldtowncosmopolitan.com

(table service)

A blend of American and Mexican favorites served in their uniquely historic setting, either on the patio or indoors. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with entrees starting at $7.95 and $7 mimosas and Champagne. Kids under 12 eat free (one per paid adult). Additional kids, $5.95.

HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS

1800 N. Harbor Drive 619.686.8700 | hornblower.com

(buffet style)

Take brunch off land! Hornblower’s Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise features free-ﬂowing bubbly and mimosas, unbeatable views of San Diego’s sights, and live music from Dave Scott Duo (KUSI’s Weatherman!) on the Sun Deck. This relaxing 2-hour cruise includes a buffet stocked with classic breakfast dishes, a seafood display, seasonal lunch entrees and a twenty-foot dessert bar! Available Saturdays and Sundays. Save $5 with code CB5D. Expires 12/30/19, up to 6 guests, new orders only, cannot be combined.

94TH AERO SQUADRON

(buffet style) 8885 Balboa Ave., Kearny Mesa 858.560.6771 | 94thsandiego.com

Join 94th Aero Squadron Sunday for their Champagne buffet brunch. Buffet includes omelet bar and eggs benedict, Belgian wafﬂe station, carved meats, fajita station, pasta station, dessert station, chocolate fountain and much more. Served from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with an early brunch special from 9 a.m to 10 a.m. Early pricing is $29.95 and regular pricing is $34.95 (per adult). Children ages 4-10 are $16.95.

$25

$50

$100

Buy in Gift Cards and Get a

Bonus Card

$10

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Buy in Gift Cards and Get a

Bonus Card

$10

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GROOVE MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE

SOUND DECISIONS BY SCOTT MCDONALD

12.17

Silversun Pickups

Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Widow’s Weeds, the ﬁfth full-length album from L.A.-based pop-rock quartet was released in June. It’s the band’s ﬁrst album in four years. Be sure to ask a friend with tickets for an early Christmas present on this one. It’s already sold out..

CLAIRE MARIE VOGEL

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

New Album Release

The

Friday, December 6 â&#x20AC;¢ 10 pm at MERROW

www.sluka.com

G ROOVE

Sound Decisions December concert calendar BY SCOTT MCDONALD

12.5

The 1975

Pechanga Arena, pechangaarenasd.com Notes on a Conditional Form, the 1975’s fourth studio album, won’t be released until February 2020, but the British poprock band has already released three singles from it: The 1975, People and Frail State of Mind. This 91X-sponsored show also features performances from Catﬁsh and the Bottlemen, IDKHOW and Fashion Jackson.

KATIE FALKENBERG

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.1

A$AP Ferg

House of Blues, houseofblues.com/ sandiego A cornerstone of Harlembased hip-hop collective A$AP Mob, rapper A$AP Ferg (aka Darold Ferguson Jr.) released his latest nine-track collection, Floor Seats, in August. Guest appearances on the new album include Ty Dolla $ign, MadeinTYO and Rico Nasty. Ferg also features on Big Sean’s latest single, Bezerk.

GETTY IMAGES

12.3 THE MAKE-UP

12.3 ANGEL OLSEN

Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com In San Diego last year between appearances at Coachella’s dual weekends, Olsen returns to America’s Finest City with a new album under her belt. Released in October, All Mirrors is the fourth full-length for the singer/songwriter, and is part of a two-volume collection. A strippeddown, more acoustic version of the album is expected in the coming months.

CAM E RO N McCOOL

Casbah, casbahmusic.com Hot diggity dog! After reuniting brieﬂy for a short run of shows in 2017, the sporadically playing, Washington, D.C.based post punk band is back on the road. The tour comes in conjunction with the reissue of the band’s classic 1999 album, Save Yourself.

12.5 DIIV

Belly Up, bellyup.com Last year, DIIV performed in San Diego as part of the Desert Daze Festival Caravan alongside Ariel Pink, Suuns, Nick Hakim and JJUUJJUU. Now the Zachary Cole Smith-led rock quartet returns for its own headlining show to promote its latest album, Deceiver. It’s DIIV’s ﬁrst release since Smith checked himself into rehab two years ago for substance abuse. @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

G RO OV E | SOUND DECISIONS

12.5 UNKNOWN MORTAL ORCHESTRA

Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com New Zealand-born, Portlandbased musician/songwriter Ruban Nielson and his psych-rock trio Unknown Mortal Orchestra released their fourth studio album, Sex & Food, in 2018. That was immediately followed by the group’s instrumental ﬁfth album, IC-01 Hanoi, an excursion into ambient noise, freeform, and experimental jazz that was recorded in the Vietnamese capital while working on the Sex & Food sessions.

12.5

Casey Donahew

Moonshine Beach, moonshinebeachsd.com The Texas country singer has lived on the Billboard charts lately, with his last four albums cracking the U.S. Country Top 10. Donahew’s most recent collection, the 15-song One Light Town, was released in July.

12.6 LEE FIELDS AND THE EXPRESSIONS

12.5 BLACK FLAG

House of Blues, houseofblues. com/sandiego Not to be confused with the Keith Morris-fronted FLAG, the pioneering SoCal punks are back and founding guitarist/songwriter Greg Ginn is at the helm. These shows are the ﬁrst the band has performed in over ﬁve years. 76

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

SIMON ERTLER

Music Box, musicboxsd.com Once earning the nickname “Little JB” for his undying love of James Brown (really though, who doesn’t love “the hardest-working man in show business?”), the New Jerseybased soul man and his amazing band head back to San Diego. Their latest album, It Rains Love, was released earlier this year on Big Crown Records.

G RO OV E | S OU ND DE C I S I ON S 12.8 SNOOP DOGG

House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The Doggfather heads back to this neck of the woods after a KAABOO performance in September that included a career spanning set, an in-memoriam section that honored Eazy-E, Tupac, and the Notorious B.I.G., as well as a quartet of (PG-13) poledancing strippers. What will he have in store this time?

CLARE GILLEN AND ALEXANDRE MOOR

12.8

Kim Petras 12.11 SON LITTLE

Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Despite being a month or so late, this show is for anyone looking for something a little spooky during the holiday season. The German-born, L.A.-based pop singer/songwriter released her Halloween-inspired album, Turn Off The Light, in October.

Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Aaron Earl Livingston, aka L.A.-based singer, songwriter and musician Son Little, is set to release his new album, Aloha, in January. Livingston teased the album by releasing the ďŹ vesong Invisible EP in October, primarily comprised of tracks from the upcoming new collection.

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.12 THIEVERY CORPORATION

Belly Up, bellyup.com Yes. The Washington D.C.-based, sitar-tinged beatmakers are returning to San Diego for another show at the Belly Up. But what makes this night all the more interesting is the fact that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bringing New York electro-pop quartet Brazilian Girls with them. Get there early for this one.

MAKE A

Great Food Great Drinks Great Entertainment

endar l a C t n e m in a t r e t December En

DECEMBER 7 @ 7PM

ICONIC INTERNATIONAL AIR HOSTESS

PAM ANN “PAM ANN LANDING”

DECEMBER 5 @ 8PM

SINGER, PIANIST AND SONG STYLIST

DARYL SHERMAN “AN EVENING WITH DARYL SHERMAN” DECEMBER 10 @ 8PM LAKE AND THE EXISTENCE “LOVE ACTUALLY”

DECEMBER 11 @ 8PM FRENCHIE DAVIS “SOULFUL FOR THE HOLIDAYS” DECEMBER 12, 7-10PM

NO COVER!

SINATRA’S BIRTHDAY WITH CHANCE TOBAR

MONDAY - HAPPY HOUR ALL NIGHT LONG! (OVERLOOK BAR ONLY) TUESDAY - SUNDAY HAPPY HOUR 4PM-7PM AND 10PM - CLOSE

DECEMBER 9 @ 8PM

DECEMBER 31 @ 10PM

THE QUEEN OF SASS

AUBREY LOGAN “A SASSY CHRISTMAS”

(DOORS OPEN AT 8PM)

RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH TY HERNDON

DECEMBER 14 @ 7PM ANNA DANES AND FRIENDS “HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS” DECEMBER 15 @ 5:30PM

FUNDRAISER WITH DINNER AND SHOW

AN EVENING OF HOLIDAY MAGIC

DECEMBER 17 @ 8PM LEIGH SCARRITT PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS “STARS OF TODAY & STARS OF THE FUTURE”

DECEMBER 18 @ 8PM SUZANNE WESTENHOEFER “FEARLESS, BOLD, UNAPOLOGETIC & FREAKING HILARIOUS” DECEMBER 19 @ 8PM THE SKIVVIES “I TOUCH MY ELF” DECEMBER 21 @ 7PM DANIELLE FORSGREN, JOE SAVANT AND RAYME SCIARONI “A QUIET KIND OF CHRISTMAS”

DECEMBER 22 @ 1PM

(DOORS OPEN AT 11AM)

BABETTE SCHWARTZ “BABETTE’S CHRISTMAS BINGO BRUNCH” DECEMBER 24, 4-10PM

WITH CAROL CURTIS FROM 7-10PM

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER DECEMBER 29 @ NOON

ROSS MATHEWS PRESENTS

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Full Concert Calendar, Tickets & More info: ma4sd.com/shows

G RO OV E | S OU ND DE C I S I ON S 12.13 ALLAH-LAS

Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com In October, the ex-Amoeba-staffersturned-psych-rockers returned with their fourth studio album, LAHS. The new collection features drummer Matthew Correia singing in Portuguese on the song Prazer Em Te Conhecer, while the video for album cut In The Air spoofs 1989 comedy ﬁlm Weekend at Bernie’s.

12.16 KIEFER SUTHERLAND

Belly Up, bellyup.com After a couple of years away, the 24 and Lost Boys actor returns to the Belly Up. While a tour bus staircase injury forced Sutherland to postpone a handful of dates earlier this summer, it seems the multitalented performer is back in action and ready to play songs from his latest album, the April-released Reckless & Me.

12.17 CHRIS ISAAK

Belly Up, bellyup.com Speaking of sold-out shows, hey, Chris Isaak is coming back to town. And while that’s not all that special in and of itself, I mean, Isaak has to be an honorary San Diegan at this point, right? The singer/actor is swapping venues from Humphreys (where he performed in August) to the far smaller Belly Up for his annual holiday show.

12.21

Phantom Planet 80

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Phantom Planet, the L.A.-based pop rock outfit that originally boasted actor Jason Schwartzman as its drummer, has officially reunited. While there’s no Schwartzman this time around, the band is set to play its first shows since 2012 and release new music for the first time since 2008.

G RO OV E | S OU ND DE C I S I ON S

12.28

The Crystal Method

Music Box, musicboxsd.com Scott Kirkland returns to the Music Box for the third year in a row as The Crystal Method. The Trip Home, the band’s ﬁrst album without longtime member Ken Jordan, was released last year and it’s reported that even more new music is on the way.

12.29-30 DONAVON FRANKENREITER

Belly Up, bellyup.com It’s a thing now. The people’s favorite surfer/musician returns for yet another pair of shows at the Belly Up after playing a two-night dip on almost exactly the same dates last year. Dude, like, Happy New Year!

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.31 BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY

House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? Clearly that’s not referencing the veteran hip-hip outﬁt that returns to the Gaslamp venue after last playing there in April. But there are far worse ways to ring in the New Year than hanging with this Grammy-nominated crew.

12.31 STEEL PULSE

Belly Up, bellyup.com Sure. The veteran U.K. roots reggae act (still fronted by band founder David Hinds) is heading back to San Diego after closing down summer here with a show at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. But after releasing Mass Manipulation, its ﬁrst album of original music in more than 15 years, the iconic act returns to help close down 2019.

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G RO OV E | LOCAL BAND SPOTLIGHT

LAUREN WILSON

Twin Ritual band members are from left, Anthony Ramirez on bass, Mike Buehl on drums, Laura Levenhagen on vocals and synth and Tony Estrada on guitar.

Twin Ritual is ‘settling into a groove’

PACIFIC hangs with indie band to discuss inspiration, obstacles and duality BY SARA BUTLER

an Diego’s music scene isn’t the same as it was three years ago. But neither is Twin Ritual. The local indie band formed in late 2016, when Anthony Ramirez saw Laura Levenhagen sing with her band Le Chateau. “I had a lot of music and music ideas written that I didn’t think fit for my other band,” said Ramirez, who is also in the music group Glass Spells. “So I reached out to her and said ‘Do you wanna jam out, see what happens?’ and we just started with a few songs and we went on from there.”

In that initial meeting, the duo wrote Hand Through The Mist, one of the band’s first singles. Adding guitarist Nathan Leutzinger and drummer Lionel Hernandez into the mix, the foursome coined themselves Twin Ritual, a name inspired by the concept of duality. “Music itself and life itself is all about the dichotomy of bad and good and dark and light,” Levenhagen said. “Good is only as good as it can be if you’ve experienced bad at all. Pretty much everything we do is about the twin ritual of the combination of opposites.”

12.28 TWIN RITUAL WITH PAPER FOXES PRESENTED BY DISCO GOTH Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Twin Ritual got lucky early on and connected with producer Dave Trumfio, known for his work with popular acts like Wilco and OK Go. In 2018, Trumfio produced Twin Ritual’s well-received debut EP Hand Through The Mist. Then came the departure of two band members, leaving Twin Ritual a little shaken up. But with the bad comes the good, and drummer Mike Buehl (of electronic trio L1ght Ra1l) and guitarist Tony Estrada (from poppunk band Allweather) were soon added to the family. Now, Twin Ritual is stronger than ever. In addition to performing gigs at The Casbah, Blonde and Space Bar, the band released two new singles,

Strangers and Norma Jean, and made its festival debut at Wonderfront Music and Arts Festival last month. Despite the success, the group admits there are still some kinks. “You know in psychology they tell you when you form a team or a group (that) it’s the forming, the norming, the storming and the performing? I think we’re somewhere in the middle of norming — establishing how we do things, and just sorting through everything we gotta figure out,” Estrada said. “I think we are really settling into a groove and figuring out how we’re going to do this,” Levenhagen added.

New dynamics: The union of Levenhagen, Ramirez, Buehl and Estrada has created a more collaborative process than before, resulting in new tunes that everyone lends a hand in creating. Twin Ritual now has three new tracks in the works, which it plans to record and release next year. Inspiration in the clouds: One of the new tracks is called Airplane Mode, which Levenhagen wrote from, well, an airplane. “Getting on an airplane always makes me so much more introspective, so I always make sure that I have my journal with me,” she said, adding that the song was inspired by her friend going through a really rough time. Lyrics like “You keep your face toward the light” return the listener back to the idea of life’s duality. Sounds of the past: Twin Ritual’s music is inﬂuenced by dance rock, post punk and synth pop. “We’ve been compared to bands from the ’80s a lot, and I think that we are keeping with that vibe, but I feel like we’re bringing (our sound) a little more modern,” Levenhagen said. Utilizing the talents of Buehl and Estrada, the next batch of recordings will swap programmed drums with live instrumentation, and add in some more upbeat guitar riffs. All over the map: With the band members’ homes and day jobs spread out all over San Diego — Carlsbad, Golden Hill, UTC and City

LAUREN WILSON

Twin Ritual performs at San Diego Content Partners, an underground DIY event space and rehearsal studio where the group often practices. The venue is run by local musician Cara Potiker, who performs in the band L1ght Ra1l with Buehl.

Heights — coordinating rehearsals can get a little complicated. But the band notes that the dedication from each member makes it easy. The group splits its rehearsal time between San Diego Content Partners and Superior Sound, ﬁtting in practice whenever and wherever they can. They also have a strict policy about canceling last minute. Scene changes: The group has deﬁnitely noticed a shift in the San Diego music scene over the last few years. “(It’s) less douchey, less competitive. The

competition’s still there, but people are less jerks about it,” Buehl said, adding that other musicians are now less likely to snub you at a show. “Everyone who plays in San Diego are in multiple bands … so it’s less about being number one and more (about being) curious about other people’s sounds.” Let’s go to the Disco Goth: One of Twin Ritual’s favorite shows to play is “Disco Goth Night,” a recurring event organized by Ramirez. For each showcase, Ramirez invites a few local bands who play danceable-yet-

dark music to jam together, drawing a large crowd and supportive community that’s fun to perform for. Home is where the fans are: So, would the unsigned group ever move to Los Angeles? “I used to talk about moving there all the time, and I still think about it every now and then, but now we have this big community in San Diego that it would be really hard to give that up,” Levenhagen said, adding that she likes the idea of staying local but playing more L.A. shows in the future.

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

G ROOVE

Spin Cycle December EDM +DJ performances BY SCOTT MCDONALD

12.6

STEVE AOKI

OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Aoki, an OMNIA regular, has already played the club a couple of times this year. But the Grammynominated DJ and entrepreneur returns for his ﬁrst show there since May with a new album under his belt. Aoki’s sixth full-length collection, Neon Future IV, features collaborations with everyone from the Backstreet Boys and actor Darren Criss to Dutch duo Showtek and South Korean boy band Monsta X.

GETTY IMAGES

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

12.6 ILLENIUM

Pechanga Arena, pechangaarenasd.com Nicholas Miller is having a pretty good year. In March, the Denver-based DJ picked up a pair of wins — Best Male Artist (Bass) and Best Remix (Halsey’s Without Me) — at the 2019 International Dance Music awards (IDMAs). Then, in August, Miller released his major-label debut (and third studio album overall), Ascend, which features collaborations with The Chainsmokers, X Ambassadors, Jon Bellion and more.

12.7 SÉBASTIEN LÉGER

Quartyard, quartyardsd.com Over the last two decades, Léger has remixed the likes of Armand Van Helden, Justin Timberlake, Kylie Minogue, Deadmau5 and Daft Punk. The French producer and house DJ has released four studio albums, and more than 20 EPs, in that same time as well. The savvy vet heads to Quartyard on a bill that also includes Oﬁer and Andrew Wilkinson.

12.7 GRYFFIN

SOMA, somasandiego.com In October, instead of releasing a followup to his 2018 debut EP, Gravity, Pt. 1, New York house DJ and classically trained pianist Dan Griffith repackaged the EP’s six songs with 10 new ones for his fulllength studio debut, simply titled Gravity. Among the new tracks were collaborations with Aloe Blacc, Carly Rae Jepsen, Gorgon City, Slander and Seven Lions.

12.13 CRANKDAT

OMNIA, omnianightclub.com Twenty-two-year-old trap producer Christian Smith infamously gave up a full-ride athletic scholarship at Kent State to DJ. And after landing official remixes for the likes of Swedish House Maﬁa, Travis Scott, Post Malone, Skrillex, Jaden Smith and The Chainsmokers, it seems like that wasn’t such a bad idea. Now Smith is making music of his own: a debut EP Gearworld, Vol. 1, and the Octoberreleased Fearworld.

12.20 INFECTED MUSHROOM

Music Box, musicboxsd.com Israeli trance duo Infected Mushroom (aka Erez Eisen and Amit Duvdevani) released its 11th studio album, Head of NASA and the 2 Amish Boys, at the end of last year. The pair’s ﬁrst release on Canadian indie label Monstercat (Marshmello, Slushii, Vicetone), the seven-song collection also features lyrics in English, Hebrew and Arabic.

12.21 GETTER

Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Getter, aka electro house DJ, producer and actor Tanner Petulla, released his debut studio album, Visceral, last year on Deadmau5’s Mau5trap label. He also stars in the Facebook Watch parody series Real Bros of Simi Valley as recurring character Bryce Meyer.

12.21 EDX

Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Over the years, Swiss-born Italian DJ and producer Maurizio Colella has remixed the likes of Avicii, Tiësto, Janelle Monae, Beyoncé, Calvin Harris, Charli XCX and more. He even picked up a 2019 Grammy nomination for his Dubai Skyline remix of Charlie Puth’s How Long. Colella has also released a handful of singles this year, including his latest, Neptune.

12.27 CLAPTONE

Spin, spinnightclub.com Most times performing as a single individual, occasionally as a duo, the mysterious, masked German house DJ(s) and CRSSD Fest veteran(s) released his (their) sophomore album, Fantast, last year. And in November, he (they) remixed You Ain’t The Problem from British singer Michael Kiwanuka’s self-titled third album.

12.27 NGHTMRE

OMNIA, omnianightclub.com So, Connecticut-born/L.A.-based producer Tyler Marenyi was at OMNIA in August, before making a quick trip back to San Diego in October for a co-headlining show at Petco Park with dubstep duo Slande. Now, Marenyi is headed back to the downtown club to help close down a year that also saw him collaborate with Lil Jon, Shaquille O’Neal, A$AP Ferg, ZHU and others.

12.7 CARNAGE

Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Guatemalan-born, L.A.-based trap DJ and producer Diamante Blackmon released his sophomore full-length album, Battered Bruised & Bloody, last year. He’s spent 2019 releasing seven new singles, including his most recent, Don’t Get Me Started with Pia Mia and Gunna.

12.29

Claude VonStroke

Spin, spinnightclub.com With a given name like Barclay Macbride Crenshaw, it’s hard to imagine needing a stage name. But such is the case with L.A. tech house DJ and Dirtybird Records boss Claude VonStroke. However, it did allow the producer and documentary ﬁlmmaker to release a hip-hop record under his own name last year, while continuing to put out singles under his long-running adopted moniker.

SHAUNA REGAN

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

LOVE | BLIND DATE

Ice To Meet You

BY JENNIFER IANNI PHOTOS BY MISAEL VIRGEN MATCHMAKER COLLEEN PERONE

Blind daters skate around the edges of romance

an Diego winters can be brutal. The days are shorter. It’s freezing, with daytime highs sometimes barely breaking 65 degrees. We have to wear coats. It might even rain. Which is why, during the winter months, most people prefer staying indoors, where all they need is a warm blanket, a roaring fire in the fireplace (even candles will do), a cozy cocktail and a Netflix subscription.

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

That can get lonely, though, so why not try to find a partner during “cuffing season?” With this in mind, PACIFIC set out to save two singles from another cold winter alone. Meet Logan, a man who knows his way around (and behind) a bar, and Katlyn, a sassy native who’s looking to heat things up. We met Logan on our November blind date at The Guild hotel, where he worked as the hotel’s beverage manager. Logan eyed the situation and

gamely offered to participate in the next date, showing the kind of blind confidence we look for in a dater. Which leads us to our current date: Logan and Katlyn have met for the first time in an Epic Limo that’s about to shuttle them to their first destination: pre-date cocktails at Moniker General in Liberty Station. But before things warm up, let’s get to know the daters better via their pre-date interviews.

LOVE | BLIND DATE Where are you from and where do you live now? KATLYN: Born and raised in San Diego. I currently live in Kensington. LOGAN: Vernalis, Calif. I currently live in Golden Hill.

climbed out of the back window of a restaurant on a bad date once before.) LOGAN: Don’t be mean to others. Fill in the blanks: I want my date to be “blank” and “blank.” KATLYN: Spicy and spontaneous. LOGAN: Non-nervous and fun.

How old are you? KATLYN: 31 years old. LOGAN: 32 years old.

Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less? KATLYN: No, but the second will (insert awkward wink). LOGAN: Anything is possible.

What do you do for a living? KATLYN: I work for a digital marketing agency. LOGAN: Beverage manager at The Guild Hotel. What’s your Instagram handle? KATLYN: @missconnolly LOGAN: @loge_a_saurus How long have you been single? KATLYN: About a year. LOGAN: About 10 months. Currently, what dating apps can be found on your phone? KATLYN: None. I’m taking a sabbatical. LOGAN: Hinge.

Where can you be found on the weekends? KATLYN: Either gallivanting on rooftop bars with my fabulous girlfriends, or sucked into a Netflix true crime documentary on my couch. LOGAN: Working — industry life. What are you best at? KATLYN: Spending money. LOGAN: Making cocktails/golf. What do you suck at? KATLYN: Remembering to blow out my candles before I leave the house. LOGAN: Anything artistic. What are you looking for in a date, physical or otherwise? KATLYN: A handsome gentleman who is unapologetically himself, appreciates good sarcasm and doesn’t take himself (or the date) too seriously. LOGAN: Physical?!?

The St. Lucy’s Passion seasonal cocktail

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Why do you think you’ll be a good date? KATLYN: I can keep up, and have

no problem having the best damn time while doing so. LOGAN: Confidence.

Just based on these answers, it’s clear that Katlyn and Logan need each other this winter: Katlyn needs someone to make her a cocktail while she’s bingeing true crime docs on her couch this winter (and also to remind her to blow out her candles). And Logan needs Katlyn to help him with his Twitter and also hang out with him when he’s not working crazy industry hours. Before Katlyn jumps out a back window, let’s jump back into their date, shall we?

Describe your special brand of sex appeal in a Tweet. KATLYN: Sassy & classy. LOGAN: I don’t Tweet. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. KATLYN: 10. I’m my biggest fan. My heart, soul and ass are on point. LOGAN: 4.634. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality. KATLYN: 11. Ain’t another out there quite like it. LOGAN: 5.872. What’s your cocktail of choice? KATLYN: Skinny margarita. (Three limes, please.) LOGAN: Tequila. What’s a total deal-breaker on a date? KATLYN: If our energy doesn’t align. If it feels forced, it’s not for me. (I may or may not have

The Sunday Candy cocktail

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LOVE | BL I N D DAT E

On Thin Ice? Daters cool down at the rink

atlyn and Logan settle in for some pre-date cocktails at Moniker General in Liberty Station. Moniker General is a storefront that combines retail, coffee and cocktails all under one roof. Katlyn decides to try the Sunday Candy, a blend of grapefruit liqueur, Tito’s Vodka, lime and sparkling rosé.

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Cocktail expert Logan decides that the St. Lucy’s Passion — a special seasonal cocktail made with cinnamon whiskey, bourbon and Demerara syrup mixed into a chai latte — will get him into the spirit. After a couple of cocktails, the daters walk to the nearby Rady Children’s Ice Rink. Liberty Station is decked out for the holidays. The trees are wrapped in bright white lights, which makes for a perfect photo opp. The ice rink technically isn’t open to the public yet, but they agreed to open up especially for our daters for a private skate sesh. It’s a holiday miracle! Logan and Katlyn start lacing up their skates, but Logan quickly breaks one of this laces.

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LOVE | BLIND DATE Hopefully this isn’t a precursor to how they’ll do on the ice, or how this date will turn out. Logan gets a replacement skate and soon, he and Katlyn are whizzing around the rink like expert skaters. They aren’t exactly skating in sync, but they do hold hands while rounding the corners. Katlyn is the only one to take a fall on the ice, but Logan is there to pick her right back up. They’re loving every minute of it, with the lights and the speakers blasting Christmas classics like Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You and Wham!’s Last Christmas adding to the magic of this date. After they’ve worn themselves out skating, we separate Katlyn and Logan for their mid-date interviews. How’s it going so far? KATLYN: It’s going really well. I’m having a blast. I really am. LOGAN: It’s going good. I’ve never been on a blind date, let alone one for a magazine, so it’s been going good.

Does your date want to kiss you? KATLYN: Yes. LOGAN: No. Is this someone you’d take home to mom, or just take home? KATLYN: I think I would take him home to mom. LOGAN: She seems like someone I could take home to mom.

At first glance, would you swipe right or left on your date? KATLYN: I would have swiped right. LOGAN: Right’s the good one? I haven’t been on Tinder in a long time. Right, for sure. She’s pretty. Is this the type of person you’d normally date? KATLYN: (Pauses) No… LOGAN: No. She’s very welldressed. I’ve dated all kinds, but seeing each other in a bar, I’d probably think she wouldn’t be into some tatted-up guy. How has your experience at the Rady Children’s Ice Rink been? KATLYN: It’s been so fun. It’s very Christmas-y, Mariah Carey is on, I’m in ice skates. LOGAN: That was epic. It reminded me of Billy Madison. What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far? KATLYN: He picked me up off the ice when I fell down. That was very attractive. Besides the lower hand grab that he does when he 94

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

How and when will the date end? KATLYN: The sky’s the limit, baby. LOGAN: I think we still have another half to go, so we’ll see.

escorts me into any room. I love that. I think that’s sexy. LOGAN: Made me laugh. That’s the key right there. What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far? KATLYN: I don’t know, I don’t have an answer for that. LOGAN: Honest to God, having cameras around, it’s a little awkward. It’s a nice warmup, it’s not a full first date. It’s a nice warmup. Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks. KATLYN: Eight.

LOGAN: Seven. And for personality? KATLYN: I give him a nine. He has a good personality. LOGAN: Eight. What’s your date’s most attractive physical quality? KATLYN: It’s a mix between his tattoos and his teeth. He has really good teeth. LOGAN: Her smile. Do you want to kiss your date right now? KATLYN: Maybe. LOGAN: Right now? No.

Katlyn and Logan are having a blast on the date and enjoyed skating around the rink like they were kids again. They can’t stop laughing, which is good, since Logan says that Katlyn’s sense of humor is the most attractive thing about her and Katlyn says Logan’s teeth are his most attractive physical quality. And while they both think this is someone they could potentially take home to mom (maybe next Christmas?), Logan’s having a little trouble warming up to the cameras and the presence of the PACIFIC crew. But he shouldn’t worry because before Logan knows it, they’ll be left alone for a cozy Italian dinner for two.

SPORTS | FOOTBALL

PROMOTION

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JOHNNY B’S BURGERS • BREW • SPIRITS The place in La Mesa to watch ALL the NFL & College games. LA MESA - 8393 La Mesa Blvd. (619) 464-2465 johnnybsburgersandbrew.com

DRAFT REPUBLIC Watch your favorite NFL Team on 18+ flat screen TV’s and video wall. Enjoy Gridiron Sunday Specials including breakfast burritos, mimosas flights and $5 Bloody Mary’s. Choose from a huge section of beer, craft cocktails and delicious American cuisine. Doors open on Sundays at 9:30am. Get your game on with billiards, ping pong, foosball, shuffleboard and arcade games. CARLSBAD - 5958 Avenida Encinas (760) 448-4627 draftrepubliccarlsbad.com LA JOLLA - 4282 Esplanade Court (858) 450-1400 draftrepublic.com

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1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar | (858) 755-9345 POSEIDONRESTAURANT.COM @PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

LOVE | BLIND DATE

Cold Feet Blind date freezes over

he daters are still in good spirits as they walk toward dinner at Officine Buona Forchetta. The Liberty Station location is the second iteration of the famed San Diego restaurant, following the original in South Park. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s known for Neopolitan-style pizzas served in an authentically Italian environment. Katlyn and Logan are given the entire back patio to enjoy their dinner. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re immediately served prosecco, and their meal starts off with artichoke hearts, followed by an Angelica pizza for her and a calzone for him (and more wine, naturally). The conversation is flowing and before long, the PACIFIC crew leaves the two to enjoy the rest of their evening. We checked in with them the next day to see where things stood. How did everything go last night? KATLYN: It was so much fun. LOGAN: It was fun. I had a good time. Good company. Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after Officine Buona Forchetta? KATLYN: We chatted on the patio alone, and then we went home. I had an early day. LOGAN: We hung out for a little bit longer and then we went to her house and then I went home after. Did you guys exchange numbers? KATLYN: Yes, we did. LOGAN: We did. I got her phone number. 96

DECEMBER 2019 @PACIFICSD

Was there a kiss or romantic exchange? KATLYN: No, there wasn’t. I don’t even think I hugged him, I don’t know. LOGAN: No, nothing like that. What was the best part of the date and why? KATLYN: Best part of the date was ice skating because we had the whole rink to ourselves, which was pretty cool. LOGAN: Ice skating was pretty cool. It was fun. It reminded me of Billy Madison, like I said earlier. It was great. Will there be a second date? Why or why not? KATLYN: I didn’t get the romantic vibe, but Logan was a ton of fun to hang out with. LOGAN: I don’t think we’re going to have a second date. I might reach out later, but besides having jokes, there wasn’t much time to really get intimate. So I don’t think there will be a second one. Great company, though. It was not a bad night. Any final thoughts, parting words, shout-outs or anything else to add? KATLYN: Shout out to PACIFIC magazine for having me on the date. I’ve always wanted to do it and I’m glad I did. I had a blast.

LOGAN: Thanks for the whole night. It was a great experience. It’s hard to be mad at a date where the daters enjoyed each other’s company, but didn’t spark any romance. Katlyn and Logan both loved ice skating and managed to do so without any major injuries. And even though these two daters won’t be cuddling up this winter, we hope they at least went home with their bellies filled with pizza and a little more holiday spirit than before. So let’s raise a glass to another cuffing season in San Diego. We hope you find your own seasonal relationship, and that all you good boys and girls get exactly what you want this year. Cheers!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Daters’ answers may have been edited for length and clarity.

SPECIAL THANKS TO AND PROMOTIONAL CONSIDERATION FROM: EPIC LIMO 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com MONIKER GENERAL 619.255.8772, monikergeneral.com RADY CHILDREN’S ICE RINK 619.221.1970, radyfoundation.org/icerink OFFICINE BUONA FORCHETTA 619.548.5770, ofﬁcinebuonaforchetta.com MATCHMAKER COLLEEN PERONE naturalselectionsd.com

@PACIFICSD DECEMBER 2019

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SHOP LOCAL BUY LOCAL FROM LOCALS

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM MOSSY VOLKSWAGEN

VOLKSWAGEN 695 Auto Park Way S, Escondido, CA 92029 | 760-745-7551