PACIFIC San Diego, December 2016 by Pacific San Diego Magazine

SPREAD HOLIDAY BEER Happy holidays from the original light beer

Ocean Views...

EDITOR’S NOTE

as far as the eye can sea.

Outstanding oceanfront dining in the heart of Del Mar. Since 1968.

Poseidon on the beach 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar | (858) 755-9345 | poseidonrestaurant.com

HIGH THERE

s the Golden State goes (make that “grows”) green, California will soon say hello to the next Gold Rush. In passing Prop 64*, the state’s voters elected to legalize marijuana for non-medical use for people aged 21 and older – which means a mother lode of tourists and tax revenues… and fewer Five-O bummin’ your irie. While Santa may not smoke joints (as he’s doing on the cover of this magazine), dude sure eats a lot of cookies. Or maybe eggnog causes munchies? Either way, St. Nick probably stays sober while driving the sleigh, but you gotta know Dancer, Prancer and Vixen get high on Christmas Eve. And Blitzen? He was so blitzed, he almost fell off my neighbor’s roof. No one else but me could see him jumping around up there and photo bombing Rudolph, but whatever. I could sure go for a cookie right now. The late, great Joan Rivers once said, “The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband.” May ye receive the present(s) you’re wishing for this holiday season, Dear Reader. And if you’ve been dreaming of a green X-mas, may your halls be decked with boughs (of OG Kush). This is the final issue of PACIFIC’s 10th year in print. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you for reading. Happy New Year! Sincerely,

David Perloff, Editor-in-Chief *California Prop 64 voting results (at time of publishing) – yes 56.1%, no 43.9% (San Diego County); yes 56.5%, no 43.5% (statewide).

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

e n O y u B ll* o R n o Cinnam ne Free O t e G &

*Mention you saw us in PACIFIC to redeem

VOLUME #10 ISSUE #12 DECEMBER 2016

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

David Perloff EDITORS

Leslie Hackett, Michael James Rocha C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

Kenny Boyer MANAGING EDITOR

Jennifer Ianni DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

John McCutchen ONLINE EDITOR

Michelle Dederko S TA F F W R I T E R

Liz Bowen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Benninger, Lisa Deaderick, Michelle Dederko, Laurie Delk, Laura Groch, Brandon Hernandez, Pam Kragen, Scott McDonald, Michele Parente, Karla Peterson, Sarah Pfledderer, Peter Rowe PHOTO EDITORS

Alma Ceseña, David Poller

Award Winning Gourmet Cinnamon Rolls 100% Dairy, Egg & Cholesterol Free

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

K.C. Alfred, Eduardo Contreras, Howard Lipin

As seen on PUBLISHER

David Perloff VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Paul Ingegneri L I F E S T Y L E / E N T E R TA I N M E N T S A L E S

Scott Fisk M U LT I M E D I A A C C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S

Alyson Tietze, Jeremy Lang ADVERTISER SERVICES MANAGER

Edith Zamora

Kiosk at Mission Valley Mall (in front of Macy’s) | 619.546.9991 Paciﬁc Beach, 4652 Mission Blvd. | 858.224.6505 Kiosk at North County Mall, Escondido (1st ﬂoor in front of JC Penney)

www.cinnaholic.com 12

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Greg Johannsen

A SUBSIDIARY OF THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE Reach America’s finest readers via print, web, social media, email, street team and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! PacificSD is a media property owned by The San Diego Union-Tribune.

619.296.6300 | PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM | @PACIFICSD

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P A C I F I C R E A L E S T A T E M A R K E T W A T C H

PACIFIC BEACH 92109 Stunning contemporary Pacific Beach 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering panoramic views of Mission Bay, Downtown and beyond. Exceptionally upgraded home offers open and bright floorplan with expansive windows, Viking Professional and Asko appliances, European Custom cabinetry, new high-efficiency heating-andair system, whole-home water filtration, high-end and recessed lighting fixtures. Enjoy spectacular views with balconies and decks on every floor. Gated entry with custom water feature and low-maintenance landscaping. 2443 La Marque St. Pacific Beach, 92109. $2,299,900

MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI Broker/Realtor (R)

1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116, 619.787.6852, BRE # 01380034 MelissaTucci.com, Sold@MelissaTucci.com No. 1 ranked Coldwell Banker agent/broker and official real estate agent of the San Diego Padres.

MARKET UPDATE The market is still strong going into fourth quarter. Interest rates remain low, and more inventory is coming on the market, which means there are more options for buyers. Thanks to the beautiful weather and additional tourism during this time of year, the holiday season typically doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t impact real estate transactions in this part of the country. 2016 should finish strong and lead us into a great first quarter of 2017 as well. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a great time to sell and buy in San Diego. MARKET STATS (October 2016 data shown) Homes for sale: 115 Homes sold: 22 Highest price: $4,250,000 Lowest price: $269,995 Median home price: $931,322

CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2016

FEATURES ON THE COVER: “Dreaming of a Green X-mas,” by R. Black (rblack.org). ON THIS PAGE: Fashion and travel blogger Nihan Gorkem (pictured in front of Little Italy’s El Camino restaurant) wants a “chic, round, marble coffee table” for Christmas. See story, page 49. Photo by K.C. Alfred.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

49 YULE BLOG

Fashionistas and other social stars share their gifts

58 IT’S A MALL WORLD AFTER ALL

What’s in store at San Diego’s shopping centers

P A C I F I C R E A L E S T A T E M A R K E T W A T C H

DOWNTOWN 92101 Welcome to Pinnacle, arguably the best location in Downtown San Diego. Enjoy beautiful bay views and sunsets from the living room, dining room and kitchen of this NW corner, 2-bedroom, 2-bath luxury property. Features include an open entertaining floorplan with sweeping walls of 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, 2 generous balconies, marble floors, Italian Snaidero cabinetry, Sub-Zero fridge, Bosch appliances with 2 ovens, wine cooler, Kholer fixtures, dual-zone AC, 2-car parking and storage.Â 550 Front Street, San Diego, 92101. $999,900

MARKET UPDATE You may think the market slows down around the upcoming holiday season, but, in reality, the San Diego market is still hot, even during the holidays. We are still dealing with a shortage of homes for sale and a large pool of buyers. If you are looking into selling your home, now is a perfect time to list it. Having a knowledgeable team assisting you in the process will help you reach your desired sales price.Â

CHAD DANNECKER Welcome to San Diego Real Estate Dannecker & Associates 875 G. St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101, 619.356.3099, BRE#01459513 www.WelcomeToSanDiego.com, chad@welcometosandiego.com, @welcometosandiego.com, #welcometosandiego, @WelcometoSD

MARKET STATS (October 2016 data shown) Homes for sale: 155 Homes sold: 77 Highest price: $1,940,000 Lowest price: $230,000 Median home price: $535,000

DECEMBER 2016

CONTENTS

This bottle of 1998 Klug Clos d’Ambonnay Champagne costs only $8,500 at Addison restaurant in Del Mar. For more expensive drinks, see “For Richer or Pourer,” page 88. (Photo by Eduardo Contreas.)

DEPARTMENTS CURRENTS 24 TWELVE.SIXTEEN December events calendar 34 LAUGHING STOCK December stand-up comedy shows

PULSE 36 ART BEAT December gallery & exhibition openings 42 CURTAIN CALLS Performing arts preview

76 MANE COURSE Seafood-forward restaurant Lionfish seeks to become king of the urban jungle 82 TAKE IT FROM THE TAP A monthly taste of beer from here 88 FOR RICHER OR POURER High-priced drinks for expensive tastes 90 LIVING PROOF 101 reasons to visit O’side’s new speakeasy

GROOVE 44 REEL COOL December motion picture preview

TASTE 66 HOW SWEET The 12 days of X-cess

92 SOUNDS LIKE A PLAN December concert calendar 100 TAKE A SPIN Upcoming EDM and DJ shows

LOVE 102 BLIND AMBITIONS A look back at 11 good tries

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

aNaLoG Goes PLaTINUM SAT / DECEMBER 31ST

PHOTOBOOTH COMPLIMENTARY CHAMPAGNE TOAST & BALLOON DROP AT MIDNIGHT Bottle Service • Stevie@analogbar.com / 858.333.5939

TICKETS VENNO.COM/ANALOGGOESPLATINUM 801 5th Ave. San Diego 92101 • analogbar.com

CURRENTS

CALENDAR PG. 24 | COMEDY PG. 34 TWELVE.SIXTEEN DECEMBER EVENTS BY MICHELLE DEDERKO

K.C. ALFRED

The Toast of Downtown

12.10

VENUES THROUGHOUT THE GASLAMP mcfarlanepromotions.com

Raise a glass to downtown’s craft cocktail culture and cuisine at this self-guided tasting tour of various Gaslamp bars and restaurants. CONT. ON PAGE 26

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

christmas day

ONESIE XMAS PARTY come out in your onesie for christmas and receive half off drinks | starts at 3:00 pm | dj chris cutz

4343 ocean blvd pacific beach, ca | 858.272.surf | pbshoreclub.com |

/pacificbeachshoreclub

@pbshoreclub

CUR R ENTS

CALENDAR CONT. FROM PAGE 24

12.2

K.C. ALFRED

CORONADO CHRISTMAS PARADE CORONADO FERRY LANDING, CORONADO coronadochamber.com

H AY N E PA L M O U R I V

Santa shows up in style on a ferry, followed by a festive parade down Orange Avenue and tree lighting by Ol’ Saint Nick himself in Rotary Plaza.

12.2

RED NOSE RUN POWERHOUSE PARK, DEL MAR

rednoserun.info Hit the beach running at this holiday tradition with a 5K and a 3K run/walk along the Del Mar coastline. Top off the day with drinks and an oceanfront view at Poseidon Restaurant after crossing the finish line. EDUARDO CONTRERAS

P H O T O C O U RT E S Y P I Z Z A P O RT

12.2-3

PIZZA PORT’S 20TH ANNUAL STRONG ALE FEST PIZZA PORT BOTTLE SHOP, CARLSBAD pizzaport.com

A RT I FA N - S H U T T E R S T O C K

Drink up at this two-day festival highlighting more than 75 strong ales on draft plus rare bottles (available during the VIP session).

12.3

CHARLIE NEUMAN

NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE & FESTIVAL UNIVERSITY AVE., NORTH PARK

Balboa Park lights up with holiday cheer as more than 350,000 expected attendees enjoy festive food and complimentary admission to the museums over two evenings from 5 to 9 p.m.

toylandparade.com N E LV I N C . C E P E D A

12.2-3

BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS BALBOA PARK, balboapark.org/decembernights

Bundle up for this annual parade that glides down University Avenue with marching bands, dance groups, vintage cars, beauty queens and more. CONT. ON PAGE 28

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

CUR R ENTS

CALENDAR CONT. FROM PAGE 26

K.C. ALFRED C I T Y O F E N C I NI TA S

12.3

ENCINITAS HOLIDAY PARADE COAST HIGHWAY 101, ENCINITAS

ci.encinitas.ca.us

H O WA R D L I P I N

EDUARDO CONTRERAS

At this year’s parade down Coast Highway 101, Encinitas celebrates 30 years of cityhood with themed floats and awesome ’80s costumes.

12.3

LITTLE ITALY TREE LIGHTING INDIA STREET, LITTLE ITALY

littleitalysd.com Christmas magic arrives on the streets of Little Italy in the form live music, holiday beverages and a meet-and-greet with Mr. Claus.

12.3 12.3

CHULA VISTA STARLIGHT PARADE THIRD AVENUE VILLAGE, CHULA VISTA

CAROLS & BARRELS PORT PAVILION AT BROADWAY PIER

starlightparade.com

carolsandbarrels.com MISAEL VIRGEN

Buddy the Elf hosts this festival with drinks from more than 60 breweries and wineries, holiday treats from local restaurants and an ugly sweater contest.

Celebrate the season in downtown Chula Vista with a snow hill at this cheerful neighborhood parade. CONT. ON PAGE 30

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

CUR R ENTS

12.4

CALENDAR

SONO FEST & CHILI COOK-OFF 32ND AND THORN ST., NORTH PARK

CONT. FROM PAGE 28

sonofestchilicookoff.com

12.3

37TH ANNUAL OB HOLIDAY PARADE NEWPORT AVENUE, OCEAN BEACH oceanbeachsandiego.com NANCEE E. LEWIS

See Santa surfing the streets during this annual Ocean Beach parade, which brings out the Point Loma Marching Band, motorcycles, brightly lit floats and bands filling the beach with live music

This annual fundraiser and chili-cooking competition mixes in a craft beer garden, live music and local vendors selling handmade gifts.

CHARLIE NEUMAN

P E G G Y P E AT T I E

12.4

LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE & HOLIDAY FESTIVAL GIRARD AVE., LA JOLLA ljparade.com Themed “Christmas in the future,” this year’s La Jolla Christmas Parade is packed with equestrians, floats and music.

12.10

OCEANSIDE HARBOR PARADE OF LIGHTS OCEANSIDE HARBOR, OCEANSIDE

visitoceanside.org Watch Christmas lights float across the water at this nautical parade of decorated boats and costume-clad captains.

12.11, 18

SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS SAN DIEGO BAY

sdparadeoflights.org

J O H N G A S TA L D O

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

The 45th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights dazzles bayfront crowds over two weekends with a procession of nearly 100 boats decorated to this year’s theme, “It Began with a Roar – San Diego Zoo Celebrates 100 Years.” CONT. ON PAGE 32

Tickets & Table Reservations: tinroofsandiego.com 401 G Street | San Diego | 619.230.8606 | @tinroofsandiego

TWO LOCATIONS!

NORTH PARK

3794 30TH STREET SAN DIEGO, CA 92104

COMING SOON!

DEL SUR TOWN CENTER 16480 PASEO DEL SUR SAN DIEGO, CA 92127

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CUR R ENTS

CALENDAR CONT. FROM PAGE 30

12.11

THE GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE HILTON GASLAMP PARK, DOWNTOWN gaslamp.org

NANCEE E. LEWIS

Furry and feathered companions of all shapes and sizes are invited to don festive costumes and strut in this jolly pet parade.

MISAEL VIRGEN

J O H N G A S TA L D O

CHARLIE NEUMAN

12.19

POINSETTIA BOWL GASLAMP MARCH HORTON PLAZA PARK, DOWNTOWN

12.27

PORT OF SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY BOWL PARADE NORTH HARBOR DRIVE, DOWNTOWN

12.29-1.2

sandiegobowlgames.com

sdautoshow.com

Marching bands and spirit squads kick off the 2016 Poinsettia Bowl with a rousing battle of the bands in the new Horton Plaza Park Amphitheater.

Enormous balloons fill the sky during this parade along downtown’s waterfront as marching bands, floats and drill teams entertain more than 100,000 street-side spectators.

The annual San Diego International Auto Show drives a crowd of a quarter-million to the Convention Center to kick the tires on more than 400 new, exotic and prototype cars.

SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER, DOWNTOWN

K.C. ALFRED

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS 12.3 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 12.18 vs. Oakland Raiders

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

a well balanced diet is a burger in each hand NOW OPEN IN GASLAMP! Fresh Hand Crafted Burgers

20+ HD TVs

coldbeers.com

over 150 beers

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CUR R ENTS

COMEDY

12.1-3 BOBBY LEE

FRANKIE LEAL

“I’ve never met an Asian guy with Down syndrome, but if I did, I’d bet you money he was as smart as the average white guy. Instead of straight A’s he’d gets straight B’s. He only knows one instrument.” — Bobby Lee on This is Not Happening @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

12.1 AL MADRIGAL

12.2-3 DOM IRRERA

B RYA N B E D D E R / G E T T Y I M A G E S F O R T H E N E W Y O R K E R

“I’m actually half-Mexican. Get used to it, ‘cause in about five to 10 years, you’re all gonna be related to one. I guarantee you that whether you like it or not. No matter how much you prepared your family, you’re gonna show up at Thanksgiving one of these years and walk in and say, ‘Hey, what’s happening? Since when did we start serving flan?’ ” — Al Madrigal on Comedy Central Presents @ La Jolla Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

SUSAN MALJAN

“Everybody’s trying to convince me — like there’s something wrong with me — to take Uber. I don’t want to take an Uber. I don’t want to get in a car with a strange guy … The thing that’s funny about Uber to me is the idea like, ‘I used to drink maybe one or two drinks a night, but now I drink all day because I can take Uber. I’m a raging alcoholic because I can take Uber now.’ ” — Dom Irrera on Joe Rogan Experience @ La Jolla Comedy Store, lajolla. thecomedystore.com

LAUGHINGSTOCK DECEMBER STAND-UP COMEDY SHOWS // By Michael Benninger

12.3 AMY SCHUMER

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

12.8-10 JON RUDNITSKY

P E T E R YA N G

“I made out with a homeless guy by accident. I had no idea — he was really tan, he had no shoes on. I just thought it was, like, his thang, you know? I was like, ‘He’s probably in a band.’ ” — Amy Schumer on Comedy Central Presents @ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com

“Texting I find painful, because I wait. I can’t handle it. If a girl doesn’t respond to me in 30 to 40 seconds, I assume the worst: that she’s not into it. You thought I was going to say something more dramatic, like, ‘Worst-case scenario, she’s dead.’ That’s best-case scenario, because then I don’t have to technically deal with the rejection. ‘Oh she got hit by a bus? Thank God, I thought she was just ignoring me.’ ” — Jon Rudnitsky at Gotham Comedy Club @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

12.9-10 STEVE BYRNE

12.30 CHRIS D’ELIA

“My ex would get so drunk and just become a different person. It was like dating the worst Transformer ever.” — Chris D’Elia on Just for Laughs @ The Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com

12.15-17 JOHN CAPARULO

“We’ve been married two years. She wants to have kids. I guess we’re trying. I’m just doing the same sh**, really. Didn’t really adjust my swing on that at all. Less cleanup now, I guess.” — John Caparulo on Live at Gotham @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

M I K E L AW R I E / G E T T Y I M A G E S

“We live in an apartment building right above Ralphs … This Ralphs is on Sunset Boulevard, and it’s open 24 hours a day. You can only imagine the kind of clientele that goes into the rock ’n’ roll Ralphs on Sunset Boulevard at 2 o’clock in the morning on a Saturday night. It looks like Burning Man f**ked Comic-Con in this f**king place. It’s disgusting.” — Steve Rannazzisi on This is Not Happening @ La Jolla Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

CHRISTOPHER POLK/GETTY IMAGES FOR COMEDY CENTRAL

12.16-17 STEVE RANNAZZISI

M I C H A E L S C H WA RT Z

R O B Y N V O N S WA N K

“I’ll tell you who the greatest friend you can have when you’re growing up is. Not only that, I’ll tell you who the greatest human being in our country is right now. You ready? Fat white girls. Fat white girls rock. Fat white girls are ahead of the game. Whatever fat white girls do, it takes the rest of the country a few years to catch up to them, which sounds ironic.” — Steve Byrne on The Late Late Show with James Corden @ La Jolla Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

12.29-31 BIG JAY OAKERSON

“Girls make fathers’ lives very difficult with things they don’t even know. They don’t even realize they’re making it difficult. Laundry. Can’t do laundry anymore with my daughter’s stuff; it’s just uncomfortable. Looking how I look and folding little girl underwear does not appear as if I’m doing a good deed. It looks as if I’m organizing the trophies from all my victims. ‘I remember her. Pigtails. Central Park.’ ” — Big Jay Oakerson on Live at Webster Hall @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

12.30-31 STEVE TREVINO

“Look, it was just a different time when I was growing up. All I’m saying is, you didn’t get molested; it was just fun.” — Steve Trevino on Grandpa Joe’s Son @ La Jolla Comedy Store, lajolla. thecomedystore.com

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

PULSE

ART BEAT PG. 36 | PERFORMING ARTS PG. 42 | MOVIES PG. 44 DECEMBER GALLERY AND EXHIBIT OPENINGS | BY LISA DEADERICK

“Under the Mistletoe” by Susan Keith

12.2-30

“Aglow with Color” SAN DIEGO WATERCOLOR SOCIETY

2825 Dewey Rd., Bldg. 202, Liberty Station, 619.876.4550, sdws.org

The watercolor society’s members celebrate the craft of water-based painting with this showcase of nearly 100 original works. CONT. ON PAGE 38

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

PROMOTION

CHIN UP? Things that get bigger in November include turkeys, mustaches and tummies. Whether you’re visiting family out of town or enjoying Thanksgiving in the harsh San Diego weather, overindulgence this time of year seems inevitable – which means ’tis also the season to sprout a dreaded second chin. While the battle of the bulge never ends, keep your chin up! There now exist new weapons to use in the fight against submental fullness, otherwise known as a double chin. “Until recently, the only option available for people with excess fat in this area was liposuction,” says FACES+ dermatologist Dr. Tracy Leong, who offers solutions for staving off such unsightly head-turners. “However, with the introduction of Kybella last year, patients now have a nonsurgical option for permanent removal of their double chins.” QUICK AND EASY Kybella offers a relatively fast, noninvasive way to get rid of submental fat (aka double chin). The FDA-approved injectable, also known as deoxycholic acid, disrupts fat cells by destroying their membranes, causing the cells to rupture, which allows them to be permanently eliminated from the body. “It typically takes me 10 to 15 minutes to do the injections, and recovery time is usually 5 to 10 days,” says Dr. Leong, who trains other physicians to perform the Kybella procedure. “Common side-effects include swelling and minor bruising.” Results from Kybella treatments occur gradually, and improvement will be seen over the course of several weeks to months. Most patients require two to four treatments spaced at least six weeks apart.

Tracy Leong, MD Dermatologist, Faces+ Fellow, American Academy of Dermatology

COMBINATION TREATMENTS Kybella can be used in conjunction with other procedures to help patients achieve an optimal aesthetic outcome. Depending on your needs, combining Kybella with skin-tightening procedures (suchand perso Aesthetic education as ThermiRF and Ultherapy) or from the region’s top cosmetic skin-rejuvenating laser treatments and dlike ermatologists (including Laser Genesis or Fraxel) may be extremely beneficial.

Beautifu

SURGERY For people with excessive This special a ddition fat to P acificSD is the firs accumulation in the neck chin advice columns a nd and a nonymous Q&A sess area,Diegans surgery may be a better option.from chemic considering a nything Heredity, weight gain and natural to b reast a ugmentation a nd aging n ose jobs can processes can cause fat deposits in city’s most e steemed p hysicians — before these areas. traits are often knife o r These n eedle. resistant to weight loss and exercise. In this case, liposuction involves removing This service is provided courtesy o f Faces specific areascenter of fat deposits in the surgery in L a Jolla, where the three neckoffering and jawtarea. procedure is p ages p rac heir oThe pinions o n these performed on an outpatient basis and medicine. takes approximately one hour. In cases where a double o chin is associated with This copy, f course, will b e m ore eloquen a recessed chin, cosmetic But the g ist FACES+ feels right to me: we a re a weso surgeons cana dvice, offer non-surgical brilliant a nd we’re tchin ransparent a bou augmentation So call us.in addition to a range of surgical options.

Before you g o to sleep tonight, try the 3 D B

FACESplus.com. Or maybe we e nd with so PREVENTION and e nticing call-to-action. Watch your diet and add a few targeted exercises to your workout. Two main muscles, the sternocleidomastoid and platysma, make up the neck. Toning them can help pull the overlaying skin tighter for a younger, healthier look. In addition, adding a topical skin firming cream to your skincare regimen can help improve the appearance of the chin and neck area. For firming up this area, Dr. Leong recommends cosmeceuticals including Revision Nectifirm, Neocutis Micro Firm Rejuvenating Complex and Faces+ Neckletage. “All of these contain peptides and antioxidants that help to hydrate and tighten the skin,” says Dr. Leong.

4510 Executive Dr., Ste. 200, UTC area 4510 E xecutive Dr., S te. 2 00, UTC a rea 858.453.7224, FACESplus.com 858.453.7224, FACESplus.com

PUL S E

ART BEAT CONT. FROM PAGE 36

TOP: Artwork by Amira Dolfo BOTTOM: Artwork by Amaun Saheli

“Proposal for a Monument to the Treaty of Outer Space” By Sandow Birk

12.1-13 “FALL 2016 STUDENT EXHIBITION” SAN DIEGO MESA COLLEGE ART GALLERY  7250 Mesa College Dr., D101, Clairemont Mesa   619.388.2829, sdmesa.edu/art-gallery More than 100 original pieces of student artwork — jewelry, ceramics, glass and works on paper — will be on display and available for purchase.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

12.2 “SANDOW BIRK: DEPRAVITIES & MONUMENTS” SDSU DOWNTOWN GALLERY  725 W. Broadway, Downtown  619.501.6370, art.sdsu.edu/sandow-birk-depravities-monuments-2/ An exhibition of Los Angeles visual artist Sandow Birk’s work will feature woodcut prints that critique the war in Iraq and its effects. CONT. ON PAGE 40

Your

CONNECTION â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the place for lights, cords, gifts and more

675 6th A 6 dow19.54 & Mavr e. nto 4.94 ket wn a 00 Bet wee nG

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PUL S E

ART BEAT CONT. FROM PAGE 38

12.2-1.29 “WOMEN ON THE WATER” WOMEN’S MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA 2730 Historic Decatur Rd., St. 103, Liberty Station   619.233.7963, womensmuseumca.org Learn about the history of women who’ve sailed, rowed and become competitors in the nation’s waterways — from local women who loved the water as girls to the founding of one of the oldest women’s rowing clubs in the United States.

12.10-2.5 “THE PRINCIPLES OF NATURE” MADISON GALLERY  1055 Wall St., St. 100, La Jolla  858.459.0836, madisongalleries.com  South Korean artist Jaehyo Lee’s second solo exhibition will showcase his nature-inspired work, which explores the boundaries between contemporary art and design.

12.17-4.9 “DAN MCCLEARY, ETCHINGS AND STUDIES: TALLER DE GRABADO OAXACA 2000-2016” OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART  704 Pier View Way, Oceanside   760.435.3720, oma-online.org For the past 16 years, Dan McCleary’s annual trips to Oaxaca, Mexico, have resulted in etchings of sugar skulls and portraits of men, women and flowers — all of which are included in this exhibit, along with first-draft drawings of the final works.

12.17-3.5 “TRINH MAI: LIFELINE” OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART  704 Pier View Way, Oceanside  760.435.3720, oma-online.org The Orange County-based artist’s personal memories propel the narrative for her work, done in charcoal, gouache, mixed media and stitching.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

CLOCKWISE (from top left): photo of women in a row boat, circa 1890; “The Principles of Nature” by Jaehyo Lee; “Skull #2” by Dan McCleary; “Bone of My Bone” by Trinh Mai

12.17-4.30 “ALEXIA MARKARIAN: DESIRE IS NEVER ENOUGH” OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART

By Alexia Markarian

704 Pier View Way, Oceanside  760.435.3720, oma-online.org Born and raised in New York, artist Alexia Markarian is known for her “challenging and often confrontational” artwork (painting, sculpture, jewelry and mixed media) that uses everyday materials in unconventional ways.

“Ginger” By Anita Plaks

12.21-1.2 “2016 DOGGONE ART SHOW” SPANISH VILLAGE ART CENTER, GALLERY 21  1770 Village Place, Balboa Park   619.233.9050, doggoneartshow. wixsite.com/doggone-art-show Dogs of all kinds, domestic and wild, come to life in two- and three-dimensional art in various media.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

PUL S E

PERFORMING ARTS

CURTAIN CALLS DECEMBER PERFORMING ARTS // By Sarah Pfledderer 12.1-4 JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR DON POWELL THEATRE

12.1-24 MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET THE HORTON GRAND THEATRE

12.1-31 THE 1940S RADIO HOUR NEW VILLAGE ARTS THEATRE

12.2 MERRY-ACHI CHRISTMAS BALBOA THEATRE

5500 Campanile Drive, College West 619.594.6884, ttf.sdsu.edu

444 Fourth Ave., downtown 858.560.5740, sdmt.org

2787 State St., Carlsbad 760.433.3245, newvillagearts.org

868 Fourth Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org

San Diego State University students act out the decadesold rock opera in psychedelic form, recounting the lead-up to Jesus’ crucifixion through the eyes of his dicey disciple Judas Iscariot.

Will the real Kris Kringle please stand up? A department store Santa claiming to be the real deal goes to court to prove his identity in this version of the classic musical, presented with a score akin to a 1940s-esque radio broadcast.

Tune into WOV’s broadcast in December 1942, when the feeble New York radio station attempts to ship holiday spirit to WWII troops serving overseas.

See the world-renowned Mariachi Sol de Mexico perform the same holiday hits that sold out New York City’s Lincoln Center and charmed four U.S. presidents.

12.2-24 A SNOW WHITE CHRISTMAS SAN DIEGO REPERTORY THEATRE — THE LYCEUM STAGE < A Very Electric Christmas

79 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.544.1000, sdrep.org Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who’s the most holly, jolly of them all? The answer is Neil Patrick Harris, who, as the magic mirror, anchors this musical rendition of Snow White.

12.3 A VERY ELECTRIC CHRISTMAS MOONLIGHT STAGE PRODUCTIONS 200 Civic Center Drive, Vista 760.724.2110, moonlightstage.com Navigating out of the North Pole is hard in the dark. Luckily for Max, a young bird blown north from his migrating parents, his story is performed entirely with lights.

12.6 JOY & LIGHT CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org The modernist PGK Dance Project mashes yuletide-inspired melodies with new moves in this ultra-contemporary Christmas performance that provides audience members with a chance to become part of the show.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

The Nutcracker 2016 By California Ballet Co.

B R A D M AT T H E W S

12.9-23 THE NUTCRACKER BY CITY BALLET OF SAN DIEGO SPRECKELS THEATRE

12.16-18 THE NUTCRACKER BY SAN DIEGO BALLET CO. MANDEVILLE CENTER

121 Broadway, downtown 619.235.9500, spreckels.net

9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla 619.294.7378, sandiegoballet.org

City Ballet of San Diego kicks off the season’s Nutcracker frenzy with musical accompaniment by the City Ballet Orchestra and Chorus.

Sugar Plum Fairies aplenty appear in San Diego Ballet Co.’s 27th annual presentation of the Snow Forest and Land of Sweets, featuring more than 100 on-stage dancers.

12.10-24 THE NUTCRACKER 2016 BY CALIFORNIA BALLET CO. SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org California Ballet Co.’s annual performance series returns, chronicling Clara’s magical whisk-away from her family Christmas into a dreamland characterized by human-size mice, toy soldiers and sugar plum fairies.

12.21 GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER JACOBS MUSIC CENTER 750 B St., downtown 619.235.0804, nutcracker.com Moscow Ballet’s Russian rendition of this holiday staple doubles as a call for world peace, with Act Two (dubbed “Peace and Harmony”) featuring a rose-shooting cannon and 20-foot dove.

12.14-24 AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS THE U.S. GRANT HOTEL

12.28 MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS SAN DIEGO CIVIC THEATRE

326 Broadway, downtown 619.437.6000, lambsplayers.org

1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — when the U.S. Grant drums up a four-course feast to be served alongside a 24-person live performance by Lamb’s Players.

Grammy Award-winner Chip Davis’ project carols through the San Diego Civic Theatre with Billboard-topping tunes that reminisce the reason for the season.

12.15 AN IRISH CHRISTMAS CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org Irish Christmas customs come alive on stage in the form of song and dance performed by L.A.-based Kerry Irish Productions.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

PUL S E

MOVIES

T.J. Miller and Jason Bateman in Office Christmas Party. Photo by Glen Wilson.

REEL COOL DECEMBER’S MOTION PICTURE PREVIEW By Michael Benninger

MANCHESTER BY THE SEA

MISS SLOANE

OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY

Drama Director: Kenneth Lonergan Starring: Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler In theaters: December 2

Make sure you surprise them.

Party like your job depends on it.

Drama | Thriller Director: John Madden Starring: Jessica Chastain, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Mark Strong In theaters: December 9

Comedy Directors: Josh Gordon, Will Speck Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, T.J. Miller In theaters: December 9

A merciless D.C. powerbroker has a reputation for winning at any cost, but when she faces her most formidable opponent yet, her career might come to a catastrophic close.

In an effort to save the company and keep their jobs, a pair of hardBrad Pitt plays Max partying corporate Vatan, and Marion colleagues throw an off-theCotillard plays Marianne Beausejour, in Allied chain Christmas rager to from Paramount Pictures. impress a new client. Photo by Daniel Smith.

When a childless janitor’s estranged older brother suddenly dies, the middleaged maintenance man is made sole guardian of his adolescent nephew and must choose between caring for the kid in Boston or returning to his family’s hometown of Manchester by the Sea.

CONT. ON PAGE 46 CONT. ON PAGE 42

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

December 10 , 2016 th

A Classic Christmas Presented by

Chris Mann & Shoshana Bean In Concert Sponsored by

PUL S E

MOVIES CONT. FROM PAGE 44

COLLATERAL BEAUTY

THE SPACE BETWEEN US

We are all connected.

What’s your favorite thing about Earth?

Drama | Comedy Director: David Frankel Starring: Will Smith, Kate Winslet, Keira Knightley In theaters: December 16

Collateral Beauty

La La Land

After a talented businessmen suffering from a deep depression begins writing impassioned letters to emotions and other intangible recipients, three enigmatic strangers suddenly enter his life.

PASSENGERS

A rebellion built on hope.

Every moment counts.

Fantasy | Sci-Fi Director: Gareth Edwards Starring: Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Donnie Yen In theaters: December 16

LA LA LAND Here’s to the fools who dream.

Romance Director: Damien Chazelle Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Finn Wittrock In theaters: December 16 This love story set in the City of Angels chronicles the relationship between a fledgling actress and an underemployed jazz pianist who struggle to stay together under the pressure to achieve success.

The Space Between Us

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

A teenage boy raised on Mars visits Earth for the first time and, after learning his body isn’t equipped for this planet’s atmosphere, eludes the scientists studying him and embarks on a mission to meet his long-distance crush and find the father he’s never known.

ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY

This first “Anthology” film from in the Star Wars universe sets the stage for the action of the original 1977 classic by telling the tale of eclectic adventurers who attempt to pilfer plans for the oppressive Empire’s destructive Death Star.

Passengers

Fantasy | Sci-Fi Director: Peter Chelsom Starring: Gary Oldman, Asa Butterfield, Carla Gugino In theaters: December 16

Fantasy | Sci-Fi Director: Morten Tyldum Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt, Michael Sheen In theaters: December 21 A pair of passengers en route to a distant planet awake from suspended animation nearly a century too soon and, with no one to help them, face the prospect of living out their lives on a luxurious and lonely spaceship.

ASSASSIN’S CREED Your destiny is in your blood.

Adventure | Fantasy Director: Justin Kurzel Starring: Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Irons In theaters: December 21 Upon discovering he’s descended from a brotherhood of ancient assassins, a man uses powerful technology to re-live the experiences of his longdead relative and take down the sinister organization secretly manipulating modern society.

SING

FENCES

Auditions begin 2016.

Drama

Drama | Musical Director: Garth Jennings Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon In theaters: December 21 A fashionable koala attempts to save his faltering theater by hosting the most epic singing competition the animal kingdom has ever seen.

A MONSTER CALLS Stories are wild creatures.

Fantasy | Drama Director: J.A. Bayona Starring: Liam Neeson, Felicity Jones, Sigourney Weaver In theaters: December 23 As a means of coping with his mother’s impending death, an angst-ridden boy uses his imagination to create an astonishing tree monster that serves as his strength.

Director: Denzel Washington Starring: Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Russell Hornsby In theaters: December 25 Based on the Broadway play set in the 1950s, a retired baseball player creates family drama by shutting down his son’s dreams of becoming a professional athlete and bringing an out-ofwedlock baby into their home.

A Monster Calls

GOLD It was never about the money.

Drama | Thriller Director: Stephen Gaghan Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Bryce Dallas Howard, Édgar Ramírez In theaters: December 25

Why Him?

An unscrupulous gold prospector attracts unwanted attention from federal agencies and a foreign military after unearthing a staggering amount of precious metals in an Indonesian jungle.

WHY HIM? Of all the guys his daughter could have chosen...

ComedyBenninger By Michael Director: John Hamburg Starring: James Franco, Bryan Cranston, Zoey Deutch In theaters: December 23 An overprotective father visiting his daughter’s college campus meets her well-intended, but extremely aggravating, billionaire boyfriend, who is the last person on Earth he wants sleeping with his baby girl.

HIDDEN FIGURES Meet the women you don’t know, behind the mission you do.

Gold

Drama Director: Theodore Melfi Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe In theaters: December 25 In this incredible true story set in the 1950s and ’60s, a trio of ingenuous African-American women working for NASA defy racial and gender stereotypes by helping to launch America’s first astronaut into orbit. Hidden Figures

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

MADE OF

ICELAND EQUAL PARTS GLACIER AND L AV A R O C K

FOR MORE ON OUR UNIQUE PROCESS AND AWARD-WINNING SMOOTH TASTE, VISIT REYKA.COM PLEASE DRINK REYKA RESPONSIBLY. TAKK! (THAT’S ‘THANK YOU’ IN ICELANDIC.) REYKA VODKA, 40% ALC/VOL. (80 PROOF) DISTILLED FROM GRAIN. ©2016 WILLIAM GRANT & SONS. NEW YORK, NY.

YULE

B l o g

Fashionistas and other social stars share their gifts Making a list and checking it twice might be a snap for Santa, but merry mortals sometimes struggle to figure out what to put under the Christmas tree (or by the menorah). Luckily for locals, and just in time for the ho-hoholidays, these San Diego bloggers have the presents of mind to help.

DECEMBER 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

Vanessa Balli vanessaballi.com

Hometown: San Diego Current neighborhood: Eastlake What do you do for a living? “Stylist and fashion blogger.” Instagram: @vanessaballi, 16K followers Facebook: vanessaballiOOTD, 16K followers Pinterest: vanessaballi Snapchat: @vanessaballi Born and raised in San Diego, Vanessa Balli has been sharing her views and tips on fashion, beauty and personal styling for almost five years. She launched a blossoming brand called Vanessa Balli Hair, has appeared in Glamour and Marie Claire, and works with prominent national brands through her blog. Follow her for trends and “outfits that won’t break the bank, but will look like you did.” PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? VANESSA BALLI: An eyeshadow palette with 12 perfect colors for all skin tones to create subtle or smokey eye looks. Tartelette in Bloom Eyeshadow Palette by Tarte, $45, tartecosmetics.com. What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 1. VIBRANCE brings your hair back to life. Say goodbye to dry brittle hair and hello to beautiful, healthy, shiny hair! VIBRANCE High Gloss Hair Serum, $26, Vanessa Balli Hair, vanessaballihair.com. How about a luxury item? 2. Everyone needs a gorgeous gown for holiday parties. This Nightcap dress is a beautiful shade of pink, with lace details that will certainly turn heads. Nightcap Cutout Maxi, $495, Pebbles by the Beach boutique, Del Mar. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? My fiance bought me the Dyson Supersonic Blowdryer for my birthday. It’s a miracle worker that cuts my drying time in half, especially when used with my hair product VIBRANCE. What’s the worst gift? I honestly can’t think of one. I like to send out a wish list so that I never get bad gifts. What gift do you most want to receive this year? I’ve had my eye on the Chloé leather satchel in grey.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

Whitney Bond whitneybond.com

Hometown: Edmond, Okla. Current neighborhood: Crown Point What do you do for a living? “Full-time food blogger” Instagram: @WhitneyBond, 16K followers Snapchat: @WhitneyMBond

2. K.C. ALFRED

Whitney Bond at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters in Little Italy.

Food blogger Whitney Bond lives by the beach “with her boyfriend, Kurt, eight Crock-Pots and three coffee makers.” She’s known for adding buffalo sauce to almost everything and claims to be an expert at dancing to Taylor Swift while cooking, a feat that can sometimes be witnessed on her Instagram stories. Since she began blogging in 2011, Bond has shared nearly 1,000 original recipes – most of which can be made in 30 minutes or less, in one pot or in a Crock-Pot. PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? 1. WHITNEY BOND: As a coffee-loving gal, I love to gift my fellow coffee-loving friends and family a bag of my favorite local coffee for the holidays. They also have really cute coffee mugs that make great accompanying gifts to a bag of coffee. Birdrock Coffee, $15-$25, Birdrock Coffee Roasters (Little Italy, La Jolla, Morena District), birdrockcoffee.com. 2. What medium-priced gift do you recommend? This countertop appliance makes it so easy to learn how to sous vide at home. And, bonus: It’s a slow cooker, too. I’ve become totally obsessed with sous vide cooking since I started using this device. Hamilton Beach Sous Vide Slow Cooker, $139.99, HamiltonBeach.com. 3. How about a luxury item? From cookie baking to pizza dough making, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer is a luxury appliance that will be used in the kitchen for years to come. KitchenAid Stand Mixer, $250-$650, KitchenAid.com. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? Cuisinart Food Processor. What can I say? I’m a food blogger. What’s the worst gift? A mug with an NBA team on it that I’m not a fan of. What gift do you most want to receive this year? KitchenAid Stand Mixer.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

Krystin Seiver and Joanna Groschwitz at Rais Case in Oceanside.

Krystin Seiver and Joanna Groschwitz smithandjunie.blogspot.com

Hometown: San Diego Current neighborhood: South Oceanside (“We’re neighbors.”) What do you do for a living? “We’re both moms and estheticians – aka vagina waxers.” Instagram: @SmithandJunie, 10K followers Krystin Seiver and Joanna Groschwitz are best friends, neighbors and moms to 2-year-olds born five days apart. “We’ve been arranging their marriage since birth,” Seiver says. (The two speak as “we” on their blog.) The BFF’s blog, Smith and Junie, focuses on what the duo calls honest motherhood. “We openly talk about the good, the bad and the downright funny that comes along with being a mom. Too many blogs and Instagram accounts make us feel inadequate as moms and, really, as women, because all you see is the beautiful side, the curated side. Our goal is to be real with our readers, even if that means showing the mess and the chaos.” PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? 1. SEIVER AND GROSCHWITZ: The Bee and the Fox makes retro-inspired tees that fit amazing and are super soft with catchy sayings. Our favorite? “Same Shirt, Different Day.” The Bee & The Fox Co., thebeeandthefox.com (based out of San Clemente).

K.C. ALFRED

What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 2. There is no better way to wear out a toddler while also keeping your house perfectly clean than bringing them to Legoland. It’s so fun and interactive. And, if you have the annual pass – parking plus admission to the park – the aquarium and the water slides are all free. Kids under 3 are free without a pass. Legoland annual pass, $199, Legoland, legoland.com.

How about a luxury item? 3. Every mama deserves a really high-quality bag that not only works for toting around extra diapers, but is equally as beautiful to carry when you’re out without your kids – like that’ll ever happen. Rais Case 100% leather hand-dyed backpack (in black), $395, Rais Case store in South Oceanside, raiscase.com.

What’s the worst gift? A flashlight that you wear on your head. Don’t ask.

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? A beautiful vintage leather jacket.

What gift do you most want to receive this year? More sleep. Like, a lot more.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

Alex Salcedo thecasualboardwalk.com

Hometown: Calexico, Calif. Current neighborhood: Ocean View Hills (southeast San Diego) What do you do for a living? “Accountant.” Instagram: @thecasualboardwalk, 43K followers Through his blog, The Casual Boardwalk, Alex Salcedo discusses topics relating to menswear and his other interests. “I love incorporating new and old pieces, and budget-friendly and high-end items into my looks,” Salcedo says. “I have a ‘Retro Southern Californian’ kind of style.” PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? ALEX SALCEDO: Every guy should own a Moto jacket. It transitions well with your outfits during fall and winter. Faux Leather Moto Jacket, $37.90, Forever 21, forever21.com. What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 1. A pair of headphones always come in handy for trips or to simply lounge around your place. LSTN Ebony Troubador Wood Headphones, from $149, LSTN Sound, https://lstnsound.co/. How about a luxury item? 2. Chelsea boots can really help make your outfit stand out. You can dress them casual or formal and wear them around San Diego all season long. Aquatalia Waterproof Chelsea Boots, $450, Aquatalia, aquatalia.com. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? My first car. I was finally able to drive myself around town without bugging my parents. What’s the worst gift? Oversized clothing. I don’t think I was ever into that phase, unlike my friends. What gift do you most want to receive this year? It might be hard for 2. this to be gifted to me: time. I’m always on the go, so a few minutes to relax here and there would be nice.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

Nihan Gorkem at El Camino restau+rant in Little Italy.

Nihan Gorkem stylewithnihan.com

Hometown: Istanbul, Turkey Current neighborhood: Carlsbad What do you do for a living? “Digital marketing consultant and blogger.” Instagram: @nihancik, 17K followers Style blogger Nihan Gorkem says she is, “a lover of fashion, traveling, photography, art, sunsets, good eats and my edgy puppy, Mister Lady.” Her blog, Style with Nihan, aims to empower women by, “boosting their confidence in creative styling and adventure-seeking.” Whether her readers are rocking a new trend or traveling abroad for the first time, Nihan aims to inspire them to embrace new opportunities in style. PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? 1. NIHAN GORKEM: I’ve been obsessed with this cool brand from the UK lately, and all of their shoe styles are perfect for the fashionista in your life. A pair of Public Desire shoes or boots, $40$50, publicdesire.com. What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 2. A biker jacket, because every girl needs one in her wardrobe. Black Topshop biker jacket, $100, Topshop, topshop.com. How about a luxury item? 3. If money isn’t stopping you, go for the gold. Gucci bag, $1,500-$3,000, available, Gucci, gucci.com.

What’s the worst gift? An iTunes gift card. What gift do you most want to receive this year? A chic, round, marble coffee table to upgrade my apartment style.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

K.C. ALFRED

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? Plane tickets for a vacation in San Francisco.

3. 1.

2. 3.

Paulina Morales

lilbitsofchic.com

Paulina Morales in Little Italy.

Hometown: San Diego Current neighborhood: Chula Vista What do you do for a living? “Financial analyst by day, fashion blogger by night.” Instagram: @lilbitsofpau, 16K followers After graduating from UC San Diego, S.D. native Paulina Morales landed a financial analyst gig. Shortly thereafter, she says, “I quickly realized that I needed a space to fulfill my creative passions, so I created my blog.” Through Lil Bits of Chic, Morales presents San Diego-based fashion tips, shopping guides and beauty reviews for “the modern girl on the go, and on a budget.” PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? 1. PAULINA MORALES: Aside from being stylish, this dainty initial bracelet is such a thoughtful gift. It is also locally made! Hand stamped initial bracelet, gold fill, locally made by Calinana, $42, available at Vocabulary Boutique in Little Italy, vocabularyboutique.com. What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 2. This sleek, sporty wristband motivates you to achieve your fitness goals by calculating steps taken, calories burned, elevation climbed and distance traveled throughout the day. Fitbit Charge, $149.95, Fitbit, fitbit.com. How about a luxury item? Louis Vuitton leather goods are timeless and luxurious. For her, the Clemence Wallet with the Rose Ballerine interior for a feminine touch. For him, the Florin Wallet (3.) in Damier Graphite Canvas, a sleek yet classic look. Both are items that are long-lasting and classic. Louis Vuitton wallet, $530-$640, Louis Vuitton, louisvuitton.com. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? My dog, a cute and funny shih tzu named Coco. What’s the worst gift? An item that I could tell was re-gifted and not my style.

K.C. ALFRED

What gift do you most want to receive this year? Since I’m decorating my home office, I have a chandelier on the top of my list.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

Lauryn Evarts

theskinnyconfidential.com Hometown: San Diego Current neighborhood: Bankers Hill What do you do for a living? “Full-time blogger.” Instagram: @theskinnyconfidential, 340K followers Facebook: @theskinnyconfidential, 290K followers Twitter: @laurynevarts, 107K followers Pinterest: The Skinny Confidential YouTube: The Skinny Confidential Snapchat: @Laurynevarts Blogger Lauryn Evarts created her blog, The Skinny Confidential, while studying at San Diego State University. “I was inspired to create a platform for women to connect through their tips and tricks,” she says. Since then, the blog – which covers recipes, workouts, fashion, home décor, travel itineraries, personal stories and more – has grown into a lifestyle brand encompassing a book, fitness guide, YouTube channel and social network. “The Skinny Confidential is all about creating a healthy lifestyle through balance,” Evarts says. “Think kale in one hand, champagne in the other.” She says The Skinny Confidential product line is coming soon. PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? 1. LAURYN EVERTS: I designed these phone cases for the cheeky and witty girlboss. I also drop my phone a lot. These are the ideal protective phone cases, so they make a great gift. The Skinny Confidential x Casetify phone cases, $40, theskinnyconfidential.com.

How about a luxury item? 3. A strong blender is a must for healthy cooking. I use mine to make smoothies, soups, nut butters; the list goes on. This one is super chic, since it’s copper. Vitamix Pro 750 Heritage Blender (copper), $649.95, Vitamix, vitamix.com.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

What’s the worst gift? Granny panty underwear. What gift do you most want to receive this year? An experience, like a wine tasting.

K.C. ALFRED

What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 2. I love writing notes, but using a pen and paper is a must for me. This set allows me to write notes and have them automatically put into my phone. Best of both worlds. Moleskine Smart Writing Set, $199, Moleskine, moleskine.com.

2. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? A set of handmade paper dolls of me, Michael and our dogs.

1. 2.

Susan Kane stylesrevealed.com

Hometown: San Diego Current neighborhood: Del Mar What do you do for a living? “Teacher/stylist.” Instagram: @stylesrevealed, 14K followers To document her passion for fashion, inspiration and styling, Susan Kane launched Styles Revealed in 2015. The mother of 2- and 5-year-old boys, she uses the blog as a creative outlet and diary, revealing what she describes as “secrets and tips on how to look fabulous without spending a fortune.” Kane says she aspires “to inspire women from all over the world to feel and look beautiful.” She thanks visitors to her blog for joining her “as she tries to balance it all — being a mother, wife, friend and a fashion fanatic.” PACIFIC: What affordable holiday gift do you recommend? 1. SUSAN KANE: Natural eye shadow palette. Urban Decay Naked Basics Eyeshadow Palette, $29, Urban Decay, urbandecay.com. What medium-priced gift do you recommend? 2. Suede over-the-knee boots. Steve Madden Nori Over-the-Knee Boots $129.95, Steve Madden, stevemadden.com. How about a luxury item? 3. A Gucci handbag. Gucci Dionysus GG Supreme shoulder bag, $1,570, Gucci, gucci. com. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? My engagement ring. My husband proposed on Christmas in Maui five years ago. What’s the worst gift? A hand-me-down gift, a sweater, that wasn’t even my size or taste. What gift do you most want to receive this year? A beach cruiser. I can’t believe I live in San Diego and don’t have one. K.C. ALFRED

Susan Kane in North Park.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

I T ’ S

M A L L

W O

WHAT’S IN STORE AT SAN DIEGO’S SHOPPING CENTERS As Santa Ana winds continue to blow in from the north(east), the chances of a white Christmas in San Diego are about as high as the nation’s president-elect believing in climate change. Luckily, ’tis still the season at the city’s shopping malls, where wreaths, Santa sightings and the occasional menorah lighting mean the holidays are in full swing.

T H E S H O P P E S AT C A R L S B A D

“R

evitalize,” “renovate” and “redevelop” are the watchwords for The Shoppes at Carlsbad this holiday season. Formerly Westfield Plaza Camino Real, the center began its facelift this fall (stores remain open during all phases of construction). The new design emphasizes a connection to the beach, with weathered-wood accents, natural stone, native plants and a color palette of warm whites, muted grays and earth tones. The new streetscape will join the center’s indoor

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

and outdoor elements, adding full-service and fast-casual dining options and inviting plazas. New tenants on their way include The Pizza Press and Dave & Busters.

THE SHOPPES AT CARLSBAD (previously Westfield Plaza Camino Real) 2525 El Camino Real, Ste. 100, Carlsbad 760.729.6183, theshoppesatcarlsbad.com Number of stores: 100-plus Anchors: JCPenney, Macy’s, Sears, Regal

Carlsbad 12 Theater, Victoria’s Secret Restaurants: Pizza Press, Panera Bread, Peet’s Coffee and Tea, Luna Grill, Villaggio Café, Robek’s Juice Holiday highlights: Photos with Santa and Christmas tree lot through Christmas Eve. Pet adoption in partnership with the San Diego Humane Society, Dec. 4, 1-4 p.m. Holiday concert by the 20-piece North Coast Symphony, Dec. 11, 1-4 p.m. Holiday concert by local musicians, Dec. 18, 1-4 p.m.

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A F T E R

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F A S H I O N VA L L E Y

ashion Valley is the city’s luxury landmark. A premier retail destination, it is the largest shopping mall in San Diego, with “every international brand – Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Prada – and 200 stores,” says Lourdes Menendez, director of marketing. “Anything that you might need, we have.” New arrivals at the 1.7-millionsquare-foot-plus center are the first Kendra Scott and Club Monaco stores in San Diego, as well as vince. Fashion Valley will celebrate

the holidays in equally large style, with the debut of a 40-foot interactive Christmas tree in River Plaza. The tree – the tallest animated tree in San Diego outside of theme parks – offers an 8- to 10-minute animated light show with synchronized holiday music. Menendez touts the center’s Personal Shopper Program. “It’s a great solution to the stress that comes with holiday shopping,” she says. Choose either concierge service – someone to shop for you – or an escort on a custom shopping

tour to help you find the perfect gift. The service is free for the first two hours. Email lmenendez@simon.com for an appointment.

L A R RY A . FA L K E

FASHION VALLEY 7007 Friars Rd., Mission Valley 619.688.9113, simon.com/mall/fashion-valley Number of stores: 200 Anchors: Bloomingdale’s, Neiman-Marcus, Macy’s, Nordstrom, JCPenney, Forever 21, AMC Movie Theatres Restaurants: True Food Kitchen, Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge, P.F. Chang’s, California Pizza Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory Holiday highlights: The new interactive 40foot Holiday Tree bestows a festive glow with an animated light show at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m. nightly through Dec. 24. Pet Photo Nights with Santa: 7-8 p.m. Nov. 27 and Dec. 11 in Macy’s Court. Holiday photos with Santa through Dec. 24. Special features/amenities: free coat and package check, cellphone charging stations, free personal shopper service, valet parking.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS

dd international flavor to this year’s holiday shopping with a visit to Las Americas Premium Outlets, located next to the new PedWest pedestrian border crossing in San Ysidro. With its beautiful courtyard setting and more than 125 designer and name-brand outlet stores – including Adidas, Banana Republic Factory Store, J.Crew, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren and Coach – Las Americas is a top shopping destination. What’s new? Under Armour has recently settled in on the west side of the center, and

Converse and Old Navy have renovated their spaces. Holidays will be cheery with strolling carolers on Saturdays and strolling Santa on Sundays. Visitors just might be surprised with a special “thank you” gift from one of the shopping center’s ambassadors.

LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro 619.934.8400, premiumoutlets.com/outlet/las-americas

Number of stores: 125 Anchors: Banana Republic Factory Store, J.Crew, Lacoste, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger Restaurants: Achiote Mexican Restaurant, IHOP, Charley’s Philly Steaks, Rice Garden Holiday highlights: Strolling carolers on Saturdays; strolling Santa on Sundays. Check website for schedules and more events.

CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS

ith its busloads of shoppers touring from different countries, Carlsbad Premium Outlets often has an international feel. Located

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS 5620 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad 760.804.9000, premiumoutlets.com/outlet/carlsbad

Number of stores: nearly 100 Anchors: Calvin Klein, Barneys New York, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger, Crate & Barrel, Kate Spade New York Restaurants: Ruby’s Diner, Panda Express, Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill Holiday highlights: Visit and be photographed with Santa through Dec. 24 in Center Court. Pet Photo Night: 6-7 p.m. Nov. 27 and Dec. 11 – bring a pet to pose with Santa. L A R RY A . FA L K E

L A R RY A . FA L K E

just off the intersection of I-5 and Palomar Airport Road, it hosts nearly 100 designer and name-brand outlets, and is one of San Diego’s top shopping destinations for locals and tourists alike. Cool breezes, fountains and outdoor dining options are mainstays at this bustling open-air center, whose latest addition is the Levi’s Men’s Outlet, which opened in November 2016. The center is also close to Legoland California, the Museum of Making Music and the worldrenowned Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.

X AV I E R B A I L E Y P H O T O G R A P H Y

THE FORUM CARLSBAD

or those wanting to avoid giant malls, The Forum Carlsbad welcomes shoppers with a casual and approachable vibe. “You could find something really nice for everyone at the Forum – without the workout” of hiking miles through a mega-mall, says marketing manager Janis Brown. “The store selection really covers almost all the bases.” Anthropologie just expanded to open its bridal shop; BHLDN and a Pressed Juicery recently opened. Tilly’s, Urban Outfitters, Sur la Table and Geppetto’s are also in the

mix. A dolphin fountain and koi pond add to the relaxed feel, says Brown, making The Forum a shopping oasis with quality stores that are affordable. Additional perks: being able to park near favorite stores and avoiding grueling traffic. “We say, ‘It’s what shopping should be,’” Brown says.

THE FORUM CARLSBAD 1923 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad 760.479.0166, theforumcarlsbad.com Number of stores: 54

Anchors: Anthropologie, Bed Bath & Beyond, H&M, Urban Outfitters, lululemon athletica, J. Crew, Sur la Table, Apple, Jimbo’s Gourmet Grocer Restaurants: Urban Plates, Buca di Beppo, Casa de Bandini, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Panera Bread Holiday highlights: Santa sightings, 1-4 p.m. Nov. 27, Dec. 3, 10, 17, 18. Hanukkah celebration, 4-6 p.m. Dec. 26 – join Chabad La Costa for the lighting of the menorah in the Anthropologie court.

J&P PHOTO STUDIOS

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

GROSSMONT CENTER

fixture in the La Mesa area since 1961, Grossmont Center was recently acquired by new owners. The open-air mall has gotten a fresh paint job, new furniture, more parking and increased security. The Reading Cinemas has upgraded its food offerings, including wine and beer, and the center recently welcomed a Restoration Hardware Outlet. With 1 million square feet of shopping and many unique stores, Grossmont Center also offers two to four free events each month, and more during the holidays. This holiday season will feature Santa and his elves, Frosty the Snowman and live reindeer.

GROSSMONT CENTER 5500 Grossmont Center Dr., La Mesa 619.465.2900, grossmontcenter.com Number of stores: 100-plus. Anchors: Macy’s, Target, Restoration Hardware Outlet, Wal-Mart, Reading Cinemas, Trader Joe’s Restaurants: Casa de Pico, Smokin’ Blaines BBQ, Momentos Café, Claim Jumper, BJ’s, Fuddruckers Holiday highlights: Santa Paws Pet Adoption,

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 3. Santa’s Hut through Dec. 24. Live reindeer: 3-5 p.m. Dec. 4, 11, 18 in the center courtyard. Rock & Roll Giveaway, Dec. 10: win a diamond ring from Daniel’s Jewelers (the Rock) and a 2016 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Motorcycle (the Roll) – register on-site through Dec. 9. Holiday concert with the Mar Dels, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 17. HolidayFest, 2-4 p.m. Dec. 10-11 and 17-18: appearances by costumed characters including the Grinch and Frosty the Snowman, Santa and his elves, and live reindeer.

C H U L A V I S TA CENTER

CHULA VISTA CENTER 555 Broadway, Ste. 1019, Chula Vista

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

MARK MECALIS

he latest arrivals at this south San Diego County shopping center are Perfumania – America’s largest fragrance retailer – and Lovesick, a retailer of trendy, plus-size clothing. According to owner Rouse Properties, the Chula Vista Center is one of the most highly recognized regional shopping centers in the county, serving an area that is home to 1 million residents within a 10-mile radius. The center features the closest full-line department stores to the Mexican border (including the only Sears store in the South Bay region) as well as a host of other retail, dining, recreation and entertainment options that are popular with local and Mexican national shoppers.

619.427.6700, chulavistacenter.com Number of stores: 90 Anchors: Sears, Macy’s, JCPenney, AMC Theatre, Burlington Coat Factory Restaurants: Project Pie, Panera Bread, Olive Garden, BJ’s Brewhouse, Rubio’s

Fresh Mexican Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings Holiday highlights: Santa will be holding court through Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve). Holiday Bazaar and Nutcracker, Dec. 4, 1-4 p.m. Holiday concerts, Dec. 10 and 17, 1-3 p.m.

O T AY R A N C H TOWN CENTER

tay Ranch Town Center offers 100plus stores, but shoppers can also romp with Fido and select freshoff-the-farm produce at the farmers market. This shopping destination sports a dog park and is offering Pet Night with Santa as part of its holiday fun. Take a break with a snack at one of the many casual eateries or pick up fresh fruit at the farmers market, which also features live entertainment.

P E G G Y P E AT T I E

OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER 2015 Birch Rd., Chula Vista 619.656.1393, otayranchtowncenter.com Number of stores: 100-plus Anchors: Macy’s, AMC Theatres, Best Buy, H&M, Toys “R” Us Restaurants: California Pizza Kitchen, Chili’s Bar & Grill, The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang’s, Romano’s Macaroni Grill Holiday highlights: Pet Night with Santa – bring a four-legged friend (cats and dogs only) to pose for a photo.

Special features/amenities: free WiFi, dog park – a great place to exercise Rover and play off-leash in a 10,000-square-foot gated area with other dogs; open 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m. daily, weather permitting, with adjacent

parking. Farmers Market & Family Festival: from 4-8 p.m. Tuesdays, enjoy farm-fresh produce, specialty food items, dining options and live entertainment.

P A R K W AY P L A Z A

sing and dance while playing, Dec. 17, 1-4 p.m. The Salvation Army Band performs holiday classics, Dec. 24, 1-4 p.m. Holiday Giftwrapping Station fundraiser for the nonprofit Scarlett’s Kids Foundation, through Dec. 9. D AV I D B R O O K S

tarting in the 1970s with just a Sears and expanding to more than 170 stores today, El Cajon’s Parkway Plaza is a covered mall offering 1.3 million square feet of shopping. New additions include Pandora jewelry, a Victoria’s Secret/ Pink, and rue21 Plus. Recent renovations include parkscape areas with free WiFi and outlets for charging mobile devices. Center Court features a newly designed arch with graphics highlighting parts of the El Cajon neighborhood and local notables including Olympic gold medal diver Greg Louganis.

PARKWAY PLAZA 415 Parkway Plaza, El Cajon 619.579.9932, shoppingparkwayplaza.com Number of stores: More than 170 Anchors: Macy’s, Sears, Wal-Mart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Regal Cinemas, H&M Restaurants: Applebee’s, On the Border, Rubio’s Coastal Grill, O’s American Kitchen, Five Guys Burgers and Fries Holiday highlights: Breakfast with Santa, Dec. 3. The 7 Celtic Nations Pipe Band, Dec. 10, 1-3 p.m. The Fiddle Cats, a high-energy musical variety show of female fiddlers who

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

WESTFIELD P L A Z A B O N I TA

ore than 1 million square feet of shopping and 188 stores greet visitors at Westfield Plaza Bonita in South Bay. This center is also popular with Mexican shoppers to the south, garnering 10.9 million visitors per year. The center has blossomed in the past several years after a revitalization project that brought in AMC Theatres 14, as well as stores including Nordstrom Rack, Target, Macy’s, H&M, Victoria’s Secret and the first Pandora jewelry store in the area. Most recently, Westfield Plaza Bonita has welcomed NYX Cosmetics, A’Gaci clothing and Hooters.

WESTFIELD PLAZA BONITA 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. National City 619.267.2850, westfield.com/plazabonita Number of stores: 188 Anchors: JCPenney, Macy’s, AMC Theatres 14, H&M, Nordstrom Rack, Target, Victoria’s Secret

Restaurants: Outback Steakhouse, El Torito, Hooters, Applebee’s, Chipotle Holiday highlights: Visit Santa through Dec. 24. Salvation Army Brass Band concerts, 5-7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, 19, 22.

W E S T F I E L D M I S S I O N VA L L E Y

WESTFIELD MISSION VALLEY 1640 Camino Del Rio N., Mission Valley 619.296.6375, westfield.com/missionvalley Number of stores: 124

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

Anchors: Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store, Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, Target, AMC Theatres, 24-Hour Fitness, Trader Joe’s Restaurants: Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, King’s Fish House, Outback Steakhouse, Yard House, Tender Greens, The Habit Burger Grill, Pei Wei, Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar Holiday highlights: Visit Santa through Dec. 24. Menorah lighting with Chabad of East County, Dec. 27.

STEPHEN CHIANG PHOTOGRAPHY

ll roads, they say, lead to Rome. In San Diego, four major freeways lead shoppers to Westfield Mission Valley, drawing roughly 17 million customer visits per year with 1.57 million square feet of retail space. New to the shopping center are the first Bloomingdale’s outlet in San Diego, a Yard House gastropub, Cinnaholic and a Tender Greens restaurant.

WESTFIELD UTC

estfield UTC is transforming from a shopping center into a shopping resort with new luxury boutiques, top national fashion stores and a sophisticated dining terrace. Dotted with boutiques, outdoor plazas, landscaped gardens and al fresco dining, the first phase of a multistage, $585 million redevelopment project opened in fall 2012 with new common areas, ArcLight Cinemas and a fitness center. Phase two will include a new Nordstrom and an additional 251,000 square feet of top international retailers, bringing the retail space to 1 million square feet. Complementing UTC’s transformation as a destination drawing 14 million visitors annually will be amenities such as a 15,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor event space, a five-level parking structure with cutting-edge “park assist” navigation technology and a palm-lined valet drop-off with arrival lounge. The mall’s newest tenants include Nespresso, Amazon books, Lego, Johnston & Murphy, Pandora, TravisMathew, Warby Parker and Vera Bradley.

WESTFIELD UTC 4545 La Jolla Village Dr., University City 858.546.8858, westfield.com/utc

Number of stores: 140-plus Anchors: Nordstrom, Macy’s, Tiffany & Co., Tesla, ArcLight Cinemas, Anthropologie, lululemon athletica, Michael Kors, Apple, J.Crew, Amazon Books Restaurants: Tender Greens, Seasons 52, Eureka! Discover American Craft, Lemonade, Veggie Grill Holiday highlights: Winter Nights (5-8 p.m. Dec. 3, 10, 17), community theater, live seasonal music by local schools, “snow”

cascading from the rooftops, free drinks and treats from UTC eateries, “Snow Angel” photo opportunities, interactive toy soldiers on stilts, free photo opportunities with Santa. Special features/amenities: Plaza Unplugged – acoustic sets by local San Diego musicians in Palm Plaza from noon-2 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

WESTFIELD NORTH COUNTY

he addition of a 24-Hour Fitness means holiday shoppers can now give their bodies and their wallets a workout at Westfield North County. This

recently renovated center, which also just added an A’Gaci clothing store, serves north San Diego County with 1.25 million square feet of retail space. Nearly 10 million

shoppers visit each year to check out the latest at stores including Nordstrom, Target, Apple, Michael Kors, Banana Republic, Macy’s, Forever 21, Coach, H&M, LUSH and White House | Black Market. California Pizza Kitchen will be opening soon.

WESTFIELD NORTH COUNTY 272 E. Via Rancho Parkway, Escondido 760.489.0631, westfield.com/northcounty Number of stores: 179 Anchors: Nordstrom, Macy’s, JCPenney, Target, Apple, White House | Black Market, H&M Restaurants: Black Angus, On the Border, The Cheesecake Factory, Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Red Robin, BJ’s Restaurant Brewhouse, North County Tavern & Bowl Holiday highlights: Visit Santa through Dec. 24. Menorah Celebration, Dec. 26, 6 p.m.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

TASTE

DINING OUT PG. 66 | BEER PG. 80 | DRINK PG. 86 | BARTENDER PG. 90

Sweet

HOW

THE 12 DAYS OF X-CESS BY PAM KRAGEN

If sugar’s going to be in the mix, get your fix (before New Year’s Day dieting begins) at these 12 San Diego restaurants. Indulging in festive and heartwarming desserts over the holidays — dozen it feel good?

Rustic Root

DARK CHOCOLATE DOUGHNUTS

Every Monday night, Rustic Root rolls out its decadent, bittersweet doughnuts, handmade with buttermilk, cinnamon sugar and warm chocolate glaze. Enjoy some with a glass of red wine in the rooftop lounge.

535 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.1747, rusticroot.com 66

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

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crabhutrestaurant.com

KEARNY MESA LOCATION

DOWNTOWN LOCATION 1007 5th Avenue #101 San Diego, CA 92101

8280 Mira Mesa Blvd. Ste. E San Diego, CA 92126

858.565.1678

6 19 . 2 3 4 . 0 6 2 8

858.860.5225

4646 Convoy Street #106A San Diego, CA 92111

mira MESA LOCATION

(Entrance is on Broadway & 5th Ave.)

Experience Seafood The Way It Should Be.

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Pillbox Tavern

APPLE CRUMB BRANDY CHEESECAKE

This dessert starts with a graham cracker crust made with chopped walnuts and pinches of nutmeg and cinnamon. The cheesecake is flavored with brandy and layered with a baked apple crumb topping. Not a cheesecake fan? Consider Pillbox’s caramel apple crisp with pumpkin spice ice cream.

117 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.436.7016, pillboxtavern.com

Le Parfait Paris BÛCHE DE NOËL (CHRISTMAS LOG)

This classic French patisserie rolls out as a traditional Christmas log for the holidays. The rolled cake, designed to serve six to eight people, comes in two flavors: chocolate hazelnut, where a rolled chocolate cake is frosted with hazelnut and praline cream and then frosted with a chocolate hazelnut icing; and framboise, a white chocolate cake rolled with white chocolate.

555 G St., Gaslamp, 619.245.4457, leparfaitparis.com

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

The Cork and Craft SWEET POTATO CLAFOUTIS

Pastry chef Brenda Gonzalez creates desserts for every season. This fall’s offerings include a sweet potato-based clafoutis (a baked French dessert that mixes fruit with a flanlike batter). This cake is served with a dash of purple sweet potato puree, cranberry sauce, spiced meringue crumble and panforte ice cream.

16990 Via Tazon, Rancho Bernardo, 858.618.2463, thecorkandcraft.com

CONT. ON PAGE 70

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

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Bleu Bohème

DINING OUT CONT. FROM PAGE 68

PAIN D’EPICES

Culinary legend has it that the pain d’epices, a dense, honeyinfused quick bread, dates to the Brittany region of France in the late 1500s. This modern French restaurant has adapted the recipe into a gingerbread loaf. Slices are served warm with strawberry confit and a scoop of caramel ice cream.

4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167, bleuboheme.com

JFIGsixAND BRIE TART M A RT I N M A N N

Almost too pretty to eat, this sweet and savory baked tart is made with creamy French cheese and sliced figs seasoned with herb-infused local honey and the spicy leaves and flowers of the anise plant.

616 J St., East Village, 619.531.8744, jsixresaurant.com

barleymash

GRILLED S’MORES SANDWICH

This holiday warmup offers one of the county’s most unique takes on campfire s’mores. House-made slices of molten vanilla bean marshmallow and warm bourbon chocolate ganache are sandwiched between fresh-toasted slices of cinnamon swirl bread and served with a scoop of cinnamon crunch ice cream that’s decorated with a Christmas treeshaped graham cracker cookie.

600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373, barleymash.com CONT. ON PAGE 72

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

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DINING OUT CONT. FROM PAGE 70

r Tasting Room Del Ma BRULÉED APPLE CUSTARD TART

The newly opened wine bar and bistro in Del Mar Village is now showcasing this petite apple pie topped with oat streusel and a scoop of eggnog ice cream, served with an accent of apple cider caramel on the side.

1435 Camino Del Mar, Ste. D, Del Mar, 858.461.0124, tastingroomdelmar.com CONT. ON PAGE 74

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

B R E A K F A S T

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Hot Fudge Ice Cream Cake — Rich chocolate fudge cake topped with vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream and a cherry.

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619.702.8410

BRIANS24.COM

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BiCE

CONT. FROM PAGE 72

BEERAMISU

The classic Italian dessert is usually made with ladyfingers soaked in espresso, but BiCE’s San Diego-inspired take marinates Italian pavesini biscuits in a stout beer reduction. The cookies are then layered with sweet mascarpone cheese and served with a stick of peppermint-striped white chocolate.

425 Island Ave., Gaslamp 619.239.2423, bicesandiego.com

Extraordinary Desserts PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE

Urban Solace

SWEET POTATO AND PECAN PIE

Chef Matt Gordon’s seasonal winter pie is made with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, toasted pecans and a topping of whipped crème fraîche. The three-layer baked pie has a hand-rolled dough crust; a creamy sweet potato and pumpkin pie-spice layer; and a light, caramelized sugar and pecan top layer. Available by the slice or the pie.

3823 30th St., North Park, 619.295.6464, solacerestaurants.com

Bottega Americano NUTELLA CROSTATA

The fresh pastries at this Italian food hall in East Village are always changing, but one of the best for the cooler winter months is the classic sweet pie made with the beloved chocolate hazelnut spread Nutella. A pastry crust is layered with Nutella and sprinkled with chopped nuts, then baked to perfection.

1195 Island Ave., East Village 619.255.7800, bottegaamericano.com

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

For the holiday season, master chef Karen Krasne is serving a baked cheesecake made with pumpkin, spices and a touch of cranberry on a buttery ginger cookie crust. It’s topped with spices, whipped cream, cranberries, pecans, orange rose petals and a sprinkling of edible gold leaf.

1430 Union St., Little Italy, 619.294.7001, extraordinarydesserts.com

LITTLE ITALY’S NEWEST RESTAURANT Featuring Top Chef Alum, Giselle Wellman

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345 6TH AVE. GASLAMP 619.550.1600 GASLMAPMEZE.COM DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

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DINING OUT Rendering of Lionfish restaurant.

e n a M Y COURSE

SEAFOOD-FORWARD RESTAURANT LIONFISH SEEKS TO BECOME KING OF THE URBAN JUNGLE BY KARLA PETERSON

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

ou do not have to be a wellheeled tourist to make yourself at home in Lionfish restaurant, opening this month in the Gaslamp’s swanky new Pendry San Diego hotel. In fact, locals already have a permanent seat at the Lionfish table. “The customer we are focused the most on is really the San Diego local,” says Andy Masi, owner of Clique Hospitality, which designed and developed the hotel’s eating and drinking venues with Montage Hotels and Resorts. “Tourists spend a day or two here and they leave. We want to create a place where someone is coming five or six times a month, not just because they are in San Diego for a trip.” The upscale hotel on the corner of Fifth Avenue and J Street has a nightlife spot (the Oxford Social Club), a rooftop lounge (the Pool House), a beer hall

(Nason’s Beer Hall), a lobby bar (Fifth & Rose) and an all-day eatery (Provisional Kitchen, Café & Mercantile). As for Lionfish, it has Chef JoJo. A Chula Vista native, Chef Jose “JoJo” Ruiz started his culinary career as a dishwasher at the neighborhood’s Yokozuna’s Japanese restaurant. By the time he graduated from Hilltop High School, he was working in Yokozuna’s sushi bar. To satisfy curiosity for what kind of San Diego-inspired food Ruiz will be serving his guests, just flip through the rest of his resume. Ruiz has been a sushi chef at JRDN at Tower23 hotel in Pacific Beach, sous chef at Oceanaire Seafood Room and chef de cuisine at Brian Malarkey’s Searsucker in the Gaslamp, executive chef at Herringbone in La Jolla and chef de cuisine at Ironside Fish & Oyster in Little Italy. To think fish might be on the menu would not be swimming up the wrong dining stream. Masi describes Lionfish’s flavor profile as, “modern coastal cuisine.” Ruiz calls it hometown cooking. CONT. ON PAGE 78

DINNER. PARTY.

COMING SOON ANDAZ SAN DIEGO | 600 F ST | 646.624.2400 | STKHOUSE.COM |

STK |

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TAST E Lionfish chef Jose “JoJo” Ruiz

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“I CONT. FROM PAGE 76

The interior of the 150-seat restaurant will be aglow with warm woods, earth-toned tiles and vintage lighting fixtures. And, like the food, Lionfish’s atmosphere will be fresh, not fussy. “The vibe of the entire hotel is modern luxury – you will have incredible luxury, but it will also be cooler and hipper and catering to the Generation Y guest looking for something fun to do,” Masi says. “Lionfish fits into that entire vibe. It is incredibly designed, but when you get in here, it is fun and relaxed. It has kind of a warm, California

CLOCKWISE (from top left): Chef Jose “JoJo” Ruiz’s dishes at Lionfish include roasted duck breast with Yukon Gold potato and seaweed gnocchi; grilled swordfish; crispy rock shrimp; and seared albacore.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

ARLENE IBARRA

t is going to be food that is closest to the ocean,” Ruiz says. “We will have Japanese, Mexican and Peruvian flavors, and as many light coastal flavors as possible. I want it to be light and very comforting. Growing up in San Diego, it’s about going to Rosarito and getting nice fish with a nice amount of texture. It’s going to be a lot of fresh fish.” Along with Ruiz’s crudos, tartares and raw-seafood platters, Lionfish’s specialties will include lobster carpaccio, a maple-sriracha pork belly and Masi’s favorite, the duck confit tostado. There will be small-plate dishes to share, tons of locally sourced produce and responsibly caught seafood, and a user-friendly collection of craft beers and cocktails.

“I was blown away by his passion and culinary expertise,” Masi says of Ruiz, who is also in charge of the food at the hotel’s Pool House rooftop lounge. “He is super-respected by local people, and, being born and raised here, he brings an essence of San Diego and years of experience working with local fishermen, and local meat and produce providers. It is incredible having this guy who eats, breathes and cooks San Diego.”

classic feel. Nothing too modern. It will be comfortable, not stuffy.” The 12-story hotel is a few blocks north of the San Diego Convention Center, so tourists and conventiongoers will be a big part of the Lionfish guest pool. The restaurant is also an easy walk from downtown’s office buildings and condos, and a hop and a skip from Petco Park and East Village. Lionfish wants to give every conceivable customer a reason to dive in. “We are smack dab in the heart of the Gaslamp, and that energy will roll into the restaurant and the hotel,” Masi says. “You have so many people. You have tourists and locals. Even on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, with the Convention Center and the ballpark, there is all of this energy down here. Our customers are all around us, and we want to create a home base for them.”

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TAST E

BEER

TAKE IT FROM THE

Tap

THE URCHIN Bottled as part of Societe Brewing’s holiday food-drive, this wine barrel-aged ale was matured on New England cranberries before being blended into its eventual balanced, tart and tannic end-form. This exquisite rare beer is currently on sale at the company’s tasting room for … $50! But there’s a way around this cost-prohibitive price-tag: Donate 50 pounds of food between now and Dec. 31 for the chance to purchase a bottle of this sour ale for five bucks. Societe Brewing Co., 8262 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Kearny Mesa, societebrewing.com

A MONTHLY TASTE OF BEER FROM HERE BY BRANDON HERNÁNDEZ

DO ME A: FLAVORS NEW BEERS TO CHEER

SEVEN SHARKS-A-CIRCLING Fresh from being named “best midsize brewing company” in the country at this year’s Great American Beer Festival (where it showcased four medalwinning beers), Karl Strauss has released the seventh annual beer in its 12 Days of Christmas series, which began in 2010 and will be wrapped with a bow in 2021. A chocolatey imperial smoked porter brewed with smoked malts to evoke beach-bonfire memories, Seven Sharks-A-Circling references the winter migration of leopard sharks vacaying in the warm waters off San Diego’s coast. Karl Strauss Brewing Co., multiple locations, karlstrauss.com CONT. ON PAGE 84 80

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

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CALLAWAY RYAN

CONT. FROM PAGE 82

BREWMASTER, GROUNDSWELL BREWING CO., GRANTVILLE AND SANTEE

smallish Grantville brewery off Mission Gorge Road, Groundswell Brewing Co. isn’t the city’s splashiest or most well-known operation, but it’s making strides to change that — such as hiring 10-year brewing pro Callaway Ryan and acquiring the Santee-based brewery and distillery formerly operated by now defunct Twisted Manzanita Ales & Spirits. With the future spread out before him, Ryan, who once headed El Cajon’s URBN St. Brewing, is ready to rock at his new, much larger digs. BRANDON HERNÁNDEZ: What prompted this big expansion, and why did you choose the Twisted Manzanita spot? CALLAWAY RYAN: We started to see more demand across the board — (for) the Grantville tasting room, account sales, bottles and distribution in Los Angeles and Orange County. We needed to take control of our brew destiny. The Santee facility will allow us to expand distribution and keep up with demand. Even though the facility is more than we need today, we will be able to grow within those four walls for at least four to five years, and probably more. It also helps us to meet our brewing needs within three to four months instead of engaging in a lengthy build-out over the next 18 to 24 months. What new and interesting things are coming from Groundswell in the near future? Having access to a more-or-less turnkey system that is 10 times the size of our previous system is a huge boon. With that and all our added capacity, we should have the ability to do a lot more fun and interesting beers. We’re already in the planning stages of a barrel-aging program with both clean and sour beers. You should expect to see more kettle-sours, big beers, collaborations and one-offs.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

BREWMASTER Q&A

H O WA R D L I P I N

“

THERE’S A GREAT SENSE OF COMMUNITY IN EAST COUNTY, AND I’M PROUD TO BE A PART OF IT.”

MEET YOUR MAKER

What are your thoughts on the growing East County beer scene? There’s a great sense of community in East County, and I’m proud to be a part of it. 2016 was a pretty intense year for our small corner of the craft community, but on the whole I would say that things are looking up. With the recent openings of some really solid breweries and several GABF medals, East County definitely ranks as a beer destination in its own right at this point. CONT. ON PAGE 86

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COMINGD A TO A HE NEW

WHAT’S W IN BRE G OR COMIN SOON DEPOT SPRINGS BEER CO. Brewing at this future La Mesa brewery will be handled by a learned fermentationist whose CV includes vaunted local op The Lost Abbey. But even without beer, this 20,000-squarefoot work in progress is cause for great anticipation, as it will house a restaurant, distillery, coffee shop, game room, outdoor courtyard and live music venue. With so much to offer, beer almost seems like a (much welcomed) bonus. 9176 Fletcher Parkway, La Mesa, depotsprings.com/beer

BURGEON BEER CO. The head brewer at Vista’s Backstreet Brewery, Anthony Tallman (a veteran who’s also logged time at Stone Brewing and Rough Draft Brewing), is working with longtime friends on his very own brewery. Scheduled to open in Carlsbad, south of McClellan Airport, Tallman’s passion project will offer a wide-ranging array of suds styles ranging from India pale ales and lagers (IPAs and IPLs, as they are more commonly referred to) to lesser-seen Belgian-style beers such as singels and grisettes. 6350 Yarrow Drive, Suite C, Carlsbad, burgeonbeer.com

DEC. 4 | SONO FEST AND CHILI COOK-OFF This test of culinary skill and intestinal fortitude offers the opportunity to wash down one- through five-alarm chili goodness with quality craft beers from some of the county’s finest breweries. 11 a.m., Thorn and 32nd streets, North and South Park, sonofestchilicookoff.com

LET’S GO TO THE HO DECEM PS BER BEER EVENTS

PINE STICK PRODUCTIONS

DEC. 31 | STONE NYE CELEBRATION Brandon Hernández is a native San Diegan with a fervent passion for craft beer and the talented individuals who produce it. He is the author of Complete Guide to San Diego Breweries, chief marketing officer for Societe Brewing Co. and contributes beer-centric content to national and San Diegobased publications. The first publication for which he ever wrote about beer was PACIFIC. Follow him on Twitter @sdbeernews and @offdutyfoodie.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

While champagne may be the quaff of choice for most New Year’s Eve events, this beer-, food- and music-fueled evening of revelry shows that all’s well that ends in ale … including a year. 8 p.m., Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens — Liberty Station, 2816 Historic Decatur Road, Point Loma, stonebrewing.com

TAST E

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r e h Ric r e r u Po I FOR

HIGH-PRICED DRINKS FOR EXPENSIVE TASTES PHOTOS BY EDUARDO CONTRERAS

n a search for the city’s most lavish wine, beer, champagne and cocktail, these four drinks rise to the top. Their credit-limitbusting prices might make Santa blush, but when there’s an urge to splurge, ’tis the season to let it flow, let it flow, let it flow.

VINO:

2010 Domaine de la

Romanée-Conti

PRICE:

$14,800 per bottle

f you want to see a wine lover’s eyes light up like a Christmas tree, whisper “DRC” in their ear. Better yet, order a bottle of the 2010 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti off the astoundingly deep wine list at Pamplemousse Grille. Considered not just one of the best pinot noirs in the world, but one of the best wines, period, this seductively ethereal DRC “would be tremendous with anything with truffles,” says Pamplemousse GM and sommelier Steve Ernst. At $3,500 a glass, it’s not dirt cheap but, as Ernst notes, it’s got hints of the classic Burgundian “fresh-turned earth and mushroom.” — Michele Parente PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE 514 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach 858.792.9090, pgrille.com

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

NE: C H A M PAG

bonnay

1998 Krug Clos d’Am PRICE:

$8,500 per bottle

othing is more festive than bubbles, and no Champagne house is more luxe than Krug. Let amateurs pop the Cristal or Dom Perignon. For the big money, only Krug will do. At Addison, San Diego’s swankiest restaurant, wine director Rafael Sanchez points to a particularly precious vintage. “Our most luxurious bottle of Champagne is the 1998 Krug ‘Clos d’Ambonnay,’ he says. The Clos d’Ambonnay is made from 100 percent pinot noir grapes grown in a miniscule walled vineyard, and, adding to its exclusivity, only 5,000 bottles of it were produced. “It has incredible delicacy and freshness,” Sanchez says, “and is supported by some serious muscle.” A hefty bubbly worthy of its hefty price tag. — Michele Parente ADDISON 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Carmel Valley 858.314.1900 addisondelmar.com CONT. ON PAGE 90

DECEMBER DECEMBER2016 2016• •PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

87 87

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BEER:

St. Bernardus Abt 12 PRICE:

ttle

$225 for a six-liter bo

eer is a cheap thrill, something that can be bought by the case without breaking the bank. Right? Usually. One budget-busting exception to the rule: St. Bernardus Abt 12 at O’Brien’s Pub. This imported Belgian quad may be the priciest beer in town: $225 for a towering six-liter bottle. Not up on metric measurements? OK, six liters is 12 pints and a splash. For a proper splurge, pour this saint into a goblet and take a sniff then a sip – but don’t waste a drop. This heavenly, full-bodied and potent (10 percent alcohol) blend of raisins, plums, cloves, pepper and caramelized sugar costs $17.75 a pint. — Peter Rowe O’BRIEN’S PUB 4646 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa 858.715.1745, obrienspub.net

ive into a deep-sea adventure at Miss B’s Coconut Club with this leviathan-esque cocktail. Festooned with seaweed, The Lusca – Creature from Beneath the Sea is a concoction of house-blended rum, guava-mango kombucha, Nocello (walnut and hazelnut liqueur from Italy), citrus fruits, honey and papaya – crowned with a pineapple head. While dropping a Benjamin might seem spendy for a cocktail, this monster serves up to 10 people, so be sure to invite the gang. — Laurie Delk

The Lusca – ath the Sea Creature from Bene

: COCKTAIL

PRICE: 88

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

$100

MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB 3704 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach 858.381.0855, missbcoconutclub.com

12.31

17 0 2 e v E s r a e Y New

· complimentary C H A M P A G N E T O A S T A T M I D N I G H T ·

Photo Booth BY THE FOTOBOX

performance by the lovely Adelaide

WITH HER MENAGERIE OF B E L LY DA N C E R S & S NA K E C HA R M E R S

featuring beats by

Cheyenne Giles

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f o o r P LIVING

101 REASONS TO VISIT O’SIDE’S NEW SPEAKEASY BY MICHAEL BENNINGER PHOTOS BY K.C. ALFRED

ot all great Christmas gifts come from the North Pole. Some come from North County. Just in time for Santa’s arrival, Oceanside’s Urge Gastropub & Whiskey Bank has unwrapped its latest addition: a 35-seat, Prohibition-inspired speakeasy dubbed 101 Proof. Occupying a cozy 600-square-foot room, this jazzy joint has a menu of more than 300 whiskeys – and a set of house rules including a strict dress code, a ban on selfies and a maximum limit of three hours in the bar. Dale Hersey, the man behind the new bar, breaks it down.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

PACIFIC: Where are you from, and where’s home now? DALE HERSEY: I grew up in Temecula and moved to North County when I was 20. I absolutely fell in love with the area and I’ll probably never leave. Everything is so close. You’ve got the beach, you can go hiking, and the people are cool. It’s laidback and, since I’m not necessarily a hustle-and-bustle person myself, it’s nice to be around that. What led you to become a barman? I like people. Everybody’s got an interesting story and something going on. One thing they always say about the bar industry is people drink when they’re happy, and people drink when they are sad. That’s why you’ll never see this industry go away. Where else have you worked around town? I currently work at Hello Betty in Oceanside as well, and that’s fun. I worked down at Stag and Lion, a fun little English pub in Carlsbad, and before that I was at the Flying Elephant, a cool rock-and-roll pub that was right up my alley.

How have visitors to 101 Proof reacted to the venue so far? I thought it was going to be quiet and would take a while for the name to get out, but right off the bat we had people saying, “Ooh, we heard about this,” or “I saw a picture online.” There’s been a big influx. We like to think we shock and awe. We have some amazing cocktails that, as soon as you taste them, you can tell that they’re well thought-out. Someone didn’t just throw stuff in the glass and hope for the best. Not only are our drinks cool to look at, but they taste amazing. What distinguishes Urge and 101 from other venues in Oceanside? The food’s amazing, the drinks are off the charts, and our bartenders all share the same passion for beer and whiskey. There’s a lot of information going around, and it’s nice to have that educational twist. Some places have nice whiskeys, and lots of bars have nice beers, but being able to ask a question and getting an educated answer is one thing that sets Urge apart. You know you’re going to get a

well-crafted drink and you’re going to know why it tastes as good as it does. And we serve food items like foie gras and seared scallops, which isn’t necessarily something you see on the bar menu at most places.

The second tier is the Committed and includes more tastings and two bottles from our private reserve. And club members also go straight to the front of the line – if you happen to be in the area and didn’t make a reservation.

What’s the skinny on the dress code? We want everyone to come in and we wouldn’t want to turn anyone away, but we’re working on creating an atmosphere and an experience that is your night out. We’d hate for someone who’s been looking forward to a reservation made two weeks prior to come in and sit next to some knucklehead who just happened to show up and walk in for a couple of drinks. It could ruin the experience. We don’t want to be discriminating, but we do want to be exclusive.

101 Proof is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to midnight. Reservations are recommended and can be requested at any time.

What are a couple of the bar’s signature drinks? The Boom Tiki Tiki is definitely the house favorite. We have fun making it, we have fun drinking it and we have fun watching people drink it. It’s basically a tiki-style drink with fresh-squeezed fruit juices we call “boom sauce,” mixed with a ton of fresh garnishes. And we actually have a living orchid behind the bar that we pluck flowers off of and throw into the glass. I don’t want to give away all the details, but it’s lit on fire and looks pretty cool. And we have an amazing old-fashioned list, and not just ones made with whiskey.

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? I absolutely love snowboarding and, to this day, my personal favorite gift was when my parents got me an old, used snowboard when I was 16. It was a Jeff Brushie original pro model. Growing up, that guy was my hero. I still have the board but don’t ride it anymore.

Word is you have a membership program. How does that work? We have two levels: the Curious and the Committed. The Curious is $500 per year, and there are quite a few perks. To sum it up, that price gets you your own locker and a bottle of one of our 10 single-barrel liquors. That bottle will sit in your locker, and you can share it with your friends or keep it for yourself. Other perks include vouchers and invites to private parties only available to members.

101 Proof (inside Urge Gastropub) 2002 S. Coast Hwy., Oceanside 101proofoceanside.com

WRAP STARS DALE HERSEY PRESENTS HIS PRESENTS

What’s the worst gift you’ve received? She’ll probably hate this, but, when I was young, one of my aunts was in the Navy and would travel a lot. When she was in the Philippines, she actively sought out these bulk gifts for my brother and sister and me. Like the worst shirts, the ugliest sweaters. It was horrible. What gift are you hoping to receive this year? Just staying on a straight line and not having too many ups and downs would be nice for a change.

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

GROOVE

SOUND DECISIONS PG. 94 | SPIN CYCLE PG. 102 DECEMBER CONCERT CALENDAR | BY SCOTT McDONALD

PinkMartini 12.3

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

@ CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO, ARTCENTER.ORG

Portland’s “Little Orchestra” just released its 10th album, “Je dis oui!” last month. The album features longtime friends singer Rufus Wainwright and NPR White House correspondent Ari Shapiro. CONT. ON PAGE 96

G RO OVE

SOUND DECISIONS CONT. FROM PAGE 94

BY SCOTT MCDONALD 12.1: DAUGHTER

12.4: A JOHN WATERS CHRISTMAS

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com

The Elena Tonra-fronted English indie folk trio released its sophomore full-length, “Not to Disappear,” at the beginning of the year.

12.2: HELMET AND LOCAL H @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com New York hardcore vets pair with Illinois grunge duo for what’s sure to be a night of swirling, sweaty bodies and the volume cranked to 11.

12.2: LIVING LEGENDS @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The 10th annual “How The Grouch Stole Christmas” tour will feature Dilated Peoples’ MC Evidence joining all of the original members (past and present) of L.A. hip-hop crew Living Legends, Murs, Eligh, Scarub, Aesop, Bicasso, Luckyiam, Sunspot Jonz, and The Grouch.

12.3: RÜFÜS DU SOL @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Australian dance trio Rüfüs (the du Sol is added in North America) consists of singer/ guitarist Tyrone Lindqvist, keyboardist Jon George, and drummer James Hunt. The band released its sophomore LP, “Bloom,” in January.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

Sure, John Waters isn’t a musician. But the legendary cult filmmaker and author has influenced popular culture (see NBC’s Hairspray Live! with Ariana Grande) as much as any artist on this list. Plus, he has amazing stories.

12.5: MIIKE SNOW

12.2 Guttermouth

@ SODA BAR, SODABARMUSIC.COM

Vet O.C. pop punks take over the Soda Bar for a night. Their six-song “Got It Made” EP was released in July.

12.3 Two Door

DECEMBER CONCERT CALENDAR

Sounds Like A Plan

CinemaClub

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com

@ HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

The Swedish synth-pop trio is currently on tour in support of their March-released third album, “iii.” CONT. ON PAGE 98

“Gameshow,” the third studio album from this Irish indie rock trio, was released in October. Its lead song, “Are We Ready? (Wreck)” was also included on the soundtrack for popular soccer video game FIFA 17.

PROMOTION

[

Each year, the Gaslamp Quarter Association recognizes the neighborhood’s best businesses through its annual Lamplighter Awards, the winners of which are selected by their fellow Gaslamp businesses. Cheers to this year’s winners (listed below), who, along with the other businesses of the Gaslamp, help the historic heart of downtown beat.

Best New Restaurant/Bar: Biga

Favorite Café: Park Place Café

Best New Shop/Gallery: San Diego Trading Company

Favorite Pizza: Ciro’s Pizzeria & Beerhouse

Favorite Hotel: Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

Favorite Steakhouse: Fogo de Chão

Favorite Attraction: The Haunted Hotel & Great Room Escape

Favorite American Cuisine: barleymash

Favorite Professional Service Provider: RMD Group Consulting Favorite Casual Dining: Union Kitchen & Tap Favorite Fine Dining: Blue Point Coastal Cuisine Favorite Quick Bites: The HUB Market & Deli

Favorite Asian Cuisine: Ramen Yamadaya Favorite Indian Cuisine: Royal India Exquisite Restaurant & Lounge Favorite Ethnic Cuisine: Meze Greek Fusion Favorite Italian Cuisine: BiCE Ristorante

Favorite Dessert: My Yogurt

Favorite Mexican, Latin, or Spanish Cuisine: Don Chido

Favorite Sushi: Taka Sushi

Favorite Seafood Restaurant: Tin Fish

Favorite Brunch:

Favorite Burger: Burger Lounge

Rustic Root

Favorite Shopping – Health & Beauty: A Style Concierge Favorite Shopping – Specialties & Services: Downtown Ace Hardware Favorite Shopping – Accessories: Eyes on Fifth Favorite Shopping – Footwear: Skechers Favorite Art Gallery: Michael J. Wolf Fine Arts Favorite Shopping: Boutique: Dolcetti Boutique Favorite Shopping – Gifts & Souvenirs: It’Sugar Favorite Convenience Store: The Emergency Room Convienience Store Favorite Tattoo Parlor: Off the Wall Tattoos

Favorite Pawn Shop: Aztec Pawn Brokers Favorite Lounge: Vin de Syrah Spirit & Wine Parlor Favorite Hookah Lounge: Pasha Lounge Favorite Pub: Henry’s Pub Favorite Venue for Live Music: The Shout! House Favorite Cigar Shop / Lounge / Tobacconist: Gran Havana Favorite Bar: Prohibition Favorite Nightclub: Parq Restaurant and Nightclub Favorite “Friend of the Gaslamp Quarter”: Allen’s Flowers & Plants

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SOUND DECISIONS CONT. FROM PAGE 96

12.10 91X Wrex (Night 1)

the Halls

@ VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER, VALLEYVIEWCASINOCENTER.COM The first of two holiday-flavored shows put on by the local radio station features performances from Beck, Band of Horses, Local Natives, Glass Animals, and Bishop Briggs.

12.5: THE JAPANESE HOUSE

12.10-11: JONNY LANG

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com

The Japanese House is the moniker of 20-year-old English singer Amber Bain. Her third consecutive 4-song collection, the “Swim Against the Tide EP” was released last month.

12.9: THE ALBUM LEAF @ The Irenic, theirenic.com San Diego’s own Jimmy LaValle brings his flagship project to the Irenic in support of his new album, “Between Waves,” the first on Relapse Records.

12.9: TIJUANA PANTHERS @ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com The Long Beach garage-rock trio released its latest album, “Poster,” in 2015, again fusing garage, surf, and punk into their trademark sound.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

The Grammy-winning guitarist and singer returns to Solana Beach for a double-dip at the Belly Up Tavern.

12.11: 91X WREX THE HALLS (NIGHT 2) @ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com The closing night of 91X’s holiday-flavored two-night run takes a punk rock turn with performances from local superstars Blink-182 and Pierce The Veil, while also featuring Jimmy Eat World and Kaleo.

12.12: JONATHAN RICHMAN W/TOMMY LARKINS @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com The same pair seen singing Ben Stiller’s theme music in There’s Something About Mary, the one-time Modern

Lovers front man and his longtime drummer return to the Belly Up Tavern for an encore performance.

12.13: THE SHELTERS @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com The L.A.-based rock quartet released its Warner Bros. eponymous debut in June.

12.14-15: VINCE NEIL @ Sycuan, sycuan.com “The Voice of Mötley Crüe” is out on the road alone because his former band is supposedly no longer playing shows. They’ve cried wolf in that department previously, but it isn’t keeping the ’80s front man from doing his thing.

12.15: THE DANDY WARHOLS @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com With a new album under their belts, the long-running

Portland-based psychrockers head out on their Distortland Tour.

12.15: CHARLIE HUNTER QUINTET @ Museum of Making Music, museumofmakingmusic.org With perhaps the greatest album title of 2016, the veteran guitarist, composer and songwriter released the Mike Tyson-inspired “Everyone Has A Plan Until They Get Punched in the Mouth” in July.

12.15-18: X @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Their “40 Years” tour can be seen with a four-day pass, or with four different openers during this mini-residency. Thursday, Mike Watt and the Secondmen; Friday, The Blasters; Saturday, Small Wigs; and Sunday, Chris Shifflet. CONT. ON PAGE 100

3.875x9.875_Pacific SD_December 2016_BLEEDS.pdf

11/22/16

2:52 PM

SEND END YOUR

FRIENDS RIENDS & FAMILY TO T

12.13 Sara Watkins

@ BELLY UP TAVERN, BELLYUP.COM

Another local made (better than) good, Nickel Creek fiddler and singer-songwriter Watkins released her third solo album, “Young in All the Wrong Reasons,” in July.

12.16 An Evening With

CMY

The Chris Robinson Brotherhood

Purchase Five $20 “Stocking Stuffer” Gift Certificates for Only $60 FOR THE Exclusive “Holiday Paella Gift Kit” Available for Only $59 Visit cafesevilla.com for More Information

@ OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK, OBSERVATORYSD.COM

The former Black Crowes singer brings his jam-infused catalog of originals and covers to North Park for an evening with the band.

HOLIDAYS H OLIDAYS

Purchase $100 of Gift Certificates for Only $60 Purchase a $60 Gift Card, Receive a FREE $10 Gift Card Purchase a $100 Gift Card, Receive a FREE $20 Gift Card

& MORE! visit cafesevilla.com for more information

TAPASTAPAS BAR BAR

JOIN US FOR THE

REVEAL BIGBIG REVEAL JOIN US FOR THE

DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

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SOUND DECISIONS CONT. FROM PAGE98

J E N N Y LY N N P H O T O G R A P H Y

@ Pechanga, pechanga.com The senior Stray Cat makes his yearly holiday parade down the West Coast for a no-holds-barred show that has become a tradition.

12.27: HENRY ROLLINS @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Rollins will not be reprising his role as front man of seminal punk acts Black Flag or Rollins Band; instead, he will talk about a vast array of subjects, from personal anecdotes to world affairs. Still, hard to go wrong with this one.

12.29: MELVINS & REDD KROSS @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com After officially adding Redd Kross (and Off!) bassist Steve McDonald to the band, the Melvins released “Basses Loaded” in June. The album also

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

features every member who has been a part of the band in the past decade, giving extra focus to the bassists.

12.29-30: TRIBAL THEORY @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego San Diego Music Awardwinning locals earn themselves an end-of-year two-night blowout at the House of Blues.

12.30: CHERRY GLAZERR @ The Irenic, theirenic.com The young L.A. rock quintet has found a nice second home in San Diego, and it returns once again to the Irenic to ring in New Year’s weekend with style.

12.31: CASH’D OUT @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com San Diego’s premier Johnny Cash tribute act honky-tonks fans into the New Year at The Casbah.

12.22 Fishbone &

The Aggrolites @ BELLY UP TAVERN, BELLYUP.COM

12.29 Cracker & Camper Van Beethoven

12.16: BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA

Not exactly a traditional holiday celebration, the “Crazy Glue XXXMas” tour will likely skip the Yuletide carols and focus more on ska and skanking.

@ MUSIC BOX, MUSICBOXSD.COM The annual Cracker/Camper show moves to the Music Box after years and years at the Belly Up. Time to get “Low” in Little Italy for a change.

SP PE EN ND D S

THE HOLIDAYS

WITH YOUR MISS Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FAMILY

OPEN 9AM-10PM CHRISTMAS EVE & CHRISTMAS DAY 3704 MISSION BLVD. MISSION BEACH | (858) 381-0855 | MISSBCOCONUTCLUB.COM MISSBSCOCONUTCLUB @MISSBCOCONUTCLUB @MISSBSCOCOCLUB

G RO OVE

SPIN CYCLE

A E TAK

S P I N

12.1 HOOK N SLING

M &S D E ING MANCE M O UPC ERFORMcDonald DJ PBy Scott

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

Hook N Sling, the Australian-born, L.A.-based DJ and producer Anthony Maniscalco, recently teamed with Galantis on the single “Love On Me.”

12.3 HEROBUST

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com

Atlanta-based producer/DJ Hayden Kramer (aka heRobust) released his eight-track “I’m Aloud” EP on Mad Decent last January. He followed it with a fivetrack remix EP of the same name in September.

12.2 AMINE EDGE & DANCE @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com

French producer/DJ duo responsible for the CUFF label, the pair released their three-song “Fck Ur Opinion” EP in September on Desolat.

CHAZ BADEMAN

JULIANA BERNSTEIN

100

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • DECEMBER 2016

12.2 LOOKAS

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

Featured last year on Flo Rida’s “GDFR,” the Miamibased trap DJ released his own single, “Game Over,” with Crankdat in January.

12.16 CHEAT CODES

12.3: THE CHAINSMOKERS

12.17: BREACH

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

@ Parq, parqsd.com

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com

After featuring with Moguai last year, the L.A.-based trio scored by sampling Salt-N-Pepa on their summer hit, “Sex,” with Kriss Kross Amsterdam. The just-released “Shed A Light” finds them featuring for Robin Schulz and David Guetta.

After a 12-week reign, the best-selling DJ duo’s “Closer” just got knocked off of the top spot on Billboard’s Hot 100. They’ll help celebrate the run with this sold-out date at Parq.

Fresh from his recent San Diego appearance at Groundwater in October, British DJ/producer Ben Westbeech makes a return visit.

12.9: BAAUER

12.29.16-1.1.17: OMFG! NYE 2017

@ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com

@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com

“Harlem Shake” producer Harry Bauer Rodrigues released his debut studio album, “Aa,” in March. His latest single, “Night Out,” features Chaki Zulu, KEPHA, JB, kZm, and PETZ.

12.15: JULIAN JORDAN

12.9 9 RAIN MAN

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

Former producer/member of Chicago EDM trio Krewella, Rain Man (aka Kris Trindl) has joined Steve Aoki’s Dim Mak and just released the single “Habit” with Krysta Youngs.

Four straight nights of ringing in the New Year with a rotating cast of performers that includes DJ SNAKE, Adventure Club, Jauz, GTA, Anna Lunoe, Slander and more.

@ OMNIA, omnianightclub.com

12.31: JUSTIN MARTIN

The 21-year-old Dutch DJ started his own label this year, GOLDKID Records, and is currently teaming with Martin Garrix on the Octoberreleased single “Welcome.”

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Another Groundwater alum, this Dirtybird Records cofounder heads back to SD for a New Year’s Eve party with label mate Ardalan in tow. DECEMBER 2016 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

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BLIND AMBITIONS A LOOK BACK AT 11 GOOD TRIES

or the 10th year in a row, PACIFIC’s illustrious matchmaking team set out in January to create love connections across the city. Out of the 11 blind dates they set up in 2016, 3.5 ended with a kiss (that we know of ). That’s three couples who answered “yes” when asked if there had been a kiss or romantic exchange – and one female blind dater who said, “I honestly couldn’t tell you. I don’t think so. But then again, you never know.” (Her date said there was a “casual goodnight kiss.”) In most cases, even the daters who didn’t find romance had a blast, at least for part of the night. In one case, though, a woman said of her date, “I wish he had a bigger filter and a smaller mouth. At the end of the night, he got really drunk and got really loud. I wanted to separate myself from him, so I did. His friend and I left to OMNIA.” PACIFIC’s official marriage-to-blind-date ratio is now 2:116, and the two were nearly a decade ago. It’s high time to make some magic happen here. To that end, if you or someone you know is PACIFIC blind-date material, email a photo and a sentence or two about yourself and what you’re looking for in a date to setmeup@pacificsandiego.com. In the meantime, let’s have a round of applause for 2016’s blind daters, many of whom are still single, despite their favorite magazine’s best efforts.

JANUARY 2016

ICE TO MEET YOU, TWO A second chance at finding romance Lindsay (who had also gone on PACIFIC’s September 2015 blind date) met Tellas for drinks at downtown’s The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole before further breaking the ice at Liberty Station’s holiday season skating rink. After slip-sliding away, the couple enjoyed a fireside dinner at Soda & Swine (also in Liberty Station). When asked about a kiss during the mid-date debriefings, Lindsay said, “I think that already happened.” Tellas said, “Her lips are pretty epic.” When asked about a second date, she said, “Yes, there will be.” He said, “Hell, yes.” They saw each other for a couple of months after the date, but then things fizzled. “Tellas and I casually dated for a little bit,” Lindsay said in a follow-up interview. CONT. ON PAGE 104

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BLIND DATE CONT. FROM PAGE 102

FEBRUARY 2016

THREE-WAY OF LOVE Take a ride in the speed-dating fast lane Danielle, Jenn and Rebecca met Casey, Stephen and Taylor for a triple blind date, which began with margaritas and tacos at Puesto at The Headquarters (by Seaport Village). Next, the group spiced things up with a shopping excursion to Hustler Hollywood in East Village before heading to the Gaslamp for dinner at Café Sevilla. Between the sex shop and Sevilla, Casey disappeared, returning later with his dog. While no love connections were formed, everyone had a good laugh. When asked about the funniest thing that happened during the date, Danielle said, “Watching how everyone reacted to certain items at Hustler, you could tell a little bit about their sex life.” Jenn said, “The boys nerding out about science.” Rebecca said, “I made fun of people from Orange County, and one of the guys was from there. Oops.” Casey said, “We had a good time taking photos and browsing items at the Hustler Store. I mean, how can you not have fun at a sex-toy store?” Stephen said, “Casey’s impromptu posing session was by far the most hilarious thing that happened. Guy sure knows how to make love to the camera.” And Taylor said, “I think a lot of funny things went down at Hustler. Electrocuting each other was interesting.”

MARCH 2016

HAIR OF THE DOG A blind dater returns to the scene of the K-9 Casey, the guy who brought his dog to the February 2016 blind date, got a second chance at love in the March 2016 issue, when he and Nikala went to see a San Diego Gulls game – during which they smooched on the Kiss Cam, met the team mascot, and then stepped onto the ice to compete (and win) against another couple in building a giant artificial burrito. Afterward, they went to Harney Sushi in Old Town for dinner, getting along famously throughout the evening. When asked if there’d be a second date, Nikala said, “I would be surprised if he didn’t want one, seeing as how he proposed already.” Casey said, “We’re getting married next weekend. I guess that will technically be our second date.” CONT. ON PAGE 106

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San Diegoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coolest (Fill in the blank in the first ever Coolest Awards, coming in January. Check pacificsandiego.com/coolest for updates.)

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APRIL 2016 FLYING HIGH

Romance takes flight after dark After going indoor skydiving at iFly in Mission Valley, London and Andrew headed to North Park to enjoy drinks and food at two of the neighborhood’s most popular spots, Waypoint Public and Park & Rec. When asked if she wanted to kiss her date at the mid-date break, London said, “Yeah.” Andrew said, “Already did. It was in the limo; it was pretty nice. It’s been a very good date.” Despite the apparent connection, however, a second date seemed unlikely. When asked what could have made the date better, she said, “If we had a little more in common.” He said, “I was attracted to her, but if I had to say anything, maybe a little hotter and a little older. She was a little green.”

M AY 2 0 1 6

UNSUNG HEROES Vocal locals go coastal House music DJ/producer Lana met Christian music hip-hopper Graham for sunset cocktails and appetizers at Wonderland Ocean Pub before heading up the street for dinner at O.B. Warehouse. Next, PACIFIC took the couple to The Lamplighter in Mission Hills to sing karaoke, but they refused to pick up the mic. While these two might make beautiful music, they didn’t end up doing so together. When asked which song best summed up their date’s personality, Lana said, “‘Sharp Dressed Man,’ by ZZ Top,” and Graham said, “‘Get the Party Started,’ by P!nk.” CONT. ON PAGE 108

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JUNE 2016

ARE YOU SHORE? ’Twas a hot night out, if memory serves… Jessica and Cesar embarked upon a beach-area hospitality tour that began at Miss B’s Coconut Club in Mission Beach, then moved on to Pacific Beach Ale House, Pacific Beach Shore Club and Level 2 at George’s in La Jolla. Before the date, when asked what kind of guy she was looking for, Jessica said, “I don’t mess with vanilla f***boys.” After the date, although she and Cesar seemed to get along well throughout the evening, her memory became hazy. Regarding whether or not there was a kiss, she said, “I honestly couldn’t tell you. I don’t think so. But then again, you never know.” He said, “Casual goodnight kiss. Kept it respectful. I wouldn’t say there was a romantic exchange, but we seemed to vibe. She’s a little young for me.”

J U LY 2 0 1 6

LOFTY ASPIRATIONS The search for love reaches new heights Michelle and Justin soared above the North County coastline in a Hendrick’s Gin hot air balloon, and then headed to Carmel Valley for dinner and drinks at Westroot Tavern. Despite shooting for the stars, however, PACIFIC failed to create a love connection. When asked about the worst part of the date, Michelle said, “He got really drunk and got really loud. I wanted to separate myself from him, so I did. His friend and I left to OMNIA.” Justin said, “Me and her didn’t click really well, but we had fun enjoying San Diego’s nightlife.” Regarding what they learned about themselves during the date, she said, “That I have more patience than I thought.” He said, “Tequila, vodka and whiskey cause a horrible hangover.” CONT. ON PAGE 110

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AUGUST 2016 FIRE AND ICE

How a hot night on the town hits the deep freeze After soaking in drinks, appetizers and the view at Coasterra on Harbor Island, Frances and David disrobed for full-body cryotherapy treatments at Chiltonic in Hillcrest. Once they had their clothes back on, the couple headed to Little Italy for dinner at Barbusa. These two warmed up to each other quickly. She said, “I thought he was super cute and sweet. And we wore matching shirts.” He said, “She is nice, she’s pretty and she’s a lot of fun.” By the end of the date, however, there may have been some cooling. When asked about the likelihood of a second date, Frances said, “Yes, if he’s lucky.” David said, “I’m sure that we will see each other again – under what circumstances TBD.”

SEPTEMBER 2016 OPEN AND CLOTHES

A story of matchmaking and matching colors Blind daters Julia and Alex rocked rolls and cocktails at H2O Sushi & Izakaya in Hillcrest before heading to Fashion Valley for a fashionable shopping spree at Scotch & Soda. After the mall, they got (arcade) game at Coin Haus in La Mesa. The two seemed to connect, but not in the way Julia was used to. When asked if Alex was the type of guy she’d normally date, she said, “Yes and no. He’s definitely a lot sweeter than what I’m normally used to…. And, no – he doesn’t have that badboy personality, but there’s something about him that’s actually really attractive.” When asked if Julia was his usual type, Alex said, “Yes.” As for the likelihood of a second date, she said, “Maybe, maybe not. We’ll see.” He said, “I’d be surprised if there wasn’t. I think we got along great.” CONT. ON PAGE 112

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OCTOBER 2016 BETTOR BELIEVE IT

Imagine hitting the dating jackpot Jolie and Trey’s blind date took place at Sycuan, beginning with drinks and appetizers at the casino’s snazzy-ish restaurant, Wachena. Next they had a meet-’n’-greet with the bands coheadlining the evening’s concert – Naughty by Nature, All 4 One and Coolio (En Vogue also performed but didn’t participate in the meet-’n’greet) – before heading to their front-row seats and getting on-stage props from the performers. Post-concert, the couple played blackjack at Game Day Sports Bar. After Sycuan, they took their Epic Limo to the beach for a midnight stroll. Regarding a kiss or romantic exchange, Jolie said, “There was an incredible romantic vibe. He was holding me so sweetly on the beach. I absolutely loved being in his energy. We are going to explore our chemistry and connection on date Number Two.” He said, “We kept it tooootally platonic.” As for the likelihood of a second date, she said, “There will absolutely be a second date. He made me feel so honored and adored.” He said, “Yeah, there will be a second date. We got along great and have a lot in common.”

NOVEMBER 2016

STEPPING UP TO THE PLATES Taking a swing at a culinary fling In celebration of PACIFIC’s 10th annual dining issue, blind daters Savannah and Rob enjoyed chef-selected small plates and paired cocktails at four new restaurants: The Lot at Liberty Station, Sally’s Fish House & Bar in the Marina District, Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen in Little Italy and Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers in the Gaslamp. The couple seemed to hit it off from the start. Savannah said, “I am having so much fun. This is one of the best experiences I have ever had.” And Alex said, “It’s going great. She is a very sweet girl, outgoing.” Despite the heat of the kitchens, however, a spark between these two didn’t take. In the end, she said she wished he had, “bigger opinions and smaller questions.” He said, instead of going to five restaurants, “It might be a fun idea to have gone on a date with five different girls.”

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