January 2015 PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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THE NIGHTCLUB & BAR ISSUE
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Scene: LED wall at Parq Restaurant and Nightclub.
2 levels, rooftop patio with ocean view | complimentary valet | 722 Grand Ave. San Diego, Ca 92109 | www.firehousepb.com | 858.274.3100 | info@firehousepb.com
P E R S O N A L I Z E D PA R A D I S E
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EDITOR’S NOTE {JANUARY 2015}
PHOTOGRAPHIC MEMORY
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’m not religious, but I do thank god camera phones, as they were called before anyone ever thought to say “smartphone,” didn’t exist when I started going out downtown. It was sometime in the early ’90s; pinning down a precise date is tough because my Facebook won’t scroll back that far. When my friends and I weren’t hanging out at P.B. Bar and Grill, Moondoggies (which is about to become Backyard Kitchen & Tap; see “Fare Enough,” page 80), Moose McGillycuddy’s (now Typhoon Saloon), Fibber McGee’s (which became RT’s Longboard Grill and then Cabo Cantina), Billy Bones (which became Margarita Rocks and then Bar West) or our other beach-area faves, we’d often party at what was then the nightlife beacon of the Galsamp, Olé Madrid (which became Voyeur, which is about to become Cake; see “Join the Club,” page 60). Moby was the techno king of the day, and today’s Electro house (an EDM term that didn’t exist yet, much like the term “EDM” itself ) mega-star Hardwell was about five years old. As for me, I was Dancing Boy. I had two awkward signature moves and a few less elegant ones that made those two look smooth by comparison, but that didn’t stop me from tearing up the dance floor in my standard uniform: baggy jeans, Doc Martens and a vest… without a t-shirt underneath. There’s a pic you won’t (and wouldn’t want to) find on Insta. I only wish that were the most embarrassing thing I’ve done on the San Diego nightlife scene. In 1999, against all odds, I found my wife at a gay bar, Rich’s in Hillcrest (now celebrating its 23rd year). And now, after all these years, it’s time for me to come out of the closet… well, out of the liquor cabinet, anyway. This may not be the best way to reveal such news about my private life (especially to my mother), but I have to get it off my chest. I got a DUI.
It was nearly four years ago, on the night of the ShamROCK St. Patrick’s Day block party in the Gaslamp. I was driving up 11th Avenue to jump on the 5 North and head home when a cop lit me up and told me to get out of the car. As I stood on the side of the road with one foot off the ground and my eyes closed, counting backwards by sevens from 96 to 43, a dozen cars honked to help celebrate my achievement, and at least two people shouted Asshole! or the like. One guy driving by yelled, “Take a cab next time, Perloff!” I checked into jail looking like a preppy skinhead — my scalp showing as a result of the St. Baldrick’s shave-a-thon for kids’ cancer charities five days earlier (thanks for making me look almost like a badass during my time on the inside, Jamie Lynn Sigler) — and wearing my current standard nightlife uniform: jeans and a t-shirt… no vest. No on-the-scene photographers ever took shots of me in my dancing days, but SDPD sure has me in their collection of nightlife photos. I regret putting others in danger by driving under the influence, which I must admit having done over a span of decades. It may have been my expired registration sticker that got me pulled over, but it was my bloodalcohol-content that got me handcuffed. When I got home from jail about 16 hours later (check-out was backed up due to all the St. Patrick’s Day DUI checkpoints), I found my registration sticker in the mail. It had arrived that morning. Please enjoy this Nightclub & Bar issue of PacificSD, dear Reader. The San Diego scene is exploding, so get out there and have a blast… and then call Uber. When you do, one thing you won’t have to worry about is finding me behind the wheel. Like Car2Go, Uber doesn’t accept drivers who’ve had a DUI within the past five years. Oh, and definitely get a smog check when the DMV sends you a notice, lest you end up with a picture (it’s called a mugshot — sorry, Mom!) that’s worth a thousand words, not to mention $10,000 in fines and legal fees.
Sincerely, David Perloff, Editor-in-Chief 10
PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • JANUARY 2015
“No on-the-scene photographers ever took shots of me in my dancing days, but SDPD sure has me in their collection of nightlife photos.”
Excuse me, miss... your night’s on fire.
PacificSD presents the Nightclub & Bar issue release party at Parq
Thursday, January 15 (9 p.m. – 2 a.m.) Live performance by:
Skylar Grey Skylar Grey — co-writer of Eminem’s “Love the Way You Lie” and vocalist on Nicki Minaj’s “Bed of Lies,” Dr. Dre’s “I Need a Doctor” and Diddy’s “Coming Home” — will perform her hit tracks for this exclusive San Diego show.
With sounds by
Ages 21+ only. For bottle service and table reservations, email: VIP@parqsd.com. This event will sell out. Please purchase advance tickets at parqsd.com/pacific San Diego
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(San Diego)
(Hakkasan, Las Vegas)
615 Broadway, Downtown
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JANUARY 2015
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF David Perloff
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kenny Boyer MANAGING EDITOR Catlin Dorset CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michael Benninger, Brandon Hernández, Brandon Matzek, David Nelson COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Andrew Jorgensen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brevin Blach, Andrew Jorgensen, Brandon Matzek, Kristina Yamamoto
PUBLISHERS David Perloff Simone Perloff MARKETING DIRECTOR Alyson C. Baker (alyson@pacificsandiego.com) PROMOTIONS MANAGER Ariel Gafni (ariel@pacificsandiego.com) CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER Ryan Jones (ryan@pacificsandiego.com) ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michael Christopher (mike@pacificsandiego.com) Brennan MacLean (brennan@pacificsandiego.com) Kevin Sheehan (kevin@pacificsandiego.com) INTERN Tracy Ly
Reach America’s Finest readers via print, web, social media, email, street team and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! 619.296.6300 | PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM Facebook “f ” Logo
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PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • JANUARY 2015
CMYK / .eps
Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .eps
NIGHTLIFE (raise the roof )
The new FIAT 500c
Kearny Mesa FIAT | 5155 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa | 858.492.9200 | Kmfiat.com | Facebook.com/kmfiatsd JANUARY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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San Diego
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¡Gran Inaug
PacificSD presents…
Karina’s Mexican Seafood — Famous on both sides of the border for spicy mariscos (Mexican seafood) and the even mas caliente Karina’s Girls.
GRAND OPENING EVENT: THURS., JANUARY 29 (6-10 P.M.) Live Latin beats by Cantua Vinyl grooves by DJ Misha Tray-passed culinary showcase by Karina’s First two Milagro margaritas or Pacifico cervezas included Attendance strictly limited to 175 guests Attire: dress for a scorching night downtown
Proceeds benefit:
925 B. St., Ste. 101, Downtown • karinasseafood.com
Tickets & Info: pacificsandiego.com/karinas
guraci贸n!
JANUARY 2015
F E A T U R E S
60 Join The Club
Take an on-the-scene tour of San Diego’s boomingest hotspots and glimpse the city’s nightlife future
ON THE COVER: Andrew Jorgensen photographed DJ Wendi Cakes at downtown’s new Parq Restaurant & Nightclub. LED-wall visual graphics by David Bernal. THIS PAGE: Adrien Grenier, star of HBO’s Entourage, takes the Gaslamp’s FLUXX nightclub for a spin. (See story, page 60.)
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PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • JANUARY 2015
JANUARY 2015
D E P A R T M E N T S
AGENDA 36 One.Fifteen January event calendar 42
Seeing Red Kathy Griffin brings her off-color act to Pala Casino
44 Laughing Stock January stand-up roundup
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PULSE 50 Art Beat Museum and gallery openings 52 Curtain Calls Performing arts preview 54 The Reel World January motion picture preview
PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • JANUARY 2015
TASTE 80 Fare Enough More new restaurants and bars than you can shake a shtick at 100 Pulp Nonfiction Here’s one way to get your main squeeze at home 102 Take it From the Tap Finest City beer — scene and heard
GROOVE 108 Sounds Like A Plan January concert calendar 114 Spin Cycle January EDM shows 118 ’Tender Moments Reintroducing a barman who pours his heart out
LOVE 120 All Work and Know Play A blind date for hospitality industry insiders
BREWED WITH SLOW-ROASTED CARAMEL MALTS
[PROMOTION]
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PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • JANUARY 2015
IT’S FINE TO OPPOSE TORTURE.
PERSONALLY, I DON’T. I UNDERSTAND BOTH SIDES OF THE ARGUMENT, BUT HERE’S A NOVEL THOUGHT: RATHER THAN TORTURE BAD GUYS, JUST KILL THEM. PERIOD. PROBLEM SOLVED.
WHY INCREASE A U.S. SOLDIER’S RISK OF DEATH BY MAKING HIM CAPTURE AND DETAIN AN ENEMY WHO’S SHOOTING AT
HIM WITH HIS OTHER TERRORIST BUDDIES IN A FOREIGN LAND? DON’T EVEN GET OUT OF THE TANK, AS FAR AS I’M CONCERNED. PEOPLE WILL SAY, “WE SHOULDN’T BE IN THIS WAR.” WELL, WE ARE IN WAR, AND WITH SOME REALLY, REALLY EVIL PEOPLE. BUSH, OBAMA, WHOMEVER YOU WANT TO BLAME, SAVE IT. WE’RE AT WAR, IT’S UGLY, AND I’D PREFER IF WE COULD BE MORE SUPPORTIVE OF OUR GUYS WINNING IT. Craig Sewing is a television and radio personality and consumer advocate who confronts polarizing issues head-on. Forever focused on cutting through the media clutter, he states his views bluntly, making friends and enemies along the way. Tune-in to Sewing’s intriguing and sometimes controversial broadcasts on The American Dream every Saturday at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4, and on The Craig Sewing Show weekdays at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170-AM to hear his engaging and enlightening conversations with the region’s political, business and finance luminaries. Follow Craig at Facebook.com/CraigSewing or on Twitter @craigsewing.
JANUARY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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[PROMOTION]
FEATURE MARKET:
Downtown 92101
Market Update Live it up at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego! Suite overlooks pool and Woodstock Terrace. Own at the Hard Rock and become Rock Royalty!
Luxury and Value — spacious and functional open versatile loft. This west facing light and bright condo features 805 sq.ft., and 2 parking spaces.
(November 2014 data) Number of homes for sale: 208 Number of homes sold: 50 Highest price $2,200,000 Lowest price $215,000 Median home price $484,500
Market Expert Chad Dannecker is broker and owner of Welcome to San Diego Real Estate. He runs a team that has proven time and time again that they are the go-to professionals for downtown real estate. If you do any research on downtown, you’ll quickly find welcometosandiego. com, Chad and his team’s website, and their five-star client reviews on Yelp, Google and Zillow.
Listen to Chad on The Craig Sewing Show Tuesday, January 27, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch him on The American Dream on Saturday, January 31, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.
CHAD DANNECKER Welcome to San Diego Real Estate - Dannecker & Associates 875 G. St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101, 619.356.3099, welcometosandiego.com, chad@welcometosandiego.com
BRE#01459513
FEATURE MARKET:
Point Loma 92106
Market Update (November 2014 data) Number of homes for sale: 22 Number of homes sold: 40 Highest price $3,500,000 Lowest price $350,000 Median home price $1,795,000 What Is Your Home’s TRUE Value? Home prices are rising and your home might be worth more than you think! FREE Online Evaluation at CheckMySDHomeValue.com
Completely remodeled condo in the exclusive La Playa neighborhood of Point Loma. This cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo is just steps away from the beautiful San Diego Bay.
Market Experts Glen Henderson and Shannon Keatley are the brokers and owners of Alliance Group Real Estate. They go beyond the scope of traditional real estate services by providing turnkey financial solutions through their network of professional partners. They are a valuable resource for buyers and sellers throughout San Diego.
BRE # 01870483
Listen to Glen and Shannon on The Craig Sewing Show Wednesday, January 7, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch them on The American Dream on Saturday, January 10, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.
GLEN HENDERSON & SHANNON KEATLEY Alliance Group Real Estate Services 3131 Camino Del Rio North, Ste. 1420, San Diego, CA 92108, 619.500.3222, AllianceGroupRE.com, info@alliancegroupre.com
[PROMOTION]
FEATURE MARKET:
Bay Park 92110
Market Update (November 2014 data) Number of homes for sale: 20 Number of homes sold: 7 Highest price: 1,995,000 Lowest price: 399,000 Median home price 844,677
437 Lister St. 92110 First time on the market, original owner, 4-bedroom 2-bath move-in ready home with breathtaking Bay and Ocean views.
Market Expert Melissa Tucci is the Official Real Estate Agent of the San Diego Padres. Awarded #5 global ranking for Century 21 worldwide, Tucci is a top producing professional and an experienced San Diego Realtor and Broker providing a superior level of informed, professional real estate services to buyers and sellers in San Diego County. She was also recently named Spotlight Agent in Zillow Nationwide and the Front Cover Winner of Top Agent Magazine’s November issue.
Listen to Melissa on The Craig Sewing Show Thursday, January 8, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch her on The American Dream on Saturday, January 10, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.
MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI Century 21 All Service 1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116, 619.787.6852, MelissaTucci.com, Sold@MelissaTucci.com
BRE # 01380034
FEATURE MARKET:
Carmel Valley 92130
Market Update Gorgeous Plan 3 in Soleil at Bordeaux built by Pardee in 2005. Spacious home featuring upgrades throughout, including a gourmet kitchen, beautiful stone and wood finishes, as well as solar power.
(November 2014 data) Number of homes for sale: 191 Number of homes sold: 42 Highest price: $6,400,000 Lowest price: $267,000 Median home price: $889,000 Sellers on the market right now are experiencing the benefits of less competition and getting great offers from serious buyers this time of the year.
Private backyard with a stamped concrete patio, pergola awning, built-in barbeque area with fridge and sink, and beautiful custom fountain and fire feature.
Market Expert Kurt Wannebo was ranked by the Wall Street Journal / Real Trends as the #1 Team Agent in San Diego for 2013 and 2014 out of more than 20K agents! With 250+ 5-star online reviews, and a 99.5% sales price ratio, not only does Kurt outsell most agents in the county, he does so for some of the highest prices along with the best customer service.
Listen to Kurt on The Craig Sewing Show Tuesday, January 13, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch him on The American Dream on Saturday, January 17, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.
KURT WANNEBO San Diego Real Estate & Investments 3636 Nobel Dr., Ste. 170, San Diego, CA 92122, 858.412.5541, BrokerKurt.com, kurt@sdreai.com
BRE# 01520942
[PROMOTION]
SAN DIEGO’S MORTGAGE PRO Q&A
ANALYSIS
Investment Properties – Are they still available? With San Diego real estate continuing its rise in property valuaes, we wanted to see if purchasing investment properties still pencils out, so we reached out to JJ, our mortgage expert, to answer this question. Are there good investment properties available in the San Diego market? A: Although home prices have gone up, there are still a lot of great opportunities to purchase an investment property that makes sense financially. Q: What are the advantages of owning an investment property? A: Unlike purchasing a home to live in yourself, buying a home to rent out is a great way to diversify your portfolio. With little investment into the home, you can have a renter paying your mortgage down for you. This is creating a possible positive cash flow and driving up the equity position in the home with someone else’s money, and giving you a possible income-tax benefit. You could have the home paid off and have a steady stream of rental income to help your retirement days. You can also sell the home and reap the profits in time. NMLS# 247008
Q: How much down payment do you need and is it hard to qualify? A: The minimum down payment requirement is going to be 20 percent. In many ways it can be easier to qualify for the mortgage as we can use rental income to help offset the payment to help the buyer qualify for the loan. Q: Can you provide examples of properties that would make good investments? A: I pulled two real examples of properties that would be great investments from Billy Colestock of Keller Williams. Colestock is a local San Diego real estate expert and has sold and represented buyers for many investment properties and has helped them create a positive income source.
Jonathan Jerotz, known as “JJ”, is part of the elite team of professionals serving the San Diego real estate community. JJ’s expertise is in mortgages, and he has ranked in the top 1 percent of all mortgage professionals in the country since 2011.
CONTACT JJ FOR YOUR INVESTMENT PROPERTY ANALYSIS NOW AT WWW.ASKJJNOW.COM DRE# 01771188
We looked at a 4-bedroom, 2-bath, 1,800 square-foot home for $325,000. It is a great family home and has been completely renovated. With a 20 percent down payment, the all-in monthly debt was $1,715 and the rent is $2,000 per month, creating a monthly positive cash flow of $285.
Contact Billy for more information on how to obtain a great investment property. BILLY COLESTOCK Keller Williams - Central Coastal Mission Valley, CA 92108 Cell: 619-787-4066 Fax: 619-814-7599 socallifestylerealty.com
The second property is a 3-bedroom, 1.5bath, located in San Diego for $199,000. With a 20 percent down payment and rental income of $1,550 a month, the all-in monthly debt being only $1,074, it created a positive monthly cash flow of $476. These two homes are great examples of how to pick up a winning investment property without spending a lot of money. It is very easy for me to create an analysis to see if a particular home makes sense to purchase.
JONATHAN (JJ) JEROTZ SYNERGY ONE LENDING 990 Highland Drive, Ste. 302, Solana Beach, CA 92075, 760.522.2298, AskJJNow.com, jj@synergyonelending.com
CRAIGSEWING.COM As we enter 2015, it’s time to think about resetting your financial and real estate goals. The New Year is a great time to make a resolution to work on your investments, savings, credit cards and mortgages. Craig Sewing is a consumer advocate and market expert who offers free resources and access to professionals to help you win in any marketplace. Let Craig help turn your resolutions into solutions.
Seth O’Byrne, Realtor at Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Seth is ‘the up-and-comer who’s already there,’ as far as I’m concerned. The guy is dominating the real estate business, and threw one of the most amazing holiday parties I’ve ever seen at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. It’s a clear illustration that Seth knows how to have fun, but also attracts incredibly influential people into his sphere — these are the same successful people that use him to buy or sell their home, and anyone in the market would be crazy to not have a discussion with him. —Craig Sewing
On a recent episode of The American Dream… Seth showed The American Dream viewers how he enhances the homebuying process for his clients with personal aerial tours. He takes his clients on helicopter rides to give them a better idea of the property and the city around it. He can show his clients in 45 minutes what it takes other agents one month to show. The aerial showing allows Seth to give his clients a better understanding of San Diego real estate values and why one part of San Diego is worth what it is. More and more of O’Byrne’s clients are coming from other parts of the country and the world, making it difficult to learn the area in just a couple days, and gain enough information to make what could be a multi-million dollar decision. Greg Garrison, Attorney with Garrison Trial Lawyers Greg has been instrumental to the show these past couple months. With all the nonsense in the media, and the sensationalism around Ferguson, Missouri, Greg brings a legal analysis to the show that silences the noise. Greg is a great guy to know, and an incredible attorney in San Diego. —Craig Sewing On a recent episode of The American Dream… Greg discussed the grand jury and how its process could have led to the decisions in the Ferguson and Eric Garner cases. The public doesn’t know all of the evidence
that was presented in either case, but neither were sufficient to find probable cause, which would have led to an indictment. In the case of Eric Garner, Greg said it was unusual that the grand jurors didn’t find probable cause because there was video evidence of the situation, but he doesn’t think the jurors were in cahoots with the police department. Melissa Tucci, Century 21 Broker and the Official Real Estate Agent for the San Diego Padres Melissa is the exclusive Realtor for the San Diego Padres, which is a statement in itself. It also makes for great content when we interview her on our radio and TV shows. She does more production each month than a majority of agents do in a year. There are many things I can identify that could point to her success, but the most obvious is her work ethic. Like me, she was born and raised in the Midwest. She works hard and has an incredible attitude — which is what attracts many of her clients, especially our baseball team. She is an expert in the metro marketplace.—Craig Sewing
On a recent episode of The American Dream… Melissa discussed how the Padres stadium transformed into a winter wonderland in December — it featured real snow and a candy land theme. Tucci also discussed millennials in real estate. She said they aren’t dragging down the housing market, but may not be buying real estate. Millennials face different challenges than other generations and are starting new trends, she said. They are bogged down by student loan debt and are getting married later, which means they’re relying on one income until later in life compared to other generations. She said that generation may start purchasing in bigger numbers in the next five years or might get a smaller unit before that to get their foot in the door.
Watch The American Dream Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. on Cox and Time Warner Channel 4 and 1004.
Learn how to win in any marketplace,
VISIT CRAIGSEWING.COM FOR FREE RESOURCES
BY CATLIN DORSET
ONE.FIFTEEN EVENT CALENDAR
Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate! VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER, POINT LOMA, DISNEYONICE.COM Mickey and friends perform a musical montage of celebrations including a Valentine’s Day royal ball with the Disney princesses, a Hawaiian luau with Lilo and Stitch, and a very merry un-birthday party with Alice and the Mad Hatter. (CONT. ON PAGE 38)
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F E L D E N TERTAIN ME NT
1/21-25
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NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter post a photo to #westcoastslowride. Visit www.newbelgium.com/rules for complete official rules. Must be 21+ and a legal resident of AZ, CA, ID, NV, OR, or WA. Void where prohibited. Begins 12:00:01 am PT on 12/28/14. Ends 11:59:59 pm PT on 5/31/15. Prize(s) depicted for illustrative purposes only. Actual prize(s) may vary. SLOW RIDE SESSION IPA IS BREWED BY NEW BELGIUM BREWING FORT COLLINS, CO
ŠNEW BELGIUM BREWING COMPANY, For t Collins, CO 80524
AGENDA
{CALENDAR}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 36)
1/1-4 DEREK GARDNER
SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW San Diego Convention Center, Downtown sdautoshow.com See and touch more than 400 2015 model-year vehicles, and check out this year’s featured motorcycle, designed by Paul Teutul, Jr. from Discovery Channel’s American Chopper.
1/2, 9,16
MASTERS OF ILLUSION Harrah’s Resort SoCal, Valley Center harrahssocal.com The popular CW television series hits the road, bringing levitating women, death-defying escapes and Houdini-inspired magic to cities across the globe.
RICH CRUSE
F E L D M O T O R S P O RT S
1/18
1/17 & 31
MONSTER JAM Petco Park, Downtown monsterjam.com Grave Digger, Monster Mutt and other jumbo trucks make pit stops in San Diego’s Petco Park twice this month, giving motorsports fans double the opportunity to visit from East County.
CARLSBAD MARATHON & HALF Westfield Plaza Camino Real carlsbadmarathon.com The first stop of the Half Marathon Triple Crown series (followed by the La Jolla Half Marathon in April and America’s Finest City Half Marathon in August) will treat 10,000 runners to picturesque (CONT. ON PAGE 40) ocean views.
DAZE OF OUR LIVES
Stop and smell the roses during these January holidays 1/4: TRIVIA DAY Didja know catfish have more than 100,000 taste buds? 1/8: ELVIS PRESLEY’S BIRTHDAY The King would have turned 80 this month.
1/10: HOUSEPLANT APPRECIATION DAY Throw out that ficus wilting in the corner and appreciate not having to remember to water it anymore.
1/8: BUBBLE BATH DAY Splish-splash — and don’t forget the rubber ducky.
1/16: NATIONAL NOTHING DAY Just don’t do it!
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1/17: BETTY WHITE’S BIRTHDAY Here’s to being as cool as this old broad at age 92 (or at least making it to 75). 1/17: DITCH NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS DAY As if anyone made it past the 15th.
1/20: PENGUIN AWARENESS DAY Watch Happy Feet and visit the tuxedoed birds at SeaWorld (they really need to boost ticket sales). 1/24: COMPLIMENT DAY You’re gonna look great!
LUCKY BASTARD SALOON Is The Only Place To Watch The ES V I S AS EN TV estic
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OR RESERVE YOUR TICKET ONLINE
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AGENDA
{CALENDAR}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 38)
CLARENCE CJ WINE
1/18
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PARADE Harbor Dr., Downtown alpha-zsl.org San Diego’s Alpha Phi Alpha chapter honors its fallen fraternity brother, MLK, with high school marching bands, floats and drill teams.
1/18-24
SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Restaurants throughout San Diego sandiegorestaurantweek.com Dine-out at a discount as nearly 200 restaurants offer prix fixe three-course lunches and dinners during this semi-annual foodie fest.
1/23-24
BREVIN BLACH
CAFFEINE CRAWL Several coffeehouses throughout San Diego caffeinecrawl.com Take one of seven self-guided driving/tasting tours of San Diego coffeehouses before heading to James Coffee Co. in Little Italy for the after-crawl party and more caffeine.
1/24-25
SAN DIEGO CAT SHOW Del Mar Fairgrounds sandiegocat.org Feline agility competitions, educational seminars and rescue-cat adoptions make this the pawsitively purrfect time to adopt a hairless pussy of your own.
1/24-25
AMERICA’S FINEST FLAG FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT Fiesta Island Park, Mission Bay flagfootballsd.com Join the nearly 1,200 amateur athletes expected to compete in a two-day tournament for the Elite Flag Football Team crown.
SARA N ORR IS
PACIFICSD EVENTS 1/15: JANUARY ISSUE RELEASE PARTY Parq Restaurant & Nightclub, Gaslamp pacificsandiego.com PacificSD’s Nightclub & Bar issue comes to life at the new Parq Restaurant & Nightclub in the Gaslamp, featuring crushing DJ sets and a headlining live performance by Skylar Grey (vocalist on Diddy’s hit track “Coming Home” and co-writer of Eminem’s “Love the Way You Lie” featuring Rihanna, among other megahits). See details, page 16. 1/29: KARINA’S DOWNTOWN — GRAND OPENING EVENT Karina’s Mexican Seafood Cuisine, Downtown pacificsandiego.com PacificSD presents the grand opening of Karina’s Mexican Seafood Cuisine, featuring live Latin beats, Karina’s famous mariscos and the ever-spicy Karina’s Girls. See details, page 20.
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AGENDA
{COMEDY}
SEEING RED
KATHY GRIFFIN BRINGS HER OFF-COLOR ACT TO PALA CASINO BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
resh from ringing in the New Year with CNN’s Anderson Cooper and soon to be filling the shoes of her late friend and mentor Joan Rivers, ribald redhead Kathy Griffin will bring her brazen brand of comedy to Pala Casino on January 10. To get San Diegans fired up for the show, Griffin spoke to PacificSD about her late-night aspirations, sleeping with skanky dudes and being treated like a dog by Britney Spears. PacificSD: Why should PacificSD readers come to your show? Kathy Griffin: I have a crazy act that is imperfect and highly improvisational and will be based on whatever is happening up until I take the stage at 7:30. My act could be some tried-and-true material, but it could also be about something that happened at Pala at 7:10 p.m. that very night. We can talk about whatever the audience wants to talk about. The world is going to be our oyster. I just hope everyone shows up with an open mind. And, for God’s sake, leave the kids at home. This is not Blue Man Group. What do you like best about performing in San Diego? I like very good Mexican food, and I find that what makes Mexican food really good is when it’s prepared by genuine Mexicans. So, the geography is very much in your favor. I like the water, of course, and it’s always nice to pass a wildfire. There’s a nice mix in San Diego of folks who obviously want the Southern California-lifestyle, which means very shallow, and yet they don’t want to be like Los Angeles and be that shallow. So I am happy to bring my shallow, bottom-feeder style of humor to San Diego. Do you have goals that you’re still striving for? Women are so behind in show business that it’s ridiculous, so whenever I can make an accomplishment as a woman, that’s my Number One goal. That’s why it’s important to me to be only the third woman in history to win a Grammy for Best Comedy Album. I would like to sort of follow in the footsteps of my pal Joan Rivers, because she really was a feminist, whether she identified as one or not. She broke down so many barriers for me and all the other girls. What’s your dream gig? Hosting a late-night talk show, but the guys have it all tied up. And it’s shocking to me that no one notices that, not since 1988 with The Joan Rivers Show, has a woman had a nightly, network, late-night talker. That’s the last time it happened. There are women in daytime, and women in cable, and Comedy Central is now going to have Minority Report, and Andy Cohen is obviously a really gay man on 42
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Watch What Happens Live, but the group that’s underrepresented in late-night is women. Just plain ol’ women. The white guys have it all pretty much locked up, and that’s something that I think should change. The opportunity isn’t here now, but I will wait it out, because I will wait you out like nobody. It’s going to be Cher, the cockroaches and me after the apocalypse. What are you working on now? I just, as the kids say, dropped my latest CD, which is called, and I’m very proud of the title, Kathy Griffin: Look at My Buttcrack, and is available wherever you can buy anything. Which celebrities do you find the most fascinating? I’m certainly fascinated by Bruce Jenner, because that is a show where we’re supposed to be fascinated by all those other numbnuts. But, in fact, in my opinion, Bruce has emerged as the most interesting character all of a sudden, and whether or not he is transitioning is very interesting to me. He kind of started as the feckless stepdad and former decathlete who was on the cover of the Wheaties box, and now I don’t know what he’s going to be on the cover of. Harper’s Bazaar, hopefully. So I’m a fan of that situation. And then, of course, I’m always fascinated by whatever Tea Party nut-job is chairing a committee or has any kind of power. I’m always fascinated to hear what the climate-change deniers and whatever politician is saying, ‘Well, I can’t possibly be responsible for knowing about climate change. I’m not a scientist.’ To which I would say, ‘Well, look, I don’t have a penis but I know how to jerk-off a guy.’ Right? I mean, I wouldn’t say that to a high-ranking member of the Armed Services Committee… Also, I recently did a cameo in Britney Spears’ Las Vegas Show — you can see it online — and I’m fascinated by her. I’ve known her since she was sixteen; I don’t know her well, but when I saw her in Vegas, I got to participate in this song she does called “Freak Show.” I just couldn’t stop looking at her. Her eyes were like pinwheels, and I’m not sure how aware she was of where she was, but I was just happy to be in the room with her. And she put a dog collar on me and walked me around like a dog on stage for a minute, and it was just the most fun you can have. People like that
are fascinating because she does the KATHY GRIFFIN January 10 @ Pala Casino songs, and the songs are catchy, and palacasino.com I don’t think she sings them, but it’s kinda fun to watch her dance around. But it was really fun to be up there with her, because she’s functional. And someone like her, we’re just happy if she’s functional. You look incredible in the photos from your recent nude shoot with Tyler Shields. Any secrets for staying in shape? I loved that photo-shoot. As a matter of fact, I think people should be nude as often as possible. My home is a nudist colony. I’m not wearing pants now, and I’m not going to put them on for this interview. There’s a chance I might be nude on stage at Pala, but I’m going to bet against it. I’m trying to get some inhibitions, but I don’t have any. I hear it’s good to have a couple. So, I do workout a lot and I do it because, if I don’t, I will have a mental breakdown sooner than later. But I’m also vain. I would like to have like a teeny bit of bulimia. Not a lot, but like weekend bulimia. I would like to eat more but I can’t because I’m in television. And, I know it’s a serious disorder, but can I just get like a trace of an eating disorder, where no one gets hurt? I haven’t figured out the science yet, but in the meantime I have to just do it the old-fashioned way. I actually do watch what I eat and workout. And I do whatever drug is popular with the kids now. Like, what do the kids do? MMA? Is that a drug or is it a sport? Let’s just say I do that because it sounds like a sport and it keeps me fit. Do you have any New Year’s Resolutions? I’m going to stick with my usual New Year’s Resolution, which is to try and get Anderson Cooper fired once and for all. Every year, I really give it the college try and I try to set him up to say something live on CNN, globally, that will get him fired or banned from all TV. A fatwa on his head would be good. Just anything to just take him down, because he’s a very, very, high and mighty model who does the news, and one of these days I will be the victor. Other than that, I guess my resolution would be to eat more carbs and swear more. You had a long, close relationship with Joan Rivers, and will soon be taking over for her as host of E!’s Fashion Police. Can you share one funny memory of Ms. Rivers that you’ll never forget? There are so many. She always gave me such good advice. We always laughed the whole way, no matter what adversity she was going through. Typically, I would tell her something embarrassing that I had done, like, if I would confess to her that like I slept with some skanky guy or something. I would tell her, ‘Oh, God, I can’t believe I’m still doing this, Joan. I’m too old; I should know better. And I don’t know who I can tell this stuff to except you, but I slept with this really skanky guy last night and I regret it.’ And she would just look up and say, ‘Isn’t it fabulous?’
Count on It
KATHY GRIFFIN, BY THE NUMBERS Spot that Kathy Griffin’s book, Official Book Club Selection: A Memoir According to Kathy Griffin, debuted on the New York Times bestseller list Outstanding Reality Show Emmys Griffin won for My Life on the D-List Number of Griffin’s televised stand-up specials Griffin’s age, in dog years The year Griffin won a Grammy for her comedy album Calm Down Gurrl JANUARY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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AGENDA
{COMEDY}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 43)
LAUGHING STOCK JANUARY STAND-UP ROUNDUP
“A blog’s just a diary or a journal. We used to hide that thing; now we post it. If Anne Frank had been alive today, they’d have caught her immediately. ‘Still hiding in the attic at this address. LOL.’” —Mo Mandel on Comedy Central Presents 1/2-4: Mo Mandel @ Mad House Comedy Club, madhousecomedyclub.com
“My mom had me when she was 15, so I know the younger the mama, the more jacked up your name will be.” —Finesse Mitchell on Comedy Central Presents 1/8-10: Finesse Mitchell @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
“I love my dad. He used to be a professional wrestler in Mexico, so it was cool growing up with him, ’cause when he hit us, he didn’t really hit us.” —Felipe Esparza on Premium Blend 1/2-4: Felipe Esparza @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
“He left the seat up because he loves you. Women don’t even understand that. If the seat is up, that means I didn’t pee on it. That’s the best gift I can give you. If the seat is up, that means it’s safe for you to sit down. If you ever walk in the bathroom and that seat is down, don’t you trust it. You might stick.” —Sinbad in Where You Been? 1/9: Sinbad @ Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com (CONT. ON PAGE 46)
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AGENDA
{COMEDY}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 44)
“It’s tough getting older. You start falling apart, you know? My gums are starting to recede now. You can’t tell tonight, though, ’cause I comb them forward.” —Kevin Nealon on Comedy Central Presents 1/23-25: Kevin Nealon @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
—Jessimae Peluso at the Broadway Comedy Club 1/15-17: Jessimae Peluso @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com
“I saw an ad on the back of a moving bus the other day for laser eye surgery. It said, ‘$999.’ And then, in fine print at the bottom, which is messed up if you have bad eyes, it said, ‘per eye.’ Who is getting correct laser vision surgery one eye at a time? Pirates?”
“I don’t know if you know this about me, but once a year, instead of giving one homeless guy a dollar, I step it up. I buy 50 bucks worth of malt liquor and hide it in the park.”
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R O B E RT H AY M A N
DAN DION
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—Dan Cummins on Live at Gotham 1/23-24: Dan Cummins @ Mad House Comedy Club, madhousecomedyclub.com
DANA PATRICK
“I’ve got separation issues. My parents are broken up and I can’t stand when men leave me. This guy was leaving me the other morning and I was like, ‘Where are you going? Why are you leaving? I’ll make a frittata. Tell me what I did wrong! I can fix this.’ You know what he said? He said, ‘Ma’am, I put your cable in. Do you need a router? I gotta go.’”
—Ben Gleib at the Hollywood Improv 1/29-31: Ben Gleib @ Mad House Comedy Club, madhousecomedyclub.com
PERFORMING ARTS
1/30-31
The Golden Dragon Acrobats Presents: Cirque Zíva
HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL 777 Harrah’s Resort Southern California Way, Valley Center 760.751.3100, harrahsresortsocal.com Strength, dexterity and grace become one with art in this dazzling display of acrobatics, dance and music influenced by Chinese traditions dating back 2,500 years. (CONT. ON PAGE 52)
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SEE MASTERPIECES THAT DEFINE MODERN ART BY VAN GOGH, MATISSE, KAHLO, POLLOCK, ROTHKO, LICHTENSTEIN AND MORE. ON VIEW THROUGH JANUARY 27. SDMArt.org This exhibition was developed by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, New York, and was organized by Albright-Knox Chief Curator Emeritus Douglas Dreishpoon. It is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities. Paul Gauguin, Spirit of the Dead Watching (detail), 1892. Oil on burlap mounted on canvas. Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, NY. A. Conger Goodyear Collection, 1965. Photograph by Tom Loonan.
14-SDMA-832_GaginToWarhol_Pacific_8x4.75_r2.indd 1
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{ARTS}
1/3-2/21: MODERN & CONTEMPORARY MASTER PRINTS Meyer Fine Art 2400 Kettner Blvd., Ste. 104, Little Italy 619.358.9512, meyerfineartinc.com This exhibition represents Warhol, Picasso and other enormous names in art, offering glimpses of rare lithographs, etchings and paper-based works from revered and revolutionary forces.
“Fangs” by Oliver, age 5
1/10: I EAT PEOPLE: CHILDREN’S MONSTER ART 2015 Mission Valley Library 2123 Fenton Pkwy., Mission Valley 858.573.5007, staystrange.com This second annual multimedia presentation by Stay Strange showcases monstrous works by San Diego artists aged 3 to 14.
“Cow Wallpaper” by Andy Warhol
A R T
MUSEUM AND GALLERY OPENINGS
B E A T
BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
1/10-2/14: AMANDA FARBER: HERE Athenaeum Music and Arts Library 1008 Wall St., La Jolla 858.454.5872, ljathenaeum.org Various real and imagined elements of Amanda Farber’s life serve as subjects in this collection, which diffuses the distinction between the second and third dimensions, elevating everyday items to objects of intrigue.
1/5-1/24: DANCING INTO THE NEW YEAR: TANGO PAINTING SERIES BY MINNIE VALERO The Glashaus 1815 Main St., Barrio Logan theglashaus.com After losing four family members in a single week, artist Minnie Valero elected to express her emotions via this set of canvases, which originally debuted in France. “Tango Callejero” by Minnie Valero
Untitled by Victor Roman
1/10-2/7: 4TH ANNUAL ART-A-THON ArtHatch 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido 760.781.5779, arthatch.org Two dozen artists will paint, sculpt and shoot for 24 straight hours starting January 3 at noon, testing their creative stamina as they raise funds for ArtHatch’s free education program for at-risk youth. The created artwork will be on display beginning January 10. “Feet” by Amanda Farber 50
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1/10-2/8: JONNY ALEXANDER: WHAT WE CHOOSE TO BELIEVE Thumbprint Gallery 920 Kline St., La Jolla 858.354.6294, thumbprintgallerysd.com Jonny Alexander’s experience as a printmaker fueled his latest effort, which features multiple versions of nature-themed pieces that appear nearly indistinguishable, forcing viewers to question their own perception.
1/23-4/19: LAUGH-IN: ART, COMEDY, PERFORMANCE Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego 700 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.454.3541, mcasd.org Composed of 50 pieces from 20 artists, this multimedia collection evaluates the role of comedic performances in the realm of contemporary art, embracing elements from stand-up to analyze the contributions of comedians, audiences and freedom of speech.
“Above as it is Below” by Jonny Alexander “We Don’t Look in Your Mouth. Don’t Look in Our Kitchen” by Brianna Rigg
1/24-2/7: BRIANNA RIGG: AFTER THE VICTORY DANCE Helmuth Gallery 1827 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill helmuth-projects.com Recycled reminiscences and second-hand emotions are the focus of artist Brianna Rigg’s new show, which integrates items sourced from thrift shops and home improvement stores to form fragile, fascinating figures.
“Our Claim To What Is” by Julian Kreimer
“I’m Dying Up Here (Strawberry Shortcake)” by Tammy Rae Carland
1/25-3/21: JULIAN KREIMER Lux Art Institute 1550 South El Camino Real, Encinitas 760.436.6611, luxartinstitute.org Artist Julian Kreimer applied layers of blended oil paint to create these enthralling landscapes that exist somewhere between reality and imagination.
“Blue Tumblers”
1/29-2/20: KELLY SCHNORR by Kelly Schnorr Lux Art Institute 1550 South El Camino Real, Encinitas 760.436.6611, luxartinstitute.org Kelly Schnorr’s captivation with suburban America resulted in this set of salvaged ceramics and nostalgia-inducing objects, carefully arranged to evoke images of an expendable existence.
JANUARY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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{ARTS}
BRITTANY APP
1/6-11: DIRTY DANCING San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., Downtown 619.564.3000, broadwaysd.com Have the time of your life while watching the groundbreaking ’80s movie’s on-stage adaptation, which offers an evocative mix of music, romance and dancing.
1/10: PEKING ACROBATS California Center for the Arts 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 760.839.4138, artcenter.org Astonishing acrobats — accompanied by live musicians and special effects — demonstrate supreme mastery of body and mind through breathtaking exhibits of power, agility and balance.
1/23-2/22: TROUBLE IN MIND Moxie Theatre 6663 El Cajon Blvd., College Area 858.598.7620, moxietheatre.com Deemed too dangerous for Broadway, this 1955 comedy about race traces the troubled production of a fictional Broadway play starring a black cast performing under the direction of a racist white man.
C U R T A I N PERFORMING ARTS PREVIEW
1/23-24: LES MISÉRABLES Pechanga Resort & Casino 45000 Pechanga Pkwy., Temecula 951.693.1819, pechanga.com Based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel, this masterful production breathes new life into French history while telling the tale of an ex-convict — jailed for two decades for stealing a loaf of bread for his sister’s starving child — who encounters epic adversity on his road to redemption.
C A L L S
BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
RAYM OND EL ST EAD
1/16-18: DANCES OF LOVE, LAUGHTER AND LOSS UCSD’s Weiss Theatre 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla 619.225.1803, sandiegodancetheater.org Enjoy an evening of toptier choreography in a Jean Isaacs production that combines dance with written and spoken words to tell two separate stories: one about nostalgia and longing, the other about 45-year-old pillowcases and their owners.
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JOAN MARCUS
1/24-3/1: MURDER FOR TWO The Old Globe 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org A pair of piano-playing actors portrays an inspector and 10 suspects in this uproarious murder-mystery-musical about a millionaire who turns up dead at his own birthday party.
1/24-2/1: LA BOHÈME San Diego Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., Downtown 619.533.7000, sdopera.com The first opera ever to grace the stage at the Civic Theatre (in 1965), Puccini’s masterwork tells the story of young Bohemian friends and their romantic relationships in 1840s Paris.
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D E L I V E R Y
1/25: ALBERTA BALLET: FUMBLING TOWARDS ECSTASY California Center for the Arts 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 760.839.4138, artcenter.org Thirty accomplished dancers interpret the personal journey that is womanhood, from joy to grief and love to loss, capturing the stages of life and the obstacles that accompany them.
A V A I L A b L E
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{MOVIES}
THE REEL WORLD JANUARY MOTION PICTURE PREVIEW BY MICHAEL BENNINGER
MORTDECAI “Sophistication has a name.” Action, Comedy Starring: Johnny Depp, Gwyneth Paltrow, Ewan McGregor In Theatres: January 23 A dapper art dealer accepts an assignment to trot the globe in search of a stolen piece of artwork believed to possess a bank account number linked to a trove of Nazi gold. (CONT. ON PAGE 56)
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{MOVIES}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 54)
TAKEN 3 “It ends here.” Thriller, Action Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen In Theatres: January 9 A former covert agent, framed for his ex-wife’s murder and on the run from the Feds, unleashes his deadly skill-set to find the true killer while also protecting his everdistressed daughter.
PREDESTINATION “To save the future, he must protect his past.” Fantasy, Thriller Starring: Ethan Hawke, Sarah Snook, Noah Taylor In Theatres: January 9 With the help of a gifted young apprentice, a distraught time-traveler hunts the massmurdering bomber who ruined his life and is on the brink of launching his most malicious attack yet.
BLACKHAT “We are no longer in control.” Action, Thriller Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Viola Davis, Wei Tang In Theatres: January 16 A cyber terrorist with unprecedented power prompts the Chinese and American governments to recruit an imprisoned hacker for a treacherous, transcontinental trek to save civilization. 56
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SON OF A GUN “Everyone gets what they deserve.” Drama, Action Starring: Ewan McGregor, Brenton Thwaites, Alicia Vickander In Theatres: January 16 A hoodlum serving time up for a low-level offense falls under the protection of an infamous convict, who coerces the young man into executing a deadly prison escape in exchange for a role in a robbery of epic proportions.
ESCOBAR: PARADISE LOST “Welcome to the family.” Thriller, Drama Starring: Benicio del Toro, Josh Hutcherson, Brady Corbet In Theatres: January 16 This adaptation of true events tells the story of an innocent Canadian surfer who falls in love with the niece of legendary drug lord Pablo Escobar, and then finds himself waist-deep in Uncle Pablo’s dirty and deadly business.
SPARE PARTS “It takes a team to build a dream.” Family Starring: Alexa PenaVega, Jamie Lee Curtis, Marisa Tomei In Theatres: January 16 Armed with only $800 and a heap of old car parts, four Hispanic high school students (with the support of their endearing educator) build a robot that competes headto-head with the nation’s best in this movie based on actual (CONT. ON PAGE 58) events.
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{MOVIES}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 56)
STRANGE MAGIC “Everyone deserves to be loved.” Animation, Fantasy Starring: Alan Cumming, Evan Rachel Wood, Maya Rudolph In Theatres: January 23 Fantastical creatures from two very different worlds are puzzled, amused and frightened when they encounter each other for the first time in this magical, music-filled film.
THE BOY NEXT DOOR “A moment she couldn’t resist. An obsession he can’t control.” Thriller Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Kristin Chenoweth, Ryan Guzman In Theatres: January 23 A newly divorced high school teacher falls for the mysterious student who moves in next door, igniting a passionate affair that quickly devolves into the darkest depths of obsession.
BLACK SEA “Brave the deep. Find the gold. Trust no one.” Thriller, Action Starring: Jude Law, Scoot McNairy, Tobias Menzies In Theatres: January 23 An outof-work submarine captain joins a villainous crew on a quest to recover one of Hitler’s sunken ships — believed to possess a staggering amount of gold — before greed grabs hold of the suddenly rich seamen.
PROJECT ALMANAC “Today is better the second time around.” Fantasy, Thriller Starring: Jonny Weston, Sofia BlackD’Elia, Amy Landecker In Theatres: January 30 A group of teens builds a time-travel machine and recklessly romp through their personal pasts, realizing too late that their trivial actions have far-reaching, disastrous consequences that put countless lives in jeopardy.
BLACK OR WHITE Drama Starring: Kevin Costner, Octavia Spencer, Jennifer Ehle In Theatres: January 30 After losing his wife in a fatal car crash, a wealthy, white widower fights for custody of his African-American granddaughter with the girl’s drug-addled blood relatives. 58
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Club
Join the
Take an on-the-scene tour of San Diego’s boomingest hotspots and glimpse the city’s nightlife future By David Perloff
W
hen Hard Rock Hotel San Diego opened in the Gaslamp in 2007, it seemed as if America’s Finest nightlife scene had finally hit the big time. Since then, the venue has rocked hard, hosting some of the biggest names in music (including Prince and other pop/rock royalty) and introducing the city to Vegas-style pool parties by bringing some of the world’s top DJs to its famous Intervention Sundays. In 2010, when Nightclub & Bar magazine named FLUXX the nation’s Best New Nightclub, it seemed like the whole world was watching downtown explode. In the ensuing years, with its everchanging themes and décor, the club has mastered a strategy for staying fresh in the face of a rapidly expanding hospitality marketplace. As Harrah’s Resort Southern California pumped up the volume in 2013, enhancing the county’s day-party offerings with crushing pool parties featuring a swim-up bar and a lazy river attached to a full-service casino, Vegas began to seem even closer to home… and less worth the trip. Now, Vegas actually is coming to the best coast. Mark your calendar for the early-spring opening of Omnia Nightclub (on the former site of the long-running Stingaree), a game-changer from Hakkasan Group, which owns and operates the famed Hakkasan Nightclub in Vegas, among scores of other world-class restaurants, hotels and nightclubs across the globe. In terms of scale, these guys have the likes of Tiësto, Hardwell and Calvin Harris — and several of the planet’s other biggest EDM acts — playing for them weekly in venues that hold up to 7,500 party people. With more exciting nightlife venues per square foot than just about anywhere in the known universe, and some incredible additions coming down the pike, San Diego no longer has to brag about its Vegas-style offerings. Now, people in Las Vegas who’ve caught wind of what’s happening out west must be wondering what San Diego-style clubs they can find in the middle of the desert. Plus, we have the ocean, so we win. The proof ’s on the other side of the velvet rope, which San Diego’s nightlife insiders are opening for you here…
AD Nightclub
In the swing of things at AD Nighclub.
Insider: Bayless Cobb, owner and principal partner PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at AD Nightclub in 2014? BAYLESS COBB: The most amazing thing that happened in 2014 was watching the evolution of live performances at our “AD On Wednesday” events. Seeing the biggest-selling recording artists in the country performing in front of sold-out crowds in such a small and intimate venue literally changed everything. Narrowing
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it down to a couple of the coolest things that happened would be almost impossible. DJ Mustard started it all, but I will never forget the energy of the Jeremih event. Hosting Rae Sremmurd just before they completely blew was legendary. [Watching] as our entire staff fell in love with Mya all over again, seeing 12th Planet perfectly read and then level the room, Tinashe completely packing the venue to capacity, Camron
best moments. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/ enhancements might your venue playing an entire concert, French Montana breaking all records, Bobby Shmurda playing his hit song twice and Fabolous literally making a movie at AD — makes it impossible to pick just two of the
see in 2015? We are constantly upgrading and improving our venue. Some immediate changes you will notice are the expansion of our nightclub bar, along with upgrades to our
theatrical lighting and soundsystem. We are also planning upgrades to our lounge/restaurant to make sure we are ready in time for the New Horton Plaza Park scheduled to open September 2015. What AD Nightclub entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? San Diegans can look forward to AD continuing to push the limits by hosting the biggest-
selling recording artists, DJs, live performers and celebrity hosts in the country on our Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Nights. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? For nightlife, DBA in Hollywood, for sure. I love Kettner Exchange for dinner, Coronado Beach with my friends and spending as much time at home with my fiancée and our beautiful daughter, Italia.
Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? With Parq, Cake, Omnia, Avalon and the New Horton Plaza Park all coming to the Gaslamp, San Diego is officially on the map and will become a destination city for our nightlife, not just our beaches. And with AD located right in the center of everything, I couldn’t be more excited.
AD Nightclub 905 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp 619.255.7366, adnightclub.com
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Joh n Do le
Avalon Hollywood
Avalon San Diego
Avalon San Diego 345 B St., Downtown avalonsandiego.com
Insider: Dave Dean, partner
PacificSD: What makes San Diego the perfect location to launch the next Avalon? DAVE DEAN: Actually, we’ve been producing events in San Diego since 2006, under our traveling brand Giant, the first of which were actually at the location that will become Avalon San Diego, Fourth & B. We’ve made some great friends over the years in San Diego and we’re looking forward to unveiling a thoroughly reimagined and completely reworked venue in 2015.
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do you plan to open? Expansion is not our driving force, as we’re not looking beyond San Diego at this time. Delivering a quality establishment with an
indigenous “local” feel is most important, and Avalon San Diego is specifically designed to appeal to San Diego’s wide variety of nightlife interests and musical tastes.
Avalon Hollywood
How will Avalon impact the San Diego nightlife/ entertainment scene? In addition to our legendary club nights, Avalon will also be the city’s premier concert destination and a multipurpose special events venue. With the largest footprint of any nightclub in Downtown San Diego, and the same production team that produced XS and Light in Las Vegas behind this project, Avalon San Diego will certainly compliment the city’s nightlife and entertainment scene. How many Avalon locations
S ky ler G reene
Why should San Diegans be excited about the arrival of Avalon? Consistently ranked among the top clubs in the country, Avalon Hollywood has been at the forefront of nightlife in Los Angeles for 12 years running. Avalon San Diego will debut at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and B Street in Downtown San Diego, with a
scalable capacity of up to 1,500 guests, and will feature thunderous “Avalon by EAW” sound, and upto-the-minute lighting and visual innovations for a true multi-level mega-club experience.
Bang Bang
Insider: Ben Bianchini, General Manager PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Bang Bang in 2014? BEN BIANCHINI: In December, we had a live Sumo wrestling match in the middle of our dining room floor for Nixon’s holiday party. Two professional, 600-pound champion Japanese Sumo wrestlers went at it for a few rounds and stuck around to take photos after the match. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? We plan on offering customized dinner menus throughout 2015 in order to stay creative as the seasons change, something similar to what we’ve done with our highly anticipated holiday dinner menu.
What Bang Bang entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? With LED as a partner, Bang Bang will continue to bring undiscovered, up-and-coming and relevant DJs on a weekly basis. A few “bangers” coming to Bang Bang in 2015 include Gorgon City, Bakermat, Eats Everything and Robin Schulz.
The restaurant at Bang Bang.
Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? When I’m not at Bang Bang, I like to hang out in friendly, local places like the Lion’s Share in the Marina District or El Camino in Little Italy. Both places have friendly staff, tasty beverages and plates perfect
for sharing with friends. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? Unlike most nightclubs in San Diego, Bang Bang is unique in the sense that it is not only known for its entertainment and design, but also for its award-winning dishes and
sushi. There aren’t many nightclubs in San Diego that will be a packed house for dinner and, on the same night, can be a venue offering some of the best entertainment the city has to offer.
Bang Bang 526 Market St., Gaslamp 619.677.2264, bangbangsd.com F el ic i a G arc ia
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Bassmnt
Insider: John Y. Choi, Marketing and Events Manager
PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Bassmnt in 2014? JOHN CHOI: So many to list, but our five nights of Bassmnt Year One anniversary celebration with Rusko, ATB, Michael Woods, Stafford Brothers and Bloody Beetroots over Memorial Day weekend was definitely one for the books — along with our “Daybreak” brand New Year’s Day party, which was on the first day of the year, with doors opening at 6 a.m. We will be bringing both brands back this year, so stay tuned and get ready for round two. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? Always looking to improve the guest experience at Bassmnt, we try our best to keep price-points reasonable for tickets and drinks while still providing the world-class musical talent we’re known for. We have some of the lowest drink and bottle prices in the S.D. market compared to other venues. Music is also a huge part of our core philosophy, picking the right format and artists that our fans desire, which we do
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Lil John makes the crowd go wild.
by staying in touch and interacting with our fans on social media. Lastly, we’re always improving our production: lighting, sound, lasers, cryo, et cetera, to ensure every night is more than a night out and truly a memorable experience.
third artist, along with our highly anticipated Bassmnt Year Two anniversary celebration weekend coming in May. It’s going to be a really special weekend, and we’re looking forward to sharing it with everyone.
What Bassmnt entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Our huge, 200th-show weekend celebration in January [1/22-1/24], with Bloody Beetroots, Carnage and a soon-to-be announced
Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? We love visiting our Orange County sister venue, Sutra, which is the home of EDM in O.C., along with our restaurant, La Vida. Otherwise, you might catch us out in Vegas with our affiliates, friends and favorite artists at Marquee nightclub. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? We are first and foremost fans of
EDM music and EDM culture, and we’re truly humbled by all the love and support we’ve gotten from the SD nightclub scene, along with all the support we’ve gotten from the artists we’ve had at Bassmnt. We’ve tried our best by giving back with incredible free events, featuring international EDM icons Dash Berlin, Fedde Le Grand and Morgan Page, which was unprecedented and unheard of in this market before we did it. We hope to continue this amazing and positive reciprocity between us, our fans and artists in 2015.
Bassmnt 919 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp 619.231.9200, bassmntsd.com
RA PID E Y E PHO T O
Cake Nightclub Insider: Tanjee Mahdavi, Director of Operations for EDL Management Group PacificSD: What makes San Diego the perfect launch point for you new Cake brand? TANJEE MAHDAVI: Cake was conceptualized for our launch location in Scottsdale, Arizona, with San Diego being the next logical destination for the expansion of our brand. San Diego is a nightlife and entertainment hub for the west coast. Why should San Diegans be excited about the arrival of Cake? Our focus on the level of design and attention to detail far surpasses the experience thus far in San Diego. Unlike other nightclubs that focus on the DJ or one performance for the evening, we focus on every client and the guest experience above all. You can expect to find a level of service that will be unparalleled. How will Cake impact San Diego’s
nightlife/entertainment scene? We are bringing a nightlife experience that caters to women and what they desire. Who are some key performers/ entertainers San Diegans should be excited to see at Cake? The Cake Dolls — take a peek on Instagram @cakedolls. How many Cake locations do you plan to open nationwide? Worldwide? We currently have one other location in Scottsdale, Arizona. We plan on opening Dallas, Miami and Chicago within 24 months. Anything else you’d like to express about the venue, the marketplace or anything else? We are excited to bring this amazing brand to S.D. and hope everyone loves it as much as we do.
Cake Nightclub in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Cake Nightclub 755 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp cakenightclub.com
F6ix
Insider: Chris Martin, General Manager PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at F6ix in 2014? CHRIS MARTIN: OG Maco, Andre Nickaina, Bill Bellamy, Dave Chappelle and Kevin Hart are just a few of the names that stopped by to party with us in 2014. Kirk Hammett from Metallica rented out the venue during Comic-Con for a private party featuring his toy company. Guests included appearances from Metallica band members and a performance by heavy metal band Exodus. Heisman trophy winner Johnny Manziel was a frequent guest while in town during the spring getting ready for the NFL draft. Rapper B.o.B put on a private show for fans during his album-release party. This was an unplugged-like experience where he stood on stage and did every one of his songs from the album. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? We have included water-vapor hookahs that give the customer a different experience without the heavy smoke and smell. We
are also entertaining the idea of various light modifications. We can’t give away all our secrets, but we have a few things up our sleeve. You will just have to come in and see for yourself. What F6ix entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Aside from being San Diego’s premier hip-hop venue, we will have some amazing performers in 2015 and only the best hip-hop DJs around. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? Pop’s Liquor Cabinet, Sidebar, Crab Hut and Fam Bam. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? From the mainstream to the underground, we have all your hip-hop needs covered. Don’t be fooled by imitations.
F6ix 526 F St., Gaslamp 619.238.0138, f6ixsd.com
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FLUXX Nightclub Insider: James Thorp, General Manager
Mackelmore (left) and Ryan Lewis
PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at FLUXX in 2014? JAMES THORP: Installed new lighting and visuals — custom 60panel LED wall and retractable DJ booth design. Won fifth consecutive Lamplighter award for Best Nightclub in San Diego. Continued to lead San Diego in entertainment bookings. In 2014, FLUXX hosted EDM DJs Hardwell — DJ Mag’s Number One-ranked DJ in the world — Disclosure, Chromeo, Moby, Baauer, Deorro, Nervo, DJ Snake, Laidback Luke, TJR, et cetera. For hip-hop, we had 2 Chainz, Snoop Dogg, NAS, Common, Kid Ink, Juicy J, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Ty Dolla $ign, T-Pain, Too Short and more. Celeb sightings in 2014 included Chase Crawford, Brody Jenner, Tyrese Gibson, Tony Romo, Adrian Grenier, Carmen Electra, Reggie Bush and many others. What exciting venue changes/modifications/enhancements might your venues see in 2015? New LED chandelier and additional LED panels installed throughout nightclub. What FLUXX entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? We’ll continue to stay on top of entertainment and nightlife trends by constantly reinventing ourselves and bringing the top DJs and performers to FLUXX. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venues? Anywhere that has some tasty craft beers. Ciro’s Pizzeria and Beerhouse is probably my top hangout. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? Being downtown for the past 15 years, I’ve seen a lot of change. However, I will say that, with other national major hospitality companies coming to San Diego, 2015 is probably going to be one of the most drastic transformations we have seen for some time.
FLUXX Nightclub 500 Fourth Ave., Downtown 619.232.8100, fluxxsd.com
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J eff “T U RB O ” Co rr i gan
J eff “T U RB O ” Co rr igan
Club 207
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Insider: Andy Hersch, owner of Gramercy Management Group and managing partner of Float and 207. Intervention Sundays at Float
PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at 207 and Float in 2014? ANDY HERSCH: In 2014, we welcomed some incredible live performers to 207 that have crossed all genres of music. We have seen the trends in the music world and have been able to provide quality music in the Rock, EDM, Pop and hip-hop
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arenas. After all, we are inside the Hard Rock. We introduced an unrivaled Thanksgiving Eve party, featuring live performances by Far East Movement and Waka Flocka Flame inside Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s famous Legends Ballroom; and during the summer, produced what might be our most celebrated event to date: Intervention with two-time Grammy Award-winning
DJ and producer David Guetta. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venues see in 2015? We are always striving to improve the nightlife experience here at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. Last year marked the beginning of a renewed focus on our rooftop lounge, Float, and over the past few months we
have added several enhancements to the atmosphere, including new lighting. We’ll see more improvements well into 2015, with new furniture and other accents. Float will also launch the muchanticipated Veuve Clicquot happy hour as well as a new music format. What 207/Float entertainment offerings should San Diegans
look forward to in 2015? January marks the official launch of our new music programming in Float. Our goal is to appeal to a more sophisticated audience, as our DJs play an extensive openformat variety of tracks. Expect to hear everything from throwback rock-and-roll to crowd-favorite ’90s hip-hop. We began teasing the new format in December and have seen
an overwhelmingly positive response. We also plan to continue to grow and expand upon our monthly live music series, Third Thursdays; and Intervention partygoers can anticipate an unparalleled 2015 season as we bring only the biggest names in electronic music to San Diego. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venues?
Although I spend a lot of time in other cities, there is nothing better than coming home to dinner in San Diego at Nobu, and drinks with friends at any outdoor location. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? As new venues open up, and the San Diego nightclub scene continues to
expand while the number of people in the market remains the same, the great service and friendly atmosphere is what will continue to set Hard Rock apart from the rest.
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.702.3000, hardrockhotelsd.com
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Harrah’s Resort Southern California Insider: Darrell Pilant, Vice President and Assistant General Manager at Caesars Entertainment Corporation PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Harrah’s in 2014? DARRELL PILANT: The completion of our $160 million, multi-phase renovation and expansion was amazing. Our new 403-room hotel tower is super luxe, and guests always comment on the brand-new look and accommodations in Resort Tower North. Harrah’s has always been about providing a fun and friendly atmosphere. With the recent updates, we have expanded on what a fun vacation can be, something we call a “play-cation.” We’re all about the Palm Vegas experience — why drive to Vegas or Palm Springs when J o h n D o le
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you can have that same experience closer to home, yet feel like you are in a destination resort? Our expansion has made us one of the largest hotels in the county, with 1,065 rooms. We can host large groups, major concerts, shows and festivals with our new 23,000seat event center. And we proudly boast a unique pool experience, offering Southern California’s only swim-up bar, a 400-foot lazy river, the main pool, 21 cabanas, nine hot tubs and three fire pits. Dive Day Club Season 2 at Harrah’s was a huge success this year as well, with world renowned DJs that played every week during the summer. What Harrah’s entertainment
offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Dive Day Club Season 3. Dive features a trifecta of pools: Harrah’s newly renovated main pool, a brand new lazy river and Southern California’s only swim-up bar. In addition to three pools, Dive boasts nine cooling tubs and 30 VIP areas, including 21 cabanas and nine daybeds for guests to enjoy. There will also be varied concert and entertainment offerings in The Event Center, lounge entertainment in Spiked and Corked and various festival offerings throughout the year. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? I enjoy going to craft cocktail bars,
great restaurants, various bars and clubs downtown, local coastal bars in North County and the Oceanside Museum of Art. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? It continues to grow and evolve, and we’re thankful to be a part of it.
Harrah’s Resort Southern California 777 Harrah’s Resort Southern California Way, Valley Center 760.751.3100, harrahsresortsocal.com
jo h n a u dle y j o hn a u dley
Johnny V
Insider: Ed Camarillo, General Manager PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Johnny V in 2014? ED CAMARILLO: The coolest thing to happen to Johnny V was getting some amazing new staff members to bring some new life and energy into the business. We also began to host the Dallas Cowboy fan club and the Michigan Alumni of San Diego groups.
offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? San Diegans can look forward to coming out to the nightclub Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and can expect two dance floors and two DJs giving you the most variety in Pacific Beach. We’re also home to the largest beer pong tournament on the West Coast, with our $10,000 West Coast Challenge in March.
What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? Some new enhancements coming to Johnny V in 2015 will be a new LED, a VIP area for the nightclub and a movie theater set-up for sporting events and movie nights.
Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? When I’m not at my own venue, I like to hang out at Tavern at the Beach, which is a great place and down the street; or Uptown Tavern, with my favorite bartenders, Mulan, Nick and Josh.
What Johnny V entertainment
Anything else you’d like to say
about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? I’m excited to see so many huge projects taking place in the Gaslamp, making San Diego a destination for people living outside our city. I’m going to do my part to make sure that I give people another option to downtown by reminding them all that we have going on at the beach.
Johnny V 945 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.274.4833, johnnyvsd.com
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Calvin Harris performs at Hakkasan Nightclub, Las Vegas A l Po wers o f P owers Imagery R u k es
Hakkasan Nightclub, Las Vegas
Omnia Nightclub Insider: Neil Moffitt, CEO of Hakkasan Group
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nightlife scene, making it an easy transition into the marketplace. Â Why should San Diegans be excited about the arrival of Omnia? The former Stingaree venue is undergoing a complete remodel and will receive a number of upgrades that we are very excited about and look forward to sharing with our guests. With Omnia Nightclub, San Diegans will have a Vegas-style nightlife venue
A l Po wers o f P owers Imagery.
PacificSD: What makes San Diego the perfect launch point for your new Omnia brand? NEIL MOFFITT: During the process of developing Omnia, we knew we wanted to create a brand that we could take to various markets in the U.S. San Diego was our first choice, following the opening of our flagship in Las Vegas, as it is a perfect feeder market that could support what we want to achieve. It is a city that is already home to a successful and bustling
How will Omnia impact the San Diego nightlife/ entertainment scene? We are confident that Omnia will enhance the appeal of the Gaslamp Quarter and complement the existing nightlife offerings in the area, attracting locals, tourists and even opening the doors to
Afrojack performs at Hakkasan Nightclub, Las Vegas
featuring an A-list roster of talent and entertainment in their own backyard.
Rendering of the roof deck at Omnia Nightclub in San Diego
more international guests to the city. Omnia will feature many unique new elements coupled with the level of service and hospitality that Hakkasan Group is known for and will bring a new dimension to nightlife in the city. Who are some key performers/ entertainers San Diegans should be excited to see at Omnia? We are lucky to work with an incredible roster of top-tier talent that are residents for us in Las
Vegas, and it only makes sense for us to bring some of those artists to Omnia San Diego. That being said, the venue is extremely versatile and will showcase a variety of entertainment formats. How many Omnia locations do you plan to open nationwide? Worldwide? Omnia has been designed to withstand trends and translate to many different markets, so expansion is something we look
forward to when the timing is right. However, right now, we are focused on our San Diego and Las Vegas locations. Rumor has it Hakkasan is going to open more properties in San Diego. What can you say about that? In January 2014, Hakkasan Group acquired a controlling stake in Enlightened Hospitality Group, which already operates Searsucker and Herringbone restaurants in
San Diego, Del Mar and La Jolla, so we will continue to work with these brands in the area. With celebrity chef Brian Malarkey, we look forward to opening a new restaurant concept in Little Italy later this year [2015].
Omnia Nightclub 454 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp omnianightclub.com
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J esse Arr oyo
Onyx Room
Insider: Jose Amezcua, General Manager PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Onyx in 2014? JOSE AMEZCUA: Halloween at Onyx is huge. It’s our second biggest day of the year besides New Year’s Eve, and I would almost say it’s more fun because of all the creative costumes and matching personas that come out. Onyx also celebrated four years of the weekly Rumba Friday this year, San Diego’s biggest Latin night. And it wouldn’t be right if we didn’t mention Mardi Gras, one of the wildest parties in the Gaslamp. Onyx definitely gets in the spirit and provides a frontrow seat to the parade and general shenanigans. We take Mardi Gras seriously and make sure to let the good times roll. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? Partygoers will soon be enjoying a 50-foot LED wall, a larger dance floor to shake it on and an enhanced sound system. Plus, our VIP area has undergone a total facelift. Just as important is what hasn’t changed, and that’s our commitment to our guests and their good time. We pride ourselves on being one of the Gaslamp’s nightlife pillars and have 15 years of a loyal following to prove it. What ONYX entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015?
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One thing we are really excited about is our newest party, Onyx Saturdays. Our inspiration for Onyx Saturdays was all about the streets of downtown, the Gaslamp and the energy that surrounds us. We rock out to a solid mix of top hits, hip-hop, party rock, EDM and everything else you can imagine. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? If I’m staying local I want to check out what’s new, especially in the Little Italy area. It’s close enough to downtown but far enough away that it has a different feel and makes me feel like I’m on a mini-vacation. What I really love, though, is heading south to Baja. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? We are really blessed as a city to have so much diversity and such a dynamic nightlife scene. You can party in a Vegas-style club one night and enjoy a low-key neighborhood bar just a few short blocks away another night. I’ve really seen the S.D. scene grow tremendously these past few years, and there’s no sign of it slowing down.
Onyx Room 852 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.235.6699, onyxroom.com
Parq Restaurant & Nightclub Insider: Carlos Becerra, owner PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Parq in 2014? CARLOS BECERRA: First and foremost is that Parq Restaurant & Nightclub opened in 2014. It’s been two years in the making.
Also, to have DJ Steve Aoki perform during our opening weekend. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015?
D avi s In k Ltd D avi s In k Ltd
For Parq Nightclub, I don’t see us changing or modifying much, as we have painstakingly considered every detail of the consumer experience during construction. We may add a few enhancements, though. In Parq Restaurant, chef Errol D. LeBlanc will be changing our menu seasonally, as we are committed to serving the freshest locally sourced food. We will also be starting Sunday brunch and a weekly happy hour. What Parq entertainment
offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? We have an amazing team that has been working to book the best talent and world-class performances in 2015. Right now, we are keeping it under wraps. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? Parq Restaurant & Nightclub was built to incorporate the best of hospitality available in markets like New York City, Ibiza, Miami,
et cetera. When I’m not at Parq or at home relaxing with my wife and children, I like traveling to experience venues in cities like New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, et cetera. I like seeing what is being done elsewhere, then bringing back the extraordinary elements to keep Parq’s offerings new, fresh and exciting for San Diegans. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general?
I’m truly excited to have our customers experience an entire year of programming in Parq Restaurant & Nightclub. We look forward to continuing to raise the bar with amazing food in the restaurant, international acts in the nightclub and exceptional service to boot.
Parq Restaurant & Nightclub 615 Broadway, Downtown 619.727.6789, parqsd.com
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C al i G r i ebel
Rich’s San Diego Insider: Ryan Bedrosian, General Manager PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Rich’s Nightclub in 2014? RYAN BEDROSIAN: We celebrated our 23-year anniversary party, with Dev as our special guest performer. Dev is known for her hit songs “Bass Down Low” and “In The Dark.” We also sponsored the dance stage for CityFest and Nightmare on Normal Street to bring the Rich’s experience to the streets. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? We are getting a new, high-def LED video wall that will be one of the largest in San Diego; should be installed by the end of January. We are also going to be making some upgrades to the bars and facility. What Rich’s Nightclub entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? We are going to continue to bring in exciting DJs and booking some great national acts for special events. We can’t name names,
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because contracts haven’t been finalized yet. Also, a commitment to have the best lighting show in San Diego. We are also going to be throwing more afterhours events in 2015. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? At home — Rich’s wears me out. There are so many great bars and clubs in Hillcrest. Numbers is a fun place to hang out; they just started some new events that have really been fun. Flick’s and Urban Mo’s are always a great time for good drinks and hanging out with friends. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? We are excited to be a part of such a great and diverse nightlife in San Diego. With all of the great offerings, we can put San Diego on the map as a new nightlife destination.
Rich’s San Diego 1051 University Ave., Hillcrest 619.295.2195, richssandiego.com
RoofTop600 at Andaz
Insider: Chris Wingerberg, Director of Sales and Marketing PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at RoofTop600 at Andaz in 2014? CHRIS WINGERBERG: The RoofTop600 launch party in
June to celebrate the new look of the Andaz Rooftop, our amazing summer pool parties and an incredible New Year’s Eve celebration.
What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? We will continue to enhance the rooftop space, including adding new daybeds and updating our cabanas. We’ll also have rotating local craft beer on draft and delicious new food and cocktail menus throughout the year. What RoofTop600 at Andaz
entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Friday and Saturday nights have the most energy, with live DJs and a bottomless mimosa brunch on Saturday; and Sunday is always popular. We’ll have more great summer pool parties lined up as well. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue?
Barleymash — great bar that does everything well. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? There are so many new clubs opening up in San Diego. We’ve taken a more laidback ultra-lounge angle to the nightlife scene, with fantastic music and great energy to pair with our incredible views of downtown.
RoofTop600 at Andaz 600 F St., Downtown 619.814.2055, rooftop600.com
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Sevilla Nightclub Insider: Joe Santos, Director of Operations
What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? New and better sound and some ambience upgrades.
S erg io Go me z
PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Sevilla in 2014? JOE SANTOS: The consistency of being able to be the only nightclub open six or seven nights a week and the artist events we were able to bring through — The Game, Mase, Chief Keef, Too Short, Bun B, La Ley, 3BallMTY and Warren G.
What Sevilla entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Top artist bookings and an unveiling of Hollywood DJs residencies. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue?
La Puerta and Bassmnt. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? San Diego is going next-level in 2015. With the moving in of Las Vegas-operated venues and
every venue being so artist/talentdriven, 2015 looks to be very, very interesting.
Sevilla Nightclub 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.245.1138, sevillanightclub.com
Side Bar
Insider: Pablo Aguilar, Director of Nightlife for RMD Group rap id ey e p h ot o
PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Side Bar in 2014? PABLO AGUILAR: Side Bar has celebrated 10plus years of being in the Gaslamp and continues to provide unique events, industry nights and promotions. One of our favorite promotions of the year was a recordbreaking FIVE/TEN party season, which opens every Sunday, April through October, from 5 to 10 p.m. The party was decked out with a new, custom-made hot tub inside the venue. Another great moment was during our fiveyears-running Industry
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Spin Nightclub
Insider: Tomas Serrano, Music and Marketing Director PacificSD: What are a couple of the coolest things that happened at Spin Nightclub in 2014? TOMAS SERANO: All of our events are amazing, but, as highlights — our Halloween kick-off party with Infected Mushroom, the 12hour parties with the guys at Desert Hearts and a variety of other cool events with Lovelife, Revive619, Wolfpack Entertainment, Shaun Flak Productions and more. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? This past year’s alignments with stellar promotion companies have opened us up to more creative production décor, additional sound installments and other TBA secrets we can’t disclose yet.
night on Wednesdays. We hosted a Kings of Industry event in which we sold over 40 bottles of high-end champagne in one night. What exciting venue changes/ modifications/enhancements might your venue see in 2015? Side Bar will go through a noticeable lighting, sound and vibe enhancement in 2015. But the exceptional Side Bar staff, customer service and family-feel will always continue to be the true draw at Side Bar. What Side Bar entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Side Bar will continue to book local, open format DJs on most nights, with occasional celebrity talent on special nights. San Diegans can also expect to hear a live music element every Friday night that will offer a live trumpet, saxophone or violinist to play alongside a DJ. VIP clients can also
What Spin Nightclub entertainment offerings should San Diegans look forward to in 2015? Plenty of daytime and nighttime events, whether it’s on our newly redone rooftop; The Lodge, which is our side room recently upgraded with local beers on tap; or our main room, with three floors and a booming sound system hosting weekly events that don’t end at your typical downtown closing time of 1:30 a.m., as we continue to push the afterhours scene for San Diego. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? As the music and marketing director, I like to be tapped in to as much music as possible, in town or LA. But on my off time, I am also
a producer/DJ [DJ IDeaL], and you’ll find me either in the studio with my partner JBreak, or with my mate Tristan D — with whom I’ll be back on the radio on CBS’ Energy 103.7 FM as of New Year’s Eve 2015 every Saturday night — or working on one of my other projects I’m involved in. Anything else you’d like to say
about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? It’s growing, evolving and developing at an amazing rate, just like Spin Nightclub once again, and I’m very excited to be a part of it all.
Spin Nightclub 2028 Hancock St., Middletown 619.294.9590,spinnightclub.com
arrange to have their birthday made special with a personal performance at their VIP table. Where do you like to hang out when not at your own venue? I’m a big foodie, so trying San Diego’s new restaurants is where I typically can be found. When I’m looking for a night out, my RMD sister venues are great because they are different from Side Bar, so it’s a great change of pace. I go to FLUXX when I’m looking for that Vegas feel or to see the best new talent, and F6ix on Sundays when I want to hear hiphop alongside my fellow industry friends. Where you will probably find me the most in 2015 will be at Rustic Root, our new restaurant
and rooftop lounge overlooking Fifth Ave, taking over the old Marble Room space. Anything else you’d like to say about the nightclub scene or San Diego nightlife in general? The restaurant, nightlife, hotel and overall hospitality scene in San Diego is growing at a crazy pace,
and it’s great to be a part of it. I love having all these new options as a local, and it’s great to know that people traveling in 2015 have more reason to choose San Diego.
Side Bar Nightclub 536 Market St., Gaslamp 619.696.0946, sidebarsd.com
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Sausage board at S&M Sausage and Meat in University Heights.
Fare Enough MORE NEW RESTAURANTS AND BARS THAN YOU CAN SHAKE A SHTICK AT
BY DAVID NELSON | INTRODUCTION BY DAVID PERLOFF
As the city’s restaurant-and-bar scene reaches a rolling boil, certain San Diego proprietors are trying to carve out new niches — like S&M, the new sausage-and-meat retreat that’s been giving University Heights a culinary cutting edge since November. Other operators are cooking up quirkier ways to woo America’s Finest humans. Case in point: no longer relegated to county fairs, fried Oreos and their artery-clogging cousins the double-donut-triple-burgers have staked a claim to Clairemont in the form of Chicken Charlie’s FryBQ. (CONT. ON PAGE 82)
JO HN DO LE
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ESTABLISHMENTS
TA S T E
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(CONT. FROM PAGE 80)
T
he times, they are a changin’. La Jolla’s Strip Club has morphed into Draft Republic, PB’s Moondoggies is becoming Backyard Kitchen & Tap, and downtown’s Marble Room will soon be reborn as the high-style, roof-free Rustic Root. While many operators are adapting to and localizing booming trends — adding lines of craft beer tap handles where, for example, a so-so sushi joint once stood in Pacific Beach (see Iron Pig Alehouse in the alphabetical list below) — others are wondering what new design elements will ultimately replace today’s craze for reclaimed wood and old fashioned incandescent light bulbs. A visit to the new Kettner Exchange in Little Italy may provide some on that front… or at least on the waterfront. As for which nostalgic trends may become cool again, check out the repurposed 1964 Airstream trailer now serving as a gleaming, industrial portal into the bustling kitchen at the new OB Warehouse. Then take a peek inside the 32 bars and restaurants showcased here, all of which have opened since October or are coming soon. Their arrival is key to the city, providing dozens of new sites to be scene.
(PICTURED ABOVE)
Backyard Kitchen & Tap (opening early 2015) From the group behind the Union Kitchen & Tap locations in Encinitas and the Gaslamp comes Backyard Kitchen & Tap (formerly Moondoggies), which will further up the ante at the beach with cabanas, living walls and fire pits. 832 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach
Bayside Landing (opened in November) Crown Point’s newest hangout (formerly Big Kahuna’s) keeps the good times flowing with sports on big screens; crafty beers and cocktails behind the bar; and sandwiches, pizzas and salads on your table. 3780 Ingraham St., Crown Point 858.270.9200, baysidelanding.com
Bracero: Cocina Mexicana de Raiz (opening early 2015) Famed Tijuana superstar chef Javier Plascencia will present “modern Mexico cuisine” in a two-level eatery with casual and high-end dining and a bar devoted to craft tequilas and mezcals. (CONT. ON PAGE 84) 1450 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy
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MAIN IMAGE: Café Gratitude’s Pad Thai kelp noodles. (MAIN IMAGE)
Café Gratitude (opening early 2015) Fans of 100-percent organic plant-based fare are poised to sing the praises of this Little Italy newcomer, of which Jason Mraz is a partner. 1980 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy cafegratitude.com
breakfast lunch dinner 24 hours a day
$3 16-ounce draft beers $4 well drinks $5 food specials lunch specials, $9.99 mon.–fri. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
daily happy hour (full bar) 4 p.m.—7 p.m.
the restaurant that never sleeps®
E St 6th Ave
5th Ave
N F St
828 sixth avenue Gaslamp Quarter 619.702.8410 brians24.com
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(CONT. FROM PAGE 82)
Coastera (opening early 2015) Where the now sunken Reuben E. Lee restaurant-boat once bobbed at the southern tip of Harbor Island, an immense restaurant/drinkery/event space will soon rise to serve the upscale cuisine of Mexico City’s sophisticated neighborhoods under the supervision of chef Deborah Scott and the Cohn Restaurant Group. This one’s gonna be a big deal. 880 Harbor Island Dr., Harbor Island dinecrg.com
Rendering of Cohn Restaurant Group’s Coastera, opening soon on Harbor Island.
Deep-fried Oreos at Chicken Charlie’s FryBQ in Clairemont.
Crushed (opened in October) Crushed (formerly Ciro’s Pizzeria & Beerhouse) brings tapas to PB, serving them with mimosas, select wines and a brunch menu (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) of creative pancakes and omelets. 967 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.230.6567, barcrushed.com
Chicken Charlie’s FryBQ (opened in October)
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KR IS TOF FER NE WS ON
If it’s “totally fried,” it’s totally on the menu at Claremont’s audacious temple of deep-fat cooking. Specialties like Fried Oreos and the Krispy Kreme Triple Cheeseburger (stacked on donuts instead of a bun) typify eats imagined by the popular California county fair vendor. 5407 Balboa Ave., Ste. 460, Clairemont 858.279.1111, chickencharlies.com
Double Standard Kitchenetta (opened in December) Clever furnishings at Double Standard (formerly The Counter) provide an inviting setting for Chef Christotel Tan’s high-style menu highlighted by slow-roasted lamb neck and, perhaps inevitably, roasted bone marrow-spinach gnocchi. 695 Sixth Ave., East Village 619.269.9676, doublestandardsd.com (CONT. ON PAGE 86)
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Draft Republic’s housemade sausage sampler.
(PICTURED AT RIGHT)
Draft Republic (opened in November) More than three dozen mostly local beers flow at Cohn Restaurant Group’s Draft Republic (formerly La Jolla Strip Club), a new Golden Triangle joint that’s jumpin’ with billiards, pingpong and innovative gastropub fare from chef Mike Camplin. 4282 Esplanade Ct., University City 858.450.1400, cohnrestaurants.com/draftrepublic
Dunedin (opening early 2015) Aided by the on-the-way Dunedin, a sibling of the New Zealand-inspired Raglan Public House (Ocean Beach) and Queenstown Public House (Little Italy), 30th Street in North Park continues to build its rep as a leading restaurant row. This new spot from the team behind Bare Back Grill will have a similar vibe to the group’s other kiwifocused venues plus an expanded menu. 3501 30th St., North Park (CONT. ON PAGE 88)
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Slated for an early-2015 unveiling, PB’s reimagined Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge will sport burnt wood as a theme-supporting design element, heating up the beach scene with rooftop DJ beats and an upscale casual menu of new and old favorites like filet mignon with blue cheese hash. 722 Grand Ave., Pacific Beach 858.274.3100, firehousepb.com DESIGNED BY TECTURE INC AND OO-D-AA
Rendering of the remodeled Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge in PB.
(PICTURED BELOW)
Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge (reopening early January)
TA S T E
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(CONT. FROM PAGE 86)
Garage Kitchen + Bar (opened in December) Two-story joints seem to be a major trend in 2015, including this comfy new affiliate of (and located adjacent to) The Shout! House dueling piano bar, with which Garage will share chef Brent Hersant’s gifted kitchen. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp 619.231.6700, garagekitchenbar.com
Iron Pig Alehouse (opened in October) A few doors west of Ingraham Street in Pacific Beach (at the former site of Haiku sushi), Iron Pig is billed as “a modern BBQ joint,” pairing an extensive craft beer program with succulent, woodsmoked beef, pork and poultry. 1520 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.412.4299, ironpigalehouse.com
A side of slowroasted beans at Iron Pig Alehouse.
Karina’s Mexican Seafood (opening in January) Scores of ceviches and other mariscos (Spanish for “seafoods”) set the stage for the new Karina’s Downtown (formerly Chaplos), where the famous Karina’s Girls are sure to spice-up this new hotspot for top-quality Mexican fare as they have at the existing Karina’s locations in Chula Vista, National City and El Cajon. 925 B St., Downtown 619.546.7667, karinasseafood.com (Attend the exclusive grand opening event on Thursday, January 29; see page 20.) (CONT. ON PAGE 90)
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JENNIFER PETIT
Langosta (lobster) at Karina’s Mexican Seafood.
TA S T E
{DINING OUT}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 88)
A ND REW J OR GE NSEN
Kettner Exchange (opened in October) Named after William Kettner, the influential congressman who steered the Navy to San Diego, this two-story, multidimensional restaurant/bar/lounge and design masterpiece has been drawing huge crowds with “progressive American” fare by chef Brian Redzikowski. 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy 619.255.2001, kettnerexchange.com (CONT. ON PAGE 92)
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A unique dining experience awaits you.
Poseidon on the beach £ÈÇäÊ >ÃÌÊ Û`°ÊÊUÊÊ i Ê >ÀÊnxn®Çxx Î{xÊÊUÊ poseidonrestaurant.com
[Promotion] [PROMOTION]
Lotus Thai Honored by respected media outlets for serving the region’s “Best Thai” cuisine year after year, Lotus Thai welcomes discerning diners with an unpretentious vibe and the market’s freshest ingredients. From the bustling kitchens at Lotus Thai’s popular restaurants in East Village and Hillcrest — the latter of which just underwent a complete and exquisite architectural redesign — emerge chef Ton Sangkapong’s award-winning recipes from Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Northern Thailand. Customer favorites include Crying Tiger Steak, sea bass in white wine and lemongrass chicken, plus a variety of vegetarian dishes, all offered at customized spice levels to match individual tastes. For sophisticated, authentic Thai cuisine paired with extensive wine and beer lists and an invigorating menu of soju cocktails, experience the best of the Far East, right here on the West Coast… only at Lotus Thai. 906 Market St., East Village 619.595.0115 (opened 2004) 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest 619.299.8272 (opened 1999) lotusthaisd.com
Tequila Lime Shrimp Sautéed in a delicious combination of tequila, lime, cilantro and garlic; served over a bed of Mexican rice with black beans and a café salad.
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Le Parfait Paris (opened in December) The Gaslamp’s cute new patisserie/boulangerie dishes admittedly costly but beautiful-to-behold French pastries that soothe souls, as do savory quiches and sandwiches built on house-baked baguettes. 555 G St., Gaslamp 619.245.4457, leparfaitparis.com
(PICTURED AT RIGHT)
Mezè Greek Fusion (opening in January) Hookah up with friends when the Gaslamp’s sprightly Greek fusion phenomenon moves around the corner to considerably larger, stylishly decorated quarters (formerly Gang Kitchen) on Sixth Avenue. Brunch, dinner and parties are all on the menu. 345 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.546.5060 Shrimp and ouzo saganaki from Mezè Greek Fusion.
Nomad Donuts (opened in November) North Park’s new vendor of doughy treats spices traditional American dunkers with “exotic flavors, textures and general snazziness,” offering an evolving, globally inspired menu that features biscotti and coffees, too. 4504 30th St., North Park 619.431.5000, nomaddonuts.com 92
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Macarons from the Gaslamp’s Le Parfait Paris.
Oceana Coastal Kitchen’s executive chef Steven Riemer.
ANDREW JORGENSEN
(PICTURED ABOVE)
OB Warehouse (opened in November) Global Cuisine inspires this vast second-floor eatery in Ocean Beach (formerly Portugalia), sporting over-the-top industrial décor — characterized by “repurposed” elements like the sawed-in-half 1965 Airstream trailer serves as the window into the kitchen — and chef Amiko Gubbins’ Morocco-spiced flatiron steak. 4839 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach 619.222.1700, cohnrestaurants.com/obwarehouse
(PICTURED ABOVE)
Oceana Coastal Kitchen (opening early 2015) At 8,200 square feet, this new Catamaran Resort eatery (formerly Atoll) from the design team behind The Lodge at Torrey Pines massively and handsomely showcases the chef-driven cuisine of Lodge alumnus Steven Riemer. 3999 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach catamaranresort.com
(PICTURED ABOVE)
Pan Bon (opening in January) One of two expansive eateries opening in Little Italy’s Ariel tower, Pan Bon expands upon the bakery brothers Giancarlo and Luciano Anselmi opened in Verona, Italy. Options will range from grab-and-go foods to a cafe and a more formal dining area. 1450 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy 619.373.5780, panbon.us
Pillbox Tavern & Grill (opened in October) Located above a famed beach break in Solana Beach, this “retro-modern” bar/restaurant (formerly Sushi Solana) cooks up inspired Coastal American cuisine like BBQ Baja chicken salad and a mahi sandwich dressed with mango slaw. 117 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach 858.436.7016, pillboxtavern.com
(PICTURED AT RIGHT)
Pop’s Liquor Cabinet (opened in December) Billed as San Diego’s smallest bar (it seats about a six-pack of patrons), Pop’s Liquor Cabinet (formerly Broberto’s) is where you make friends the old-fashioned way — over simple drinks in a no-frills but comfy setting. 540 F St., Gaslamp 619.487.9276, popsbarsd.com (CONT. ON PAGE 94)
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Ritual JuiceBox (opened in December) Casual and holistic, this Uptown District destination offers an entirely plant-based menu focused on raw foods, superfood salads and sprouted wraps. “Deep Detox” with a blend of fermented hibiscus, cold-pressed beet juice and spices. 1080 University Ave., Ste. H-107, Hillcrest 619.452.2513, ritualwellness.com
Rustic Root (opening early 2015) The Gaslamp will boast a second-level, open-ceiling restaurant when Rustic Root (formerly Marble Room) opens adjacent to the new and popular Don Chido on Fifth Avenue. Chef Antonio Friscia, who also helms Chido, will use local ingredients to create traditional yet one-of-a-kind “Rustic American” dishes for the project. 535 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.702.5595, rusticroot.com (CONT. ON PAGE 96) 94
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S & M Sausage and Meat (opened in November) From Scott Slater of Slater’s 50/50 burger, University Heights’ “Sausage & Meat” (formerly Babbo’s Bar & Grill) cruises the wild side with suggestive décor, a porky menu, exotic sausages, a full bar and hard-to-find craft brews. 4130 Park Blvd., University Heights 619.344.2177, sausageandmeat.com
JOHN DOLE
S&M Sausage and Meat’s ribs with jerk sauce and plantain mash.
Grilled octopus at Little Italy’s Sirena Gourmet Latin Seafood Restaurant.
Sirena Gourmet Latin Seafood Restaurant (opened in October) Helping Little Italy’s rockin’ restaurant row continue to sizzle, Sirena (Spanish for “mermaid”) enchants diners with the Chile-inspired cookery of chef Jaime Chavez, whose stylin’ plates breathe Latin flare. 1901 Columbia St., Little Italy 619.564.8970, sirenagourmet.com
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Margherita pizza and a Ballast Point Grapefruit Sculpin at Stella Public House & Halcyon.
Stella Public House & Halcyon (opened in November) This unusual concept pairs a coffeehouse/ cocktail lounge (Halcyon) with a farmto-pizza/craft beer taproom (Stella Public House) under one new roof in the everexpanding East Village. 1429 Island Ave., East Village 619.234.0808, stellapublichouse.com (CONT. ON PAGE 98)
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The Backyard (opening early 2015) In the historic Navy firehouse at Liberty Station, The Patio Restaurant Group is opening a neighborly place (with room for 300) with a “backyard party” theme and a menu of pizzas, and grilled and smoked items by chef John Medall. 2855 Perry Rd., Liberty Station thepatiorestaurants.com
Executive chef John Medall at The Backyard in Liberty Station.
The Rabbit Hole (opened in December) Normal Heights’ new man cave-style bar/eatery (formerly Heights Tavern) serves up Normal Nachos (topped with brisket, pork belly or lobster), ground-rabbit sliders (spiced with habanero chutney), live music and DJs. For some reason, women have been flocking to the place, too. 3377 Adams Ave., Normal Heights 619.255.4653, rabbitholesd.com Smoked duck wings at The Rabbit Hole.
JIM SLOAN
Stake Chophouse & Bar (opened in October) Talented chef Tim Kolanko has moved into Coronado’s newest luxury address, luring big spenders with deluxe shellfish platters and Japanese wagyu New York strips priced by the ounce. 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado 619.522.0077, stakechophouse.com
Stake Chophouse & Bar’s double-cut lamb chops.
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The Local (reopening early 2015) Downtown’s The Local “eatery and drinking hole” will soon be offering locals another reason to drop in — a brand-new on-site brewery to be overseen by Robert Masterson, who will create a line of craft brews to accompany the remodeled venue’s already solid menu. 1065 Fourth Ave., Downtown 619.231.4447, thelocalsandiego.com
TA S T E
{WHAT’S COOKING}
HOW TO GET YOUR MAIN SQUEEZE AT HOME Here’s a bright idea for resetting the body after an indulgent eating season: soak-in the vibrant pink and orange hues of homemade Blood Orange Power Juice. In addition to looking and tasting great together, its ingredients are said to have natural health benefits. Blood Oranges: Rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants and folic acid, blood oranges contain anthocyanin
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RECIPE AND PHOTOS BY BRANDON MATZEK
in their red pigment, a flavonoid believed to help prevent cancer and have anti-inflammatory properties. Carrots: Packed with Vitamins A, K and C, carrots improve vision while helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Beets: These colorful root vegetables can lower blood pressure and boost stamina. They also aid in detoxifying the blood and liver. Ginger: Prized for its ability to
alleviate stomach discomfort, ginger can help boost the immune system and improve blood flow. Turmeric: This antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powerhouse can help prevent cancer, heart disease and depression. Carrots and beets provide sweetness here, but the overall flavor here is more on the bitter side. To amp up the sweetness, add an apple or a pear.
This Blood Orange Power Juice can be made with a juicer or a blender, the latter of which requires a little more preparation. Fresh juices are best consumed immediately (within 24 hours or less) after being made. To simplify the process throughout the workweek, prep and portion juice ingredients in individual gallon zip-top bags, and then store the bags in the refrigerator to keep everything cold.
EASY RECIPE
FOLLOW ME!
BLOOD ORANGE POWER JUICE
INGREDIENTS 3 blood oranges (regular oranges work here, as well) 2 medium-sized carrots (5- to 6-inches long) 2 baby beets (any color works here) 1 1-inch piece of fresh ginger 1 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric* Ice
PROCESS Be prepared. Using a knife, remove and discard the peel and pith surrounding the blood oranges. Trim carrots and beets of any greens, and then scrub off any dirt under cold, running water. Save greens for another use (salad or pesto are good options). Peel ginger and rinse turmeric. Juice It Up. Using a juicer, juice oranges, carrots, beets, ginger and turmeric into a clean glass. Stir to
combine. Add ice to taste. Enjoy immediately. Blender Alternative. Don’t have a juicer? This juice can be made in a blender, but a little more prep is needed. Cut the peeled blood oranges into several pieces and pick out and discard any pits. Add blood orange fruit to a blender. Peel the carrots, beets and turmeric. Slice carrots, beets, ginger and turmeric, and then
add them to the blender. Blend on high speed until smooth. Pour into a large glass and add ice if desired. * Fresh turmeric can be found at Specialty Produce and many Asian markets around town. If fresh turmeric isn’t available, do not use dried turmeric. Simply omit from the recipe. Note: fresh turmeric stains anything it comes in contact with, so be careful when handling.
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{BEER}
Take it from the
NICK NACCA
TAP
FINEST CITY BEER — SCENE AND HEARD
BY BRANDON HERNÁNDEZ
B R A ND O N C U LLY
The past six-pack of years has seen San Diego’s cache of craft breweries rise from a small but sturdy two-dozen-or-so to a patchwork of more than 130 breweries, brewpubs and tasting rooms covering nearly every square mile of the county like a handcrafted artisan beer quilt. Wherever you are, quality brews aren’t far away, but what each spot has to offer varies greatly. The following lists — Best Hoppy Beers, Best Dark Beers, Best New Breweries, Best Beer Garden — highlight spots that excel in specific areas. Take our word for it or use the sidebar list (of every brewery in the county) to do some suds surfing on your own. Cheers!
HOPS TO IT
SAN DIEGO BREWERIES AND TASTING ROOMS
BEST HOPPY BEERS
JE FF “TU RBO ” COR RI GAN
1) Alpine Beer Company: Their IPAs are legendary enough to merit a drive out to this brewery’s namesake East County digs. 2) Rip Current Brewing Company: The only brewery with the guts and gumption to craft the world’s first quadruple IPA. 3) Stone Brewing Company: Innovators of massively hopped beers and a big reason San Diego became well known for them. 4) Port Brewing Company: Pizza Port’s production brewing arm funnels years of brewpub IPA prowess into shiny bottles. 5) Societe Brewing Company: This place is so devoted to fresh IPAs that they’ve vowed never to bottle its vibrant IPA stock. Honorable Mention: Green Flash Brewing Company
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2kids Brewing Company, 8680 Miralani Dr., Ste. 123, Miramar, 858.480.5437, 2kidsbrewing.com 32 North Brewing Company, 8655 Production Ave., Ste. A, Miramar, 619.363.2622, 32northbrew.com Abnormal Brewing Company, 16990 Via Tazon, Ste. 124, Rancho Bernardo, 858.618.2463, abnormalbeer.com Acoustic Ales Brewing Experiment, 2120 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.299.2537, acousticales.com AleSmith Brewing Company, 9368 Cabot Dr., Miramar, 858.549.9888, alesmith.com Alpine Beer Company, 2351 Alpine Blvd., Alpine, 619.445.2337, alpinebrewing.com Amplified Ale Works, 4150 Mission Blvd., Ste. 208, Pacific Beach, 858.270.5222, amplifiedales.com
TA S T E
{BEER}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 102)
THE DARK SIDE BEST DARK BEERS
1) Pizza Port: From brown ales to stouts to barrel-aged imperial stouts, this chain of brewpubs can do no wrong. 2) AleSmith Brewing Company: Their brown ale and coffee-laced imperial stout are unsurpassed beer-style archetypes. 3) Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits: Whether barrel-aged, from a cask or in their base forms, their porters and stouts are tops. 4) Benchmark Brewing Company: A former AleSmith brewer has brought lessons in the dark arts to his new family business. 5) Belching Beaver Brewery: Milk stouts of all types — peanut butter, pumpkin spice, horchata — are as delish as they sound. Honorable Mention: New English Brewing Company
JE FF “T URB O” CO RRI GAN
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Arcana Brewing Company, 5621 Palmer Way, Ste. C, Carlsbad, 909.529.2337, arcanabrewing.com Automatic Brewing Company, 3416 Adams Ave., Normal Heights, 619.255.2491, automaticbrewingco.com Aztec Brewing Company, 2330 La Mirada Dr., Ste. 300, Vista, 760. 598.7720, aztecbrewery.com Back Street Brewery, 15 Main St., Ste. 100, Vista, 760.407.7600, lamppostpizza.com/backstreet Bagby Beer Company, 601 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside, 760.270.9075, bagbybeer.com Ballast Point Home Brew Mart, 5401 Linda Vista Rd., Ste. 406, Linda Vista, 619.295.2337, ballastpoint.com Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits, 9045 Carroll Way, Miramar, 858.790.6901, ballastpoint.com Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits, 10051 Old Grove Rd., Scripps Ranch, 858.695.2739, ballastpoint.com Ballast Point Tasting Room & Kitchen, 2251 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.7213, ballastpoint.com Barrel Harbor Brewing Company, 2575 Pioneer Ave., Ste. 104, Vista, 760.734.3949, barrelharborbrewing.com Beer Brewing Company, 1813½ S. Coast Highway, Oceanside, 760.505.0160, beerbrewco.com The Beer Company, 602 Broadway, Downtown, 619.398.0707, facebook.com/TheBeerCompany Belching Beaver Brewery, 980 Park Center Dr., Ste. A, Vista, 760.599.5832, belchingbeaver.com Belching Beaver Tasting Room, 4223 30th St., North Park, 619.282.1062, belchingbeaver.com Benchmark Brewing Company, 6190 Fairmount Ave., Ste. G, Grantville, 619.795.2911, benchmarkbrewing.com BNS Brewing & Distilling Company, 10960 Wheatlands Ave., Ste. 101, Santee, 619.956.0952, bnsbrewinganddistilling.com Bolt Brewery, 8179 Center St., La Mesa, 619.303.7837, boltbrewery.com Booze Brothers Brewing Company, 2545 Progress St., Ste. D, Vista, 760.295.0217, boozebrothersbrewery.com Border X Brewing Company, 8684 Avenida de la Fuente, Ste. 8, Otay Mesa, 619.787.6176, borderxbrewing.com Border X Tasting Room, 2196 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan, borderxbrewing.com Breakwater Brewing Company, 101 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside, 760.433.6064, breakwaterbrewing.com Butcher’s Brewing Company, 9962 Prospect Ave., Ste. E, Santee, 619.334.2222, butchersbrewing.com ChuckAlek Independent Brewers, 2330 Main St., Ste. C, Ramona, 760.440.5205, chuckalek.com Coronado Brewing Company, 1205 Knoxville St., Bay Park, 619.275.2215, coronadobrewing.com Coronado Brewing Company, 170 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.4452, coronadobrewing.com Coronado Brewing Company Pier-Side, 875 Seacoast Dr., Imperial Beach, 619.424.4900, coronadobrewing.com Council Brewing Company, 7705 Convoy Ct., Kearny Mesa, 858.256.0038, councilbrew.com Culture Brewing Company, 111 S. Cedros Ave., Ste. 200, Solana Beach, 858.345.1144, culturebrewingco.com Culture Brewing Tasting Room, 4845 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.255.3811, culturebrewingco.com Dos Desperados Brewery, 1241 Linda Vista Dr., San Marcos, 760.566.6209, dosdesperadosbrew.com Fall Brewing Company, 4542 30th St., North Park, fallbrewing.com Fallbrook Brewing Company, 136 N. Main Ave., Fallbrook, 858.342.1851, fallbrookbrewing.com Gordon Biersch, 5010 Mission Center Rd., Mission Valley, 619.688.1120, gordonbiersch.com Green Flash Brewing Company, 6550 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa, 858.622.0085, greenflashbrew.com Groundswell Brewing Company, 6304 Riverdale St., Grantville, 619.795.2337, groundswellbrew.com Helm’s Brewing Company, 5640 Kearny Mesa Rd., Ste. C/N, Kearny Mesa, 858.384.2772, helmsbrewingco.com Hillcrest Brewing Company, 1458 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.269.4323, hillcrestbrewingcompany.com Home Brewing Company, 2911 El Cajon Blvd., Ste. 2, North Park, 619.450.6165, thehomebrewersd.com
TIM STAHL L EES A KIN G
A NOVEL APPROACH BEST NEW BREWERIES
1) Bagby Beer Company: This multi-story, indoor/outdoor brewpub has loads of charm — and beers from a bona fide brewing rockstar formerly from Pizza Port. 2) Council Brewing Company: A husband and wife are making sweet music and epic brews from their homey brewhouse. 3) Fall Brewing Company: A Saint Archer and Mission veteran has converted an auto repair shop into an inner-city beer oasis. 4) URBN St. Brewing Company: The coal-fired pizza kings have made successful entry into the beer market thanks to a skilled ex-Stone brewer. 5) Toolbox Brewing Company: Exploration of the glories that spring forth from wild yeast experiments makes this a standout operation. Honorable Mention: Fallbrook Brewing Company (CONT. ON PAGE 106)
Indian Joe Brewing, 2379 La Mirada Dr., Vista, 760.295.3945, indianjoebrewing. com Intergalactic Brewing Company, 9835 Carroll Centre Rd., Ste. 108, Miramar, 858.750.0601, intergalacticbrew.com Iron Fist Brewing Company, 1305 Hot Springs Way, Ste. 101, Vista, 760.216.6500, ironfistbrewing.com Julian Brewing Company, 2307 Main St., Julian, 760.765.3757, baileybbq.com Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 10448 Reserve Dr., 4S Ranch, 858.376.2739, karlstrauss.com Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 5801 Armada Dr., Carlsbad, 760.431.2739, karlstrauss.com Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 1157 Columbia St., Downtown, 619.234.2739, karlstrauss.com Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.2739, karlstrauss.com Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 5985 Santa Fe St., Pacific Beach, 858.273.2739, karlstrauss.com Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 9675 Scranton Rd., Sorrento Mesa, 858.587.2739, karlstrauss.com KnB Wine Cellars, 6380 Del Cerro Blvd., Del Cerro, 619.286.0321, knbwinecellars.com Kuracali Sake & Beer Brewery, 175 Bosstick Blvd., Suite 104, San Marcos, 858.775.6502, kuracali.com La Jolla Brewing Company, 7536 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.246.6759, lajollabeer.com Latitude 33 Brewing Company, 1430 Vantage Court, Ste. 104, Vista, 760.598.2337, lat33brew.com Legacy Brewing Company, 363 Airport Rd., Oceanside, 760.705.3221, legacybrewingco.com Legacy Brewing Tap & Kitchen, 7060 Miramar Rd., Miramar, 760.705.3221, legacybrewingco.com Lightning Brewery, 13200 Kirkham Way, Ste. 105, Poway, 858.513.8071, lightningbrewery.com Mike Hess Brewing Company, 3812 Grim Ave., North Park, 619.255.7136, mikehessbrewing.com Mike Hess Brewing Company, 7955 Silverton Ave., Ste. 1201, Miramar, 619.795.4377, mikehessbrewing.com Mission Brewery, 1441 L St., East Village, 619.544.0555, missionbrewery.com Modern Times Beer, 3725 Greenwood St., Point Loma, 619.546.9694, moderntimesbeer.com Modern Times Flavordome, 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619.269.5222, moderntimesbeer.com Monkey Paw Pub & Brewery, 805 16th St., East Village, 619.358.9901, monkeypawbrewing.com Mother Earth Brew Co., 2055 Thibodo Rd., Ste. H, Vista, 760.599.4225, motherearthbrewco.com Mother Earth Tap House, 206 Main St., Vista, 760.726.2273, motherearthbrewco.com New English Brewing Company, 11545 Sorrento Valley Rd., Ste. 305, Sorrento Valley, 619.857.8023, newenglishbrewing.com Nickel Beer Company, 1485 Hollow Glen Rd., Julian, 760.765.2337, nickelbeerco.com Oceanside Ale Works, 1800 Ord Way, Oceanside, 760.721.4253, oceansidealeworks.net Offbeat Brewing Company, 1223 Pacific Oaks Place, Ste. 101, Escondido, 760.294.4045, offbeatbrewing.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 10155 Rancho Carmel Dr., Carmel Mountain, 858.592.7883, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 12840 Carmel Country Rd., Del Mar, 858.481.7883, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 2130 Birch Rd., Ste. 104, Chula Vista, 619.746.6900, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 305 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, 760.944.8170, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 2562 Laning Rd., Liberty Station, 619.876.5000, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 2245 Fenton Pkwy., Ste. 101, Mission Valley, 619.640.1072, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 9828 Mission Gorge Rd., Ste. A, Santee, 619.449.6441, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Company, 425 S. Melrose Dr., Vista, 760.295.3500, oggis.com Oggi’s Pizza Express, 5500 Campanile Dr., Room 150, College Area, oggis.com JANUARY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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TA S T E
{BEER}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 105) SARA NORRIS
KINDER GARDEN BEST BEER GARDENS
1) Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, Escondido & Liberty Station: These sister properties set the al fresco standard with expansive gardens pretty enough to win landscape architecture awards. 2) Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Sorrento Mesa: Take a seat on the north side porch and spend a day sipping suds against a lush Japanese garden backdrop complete with pagodas and a koi pond. 3) BNS Brewing & Distilling Company, Santee: Plenty of space filled with shaded picnic tables and cooling misters make this hotspot not just bearable, but enjoyable. 4) Amplified Ale Works, Pacific Beach: Cozy up with a kebob at a communal table looking out at the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. 5) Nickel Beer Company, Julian: Skip the apple pie and have an apple pie ale in the great outdoors of San Diego’s official getaway-ville. Honorable Mention: Bolt Brewery, La Mesa
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens’ beer garden in Escondido.
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Oggi’s Pizza Express, 825 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, oggis.com On-The-Tracks Brewery, 5674 El Camino Real, Ste. G, Carlsbad, 760.550.9688, ottbrew.com O’Sullivan Brothers Brewing Company, 9879 Hibert St., Ste. F, Scripps Ranch, 858.577.0350, osullivan-brothers.com Pacific Beach AleHouse, 721 Grand Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.581.2337, pbalehouse.com Pacific Brewing Company, 8680 Miralani Dr., Miramar, 303.819.7086, pacificbrewingco.com Pizza Port Brewing Company, 2730 Gateway Rd., Carlsbad, 760.707.1655, pizzaport.com Pizza Port Brewing Company, 571 Carlsbad Village Dr., Carlsbad, 760.720.7007, pizzaport.com Pizza Port Brewing Company, 1956 Bacon St., Ocean Beach, 619.224.4700, pizzaport.com Pizza Port Brewing Company, 135 N. Highway 101, Solana Beach, 858.481.7332, pizzaport.com Plan 9 Alehouse, 155 E. Grand Ave., Escondido, 760.489.8817, plan9alehouse.com Poor House Brewing Company & Supply, 4494 30th St., Ste. B, North Park, 619.592.9555, poorhousebrew.com Port Brewing Company/The Lost Abbey/The Hop Concept, 155 Mata Way, Ste. 104, San Marcos, 800.918.6816, portbrewing.com / lostabbey.com Prohibition Brewing Company, 2004 E. Vista Way, Vista, 760.295.3525, prohibitionbrewingcompany.com Quantum Brewing, 5375 Kearny Villa Rd., Ste. 116, Kearny Mesa, quantumbrewingsd.com Rip Current Brewing Company, 1325 Grand Ave., Ste. 100, San Marcos, 760.481.3141, ripcurrentbrewing.com Rip Current Tasting Room, 4101 30th St., North Park, ripcurrentbrewing.com Rock Bottom Brewery, 8980 Villa La Jolla Dr., La Jolla, 858.450.9277, rockbottom.com Rough Draft Brewing Company, 8830 Rehco Rd., Ste. D, Miramar, 858.453.7238, roughdraftbrew.com Saint Archer Brewery, 9550 Distributor Ave., Miramar, 858.225.2337, saintarcherbrewery.com San Diego Brewing Company, 10450 Friars Rd., Ste. L, Grantville, 619.284.2739, sandiegobrewing.com San Marcos Brewery & Grill, 1080 W. San Marcos Blvd., San Marcos, 760.471.0050, sanmarcosbrewery.com Societe Brewing Company, 8262 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Kearny Mesa, 858.598.5409, societebrewing.com Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Escondido, 1999 Citracado Pkwy., Escondido, 760.294.7899, stonebrewing.com Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station, 2816 Historic Decatur Rd., Ste. 116, Liberty Station, 619.269.2100, stonelibertystation.com Stone Brewing Tap Room, 795 J St., East Village, 619.727.4452, stonebrewing.com Stumblefoot Brewing Company, 1784 La Costa Meadows Dr., Ste. 103, San Marcos, 760.208.1012, stumblefoot.com Thorn Street Brewery, 3176 Thorn St., North Park, 619.501.2739, thornstreetbrew.com Toolbox Brewing Company, 1495 Poinsettia Ave., Ste. 148, Vista, 760.598.1477, toolboxbrewing.com Twisted Manzanita Ales & Spirits, 10151 Prospect Ave., Santee, 619.334.1757, twistedmanzanitaales.com Twisted Manzanita Ales Tasting Room, 4652 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4013, twistedmanzanitaales.com URBN St. Brewing Company, 110 N. Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, 619.328.6922, urbnstbrewing.com Valley Center Brewery, 28960 Lilac Rd., Ste. C, Valley Center, 760.913.0102, valleycenterbrewery.com White Labs, 9495 Candida St., Miramar, 858.693.3441, whitelabs.com
Brandon Hernández is a native San Diegan with a fervent passion for craft beer and the talented individuals who produce it. He is a Senior Communications Specialist for Stone Brewing Co., an editor for Zagat, has served as a consultant to Food Network and contributes to national and San Diego-based magazines including The Beer Connoisseur, Imbibe, Wine Enthusiast, San Diego Reader and more. The first publication for which he ever wrote about beer was PacificSD. Follow him on Twitter: @sdbeernews and @offdutyfoodie.
SOUND DECISIONS
(A TOUCH OF GREY)
Skylar Grey
(CONT. ON PAGE 110)
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D AVI D R OEM ER
@ PARQ RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB, PARQSD.COM This pop/rock singer-songwriter penned Eminem’s smash hit, “Love the Way You Lie” (featuring Rihanna) and recently collaborated with Nicki Minaj on the single “Bed of Lies.” She’s also the female vocalist on Dr. Dre’s “I Need a Doctor” and Diddy’s “Coming Home,” among other mega-tracks that got and still get mad radioplay. See Grey perform her hits and possibly some neverbefore-heard new material when she appears live at Parq for PacificSD’s Nightclub & Bar Issue Release Party. (See event details, page 16.)
Live Music. Craft Cocktails. Great Food. tinroofsandiego.com 401 G Street, Gaslamp
ODE TO NASHVILLE
Tennessee Whiskey, Peach Liqueur, Fresh Lemon, Sliced Peaches
@tinroofsandiego
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/tinroofsandiego
NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S GRAPEFRUIT
Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Bitters, Pink Grapefruit, House Made Simple Syrup, Grapefruit Zest
GROOVE
{SOUND DECISIONS}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 108)
Sounds Like A Plan
JANUARY CONCERT CALENDAR BY CATLIN DORSET
1/1: ANUHEA @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Self-taught guitarist and folk rock singer-songwriter from Hawaii.
1/3: CATTLE DECAPITATION @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Hailing from America’s Finest, these death metalers are expected to drop a new album in 2015. 1/4 & 6: TROMBONE SHORTY AND ORLEANS AVENUE @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com On July 4, Troy Andrews (aka Trombone Shorty) and his hiphop/funk/jazz band will play at the Foo Fighters’ 20th Anniversary Blowout show in Washington, DC. 1/8: TOO $HORT @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com Jay Z, Lady Gaga, Jermaine Dupri and many other artists have collaborated with this rapper from Oakland.
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1/14: PINBACK @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com TV shows The O.C. and Yo Gabba Gabba! have featured songs by these local indie rockers. 1/15: DEAD KENNEDYS @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Hardcore punk band out of San Fran. 1/15: SAVING ABEL @ Brick by Brick, ticketfly.com These Southern rockers released their newest album, Blood Stained Revolution, in November. 1/16: LITA FORD @ Ramona Mainstage, ramonamainstage.com When she was 16 years old, rocker Lita Ford became the lead guitarist of all-girl band The Runaways. 1/16: ANTHONY GREEN @ House of Blues, hob.com This solo indie rock artist is also the lead singer of rock bands Saosin and Circa Survive.
1/16: SARAH GERONIMO @ Pechanga Resort & Casino, pechanga.com Mid-twenties Filipino singer/ actress who currently serves as a coach on The Voice of the Philippines. 1/17: POWERMAN5000 @ Brick by Brick, ticketfly.com Industrial metalers on the road with Hed PE and Knee High Fox. 1/17: HERMAN’S HERMITS @ Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com British rock and roll band most known for its 1964 cover of Earl-Jean‘s “I’m into Something Good.”
THE PRESSURE
1/2: SECRETS @ SOMA, somasandiego.com This San Diego-native posthardcore band released a deluxe edition of its sophomore album, Fragile Figures, in May.
1/9: THIS WILD LIFE @ House of Blues, hob.com In March, this pop/punk duo will open for New Found Glory during the month-long Sleep When I Die U.S. tour.
1.8 AESOP ROCK
@ THE IRENIC, THEIRENIC.COM Hip-hoppers Aesop Rock and Rob Sonic are touring to promote their recent album, Bestiary.
1/18: G. LOVE AND SPECIAL SAUCE @ House of Blues, hob.com From 1999 to 2001, this alt. hiphop trio was the house band for Comedy Central’s Turn Ben Stein On. 1/18: ERIC CHURCH @ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com Country cowboy known for his many chart-topping hits, including “Two Pink Lines,” “Smoke A Little Smoke” and “Homeboy.” (CONT. ON PAGE 112)
1.9 KATCHAFIRE @ BELLY UP TAVERN, BELLYUP.COM These reggae-rockin’ Kiwis released their new single, “Down With You,” in October.
GROOVE
{SOUND DECISIONS}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 110)
1/19: RANDY ROGERS BAND @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com These Texan country boys released their third live album, Homemade Tamales — Live at Floores, on April 15. 1/21: GUSTER @ House of Blues, hob.com In 2005, a commercial for The Weather Channel featured this rock band’s song “Window.” 1/21: NATURAL VIBRATIONS @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com This Hawaiian reggae band is also known by its fan-given nickname, Natty Vibes. 1/21: JOE LYNN TURNER @ Ramona Mainstage, ramonamainstage.com This rocker was the frontman for Fandango, he and the band toured with the likes of The Beach Boys and Billy Joel. 1/21: MADBALL @ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Hardcore punk band on the road to promote its latest album, Hardcore Lives, which dropped in June.
1/23: ROBBEN FORD @ Ramona Mainstage, ramonamainstage.com This blues/jazz guitarist has worked with the likes of Miles Davis, Bob Dylan and Brad Paisley. 1/23: RAS KAS @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com Talib Kweli, Kendrick Lamar, Ice-T and others collaborated with this rapper on his 2013 Barmageddon album. 1/24: STEAM POWERED GIRAFFE @ The North Park Theatre, thenorthparktheatre.com The punk rockers return to their native land (San Diego) for a seven-year anniversary show. 1/25: RUSSIAN CIRCLES @ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com In June, these metal rockers will perform at Hellfest 2015, in France, with fellow metalers Slipknot, Cannibal Corpse, Arch Enemy and more.
1/25: LOS LOBOS @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Grammy Award-winning Latin rock group most recognized by its 1987 cover of Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba.”
1/31: SILVERSTEIN @ House of Blues, hob.com Post-hardcore fivesome with plans to release a new album, I Am Alive In Everything I Touch, sometime this spring.
1/28-29: THE DEVIL MAKES THREE @ House of Blues, hob.com In April, this bluegrass trio will play opening day of Stagecoach, right before Merle Haggard, Jake Owen and Tim McGraw perform.
1/31: PATTI SMITH @ San Diego Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org Rock and Roll Hall of Famer most known for her 1978 hit, “Because the Night.”
1/30: PAUL WALL @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com This rapper-DJ-jeweler slings his own line of grills (at grillsbypaulwall.com) and made a custom red, white and blue diamond-encrusted set for Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte. 1/30: BROOKE FRASER @ The Irenic, theirenic.com Alt. pop singer-songwriter on a worldwide tour in support of her latest album, Brutal Romantic, which dropped in November.
1/31: WALE @ The North Park Theatre, thenorthparktheatre.com Rapper Olubowale Victor Akintimehin goes by the easier-topronounce (and spell) stage name Wale.
1/23: PIERCE THE VEIL
@ SDSU’S VIEJAS ARENA, AS.SDSU.EDU These hardcore rockers covered Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are” for the 2011 Punk Goes Pop 4 compilation album.
A D A M E LMA KIA S
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NO OTHER SAN DIEGO RADIO STATION GIVES YOU THE EXPERIENCES LIKE WE DO!
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GROOVE
{SPIN CYCLE}
Take a SPIN
UPCOMING EDM PERFORMANCES BY CATLIN DORSET
1/9: VICE
@ BASSMNT, BASSMNTSD.COM This L.A.-native electro DJ has remixed tracks for Linkin Park, Rihanna and Capital Cities. (CONT. ON PAGE 116) ERI K V OAK E
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GROOVE
{SPIN CYCLE}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 114)
1/10: DVBBS @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com The van den Hoef brothers comprise this EDM duo from Canada — spelled like it sounds. 1/10: GORGON CITY @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Jennifer Hudson collaborated with these house producers on the recent track, “Go All Night.” 1/15: KENNEDY JONES @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Skrillex, Borgore and Diplo are just a few of the high-profile DJs who have supported this trap music remixer.
1/8: ALL GOLD
@ BASSMNT, BASSMNTSD.COM San Diego-based dance music duo All Gold is also playing 1/9 at AD Nightclub and 1/17 at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego.
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1/17: MOGUAI @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com German techno beat artist signed to deadmau5’s label, Mau5trap. 1/21: ROBIN SCHULZ @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com This deep house producer released his debut studio album, Prayer, in September. 1/22: THE BLOODY BEETROOTS @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Italian electro duo known for wearing black masks while performing.
1/23: CARNAGE @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Diamante Blackmon, aka trap DJ Carnage, gets free Chipotle burritos for life for inadvertently helping the company by creating the wildly popular hashtag #ChipotleGang. 1/29: PARIS BLOHM @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com In May, this progressive house producer collaborated with Tritonal on the single “Colors,” featuring Sterling Fox.
1/29: ZOMBOY @ FLUXX, FLUXXSD.COM British EDMer Joshua Mellody, aka Zomboy, is expected to release his Resurrected album in 2015.
[PROMOTION]
(night)Life in the Fast Lane Getting an insider’s access to the night of your life with Club Crawl San Diego By Mark Miller As more bigger and badder nightclubs arrive on the Finest City scene (with still more to come; see “In the Club,” page 60), the best thing about being with the “in” crowd is actually getting in — to the hottest clubs in town. Unless you’re friends with the door guy, setting foot in a club like FLUXX or Hard Rock Hotel San Diego means waiting in line and paying a cover charge. And if you want to check out a second venue, you’ll have wait and spend again. Seeking to improve upon that nightlife dynamic, one San Diego firm is empowering party people to step up their game without breaking the bank or waiting the night away. “We started the Club Crawls to give people a fun, hassle-free night where they get to meet new people and check out a variety of top venues,” says Jason Kuska, owner of Club Crawl San Diego. “We average 50 to 100 guests each Club Crawl, including locals and tourists to singles and birthday and bachelorette parties.” Each Friday and Saturday night, Club Crawl hosts organize the groups at the evening’s first stop, often Analog in the Gaslamp, where nightlifers checkin, receive drink specials and mingle with the other partygoers before being escorted to their next destination in the Club Crawl lineup. Next, for example, the group travels en masse (and on foot) to the top nightclubs in SD, including Bassmnt, FLUXX, Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, Side Bar and Andaz. “We try to put together a good variety of venues and music styles each night and we change up our Club Crawl lineups often,” says Kuska. “We keep the experience as fluid as the scene itself, stopping by brand-new venues and established favorites.” In addition to all the perks, Club Crawl San Diego’s ticket price may be its biggest selling point. For $25, customers get VIP access to four venues, rolling in with a big crowd that’s likely to be filled with new friends by the end of the night. As for what to wear? “Dress to impress,” says Kuska. “People will be you watching you skip the lines and wonder, ‘Who is that?’” Tonight, it’s you. Find tickets and more info at clubcrawlsandiego.com
JANUARY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM
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GROOVE
{BARTENDER}
Errol Asuncion’s juggling act now calls for baby bottles, which are not on the bottle-service menu during Wednesday Industry Nights at Side Bar.
’Tender Moments REINTRODUCING A BARMAN WHO POURS HIS HEART OUT BY IDA ROSENBERG PHOTO BY KRISTINA YAMAMOTO
I
n addition to his weekly bartending shifts at Bootlegger (East Village) and AD Nightclub (Gaslamp), Errol Asuncion still calls — and pours — the shots at Side Bar’s famous Industry Night on Wednesdays. When he was named PacificSD’s Bartender of the Month in July 2010, Asuncion had recently helped launch the popular weekly gathering for the hospitality industry. Bartenders, servers, bottle service hosts, VIP managers, door guys, go-go girls and venue owners have regarded Side Bar as their Wednesday night home away from home ever since. “On a weekly basis, I get to work with an amazing team and come up with new ways to entertain, celebrate and recognize the men and women who work their butts off to take care of their fellow humans,” Asuncion says. “Whether serving your drinks, cooking your meals, cleaning your tables or even handing you a paper towel in the bathroom, these incredible individuals are sewn into the fabric of our daily lives. Seeing their faces when we get to take care of them has been such a reward for me.” A cofounder of the San Diego-based fashionslash-lifestyle brand Fortune 421 (fortune421. com), Asuncion now has his hands in a couple new projects: navigating first-time fatherhood and helping to launch Industry (jointheindustry.com), a new social/mobile/digital employment interchange for hospitality industry owners and employees. “It’s been a juggling act,” he says. With the goal of eliminating the need for paper resumes and “Help Wanted” signs while giving the hospitality industry a more efficient forum than Craigslist, Industry seeks to bring job providers and job seekers together into one virtual marketplace. “Over the last few years, I’ve realized that the current hiring process is terribly inefficient,” Asuncion says. “I get at least ten calls, texts or emails each day from people looking for a job and from businesses looking for qualified talent.” Bullish on the fledgling company’s future, he
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PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM • JANUARY 2015
Asuncion, as PacificSD’s July 2010 Bartender of the Month (photo by Jeff “Turbo” Corrigan).
says Industry can become the LinkedIn for the hospitality world. With the arrival of his newborn daughter, Lilyan Jade, he’s never been more focused on realizing his professional aspirations. “Fatherhood is the most motivating thing that has ever happened to me,” he says. “Knowing that everything I do from this point forward affects this little nugget gives me no choice but to succeed.” Who’s your daddy? In Lilyan Jade’s case, it’s a kind, service-minded guy with a big heart who’s got his fingers on the pulse of San Diego’s hospitality industry. Meet Errol Asuncion Wednesdays at Side Bar, Fridays and Sundays at Bootlegger, and Saturdays at AD Nightclub.
MAKING THE ROUNDS ERROL ASUNCION CALLS OUT HIS FAVE NIGHTLIFE SPOTS OF THE MOMENT “I love AD. Why? Because this place is straight sexy!” “Parq is another new spot I like. For a place that size, they did an amazing job.” “I’m a huge fan of Kettner Exchange. They have a gorgeous rooftop deck, and the food and service are incredible.”
LOVE
{BLIND DATE}
ALL WORK AND KNOW PLAY A BLIND DATE FOR HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY INSIDERS
BY DAVID PERLOFF / PHOTOS BY BREVIN BLACH
A
bartender and a VIP bottle service host-slash-website editor walk into a bar… Actually, it’s a restaurant — Table No. 10, a foodforward fare ground in East Village owned by Cooper McLaughlin, the same friendly guy who launched the site’s previous incarnation, The Corner. Before that, the space was his loft apartment. Now it’s got a talented chef and snazzy cocktails... talk about man cave. Jessica and Mark met for their blind date less than an hour ago in the Epic Limo that’s about to drop them off at the restaurant. Before they arrive, let’s review their predate interviews.
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PacificSD: Where are you from and where do you live now? JESSICA: I’m from Syracuse, New York. If you have the chance to go, don’t. I currently live in Pacific Beach with aspirations to join the adult world Downtown in March. MARK: I grew up in San Diego, spent some time away, went to The University of Arizona. Always knew I’d end up back here. Right know, I live in a little hidden gem of a neighborhood called Bay Park. What do you do for a living? JESSICA: I am currently the senior editor of SanDiego.com, which is a lot of SEO, content writing and editing, and marketing. I also book tables for nightclubs in San Diego. MARK: I pour drinks at a couple
of new hotspots, Florent Restaurant and Lounge in Downtown and the OB Noodle House Bar 1502 in OB. What do you do for fun? JESSICA: I either go out and turn up at a nightclub or stay home and turn on Netflix. Sometimes I go to the gym, too, but I’m not entirely sure if that’s out of boredom or necessity. MARK: I like cruising around to all the different neighborhoods to check out all the great known and not-soknown places to eat and drink. San Diego is so awesome — how we have all these different areas with different vibes so close to each other. What are you best at? JESSICA: Writing. MARK: I can throw down on the grill.
What do you suck at? JESSICA: Math. And driving. MARK: Shaving. If I could, I’d get a straight razor shave every three to four days. What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise? JESSICA: Ryan Gosling. MARK: Physically, I don’t really have a hair preference. Red, blonde, purple, whatever — bring it on. I’ve seen some sexy girls with all different types of stuff going on with their hair, but I definitely like a girl who takes care of herself and is a bit of an athlete. Other than that, someone who isn’t shy and doesn’t take themselves too seriously. (CONT. ON PAGE 122)
LOVE
{BLIND DATE}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 120)
Describe your special brand of sex appeal in five words or less. JESSICA: I’m pretty witty. Usually. MARK: Championship level. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. JESSICA: After six shots, I’m at least a seven. MARK: I’m going to go with a solid eight. How about for personality. JESSICA: Twelve-point-five. MARK: Eight-plus-plus. I may come off a little shy, but after awhile, that’s where the plusses come in. What’s your biggest fear? JESSICA: Fish. Please don’t make me explain this; I shudder. MARK: Snakes. Snakes on a plane, snakes on the ground — wherever they are, I highly dislike those things. What traits could your date exhibit that would be dealbreakers? JESSICA: Being unintelligent, being offended easily or having no
sense of humor. MARK: Having bad breath, being very judgmental and being way too serious. Fill in the blanks: I want my blind date to be “blank” and “blank.” JESSICA: I want my blind date to be fairly judged and thoroughly entertaining. MARK: Fun and legendary. Will the night end with a kiss,
something more or something less? JESSICA: We will most likely ride into the sunset together and never look back. MARK: One can only hope. What’s the most important thing in the world? JESSICA: Coconut water after a night of drinking. MARK: Happiness. I can’t emphasize that enough.
When Jessica and Mark arrive at Table No. 10, they head upstairs and sit at a prime corner table overlooking 10th Avenue and J Street. While they’re scanning the meat-focused “modern American” menu created by chef and co-owner Jason Gethin (formerly of Union Kitchen & Tap in Encinitas), a Flux Capacitor arrives at the table. A reference to Back to the Future, the dry-ice-chilled cocktail billows steams as it bubbles in a beaker (CONT. ON PAGE 124) before them.
THANK YOU! EPIC LIMO, 858.270.LIMO (5466) 122
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LOVE
{BLIND DATE}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 122)
PARKING ON THE DANCE FLOOR THE COUPLE GETS INTO THE GROOVE
A
fter sharing a few small plates and toasting more cocktails, the blind daters jump back into the limo. Next stop: Air Conditioned Lounge in North Park, which now has a brand-new, pressure-sensitive, illuminated dance floor on which the King of Pop could have shot his next “Billie Jean” video (R.I.P., Mr. Jackson). AC Lounge is packed as Jessica and Mark arrive and head back
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to the disco-fangled VIP room. A couple drinks later, and after lighting up (and lying down on) the light-up dance floor, they reboard the party train for the ride back downtown to AD Nightclub. Before entering the Gaslamp’s new sanctuary of booming EDM beats and bottle service, they’re split for mid-date debriefings. PacificSD: How’s it going so far? JESSICA: So far so good, it’s fun. We’re both industry; we’ve gone to places where we’ve both known an
abundance of people, and it’s great. MARK: It’s going great. Jess is awesome, spunky, sporadic, fun — couldn’t ask for anybody else to hang out with on a Friday night. What were your first impressions? JESSICA: He looked a little familiar, honestly, and it makes sense, because I looked familiar to him, too. We’re both in the industry and have a lot of the same friends, so it was a good first impression. MARK: She’s hot, petite, fit — all the good things.
Is this the type of person you’d normally date? JESSICA: No, but I usually date degenerate party animals, so that’s actually a compliment. MARK: Totally. She’s got the same interests as me, knows the same people I know, all good things. What do you think of the way your date is dressed? JESSICA: He looks like he’s about to go to AD Nightclub. MARK: She looks hot. (CONT. ON PAGE 126)
LOVE
{BLIND DATE}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 124)
How was Table No. 10? JESSICA: Table 10 is dope. I love the way that they set it up, the way they have the bar. I really like the fake birds on the wall. And I love their signature cocktails, especially the one that was steaming with the dry ice — that was phenomenal. I wanted to drink it and breathe out like a dragon. MARK: It was awesome, smelled great when we walked up the stairs, and the vibe in the whole place is excellent. Food was excellent; presentation was excellent. What did you have to eat? JESSICA: I had deviled eggs, beets and papas bravas [Spanish potato dish], and they were all phenomenal. And I’m vegetarian, so that’s saying a lot. MARK: I had deviled eggs, the citrus beet salad and the papas bravas. Everything was delicious. How was AC Lounge? JESSICA: There was a floor there
that changed colors when you stepped on it. There were other cool things, too, but I didn’t look up from that floor from the second I saw it to the second we left. How can I get one installed in my bedroom? MARK: I liked AC lounge a lot; it’s kinda got a funky ’70s disco feel, and I thought it was pretty rad that we had our own tap. What did you drink there? JESSICA: We had shots of tequila. MARK: Shots of tequila and the Saint Archer Blonde out of our very own VIP tap. What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far? JESSICA: He gets all of my jokes, all of them, and they’re pretty witty. I’m, like, pretty awesome when it comes to telling jokes. MARK: Her witty sarcasm that catches me off guard. I was expecting somebody to be in
their shell, and she’s just been straightforward the whole time. What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far? JESSICA: He knows a lot of people at weird, shitty dive bars — it’s a little concerning. MARK: She’s on her phone too much. What would your parents say if you brought your date home? JESSICA: My mom would probably be really happy that he’s a little less like what I’ve brought home previously. MARK: She’s on her phone too much.
Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks. JESSICA: Like, one million. MARK: Nine-point-nine. How about for personality? JESSICA: Twelve and a half. MARK: Nine-point-nine. Do you want to kiss your date now? JESSICA: I want to kiss a big bottle of Veuve. I don’t ever want to kiss anyone on the first date. MARK: I would do more than that. Does your date want to kiss you? JESSICA: Who wouldn’t? MARK: Probably not, she’s got too much on her deck. (CONT. ON PAGE 128)
THANK YOU! TABLE NO. 10, 369 10TH AVE., EAST VILLAGE, 619.550.1262, TABLENUMBER10.COM 126
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LOVE
{BLIND DATE}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 126)
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE AND THE WRITING ON THE WALL
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fter their mid-date interviews, Jessica and Mark enter AD Nightclub, which looks like what a nightclub in heaven probably does, not counting all the sinners, of course. Stainedglass-window lighting effects make a visit here something of a religious experience; the daters show their devotion to the spirit of the night by popping a bottle of champagne. Once they’ve had a chance to toast (and chug), they’re finally left to enjoy the rest of their evening away from the camera crew. The next morning, we call to see what we missed. PacificSD: How was AD?
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JESSICA: AD is dope. The décor reminds me of a cathedral, and the DJ booth is centrally located in a small space, so you feel like you’re at a private party. The acrobatics are on point there, too — sort of like falling down a rabbit hole into a wonderland of fun. MARK: AD is great I love that it’s smaller and more intimate. The décor is unlike any other club around San Diego. I love the whole Goth feel. Describe your booth and your experience in it. JESSICA: VIP everything. We were in a booth pretty central to the DJ and right in the action, so we were
fully immersed in all the AD fun. MARK: We were right in front of the DJs and inline with the aerial artist — she’s badass. What did you drink there? JESSICA: Veuve Clicquot. Duh. MARK: Just a bottle of Veuve, no big deal. Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after AD Nightclub? JESSICA: Bassmnt... and then maybe Parq? Unclear. The last thing I remember is making a toast and suggesting we rage.
MARK: After we left AD, we stopped by Bassmnt and Parq. It was nice, because I’m never out on a Friday night and I got to see a few friends that work at each of the spots. That was a nice little treat. When did you get home? JESSICA: I was hosting a few of the Patriot players when they were in town, so I brought them over to a few after-club spots. I’m not entirely sure what time. MARK: Around 2 a.m. Was there a kiss or romantic exchange? JESSICA: No. MARK: No kiss. (CONT. ON PAGE 130)
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LOVE
{BLIND DATE}
(CONT. FROM PAGE 128)
Quasi-celeb sighting: we caught a glimpse of the Shake Weight guy outside AD Nightclub.
How and when did the date end? JESSICA: We went over to Parq together, and then I had to flip into VIP-host mode, so we parted ways. MARK: I took off after a bit at Parq. I said “hey” to a few of my friends and took off before Jessica took advantage of me. What was the best part of the date? JESSICA: The light-up floor. I felt like a cat chasing a laser pointer. MARK: Getting to cruise around and check out spots I never really get to and seeing friends along the way. What was the worst part of the date? JESSICA: The hangover. MARK: It didn’t feel like much of a date, more of a hangout — not that I was looking for romance or
a future ex-wife or anything, but I would’ve liked a little more typical date conversations-slash-situations. Will there be a second date? JESSICA: I’m sure I will see him all the time at Florent, if that counts. MARK: No, I don’t think so, but I’m one-hundred-percent sure I’ll see her around. I definitely foresee myself buying her a drink when we run into each other, and maybe a lapper at Pacers sometime. What’s one thing your date really should know before going on another date? JESSICA: Stop being so polite, dude. How are girls supposed to blast angry Taylor Swift songs about you when you’re such a gentlemen? MARK: Don’t take yourself too serious.
What could have made this date better? JESSICA: A private concert from Kesha. MARK: Maybe if we didn’t know so many common people, but that’s just how working in bars and nightlife is. What did you learn about yourself last night? JESSICA: I really like dry-ice drinks, light-up floors and monster bottles of champagne. MARK: I never get out much. Jessica and Mark filled up at Table No. 10, laid down on the dance floor at AC Lounge, sat up in a VIP table at AD Nightclub and got down at Bassmnt and Parq. Despite all of the up-down-up-down, however, a love/sex/marriage (that’s PacificSD’s February issue theme,
BTW) connection wasn’t forged. Ladies who “Don’t take yourself too serious,” if you want someone who can “throw down on the grill,” you know where to find Mark. Guys, if you, like Jessica, “want to kiss a big a big bottle of Veuve,” sign up for bottle service. And if you see Jessica at the club, please let her know we’re disappointed in her “hosting a few of the Patriot players when they were in town.” If she had hosted a couple Chargers instead, maybe we wouldn’t have lost that game to New England. Why is this night different from all other nights? For Finest City bon vivants out on the town, it ain’t. It’s every weekend and most “Industry” nights, which is what makes it so magical. Eat a meal, have some drinks, raise the roof… then call a cab (or Epic Limo). See you out there!
THANK YOU! AD NIGHTCLUB, 905 FOURTH AVE., GASLAMP, 619.255.7366, ADNIGHTCLUB.COM THANK YOU! AIR CONDITIONED LOUNGE, 4673 30TH ST., UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, 619.501.9831, AIRCONDITIONEDLOUNGE.COM 130
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