BlueFire Grill has new chef: La Costa Resort & Spa has appointed Gina Rodriguez as the new chef de cuisine at its 324-seat BlueFire Grill restaurant. She will oversee daily kitchen operations and menu development. Rodriguez joins BlueFire from the Ventana Room at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Ariz., where she was the first female head chef and earned an invitation to cook at the James Beard House in New York. Rodriguez holds a degree in behavioral psychology and a culinary degree from Scottsdale Culinary Institute. She describes her style as contemporary new American, with influences of French, Spanish, Italian and Mediterranean technique. Rodriguez is now developing a spring menu for BlueFire, which will include her Spring Turnip And Yukon Potato Soup and Scallop And Lobster-filled Roasted Piquillo Pepper. Visit lacosta.com or call (800) 854-5000.

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Local culinary students compete in Seattle: Marcia Brown of Escondido and Tara Duddy of Poway are part of a five-member team of culinary students from the Art Institute of California-San Diego who will compete April 4 at the American Culinary Federation's Culinary Knowledge Bowl regionals in Seattle. The team (which includes San Diegans Edith Huffman, Alexis Nichols and Kristin Podgurski) will vie against nine other West Coast teams in a "Jeopardy"-style culinary quiz. The winning team will advance to the nationals in Orlando in July.

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North County Cake Club forming: Rosanne Zinniger, owner of the San Marcos cake-decorating shop Ro Z's Sweet Art Studio, is seeking North County cake decorators for a club that will hold its first meeting at 6:30 p.m. April 13 at 277 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road, San Marcos. The shop and Fondarific will also host a Spring Fling Cake Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 16. Participation fee is $10. Call (760) 744-0447.

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South Coast Winery honored with medals: Temecula's South Coast Winery earned 14 medals this month at the Jerry D. Mead New World International Wine Competition, topping last year's total of 12 medals at the contest (last year South Coast was also named California State Winery of the Year at the California State Fair). This year's win included a Best of Class for its 2008 Gewurztraminer, 3 gold medals for its 2007 GVR, 2008 Gewurztraminer and its Black Jack Port and 10 silvers. The Mead New World contest, held March 8-9 in Ontario, Ca., is open only to wineries in the Americas and Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

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"Beer Wars" pours into theaters: At 8 p.m. April 16, "Beer Wars" will play in movie theaters across the country, including five theaters in San Diego County (Mission Valley 20, La Jolla Village 12, Otay Ranch 12, Mira Mesa 18 and Horton Plaza). "Beer Wars" is a film about the big-label beer companies and the billion-dollar brewing process. A panel discussion will follow (broadcast from Los Angeles). For tickets, go to fathomevents.com.

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Hacienda de Vega adds specials: This Mexican courtyard cafe in Escondido has added daily dining specials. On Mondays, children 12 and under eat free (from the children's menu) with each paid adult. On Tuesdays, get two soft beef or chicken tacos for $5 with purchase of a house margarita. On Wednesdays, Escondido residents get a 20 percent discount. On Thursdays, a $30 dinner-for-two special is offered. The restaurant has also extended its happy hour from 3 to 6:30 p.m. daily. Groups of eight or more can get a 20 percent lunch discount. Hacienda de Vega is at 2608 S. Escondido Blvd. Call (760) 738-9804.

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Kashtan expands menu: The Rancho Bernardo bistro introduces three large sandwiches: the Bohemian Belly Buster, the German Schnitzel Sandwich and the Ukrainian Kiev Sandwich. Kashtan is also offering beer specials during every NCAA basketball game in March. Kashtan is at 12125 Alta Carmel Court, San Diego. Call (858) 485-5856

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Friars Folly adds lunch: San Marcos-based Friars Folly Wine Cellar has added lunch service from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays and brunch at noon Sundays. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean Spanish cuisine and offers live entertainment several nights a week in Old California Restaurant Row at 1032 W. San Marcos Blvd. Call (760) 736-8035.

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AquaTerra adds sushi happy hour: AquaTerra Restaurant at the Pala Mesa Resort is offering 50 percent off sushi rolls from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and 4 to 9 p.m. Sundays, along with nightly beer and sake specials. Pala Mesa is at 2001 Old Highway 395 in Fallbrook. Call (800) 722-4700.

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Pizza and beer: Flippin' Pizza announces a partnership with locally based Karl Strauss Brewing Co. Flippin' Pizza chain owner Patrick Farley (whose chain also includes Knockout Pizzeria stores) is offering Strauss beers on tap at his restaurants in Vista, Carlsbad and Oceanside. Beers include Red Trolley, Amber Lager, Windansea Hefeweizen, Woodie Gold, Endless Summer Light and new Tower 10 IPA. Visit www.flippinpizza.com.

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Pasta for Pennies: Olive Garden restaurants will team this month with 200 elementary schools nationwide for the 15th annual Pasta for Pennies fund-raiser. Schoolchildren collect spare change in their neighborhood to raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Classrooms that collect the most at each participating school are rewarded with a pasta dinner from Olive Garden. The program has raised $42 million for charity. To register, visit olivegarden.com.

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New restaurant Web site debuts: At FoodieBytes.com, you can type in your favorite entree and find restaurants that serve it within a 1- to 30-mile radius. The site is still building. Only 120 San Diego-area restaurants are listed now and while their wine lists, menus and price details are available, the number of customer reviews are limited, and there appears to be a lot of duplication in word searches.

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Picnic People marks 25 years: The San Diego-based catering company owned by Lisa Richards is celebrating its 25th year this month with a city proclamation and the announcement that since 1984 it has served more than 1 million hot dogs, 255,000 pounds of chicken and 20,000 gallons of barbecued beans. Its barbecue was honored at the Kansas City Barbecue Society National Caterer's Championship in 2006.

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Oceanaire announces new GM: Oceanaire Seafood Room San Diego has hired Philip Shayne as its new general manager. Shayne most recently served as general manager for Chef Allen's in Aventura, Fla., which under his management achieved a No. 1 Zagat rating and an International Star Diamond Award. Before that he worked at restaurants in New York including Five Crowns, Morton's of Chicago, Palladin and Barton G. Oceanaire, at 400 J St., is best known for its celebrity chef and partner, "Top Chef" finalist Brian Malarkey. Call (619) 858-2277.

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"Top Chef" contestant opens barbecue joint: Frankie "The Bull" Terlozi, who participated on the second season of Bravo's "Top Chef" TV cooking challenge series, has opened his own restaurant, Frankie the Bull's BBQ, in San Diego. The restaurant will specialize in serving smoked meats and comfort food using locally farmed ingredients. Terlozi's stint on "Top Chef" is remembered for his expertise at barbecue, his outspoken personality and his cooking-by-taste style. Frankie the Bull's BBQ is at 1127 W. Morena Blvd. Call (619) 276-2855.

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Good Earth giveaway: Good Earth Coffee invites socially concious consumers to enter its Good Earth Giveaway, with more than $25,000 in cash and donations available. Go to goodearthgiveaway.com to enter. The grand prize winner receives $10,000, and an additional $10,000 is donated to the charity of his or her choice. Second- and third-place winners receive $5,000, and five winners will receive a year's supply of Good Earth Coffees and Good Earth Teas. Register before May 19 at goodearthgiveaway.com.

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Keyways introduces new tasting glasses: Temecula's Keyways Vineyard & Winery has shattered the tradition of using stemmed wine goblets in its tasting room by introducing new stemless tumblers for members of its Master Key Wine Club. Popular in Europe, the new glasses (which look exactly like a wine glass without the stem) are sturdier, less likely to tip over and easier to clean. Purists prefer holding the stem of a wine glass to keep their body heat from warming the wine, so Keyways is chilling the tumblers before serving white wine (which is traditionally served chilled).

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Dining events

Pala Mesa Resort Italian Wine Dinner: The Fallbrook resort's AquaTerra Restaurant will host a five-course menu Thursday with wines from Italy's Gianni Zonin Vineyards. Chef Sean Sullivan will prepare tray-passed hors d'oeuvres, gnocchi, calamari salad, braised pork spareribs and warm ricotta tart with gorgonzola gelato. Reception begins at 6 p.m. (dinner at 6:30 p.m.) at 2001 Old Highway 395, Fallbrook. Tickets are $69 ($58 for resort members). Call (760) 731-6805.

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House of Philippines hosts "Chef Larry": San Diego's House of the Philippines will present a free, educational workshop about the food of the Philippine islands from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Hall of Nations, at Presidents Way and Pan American Road in San Diego's Balboa Park. "Chef Larry" Banares, author, chef at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines Hotel and frequently seen on local TV talk and cooking shows, will explore Filipino food history and influences and will offer food samples. Call (619) 804-8424.

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Hunter Steakhouse wine party: The Hunter Steakhouse will present a wine and food pairing event at 6 p.m. April 2 at 1221 Vista Way in Oceanside. Appetizers will be matched to two red and two white wines, all from California wineries. Cost is $25. Call (760) 433-2633.

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Taste of Julian: The Julian Merchants Association hosts this self-guided culinary tour of 10 Julian-area locations, with some featuring dishes prepared with Julian apples, from 1 to 4 p.m. April 4. Tickets are $20 at Julian Town Hall on Main Street. Call (760) 765-1857.

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Dream Dinners open house: Dream Dinners San Marcos invites the public to prepare a free three-serving meal for their family at the meal-assembly business from 5:30-7:30 p.m. April 7 at 1641 Grand Ave., Suite 102, in San Marcos. Call to reserve at (760) 471-0055.

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Monterey Bay Canners "All Saints" April Wine Dinner: The Oceanside restaurant's chef Adrian Reyna Sanchez presents a four-course dinner with wines from St. Supery and St. Francis vineyards at 6 p.m. April 9 at 1225 N. Harbor Drive. Call (760) 722-3474.

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"Thirsty Thursdays": Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas and San Diego's Dining Details personal chef service will host a series of food and wine pairings. The next is "Spring Fling," at 6:30 p.m. April 9. The menu (with notes from the sommelier) has six wine samples and six generous appetizers (Chino Farms spring produce, salmon tartare, duck confit, braised cherries and more). Cost is $55. Reserve to (619) 200-8977. Meritage is at 162 S. Rancho Santa Road.

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Cafe Merlot Winemaker dinner: Cafe Merlot and the Bernardo Winery will host a five-course dinner paired with Bernardo Winery wines at 6:30 p.m. April 10 at 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, San Diego. Cost is $85. Call (858) 592-7785. Future Winemaker dinners are scheduled for May 15, June 19 and July 24.

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Hellhole Canyon Chili Cook-off: Friends of Hellhole Canyon Open Space Preserve will host their first "Hellacious Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser" from noon to 5 p.m. April 18 at the Hellhole Canyon staging area, 19324 Santee Lane, Valley Center. Chili cooks will compete in three categories: Hellacious Hell, Purgatory and Paradise Mild. Tasting tickets are $10 for adults or $25 for a family (two adults, two kids). There will also be pony rides, a bounce house and celebrity judges. Chili cooks are still needed. Register at hellholecanyon.org.

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Rhythm & Vine, a Music & Wine Festival: The Boys and Girls Club of Greater San Diego hosts a fundraising gala featuring tastings by 40 wineries and 30 restaurants from 6 to 9 p.m. April 25 at Westfield North County in Escondido. The program will include live music by Diamond is Forever, Crossroads and the Classical Jazz Trio, and a silent auction. Tickets are $75 for general admission or $125 for VIP tickets, which entitle bearers to a private after-party. Call (858) 578-9463.

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Pala Mesa hosts avocado/tequila dinner: Pala Mesa Resort's AquaTerra Restaurant will host a four-course dinner pairing avocado-inspired dishes with sipping tequilas at 6 p.m. April 16 at 2001 Old Highway 395 in Fallbrook. Chef Sean Sullivan's menu will include avocado-enhanced scallops, halibut and more, with tequilas from Tequila Los Abuelos. Dinner is $75. Call (760) 731-6805.

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"Taste of Uptown/Hillcrest": More than 40 restaurants in San Diego's Hillcrest and Uptown communities will participate in an urban food crawl from noon to 4 p.m. April 18. Diners will receive a map for their self-guided culinary tour. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Call (619) 233-5008 or visit hillcrestbusinessassociation.com.

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Mount Palomar Winery 40th anniversary winemaker dinner: Temecula's Mount Palomar Winery winemaker Craig Boyd will host a five-course anniversary dinner with wine pairings from 7 to 10 p.m. April 25. The Fay Brothers will perform. Cost is $90 (or $75 for Wine Club members). Mount Palomar is at 33820 Rancho California Road. Call (951) 676-5047, Ext. 118.

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Meet the Chefs of Del Mar: The 13th annual fundraiser for Casa de Amparo will feature poolside tastings from 15 top Del Mar restaurants from 1 to 4 p.m. April 26 at the Hilton Del Mar, 15575 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Participants include Pamplemousse Grille, Sbicca, Addison, Silks, Red Tracton's, Pacifica Del Mar, Poseidon, Paradise Grille, Pacific Coast Grill, Americana, Epazote, Il Fornaio, Jake's Del Mar and others. Tickets are $100 (VIP tickets are $150). Call (760) 754-5500, Ext. 28.

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Dining Out for Life: Subaru's 19th annual Dining Out for Life fundraiser for HIV/AIDS will take place on April 30. More than 3,500 restaurants nationwide will donate a portion of sales that day toward HIV/AIDS programs within their community. In San Diego, more than 35 restaurants have signed up, and will donate up to 25 percent of the day's proceeds. For a list of participating restaurants, visit diningoutforlife.com/sandiego/participating.

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Taste of the Nation: The annual Taste of the Nation food fest, with tastings by more than 25 chefs from restaurants including Red Marlin, Quarter Kitchen, Pacifica Del Mar, Anthology and more, will be from 3 to 6 p.m. May 3 at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park. Tickets are $75. Proceeds benefit Share Our Strength's program to end childhood hunger in San Diego and elsewhere. Order at tasteofthenation.org.

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Fresh Farm dinner: Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers "Farmers, Foragers and Fishermen," a seasonal dinner series that allows guests to dine with the purveyors who produce, harvest and catch the ingredients for their meal. The next event at Loew's Mistral Restaurant, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. June 4, will feature micro- and petite greens and edible flowers from Fresh Origins farm. Cost is $48. Call (619) 424-4000, Ext. 4476.

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"Mama's Day" 2009: Nearly 70 restaurants will participate in the annual fundraiser for Mama's Kitchen from 6:30-9:30 p.m. May 8 at the Hyatt Aventine in La Jolla. Chefs including "Top Chef" contestants Brian Malarkey of Oceanaire and Richard Sweeney of Confidential, as well as Sam "The Cooking Guy" Zien, will participate, and chefs from the region's top restaurants will prepare tastings. Tickets are $125 for general admission and $250 for VIP admission. Proceeds benefit Mama's Kitchen, a San Diego nonprofit that provides meal delivery service for the critically ill. Visit mamaskitchen.org.

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Roll Out The Barrel: This wine and food tasting event, presented by San Diego County Credit Union, is set for 5:30 p.m. May 16 and benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Roll Out The Barrel will feature several wineries and restaurants, including Mi Sueno Winery and Brigantine, and will put on concerts by several local musicians, including Eve Selis and A.J. Croce, at Humphrey's Half Moon Inn & Suites, 2303 Shelter Island Drive in San Diego. Tickets for unlimited tastings are $100, or $175 for VIP Lounge admission. Go to makeawishgala.com.

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Taste of Little Italy: Mark your calendar for the annual food tour of this downtown San Diego district from 5 to 9 p.m. May 27. This year's list of participating restaurants and ticket prices has not been announced. For updates, visit tasteoflittleitalysd.com.

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Taste of Adams Avenue: More than 30 restaurants will offer tastings at this self-guided culinary tour of the San Diego neighborhoods of Kensington, Normal Heights and North Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 28. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Call (619) 233-5008.

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Easter (April 12) dining options:

The Brigantine-Del Mar: The Del Mar Brig hosts its annual Easter Egg Hunt & Champagne Brunch, with children's egg hunts at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Menu items range from $16 to $19. Call (858) 481-1166.

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Falkner Winery: Pinnacle Restaurant serves Champagne Brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with an omelet/egg station, pasta station, carving station and more. Guests over 21 receive a free glass of champagne (nonalcoholic beverages are included in ticket), and discounted wines will be offered. Brunch is $54.95 per person ($49.95 for club members) and $24.50 per child ($19.95 for a child of a wine club member). Children under 6 are free. Call (951) 676-8231, Ext. 1, or go to falknerwinery.com.

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The Grand Del Mar: The Carmel Valley resort offers egg hunts, tea service and two dining options. Brunch will be served from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the resort's chapel; cost is $85 for adults, $30 for ages 6 to 12. Easter egg hunt and seasonal crafts for children will be held on the lawn at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Amaya Restaurant hosts an a la carte brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner service (as well as three-course tasting menu for $40) from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Afternoon tea served from 2 to 4 p.m. for $36. Call (858) 314-1988.

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Hotel del Coronado: Brunch in the Crown Room ballroom runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $74 for adults, $32 for ages 6 to 10. The 1500 Ocean Restaurant hosts a four-course prix-fixe Easter menu from 5:30-10 p.m. Cost is $80 (three-course children's menu is $25). Free Easter egg hunts (for dining and hotel guests only) on the lawn at 10 a.m. and noon followed by optional Easter crafts ($7-$14). Reserve to hoteldel.com.

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Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa & Marina: The hotel will offer an underwater Easter egg hunt for children and a brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in its Red Marlin Restaurant. Cost is $48 for adults and $24 for ages 5 to 12. Call (619) 221-4868.

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Pacific Coast Grill: The Solana Beach restaurant offers a family buffet with a visit from the Easter Bunny from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 12 at 437 S. Highway 101. Price is $25.95 for adults, $9.95 for children. Call (858) 794-7632.

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Pala Mesa Resort: The Fallbrook resort's AquaTerra restaurant will offer an Easter buffet menu all day, priced at $39.95 for adults and $14.95 for children. Pala Mesa is at 2001 Old Highway 395 in Fallbrook. Call (800) 722-4700.

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Pechanga Resort & Casino: Options include an Easter brunch from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Journey's End restaurant. Price is $39.95 for adults, $12.95 for ages 10 and under. The Pechanga Buffet serves a Easter dinner from 4 to 10 p.m. featuring lamb, ham and roast beef, priced at $24.99 for adults and $6.99 for ages 3 to 11. The Pechanga Poker Room will offer a BBQ short ribs special for $7.95. Visit pechanga.com/dining/.

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Ponte Winery: The Temecula winery's brunch has an "Alice in Wonderland" theme; separate buffets for adults and children will be offered, as well as egg hunts for the kids and an open bar for the adults. Seatings are at 11 a.m., noon, and 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Cost is $70 per person ($63 per Ponte club member) and $30 per child under 12 ($27 for club member's child). Call (951) 694-8855 or go to pontewinery.com.

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Thornton Winery: The Temecula winery's Cafe Champagne hosts a buffet from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 12. Cost is $49.95 for adults, $19.95 for children 5 to 12. Children under 5 free. Call (951) 699-0088.

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U.S. Grant Hotel: The San Diego hotel offers two dining options: An Easter champagne brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Palm Court costs $65 for adults, $22 for ages 6-12. Children 5 and under are free. And an a la carte brunch will be available in The Grant Grill. Call (619) 744-2077.

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Vela: This new restaurant at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront presents a buffet brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost, which includes a glass of Prosecco, is $39 for adults, $19 for children. The Hotel, at 1 Park Boulevard, will also hold Easter egg hunts that morning. Call (619) 564-3333.

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Westgate Hotel: The Westgate Hotel in San Diego hosts tea parties with the Easter Bunny from 2:30 to 5 p.m. April 10 and 11. Cost is $36 for adults, $26 for children. Easter champagne brunch will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 12. Cost is $59 for adults, $25 for children under 12. Call (800) 221-3802.

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Wilson Creek Winery: The Easter prix-fixe menu at the winery's Creekside Grille is available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (regular menu is also available): three courses, with an amuse-bouche to start, and cost is $45 ($60 with wine pairing). Call (951) 699-9463 or go to wilsoncreekwinery.com.

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Mother's Day events

Wilson Creek Winery, Temecula: The Champagne Ballroom will honor mothers with a brunch and luncheon at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., respectively, May 10. Reservations are required for either seating. Breakfast includes a buffet, a carving station, omelet station and more; lunch consists of a pasta bar, fresh fish and more. Live music, a petting zoo and photographer will accompany the meals. Tickets are $70 for adults and $34 for children 12 and under (wine club members receive a 10 percent discount). Call (951) 699-9463 or go to wilsoncreekwinery.com. The winery is at 35960 Rancho California Road.

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In the spirits

Carlsbad Wine Merchants: Hosts tastings at 5 p.m. Fridays and 4 to 7 p.m. Saturdays for a fee at 5814 Van Allen Way, Suite 155, Carlsbad. Call (888) 750-WINE or visit www.CarlsbadWineMerchants.com.

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Harvest Ranch Market Del Mar: Wine tastings from 5-7:30 p.m. plus appetizers for $10-$20. The store is at 1555 Camino Del Mar, Suite 203, Del Mar. Call (858) 847-0555.

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Holiday Wine Cellar: Daily tastings from 5:30-7 p.m. at 302 W. Mission Ave., Escondido. Wine Down Mondays feature five wine tastes for $5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays and "Hop Over the Hump Wednesdays" are weekly beer-tasting event for $5. Call (760) 745-1200. Also coming up:

- 5:30 p.m. Saturday: New Belgium Brewing Co. premium tasting; $15-$20

- 5:30 p.m. Monday: Blind tasting of sauvignon blancs; $5

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The North County Wine Company: Tastings daily at 1099 San Marcos Blvd., San Marcos, plus special events from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and noon-6 p.m. Sundays. Call (760) 744-2119 or visit www.NorthCountyWineCompany.com.

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T&H Prime Meats & Sausage: The shop now offers tastings from 10 San Diego wineries from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays for $5, which includes four tastes and a San Diego Vintners Association souvenir wine glass, at 735 E. Mission Road, San Marcos. Call (760) 471-9192.

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Vinz Wine Bar: Full restaurant menu with wide wine menu by the glass or bottle. Wine tastings from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and 3 to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Tastings, from $5 to $10, come with charcuterie and cheese. Live music on Saturdays and outdoor patio dining. Vinz is at 201 E. Grand Ave., Escondido. Call (760) 743-8466 or vinzwinebar.net.

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The Wine Spot: Hosts tastings from 2-8 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; noon-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 1 to 6 p.m. Sundays at 2801 Roosevelt St., Carlsbad. Six tastings and an appetizer ($20). House tastings any time ($15). Call (760) 434-9463 or visit the-wine-spot.com.

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Wine Street Inc.: Weekly tastings from 3-7 p.m. Fridays, with appetizers. Wine Street is at 6986 El Camino Real, Suite D, Carlsbad. Call (760) 431-8455 or visit www.winestreet.com.

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Wine Styles: The Encinitas wine store hosts tastings from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and 1-6 p.m. Saturdays. Cost is $15 or $10 for WineClub members and includes six to eight wines and snacks. The shop also hosts WineDown Fridays, where guests enjoy wine and live music and can bring in food to socialize. Call (760) 633-0057.

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Classes

North County Culinary Academy: Chef Jenn presents a series of San Marcos ROP cooking classes from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays at Mission Hills High School in San Marcos. Subjects include everything from basic knife skills to advanced cooking techniques. Classes are $50 each. Register to (760) 752-1272.

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Palomar Workforce & Community Development: The Escondido campus will host a "Sushi Bar Favorites" class at 1 p.m. Saturday at 1935 E. Valley Pkwy. Mineko Moreno, co-author of "Sushi for Dummies," will demonstrate how to prepare sushi dishes at home. Call (760) 891-7626 or go to palomar.edu/venture.

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The Kitchen Witch: The Encinitas school hosts cooking classes at 127 N. El Camino Real; call (760) 942-3288 or go to www.kitchenwitchonline.com:

- Noon Thursday: Learn-a-Lunch -- Springtime Brunch; $34

- 6 p.m. Thursday: Sushi 911 -- Hands-on Sushi Rolls; $69

- 6 p.m. Friday: Fab-Friday -- Favorites from Phuket, Thailand; $59

- 6 p.m. Tuesday: Spring Tea Time; $59

- 6 p.m. Wednesday: Spring Martini Fling; $59

- 11 a.m. or 6 p.m. April 2: A Taste of Italian Wine; $59

- 6 p.m. April 3: Fab Friday -- Organic Food and Wine Feast; $59

- 11 a.m. April 4: Homemade Pasta; $69

- 6 p.m. April 6: An Evening with Firefly Grill; $59

- 11 a.m. April 7: Easter Celebration in Italy; $59

- 6 p.m. April 7: Dinner from New Mexico; $59

- 11 a.m. or 6 p.m. April 8: Cooking with Trader Joe's; $59

- 6 p.m. April 9: Italian-style Easter Dinner; $59

- 11 a.m. April 11: Knife Skills Class; $49

- 11 a.m. April 14: Spring Risottos, Soups and Pasta; $59

- 6 p.m. April 14: Sensational Thai Cuisine; $59

- 6 p.m. April 15: Easy Everyday Main Dishes; $69

- Noon April 16: Learn-a-Lunch -- Quick, Easy and Tasty Lunch; $34

- 6 p.m. April 16: Vietnamese Dinner Party; $59

- 6 p.m. April 17: Fab-Friday -- Pacific Rim Cuisine; $59

- 11 a.m. April 18: Fruitilicious (kids only); $34

- 6 p.m. April 20: An Evening with Pacifica Del Mar; $59

- 6 p.m. April 21: Margaritaville; $59

- 11 a.m. or 6 p.m. April 22: Fast Fish; $59

- Noon April 24: Learn-a-Lunch -- Cinco de Mayo; $34

- 6 p.m. April 24: Fab-Friday -- International Food and Wine Party; $59

- 6 p.m. April 28: Hawaiian Dinner Party; $59

- 6 p.m. April 29: Perfectly Cooked Pork; $59

- Noon April 30: Learn-a-Lunch -- Vegetarian Springtime Picnic; $34

- 6 p.m. April 30: Sushi Anyone?; $59

- 6 p.m. May 1: Fab-Friday -- Spring in Northwest Wine Country; $59

- 11 a.m. May 2: Cinco de Mayo Celebration (tweens only); $44

- 6 p.m. May 4: An Evening with Firefly Grill; $59

- 6 p.m. May 5: Cinco de Mayo Fiesta; $59

- 11 a.m. or 6 p.m. May 6: 5-Ingredient Main Dishes from the Kitchen Witch Pantry; $59

- 6 p.m. May 7: Seafood Madness; $59

- 11 a.m. May 8: Mommy and Me Fiesta!; $34

- 6 p.m. May 12: Cater Your Own Dinner Party; $59

- 6 p.m. May 13: My Favorite Simple Fish Recipes; $59

- Noon May 14: Learn-a-Lunch -- Light French Fare; $34

- 6 p.m. May 15: Fab-Friday -- Farmhouse Fare from California Wine Country; $59

- 11 a.m. May 16: Save Time, Save Money, Go Green; $69

- 6 p.m. May 18: An Evening with Pacifica Del Mar; $59

- 6 p.m. May 19: Spring Martini Fling; $59

- 11 a.m. or 6 p.m. May 20: American Steakhouse Cuisine; $59

- 6 p.m. May 21: Spring Dinner Party; $59

- Noon May 22: Learn-a-Lunch -- Spicy Dining; $34

- 6 p.m. May 22: Fab-Friday -- Roman Dinner Favorites; $59

- 11 a.m. May 23: Gourmet Burgers and Sandwiches (tweens only); $44

- 6 p.m. May 26: Casual Entertaining -- Gourmet Sandwiches; $59

- 6 p.m. May 27: Pucker Up -- Cooking with Citrus; $59

- 6 p.m. May 28: Japanese Cuisine for Beginners; $59

- 6 p.m. May 29: Fab-Friday -- Spanish Specialties; $59

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Cafe Merlot cooking class: The restaurant will offer "Kabobs, Brochettes & Skewers" from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday at 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, San Diego. Cost is $50. Call (858) 592-7785.

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Children cooking in Carlsbad: Captain Cook's Culinary Academy for Kids hosts weekly cooking classes for children with a new, all-organic menu every week: "Lil Explorers" (ages 4-7) from 3:15-4:15 p.m. Thursdays; and "First Mates" (ages 7 to 13), 3:30-5 p.m. Mondays or Wednesdays; and for the older kids (ages 13-18), 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesdays. Classes cost from $25-$40 or $60-$100 for three. Captain Cook's is at 6986 El Camino Real, Suite C. Call (760) 431-2278 or go to www.captaincooksculinaryacademy.com.

- This week: Fling into Spring -- Herbed mustard chicken drumsticks, corn tomato salad, seasonal fruit cups with mint dressing

- Next week: Easter Brunch -- Spinach/red pepper egg pinwheels, creamed broccoli with parmesan, carrot cake muffins

- 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 6-9: European Road Trip Food Camp, dishes from Italy, Greece, Spain and Germany, ages 7-13; $150

- Week of April 13: Appetizer Mania -- Corn cakes with mango salsa, crispy potato bites, mini chocolate bouches

- Week of April 20: Earth Week -- Local asparagus/mushroom tarts, chocolate-dipped orange shortbreads

- Week of April 27: Cinco de Mayo -- Zesty Mexican pie, guacamole, sweet apple burrito

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Captain Cook's adult classes: Captain Cook's Culinary Academy for Kids is also hosting adult cooking classes at 7 p.m. Thursdays or 11 a.m. Fridays this month. All classes are $45 (or $150 for four). Captain Cook's is at 6986 El Camino Real, Suite C, Carlsbad. Call (760) 431-2278 or go to www.captaincooksculinaryacademy.com.

- Thursday and Friday: Seasonal Soups

- Week of April 2: Rice 3 Ways

- Week of April 9: Cold Appetizers

- Week of April 16: Hot appetizers

- Week of April 23: Sandwich workshop

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Ro Z's Sweet Art Studio: Rosanne Zinniger's cake decorating shop and studio at 277 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road, San Marcos, offers classes in cake decorating. Call (760) 744-0447 or rozsweetartstudio.com.

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Macy's School of Cooking: The school is in the Macy's Mission Valley Home Store, 1555 Camino de la Reina, San Diego. Call (888) 424-FOOD or go to macys.com/events and type 92108 in the ZIP code field:

- Noon Saturday: Easter Celebration with Bernard Guillas; $10

- Noon April 4: Great Gatherings with Janet Burgess; $15

- Noon April 11: Eat Well: Sustainable Meats with Dustin Anselm; $30

- Noon April 18: Fresh and Local with Bernard Guillas; $10

- 11 a.m. July 13-17: Macy's Kids in the Kitchen with Janet Burgess; $175

- 11 a.m. July 27-31: Macy's Kids in the Kitchen with Janet Burgess; $175

- 11 a.m. Aug. 3-7: Macy's Teens in the Kitchen with five local chefs; $210

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Hands-on Chocolate Class: Dallman Confections will host a two-part, make-your-own-gourmet-chocolates class from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Hotel del Coronado's ENO shop. First class: how to make a ganache, infuse herbs and spices and how to decorate and dip chocolates. Second class: how to temper and mold chocolates, make caramel and other techniques. Class is $60 and limited to six. Register at (619) 808-1749.

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Culinary series at The Grand Del Mar: These monthly two-hour sessions take place year-round, conducted by the resort's chefs. Classes are limited; call (858) 314-2000. The Grand Del Mar is at 5300 Grand Del Mar Court. Upcoming:

- 6:30 p.m. Wednesday: Brunch, Anyone? -- Executive Chef Jason McLeod will make Dungeness Crab Benedict, Egg White Frittata and Healthy Smoothies; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

- 10 a.m. May 9: Just For Kids -- McLeod leads a hands-on session with Stuffed French Toast With Creme Fraiche And Marinated Figs with fresh-squeezed juices; $75 for parent and child, $25 for an additional child (limit two per adult) (in resort kitchen)

- 6:30 p.m. June 10: Wines for Summertime -- Wine Director Jesse Rodriguez will conduct wine tastings, and McLeod will suggest food pairings with each for summer lunches, dinners, picnics and more; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

- 6:30 p.m. July 13: A Taste for Tomatoes -- Chef William Bradley teaches how to make Tomato Vinaigrette, Oven-roasted Tomatoes and Tomato Sorbet; $95 per person (at Addison)

- 6:30 p.m. Aug. 12: Summer on Ice -- McLeod will teach how to prepare Lobster Cocktail, West Coast Oysters, Organic Shrimp, Dungeness Crab and Gazpacho; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

- 6:30 p.m. Sept. 23: A is for Apples -- McLeod will teach Apple Tart Tartin, Apple Cider and Apple Chutney; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

- 6:30 p.m. Oct. 14: Wines for Fall Feasts -- Rodriguez will present reds and whites for fall, and McLeod will present pairings such as Braised Short Ribs with Apple Puree and Seared Scallops with Parsnip Puree; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

- 6:30 p.m. Nov. 18: Save and Savor -- McLeod will teach techniques on preserving and curing. Recipes include Gravlax and Beet-Cured Salmon, Duck Confit and Pear Marmalade; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

- 6:30 p.m. Dec. 2: A Baker's Holiday -- Pastry Chef Thierry Delourneaux will demonstrate Chocolate Ganache Buche de Noel, Pumpkin Creme Brulee, Painted Cookies and Citrus Panna Cotta; $95 per person (in resort kitchen)

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Great News! Discount Cookware & Cooking School: The San Diego school hosts cooking classes at 1788 Garnet Ave. (in the Pacific Plaza at Garnet Avenue and Jewell Street); reserve to (858) 270-1582, Ext. 3, or go to www.great-news.com. Call to reserve a space, as classes fill up early:

- 6 p.m. April 1: Hands-On Advanced Sushi -- Nigri and Battleship Sushi; $69

- 10:30 a.m. April 2: Spring Luncheon; $49

- 6 p.m. April 2: Spring Martinis and More!; $59

- 6 p.m. April 6: An Evening with Kensington Grill; $49

- 10:30 a.m. April 6: Spring Tea Time; $49

- 6 p.m. April 7: Greek Easter Feast; $59

- 6 p.m. April 8: Do-Ahead Easter; $49

- 10:30 a.m. April 9: Baja Flavors With a Twist!; $49

- 6 p.m. April 9: Restaurant-style Main Dishes Made Easy; $59

- 1 p.m. April 11: Hands-on Basic Sushi; $69

- 6 p.m. April 13: Pass the Parmesan Please!; $59

- 11:30 a.m. April 14: Quick and Easy Lunch -- Wine Country; $29

- 6 p.m. April 14: Vietnamese Dinner; $49

- 6 p.m. April 15: Risotto, Risotto, Risotto; $49

- 10 a.m. April 16: Ker Wholesale Indian Store Tour and Buffet Lunch; $49

- 6 p.m. April 16: Curries from Around the World; $49

- 6 p.m. April 17: Deliciously Fresh Spring Dinners; $49

- 11 a.m. April 18: Entertaining at Home with Friends; $49

- 6 p.m. April 20: Maureen Clancy's Best Recipes From the Past 25 Years; $49

- 10:30 a.m. April 21: Cooking Italian Style; $49

- 6 p.m. April 21: Basic Knife Skills; $49

- 6 p.m. April 22: Japanese Noodle House -- Comfort Food; $49

- 10:30 a.m. April 23: Paella Perfection; $49

- 6 p.m. April 23: Spring Grilling, Indoors and Out!; $49

- 6 p.m. April 24: Friday Night Dinner Party -- Cinco de Mayo Celebration; $49

- 11 a.m. April 25: Dining in Morocco; $49

- 11 a.m. April 26: Calling All Kids -- Around the World; $49 adult, $39 child (7-14)

- 6 p.m. April 27: Steaks, Steaks, Steaks!; $59

- 10:30 a.m. April 28: Delicious Chicken Entrees; $49

- 6 p.m. April 28: International Flavors and Faces of Adoption (proceeds donated to JFS Adoption Alliance); $49

- 6 p.m. April 29: Fresh and Easy Dinner Party; $49

- 10:30 a.m. April 30: One-Dish Meals; $49

- 6 p.m. April 30: Margaritaville; $49

- 6 p.m. May 1: Friday Night Dinner Party -- French Dinner; $49

- 1 p.m. May 2: Hands-on Basic Sushi; $69

- 11 a.m. May 3: Calling All Kids -- Tic Tac Dough; $49 adult, $39 child (7-14)

- 6 p.m. May 4: Sweet and Savory Spring Temptations; $59

- 10:30 a.m. May 5: Quick and Easy Lunch -- San Diego Style; $29

- 6 p.m. May 5: Elegant Entertaining on a Budget; $49

- 6 p.m. May 6: Party Food for Special Guests; $49

- 10:30 a.m. May 7: Economical Cooking for One or Two; $44

- 6 p.m. May 7: Cooking with Citrus; $49

- 6 p.m. May 8: Restaurant-style Seafood Dishes; $59

- 11 a.m. May 9: Basic Breads; $44

- 6 p.m. May 11: Ribbing It!; $59

- 10:30 a.m. May 12: Everyday Easy Eats; $49

- 6 p.m. May 12: The Sauce Goddess -- Eating Lean and Full of Flavor; $49

- 6 p.m. May 13: South of the Border Celebration; $49

- 10:30 a.m. May 14: Delicious Dishes Featuring Asparagus; $49

- 6 p.m. May 14: Tapas and Sangria (a fundraiser for Les Dames D'Escoffier International, San Diego chapter); $49

- 6 p.m. May 15: Delicious Dishes for Blue Cheese Lovers!; $49

- 11 a.m. May 16: Calling All Kids -- Science Project; $49 adult, $39 child (7-14)

- 9 a.m. May 17: Nijiya Japanese Market Tour; $49

- 6 p.m. May 18: Eating Italian -- Rome; $49

- 10:30 a.m. May 19: Chinese Stir-Fry; $44

- 6 p.m. May 19: Enjoy, It's Gluten Free!; $49

- 6 p.m. May 20: Delicious Fish; $49

- 10:30 a.m. May 21: Thai One On; $49

- 6 p.m. May 21: One Dish Meals -- Casseroles for All Occasions; $49

- 6 p.m. May 22: Friday Night Dinner Party -- Pacific Rim Cuisine; $49

- 11 a.m. May 23: Hands On Tamales; $69

- 10:30 a.m. May 26: Fast and Fabulous Chicken Breasts; $49

- 6 p.m. May 26: Enchanting Indian Cuisine; $49

- 6 p.m. May 27: Going Hog Wild; $49

- 10:30 a.m. May 28: Trader Joe's -- Mega Flavors in Minutes; $44

- 6 p.m. May 28: Fast and Fabulous Chicken Breasts; $49

- 6 p.m. May 29: Foodies Night Out -- Mediterranean Style; $49

- 11 a.m. May 30: Beef It Up!; $49

- 2 p.m. May 31: Basic Knife Skills; $49

- 6 p.m. June 1: Steaks, Steaks, Steaks!; $59

- 11:30 a.m. June 2: Quick and Easy Lunch -- California Wine Country Style; $29

- 6 p.m. June 2: Mastering the Grill; $49

- 6 p.m. June 3: Delicious and Easy Rice Bowls; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 4: Back to Basics -- Simple Home Cooking; $49

- 6 p.m. June 4: Wholesome Foods -- Vegetarian Cuisine; $49

- 6 p.m. June 5: Entertaining on a Budget -- Hearty Party; $49

- 11 a.m. June 6: Canning for Dummies -- Beginning Home Canning; $44

- 11 a.m. June 7: Calling All Kids -- Sing Around the Campfire; $49 adult, $39 child (7-14)

- 6 p.m. June 8: Italian Style Grilling; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 9: Light and Healthy Everyday Entrees; $49

- 6 p.m. June 9: My Big Fat Greek Cooking Class; $49

- 6 p.m. June 10: Do-ahead Father's Day Dinner; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 11: Hot Off the Grill; $49

- 6 p.m. June 11: Entertaining Entrees with Wines Under $10; $49

- 6 p.m. June 12: Friday Night Dinner Party -- Gourmet Sandwiches for Casual Entertaining; $49

- 11 a.m. June 13: Hands-on -- On Techniques in Vegetable Carving; $49

- 6 p.m. June 15: The "Man" Class; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 16: Hands-on Cake Decorating; $59

- 6 p.m. June 16: De-mystifying Convection Cooking; $49

- 6 p.m. June 17: Seafood and More!; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 18: Hands-on Tamales; $69

- 6 p.m. June 18: Martinis and Grilling -- Delicious Combinations; $59

- 6 p.m. June 19: Cooking with Beer; $59

- 11 a.m. June 20: Entertaining at Home -- Southwestern Tapas and Sangria; $49

- Noon June 20: Wusthof Knife Sharpening Event; $2 donation

- 4 p.m. June 20: Wusthof Trident Knife Maintenance and Seminar; $10

- 6 p.m. June 22: Pucker Up, It's Lemons!; $44

- 11:30 a.m. June 23: Quick and Easy Lunch -- Sensational Summer Food; $29

- 6 p.m. June 23: Basic Knife Skills; $49

- 6 p.m. June 24: Cool Summer Do-ahead Appetizers; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 25: Chinese Dinner Party; $44

- 6 p.m. June 25: Summer Salad Suppers; $49

- 6 p.m. June 26: Friday Night Dinner Party -- Hawaiian Flavors; $49

- 1 p.m. June 27: Hands-on Basic Sushi; $69

- 9 a.m. June 28: Nijiya Japanese Market Tour; $49

- 11 a.m. June 28: Calling All Kids -- Pasta Makes Perfect; $49 adult, $39 child (7-14)

- 6 p.m. June 29: An Evening with Kensington Grill; $49

- 10:30 a.m. June 30: Fast, Fresh and Easy Everyday Dishes; $49

- 6 p.m. June 30: Keeping it Simple -- Full Flavor with Few Ingredients; $49

- 6 p.m. July 1: Tuscan al Fresco; $49

- 10:30 a.m. July 2: We All Scream For Ice Cream!; $44

- 6 p.m. July 2: Backyard BBQ Entrees with Marinades and Rubs; $49

- 6 p.m. July 6: Homemade Ravioli -- The Lotsa Pasta Way; $49

- 10:30 a.m. July 7: Great Sauces on Simple Grilled Entrees; $49

- 6 p.m. July 7: Hands On Tamales; $69

- 6 p.m. July 8: Hands On Advanced Sushi -- Beyond the Basics; $69

- 10:30 a.m. July 9: Authentic Vietnamese; $49

- 6 p.m. July 9: Fresh, Fast Fish; $49

- 6 p.m. July 10: Friday Night Dinner Party -- Asian BBQ; $49

- 11 a.m. July 11: Working with Phyllo Dough; $49

- 11 a.m. July 12: Calling All Kids -- Dinner & a Movie; $49 adult, $39 child (7-14)

- 6 p.m. July 13: Understanding Miso; $59

- 10:30 a.m. July 14: Teens Only -- Basic Knife Skills; $49

- 6 p.m. July 14: The Greatness of Garlic; $49

- 6 p.m. July 15: Vegetarian Delight; $49

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Send information about local food products, food events or classes to Food Editor Pam Kragen, North County Times, 207 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Escondido, CA 92025; fax to (760) 745-3769, or e-mail to food@nctimes.com.