Who Won the BEST TACOS at the 2024 SAN DIEGO FOOD + WINE FEST???

November 25, 2024Local WallyComment

This isn’t your average food festival with tiny bites of average food - The Grand Fiesta knocks it out of the park!

If you went to the SD Food + Wine Fest’s GRAND FIESTA, aka Taco TKO, and if you were like me, you ate a ton of tacos. I mean, dozens of tacos, all of them with delicious gourmet ingredients. And if you’re like me, you were sipping some ultra high class mescal and sipping lots of Baja Wine. Look, I’m just saying that my memory of the event is blurry other than a general overview that I had a REALLY good time! I’m going to tell you all about it but before we go too far if you’re wondering if you should go to the next Grand Fiesta then click this button so you can get all of the info on next years event. But spoiler alert - this is my favorite food festival in San Diego so yeah, go!

2025 SD Food + Wine Fest Info

At the SD Food + Wine Fest’s Grand Fiesta - not to be confused with the Grand Tasting event held the day before on San Diego Bay - there are rows and rows of booths all making fresh tacos and handing them out and hoping they get your vote for San Diego’s best taco. No crummy mini bites, no generic taco stand taco, these are designed for serious taco fans.

Rows and rows of booths handing out tacos and beverages with live music in the background.

As you taste the tacos you get to vote for your favorites and this year the People voted top taco to Chef Ilean Padilla from Mexica Fe for the Desert Taco made with beef and miso mole and ashed chiles, with green salsa consisting of tomatillo, avocado, cambray onion, soy bean sprouts and lime on a homemade flour tortilla.

To be totally honest when I got this taco I sort of wondered if it really qualified as a taco since the form factor looked a lot like a skinny burrito. But taco or not, it knocked me out and I agree with the Peoples Choice, this one was the incredible. Good job, may I have another? Of course you can! This is the Grand Fiesta!

Judges’ Choice for the 2nd year in a row was Chef Marcus Twilegar of Palmys Pacific Beach. Chef Marcus scored high marks from the judges for his Guajillo braised short rib taco with brussels sprouts, crispy sunchoke, queso Oaxaca on a hand pressed corn tortilla. OK, sue me, I didn’t get that photo nor did I get that taco but come on, there were so many tacos and have you ever tried to hold a taco and a margarita and take a photo? It’s hard, really hard!

I did however get a nice photo of the Judges Second Place winner - Del’s Hideout with their Smoked pork belly taco with citrus marinated tomatoes and onions, avocado mash, aji crema and cilantro microgreens. It was pretty, pretty good.

And here we are, EVERY WINNER FROM THE 2024 GRAND FIESTA

People’s Choice First Place Grand Prize Winner
Chef Ilean Padilla – Mexica Fé
Taco description: Beef and miso mole and ashed chiles, with green salsa made of tomatillo, avocado, cambray onion, soy bean sprouts, and lime on a homemade flour tortilla

People’s Choice Second Place Winner
Chef Ben Diaz – Corkfire Kitchen
Taco description: Lamb Rib Birria-Queso Taco, Salsa Roja, Huitlacoche Salad
People’s Choice Third Place Winner
Chef Juan Saad – Alchemy
Taco description: Taco Zarandeado with adobo marinated Mexican shrimp zarandeado, Jamaica pickled onions, chile toreado crema, and a recado negro pineapple salsa, garnished with micro cilantro
Judges’ Choice First Place Grand Prize Winner
Chef Marcus Twilegar – Palmys Pacific Beach
Guajillo braised short rib, brussel sprout, crispy sunchoke, queso Oaxaca, hand pressed corn tortilla
Judges’ Choice Second Place Winner
Chef Martin Juarez – Del’s Hideout
Smoked pork belly taco with citrus marinated tomatoes and onions, avocado mash, aji crema and cilantro microgreens
Judges’ Choice Third Place Winner
Chef Lucio A Hernandez – EMMA Baja French
SHRIMP TACO (capeado or la parrilla), chintextile aioli, avocado, spicy leaves, fried shrimp and lacto-fermented mushroom powder, lime, brown butter macha sauce

But really, everyone was a winner at the Grand Fiesta. I really love this event - it’s priced low enough so you don’t have to think too hard about it (hey, a lot of food events can be big bucks so I appreciate that), and what’s not to love about a sunny San Diego afternoon eating taco after taco like you’re Homer Simpson? Located at the huge park at Liberty Station, it’s never been super crowded so you can just walk up and get a taco, and another, and another. Wait, I want a drink. Baja wines or something else? Let’s try them all!

So congrats to the winners, and really, kudos to everyone who was there who made the Grand Fiesta so much fun. The San Diego Food + Wine Festival is the best in the nation and it’s right here in our backyard. The Grand Fiesta is so San Diego, the perfect afternoon in our perfect city. Mark your calendar for next November and come back in the fall when the event info gets posted. Just don’t miss it! It’s that good!

Grand Fiesta Info

San Diego Food + Wine Fest 2025: Let's Start with a Review of 2024

November 11, 2024Local WallyComment

Everyone’s having a great time at the San Diego Food + Wine Fest

Not a day goes by that I don’t count my blessings to live here in San Diego. As if living by incredible beaches and basking in non-stop sunshine wasn’t enough, we also are home to the SAN DIEGO FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL, an annual event that happens every November. I’ll tell you all about it but if you’re thinking about coming to the 2025 event stop thinking and just do it because there is no way you’re not going to be blown away if it’s anything like past events.

2025 Event Info

Let me give you a quick overview of the event for your 2025 game plan. The event this year took place the first week of November. The Grand Tasting event is the one most people think of when you mention the San Diego Food + Wine Fest. This is the event held outside on the bay near Seaport Village where you’ll find scores of booths handing out gourmet samples, unlimited wine and beverages, where the scent of wood burning BBQ’s fill the air mixed with the sounds of live music - all with stunning views of San Diego Bay. Take a look - no drooling!

You’ll find plenty of exceptional wines - I couldn’t get enough of the Pinot Noirs from Sangiacomo winery which is located in south Sonoma. If you haven’t been there make sure it’s on your itinerary next time you visit Napa and Sonoma because their wines are exceptional. Ask for Joanna or Meghan and tell them you’re friends with Local Wally if you want to be treated like a VIP. Did you know I also write NapaTouristGuide.com? So trust me, this is great wine!

Joanna pouring Sangiacomo Wines at the San Diego Food + Wine Festival

Paso Robles was also represented, as were wineries from Baja California, Temecula, everyone was there. Wines were unlimited and there were no snarky comments or judgement if you kept coming back for more. And more. And yes, spirits and beer and cocktails were there as well with manageable lines so you never had to wait too long to get a refill.

Truffles! Lowes Coronado always does a great job at this event.

As for the food, someone was calling out “who wants truffles?” if that gives you an idea of the food qualify. Lowes Coronado had pillowy soft gnocci topped with fragrant truffle shavings. Not truffle oil, that’s so amateur. The real deal. I gulped that down like my dog grabs treats and moved on because there was so much good food this year. Bone marrow, tacos, and my favorite bite, the pork belly skewers grilled and served with a stone fruit glaze from Huntress from the Gaslamp District that knocked my socks off. Best thing I ate for sure, but plenty of other runner ups for sure.

I like anything on a stick, especially if it’s grilled pork belly from Huntress Steakhouse

I’ve been to this event every year for the past 15 years and this was by far the best event. It gets better every year and there’s no reason to believe that 2025 isn’t going to be even better. Look, trust me, get some friends and go. It’s worth every penny. And if you can swing it then splurge on the VIP tent because while the food and wine at the standard event is incredible, the VIP tent really kicks it up a notch. Plus, the live band is in the tent and the dance floor is calling - go ahead, have another glass of Chateau Montelena and show them you can still do the moonwalk.

And there’s more to the San Diego Food + Wine Fest!

The Grand Tasting is what everyone talks about but prior to that Saturday event is a week of excursions and dinners and wine tasting events. Check out their schedule but if gourmet dinners, trips to Baja wine country, or just food strolls through San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods sound interesting you’ll want to pay special attention to these events.

And every year there’s The Grand Decant, a wine tasting event featuring the best of the best and held indoors on Friday evening before the main event. Think of this as Christmas Eve of the SD Food + Wine Fest. It’s fun, there’s a ton of wine, a few gourmet snacks, and a good way to whet the appetite for what’s to come on the weekend.

It’s Taco Time on Sunday at the San Diego Food + Wine Fest

the grand fiesta and taco tko is on sunday

After the Grand Tasting event on Saturday you would think that you’ve had enough but then you find out that there’s The Grand Fiesta on Sunday featuring dozens of tacos, tequilas, cocktails, and Baja Wines and all of a sudden you’re ready to go again.

Held at the big park at Liberty Station, The Grand Fiesta is similar to The Grand Tasting but features just tacos - and I’m not talking Robertos or Wallybertos level, I’m talking about gourmet tacos that are competing for your vote for best taco in San Diego. There’s not just a Birria taco, there’s a Birria with Mac and Cheese taco from Krispy Boz Tacos and it was so decadently delicious that I split it with my wife - and instantly regretted not getting one for myself (back in line, Wally).

Some of the tacos looked like works of art too delicious to eat - but ate them I did and every bite was worth it.

The Grand Fiesta is one of my most favorite foodie events and it’s a bit less expensive than The Grand Tasting. Super casual and relaxed, no long lines, live music, and if you love tacos then there’s no way you’re not going to love this event. Seriously, bring a bunch of friends and there’s no way you’re not going to have a good time. And yes, I would like to try some Mezcal. Which one? All of them please.

WRAP IT UP WALLY!

We are so lucky to live here in San Diego. But sometimes it’s easy to forget how wonderful it is here. If you need a reminder then buy tickets to the San Diego Food + Wine Festival in 2025. You’ll leave full and happy with a huge smile on your face as you impatiently wait for another year to pass so you can do it again. I know because I just got home and couldn’t wait to share this with you.

Was Paula Deen Right About America?

November 9, 2024Local Wally2 Comments

I hate this.

A few days ago the United States elected him. I can’t even say his name, I despise him so much. If you voted for him, I’m sorry but hear me out because at one time I voted for him too. But as I dove deeper into who he was, what he represents, what his vision for the United States was, I knew that it was, as they say, not for me. His followers would agree. I am not accepted. I am not invited. I am not part of his America.

When was it when Paula Deen said the N word and got kicked off TV? That was the right thing to do. Today if she did that she might end up on his cabinet. She would be embraced, like a Kyle Rittenhouse, as some sort of hero brave and patriotic enough to say it like it is. Cue the background music - This is Not America.

Or is it? Because as a 6th generation Chinese American whose family came to the US in the mid 1800’s, I thought racism was overblown. I hadn’t experienced it since I was a kid and as an adult thought we had progressed, that people were educated and enlightened enough to see past differences, to actually embrace them.

I was wrong.

I had do deal with racism directly due to his terrible response to Covid. Fearful that a nationwide pandemic would hurt his chances for re-election, instead of doing the right thing and uniting the nation, he did what any playground bully would do - he blamed others.

For months he made anti-Chinese jokes which resulted in anti-Asian racism that is sadly part of our culture today. Some of my non-Asian relatives sided with him, they defended him, and in their attempt to make sure I wasn’t offended told me that not to worry because they think of me as white. That was painful. And awakening. I suppose it was that moment that I became, again as they call it, woke. I literally woke up and realized I was not part of that world, I didn’t want to be part of that world. But here we are today with 51% of the US saying they are OK with racism. They will use the playground taunt that their leader uses so effectively, “I’m not racist, you are.” No my friend, you are racist if you defend a racist. Own it.

I don’t know what to do with this part of my family any longer. I miss them, I guess in a way I still love them, but I don’t know how to get past this hurt and betrayal. And I realize that there is no way to communicate this in a way that will resonate, that will make them change their minds if it hasn’t happened yet. I also am quite aware that they think they did nothing wrong by defending him, by voting for him, by changing the course of America to one that’s no longer united. To them it’s politics as normal, vote Red, Fox News, even if it means turning a blind eye to the ugliness.

My hope is that a big part of the 51% didn’t vote for racism and misogyny or all of the other very poor character traits he possesses but rather were tricked into believing that he would bring down the price of bread and gas. And I hope that when he picks on someone they know because of their race or skin color, or religion or sexual preference, that as a country we all stand up and say it’s wrong. Because it’s not about undocumented immigrants taking your jobs - that’s how he frames it to make it more palatable. It’s about non-white people “poisoning the blood” of our country, a line that both he and Hitler used. Does that offend you? It should.

All of the Paula Deens will have their moment right now but I pray that as the chaos unfolds over the next four years, as people you know and love are victimized, marginalized and tossed aside, that a tiny spark is ignited that will reunite our country to stand up to the bullies and reclaim a future for our children and grandchildren that we can be proud to say we were a part of in shaping. I’m not holding my breath. But I can hope.

Note: This is written from the heart, first draft stream of consciousness writing. I might delete it. But until then I would love your comments.

San Diego "TacoFest" is Coming Nov 10, 2025, at Liberty Station: San Diego Wine + Food Fest

October 28, 2024eventsLocal WallyComment

SAN DIEGO WINE + FOOD FEST TACOFEST GRAND FIESTA IS COMING NOV 10, 2025

The Lowdown in One Bite: Dozens of booths handing out gourmet tacos along with unlimited Baja wines and spirits make for a grand finale to the San Diego Wine + Food Fest. Held on Nov 10, 2025, at the large Ingram Plaza park in Liberty Station, it’s a laid back fun event where you sample taco after taco and get to vote who makes the best in the San Diego Taco TKO.

How Much Does it Cost? The general ticket is$109 and gets you three hours of unlimited tacos and drinks.

Is the San Diego Wine and Food Fest Grand Fiesta TacoFest WORTH IT?? I’ve been to many wine and food festivals and “Taste of…” events and this by far my favorite for overall value and culinary enjoyment. The tacos are insane with dozens of chefs putting their best taco forward and every taco is elevated to new levels of deliciousness. If you love tacos (if you live in San Diego of course you do), this event is for you. Unlike a lot of food events where the bites are Costco sample size, at the Grand Fiesta you’ll find full sized tacos along with fully packed street tacos. They’ll be rolling you out like a giant burrito if you try them all.

What to Expect at San Diego’s Wine + Food Fest Grand Fiesta?? The vibe is oh so friendly and relaxed. A leisurely walk past the booths, grab a taco, any taco, that looks tasty and a beverage to wash it down. Sit back and do some people watching, listen to the live music, go back for more. The lines are short or non-existent at the booths so there’s no pressure to get back in line. And the food, you might find a carne asada or carnitas taco but trust me when I say that it will be one of the BEST you’ve ever had. I’ve gone to this event for the past few years and seriously have only had maybe one taco that I would call a dud - and it was barely a dud, just hard to compete when the stand next to you is grilling octopus and lobster. Wait…Seriously??

Grab Some Friends - Treat Yourself to a Grand Fiesta! If you’ve never been to a wine and food festival then start with this one. It’s fun, it’s easy, and I guarantee in the end you’ll going to want to come back again next year. It’s a fun social event so get some friends together and let’s kick off this holiday season right - with tacos, lots and lots of tacos!

Get Tickets

LAS CUATRO MILPAS GOING OUT OF BUSINESS: FAKE NEWS!

October 23, 2024Local WallyComment

By now we should know that you have to fact check things you hear on social media and the news. No, they are not eating the dogs and double NO, Las Cuatro Milpas is not going out of business. The story was posted on a San Diego blogsite and soon went viral but I am here to tell you that it’s fake news, totally untrue, and that the BEST MEXICAN FOOD IN SAN DIEGO will still be served at Las Cuatro Milpas for years to come. Hopefully forever.

For those of you who don’t know about this little hole in the wall joint it’s located at 1857 Logan Ave in San Diego, a not so touristy area of town. If Anthony Bourdain were still alive it would be the type of place he would love, a local non-touristy spot that simply puts out the best food possible at prices that seem like it’s still 1990. $5 for a Tamal floating in a bowl of rice and beans? Hot sauce that is authentically spicy and not watered down for gringos? A line of people grasping their cash like it’s their last dollar waiting for their spot at the counter to order? Yes, it’s cash only, no, there’s no frilly margaritas or booze of any kind, and no, it’s not the least bit fancy. But locals all know this is the place. Thank God it’s not closing.

So grab your cash (no credit cards, no venmo) and get in line and get ready for the best Mexican food, possibly the best meal, in all of San Diego. I love you Las Cuatro Milpas.

Del Mar Wine + Food Festival 2025: Bigger than Ever (Plus my GRIPE about the 2024 Event)

October 10, 2024Local WallyComment

The Del Mar Wine + Food Festival is COMING BACK n 2025 and you’re not going to want to miss it. Mark your calendars and block out the first week of OCT 2025 right now so you won’t be double booking the date once it’s announced. My educated guess is it will be OCT 4th and 5th, 2025, but it could be the weekend before or after. Look, just block it out and click this button below for updates.

Del Mar Wine Food Fest 2025

What is the del mar wine + food fest???

The Del Mar Wine + Food Fest features dozens and dozens of San Diego’s BEST restaurants and chefs along with plenty of top notch California (and beyond) wines all set out for you to sample. But don’t think this is like your standard “Taste of San Diego” street fair. At the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival you can expect gourmet bites that show off the skills and ingredients. Want to see?

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE DEL MAR WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL?

Two glorious days in the sunshine fields of the Del Mar Surf Sports Park, formerly known as the Del Mar Polo Fields. Rows and rows of booths handing out near full size portions of everything from Pastrami sandwiches to sushi, every plate is prepared with a sense of artistry and finesse that you don’t expect at a food festival. No no no, this is not like a Costco sample! And the people watching is nearly as much fun as the tastings.

file this under: my biggest gripe and complaint on the del mar wine + food festival

So much food, so much wine, so many beverages. I’ve been to many food festivals where the long lines led to a tiny “happy size” bite, sort of like getting one Skittle when you were expecting a handful. The Del Mar Wine + Food Festival isn’t like that. And that’s my biggest complaint - too much food! Too much wine!! Every plate was huge, big ole bites, giant portions, full size mescal margaritas, which meant that I either had to be super selective or eat until I was ready to burst.

OK, so I ate until I was ready to burst but next year I’m going to try a different strategy and not eat breakfast, not even a crumb. I might even resort to a salad the night before. I mean it, the food is so good that you will be bummed out when you have to pass up another bite of fresh sashimi or say “no thanks” to more BBQ’d waghu beef. Caviar? No, too stuffed. Damn it!

SPLURGE ON THE VIP TENT - YOU WON’T REGRET IT!

Seems like every event these days has a VIP tent and some are worth it, some are not. For the Del Mar Wine + Food Fest it’s definitely worth it starting with the fun vibe of a live band at the VIP Reception to the upgraded wines and food in the tent. Unlimited oysters that would make a hungry otter happy, all freshly shucked. Champagne, caviar, duck liver pate, it’s everything you wished it could be. Add to it the VIP restrooms (fancy), the VIP parking (nice), and just being a VIP if only for a weekend. I feel so special.

SUM IT UP, WALLY

I really like the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival. The site is huge and the crowds manageable so unlike some events where it’s like walking down the Midway at the Del Mar Fair on the Fourth of July, the Del Mar event is sophisticated and civilized. Lines are short - the longest line was for the insanely good ice cream and event that only took 5 minutes. Most of the booths were walk up ready with plates ready to go.

So mark your calendars and check back for when tickets go on sale. The Del Mar Wine and Food Festival is coming back in 2025 and you’re going to want to be there.

TEMECULA 2 FOR 1 PASS: $39 PER COUPLE, CHEAPER THAN GROUPON OFFER

October 9, 2024Local WallyComment

WHY PAY FULL PRICE FOR TEMECULA WINE TASTINGS??

Use the Priority Wine Pass to get discount deals all over Temecula. And guess what? I have it CHEAPER THAN GROUPON at just $39. Groupon charges $44.85 for the exact same pass - well, not exactly the same price because if you buy it through me you get my FREE CONCIERGE SERVICE where I can help you pick wineries and plan your itinerary. Get it on Groupon and you are on your own as they have no concierge service. Heck, they have no service at all!

HERE ARE ALL OF THE TEMECULA DEALS AS OF OCT 2024

Bel Vino Winery: 2 for 1 tasting (except Saturdays) ($18 Savings)

Cougar Vineyard & Winery: 25% off 90 minute tour, tasting and food pairing with reservation ($20 Savings)

Danza del Sol Winery: 2 for 1 Tastings and 10% off Bottle Purchases. ($25 Savings)

Falkner Winery: 10% off wine purchases

Long Shadow Ranch: Monday thru Thursday BEFORE 2pm receive $10 off purchase of TWO tastings and 20% off all bottles purchased. ($10 Savings)

Lorimar Vineyards & Winery: 50% off Wine Tastings Sunday through Friday (Saturdays excluded) & 10% off Pairings Food Truck and Wine Purchases every day (inclusive of wine by the glass and bottles) ($25 Savings)

Mount Palomar Winery: 2 for 1 tastings on Sunday thru Friday and $10 off tastings on Saturdays.

Masia de la Vinya: 2 for 1 Tasting and 10% Off Wine Purchases ($25 Savings)

Maurice Car’rie Winery & Ultimate Vineyards: Monday-Friday: 2 for 1 tastings Saturday-Sunday: $10 off regular price tasting, $15 off private wine tour & tasting Every day: 10% off wine bottle purchases ($25 Savings)

Monte De Oro Winery: 2 for 1 Tastings and 10% off wine AND bistro purchases! ($22 Savings)

Oak Mountain Winery: 2 for 1 Tasting and 10% off wine purchases ($20 Savings)

Poggio Leano Winery and Vineyard: Purchase two "Poggio Leano Wine Tasting for 5 tastings + Chef's appetizer" and receive a FREE bottle of our sparkling Bollicine. Valid Saturday and Sunday between 12-4PM. ($46 Savings)

Raul Ramirez Winery: 2 for 1 tastings Wednesday-Friday ONLY. 10% off wine purchases daily. ($30 Savings)

Ramona Ranch Winery: 2 for 1 tasting and 10% off Bottle Purchases ($13 Savings)

Wiens Family Cellars: 2 for 1 tasting ($30 Savings)

GET IT NOW

San Diego Wine + Food Fest: Baja Expedition 2024 - What to Expect, Worth It?

September 26, 2024Local WallyComment

Explore Baja with the San Diego Wine + Food Festival Special Event on Nov 7th, 2024

If it’s been a while since you’ve explored Baja, and I mean really explored it, then here’s your chance to experience the extraordinary wine and food scene of the Valle de Guadalupe. And I really do mean extraordinary with a food scene that rivals the best restaurants in Napa and wine that comes darn close, really close.

Wait - seriously?

Yes, seriously. The food scene has won some restaurants Michelin stars and the wines have gone from passable to incredible. Add to that the scenery and culture and you have an adventure that’s not to be missed.

Interested in a trip to Valle de Guadalupe but unsure where to start? Love Baja but don’t want to drive and not sure where to go? Then this tour is for you. San Diego Wine + Food Festival’s Baja Culinary Expedition - A Journey Through Michelin Guide Mexico 2024. The event is on Nov. 7th, 2024, from 8:30 AM and returning at 10:00 PM, and includes everything from transportation to wine and food Tickets are on sale now - here’s what to expect:

Start with seafood and Sparkling Wine at Conchas de Peidra
Savor an intimate Wine experience with the pioneer of Mexican winemaking, Hugo D’ Acosta.
Delight with a Stunning Al Fresco lunch under the trees at Damiana.
Sip the sparkling wines at Bruma Winery.
Finish with a magical culinary experience under a centuries old oak tree at Michelin star restaurant Animalón.

Animalón Restaurant in Baja: Photo Credit: https://agringoinmexico.com/2022/11/08/animalon-valle-de-guadalupe-50best/

IS THE SAN DIEGO WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL’S TRIP TO BAJA WORTH IT?

Absolutely worth it. For $623.50 per person you get a full day culinary experience into a side of Baja that few people will ever experience. Seafood, sparkling wine, gourmet lunch and tastings with the winemaker, more sparkling wine, and the grand finale, a scrumptious dinner at Michelin star restaurant Animaón. (Read the Michelin guide review here). You’d be hard pressed to do this on your own for less - and when was the last time you got to chat with the chef and winemaker and hang out with a new group of friends who all love wine and food the way you do? This is going to be so much fun.

In the end you’ll have a once in a lifetime experience that might be the best day of your life! OK, perhaps that might be an exaggeration but it certainly will be a day you’ll remember and talk about for a long, long time and your chance to explore the elevated luxurious side of Baja. Tickets are limited so book soon.

Learn more

San Diego Wine + Food Fest 2024: Twenty Year Anniversary Special Events announced! Nov 2-10

September 25, 2024Local WallyComment

San Diego Wine + Food Fest Celebrates 20 years!

I had a feeling that the 2024 SAN DIEGO WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL was going to be insane. After all, it’s the 20th anniversary and that’s not nothing. They just announced their headliners and events and let me tell you that they pulled out all stops to create a week long experience that’s going to blow you away.

For those of you who haven’t been to this event before the San Diego Wine + Food Festival is a week long “immersive journey into the world of gastronomy”. OK, that’s a mouthful so let me break it down. On Nov 9th there’s what’s call The Grand Tasting event held along the bay in the large grassy peninsula behind Seaport Village. You’ll find rows and rows of booths handing out glasses of wine and unlimited bites of gourmet food. This is the big event and here’s the link to get tickets. It’s possibly the best wine and food event in the country.

On Sunday, Nov 10th, there’s a smaller event held at the park in Liberty Station that’s just tacos and more wine and more drinks. That’s called The Grand Fiesta and is a favorite of mine, a low key and laid back afternoon with tacos, tacos and more tacos, live music, it’s a killer event and and feels so very San Diego. Tickets are a less expensive than The Grand Tasting making it a good event to attend if you just want to see what all the fuss is about. Take my word for it, you will love it. Here’s ticket info for The Grand Fiesta. I go to both events, they’re different but both super fun.

Headliners for the SD Wine + Food Fest 2024

But there’s more to the San Diego Wine + Food Festival other than those two main events. During the week are more events to keep your food and wine spirit indulged. This year features a blend of James Beard award winners, chefs of Michelin star restaurants, celebrity chefs and personalities from Food Network and Top Chef, and includes exclusive dinner events, special tastings, even an excursion into Mexico’s wine region. You’re going to be glad that your company still lets you “work for home” because you’re going to want to do all of these events.

This year’s roster includes culinary luminaries like Alice Waters, Elizabeth Falkner, and Mexico’s first chef to earn a Michelin star, Carlos Gaytán, and many more.

Here’s a calendar of everything happening from Saturday, Nov 2, all the way through the next weekend. You’ll want to check out the complete list but here are some of my favorites.

Love thy Neighbor(hood): Food and art exploration of Barrio Logan, Sunday, Nov 3. Ticket Info
Sabores Eternos Pairing Dinner: Six courses exploring the vibrant traditions of Mexico’s Day of the Dead - paired with wine, of course. Wednesday, Nov 6th, Ticket Info
Baja Culinary Expedition - Michelin Guide Edition: Tour Valle de Guadalupe’s most prestigious wineries and restaurants. Luxurious and delicious. Ticket Info
Amizetta Napa Valley Winemakers Dinner: Limited seating at the beautiful L’Auberge Del Mar Adelaide restaurant with bubbles, wine, and appetizers while mingling with the winemaker and somm Cristina Merrigan, followed by a meticulously crafted late harvest fall menu dinner that promises to elevate this to an evening to remember. Ticket Info
Mister A’s Tasting Experience: The OG of San Diego elevated dining, Mister A’s stunning views of the city are surpassed by this rare opportunity to experience Revana, a highly allocated California cult wine. Ticket Info

And there are more events, more neighborhood excursions cooking classes, caviar and bubbles, the list goes on and on. Want that complete list again?

Get Tickets

Let me close by saying that The San Diego Wine + Food Festival deserves to be on your calendar. Pick some events during the week and cap it off at The Grand Tasting and The Grand Fiesta and you’re living large, San Diego style!

Ray Isle (Author, The World in a Wineglass, Executive Wine Editor, Food & Wine Magazine,)
Maynard Llera (Kuya Lord, LA, 2024 James Beard Award for Best Chef: California)
Clarice Lam (Author, Breaking Bao, 2022 James Beard Award Semifinalist Best New Restaurant)
Carlos Gaytán (Hà, Playa del Carmen, Mexico, 1-star Michelin; Paseo, Anaheim; Tzuco, Chicago; Top Chef; Bocuse d’Or Team Mexico)
Anne McBride (Vice President of Programs, The James Beard Foundation)
Roberto Alcocer (Malva, Valle de Guadalupe and Valle, Oceanside, 1-star Michelin)
Charlotte Randolph (Inaugural Michelin Sommelier of the Year, co-owner of Californios, San Francisco, 2-star Michelin)
Matt Crafton (Winemaker, Chateau Montelena, Calistoga)
Danielle Nierenberg (President, Food Tank)
Ruffo Ibarra (Orix Restaurante, Baja, Bocuse d’Or)
Suzette Gresham (2-star Michelin Aquerello, San Francisco)
Travis Swikard (Michelin Bib Gourmand, Callie, San Diego)
Claudia Sandoval (Claudia’s Cocina, Master Chef Latino)
Kevin Gómez (North America’s 50 Best Bars 2024; Aruba Day Drink, Tijuana)
Jairo Villalvaso (Bocuse d’Or Team Mexico, Beef, Baja)
Cameron Ingle (Marisi, La Jolla)
Drew Deckman (1-star Michelin, Conchas de Piedra, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja + 31THIRTYONE)
Oliver Seki (Seki Restaurante, Baja, Bocuse d’Or)
Marcelo Hisaki (Restaurant Amores, Baja, Michelin + Bocuse d’Or)
Gerardo Carrera (Sabina Sabe; Oaxaca, #22 World’s Best Bars 2023)
Ewan Bennie (Young Blood; San Diego, #49 World’s Best Bars 2022)
Mawa McQueen (Mawa’s Kitchen, Aspen)
Ming Pu (James Beard Policy for Change Boot Camp Alum, Brooklyn and The Butcher, New Albany, IN)
Matt Vawter (James Beard Foundation Awards 2024 Winner Best Chef: Mountain; Rootstalk, Breckenridge, Colorado)
David Alarcon (Fuego Santo, Piedra Santa, Baja)
Esteban Lluis (Michelin Star 2024, Damiana, Baja)
Mairym Monti Carlo (Netflix, Food Network)
Hugo D’Acosta (Winemaker, Casa de Piedra, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja)
Lulú Martinez (Winemaker, Bruma Winery, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja)
Oscar Torres (1-star Michelin; Animalón, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja)
Javier Plascencia ( 2016 James Beard Award Nominee Best New Restaurant, 1-star Michelin, Animalón, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja)
James Trees (2020 James Beard Award Finalist Best Chef Southwest; Esther’s Kitchen, Las Vegas)
Juan Cabrera (Casa Tijuan, Baja)
Diane Moss (Project New Village)
Bob Kamensky (CEO of Feeding San Diego)
Jonathan Bautista (James Beard Foundation Awards semi-finalist 2023; Ember & Rye, Carlsbad)
Jiranan Tanvilai Mo, Eo Pitiwartarlai, JuMi Pitiwartarlai (Sovereign Modern Thai, San Diego)
Javier Caro (La Justina and Oja y Valle de Guadalupe, Baja)
Denise Grande (Solare Ristorante, San Diego)
Ken Cook (President, Environmental Working Group)
Mark Kropczynski (AAA Four Diamond; The US Grant Hotel, San Diego)
Gustavo Arellano (Los Angeles Times)
Danny + Dante Romero (Two Ducks, The Lion Share, Ponyboy, San Diego)
Eduardo Salgado (Food & Wine en Español’s Best New Chef 2024; ‘Emat, Baja)
Anthony Wells (James Beard Foundation Awards semi-finalist 2022; Juniper & Ivy, San Diego)
Reyna Venegas (Bocuse d’Or Team Mexico Manager; Rancho La Puerta, Baja)
Rev. Dr. Christopher Carter (Theology and Religious Studies, USD)
Stephane Voitzwinkler (AAA Four Diamond; Mister A’s, San Diego)
Miguel Angel Guerrero (La Querencia, La Esperanza, Baja)
Bernard Guillas (Maître Cuisinier de France)
David Sim (Kingfisher, San Diego)
Jennifer Gilmore (CEO of Kitchens for Good)
Clare Fox (Executive Director of Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Funders)
Martin San Roman (Former Bocuse d’Or Team Mexico; Dobsons, San Diego)
Carlos Esquivel (Corazón D’Petra, Baja)
Ian Ward (Ponyboy, San Diego)
Angelo Sosa (Tia Carmen, Kembara, Phoenix, Top Chef)
Josh Orr (Master Sommelier, Broadbent Selections)
Touré Folkes (Executive Director of Turning Tables)
Jaz Brisack (Union Organizer, Starbucks Workers United)
Emily Burgueno (Head Seed Keeper, Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel)
Beau du Bois (America’s Top 25 bartenders by The Daily Meal; Roma Norte, San Diego)
Jack Ford (Owner/Rancher; Taj Farms)
DuVal Warner (Ranch 45, Solana Beach)
James Montejano (Executive Chef, L’Auberge Del Mar)
Gale Gand (Food Network Personality, Two time James Beard Award Winner, Restaurateur, Author)

Locals Pick the 16 Must See Spots in San Diego!

September 23, 2024Local Wally1 Comment

Redfin, the real estate company that’s really hoping you move to San Diego, recently posted their TOP 16 THINGS TO DO IN SAN DIEGO. And to show they know what they’re doing they reached out to me and asked me my opinion. As the Original Local Guy for San Diego (I’ve been doing this since 1994) I have plenty of opinions on what to do and what not to do in San Diego and Redfin did a good job compiling some top picks. Read the Article here - Redfin’s Unique Things to Do in San Diego.

Can you see the monkey in the cliffs at Moonlight Beach? Can you unsee it?

From hanging out at Windandsea Beach to taking a gondola ride through the Coronado Canals, the Redfin list hits some good ones, some obvious ones, and some oddball ones (like the Cat Cafe). The thing is, San Diego is HUGE and diverse and there’s just so much to do and see that even locals like me have a hard time keeping up.

Every neighborhood has its own delights, it’s own local treasures., so if Redfin missed a few that’s to be expected There’s the secret swing in La Jolla with sky high ocean views, there’s the “mushroom caves” hike in Cardiff that used to be a cool secret hangout for teens that now shows up on way too many Instagrams, there are crazy Asian food options in the Convoy District that go way beyond sushi and dim sum, and there’s just tons of things to explore and discover that makes living here so much fun.

So thanks Redfin for getting this going. And locals, if you have any other suggestion feel free to add them in the comments below.

The 16 Must See San Diego Spots

San Diego Wine and Food Festival coming in November

Coming Soon: The Del Mar Wine and Food Festival…. and the san diego wine and food festival

Right around the corner are two of San Diego’s hottest and most popular events, The Del Mar Wine and Food Festival is Oct 2 - 7, 2024 and the San Diego Wine + Food Festival is Nov 2 - 10, 2024. Both are insanely great so don’t miss them - both feature Grand Tasting events which means rows and rows of booths handing out gourmet bites and premium wine.