World’s Fare

By Ida Rosenberg

Celebrity chefs, game-changing mixologists and the planet’s premier food and beverage purveyors are coming together to ensure this year’s San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival is the best one yet.

From November 18 through 24, the Festival is celebrating its gastronomically exhilarating 10th anniversary by presenting a collection of 25 events that will bolster the city’s burgeoning reputation as one of the world’s top dining destinations.

Everything from $500 glasses of whiskey to decadent edible art to a hands-on fish taco competition will whet whistles and discerning palates... and that ain’t just lip service. Here’s a taste of what’s in store.

The San Diego Classics: Fish Tacos & Craft Beers
Tues., Nov. 19 (6 - 9 p.m.)
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens - Liberty Station
Casual attire
Savor unique craft beers while the city’s top fish taco-makers battle it out to see who’s the best of the West.

SWISH: Serious Sips & Urban Eats - Burger Bash Edition
Weds., Nov. 20 (6 - 9 p.m.)
San Diego Public Market
Sophisticated casual attire
Top Chef All-Stars winner Chef Richard Blais hosts this exclusive party, where guests will mingle while enjoying Simply Naked Wines, Svedka Vodka and the city’s best handcrafted burgers from San Diego and celebrity guest chefs.

Pappy Van Winkle Tasting Experience
Thurs., Nov. 21 (2 - 4 p.m.)
Location veiled until purchase
Sophisticated casual attire
Experience the world’s most sought-after bourbons - including Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 year-old, the No. 1 whiskey in the world - during an exclusive tasting and bartending seminar presented by Imbibe Magazine.

Louis Latour Double 9-Year Vertical Tasting
Thurs., Nov. 21 (1:30 - 3:30 p.m.)
Marriott Marquis & Marina
Upscale chic attire
Sip exquisite wines and enjoy light victuals as Louis Latour president Bernard Retornaz walks attendees through each of the vintages in his company’s celebrated collection.

Grand Tasting Event
Sat., Nov. 23 (11 a.m. - 3 p.m.)
Embarcadero Marina Park North
Casual attire
The grand finale of the sizzling five-day Festival is the star-studded Grand Tasting Event, where 5,000 foodies savor offerings from 170 wine and spirit purveyors. More than 70 of the city’s most talented chefs and 30 gourmet food companies make this the region’s highest-caliber culinary showcase.

Timeless Beauty: The 10th Anniversary Celebration (presented by Stella Artois)
Sat., Nov. 23 (7 - 11 p.m.)
Marriott Marquis & Marina
Upscale chic attire
Help celebrate a decade of decadence at this over-the-top late-night anniversary party, where food fashionistas sculpt edible works of art. Their masterpieces will taste even more delicious when paired with Belgian beer, bubbly and craft cocktails - all set against an illuminating skyline backdrop.

sandiegowineclassic.com
If you’re a Citi cardholder, visit the event website for exclusive events and packages designed just for you.