Here, find a curated list of the best food and drink events in Santa Cruz County for the coming week. At the top, I share my picks of unmissable local happenings.
Pino Alto, the restaurant arm of Cabrillo College Culinary Arts & Hospitality program, is hosting a summer BBQ on Saturday. Like all of the meals at Pino Alto, the food is prepared and service is provided by students in order for them to gain real life experience in the industry. Each $60 ticket includes starters, fresh baked rolls and cornbread, grilled entrees, sides and salads, three desserts and alcohol-free beverages. Plus, find lawn games and music by the patio bar.
Tomorrow, Home Restaurant in Soquel is partnering with winemaker Sam Smith for a special five-course meal. Smith sources his wines for his label, Samuel Louis Smith, from cool-climate vineyards on the Central Coast, and his bright, expressive wines will be paired with chef Brad Briske’s local and seasonal cuisine. The dinner is served in the back garden at the restaurant, and Smith will be there to talk about his winemaking ethos. Tickets are $200.
Saturday, July 6
- U-PIck at Live Earth Farm | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM @ Live Earth Farm | $10
- Winemakers Dinner | 5:00 PM – 10:00 AM @ 3101 North Main Street Soquel | $200
- Petal and Plate | 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM @ Aptos Vineyard | $38
- American bbq and picnic | 3:00 PM- 8:00 PM @ 6500 Soquel Drive | $60
Thursday, July 11
- Farmstand | 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM @ Cowell Ranch History Hay Barn
- Throwback Thursday | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM @ Big Basin Vineyards | Free