Thursday, March 1

Chef Russell Jackson from Lafitte will be hosting a Lunch Break for Schools fundraiser, from the makers of Hidden Valley®  Salad Dressings and the American Culinary Federation, at Lafitte (Pier 5 Embarcadero). It aims to raise money to support Chefs Move to Schools. His entire menu is set to feature Hidden Valley Ranch, including a Hidden Valley cocktail and Hidden Valley infused ice cream. So strange that we admit we're intrigued. During lunch hours only. 500 The Embarcadero, Pier 5, 415-986-4806

The Mission's Pica Pica empanada stop will start doing beer nights this year. Their first is coming up this week, which sees them teaming up with Napa Smith Brewery's master brewer Don Barkley, who will release a limited special edition beer. The brew blends in late harvest Semillon grapes and a barrel-aged imperial porter. It'll be going for $6 a glass from 6 to 8 pm. 401 Valencia Street, 415-400-5453

Monday, March 5

Smuggler's Cove is teaming up with Wo Hing General Store for a unique night called the Wo Hing Tiki Night. Wo Hing's chef de cuisine, Michelle Mah is adding to the restaurants regular menu a special pu pu platter starring Dungeness crab rangoons, fried duck liver rumaki and much more. The cocktail menu is mostly underwraps, but Smuggler's Cove's owner Martin Cate is creating six exotic drinks from the Tiki era's glory days. 584 Valencia Street, 415-552-2510

The Cheese School of San Francisco is offering a new class entitled "Europe's Finest Cheese," meant for serious cheese lovers who've never met a cheese they didn't like. It'll help you hone your palate and have you impressing your local cheesemonger on your next visit to the cheese counter. And of course, no cheesemaking class would be complete without wine. They'll serve two wines to complement the cheese. Grab tickets here. 2155 Powell Street, 415-346-7530