The Foodie Agenda: Our list of this week's culinary to-do's. Take our advice and check out one of these mouthwatering events, your taste buds can thank us later.
Saturday, May 11
Need an excuse to indulge your vices? Check out the unstoppable mix of chocolate and bourbon, a pairing hosted by the folks at Hog & Rocks and Dandelion Chocolates. Learn the skills of matching your drinks and desserts, an awesome skill to show off to all your friends after the fact. The event starts at 3:30 pm and costs $40 here. @ Hi Lo, 3416 19th St.
It’s not often that you get the opportunity to learn a chef’s secrets, but The Fifth Floor Restaurant’s chef David Bazirgan is cooking up more than dinner for the “Being Baz” event. Guests will get a chance to spend the day at the farmer’s market with Bazirgan, and learn about what goes into the meals he makes. The night ends with a cocktail hour, followed by a feast prepared from the day’s finds. The event is $225 /person call 415-344-3346 to reserve a spot.
Sunday, May 12 (Mother's Day)
For a full day of Mom-spoiling festivities, The Claremont Resort is offering a range of special meals at their restaurants, as well as relaxing spa treatments that are sure to have you feeling like a million bucks afterwards. Call 800-551-7266 @ 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley
Is your mom more of an outdoorsy type? The Marin Audubon Society is hosting the 50th annual Mother’s Day barbecue at Martin Griffin Preserve. With lunch, bird-watching, and hiking, this day will be an adventure. The lunch goes from 11 am to 3 pm, call 415-453-2216 for tickets. @ 4800 Shoreline Hwy. 1
Impress your mom with how in-the-know you are and make a reservation at Hopscotch, an American restaurant with Japanese influence in Oakland’s hot downtown. If you want to start your day off strong, try their Boozy Benedict Brunch. We're partial to the Wagonwheel, a cocktail of bourbon, maple syrup, hot coffee and scotch cream sure to wake you up. 510-788-6217 @ 1915 San Pablo, Oakland
Spoil your mom with brunch at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay where you can enjoy views of the ocean and listen to live entertainment while you sip on champagne. This lavish brunch is your ticket to pure luxury. Reservations required, 650-712-7040 @ 1 Miramontes Point Rd., Half Moon Bay
If you want to get out of town, head to Nick’s Cove for a brunch of seaside delights, like Dungeness Crab Benedict and White Prawn Enchiladas. Plus, this season’s sweet and delicious fruit jams are in for you to take home once you can’t eat another bite. Reservations are recommended 415-663-1033 @ 23240 Hwy 1, Marshall
Need an excuse for a day in Wine Country? Treat your mom to Mother’s Day brunch at Hurley’s in Yountville. Start the day with a glass of champagne and continue on with a few wine tastings nearby. Call 707-944-2345 for reservations. @ 6518 Washington St., Yountville
Tuesday, May 14
Itching to try something new in the kitchen? Get a taste for Morocco at the San Francisco Cooking School. The Moroccan Tagines class will teach you the spicy and delicious fundamentals of these deep and delicious stews. Dinner and wine are served with a kick! The class is from 6-10 pm and costs $130 here. @ 690 Van Ness Ave.
Friday, May 17
Take your foodie skills to the next level and join Skill Exchange at their Makeshift Society mixer. Be prepared to learn and share your top talents, all with a cocktail in hand. Time to be reinspired with help from locals like Fermenters Club and Project Juice. The event is from 7-9 and tickets are $16 here. @ 235 Gough St.
