Saturday September 15

Head up to Russian River this Saturday for a rare treat: the Slow Food’s Fresh Food Picnic featuring seasonal dishes prepared by local Bay Area food stars like Alice Waters, Nikki Henderson from Oakland’s People’s Grocery, Brandon Jew from Bar Agricole and many more. All those in favor of good, clean and fair food be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Historic Rancho Mark West Farm, Santa Rosa.

Monday September 17

Kick off SF cocktail week with the Akvinta Vodka Spirited Supper at Michael Mina. This promises to be a food and spirit pairing like none other, with mixology master Carlo Splendorini (recently named a Top 30 Under 30 by Zagat and the 2012 Domaine de Canton Bartender of the year) creating a signature cocktail for each of the three courses. Eat and drink your way through Michael Mina’s signature dishes like Ahi Tuna Tartare, filo-crusted tai snapper or a pluot “freezer pop” with lemon verbena consommé. Reservations are required. 6 p.m., tickets $100 per person, 415-397-9222, Michael Mina, 252 California St., San Francisco.

Are you ready for some Monday night football? How about all you can eat pizza and salad buffet for $15 plus all you can drink PBR on tap for $15? No joke, all you can eat pizza Mondays are back at Ironside. The best part about Ironside is it’s bustling and fun yet still retains its mellowness (and it’s not overrun with fratty fanatics). Grab some friends and head down to SOMA’s urban-industrial neighborhood eatery to cheer on your team. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Ironside, 680A 2nd Street, San Francisco.

Thursday September 20

Chef Alicia Jenish of the Grand Cafe continues her “Misfit Dinner Series” through September. Her current misfits of choice are often overlooked runty fowls that pack a flavorful punch. Ranging from squab, quail, partridge and poussin, each dish incorporates the bird in a classic French culinary technique. Think traditional approaches such as salting, curing, and even charcuterie. If none of that sounds appealing to your palate, never fear. The “Feast of Little Birds” is offered a la carte, in addition to the regular dinner menu. But for those who drool at the thought of fried quail, act fast. The menu is available through Sunday, September 23. Grand Cafe, 501 Geary Street, San Francisco.

Saturday September 22

Plate by Plate, a fundraiser for Project by Project, is back for another year—and bigger then ever as this celebration marks the 15th anniversary of the national nonprofit. The annual tasting benefit focuses on raising public awareness for issues related to the Asian American community. This year’s Plate by Plate will feature bites from over 25 different acclaimed San Francisco restaurants including Chaya Brasserie, 25 Lusk, and Piperade. Wash down the nosh with wine poured by sommeliers from top California wineries as you mix and mingle with the rest of the city’s philanthropists and bid on an extensive silent auction. Held at the historic Bentley Reserve, be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time. 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., 301 Battery Street, San Francisco.