Sunday, October 14

This was so cool, we almost didn't want to share it with the Internet. But keeping something as awesome as "Waffletoberfest" a secret would just be plain wrong. This Lucky 13th pop-up is brought to you by Chrissy's Waffles & Biondivino Wine Boutique. Not only will there be fresh homemade waffles for sale (apple sausage and potato crumble anyone?) but a wine pairing and a prosecco cordial offering to boot. Cash only, 12-3 p.m., 1415 Green St.

Off the Grid: Picnic at the Presidio promises to bring you the best possible picnic experience possible. We know that is a bog claim, but it sounds like the folks from Off the Grid are giving it all they got. The impressive culinary lineup features talent such as Bar Crudo, Humphry Slocombe, Dixie, Nopalito, Mission Cheese and, of course, the brains behind the operation, Off the Grid. Seasonal cuisine like slow roasted lamb and grilled corn will be on the menu while artisanal cocktails will be delivered blanket side. Leashed animals and children are strongly encouraged (feel free to let the little tikes run wild). Free admission, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Main Post Lawn in the Presidio (directly across from the Walt Disney Museum, 104 Montgomery St).

Tuesday, October 16

If you're a writer who loves food, or a foodie who loves to write, then this event is for you. Every third Tuesday of the month, the SOMArts Cultural Center hosts Feast of Words: A Literary Potluck. At this intimate monthly dinner party, lovers of a good meal and a good read get together to eat, write and fraternize. But wait, there's more: Anna Pulley will be the featured columnist of the evening, and as always, guests can enter their "on-the-spot" writing to win edibles, books and other prizes. Tickets are $10 advance, $5 with a potluck dish, and $12 at the door. 7-9 p.m., 934 Brannan St.

Wednesday, October 17

Kevin Gillespie from Bravo's Top Chef Las Vegas will be at Omnivore Books to promote his new cookbook Fire in My Belly: Real Cooking. The recipes are designed to bring new life to Southern comfort food, and by the sounds of it, promise to make for a tasty good time. Pick up tips on how to wow your dinner guests with dishes like sage-battered mushrooms with cheddar fonduta and candied garlic syrup. 6 p.m., 3885a Cesar Chavez Street.

Thursday, October 18

In honor of the release of her new cookbook, Keys to the Kitchen: The Essential Reference for Becoming a More Accomplished, Adventurous Cook, Aida Mollenkamp will be at Hayes Valley Farm to meet fans and give a live cooking demonstration. The Food Network star will be signing books as well as mingling with guests--don't miss your chance to ask a pro how to make the perfect risotto. $50, 6-8 p.m., 450 Laguna Street. 

Sunday, October 21

Studio Gourmet is hosting a show at Bottle Cap in North Beach with the star of the show being Bottle Cap Chef and Owner Dane Baryta. The evening begins with a cocktail reception with light hors d'oevres and a specialty aperitif. A live culinary demo and interview by Chef Baryta will follow, along with a special 4-course dinner of spice-roasted pumpkin, duck confit, slow & low pro shoulder, and syrah grape sorbet all prepared by Chef Baryta and Bottle Cap cooking staff. If that isn't exciting enough, in honor of SF's Giants frenzy, buy your ticket before Sunday and save $20! $80, 5:30-8 p.m., 1707 Powell St.