by Frank Mangio
The downtown San Diego night time scene grew up exponentially when real estate developer Howard Berkson, a Chicago businessman, who grew up with first class dinner show operations, decided to open Anthology recently.
“There’s a demographic niche in this town that wants a first class experience in food, wine, and music,” he said. “That’s what we provide with our renowned chef, Todd Allison and his farm-fresh menu, and three levels of unobstructed views of top musical acts, 6 nights a week with two shows nightly.”
The digital sound system is among the best I have heard. There are two bars and lounges for those who want just a cocktail or glass of wine. 300 seats for dining and many intimate booths, provide for the comfort of diners.
Warren Phelps manages the Anthology Supper Club and Todd Allison is Executive Chef
From unplugged solos to large bands, there is always an exciting array of local and national artists, playing blues, jazz, pop, classic rock and Latin.
On the night I was reviewing Anthology, their band featured vocalist Rebecca Jade, a sultry, smooth Jazz singer who’s emotional style and resume of San Diego appearances commands attention. Her debut CD is now out. Check it out at www.thejadeelement.com.
The menu of food and wines is second to none downtown. This night, Chef chose a grilled lamb chop as the appetizer. It was supported by roasted cauliflower, herbed spaetzle and a tzatziki sauce. An asian pear and wild arugula salad followed, laced with blue cheese, cranberry and pistachio pesto.
Anthology’s sultry “house” vocalist is Rebecca Jade, a smooth companion for dinner club patrons.
The main course was a roasted garlic-crusted tenderloin of beef, with grilled new potatoes, asparagus tips, with a black pepper bordelaise sauce. I left it up to the table manager for a wine choice and he came up with a 2007 Leal Meritage, perfectly balanced with 60% Cabernet, 23% Merlot, 11% Cab Franc and 6% Malbec.($50.)
Big time talent loves to play this intimate venue , so reminiscent of the 40’s and 50’s supper club scene in L.A., New York and Chicago.
The 13,000 square foot restaurant club extends vertically to three levels, including a mezzanine and VIP Dining Room. On the upper level there are indoor/outdoor spaces including a Fireside Lounge, outdoor Bayside Balcony and a private dining room.
Reservations are strongly recommended. Anthology is closed on Monday and open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30pm. Find out more at 619-595-0300 or visit www.AnthologySD.com.
Wine Bytes
§ San Diego Wine Company is planning a German Wine Tasting Sat. Aug. 27 from 11 to 4:30pm. $10. fee. Call 858-586-WINE.
§ Grape Stomp 2011 at Orfila Winery in Escondido is Sat. Aug. 27 from 4 to 8pm. $85. Admission includes wine tasting with appetizers, dinner buffet, grape stomping, music by Java Sounds, tractor rides and more. For details, call 760-738-6500 x22.
§ Bacchus Wine Bar and Market in the Gaslamp San Diego has their Anniversary Party Sat Aug. 27 from 5 to 9pm. Prepaid RSVP for $20. Call 619-236-0005.
§ Gen 7 Wines is having a new release party at Tommy V’s in Del Mar, Sun. Aug 28 from 2 to 5pm. Wine, food and fun are promised from winemaker and owner Tim Bacino. $50. pp. RSVP to theclub@gen7wines.com.
§ The Vault: Contemporary Art and Fine Wine is the name of a special event at the Hilton Bayfront Hotel downtown San Diego Sat Sept 3. from 6 to 8pm. Over 30 wineries are promised, with over 500 works of art from around the world. Cost is $25. ea., $35. at the door. For more, call 619-312-1212 or www.artsandiego2011.eventbrite.com.
§ The 2011 Sonoma Wine Country Weekend is Sept. 2 to 4. Winemaker lunches, dinners and BBQ throughout. Main event is a Taste of Sonoma on Sat. Sept. 3 from 11 to 4pm at McMurray Ranch in Healdsburg. All details 800-939-7666. Or check out www.sonomawinecountryweekend.com.
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