Brian Malarkey did the Today Show, here’s the clip.  It’s a tough gig when you’re upstaged by a producer’s birthday.

Paris Driggers, not a chef, but a wine guy, left Winesellar & Brasserie to resume his business as a broker selling wines to restaurants and wine stores.  He started a small winery called Forgotten Barrel (using wines from well-known Napa vineyards)  and sells under the label Sika Wine.  For more information:  858-342-0298.

Aaron Martinez, chef de cuisine at  1500 Ocean at the Hotel Del Coronado just left  for a position in northern California.  San Francisco diners will find him at the Michelin two-star Coi–an opportunity he just couldn’t pass up.

Anthony Sinsay last week  left Harney Sushi after a good three year stint.

Aaron Martinez, the chef de cuisine at  1500 Ocean at the Hotel Del Coronado just left  for a position in northern California.

Anthony Sinsay last week  left Harney Sushi after a good three year stint.

Wade Hageman of the very successful Blue RibbonPizzeria in Encinitas (west of the I-5) will add another venue when he opens The Craftsman New American Tavern.  After Mother’s Day takes over the spot that is Savory Casual Fare also in Encinitas (east of the I-5).  Expect a late June/early July opening with a menu of “Hand Crafted Comfort” food emphasizing house made sausage, charcuterie, artisan cheese and Hageman’s farm to table approach with ingredients from local farmers, breweries and wineries.  Savory Casual Fare, 267 El Camino Real Suite A & B, 760-634-5556, Blue Ribbon Pizzeria, Lumberyard Shopping Center, 897 S. Coast Highway 101, Suite F102, 760-634-7671.

When Savory closes after Mother’s Day,  owner, Pascal Vignau moves to Chandler’s Restaurant in the soon-to-open Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa.

Go French for a week and dine at some of San Diego’s best:  The Marine Room, Vagabond, Bleu Boheme, Winesellar & Brasserie to name a few.  The Second Annual Tour de Cuisine (French Restaurant Week) runs from March 24 to April 1.  Click here for more information and to see the three-course menus.

The Red Door Restaurant & Wine Bar named Miguel Valdez, who has  been with the restaurant for a year and a half, their executive chef.  On April 4 and June 20, Valdez will accompany guests on a tour of the Mission Hills Farmers Market, buy ingredients for the dinner, then return to the restaurant to enjoy an inspired meal.  Four courses $45, with wine $70, and evening includes one of Chef’s recipes.  For information:  619-295-6000.