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1 week ago | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
When Marisi La Jolla opened in 2022, it introduced a new level of Italian fine dining to La Jolla Village. The space exudes vintage coastal glamour with beautiful art deco flourishes throughout. Guests can dine inside the stylish Lemon Room, at the marble bar, or enjoy the fresh ocean breeze on the patio or deck.
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3 weeks ago | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
Last June, I had the pleasure of touring Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in Napa Valley with Patrick Reilly, the winery’s trade coordinator, and winemaker Marcus Notaro, courtesy of Silvio Di Silvio, Antinori director of luxury accounts and education, who arranged the visit. I tasted through an all-star lineup that included Artemis, FAY, S.L.V., and CASK 23.
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Jan 20, 2025 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
When creating our Top 10 list, we usually focus on great value wines under $100. However, this year, with so many outstanding selections, I decided to create a premium list as a follow-up to our 2024 Top Ten. From wine festivals and elegant dinners to the premium Beyond the Cellar showcase at Torrey Pines and my Napa Valley trip, I’m sharing eight exceptional wines, with Frank contributing two more. These are outstanding wines perfect for special occasions.
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Jan 6, 2025 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
This year has been remarkable for Taste of Wine and Food. Reflecting on the past decade, I can confidently say 2024 has been a banner year. Frank, who founded the column 19 years ago, agrees it’s been one of the best yet. We had plenty to savor, from wine festivals and elegant dinners to the premium “Beyond the Cellar” showcase at Torrey Pines and my solo trip to Napa Valley.
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Nov 25, 2024 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
For wine lovers, Beyond the Cellar at The Lodge at Torrey Pines was an absolute delight. Held in the stunning coastal setting of La Jolla, this event brought together an impressive lineup of wineries alongside gourmet culinary offerings for an unforgettable evening. With world-class wines and dishes crafted by executive chef Kelli Crosson’s team, the experience was both indulgent and inspiring.
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Oct 28, 2024 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
The second Del Mar Wine and Food Festival was a huge success, surpassing its impressive debut. San Diego native and Food Network star Troy Johnson, known as a lead judge on Guy’s Grocery Games, set a high standard with last year’s event and exceeded expectations this year. The six-day festival featured immersive culinary experiences and sold-out dinners across San Diego, concluding with a two-day Grand Tasting.
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Oct 14, 2024 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
Restaurateur Javier Cuadra, born in Michoacán, Mexico, drew inspiration from his homeland’s rich culture and street food to open his own restaurant. While studying international business, Javier worked in the restaurant industry, which fueled his dream of showcasing Mexico’s unique cuisine in Orange County, where he noticed a lack of authentic Mexican street food.
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Sep 30, 2024 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
Vittorio’s proprietor, Victor Malgahaes, and executive chef Angel Gijon created a four-course wine dinner paired with Justin Vineyards wines. Sommelier David Sheline, sales consultant for Southern Glazers, and Elizabeth Moore, Justin’s San Diego sales manager, narrated the evening to a sold-out crowd. Guests enjoyed expert pairings and engaging wine discussions.
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Sep 16, 2024 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
For the past three years, I’ve hosted Keith Rolle, owner and winemaker of Gianni Buonomo Vintners, and Al Dorvinen, Giannia Buonomo’s wine club manager, at my home, Casa Cassoni, for our annual pizza pilgrimage. This tradition blends my passion for crafting authentic Neapolitan pizzas with their award-winning wines. Notably, Gianni Buonomo has been named the best San Diego winery by San Diego Magazine for six consecutive years. Making great Neapolitan Margherita pizza starts months in advance.
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Sep 2, 2024 | 
thecoastnews.com | Frank Mangio |Rico Cassoni
When The Butcher Shop Steakhouse announced Rombauer wine dinners featuring five varietals, it was clear that proprietor Sal Ercolano would sell out these events. Over two nights, guests were treated to an exquisite five-course dinner, each course expertly paired with one of Rombauer’s acclaimed varietals. Executive Chef Brian Gist and Rombauer’s Southwest Sales Manager, Mike Otto, worked seamlessly to create a dining experience both educational and delicious.
