Twisted Vine, San Diego

Twisted Vine Bistro's staff comprises a fifth-generation Italian vintner and two veteran California-born chefs who cultivate unpretentious epicurean experiences praised by Gayot and Thrillist. During tasting events, local winemakers mingle with guests and tie-dye tongues with fine red and white varietals, which tasters pair with locally sourced snacks from the eatery's menu. The topic of each cooking class rotates frequently, but all sessions allow amateur foodies to rub spatulas with classically trained chefs so they can finally ask an expert why their oven never seems to get their undershirts their whitest. Artwork forged by local artists decks the space, and elegant drapery pulls back to reveal ample windows, which stream sunlight onto green and orange walls.