Sample small bites and wine with today’s side deal: for $12, you get one ticket (a $20 value in advance) for Tasting Time at Octo Waterfront Grille on Columbus Boulevard. The event takes place on Thursday, August 5, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. You must be 21 to register for this event.

Tasting Time is a wine-tasting event for vino enthusiasts and young professionals at Octo Waterfront Grille, a new waterside restaurant that offers scenic views of the marina and Ben Franklin Bridge. With ample space for more than 400 attendees to gather under giant tents, guests will have opportunities to make new connections sans the aid of social-networking hoodoo while sampling six different wines and champagnes, complemented by various food selections from Octo’s seafood-rich menu. In addition to socializing with wine experts and intriguing strangers, vine disciples can enjoy the beautiful waterside surroundings or loudly talk about their boss's poor tie selection, only to find out he was standing behind them the entire time. During the event, you'll gain a rare chance to gobble up more of Octo's menu selections with a special 10% discount, and at the end of the evening, you'll get to take home your own souvenir tasting glass.