SWEET SIPS
If you go to Pechanga Resort & Casino, you likely cruise the high rollers room. But on Feb. 10-11, hit the jackpot with two indulgent experiences: The Chocolate Decadence event and the ninth annual Pechanga Wine Festival.
On Feb. 10, opt for the VIP experience at Pechanga’s Chocolate Decadence ($75) where an array of desserts and various confections will pair with more than 30 local wines. Remember to sip sparingly though. The next day promises an even more wine-centric afternoon. The Pechanga Wine Festival is open to VIPs from noon to 5 p.m. for $85. Wine enthusiasts will sip a wide selection of California-grown varietals while sampling bites from Temecula Valley’s most acclaimed chefs.
Proceeds from both events benefit a good cause. Habitat for Humanity’s “Brush with Kindness” program will use the funds to provide home repairs to senior citizens and others in need.
:: pechanga.com
HEART-Y NIGHTS
Monarch Beach Resort plans to celebrate the ladies with Gal-entines at Miraval Life in Balance Spa. The Feb. 3 gathering, hosted by celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann, invites you and your gal pals to enjoy cocktails and passed canapés such as port wine-infused pears with Gorgonzola and candied walnuts, scallop crudo with green papaya and soy-ginger vinaigrette, and goat cheese sun-dried tomatoes served on fresh baked olive bread. Plus Lippmann sends you home with a fabulous swag bag.
Spend every Saturday in February learning how to quench your sweetheart’s thirst for a well-made cocktail. Mixology Date Nights at Hotel Irvine’s Red Bar and Lounge gather couples for a series of hands-on demonstrations. Mix a variety of libations as you nibble on sharable plates with your expertly mixed cocktail in hand.
The Resort at Pelican Hill’s Coliseum Pool & Grill stimulates more than just your stomach this Valentine’s Day. Chef Oscar Fonseca presents his sensual Dinner of the Senses, which features a seven-course menu with his and her selections to be eaten by hand. The meal starts off strong with Osetra caviar garnished with gold leaf and coddled eggs mixed with creamy cheese fondue topped with shaved truffles. The dining room setting would not suffice on such a romantic evening, so the dishes are served alfresco in a private poolside cabana.Ooh la la. Advance reservations are recommended.
Up in the Club
Adrenaline hangs in the air as the crowd waits for galloping thoroughbreds. As they thunder around the historic Santa Anita racetrack, the air is peppered with hints of rich brown dirt and the anticipation of a big win.
For decades, there were traditionally only two seating options: cramped private boxes or huddled with the masses in the stands. Now horse lovers have a new place to roost. The 100 to 1 Club at Santa Anita perches guests three floors above the track’s first turn.
A seven-month remodel overseen by LA-based Studio Antares added terraced seating, hexagonal windows and throne-like banquettes to the club. The open-air space is flooded with sunlight complete with panoramic views of the action below and a private bar. The 100 to 1 Club is the latest space to be unveiled as part of Santa Anita’s ongoing multimillion-dollar renovation. :: santaanita.com
