Happy 10th Anniversary
Tucson's original Saturday farmers' market, held at Plaza Palomino (corner of Swan and Fort Lowell roads), features a variety of fresh produce and vegetables, seasonal fruits, wild Alaskan Salmon, ready-to-eat tamales, Mama Llamas empanadas, freshly roasted coffees, potted plants and flowers, hand-made scented soaps, fresh bakery and breads and much more. Musical entertainment adds to the fun on selected Saturdays. Winter hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with summer hours, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., beginning after Memorial Day.
Pinot Envy
The movie Sideways has done a lot to raise awareness of this intriguing varietal. Join Chef Alan Zeman to taste pinots from Oregon, California and France on Friday, May 20 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.; $35 per person, plus tax and gratuity.
Primavera Cooks Janos
It's that time of year when Tucson's finest independently owned restaurants once again nod their toques to local altruism. From May through September, wannabe chefs who contribute $200 work side-by-side with professional chefs to prepare a fundraising feast for friends who pay $100 (includes wine pairing, tax and gratuity). All proceeds benefit the Primavera Foundation, which for the past 23 years has been helping people in need with transitional housing and job training. The event kicks off at Janos on May 25. Call 615-6100 to make a reservation; 3770 E. Sunrise Drive.
Farewell El Greco's Grecian Gardens
Not many restaurants can claim a 31-year run. In 1974, Ptolemeos Kotzambasis and his family opened with a wildly popular spot on Sixth Street at Park Avenue. In 1994, they moved to a renovated location near Swan and Fort Lowell roads. El Greco's was famous for fabulous flat bread, donar kebabs and the best spanakopita in town (according to Greek cuisine connoisseur Chris Limberis). The property has been sold and is slated for offices.
