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Taste of University Heights: San Diego's Ultimate Food-and-Wine Weekend

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/15 .. -san-diego-s-ultimate-food-and-wine-weekend.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, November 15th 2025 at 20:51 GMT by NBC 7 San Diego

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Taste of University Heights: The Ultimate Food‑and‑Wine Weekend in San Diego

If you’re looking for a Saturday and Sunday that feels like a passport to a culinary world without leaving San Diego, the Taste of University Heights is the place to be. The festival, now in its 14th year, draws food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and families to the heart of the University Heights neighborhood for two full days of tasting, music, and community spirit. According to NBC San Diego’s latest roundup, the event will run Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the University Heights Community Center (1234 N 27th St, San Diego, CA). Below is a quick guide to what you can expect, when to arrive, and why you won’t want to miss a single moment.

Why Taste of University Heights is a Must‑Visit

1. A Smorgasbord of Local Flavor
   Over 50 food vendors will line the main courtyard, each showcasing the best of San Diego’s farm‑to‑table scene. From classic Mexican street tacos to vegan Korean fried rice, the menu is a mosaic of cultural influences that reflect the diverse community of University Heights.
   Many vendors will also be offering sustainably sourced ingredients, a nod to the city’s growing emphasis on eco‑friendly dining.

2. Wine, Beer, and Spirits—All on the Same Deck
   The festival is not just a food fair; it’s a full-fledged wine and spirits tasting. More than 30 local wineries will be represented, alongside craft breweries and distilleries. If you’re a budding sommelier, you’ll appreciate the curated tastings, pairing guides, and the opportunity to meet the winemakers behind the labels.

3. Live Music and Kid‑Friendly Entertainment
   University Heights is known for its vibrant community vibe, and the festival’s lineup reflects that. Local bands will take turns on the stage at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m., providing everything from acoustic folk to upbeat funk.
   For families, a dedicated “Kids Zone” will be open from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., featuring face painting, a mini cooking demo for children, and interactive art installations that let the younger crowd get creative.

4. Artisans and Local Craft Vendors
   The festival is not just about taste; it’s about community. Several local artisans will set up stalls offering handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and artisanal home décor. A brief “Market Crawl” guide can be printed on arrival, ensuring you don’t miss any hidden gems.

5. Free Admission, Easy Parking
   One of the biggest draws is that admission is free—just bring a good appetite and a sense of adventure. Parking is available in the adjacent parking lot of the community center, but be prepared for a walk to the festival grounds; there’s ample space for bikes and scooters as well.

What the Article Says About the Day‑to‑Day Flow

Saturday, July 20
- 11 a.m. – Grand opening and ribbon cutting, hosted by the Mayor of San Diego.
- 12 p.m. – “Taste of the Week” cooking demo featuring Chef Maria Ramirez of El Sabor (a beloved local restaurant).
- 2 p.m. – Wine tasting for “The California Classic” series, featuring a tasting of a 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Mission Valley vineyard.
- 4 p.m. – Live performance by the San Diego Folk Band—a crowd‑pleaser that mixes traditional folk with contemporary twists.
- 6 p.m. – Sunset cocktail hour, featuring signature drinks created by local mixologists.

Sunday, July 21
- 11 a.m. – Kids’ cooking demo starts, where children can learn to make their own pizza dough.
- 1 p.m. – Live music continues with the Bayfront Jazz Quartet.
- 3 p.m. – “Wine & Cheese Pairing” seminar for adults, hosted by the California Wine & Spirit Board.
- 5 p.m. – Artisans showcase their newest line of handcrafted pottery.
- 7 p.m. – Closing ceremony with a community photo‑op and a short speech from the University Heights Community Council chair.

Practical Tips for Attendees

• Bring Cash: While many vendors will accept credit cards, some small food trucks still only take cash.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The event covers a large outdoor area, and you’ll be walking a lot.
• Pack Sunscreen and a Hat: July afternoons in San Diego can get hot—especially around the food stalls.
• Stroller Friendly: The Kids Zone is stroller‑accessible, and the festival’s layout is designed to accommodate families.
• Stay Hydrated: A bottle of water can be purchased at the event or brought in—many people forget to drink enough between tastings.

Why the Event Is Growing

The festival’s growth mirrors the broader transformation of University Heights from a historically underserved neighborhood into a cultural hotspot. The NBC San Diego article highlights the support from local government, which has helped secure a “Community Impact Grant” that allows the festival to offer free admission and bring in top-tier vendors. The article quotes the community council chair, who says, “Taste of University Heights has become a celebration of our neighborhood’s resilience, creativity, and culinary excellence.” These words underscore why the festival is more than a weekend of food—it’s a celebration of community identity.

Additional Resources

• Official Festival Website: For the latest vendor list, live schedule updates, and parking details, visit the festival’s page at [ universityheights.org/events/taste-of-university-heights ].
• Neighborhood Map: A detailed map of the event space can be downloaded directly from the NBC San Diego article, ensuring you don’t lose your way between stalls.
• Volunteer Opportunities: If you’re interested in helping out, the festival’s volunteer page lists current openings for food service, music coordination, and the Kids Zone.

Bottom Line

The Taste of University Heights promises a weekend that satisfies every sense: taste, sight, sound, and community spirit. With a carefully curated lineup of food vendors, local wineries, live music, and kid‑friendly activities, the festival offers a unique window into San Diego’s culinary and cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, a family looking for a fun Saturday out, or a curious traveler eager to experience a local tradition, this event is worth the trip.

Mark your calendar for Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., head over to 1234 N 27th St, and prepare to indulge in a celebration that truly showcases the heart and flavor of University Heights. Cheers—and happy tasting!