In France the term “mille feuille” refers to multiple layers of puff pastry filled with creamy custard. In Hillcrest it’s the name of a much-anticipated chocolate and pastry café due to open by the time this goes to print. Renowned pastry chef Thomas Gérard of Lyon, France is at the helm of fine truffles, cakes and neoclassic French patisseries, presented in a bright and sophisticated atmosphere. The store also features lunch sandwiches, wine pairings, daily high teas and (hoo ha!) confectionary buffets on weekends. 3896 Fifth Ave., 619-295-5232.

Work is underway on a 5,000-square foot warehouse on 30th Street that will become Mosaic Wine Bar, slated to open in November. Owner Shanna Decker, a former financial controller and stay-at-home-mom, says the bar will feature niche wines, high-end beers and space for both valet and self parking. A retail section will also be incorporated into the blueprint for purchasing wines to go. The food menu will start off with meat and cheese platters before progressing into heavier, warm appetizers a few months after the bar opens. “Mosaic will be a little upscale with a simple, warm motif,” Decker said. 3422 30th St., www.mosiacwinebar.com.

La Mesa’s “antique row” makes way for GIO, a 7,000-square-foot restaurant that opened last week in the former and historic Drew Ford building. GIO encompasses a retro café, a wine bar and lounge, a mezzanine for live entertainment and an expansive outdoor patio. The restaurant is the brainchild of La Mesa native Gabe Giordano, who appointed Chef John Medall to create an accommodating lineup of traditional breakfasts, lunches and dinners served daily. 8384 La Mesa Blvd., 619-462-9100.

The San Diego chapter of the California Restaurant Association presents SummerBash 2008, from 6-10 p.m., Sept. 10, at Humphrey’s By the Bay. The public event pays tribute to those who work in the local culinary scene, from restaurateurs and chefs to servers, bartenders, vendors and others. More than 20 restaurants will supply hors d’oeuvres as guests enjoy live tunes by Steely Damned, a 15-piece tribute band to Steely Dan. Admission is $20. Proceeds will benefit San Diego State University’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program. To purchase tickets, call 619-297-8200. Humphrey’s is located at 2241 Shelter Island Drive.

After some delay, the Caribbean-inspired Mangu Restaurant has opened its doors in the Gaslamp District with a menu of high-end island fare presented by Chef Elijah Duncan. The interior design is distinguished by shell materials, ostrich leather booths, a waterfall and modern art from local artists, and Duncan’s exotic dishes bow to a lengthy wine list plus aged rums and scotches. 524 Island Ave. No phone number listed.