Nearly 50 restaurants and bars are taking part in Eat, Drink and the Freedom to Marry, an effort launched by a local subcommittee that supports the “No on 8” campaign. If passed, Proposition 8 on the November state ballot would ban same-sex marriage in California. The participating establishments will donate a percentage of profits they earn on Sept. 18 to Equality for All. They include Urban Mo’s, Baja Betty’s, Hawthorn’s, Viva Pasta, Sambuca, Hula’s, Lucky Buck’s, The Boathouse, Wine Lover, Inn at the Park and more. A complete list is posted on www.myspace.com/eatdrinkfreedom2marry.

Turkish-style dumplings, kebobs, spinach pies and spit-roasted meats are among the savory offerings at the recently opened Pasha Mediterranean Café & Grill. The menu encompasses a lengthy list of vegetarian fare as well as hard-to-find dishes such as imam firin (eggplant stuffed with veggies, garlic and pine nuts), etli borek (baked beef pies), sucuk (dried spicy sausage) and more. 3614 Fifth Ave., 619-294-4444.

The owners of Taste Artisan Cheese & Gourmet Shop in Hillcrest will lead consumers through a 90-minute tasting tour of France’s wines and cheeses at 7 p.m., Sept. 24. The class is $45 per person. Pre-registration is required. 1243 1/2 University Ave., 619-683-2306.

Mixologist Dan Gergurich of Savory Casual Fare in Encinitas introduces an autumn martini and drink list on Sept. 21, which taps into a bounty of seasonal ingredients such as pumpkin, cranberries, pears and late-harvest berries. The innovative drink menu is available starting at 4:30 p.m. In addition, the restaurant’s chef-owner, Pascal Vignau pairs coveted “B” Cellar’s blends from Napa Valley with small plates every Thursday through the end of the month. The tastings are $25 per person. 267 El Camino Real, 760-634-5556.

Limonz Gourmet Salads is a chic, new bistro in Pacific Beach, launched by brothers Juan and Bobby Pasalagua. The menu features more than a dozen inventive salads and dressings, plus hot plates, wraps and combos presented by executive chef Jim Davis. Many of the ingredients are organic. Clear bubble stools, metallic fixtures and bold colors set the tone for a sleek interior design that is unique to the neighborhood. 978 Garnet Ave., 858-605-0093.

Chef de Cuisine Brian Sinnott of 1500 Ocean in Coronado has teamed up with Mainely Lobster and Better Halfshell to present a four-course dinner that matches the freshest lobster catches of the season to a variety of Veuve Clicquot champagnes. The event will be held at 6 p.m., Sept. 17 at the restaurant, located in the Hotel Del Coronado. The cost is $130 per person. 1500 Orange Ave., 619-522-8490.