A piece published Oct. 9 in the New York Times Magazine profiled The Linkery in North Park as one of the few restaurants in the country that practices a no-tipping policy. The article focuses on the pros and cons of such policies, citing Linkery owner Jay Porter as a proponent of the system, and Ken Cassinelli of nearby Apertivo as a staunch opponent. The Linkery builds in a service fee of 18 percent, which is pooled and split among the staff. Porter claims in the article that his employees largely embrace the system. Cassinelli calls it “a big sham,” arguing waiters excel at their jobs when incentives are involved and the tips he earned waiting on tables for 30 years helped fund his restaurant. Pass the check, please.

Eclipse Chocolat has received its permit to serve beer and wine, resulting in “exotic chocolate happy hours” on weekdays. The promotion gives customers a free artisan truffle of their choice when they purchase an alcoholic beverage. www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1087

After a $25 million property renovation, L’Auberge Del Mar presents Kitchen 1540, offering farm-to-plate meals created by Chef Paul McCabe. The chic, new restaurant designed by renowned New York architect Andrew Kikoski replaces the former J. Taylor’s on the resort. White vaulted ceilings, an exhibition kitchen, modern table settings and private cabanas in the outdoor seating area are part of the redo. The restaurant opens on Nov. 4. www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1087

Year-round crowds at SeaWorld San Diego equate to whale-size amounts of food prepared in the park’s restaurants, cafes and what is considered to be the largest private bakery in San Diego County. According to park officials, visitors annually consume 120,000 slabs of ribs, 650,000 churros, 300,000 pounds of French fries, 40,000 Shamu cookies, and cha-ching, a staggering 1.3 million sodas! But a plethora of healthy alternatives exist as well, such as fresh fruit, salads, wraps and grilled fish and meats found at Rocky Point Café, Shipwreck Reef Café, Calypso Bay Smokehouse and at the popular Dine With Shamu tank-side buffet.

Anthology’s Motown Revue debuts at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 1, featuring a revival of greatest hits by such artists as Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Miracles and others. The three-level supper club offers an extensive menu of appetizers, entrees and desserts. New fall items include goat cheese soufflé, Australian duet of lamb, wild salmon, grilled filet mignon and more. Tickets are $15. www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1087