Taste Artisan Cheese & Gourmet Shop in Hillcrest has begun carrying Venturelli-Denk pastas produced at the ancient Morelli Pasta Factory in Italy, in operation since 1860. The noodles contain both semolina and wheat germ for richer texture. Flavors include red chili, green olive and plain. Other Morelli varieties will be available for sampling at a free demo tasting, to be held from 3 to 5 p.m., Dec. 14, at the shop. For more information, visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1093.

For those who have grown tired of the same ole shredded beef in meat tacos, Casa de Pico in Grossmont Center has introduced “picadillo,” a novel blend of ground sirloin, chopped potatoes, onions, chilies and fresh garlic. The picadillo can be requested in tacos and chimichangas. For more information, visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1093.

A company in New Jersey, Redpoint Bio Corp., will soon introduce a new, low-sodium salt substitute called Betrasalt, which offers a less bitter and metallic taste than other salt substitutes. The product supposedly retains the same preservative and flavor qualities as table salt, or sodium chloride, and is expected to be found on grocery store shelves within two years.

The new Bing Crosby’s Restaurant and Piano Lounge in Fashion Valley mall offers “country club style” dining in a 1930s Hollywood atmosphere. Owned by Dudam Sports and Entertainment, the San Diego venture marks the restaurant’s third location, replacing the Crocodile Café. Photos from Bing Crosby’s personal collection from his days of hobnobbing with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are found throughout the restaurant. Live piano music takes place nightly, along with live swing music every Wednesday evening. For more information, visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1093.

More than 150 restaurants throughout San Diego County will offer three-course meals for $20, $30 or $40 apiece from Jan. 11-16. Now in its fifth year, the twice-annual event requires no tickets or passes. Consumers can simply peruse online the participating restaurants and their menus before planning their visits. Advance reservations, however, are recommended. For more information, visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1093.