Ralph’s in Hillcrest is undergoing a major renovation that will result in expanded meat and produce sections to accommodate more organic products, plus a larger wine inventory and bigger bakery department. In addition, the service deli will become a “bistro,” where customers can purchase from a carving station prepared prime rib, pork loin and turkey. The deli staff will increase, although there are currently no plans to reinstate a number system.

The company terms the new model, “Ralph’s Fresh Fare,” making it the fourth of its kind in San Diego County. Other locations that have received the upgrade are located in Carlsbad, Del Mar and Rancho Bernardo. The Hillcrest remodel is scheduled for completion on May 22, with a tentative grand opening planned for May 27. 1030 University Ave., 619-929-1074.

The Kentucky-based Wild Flavors Inc., announced last week that it has developed the first naturally-derived blue color additive suitable for food and beverages within the United States. The water-soluble substance is made from fresh fruit and reportedly offers a clean taste and smell. Once the patent is approved, expect to see brilliant blue in anything from ice cream and tortillas to spirits and soda.

Tickets are now available for the seventh annual Beer & Sake Festival, presented by the Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana (JSSDT). The event brings together Japanese sake connoisseurs and master beer brewers in an effort to showcase their talents to our region. Top sushi chefs from California will also be on hand for a live culinary competition that challenges their mastery of sushi making. The festival is scheduled from 6 to 10 p.m., June 25, at the San Diego Marriot Del Mar. Tickets are $60 per person or $40 for JSSDT members. They can be purchased online at japan-society.org.

Ballast Point Brewing Company will team up with the local, family-owned American Albacore for a four-course meal that pairs sustainable tuna with beer. The food menu features salad nicoise with tuna, a tuna melt sandwich on ciabatta from Cardamom Café, seared albacore loin and chocolate stout cake. German Pilsner Malt, Calico Amber Ale and Black Marlin are among the beers to be served for washing it all down. The event will be held at 6:30 p.m., May 5, at Sea Rocket Bistro in North Park. The cost is $35 per person. 3382 30th St., 619-255-7049.

Avenue 5 Restaurant and Bar in Bankers Hill has joined the brunch craze with a menu of signature and vegan selections available from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning May 2. Unique items include peanut butter pancakes, coconut-crusted French toast, Italian-style eggs in tomato compote and tortilla Espanola. Prices range from $7 to $14. 2760 Fifth Ave., 619-542-0394.