Rumor has it that the humungous and often quiet Medgrill in Hillcrest may soon be taken over by its rear neighbor, The Ruby Room, an alley bar that attracts a diverse patronage with numerous fashion events and live bands. The expansion will supposedly result in a larger stage area and possibly a café section for late-night noshing. 1263-1271 University Ave.

It’s easy to completely overlook the new Syrah Wine Parlor in the Gaslamp District. And it’s a shame if you do. With an unassuming stairwell that leads from the sidewalk to below the Dakota Grill, this subterranean “parlor” offers a stay-awhile vibe replete with plush lounge seating, soft lighting, a large bar and cozy nooks. The wine offerings are extensive and not terribly inflated. Ditto for the beer and cocktail lists. Meats, cheeses and desserts are also available. 901 Fifth Ave., 619-234-4166.

Su-Mei Yu of Saffron in Mission Hills has introduced to her long-established menu several new seasonal items designed to “enhance health and spirit.” Among them: strawberry-watermelon chicken salad; herb-marinated salmon over fresh corn kernels; and a big selection of fruit smoothies incorporating homemade ginger ale. 3731 and 3737 India St., 619-574-0177.

Advisory committee members of the 2010 Guidelines for Americans may drop their level of daily maximum sodium intake from 2,300 milligrams to 1,500, according to the committee’s director, Dr. Eric J. Hentges. If so, that next can of Progresso chicken soup you eat will throw you more than halfway toward the limit.

Jixed address or tough economy? Likely both. The short-lived Mille Feuille Chocolates at Fifth and University avenues in Hillcrest has suddenly melted away. Since moving here in 1986, I’ve lost count of how many different businesses have blown through this corner lot. May the next contestant enjoy better luck.

The famed Casa de Bandini that operated for 25 years in Old Town until losing its lease in 2005, will re-emerge in July at The Forum in Carlsbad. Original proprietor Diane Powers promises that the new location will capture the same feel as the one in Old Town, with colorful décor, lush patio gardens, regional Mexican cuisine and, of course, those birdbath-size margaritas. 1901 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760-634-3443.