Restaurateur Tracy Borkum has dramatically transformed the long-established Laurel into an Italian restaurant called Cucina Urbana. Chef Joe Magnanelli remains, turning his attention to Mediterranean-inspired fare with numerous gourmet twists: Sloppy Guiseppes (lamb and pork sliders with roasted fennel); linguini with clams and “Fresno” chili; chorizo-stuffed squid, and more. The pizza selection is equally innovative, calling upon such ingredients as potatoes, toasted pecans and braised leeks. Cucina’s atmosphere is decidedly rustic, with lots of reclaimed products that include barn wood, antiques and “found objects.” Open for dinner only. 505 Laurel St., 619-239-2222.

Vegans are rejoicing over a new meatless, dairy-free restaurant that arrived recently in University Heights called Loving Hut. Opened last month, the full-service eatery belongs to an international chain and features items such as lemongrass “chicken,” vegan burgers, barbecued noodles and more. 1905 El Cajon Blvd., 619-683-9490

Burger Lounge opened its fourth grill last week in Little Italy, preceded by existing locations in La Jolla, Kensington and Coronado. The beef hails from grass-fed cattle that never spend time in corporate feeding lots. Turkey and vegetarian burgers are also available, along with salads, shakes and red velvet cupcakes. 1608 India St., 619-237-7878.

After putting its best foot forward in terms of food, wine, service and ambience, The Better Half Bistro in Hillcrest has, sadly, closed. Chef/owner John Robert Kennedy says that business became too erratic ever since the economy tanked in October. 127 University Ave.

Economic survival time was much shorter for Crescent Heights, which provided urbanites fine-dining refuge from the nearby Gaslamp District. The restaurant was owned by Chef David McIntyre, a protégé of Wolfgang Puck. No word yet on where McIntyre is setting his sights. 655 W. Broadway.

Downtown’s three-level restaurant and concert venue, Anthology, has brought in a new executive chef with a global resume. French-trained Eric Bauer last headed up the kitchen at Morel’s in Las Vegas after working at Four Seasons Costa Rica and other five-star properties around the world. A native of Chicago, his goal is to combine music with “a menu free of confusing foods with competing flavors.” 1337 India St., 619-595-0300.

Decanter Wine Lounge & Restaurant in Rancho Santa Fe will hold a series of “wine academy” classes at 6:30 p.m., every Wednesday throughout the month of July, beginning with “champagne and sparklers” on July 1. The succession follows with a wine-and-cheese pairing class on July 8; Wine 101 on July 15; and The Art of Wine Blending on July 22. Prices range from $15 to $50. For a complete schedule, call the restaurant. 18021 Calle Ambiente, 858-756-9333.

All three Wine Steals locations have extended the times on their happy hours through the end of this month. Customers visiting Wine Steals in Hillcrest, Point Loma and Cardiff, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays or from 4 to 7 p.m., on Mondays, can enjoy a select choice of wines at $4 a glass and Stone Pale Ale for $3 a bottle. And those ordering bottles of bubbly any day or time this month will not be charged corkage fees. Also, the Hillcrest location now offers its back room with no rental charge, seven nights a week, with a minimum purchase of $250 in food and/or wine. Reservations are required. 619-295-1188.