Award-winning chef Matt Gordon of Urban Solace and GW Restaurant Group has peered into his crystal ball to make a few predictions about the kind of foods we might be eating in restaurants next year. “Big and gaudy are out,” he says, referring to dishes that he believes will become more simplistic, with only dashes of “haute techniques” to enhance their quality and presentations. Expect to also see more “adventurous” meats on menus, such as frog legs, pork belly, beef cheeks and game birds. “Fusion cuisine,” he adds, “is also on its way out,” as chefs will begin experimenting further with such veggies as celery root, parsnips, turnips and brussels sprouts.

The East Village location of Lotus Thai has introduced a happy hour for fans of dim sum, offered from 5 to 7 p.m., daily. The special menu features 10 items priced at $5 and less. They include assorted steamed dumplings, chicken pot stickers, northern Thai sausage and more. Draft beers cost only $3, and premium Thai beers and select wine and cocktails cost $5 apiece. 906 Market St., 619-595-0115.

Chef Anthony Sinsay of Harney Sushi came away with $50,000 in cash and prizes from last Saturday’s Grand Tasting at Embarcadero North, which was part of the sixth annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival. Sinsay was awarded “chef of the fest” for various preparations of kabocha, a Japanese squash that he incorporated into pana cotta, malty truffles and puff pastries.

Honors also went to Executive Chef Deborah Scott of Island Prime/C Level, who won in the festival’s Tommy Bahama Rum Mixology Competition for her mistletoe martini.

And if an award existed for “strangest food sampling” at the Grand Tasting, it would go to Cein Anos, a Tijuana restaurant that served the crowds fried cricket tacos.

Taste Artisan Cheese and Gourmet Shop in Hillcrest is saying “thanks” to its customers via their palates with an afternoon holiday soiree that will feature cheese and dessert samples, plus other giveaways and a mac-and-cheese judging. The event will be held at the shop on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 3 to 5 p.m. 1243 ? University Ave., 619-683-2306.

A new mixed-use studio building in Golden Hill has brought in Counterpoint Wine Bar, which offers beer, sandwiches, salads and cheese platters in addition to a growing selection of global wines. The bar’s phone number isn’t yet published, but we’re told that the doors are open for business. 830 25th St.

Winos are also flocking to The Wine Pub on Shelter Island, which opened earlier this month and presents its grand opening with free wine, beer and food on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 4 to 7 p.m.. Stacked stone and natural lighting provide a warm urban feel. Soups, salads, sliders and other appetizers are available. 2907 Shelter Island Drive #108, 619-758-9325.