Restaurateurs Pepe and Deborah Stepensky have opened Porkyland this week in the space formerly occupied by Viva Pasta. The eatery serves traditional Mexican fare from the country’s southern regions such as chicken nopal, pork verde and buche, which is meat used from the stomachs of pigs. There is also pork butt marinated in California chilies, known as pastor. Chips and tortillas are made on site and supply Porkyland’s other location in La Jolla as well. The Hillcrest dining room features black tables scrawled with Mexican poems and song lyrics, handpainted in white Sanskrit. 646 University Ave., 619-233-5139.

The “new” Big Mac introduced recently by McDonald’s takes the innards of the famous burger and tucks them into a flour tortilla, sans the bread and minus one hamburger patty. The result: An exact same flavor; a little creamier; and 330 calories opposed to 540 found in the classic sandwich. They call it the Mac Snack Wrap, and it sells for $1.49.

The owners of Yogart in Hillcrest have changed names to Latte Café, offering a new concept that augments its usual yogurt offerings with sandwiches, baguettes, bakery-fresh pastries and coffee drinks. An interior remodel ushers in a cozier feel with softer colors, loungy furniture and warmer lighting. Customers can also enjoy free Wi-fi. 1255 University Ave., 619-497-0307.

Jon Mangini, owner of BASIC Urban Kitchen in the East Village, is bringing his industrial-style digs to the heart of North Park with URBN Coal Fired Pizza + Bar. The operation is due to open in late April or early May within a large warehouse space. The food menu will be the same as BASIC’s – delicate-crust pizzas and organic salads – although the beer and wine lists are expected to offer different selections tailored to a neighborhood crowd. 3085 University Ave., www.rubnpizza.com.

More than 25 wineries throughout Temecula will open their cellars this weekend (March 6 and 7) to dole out barrel tastings on a number of different varietals produced in both new and Old World styles. “Passport” holders will gain access to the wineries as well as food pairings offered along the trail. The event, presented by World of Wine, will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., each day. The cost is $89 per person. Guests must be 21 years or older. To purchase tickets, call 800-801-9463 or visit www.temeculawines.org.

Taste Artisan Cheese & Gourmet Shop presents “Discover California!” from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., March 24. The class will focus on the state’s farmers and producers of artisan cheese, meats, produce and wines. The cost is $50. 1243 ? University Ave., 619-683-2306.