Neighborhood Watch

Cantina Wins Bloody Mary Contest; Absinthe Offers Two Prix Fixes; and More

Union Square: Cantina barkeep Shahir Misif took home the prize of Best Bloody Mary at Sunday’s second annual Bloody Sunday contest at Scala’s Bistro for his very simple Cara Mia — Skyy vodka, Campari, tomato juice, fresh lime, and muddled green olives. [Grub Street]
Also, there’s a big Scotch tasting brought to you by The Whisky Shop on September 21 at Farallon, with Ian MacMillan, Master Distiller at Tobermory, Deanston, Ledaig and Bunnahabhain. Call 415-989-1030 to reserve a spot. Tickets are $75.
Hayes Valley: Absinthe chef Adam Keough is offering two prix fixe special menus in the coming weeks. From September 5 to 8 he’ll be doing a three-course menu ($65) of highlights from that James Beard House dinner the team did last month. And from September 12 to 15 he’ll be doing a three-course menu ($55) of dishes inspired by a recent stage in France and travels in Basque country. [Grub Street]
SoMa/Downtown: Eddie Rickenbacker’s (133 2nd Street), which closed and changed hands in June, is being taken over by Rick Howard, who’s previously given facelifts to the Owl Tree and Bruno’s. [Eater, Earlier]
Marina: At the former Marina & Kebab (2257 Chestnut), there appears to be a wine bar and bistro moving in. [Eater]

Cantina Wins Bloody Mary Contest; Absinthe Offers Two Prix Fixes; and More