Romantic Skies and Sparkling Wines

It’s no surprise that Southern California is known for over-the-top culinary experiences. With flavorful cuisine, craft beer and urban wineries throughout, we are a mecca for fine dining experiences. However with so many options available, selecting the perfect venue for a special night out can be a daunting task—unless, of course, you have an event guru for a guide.

Nicole Osibodu is the CEO + Founder of Pink Pineapple Event Design Firm located in San Diego. Her focus and attention to detail have brought incredible events to life for her clients. Whether she’s designing her signature pop-up events or a well-connected corporate affair, Osibodu in an expert in delivering a full sensory experience through impeccable service and fun.

Known for finding the most elite venues and locations in San Diego, Nicole Osibodu is an expert at negotiating a one-of-a-kind location perfect for any party. As the holiday season rolls into town, take the well-crafted advice from Pink Pineapple’s expert hands and enjoy an experience that’s to die for! Whether it’s the exclusive line of burgundy wines at Donovan’s, the perfectly blended flavors at the Addison, or the new and incredible line of sparkling wines at Wilson Creek, your palate—no matter how sophisticated—will surely thank you.

Donovan’s Steakhouse

If steaks make your mouth water and your stomach growl, Donovan’s Steakhouse is a foremost choice. The chef uses only the best 2% of the cuts available—the proof is in each tender, juicy bite devoured by Donovan’s guests. Featuring a decadent menu of upscale seafood and classic side dishes, it’s impossible to make a poor selection. 

But steak alone didn’t place Donovan’s high on the culinary map; the restaurant also boasts an exclusive list of burgundy wines that went a long way to earn the prestigious Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. From Napa Valley Cabernets to Spanish sparkling wines, Donovan’s Steakhouse offers a wide variety of the finest drinks. Not knowledgeable about fine wines? No problem. The sommeliers at Donovan’s know how to find the perfect bottle for any occasion. "What makes Donovan’s great," says Osibodu, "is that the service team is extremely knowledgeable about the 350+ wines offered." With a strong depth of selection and a wide breadth of wineries throughout the world, Donovan’s perfectly pairs high-end steaks with elite wines.

Addison at The Grand Del Mar

The experience at Addison is nothing short of excellence as Southern California’s only Five-Star and Five-Diamond dining experience. While the food holds unbelievable flavors, the ambiance, service and worldly wine pairings are beyond words. So much thought and consideration goes into every detail––this must-visit locale showcases an intricately choreographed dance, each course a graceful pas de deux across your plate. "It’s an absolute must for your culinary bucket list," admits Osibodu. "[The food] is fantastic, and the plating… If I didn’t know any better, I’d [assume] they resurrected Picasso to construct the courses." The Addison’s French cuisine is blended with intense and balanced seasonal flavors, creating a menu that changes throughout the year. Guests can select a four-course meal from a limited menu or the Chef’s Tasting Menu (which is as unforgettable as it is unpredictable), wherein each course complements the next. 

What elevates the menu from delicious to divine is the restaurant’s premier world-renowned selection of wines. Each dish is expertly paired by the in-house sommelier who will take your taste buds on an international voyage through the finest vintages. Enjoy the richness of each course enhanced by Addison’s selection of velvety, robust and deep red wines.

Wilson Creek Manor

This exclusive property is the epitome of class and beauty. The Wilson family opened the luxury vineyard twenty years ago with the intention of producing great wines. With a new line of sparkling wines, Wilson Creek has a taste for every bud, and now their wines are permeating the world wide web. The winery has officially opened an online wine club for their line of sparkling wines, as well as one for their Variant Series White Cabernet and another for the Variant Series Cabernet Sauvignon. Looking for a recommendation? "I absolutely love the Peach Bellini," Osibodu gushes. "It’s crisp, light and fruity. Or, toast your next big event with the Almond Champagne." 

A recent addition to Wilson Creek is their estate property across the street from the winery, Wilson Creek Manor. The ambiance and atmosphere found at Wilson Creek Manor is ideal for any corporate event, retreat or conference. It’s easy to relish in every detail—impeccable views of the vineyard, wines that caress the palate, the sounds of the Temecula Valley washing over you—and disappear into the serenity of Wilson Creek Manor. 

No matter what your next outing may be—a romantic dinner for two, a staff retreat or a family celebration for the holidays—take a trip to one of these premier Southern California hot spots, and don’t skimp on the worldly wines. Take a look at how Osibodu and the Pink Pineapple team can create your next soiree.

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