Big Gay Ice Cream Brings Saucy Stories to SF; Celebrate One Year of Oakland's AlaMar

OAKLAND— Celebrate one year of restauranthood with Uptown Oakland's alaMar. They're hosting a birthday bash with live music, passed hors d'oeuvres, a welcome glass of sparkling wine and other goodies. The party takes place Friday, May 1 from 5 p.m.-11 p.m.; snag a ticket to the party here. [EaterWire]

NOE VALLEY— Omnivore Books will host Bryan Petroff and Douglas Quint, co-owners of NYC's Big Gay Ice Cream truck for a chat about their unique business. The talk will be moderated by Humphrey Slocombe's Jake Godby and include a special ice cream treat. Their book, Big Gay Ice Cream: Saucy Stories and Frozen Treats will be available for purchase. The event is Sunday, May 3 from 3 p.m.-4 p.m.; admission is free. [EaterWire]

MISSION— Help local community-driven projects get off the ground, while enjoying a nourishing bowl of soup. SoupSF awards micro-grants to artist initiatives or community projects; donate $15, eat some soup and vote on one of four individuals or teams who will present their projects (which could be a community garden, a farmer market or any project that makes the community a better place). The next event takes place Sunday, May 3 from 6 p.m-8 p.m. at the Red Poppy Arthouse. [EaterWire]

UNION SQUARE— Chef Charlie Palmer, besides becoming an increasingly prolific restaurateur in the Bay Area, is now an author. He's teamed up Omnivore Books to host a book signing for his new book, American Fare, at Burritt Room + Tavern. The signing includes a book, snacks from the cookbook and wines from William Hill. The event takes place Tuesday, May 5 from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; buy tickets here. [EaterWire]