The Hive Is Throwing a Party for Oakland's First Friday; Ravi Kapur Is SF Mag's Best Chef of 2015

OAKLAND— The Hive is debuting some of the soon-to-open members of its community at this month's First Friday celebration. They're hosting a block part featuring food from Calavera, beer and pizzas from Drake's Dealership and late night haircuts and shaves from People's Barber (because getting a haircut after drinking is always a good idea). Live music from Alphabet Soup (that's a band, FYI) will serve as a backdrop for eating snacks from Calavera like grilled corn with lime mayo, queso fresco and chile, halibut ceviche and tacos. Get a sneak peek at all the Hive-related action from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. on Friday, August 7. [EaterWire]

SAN FRANCISCO— San Francisco Magazine released its Best Chefs of 2015 issue this week, naming Ravi Kapur of Liholiho Yacht Club the winner of their titular trophy. Of his menu, the chef said "The heart of it is just being delicious and fun." And spam lovers take note: there's an off-menu spam dish that shouldn't be missed. [SF Mag]

OAKLAND— Palmento a Dopo, the new, Sicilian iteration of Dopo, will host winemaker Alberto Graci for a special dinner on Wednesday, August 5. The menu will feature dishes that specifically reflect the food of the Catania region (Mount Etna in particular), alongside an exclusive pairing of Graci's wines. The dinner will take place form 5 p.m.-10 p.m. at the restaurant; reservations not required, but recommended. [EaterWire]

MISSION— The Cheese School is upgrading their weekly Wednesday happy hours on the first Wednesday of every month— this month, it'll be a special paella cooked in the hearth of their courtyard, along with other Spanish-style bites and sangria to wash it all down. The $40 price of admission includes a drink and plethora of snacks. This month's happy hour takes place Wednesday, August 7 from 5:30 p.m.-8 p.m.; tickets for sale here. [EaterWire]