Cooking instructor Mary “Cooking With Klibs” Dralle was among those exhibiting bean ideas at the 2014 Lima Bean Festival at the San Dieguito Heritage Museum. (Photo by Laura Groch)

Some very local goings-on in this post, starting with:

— Encinitas’ San Dieguito Heritage Museum, which is hosting its 7th annual Lima Bean Festival from noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26. I’m helping judge the entries in the cooking contest, which is always a fun part of the festivities. But it’s not all about the beans, though — there are other attractions, including a plant sale, silent auction, kids games and tours of the historical Teten House. Come on by and taste-test (from 12:30-2:30 p.m.) the different concoctions dreamed up by area chefs, amateurs and professionals. And they have come up with some interesting items. Lots of soups, stews, chilis and dips, of course — but also brownies, cookies, ice cream and one of my favorites from a couple of years back, a bean-filled fried wonton. Tickets are $20 for adults ($15 if you buy in advance) and $5 for children 12 and under.Get advance tickets at the museum, 450 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024, email sdheritage@sbcglobal.net, call 760-632-9711, or order online at http://www.sdheritage.org/limatickets.php. Maybe I’ll see you there!

— San Diego’s Restaurant Week is also coming up, starting Sunday, Sept. 20. All of San Diego County has plenty of restaurants participating, from high-end to casual, and North County is fully represented, inland and coastal, by such restaurants as 333 Pacific in Oceanside, Market in Del Mar, Casa de Bandini in Carlsbad, Intertwined in Escondido, Solterra in Leucadia, Blue Ribbon Artisan Pizzeria in Encinitas and many more. This is a bargain-hunter’s chance to check out a place you’ve never tried — or to revisit a favorite — at an excellent price. Check out the full list at http://www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com. Happy eating!

(c) copyright 2015 Laura Groch