FoodHits the High Notes

Opera Santa Barbara knows that an Italian Passions Festival isn’t over until the fat lady cooks, to coin a phrase. That’s why its current festival, which runs through March 9 and presents Cavalleria Rusticana and Pagliacci and L’Elisir d’Amore, will also feature much to mangia. You could go to an Opera Night at Tre Luna on Coast Village Road on March 4 where cast members from L’Elisir will sing while you sup. Or before any performance, you could order a meal sure to be magnifico from Via Maestra 42 to enjoy at the Lobero (this must be done in advance). And if you are opera-phobic, sign up for a wine tasting and cooking class (March 1 and 8) in Santa Ynez, featuring Palmina wines, lunch at Trattoria Grappolo, and a cooking lesson by the restaurant’s acclaimed chef, Leonardo Curti.

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Opera Santa Barbara’s Italian Passions Festival takes place through March 9. Call 898-3890 or visit operasb.com.