My Persian Table event at A La Lucia, Aug. 1

A La Lucia owner and chef Michael Nayeri is hosting a second rendition of his “My Persian Table” menu on Aug. 1. The five-course menu will take diners on a tour of Persian cuisine ranging from appetizers to a fish course, a meat course and dessert. Wine pairings are optional. 315 Madison St. $70. Reservations recommended.

Port City Brewing Oktoberfest Release Party, Aug. 2

Sure, the sun may still be beating down with intense ferocity and you may be working in one last beach weekend before school starts again, but Oktoberfest is right around the corner, and Port City is prepared with the release of its popular Marzen-style lager. The brewery opens at noon for an all-day celebration of Oktoberfest in August. Das Pretzel Haus will be on site with traditional pretzels to add a little heft to the launch. 3950 Wheeler Ave. Noon-10 p.m.

Mozzarella Fest at Cheesetique, through Aug. 11

Del Ray’s premier cheesemonger is giving patrons a peek behind the cheese-making curtain with a focused multiweek tour of all things mozzarella. From a “Mozzarella, Etc.” class to special menu items (Caprese smashburger, anyone?) to a Negroni cocktail to wash it all down, Cheesetique is rolling up its sleeves and getting into the stretchy, gooey thick of things. 2411 Mount Vernon Ave.

Alexandria Restaurant Week, Aug. 16-25

Summer Restaurant Week is a time of celebration for restaurants hailing from all corners of Alexandria. From Belle View’s Dishes of India to Shooter McGee’s in the West End, from North Old Town’s Hank’s Pasta Bar to Hops n Shine in Del Ray, there’s a menu and a location for every palate. Thirty-five dollars gets you a three-course meal or dinner for two at dozens of Alexandria’s eateries, but plan ahead and make a reservation — most restaurants do book up.

Second Annual DRP Wing Fest, Aug. 17

Do you have what it takes to win the Wings of Doom Hot Wing Eating Contest? Or are you just a wing aficionado with nothing to prove? Either way, Del Ray Pizzeria is celebrating both wings and those who love them with its second annual Wing Fest. Expect half-price wings at the parking-lot party (as well as inside the restaurant all day), and $10 pays your way into the contest. Three craft breweries – Firestone, Vasen and Stone – will offer up specialty beers to cool off your palate. 2218 Mount Vernon Ave. 3-7 p.m. $10 for contest entry.

Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at hope@kitchenrecessionista.com.