



More than just popcorn at the movies: The Outdoor Cinema Food Fest, for your viewing –- and tasting -– pleasure, kicks off May 28 with a screening of "There's Something About Mary" at the L.A. State Historic Park (a.k.a. the Cornfield). New food trucks will be introduced every week at the event's rotating locations with trucks such as Nom Nom, Vizzi, Lake Street Creamery and Frysmith, which will be featured at the upcoming event. The season runs through Sept. 3. $10 per person. 1745 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, outdoorcinemafoodfest.com.

Rustic rendition: On May 30, another "Rustic Mondays" dinner is in store with Fraîche's executive chef Benjamin Bailly at the restaurant's Culver City location. Working alongside guest chef Jason Fulilove from the Curious Palate, each chef will present his interpretation of a rustic dinner in the form of a three-course meal. Guests witness the chefs perform in an open kitchen setting and get to pick and choose their appetizer, entrée and dessert from either Bailly's or Fulilove's menu. $35 per person. 9411 Culver Blvd., Culver City, (310) 839-6800, fraicherestaurantla.com.

When in bloom: Nestled in northern San Diego, Keys Creek Lavender Farm produces more than two dozen varieties of lavender. Come May, when lavender is in full bloom, the farm opens its doors to the public for free walking tours. Whether in a dessert, a savory dish or a refreshing cocktail, Keys Creek Lavender Farm owner Alicia Wolff recommends using organic English varietals such as Munstead, Hidcote or Royal Velvet (to name a few) when looking to include the versatile herb in cooking. Tours are every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m in May and June. 12460 Keys Creek Road, Valley Center, (760) 742-3844; www.keyscreeklavenderfarm.com.

-- Caitlin Keller

Photo: Fraîche restaurant in Culver City Credit: Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times