Who’s in town
Rock guitarist Pat Travers performs with his band. [8 p.m., Yoshi’s, 1330 Fillmore St., S.F.]
Lectures
Oil pipeline: Speakers discuss a proposed pipeline that would carry oil from Canada to U.S. refineries on the Gulf Coast, and whether it would result in energy security or energy disaster. [Noon, Commonwealth Club, 595 Market St., S.F.]
James Smith: The historian, discussing the former amusement park Playland at the Beach, is the guest speaker at the San Francisco History Association’s August meeting. [7:45 p.m., St. Philip’s Church, 725 Diamond St., S.F.]
Literary events
David Lebovitz: The pastry chef, whose books include “Ready for Dessert” and “My Life in Paris,” celebrates the 40th anniversary of Chez Panisse restaurant. [6 p.m., Omnivore Books on Food, 3885a Cesar Chavez St., S.F.]
At the colleges
Art reception: The San Francisco Art Institute hosts a reception for its new exhibit, “Transcultural Circumstances.” Art by Cat U-Thasoonthorn, Douglas Yee and Pallavi Govindnathan is on view. [5 to 7 p.m., 800 Chestnut St., S.F.]
At the public library
Mental illness: The San Francisco Mental Health Association hosts a panel discussion on mental illness and treatment. [6 p.m., Main Library, Latino/Hispanic Room, 100 Larkin St., S.F.]
Mexican history: “Celebrating Mexico” exhibit looks at Mexico’s 1810 independence from Spain and the 1910 Mexican Revolution. [9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Main Library, International Center, 100 Larkin St., S.F.]
Local activities
Candidate debate: San Francisco mayoral candidates take part in a debate. Topics include the economy. The event’s sponsors include the Potrero Hill Democratic Club. [6:30 p.m., International Studies Academy, 655 De Haro St., S.F.]
Piano concert: Noontime Concerts’ “Piano Month” series presents a concert by pianist Robert Schwartz, performing music by Chopin. [12:30 p.m., Old St. Mary’s Cathedral, 660 California St., S.F.]
Community dancing: Redwood City’s Dancing on the Square series presents an evening of community dancing. Today’s featured dance form: tango. [6 to 8 p.m., Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City]
Asian comics: The Cocky Asians comedy tour comes to the Punch Line. Comics Bradley Lum and Mark Zhang give their take on Asian culture, relationships and families. [8 p.m., Punch Line Comedy Club, 444 Battery St., S.F.]
Dining out
Citizen’s Band: Chef Chris Beerman’s menu features creative American fare, and the macaroni and cheese is recommended today. The dish includes baked macaroni and fontina, Sonoma dry-jack fonduta, crispy onion and shaved pecorino. The fried chicken, too, is highlighted. Buttermilk-battered California poussin is served with Mariquita Farm escarole, Pinkie’s biscuits, and red-eye gravy. [1198 Folsom St., S.F.; (415) 556-4901]
