The former Gilman Brewing tap room is now Union Jack. The "Union Jack" name comes from the 19th-century, notoriously rowdy bar of the same name that once existed across the street (Downtown Pleasanton used to be known for its 13 watering holes, and when the old Union Jack building was demolished 2007, it marked the end of an era). However, under the talented hand of Guyanese chef Maurice Dissels, the new Union Jack is about as far as you can get from a problematic dive bar. The elegantly minimalist facade and obligatory British phone booth on the adjacent patio sets the tone for the new Union Jack. Its menu thwarts the stereotype of tasteless British cuisine and elevates pub fare to a savory, well-seasoned variety of tempting bites. It's not a surprise: Maurice really knows what he's doing - he also runs the popular Caribbean/South American restaurant Oyo, just up the street. The British Pub vibe at Union Jack came to him a bit out of the blue, but dovetails nicely with his upbringing in British Guyana.

It is always a good time when Mark Duncanson is running an event. If for no other reason than to spend a little time around his amazing energy, this is an event to check out.