On the Plate: Upcoming Food and Wine Events

October 26: The Caffeine Question
Get a buzz at this upcoming class at Joe, The Art of Coffee, where Head Barista Erin Meister will guide you through a tasting of coffees with levels of caffeine. Learn how the type of coffee bean and brewing method affect a beverage's caffeine level, and discover the many misconceptions about caffeine. Reservations are required: call 212-924-7400, or e-mail joecoffeestore@aol.com. 7:30 PM, 141 Waverly Place at Gay Street, $10.

October 30: 5th Annual Iron Skillet Cook Off
Watch five New York City firefighter chefs – one from each borough – match up against the top chefs from five of the city’s best restaurants including Marc Murphy, Executive Chef/Owner of Ditch Plains & Landmark, and Brian Bistrong, Executive Chef of The Harrison, at the World Cares Centers annual fundraiser in support of its programs fostering safe and effective disaster response and resiliency within communities worldwide. 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Strata Restaurant, 915 Broadway at 21st St. Tickets $150 are available online at www.ironskilletcookoff.org or by phone at 212-563-7570 x201.

October 30 - November 5: Semana de los Muertos at Mercadito
All Mercadito locations (179 Avenue B and 100 Seventh Avenue South – Mercadito Grove) will feature a week-long “Semana de los Muertos” tasting menu from Monday, October 30th – Sunday, November 5th to celebrate Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), when the spirits of the dead return to the land of the living to eat, drink, and be merry. $30 per person; for reservations for Mercadito Avenue B call 212-529-6490 or Mercadito Grove call 212-647-0830.

November 1: Day of the Dead Celebration at Maya and Pampano
Even more celebrations for Day of the Dead at Maya and Pampano -- both restaurants will feature special menus for the occasiona and will be decorated in traditional ‘Day of the Dead’ decor, complete with an altar adorned with flowers, candles and skeletons. And don't forget the drink specials, including the Santa Muerte ($13): a concoction of reposado tequila and roasted pumpkin puree topped with champagne. For locations visit ModernMexican.com.

November 1: Vespa Day at Naples 45
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Vespa, Naples 45 will host "Vespa Day," where they will offer 50% off their pizzas along with a “paint-friendly” commemorative magnet to adorn the front panel of their scooter to anyone who drives a Vespa to their restaurant. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., 200 Park Avenue on East 45th Street.