Datebook

Today

CIA Search: Admissions representatives from the Culinary Institute of America in New York hold a reception to answer questions and cultivate new students. Application fees will be waived for applications submitted today. 6 p.m. The Ebell Club of Los Angeles, 4400 Wilshire Blvd. (323) 931-1277. Enter through red door on west side of building. Free.

Thursday

Hors d’ Oeuvres: Learn the art of the great starter, from simple to ambitious. In this hands-on class, make grilled Brie and pear sandwiches, shrimp satay and more. Wear comfortable shoes and an apron. 6:30 p.m. The New School of Cooking, 8690 Washington Blvd., Culver City. (310) 842-9702. $68.

Wine Tasting Seminar: Four California vintners present more than a dozen wines at this seminar and tasting sponsored by the Wine Assn. of the Duke of Bourbon liquor store. 7:15 p.m. Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard St., Woodland Hills. (818) 887-4800. Call the Duke of Bourbon to sign up at (818) 341-1234. $36.

Saturday

Inside Mocha: Art historian Nancy Um takes us inside Mocha, the fabled Red Sea port--now a ghost town--which once supplied all the world’s coffee. Author Timothy Castle, a past president of the Specialty Coffee Assn. of America, will discuss the Mocha-chocolate connection and the Mocha-Java blend. 10:30 a.m. Mark Taper Auditorium, Los Angeles Central Library, 630 W. 5th St., For information call the Culinary Historians of Southern California at (213) 228-7101. Free.