Mexican food fanatics and margarita lovers are invited to the launch party for local chef Shannon Bard, who is celebrating her debut cookbook, “The Gourmet Mexican Kitchen: Bold Flavors for the Home Chef.” Guests will sample appetizers from the cookbook and a raffle will be held offering the winner a signed copy of the book or a gift card to Zapoteca. Bard will be on hand to sign copies of the cookbook

WHEN: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday

WHERE: Zapoteca, 505 Fore St., Portland

HOW MUCH: $35 by reservation.

MORE INFO: zapotecarestaurant.com; 772-8242.