Who’s in town
Singer-songwriter Ani DiFranco performs at the Fillmore. “Which Side Are You On?” is her latest studio album. [8 p.m., 1805 Geary Blvd., S.F.]
Lectures
John D. Kuhns: The financier, industrialist and author of “China Fortunes” discusses his pioneering adventures in China’s energy trade. [6 p.m., Commonwealth Club, 595 Market St., S.F.]
‘Cottage food’ laws: Speakers discuss a proposed law that would allow individuals to sell some types of food produced in home kitchens directly to consumers. [6:30 p.m., 18 Reasons, 3674 18th St., S.F.; RSVP: www.spur.org/sellingfood]
Closing the gap: “Can Technology Successfully Assist Our Schools in Closing the Achievement Gap?” is the topic of an education and technology panel talk. [7 p.m., Woodside High School, 199 Churchill Ave., Woodside; www.peninsulacollegefund.org]
Jack Tillmany: The local historian speaks at the San Francisco History Association’s meeting. “The Theatres of Mission Street and the Trolleys That Took Us There” is his topic. [7:45 p.m., St. Philip’s Church, 725 Diamond St., S.F.]
Literary events
Barb Stuckey: The specialist in the taste of food talks about “Taste What You’re Missing: The Passionate Eater’s Guide to Why Good Food Tastes Good.” [6 p.m., Book Passage, 1 Ferry Building, S.F.]
Epicenter series: Litquake series features touring authors in conversation at Tosca Cafe. Novelist Adam Johnson (“The Orphan Master’s Son”) and Litquake’s Jack Boulware are tonight’s guests. [7 p.m., 242 Columbus Ave., S.F.]
Terry Bisson: The editor, joined by friends, talks about David Gilbert’s “Love and Struggle: My Life in the SDS, the Weather Underground, and Beyond.” [7:30 p.m., Green Arcade, 1680 Market St., S.F.]
At the colleges
Burton Richter: The Nobel Prize-wining physicist discusses critical climate change issues and his latest book, “Beyond Smoke and Mirrors.” [5:45 p.m., Fromm Hall, University of San Francisco, Parker and Golden Gate avenues, S.F.]
At the public library
Shakespeare troupe: The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival’s touring company presents an hourlong version of “Macbeth,” followed by a Q-and-A. [6 p.m., Koret Auditorium, Main Library, 100 Larkin St., S.F.]
Local artists: The program looks at works of art in the Fine Arts Museums’ permanent collection that illustrate the history and culture of the Bay Area. [7 p.m., Anza Branch, 550 37th Ave., S.F.]
Local activities
A taste of paradise: Macy’s 66th annual Flower Show, a showcase for top floral designers, is on display through April 7. “Brasil: Gardens in Paradise” is the theme this year. [10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Stockton and O’Farrell streets, S.F.]
Reggae show: Jamaican reggae singer Michael Rose performs at the Independent. [9 p.m., 628 Divisadero St., S.F.]
Piano recital: French pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard appears in recital, performing works by Debussy, Schumann, Liszt and Kurtag. [8 p.m., Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., S.F.]
Stand-up comedy: Comedian Mike E. Winfield performs at the Punch Line. “Comics Without Borders,” “ComicView” and “Live at Gotham” are some of his TV credits. [8 p.m., Punch Line Comedy Club, 444 Battery St., S.F.]
Dining out
Anchor & Hope: Thai ceviche with rock shrimp is a highlighted appetizer. Halibut with saffron Meyer-lemon puree and English peas over spring-onion truffle vinaigrette is recommended. [83 Minna St., S.F.; (415) 501-9100]