Orange Coast Magazine - October 2022

F A M I L I A R F A C E S S TA R AT N E W P O P U L A I R E

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arts

ARTS PREVIEW / NEW DEAN OF CLAIRE TREVOR SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

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What I’ll remember about my cancer treatment is how I was treated.

With next-day access to the highest-ranked cancer center in Orange County, you have the benefit of time and can be confident you are getting the most advanced care right here in your community. Our personal approach to your care starts the moment you connect with us, and it continues with every step of your journey. It’s comprehensive treatment, dedicated to your needs.

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Visit ucihealth.org/cancer or call 714-450-6103 to schedule a next-day consultation.

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Advertorial

An O.C. art museum unlike any other Where art meets nature, research and wellness You’ll feel inspired at the future home of UCI’s Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art. Situated near the intersection of Jamboree Road and Campus Drive in Irvine, the new museum will feature striking indoor and outdoor spaces that blend Langson IMCA’s art holdings with wellness programs tied to the nearby UCI Health–Irvine medical complex, innovative art research and tranquil views of the San Joaquin Marsh Reserve.

Anchored by The Irvine Museum Collection of impressionist art and The Buck Collection of modern and contemporary California art, Langson IMCA will draw renowned scholars, artists and researchers to its doorstep, as well as art lovers from Southern California and beyond. The new site will be designed as a multifaceted place for reflection, respite, learning and gathering.

Lee Mullican, Untitled, probably circa 1950, Oil on canvas, 24 x 20 in. The Buck Collection at UCI Institute and Museum of California Art, © 2021, Lee Mullican.

Langson IMCA is already an exciting community resource, partnering with numerous Orange County schools and presenting an array of exhibitions and programs at the museum’s interim location – 18881 Von Karman Ave. in Irvine – and various pop-up sites.

With its growing trove of artwork and connections to UCI’s rigorous academics, Langson IMCA promises to inspire newfound appreciation of art, culture, wellness and sustainability. The university expects to hire a design architect for the museum in mid-2023 and break ground in late 2024 or early 2025.

Community support is vital to this exciting project.

Discover how you can take part in this exciting new chapter of local art history.

Learn more at m.uci.edu/IMCA.

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Joseph Kleitsch, Red and Green, 1923, Oil on canvas, 36 x 40 in.

UCI Institute and Museum of California Art, Gift of The Irvine Museum.

No ordinary art museum Masterpieces of California art. Sweeping views of nature. Innovative art research.

All will come together when the Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art opens on the University of California, Irvine’s North Campus property, near the future UCI Health–Irvine medical complex. Completion of the arts facility — the only museum of California art integrated with a large research university — is a few years away, but the vision for this world-class showcase is already taking shape, thanks to a generous gift from the Langsons, dedicated trustees of the UCI Foundation.

Together, we’re creating a brilliant future for generations to come.

Join us at m.uci.edu/IMCA.

Rendering of sample Langson IMCA gallery for its new museum. Shimahara Visual for UCI.

8/24/22 4:11 PM

OCTOBER 86

‘ALL ROADS LEAD TO THIS ONE’

The new dean of UC Irvine’s Claire Trevor School of the Arts has spent her life battling to build pathways for herself and future students.

“The people I’ve met (in Orange County) are incredibly entrepreneurial, innovative, and freethinking, and it’s a great match for contemporary art.”

—HEIDI ZUCKERMAN, ORANGE COUNT Y MUSEUM OF ART CEO AND DIRECTOR. THE MUSEUM OPENS ITS NEW BUILDING, PICTURED BELOW, THIS MONTH.

BY ALIESE WILL ARD MUHONEN

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SEASON AT A GL ANCE

A look at performances, events, and art exhibits throughout Orange County this season, plus a list of local galleries

O N T HE COV ER

Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall

10 O RA NGE CO AST • October 2022

P H O T O G R A G H B Y J O S H U A W H I T E , C O U R T E S Y O F O R A N G E C O U N T Y M U S E U M O F A R T; F R O N T C O V E R P H O T O G R A P H B Y CRIS COSTEA, COURTESY OF SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS

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ARTS PREVIEW

After a cautious return in 2021, Orange County arts institutions are ready for a dramatic, full-force comeback.

The 2022-23 season promises sparkling performances, visiting global stars, national premieres, and a new, world-class venue.

Succeeding over time means seeing beyond the moment W H E N Y O U F I N D Y O U R S E L F N A V I G A T I N G A N E W R E A L I T Y, T R U S T A W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T PA R T N E R W I T H R A R E I N S I G H T, U N M ATC H E D E X P E RT I S E A N D P ROV E N ST R AT E G I E S TO H E LP YO U U N C O V E R N E W PA T H S F O R W A R D .

Find answers to your questions at northerntrust.com/orangecounty or call Mark Hardtke at 949-717-5523.

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EDITOR’S LET TER PEOPLE & PL ACES A scenic archway at Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens ’HOODS New food options take center stage near Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

PERFECT G E TAWAY Enjoy the abundant charms of La Condesa, Mexico City.

C U LT U R E P H I L E Chapman University dean and his bestseller, “Truly, Madly” O.C . E VENT S An air show, Harry Pott er concert, Halloween-themed activities, and more happening this month

12 ORA NGE CO A ST • October 2022

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ST YLE & HOME Handmade intention wheels from Ooh La L ūm

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S T Y L E TA L K WITH ...

Matt Vargas and Katt y Torres, owners of Santa Ana brand Funday Collective

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HOT SHOP A San Clemente photographer’s appointment-only showroom

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FINDS Dress art-forward with these collaborative pieces.

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ON THE MARKET An artistic home with a private studio and views of the ocean

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FOOD & DRINK Royale With Cheese from Populaire at South Coast Plaza

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5 QUESTIONS WITH ...

Nick Weber, chef at Populaire and Verdant, the cafe at the O.C. Museum of Art

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FOOD TRENDS Trivia nights liven the O.C. weeknight dining scene.

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MY O.C .

News about crazy food items is a welcome change.

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EXCURSIONS Annual festival honoring Elvis lures fans of all kinds this month.

INING GUIDE 144 DMinireviews, plus

Ojai Burger and the View Restaurant

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PERSON OF INTEREST Multitalented magician Naathan Phan of Anaheim

WEB EXT R A S

Jeoffrey Offer, chefowner of our Restaurant of the Year, Butcher’s House Brasserie, shows how to master a rack of lamb with roasted potatoes in Cathy Thomas’ kitchen. orangecoast.com /cathythomas Find your favorite in this roundup of fall-themed treats in Orange County. orangecoast.com /falltreats Check out photos from Orange Coast’s Whiskey Festival 2022. orangecoast.com /galleries

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Style Home

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Industry Expert Q&A: Kelly Ciulla of Sub-Zero Group West

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Las Vegas

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Cosmopolitan Las Vegas

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Grand Canal Shoppes

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Health & Wellness

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SM Interventions

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Clear Choice Senior Services

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Mahamudr Kadampa Meditation Center

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Resource Guide

OC Scenes 72

MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center Foundation Golf Classic

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Orange Coast’s Best of 2022 Party

Orange Coast’s Best of 2022 Party

14 Ora nge C o a st • October 2022

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EDITOR’S LETTER

M

y teenage daughter and I love going to musicals. She started young: We saw “Mamma Mia” for her 7th birthday. Her favorite?

“Either ‘Something Rotten!’ or ‘Come From Away,’ ” she says.

When I saw this season’s lineup at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, I couldn’t wait to tell her—she’s old enough to see “Book of Mormon” now! I also couldn’t wait to speak with Center President Casey Reitz. Not only are we getting shows on their first national tours—“Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” and, the one I’m most excited for, “Six”—but some of the most acclaimed musicals in history will return: “Hamilton,” the aforementioned “Book of Mormon,” and “Chicago.” How are we so lucky?

“I think the Broadway producers know we do a great job in presenting the shows and that they can access an exclusive audience here,” Reitz says. “Our production team gets you in quickly, puts the show up on its feet, and it looks fabulous. We also have 3,000 seats; it’s a bigger venue, and that matters for the economics.” He’s excited for this season, too. “The Broadway series across the board is fabulous. To go from ‘Hamilton’ to ‘Moulin Rouge’—which I haven’t seen before—to getting ‘Chicago’ and ‘Hairspray’ back, then ‘Frozen’ for the first time, and ‘Six.’ It’s jam-packed.”

In addition to a new musical, “North,” in the Family Series and the U.S. premiere of ABT’s “Like Water for Chocolate” in the Dance Series, the Center is launching two new genres: In Conversation and Headliners. “So much of what we’re trying to do these days is find ways to produce new work. We want to present genres or disciplines where we have gaps,” Reitz says. “The In Conversation and Headliners series appeal to me a great deal. If we can match the reaction we had with Kristin Chenoweth in the hall last year, that will be huge.”

The season is incredible countywide. And Orange County Museum of Art’s stunning new home opens this month (Arts Preview on Page 92).

O.C. is an arts mecca; get dressed up and indulge.

MS. AL AN GIBBONS

E D I T O R-I N- C H I E F

A G I B B O N S @ O R A N G E C O A S T.C O M

M Y F AV O R I T E T H I N G S I N T H I S I S S U E The food and atmosphere at Populaire are wonderful; I’m delighted the team there will open Verdant, the cafe at OCMA.

Orange County Museum of Art opens its new building this month with a 24-hour celebration. You’ll find me there for sunrise yoga.

PA G E 61

PA G E 94

16 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

The Barclay has many international stars coming this season. Alan Cumming? I’m in!

PA G E 102

SCR’s artistic director says to enjoy Outside SCR shows with flip-flops and a margarita. I did exactly that for “Million Dollar Quartet”—fantastic.

PA G E 104

illustration by M A R T H A N I P P E R T

d e t i m Li ! y l n O Time

Indulge in Your Favorite Fall Flavors Through the Month of October!

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18 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

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PEOPLE

PLACES

IN PL AIN SIGHT  T H E S C E N E The Ocean Terrace archway at Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente  G E T T I N G T H E R E The archway can be reached by walking toward the back of Casa Romantica through the Main Salon.  E X P L O R E R C R E D I T Sara Abghari @sarainsanclemente  B E H I N D T H E S H O T “My fiancé and I were admiring the Spanish-influenced architecture while learning about how the city came to life,” Abghari says.

“I took this photo as appreciation for the well-kept history and love for the city of San Clemente."

33°25'18.9"N 117°37'13.2"W

October 2022 • O R A NGE COAST 21

PEOPLE

PLACES ’ H O O D S

OPENING ACT

New food options—for people and their pets—are taking center stage near SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS. by Robin Jones

Ú G O O D TO KN OW

R A KU S U S H I

S U BV E G A N

E G G L XIII

PE TLIN G O

You can get nearly any type of roll you want at this new sushi and teriyaki spot, from spicy tuna and rainbow rolls to the deep-fried Las Vegas roll filled with spicy crabmeat, salmon, tuna, cream cheese, and jalapeno ($4.75 to $15.95). But the most intriguing items on the menu might be the sushi burritos—rice, cucumber, pickled cabbage, and crunchy noodles paired with proteins ($10.95 to $15.95)—perfect for graband-go meals. 3941 S. BRISTOL

This yearling sandwich shop is true to its name: Most of the menu is devoted to plant-based versions of classic submarine sandwiches ($8.95 and up), including Italian, corned beef, club, turkey, and meatball subs.

There’s also the veggie-packed Mother Earth, with avocado, arugula, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncini, and black olives. All subs pair well with the house-made strawberrymint or blueberry limeades ($4.95). 3930 S. BRISTOL ST.,

Shoppers can fuel up at this spot at the Collage Culinary Experience near Bloomingdale’s.

The short menu focuses on egg sandwiches, from the simple Los Angeles, with scrambled egg, American cheese, and spicy aioli ($8.75), to the intense Dallas, with egg, pulled pork, coleslaw, shishito peppers, and barbecue sauce ($11.75). Tater tots ($3.25 for a small) are a must; order the version with truffle oil and Parmesan cheese ($7.25) for a splurge. 3333 S. BRISTOL ST.,

This cheerful pet shop has everything you’d expect: a wall of colorful plush and chew toys, a selection of pet food, and a handful of other supplies such as dog carriers, leashes, and collars. But most dog parents come in for the treat bar, where you can mix-and-match dog treats and pay by the pound.

Don’t miss the fresh-baked seasonal dog cookies, cupcakes, and cakes. Preorder a cake, and they’ll decorate it to your specifications. 3901 S. BRISTOL

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22 ORA NGE CO AST • October 2022

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SUBVEGAN

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PLACES

P E R F E C T

G E T A W A Y

L A CO N D E S A , M E XI CO C IT Y

Make this neighborhood your home base for the big city. by Anastacia Grenda

24 ORA NGE CO AST • October 2022

M A K E Y O U R S E L F AT H O M E

Feel like a local when you stay at Casa Comtesse, a B&B housed in a 1943 mansion. The decor is eclectic Condesa chic in the seven rooms, each of which has a private bathroom ($39 and up).

Enjoy breakfast before heading out for the day, either exploring the neighborhood or taking one of Casa Comtesse’s tours to the pyramids of Teotihuacan.

At night, sample a drink at the B&B’s mezcal bar and relax in the landscaped courtyard.

D O G D AY A F T E R N O O N

Pick up an order of fresh churros from Churrería El Moro ($2 for four) and walk across the street to Parque México. This verdant park is a popular gathering spot in Condesa, especially for dog owners who bring their pups here to play in the dog park or chase balls in the Lindbergh Forum plaza. The urban oasis is also an ideal spot for quiet reflection: Stroll among the fountains and stop in the

ABOVE Casa Comtesse offers a tour to the pyramids of Teotihuacan.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JULIANA BARQUERO

L

a Condesa is the ideal spot for exploring sprawling Mexico City—a short walk to artsy Roma and a quick cab ride from Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul. But stay and you’ll enjoy the abundant charms of Condesa. The district is a dynamic mix of old and new, where historic buildings house fashionable boutiques, coffee shops, and art galleries. This month, the tropical lushness of the tree-lined streets erupts in a riot of color as golden marigolds and strands of vibrant papel picado herald the arrival of Day of the Dead.

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PEOPLE

PLACES T I P

F R O M

A

L O C A L

“Visit Taquería El Greco for Arab-style tacos, Mezcalería La Botica de la Condesa for a great variety of unbranded mezcales, and Nevería Roxy for old-fashioned Mexican ice cream and sorbet or Tepoznieves for more exotic flavors.”

—JACINTO BRISEÑO VALERO, CULINARY TOURIST GUIDE

RIGHT Be amazed by the Day of the Dead parade at Zócalo.

audiorama, a meditative space screened in by bamboo trees where you can relax in chairs made by local artisans and read a book from the little on-site library.

PERK UP YOUR MORNING

Cucurucho honors coffee growers throughout the nation by showcasing flavorful beans in ritualistic pour-overs meant to be savored in a bright space inspired by Japanese tearooms.

Order the Espresso con Panal de Abeja ($4), which is poured over a chunk of honeycomb in the bottom of the cup, for a sweet start to your morning. Buy a bag of beans to take home.

T R AV E L B A C K I N T I M E

At more than 1,700 acres, Bosque de Chapultepec is one of the largest urban parks in the world and one of the most important public spaces in Mexico City.

But it also has a rich historical legacy that dates back centuries to the region’s earliest settlers. Explore Mexico’s storied M AR K YOU R C ALE NDAR Created by Icon Fair from the Noun Project

past at the Museo Nacional de Historia (National Museum of History, $4.25), which is housed in the hilltop Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle), a landmark site in the MexicanAmerican War. The park is also home to the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) and its extensive collection of art and artifacts ($4.25).

TA C O S E V E R Y D AY

Exploring the neighborhood taquerias is one of the joys of a Mexico City visit. There are plenty of delicious discoveries to be found in Condesa, but start at Tacos Hola El Güero, a local landmark since 1968. The specialty here is the guisado taco ($1.15), with fillings such as chicken tinga or chorizo verde that are stew-like in consistency.

Once you’ve had your fill, take a stroll along the pedestrian median on Avenida Amsterdam, its oval route a remnant of its former life as a horse racetrack.

SU CASA IN CONDESA

Casa Decu Condesa takes design inspiration from its vintage art deco building and gives it a smart, modern spin. The 27 rooms and suites are light and airy; they’re also equipped with kitchenettes that are useful for longer stays ($125 and up). Take advantage of the rooftop deck, which has a gym area as well as a space for lounging and enjoying snacks while the sun sets.

BRING HOME A SOUVENIR

Save room in your suitcase if you visit what’s been dubbed the Condesa Design Corner at Atlixco and Fernando Montes de Oca. At Cardōn and Columpio, you’ll find men’s and women’s clothing with clean, simple silhouettes, as well as unique jewelry and accessories—all created by Mexican design houses. These shops bookend Mooni, a gallery that showcases emerging artists working in paint, ceramics, papier-mâché, textiles, and other media.

Nov. 1 and 2: Día de los Muertos happens now, and celebrations start in the days leading up to it, including the eyepopping Day of the Dead Parade that starts in the Zócalo.

26 O RA NGE CO A ST • October 2022

PAT I O P H O T O G R A P H B Y J A I M E N AVA R R O, C O U R T E S Y O F C A S A D E C U ; D AY O F T H E D E A D P H O T O G R A P H B Y F I L I S A N T I L L A N N

LEFT A light, airy vibe abounds at Casa Decu.

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S TA R- C R O S S E D

Dean of Chapman University Dodge College of Film and Media Arts chronicles the tempestuous romance of Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier in his bestseller, “Truly, Madly.” by Valerie Takahama

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tephen Galloway offers a penetrating, compassionate account of the 20-year relationship between Leigh, best remembered as Scarlett O’Hara in 1939’s “Gone With the Wind,” and Olivier, renowned for his performances as Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Henry V, and Richard III. Galloway deepens the portrait of their marriage with research into Leigh’s struggles with bipolar disorder and new knowledge about the illness.

What was the original spark for the project? Ú When I was 13, I was an actor in British theater in the West End, which was an amazing and magical world. This was the early ’70s and Olivier was like a god who just towered above everyone. It’s impossible to describe the extent to which he was this colossal figure in the world of British theater at that time. Almost 50 years went by, and I found out that the Victoria and Albert Museum had bought Vivien Leigh’s archive. At the time, I was the executive editor of The Hollywood Reporter, and I thought, this is an interesting article, let me go take a look.

Of course, you get into the archive and it has everything because she kept most of the letters, notebooks, papers. I very quickly realized that there’s a lot more here than just one article.

Why did the book become a portrait of what its subtitle calls “the romance of the century”? Ú There had been biographies, and some of them very good, about them as individuals.

A double biography would have been enormous. The more I looked at it, the more I 28 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

thought, this is the biography of a marriage. That was the challenge. How do you enter a marriage half a century later and make some kind of assessment?

Did they influence each other as actors? Ú I don’t think he would have been the actor he was without her and all the emotions he had to wrestle with—extreme love, extreme pain, betrayal, mental illness. And (Leigh) had intelligence. She would often be on set giving him ideas. She was extraordinarily well read, spoke many languages. I would have loved to have listened to one of their conversations about his work. We all know the influence he had on her work, and he directed her a lot. But what did she say to him? You always think people are either talented or they’re not. His talent grew. He really became a great Shakespearean actor around the time he started being with her.

Were there professional rivalries? Ú For two actors to be together, it’s an almost impossible situation. Careers

never go in sync. And you’re so vulnerable to rejection as an actor. A bad review, a role that you don’t get. Even if you love the person you’re with, it’s hard not to have that as a sort of mirror on your own life. I feel later he was very generous with her. He had “Wuthering Heights,” she had “Gone With the Wind” around the same time, but “Gone With the Wind” was bigger. She was never as big as he was again, and he made sacrifices to let her do

important work. He directed “A Streetcar Named Desire” in London. He didn’t want to do it; he did it for her. Then of course she won her second Oscar doing the movie. So I think he really believed in her and supported her. But again, nothing is in primary colors in a relationship; everything is shaded and has multiple layers.

You can both want to help and be jealous. That’s what you get with biography—you get the full complexity of human life. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

Community Comes Together When Chad Foster, Regional Director of Modern Woodmen of America, and his wife found out their good friend, and firefighter, was battling cancer, the region knew they wanted to do something to help.

Modern Woodmen’s defining difference is the impact made in the community, not just from a financial perspective.

— Chad Foster FIC, CFFM / Regional Director MODERN WOODMEN OF AMERICA

As a fraternal organization, the region has donated thousands of dollars to families throughout Southern California over the years, but this event was personal. Instead of handing a check to the family, the local region wanted to do more.

With the help of family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers, the community rallied together to donate gift baskets and make baked goods to prepare for a fundraiser. Local businesses found out what was happening and generously donated $4,000 worth of items to be raffled. It truly was a community effort.

On July 30th an estimated 200 residents of Laguna Niguel and surrounding neighborhoods came out to show their support. The evening was filled with food, baked goods, activities and even a visit from 6 different fire stations, which was a big hit with the kids!

After the event, the recipient’s family was touched, sharing, “We can’t express our gratitude with words alone, but we will say that we are feeling overwhelmed, blessed, grateful, and loved by all of our friends, family, fire family, neighbors, and complete strangers that displayed such kindness and generosity towards our family.”

Modern Woodmen’s defining difference is the impact made in the community, not just from a financial perspective. The fundraising goal was exceeded but what was even more impactful was how the community came together to serve someone who has dedicated his life to serving others.

Chad Foster FIC, CFFM / Regional Director

949.716.5156

23441 SOUTH POINTE DR., SUITE 110 LAGUNA HILLS, CA 92653

PEOPLE

PLACES

THROUGH OCT. 2 PACIFIC AIRSHOW

The largest air show in the U.S. runs over three days and features flight demonstrations from teams from across the globe. This year, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, celebrating the military branch’s 75th anniversary, take top billing, along with the aerobatic Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Watch from the beach, from a reserved seat on the pier, or from the Premier Club, which offers ticketholders free food and drinks. Huntington City Beach, pacificairshow.com

and didn’t truly discover jazz until she got to college, but soon after she won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and released her well-received debut album.

Her second album, “Linger Awhile,” came out in September. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org OCT. 2 THROUGH 23 “NINA SIMONE: FOUR WOMEN”

This play with music follows the trajectory of Simone’s life as she transformed from chanteuse to activist after the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. The show includes some of Simone’s most powerful Civil Rights anthems, including “To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” “Go Limp,” and “Mississippi Goddam.” South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org

DON’T MISS IN OCTOBER

Classical music, Halloween happenings, and more by Robin Jones OPENS OCT. 1

“PHOTOGRAPHY AND SEDUCTION: WILLIAM MORTENSEN’S L AGUNA BEACH”

Photographer William Mortensen, who ran the Mortensen School of Photography in Laguna Beach starting in the 1930s, was known for manipulating his images with pens, paint, pumice, and razor blades. Largely ostracized in his day and for decades after, Mortensen has recently come back into favor. This exhibit is 30 ORA NGE CO AST • October 2022

one of the only museum shows of his work.

Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949-494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org OCT. 1 SAMARA JOY

The youthful Joy sings with a sophistication that’s garnered her critical acclaim throughout the music industry. Born in New York, she grew up around gospel and R&B singers

OPENS OCT. 6 “INTERCULTURAL”

Interdisciplinary artist Sheinina Lolita Raj dressed in the traditional garb of women from countries around the world, including India, Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand for these self-portraits. She collaborated with two-time Grammy winner Nelly Furtado to create accompanying sound art, which is projected throughout the gallery space.

Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org OCT. 6 JANE AUSTEN’S “PRIDE AND PREJUDICE”

Aquila Theatre, a troupe known for its innovative interpretations of the classics, takes on the beloved story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. As the pair’s unlikely courtship unfolds and all the Bennet sisters journey toward their own happy endings, the satire gently mocks the social expectations of Regency-era

PHOTOGRAPH BY ZACHARY CRESPIN

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PEOPLE

PLACES OCT. 1

PACIFIC WINE & FOOD CL ASSIC

More than 30 restaurants and food vendors will be on hand, including Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, Descanso, LSXO, and Lido Bottle Works. Along with small bites, foodies can sample local wines, craft beers, and cocktails while wandering the grounds and listening to live music. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, pacificwineandfood.com

England with witty dialogue. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-8544646, thebarclay.org OCT. 6 AND 28 CULINARY COOKOUT ON THE COAST

Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949-240-2000, exploretock.com /ritzcarltonlagunaniguel OPENS OCT. 8 “13 WOMEN”

Marking the grand opening of the Orange County Museum of Art’s new building and the institution’s 60th anniversary, this exhib-

it celebrates the artists whose work put the museum on the map. The show, which will be presented in two rotations, highlights pieces by pioneering female artists such as Barbara Kruger, Mary Heilmann, Alice Aycock, and Joan Brown in a nod to the 13 women who founded the Balboa Pavilion Gallery, the institution that eventually became OCMA. Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714-780-2130, ocma.art

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F PA C I F I C W I N E A N D F O O D C L A S S I C A N D I R V I N E B A R C L AY T H E AT R E

This outdoor dining series will highlight multicultural dining options at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel and surrounding areas. The first event this month is Brews and Bites offering wild boar bratwurst, duck flatbread, and more, plus an appearance from The Bruery. At the end of the month, the focus is Diwali Festival of Lights. Chef Sanjay Rawat celebrates India’s traditional regional Indian cuisine, vibrant lights, and more. The Ritz-

32 ORA NGE CO A ST • October 2022

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PLACES

OCT. 21 KRONOS QUARTET WITH MAHSA VAHDAT

Since its inception in 1973, the Kronos Quartet has performed in concert halls and festivals around the world, released more than 60 recordings, commissioned more than 1,000 works from a wide array of composers, and recorded music featured in numerous films. The musicians have also made a point of reflecting societal and cultural issues. They’ll perform with vocalist Mahsa Vahdat, a wellknown singer of Persian music. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

OPENS OCT. 8 CALIFORNIA BIENNIAL 2022

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F PA C I F I C W I N E A N D F O O D C L A S S I C A N D I R V I N E B A R C L AY T H E AT R E

When it was held every other year at OCMA from 1984 to 2010, the biennial gained a reputation for presenting emerging California artists who would go on to national and international acclaim. For its grand opening, the museum is reviving the exhibition, which will feature the work of more than 20 artists selected by former OCMA curator Elizabeth Armstrong, along with Essence Harden, visual arts curator at the California African American Museum, and Gilbert Vicario, chief curator

at the Phoenix Art Museum. Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714-780-2130, ocma.art OCT. 13 RANDY OTTO AS WINSTON CHURCHILL

Otto, a seasoned keynote speaker and actor, has been portraying Winston Churchill for

audiences around the world for more than 40 years. In this one-man show with music and audio-visual elements, he brings the struggles and lessons of Churchill’s time to the present day. After the show, the audience is invited to participate in a Q&A with Otto, still in character as Churchill. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

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PLACES OCT. 27 THROUGH 29 CASA CREEPY HAUNTED HOUSE

The Casa Romantica mansion gets a spooky makeover for the annual family-friendly event, where werewolves, vampires, and ghosts prowl the 1920s-themed haunted house and gardens as costumed visitors roam the grounds. The event is recommended for children ages 8 and up. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org

OPENS OCT. 21 “DEATH BY DESIGN”

OCT. 15

“Big Hits & Spellbound” features the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter celebrating her 60-year career and performing her most popular songs alongside tunes from her latest release, “Spellbound,” her 55th album. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu OCT. 14 THROUGH 16 “SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM”

Turning the spotlight on the lyricist and composer behind so many Broadway hits—from “West Side Story” and “Gypsy” to “Sweeney Todd” and “Into the Woods”—the multimedia show features musical numbers from Sondheim’s most popular shows along with video and archival commentary from the man himself. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-990-7722, curtistheatre.com OCT. 15 DURUFLÉ + HAGEN

Accompanied by the Pacific Symphony, the Pacific Chorale sings a work by composers Maurice Duruflé and Jocelyn Hagen that was inspired by Gregorian chant and the writings and art of Leonardo da Vinci. As the singers perform, a documentary film by Isaac Gale and Joseph Midthun featuring da Vinci’s work, and the art that he inspired, plays in the background. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714662-2345, pacificchorale.org M OR E ONLINE !

orangecoast.com

34 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

BOOKER T. JONES—60 YEARS OF GREEN ONIONS

“Green Onions” was the first song Booker T. & the MGs recorded. An instrumental composition, it was released in 1962 and sold more than a million copies, years later landing on Rolling Stone’s top 500 songs of all time. It was a fitting start for organist Booker T. Jones, who went on to win four Grammy Awards and was eventually inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu OCT. 20 THROUGH 22 TCHAIKOVSKY PIANO CONCERTO

Pianist Claire Huangci plays Tchaikovsky’s First Concerto to start this Pacific Symphony concert, which also includes performances of Brahms’ Fourth Symphony and “Luz Eólica” from Altar del Viento by Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz. A concert preview talk begins at 7 each night. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org OCT. 20 THROUGH 22 CHRIS MANN

Mann is a singer, songwriter, and actor. On the heels of his successful run on “The Voice” in 2012, he released 4 EPs, a live album, and a studio album—and followed that up playing the Phantom in a traveling production of “The Phantom of the Opera.” In 2020, his music parodies, including “My Corona” and “Hello (From the Inside),” went viral, collecting more than 300 million views. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

OCT. 27 MUCKENTHALER AFTER DARK: BEYOND THE BL ACK VEIL

Staff leads after-dark behind-the-scenes tours of the Muckenthaler, weaving in stories about Sadie, the house’s benevolent spirit. Also included: a paranormal “investigation,” a séance, tarot readings from Ipso Facto’s Terri Kennedy, and an absinthe tasting. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714738-6595, themuck.org OCT. 28 “THE JUST AND THE BLIND”

Spoken-word artist and activist Marc Bamuthi Joseph teams up with composer-violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain and street dance performer King Havoc for a performance that uses poetry, music, and dance to illuminate the experiences of incarcerated youth and their families. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org OCT. 29 “HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE” IN CONCERT

The Pacific Symphony, led by guest conductor John Jesensky, performs the iconic John Williams score as the first of the eight Harry Potter movies plays on a big screen onstage.

When it was released in 2001, the soundtrack was nominated at the Academy Awards for Best Original Score. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CASA ROMANTICA

OCT. 14 JUDY COLLINS

This comedy follows playwright Edward Bennett and his wife, actress Sorel Bennett, who leave London in the wake of their play’s disastrously unsuccessful opening night. But even in the country, they can’t escape, and soon their home is full of guests: a politician, a socialist, an ingenue, and a modern dancer.

When one of them is murdered, the maid is left to solve the crime. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-489-8082, caminorealplayhouse.org

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8/24/22 2:52 PM

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H A N D M A D E H O M E D E CO R THE FIND Intention Wheels ($700 to $2,200) from Ooh La Lūm, a company founded by Maggie Hinsch of San Juan Capistrano and Lauren Sherwin of Coto de Caza GOOD TO KNOW Each wheel is handmade with a combination of wool, cotton, raw silk, and leather. WHERE oohlalum.com

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

October 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 37

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W I T H . . .

F U N D AY C O L L E C T I V E This couple created an apparel brand to showcase their art in 2020. by Chelsea Raineri

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att Vargas and Katty Torres create a variety of products including shirts, sweatshirts, women’s joggers, and more for their brand, Funday Collective. Customers can shop the products in person by visiting their pop-up in the Santora Building once a month during the Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk.

How did you start Funday Collective?  Vargas: I met Katty in high school, and we’d get together and make art, paint, and sew. I never thought I could make a living from it or that other people would be interested.

Katty really pushed me to share my art and what we do. In March 2020, I was going to finally launch my brand.

I got invited to a shared studio space at the Santora Building in Santa Ana, and I jumped on it. I grew up in Santa Ana, so it made sense to have a space there.  Torres: I work mostly with the sewing because we have our own tags on our apparel and tote bags.

I’ve always been a really crafty, hands-on kind of person. I also run the social media.

How did you come up with the name?  Vargas: Sunday Funday was this thing where Katty and I would take our son to museums, parks, and anything that had a cool, artsy vibe to it and that’s how we would spend our Sunday. We wanted to build a brand that represents the fun vibes that we try to capture in our designs.  Torres: We dropped the Sunday because we felt that every day should be a fun day.

Do you offer creative services?  Vargas: Yes. City of Hope Orange County reached out to us during the pandemic and invited us to letter some inspirational words at their vaccination sites at Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center.

We sent them a few sketches and they really liked them. The morning they opened the vaccination site, we were still doing the chalking, and

38 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

DANIEL S. YANNI, MD, FAANS

Disc Comfort, Inc. Dr. Daniel S. Yanni is a board certified and spine fellowship trained neurosurgeon and is also one of the few surgeons in the country who specializes in Minimally Invasive and Complex Spine Surgery. Rated number one by his peers and patients alike, Dr. Yanni continues to research and develop new innovative approaches to surgical problems at his Disc Comfort, Inc. practice in Newport Beach.

“We bring the wealth of knowledge from the University academic days and marry it to a private practice concierge style model that provides the highest caliber of personalized care,” he says.

Dr. Yanni was a teenager in a high school anatomy class when he decided to become a neurosurgeon. He graduated summa cum laude from UCLA in Neuroscience.

His passion for Neurological Surgery grew further while in medical school at the University of California, San Diego.

“I was impressed by the anatomy and wiring in the brain and spine—how electrical signals are translated into motion, sensation, memories and speech,” says Yanni.

Ever focused on innovation, Dr. Yanni performs spine surgery through keyhole sized incisions, a minimally invasive procedure that allows patients to be released within hours or days and return to work within weeks. In addition, Dr. Yanni also performs traditional open surgery for complex, deformity, and revision cases. He is also the project director for Augmented Reality in Spine Surgery (new technology in spine surgery) and serves on the Executive Board as Co-Director of Development for the Lumbar Spine Research Society.

“Any patient suffering from neck pain, back pain or difficulty walking – this is what we are here for.”

Disc Comfort, Inc. 1501 Superior Avenue, Suite 214 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-515-0051 office | 949-515-0052 fax yannimd.com

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HOME FOR THE FINEST FIT IN BRAS

Voted BEST LINGERIE by Also seen on The Doctor Show • Specializing in Bra Fittings • Nursing Bras Available • Elegant Sleepwear • Bridal Foundation & Bridal Registry • Sizes from AA to K • Sports Bras

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A jacket and hat from Funday Collective

aperfectfitonline.com everyone was so excited and saying, “Thanks for doing this” and that they appreciate seeing the art. It was really fulfilling.

WED.-SAT. 11AM-6PM CALL FOR APPOINTMENT SUN., MON., TUES. CLOSED

The Cottage Gallery on Los Rios Street

Gallery & Artful Garden located in charming 1890’s cottage on historic Los Rios Street

Featuring 40 local artists Featuring 40 local artists Painting Photography Sculpture Jewelry Blown Glass Gifts Garden Decor

31701 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano www.cottagegalleryonlosrios.com

Where do you find design inspiration? Ú Vargas: From our experiences, music, movies—sometimes our son helps with ideas. We’ll be sitting at the dinner table, and he’ll start sketching or saying taglines.

What’s the artist edition collection? Ú Vargas: Each shirt or product we create in our studio is more of an artist edition. There are little nuances.

For example, with screen printing, the screen would get clogged up and there’s a little imprint and each one is different. We also will screen print our tags and Katty will sew them on, so there’s more production involved—each piece becomes an art piece.

What’s next? Ú Torres: In November, Funday Collective will have a small storefront in a curated marketplace inside Collective2one9 in downtown Santa Ana off 4th Street.

cottage_gallery

fundayco.com 40 O RA NGE CO AST • October 2022

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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JP GREENWOOD

The San Clemente photographer’s appointment-only showroom opened in 2019. by Chelsea Raineri

S

ituated on San Clemente’s Avenida Del Mar, the building with a glass exterior will catch your eye. Peek inside and you’ll see two wooden benches surrounded by white walls lined with photography from JP Greenwood. Knock on the door and you’re likely to find Greenwood creating frames by hand or making his prints in the back of the showroom.

Greenwood aims to capture the essence of his showroom’s first image, a lifeguard tower on the beach, in each picture he has taken since. “I’m just trying to get that same feeling where it’s very centered and singular,” he says. “I want to do that in different environments. Right now, I’m looking for something in the desert. I don’t really know what it is, but I know it needs to have those same components.”

Once he finds the structure or item he wants, Greenwood will take shots of its various elements and then digitally piece the photos together—a combination of photography and graphic design. The result is a clean image that almost resembles a watercolor painting. “I like to make the image very simple,” he says.

“There’s a lot of cleaning things up and taking out anything that your eye would go to besides the main element.”

151 Avenida Del Mar San Clemente 626-524-5727 jpgreenwood.com

“BENCH”

$1,800 to $3,500 42 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

“SWIM SURF” $1,800 to $3,500

“TOWER”

$1,800 to $3,500 photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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ART FORWARD Dress with a nod to artists.

by Chelsea Raineri

Local Find!

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Local Find!

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Vanderson (Vans x Anderson .Paak) bucket hat, $35, Vans, multiple locations

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Stella By Stella chalk stripes set, $1,790, Stella McCartney, South Coast Plaza, 657-273-5727

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44 ORA NGE CO AST • October 2022

Adidas Originals x Pharrell Williams unisex T-shirt, $40, Nordstrom, Fashion Island, 949-610-0700

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Jean-Michel Basquiat crew socks, $20, Stance, multiple locations

4

Cass x Prada America’s Cup “Sust4in” sneakers, $1,890, Prada, South Coast Plaza, 714-338-2200

5

Mosaic weekender bag, $398, Cleobella, Sunset Beach, 562-310-2911

6

Creating Extraordinary Spaces Since 1984 IRVINE 8650 Research Dr | 949.585.9191 LOS ANGELES 420 N. La Brea Ave | 323.634.0909 @cantonidesign | info-email@cantoni.com cantoni.com |

STYLE

HOME O N

T H E

M A R K E T

ART AT HOME $8.29 million Laguna Niguel

WISDOM

Kate Hoffman is the executive director of the Huntington Beach Art Center. She discusses the center’s classes, exhibitions, and more.

FROM

an art center leader

THE ART CENTER …

The Huntington Beach Art Center is ... owned and operated by the city. We focus on contemporary art, and we program six exhibitions a year, three of which reflect our community of local artists. The other three usually present a concept in contemporary fine art. (This month) we’re focusing on a photography exhibition called “Emerge: Share Your Shot.”

46 O RA NGE CO AST • October 2022

VOLUNTEER …

We’re operating a cultural arts festival Oct. 8 at Central Park for the first time. It’s a combination of an artists market and a children and family arts experience, and it’s an opportunity for people to sign up and volunteer to work the booths that day and assist artists and children in art making and presenting works. It’s a big deal.

MEETING COMMUNIT Y MEMBERS …

One of the most joyful experiences I have is meeting people in the community who have been to the art center and taken classes either as a child at art camp or as an adult. It’s always fun to hear that from members of our local community.

P R O P E R T Y P H O T O G R A P H S B Y J A R E D TA F U A ; H E A D S H O T B Y S A B R I N A P E T T R O W

 7,269 square feet  6 bedrooms  6 bathrooms Almost every room has a view of the ocean.  Of note: The artist in your family can use the guest house as a private studio.  22803 Seaway Drive  Sean Ryan, 800-585-4013

S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

Industry Expert Q&A: PG. 48 Trends: PGS. 50-58

Photo courtesy of Cantoni I cantoni.com I 949.585.9191 October 2022 • Or a ng e Coast 47

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INDUSTRY EXPERT Q&A

INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN with Kelly Ciulla

Q What trends are driving Sub-Zero’s Innovation?

A Performance with flexibility. Consumers are no longer willing to

compromise on personalization and performance of their kitchen appliances. Having flexible design options can make all the difference in creating a space that truly speaks to individual lifestyles and design visions, whether that be tapping into popular trends like colorful cabinetry or hidden appliances. Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove prides itself in offering customizable appliances that allow consumers to make their kitchen their own while delivering on performance. From preserving your ingredients with Sub-Zero, to preparing them with Wolf, and then cleaning up quietly and efficiently with Cove, we offer a full suite of powerful luxury appliances to take you through the kitchen journey in style.

Q Tell us about Wolf’s induction technology.

A When cooking with induction, heat is efficiently and directly transferred to

Kelly Ciulla

your cookware ensuring precise control – think the perfect simmer or ideal sear, every time. Consumers are always amazed that you can hold melted chocolate for hours without scorching on a Wolf Induction Cooktop or Induction Range. Achieving these results, while also offering speed, energy efficiency, and safety, is why consumers are becoming more interested in induction technology.

Affiliate President, Sub-Zero Group West

Q How do you blend innovation and design?

A Every Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove product has been developed with

thoughtful and intentional innovation that truly adds value for our customers. With our recently expanded Sub-Zero Designer Undercounter Refrigeration line, which now includes 15” and ADA models, you can take refrigeration beyond the kitchen. Whether you want a convenient beverage station in your walk-in closet, a home bar for entertaining, or even a bathroom refrigerator for keeping chilled eucalyptus towels, cosmetics and beverages within arm’s reach – the customization options are endless.

Q What’s the value in visiting a Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove showroom?

A Selecting kitchen appliances to stand the test of time is an important Showroom location 655 Anton Boulevard Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (657) 269-5874 subzero-wolf.com

48 Ora nge C o ast • October 2022

investment. We aim to create a seamless experience--from being able to speak with a showroom expert to find appliances that suit your specific needs and style, to interacting with the appliances and eventually making your selection. Visiting a Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove showroom is an inspiring and explorative experience that gives you access to our knowledgeable consultants and our showroom chefs, so you can even get a taste of all the possibilities.

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TRENDS 1

Westminster Teak

Surf’s Up Clean lines, welcoming curves, and the organic feel to the touch of its smooth rounded edges give the Surf Folding Collection its immediate appeal. First impressions hardly reveal that the exceptionally comfortable chair (needs no cushions!) folds effortlessly. Though visually robust and generously scaled, it is relatively lightweight yet structurally strong given its solid teak stature, allowing this chair to endure the test of time and the outdoors.

With a graceful stance and statuesque silhouette, the Surf Collection will fit beautifully anywhere: on a superyacht, at a dining table, on a sun-drenched terrace, or extra seating when needed wherever, whenever.

844.446.0001 westminsterteak.com

2

VERGOLA

The VERGOLA® opening and closing roof system gives you control over your environment. With smart rain sensor technology and double skin aerofoil louvers for better insulation, the VERGOLA® lets you relax or entertain outdoors, rain or shine.

855.949.8374 vergola.com

3

Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

Contemporary Design with glass railing. These custom stairs are solid white oak treads and risers with a 1-1/2" square edge detail. Hand Crafted and installed by: Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc. 714.536.6942 gaetanoinc.com 50 Ora nge C oast • October 2022

LOUVERS OPEN AND CLOSE

OUTDOOR LIVING FOR ALL SEASONS. The award-winning VERGOLA® is the original and best operable louver roof system for residential or commercial application.

For over 35 years VERGOLA® has remained the number one choice for enhancing the use of your outdoor space and adding value to your home or business.

Total control of light, heat, shade and ventilation Weatherproof with automatic sensor to close during rain Custom design and configuration by inhouse specialists Installation by VERGOLA® licensed contractors Engineering and permits all organized

by VERGOLA® Full manufacturer’s warranty

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Visit our purpose-built showroom 13800 Crenshaw Blvd, Hawthorne 90249 vergola.com / vergolausa CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE #1022142

24/6/21 12:28 pm

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TRENDS 4

MIKII’S ON DEL MAR

Spread frightfully good Halloween cheer during October with our "You've been boo'd" kit. Includes two treat bags with tag and string to deliver your favorite spooky treats. This kit also includes two felt bat banners so you can decorate your loved one's porch with some creepy new friends that they can enjoy all month long!

Also included is two "We've been boo'd" signs to let everyone one know that your loved ones have received some frightful Halloween cheer!

949.503.3326 San Clemente Instagram @MikiisOnDelMar

5

Builders Surplus Kitchen & Bath Cabinets

So Cal’s Largest Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Warehouse, Over 20,000 Cabinets Assembled & In Stock. 20 Kitchen Styles Assembled & In Stock, 65 Vanity Styles Assembled & In Stock.

We can provide assistance with laying out and designing your kitchen and bath, should you need our help.

888.299.1261 BuildersSurplus.Net

6

Superior Tree Care

Sheltering Shade Mature trees add greatly to the beauty of your property, giving it solid character and quiet charm. When it comes to the health and beauty of your trees, call on a company you can trust.

714.502.0226 superiortreecare.net

52 Ora nge C o ast • October 2022

gae tan oi n c . c om 714.536.6942 CUSTOM INSTALLATION & REFINISHING FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1955 Orange County Estate by: Gonterman Construction

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TRENDS

7

Cantoni

Statement Making Italian Design Distinctive detailing meets refined materials in the Tyron Masterwood Table

by Cattelan Italia. Tyron makes a sophisticated statement with its imposing silhouette consisting of a tabletop of Canaletto walnut with fascinating oblique edges and a contrasting angular graphite steel base. Made in Italy.

949.585.9191 cantoni.com

8

PIRCH

We think making your bathroom an escape from the world starts with choosing a wonderful bathtub. The stone tubs like this from Native Trails are handmade by their artisans from natural materials. They are beautiful to see and feel and are remarkably stain, scratch, and crack resistant. See them on display at each of our Southern California showrooms. pirch.com/brands/native-trails Costa Mesa 949.429.0800 Mission Viejo 949.220.0656 Laguna Design Center 949.704.0050 Pirch.com 54 Ora nge C o ast • October 2022

Designed by Amy Simonyan of Advanced Home Services (818) 810-7572

VISIT OUR IRVINE LOCATION AND VIEW OUR GREAT HANDPICKED SELECTION OF NATURAL STONES 2200 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92606 (949)536-5055 www.pacificshorestones.com

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TRENDS 9

Pacific Shore Stones

Green eases the mind!

Green has been topping the design trends for the last few years. Whether it's kitchen countertops, cabinets, or design elements, it is gaining popularity. Green is seen as a calming color that provides a sense of balance and stability. It eases stress and makes the mind relax.

949.536.5055 pacificshorestones.com

Cristallo Tiffany Quartzite

10

Botanic Crystal Quartzite

Alexandrita Quartzite

Bazaar del Mundo Shops

Overflowing with treasures and home goods from around the globe, you’ll find one-of-a-kind handcrafted folk art, rich textures, colorful home and garden accessories, unusual collectibles and so much more at the always vibrant Bazaar del Mundo Shops.

Celebrating more than 50 years in business in San Diego, owner-operator Diane Powers has created and continues to curate trending home décor shops that are beloved by residents across Southern California, the Southwest and beyond. Find the perfect décor pieces for your home as you travel around the world at Diane Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo Shops in Old Town San Diego.

619.296.3161 BazaarDelMundo.com

11

SOCO + The OC Mix

Tune in to an all-new season of SOCO’s Masters of Design!

Now streaming online, the destination is covering all things OC Mix - Orange County’s first food hall and artisan market, known for its constantly evolving and exciting “mix” of foodie-favorite concepts, maker-driven retail, and one-of-a-kind finds.

3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626 socomastersofdesign.com 56 Ora nge C oast • October 2022

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WHY PAY MORE? SEE IT, BUY IT, TAKE IT HOME TODAY!

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TRENDS

12

9/3/03

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove

The Wolf Dual Fuel Range combines professional heritage, stunning aesthetic, and innovative performance into one bold cooking package.

It's durable construction and intuitive features ensure every home chef can enjoy guesswork-free cooking and predictably delicious results for decades.

11:35 AM

Page 2

Showroom: 657.269.5874 subzerosocal.com/costamesa

TREE CARE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES Professional Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Tree Pruning & Crown Reduction • Sod Removal Palms Skinned, Trimmed & Removed Ivy Topping & Removal • Power Stump Grinding Lot & Hill Clean-ups for Fire Regulation Liability Insurance • Workers Comp. Insurance WE ACCEPT VISA, M/C & AMERICAN EXPRESS

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www.superiortreecare.net

714-502-0226 58 Ora nge C oast • October 2022

Follow Us! Tips on the best O.C. dining, shopping, events and more.

@orangecoastmag

More info: orangecoast.com

In partnership with the Balboa Village Merchant Association

Afternoon full of tastings, food, music & more on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12TH 12:00-4:00 PM

Tickets & more information:

orangecoast.com/balboabeerfest

Photography by: Mike Leavitt

FOOD

DRINK

R OYA L E W I T H C H E E S E THE DISH Ground short rib, raclette cheese, pickled onions, and secret sauce on a homemade potato bun THE DETAILS The team at Populaire keeps the menu lighthearted with nods to pop culture, as with this allusion to “Pulp Fiction.” THE PRICE $22 THE PL ACE Populaire TURN THE PAGE for our review. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

October 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 61

62 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

FOOD

M A I N

DRINK

C O U R S E

POPULAIRE MODERN BISTRO

O.C. heavyweights shine brightly at newest South Coast Plaza spot. by Gretchen Kurz

M

any of us simply shrug when a designer boutique opens at South Coast Plaza—but the buzz is immediate whenever the center expands its dining portfolio. So far, 2022 has been a great year for star rookies, and Populaire Modern Bistro is advancing the trend.

Open in June, Populaire was a surprise arrival given its sleepy location and miraculously short gestation—a mere three months between signing the lease and completion of a dazzling makeover of the vacated Lawry’s Carvery. The 90-seat bistro is a dream collaboration between veteran chefs Nick Weber and Ross Pangilinan—longtime friends since their 2004 meeting in the kitchen of departed Pinot Provence. Fans of Pangilinan know him from Terrace by Mix Mix, his acclaimed top-floor venue in the Home Wing.

Diners check in at a reception stand that faces the gleaming, barrel-ceiling kitchen, lending a genial start to things—you can’t be ignored here.

Shades of Prussian blue woodwork frame oversize floral murals and link the dining room and patio seating. The effect is elevated and lighthearted at once.

Unlike barbecue, dumplings, or tacos, the fare isn’t easily categorized, meaning ingenuity and autonomy are on the table. Is it French or Asian or American? Why yes, it is. Until you order the sublime Spanish octopus. The concise all-day menu serves as a base for apropos add-ons such as a weekly prix fixe lunch or Sunday brunch specials. Add seasonal tweaks that

sweep in Mother Nature’s best work, and you have a dense but dynamic selection.

A trio of hors d’oeuvres are shareable nibbles. Escargot ebelskivers are a clever ploy to beguile the snail-fearful: four just-griddled orbs of puffy escargot batter on a puddle of buttermilk emulsion swirled with parsley. The flavors say France, but the format says fun. Impeccably fried chicken thighs get cool contrast from tangy lebneh, but the generous dollop of delicate osetra caviar, which explains the $40 price, is clobbered in this mashup. Better are the pair of crunchy duck confit spliffs—a riff on Viêt chá giò, complete with rau ram, fish sauce, and cucumber for wrapping in lettuce leaves.

Stellar small plates include the sushi-grade fluke cured in tart lime and dressed with coconut milk, radish, and mint. Do not miss Weber’s heady ratatouille, a slow-cooked alliance of summer squashes, tomato, and aromatics spiked with bold gochujang. Topped with grated white cheddar and a runny egg yolk for stirring in, it eats like a rustic meal when piled

South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St. Costa Mesa 714-760-4555 5 BEST DISHES

Ratatouille

Crab chawanmushi

Royale With Cheese

Duck breast

Croque madame PRICE RANGE Starters/small plates, $12 to $40 Entrees, $20 to $140 Brunch dishes, $18 to $36 FYI This is the team behind Verdant, the restaurant at the new home for the Orange County Museum of Art.

LEFT The ratatouille is a bestseller and one of chef Nick Weber's favorites.

RIGHT Bright murals and blue walls make the space elegant and lighthearted at the same time. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

October 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 63

FOOD

DRINK on its freshly grilled crostini. Chawanmushi—a savory egg custard boosted by saffron dashi, crab, and uni—is a lesson in umami, delicate yet powerful. Baby gem lettuce salad is also light but substantial, with seasonal fruit (peaches on my visit), artisan cheese, nuts, and rosé vinaigrette.

Gem lettuce reappears in Ladies Who Lunch—a lively chopped salad entree that plays up roasted chicken, crisp snap peas, Persian cucumbers, and ripe avocado, all flattered by herby buttermilk dressing. Black plums, brown butter, and complex black garlic molasses are unexpected foils for the carefully rendered duck breast. Look for autumnal fruit to replace the plums by now. A handsome tomahawk steak is the celebratory call, sliced to share and dolled up with roasted mushrooms and buttery whipped potatoes. Prime bavette is two fat slices of a 10-ounce steak cooked to a dashing medium-rare, then plated

Prime bavette steak and baby gem lettuce salad with seasonal fruit at Populaire

with sauce au poivre and seasonal vegetables. I couldn’t pass up the amusingly named Royale With Cheese. This glorious burger easily outshines its “Pulp

Fiction” namesake, with a juicy patty of ground short rib on a potato bun. In between is a boffo layering of raclette cheese, pickled onions, and secret cornichon sauce.

Paris Brest, arguably the best in town, is one of three from-scratch desserts.

Midweek lunch has a changing prix fixe menu of three courses designed by Weber, and it’s a sleeper find. Sunday brunch is a supplement of mostly eggy dishes. Croque madame oozing Comté cheese is my top pick—I’m told it’s crossing over to the main menu.

Service is affable and obliging. General manager Alyssa McDiarmid is a familiar presence to O.C. diners, orchestrating the front of the house for The Cannery, Louie’s by the Bay, and Marché Moderne.

She also curates the wily wine list here.

Keep your eyes on precocious Populaire. I predict more unexpected magic from this gifted crew and can’t wait to taste what’s next. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

Now serving a new line of specialty cocktails!

Proud Supporter of the Pacific Wine and Food Classic

Rugged. Refined. Respected.

S A N S I M E O N W I N E S .C O M ©2022 RIBOLI FAMILY WINES, PASO ROBLES, CA

RE6137_SanSimeon_OC_Ad_P1.indd 1

8/31/22 12:02 PM

DRINK 5

Q U E S T I O N S

W I T H …

NICK WEBER

The chef at Populaire and Verdant has moved from O.C. restaurants to catering and back again. Now he’s bringing his talent to two new places in Costa Mesa.

by Cathy Thomas WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE O.C. RESTAURANTS (ASIDE FROM YOURS)?

Anjin, in Costa Mesa, is a Japanese barbecue spot. For antipasti and pizza, it’s Trenta Pizza and Cucina. Two Italian guys own it and make a 30-inch pizza.

WHO WAS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE? I appreciate that working with Florent Marneau introduced me to a different style of French cooking. Watching Anthony Bourdain also—seeing him go to places and eat dishes I’d never seen before.

DO YOU HAVE A SECRET TALENT? I play the guitar, primarily an electric Gretsch … good old-fashioned rock and roll. Right now, it’s lots of Van Halen because my son is interested.

WHAT’S YOUR DREAM PROJECT? Opening Populaire. It took almost 30 years of cooking.

WHAT’S NEXT? Verdant, the restaurant at the Orange County Museum of Art. It’s very vegetable forward, which I love doing. We’ll pull in from the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia; they have all these great sauces that are big and bright and bold and highlight the vegetables as well.

I’m using miso to add some umami and depth to the dishes. And there will be a full cocktail program there.

specializes in beautiful custom cookie creations by Samantha Meyers. From birthdays, anniversaries, and baby showers to holidays, weddings, and charity and corporate events, cookies start at $66 per dozen for custom orders.

Sugared and Iced also offers holiday gift boxes and other sweet treats such as cake pops, mini cookies, and cupcakes. sugaredandiced.com or 949-529-1732 SUGARED AND ICED

MADE IN ORANGE COUNTY

Coto de Caza

66 ORA NGE CO AST • October 2022

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SUGARED AND ICED

FOOD

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

October 1, 2022

Learn More at

PacificWineandFood.com

OCfoodies

FOOD

DRINK

F O O D

T R E N D S

ANSWER: TRIVIA

Question: What game livens the O.C. dining scene every weeknight? by Benjamin Epstein

Monday might not seem like the best night to go out … but you wouldn’t know it by the packed patio at SGT.

PEPPERONI’S PIZZA STORE .

The venue has a strong music connection; it’s inspired by the Beatles album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and partner Stan Frazier was Sugar Ray’s drummer. Craft beer helps fuel the pencil-and-paper excitement, and top teams win restaurant gift cards.

Mercy Martin of national company Pour House Trivia hosts the festivities, and she also emcees events at nearby Hangar 24 brewery on Thursdays—likely the most popular trivia event in California. 4533 CAMPUS

Trivia Tuesday at eclecticAmericana-themed MUTT’S EASTBLUFF is familyfriendly—and fun. Trivia master Ashley Darrow of America’s Pub Quiz weaves in audio elements such as song and movie snippets, and everybody in the restaurant stops to listen. Prizes include a $150 gift card for first place.

Concurrent Taco Tuesday specials include street tacos for $4.50 and six Estrella Jalisco beers for $20. Sibling Mutt Lynch’s—a pub with a beer-schooner chandelier near the Newport Beach pier for 45 years—has a lively trivia night on Wednesdays.

2531 EASTBLUFF DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH, 949-719-0635

King Trivia quizmaster Lorraine Chambers leads events at THE RECESS ROOM on Wednesdays. She favors visual elements; participants might be asked to ID eight photos and determine what the subjects have in common. “Super-duper fun—and very competitive,” says GM-bar manager Ava Navarrete, whose top-tier cocktails complement the trivial pursuits and creative menu. Namesake team Ava’s Minions (she’s not on it) competes regularly. Answers are logged via cellphone; results are posted online.

Hot tip: Order during happy hour before the game begins. 18380 BROOKHURST ST.,

PALI WINE CO. pours natural and traditional wines from the Santa Ynez Valley—alongside Pour House Trivia on Thursdays. Pali’s outpost at MAKE food hall, opposite the Packing House, feels like a stylish, spacious living room. Game-smith and host Matthew Frost writes the daily questions for all of Pour House’s SoCal locations; his format rewards point-value strategies as well as knowledge. The menu includes artisan cheeses, charcuterie plates, and thoughtful small plates. Prizes include wine accessories, Pali Wine merch, and wine-tasting coupons. 500 S. ANAHEIM

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, 714-377-0398

BLVD., ANAHEIM, 714-486-0922

DRIVE, IRVINE, 949-748-1080

68 ORA NGE C O AST • October 2022

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

TICKETS

ON

SALE

Wednesday, October 26 7:00 to 9:00 pm

LBX The Hangar, Long Beach

Take a deep dive

into the world of whiskey at our

whiskey festival.

Meet the distillers, sip the finest selections, learn

fresh cocktail recipes, and experience new labels.

Enjoy savory bites & sweet

treats along with music and unique experience that will complement the bespoke atmosphere.

FOR TICKETS & MORE INFO:

lamag.com/whiskeyfestival Must be 21+ to attend.

Premieres

October 4 9pm

MY O.C.

Big Cheez-It Relief News about crazy food items is a welcome change given recent events. by Barbara Neal Varma

I

t was touted as “taco ingredients on the biggest Cheez-It cracker known to humankind.”

Introducing: The Big Cheez-It Tostada.

Over the summer, Taco Bell and Cheez-It got together to dream up a new twist on an old favorite. Instead of a traditional bowl-shaped tortilla to hold the meat and cheese combo, they produced a giant Cheez-It that was 16

times its normal size.

Just one catch: The novel tostada was available for two weeks only and in just one West Coast location. Hello, Irvine! (Taco Bell headquarters, after all.)

Game on, I thought, and immediately researched the address—2222 Barranca Parkway. I told my husband, Michael, where we were going for lunch that afternoon. Fart jokes be damned; I didn’t care, because for the first time in forever, the news out of Orange County wasn’t a shock to my system.

No more mention of flyers found scattered around local beach towns promoting a KKK rally.

No reports of mass shootings at local churches.

No furtive word about a (nowformer) Chapman University professor carrying a concealed memo on how to overturn the 2020 election.

In other words, a welcome break from all the recent scary stories hitting too close to home.

I ARRIVED IN ORANGE County more than 30 years ago on a Grad Night trip to Disneyland. Having grown up in Las Vegas, I thought we’d landed in paradise. That same weekend, our high school group stayed near the water, and I experienced my first hot kiss on the cool sands of Huntington Beach.

Several years later, I moved into a condo within walking distance of Angels Stadium, as it was called then.

I was in the stands when rookie Wally Joyner hit a home run in his first at-bat, the beginning of Wally World.

Since then, I’ve lived in three O.C. illustration by P E T E R YA N

October 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 71

MY O.C. cities, earned two degrees from Cal State Fullerton, ended one marriage, and started another that has lasted more than 23 years.

When Michael and I were dating, we “got hitched” at Knott’s Berry Farm.

During the brief Wild West ceremony, I vowed to darn Michael’s socks and he promised to hand over his weekly paycheck. I still have the souvenir nail ring nestled in my jewelry box.

THE NOVEL TOSTADA WAS AVAIL ABLE FOR T WO WEEKS ONLY AND IN JUST ONE WEST COAST LOCATION. HELLO, IRVINE! (TACO BELL HEADQUARTERS, AF TER ALL.)

“W E S H O U L D L E AV E E A R LY T O avoid the rush,” Michael suggested about the giant tostada lunch excursion.

Good idea. News of an enormous orange cracker descending on O.C. had received national exposure, including the late-night circuit, and I didn’t want the dish to sell out before we got there.

Which was exactly what I thought had happened when we arrived to a mostly empty parking lot. Why, oh, why had I thought I could catch a reality

break when I couldn’t even go to the grocery store these days without seeing signs of strife in our fair county? Vaccine protests in front of medical clinics. Disapproving looks from strangers when I opted to wear a mask indoors. Political pop-up stands sporting enough f-bombs on their signage to make a Caltrans crew blush. Same goes for the T-shirts on display (avert your eyes, kids), advertised to be “one size fits all” in an ironic claim of inclusiveness.

O.C. Scene

“Come on in,” Michael said, holding the door open for me. We quickstepped it over to the self-service screens. Being a tech guy, he found the prize tostada first, under Specialty Menu Items. Not sold out after all—yay!

“Everything on it?” he asked, tapping in our orders.

“Absolutely—except jalapenos, of course. And a small Diet Coke.”

Ten minutes later, we collected our calorie fest at the counter. The verdict?

Guiltily delicious as charged—although not nearly as mammoth as all the hype would have us believe, measuring only slightly larger than the size of my palm.

Still, mission accomplished. I climbed back into the truck, happily anticipating a nap. Then I saw the spinning-sign guy. He was holding one of those cardboard signs, but what grabbed my attention was its design to look like a giant handgun. In fact, the word GUNS was printed in large block letters across the barrel. He stra-

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

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OPENINGS

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Photo Credit: Chris Trela

72 ORA NGE CO A ST • October 2022

MY O.C. tegically pointed it this way and that, catching people’s attention at the busy intersection.

I stared in disbelief. “Is that allowed?”

“It’s legal,” Michael said. “Although I don’t agree with it.”

“But the Laguna Woods shooting happened just a few weeks ago,” I pointed out. “The church isn’t even that far away.”

I searched the area while the light was still red and spotted the gun shop in a nearby strip mall. Its glass front and bright interior lights made it easy to see what looked like a long line of rifles propped against two walls.

I suddenly felt sick, and it had nothing to do with my poor food choices.

I got out of the truck and headed over to confront the corner guy, insisting he take his stupid gun-shaped sign and leave right this instant!

At least, that’s what I wish I’d done.

Unfortunately, or perhaps not, I’m an avid pacifist, more prone to smoothing things over than stirring things up. So I stewed about it instead, trying through several sleepless nights to solve all the county’s problems from my little corner of it.

But here’s the thing about obsession: It brings focus. In the end, I wrote my own bold memo and bulleted list of things I can do to make a difference: Vote Volunteer Make a voodoo doll of Rudy Giuliani (kidding … kind of ) Phone a representative Floss more Because if the Big Cheez-It Tostada teaches us nothing else, it’s that our very differences are the magic beans to making something new and unique— something that generates good news instead of bad.

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October 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 73

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

O F 2022

PART Y presented by

Our annual Orange Coast’s Best of 2022 Party presented by Cadillac was held at the beautiful Rancho Las Lomas in Silverado. Guests had the opportunity to enjoy tastings from current and past “Best of” winners as well as fan favorites.

The latest Cadillac Escalades were on display along with a hydration station from Mountain Valley Spring Water. Attendees were able to create their very own silk scarf from Mayu Silk Art as well as captured moments in the photo booth from Celebrity Cruises. The night helped raise funds for Alzheimer’s Association.

Special thank you to Rancho Las Lomas, 24 Carrots and Larson Lighting.

Congratulations to all the Best of 2022 winners!

Visit orangecoast.com for party pictures and more events!

PEOPLE

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PA R T I E S

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EVENTS

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OPENINGS

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

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PA R T I E S

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EVENTS

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OPENINGS

608 Dahlia Artisan Cafe Chato’s Bar & Grill Champion’s Curry USA Cookie Lab Corbin Cash Distillery Dough & Arrow Elephant Craft Hard Seltzer Farmhouse at Roger’s Garden Gracias Madre Handel’s Ice Cream Karl Strauss Kimpton Shorebreak Resort Pacific Hideaway Kitchen 1726 Moongoat Coffee Mountain Valley Spring Water Old Brea Chop House Poppy & Seed Puesto West Toast Cafe Urbana Anaheim

Photos by Ron Levy Photography

Food & Drink Participants

EXCURSIONS

All Shook Up for Elvis Annual festival honoring the King lures fans of all kinds this month. by Laura Saari The Jailhouse Rockers of California, which was stuffed with old knickknacks depicting the King: a watercolor, movie posters, single records, and more. I talked to an Elvis impersonator, totally decked out: jumpsuit, pompadour, belt, all of it. I passed an Elvis statue, sky high and made entirely of balloons, down to the gold sunglasses. I narrowly missed an Elvis on stilts. OK, I thought, this is fun. I poked into the Azteca Mexican restaurant, which has become known locally as “The Elvis Bar.” Elvis has not left that building. I was completely surrounded by Elvis karaoke and wax-museum-style Elvis statues.

Action figures. Framed vinyl records.

Elvis posters and Elvis wine bottles.

Back out in the sunshine, I stopped to appreciate a take-your-breathaway lineup of Cadillacs—a 1962 gold Coupe de Ville, a 1956 pink sedan, a 1960 red Eldorado—all from 1977 and earlier. All of them babied better than a firstborn.

B U T T H I S E LV I S F L O T S A M could not keep me from the music.

“You ain’t nothing but a hound dog” beckoned. Under the music tent, I was surrounded by diehard fans. In front of me, Janine Gordon and Victoria Rogers, two Orange County Elvis enthusiasts who hadn’t seen each other since high school, suddenly found they were sitting side by side. (“Vicki.

I think that’s her. I think that’s her. I’m going for it; I really think it’s her. Vicki!

You look so good!”) Crying all the time … and you ain’t no friend of mine.

On stage, various musicians played the songs Mike Stoller and Jerry Leiber wrote for Elvis. Because 76 ORA NGE CO A ST • October 2022

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E E LV I S F E S T I VA L

O

range County is an Elvis hotbed—I’ll leave you to ponder why—with a dense Elvis Presley fan club. So it’s no surprise that Elvis fans from throughout the area will turn out by the thousands Oct. 9 for the 22nd annual Elvis Festival in Garden Grove.

Garden Grove’s Main Street has always felt to me like Smalltown, USA, and it seems perfect for Elvis. Entering the street last year, I passed a fan club booth,

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E E LV I S F E S T I VA L

EXCURSIONS Stoller was the center of attention, I found him immediately in the front row, looking unbelievably young (then 88), freckled, and hip in a black-andwhite blurred plaid shirt, matching white cap with a tiny, embroidered crown, and yellow-tinted aviators. I’m a little intimidated by Stoller. I mean, is “Stand by Me” not one of the best songs ever written?

But I steeled myself to ask him: “Why is Elvis still such a thing?”

“It’s not a question of why he matters,” Stoller told me. “It’s something he elicited, something he brought to the world. Go figure. But after all these years, people still love Elvis Presley.”

People were dancing in the aisles.

Don’t write off the baby boomers, who, predictably, represented most of the crowd. The energy was fevered. Two guests were rocking out in wheelchairs. My 20-year-old son went nuts and started dancing, too. (His generation likes the same rock we liked, so it

can: “It’s just something we have to do,” Marilyn said.

I met people in the audience who said they hadn’t missed a year in the two-decades-plus since the festival started, as a small-time promotion for a car exhibit at the Orange County Fair.

makes road trips easy.)

And while the event is definitely California casual, there were high pompadours in the group that I thought were probably authentic, not costume.

“It’s because this is the gospel, and we love the gospel,” said Beverly Leech, who wore a red flowered dress. She feels a special connection with Elvis.

“I cried the whole time I was at Graceland,” said Marilyn Leos of Tustin, who attends the festival with her cousin, Eric Leos, every year. “I felt like he was there with us.” The Leos cousins visit every Elvis location they

NO BEAUTY SHINES BRIGHTER THAN THAT OF A GOOD HEART

THE BRAIN TRUST BEHIND THE Elvis Festival is a woman you might know if you’ve been around here a few decades like I have. Or at least you’ll recall her publicity stunts.

There was most famously a cattle drive all the way down Fairview Road in Costa Mesa just to let the locals know fair week was on. There was the giant chia pickup truck, blooming with sprouted chia seeds at the fair entrance. There was a corn derby, where every state in the nation sent in its local corn seed, and the tallest won. There was one wacky professor who played a clarinet while covered

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EXCURSIONS “IT’S NOT A QUESTION OF WHY HE MAT TERS. IT’S SOMETHING HE ELICITED, SOMETHING HE BROUGHT TO THE WORLD. GO FIGURE. BUT AF TER ALL THESE YEARS, PEOPLE STILL LOVE ELVIS PRESLEY.” —M I K E S TO L L E R , P I C T U R E D O N PAG E 7 7

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in 200,000 bees. And there was a cus- tennis great and store owner Hank todian who rode the Ferris wheel for Lloyd). “Rather than just have look38 days, only earning a few minutes alike Elvises in jumpsuits singing traoff each hour. All of this, I remind you, ditional Elvis songs, we’re more than that. We try to keep it different.” was before anything “went viral.”

Seeing her audience potentially Jill Lloyd is a true local who grew up age out is a concern. She’s attracted in Fullerton, went to Sunny Hills High, younger audiences by tapping the and started with the fair when she was rockabilly crowd, featuring female a little kid 60 years ago, and when kids Elvis singers, staging an Elvis flash in Orange County still raised animals. mob at Main Place in Santa Ana. There “I started with nine rabbits. I worked have been Elvis tributes by ukulele, my way up to pigs and cattle.” She was harmonica, and harp players.

This hired by the fair soon after: “They kept year, there will be a beer stand featurme because I knew about animals.”

Eventually, she became communi- ing local breweries, and the theme is cations guru, and former swap meet “Follow That Dream.”

I’m a little too young for Elvis (my operator Bob Teller asked her if she’d mom loves him and thought him concoct something to get people into revolutionary), but who’s really too his new car exhibit on the fairgrounds. young for Elvis?

He is so ageless and She started doing monthly events— iconic that it was worth making a red cars for strawberry month, that movie about him this year. I know sort of thing. One of the car shows was people who make an annual pilgrimElvis-themed, to honor his death. age to Graceland about as frequently Lloyd, who had no special interest in Elvis, collects no salary from as they go to church. My best friend the event, only funds to keep it going. was married by a blind Elvis in Vegas.

And keep it going is exactly what fans My brother’s new family in Japan begged her to do, after the car collec- insisted on Elvis songs throughout the tion disappeared from the fairgrounds. wedding. Elvis is not only iconic, he “When Bob Teller sold his lease in is international. It’s very cool that the 2016, I decided that since we had been King is among us in Orange County going for 16 years, I’d relocate the fes- like this every year.

There’s a lot of kitsch around Elvis, tival to Garden Grove.” Lloyd chose Main Street in Garden Grove as the but after I spent some time with new venue in part because Azteca the the local fans, I felt something else: authenticity. Even without it, I would “Elvis Bar” is located there.

Lloyd has come up with various go again to the county Elvis Festival. It Elvis-related contests over the years: felt sooooooo good to dance again. the Piled-high Elvis and Priscilla hair contest, the Crème de la King karaoke GO contest.

Oct. 9, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free. facebook.com “We try to keep it fresh,” says the /elvisfestival and elvisfestival@yahoo.com energetic blonde (her brother is local

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84 Ora nge C o ast • October 2022

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‘ALL ROADS LEAD TO THIS ONE’ New dean of Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine has spent her life battling to build pathways for herself and future students.

by Aliese Willard Muhonen photographs by Emily J. Davis

86 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 87

T

iffany López had not planned to go to college.

Even finishing high school seemed uncertain after she had to flee an abusive home at age 15 and work full time at fast-food restaurants to support herself. Higher education didn’t seem likely, let alone earning master’s and doctoral degrees, along with some of the most prestigious awards in academia.

López sits on a couch in her spacious corner office at UC Irvine, the surroundings hinting at the prominence of the position she started in July: dean of the nationally ranked Claire Trevor School of the Arts.

and design-minded.”

For nearly 30 years, López has dedicated her life to helping students design better lives, by increasing their opportunities for higher education and arts access. López is esteemed as a hybrid artist, scholar, administrator, community organizer, and champion for diversity. She created programs to increase inclusion, community engagement, and leadership training as a professor of English and theater at UC Riverside and then at Arizona State University.

Along the way, she was promoted to an endowed chair position at UC Riverside. At ASU, she became director of the School of Film, Dance and Theatre and then vice provost for inclusive excellence.

“That’s really how I see my role as a leader and as an artist and as a scholar—(as) a conduit.”

1

“There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t look at everything I’ve done and say, ‘This is a life I could have never imagined for myself, (that) my family could have never imagined for me,’ ” she says. “And it all happened because of my education.”

I

f people were typefaces, López would be bold.

She’s artfully clad in a fuchsia shift dress, crisp white blazer, and black-and-white-framed glasses that can only be described as avant-garde. The bright colors and high contrast are a nod to her theater background, where she has helped produce a wide variety of stories as a dramaturge since her college days.

She says a striking visual ensemble impacts her mood and reminds her “to be really present, and to think intentionally about the choices that we can make. They’re a way to embrace living intentionally 88 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

The abridged version of her list of accolades includes the first César Chávez Fellow at Dartmouth, a Fulbright scholar, and the recipient of numerous grants and fellowships from the Mellon Foundation, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Endowment for the Arts, Ford Foundation, and Rockefeller Foundation.

Which accomplishment is she most proud of? “This one,” she says about her new position. “I would say everything else that you might read about that I’ve done, all roads lead to this one.”

A native Southern Californian, López wanted to return to her roots.

Her history encompasses not only the geographic location but the mentors and school systems that changed her life.

“When I was in high school, I would have never said, ‘Hey, the pathway I see for myself is to become

3

PHOTOS 1, 2, 3, AND 5 COURTESY OF DEAN LÓPEZ; PHOTO 4 COURTESY OF UC RIVERSIDE

—T I F F A N Y L Ó P E Z

PHOTOS 1, 2, 3, AND 5 COURTESY OF DEAN LÓPEZ; PHOTO 4 COURTESY OF UC RIVERSIDE

2 1. López in college 2. At age 15, in high school, around the time she left home 3. Fishing 4. At UC Riverside in 2012 5. At graduate school at UC Santa Barbara

4

5 October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 89

90 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

a dean!’ That has to be created,” she says, referring to the many teachers who helped her see her potential. “It’s very important to me that we’re building pathways from the university into the community and (vice versa) for our students.”

More than many academics, she can identify on a deep level with UC Irvine’s diverse population of students—especially with the 84 percent who are people of color, the almost 50 percent who are first in their families to attend college, the 45 percent who come from low-income families, and the nearly 3,000 transfer students from community colleges. Their story is hers, too.

nating in her father deserting the family.

“Part of abandoning his family was just leaving my mother, who was a stay-athome housewife, to fend for herself while he went on and did whatever,” Lopez says.

“And my mother hadn’t been employed.

She didn’t have any fallback, and her own mental health was deteriorating.”

Between her father’s abuse and her mother’s inability to care for her and her siblings, López feared for their lives. She fled her home and called Child Protective Services at age 15. Her siblings were removed from the home. López never went back. The family of a friend took her in, on the condition that she work to help

“I feel like that’s one of her superpowers—creating these pathways for other people to be able to be leaders as well.”

—PATRICIA HERRERA

G

rowing up, López relished the culture of creativity around her in Goleta, near UC Santa Barbara.

The granddaughter of migrant farm workers from Mexico, she was enchanted by the traditions her grandmother passed down, like storytelling at the kitchen table.

There was an abundance of free public arts initiatives in the 1970s. Since money was often tight, López and her two younger siblings enjoyed the accessible creative programs offered at libraries, parks, and the university. While the arts gave López “an outlet for imagination and dreaming,” they were also a refuge from an increasingly turbulent home life.

Reading books and writing skits kept her childhood joy alive, she says, “while I was in circumstances that required me to be very mature very quickly, as the oldest in a violent household.”

Her father, she wrote in an essay, was “a raging alcoholic” who physically and verbally abused his wife and children.

The violence and mistreatment escalated throughout López’s childhood, culmi-

support their household.

López got a full-time job at Burger King.

Every day after high school, she worked from 3 p.m. until midnight. It would have been easy to drop out of school. “I was not a great student, obviously, with circumstances like that,” she says. But three supportive teachers prevented her from giving up. They allowed López to rest during class if she needed to, as long as she promised to earn her diploma.

She graduated and enrolled in California Community Colleges—the first in her family to finish high school and attend college. She wanted to manage a branch of Burger King and needed an associate degree in business. As López was finishing her degree, a group of teachers again changed her trajectory. Her humanities instructors noticed her natural writing ability and creativity. They suggested she transfer to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Being a first-generation college student with no prior exposure to educational pathways, López didn’t know the difference between associate (continued on page 155) October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 91

92 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

GUO PEI, “COURTYARD COLLECTION, LOOK 39 SPRING/SUMMER 2016” COURTESY OF SCAD

SEE B OW ER S MUSEUM PAGE 97

GUO PEI, “COURTYARD COLLECTION, LOOK 39 SPRING/SUMMER 2016” COURTESY OF SCAD

arts PREVIEW After a cautious return in 2021, Orange County arts institutions are ready for a dramatic, full-force comeback. The 2022-23 season promises sparkling performances, visiting global stars, national premieres, and a new, world-class venue. Take a sneak peek at everything our county has to offer in the coming months, then grab your seats!

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 93

arts P R E V I E W

OCMA’s New Home PHOTOGRAPH BY JOSHUA WHITE, COURTESY OF OCMA

The Orange County Museum of Art opens its new building this month. Here’s what you need to know about the latest addition to Costa Mesa’s arts hub.

$0

Entry fee for the first 10 years

$1 million

Minimum donation to be invited to the Million Dollar Donor Dinner, chaired by Jennifer and Anton Segerstrom

94 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

2

Number of cafes in the museum

3

Floors in the building

4

Member preview days ahead of the grand opening

5

Number of opening exhibitions

6

Days of the week that Verdant, the cafe at the museum, will be open for lunch

7+

Various activities planned during the opening 24-hour period, including dancing, DJs, yoga, and movies

24

Width, in feet, of the “Of Many Waters” sculpture by Sanford Biggers on the upper terrace

PHOTOGRAPH BY JOSHUA WHITE, COURTESY OF OCMA

Number of stairs on the upper terrace

Hours the museum will be open the first day

8th

Museum’s opening date this month

13

Female founders of the museum, who will be honored in an opening exhibit

14

Number of stairs on the lower plaza

37

Months from groundbreaking in September 2019 to opening

1962 4,500+ 6,534 53,000

Founding year of OCMA

Pieces in the permanent collection

Number of terra cotta tiles inside and outside the building

Square footage of the new building, more than double the previous space

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 95

arts P R E V I E W

Local Museums Rev Up

O.C. institutions are expanding and creating more ways to reach new audiences.

T

by Anastacia Grenda

he Orange County Museum of Art is making headlines for its grand new venue opening this month, but that’s not the only local museum generating buzz.

It’s not even the only O.C. museum moving into expanded new digs. The county’s major institutions—committed to accessibility, scholarship, and diverse voices and experiences—are shattering the old stereotype of the museum as stuffy, stodgy, and snooty. all so fortunate to be here now, witnessing this visible investment in culture,” says Kim Kanatani, director of the UC Irvine Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art. “I greatly look forward to OCMA’s opening and to the Hilbert’s expansion, as well as Langson IMCA’s new home. All of this positions Orange County as a vibrant area with increasing opportunities for cultural enrichment, engagement, and collaboration.”

Here’s a closer look at what’s happening at each of the county’s major museums.

¼ “Guo Pei: Art of Couture” takes the Chinese designer’s extravagant fashions from the runways and red carpets to the exhibition galleries (Nov. 12 through May 14).

2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714-567-3600, bowers.org

IMAGE PROVIDED COURTESY OF SCAD

Thoughtfully curated exhibits, in galleries or on screens, are just part of the dynamic programming schedules. By day, there are art-making workshops, cultural festivals, and children’s story times; nighttime might be given over to author lectures, film screenings, and concerts. These aren’t your grandparents’ museums— they’re probably not your parents’ either, as they continue to evolve their cultural identity.

“Orange County has come into its own in terms of arts and culture, and we are

96 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

BOWERS MUSEUM

IMAGE PROVIDED COURTESY OF SCAD

F

Guo Pei “Courtyard Collection, Look 1 Spring/Summer 2016”

or years, Bowers Museum has brought the world to Orange County, with exhibits of the Dead Sea Scrolls, China’s Terra Cotta Warriors, and Egyptian mummies, among many others.

Now the museum brings Orange County to the world, with robust digital programming that originated in the wake of COVID-19.

“We’ve permanently adopted a hybrid system, offering almost all of our programs both on-site and online to serve the needs of our growing community, which is tuning in from all over the world,” says Peter Keller, Bowers president.

“From our free Educator Guides being downloaded in Norway to our Free Family Festivals being livestreamed across the United States, the museum connects people and resources in a way that we just weren’t able to before.”

Even though the Santa Ana museum has gone global, the needs of local audiences are still at the forefront.

“The most important programs we have are those that provide opportunities for our underserved communities,” Keller says.

“Many O.C. museums have come to recognize the importance of this responsibility, and the Bowers Museum is proud to have a leading role. With school programs for low-income students dating back decades, in recent years the Bowers has grown to provide an array of free and discounted programs for senior enrichment, Title I schools, and those most severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.”

Keller adds that the Bowers, with its focus on world-class art and artifacts, fills a different niche than other local museums. “A trip to the Bowers and the other amazing museums in Orange County ensures there’s something for everyone.

Together, we’ve created a network of cultural institutions that Orange County, and truly Southern California, can be proud of.”

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 97

arts P R E V I E W HILBERT MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA ART

¼ Admire the rich textures and colors of the works in “Voices in Pastel: Pastel Society of the West Coast” (through Dec. 3).

167 N. Atchison St., Orange, 714-516-5880, hilbertmuseum.com (On Dec. 17, the Hilbert will open at its temporary location, 216 E. Chapman Ave.)

98 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

IMAGES COURTESY OF LANGSON IMCA

Top: Kim Eshelman, “Suburban Dawn” Bottom: Morgan Green, “Rincon Fog”

IMAGES COURTESY OF HILBERT MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA ART

I

n 2024, the Hilbert Museum of California Art is scheduled to expand into a new space at Chapman University that will nearly triple the square footage (from 7,500 to 22,000). Two existing buildings will be joined by a courtyard expansive enough for outdoor events. A giant floating rectangle will crown the courtyard and display “Pleasures Along the Beach,” a 1969 glass mosaic by California artist Millard Sheets. Measuring 40 feet long and 16 feet high, the mural was rescued from a Home Savings Bank in Santa Monica that was scheduled for demolition.

But as Museum Director Mary Platt points out, “the excitement of a new building only lasts a year or two; it’s what’s inside that counts.”

On that score, the Hilbert succeeds admirably. Visitors can see works from the museum’s collection of 20th-century California scene paintings, American illustrations, and movie art—the last two are rich sources of inspiration for Chapman’s graphic design, film, and animation students.

Platt, who worked at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in its early days, understands the importance of programming and says it’s an area where O.C. museums shine.

“We’re revving up now that we are emerging from COVID with lectures, musical performances, and interactive programs for children and Chapman students,” she says. “These are the things that get people excited and bring them in to see what’s on the walls.”

And people have been coming.

The Hilbert had more than 30,000 visitors in the year before the pandemic started. It draws international tourists who come between trips to Disneyland and the beach, as well as patrons from L.A. “The concept of the Orange Curtain, in terms of the arts, is being demolished,” Platt says.

LANGSON IMCA

¼ The museum mounts its first concurrent exhibits: “Dissolve” showcases 20 works by contemporary artists, including two commissions, while “Echoes of Perception: Peter Alexander and California Impressionism” is a tribute to the late artist and the paintings that inspired him (“Dissolve” runs through Dec. 10; “Echoes of Perception” ends Jan. 14).

18881 Von Karman Ave., 949-476-0003, imca.uci.edu

IMAGES COURTESY OF LANGSON IMCA

IMAGES COURTESY OF HILBERT MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA ART

E

Top: Ana Teresa Fernández, “Of Bodies and Borders” Middle: Granville Redmond, “Untitled (Moonlight Marsh Scene)” Bottom: Peter Alexander, “Cloverfield I”

stablished in 2017, Langson IMCA has already shown steady growth.

While it is temporarily housed in an Irvine office building, the museum has an estimable permanent collection of 4,500-plus works and an ambitious vision inspired by artists with UC Irvine ties, including Chris Burden, Robert Irwin, and Alexis Smith.

“Langson IMCA benefits from a superb legacy—past and present—of arts faculty who have long championed innovation and experimentation,” museum director Kanatani says. “We aim to continue building on that spirit to become the epicenter for the study and appreciation of California Art and artists. Our mission is to examine, preserve, and present the artistic response to the state’s diverse social, cultural, and natural environments.”

In a few years, Langson IMCA will move into its home on the UC Irvine North Campus. In the meantime, Kanatani is exploring ways to bring the collection to the campus and the community with wall projections, pop-ups, and collaborations. The museum also offers a mix of programming, in person (a new series that includes lectures and plein-air painting workshops) and digital (“Beyond the Frame: Impressions of California,” an audio-visual experience created by design studio Imaginary Places premiering on the website Oct. 13). Naturally, with Langson IMCA under the auspices of UC Irvine, learning and research will be paramount.

“Imagine having faculty and scholars, artists, art critics, and educators from around the globe in residence in the institute and generating new research on California Art and then be able to disseminate that research to a broader public through the museum’s exhibitions and programs,” Kanatani says.

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 99

arts P R E V I E W

MUZEO MUSEUM A N D C U LT U R A L CENTER

100 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

214 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714-765-6450, muzeo.org

IMAGES COURTESY OF LAGUNA ART MUSEUM

 The world premiere of “Houdini Unchained: The Legacy of Harry Houdini” is a personal look at the master escape artist, with props from his illusions (Oct. 8 through Jan. 22).

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MUZEO MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER

E

xecutive Director Kelly Chidester emphasizes the Anaheim museum’s role as a community gathering place, which she says is especially vital during this time of continued social unrest.

“A lot of people are engaging with their mental health, and museums are providing safe spaces for them to take a step back from the notso-great parts of life to reflect, but also to have the diff icult conversations that are essential right now,” Chidester says.

Muzeo hosts touring exhibitions because it doesn’t have a permanent collection to draw from, and Chidester programs those shows focusing on their cultural and scholarly aspects. For instance, a recent exhibit, “Same Game, Diff erent Smokers,” examined the advertising imagery the tobacco industry has used to market products to the Black community and the historical and societal implications of those campaigns.

“We can be broader with subject matter—our exhibits cover fine arts, humanities, history, or science,” Chidester says. “We also consider how it will play within the community: Will our patrons see something they haven’t seen before? We’re constantly engaging with the community and work closely with the city of Anaheim to get input.”

Muzeo’s commitment to the community has spawned what Chidester calls “a museum without walls.” In addition to exhibits in its four galleries, Muzeo also hosts virtual shows and programming and an annual children’s festival at Pearson Park.

“Museums need to diversify their off erings to be successful,” Chidester says. “I’m excited to see museums breaking down financial barriers and providing more points of access for patrons. Museums are for everybody.”

 The 10th anniversary of the Art & Nature Festival includes “The Sea Around Us,” a 360-degree video installation

by Rebeca Méndez, above, and “Pyramidion,” at leftt , Kelly Berg’s interactive sculptural experience spread out over the nearby park and beach (Nov. 3 through 6).

LAGUNA ART MUSEUM IMAGES COURTESY OF LAGUNA ART MUSEUM

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MUZEO MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER

307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949-494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org

J

ulie Perlin Lee, Laguna Art Museum’s executive director, grew up in Orange County and has seen its cultural metamorphosis firsthand.

“This is such an exciting time for me. I was always told I had to leave O.C. to be part of a culturally relevant institution, but there’s no denying now that you can be part of a fantastic cultural experience here,” she says. “Of course, with OCMA, those of us who love museums have been waiting decades for this opening and I’m cheering them on.” Echoing many

local museum administrators, Perlin Lee says OCMA’s expansion brings only good news for other museums: “A rising tide raises all boats.”

Laguna Art Museum is the grande dame of local museums. Founded in 1918 by artists embedded in the community, “we’re grounded in a history that was highly influential as one of the original artist colonies in California,” Perlin Lee says. “They were real trendsetters in art and visionaries in their own right.” The museum honors that legacy while also drawing a throughline to modern and contemporary works. For a recent exhibit of modernist painter Francis De Erdely’s portraits of immigrant workers, the

museum brought in artist John Sonsini to talk about the commonalities between their works, even though they were produced decades apart.

Perlin Lee adds that Laguna Art Museum’s coastal location gives it a certain earthiness. “We have worldclass art, but we don’t mind if you have sand between your toes; there’s a warmth and comfort here that I love.” That ambience is significant.

“An article recently came out about how being around artwork reduces anxiety and depression, and we all need that uplift ,” she says. “Being in a room and looking at something together is a shared experience, and that’s important.”

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 101

arts P R E V I E W

International Appeal

Irvine Barclay Theatre’s 2022-23 season has a wealth of worldly influence. More than half of the live performances have ties to places outside the U.S. mainland.

HAITI

H AWA I I

George Kahumoku Jr., Daniel Ho, and Tia Carrere Oct. 15 Keola Beamer & Henry Kapono, with Moanalani Beamer Jan. 13 Kaleo Phillips April 14

MEXICO

Aida Cuevas accompanied by Mariachi Aztlan Sept. 30 Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles and Villalobos Brothers April 28

102 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

CANADA

Violinist Dennis Kim of Trio Barclay, raised in Toronto Nov. 20 Jan. 15

SCOTLAND

Alan Cumming, actor, author, singer Nov. 16

ENGLAND

Nigella Lawson, food personality Nov. 26

FRANCE

Cyrille Aimée, jazz vocalist Feb. 11

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE

Singer Nathalie Joachim, whose family is from a rural village in Haiti April 1

S PA I N BELGIUM TA I WA N

Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Tsai Tsi Hung; choreographers from Philadelphiabased BalletX Jan. 24

J A PA N

Midori, Osakaborn classical violinist April 16

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE

EGYPT

SOUTH AFRICA

Soweto Gospel Choir Oct. 20

Salwa Rizkalla, artistic director of Festival Ballet Theatre, presenting “The Nutcracker” Dec. 10 to 24 Festival Ballet Theatre, “Swan Lake” March 18 and 19

S O U T H KO R E A

INDIA

Zakir Hussain, Masters of Percussion March 16

IRAN

Vocalist Mahsa Vahdat with the Kronos Quartet Oct. 21

Cellist Jonah Kim from Trio Barclay, born in South Korea Nov. 20 Jan. 15 Curtis on Tour featuring Korean American violinist Soovin Kim March 11

INDONESIA

Joey Alexander, jazz pianist May 19

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 103

arts P R E V I E W

Outside SCR Outside SCR will be heading into its third season next summer. How did the idea come about?

I came into this job (less than a year) before the pandemic, and I didn’t make it through the first season I programmed as artistic director. I had always thought about the fact that there wasn’t much outdoor theater in Orange County, since I have a background in that with things like Shakespeare festivals. So in the early days of COVID-19, I thought, “Well we’re not going to be producing inside; this is the perfect opportunity to engage with the community in new ways.”

What was it like putting together the first show?

It was galvanizing, 104 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

daunting, terrifying, exciting. The Mission is really the most perfect partner. I walked into the courtyard and said, “This is it!” And we didn’t look back.

How different is it from putting together the regular season?

We do a lot of heavy hitting plays at South Coast Repertory, many that are emotional and challenging. This is an opportunity to have a pleasant evening out. The sort of joke I tell about what we’re looking for with Outside SCR is, “What would go (well) with a beach chair and a margarita or a glass of chardonnay?” I’m sort of joking, but kind of not. I want people to feel like they can be in flip-flops and bring their homecooked meal and be ex-

posed to theater in a way you can’t be anywhere else.

wrap its arms around the community, that the whole family will enjoy.

This year’s show, “Million Dollar Quartet,” was a big hit—what might be next?

Yes, there aren’t a lot of perfect jukebox musicals, but that was about as close as it comes. Hit after hit and based on a real story. I can’t say what’s next, yet, but I will say we’re always looking for stuff that folds in more than one discipline. With theater outdoors, the magic has to come not just from the story but also the environment. We don’t control the lighting until 9 o’clock.

So if you have heightened stuff like music, dance, or heightened speech like with Shakespeare, you have so many experiences to enjoy. Stuff that will

What started as a pandemic necessity now seems to have evolved beyond that. Was it an easy decision to keep Outside SCR going?

It was a pretty easy thing for us to commit to because I came into this job with a vision of deepening our connection to the community, reflecting where we live, and getting new butts in seats. So when the first markers came back that 30 to 40 percent of the audience had never been to a show at South Coast Repertory, and when I saw the multigenerational families gathered, it was an emotional and powerful experience.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNY GRAHAM, COURTESY OF SOUTH COAST REPERTORY

South Coast Repertory Creative Director David Ivers discusses the theater’s summer collaboration with Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Heartbeat of Mexico

Gabriela Casteneda, president of Chapman University’s Latinx Staff and Faculty Forum, elaborates on the group’s collaboration with Musco Center for the Arts.

The Heartbeat of Mexico festival started in May of 2016. The Musco Center did a phenomenal job of partnering with us to take into account our opinions and perspectives on what this celebration should look like, from the headliners to the food.

They really listened to members of the Latinx community, particularly to the Mexican community. For me as a Mexican American, it was really refreshing and heartwarming to see that they wanted to bring in our culture, which is so rich and familyoriented, to the campus.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNY GRAHAM, COURTESY OF SOUTH COAST REPERTORY

It’s a multiday celebration that takes place on Memorial Day weekend each year. There are ticketed shows each night, usually Mexican singers or artists—everything from mariachi to pop stars. And the last day is the outdoor festival where we sort of take over the campus and have a few stages with performances going on, food trucks, craft s for kids, dancing.

It’s a free festival, and everyone of all ages just enjoys themselves while celebrating our culture. And it helps promote Chapman as a place where future students can come and feel that they are welcome.

As a mother of two Mexican American boys, bringing them to this event fills me with pride because they can see a part of our culture and learn more about our heritage. And the feedback that we’ve gotten from our guests has been incredibly positive.

People, multiple generations of families, come back year after year.

One thing that is really moving for me is that it’s not just the Latinx community. This event is open to everyone, and seeing others from different backgrounds coming and enjoying it is really emotional for me. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 105

arts P R E V I E W

1920: Oct. 22

1922: Aug. 11

1924

1942

1950s & 1960s

The Laguna Playhouse is founded. Plays are performed in private homes.

The first full production, “Suppressed Desires”

by Susan Glaspell, is presented in an old vulcanizing shop.

The Playhouse, built at a cost of $5,000, opens at 319 Ocean Ave. and serves as the home of The Laguna Playhouse through 1969.

The Playhouse closes for the first time to temporarily house USO soldiers during WWII.

The Playhouse is rented for many summers to independent producers of summer stock, featuring stars such as Nanette Fabray and Roddy MacDowell, and future stars such as Barbara Eden and Marlo Thomas.

Bette Davis and Barry Sullivan perform in a one-night fundraiser for Laguna Playhouse (1960).

1999

2000

2002

2006

2014

The Playhouse’s critically acclaimed production of “The Last Session” transfers to a commercial run in Los Angeles.

The Playhouse produces Julie Harris’ “The Belle of Amherst” and tours it nationally to 18 cities.

The Playhouse is the first professional resident theater licensed to produce the Tony Award-winning play “Copenhagen,” and tours it nationally to 24 cities.

The production of “Constant Star” wins five prestigious NAACP Theatre Awards.

First annual Lythgoe Family Panto, “A Snow White Christmas,” is presented.

106 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE

100+ Years at Laguna Playhouse

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE

1964-65

1965

1969: September

1 9 8 7-1 9 8 8

1998

The first season of South Coast Repertory is presented at The Laguna Playhouse.

A young Harrison Ford appears in Stephen Vincent Benet’s “John Brown’s Body.”

The Moulton Theatre opens at 606 Laguna Canyon Road, its current location.

The production of “Quilters” wins the Regional American Association of Community Theatre Finals, directed by Laguna Beach’s own Teri Ralston.

After a smash-hit run and revival, the Playhouse’s West Coast premiere production of “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” transfers to a commercial run in Los Angeles.

2015

2016

2018

2020

2021

World premiere of Gretchen Cryer in “I’m Still Getting My Act Together,” produced by Jon Cryer

Rita Rudner and Charles Shaughnessy star in the U.S. premiere of “Act 3.”

Melanie Griffith stars in “The Graduate.”

The Playhouse closes its doors for the first time since WWII because of COVID-19, halting a box office record-breaking run of “Barefoot in the Park” starring Rita Rudner.

The Playhouse returns to live theater after a 19-month break with a revival of “Sh-Boom: Life Could Be a Dream.”

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 107

arts P R E V I E W

5 Q U ESTION S WITH …

Dennis Kim

The Pacific Symphony concertmaster has led orchestras in Hong Kong, Seoul, Finland, and Buff alo, N.Y. So he has clout when he says Orange County has some of the best food in the world. The violinist for Trio Barclay and instructor at UC Irvine and Orange County School of the Arts also spends time in L.A. recording studios making movie and TV soundtracks: “Everything you all watch on the big screen and on Netflix,” he says.

What was your biggest challenge during stay-at-home orders?

Not being able to perform and see the audience. Not being able to make music with my colleagues. … The scariest thing was we didn’t know when it was going to start up again. After a short bit, we could do stuff online and stay connected. But every musician and artist was in the same boat.

108 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

Is there something that might surprise people about you?

Growing up in Toronto, I was not a kid who just played music. I played all sports—hockey and even high school football. Today I play racquetball, pickleball, tennis, golf—I’m at the gym every day.

Favorite O.C. restaurant?

There are so many. Our family choice for birthdays is Javier’s. Both of them—the one in Irvine and the one in Crystal Cove.

Where do you take tourists in O.C.?

Friends come see me perform, so I show them Segerstrom, the Barclay Theatre, and South Coast Repertory. Food-based, we have the best Asian food in the world. We go to BCD Tofu House, Chai Lan, Honey Pig Korean BBQ, and lots of pho places my daughters love.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

Some of our biggest (Pacific Symphony) fans were still cautious about coming out. Hopefully more people come out so we can have the huge audiences we had before the pandemic. For Trio Barclay, we have three world premieres written for us. It’s important to play new music because without it, our art form will die. photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

The Guilds

Susan Condrey, newest chairperson, shares the purpose behind the support group for Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

What are The Guilds?

Prior to the building of the performing arts center, there was a group of people who thought it would be wonderful if they didn’t have to drive to L.A. all the time to see the theater or symphony. In 1978, Thomas Moon was the president of Orange County Music Center, and he asked a woman named Georgia Spooner to see what she could do to form a group to raise money. Georgia started by having some tea (parties) and then pretty quickly within O.C., there were a whole lot of people who were involved in trying to promote what became a performing arts center. My mother, Laura Condrey, was a charter member of one of the first chapters, Stage Door. They were chartered in 1980. They quickly grew, and soon there were 4,000 Guilds members. Everybody was just committed to this single goal of building a world-class performing arts center, which they did.

Now that it’s all built, The Guilds focuses our support on education and community involvement programs put on

by Segerstom Center for the Arts.

What types of programs and events are available?

The Center promotes (programs such as) Disney Musicals in Schools and Five Days of Broadway for high school youth, where they are taught by people who are working in the theater. We have all kinds of programs; they just go on and on. We have wonderful events on Argyros Plaza that are for the community, and most of them are free or very nominally priced. Because we want to be inclusive of the entire county, there are certain shows for our family series that are for people (with individual needs) to support their enjoyment of a performance. The chapters of The Guilds support all those.

¼UPCOMING 9th Annual Fashion Show & Lunch Oct. 15 at Westin, South Coast Plaza Hotel Tickets: $110 for adults; $40 for children

Contact: Bonne Wheeler at lamar.w@cox.net or Judy Kelley at jakelley2@live.com

Tell us about your role as chairperson.

I was just installed as the new chairperson of The Guilds on June 16. It is such an honor and privilege because there were people there in the room who knew my mom; they wrote me cards that said, “She’d be so proud of you.” My goal as chair is to see how we can grow and promote The Guilds throughout the entire county. I am also chair of one of the chapters called Sound of Music, whose funds go directly to support Studio D, which is the center’s on-site school for arts for all abilities and ages.

How can readers get involved?

The best way would be to contact me at susancondrey@gmail.com or 949-407-6080.

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 109

Casa Kids

In previous years, Casa Romantica has held music and dance summer academies for children ages 8 through 17. The group plans to rework those programs for bigger and better experiences in 2023. Check casaromantica.org to find out about upcoming programs.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING:

Oc t . 1 The L.A. Troupe Presents Edgar Allan Poe Part of the Casa Kids Concert Series, this daytime show features short performances of “The Tell-Tale Heart,” “The Raven,” and other spooky stories by the acclaimed writer that are sure to get you into the Halloween spirit.

First Sunday of the Month D. Yoder Family Sundays Take advantage of free admission along with performances and activities. The event on Jan. 1 will be dedicated to young musicians and dancers.

Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22 Paint and Play Recommended for ages 2 through 5, this four-session arts and crafts series allows toddlers to get hands-on with a curriculum developed by early childhood educators.

Dec. 1 through 22 Casa Lumina Tour the grounds and take in the holiday lights with the whole family. There’s live music, hot cocoa, and many teenage musicians, including some Casa Academy alums.

Dec. 10 Cookie Decorating With Mrs. Claus Celebrate the holidays while decorating festive treats with Santa’s better half. Appropriate for kids 12 and under.

110 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

Classes at the Muck

Unlock your creativity or hone your skills at Muckenthaler Cultural Center.

SIX- WEEK COURSES:

Ceramics Course Beginners are introduced to the basics of throwing on a potter’s wheel.

Everyday Creative Ceramics Create your own utilitarian and decorative ceramic pieces for everyday use. Techniques used include hand-building, wheel-throwing, and the Buncheong technique, a special decoration skill with white slip, rooted in Korean traditional pottery.

Freestyle Design Create a variety of multidisciplinary art projects using watercolor, acrylic painting, color pencil, and ceramics.

POP - UP CLASSES:

Boro + Shashiko Learn basic hand-sewing techniques in the context of this traditional Japanese practice of mending.

Stippling Drawing Techniques Create a portrait, still life, or abstract drawing using a technique that renders soft gradient textures.

Color Collages Meld color images together to create a collage.

Introduction to Bookbinding Learn the four staple structures of the bookbinding world: the pamphlet stitch, two versions of one-sheet wonders, and a concertina.

WRITTEN BY ALAN GIBBONS, ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN, AND CHELSEA RAINERI

PERFORMANCE PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CASA ROMANTICA; CERAMICS PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER

arts P R E V I E W

1 1 .1 2 . 2 2 – 5 .1 4 . 2 3

Enter a world of fantasy.

Tickets at bowers.org

Untitled-2 1

8/22/22 9:36 AM

arts P R E V I E W

“ 13 Women” at OCMA

Season at a Glance OCTOBER

Through Jan. 14 LANGSON IMCA “Echoes of Perception: Peter Alexander and California Impressionism” Through Oct. 23 CHANCE THEATER “The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity” Oct. 1 through Jan. 15 LAGUNA ART MUSEUM “Photography and Seduction: William Mortensen’s Laguna Beach” Oct. 1 SAMUELI THEATER Samara Joy

Oct. 1 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Southborder & Neocolours

Oct. 2 through 23 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY “Nina Simone: Four Women” Oct. 5 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS DakhaBrakha—Direct from Ukraine Oct. 6 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” Oct. 6 through Dec. 8 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER “Intercultural”

Oct. 7 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Rick Braun Plays the Standards & More Oct. 8 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Bill Engvall: Here’s Your Sign— It’s Finally Time: The Farewell Tour Opens Oct. 8 ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART “13 Women” “California Biennial 2022” Peter Walker: “Minimalist Landscape” Fred Eversley: “Reflecting Back (the World)” Sanford Biggs: “Of Many Waters”

Oct. 8 through Jan. 22 MUZEO MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER “Houdini Unchained: The Legacy of Harry Houdini” Through Oct. 9 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE “Kim’s Convenience” Oct. 9 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Hamid Saeidi Oct. 9 SAMUELI THEATER Apollon Musagete & Garrick Ohlsson Oct. 13 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Randy Otto as Winston Churchill

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 113

arts P R E V I E W

Cloud Gate Dance Theatr e o f Taiw an will be at S eger s tr om Center f or the Ar t s

Opens Oct. 13 LANGSON IMCA “Beyond the Frame: Impressions of California” Oct. 14 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Judy Collins Oct. 15 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony: Duruflé + Hagen

Through Oct. 16 SEGERSTROM HALL “Hamilton” Oct. 19 and 20 CASA ROMANTICA Woodie and the Longboards Oct. 20 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Soweto Gospel Choir Oct. 20 through 22 SAMUELI THEATER Chris Mann

Oct. 15 SAMUELI THEATER Judy Whitmore and Billy Grubman

Oct. 20 through 22 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto

Oct. 15 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Masters of Hawaiian Music: George Kahumoku Jr., Daniel Ho, and Tia Carrere

Oct. 21 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Kronos Quartet with Mahsa Vahdat

Oct. 15 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Booker T. Jones—60 Years of Green Onions 114 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

Oct. 21 through Nov. 6 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE “Death by Design”

Oct. 26 SEGERSTROM HALL Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan

Oct. 29 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Rocky Dawuni

Oct. 27 through 29 CASA ROMANTICA Casa Creepy Haunted House

Oct. 29 and 30 SAMUELI THEATER “Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster”

Oct. 27 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Muckenthaler After Dark: Beyond the Black Veil Oct. 28 HONDA CENTER The Who Oct. 28 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS “The Just and the Blind” Oct. 29 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in Concert

Oct. 30 through Nov. 13 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE “Love Among the Ruins”

NOVEMBER Nov. 2 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS An Evening with George Takei Nov. 2 SAMUELI THEATER Calidore String Quartet Nov. 2 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Belinda Carlisle

Segerstrom Center Presents

So much more to explore at our intimate Samueli Theater!

Chamber

Apollon Musagete and Garrick Ohlsson • Oct 9 Calidore String Quartet • Nov 2

Cabaret

Chris Mann • Oct 20–22 Jessica Vosk • Nov 17–19 The Broadway Hollywood Holiday Songbook • Dec 15–17

Jazz

Samara Joy • Oct 1 Vijay Iyer Trio • Nov 5

scfta.org

arts P R E V I E W Nov. 25 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE “Kinky Boots” screening Nov. 25 through Dec. 18 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Nov. 25 through 27 CURTIS THEATRE Christmas with the Alley Cats Nov. 26 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Nigella Lawson Nov. 26 through Dec. 24 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”

DECEMBER A Big B ad Voodoo Daddy Chris tma s will be at Ir vine B ar clay Theatr e

Dec. 1 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE A Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Christmas

Nov. 3 SEGERSTROM HALL Bodytraffic

Nov. 9 through 27 SEGERSTROM HALL “Moulin Rouge! The Musical”

Nov. 16 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Alan Cumming

Dec. 1 through 3 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Milos Plays Rodrigo

Nov. 3 CASA ROMANTICA Ayane & Paul

Nov. 9 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Farruquito Flamenco

Nov. 17 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Smetena Trio

Dec. 1 and 3 HONDA CENTER Jo Koy

Nov. 17 through 19 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “The Planets”

Dec. 1 through 22 CASA ROMANTICA Casa Lumina Holiday Walk

Nov. 4 through 20 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY “Snow White” Nov. 4 and 5 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: John Williams: A 90th Birthday Celebration Nov. 5 HONDA CENTER The B-52s Nov. 5 SAMUELI THEATER Vijay Iyer Trio Nov. 5 and 6 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Artistic License Fair Nov. 8 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Lila Downs 116 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

Nov. 10 CASA ROMANTICA HyeJin Kim Nov. 11 HONDA CENTER Greta Van Fleet Nov. 12 and 13 SAMUELI THEATER “North” Nov. 12 through May 14 BOWERS MUSEUM “Guo Pei: Art of Couture”

Nov. 18 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Grace Kelly at the Movies Nov. 19 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Peisha McPhee, Adriana McPhee, and Katharine McPhee-Foster

Nov. 13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Viano String Quartet

Nov. 20 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Vienna Boys Choir: “Christmas in Vienna”

Nov. 16 HONDA CENTER The Smashing Pumpkins and Jane’s Addiction

Nov. 20 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Trio Barclay: Schubert and Chang

Dec. 4 HONDA CENTER Andrea Bocelli Dec. 4 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Handel’s Glorious Messiah Dec. 4 SEGERSTROM HALL Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Dec. 8 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Storm Large

Segerstrom Center Presents

One-night-only performances!

Belinda Carlisle Nov 2 • 8 pm

Lila Downs Nov 8 • 8 pm

Mannheim Steamroller Dec 4 • 7 pm

Chita Rivera Dec 11 • 2 pm

scfta.org

arts P R E V I E W

“Nochebuena : Chris tma s Eve in Me xico” will be at Musco

Dec. 8 through 30 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE “Wonderful Winter of Oz: A Holiday Panto”

Dec. 15 through 17 SAMUELI THEATER The Broadway Hollywood Holiday Songbook

Dec. 8 and 9 CASA ROMANTICA Casa Nutcracker

Dec. 15 through 18 CURTIS THEATRE “It’s a Wonderful Life” a Live Radio Play

Dec. 9 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Mavis Staples and Kandace Springs Dec. 9 through 18 SEGERSTROM HALL American Ballet Theatre: “The Nutcracker” Dec. 10 through 24 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Festival Ballet Theater: “The Nutcracker” Dec. 11 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Chita Rivera Dec. 12 and 13 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE The Skivvies: “Sleigh My Name” 118 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

Dec. 16 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Max Amini Dec. 16 and 17 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Holiday Pops with the Manhattan Transfer Dec. 18 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Holiday Festival Dec. 18 and 19 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Chorale: “Tis the Season!”

Dec. 19 and 20 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE “Sister’s Christmas Catechism” Dec. 20 SEGERSTROM HALL Alton Brown Live Dec. 20 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Holiday Organ Spectacular Dec. 22 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS “Nochebuena: Christmas Eve in Mexico” Dec. 23 SEGERSTROM HALL Johnny Mathis Christmas Concert Dec. 27 through Jan. 8 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS “To Kill a Mockingbird” Dec. 31 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE Rita Rudner: “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like New Year’s”

JANUARY Jan. 6 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Brian Stokes Mitchell Jan. 8 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE “Prima Facie” with Jodie Comer Jan. 12 through 14 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “Mahler 9” Jan. 13 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Legends: Keola Beamer & Henry Kapono, with Moanalani Beamer Jan. 15 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Trio Barclay: Tchaikovsky and Arroyo Jan. 19 through 21 SAMUELI THEATER Jane Lynch and Kate Flannery

Segerstrom Center Presents

Dance

BODYTRAFFIC November 3

Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan 13 Tongues

October 26

American Ballet Theatre

The Nutcracker December 9–18

Farruquito Flamenco November 9

The Center's International Dance Series is made possible by the Audrey Steele Burnand Endowed Fund for International Dance and The Segerstrom Foundation Endowment for Great Performances

scfta.org

arts P R E V I E W Feb. 2 through 4 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Bronfman plays Schumann Feb. 3 through 19 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE “Strangers on a Train” Feb. 4 SAMUELI THEATER Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents “Sing & Swing” Feb. 5 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “Romeo and Juliet”

Danny Gr een Trio will be at C a s a Romantica

Jan. 28 through Feb. 26 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY “Appropriate” Jan. 28 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Lunar New Year

“Stranger s on a Train” will be at C amino Real Playhouse

Jan. 19 CASA ROMANTICA Orchestra Collective of Orange County

Jan. 23 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Amy Tan

Jan. 20 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE A Conversation with John Lithgow

Jan. 24 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE BalletX

Jan. 21 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Aaron Diehl Trio: Bach to Bebop Jan. 22 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Respighi and Beethoven with Shunta Morimoto

120 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

Jan. 25 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Monterey Jazz Festival on Tour Jan. 27 CASA ROMANTICA Danny Green Trio Jan. 27 SAMUELI THEATER Takacs Quartet

Jan. 29 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Bob Baker Marionettes Jan. 29 through Feb. 26 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY “The Little Foxes” Jan. 31 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Dover Quartet

FEBRUARY Feb. 1 through 19 SEGERSTROM HALL “Frozen” Feb. 1 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE “H.M.S. Pinafore” by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players

Feb. 6 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Fran Lebowitz Feb. 9 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Patti LuPone Feb. 9 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE “On Broadway” Feb. 10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE The Blind Boys of Alabama Feb. 10 and 11 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Valentine’s Day with The Righteous Brothers Feb. 10 through 26 CURTIS THEATRE “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder” Feb. 11 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Cyrille Aimée Feb. 16 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Rosanne Cash Duo Feb. 17 CASA ROMANTICA Ballet Romantica with the City Ballet of San Diego

2022/2023 FALL PREVIEW

SOKA.EDU/PAC | 949.480.4278 TICKETS ON SALE NOW

GREAT PIANISTS

SPECIAL EVENTS

Stephen Kovacevich Sunday, October 23

Storm Large Thursday, December 8

Vadym Kholodenko Sunday, October 30

LEGENDS

Seong-Jin Cho Friday, December 9

SUNDAYS@SOKA

Judy Collins Friday, October 14 Karla Bonoff & David Lindley Saturday, October 22

Pacific Symphony with George Li Sunday, October 9

WORLD

PSOC SERIES

Celtic Christmas with Titanic Piper Eric Rigler Sunday, December 11

Vienna Boys Choir Sunday, November 20 Seong-Jin Cho Friday, December 9

JAZZ & BLUES Elvin Bishop & Charlie Musselwhite Saturday, October 1 Booker T. Jones Saturday, October 15 Mike Wofford Tribute Saturday, November 19

Rocky Dawuni Saturday, October 29

CHAMBER MUSIC Hub New Music with Kojiro Umezaki Sunday, November 6 Viano String Quartet Sunday, November 13

EXPANDING HORIZONS Vital Sounds: The Intersection of Art and Music – Can Music Make You Well?

Friday, October 21

Storm Large Thurs, Dec 8 at 8PM

LISTEN. FEEL. TRANSFORM. SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

1 UNIVERSITY DR, ALISO VIEJO, CA 92656 | FREE PARKING

10082B_OCMag_Arts_FP_Large10-1.indd 1

8/25/22 2:35 PM

arts P R E V I E W March 12 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Alisa Weilerstein March 16 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Lucia Micarelli Quartet March 16 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Zakir Hussain and the Masters of Percussion March 16 through 18 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Tao Plays Mozart March 18 and 19 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Festival Barclay Theatre: “Swan Lake” March 18 and 19 SAMUELI THEATER “Ugly Duckling” March 22 SAMUELI THEATER Camerata RCO Pilobolus will be at Musco Center

Feb. 22 SAMUELI THEATER Quartetto di Cremona Feb. 23 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Pilobolus

MARCH March 1 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Lawrence Brownlee: Songs from the Harlem Renaissance

Feb. 23 SEGERSTROM HALL “Bluey’s Big Play”

March 2 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Beth Sussman

Feb. 23 through 25 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Tchaikovsky and Strauss

March 3 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Lyric Opera OC: “Roméo et Juliette”

Feb. 24 through March 12 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE “Over the River and Through the Woods” Feb. 26 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Diane Schuur

122 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

March 4 SAMUELI THEATER Somos Amigos March 4 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Preservation Hall Jazz Band March 5 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Mandy Gonzales and Javier Munoz

March 5 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Isaac Mizrahi March 6 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Erik Larson March 7 through 19 SEGERSTROM HALL “Mean Girls” March 8 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Brooke Gladstone March 10 CASA ROMANTICA Alicia Olatuja March 10 and 11 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony with Kristin Chenoweth March 11 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Curtis on Tour

March 25 SAMEULI THEATER The Cookers March 26 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Nowruz: Iranian New Year March 29 through April 2 SEGERSTROM HALL American Ballet Theatre: “Like Water for Chocolate” March 30 through April 1 SAMUELI THEATER Broadway the Calla-Way! March 30 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Steep Canyon Rangers March 31 through April 16 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE “It Runs in the Family”

APRIL April 1 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Nathalie Joachim

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8/26/2022 4:12:53 PM

arts P R E V I E W April 1 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Organist Anna Lapwood April 2 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Jean-Yves Thibaudet April 3 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Wynton Marsalis Quintet April 3 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE “Sister’s Easter Catechism” April 4 SEGERSTROM HALL Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott April 7 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL George Benson W ynton Mar s alis will be at Ir vine B ar clay Theatr e

April 8 SEGERSTROM HALL Dorrance Dance

April 8 through May 6 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY “Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical” April 12 through 16 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE “My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish, and I’m in Therapy” April 14 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Kaleo Phillips April 14 and 15 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Gloria Gaynor—Queen of Disco April 15 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Kenny Barron April 15 CURTIS THEATRE “Yesterday and Today— The Interactive Beatles Experience”

Season 2022-23

SEASON TICKETS MULTIPACK “3 OR 4 CONCERTS” SINGLE TICKETS To order Season or Multi-Pack Tickets please call our Box Office at (714) 731-8079 To order single tickets, or for detailed information about concert offerings | seating charts | ticket prices please visit our web site at www.southcoastsymphony.org CONCERT VENUES Coast Hills Auditorium Soka University’s Performing Arts Center All Concerts are on Saturday Evenings at 7:30 pm

arts P R E V I E W

2022-2023 SEASON SEPT 16 THRU OCT 2, 2022

NOV 25 THRU DEC 18, 2022

JAN 6 THRU JAN 15, 2023

FEB 3 THRU FEB 19, 2023

MAR 31 THRU APR 16, 2023

MAY 26 THRU JUN 11, 2023

OCT 21 THRU NOV 6, 2022 FEB 24 THRU MAR 12, 2023

APR 21 THRU MAY 7, 2023

caminorealplayhouse.org 31776 El Camino Real San Juan Capistrano

126 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

April 15 SAMUELI THEATER Emerson String Quartet

April 22 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Selected Shorts 2023

April 16 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER The Lucky Band

April 23 through May 14 SOUTH COAST REPERTORY “Coleman ’72”

April 16 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Midori Plays Bach

April 27 through 29 SAMUELI THEATER Jason Robert Brown

April 18 through 30 SEGERSTROM HALL “Hairspray”

April 28 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Dream House Quartet

April 19 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Formosa Quartet April 20 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Megan Hilty April 20, 22, and 25 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Verdi’s Rigoletto April 21 through May 7 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE “Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap” April 22 and 23 SAMUELI THEATER “Grimmz Fairy Tales”

April 28 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles & Villalobos Brothers April 28 CASA ROMANTICA Eric Rigler April 29 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS “Bone Hill: A Staged Concert—Martha Redbone” April 29 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Christian McBride’s New Jawn

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! JOIN US FOR THE ORANGE COUNTY GAY MEN’S CHORUS UPCOMING 2022-2023 SEASON!

Saturday, December 3, 2022 La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts A celebration of holiday music drawn from film and television.

rhinestone

COWBOyS

Saturday, April 8, 2023 Irvine Barclay Theatre

Yee-haw!!! Celebrating everything country in this wild west adventure.

boots, hats, & sass

Saturday, July 15, 2023 Irvine Barclay Theatre

A high-energy, explosive concert packed with wall-to-wall showstoppers!

“Hair spray ” will be at S eger s tr om Hall

866.636.2548 | www.ocgmc.org April 30 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Philharmonic Society presents LA Phil with Leila Josefowicz

MAY May 1 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE David Sedaris May 5 and 6 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: Music of the Rolling Stones May 6 and 7 SAMUELI THEATER Doktor Kaboom May 11 through June 15 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER 18th Annual Muck JazzFest May 11 through 13 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “The Roaring ’20s”

The Legacy of Harry Houdini October 8, 2022 - January 22, 2023

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 127

arts P R E V I E W May 12 through 14 SEGERSTROM HALL LA Dance Project: “Romeo & Juliet Suite” May 14 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “Rhapsody in Blue” May 16 through 21 SEGERSTROM HALL “Chicago” May 19 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Joey Alexander May 20 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony: Haydn + Price May 20 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE “Music of the Knights: Commemorating the majestic musical masterpieces of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber,

Sir Elton John, and Sir Paul McCartney” May 21 CURTIS THEATRE “The House of Flightless Birds” May 26 through June 11 CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE “The Sound of Music” May 27 SEGERSTROM HALL Alonzo King Lines Ballet

JUNE June 1 through 33 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “Grieg Piano Concerto” June 3 CURTIS THEATRE Orchestra Collective of Orange County Third Annual Summer Serenade

Art Installation Anywhere in Southern California Art Transportation and Shipping Secure, Climate Controlled Art Storage Pedestal and Crate Fabrication

Orange County Fine Art Storage Brian Ross • (714) 418-4400 bross@oc-fas.com

128 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

June 3 SEGERSTROM HALL Ballet BC June 9 and 10 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony with Renée Elise Goldsberry June 13 through 25 SEGERSTROM HALL “Six” June 15 through 17 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Pacific Symphony: “Cathedrals of Sound” June 16 through 25 CURTIS THEATRE “The Revolutionists” June 22 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Lyric Opera of Orange County: “La Traviata”

June 24 RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Veronica Swift June 30 CASA ROMANTICA Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles

JULY July 11 through 23 SEGERSTROM HALL “Tina” July 27 CASA ROMANTICA Gilbert Castellanos

SEPTEMBER Sept. 5 through 10 SEGERSTROM HALL “The Book of Mormon”

B alle t Folklórico de L os Ángeles will be at C a s a Romantica

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 129

arts P R E V I E W

Founders Hall Soka University

SELECTED O.C. GALLERIES

FULLERTON

Founders Hall Soka University 1 University Drive 949-480-4081 soka.edu

IRVINE

ALISO VIEJO ANAHEIM

Artists Republic 400 W. Disney Way 949-988-0603 artists-republic.com

CORONA DEL MAR

Begovich Gallery Cal State Fullerton 800 State College Blvd.

657-278-7750 fullerton.edu

Art Resource Group 2082 Michelson Drive 949-640-1972 artresourcegroup.com CAC, Room, and University Art Galleries UC Irvine 949-824-9854 arts.uci.edu

SCAPE 2859 E. Coast Highway 949-723-3406 scapesite.com

Susan Spiritus Gallery 2070 Business Center Drive 714-754-1286 susanspiritusgallery.com

COSTA MESA

Village Gallery Irvine Spectrum Center 59 Fortune Drive 949-450-8282 villagegallery.com

The ARTery Gallery @ The Lab 2930 Bristol St. thelab.com Daniel Oropeza Original Sculpture 1041 W. 18th St. 949-650-6169 danieloropeza.com LIULI Gallery 3333 Bristol St. 714-438-8888 liuliusa.com Martin Lawrence Galleries South Coast Plaza 3333 Bear St. 949-759-0134 martinlawrence.com Randy Higbee Gallery 102 Kalmus Drive 714-546-2156 randyhigbeegallery.com 130 O R A N G E C O A S T • October 2022

LAGUNA BEACH Artist Eye Laguna Gallery 1294 S. Coast Highway 949-497-5898 artisteyegallerylaguna.com Avran Art & Design 540 S. Coast Highway 949-494-0900 avranart.com Dawson Cole Fine Art 326 Glenneyre St. 949-497-4988 dawsoncolefineart.com Forest & Ocean 480 Ocean Ave. 949-371-3313 forestoceangallery.com

JoAnne Artman Gallery 326 N. Coast Highway 949-510-5481 joanneartmangallery.com

Sue Greenwood Fine Art 330 N. Coast Highway 949-494-0669 suegreenwoodfineart.com

Kelsey Michaels Fine Art 354 N. Coast Highway kelseymichaels.com

Village Gallery 502 S. Coast Highway 949-494-3553 villagegallery.com

LCAD Gallery 374 Ocean Ave. 949-376-6000 lcad.edu Las Laguna Gallery 577 S. Coast Highway 949-667-1803 laslagunagallery.com Lu Martin Galleries 372 N. Coast Highway 949-494-8074 lumartingalleries.com Prima Fine Art Galllery 570 S. Coast Highway 949-715-0039 primafineartgallery.com Quorum Gallery 374 N. Coast Highway 949-494-4422 quorumgallery.com Redfern Gallery 1540 S. Coast Highway 949-497-3356 redferngallery.com saltfineart 1043 N. Coast Highway 949-715-5554 saltfineart.com Sandstone Gallery 384-A N. Coast Highway 949-497-6775 sandstonegallery.com Studio 7 Galleries 384-B N. Coast Highway 949-497-1080 studio7gallery.com

Wyland Galleries Laguna Beach 509 S. Coast Highway 949-376-8000 wylandgalleries.com

NEWPORT BEACH Ethos Contemporary Art Gallery 3405 Newport Blvd.

949-791-8917 ethoscontemporaryart.com Gray Matter Museum of Art 530 32nd St. gmmaca.org Huse Skelly Fine Art Gallery 229 Marine Ave. huseskellygallery.com Lahaina Galleries 1173 Newport Center Drive 949-721-9117 lahainagalleries.com

ORANGE Guggenheim Gallery Chapman University 1 University Drive 714-997-6800 guggenheimgallery.com

SAN CLEMENTE San Clemente Art Association Gallery 100 N. Calle Seville 949-492-7175 paintsanclemente.com

Begovich Gallery Cal State Fullerton

SCAPE

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

SANTA ANA

The Cott age Gallery 31701 Los Rios St. 949-340-6693 cott agegalleryonlosrios.com

Avantgarden—The Art Gallery 417-B N. Broadway 714-558-8843 avantgardenoc.com

Mission Fine Art Gallery 31760 Camino Capistrano 949-291-7738 missionfineart.gallery

Bear Street Gallery South Coast Plaza Village 3851 S. Bear St. 714-540-6430 ocfinearts.org

F+ Gallery 661 Poinsett ia St. 714-493-9430 facebook.com/fplusgallery Showcase Gallery South Coast Plaza Village 3851 S. Bear St. 714-540-6430 ocfinearts.org

SAVE 10% PROMO CODE: OC10

JoAnne Artman Gallery

TUSTIN Chemers Gallery 17300 E. 17th St. 714-731-5432 chemersgallery.com

FALL CONCERT SERIES 2022

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

TUACAHN.ORG

800-746-9882

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@orangecoastmag More info: orangecoast.com

S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

A GUIDE TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

&

HEALTH WELLNESS Simple solutions to help you prioritize health and wellness

October 2022 • Or a nge Coast 133

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A GUIDE TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE E

xperiencing vibrant health and vitality begins when you make taking care of “you” a priority. Whether that means exercising regularly, getting out in nature more often, unplugging from devices, or time well-spent with those you love, self-care matters. In this simple guide, we offer easy ways to look and feel your best and connect you with OC experts who can help you thrive during every stage of life.

FOCUS ON PHYSICAL FITNESS Walk it off. Studies show a brisk daily walk can help you maintain a healthy weight, strengthen muscles and bones, improve coordination and even boost your mood.

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S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

A GUIDE TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Guzzle your H2O. Resist your craving for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages and instead reach for water, water and more water. It will reduce puffi ness, make it easier to control your calorie intake and help you feel energized.

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October 2022 • Or a nge Coast 139

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

A GUIDE TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS Cultivate inner peace. Training in meditation makes our mind peaceful, and when our mind is peaceful, we are happy all the time, even if our external conditions are less than ideal.

Mahamudra Kadampa Meditation Center in Santa Ana offers the classes and guidance you need to achieve the peace you seek. meditationinorangecounty.org Pursue positivity. Read something inspirational each day and incorporate personal affirmations into your daily routine.

Streamline your socials. Taking a break from social media and other online activities can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve your sleep. Make it a practice to turn off your device at least an hour before bed and use the time to meditate, crack open a book or begin keeping a journal.

Feed your creativity. Paint, write, garden, cook, sew, redecorate a room–you might discover a new passion!

Help a loved one recover. With over 25 years of experience working with families, Susan Mehta’s purpose and passion is to help families motivate their loved ones into treatment and transform their lives. Discover experienced, professional and ethical intervention services nationally and internationally. Learn more: sminterventions.com Bring the outdoors in. Caring for houseplants is an effective way to help enhance your mood, problem-solving skills, and creativity. They also serve as natural air purifiers!

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THRIVE IN YOUR GOLDEN YEARS

Find your future home. Clear Choice Senior Services serves families and seniors in Orange County and has built a reputation as a trustworthy source of senior referrals and placements. With exceptional knowledge and compassion, these experts in senior placement can help match you or your loved one with the perfect home. Learn more at clearchoiceseniorservices.com Boost your brain fi tness. Taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill or even perfecting a foreign language and keep cognitive skills strong.

A GUIDE TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Assisted Living and ground-breaking, evidence-based Memory Care. With communities that are renowned for distinctive design and high standards of life safety, Belmont Village has a reputation for top-quality clinical care and leading-edge, award-winning programs. Visit belmontvillage.com/losangeles Stay social. After retirement, make a regular plan for getting out and being with people on a consistent basis.

Consider joining a hobby group or a local sports club.

Interacting with others helps you manage emotions, stress, and may even help you live longer!

Discover resort living. The Covington is a secluded, gated neighborhood of resort-style living in Aliso Viejo. Recognized as the best senior living retirement community in Orange County, where residents enjoy a wealth of amenities and activities, in an intimate, friendly community. Th roughout the landscaped grounds and thoughtfully designed residences, The Covington provides welcoming, casual sophistication and enviable retirement living. ecsforseniors.org/covington/about Stretch yourself. Aging can take a toll on the body, but stretching is a great way to reduce aches, loosen up muscles and relax your joints. Consider Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates.

Enjoy lasting peace of mind. Belmont Village is a nationally recognized provider of Independent Living,

MEDITATION FOR INNER PEACE AND HAPPINESS IN ORANGE COUNTY All of us wish to navigate through life feeling happy, content and at peace as much as possible. Right?

Learn techniques and methods for developing a new perspective with qualified contemporary meditation practices that will improve your everyday relationships and daily experiences.

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WEEKLY CLASS LOCATIONS

Please go to our website for more details on class locations and times:

Santa Ana | Fountain Valley | Yorba Linda | San Clemente | Huntington Beach

meditationinorangecounty.org info@MeditationInOrangeCounty.org | 949 350-3312 October 2022 • Or a nge Coast 141

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

A GUIDE TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

RESOURCE GUIDE A Perfect Fit Enderle Center 17300 E. 17th St., Ste. A Tustin, CA 92780 (714) 665-5994 aperfectfitonline.com -------------------Belmont Village Senior Living 300 Freedom Ln. Aliso Viejo, CA 9265 (949) 643-1050 belmontvillage.com -------------------Bikini Fit Club Newport Beach (949) 212-5445 bikinifitclub.com -------------------CHOC 1201 W. La Veta Ave. Orange, CA 92868 (714) 599-8808 | choc.org

Enagic 4115 Spencer St. Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 542-7700 enagic.com

UCI Health outpatient services 1640 Newport Blvd.

Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (714) 456-7720

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UCI Health — Newport Beach 2161 San Joaquin Hills Road Newport Beach, CA 92660

Kaiser Permanente (833) 574-2273 kp.kaiserpermanente.org Kaiser Permanente Orange County – Anaheim 3440 E. La Palma Ave. Anaheim, CA 92806 Kaiser Permanente Orange County – Irvine 6640 Alton Pkwy.

Irvine, CA 92618 Kaiser Permanente Health Pavillion 200 S. Lewis St. Orange, CA 92868

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Clear Choice Senior Services 146 W. Bastanchury Rd. Fullerton, CA 92835 (714) 404-8210 clearchoiceseniorservices.com --------------------

Mahamudra Kadampa Meditation Center 500 6th St. Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (310) 848-9680 meditationinthesouthbay.org

Concierge Podiatry & Spa 495 Old Newport Blvd.

Ste. 300 Newport Beach, CA 92663 (949) 650-1147 conciergepodiatryspa.com

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Providence St. Joseph Hospital Orange Lake Forest, CA 92630 (949) 510-8537 sminterventions.com --------------------

Council on Aging 2 Executive Circle, Ste. 175 Irvine, CA 92614 (714) 560-0424 (800) 434-0222 coasc.org/prevent -------------------The Covington 3 Pursuit Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 (949) 281-0174 thecovington.org -------------------Daniel S. Yanni, MD 1501 Superior Ave., Ste. 114 Newport Beach, CA 92663 (949) 515-0051 hoagmedicalgroup.com/physician/ daniel-yanni-md

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SM Interventions 1100 W. Stewart Dr. Orange, CA 92868 (714) 771-8000 Providence.org -------------------UCI Health ucihealth.org UCI Medical Center 101 The City Drive South Orange, CA 92868 (714) 456-7809 UCI Health Gottschalk Medical Plaza 1 Medical Plaza Drive Irvine, CA 92697 (949) 824-8600

UCI Health — Tustin 1451 Irvine Blvd.

Tustin, CA 92780 (714) 838-8878 UCI Health — Orange Main Street 293 S. Main St., Ste. 200 Orange, CA 92868 (714) 838-8848 UCI Health — Yorba Linda 18637 Yorba Linda Blvd.

Yorba Linda, CA 92886 (714) 790-8600 -------------------Senior Resource Group La Vida at Mission Viejo Independent & Assisted Living · Memory Care 27783 Center Drive Mission Viejo, CA 92692 (949) 625-1533 Lavidamissionviejo.com Las Palmas Independent & Assisted Living · Memory Care 24962 Calle Aragon Laguna Woods, CA 92637 (949) 382-1144 Laspalmasseniorliving.com The Regency Independent & Assisted Living 24441 Calle Sonora Laguna Woods, CA 92637 (949) 441-4177 Theregencyseniorliving.com The Wellington Independent & Assisted Living 24903 Moulton Parkway Laguna Woods, CA 92653 (949) 377-0292 Thewellingtonseniorliving.com

Discover the unsearchable Discover the forest

Find a trail near you at DiscoverTheForest.org

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DINING GUIDE

DINING GUIDE ORANGE COUNT Y’S DEFINITIVE SOURCE F O R R E S TAU R A N T N E W S & M I N I R E V I E W S P R I C I N G $$$ $50 and up $$ Less than $50 $ Mostly less than $25 Denotes Critic’s Choice restaurant

ANAHEIM BLUSKY RESTAURANT & BAR Gawk at the view from the 12-story rooftop digs, but know that Blusky’s Basque cuisine is what really makes this hotel restaurant Anaheim’s most interesting newcomer. Executive chef Edgar Beas is fresh off stints at Michelin-starred kitchens, applying mastery to a tight menu of Spanish dishes. Look for Iberico pork items, indulgent salt cod, and lobster paella. Late night, the place thumps with club action. Radisson Blu, 1601 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-4091458. Dinner only $$ NAPA ROSE Wine country thrives at the Disneyland Resort by way of this classy dinner house— no park admission required. Star chef Andrew Sutton leads his crew in an exhibition kitchen, turning out imaginative, highly seasonal New American fare.

The room mixes rustic with refined, and the notably wine-savvy waitstaff, many qualified as sommeliers, deftly tailors unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$ POPPY & SEED Chef-owner Michael Reed applies his versatile chops to a spirited, seasonal dinner menu of share plates and thoughtful proteins. Clever variations on of-the-moment produce are high points, as are premium steaks and duck dishes. The one-of-a-kind greenhouse garden setting is a calming contrast to neighbor Anaheim Packing House.

Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$ THE RANCH Oozing ambition, this upscale venue boasts a yowza saloon and a fine dining room so serious about sourcing, it maintains a private farm in the nearby foothills. A whopping menu of decidedly seasonal American fare boasts both uptown and down-home dishes. Live entertainment and dancing keep the

deluxe honkytonk hopping on weekends. 1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$ ROXY’Z Zov’s Anaheim resurfaced as this breezy watering hole inspired by Zov Karamardian’s mother and reputed renegade Roxy. Craft cocktails, imaginative share plates, and premier pizzas dominate a menu designed for gathering before or after games, concerts, and Disneyland visits. Don’t-miss dishes include the chile-glazed rib stack, fried chicken sandwich, and kebab platter. There’s an elevated beer program and a midweek happy hour. 1801 E. Katella Ave., 714-280-9687. $$ URBANA This colorful latecomer to the Anaheim Packing House brings vibrancy and a cool cantina attitude to a food hall that really needed a good taco and mezcal cocktail. Executive chef Ernie Alvarado’s short menu of savvy street food changes often, and you can’t go wrong with his daily specials. Cozy surroundings offer a choice of ambience—festive or sultry. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-502-0255. $$

ANAHEIM HILLS EL CHOLO A spiffy suburban outpost of the combo-plate chain that started in L.A. in 1923. Many dishes are listed with their year of origin. One of the best dates from the birth of the restaurant: the Sonora-style enchilada topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 8200 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-769-6269. See Corona del Mar and La Habra locations. $$ REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK Popular with the locals, this dapper haunt oozes bonhomie thanks to a solid team led by industry vet Scott McIntosh, whose feel-good American classics are consistently executed by a tight kitchen. Service is sharp. Look for a homey meatloaf, laudable fried chicken with yummy mashers and fresh biscuits,

and house-made desserts. Modern cocktails and a roomy patio increase the pleasure factor. 5775 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-283-1062. Second location (not yet reviewed) in Laguna Beach. $$ ROSINE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This neighborhood darling includes a 20-seat bar, complete with a full liquor license and a clutch of specialty cocktails. Fragrant rotisserie chickens are always popular, though the menu now offers winebraised lamb shanks, and Pacific ono skewers. A sizable roster of gluten-free choices anchors a spin-off menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

BRE A CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This cool hang with a wraparound sidewalk patio is Birch Street Promenade’s most enduring dining success. Helmed by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni, the menu of modern Mexican fare is boosted by a wood-burning oven and new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole. Taco Tuesday is just one of many weekly specials. Impressive tequila menu.

110 W. Birch St., 714-255-1040. See Irvine location. $$ OLD BREA CHOP HOUSE North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a Tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service.

Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with charcuterie platters. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714592-3122. $$$

CORONA DEL MAR 608 DAHLIA Chef-owner Jessica Roy transformed the alfresco gem inside iconic Sherman Library & Gardens with a new name and joyous take on seasonal fare. Dreamy salads are impeccably fresh, pastas imaginative, and vegetarian tacos are a signature dish in the making.

Effusive wine cocktails. 2647 E. Coast Highway, 949220-7229. Lunch only. $$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have

OUR CRITERIA Restaurants are reviewed by our dining critics and staff and have no relationship to advertising in Orange Coast.

Listings are updated regularly. We do not accept free meals; visits are anonymous. Price classifications are based on a typical three‑course dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert) for one person. Alan Gibbons edits this listing. You can reach her at agibbons@orangecoast.com.

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a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ FIVE CROWNS O.C.’s beloved, vine-covered, fine dining landmark of 1965 stays current thanks to a refreshed menu by executive chef Alejandra Padilla (formerly with Hillstone and Patina groups). Foodies thrill to foie gras brûlée and roast goose with wild grains, but sumptuous feasts of prime rib retain a hallowed spot on the carte at this Lawry’s-owned institution.

As always, service is polished and accommodating.

Leave room for the righteous sundae made with C.C. Brown’s hot fudge, an old Hollywood marvel. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-760-0331. Dinner only. $$$ SIDEDOOR Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes come-asyou-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$

COSTA MESA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE Chef-owner Jeoffrey Offer—native of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Toulouse, France, and son of a 2022 butcher—brought his pandemic dream to life with this intimate spot focused on steaks, chops, and scratch sausages. Eight specialty sauces are house-made to suit meats and starters.

Wood-grilled options range from a mighty fine burger to a grand aged ribeye for two. The tidy bar boasts a kitchen view, and the patio offers a quiet alternative to the lively hubbub of a packed house.

Weekend brunch stars Offer’s distinct take on croque madame and steak and eggs. There’s also a succinct wine list. 3321 Hyland Ave., 714-714-0662. $$$ DESCANSO Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$ HABANA Flickering candles light the way through a highceilinged dining room, convivial bar, and lush patio at The Lab’s enduring Cuban hang for date nights and late nights. Most of the fare sticks solidly to classics, such as roast chicken and ropa vieja, but the appetizer side is loaded with winners. Updates include a lavish, all-you-can-eat brunch with live island music and an array of delicious baked goodies.

Intimate confines make reservations a smart move.

2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176. See Irvine location. $$$ OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night.

Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

Grand seafood platter at Old Brea Chop House over, and he regularly leads culinary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$ TACO MARÍA Every dish is a marvel of deeply considered modern Cal-Mex cuisine from chef-owner and O.C. native Carlos Salgado, who parked his esteemed food truck enterprise for this site. Even the stripped-down setting draws all attention to the food. Dinners are four-course prix fixe affairs, with thoughtful wine pairings. Lunch—when the tacos appear—is a more laid-back and affordable way to sample the refined slant that snagged Salgado a Michelin star and several James Beard nominations for chef awards. 3313 Hyland Ave., 714-538-8444. Beer and wine. $$$

DANA POINT GLASSPAR Glasspar launched as a classic seafooder, oyster bar, and tap room. Veteran top toque and local Rob Wilson helms his dream retool of the old Mahé site, supporting the community with ultra-fresh fare, delicious dishes, and his five-star service. A tight focus on cocktails lures groups who want to sip.

24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$ RAYA Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this posh-butrelaxed dining room. After the eye-popping blufftop ocean view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience. But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 RitzCarlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

FULLERTON KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN Born in the crucible of the pandemic, this halal bistro serves flavorful kebabs, curries, and street snacks alongside wood-fired wagyu steaks. Creator and

executive chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in fine dining kitchens.

Khan Saab has the best-stocked alcohol-free bar in O.C. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$ SUMMIT HOUSE Set high above Fullerton’s northern city limits, this imposing Tudor manor house offers a sparkling citylights view at night, though the attractive grounds are pretty by day, too. The American menu offers few surprises; British-style prime rib and oak-grilled Skuna Bay salmon are reliable. Polished service brings back plenty of special-occasion diners. The cozy tavern bar is popular for light meals and happy hour. 2000 E. Bastanchury Road, 714-671-4111. $$$

HUNTINGTON BE ACH HENRY’S COASTAL CUISINE This Surf City resort’s fine dining choice prevails with expertly executed fare that’s mostly familiar and gorgeously presented. Goat cheese fudge is a surprising outlier on a tight menu of classics, some worthy of special occasions—think lobster bisque and côte de boeuf for two. Polished service. Live music. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-8000. Dinner only. $$$$ LSXO Step back in time to colonial Vietnam at this vest-pocket hideaway with only 28 seats.

Chef-owner Tin Vuong amplifies his successful L.A. Little Sister act with a sultry setting (tucked inside of huge Bluegold) and uncompromising Viet fare inspired by his roots and frequent travels to South Vietnam. Nifty craft cocktails and luxe dishes such as salt and pepper lobster make a good date night, but we also like the street-style noshes such as prawn crepes and lemongrass skewers. Fair warning: The uncensored rap soundtrack is not for all ears. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0083. $$ SESSIONS Surf City is the ideal spot for the second “West Coast deli,” this time across from the sand. Terrific sand-

October 2022 • Or a nge Coast 145

DINING GUIDE

OH, HI! | OJAI BURGER

wiches that eat like a meal for two are gourmet creations, meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. From-scratch soups, sides, and dressings. A surfer ethos extends to hearty breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 414 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-594-3899. Beer and wine. See Irvine and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

146 Ora nge C o ast • October 2022

beyond. Fast-forward to new Ojai Burger in Old Towne Orange, where stars of the menu include the signature Ojai Burger with fried egg and Chief Peak burger with sauteed onions and mushrooms, both featuring 24-hour-marinated wagyu patties.

Arguably stealing the spotlight are the spicy karaage chicken sandwich, takoyaki octopus fritters, ube-drizzled mochi dessert

IRVINE ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Irvine’s ever-slicker business zone is a good home for this classy, top-floor, New American choice for power diners, office pals, and couples. Modern craft cocktails enhance a menu that blends California ingredients with global flavors. Top toque Porfiro Gomez’s menu retains favorites such as the beef spring rolls, watermelon salad, and Duroc pork T-bone. Happy hour is a standout in a crowded field. 2607 Main St., 949-387-8887. $$

waffle, and matcha milkshake with pockystick toppings. Names of dishes such as Topa Topa Loaded Wagyu Fries pay homage to Ojai-area peaks. The fast-casual spot, near Orange Plaza and previously occupied

by Buttermilk Chicken, shares a shady patio with Wahoo’s Fish Tacos. 238 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 657-221-0619, eatojaiburger .com—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This addition to the restaurant family owned by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni is an inviting casa with a menu of modern Mexican fare boosted by commendable new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole to name a few. The indoor-meets-outdoor patio by designer Thomas Schoos is a fine upgrade of the Brea flagship. Weekly specials add value and excitement. Impressive tequila menu. 13126 Jamboree Road, 714-408-7819. See Brea location. $$ HABANA We waited 22 years for this glamorous Habana sibling, and it was worth it—a sprawling 300-seat compound that co-opts Cuba’s frozen-in-time splendor.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OJAI BURGER

W

hen four restaurateurs and longtime friends on vacation in Ojai—three cofounders of Pokeworks, one cofounder of a high-end Japanese restaurant—stumbled on Yume Japanese Burger Café, they immediately set out to partner with Yume’s founders to bring its fusion wagyu burgers to Orange County and

A roomy patio open to the sky is made intimate by high walls and lots of beautiful props and vignettes, with alcoves dedicated to house pastries and coffees. Despite the impressive scale, the menu hews tightly to the focused offerings at its Costa Mesa original. 708 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-419-0100.

See Costa Mesa location. $$$ LITTLE SISTER This Irvine Spectrum spot is an XXL bistro to older sister shop LSXO. Chef-partner Tim Vuong musters a team that pulls off a bigger menu, bigger digs, and a bigger profile with ease. Find proven faves—the overstuffed Viet Crepe and the Shaky Shaky Beef— plus new lunch porridges and bánh mìs streaming out of the kitchen to a bustling dining room. Vintage rap tracks and a crackerjack bar keep the vibe lively. 896 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-800-8798. $$$ PORCH & SWING This delightful indie serves a “taste BEST NEW RESTAURANT of Charleston” starring original riffs 2021 on American classics and cocktails

by Andrew Parish. Must-try dishes include roasted pork jowl over grits, amazing creamless creamed corn, and gorgeous salads. House-baked breads are a strength, too. The patio is lovely. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$ PUESTO San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options for O.C. fans. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oaxacan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from organic, non-GMO, blue corn masa. The cheese is

especially brilliant on vegetarian tacos. Always ask about the monthly taco special. The Park Place center location’s indoor-meets-outdoor venue is intimate and color-splashed. Park Place, 3311 Michelson Drive, 949-608-7272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. $$ SESSIONS No. 3 is a charm for O.C.’s indie chainlet of “West Coast” delis. Expect terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two, gourmet creations that are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. Fromscratch soups, sides, and dressings. A beguiling lakeside setting beckons for lazy breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 4736 Barranca Parkway, 949-333-3949. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Newport Beach locations.

Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas, daily aguas frescas, and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. Try the Oaxacan enchiladas. 13792 Jamboree Road, 714-5056080. See Newport Beach location. $$

LAGUNA BE ACH BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate decamped Charlie Palmer to create this sexy urban bistro. Fans old

and new keep the tight quarters humming to the backdrop of an open kitchen and vintage flicks playing on the flat-screen over the expansive bar. Santana’s dishes are opulent and intense. The wine list includes many notable half-bottles. 328 Glenneyre St., 949-715-8234. $$$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Margarita’s sprawling shop, but both offer top-notch Cal-Mex fare. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, and Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Don’t miss costillitas—baby back ribs topped with fried onions. Outstanding margaritas.

Warm, spiffy service. 217 Broadway St., 949-715-7829.

See Rancho Santa Margarita location. $$ THE DRAKE The grown-ups sipping cocktails are here for a full serving of primo live music paired with the cuisine of Paul Gstrein (ex of Bistango and Bayside). Laguna’s own Alec Glasser prevails in creating a dashing joint where both the musicians and the kitchen have serious chops. Diners dig into Euro-inflected dishes (try the lamb lollipops, the Alpine melt, the chile-lime swordfish).

Musicians dig the highbrow sound system. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-1000. $$$ NICK’S Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of tasty cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with modern twists. Ace bets include

Host Your holiday party in Spain!

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OJAI BURGER

Cafe Sevilla offers private event spaces & group dining experiences that will leave a lasting impression on your clients, partners & employees. From intimate dinners to large-scale cocktail receptions, Cafe Sevilla has the perfect event space for your holiday party!

Dazzling Event Spaces | Award-Winning Menus | Live Entertainment Costa Mesa | 949-688-1555 | CafeSevilla.com

DINING GUIDE

SEEN | THE VIEW

the steakhouse salad and blackened halibut sandwich. Softly lit and cushily appointed, the open-air space boasts a sidewalk patio. Sociable service is notably polished. 440 S. Coast Highway, 949-3768595. See San Clemente location. $$ OLIVER’S OSTERIA Wedged into an oddball canyon retail center, this tidy shop is chef-owner Erik De Marchi’s all-out defense of faithful fare inspired by his home turf of Italy’s Emilia-Romana region. Pastas are wondrous, but do wait to hear the daily specials that can include juicy lamb chops or crepes (crespelle) with porcini mushrooms in truffle-perfumed béchamel. Tight quarters make dining noisy when

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a double entendre suggesting the sea and things to be seen. The view from View and its lanai—of the pool and pool bar, golf course, and the Pacific—is still a draw. Sushi rolls are a signature starter. But the real stars of a first visit were executive chef Andy Arndt’s Garden Gem Leaves + Shoots salad with house-dried strawberries and the grilled Primal Pastures New York steak, sourced from Electric City Butcher, served

the room is full. And Oliver? He’s De Marchi’s first child, born on opening day. 853 Laguna Canyon Road, 949-715-0261. $$$ RUM SOCIAL This handsomely retooled rookie on quaint Peppertree Lane lures locals with its tropical vibe and novel menu of island-inspired fare and luscious cocktails. Downstairs is open to the breezy parade of beachgoers, whereas the upstairs bar is a quieter treetop retreat. Both share a menu of boundaryblurring dishes such as crispy Haitian chickpeas, jerk chicken, and Caribbean short rib cassoulet. 448 S. Coast Highway, 949-549-4014. $$$

with a buttery Robuchon-style potato purée whose decadence was exceeded only by the cocoa-nib-studded butterscotch budino that followed. The Ladies Man is a winning take on the boulevardier cocktail, featuring Bulleit Rye, Courvoisier, tangerine, and piloncillo. 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949402-3787, veanewportbeach.com— BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

SAPPHIRE CELL AR CRAFT COOK The latest incarnation of Laguna Beach’s historic Coast Highway venue is much better than it has to be, given its bulletproof location.

Upmarket, innovative American cuisine by executive chef Jared Cook includes irresistible weekend brunch waffles and Benedicts, classy lunch salads, and dinners that star fresh oysters and a splendid ribeye. On-site pantry for beach eats. 1200 South Coast Highway, 949-715-9888. $$$ SEL ANNE STEAK TAVERN Anaheim Ducks star Teemu Selanne cements his brand with this polished and popular steak joint on a venerated stretch of Coast Highway.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ISAAC MAISELMAN

T

he impressive circular waterfall at the entrance to VEA Newport Beach sets the tone for a dramatic redesign of this hotel. Pier-like design elements and wave-inspired millwork lead past a stylish lobby filled with intriguing art to View Restaurant and Bar, a ground-floor homage to the once-upon-a-time top-floor hot spot of that name. Vea is Spanish for “see,”

Prime, pricey beef rules the day on executive chef Vince Terusa’s menu designed for a pro athlete’s appetite and fan base. We like the main floor’s easy, breezy tavern for terrific cocktails, the superlative burger, and world-class people watching. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA HILLS IRONWOOD The savvy team behind Vine in San Clemente notches another hit with this dinner house in a zone with scant options. Executive chef Jared Cook’s modern, seasonal menu roams from delicate to hearty, but all dishes showcase his knack for upping the crave factor. Examples: chicken schnitzel with mushrooms, Zinfandel-braised lamb shank with mint yogurt. Terrific craft cocktails shift with the seasons.

25250 La Paz Road, 949-446-8772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL

PHOTOGRAPH BY ISAAC MAISELMAN

BOTTEGA ANGELINA This chic Italian is a grand showpiece by the team behind Pizzeria Angelina. House-made pastas, roasted meats, and pizzas share a succinct menu, supported by sophisticated cocktails from an imposing marble bar. Vast patio with dazzling views. 32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220. $$$ CALO KITCHEN + TEQUIL A Chic and breezy as a Baja resort, this sprawling spot lures local crowds for upscale Mexican classics. An

unending flow of worthy margaritas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well-executed shrimp ceviche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchiladas. Huge portions, sharp service, and modern digs seal the deal. Scores of sipping tequilas delight agave fans. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949-409-7380. $$$ HENDRIX Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hendrix swaggers into Laguna Niguel with a place that promises something for everyone in this optionlean suburb. It’s from the group behind Laguna Beach’s The Deck and Driftwood Kitchen, and partner Austrian-born Rainer Schwarz is executive chef.

A showpiece rotisserie roasts plump chickens, porchetta, and lamb while basting potatoes in the catch bin with juices from the meats. Irresistible small plates include prosciutto fritters, Brussels sprouts with marcona almonds, and chicken-fontina flatbread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$

MISSION VIEJO DUBLIN 4 GASTROPUB Publicans Darren and Jean Coyle welcome a varied crowd to this chipper modern pub, designed to rival Dublin’s finest. Executive chef David Shofner applies fine dining cred and scratch cooking to a menu of new and old-school fare that sparkles. Don’t-miss items include premium cottage pies, a killer lamb burger, and anything with house-cured meats. Upscale pricing and dapper

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surroundings prove this is not your frat brother’s Irish pub. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. $$$ WINEWORKS FOR EVERYONE This near-hidden pocket bistro is a top choice for wine-centric cuisine in South County. A retooled menu by chef David Shofner, who also helms the kitchen at Dublin 4 next door, brims with seasonal California fare that flatters a wine list of West Coast and international bottles. Must-haves include sausage flatbread, and a killer cheese plate. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. Beer and wine. $$$

N E W P ORT BE AC H BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE

Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse cannoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite.

Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. 1200 Bison Ave., 949-520-7191. $$$ BOUILLON Indefatigable operator Laurent Vrigand, the founder of six Moulin cafes, debuts his first full-service restaurant—an homage to Paris’ Bouillon Chartier, his childhood favorite. Expect one all-day menu of nostalgic fare at painless prices, no substitutions, no reservations, and snappy service. Standouts include tian Provençal, beef bourguignon, and profiteroles. 1000 N. Bristol, 949-418-9549. $$

220 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, CA 92672 949.503.3326 Instagram @MikiisOnDelMar

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DINING GUIDE FABLE & SPIRIT From the family behind Dublin 4 BEST NEW RESTAURANT comes this lush addition to the area 2020 across from Lido Marina Village. But don’t assume this is an Irish pub that mimics the other. This plush room features inventive fare that’s a mashup of American and Irish. Here you start with Hares Looking at You, a cocktail starring Wheatley vodka and carrot juice, move on to the refined beet agnolotti with chèvre foam, or share a woodfired duck confit pizetta. Yes, the fish and chips are superior, but so is the rabbit fricassee. 3441 Via Lido, 949-409-9913. $$$ LIDO BOTTLE WORKS This handsome waterfront venue sounds like a liquor store, but it’s a sleeper of a full-service restaurant hiding in the swanky Lido Marina Village development. Hyper-seasonal and prettily plated, notable creations include Dory Fleet catches of the day, opulent Iberico secreto pork, a solid burger, and one glorious chocolate mousse. 3408 Via Oporto, 949-529-2784. $$ MALIBU FARM LIDO Malibu farm girl and native Swede Helene Henderson adds another ocean-air venue for colorful organic fare. The all-day menu boasts fat burritos, fruit-covered grain, or yogurt bowls and savory options that include the bestseller, an outstanding fried egg sandwich with great bacon and Havarti on country toast with lemon aioli. Multigrain pancakes are worthy, but Swedish mini pancakes with berries and cream are stupendous. 3420 Via Oporto, 949-791-2096. $$

MOULIN Moulin is the passion project of Paris native Laurent Vrignaud. After 30 years in the action-sports industry, he lives his longtime dream of serving bistro classics, selling oven-fresh baguettes and grab-and-go dishes, and peddling wines and other French pantry items. The unfussy bistro and patio evoke Paris at every turn. It’s O.C.’s gathering spot for expats and Francophiles. 1000 Bristol St. North, 949474-0920. Locations (not reviewed) in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$ OLEA CELL AR CRAFT COOK Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offering from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood and Vine, a homegrown hospitality group. Fans of chef Jared Cook will recognize some familiar dishes from his sibling shops, but there are exclusives here, too. We’re mad for the opulent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarragon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, 949-2876807. Dinner only. $$$ SESSIONS This busy “West Coast deli” on the peninsula crafts terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two.

Gourmet creations with kooky names are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. A surfer vibe extends to hearty breakfasts at 7 a.m. daily, starring Golden State Coffee Roaster coffee. 2823 Newport Blvd., 949-220-9001. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Irvine locations. Fourth loca-

tion (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ SHOREBIRD Hidden inside the Vue Newport enclave, Shorebird is invisible until you enter the airy split-level space dominated by its waterfront view. Expect contemporary American fare plus familiar side detours for sushi and tacos. Best bets include Duroc pork chop, lump crab cakes, avocado fries. 2220 Newport Blvd., 949-287-6627. $$$ SUSHI ROKU The sixth location of this Cal-Japanese concept makes a huge impression with striking decor and vibrant cuisine. If the dining room’s busier than the sushi bar, blame the thoughtfully designed and executed menu, notably dishes such as fluke kumquat sashimi, blue crab tartare, Prime ribeye Japonais, and the deconstructed s’mores. The creative sushi deserves a night all its own, and the bar and patio offer their own vibes. Look for scores of noodles, salads, and bento boxes at lunch, and sakes. 327 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-3622. $$$ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949720-0980. See Irvine location. $$ TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR David Wilhelm, the county’s restaurant laureate, returns to Newport Beach with this fetching and welcome rehab of a waterside venue. Menus read like a playlist of Wilhelm’s champion recipes

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tweaked for 2020. Standout new dishes for dinner and weekend brunch include red snapper Veracruzana, Buddha bowls, sirloin meatballs, and fried chicken with malted waffles. Look for a natty presunset happy hour on weekdays. 333 Bayside Drive, 949-673-8464. $$ THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The snazzy venue overlooks the yacht and Duffy boat traffic in Newport Harbor, flaunting its waterfront charms with 180-degree views from two floors plus a cigar patio. The space sizzles with bonhomie— and diners who love their surf, turf, wine, and VIP treatment. Expect cosseting service from partners JC Clow, William Lewis, and executive chef Yvon Goetz.

Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 3131 W. Coast Highway, 949-999-6622. See Tustin location. $$$

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NE WPORT COAST THE BEACHCOMBER The surf’s-edge view might be better than the food, but the drinks and eats are good enough to keep this iconic spot packed with beachgoers, especially in summer. Stick with basics such as grilled artichokes, lobster club, and stuffed salmon. Executive chef Carlos Olivera oversees the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that change slightly each season. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$ BLUEFIN Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gorgeous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The setting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Superior sake selection. 7952 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 949-715-7373. $$$ MARCHÉ MODERNE The finest French bistro south of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs 2018 that express a fresh chapter for the redoubtable Florent and Amelia Marneau. Added space and oversize windows let the outdoors into a room that oozes grace and sophistication. Beloved dishes such as Spanish octopus with chorizo return to the dinner menu alongside new creations from the open kitchen—think crispy suckling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only.

7862 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 714-434-7900. $$$ WASA SUSHI James Hamamori cemented his stardom at this striking shopping-center spot brimming with devotees of modern spins on sushi. Renowned for such fare as salmon with ginger sauce and fresh orange. Exceptional selection of salads, appetizers, and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511.

Beer and wine. $$ ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST This attractive shopping center offshoot of the popular original Zov’s in Tustin is a go-to patio cafe that lures locals with creative Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin location. $$$

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DINING GUIDE ORANGE BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a Southern accent. Look for Parmesan-crusted meatloaf, gulf shrimp and grits, and a yowza burger. The service is sharp. Sunday brunch and a robust midweek happy hour. 118 W. Chapman Ave., 714-716-1599. $$ HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR A serious contender in the gastropub category, this popular storefront in Old Towne lures a mixed crowd of brew fanatics and foodies, thanks to a rich roster of esoteric suds and polished pub grub from chef Craig Brady. Dishes such as a braised lamb pappardelle and coriander roasted baby carrots. Lunch and early dinner are options for bypassing the deafening din that rises with the crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680. $$ THE HOBBIT Gustatory delights worthy of Gatsby attract diners on special occasions to this gracious hacienda, where dinners are seven-course pageants that start with bubbly and nibbles in the wine cellar, and end hours later on the cigar patio. Each night’s menu is set weeks in advance—and so are most reservations. 2932 E. Chapman Ave., 714-997-1972. Reservations required. $$$

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN & BAR Lakeside seats, terrific craft cocktails, and daring fare by young chef Karl Pfleider earn local love for this rare gastro-canteen in Rancho Santa Margarita. Midweek tapas start at 3 p.m. with goodies such as steak tartare with pistachio XO sauce. But wait until 5 p.m. for the mahi-mahi with paprika mole. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949888-0072. Second location (not reviewed) in Yorba Linda, 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2593. $$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN This lakefront sprawler offers top-notch Cal-Mex fare from the culinary vision of owner Clemente Heredia Jr., a third-generation operator. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Outstanding margaritas.

Warm, spiffy service. 31441 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949-709-7600. See Laguna Beach location. $$

SAN CLEMENTE BRICK The menu of authentic, seasonal cuisine says Italy, but the unfussy setting and beach-casual regulars make for a solid California vibe at this trattoria by chef-owner David Pratt. Thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired Valoriani oven are composed with care, but don’t miss the house-made pastas and seasonal salads. Amazing meatballs, too. 216 N. El Camino Real, 949-429-1199. $$ NICK’S On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact allday menu of comfort classics with a modern twist.

Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened fish sandwich. And there’s a sidewalk patio 152 Ora nge C o ast • October 2022

Grilled mahi-mahi at Bosscat Kitchen & Libations with fireplace. Sociable service is notably polished.

213 Avenida del Mar, 949-481-2200. See Laguna Beach location. $$ SOUTH OF NICK’S From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110 N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location (not reviewed) in Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$ VINE A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new heights, because owner Russ Bendel Jr. wisely gives sauce monster and executive chef Jared Cook full reign over the kitchen. Look for killer duck wings and nightly specials that tend to sell out. A garden out back only sweetens this beach burg gem. 211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079. Dinner only. $$$

SAN JUAN C APISTRANO MAYFIELD Modern, hyper-seasonal California fare meets the timeless food ways of the Middle East at this ingenious newcomer. Breezy two-story digs include a pretty quartz bar for leading-edge cocktails. Do try fried eggplant, lamb meatballs, and shareable dips. By day, look for indulgent brunch dishes. 31761 Camino Capistrano, 949-218-5140. $$$ PUBLIC 74 This county-line gastropub radiates a welcoming vibe that attracts customers of all types to its fauxramshackle chic, second-story venue. Craft brews, booze, and decidedly eclectic eats change often, as executive chef Gerry Kent keeps the smallish menu seasonal. Definitely consider the two-handed Reu-

ben, and there’s a seasonal monster burger. 27211 Ortega Highway, 949-481-2723. $$ RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ A sweet adobe hiding in the historic Los Rios district, Ramos House Café turns out some of South County’s most delectable daytime fare. Contemporary and clever American breakfasts and lunches (brunch on weekends) have a distinct Southern accent that fits the rustic, alfresco setting with passing trains as soundtrack. Look for ethereal biscuits and crab hash. And don’t miss the killer bloody mary. 31752 Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$

SANTA ANA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

BENCHMARK Quirky and capable, this Santa Ana newcomer goes all-in for alfresco, luring diners with a tree-shaded setting on a vintage residential street. The modest menu of American bistro dishes is just big enough to have wide appeal. Happy hour and weekend brunch have a backyard party vibe. Dinner surprises with upmarket dishes, say a lovely bavette steak atop celery root puree. 601 E. Santa Ana Blvd., 714-480-0225. $$ CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL This intrepid Mexican canteen offers less-familiar dishes—corundas, roast quail—alongside comfort favorites such as ceviche and chilaquiles. Michoacán native Sergio Ortega previously of Descanso, is executive chef. Inaugural meals include dinner nightly and Sunday brunch. Commendable drinks.

400 N. Broadway, 714-852-3256. $$ EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe from Mexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde. Also impressive: crisp tacos ahogado in hot broth. We loved the guajillo salsa-soaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch.

Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$

photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

SE AL BE ACH 320 MAIN Seal Beach’s dark-but-cheerful indie venue boasts a long-respected cocktail program, and chef Jamie Carrano complements those craft cocktails with a menu of rich, high-flavor fare. Think bone marrow Wellington, and for brunch, fried chicken Benedict.

Fun day-of-the-week specials include Tiki Tuesday and Wine and Whiskey Wednesday. 320 Main St., 562-799-6246. $$ MAHÉ Mahé is a hot spot for locals. Entertainment and a lively bar are the backdrops for sushi, steaks, and seafood. The inventive rolls, such as the salmon bomb, will make you a regular. 1400 Pacific Coast Highway, 562-431-3022. Dinner only. $$$

SOUTH COAST ME TRO ANQI

Tight focus on the fare makes dining at this South Coast Plaza hot spot better than ever.

Executive chef Ron Lee makes delicious harmony with matriarch master chef Helene An’s spicy beef tacos and roasted New Zealand lamb rack, as well as her fabled roast crab (Tuesday only). Zen chic decor turns heads. Drinks at the dramatic bar dazzle the cocktail crowd; also try Sunday brunch. 3333 Bristol St., 714-557-5679. $$$ ANTONELLO RISTORANTE For more than three decades South Coast Plaza’s Italian grand diva has reigned for ultrafine feasting on authentic, traditional dishes backed by a savvy wine selection deep with Italian stars. House-made pastas, breads, and desserts. The restaurant’s aura of privilege is underscored by pampering service for VIPs. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-751-7153. $$$ DARYA Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebabs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$ DIN TAI FUNG Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, handpleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bristol St., 714-549-3388. $$ HAMAMORI Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza dazzler of a sushi bar. Son Jim is now behind the bar, too, but this heavenly venue also shows off non-sushi dishes such as uni floating in edamame puree, Kobe rissole, and miso-marinated lamb chops. Omakase is truly top-notch. 3333 Bear St., 714-850-0880. $$$ KNIFE PLEAT South Coast Plaza’s rarefied penthouse shines ever brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelinacclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to

Deviled eggs at Outpost Kitchen see stars again with this radiant backdrop for Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hospitality. Look for butter-poached lobster, forest mushroom melange, and the signature legumes de saison when nature allows. Save room for Germain Biotteau’s inimitable desserts. Friday and Saturday night tasting menus are utterly indulgent. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. Closed Sunday and Monday. $$$ OUTPOST KITCHEN A native of Australia’s Gold Coast, founder Jay Lewis brings a surf culture vibe and his passion for clean eats to the second location of the daytime cafe. Slick and sun splashed, the new venue adds cocktails to a site ideal for pre-theater dining or a breezy patio brunch with friends. Best bites include berry pancakes and the Kingswood lamb sandwich, as well as smoothies and bowls. 3420 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-852-3044 $$ PARADISE DYNAST Y Singapore’s largest restaurant group opts for the Bloomingdale’s end of South Coast Plaza for its first U.S. operation with this wildly popular soup dumpling specialist that pioneered xiao long bao, oozing with luxury ingredients that include black truffles, foie gras, and crab roe. Ultramodern digs seat diners in view of an exhibition kitchen where 20 artisans handcraft a steady flow of dumplings to support a 75-dish menu starring dim sum and Sichuan classics.

Walk-up wait list. 3333 Bristol St., 714-617-4630 $$ POPUL AIRE Showing loads of promise, this modern NEW bistro is the new dream collaboration of veteran chefs and longtime friends Nick Weber and Ross Pangilinan (owner of nearby Terrace by Mix Mix). The setting and the fare are at once elevated and lighthearted. Look for innovative French, Asian, and American flourish in dishes that include crab chawanmushi, roast duck, and the yowza Royale With Cheese burger. There’s a prix fixe midweek lunch and special brunch dishes on Sunday.

3333 Bristol St., 714-760-4555 $$$

RITTER’S STEAM KETTLE COOKING Chef-partner Mike Ritter and crew create CajunCreole magic in 12 steam-heated steel caldrons that cook seductive versions of gumbo, chowder, and the legendary pan poast—a heady concoction of various shellfish bubbling in a rich sauce of cream, tomato, and secret spices, topped with a dome of perfect jasmine rice—that’s by far the bestselling dish. 1421 W. MacArthur Blvd., 714-850-1380. Beer and wine. $$ ROYAL KHYBER Arun Puri, the creator behind Orange County’s first Indian restaurant, is still buying the spices and manning the tandoor oven in the skilled kitchen at this upscale choice for first-rate renditions of classics such as butter chicken, tikka masala, and the signature Khyber’s Nectar. 1621 W. Sunflower Ave., 714436-1010. $$ TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR One of South Coast Plaza’s shiny new additions categorizes its cuisine as New American—a hazy designation for chef-owner John Park’s canny brunch and dinner menus that defy easy labels. Think fried burrata sandwich with pumpkin seed pesto, souffle-light berry pancakes with chamomile whipped cream, and shrimp and grits with surprise slices of lap cheong.

Desserts are dazzlers. 3333 Bear St., 714-872-8054. $$ TERRACE BY MIX MIX Canny chef-owner Ross Pangilinan’s minimalist aerie overlooking the stylish Bridge of Gardens skywalk at South Coast Plaza lacks a full bar, but it has wine and beer and is open daily with ample free parking. Fans love the three-course lunch, but weekend brunch with its mimosa cart beguiles, and dinner offers the best prix fixe in the center. Don’tmiss dishes include Asian ribs, hamachi crudo, and pork cheek adobo. 3333 Bear St., 657-231-6447. $$ VACA Top chef Amar Santana and ace partner Ahmed Labbate return to Costa Mesa with an exuberant, singular ode to Spain. Santana sidesteps the “eat local” crusade, offering peerless jamon Iberico, lush bomba rice for paellas, and verdant Mahon gin for

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DINING GUIDE cocktails. Dozens of authentic tapas beg to be tried, but do consider excellent wood-grilled steaks, dryaged in-house. Dinner tables at prime times are scarce, so plan, wait, or aim for lunch. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$

TUSTIN CENTRO STORICO Old Town Tustin’s new kid on the old block transforms a vintage building into a spaghetteria and bar, plus a back-pocket cafe. Artisan, fresh daily pasta is the latest effort from the Pozzuoli family behind Centro, the excellent micro pizzeria next door. Signature dishes include Capperi e Olive (casarecca), Aglione (bucatini), and grilled porterhouse for two. 405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$ CHAAK Gabbi and Ed Patrick of Gabbi’s Kitchen chose Old Town to show off the county’s most sophisticated take on the regional fare of Mexico’s wondrous Yucatán Peninsula, naming their new location after the Mayan rain god. The dazzling space features a retractable roof and sliding Roman shades to lovely effect. Must-have dishes include sikil pec, a roasted pumpkin seed dip, as well as cochinita pibil and carne cruda. A 16-seat bar invites lingering over elaborate cocktails or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The O.C. power crowd doesn’t care that this isn’t a winery, but a huge, handsome restaurant that attracts disciples of steak, wine, and cigars. They’re exactly the folks you’d expect would follow partners JC Clow and William Lewis from their previous gig at Morton’s, with executive chef Yvon Goetz in tow.

Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. If the 7,500-bottle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600.

See Newport Beach location. $$$ THE YELLOW CHILLI The Yellow Chilli is another franchise by Sanjeev Kapoor, India’s mega-celebrity chef. Bigger than Wolfgang or Martha. The massive menu proves the master chef isn’t stingy with recipes, not after writing more than 150 cookbooks. Knowledgeable servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera, one of Kapoor’s most famous creations: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714-389-5280. $$ ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, creative way with Mediterranean flavors. Zov keeps her flagship venue fresh and stylish. Expect Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. The patio cafe out back stays

43 YEARS

RESTAURANTS 17th Street Grill 714.730.0003 Belacan Grill

MALAYSIAN BISTRO

714.505.9908 Distinctive Shopping & Dining

Orange county’s most unique shopping experience High School Choir Concerts Every Thursday in October Oct. 6, Lutheran High School Oct. 13, Tustin High School Oct. 20, Beckman High School Oct. 27, Foothill High School La Galleria is hosting A Joseph Ribkoff Trunk Show Friday, Oct. 29, 10am to 6pm Charleston Providence Boutique Saturday, Oct. 29, 1-5pm Happy Hour & Rose from Provence & “Savannah Candy” tasting. Gift w/$50 purchase Deckers Fine Gift Annual Christmas Open House Sunday, Nov. 13, 10am to 4pm Enderle Center’s Annual Holiday Open House Thursday, Nov. 17, 5-9pm

The Coffee Grinder 714.838.0960 The Crab Cooker 714.573.1077 El Torito 714.838.6630 Zov’s Bakery & Café 714.838.8855 Zov’s Bistro 714.838.8855 SERVICES 17th Street Optometry

busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855. See Newport Coast location. $$$

YORBA LINDA BLUE AGAVE Southwestern favorites, from tamales to carnitas, and mole enchiladas in generous portions, keep regulars coming back. For something different, try the Puerto Nuevo tostada with shrimp, mahi-mahi, sour cream, and raspberries in a pumpkin seed-citrus dressing. 18601 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714-970-5095. $$ THE WILD ARTICHOKE Chef-owner James D’Aquila and his winsome crew raise the culinary bar at this teensy, modest storefront. Expect skillful, gourmet incarnations of comfort fare, such as pasta Bolognese. Desserts are few but mighty. 4973 Yorba Ranch Road, 714-777-9646.

Beer and wine. Dinner only. $$

DINING NEWS To keep up with the latest Orange County dining news, subscribe to our O.C. Dining newsletter and follow our food-and-dining coverage at orangecoast.com.

Fusion Hair 714.838.6000 Hair Industry The Salon 714.731.2530 Rebecca Pelletier Interiors 714.508.8581 Studio J PILATES

714.721.1163 Tustin Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 714.544.5341 Winston’s Estate Gallery 714.508.0100 FASHION A Perfect Fit FINE LINGERIE

Fancy Nails 714.730.4722

714.665.5994 Frank’s Menswear 714.730.5945 La Galleria

Fitness Fixe 714.838.5751

714.544.6340

OPTOMETRY

714.838.9664

ELEGANT WOMEN’S APPAREL

Tina Marie’s

BRIGHTON COLLECTION

714.505.1676

Touch of Class Refinery 714.734.7749 SPECIALTY AA Jewel Box 714.669.9966 Charleston Provence BOUTIQUE

714.508.8581 Chemers Gallery 714.731.5432 Deckers Fine Gifts 714.832.7074 Discoveries

CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS

714.544.6206 H. Foster & Jackson 714.544.4635

Justin Porterfield, Ltd. 714.544.5223

714.731.2911

SEVENTEENTH STREET & YORBA ST., TUSTIN — 55 FRWY. NORTH OR SOUTH, EXIT SEVENTEENTH ST. EAST 154 Ora nge C oast • October 2022

(continued from page 91)

and bachelor’s degrees. “I was like, ‘Transfer? Where?’ This is the importance of having mentors,” she says. “I had never had anybody see something for me that I didn’t see for myself.”

Her teachers helped her navigate financial aid and transfer to Cal State Sacramento, where she completed a bachelor’s degree in English. It was the start of an educational chain reaction. López’s academic prowess garnered prestigious scholarships and fellowships, enabling her to earn a master’s degree and doctorate in English from UC Santa Barbara and win a literary award from UC Irvine along the way.

L

ópez cites the countless students she has taught and had an impact on over the years as the most rewarding part of her journey.

Before she was finished with her own education, she started mentoring younger students, such as Patricia Herrera. They met at Dartmouth in 1994, where López was completing her doctoral dissertation as the first César Chávez Fellow at the university, and Herrera was a freshman.

López took Herrera, also a first-generation college student, under her wing. López shared her story with Herrera, encouraged her, invited her home during holiday breaks, and inspired her to consider postgraduate education. Herrera had never met another Latina pursuing a Ph.D. and hadn’t thought of attaining one herself. “She was a model for that,” Herrera says. “I feel like that’s one of her superpowers—creating these pathways for other people to be able to be leaders as well.”

Several years later, Herrera earned the same prestigious César Chávez Fellowship and completed a doctorate. She’s now an associate professor

in the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Richmond, Virginia, and she and López are still good friends. “(López) really is an inspiration for how you can make it, how you can pursue your passion, how you can put (past trauma and challenges) to the side for a moment and do what you want to do,” Herrera says.

Cesar Ortega and Miriam de la Torre, López’s honorary “adult children,” were first-generation students in López’s English and theater classes at UC Riverside. Ortega says he wouldn’t have earned his degree without López’s encouragement. He struggled with writing in a second language and was embarrassed by his accent. López would “create a space that felt safe to be us in our skin—in the arts and in life,” he says.

Ortega and de la Torre married and are pursuing more education.

De la Torre is working on a master’s in occupational therapy at USC, and Ortega is applying to graduate schools to study higher education.

They still talk with López weekly.

“I think she’s an artist in the way that she engages with people, that she creates art by bringing people together,” Ortega says. “And I’m excited for the young Cesars, Miriams, and many other people to really explore art, to think that they are artists in their own way, and to be able to explore that voice they have.”

“We need people who’ve had her experiences in leadership, because they’re going to understand the situation that so many of our young people are facing,” says Liz Lerman, professor in dance at the School of Film, Dance and Theatre at ASU and a MacArthur Genius Fellow. “Tiffany has so much to offer because she’s lived a complex and difficult life. …

She really believes in academia as a transformational place, because that’s what it was for her.”

L

ópez’s vision for the Claire Trevor School of the Arts merges every facet of her career. It’s best illustrated by the glinting, tubular metal ring on her left hand, which López says is modeled

after an electrical conduit. “I wear this ring to remind me of my own vision as a leader, which is to bring together different kinds of things. So it has two distinct types of metals,” she says, pointing at the silver and brass in the band, “but also, it’s a conduit. That’s really how I see my role as a leader and as an artist and as a scholar—(as) a conduit.”

Like her ring, she seeks to unite seemingly unrelated elements—the school’s fine arts with the university’s renowned scientific research— and create channels to connect students with mentors and leaders in their fields. “I think a big goal is really bringing a spotlight to the way that the arts are exploring research questions,” she says, describing how the current generation of creators and scholars are using artistic disciplines to examine topics such as sustainability and social justice.

“They’re really interested in being a variety of things, like an engineer who’s also a poet. So I’m very excited about (creating) avenues for our future arts leadership and our future cultural leadership and innovators to be able to think about engaging with arts, just as a very organic way of exploring the questions that they’re wanting to solve for their moment and for the future.”

She plans to build on the foundation already in place with the integration of the arts with STEM subjects. The second part of López’s vision hearkens back directly to her winding educational journey. In addition to expanding the university’s community engagement with the arts in Orange County, she hopes to develop further mentorship and networking opportunities for students with influential artists and leaders.

“The bottom line is when you empower people to personally be their best selves, it creates paths that not only better their own lives, but better the lives of their families and their communities,” she says. “And that’s really what the University of California and higher education is set up to do, is to help people better their life paths through education.”

October 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 155

O F

I N T E R E S T

TRICK QUESTIONS

Some can sing opera’s stirring “Nessun Dorma.” Some can escape a straitjacket.

Anaheim’s Naathan Phan can do both—at the same time. by Barbara Neal Varma

What sparked your interest in magic?

My grandfather. He loved practical jokes and magic. He knew only two tricks, but that’s all it took. I knew whatever I ended up doing, I’d be performing in some way.

So far I’ve been on “Penn & Teller: Fool Us,” “America’s Got Talent,” and “Masters of Illusion.” I’m grateful for the many incredible things that have happened to me.

Favorite way to pay it forward?

I usually have a deck of cards in my pocket; it’s standard for magicians. I’ll be sitting somewhere—maybe at the airport, shuffling or practicing—and someone will come up and ask me if I’m a magician.

156 ORA NGE CO A ST • October 2022

Then it’s like, here we go. It’s fun when people gather round and look so amazed, especially the kids. With great power comes great responsibility, right? Or with great personal skills comes a great need to show off at all times!

What other talents do you have up your sleeve?

Singing, acting, writing—I majored in creative writing at the Orange County School of the Arts. I’ve also done stand-up comedy and improv. It’s important to practice in front of live audiences as much as possible—more stage time, more time to get the feeling of the words in your mouth,

to feel the timing of it. The more you do it, the more bulletproof the act gets.

Advice for would-be wizards?

Any magician will tell you that there are only eight kinds of magic tricks. At the end of the day, you have to find a way to make it original, make it yours. We already have a David Copperfield. We already have a Lance Burton. But what we don’t have is you.

SEE HIM!

Check out upcoming shows at magicasianman.com.

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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