Orange Coast Magazine - November 2023

TE ST YO U R O.C . TRIVIA KNOWLE D G E

WINTER ESCAPES

My individual needs shaped my treatment.

At UCI Health, you’re never just a patient. We see what’s important to you and understand you have unique health goals. We treat each patient with the groundbreaking, personalized care they deserve.

So no matter what you need, our team of world-renowned experts is here to help.

Learn more at ucihealth.org

Spread (SOP).indd 12

8/29/23 12:24 PM

Spread (SOP).indd 13

8/29/23 12:24 PM

A testament to luxurious living.

2 Cadencia, a symbol of luxury living in Rancho Mission Viejo, showcases five bedrooms, an office, and a loft on a spacious lot. Its open-concept design seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces, offering an oasis of relaxation.

Spread (SOP).indd 4

9/29/23 1:51 PM

Dave & Julia Archuletta | DRE #02092569, #01884122

Spread (SOP).indd 5

9/29/23 1:51 PM

Spread (SOP).indd 6

9/29/23 1:52 PM

Spread (SOP).indd 7

9/29/23 1:52 PM

Full Page (SOP).indd 6

9/27/23 11:13 AM

F O N T A I N E B L E A U

L A S

V E G A S

R E S O R T

& C A S I N O

1 2. 1 3. 2 3

Full Page (SOP).indd 7

9/27/23 11:13 AM

Jyoti Malhotra, M.D., M.P.H. Director, Thoracic Medical Oncology City of Hope Orange County

HOPE IS WHERE CANCER LOSES AND LIFE WINS When it comes to lung cancer, there’s a lifesaving difference with cancer-focused expertise. Successfully treating this complex disease comes with decades of singular, unwavering focus. And nobody in Orange County researches, treats and cures cancer — and only cancer — like City of Hope.

Our lung cancer specialists include Jyoti Malhotra, M.D., M.P.H., the director of thoracic medical oncology at City of Hope Orange County. Dr. Malhotra’s expertise in precision medicine is bringing new hope to people with lung cancer. She is part of a team advancing breakthrough research and leading-edge treatment at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — the most advanced comprehensive cancer center in Orange County.

“Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in Orange County, where only seven percent of adults smoke cigarettes,” says Dr. Malhotra. “Fortunately, mortality rates from the most common lung cancer, nonsmall cell lung cancer, have fallen sharply in recent years, thanks to advances in research, early detection and treatment.”

Dr. Malhotra recommends that anyone concerned about lung cancer speak to their doctor about their individual risks and determine whether they are eligible for lung cancer screenings. If you or someone you love is diagnosed with lung cancer, seek care from an expert at City of Hope Orange County.

City of Hope leads a wide variety of clinical trials evaluating the latest immunotherapy and targeted therapy approaches for lung cancer, including our current Phase 1b trial of an innovative combination therapy to treat advanced EGFR mutated non-small cell lung cancer. We conduct more than 800 clinical trials each year, giving patients access to leading-edge discoveries, not tomorrow, but today.

Superior cancer care. You simply can’t find it outside a specialty cancer center.

How honored we are to be a nationally ranked top-10 cancer center, right here in Orange County.

888.333.HOPE (4673) | CityofHope.org/OC

REGIONAL CLINICS IN LENNAR FOUNDATION CANCER CENTER, IRVINE

Full Page (SOP).indd 18

Huntington Beach

Irvine Sand Canyon

Long Beach Elm

Long Beach Worsham

Newport Beach

9/29/23 10:02 AM

HOPE HERE

leads the nation in bone marrow and stem cell transplants

City of Hope has performed more than 18,000 bone marrow and stem cell transplants. And each success means another sunset, another birthday, another smile. From diagnosis to survival, it all adds up to your best hope. Cancer loses. Life wins.

LEARN HOW TO NAVIGATE A CANCER DIAGNOSIS. 888.333.HOPE (4673) | CityofHope.org/OC Tanya Siddiqi, M.D., Medical Director, Division of Lymphoma, City of Hope Orange County

© 2023 City of Hope

HOPE LIVES HERE

COH - P-AD - Orange Coast 11-Nov 1 2023 - Hope Lives Here - Bone Marrow_SiddiqiFINAL-.indd 1

9/28/23 1:49 PM

Full Page (SOP).indd 19

9/29/23 10:03 AM

NOVEMBER “The importance of local news can’t be overstated. It’s a little bit like water; we never really notice it or acknowledge it until it’s missing. We look at “OC World” as perhaps developing an oasis for Orange County’s news desert.”

—MANUEL N. GÓMEZ, COFOUNDER OF OC WORLD

78 92

WI NTE R ESCAPES No matter what your favorite winter destination involves, we’ve got options that are a short drive from home. It’s time to start planning your getaway this season.

H AR D H IT TI N G Manuel N. Gómez is producer and cofounder of the nonprofit multimedia company behind “OC World” on PBS.

BY ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN

94

O.C . TR IVIA Test your insider knowledge with some fun facts and quizzes about the county we call home.

BY THERESA WALKER AND ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN

O N T H E C OV E R

Photograph courtesy of Noon Lodge 10

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

10 TOC.indd 10

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:02 PM

Bring your first thoughts.

We’ll bring you the showroom experience you’ve been waiting for.

When you walk through our doors, bring an idea.

A dream. A vision. Our showroom is designed to inspire you with on-site chefs, product experts, and exclusive events—all so you can fully experience everything your kitchen can be.

Scan to book an appointment.

655 Anton Boulevard Costa Mesa, CA 92626 657-269-5874

Full Page (SOP).indd 12

9/27/23 11:15 AM

NOVEMBER 28

51 16 23 24 26 28 30

12

E D ITO R ’S LET TE R PEO PLE & PL AC E S An impressive CANstruction sculpture of Steamboat Willie

38

‘HOODS New spots to treat yourself—and your pet—in Dana Point

40

O.C .’S OWN The woman behind the recipe blog and lifestyle brand Dada Eats C U LTU R E PH I LE Yorba Linda author writes books to help children be kind to pets.

O.C . E VE NTS California Wine Festival, Midori, “A Christmas Carol,” and more happenings this month

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

10 TOC.indd 12

37

42 44

ST YLE & H O M E Tiffany & Co. wineglasses for Thanksgiving ST YLE TALK WITH ...

Stylist Carly Landig from Newport Beach H OT S H O P Inretrospect in Huntington Beach FI N D S Stay warm by stocking your closet with leather this season.

O N TH E MAR KET A Santa Ana home with the perfect dining room for Thanksgiving, plus an interview with a Turkey Trot volunteer

51 56 58 75

40 FO O D & D R I N K Pacific Catch opens its first O.C. location in Tustin.

Q U OTE S Rangeen Kitchen owner shares her twist on Indian flavors.

FO O D TR E N D S Soup dumplings of all kinds around O.C. MY O.C .

The benefits of shopping in person explained

DINING GUIDE 110 Many of our

minireviews, plus a look at Palmilla in Newport Beach

RSON OF 120 PE I NTE R E ST

Marine biologist and nonprofit founder Nancy Caruso

W EB EXTR A S Chef Max Schultz, executive chef at the six locations of Sessions West Coast Deli, prepares a twist on a meatball sandwich in Cathy Thomas’ kitchen. orangecoast.com /cathythomas Where to dine for your Thanksgiving meal in O.C. orangecoast.com /thanksgiving Check out our coverage of new places to eat and drink all over Orange County. orangecoast.com

@orangecoastmag

photographs by SCOTT SMELTZER

10/2/23 2:58 PM

Full Page (SOP).indd 4

9/27/23 11:12 AM

NOVEMBER SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS IN THIS ISSUE

Jennifer Kim, Senior Partner at Signature Estate and Investment Advisors

57

SEIA Century City Profile

61

Winter Travel

64-65

Tommy Bahama

72-73

Callahan & Blaine

101

A Helping Hand

103

Goodwill Industries of Orange County

104

Catholic Charities

105

Community Action Partnership of OC

106

Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach

106

Casa Youth Shelter

107

Human Options, Inc.

107

Illumination Foundation

108

Orangewood Foundation

108

Pacifica Christian High School

109

Charitable Events Calendar

62-63

102

14

Resorts World Las Vegas

United Way Orange County

ORANG E C OA S T | October 2023

TOC_OCM1123.indd 14

10/3/23 11:10 AM

230928 5 Points Orange Coast F-P.pdf

Full Page (SOP).indd 1

1

9/30/23

1:23 PM

10/2/2023 9:37:22 AM

E D ITO R ’S LET TE R

T

he nonprofit Working Wardrobes has been serving Orange County for more than 30 years, helping veterans, unemployed or underemployed residents, young people, and seniors get into the workforce. I certainly knew about the group and its wonderful efforts in our community, but I am very tardy in understanding how easy it is to contribute: not just through donating clothes but also by slightly shifting a habit (obsession?) I already have—shopping!

Working Wardrobes runs two Hanger Boutiques and two Hanger Outlets in O.C. Bargain hunters like me will find an array of glorious items and designer pieces that a small army of committed experts and volunteers have pulled from thousands of donations each year. Working Wardrobes CEO Bonni Pomush says the clothing, shoes, and accessories at the shops are “liquid gold” in terms of helping job seekers. She’s also quick to point out the environmental benefit to shopping second-hand goods. Thanks to fortunate timing during the silent auction at the group’s gala in September (Page 67), my bid won a one-hour Fashion Frenzy shopping spree at the vast Working Wardrobes donation center. There I met Johanna Hulme, the keen-eyed operations manager who keeps the enormous inventory well-organized, and Rosario Castorena, manager of the Tustin boutique and the in-house stylist who did stunning work on all the mannequins and models at the gala. They pulled gorgeous clothes, I played dress-up, and we chatted about the group’s incredible work and how much they both love what they do. Johanna studied at FIDM and proved invincible with her choices for me. I knew I’d be in good hands as soon as I spotted Rosario’s fabulous hat; lucky for you, her styling services are available at the Tustin boutique. The end of our session left me overwhelmed by the volume of donated goods in the warehouse, astounded by the generosity of people in our county, grateful for all the staff and volunteers at Working Wardrobes, and eager to haunt those boutiques! In this season of giving, it’s reassuring to learn I can help a tiny bit this way.

M S . AL AN G I B B O N S

ED I TO R- I N - C H I EF AG I B B O N S @ O R A N G ECOA S T.CO M

M Y FAV O R I T E T H I N G S I N T H I S I S S U E CANstruction Orange County is a fun annual event bringing attention to food insecurity here. I love this Mickey structure.

Winter travel doesn’t have to mean snow, but this year should bring another good season on the slopes if you’re longing for that.

PAG E 23

PAG E 7 8

16

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

16 Editors Letter.indd 16

I’m a big fan of “OC World’s” Manuel Gómez and his ideas about the importance of local news.

PAG E 92

We cover intriguing details about O.C. in every issue. Test your knowledge (or memory) with our quiz.

PAG E 9 4

illustration by MARTHA NIPPERT

9/28/23 5:03 PM

DISCOVER Full Page (SOP).indd 5

AMC Tustin 14 Barnes & Noble

NOW OPEN

Bar Louie Bowlero Casa del Sol J. Zhou Cuisine Lucille’s BBQ Luna Rossa Prego Restaurant RAKKAN Ramen RA Sushi The Winery Restaurant The Yellow Chilli ZIP Korean BBQ

COMING SOON Fluffy Fluffy, Prime Hot Pot, Vietnamese Café, Japanese BBQ & Karaoke Bar

TheDistrictTL.com @DistrictTustin

@TheDistrictTustin

Photo: Lamb Chops over Prosecco Risotto available at Prego Restaurant.

9/27/23 11:12 AM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alan Gibbons

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Christopher Gialanella cgialanella@orangecoast.com

DESIGN DIRECTOR Andrew Hart

DIRECTOR OF SALES Carly Allen callen@orangecoast.com

SENIOR EDITOR Astgik Khatchatryan

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Linda Wallis Goldstein lgoldstein@orangecoast.com

STYLE & HOME EDITOR Chelsea Raineri

ACCOUNT DIRECTORS Randy Bilsley, rbilsley@orangecoast.com Edward Estrada, eestrada@orangecoast.com Richard Lockhart, rlockhart@orangecoast.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Scott Smeltzer DINING CRITIC Gretchen Kurz

HEAD OF EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING Traci Takeda, ttakeda@orangecoast.com

EVENTS EDITOR Robin Jones

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Denise Philbert, dphilbert@lamag.com

COPY EDITOR Shayna Sobol

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Natalie Malins, nmalins@lamag.com

EDITORIAL INTERNS Andrew Ayala, Kristen Wilcox

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Sheila Ramezani, sramezani@lamag.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle Bauter, Lauren Cavalieri, Benjamin Epstein, Jessica Kim, Greg Nagel, Allene Symons, Valerie Takahama, Cathy Thomas, Theresa Walker

STRATEGY AND PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR Suzy Starling, sstarling@lamag.com DIGITAL COORDINATOR MJ Carpentier, mcarpentier@orangecoast.com Max Stretton, mstretton@lamag.com

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Daniel Crespo, Martha Nippert ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE LLC 2102 Business Center Drive, Suite 125 Irvine, CA 92612 949-862-1133, orangecoast.com

SALES COORDINATOR Jared Polter, jpolter@lamag.com COMMUNITY LIAISON EMERITUS Gloria Zigner

ENGINE VISION MEDIA COFOUNDER Mark Geragos

NATIONAL SALES OFFICES NEW YORK Cynthia Donaher, cynthia@donahermedia.com

COFOUNDER Ben Meiselas

WEST COAST Shana Wong, 808-386-0872, shanawong@me.com

COO AND HEAD OF EVENTS Shelby J. Russell srussell@orangecoast.com

HAWAII: DESTINATION MARKETING Justin Nakaahiki, 808-739-2200 SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES 626-659-8004

MIDWEST & TEXAS: C S MEDIA Cheryl Schuldt, 847-251-3483, fax: 847-589-8491

12 print issues $19.95 orangecoast.com/subscribe CHARITABLE EVENTS SUBMISSIONS orangecoast.com /submit-a-charitable-event

18

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

18 Masthead.indd 18

9/28/23 5:04 PM

SHARON STONE X LENSCRAFTERS

SEE T H E M AGIC I N EVERY STO RY Plan your visit at Ala Moana Center

©2023 Luxottica of America Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Full Page (SOP).indd 21

9/29/23 10:05 AM

PU B LI S H E R ’S PAG E

N

ovember is upon us, and it’s also the kickoff to the holiday season, as it seems like it starts right after Halloween these days.

As we prepare our holiday festivities, visit loved ones, and shop and eat to our heart’s content, it is always a great time to reflect on the year we had and what we have planned for the upcoming year.

(Keep an eye out for a big 2024 for Orange Coast!) I always enjoy this season, when I am walking the corridors of South Coast Plaza or enjoying the wide-open fresh air of Fashion Island. Orange County has something for all of us.

We’re looking forward to all sorts of celebrations here this month. Check out South Coast Plaza’s annual tree lighting right in front of the Westin South Coast Plaza and Santa’s arrival and tree lighting at Fashion Island. These two amazing centers continue to be the glue in keeping shopping and dining alive.

Two meaningful galas are also coming up. The 29th annual Candlelight Concert on Dec. 1 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts will raise money to support artist programs and educational initiatives at this beloved arts center. Another annual holiday tradition is the CASA Holiday Luncheon at VEA, which supports kids in the foster care system.

Be sure to enjoy everything cool in this issue, and enjoy your family and friends this holiday season. We have a lot to be grateful for.

C HR I S T O P HE R G I A L A NE L L A

President/Publisher Orange Coast Magazine cg ialanella@orangecoast.com Instag ram: @christopherg ia @orangecoastmag

20

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

20 Publishers Page.indd 20

10/2/23 3:00 PM

Fantasy islands.

The Florida Keys fulfill fantasies every day, with warm, clear water, world-class boating, fishing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, eco-tours, and countless other island adventures.

There’s never been a better time to visit The Florida Keys.

MCTG-6196 Orange Coast Ad v1 Full Page (SOP).indd 20

9/29/23 10:03 AM

innovative design ideas that defy gravity eggersmann since 1908

eggersmann Kitchens | Home Living

23811 Aliso Creek Rd, Suite 162 | Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 | 949.281.1299

eggersmannusa.com

new york | dania beach | naples | houston | dallas | chicago | los angeles | laguna niguel | pittsburgh | scottsdale | sand city | maui | honolulu | los cabos

Full Page (SOP).indd 6

8/1/23 12:17 PM

PEOPLE

PL AC ES

IN PLA IN S IG H T ÚTH E S C E N E One of seven CANstruction Orange County sculptures in the Home Wing of South Coast Plaza ÚP H OTO G R A P H BY Andrew Hart ÚB E H I N D TH E S H OT “If You CAN Dream It, You CAN Do It—Full Steam Ahead!”

by Disneyland Resort was constructed with 7,800 cans and awarded Best Original Design. The competition benefits the Orange County Food Bank, donating goods to shelters, soup kitchens, and other programs. This year’s total cans: 36,250, making up 30,000 pounds of food and 37,500 meals.

33°41’39.3”N 117°53’31.9”W

23 PP Opener.indd 23

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

23

9/28/23 5:05 PM

PEOPLE

PL AC E S

’HOODS

WHARF WONDERS New spots to treat yourself—and your pet—near the harbor in DANA POINT. by Jessica Kim

 GOOD TO KNOW

TH E P R E T Z E LR I A Open since July in the harbor’s Hansen Plaza, the snack shop serves freshly baked pretzel bites (small, $4.50; medium, $8.50; large, $16.50), which can be dipped in cheese, ranch, marinara, or mustard. The small cafe also serves organic Tractor lemonade ($4.50), vanilla and chocolate soft serve ($3.50), and coffee from O.C.-based True Love Coffee Co. 34669 GOLDEN LANTERN

TH E D O G G I E BA R K E RY Also opened this summer, the pet-friendly bakery carries a variety of house-made healthy treats for dogs, including cookies, doughnuts, cupcakes, and jerky, as well as supplies like toys, leashes, food bowls, and fun shark-themed life vests. Cakes can be made to order for any upcoming birthday celebrations. The store also carries bottles, candles, and snacks for humans. 34495 GOLDEN LANTERN, 949-886-2242

C LE A N J U I C E DA N A P O I NT With a focus on using the highest quality, organically sourced ingredients, Clean Juice founders Kat and Landon Eckles stay true to their belief in healthy eating. Find organic cold-pressed juices ($8.95), smoothies ($9.95), acai bowls ($13.95), and small bites including sandwiches ($11.95), wraps ($11.95), salads ($11.95), and toasts ($7.95).

Six juice-cleanse packages are also available, catering to various needs and lifestyles.

34201 STREET OF THE AMBER LANTERN, 949-503-1627

24

D O H E N Y C A FE Branded as “a new kind of beach-easy cafe,” Doheny Cafe is a sister establishment to Maison Cafe + Market and Giana Bakery + Provisions.

The menu consists of breakfast bites (including six iterations of waffles), salads, and sandwiches, which can be enjoyed in the expansive, coastal-chic interior, or packed for a picnic. The eatery also offers catering services. 34320 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, 949-503-1191

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F C L E A N J U I C E DA N A P O I N T

This is the first franchise location of North Carolinabased Clean Juice in Orange County.

ORANG E C OA S T | November 2023

24 PP Hoods.indd 24

9/28/23 5:05 PM

SPONSORED CONTENT

A NEW ERA IN VISION CORRECTION:

Dr. Feinerman’s Innovative Approach to Vision Correction Shines in Newport Beach IN THE realm of vision correction, innovation has been a constant companion throughout the years. From eyeglasses to contact lenses and laser surgeries, technology has continuously pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. One name that stands out in this ever-evolving landscape is Gregg Feinerman MD, based in Newport Beach. Dr. Feinerman has been at the forefront of vision correction for decades, and his latest endeavor, the EVO Implantable Collamer Lens (EVO ICL), is garnering attention for its revolutionary approach to enhancing vision.

A Visionary in Newport Beach

Discover the Breakthrough of EVO ICL

Nestled in the heart of Newport Beach, Dr. Feinerman’s practice is a beacon of cutting-edge eye care. With a commitment to providing the highest quality vision solutions, Dr. Feinerman has gained a reputation as a pioneer in the field. Patients from all over the world seek his expertise and personalized care, a testament to his dedication to improving their quality of life.

Introducing EVO ICL: A Leap Forward in Vision Correction The EVO ICL, short for Implantable Collamer Lens, is a game-changing innovation that has set a new standard in vision correction. Unlike traditional contact lenses or LASIK surgery, the EVO ICL is an implantable lens that works in harmony with the eye’s natural structures to correct a wide range of nearsightedness and astigmatism. This lens offers numerous advantages over other methods, making it an ideal solution for patients seeking high-quality vision correction.

Advantages of EVO ICL 1. Wide Range of Correction: EVO ICL is versatile and can address a large range of nearsightedness and astigmatism. This flexibility makes it a suitable for patients with a high degree of nearsightedness and astigmatism. Even patients with “coke bottle” glasses that are too strong to get corrected by LASIK can usually get fixed with EVO ICL. 2. Minimally Invasive: One of the most appealing aspects of EVO ICL is its minimally invasive nature.

The lens is inserted through a small opening just beneath the surface of the eye, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a quicker recovery time.

3. Sharp and Crisp Vision: EVO ICL provides exceptional visual clarity and quality, often surpassing what traditional eyeglasses or contact lenses can offer. This is due to the lens’s placement inside the eye, which avoids potential distortions caused by external lenses.

4. Reversible Option: Unlike some surgical procedures, EVO ICL is reversible. This factor can be reassuring to patients who may have concerns about permanent changes to their eyes.

The Experience at Dr. Feinerman’s Practice Patients who visit Dr. Feinerman’s practice in Newport Beach are met with a blend of expertise, innovation, and personalized care. Every experience begins with a thorough consultation during which Dr. Feinerman evaluates the patient’s unique needs and discusses the best course of action. This individualized approach ensures that each patient receives a tailored solution for their vision correction goals.

As technology continues to reshape the landscape of vision correction, Dr. Feinerman’s dedication to staying at the forefront of innovation remains unwavering. His use of the EVO ICL showcases his commitment to providing patients with the latest advancements that can significantly enhance their quality of life.

Dr. Feinerman’s practice stands as a beacon of progress, offering a glimpse into the future of vision correction. With EVO ICL, patients not only gain clear vision but also gain a new perspective on what’s possible in the world of eye care.

For those seeking a transformative approach to vision correction, Dr. Feinerman’s practice shines as a guiding light toward a future with better, sharper, and more vibrant vision.

9 4 9 . 6 3 1 . 47 8 0 | F e i n e r m a n V i s i o n . c o m 320 SUPERIOR AVENUE, SUITE 390, NEWPORT BEACH

Feinerman_OCM1023.indd 1

8/25/23 6:52 PM

PEOPLE

PL AC E S

O . C .’ S O W N

FOODFLUENC ER The woman behind Dada Eats, the recipe blog turned plant-based-lifestyle brand by Jessica Kim

O

riginally from Newport Beach, Samah Dada has become a notable name in the world of healthy food recipes. Inspired by her frequent visits to London during high school, living in San Francisco while attending UC Berkeley, and eventual move to New York City, Dada’s passion for food was brought to the digital space in 2015 when she decided to share her photography and vegan recipes on Instagram.

Named on this year’s Forbes 30 Under 30 list, Dada is now a highly rated cookbook author and video host, with a series on the “Today” show’s digital channel.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR DEBUT COOKBOOK , “DADA EATS LOVE TO COOK IT” ? ¼The focus is on real, minimal, whole ingredients. I’m really averse to using the word “healthy” sometimes, because I think “healthy” can mean ice cream one day and salad the other. Your body and your mind need different things at different times. I want to maintain that balance.

My cookbook is inspired by the ethos: How can you make really delicious food by paring it back and making minimal choices in the kitchen? I don’t want it to be a huge task for someone to make my recipes. I want it to feel approachable. The cookbook really takes that ethos and spreads it throughout entrees, appetizers, sides, desserts, all of it, with also some Indian influences because a big part of my love for food comes from my Indian culture.

WHAT’S IT LIKE GETTING TO HOST YOUR OWN COOKING SHOWS AND SEGMENTS WITH THE “ TODAY” SHOW? ¼It’s so fun! I started there as a production assistant. Since then, I’ve done a few shows for them. In my latest one, we went across the U.S. and discovered innovative plantbased businesses and restaurants that are really changing the landscape. If someone told me in college that in 2023, I would be on the “Today” show doing my own segments, I would’ve been like “That’s such a great joke.”

THOUGHTS ON THE O.C . FOOD SC ENE? ¼I think the O.C. food scene is growing quickly! It’s really cool to see how much is changing and how interesting it’s become. I went to South of Nick’s for the first time, and it was really great. We don’t have anything like Mendocino Farms in New York, but I would go there all the time with my mom. It’s just easy and good. Nourish is an Indian Ayurvedic spot (in Costa Mesa), and it’s really good too.

26

P H OTO G R A P H BY B R EN DA N W I X T ED

HOW DID YOUR CAREER IN FOOD MEDIA COME ABOUT? ¼I was always really interested in food, but I actually started Dada Eats as a hobby. I was in New York interning at CNN for a summer, and I was just taken by the food scene. I started Dada Eats as a place to put all the food I was eating and the recipes I was making because my camera roll was getting clogged up. That was in 2015, so it wasn’t normal to have a separate food Instagram account.

Over the years, it became what it is today.

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

26 PP_OCs_Own.indd 26

9/28/23 5:05 PM

House of Sun South Coast Plaza 714.556.4808 ORB2140

Full Page (SOP).indd 2

10/2/2023 10:05:09 AM

PEOPLE

PL AC E S

C U LT U R E P H IL E

HAPPY TAILS Yorba Linda author Lisa Wiehebrink writes books to teach kids how to be kind and caring to pets and people alike. by Valerie Takahama

T

he former marketing consultant found a new calling as an author and literacy advocate after a chance encounter with a boy and his dog at a local park.

As founder of the nonprofit Tails That Teach, Wiehebrink partners with animal organizations and elementary schools to provide free books that children can take home—more than 600,000 so far.

Why are animals ideal for teaching lessons about kindness and compassion? ¼Typically for a child, one of the biggest relationships is with a pet. It’s one of their first opportunities to learn the cause and effect of their actions. If I pull the dog’s tail, he’s going to get upset with me. If I get too close while he’s eating, he’s going to growl at me. They quickly start learning these prosocial behaviors where they’re understanding that what they do impacts others. So to maintain that relationship and that bond, they want to treat the pet nicely, otherwise the pet’s not going to come anywhere near them. There are all these subliminal messages and lessons they’re learning by having a pet.

How did you discover your métier as a children’s book author? ¼One day I was at the park with our younger son, Jack, and I was observing another young boy who was playing with his puppy rather roughly, 28

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

28 PP Culturephile.indd 28

pulling him around by his leash, yanking him. The mom was there talking with friends so I didn’t want to interfere, of course, but this went on for 30 minutes. I finally walked over and got down to his level and said, “I love your new puppy.

He probably loves you. When you play, you like it when your friends play nicely with you. If I took your hood and pulled you around a little bit, that would hurt, right?” He looked at me and said, “I didn’t think about it like that.” All these lightbulbs went off. All these ideas flooded over me, and I wrote them down on a grocery list. I said, “I’m going to write a book.” There’s got to be a way to help children learn about cause and effect.

How did you find the illustrators for “Love Me Gently” (2012) and its sequel, “Gray Whiskers” (2017)? ¼I reached out to Cal State Fullerton and Orange Coast College. I (attended) both schools so I went to the art departments and let them know I was looking for an

intern or someone who was looking for a senior project.

I wanted to give them an opportunity. “Love Me Gently” was illustrated by Eleanor Harbison, who was graduating from Orange Coast College, and “Gray Whiskers” was illustrated by Karen Gilstrap, who was graduating from Cal

State Fullerton. I gave them each the manuscript and asked them to come up with a character that matched what was in their mind. I did give them pictures of my sons and my dog, Cooper. Both of them have gone on to have amazing careers as illustrators, so I’m happy for them. photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:06 PM

Full Page (SOP).indd 2

9/27/23 11:10 AM

PEOPLE

PL AC E S

EVENTS

N OV. 4 MARK MORRIS DANCE GROUP: “THE LOOK OF LOVE” The evening-length work created by iconic choreographer Mark Morris pays tribute to the music of Burt Bacharach and his lyricist Hal David.

For the show, pianist and composer Ethan Iverson created new arrangements of Bacharach’s hits, including “I Say a Little Prayer,” “Walk on By,” and “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head.” The Mark Morris Dance Group’s Music Ensemble will sing the new arrangements live throughout the performance. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

composed by John Williams and Michael Giacchino for the “Star Wars” films, including “The Phantom Menace,” “Revenge of the Sith,” and “Rogue One—A Star Wars Story.” Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org N OV. 4 A N D 5

California Wine Festival, Midori, and more by Robin Jones N OV. 2

N OV. 3

MANDY PATINKIN IN CONCERT: BEING ALIVE WITH ADAM BEN-DAVID ON PIANO Known for his roles in “The Princess Bride,” “Criminal Minds,” and “Homeland,” Patinkin is also a Broadway legend who won a Tony Award for his performance in “Evita.” He’ll sing his favorite Broadway tunes and classics from the American songbook by composers such as Irving Berlin, Stephen Sondheim, and Cole Porter. Composer Adam Ben-David will accompany him on piano. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

“THE TAPE FACE SHOW” New Zealand comedian Sam Willis, aka Tape Face, performs an entire show with tape over his mouth, using props, puppetry, and volunteers from the audience to entertain the crowd. The act, which he has performed more than a thousand times in Las Vegas, got him to the finals of “America’s Got Talent.” Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-990-7722, curtistheatre.com

30

N OV. 3 A N D 4 PACIFIC SYMPHONY: MUSIC OF “STAR WARS” Led by conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez, Pacific Symphony performs the iconic songs

T H R O U G H N OV. 5 THE 59TH ANNUAL ANAHEIM ART ASSOCIATION JURIED ART SHOW Dozens of Anaheim-based artists working in acrylics, watercolors, oils, and more display their work in the juried exhibit. The Anaheim Art Association, founded in 1963, aims to promote appreciation of art and provide its members with opportunities to show their work. Muzeo, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714-956-8936, muzeo.org N OV. 6 A CONVERSATION WITH AMOR TOWLES Towles, a bestselling author of historical fiction, is known for creating unforgettable characters. His first book, “Rules of Civility,” set in Manhattan in 1938, was named one of the best books of 2011 by The Wall Street Journal. “A Gentleman in Moscow,” his second book, was on the

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F M U S C O C EN T ER FO R T H E A R T S

DON ’ T MI SS IN NOVEMBER

ARTISTIC LICENSE FAIR With more than 50 artisans from L.A., Orange, and Riverside counties displaying their work, items for sale at the fair will include jewelry, ceramics, textiles, upcycled clothing, glass sculpture, and gourd art. It’s the fair’s 29th year, and the third time it has been held on the Muckenthaler grounds. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-7386595, themuck.org

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

30 PP Events.indd 30

9/28/23 5:07 PM

LA native

Full Page (SOP).indd 8

9/27/23 11:13 AM

PL AC E S

EVENTS impact African American, Chinese, Irish, and Native American communities had on the development of the Transcontinental Railroad. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-4804278, soka.edu

N OV. 6 TH R O U G H 22 “ONCE” The Muck’s Electric Company Theatre presents the musical based on the film of the same name. It follows a young Irish guitar player who’s about to give up on making it as a musician when he meets a Czech pianist who reminds him of the power of dreams.

The show won eight Tony Awards in 2012, including best musical and best orchestrations. Cast members play their own instruments in the show, which will be staged in the Muckenthaler’s gallery space. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org bestseller list for 52 weeks and landed on the Chicago Tribune and Washington Post best books of the year lists. His most recent novel, “The Lincoln Highway,” debuted at No. 1 on the bestseller list and was one of President Barack Obama’s favorite books of 2021. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org N OV. 9 LIBRARY LIVE: STEVE LOPEZ Four-time Pulitzer Prize winner Steve Lopez, a columnist for the Los Angeles Times, presents a lecture offering advice on finding your next path in life. The author of “Independence Day” and “The Soloist,” which won a PEN USA award for literary nonfiction, Lopez has worked as a journalist since 1971. Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949-548-2411, nbplf.foundation N OV. 9 A N D 10 CALIFORNIA WINE FESTIVAL This event returns to Huntington Beach for two days of oceanfront tasting where attendees can sample pours from winemaking regions across California, as well as bites from many of Orange County’s top restaurants, including Duke’s Huntington Beach, Nardo Italian, Cucina Alessa, Bluegold, and LSXO. There will also be exhibitors, live entertainment, and a silent auction to benefit Golden Rule Charity, which is dedicated to helping hospitality industry professionals during hardship. Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, californiawinefestival.com N OV. 10 MIDORI WITH FESTIVAL STRINGS LUCERNE The Grammy Award-winning violinist made her debut with the New York Philharmonic in 1982 at age 11. In the 40 years since, she has become one of the best32

N OV. 16 T H R O U G H 18 PACIFIC SYMPHONY: CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ A new work by California composer Gabriella Smith, “Bioluminescence Chaconne,” anchors the concert. It marks Pacific Symphony’s participation in the inaugural California Festival, launched to celebrate new music coming out of the Golden State.

The program also includes works by Adam Schoenberg, Rachmaninoff, and Debussy.

Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714755-5788, pacificsymphony.org O P EN S N OV. 17

known classical musicians in the world, and in May 2021 she was awarded a Kennedy Center Honor. In a concert with chamber orchestra Festival Strings Lucerne, she’ll play selections from Honegger, Schumann, and Beethoven. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 949-553-2422, philharmonicsociety.org

“COLOR IS THE FIRST REVELATION OF THE WORLD” The exhibit inspired by the color theories of Brazilian artist Hélio Oiticica focuses on monochromatic works in hues of blue.

The works, ranging from abstract art to portraits to large-scale sculptural installations, are displayed in four separate galleries telling stories about how color and form intersect. The show was curated by Heidi Zuckerman, OCMA’s CEO and director. Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714-7802130, ocma.art

N OV. 11

O P EN S N OV. 25

LARAINE NEWMAN & ALAN ZWEIBEL The conversation between Laraine Newman, an original cast member on “Saturday Night Live,” and Alan Zweibel, one of its original writers, lifts the curtain on the early days of the iconic comedy sketch show. Newman was a founding member of The Groundlings, the sketch comedy troupe that launched the careers of Maya Rudolph and Will Ferrell, among others. Zweibel, winner of multiple Emmy Awards, has also written for “The Late Show With David Letterman” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

LIGHTING OF THE BAY Families from across Southern California travel to Back Bay in Newport Beach to watch as the placid body of water transforms at dusk into a glittering scene worthy of a holiday card, with more than 50 electric Christmas trees and holiday decorations. The lighting happens every evening through New Year’s Day. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949-729-3863, newportdunes.com

N OV. 11 AMERICAN RAILROAD: SILKROAD ENSEMBLE WITH RHIANNON GIDDENS The Silkroad Ensemble, a musical collective, was founded by cellist Yo-Yo Ma in 2000 to bring together world-class musicians from around the world. The concert, a part of the “American Railroad” initiative, uses music to recontextualize the

N OV. 24 T H R O U G H 26 CHRISTMAS WITH THE ALLEY CATS In an annual Curtis Theatre tradition, the popular four-man doo-wop group sings holiday favorites in a 1950s style. They’ve performed in concert with the Coasters, the Drifters, and the Beach Boys; opened for Jerry Seinfeld and Joan Rivers; sung for U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and at the White House; and served as Jay Leno’s opening act for 10 years. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-9907722, curtistheatre.com

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F M U C K EN T H A L ER C U LT U R A L C EN T ER

PEOPLE

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

30 PP Events.indd 32

9/28/23 5:07 PM

THERE’S ONLY ONE CHOICE FOR SENIOR LIVING. Choosing the right Senior Living community is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Care and safety come first, but lifestyle and independence are important too. At Belmont Village, you don’t have to choose. Uncompromised care with licensed nurses 24/7, award-winning enrichment and memory programs, luxurious communities with service that anticipates your every need – all delivered by an experienced staff.

Is it time to make a change? If you are considering a change in your senior living choice, we’re here to help. Contact our Family Advisors at 949-205-7075 or visit BelmontVillage.com/AlisoViejo to learn more.

ALISO VIEJO

2023

Care you can count on | Owner-operated Senior Living since 1997 Medication management with licensed nurse on-site 24/7 | Circle of Friends® award-winning memory care Dedicated Alzheimer’s care | Physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness | Nationally-recognized, highly trained staff ©2023 Belmont Village, L.P. | RCFE 306005563

Full Page (SOP).indd 1

9/27/23 11:10 AM

PEOPLE

PL AC E S

EVENTS E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com

O P EN S N OV. 24 WINTER FEST OC Visitors return to the winter-themed carnival each year for the 150-foot ice-tubing slide, nightly Christmas tree lighting celebration, ice bumper cars, seasonal sweet treats, and festive holiday performers. New attractions this year include an outdoor ice-skating trail and a real snow play area with a snow carousel. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, winterfestoc.com

O P EN S N OV. 25 “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” SCR founding member Richard Doyle again takes on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in the holiday classic, which has been staged at South Coast Repertory since 1979. As he encounters the Ghosts of Christmas past, present, and yet to come over the course of one fateful night, he discovers the true meaning of Christmas.

South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org N OV. 30

“THE SECRET GARDEN” Based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic children’s book, the musical tells the story of Mary Lennox, an 11-year-old who goes to live with her uncle and his invalid son after her parents die in a cholera outbreak. In her new home, Mary encounters ghosts and spirits who help her and a young gardener bring the manor’s magical garden back to life. Chance Theater, 5522

DIANE SCHUUR AT 70: AN EVENING OF SONGS AND STORIES Jazz vocalist Schuur has been entertaining audiences with her pitch-perfect voice and signature style for more than 40 years.

The winner of two Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Performance, she has recorded with B.B. King, Ray Charles, Herbie Hancock, Alison Krauss, and more. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

Enjoy all the luxuries of your car and leave the responsibility of driving it to us.

Our clients don’t drink & drive.

We invite you to become one.

949.283.0863 | yourcarourdriver.com | Est. 2007 Fully Insured & Bonded | Employee-Operated

34

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F O C FA I R & E V EN T C EN T ER

N OV. 24 T H R O U G H D EC . 23

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

30 PP Events_DP.indd 34

9/29/23 9:40 AM

A Cure for Fungus Nails?

How Dr. Ivar Roth is eliminating fungus with

NAILCUR

TM

Dr. Roth has created an innovative approach to eliminating fungus by combining state-of-the-art lasers and a comprehensive nail and foot care regimen, aptly named - nailcur™.

The nailcur™ program is guaranteed to kill fungus, restore the nail, and keep fungus away. The proprietary 4-Step Process combines: Specialized Laser Treatments Meticulous Nail Care Daily Maintenance Kit Nail Vitamins and Antifungals The entire treatment process takes approximately four months - one session every two weeks for a total of eight visits. With both the laser treatment and the prescribed at-home maintenance, patients can have renewed skin and nails by Summer.

If you suffer from fungus, dry skin and cracks found on the soles of the feet, it is most likely also caused by a fungal infection. The nailcur™ Nighttime Foot Rejuvenation System is composed of protocols and products to fight your fungal infection and beautify your feet. This system is all part of the nailcur™ treatment.

Our nailcur™ Guarantee IVAR E. ROTH, DPM/MPH

If you do not see at least a 50% improvement of your fungal infection after completing treatment, we will refund half the cost of the eight laser sessions.

Nail fungus is unsightly and can cause severe toe and foot pain if gone untreated. Call our office to book your nailcur™ consult today!

Before/After Photos

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO VIEW BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS: WWW.NAILCUR.COM

Concierge Podiatry and Spa was founded by Dr. Ivar E. Roth, Board Certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, and Founding Chairman of Hoag's Section of Podiatric Surgery.

Concierge Podiatry and Spa 495 Old Newport Blvd. #300, Newport Beach, CA 92663 (949) 650-1147

Full Page.indd 3

6/28/23 12:03 PM

gae tanoi nc . c om 714.536.6942 CUSTOM INSTALLATION & REFINISHING FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1955 Contractor Credit: Gonterman Construction / Photo Credit: Darleen Halaby

Gaetano_OCM1023.indd Full Page (SOP).indd 5 1

8/29/23 8/22/23 12:01 5:25 PM

ST Y LE

HOME

T HA N KF UL FOR TIF FA N Y ÚTH E F I N D Pair these Tiffany & Co. Berries red wineglasses in amethyst purple, Tiffany blue, and amber yellow ($375 each) with your Thanksgiving feast. ÚG O O D TO K N OW These glasses are made from lead crystal and are a theme from The Tiffany Archives. ÚW H E R E Tiffany & Co. at South Coast Plaza, 714-540-5330 and tiffany.com photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

37 SH Opener.indd 37

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

37

9/28/23 5:08 PM

STYLE

HOME

S T Y L E TA L K W I T H...

CARLY L ANDIG The Newport Beach-based stylist has worked with Sofia Richie and Kaia Gerber. by Chelsea Raineri

C

arly Landig’s love for styling started at a young age.

“I’ve always wanted to be in fashion, and my mom said that one of my first words was ‘shoes,’ so it’s been in my blood,” she says. “For me, fashion is my creative expression, just as with any other artist.” After deciding to work for herself earlier this year, she began offering styling services that run the gamut from wardrobe updates to photo shoots. Landig, who also works with celebrity clients, can be contacted through her website or Instagram.

How did you get into styling? ¼ I interned in the summers when I was at UC Irvine—in editorial, public relations, brand marketing, and styling. After I graduated, I moved to London and did internships out there. I spent most of my career at Nordstrom and Who What Wear … which I absolutely loved.

When did you branch out on your own? ¼ In January. I do celebrity styling, personal styling, editorial, and I work with brands on their campaigns. My mom recently passed away from a 20year battle with cancer, and it really redirected my own values and career pursuits. I also want to honor her in that process. I’m proud of myself for going out on my own.

What does your process look like for personal styling? ¼ I get to know my clients and build a relationship because fashion is all about trust—it’s how we present ourselves to the world. I’ll go through their closet and see what key pieces we want to keep working with and what’s needed. I’ll take them shopping to look at brands and touch and feel materials. We talk about what their day to day looks like because I could have a million ideas, but if it doesn’t fit with their lifestyle, it’s not going to work. If it’s eventbased, then I’ll learn about where they’re going, the attire, and I’ll pull mood boards and brands.

What tips do you have for updating a wardrobe? ¼ Invest in core wardrobe staples, so an amazing blazer, an outerwear piece such as a long coat, a crisp oversize white button-down, bags, shoes, and the perfect pair of jeans— relaxed fit is in. I am all about a

38

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

38 SH Style Talk With.indd 38

photographs by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:08 PM

STYLE

HOME

S T Y L E TA L K W I T H...

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

Capsule wardrobe pieces such as a leather jacket and blue jeans

capsule wardrobe where everything works with everything, and you always look elevated and on trend.

The trend cycles are fast these days, so just incorporate a hint of what is “now” into your look to stay modern and relevant. Not every trend is going to work for everybody, and you don’t need to follow every trend. It’s defining what is the client’s personal aesthetic, and then we can try on which trends actually work while staying true to the core of who they are. I don’t want to push product that isn’t right for someone. Everybody has their own personal look and taste; it’s just about refining that and homing in on that and then injecting a little bit of newness.

Gift Cards Available WE’VE

Enderle Center MOVED

17300 E. 17th St., Ste. A, Tustin

714-665-5994

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

TRUSTED DEALER ALTERNATIVE FOR SERVICE AND REPAIR OF YOUR LUXURY & EXOTIC VEHICLES BENTLEY ~ FERRARI ~ McLAREN ~ LAMBORGHINI ~ ASTON MARTIN ~ MASERATI FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIANS ~ FACTORY PARTS ~ PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

Tell us about styling Tiffany and Gio Helou for “Selling the OC.” ¼ “Selling the OC” is more reflective of that Southern California and Newport Beach aesthetic. I want them both to feel like themselves, but also really elevated … and position them as tastemakers in their own right.

What other celebrities have you worked with? ¼ I worked with Sofia Richie for Who What Wear’s August cover feature— they invited me to come on the project with them. (I also worked with) Kaia Gerber, who is their September cover star. There have been a lot of fun projects.

PICK UP AND DROP OFF SERVICE AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE

986 West 17th Street, Costa Mesa | 949-646-1875

ragingbull-performance.com

carlylandig.com November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

38 SH Style Talk With_DP.indd 39

39

9/29/23 9:41 AM

STYLE

HOME

HOT SHOP

INRETROSPECT The Huntington Beach storefront celebrates five years at its Gothard Street location. by Chelsea Raineri

T

racee Viglio-Anastasi and Adam Anastasi began selling midcentury modern furniture in 2017 while they sourced pieces to stage homes for Adam’s real estate business. They eventually rented three storage units to sell furniture out of before relocating to the spacious warehouse that is now the home of Inretrospect. “This all started as a hobby,” Tracee says. “It’s just organically evolved and (we’ve added things) that interest us. It’s been a lot of fun.”

The first floor of the warehouse features midcentury modern pieces including credenzas and dining tables sourced from locales such as Palm Springs and Napa Valley, as well as pieces Tracee and Adam have purchased or consigned from customers. Vintage records and several vintage clothing vendors are also downstairs.

“We get a lot of high school kids in here who are shopping for clothing,” Tracee says. “It’s such a cool range, and I feel like there’s something for everyone.”

This year, the brand’s second retail shop closed, and the couple decided to expand the warehouse to include a boutique inside where customers will find smaller goods such as handmade silver jewelry, macramé, candles, and ceramics. Head upstairs for vendors selling home decor including the couple’s other brand, Viglio Vintage, as well as a dried floral bar.

Be sure to follow the shop on Instagram for upcoming pop-ups that feature live music, food trucks, and vendors.

18411 Gothard St. Huntington Beach 657-845-4022 Inretrospectoc.com

40

RO C K O U T

B OW LED OVER

D R ESS ED UP

Midcentury Danish teak Georg Jensen rocking chair, $850

Vintage signed Richard Blenko glass bowl, $75

Walnut tallboy dresser by Kipp Stewart for Drexel Declaration series, $1,050

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

40 SH HotShop.indd 40

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:09 PM

WESTMINSTER TEAK L U X U R Y

T E A K

F U R N I T U R E

Outdoors ... at home.

Aman Dais Collection

D EALER O PPO RT U NIT IES AVAILAB LE

844.446.0001

www.teakfurniture.com/oc

BU ILT T O C O NT RAC T SPEC IF IC AT IO NS WIT H PREMIU M Q U ALIT Y TEA K F RO M RENEWABLE PLANT AT IO NS

Use Promo Code OC2023 for additional 5% savings

VISIT OUR FLAGSHIP SHOWROOM IN ANAHEIM, CA

Full Page (SOP).indd 16

9/27/23 11:17 AM

STYLE

HOME

FINDS LOCAL FIND!

2

1 3

LEATHER WEATHER Drape yourself in this material for fall.

by Chelsea Raineri

4

6

5

Bottega Veneta knot buckle leather belt, $550, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-7591900

1

42

Nappa pleated coat, $7,750; shiny calfskin Puzzle tote, $4,250; and lambskin toy boot, $2,450; Loewe, South Coast Plaza, 714-464-7420

2

The Kenzie jacket, $120, Mod Ref, The Lab, 213-741-0621

3

Hybrid wraparound biker skirt, $4,500, Alexander McQueen, South Coast Plaza, 657-205-4477

4

Balenciaga Hourglass XS handbag in crocodileembossed calfskin, $2,800, Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza, 714-540-3233

5

Hoxton Oxford shoe, Hermès, $1,025, South Coast Plaza, 714-437-1725

6

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

42 SH Finds.indd 42

9/28/23 5:09 PM

FOR THE LONG RIDE...

I worked mowing lawns when I was 17 and always went to the dump to get rid of the lawn waste.

I couldn’t believe how many beautiful things I found I knew I could fix. After many trips to the dump, I decided to make something that wouldn’t break and save the world. Being a surfer in the 60’s, I came across many broken sandals across the beach. It finally came to me that I could make a better sandal that felt good, lasted long, and wouldn’t end up at the dump in a landfill.

Through trial and error, I developed a “layered construction” by combining improved densities of sponge rubber, which allowed me to repair the sandals if the straps ever pulled out. I used better leather sources and formulated my glue to hold the straps and layers together. The straps were sewn using bonded nylon thread and came together with a 2000 lb. parachute box-x stitch toe construction.

Forty-seven years later, my team endeavors to keep the quality high, repair sandals if needed, and donate old sandals with life still left in them to feet in need. I hope you enjoy my sandals.

- Jay “Sparky” Longley, Founder & CEO

is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization created to help people, animals, and philanthropic groups in need. Rainbow® Sandals Foundation (RSF) donated 700 pairs of Repair • Reuse • Recycle to Capo Beach Church for their Red Door High School Ministry mission to Skid Row. RSF recently helped OC’s Special Spokes (OCSS), a non-profit that makes adaptive tricycles for kids with special needs. If you would like to help Rainbow® Sandals Foundation help others, please go to rainbowsandalsfoundation.org

Full Page (SOP).indd 30

8/3/23 4:34 PM

STYLE

HOME

ON THE MARKET

GIVING THANKS $3.9 M I LLI O N S a nta An a

WISDOM FROM

a Turkey Trot volunteer

44

Dave DuRee has volunteered for Dana Point’s Turkey Trot since 1998. He looks back on his time spent at the race.

VOLUNTEERING …

My wife and I got involved volunteering through the Chamber of Commerce.

We enjoyed it so much and loved being part of the community, so it just became a regular thing. We started by working registration and preregistration. Now I basically am a floater; wherever they need me, that’s where I go.

FAVORITE MEMORIES …

I remember runners coming back dripping wet from the rain and asking, “Can we sign up for the next race?” They were having such a fun time. I’ve watched families grow where kids who were running in the race will come up to me now and say, “Hey, you’re still that same guy!”

I do this loud turkey warble, and I have a turkey amulet, which is an old rubber chicken with some

feathers and beads, that I wear around my neck.

WHAT TO EXPECT …

We get down there at 5 in the morning … and that intersection begins to swell with people. Then just as quickly, everyone runs home to make dinner. Wear (several) layers of clothes and make sure to preregister. Bring your energy and enthusiasm.

P R O P ER T Y P H OTO G R A P H S BY J O EL DA N TO ; H E A D S H OT C O U R T E S Y O F DAV E D U R EE

à 4,100 square feet à 4 bedrooms à 5 bathrooms à Entertain in the lounge with a wet bar and wine fridge. à Of note: Host Thanksgiving in the large dining room featuring a custom table with seating for 12. à 1322 Faren Drive à Deborah Robinson, 949-5332234 and John Stanaland, 949689-9047

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

44 SH OTM.indd 44

9/28/23 5:09 PM

Celebration Gala Celebration Gala Celebration Gala & & Gala Celebration & Celebration Gala & Design Excellence Awards Design Excellence Awards & Design Excellence Awards 2023 2023 Awards 2023 Design Excellence Design Excellence 2023 Awards 2023

ASID.indd Full Page (SOP).indd 1 24

9/29/23 9/28/23 10:14 2:42 PM AM

Best Best Small Small Bath Bath Trisha Goyal Trisha Goyal Ocean Lane Interiors Ocean Lane Interiors

Best Best Large Large Bath Bath Valarie Mina Valarie Mina Transitions Designs Transitions Designs

Best Best Small Small Kitchen Kitchen Sara Martin Sara Martin Talia Designs Talia Designs

Best Best Large Large Kitchen Kitchen Adriel Cogdal Adriel Cogdal Adriel Designs Adriel Designs

ASID.indd Full Page (SOP).indd 2 25

9/29/23 9/28/23 10:15 2:42 PM AM

Best Great Room Frank Pitman Frank Pitman

esigns

Best Guest Bedroom Megan Siason M St0

io Interior

esign

Best Master Bedroom Rejoy Marsella Rejoy Interiors

Best Youth Space Trisha Goyal Ocean Lane Interiors

ASID.indd Full Page (SOP).indd 3 26

9/29/23 9/28/23 10:15 2:43 PM AM

Best Best Indoor Indoor -Outdoor Outdoor Space Space Jessica Jessica Jones Jones Jess Jess Jones Jones Design Design

-o0, -o0,

Best Best Special Special Space Space Lisa Lisa Slayman Slayman Slayman Slayman Design Design Associates Associates

Best Best Hospitality Hospitality Space Space S05anne S05anne

ea1atta ea1atta

Best Best Student Student Project Project Leila Leila at$an at$an

Saddleback Saddleback College College

ASID.indd Full Page (SOP).indd 4 27

9/29/23 9/28/23 10:15 4:20 PM AM

Best Showroom Aesthetic

Best New Product Orbital Table

Best Whole Home

Under 4000 sq ft Rejoy Marsella Rejoy nteriors

Best Whole Home Over 4001 sq ft Frank Pitman Frank Pitman

ASID.indd Full Page (SOP).indd 5 28

esi#ns

9/29/23 9/28/23 10:16 4:14 PM AM

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: @EZKEBABSTREETFOOD

AUTHENTIC LEBANESE FOOD

(714) 714-0595 1951 HARBOR BLVD., COSTA MESA, CA 92627

PATIO DINING NOW AVAILABLE!

Full Page (SOP).indd 14

9/27/23 11:16 AM

FO O D

DRINK

POKE & CE V ICH E TR IO ÚTH E D I S H Wonton chips, tortilla chips, and veggies accompany multiple kinds of poke in a choose-three option. ÚTH E D E TA I L S Pacific Catch ensures its sustainability practices are linked with groups such as Surfrider Foundation, Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program, and James Beard Foundation’s Smart Catch. ÚTH E P R I C E $25 ÚTH E P L AC E Pacific Catch ÚT U R N TH E PAG E for our review. photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

51 FD Opener.indd 51

February 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

51

9/28/23 5:10 PM

FOOD

52

DRINK

MAIN COURSE

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

52 FD Main Course.indd 52

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:10 PM

FOOD

DRINK

MAIN COURSE

PAC IFIC CATC H Polished service pairs with vast menu to lure locals at Tustin spot. by Gretchen Kurz

W

hat a relief to order a spicy lunch that isn’t yet another hot chicken sandwich. After a year’s worth of Nashville hot chicken debuts, the hot fish “burger” at Pacific Catch tastes positively novel. The soft black-sesame-seed bun yields to crispy batter-fried Alaskan cod fillets drizzled with sultry sambal, countered with fresh cucumber, pickled carrot, and a smear of sriracha aioli. It reads like a hot mess but satisfies like a fierce victory.

Open since May at Tustin Market Place, this is the first O.C. location for a San Francisco-based chain of 14 full-service venues. The West Coast fish house concept is now looking southward after 20 years of growth in Bay Area suburbs. In this case, West Coast means Pacific Rim flavors and seafood from Panama to Alaska. It’s a large palette to work from; add mashups to the mix and the resulting all-day menu is vast.

Lots of snacky starters and share plates kick things off, so it’s no surprise to learn the Pupu Platter is a top seller. It’s an array of easily shared foods—pork musubi rolls, coconut shrimp, shishito peppers, guacapoke, tortilla chips, and Korean banchan cucumbers. Unless your group needs an easy out, I suggest ordering starters individually.

The guaca-poke is an unholy alliance—better to order the classic Hawaiian ahi poke or the Baja shrimp ceviche. Piping hot and ultra crunchy, the coconut shrimp’s amber-hued batter is spiked with five-spice and fresh coconut. To retain the shrimp’s delicate flavor, use the accompanying Thai sweet chile sauce sparingly.

Look to the sushi section for well-executed eight-piece rolls to share, or not. Classics

are exactly that, starring scrupulously fresh ingredients and crab, not krab. Rising Sun is a likable specialty roll with sesame-crusted ahi and nori surrounding tempura shrimp.

Salmon fans, double your fun with salmon tempura topped with sashimi, yuzu tobiko, and ponzu—a roll named, what else, Salmon Lover. Or order your sushi one bite at a time with tacos—sashimi and sushi rice folded into nori squares—and bombs—poke inside sweet-soy inari pockets ($5 each, $14 a trio).

Of the two large sushi bowls, the ahi chirashi with poke and tataki triumphs over the Double Rainbow bowl that’s burdened by a centerpiece of gloppy crab salad.

The seafood space has evolved markedly since Pacific Catch’s debut two decades ago, and the group checks all the sustainability boxes, old and new. From the Surfrider Foundation and Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program to the James Beard Smart Catch and Ocean Friendly Restaurant program, conservation and responsible

««

3040 El Camino Real Tustin 714-613-0300 5 BEST DISHES à Baja taco platter à Fresh catch à Hot fish burger à Skirt steak Korean barbecue à Mai Tai PRICE RANGE Starters and sushi, $9 to $29; Tacos and burgers, $8 to $23; Entrees, $27 to $59 FYI: Check out the generous rewards program.

LEFT: From top: Mexican grill with guajillo shrimp, the Rising Sun sushi roll, spicy Pacific cocktail, and Korean surf & turf platter RIGHT: The restaurant’s design is clean and comfortable. photographs by SCOTT SMELTZER

52 FD Main Course.indd 53

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

53

9/28/23 5:11 PM

FOOD

DRINK

MAIN COURSE

sourcing are best practices, not merely alliances.

CEO and cofounder Keith Cox says the Tustin venue is “exceeding expectations” and notes locals are particularly drawn to Fresh Catch entrees. The mix-and-match format appeals for its customizable nature.

Pick one of five grilled fresh fish, say Snake River steelhead trout or yellowtail, then pick a sauce such as house-made miso or Asian herb chimichurri and choose two sides that range from Thai glazed Brussels sprouts to elote corn to kimchi fried rice. This one mere corner of the menu yields endless permutations.

But wait, there’s much more.

Look for solid plays hiding in the tacos and burgers category, where you’ll find the aforementioned hot fish sandwich. It pairs well with chile-lime fries. As does the seared rare ahi burger with avocado and pickled ginger. Crispy Baja cod tacos are winners à la carte or on a platter with unexpectedly tasty black beans.

There’s a wagyu cheeseburger for

Two-taco platter

the fish-averse, but the best beef gambit is the Korean barbecue plate with marinated skirt steak (not the underwhelming ribs). Slices of the hyper-savory cut share the plate

with spicy cucumber, Thai Brussels sprouts, kimchi rice, and a fried egg.

Awash in sunlight, the 210-seat space has all the California design elements—wicker light pendants, blond wood skylight, and a neon slogan wall including one that says “Wave to Table.” The effect is clean and comfortable, but it’s the staff that brings the aloha vibe. Every server I encountered on my visits answered my stickling questions with aplomb and had ready suggestions when I was lost in the sprawling menu. A 56-seat wraparound bar extends to the patio lined with booths, a good option at midweek happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. Signature drinks are wellconceived, and the classics are ably rendered. Some are even served by the pitcher.

This address was vacant far too long after Bonefish departed, so it’s encouraging to see Pacific Catch’s modern approach to seafood and hospitality is luring a steady stream of locals back with fare that’s truly new and service that’s truly polished. photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

Host Your holiday party in Spain!

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

52 FD Main Course_DP.indd 54

9/29/23 9:42 AM

Full Page (SOP).indd 3

10/2/2023 10:08:15 AM

FOOD

DRINK

QUOTES

INDI - CALI COOKING Sukhi Nagpal showcases her unique flavors at Rangeen Kitchen in Laguna Niguel. by Danielle Bauter

R

angeen Kitchen is the brainchild of Sukhi Nagpal, who opened the restaurant in 2022 after running a successful catering company in Los Angeles. Rangeen, which means “colorful” in Hindi, describes more than her

food: The restaurant’s walls are covered with vibrant murals depicting quirky characters representing a blending of cultures. Nagpal discusses her passion for nontraditional Indian cuisine, the inspiration for Rangeen Kitchen, and her plans for the future.

The concept of the restaurant started in 2017, when I left my corporate job. I decided that I should pursue my passion, and the corporate world wasn’t giving me that feeling of contentment. I started my catering company first, and I always had in mind that once I had the money, I would open my own restaurant. ȵ Given the fact that we live in California and I’m from India, it gave me the opportunity to blend those two cultures together. They are so similar in terms of the diversity, the people, and the food.

And nobody else was doing this kind of concept, especially in Orange County. So we decided to keep the authenticity of the food, but at the same time make it more accessible to the California population. ȵ Once we came up with the concept, we always thought that one way to be different was to blend our own spices. Because if you’re doing it store-bought, it’s going to give the same taste as any other Indian restaurant. And the reason why people tell us we’re different is because our spices are different. We love blending; we roast them fresh almost every week. ȵ Food was always my passion. Since age 7 or 8, I used to help my mom cook and bake in the kitchen. I love to discuss with my mom what my next recipe is going to be. She’s helped me a lot, as well as my mother-in-law and husband. I call him a master taster. ȵ My eventual goal is to make this a big organization in terms of having multiple stores.

When we started the concept, we hired people to help us document how operations and training will go so that in the future we can franchise the brand. We don’t want to stick to one location.

RANGEEN KITCHEN 28241 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, rangeenkitchen.com

56

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

56 FD Page1 Quotes.indd 56

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:11 PM

Orange Coast Magazine Presents

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD Jennifer Kim, Senior Partner at Signature Estate and Investment Advisors, on her favorite Hollywood haunts and moments THE HOLLYWOOD SIGN As an immigrant—I moved from Korea to Encino with my family when I was one—I would look at the Hollywood sign, which was and is to me an American icon kind of thing: Marilyn Monroe and the big stars of Hollywood, like when Madonna lived there in that big house underneath the sign in the ‘90s.

THE ROOSEVELT HOTEL My company had a Christmas Event there.

Very trendy, very nice ambience.

ROOFTOP ENTERTAINMENT A lot of restaurants and bars in Hollywood are on rooftops—right in the heart of the city, you can see everything.

CELEBRITIES AS CITIZENS What’s great about living near Hollywood is that celebrity connection. You don’t expect to run into them, until you do. When I was growing up in Encino, I used to drive past Michael Jackson’s ranch every morning on my way to school. Now I live in Hancock Park.

Paramount is right down the street, so I see them all the time. Plus, I live a few houses away from the British Consulate, and when Prince William and Kate came to the U.S., it was really neat getting a chance to meet them when they shook hands with all the neighbors.

Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC (SEIA) is an SEC-registered investment adviser; however, such registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training and no inference to the contrary should be made.

Securities offered through Signature Estate Securities, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through SEIA, LLC, 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067. Signature Estate Securities, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Signature Estate Securities, Inc. (California Insurance License #0B11807).

SEIA_OC1123.indd 35

9/28/23 5:50 PM

FOOD

DRINK

FOOD TRENDS

WELCOME TO THE FOLD The county is bursting with new soup dumpling destinations. by Benjamin Epstein

1086 Irvine Boulevard, Tustin, 657-600-8212 58

The round, purse-shaped soup dumplings known as xiao long bao are crimped at the top, traditionally with many folds. They’re generally one-bite affairs, but not at LONG’S NOODLE , a clean-lined sibling of Hunan spot Long’s Kitchen in Irvine. Long’s offers pork, spicy pork, and shrimp versions of XLB; all are huge and hugely soup-generous—“the bomb!” enthuses server Allen Wu. Other dumplings on the menu include pan-fried buns. Stretch your comfort zone with the aptly named Hunan Stinky Tofu. 45 Auto Center Drive, Lake Forest, 949-317-0272

SUNNY DUMPLING HOUSE is the most casual

of the new xiao long bao destinations—you order using the Toast app. But it’s also the most charming thanks to a cheery man holding a steamer basket of dumplings featured in decor including a mural depicting life in a Chinese village. A wall hanging shows how to make XLB; pork alone as well as shrimp and pork are offered here. A sign reads, “You are amazing!

Remember that!” The spicy wontons are amazing, too. Also available: frozen dumplings. 24602 Raymond

Way, Lake Forest, 949-446-8838

Chinese-Taiwanese MAMA LU’S DUMPLING HOUSE is

best known for two versions of its juicy and robustly flavorful xiao long bao: pork, and pork and crab roe. Other dumpling styles on the menu include pan-fried dumplings and steamed buns. One side of the spacious spot looks onto the kitchen, the other through large windows directly into the adjoining wholesale food supplier. The best seating by far is along the tastefully decorated back wall. The original Mama Lu’s locations are in the San Gabriel Valley. 17662

17th St., Tustin, 714-316-7712

P H OTO G R A P H BY B EN JA M I N EP S T EI N

Xiao long bao—aka soup dumplings—originated in Shanghai but went global after being introduced at the original Din Tai Fung in Taiwan. South Coast Plaza’s Din Tai Fung and Paradise Dynasty continue to spread the XLB love.

Contemporary SEVEN GRAMS offers a more casual but still upscale alternative.

Cool design touches include woven, curved hanging light fixtures. Three versions of ground-pork XLB include one that adds shrimp and another that’s spicy. The popular starter: pig-ear salad with chile oil dressing.

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

58 FD Food Trends.indd 58

9/28/23 5:14 PM

Full Page (SOP).indd 4

8/29/23 11:56 AM

Full Page (SOP).indd 9

9/27/23 11:14 AM

S P O N S ORE D CONT E NT

Winter

TRAVEL There's something magical about wintertime.

RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS

If you don’t have travel plans ready to go, here are a few destinations to inspire that perfect winter getaway 

November 2023 | OR AN G E COAST

WinterTravel_OC1123.indd 61

61

9/29/23 9:31 AM

TRAVEL

RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS New Year's Eve at Resorts World Las Vegas with lively, festive elegance.

Three notable hotel brands await. The Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World, Conrad Vegas at Resorts World and Crockford Las Vegas, LXR Hotels & Resorts offer dreamy rooms and suites with dazzling views of the Las Vegas Strip.

Every New Year's Eve plan needs quality dining options to set the mood.

Reserve a table in the sophisticated grace and elegance of Genting Palace. This culinary gem offers an exquisite menu of authentic Chinese cuisine, providing abundant seafood, noodle dishes, and exceptional dim sum.

Vegan delights are on the menu at Crossroads, the Strip’s only 100% plant-based fine dining restaurant. This one-of-a-kind experience is also the first plant-based restaurant in Las Vegas to have a full bar, with an inspired cocktail program.

For a modern steakhouse experience, Carversteak offers dry-aged American cuts and Japanese-certified wagyu steak—even the opportunity to select your steak knife of choice.

Sixty-six floors above the Strip, Allē Lounge on 66, hosts an upscale New Year's celebration with spectacular views of the evening's fireworks display, Round out your Las Vegas New Year's Eve with fantastic shows headlined by Country superstar Luke Bryan at Resorts World Theater and International and producer DJ Kaskade at Zouk Nightclub.

Resorts World Las Vegas 3000 South Las Vegas Boulevard (800) 445-8667 | rwlasvegas.com 62

ORANG E C OA S T | November 2023

WinterTravel_OC1123.indd 62

9/29/23 9:32 AM

RULE THE NEW YEAR.

Each countdown comes once in a lifetime. Spend it where each second is an invitation—to explore, to conquer, to

RULE THE WORLD.

Full Page (SOP).indd 11

3000 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89109 | rwlasvegas.com

9/27/23 11:14 AM

TRAVEL

TOMMY BAHAMA MIRAMONTE RESORT & SPA Tommy Bahama expands the renowned lifestyle brand’s world of relaxation with the launch of Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa. Following an extensive renovation and redesign that blends island living with desert luxury, the transformed resort is situated on 11 acres of olive trees and fragrant citrus groves in the heart of Indian Wells, California. With sweeping views of the Santa Rosa mountains, the 215 guestrooms and re-imagined villa suites are infused with a custom tropical aesthetic.

Distinguished for its exceptional hospitality, the elevated wellness retreat features the relaxing Spa Rosa, a destination spa with desertinspired treatments; Grapefruit Basil restaurant, serving brunch and dinner daily; a lively pool bar, Chiki Palm, plus three saltwater pools; a 24-hour fitness center, and Rosa Boutique, offering luxury goods from local brands and exclusive Tommy Bahama merchandise. The resort also features a spacious outdoor dining and bar patio situated amid the olive groves, with a signature fire wall and fire pits, bocce court, and plush seating for guests to relax and enjoy the stunning mountain landscape.

64

Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa is surrounded by world-class golfing opportunities, including the adjacent Indian Wells Golf Resort with Clive Clark’s Celebrity Course, the famed Players Course, and a putting course.

“Our first-ever resort has been 30 years in the making,” says Tommy Bahama CEO Doug Wood. “From welcoming you with our world-class hospitality to inspiring you with elevated details, we can’t wait to share this unique experience with you.”

The resort is set to debut Fall of 2023.

Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa 45000 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells (855) 820-0744 | tommybahamamiramonte.com

ORANG E C OA S T | November 2023

WinterTravel_OC1123.indd 64

9/29/23 9:33 AM

Island Living Meets Desert Luxury

For 30 years, Tommy Bahama has created a world where the sun always shines, the drinks are always cold, and easy, breezy styles are always in season.

Now, we’re bringing that daydream to life with the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa.

D E BUTI N G FALL 202 3 · I N D IAN WE LL S, CA TommyBahamaMiramonte.com

Full Page (SOP).indd 13

9/27/23 11:15 AM

SCENE

SEEN

1

2

FORK CHILDHOOD CANCER EVENT

2. Chef Cathy McKnight and her Team Green won first place in the overall chef judging panel.

3. Audra DiPadova Wilford, cofounder of MaxLove Project, introduces the celebrity judges: (from left) Jet and Ali Tila, Mike Pyle, Tembi Locke, and Cathy Thomas.

4. Chef Azmin Ghahreman led Team Hope 5. Chef Shachi Mehra led Team Love 66

4

5

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

66 Scene Seen.indd 66

9/28/23 5:17 PM

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F WO R K I N G WA R D R O B E S

1. Guests were greeted by an awning of lanterns.

P H OTO G R A P H S BY J E S S I C A B O DA S P H OTO G R A P H Y

3

More than 450 people gathered at Tanaka Farms for the Fork Childhood Cancer Challenge App Off Finale.

The team-based fundraiser is an evolution of MaxLove Project’s Farm to Fork Dinner that has raised more than $2.37 million since its inception in 2015. MaxLove Project supports families facing childhood cancer, rare diseases, and chronic hospitalizations.

SC E N E

1

SEEN

2

WORKING WARDROBES GALA

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F WO R K I N G WA R D R O B E S

P H OTO G R A P H S BY J E S S I C A B O DA S P H OTO G R A P H Y

3

Working Wardrobes, dedicated to helping people overcome barriers to gainful employment, raised $430,000 at its annual gala, “The Power of the Ripple Effect,” where 340 guests gathered to honor the people (including city officials) and organizations who support the group. This year’s event featured a record-breaking 24 sponsors and underwriters. Find out more about Working Wardrobes and perhaps some surprises on Page 16.

1. Working Wardobes CEO Bonni Pomush with Jason and Josie Benford, who was this year’s client honoree 2. Wearable art styled on a mannequin at the event 3. Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Ashley Vlcan, senior director of client services at Working Wardrobes 4. Richard Ward and Susan Dixon 5. Silent auction items and a mannequin wearing clothes from Working Wardrobes boutiques

4

5 November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

66 Scene Seen.indd 67

67

9/28/23 5:18 PM

SC E N E

SEEN

2

1

SHERMAN GARDENS PARTY Members, volunteers, and guests raised more than $80,000 for Sherman Library & Gardens at the Newport Beach Summer Garden Party. The sold-out fourth annual fundraiser took place throughout the gardens with proceeds benefiting The Sherman education programs. Guests had food from 608 Dahlia, played at a Bouquet Bar, participated in a raffle and silent auction, sported hats for a contest, and heard live music by Dave Aguiar & The Garden Party Players.

2. Models displayed clothes from South Coast Plaza’s Camilla Boutique.

3. Attendees relax and soak in the joy at the central garden.

4. Paula Steurer models her butterfly hat.

4 68

5

5. David Aguiar & The Garden Party Players entertained guests throughout the evening.

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

66 Scene Seen.indd 68

9/28/23 5:18 PM

P H OTO G R A P H S BY V I V I EN K I L L I L E A /G E T T Y I M AG E S FO R FA S H I O N I S L A N D

1. Best Garden Themed Hat contest winner Tiffany Hodges, South Coast Plaza’s Executive Director of Marketing Debra Gunn Downing, and Sherman Gardens Executive Director Scott LaFleur

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F S H ER M A N L I B R A RY & G A R D EN S

3

SC E N E

SEEN

2

1

STYLEWEEKOC

P H OTO G R A P H S BY V I V I EN K I L L I L E A /G E T T Y I M AG E S FO R FA S H I O N I S L A N D

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F S H ER M A N L I B R A RY & G A R D EN S

3

For Fashion Island’s 12th annual StyleWeekOC, WWD journalist Ryma Chikhoune spoke with Vanessa Hudgens in front of Neiman Marcus about the actress’s skincare line, engagement, and new business venture, Caliwater. The event was hosted by Paul Zahn and ended with audience members asking Hudgens questions about her career and life.

Following the “fashion fireside chat,” various retailers hosted in-store celebrations. At Vuori, customers were able to enjoy complimentary frozen bananas.

1. Vanessa Hudgens answered the audience’s questions about her skincare, filming movies such as “High School Musical,” and more.

2. WWD journalist Ryma Chikhoune interviewed Hudgens.

3. TV host Paul Zahn hosted the event and introduced Hudgens and Chikhoune to the crowd.

4. Attendees were able to enjoy complimentary Caliwater.

5. From left: Chikhoune, Zahn, and Hudgens in front of a photo opp

4

5 November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

66 Scene Seen.indd 69

69

9/28/23 5:18 PM

SC E N E

SEEN

2

1

A MILLION DREAMS CONCERT About 120 people attended A Million Dreams: Benefit Concert featuring cabaret artist Marleena Barber and students from Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The Sound of Music Chapter of The Guilds of the Center supported Studio D with a benefit performance by one their own, Marleena Barber, who shared her story of growing up legally blind from Albinism. The show ended with a finale featuring Studio D students.

3

1. Guilds chairwoman Susan Condrey with Studio D student Lizzy

4. Marleena Barber with Studio D students Sam and Emmett

4 70

5

5. Segerstrom Center for the Arts president Casey Reitz and supporter Mary Lyons

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

66 Scene Seen.indd 70

9/28/23 5:18 PM

P H OTO G R A P H S BY N I C H O L A S S H E T T ER LY

3. Guilds member Durrah Wagner, Segerstrom Center for the Arts chairwoman of the board Jane Yada, and friend Molly Pyott

P H OTO G R A P H S BY A N N C H AT I L LO N

2. Supporters raised more than $20,000 for Studio D students.

SC E N E

SEEN

2

1

MISSION PLASTICOS

3

Celebration of Global Friendships: Emerald City was the Oz-inspired soiree to benefit Mission Plasticos, a nonprofit that provides free reconstructive surgery to those who need it most throughout the world.

Gala chairs Dr. Karen Leong and Dr. Zena Gabriel joined more than 300 guests who were greeted by 8-foottall Emerald Robots and viewed Judy Garland’s Oscar she won in 1940 for her performance as Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz.”

1. Dancing robot

P H OTO G R A P H S BY N I C H O L A S S H E T T ER LY

P H OTO G R A P H S BY A N N C H AT I L LO N

2. Ben Crump and Al B. Sure!

3. Vince Spinnato, Lorna Luft, and Susan Williamson, executive directo of Mission Plasticos 4. Ballroom dancers Ivan Romanov and Lacey Bihari 5. Dr. Larry Nichter and Dr. Shankar Rai

4

5 November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

66 Scene Seen.indd 71

71

9/28/23 5:18 PM

THE LAW OFFICES OF

CALLAHAN & BLAINE Business Litigation Insurance Law Labor/Employment Defense Personal Injury

CallahanBlaine_OCM1123_v2.indd 2

10/2/23 4:32 PM

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

ESTABLISHED IN 1984, CALLAHAN & BLAINE IS CELEBRATING IT’S 4OTH ANNIVERARY IN 2024 AND CONSISTS OF 28 EXPERIENCED TRIAL ATTORNEYS CALIFORNIA’S PREMIER LITIGATION FIRM

Callahan & Blaine has achieved record breaking verdicts and settlements across a diverse range of litigation issues. “We don’t have a narrow focus in any one area of the law,” notes Managing Partner Ed Susolik. “Instead, our attorneys have expertise in a broad spectrum of complex litigation matters, including business litigation, insurance law, labor/ employment defense and catastrophic personal injury. We are also equally adept at both plaintiff and defense perspectives.”

RECORD BREAKING VERDICTS AND SETTLEMENTS

Callahan & Blaine has a broad range of historic results. Most notable is the firm’s $934 Million jury verdict in a complex business litigation case, which is the largest jury verdict in the history of Orange County. In addition, Callahan & Blaine obtained a $50 Million settlement which is certified by West Trial Digest as the largest personal injury settlement in United States history. Callahan & Blaine also has the largest insurance bad faith judgment in Orange County history ($58 Million), and the largest employment settlement ($38 Million). Most recently, the firm settled a copyright case against a major media company $15 Million.

A SPECIALTY OF WINNING

Each of Callahan & Blaine’s 28 senior attorneys is an experienced and accomplished litigator. Callahan & Blaine’s attorneys have expertise in a wide diversity of practice areas, including business litigation, intellectual property, trade secrets, real estate, insurance law, catastrophic personal injury and corporate and transactional. For example, Ed Susolik, the partner in charge of the firm’s insurance department, has handled over 2000 insurance disputes on behalf of businesses and individuals over the last 33 years, as well as over 1500 mediations. As explained by Susolik, “Callahan & Blaine specializes in the one thing that matters most to clients: winning.”

HONORS AND AWARDS

Callahan & Blaine’s attorneys have achieved many awards and honors over the years. For example, Susolik has been named to the “Top 100 Attorneys in Southern California” list

by Super Lawyers magazine from 2009 to 2023. Similarly, partners Michael Sachs, Brian McCormack, David Darnell and Javier Van Oordt have all achieved numerous judicial victories in recent years and are Callahan & Blaine’s top trial attorneys. For example, Brian McCormack was recently named Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association.

callahan-law.com

CallahanBlaine_OCM1123_v2.indd 3

AN & BL

A

E IN

CA

40 AH

N

NI

2024

Y

1984

A

3 Hutton Centre Drive, Suite 900 Santa Ana, CA 92707 P 714.241-4444 | F 714.241.4445

LL

VERSA

R

10/2/23 3:49 PM

New Seasons Sundays 8pm STREAM ON THE PBS APP

Full Page (SOP).indd 23

9/29/23 10:06 AM

FIRST PERSON

MY O.C.

In-Person Shopping Delights Celebrity sightings and fragrant blossoms can’t be replicated in the digital world. by Allene Symons

R

ecently I noticed a sign celebrating Nordstrom’s 45th year in Costa Mesa. This made me reflect on how much retail has changed since I was the manager of Rizzoli International Bookstore at South Coast Plaza in 1988. In some ways, it made me nostalgic.

It also reminded me of how versatile South Coast Plaza is, how it moves forward, providing a satisfying experience even in this digital age.

Rizzoli International Bookstore, with its emerald-green carpeting and bookshelves resembling glossy dark chocolate, is no longer in business in O.C., though its flagship still thrives on Broadway in Manhattan.

In the early ’90s, Orange County might not have been on the national radar, but South Coast Plaza had clout. My store was a draw for celebrity guest authors, and I had a frontrow seat to events such as Martha Stewart’s in-person celebration of a new edition of “Martha Stewart’s Quick Cook.” She drew such a throng that stanchions were set up outside for crowd control. Inside, I was by her side and busily opening her books to the front page for her to inscribe.

While I was occupied with management duties, my friend Pam was in line with four neighbors, all residents of the same cul-de-sac in Huntington Beach. When they reached the front of the line, Pam introduced the group as “the girls from the ’hood.” Pam told me that Martha laughed and said something like, “Do you girls always do everything together?” Actually, no, but this was a chance to make waiting in line a social event.

And taking a few moments to chat no doubt gave Martha a brief respite for her autographing hand.

M Y STO R E A L S O H O STE D A N event for Julia Child around this time.

When I learned that Julia would come to the store to sign the latest edition of “The Way to Cook,” I knew my New York publicity department would pull out all the stops. The plan was for me to take Julia out for dinner. A food writer from the Orange County Register wanted to be part of the dinner party, too. (Hot ticket. Not to be missed!)

The place for a meal had to be close and fast, because a line of fans would snake along the front of the store. Across from the store and a few doors down was Pronto, the kind of place where you might stop for a quick bite then continue your quest for gifts or clothes.

When Julia arrived at the store with her publisher’s representative, I was as smitten in her presence as

illustration by DANIEL CRESPO

75 DEPT My OC.indd 75

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

75

9/28/23 5:19 PM

IN THE EARLY ’90S, ORANGE COUNTY MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN ON THE NATIONAL RADAR, BUT SOUTH COAST PLAZA HAD CLOUT. Located in South Coast Plaza West next to Vans

Host Your Private Dinner, Networking Event, Happy Hour Full Bar - Beer, Wine, Cocktails Tray Passed Hors D’oeuvres Customizable Menus, Pre-Fixe Menu, Buffet Line tableaukitchenandbar.com | 714-872-8054 info@tableaukitchenandbar.com @TableauKitchenAndBar

PRIVATE PATIO 36 GUESTS

DINING HALL 75 DINNER GUESTS 100 STANDING/RECEPTION

any of the fans queueing up. The four of us—Julia, the publisher’s rep, the food writer, and I—traipsed from the store to the restaurant. As soon as we walked through the door, several of the diners audibly gasped and a chorus of whispers said, “It’s Julia Child!”

She smiled, acknowledging the wave of recognition.

We were seated and handed menus.

Julia preferred to eat light. “I’ll have the minestrone,” she said in her characteristically high-pitched voice. After the meal, the manager dared to ask the celebrity diner if she had enjoyed the dish, to which Julia said, “It was delicious!” There would be no dessert, though, because we had to return to the store, passing the head of the long line as fans called out, “Julia!”

That night she greatly impressed me with her gracious, personal touch, as well as her vitality—already well into her 80s and signing hundreds of copies.

THE PEAK MOMENTS OF hosting famous authors contrasted with everyday retail rhythms: managing inventory, hiring and training staff, planning and reworking window displays. Holiday season meant a bustling store, lines at checkout, miles of green and gold wrapping paper for books that were ideal gifts.

In a rather embarrassing incident, I found out South Coast Plaza has a structural superpower. I was on the phone with my supervisor in the New York office when an earthquake hit. I shrieked into the phone, “John, it’s the big one!” and hung up. He soon called back, chuckling; he knew, as I did not, that the mall is specially designed to absorb impact. We were gently rolling to what might have been a 2 on the Richter scale.

Other surprising moments included

FULL RESTAURANT EVENT BUY-OUTS

Tableau_0CM1023.indd 75 DEPT My OC_DP.indd1 76

8/22/23 4:29 PM

9/29/23 9:42 AM

FIRST PERSON the occasional stray songbird flying in.

We waited until customers were gone, then turned off all the interior lights.

We’d hear the bird chirp with joy then hightail it through the darkened space toward the light of the open door, like a moment of grace.

The most significant event for me at South Coast Plaza happened when I was taking an early dinner break, sitting alone, catching a quick sandwich at a cafe near the carousel. The place was nearly empty. A stranger sitting on a stool nearby initiated a conversation.

He happened to be carrying a new purchase, a book inside a Rizzoli bag. We chatted and exchanged business cards.

We were married five years later.

The bookstore is gone, but business appears to go with the flow. I’m glad to see how South Coast Plaza continues to thrive, appealing to customers’ desires. I recently learned that the concierge now provides customer assistance in more than 40 languages.

Across Bear Street, in the Home Wing, storefronts brim with possibilities from home decor to dining to technology at the Apple store. One of my favorite aspects is the Bridge of Gardens. Walking across its graceful span is like a quick vacation through manicured greenery and seasonal blooms. The bird’s-eye view adds another sensory pleasure, another reason for shopping in real life.

Many experiences can’t be replicated with virtual shopping: the satisfaction of hands-on browsing and incredible people-watching. And being able to try on the fashionable clothing options, of course.

The next generation appears to be rediscovering vinyl records and even books with pages that turn. In this digital era, touch is old, touch is new. It’s personal. And showing up “in person,” like back when my store hosted celebrity authors, is still a powerful draw.

Holiday season at South Coast Plaza stokes my retail nostalgia with a desire to be there early and often. I’ll stroll solo among fabulous decorations, then share the delight with a friend. I appreciate the effort taken for special window displays and search out perfect gifts, treating myself to the satisfaction of checking them off my list. I remain ever grateful for this magical destination.

MY O.C.

Hi-Time Wine Cellars Wine for every season, temperature and holiday.

Thanksgiving?

Quite bullish on Pinot Noir.

Come see us!

250 Ogle Street • Costa Mesa, CA • 949.650.8463 • hitimewine.net

Over 2000 Frames To Satisfy Every Personality On-Site Lab

LIFE’S TOO

SHORT

TO WEAR

BO RING

GL A S S E S

Incomparable Service Open Monday to Saturday from 10 to 6

Follow Us On Instagram

@EOLAGUNABEACH Open for Walk-In Business!

1294 S. Coast Highway, Suite C, Laguna Beach EuropeanOpticalinc.com | 949.494.6106

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T EuropeanOptical_OCM1123.indd 1

75 DEPT My OC_DP.indd 77

77

9/22/23 1:10 PM

9/29/23 9:42 AM

P H OTO G R A P H BY P E T ER M O R N I N G , C O U R T E S T Y O F M M S A

78

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 78

9/28/23 5:20 PM

Winter Escapes

FANCY A FEW DAYS ON THE SLOPES OR COZYING UP IN A MOUNTAIN CABIN? FESTIVALS IN THE DESERT OR TRUE LEISURE IN OUR PERFECT WEATHER TO RECOVER FROM HOLIDAY CHAOS? NO MATTER WHAT YOUR FAVORITE WINTER DESTINATION INVOLVES, WE’VE GOT OPTIONS THAT ARE AT MOST JUST A FEW HOURS FROM HOME. IT’S TIME TO START PLANNING YOUR GETAWAY THIS SEASON.

P H OTO G R A P H BY P E T ER M O R N I N G , C O U R T E S T Y O F M M S A

by A L A N G I B B O N S, A STG I K K H ATC H ATRYA N, a n d C H E L S E A R A I N E R I

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 79

79

9/28/23 5:20 PM

Mammoth

SITTING HIGH AND MIGHTY AT MORE THAN 11,000 FEET AND BOASTING 25 LIFTS AND 175 RUNS, PLUS 19 MILES OF CROSS-COUNTRY TRAILS, MAMMOTH IS A FAVORITE FOR SKIERS AND SNOWBOARDERS FROM ALL OVER THE NATION. ABOUT SIX HOURS FROM ORANGE COUNTY, THIS WONDERLAND BECKONS AGAIN THIS YEAR WITH PROMISES OF ANOTHER GOOD SEASON FOR SNOW. Originally opened in 1967

STAY as Sierra Nevada Resort,

Family-owned and a

EAT Mammoth favorite for

nearly 40 years, Roberto’s Cafe serves huge portions of delicious Mexican food to refuel after a day in the snow. Dive into enchiladas suisas filled with chicken and topped with verde sauce, served with Spanish rice and refried beans ($19.95), or the veggie fajita burrito featuring grilled vegetables with verde sauce, 80

cheese, sour cream, and guacamole ($16.95) to go with a pitcher of La Bamba margaritas ($46) for the table.

For bites in the village or a comfy place to wait out a storm, head to Mammoth Brewing Company and try a tasting flight of seven 2-ounce pours of seasonal or original beers to go with the waffle fries ($7) or sweet potato tots ($8) while you look out on the bustle below. For an upscale affair, try Skadi, a restaurant named for the Norse goddess of skiing and hunting. The intimate, art-laden spot has just 10 tables, so reservations are essential. European fare such as crepes with mushrooms and Jarlsberg cheese ($14) or panseared scallops with chive lemon beurre blanc ($48) will take you on a culinary adventure to the chef’s time in Switzerland with a nod to his Norwegian background.

The mountain is

PLAY obviously the main draw,

so get there early via free shuttles and the gondola.

Ski lessons, snow shoeing, and

Woolly’s Tube Park and Snow Play area are a few of the activities available at Mammoth Mountain, in addition to skiing and snowboarding that suits all levels.

Last year’s historic season—715 to 905 inches of snowfall and four consecutive months of more than 100 inches—will be tough to match, but forecasters are predicting another wet winter this year. Opening day is Nov. 10, and information on lift tickets, discounts, lessons, lodging, and plenty more is available at mammothmountain.com. For anyone not wanting to tackle the mountain, indulge in a treatment or two at Simply Massage Body Boutique, where you can get an Elevation Ease or Thai table massage ($135 for 60 minutes) among many other options. The village offers plenty of boutiques and spots to nibble or sip, such as Shelter Distilling, a distillery, brewery, and kitchen that welcomes families and adventurers taking a break from the slopes.

P H OTO G R A P H S BY R O S S S TO N E ; O U T B O U N D M A M M OT H ; P E T ER M O R N I N G , C O U R T E S Y O F M M S A

Outbound Mammoth began a renovation last year and rebranded this fall to unveil cozy and elegant rooms with luxurious touches. Fireplace suites include heated bathroom floors, a separate tub and shower, and kitchenette ($223 and up). Or try the new freestanding cabins, which feature private decks, fireplaces, and separate living spaces ($399 and up).

Black-and-white photos of former guests such as John Wayne, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra line the hallway leading to the lobby with a fireplace centerpiece. It’s a perfect place to hang out and read, play games, and chat with like-minded travelers. The spacious grounds leave room for meandering in the snow on-site, and resort guests receive discounts at Black Tie Ski Rentals. For ski-in, ski-out lodging, Juniper Springs Resort sits next to the Eagle Lodge and Eagle Express.

Relax and spread out with a full kitchen, balcony, and fireplace in rooms among the trees at 8,000 feet ($179 and up). Three hot tubs and a heated pool will soothe tired muscles, and the resort has a DVD library and equipment lockers.

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 80

9/28/23 5:21 PM

Winter Escapes

P H OTO G R A P H S BY R O S S S TO N E ; O U T B O U N D M A M M OT H ; P E T ER M O R N I N G , C O U R T E S Y O F M M S A

O UTBO U ND MAMM OTH

MAMM OTH MAIN LOD G E

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 81

81

9/28/23 5:21 PM

C LO C K W I S E F R O M O P P O S I T E PAG E : P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F N O O N LO D G E ; B I G B E A R M O U N TA I N ; P H I L I P M AC I A S

Winter Escapes

NOON LOD G E

Grab your skis or

PLAY snowboard and head to

Bear Mountain or Snow Summit for a full day, half day, or multiple days (pricing varies) of fun in the snow. You can also opt for a ticket that will get you access to both mountains on the same day, which means you’ll have 400 acres to play in. After a day on the trails, unwind with a cocktail at Whiskey Dave’s while listening to music or playing a game of pool at one of six tables. Every Friday and Saturday the bar has a DJ or live band in attendance and Thursdays and Sundays are reserved for karaoke. If you’re traveling with children, head to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo ($11 to $16) where guests can get a view of a variety of animals, including gray wolves, snow leopards, grizzly bears, and more. If you fall in love with one of the animals, you can “adopt” them, and 100 percent of your donation will go toward caring for the animal.

Children 2 and younger get in free and parking is free as well.

82

Book a room at Noon

STAY Lodge for respite after a

busy day of boarding or skiing. The boutique cabin rentals were upgraded from a 1950s retreat to reflect a more modern style.

Cabins vary in size from a studio ($156 and up) to a three-bedroom, two-bath option ($281 and up) with a two-night minimum. Head down to the lake or warm up at the communal fireplace. For a hotel with a view of Big Bear Lake, check in at Marina Riviera. Originally built in 1968, each room at this hotel ($149 and up) is expertly styled with vintage art, and guests can enjoy a hot tub, sauna, and fire pits.

Grab breakfast at the

EAT Grizzly Manor Cafe,

featuring pancakes that take up the entire plate ($9.25 to $15.25) as well as dishes such as the Fat Pat ($16.25) with three biscuits and gravy, ham, bacon, sausage, three eggs with cheese, and hash browns. This quaint restaurant is

popular among locals and tourists, so be sure to get there early to avoid a long wait. For a tropical-themed lunch option, immerse yourself in the Hawaiian decor and food at Tropicali. Here, you’ll find dishes with all-natural meat, including the Tikiyaki ($12.95) with smoked teriyaki barbecue chicken, and the Luau ($18.95), which has smoked pulled pork. For fish fans, opt for poke with the Kauai Bowl ($13.95) with wild-caught sashimi-grade ahi tuna. Try a glass of regional wine, beer, or hard cider before dinner at Barrel 33. Order a few appetizers to pair with your drink, including baked Brie with fig jam and crackers ($13), a charcuterie board ($27), or bacon-wrapped dates ($13). Oakside offers an upscale dining atmosphere to end your day. There are options for every palate, from truffle pizza ($20) and tater tots topped with Buffalostyle hot chicken ($14) to a 16-ounce bone-in ribeye steak ($48) or macadamia-crusted fillet of Alaskan halibut ($41).

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 82

9/28/23 5:21 PM

Big Bear

C LO C K W I S E F R O M O P P O S I T E PAG E : P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F N O O N LO D G E ; B I G B E A R M O U N TA I N ; P H I L I P M AC I A S

ROUGHLY 100 MILES FROM ORANGE COUNTY, BIG BEAR OFFERS A WINTER ESCAPE LIKE NO OTHER. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO ENJOY THE LOCAL FARE OR HIT THE SLOPES, THIS MOUNTAIN TOWN HAS EVERYTHING FOR A QUICK TRIP TO THE SNOW. GRAB SOME SNOWSHOES AND BUNDLE UP FOR THIS WINTER TREAT.

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 83

83

9/28/23 5:21 PM

Idyllwild

A Craftsman-style lodge

STAY with all the modern

touches of an upscale resort, The Grand Idyllwild Lodge offers 10 suites and a two-bedroom villa sitting on 2 acres ($325 and up). Included in your stay is a full breakfast on weekends (continental breakfast on weekdays) as well as access to the on-site gym, sauna, and library. Another excellent option is The Creekstone Inn. Originally constructed as a general store in 1947, the site was later reimagined as a hotel and was completely redesigned in 2020. Ten king rooms, most with a fireplace, and a two84

story cottage are decorated with clean lines, retro elements, and splashes of red ($140 and up).

Yes, Idyllwild residents

PLAY really did elect a dog for

their mayor. Because the unincorporated community has no official local government, Mayor Max III is more of a figurehead. But he takes his position seriously, often appearing in town to take photos with visitors, shake hands, and lick babies. Follow him on Instagram @mayormax1. Idyllwild is also known for its many hikes of varying difficulty. The Ernie Maxwell

Scenic Trail is a 4.6-mile out-andback jaunt that’s easy enough for most folks and provides beautiful vistas. Start at the bottom end, on Tahquitz View Drive, and you won’t need a parking pass. Bonus: If it’s been snowing recently, you’ll be walking through an enchanting winter scene. Women-owned Wild Idy is a far cry from the tacky gift shops found in just about any tourist town. The psychedelic store carries a colorful array of fun and edgy accessories, cards, vintage items, and home goods with a focus on American-made products. Be sure to pop into the cozy A-frame cabin

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F T H E G R A N D I DY L LW I L D LO D G E

THE G R AND IDYLLWILD LOD G E

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 84

9/28/23 5:21 PM

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F A N N A C O U C H ; EL B U EN C AC AO ; D O N S T R O U D ER

SITTING A MILE HIGH IN THE HEART OF THE SAN JACINTO MOUNTAINS, IDYLLWILD IS AN ALPINE PLAYGROUND FOR HIKERS, NATURE LOVERS, AND COUPLES LOOKING FOR A QUICK AND EASY WEEKEND ESCAPE. JUST 85 MILES FROM O.C., IT’S EARNED ITS REPUTATION AS AN ARTSY, QUIRKY COMMUNITY—JUST ASK THE MAYOR, A GOLDEN RETRIEVER.

Winter Escapes

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F A N N A C O U C H ; EL B U EN C AC AO ; D O N S T R O U D ER

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F T H E G R A N D I DY L LW I L D LO D G E

EL B U EN CACAO

“ HARM ONY” M ON U MENT

that’s home to Wildland, a boutique carrying eco-friendly beauty and wellness products as well as home decor items and women’s apparel in natural hues.

Start your day at Mama’s

EAT Egg House, where classic

morning fare is turned up a notch with unique offerings such as pandoro cake French toast ($13), filet mignon Benedict ($25), and two versions of chilaquiles ($18).

The lunch menu includes salads and sandwiches. For a quick bite— or just a cheeky photo—stop by the Dick’s Dogs stand. The menu

offers smash burgers, fries, deepfried MoonPies, and, of course, hot dogs. Standard Dicks include the basic Average Dick ($5, or $7 for a veggie dog). Specialty Dicks include the Alpine Dick, an IPAsoaked bratwurst on a mustardgrilled pretzel bun with sauerkraut, grilled onions and peppers, and spicy brown mustard ($13). Hip and romantic Cafe Aroma is a town fixture, serving Italian fare with a surprising number of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Sit under the twinkling lights enjoying live music while you savor penne ala vodka ($23), pan-fried rainbow

trout ($32), or Red Rock tofu with kimchi slaw ($23). Choose a wine from the well-curated list or try a cocktail, such as the Sunrise Campfire, a rye Old-Fashioned with sugar, bitters, and orangeinfused Scotch mist ($14). Satisfy your sweet tooth at El Buen Cacao, a chocolate shop owned by a local couple who are obsessed with making the highest-quality chocolate possible from ethically sourced, single-origin beans.

Beyond bars and truffles, the shop also sells hot chocolate and coffee drinks. Try the mocha ($8).

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 85

85

9/28/23 5:22 PM

Palos Verdes

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F T ER R A N E A R E S O R T

FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T IMAGINE LEAVING OUR AREA’S PERFECT WINTER WEATHER BUT STILL WANT TO ESCAPE ROUTINES AT HOME, TRY TERRANEA RESORT IN PALOS VERDES. JUST FAR ENOUGH AWAY (ABOUT AN HOUR’S DRIVE) TO REMOVE YOURSELF FROM WORRIES AND COMMITMENTS, IT FEELS LIKE VISITING ANOTHER PART OF THE WORLD. THIS IS VACATION AT ITS BEST, WITHOUT HAVING TO LEAVE THE PROPERTY, AS THE MANY AMENITIES WILL ENSURE YOU HAVE AS MUCH OR AS LITTLE TO DO AS YOU WISH, MAKING CERTAIN YOU’RE PAMPERED AND REJUVENATED.

86

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 86

9/28/23 5:22 PM

Winter Escapes

OC E AN PRELU DE

On the former site of sea life

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F T ER R A N E A R E S O R T

STAY park Marineland, Terranea

Resort opened in 2009 and saved more than 40 trees from the previous era. Fauna, flora, wildlife, and spectacular vistas blend with elegant structures and a gracious entryway around a water fountain to welcome you to 102 acres that could be mistaken for the French Riviera.

Most rooms and all the common spaces are situated to capture the ocean views and breezes. Chairs, benches, and lounges at all corners of the property invite you to sit and take it all in. Just be … with the water as your focus. To a person, the staff is warm, helpful, and eager to be of service but never overly solicitous.

Spacious rooms, suites, and villas offer separate soaking tubs and balconies that will serve as your new favorite leisure space ($520 and up).

Many spas in our state

PLAY provide ocean-based

treatments, but few live up to the Ocean Prelude experience.

Spend two hours in the signature suite indulging in a detoxifying seaweed wrap, a saltwater bath in a copper tub, and a full body massage,

all the while overlooking the Pacific and listening to the crashing waves just outside the open balcony doors ($500 for 120 minutes). What other resorts reserve their best real estate for the spa? Lounge at the spa pool or on the patio, and you might see dolphins just outside. For active visitors, the resort offers 28 fitness classes per week, including yoga, cycling, circuit training, and more.

Get on the water with kayaks, standup paddleboards, or tide-pooling options, or stay land-based with an art class or archery. The awardwinning Links at Terranea—a nine-hole, par-3 golf course—gives you a chance to keep up your skills before you lounge at one of the four saltwater pools. Hiking might be the best bet for setting your own course and discovering the ginger, succulents, and cacti as well as pelicans, lizards, rabbits, frogs, and dolphins on display.

The resort boasts seven

EAT dining options, including

Bashi, the lobby lounge, and poolside grill. The open-air seating and wraparound patio at Nelson’s puts you as close to the ocean as

BAS HI

possible. The casual eatery overlooks coves featured in the old TV series “Sea Hunt”—starring Lloyd Bridges as protagonist Mike Nelson. Outdoor picnic tables provide the chance to dine right next to the cliff’s edge, with wildflowers just across the fence.

Try the swordfish tacos with cilantro lime cream and pico de gallo ($24), and the Argonaut cocktail with gin, Cointreau, pomegranate, and lime ($18) while you delight in the sunset views. For a perfect, elegant dinner, try mar’sel—a play on the Spanish word for sea and French word for salt—rated a four-star restaurant

by Forbes Travel Guide. Herbs and produce grown on property are highlighted in the seasonal dishes, combined with impressive wine pairings and graceful, knowledgeable service. Start with asparagus soup with crème fraîche and caviar ($28), before diving into branzino with fennel, artichoke, roasted tomato, and saffron sauce ($50). Lose yourself in the serene setting and scrumptious food while you overlook the Pacific.

Be sure to save time and room for dessert, such as the Gianduja cheesecake with toasted hazelnut, fig, and cherry gelée ($18).

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 87

87

9/28/23 5:22 PM

TUCKED IN THE SAN BERNARDINO MOUNTAINS, KNOWN AS “THE ALPS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA,” LAKE ARROWHEAD OFFERS A RELAXING VACATION WITH BEAUTIFUL SCENERY. ABOUT A TWO-HOUR DRIVE AWAY, THIS QUAINT MOUNTAIN TOWN IS PERFECT FOR A FAMILY TRIP, A ROMANTIC ESCAPE, OR EVEN TO SPEND SOME TIME ALONE.

to Coach purses at Lake Arrowhead Village. You’ll find an assortment of merchants from whom to purchase the perfect trip keepsake. Check out Mr. G’s for Toys, Pendleton Woolen Mills, the Mountain Arts Gallery, Leroy’s Boardshop, and more.

Lake Arrowhead is also home to Snowdrift Tubing Park ($20 per person, $10 per vehicle)—Southern California’s largest and oldest snow tubing park, open Monday through 88

Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests can tube down beginner, intermediate, or advanced slopes at 6,500 feet above sea level. On Saturdays from 7:30 to 10 p.m., The Mountain Skies Astronomical Society Astronomy Village offers visitors the chance to catch a glimpse of the stars through a telescope and enjoy a 90-minute slide presentation as well as a Q&A session with an astronomer ($8 for ages 15 and younger, $12 per adult).

Be sure to call ahead to check if the

weather allows for these programs to take place.

Sitting at an elevation

STAY of 5,174 feet, the Lake

Arrowhead Resort and Spa ($155 and up) offers guests a breathtaking view of the lake, as well as a bar and restaurant, spa, pool, and access to a private dock and beach. The rooms are also pet friendly (an additional $150 fee), and the hotel provides fitness classes such as yoga, mat Pilates, and sound healing. Just a five-minute walk to

P H OTO G R A P H BY T. M .

Start your day by shopping

PLAY everything from fossils

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 88

9/28/23 5:23 PM

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F C A R T ER S AU N D ER S ; L A K E A R R OW H E A D R E S O R T A N D S PA ; T H E K I N G S L E Y H OT EL ; T H E M O U N TA I N S K I E S A S T R O N O M I C A L S O C I E T Y A S T R O N O M Y V I L L AG E

Lake Arrowhead

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F C A R T ER S AU N D ER S ; L A K E A R R OW H E A D R E S O R T A N D S PA ; T H E K I N G S L E Y H OT EL ; T H E M O U N TA I N S K I E S A S T R O N O M I C A L S O C I E T Y A S T R O N O M Y V I L L AG E

P H OTO G R A P H BY T. M .

Winter Escapes

L AKE ARROWHE AD RESORT AND S PA

THE KING S LE Y HOTEL

the Lake Arrowhead Village, The Kingsley Hotel offers a modern design in each room ($185 and up), some including a kitchenette and balcony or patio. Enjoy a weekend brunch with mimosas and head to the clubhouse for a game of poker.

Overlooking Lake

EAT Arrowhead, Belgian

Waffle Works offerings include the Brussels Belgian ($13.95 or $10.25 for a half portion) and a Monte Cristo-style stuffed with ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese. For

a sweeter option, try the Peanutty Belgian ($13.50)—a waffle ice cream sandwich with chocolate ice cream topped with peanut butter, peanuts, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream. Kick your feet up at The Lakefront Tap Room, which has everything for a relaxing day by the water. Choose from one of 32 beers on tap and pair it with beerbattered fish and chips ($18) or the Irish Banger ($14), a beer-poached brat with tater tots, sauteed sauerkraut, and cheese sauce. Come on a Friday or Saturday from 7 to

THE M O U NTAIN S KIES ASTRONOMICAL SOC IET Y ASTRONOMY VILL AG E

9 p.m. for live music. Hop in the car for a quick seven-minute drive from Lake Arrowhead Village to grab dinner at Puglia Italian Restaurant. The menu features organic, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, such as the bruschetta ($22), which is both organic and vegetarian. Try the classic spaghetti cacio e pepe ($29) or the more adventurous octopus ragu ($25). Be sure to look check out the specials for seasonal items like lobster ravioli ($44).

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 89

89

9/28/23 5:23 PM

DRIF T

90

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 90

C LO C K W I S E F R O M T H I S PAG E : P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F D R I F T; T R I O ; PA L M S P R I N G S A ER I A L T R A M WAY; S U S I K L EI M A N

Winter Escapes

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

9/28/23 5:23 PM

Palm Springs

BECAUSE OF ITS LOCATION IN THE SONORAN DESERT, THIS PALM TREE PARADISE OFFERS THE PERFECT EXPERIENCE IN WINTER WITH IDEAL WEATHER FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES OR MEANDERING THE TOWN. THERE’S ALSO A FILM FESTIVAL AND MODERNISM WEEK. Film aficionados from all

C LO C K W I S E F R O M T H I S PAG E : P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F D R I F T; T R I O ; PA L M S P R I N G S A ER I A L T R A M WAY; S U S I K L EI M A N

PLAY over gather for the Palm

TRIO

PALM S PRING S AERIAL TR AMWAY

Springs International Film Festival, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary from Jan. 4 through 15, 2024. Grab a pass ($375 and up), a ticket to the film awards ($500 and up), or an individual ticket (on sale in December) and rub elbows with cinema stars and cinephiles alike. Travel up to 8,516 feet on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ($30.95) to the mountains of Mount San Jacinto State Park for an overview of the city. The mountaintop features chances to sled, ski, snowshoe, and snow camp.

If it gets too cold, head indoors to the observation decks and natural history museum. Temperatures can get down to 30 degrees, so check the weather ahead of time. The annual Modernism Week is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the city’s architecture. From Feb. 15 to 25, 2024, the festival showcases the worldrenowned midcentury modern style prevalent in Palm Springs with more than 350 events. Many hotels offer Modernism Week specials.

Drift, which opened in

STAY March, is a new concept

in vacation lodging designed and built by Irvine-based TMC Group. “It’s a self-guided experience that gives you the feeling of being independent and on your own journey without being bothered by masses of people,” says general manager Paul Patiño.

“But there are still staff on the property if you need them, and it still has the hotel amenities that people want.” There’s a sparkling COLET TE NGUYEN AND BENJAMIN SVETKE Y CONTRIBUTED TO THIS REPORT

78 FEAT 2 Winter Travel.indd 91

Olympic-size pool lined by cushy chaise lounges and misted cabanas, complimentary yoga sessions in the cactus garden, and bicycles for guests. The real luxury here are the rooms, which might be the most spacious accommodations in town for the price ($200 to $1,600).

Most of the 39 units include wellappointed kitchens (stocked with more snacks and beverages than you’ll find in the average hotel mini-fridge), and designed with a cool minimalistic aesthetic— blond-wood fixtures and concrete floors covered with sisal rugs.

Margaritaville Resort ($179 and up) in the Uptown Design District combines midcentury modernism with a casual island feel. Take advantage of complimentary bike rentals to explore the city, or stay put and indulge in a treatment at St. Somewhere Spa, the largest resort spa in Palm Springs with 18 rooms and pet massages available, too.

For a satisfying brunch,

EAT don’t miss out on Cheeky’s

world-famous bacon flight ($8) with the seasonal scramble ($13).

The menu changes weekly, and fresh eggs come from property chickens.

In the center of town, try Farm for sweet and savory crepes ($10 to $18) in a delightful setting. Trio is a good option for dinner, where you might have Tony’s Rigatoni ($26) capped with the brownie à la mode ($12) for dessert. On the Drift property, Maleza serves Baja-inspired dishes such as chile relleno ($21), half chicken a las brasas ($36), and sweet potatoes with adobo shrimp, trumpet mushrooms, and miso butter ($23).

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

91

9/28/23 5:23 PM

92

ORANG E C OA S T | January 2023

92 FEAT Snapshot.indd 92

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

9/28/23 5:24 PM

S NAPS HOT

HARD HITTING Manuel N. Gómez is producer and cofounder of the nonprofit multimedia company behind “OC World,” the only public affairs broadcast based in Orange County.

by Astgik Khatchatryan If you’ve tuned into local PBS affiliate station KLCS on Monday evenings, you’ve likely come across “OC World.” The program, which began airing in late 2021, is the brainchild of Scott Hays, known for producing “Inside OC” with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Rick Reiff, and Manuel N. Gómez, who served as vice chancellor of student affairs at UC Irvine from 1995 to 2010.

“I worked in higher education for 40 years,” Gómez says. “After I retired, I was cruising along being free, and along comes Scott Hays with this idea in 2019.” Hays wanted to develop a new, innovative public affairs TV program. The pair established a nonprofit organization and received funding from friends and colleagues.

“What motivated me was the fact that Orange County may be the biggest news desert in the nation,” Gómez says. “We have 3 million people here, and we’re the sixthlargest county in the nation. But in terms of our media landscape, we live in the shadow of the massive media market in Los Angeles.

People don’t realize the value of local news and how it binds communities together until it’s not there. Corporate media and social media are often about what sells better, and it’s very polarizing.”

Gómez’s hope for “OC World” was that it would share compelling stories and provide viewers with news on critical issues they should be informed about, allowing them photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

92 FEAT Snapshot.indd 93

If we’re unable to get the truth, the facts, shared widely, then we really are in a difficult moment in our democracy.

to learn more about their communities and make better-informed decisions. Although the 2020 pandemic closures delayed production, the team pivoted to creating three 30-minute documentaries that year: on California’s vanishing beaches, the impact of COVID-19 on California farmworkers, and Alzheimer’s disease. All three ended up winning awards from various local institutions.

Since the program’s official launch in 2021, it has regularly reached 15.5 million viewers on KLCS and hundreds of thousands of viewers across its social media channels. “OC World” has covered local angles on topics ranging from police brutality and domestic violence to abortion legislation and the O.C. Power Authority. “I want our programs to be able to strengthen the bonds of community rather than to divide and weaken them as so much of our polarized corporate news tends to do.

We have a mantra that we respect all of our guests, and at the same time we have to be responsible to our viewers.”

“I’m not a journalist, but through 40 years as an educator, I’ve had a fierce commitment to the First Amendment and our democracy.

And that’s my motivation, to try to continue to provide the highest level of journalism that we can for Orange County viewers. One of the things we do is that we go really in depth. We don’t do one-minute interviews.

Our program is half an hour long. So we do deep dives. We allow individuals to tell their side of the story while still questioning them.

The regular local newspapers are being gobbled up. We think that this nonprofit local model may be the way forward.”

FIND OUT MORE!

ocworld.org

November 2023 | OR AN G E COAST

93

9/28/23 5:24 PM

TTRR OO .C.C IIVV ..

IIAA P H OTO G R A P H BY DA N I EL S A LC I U S

Test your local expertise and learn some fun facts about our home as you prepare for the holidays.

by Theresa Walker and Astgi k K hatchatrya n

photography by Scott Smeltzer

94

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 94

9/28/23 5:25 PM

P H OTO G R A P H BY DA N I EL S A LC I U S

IIAA

Match Match the the city city to to its its slogan slogan

1. ALISO VIE JO

a ) C it y o f K in dn e ss

2. BRE A

b) T h e H idden Jewel

3 . B U E N A PA R K

c) C it y o f Inn ovation

4. DA N A P O I NT

d) C en t e r o f th e S ou thlan d

5 . I RV I N E

e) A Ple asan t Plac e t o Li ve

6. TUSTIN

f) Live Life In spir e d

7. A N A H E I M

g) C it y o f Tr e e s

8. PLACENTIA

h ) Sp an ish V illage by th e S e a

9. S A N C L E M E N T E

i) Oil, O r an ge s, an d Opp or t un it y

1 0. V I L L A PA R K

j) H arb orin g th e G oo d Life November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 95

95

9/28/23 5:25 PM

FO U N TA I N P H OTO G R A P H BY S V EN P I P ER

In In which which city city will will you you find find these these specific specific a spots? spots?

c 96

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 96

9/28/23 5:26 PM

O.C. TRIVIA

FO U N TA I N P H OTO G R A P H BY S V EN P I P ER

b

d

e November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 97

97

9/28/23 5:26 PM

O.C. TRIVIA

7

Number of residential islands in Newport Beach. No, Fashion Island doesn’t count.

98

9

Number of designated golf cart crossings in Laguna Woods

19

How many pennies it took to buy any item off the 1965 menu at Taco Bell (choices were frijoles, tacos, chili burger, “tostados,” red or green burrito)

A ER I A L P H OTO G R A P H BY J EF F R E Y C L AY TO N ; PAU L F R A N K P H OTO G R A P H BY EM I LY J . DAV I S

O.C. by the numbers 68 275 881 1.64

Disneyland’s present age: birthdate July 17, 1955

Miles from Huntington Beach Pier in Surf City to the Fountains of Bellagio in Sin City

Population (at the time) of the first city in present-day Orange County to incorporate.

That was Anaheim, but back in 1876 it was still part of Los Angeles County.

BILLION Sum total of dollars then-treasurer Robert Citron had lost on risky investments by 1994 when Orange County became the largest municipality to go bankrupt

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 98

9/28/23 5:26 PM

PAU L F R A N K

Where Who Where do do they they Who was was rest rest in in peace? peace? born born where? where?

ANAHEIM

Anaheim Cemetery , musical theater actor born in Santa Ana, father of Bonnie Raitt

A ER I A L P H OTO G R A P H BY J EF F R E Y C L AY TO N ; PAU L F R A N K P H OTO G R A P H BY EM I LY J . DAV I S

Melrose Abbey Memorial Park , actress who played Morticia in the original “The Addams Family”

CORONA D EL M AR

Pacific View Mortuary & Memorial Park , actor who became Hollywood’s most iconic cowboy , Los Angeles Lakers star athlete, also an Oscar winner , journalist (Los Angeles Times, KMEX) and civil rights activist killed in 1970 during National Chicano Moratorium March to protest the Vietnam War

LAKE FO REST

El Toro Memorial Park , Olympic sprinter with multiple gold medals , actor from “WKRP in Cincinnati” and the lonely Maytag repairman , creator of the Eskimo Pie Ascension Cemetery , slain ex-wife of football star OJ Simpson, her accused killer

S A N TA A N A

Fairhaven Memorial Park , creator of Fender line of guitars, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee , longtime partner of Doors lead singer Jim Morrison

1. Austin Butler, actor who played Elvis Presley in 2022 biopic c) Orange a) Anaheim b) Huntington Beach d) San Clemente 2. Eldrick Tont Woods, aka Tiger Woods, professional golfer tied for most PGA tour wins (82) c) Brea a) Cypress b) Yorba Linda d) Seal Beach 3. Janet Evans, multiple gold-medal-winning Olympic swimmer c) Newport Beach a) Fullerton b) Mission Viejo d) Irvine 4. Paul Frank, artist, cartoonist, and designer who created the Julius the Monkey character a) Huntington Beach c) Seal Beach b) Sunset Beach d) Laguna Beach 5. Richard M. Nixon, 37th president of the United States a) Yorba Linda c) Laguna Beach b) San Clemente d) Orange 6. Lauren Conrad, reality TV star (“Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County”) and fashion designer a) Laguna Beach c) San Juan Capistrano b) Newport Beach d) Fullerton 7. Michelle Pfeiffer, actress whose films include “Scarface,” “The Fabulous Baker Boys,” “Batman Returns,” and “Murder on the Orient Express” a) Santa Ana c) Westminster b) Fountain Valley d) Costa Mesa 8. Will Ferrell, “Saturday Night Live” alum who starred in “Barbie,” “Elf,” “Anchorman,” and many more a) Irvine c) Placentia b) Villa Park d) Anaheim November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 99

99

9/28/23 5:27 PM

94 FEAT 2 OC Quiz.indd 100

10/3/23 3:47 PM

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

ANSWERS Page 95 1. f 2. i 3. d 4. j 5. c 6. g 7. a 8. e 9. h 10. b Pages 96 & 97 a. Laguna Beach b. San Clemente c. Mission Viejo d. Yorba Linda e. Santa Ana Page 99 John Raitt Carolyn Jones John Wayne Kobe Bryant Ruben Salazar Florence “Flo-Jo” Griffith-Joyner Gordon Jump Charles Kent Nelson Nicole Brown Simpson Clarence Leonidas “Leo” Fender Pamela Courson Morrison Richard Milhous Nixon 1. Anaheim 2. Cypress 3. Fullerton 4. Huntington Beach 5. Yorba Linda 6. Laguna Beach 7. Santa Ana 8. Irvine Page 100 1. FivePoint Amphitheatre 2. Downtown Disney 3. Balboa Island 4. Nixon Library 5. Discovery Cube 6. Lyon Air Museum 7. Doheny Beach 8. Packing House 9. Knott’s Berry Farm 10. Fable & Spirit

100

10. NEWPORT BE ACH: 9. BUEN A PAR K : 8. A N A HEIM: 7. DA N A POINT: 6. SA NTA A N A: 5. SA NTA A N A: 4. YOR BA LIN DA: 3. NEWPORT BE ACH: 2. A N A HEIM: 1. IRVINE:

Decipher Decipher the the emoji emoji location location O.C. TRIVIA

A HELPING HAND

S P O N S ORE D CONT E NT

PROFILING LOCAL NONPROFITS & CHARITIES

November 2023 | OR AN G E COAST

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 101

101

10/2/23 4:56 PM

UPCOMING EVENTS Fulfill Holiday Wish Lists and Spread Joy Share joy with a local family in need this holiday season by fulfilling wish lists via SparkJoy. Gifts go directly to the children of families participating in our financial wellness program, which empowers local families to build toward financial security and self-sufficiency.

For more information, contact Alex Garcia at AlexG@UnitedWayOC.org

The 21st Annual Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast

ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY Orange County United Way is committed to breaking barriers and improving lives for everyone who lives here. Through our key initiatives—United for Student Success SM , United for Financial SecuritySM , and United to End Homelessness SM —we are working to ensure local students succeed, struggling OC families gain financial security, and our unhoused neighbors find a place to call home. We also offer vital support via 2-1-1 Orange County (211OC), a key service that connects thousands of our most vulnerable residents with health and human service resources.

Last year, we served 1,010,443 OC residents through direct services and programs, our funded partners network, and essential community outreach.

We step up to actively address the critical issues facing our community and we genuinely care for one another. That’s The OC Way. To learn more or discover how you can help, visit UnitedWayOC.org.

Orange County United Way is a standalone, independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

VISION We envision an Orange County where every person receives a quality education, is financially stable, is healthy and thriving, and has a place to call home.

WHY DONATE When you contribute to Orange County United Way, your gift transforms lives right here in our community. UnitedWayOC.org/Donate

18012 Mitchell South | Irvine, CA 92614 949.660.7600 | UnitedWayOC.org 102

SAVE THE DATE May 16, 2024 Hyatt Regency Irvine 17900 Jamboree Road Irvine, CA 92614 Each year, the Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast raises vital funds to help local families transition from surviving to thriving, making a powerful difference in the lives of those struggling to make ends meet or facing housing instability. Don’t miss this exciting community-impact breakfast!

For more information, contact Gaby Mulder at GabyM@UnitedWayOC.org

Journey to 100 2024 marks Orange County United Way’s centennial. With gratitude for all you’ve helped us accomplish over the past 100 years, we begin our journey to the next 100 years of caring for our community. With dynamic plans to tackle homelessness, financial insecurity, and educational disparities, we forge forward. As we embark on this new century of understanding and addressing Orange County’s most critical issues, we invite you to join us!

Be on the lookout for exciting ways to get involved as we ramp up for our centennial celebration!

Learn more at: UnitedWayOC.org/journey-to-100

OR ANG E COA S T | November 2023

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 102

10/3/23 11:03 AM

GOODWILL OF ORANGE COUNTY Goodwill of Orange County is one of the leading workforce development organizations serving the OC community and the county’s largest nonprofit by revenue. First opened in 1924, Goodwill has since become a well-recognized community service provider and leading employer, with more than 1,100 employees, 25+ programs that help people develop career experience and skills, ShopGoodwill.com, the leading e-commerce thrift outlet serving the national Goodwill network, and more than 20 thrift stores throughout the county.

Goodwill is most often known for its thrift stores, but we’re most proud of the work we do to positively impact lives and connect people with opportunity. When you shop at our stores, hire Goodwill-trained employees or give to us financially, you fuel this important work.

MISSION We help people achieve their goals through a journey of personal support, work experience and career development.

UPCOMING EVENTS See The Good Tours December 5, 2023

Come see all that we do here at Goodwill of Orange County.

Join us on a behind-the-scenes tour of our mission and retail operation hosted

by President & CEO Nicole Suydam.

You can RSVP to join the next tour by sending an email to communitydevelopment@ocgoodwill.org

WHY DONATE Help connect people with opportunity.

410 North Fairview Street | Santa Ana, CA 92703 714.547.6308 ocgoodwill.org November 2023 | OR AN G E COAST

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 103

103

10/2/23 4:57 PM

UPCOMING EVENTS Mardi Gras Underwriters Party Wednesday, December 13, 2023 Sherman Library & Gardens, 608 Dahlia, Corona Del Mar Mardi Gras Gala 2024 Saturday, February 10, 2024 Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach Text 41444 the keyword MardiGras24 to register/donate

Inspirational Catholic Women Benefit Dinner - Heart of Mary Friday, May 10, 2024 Arboretum, Christ Cathedral Campus, Garden Grove Text 91999 the keyword ICW2024 to register/donate

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ORANGE COUNTY Since 1976, Catholic Charities has shined a light in Orange County by feeding the hungry, consoling the hurting, and caring for the most vulnerable. We provide help and create hope for the people of Orange County. One person and one family at a time, we do everything we can for those in need with what is given to us.

Our greatest community impact in 2023 was providing services to 680,694 individuals and families. Our quality professional social services transform hopelessness and despair into self-reliance and optimism through counseling, a peer-to-peer support line, housing relief, citizenship services, food distribution, and health and wellness services. Believing in the inherent dignity of every person, Catholic Charities is called to promote the voice of the marginalized, doing everything possible to uplift the people of Orange County.

MISSION The mission of Catholic Charities of Orange County is to provide service to people in need, promote their voice in society, and to call the church and all people to do the same.

WHY DONATE When you give to Catholic Charities of Orange County, you are helping us shine a light on those in our community who need it most. Your donation stays local and allows us to provide help, create hope, and serve all who come to our doors.

12141 South Lewis Street, 11th Floor, Garden Grove, CA 92840 714-347-9602 | ccoc.org 104

Total Individual/Households Served: 680,694

Our Help in Numbers Total People Served During Fiscal Year 2023 548,681 Individuals Received Food 83,927 Calls to CCOC for Services 24,564 Individuals Received Direct/Indirect Education from CalFresh Healthy Living 7,693 Individuals Received Counseling Services 3,641 Individuals Received Citizenship Services 12,022 Individuals Received Senior Citizens’ Support Services 166 Individuals Received CalFresh Food and Rental Assistance

OR ANG E COA S T | November 2023

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 104

10/3/23 3:38 PM

WHEN PEOPLE SURVIVE,

THEY CAN THRIVE

The task of ending poverty in Orange County is a big one and it almost seems too daunting to begin. Fortunately, Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAP OC) has been working for decades to address the root cause of poverty.

By advocating for systemic reform, social justice and racial equity, CAP OC has been able to compassionately serve millions of individuals, helping to stabilize, sustain, and empower vulnerable communities all over Orange County.

By addressing the immediate needs of every single person served, CAP OC assists people in crises by providing the solutions they need — covering basic needs like food and rental assistance, as well as homelessness prevention. After all, only when people survive, can they thrive.

Events: HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

November & December 2023 capoc.org/hope

BACKPACKS FOR SUCCESS

May 2024 Support Orange County youth in their learning journey!

A NIGHT OF HOPE

October 2024 Annual Fundraising Dinner Check capoc.org/events for updates

PLEASE VISIT CAPOC.ORG TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR WRAPAROUND SERVICES AND HOW YOU CAN DONATE.

11870 Monarch Street, Garden Grove, CA 92841 info@capoc.org | 714-897-6670 | capoc.org

CAP OC - Orange Coast - 10-Oct 01 2023_Full Page Ad_FINAL-.indd 1

9/25/23 2:16 PM

Full Page (SOP).indd 3

9/27/23 11:12 AM

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF LAGUNA BEACH For over 70 years, Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach (also serving Saddleback Valley) has helped young people to grow, thrive and reach their potential. The Club has gone from serving 250 youth in 1952 to over 3,000 children and families today.

We’re proud to offer after school, summer enrichment, and recreation programs for youth.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2024 Bob Margolis Golf Tournament August 5, 2024 Aliso Viejo Country Club

As a chartered member of Boys & Girls Club of America, we are required to meet the highest standards in terms of youth development approaches as well as business practices. As a Club, we have access to a variety of evidence-based programs and best practices that help young people develop healthy habits, social-emotional skills, and academic achievement.

MISSION To empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as healthy, caring and contributing members of society.

2024 Night at the Ranch September 20, 2024 The Ranch at Laguna Beach For more information contact Michelle Fortezzo at michellef@ bgclaguna.org or 949.715.7584.

1085 Laguna Canyon Road Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.494.2535 bgclagunabeach.org

WHY DONATE Your gift is an investment in the well-being of our local youth. When you donate, you give our youth brighter futures.

CASA YOUTH SHELTER In times of crisis, when the weight of the world seems too heavy, we provide a space of hope and healing. Through individualized case plans, and clinical services including individual, family, and group counseling, we empower our residents to embrace the strength within and foster coping skills that help them navigate future challenges. Expressive therapeutic services are more than just tools; they are bridges to resilience.

At Casa Youth Shelter, we’re not just mending broken spirits; we’re building brighter futures.

MISSION Casa Youth Shelter serves youth in crisis with shelter, counseling, and support services to empower them to get through their crisis.

WHY DONATE Your donation provides kids in crisis with a safe space, essential resources, and access to therapeutic services to overcome life’s challenges.

106

STOCKING THE HOUSE Help us support our residents with items that will help them through their crisis. Check out our website at casayouthshelter.org to learn how to donate high priority items that will make a significant impact on our kids’ lives today.

10911 Reagan Street, Los Alamitos, CA 90720 | 800.914.2272 | casayouthshelter.org

OR ANG E COA S T | November 2023

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 106

10/3/23 10:52 AM

UPCOMING EVENTS Fall Luncheon: Igniting Social Change October 6th, 2023 Lido House Newport Beach

HUMAN OPTIONS

Human Options breaks the cycle of relationship violence at every stage—from prevention, identification, education and intervention, we support each family member on their journey to healing. Our wraparound approach allows us to assess risks, evaluate options and educate people to prevent future harm. We empower survivors to transition to safety and independence through counseling, therapeutic services, and legal support. For over 40 years, we have helped transform more than 500,00 lives with the support of our community.

MISSION We are committed to a future in which every person and family in Orange County experiences safe, healthy relationships and lives free of fear.

5540 Trabuco Road Irvine, CA 92620 949.737.5242 humanoptions.org

We invite you to join us for our Fall Luncheon: Igniting Social Change.

This event will include keynote speaker, William Kellibrew IV, focusing on the particularly timely topic of trauma and resilience as it relates to relationship violence.

Serious Fun Gala May 18, 2024 | Balboa Bay Resort Join us on Saturday, May 18th at the Balboa Bay Resort for our Serious Fun 2024.

WHY DONATE Through YOUR generous partnership, we can continue to support victims and survivors and their families on their journey to healing from relationship violence.

ILLUMINATION FOUNDATION Illumination Foundation provides integrated housing and healthcare services to those experiencing homelessness. Illumination Foundation believes that every person has an intrinsic right to home, health, and dignity. We provide interim housing and emergency shelter, recuperative care/ medical respite, permanent supportive housing, and partnerships to provide onsite medical, dental, and behavioral health services. From street to home, we provide a full continuum of care, services, and resources to help individuals, families, seniors, and children on their journey to housing.

MISSION

Illumination Foundation’s mission is to disrupt the cycle of homelessness. We provide integrated housing and healthcare services for the most vulnerable individuals, families, and children in Southern California.

WHY DONATE

You can impact a life today. You can be part of the solution to disrupt the cycle of homelessness.

By supporting Illumination Foundation, you are investing in people’s lives, our communities, and the future.

2871 Pullman Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705 | 949-273-0555 | ifhomeless.org

UPCOMING EVENTS Fall/Winter 2023 Make a life-changing impact on those experiencing homelessness.

Give a gift of home and health this holiday season. Your gift today will directly help individuals and families in need.

Donate at ifhomeless.org.

Host a meal service or holiday donation drive for one of our shelters.

Contact volunteer@ifhomeless.org

Chef’s Table March 24, 2024 Join us for our annual Chef’s Table culinary gala where the best chefs cook tableside for guests. For sponsorship information or to purchase a table, go to ifhomeless.org/ct2024 or contact astamos@ifhomeless.org.

November 2023 | OR AN G E COAST

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 107

107

10/2/23 4:59 PM

ORANGEWOOD FOUNDATION

For over forty years, Orangewood Foundation has found innovative ways to create a brighter future for thousands of young people across Orange County.

The needs of Orangewood’s youth have shifted significantly throughout the years, but we have always kept pace. In response to new challenges, we have created ground-breaking new programs that lay the foundation for a stable and successful life, ranging across health and wellness; housing; life skills and employment; and education.

MISSION

To strive for equity for our youth by valuing and supporting the life they envision.

WHY DONATE

By making a gift, you’re becoming part of a community of innovators who care about Orange County’s youth.

UPCOMING EVENTS Orangewood Challenge and OrangewoodFEST Saturday, April 20, 2024 Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort Take the challenge for OC youth!

Teams of four will run, paddle, and tackle obstacles while raising funds to support the 2,000 youth served annually at Orangewood Foundation.

20th Annual 44 Women for Orangewood Scholarship Luncheon Thursday, May 30, 2024 Ritz Carlton Laguna Beach Join us for an inspiring luncheon that will help us provide scholarships and grants for our youth.

1575 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705 | 714.619.0200 | orangewoodfoundation.org

UPCOMING EVENTS “Bring The Rain” Boys Basketball Game November 17, 2023 Tinyurl.com/BringTheRain23 Declamations Contest March 1, 2023 Pacificaoc.org/TGC

MISSION At Pacifica, we teach our students to think and live well by providing a college-preparatory, liberal arts education for students from all backgrounds and neighborhoods.

PACIFICA CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

At Pacifica, thinking and living well is about making connections—both intellectual and relational. It provides students with a fuller understanding of what it means to be human and provides them the freedom to find their place in God’s created world.

A Pacifica education provides tangible benefits, like preparation for college, career, family, and service to the church and community. By approaching education as a joy-instilling, freedom-producing journey, we provide graduates a foundation for success in college, life, work, and faith.

108

WHY DONATE Donations make Pacifica’s mission possible and helps to keep tuition costs lower so that the Pacifica education is available to a wider range of families.

1499 Monrovia Avenue Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.887.2070 | pacificaoc.org

OR ANG E COA S T | November 2023

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 108

10/2/23 4:59 PM

Charitable Events

CALENDAR FALL/WINTER Host A Meal Service or Holiday Donation Drive

Illumination Foundation Contact volunteer@ifhomeless.org

Fulfill Holiday Wish Lists and Spread Joy

United Way OC Contact alexg@unitedwayoc.org

Hope for the Holidays

Community Action Partnership capoc.org/hope

YEAR ROUND Stocking The House Casa Youth Shelter casayouthshelter.org

Journey to 100

13 Mardi Gras Underwriters Party Catholic Charities of O.C. Sherman Gardens 608 Dahlia ccoc.org

JANUARY 2024 20 Inspiration Alz Gala

Alzheimer’s Association OC Balboa Bay Resort alz.org/oc/events/inspirationalzgala-2024

FEBRUARY 2024 10 Mardi Gras Gala

Catholic Charities of O.C. Bay Resort, Newport Beach ccoc.org

United Way OC unitedwayoc.org/journey-to-100

MARCH 2024

NOVEMBER 2023

1 Declamations Contest

17 “Bring The Rain” Boys Basketball Game

Pacifica Christian High School tinyurl.com/bringtherain23

DECEMBER 2023 1 Friends of CASA Holiday Luncheon Court Appointed Special Advocates Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort casaholidayluncheon.org

5 See The Good Tours

Goodwill of Orange County RSVP communitydevelopment@ ocgoodwill.org

Pacifica Christian High School pacificaoc.org/tgc

24 Chef’s Table

Illumination Foundation Email astamos@ifhomeless.org

APRIL 2024 20 Orangewood Challenge and OrangewoodFEST Orangewood Foundation orangewoodfoundation.org

MAY 2024 Backpacks for Success

Community Action Partnership capoc.org

10 Inspirational Catholic Women Benefit Dinner - Hearts of Mary

Arboretum, Christ Cathedral Campus, Garden Grove ccoc.org

16 Women’s Philantrhopy Fund Breakfast

United Way OC Hyatt Regency Irvine Contact gabym@unitedwayoc.org

18 Serious Fun Gala

Human Options Balboa Bay Resort humanoptions.org

30 44 Women for Orangewood Scholarship Luncheon Ritz Carlton Laguna Beach orangewoodfoundation.org

AUGUST 2024 5 Bob Margolis Golf Tournament

Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach Aliso Viejo Country Club bgclaguna.org

SEPTEMBER 2024 20 Night at the Ranch

Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach The Ranch at Laguna Beach bgclaguna.org

OCTOBER 2024 TBD A Night of Hope

Annual Fundraising Dinner capoc.org/events

November 2023 | OR AN G E COAST

HelpingHand_OCM1123.indd 109

109

10/2/23 5:00 PM

D ININ G G U ID E

DINING GUIDE OR AN G E CO U NT Y’S D EFINITIVE SO U RC E FOR RE STAU R ANT NEWS & MINI REVIEWS PRICING $$$ $50 and up $$ Less than $50 $ mostly under $25 Denotes Critic’s Choice Restaurant

ANAHEIM BARAN MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT & BAR Straight-up classic Persian cuisine is the draw at this fresh and stylish spot. Expect fragrant stews, elaborate rice dishes, and, of course, succulent kebabs and mountains of fluffy basmati rice. Don’t miss zeytoon parvardeh (stuffed olives) or a filet mignon kebab. Inviting patio and full bar. 5645 E. La Palma Ave., 714-340-0035. $$ NAPA ROSE Wine country thrives at the Disneyland Resort by way of this classy dinner house— no park admission required. Star chef Andrew Sutton leads his crew in an exhibition kitchen, turning out imaginative, highly seasonal New American fare. The room mixes rustic with refined, and the notably wine-savvy waitstaff, many qualified as sommeliers, deftly tailor unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$ POKINOMETRY Downtown Anaheim’s build-a-poke-bowl canteen is busy for three reasons: The food is delectable, cheap, and made your way. All the elements of delicious Hawaiian poke are assembled based on what you choose. Pick from cubed raw fish, white or brown rice, fresh onions, cucumber, avocado, mild to incendiary sauces, and vibrant garnishes of smelt roe, sesame seeds, nori, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Parking is problematic, so go off-hours, or pay for a spot in the Wells Fargo garage off West Broadway.

184 S. Harbor Blvd., 657-208-3488. No alcohol. $ 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. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130. Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. $$$ THE RANCH Oozing ambition, this upscale venue boasts a yowza saloon and a fine-dining room so serious about sourcing, it maintains a private farm in the nearby foothills. A whopping menu of decidedly seasonal American fare boasts both uptown and downhome dishes. Live entertainment and dancing keep the deluxe honkytonk hopping on weekends. 1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$ TRUE SEASONS ORGANIC KITCHEN This sleek storefront by Saifon Plewtong now adds wraps, bowls, smoothies, and desserts to a menu that once focused solely on hot pots. Still, the spotlight is on organic, GMO-free local produce and all-natural proteins. Do try the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice for a refresher like no other in these parts. 5675 E. La Palma Ave., 714-462-9223.

Beer and wine. $$ URBANA This colorful latecomer to the Anaheim Packing House brings vibrancy and a cool cantina attitude to a food hall that really needed a good taco and mezcal cocktail. Executive chef Ernie Alvarado’s short menu of savvy street food changes often, and you can’t go wrong with his daily specials. Cozy surroundings offer a choice of ambience—festive or sultry. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-502-0255. $$

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. $$ ROSINE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This neighborhood darling includes a 20-seat bar, complete with a full liquor license and a clutch of specialty cocktails. Fragrant rotisserie chickens are always popular, though the menu now offers winebraised lamb shanks, and Pacific ono skewers. A sizable roster of gluten-free choices anchors a spinoff menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

BREA BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN One of North County’s best venues boasts advantages that are fairly rare in these parts: thoughtfully executed Italian cuisine, a cozy setting, and appealing prices. This sibling of neighbor Cha Cha’s does winning arancini, steamed mussels, house-made pappardelle, and a fine branzino. A notable happy hour features steep discounts on terrific appetizers and signature Italian cocktails. 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000. $$ CHA CHA’S LATIN 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. $$ JULEP CAST IRON KITCHEN + DRINK This project from The Toast Group, five units heavy on brunch fare, is the first to also promote dinner service. Unabashedly rich American food has a Southern twang—proper fried green tomatoes, sweet corn fritters, and terrific fried chicken in many modes. Worthy cocktails are myriad. Service is enthusiastic, and the setting is faintly elevated with Southern gothic touches. 3325 E. Imperial Highway, Brea, 714-983–7364 MACALLANS PUBLIC HOUSE Chef Andrew Wang’s modern but comforting pub cooking is just one upgrade that’s helping this young venue finally catch on in North County.

Top-notch whiskey offerings and a killer Irish breakfast on weekends also entice. Don’t miss the ridiculously authentic Irish coffee, or stop in for the very robust happy hour. The upscale vibe is a welcome switch from the usual timeworn pub conditions. 330 W. Birch St., 714-529-1224. $$ 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

PH OTO G R APH BY EM ILY J. DAVI S

N OV E M B E R 2023

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.

110

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

110 Dining Guide v2.indd 110

9/28/23 5:28 PM

D ININ G G U ID E 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

PH OTO G R APH BY EM ILY J. DAVI S

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, 949-220-7229. Lunch only. $$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurantgazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ 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. $$$ SIDEDOOR Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes comeas-you-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$

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 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. Woodgrilled options range from a mighty fine burger to a grand aged ribeye for two. The tidy bar boasts a

Special desserts at Baran Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar

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. $$$ DESCANSO Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$ HANUMAN THAI EATERY This nifty spinoff of the original a few miles north boasts easier access but the same cheerful hospitality and appealing mix of old and new Thai fare.

Must-haves include grilled lamb chops, creamytart tom yum soup, and rich kha soi noodles. There are top-tier curries and a creative beer list, too.

Long weekend waits are inevitable unless you go early or late. 1835 Newport Blvd., 714-519-0775. Dinner only. $$ OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with competing options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night. Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world over, and he regularly leads culinary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$

VERDANT Sleek Orange County Museum of Art taps the same creative team behind nearby Populaire for its airy top-floor eatery. The plant-centric menu is a taut dozen or so dishes that skew to daytime meals of salads, toasts, and vegetable plates, all ultraseasonal. Think tagines over basmati rice, roasted sweet potato, and fresh fruit over olive oil cake.

Don’t skip craft cocktails from the glossy white bar that perfectly suit signature potato chips with creamy onion dip you won’t believe is vegan. Closed Monday. 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 949470-2298, $$

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 Mahe site, supporting the community with ultra-fresh fare, delicious dishes, and his five-star service. A tight focus on top-shelf cocktails lures groups who want to gather for toasting. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$ RAYA Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this poshbut-relaxed dining room conceived by celeb chef Richard Sandoval. After the eye-popping bluff-top ocean view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience. But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

110 Dining Guide v2.indd 111

111

9/28/23 5:28 PM

D ININ G G U ID E

N U EVO IN NEWPORT | PALMILL A

FOUNTAIN VALLEY INI RISTORANTE Booked solid in its early months, Ini weaves Japanese flavors and ingredients into classic Italian fare.

Think branzino with yuzu beurre blanc, udon carbonara, or chicken curry pizza. The latest from juggernaut Kei Concepts (Vox Kitchen, Kin Craft Ramen, Nep Café), Ini shines with novel but approachable dishes, consistently executed. Polished cocktails and stylish desserts. 16129 Brookhurst St., 714-2774046. $$$

112

white beans. Pollo en mole blanco—with bone-in chicken breast, chile pepitas, tomatillo rice, and white mole sauce—is a specialty. A bevy of traditional tacos and enchiladas with short rib or chicken machaca feature house-made tortillas hot off the comal; street-taco choices include fried halibut, spiny lobster, or filet mignon. There are vegan selections, too. Finish with Mayan cinnamon churros served with three sauces—and request a side of horchata ice cream. There are lots of margaritas, including a Casamigos Cadillac, but the two pages of “innovative cocktails”— we’re loving the next-level pineapple-mezcal Negroni—are just that. The late-afternoon and late-night bar scenes are draws all their own. 3110 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949-220-1290, palmillarestaurant.com—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

THE RECESS ROOM This city’s first gastropub exists because five childhood pals needed a local haunt for gathering after their weekly basketball game. Food and booze enjoy equal amounts of love at this 148-seat venue— a cleverly retooled former Coco’s. Expect smallbatch, offbeat brews and ace craft cocktails, plus lots of rich, shareable noshes. Think tender octopus with toasted quinoa for contrast, luscious pork cheeks confit, and lime-yuzu panna cotta. 18380 Brookhurst St., 714-377-0398. $$$

FULLERTON THE CELLAR Downtown Fullerton’s abiding choice for classy, oldschool French dining is a North County staple for romantic meals, thanks to an underground room that’s ornate, yet cozy. Expect swanky choices such as chateaubriand, and a fine dark chocolate souffle.

305 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-525-5682. $$$ 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. Cre-

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F PA L M I L L A

T

he eye-catching, curvy, white facade at Palmilla Cocina y Tequila opens onto an equally stylish dining room, one where pendant light fixtures fashioned from straw or pottery hang from a woven jute ceiling, and a yucca tree is the focal point. Palmilla, new on the Balboa Peninsula, is from the team behind South Bay siblings Palmilla and Michelin-recognized Esperanza. The design suggests Cabo San Lucas, the menu, more broadly, Sonora and Baja. Start with the ceviche trio with plantain chips or go straight to the pineapple camarones version. White prawns also star in a standout entree, prawns Pacifico con salsa, prepared with garlic, crushed chile, and tequila and served with killer refried

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

110 Dining Guide v2.indd 112

9/28/23 5:28 PM

D ININ G G U ID E ator and executive chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in finedining kitchens. Khan Saab has the best-stocked alcohol-free bar in O.C. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$

HUNTINGTON BEACH 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. $$$$ KAI Pacific City’s stylish top-floor newbie is an ode to Japanese sushi, whisky, and Asian fusion fare by executive chef Tin Nguyen of its sibling shop, Shorebird. Look for share plates that include watermelon salad, sticky ribs, robata, and indulgent wagyu steaks. Ambitious sushi program. Terrific cocktails

by Topher Bray served until late night. 21010 Pacific Coast Highway, 657-259-0010. $$ LSXO Step back in time to colonial Vietnam at this vestpocket 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 sandwiches 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 in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

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. $$ BISTANGO A longtime airport-area mainstay, Bistango has remained surprisingly contemporary,

with creative dishes such as sweet, soulful garlic soup, and black truffle ravioli. It’s also a classy venue for live music, and its rotating art collection adds to the air of urban sophistication. 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949-752-5222. $$$ LITTLE SISTER This Irvine Spectrum spot is an XXL bistro to older sister shop LSXO. Chef-partner Tim Vuong musters a team that pulls off a bigger menu, bigger digs, and a bigger profile with ease. Find proven faves—the overstuffed Viet crepe and the Shaky Shaky Beef— plus new lunch porridges and bánh mìs streaming out of the kitchen to a bustling dining room. Vintage rap tracks and a crackerjack bar keep the vibe lively. 896 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-800-8798. $$$ 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,

P H OTO G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F PA L M I L L A

Flexible Private Offices - Over 20 Locations In Orange County!

Ultimate Flexibility Up to 2 Months Free!*

Premier Workspaces has been a trusted partner for over 21 years - specializing in flexible solutions for individuals and teams in some of the best buildings in Orange County.

Call Us Today! 1.877.697.8483 www.premierworkspaces.com/ocm

*Offer valid at select locations. Limited to new clients who sign a 12 month office agreement.

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

110 Dining Guide v2_DP.indd 113

113

9/29/23 9:44 AM

D ININ G G U ID E 949-608-7272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. Anaheim location at 1040 W. Katella Ave., 714-294-0362 and Huntington Beach location at 7821 Edinger Ave., 714-316-0151. $$ 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 BEACH

114

Buffalo caulif lower at Finney’s Crafthouse NICK’S Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grownups 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 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, 949-376-8595. See San Clemente location. $$ OLIVER’S OSTERIA Wedged into an oddball canyon retail center, this tidy shop is chef-owner Erik De Marchi’s all-out defense of faithful fare inspired by his home turf of Italy’s Emilia-Romana region. Pastas are wondrous, but do wait to hear the daily specials that can include juicy lamb chops or crepes (crespelle) with porcini mushrooms in truffleperfumed béchamel. Tight quarters make dining noisy when the room is full. And Oliver? He’s De Marchi’s first child, born on opening day. 853 Laguna Canyon Road, 949-715-0261. $$$ SAPPHIRE CELLAR 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 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9888. $$$

SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Anaheim Ducks star Teemu Selanne cements his brand with this polished and popular steak joint on a venerated stretch of Coast Highway. 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 peoplewatching. 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 welcoming 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. On-point service from a gracious crew. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-4468772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL 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,

PH OTO G R APH BY EM ILY J. DAVI S

BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate teamed up 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. $$$ 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 Euroinflected dishes (try the lamb lollipops, the Alpine melt, the chile-lime swordfish). Musicians dig the highbrow sound system, and the room generates a superlative groove. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949376-1000. $$$ DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN With its gorgeous seaside panorama, this place perfectly illustrates the food-versus-view gamble. Prudent choices on chef Rainer Schwarz’s seasonal menu include whole fried fish, an unusual entree pairing of butcher steak-pork belly, and tarts by pastry chef Rene Baez. Brunch items and craft drinks also are good bets. 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, 949-715-7700. $$ FINNEY’S CRAFTHOUSE “Craft Beer Spoken Here” proclaims the red neon sign at the latest inhabitant of downtown’s iconic White House venue. Sixty brews, craft cocktails, and elevated pub grub from a scratch kitchen lure locals to this upbeat tavern with superior service and fair prices. Righteous burgers, deluxe sandwiches, and oblong pizzas are duly popular. Do try the cheesesteak egg rolls. A pooch-friendly sidewalk patio, kids menu, and generous midweek happy hour keep afternoons busy. 340 S. Coast Highway, 949484-8140 $$

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

110 Dining Guide v2.indd 114

9/28/23 5:28 PM

D ININ G G U ID E supported by sophisticated cocktails from an imposing marble bar. Vast patio with dazzling views. A piccolo store sells pantry goods and gelatos. 32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220. $$$ CALO KITCHEN + TEQUILA Chic and breezy as a Baja resort, this sprawling spot has its act together, luring local crowds for upscale Mexican classics. An unending flow of worthy margaritas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well-executed shrimp ceviche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchiladas. Huge portions, sharp service, and modern digs seal the deal. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949409-7380. $$$ HENDRIX Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hendrix swaggers into Laguna Niguel with a place that promises something for everyone. 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 and Brussels sprouts with marcona almonds. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$

e Care

9/3/03

LA HABRA Page 2

11:35 AM

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 olives and a fried egg.

Green corn tamales (available seasonally) have

achieved cult status. This location oozes a family vibe. 840 E. Whittier Blvd., 562-691-4618. See Anaheim Hills and Corona del Mar locations. $

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 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. $$$

NEWPORT BEACH BAYSIDE Classy Bayside remains a go-to choice on many fronts. Nightly happy hour stars a winning smallplates menu that keeps the bar hopping. Rotat-

ing artwork keeps the dining room ever fresh for relaxed meals of debonair American fare. Long favored by the coastal set for jazzy brunches, insiders stop in Friday night for a legendary jam session in the bar. Prix fixe menus are a strength here. 900 Bayside Drive, 949-721-1222. $$$ BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse cannoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite. Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. Sublime chefs’ dinners are intimate, unforgettable affairs. 1200 Bison Ave., 949-520-7191. $$$ 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. $$ 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

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

HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH US!

REHEARSAL DINNER, BUSINESS MEETING, HOLIDAY PARTY, ENGAGEMENT PARTY, NETWORKING HAPPY HOUR, ANY EVENT!

Lot & Hill Clean-ups for Fire Regulation

PH OTO G R APH BY EM ILY J. DAVI S

Liability Insurance • Workers Comp. Insurance WE ACCEPT VISA, M/C & AMERICAN EXPRESS

Facsimile: 714-776-0821 website: State License 765846

www.superiortreecare.net

714-502-0226 November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T

110 Dining Guide v2_DP.indd 115

115

9/29/23 9:44 AM

D ININ G G U ID E

116

Wagyu steak at Gema 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. $$$

NEWPORT 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. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus get tweaked seasonally.

The adjacent Bootlegger’s Bar boasts umpteen firstrate cocktails plus dreamy bar bites. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$ MARCHÉ MODERNE The finest French bistro south of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal 2018 digs 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, 714434-7900. $$$ ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST This shopping center offshoot of the popular original Zov’s in Tustin is a go-to patio cafe that lures locals with creative Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin location. $$$

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. $$ PUBLIC LEGACY This spot is a maverick indie in a sea of corporate eateries, serving elevated scratch pub grub and top-shelf cocktails. Brunch is served daily, but after

PH OTO G R APH BY EM ILY J. DAVI S

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. $$$ MOULIN Moulin is the passion project of Paris native Laurent Vrignaud. After 30 years in the action-sports industry, he lives his longtime dream of serving bistro classics, selling oven-fresh baguettes and grab-and-go dishes, and peddling wines and other French pantry items. The unfussy bistro and patio evoke Paris at every turn. It’s O.C.’s gathering spot for expats and Francophiles. 1000 Bristol St. North, 949-474-0920. Locations in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$ OLEA CELLAR CRAFT COOK Eastside’s dapper dinner house is from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood, Sapphire, 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, 949-287-6807. 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 location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ STARFISH Wildly popular from Day 1, this petite new sibling to the Laguna Beach flagship remains true to the panAsian street food concept of rolls, noodles, fusion sliders, and deluxe seafood backed by crafty cocktails. Daily Opium Hour from 3 to 6 p.m. is a signature value play. Polished service and free parking.

191 Riverside Ave., Newport Beach, 949-570-3990.

See second location in Laguna Beach. $$ 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, bento boxes at lunch, and sakes. 327 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-3622. $$$ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas and housemade churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949-720-0980. See Irvine location. $$ 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

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

110 Dining Guide v2.indd 116

9/28/23 5:28 PM

D ININ G G U ID E 2 p.m., hearty shareables, burgers, and steaks rule.

Look for a terrific frittata, sublime sunflower hummus, and a mighty Reuben. The 30-stool bar traverses two settings—one sunny and the other a cozy den. 1547 W. Katella Ave., 657-598-2450. $$

SAN CLEMENTE GEMA

Executive chef Juan Pablo Cruz and owner Sarah Goldman have created a 2023 new top tier for Mexican dining at this hip dinner house featuring Cruz’s menu of deeply considered seasonal dishes that marry ingredients from Mexico with local organic produce and proteins. Look for hazelnut-crusted chile relleno with huitlacoche cheese, tamarind adobo wagyu steak, and sublime mole. Craft cocktails, Baja wines, and a peerless mezcal library also shine. 110 South El Camino Real, 714-640-9371. $$ NICK’S On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with a modern twist. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened fish sandwich. And there’s a sidewalk patio with fireplace. Sociable service is notably polished. 213 Avenida del Mar, 949-4812200. See Laguna Beach location. $$ SOUTH OF NICK’S From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at BEST NEW RESTAURANT

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 CAPISTRANO BLOOM

This charming spot packs its 90-seat house with followers of its siblings (Ironwood, Olea, Sapphire, Vine) and fans of wine country eats

by Jared Cook, craft cocktails by Gabe Whorely, and the inimitable hospitality of owner Russ Bendel.

Winners include fried squash blossoms, bourbon-spiked pâté, herb-brined pork porterhouse, and Idaho trout over sprightly succotash. The artfully retrofitted 1923 brick digs are just steps from Mission San Juan Capistrano. 31760 Old Mission Road, 949-503-2654. $$$

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. $$$

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. $$ EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe fromMexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde. Also impressive: crisp tacos ahogado in hot broth. We loved the guajillo salsasoaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch. Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. The vintage site with soaring ceilings seats 115 and boasts modern artwork.

Expect kind, unflappable service. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$

ARTS PREVIEW ISSUE

of O.C.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY PH OTO G R APH BY EM ILY J. DAVI S

And Save 72% Off the Cover Price

ONLY $1.66 PER ISSUE

 PAC IFIC SYMPHONY ’S

NEW POPS COND U CTOR

 LOCAL LIVE M U S IC VE N U E S  FE STIVALS AND CONC E RTS  THE BARC L AY’S HAWAIIAN S E RIE S  A PE RFECT JAZZ C LU B  PLU S , THE COMING S EASON

AT A GL ANC E

H E A LT H Y H I B I S C U S S H O W S U P O N M E N U S A R O U N D O . C .

FA L L FA S H I O N : A P R E V I E W O F T H E S E A S O N ’ S B E S T

GET 1 YEAR OF THE BEST OF OC DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR EVERY MONTH FOR $19.95

AT EVERY AGE Local plant-forward dishes to try Stylish pieces for your workout Favorite hikes in O.C. Top doctors of 2023 and more

The coast is clear! Revisit the country’s most relaxing road.

Call 626-659-8004 01 Cover.indd 1

8/3/23 4:06 PM

01 Cover.indd 1

6/30/23 2:04 PM

*Savings based on regular newsstand price of $5.95. Please allow 6 – 8 weeks for delivery.

This offer is valid for NEW orders only. Questions? Email us at orangecoastmagazine@emailcustomerservice.com

November 2023 | O R A N G E C O A S T HouseSubscribeHP_OCM2023.indd 1

110 Dining Guide v2_DP.indd 117

117

9/26/23 9:11 PM

9/29/23 9:44 AM

D ININ G G U ID E

SILVERADO CANYON XACALLI KITCHEN Scenic Silverado Canyon’s latest Mexican venue has fine-dining ambitions via executive chef Vincent Espinoza, formerly of AnQi, Chaak, and Gabbi’s. Local farms and gardens enhance the highly seasonal fare and cocktails here. Don’t miss the Jalisco-style lamb birria, the Oaxacan queso fundido, or signature desserts. The low-slung building behind a colossal oak tree was retooled with materials reclaimed from a 1904 lemon packing house. 28222 Silverado Canyon Road, 657-314-9042. Dinner only. $$$

SOUTH COAST METRO 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, but try Sunday brunch for a more kickback experience. 3333 Bristol St., 714-5575679. $$$ DIN TAI FUNG Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, handpleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bristol St., 714-549-3388. $$ HAMAMORI Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza penthouse 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. $$$ KNIFE PLEAT South Coast Plaza’s rarefied penthouse shines ever brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelin-acclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to see stars again with this radiant backdrop for Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hospitality. Look for butter-poached lobster, forest mushroom melange, and the signature legumes de saison when nature allows. Save room for Germain Biotteau’s inimitable desserts. Friday and Saturday night tasting menus are utterly indulgent. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. Closed Sunday and Monday. $$$ PARADISE DYNASTY 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 $$

118

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

110 Dining Guide v2.indd 118

Striped sea bass with Thai Brussels sprouts at Pacific Catch POPULAIRE Showing loads of promise, this modern 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. 3333 Bristol St., 714-760-4555. $$$ TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR South Coast Plaza’s welcoming all-day cafe and bakery defies easy categorization. Chef and co-owner John Park’s canny brunch and dinner dishes are at once familiar and novel. Think souffle-light cream brûlée French toast with seasonal fruit, grilled avocado on kale Caesar salad, and crab cake arrabbiata with house-made spaghetti. Desserts are dazzlers, as are grab-and-go croissants. Captivating cocktails are discounted during midweek happy hour. 3333 Bear St., 714872-8054. $$

TERRACE BY MIX MIX Savvy chef-owner Ross Pangilinan leverages the success of his original Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in downtown Santa Ana with this minimalist aerie overlooking the stylish Bridge of Gardens skywalk at South Coast Plaza. This venue lacks a full bar, but it has wine and beer and is open daily with ample free parking. Fans love the three-course lunch for $20, 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. $$ VACA Top chef Amar Santana and ace partner Ahmed Labbate return to Costa Mesa with an exuberant, singular ode to Spain. Santana sidesteps the “eat local” crusade, offering peerless jamon Iberico, lush bomba rice for paellas, and verdant Mahon gin for cocktails. Dozens of authentic tapas beg to be tried, but do consider excellent wood-grilled steaks, dryaged in-house. Dinner tables at prime times are scarce, so plan, wait, or aim for lunch. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:29 PM

D ININ G G U ID E

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. 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 drinks or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list.

215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$ PACIFIC CATCH Tustin Market Place is home to O.C.’s first N E W “West Coast fish house” by a San Franciscobased chain of 14 venues. Serving a staggering array of novel and classic seafood dishes, all with Pacific Rim accents, the choices span sushi rolls to Baja tacos to Korean barbecue skirt steak. Fresh-catch meals star fish sustainably sourced from Panama to Alaska, buoyed by creative sides and scratch sauces. Snappy service and vibrant cocktails also

lure. Midweek happy hour is well-attended. 3040 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714-613-0300. $$ ROMA D’ ITALIA Old Town’s durable red-sauce joint keeps fans coming for family-recipe meatballs, pizzas, parmigianas, and pastas. Ace pizzas are unsung heroes for group dining. Casual digs include the red-checked tablecloths and shakers of crushed pepper. Good for groups and speedy work lunches. 611 El Camino Real, 714-544-0273. $ 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. 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 busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855. See Newport Coast location. $$$

YORBA LINDA THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN + BAR This 2019 arrival at last finds its rhythm, enticing locals with a kitchen more independent of the Rancho Santa Margarita mothership. High-flavor modern eats include braised beef tacos with house-made tortillas, burrata with seasonal frills, and soulful French onion soup. Weekend brunch swaps in egg dishes and deluxe sandwiches. Like the original, the beverage program is strokes above par, featuring small-batch spirits, rotating brews, and a tight list of worthy wines. Midweek happy hours and nightly deals add extra value.

4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2594. $$ BLUE AGAVE Southwestern favorites, from tamales to carnitas, and mole enchiladas in generous portions, keep regulars coming back. The buzzy cantina is awash in modern margaritas that rival any top Mexican bar.

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. $$

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023 5:00 PM– 9:00 PM

110 Dining Guide v2_DP.indd 119

9/29/23 9:45 AM

U NDER THE SEA Nancy Caruso of Garden Grove is a marine biologist and founder of Get Inspired, a nonprofit educating the community on the importance of caring for the ocean. by Lauren Cavalieri You successfully led a major effort to restore our local kelp forests. What projects are you working on now?

I’m restoring green abalone along the coast of Orange County. I’m also working on restoring white sea bass and Pismo clams. I figured out no one in the world had ever grown (Pismo clams) before. My team and I were the first to get a successful spawn, and we were able to repeat that again this summer.

How would you describe your work in general?

I grow animals and plants in water to restore them in the ocean. But it’s not just 120

O R A N G E C O A S T | November 2023

120 Person of Interest.indd 120

me; it’s a community effort. I’ve taught over 12,000 students in 52 different schools over the years how to grow those species I mentioned in their classrooms.

Is there anything you wish would change about how people view the ocean?

Unfortunately, our culture has created a foundation of take. In two minutes, you can go online and fill out an application to get a fishing license. There’s no pathway for someone who wants to do restoration.

It’s largely because the ocean is invisible to most people; if you take a forest down, we can see that it’s gone, but nobody sees

when there’s a kelp forest gone.

How can people get involved?

I have lots of volunteer opportunities. I have people who come out and dive with me or rake the beaches to help look for the clams. If you haven’t (already), put your face in the water in Orange County to see our beautiful kelp. They were gone for 25 years, and we have them now. So please go out and enjoy them.

FIND OUT MORE!

getinspiredinc.org

Vol. 49 Issue 11 ORANGE COAST (ISSN 02790483 and USPS 360-630) and ORANGECOAST.COM are published monthly by Orange Coast Magazine LLC, 2102 Business Center Drive, Suite 125, Irvine, CA 92612. 949-862-1133. Copyright 2023 by Orange Coast Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photographs must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Periodical U.S. postage paid at Los Angeles, CA and additional entry offices. Subscription rates in continental U.S. $19.95 for 12 months. Canada, one year only $81; international, one year only $111. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orange Coast, PO Box 5037, Boone, IA 50950. If the Postal Service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

PE RSO N O F INTE RE ST

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

9/28/23 5:29 PM

I T ’S T HE SE ASON F OR GOOD T IMES

Full Page (SOP).indd 22

9/29/23 10:06 AM

THE SEMINOLE PLACE PROJECT

Joseph RodRigues

When architect and interior designer Joseph Rodrigues began his transition of the galley kitchen in this home in Laguna Niguel, he chose PIRCH for the plumbing and appliances. Read about this and other projects done by PIRCH customers by scanning the code or visiting us at pirch.com/projects-showcase.

KITCHEN. BATH. OUTDOOR. www.pirch.com COSTA MESA | MISSION VIEJO | LAGUNA DESIGN CENTER SOLANA BEACH | RANCHO MIRAGE | GLENDALE | LA JOLLA

Full Page (SOP).indd 10

9/27/23 11:14 AM