Orange Coast Magazine - April 2024

“ PRELUDE TO A KISS, THE MUSICAL ”

PREMIERES AT SCR

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19788 Cornell Ln

Yorba Linda

Nestled in The Enclave at Yorba Linda’s prestigious gated community, this dream estate expresses luxury living at its finest, boasting captivating features such as a grand entrance with an elegant staircase-lined foyer, an open concept floorplan with voluminous ceilings, and expansive lanai doors leading out to a resort-style backyard with breathtaking views of the city and a detached pool house.

MAKE ROOM FOR ALL OF YOU

APRIL

“When we were discussing what we were going to create, ‘craveable’ was a buzzword that we’d always come back to for what we wanted on the menu.”

JEREMY WEBB FOUNDER, WEBB’S GRAINWORKS

72

BEST NEW RESTAURANTS

Orange County’s dining scene is fired up on all fronts. You’ve waited all year for this list—use it to book the ho est tables in town.

BY GRETCHEN KURZ

88

92

A SECOND KISS SCR presents “Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical” 36 years a er it premiered there as a play.

BY LIZ GOLDNER

SIMPLY MARVELOUS

Chapman alum Kyana F. Davidson is a director of production and development at Marvel Studios.

BY CHELSEA RAINERI

Benny and Mary’s Photograph by Scott Smeltzer

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

Bar Louie

Casa Del Sol

J Zhou

Lucille’s BBQ

Luna Rossa

Prego Restaurant

Prime Hot Pot

RA Sushi

RAKKAN Ramen

Red Robin

The Winery Restaurant

The Yellow Spices

ZIP Korean BBQ

WEB EXTRAS

Domenico Maurici, chef-owner of Il Farro in Newport Beach, joins Cathy Thomas to prepare a classic farro dish that showcases tomato sauce, bacon, shallots, and garlic. orangecoast.com/ cathythomas

All

Check out “The Zest” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Host Chelsea Raineri interviews guests, including Revolve’s chief brand o icer, Raissa Gerona, about their lives and careers.

Michelle

pril has arrived in O.C. And with April showers comes new leadership. I am thrilled to unite with veteran journalist Tina Borgatta as she returns to the Orange Coast brand as editor-in-chief. In her career, Tina has covered everything from hard news to luxury lifestyle, and held leadership positions in both large and small publishing companies. She spent 10 years working in newsrooms, including at the Los Angeles Times, before joining Orange Coast magazine (for the first time) as editor-in-chief in 2001. Since then, Tina has held leadership positions with magazines such as Modern Luxury (where I spent 23 years!), and Pelican Hill and Sauté magazines. And she helped develop and grow a custom-publishing concept for the luxury real estate industry. “In my years working as a journalist and editor, I have fostered a deep appreciation for the power of collaboration,” Tina says. “Engaging with teams from all areas of an organization is critical for working toward a common goal. I’m absolutely thrilled to be back at Orange Coast magazine and joining such a talented team!” Well, Tina, we are happy to have you as we celebrate our 50th anniversary year.

I do want to thank our former EIC, Alan Gibbons, for her dedication and service to Orange Coast for the past nine years, and we wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavors.

We are also proud to present our Best New Restaurants issue. Orange County has grown into a destination for top-notch dining and nightlife. You’ll want to feast your eyes on our cover story. The images alone will make your mouth water. (Think upscale Mexican plates from Caló, pan-Asian delights from Starfish, and the sumptuous offerings pictured here from the fun and whimsical Benny and Mary’s.) And just wait till you see which eatery earned our top honor!

So sit back and enjoy, and let’s hope the April showers are behind us. Let’s go out and support all of these fantastic eateries while we’re at it.

CHRISTOPHER GIALANELLA President/Publisher

Orange Coast magazine

cgialanella@orangecoast.com

Instagram: @christophergia @orangecoastmag

Orange Coast publisher Chris Gialanella and Editor-in-Chief Tina Borgatta

Benny and Mary’s

BENNY AND MARY’S PHOTOGRAPH BY SCOTT SMELTZER

There is always an air of excitement when preparing for our Best New Restaurants issue. It’s one of my favorites to work on. Throughout the year, I’ll stow away ideas or make little notes and sketches about colors and layouts. I also make note of which restaurants get three stars from Gretchen Kurz, our dining critic, in her Main Course reviews—I figure those will make a return in April.

We have two additions to the seven restaurants on our list that have been profiled as Main Courses—Benny and Mary’s and Oliver’s Trattoria. As our readers have come to expect from Gretchen, this year’s selection highlights some of the most delicious dining in Orange County. Start making your reservations now.

Great food is always worth celebrating, and be sure to celebrate with us at our Best New Restaurants party. Go to orangecoast.com/ upcoming-events for details.

Also for April, we’re profiling “Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical” at South Coast Repertory, 36 years after the original “Prelude to a Kiss” premiered in Orange County.

Lastly, I would like to thank Alan Gibbons for all the work she poured into Orange Coast magazine as editor-in-chief for the last nine years. To borrow an often used phrase by our former publisher, Chris Schulz, “It was a distinct honor” to work with you.

ANDREW HART DESIGN DIRECTOR

9 restaurants chosen for this year’s Best New Restaurants. It was going to be 10, but one restaurant changed the menu after the feature was written.

BY THE NUMBERS: BEST NEW RESTAURANTS 2024

57 dishes were photographed for the feature, plus a few cocktails.

440 images were turned in by our photographer to be edited for the feature.

18 photographs out of the 440 appear in this issue.

41 miles from our most northern restaurant on the list, Julep Cast Iron Kitchen in Brea, to our most southern restaurant, Rare Society in San Celemente

IS THERE AN ORANGE COAST CURSE?

The restaurant industry is notoriously volatile. But when we started noticing that quite a few of our picks for Restaurant of the Year would encounter issues or close soon after gracing our covers, we began to wonder: Was it us? The facts were these:

Charlie Palmer

Costa Mesa

2012 top pick

Shuttered in 2015.

Little Sparrow

Santa Ana

2014 Restaurant of the Year

Chef Eric Samaniego left the next year, and the restaurant closed in 2016.

Pueblo

Costa Mesa

2015 Restaurant of the Year

Chef Michael Campbell left within the year, but Pueblo held on until 2020.

Pascal

San Juan Capistrano

2016 Restaurant of the Year Closed in 2019.

Mix Mix Kitchen Bar

Santa Ana

2017 Restaurant of the Year Shuttered in 2022. (Luckily chef/owner Ross Pangilinan is still thriving!)

Journeyman’s Food + Drink

Fullerton

2019 Restaurant of the Year

Closed by the end of that same year.

Fortunately, it seems that even if there were a curse, the past few years have shown that it’s very much behind us. We hope.

MY FIRST DAY

ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN

Senior editor and intern coordinator

Started in 2011

People are shocked when I tell them that this has been (aside from a brief and ill-fated stint as a camp counselor) the only job I’ve ever had. When I walked into the Orange Coast o ices as an eager undergraduate intern on my first day, I never would have imagined that I’d still be here 13 years later. Of course, there have been many changes since then. My role has evolved over the years from intern to editorial and art assistant to associate editor and finally to my current position. I’ve survived a handful of shakeups and ownership changes. Colleagues, many of whom became more like family, have come and gone. But the thing that’s kept me here is my love of this magazine and the postive impact is has on our community.

2012

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF

Tina Borgatta

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Andrew Hart

SENIOR EDITOR Astgik Khatchatryan

STYLE & HOME EDITOR

Chelsea Raineri

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Scott Smeltzer

DINING CRITIC

Gretchen Kurz

EVENTS EDITOR

Robin Jones

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Kevin Barr, Jai’La Du Rousseau, Grace Whitaker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Elisabeth Brown, Benjamin Epstein, Liz Goldner, Jessica Kim, Grace Murray

ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE LLC

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COFOUNDER

Mark Geragos

COFOUNDER

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COO AND HEAD OF EVENTS

Shelby J. Russell srussell@orangecoast.com

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Christopher Gialanella cgialanella@orangecoast.com

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COMMUNITY LIAISON EMERITUS

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CITY OF HOPE ORANGE COUNTY TREATS FIRST PATIENT IN LEADING-EDGE CLINICAL TRIAL FOR BREAST CANCER

City of Hope Orange County is leading breakthrough research evaluating a promising new treatment for patients with late-stage, HER2-positive breast cancer.

A key potential benefit for patients is that the investigational drug may be offered without additional chemotherapy.

HER2-positive breast cancers have higherthan-normal levels of a protein called HER2. The protein is known to help breast cancer cells multiply quickly, leading to tumors.

The first patient in the Phase 2 clinical trial was treated by Irene M. Kang, M.D., medical director, women’s health medical oncology, City of Hope Orange County. A renowned breast cancer clinician and researcher, Kang practices at City of Hope Orange County

Lennar Foundation Cancer Center, the most advanced cancer center in Orange County.

“Treating the first patient in this trial is a significant achievement in our efforts to find new options for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer that continues to progress after treatment,” said Kang, a principal investigator on the study. “Despite the numerous therapies approved for treating advanced or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, many patients ultimately have disease progression and new options for treating these individuals are urgently needed.”

The drug — an immune-stimulating antibody called BDC-001 — could eventually become the first FDA-approved treatment of its kind.

Through the study, the City of Hope Orange

County team is finding answers to key questions, including how well the drug reduces the size of tumors and whether it can spare patients the side effects of chemotherapy they would normally receive.

“Early data shows this drug is well-tolerated, with minimal toxicities,” Kang said.

The clinical trial is one of more than 800 clinical trials offered at City of Hope each year.

Renowned for a legacy of pioneering research and cancer breakthroughs, City of Hope discoveries impact 100 million people around the world each year.

When it comes to cancer, it’s Hope First. 888.333.HOPE (4673) | CityofHope.org/OC

LENNAR FOUNDATION CANCER CENTER, IRVINE

Irene M. Kang, M.D., Medical Director, Women’s Health Medical Oncology, City of Hope Orange County

Where the only focus is curing cancer

FIRST HOPE

Cancer is never easy, but it starts with Hope. As a leader in exceeding national survival rates, CityofHope is all-in on ending cancer. Together, our 600 cancer physicians, 1,000 researchers and scientists, and our 800 annual cancer-focused clinical trials are what drive us forward. First in prevention. First in treatment. First in survival. When it comes to cancer, it’s Hope First.

SEASIDE STUNNERS

Local fun and flavors in Seal Beach. by

Jessica Kim

 GOOD TO KNOW

The fish served at Seal Beach Fish Company are linecaught from smallboat fishermen on the West Coast.

SEAL BEACH FISH COMPANY

Featuring quality, sustainable, locally caught fish, Seal Beach Fish Company serves food with a sea-to-table mentality. The menu boasts a variety of seafood, from a sashimi plate appetizer (market price) and fish taco main ($25) to fresh poke and ceviche nachos ($28). The restaurant’s interior is clean and simple with wooden accents and a large flat-screen TV hanging above the bar for game nights. 1025 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, 562-431-5222

LALC RESTAURANT & BAR

Formerly known as The Backyard, lalc opened in 2022 with a barbecue-focused menu. Each dish is carefully crafted with locally sourced ingredients, many of them organic. Barbecue platter options include pulled pork, chicken, tri-tip, and brisket, paired with a house-made sauce and a variety of sides. The restaurant also serves burgers, sandwiches, seafood, desserts, and a curated list of beers and wines. 136 MAIN ST., 562-357-4031

OCEAN STAINED GLASS

Located in Seal Beach Center, the studio established in 1998 offers both professional stained-glass services and classes. For those looking to maintain or install stained glass, the store provides supplies, custom windows, and repair services. Experienced students and beginners alike can learn to work with stained glass, glass mosaic, and fused glass. 1085 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, 562-596 - 6806

HUMBLEMAKER COFFEE

On a bustling corner sits a coffeehouse serving premium organic beverages and products in an expansive interior that’s reminiscent of a lighthouse. With a name inspired by “quiet craftsmanship,” Humblemaker Coffee brews every cup with health-conscious, quality ingredients, including a choice of wellness benefits like multivitamin, immunity, or antioxidant. The company also donates 10 percent of its annual profits to enriching the lives of children with autism.

350 MAIN ST., 562-250 -4111

A Cure for Fungus Nails?

Before/After Photos

Concierge

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 -

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!

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO VIEW BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS:

WWW.NAILCUR.COM

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How Dr. Ivar Roth is eliminating fungus with

RESORTS WORLD DINING

Embrace the epitome of modern luxury in dining at Resorts World Las Vegas, situated on the illustrious Las Vegas Strip.

Our selection of dining venues is a testament to our dedication to culinary brilliance, offering a mosaic of global flavors that cater to the sophisticated palate. Genting Palace redefines elegance with its authentic Chinese cuisine, presenting a lavish array of seafood, rice, noodle dishes, and exquisite dim sum in a setting of unparalleled glamour. For those seeking vibrancy alongside culinary innovation, Fuhu is the quintessence of energy, serving up delectable steaks, sushi, and an eclectic mix of specialty cocktails and sake in an ambiance that pulses with life, complete with stylish indoor and alfresco seating.

Journey with us to Crossroads, a trailblazer in plant-based fine dining on the Strip, where avant-garde dishes showcase the zenith of plant-based flavors, promising a dining experience that’s as enlightening as it is luxurious. Completing the culinary odyssey, ¡VIVA!—helmed by the acclaimed "Chef of the Year" by Esquire magazine, Chef Ray Garcia—offers a deep dive into the heart of regional Mexican cuisine, with dishes that weave seasonal ingredients into a tapestry of flavors emblematic of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. RESORTS WORLD

SURPRISINGLY VEGAN.

There’s a chance you won’t believe us. Even after your meal. We serve imaginative, inspired plant-based cuisine, so decadent you’ll just have to take our word for it.

CARMEL - BY - THE - SEA

The 1-square-mile village beckons year-round. by

Elisabeth Brown

Part of the charm of Carmelby-the-Sea, where the homes have no street addresses and the residents know one another well, lies in the fact that it doesn’t seem to change much. Even if it’s been decades since you’ve visited, take comfort in knowing it’s just as precious, historic, and lovely as it was the last time you were there. A restored historic gem of a hotel plus a Michelinstar restaurant provide alluring new reasons to make a trip up the coast to this perfect spot.

MILES OF SMILES

Take off on the ultimate scenic tour for a day on 17-Mile Drive. You’ll pass scenic stops every few minutes, including the famous Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay, and Pebble Beach Golf Links. On the other side of the road, marvel at huge estates passed down through generations and the grand residences that appear fit for royalty. Because it’s a private community, there’s an entrance fee ($11.75 per car), which you can pay at any of the five gates.

RELAXING READ

For book lovers and genuinely

curious souls, The Pilgrim’s Way Books is a must-stop. Established in 1969, it’s the last bookstore in Carmel and elevates the shopping experience to an intimate and relaxing one. Friendly staff help find the perfect gift or novel to dive into while you’re on vacation, and the Secret Garden behind the store radiates wellness and restoration. Follow the path to a yurt containing plants, gemstones, wind chimes, and more. The two businesses make a perfect pairing

The Lone Cypress PHOTOGRAPH BY HENDRICK CORNELISSEN

for an afternoon of entering a more serene state of mind.

RESTORED AND READY

After a $15 million renovation, La Playa Hotel ($279 and up) dazzles with a nod to its historic beginnings more than 100 years ago while still offering all the right modern amenities. The welcoming lobby with a fireplace sets the tone for a relaxing stay. Room adornments include a rotary phone, an analog clock, quaint reading lamps, and hardwood floors merging beautifully with modern fixtures, and custom bar pieces with everything necessary for cocktail hour while you watch the sunset out your window. A short distance from the sand in one direction and an easy walk to the village in the other, the hotel is run by Marc & Rose, the same group that will unveil Casa Loma, the former Inn at Laguna Beach, later this year.

DIVINE DINING

Not yet celebrating two years in business, Chez Noir won a Michelin star in its first year and is a semifinalist for a James Beard Award, with an announcement

made this month. Led by husbandand-wife team Jonny and Monique Black, the restaurant offers a four-course meal of the best in locally sourced food and wine with an elegant but not stuffy feel ($125 and up). For an inviting neighborhood spot, check out Seventh & Dolores Steakhouse and feast on a Niman Ranch filet mignon ($77) and miso roasted Brussels sprouts ($16). For a casual lunch hanging with the locals, Mulligan Public House provides a fantastic place for people-watching while nibbling on pretzel bites and sandwiches.

STROLL THE SAND

There are great beaches in Orange County, but nothing soothes like a walk on the sand at Carmel Beach, where the ocean seems clearer and bluer than at home. Meander up on the bluffs and daydream about what it might be like to live in one of the storybook-cute homes along the water. Or head to the sand with all the locals walking their dogs and taking in the fresh air. Especially when the weather is a little chilly, taking time out on this shoreline will restore your spirits.

QUIET RETREAT

Quail Lodge and Golf Resort in Carmel Valley shows off tremendous views of the hills and valley while tucked away from the bustle of the village. Let go of stress at the lodge and its 850 acres teeming with wildlife and surrounded by ranches and wineries. Patios in every room ($325 and up) and an award-winning golf course draw visitors to this hub for exploring the region. Multiple fireplaces in the lobby and an outdoor pond add to the relaxing ethos.

TIME TO SPARE

Take advantage of your tourist status to spend a few hours wandering the village, popping into any of the art galleries, intriguing boutiques, or wine tasting rooms. Somewhere in Carmel is a shop emphasizing a cozy California vibe, with plenty of unique trinkets, stationery, and gifts plus stylish pieces for you to cherish. Afterward, stop at Dawn’s Dream Wine Tasting Room, specializing in pinot noirs, where a reserve tasting starts at $10.

LEFT: Quail Lodge and Golf Resort

RIGHT: La Playa Hotel

MARK

April 4-7: Join 125 international chefs and more than 150 wineries and beverage experts for Pebble Beach Food and Wine at Pebble Beach Resorts. pebblebeachfoodandwine.com PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF QUAIL LODGE AND GOLF RESORT; LA PLAYA HOTEL

O.C. TO GRAND PARIS

Rancho Santa Margarita native Colette Lush takes listeners through the City of Light with her new album “Ginger in Paris.” by Grace Murray

After gaining national attention for her unique voice and vintage style as a contestant on “American Idol,” Lush has gone on to release a handful of R&B projects, further developing her sound. On her latest album, “Ginger in Paris,” Lush recounts tumultuous relationships, heartbreak, and healing through the rose-colored glasses of a trip in Paris. Each of the seven songs showcases Lush’s strong vocal range, including a soulful rendition of “La vie en rose.”

What is it about vintage style and that era of music that captivates you?

¼ I like a lot of stuff from the ’50s and ’60s; Patsy Cline is one of my favorite songwriters of all time. I like jazz, so I like a lot of Sinatra and Julie London. My parents always said that I was an old soul when I was little. When I got into high school, I started watching a lot of Audrey Hepburn movies. I feel like a lot of us go through that phase in high school, but it just stayed with me. I like that vintage style is classic and sexy, but it still feels like you’re being authentic to whatever you’re feeling at that moment.

You’ve stuck with R&B as your sound since the beginning. What drew you to that genre?

¼ I’ve always just loved R&B. Within the ’50s and ’60s artists, I was also listening to a lot of Ray Charles and Etta James. In my opinion, R&B is the most emotional genre.

The lyrics are always about people going through really difficult moments and finding beautiful ways to describe that. Throughout the years, everyone was pushing me into, “You should do pop,” or “You should do country,” and I just felt stubborn. This is always what I’ve loved.

What inspired the theme of “Ginger in Paris”?

¼ I’ve solo backpacked every other year since I was 18, and in 2021, I decided to go to Paris. I’m in love with Paris. I want to move there. I’ve been learning French. I’m in love with their culture for the positive aspects. I like that it’s a city of artists. Every time I’ve gone, everyone I meet is a painter, a creative director, a fashion designer, something creative. I came home from that trip and I said, I think I want to do something extremely specific and create an immersive world so that people can fall in love with

Paris the same way that I did, or at least see it through my lens. I want people to hear it as a story and go from front to back.

What elements did you include to immerse listeners into that story?

¼ I worked on this whole album with one producer, his name’s John Lindahl. I would tell him all the stories

of my trip, I would overshare, and then we would sit there and he’d say, “Let me see if we can find any audio from this.” I started thinking, I have all these videos. Why don’t we take the audio from the actual moment that happened and put those in there? And then it just kind of kept developing from there. It was a great mixture of both of our creativity and imagination.

Photo Credit: Julee Ho

DON’T MISS IN APRIL

“La Boheme,” Yellowjackets, and more by Robin Jones

APRIL 3

JOSHUA BELL & ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS

Renowned violinist Joshua Bell will perform with the chamber orchestra he leads. The program begins with a new piece composed by Vince Mendoza specifically for the Academy of St Martin in the Fields: “Flight of Moving Days,” which features Bell and jazz drummer Douglas Marriner and was commissioned to mark the centenary of Sir Neville Marriner, an English conductor and the founder of Academy of

St Martin in the Fields. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu

APRIL 4, 6, AND 9

“LA BOHEME”

Pacific Symphony teams up with the Pacific Chorale, the Southern California Children’s Chorus, and a powerful cast featuring Teresa Perrotta as Mimi to stage Puccini’s famous opera about a poor seamstress and her artist friends living the Bohemian lifestyle in 1830s Paris. Renée and

APRIL 13 AND 14

IMAGINOLOGY

Science, technology, engineering, art, and math are in the spotlight at the festival celebrating invention and experimentation. Kids of all ages can take part in hands-on activities and view the individual and group project competitions on display. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1718, ocfair.com

Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

APRIL 5 THROUGH 28

“TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS”

Nia Vardalos, the writer and star of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” adapted Cheryl Strayed’s best-selling book into a play. The story centers on an anonymous advice columnist, Sugar, and her relationships with the readers who write to her. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714777-3033, chancetheater.com

OPENS APRIL 5

“PRELUDE TO A KISS, THE MUSICAL” Originally a Tony Award-winning play that made its world premiere at South Coast Repertory, the show has been reimagined as a musical. SCR artistic director David Ivers directs the refreshed story of Peter and Rita’s wedding and the mysterious guest who requests a kiss at the ceremony. Read more on Page 90. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org

APRIL 6

AN EVENING WITH ROGER MCGUINN

The leader of The Byrds, Roger McGuinn is a pioneer in folk rock and country rock. He played with Bobby Darin before joining with David Crosby, Michael Clarke, and Chris Hillman to create the band that notched a No. 1 hit with their version of Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man.” Since 1973, he’s worked as a solo artist, releasing 13 albums and performing around the world. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu

APRIL 11 THROUGH 14

AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE: “WOOLF WORKS”

ABT will perform the North American premiere of a new show inspired by the works of Virginia Woolf. Choreographed by award-winning director and choreog-

APRIL 16 THROUGH 28

“BEETLEJUICE”

Based on the classic 1988 Tim Burton film, the musical follows Lydia Deetz, a teenager whose new home is being haunted by a recently deceased couple under the tutelage of a thousandyear-old demon named Beetlejuice. The show was nominated for eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, when it debuted on Broadway in 2019. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

rapher Wayne McGregor, the ballet draws primarily on three of Woolf’s novels: “Mrs. Dalloway,” “Orlando,” and “The Waves.” Structured in three acts, it was originally commissioned by the Royal Ballet and won the Olivier Award for Best New Dance Production. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

APRIL 12 AND 13

WITTE LECTURE: DAHLIA

LITHWICK

In a lecture titled “The 2022-23 Term at The Supreme Court: What Has Happened and What Is to Come,” MSNBC analyst and Slate senior legal correspondent Dahlia Lithwick will tap into her deep well of knowledge about the nation’s top court. The host of “Amicus,” a podcast about the law and the Supreme Court, and the author of “Lady Justice,” Lithwick will discuss the past, present and future of the court with Michele Bratcher Goodwin, a chancellor’s professor at the UCI School of Law. Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949-5482411, nbplf.foundation

APRIL 14

SECOND MOON

This seven-person South Korean band blends traditional Korean Pansori and Western instrumental music, incorporating everything from the Irish whistle to the mandolin. They’ve released five albums since their founding in 2004 and have performed at folk festivals around the world. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-7386595, themuck.org

APRIL 14

“LEMUR MOM: ONE MOTHER’S ADVENTURES IN AUTISM”

Megan Dolan recounts her experiences navigating support groups, child psychologists, and playdates with a child on the spectrum in a one-woman show. A Long Beach-based writer and actor, Dolan has

performed at The Moth and the Hollywood Fringe Festival. A Q&A with Dolan immediately follows the show. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-9907722, curtistheatre.com

OPENS APRIL 17

“TARTUFFE”

The classic Molière play was first staged in 1664, and the name of its title character has become synonymous with the kind of hypocrite who feigns piety and virtue. In the comedy, written in 12-syllable lines of rhyming couplets, Tartuffe has tricked Orgon and his mother, Madame Pernelle, into believing that he speaks directly with God. As the mother and son fall further under Tartuffe’s control, their friends and family hatch plans to unveil his hypocrisy. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

APRIL 18

CARLOS GRASSO

A mixed-media artist, Carlos Grasso is known for his tapestries and deconstruct-

ed canvases. Born in Argentina, he’s lived much of his life in the U.S. and France, where he worked as a professional musician before becoming a full-time artist. He maintains a studio in Ojai and has shown his work at the LA Art Show, Ojai Valley Museum, Orange County Center for Contemporary Arts, and San Diego Art Institute. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org

APRIL 18

LIBRARY LIVE: TESS GUNTY

In a conversation with Patricia Pierson, associate director of the UCI literary journalism program, author Tess Gunty will discuss her novel “The Rabbit Hutch” and literature in the age of AI. The critically acclaimed book, winner of the National Book Award, follows neighbors in an Indiana housing complex over one week in July that culminates in a surprising act of violence. Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949548-2411, nbplf.foundation

APRIL 18

SOLEDAD BARRIO AND NOCHE FLAMENCA: “SEARCHING FOR GOYA”

The renowned flamenco dance company and its principal dancer, Soledad Barrio, are celebrated around the world for their soulful and emotional performances that integrate live dance and video. The choreography for the show was inspired by the paintings of Spanish painter Francisco Goya. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

APRIL 19

YELLOWJACKETS

The jazz quintet, composed of Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Haslip, Ricky Lawson, Bob Mintzer, and Dane Alderson, is known for its musicianship and improvisation style. Over the past 40 years, they’ve recorded 25 albums and earned 17 Grammy nominations, winning for R&B instrumental performance in 1987 and jazz fusion performance in 1989. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

APRIL 27

KISHI BASHI

A singer-songwriter and violinist, Kishi Bashi has recorded and toured with

Regina Spektor, Sondre Lerche, and of Montreal, and was the singer and a founding member of the New York electronic rock band Jupiter One. In his solo work, he contends with the complexities of his Japanese American heritage and the immigrant experience. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844626-8726, muscocenter.org

APRIL 27 AND 28

“THE BOY WHO CRIED WOLF”

The family-friendly show created by Tutti Frutti, a children’s theater company based in the UK, updates the classic Aesop fable for the current day. It tells the story of Silas, a boy from a family of shepherds who takes on the responsibility of watching the family’s flock of sheep on the mountain over the winter. Bored and upset about missing the town’s annual knitting competition, he cries, “Wolf!” setting in motion a series of events. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

APRIL 27 AND 28

“COPPÉLIA”

The beloved ballet, staged by Festival Ballet and choreographed by artistic director Salwa Rizkalla after Arthur Saint-Léon,

features Katherine Barkman and Esteban Hernandez of the San Francisco Ballet in the lead roles. Barkman dances the role of Swanhilda, whose fiancé, Franz, has grown obsessed with a mysterious girl sitting on the balcony of the town’s inventor, Doctor Coppélius. When Swanhilda discovers that the girl is actually a doll the inventor is trying to bring to life, she dresses like it to convince Franz of his foolishness. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 714309-1280, festivalballet.org

APRIL 29

A CONVERSATION WITH MICHAEL POLLAN

Author Michael Pollan first made a splash with his book “The Omnivore’s Dilemma,” a New York Times bestseller that delved into the four basic ways humans have obtained food over the course of history. Since then, he’s written extensively on the ways humans and the natural world interact, including his 2018 book “How to Change Your Mind,” an exploration of the history and future of psychedelic drugs. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

ALISO

STYLE HOME

BLUEBIRD MERCANTILE

Customers can shop several vendors inside this Laguna Beach storefront. by Chelsea Raineri

The founder of Little Bohemian, Little Bohemian Kids, and the trucker hat brand NBRHD, Amii Schenk wasn’t expecting to get back into retail after selling those companies. But she was intrigued by a concept in Palm Springs where vendors rent a space inside a boutique, such as The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five and Mojave Flea Trading Post. So when Schenk was approached by the owners of Vertigo to take over their retail space and create a shop of her own, she decided to mirror the idea and opened Bluebird Mercantile in December. “We all worked hard to get the shop open; we did it in five weeks,” Schenk says. “I’m very proud of my team.”

Customers can expect an ever-changing rotation of items inside Bluebird Mercantile’s 1,600-square-foot space. Schenk selects vendors based on originality and creativity. While most of her vendors, such as Double M Pottery, make their products, there are also curated clothing collections including A Friend Made. “The (owners) lived in Japan, and they started collecting vintage Japanese clothing items and small boutique clothing items,” Schenk says. On select Sundays, customers can enjoy “Sip and Shops” with complimentary mimosas. Bluebird Mercantile’s Instagram page also posts about upcoming events held onsite, including mood board making, tattoos, and more. The shop also supports Schoolpower, Maui Strong Fund, and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

LIGHTEN UP

Rue Yves Saint Laurent

BUNDLED

BEAD YOURSELF

1550 S. Coast Highway

Laguna Beach 949-549-4363

Instagram: @bluebird mercantilelb

candle, $198

Perfect White Tee top, $100 and bottoms, $110

Beaded keychain bracelet, $39

ROSE LENSES

Complete your outfit with rose accessories and prints.

by Chelsea Raineri

1 LoveShackFancy x Lova

The Flower gold earrings, $255, LoveShackFancy, Lido Marina Village, 949-4325136

2 Tudor rose earring, $2,290, dress, $7,500, and shoes, $1,090, Alexander McQueen, South Coast Plaza, 657205-4477

3 Gold rose necklace, $48, RG by the Sea, San Clemente, 949-503-2039

4 Yellow Cady cocoon dress with Idyll print, $2,200, Marni, South Coast Plaza, 714-380-3155

5 Jimmy Choo Amita embellished leather slingback pumps, $995, Saks Fi h Avenue, South Coast Plaza, 714-540-3233

6 Oscar De La Renta classic ower velvet chain shoulder bag, $2,490, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-7591900

INTRODUCING

savor the moment and indulge in the cozy warmth of our brand new Sunset Snugs

savor the moment and indulge in the cozy warmth of our brand new Sunset Snugs

REPAIR • REUSE • RECYCLE

REPAIR • REUSE • RECYCLE

Our commitment doesn’t end when you leave the store. Since 1974, we have repaired and reused over 400,000 sandals that are donated to needy feet around the world. Our goal is to help those in need and stop broken sandals from going to a landfill and polluting our oceans.

Our commitment doesn’t end when you leave the store. Since 1974, we have repaired and reused over 400,000 sandals that are donated to needy feet around the world. Our goal is to help those in need and stop broken sandals from going to a landfill and polluting our oceans.

ROOM TO GROW

$39.9 MILLION

Laguna Niguel

 15,188 square feet

 6 bedrooms

 10 bathrooms

 This home sits on more than 13 acres with panoramic ocean views.

 Of Note: Celebrate Earth Day by growing something in the garden along the hillside featuring raised planters.

 13 Old Ranch Road

 Tim Smith, 949-678-1070, and Joshua Altman, 310-819-3250

WISDOM FROM a plant expert

MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS …

Just having greenery in your home is calming to your nervous system. Also, if you repot plants or garden, there are microorganisms in the soil that boost the chemicals in our body that make us happy. They also clean the air in your home.

SERVICES OFFERED …

We o er interior design services and maintenance services. We like to make it a positive,

exciting experience for our clients and for them to be able to enjoy their plants so it’s not overwhelming. We specialize in custom moss wall living pieces, which are zero maintenance— no watering or lighting required—and make your entire living space beautiful.

TIPS …

We always recommend if you have pets or children to get a nontoxic plant. We

explain each plant to our customers and how they will do in your place. We also have people show us or tell us about their home’s lighting. A moisture meter is going to be your best friend; the soil could look dry but at the very bottom it could be completely moist. Our top three plants that are super easy are snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants.

Melissa Murillo owns Huntington Beach’s Plants By Yours Truly. She shares tips for new plant parents.

A FLAIR FOR DRAMA

Beth Ho man designed this Corona del Mar living space with contrasting elements. by Chelsea Raineri

Ho man, owner of Corona del Mar-based Beth Ho man Designs, used dark colors, color blocking, and lighting under the shelves to create a moody look. “The homeowners love dark, and drama, and black,” Ho man says. “They’re art collectors themselves

1 CHAIR “It’s a midcentury, groovy, hip, li le piece of art with a cool textured fabric,” Ho man says.

2 FIREPLACE “I’m a big fan of natural stones. I love the movement and and the organic feeling that they bring.”

so (I created) an interesting centerpiece as the fi replace and incorporated some of the new trends such as fluted cabinets and a lot of warm woods.” The owners’ grandchildren frequently visit, so Ho man ensured that everything in the room is kid-friendly and touchable. bethho mandesign.com

3 TABLES “I like working with multiple circles and overlapping them (when there’s) a big area that’s tricky to get a rectangular shape.”

4 CABINETS

“(The owner) really needed space for storage, and these are disappearing being that it’s touchlatch cabinetry.”

5 PILLOWS

“The pillows add more texture and earthy neutrals. I was inspired by some of their art pieces.”

6 COUCH “It’s a gorgeous perennial boucle, which is hard to find. It’s indoor, outdoor, and all-seasons.”

Photo:

INDUSTRY EXPERT Q & A INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN

with Jade Madrigal

California Closets Designer

Jade Madrigal

California Closets Orange County Showroom Locations:

Huntington Beach

5921 Skylab Road 714-899-4905

Corona Del Mar 2854 East Coast Highway 949-478-7366

californiaclosets.com

California Closets is more than just closets. While the titular rooms might be its bread and butter, over the decades the vision has expanded into nearly every room of the house. California Closets can set up your living, dining, office and, of course, closet spaces.

Orange Coast spoke with Jade Madrigal, one of California Closets designers, about the 48-year-old company’s unique process for delivering outstanding results for its clients.

Q What does California Closets aim to bring to its clients?

A Our mission is to help bring a vision to life. The spaces that we work on are really personal to our clients. The home is where you create most memories. Bringing visions to life and helping create dream spaces is what we do.

Q What do you do as a designer?

A I help to concept out a client’s ideas and format it into this nice rendering that works for their space works and works for their budget. We create together. It starts a lot of times with just, “I need double-hanging for my shirts,” or, “I need long-hanging for my gowns that I occasionally store,” and we find a way to make magic and create a space that’s more of a dressing room and an experience. Something that our clients can include in their home tours. We make spaces beautiful and functional.

Q What is your favorite part of the job?

A I love creating a relationship with the client, building their trust, gaining that respect, and helping them visualize exactly what they want and bringing it to life. My favorite part is just getting to be creative with the client and show them things that they wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. It is a collaborative process and together, we can come up with some really cool ideas.

Q What was one of the most memorable assignments for you?

A I have one client I’m on job six with now. We started with a craft room, then that turned into five other projects. We’ve done everything but closets with that client. We’ve done the dining room, the media center, a pantry, guest room and a bar area. I think that client specifically is unique because they were kind of just shopping around, testing the waters with the one space. I’m glad that I passed the test because it turned into a long-standing relationship. Now I’d consider them family friends.

Q Why should people choose California Closets for their space design needs?

A We take care of our clients as a whole. California Closets is always focuses on the customer first. When we’re out in the field, talking to customers and forming that relationship with them, to have a company that backs us [as designers] is huge. It’s the only company I’ve worked for that cares so much about that relationship and doing whatever they can to help the client.

TRENDS

2 Factory Direct Patio Covers Inc.

Maximize your outdoor living space with Maxxwood Customized outdoor shade structures.

Maxxwood™ offers the aesthetic appeal of real wood with no maintenance, unlike traditional aluminum products. Featuring BIG beam construction, it caters to discerning customers seeking durability and elegance, setting it apart from conventional options.

888-220-3970

Alumawoodfactorydirect.net

3 Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

We like to call this look industrial farmhouse! We combine the edgy rugged lines of iron with traditional white oak treads. The open stair tread creates a modern twist to the traditional staircase.

714.536.6942

1 Westminster Teak

Horizon High-Chaise Lounge Bench

Introducing the Horizon High Chaise Bench – a versatile integration of a chaise lounge and bench, designed to elevate your lounging experience. Combining innovation with timeless elegance, the raised height of this sleek, beautifully crafted bench effortlessly and seamlessly transitions into a chaise lounger. Crafted from premium solid teak sourced from certified sustainable plantations, it promises durability and aesthetic appeal, indoors or outdoors. Elevate your seating experience, elevate your space!

800.446.0001

westminsterteak.com

TRENDS

5 VERGOLA

Revolutionize your outdoor living space with Vergola's customdesigned, automated roof system. Effortlessly control the balance of warm natural light and cooling shade with its adjustable louvers, maximizing the time you can comfortably spend outside. Every smart pergola is equipped with rain sensor technology to automatically close at the first drop of rain, regardless if you're tracking the forecast. Vergola's premium, durable materials are corrosion-resistant, hurricanegrade wind protected, and insulated for maximum airflow and energy efficiency.

855.949.8374

vergola.com

6 Superior Tree Care

Sheltering Shade

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

714.502.0226

superiortreecare.net

4 SOCO & The OC Mix

Discover Costa Mesa's Premier Home & Lifestyle

Destination: SOCO & The OC Mix

Embark on an unparalleled shopping experience at SOCO & The OC Mix in Costa Mesa, CA. Explore curated boutiques, exquisite dining, and cutting-edge design in one vibrant destination. Where inspiration meets indulgence - your ultimate lifestyle awaits.

949.760.9150

socoandtheocmix.com

TRENDS

7 Pacific Shore Stones

Busy, patterned backsplashes are being replaced by simple, sleek designs. Subway tiles and marbles are the new trending backsplash options. Here at Pacific Shore Stones, we have TONS of marble options ranging from simple to intricate vein patterns, so you are sure to find something that fits your style.

949.536.5055

pacificshorestones.com

8 California Closets Orange County

Making space for what belongs

We offer highly personalized and collaborative designs for the entire home that enriches interior life.

Create dual functionality by transforming your home office into a guest room (or guest room into an office) whenever necessary.

714.899.4905

CaliforniaClosets.com

Instagram @CaliforniaClosetsOC

CREATE THE ULTIMATE

FOOD DRINK

SERPENT’S GRASP

THE COCKTAIL The county’s most intriguing tiki drink is built around … Mexican ingredients!

THE DETAILS Michoacán’s cane-based Uruapan Charanda rum, Xila spiced-mezcal and Nixta corn liqueurs, tamarind, cinnamon, grapefruit, lime, Aztec chocolate bi ers, and absinthe arrive aming in a spectacular serpent mug.

THE PRICE $60, but easily serves three

THE PLACE Strong Water, Anaheim

KIAN MOLTAJI

Known on Instagram and TikTok as @kianthechef, Moltaji leveraged his online following to open Diotima Bakehouse in Mission Viejo last year. The Irvine resident honed his skills at a Parisian culinary school and shares his passion for pastries with customers who line up early to get their hands on his bakes.

by Astgik Khatchatryan

WHY DIOTIMA?

She’s a character in Plato’s “Symposium.” I got a degree in philosophy from UCLA before deciding to go to culinary school. I figured I’d make a better chef than philosopher.

WHY DID YOU START MAKING VIDEOS ONLINE?

I wanted to open a small bakery of my own, but I didn’t have the money or connections. I thought, maybe I’ll try making some videos and see if it goes anywhere. It was a Hail Mary. By the fifth video, it exploded. I was shocked.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PASTRY?

It all goes back to the not-so-humble croissant for me. One of the biggest reasons I went to Paris was to learn how to make a good croissant. I’m somewhere near my 15,000th croissant by now but I’m still working toward perfection. I joke that my mood is directly proportional to the outcome of the croissants each day.

ANY ADVICE FOR WOULD - BE BAKERS?

Just do it. Fail and get better. With my videos, I am really trying to teach people in a fun way. Serious cooking in a not-soserious way. So I would say, don’t worry too much about it and just try things. Just please weigh your ingredients in grams!

DO YOU HAVE ANY SECRET TALENTS?

I like to think I’m a pretty good shower singer. I sing classical Persian music. But I’ve never sang in front of anyone.

photograph

ON THE LAMB

Baaaa-boom! Intriguing takes on the spring favorite. by

Benjamin Epstein

ARIA KITCHEN

Co-owner and consummate host Mahta Aria presents stylish Mexican-Persian fare in a setting both refined and relaxed under the watchful gaze of Frida Kahlo portraits. The restaurant offers a cornucopia of lamb shank dishes: slow-cooked New Zealand lamb-shank enchiladas, festively presented; a huge wet burrito topped with labneh and guacamole; mesquitegrilled lamb fajitas; lamb shank birria and birria tacos; and koobideh lambkebab tacos. Start with the Pomegranate Refresher cocktail, with rum and Chartreuse, or elegant Mezcal Guava Sour; saffron cardamom flan is the must-have finish. 2636 Dupont Drive, Irvine, 949-9320620, ariakitchen.co

ZOV’S

Zov Karamardian, grande dame among the county’s chefs and restaurateurs, recently marked the 35th anniversary of her original bistro and bakery—which looks as vibrant as ever. Of Armenian heritage, Karamardian came here from Baghdad, Iraq, as a teen and is known for contemporary Mediterranean cuisine; her mezze platter and Moroccan salmon are signatures. Her new lamb egg rolls—an instant classic smartly presented with roasted corn, fresh herbs, garlic labneh, and roasted red pepper aioli— are a take on the American Chinese appetizer with a nod to her Middle Eastern roots. 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin, 714-838-8855, zovs.com

HEAVEN ON A FORK

Not surprisingly, the Persian spot offers a lamb shank in saffrontomato sauce and a rack of charbroiled spring lamb chops. Totally unexpected is the aptly named Heaven Stew, featuring impossibly tender, slow-cooked, deliciously seasoned lamb neck—think lamb neck ossobuco flatbread pot pie. According to Chef-Owner Amir Shirazi, a whopping nine out of 10 tables order the dish; choice of five rice sides include one with dill, another with Persian barberry. The Makhloot, a dessert whose name translates to “promiscuous,” combines rosewater-inflected ice cream and ice noodles.

25381 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills, 949-382-2777, heavenonafork.com

NORTHERN CAFE

Though pork is the runaway favorite meat in China, lamb figures in the country’s north—and naturally at a restaurant specializing in that region’s cuisine. The spicy sauerkraut lamb hot pot at the fast-casual venue presents the namesake sauerkraut and sliced lamb with clams and crab sticks; pork mini-sausages and “luncheon meat”; tempura and tofu; wood-ear, enoki, and bunapi mushrooms; napa cabbage; vermicelli … and over-the-top flavor. Also offered: steamed lamb dumplings and cumin lamb stir-fry. Prolific Chinese restaurateur Betty Ren is set to open a second Irvine location. 4175 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-418-7309, northerncafeirvine.com

SCENE SEEN

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION INSPIRATIONALZ GALA

It was a record-breaking evening for the Alzheimer’s Association Orange County Chapter, drawing 400 guests to the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach and raising $490,000 from the nonprofit’s second InspirationALZ Gala. The money will help support the chapter’s educational programs, advocacy efforts, and other services. It was also a grand opportunity to present longtime supporter Paul Wexler, a former local board of directors chairman and national board member, with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

1. Delores Powell, musical performer Presley Tennant, and Robyn Tennant

2. Dan Wu, gala co-chair Joyce Catherine Wu, Cheryl Howard, and Marcelino Cosio

3. Executive Director Deborah Levy, Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Paul Wexler, and board chair Derek Angelo Serrano

4. Roz and Paul Wexler, and Cheri Platte

5. Gala co-chairs Joyce Catherine Wu and Claire Driscoll

2

3

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BUILDING DREAMS BREAKFAST

The staff and volunteers of Habitat for Humanity of Orange County dream of building 100 homes during the next two years. And they came a bit closer to that goal with the $404,000 raised from the Building Dreams Breakfast. Some 150 community leaders, volunteers, and supporters attended the breakfast, held at Singleton Classics’ cool Costa Mesa showroom. Among the guests: the Martinez and Crispin families, Habitat for Humanity homeowners who can speak firsthand to the organization’s important work.

1. Kitchen Table Marketing & PR founder Carrie Freitas, Chef Jamie Gwen, and Bloomingdale’s Director of Marketing Leahann Miller

2. Automobile Club of Southern California President John Boyle, Antis Roofing and Waterproofing President Charles Antis, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County President and CEO Michael Valentine, and Habitat for Humanity of Orange County board chair Marcy Tieger

3. Guests raised their paddles high to help make homeownership affordable in Orange County.

4. The Martinez family, owners of a Habitat for Humanity home

5. Habitat for Humanity of Orange County President and CEO Michael Valentine, and Singleton Classics owners Will and Cary Singleton

ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SUMMIT

Since 2015, Orange County Community Foundation has raised nearly $26 million for local nonprofits through its Giving Days program. Originally created as a single countywide day of giving, the effort now exists as a yearlong series. Last year alone, the program raised close to $5 million. And it was cause for celebration during the foundation’s second iheartoc Giving Days Summit, attended by more than 200 nonprofit professionals from 75 local organizations.

1. Giant Squid social impact consultant Sydney Stoudmire led workshop sessions on ethical storytelling and peer-topeer fundraising.

2. Briana Stickney, Orange County Community Foundation donor and community engagement associate

3. Sarah Mizuno and Karah Del Cont from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast

4. YMCA of Orange County Advancement and Marketing Coordinator Claire Alkire

5. Giant Squid Group social consultant Sydney Stoudmire

6. Guests took home commemorative iheartoc coffee mugs.

7. Sarah Butler and Vikki Shepp from Girl Scouts of Orange County

8. More than 200 nonprofit professionals from 75 organizations attended the breakfast, held at the Delhi Center in Santa Ana.

9. Guests posted notes on a “What Fills Your Heart?” wall

NEW SERIES

APRIL 7

FINAL SEASON

APRIL 28

STREAM ON THE FREE PBS APP

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 40 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 2024. 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.

3 Hutton Centre Drive, Suite 900 Santa Ana, CA 92707

P 714.241-4444 | F 714.241.4445

callahan-law.com

TED WACKER BRINGS COMPASSION TO PERSONAL INJURY

For Ted B. Wacker, personal injury cases are truly personal.

“I always had a passion and love for representing the underdog,” said Wacker, whose father was an attorney in Seattle. “[My father] had a big personal injury case [when I was] a kid, and that planted a seed in me to do this type of work.”

Wacker’s grandfather also distilled his desire to assist those in need. e man was a chaplain in the army during World War II and later a Methodist minister. Wacker said one of his core memories from childhood was watching his grandfather donate clothes to a homeless man.

ose early moments helped to shape Wacker’s career. e drive to lift the underdog started with his rst major case, years before he started his own

rm, when he was part of the team getting justice for the victims of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.

Wacker built his career over the ensuing decades and had a turn as president of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association. His motto during his tenure keenly represented his philosophy for law: “Perseverance with passion.”

Wacker launched TBW Law a decade ago, and he has led its distinct, experienced group of professionals with that very motto. e rm has a penchant for taking on di cult cases and winning big decisions for its clients, including a $21.2 million verdict against U-Haul.

“ at’s who we are as a rm – treating each [client] as an individual,” Wacker explained. “ at’s how I’ve pursued this.”

THOMAS CIFARELLI

REPRESENTING SURVIVORS OF CATASTROPHIC INJURIES AND SEXUAL ABUSE

Every case omas Cifarelli takes on behalf of an injured client is an all or nothing mission to win justice for his clients. When he took on his rst child sexual abuse case as a young attorney in 1994, he quickly learned two things: First, sexual abuse is far more common than most people realize—in schools, churches, youth sports and activities, foster care, colleges and universities, even in our neighborhoods and workplaces; and second, most survivors of sexual abuse are scared or shamed into silence, and for those able to come forward, they often don’t know how to nd experienced, smart and tenacious legal representation.

Mr. Cifarelli’s rst case representing a young survivor of sexual abuse resulted in what was at the time the largest jury verdict for student-on-student sexual assault in Los Angeles County history. Since then, Mr. Cifarelli has dedicated his career to helping survivors of sexual abuse obtain justice and reclaim their voice through the legal process. Over the years, Mr. Cifarelli has obtained well into the nine gures for victims of sexual abuse, representing hundreds of sexual abuse survivors throughout California and the United States. He recently represented more than a dozen former students at USC who were sexually abused at the student health center by a trusted university physician and obtained one of the largest per plainti recovery awards in that entire litigation which involved hundreds of claimants.

Mr. Cifarelli also handles catastrophic cases involving wrongful death, severe personal injuries and select medical malpractice cases involving medical mistakes that cause serious harm. “Although the majority of my practice involves representing survivors of sexual abuse and assault, regardless of the speci c case that I handle, my goal is always the same: to work tirelessly to obtain for each client full justice for the harms and losses they’ve su ered.”

Mr. Cifarelli -- named a Super Lawyer every year since 2004, selected to Best Lawyers in America annually since 2011 and named its Lawyer of the Year in 2015, 2017 and 2023 -- has assembled a team of talented attorneys including of counsel Jonati “Joey” Yedidsion and dedicated support sta who are as committed and passionate about helping their clients obtain justice as he is. From the moment a new client contacts the rm they are assigned a client advocate who is their personal point of contact within the rm and also assists them in obtaining appropriate outside assistance including doctors, therapists, and other experts to help them begin the healing process.

“Our objective is to turn survivors of unspeakable harms and losses into victors,” says Cifarelli. Contact Mr. Cifarelli for a private, con dential, and free initial consultation today.

MORTENSON TAGGART ADAMS LLP DELIVERS WINS FOR DIVERSE CLIENTELE

Mortenson Taggart Adams LLP might be relatively new on the law scene, but their youthful vigor and experienced former “big law” attorneys has catapulted the rm to Southern California’s top tier of litigation rms.

Michael D. Mortenson, Craig A. Taggart and Kevin A. Adams had all known one another from the early days of their respective careers and had wanted to go into business together. Mortenson says that his wife issued him a challenge while he and Craig were junior associates at Bingham McCutchen, that whenever Taggart said to him, unprompted, that he was ready to start a law rm, then that would be the time to do it.

“In 2017, Craig Taggart and I reunited as equity partners … my book of business had grown pretty substantially. Craig had a really good book of business himself,” Mortenson explained. “We were having lunch one day in early 2019, and Craig said to me, ‘You know what? We’re kind of operating as a rm within a rm. We should just start our own law rm.’ I literally hit the table and said, ‘ at’s it! Okay,” and I called my wife to tell her we were starting a law rm,” he said.

e pair brought on Adams, Taggart’s former roommate, and by 2019 the trio was o to

the races. e rm, which has now grown to nearly 50 employees across two di erent o ces, provides a litany of litigation services, specializing in business-related matters and strategic advising. A key component to the rm’s success, in addition to its exceptional trial outcomes, lies in the team’s dedication to building and cultivating strong relationships with their clients.

“You have to spend the time to get to know your client to be in a position to achieve its goals,” Adams said. “ ey are putting a tremendous amount of trust in us, and for us to do our job, we need them to trust us, and I think developing those relationships with them assists us in providing them the best level of representation that we can.”

Taggart added that the relationship-building extends to the other employees in the rm. Many of the other attorneys at Mortenson Taggart Adams LLP were people with whom the trio had already worked previously at various major law rms.

“It [has] created a really collegial environment,” Taggart explained. “You have a group of people that actually like to work together. We all like to come to work every single day.”

Mortenson Taggart Adams LLP has won cases for the likes of Ford Motor Company, Western Digital and other major companies. Success stories are frequent. Rivian Automotive hired the rm for a case that showcased how e ective

300 Spectrum Center Drive, Suite 1200, Irvine 949-774-2224 | mortenseontaggart.com

the group is at securing wins for their clients.

“Rivian Automotive hired us to represent them in a class action suit that was led before they went public. We were one of the very rst law rms that Rivian had hired. We got the entire class action thrown out, and we got the plainti ’s lawyer sanctioned for ling a frivolous case,” Mortenson recalled.

e rm has been so successful that they’ve outgrown their o ces … twice.

“During the pandemic, I think we were one of the only rms that was looking to add space,” Mortenson said.

“We’re looking at not just adding o ces in other cities, but even expanding this space here in [Orange] County as well as expand our Walnut Creek o ce,” Adams said.

Hiring Mortenson Taggart Adams LLP means hiring one of the most talented and fastestgrowing rms in the country, and the trio behind the name is ready to meet their clients’ needs.

“We are blessed to have such terri c clients – Fortune 500 clients, mid-market clients, we have individuals and entrepreneurs,” Mortenson said. “We have a really wide variety of clientele. We work hard for them every day. And we’ve been fortunate enough to deliver exceptional results for them during the fourand-a-half-year life of this rm.”

CALL & JENSEN

PUTS A POWERFUL FOOT FORWARD FOR ITS CLIENTS

Call & Jensen can handle the truth. Litigating its clients’ pathways to success has been a patented art at the firm since 1981. Its reputation is so great, that opponents rarely take the risk of going head-to-head with one of its 30-plus, decorated attorneys in the courtroom, instead opting to make favorable settlements with Call & Jensen’s clients. And if a case does go to trial, Call & Jensen has a mock courtroom ready, making for the most effective trial preparation space available.

“People will be hard-pressed to find many other firms in California – if any – with the education and experience Call & Jensen has at the rates we can offer,” Shareholder Joshua G. Simon said. Shareholder Aaron L. Renfro echoed Simon’s sentiments and said that attorneys at the firm always keep their clients’ goals squarely focused: “At Call & Jensen, we believe that when it comes to litigation and trials, less is often more, and we disavow any tactic that strays from the merits of the case or the client’s objective.”

Three recent successes showcase how impressive Call & Jensen’s record is, including a $40 million verdict for a long-standing corporate client that was raided by a company officer; a $9 million verdict secured in a defense victory for an international breach of contract case; and an international arbitration of a complex business dispute against a corporation that led to a total victory, even though the opponent outspent the firm four to one.

“All three cases involved company clients that were harmed in ways that cost jobs and impacted real people,” Simon said. “All three cases were complicated and involved multiple parties and cross-claims. In all three cases, we obtained complete justice for our clients in succeeding on our own affirmative claims and prevailing against our opponents’ cross-claims.”

The firm represents large, internationally-known corporations, as well as up-and-coming companies alike.

At its heart, Call & Jensen stays true to its principals and values, centering quality relationships, a supportive culture, and professionalism.

610 Newport Center Drive, Suite 700, Newport Beach 949.717.3000 | calljensen.com

MIKE BREWER

LAWYER FOR CRIME VICTIMS

Mike Brewer is a criminal justice attorney, a “private prosecutor”, hired to obtain justice for crime victims, in and outside of the criminal justice system. He is a former prosecutor, who now leads a team of former law enforcement officers and military personnel, to handle a wide variety of cases for crime victims.

His team solves homicides, locates missing persons, performs threat assessment and management of stalking and workplace violence, prosecutes fraud, handles a wide variety of investigations, and has even recovered an abducted child from eastern Europe. The team resolves blackmail cases, outside of the legal system, for clients who do not want the subject of the blackmail made public.

Brewer’s team works with law enforcement to solve and prosecute cases on behalf of victims. As crime increases, law enforcement is stretched thin and overwhelmed in some places - Brewer’s team fills the void for their clients. The team assists law enforcement, by investigating cases for clients, putting reports and cases together, and presenting those cases to law enforcement and prosecutors. The cases are ready to prosecute, “wrapped up with a bow”, with much of the hard work already done. Brewer then follows the cases in court under Marsy’s Law. Brewer spent many years as an L.A. criminal prosecutor. He was a member of L.A.’s high-profile Stalking and Threat Assessment Team, which prosecuted cases involving celebrities and public officials who were crime victims. He successfully prosecuted cases involving Gwyneth Paltrow, Jackson Browne, Pamela Anderson, Axl Rose, and others.

Brewer was an instructor for the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Academy, and other law enforcement agencies across the country. He trained and worked with the United States Secret Service on stalking and dignitary threat cases. He is certified in Advanced Threat Assessment & Management.

4425 Jamboree Road, Suite 130, Newport Beach 949-863-9682 | TheBrewerLawFirm.com

HARDIN LAW GROUP

FIGHTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF EMPLOYEES

James Hardin is a man of his values. By his own words, he believes in treating people fairly, fighting for what is right and contributing to society. And that is the foundation of Hardin Law Group.

For the first 15 years of his career, Hardin worked as a business litigator, but something wasn’t quite clicking.

“I always felt like a ‘lawyer’ representing ‘clients,’ who were usually midsize or large companies,” Hardin said. “It was only when I moved to the other side, representing people who had been mistreated by supervisors and employers, that I really felt a deep connection between my core values.”

In 2015, when he started his own firm, Hardin began receiving calls from people who were owed wages, had been discriminated against, wrongfully terminated, sexually harassed and a litany of other employment-related abuses.

“I really enjoyed connecting with them, understanding what happened and coming up with the best legal theories and strategies to help them,” he related. “I knew right away that I was meant to do this. I felt great then, and it still feels great today almost 10 years later.”

Hardin Law Group has fought for hundreds of people, helping to obtain recoveries that have held companies accountable and improved working conditions. One example involved an employee who had a partial disability due to a workplace injury. His employer initially agreed to accommodate his condition, but then, after several years, stopped accommodating and ceased promised support payments. Hardin was able to obtain a $2.5 million settlement from the employer.

“When someone is fired or mistreated at work, it can be devastating. All of a sudden, you become unable to support yourself and your family. This can lead to serious consequences … We understand this, and it motivates us in all of the cases we take,” Hardin said.

844.615.1122

Orange County’s dining scene is fired up on all fronts. From audacious indies and design-forward dinner houses to dazzling spino° s by proven players, here are the new arrivals that deliver a supersatisfying experience. You’ve waited all year for this list—use it to book the hottest tables in town.

by GRETCHEN KURZ

photography

by SCOTT SMELTZER

Webb’s Grainworks

7 JOURNEY, ALISO VIEJO, WEBBSGRAINWORKS.COM

o drum roll or press release heralded last September’s debut of Webb’s Grainworks, our Best New Restaurant of the Year. I had to cajole skeptics to meet me in an Aliso Viejo business park to prove the existence of O.C.’s most ambitious new hyphenate—a restaurant and bar, brewery, distillery, and bottle shop sharing a single address. The inconspicuous location allowed founder Jeremy Webb to stealthily transform the 21,000-squarefoot complex, formerly an event center that once housed his father Lew Webb’s rare automobile collection. Vestiges of the collection provide eye candy for the 104-seat room—vintage Ford and Buick signage shine brightly, a Santa Fe Railway caboose supplies patio seating, and a

Nrestored Ford Model T is suspended high above. Meals start with site-brewed beer or one of 20 signature cocktails built with Webb’s branded spirits distilled or aged on-premises. A scratch kitchen fuels an all-day menu of comfort food with global twists. Think smoked salt corn ribs with yuzu kosho dipping sauce. Top-notch burgers and sandwiches feature juicy wagyu patties, house-cured bacon, pastrami, and smoked brisket. Don’t miss Webb’s ri on tater tots, latkis—fried potato orbs smothered in beer cheese, brisket, or carnitas. And for the morning after, The Cure, dark dashi noodles with a halfpour of beer. Now that the word is out, Webb’s is reliably packed with locals and the curious embracing this enterprising indie making waves in a sea of suburban chains and franchises.

Foodies’ Faves

by Traci Takeda

@BeastlyAppetite

City: Santa Ana

IG: 93.1k

TikTok: 63.7k

VACA IN COSTA MESA

I love Vaca for the authentic Spanish food, and the craft cocktails are amazing! One of my favorite orders is the paella con carne.

TACOS LOS CHOLOS IN ANAHEIM

My absolute favorite order is the AHM Asada Burrito, which is a poblano pepper with cheese and juicy carne asada.

@Califoodventure

City: Buena Park

IG: 72.2k

TikTok: 65.6k

HAN YANG IN BUENA PARK

Classic Korean restaurant for the soul that all the local ajummas (older women) and ajusshis (older men) know about! Meals that heal.

@SpicyHabibti

City: Costa Mesa

IG: 34.1k

TikTok: 36.8k

HABANA IN COSTA MESA AND IRVINE Habana embodies Cuban cuisine with a fantastic ambience. My favorite is the plantain-crusted chicken.

Julep

3325 E. IMPERIAL HIGHWAY, BREA, 714 - 983 - 7364

’d never suggest Julep Cast Iron Kitchen to my salad-obsessed hairstylist. But for fans of unabashedly rich fare, this is your North County source for Southern-style fritters and crunchy fried chicken served piping hot, paired with decadent sauces. Memorable e orts from the deep fryer include crispy creamed corn fritters with bourbon-spiked maple sauce, rock shrimp beignets, and fi rst-rate green tomatoes fried in ultra-light breading that stays put for dunking in fresh aioli. Juicy boneless chicken in craggy jackets of seasoned batter is terrific, appearing in many modes—with coleslaw beside a lunch sandwich, as tenders on the kids’ menu, and with wa es or eggs

Iat brunch. There’s even a version for vegans. Richly braised, unmushy short rib can be an entree or a trio of sliders. A daringly wide swath of cocktails includes tiki selections like the audaciously luscious Ken-tiki Tea Spiller with dual rums. The 16-stool bar crowned with rows of whiskey bottles anchors a dining room fi lled with eye candy—chandeliers and brass animal lamp bases gleaming with art nouveau feathers and dragonfl ies. Surreal portraits of women in period dress dominate the walls. Julep joins sibling Benny and Mary’s on this year’s list—both are from the seven-unit Toast Restaurant Group led by Cynthia Vigil and husband Chad Reinhardt. The group also operates nearby brunch-centric Toast Kitchen.

SCaló

3333 BRISTOL ST., COSTA MESA, 714 - 462 - 1445

outh Coast Plaza presented O.C. diners with a dazzling holiday gift last November—Caló Kitchen + Tequila. The long wait for a compelling Mexican option was rewarded with a sultry 220seat showcase for owner Clemente Heredia’s modern Mexican cuisine born from his family’s generationslong California hospitality. The open kitchen sends out polished, intentional fare—be the recipes traditional or novel. Beef queso tacos are new to the Caló menu (there are older locations in El Segundo and Laguna Niguel)— five little tacos bulging with tender roast beef and sharp cotija cheese surround a bold consume for dipping. Stellar starters also include fresh shrimp or vegan ceviche, crunchy shrimp taquitos with smoky salsa quemada,

and the universally adored gratis chips and black bean dip. All openers make ideal pairings for seven signature margaritas, fortified with 2-ounce tequila pours. Juicy watermelon cubes with tangy queso fresco and nutty pepita-rich dressing is the salad that soars, but tri-color quinoa is close behind, mixed with white corn and ruby pomegranate with mango vinaigrette. Clemente’s Enchiladas feature guava-tinged sauce over shrimp and lobster rolled in fresh tortillas. A sizzling mini plancha with sliced steak and grilled queso supplies the base for tacos you build to suit yourself. That same ribeye also appears on a salad or as an entree with jalapeño scalloped potatoes. Don’t overlook terrific combo plates starring enchiladas, crispy beef tacos, chicken asada tacos, carnitas chile relleno, and a dynamite pork tamale.

HStarfish

191 RIVERSIDE AVE., NEWPORT BEACH, 949 - 570 - 3990

ard-won expertise is the not-so-secret ingredient behind Starfi sh’s instant popularity with Newport Beach diners.

Owners Gretchen and Archie McConnell took their time opening this petite sibling to their pan-Asian Laguna Beach fl agship, elevating standards and expanding the menu in the process. Executive Chef Omar Pineda’s scratch kitchen cuts no corners, folding dumplings, wontons, and shao mai fresh daily. Noodles are hand-cut. Cocktail juices are just-squeezed. Dishes rarely skimp on star ingredients. If the 75-item menu is daunting, just know that the macadamia nut lobster roll is luscious, the barbecue pork buns are tender, the spicy beef with basil is vibrant, the

lump crab fried rice is exceptional, and the black bean Chilean seabass is buttery. Asian herbs and lime-crab vinaigrette elevate the Cambodian cucumber salad. Deeply savory Cantonese-style ribs have perfect texture. Expect many Thai, Viet, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese fl avors and fusions thereof—just scratching the surface of the colossal selection requires multiple visits. Defi nitely explore scores of imaginative sake cocktails and a wine list better than it has to be. Sample more for roughly 30 percent less during Opium Hour, 3 to 6 p.m. daily. Service is unexpectedly polished, underscoring the buoyant vibe here. Loyal fans keep the precious 55 seats full, so always make reservations. Walk-ins can take their chances at the 10-seat bar.

Benny and Mary’s

18420 VON KARMAN

AVE.,

IRVINE, 714 - 439 - 1733

What a relief to see the vacantfor-years Irvine address that was momentarily Davio’s reanimate last fall as Benny and Mary’s. Yet another concept from Toast Restaurant Group, the red-hot creatives behind Julep, this is its most upscale e ort to date. Owner-designer Cynthia Vigil imbues the 140-seat room with a plush library vibe, made moody with dramatic light fi xtures and original artwork. Despite all the velvet booths and linen-draped tables, the bar seems to fi ll up fi rst here thanks to fiercely original cocktails, exactingly concocted.

Libations such as Adult Green Juice, Snake Oil, and Once You Chai One vie for supremacy

with a tight menu of eclectic dishes. Don’t miss shareables such as grilled cheese dumplings in spicy tomato bisque, bulgogi on bao, or Baja shrimp ceviche. Burly grass-fed burgers are served from lunch through closing. Alas, lunch is the sole window for the fennel-citrus salad with muscatel vinaigrette. At dinner, highcomfort short-rib osso buco is a best seller and the notably savory vegan meatloaf includes rosemary pommes purée. Pastas are few but select—the creamy lemon bucatini looks to be a signature soon. Curious fact—the name Benny and Mary’s alludes to brunch (as in Benedicts and bloodies), but the promised brunch service has yet to commence. Once it does, do consider the lovely 60-seat patio.

What’s New?

Checking in with past winners of Best New Restaurant of the Year reveals intriguing upgrades and noteworthy updates.

BUTCHER’S HOUSE

I often insist no one in these parts makes a Toulouse sausage that rivals France native Chef-Owner Jeo˜ rey O˜ er’s snappy, pungent links. But now that O˜ er is selling the fresh sausage for $18 per pound, we can sizzle up those porky, paprika-hued beauties at home. Also look for his customgrind ready-to-grill burgers, signature sauces, and even a curated selection of epicurean French imports to join the takeaway lineup soon.

GEMA

Owner Sarah Goldman and Executive Chef Juan Pablo Cruz share a passion for the mysteries and traditions of mezcal, curating the largest collection of premium expressions in O.C. Currently under construction, an adjacent new Liberia will o˜ er late-night tasting flights and compatible botanas (snacks) in an intimate setting.

FABLE & SPIRIT

The gracious Coyle clan o˜ ers a refreshed weekday happy hour menu of select noshes and ingenious cocktails like The Ritual, an aromatic bourbon elixir. Oenophiles should always take the Sneaky Hare challenge— guess the wine o˜ the list and your glass is free. Also, weekend brunch is a welcome addition for peckish late risers—the corned beef hash is maximal Irish comfort fare.

SIDEDOOR

When this Corona del Mar darling was our first Restaurant of the Year back in 2011, no reservations were accepted. Today you can book ahead for weekly specials such as Whiskey Wednesday, Fromage Friday, and Trivia Tuesday. Even better, there’s now a late-night happy hour from 8 to 10 p.m., with reduced prices on select nibbles and cocktails, plus $5 draft Stone Delicious IPA.

FABLE & SPRIRIT

Rare Society

226 AVENIDA DEL MAR, SAN CLEMENTE, 949 - 669 - 7273

are Society sees a future in doubling down on grandeur, vying to be the luxury default for steak dining in downtown San Clemente. Outpost No. 5 and the first in O.C. for San Diego Chef-Operator Brad Wise, this newcomer is vintage red tile Avenida Del Mar on the outside, glitzy Vegas on the inside. Dinner starts with a peek at mighty steaks aging behind glass in the lobby. Brawny cocktails and cosseting service recall Rat Pack lounging on the strip, while American red oak adds sweet-smoky aromas from the Santa Maria grill upstairs. Parker House rolls glossy with truffle butter and towers of chilled shellfish are classic openers for lavish platters that star beef from vaunted Snake River Farms. Sliced and arranged on a wooden turntable for easy sharing, steak boards include select sides and three assorted housecrafted sauces. Diners with more modest appetites should head straight for the dry-aged ribeye or wagyu tri-tip—8 ounces of medium rare pleasure. Or perhaps make a bar meal of the signature Old-Fashioned and supercharged steak tartare with salt vinegar chips. All desserts are made in-house—clearly Wolfe and team appreciate that their customers are often in splurge mode. The freshly baked butter cake with house-churned sour cream ice cream makes a standout finale.

Palmilla

3110 NEWPORT BLVD., NEWPORT BEACH, 949 - 220 - 1290

scrolled through months of Instagram posts of sun-burnished blondes and grinning bartenders sliding candy-colored cocktails across the bar before I could nab a table at Palmilla Cocina y Tequila last summer. Savvy owners Ron and Greg Newman of Baja Sharkeez quickly lured nonstop traffic to their new Peninsula offering—a sensuous, monochrome cantina with ocean breezes and minute parking lot. Complimentary warm flour tortillas and honey butter supply a welcome landing pad for the fiery pineappleserrano margarita, one from scores on the cocktail menu thick with prestige agave brands. Ceviches, taquitos, and street tacos come in shareable trios. The Los Cabos

Iceviche with seabass and green olives is smashing. Don’t miss the Caesar salad with sophisticated touches like shaved celery, marinated tomatoes, pepita dressing, and freshly fried caper cheese roll. Bodacious burritos are crowd pleasers, and for old-school delight, the crispy chicken machaca taco, short rib enchilada, and cheesy chile relleno spread delivers on all counts. The included red rice and refritos are distinctly flavorful. Mesquite grilling romances the Prime filet mignon, center cut with chipotle crema, mushrooms, and tomatillo rice. Add blackened Pacific prawns or lobster tail for the best priced surf-and-turf in town. Reservations are easier to land while summer crowds hibernate, so now’s the time to discover this local scene that’s never less than lively.

YOliver’s Trattoria

6511 QUAIL HILL PARKWAY, IRVINE, 949 - 418 - 8107

es, it’s only nine miles on Laguna Canyon Road from the original Osteria, but for us inlanders, skipping that irksome drive is reason to cheer the arrival of Oliver’s Trattoria in Irvine’s Quail Hill center. More reasons to applaud Chef-Owner Erik De Marchi’s upgrade to bigger, brighter digs include a full-fledged bar, a luminous dining room and glass-wrapped patio that overlooks a hidden fountain. At last, the Italy-born De Marchi has a pizza-capable kitchen, so he now o ers eight blistering-hot interpretations on a crisp, chewy crust with much character.

His rave-worthy homemade pastas include hefty oxtail pappardelle, agnolotti ricotta, and, of course, his acclaimed chittara cacio e pepe. A Niman Ranch pork tomahawk with apples and Swiss chard requires sharing if you, like me, can’t visit without also having his delicate eggplant Parm and superior beef carpaccio. Whole branzino baked in salt crust is the classic preparation, and roasted salmon under mustard sauce is rich, almost luxurious. Also good news, lunch is served daily and parking is more generous. If you’re wondering, Oliver is De Marchi’s son, born when he opened his Osteria five years ago.

Finney’s Crafthouse

949 - 484 - 8140

Finney’s at the White House both honors and updates the iconic PCH tavern where brothers Greg and Brad Finefrock once partied. Established in 1918 but shuttered in 2019, they snapped up the lease last year, converting it to the ninth of their thriving chain of upbeat watering holes scattered from SLO to Redlands. American pub grub elevated with scratch cooking is welcome ballast for endless craft beers and craft cocktails. This location’s beach-town energy lures carefree kids of all ages, particularly by day when pooches and youngsters join the scene. A deep bench of snacky starters includes

the bodacious Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese, luscious mini lobster rolls, and wa e bites with fried chicken on a pool of sriracha maple butter. Formidable burgers, sandos, and nachos o er scads of customizations. Beef fans, don’t miss the A5 wagyu ground ribeye burger with pepper jack. Midweek “hoppy” hour is two hours of serious discounts on the most popular drinks and eats, including Gary’s pepperoni flatbread beneath a sea of singed mini pepperoni cups atop four cheeses and housemade marinara. Believe the lipstick-red sign that proclaims, “Craft Beer Spoken Here”—the a able floor crew is fluent in dozens of rotating brews but also cocktails and 50-plus food o erings.

A SECOND KISS

SCR presents “Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical” 36 years after it premiered there as a play. by

LIZ GOLDNER

The romantic comedy by Craig Lucas premiered at South Coast Repertory Theatre in 1988. The play, about a couple embracing love and commitment while facing enormous obstacles, went on to Broadway in 1990 where it was nominated for a Tony Award and a Pulitzer Prize. This month, “Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical,” reinvented with a breathtaking score and lyrics by Daniel Messé and Sean Hartley, opens at SCR.

“ ‘Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical’ conveys the indomitable human spirit,” says SCR Artistic Director David Ivers, director of the musical. “It speaks to our hearts with a lifea rming story about people rising to challenges for love. As a salve for our times, it expresses how the unimaginable propels us to action.”

Lucas discusses his 36-year journey with the theater and the show.

How did “Prelude to a Kiss” affect your playwrighting career over the decades?

CRAIG LUCAS

I had o -o -Broadway success with my play, “Blue Window.” But the nationally recognized SCR was a big leap, producing “Prelude” and four other plays from the mid 1980s through the early ’90s.

PHOTOGRPH BY BRONWEN SHARP

Artistic directors and founders David Emmes and Martin Benson and the dramaturgs were well attuned to what I was doing—which was creating plays with a form of theatrical whimsy, verging on the surreal. But once the AIDS epidemic decimated my world, my plays turned toward darker terrain and were produced elsewhere—thanks in part to my SCR success.

How did “Prelude” evolve from a play to a musical?

In 2015, the talented lyricist Sean Hartley approached me about musicalizing it. I tend to avoid revisiting earlier work. But I introduced him to my friend, composer/lyricist Dan Messé, and we all found we were excited. So we reached out to SCR and they commissioned the musical’s development.

How did you change the script?

As with any adaptation of an existing work, we re-examined all aspects of the play in light of current realities, as so much in our world has changed since 1988. Back then, the character Rita was seen as neurotic for her overriding fears about the future. People found her funny and charming but also troubled; whereas today, her perceptions about the dangers we face—largely the same ones from the original play—might strike us as spoton. That funny, kooky young woman gripped with needless fear … now it’s like, “I’m with her.”

I was inspired to make changes in the script by my mentor, composer/ lyricist Stephen Sondheim, who made revisions in his material over the decades. Look at the many versions of his musical “Follies!”

The late Sondheim was your mentor?

I wrote him a letter when I was 23, asking about his unpublished songs, which I wanted to perform. We began to correspond, and he read my fi rst play and told me that I was a more exciting playwright than singer—not in a mean way but in a “You’ll be happier as a playwright”

(‘Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical’) speaks to our hearts with a lifeaffirming story about people rising to challenges for love.

way. He read everything that I wrote and saw my plays, which he approached with a critical eye. Through his patient explanation of technique, professional ethics, and rigor, a whole new world of playwrighting opened up—that I would never have had access to otherwise. I miss him!

How does adding music transform a play?

Adding music reinvents it and takes up a lot of real estate. If a play has 100 pages of dialogue, adding 15 to 20 songs leaves you with 50 pages for dialogue. So there needs to be concentration in the details to give the audience visceral experiences of the play’s events. Everything uttered and the characters’ behaviors have to lead toward the heightened moments of singing; what’s crystalized in the songs is often what people take away from the play. Including a song in the musical about the transformation of the character Julius—his sudden memory loss—takes on new meaning that the play could never reach. Music deepens the stakes.

Please talk about your inspirations for “Prelude.”

When something creative comes from you, it feels familiar because it reflects who you are. “Prelude” reflects the question of whether or not you really know another person when you love them, and the cost of fighting for that love over time! If you’re lucky enough to grow old, your love of life grows deeper with your attachment to the things and the people you love, all of which you ultimately have to bid goodbye to.

What can you say about the show’s message?

— DAVID IVERS SCR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

I don’t believe that plays, musicals, movies have messages. They are experiences, journeys that you go on. Let’s face it, no two people can agree on the “message” of “Hamlet.”

Why is SCR the perfect place for the musical’s premiere?

South Coast Repertory commissioned the original play. They’ve been extremely caring and protective of this musical project. God love them.

LEFT: THE ORIGINAL PRODUCTION OF “PRELUDE TO A KISS” AT SCR IN 1988

TOP: SCR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR DAVID IVERS

ELI JOSHUA ÁDE

SIMPLY MARVELOUS

Chapman alum Kyana F. Davidson is a director of production and development at Marvel Studios, having worked on films including “Black Widow” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” In January, she shared the story of her life and career on Orange Coast’s podcast, “The Zest.” by Chelsea Raineri

Davidson describes her current role at Marvel Studios as “guiding the ship.” “We’re constantly driving towards (the answer to) what is the best story this can be,” she says. During filming, she watches the monitors, ensuring that each scene is what she and the team envisioned, or noting how it could be improved.

Born in England, Davidson moved with her family to the U.S. when she was just 16 days old, eventually landing in Irvine. At Chapman University, she majored in communication studies. “I wasn’t the kid who was like, ‘I’m going to be a doctor one day,’ ” she says. “It was kind of figuring it out as I went.” After graduating, she ran into a friend who was about to get promoted at Marvel, leaving an opening in the company’s business and legal affairs department. “They needed someone to keep the department on track,” she says. “(The role) was an assistant to the vice president of business affairs and the chief council.”

Davidson started the position in February 2015. The job helped her understand movie production and she knew she wanted to do something on the creative side. “It’s all connected, everything this company does. Everybody is feeding into some element

It is truly (about) being confident in yourself and building yourself up when you think that you might not belong in a room or that you shouldn’t raise your hand.

of moviemaking. I got to really learn Marvel as a company.” She applied to be an assistant to Victoria Alonso, the head of post-production at the time, and got the job, which lasted almost three years. “I wanted to become a producer and I was going to figure out a way to do it.”

Eventually, she applied and was accepted to work on “Black Widow” as a manager of production and development. “We were doing the scene with the family sitting down for dinner,” Davidson says. “We had talked about that scene so much in development and it was something that we were always like, ‘Is this going to work? Are they going to feel like a family?’ And then they sat down and played off one another and it was just like, ‘Oh, wow! This couldn’t be more perfect.’ It was funny and emotional in all the right ways, and it just really worked. The cast and the director really brought it to life.”

Looking back on her tenure at Marvel, she recalls her biggest “pinch-me” moment happening during the filming of Tony Stark’s funeral in “Avengers: End Game” while she was still working as an assistant. “I remember getting there and realizing the amount of people that were there in one moment,” Davidson says. “You start seeing all the cast come in—cast that I as a Marvel fan have watched over the years. I just remember standing there and being like, ‘Wow, why am I here? What am I doing here? This is so wild to work at Marvel and see this happen.’ It was a moment in Marvel history. And I felt very happy to be there; very blessed to be there.”

A HELPING HAND

PROFILING LOCAL NONPROFITS & CHARITIES

MISSION

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Hungry Games 7.0

September 12th, 2024

6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

For the seventh straight year, Bracken’s Kitchen is thrilled to host its signature culinary event benefiting the less fortunate and food insecure in southern California. “The Hungry Games 7.0,” will feature talented, local chefs creating their trademark dishes and competing in the organization’s very own 15,000 square foot kitchen facility in Garden Grove. Guests will enjoy selections of chef’s creations including appetizers, small bites, sweets, beer, and wine, and the opportunity to act as the judges in the friendly, culinary competition, participate in silent and live asks, and learn more about the great work to which Bracken’s Kitchen is devoted.

BRACKEN’S KITCHEN

Bracken’s Kitchen endeavors to eliminate barriers to fresh food. We create delicious meals to nourish the body and mind; the foundation for a healthy and productive life for those in need. Our innovative approach provides well-balanced meals made from food supplies through our rescued food program at no cost to the client. In addition to utilizing rescued food to feed the under-served in our communities, Bracken’s Kitchen combats the cycle of poverty through our Culinary Training Program and workforce development.

Through food rescue, culinary training and our community feeding program we are committed to rescuing, re-purposing and restoring both food and lives.

WHY DONATE

Your generous partnership allows us to continue to combat food insecurity and the cycle of poverty one tasty meal at a time.

13941 Nautilus Drive, Garden Grove, CA 92843 714-554-1923 | brackenskitchen.org

ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY

For a century, Orange County United Way has been a beacon of hope, dedicating our work to building stronger, successful communities. 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, 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 residents with health and human service resources.

Last year, through our programs, funded partners, and community outreach, we helped over 676,000 people in Orange County. Additionally, our 211OC key service supported nearly 500,000 requests for assistance from residents. Throughout 2024, we are commemorating 100 years of impact in our community via our Journey to 100 centennial celebration Join us and let’s create lasting change together by taking care of one another for the next 100 years. That’s The OC Way!

To learn more or discover how you can help, visit UnitedWayOC.org/journey Orange County United Way is a standalone, independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit 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

UPCOMING EVENTS

2024 Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast

Invest in the Lives of Local Families

Thursday, May 16, 2024

7:30 to 10:00 a.m.

Hyatt Regency Irvine | Irvine, CA

Be a part of this inspirational morning, focused on helping local women and their families build toward self-sufficiency, investing in the next generation, and transforming lives in our community by addressing the ever-evolving challenges our residents face. Don’t miss this once-in-a-century celebration as we attempt a new community-impact world record in honor of Orange County United Way’s centennial. A warm thank you to our Champion Sponsor, BMO.

To learn more or reserve your seat, visit WPFBreakfast.org

Journey to 100 Golf Tournament

Tee off for a good cause!

Monday, September 9, 2024

The Huntington Club Huntington Beach, CA

Don’t miss tee time at our Journey to 100 golf tournament fundraiser! Part of our centennial celebration, this prestigious event will bring golf enthusiasts and philanthropists together for an impactful and entertaining afternoon. Funds raised support our community-based work to help our neighbors in need.

For more information, contact Gaby Mulder at GabyM@UnitedWayOC.org or 949.263.6157

Centennial Gala

Celebrating 100 Years of Community Impact

Saturday, November 2, 2024

ARTIC | Anaheim, CA

You’re invited to the event of the century as we celebrate our 100th anniversary in style at the picturesque ARTIC in Anaheim. Co-chaired by Stephen G. and Regina Oswald. Come raise a glass to caring for our community The OC Way!

For more information, contact Gaby Mulder at GabyM@UnitedWayOC.org or 949.263.6157

Volunteers from local company, United Healthcare, participated in a campus beautification project with Orange County United Way at Killybrooke Elementary School in Costa Mesa, creating this colorful mural to inspire kindness.

Local families came together for an impactful Family Volunteer Day where they assembled holiday food boxes for OC residents in need.

A HELPING HAND

ORANGEWOOD FOUNDATION

For over forty years, Orangewood Foundation has been at the forefront of creating a brighter future for Orange County’s youth through innovative programs. Adapting to evolving needs, we’ve developed groundbreaking initiatives in health, housing, life skills, employment, and education. While each service addresses distinct needs, they’re interconnected through trauma-informed and community-driven approaches. With our unwavering support, these resilient individuals become the architects of their own success, laying the groundwork for stability and triumph in the face of ever-evolving challenges.

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.

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

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF ORANGE COUNTY

Since 1983, Second Harvest has been serving those struggling to put food on the table for themselves and their families. Our partner network includes houses of worship, schools, after-school programs, colleges and universities, senior centers, shelters for the unhoused, soup kitchens and transitional housing facilities, with sites at 362 locations throughout O.C. Today, our focus is providing not just food, but nutritious food including locally grown produce from our two farms, for all who need it in our community.

MISSION

In collaboration with our partners, we provide dignifi ed, equitable and consistent access to nutritious food, creating a foundation for community health.

8014 Marine Way Irvine CA 92618 949.653.2900 feedoc.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

OrangewoodFEST

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort

OrangewoodFEST is about family, community, and giving back.

You and your family can enjoy a free day of fun and activities. Not only will you have an opportunity to enjoy music, great food from local vendors, and fun activities, but you’ll also be celebrating a great cause.

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.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Food From The Bar

June 1-30, 2024

Second Harvest’s 8th annual Food

From The Bar campaign with the OC legal community.

feedoc.org/food-from-the-bar

3rd Annual Walk To Feed OC

Saturday, March 15, 2025

Tanaka Farms in Irvine feedoc.org/events

WHY DONATE

Hunger and food and nutritional insecurity are invisible in our community. Yet, each month on average, Second Harvest serves over 400,000 neighbors in need in Orange County. Your support is critical to our mission and meeting the need.

A HELPING HAND

TILLY’S LIFE CENTER (TLC)

Tilly’s Life Center (TLC) is a guiding light for today’s youth, providing them with the necessary support and resources to conquer challenges. TLC’s “I Am Me” program fosters a safe and interactive environment for youth to embrace their unique identities and achieve their full potential. TLC believes that every individual can achieve greatness, and by empowering them with essential life skills and coping techniques, TLC is helping to cultivate a generation of leaders and changemakers who will shape the future.

MISSION

Our mission is to inspire today’s youth to reach their full potential as productive, kind, happy, and responsible individuals.

WHY DONATE

Without proper support and resources, youth may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms that can have long-lasting adverse effects on their physical and mental health.

17 Pasteur, Irvine, CA 92618 | 949.484.8464 | tillyslifecenter.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

27th Annual Stars & Stripes BenefitingTilly’s Life Center

Thursday, June 27 - Sunday, June 30, 2024 | Hilton Los Cabos, Mexico

This multi-day event will feature stellar live music performances, all-inclusive hotel and airfare, delicious food and drinks, nightly themed parties, exciting silent and live auctions, as well as your choice of world-class golf, fishing, or spa treatments.

Tilly’s Life Center’s (TLC) 10th Annual “I Am Giving” Gala

Saturday, November 16, 2024

Hilton Waterfront Resort, Huntington Beach

Top notch drinks, food, auctions, and more; help TLC equip teens with skills that support a healthy and productive life.

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.

MISSION

UPCOMING EVENTS

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 gala, Under the Tuscan Sun, celebrating Latham & Watkins LLP, Steve Hittleman, and Michael A. Morris.

Fall Luncheon: Igniting Social Change

October 11, 2024 | Lido House Newport Beach

We invite you to join us for our Fall Luncheon: Igniting Social Change. This event will include a keynote speaker focusing on the particularly timely topic of mental health and trauma as it relates to relationship violence

WHY DONATE

5540 Trabuco Road Irvine CA, 92620 949.737.5242 humanoptions.org

CHILDREN’S BUREAU OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Children’s Bureau of Southern California is a private nonprofi t that has been serving the community since 1904. We provide services to nearly 50,000 children and parents annually who are facing serious stressors like financial strain, housing insecurity, and mental health struggles - stressors that research has shown can make it harder for families to address children’s needs.

Your donation supports at-risk children in Orange County by:

• Preventing child maltreatment

• Providing behavioral health services

• Facilitating foster care, adoptions and related services

• Creating place-based community initiatives

Children’s Bureau’s mission is to protect vulnerable children through prevention, treatment and advocacy.

WHY DONATE

Your donation strengthens at-risk families in Orange County communities so every child can thrive. Give today at all4kids.org/donate

515 North Cabrillo Park, Suite 100, Santa Ana, CA 92701 | 855.685.HOPE (4673) | all4kids.org

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

HOPE IN BOX

Build hope for vulnerable children and families in our community by hosting a fundraiser with your family and friends. Celebrate your birthday, host a wine tasting, organize a pickleball challenge…get creative with whatever inspires you. You’ll have tons of fun AND you’ll be helping a whole lot of children thrive in strong families and communities. Children’s Bureau will provide the website and tools to help you succeed.

To create your own birthday or special event fundraiser (online or inperson) to support children, please email danaboyd@all4kids.org

Charitable Events CALENDAR

APRIL 2024

11 Pickleball

16 Women’s

16

20

28

44

MAY

JUNE 2024

1-30

Food From The Bar

10

Rivals United For A Kure Kure It Cancer Research Pelican Hill Golf Club kureit.org/rivals-cup

22

Wine Celebration Roosters Orange County Argyros Plaza, Segerstrom Center for the Arts ocfwc.com

27-30

27th Annual Stars & Stripes Tilly’s Life Center Hilton Los Cabos Mexico tillyslifecenter.org

29

Night of Joy Jesse Rees Foundation Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach negu.org/nightofjoy

JULY 2024

20

Pipeline to a Cure Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa pipelinetoacure.org

21

CHOC Walk in the Park CHOC and CHOC at Mission Hospitals Disneyland Resort chocwalk.org

SEPTEMBER 2024

12

The Hungry Games 7.0 Bracken’s Kitchen brackenskitchen.org

13

Romance of the Mission Benefit Gala Mission San Juan Capistrano Missionsjc.com

21

Annual BBQ & Family Faire The Shea Center, San Juan Capistrano sheacenter.org

OCTOBER 2024

11

Fall Luncheon: Igniting Social Change Human Options

Lido House Newport Beach humanoptions.org

9

Harvesters Fashion Show & Luncheon

Second Harvest Food Bank feedoc.org

NOVEMBER 2024

2

Centennial Gala

Orange County United Way ARTIC, Anaheim gabym@unitedwayoc.org

16

“I Am Giving” Gala

Tilly’s Life Center Hilton Waterfront Resort, Huntington Beach tillyslifecenter.org

3

9

38th

Radiant

9

Journey to 100 Golf Tournament

Orange County United Way The Huntington Club, Huntington Beach gabym@unitedwayoc.org

MARCH 2025

15

3rd Annual Walk To Feed OC Tanaka Farms in Irvine feedoc.org/events

AT TACOTUESDAY.COM

YOU CAN FIND TACOS BY CITY OR MAKE

TACOS AT HOME, HOWEVER YOU WANT TACOS, WE GOT YOU.

DINING GUIDE

ORANGE COUNTY’S DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR RESTAURANT NEWS & MINI REVIEWS

PRICING $$$ $50 and up $$ Less than $50 $ mostly under $25

Denotes Critic’s Choice Restaurant

ALISO VIEJO

OPAH

Trendy and sleek, this neighborhood hottie oozes a hip energy that attracts single minglers and ’burban scene-hunters in search of artfully prepared California cuisine. Choose from a varied, creative menu with an array of signature items. Monster martinis keep the mood lively. 26851 Aliso Creek Road, 949-360-8822. $$

WEBB’S GRAINWORKS

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2024

A humble business park hides this remarkable indie newcomer—a kitchen, brewery, distillery, and bottle shop under one roof. Pub grub with a crafty spin complements fresh brews of every style and worthy cocktails built with house-branded spirits. Look for terrific wagyu smash burgers and robust sandwiches on house-baked breads, latkis smothered by toppings, and colossal dessert sundaes. Maximalist decor of the cavernous venue features vintage pieces collected by automotive businessman Lew Webb, father of owner Jeremy Webb. 7 Journey, Aliso Viejo, webbsgrainworks.com $$

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 $$

MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE

Steaks—including the 24-ounce porterhouse and center-cut filet mignon—are wet-aged 23 to 25 days. Fill your plate with giant sides of broccoli and hash browns, but leave a little room: There’s chocolate cake for dessert. Killer bar-bite deals nightly from 4:30 to closing. 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., 714-621-0101. See South Coast Metro location. $$$

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. Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$

THE RANCH

Oozing ambition, this upscale venue boasts a yowza saloon and a fine dining room so serious about sourcing, it maintains a private farm in the nearby foothills. A whopping menu of decidedly seasonal American fare boasts both uptown and downhome dishes. Live entertainment and dancing keep the deluxe honkytonk hopping on weekends. 1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$

ROY’S

Chef-Partner Bert Agor, Jr. adds dishes to Roy Yamaguchi’s signature collection of Hawaiian-Asian favorites. From sushi to dessert, the accent is on fresh flavors. This location is Convention Centerand Disneyland-close. 321 W. Katella Ave., 714-7767697. $$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Sizzling Prime steaks custom-aged 21 days are served topped with big pats of butter. Founder Ruth Fertel grew up in New Orleans so there are crab cakes, Gulf shrimp, and sweet potato casserole. 2041 S. Harbor Blvd., 714-750-5466. See Irvine location. $$$

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 spin-off menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

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.

AN INTRIGUING PLOT | THE PLOT

Thoughtful creations and stylish presentations are hallmarks of The Plot , the new plant-based destination that took over the yurt-like Native Foods space at the Camp. Eco-champions Davin and Jessica Waite own two other locations of The Plot—one of which earned best-new-restaurant accolades in San Diego in 2020. The couple has won numerous awards for their regenerative business practices. Umlauts on menu items denote meat-like ingredients developed with plants and prepared in-house. Among winning starters are a grilled cabbage with pink peppercorn sauce, lentil caviar, and kimchi and the sushi-roll-like Chronic, starring lion’s mane mushroom

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. $$

cräb plus spicy tüna and avocado. Spicy aguachile is a frequent special; don’t pass it up. The most popular entree is a meatless shepherd’s pie, but the biscuits and gravy with fried chickën, and the carrotfish and chips, also have their fans. Traditional olive cakes inspire the pre y Plot Cake dessert; highlights of the biodynamic wine list include the Tessier Electric Ladyland Orange Blend. Working alongside Chefs Davin and Travis Roe in the kitchen is Chef de Cuisine Bryan Balzer, late of Riviera in San Clemente. Produce comes from Black Sheep Farms in Tustin, the Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, and the restaurant’s garden in Oceanside. 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-852-3181, theplotrestaurant.com — BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

CEDAR CREEK INN

A gorgeous patio, welcoming lounge, and attractive dining room lend upscale charisma to this handsome eatery with an appealing menu that has something for everyone. Coffee-shop favorites get deluxe attention. Salads, sandwiches, and desserts are particularly strong. Dependably skilled service. 20 Pointe Drive, 714-255-5600. $$

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. See Irvine location. $$

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. Topnotch 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 or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service. Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with charcuterie platters. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714592-3122. $$$

CORONA DEL MAR

608 DAHLIA

Chef-Owner Jessica Roy transformed the alfresco gem inside iconic Sherman Library & Gardens with a new name and joyous take on seasonal fare. Dreamy salads are impeccably fresh, pastas imaginative, and vegetarian tacos are a signature dish in the making. Effusive wine cocktails. 2647 E. Coast Highway, 949-220-7229. Lunch only. $$

THE BUNGALOW

Comfy booths, a lively bar with stiff martinis, and lots of premium wines by the glass lure diners to this dinner house darling with the feel of a Craftsman home. Prime beef is king, but you also can get a huge Aussie lobster tail. Desserts are classic berries and cream, and chocolate souffle cake, so you can concentrate on your surf ’n’ turf. Lunch is hearty sandwiches and huge, high-quality salads. Just save us a seat on the charming patio. 2441 E. Coast Highway, 949-673-6585. $$$

CDM RESTAURANT

The successful team behind much-loved A Restaurant pounced on the defunct Crow Bar, retooling it with scraped light-wood floors, peacock-blue velvet booths, leather chairs, and a free-standing, alwaysbusy bar. The kitchen takes on seasonal, contemporary American fare. Think a trio of unexpectedly sublime pizzas. Ethereal Parker House rolls. A killer Niman Ranch pork chop. 2325 E. Coast Highway, 949-287-6600. $$$

EL CHOLO

It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $

FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS

This beguiling patio is Chef-Owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese

Hi-Time Wine Cellars

Hi-Time’s

Davidoff

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. $$$

QUIET WOMAN

Perpetually packed with locals for decades, the Q-Dub (as it’s known) pours mean drinks and notable wines by the glass, and keeps a teensy kitchen busy cranking out more-than-decent American grub such as filet mignon sliders and crab cakes, at prices that reflect the ZIP code. Most nights, a house band cranks up the decibels and enlivens the vibe. 3224 E. Coast Highway, 949-640-7440. $$

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

2145 EATS

Santa Ana native and Pizzeria Ortica veteran Eduardo Salcedo brings an artisan mindset and Japanese aesthetic to this Neapolitan-style pizza joint in a cleverly repurposed auto shop. Aromas of almond-wood fire whet the appetite for his finely crafted pies and imaginative toasts on house-baked shokupan, Japan’s beloved breakfast loaf. Sit at the white marble bar or under umbrellas on the patio to enjoy bresaola and burrata salad with pickled fennel, or hyper-tender octopus with diced potato, charred scallions, and squid ink mayo. Star dessert: horchata tiramisu. 2145 Placentia Ave., 949-8735853. Beer and wine. $$

ARC

The welcoming lair features a 15-seat bar overlooking the open kitchen and hardworking oven. It’s an audacious concept that lures a varied, loyal crowd. Winners include roasted pork cheek, a gorgeous wedge salad, and unique steak cuts. The pizza boutique serves posh pies topped with the likes of blue cheese, short rib, and basil, or roast duck, romesco, and olives. 3321 Hyland Ave., 949-500-5561. $$$

BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2022

Chef-Owner Jeoffrey Offer—native of Toulouse, France, and son of a butcher—brought his pandemic dream to life with this intimate spot focused on steaks, chops, and scratch sausages. Eight specialty sauces are house-made to suit meats and starters. Wood-grilled options range from a mighty fine burger to a grand aged ribeye for two. The tidy bar boasts a kitchen view, and the patio offers a quiet alternative to the lively hubbub of a packed house.

Weekend brunch stars Offer’s distinct take on croque madame and steak and eggs. There’s also a succinct wine list. 3321 Hyland Ave., 714-714-0662. $$$

THE COUNTRY CLUB

The 175-seat “social club” is a massive reset of Pierce Street Annex, a long-notorious Costa Mesa watering hole. VIP treatment without a membership fee is the concept partners Mario Marovic and Andrew Gabriel are leveraging, complete with an adultsonly setting with Gatsby-era glam. High-class cocktails are not fussy but lean on house-made syrups and mixers. 330 E. 17th St., 949-281-2582. $$

DESCANSO

Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$

HABANA

Flickering candles light the way through a high-ceilinged dining room, convivial bar, and lush patio at The Lab’s enduring Cuban hang for date nights and late nights. Most of the fare sticks solidly to classics, such as roast chicken and ropa vieja, but the appetizer side is loaded with winners. Updates include a lavish, all-you-can-eat brunch with live island music and an array of delicious baked goodies. Intimate confines make reservations a smart move. 2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176. See Irvine location. $$$

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. Dinner only. 1835 Newport Blvd., 714519-0775 $$

IZAKAYA HACHI

A handsome, modern izakaya from the owners of Manpuku, Hachi is a boisterous, convivial gem. The charcoal-grilled skewers shine, including the chicken meatball and chicken thigh. Expect a little bit of everything here: gloriously marbled beef, fresh oysters, composed salads, fried chicken, and unique pressed sushi. 3033 Bristol St., 657-231-6566. Dinner only. $

LA CAVE

Retro-hip, if unintentionally so, Eastside Costa Mesa’s ’60s Rat Pack lair of a joint has changed little more than the prices over these many years. Stiff drinks, thick steaks, and live music keep the leather booths full, one floor below ground via a tired elevator. This is the place to feed your craving for Sinatra and Elvis tribute acts. 1695 Irvine Ave., 949-646-7944. $$$

MESA

At this high-style hipster hang with a retractable roof, expect shareable dishes that play by the seasons and don’t shy away from intense flavors. Highlights include mussels sizzled in cast iron and fried cicchetti olives. An interesting, value-packed wine list beckons, as do inspired artisan cocktails. 725 Baker St., 714-557-6700. $$$

PITFIRE ARTISAN PIZZA

The first O.C. shop from this thriving L.A.-based chain is not your nonna’s pizzeria. Upbeat and

come-as-you-are casual, it’s a Cal-Ital original. A menu packed with classic and seasonal wood-fired pies, pastas, and salads has wide appeal, so this retooled Marie Callender’s stays packed with fans of all ages. Check out its backdoor speakeasy, Pie Society. 353 E. 17th St., 949-313-6333. $

PLUMS CAFE

Fresh, high-quality cooking shaped by the Pacific Northwest lures locals to this strip-center lunch and weekend brunch favorite for creative eats such as smoked salmon hash and hazelnut flapjacks. 369 E. 17th St., 949-722-7586. Breakfast and lunch. $$

SOCIAL

Social brought hipster dining to a westside strip mall, opening the area to considerable gentrification. The venue surprises with sophisticated cooking and a nicely refreshed menu, especially now that inaugural Executive Chef Jeffrey Boullt is back with his crave-able takes on dinner and Sunday brunch eats, complete with bottomless mimosas. Cheers to happy hour all day on Wednesdays. Signature items include lamb empanadas, wagyu beef tri-tip, and craft cocktails. 512 W. 19th St., 949-6422425. Weekend brunch. $$

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 ultra-seasonal. 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. 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 949-470-2298. Closed Monday. $$

CYPRESS

CAFÉ HIRO

Hiding out in Cypress, Chef-Owner Hiro Ohiwa caters to a devoted following who admires his formal French training and Japanese aesthetic. He applies it to a quirky lineup of seasonal specials where anything goes—from wild mushroom curry to osso bucco—all at prices too fair to be true. No wonder the place is always packed. 10509 Valley View St., 714-527-6090. Beer and wine. $

DANA POINT

ENOSTEAK

The coast’s most intimate salon for ultrapremium steaks is discreetly tucked just off the lobby at this esteemed resort. Beef—be it grass-fed, grain-fed, bone-in, or dry-aged—is the star of a pithy-if-pricey menu that’s unabashedly loyal. Lavish compound butters to enjoy alongside steaks are a house signature. Polished service and often enchanting desserts. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949240-2000. $$$

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. $$$

JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN

Big and welcoming, this 225-seat harborside venue is a utility player thanks to a broad menu of modern comfort fare. It’s a handy call for patio lunches, upbeat happy hours, hearty dinners, and bossy brunches. Locals swarm the upbeat space, noshing on mighty burgers, fried chicken, and prime rib. Desserts are fantastically huge, if ordinary. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-388-8900. $$

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. $$$

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

AU LAC

A miraculous menu of traditional Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, without meat or fish, comprises the self-described “humanese” cuisine at this New Agey bistro. A creamy fish-shaped loaf of tofu is unforgettable; so are the spring rolls. Even desserts are healthful, with fruity selections such as Rainbow in the Sky Pie. 16563 Brookhurst St., 714-418-0658. $$

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, $$$

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. $$$

HOPSCOTCH TAVERN

The affable downtown watering hole is unabashedly keen on booze. Artisan cocktails that feature 140 whiskeys and a choice of 80 craft beers are the axis for a limited menu big on brawny proteins, savory carbs, and fried finger foods. The clever revamp of Fullerton’s 1918 Mission Revival-style Pacific Electric Railway Station feels accessible and low-key. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-871-2222. $$

KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN

Born in the crucible of the pandemic, this halal bistro serves flavorful kebabs, curries, and street

DON’T THINK. JUST EAT. | SUGARFISH

Based on the philosophies of cofounder Tom Nozawa and his father, Kazunori Nozawa, Sugarfish opens its first location outside of Los Angeles and New York in Corona del Mar.

The elder Nozawa, the famously gru and exacting chef at L.A.’s now-gone Sushi Nozawa, helped popularize omakase in the U.S. The family’s sushi approach involves meticulous sourcing, crisp nori, and loosely packed warm rice. Both intimate and bustling, the 40-seat restaurant centers on three “Trust Me” tasting menus, $25 to $46, and the more elaborate “Don’t Think. Just Eat.” menu, $59, presenting a sashimi

snacks alongside wood-fired wagyu steaks. Creator and Executive Chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in fine-dining kitchens. Khan Saab has the best-stocked alcohol-free bar in O.C. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$

SUMMIT HOUSE

Set high above Fullerton’s northern city limits, this imposing Tudor manor house offers a sparkling city-lights view at night, though the attractive grounds are pretty by day, too. The American menu offers few surprises; British-style prime rib and oak-grilled Skuna Bay salmon are reliable. Polished service brings back plenty of special-occasion diners. The cozy tavern bar is popular for light

course, seven orders of nigiri, and two hand rolls. Generous portions translate to high-quality bang for your sushi buck. A la carte choices include New Zealand sea bream, Hokkaido sea scallops, and “Nozawa-style” shrimp with toasted sesame; among hand- and cut-roll options is one featuring blue and Dungeness crab. Limited availability cards at each table might propose pink lobster nigiri or a three-style toro tasting. On the “Trust Me” front, the Sushi Nozawa Group takes a leading role in a project at Loyola Marymount University aimed at reducing the mislabeling of seafood at sushi restaurants. 2600 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, 949-652-7405, sugarfishsushi.com —

meals and happy hour. 2000 E. Bastanchury Road, 714-671-4111. $$$

GARDEN GROVE

NOVA KITCHEN & BAR

This glamorous sleeper is a terrific dinner choice for distinctive fare that nods to Japan, Korea, and China. The handsome 35-seat lanai covered patio is beyond fine. Executive Chef Abel Vargas oversees a sizeable menu that also includes showy sushi and top-shelf cocktails. Do consider the tuna tartare, corn tempura, or coriander-braised short rib. Genteel service. 12361 Chapman Ave., 714696-0888. $$$

HUNTINGTON BEACH

BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS

The tourist crowd is mixed with locals year-round at this second-floor spot with a magnetic beach view. Chef Jesus Munoz’s photo-ready dishes deliver the satisfaction that builds a fan base for Prime Akaushi steaks and huge Australian lobster tails at the expected steep prices. Attentive service always makes a fat tab go down easier. Garage parking is a huge plus during summers in Surf City. 300 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-960-0996. $$$

BLUEGOLD

Pacific City’s glassy, glossy 230-seat venue delivers the paint-box sunsets sought by tourists,

date-nighters, and special-occasion splurgers looking to dine with a dazzling view. Alas, Blackhouse Hospitality’s first O.C. effort tackles a broad menu of American fare, from steaks to steam kettles to Nea-style pizza—even oysters and charcuterie. Solid bets include pizzas, lamb meatballs, and duck confit Milanese. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0038. $$$

CUCINA ALESSÁ

Despite the exit of its founding chef, this two-story trattoria maintains a solid following thanks to a veteran crew at ease with the original menu and recipes for house-made pastas, feather-light pizzas, and breakfast omelets. 520 Main St., 714-969-2148. See Newport Beach location. $$

DUKE’S

Jammed on summer weekends, this pierside hangout is named for Hawaiian surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku. Grilled fish and steaks are fine for Saturday nights, but the kitchen excels at tasty fish tacos, macadamia nut hummus, and burgers with Kennebec chips. Monday’s happy hour is from 3 to 8 p.m. 317 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-6446. $$

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. $$

RED TABLE

The “red” in Red Table, Huntington Harbour mall’s neighborhood tavern, stands for “relax, eat, drink.” The creative menu of American eats is big on highcarb snacks, savory share plates, and strapping proteins that feel right in a welcoming setting accented with quirky design elements and a red communal table. 16821 Algonquin St., 714-846-4700. Beer and wine. $$

SESSIONS

Surf City is the ideal spot for the second “West Coast deli,” this time across from the sand. Terrific sand-

wiches that eat like a meal for two are gourmet creations, meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. From-scratch soups, sides, and dressings. A surfer ethos extends to hearty breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 414 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-594-3899. Beer and wine. See Irvine and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

WATERTABLE

Here’s a rare bird, a hotel restaurant in a tourist resort that the locals love for lots of reasons. Progressive takes on global dishes, tip-top craft cocktails, copious happy hours, and the steady hand of longtime chef Manfred Lassahn keep this venue on point. We return just for the white cheddar and thyme biscuits with seasonal butter. Hyatt Regency, 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-4776. $$$

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. $$

Peri-Peri Chicken Pops, at Mozambique

Spicy Tuna Steak, at Bodega Laguna

Greek Lamb Chops, at Rumari

Herb’s BBQ Burger, at Skyloft

DINING GUIDE

BENNY+MARY’S

NEW This latest venture from Toast Restaurant Group breathes life into the long-vacant but primo Irvine address with its plush library vibe and fiercely original cocktails. From grilled cheese dumplings to savory vegan meatloaf, the eclectic lunch and dinner menus include dishes that feel novel and taste of a super creative kitchen. Expect brunch service to launch soon, just in time for sunny feasts on the luxe, sprawling patio that’s dog-friendly. 18420 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 714439-1733. $$$

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. $$$

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN

This addition to the restaurant family owned by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni is an inviting casa with a menu of modern Mexican fare boosted by commendable new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole to name a few. The indoor-meets-outdoor patio by designer Thomas Schoos is a fine upgrade of the Brea flagship. Weekly specials add value and excitement. Impressive tequila menu. 13126 Jamboree Road, 714-408-7819. See Brea location. $$

CUCINA ENOTECA

This 285-seat operation from San Diego’s Urban Kitchen Group offers two sprawling patios and a huge, lively dining room with bar and wine minimarket, and the scene oozes chic with scads of handmade furnishings for sale. The Cal-Ital menu is equally large and inventive, from spreads in Mason jars and salumi platters to house-made pastas. Particularly good for large parties. 532 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-861-2222. See Newport Beach location. $$

HABANA

We waited decades for this glamorous Habana sibling, and it was worth it—a sprawling 300-seat compound that co-opts Cuba’s frozen-in-time splendor. A roomy patio open to the sky is made intimate by high walls and lots of beautiful props and vignettes, with alcoves dedicated to house pastries and coffees. Despite the impressive scale, the menu hews tightly to the focused offerings at its Costa Mesa original. 708 Spectrum Center Drive, 949419-0100. See Costa Mesa location. $$$

JA JIAOZI

It’s all about handmade dumplings here. They grace every table, anchoring meals rounded out with other hot and cold dishes. First-timers, ask your able server for help. Top picks include steamed Flaming Hot and boiled Signature jiaozi, along with refreshing tofu-skin salad. Top-notch shrimp fried rice is a winner, too. Watch the masters at work from a five-seat bar. 13776 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714-786-8999. $$

JAVIER’S CANTINA & GRILL

Sipping margaritas made with premium tequilas and fresh lime juice, and dining on steaks or seafood amid the glamorous resort-style decor is like a little trip to Baja. You’ll find combos, salsa with a kick, and creamy guacamole, but go for the signature spinach enchiladas in an emerald-green pasilla sauce. The Irvine Spectrum location is buzzy and

busy. 536 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-872-2101. See Newport Coast location. $$

LITTLE SISTER

This Irvine Spectrum spot is an XXL bistro to older sister shop LSXO. Chef-Partner Tim Vuong musters a team that pulls off a bigger menu, bigger digs, and a bigger profile with ease. Find proven faves—the overstuffed Viet crepe and the Shaky Shaky Beef— plus new lunch porridges and bánh mìs streaming out of the kitchen to a bustling dining room. Vintage rap tracks and a crackerjack bar keep the vibe lively. 896 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-800-8798. $$$

MEIZHOU DONGPO

Good seating, engaged service, and touches of elegance elevate this classy Sichuan dining room, a retool of a 6,000-square-foot Marie Callender’s in bustling Culver Plaza. Access is easy, and plentiful parking is free. Beyond that, it’s all about the Beijing-style roast duck (whole, $77; half, $40), meticulously sliced into petals of tender meat crowned with crackling amber skin, for rolling into thin crepes. Weeks of aging, drying, and lacquering coax out heady flavors. Spicy values include dan dan noodles and country-style sliced pork. 15363 Culver Drive, 949-433-5686. Beer and wine. $$$

NORTH ITALIA

Rich, intense flavors, discerning techniques, and a modern mindset make North Italia, from Fox Restaurant Concepts, a chain that easily beats some indies out there. Sunny by day and stylish at night, the voluminous room’s high ceiling and open plan manages to feel more intimate than its 280- to 300-seat capacity, though it’s perpetually packed. Aim for the artisan-style pizzas, fresh house-made pastas, short rib with polenta, farm salad, and bombolini dessert. 2957 Michelson Drive, 949-629-7060. $$

OLIVER’S TRATTORIA

NEW Chef-Owner Erik di Marchi’s upscale addition to his original Osteria in Laguna Canyon offers many upgrades—a full bar, a roomy and luminous dining room, and a glassed-enclosed patio overlooking a secret fountain. This kitchen is pizza-capable, serving eight variations nightly. An expanded menu boasts rave-worthy homemade pastas, including oxtail pappardelle and agnolotti ricotta, as well as signature dishes like chittara cacio e pepe and Niman Ranch pork tomahawk. Lunch served daily and ample parking only add to the appeal of this Italian newbie. 6511 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine, 949-418-8107. $$$

PAUL MARTIN’S AMERICAN GRILL

A major player at the Spectrum in Irvine, this inviting 295-seat venue offers a plain-spoken, single-page carte of highly seasonal American dishes. 534 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-453-1144. $$

PORCH & SWING

BEST NEW

RESTAURANT 2021

This delightful indie serves a “taste of Charleston” starring original riffs on American classics and cocktails by Andrew Parish. Must-try dishes include roasted pork jowl over grits, amazing creamless creamed corn, and gorgeous salads. House-baked breads are a strength, too. The patio is lovely. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$

PUESTO

San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options for O.C. fans. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oaxacan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from organic,

non-GMO, blue corn masa. The cheese is especially brilliant on vegetarian tacos. Always ask about the monthly taco special. The Park Place center location’s indoor-meets-outdoor venue is intimate and color-splashed. Park Place, 3311 Michelson Drive, 949-608-7272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. Anaheim location at 1040 W. Katella Ave., 714-294-0362 and Huntington Beach location at 7821 Edinger Ave., 714-316-0151. $$

ROBATA WASA

From the wizards behind popular Wasa sushi comes this sleek, authentic izakaya at the Spectrum, ideal for noshing Japanese comfort nibbles at lunch or after a movie, or tossing back sakes and brews. 926 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-536-5064. $$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Sizzling Prime steaks, wet-aged from 24 to 28 days, are served topped with big pats of butter and chopped parsley. Founder Ruth Fertel grew up in New Orleans so there are crab cakes, Gulf shrimp, and sweet potato casserole. 2961 Michelson Drive, 949-252-8848. See Anaheim location. $$$

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

ALESSÁ BY CHEF PIROZZI

This village center magnet for robust Italian fare by Chef-Owner Alessandro Pirozzi boasts a bar featuring primo versions of burrata, scamorza, and other cheese delights, as well as elite cured meats from Italy and up-and-coming domestic producers, all hand-sliced to order. 234 Forest Ave., 949497-8222. $$

BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA

Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate team 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. $$$

BRUSSELS BISTRO

Loud and lively, this bistro brings a bit of Belgium to Orange County, with traditional beers on tap and an authentic menu. Stick with the tasty burger on rustic bread, or the mussels, served with the requisite frites. 222 Forest Ave., 949-376-7955. $$

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO

This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Margarita’s sprawling shop, but both offer top-notch

Cal-Mex fare. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, and Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Don’t miss costillitas—baby back ribs topped with fried onions. Outstanding margaritas. Warm, spiffy service. 217 Broadway St., 949-715-7829. See Rancho Santa Margarita location. $$

COYOTE GRILL

A great scenic stop on your drive down Coast Highway, Coyote Grill is a Mexican-American diner with a million-dollar view. For brunch, choose from breakfast burritos, chilaquiles, and huevos rancheros. Dinners range from fried chicken to lobster tacos and tamales. The food is serviceable, but the experience is like a minivacation. 31621 Coast Highway, 949-499-4033. $$

THE DRAKE

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

LAS BRISAS

Equal parts history, view, and food, Las Brisas (The Breezes) endures as a coastal landmark that locals can’t resist for showing off the best view in Laguna Beach. Whether it’s for margaritas at sunset or a leisurely Sunday brunch, the veteran dining room team generally handles high-volume crowds with poise. Breakfast and even Sunday brunch are good values. The active patio bar fills to capacity in summer. 361 Cliff Drive, 949-497-5434. Reservations recommended. $$$

THE LOFT

Part of the fun of dining at the posh Montage Laguna Beach is a spectacular ocean view, and this restful aerie delivers that view with style. The well-edited menu features refined fare made from prime, seasonal goods with coastal flavors. Always leave room for ravishing desserts that include epic ice cream sundaes. Weekend brunch stars ben-

nies and burgers. 30801 S. Coast Highway, 949715-6420. $$$

LUMBERYARD

Veteran local restaurateur Cary Redfearn brought new life to this downtown landmark with a welcoming bar and comfort classics such as meatloaf and chicken potpie that lure tourists and villagers alike. Look for a solid happy hour. 384 Forest Ave., 949-715-3900. $$

MOZAMBIQUE

The eclectic cuisine shows influences of South Africa. Peri-peri prawns, curries, and grilled meats are best bets. The wine list includes interesting selections from South Africa and New Zealand. 1740 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-7777. $$$

NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA & BIRRERIA

This spot is all about pizza worship and emphatically Italian, right down to the Molino San Felice flour and the glossy red Stefano Ferrara wood-fire oven imported from Italy. These pies—bubbling hot in the middle with a puffy, spotted ring of crust— require a knife and fork. Don’t ignore the cadre of small plates that includes a terrific chopped salad and dandy meatballs the size of softballs. 31542 S. Coast Highway, 949-499-4531. Beer and wine. $$

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

DINING GUIDE

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 truffle-perfumed 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 South 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 people-watching. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$

SPLASHES RESTAURANT

Easily one of our coast’s top resort options for a surf’s-edge indulgence, this contemporary dining room and lounge are famed for pricey romantic meals and sunset drinks. Ron Fougeray is executive chef. A stunning Pacific view dazzles, as does Fougeray’s five-star résumé that includes a James Beard nomination. Expect seasonal, coastal fare. Ask for lower-level patio seating and you might feel spray off the crashing waves. Surf & Sand Resort, 1555 S. Coast Highway, 888-281-3502. $$$

STARFISH

Locals and escaped Montage resort guests slip in for seaside cuisine with an Asian inflection at this Coast Highway venue. The dusky digs and sexy ’tude make it a good stop for appetizers and craft cocktails. Ample free parking is a plus. 30832 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9200. $$$

230 FOREST AVENUE

Lagunatics and sightseers mingle at this lively open-air cafe, where the martinis are as popular as the modern California cuisine. Noisy, cramped quarters are overlooked once the waiter brings your day boat scallops. Primo people-watching from the tables fronting one of the village’s busiest sidewalks. 230 Forest Ave., 949-494-2545. $$$

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

+ Tequila

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, 949-446-8772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL

BOTTEGA ANGELINA

This chic Italian is a grand showpiece by the team behind Pizzeria Angelina. Housemade pastas, roasted meats, and pizzas share a succinct menu, 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. $$$

CAL Ó 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. Scores of sipping tequilas delight agave fans. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949-409-7380. $$$

HENDRIX

Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hendrix swaggers into Laguna Niguel with a place that promises something for everyone in this option-lean suburb. It’s from the group behind

Laguna Beach’s The Deck and Driftwood Kitchen, and partner Austrian-born Rainer Schwarz is executive chef. A showpiece rotisserie roasts plump chickens, porchetta, and lamb while basting potatoes in the catch bin with juices from the meats. Irresistible small plates include prosciutto fritters, Brussels sprouts with marcona almonds, and chicken-fontina flatbread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949248-1912. $$

LA HABRA

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. $

LAKE FOREST

BRÜ GRILL & MARKET

Ambitious, with 245 seats, this suburban indie goes all-in for craft and microbrews, memorable cocktails, and pub food: a killer artisan sausage platter, Belgian-style mussels, and top-tier charcuterie. Entrees can be hit or miss, though the bone-in pork chop is a triumph. Drinks and brews (35 on tap) outshine the wine list. The on-site market retails wine, cheese, and other menu items. 23730 El Toro Road, 949-305-5757. $$

Gorditas at Caló Kitchen

LOS ALAMITOS

SHENANDOAH AT THE ARBOR

American regional comfort food with a Southern appeal is reason to visit this sweet family-owned cottage with lovely, tree-canopied garden seating in back. This cozy spot satisfies when the craving calls for Granny’s fried chicken, or country-fried pork chops. Commendable gumbo and fried green tomatoes, too. 10631 Los Alamitos Blvd., 562-4311990. Beer and wine. $$

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

A&O KITCHEN + BAR

A serious reboot of this fabled lounge—formerly Duke’s—transforms this waterside venue into a gastropub with a newly youthful vibe. Expect all the usual share plates: battered fries, shishito peppers, bacon-wrapped dates, plus several hearty plates including a worthy Kobe burger with bacon mayo on a cheddar-bacon bun. Bold, neonautical decor plays off the “anchors and oceans” theme and brings the bay view to life. The water’s-edge patio is inviting for sunset drinks or gathering ’round the fire pit. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Highway, 949-630-4285. $$

A RESTAURANT

This sexy old-school hangout rarely wants for business, thanks to the retooling of American classics made with hard-to-find premium goods. The stellar burger is not on the menu or always available, but go ahead and ask. At A Market next door, the inimitable Shelly Register oversees gourmet sandwiches and to-go goodies. 3334 W. Coast Highway, 949-650-6505. Dinner only. $$$

BAYSIDE

Classy Bayside remains a go-to choice on many fronts. Nightly happy hour stars a winning smallplates menu that keeps the bar hopping. Rotating artwork keeps the dining room ever fresh for relaxed meals of debonair American fare. Long favored by the coastal set for jazzy brunches, insid

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., 949-5207191. $$$

BLUEWATER GRILL SEAFOOD

RESTAURANT

Classic rich chowder, grilled trout, and fried clams share the daily menu with modern dishes such as zesty cioppino and mahi-mahi sliders with jalapeno aioli. A seasoned crew smoothly shifts from icy platters of just-shucked oysters, to salt and pepper shrimp. The menu boasts seasonal specials as well. 630 Lido Park Drive, 949-675-3474. $$

BOUILLON

Indefatigable operator Laurent Vrignaud, 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. $$

DINING GUIDE

THE CANNERY

The 1921 landmark structure has dazzled diners for more than 50 years with its waterfront site, pristine seafood, and top chops. Weekend patio brunch is beloved for ace huevos rancheros and the city’s best lobster roll. The upstairs Jellyfish Lounge still reigns as a hangout for locals. Also check out The Snug, a cozy bar downstairs, carved from the main dining room. Dockside dining offered for boaters. 3010 Lafayette Road, 949-566-0060. $$$

CUCINA ENOTECA

Chef de Cuisine Cesar Sarmiento helms the busy scratch kitchen of this Fashion Island sibling. The sprawling, lively space with its alluring garden room, hip cocktails, and fun wines supports inventive takes on classic pastas, cured meats, and creative breads. Like the Irvine location, this venue offers a retail wine boutique and lots of quirkychic furnishings for sale. Daily happy hour is a deal for tony Fashion Island. 951 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-1416. See Irvine location. $$

EDDIE V’S WILDFISH

Wildfish lures a loyal following. The finely calibrated menu of pristine seafood and first-class steaks keeps the glossy room and fireplace patio hopping, especially for nightly happy hour deals when upscale locals crowd the sleek bar. Urbane service. Strong wine list. 1370 Bison Ave., 949-7209925. $$$

FABLE & SPIRIT

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2020

From the family behind Dublin 4 comes this lush addition to the area across from Lido Marina Village. But don’t assume this is an Irish pub that mimics the other. This plush room features inventive fare that’s a mashup of American and Irish. Here you start with Hares Looking at You, a cocktail starring Wheatley vodka and carrot juice, move on to the refined beet agnolotti with chèvre foam, or share a woodfired duck confit pizetta. Yes, the fish and chips are superior, but so is the rabbit fricassee. 3441 Via Lido, 949-409-9913. $$$

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

Dry-aged steaks star at this red meat specialist, supported by a luxe array of seafood starters. A la carte lunch options include a filet mignon wedge salad. Another house signature: an all-star wine list with scores of choices by the glass. 455 Newport Center Drive, 949-720-9633. $$$

GULFSTREAM

Heavenly biscuits, baked to order, and pristine oysters, shucked to order (in season), are two reasons to visit this popular bar and restaurant. The sandfloor patio with glowing fire pit attracts singles, while the ocean-fresh fare draws foodies. If freshly caught seafood doesn’t appeal, there are terrestrial dishes such as mustard barbecue beef ribs. 850 Avocado Ave., 949-718-0188. $$$

JOEY

Expect Fashion Island’s first new restaurant in years to remain the toughest table in town for a bit. Diners flock to this see-and-be-seen mega venue for jazzy drinks and daily early and late happy hours backed by casual eclectic fare with a premium tilt. Don’t miss the dynamite hummus platter, steakand-sushi combo, and the unexpectedly wondrous chicken Parmesan. The all-day menu has many upgrade options, allowing diners to choose or decline splurges as budgets allow. 455 Newport Center Drive, 949-826-5699. $$$

HARBORSIDE RESTAURANT

One of O.C.’s most iconic landmarks, the 1906 Balboa Pavilion still lures visitors to its harbor view, and celebrants to its sweeping ballroom for special events and weddings galore. Expect a safe menu of all-American classics. Locals love that happy hour starts at noon. 400 Main St., 949-673-4633. $$

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS

This handsome waterfront venue sounds like a liquor store, but it’s a sleeper of a full-service restaurant hiding in the swanky Lido Marina Village development. Hyper-seasonal and prettily plated, notable creations include Dory Fleet catches of the day, opulent Iberico secreto pork, a solid burger, and one glorious chocolate mousse. 3408 Via Oporto, 949-529-2784. $$

MALIBU FARM LIDO

Malibu farm girl and native Swede Helene Henderson adds another ocean-air venue for colorful organic fare. The all-day menu boasts fat burritos, fruit-covered grain, or yogurt bowls and savory options that include the bestseller, an outstanding fried egg sandwich with great bacon and Havarti on country toast with lemon aioli. Multigrain pancakes are worthy, but Swedish mini pancakes with berries and cream are stupendous. 3420 Via Oporto, 949-791-2096. $$

MOULIN

Moulin is the passion project of Paris native Laurent Vrignaud. After 30 years in the action-sports

industry, he lives his longtime dream of serving bistro classics, selling oven-fresh baguettes and grab-and-go dishes, and peddling wines and other French pantry items. The unfussy bistro and patio evoke Paris at every turn. It’s O.C.’s gathering spot for expats and Francophiles. 1000 Bristol St. North, 949-474-0920. Locations (not reviewed) in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$

OLEA CELLAR CRAFT COOK

Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offering from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood and Vine, a homegrown hospitality group. Fans of Chef Jared Cook will recognize some familiar dishes from his sibling shops, but there are exclusives here, too. We’re mad for the opulent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarragon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, 949-287-6807. Dinner only. $$$

PALMILLA COCINA Y TEQUILA

Colorful elite tequila cocktails flow steadily across the busy bar at the peninsula’s chic Cabo-themed darling—satisfying locals with bodacious combo plates, Pacific seafood, and mesquite-grilled steaks. Don’t miss the ceviche trio, mole blanco enchiladas, short rib taquitos, and some impressive surfand-turf deals. Aficionados of agave spirits should

Shrimp taquitos at Palmilla Cocina y Tequila

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

check out the terrific collection. 3110 Newport Blvd., 949-220-1290, $$$

PESCADOU BISTRO

After three decades at its vintage location, this vest-pocket bistro owned by Jacques and Olga de Quillien is as cozy and classically French as ever. The blackboard $40 prix fixe rules supreme, but you can also indulge in classics that would thrill Julia Child: braised rabbit, duck confit with frites, and luscious ratatouille. Seasoned servers keep the regulars content, so it’s no wonder that diners quietly keep this gem their secret. 3325 Newport Blvd., 949-675-6990. Dinner only. $$

PIZZERIA MOZZA

This is the O.C. outpost of the rustic, reverent Italian cuisine brought so smashingly to L.A. in 2006 by luminaries Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton, and Joe Bastianich. Picture-perfect pizzas with heady toppings, delightful antipasti, comforting al forno dishes, and A+ desserts attract eager crowds to this simple, boxy space. Local beers, Italian wines, and a full bar. Don’t miss the cauliflower fritti, caprese salad, and any pizza with pork. Butterscotch budino is a gold rush, too. 800 W. Coast Highway, 949-9451126. $$$

RED O

Chicago’s Rick Bayless expands his empire by attaching his brand and recipes to this grand and handsome Fashion Island venue. Alas, the pricey fare doesn’t achieve the culinary distinction we expect from noted chef. Service is gracious and the yellowtail aguachile is lovely, but in a county brimming with excellent Mexican options, this 250-seater feels designed for deep-pocketed tourists. 143 Newport Center Drive, 949-718-0300. $$$

ROYAL HEN

This Balboa Island venue is a petite, urbane gastropub so small that reservations are a must. The polished makeover suits the taut menu of dinner fare that includes a mean burger and signature chicken pie that sells out nightly. As ever, parking is vexing, so consider getting dropped off. 311 Marine Ave., 949-873-5603. Beer and wine. $$$

SABATINO’S LIDO SHIPYARD SAUSAGE CO.

Peter Sabatino used to deliver his mom’s sausages door to door in Chicago. Now customers come to him in Newport Beach, where he sells 300 to 400 pounds a day from his restaurant. The old-school Italian menu and comfy patio make it a relaxing spot for first dates or family dinners of pastas, seafood, and, of course, dishes loaded with his secret-recipe sausages. 251 Shipyard Way, 949-7230621. Beer and wine. $$

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. $

SHOREBIRD

Hidden inside the Vue Newport enclave, Shorebird is invisible until you enter the airy split-level space dominated by its waterfront view. Expect contemporary American fare plus familiar side detours for

sushi and tacos. Best bets include Duroc pork chop, lump crab cakes, avocado fries. 2220 Newport Blvd., 949-287-6627. $$$

SOL COCINA

Fresh, spunky flavors of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula lure the coastal crowd to this bayside cantina. A kickin’ bar with crackling fireplace serves tasty cocktails, many made from scores of artisan tequilas. 251 E. Coast Highway, 949-675-9800. $$$

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, and 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. $$

TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR

David Wilhelm, the county’s restaurant laureate, returns to Newport Beach with this fetching and welcome rehab of a waterside venue. Menus read like a playlist of Wilhelm’s champion recipes tweaked for 2020. Standout new dishes for dinner and weekend brunch include red snapper Veracruzana, Buddha bowls, sirloin meatballs, and fried chicken with malted waffles. Look for a natty pre-sunset happy hour on weekdays. 333 Bayside Drive, 949-673-8464. $$

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT, BAR & STORE

This local favorite strives to remain relevant. The coastal cuisine is well-executed, from a menu that keeps up with dishes such as seared scallop sliders, za’atar-crusted ahi tuna with Beluga lentils, and filet mignon flatbread. As always, drinks are inviting with a tropical theme; the mai tai is the best around. A super-sleek new patio is lighter, brighter, and bigger. This is a great place to meet for happy hour. 854 Avocado Ave., 949-760-8686. $$

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN

Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory food pyramid is translated into a globally varied parade of healthful starters, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, with intriguing cocktails for good measure. Best (and quieter) seats are on the sleek, canopied patio with its lush living wall. 451 Newport Center Drive, 949-644-2400. $$

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

The snazzy venue overlooks the yacht and Duffy boat traffic in Newport Harbor, flaunting its waterfront charms with 180-degree views from two floors plus a cigar patio. The space sizzles with

bonhomie—and diners who love their surf, turf, wine, and VIP treatment. Expect cosseting service from partners JC Clow, William Lewis, and Executive Chef Yvon Goetz. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 3131 W. Coast Highway, 949-999-6622. See Tustin location. $$$

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. $$$

BLUEFIN

Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gorgeous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The setting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Superior sake selection. 7952 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 949-715-7373. $$$

MARCHÉ MODERNE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2018

The finest French bistro south of Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal 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. $$$

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB

O.C.’s flashiest hipsters gather here to be nursed like they’re bleeding cash. And they are. Megamartinis, obese lobsters, and Bible-thick steaks don’t come cheap, but this dramatic setting does offer the ocean view and suave service worthy of its position as our finest castle of cholesterol consumption. Thursdays are famed for singles action that approaches tournament level. 8112 E. Coast Highway, 949-376-6990. See South Coast Metro location. $$$

WASA SUSHI

James Hamamori cemented his stardom at this striking shopping-center spot brimming with devotees of modern spins on sushi. Renowned for such fare as salmon with ginger sauce and fresh orange. Exceptional selection of salads, appetizers, and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511. Beer and wine. $$

ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST

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

DINING GUIDE

ORANGE

BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS

Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a southern accent. Look for Parmesan-crusted meatloaf, gulf shrimp and grits, and a yowza burger. The service is sharp. Sunday brunch and a robust midweek happy hour. 118 W. Chapman Ave., 714-716-1599. $$

FELIX CONTINENTAL CAFE

Despite the use of canned peas and a menu as old as the Castro regime, this value-conscious cafe remains a cult favorite, serving traditional Cuban and Spanish foods. A charming spot to sip a cafe con leche, enjoy a slice of tres leches cake, and watch the world go by. 36 Plaza Square, 714-633-5842. Beer and wine. $

GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

Gabbi Patrick grew up working in her family’s Mexican restaurants, then studied at the Greystone Culinary Academy in Napa. The menu reveals her formal training as it embraces her family’s background. With items such as gorditas al pastor (masa cakes with Kurobuta pork belly and a pineapple-onion relish), Patrick’s plates celebrate simple, honest flavors. 141 S. Glassell St., 714-633-3038. $$

HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR

A serious contender in the gastropub category, this popular storefront in Old Towne lures a mixed crowd of brew fanatics and foodies, thanks to a rich roster of esoteric suds and polished pub grub. Dishes such as a braised lamb pappardelle and coriander roasted baby carrots. Lunch and early dinner are options for bypassing the deafening din that rises with the crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714221-0680. $$

THE HOBBIT

Gustatory delights worthy of Gatsby attract diners on special occasions to this gracious hacienda, where dinners are seven-course pageants that start with bubbly and nibbles in the wine cellar, and end hours later on the cigar patio. Each night’s menu is set weeks in advance—and so are most reservations. 2932 E. Chapman Ave., 714-997-1972. Reservations required. $$$

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 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 $$

PRIME CUT CAFÉ & WINE BAR

American comfort cuisine gets a major boost from top-notch ingredients, sophisticated kitchen techniques, and, of course, a wine bar with plenty of choices by the taste, glass, or bottle. The dashing digs are casual enough to pair with a movie date next door. 1547 W. Katella Ave., 714-532-4300. $$

PLACENTIA

EL FAROLITO

Often packed tighter than a taquito, this is a go-to favorite for traditional border fare, served fast and friendly. Pass the wait with an icy Negra Modelo— regulars know to grab one from the cooler out front. Huevos dishes—rancheros, machaca, chorizo—are

Camarones flameados at Gema

popular on weekend mornings, and served until 3 p.m. 201 S. Bradford Ave., 714-993-7880. $

FISH IN A BOTTLE

Sleepy Placentia gets some modern chow at this maverick mom-and-pop cafe that supplements California cuisine with elaborate, innovative sushi rolls. If a Tuscan roll with grilled veggies and balsamic reduction doesn’t intrigue, go traditional with the soft-shell crabs with crispy tomato, or seared ahi with squash-seed crust. The casual cafe has a sushi bar for purists. 1205 E. Imperial Highway, 714528-4000. Beer, wine, and sake. $$

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN & BAR

Lakeside seats, terrific craft cocktails, and daring fare by young chef Karl Pfleider earn local love for this rare gastro-canteen in Rancho Santa Margarita. Midweek tapas start at 3 p.m. with goodies such as steak tartare with pistachio XO sauce. But wait until 5 p.m. for the mahi-mahi with paprika mole. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949-888-0072. Sec-

ond location (not reviewed) in Yorba Linda, 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2593. $$

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN

This lakefront sprawler offers top-notch Cal-Mex fare from the culinary vision of owner Clemente Heredia Jr., a third-generation operator. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Outstanding margaritas. Warm, spiffy service. 31441 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949-709-7600. See Laguna Beach location. $$

SAN CLEMENTE

GEMA

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2023

Executive Chef Juan Pablo Cruz and owner Sarah Goldman create a 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, $$

IVA LEE’S

Deep South and down-home despite the modern exterior, the Southern-Creole eats here are designed to help diners relax and let the good times roll. 555 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2855. Dinner only. $$$

MRK PUBLIC

Three chefs, two of them former co-chefs at Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach, transform a fast-casual fixture into a winning spot that offers craft beers, all $5, and a tightly edited menu of elevated favorites, notably Tuscan toast, and a terrific fried chicken sandwich. The rear counter offers a distant ocean view. 1402 S. El Camino Real, 949-441-7621. Beer and wine. $

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. $$

RARE SOCIETY

Downtown’s posh newcomer doubles down on extravagant steakhouse cuisine, featuring steak boards designed for sharing via wooden turntables flanked by a medley of scratch sauces. Spanish red tile on the outside, the new two-story digs are sleek inside, with pricey beef cuts displayed in the lobby’s dry-aging chambers like so much jewelry. Best bets include lavish seafood towers, wagyu tri-tip, truffled Parker House rolls, and house-made butter cake with sour cream ice cream. Dinner only. 226 Avenida Del Mar, 949-669-7273 $$$$

SOUTH OF NICK’S

From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110 N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location (not reviewed) in Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$

VINE

A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new heights, because owner Russ Bendel Jr. wisely gives sauce monster and Executive Chef Jared Cook full reign over the kitchen. Look for killer duck wings and nightly specials that tend to sell out. A garden out back only sweetens this beach burg gem. 211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079. Dinner only. $$$

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

EL ADOBE DE CAPISTRANO

This restaurant will always be known as Nixon’s favorite. No surprises here, just steaks, combo plates, friendly service, and a charming setting. Ask for a tour of the purportedly haunted carcel, a former jail converted into a wine cellar. This historic building used to be the juzgado, or court, in colonial days. 31891 Camino Capistrano, 949-493-1163. $$

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 $$$

L’HIRONDELLE

This pudgy, white adobe in the mission’s shadow charms with home cooking of the French-Belgian sort. The snug room has a cozy aura for chilly nights; the flowery patio suits the cuisine. 31631 Camino Capistrano, 949-661-0425. Beer and wine. $$

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. $$$

RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ

A sweet adobe hiding in the historic Los Rios district, Ramos House Café turns out some of South County’s most delectable daytime fare. Contemporary and clever American breakfasts and lunches (brunch on weekends) have a distinct Southern accent that fits the rustic, alfresco setting with passing trains as soundtrack. Look for ethereal biscuits and crab hash. And don’t miss the killer bloody mary. 31752 Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$

SUNDRIED TOMATO

This breezy cafe is a great find for light lunch and uncomplicated dinners. Small and large plates for the California palate: sundried tomato soup and memorable sandwiches, such as the honey-cilantro chicken pesto, or lamb burger with Gorgonzola and aioli. 31781 Camino Capistrano, 949-661-1167. Second location (not reviewed) in San Clemente at 821 Via Suerte, 949-388-5757. $$

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. $$

CHAPTER ONE

The diverse crowd here drinks with gusto as proved by the enduring fame of its Moscow Mule, made with fresh-daily house ginger beer. Best bets include daily specials, unique hooch pours, and weekend brunch. 227 N. Broadway, 714-352-2225. $$

CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL

This intrepid Mexican canteen offers less-familiar dishes—corundas, roast quail—alongside comfort favorites such as ceviche and chilaquiles. Michoacán native Sergio Ortega is executive chef. Look for dinner nightly and lively Sunday brunch. Commendable drinks. 400 N. Broadway, 714-852-3256. $$

EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE

Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe fromMexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde Also impressive: crisp tacos ahogado in hot broth. We loved the guajillo salsa-soaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch. Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. The vintage site with soaring ceilings seats 115 and boasts modern artwork. Expect kind, unflappable service. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$

LOLA GASPAR

Offbeat but not outlandish, this Artists Village indie draws an eclectic crowd for creative cocktails and lusty pub grub, often with a Latin twist. Inside, the quarters are dark and chummy, while the Euro-esque patio opens to the village promenade. 211 W. Second St., 714-972-1172. $$

WURSTHAUS

This convivial brats-n-brew salon succeeds by owning a deep niche: custom sausages and allEuro beers on 20 taps. When all others swoon over local craft brews, this crew goes long on atypical sausages with wild sauces on pretzel buns. And no pint is complete without Belgian fries made the Old World way. 305 E. Fourth St., 714-760-4333. $

SEAL BEACH

320 MAIN

Seal Beach’s dark-but-cheerful indie venue boasts a long-respected cocktail program, and Chef Jamie Carrano complements those craft cocktails with a menu of rich, high-flavor fare. Think bone marrow Wellington, and for brunch, fried chicken Benedict. Fun day-of-the-week specials include Tiki Tuesday and Wine and Whiskey Wednesday. 320 Main St., 562-799-6246. $$

MAHÉ

Mahé is a hot spot for locals. Entertainment and a lively bar are the backdrops for sushi, steaks, and seafood. The inventive rolls, such as the salmon bomb, will make you a regular. 1400 Pacific Coast Highway, 562-431-3022. Dinner only. $$$

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. Dinner plus brunch on the weekend. 28222 Silverado Canyon Road, 657-314-9042 $$$

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

DINING GUIDE

more kickback experience, or snag a padded stool at the adjacent noodle bar. 3333 Bristol St., 714-5575679. $$$

ANTONELLO RISTORANTE

For more than three decades South Coast Plaza’s Italian grand diva has reigned for ultrafine feasting on authentic, traditional dishes backed by a savvy wine selection deep with Italian stars. House-made pastas, breads, and desserts. The restaurant’s aura of privilege is underscored by pampering service for VIPs. A full-service wine bar is the latest update. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-751-7153. $$$

CALÓ KITCHEN + TEQUILA

After several dry years, South Coast Plaza diners are finally washing down fresh guacamole with potent margaritas thanks to the debut of this dazzling Caló sibling. A sultry retool of the large venue stars a grand central bar, open kitchen, and vast patio with boulder fire pits. Best bets include Chilean seabass, beef queso mini tacos, and black bean tri-color quinoa salad. Preset tequila flights are served tableside from a gleaming spirits trolley. Don’t skip the fromscratch churros. 3333 Bristol St., 714-462-1445. See second location in Laguna Niguel. $$$

THE CAPITAL GRILLE

Florida’s Darden Group (parent of downstairs restaurant Seasons 52) takes on an increasing amount of square footage at South Coast Plaza with this upscale, 400-plus-seat steakhouse. Despite an emphasis on dry-aged steaks and seafood classics, some of the best dishes are lunch items, appetizers, and desserts. Gracious service, plush surroundings, and a deep, steep wine list. 3333 Bristol St., 714-432-1140. $$$

DARYA

Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebabs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$

DIN TAI FUNG

Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, handpleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bristol St., 714-549-3388. $$

HAMAMORI

Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza 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. $$$

MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE

Be prepared for gargantuan portions, with drinks to match. Mastro’s offers Prime steaks, wet-aged for 28 days. A hand-cut, 33-ounce chef’s ribeye, and a 48-ounce, double-cut porterhouse will tame the manliest appetite. Retro sides include twicebaked potato, and creamed spinach. 633 Anton Blvd., 714-546-7405. See Newport Coast location. Dinner only. $$$

MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE

Steaks, including a 48-ounce porterhouse and a double-cut filet mignon, are wet-aged three to four

weeks. Fill your plate with giant sides of broccoli and hash browns, but leave a little room: There’s chocolate cake for dessert. Killer happy hour deals, early and late night, Sunday through Friday. 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., 714-444-4834. See Anaheim location. $$$

OUTPOST KITCHEN

A native of Australia’s Gold Coast, founder Jay Lewis brings a surf culture vibe and his passion for clean eating to colorful bowls and salads. The breezy patio beckons for weekend brunch or pretheater dining. Best bites include berry pancakes and the Kingswood lamb sandwich, as well as smoothies and bowls. 3420 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-8523044 $$

PARADISE DYNASTY

Singapore’s largest restaurant group opts for the Bloomingdale’s end of South Coast Plaza for its

photograph

Striped sea bass at Pacific Catch

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 $$

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. There’s a prix fixe midweek lunch and special brunch dishes on Sunday. 3333 Bristol St., 714-760-4555 $$$

RITTER’S STEAM KETTLE COOKING

Chef-Partner Mike Ritter and crew create Cajun-Creole magic in 12 steam-heated steel caldrons that cook seductive versions of gumbo, chowder, and the legendary pan poast—a heady concoction of various shellfish bubbling in a rich sauce of cream, tomato, and secret spices, topped with a dome of perfect jasmine rice—that’s by far the bestselling dish. And don’t miss the mean po’ boy sandwich. 1421 W. MacArthur Blvd., 714-850-1380. Beer and wine. $$

ROYAL KHYBER

Arun Puri, the creator behind Orange County’s first Indian restaurant, is still buying the spices and manning the tandoor oven in the skilled kitchen at this upscale choice for first-rate renditions of classics such as butter chicken, tikka masala, and the signature Khyber’s Nectar, a dish of slow-cooked lamb shanks said to be an aphrodisiac. 1621 W. Sunflower Ave., 714-436-1010. $$

SEASONS 52

Open-kitchen cooking with wood fire serves seasonal eats with a farmers market spin. Flatbreads and shot-glass desserts are signatures. Look for nightly music at the piano bar and an inviting patio with fountains and fire pits. 3333 Bristol St., 714437-5252. $$

TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR

South Coast Plaza’s shiny new addition categorizes its cuisine as New American—a hazy designation for Chef-Owner John Park’s canny brunch and dinner menus that defy easy labels. Think fried burrata sandwich with pumpkin seed pesto, souffle-light berry pancakes with chamomile whipped cream, and shrimp and grits with surprise slices of lap cheong. Desserts are dazzlers. Captivating cocktails. 3333 Bear St., 714-872-8054. $$

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’t-miss 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. $$$

TRABUCO CANYON

TRABUCO OAKS STEAKHOUSE

This favorite of Nixon’s, where they will cut off your tie and keep it as part of the decor, is 100 percent serious when it comes to steaks: Choice cuts are well-aged and mesquite-charcoal grilled to order. From the 2-pound cowboy steak to the 8-ounce filet mignon, the smoky, charred flavor shines through in every bite. Small but select wine list of California superstars. 20782 Trabuco Oaks Drive, 949-586-0722. Dinner only. $$

TUSTIN

CENTRO STORICO

Old Town Tustin’s new kid on the old block transforms a vintage building into a spaghetteria and bar, plus a back-pocket cafe. Artisan, fresh daily pasta is the latest effort from the Pozzuoli family behind Centro, the excellent micro pizzeria next door. Signature dishes include Capperi e Olive (casarecca), Aglione (bucatini), and grilled porterhouse for two. 405 El Camino Real., 714-2588817. $$

CHAAK

Gabbi and Ed Patrick of Gabbi’s Kitchen chose Old Town to show off the county’s most sophisticated take on the regional fare of Mexico’s wondrous Yucatán Peninsula, naming their new location after the Mayan rain god. The dazzling space features a retractable roof and sliding Roman shades to lovely effect. Must-have dishes include sikil pec, a roasted pumpkin seed dip, as well as cochinita pibil and carne cruda. A 16-seat bar invites lingering over elaborate cocktails or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$

PACIFIC CATCH

Tustin Market Place is home to O.C.’s first “West Coast fish house” by a San Francisco-based 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. $

SNOOZE

Denver-based Snooze handily charms the all-day, everyday brunch crowd it lures to its Tustin Marketplace venue. Consistently delicious riffs on classic egg and pancake dishes make for a brunch you want but will never cook at home. Expect peppy, earnest service that reflects the menu’s slogan of “peace, love, pancakes.” 3032 El Camino Real, 714415-6269. Second location (not reviewed) in Orange at 240 W. Chapman Ave., 657-284-1850. $$

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

The O.C. power crowd doesn’t care that this isn’t a winery, but a huge, handsome restaurant that attracts disciples of steak, wine, and cigars. They’re exactly the folks you’d expect would follow partners JC Clow and William Lewis from their previous gig at Morton’s, with Executive Chef Yvon Goetz in tow. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. If the 7,500-bottle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$

THE YELLOW CHILLI

The Yellow Chilli is another franchise by Sanjeev Kapoor, India’s mega-celebrity chef. Bigger than Wolfgang or Martha. The massive menu proves the master chef isn’t stingy with recipes, not after writing more than 150 cookbooks. Knowledgeable servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera, one of Kapoor’s most famous creations: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714-389-5280. $$

ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO

Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, creative way with Mediterranean flavors. Zov keeps her flagship venue fresh and stylish. Expect Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. The patio cafe out back stays 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 housemade 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. $$

BEHIND THE CAMERA

Costa Mesa resident and Chapman University alum Michelle Pulfrey is an Emmy Award winner and executive producer of “Good Day LA” on FOX 11. by Astgik Khatchatryan

You were recently named executive producer; what was that journey like?

My first job out of college was at “Good Day LA” as a production assistant, and I was soon promoted to being a field producer. Over 25 years, I did everything. We went national and I was going to New York and all over. I was the Style File producer, the senior producer, the lead of special projects—you name it. Then this past fall they called me in and said, ‘Hey, it’s your 25-year anniversary and we want you to be executive producer!’

Did you always want to be in this type of role?

I grew up in Colorado. One of my dad’s

friends was a news anchor in Denver and in the 6th grade I got to go to one of their meetings. There was a woman running the meeting, the executive producer. And it left such an impression on me that I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I never deviated from that.

You also started teaching at your alma mater last year. Full-circle moment?

I wanted to teach at Chapman for years. When I moved here to go to college, the thing that made me fall in love with Chapman was how small it was, especially being from a small town. You felt like the teachers wanted to help you achieve

success and the classes were really hands-on.

What does being executive producer mean to you?

It’s a huge honor. The news can be sad, but we also want to find those positive, uplifting stories. And we have hosts that are free to be themselves. It feels like the magic is back again. It’s nice to have that torch to carry on.

WATCH!

Catch “Good Day LA” weekday mornings from 4 to 11 a.m.

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