Orange Coast Magazine - March 2024

SURPRISE YOURSELF AT WEBB'S GRAINWORKS

of

FOURTH EDITION

At

UCI Health, we don’t just practice medicine, we create it.

Now we are writing the next chapter of healthcare in Orange County. UCI Health — Irvine will bring our patients unparalleled expertise, leading-edge treatments and the finest evidence-based care that only an academic health system can offer.

The 1.2-million-square-foot medical campus will feature 800,000 square feet of clinical space. Anchored by a state-of-the-art hospital, the new campus will offer personalized treatments, including hundreds of clinical trials by our NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, as well as 24-hour emergency care.

Our world-renowned experts will also deliver exceptional primary and specialty care, including digestive health, neurosciences and orthopaedics, all powered by the University of California, Irvine.

Coming soon

Spring 2024

Joe C. Wen & Family Center for Advanced Care opens. This four-story, 168,000-square-foot outpatient facility will be the home to over 15 medical specialties.

Summer 2024

Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Ambulatory Care building opens. This four-story, 225,000-square-foot outpatient facility will be part of the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center based in Orange County.

Late 2025

The seven-story, 350,000 square-foot, 144-bed UCI Health acute care hospital opens.

To learn more, visit ucihealth.org/irvinehospital

•Four floors of the most advanced cancer screening, diagnostics and treatments in the region.

•An infusion center featuring 40 infusion chairs and breathtaking views of the wetlands.

•Advanced surgical techniques, including outpatient prostate cancer surgery, which may allow you to go home the same day.

•One of the largest clinical trial programs in Orange County to give you access to the latest treatments and therapies.

Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Ambulatory Care Building

Coming Summer 2024

•Five-story, 168,000-square-foot outpatient facility.

•Specialty care, urgent care, digestive health, neurosciences and comprehensive laboratory and radiology imaging services in one convenient location.

•Center for Children’s Health will o er primary and specialty pediatric services.

•New home of the Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, providing care to individuals living with autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Joe C. Wen & Family Center for Advanced Care Building

Coming summer 2024

Whatever you’re facing

UCI Health will be there with the groundbreaking cancer care you expect. Compassionate, expert care starts here.

To learn more, visit ucihealth.org

Mission Revival Masterpiece with Spanish Elegance & Exclusivity

Nestled in The Groves’ intimate 10-estate community, this dream home spans nearly 4,500 square feet of meticulously designed living space on a generous 33,541-square-foot lot. The private, gated estate embodies Mission Revival style, boasting a three-bedroom main house, a separate one-bedroom casita, resort-inspired amenities, and sprawling grounds with olive trees, courtyards, and fountains.

MAKE ROOM FOR ALL OF YOU

MARCH

“Opening up the space for other girls who maybe want to do the same thing, and know that they’re able to do that and not feel outnumbered or intimidated, is really important for me.”

TOBEY LYNN REYES, KICKASS WOMAN 2024 AND PART OF OUR NEXT GENERATION OF FEMALE LEADERS, PICTURED BELOW

76 POWER OF WOMEN: 2024

Meet the honorees we’re proud to call neighbors, friends, and leaders in our community. They each live up to the definition of kickass: Having a strong e˜ ect on someone; powerful, spectacular, impressive.

90

NOBODY’S SIDEKICK

Orange County School of the Arts alum

Anneliese van der Pol discusses her roles on The Disney Channel and Broadway, as well as her new podcast.

BY ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN

Illustration by Andrew Hart

photographs by SCOTT SMELTZER

ALIX PAGE

TOBEY LYNN REYES

REBEKAH ROBECK

Chad Brauze, head of culinary at fast-growing chain Sweetgreen, joins Cathy Thomas to prepare miso salmon with spicy cashew dressing.

Check

Apple

brand o° icer Raissa Gerona, about their lives

Read more about food trends in

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.

56-57

59

66-70

66

67

69

71

72

73

104

106-108

•

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

Concierge

495

IVAR E. ROTH, DPM/MPH

How Dr. Ivar Roth is eliminating fungus with

My favorite issue is here! Our annual Kickass Women feature started in the heart of pandemic lockdowns. It was a way to focus on the good news in our community during a challenging time, and to showcase the bright stars right here in O.C. It expanded rapidly from that to what it is today: a growing list of spectacular leaders that people are honored to be part of, and it coincides with a sold-out event every year.

The women we’re celebrating are recommended by past winners, readers, and our editorial team. It’s been an inspiring journey of reporting as we discover more about each of them and what they’re excited about (Page 76). We even got word just before we went to press that one of them received a lifetime achievement award for her work: Congratulations Bernadette Boden-Albala!

The connections forged between winners has been one of the most surprising and rewarding aspects. One of the youngest women we paid tribute to a few years ago—Girl Scout Gold Award winner Saachi Pavani—attended the event, where she met fellow honoree Annette Walker, president of City of Hope Orange County. Pavani landed an internship at City of Hope as a result. Another fruitful merging: CEO of Project Hope Alliance Jennifer Friend and restaurateur and activist Mimi Lee. They teamed up to get extra party favors from the luncheon donated to the kids at Project Hope Alliance. I know there are many more examples of like-minded leaders forming beneficial bonds that also uplift residents throughout our county.

I hope you are motivated as you peruse the pages of dynamic women in this issue. And I hope you get a chance to meet some of them, too.

MS. ALAN GIBBONS EDITOR - IN - CHIEF AGIBBONS @ ORANGECOAST.COM

BENEATH THE COVERS: AMAZING WOMEN

Sigourney Weaver (May 2001) is certainly a fantastic woman. She might be one of the original kickass ladies!

Geena Davis in July 2002—two years before she founded the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media

O.C.’s own Lindsay Davenport and her baby boy in 2008. Her son, Jagger Leach, played this year’s Australian Open.

Lynsi Snyder, on the cover in Februrary of 2014, inherited control of O.C.-based In-N-Out in 2006.

WOMEN’S ISSUES THROUGH THE YEARS

n perusing historic copies of the magazine, we came across this gem from a reader in the January issue of 1977: “Why don’t you have more articles on prominent women? Orange County abounds with women executives and various creative types. We’ve come a long way from just the cooking and fashion pages ... Or hadn’t you noticed?”

IAmen to that!

An article in the Feburary issue of 1984 that highlighted the County Board of Supervisors and their roles here featured a comparison between Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and 2nd District Supervisor Harriet Wieder—both being the first women in their roles. The article continued: “Of the comparison, Wieder quips, ‘Oh I hope she’s not having as much trouble with the boys as I’m having.’ Despite the humor, Wieder admits there were and still are some prejudices among the political community.”

More than 20 years later, but still ahead of 2018’s MeToo Movement, the magazine ran a story in February of 2009 about O.C. cougars—older women dating younger men—and surveyed many local residents regarding their feelings about the term. It feels like progress that we’ve moved past caring about this for the most part.

As we celebrate March and International Women’s Month with our annual Kickass Women issue, we’re delighted that readers and the country at large seem to be abandoning past sexist attitudes of years gone by ... well except for the Academy Award snubs for Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie. The work continues...

MY FIRST DAY

SUE BRANICA Production Director

Which first day? I’ve had several at Orange Coast 1 ) Started as an unpaid intern in 1997. I got my name on the masthead!

2 ) Art Director position became available six months later. My second day was the employee holiday party: A party on my second day of work? I like this place. A fter leaving in 2000, I maintained connections, specifically with Linda Goldstein.

3) In 2017, a message came from Linda: “Are you working?” I was hired as Production Director. My first day felt like a homecoming. COVID moved us out of the off ice, and then out of a job.

4) In 2023, the Production Manager position became available; I am back in my position with familiar faces. Happy to be back at Orange Coast and hope my first days here are over.

First started in 1997 SUBMIT YOUR STORY!

Do you have a story about our magazine?

Send a note to ag ibbons@orang ecoast.com

Captain & Tenille in 1977. They divorced in 2014.

This issue celebrated the magazine’s 10-year anniversary.

Not sure we can find one meal under $25 these days!

Last year’s edition of Kickass Women went with a sold-out lunch.

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF

Alan Gibbons

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

Andrew Ayala, Benjamin Epstein, Jessica Kim, Grace Murray, Greg Nagel, Valerie Takahama, Cathy Thomas, Barbara Neal Varma, Theresa Walker

CONTRIBUTING ARTIST

Martha Nippert

ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE LLC

2102 Business Center Drive, Suite 125 Irvine, CA 92612 949-862-1133, orangecoast.com

ENGINE VISION MEDIA

COFOUNDER

Mark Geragos

COFOUNDER

Ben Meiselas

COO AND HEAD OF EVENTS

Shelby J. Russell srussell@orangecoast.com

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER

Christopher Gialanella cgialanella@orangecoast.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND CUSTOM CONTENT

Carly Allen callen@orangecoast.com

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Linda Wallis Goldstein lgoldstein@orangecoast.com

ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

Randy Bilsley, rbilsley@orangecoast.com

Edward Estrada, eestrada@orangecoast.com

Richard Lockhart, rlockhart@orangecoast.com

HEAD OF EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING

Traci Takeda, ttakeda@orangecoast.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Sue Branica, sbranica@orangecoast.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Natalie Malins, nmalins@lamag.com

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR

Sheila Ramezani, sramezani@lamag.com

STRATEGY AND PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR

Suzy Starling, sstarling@lamag.com

DIGITAL COORDINATOR

MJ Carpentier, mcarpentier@orangecoast.com

Max Stretton, mstretton@lamag.com

SALES COORDINATOR

Jared Polter, jpolter@lamag.com

COMMUNITY LIAISON EMERITUS

Gloria Zigner

NATIONAL SALES OFFICES

WEST COAST

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

MIDWEST & TEXAS: CS MEDIA

Cheryl Schuldt, 847-251-3483, fax: 847-589-8491

HAWAII

Meredith Low, meredith@meredithlowhawaii.com

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

626-659-8004

12 print issues $19.95 orangecoast.com/subscribe

CHARITABLE EVENTS

SUBMISSIONS

orangecoast.com

/submit-a-charitable-event

A New Era in Vision Correction:

Discover the Breakthrough of Apthera

In the realm of vision correction, innovation has been a constant companion over the years. From manual incisions to laser surgeries, technology has continually pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. One name that stands out in this ever-evolving landscape is Gregg Feinerman MD, based in Newport Beach. Dr. Feinerman has been at the forefront of vision correction for decades, and his latest endeavor, Apthera, is a game changer for improving vision. He is one of a select group of eye surgeons chosen by Bausch & Lomb to implant the Apthera lens.

Introducing Apthera

If you have ever had your vision tested, and it improved when you looked through the pinhole device, then you have some understanding of how Apthera works. Apthera filters out unfocused light that can cause blurry vision.

Feinerman Vision is proud to offer the latest technological advancement in eye surgery…Apthera.

Only the Apthera IOL (intraocular lenses) offers small aperture technology. Unlike other IOLs, it does not split, shift or stretch light. When light enters your eye, the small aperture technology filters out unfocused light that can cause blurry vision. It focuses light and seamlessly expands your range of vision—so you can see objects, people, even text— continuously across the full range of focal distances.

ADVANTAGES OF APTHERA

• Clear vision for near, far, and everything in between

• Treats mild to moderate astigmatism

• Filters out unfocused light

Conclusion

• Works seamlessly in bright and low light conditions

As technology continues to reshape the landscape of vision correction, Dr. Feinerman’s dedication to staying at the forefront of innovation remains unwavering. His introduction of Apthera showcases his commitment to providing patients with the latest advancements that can significantly enhance their quality of life. Dr. Feinerman’s practice stands as a beacon of progress, offering a glimpse into the future of vision correction. With the Apthera, patients not only regain clear vision but also gain a new perspective on what’s possible in the world of eye care.

ACHIEVE YOUR BEST VISION WITH THE APTHERA LENS

• Improves the quality of vision in eyes with irregular astigmatism (ie. Keratoconus or Radial Keratometry)

The Apthera intraocular lens is exclusively designed to give you the advantage of clear vision from near to far, and everything in between. It has given us amazing results and is a game changer for people who had prior RK or LASIK surgeries.”

Gregg Feinerman MD, FACS

M

arch is upon us in O.C. We are thrilled to present our Women of Impact special promtional section in this annual women’s issue.

We are proud to celebrate these amazing women and all of the great things they do to make them some of the most powerful, inspiring women around.

Thank you:

• UCI Health –

Tara Kasmarek, MBA, vice president, operations

Mara Rosalsky, MSN, RN, vice president, perioperative services

Donna Hurt, director, ambulatory care administration

Sandra Masson, MSN, RN, executive director, cancer center

Mary Ezzat, MSN, RN, director, ambulatory care administration

• Michele Harrington – First Team Real Estate

• AJ Olson Whitfield – EQTY Forbes Global Properties

• Anne Luhan, MD, FACS – Elite Vein Institute

• Dr. Vikki Shepp, CEO – Girl Scouts of Orange County

• Jane An – Monolithe Wealth Planning Group

• Jennifer Kim – SEIA

• Michelman & Robinson, LLP

• Paula Aragone – First Team Real Estate

• Wendy Haase-Roberts – Travel Santa Ana

• Tanuja Bhandari, MD – Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment

• Hang Dang, DO – Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment

• Stevie Otis, MD – Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment

• Jill Tseng, MD – Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment

• Venita William, MD – Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment

• Linda Zeineh, MD – Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment

• Hailey Potok – The Potok Group

• Shauna R. Anderson, ESQ. – Law & Stein, LLP

Also this month: Another group of amazing women are organizing the 50th Anniversary CDM Home Tour on March 14. Barclay Butera Interiors and VALIA Properties return as Presenting Sponsors, and their support continues to enhance this event and support improvements and programs at CDM Middle & High School.

This event includes breakfast, tours of stunning homes in Newport Beach and Corona del Mar, luncheon, shopping boutique, student performances, and an afternoon reception. All guests will receive a special anniversary swag bag.

This year the homes encompass the values of the 1970s when the very first CDM Home Tour took place—family, functionality, and the evolution of unique, bold, and expressive designs. Go to cdmhometour.org for more information.

Enjoy this month’s issue and be sure to get tickets to our annual women’s event where we will celebrate!

CHRISTOPHER GIALANELLA

President/Publisher

Orange Coast Magazine

cgialanella@orangecoast.com

Instagram: @christophergia @orangecoastmag

Emma Cooper, Gina Jaha, Stacey Day, Becky Chanawatr, Stephanie Walsh

Linda Goldstein, Executive Vice President And Christopher Gialanella, President/Publisher

CHRISTOPHER GIALANELLA PHOTOGRAPH BY NIO VARDAN

Business Fraud

Beckman Coulter vs. Flextronics

$934,000,000

Largest Jury Verdict in OC History

Employment Class Action vs. OC Register

$38,000,000

Largest Class Action Settlement in OC History

Personal Injury

Neria vs. Bradshaw

$50,000,000

Largest Personal Injury Settlement in the US History

Personal Injury

Dean vs. Allied Trucking

$28,000,000

Truck Accident

• Celebrating 40th Anniversary – C&B Was Founded in 1984

Insurance

Medical Device Manufacturer vs. Farmers Insurance

$58,000,000

Largest Insurance Bad faith Judgment in OC History

Personal Injury

Vincent vs. Public Entity

$17,000,000

Bicycle Accident

• Highest jury verdict in Orange County history —$934 million in a complex business litigation trial

• Largest personal injury settlement in United States history — $50 million in a complex municipal liability case

• Taking “Bet the Company” cases to trial and winning—C&B recently obtained a 100% defense verdict in a securities class action trial on behalf of a major Southern California bank.

Luncheon Luncheon

PRESENTED BY

TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2024

THE EBELL SANTA ANA

Mix and mingle during the networking hour followed by a seated luncheon and panel discussion

Bonni Pomush CEO of Working Wardrobes

Christina M. Zabat-Fran General Counsel for LANVIN Group

FOR TICKETS, TABLES AND MORE INFO: orangecoast.com/ocwomenlunch

Dyonne M. Bergeron Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at UC Irvine

PEOPLE PLACES

IN PLAIN SIGHT

WHAT YOU'LL SEE A parade and balloons at the Dana Point Festival of Whales GETTING THERE The parade route is on Dana Point Harbor Drive from Island Way to Golden Lantern. WHAT YOU’LL FIND The 53rd annual Festival of Whales takes place from March 1 through 3 this year. For more information, go to festivalofwhales.com.

FRESH AND FUN

Explore new flavors, sounds, and even some new tricks in Huntington Beach. by Jessica Kim

GOOD TO KNOW

Open every day but Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., The Local Nod Cafe is a family-friendly diner with fun dishes and boozy options.

THE LOCAL NOD CAFE

This yearling brunch spot encourages guests to “work hard, brunch harder.” The menu starts with shareable dishes like tru ffle tots ($9) and deviled eggs ($10). Main dish options range from omelets, Benedicts, and pancakes to kalbi steak & eggs ($30), loco moco ($18), and huevos rancheros ($16). For those feeling experimental, there’s the Glazed and Confused Donut Burger ($20)—all the fixings of a gourmet burger, squeezed between two glazed donuts. Specialty cocktails, beers, and bubbles fill the booze menu, and lunch options are also available. 19079

BEACH BLVD., 714-831-0014

THE FETEER GUY

Located in Plaza De La Playa, the new Egyptian spot o ff ers a selection of traditional pastries (referred to as pies) and crepes with sweet and savory fillings. Savory pie options include cheese, beef, chicken, and seafood ($19 to $25), while sweet choices include sugar and milk, Lotus Biscoff ookie, and Nutella ($15 to $16). Crepes celebrate Middle Eastern fl avors like beef shawarma, beef sujuk, and Biscoff nd pistachio ($15 to $18). 19092

BEACH BLVD., 714-369-2171

ZOOM ROOM

The facility teaches dog training techniques that use only positive reinforcement. Expert dog trainers teach obedience, dog agility, puppy training, and enrichment workshops in the indoor, climate-controlled dog gym. Group classes are kept small, and private sessions are also available. The facility hosts exercise time during playgroups, fundraisers for rescue groups, pup birthday parties, and other canine social events. A free 30-minute orientation or a full evaluation for $25 will determine the classes needed. 19069 BEACH BLVD., 714-794-9663

VINYL SOLUTION

The storefront was opened to fulfill the community’s music needs in 1989. It has since expanded its inventory to new, used, and rare vinyl records and CDs, as well as T-shirts, collectibles, books, turntables, stereo equipment, and more. The space is filled to the brim with music and memorabilia for enthusiasts who drop in knowing what they like or arrive ready to explore. 18822

BEACH BLVD., 714-963-1819

NEW SEASON

NEW SERIES

NEW SERIES

CASINO RESORTS

Try one of these spots for a quick break, whether you gamble or not.

GUA CALIENTE RESORT CASINO SPA

ARANCHO MIRAGE goes beyond gambling with a spa and several restaurants—including The Steakhouse, with dishes such as the hamachi crudo ($25) and the filet ‘Oscar’ style ($79)—as well as a cultural museum and award-winning hot mineral spring spa nearby. With incredible views of the desert landscape, the 16-story, AAA Four Diamond resort offers perfect rooms to rest your head ($299 and up).

A short drive from the resort, THE SPA AT SÉC-HE (the sound of boiling water) is named for an ancient hot mineral spring that is protected by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Be sure to take note of the details throughout the spa, which start at the entrance—a colorful mural of the Tahquitz Canyon on the wall behind the front desk and the symbol on the floor representing the movement of water. Amenities include a cold plunge, cold shower, eucalyptus steam room, a

menthol dry sauna, a grounding room, and an acoustic wellness lounge featuring zero-gravity chairs. Relax in one of two salt rooms in the common area or head to the fitness room to try float pods that contain magnesium and 1,500 pounds of Epsom salt. Also in the fitness area is a cryotherapy chamber, which reaches negative 220 degrees. Try the 90-minute Quartz and Poultice massage ($325) where you’ll lie on a zero-gravity bed with sand quartz and air rollers as well as a cooling aloe head rest. You’ll be massaged with poultice bags before sound bowls are placed on your stomach and in between your feet.

THE AGUA CALIENTE CULTURAL MUSEUM is walking distance from the spa and has five exhibition areas that each tell part of the Agua Caliente story. After check-in, watch a 12-minute, 360-degree immersive film on the creation and migration of

The pool at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage

LET HIM ENTERTAIN YOU

Marc Wade, Canadian financier with a jones for California pop culture, is bottling his lifestyle mentality, showcasing simple luxury and quality flavors through his two newest wine brand ventures.

fter accumulating his wealth as an international nancier including a stint as the minority owner of an N L team ade is these days translating his lifelong obsession with the California lifestyle dream, as executed in the 1960s and 1970s in locales like La Jolla, Laguna and Laurel Canyon, into experiences that anyone with a few bucks and a yen for adventure can indulge, using ade s own high-end beachcomber persona as the virtual host.

ade has been perfecting his vision of the California good life to share with others. For one of his pro ects, a world-class wine dubbed Salt, for “salt of the earth,” “I hired, literally, one of the best winemakers in the United States and gave him carte blanche to do whatever on earth he wanted to, ade says. “And it turned out that he became the envy of Napa Valley, because it was like giving a ichelin-starred chef a blan chec .

Now, ade is preparing to bring to mar et a collection of wines, sold under the Vinyl label, that satis es his love of wine and classic roc and roll as well as creating an immersive, multi-sensual e perience.

ith inyl, I m celebrating what music history was, especially in California, in the ‘60s and 70s,” he says “It was such a special time, and creating an experience in a bottle with very creative labels and on the back having playlists that you can scan on your phone, I think will be fun. I envision someone sitting on their porch, taking their Bluetooth

speakers, and enjoying a bottle of Vinyl with the playlist that I put together. hat s sort of my dream, to share that.”

hat matters is people and uality and uantity of time and what you re doing, ade says. Authenticity is everything. saltvines.com

the Agua Caliente people. After the film, the first area to see is Our Land, which has full-scale replicas of the Indian Canyons and the sacred mineral hot spring. Listen to tribal members speaking about ceremonial practices and more. Then head to the Change, Adaptation, and Self-Determination area, which focuses on the timeline of the Tribe’s history starting in the 19th century with the arrival of Euro-American settlers and ending in present day. The final area, Into the Future, explores artifacts more than 8,400 years old that were recovered from the construction site of the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza where the museum is located. Don’t miss the 2,200-square-foot rotating gallery, which has featured exhibitions such as For a Love of His People: The Photography of Horace Poolaw, with incredible photos from the mid-1920s through the ’70s.

Head to Temecula and PECHANGA RESORT AND CASINO where you’ll find 800-square-foot suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the golf course and the mountains for less than $400 a night on weekdays this month. The resort is home to 10 restaurants, including Umi Sushi and Oyster Bar, where the delicious food will surprise and inspire you. Golf plus The Cove swimming area (open spring through early fall) ensure you’ll fill your days. At night, entertainment this month includes Brian Setzer, Smokey Robinson, and the 2024 Dancing With The Stars Tour. Be sure to leave plenty of time to visit the enormous Spa Pechanga. Head into 25,000 square feet of bliss to rejuvenate your spirit and skin with nature-inspired experiences such as the luxury

lavender massage ($200) or the 80-minute Great Oak signature massage treatment—full body Himalayan salt stone massage, reflexology foot massage, and Kukui coconut oil scalp massage ($295). Indulge in hot tubs, a steam room, the sauna, and quiet areas before or after your treatment.

The newest addition to the local casino-based resorts, YAAMAVA’ RESORT AND CASINO goes all in for huge names to highlight concerts at the theater. Stars such as Andrea Bocelli and Teddy Swims will headline there this month. Add an overnight and experience the accommodations ($500 and up) and several dining options, including The Pines Modern Steakhouse.

Chelsea Raineri and Alan Gibbons contributed to this report.

LEFT: The Cove recreation area at Pechanga Resort and Casino is open from spring through early fall and includes water slides and an adults-only pool.

RIGHT: The Spa at Séc-he treatment tables feature layered gemstones, light therapy, infrared heat, and grounding earthing pads.

FAREWELL FOLLIES

After a long and successful run, the CHOC Follies event raising funds for Children’s Hospital Orange County through community performance has reached its grand finale. Catch the final production at the Robert B. Moore theater in Costa Mesa on March 29 and 30. by Astgik Khatchatryan

25 Years since the CHOC Follies was founded in 1997 by the late Gloria Zigner

$11 MILLION+ Funds ne˜ed by the event since its inception

52,500

A˜endees over the years

5 Venues the event has been held in, not including two tents and one virtual performance

1,500 Number of cast and crew who have participated

100+ Performances, with themes including this year’s “Choctopia: The Finish Line”

THE GRAND DESIGN

Laguna Beach author Suzanne Redfearn’s novel “Where Butterflies Wander” follows a grief-stricken family struggling to start fresh and heal. by Grace Murray

Redfearn—an architect, author, andrestaurateur (she and her husband, Cary, own Lumberyard and Slice Pizza in Laguna Beach)—takes readers on a tumultuous journey in her latest novel. When a young girl dies in a tragic accident, her parents and three surviving siblings escape to their estate in New Hampshire, desperate to heal their grief. Marie, the headstrong mother, plans to sell the estate. Upon arrival, they meet Davina, known locally as “the river witch,” who lives on the property in a cabin that she claims was given to her by Marie’s grandfather. The two women struggle to see eye to eye as Marie attempts to evict Davina, while Davina fights to stay. But fate has a di erent plan for them all.

What made you want to start writing?

I was doing (architecture), but I had way too much creative energy. A girlfriend of mine and I used to get together with our kids on Friday nights and chat, and we were talking about this old movie from the 1950s. And I was like, “Oh my gosh, this is a great story concept that would still work today.” I sat down to write down the concept, and I wrote till three in the morning. It just started spilling out of me. I thought, this is ridiculous. I mean, I’ve never written anything longer than my architectural dissertation. But I was having so much fun.

What inspired you to write “Where Bu tt er flies Wander”?

I had this concept of grief and death, a family who loses somebody, and how each one of those members are coping

with it. Then I happened upon a newspaper article about this guy called River Dave. River Dave is a veteran, he’s in his 80s, and he’s been squattin on this littletimberland cabin in New Hampshire for like 27 years. He’s like the beloved character of this town. I was so intrigued by the story. So “Where Butterfls Wander” became a story about what’s valuable. There are these two conflicing forces of this family going through grief, this woman who’s squattin on their land. And ultimately, they heal each other.

How would you describe the structure of the book?

It’s all from six separate points of view, which is a lot for me. If I was going to summarize the premise of this, I would use the butterfly effect The flutt of wings on one side of the Earth changes

the entire atmosphere on the other side of the Earth. In this story, a speck of dirt on an assembly line in China creates a pin prick hole in a floaie that causes a drowning and alters two families’ lives. Because it’s not just the Egide family who have lost their daughter, but it’s also Davina who is living on this land and has also lost her daughter. When you really look at the storyline, it’s Davina and it’s Marie, who are two mothers on their healing journeys. Ultimately, these two women are at odds with each

other, and have completely diffeent perspectives.

How do you develop the characters in your books?

I don’t just throw a character in; I want you as a reader to not be sure who you’re rooting for and to understand each perspective. I try very hard not to make bad guys; I think they’re boring. As your main protagonists, I think you’re much bette off hving two protagonists who you at least understand. You get a much more interesting story.

A Broadway Birthday:

Sondheim, Lloyd Webber, and Friends!

8 pm

March 28

A star-studded one-night-only tribute to modern musical theatre’s two greatest composers with:

• Betty Buckley

• Matthew Morrison

• Liz Callaway

• Alex Joseph Grayson

• Aaron Lazar

• Kerry O’Malley

DON’T MISS IN MARCH

Lyle Lovett, new OCMA exhibit, and more by Robin Jones

MARCH 1 THROUGH 17

“DEATHTRAP”

Famous playwright Sidney Bruhl is struggling to write something new when a former student, Cli ord Anderson, sends him an unpublished play, asking for feedback. Sidney invites Cli ord to his home and suggests to his wife that he might kill Clifford and assume authorship of his play. The show was one of Broadway’s biggest hits in the 1970s and ’80s and was nominated for four Tony Awards. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-489-8082, caminorealplayhouse.org

OPENS MARCH 2

“SPIRITUAL GEOGRAPHIES: RELIGION AND LANDSCAPE ART IN CALIFORNIA, 1890 -1930”

The exhibit of California landscape paintings considers how religion influenced the way the state’s natural beauty and resources were depicted. Early landscape art was often used in religious printed materials that described new and old spiritual ideas, painting California as a place that welcomed individual expression. Rare books and archival materials round out the exhibit. UCI Institute and Museum of Cali-

MARCH 15

JANE MONHEIT

Vocalist Jane Monheit has collaborated with some of jazz’s biggest names: Terence Blanchard, John Pizzarelli, and Michael Bublé, to name a few. Singing everything from jazz standards to classic torch songs and contemporary pop, she has performed in the world’s most iconic venues, including Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

fornia Art, 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949-476-0294, imca.uci.edu

MARCH 3

JUSTIN ROBERTS

A rockstar for the under-10 set, Roberts and his band, the Not Ready for Naptime Players, have performed their catchy tunes about growing up on stages across the globe. His most recent album, “Space Cadet,” follows his Grammy-nominated 2018 release, “Wild Life,” a collection of lullabies inspired by the birth of his son. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu

MARCH 7 THROUGH 10

“COPPEL - I.A.”

The new evening-length work by Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo choreographer and director Jean-Christophe Maillot modernizes the famous ballet “Coppélia.” In the new version, the relationship between two young lovers, Frantz and Swanhilda, is disrupted by an artificial being, raising the question of how we search for love in the age of A.I. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

MARCH 8 AND 9

WITTE LECTURE: RICHARD REEVES

In a lecture titled “Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do about It,” Reeves, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, will discuss how social and economic forces have upended the traditional role of men in society, leaving many adrift. Solutions, he posits, have focused too much on men themselves, rather than the real culprit: social structures surrounding masculine success that have not been reinvented—but must be for boys and men to thrive. Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949-5482411, nbplf.foundation

MARCH 8 AND 9

LYLE LOVETT

Four-time Grammy Award winner Lyle Lovett performs his greatest hits backed by the Pacific Symphony in a concert led by guest conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez. A member of the Austin City Lights Hall of Fame, the alt-country artist has released 13 albums and 25 singles over his nearly 45year career. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

OPENS MARCH 9

“ASIAN COMICS: EVOLUTION OF AN ART FORM”

By displaying original Asian comics art next to the books in which they were printed, the exhibit explores the art of visual storytelling in India, the Philippines, Indonesia, China, Korea, Japan, and more. Well-known artists and influential creators are represented among the more than 500 works in the show, which includes Japanese woodblock prints, Hindu scroll paintings, digital media, printed comics, and contemporary illustrations. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714-567-3600, bowers.org

MARCH 9

FRED HERSCH AND ETHEL

Jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader Fred Hersch is known for his innovative improvisational skills and has been honored with jazz’s most prestigious awards, including the 2018 Jazz Pianist of the Year from the Jazz Journalist Association. Grammy Award-winning string quartet ETHEL will join him on stage for the performance. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

MARCH 9

A THOUSAND THOUGHTS:

KRONOS QUARTET

For the past 50 years, the Kronos Quartet has helped to redefine the purpose and place of the classical string quartet. The musicians again are challenging the norms: David Harrington (violin), John Sherba (violin), Hank Dutt (viola), and Paul Wiancko (cello) will play the score to a documentary that details the group’s career via archival footage and interviews with members of the quartet and their famous collaborators, while creator Sam Green narrates the film live on stage. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu

MARCH 13 THROUGH 31

“A SHAYNA MAIDEL”

Set in New York City in 1946, the play follows a pair of sisters, Rose and Lusia, who

OPENS MARCH 15

“COLOR IS THE FIRST REVELATION OF THE WORLD”

Curated by Heidi Zuckerman, OCMA’s CEO and director, the exhibit examines how color and form intersect. The show, anchored by monochromatic works in various shades of blue, includes large-scale sculptural installations by Brazilian artist Hélio Oiticica and American artist Chris Burden that focus on how color shapes our perception of reality. Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714780-2130, ocma.art

were forced to separate when Rose and her father escaped Poland during the Holocaust. Lusia, who survived the concentration camps, and Rose struggle to reconnect but ultimately come together through the power of family and faith. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

MARCH 14

ALTAN

Hailing from Donegal, Ireland, the Celtic group has been performing around the world for more than 35 years. Vocalist Mairéad Ni Mhaonaigh and musicians on the double guitar, fiddle, accordion, and bouzouki will play everything from old Irish folk songs to upbeat reels and jigs. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

MARCH 14 THROUGH 16

MAHLER’S FIFTH

Guest conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto leads the Pacific Symphony in a performance of Mahler’s exuberant Symphony No. 5, most recently made famous by the 2022 film “Tár.” Gabriela Ortiz’s “Kauyumari” and Hadyn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 begin the evening’s program. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

MARCH 21

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

Since its work on Paul Simon’s “Graceland” catapulted the group into the spotlight in 1986, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has won five Grammy Awards, more than any other world music group. The signature vocal harmonies, dancing, and onstage banter brings warmth and heart to performances of songs that blend traditional South African music with contemporary sounds. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

MARCH 22 AND 23

DISNEY PRINCESS – THE CONCERT

The celebration of some of the most iconic songs from Disney films stops here on its national 39-city tour. Broadway stars Syndee Winters (“The Lion King,” “Hamilton”) and Alyssa Fox (“Wicked”) join West End star Hiba Elchikhe (“Aladdin,” “The Time Traveler’s Wife”) to sing hits such as “Part of Your World,” “Let It Go,” and “A Whole New World” as scenes from the animated films are shown on screen. City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-712-2700, citynationalgroveofanaheim.com

OPENS MARCH 23

“ON THE EDGE: LOS ANGELES ART FROM THE JOAN AND JACK QUINN FAMILY COLLECTION”

From the 1960s to 2000s, benefactors Joan and Jack Quinn amassed a collection of works that together represent the history of the contemporary art scene in Los Angeles at the end of the 20th century. The exhibit highlights the Quinns’ support of important California artists like Frank Gehry, David Hockney, Ed Moses, and Ed Ruscha and includes artwork commissioned and acquired by the couple. Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cli Drive, Laguna Beach, 949-494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org

MARCH 27

LAWRENCE BROWNLEE

Brownlee, an internationally acclaimed tenor who performs in opera houses around the world, will perform songs from the Harlem Renaissance. Over the past decade, he’s gained international recognition for his performances in the bel canto repertoire, as well as his advocacy for diversity in the industry. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844626-8726, muscocenter.org

MARCH 27

BACKHAUSDANCE

Orange County-based Backhausdance is known for its emotional, athletic performances. The ensemble will perform a reimagining of fan favorite “Love and Other Impossibilities,” choreographed by the group’s founder and artistic director Jennifer Backhaus, along with work from Backhausdance associate artistic director Amanda Kay White and guest choreographers Peter Chu and FLOCK’s Alice Klock and Florian Lochner. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-8544646, thebarclay.org

MARCH 28

A BROADWAY BIRTHDAY: SONDHEIM, LLOYD WEBBER AND FRIENDS

To celebrate Andrew Lloyd Webber and

MARCH 19 THROUGH 31

“MJ THE MUSICAL”

The Tony Award-winning musical dramatizes the making of Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour, o ering a look inside the pop superstar’s creative process. With a book by two-time Pulitzer winner Lynn Nottage and choreography by Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon, it features more than 25 of Jackson’s biggest hits, including “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and “Man in the Mirror.” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

Stephen Sondheim’s shared March 22 birthday, a group of Broadway stars will perform a selection of favorites by the two iconic composers. Betty Buckley, Matthew Morrison, Liz Callaway, Alex Joseph Grayson, Aaron Lazar, and Kerry O’Malley will take turns on the stage. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714556-2787, scfta.org

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SERGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo Coppél-i.A.

Choreography by Jean-Christophe Maillot

The extraordinary dance company makes a triumphant return to SoCal with their latest masterpiece—a stunning new vision of the classic ballet.

Photo by Alice Blangero

SPRING BREAK

SHOP COMMON THREAD

Visit the pop-up at Fashion Island through June. by

Chelsea Raineri

Stephani Clymer opened a maternity boutique in Costa Mesa in 2006 before rebranding to Shop Common Thread in 2016, a women’s clothing and accessories store. In December, she launched her Fashion Island pop-up where customers can find everything from Paige denim and Supergoop sunscreen to O.C.-based brands including Z Supply, Paradigm Design, and Cleobella. “I feel like what sets us apart is the women who work here—it feels like you’re shopping with a girlfriend,” Clymer says.

Customers can indulge in snacks, beer, or Champagne as they shop, and little ones can grab a cup of hot chocolate and read books from the small library inside the kids’ room, located next to the dressing area. Consider signing up for Shop Common Thread’s loyalty program, which o ers 15% o each purchase after a $50 fee for a yearlong membership.

Keep an eye on Instagram for try-on videos, where shop employees model outfits. “Clients can see a real woman put it on,” Clymer says. “A lot of clients will come in and say, ‘She’s my try-on girl because I have her body; I always buy what she wears because I’m built like her.’ ” Stay tunned for the announcement for an upcoming event with Z Supply as well as the opening of Shop Common Thread’s San Juan Capistrano store, which is coming soon to the new River Street Marketplace.

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.

cardigan, $1,100, wool skirt, $750, and brushed calfskin Campo

Jane mules, $1,200, Loewe, South Coast Plaza, 714-464-7420

3 Celine by Hedi Slimane cardigan jacket in bouclé tweed, $3,950, Celine, South Coast Plaza, 714-957-1255

4 Veneta compact wool midi skirt, $3,300, Saks Fi° h Avenue, South Coast Plaza, 714-540-3233

5 Paolo Nora pointed-toe ˛ ats, $130, Nordstrom, Fashion Island, 949-610-0700

6 Penelope medium so° shoulder bag, $3,090, Chloé, South Coast Plaza, 714-481-0308

2 wool wool skirt, $750, 1 3 5

Hedi Slimane 2 4 6

4

5 Linea Bo ega

WISDOM FROM a wine expert

WINE AND DINE

$25 MILLION

Laguna Beach

à 5,144 squar e eet

à 4 bedrooms

à 7 athrooms

à Enjoy views of the ocean and Santa Catalin a sland rom every room.

à Of note: nside the dining room sits a lass-enclose d ine storage wall tha t an hold 00 o tt les.

à 32 N. a Senda Drive à Andy Stavros, 949-290-0139

Arden Gilfillan is the cofounder of Argaux, a Costa Mesa-based wine company. She shares her favorite wines to enjoy at home.

PAIRING A WINE …

I like unexpected pairings. I love Champagne, which I think is an underrated wine. It’s also one of the most food-friendly wines out there. I love Champagne with a cheeseburger or a seafood pasta dish. I also love a dry Riesling or a grüner veltliner; those types of wines are really acidic … and are friendly with spicy, flavorful foods including Thai food or Asian fusion.

SAVING A BOTTLE …

If you open a bottle of wine and don’t fi nish it, put it back in the fridge with the cork in it and it should be good for up to four days, depending on the wine. The key is stable temperature and no direct sunlight.

ARGAUX’S BLIND TASTE TEST

KIT …

It’s great for dinner parties. It strips away the preconceived

notions about what you like and what you don’t like; you can just have fun with it. We have the tasting kits online, and they’re available in two, three, or four configurations; you can customize it to be all red wine, all white wine, or mixed. There’s a booklet inside that we created with our team of sommeliers that guides you through the tasting.

MODERN WARE MARKET

Dani Wolters created an inviting living space in her Costa Mesa storefront. by Chelsea Raineri

Wolters started her home decor brand online in 2020. In November last year, she opened her brick and mortar at SOCO. “I actually had a vision for this since I was in high school,” she says. “It

was always a dream of mine to own a store like this.” She wants customers to walk in and feel at home; she accomplished that by creating a kitchen and living area that display products in a way someone might at their own house.

4 MIRROR

“Obviously it’s not a real fireplace, so I had the idea of pu˜ ing the antiqued mirror tiles in the center there, so it had the feeling of one.”

5 ARTWORK “It is handpainted, and I love the texture in it. It has kind of a plaster feel to it and makes the space more dynamic.”

6 WOODEN PIECES

“Those are reclaimed-wood carvings from India.”

1 STOOL

“The abstract shape is really coming back into style. It can be a plant stand or even a side table; I love everything being multifunctional,” Wolters says.

2 FIREPLACE “It is actually made to look like limestone, but it’s concrete. It’s handmade by a local company.”

3 SCULPTURE “I love this because it’s so unexpected. It’s a handmade iron sculpture.”

FOOD DRINK

SEASONAL FARMERS BOWL

THE DISH Roasted beets, green apples, goat cheese, and candied pecans highlight this dish, which can be upgraded with protein. THE DETAILS This is one of three bounteous salads at Webb’s: Tokyo and taco salads also tempt those looking for a healthy meal. THE PRICE $16 THE PLACE Webb’s Grainworks TURN THE PAGE for our review.

WEBB’S GRAINWORKS

Great pub food meets on-site distilling in an o eat space in Aliso Viejo. by Gretchen Kurz

This is the best restaurant in Aliso Viejo,” announces my friend as we scan the cocktail menu at Webb’s Grainworks. His declaration is 100% hyperbole, given that we have yet to take a sip or eat a bite at this newborn indie eatery with a boozy heritage. But I understand his enthusiasm; the cavernous venue is an unexpected wonderland of novel food and drink o erings—a surprise September arrival in a ’burb teeming with chains and franchise operations.

For the moment, we skip the fresh beers and fixate on 20 signature cocktails that all feature spirits with a Webb’s brand—most bottlings are even distilled or barrel-aged on site. From an icy martini of Grove gin with olives freshly stu ed with blue cheese to the Nauti vodka lavender lemon drop to a classic Old-Fashioned fueled with Purloiner bourbon, the libations succeed in showing o the house brands. They’re also a value at $14. The drinks sustain us as we ogle the maximalist decor and decipher a menu categorized like a compass—a hot chicken sandwich makes sense under South, but why are the BLT and whipped ricotta-feta dip designated North?

Despite the contrived layout, the menu of global comfort food features hearty pub grub elevated with craft and originality. Most diners are consuming Webb’s house brews or spirits, so options are meaty, carb-heavy, and rich—supplying welcome heft to temper booze absorption. Think sizzling shrimp hush puppies with bourbon honey butter or the Korean hot wings with sticky rice, pickled daikon, and buttermilk dressing. Tangy whipped feta-ricotta dip is an appealing

shareable with unctuous tomato confit, herby crostini, and fresh cucumber spears. Hot mustard can’t save the goat cheese wontons that are leaden and chalky. Instead, choose corn ribs fresh o the cob jazzed with alderwood-smoked sea salt and zippy yuzu kosho dipping sauce.

Our chipper server has answers for every question, including “What was here before this place?” She explains it was a popular event center, which she visited years ago on a grade-school field trip. The center also served as a home for the private stash of rare automobiles collected by businessman Lew Webb over his many successful decades in the auto industry. It’s tucked into a nondescript light industrial neighborhood with zero retail tra c, so it’s easy to see how Webb’s son Jeremy could convert the tilt-up into a brewery, distillery, and restaurant while staying o the radar. Vestiges of Lew Webb’s collection contribute much personality to the 104-seat space—retro Ford and Buick signage

«««

7 Journey Aliso Viejo

5 BEST DISHES

à Shrimp hush puppies à Straight to the Point burger à Smoky corn ribs à Barbecue brisket sandwich à Bourbon Puffle sundae

PRICE RANGE

Shareables, $14 to $17

Burgers and sandwiches, $14 to $19

Mains, $14 to $24

FYI: No reservations accepted; use Toast app to join waitlist.

LEFT: Clockwise from top: Barbecue brisket sandwich, The Cure bowl, ahi nui bowl, and a brown butter Old-Fashioned

RIGHT: Novel food and drinks combine with fascinating decor at Webb’s Grainworks

FOOD DRINK MAIN COURSE

shines brightly, a repurposed Santa Fe Railway caboose supplies patio seating, and no eyes can miss the restored Ford Model T suspended over diners like a Macy’s parade balloon.

A meandering bar flanked by three flatscreens anchors the highceilinged dining space. On my midday visits, the bar was populated by many a solo guy downing a pint from the dozen taps dispensing Webb’s craft brews. Choices span a creative roster of styles, flavors, and ABVs from Super Crisp (4.4%) to Hazy IPA (7.0%) to Oatmeal Stout (5.6%). Pints are $7 or $8, half-pints are $5. There’s even an orange-prickly pear seltzer made with the Nautilus vodka. Brews can only be consumed on-site (though an adjacent bottle shop sells spirits and merch).

Mighty fine burgers and thick, robust sandwiches are high points and shoo-ins for pairing with beers—this kitchen is accomplished in the meat department. House-baked buns and breads also contribute to the winning

formulas. Choose from three wagyu burgers, all double-patty smashers. Gooey American cheese, heirloom tomato, onion, and house-made pickles dress up the two patties in the Webb’s Classic burger. House-cured bacon, sharp cheddar, and crispy onions add Western notes to the Rancho Cap. burger with its fromscratch barbecue sauce. Nutty Gruyere cheese and caramelized onions add sophisticated notes to the doublesmash Straight to the Point burger.

Two-handed sandwiches include a brined, hot fried chicken on a grilled bun with spicy pickles and crunchy coleslaw. Terrific smoked brisket shines on thick toast with rich barbecue sauce. Beautiful site-smoked pastrami needs only pickles and mustard on grilled bread to dazzle. Burgers and sandwiches include a choice of seven sides such as fries, chili, kimchi, mac salad, or latkis. Latkis are Webb’s ri on tater tots—fried potato orbs perfect for nibbling as-is or smothered with beer cheese, brisket, or carnitas.

Yes, there are salads—three bounteous bowls: Tokyo (a play on mandarin chicken); taco salad with black beans and charred corn; and seasonal farmers bowl with roasted beets, green apples, and goat cheese. The Cure is a high-comfort steamy bowl of dark dashi loaded with egg noodles, sprouts, pork belly, and a half-pour of beer—playing the role of “hair of the dog.” Chef’s S’mores and Bourbon Pu e (must be 21) are the worthiest desserts—both are elaborate and messy treats built for sharing.

After years of chasing down standout restaurants, Webb’s Grainworks delivered something rare in my book—a first. A kitchen, brewery, distillery, and bottle shop under one roof is an O.C. unicorn—a very welcome one if massive dinner crowds are any indication. If the wait is too long, you could buy a bottle of dandy Butterball bourbon—just don’t drink it in the parking lot. The Aliso Viejo Police Department is three doors down.

ALISO VIEJO

CYNTHIA VIGIL

The restaurateur and her husband have opened seven restaurants in seven years, notably Julep Cast Iron Kitchen in Brea. New Benny & Mary’s in Irvine includes fun, sophisticated cocktails and cuisine as well as Vigil’s whimsical, spectacular decor.

by Benjamin Epstein

WHERE’D YOU GET DESIGN SKILLS?

I had a fashion tech company. … We partnered emerging fashion designers with celebrity stylists, who put their designs on Beyoncé and other clients, which we’d then market and sell.

AND THEN?

When I got out of the company, I moved back to my hometown, Whittier … and there was no good food! We opened a little co ee shop so we could have a good cup of co ee and avocado toast; it just blew up from there.

HOW DO YOU SPLIT THE DUTIES?

I do all the day-to-day operations, and (my husband) Chad, who has a military background, does the big scary stu . I say, “Chad, I need Captain Reinhardt to call the city.” He puts on his Captain Reinhardt hat and gets it done.

WHAT IS “ECCENTRIC CUISINE” AT BENNY & MARY’S?

Eclectic, non-pretentious, sometimes silly. Thai mussels and a mu uletta and vegan meatloaf on the same menu. A little fancy but not bougie—you can just let go!

ANY SECRET TALENTS?

I type very fast—freakishly fast, usually aggressively.

THINGS

WE LOVE

Irvine

The origins of MALAIA’S MICROGREENS are humble—a 100-square-foot shed. Now the indoor hydroponic farm supplies microgreens, edible flowers, and specialty herbs to chefs. The public can order subscription boxes ($35 to $65) to get fresh greens weekly or monthly.

malaiasmicrogreens.com

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MALAIA’S MICROGREENS

BEDEVILED!

The deviling is in the details for these alluring egg starters. by Benjamin

Epstein

STAGECOACH COUNTRY ROADHOUSE

Overstu ed Bacon & Eggs tops the openers at Wild Thyme restaurant group’s Shorebird Coastal Kitchen in Newport Beach. Now you can enjoy the show-stopping starter at new Stagecoach, too. The ornate deviled eggs, by Wild Thyme culinary director Jay Bogsinske, are presented with celery slices, bacon lardons, chives, and smoked paprika atop a pickled cucumber. Stagecoach favorites also include avocado fries, lemon Caesar, the Loaded Gun Board barbecue platter, and margaritas on tap. The new restaurant is opposite MainPlace. 763 S. Main St., Orange, 657-600-8828, stagecoachroadhouse.com

SOLSTICE

Virtually every dish at stylish Solstice Seasonal Kitchen changes with the seasons, as the name suggests, but one hasn’t changed since Day One: the Deviled Egg Jar. The venue prides itself on whimsical plating, and this appetizer is no exception. Deconstructing classic deviled eggs—hard-boiled egg whites filled with mashed yolks—it layers the whites with a sweet pickle-celery relish and whipped yolk dusted with paprika in a mason jar alongside toasted focaccia. It’s o ered at every meal but seems especially suited to a boozy brunch with Four Roses Bourbon-enhanced Spiked Co ee. 18555 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949-241-7088, dineatsolstice.com

HQ GASTROPUB

The pop-culture-inspired spot below ShorebreakHotel presents global fare in concert-themed categories such as Rockin’ sushi, Greenroom salads, and Headliners entrees. It touts meals of “high quality— hence the name HQ,” and that for sure goes for the deviled eggs under Opening Act appetizers. Limeavocado mash, lardon-laden bacon jam, green onion, and smoked paprika crown five “over-medium” halves presented amid balsamicglaze dots. Nestled within, ocean-view speakeasy Graceland o ers its own menu, elaborate cocktails, and 1970s music. 155 5th St., Huntington Beach, 714-369-2155, hqgastropub.com

BREW HAWG BBQ

Down-home, fast-casual Brew Hawg o ers a new world of deviled eggs: Fans of pitmaster Leo Martinez’s barbecue fare top his Hawg Eggs with a choice of eight meats such as brisket, pork belly, and vegetarian “chicken” along with a barbecue-sauce drizzle. Highly original starters also include a wa e cone stu ed with mac & cheese and choice of meat and capped with a scoop of smokedgarlic mashed potatoes. The Momo layers that garlic mash with coconut creamed corn and a choice of meat. Which combo main to get—Judgment, Heaven, or Damnation—depends solely on the number of meats you’d like. 665 N. Tustin St., Orange, 714-502-4053, brewhawg.com

TRAVEL Spring

Spring Break is Here!

The weather is sparkling and if you don’t have travel plans ready to go, here are a few Southern California destinations to inspire that perfect springtime getaway.

SUNRIVER RESORT

Situated in the scenic Cascade Range of central Oregon, moments south of Bend and nearby Mt. Bachelor, Sunriver Resort is a 3,300-acre all-season wilderness retreat where guests of all ages enjoy unrivaled access to heartfelt experiences deeply rooted in the land and traditions of this uncommon setting.

Family- and pet-friendly accommodations range from River Lodge Villas and Lodge Village guest rooms to vacation homes in the Sunriver Collection and coveted Caldera Springs residential resort community.

Sunriver Resort is more than just a resort; it’s a dynamic collection of natural attractions and nature-inspired amenities. Each amenity is a destination of its own. Together, they form a playground of experiences that welcomes guests to discover their favorite places and activities. For some, it’s the indoor-outdoor aquatic playground, the Cove, or the iconic trail network, with 40 miles of paved bike paths. For others, it’s one of Sunriver Resort’s four celebrated golf courses or Sage Springs Club & Spa. For many, it’s the dining venues that cater to every taste and occasion and the annual events and traditions that bring locals and guests together. At Sunriver Resort, there is something for everyone.

17600

sunriverresort.com

The Pacific Northwest’s Treasured Outpost for Adventure

Unfolding across 3,300 forested acres, just moments from Bend, Oregon, Sunriver Resort is an all-season playground for adventure. Tee off on one of our four award-winning golf courses, savor unique culinary dishes in one of our many restaurants, experience the beauty of Sunriver while paddling the scenic Deschutes River, explore natural wonders across 40 miles of paved bike paths, rejuvenate at Sage Springs Club & Spa, and drift down the fresh powder of Mt. Bachelor’s ski slopes. At Sunriver Resort, there is something for everyone.

ISLAND SPA CATALINA

Relax, rejuvenate and play in blissfull paradise (open seasonally)

DESCANSO BEACH CLUB

Savor regional favorites and classic Catalina cocktails at Avalon's unique beachside restaurant

33 billion pounds of plastic enter the ocean every year

Our ocean sustains life. But now they are being filled and killed by plastic pollution. 33 billion pounds every year. Join the campaign to save the oceans. Oceana.org/plastics

© Oceana/Danny Ocampo

© Oceana/Patrick Mustain

SCENE SEEN

DUX IN TUX

The Anaheim Ducks hosted the 23rd annual Dux in Tux presented by Honda at Honda Center. The soldout event featured Ducks players, coaches, and broadcasters as “sous chefs” paired with 30 chefs. More than 450 guests enjoyed an evening of stellar food and great company, while raising funds for the Anaheim Ducks Foundation, which facilitates programs such as Ducks S.C.O.R.E. (Scholastic Curriculum of Recreation & Education), Learn to Play and more.

1. Player Cam Fowler with Chef Ernie Alvarado from Urbana

2. Chef and Ducks player Frank Vatrano cook.

3. The ambience of Dux in Tux at Honda Center

4. Louie’s by the Bay table

5. Player Adam Henrique serves food.

ORANGE COAST’S TOP DOCTORS RECEPTION

With the help of UCI Health, Orange Coast celebrated the 2024 Physicians of Excellence named by the Orange County Medical Association at the annual Top Doctors Reception on the Rooftop Terrace of Orange County Museum of Art in Costa Mesa.

Attendees sampled tastings from top restaurants such as Old Brea Chop House, Sushi Roku, Verdant, The Yellow Chilli, Starfish, Bosscat

Kitchen & Libations, TEN Sushi & Cocktail Bar, Byblos Mediterranean Café, Sweetgreen, Kitchen 1726, Descanso Mexican Restaurant, and Miss Mini Donuts. Beverages were served by Green Cheek Beer, Hi-Time Wine Cellars and New Zealand Wine Navigator. Co ee, tea, and juice were provided by Sunbliss Cafe and water from Acqua Panna and S. Pellegrino. Highlights included a whiskey tasting by Cask X, tequila tastings from Tequila Skorpios 1618, and the Orange Coast cover photo booth. Congratulations to the 2024 Top Doctors in Orange County!

Pictures and video at orangecoast.com

3

1. Guests arrive

2. Cask X provided a whiskey tasting experience.

3. Orange County Museum of Art

4. Hearts of Palm Ceviche from Verdant

5. Cover doctor Sanjay Grover and Nina Grover

6. Linda Goldstein, Chris Gialanella, William Woo, and Jim Peterson

7. Team sweetgreen

8. Platinum sponsor UCI Health

9. Geo ff Abbo tt , Daniel Yanni, Laura Mealer, and Tahseen Mozaff ar

10. Chris Gialanella with Kiro and Mary Awad

11. Roo ftop Terrace at Orange County Museum of Art

ANGELS

SPEAKER SERIES HONORS CONNIE SPENUZZA

Orange County philanthropist, arts advocate, and award-winning author Connie Spenuzza was honored for her commitment to the arts in January at Verdant at Orange County Museum of Art in Costa Mesa. A book talk was hosted by Angels of the Arts, Segerstrom Center for the Arts’s group of donors dedicated to contributing to art expansion.

1.

TOP DENTIST

2024

ORANGE COUNTY’S LEADING DENTAL PROFESSIONALS

Cosmetic Dentistry

Ahmed Elgazar

Tustin

949-413-1610

Endontics

Farah Abbassi

Huntington Beach 714-847-8600

Arin Alexander Orange 714-288-8565

Richard Angell III Newport Beach 949-640-0020

Moji E. Bagheri Laguna Beach 949-715-0770

David C. Beachler Orange 714-637-0976

Daniel J. Boehne

Dana Point 949-441-5965

John R. Buoncristiani Corona Del Mar 949-763-3004

Robert J. Cavalieri Newport Beach 949-644-0595

William Y. Chen Fullerton 714-738-6651

Jason Cho Irvine 949-377-0299

Janice Chou Newport Beach 949-706-5080

Wayland Chu Laguna Hills 949-581-8890

Denny Y. Fang Irvine 949-751-2089

Fariborz Farsio Huntington Beach 714-847-3513

Daniel Fife Mission Viejo 949-273-5505

Patrick Garrett Garden Grove 714-799-2888

Sam R. Gharib Irvine 949-857-3636

Joseph H. Greiner Anaheim 714-774-8360

Rodney D. Ida Tustin 714-547-8494

Samuel H. Ip Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-4819

Reza Izadi Lake Forest 949-305-0202

Reuben Johnson Irvine 949-561-1833

Lars Björn Jönsson Laguna Hills 949-581-8890

Jeffrey Kawilarang Fullerton 714-738-6651

Ankit Keshav Irvine 949-561-1833

John Lies Garden Grove 714-799-2888

Sharon Lu Fountain Valley 714-962-3636

Saman Malkami Fullerton 714-871-8422

Fay Mansouri Irvine 949-540-9891

Amir Mohseni Laguna Hills 949-597-0020

Jacob Otis Corona Del Mar 949-763-3004

Jeffrey R. Pene Newport Beach 949-644-0595

Karen S. Potter San Clemente 949-661-9680

Reid V. Pullen Brea 714-529-9029

Wyatt Simons San Clemente 949-498-2115

Charles Tatosian Mission Viejo 949-830-3132

Seyed Aliakbar Vahdati Newport Beach 949-631-3380

Richard C. Wittenauer Newport Beach 949-729-2200

General Dentistry

Kareem N. Abraham Santa Ana 714-543-8396

Randolph E. Aguilera Irvine 949-936-0022

Farzin Allameh

Newport Coast 949-706-1711

David Alley Placentia 714-524-0207

Alexandria N. Arditti Huntington Beach 714-677-8469

Joseph Mina Atalla Santa Ana 714-285-0500

Frank T. Chang Irvine 949-559-9333

Briana Chavez Santa Ana 714-439-9800

Andrew Saeyun Choi Mission Viejo 949.951.3044

Anita Chou Irvine 949-786-1188

Stephen H. Chou Fullerton 714-525-2338

Lilian Cifarelli Dana Point 949-661-5841

Jeff Coleman Huntington Beach 714-847-7733

William R. Dapper San Clemente 949-492-1984

Shireen Dejbakhsh

Santa Ana 714-549-3341

Dimple Desai Newport Beach 949-996-9375

Madhavi Janak Desai Santa Ana 714-541-4411

Jennifer Eli Lake Forest 949-916-9670

Baher S. Fahmy Tustin 714-731-6100

Haleh Fazeli Laguna Beach 949-494-1445

Paul Ferraro Mission Viejo 949-990-3380

Mary E. Fiedler Laguna Niguel 949-249-3473

Dominic Gaspar Huntington Beach 714-963-3555

Kelly Gibson Huntington Beach 714-596-6690

Brian Michael Green Newport Beach 949-706-0777

Shine Bright

Dr. Simpson is a compassionate and skilled general and cosmetic dentist who has been serving the Yorba Linda community since 2023. She is the founder of Diamond Dentistry, a state-of-the-art dental practice that offers a wide range of services to meet the needs and preferences of her patients.

Dr. Simpson has a diverse educational background that re ects her passion for helping people. She graduated with a degree in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara and continued her education with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. She then pursued her dream of becoming a dentist and earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from USC Dental School.

Dr. Simpson is committed to providing the highest quality of care to her patients and staying updated on the latest advances in dentistry. She is a certi ed Invisalign Preferred Provider and a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Orange County Dental Society. She also takes continuing education courses to enhance her skills and knowledge in various aspects of dentistry.

Dr. Simpson believes that dentistry is more than just xing teeth; it is about building lasting relationships with her patients based on trust and respect. She strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment where patients can feel at ease and con dent in their smile. Dr. Simpson enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and reading in her spare time.

If you are looking for a dentist who cares about you as a person and not just a patient, Dr. Simpson is the one for you. Contact Diamond Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference that Dr. Simpson can make for your oral health and smile.

HEATHER SIMPSON, D.D.S.

I am immensely thankful for the community of people who have become more than just patients to me, but also my friends and my strongest allies. My vision for my practice has always been clear: I want to offer dental and cosmetic services that enhance health and well-being, and provide resources that cultivate self-con dence so that everyone can live their best lives! When we look our best, we feel the best. When we feel our best, we can face the world with con dence and readiness to overcome any challenge.”

ANITA BHAVNANI, DMD, MS

Orthodontist and Business Owner

B Orthodontics

Dr. Anita Bhavnani, a distinguished orthodontist and owner of B Orthodontics in Yorba Linda, California, epitomizes excellence in dentistry. Graduating from Case Western Reserve University for Dental School and completing her Orthodontic Residency at Saint Louis University, Dr. Bhavnani began her professional journey as an Orthodontic Associate Doctor in Southern California in 2012, ultimately acquiring her private practice in April 2019.

Board ertified b the American Board o Orthodontics, Dr. Bhavnani specializes in early intervention for children, comprehensive treatment for all ages, and innovative techniques like Clear Aligners and InBrace.

“I love making a difference in my patients’ lives, whether it’s giving them the perfect smile they have alwa s wanted, ivin them the confidence they didn’t know was missing or helping them with the pain or discomfort they have been suffering from,” Dr. Bhavnani said. “Building close relationships with my patients has become my favorite part of the job.”

Patient care is paramount in Dr. Bhavnani’s practice. Her team ensures a positive experience, addressing anxieties with thorough explanations and creating a welcoming environment. Actively involved in the community, the practice supports school activities and local outreach programs. Fun permeates the clinic with contests and enticing prizes, fostering a space patients look forward to.

In Dr. Anita Bhavnani’s hands, dentistry becomes a harmonious blend of skill and compassion, making each day “an opportunity to be the best part of her patient’s day.”

4915

info@orthoyl.com

Daniele Green

Newport Beach 949-640-9554

Manreet P. Grewal

Costa Mesa

714-545-0429

Sangita Hablani Tustin 714-368-3413

Naz Haque Tustin 714-505-0123

Christopher Hatae Fullerton 714-870-0356

Abel J. Hernandez

Fullerton 714-870-0356

Joanna Jefferson Irvine

949-444-5656

Joseph Kabaklian Newport Beach 949-991-2499

Joyce Kahng Costa Mesa 949-642-0608

Ankit Keshav Irvine 949-561-1833

Nasrin Khajeh Tustin 714-508-8080

Roy Kim

Foothill Ranch 949-830-2003

Francisco L. Kim Anaheim 714-635-1021

Tony I. Kuo Costa Mesa 949-273-4387

Brian A. Lassiter Orange 714-997-2735

Brandon Le Santa Ana 717-942-2447

Leif Loberg Laguna Hills 949-586-1930

Rikim Marfatia Tustin 714-266-3226

Mark K. Nguyen Costa Mesa 714-422-0596

Kaveh Niknia Newport Beach 949-650-6111

Amir H. Nikraz San Clemente 949-366-1177

Shannon Oh Jamison Yorba Linda 714-524-1123

Sienna Palmer Mission Viejo 949-558-0043

Joseph Passamano Irvine 949-572-7708

Ronald Pham Orange

714-705-6852

Archana Pimple

Tustin

714-832-8420

Sohrab Rahbar Irvine

949-551-9999

Scott L. Rice Irvine 949-551-5902

Taylor Rice Irvine

949-551-5902

Matthew Riggs

Aliso Viejo 949-831-4193

Jeffrey C. Robertson Irvine

714-838-7272

Amir Sadjadi Irvine 949-861-8441

Eugene J. Schmidt Fountain Valley 714-963-8934

Shahram Shahriyarpour

Irvine

949-654-4654

Joseph Shilkofski

Lake Forest

949-258-7433

Ronald K. Shimoide

Anaheim 714-635-8653

Andrew Spath

Corona Del Mar

949-979-6605

Susan Taylor

Newport Beach

949-640-5700

Ahmad Hassan Tokatli

La Habra

562-266-0033

James P. Toner

Tustin

714-544-8000

Quan Tran

Irvine

949-559-1814

S. Watanabe Irvine 949-751-6343

David Wilhelm

Newport Beach 949-752-1210

Wilfred M. Wong

Irvine 949-551-0661

Teruo Yamamoto Costa Mesa 714-540-3838

Michael Yang Tustin 714-547-9194

Marshall B. Young Newport Beach 949-631-3733

Sean H. Yu

Irvine 949-552-5500

OralandMaxillofacialSurgeon

Dr.StevenA.Miyamotospecializesinusinggrowthfactors andstemcellstoexpeditehealingaftersurgery.Hispractice includespinholesurgeryforgingivalrecession,wisdom teethremoval,diagnosingandtreatingfacialpain,facial injuriesandOsteonecrosis,aswellasdentalimplantand bonegraftingprocedures.Hecompletedhisresidencyin OralandMaxillofacialSurgeryattheUniversityofMedicine andDentistryofNewJerseyaftergraduatingfromUCLA DentalSchool.Dr.Miyamototeachescontinuingeducation classes,andservesasgeneralanesthesiainspectorforthe CaliforniaDentalBoardalongwithvolunteeringatseveral other professional committee boards.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Junil Ahn

Aliso Viejo 949-364-0220

Edward Balasanian Mission Viejo 949-202-5331

Jeffrey M. Caputo Mission Viejo 949-202-5331

Heena Chandra Los Alamitos 562-598-4683

Adam Clark Mission Viejo 949-202-4420

David R. Cummings Mission Viejo 949-202-5331

Naman Desai Tustin 657-231-2880

Sharo Fatehi Laguna Niguel 949-472-3737

Bao-Thy N. Grant Orange 714-771-7677

Hamid C. Hajarian Fountain Valley 714-540-1191

Nadia Hassan Laguna Niguel 949-363-2540

Keith Hoffmann Orange 714-639-1333

Vivian Jui Irvine 949-727-4633

Young Jun Placentia 657-216-1617

Eric Kim Irvine 949-453-9797

Ryan Kriwanek Newport Beach 949-760-1661

Jeffrey C. Lee Tustin 714-734-9363

James Mergelmeyer Orange 714-771-7677

Thomas Michaelis Newport Beach 949-760-1661

Steven A. Miyamoto Fullerton 714-525-1178

Jeffrey Nguyen Irvine 949-679-3470

David W. Nicholls Mission Viejo 949-202-5331

Scott M. Peifer Huntington Beach 714-842-2521

REUBEN JOHNSON, DDS AND ANKIT KESHAV, DDS

Endodontists | Root Canal Specialists

Access Endodontics

In the world of dentistry, Reuben Johnson and Ankit Keshav have established themselves as prominent endodontists. Both hailing from the distinguished Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, their journeys took unique paths before converging into a shared commitment to excellence in root canal procedures. Johnson’s initial foray into architecture took an unexpected turn during a winter break visit to his dentist. A conversation about dentistry sparked a passion, leading him to leave architecture behind and pursue a career centered around helping people and the hands-on challenges of endodontics. Keshav, inspired by his retired dentist father, and fueled by a love for precision work and intricate problem-solving, found his calling in dentistry early on.

Specializing exclusively in root canals, they prioritize patient care at Access Endodontics, streamlining the experience from insurance information collection to personalized consultations with visual aids like CT scans.

TOP DENTIST

The duo’s commitment to patient comfort is evident in their practice, offering noise-canceling headphones and iPads during treatments. The clinic’s panoramic views of Irvine and the surrounding mountains contribute to a serene environment during an experience some patients would have usually found stressful. Their dedication extends to same-day emergency care, emphasizing prompt pain relief.

Johnson and Keshav both credit their success to the unwavering support from their families, underscoring the vital role of their parents, wives, and children in their professional journey.

A HEALTHY SMILE

Lee D. Pham

Los Alamitos 562-598-4683

Solomon Poyourow

Newport Beach

949-760-1601

Sanford L. Ratner

Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Nader K. Salib

Mission Viejo 949-364-0250

David R. Telles

Huntington Beach 714-766-6560

Craig C. Thiede

Tustin 714-730-6767

Lisa Thi Tran

Anaheim 719-491-8600

Lisa N. Tran

Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Suzin Um

Foothill Ranch 949-203-3177

Monty C. Wilson

Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Daniel S. Yang

Yorba Linda 714-961-0907

Orthodontics

Dean Azzeh

Newport Beach 949-640-0203

Hal Barkate

Newport Beach 949-722-9010

Douglas Baum Tustin 714-544-8030

Anita Bhavnani

Yorba Linda 714-777-4080

Richard L. Botzbach II Aliso Viejo 949-362-9971

Bart Boulton

Cypress 714-826-6770

Chi H. Bui

Fountain Valley 714-962-8880

Chuck Carlson

Huntington Beach 714-462-5410

Russell EK Chang

Los Alamitos 562-430-0541

William Chen Tustin 949-654-2200

Richard Montgomery

“Monty” Curtis Brea 714-990-5414

John DiGiovanni

Newport Beach 949-640-0202

Sharif Elbayoumy Tustin 714-832-9151

John T. Eli Lake Forest 949-855-8480

Glenn Frial

Laguna Niguel 949-276-2105

Robert C. Gire

La Habra 562-991-6697

Andrew T. Harner

Huntington Beach 714-842-9933

Sage M. Humphries Orange 714-997-5961

Jared Jacobsen Anaheim Hills 714-637-6700

Hedi Kermani Newport Beach 949-640-5050

Enoch Kim Irvine 949-472-9155

C. Jack Lee Fullerton 714-871-8343

Samuel S. Lee Irvine 949-262-9567

Deborah Lee Villa Park 714-974-9000

Michael S. Lyons Placentia 714-993-3500

Matthew D. Macginnis Fullerton 714-253-5333

Lauren Manfred Fountain Valley 714-963-8931

Evelyn Y. Maruko Anaheim Hills 714-685-3890

James M. Meeks Ladera Ranch 949-347-2525

Robert E. Meister

Laguna Hills 949-770-3161

Jennifer Messenger

Huntington Beach 714-500-7147

Shawn Miller Orange 714-639-1061

Howard M. Nakamura Trabuco Canyon 949-858-4626

Philip Nisco Fountain Valley 714-979-1400

Shannon Hilgers Nissen

Mission Viejo 949-830-4101

Nehikhare “Nehi”

Ogbevoen

Newport Beach 949-722-9010

Vicki E. Okamoto

Costa Mesa 714-546-5170

Mark Rashidi

Mission Viejo 949-244-6295

Simon Shung

Irvine 949-264-3314

Noland D. Soo

Huntington Beach 714-842-7775

Heidi Starnes

Newport Beach 949-720-8145

Mario Tai

Irvine

949-892-6888

Sophia Updike Irvine 949-870-9713

Steven R. Wynn Newport Beach 949-642-2626

Christopher A. Zachary Laguna Niguel 949-831-5500

Pediatric Dentistry

Azi Ardakani

Laguna Hills 949-342-1484

Jaclyn W. Bae (Hui)

Yorba Linda 714-660-1890

Leslie Butler

Fullerton

714-680-9500

Suelene Chen

Huntington Beach 714-596-8989

Eduardo Correa

Orange 714-538-5582

Kent Do

Santa Ana 714-557-5437

Nasem Dunlop Foothill Ranch 949-668-0686

Bozhena Fisher

Newport Beach 949-640-0501

John Guijon

Huntington Beach 714-847-2566

Marcus Heffner

Costa Mesa 949-335-7303

Geoffrey Hersch Newport Beach 949-749-5389

Brian Hong Fullerton 714-992-5437

Trishia Johnson

Irvine 949-559-0674

Phyllis K. Kawada

La Habra 562-690-3750

Quy Nguyen Kim Fountain Valley 714-549-0911

Tra Le

Irvine

714-368-3334

Richard S. Lee Fullerton 714-992-5437

Jacob Lee

San Clemente 949-361-2838

Kathleen S. Lim Tustin 714-838-9120

Christian Lopez Newport Beach 949-777-5902

Rabin Marfatia Irvine 949-299-1111

Sarah Mathias

Laguna Hills 888-240-2903

Laura McCormack Irvine 949-252-9950

Maryam Meschi Fullerton 714-680-9500

Rakhee Porecha Mody Costa Mesa 714-592-0039

Richard P. Mungo Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Jeanne Nguyen Rancho Santa Margarita 949-858-5150

David H. Okawachi Anaheim 714-635-1170

Lydia Park Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Mary Regina Pham Placentia 714-528-8252

Shiva Roghani Tustin 714-832-1343

Brian J. Saunders

Yorba Linda 714-996-2200

Amit A. Shah

Huntington Beach 714-698-9950

Amit Shah

Tustin 714-486-0459

Michael Shannon

Mission Viejo 949-388-5437

Graciela Sullivan

Huntington Beach 714-377-2628

Eddie Surger

Newport Beach 949-640-0501

Tracy T. Tran

Newport Beach 213-375-8322

Andrew Vo

Villa Park 714-978-4274

Mandi Lynn Wilson

San Juan Capistrano 949-661-3380

Sam Wu

Mission Viejo 949-581-5800

Shaul Yehezkel Irvine 949-559-0674

Periodontics

Michael Almaraz

Newport Beach 949-640-9475

Akemi Arzouman

Orange 714-744-9100

Michael J. Arzouman

Orange 714-744-9100

Christen S. Bergman

Mission Viejo 949-482-6089

Steven J. Bounds Irvine 949-857-1053

Justin Braga Huntington Beach 714-587-9094

Nicholas Caplanis

Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

John U. Choi Fullerton 714-449-8650

Donald S. Clem III Fullerton 714-441-0436

Ramyar Elyassian Tustin 714-656-4885

Nooshin Ghayoumi Irvine 949-502-8844

Rebecca Hart Tustin 714-544-2220

Patrick L. Huston Tustin 714-730-7877

Kian Kar Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

Sheldon Lu Tustin 714-835-4441

Iman Madi

Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

James Mata Santa Ana 714-556-5156

Jeffrey J. Mccullough

Los Alamitos 714-484-8700

Marlene A. Miller Tustin 714-544-5337

Amir Mostaghni

San Juan Capistrano 949-496-2930

Alex Pezeshkian

Cypress 714-220-9486

Mark J. Redd

Laguna Woods 949-581-6641

Peter A. Russo

Huntington Beach 714-842-2515

Ajay B. Setya

Mission Viejo 949-482-6089

Stephen Shepherd

Tustin 714-544-2220

Nelson T. Yen

Fullerton

714-441-0436

Bertina Carmen Yuen Foothill Ranch 949-588-5906

Prosthodontics

Christine Fortmann San Juan Capistrano 949-429-8833

Antoanela Garbacea

Laguna Hills 949-951-7988

Mark A. George Orange 714-953-1000

David Guichet Orange 714-771-7555

Gregory Guichet Orange 714-771-7555

Daniel Kantarovich

Orange 714-953-1000 ext. 2

Eugene Kim

Irvine 949-284-2622

James W. Kim

Irvine 714-368-3319

Nelson Lowe

Santa Ana 714-550-7474

Robert Mokbel

Fountain Valley 714-968-0308

Gianmarco O’Brien Orange 714-953-1000

Kent T. Ochiai

Tustin 714-542-9606

Jacinthe M. Paquette

Newport Beach 949-760-6288

Valentina Redden La Habra 562-697-1229

Cherilyn G. Sheets

Newport Beach 949-760-6288

Robert L. Simon

Fullerton 714-525-5200

Pooya Soltanzadeh

Anaheim Hills 714-974-0949

Peter S. Wöhrle

Newport Beach 949-720-8072

NEWPORT ORAL SURGERY

Newport Oral Surgery is a practice built upon the goal of providing superior, personalized care for every patient. Our maxillofacial surgeons offer the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgical services (Maxillofacial surgery) including dental extractions, wisdom teeth extractions, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery (also called orthognathic surgery), diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, facial pain and facial injuries (including maxillary, mandibular and tooth fractures).

Our mission at Newport Beach Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is to serve our community with the highest level of care possible. We stay committed to this goal through extensive continuing education of the doctors and staff. We strive to deliver safe, e ficient and compassionate oral sur ical care in order to enhance and improve quality of life for our patients.

Our surgeons, Thomas R. Michaelis, DDS, MD, Vivian Jui, DMD, Ryan M. Kriwanek, DDS, MD and Ouzhan B. Kalantari, DDS, MD,

bring over 100 years of intensive surgical, medical and dental training and expertise to the practice. With two locations, one near Fashion Island, Newport Beach and the other in Irvine near Hoag Irvine, Newport Oral Surgery is proud to offer convenient service with the expertise and care that you deserve. So the next time your searching for a “oral surgeon near me,” we hope you contact us.

From left: Thomas R. Michaelis, DDS, MD; Vivian Jui, DMD; Ouzhan B. Kalantari, DDS, MD and Ryan M. Kriwanek, DDS, MD

TOP DENTIST

NAZ HAQUE, DDS

Market Place Dentistry

Dr. Naz Haque has been transforming smiles for over twentyfive ears. At Market Place entistr , our ocus is on deliverin beauti ul health smiles. We utili e technolo like Laser entistr , ntraoral ameras, i ero Scanner, i ital -ra s, 3- one Beam B ima in s stem to deliver advanced treatments like ental mplants, nvisali n lear Ali ner rthodontic therap , and ustom ne isit crowns, o erin our patients endless options or teeth replacement. ombined with our sleep dentistr pro ram, we can o er dental treatments while ou sleep. We have been honored to serve ran e ount over the past two decades. We are rate ul or the relationships we have built with our communit o smiles and look orward to servin ran e ount or man more.

2925 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92782 714-505-0123 | mympd.net

HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS

• St. Joseph Hospital orona e ional Medical enter EDUCATION AND TRAINING

LA

• NYU College of Dentistry

LA S - General Practice ospital esidenc

• Fellowship in Hospital Dentistry

TRACY TRAN, DDS, MS

Pediatric Airway Dentistry

r. rac ran, a distin uished pediatric airwa dentist, emplo s a root cause approach in her practice, ocusin on oral ties rom 0 to adolescence, and cranio acial rowth and development in children under 7, with the oal o improvin oral unction and breathin . With a commitment to children s oral unctional development, she combines e pertise with compassion and works with a team o m o unctional speech lan ua e patholo ists within her o fice. Be ond her clinic, r. ran shares her li e with her husband, r. onald Pham, and cherishes precious moments with their one- ear-old son. edicated to holistic well-bein , she finds solace in pilates and o a, embod in a balanced li est le. riven b a passion or health development or her oun patients, r. ran stands as a para on o e cellence in pediatric dentistr , seamlessl mer in pro essionalism with personal ulfillment, and pavin the wa or a more collaborative approach to oral health.

or more in ormation on services, ou can check out her website drtracytran.com or follow Dr. Tran on instagram @drtracytran

1419

Call

SERVICES

Laser entistr

Pediatric entistr

• Oral Surgery

Porcelain eneers

nvisali n rthodontic herap

• Implants

Non-Sur ical oot anal herap

Periodontal herap

M reatment

2024

TOP DENTIST

LILIAN CIFARELLI, DDS

Cifarelli & Larijani Esthetic Dentistry

Dr. Cifarelli has dedicated over two decades to enhancing the well-being of her community as a distinguished dentist in Orange County. A true Southern California native, she takes great pride in serving and residing in the community she fondly calls home. Driven by a passion for dentistry from an early age, she gained invaluable experience in her father’s dental lab and worked as a dental assistant during high school, laying the foundation for her remarkable journey.

Embarking on her college education at UC Irvine at the age of 16, Dr. Cifarelli earned two bachelor’s degrees before pursuing her doctorate at UC San Francisco. Her pursuit of excellence led her to a General Practice Residency at VA Hospital, West L.A.

Renowned for her expertise in cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Cifarelli’s sought-after skills extend beyond Orange County, reaching patients nationwide. What sets her apart is her meticulous attention to detail and clinical mastery. She integrates Invisalign, implants, laser, and Botox therapy options into her treatment plans, ensuring her patients receive the highest quality care.

“I am absolutely delighted with the outcome of my smile makeover by Dr. Cifarelli. Not only did she create a custom design tailored perfectly to my mouth and face, but she also captured my personalit flawlessl . find m sel unable to stop smiling since the transformation.”- Jessica B. Beyond her private practice, Dr. Cifarelli serves as a clinical instructor at the Center for Esthetic Dentistry and the AEGD residency program at UCLA School of Dentistry. She holds the esteemed position of an elected Delegate of the California Dental Association and actively contributes to the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce as a member of the Board of Directors. Outside her professional endeavors, Dr. Cifarelli treasures time with her sons and her French bulldog. Her commitment to community service shines through her dedication to underserved individuals and local charities. In ever aspect o her li e, r. i arelli e emplifies tireless commitment to excellence, compassion, and community engagement.

MEMBERSHIPS

American Dental Society

California Dental Association (Elected Delegate)

Orange County Dental Association

American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

American Academy of Clear Aligners

Board of Directors, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce

SIENNA PALMER, DDS

Palm Dentistry

Dr. Sienna Palmer has established a boutique dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, dedicated to addressing the unique needs of each patient to deliver a healthy AND beautiful smile. Palm Dentistry’s soothing beach and palm theme produces a comfortable environment and dental home for patients to enjoy personalized, relaxing, and e ficient care.

A Newport Beach native and alumna of Southern Methodist University (SMU), Dr. Palmer’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence and community service allowed her to graduate from the distinguished Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC. Her commitment to lifelong learning and delivering the best possible care to her patients is shown throu h nvisali n certifications, e pertise in CAD/CAM technology, and ongoing continuing education courses through the Academy of General Dentistry, particularly biomimetic dentistry. Focused on esthetic excellence, Dr Palmer adds natural beauty to all areas of dentistry includin composite fillin s, anterior bondin , veneers, implants, and the design of single visit crowns.

Beyond professional achievements, Dr. Palmer’s personal life intertwines with dentistry – she is married to her dental school sweetheart, Dr. Nehi Ogbevoen, a local orthodontist. Together they have two beautiful daughters, Capri and London, who add endless joy to their lives. As a dedicated mother and wife, Dr. Palmer is proud that she created a dental practice that is catered to treating the whole family and has the opportunity to serve the Orange County community.

TOP DENTIST

TOP DENTIST

RICE DENTISTRY

Excellence Meets Innovation in Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry

Rice Dentistry, acclaimed for its exceptional dental services, is proud to be recognized on the “Top Dentists” list. Rice Dentistry has the experience and expertise needed to make the right diagnosis of your dental condition and to offer multiple options to meet your exact goals and vision. We take a conservative approach in planning your long-term dental health. Competent in all phases of adult dental care. Cosmetic Dentistry, complex dental implant treatment – from one tooth to the entire mouth. We are Platinum Invisalign providers, placing us in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in California. If an orthodontic phase is needed in the treatment plan, we have you covered.

Rice Dentistry is at the forefront of dental technology. Digital dentistry has arrived in Orange County! 3D printing is now a daily process that we can’t live without. Digital scanning of the mouth is more comfortable than the old mouth full of material used to take impressions. 3D radiology allows us to make better diagnosis and to do virtual treatment ahead of the actual appointment, so there are no surprises.

Rice Dentistry’s commitment to their profession and their patients is reflected in ever thin the do. he entire team operates every day with the following guiding principles in mind: “At Rice Dentistry, we know people can have frustrations eelin confident about their smile. We ve created an incomparable experience that delivers optimized oral health

with unmatched value, in comfortable surroundings, because our patients deserve confident smiles or the rest o their lives.

Rice Dentistry has deep roots in the Orange County community. Over Thirty years ago. Dr. Scott Rice began practicing dentistry in rvine, drawin on the solid oundation he d built first at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and in his postdoctoral education in cosmetic, implant, and restorative dentistry. His son, Dr. Taylor Rice, grew up witnessing his father’s dedication to the community and passion for service. Later he discovered his own desire to serve others in the field o dentistr and decided to join his father in 2012 improving the lives of others at Rice Dentistry. Dr Nicolas Ravon, a renowned boardcertified periodontist, has been with the practice since 2008.

We understand that each patient is unique, which is why we offer personalized, in-person, and virtual consultations to craft tailored treatment plans.

Rice Dentistry transforms lives with a commitment to health, confidence, and the beaut o ever smile.

From left: Nicolas Ravon, DDS, MSD; Scott Rice, DDS; Taylor Rice, DDS, FAGD

Power of women | Building Community and Support

Kate Marr

Executive director of Community Legal Aid SoCal

BONA FIDES: Marr’s first internship while in law school reads like an episode of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”—working with victims of spousal abuse, sexual assault, and human tra ff icking at a domestic violence clinic in Baltimore, Maryland. It launched Marr’s career providing legal assistance to those who need it most. A fter leaving Baltimore and moving back to California, Marr founded the Greater Long Beach Medical-Legal Partnership to improve health outcomes for survivors of domestic violence and other trauma. A few years later, she took over at Community Legal Aid SoCal where she and her sta ff continue to work the tougher cases, o ften on a pro bono basis. U.S. Rep. Lou Correa honored Marr with the 2023 Woman of the Year award, prompting Marr to point out that she couldn’t have done any of it without the help of the “amazing and dedicated group of people at CLA SoCal.” Marr wants to make her team’s services easier for clients to use and know about. One way is to reach out to other legal aid services already helping certain parts of the community that are more insulated than others. Partnering with them increases trust, Marr says. “Then folks are more willing to reach out to us.”

IN HER WORDS: “I can’t remember how long ago it was that I decided I wanted to be a lawyer. I think I knew it in elementary school. I always knew that I wanted to fight for the underdog, and I saw that was a way I could do that. For a really long time, I thought I wanted to be a public defender until my first internship job in law school was at a domestic violence clinic. I took the job having no real experience in that line of work, and about two weeks in, I realized that was my life’s calling.”

Mary Anne Foo

Founder and executive director of OCAPICA

BONA FIDES: A fourth-generation Northern Californian, Foo was surprised by the lack of coordinated community services for Asian Americans when she moved to Orange County in 1990. She began talking with community leaders about ways to bring people together. Their e ff orts took on a fierce urgency when two young Asian American men were murdered in Orange County in 1996 and 2001 by killers who targeted them because of their race. In the decades since Foo and her coalition formed what is now the Orange County Asian Pacific Islander Community Alliance, the group has expanded its e ff orts to address such issues as mental health, homelessness prevention, workforce development, health care navigation, and youth education. Last year, OCAPICA’s work was recognized with a $3 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Sco tt ’s Yield Giving foundation, the largest gi ft in the group’s history.

IN HER WORDS: “The resiliency and strength of the community inspires me. Community members say we don’t want to be seen as poor people who just keep using resources or assistance. We actually contribute. We work numerous hours. We get involved our kids’ schools. We’re civically engaged. We want to have a voice. Community members have gone through so much—they’ve escaped war or they come here as immigrants and they want to have a be tt er life—and I feel so privileged to work with them and to learn from them.”

Power of women | Building Community and Support

Seema Shah

Director of training for Groundswell

BONA FIDES: Raised in Buena Park, Shah was introduced to Groundswell, then called Orange County Human Relations, as a sophomore in high school. She went to an event and was transformed with a light bulb moment—seeing herself as a leader a fter she steered conversations about race and hate that most people were afraid to touch. Words like diversity, equity, and inclusion have become fl ashpoints recently; Shah has been involved with social justice and connection for decades. She imagined herself as a teacher or recording engineer but joined Groundswell right a fter 9/11 and launched its training program in the summer of 2020, when the phones were ringing off he hook with requests for workshops about racial equity. Now she runs a team that trains hundreds of people in de-escalating con flict through lessons of equity, belonging, and anti-hate, and she leads from a place of curiosity and genuine interest in connecting people. The group has contracts with First 5 Orange County, Meals on Wheels Orange County, and the Anaheim Union High School District, and recently got a $1 million contract with Riverside Unified School District to train its employees. Groundswell’s goal: “Bringing diverse people together to build a more equitable future.” Shah’s welcoming approach encourages that and more.

IN HER WORDS: “All of us are wanting to be be tt er versions of ourselves. How can we become be tter versions of ourselves toward others? It ultimately will improve who you are as a person. Sometimes that sets me apart. I think there’s an importance to naming things—injustice, privilege, power dynamics—but you can do it in a way that invites people back into the conversation. Because it doesn’t do any good if that person doesn’t engage. The idea is how to all engage together and do it in a way that still holds people with love rather than making people ashamed. Similarly, giving folks who have been marginalized and oppressed spaces to live that and not feel they have to hide. How other people are treated and valued in society is all of our collective responsibility.”

Gloria Alvarado

Executive director of the Orange County Labor Federation

BONA FIDES: A Santa Ana resident since she immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico with her family as a young child, Alvarado began her career as a recreation leader for the city. She then ran the Santa Ana Senior Center for a decade. A fter 23 years working for the city, Alvarado was one of the roughly 300 workers laid off uring the financial crisis. She eventually landed at the Orange County Labor Federation, working as a community organizer and focusing on increasing engagement and immigration rights. In 2016, she moved to Washington, D.C., to work for The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, for which the OCLF is a charter organization. But she returned home a fter two years, partly because she felt she could make a bigger impact here, and partly because she missed her four children and 17 grandchildren. Shortly a fter her return, she was named executive director of the OCLF and has been in that position for five years, guiding the organization through the pandemic and working throughout to ensure hundreds of thousands of workers and their families were supported with food banks, diaper distribution, vaccine clinics, unemployment form assistance, and more. She has been named a Woman Making a Di ff erence by O.C. Supervisor Katrina Foley and Woman of the Year by U.S. Rep. Lou Correa.

IN HER WORDS: “I strongly feel that you cannot talk about labor without talking about the communities that workers, whether they’re union or not, live in. Every time we help pass legislation to uplift hem, we are upli ft ing their communities as well. The motivation for me is my children and grandchildren. I want to make a di ff erence for their future and leave a legacy of power and respect and dignity. And to have them know that the struggle is real, but we can make a di ff erence if we really, really set our goals straight.”

Ellen Ahn

Executive director at Korean Community Services

BONA FIDES: Ahn grew up in Echo Park’s Koreatown, the child of immigrants. She witnessed the same struggles with medical care, behavioral health, and social services that Korean Community Services addresses. Her father, an Episcopal priest, led a small Korean congregation at a Hollywood church. The family scraped by. Ahn, a self-described nerdy but “tough city kid,” recalls taping together broken eyeglasses because new ones were una˜ ordable. A move to Cypress meant two years of commuting to finish high school. An academic standout, she a° ended Yale and Georgetown University law school. She lasted a year in law before her heart tugged at her. Korean Community Services had begun in 1977 as a social services mission at her father’s church. Later relocated to Orange County, KCS, as it is known, had a three-person sta˜ that ran a single program for DUI o˜ enders when Ahn came on board part time in 1997. Married and raising a son, she sought a master’s in social work from USC to be° er guide the Buena Park-based nonprofit. KCS has grown to a sta˜ of about 200 who served some 10,000 low-income people last year at multiple clinics and through community outreach. Programs include medical, dental, and, coming this year, mobile optometry care; counseling and psychiatric services; substance abuse disorder treatment; legal and tax clinics. Pharmacy has been added. And KCS is partnering in a project to replace run-down buildings at St. Anselm Episcopal Church, in the heart of Garden Grove’s Asian community, with 81 units of a˜ ordable housing, services on site.

IN HER WORDS: “Those of us in this field, sometimes we wonder if we’re making a di˜ erence. The work we do is hard. The pandemic really highlighted the needs of those most vulnerable in our community. It made it so stark … they got the brunt of the pandemic in so many ways that those of us who work with those populations, I think we had a renewed calling. Really, it was validation for our work. I emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and mission. I felt like we really belonged here. Because if not us, then who?”

Power of women | Nonprofit Bosses

Nicole Suydam

President and CEO at Goodwill of Orange County

BONA FIDES: Two unsung kickass women shaped the leader Suydam is today in Orange County’s nonprofit sector. Her mother, a single mom in rural Santa Maria, took whatever job she could to support her only child. Her maternal grandmother, a first-generation Mexican American who traveled alone at age 16 to California from New Mexico to join a cousin, raised seven children. Then she helped care for her oldest grandchild when Suydam’s mother was working. “They really are my heroes,” Suydam says. Their work ethic and generous nature anchor her life as an executive, a mentor, a volunteer, and a married mom with two teenage daughters. Her mother’s insistence to “get an education” and her Christian faith led Suydam to Vanguard University in Costa Mesa as the first in her family to a˜ end college. She gleaned a valuable career principle from a communications class assignment: Nonprofits also must operate as businesses. Within a few years of her 2018 appointment as the first woman president and CEO at Goodwill of Orange County, total revenue and support grew 21 percent. More than 1,400 people are employed at its 24 thri° stores (soon to be 25), and workforce-related services are provided annually to more than 20,000 community members. Suydam also prioritized modernizing shopgoodwill.com, the Orange County operation’s e-commerce site launched in 1999. It now benefits 130 Goodwill enterprises nationwide, surpassing $2 billion in total sales—about half that revenue from just the past five years. Suydam is excited to mark Goodwill of Orange County’s 100th anniversary this year: “Our work is not done yet.”

IN HER WORDS: “Nonprofit leaders have so many stakeholders to answer to. You have to be really good and diplomatic at dealing with people and individuals … always having an open mind and being willing to listen to all the ideas. You’ve got your board that you hear from. You have the people you serve. Your employees. You have your community partners. You have your funders. Everyone has an opinion. But at the end of the day, you have to make the decision on what’s best for the mission. That’s my North Star. That keeps me grounded.”

Jessica Hubbard

CEO of Casa Youth Shelter

BONA FIDES: A fter serving as chief program o ff icer at Girls Inc. of Orange County for five years, Hubbard took over as Casa Youth Shelter’s CEO last year. The Los Alamitosbased organization, founded in 1978, provides temporary housing, counseling, and therapy to teens in crisis who might otherwise have nowhere to turn for help. A former high school teacher and a lawyer by training, Hubbard saw the position as the perfect match with her skills, experience, and passion; as a child, she lived in poverty, and some days she would come home from school to find that the electricity or the water had been shut o ff. Just as she did at Girls Inc., Hubbard expanded services at Casa Youth Shelter and plans grow the outpatient clinical mental health services and increase the scholarship program for past residents. She taps into her experiences and shares her story to inspire the teens she works with at the shelter. “Our kids need to know: You are not the worst thing that’s ever happened to you. You can be a straight-A student, you can be a lawyer, or a CEO, or a teacher. Or you can just be happy.”

IN HER WORDS: “There’s a huge, forgo tt en population of kids who don’t qualify for protective custody. The kids we’re serving, sometimes the caregiver drops them off ecause there’s heavy con flict in the home. Or local law enforcement brings a kid off he street who had t o flee their home and had nowhere else to go. Sometimes it’s LBGTQ youth who came out and the parent or caregiver said, ‘Not in my house.’ Or the mom or dad has a new girlfriend or boyfriend, and there’s no room for kids from an old relationship. People should know that poverty, abuse, and neglect, all of which I survived and experienced, doesn’t always look like the way people think it looks.”

Bonni Pomush

CEO of Working Wardrobes

BONA FIDES: Taking the lead at Working Wardrobes once the organization’s founder retired a fter 31 years might have been overwhelming, but Pomush says she was too naïve to be worried. Her father was a Marine and trained at Camp Pendleton. She’s married to a veteran, so the mission is dear to her heart: “an extension of who I am as a human,” she says. The nonprofit had double disasters in 2020, with the pandemic and a fire at the group’s headquarters, but still serviced more than 2,000 people. By 2022, Working Wardrobes had more than 4,000 clients; last year, more than 5,400 people received services. Pomush says the numbers show the group is beyond recovery and entering the growth zone. She’s been instrumental in building the infrastructure and increasing capacity so even more people can benefit. Calling herself an introvert with extrovert skills, she says her favorite thing about the work is the human connection and bringing out the best in each other. Pomush oversees a staff f 40 and more than 3,000 volunteers, so her ability to light up for others provides a powerful example for many, a ripple e ff ect that carries her enthusiasm across the community.

IN HER WORDS: “The mystery of life is what I’m always looking forward to. How is this moment going to connect to the next thing? We’re never helping just one person. That one person is a nucleus of a network of in fluence. It transforms them, their family, their neighborhood, their community. I can’t measure it; I can’t get my head around how big that is. I know we’re doing it li tt le by li tt le. It overwhelms me in a positive way.”

Power of women | UC Irvine

Dyonne Bergeron

Vice chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion at UC Irvine

BONA FIDES: Born and raised in the Ninth Ward of New Orleans, Bergeron radiates Southern warmth and sensibilities. She has always liked to fight for underdogs, a fight that became personal when she had surgery for a brain tumor as a sophomore at Louisiana State University. “From that moment on, I felt more purpose,” she says. As a first-generation university student, she collected mentors on her path through graduate school and in many leadership roles at universities around the country. They pushed her to move on, even though “I was scared out of my mind! But there’s a reason you’re there … it may be one conversation that saves somebody’s life—because people have saved mine.” She started in her role at UC Irvine in July, and she’s eager to help students, faculty, and sta˜ feel comfortable having authentic conversations. At her previous job at University of Colorado Boulder, she encouraged community through a talk show where people told stories and shared their vulnerabilities, breaking down walls and forming real connections. She clearly loves people and the campus culture, thinks being here is like a melting pot, and is ready to “find the secret sauce, where you can upli° a community in new ways.”

IN HER WORDS: “I’m looking forward to bringing people together. We all need each other to thrive in this world. We need to be OK to fumble, and fumble forward. Leadership is about being vulnerable, having compassion, and being thoughtful of the things that we do. I solely believe that once we upli° all facets of a person—in terms of their intellectual prowess, their emotional intelligence, and social intelligence—then that’s when we’re impacting a world for people to be great leaders. We can come together and realize that together and provide opportunities for folks to tap into that piece of themselves, to empower them.”

Tamara Inoue

Coach of women’s basketball at UC Irvine

BONA FIDES: Now in her eighth year at the helm of the women’s basketball program at UC Irvine, Inoue has continuously created success. Before her arrival, the Anteaters had only two winning seasons within a 15-year span. She brought a new mindset and culture a° er her tenure at New Mexico State and was able to turn the team into winners. Last year, the Anteaters went 25-7 overall with a 16-2 record in conference play, which gained them the title of Big West Regular-Season Champions. Inoue was also named the 2020-21 Big West co-coach of the year, making her the second coach in UC Irvine women’s basketball history to earn the honor. Since she arrived at UC Irvine, the Anteaters have had a 117-97 overall record and a 71-44 record in conference. The program has reached the Women’s National Invitation Tournament for the past two years. Inoue—who grew up in Kaua’i—a˛ ended Laguna Hills High School, graduated from California State University, Long Beach, and played professionally in Australia before an injury cut her career short. The setback led to her to coaching, which she instantly fell in love with.

IN HER WORDS: “I think it starts with sta˜ and being able to bring on great recruiters. You know, I was fortunate enough to have my associate head coach Cecilia Russell-Nava follow (me to UC Irvine). The other thing that really helps (us) be successful is the support from administration. They really trusted me in allowing me to basically do my job, and having that support really helped us move up as we did. The most important thing for me in my program is the culture and what we’re creating. If we have that foundation, I think everything else will fall in place.”

Bernadette Boden-Albala

Director and founding dean of UC Irvine Program in Public Health

BONA FIDES: A social epidemiologist, Boden-Albala has conducted groundbreaking research into stroke and cardiovascular disease prevention in diverse communities that span the globe, from West Africa to Grenada to Moldova, and now Orange County. She is lead researcher on SERVE OC, aimed at improving cardiovascular health in Vietnamese and Latino families in Santa Ana, Westminster, and Garden Grove. Under her leadership since 2019, UCI Program in Public Health has grown from one to four departments, tripled its faculty, expanded its enrollment to 1,300 undergraduate students, and increased its annual research funding from $3 million to $30 million. Last spring, Public Health received a $14 million grant from the Irvine Health Foundation to establish seven endowed chairs and to support research.

IN HER WORDS: “I’m a New Yorker, if you can’t tell by the accent. I spent most of my research life working in underserved communities and trying to understand how di˜ erent communities experience disease. A white man who has a heart a° ack in Orange County may experience that disease very, very di˜ erently than a Black man in Harlem. We know that their prognosis may be di˜ erent, their age of onset will likely be di˜ erent. Why is it that di˜ erent race-ethnic groups and gender groups experience disease di˜ erently? Not just describing those di˜ erences, but as of the last 10 years, trying to think about ways that we can intervene. So all of my work is around health equity and disparities and stroke.”

Power of women | Generation Next

Tobey Lynn Reyes

Singer, dancer, TV writing and production major at Chapman University

BONA FIDES: A˜ er graduation this spring, Reyes hopes to take her senior thesis, a web series pilot, to a broader audience. Called “White Boy of the Week,” the comedy with deeper meaning explores stereotypes about Asian American girls like Reyes, a Filipina, and co-writer Coco Hollings. The script was chosen as the first production for an upcoming Chapman screening of student work. A multitalented artist, Reyes was first inspired by a Filipina character on “High School Musical” and started dancing at the age of 5. She still dances, for her college team. She comes from a musical family—her dad was the music director at a church in the Bay Area. Reyes and her two older siblings grew up playing musical instruments found around the house. With a minor in music, Reyes leaned heavily into singing and songwriting her first years of college. She and her brother, a professional musician, produced an EP of her songs. She did live performances, including as the opening act last spring when the Chapman campus showcased O.C.’s Alix Page in concert. With the positive response to her web series, Reyes plans to pitch it to streaming services, along with featuring it on a YouTube channel started when she was 10 and her TikTok account, Who is Tobey Lynn. (That’s her full first name, a la Mary Jane.) Her role model is Donald Glover, the actor, singer, comedian, and rapper known as Childish Gambino. Like him, Reyes won’t limit her artistry.

IN HER WORDS: “I was like, ‘Why am I studying TV? I want to be a singer.’ Then this year, when my pilot got picked up, I got the chance to produce for the first time and be a show runner. I was like ‘OK, this is totally up my alley.’ I don’t know why I was pu° ing this to the side. I definitely want to do this. I’m so grateful for it. I was so, so stuck on only doing music. I had to shi˜ my perspective. I can do all of it. It can come at di˛ erent times. It doesn’t need to be this one straight path.”

Alix Page

Singer and songwriter

BONA FIDES: The indie pop/alternative music artist started this year the same way she spent a good chunk of 2023: touring and playing live music. Beyond opening for The Milk Carton Kids in a half-dozen cities thousands of miles from home, Page plans to dedicate 2024 to writing and recording. As she puts it, “just pumping music out whenever I can.” She can make such decisions because she is maintaining independent control of her career. The Orange County School of the Arts graduate is intent on emulating female artists whose music and management styles in˜ uence her. Of course, there’s Taylor Swi° , whom Page discovered at age 8 through a friend. There’s Ella Jane and Gracie Abrams, both of whom she has toured with in the U.S. and in Europe. She’s o° en compared to Phoebe Bridgers. An Orange County native who grew up in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, Page’s career is taking o˛ —her first EP released in 2022 and her second last spring, around the time Chapman University invited her to come perform. She’s paused her music studies at USC, a° er finishing five semesters. Her Spotify numbers more than doubled in a year, reaching around 47,000 monthly listeners at the end of 2023. Her first headlining tour came in May, small venues that a˝ racted crowds ranging from 150 to 500 people. To Page, it’s more than numbers that ma˝ er. It’s the high-level of engagement from the dedicated teenage girls who come to see her. And calling her own shots.

IN HER WORDS: “Going to music school, you kind of get it drilled into you that you want to be independent for as long as you can. I’m still really independent. I’m also currently manager-less, so it’s just been a lot of work on my end. But I love it. It’s kind of nice having all the control. I treat it like an o˛ ice job sometimes where I just spend a couple hours sending emails, making budgets, and booking hotels for tours. There’s always a time and place to sign a big deal, but for right now I’m happy to be in the driver’s seat.”

Rebekah Robeck

Founder of Let’s Be Kind

BONA FIDES: Robeck, 19, is known as “the kindness girl.” She was inspired to launch her kindness campaign a° er she returned from living in El Salvador and was picked on when she started school as an eighth grader in Costa Mesa. The contrast between her experiences in El Salvador—where she was warmly welcomed at an international school—and at her Orange County middle school led her to buy pizzas to share with new classmates and to mark the boxes with the message, “Let’s be kind to each other.” A movement was born. With help from her mother and a host of community supporters, her nonprofit organization has since hosted scores of kindness events for students and educators and produced and distributed more than 46,000 T-shirts proclaiming “Let’s Be Kind” to help spread the message. Some 30 schools are participating in annual Let’s Be Kind days, and the group’s newly initiated Fuel the Future campaign is targeted to raise funds to engage 10,000 additional students nationwide.

IN HER WORDS: “Our mission statement is creating a student-led culture of unity through kindness. Many of our elementary schools have go˝ en rid of their antibullying campaigns because they noticed that it was causing people to want to bully because you’re saying, ‘Don’t do that.’ With Let’s Be Kind, you’re giving them a positive action, and you’re saying ‘Let’s be kind to each other, and not only to each other, but to ourselves.’ Especially last year in our elementary schools, we homed in on that selfkindness. Teachers were ecstatic about the results—less people going to the principal’s o˛ ice and less con˜ ict in the classroom and on the playground.”

Power of women | Lifestyle Leaders

Kwini Reed

Co-owner of Poppy & Seed

BONA FIDES: Kwini Reed originally started a career as a singer and songwriter. But the world of hospitality called her back—her first hotel job during college in Fullerton was at Holiday Inn in Placentia. “I love hotels; they are magical places,” she says. Her ease with customers, her accounting background, and her marketing degree merge with her passion at the two restaurants she owns with her husband, chef Michael Reed. Poppy & Seed opened in Anaheim in 2021 and last year won honors from the Michelin Guide as well as being nominated for a James Beard award. All the a°ention has launched upcoming projects including a show on The Food Network, a cookbook, an appearance on “Tournament of Champions,” and a new adventure—The UNI coalition. She wants to bring restaurant workers together to share knowledge. The couple will use their downtown L.A. spot, Poppy + Rose, as a teaching kitchen in the evenings and provide a safe space for people to learn, grow, and create something for the community. There are plans to open a third location, in San Pedro, in 2025 and increase the catering business, too.

IN HER WORDS: “We were seen when we weren’t running on full cylinders, and someone saw us as a force to be reckoned with and something to be commended. I can only imagine when all the pieces are in place what’s going to happen. And we’re right there. There are so many things that have been falling into place, and 2024 is looking extremely bright.”

Tara Simon

Global brand president for Estée Lauder’s West Coast brands

BONA FIDES: Simon initially became interested in the beauty industry when she started her career working at Foley’s, now part of Macy’s, a˜er college. She was drawn to how professional the environment felt and from there went on to places including Sephora and Ulta. In August 2020, she moved from Texas to Newport Beach to work for Too Faced as its global brand president. She has since been promoted to Estée Lauder’s global brand president for its West Coast brands, Too Faced, Smashbox, and GLAMGLOW. In this role, she’s responsible for the long-term strategy for what the brands look like, how they’re marketed, and more. Some of her achievements include receiving the Cosmetic Executive Women Achiever Award, a beauty industry organization honor, as well as being recognized by Stages Repertory Theatre with the Stages Visionary Leadership Honor for her contributions. Simon has been on the Cosmetic Executive Women board for 10 years and also serves on the board for Step Up, a nonprofit mentoring girls, and the Harvard Women’s Leadership Board, which is a global board that focuses on civil rights and social action.

IN HER WORDS: “Mentoring is a common theme for me. I think it’s really important. We women, especially, have to take care of each other, whether you’re mentoring a summer intern or someone on your team who works for you. It’s one of my favorite things to do, both at work and away from work. … No ma°er how good you are at what you do individually, if you can’t collaborate or in˛uence people around you or build a good team then you really can’t be e˝ective. It doesn’t ma°er if you’re a strong individual contributor, that’s not enough.”

Christina Zabat-Fran

General counsel for Lanvin Group

BONA FIDES: Might the hyphen in Zabat-Fran’s name have been a harbinger to her future as a multihyphenate? The new president of the Orange County Bar Association and general counsel for Lanvin Group is also a second-degree black belt, a taekwondo world champion, founder of a wine group, and former co-editor-in-chief of the law review who has worked in politics and the arts. Orange County born and raised, she was one of 60 students in the inaugural class at UC Irvine School of Law and fondly recalls the day founding dean Erwin Chemerinsky called her to encourage her to “come build” whatever she wanted at the new school. Zabat-Fran’s zeal for fashion began long before she joined Lanvin, the oldest French fashion house still in activity; she started at St. John while still in law school. Now she works with people around the world to bring several heritage fashion brands under one roof and find ways to help each other. As president of the 120-year-old Orange County Bar Association, she’s the first Filipino, the first UCI Law alum, and the first millennial to hold the post. She’s eager to learn more languages (a˜ er studying two already) and likely will keep adding hyphens to her accomplishments.

IN HER WORDS: “I see how many young, rising lawyers are interested in the bar and in leadership. I’m excited to find each and every one of them their own paths. For me, that was such a major pathway to find mentors and sponsors. … I thought, ‘What if I could be so lucky that some of my other passions could overlap with law?’ Just go further so you’re ready when the moment comes. I had a big pile of books on fashion, and on hospitality, and wine and beverages. I wanted to make sure I was up to speed on those who I’d love to work with, so that when that call came, I could be in that room and not be intimidated.”

Power of women | Arts & Philanthropy

Elvia Susana Rubalcava

Executive director at Fullerton Museum Center, writer, teacher, filmmaker

BONA FIDES: Even with a degree in legal studies, Rubalcava has been laid o˜ three times in her life—waylaid by budget cuts, fallout from 9/11, and the pandemic shutdown. The last job loss, a° er eight years as operations coordinator for Fullerton Museum Center, prompted her to focus on herself as a poet, playwright, teaching artist, and filmmaker. She managed on unemployment and freelance work. In July 2021, she returned to the museum as its director. Her leadership re-energized the venue—earning her “Woman Warrior” recognition by the Woman’s Club of Fullerton. The second youngest of six children, Rubalcava grew up in Santa Ana. Her parents moved here from El Paso a° er her father got a job in the aerospace industry. She describes her family as “average Mexican middle-class.” But Rubalcava is anything but average. A bisexual woman married to a cisgender man, she has nurtured her deeply personal writing—poetry, short stories, non-fiction—since childhood but only began sharing it publicly about 15 years ago. Since 2021, she has self-produced five short films. Four played at film festivals, including 2023’s “Flu˜ y Homegirls” about body acceptance. The first two years a° er the museum reopened, Rubalcava was the lone full-time sta˜ er, serving as director, curator, and events manager. She guided a small team of part-time employees and student interns on a shoestring budget. But last year, she got to fill two full-time positions. Now a state award championed by State Sen. Josh Newman is bringing $4.5 million to the museum.

IN HER WORDS: “I am ˛ awed. But I think that’s what makes me powerful. I don’t wait for things to be perfect. I push it out there in the world. I want people to learn from it. I want to learn from it myself. I hope one day more people stop trying to be perfect or fit into what a perfect mold of an artist is, or a museum director or a filmmaker. I just want to create. The things that are in my head, the things that are in my heart. My family stories. My father’s legacy, my mother’s legacy. My own.”

Cathie Lawler

Philanthropist

BONA FIDES: Lawler came to Orange County from England in 1987 on a trip to visit her sister. She fell in love with the weather, the people, and the lifestyle and decided to make the trip a permanent move. Her work in philanthropy began almost immediately when she a tt ended a charitable luncheon that helped to raise more than $1 million. Now living in Laguna Beach, she has worked with more than seven charities—on the commi tt ee for four of them: JDRF, CASA, Special Camp, and Love Tribe Project. Lawler hosts meetings, coordinates fundraising, and even organizes events at her home with brands such as Saint Laurent, Bally, Jimmy Choo, and Philip Lim that help raise money for the nonprofits. She finds she is drawn to charities that “pull at her heartstrings.” While grassroots organizations are her passion, she also loves working with larger charities such as JDRF, which honored Lawler at its Southern California One Night Gala in 2023 for her contributions. Lawler recalls the evening as the highlight of her philanthropic career.

IN HER WORDS: “(Philanthropy is) something that’s in me. My mom was a beautiful person who would look a fter people who needed help; I raised my daughters like that. I, for one, feel incredibly blessed. Life is so much harder for so many others, and I think if you can bring a bit of relief or joy to somebody—that’s what are we put on Earth for. We’re here not just to indulge ourselves but to make the world a be tt er place. You have to give back. You can’t just reap the rewards, you have to look a ft er people. I think that’s our role.”

Chantrell Lewis

Winner of Emerging Artist award from Arts Orange County

BONA FIDES: The term “multi-talented” could have been coined for Lewis. She is a performing artist, arts educator, children’s book author, and the founder and executive director of a nonprofit organization. She started early, making her stage debut at age 8 singing Mozart—“in German,” she adds, with a self-deprecating laugh. She’s in her third year as a teaching artist in residency at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts with the Disney Musicals in Schools program, which uses musical versions of movies such as “Finding Nemo” to build sustainable theater programs in underfunded public schools. Her recent accolades include an Emerging Artist/Arts Leader award from Arts Orange County in recognition for her contributions to arts education and accessibility, and a 2023 Community Engagement Grant to support her documentary-style art project, “Why Wade?,” which explores themes of motherhood, womanhood, love, and life.

IN HER WORDS: “Especially the kids I’m working with currently, they’ve been directly impacted by the COVID isolation and separation. In the theater, you have to talk to each other, you have to be a part of a working community. These kids are having the opportunity to be thrown into a conversation, into responsible decision-making. They’re walking away with the ability to e ff ectively communicate, and to have a presence, and to be comfortable in their own shoes to take center stage in their own lives in whatever form that takes in the future.”

this report.

ANDREW AYALA , ALAN GIBBONS , ROBIN JONES , ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN , CHELSEA RAINERI , VALERIE TAKAHAMA , BARBARA NEAL VARMA , and THERESA WALKER contributed to

NOBODY’S SIDEKICK

Orange County School of the Arts alum Anneliese van der Pol discusses her roles on The Disney Channel and Broadway, as well as her nostalgia-filled podcast with Christy Carlson Romano. by Astgik Khatchatryan

Millennials remember her as quirky best friend Chelsea Daniels on The Disney Channel series “That’s So Raven” and its spin-o “Raven’s Home.” But van der Pol has been a musical theater performer for much of her life, appearing at the Huntington Beach Playhouse, the Buena Park Civic Theatre, the Pasadena Playhouse, and more. She made her Broadway debut in 2007 when she was cast as the 17th and final Belle in the long-running musical “Beauty and the Beast.”

“It came about because a litte girl who was a fan of mine and a fan of ‘That’s So Raven’ saw me sing in one of the episodes and told her dad who was a producer,” van der Pol says. “That got me the audition. And I got the part I’m sure a little bit because I was on The Disney Channel and a little bit because I could really sing. I couldn’t believe that my first role on Broadway would be a lead. I went to Barneys and bought myself some leather gloves. I did it for four months, and it was wonderful and hard. Raven came to see me in it. But it was sad too because the show was closing, and I was the final Belle. My last performance was with Donny Osmond guest starring as Gaston. It was just magical.”

The podcast title refers to the fact that we both have big, long names—and big-name energy.

Van der Pol recently started a podcast— “Big Name B*tches*”—with fellow Disney Channel star and former O.C. resident Christy Carlson Romano where the two chat to guests about life, Hollywood, and ’90s nostalgia. For the past few months, she has been traveling the world with the international tour of “Disney Princess — The Concert.” And this past December, she got engaged to her “Raven’s Home” co-star Johnno Wilson.

Born in Holland, van der Pol moved to Southern California at age 3. Her father, Willem van der Pol, was the director of the Physical Plant at Cal State Fullerton until retiring in 2016. Following her older sister, she attended Los Alamitos High School and later the Orange County School of the Arts. It was during her time at OCSA that she was cast in “That’s So Raven.”

“This was one of the first two auditions I did,” she says. “I was nearly 16. I remember I was at school, and I got a page from my mom that said, ‘911’ which meant to come outside. And she was standing there with Mickey ears on and said, ‘You got the part.’ OCSA was so understanding about it. I would go in once a week and get a schoolwork packet and during the week I’d go to set school. It went on for seven years and really shaped me as a person. I don’t think I realized at the time how good the writing was and how funny the show was. I was just happy to be playing every day and to get out of school.”

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ANNELIESE VAN DER POL

Opening new doors to women’s breast health.

MemorialCare’s Sarah & Taylor Nederlander Breast Center is NOW OPEN.

It’s arrived in Orange County. Our new breast center offering the highest level of coordinated, multi-specialty care, all here at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills. Occupying more than 20,000 square feet of our new Women’s Health Pavilion, it is the largest breast care center in Southern California. It offers the latest technology utilized by our team of dedicated breast care specialists who are solely focused on providing streamlined, elevated breast care. This is the premiere opening of our larger comprehensive Women’s Health Pavilion — scheduled for completion in Summer 2024 — dedicated entirely to state-of-the-art support for women’s health and wellness. One campus. One community. One commitment to women’s best health.

Schedule your mammogram

memorialcare.org/WomensHealth

POWER WOMEN

ORANGE COUNTY’S LEADING WOMEN PROFESSIONALS

Standing outside the Joe C. Wen & Family Center for Advanced Care, from left to right, are Sandra Masson, RN, MSN; Mary Ezzat, RN, MSN; Donna Hurt, Tara Kasmarek, MBA; Mara Rosalsky, RN, MSN and Georgina Hess.

This architectural rendering of UCI Health — Irvine shows the 144-bed acute care hospital and emergency department on the left, the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer and Ambulatory Care building at right, and the Joe C. Wen & Family Center for Advanced Care in the center.

UCI HEALTH

TARA KASMAREK, MBA | VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS

MARA ROSALSKY, RN, MSN | VICE PRESIDENT, PERIOPERATIVE SERVICES

SANDRA MASSON, RN, MSN | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CANCER CENTER

DONNA HURT | DIRECTOR, AMBULATORY CARE ADMINISTRATION

MARY EZZAT, RN, MSN | DIRECTOR, AMBULATORY CARE ADMINISTRATION

GEORGINA HESS | HEAD OF OPERATIONS ACTIVATION

UCI Health is writing the next chapter of healthcare for Orange County, expanding access to the academic health system’s unparalleled expertise with UCI Health — Irvine, a $1.3 billion medical campus opening this spring, and a new rehabilitation hospital in 2025.

We are proud to celebrate six formidable women whose unwavering leadership in the planning and execution of these essential pro ects will brin the finest, most compassionate care to more people throughout Orange County.

Tara Kasmarek, as vice president of operations, has played a pivotal role in sustaining high-quality care and patient safety excellence, helping UCI Health earn recognition among the top 10 U.S. academic medical centers for quality leadership in annual rankings by Vizient Inc. She is also the driving force behind a joint venture to build the UCI Health Rehabilitation Hospital, which will offer

the highest level of care for patients recovering from stroke, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries and many other severe conditions.

Donna Hurt and Mary Ezzat, directors of ambulatory care administration, have been instrumental in expanding the UCI Health outpatient care network, recognized as one of the nation’s top 10 systems by Vizient. Their leadership has been essential to bringing a full range of adult and children’s services and urgent care to one convenient location, the Joe C. Wen & Family Center for Advanced Care, which opens April 30 on the new medical campus in Irvine.

Sandra Masson, executive director at the cancer center, and Mara Rosalsky, vice president of perioperative services, have spearheaded the second phase of the medical campus buildout, the new Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Ambulatory Care building. Together,

they have worked tirelessly to ensure that patients receive the most advanced treatments and seamless, personalized care when it opens in July.

The third phase is a 144- bed acute care hospital and emergency department set to open in 2025.

And as head of operations activation, Georgina Hess, a former U.S. Air Force intelli ence o ficer, has provided critical leadership, coordinating hundreds of UCI Health planning and operational team members who are making UCI — Health Irvine among the most advanced medical centers on the West Coast.

“This will have a such positive impact on so many lives,” said Hurt. “I’m honored to be a small part of such a great work. At UCI Health, we truly are a forever institution in addition to being the best place to give and get care.”

UCI Health — Irvine 19200 Jamboree Road Irvine, CA 92612

ucihealth.org/irvinehospital

MICHELE HARRINGTON

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | FIRSTTEAM REAL ESTATE

When you talk about power women in Orange County, you cannot leave out Michele Harrington, the new hie ecutive ficer o irst eam eal state. irst eam is the lar est independent real estate compan in Southern California with over two thousand a ents and o fices rom Lon Beach to San ie o. Michele was promoted to CEO in October 2023 after servin as the hie perations ficer the prior two ears. Since takin the reins o irst eam, Michele has alread overseen the rebrandin o the iconic company, modernizing the logo and brin in a laser ocus on the compan s rowth and core competencies. he rebrand was a real challen e or Michele as she needed to make sure it was si nificant enou h to be di erent while

maintainin the status o the compan in the e es o her a ents. Needless to sa , it was a hu e hit with a ents and sta alike, giving the company great momentum headin into 2024.

As , Michele has leaned on her e perience as a nited States Marine orps eteran to reall brin discipline to the compan in several ke aspects. She is implementin an a ressive rowth strate ocusin on influencin a ents to be success ul in their business b bein disciplined, doin the small thin s e tremel well and bein the best pro essionals in the industr . Michele ties that rowth messa e in with a ocus on relevant, consistent trainin , whether throu h mastermind roups or one on one coachin . ne thin is or sure,

Michele is not restin on her laurels, she has a vision or irst eam and a disciplined plan or implementin that vision.

Michele and husband ave raised five wonder ul children, two do s and have their own wine label called hin Blue Wine ellars in Paso obles. She is an example of having it all, family, fun and influencin with power.

4 orporate Pla a rive, Suite 100 Newport Beach icheleharrington.firsttea .co

Lic 01217754

MICHELE

ANNE LUHAN, MD, FACS

BOARD CERTIFIED SURGEON BOARD CERTIFIED IN VENOUS AND LYMPHATIC MEDICINE

ELITE VEIN INSTITUTE

Dr. Anne Luhan, MD, FACS, stands as a distinguished board-certified sur eon speciali in in the ull spectrum o venous disease at the lite ein nstitute rom the cosmeticall displeasin spider vein to the venous skin ulceration. r. Luhan s ourne rom the niversit o lm, German , to becomin a trauma sur eon on the Ari ona-Me ico border has shaped her uni ue perspective on patient care.

Motivated b the challen es aced at the border, especiall in wound care or patients with venous ulcers, r. Luhan concentrated on venous and l mphatic medicine upon her return to ran e ount . Be ond her sur ical practice, she activel en a es in on oin learnin , participatin in national venous ph sician networks and sta in updated on the newest technolo ies and studies.

n advancin the field within the communit , r. Luhan emphasi es the importance o educatin the public about venous disease.

enous disease is a chronic disease that needs to be addressed, r. Luhan said. want to ive people hope that there is treatment out there that s simple, e ective, and minimall invasive with reat results or the health o the le s. want to enhance their confidence in bein able to wear shorts a ain and show their le s. onfidence is ualit o li e.

eflectin on her career, r. Luhan takes immense pride in bein a sin le workin mom who overcame the challen es o movin to the nited States alone with ust two suitcases.

ver thin is possible, it ust takes work ever da . Never stop learnin , never stop improvin and ust be so thank ul, r. Luhan said. am also ver proud o m wonder ul sta who have been with me since startin m practice. t is all teamwork. want to encoura e other women to reach or the stars as well.

Los Altos Medical Pla a 26691 Pla a, suite 140, Mission ie o 949.388.4800

eliteveininstitute.com

AJ OLSON WHITFIELD

A lson Whitfield, a distin uished fi ure in ran e ount s lu ur real estate scene, not onl boasts a remarkable track record in sales, with career transactions e ceedin 200 million, but also brin s a uni ue value proposition to her clients throu h her construction e perience. Since launchin her career in 2009, A has or ed a reputation or deliverin unparalleled client service, showcasin impressive market knowled e, cultivatin a best-in-class network, and achievin market-leadin results or her clients.

Apart rom her success in sales, A has activel participated in numerous new construction pro ects, completin our alon side her husband. his hands-on e perience e uips her with invaluable insi hts into plannin , construction, and desi n, providin clients with a uni ue advanta e. A s deep understandin o the buildin process positions her as a strate ic advisor, o erin uidance to clients on enhancin propert values.

er commitment to addin value e tends be ond sales transactions. Whether providin recommendations on desi n elements to elevate aesthetic appeal or o erin insi hts into coste ective renovations, A s construction e pertise tailors solutions ali ned with clients oals.

esidin in astside osta Mesa, A is not ust a real estate e pert but an active communit member, participatin in the Newport arbor Yacht lub and the Bi an on ountr lub. n essence, A lson Whitfield s usion o real estate acumen with construction e perience makes her a multi aceted pro essional, settin the old standard or service and success in ran e ount s competitive real estate market. 1100

ajolson

JANE AN

WEALTH ADVISOR / PRESIDENT

MONOLITHE WEALTH PLANNING GROUP

Jane An, Wealth Advisor and President of Monolithe Wealth Plannin Group, discovered her passion or finance and helping people amid a personal tragedy at a young age.

“Losing my father at an early age in a car accident left my mother with no plan for the future and two teenage daughters. My parents had never really planned properly, really only focused on just living day to day. I was thrust into helping my mother run her business, which helped me understand at an earl a e cash flow o a business, financial statements, and a wealth o in ormation on finances. wanted to help families plan properly so that families would not have to experience what my family went through.”

Monolithe Wealth Planning Group adopts a holistic approach to Wealth Management. Starting with clients’ goals and needs, the tailor financial plans to dreams, ensurin investments align with personal objectives. Monolithe customizes each client’s Financial Plan to what is important to their clients and applies an investment strategy that aligns with their Financial Plan.

An’s client-centric approach earned her recognition as a Top Advisor for exceptional customer service. A milestone of si nificant achievement lies in positivel impactin clients lives, notably during crucial moments. An example involves helping a client navigate the unexpected loss of a spouse, trans ormin their financial outlook or a secure retirement.

ue to our inancial Plannin , she had financial stabilit and was secure in her financial uture An said. t was wonder ul to see her goals of retirement did not have to change, and she was able to continue to reach all her financial oals. Bein able to make a di erence in that wa made me reflect back on the moment had decided on wh wanted to become a Financial Planner,” she added. “Watching her enjoy her retirement with peace of mind is very rewarding for me personally.”

eflectin on her career, An takes pride in runnin her successful business, while balancing the roles of Mom, Wife, and trusted financial partner to clients. As a woman owned business, we value and look at di erent aspects o li e in a unique way that may be a bit different than their counterpart. As a mom of a teenage daughter getting ready for high school and a son in elementary school, we juggle many hats; bein able to show m children that women can flourish in their careers as well as be a dedicated mom is what I am most proud of,” An concluded.

monolithegroup.com

jane.an@monolithegroup.com

VIKKI SHEPP, Ed.D.

CEO | GIRL SCOUTS OF ORANGE COUNTY

Girl Scouts of Orange County’s mission is to build irls o coura e, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. Headquartered in Irvine, the nonprofit is committed to empowerin girls to live their best lives, and at the helm of the organization is CEO Dr. Vikki Shepp.

Shepp has led GSOC since 2018. She is a changemaker and is sharply focused on ensuring transformative development experiences for the nearly 15,000 Girl Scouts across Orange County. Fostering ambition, breaking barriers, and cultivating future leaders is no easy task, but with a staff of 100+ and the power

of 10,000 volunteers supporting GSOC, Shepp guides the organization, which offers wide-ranging programs, including STEM education, entrepreneurship, community service, outdoor adventures, a comprehensive arts program, life skills, and so much more.

Under Shepp’s leadership, GSOC recently opened a new center in Santa Ana staffed with bilingual employees ready to serve the local community.

Shepp also recently earned her Ed.D. in Organizational Change and Leadership, and her research on how to serve girls with varying abilities and needs led to the hiring of a GSOC Inclusion Specialist.

Shepp is excited about GSOC’s future but acknowledges that philanthropy is vital to ensuring the success of the organization. “Girl Scouts need a champion. They need a community willing to invest in their dreams. They need a network of alums and supporters cheering them on and showing them what is possible.” Join Girl Scouts of Orange County in building a brighter future for girls.

9500 Toledo Way, Suite 100 Irvine

949.461-8800

girlscoutsoc.org

Dr. Vikki Shepp, CEO | Girl Scouts of Orange County

n the male-dominated world o finance, enni er im has emer ed as a trailbla er, breakin barriers and establishing herself as a powerful woman in the financial sector. As a wealth manager at Signature Estate and Investment Advisors, LL , im s ourne commenced with a childhood ascination or the stock market.

n si th rade, she ealousl tracked stock s mbols rom the Wall Street ournal, la in the oundation or a li elon passion or investin .

am alwa s ver thank ul when look at m past, on how all o the cards ell into place have alwa s been a ver relationship ocused person and value riendships with m clients. have alwa s wanted clients to eel that the can approach me and tell me an o their issues so can help them urther. have also built a team to assist clients with aster service. his has helped me build a ver lar e book o business where can be reco ni ed as a power ul woman in the financial sector, im said.

Be ond her pro essional achievements, im contributes to the broader financial communit in Los An eles. She serves on various boards and committees, includin the entur it hamber o ommerce, arvard Westlake orean Parent Association, NGA ancock Park, and Aviva amil and hildren s Services.

eel ver ortunate to have entered this industr at the per ect time and with the ri ht people and the ri ht firm, she concluded.

MONA Z. HANNA AND THE WOMEN OF M&R IRVINE

MICHELMAN & ROBINSON, LLP

Michelman & Robinson, LLP (M&R) is a nationwide law firm with a robust presence in ran e ount . he rvine o fice is mana ed b Mona Hanna, who is also M&R’s National omple lass Action rial hair. n that capacit , she spearheads a team o remarkable attorne s, includin a roup o e traordinar women doin e traordinar work on behal o e traordinar clients across industries hospitalit , insurance, music entertainment, ener , technolo , advertisin di ital media, bankin financial services, and real estate, amon them.

anna makes it a point to sta cases with law ers possessin comprehensive industr fluenc , enablin M to adeptl address not ust le al issues, but broader business concerns as well. oward that end, anna e plains, we prioriti e client satis action b providin

service that s be ond e cellent, which osters positive outcomes and helps to build lon -standin relationships.

As or the firm s commitment to diversit , it has been reco ni ed as a op 100 irms or Minorit Attorne s b Law360. M also touts its initiatives to empower emale attorne s.

Mana ement does all it can to enable the continued success o our women law ers, anna sa s. hibit A is the Women Attorne s o M , an in-house committee that sponsors enderocused speakers and events and presents a plat orm or M s emale pro essionals to concentrate on career and personal rowth.

When asked about M s rvine operation, anna s deli ht shines throu h, am most ratified b the cohesiveness, lo alt and en a ement

across our team o pro essionals here, all o which in orm the wa we practice law and allow us to be on the winnin side o cases much more o ten than not. n le al circles, M is known as a liti ation powerhouse. hat alone is a source o reat pride.

M celebrates its 25th anniversar this ear. As that milestone approaches, anna envisions continued rowth across the firm s seven o fices. She also looks orward to maintainin M s winnin wa s, nurturin the firm s oun talent, and elevatin the M brand nationwide.

17901 on arman Avenue, 10th loor rvine

714.557.7990

mhanna mrllp.com

mrllp.com

rom le t Allison A uirre, ell a emann, Mona anna, Amanda Anderson, Samantha r sdale, enni er Mauri not pictured, ane utepova and A nes Shin

WENDY HAASE-ROBERTS

PRESIDENT & CEO | TRAVEL SANTA ANA

Wendy Haase-Roberts, the President & CEO of Travel Santa Ana, is a visionary leader who has brought vibrancy and identity to the heart of Orange ount . oinin as the first emplo ee in Au ust 2021, aase- oberts pla ed a pivotal role in the establishment o Travel Santa Ana, the only destination marketin or ani ation dedicated to promotin the cit . er love or tourism that cultivated since her career s inception in 1999 in Milwaukee ound a new home when she took on the leadership role with Travel Santa Ana in 2021.

aase- oberts innovative approach brought Santa Ana to life through strategic initiatives that began with

developin a brand that would accuratel reflect the cit s vibrant and eclectic essence. epartin rom the conventional logo, local artists crafted interchan eable si natures capturin the city’s character. Under Haaseoberts leadership the last two ears, ravel Santa Ana launched the o ficial website, social media channels, a visitors uide, the Proud Santanero campai n, a public art uide, and diverse sales and marketin pro rams. hese e orts positioned Santa Ana as a desirable destination or leisure visitors, meetin s, and roups, showcasin its rich histor , culture, arts, and culinary scene.

eflectin on her 25- ear career, aase- oberts draws empowerment

rom resilience, sa in , have had a ew setbacks where others have done their best to discoura e me rom movin orward. What makes me eel power ul is that persevered because o m tenacit and knowin that the tourism industr is where belon . espite those challen es, wouldn t chan e m ourne because it tau ht me so much and am better or it both pro essionall and personall .

1631 West Sunflower Avenue, -35 Santa Ana wend travelsantaana.com 714.242.4434 travelsantaana.com

PAULA ARAGONE

CEO & FOUNDER

ARAGONE & ASSOCIATES FIRSTTEAM® REAL ESTATE

Meet Paula Aragone, the dynamic CEO and founder of Aragone & Associates at FirstTeam® Real Estate. Paula’s journey began in Argentina during her law school days, where her love for contracts and negotiations seamlessly merged with her innate talent for interior design and remodeling, propelling her to become a powerhouse in the real estate industry.

Now with over two decades of real estate service in Southern California, Paula consistently ranks in the top 1 percent of real estate agents nationwide, boasting a track record of over 800 closed transactions. “I truly believe that if you love what you do, then you will succeed.” — Paula Aragone.

Trust is the cornerstone of Paula’s approach, and her esteemed reputation is built on high-level negotiating skills, marketing innovation, integrity, and unwavering passion. Coupled with the fact that she tailors unique plans for each client through extensive private consultations, she and her team consistently exceed expectations even in the most complex deals. With ears o bein trusted on hi h-profile le al matters, Paula has continued to utilize her law background to navigate intricacies in divorces, probates, trusts, and conservatorship property cases. Beyond her professional expertise, Paula is dedicated to her family and actively involved in her community, consistently making a positive impact. Her genuine joy in helping clients achieve financial dreams, coupled with an unyielding enthusiasm for her profession, creates an unparalleled experience. Paula believes every woman can be a Woman of Power.

“Chase your dreams and follow your passion. If you’re passion-driven, have the resilience to accomplish the job no matter the challenges and have a positive impact, you are a power woman.” —

Paula Aragone

4 Corporate Plaza, Suite 100 Newport Beach 949.415.4784 aragoneassociates.com

Lic# 01364746

Lido House

POWER

PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH HOSPITAL IS OPENING A DEDICATED WOMEN’S AND FAMILY CENTER IN APRIL 2024!

MEET 6 OF THEIR HIGHEST QUALITY PHYSICIANS

TANUJA BHANDARI, MD, MBA

BOARD CERTIFIED RADIATION ONCOLOGIST | PROVIDENCE ST JOSEPH HOSPITAL

ASSISTANT CLINICAL PROFESSOR | CITY OF HOPE

r. anu a Bhandari, a board-certified radiation oncolo ist at Providence St oseph ospital and it o ope, embarked on a medical career driven b a passion or ph sics and healin . Speciali in in radiation oncolo , r. Bhandari skill ull emplo s ioni in radiation to combat cancerous cells, showcasin the per ect marria e o her scientific and medical interests.

r. Bhandari s pivotal moments in medicine revolve around witnessin cancer survivors reclaimin normalc in their lives, returnin to work a ter treatment, and celebratin milestones with their amil and loved ones.

As a emale M in ran e ount , r. Bhandari speciali es in breast and necolo ic cancer and brach therap . She finds ulfillment in her collaborative role within a dedicated team assistin patients throu h their cancer ourne . ne standout e perience involves a sta e cervical cancer patient who, posttreatment, o ull traveled to urope, e empli in the positive impact she imparted on her patients lives. er dedication, compassionate approach, and trans ormative care make her a respected fi ure in the field, o erin hope and healin to those battlin cancer.

HANG T. DANG, DO, FACOS, FACS

BREAST SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DIRECTOR OF BREAST ONCOLOGY PROGRAM

PROVIDENCE ST JOSEPH HOSPITAL

r. an an is a board-certified eneral sur eon and ellowship trained breast sur ical oncolo ist. urrent medical director o breast oncolo pro ram at Providence St oseph ospital, she pursued a career in Medicine influenced b her ph sician ather and ound her callin in sur ical breast oncolo durin her residenc .

A pivotal encounter with a patient battlin locall advanced breast cancer ueled her commitment to educate and advocate or women s health.

ealin with cancer is di ficult and havin the privile e to ease and com ort m patients is e tremel rewardin . M philosoph is to treat the person as a whole, not ust their disease, said r an . She continues to provide hi h ualit personali ed care with inte ration o world class services to all her patients trans ormin hope into realit or the ran e ount communit .

1000 West La Veta Avenue, Orange 714.734.6250

cityofhope.org/tanuja-bhandari providence.org

STAVROULA (“STEVIE”) OTIS, MD

CEO | CANCER AND BLOOD CARE SPECIALISTS

ST. JOSEPH HOSPITAL FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dr. Stevie Otis, a hematologist/oncologist in Orange County, began her career working summers in her father’s oncology o fice. She recalls an emotional moment when her red-e ed ather had to break the news that a patient s 10 ear battle with cancer was pro ressin . he patient was com ortin m ather, knowin he had done ever thin he could. t is this deep and comple human partnership that drives her medical practice.

n her dail work, r. tis finds ulfillment in di in into the details. She remembers a patient who had seen multiple doctors and was ettin nowhere. She suspected l mphoma, a hunch that proved correct. e ust wanted to see his dau hter walk down the aisle. ive ears on, she still ets pictures o the patient s two beauti ul randdau hters. his career is not an eas one, but et to see the best o humanit ever da , r. tis said. M patients are m teachers. he teach me stren th, coura e, love, and ratitude. t is m absolute honor and privile e to care or them.

363 South Main Street, Suite 485, Orange 714.835.4800 | cancerandblood.care

JILL TSENG, MD

ASSISTANT CLINICAL PROFESSOR OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY

FELLOWSHIP DIRECTOR, GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY

UC IRVINE HEALTH

ill sen , Assistant linical Pro essor and ellowship irector at rvine ealth s ivision o G necolo ic ncolo , ound her passion or medicine throu h earl roles as an M and emer enc department scribe. n her decade-lon ourne in G necolo ic ncolo , she has been committed to personali ed patient care. A pivotal moment in her career involved a roundbreakin sur er on a 19- ear-old with a ressive va inal cancer. his case tau ht me about thinkin outside the bo and takin innovative approaches to meet the oncolo ic needs o patients, sen said. he patient also tau ht me about braver and the human spirit. espite her outh, she showed immense coura e and stren th, somethin we can all learn rom.

As a emale M in ran e ount , sen values meanin ul patient connections. espite bein in G n ncolo or 10 ears, still eel privile ed to care or m patients, she concluded. ver case is di erent, re uirin care ul considerations and problem-solvin . love connectin with m patients, helpin them find the stren th the o ten don t know the have inside.

VENITA WILLIAMS, MD

MEDICAL DIRECTOR, RADIATION ONCOLOGY | PROVIDENCE ST. JOSEPH ORANGE

RADIATION ONCOLOGIST | CHOC

ASSISTANT CLINICAL PROFESSOR | CITY OF HOPE CENTER FOR CANCER PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

r. enita Williams, Medical irector o adiation ncolo at Providence St. oseph ran e and adiation ncolo ist at , is a compassionate orce in cancer care. Motivated b her ather s resilience a ainst colon and prostate cancer and ueled b a love or ph sics and human connection, she leads a d namic team shapin tailored treatment plans.

he best part o m ob is havin the tools and the data to improve m patient s ph sical health while also addressin their mental and spiritual health too, Williams said. As Assistant linical Pro essor at it o ope, she inte rates complementar therapies like acupuncture, nutrition, e ercise, meditation, and pra er to enhance patients overall ualit o li e during treatment.

M li e e periences as the dau hter o a cancer survivor and a Lutheran pastor, the wi e o a hi h school counselor, and the mother o 3 children, ive me insi hts into the uni ue needs o people in di erent developmental and ps chosocial circumstances, Williams concluded. love bein able to connect with and encoura e m patients in the wa that is most meanin ul to them.

LINDA L. ZEINEH, MD, FACS

BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON

ACTIVE MEMBER: AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY, AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS

A Board- ertified Plastic, econstructive Sur eon, r. eineh maintains a patient centered approach to her plastic sur er practice. M primar oal is to ocus on patient well-bein , a positive patient e perience, and a hi h satis action with the outcome o an procedure. his is the most rewardin aspect o m practice

An active member o the American Societ or Aesthetic Plastic Sur er and the American Societ o Plastic Sur eons, r. eineh finds it ver ulfillin , personall and pro essionall , to impact a patient s li e in a positive wa . She considers it an honor and a privile e to per orm cosmetic and reconstructive sur er procedures or women and men. ach patient is a uni ue individual with their own stor . ocus on individuali in treatment b addressin both the ph sical and emotional needs o each patient. listen care ull to m patients and believe that maintainin open communication is essential or a patient s optimal outcome and success ul plastic sur er .

1000 West La Veta Avenue, Orange 714.734.6250

cityofhope.org/venita-williams

SHAUNA R. ANDERSON, ESQ.

PARTNER | LAW STEIN ANDERSON, LLP

Shauna Anderson’s impact on the legal landscape led to the recent rebranding of Law & Stein to Law Stein Anderson. Anderson has over a decade o e pertise and is a certified specialist in Trust, Estate, and Probate Law, a designation less than 1 percent of attorneys hold.

n her influential role, she champions the voiceless and vulnerable in ran e ount , ensurin ustice prevails in cases o wrongdoing against a defenseless individual by providing crucial support for those navigating the legal process after incapacity or death strikes.

As a distinguished woman in law, she attributes her success to the collective strength, grace, and empowerment of the dynamic team of female powerhouse attorneys she collaborates with, fostering a culture of mutual support and shared achievements.

As a named partner, Anderson ensures a lasting legacy of compassion, knowledge, and client-focused service, marking her as a standout fi ure in her illustrious career.

2601 Main Street, Suite 1200, Irvine 949-501-4800 | lsalawyers.com

HAILEY POTOK

A dedicated real estate agent, leading “The Potok Group”, with a deep-rooted connection to the vibrant community of Orange County. Born and raised in this picturesque region of Southern California, Hailey possesses an innate understanding of the area’s unique charm and allure, making her an invaluable asset to anyone seeking to buy or sell property in this thriving market.

With an unwavering passion for the real estate industry, Hailey is a true advocate for her clients. She is particularly drawn to the ever-evolving landscape of sales technology, utilizing cutting-edge tools and strategies to ensure her clients’ success. Hailey has been one of the top 1% of agents in Orange County for several years in a row. She can be seen in several other publications such as the cover of “Real Producers magazine”, Riviera “Modern Luxury” Dynamic Women, Orange Coast Magazine “All Stars” … and more.

Be ond her pro essional endeavors, aile finds solace and o in spending quality time with her loving husband, four children, and beloved dog. Weekends are cherished moments for her amil , where the can be ound en o in each other s compan and exploring the beautiful surroundings of Orange County. Hailey’s unwavering commitment to her clients is evident in her five-star reviews, proves her attention to ever detail o every transaction from start to close. Her clients describe her as dependable, “The OC expert”, and the BEST negotiator around! Hailey is the real estate agent you can rely on to guide ou throu h the e citin ourne o bu in or sellin in ran e County.

714.878.0877 | Hailey.potok@elliman.com ocforeverhomes.com

Douglas Elliman

DRE# 02024094

THE POTOK GROUP-TEAM LEAD | DOUGLAS ELLIMAN

Heather Lovato shines in the dynamic Los Angeles public relations scene as the CEO and Founder of clover PR. Fueled b a enuine passion or seein brands flourish throu h media coverage, Lovato’s remembers a pivotal moment when she learned to embrace the personal side of business, trusting intuition over societal pressures, breaking free from burnout, and refocusing on her vision.

clover PR’s distinctive growth strategy, driven by referrals and a focus on ideal clients, positions the agency uniquely. Lovato emphasizes the importance of discernment in partnership choices and seamlessly integrating SEO and PR for impactful brand marketin . An influential entrepreneur, Lovato empowers women in PR through initiatives like her women’s wellness brand, Girl Bye, and speaking engagements at events like HERCONFERENCE.

“Women need to be reminded it’s ok to be feminine in business,” Lovato said. “The world needs it.“ Proud of her perseverance and the distinctive culture at clover PR, Lovato envisions expansion, not only for her client roster but also for her women-led team, with an impressive portfolio including brands like Andaz Maui, barre3, Manduka and Origins.

wearecloverpr.com

A DELICIOUS ONE WEEK DINING ADVENTURE

MARCH 3 - 9, 2024

Live Happy, Dine Out!

This restaurant adventure is designed for food lovers to celebrate however they like - date nights, luxury menus, explore new restaurants and more!

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

ALISO VIEJO

Citrus Fresh Grill

50 Enterprise, 949-643-6700 clubsports.com/citrus-fresh-grill-and-market-restaurant

Webb’s Grainworks 7 Journey, webbsgrainworks.com

ANAHEIM

Anaheim White House 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-772-1381 anaheimwhitehouse.com

Great Maple

1717 Disneyland Dr. #101, 714-239-5655 greatmaple.com

Pacita's Modern Filipino Kitchen 2410 E. Katella Ave., 714-904-1199 pacitasmfk.com

Puesto Anaheim

1040 W. Katella Ave., 714-294-0362 eatpuesto.com/location/anaheim

Tangerine Room

1030 W. Katella Ave., 657-279-9786 tangerineroom.com

BREA

Brunos Italian Kitchen 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000 brunosbrea.com

Cedar Creek Inn

20 Pointe Dr., 714-255-5600 cedarcreekbrea.com

ChaCha’s Kitchen

110 W. Birch St., #7, 714-255-1040 chachaslatinkitchen.com

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que 1639 E. Imperial Hwy., 714-990-4944 lucillesbbq.com

CORONA DEL MAR

Farmhouse at Roger's Garden 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd., 949-640-1415 farmhouse.rogersgardens.com

Five Crowns

3801 E. Coast Hwy., 949-760-0331 lawr sonline.com five-crowns

SideDoor

3801 E. Coast Hwy., 949-717-4322 lawrysonline.com/sidedoor-corona-del-mar

The Bungalow Restaurant

2441 E. Coast Hwy., 949-673-6585 thebungalowrestaurant.com

COSTA MESA

AnQi Bistro

3333 Bristol St., 714-557-5679 anqibistro.com

Cafe Sevilla Restaurant & Tapas Bar 1870 Harbor Blvd., 949-688-1555 cafesevilla.com

Churriño

3333 S Bristol St., 714-884-4775 churrino.com

Descanos Restaurant

1555 Adams Ave., #103, 714-486-3798 descansorestaurant.com

Fermentation Farm

1125 Victoria St., #R, 949-650-0830 fermfarm.com

Greenhouse Coffee Bar & Eatery

3210 Park Center Dr. Suite 150, 949-205-7323

greenhouse.aramarkcafe.com

Habana

2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176 restauranthabana.com

HoléSmokes

1500 Adams Ave. #100B., 714-677-0531 holesmokes.com

Le Shrimp Noodle Bar

3333 Bristol St., BLM 5, 714-884-4693 paradisegp.com/USA

MESA

725 Baker St., 714-557-6700 mesacostamesa.com

Paradise Dynasty

3333 Bristol St., BLM, 1 Bloomingdale's, 714-617-4630 paradisegp.com/USA

Playa Mesa

428 E. 17th St., 949-287-5292 playamesa.com

Plums Cafe

369 E. 17th St., 949-722-7586 pluumscafe.com

Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar 3350 Avenue of the Arts, 714-442-8593 silvertrumpetrestaurant.com

Simply Fish

1534 Adams Ave. Ste. D, 949-393-7401 simpl fishsea ood.com

Taco Mesa 647 W 19th St., 949-642-0629 tacomesa.com

The Country Club

330 E. 17th St., 949-281-2582 countryclubcm.com

The Crack Shack 196 E. 17th St., 949-383-5040 crackshack.com

Wild Goose Tavern

436 E. 17th St., 949-722-9453 goosebar.com

DANA POINT

AVEO Table + Bar

1 Monarch Beach Resort N, 949-234-3915 waldorfastoriamonarchbeach.com/dine/ aveo-table-bar

Luciana's Ristorante 24312 Del Prado Ave, 949-661-6500 lucianas.com

StillWater Spirits & Sounds 24701 Del Prado Ave., 949-661-6003 danapointstillwater.com

Whitestone Restaurant & Bar 34212 Pacific oast w . nit A, 949-489-8911 whitestonerestaurant.com

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Cambalache Argentine 8780 Warner Ave., 714-375-3305 cambalachegrill.com

Taste of Beauty 18420 Brookhurst St., 714-587-9113 thetasteofbeauty.com

FULLERTON

High Horse Saloon 102 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-384-7400 highhorseoc.com

Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081 khansaaboc.com

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

Madero 1899

111 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-338-2446 madero1899.com

Mickey’s Irish Pub

100 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-384-7600 mickeyspuboc.com

Summit House

2000 E. Bastanchury Rd., 714-671-4111 summithouse.com

GARDEN GROVE

NOVA Kitchen & Bar 12361 Chapman Ave., 714-696-0888 novaoc.com

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Bluegold 21016 PCH, #D200, 714-374-0038 dineblueegold.com

Cabo Wabo Beach Club 21100 Pacific oast w ., 800-845-8444 cabowabobeachclub.com

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ 7862 Warner Ave., #109, 714-842-8333 gyu-kaku.com

Henry’s Coastal Cuisine

21100 Pacific oast w ., 714-845-8000 water rontresort.com dinin henr s-uncorked-patio-wine-bar

Indigo | Modern Indian Bistro 21020 Beach Blvd., 657-301-2013 indigorestaurants.com

Market Broiler

20111 Brookhurst St., 714-963-7796 marketbroiler.com huntin ton

Offshore9 Rooftop Lounge

21100 Pacific oast w ., 714-845-8000 water rontresort.com dinin o shore9-roo top-loun e

Pita Feast 6846 din er Ave., 714-375-2082 pita east.com

Red Table

16821 Al on uin St. 105, 714-846-4700 redtablerestaurants.com

IRVINE

Angelina’s Pizzeria Napoletana 8573 rvine enter r., 949-536-5200 angelinaspizzeria.com

Aria Kitchen

2636 Dupont Dr., 949-932-0620 ariakitchen.co

Benny and Mary's

18420 Von Karman Ave., #100., 714-439-1733 bennyandmarys.com

Brio Italian Grille

774 Spectrum Center Dr., 949-341-0380 brioitalian.com locations spectrum

Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen 13126 Jamboree Rd., 714-408-7819 chachaslatinkitchen.com

CUCINA enoteca Irvine

532 Spectrum enter r., 949-861-2222 urbankitchen roup.com cucina-enotecairvine

Eureka!

4143 ampus r., 949-596-8881 eurekarestaurant roup.com locations irvine

Falasophy

920 Spectrum Center Dr., #920, 949-536-5008 alasoph .com

Haagen-Dazs

at rvine Spectrum enter 745 Spectrum enter r. located at the Giant Ferrish Wheel

Habana

708 Spectrum Center Dr., 949-419-0100 restauranthabana.com

Herb & Ranch

5301 ali ornia Ave., 140, 949-316-4491 herbandranch.com

Hui Lau Shan

5365 Alton Pkw . M, 949-418-7989 huilaushan.us

Il Fornaio

18051 on arman Ave., 949-261-1444 il ornaio.com location il- ornaio-irvine

Izakaya Osen

2000 Main St. 100, 949-308-4290 i aka aosen.com irvinemenu

JA Jiaozi Authentic Dumplings

13776 Jamboree Rd., 714-786-8999 jajiaozi.com

Left Coast Brewing

6652 rvine enter r., 949-387-5170 le tcoastbrewin .com

Little Sister

896 Spectrum Center Dr., 949-800-8798 dinelittlesister.com irvine-in o

Maldon's Bistro

2010 Main St., 180, 949-336-4518 maldons-bistro.com

MoonGoat Coffee

5171 ali ornia Ave., nit 100 moongoat.com

O Fine Japanese Cuisine

6731 uail ill Pkw ., 949-748-1896 ofine apanesecuisine.com

OC Fish Grill 5789 Alton Pkw ., 949-988-7002 ocfish rill.com

Olive Grove Cafe 150 Pro ress 125., 949-418-9207 eurestca es.compass-usa.com liveGrovea e Pa es ome.asp lid a1

Oliver's Trattoria

6511 uail ill Pkw ., 949-418-8107 oliverstrattoria.com

Park Bistro Cafe

1 Park Pla a, Suite 165, 951-258-1349 eurestca es.compass-usa.com ParkBistro Pa es ome.asp lid a1

Paul Martin’s American Grill 534 Spectrum enter r., 949-453-1144 paulmartinsamericangrill.com

Pieology The Market Place

13786 amboree d., 714-389-0522 order.pieolo .com location 8010 menu

Poached Neighborhood Kitchen 17595 arvard Ave A, 949-860-1573, poachedkitchen.com

Puesto Los Olivos 8577 rvine enter r., 949-608-9990 eatpuesto.com

Puesto Park Place 3311 Michelson r., 949-608-7272 eatpuesto.com

Robata Wasa 926 Spectrum Center Dr., #926, 949-536-5064, robatawasa.com

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

13652 Jamboree Rd., 714-508-7990 macaronigrill.com

Spectrum Kitchen

400 Spectrum Center Dr., #150, 714-399-8474 spectrumkitchen.com

sweetgreen

714 Spectrum Center Dr., 949-577-6816 sweetgreen.com

Taco Rosa

13792 Jamboree Rd., 714-505-6080 tacorosa.com

Tea Maru

6785 Quail Hill Pkwy., 949-783-9808 tea-maru-irvine.square.site

Terrace Kitchen

17220 Laguna Canyon Rd., 949-522-2201 eurestcafes.compass-usa.com/TerraceKitchen/Pages/Home.aspx?lid=a1

Thirty Four Bar & Bistro 13300 Jamboree Rd., 657-660-5208 mathishome.com/information/thirty-fourbar-and-bistro.html

LA HABRA

Rub Red's BBQ

1841 W Imperial Hwy., 562-735-4545 rubyreds-bbq.com

LADERA RANCH

Taco Mesa

27702 Crown Valley Pkwy., 949-364-1957 tacomesa.com

LAGUNA BEACH

Bodega Laguna

400 S Coast Hwy., 949-715-1002 bodegalaguna.com

Lumberyard Restaurant

384 Forest Ave., #10, 949-715-9300 lblumberyard.com

Mozambique

1740 S. Coast Hwy., 949-715-7777 mozambiqueoc.com

Nirvana Kitchen + Pantry 303 Broadway St., # 101, 949-497-0027 nirvanagrille.com

O Fine Japanese Cuisine

30872 Coast Hwy., 949-715-5551 ofine apanesecuisine.com

Oak

1100 South Coast Hwy., #202, 949-940-3010 oak-lagunabeach.com

Oliver's Osteria

853 Laguna Canyon Rd., 949-715-0261 oliversosteria.com

Rumaari

1826 S Coast Hwy.,949-494-0400 rumarioc.com

Sapphire, Cellar. Craft. Cook.

1200 S. Coast Hwy., #101, 949-715-9888 sapphirelaguna.com

Skyloft

422 S. Coast Hwy., 949-715-1550 skyloftoc.com

Starfish

30832 S. Coast Hwy., 949-715-9200, starfishla una.com

LAGUNA HILLS

Ironwood, Cellar. Craft. Cook. 25250 La Paz Rd., 949-446-8772 ironwoodlagunahills.com

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

Scratch Bakery Cafe 24321 Avenida De La Carlota, 949-859-2253

scratchbakerycafe.com

Villa Roma 25254 La Paz Rd., #B, 949-454-8585 villaromarest.com

LAGUNA NIGUEL

Bottega Angelina

32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220 bottegaangelina.com

Jars Sweet & Things

27981 Greenfield r. Ste ., 949-716-1221 jarsbyfabioviviani.com

Rangeen Kitchen

28241 rown alle Pkw Suite G, 949-446-9706 rangeenkitchen.com

LAKE FOREST

Brü Grill & Market 23730 El Toro Rd., 949-305-5757 bru rill.com

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que 23760 El Toro Rd., 949-581-7427 lucillesbb .com

Mission Viejo

Dizzy Bird

555 he, Shops At Mission ie o, 657-614-7133 dizzybird.com

Pub Thirty-Two

23962 Alicia Pkwy., 949-716-0687 pubthirt two.com

Taco Mesa

22922 Los Alisos Blvd., Suite P , 949-472-3144 tacomesa.com

NEWPORT BEACH

Billy’s at the Beach

2751 West oast w ., 949-722-1100 billysatthebeach.net

Blaze Pizza Fashion Island 1091 Newport enter r, 949-612-2749 bla epi a.com

Cappy’s Cafe

5930 West oast w ., 949-646-4202 capp sca e.com

City Cruises

2431 West oast w ., 949-541-6367 cit e periences.com newport-beach cit -cruises

CUCINA enoteca Newport Beach

951 Newport enter r., 949-706-1416 urbankitchen roup.com

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse

455 Newport enter r., 949-720-9633 flemin ssteakhouse.com

Fly N Fish Oyster Bar & Grill

2304 W. Oceanfront, 949-673-8400 fl nfisho sterbar.com

Gelato Paradiso

401 Newport enter r., Suite A102, 949718-9800 elatoparadiso.com

Gracias Madre

1617 Westcliff Dr., 949-386-8100 graciasmadre.com

Great Maple

1133 Newport enter r., 949-706-8282 the reatmaple.com newport

Harborside Restaurant

400 Main St., 949-673-4633 harborside-pavilion.com

Lido Bottle Works

3408 ia porto, 103, 949-529-2784 lidobottleworks.com

Lighthouse Café

1600 W. Balboa Blvd., 949-933-1001 li hthousenb.com

Mayor's Table at Lido House 3300 Newport Blvd., 949-662-6160 lidohousehotel.com ma ors-table-pacificpub.html

Muldoon’s Irish Pub 202 Newport enter r., 949-640-4110 muldoonspub.com

Newport Landing

503 Edgewater Pl., 949-675-2373 newport-landin .com

Olea, Cellar. Craft. Cook. 2001 Westcliff Dr., #100, 949-287-6807 oleanewportbeach.com

Pacific Breeze

800 Newport enter r., 949-520-7069 pacificbree eca e.com

Pressed Juicery

1181 Newport enter r., 949-287-0118 pressed.com

Red O Restaurant

143 Newport enter r., 949-718-0300 redorestaurant.com

Rockin Baja Lobster 2104 W. Oceanfront, 949-723-0606 rockinba a.com newport-beach

Scratch Bakery Cafe

561 Newport enter r., 949-524-8200 scratchbakerycafe.com

Starfish

191 Riverside Ave., 949-570-3990 starfishcali ornia.com newportbeach

Taco Rosa

2632 San Mi uel r., 949-720-0980 tacorosa.com

Woody’s Wharf 2318 Newport Blvd., 949-675-0474 woodyswharf.com

Zabb Thai Cuisine

4001 West oast w ., 949-432-5443 abbthaicuisine.com

Zood

401 Newport enter r., A107 ashionisland.com director ood

ORANGE

1886 Brewing

114 N. Glassell St., 714-922-8130 1886brewingco.com

Citrus City Grille

122 N. Glassell St., 714-639-9600 citruscit rille.com

Haven Craft Kitchen+Bar

190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680 havencraftkitchen.com

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que 4050 W. hapman Ave., 714-634-1227 lucillesbb .com

Market Broiler

20 City Blvd. W, 714-769-3474 marketbroiler.com/orange

O SEA

109 S. Glassell St., 714-363-3309 eatosea.com

Prime Cut Café 1547 W. Katella Ave., 714-532-4300 primecutcafe.com

Taco Mesa

3533 E. Chapman Ave., 714-633-3922 tacomesa.com

The Peel Craftbar & Kitchen 100 The City Dr. S., 714-634-4500 peelcraftbar.com

PLACENTIA

Mr. D's 126 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714-985-1111 mrdsrestaurants.com

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Il Sole La Nuova Cucina

31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy. Suite M. 949-264-6161 ilsolecucina.com

SAN CLEMENTE

Avila’s El Ranchito

204 Avenida Del Mar, #A, 949-498-5000 avilaselranchito.com

Chelas Mexican Kitchen 1011 Avenida Pico, 949-542-4606 chelasmexkitchen.com

Vine Restaurant & Bar

211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079 vinesanclemente.com

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Bloom, Restaurant + Bar 31760 Old Mission Rd., Suite A, 949-991-5078 bloomsanjuancapistrano.com

Rancho Capistrano Winery

26755 Verdugo St., 949-481-6682 ranchocapwinery.com

Sundried Tomato American Bistro

31781 Camino Capistrano, 949-661-1167 sundriedtomato.com

Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge 31692 El Camino Real, 949-503-5700 innatthemissinsjc.com

SANTA ANA

Avila’s El Ranchito

2201 E. First St., 714-547-9129 avilaselranchito.com/santa-ana

Benchmark

601 E. Santa Ana Blvd., 714-480-0225 benchmarkoc.com

Casa Ramos 717 S. Main St., 657-232-1096 casaramosrestaurant.com

Chapter One: The Modern Local 227 N. Broadway, 714-352-2225 chapteronetml.com

Congregation Ale House

201 N. Broadway, 714-285-2337 congregationalehouse.com

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken 102 N. Sycamore St., 949-336-3936 gusfriedchicken.com/locations/santa-anacalifornia

Hammer Burger

313 N. Bush St., 657-218-9992 hammerburger.com

Lola Gaspar

211 W. 2nd St., 714-972-1172 lolagaspar.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse

1641 W. Sunflower Ave., 714-444-4834 mortons.com/location/mortons-the-steakhouse-santa-ana-ca

Native Son

305 E. 4th St., Suite 200, 714-760-4422 nativesonbar.com

Perla Mexican Cuisine

400 W. 4th St., 714-316-5421 perladtsa.com

TACOMPADRE

515 N. Main St., Suite A, 657-900-2996 tacompadreoc.com

Tacos TJ Style

1718 S. Grand Ave.,714-889-8730

Tea Maru

1951 E. Dyer, #G, 949-288-3289 tea-maru-santa-ana.square.site

The Pizza Press

117 W. 4th St., 714-760-4425 thepizzapress.com/location/santa-ana-ca

Vacation Bar

204 W 4th St., 714-760-4113 vacationdtsa.com

TUSTIN

399 Vietnamese Kitchen 13254 Jamboree Rd., 949-551-5990 399kitchen.com

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

14181 Newport Ave., 714-731-1719 gyu-kaku.com

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que 2550 Park Ave., 714-259-1227 lucillesbbq.com

Luna Rossa

2449 Park Ave., 714-259-0861 lunarossatustin.com

Perfect Catch 3040 El Camino Real, 714-613-0300 pacificcatch.com

RA Sushi 2401 Park Ave., 714-566-1700 rasushi.com

RAKKAN Ramen

2427 Park Ave., 657-207-2344 rakkanramen.com/locations/tustin sweetgreen 15090 Kensington Park Dr., 562-600-5713 sweetgreen.com

Taco Mesita 765 El Camino Real, 657-293-4166 tacomesita.com

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600 thewineryrestaurant.net

The Yellow Chilli 2463 Park Ave., 714-389-5280 theyellowchillitustin.com

YORBA LINDA

Apola Greek Grill

18427 Yorba Linda Blvd., 833-328-4976 eatapola.com

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

NEW 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, webbsg rainworks.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 Calif ornian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$

POPPY & SEED

Chef-owner Michael Reed applies his versatile chops to a spirited, seasonal dinner menu of share plates and thoughtful proteins. Clever variations on of-the-moment produce are high points, as are premium steaks and duck dishes. The one-of-a-kind greenhouse garden setting is a calming contrast to neighbor Anaheim Packing House. Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$

THE RANCH

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

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

OUR CRITERIA

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 Lag una 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. $$

BREA

BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN

One of North County’s best venues boasts advantages that are fairly rare in these parts: thoughtfully executed Italian cuisine, a cozy setting, and appealing prices. This sibling of neighbor Cha Cha’s does winning arancini, steamed mussels, house-made pappardelle, and a fine branzino. A notable happy hour features steep discounts on terrific appetizers and signature Italian cocktails. 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000. $$

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN

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

Restaurants are reviewed by our dining critics and sta and have no relationship to advertising in Orange Coast. Listings are updated regularly. We do not accept free meals; visits are anonymous. Price classifications are based on a typical three-course dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert) for one person. Alan Gibbons edits this listing. You can reach her at agibbons@orangecoast.com.

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 Hig hway, 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 Hig hway, 949-220-7229. Lunch only. $$

EL CHOLO

It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Hig hway, 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 program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaq uin 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

THE COUNTRY CLUB

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 Hig hway, 949-760-0331. Dinner only. $$$

SIDEDOOR

Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes comeas-you-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$

COSTA MESA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO ]

BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE

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 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 adults-only setting with Gatsby-era glam. Highclass drinks 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.

Steak salad at Butcher’s House Brasserie

PHOTOGRAPH

DISNEY GREATS | GREAT MAPLE

Upscale comfort eatery Great Maple, well known for its Fashion Island location, opens at new Pixar Place Hotel, Disney’s reimagined Paradise Pier Hotel. The decor and the modern American menu manage to be at once fun and grown-up. The interior tastefully, and o˜ en touchingly, incorporates Pixar characters. The restaurant’s namesake ingredient figures in dishes such as maple pecan-crusted salmon; bu° ermilk fried chicken and maple-bacon doughnuts; and, at brunch, a thick-cut brioche French toast log with warm

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. $

OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR

Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with competing options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about

house-made maple-bacon syrup. Other signatures include charred-cauli˛ ower hummus, Cajun shrimp Benedict on whitecheddar biscuit, and soda-pop-braised baby-back ribs. There’s a bar and, a Disney rarity, a street-side patio. Elsewhere on the property, the group launches the lobby Sketch Pad Café, particularly handy for morning co˝ ee and grab-and-go, and the roo˜ op deck bar Small Bytes, o˝ ering its own menu of bites and beverages and breathtaking views of Disneyland Park fireworks. 1717 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714-239-5655, thegreatmaple.com BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night. Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world over, and he regularly leads culinary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$

VERDANT

Sleek Orange County Museum of Art taps the same creative team behind nearby Populaire for its airy top-floor eatery. The plant-centric menu is a taut dozen or so dishes that skew to daytime meals of salads, toasts, and vegetable plates, all 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. $$

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. $$$

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. $$

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

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. $$

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 Pacif ic Coast Hig hway, 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 Pacif ic Coast Hig hway, 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 Pacif ic Coast Hig hway, 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 commu-

nal table. 16821 Alg onquin 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 sandwiches that eat like a meal for two are gourmet creations, meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. From-scratch soups, sides, and dressings. A surfer ethos extends to hearty breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 414 Pacif ic Coast Hig hway, 714-594-3899. Beer and wine. See Irvine and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

IRVINE

ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS

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

BISTANGO

A longtime airport-area mainstay, Bistango has remained surprisingly contemporary, with creative dishes such as sweet, soulful garlic soup, and black truffle ravioli. It’s also a classy venue for live music, and its rotating art collection adds to the air of urban sophistication. 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949-752-5222. $$$

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. $$

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. $$$

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 Hunting ton Beach location at 7821 Eding er Ave., 714-316-0151. $$

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 Hunting ton 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. $$$

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 Hig hway, 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 Hig hway, 949484-8140. $$

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. $$

Brown butter roasted maitake mushrooms at Porch & Swing

NICK’S

Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grownups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of tasty cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with modern twists. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened halibut sandwich. Softly lit and cushily appointed, the open-air space boasts a sidewalk patio. Sociable service is notably polished. 440 S. Coast Hig hway, 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 Lag una 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 Hig hway, 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. $$$

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 Hig hway, 949-715-9200. $$$

LAGUNA HILLS

IRONWOOD

The savvy team behind Vine in San Clemente notches another hit with this welcoming dinner house in a zone with scant options. Executive chef Jared Cook’s modern, seasonal menu roams from delicate to hearty, but all dishes showcase his knack for upping the crave factor. Examples: chicken schnitzel with mushrooms, Zinfandel-braised lamb shank with mint yogurt. Terrific craft cocktails shift with the seasons. On-point service from a gracious crew. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-4468772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL

BOTTEGA ANGELINA

This chic Italian is a grand showpiece by the team behind Pizzeria Angelina. 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, 949-4097380. See second location in South Coast Metro. 3333 Bristol St., 714-462-1445. $$$

HENDRIX

Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hendrix is 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 olden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$

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. $

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 gas-

Seafood trio at Caló Kitchen + Tequila

tropub 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. $$

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, insiders stop in Friday night for a legendary jam session in the bar. Prix fixe menus are a strength here. 900 Bayside Drive, 949-721-1222. $$$

BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE

Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse cannoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite. Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. Sublime chefs’ dinners are intimate, unforgettable affairs. 1200 Bison Ave., 949-520-7191. $$$

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. $$

CUCINA ALESSÁ

Despite the exit of its founding chef, this 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. 6700 W. Coast Hig hway, 949-645-2148. See Hunting ton Beach location. $$

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. $$

FABLE & SPIRIT

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2020

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. $$$

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. $$$

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

From the family behind Dublin 4 comes this lush addition to the area across from Lido Marina Village. But

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 Westclif f 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.

Heirloom beet salad at Fable & Spirit

Don’t miss the ceviche trio, mole blanco enchiladas, short rib taquitos, and some impressive surfand-turf deals. Aficionados of agave spirits should check out the terrific collection. 3110 Newport Blvd., 949-220-1290, $$$

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 Hunting ton 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. $$$

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 drinks. 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 Lag una 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 Mig uel 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. $$

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 Hig hway, 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 suck-

ling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only. 7862 E. Pacif ic Coast Hig hway, 714434-7900. $$$

WASA SUSHI

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

ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST

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

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. $$

GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

Gabbi Patrick grew up working in her family’s Mexican restaurants, then studied at the Greystone

Mole blanco enchiladas at Palmilla Cocina Y Tequila

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

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 req uired. $$$

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 $$

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 popular on weekend mornings, and served until 3 p.m. 201 S. Bradf ord 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 Hig hway, 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 Marg arita Parkway, 949-888-0072. Second location (not reviewed) in Yorba Linda, 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2593. $$

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN

This lakefront sprawler offers top-notch Cal-Mex fare from the culinary vision of owner Clemente

at Rare Society

MRK PUBLIC

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 Marg arita Parkway, 949-709-7600. See Lag una Beach location. $$

SAN CLEMENTE

BRICK

The menu of authentic, seasonal cuisine says Italy, but the unfussy setting and beach-casual regulars make for a solid California vibe at this trattoria by chef-owner David Pratt. Thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired Valoriani oven are composed with care, but don’t miss the house-made pastas and seasonal salads. Amazing meatballs, too. 216 N. El Camino Real, 949-429-1199. $$

GEMA

BEST NEW

RESTAURANT 2023

Executive chef Juan Pablo Cruz and owner Sarah Resendiz 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. 555 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2855. Dinner only. $$$

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 Lag una 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, 949-699-7273 $$$$

SOUTH OF NICK’S

From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at

Beef tartare

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

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 Hig hway, 949-376-8595. $$

VINE

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

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

BLOOM

This charming spot packs its 90-seat house with followers of its siblings (Ironwood, Olea, Sapphire, Vine) and fans of wine country eats by Jared Cook, craft cocktails by Gabe Whorely, and the inimitable hospitality of owner Russ Bendel. Winners include fried squash blossoms, bourbon-spiked pâté, herb-brined pork porterhouse, and Idaho trout over sprightly succotash. The artfully retrofitted 1923 brick digs are just steps from Mission San Juan Capistrano. 31760 Old Mission Road, 949-503-2654 $$$

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. $$

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. Spurg eon 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 all-

Euro 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 Pacif ic Coast Hig hway, 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

Hamachi ceviche at Chato’s Bar and Grill

PHOTOGRAPH BY EMILY J. DAVIS

DINING GUIDE

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 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 Plaz a 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 Lag una Nig uel. $$$

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 Plaz a 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

Chicken and waffles at Tableau Kitchen and Bar

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. Sunf lower 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 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. $$

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

Ahmed Elgazar, DDS has been dedicated to serving Orange County for an impressive 25 years. His wealth of experience encompasses expertise in cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, and restorative dentistry including implants and crowns. Dr. Elgazar stands out for his commitment to advanced technology, utilizing the CEREC machine to provide same-day crowns. This state-of-theart technology enables e cient and precise crown placements, reflecting his commitment to delivering convenient and high-quality dental care. With a focus on patient satisfaction and comprehensive dental solutions, Dr. Ahmed Elgazar continues to be a trusted figure in Orange County’s dental community.

14051 Newport Avenue, Suite B2, Tustin, CA 92780 714-838-1199 | Tustindentistcenter.com

DINING GUIDE

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 pibiland 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. $

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 part-

ners 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 week-

end 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. $$

photograph by SCOTT SMELTZER

Rising sun sushi roll at Pacific Catch

HANG TIME

Trabuco Hills High alum Anna Hazlett, who goes by Anna Hazelnutt online, is a rising star in the world of rock climbing with more than 100K subscribers on YouTube. by Astgik Khatchatryan

Is this your full-time job?

Yeah, I’m really lucky in that I can travel all over the world climbing and making videos. It has given me the opportunity to be spontaneous and a bit nomadic.

What are some memorable climbs you’ve done?

Last year, I was the first woman to complete the Walk of Life, which is this infamously difficult and scary climb in England that’s about 50 meters. It’s a traditional climb, which means the wall is empty and you place your own safety gear as you go up. It’s a difficult sequence, but I wanted to push myself.

What’s the idea behind your catchphrase “Slab is sexy”?

Slab is the style of climbing I prefer. It’s when the wall is just past vertical where you can lean in toward it. It looks like it should be easier, but the holds are so tiny and if you fall, you’re going to hit the wall. It’s a very technical style; you can’t just rely on strength. And because it’s been historically favored by women, it’s notoriously devalued. I hope to change that narrative.

Tell us about your videos. I’ve been doing more documentary-style videos lately, but I also love doing fun

climbing challenge videos with my friend Irena (Ilic). We did one where we convinced our moms to go climbing, and they ended up loving it. It was so wholesome and a great bonding experience. My mom is a runner, and there was a time when she wasn’t too happy when I switched from track to climbing. And even though she’s supportive now, she hadn’t really seen me climb much in person. She was like, “Annita, I understand your world now.”

GOOD TIMES