When the first copies of Best of Orange County rolled off the presses in 1994, pickleball was a niche sport played mainly by older folks. In the pages of the Orange County Register, the first mention of pickleball appeared a few months later, in a story about Irvine’s Lakeview Senior Center.
Three decades later, pickleball is far and away America’s fastest-growing participation sport, as 13.6 million people played the game in 2023, a 52% jump from the year before, with millennials and Gen Z folks making up a lot of the increase. And this year, for the first time, the Best of Orange County survey asked readers to choose the best pickleball courts in Orange County. The results are in the magazine you’re holding.
Like the area it serves, the Best of Orange County is constantly evolving. Orange County has grown, creating new communities such as Las Flores and Newport Coast. Best of Orange County has adapted alongside it, expanding to cover the changing nature of life here. As people’s interests have evolved, Best of Orange County has reflected those changes.
Wine production in Southern California has increased substantially over the past 20 years. Temecula Valley Wine Country in Riverside County has grown into a major viticultural region with nearly 50 wineries, while San Juan Capistrano also has a growing wine scene. This year, Best of Orange County adds the category of best Southern California winery — and readers chose wineries in both Temecula and O.C.
While not quite as hot a fad as pickleball, dog ownership has grown steadily — remember the “pandemic pets” craze? — in recent years. The percentage of households with dogs increased by more than 6% from 2016 to
2022, according to Forbes. People want to bring their “fur-babies” with them when they go out to eat, so this year the Best of Orange County added another new voting category: Best dogfriendly restaurant.
Community college enrollment in California last fall topped 2 million students for the first time since the pandemic. In addition to pursuing associate’s degrees or preparing to transfer to four-year universities, community college students are increasingly enrolling in short-term certificate programs such as accounting and cybersecurity. And so, for this year, Best of Orange County adds best community college as a new voting category, joining existing higher-education categories for fouryear colleges, nursing schools and trade schools.
Two new health-related categories — best assisted living and best urgent care — also make their debuts this year.
With these new additions, Best of Orange County now boasts 81 voting categories, including old favorites such as best beach, best burger and best city to live in. We hope that you will keep this magazine to use as a reference throughout the year to find new places to eat, new places to go to and new businesses to support.
While none of us knows the future, it’s a safe bet that Orange County will continue to grow and change. And, it’s also a safe bet that Best of Orange County will continue to evolve right along with it.
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Riders make their way past AT-ATs during Rise of the Resistance at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
1. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance DISNEYLAND
Rise of the Resistance returns to the top spot after relinquishing its reign in 2023’s Best of OC survey. The epic dark ride debuted in 2019 in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland.
The ambitious, first-of-its-kind attraction combines four separate ride systems with state-of-the-art audio-animatronics and visual effects.
Rise of the Resistance enlists recruits to join a battle between the villainous First Order and the heroic Resistance.
The backstory for the attraction finds riders entering a dense forest where the Resistance has set up a temporary and secret military base camp outside of the Black Spire Outpost village on the Star Wars planet of Batuu, the setting for the 14-acre Galaxy’s Edge themed land. Along the way, the recruits will be captured aboard a Star Destroyer, break out of a First Order detention cell, elude the clutches of Kylo Ren and escape back to a secret base on Batuu. – Brady MacDonald
2. Soarin’ Around the World
DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE
The Soarin’ hang-gliding flight simulator ride in the Grizzly Peak section of Disney California Adventure combines a mechanical lift system with three rows of seats and an 80-foot-tall concave domed movie screen.
The five-minute IMAX “Soarin’ Around the World” film visits 13 places around the globe, flying so close you’ll wonder how the filmmakers got permission to capture the footage. The camera flies through towering buttes in Monument Valley and within feet of the Eiffel Tower.
The short film makes many subtle nods to Disney films and history, including “Cars” (Monument Valley), “Ratatouille” (Paris), “Finding Nemo” (Sydney Harbour), “Moana” (the South Pacific), Disneyland’s castle (based on Neuschwanstein) and the park’s Matterhorn bobsled coaster (Switzerland).
The film employs several clever transitions from scene to scene, including a scary seaplane barreling toward you, a playful kite that swoops across the screen and an eagle with wings spread.
The original Soarin’ Over California debuted at Disney California Adventure when the park opened in 2001 with scenes from throughout the state. The original version of the attraction occasionally returns to Disney California Adventure for limited runs.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean DISNEYLAND
It’s no surprise that this ride is one of the top attractions in O.C., because it remains a charming boat trip into a pirate’s lair that seems to be timeless — even after more than 50 years in Disneyland’s New Orleans Square.
Its popularity is only enhanced by the fact that visitors get 15 minutes of cool, watery pleasure off their feet that often provides a respite from brutal heat in the park. And the hit movies starring Johnny Depp based on the ride only add to the appeal.
Disney replaced the previous “buy-a-bride” scene that some found offensive with a newer scene starring a feisty red-haired female pirate named (what else?) Redd.
This is the last ride that Walt Disney himself had a hand in creating, although he died before it opened, so to the most ardent Disney fans, it’s sacred ground. To tired parents everywhere, it’s a chance to cool off and rest their feet.
1. Huntington City Beach
PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY BETWEEN BEACH BOULEVARD AND SEAPOINT STREET, HUNTINGTON BEACH; SURFCITYUSA.COM/THINGS-TO-DO/BEACHES/HUNTINGTON-CITY-BEACH/
It would make sense that the town with the moniker Surf City would also have the best landing spot for its iconic waves. That is the case, once again, for City Beach in Huntington Beach.
Spread over 2.5 miles of prime real estate in the 8.5 miles of shoreline in Huntington Beach, City Beach, or “main beach,” holds a prime spot geographically, scenically and in the opinion of readers.
“Unlike other O.C. beaches, Huntington Beach has countless sand-to-ocean activities from sunrise to after sundown for visitors to choose from depending on their interests and budget,” said Clara Tsang of Visit Huntington Beach — Surf City USA.
These, she said, can range from roasting s’mores at more than 500 bonfire pits, to checking out the consistently excellent surf.
City Beach is home to signature surfing and sports competitions as well as surfside entertainment, including the U.S. Open of
Surfing, AVP Huntington Beach Open, and on-thebeach concerts.
Anchoring the beach is Huntington Beach Pier, free and open for fishing, walking
2. Newport Beach Municipal Beach
OCEANFRONT AND 21ST STREET, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-644-3309; VISITNEWPORTBEACH.COM
This 5-mile stretch of beach on the oceanside of the Balboa Bay peninsula, bisected by a picturesque wooden pier, remains a top attraction among O.C. beaches.
The sand is wide and features a nice break for surfers, with “the wedge” at the southern end of the peninsula for the more rad wave riders. Also for sports enthusiasts, beach volleyball can range from high-caliber matches to leisurely pick-up games.
According to Visit Newport Beach, “Swimmers and sunbathers flock to the beach in summer and winter, capping off their day in the sun with a night of casual or fine dining. Skate, bike and board rentals are popular, and surfing off the jetty is prime. The vibe at the Balboa Peninsula is youthful and fun.”
Dining and entertainment are also close at hand.
and sightseeing. Stretching 1,850 feet in length, it is one of the longest and most photographed municipal wharfs on the West Coast. Streetside are a range of
accessible beach experiences, such as an inclusive playground, Mobi-Mats, free beach wheelchair rentals and adaptive surfing lessons. — Greg Mellen
3. Main Beach, Laguna Beach
PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY BETWEEN LAGUNA AVENUE AND CLIFF DRIVE, LAGUNA BEACH; 949-497-9229; VISITLAGUNABEACH.COM/ THINGS-TO-DO/BEACHES/MAIN-BEACH/
Laguna Beach’s signature Main Beach continues to kick sand on bigger, broader, over-advertised dunes in a county known for its world-class surfside attractions. Although small in stature, the beach has an outsize and deserved reputation.
Smack dab in the center of downtown Laguna Beach at the end of Laguna Canyon Road, it is instantly one of the most recognizable venues anywhere. Described as “a quintessential American destination,” by Rachel O’Neill-Cusey, president
and CEO of Visit Laguna Beach, Main Beach packs a diverse array of activities into a small space. These range from beach volleyball and basketball, to a relaxing grassy park, to a wooden boardwalk, to public art, to tranquil surf. And then there is the famous hexagonal circa 1937 lifeguard tower.
Across the street is a busy district of shops, restaurants and parking. A free shuttle is available to get you around without the hassle of driving and parking.
LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST DOWNTOWN
1. Orange
MILE-SQUARE AREA WITH PLAZA PARK AT GLASSELL STREET AND CHAPMAN AVENUE AT ITS CENTER; CITYOFORANGE.ORG
Built to capitalize on its old-timey look and vibe, which resisted the redevelopment that consumed much of Orange County, downtown Orange remains a largely untarnished jewel in the city’s namesake county.
Centered on Plaza Square, with its historic fountain and traffic rotary, Old Towne spreads out into a 1-squaremile historic district, with more than 1,300 homes and businesses; it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997.
“Old Towne Orange brings together shopping, dining and living, while showcasing our city’s unique history,” said Charlene Cheng, public affairs and information manager for the city of Orange. “It’s the heart of our community.”
It takes more than the affectation of adding an “e” to town to keep a district vibrant. Orange is doing that as the City Council and Chamber of Commerce recently launched a “Shop Local” program. Available from the Apple App Store,
2. Fullerton
the platform promotes local shopping and jobs and offers local rewards.
The plaza, laid out in 1880, remains a focal point, mingling with surrounding neighborhoods creating
AREA BOUNDED BY CHAPMAN AVENUE, HIGHLAND AVENUE, THE TRAIN TRACKS AND SANTA FE TRAIN DEPOT AND LEMON STREET; 714-738-6300; CITYOFFULLERTON.COM
Another area that maintains its roots, Downtown Fullerton contains plenty for the history buff as well as the thoroughly modern consumer.
“Downtown has everything from historic places that harken to yesteryear to modern places with all the amenities,” says Nick Dunlap, Fullerton’s mayor and prime cheerleader.
Dunlap says there’s the Fullerton you see driving down Commonwealth Avenue, and then the
Fullerton that natives know, love and are always rediscovering.
Hop out of your car, or ride in on the train and take in the Courtyard of the Historic Visa del Sol, a converted historical hotel, where you can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Then take a stroll down the Walk on Wilshire outdoor pedestrian zone, for a wide array of opportunities.
Popular downtown events such as First Night and the Fourth of July keep the area popping.
what city officials call as “the community’s living room.”
The American Planning Association designated the Plaza area a “Great Place in America.”
Harkening to its historic
3. Santa Ana
identity, the business area is a hive of antiquing, window shopping and dining, with 24 antique shops, 29 specialty shops and about 50 restaurants and cafes. — Greg Mellen
ROSS STREET TO MINTER STREET, FIRST STREET TO CIVIC CENTER DRIVE; SANTA-ANA.ORG/DOWNTOWN
An entertainment and cultural seat in the county seat, Downtown Santa Ana (DTSA) continues to transform its downtown core into a vibrant district that has managed to blend trendy entertainment, retail and mixed-use residential development.
Calle Cuatro, or Fourth Street, buzzes from the Civic Center to a pedestrianfriendly outdoor mall and plaza, with cafes, restaurants, craft breweries, bars, jewelers and other retail. Many of the downtown hotspots are housed in adaptively
reused buildings that retain the historic exterior while restoring the interiors.
Ryan Chase, a fourthgeneration downtown property owner, touts a number of new developments including Rafferty, the first full-city-block, market-rate apartment project to open in DTSA in decades.
The 4th Street Market food hall is home to 15 independent vendors, and new murals have gone up throughout downtown. And in 2025, the 4-mile OC Streetcar is scheduled to open.
88 FAIR DRIVE, COSTA MESA; 714-708-1500; OCFAIR.COM
With a history dating back to the late 1800s, the OC Fair is among the biggest events of its kind in America. The fair offers enough entertainment, attractions, livestock and shopping to keep locals coming back for more. Annual attendance regularly tops a million people. Michele Richards, the OC Fair & Event Center CEO, says the fair serves as a “reflection of the community as a whole — who we are, what we enjoy, how we see ourselves, and how we fit into the rich diversity of Orange County.”
Teenagers and young families gravitate toward dozens of rides at Kidland and the carnival midway area. Children also revel in the petting zoo and pig races. Various fair competition entries (fine arts, photography) are displayed. Guests can attend culinary demos, a craft beer festival and indulge in deep-fried delicacies, funnel cake, corn dogs, turkey legs and tri-tip. “Guests love the crazy food at the OC Fair,” Richards
says. “It’s always No. 1 on our customer surveys.”
Live community performances happen across a half-dozen stages. This past summer boasted another stellar headline Pacific Amphitheatre lineup
Classic and contemporary artworks come to life in a unique presentation (Pageant of the Masters, started in 1932) that melds storytelling and music. And more than 100 local artists comprise the festival’s juried fine art show, Festival of Arts, which also features a weekly music series. This past summer’s multi-genre lineup included such notable performers as Nathan East, Poncho Sanchez and Brian Bromberg. A Family Art Day, Festival Runway Fashion
Show and art workshops are also among the activities. Festival of Arts Director Sharbie Higuchi says the organizers have a “commitment to excellence and innovation” that results in a “one-of-a-kind experience that captivates audiences of all ages” and makes “each year’s event more spectacular than the last.”
The ’24 Pageant theme, “A La Mode: The Art of Fashion,” revolved around history’s grandest spectacles and fashion trends.
Alice Cooper, Rick Springfield and Richard
Cats, Brett
Ali Campbell’s UB40, Trevor Noah and others. The brilliant Art of Music Experience exhibit contains large hand-painted album covers (think Tower
Records), neon music signs, a record store and cocktail lounge. Elsewhere, The Hangar hosts tribute bands; the Action Sports Arena presents demolition derbies and monster trucks.
— George A. Paul
3. Orange International Street Fair
OLD TOWNE ORANGE; ORANGESTREETFAIR.ORG
Orange International Street Fair provides an international culinary excursion for local residents without ever having to cross the county line. Taking place each Labor Day weekend, the event has been going on for more than 50 years and routinely draws close to a half-million visitors. Streets around the Orange Circle are sectioned off, with spaces representing different countries with their respective foods offered via a number of vendors. The list of global locales typically features America, Mexico, England, Switzerland, Ireland,
Lebanon, Australia, France, Italy, Greece, Germany and Brazil (Polynesia and Asia also are usually part of the mix). Several stages host live music. The children’s street has games, crafts, activities and a stage with family friendly performances.
The fair raises money for local schools and nonprofits whose staffers run the food and drink booths. Handmade arts and crafts and local businesses are also included. Past attendee Jennifer H. of Fountain Valley and others raved on Yelp about the Greek street’s loukoumades, a doughnut ball coated with honey and cinnamon.
featuring
Marx, Stray
Young,
LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST FARMERS MARKET
Barrels of fruit are displayed at Mariners Church Farmers Market in Irvine.
Abbondanza, or plenty, seems to accurately describe the Irvine Farmers Market. And this market, spread across several parking areas adjacent to Mariners Church, rises to the top of the heap among the 37 farmers markets in O.C., not to mention more than 10 staged on Saturdays.
Irvine Farmers Market — not to be confused with its in-town neighbors in Great Park on Sundays, Irvine Regional Park on Tuesdays, or Kaiser Permanente on Wednesdays — opens early for the throngs that flock to the site, rain or shine.
With more than 100 vendors, including growers, artisans and other vendors, Irvine remains the largest farmers market in Orange County.
Growers come in from areas such as Fresno in the Central Valley to more local Orange County farms, meaning buyers are sure to find wide and varied selections of fruits and vegetables. Whether it is Asian produce such as Thai basil and bok choi, colorful and fiery chiles or avocado for Latin recipes, or in-season fruits of all shapes and sizes, Irvine’s got you covered.
Trish Harrison, the longtime manager of the market, said of Irvine Farmers Market, “nothing even compares.”
There are also plenty of culturally diverse cooked and prepared foods such as sushi, humus spreads, Hawaiian spam musubi, artisan baked goods and vegan meals.
Abundant, you bet.
— Greg Mellen
2. Orange Home Grown Farmers & Artisans Market
9 A.M.-1 P.M. SATURDAYS; 303 W. PALM AVE., ORANGE; ORANGEHOMEGROWN.ORG
As a farmers and artisans market, Orange Home Grown more than holds its own. Opened in 2011, the certified market is a hub for foodies and community alike. But it has become so much more. Among other goals and objectives, market organizers have become educators, promoting youth food literacy and also raising public awareness about locally grown food and the importance of supporting sustainable agriculture.
Oh, yeah ... there’s the market. Sourcing small, independent and family farms, all with Certified Producers Certificates from throughout the state, the market provides a full spectrum of fruits and vegetables.
Food Artisans sell oils, breads, cheeses and dips, crafted from traditional methods and recipes. The Artists’ Alley stresses local arts and crafts.
Add to all of that yoga classes, live music, dog sitting, children’s activities, classes and demonstrations and you have much more than a market. You have a happening.
3. Downtown Fullerton Farmers Market
4:30-8:30 P.M. THURSDAYS, APRIL THROUGH AUGUST; DOWNTOWN PLAZA, 125 E. WILSHIRE AVE.; CITYOFFULLERTON.COM
A seasonal market open April through late August, the Downtown Fullerton Farmers Market is a vibrant part of the lively downtown summer scene in Fullerton.
“I like to say we’re very family oriented,” said Christian Hernandez, manager of Parks and Recreation, which oversees the market and summer programming at the park. “I like to say parks and recreation is not like private business, the focus is on being family friendly.”
The market features approved and certified farmers from throughout the state. Artists and crafters sell wearable crafts, jewelry, fine art and seasonal items. Nonprofit organizations are also on hand conducting fundraising and membership opportunities.
Also, this is one of a few farmers markets you will find with a beer garden. Capping each of the markets is a city-sponsored concert from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST GOLF COURSE
1. Black Gold Golf Club
ONE BLACK GOLD DRIVE, YORBA LINDA; 714-961-0060; BLACKGOLDGOLF.COM
In a field filled with upscale private courses, Black Gold is a municipal course with a difference that has it consistently at the top of the list of Orange County tracks.
General Manager Rich Cessna says the course has a simple philosophy: “Exceed every guest’s expectation. Visiting Black Gold is our guests’ Disneyland. Therefore, we must do our very best to make their visit a memorable one.”
That said, there is nothing about this course that is Mickey Mouse.
Although the length is moderate at 6,756 yards, Cessna said, “It’s a true shotmaker’s paradise. There is a premium placed on leaving the driver in the bag for certain holes, and placing the ball in the correct position for your second shot.”
It closes with a lake and the course’s signature waterfall off the 18th hole.
The 23-year-old course was designed by Arthur Hills, a noted golf architect with more than 200 courses to his credit, including Tournament Players
Club and LPGA International Legends course in Florida.
According to Cessna, after back-to-back rainy winters and a sinkhole, over the summer the
2. Costa Mesa Country Club
1701 GOLF COURSE DRIVE, COSTA MESA; 714-540-7500; COSTAMESACOUNTRYCLUB.COM
With 36 holes split between two courses, the Costa Mesa Country Club offers a diversity of experiences and challenges that keeps golfers returning to the destination. It also has consistently rated as one of the top values for Orange County golfers.
Los Lagos is a par 72, 6,600 yards, allowing players to break out drivers from time on its par-5s, but also challenge shot-making with lakes coming into play on four holes. There are also rolling fairways and large greens.
Mesa Linda is a lure to shotmakers, with 5,700 yards of target golf and par at 70. That said, course officials tout the first hole as one of the toughest in Orange County. At 440 yards, golfers can stretch out their drives but then proceed to a small undulating green. Throughout, doglegs and small greens challenge accuracy.
Costa Mesa Country Club is also a popular wedding and banquet venue.
course underwent a facelift, including tee boxes and bunkers.
It’s not just about golf.
The course is a popular destination for weddings and
other events.
“Derrick’s Grille is not just an amenity for the golfers, it’s an O.C. foodie destination,” Cessna said.
Arroyo Trabuco consistently ranks among golfers’ favorite courses in Orange County for its beauty and sense of sanctuary. Not to mention a track that puts golfers through their paces.
Designed by Casey O’Callaghan and PGA Tour Pro Tom Lehman, the course is tucked into the bucolic 2,400-acre Reserve at Rancho Mission. Flexibly designed, the layout can play anywhere from about 5,000 yards to a full-on par 72, 7,000 yards, depending on tee placement.
The namesake Trabuco
Creek devilishly pokes its way into play on seven holes, three other holes sport water features and bunkers were completely renovated throughout.
According to PGA Club Manager Geoff Cram, however, it’s all about the people.
“We put in a great deal of effort to find people that have a genuine desire to make our guests’ experience outstanding,” he said. “You can train job skills, but the character traits are just in people.”
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Dancers from the American Ballet Theater rehearse at the Segerstrom Center For the Arts in Costa Mesa.
1. Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 TOWN CENTER DRIVE, COSTA MESA; 714-556-2787; SCFTA.ORG
You don’t have to look far to satisfy that Broadway fix or find a show the kids can enjoy. Segerstrom Center for the Arts — an Orange County fixture for nearly 40 years — consistently books a varied mix of entertainment across its multiple venues. “We are always raising the bar, season after season, to bring the most talented artists and performances,” states Lisa Middleton, vice president of marketing and communications at Segerstrom. “Our commitment to family programming helps start a love of theater early on” and the events “cater to a wide audience, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy,” she continues.
Segerstrom’s 2024-25 season has six O.C. premieres, such as the musicals “Back to the Future,” “Romeo & Juliet” and Neil Diamond’s “A Beautiful Noise.” Other theatrical presentations include “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Hadestown,” “Shrek: the Musical,” “Journey to Oz,” “Annie,” “Hamilton” and “Mamma Mia!” Under the dance series banner is American Ballet Theatre’s North American debut of “The Winter’s Tale” and Miami City Ballet’s “Swan Lake,” while “The Musicians of Bremen” is part of the family series. Talks with literary figures (Tony Kushner, Tracy K. Smith), and comedian Brian Regan are also scheduled. Middleton notes the availability of 3D seat viewing and easy digital ticket sharing for patrons, plus accommodations for people with special needs (audio description, ASL-interpreted performances, relaxed and sensory-friendly shows, mobile subtitles, Braille house programs).
Since beginning more than a century ago, Laguna Playhouse has featured such top-name film and TV actors as Harrison Ford, Bette Davis, Ed Asner, Hal Linden, Melanie Griffith and Wendie Malick on its stage. The nonprofit theater presents classic plays, dramas, musicals and more. Workshops, acting classes and a children’s summer theater camp are also offered to the community.
Laguna Playhouse Interim Marketing Director Kate Brandt cites the 400-seat theater, where “every seat is a great one and you’re never very far from the stage,” as a key benefit to attending Laguna shows.
Since David Ellenstein became artistic director, audiences are responding favorably to “the variety and the quality of the shows.” For example, “Holmes & Watson” was a big hit and Brandt says subscriptions for next year are already outpacing the past three seasons. “We’re hearing a lot of excitement” about it.
The upcoming schedule includes “A View from the Bridge,” “Eleanor,” “The Remarkable Mister Holmes,” “Fences” and “Peril in the Alps.”
3. Chance Theater
BETTE AITKEN THEATER ARTS CENTER, 5522 E. LA PALMA AVE., ANAHEIM; 888-455-4212; CHANCETHEATER.COM
Launched in 1999, the Chance Theater is Anaheim’s resident theater company. Expanded into the Aitken Theater Arts Center a decade ago, the ensemble-driven company has won eight Ovation Awards. According to its website, the overall goal is to collaborate with gifted artists on enthusiastic and provocative plays and musicals to tell bold, distinctive and innovative stories.
Shinshin Tsai, casting director/marketing manager at The Chance, says the staff is dedicated to “showcasing incredible local artists and premiering original works in Orange County. We always strive to bring a fresh perspective to classic plays and musicals. Our two intimate stages bring you up close with the characters, creating a truly immersive experience.”
Recent productions included “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” “Tiny Beautiful Things,” “Alma” and “Fancy Nancy: The Musical” (under the family series; a Christmas sequel is planned). The drama “Gloria” and Jane Austen’s “Emma” are on the upcoming schedule.
Located at the Bella Terra outdoor mall, Cinemark Century Huntington Beach +HD offers the latest blockbusters, family films and more. Special limited screenings include live boxing championships, anime films, and many Fathom Events presentations (operas, classic movie re-releases, concerts).
Orange County customers will find an XD auditorium, RealD 3D projections, some D-BOX motion seats, recliners, an onsite bar, Starbucks, and a private party room (advance reservations for children’s birthday celebrations/screenings have a concessions discount option). Auditoriums are also available to rent for private film screenings, meetings, school field trips, and gaming events.
Mobile food and drink ordering can be done before arrival or directly from the guest’s seat. Extra-large popcorn tubs and large fountain drinks come with free refills. “The theater has the top-of-the-line amenities that moviegoers are looking
for,” says Julia McCartha of Cinemark public relations. “These (conveniences) ensure local moviegoers have a memorable, comprehensive entertainment experience each time they come to watch a thrilling film on the big screens.”
500 SPECTRUM CENTER DRIVE, IRVINE; 844-462-7342; REGMOVIES.COM
With multiple eateries nearby, Regal Cinemas at Irvine Spectrum Center is an optimal spot for the traditional dinner and a movie date night. It offers premium film experiences (4DX 3D, IMAX, RPX, Screen X), elevated food and drink offerings and is among the more successful locations for the Cineworld Group chain. The latter is likely why Irvine had the distinction last year of being among only a couple dozen theaters worldwide to screen “Oppenheimer” in
IMAX 70mm.
Crown Club members can access a multitude of perks. Tickets for Mystery Movie Mondays, where a new release is shown before opening to the public, but not revealed until the lights go down, are $5.
Moviegoers can preorder tickets for such fall/winter Fathom Events Big Screen Classics presentations as the “Mean Girls” 20th anniversary, “The Fifth Element” and the “White Christmas” 70th anniversary.
earn points for every movie ticket and food item purchased, which can later be used for free items and discounts. Movie Club memberships provide additional benefits. McCartha also notes that the Holiday Movie Clubhouse program, introduced last year, allows
patrons to “catch some of their favorite holiday films back on the big screen at low prices.”
Marking its 40th anniversary this year, Cinemark operates more than 300 theaters in America with 4,303 screens across 42 states. — George A. Paul
3. Metropolitan MetroLux
OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE, 101 W. AVENIDA VISTA HERMOSA, SAN CLEMENTE; 949-226-8034; METROTHEATRES.COM
Los Angeles-based Metropolitan Theatres is a family owned company that has been around since 1923. The flagship San Clemente location opened in 2022. It contains a 60-foot wall-to-wall IMAX screen, some luxury recliners and rockers, D-BOX motion seats, and in-seat dining with beer and wine. A private patio is available, in addition to the usual auditoriums, for event rentals. Local schools can also plan visits to screen educational
IMAX documentaries. The recently launched, full-service Scripted Bar & Kitchen “will further differentiate MetroLux from the rest.
“There’s a lot to love at this theater, but the IMAX auditorium, with its crystal sharp” 4K laser projection and “precision sound gets the top honors,” notes General Manager Brandon Levy, who adds that the gourmet kitchen’s head chef personalized the menu “specifically for the San Clemente area.”
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAHER
» BEST MUSEUM
1. Bowers Museum
2002 N. MAIN ST., SANTA ANA; 714-567-3601; BOWERS.ORG
The granddaddy of Orange County museums, having opened in 1936, Bowers has more than 90,000 world artifacts and artworks. California art is also spotlighted. Bowers Museum President/CEO Sean O’Harrow says one of the museum’s original objectives was “to preserve and present the cultural history of Orange County, and people will find interesting stories about this region. The museum has what is considered by many to be the finest collection of Pacific island artwork in the country.” It is “one of the very few international, truly multicultural and diverse public cultural institutions in the region,” he adds.
Regular museum activities include senior art workshops (painted clay pots, copper relief and boho paper beads were recent examples), free monthly outdoor family festivals (live music, dance, face painting, art making), lectures (archeology and 1930s music were some summer topics) and more.
Visitors can dine at the Tangata Restaurant with sandwiches, salads, beer and wine on the menu.
The “Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form” exhibition, which just closed after a six-month run, featured various related
2. Orange County Museum of Art
3333 AVENUE OF THE ARTS, COSTA MESA; 714-780-2130; OCMA.ART
Located in a magnificent facility on the Segerstrom Center for the Arts campus since 2022, Orange County Museum of Art strives to present innovative and groundbreaking exhibitions and programs. The museum’s collection includes more than 4,500 objects with an emphasis on 20th- and 21st-century art. OCMA’s programs encompass new commissions, performances, workshops, film series, immersive activities, and community happenings.
Among the current exhibitions are “Yves Saint Laurent: Line and
Expression,” which explores the famed designer’s sketches and clothing (through Oct. 27); a balloon work by English multimedia artist Martin Creed (through Feb. 16), and interconnected sculptures by Sacramento artist Liz Larner.
Museum tours (school, private — for a fee) are available. Multiple spaces and the rooftop terrace can be used for special events. After perusing artworks, head to the Café and Bar, featuring California cuisine prepared with locally sourced organic ingredients and a full bar with wine and craft cocktails.
special events. Upcoming exhibitions include a collaboration with the British Library on Fantasy books, stories and artwork and a survey by famous titanium jewelry designer Aka Chen. O’Harrow emphasizes that the museum provides “an
easy way to see (works from) other cultures and countries without leaving Orange County.” General admission tickets to the Bowers are free to Santa Ana residents on Sundays.
— George A. Paul
3. Hilbert Museum of California Art
CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY, 167 N. ATCHISON ST., ORANGE; 714-516-5880; HILBERTMUSEUM.ORG
Opened in 2016, the Hilbert Museum of California Art houses what is billed as the world’s largest collection of narrative art from the Golden State. It traces local history from the late 19th century to the present via Hollywood studio artists, animators, and others. All told, there are 5,000 pieces featuring oils, watercolors, and drawings of urban and industrial scenes, coastal views, and landscapes of everyday California life.
Visitors can view one of the largest private collections of Disney and animation art. Celebrated works and illustrations by Norman
Rockwell, Millard Sheets, Emil Kosa Jr., Mary Blair, Phil Dike, Milford Zornes and Rex Brandt have been on display. Recently, “Art of the Airwaves: Radios from the Hilbert Collection” examined old-time portable radios from the 1930s-1950s.
Earlier this year, the Hilbert was expanded to triple its previous size, with 26 galleries, a research library, café, and outdoor courtyard with native gardens. A floating, open-air structure presents “Pleasures Along the Beach,” a 41-foot by 16-foot signature 1969 glasstile mosaic by Sheets.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST MUSIC VENUE
1. Soka Performing Arts Center
1 UNIVERSITY DRIVE, ALISO VIEJO; 949-480-4278; PERFORMINGARTS.SOKA.EDU
Upon opening in 2011, Soka Performing Arts Center brought added cachet to the realm of Orange County entertainment. The venue’s three-level, 1,000-seat vineyard-style concert hall boasts a sonic design by Yasuhisa Toyota, renowned for past work on Walt Disney Concert Hall.
On Sept. 29, the legendary Dionne Warwick kicks off the new season, which also includes other top talents including Emanuel Ax, Shawn Colvin, KT Tunstall, Kurt Elling, Blind Boys of Alabama, Shemekia Copeland and Terence Blanchard.
Joe Nicholls, Soka Performing Arts Center marketing assistant, says, “We feature world-class artists who often define their genres, spanning piano, jazz, symphonies, folk, world music and more.”
Last season’s slate had multiple Grammy-winning/nominated musicians. “This caliber of talent
keeps our audiences returning and helps us engage with new attendees. Our supporters are the lifeblood of our organization.” Community engagement efforts include free performances for students and a Christmas food drive.
Soka, a Japanese term meaning “create value,” also describes other aspects of the venue. “For a fraction of the price and without the hassle of L.A. traffic, we offer O.C. residents and beyond a premier cultural experience right at their doorstep,” says Nicholls. Fullerton resident Ida Miller saw Roger McGuinn last spring. She was impressed with the venue’s great sightlines and rows which provided “a clear view of the stage” as well as the “beautiful wood decor … acoustically, it sounded perfect.” An added bonus for her? Free parking. “Such a plus these days for me.”
— George A. Paul
2. The Observatory
3503 S. HARBOR BLVD., SANTA ANA; 714-957-0600; OBSERVATORYOC.COM
Versatility is synonymous with The Observatory, which emerged from the longtime Galaxy Theatre in 2011. Top altrock, metal, rap, electronic music artists and more frequent the large main room. Both rising stars and veteran acts play the more intimate Constellation Room.
General Manager Morgan Jefferson says The Observatory is important to locals “due to its illustrious history and the immense range of culture and diversity displayed” via each night’s entertainment. “Fans and artists alike relish the nostalgic feel of the venue, and they form an unmatched personal connection” with it.
This year has seen Weezer, Bruce Dickinson, Gary Numan, Sebastian Bach, The Hives, Molly Tuttle, Gogol Bordello and Dustin Kensrue grace the indoor stages and Sad Summer Festival (Mayday Parade, The Maine) on the outdoor grounds.
Upcoming shows: Nation of Language, Oct. 5; MisterWives, Oct. 15; Underoath, Oct. 2223; Cold War Kids, Nov. 16.
3. Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 TOWN CENTER DRIVE, COSTA MESA; 714-556-2787; SCFTA.ORG
For 2024’s Best of OC, Segerstrom Center for the Arts placed in two categories, a signal that the stylish arts campus — with indoor (Segerstrom Hall, Samueli Theater, Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall) and outdoor spaces (Julianne and George Argyros Plaza) — continues to have an influential role among local spots to experience live music.
Each season schedule is regularly populated with performances by the Pacific Chorale, chamber music ensembles, classical pianists and more. Various Southern California acts were spotlighted during the free Summer Sounds concert series at The Plaza.
Segerstrom Vice President of Marketing and Communications Lisa Middleton says, “We’ve had the opportunity to showcase many artists for their first performances at The Center,” adding “the venue’s stateof-the-art facilities, gorgeous campus and a world-class lineup of shows and events create a unique and unforgettable experience for patrons.”
Samara Joy, Michael Feinstein, Take 6, Kerry Butler, Rent and Cheyenne Jackson are among the 2024-25 season concert offerings.
Pickleball isn’t just in the process of taking over recreational and not-sorecreational racquet sports — it has taken over. This year, The Register launches its inaugural “Best of” category for pickleball.
When the Tustin Pickleball Association, founded in 2010, suggested using a parcel of Tustin Unified School District land for a pickleball-only facility, it was an audacious plan.
Today, the Pete Burns courts, named for former director of maintenance for Tustin Unified, who brokered the deal, is home to 10 courts designed solely for pickleball. It’s a hit.
According to Terry Wong, president of Tustin Pickleball, it is not uncommon for players to be lined up and registered at 6:45 a.m. to get first dibs to play on the popular courts.
Drop-in play begins at 7 a.m. and continues until 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday on a first-come, first-served basis. Although the courts can become crowded on holidays
and weekends, it is rare to wait more than two games for a spot to open, according to Wong.
Tustin Pickleball, a nonprofit, operates the facility. Anyone can join and
There was a time when pickleball was a spaceefficient alternative for those too creaky for tennis. Nowadays, not so much.
“(Pickleball) used to be a sport for seniors; that’s so not true anymore,” said David Callihan, senior pickleball pro at Agape Tennis Academy, who has seen kids take over. “When I started, there were zero kids on the pickleball side.”
Agape Tennis Academy leases Fountain Valley’s facility and started as a
tennis-dominant operator. However, today there are 16 courts dedicated for pickleball and 1,000 pickleball members.
Agape allows free registration, and courts are rented by the hour based on a sliding scale tied to the popularity of the day and time.
There is also instruction available, and the center has youth camps and events. Some equipment can be loaned for beginners and there is a small pro shop.
membership is $120 annually, with unlimited play.
“It’s very social,” Wong said. “You can come and mix in.” Players interested in learning the game or from out of town can pay a $10 dropin fee. There is also loaner equipment and instruction available.
“We provide a tremendous value being a nonprofit,” Wong said.
— Greg Mellen
3. Tustin Hills Racquet Club, Santa Ana
11782 SIMON RANCH ROAD, SANTA ANA; 714-544-6950; WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/TUSTINHILLSRACQUETCLUB
When Chico Bonner took over as director of pickleball at Tustin Hills Racquet Club a little less than three years ago, it was holding its grand opening for 12 pickleball surfaces that replaced three existing tennis courts. At the time, there were about 25 pickleball aficionados. Today, that number has swelled to about 400.
Like many in the booming pickleball space, Bonner came over from tennis.
Set on gorgeous lush grounds in Lemon Heights, the private club features both tennis and pickleball. There is a swimming pool, large well-appointed clubhouse and event space that hosts many family events.
Members pay a registration fee to join the club and monthly dues as singles, doubles or families, and can sign up for one or both racquet sports. Members can either reserve court time or drop in for open play.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CASINO
1. Yaamava’ Resort
& Casino
WILL LESTER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
777 SAN MANUEL BLVD, HIGHLAND; 909-864-5050; YAAMAVA.COM
Since rebranding itself as a resort in the last couple of years, this Highland casino has been aggressively advertising on freeways and in sports arenas throughout Southern California, vying for casino patrons around the region and beyond. Formerly known as San Manuel Casino, the property embarked on a resort-style expansion similar to its neighboring tribal casinos. In September 2021, San Manuel Casino became Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and began revamping its elevated dining concepts Serrano Vista Café and The Pines Steakhouse.
Kenji Hall, general manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, said that he and his team have been working hard to win over readers in Orange County and is proud that the property was voted as their top choice.
“This is an award that we really wanted to be a part of and win because we feel like Orange County is part of our home, too,” Hall said. “We’ve focused on trying to expand our reach over the past several years and we want to make sure we continue to create valuable experiences that would be something that is beyond what they could get
at other locations. If we can create something like that this close to home where the readers don’t have to hop on a flight to get here and don’t have to deal with other issues like resort fees, then that means we have something that is better than anywhere else.”
Some of the early upgrades included its gaming floor, which features more than 6,700 slot machines and more than 150 table games. By the end of 2021, the casino had transitioned into a resort by ushering in its 17-floor hotel tower with 432 rooms — which come in different sizes, measuring from 360 square feet to more than 1,300 square feet. Each room offers a 65-inch flat screen TV, floor-toceiling windows, a coffee maker and 24-hour room service. Other resort amenities include a spa, fitness center and a pool complex featuring two pools, two 4-foot-deep Jacuzzis, a walk-up restaurant, a bar and a giant LED television. Television host and automobile enthusiast Jay Leno also has been a central part of the property’s promotions, giving away several Rolls Royce Ghost models to select winners.
This Temecula resort has two hotel towers with 1,100 rooms, an RV campground and a gaming floor measuring close to 200,000 square feet, making it one of the largest in California. The gaming floor has more than 5,000 slot machines and 150-plus table games.
The casino’s hotel rooms come in various sizes, measuring from 400 square feet to more than 800 square feet. Each room offers flat-screen LCD televisions, floor-to-ceiling windows and a safe and 24-hour room service. Pechanga also has two entertainment venues. The outdoor Pechanga Summit can accommodate up to 3,000 guests, and the indoor Pechanga Theater can seat 1,200.
Pechanga’s resort experience offers amenities such as a spa and a 4.5-acre pool complex called The Cove, which added a new lounge last year. This area has four pools, two whirlpools, two twisty water slides, a family pool, 27 cabanas, a walk-up restaurant, and a swim-up bar. Some of Pechanga’s eateries include the 1882 Cantina, a Mexican food spot, Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar and the fine-dining restaurant Great Oak Steakhouse, which was remodeled last summer.
3. Harrah’s Resort Southern California
777 HARRAH’S RINCON WAY, VALLEY CENTER; 760-751-3100; HARRAHSSOCAL.COM
Harrah’s in Valley Center has a 1,087room hotel, more than 1,000 slots and 50 table games and an entertainment venue. Harrah’s has embraced the resort experience, offering its guests a variety of spa treatments and swimming options, including a lazy river, a pool exclusively for guests 21 and older, and a swim-up bar. The area for the swim-up bar houses hot tubs, a waterfall hot tub, eight cabanas, seven loungers and a fire pit.
Restaurants at Harrah’s include the fine-dining spot Fiore and full-service restaurants such as ’ritas Cantina, The Café and Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen restaurant (the only one in California).
One of the factors that sets this property apart is its unique celebrity marketing strategy. The casino resort “elects” celebrity mayors such as Rob Riggle, David Hasselhoff, Jane Lynch and, most recently, Martin Short to carry out the casino’s promotional campaigns.
•Yaamava’TheaterCalifornia’s#1 Entertainment Destination
» BEST SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WINERY
1. Rancho Capistrano Winery
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, SAN CLEMENTE, LADERA RANCH; RANCHOCAPWINERY.COM
Local winemakers and restaurateurs Kyle and Sylvia Fransen have brought the best of Northern and Central California wine country to Orange County.
As Kyle tells it, “When my wife Sylvia and I decided to create a local winery, we knew we wanted to locate it in what is believed to be the birthplace of California wine, San Juan Capistrano. Mission settlers planted and harvested wine grapes just a few hundred yards from our San Juan location. We were also intent on branding it for the area, marrying the region’s rich ranching history with winemaking and giving it a name that reflects the region.”
The result is Rancho Capistrano, which in its 12 years has blossomed into three locations in South County with restaurants accompanying the wine production.
Producing about 25,000 cases annually of about 40 different wines and 25 available at any given time from the finest areas in the West, Rancho Capistrano
appeals to the most discriminating palates.
“Our exceptional wine club offers locals the chance to enjoy premier wine club benefits without the need to travel hundreds of miles,”
2. Europa Village Wineries & Resort
41150 VIA EUROPA, TEMECULA; EUROPAVILLAGE.COM
While many wineries in the Southland are inspired by our northern neighbors, Dan Stephenson fell in love with regions in Spain, Italy and France in the 1970s. He and a friend bought 300 acres in the then little-known Temecula Valley Wine Country and the dream-come-true result is Europa Village.
“Unlike anything today in Temecula Valley wine country, Europa Village is a uniquely themed multi-winery resort,” said Jason Maciel, director of marketing and PR. “These exciting European-style venues include award-winning
wines, boutiques, tasting rooms, unique Europeaninspired cuisine and resortstyle accommodations all in one destination.”
“There are 18.31 acres of vines on the estate with plantings of 18 different grape varietals,” said Blake Miller, head winemaker, as well as grapes sourced from “ultra-premium vineyards,” producing about 30,000 cases annually.
Although open year-round, the prime season is between June and October, “when the vines are in full bloom,” according to Maciel.
Kyle Franson said. “Cult favorites,” he said, are the Bella chardonnay; Maverick, a zinfandel blend; and “a special pinot noir named after my wife, Sylvia, each year.”
3. Wiens Cellars
The restaurants give customers a chance to experience fine dining from Chef Adrian’s award-winning kitchen with customized wine pairings.
— Greg Mellen
35055 VIA DEL PONTE, TEMECULA; WIENSCELLARS.COM
A family owned winery, Wiens Cellars has been a part of the Temecula terroir for 28 years.
Since hand planting its first 14-acre vineyard in 1996, Wiens has grown to more than 70 acres of handcultivated vines.
Wiens Cellars was acquired by entrepreneurs Mark and David Steinhafel in 2022, but says “the legacy of Wiens lives on, bigger and better than ever before.”
Joseph Wiens, a secondgeneration winemaker from the founding family,
remains as the director of winemaking.
According to the Wiens website, the winery is “well known for our bold, proprietary reds; crisp, refreshing whites; sparkling wines, and a variety of blends,” while experimenting with more than 30 grape varieties.
Wiens Cellar cellars plays host to tours, as well as introductory, standard and select wine tastings in its rustic yet elegant tasting room and patio. Wiens Cellars is also available for weddings and events.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
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Mechanic Carlos Zavala works on a car at ExperTec Automotive
1. ExperTec Automotive
ANAHEIM, COSTA MESA, HUNTINGTON BEACH; EXPERTECAUTOMOTIVE.COM
Seven years running as one of Best of OC’s top winners shows ExperTec Automotive has a growing list of fans.
With its three family-owned locations, it has built a reputation for quality and great customer service for its general repair services on pretty much any make or model of car, on anything under the hood and on everything right down to the tires. Its service also includes fleet vehicles, classic cars and hot rods, and even hybrids.
The shop also provides financing options for people who need repairs now, but might not have the money to get them done otherwise.
And it’s not just quality service that customers seem to like; it’s also the way they’re treated by ExperTec staff that makes them sing their praises.
“Trustworthy,” “honest” and “capable” are the words a lot of Yelp reviews used. But also “very pleasant,” “very friendly” and “very good at explaining” commented others.
One customer said he was “thoroughly impressed by their professional and friendly service.”
Auto care site RepairPal.com gave ExperTec 4.3 out of 5 stars with reviews like “This is the best repair shop we have ever worked with” and “Helpful courteous attitude. Reliable and best of all HONEST.”
– Shawn Price
2. Britton’s Automotive
17242 GOTHARD ST., SUITE C, HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714-841-5701; BRITTONSAUTOMOTIVE.COM
Three decades is a long time to fix cars. It’s a lot of spark plugs, belts, hoses, rings, valves and seals. It’s a lot of dirt under the fingernails. And it’s just the way owner Bruce Britton likes it.
Britton has been fixing cars since he was a teen, and now as owner of Britton Automotive, he also likes helping people understand their cars, from Hondas to Hummers.
It’s a complete service shop, certified and licensed to make any engine repair from transmissions to tuneups. Britton’s Automotive also repairs brakes, tires, suspension and axles.
For owners holding on to their older cars, Britton’s offers a 90,000mile maintenance and timing belt replacement. For those considering buying a used car, Britton’s offers a bumper-to-bumper inspection service to help a potential new buyer evaluate the car. A VIP rewards program is also available.
3. Accu Auto Service
23253 MADERO, A-104, MISSION VIEJO; 949-859-9637
When it comes to a lowprofile and no-nonsense but high-customer-satisfaction auto repair business, Mission Viejo’s Accu Auto Service is just about the very definition.
The shop offers general service on most makes and models, including minor to major repairs and standard maintenance like oil changes.
Customers praise Accu Auto’s service, affordability and lack of upselling.
“Lovely experience, I will definitely be back. He and his guys deserve all the business they can get,” said Kelly K. on Yelp. Gregory M. added, “He will tell us when we need to have something done and when we don’t need to have something done — even if this means we pay him less for our service.”
Family-owned and -operated DeLillo Chevrolet has been serving the Huntington Beach area since 1962. The dealership offers both new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles. The staff is available to serve all customers — whether they know exactly what they’re looking for or are still undecided. DeLillo also has fleet and commercial vehicles available through the fleet department. The dealership can deliver vehicles directly to an office or home.
The dealership also offers a full-service department with trained technicians helping customers receive service for both routine maintenance and repairs. The parts department has a variety of options, whether customers need a replacement GM part or want some new accessories. The dealership also encourages customers to take Chevrolet models out for test drives.
A five-star reviewer on Yelp said, “I recently helped my uncle purchase a Silverado from DeLillo. Their entire team really stepped up to help during the purchase and he’s really happy. We look forward to servicing with them in the near future as the vehicle gets closer to its first oil change. Thanks DeLillo!”
Another says, “The staff at DeLillo Chevrolet are truly invested in making your car purchasing experience run smoothly. Mike was our sales representative and his attention to detail is amazing. He is so good at explaining things and looking for rebates that pertain to his clients.”
— Jessica Peralta
2. Toyota of Orange
1400 N. TUSTIN ST., ORANGE; 714-450-7427; TOYOTAOFORANGE.COM
A winner of Toyota’s President’s Cabinet Award, President’s Award and Board of Governors Award, Toyota of Orange is no stranger to recognition for its customer service. This dealership has one of the largest Toyota inventories in the country. And, in addition to its large selection of new cars, the dealership also offers a variety of pre-owned vehicles.
Every new Toyota purchased or leased there comes with a maintenance plan for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. The no-cost maintenance plan includes engine oil and filter change, tire rotation, multipoint inspection and fluid level inspection and adjustment. Twenty-four-hour roadside assistance is also included for two years and unlimited miles. The service center’s technicians are factory-trained and have years of experience working with Toyota models — some have been there since the service center opened.
3. Subaru Orange Coast
1350 AUTO MALL DRIVE, SANTA ANA; 657-425-0001; SUBARUORANGECOAST.COM
Subaru Orange Coast prides itself on providing customers with a comprehensive dealership experience that goes beyond expectations. General Manager Jim Parsons said that, as a Subaru retailer, the business wants to be more than a car dealership.
“We are an integral part of our local community, and we support multiple charities throughout the year, including CHOC Hospital, OC Animal Care, OC Rescue Mission, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Pio Pico Elementary School ... We like to treat our clients as family and build long-term, lasting relationships to take care of all their automotive needs,” Parsons said.
“We consistently earn Subaru’s highest dealership honor each year: The Subaru Love Promise Customer and Community Commitment Award. This award recognizes the nation’s top dealers for their achievement in customer satisfaction and community involvement.”
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST EDUCATION: CAREER COLLEGE / NURSING SCHOOL
1. CNI College
1610 E. ST. ANDREW PLACE, SUITE 200, SANTA ANA; 800-455-4700; CNICOLLEGE.EDU
A very big but kind of subtle idea behind CNI College is that the nursing school looks more like a hospital than a school. Students there learn in a realistic environment.
The college has offered accredited vocational training in nursing and health services for three decades. Students can earn a Master of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or an RN-to-BSN Degree Completion Program, as well as complete programs in AOS Magnetic Resonance Imaging (or MRIs), AOS Surgical Technology and Vocational Nursing Diplomas.
In the early years of the college, it moved from Santa Ana to Costa Mesa to Orange.
In 2019, it settled into its 52,000-square-foot permanent
campus featuring classrooms with fully equipped medical, pharmacy, personal training and computer labs, along with a library, student union and other student support spaces.
And with the school’s high-fidelity mannequins that can simulate childbirth, students can safely practice the hands-on training needed in a realistic environment, then learn how to take their different skills to the next level before going into actual clinical settings.
Students at CNI are also eligible for FAFSA Federal Student Aid, Pell Grants, Cal Grants, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants, various Stafford loans, federal Parent Plus loans and private loans.
— Shawn Price
2. American Career College
1200 N. MAGNOLIA AVE., ANAHEIM; 714-763-9066; AMERICANCAREERCOLLEGE.EDU
Time is everything for modern students, and American Career College can provide students a timeline that works for them.
In nine months, a student can complete the medical assistant program. A student can earn an associate’s degree in surgical technology or respiratory therapy in 20 months, in vocational nursing in 13 months, and as a radiologic technology assistant in 25 months.
For more than four decades, American Career College has been providing health care education, with accelerated programs and flexible class schedules — including some weekend classes designed for realistic 2024 lifestyles.
American Career College provides training in more than a dozen health care programs, including an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Medical Assistant, Surgical Technology and Vocational Nursing, as well as Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant and newer programs that offer hands-on training in medical billing as well as respiratory therapy.
3. Stanbridge University
2041 BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE, IRVINE; 888-789-6208; STANBRIDGE.EDU
Orange County-based Stanbridge University grew quickly from its founding in 1996 to include Alhambra and Riverside locations, and a recently added slate of online programs.
More than 1,000 students are enrolled at the Irvine flagship campus in one of four accredited nursing programs, or the accredited physical therapy, occupational therapy or health care administration programs.
Stanbridge students can complete degrees in Associate of Occupational Science (LVN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science — RN to BSN, or Master of Science in Nursing; the school has averaged a 98% NCLEX-RN and 96% NCLEX-PN licensure pass rate the past five years.
State-of-the-art resources encompass cadaver labs to virtual reality, including the SynDaver Synthetic Cadaver Lab, an Anatomage Table anatomy visualization system allowing virtual human dissection, and an Advanced Laerdal Haptic IV Trainer for practicing intravenous techniques.
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST EDUCATION: CAREER COLLEGE / TRADE SCHOOL
1. CTM Welding, Anaheim
1345 NORTH DYNAMICS ST., ANAHEIM; 714-577-9353; CTMWELDING.COM
Welding takes more training than people might think, and that’s what CTM Welding is here for. With courses and workshops for the beginner right up to the experienced welder who finally has a chance to get professional instruction, CTM has it all.
Refresher courses are available for welders intent on taking the City of Los Angeles LADBS Certified Welder Performance Test, with another workshop designed to aid in passing the written portion of the test. Workshops are also available for employers seeking to help their staff polish their skills. All courses and workshops are led by experienced instructors. The owners are themselves retired steel stud framers & welders.
“CTM is a fairly small and intimate trade school that works with each student on an individual basis,” says Johnathan Juarez, son of educator and co-owner of the school John Juarez. “We primarily focus on training and certification to help our
CTM Welding owner Cory Miller demonstrates a skill.
students obtain a job in their primary field of interest.”
John says the one-onone training means about 100 students get certified each year, but “many of our
2. Brownson Technical School, Anaheim
1110 TECHNOLOGY CIRCLE, SUITE D, ANAHEIM; 714-774-9443; BROWNSON.EDU
Brownson Technical School grads have a high success rate for employment because they typically get the most cutting-edge training in HVAC/R trends. For more than 30 years, the school’s training programs prepped students in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration repair, maintenance and design. And because Brownson has built relationships in the industry, it’s become a go-to school for employers. Many of the former students eventually become business
owners themselves and frequently hire Brownson graduates.
According to Brownson’s website, 87% of its graduates found work in the HVAC industry within one year of graduation. Grads enter the work force with 1,040 hours of hands-on training on a wide range of real equipment in one of the biggest HVAC labs in Southern California. Training courses for beginners and advanced technicians are available in 10-month and 22-month plans.
students get hired by the various union building trades upon completion of our SMAW & FCAW classes and certification.”
The school also teaches
shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), flux cored arc and gas metal arc welding (FCAWGMAW), and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW).
UEI College offers accredited vocational programs in health care, business and the trades, including technician training by experts in the fields of automotive, HVAC, electrical and welding.
With campuses across the state and in Arizona, Georgia and Nevada, UEI has been in Orange County since 1993, and currently serves about 500 students.
“We’re very studentcentric, and we have all of our support services right on campus,” says UEI Director of Communications Joe Cockrell.
“We care about the students’ learning experience.”
A traditional four-year school alternative, UEI saw an uptick in enrollment after layoffs due to the pandemic, Cockrell says. In response, the campus offers evening classes, as well as a hybrid model that allows students to complete bookwork at home and attend hands-on lab classes on campus.
Additionally, UEI offers a program that allows students to earn their high school diploma while concurrently completing vocational training.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
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Mastro’sSteakhouse/ Mastro’sOceanClub
MemorialCareUrgentCare
MontageLagunaBeach OCFair
OrangeCoastCollege
OrangeCounty’sCreditUnion
Porto’sBakeryandCafe
RanchoCapistranoWinery
RanchoMissionViejo
ReataGlen
Rodrigo’sMexicanGrill
SeaPointeDesign&Remodel, Irvine
SegerstromCenterfortheArts
Sgt.Pepperoni’sPizza
SignatureEstate& InvestmentAdvisors
SokaPerformingArtsCenter
SpaGregorie’sNewportBeach
StarWars:Riseofthe Resistance,Disneyland
StereoBrewing
StrivetoLearn
SushionFire
TheHomeDepot
TMCWindows&Doors
TraderJoe’s
Trevor’sattheTracks
TrumarkHomes
TustinPickleball
VeteranAir
WineExchange
Yaamava’Resort&Casino
» BEST EDUCATION: COMMUNITY COLLEGE
1. Orange Coast College
2701 FAIRVIEW ROAD, COSTA MESA; 714-432-5772; ORANGECOASTCOLLEGE.EDU
Orange Coast College students are immersed in hands-on learning experiences. The college offers access to cutting-edge technology and resources, including a FrameCAD machine, a jet and flight simulator, a full mission bridge simulator and 3D printers. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration recently named OCC one of 32 Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education for 2024.
You can catch a show at the OCC Planetarium in the state-of-the-art immersion theater, or witness Earth’s rotation with OCC’s Foucault Pendulum — the only one of its kind in the county. The only student-run public aquarium in the country, the Dennis Kelly Aquarium, is partially run by marine science students who care for rainbow-hued sharks, leopard eels, seahorses and fish. The Coast Collective, a retail space on campus, offers a platform for students in the OCC
Fashion Program to show and sell their merchandise while also developing entrepreneurial skills.
OCC’s Captain’s Table offers a four-course gourmet dining experience at affordable
Saddleback College was founded in 1968 and is fully accredited, offering more than 270 associate degrees, certificates and occupational skills awards in 190 program areas taught by faculty known for their expertise, experience and commitment to student success.
According to its website, Saddleback College’s values include empowerment, excellence, inclusivity, integrity, openness, partnership, success and sustainability. The college works to empower students through challenging,
collaborative and engaging educational experiences.
Saddleback College is dedicated to excellence in academics, student support and service to the community. The college seeks to create a welcoming environment in which members of the community have equitable opportunities and feel nurtured and respected, while also promoting honesty, transparency and accountability, and to cultivate an environment open to diverse perspectives and a free exchange of ideas.
pricing. The Captain’s Table is a learning lab staffed by OCC’s culinary and hospitality students, open for lunch and dinner on select Thursdays during the academic school year.
3. Fullerton College
There are also some developments on the horizon with the upcoming Chemistry Building, which is set to open next year.
321 E. CHAPMAN AVE., FULLERTON; 714-992-7000; FULLCOLL.EDU
According to Pepe Barton, interim director of campus communications, Fullerton College offers comprehensive support programs, including two years of free tuition for first-time college students, an onsite food bank, a free technology lending program and a wide variety of cultural events and programs.
Fullerton College has been listed among the top 10 associate degree producers in annual rankings by Diverse Issues in Education. The college also ranks first in transfers to Cal State Fullerton.
As a long-standing Hispanic Serving Institution, Fullerton College has a new team dedicated to embedding this into the college identity. The Rising Scholars program is dedicated to empowering formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students.
“We are proud to highlight our new academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities, including a new crime scene investigation unit, the Emerging Technologies Lab, a cybersecurity program and the Ethnic Studies Teachers Certificate program,” Barton said.
— Jessica Peralta
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The OCC Planetarium was a popular spot during a solar eclipse on April 8.
» BEST EDUCATION: FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY
1. Cal State Fullerton
800 N. STATE COLLEGE BLVD., FULLERTON; 657-278-2011; FULLERTON.EDU
With the largest student body in the Cal State system — and a nearly 67 percent acceptance rate — Cal State Fullerton is not just popular, it’s also accessible. And that’s important to a wide variety of students.
According to Money magazine, the school recently ranked in the top 35 for “Best Colleges for Your Money,” and in the top 25 for overall quality. It also placed high in a multitude of categories — including for its various engineering programs, as well as its communications, nursing and economics programs — by U.S. News & World Report.
“I’m a first-generation DACA college student raised by two farmworkers who gave up everything for a better life in the U.S.,” recent civil engineering grad Sosa Cordova said. “I’ve reached heights I never thought I could achieve.”
Business school grad Krystin Huxtable said, “The wealth of opportunities at CSUF and everything I was involved in during my time here allowed me to explore all of my various
2. UC Irvine
IRVINE; 949-824-5011; UCI.EDU
UC Irvine is one of the nation’s best universities in many ways.
UCI School of Education is rated among the 10 best in the country. Plus, UCI has produced five Nobel Prize winners throughout its history. UCI is the only Orange County university to have an ecological preserve and a wetlands within its borders. It also boasts the largest library in the county. It’s the county’s only university with a health sciences campus with schools of medicine,
Graduates from Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and
May 22.
interests, grow both personally and professionally, and helped me figure out my career path.”
Provost and Executive Vice President Amir Dabirian says
nursing and pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences, and a program in public health.
“These schools and programs also lead numerous community-health projects throughout Orange County,” says Tom Vasich, senior director of communications & media relations.
This year’s graduating class also stood out. Vasich says 46% of UCI’s graduates are the first in their families to receive a college degree. UCI granted 680 doctoral degrees — the most in Orange County — and 1,815 master’s degrees.
Cal State Fullerton offers a high-quality education in a diverse community focused on student engagement and high-impact practices. He
says CSUF was recognized by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Employers for Diversity 2023.
— Shawn Price
3. Chapman University
ONE UNIVERSITY DRIVE, ORANGE; 714-997-6815; CHAPMAN.EDU
Original thinkers are a hot commodity at Chapman.
Whether it’s making a movie, creating a business model or writing code, the inclusive, empowering community fosters creative thinking and expressing all perspectives. The university also works to connect students to faculty and the community to keep them engaged in the larger world. Chapman is in the top 15% of American colleges and universities, and a top producer of Fulbright
Scholars. Chapman students have won awards that allow them to become more global citizens by participating in education programs around the world. It was also named one of two “most innovative” universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report.
“Chapman University isn’t just an institution of higher education, it’s a family,” says the university’s website. “When you step on campus you can feel that there’s just something special about this place: It feels like home.”
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Economics cheer during graduation
Strive to Learn owner Josefine Borrmann says, “Our tutors really get to know their students on an individual basis.”
1. Strive to Learn
653 NEWPORT BLVD., A109, COSTA MESA; 949-873-6807; STRIVETOLEARN.COM
Strive to Learn founder Josefine Borrmann understands students because she spent a long time being one. It was while she was tutoring in college, working her way toward a master’s degree in anthropology, that the idea for the company came to her.
She created a tutoring service that is able to help any student because the tutors are trained in how to understand different types of learners. That is the key to success for the student and the company — and perhaps why Strive to Learn has topped the reader’s poll for the third year in a row.
“I think that our ability to really empathize with students and understand who they are is at the core of what makes us different as
a company,” says Borrmann on her website.
And if the tutors understand the highs and lows and how a student might be struggling with a particular subject, they can be very encouraging and keep them pointed forward.
All tutoring is performed one-onone, mostly via Zoom, for grades K-12 as well as college academic tutoring and test prep for SAT, ACT and others. Borrmann herself is one of the staff who provide college counseling to high school students navigating college admissions to their dream schools. Assistance includes career interests and instruction in essay writing.
— Shawn Price
2. Kumon Math and Reading Center
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; KUMON.COM
In 1954, Toru Kumon’s young son, Takeshi, was beginning to struggle with math. Fortunately, Toru was a math teacher, and with some trial and error, he figured out a way to give his son math worksheets so that Takeshi could develop his skills.
Toru believed good educators should inspire “a mindset of self-learning” and let students build overall academic abilities by developing skills on their own. Takeshi soon became a math whiz, and his father began inviting local children to their home for tutoring.
Today, Kumon Math and Reading Centers use basically the same method for kids age 3 through high school in centers around the world. Students study for 30 minutes per subject per day in Kumon classrooms one or two times a week.
Though each center has physical classrooms, virtual classes — via smartphone, PC or tablet — are available at certain locations, allowing students more flexibility with their schedules.
3. Mathnasium
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; MATHNASIUM.COM
Anyone who has struggled with math probably wondered if there is a better way to figure things out. The founders of Mathnasium came to that realization, too — then they did something about it.
Educators Peter Markovitz and David Ullendorff created the math-only learning center in the 1990s under the principle that in order “to be truly successful in school and life, students need a solid understanding of mathematics,” states their website. And because they found a gap between students’ learning skills and most schools’ math curricula, they focused on the objective to “teach children how to think, with the skills to succeed in math and the confidence to achieve their academic potential.”
With curriculum consultant Larry Martinek, they built the Mathnasium Method. “Children don’t hate math. What they hate is being confused, intimidated and embarrassed by math. With understanding comes passion, and with passion comes growth,” Martinek says.
Programs are available for students from early childhood to high school age.
California Bank & Trust distinguishes itself by being a relationship-focused bank dedicated to championing the people and businesses of California through a team of knowledgeable bankers and custom financial solutions, says spokeswoman Chantal Ramirez.
“Unlike other financial institutions that take a onesize-fits-all approach, we prioritize building meaningful relationships with our clients,” Ramirez said. “We commit to understanding the unique needs of our clients, allowing us to provide banking solutions that are ideally aligned with their financial goals.”
Some recent recognition includes a Platinum Award in the Hermes Creative Awards for its 2023 fall issue of In Your Corner magazine. Orange County Register readers have also voted California Bank & Trust as the county’s best bank for 10 consecutive years. California Bank & Trust President and CEO Eric Ellingsen was recognized as a 2024 CEO of the Year by the San Diego Business Journal.
2. Chase
“What truly sets us apart is our personalized service,” Ramirez said. “Each client is paired with a dedicated banker who offers expert guidance and a tailored banking experience. This
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; 800-935-9935; CHASE.COM
Chase serves millions of people with a wide range of services, including checking accounts, savings and CD accounts, personal and business credit cards, home loans, auto financing and investing options. Its website offers a detailed Financial Education Center with indepth articles.
One article answers this question: “What is a ranchstyle house?” Another answers: “How much do solar panels cost, and are they worth installing?” There’s also: “How to remove
tree sap from a car.”
On May 1, Chase announced new services designed to help small business owners to electronically create and send invoices, make better use of customer insights and speed up the payment process.
“We want to be good partners to our business clients, and that means listening to them and creating products and services that meet their needs,” said Ben Walter, the CEO of Chase for Business, in a statement.
personal touch ensures that our clients receive the attention and support they need to navigate the complexities of their financial landscape. Another key differentiator of CB&T is
its fiscal strength with local management and decisionmaking, backed by regional strength, with a strong balance sheet and capabilities.”
– Jessica Peralta
3. Farmers & Merchants Bank
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; 866-437-0011; FMB.COM
Founded in Long Beach in 1907 by C.J. Walker, Farmers & Merchants Bank provides white-glove service to clients at 27 branches from San Clemente to Santa Barbara, as well as through online and mobile banking, according to CEO Henry Walker.
Daniel K. Walker, fourthgeneration executive chairman of the board, and his brother, Henry, oversee the bank.
Henry Walker said Farmers & Merchants Bank has been supporting local communities in Orange
County for more than 68 years.
“We support organizations through charitable contributions, sponsorships, access to grant programs and through employee involvement,” Walker said.
“In 2023, F&M provided over $4.1 million in support to over 900 organizations across Southern California, with Orange County organizations garnering more than $1.8 million of the support. Three hundred and sixty-nine Orange County organizations benefited.”
Local county government employees needed a place for their finances back in 1938, so the Orange County Employees Credit Union was created. But, by the 1990s, the world had changed and Orange County’s Credit Union became a safe place for the money of pretty much anyone in Southern California.
This year, the credit union reported assets of more than $2.5 billion and membership exceeding 140,000.
“The efficiency and professionalism demonstrated at the OC credit union in Mission Viejo have made my banking experience smooth and enjoyable,” says Lake Forest’s Karen S. in her Yelp review. “She helped open up a checking account for my son and was very nice and welcoming. If you need help with an account, I recommend speaking with Tamara.”
Ty P. says Orange County’s Credit Union offers “the best auto loan rates, even on used cars. Their rates are at least 3 percent better than some of the national banks. This was my second auto loan with them, and I will not hesitate to work with them again. Not only is their service the best, their savings and loan rates are competitive.”
Orange County’s Credit Union encourages associates’ vigorous involvement in community activities through paid volunteer hours at organizations including Children Miracle Network, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, Crime Survivors, Hope Builders, KidWorks, Latinos in Action, NeighborWorks Orange County and OC United Way.
Focused on providing personal service and financial security to California school employees and their families since 1934, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is now the largest credit union in California and the fifth largest in the nation, with more than 1 million members and more than $25 billion in assets.
“Everything we do, every decision we make, is with an unwavering commitment to serving the best interests of members,” states its website.
SchoolsFirst takes its “people helping people” philosophy seriously.
The credit union is not only dedicated to member service, but also actively supports communities it serves through events, donations, scholarships and financial literacy programs, giving $2.2 million in charitable donations to school employees, school programs and students in 2021. SchoolsFirst FCU members and team members helped raise $263,537 for Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) affiliated hospitals.
3. Financial Partners Credit Union
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; FPCU.ORG
Founded in 1937, what is now Financial Partners Credit Union was created by a group of aviation industry workers as a safe alternative to the failing banks during the Great Depression. But as the aerospace industry changed over the decades, so did the credit union.
Despite the nonprofit, cooperative structure — meaning it’s owned by members, not Wall Street — Financial Partners has evolved into a full-service financial institution providing generally lower loan rates, higher savings rates and lower fees than the big banks, emphasizing value and focusing on high levels of customer service to members. FPCU also offers online and mobile banking, direct deposit, financial education and seminars
Financial Partners now holds more than $2 billion in assets, with 85,000 members and branches across California. To mark Financial Partners’ 85th anniversary, the new APEX Member Rewards program offers members more points the more they do business with the credit union.
is senior vice president of mortgage lending at the Guaranteed Rate office in Mission Viejo.
1. Frank Blakeley at Guaranteed Rate
27261 LAS RAMBLAS, SUITE 270, MISSION VIEJO; 949-433-0539; RATE.COM/FRANK-BLAKELEY-277820
Over the years, mortgage lender Frank Blakeley has helped lots of loyal customers. When people are buying a home, they need someone they feel they can trust. And they trust Blakeley — a lot.
During the 18 years he’s been in the mortgage industry, he’s ranked within the top 1% of mortgage originators in the U.S. for more than seven years, according to Scotsman Guide. That success rate and his experience have led Blakeley to become adept at identifying resources, simplifying processes and delivering desired results.
He says his “passion lies in helping people achieve their dreams of homeownership.” It’s a commitment he approaches with “impeccable follow-up and consistent open communication.”
Blakeley can help buyers get assistance with down payments via grants and programs available from federal and local governments, as well as VA and FHA loans.
“As first-time homebuyers, Frank and his team made the loan process incredibly smooth and easy,” says Andy C. on Zillow. “He answered any and all questions we had and made sure we got the best loan deal possible. Walking through each of the loan scenarios with Frank allowed us to make the best decisions for our needs.”
“Always proactive in reaching out for check-ins, giving updates, and [he] shows you different options,” says Gil D. on Zillow. “And [he] makes sure they find the best deal that aligns with your homeowner goals.”
– Shawn Price
2. Your Favorite Lenders, Anaheim
5100 E. LA PALMA AVE., SUITE 219, ANAHEIM; 714-340-0200; YOURFAVORITELENDERS.COM
A couple of Orange County natives wanted to create a company that would serve the community they grew up in. Garrett Anthony and Landis Williams, El Modena High School grads, created Your Favorite Lenders with the goal of being the top lender in the county within 10 years.
The focus is on both first-time homebuyers and commercial lending, CEO Anthony says. His old buddy Williams is the president. Together they’ve funded more than $100 million in loans.
For clients who are looking to make the move from renting to owning, Your Favorite Lenders helps walk them through the process. “Working with them, making sure the payment is something they can afford,” Anthony says.
In its commercial lending business, Your Favorite Lenders finances construction of multifamily properties, from those with four to eight units up to a 50-unit apartment complex.
3. Citizens Lending Group, Anaheim
3455 E. LA PALMA AVE., #102, ANAHEIM; 800-443-4042; CITIZENSREVERSEMORTGAGE.COM
For the veteran loan officers at Citizens Lending Group, trust is the key element essential in their more than 50 years of combined experience.
The combination of trust and experience makes their traditional home loans and commercial loans, as well as VA and FHA loans, valuable to customers. And the company now specializes in reverse mortgages for senior citizens.
However, for borrowers at least 62 years old, the primary goal is actually consumer education. Essential to their business is making sure they can provide clients reliable information about reverse mortgages, along with being ready to answer their questions. Putting together all the right information is key to the lending process, along with, of course, trust.
“Only when clients truly understand how reverse mortgages work, can they make an informed decision,” Citizens Lending Group says on its website.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Frank Blakeley
» BEST HEALTH: ASSISTED LIVING
1. Freedom Village Skilled Nursing
23442 EL TORO ROAD, BUILDING 2, LAKE FOREST; 949-472-4733; FREEDOMVILLAGE.ORG
Freedom Village Skilled Nursing is five-star Medicare rated and accepts most health insurances, according to its website.
The facility offers onsite physical, occupational and speech therapy, and its team of clinical professionals includes a medical director, registered nurses and licensed vocational nurses; physical, occupational and speech therapists; a registered dietitian; and certified nursing assistants.
Freedom Village offers 24-hour skilled nursing care specializing in rehabilitation as well as long-term assistance and support. It specializes in comprehensive coordinated care, with the Skilled Nursing and Rehab team working to make sure clients get high-quality care to support long-term health for when they leave.
Skilled Nursing services include registered nurses on staff and available around the clock, medication management, assistance with personal care, care plan meetings, engaging
activity programs, a 24hour bedside emergency call system, transportation to medical appointments, private serenity suites and semiprivate suites, a relaxing outdoor Fountain Patio, beauty salon and barbershop,
The Orchards Assisted Living offers full-time wellness nurses, trained caregivers and medication technicians available 24/7. There are a wide range of amenities for residents, a restaurant-style dining experience and a Life Enrichment Program. Apartments are private and include kitchenettes. There are six apartment floor plans with garden view or a private balcony. Common areas include a lounge, library, theater and outdoor courtyard. Weekly
housekeeping and personal laundry service are also available.
The assisted living team works with residents and families to determine the appropriate level of care. Every new resident is assessed during the move-in and as needed to make sure needs are always met. Other available services include limited tray service during illness, registered dietitian consulting, an on-call medical director, phone and cable TV, and a beauty and barber shop.
and Wi-Fi and basic cable. Skilled Nursing also offers a chef-prepared menu with healthy choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Rehab services include onsite physical, occupational and speech therapy and
3. Vivante
state-of-the-art rehabilitation programs. Freedom Village also has established relationships with hospice, home health and palliative care agencies, if needed.
– Jessica Peralta
COSTA MESA, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-506-4080, 949-347-5167; VIVANTELIVING.COM
Director of Marketing Stephanie Zachan says what sets Vivante apart is that the communities are locally owned, which offers the flexibility to create the best lifestyle possible for residents.
Vivante offers a culinary program focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared by professionally trained chefs. The Vivante Vitality Program, in partnership with California State University, Long Beach’s Department of Gerontology, is a physical,
nutritional, cognitive and mental wellness program that empowers participants to take control of their wellness at any age, according to Zachan.
“In addition, Vivante is the only community to have a partnership with Hoag, which includes onsite doctor visits, physical therapy and occupational therapy in our Hoag office, neurological evaluation and assessment of dementia and other medical services including clinical trials for cancer screening,” Zachan said.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Bree Magdaleno serves residents during the Ladies Summertime High Tea Social at Freedom Village on June 27.
» BEST HEALTH: DENTAL PRACTICE
1. Lollipop Dental
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; LOLLIPOPDENTAL.COM
If you’re a kid, a trip to the dentist can be really scary. Lollipop Dental makes it their mission to teach kids good dental health and safety.
Helping kids to practice good dental habits and getting them used to seeing a dentist is essential to lifelong oral health; even a child’s first couple of teeth are a reason to stop by one of the practice’s multiple offices. With each visit, staff members help teach kids how to brush and floss properly, and each visit features a fluoride treatment to strengthen and protect a child’s teeth, as well as dental sealants on the back molars that can last for years.
Every Lollipop office is a kid-friendly environment; parents can relax knowing dental services are provided with 100% safe, clean water, meeting EPA regulatory standards and keeping their children from exposure to potentially harmful micro bacteria.
“Honestly the best kids dentist there is,” says Yelp reviewer Tess C. of Costa Mesa.
“Very clean, spacious office. There are TVs & iPads in the
waiting room ... even TVs mounted on the ceiling for the little ones while they get their teeth checked. On top of
2. Draper Family Dentistry
629 CAMINO DE LOS MARES, SAN CLEMENTE; 949-248-5555; JONDRAPERDDS.COM
Jon Draper’s San Clemente practice is driven by a sense of family — the sense that someone is looking out for every family member and taking care of them when they need it.
Draper’s staff members carry dentistry’s most advanced educations and use the most cutting-edge dental technology to always aim for the highest quality care in a pleasant environment. Services include comprehensive dental hygiene, teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, implants and root canals.
“I hate going to the dentist,” says Anne K. of San Clemente in her review. “I just went in for a cleaning … I have been to many dentists in my life and have never experienced such a thorough cleaning.”
“We are new patients with no standing relationship in place, the staff were kind and accommodating as if we were patients for years,” says Rob G. of Laguna Niguel in his Yelp review.
all that, the staff are so nice, friendly, and patient with our daughter. Like most kids, she’s always nervous about doctor/
3. Hagen & Pham Dental
18426 BROOKHURST ST., SUITE 101, FOUNTAIN VALLEY; 714-965-5255; HAGENANDPHAMDENTAL.COM
In the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere of the Hagen & Pham Dental office, a patient can enjoy state-of-the-art dentistry that fits in their schedule.
Begun in 1986 with the idea that “all that is good begins with a smile,” the practice has used the latest technology to give patients the best care in the greatest comfort.
Patients can enjoy their own private television, or Wi-Fi service to keep their day on track. Services also
include Chairside Ecoomical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic same-day metal-free fillings and crowns, implants, root canals, oral surgery, periodontal care, Invisalign, teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry and children’s dentistry.
“Our goal is to make sure our patients feel comfortable, cared for, and listened to,” says their website. “Plus, we’re dedicated to doing our part to protect the environment and make our community a better place.”
dentist visits, but she always comes out happy.”
– Shawn Price
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST HEALTH: FITNESS CENTER / BOOT CAMP
1. 24 Hour Fitness
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; 24HOURFITNESS.COM
The second largest fitness club in the U.S. understands that exercise, in one form or another, is essential to mental well-being as well as physical well-being. How you use your time in the gym is critical to that exercise.
Because of that, the company’s 287 clubs across 11 states are roomy and welcoming, with top-line equipment for strength and cardio workouts — such as free weights, machines and turf zones — as well as functional training. Classes are available for all levels, including studio and cycle classes. Personal trainers or coaches are readily available for members, as are as digital and virtual classes.
Members with the 24GO app can check in, then find the right classes or talk with an available coach. The app also features on-demand workouts,
custom plans and virtual classes.
Silver memberships allow members access to weights and cardio at the club of their choice. Gold memberships also allow members access to studio classes and the pool. Platinum memberships give members access to all services at any 24-Hour Fitness club.
“It’s really clean and everyone is super friendly,” says Natalya J. on Yelp. “Even during rush hour you can always find a machine and/or workout station.”
Andy P. likes that “it’s clean, people are respectful, and the staff is welcoming … and I’ve noticed the staff going around checking on the equipment.”
– Shawn Price
2. LA Fitness
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; LAFITNESS.COM
LA Fitness’ mission is plain and simple: good health. Founded in 1984, the fitness center continues seeking innovative ways to enhance the physical and emotional well-being of a diverse membership base.
With a wide range of amenities and trained staff, LA Fitness offers fun and effective workout options to family members of all ages and interests.
Its list of class offerings includes aqua fit, body works plus abs, boot camp conditioning, cardio jam and core, plus cycle, hip hop, kickbox cardio, mat Pilates, power circuit, senior fit, step sculpt and Zumba.
LA Fitness also offers Pro Results personal trainers who can help design a customized workout plan while providing ongoing motivation and support. It is ideal for all fitness levels and backgrounds. Certified personal trainers can help add variety to your workout routine while also helping you learn new exercises and proper form.
3. Esporta Fitness
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; ESPORTAFITNESS.COM
Fitness International, owner of LA Fitness, launched the more value-priced offshoot Esporta Fitness just before the pandemic in 2020. It was a smart move for both the company and its customers.
The slightly smaller gyms still offer plenty of options to keep members on track with whatever fitness plan they have. Cardio machines as well as weights and resistance training machines are available. And when it comes to weights, a full selection — including dumbbells, barbells, free weights and benches — is available to help sculpt, shape and tone.
For others, a variety of classes as well as basketball leagues and racquetball tournaments are available. A junior Olympic size pool with three lanes is available for lap swimming or for Aquafit classes; afterward, there’s also a spa and sauna.
“Honestly, not a bad gym especially for the price you pay,” says a Yelp review. “It’s always kept pretty clean and I rarely see machines out of service.”
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST HEALTH: HOSPITAL
1. Hoag Hospital
NEWPORT BEACH, IRVINE; 949-764-4624; HOAG.ORG
As a nonprofit, regional health care delivery system in Orange County, Hoag offers comprehensive, personalized care. Hoag is made up of 1,800 physicians, 16 urgent care facilities, 11 health and wellness centers and two award-winning hospitals.
Hoag’s health care services include seven institutes offering specialized services in
cancer, digestive health, heart and vascular, neurosciences, spine and women’s health and orthopedics through Hoag’s affiliate, Hoag Orthopedic Institute, consisting of an orthopedic hospital and four ambulatory surgical centers.
Hoag is undergoing a $1 billion expansion of its Irvine campus that will include new state-of-the-art specialty care
MemorialCare is a nonprofit health system that includes four hospitals, two medical groups, imaging centers and surgical centers. Orange Coast Medical Center has previously been voted a Top Workplace and the No. 1 Best Hospital in Orange County by Register readers. Orange Coast Medical Center amenities include an American Cancer Society information center, cafeteria, dining cafe, interpreting service,
medical library, pharmacy and GetWell Network that turns a patient room TV into an interactive information, communication and entertainment source.
Orange Coast Medical Center also offers Vietnamese resources including Vietnamesespeaking physicians and staff, Vietnamese-language online classes like Benefits of Breastfeeding and a Childbirth Series, and also Vietnamese food selections.
centers for surgical innovation, cancer, digestive and women’s health, in addition to dedicated urgent care services for cancer patients.
Hoag has been the highest ranked hospital in Orange County by U.S. News & World Report and the only O.C. hospital ranked in the top 10 in California, as well as a designated Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
“As the highest ranked hospital in Orange County,
we are proud to bring our community access to the most advanced care today through Hoag’s clinical trials, state-of-the-art technologies, renowned institutes and world-class physicians,” said Robert T. Braithwaite, president and CEO of Hoag. “This designation is a tribute to Hoag’s commitment to delivering the highest quality, patient-centered care each and every day to our community.”
– Jessica Peralta
3. MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center
24451 HEALTH CENTER DRIVE, LAGUNA HILLS; 949-837-4500; MEMORIALCARE.ORG
MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center celebrates 50 years in 2024. The center is known for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer, heart disease, stroke, pulmonary disease and orthopedics.
The center has stood out for leadership in emergency medicine, breast health, age-friendly care and surgery, including robotic-assisted procedures, advanced imaging, neurosurgery and women’s health.
Saddleback Medical Center has expanded its midwifery care with the addition of certified nurse midwives who deliver babies exclusively at the center. The center’s midwife philosophy emphasizes comprehensive prenatal support, education and counseling. It aims to empower women to make informed choices to ensure they have the best possible birth experience and the autonomy to decide what feels most natural to them.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST HEALTH: MEDICAL GROUP
1. Edinger Medical Group
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714-965-2500; EDINGERMEDICALGROUP.COM
This is the eighth consecutive year that Edinger Medical Group has been named in the Best of OC reader poll, and it’s a run it takes very seriously.
Distinct from some other medical groups, physicianowned Edinger has specialized in family and internal medicine for more than 60 years, making it a multigenerational favorite of Orange County patients.
Al Osterhout, whose recent pancreatic cancer treatment has been successful, says his surgeon “checked in on me every day while I was in the hospital … 9 a.m. or 9 p.m.” He said he and his wife, who became an EMG patient 25 years earlier, “felt like he would be there if we needed anything.”
The two locations in the heart of Orange County feature 10 doctors and three nurse practitioners who treat about 140 patients a day. The patient-focused care is based on balance, because Edinger Medical Group is small enough to provide personal care and accessibility, but also big enough to have the
resources patients need.
“I had no pain at any time and had such excellent care at the hospital. I am in awe of their expertise,” said 92-year-
2. MemorialCare Medical Group
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; MEMORIALCARE.ORG
A group of doctors brought five Southern California hospitals together under one name in 1997 with the idea of providing better health care to L.A. and Orange counties. The evidence-based medicine they practiced was a new system called MemorialCare. MemorialCare is now available at more than 30 health centers, with more than 260 primary care doctors and 2,000 specialists, and includes urgent care centers, imaging centers, surgical and dialysis centers in areas like family medicine,
obstetrics-gynecology and pediatrics, oncology, cardiology, pulmonology and gastroenterology. Phone and video visits with doctors or nurses are available 24/7.
Consumer health site
Healthgrades recently named MemorialCare one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals for the second consecutive year. Brad Bowman, the site’s chief medical officer, says, “This kind of recognition gives patients peace of mind, knowing they are receiving some of the best care in the U.S.”
Other programs include digital training for alleviating stress, anxiety and depression;
diabetic care coordinators to help manage that condition; and senior care coordinators for navigating Medicare. – Shawn Price
3. Hoag Medical Group
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; HOAGMEDICALGROUP.COM
Starting with Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in 1952, the Hoag Family Foundation built a network of care that now treats nearly 30,000 inpatients and 350,000 outpatients annually.
In fact, Hoag’s medical group now includes three hospitals, 11 health and wellness centers and 16 urgent care centers. Its facilities offer same-day appointments and feature a roster of more than 500 specialists in various disciplines, from family
practice to internal medicine to pediatrics.
Hoag Hospital was the highest-ranked hospital in Orange County in 2022, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Hoag’s five institutes provide specialized care in cancer, heart and vascular, neurosciences, women’s health and orthopedics through Hoag’s affiliated Hoag Orthopedic Institute. They also feature a care management team that handles questions about care and logistical issues.
24251 AVENIDA DE LA CARLOTA, B1, LAGUNA HILLS; 949-667-9818; AMAZINGHEARING.NET
Amazing Hearing owner Ann Mundell-Noel says her store is staffed with audiologists who are trained to assess and treat hearing loss. They have either a master’s degree or doctorate degree in hearing science. Education, experience and empathy are at the heart of their customer service model, she says.
“We understand physiologically what is happening to the brain/ body when hearing loss occurs, and we are able to work with patients to get the best hearing aids for their individual needs,” says Mundell-Noel, herself a trained audiologist.
“Our job is to provide the best hearing available, and we do that well. We objectively measure all of our fittings and we follow best practices of the American Academy of Audiology.”
Mundell-Noel says finding the right hearing aid for an individual goes beyond the science of audiology.
“It is so much more than ‘buying a hearing aid,’” she says. “It is about ‘fitting the person’ and their world. The hearing aids can only perform as good as the person that fits it. Fitting hearing aids is an art and science.”
2. Costco Wholesale
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; COSTCO.COM
A sound solution for finding the right hearing aids could be as easy as heading to your nearest Costco.
Orange County Costco Hearing Aid Centers offer hearing tests as well as hearing aids for purchase. The wholesaler carries several hearing aid brands — including Rexton, Jabra and Philips — with a variety of styles.
Hearing aid styles include those with receivers in the ear, completely in the ear canal, in the ear, in the canal and behind the ear.
Costco’s website offers
answers to frequently asked questions and other in-depth information about various hearing aid styles.
Costco even has an online hearing assessment to give you a general idea of how good or bad your hearing is. You can use it to help you determine whether you need an appointment to have your hearing assessed.
To find out if a particular Costco has a Hearing Aid Center, you can search under locations, click on “store details” and look for “hearing aids” under “warehouse services.”
In addition to those who have experienced hearing loss, the staff at Amazing Hearing also works with customers who have normal hearing and want custom hearing
3. HearUSA
protection and custom in-ear monitors, as well as people with tinnitus who have ringing in the ears.
– Shawn Price
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; 1-866-776-2864; HEARUSA.COM
HearUSA’s 15 hearing centers in Orange County — including locations in Seal Beach, La Habra, Laguna Niguel and Orange — are among the more than 380 the company operates across the country.
HearUSA has been making hearing devices that meet every need for more than 35 years and offers hundreds of highest-rated hearing aid brands — with more than 250 models.
Take an online hearing test and book a free hearing appointment via their website.
When you arrive at a hearing center for your appointment, a Client Experience Specialist at the front desk will get you checked in. A Hearing Care Professional will greet you at the start of the appointment and lead you to the testing suite. They will then ask you some questions and have you talk about your hearing challenges in greater detail. The more you tell them, the more they can help. The entire appointment will last about an hour.
MemorialCare Urgent Care locations include Costa Mesa, Cypress, San Juan Capistrano and Westminster, plus two each in Fountain Valley, Irvine and Huntington Beach. There is also 24/7 Virtual Urgent Care available for nonemergency urgent medical needs.
Whether it’s a virtual or in-person visit, urgent care providers can treat a variety of adult and pediatric non-life-threatening emergencies.
Medical conditions the urgent care centers treat include abdominal pain, abscesses, allergic reactions, asthma, bites and stings, bumps and bruises, colds, coughs and mild fevers, COVID, cuts, dehydration, diarrhea, earaches, eye infections, flu, headaches, minor animal bites, minor burns, rashes, sinus infections, sore throats and strep throats, sports injuries, sprains
or strains, stomach flu, sunburn, urinary tract infections, vomiting and wounds.
For in-person care, walk-ins are accepted. You can also choose to “reserve your spot” online to schedule an appointment.
In the case of a minor medical issue, urgent care providers will see patients right away. No appointment or prior authorization is needed.
Resources and services available at MemorialCare Urgent Care include x-ray, onsite pharmacy, lab, COVID testing, EKG, flu shots and travel immunizations. MemorialCare Urgent Care accepts most insurances and treats all ages, from newborn up. Their offices can also do sports physicals.
Bree Maloney, director of communications and experience for Marque Urgent Care, said several key factors set the provider apart, including a highly skilled medical team, comprehensive services, pediatric services, chiropractic and physical therapy services, convenient hours and locations, a patient-centered approach, efficient and streamlined processes and exceptional customer service.
“We offer a wide range of services, including treatment for minor injuries and illnesses, diagnostic testing, vaccinations and preventive care, ensuring that our patients receive all the convenient and necessary care under one roof,” Maloney said. “We partnered with CHOC, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, where CHOC pediatricians will work alongside our urgent care providers at select clinics in Orange County. We know that visiting an urgent care, especially with little ones, can often be stressful. This is why we work hard to create a calm and welcoming environment.”
Marque has six facilities in Orange County, located in Aliso Viejo, Buena Park, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach and Rancho Santa Margarita.
3. Hoag Urgent Care
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; HOAGURGENTCARE.COM
Hoag Urgent Care aims to provide patients with greater access to high-quality medical care by offering more locations, increased hours and patient-friendly online reservations and wait times.
Hoag Urgent Care has 16 Orange County locations. They are open seven days a week and offer online wait times and check-in.
They can treat most injuries and illnesses, from coughs and colds to sprains, fractures, rashes and more. Hoag Urgent Care offers many primary care services, such as health screenings, annual exams and vaccinations.
Hoag is undergoing a $1 billion expansion of its Irvine campus that will be known as the Sun Family Campus. When completed, the expanded campus will include new state-of-the-art specialty care centers for surgical innovation, cancer, digestive and women’s health, in addition to dedicated urgent care services for cancer patients.
» BEST RETAIL: CANNABIS DISPENSARY
1. Blüm
2721 S. GRAND AVE., SANTA ANA; 714-582-3446; LETSBLUM.COM/SANTA-ANA-DISPENSARY
While many cannabis dispensaries are tucked away in industrial areas, Blüm’s Santa Ana store has a prominent, high-profile location overlooking the 55 Freeway. Customers who enter the large, two-story building also notice another difference.
The store’s upstairs area resembles a typical dispensary, with “budtenders” showing customers various products and answering questions, says store manager Jake Benander. However, customers who know what they want and are looking to save time can bypass the upstairs and select their purchases from automated kiosks located on the first floor. Online orders with express pick-up or local delivery are also available.
Blüm’s high-visibility and freeway-adjacent location mean that the store draws its clientele from a wide geographic area, Benander said, adding that customer demographics are also diverse.
“Our age range is very
2. Farmacy
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
A Blüm employee stands behind some of the dispensary’s products.
wide and very vast,” he said, adding that the average age of shoppers is between 43 and 49.
The store’s product line includes flower, vapes, edibles, pre-rolls, tinctures, topicals and extracts. Edibles are the most popular product
1327 E. SAINT GERTRUDE PLACE, SANTA ANA; 714-576-2150; FARMACYSHOP.COM
Farmacy opened its O.C. store in 2016, offering products like flower, edibles and concentrates, and have since added cartridges and extracts for cannabis vaping, tinctures, sleep aids and CBD topicals. Products are also available online for same-day delivery.
with customers, Benander said.
Blüm’s space on Grand Avenue previously housed People’s California, a cannabis dispensary that ranked among the top Best of Orange County vote-getters in 2022 and 2023.
Cindy Warner wrote this in her Google review: “Nice store. It allows different ways of shopping, quick or leisurely. The selection is much bigger than other dispensaries I’ve been to in the OC area.”
– Shawn Price
3. Haven Cannabis Marijuana and Weed Dispensary
8260 MONROE AVE., STANTON; 657-999-5409; MYHAVENSTORES.COM
“Our holistic experience is inspired by the pursuit of a life well-lived, supporting happy lives and personal satisfaction through a natural and local approach,” says its website. “We want to move beyond stigma, beyond stereotype, to deliver enriching and natural experiences … where even someone who’s brand new to recreational cannabis feels at home.”
Farmacy’s Santa Ana store serves as a community hub not only for premium products, but also for expert cannabis education and guidance. Its Friends of the Farm video series provides expert knowledge on cannabis for seniors, pets, treating epilepsy and pain, product testing and dozens of topics.
Haven Cannabis Marijuana and Weed Dispensary tries to balance the joy with the promise of legal pot. Recreational and medical marijuana are given the same footing, and the products prove it, whether they are Sativa, Indica or CBD.
Haven carries gummies, cookies, ice cream, chocolates, baked goods, drinks, extract, vape and tinctures – all designed for recreational use – alongside CBD gummies, tinctures,
patches and vape products, and a line of CBD for pets.
“Don’t be shy, our staff loves to share their insights about cannabis and how it can help improve the quality of life,” the website says. “They can tell you what’s new, which products get the best results, and which are the most popular. Our cannabis experts are trained to listen to you and provide cannabis solutions for your medical needs and recreational enjoyment.”
» BEST RETAIL: CBD STORE
1. Herbsnleaf, Costa Mesa
1175 BAKER ST., #10D, COSTA MESA; 714-545-3620; HERBSNLEAF.COM
The products at Herbsnleaf in Costa Mesa can be edibles, drinks, capsules, vapes or oils. All offer the proven benefits of CBD as a treatment for chronic pain, anxiety and insomnia as well as other conditions. Herbsnleaf owners Prakash “Kash” Ronvelia opened the business in 2006, becoming one of the first retailers in Orange County selling hemp-based products.
Most of what he sells is for humans, but he also stocks a lot of products for pets.
According to Herbnleaf’s website, “We take pride in knowing that we have been able to help people and their pets with aches and pains as well as with their worries and anxieties.”
Certain CBD products are safe and designed for pets, including edible calming treats for dogs, as well as liquid CBD for cats or dogs experiencing stress, anxiety and agitation.
Beyond its line of CBD merchandise, Herbsnleaf also sells chocolate bars, gummies and syrup containing THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis.
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Hema, left, and ‘Kash’ Ronvelia opened Herbsnleaf in 2006 and were one of the first stores in Orange County to sell CBD products.
Ronvelia is grateful to his customers for the distinction, saying “first and foremost our commitment is towards our
2. The CBD Shop, Huntington Beach
17741 BEACH BLVD., HUNTINGTON BEACH, 657-464-9262; FACEBOOK.COM/THECBDSHOPHB
This Huntington Beach CBD store also scored high in last year’s Best of OC poll, and it has kept customers happy with edibles, tinctures, topicals, vapes, softgels and capsules.
The CBD Shop’s website breaks down its merchandise by type of product, brand and also the symptom a customer may be seeking help with, such as sleep, pain, stress or anti-aging.
“I was looking for a particular product and had
questions,” says Rob D. in his Yelp review.
“I was blown away by how knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating, and truly interested in finding the right solution the folks at the store were.”
Kelsy P. of Tustin had this to say on Yelp: “The employees at the CBD Shop were super informative. They helped answer all of my questions and explained the differences in the products super well so that we got a good deal on what I was looking for.”
customers. It’s a commitment to provide the best service, products, environment and prices to our customers.” He
3. Lucidity CBD
also says he’s thrilled to have been voted once again the best CBD store in OC. – Shawn Price
10840 WARNER AVE., SUITE 112, FOUNTAIN VALLEY; 949-502-5755; LUCIDITYCBD.COM
Lucidity CBD doesn’t just sell CBD products; it also creates them. Its products are sourced from organic, plantbased ingredients and mixed with sustainably produced cannabidiol derived from hemp.
Starting with hemp organically grown in Colorado, Lucidity uses solvent-free CO2 to extract the CBD molecules.
The store’s “Rest-RecoverRepeat” slogan is born of a mission to provide quality therapeutic products from CBD oils, massage oils and pain creams, as well as
gummies and CBD products for pets — all of which have no psychoactive effect.
Lucidity brands are used by Burke Williams and Omni Resorts.
“We constantly test our products and use leading industry research to demonstrate the efficacy of our ingredients and cannabidiol,” the store says on its website. “We are committed to creating wellness products with the highest standards in manufacturing and the greatest potency in formulation.”
» BEST RETAIL: GROCERY STORE
1. Trader Joe’s
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; TRADERJOES.COM
Over the years, Trader Joe’s has set itself apart with a grocer-next-door feel.
Nakia Rohde, the company’s public relations manager, said Trader Joe’s is a national chain of neighborhood grocery stores committed to providing its customers value in the form of quality products at the best everyday prices.
“Through our rewarding products and knowledgeable, friendly crew members, we have been transforming grocery shopping into a welcoming journey full of discovery and fun since 1967,” Rohde said. “At Trader Joe’s, you won’t find a lot of branded items. Instead, you’ll discover a store full of unique and interesting products, along with everyday basics, in the Trader Joe’s label.”
Rohde said the stores want each customer’s shopping experience to be rewarding, eventful and fun.
“Our helpful, friendly crew members take care in maintaining safe and inviting neighborhood stores; in crafting creative, informative
signage to support our customers’ understanding of our products; and in creating a store environment that imparts adventure, humor and a warm sense of community,” Rohde said.
Trader Joe’s is also
2. State Bros. Markets
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; STATERBROS.COM
Stater Bros. Markets traces its beginnings back to a small grocery store in Yucaipa.
Twin brothers Cleo and Leo Stater bought the original Stater Bros. Market from W.A. Davis with a $600 down payment.
Stater Bros. officially opened for business on Aug. 17, 1936, during the Great Depression.
“Over the years, Stater Bros. has become an iconic Southern California mainstay and trusted household name by consistently providing generations of customers with exceptional quality,
everyday low prices, friendly service, fresh product offerings and full-service meat departments,” the store’s website says.
Speaking of meat departments, they offer seasoning, grinding, tenderizing and custom cuts at no extra cost.
Since 2008, Stater Bros. has contributed more than $80 million in food and funds to many local organizations that support hunger relief, children’s wellbeing, education, health and help for veterans and active service members.
committed to not wasting food and giving back. In 2022, the company donated more than $411 million worth of food and beverages to 1,385 nonprofit partners in communities across the country.
If you’re looking for some ways to take Trader Joe’s food and make it your own, its website features pages and pages of recipes using the grocer’s products.
– Jessica Peralta
3. Sprouts Farmers Market
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; SPROUTS.COM
Sprouts prides itself on a commitment to providing customers with friendly, knowledgeable and engaging service to support them on their healthy living journeys. The grocery chain has also pledged to be good neighbors in the communities it serves through volunteering and local event support. Every year, Sprouts’ direct and inkind donations help support local nonprofit organizations, food banks and service groups.
It strives to be more than just a grocery store. Founded in 2015, the Sprouts Healthy
Communities Foundation extends the chain’s community involvement by supporting health- and wellness-related causes that directly impact local neighborhoods.
“We focus on giving locally in the areas of food security and hunger relief; promoting health education and nutrition; and helping people living with disabilities and health concerns. We are proud to partner with numerous organizations, including Out Teach, Life Lab and Sage Garden Project,” says the Sprouts website.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST RETAIL: SHOPPING / DINING DESTINATION
1. Irvine Spectrum Center
670 SPECTRUM CENTER DRIVE, IRVINE; 949-790-4871; IRVINESPECTRUMCENTER.COM
It’s difficult to pin down all the activity going on at any given time at Irvine Spectrum Center, but we’ll try. Attractions include the Giant Wheel, Carousel and the Spectrum Climber — a three-dimensional climbing sculpture standing 18 feet tall and 49 feet wide with 75 platforms. The Climber is located near Target and offers children adventure while challenging them to problem-solve, think spatially and have fun.
The Escape Game also offers a new kind of experience at the center, with a live 60-minute adventure. Guests can choose from various themes, including exploring space, escaping prison, taking part in a heist and more. You and your team will have 60 minutes to uncover clues, crack codes, solve puzzles and complete
your mission. The Escape Game can offer families, friends, couples and business employees something a little different to bond over.
Meanwhile, Odyssey VR offers virtual and augmented reality rides, games, races, music and parties. Guests can explore the mysteries of the metaverse with VR Holodeck Game Stations. VR Theme Park Ride Stations are geared to roller coaster and horror fans. There’s a VR Fast & Furious Race Station, E-Sports Alienware Stations and Music DJ Station, too.
Of course those are just some entertainment highlights. Don’t forget there’s plenty of dining and shopping to be done. Oh yeah, and there’s also a movie theater.
– Jessica Peralta
2. South Coast Plaza
3333 BRISTOL ST., COSTA MESA; 800782-8888; SOUTHCOASTPLAZA.COM
The Segerstrom family opened South Coast Plaza in 1967 on land the family had farmed for 125 years. South Coast Plaza opens an average of more than 25 new stores per year. Most of its designer boutiques are Orange County exclusives, and many are California or West Coast exclusives.
Located on land donated by the Segerstrom family, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts — which includes the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, South Coast Repertory theater company and the Orange County Museum of Art — adds to South Coast Plaza’s cultural allure.
A visit to South Coast Plaza can also include immersive experiences, such as exclusive brand installations and exhibitions. Recent and upcoming examples include pop-up installations from Bulgari, Gentle Monster and Maison Margiela, as well as collaborative events and installations with nonprofits such as American Ballet Theater, the Bowers Museum and City of Hope.
3. Fashion Island
401 NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-721-2000; FASHIONISLAND.COM
Fashion Island offers a retail experience that epitomizes the Newport Beach lifestyle with a curated set of designer boutiques and purveyors of luxury goods. There’s an array of dining options, from Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Blaze Pizza and Five Guys to Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Great Maple and Hana Grill. There are also special events to look out for, including Trivia Night and a Live Music Series at The Lot including country rock, jazz, classic rock and blues. Events change, so check the website for the most recent listings.
The Lot is a social hub for elevated cuisine, craft coffee, pastries, spirits and wines. With a movie theater onsite at Fashion Island, there’s also an in-theater dining menu, including fresh salads, hearth oven-baked flatbreads, sandwiches and shareable plates. You’ll also find popcorn flavors of chili, caramel and butter there, along with traditional candy and snacks.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST RETAIL: THRIFT STORE
1. Goodwill of Orange County
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; OCGOODWILL.ORG
Goodwill of Orange County has topped the readers’ poll for best thrift store for the third year in a row, and that popularity means something. For every dollar spent in shops, nearly another dollar went to workforce development programs.
And the ripple effect goes further. Items donated to Goodwill — in return for a receipt for your taxes — allow shoppers to pick up clothes or toys for the kids at a good price. And, since 2000, Goodwill programs have helped more than 238,000 adults and children, and more than 15,000 people — including many veterans — find jobs with the organization and build job skills and self-assurance in the workplace.
Marketing manager Menna Eshete says a Goodwill store “offers customers and donors an exceptional, contemporary and professional retail experience,” and they’ll “discover a vibrant, pristine and impeccably organized shopping environment brimming with a diverse selection of gently used items.”
Ultimately, it’s about more
Javier Rojas looks through clothing racks at the Goodwill of Orange County store in Anaheim.
than saving money.
“Goodwill provides a shopping experience driven by a noble cause, actively contributing to the betterment and brightness of our community,” Eshete
2. Orange Lutheran Thrift Shop
676 N. TUSTIN ST., ORANGE; 714-289-1182; WEAREOLU.ORG/THRIFTSHOP
Supporting Orange Lutheran High School has been the driving force behind its thrift shop since 1969. The shop has impressed county residents with its service, attention to the local community and affordable prices.
The shop’s two buildings sell everything from furniture to clothes to collectibles. In the furniture store, customers will find rugs, washers, dryers, refrigerators, medical equipment, lamps, mirrors and furnishings. The main store
houses just about everything else, including electronics, clothes and collectibles.
The shop is known for its daily and monthly deals. Customers can save 50% on purchases or take advantage of its buy-one, get-one deals.
“Over the years, I have found many unique items at this store,” says Jane Gottlieb in her Google review. “Sometimes it’s books, china or vintage tableware. The staff has been friendly, helpful and courteous.”
says. “Every purchase and donation made at Goodwill directly supports our mission of connecting people with opportunities. Donors wholeheartedly trust Goodwill with their gently used items, knowing that we possess the expertise to maximize their value, divert items from landfills, and foster a more sustainable future for our community.”
– Shawn Price
3. Sav-Mor Discount Thrift Store
FULLERTON, SANTA ANA; 714-738-6605
Sav-More’s no-nonsense thrift store offers a variety of items, but shoppers flock there mostly for clothes at bargain prices.
“Their prices are great,” GZ says in a Google review. “Way better prices than other larger thrift stores. I was specifically looking for children’s clothes. There’s a great selection of newborn through like size 6. The store was very organized and clean, and very helpful staff.”
Serenaa V., a Yelp commenter, also was impressed: “The variety of clothing they have here is way better than any thrift store I’ve ever gone to, and many of the items still have their tags on them,” she said. “I have been shopping at Macy’s for the past week looking for new work clothes, and I was so shocked to see many of the brands & items I saw there for full price were at this store for less than $3.”
KAREN TAPIA, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST RETAIL: WINE SELECTION
1. Wine Exchange
1544 E. WARNER AVE., SANTA ANA; 714-979-1509; WINEX.COM
Steve and Craig Zanotti started Liquor Exchange, as it was called then, back in 1982.
Maybe it was a good sign. That year, Bordeaux produced some of its finest wines ever.
From there, the company was able to quickly establish itself as one of the country’s top fine wine retailers. In the 1990s, now renamed Wine Exchange, the store became one of the first retailers to go online, delivering quality wines at low prices.
These days, Wine Exchange has a wine sales and education platform that includes a website, a new wine showroom that also features fine spirits and sake, an active social media following, its own YouTube channel (The Extract), and a pre-arrivals offer system that still features affordable wine.
“Really personable, knowledgeable staff who stock interesting vintages of wine — and spirits — from around the world. It’s a warehouse style place with tasting area. Highly
recommend it for variety, quality at a great price point,” says Patricia W. in her Google review.
“Was able to locate a certain wine, which was
2. Hi-Time Wine Cellars
250 OGLE ST., COSTA MESA; 800-331-3005; HITIMEWINE.NET
Family-owned Hi-Time Wine Cellars was founded by Fritz Hanson and his brotherin-law, Jim McVay. Opening in 1957 at their original location on 17th and Irvine in Costa Mesa, they moved to their current location in 1984 and built one of the largest underground temperaturecontrolled wine cellars in the country.
You might find three generations working at the store on any given day. The 3,000-square-foot cellar now includes 10,000-plus wines from all around the world. The selection represents
areas including California, Oregon, Washington, France, Italy, Spain, Hungary, Germany, Austria, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Portugal.
Wine tastings, monthly and periodic classes, beer and sake tastings and other special events are available.
“Our goal is to provide our customers with one of the largest selections of fine wines and rare spirits from all over the world, at competitive prices and without sacrificing the quality of our customer service,” states its website.
out of stock at a particular winery,” YM says in another review. “The price was very reasonable, and the delivery was quick. The wine was packaged well. Because of
3. Total Wine & More
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
this experience, I placed a second order. The Wine Exchange has become my ‘goto’ online wine store.” – Shawn Price
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; 1-855-328-9463; TOTALWINE.COM
Total Wine & More started in 1991 when brothers David and Robert Trone opened a small store in Delaware. Today, the chain includes 249 superstores across 27 states.
“We’re passionate about wine, and know many of our customers feel the same way. So we are committed to offering the nation’s best wine selection, with an emphasis on fine wines,” states its website.
A typical store carries more than 8,000 different wines from every wine-producing region in the world. All team members participate in
extensive training programs, weekly team wine tastings and monthly wine-producer seminars. Many travel to winemaking regions to meet producers and learn about their wines.
Over the past two decades, Total Wine & More has supported local, regional and national charitable organizations with more than $300 million in donations. Team members also commit to making communities better by completing a combined 200,000-plus volunteer service hours annually.
» BEST SERVICES: LAWYER / LAW FIRM
1. Easton & Easton
650 TOWN CENTER DRIVE, SUITE 1850, COSTA MESA; 714-733-2492; EASTONLAWOFFICES.COM
Matthew D. Easton says his family’s personal injury law firm, with more than 100 years of combined litigation experience fighting insurance companies, can deliver for clients.
“Due to the familial nature of our firm, we find there is a special synergy, as we all work together, that often translates into remarkable results for our clients,” Easton said. “In just the past year alone, we have acquired $32 million for a bicyclist struck by a cement truck — where the initial police report found our client at fault for the accident — and $26 million for a construction worker injured on a negligent worksite. Both cases had significant legal hurdles that we were able to surmount in order to acquire the full multimilliondollar policy limits for our clients in each case.”
The firm is the official personal injury attorney partner of Angels Baseball and the Anaheim Ducks, Easton said. As part of its partnerships with both teams, the firm has focused its efforts on two public service initiatives this past year. The first is sponsoring the season-long Designated Duck Driver Program, which rewards fans who agree to be designated drivers at Ducks home games with free nonalcoholic beverages. The second is a joint public information campaign with the Angels and Ducks to proactively inform the O.C. community about the intricacies of uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in hopes that more families will be properly protected before an accident happens.
– Jessica Peralta
2. Omega Law Group Injury & Accident Attorneys
600 W. SANTA ANA BLVD., SUITE 900-C, SANTA ANA; 866-942-3881; OMEGALAW.COM
Omega Law Group represents injured victims throughout the state with a legal team consisting of 17 attorneys. The trial lawyers have decades of combined legal experience and have successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases throughout California, including car and truck accidents, wrongful death and catastrophic injuries.
“I was hit while driving my motorcycle and got sideswiped. I fell off my bike and had a broken leg and arm, but thankfully, due to Ms. Gabriella’s hard work, not only was she able to get my medical bills paid, but I also received a considerable amount of money for my pain and suffering. She is caring, kind and knowledgeable in her business. I don’t know what I would have done without her help. Highly efficient, and I recommend this law firm hands down!” says one five-star reviewer.
Besides its office in Santa Ana, Omega Law Group operates locations in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Riverside, Fresno and San Francisco.
3. Law Office of Wais Azami
12832 VALLEY VIEW ST., #203, GARDEN GROVE; 714-321-9999; AZAMILAW.COM
Wais Azami is a criminal defense attorney in Orange County. According to his website, his clients receive “a bluecollar fight with a white-collar style.”
“I take a limited number of cases to focus more on yours: quality over quantity,” he states on his website.
Payment plans are available for criminal matters. Clients receive electronic access to their files for viewing court dates, making payments, communications and sharing documents.
“I’m an immigrant, almost trilingual and I’ve always had to work hard to survive,” Azami writes on his website. “My path to becoming a lawyer was anything but routine. Having endured immigration, culture shock, language barriers, poverty, life-threatening medical procedures, different career fields, divorce and almost every other obstacle you can imagine, I am in a better position to be able to understand your predicament.”
EASTON & EASTON LLP
From left, Travis Easton, Douglas Easton, Matthew Easton and Brian Easton.
» BEST SERVICES: PET CLINIC / VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Kennel attendant Bobbi Cadena
1. Alicia Pet Care Center
25800 JERONIMO ROAD, SUITE 100, MISSION VIEJO; 949-768-1313; MYPETSDR.COM
Alicia Pet Care Center has again topped the readers’ poll for the county’s best pet clinic because the family-owned, state-of-the-art, fullservice veterinary hospital values compassionate problem-solving through a pragmatic approach to pet care.
“Our dedicated team is a formidable ally for your pet’s improved health,” says Dr. Matthew Wheaton, owner and chief of staff. “We band together through compassion and efficient problem solving to get down to the bottom of things as quickly as possible to ensure good outcomes.”
The center offers up-to-date diagnostics and therapies, including laparoscopic surgery, laser therapy and cutting-edge diagnostic testing. Four doctors practice acupuncture, which complements other integrative
therapies like stem cell treatments, platelet-rich plasma therapy and pulsed electromagnetic frequency therapy. The clinic also offers routine services like wellness and preventive treatments, spaying and neutering, and dental care.
Google reviewer Janelle says the center provided “excellent service. I truly appreciate how comfortable they tried making Winston feel, though he was scared. The vet tech was wonderful, so sweet and gave amazing service. I truly feel comfortable leaving my dog in your care, and that means the world to me because he is my whole world.”
Richard says the center has “a calming feel with its decor,” and staff were “attentive to both my pup and myself.”
Sendero Animal Hospital is built on owner Dr. Louis Mauna’s dedication to compassionate care for animals.
Mauna and his team of technicians, client service representatives and three other veterinarians offer many services. These include puppy and kitten vaccination plans; junior and senior pet wellness plans; an online pet pharmacy; an in-house lab for prompt analysis of blood samples, urinalysis, and diagnostic imaging; radiology; ultrasound; ER; and a full surgical suite. Online new client and dropoff forms are also available.
“Henry has been going there since this office opened,” says Laura in her Google review. “He loved all the staff and Dr. Mauna very much. We always found the right treatment plan for all his health needs and everything was clearly communicated. I was always able to reach someone by phone and had the doctors get back to me in a timely fashion. Appointments were routinely on time and the office is nice and clean. We love you Sendero.”
3. Alpine Animal Hospital
41 E. WHITTIER BLVD., LA HABRA; 562-694-3696
Alpine Animal Hospital is an underthe-radar veterinary office that provides no-nonsense care, with a devoted following of main veterinarian Hong Kim.
“Dr. Kim is the best in the business,” says Dylan V. in his Yelp review. “He has a passion for veterinary services like I’ve never seen before. Dr. Kim is straight to the point.”
Ashley B. of Orange says, “Dr. Kim is a master at his craft. My yellow lab had a large tumor on her shoulder and needed surgery. Dr Kim performed the surgery immediately. While not the most conventional veterinarian, his knowledge and genuine care for your animal is next level. There is no up-sell. He loves the animals and wants to fix them. So grateful to have found him and to have my dog happy and healthy again.”
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
trims a dog’s nails at Alicia Pet Care Center.
ASPECIAL Than kYou TOALLOFOURADVERTISERS
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• Charitable Organization
• Cosmetic Surgeon
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Luxury Lifestyle
» BEST CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION
1. Goodwill of Orange County
410 N. FAIRVIEW ST., SANTA ANA; 714-547-6308; OCGOODWILL.ORG
Goodwill of Orange County celebrates 100 years this year.
“For a century, we have created pathways to careers and greater independence for millions of O.C. residents, regardless of their starting point,” said Nicole Suydam, president and CEO of Goodwill of Orange County.
“We continue to be the
2. Promise 4 Paws
largest provider of workforce development programs in the county, serving more than 30,000 individuals annually. We are so proud to get to do this work and support the personal career journeys of so many.”
Suydam said Goodwill of O.C. sits at the intersection of people, planet and prosperity
31878 DEL OBISPO ST., #118-379, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; 949-600-1964; PROMISE4PAWS.ORG
According to its website, the people behind Promise 4 Paws are a group of volunteers dedicated to rescuing homeless animals, rehabilitating them and finding them permanent, loving homes. The charity provides veterinary care and places them in foster homes until they are adopted.
Promise 4 Paws President Michelle Cole’s passion for helping animals in need started at a young age, according to the website. As an adult, Cole’s first
rescue was a sweet little dog named Bailey, who had been tossed into a dumpster and left to die. She began fostering for Promise 4 Paws in 2018 and immediately decided that she needed to be more involved.
“Rescue animals have taught me so much about life, and the unconditional love that they have for you never fails to amaze me with all they’ve been through,” according to Cole’s website bio. “They truly have made me a better person.”
— connecting people to opportunity, protecting the planet through its retail and sustainability model and creating economic prosperity for the community through its business model.
“This model makes us unique and opens up many ways for the community to be a part of this impact: from donating gently used goods or shopping at one of our 25 stores to enrolling in one of our workforce development programs or hiring trained
3. The Salvation Army
and ready employees from us — each one of these contributes to Goodwill O.C.’s circle of impact,” Suydam said. “As we look ahead to the next century of service to O.C., we aim to double our impact and footprint. It’s a big and bold goal, but one that will help our aspirational vision become a reality — one where everyone in the community has access to meaningful career opportunities.”
Jane Yi, digital marketing manager for The Salvation Army Southern California Division Orange County, says The Salvation Army Orange County’s goal is not only to provide shelter for people living in the streets, but to provide comprehensive resources that address emotional, mental, physical and spiritual needs.
“Our Anti-Trafficking Services program provides human trafficking survivors in Orange County holistic care through trauma-informed, culturallyand linguistically-sensitive, strengths-based and survivor-
centered case management and advocacy,” Yi said. “Our Pathway of Hope program provides individualized services to families who find themselves in cycles of crisis, including unemployment, unstable housing, lack of education and more.”
Yi said The Salvation Army Orange County’s Center of Hope Apartments recently received a Transformative Communities Award.
“We are committed to assisting families, men, women, young adults, seniors and veterans,” Yi said.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST COSMETIC SURGEON
1. Dr. Raymond Lee, FaceologyMD
1401 AVOCADO AVE., SUITE 610, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-706-2277; FACEOLOGYMD.COM
At FaceologyMD, Dr. Raymond Lee has built a team of expert providers to address each aspect of the face, nose, head and neck. Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia and oral sedation or IV sedation, according to Lee.
As a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, he has performed more than 5,000 face and neck lifts. Specializing in facial rejuvenation procedures has given him the chance to develop a deep understanding and expertise in this field.
Surgeries take place in the practice’s accredited ambulatory surgery center. The staff strives to create a comfortable and supportive environment, where patients feel heard and understood and cared for throughout their surgical or non-surgical journey, Lee said.
According to the FaceologyMD website, Lee has co-authored numerous medical articles and offered several professional presentations across the
country to other plastic and cosmetic surgeons. He also volunteers his time and skill by performing reconstructive surgeries for acquired and congenital pediatric facial defects at the Angkor Hospital for Children in Siem
2. Facial Aesthetic Concepts
ALISO VIEJO, RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, SAN CLEMENTE; 949-397-6696; FACORANGECOUNTY.COM
Dr. Richard Gangnes opened Facial Aesthetic Concepts in San Clemente in 1980. Facial Aesthetic Concepts has since been offering patients a central source for all their aesthetic needs. The centers are made up of a team of medical professionals, including board-certified surgeons, dermatologic specialists and medical estheticians. All their estheticians are also trained in cosmeceutical ingredients technology and can review home regimens to offer suggestions for improvement. The staff uses facial and body rejuvenation techniques
in esthetic surgery and nonsurgical procedures to improve skin tone and elasticity, repair sun damage, eliminate stubborn fat or smooth fine lines and wrinkles, according to the website.
Facial Aesthetic Concepts services include nonsurgical cosmetic procedures like Botox, Kybella, injectable fillers, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and laser skin treatment. Med spa services include chemical peels, facials, waxing, microneedling, microblading and more. The practice also offers facial, breast and body plastic surgery as well as hair restoration.
Reap, Cambodia, and CURE International Hospital in the Dominican Republic. Lee has won other recognitions, including previous Orange County Register Best of OC awards, Castle Connolly Top Doctor,
Super Doctors and was the most sought-after facial plastic surgeon on RealSelf in 2022.
He’s been practicing in Orange County since 2006.
— Jessica Peralta
3. Dr. M. Hugh Bailey
351 HOSPITAL ROAD, SUITE 617, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-650-6710; COSMETIC-SURGEON.COM
Dr. M. Hugh Bailey offers the latest noninvasive, no-downtime treatments, specialized cosmetic surgery and much more. According to the website, founder and chief practitioner Dr. M. Hugh Bailey serves his patients with compassion, integrity and an exceptional attention to detail.
Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Bailey is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons. He
was a lecturer in plastic surgery at the University of Toronto and senior clinical fellow in craniofacial surgery at the Mayo Clinic. He trained in plastic surgery at Northwestern University, Chicago. He is a member of the clinical faculty of the University of California, Irvine, and is a prior chair of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach. He has presented scientific papers on his specialty to national and international conferences.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST CRUISE LINE
1. Carnival Cruise Line
231 WINDSOR WAY, LONG BEACH; 800-764-7419; CARNIVAL.COM
Carnival Cruise Line was founded in 1972 and has been growing ever since. Its latest ships are Carnival Jubilee, which set sail last December, and Carnival Firenze, now sailing from Long Beach.
Carnival Cruise Line is owned by Carnival Cor., which also owns Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Cunard Line, among
others.
“In a nutshell … we’re all about fun vacations at sea and ashore! A Carnival cruise features day and nighttime entertainment like stage shows, musical performances, deck parties, casinos and more. (Like what? Like waterslides!) We invite our guests to come as they are, and we make everyone feel
2. Princess Cruise Lines
800-774-6237; PRINCESS.COM
Princess Cruises first set sail in 1965 with a single ship cruising to Mexico. The line sailed into stardom in 1977 when one of its ships, Pacific Princess, was cast in a starring role on the popular TV series, “The Love Boat.” Princess Cruises continues to share the love with multi-course meals, Broadway-style shows, comedy acts and bands, and comfortable staterooms featuring the Princess Luxury Bed. It has been named Best Cruise Lines for the Money by US
News & World Report and Best in Travel by Money Magazine, according to its website.
“More than 50 years since its first cruise, Princess Cruises is now the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most soughtafter destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships,” said a Princess spokesperson.
right at home with comfy staterooms, attentive service, casual and elegant dining, plus a variety of bars and gathering places indoors and out,” according to its website. Its 27 ships operate two- to 29-day voyages, departing from every coast in the country. Destinations include the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, The Bahamas, Europe and Hawaii. Carnival Cruise Line Australia has two ships and offers cruises from Sydney and Brisbane to New Zealand and the Pacific
3. Viking
Islands.
Carnival values include ensuring safe, responsible and secure operations, embracing diversity and inclusivity, showing trust, care and respect for each other, ships and the environment, living and sharing a positive attitude, and having fun.
Carnival Cruise Line also supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Operation Homefront and other charitable causes.
— Jessica Peralta
855-338-4546; VIKINGCRUISES.COM
Viking’s Inclusive Value covers everything guests need. Ocean voyages include a complimentary shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi; free beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner; complimentary alternative dining; plus 24hour room service, afternoon tea service and self-service launderettes, according to a spokesperson.
Onboard activities focus on enrichment, offering lectures about the destination’s history presented by Viking’s resident historians or experts, as well as discussions on art, cooking
demonstrations of regional favorites and more.
“Viking’s award-winning vessels, service and inclusive value make it the world’s leading small ship cruise line, in the Mediterranean and beyond. The world’s leading small ship design, Viking’s fleet of vessels are designed specifically to bring guests closer to destinations around the world — often able to sail areas where larger cruise ships are not able to call upon,” according to the spokesperson.
Viking also operates river and expedition vessels around the world.
BRITTANY MURRAY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
1. Spa Gregorie’s Newport Beach
200 NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, SUITE 100, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-644-6672; SPAGREGORIES.COM
Spa Gregorie’s mission is “to provide the quintessential experience for our guests while nurturing a passionate and professional staff and making a significant contribution to our community,” according to its website.
Spa Gregorie’s has been voted Best Day Spa by American Spa Magazine, Day Spa Magazine, City Search and SpaFinder.
The spa aims to be a unique retreat for guests to escape daily stress, replenish the body and soul, and achieve whole body well-being. It offers guests a relaxing atmosphere and comfortable setting where they can experience a full line of spa and salon services.
Started by and at Spa Gregorie’s, Newport Beach, in 2003, the Greet the Day Spa Day Retreat is a half-day, restorative program offered for people nearing the end of their cancer treatment. According to its website, Spa Gregorie’s has the largest staff of oncologytrained therapists in the state, and all program services are performed by these therapists to ensure safety and efficacy. Featuring guided meditation, restorative movement and soothing spa treatments, the Spa Day Retreat provides a transition opportunity between clinical care and the practice of self-care.
Spa Gregorie’s offers several packages, including Head to Toe Renewal where you can build your own custom spa day with a one-hour massage, signature facial and your choice of a $25 value enhancement.
Theresa and Bill Armour opened the first Burke Williams Day Spa in 1984.
They categorized needs into three primary areas: The first is the fundamental need to rest, the second is to awaken or feel renewed energy, and the third is to heal.
“What has become clear to us with our guests is two very crucial things,” Theresa Armour said. “First, they turn to us for advice and expertise in what kind of services they should have. Second, they choose to return to Burke Williams because of how we made them feel.”
Service options span a variety of relaxation and beauty treatments, including massage therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures, baths and wet room treatments, plus aromatherapy spa treatments.
Each spa is equipped with a large co-ed lounge; separate spa amenities for men and women; whirlpools, steam room, dry sauna, cool misting room, private showers and cold deluge; quiet rooms; and vanity areas.
3. The Spa at Pelican Hill
22701 PELICAN HILL ROAD SOUTH, NEWPORT COAST; 888-507-6427; PELICANHILL.COM/SPA
The Spa at Pelican Hill offers a getaway within a getaway with a long list of massage therapies, body treatments and facials. For its signature massage treatments, the spa uses Body Bliss Intentional Aromatherapy oils and body butters that are small-batch, mostly organic botanicals and ethically wild-harvested essential oils free from parabens, mineral oil, artificial fragrances and phthalates.
Massage therapies include Recovery Deep Tissue Massage, Mama To Be Massage, Rejuvenation Aromatherapy Massage, Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, Lymphatic Massage and more.
The Coastal Renewal body treatment begins with a massage of rosemary olive body oil followed by a fine powder skin buff of nutrient-rich Pacific grains, coastal herbs and sea algae. The guest is then wrapped in a warm cocoon of infused linens to encourage detoxification. The treatment ends with the application of a hydrating rosemary shea butter.
PHOTO BY GETTY IMAGES
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
1. Happy Jewelers
1565 S. HARBOR BLVD., FULLERTON; 714-992-0454; HAPPYJEWELERS.COM
In 1973, a young Isa Arik, who was the son of a farmer, had an eye for design. His passion led him to sourcing and designing fine jewelry. He opened a store and soon developed a reputation for providing high-quality handcrafted jewelry. In 1993, he packed up his wife and four young children and left his native Turkey for the United States.
Happy Jewelers celebrates its 50th anniversary this October. Isa Arik’s sons, Gabe and Danny, represent the second generation of the family business.
Gabe and Danny Arik said Happy Jewelers is unlike any other jewelry shop, and they pride themselves on three pillars: customer service, quality craftsmanship and education.
They say that when customers shop with them, they are treated like family and walk away with their own happy experience.
The brothers said that not only are they industry leaders in custom engagement rings, but they also have one of the largest luxury watch collections and loose-diamond selections in the country. All of the work is done onsite. They also have bench jewelers to help with repairs and creations, and a watchmaker onsite.
“As the second generation, Danny and I hope that one day our children will continue the family tradition, bringing happiness to customers around the world,” Gabe said.
David Truong, owner of Mimi’s Jewelry, says the store prides itself on giving individual attention to every single client — whether it’s for a simple repair or a complete custom engagement ring.
The store’s services include selling gold and jewelry, custom jewelry, jewelry repair, watch repair and appraisals. Its online shop also offers rings and watches. Plus, Mimi’s has a certified gemologist, master jeweler and GIA specialist on staff.
“We use the latest technology with old-world techniques, implementing CAD CAM and pencil-paper sketches for design,” Truong said. “We take pride in everything we hand back to our clients. It sounds pretty obvious, but we really try to treat our clients like family.”
He said Mimi’s Jewelry is more than just a business and really cares for the community. His children attend schools in Fountain Valley.
“We live and play in Fountain Valley,” he said. “We love seeing our clients when we are around town.”
3. Winston’s Crown Jewelers
100 WEST COAST HIGHWAY, SUITE 101, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-642-5000; WINSTONSCROWNJEWELERS.COM
Winston’s Crown Jewelers’ flagship showroom in Newport Beach offers a collection of fine jewelry, diamonds and watches. Winston’s Crown Jewelers is family-owned and -operated since 1969. The owners are jewelry expert Glenn Verdult and designer Michelle Verdult. There is also a Winston’s Crown Jewelers in Costa Mesa, operated by son Brandon Verdult.
Winston’s has a skilled team of jewelry designers, master jewelers, three GIA gemologists and timepiece experts. The store has one of the largest inventories of diamonds and gemstones in Southern California.
“We have 5- to 30-carat diamonds ranging in colors from white, fancy yellow, fancy pink and — one of the rarest — fancy blue,” according to its website. “Our gemstone collection is vast, including a 100-carat tanzanite, 50-carat museum-quality emerald, and much more. Our highly trained staff and three GIA gemologists will guide you through a world of large and rare diamonds and gemstones that you never knew existed.”
30801 SOUTH COAST HWY., LAGUNA BEACH; 866-271-6953; MONTAGE.COM
Montage Laguna Beach has a very long list of awards and recognitions. It recently received “Two Keys” from the Michelin Guide, Hotels; “500 Hotel List” 2024 in Travel + Leisure magazine; and “Top Luxury Hotels in the US” by Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Hotel Awards 2024.
Montage Laguna Beach is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific, offering 30 acres of oceanfront luxury. It features 262 beachfront accommodations, a 20,000-square-foot spa, destination dining at The Loft, outdoor recreation (including three pools, beach and water sports), a fine art collection and more than 31,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. Every guest room at Montage Laguna Beach offers an ocean view.
Recently, the resort debuted several new, exclusive experiences for guests — from a private coastal helicopter tour to elevated beach picnics and a luxury Aviara boat
charter in Newport Beach Harbor.
For music buffs, there’s the Coastal Chords program; offered in partnership with Taylor Guitars, the program provides music-loving guests
2. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
1 MONARCH BEACH RESORT, DANA POINT; 800-722-1543; WALDORFASTORIAMONARCHBEACH.COM
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club — formerly the Monarch Beach Resort — sits on 175 acres on a 150-foot seaside bluff. This AAA Five-Diamond retreat offers everything from oceanfront culinary experiences to unique coastal activities and adventures.
The private Monarch Bay Beach Club, exclusive to guests and members, is the place to be for riding waves, soaking up the sun and enjoying the oceanfront bar and restaurant. You’ll have all the equipment you need to surf, paddle
board and more, with expert instruction and chair, umbrella and towel service on the sand. The indoor/outdoor bar offers iconic beach cocktails, local microbrews and a wine list highlighting California wineries. The dining menu showcases coastal cuisine.
Monarch Beach Golf Links has been named one of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play” and a GOLF Magazine “Gold Medal Resort.” The Waldorf Astoria Spa offers personalized experiences to guide guests into relaxation and wellness.
with the opportunity to play Taylor Koa GS Mini guitars throughout their stay.
For families, programs for children include Paintbox and Paintbox Petite, the resort’s club for children ages
5 to 12 and 2 to 5. Children enjoy thematically planned days that include crafts, arts, games and outdoor recreation in both full- and half-day sessions.
— Jessica Peralta
3. The Resort at Pelican Hill
22701 PELICAN HILL ROAD SOUTH, NEWPORT COAST; 888-507-6427; PELICANHILL.COM
The Resort at Pelican Hill opened on Nov. 26, 2008, in Renaissance-themed luxury. The resort offers 128 private villas with aroundthe-clock butler service and 204 residentially appointed bungalow guest rooms and suites with private terraces and hand-carved limestone fireplaces.
“Featuring inspiring, expansive ocean views, Pelican Hill captures the essence of a seaside Italian village, terraced on a verdant hillside in harmony with the natural environment. The 504-acre
resort is situated along one of the most serene and beautiful coastal settings in Southern California, where the Pacific Ocean laps tranquil beaches and thousands of acres of coastal habitat are permanently protected as open space or designated for recreational use only,” according to a press release.
Other amenities include a spa with 22 treatment rooms, restaurants including authentic northern Italian cuisine at Andrea, an iconic Coliseum pool and Pelican Hill Golf Club.
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST WATERFRONT DINING
1. Bluewater Grill
630 LIDO PARK DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-675-3474; BLUEWATERGRILL.COM
Since the early days in 1996, Bluewater Grill has strived to offer both locals and visitors the highest-quality seafood, sustainably harvested, at fair prices and in a friendly, stylish atmosphere, said cofounder and co-owner Jim Ulcickas.
“We see Bluewater as more than just a seafood restaurant,” Ulcickas said. “My partner, Rick, and I founded the restaurant as fishermen with a love for fish, fishing and the ocean, and we’ve been able to attract many managers and staff with the same passion over the years.”
He said that emphasis on freshness and quality has guided everything they do.
“We’re also one of the few seafood restaurants anywhere to operate its
own fishing vessel, Pilikia, so that we can offer humanely caught, just-offthe-boat swordfish and other fish directly to our guests,” he said.
He said they were one of the first seafood restaurants to publish its own Fish Origins Chart and talk about the importance of seafood sustainability and protecting the ocean for future generations. Currently, more than 90% of Bluewater’s lunch and dinner menus are certified sustainable. The restaurant recently partnered with Orange County Coastkeeper to recycle used oyster shells to re-establish wild oyster beds and eelgrass in Newport Harbor, which improves water quality, sea life habitat and reduces landfill.
— Jessica Peralta
2. The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
611 AVENIDA VICTORIA, SAN CLEMENTE; 949-498-6390; THEFISHERMANS RESTAURANTSANCLEMENTE.COM
The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar has become something of a San Clemente tradition in the charming beach town.
Known for having fresh seafood served right on the San Clemente Pier since 1981, Fisherman’s is a local icon and favorite hangout.
“The creation of the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar concept is meant to reflect the style of family dining featuring Pacific Northwest seafood,” according to its website.
The dining room offers a variety of entrées, ranging from daily fresh fish to pastas and steak. The dining room also offers a Sunset Dinners menu Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., and there’s also an Oyster Bar. Sunset Dinners options include calamari steak, roasted sunrise chicken, prawns, salmon and filet mignon steak as well as fresh catch and pasta of the day.
Named in honor of the father of international surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, who was known for his love of the ocean and warm hospitality, Duke’s aims for this same spirit of aloha, according to the restaurant’s Facebook page.
Duke’s offers a weekend brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — offering an assortment of items from crispy coconut shrimp to steak and eggs. There are also several specials throughout the week: Burger & Beer Monday, Taco Tuesday, Surf & Turf Thursday and Aloha Friday. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and dinner starts at 4 p.m.
“Relax and take in the views while you enjoy the Hawaiian beach house ambiance and the freshest premium seafood and prime steaks, uniquely prepared and thoughtfully served,” according to its Facebook page.
Duke’s is owned by T S Restaurants, which also operates Jake’s Del Mar in San Diego County, Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge in Lake Tahoe, Hula Grill in Honolulu, Leilani’s on the Beach and Kimo’s on Maui and Keoki’s Paradise on Kauai.
COURTESY OF BLUEWATER GRILL
» BEST WEALTH ADVISERS
1. Signature Estate & Investment Advisors
610 NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, SUITE 300, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-705-5188; SEIA.COM
SEIA combines its foundations in investment management and financial planning with advisory services to create a customized client experience. Through wealth counseling, the firm offers advice to families, couples and partners to help bring continuity to future generations. Business advisory services involve helping design company retirement plans, employee benefits and transition planning. Trust and estate planning involves working with attorneys to help protect clients’ legacies. Tax planning involves collaborating with tax professionals to help provide tax-efficient strategies. Risk management involves reviewing and implementing life insurance and long-term care coverage. Investment solutions involve providing alternate asset, college savings, variable product, 401(k) and pension solutions. Comprehensive financial planning offers financial, estate, retirement, investment and tax planning. Investment management offers strategic, tactical and dynamic asset allocation strategies and
2. Charles Schwab
management. SEIA has four offices in Southern California, along with others in such cities as Salt Lake City, Houston, Chicago, Cleveland, Boston and Tampa.
Giving back is also an underlying, long-standing theme for SEIA. The SEIA
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; 877-519-1403; SCHWAB.COM
The Investor’s Business Daily Most Trusted Bank award for 2024 was given to Charles Schwab. Charles Schwab also received the highest score in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Full-Service Investor Satisfaction Study, which measures investor satisfaction with fullservice investment firms.
Charles Schwab experts break down market news to provide practical insights and ideas for every investor. They cover bigpicture activity and also focus down to specific markets, like bonds, options, futures, international and more. You can learn expert
Signature Fund for Giving helps support local youth. SEIA supports CHOC, A Place Called Home, Richstone Family Center and Second Story in Dunn Loring, Virginia.
“Before the founding of the firm, partners, advisors and employees donated their time
perspectives on the driving forces behind the market trends, what the latest developments could mean for your portfolio in the short term as well as how these could impact long-term market outlooks.
The backbone of their in-depth knowledge is the Schwab Center for Financial Research (SCFR), which has provided fact-based viewpoints, research and practical guidance for more than 25 years.
For wealth management, Schwab offers a choice of approaches, from having a full-time dedicated adviser to receiving robo advice with professional help when needed.
and financial resources to make the world a better place for others. In our mutual recognition of the importance of giving back, we came together as a firm to pool our resources in support of children’s causes,” according to its website.
— Jessica Peralta
3. Beacon Pointe Advisors
NEWPORT BEACH; 949-720-9980; BEACONPOINTE.COM
Shannon Eusey, CEO of Beacon Pointe Advisors, said Beacon Pointe has more than $36 billion in client assets under its control and a robust national presence of more than 55 offices located throughout the country.
“As the largest female-led RIA in the country, boasting a corporate leadership team comprised of 60 percent women, Beacon Pointe has been a leader in diversity of thought and female representation since the firm’s founding in 2002,” Eusey said.
Beacon Pointe’s mission statement is simple: “We look to further enhance our clients’ lives and missions through the alignment of their wealth and what matters most.”
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Food & Drink
• Bakery
• Bar
• Barbecue
• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Burger
• Chicken
• Craft Brewery
• Date-Night Restaurant
• Dog-Friendly Restaurant
• Doughnut Shop
• Frozen Yogurt / Ice Cream
• Happy Hour
• Italian Restaurant
• Mexican Restaurant
• Pizza
• Seafood Restaurant
• Steakhouse
• Sushi
» BEST BAKERY
1. Porto’s Bakery and Cafe
7640 BEACH BLVD., BUENA PARK; PORTOSBAKERY.COM
Voters this year honored the culinary legacy of the late Rosa Porto, a Cuban immigrant who opened her first Porto’s Bakery in Echo Park, with a first-place win in the Best Bakery category. Last year, Porto’s also was a winner, taking second place in this category.
“We’re deeply honored to have been baking memories with you since 1960,” said the Porto’s Bakery family and team. “Our time in the communities we serve has truly been the heart of our journey. We take great pride in providing exceptional quality and service to our cherished guests and neighbors in Orange County. This accomplishment is a testament to our incredible team’s hard work and dedication, and we’re excited to continue serving and sharing special moments with you for many more years to come!”
After immigrating to America from Cuba with her husband, Rosa Porto sold homemade cakes to friends and relatives from her home while trying to make ends meet. Rosa Porto passed away in 2019, but her recipes and those handed down from her native Spanish mother remain a part of the successful
2. Sip & Sugar Co.
5557 E. SANTA ANA CANYON ROAD, SUITE 101, ANAHEIM HILLS; 657-223-9124; SIPANDSUGARCO.COM
Sip & Sugar Co. combines sweet treats with beauty, elegance and nostalgia for a unique afternoon tea experience. Sip & Sugar also creates custom cakes, tarts, cookies and other sweets for weddings and many other occasions.
The business, formerly known as The Gateaux Shoppe, adopted its new name earlier this year and added the afternoon tea service. “We switched up the business, and it’s been really busy ever since,” said owner Sally Mach of Fullerton. She said many moms, daughters
and grandmothers enjoy a formal teatime. “It’s nice for them to bring back that nostalgia.”
Afternoon teatimes are available Thursdays through Saturdays for guests to enjoy the Royal Tea Experience, with freshly baked scones, strawberry preserves and homemade cream, an assortment of tea sandwiches, fruit, sweets and — of course — tea.
There’s a special menu for “young royals” under the age of 10, and other teatime menus and packages are available.
family-run bakery business. Porto’s Bakery and Café remains a favorite spot to enjoy cakes, pastries and other bakery treats such as tarts, croissants, carrot cake, cheese rolls, breads, cakes,
empanadas and potato balls. Other specialties include a fresh fruit tartlet, tres leche cake loaf, Napoleon pastry and guava strudel pastries, among many others.
– Amy Bentley
3. Mag’s Donuts & Bakery
18048 CULVER DRIVE AND 6781 QUAIL HILL PARKWAY, IRVINE; MAGSDONUTS.COM
Mag’s Donuts & Bakery serves a variety of doughnuts and other goodies, from muffins to croissants to breakfast sandwiches, at two locations in Irvine. Specialty doughnuts include the Maple Bacon Croissant Donut and the Strawberries & Cream Croissant Donut.
Mag’s has been owned and operated by the Yen family since the 1980s. Leading the operations is family matriarch Yean Chhaing Yen. Yean immigrated to America with her husband, Ning Yen, and newborn daughter in 1979. They arrived with
nothing more than the clothes on their backs and the hope of achieving the American dream. The couple worked multiple jobs to make ends meet — Yean worked at Mag’s Donuts during the day and as a seamstress at night, while her husband worked as a janitor during the day and a doughnut baker at Mag’s at night.
The Yens eventually saved enough money to purchase Mag’s in the early 1980s when the original owner, after whom the doughnut shop is named, retired.
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
1. La Vida Cantina
1870 HARBOR BLVD., COSTA MESA; 949-612-2349; LAVIDACANTINA.COM
La Vida Cantina owner Alex Petrosian said his Mexican restaurant and bar stands out with its very large outdoor patio containing its own bar and fireplaces.
“Couple that with the beautiful Southern California weather, and our two giant palapas, and you’ll think you were sitting on a beach in Mexico while you’re enjoying one of our delicious margaritas,” Petrosian said.
Petrosian said this is La Vida Cantina’s third year in a row being recognized by Orange County Register readers.
“It’s an honor to be recognized consistently for our happy hour and brunch,” said Petrosian, who added that the restaurant is currently working on revamping its Taco Tuesday promotions.
“I’m excited to share the new food items with our guests,” Petrosian said. “Other new promotions that we’ve recently announced include our giant margarita — perfect for groups of three to four — as well as our happy hour,
five days a week, that gets all margaritas and all appetizers half price.”
The list of margarita options is extensive. Just to name a few, the Pineapple Picante is Ghost Tequila,
2. Muldoon’s Irish Pub
202 NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-640-4110; MULDOONSPUB.COM
Muldoon’s Irish Pub has served Newport Beach since 1974 with old-world charm including its sunken patio surrounding a giant tree, the cottage-like dining room and two different pubs with full bars, according to Marketing Director Ashleigh Wiehl.
“We are known for our traditional Irish fare as well as modern cuisine like inventive appetizers, steaks and fresh seafood.”
Guinness has presented Muldoon’s with its Gold Standard Award for serving perfectly poured Guinness
stout.
“It’s a recognition of the achievement of meeting their standards of quality dispense, pouring and presentation,” said Wiehl, who added that the pub’s new executive chef, Dan Cherri, has recently revamped the menu.
“Loyal patrons will still see house favorites like shepherd’s pie and Irish stew, but can now celebrate new additions like steak frites, hazelnut halibut, ginger miso grilled salmon and the cauliflower steak, which is a delicious vegan option.”
fresh pineapple, jalapeño, pineapple juice, agave nectar and lime juice.
The Blueberry Basil includes Maestro Dobel Silver Tequila, fresh blueberries, basil agave nectar and lime
3. Swallow’s Inn
juice. The Cactus Fruit has Maestro Dobel Silver Tequila, cactus fruit purée, sweet and sour, agave nectar and lime juice.
– Jessica
31786 CAMINO CAPISTRANO, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; 949-493-3188; SWALLOWSINN.COM
This San Juan Capistrano staple beckons with cold beer, cocktails, live music and a vibe full of history and nostalgia.
“This is truly a dive bar. … Saw a terrific band there last Saturday. … Hopping place, great crowd, beach atmosphere, lots to do in the area. Food was reasonable. … Lots of memorabilia, pictures, posters hanging on the walls. Kick back, relax, hang out kinda place,” according to one Tripadvisor reviewer. Swallow’s Inn has live
music every day of the week. The bar presents a lineup of both local and national bands — including country, rock and alternative genres.
“My husband and I celebrated our first anniversary here and we had a wonderful time. The food was very good and the service was excellent. When the time came to pay the bill, our server said that the bill was already paid for by the couple who was sitting next to us,” a Yelp reviewer wrote.
Peralta
LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST BARBECUE
1. Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; LUCILLESBBQ.COM
Lucille’s has become an Orange County institution –the place for Southern-style barbecue since it opened its first eatery just over the county line in Long Beach in 1999.
This year, the restaurant celebrates its 22nd consecutive year in the top echelon for what it says is “the best bar-bque with the finest Southern hospitality.” The eatery has grown to 19 restaurants in three Western states, with four in Orange County.
Founder Craig Hofman, whose family has been in the business since 1951 and operates the Hof’s Hut franchise and Hofman Hospitality Group, introduced the concept after a road trip in which he sampled “cues” from across the country.
For those who believe Southern California is a barbecue desert and find themselves visiting hole-inthe-wall joints with holein-the-wall results, Lucille’s produces high quality and dependable results.
The menu features recipes and tastes from the Carolinas,
2. Heritage Barbecue
Kansas, Texas, Tennessee and a slew of Southern specialties.
Each day, meats are prepared on-site in the company’s smokers. They’re hand cut to order and can
31721 CAMINO CAPISTRANO, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; HERITAGECRAFTBBQ.COM
When Danny Castillo transitioned from backyard feasts to pop-ups to a South County sit-down, even he couldn’t have foreseen this. Heritage Barbecue, with its long lines, sold-out offerings and commitment to excellence, has become the worst-kept secret in Orange County “cue” circles. It is also the O.C.’s only Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized barbecue joint. Former Orange County Register restaurant critic Brad A. Johnson named Heritage as Orange County’s best place to
eat in 2022.
Resolutely old-school, Heritage doesn’t take phone orders, make deliveries, or reserve seating. You can order on the website.
Hours are 11 a.m. until 7-8 p.m., or until the food runs out, Wednesdays through Sundays.
The premium meats are slow-cooked Texas style –with a little East L.A. flair – for 12 to 14 hours. However, you never know when you might suddenly find Viet Seoul, a Little Saigon take on tri-tip, on the menu.
range from single servings to 15-person family feasts.
The baby back ribs remain a perennial favorite, although the St. Louis ribs, Texas-style brisket and BBQ tri-tip are
among the favorites.
Top off your meal with desserts such as a deep-dish peach cobbler or old-fashioned banana pudding.
– Greg Mellen
3. Bad to the Bone BBQ
31738 RANCHO VIEJO ROAD, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; 949-218-0227; BADTOTHEBONE-BBQ.COM
Founded in 2005 as a “real pit BBQ” catering business by former rodeo performer Marty Wells and his wife, Mary Stavros, Bad to the Bone in San Juan Capistrano has become a popular barbecue restaurant consistently touted by locals.
Those pits cook the meat for a good, long time over pecan wood imported from the Midwest, according to the website.
Cowboy-curated, if you will, the menu consists of recipes and rubs the couple collected on the rodeo circuit
and cooked over pecan wood for extended periods.
The baby back and St. Louis ribs are the most popular items, the brisket is not to be missed and, of course, you can mix and match meats to get tastes of all.
The menu also features tritip, chicken, pulled pork and pulled smoked chicken and sausage, as well as generous traditional sides.
The full bar has more than 20 beers on tap and a wide selection of whiskey, tequila and wine.
MERRILL SHINDLER, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST BREAKFAST
1. Broken Yolk Cafe
For the second consecutive year, Broken Yolk Cafe was voted the top winner in the breakfast category.
Broken Yolk opened in 1979 in the Pacific Beach area of San Diego and since then has expanded to four states outside California: Arizona, Nevada, Texas and Idaho. The restaurant is known for its signature eggs Benedict dishes, mimosas, homemade sauces, soups and baked goods. Broken Yolk has 39 locations nationwide, seven of them in Orange County, including a new restaurant that opened this summer in Irvine.
“We’ve had the opportunity to serve the Orange County community for over 10 years, and I’m grateful for all our passionate team members who have contributed to our success,” said Michael DiNorscia, owner of the Orange County franchise system.
Broken Yolk offers an extensive menu that includes healthy breakfasts like avocado toast and a berry yogurt parfait, plus classic
2. Rose Bakery Cafe
comfort food favorites like egg dishes and omelets, skillet meals, several kinds of Benedicts, breakfast sandwiches and burritos, chicken fried steak and eggs, pancakes, French toast, crêpes and waffles. Also on the menu are burgers, sandwiches,
3536 EAST COAST HIGHWAY, SUITE C, CORONA DEL MAR; 949-675-3151; ROSEBAKERYCAFE.COM
For 25 years, Rose Bakery Cafe has been a cozy spot in Corona del Mar where locals and visitors come together for great food, good vibes and community. The doughnuts are legendary, the coffee is rich and aromatic, and the breakfast burritos have earned quite a fan base.
A favorite is the California Burrito, filled with eggs, bacon, spinach, avocado, hash browns and cheese stuffed into a wheat, flour, sun-dried tomato or spinach tortilla. The huge menu also includes doughnuts;
scones, almond bear claws, cinnamon buns and other pastries, muffins, omelet platters, pancakes, grilled sandwiches and more. Coffees, lattes, teas, juices, lemonade, smoothies and milkshakes also are available.
The Rose Bakery Cafe team said, “We wouldn’t be here without the love and support of the Corona del Mar community and the many families who make us a part of their vacation traditions. You’ve made us a part of your lives, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
wraps, salads and soups, plus cocktails like mimosas and specialty coffees.
Broken Yolk Cafe prides itself on supporting the community by donating meals, holding events or supporting in other ways causes and groups like the
3. Mollies
San Diego Blood Bank, military service members on Veterans Day, the Susan G. Komen organization, Rady Children’s Hospital and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
32033 CAMINO CAPISTRANO, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; 949-240-9261; MOLLIESSANJUAN.COM
Since the 1970s, Mollies has been serving down-home American food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mollies has a huge menu, so there is something for everyone.
“We are very loved by the community. We have a lot of regulars that have come in here for many years, and now they bring their children and grandchildren. Everyone loves our staff, including our long-term staff,” said General Manager Salvador Garcia, whose dad, Salvador Garcia Sr., is the owner and night chef.
“We serve a lot of great food, country-wise and American-wise,” he said. “We have waffles, pancakes and French toast, a country breakfast, and build-yourown omelets. You get two sides so you’d better be hungry. We make our own homemade salsa and pico de gallo.
“All of our soups are homemade, and the soup is different every day. People really enjoy that we have the flexibility of offering breakfast and lunch all day long.”
The Original Broken Yolk Cafe opened in 1979 in Pacific Beach, a San Diego beach community. It has since grown into a Southern California favorite for breakfast, brunch and lunch.
Its extensive menu ranges from healthier fare — including feta avocado toast with thick-sliced artisan grain bread lightly toasted and topped with fresh avocado, arugula, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and a balsamic drizzle — to classics including huevos rancheros with a grilled corn tortilla topped with two eggs over medium and a homemade ranchero sauce, served with Mexican rice, refried beans and guacamole.
“If you ask foodies why they love the Broken Yolk, they will most likely say, ‘Their signature Benedicts and variety of menu options, mimosas (12-ounce size!), homemade sauces, soups and baked goods and, the most important, service,’ ” according to the website.
Broken Yolk was featured in 2009 on The Travel Channel’s “Man vs. Food.”
“Think of us as your daily go-to for hearty breakfasts, boozy brunches and easy lunches. We believe you can taste the difference when
2. Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; RODRIGOS.COM
The Fraser family opened its first Mexican food restaurant, Don Jose Mexican Restaurant, in Orange on July 7, 1972.
“The food was simple, fresh and authentic, made by expert cooks from Jalisco, Mexico,” according to the Rodrigo’s website.
The founders were Roderick and Patricia Fraser. “Rod” was a World War II pilot from Oregon, and Patricia was from Orange. Restaurants became the family business in the 1960s. Their oldest son, Rick, helped open locations throughout
Orange County and the Inland Empire.
In 2017, the Fraser family brought all the Don Jose restaurants under their new existing brand, Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill — a tribute to Rod.
The Sunday Champagne Brunch runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Menu options include chilaquiles, carnitas hash, huevos rancheros, huevos con chorizo and carne asada y huevos. Hot corn or flour tortillas are served upon request with the entrée. Champagne is complimentary.
you cook from scratch, so we make our sauces, batters and biscuits fresh, and crack our own cage-free eggs. We’re here to make your day
better, whether you’re in the mood for a classic or one of our over-the-top specialties,” according to its website. – Jessica Peralta
3. Toast Kitchen & Bakery
COSTA MESA, TUSTIN; TOASTKITCHENBAKERY.COM
Toast Kitchen & Bakery Partner Ed Lee says Toast is a brunch restaurant with Asian influence. The restaurant has been open for seven years.
“We have been voted by several magazines as top 10 best brunch,” he said. “We’ve also been voted by Yelp as top three in California. We make the best ube French toast.”
Toast’s ube French toast includes brioche, crème brûlée batter, ube pastry cream, blueberry, mango coconut and blueberry sauce, coconut feuilletine and ube whipped cream.
Ube, if you don’t know, is a purple yam with a sweet, nutty flavor.
Lee, who co-owns Wahoo’s Fish Taco, also founded Rooster Cafe in Costa Mesa.
“I wanted to do more community work, so that is why I sold Rooster and opened Toast,” he said. “At Toast, the team is about giving. We also have a sister restaurant called Tableau in South Coast Plaza. We donate to several nonprofit organizations.”
Charities Toast gives to include CASA, Girls Inc., Olive Crest and The Mix.
COURTESY OF BROKEN YOLK CAFE
1. In-N-Out Burger
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; IN-N-OUT.COM
In-N-Out has dominated the top of the “Best of” list in recent years, with no sign of slowing down.
Nearly 50 years ago, In-NOut opened its first Orange County hamburger stand, the 17th overall, in Santa Ana. Since then, the chain has grown to more than 400 locations, including 35 in Orange County.
Although known for its “secret menu,” among many other things, the company’s success is no secret, according to Denny Warnick, executive vice president and chief operating officer.
“Customers tell us that they really appreciate our focus on the quality of our product and friendliness of our associates,” Warnick said. “Those are at the center of the Snyder family’s simple business philosophy.”
Harry and Esther Snyder opened the first In-N-Out in Baldwin Park in 1948. Today, granddaughter Lynsi Snyder is the chain’s CEO.
Keeping it simple has been the key throughout, as InN-Out makes only burgers,
cheeseburgers, fries, shakes with real ice cream and beverages.
Hamburger patties are boned and ground from whole chucks by In-N-Out butchers; fresh produce is peeled, sliced and leafed daily on-site,
2. Hopdoddy Burger Bar
NEWPORT BEACH, TUSTIN; HOPDODDY.COM
An upscale chain out of Austin, Texas, Hopdoddy is about more than burgers. Look no further than the name, which is drawn from “hop,” as in beer, and “doddy,” a Texas nickname for beef.
In 2010, four friends came up with the idea to bring together craft beer and unique burger concoctions. Throw in local music, drop them in hipster areas, and voilà!
Higher end burgers are the stars at Hopdoddy.
Take, for example, the Buffalo Bill, a grass-fed,
pasture-raised buffalo burger with blue cheese spread, steakhouse bacon, buffalo sauce and Doddy mayo.
The burgers are all generally all-natural, “ethically sourced” Black Angus beef. Sides and drinks include hand-cut fries, salads, milkshakes, cocktails and local craft beers.
The burger chain first expanded into Orange County at Fashion Island in Newport Beach and added a location at The Market Place in Tustin. Other California locations are in El Segundo and Playa Vista.
Warnick said.
As for the recent social media claims of chicken?
“I can confirm that any social media video or story featuring a chicken sandwich at any of our restaurants is inaccurate,” Warnick said.
On the beverage front, change is afoot with non-dairy vanilla oat milk creamer as an option for coffee, plus newly added Cherry Coke and Lite Pink Lemonade, sweetened using Stevia and monk fruit. – Greg Mellen
3. Habit Burger & Grill
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; HABITBURGER.COM
Shannon Hennessy, CEO of The Habit Burger & Grill, calls her burger chain’s habitual success “the magic of The Habit — exceptional taste, a unique feel-good customer proposition and an incredible operating culture.”
Habit was acquired in 2020 by Yum, whose other company brands include Taco Bell and KFC. Since then, it has been on a growth spurt, opening 27 shops in Orange County, and 255 across the state, not to mention a fleet of catering trucks.
As part of Yum, “we are able to tap into resources
previously unavailable to us such as real estate, supply chain, packaging, technology, marketing and franchise development support,” said Ken Chan, head of digital and storytelling.
Habit’s menu has gone far beyond burgers to include steak, chicken, veggie and ahi tuna sandwiches, six kinds of salads, sides of chicken nuggets, onion rings, sweet potato fries, tempura green beans and six flavors of milkshakes.
Habit also hosts fundraisers for charities and other organizations.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
1. Chick-fil-A
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; CHICK-FIL-A.COM
Chick-fil-A’s winning streak continues; the chain was among the top three winners last year and also in 2022 in the Best Chicken category.
“It has been a pleasure to serve and be a part of the Orange County community for the last three years, and we’re so grateful for its support. As a local small business owner, my team members and I are honored to continue providing our guests with delicious food and exceptional hospitality while upholding our mission to create impactful change in our neighborhood,” said Kendall Benson, owner-operator of the Chickfil-A restaurant at Main Street and West Almond Avenue in Orange.
Chick-fil-A dominates the fast-food chicken market with more than 3,000 restaurants in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Its signature fried or grilled chicken sandwich with waffle fries, plus one of the dozen or
so different dipping sauces for the chicken, remains a favorite meal.
Serving fresh, healthy food, plus charity and community service are important values to Chick-fil-A. For the past 16 years, Chick-fil-A restaurants in the Orange County area have teamed up every summer to support Children’s Hospital of Orange County. Each year, participating restaurants donate proceeds from cookie and brownie sales to benefit the health and well-being of local children.
This year alone, Orange Countyarea Chick-fil-A restaurants have raised more than $40,000 to support this cause. Local Chick-fil-A restaurants also donate surplus food to local nonprofits through the Chickfil-A Shared Table program to help feed those in need.
– Amy Bentley
2. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; RAISINGCANES.COM
Who can’t love a restaurant named after the founder’s beloved Labrador retriever?
Raising Cane’s founder and entrepreneur
Todd Graves originally planned to call his new restaurant “Sockeye’s” after the salmon he fished in Alaska, where he’d worked as a commercial fisherman. Instead, Graves took a friend’s advice and named his eatery after his pup, Raising Cane. The yellow Lab frequented the construction site of Graves’ first restaurant, established in an old, renovated building at Louisiana State University.
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers focuses on chicken fingers, specifically. If you order a sandwich combo, the sandwich will be made from chicken fingers on a bun with lettuce and Cane’s special secret sauce, plus you’ll get crinkle-cut fries and a drink.
Graves was named No. 28 in the Top 100 CEOs in the U.S. by Glassdoor, Restaurateur of the Year by the Louisiana Restaurant Association, and Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year.
3. Epic Wings N’ Things
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; EPICWINGSNTHINGS.COM
With locations in Anaheim, Mission Viejo and Santa Ana, Epic Wings N’ Things has been a favorite chicken wings eatery for more than 40 years. Epic Wings has been family-owned and -operated since 1982. The Sacco family, which originally called the restaurants Wings N’ Things, is said to have been the first to bring Buffalo wings to the West Coast.
Epic Wings operates 33 locations in California, Arizona, Texas and North Carolina. About its Best of OC placement this year, Reggie Koch, a manager at the Santa Ana store, said, “We are extremely grateful and honored. I just wanted to express our gratitude.”
The menu features award-winning family recipes, including fresh, traditional wings; tenderloin strips; pizza sticks; fries; salads; freshly made breadsticks; and house-made sauces and dips. Buffalo sauces range from mild and medium to hot and “atomic,” and other sauce flavors include original barbecue, garlic parmesan, honey barbecue, lemon pepper and sweet chili.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST CRAFT BREWERY
1. Stereo Brewing
950 S. VIA RODEO, PLACENTIA; 714-993-3390; STEREOBREWING.COM
Stereo Brewing has been a Placentia staple since 2016, and its appeal is rooted in its owners’ love of music, beer and people.
The brewery is family- and brewer-owned, says Amanda Smets, who operates Stereo Brewing with her husband, Rick Smets.
Rick has been a professional brewer for more than 12 years — serving as the head brewer of Left Coast until 2009, when he became a brewer for Firestone Walker, according to the Stereo Brewing website. Before beginning his career in brewing, Rick spent his time going to Grateful Dead shows and collecting vinyl.
“We are a taproom and production facility, proudly crafting award-winning beers enjoyed onsite and distributed to local bars and restaurants,” Amanda said. “Our commitment to quality has been recognized nationally, with six medals from the prestigious Great American Beer Festival. We offer a wide range of styles, from our flagship Perfect Day West Coast IPA to sours,
2. Brewery X
stouts and more.”
She said Stereo Brewing also is a vibrant community hub.
“We host regular events like live music, trivia and fundraisers, cultivating a loyal following who appreciate our
3191 EAST LA PALMA AVE., ANAHEIM; BREWERY-X.COM
Brewery X prides itself on providing an authentic, elevated experience for guests, according to Chief Brewing Officer Trevor Walls.
“From the vibrant tastes and flavors of our beer and seltzer to the stimulating experience of walking into one of our taprooms, Brewery X strives to make everyone’s experience something that they can’t stop talking about,” Walls said.
Brewery X is the reigning champion of the Alpha King Challenge, which goes to the brewery that makes the best,
most drinkable hoppy beer in the world.
“The Brewery X team is very energetic and dynamic,” Walls said. “They help drive the innovation and growth of the brand, which allows Brewery X to be seen by so many people across Southern California. The Brewery X team has a lot of fun, and that energy is infectious to our community.”
In addition to stopping in for a pint, patrons can enjoy live music most weekend nights and special events like trivia, according to the website.
welcoming atmosphere,” she said.
Amanda said that in addition to a large lineup of beer, Stereo offers HI-FI hard seltzers and hard seltzer slushies, all made in-house.
“The most popular being
our Orange & Pineapple — inspired by Cactus Cooler,” she said.
The brewery has a rotation of food trucks and pop-ups serving Thursday-Sunday.
The owners of GameCraft Brewing invite guests to share in their love of beer and games.
“We’re on a mission to celebrate both. Come join the GameCraft crew on an ultra-steam-powered warp through a galaxy of malt and a cluster of hops. Complete an Apollo Mission to visit a comet at its solar equinox. Enjoy our video-wall mosaic of livestreams while absorbing hand-crafted fusion food,” the website says.
Guests can taste the latest
brews, play board games or attend a trivia night, and try some food — which is mostly house-made, from the beer ketchup to the beer-infused flatbread, according to the brewery’s website.
“We feature our own beers, guest beverages and modern, fusion, pub-style food from our full kitchen. We are casual and we encourage conversations and social interaction while playing tabletop and traditional games,” according to the website.
LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST DATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT
1. Trevor’s at the Tracks
26701 VERDUGO ST., SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, 949-493-9593, TREVORSATTHETRACKS.COM
Nestled in a historic building in the heart of downtown San Juan Capistrano between Los Rios Street, Mission San Juan Capistrano and the train tracks, Trevor’s at the Tracks already touches all the bases as a date-night location.
Add in its “locally acquired, globally inspired” menu and live local music seven nights a week, and the restaurant is a grand slam.
“We are well into our eighth year of business and have had the great fortune of being on the front end of a cultural shift/reawakening of San Juan Capistrano,” said owner Trevor Baird. “It has really become a destination for diners ...”
Endeavoring to bridge the dating divide, Baird said, “We always aim to
be warm and welcoming. We know it is a tall order to satisfy everyone, but we certainly try by having a menu that touches on all dietary restrictions, has farm-fresh healthy options, rich steaks, sustainable seafood and a unique bar menu with both alcoholic and nonalcoholic choices.”
Baird added that about half the menu contains shareable items.
“We foster and encourage a shared experience at Trevor’s, which makes for a fun date night,” Baird said.
The romantic downtown is right there for a perfect pre- or post-meal stroll for the perfect pairing for a great date night.
This is no average golf course restaurant or 19th hole. The regulars at picturesque Arroyo Trabuco know the magic of O’Neill’s Bar and Grill, opened in 2004 with the course, and now the secret is out.
Spread out over 4,600 square feet, the spacious restaurant features some of the most bucolic views in Orange County, with the picturesque golf links and Trabuco Creek blending into the Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo.
Executive Chef Tom Capretz came from the Montage Resorts, and restaurant manager Jose Torres had 20 years with Ritz-Carlton.
The dinner menu has filet mignon, mahi mahi and a not-to-be-missed brick chicken dish.
Over the winter, the management overhauled the patio, adding a retractable cover and louvers that can be adjusted to let in the sun or shut out inclement weather.
With the restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, your date night can be any time of day.
3. Buddha’s Favorite
634 LIDO PARK DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH, 949-723-4203, BUDDHASFAVORITE.COM
Relax in the softly lit, romantic patio overlooking a finger of Balboa Bay from Lido Park Drive, or tuck into the cozy sushi bar, and you are already on your way to a date night to remember.
Opened in 2000 by Masaki “Yoshi” Yoshitsuka, Buddha’s Favorite quickly drew a reputation as a hidden gem in the Newport Beach dining scene.
In 2019, former president of the Newport Harbor Culinary Foundation Nicole Paskerian and her husband, Matt, bought the restaurant and have continued its reputation as a “favorite.”
The restaurant continues the traditions brought over by Yoshitsuka, who became a master chef in Japanese Kaiseki cuisine.
The restaurant bills itself as “a place where traditional and authentic Japanese cuisines merge with innovative and creative dishes not found anywhere else.”
It also continues as an entertaining spot where the tight quarters can’t help but draw people together.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
1. Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; LAZYDOGRESTAURANTS.COM
Lazy Dog, a previous winner in the outdoor dining and family-friendly categories, is honored again this year. Lazy Dog is well-known for welcoming canine friends on its outdoor dining patios. O.C. locations include Irvine, Brea and Orange. Other locations are in the Inland Empire and California as well as several other states including Nevada, Colorado and Texas.
Chris Simms, the chain’s chief executive officer and founder, opened the first Lazy Dog restaurant in Huntington Beach in 2003 with his father. Simms sought to create a casual restaurant that reminded him of the good times he had spent in the Rocky Mountains with his family, enjoying warm, rustic hospitality.
“We want to thank our guests and their special fourlegged friends for voting for us as one of the best dogfriendly restaurants in Orange County. We love serving up mouthwatering handmade meals for everyone, including our furry visitors,” Simms
said. “Our pup menu, with delicious options like grilled chicken or hamburger patties on rice with veggies in bowls, lets dogs enjoy mealtime right alongside their owners on our patios. Dogs always get a
2. Surf Dog’s Sports Grill
5932 WARNER AVE., HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714-846-5700; SURFDOGSHB.COM
Surf Dog’s Sports Grill, a favorite sports bar in Huntington Beach, is in its 11th year serving ice cold draft and bottled beers, cocktails, pizza and wings inside and on its dog-friendly patio. Owner “Joe Surfdog” has created a friendly neighborhood bar that offers a laid-back atmosphere. “It’s a comfortable and relaxing space, perfect for hanging out with family and friends, old and new,” he said. Large group events, sports teams, birthday parties and other celebrations are welcome.
Surf Dog’s Sports Grill
offers live music most Friday and Saturday nights, as well as 17 large TV screens and a giant 150-inch TV wall for big games and UFC bouts. There are weekday happy hours; daily specials include bottomless mimosas on Sundays.
The bar features a wide variety of beverages with 14 drafts and more than 25 bottled beers and ciders; white and red wines; cocktails; and Hollywood-themed mixed drinks. The menu features appetizers, salads, burgers, hot dogs, seafood, sandwiches, snacks, desserts and more.
complimentary bowl of water, too.
“At Lazy Dog, we’re all about creating fun, memorable experiences for the whole family and community,” he said.
3. La Vida Cantina
Lazy Dog is proud to support local dog rescues by hosting fundraisers where 15 percent of sales go back to the organizations
– Jessica Peralta
1870 HARBOR BLVD., COSTA MESA; 949-612-2349; LAVIDACANTINA.COM
La Vida Cantina is a Best of OC winner again, having previously been recognized in the outdoor dining, happy hour and bar categories. (It won the last this year.) La Vida Cantina offers a large space to enjoy drinks and a meal, including the expansive outdoor area, which is dogfriendly and features five fire pits under two large palapas.
“Anytime your business is recognized in the ‘Best of’ categories, it’s a great honor that I share with my staff, and it goes to show how far we go to make sure that everybody, including
dogs, feels welcome here, and leaves having had a great time,” said owner Alex Petrosian.
The restaurant offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring premium tequilas, a variety of margaritas and uniquely crafted martinis. Food specialties include the La Vida Burrito, which includes a choice of meat (freshly marinated carnitas, grilled chicken, al pastor, asada and/or shrimp), with salsa fresca, jack cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and topped with red or green sauce.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST DOUGHNUT SHOP
1. Mag’s Donuts
IRVINE; MAGSDONUTS.COM
With two locations in Irvine and more than 20 types of doughnuts to choose from, Mag’s Donuts is built on family and community.
“Mag’s Donuts & Bakery is a donut shop in Irvine that has all the classic donuts — like raised, cake and old fashion — and delicious new items like Nutella cronuts and maple bacon cronuts that are baked fresh daily. We take pride in serving the community of Irvine since 1980,” according to the shop’s website.
The family matriarch, Yean Chhaing Yen, heads the shop. She immigrated to America with her husband, Ning Yen, and newborn daughter in 1979. The Yen family escaped the events of the Cambodian Civil War. “The Yen family came to the U.S. with nothing more than the clothes on their backs and the hopes of achieving the American dream,” according to the website.
Yean and Ning worked multiple jobs. Yean worked at Mag’s Donuts during the day and was a seamstress
2. The Donuttery
at night, while Ning was a janitor during the day and a doughnut baker at Mag’s at night. Yean and Ning eventually saved enough money to purchase Mag’s in the early 1980s, when the original owner retired,
The Donuttery has been making doughnuts in Huntington Beach since 1970. According to its website, it’s known for taking classic flavors and elevating them to the artisanal plane — delivering complex, balanced and consistent yeast-raised and cake doughnuts.
“Since the beginning, our goal has been to create a range of unique and recognizable donuts by perfecting techniques for enhancing the taste and texture profiles of doughs. Every donut is handmade with passion and
craftsmanship brought forth by donuteurs with over a hundred years of combined baking experience. Our goal is to continue to create donuts that innovate on easily relatable flavors that will scratch a nostalgic itch for fried dough perfection,” the doughnut maker’s website says.
The Donuttery has also developed vegan options, plant-based versions of its classic favorites. The store’s gluten-free doughnuts took years to develop and are prepared with organic flours mixed in-house.
according to the site. Doughnuts include Apple Fritter Light, filled with real bits of apple and flavored with glaze and cinnamon; Bear Claw, filled with cinnamon sugar and glazed; and Old Fashioned Maple,
3. OliBoli Donuts
including a fried outer ring with soft and cakey texture and maple glaze, to name a few.
Mag’s also offers breakfast sandwiches and a variety of drinks.
– Jessica Peralta
135 W. FIRST ST., TUSTIN; 877-646-1380; OLIBOLI.COM
Open since October 2018, Oliboli is owned by Victor and Brooke DesPrez, Orange County natives and high school sweethearts. Along with their daughter, Hailey, and son, Hunter, they have created a business built on family values and simple ingredients, according to their website.
“The meaning of family extends to the entire Oliboli crew. Every staff member’s success is a vital component in this donut dream machine. The Oliboli team is made up of creative thinkers, problem-solvers and serious
donut and coffee lovers. We seek integrity and thoughtful process in everything we do, and feel honored to be able to create this space to share with everyone who passes through our doors,” according to the website.
Oliboli uses biologically active, complex whole grains and stone-milled flour in its dough-making process. The doughnuts are hand-shaped, glazed and garnished with fresh fruit jams and handpicked herbs.
The doughnut shop offers specials every month along with its regular menu.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Mag’s Donut and Bakery employee Jeff Keo displays some of the shop’s colorful offerings.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
1. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; HANDELSICECREAM.COM
With a new CEO and a new storefront in Irvine, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt continues to flourish and grow in Orange County and earn raves from readers.
Zach Leffers, one of the company owners, announced that Jennifer Schuler has moved into the top spot in the company and is managing its growth and evolution through a tough era in the food service industry.
“She is helping maintain the integrity of the brand and staying true to Alice Handel’s vision with all the headwinds facing us,” Leffers said.
The new location gives Handel’s eight in Orange County. Handel’s continues to add seasonal flavors — peach was a huge hit in summer, replacing the Easter carrot cake — and every store
always has about 48 flavors on hand.
Handel’s has been made fresh daily at each store since 1945, when Alice Handel began selling ice cream in Youngstown, Ohio.
Leffers said each time the company tries to winnow its more than 200 flavors, customers clamor to bring back their favorites, such as peanut butter and jelly and lemon bar.
Handel’s also continues to hit the charity and nonprofit fundraising circuit, sending its mobile units to schools and community events.
Leffers says his company prides itself on “bigger scoop sizes” with top-shelf ingredients.
“When the biggest complaint is the serving is too much, that’s a great business to be in,” he said.
– Greg Mellen
2. Yogurtland
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; YOGURTLAND.COM
From season to season and day to day, you never know what will be available at Yogurtland. Maybe chocolate chip with brown butter, hazelnut lava cake covered in strawberry, a cherry sorbet, or, perhaps, a plant-based flavor like cinnamon oatmeal. Then again, you can just let your imagination run wild and build your own original concoction.
At any time, you are likely to find at least 16 flavors and 30 toppings at a store. They are constantly in rotation through 19 franchises in Orange County.
Steve Chang opened his first store in 2006 in Fullerton and has been in growth mode ever since, with stores in 10 states and countries ranging from the Middle East to Indonesia.
To date, Yogurtland’s team of “flavorologists” has created more than 250 flavors, including a foreverchanging menu of seasonal, holiday and “mystery” flavors. The team is always in search of fresh and vibrant produce and ingredients.
3. Golden Spoon
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS, GOLDENSPOONUS.COM
Like catching a wave early, the original Golden Spoon rode the leading edge of the frozen yogurt craze that swept the U.S. in the 1980s. The franchise evolved from Jeff Barnes’ Tustin Yogurt and Things health food store — and continues to grow.
With Americans in search of low- and no-fat alternatives and lighter, more vibrant flavors, yogurt, particularly the frozen kind, became the rage.
From the humble roots of Barnes’ storefront, Golden Spoon has grown to 11 locations in Orange County and 120 internationally, including franchises in Japan, the Philippines and Qatar.
With more than 80 proprietary recipes and a dizzying array of toppings, the company continues to evolve along with dietary tastes and restrictions.
The company says, “Golden Spoon has spent years earning its reputation as a premium non-fat, low-calorie frozen treat that tastes like ice cream and promotes a healthy lifestyle.”
» BEST HAPPY HOUR
1. Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; RODRIGOS.COM
Happy hour at Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill happens Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. in the bar. Drink specials include house margaritas, domestic 16-ounce drafts, well drinks and wine. Appetizers are fried pickled jalapeños, Sonoran dogs, chimichangas, nachos and potato skins.
“This is one of my favorite Mexican restaurants and quite honestly I am never disappointed eating here. Service was outstanding and the food was great as usual. Large portions and reasonable prices and nice atmosphere. Highly recommend this restaurant,” said a Yelp reviewer commenting on the Laguna Hills location.
The story of Rodrigo’s began when the Fraser family opened their first Mexican food restaurant, Don Jose Mexican Restaurant, in 1972, according to the Rodrigo’s website. The founders were Roderick and Patricia Fraser. “Rod” was a World War II veteran pilot from Oregon and Patricia was from Orange.
2. La Vida Cantina
Restaurants became the family business in the 1960s. In 2017, the Fraser family brought all the Don Jose restaurants under their new existing brand, Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill — a tribute to Rod.
1870 HARBOR BLVD., COSTA MESA; 949-612-2349; LAVIDACANTINA.COM
Happy hour is on at La Vida Cantina.
Owner Alex Petrosian says the restaurant/bar is working on revamping its Taco Tuesday promotions.
A recently announced promotion, according to Petrosian, “is our giant margarita — perfect for groups of three to four — as well as our happy hour, five days a week, that gets all margaritas and all appetizers half price.”
That margarita comes in plenty of choices – just check out the menu on La
Vida Cantina’s website.
The bar menu also includes plenty of tequila choices and “uniquely crafted specialty drinks.”
Happy hour runs all day Monday and 3 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Petrosian said the Mexican restaurant and bar stands out with its very large outdoor patio containing its own bar and firepits under oversized palapas.
This is the third strait year La Vida Cantina has been recognized by Orange County Register readers.
“Absolutely amazing experience. From the service to the food quality and the ambiance, [it was] excellent. Our waiter was super helpful and checked up on
us regularly. The food came out super fast and was so delicious. Highly recommend this place,” said a Yelp reviewer about the Tustin location.
– Jessica Peralta
3. Joey Newport Beach
453 NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-826-5699; JOEYRESTAURANTS.COM
Joey CEO Jeff Fuller started his career flipping burgers, washing dishes and sweeping floors.
“It’s called paying your dues, learning from the ground up and understanding what success takes,” Joey’s website says. “If there’s a secret, it’s hard work, unwavering commitment to the customer and assembling the very best people,” Fuller says on the site.
Fuller learned from his family’s successful businesses before going out on his own and opening the first Joey
restaurant in 1992. Today, there are 30 Joey restaurants, primarily in Canadian cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa and Vancouver, but also in Southern California spots Manhattan Beach and Woodland Hills and, of course, Newport Beach.
Joey offers happy hour daily from 3 to 5 p.m. and from 9 p.m. until closing on Sundays. Discounted cocktails include the Super Sonic Gin + Tonic, the Super Stoked Jack + Coke, as well as beer and wine.
LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT
1. Fratellino’s by Cesar Lomeli
600 S. BREA BLVD., BREA; 714-255-9100; FRATELLINOS.COM
Fratellino’s by Cesar Lomeli is a repeat, multiyear winner in Best of OC’s Best Italian Restaurant category. Fratellino’s also was a threetime “Italian Silver” winner at the Southern California Restaurant Writers’ 28th, 29th and 30th annual Restaurant Awards.
Fratellino’s is well-known for its traditional Italian food, elegant interior décor and wall murals that offer the feeling of dining in Italy. The restaurant is also known for its hot dinner takeout party trays and for being a strong community supporter, partnering with schools and nonprofit organizations to provide food for teams, fundraisers and gift cards for raffles, as well as other types of assistance.
“As a family-owned restaurant, we at Fratellino’s take immense pride in being recognized by the O.C. community as one of the best Italian restaurants in the county,” said Cesar Lomeli, who owns the restaurant with wife Gabriela. “Since 2000, we have sought to provide
a gathering place for our customers to come together to celebrate with friends and family, meet with co-workers, or relax and unwind over classic Italian recipes within our iconic dining room laden with Italian countryside murals.”
Lomeli announced that Fratellino’s will open a new location in an express-kitchen format in the city of Orange by later this fall, marking a new chapter of serving the restaurant’s familiar favorites
Capone’s Italian Cucina has been serving authentic Italian food for many years. Family-run Capone’s uses fresh ingredients in a cozy, family-friendly setting. The extensive menu includes classic Italian dishes as well as innovative flavors created by chef and owner Dino Ferraro, who shares his passion for cooking via generations of family traditions.
Ferraro’s culinary career began when he was 16 and he started making pizzas and lasagnas in his mom’s kitchen
for family and friends. Since then, he cooked all over the world before settling back in Orange County.
Guests at Capone’s can create their own pasta dishes with a variety of pasta types, scratch-made sauces, vegetables, meats and seafood.
Meals can be paired with a rich wine or creative drink from the bar. Guests also are advised to save room for dessert and treat themselves to the homemade tiramisu and cannolis, which are made from scratch daily.
3. Buon Gusto
in a fast-casual setting. The address is 3436 E. Chapman Ave. “We can’t wait to have our O.C. family pay us a visit at our new home,” Lomeli said.
4911 WARNER AVE., SUITE 109, HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714-846-2600; BUONGUSTOHB.COM
Buon Gusto is a popular neighborhood Italian eatery that takes pride in being a great place to meet with friends, have a party or treat yourself to a casual Italian dinner.
The expansive menu showcases plenty of favorites in the entrée section, plus a large variety of salads, antipasti, gourmet calzones, pizzas, soups, paninis, hot and cold sub sandwiches, veal, chicken and house specialties.
Diners also can create their own pizza.
Aftin J. of Monterey Park wrote a terrific review of Buon Gusto on Yelp: “Nice spot to visit if you’re in the area, large restaurant good for large groups and a nice heated patio. The menu is ridiculously filled with all your favorite Italian items and then some. A decent wine selection and a good bar. I went for the classic spaghetti and meatball and I was not disappointed. Sauce is delicious and meatballs were tender. Service was good and fair prices for the portion you receive.”
– Amy Bentley
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
1. Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; RODRIGOS.COM
In a region where Mexican restaurants proliferate, Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill has flourished and grown by preserving its traditions.
Family-owned and into a third generation, Rodrigo’s — begun in 1972 in Orange as Don Jose Restaurant — was rebranded in 2018 in honor of founder Roderick Fraser. Today, it continues to lean into family values and the recipes of the Jalisco chefs of its early years.
“Our restaurant stands out due to our commitment to authentic, family-inspired recipes passed down through generations,” said Rod Fraser, CEO of Rod Fraser Enterprises. “We use traditional cooking methods and source the freshest ingredients.”
Among the perennial favorites are dishes such as the signature Ultimate fajitas, with a combo of grilled steak, chicken and shrimp with veggies, and the Baja fish tacos.
There is also a full bar with a dozen handmade, Mexicaninspired cocktails blended
2. Avila’s El Ranchito
with fine tequilas, liqueurs and fresh produce.
Now grown to 10 locations, including six in Orange County, Rodrigo’s strives to maintain the same experience, and taste, wherever customers go.
“We have standardized
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; AVILASELRANCHITO.COM
Despite the permanent loss of its popular Avila’s El Ranchito in Huntington Beach, the casual dining, family-owned chain still draws raves, in addition to condolences, from readers and supporters.
The family announced the closure “with great sadness,” on Avila’s Instagram page.
The Avilas still maintain 12 restaurants, 10 in Orange County. Run by different members of the Avila clan, the El Ranchitos are the least chain-like of chain restaurants, as each bears the particular vibe of its location
and owner.
Linking them all are the Guanajuato, Mexico, recipes and preparation methods developed by Mama Avila when the flagship opened in 1966.
Whether it’s the fajitas, crispy tacos or traditional meals, as Mama said, “They should taste exactly the same every time.”
Signing off from Huntington Beach, the Avilas wrote, “This is not goodbye forever. … We hope that you come dine with us at one of our other Avila’s El Ranchito locations.”
recipes and cooking methods that all locations follow meticulously to ensure consistency in every dish we serve,” Fraser said. “Additionally, we use a centralized supply chain to source the same highquality ingredients for all our
restaurants.”
Topping it all off is secondto-none service. “Beyond our cuisine, we offer a vibrant and welcoming family atmosphere complemented by the exceptional,” Fraser said.
– Greg Mellen
3. Mario’s Mexican Food & Cantina
18603 MAIN ST., HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714-842-5811; MARIOSHB.COM
The popularity of this modest, family-style Huntington Beach cantina goes way beyond the commercial.
The commercial? It’s on the eatery’s website and features Gerardo, waitresses Layla and Jasmine, and Martin, the bartender, inviting visitors in, ending with a shot of sizzling fajitas that should just about close the deal.
Mario’s Mexican Food and Cantina, known locally as Mario’s Five Points, continues the tradition of Mario and Consuelo Valenzuela, who
dropped their life savings into a hamburger joint in Five Points Plaza that would become Mario’s namesake eatery.
A native of Coahuila, Mexico, Valenzuela was head cook at La Paz Restaurant in Fullerton, then chef at Señor Rubens Restaurant in Fountain Valley, before taking the leap.
At Mario’s you can taste all your favorites, plus Mexican pizza, seafood combos and those hearty, sizzling fajitas. And don’t ignore the full bar and Martin’s generous margaritas.
LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
1. Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza Store
ALISO VIEJO, NEWPORT BEACH, IRVINE; SGTPEPPS.COM
Sgt. Pepperoni’s is a previous winner in the best pizza category. “We are thrilled, honored and humbled by the recognition of readers of the Orange County Register,” said Jeff Roberts, one of the chain’s partners. “As a family-owned, local Orange County business and family of team members, we measure our success with these accolades,” he said.
Roberts and his three partners grew up near the original Newport Beach location of Sgt. Pepperoni’s, which opened in 1976, and ate there regularly. In 2013, they bought the restaurant and have expanded to two others.
Roberts said the Sgt. Pepperoni’s team exemplifies everything a small, familyowned business dreams of being: “dedicated, hardworking and bringing love and spirit to everything they do.”
“We are passionate and committed to hand-created, in-house perfection in every menu item we serve. From
2. Riip Beer & Pizzeria
our hand-tossed pizzas to our freshly made sauces to our hand-grated cheese, everything contributes to an amazing finished product,” Roberts said.
In addition to offering highquality pizza and desserts, Sgt. Pepperoni’s remains
Riip Beer & Pizzeria was founded by two brothersin-law who began with a 20-gallon home brewing setup in their garage in Huntington Beach and a 1931 Helms Bakery coach to deliver their unique craft brews. They expanded their popular business and currently operate both a tasting room in Sunset Beach and the pizzeria in southeast Huntington Beach.
“We’re stoked to hear that we’ve landed in the top three for the Readers Choice awards in Best of Orange County 2024. Huge
thanks to our incredible customers, community and our hard-working crew for making this possible,” said co-founder Ryan Riip.
“We’ve wholeheartedly embraced the Southern California lifestyle, blending our passion for craft beer and great food with the laid-back vibes of surfing, skating and beach life. Our atmosphere truly captures the essence of SoCal culture, inviting everyone to be a part of our vibrant community. We’re immensely grateful for the love and support we’ve received.”
committed to serving the community by partnering with local groups for pizza fundraising events, donating Lego kits to children at Children’s Hospital of Orange County, and providing free pizza to local police and first responders to thank them
3. Tony’s Little Italy
for their service, as some examples. Said Roberts: “We are a people business; great people serving from the heart to a community of people who seem to can’t get enough.”
1808 N. PLACENTIA AVE., PLACENTIA; 714-528-2159; TONYSLITTLEITALY.COM
Tony’s Little Italy has been a family-owned and -operated favorite pizza restaurant in Placentia since 1978. Founder Tony Manzella, a native of Palermo, Italy, opened his first pizza restaurant in Chicago when he was 21 years old. He and his wife, Rosalie, ran their Chicago restaurant for more than 20 years, then continued the tradition at their new eatery in Placentia.
Tony Manzella passed away in 2021; today, his family carries on the tradition and keeps the pizza ovens hot.
“Thanks to my customers,
they know good food. I work here every day for 15 hours to make the very best food I can. I truly appreciate the customers,” said the founders’ son, also named Tony.
Pizzas are made fresh to order; the pizza dough is made on the premises. Tony’s is well-known for its authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Topping offerings include sausage, pepperoni, meatball, chicken, anchovies, Canadian bacon, pineapple, mushrooms, spinach, olives, green pepper, onion and garlic.
– Amy Bentley
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
1. King’s Fish House
HUNTINGTON BEACH, LAGUNA HILLS, ORANGE; KINGSFISHHOUSE.COM
King’s Fish House is family-owned and -operated by King’s Seafood Company, based in Costa Mesa, according to Joel Kennedy, senior director of marketing and communications.
“Co-founded by cousins Sam and Jeff King, whose fathers started building restaurants together in 1945, the company handpicks, cuts and supplies the highest quality product available to its own restaurants through its exclusive seafood and meat distribution company,” Kennedy said.
King’s Fish House is committed to being the community’s first choice for seafood.
“It’s a commitment that stretches back three generations, to be precise,” Kennedy said. “We leverage decades of strong relationships, foraging for the best and exclusively supplying our restaurants with the highest quality of seafood — often locally, always responsibly.”
Kennedy said the menu changes daily and features
2. Water Grill
seasonal catches, a large selection of oysters, sushi and shellfish, depending on the season.
“We believe in putting the guest first and delivering a consistently excellent service and environment,” said Kennedy, who added that it’s
3300 BRISTOL ST., COSTA MESA; 949-208-7060; WATERGRILL.COM
Opening in 2016, Water Grill South Coast Plaza features the brand’s largest footprint with incredible depth, theming and layers, according to Joel Kennedy, the senior director of marketing and communications. This includes six private dining room options that can accommodate more than 200 guests at a time.
“Inspired by the seasons, Water Grill is a destination for guests to enjoy the first catch of the season and a deep variety of fish, lobsters, crabs, oysters and shellfish
on a robust menu that changes daily,” said Kennedy, who added that the space features a raw bar and saltwater tanks, enhancing the straight-from-the-water culinary experience.
Water Grill is owned and operated by King’s Seafood Company, based in Costa Mesa.
“Our carefully selected and highly discerning crew members share our passion for delivering extraordinary dining experiences through an unwavering devotion to seafood and service,” Kennedy said.
humbling to receive “best of” awards from the communities they are in and serve.
“We’re honored to be recognized for our seafood again by The Orange County Register,” Kennedy said.
“Our No. 1 focus is listening to the voices of our guests
3. Market Broiler
and delivering an experience of high quality, comfort and value. We strive to be a destination where guests can come together for holidays, celebrations, special occasions and everything in between.”
– Jessica Peralta
HUNTINGTON BEACH, ORANGE; MARKETBROILER.COM
Market Broiler opened in Riverside in 1989 and has become known for its fresh fish and chef-inspired specialty seafood dishes, according to public relations representative Hilary Lapke.
“Market Broiler has established itself as a staple in California dining,” said Lapke, who added that Market Broiler has implemented a companywide sustainable seafood program in partnership with the Seafood for the Future organization.
“This partnership has led to the evaluation and
approval of over 20 of our seafood dishes, ensuring they meet high sustainability standards,” Lapke said. “By promoting stewardship of our world’s oceans and encouraging guests to enjoy the health benefits of seafood, they demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and customer well-being.”
Lapke said Market Broiler recently celebrated its 35th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to provide exceptional dining experiences.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Parmesan Crusted San Dabs
» BEST STEAKHOUSE
1. Mastro’s Steakhouse/Mastro’s Ocean Club
COSTA MESA, NEWPORT BEACH; MASTROSRESTAURANTS.COM
Mastro’s may have built its reputation as a steakhouse, but since it added Ocean Club to its name, seafood towers have become real eyecatchers. Custom-made tableside and ranging to just about any height and price you desire, the oyster, lobster tail and crab legs-laden creations over ice are often the envy of the room.
That said, Mastro’s is not a “Where’s the beef?” establishment. It is all there, big and bold and sizzling, from wet-aged, USDA steak cuts from a 6-ounce petit filet to a 36-ounce porterhouse. Also available are pure Kobe beef cuts from the Hyogo Prefecture, as well as Japanese and American Wagyu.
On the seafood side, there are Alaskan king crab legs, lobster tails and sea scallops, plus a sushi menu.
Soups, salads, vegetables and potatoes are all separate.
There is live music nightly, and Mastro’s enforces a “strict upscale dress code,” which forbids beachwear, gym attire,
The bone-in ribeye at Mastro’s.
hoodies, jerseys or ball caps.
Besides its two Orange County locations, the company operates Mastro’s
2. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
ANAHEIM AND IRVINE; RUTHSCHRIS.COM
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is synonymous with fine, custom and wet-aged cuts of beef.
Heck, it’s in the name. Cooking a steak is easy. However, a perfect meltin-your-mouth steak, as opposed to the shoe leather kind, is something else altogether.
Following founder Ruth Fertel’s method, as it has for nearly 60 years, Ruth’s Chris uses patented 1,800-degree broiling and delivers the meat on sizzling, 500-degree plates with a dab of butter and chopped parsley. Precise timing and high-
quality meat “guarantee each USDA Prime beef cut we serve is cooked to perfection,” according to the company.
Steaks are individually cut, ranging from 8-ounce filets to 40-ounce porterhouse and tomahawk chops between 1.5 and 2 inches thick. The wetaging process packs steaks in their own juices in air-tight containers and refrigerates them for three to four weeks. Wet aging intensifies the beef’s natural flavors and aromas.
Ruth’s Chris also serves appetizers, salads, soups and signature sides reflecting the chain’s New Orleans heritage.
Steakhouses in Beverly Hills; San Francisco; Chicago; Houston; Washington, D.C.; and New York City; and has
Mastro’s Ocean Club locations in Malibu, Boston and Miami, among other spots. – Greg Mellen
3. Outback Steakhouse
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; OUTBACK.COM
Ever since waltzing its Matilda over in 1988, this Aussie-inspired, Yankfounded steakhouse has been a bloomin’ success story across the country — especially with readers in Orange County, where there are a half dozen Outback locations.
Home of the popular Bloomin’ Onion, which was introduced in 1988, Outback serves the trademark appetizer more than 8 million times a year, accounting for 25% of appetizers ordered, according to the company. And of course, there are
the steaks: nine signature cuts, ranging from petit filets to 22-ounce porterhouses, all with Aussie slang nicknames attached. Steaks can be combined with shrimp, lobster and, of course, soups and other sides.
For all its Aussie-ish appellations, co-founder Chris Sullivan said, in a story for Kaufman Entrepreneurs, “our menu creations are inspired by Australia, reminiscent of Australia, and bear Aussie names, but are not authentic recipes.”
Regardless, our readers still believe Outback is a place to have a “G’day.”
COURTESY OF MASTRO’S
1. Sushi on Fire
301 MAIN ST., NO. 103, HUNTINGTON BEACH; SUSHIONFIRE.COM
Established in 2005, Sushi on Fire is known for serving excellent Japanese fusion food and sushi, as well as having excellent table service from a friendly staff. The downtown Huntington Beach location is a well-loved, lively spot with an attractive dog-friendly outdoor patio that’s not only great for patio dining but also is an ideal spot for viewing the sunset over dinner and people-watching, as the patio has good street frontage. It’s known as the go-to sushi place for locals as well as outof-town visitors. Sushi on Fire also has a second location on 2nd Street in Long Beach’s Belmont Shore area.
Every item is cooked with authentic Japanese ingredients and special recipes. “Sushi on Fire is about good food, fun and happiness,” says the restaurant’s website.
The menu offers a wide variety of items, including appetizers, carpaccio, salads, sushi, sashimi, ramen, fried rice and teriyaki entrées; a hibachi filet mignon dinner served with vegetables
2. Yama Sushi & Grill
and steamed or fried rice; tempura; desserts; and hand rolls, cut rolls and special rolls. Sushi items served à la carte come with miso soup; the menu also features vegan and vegetarian items. Drinks
27782 VISTA DEL LAGO, C-22, MISSION VIEJO; 949-716-9262; YAMASUSHIONTHELAKE.COM
Established in 2006, Yama — which means “mountain” in Japanese — Sushi & Grill is another multiyear repeat winner in Best of OC’s Best Sushi category.
Yama Sushi & Grill is located in the heart of Lake Mission Viejo on the waterfront, offering a nice view for a romantic dinner. Diners enjoy a variety of fish from Japan prepared daily. Also on the menu are fresh oysters, giant clams, tuna, scallops, salmon and a variety of other fish. Yama
Sushi & Grill also offers 45 different types of premium sake from Japan. Sake tasting is available, and diners can enjoy a sake-tasting dinner that includes a full-course meal and lots of sake, if they’d like.
Lovell S. from Huntington Beach recently raved about Yama on Yelp: “Always service with a smile and caring attitude ... food is delish ... menu is versatile ... good vibes all around ... our favorite place at the lake with a view!!!”
include wine, beer and — of course — hot or cold sake. Lots of customers have raved about Sushi on Fire on social media, including diner Susan R., who wrote on Trip Advisor, “BEST SUSHI EVER!
3. U Sushi & Grill
Family from Texas visiting family and we went to Sushi on Fire and it was incredible. Will definitely come back when in the area again. Soooo good and reasonably priced.” – Amy Bentley
19881 BROOKHURST ST., UNIT D, HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714-968-7065
U Sushi & Grill combines everything fast-casual diners love about sushi with another food favorite — chicken wings. U Sushi & Grill is the go-to-place for take-out (the restaurant does not have a dining space, so it’s basically take-out only) or a late-night sushi or wings fix, the restaurant is open until midnight Monday through Saturday.
The menu at U Sushi & Grill includes all the sushi favorites, from appetizers and salads to sushi, sashimi,
carpaccio and a huge variety of rolls. More than a dozen sauces and dressings are offered on the menu to go with the food, from soy garlic sauce to ginger dressing to spicy mayo.
Then there are the wings: The three different types on the menu are all Koreanstyle, and you can order a side of waffle fries, too.
U Sushi & Grill earned many five-star reviews on Yelp for the quality of the food, especially the exotic rolls, sauces and wings.
COURTESY OF SUSHI ON FIRE
Home & Garden
• AC and Heating Company
• Apartment Community
• Appliance Store
• Blind / Shutter Store
• City To Live In
• Door / Window Company
• Furniture Store
• Garden Center / Nursery
• Homebuilder
• Home Improvement Store
• Kitchen/ Bath Remodeling Specialist
• Mattress Store
• New Home Community
• Place To Buy Carpet / Flooring
• Real Estate Company
• Senior Living Community
» BEST AC AND HEATING COMPANY
1. Veteran Air
2925 E. RICKER WAY, ANAHEIM; 714-206-3493; VETERANAIRUSA.NET
Veteran Air is perhaps as well-known for its charitable work as it is for serving Orange County’s air conditioning and heating needs. From Thanksgiving ham giveaways to holiday toy drives, the spirit of giving back is embedded in the company.
Jessica Andersen, owner of Veteran Air, explains how she and her late husband Mike, who founded the company 15 years ago and died last year, struggled in their years as a young family with small children.
“Sometimes, we would have $20 to our name and that’s what we would go grocery shopping at the dollar store with,” she says. “We really struggled as a family and worked very hard to get where we are today.”
After Mike Andersen’s passing, Jessica says that it was important to keep the Thanksgiving ham giveaway going. “It’s a big family thing for us because we were once collecting food from food banks,” she says, adding that
their children get involved in the project and help hand out 100 hams every year. “My husband has passed, but it’s part of his legacy. It’s part of Veteran Air. It’s always going to be a part of who we are.”
When it comes to the HVAC business, Jessica notes that treating customers “like
2. Alps Heating & Air Conditioning
1895 S. SANTA CRUZ ST., ANAHEIM; 714-452-8176; ALPSCOMFORTAIR.COM
Family is crucial at Alps Heating and Air Conditioning.
“My father-in-law, Al (Puig), learned the trade from his father-in-law years ago,” says assistant general manager Joey Gibellino, who has been with Alps for at least 15 years and works alongside his brotherin-law.
Family is something that the business stresses in its relationship with customers. “All my guys know that if you go into a house, I want you to listen to the concerns of people, see what the problems are and make recommendations like you would if it was your
grandmother or your mom or your sister or your brother,” he says. That means that Alps works with technicians who will look to see what can be fixed before suggesting that you get a new system.
Gibellino notes that it’s ideal to contact Alps in the spring to have your air conditioning checked out and serviced, if necessary, before the summer heat waves hit. For those who need a new AC system, he points out that prices will be rising nationwide next year and notes that Alps is an EnergyStar company, so it can offer Go Green financing.
they’re family” is something Veteran Air has always taken seriously because they also know what it’s like to not have air conditioning on a gruesomely hot summer day.
As Jessica takes over the day-to-day operations for Veteran Air, she wants customers to know that
the company will continue in much the same fashion. “My goal is to make sure that Veteran Air continues the same,” she says, “and how people saw it with him, they’re going to continue to see with me.”
— Liz Ohanesian
3. Moffett Plumbing & Air
1863 N. NEVILLE ST., ORANGE; 714-581-8592; MOFFETTPLUBMING.COM
For more than 50 years, Orange County residents have been turning to Moffett Plumbing & Air for routine maintenance and emergency fixes. The family owned company has flat-rate deals for services like HVAC tuneups and drain cleaning and, since 2008, it has offered the Family Plan, which includes annual maintenance and front-of-line service, as well as discounts and warranties.
Moffett’s HVAC services also include air quality
solutions — from air purification systems to humidity control and ventilation. Beyond HVAC, Moffett’s list of plumbing services is lengthy, ranging from bidet installation to sewer line repair. For worst-case scenarios, 24-hour emergency plumbing repair is available for those living in Yorba Linda, Anaheim and Huntington Beach. Moffett can also handle water heater installation and repairs, as well as gas line repair and replacement.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Jessica Andersen is the owner of Veteran Air in Anaheim.
Location alone makes Baypointe an ideal spot to nest. These Newport Beach apartments are perched near Back Bay, a birder’s paradise where nearly 200 species, including endangered ones, live full time and many others visit as they migrate.
Nearby trails are available whether you want to bike, hike or jog. Baypointe residents have private access to the Nature Preserve, making this an even more convenient option for those who prioritize spending time outside.
But, if that weren’t enough to charm locals, there are the apartments themselves. Seven floor plans are available at Baypointe, which is overseen by Irvine Company Apartment Communities. Prospective residents have plenty of options when selecting a home here. The one bedroom, one bath and loft might be ideal for a single person or couple working from home. The most spacious unit measures 1,243 square feet and features
two bedrooms outfitted with walk-in closets, two bathrooms, plus a dining and living room with a fireplace and a patio.
All apartments come with quartz countertops and farmhouse-style sinks in the
Family- and pet-friendly, Esperanza Apartment Homes in Irvine remains a favorite among Orange County Register readers. With nine floor plans currently available, there are units to fit many different lifestyles, whether you’re looking for a one- or twobedroom home.
Private garages are the norm here, as are in-home washers and dryers, kitchens with granite countertops and all major appliances and access to Google Fiber. Amenities include a fitness center, work lounge
and clubhouse with a full kitchen, as well as a saltwater pool and spa, plus a courtyard with a barbecue area and outdoor fireplace.
The location, too, has its advantages, with its close proximity to Jeffrey Open Space Trail and Woodbury Town Center, plus convenient access to freeways and toll roads. Head to Irvine Company’s Esperanza website to check out available apartments and schedule an appointment to go on a self-guided tour to check out these homes in person.
kitchen, plus an in-home washer and dryer. Some units include stainless steel appliances and a French door refrigerator.
In this pet-friendly community, residents also have access to a junior
Olympic-size pool, spa, barbecue and outdoor lounge area, plus workspaces and a fitness center. Available units are listed on Baypointe’s website, where you can also schedule a self-guided tour.
It’s hard to be bored while living in Los Olivos at Irvine Spectrum. The apartment and townhome complex is filled with resort-style amenities, including six saltwater pools and spas, a sand volleyball court and night-lit basketball and tennis courts. There are also five clubhouses, two dog parks, a gym and a spin studio and a children’s play area on-site.
When you do need to leave the community, you’re walking distance from Los Olivos Marketplace and near Irvine Spectrum. For lovers of the outdoors, the location
also gives you convenient access to explore Irvine’s wealth of nature.
With the community’s more than 25 floor plans, many of which are available, there are a lot of options for making Los Olivos your home, whether walk-in closets are a must or if you need space for a home office. Standard features here include hardwood-style floors in the kitchen and entryway, plus in-home washers and dryers, and private garages. Available units are listed on the Irvine Company website. Schedule a self-guided tour if interested.
COURTESY OF IRVINE COMPANY
» BEST APPLIANCE STORE
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
2. Best Buy
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; BESTBUY.COM
Best Buy’s robust selection of appliances and electronics might be enough to keep customers coming back. From appliance packages to fill both large and small kitchens to parts for fixing what you already have, Best Buy’s selection is impressive and well-suited for customers with both limited and large budgets.
But what’s better than that is the store’s recycling program. At most locations, customers can bring in up to three items a day per household for recycling with no drop-off fee. Additionally, Best Buy’s haul-away options can remove and recycle major appliances, including portable air conditioners, dishwashers, washers and dryers, for a fee, which varies depending on whether or not you’ve purchased a replacement appliance. There’s a substantial list of items that the store does and does not accept, so check Best Buy’s website first before you start scrolling for a new microwave or ice maker.
3. Build with Ferguson
IRVINE, LAKE FOREST; BUILD.COM
1. Howard’s
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; HOWARDS.COM
With Experience Center locations in Huntington Beach, La Habra, Laguna Hills and Tustin, Howard’s remains a favorite among Orange County residents looking to upgrade their appliances. The Southern California chain has a history going back to the 1940s, but its approach to selling appliances is thoroughly modern. With interactive kitchen displays and live appliances, customers can get a feel for today’s tech-heavy products before they make a purchase.
The breadth of brands the store carries also is impressive — from tried-and-true appliance suppliers like GE and Maytag to luxury brands like Monogram and Dacor. If you’re interested in German engineering, ask a sales associate to show you products from Míele. Or, if you’re on the hunt for major appliances with clean lines
that can seamlessly blend into your kitchen, inquire about Fisher & Paykel. There are also options to special order items that are not regularly in stock.
At Howard’s, though, it’s about more than the appliances. Will call and instore pickup are available, which can be convenient for smaller appliances; free, next-day delivery is available for purchases of $399-plus within a store’s delivery range.
One of the best features, though, is haul-away service. Fees do apply, but it can be worth it to have your old refrigerator or other appliance moved out of your home and taken for recycling. For those who would rather repair what they already have at home, check in with the Howard’s parts department to see if they have the parts you need for the DIY fix.
— Liz Ohanesian
For a complete kitchen refresh, Build with Ferguson might have what you need or want. Large appliances range from budget-friendly models by brands like GE to high-end pieces from Bertazzoni and AGA. The small appliance selection includes splurge items like Miele’s countertop coffee machines, Cafe’s 16-setting espresso machine and grinder and Monogram’s forged heat ice press.
But you can also turn to Ferguson for kitchen sinks, tile, lighting and furniture. As you shop, use Build with Ferguson’s online tools to collect inspiration and manage your project. You can browse through different kitchen aesthetics on their website to get an idea of what you want in your own home.
For guidance, make an appointment for a consultation at a Ferguson showroom. Before you connect with the experts, be sure to bring any inspiration photos and details with you, as well as information about your budget and goals.
» BEST BLIND / SHUTTER STORE
1. 3 Day Blinds
855-745-9710; 3DAYBLINDS.COM
An option for those who prefer shopping at home is 3 Day Blinds. The Irvine-based company essentially connects you with one of its designers who will make a home visit for a free consultation.
During this meeting, you can talk budget and figure out which of their options works best for you.
And, at 3 Day Blinds, there are plenty of options. Both wood and faux wood blinds are available, as well as mini metal and vertical. The selection of shades include cellular, roller, Roman, horizontal and woven wood. The company also makes “simply sheer” shades, otherwise known as zebra shades, for those interested in contemporary looks.
Both custom shutters and custom curtains and drapery panels are available through 3 Day Blinds as well. There are also options for motorized shades, certified eco-friendly products and blackout window treatments.
Once your order is ready — about 80% of the products are made at the company’s own facility — a professional installer will come and
2. Orange County Shutters
7649 GARDEN GROVE BLVD., GARDEN GROVE; 714-8910090; ORANGECOUNTYSHUTTERS.COM
Rebecca Gloudeman jokes that it’s the name, Orange County Shutters, that has made her business a hit with locals for years. Really, though, there’s more than that to the success of this blinds and shutters company.
“When you have a good product, good customer service and a good name, it makes you stand out above the rest,” she says.
Homeowners turn to Orange County Shutters for “clean, modern” styles, including flat panels, hidden tilts and motorized options. Custom paints and stains also are available. Orange
County Shutters excels in specialty shapes, as well as French and sliding glass doors.
“We basically have a shutter for any need,” says Gloudeman. “The versatility is amazing.”
Fall is the busy season for Orange County Shutters, so make an appointment to visit the showroom and see what options work best for you. For new clients, a design consultant can make a home visit. Once you’ve made your selection, it takes about four to eight weeks for a professional installer to outfit your windows with new shades or blinds.
handle the job for you. There are no 3 Day Blinds showrooms, so to get in touch you will have to make an appointment, either by
filling out the form on the company’s website or by calling their toll-free number.
For more than 15 years, Westminster-based ABC Shutters has been outfitting Orange County windows with blinds, shutters and drapery. Working primarily with Hunter Douglas, the shop offers a wide range of options, from classic wood blinds to sheer, vertical shades that work with large windows.
With such a large selection, there are window coverings suited to fit different preferences. Whether you need lightenhancing shades for the kitchen, room darkening ones for your media space or sound absorption shades
to curb the neighborhood noise, ABC has products to suit your needs at home.
If you’re interested in motorized shades, the store carries Hunter Douglas models that work with the award-winning PowerView Automation program.
In addition to selling blinds and shades, ABC also makes drapery and valances in various styles. The showroom is open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and is available by appointment on Sundays. During regular business hours, walk-ins are welcome.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST CITY TO LIVE IN
1. Irvine
WWW.CITYOFIRVINE.ORG
Earlier this year, Irvine launched its new shuttle service, Irvine CONNECT, which connects the northern section of the city to Irvine Station and offers stops at two hospitals, multiple schools and Irvine Spectrum, as well as other destinations. It’s free to ride and outfitted with Wi-Fi.
“Hopefully, this year, with its success, we’ll be expanding that opportunity in other areas of the city as well,” says Mayor Farrah N. Khan.
But that’s not all that’s happening in Irvine. Great Park Live opened this past summer, giving people the opportunity to hear live music during Irvine Nights events and Pacific Symphony performances. In three years, the city’s new, 10,000seat amphitheater will be completed at Great Park.
“That will mean having those bigger bands come back to Irvine for live music, which is going to be great,” Khan says.
Meanwhile, Great Park continues to take shape, both as a place to play and as a cultural destination. Irvine
2. Huntington Beach
has also recently started work on the Gateway Preserve, which will add another 700 acres of open space to the city. Meanwhile, Irvine, frequently cited as one of the safest cities
WWW.HUNTINGTONBEACHCA.GOV
“No. 1, you can’t beat the climate here,” says Huntington Beach Mayor Gracey Van Der Mark on why people love to live in her city.
Add 10 miles of uninterrupted coastline and a calendar packed with events — including the U.S. Open of Surfing and the Pacific Airshow — and you can see how Huntington Beach becomes one of Register readers’ favorite cities to live in.
This past summer, Huntington Beach celebrated Fourth of July
with its 120th annual Independence Day Parade.
“We have the largest Independence Day Parade west of the Mississippi, and we’re very proud of that,”
Van Der Mark says.
The events draw in visitors, but they’re also reflective of the community as well. “We’re a very familyoriented, beachy community. Very down-to-earth and welcoming,” Van Der Mark says. “We just want everyone to come and check out our city and enjoy the things that we are actually blessed to enjoy on a daily basis.”
in the U.S., is also working on making bike lanes safer.
Still, Khan says, people love Irvine for more than all these projects.
“At the end of the day, it’s
3. Anaheim
ANAHEIM.NET
From Disneyland to the Angels, there are plenty of reasons people love Anaheim, but there’s more happening in this city than its most famous residents.
The city is home to more than 60 parks, ranging from “mini parks” to the 103-acre Deer Canyon Park Preserve. Recently, Little People’s Park received a new playground, designed with input from local children and built in one day with a team of volunteers from various organizations, including the city.
Anaheim also boasts seven
the community itself,” she says. “I think the people here truly care about one another, and that makes it a unique city to be in.”
— Liz Ohanesian
libraries, plus a mobile library, and 11 community centers. There’s also a robust program of classes and activities for both youth and adults. The “City of Kindness” has been living up to its motto with the Tech Scholar Program, a needand merit-based scholarship initiative that provides laptops or tablets to collegebound high school students. The city is also continuing to address its challenges; Anaheim is a recent recipient of a state grant to help those experiencing homelessness.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST DOOR / WINDOW COMPANY
1. TMC Windows & Doors
1330 N. GLASSEL ST., SUITE J, ORANGE; 714-515-1226; TMCENTERPRISES.COM
If you prefer the in-person shopping experience, TMC Windows & Doors might be the ideal option for you.
Located in Orange, the showroom is open six days a week, with hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Here, you can browse through the displays and get an idea of what kind of windows and doors TMC has available from a variety of top brands in the field. With a “no job-too-small” motto, TMC is the kind of company you can turn to for a single replacement window or a full home makeover.
Serving Orange County since 1997, TMC has a selection of windows and doors that includes on-trend options like Andersen’s MultiGlide door, which can maximize a backyard view; Milgard’s minimalist Trinsic Series V300 windows; and Andersen’s 400 series casement windows, which crank open and can lend a cottage-core or modern farmhouse vibe to your room. TMC also carries products from Pella and a Breabased company, WinDor. The company’s collection of front doors includes models from Therma-Tru as well as styles from wood door maker Rogue Valley.
Once you have an idea of what you want, schedule a free, in-home consultation with TMC. Ask about its EnergyStar options, and note that financing is available plus installations come with a five-year warranty.
— Liz Ohanesian
2. Metropolitan High Performance Windows
940 E. ORANGETHORPE AVE., SUITE G, ANAHEIM; 800-995-8878; MHIWINDOWS.COM
“A lot of people call up and don’t know what they want, a retrofit window or a new construction window,” says Paul Richart of Metropolitan High Performance Windows. “We can help them determine what’s best for their house.”
Richart breaks down the difference. New construction windows involve replacing the window and the frame, but it can also require re-stuccoing. “The house looks more original that way, but it’s going to be much more expensive because of all the labor involved,” he says.
A retrofit window, which is what most Metropolitan customers choose, is when you pop a new window into an existing frame. During home consultations, Richart tries to educate prospective customers on subjects like this and what energy-efficient properties certain windows might have. It’s all so that customers can pick the windows best suited for their homes. Combine that with access to materials from nearly every window manufacturer and two certified master installers on staff, it’s no wonder that Metropolitan continually lands repeat and referral work, and is a Best of Orange County regular.
Founded in 1990, Brea-based WinDor Systems is an awardwinning company known for quality work and cutting-edge styles.
Most recently, the company unveiled black doors and windows that use WinShield technology, which reflects heat and is low maintenance. It’s available for casement windows, as well as other door and window options. Windor’s multislide and folding doors are ideal for those who want to enhance a scenic view from the back of the home; their European-style glass swing doors are a charming option for those who want to allow more light into a room.
For a number of WinDor products, you can take your pick of locks and handles and select from several different glass and grid options. Some products also have semi-custom color options. While there are retailers who carry select WinDor products, you can also request a consultation directly through the company’s website. Visits to the showroom in Brea are by appointment only.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The show room at TMC Windows and Doors in Orange.
» BEST FURNITURE STORE
1. Living Spaces
HUNTINGTON BEACH, IRVINE; LIVINGSPACES.COM
Whether your current vibe is Greek revival, Cape Cod or something else, Living Spaces has you covered. The always on-trend home interior store superstore, with locations in Huntington Beach and Irvine, delivers a cross-aesthetic selection of furnishings for every room in the house. But, encountering such a wide variety of stuff in-person can be a little overwhelming.
Before you go to a Living Spaces showroom, head to the company’s website and browse through its digital catalogs to figure out exactly what you need. These style guides are organized by themes and/or specific products. You’ll find several titles — including “Modern Gothic” and “Coastal Grandma Style” — as well as ones dedicated to sectionals, TV stands and custom upholstery.
The latter can give you some insight into how you can take advantage of one of Living Spaces’ most popular
features. More than 120 fabrics are available to upholster sofas, sectionals, chairs and beds. You can also build your own sectional to suit the unique needs of your life and space.
Besides furnishings for living rooms, home offices and adult bedrooms, Living Spaces carries a selection of beds, dressers and desks for kids and teens. Once you’ve selected your large furniture items, the store also has an extensive assortment of lamps, vases, clocks, wall art and other décor.
Living Spaces is home to celebrity designer lines like Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines and Nate + Jeremiah. It also has a line of solid wood furnishings, American-Crafted, that focuses on classic and modern pieces with details like dovetail joinery and table extensions. American-Crafted pieces can also be customized with one of several available finishes.
Home furnishings is an area increasingly dominated by nationwide chain stores. Yet, in Fountain Valley, the sole Stewart Roth’s furniture store has thrived for more than 50 years.
Quality is key here; from plush sofas to tables made from reclaimed oak to customizable bedroom sets, the products here appeal to those who take craftsmanship seriously.
The real selling point of Stewart Roth’s Furniture, though, is the variety of Amish-made furniture in stock. These include full dining room sets, armoires with adjustable shelves and rocking chairs, among other items — all made by hand from solid wood. Fully customized pieces — where you choose the wood, stain, size, shape and hardware — also are available. Head to the showroom to get an idea of what you want in your home.
3. Ashley Furniture
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; ASHLEYFURNITURE.COM
For interiors with an upscale look at budget-friendly prices, Register readers often turn to Ashley. The nationwide chain of furniture stores boasts collections of on-trend pieces, including mid-century-inspired shapes and upholstered pieces in shades of mustard and turquoise. It also excels in sourcing pieces suited for smaller spaces and includes items that are exclusive to Ashley stores.
In addition to regularly advertised sales and deals, Ashley’s Orange rewards program offers membership perks such as rewards dollars, discounts and advance access to sales. Multiple financing options are available, in addition to a lease-to-own program and a price-match guarantee.
As you’re decorating your home, head to the XO Ashley blog for tips and ideas. You’ll discover a wealth of articles, including guides to help you figure out where to start if you’re going to give your bedroom a makeover or if you want to start mixing and matching your dining room furniture.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST GARDEN CENTER / NURSERY
1. Armstrong Garden Centers
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; ARMSTRONGGARDEN.COM
With seven Orange County locations extending from La Habra to San Juan Capistrano, Armstrong is arguably the most convenient option for Register readers. But the 130-year-old, employee-owned chain of Southern California stores also has a lot to offer both new and seasoned home gardeners. They even carry gardening supplies and toys for children to engage little ones in the outdoors while you plant and prune. Armstrong’s ample selection of plants includes those grown in-state through the Armstrong Growers program, which operates four facilities in Southern California. They make good use of the region’s varied climates, with facilities
2. Roger’s Gardens
2301 SAN JOAQUIN HILLS ROAD, CORONA DEL MAR; 949-640-5800; ROGERSGARDENS.COM
An O.C. gardening institution, Roger’s Gardens was founded nearly 60 years ago and its staying power, says vice president Ron Vanderhoff, is the store’s ability to “continually change and adapt.”
“What’s not hot this year could be hot next year and vice versa,” adds Vanderhoff. Recently, roses have come back into vogue and Roger’s has been satiating customers’ needs for bright blooms with their famed selection, which includes sought-after varieties like the Disneyland Rose. Recently, the store has delved deep into herbs and hosted a
lavender festival.
“People are really fascinated by the variety of herbs — how many different mints and thymes and lavenders, how many different tastes are available and plants you can grow in the garden,” says Vanderhoff.
As awareness of how our yards affect the greater environment increases, Roger’s has been a go-to resource for pollinator gardens, as well as organic and bird-friendly ones. Says Vanderhoff: “Our number one selling product in our entire store is a monarch food plant.”
in both coastal and desert locations. That lends itself to a wide breadth of Armstronggrown plants, which range from Strawberry Eversweet to Verbena to Sierra White Anthurium to a variety of roses. For those who need a little more help than what you can glean from Armstrong’s online tutorials, the in-store personal shoppers can guide you through the best options for your project. The store also offers a garden consultation
3. Plant Depot
service, as well as landscape design services, with an at-home visit for a fee. If gardening really isn’t your thing, though, you can always contact Armstrong about their lawn and garden care services; Armstrong contractors (who are certified, licensed and insured) can pay your home a visit to fertilize your yard, handle pesky insect issues and check for diseases in your garden.
— Liz Ohanesian
32413 SAN JUAN CREEK ROAD; 949-240-2107; PLANTDEPOT.COM
“There’s a big difference between planting in full sun in Mission Viejo and planting in full sun in Laguna Beach,” says Jennifer Kittle, who co-owns Plant Depot with her sister Kristina.
At the San Juan Capistrano garden center, the knowledgeable staff, which includes experts certified in various areas of horticulture, can help with more than just selecting the right plant for your yard.
“Brigitte is our rosarian and has a strong passion for roses in her own yard,”
says Kittle. “She’ll have lots of extra tips from her own experience that help people not just pick the right rose, but also care for them.”
Plant Depot also has multiple arborists on staff who can answer questions about things like planting and pruning. All of this extra attention helps customers find success. “If your soil isn’t right or you’re using the wrong fertilizer, you could be set up to fail right from the start,” says Kittle. “It’s so much more than finding the plants. You have to know how to care for them.”
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST HOMEBUILDER
1. Trumark Homes
TRUMARKHOMES.COM
Trumark isn’t just Orange County’s favorite homebuilder. Last year, the company won multiple awards, including one from the National Association of Home Builders, for the Covina Bowl project, a contemporary townhouse community that maintains the iconography of the site’s past life as a mid-20th century bowling alley.
Meanwhile, the company has expanded its footprint to include new homes in the Central Valley. Across California, Trumark homes are selling fast and, here in Orange County, many of the company’s recent developments, like Dahlia at Rienda Village in Rancho Mission Viejo, are sold out.
Still, if you’re in the market for a Trumark home, there are some new home communities to explore. In Mission Viejo, Saddleback Place offers seven different floor plans for flats and townhomes, including a 1,952-square-foot townhome with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a two-car garage,
2. Landsea Homes
LANDSEAHOMES.COM
With projects that include Best of Orange County new home communities Hudson in Placentia and Avelina in San Juan Capistrano, Landsea Homes remains one of Register readers’ favorite homebuilders.
“Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases of a person’s life. That’s why we place such great emphasis on quality customer service during the sales process,” says Patrick Higgins, vice president of sales and marketing, in an email. “We’re here for the entry-level and first-time homebuyer, the growing family and
great room and deck.
Earlier this year, Trumark launched sales for Willow at Rienda in Mission Viejo, a neighborhood with 93 two-story townhomes conveniently located near Rienda Plunge, the community hub with a pool,
spa and tot lot. Willow’s three available floor plan options range from one to three bedrooms; features include flex rooms, ceramic tile in the entry and Shaker-style cabinets.
Through a partnership with charity: water, Trumark
3. Nicholson Homes
NICHOLSONCOMPANIES.COM
leverages the homes built in the U.S. to provide clean water for communities in Malawi, Uganda and Ethiopia. For more information on available Trumark homes, check out the company’s website.
— Liz Ohanesian
downsizers. We encourage questions, are happy to be a resource and, most importantly, walk buyers through the purchase process so that it is as seamless as possible.”
Later this year, Landsea will beginning selling the townhomes at Mason in Anaheim. “With each of our projects, we remain focused on creating communities with exceptional planning and unmatched attention to detail,” says Higgins, “and I truly believe that’s what resonates with homebuyers and why the demand for our homes is so high.”
With multiple awards to its credit, including a nod in NAHB Best in American Living Awards, Nicholson Homes is known for building homes that are eye-catching not just for their design, but for how they incorporate ocean views.
“We emphasize indoor/ outdoor living,” says Lynn West, head of Nicholson’s inhouse interior design team. “We position the house to highlight ocean views. We try to lay out the floor plan to do that as well.”
Currently, Nicholson’s work breaks down to about 75% client-owned homes and
25% spec homes, each one keeping with the company’s light-filled, coastal aesthetic. In Dana Point, Nicholson highlighted the view on a smaller lot by incorporating an upper-level deck with a spa. In Corona del Mar, one house will have light shafts coming down to the basement, plus a rooftop deck that will reveal a view that extends beyond Catalina. “This is one of our most ambitious builds to date,” says Nicholson’s Debby Holmgren of the 11,000-square-foot house that’s set for completion next year.
You don’t need to buy new tools for every home improvement project. At Home Depot, a robust tool rental program helps you get the job done without purchasing more tools than you can afford or store.
Tool Rental Centers have the same hours as the stores where they are located; items are available on first-come, first-served basis to rent for hours, days or longer. The range of tools is impressive, from nail guns to leaf blowers to excavators, but you’ll need to check with your local Rental Center to see what they have on hand. In some places, large equipment, such as excavators, can be delivered to the work site. But most items you’ll simply pick up from Home Depot. Truck and van rentals are also available, making it a convenient option if you’re planning to move.
For tools that you do need, but are a bit out of budget, Home Depot also sells used items at select locations, including in Orange County. With used tools, availability is always subject to change, so your best bet is to check Home Depot’s website to see what’s available through their used tool program before driving to the store.
Do-it-yourselfers can also get ideas for projects on Home Depot’s website, along with a program to calculate costs. The store also offers webinars on topics such as bathroom and kitchen remodeling, installing flooring and doing electrical work.
But, Home Depot isn’t just for the big DIY projects. The chain’s Halloween and Christmas collections are ideal for those who like to go big during the holidays with animatronic displays and eye-catching lights.
— Liz Ohanesian
2. Lowe’s
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; LOWES.COM
It’s not always possible, or, in some cases, wise, to tackle home improvement projects yourself. That’s where the suite of installation services at Lowe’s comes in handy. Whether it’s assembling patio furniture or installing a water heater, you’ll be connected to the pros who can do the job for you.
For a kitchen refresh, the store does offer free virtual consultations with an expert who will create a 3D rendering based on your ideas. You’ll then be connected to a local installer who can provide a quote for installation.
For those with accessibility needs who want to modify their home accordingly, Lowe’s also offers independent living services, which include ramp and stair lift installations and bathtub conversions, as well as adding grab bars to showers and installing toilets to chair height. If needed, you can schedule a virtual assessment through Lowe’s to figure out what will make your home more comfortable.
3. Ace Hardware
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS, ACEHARDWARE.COM
This year marks Ace Hardware’s centennial. In 100 years, the company has grown from a coalition of small businesses to a global home improvement brand that prides itself on a “helpful” approach to customer service.
In addition to the mostly independently owned and operated brick-and-mortar shops connected through the brand — including Fullerton Ace, Griffin Ace and Woodward’s Ace in Santa Ana — the company offers services for those who need additional help.
Ace’s home services includes Ace Handyman Services Coastal Orange County, which can connect folks in Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar and Costa Mesa with pros for various home improvement tasks. Meanwhile, Ace Handyman Services Long Beach, which is actually located in Garden Grove, also services Seal Beach, Los Alamitos and Cypress. Both outposts handle jobs like painting, flooring, fencing, gutter maintenance and general commercial handyman services.
JEFF GRITCHEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The Home Depot was voted the best home improvement store in the Best of Orange County balloting.
» BEST KITCHEN / BATH REMODELING SPECIALIST
1. Sea Pointe Design & Remodel
576 WALD, IRVINE; 949-861-3400; SEAPOINTE.COM
Back in 2020, Sea Pointe Design & Remodel had about 38 employees. Now, the staff at this Irvine-based firm has swelled to just under 70. But, it’s not just the size of the company that’s grown, says Sea Pointe’s president Lauren Mills, it’s the scope of the projects that they handle as well.
“We’re seeing less people moving,” she says. “We’re running out of space, technically, here in Orange County, just with new build opportunities, so we’re seeing more people remodel. Instead of just trying to do one bathroom, they’re trying to take a kitchen and multiple bathrooms and do it all at one time.”
In some cases, people are reimagining the entire house. One San Juan Capistrano whole-home remodel — which included a California room that makes use of the stunning backyard view and a pool house with an Irish pub-inspired bar — took about six months in design and just over a year for construction. With a licensed
architect on staff, Sea Pointe is able to work closely with the client from start to finish and ensure that the scope and details of the project are all made clear and specific.
“I want them to know exactly what they’re going
2. Cabinet Wholesalers
4510 E. LA PALMA AVE.; 714-880-8503; 1800CABINETWHOLESALERS.COM
For 20 years, family owned Cabinet Wholesalers has been upgrading Orange County homes with a variety of services to refresh kitchens and bathrooms.
If you’re not looking for a complete overhaul of your space, the firm will handle bathroom conversions, like turning a shower into a tub or vice versa, backsplash installations and more. Cabinets, though, are in the Anaheim-based company’s name and, in addition to stock items, it handles semicustom and custom jobs.
For semi-custom services, you’ll work with a design specialist to find the right finish or accents for your new cabinets. Cabinet Wholesalers’ custom cabinetry program extends beyond the kitchen and bathroom and includes projects like desks, bookshelves and built-in cabinets for your home office, as well as home entertainment centers. If you prefer to simply makeover what you already have installed in your home, inquire about your cabinet refacing options.
to get for the exact financial investment that they are making before any demo crew shows up and takes out their kitchen,” Mills says. Perhaps that’s why Sea Pointe won a Better Business Ethics Award two years ago.
3. Mr. Cabinet Care
“For us, that was the most important award that we could receive,” Mills says, “because I think it says that we’re trying to be ethically transparent with our clients and upfront with them.”
— Liz Ohanesian
4375 E. LA PALMA; 714-766-0287; MRCABINETCARE.COM
Kitchens are at the core of Mr. Cabinet Care’s work, and the family-owned company can handle anything from cabinet refacing to a full remodel. In the 35-plus years that Mr. Cabinet Care has been serving Orange County, it has found a balance between modern materials and oldfashioned craftsmanship. Today, the firm takes a 21st century approach to classic custom work with its Duracore cabinetry, designed for maximum durability and constructed
to your specifications in the company’s Anaheim factory. Mr. Cabinet Care’s custom work also extends to kitchen islands, which the company can design and build to suit the needs of both your room and lifestyle, whether that’s more space for sitting or additional storage. When it comes to surfaces, Mr. Cabinet Care now offers heat- and scratch-resistant DuraQuartz countertops, made with 93% crushed quartz and 7% resin; and waterproof, dent-resistant luxury vinyl Dura Floors.
MINDY SCHAUER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST MATTRESS STORE
1. Custom Comfort Mattress
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; CUSTOMCOMFORTMATTRESS.COM
Custom Comfort’s Gary Trudell estimates that more than 300 chiropractors have referred folks to the Orange County-based company for a new mattress. Doctors, in particular orthopedic surgeons, have sent patients in the direction of Custom Comfort as well.
“We’re blessed to have a lot of referrals because we fit people,” Trudell says.
There are a variety of mattresses available at different price points, but the one thing that they have in common is that Custom Comfort’s mattresses are made in Orange in a traditional way. Layers of California cotton are hand-tufted to create a double-sided mattress. Pillowtops, made using natural fibers that are resistant to mold and mites, are also double-sided.
Since these mattresses can be
flipped, their lifespan is longer than the average one-sided modern mattress. And since Custom Comfort builds and sells mattresses on a direct basis, they can typically deliver the purchase to your home within a week.
But, attaining Custom Comfort as you sleep all starts with a fitting. Stop by one of eight locations, six of which are in Orange County, and someone from the Custom Comfort sales team will be able to assess your mattress needs based on things like body type and most frequent sleeping position. “There’s not one solution for every body,” Trudell says.
“It’s why we have six locations in Orange County,” he continues. “We do want clients to come in and be fitted because comfort is an opinion. It’s subjective things.”
— Liz Ohanesian
2. Sit n’ Sleep MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; SITNSLEEP.COM
Sit n’ Sleep gets that buying a mattress can be a challenge for people.
“Their biggest fears when buying a mattress is picking the wrong mattress and also spending more than they have to,” says Andrew “Drew” Miller, vice president of marketing and a member of the third generation of this family-owned business. You might recognize Miller from his appearances in Sit n’ Sleep commercials over the past several years. While advertising lends itself to great brand recognition in Southern California, Miller says that’s not the only reason for the chain’s success.
“Obviously, to stay popular over time, we also have to give excellent service,” he says. Sit n’ Sleep has been able to do that with staffers who have, on average, 10 years of experience, plus an ample selection of mattresses and the store’s BedMatch technology.
“You fill out some information and take a three-minute body diagnostic test that basically custom fits you for the correct level of support that you should be on,” says Miller. “You’ll try out the three or four different technologies that we have and from there, we can figure out what price you’re comfortable at and which mattress is best for you.”
3. Hadley Olivia Mattress Superstore
31896 PLAZA, SUITE D1, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; 949-488-8000; HADLEYOLIVIA.COM
“I think that over the course of the last 19 years, I’ve slept on several hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of mattresses,” says Ronnie Lane, owner of Hadley Olivia. “I really want to know what we sell,” he says.
With a stock that includes Sonu, touted as the first mattress designed for side-sleepers, to luxury British brand Vispring, the family owned store has a lot of variety for shoppers. So, Lane will often have a sample of a new mattress shipped to his home where he will sleep on it for months to get the best feel for the product.
He’s not the only one who test drives mattresses. Lane says that staffers will get their new mattresses from Hadley Olivia as well, so that they too have first-hand experience with what they’re selling.
“We want to sell stuff that we actually believe in and know that we’re going to solve the problem for our customers,” he said.
In January, Rancho Mission Viejo opened the latest phase of its Rienda development. “Sales have been pretty phenomenal,” says Stephanie Walker, vice president of marketing for the south Orange County new home development. What’s more, by early summer of this year, Rancho Mission Viejo’s Gavilán, the community reserved for residents age 55 and older, had sold out.
“We’re working on the next village, which is scheduled to open in 2026, called Gavilán Ridge,” says Walker.
With homes available for various budgets and a multigenerational bounty of amenities, Rancho Mission Viejo has consistently been named one of Register readers’ favorite new home communities. Its appeal extends from young families who can make use of the activities available for children, including several different summer camp programs, to seniors who partake in Gavilán’s exclusive amenities and active social scene.
“The Ranch life really is the secret sauce for every generation,” Walker says. And that’s only going to grow with the addition of new features, like Boulder Pond and Playground. The recreation area.
What stands out more than Rancho Mission Viejo’s scene, though, is the scenery in a space where more than 75 percent of the land is preserved. “We’re completely immersed in nature. You have this beautiful topography all around you,” Walker says. “You don’t feel like you’re in south Orange County. You don’t feel like you’re 4 or 5 miles away from the beach. It’s this unique little oasis, a safe haven.”
— Liz Ohanesian
2. Avelina
27102 VIA CAMINATA, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO; 888-8274421; LANDSEAHOMES.COM/ SOUTHERN-CALIFORNIA/ORANGE-COUNTY/SAN-JUAN-CAPISTRANO/AVELINA
By summer, only two of Avelina’s 89 three-story townhomes remained available. The San Juan Capistrano new home community has been immensely popular, with Modern Farmhouse and Modern Spanish offerings that were built with the history and aesthetic of the surrounding area in mind.
“The planning and design take advantage of hillside views, access to the region’s most beautiful beaches and a bustling yet charming old historic downtown,” says Patrick Higgins, vice president of sales and marketing for developer Landsea Homes.
The townhomes, which range from 1,767 to 1,840 square feet, are also in an ideal location, near the Los Rios District, downtown San Juan Capistrano, the local Amtrak station and the 5 Freeway. With the beach just a hike or bike ride away, Avelina’s location makes it an ideal home base for those who want to find the balance between work commutes, daily errands and recreational activities.
3. Hudson
1580 LIMA WAY, PLACENTIA; 714-485-5850; LANDSEAHOMES.COM/ SOUTHERN-CALIFORNIA/ORANGE-COUNTY/PLACENTIA/ HUDSON
Landsea’s Hudson townhomes in Placentia offer a variety of different sizes and floor plans, from 815-square-foot, one bedroom, one-and-a-half bath homes to three bedroom, twoand-a-half bath options that measure more than 1,300 square feet.
What makes these new homes stand out is Landsea’s approach to fostering community in the new housing market.
“Hudson’s Dutch Woonerf design concept embraces the idea of a ‘living street’ that acts as a social space between the buildings, and with room for pedestrians and cyclists,” says Patrick Higgins, vice president of sales and marketing for the company’s California division.
With access to two recreation areas, a dog park and a tot lot, the community is designed with both singles and young families in mind. Moreover, the community is located within a short driving distance from multiple park and activity centers, including Yorba Linda Lakebed Park.
MARK RIGHTMIRE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Rancho Mission Viejo was voted the best new home community in the Best of Orange County balloting.
» BEST PLACE TO BUY CARPET / FLOORING
1. Floor & Decor
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; FLOORANDDECOR.COM
For a sleek bathroom refresh, you might be considering porcelain slabs. They’re large — 10 feet tall and 5 feet wide — which decreases the amount of visible grout lines, fashionable and now available at select Floor & Decor locations. But, if you would prefer a fun, patterned title, the flooring superstore has plenty of those, too, ranging from contemporary starburst designs to retro florals.
With locations in Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Mission Viejo and Santa Ana, Floor & Decor is certainly a convenient location for many Orange County residents. But, the sheer volume and diversity of hard flooring it keeps in stock is another draw for this nationwide store.
Whether you’re looking for Scandinavian-inspired laminates or classic hardwood, there’s a good chance that you’ll find what you need here. You might also leave the store with new lighting or bathroom hardware.
For the DIYers, Floor &
2. Colonial Carpet
Decor sells everything you need to prepare and install your floor and then maintain it. The store also carries stair parts and moulding. Monthly, in-person workshops can help you strengthen
your skillset before you take on a challenging home improvement project, so call your local Floor & Decor for details. How-to videos are available on the store’s website, as are step-by-step
7331 GARDEN GROVE BLVD., SUITE B, GARDEN GROVE; 714-8924495; COLONIALCARPETCO.COM
Just one year shy of its 70th anniversary and recently recognized by the City of Garden Grove for its service, Colonial Carpet Co. has long been a name that locals can trust for their flooring and carpet installations.
“How it’s installed is a big part of what we do,” says owner Rick Tessier, who estimates about 90% of their business includes installations. Because Colonial Carpet keeps an abundance of carpeting and flooring on hand in its 5,000-square-foot showroom/warehouse, it can handle jobs promptly. Not only
that, but this allows the store to offer quality products at budgetfriendly prices.
In addition to making house calls for measurements, Colonial Carpet also allows customers to borrow samples to see how different options look under their lighting and at different times of day. The shop also has its own, highly trained installers and an in-house team to keep the project on track. Says Tessier, “You’re only dealing with that one person who knows all your details and will make sure that it all comes out smoothly.”
guides for maintaining your new flooring. For extra assistance as you plan your project, schedule an appointment for a free design consultation.
For 40 years, Michael’s Carpets has been providing Orange County residents with high quality carpet and flooring. The family owned, Huntington Beach business offers a wide range of options, from hardwood to patterned carpet to stair runners.
Before stopping by Michael’s Carpets, you can test out some of the options at home with the visualizer tool on the store’s website. Michael’s also carries environmentally friendly products, including ones made with sustainable resources or recycled materials, so if that’s a priority when upgrading your home, be sure to ask what’s in stock.
Financing options are available, and Michael’s provides free in-home estimates for your carpet or flooring, plus the installation. You can also make an appointment for a free consultation with the store’s interior designers.
PAUL BERSEBACH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
1. Anvil Real Estate
LAGUNA HILLS, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-799-1582; ANVILREINC.COM
Founded in 2020, Anvil Real Estate is still a young company, but it’s growing fast. “We’re kind of at a growth tipping point,” says Dan Smith, whose title with the company is “Captain of Culture and Kingmaker.”
Recently, Anvil gained about 50 agents, bringing the total to more than 100 between the company’s four offices. Anvil also added a chief operating officer, Nick Espinosa.
Despite all this growth, Anvil retains the personalized experience of a smaller company. “We’re still a boutique firm,” Smith says. “We still have the mindset of a boutique firm.” It’s one built on a “phenomenal culture,” where agents are well-supported with training and coaching and there’s a “team-centric” approach to business. All this lends itself to highly professional service.
Although Anvil has offices in La Jolla and Los Angeles, most of the company’s business is in Orange County, where it was founded and where it has offices in
Laguna Hills and Newport Beach; about 75 percent of that business stems from the southern portion of the county. Anvil agents, who work in real estate fulltime, often focus on specific
2. Times Real Estate Company
2901 W. COAST HIGHWAY, SUITE 200, NEWPORT BEACH; 949-335-7437; TIMESREALESTATECA.COM
Led by siblings George Charles Hanold and Regan Beegle, Times Real Estate Company is a boutique office known for listing stunner after stunner.
In Irvine, the company has listed a six-bedroom, more than 11,000-squarefoot Spanish revival with luxe touches like an onyx fireplace and infinity edge spa. Over at Nellie Gail Ranch, the company found a “unicorn” estate with a private tennis court amongst its many amenities. In Newport
Beach, it listed a Bay Front home with a view of the harbor.
Dream homes are certainly the speciality of this firm, whose names tends to pop up most often in places like Newport Beach and Corona del Mar. Yet, Times Real Estate also dedicates effort to supporting other dreams as well. The company regularly supports multiple charitable organizations, including local groups like Faces of Santa Ana.
geographic areas.
“They know everything there is to know. They know the floor plans. They know the schools. They know the restaurants,” says Smith. “Our agents tend to really
try to hyperfocus on an area because they can, in fact, bring tremendous value to both the buyer and the seller.”
— Liz Ohanesian
3. Seven Gables Real Estate
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS; SEVENGABLES.COM
Founded in Tustin in 1976, Seven Gables Real Estate is an O.C. real estate institution with locations in Huntington Beach, Anaheim Hills, Corona del Mar, Huntington Harbour and Orange.
For sellers, the real estate company offers the Refresh program with a line of credit for home improvements and staging, as well as a suite of marketing and branding services, an SG certified program to complete inspections and disclosures before the home goes on the market and a bridge loan program should you want
to make an offer on your potential new home before your current one sells.
Seven Gables also handles commercial sales and has property management services available. Other programs include Home for Heroes, which provides rebates for active military, veterans and others who are buying or selling a home. With $1.8 billion in sales over the past year, Seven Gables has certainly been doing well, and the firm pays it forward by partnering with Family Promise to help those in O.C. experiencing homelessness.
PAUL RODRIGUEZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
» BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY
1. Reata Glen
2 LAS ESTRELLAS LOOP, RANCHO MISSION VIEJO; 949-541-9079; REATAGLEN.COM
In the five years since Reata Glen opened, the Rancho Mission Viejo community has become a popular option for seniors looking for a place where they can relish in an active retirement. In fact, says Stephanie Riggs, director of marketing and sales, Reata Glen is now “near full.”
“We are still going to have homes available, but we’ve also opened up our Future Residents Club for those who would like to pre-plan for potentially moving to Reata Glen someday,” Riggs says. “It allows them some exclusive access to the community features and programs, and along with that it puts them on a priority waitlist for homes that might come available in the future.”
For those interested in pre-planning for Reata Glen, the program is available for people 60 and older who are financially and medically qualified to be on the waiting list. You’ll make a deposit to become part of the Future Resident’s Club, which will place you in the queue for homes as they become available. Meanwhile, you’ll have access to some of the dining, fitness and other features at Reata Glen.
2. Freedom Village
“Not only are they waiting
23442 EL TORO ROAD, BUILDING 1, LAKE FOREST; 949-472-4700; FREEDOMVILLAGE.ORG
“It’s never to early to start downsizing. Downsizing is a very big task,” says Eric Salgado, director of sales and marketing for Freedom Village. For those looking to settle into this Lake Forest community when they downsize, there is the VIP Club.
Interested folks can request specific floor plans or locations when they join and are privy to some Freedom Village amenities as they wait for the right home to become available. “It gives them the opportunity to try the community before they
move in,” says Salgado.
What prospective residents might notice is the community’s stability.
“We’ve had the same management in place since its inception, since Freedom Village opened in 1987,” says Salgado. Plus, the community is known for having many longtime staffers.
At the same time, Freedom Village continues to improve. The complex just finished an update of the main building’s first floor and incorporated a new dining room for residents.
for their ideal location and floor plan to open up, they also have an opportunity to start engaging with the community, so they can know it on a deeper level,” she says. “When a home does become available, they are able to ease into this lifestyle a lot easier because they already know it.”
— Liz Ohanesian
3. Laguna Woods Village
24351 EL TORO ROAD, LAGUNA WOODS; 949-597-4600; LAGUNAWOODSVILLAGE.COM
With more than 18,000 residents and a history dating back to the 1960s, Laguna Woods Village continues to be a popular destination for people who are 55 and older seeking to maintain their active lifestyle.
The community’s three neighborhoods offer a bounty of housing options, from golf course-adjacent condos to units with hotel-style amenities. For social seniors, there are plenty of activities within Laguna Woods Village, including more than 250 clubs and organizations,
plus events at the Performing Arts Center, sports and equestrian facilities, a garden center and educational opportunities.
For trips around Laguna Woods Village and outside the community, there is transportation available, with multiple fixed routes, as well as on-demand ride services. There is a lot of information regarding buying homes in Laguna Woods Village that is available on the website, but do reach out via phone or email if you have specific questions.
