WHERE Orange County Magazine Winter 2017

WINTER 2017 SOCALPULSE.COM

Orange County

®

BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED

TOP of the MORNING BREAKFASTS AND BRUNCHES RISE AND SHINE

Cavalia’s Odysseo in Irvine Rodd & Gunn menswear in Newport Beach El Mercado Modern Cuisine in Santa Ana

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where orange county

winter 2017

COntents

departments

THE DINING ISSUE

the guide

12

Watermelon gazpacho at Waterman’s Harbor

4 Editor’s Note Let’s taco ‘bout it!

32 Dining Restaurants by cuisine

6 Hot Dates

50 Entertainment Special events, performing arts and sports

Cavalia’s equine spectacular Odysseo.

64 30 Things We Love

51 Attractions + museums Theme parks, cultural venues and exhibitions

where now

53 Shopping The county’s major retail destinations

8 Dining New: El Mercado in Santa Ana, Harvest at the Ranch and the Royal Hawaiian in Laguna Beach.

54 golf The most beautiful and most interesting courses

10 Arts & Entertainment

54 BEACHES + PARKS Fun on the ground, on the water and in the sky.

Dancing With the Stars, ABT’s Nutcracker in Costa Mesa; Miss Hills at Laguna Art Museum.

57 nightlife Hottest clubs, lounges, bars and wine bars

11 Shopping Rodd & Gunn boutique for men opens at Fashion Island in Newport Beach.

COASTAL SHOPPING & DINING OVER

300

SHOPS

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Winter 2017 SoCalPulSe.Com

16

Orange County

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features

ELI E TAHARI

L’OCCI TANE

CAPITAL DIM SUM SEAFOOD

Breakfasts and Brunches rise and shine

A PPLE

FOREVER 21

HURLEY/NIKE SB

Top of the Morning

FA S H I O N I S L A N D S ho p Fa s hi o n I s l a n d .co m

Cavalia’s Odysseo in Irvine

NI KE W OMEN R OLEX T R I NA T UR K

Rodd & Gunn menswear in Newport Beach

UR BAN DECAY V I CTOR I A’S SECR ET V I NCE

El Mercado Modern Cuisine in Santa Ana

R ED O MEXI CA N CUISINE BY RICK BAYLESS SUSH I R OKU

12 Brunch Awakens

AND MOR E ... ©2016 The Irvine Company LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Fashion Island and Irvine Spectrum Center are registered trademarks of Irvine Company.

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58 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, and getting from here to there

11/2/16 10:40 AM

ON THE COVER Savory waffle pressed breakfast sandwich at the Waffle Affair in Newport Beach. Photo by Tawny Alipoon Photography.

See feature on page 16.

It’s the most decadent meal of the week: Calorie-counting is discouraged, and drinking before noon is de rigueur. By ROGER GRODY

City Tours Metro Cities The Coast South Coast North County

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Half a dozen new eateries suggest that the most important meal of the day can also be the most intriguing. By KATHERINE NGUYEN

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The Marketplace

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Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Connect with us online

20 Out for a Drive General managers and PGA pros talk about the holes they love—and the holes they love to hate. By JOHN WEYLER

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Explore the county north to south and A to Z page 61 133

The Triangle

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Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California editors online and on your smartphone.

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The Ultimate Shopping Experience

SOUTH COAST PLAZA 250 BOUTIQUES, 30 RESTAURANTS AND SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Apple Store · Berluti · Bottega Veneta · Brioni · Burberry Bvlgari · Canali · Cartier · Céline · Chanel · Charlotte Olympia Chopard · Coach · Cole Haan · Dior · Dolce&Gabbana Ermenegildo Zegna · Fendi · Gucci · Intermix · IWC · Jimmy Choo John Varvatos · Kate Spade New York · Lanvin · Louis Vuitton Microsoft · Oliver Peoples · Rimowa · Roger Vivier · Rolex Salvatore Ferragamo · Stuart Weitzman · Sur La Table · The Webster Tiffany & Co. · Tod’s · Tory Burch · Tumi · Vacheron Constantin Valentino · Weekend by Max Mara · Williams-Sonoma AnQi by House of An · The Capital Grille · Din Tai Fung Mastro’s Steakhouse · Seasons 52 · Vaca Saks Fifth Avenue · Bloomingdale’s · Nordstrom · Macy’s partial listing

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VISIT

W YLAND

welcome a note from the editor

G A L L E R I ES L AG U N A

B E AC H

HOME OF THE WORLD’S PREMIERE MARINE LIFE ARTIST

Children of the Sea Original oil painting and bronze sculpture by Wyland ©

Wyland Galleries 509 South Coast Highway z Laguna Beach, CA 92651 800-WYLAND-1 OPEN DAILY 9 AM TO 8 PM

www.wyland.com

Slap carnitas on a tortilla, slather on hot sauce, I’m good. Russet-colored juices from a chorizo taco staining my fingers, even better. Whole-roast-pig Taco Tuesday at Who Song and Larry’s in Anaheim? I’m there.

Yet it dawns on me that a disproportionate number of the best tacos at the county’s best taco venues have no meat in them at all. Consider

Whole-roast-pig Taco Tuesday at Who Song and Larry’s? I’m there. Yet it dawns on me that a disproportionate number of O.C.’s best tacos have no meat in them at all.

Follow Wyland

VLADIMIR PERLOVICH

TACO’N ’BOUT...

the Jardineros with shiitake mushroom “chorizo” jam and queso fundido on blue tortillas at Carlos Salgado’s Taco María in Costa Mesa, mesmerizing in terms of flavor interest, or the Calabazita taco with Mexican squash and oyster mushrooms on epazoteinfused green tortillas at Danny Godinez’s acclaimed Anepalco in Orange. (Talk about interesting: Godinez’s new El Mercado Modern Cuisine in Santa Ana serves tacos in broth; see p. 8). New spots confirm the trend: Although the shrimp tamarindo at Puesto in Irvine is fairly spectacular, the zucchini-andcactus taco with crispy melted cheese is the standout among non-“especialidads,” and the crispy tofu taco with lime samba and chimichurri at fast-casual TLT Food in Newport Beach eclipses its meat-filled brethren. Wait— aren’t editor’s notes supposed to talk about what’s in the magazine? Doesn’t this issue focus on the new wave of brunches (p. 12) and breakfast spots (p. 16)? Tacos and morning meals aren’t mutually exclusive. Waterman’s Harbor in Dana Point and Sapphire Laguna, for instance, serve blackened fish tacos at their brunches, and breakfast tacos are all the rage. Check out the Spanish-chorizo taco with scrambled eggs at new Tanner’s in Huntington Beach (p. 32)—chock-full of chorizo but elegantly presented so there’s none of the stain.

—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

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where magazine

publisher EDITOR

Jeff Levy

Benjamin Epstein

ART DIRECTOR

Carol Wakano

PRODUCTION ARTIST

Diana Gonzalez

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Roger Grody, Amina Karwa, Zoe Lorenzo, Priscilla Mayfield, Katherine Nguyen

Take your time, and take it all in. Experience the best theme parks Southern California has to offer, in an easy-to-use admission card — all at a huge savings.

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Heather Heintz, Heather Price, Kerry Brewer, Tim Egan, Julie Hoffman, Jessica Levin Poff, Crystal Sierra Business manager

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where Orange County

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EMAIL Advertising JLevy@WhereOC.com Editorial Benjamin.Epstein@WhereOC.com Art Art@WhereOC.com Production Ads@WhereOC.com Website Christina.Xenos@WhereOC.com Circulation Laura.Okey@WhereOC.com Plan ahead for your next visit to Orange County.

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Contact: Laura Okey 714.825.1700 © 2016 Southern California Media Group. All Rights reserved Published by Southern California Media Group. Printed in the United States. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved.

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On the Web: socalpulse.com winter 2017 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 5

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WHERE CALENDAR WINTER 2017 Search the full calendar at SoCalPulse.com

Top Stops BEFORE A NIGHT OUT: BLOW OUT!

THROUGH JAN. 8 REINING SPECTACLE

Cavalia’s Odysseo, the world’s largest touring production, is an immersive experience that marries the equestrian and theatrical arts on an enormous stage. It layers live music, acrobatics and aerial stunts with video projections on a screen three times the size of the largest cinema’s; the setting includes a three-story mountain and a real lake that magically appears for the splashing finale. More than 65 magnificent horses and 48 riders, acrobats, dancers and musicians transport spectators to a world of beauty, grace and magic. p. 50

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GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED

1 BOAT PARADE > DEC. 14-18 More than 100 decorated vessels large and small cruise the harbor for the 108th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Newport Harbor, 949.729.4400, christmasparadeboats.com

HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.

4 MOBY DICK > JAN. 20-FEB. 19 Stage adaptation of Melville’s masterpiece about Captain Ahab. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555, scr.org 5 DANCING WITH THE STARS > FEB. 14 The ABC series’ live tour offers ballroom, modern dance and, for Valentine’s Day, romantic sequences, too. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org

2 DISNEY ON ICE > DEC. 21-25 Ice spectacular Worlds of Enchantment (left) showcases characters from Cars, Toy Story 3, Little Mermaid and Frozen. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com

6 ANAHEIM DUCKS > FEB. 19 The team faces off against its freeway rival, the Los Angeles Kings. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com

3 MATILDA THE MUSICAL > JAN. 17-29 Extraordinary girl alters her destiny using her sharp mind and vivid imagination. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org

7 FRIDA KAHLO PHOTOS > OPENS FEB. 25 First and only prints of 241 photographs—by such creatives as Edward Weston and Tina Modotti— collected by Kahlo. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600, bowers.org

ELYSE WALKER The chandeliers at Elyse Walker’s second boutique (her first is in Pacific Palisades) at Lido Marina Village are chainmail. Though the luxury shop, which carries lines such as Balenciaga and Victoria Beckham and has a fine-jewelry vault, is huge, the salon has but two chairs. The vibe: Come hang. 3444 Via Lido, Newport Beach, 949.612.2646 DRYBAR AT MIRAVEL SPA No cuts. No color. Just blow-outs, and a glass of Champagne, at this spot inside the luxurious new spa at Monarch Beach Resort. There are add-ons, however, including a scalp massage and reparative Mudslide Treatment.

The Shirley Temple is for girls 3 to 10. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3900

CAVALIA , JAK WONDERLY. L AVENDER , RYAN GARVIN

HOT DATES

LAVENDER SALON AND BLOW-DRY BAR Enjoy a blow-dry, updo and makeup, as well as other treatments, beneath chandeliers and with a Kir Royale or coffee in a porcelain Hermès cup (below).

Then browse vintage Chanel handbags. Look for the lavender RollsRoyce out front. 1617 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.515.2900

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SHEETS SO COMFORTABLE YOU WILL WANT TO LIVE IN THEM

ALL HIGH THREAD COUNT SHEETS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL We use only Giza 45 Egyptian cotton luxe sateen which is made from the longest of the long-stapled cottons. This is true luxury and comfort, the best Italy has to offer.

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where now orange county

THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, ATTRACTIONS, SHOPPING AND DINING

DINING

TOUR DE MEXICO Acclaimed Anepalco chef Danny Godinez and partner José Cerrudo unveil their longand highly anticipated El Mercado Modern Cuisine in downtown Santa Ana. The concept: Offer shared-plate specialties from each of Mexico’s 31 states, giving them a contemporary spin, in a hip and comfortable space.

Godinez is up to 18, notably Chihuahua tacos orientales (left), Michoacán pig ears, Puebla mole chicken served in the shape of Mexico, and a dreamy Jalisco eggnog custard.

Bar manager Cesar Cerrudo delivers superb Montelobos Mezcal cocktails, including the Italian Wolf, which arrives under a licorice-smoke-filled glass with Galliano, marsala, citrus, agave and almond. p. 40

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Lapu Lapu at the Royal Hawaian; right, Moulin pantry

LAGUNA REBOOT Laguna Beach is a hotbed of restaurant activity right now—reopenings as well as openings. Harvest, the fine-dining room at the historic and newly relaunched Ranch of Laguna Beach, offers fare inspired by California’s organic farming and ranching amid golf and canyon views (p. 34). The Royal Hawaiian first opened its doors in 1947 and remained a Laguna Beach institution for nearly six decades before closing; its third incarnation respects the spirit of the Polynesian-themed original, bringing back its famed Lapu Lapu cocktail and adding lots of fun Tiki-chic touches (p. 34). Asada is back as well, now serving its tacos in the Boat Canyon center (p. 44). Asada sibling Reunion Kitchen + Drink (p. 34), serving modern American cuisine in Anaheim Hills, and oh-so-French Moulin Bistro (p. 36), a breakfast and lunch favorite in Newport Beach, both unveil Laguna locations.

MOULIN, MARC WEISBURG

Rockin’ Ramen A bowl of ramen may be comforting, but many aficionados prefer theirs with a kick that takes them right out of that zone; several spots along a developing Costa Mesa ramen corridor can oblige.

New Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai has 57 restaurants in Japan; this is its first in the United States (891 Baker St., 714.557.2947).

Its green-chili shio ramen comes with tender chashu pork, nappa, garlic and Asian chives; add spicy green onion and umami chili flakes. Globally popular Hakata Ikoussha Ramen, twice Hong Kong's Ultimate Ramen champion, also opened its first U.S. location in Costa Mesa (3033 Bristol St., 714.540.2066). Its God

Fire ramen offers tonkotsu broth in four levels of spiciness, “spicy fire” thin noodles, chashu and wood-ear mushrooms. Think of the broth at Ramen Yamadaya as liquid pork (1175 Baker St., 714.556.0091). The spicy tonkotsu comes with chashu, bamboo shoots, green onions and egg; Level 3 adds cayenne powder, chili paste and chili threads.

Spicy tonkotsu at Ramen Yamadaya

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WHERE NOW / orange

county OUT + ABOUT

A Bright Light Landscape painter Anna Althea Hills (1882–1930) was one of the artists who helped put Laguna Beach on the map as an art colony during the first decades of the 20th century. Miss Hills of Laguna Beach, through Jan. 15 at Laguna Art Museum, showcases more than 60 of her paintings along with documentary materials. When she arrived, her palette was muted, suited to the atmosphere of England and northern Europe; once in California, she responded to its bright light and colorful landscape and was fond of portraying dramatic cloud effects. p. 52

Anna Hills, High Tide, Laguna Beach (1914)

The latest Dancing With the Stars Live tour—We Came to Dance, Feb. 14 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa—brims with romantic performances befitting Valentine’s Day as well as the exciting ballroom and modern dance sequences that are the hallmark of the ABC show.

The cast includes Lindsay Arnold, Artem Chigvintsev, Sharna Burgess, Val Chmerkovskiy, Emma Slater and Jenna Johnson. Misty

Copeland and Herman Cornejo lead the openingnight cast of the American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker, Dec. 9-18 at the center. “Choreographer Alexei Ratmansky has made his own Christmas miracle," wrote the Los Angeles Times following last year's performances, “a joyful ‘Nutcracker’ ballet that is ravishing and clever enough to inspire multiple viewings.” The Pacific Symphony accompanies. p. 50

Misty Copeland in ABT’s The Nutcracker

ART, COLLECTION DIANE NESLEY

ON THEIR TOES

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SHOPPING

Gunn Guide New Zealand-­based heritage menswear brand Rodd & Gunn has opened its first U.S. boutique at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. Known for its traditionally tailored shirts, knitwear, Italian leather shoes, bespoke leather luggage and stylish accessories, Rodd & Gunn uses the finest Italian fabrics and yarns from around the world to produce its collection of luxe linens, denims, cottons, wools and leathers.

1129 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.2677

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A

Brunch Awakens

Brunch, where calorie-counting is discouraged and drinking before noon is de rigueur, is the most decadent meal of the week. By ROGER GRODY

Chicken-andwaffles at Lillie’s Q in Brea. Opposite: Brunch at the Winery in Newport Beach.

LILLIE’S Q IS A WEST COAST edition of a Chicago barbecue eatery named for chef/owner Charlie McKenna’s grandmother; she was the one who taught South Carolina native McKenna to cook authentic Southern dishes. Although the chef was classically trained and was a cook at some of the nation’s top kitchens, this is the kind of soulful food he appreciates most. The Brea kitchen is overseen by chef de cuisine Kody Havener, whose cooking was inspired by his own grandmother.

Havener offers a Sunday buffet featuring some of Lillie’s Q’s most popular à la carte dishes.

“Barbecue and Southern food are well suited for buffet-style brunches because they’re comfort foods,” says the young chef.

“Everyone loves it when they have a dish that takes them back to their childhood,” he says. “I spent a lot of time at my grandparents’ house as a kid, always watching my grandmother cook. She always enjoyed the look on our faces when she brought out her waffles.”

Havener’s chicken-and-waffles—using beerbattered and fried chicken, his family’s waffle recipe and premium Vermont maple syrup—is a signature short-order dish offered in addition to the buffet, as is Southern eggs Benedict with fried green tomato and “Hot Mess” hollandaise.

He thinks a new generation of diners has discovered brunch and is looking for good value, diversity and excitement. His buffet spread offers a plethora of starters and side dishes, including pork rinds with pimento cheese powder, creamy stone-ground grits, biscuits and sausage gravy, collard greens and cinnamon-nutmeg pancakes.

At a carving board, USDA Prime brisket, smoked turkey breast and a third meat (e.g., tri-tip or honey ham) are dispensed, all benefiting from the addition of one of half a dozen Lillie’s Q barbecue sauces. Guests also fill their aluminum trays with Southern-style coleslaw, crimsoncolored Kool-Aid pickles and, for dessert, a buildyour-own seasonal berry shortcake.

THE NEWPORT BEACH LOCATION of The Winery is the place to enjoy a leisurely brunch in a beautiful setting. With its refined cuisine and superlative wine program, this restaurant hints at Napa Valley, but an outdoor deck with a waterfront view reminds us this is quintessential coastal Orange County.

Executive chef Yvon Goetz hails from France’s Alsace region; he honed his skills at Strasburg’s three Michelin-starred Au Crocodile. His recently launched Sunday brunch includes a seafood

A BORING PHOTO PHOTOGRAPHY. OPPOSITE: COURTESY THE WINERY

lthough it occurs in the light of day, brunch can be decadent and sexy, with a leisurely pace that cannot exist within the time constraints of the workweek. It also encourages the breaking of inconvenient rules governing issues such as calorie-counting and the consumption of alcoholic beverages before noon. Whether it is croissants and café au lait at the beach or a blowout buffet at a grand hotel, brunch is being rediscovered, and Orange County offers new and often unexpected opportunities to maximize its enjoyment.

In the old days, brunch was generally consumed at a hotel, more than likely at a lavish buffet that put most diners out of commission for the remainder of the day. Such brunches, which can be costly both for host hotels and consumers, have begun to disappear from the scene—outside of Las Vegas, that is—and millennials are looking for other ways to enjoy the meal. Now the kinds of places that never used to serve brunch—we’re talking pizzerias and barbecue joints—reimagine the weekend tradition.

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new wave brunching Angelina’s 8573 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine 949.536.5200

Lillie’s Q 240 S. Brea Blvd.

Brea, 714.482.2001 Pizzeria Ortica 650 Anton Blvd.

Costa Mesa 714.445.4900 Water Grill 3300 Bristol St. Costa Mesa 949.208.7060 Waterman’s Harbor 34661 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point 949.764.3474 The Winery 3131 W. Coast Hwy. Newport Beach 949.999.6622

tower and a wild white shrimp risotto studded with crispy prosciutto and finished with a fruity pinot noir reduction.

Goetz was unfamiliar with the American brunch tradition when he arrived in the States in 1991 yet was responsible for a lavish buffet at the Ritz-Carlton in Boston. “I quickly fell in love with the concept; now I’m kind of an eggs Benedict freak,” he says. At the Winery, he adds, “people dock their boats and enjoy lingering on the patio overlooking the water.… You can’t beat it!” While guests take in the view, they are inclined to sip mimosas or a distinctive bloody mary infused with a red-wine reduction.

Naturally, Goetz offers a version of the tarte flambée (Alsatian pizza) he grew up with, and his beloved eggs Benedict—with choice of pork belly, lump crab, smoked salmon or duck confit—bathed in a sun-dried-tomato hollandaise. He transforms his acclaimed zinfandel-braised short ribs into a hash with fried eggs. Kids gravitate to the almond croissant crème brûlée French toast, plated with fresh berries, applewood-smoked bacon and berry-zinfandel syrup. Dessert: beignets with a trio of dipping sauces.

BRUNCH AT A PIZZERIA IS UNCONVENTIONAL, but executive chef Justin Miller’s mentorship by David Myers instilled a strong culture of innovation, and he pulls it off with aplomb at Costa Mesa’s Pizzeria Ortica. Miller has reinvented the spot through his commitment to premium seasonal ingredients even as he continues to bring fine-dining concepts down to earth to make it one of the county’s most significant restaurants.

At Ortica’s Sunday brunch, guests pair handcrafted cocktails with shareable plates such as braised and sliced pork-belly agrodolce (sweet and sour) and squash blossoms stuffed with lemon

Above: Doit-yourself chocolatefountain fruit dippers at Lillie Q’s in Brea Top left: Braised pork belly with aleppo peppers, chimichurri and escabeché at Waterman’s Harbor in Dana Point

ricotta, tomato, basil and garlic. A complimentary basket of fresh-baked morning buns with tomato conserva and Parmigiano-Reggiano arrives at every table courtesy of sous chef Colleen Flynn.

Miller offers a frittata with rapini, pancetta, potato and Parmigiano-Reggiano; topping pizzas from the 800-degree wood-burning oven with fennel sausage or a Chino Valley egg makes them very brunch-appropriate. Miller is particularly proud of his house-made fennel sausage with braised cavolo nero, Calabrian chilies and poached eggs, describing it as “a great cure for a hangover.” The rustic Italian cuisine suggests “Sunday dinners at home with mom.”

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TOP, AMY BORING / A BORING PHOTO. OPPOSITE: TOP, ANNE WATSON; BOTTOM, A BORING PHOTO

Inspired by memorable brunches he has enjoyed elsewhere, Miller insists on a leisurely pace at Ortica. At chef Naomi Pomeroy’s Beast in Portland, he recalls, “everything was extremely local, made that morning and delicious, and you shared wine with strangers at communal tables. Life slowed down—it was like you were eating in somebody’s living room.”

Because Pizzeria Ortica is so close to South Coast Plaza, brunch pairs well with another weekend tradition—shopping— or with a matinee at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, a five-minute walk.

ALSO SERVING BRUNCH is the Irvine location of Angelina’s Pizzeria, operated

by Filippo and Sho Fusco, whose family is from the town of Piedimonte San Germano in the rolling hills north of Naples. Mozzarella from Naples, San Marzano tomatoes and specialty flour are used to create pizza Napoletana in a 900-degree oven fueled by almond wood.

Chief operating officer Antonio Bevacqua, also Tuscan, recommends the salad of grilled octopus and Mediterranean shrimp as well as the pan-seared scallops with mango carpaccio, vanilla oil and pepperoncino. Angelina’s breakfast pizza is topped with buffalo mozzarella, a runny egg and choice of sausage, guanciale or spinach.

House-made waffles are topped with whipped cream, strawberries and banana and drizzled with honey; a fried calzone is stuffed with fruit and Nutella.

Angelina’s also hosts a family-style Social Brunch for families or groups, featuring pizzas, frittatas, waffles and ricotta- and spinachstuffed ravioli, along with carafes of mimosas or Bellinis.

The pizzeria at new Los Olivos Marketplace is a glitzier, marbleclad version of the original, more intimate Dana Point establishment.

IN A BUILDING PREVIOUSLY OCCUPIED by the Jolly Roger, a landmark from a bygone era, Waterman’s Harbor has revitalized Dana Point Harbor with its local fresh seafood.

Executive chef Michael Doctulero, who earned accolades at the now-shuttered Scott’s in Costa Mesa, turns out a sophisticated but soulful style of seafood cookery. Longtime surfer Doctulero’s keen appreciation for the ocean habitat informs his menus and influences how he sources seafood. Significantly, Waterman’s Harbor is one of those rare restaurants that butchers its own fish, even 75-pound bluefin delivered directly from local fishermen.

“Unlike the buffets at nearby hotels, our brunch is plated, which makes for a more personal, service-oriented experience,” says Doctulero. He observes brunch making a major resurgence, especially with younger diners, and no matter the age of the patron, Waterman’s Harbor’s spectacular views are a natural draw.

Doctulero is innovative but maintains a clean and simple style that allows his premium-quality proteins to be showcased—a philosophy that works particularly well with brunch.

The pulled-pork pancakes, with a fried egg, vanilla-bean syrup and green onions, have become a signature brunch dish. “They’ve developed a cult following,” says the chef, “similar to when chickenand-waffles first came out, and customers can’t wait to come

Above: Squash blossoms at Pizzeria Ortica in Costa Mesa Below: Breakfast pizza with guanciale at Angelina’s Pizzeria in Irvine

back for more.” Also popular is fried calamari Provençale, an item Doctulero brought over from Scott’s; it features a spiked beurre blanc sauce.

Other dishes on the chef’s compelling brunch menu include starters such as succulent crab beignets and “chowder fries,” a whimsical take on poutine. For larger plates, consider shrimpcake Benedict with cheesy house fries, or prized Akaushi flank steak with red wine-poached eggs.

Aleppo peppers make for a spirited chimichurri that is drizzled over braised pork belly; sweet corn grits are topped with blackened shrimp.

COSTA MESA’S JUST-OPENED Water Grill, ensconced in a spectacular new $12 million building in the shadow of South Coast Plaza, is on the site previously occupied by Scott’s.

If pizzerias and barbecue joints are inconsistent with your nostalgic ideas of brunch, look no further than this spot—a go-to place for upmarket seafood in downtown L.A.—for a more traditional brunch.

After selecting from an array of brunch-appropriate cocktails, consider crab Benedict, lemonricotta pancakes or alluring salmon rillettes with crème fraîche, mustard, dill and tobiko caviar.

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Breakfast rises and shines in Orange County as half a dozen new eateries suggest that the most important meal of the day can also be the most fun and intriguing.

By KATHERINE NGUYEN

Breakfasts such as pancakes and bacon and eggs may never go out of style. But at a bevy of new breakfast spots, they’re relegated to the sidelines or given creative spins on par with those of top-notch dinner destinations.

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

>The lines, from the moment the Tustin spot opens at 6:30, do not lie. Consider the breakfast pot pie: a golden flaky puff pastry heaped with house-made rosemarysausage gravy, optionally crowned with a sunny-side-up egg for the ultimate morning comfort dish. Eggs Benedict your thing?

Snooze offers six kinds. The Chili Verde Benny finds two poached eggs on a stack of green-chili-sauced tortillas with slowcooked pork, melted cheese, green-chili

hollandaise, pico de gallo and cotija cheese.

Or go Italian with the Bella! Bella! Benny: two poached eggs atop toasted ciabatta with prosciutto, Taleggio cheese, balsamic glaze and arugula. Snooze’s pancake and French toast varieties are yawn-stoppers, too. Among the former are sweet-potato pancakes, blueberry Danish pancakes and for those who don’t decide easily, a pancake flight of three. Those for whom “decadent breakfast” is not an oxymoron will appreciate the OMG! French toast—fluffy brioche stuffed with mascarpone, griddled and topped with salted caramel, fresh strawberries, toasted coconut and vanilla cream.

Get into the spirits early with eye-opening coffee cocktails such as the Dirty Drunken Chai, made with Bhakti chai, espresso, steamed milk, coffee liqueur and Cruzan

rum. The Market Place, 3032 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.415.6269, snoozeeatery.com

Outpost Kitchen

>Set amid a cluster of warehouses and industrial buildings in Costa Mesa, this gem of an eatery defies the usual location-is-key logic. The yearling is a local favorite, thanks to simple but winsome fare from Aussie owner Jay Lewis. Case in point: the Aussie Style Scramble, wherein the egg dish is elevated with oven-roasted tomato and prosciutto.

Even for granola fans, its house-made version with sesame, toasted hazelnuts, honey, yogurt, almond milk and seasonal berries is a bowl of unexpected bliss; fans of a good latte should consider its Australian counterpart, the flat white. For those on the run, there’s the grab-and-go Original Sin

LEFT AND RIGHT, CHAD SALVADOR. CENTER, ASHLEY DAVID PHOTOGRAPHY. OPPOSITE, KAT NGUYEN

Breaking Good

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LEFT AND RIGHT, CHAD SALVADOR. CENTER, ASHLEY DAVID PHOTOGRAPHY. OPPOSITE, KAT NGUYEN

Granola bowl at Outpost Kitchen in Costa Mesa.

Opposite: Snooze, an A.M. Eatery in Tustin, eggs Benedict at center.

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it dribble over the sides for an Insta-worthy meal. 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920; 248 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6990. moulinbistro.com

smoothie, which blends banana, matcha green tea, dates, spinach and cashews. 1792 Monrovia Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.873.5123, outpostkitchen.com

Stacks Pancake House

>Breakfast gets a Hawaiian twist at these spots, where there are lots of choices for those who like to start their day with dessert. The house special is Captain Mac Nut French Toast: slices of King’s Hawaiian bread dipped in batter and crusted in crispy Cap’n Crunch cereal and macadamia nuts.

Among more savory options are the Kalua Pork Benedict and the Loco Moco, the Aloha State’s famed staple dish of rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg and gravy.

The restaurant comes by its name honestly: Nearly a dozen kinds of pancakes include macadamia-banana, coconutpineapple, blueberry, chocolate-chip and Oreo cookie versions—in addition to weekly and seasonal offerings such as blueberryricotta, orange marmalade-coconut, Snickers and red velvet. 4421 Culver Drive, Irvine, 949.679.1233; 27680 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.218.4600; 34255 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.429.2222. stackspancakehouse.com

Restaurant Marin

>For those who want a gourmet breakfast for lunch or dinner, Restaurant Marin is the place: Breakfast is served from 9 a.m. to midnight. The cozy dining space makes you feel

as if you’ve been invited to eat in someone’s posh home, with sea blue tiles, deep sapphire booths and pristine white everywhere else.

Everything that comes out of the kitchen has that extra bit of oomph and attention to detail from chef Noah Blöm. The blueberry pancakes, for example, aren’t a pile of thin discs but thick, cake-like slabs bursting with ripe berries for a rich, dessert-like indulgence.

Speaking of eye-popping presentation, the muffin sandwich is not as dainty as its name might suggest. Instead, what arrives is a mile-high stack of fried egg, melted cheddar, thick bacon and wilted spinach— all between two substantial puffs of housemade muffin. You’ll need a fork and knife— and, ideally, two or three mouths. South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.402.3974, restaurantmarin.com

Moulin Bistro

>Laurent Vrignaud’s award-winning French bistro has landed in Laguna Beach, and it’s every bit as charming and authentic as the original in Newport Beach. In addition to the café’s classic patisserie and boulangerie offerings, the new location offers made-toorder crepes and waffles.

That said, the croque madame remains a must-try: delicate Paris-imported ham nestled between slices of cheese-blistered pain de mie and béchamel sauce. It’s essentially the best-ever grilled ham and cheese taken to the next level with a sunny-side-up egg.

Go ahead, puncture the egg yolk and watch

>When nothing but waffles will do, head to this spot in Newport Beach. You’ll encounter at least 15 kinds of waffles to suit your fancy, everything from traditional buttermilk and chocolate chip to gluten-free corncake, not to mention rotating and seasonal specials such as maple bacon glazed, pumpkin spice, bananas Foster and red velvet and cream cheese.

But it’s the savory waffles that really shine, from the warm and crisp waffle with gooey Gruyère and bits of salty prosciutto baked right into the batter to the sausageand-Vermont-cheddar waffle that begs only for a splash of maple syrup. Best of all, the waffles are made to order, from scratch. 1064 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.8155, thewaffleaffair.com

COURTESY MARIN. COURTESY MOULIN. OPPOSITE: TAWNY ALIPOON PHOTOGRAPHY

Waffle Affair

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Savory waffles at the Waffle Affair in Newport Beach.

Opposite: (above) blueberry pie with vanilla-bean whipped cream and chef Noah Blรถm; (below) croque madame at Moulin Bistro in Laguna Beach.

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OUT FOR A DRIVE General managers and PGA pros talk about the holes they love and the holes they love to hate.

By JOHN WEYLER

The most difficult hole on Pelican Hill’s Ocean South Course: No. 18

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Golf is so difficult, so frustrating, yet we manage to focus on a few positives—that one birdie, or the memory of cool sea air against your cheek. There are few places that a golfer would rather be than looking down the fairway, considering risks and rewards, ready to take another swing. We asked insiders about their favorite and most challenging holes.

ANAHEIM HILLS GOLF COURSE Anaheim / 6,266 yards / Par 71 Cameron M. Carr, PGA, General Manager

What makes the course unique “Anaheim Hills is a relatively short par 71, but it has some teeth and plays pretty tough for most golfers.

The change in elevation is what we’re known for, as well as multiple blind tee shots that give the course its distinctive character." Favorite hole “No. 15. It’s a short par 4, only 366 yards, with an elevated tee box and some spectacular views. It’s a great hole because of the dramatic downhill tee shot to a narrow fairway. It’s always fun to see your ball stay in the air for a couple extra seconds.” Hardest hole “Although it isn’t rated the course's hardest, in my book No. 5 plays the toughest.

It’s a daunting, 254-yard downhill par 3 that typically plays into the wind. For the average golfer, it’s a driver or at least a 3-wood. The best [plan] is to hit your 225-yard club, favoring the right side. If you hit it well, it will kick up onto the green for a birdie chance. If you don’t hit the shot perfect, you’ll be short and right of the green, which leaves you with the easiest chip or pitch to try to get a par. A par is golden on this tough hole!”

PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Newport Coast / Ocean North Course / 6,481 yards / Par 71 Ocean South Course / 6,200 yards Par 70 / Steve Friedlander, General Manager

What makes the courses unique “Tom Fazio designed both courses to fit into the environment like they've been here for hundreds of years, using the natural elevation changes and natural coastal sage scrub environment to perfection.

There are ocean views from all 36

holes. Three Ocean South holes are on bluffs right on the ocean.

We have a professional forecaddie program and the best-conditioned greens in SoCal. Did I mention the Tom Fazio design and the Pacific Ocean?” Favorite hole (North) “No. 12, because I made a hole in one on it…. Actually, No. 17 is a favorite of mine and of many guests, a terrific three-shot par 5 with great risk/ reward challenges starting with the tee shot. How close to the bunker on the right do you want to risk to be rewarded with a shorter second shot? Each of the three shots necessary to set up a birdie has risk/reward opportunities.

The green complex looks like it’s on the edge of the world with the ocean in the background.” Favorite hole (South) “No. 13, one of Tom Fazio’s best designs of a short par 3. Mostly because there are two greens surrounded by sand to make them look like islands. They are on the bluff right on the ocean; the views forever in every direction are spectacular.” Hardest hole (North) “No. 9 demands an excellent tee shot to a narrowing fairway protected by a bunker at the end of the fairway, then an approach with a mid- to long iron or hybrid into an elevated green complex with a false front, protected by a deep bunker right and tight collars left. A par on No. 9 is a great score. It takes two great shots and two great putts; Fazio created terrific illusions on the green, and it is always faster than it looks.” Hardest hole (South) “No. 18, an incredible finishing hole demanding a perfect and long tee shot and then a mid- to long iron or hybrid of all carry distance into an elevated green, one of the larger and more undulated greens at Pelican Hill.

The green is protected by several

bunkers front right and left, and it’s very challenging to read the many breaks. The view from the tee box is spectacular, as is the view from the green looking back to the ocean. All of the senses are engaged, and many a bet has been won or lost on No. 18 South.”

STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF CLUB Irvine / 6,276 yards / Par 71 Tom McCray, Head Professional

What makes the course unique “The conditions of Strawberry Farms are among the county’s best, and the beauty of the landscape is always part of a golf shop conversation with new customers. These aesthetics, accompanied with the challenge of the Jim Lipe design, make it something you do not want to miss. Keep your eyes open, because many major-league ballplayers and NFL stars come to visit our course developer, former Angel third baseman Doug DeCinces.” Favorite hole “My favorite hole, No. 10, is a short par 4 on top of the banks of the reservoir, looking down at what seems a very narrow fairway. You can take a driver over the bunkers, leaving yourself a short wedge approach, or play safe with a layup. Any pull or push on a driver shot will lead to a hazardy grave and a drop area third swing. Views in every direction are the best on the course.” Hardest hole “Hole No. 12 is the county's longest hole. It’s a dogleg left, uphill, 630-yard par 5 with a hazard playing the entire length of the right side. You need to play three long shots to reach in regulation. Make sure your fairway woods are tuned up at the range before teeing off. The yardage off the course GPS system is accurate, but you’ll need to add at least one club on your approach due to the elevation of the putting surface.”

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EXPLORING

Metro Cities

COSTA MESA, A RETAIL, CULTURAL AND BUSINESS CENTER, ADJOINS IRVINE AND SANTA ANA, THE COUNTY SEAT.

➺Where is the heart of Orange County? Irvine, home of the historic Irvine Ranch, is O.C.’s financial Costa Mesa

On one side of Bristol Street is South Coast Plaza, whose annual sales, nearly $2 billion, are highest among the nation’s shopping destinations. On the other is the county’s center of culture—two concert halls and its largest repertory theater—and business high-rises.

The late Henry Segerstrom and his family founded South Coast Plaza in 1967 on a lima bean field where as a youth he’d driven a tractor. Today, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. The state-designated tourist attraction has the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers. The Webster luxury boutique is new. Excellent dining options include Din Tai Fung and, across Bristol Street, Vaca, from Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana, and new Water Grill.

It’s an easy walk to the “arts campus,” the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, South Coast Repertory and, in the future, Orange County Museum of Art. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts, built in 1986 mainly with Segerstrom money on Segerstrom land, includes 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall, presenting a range of genres including dance and Broadway musicals, and the newer Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall, a 2,000seat facility designed by Cesar Pelli that hosts events as diverse as tributes to Mahler and

Paul McCartney. There are two intimate venues, Founders Hall and Samueli Theater.

Renowned South Coast Repertory, with three stages inside its David Emmes and Martin Benson Theatre Center, opened at its present location in 1978, also with Segerstrom family donations. Among Town Center’s professional buildings is one of the nation’s premier collections of outdoor art. Start, or end, at the 1.6-acre California Scenario (near Anton Boulevard) by sculptor Isamu Noguchi.

Metro Pointe and South Coast Plaza Village—whose movie theater offers top foreign films—are a crosswalk away. All three centers are accessible from North or South County hotels by dedicated taxi and motor coach service, and Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner delivers visitors to the Santa Ana train station.

To the west is the South Coast Collection of design showrooms such as Design Within Reach and new Room & Board. Foodies frequent Surfas Culinary District, Arc restaurant and the Saturday farmers market. The hip OC Mix features 30 vendors including Alexander Gray eyewear, the Mixing Glass, new Farm & Culture Co. kombucha and broth bar and Taco María for sophisticated chicano fare.

South on Bristol are The Lab and The Camp. The Lab has the kinds of shops you’d likely find on L.A.’s hip Melrose Avenue.

Popbar gelato-on-a-stick is new; Red & Blue Vintage opens presently. Opposite is the

Camp, set amid wood and aluminum. Dining options include Old Vine Café, Vitaly for Italian sandwiches and gelato and Taco Asylum for unusual tacos.

Dine-and-play center The Triangle offers bowling at Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl and dining at Black Knight Gastro Lounge, Saddle Ranch Chop House and La Vida Cantina.

The O.C. Fair & Event Center hosts events year-round, the county fair and concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre in summer.

Santa Ana

Arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Grand Central Art Center. Places such as Playground and new El Mercado Modern Cuisine make for an exciting dining scene.

Find more than a dozen innovative fast-casual dining concepts at 4th Street Market. The bar scene—we favor Lola Gaspar—is burgeoning, too. The East End also features the Yost Theater concert venue. Historical highlights include the Queen Anne-style home of Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle, and the Old County Courthouse, a setting for numerous movies.

Bowers Museum, founded in 1936, offers blockbuster exhibitions mounted with the world’s major museums. Visitors also view pre-Columbian artifacts, Pacific Island art and a permanent exhibit of local history—and dine at the Patina Group’s Tangata.

DISCOVERY CUBE, DHRUMIL DESAIW; OC MIX, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; IRVINE SPECTRUM, EDWIN SANTIAGO

hub. Santa Ana is the county seat. Tustin’s massive twin hangars are near the county’s geographic center.

But Costa Mesa residents would say their city is hands-down the county’s heart and its cultural soul.

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Giant Wheel at Irvine Spectrum Center.

(Opposite from left) Discovery Cube Science Center in Santa Ana, OC Mix at South Coast Collection in Costa Mesa.

Discovery Cube science center has been spectacularly expanded; its namesake tilting cube is perched seemingly inches off Interstate 5. MainPlace houses Macy’s, Nordstrom and 200 shops; a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport, with rooftop basketball court and open-air swimming pool, and Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ are new. Intimate Santa Ana Zoo is in Prentice Park; highlights include a primate exhibit and children’s zoo.

On the Irvine border, and sharing that city’s vibe, is John Wayne Airport, whose pleasant ambience and ease of departure and arrival make it vastly superior to LAX.

Irvine

Irvine offers a relatively problem-free world carved from the Irvine Co.’s land holdings.

Irvine Spectrum Center’s Giant Wheel can be seen for miles along the 5, 405 and 133 freeways. But it’s the center’s 150 shops, many of them entertainment-related, restaurants such as Cucina Enoteca for Cal-Ital and Capital Seafood for Chinese, and the nation’s most visited movie complex that together draw more visitors annually than Disneyland.

UC Irvine’s Irvine Barclay Theatre presents music, dance and theatrical events. Nearby is the UCI Arboretum (Jamboree Road and Campus Drive, 949.824.5833). San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (949.261.7963) offers 10 miles of trails through coastal freshwater marshlands. The Irvine Museum houses Joan Irvine Smith’s collection of California Impressionist art on the ground floor of an office building.

Near the airport, innovative Trade food hall opens presently; its fine-dining anchor, superb Ootoro sushi, is already open. Orange County Great Park offers a farmers market,

an arts complex and a carousel; you can ride 400 feet up in the tethered orange balloon visible from the freeways. The restored blacksmith shop and general store of Old Town Irvine (Sand Canyon Avenue and Burt Road, 949.660.9112) house a hotel and restaurants.

Tustin

Forbes magazine has listed Tustin, which has preserved many of its 1870s buildings, in its Top 25 places “to live well.”

The District at Tustin Legacy, at Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, is a sprawling shopping center. Draws include The Winery and Bluewater Grill restaurants, sip-and-paint

G R E AT F I N D

venue Pinot’s Palette, a cineplex, and bowling at Bowlmor. New Union Market offers an eclectic collection of dining concepts and retailers. The nearby iconic twin hangars are 1,000 feet long and 17 stories tall.

The Market Place (714.730.4124), on Jamboree Road off Interstate 5, is older and even more sprawling. Though often called Tustin Market Place, part of it is actually in Irvine. Texas de Brazil steakhouse is new.

The Marconi Automotive Museum (714.258.3001) displays 80 vehicles, notably Ferraris and historic open-wheel race cars.

For bold items, see the where guide listings.

For neighborhood maps, see page 63.

/ spirits filled

➺The county makes a foray into distilling at Blinking Owl, thanks to lead distiller Ryan

Friesen, locals Robin and Brian Christenson and actress/partner Kirsten Vangsness. The pioneering team has converted a staircase manufacturing space into an art-deco-meetsthe-’70s tasting room offering handcrafted gin, Valencia orange-flavored vodka and an herbaceous aquavit infused with organic hibiscus—the official flower of Santa Ana. Barrel-aged bourbon is on its way. Get spiritual! Tours of the facility can be scheduled on the website.

802 E. Washington Ave., Santa Ana, 714.852.3947, blinkingowldistillery.com

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EXPLORING

The Coast

­­ THE COUNTY’S PRIME BEACH COMMUNITIES INCLUDE NEWPORT BEACH, BALBOA, CORONA DEL MAR AND HUNTINGTON BEACH.

➺Newport Beach offers the county’s most pleasant shopping destination, countless fine restaurants and Newport Beach

Newport Beach and its environs have been called California’s Riviera. Sandy beaches and bougainvillea are a backdrop to yachts and dream homes, from cottages to some of the nation’s most expensive real estate.

Its retail center is Newport Center, near Jamboree Road, Coast Highway and MacArthur Boulevard. Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s are anchors at elegant and relaxed shopping destination Fashion Island.

The Celect boutique is new. Dining options include Sushi Roku, Red O and Hopdoddy Burger Bar. Island Cinema offers leather seats and wine service.

The Orange County Museum of Art, also in Newport Center, focuses on 20th-century California artists, offers thought-provoking shows and throws hip fetes.

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, aka the Back Bay, boasts some 160 species of birds. Hike, bike or jog along 10 miles of trails. Rowing and kayaking are popular; rent equipment from Newport Aquatic Center (949.646.7725). At Newport Dunes, Moe B’s Watersports (949.729.1150) rents kayaks, pedal boats and electric boats.

Newport Beach has the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, on Coast Highway, is lined with dining destinations including The Winery and Pizzeria Mozza, luxury-car showrooms and yacht clubs.

Private charters and narrated harbor cruises, aboard vessels including luxury dining cruisers and ro­mantic gondolas, depart from Mariner’s Mile as well as from Balboa Pavilion (see Balboa, below), and pass huge luxury abodes. All manner of boat rentals are possible, from canoes and kayaks to sailboats, motorboats and surrey-fringed electric boats.

The “beach” in Newport Beach includes two piers, Balboa and Newport, great sandy expanses and one of the cleanest and most colorful bike paths and boardwalks anywhere.

New Lido Marina Village revitalizes a pedestrian-friendly, harborside shopping village with tenants including Elyse Walker and Jenni Kayne boutiques and Alchemy Works gallery. Nobu restaurant opens presently.

The action never stops around Newport Pier, off Newport Boulevard on McFadden Square. Stag Bar (1908) just added a kitchen.

The Dory Fishing Fleet (1889) leaves in the wee hours of the morn; you can visit the open-air fish market after the sun comes up, then have breakfast at the Dory Deli.

Balboa

To reach the Balboa Pier, continue southeast on Newport Boulevard (its name changes to Balboa Boulevard at 22nd Street), turn right on Palm Street and park in the metered lot.

The Wedge, where the peninsula meets the harbor jetty, is one of the world’s most

famous bodysurfing and bodyboarding spots.

Currents and riptides can be dangerous, so don’t go in the water unless you really know what you’re doing. Watching is fun enough.

On the harbor side of Balboa Peninsula is the Balboa Pavilion. Take advantage of the Balboa Bay Front Webcam at Harbour House coffee shop; find a sunny seat outside, call friends in snowbound or humid states, have them log on to talesofbalboa.com and gloat!

The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum has transformed itself into ExplorOcean.

Balboa Pavilion, a 1905 cupola-topped structure, is the de­pot for boat excursions: harbor tours, whale-watching trips and Santa Catalina cruises. As classic pop-song lyrics attest, Catalina, known for its beaches, buffalo and glass-bottom boats, is “26 miles across the sea.” The city of Avalon is 75 minutes away via the catamaran Catalina Flyer.

The Balboa Island Ferry is a three-car shuttle between docks on the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, a tight-knit community featuring charming cottages, shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Marine Avenue is its only nonresidential street. Try a customdipped Balboa Bar or frozen banana.

Corona del Mar

Heading south along Coast Highway takes you past Corona del Mar Plaza, where upscale destinations include Sienna Brown,

BALBOA, ASHOK SINHA; PIER, BENJAMIN GINSBERG; BUNNIES, EDWIN SANTIAGO

gorgeous golf, not to mention its most coveted real estate. Along the coast, you’ll find wide sandy beaches, the world’s largest pleasure-boat harbor, renowned piers and Surf City USA.

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Diane’s for swimwear and Tommy Bahama as well as new gourmet pantry Baker & Olive.

Corona del Mar, whose streets are named for flowers, has expansive beaches and some of the country’s most expensive real estate.

On East Coast Highway, just south of MacArthur Boulevard, is Sherman Library & Gardens, offering 2,000 plant species on two landscaped acres. Consider a repast at Café Jardin or the Tea Garden Crêperie. Coast Highway is lined with elegant design showrooms, rug dealers and boutiques.

To find Corona del Mar State Beach, head south on Marguerite from Coast Highway, turn right on Ocean Boulevard, then follow signs to the parking lot below. You’ll find bodysurfing, volleyball, fire pits and facilities.

Picturesque Little Corona Beach is just south.

South of Corona del Mar is Newport Coast. Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers boutiques such as Atelier 7918 and At Ease for Men and restaurants Bluefin, Mastro’s Ocean Club and, soon, acclaimed French destination Marché Moderne.

Nearby are Crystal Cove State Park, with miles of sandy coves and miles of trails, and gorgeous Pelican Hill Golf Club.

Huntington Beach

Surf City USA is more sophisticated of late.

Though Huntington Beach retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks identity, shops along Main Street, fine-dining options and luxury hotels have made for a dramatic transformation.

Main Street is a promenade with lots of surfwear and beachwear shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. New Pacific City brings acres of retail and dining, notably Kin boutique and Old Crow Smokehouse.

Newport Beach Civic Center.

(Opposite from left) Balboa Bar on Balboa Island; Huntington Beach Pier.

Super-hip lounges include The Bungalow and nearby rooftop Treehouse Lounge. Next to Huntington Beach Pier Plaza are Duke’s and Sandy’s HB restaurants; the plaza hosts art shows, live music and farmers markets.

The area’s three beaches—Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach—are popular for surfing and volleyball and for their fire rings. Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve (714.840.1575) offers 200 species of migratory birds in a salt-marsh setting with a 1.5-mile loop trail.

Inland, at Talbert Avenue and Goldenwest Street, is 350-acre Huntington Central

G R E AT F I N D

Park; the park encompasses Shipley Nature Center (714.842.4772), an equestrian center, two “lakes” and the city’s Central Library (714.842.4481)—which has the largest children’s library in the state.

Tenants at 5 Points Plaza include Loft, Vans and Cloudmover Day Spa; the dog-friendly center even has a barking lot! Draws at Tuscan-themed Bella Terra shopping destination include outdoor-sports specialist REI and Solita for excellent tacos and margaritas. Nearby is Old World Village, hub for all things German, notably dachshund races.

For bold items, see the where guide listings.

For neighborhood maps, see pages 62-63.

/ under stated

➺

Intimates, lounge wear and swimwear brand Eberjey unveils its first boutique on the West Coast at new harbor-side Lido Marina Village. Twenty years ago, co-founders Ali Mejia and Mariela Rovito set out to create “pretty under-things that flattered real bodies and felt good, too.” They succeeded wildly. The boy short became the company’s first musthave lingerie item, followed soon after by girly-sexy-comfy thongs, bralets and camis, then sophisticated lifestyle lines including pajamas and resort wear—all intended to encourage women to feel beautiful from the inside out. 3432 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, eberjey.com

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EXPLORING

South Coast

COLORFUL CITIES ON OR NEAR THE COAST INCLUDE LAGUNA BEACH, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND DANA POINT.

➺Four of the county’s most historic cities are nestled into its southern corner: Laguna Beach, Dana Laguna Beach

It’s fitting that you pass Laguna College of Art + Design as you enter the county’s original art colony along Laguna Canyon Road. Admire the sculptures! In fact, it is easy to spend a day along the thoroughfare before ever entering the city proper, especially during the summer, when it hosts three art festivals— Festival of Arts, Laguna Art-A-Fair and the Sawdust Art Festival—and the renowned “living tableaux” presentation, Pageant of the Masters. Acclaimed Laguna Playhouse offers both comedic and profound fare year-round.

Laguna Canyon Road becomes Broadway, then comes to a T at Main Beach and Coast Highway. Turn left toward downtown or right toward Laguna Art Museum and you’ll find galleries, boutiques and restaurants.

Laguna Art Museum presents modern and contemporary art, mostly by California painters; often explores pop culture; and displays art from Laguna’s past, including lots of seascapes. Steps away are coastal vistas at Heisler Park and a stretch of Coast Highway called North Gallery Row, where you’ll find Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953) and newly reopened Tiki-chic Royal Hawaiian restaurant.

Historical cottages dot the neighborhoods above. On a steep hillside is the Hortense Miller Garden (open by appointment, 22511 Allview Terrace, 949.497.3311, ext. 426).

Main Beach gets action year-round.

There are volleyball and basketball courts, a playground and a boardwalk popular with walkers and joggers, and one more major attraction: The beach is just across the street from scores of the shops and galleries that give the city its distinctive aura.

Must-sees in the downtown heart of Laguna, aka the Village, include the sculpture garden at Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery (326 Glenneyre St., 888.972.5543). South along Coast Highway are top-notch dining options including hockey great Teemu Selänne’s Selanne Steak Tavern, posh Studio at the Montage and new Harvest at the Ranch at Laguna Beach.

Dana Point

Richard Henry Dana, the seaman who wrote 1840’s Two Years Before the Mast, described the area now named for him as “the only romantic spot” on the California coast, noting its “grandeur” and “solemnity.” The grandeur is still there, but you won’t find much solemnity along Harbor Drive, now bustling with boaters, diners, shoppers and those headed to see the tall clipper ships in port.

In addition to its sand and shore, Doheny State Beach offers 5 acres of lawn. Families picnic, couples rent bicycles. An interpretive center focuses on the underwater Doheny State Marine Life Refuge. The beach hosts a

blues festival in May and in summer, Lobsterfest, a surf competition and outrigger racing.

Busiest day of the year? Fourth of July, with fireworks launched from a barge.

Make your way along Harbor Drive to the tide pools at the end of the harbor’s rocky ledge. Public benches are a stone’s throw from seals basking on sea-logged boulders; take in both the quiet beauty of the harbor and the roar of the surf against the rocks.

Dana Point Harbor offers 2,500 slips for vessels of all sizes, three yacht clubs, a fishing pier and Dana Wharf Sportfishing, which also offers whale-watching trips.

The Ocean Institute displays the Pilgrim, a full-sized replica of the brig on which Dana sailed, docked next to the fishing pier. Wharf highlights include the White Pelican for Native American jewelry (34475 Golden Lantern St., 949.240.1991) and the Harbor Grill seafooder.

North of town are luxury hotels featuring superior dining—Stonehill Tavern at the Monarch Beach Resort, and Raya at the RitzCarlton—and pristine Salt Creek Beach Park.

San Juan Capistrano

There’s no beach in this burg, but there’s plenty of history, style and charm. And there is no passing up a visit to Mission San Juan Capistrano, often credited with being the birthplace of Orange County. It was founded

MISSION, EDWIN SANTIAGO; GALLERY, ASHOK SINHA; BEACH, BENJAMIN GINSBERG

Point and San Clemente along Coast Highway, and nearby San Juan Capistrano. Whether for shopping, dining, history or just tantalizing poetic beauty, these small burgs have spectacular offerings.

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by Father Junípero Serra in 1776, the same year America was born. It took nine years to build its Great Stone Church, completed in 1806; it took just a minute for an earthquake to destroy it six years later, killing 40 people.

The priests left the ruins, a dramatic benchmark of the struggle to build California.

The dome atop the nearby rail station was made with stones from the ruins. Priests still celebrate Mass in the Serra Chapel; the original adobe walls shelter a magnificent Baroque altarpiece decorated with 52 carved gold-leaf angels. The 10-acre site is filled with walkways, gardens, fountains and exhibits. Mission events include the renowned Swallows’ Day Parade in March.

Just across the train tracks is the Los Rios Historic District. A stroll along Los Rios Street is a most pleasant experience; 31 homes, the earliest dating to 1794, look as they did in centuries past. Near the train station is the O’Neill Museum (31831 Los Rios St., 949.493.8444), home to the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. The Ramos House Café, in an 1881 board-and-batten house, offers an unforgettable breakfast.

Camino Capistrano is lined with shops and restaurants. One of South County’s most popular taverns is the colorful Swallow’s Inn (31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188).

For a different kind of nightlife, consider the nearby Camino Real Playhouse (31776 El Camino Real, 949.489.8082). San Juan Capistrano Regional Library (31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752) is a postmodern masterpiece by architect Michael Graves.

San Juan Capistrano is the county’s equestrian center; luxurious residences, many with their own stables, surround the city. Eight miles east is Ronald W. Caspers

Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point.

(Opposite from left) Mission San Juan Capistrano; Laguna Beach gallery.

Wilderness Park (33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210).

San Clemente

La Casa Pacifica, President Richard Nixon’s “Western White House,” has long since been broken up into million-dollar homes by a private developer. But one historic home you can still see is Casa Romantica (415 Avenida Granada, 949.498.2139), once the residence of the city’s founder, oil entrepreneur Ole Hanson. On a hillside overlooking San Clemente Pier, it’s now the Cultural Center and Gardens, with galleries and a popular veranda.

From the pier, the sun sets across the blue

G R E AT F I N D

water between Catalina Island and the Dana Point bluffs—just look past the constant stream of surfers. Metrolink and Amtrak trains run alongside the beach and stop at the pier. Find shopping and dining on Avenida del Mar, lined with antique stores and galleries, and El Camino Real, and at the new Outlets at San Clemente, whose tenants include H&M, Calvin Klein, Guess and Nike.

Talega Golf Club (949.369.6226), above the city, was designed with help from Masters champion Fred Couples. Sundried Tomato is among draws at Talega Village Center.

For bold items, see listing in the where guide.

For neighborhood maps, see page 63.

/ salt of the globe

➺

Salt Fine Art specializes in Latin American contemporary art. Its counterpart, Raw Salt, is devoted to emerging global artists, to finding the unprocessed, pure, driven talent that can be the most exciting to experience. They share new quarters in North Laguna’s gallery row and, according to owner Carla Tesak Arzente, share a mission: “Following in the grand tradition of the salt trade, we believe that art, like salt, enhances and therefore deserves to cross borders—country borders, state borders, any and all kinds of lines.” Left: Cecilia Paredes’ photo, Meditative Mermaid. 346 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.5554, saltfineart.net

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EXPLORING

North County

ANAHEIM, BUENA PARK, ORANGE AND FULLERTON OFFER THEME PARKS AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS.

➺Long before orange groves and Walt Disney shaped the landscape of Anaheim, and before Napa Valley

became a household name, German immigrants made the area California’s first wine country. It still fuels high times and joyful memories with world-class attractions that make it the gateway to endless fun.

Making millions of dreams come true every year, Disneyland recently marked its 60th anniversary. Since Walt Disney opened the main gate in 1955, families have made the pilgrimage, starting with the yesteryear pleasures of Main Street, U.S.A.; Star Wars now brings epic encounters to Tomorrowland. A mountain range of thrill rides includes Space Mountain, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain.

Guests enter sister park Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, which evokes the era when Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles; its Carthay Circle Theatre houses an elegant restaurant. The thrills never end at Soarin’ Around the World, a simulation of global gliding, and the California Screamin’ coaster. Cars Land, inspired by Disney-Pixar’s film Cars, is the newest land, adding Radiator Springs Racers. The spectacular World of Color wows nightly with choreographed fountains, lights, lasers, music, film and animation.

There’s no admission at adjacent Downtown Disney, but it takes restraint to avoid splurging in the lively promenade’s shops, entertainment venues and dining destinations such as Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar. Eateries range from fast to fancy, but none outclasses Napa Rose in the dazzling Grand Californian Hotel.

Shop, eat and play some more at Anaheim GardenWalk, a collection of shopping and dining options. Consider bowling at Bowlmor or dancing at Heat Ultra Lounge; acclaimed music venue House of Blues opens there soon. Nearby is The Ranch, among the county’s best restaurants, and its adjacent super-fun saloon, which is modeled on the late Crazy Horse.

Honda Center is home for the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey team and L.A. Kiss football team and host to touring acts such as— theoretically!—Janet Jackson. American Sports Centers Anaheim, the world’s largest indoor court facility, features 34 volleyball courts that convert to 25 basketball courts.

Nearby is the region’s new transportation hub, the architecturally stunning Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC); its Oyster Bar SKC is new.

At Angel Stadium, “the Big A,” major-league baseball rules when the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play; arena rock acts occasionally invade when the team is away. Anaheim Convention Center’s Grand Plaza is always abuzz.

The Anaheim Packing District includes hip shops and restaurants on Center Street Promenade. The historic Anaheim Packing House offers foodie vendors of all kinds, and it’s a smash. Our favorites include Adya for Cal-Indian, Georgia’s for Southern and Hammer Bar & Tool Shed for cocktails. MAKE,

opening in a 1919 marmalade factory opposite, adds Unsung Brewing Co. and other beverage vendors. Muzeo is a small museum nearby. Anaheim Ice, training facility for the Anaheim Ducks, is open for public skating.

Buena Park

Roller coaster, Old West and boysenberry jam enthusiasts flock to Knott’s Berry Farm, a theme park with roots back to 1934, when farmers Walter and Cordelia Knott opened a roadside stand selling berries and a diner dishing fried chicken. Diners still feast on drumsticks and berry pie at Knott’s Chicken Dinner restaurant, and shoppers wander through the California Marketplace; both enjoy the Independence Hall replica (1966).

Inside the park is a daunting collection of roller coasters separates the bold from the bashful. Xcelerator rockets to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds. Silver Bullet turns riders upside down six times. GhostRider, currently being renovated, is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters. Less hair-raising are the kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. Ghost Town is marking its 75th anniversary.

Explore bygone eras without leaving Beach Boulevard. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament revisits an 11th-century castle.

Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry starring Pure Spanish stallions while serfs and wenches serve a four-course

OLD TOWNE, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; DISNEY, IDRIS ERBA; ARTIC, DHRUMIL DESAI

Anaheim

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New ARTIC in Anaheim.

(Opposite from left) Antique shop in Old Towne Orange; café at Disney California Adventure’s Cars Land.

feast. A banquet at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure fortifies guests for skirmishes aboard a replicated 18th-century Spanish galleon in an indoor lagoon. Teatro Martini dinner cabaret recently opened at the same location.

Orange

Old Towne Orange is often used for movies and commercials, thanks to its diligently preserved pre-1940 homes and buildings.

Anchored by a picturesque traffic circle—oval, actually—at Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street, the district is on the National Register of Historic Places. It includes antique shops and restaurants such as Haven Gastropub and Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen. The Orange Chamber of Commerce (439 E. Chapman Ave.) offers a map of historic sights.

Chapman University is one of the state’s oldest private universities. New are Musco Center for the Arts and, nearby, the Hilbert Museum of California Art. To the east is Irvine Park; its petite Orange County Zoo and narrow-gauge train are ideal for wee ones.

Big kids go for The Outlets at Orange, where draws include high-end discount retailers Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Families fall like pins for hip bowling alley Lucky Strike Lanes and flock to Vans Skatepark.

Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove— formerly known as Crystal Cathedral—is a must-tour for architecture buffs.

Fullerton

Most visitors to Fullerton, home of sprawling Cal State Fullerton, gravitate to the historic core along Harbor Boulevard, with its endless supply of boutiques and watering holes. Near Commonwealth Avenue, a short

stroll from the historic train station, are night spots and restaurants such as Matador Cantina and Twisted Vine.

Significant sights nearby include the Fullerton Museum Center, offering dynamic exhibits including a gallery devoted to Leo Fender, native son and pioneer of the electric guitar. The museum offers maps pinpointing fine examples of architecture styles within walking distance. A short drive away, the stately Muckenthaler Cultural Center hosts varied design and art events and exhibits.

The Fullerton Arboretum at CSUF is a garden of delights, with streams, trails and a restored Victorian cottage. East in Yorba

G R E AT F I N D

Linda is the birthplace of Richard Nixon.

The tiny home and impressive rose garden are on the grounds of the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum, marking its 25th anniversary with a $15 million renovation.

Nearly 70 new exhibits include a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office and one that focuses on his historic trip to China.

Birch Street Promenade in neighboring Brea offers retailers, dining destinations such as Brunos Italian Kitchen and stand-up comedy. Lillie’s Q for acclaimed barbecue fare is nearby. Brea Mall is huge.

For bold items, see listings in the where guide.

For neighborhood maps, see page 61.

/ cooking stock

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The name may sound playful, and browsing the aisles can be fun for foodies, but Chefs’ Toys is a one-stop shop that satisfies even the most serious cook, whether amateur or professional. Not in the market for a pot stirrer the size of an oar? There’s plenty of gear suitable and sized for the home kitchen, such as fine knives in sizes from paring to cleaver, gadgets for any conceivable cooking task, and a wealth of books (Molecular Gastronomy: Scientific Cuisine Demystified) and cookbooks (Bubby’s Homemade Pies). Bon appetit!

1230 N. Kraemer Blvd., Anaheim, 714.683.2650, chefstoys.com

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Fresh Italian Cuisine ● Happy Hour ● Banquets ● Full-Service Catering ● Kid Friendly

South Coast Plaza Village

(714) 751-7153

3800 South Plaza Drive Santa Ana, CA 92704

www.antonello.com

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South Coast Plaza

(714) 754-0300

3333 Bristol St #1201 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.quattrocaffe.com

South Coast Plaza

(714) 557-5232

3333 Bear St. #2887 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.antonello.com

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where

the guide WINTER 2017

DINING

Street Smart Authentic modern! Find contemporary interpretations of Indian street foods, tandoori and curries at Adya—a favorite at the Anaheim Packing House—new at University Center in Irvine. Chef-owner Shachi Mehra’s concept combines the bounty of Southern California with the bold flavors and spices of India and presents sit-down quality in a fast-casual setting. Menu highlights include samosas, chicken tikka, tandoori shrimp, kebabs and pavs— Mumbai-style sloppy joes. p. 43

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THE GUIDE | DINING

american A RESTAURANT Stylish spot—”classically hip since 1926”—with red-leather booths. Kentucky-fried quail; Imperial Wagyu coulotte steak. Café/market adjacent.

L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 3334 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 $$$ Map N13 ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Distinctive fare, cocktails and decor, plus garden terrace with fire “tornadoes.” L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4 ARC Chef Noah Blöm’s “flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine (e.g., pig with black beans, maple and herbs) amid rusticapothecary decor. Butcher’s Love for four is arguably O.C.’s best steak; superb cocktails use house-made everything. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12 BABETTE’S Stylish outpost of East Hampton eatery with lovely courtyard. Organic farm-to-table fare, veganvegetarian options, juice bar, cold-pressed-juice cocktails.

B, L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7962 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.9915 $$$ Map M17

Up on the Rooftop

You can watch Igor Krichmar at the cherry- and citrus-woodfired grill preparing dishes as diverse as Spanish-chorizo tacos with scrambled egg at breakfast or ramen or a 60-daydry-aged tomahawk steak for two at dinner. But, no offense to Krichmar, there are way better views—notably of the ocean and the pool—to enjoy at Tanner’s, the hip and beachy fine-dining room at new Paséa Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach. Those same views are better still from its Treehouse Lounge, up a flight of stairs on the roof, where chic decor includes an elaborate tree sculpture/chandelier over the circular bar, fiberglass tables suggesting tree trunks and sleek fire pits. Consider mixologist Cassie Hesse’s superb Fierro cocktail: 100-proof tequila, blood orange, lime, lemongrass, ginger, egg whites and sumac. p. 35

BACK BAY BISTRO Snazzy spot overlooking Back Bay at the Dunes with retractable roof. Cancun-style shrimp cocktail, Kobe beef sliders, New York steak au poivre. L, D (W-Sa); Br (Sa-Su). Newport Dunes, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.1144 $$ Map M14 BAD TO THE BONE “Real-pit BBQ” (e.g., brisket, tri-tip, Carolina pulled pork) slow-cooked over hickory, served up amid rustic cowboy ambiance. Also: blackened catfish, mesquite-fired steaks. L, D (daily). 31738 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.0227 $$ Map I17 BAYSIDE New American fare at stylish spot ideal for exec lunches, romantic dinners, lazy brunches. Live jazz. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.1222 $$$ Map M1 THE BEACHCOMBER Historic cottage on the sand at Crystal Cove State Park. Prime flat iron steak with wildmushroom-and-truffle mac; Gimme S’mores! Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Los Trancos lot shuttle. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Original spot of Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana. (The other is Vaca in Costa Mesa.) Creative “cuisine of the Americas” and great cocktails. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234 $$$ Map H15 THE CELLAR Cheese shop—a fantastic selection—plus wine bar and excellent restaurant with live music and dog-friendly patio. D (T-Su). 158 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663 $$ Map south of F6 CHAPTER ONE: THE MODERN LOCAL Librarythemed spot is always a page-turner, and “culinary cocktails” add intriguing plot twists. The latest: Chef Jason “Chicken Wang” Montelibano is back! L, D (daily). 227 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.352.2225 $$ Map H13 CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery offers rotisserie chicken, baby-back ribs, pot pie, six-layer Motherlode Cake and its own craft beer. Happy hour daily. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Seven locations include South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.8479; 190 S. State College Blvd., Brea, 714.529.9061; 2250 E. 17th St., Santa Ana, 714.836.6658 $$ Map J13, A3, G14 CITIZEN KITCHEN Sports bar meets urban lounge meets grilled Spanish octopus, Prime N.Y. strip bibimbap and way-over-the-top Beast Burger with duck, foie gras, pork belly, etc., etc. L, D (daily). Hotel Fullerton, 1500 S. Raymond Ave., Fullerton, 714.635.9000 $$$ Map A3

guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 61-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

index American................................. 32 Brewpubs/Gastropubs.......34 California.................................34 Chinese.................................... 35 Continental.............................36 Eclectic.....................................36 Food Halls................................43 French.......................................36 International...........................36 Italian........................................ 37

Japanese..................................38 Mediterranean.......................39 Mexican/Latin.......................39 Quick Bites..............................44 Seafood.....................................41 Steak..........................................42 Thai............................................43 Vegan........................................43 Vietnamese.............................43

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE Creative twists on American classics extend to excellent happy hour and brunch fare (e.g., crab-cake Benedict, bananas Foster French toast).

B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 772 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.341.0376 $$ Map D5 DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN & BAR Overlooks the sand.

Whole Santa Barbara uni with hamachi and sea-urchin vinaigrette; foie-gras-stuffed Mary’s Chicken and morels. Cozy-edgy Stateroom Bar. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.715.7700 $$ Map I15 EAT CHOW “Chowified” fare includes Southern, French, Mexican and Cuban favorites. B, L, D (daily). 1802 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.2469; 211 62nd St., Newport Beach, 949.423.7080 $$ Map K12, N12 FARMHOUSE New. Rich Mead (Sage, Sage on the Coast) is back, this time with a field-to-fork-inspired café at Roger’s Gardens—and it’s a big hit, especially with the lunching ladies. L, D (daily). 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar, 949.640.1415 $$$ Map L16 HOLSTEINS SHAKES AND BUNS High-end burgers —Rising Sun, El Caliente, off-menu Billionaire with foie gras—and Bamboozled alcoholic milkshakes such as A-Chocolypse Now. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.352.2525 $$ Map J13 HOPDODDY One of “the best burgers in America,” says Food & Wine; we like the K-Town Belly. L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2337; 3030 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.505.2337 $$ Map L15 JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR Chic New American bistro and wine shop showcases local fare and innovative cocktails. Chef Daniel Hyatt adds an elaborate weekday social-hour menu (3-6 pm). L (M-Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map J13 LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE Chic, sleek affair inside stunning concert hall presents cutting-edge cuisine and special Broadway-themed menus. Ideal for pre- or postperformance. New chef. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13 LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ Burgers, bánh-mì buns and bouillabaisse in a lighthouse-shaped harbor-view restaurant in Marina Park. Start or end any meal with the beignets. B, L, D (daily). 1600 W. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.933.1001 $$ Map N14 LILLIE’S Q Outpost of Charlie McKenna’s Chicago spot brings his national-competition-winning ribs, other Southern fare and moonshine cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 240 S. Brea Blvd., Brea, 714.482.2001 $$$ Map A3

Ousted just short of the season 11 finale of Bravo TV’s Top Chef, Shirley Chung, chef at Twenty Eight in Irvine, is back for season 14—airing now! p. 35

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Dining RECESS ROOM New. Boyhood chums launch hip spot with hip menu: beef-tendon chicharrones; blue-crab beignets; bone-marrow mac-’n’-cheese; double-decker tacos; Japanese-style skirt steak; cereal-milk crème brûlée.

Craft beer/whiskey love. L (Tu-Su). 18380 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 714.377.0398 $$ Map G13 RESTAURANT MARIN Owners of adjacent Arc offer breakfast all day, and equally sophisticated lunch and dinner, and stunning cakes, at their chic, petite venue. B, L, D (daily). 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.402.3974 $$$ Map J12

Lamb shank tagine at Sapphire Laguna

Old crow smokehouse Chicago-style barbecue, moonshine cocktails and live country music on weekends at new Pacific City. It feels cavernous but isn’t. Beach and pier views. L, D (daily). 21022 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.536.0381 $$ Map N9 OLD VINE CAFÉ Regional and seasonal; a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple French toast, beef-tongue panini or any of several ever-impressive fourcourse tasting menus. B, L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 Park Ave Creative renditions of classic American fare use house-made/home-grown specialties. Most produce grown on premises; visit the garden! Architecture is Googie, decor midcentury retro. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 PAUL MARTIN’S AMERICAN GRILL Restaurateur Paul Fleming (P.F. Chang’s, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse) serves mesquite-grilled items amid dark woods and balsa-wood chandeliers. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.453.1144 $$ Map D5 PLAYGROUND Owner/chef Jason Quinn, whose Lime Truck won Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race, offers New American small plates: cauliflower nachos; Uncle Lou’s fried chicken; wagyu tri-tip. D (daily). 220 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 THE QUIET WOMAN Cozy, very pricey local fixture serves sophisticated comfort food such as center-loin swordfish and baseball-cut steaks. The busy bar is open from lunch to close. 3224 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.640.7440 $$$$ Map M16 RAINFOREST CAFE Creative decor, animatronics and special effects bring the rain forest indoors; dine among lightning storms and wild animals. Expansive menu; kids’ menu. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10 Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo YaYa, bananas Foster. Beignets at Jazz Kitchen Express; romantic dining upstairs; casual meals downstairs. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.776.5200 $$ Map I10 Ramos House Café One of the county’s best restaurants serves O.C.’s best breakfast on the covered patio of an 1881 house next to the train tracks in the historic Los Rios district. B, L (Tu-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17 THE RANCH Sophisticated restaurant and super-fun saloon. Chef Michael Rossi offers escargot with hazelnut spaetzle, fried Petaluma quail, glorious bone-in cowboy rib-eye; try brother David Rossi’s pecan pie. Most produce picked daily on the Ranch’s own farm. D (nightly). 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 $$$ Map I11

REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK New in Laguna Beach.

“Modern comfort” snacks, soups, sandwiches, burgers and steaks. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 5775 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim Hills, 714.283.1062; Boat Canyon, 610 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.226.8393 $$ Map B5 and H15 ROYAL HAWAIIAN New. First opened in 1947; third incarnation respects the original’s Polynesian spirit, brings back its Lapu Lapu cocktail and adds lots of fun Tiki-chic touches. Happy hour 2:30-5:30 pm. D (daily). 331 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1470 $$ Map H15 Ruby’s Diner Vintage-inspired family-magnets serve burgers, fries and shakes. Three of 17 locations are at the end of piers. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Pier, 949.675.RUBY; Huntington Beach Pier, 714.969.RUBY; $ Map N15, N9 and west of N7 SaDDLE RANCH CHOP HOUSE Rock-western experience with mechanical bull; look for the stagecoach on the roof! Extensive American menu, south-of-the-border accents. B, L, D (daily). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.287.4652; Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 657.221.3136 $$ Map K12 and J11 SAINT MARC PUB-CAFE, BAKERY & CHEESE AFFINAGE New. Indoor-outdoor bar. Bacon bar features bacon flights. Cheese and barrel wines sold by the ounce.

B, L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington beach, 949.629.2591 $$ Map N9 Sandy’s HB SoCal vibe, vibrant setting steps from the sand at Huntington Beach Pier. Regionally inspired cuisine and huge patio. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 315 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.7273 $$ Map N9 SEASONS 52 Lower calorie. Lots of flavor. Fab piano bar, stylish decor, eclectic seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts, superior wine list. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5252 $$ Map J13 SKYLOFT Rooftop venue atop historic building serves up popcorn crawfish, spicy chopped salad, brisket sandwich and All-In barbecue platter amid highway/ocean views.

Local brews, live music. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 422 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1550 $$ Map I16 SOCIAL Hip spot offers intriguing cuisine and superb cocktails near the Triangle. Wood-fired oysters; fried cauliflower; Akaushi-beef Drive Thru Burger; wagyu tritip. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.2425 $$ Map K12 Stonehill Tavern Michael Mina’s urbane ode to New American dining in shimmering room at Monarch Beach Resort. D (Tu-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3318 $$$ Map J17

320 MAIN Chef Jaime Carrano offers elevated fare such as citrus-cured salmon bite, roasted bone marrow with braised oxtail marmalade; owners Jason and Rebecca Schiffer fashion cutting-edge cocktails. D (nightly). 320 Main St., Seal Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map C1 WATERTABLE Restaurant and “gastro bar” in “living rooms” and on ocean-view patio. Shareable Bar Jars; honey-lavender Berkshire pork entrée. B, L, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.1234 $$ Map N9 WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN & CAFE California’s original soda fountain (1899). Newly hip, it retains its retro vibe; some shakes come with booze. B, L, D (daily). 116 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.363.3773 $$ Map J11 ZIMZALA Surfer-chic spot at hip Shorebreak Hotel offers “American/beach comfort” cuisine—and Cal-Med. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.960.5050 $$ Map N9

Brewpubs and Gastropubs HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Superlative burgers, Jidori chicken-liver toast, whole roasted suckling pig, B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680 $$ Map C4 JT Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery Beers brewed on-site and brewpub cuisine: wood-fired pizzas, Prime steaks, burgers, jambalaya and sashimi! L, D (daily). 2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.634.9200; 2415 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.0333 $$ Map I11, D4 MRK PUBLIC Three chefs—two from Laguna’s late Tabu Grill—offer elevated pub fare, notably Tuscan Toast, Vietnamese Sticky Wings and fried chicken sandwich, and craft beers (all $5). L, D (Tu-Su). 1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.441.7621 $$ Map south of F6 SIDE DOOR Superb spot shares replica of England’s oldest inn with landmark Five Crowns. Artisanal cheese, charcuterie, seasonal plates and world-class brews—plus elevated British pub fare. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322 $$ Map M16 SLATER’S 50/50 Superior brew list plus DYO Burgers.

Or try house favorites Peanut Butter & Jellousy or Fritos Crunch versions. L, D (daily). 8082 Adams Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.594.5730; 6362 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim Hills, 714.685.1103 $$ Map L9, B5

California Cuisine HARVEST New. Homage to homesteaders at luxury resort showcases California organic farming (there’s a half-acre garden), ranching, brewing, distilling and oenology; patio seating with golf and canyon views. B, L, D (daily). The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 $$ Map I16 k’ya bistro bar Chef Craig Connole has created more than 50 small plates for lively spot inside historic La Casa del Camino Hotel; sharing is encouraged.

D (nightly). La Casa del Camino, 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.9718 $$ Map I16

Tempo urban kitchen Jorge Cueva dreams up imaginative dishes such as short-rib tacos with Guinness mole and abuelita chocolate tortilla. New executive chef: Cody Storts (Grits). L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 1060 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.529.2900 $$ Map A3

Napa Rose Wine country at Disney Resort is a celebration of beauty in the bottle and the bounty of nature; chef Andrew Sutton offers sophisticated seasonal fare; staff includes dozens of sommeliers. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.635.2300 $$$ Map I10

THREE SEVENTY COMMON Chef Ryan Adams offers winning fare such as halibut with peas, mint, onion and preserved lemon. Apple fried pies. Family-style Sunday Night Social dinners. D (nightly). 370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map H15

OAK GRILL Cal-contemporary, classic influences; new chef. Fifty wines by the glass. Shares huge patio with Aqua Lounge. Slow Smoked Sundaze barbecue Sundays.

B, L, D (daily). Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 $$$$ Map L15

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Dining PROVENANCE Cathy Pavlos’ wine-country-farmhousethemed spot has raised-bed patio garden; produce is the star. Pan-roasted cauliflower kung pao; Snake River Farms heritage pork tender; S’more in a Jar dessert. Fantastic brunch. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 531 Eastbluff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0477 $$ Map L14 SEALEGS WINE BAR Seasonal California share plates—e.g., Pig and Fig Flatbread, Stinky Fries, bananas Foster French toast—plus limited-production wines and craft beers amid Hamptons-style nautical decor. D (nightly), Br (Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.536.5700 $$ Map M9 SEAsalt woodfire grill The SeaLegs Wine Bar team channels California’s Santa Maria Valley: tri-tip steaks over red-oak coals; house-made flavored sea salts, “craft rim” cocktails. D (Tu-Su). 21214 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.804.5545 $$$ Map D2

The perfect Newport Beach destination for delicious food and spectacular bay, mountain and city views.

Specializing in fresh seafood and flavorful, seasonal dishes.

Shades Casual elegance, deft Cal-Continental menu and ocean views make this a popular boutique-steak and seafood destination. Lavish brunch on poolside patio. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Waterfront Hilton, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.8444 $$ Map N9 Splashes Restaurant and Bar Indoors by the fireplace or on the patio steps from the sand, the water’sedge Pacific view provides a dramatic backdrop for meals meant to be gorgeous memories. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Surf & Sand Hotel, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.4477, ext. 550 $$$ Map H15

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Studio Airy bluff-top Arts and Crafts-style bungalow with stunning azure and endless Pacific view oozes an offhand luxury befitting its premium resort setting. Chef Craig Strong reaches far beyond the predictably posh.

D (Tu-Su). Montage Resort & Spa, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 866.271.6953 $$$$ Map I16 TANGATA Lunch spot off Bowers Museum’s Missionstyle courtyard offers Pacific Rim-inflected cuisine. Spam taco, Laughing Bird shrimp salad, Korean marinated skirt steak, banana spring roll. L (Tu-Su). 2002 N Main St., Santa Ana, 714.550.0906 $$ Map G13 TANNER’S New. Beachy vibe, pool and ocean views, fare cooked on an open fire—plus stunning rooftop Treehouse Lounge with its own superb cocktail list. Poke omelet; Grape & Burrata; roast salmon with coconut forbidden rice pudding. B, L, D (daily). Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130 $$ Map N9 URTH CAFFÉ Organic heirloom coffee destination serves wide array of items plus pastries, cakes, juices and boba drinks in landmark restored nearly century-old cottage. B, L, D (daily). 308 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 213.797.4527 $ Map H15 THE WINERY Chef/partner Yvon Goetz offers seafood, wild game, USDA Prime steaks plus cigar patios and extensive wine cellars. Tustin: L (M-F), D (nightly); Newport: D (nightly), Br (Su). District at Tustin Legacy, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600; 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.999.6622 $$$ Map D4, N13

Chinese 1600 West Balboa Boulevard, Newport Beach At the new Marina Park Phone ahead (949) 933- 1001 or Make a reservation online at www.LighthouseNB.com Catering and to go orders for boaters, too.

DIN TAI FUNG Taiwan icon known for xiao long bao —Shanghai-style soup dumplings—now has venue at South Coast Plaza. New York Times included the original in its world’s top 10; the L.A. Times’ Jonathan Gold pegged the Glendale location in his top 101. L, D (daily). 3333 Bristol St. Costa Mesa, 714.549.3388 $$ Map J13 TWENTY EIGHT Owner-chef Shirley Chung—Top Chef finalist and return competitor this season—offers modern Chinese in super-stylish digs. Singapore-style chili lobster; slow-braised oxtail. L, D (daily). 19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.852.2828 $$ Map K14

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DINING

Continental FIVE CROWNS Lawry’s spot in English inn replica recently marked its 50th anniversary with a dramatically expanded menu—nearly triple the items—and new bar.

Prime rib and other favorites stay. Superb SideDoor Gastropub is adjacent. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331 $$$ Map M16 THE HOBBIT Transporting dinners at homey hacienda revered for special occasions. Multicourse prix-fixe affair: cocktails upstairs, elaborate appetizers in the wine cellar, new Continental classics in elegant dining rooms. Menu changes weekly. Reservations essential. D (W-Su). 2932 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.1972 $$$$ Map J11 ORANGE HILL Hilltop hideaway with endless city-light views; traditional and updated fare includes seafood, prime rib, lobster. The O Bar just got a redesign and expanded its bar program. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.2910 $$ Map C5 21 OCEANFRONT Romantic restaurant with sunset views, cozy bars, servers in black tie. Abalone, crab legs, steaks and osso buco. Live entertainment in the lounge.

D (nightly). 2100 W. Oceanfront (Newport Pier), Newport Beach, 949.673.2100 $$$ Map N13

Eclectic EATS KITCHEN & BAR Burgers, regional specialties, tapas-style small bites and winning happy hour menu.

B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780 $$ Map D4 MIX Hilton Anaheim executive chef Frederic Castan oversees the globally influenced menu at the strikingly redone atrium lobby restaurant and lounge and impressive chef’s table in the kitchen. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10

sundays, 9am-3pm –fe at ur ing –

W ho•Song’s

Wafflmadete intea wafbafleriron!

an omelette

• taco stand • Burrito bar (elote) • Larry’s Famous street corn s! plus...not your average dessert

Located in the Stadium Promenade Shopping Center.

voted best seafood orange county

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TRUE FOOD KITCHEN Healthful globally inspired fare in cheery room and on inviting patio with linear fire pit.

More healthful cocktails; biodynamic wines. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 451 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.2400 $$$ Map L15

ow n !

Bloody Mary bar

1535 W. Katella Ave., Orange CA • (714) 639-9550

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SAPPHIRE LAGUNA Chef Azmin Ghahreman offers inspired, and globally inspired, dishes at stylish spot with excellent bar program, popular patio and gourmet pantry for takeout. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15

build your

French MARCHÉ MODERNE Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia elevate the bistro experience to delicious heights. Moves to Crystal Cove Shopping Center in spring. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map J13 MOULIN New in Laguna Beach. Bistro-epicerie-café offers baguette sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, wine and beer amid French logo decor. B, L (daily until 9 pm); prix-fixe D (Tu). 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920; 248 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6990 $$ Map K13 and H15 PASCAL The latest list-topping home for venerated chef Pascal Olhats offers Pascal Experience menu—plus bakery and epicerie items, salads, sandwiches, panini, desserts, and picnics to go. B, L, D (daily). 103 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.488.0031 $$ Map I17

INTERNATIONAL IRENIA New. Former Taco Maria sous chef offers classic Filipino dishes (e.g., adobo pork belly) elevated with unexpected ingredients in the former North Left

newport beach harbor

Classic and Contemporary Sustainable Seafood Lunch · Dinner · Brunch · Happy Hour · Kids Livewell Menu Full Bar · Patio · Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking NEWPORT BEACH · REDONDO BEACH · DISTRICT @ TUSTIN · PHOENIX CATALINA ISLAND · CORONADO · TEMECULA · CARLSBAD COMING SOON

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DINING space. Dessert and cocktails excel as well. L (W-Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 400 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 657.245.3466 $$ Map H13 MARRAKESH Moroccan multicourse prix-fixe feasts including b’stilla (phyllo-chicken pie), sans silverware.

Great value. Belly dancing (W-Su). D (nightly). 1976 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.645.8384 $$ Map L13 MOZAMBIQUE African fortress gone hip and stylish offers Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine such as piri piri prawns. Veranda rooftop dining. Complimentary safe ride within 3 miles—in really nice vehicles. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777 $$ Map I16 ROYAL KHYBER Spot often cited as O.C.’s best Indian marks 30 years. Warm eggplant salad; lobster masala; signature Khyber’s Nectar, lamb shanks simmered 14 hours. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza Village, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13

Italian ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE Italian steakhouse in 1909 manor; refined cuisine elaborately presented amid fresco recreations. Consider white-chocolate salmon, peppered hanger steak and game dishes. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.1381 $$$ Map I10 ANDREA Elegant but unstuffy. Spectacular views of elysian vistas and the ocean. Superb northern Italian cuisine. Julia’s handmade gnocchi; wagyu chateaubriand for two. Pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L, D (daily). Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 949.467.6800 $$$$ Map L17 ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA Beautiful new location in Irvine expands menu beyond Neapolitan pies and adds brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Los Olivos Marketplace, 8573 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.536.5200; Monarch Bay Plaza, 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.429.1102 $$ Map D5, J16 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE Totally redone, top-notch, romantic northern Italian restaurant; don’t miss the osso buco with risotto milanese, or the ricotta gnocchi. Enoteca Lounge and bar menu. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.751.7153 $$$ Map J13 BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN Contemporary spot offers memorable dishes such as hamachi with sweet-and-sour shallots, wild-boar-sausage bucatini, caramel-chocolate budino, and house-made limoncello liqueur. D (nightly).

210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000 $$$ Map A3 CUCINA ENOTECA Cal-Ital plus wine shop amid fun decor. Vasi (filled jars), lobster gnocchi neri, guanciale bucatini, house-infused liquors. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000; Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222 $$ Map L15, D5 ECCO Hip spot at the Camp serves up sophisticated wood-fired pizzas, ricotta gnocchi with grilled prawns, sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic and chilies. New at Anaheim Packing House. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.444.ECCO; 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, eccopizza.com $$ Map J13, H10 FRANCOLI GOURMET Convivial, handsome northern Italian destination takes a quantum leap in quality, both in style (e.g., ornate orange-glass chandelier) and cuisine since its move to Old Towne Orange. B, L, D (daily).

100 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.288.1077 $$ Map C4 IL BARONE RISTORANTE Acclaimed chef Franco Barone and wife Donatella offer sophisticated fare at stylish spot hidden near John Wayne Airport. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 4251 Martingale Way, Newport Beach, 949.955.2755 $$ Map K14

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DINING IL DOLCE PIZZERIA Array of superlative artisanal Neapolitan pizzas (e.g., fingerling potato, chili oil, mozzarella, Gruyère, pancetta, rosemary, chives) and pastas (spaghetti carbonara) in modest storefront. L, D (daily). 1902 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.200.9107 $$ Map K12 IL FORNAIO Upscale casual trattoria and bakery features house-made and imported pastas, wood-fired pizzas and roasted meats in a romantic atmosphere.

Bocce ball courts, too! L (M-Sa); D (nightly). 18051 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.261.1444 $$$ Map J14 IL GARAGE Beguiling spot from David Slay, in a garage hidden behind his acclaimed ParkAve, amid a 1924 tractor and red-checkered tablecloths; it overlooks the garden that inspires and supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 NORTH ITALIA High-decibel space with lots of glass, soaring ceiling, lively marble-topped bar and citrus-studded patio. Truffle garlic bread; squid-ink mafaldine; salted caramel budino. L (M-F), D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 2957 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.629.7060 $$ Map K14 PIROZZI Alessándro Pirozzi’s super-convivial spot offers olive fritte; speck-wrapped, wild-boar-stuffed quail; limoncello-infused taglierini; and heart-shaped Nutella pizza for two. Excellent pizzas. D (daily). 2929 E. Coast Hwy, Corona del Mar, 949.675.2932 $$$ Map M16

only through winter season

PIZZERIA MOZZA Culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich replicate their acclaimed L.A. and Singapore spots. Pizzas use distinctive dough.

Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel coppetta with marshmallow sauce. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.945.1126 $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Chef Justin Miller’s offers refined authentic Neapolitan fare beneath soaring arched ceilings and frescoes. New brunch (e.g. shrimp, polenta and fried green tomatoes). L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13 QUATTRO CAFFÉ Antonio Cagnolo of much-lauded Antonello Ristorante rejuvenates shoppers with stylish fare. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.754.0300 $$ Map J13 SAPORI RISTORANTE Charming and highly regarded spot near Balboa Island. Penne otero, polenta e porcini, scalloppine Gorgonzola. Adjacent pizzeria. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1080 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.4220 $$$ Map N14 VITALY Bolognese owners offer croissants, piadine and C tigelle sandwiches, espresso, beer, wine, gelato and gelato flights in tiny cones. B, L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 M Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.662.5500 $$ Map J13

Japanese

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BENIHANA The original exhibition kitchen—at your MY table! Fun dining experience, fun date. L (M-F), D (nightly). 4250 Birch St., Newport Beach, 949.955.0822; 2100 CY E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.774.4940 $$ Map K13, I10 CMY

BLUEFIN Master sushi chef Takashi Abe offers exquisite sushi and hot entrées. L, D (daily). Crystal K Cove Promenade, 7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.7373 $$$ Map M17

A legend

HAMAMORI Sparkling environment with undulating curves overlooks Bear Street. Rice-cracker-coated jumbo asparagus with yuzu sea salt; tamari-marinated black cod. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.850.0880 $$$ Map J13 NANA SAN Chef Goro Sakurai attracts a considerable and predominantly Asian clientele; there’s generally a wait by 5:15 pm, but you’ll get a call or text when your seats are ready. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 3601 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, 949.474.7373 $$ Map K13

Oceanfront Dining at the Pier 714.374.6446

317 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach

DUKESHUNTINGTON.COM

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DINING OOTORO SUSHI New. Every bite surprises at this truly impressive omakase-centric spot, presenting rare fish, a toro trio, A5+ Kobe beef and other delicacies, plus elaborate cooked dishes and top sakes. Fine-dining anchor for the Trade food hall. L, D (Tu-Sa). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.222.0688 $$$ Map K13 SUSHI ROKU Gorgeous spot at Fashion Island from CalJapanese sushi pioneer. Fluke kumquat sashimi; premium tofu three ways; blue-crab tartare; Prime rib-eye steak Japonais; and spectacular s’mores dessert. Each chef gives sushi his open spin. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.3622 $$ Map L15

Mediterranean AVEO TABLE + BAR New. Coastal bounty amid cool chandeliers, art and expansive ocean views. Eggs al forno breakfast; porchetta sandwich; Spanish paella for two. “Farm-to-Bar” cocktails beneath a vaulted ceiling.

B, L, D (daily). 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3915 $$$ Map J17 CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR The Uva outdoor pavilion offers 40 California wines by the glass and tapas; upstairs is Catal for fine dining. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1580 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.774.4442 $$$ Map I10 FIG & OLIVE Ode to olive oil on the Fashion Island preimeter offers sophisticated fare from crostini and crudo starters to crème-brûlée cheesecake in a stunning olive tree-studded setting. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.877.3005 $$$ Map L15 LUCCA CAFE & MARKET Euro-chic bistro, deli and wine bar by chef Cathy Pavlos features artisanal and organic local ingredients; sibling to Provenance in Newport Beach. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6507 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.725.1773 $$ Map D5 MESA Young chef Niki Starr Weyler oversees stylish spot. Hip scene, retractable glass roof, unisex restrooms.

Ahi-tuna “tacos,” cast-iron-skillet mussels, wine-braised short ribs; superb cocktails. D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 $$ Map J13 MEZZET Small plates and big flavors from Spain, Morocco, Lebanon, Greece and the South of France in an airy bar and open dining room (the former Nello Cucina space). L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, Crate & Barrel Wing, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.3365 $$ Map J13 ZOV’S Venerated chef Zov Karamardian’s bistro marks 30 years; Louie Jocson is the executive chef. Acclaimed Med cuisine; bakery-café in Tustin. L, D (M-Sa). Enderle Center, 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin, 714.838.8855; 1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.280.9687; 3915 Portola Parkway, Irvine, 714.734.9687; 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast, 949.760.9687 $$$ Map C5, I11, C4, L17

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ANEPALCO Chef Daniel Godinez applies French technique to traditional Mexican ingredients, with sophisticated, artfully presented results. Tilapia with serrano chili-infused beurre blanc; cuitlacoche-topped burger. Innovative cocktails. L, D (daily). 3737 Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.456.9642 $$ Map B4 CHA CHA’S TACOS & TEQUILA Contemporary spot on pedestrian-friendly promenade. Prickly pear margarita; rotisserie meats and wood-fired dishes. L (W-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 110 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1040 $$ Map A3 EL ADOBE State historical landmark serving traditional Mexican fare is housed in a 1797 adobe and 1812 jail. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1163 $$ Map I17

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DINING EL TORITO GRILL Handmade tortillas, fresh salsas and mes­quite-grilled specialties. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 951 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2875; 1910 Main St., Irvine, 949.975.1220; 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.367.1567; 555 Pointe Drive, Brea, 714.990.2411 $$ Map L15, J14, G17, A3 EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE New. Acclaimed Anepalco chef Danny Godinez puts his spin on sharedplate specialties from each of Mexico’s states in a hip and comfortable space. Cesar Cerrudo adds top-notch mezcal cocktails. L (Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 301 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 714.338.2446 $$ Map H13 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Old Towne daytrippers and tequila connoisseurs duck into this rustically stylish haven for spirited takes on regional Mexican fare far beyond tacos and burritos. L, D (daily). 141 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3038 $$ Map C4 HABANA Hip setting, hip clientele and nuevo Latino cuisine by candlelight. Signature dishes include paella and ropa vieja (shredded pot roast). Great patio. L, D (daily). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.556.0176 $$ Map J13 LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with superb coastal views. Snapper Veracruzana; Yucatán chicken. The popular patio has its own Seaside Menu.

B, L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15 OLA MEXICAN KITCHEN New. Pacific City spot offers items including surf-and-turf lobster-filet mignon taco, posole and El Rey del Salmón Agave with ocean views from nearly every seat. L, D (daily). 21040 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.969.7300 $$$ Map N9 POUR VIDA Jimmy Martinez (former chef at L.A.’s Boa Steakhouse) offers creative tacos such as pineapple skirt steak, tempura oyster and heirloom cauliflower. L, D (daily). 185 W. Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, 657.208.3889 $$ Map H10 PUEBLO Cozy, upbeat spot offers tapas—e.g., grilled Spanish octopus, pimentón potato and mojo verde—and cheese and charcuterie boards indoors and on a winning patio. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775 $$ Map D5 PUESTO New. Artisanal tacos such as zucchiniand-cactus with crispy cheese, lamb barbacoa and off-the-charts shrimp tamarindo on blue-corn tortilla. L, D (daily). Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, eatpuesto.com $$ Map J12 RAYA Sophisticated fare from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree; roasted halibut with truffled boniato. B, L, D (daily). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16 RED O Sexy design with Moroccan accents, menu by Mexican cuisine guru Rick Bayless. Ceviches, guacamole tasting, lamb chops mole negro. Extensive tequila list. L, D (daily). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0300 $$$ Map L15 SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooking harbor canals offers vibrant Baja-inspired dishes by Deborah Schneider (Amor y Tacos; Salsas and Moles). Chorizo and mushrooms con queso; Hot & Raw tropical ceviche; taco Vampiro; grilled Kobe skirt steak. L, D (daily). 251 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.675.9800 $$ Map M14 SOLITA Sol Cocina spinoff offers tacos (e.g., chorizo, bacon and sweet potatoes; chili tofu; wood-grilled carne asada) and margaritas. Start with queso al forno. L, D (daily). Bella Terra, 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.894.2792 $$ Map C2 TACO ASYLUM Spot serving unusual tacos, excellent brews and small-batch soda. Bánh mì taco, corn off the

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Dining cob, dessert nachos. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.922.6010 $ Map J13 Taco MARíA Carlos Salgado serves up meticulous and always fascinating “Chicano cuisine” at OC Mix. Memorable, truly distinctive tacos at lunch; dinner is weekly changing four-course prix-fixe. L (Tu-Sa), D (W-Sa). South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.538.8444 $$$ Map J12 VACA Amar Santana, Bravo Top Chef runner-up last season and owner/chef at acclaimed Broadway in Laguna Beach, and partner Ahmed Labbate open Spanish spot serving tapas, paellas, house-made charcuterie, 50-day aged steaks and superb cocktails. L, D (daily). 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.463.6060 $$$ Map J13 WHO SONG AND LARRY’S Eclectic Cal-Mex cantina near Honda Center. Street corn; lobster mac-’n’-cheese enchilada; avocado split dessert; shareable cocktails; whole-roast-pig Taco Tuesdays. L, D (daily). 1535 W. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.639.9550 $$ Map I11

Seafood anchor hitch Fine-dining anchor of Union Market—and Mission Viejo’s finest dining offers truly original decor, lobster roll, abalone panna cotta, elaborate seafood towers. Most dishes served family style; plus raw bar. L (F-Su), D (nightly). Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.226.8949 $$ Map G17 BLUEWATER GRILL Fresh seafood selection at handsome spots changes daily. Grilled Australian barramundi, Costa Rican mahimahi, farm-raised Mississippi catfish. L, D (daily); Br (Su). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2409 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.

FISH; 630 Lido Park Drive, Newport Beach, 949.675.FISH $$ Map D4, N13 1 DUKE’S Hawaiian-inspired seafood, Prime steaks and infectious beach-house ambiance. Next to the pier; Barefoot Bar; endless ocean views. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 317 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.6446 $$ Map N9 Harbor Grill Excellent mesquite-grilled seafood, pastas, gumbos, bouillabaisse at Dana Point Harbor; consider the rosebud martini and the sustainably farmed oysters. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 34499 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.240.1416 $$$ Map J16 market broiler Mix ’n’ match fresh fish ‘n’ sauce.

Mesquite-grilled seafood and steaks, sushi, on-site fish market. L, D (daily). The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd., Orange, 714.769.FISH; 20111 Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach, 714.771.6655 $$ Map J11, L1

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Seafood in majestic proportions; seafood tower; signature warm butter cake. Glass-topped grand piano in the O Bar. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 8112 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.376.6990 $$$$ Map M17 McCormick & Schmick’s Citified fish house offers simply prepared fresh seafood. Old-school cocktails, legendary happy hour; microbrews on tap at Irvine’s Pilsner Room. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2000 S. Main St., Irvine, 949.756.0505; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.535.9000 $$$ Map J14, I10 shuck Oyster bar offers meticulously shucked selections. Superb grilled cheese sandwich, seafood stew. Bubblies and brews. L, D (daily). OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.420.0478 $$ Map J12 Taps Fish House and Brewery Excellent seafood and steaks, oyster bar, gold-medal-winning brews. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Birch Street Promenade, 101 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.257.0101; the Market Place, 13390 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.619.0404 $$$ Map A3, C5

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DINING WATER GRILL New. Grande dame of upscale seafood destinations in downtown L.A. opens in a jaw-dropping expansion of the former Scott’s space opposite South Coast Plaza. Oyster bar, wild Tahitian bigeye tuna, wild Barents Sea red king crab, 1-pound Prime rib-eye and indulgent desserts. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 949.208.7060 $$$ Map M13

WATERLINE “Water to table” fresh local seafood experience overlooking the harbor includes crab eggs Benedict at breakfast; halibut BLT at lunch; and scallops “Peas & Carrots” at dinner. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888.894.2788 $$$ Map M13

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Steak AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at this Brazilian steakhouse are cooked over a fire pit and seasoned with rock salt. Gaucho-garbed waiters offer 16 sumptuous cuts, from picanha (a sirloin specialty) to coração (delicate chicken hearts). Elaborate hot and cold bar. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1830 Main St., Irvine, 949.222.9910 $$$ Map J13 BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS Akaushi Kobe-style Prime steaks and burgers (and one Japanese Kobe) plus seafood amid whimsical and sophisticated industrialchic decor and on O.C.’s largest ocean-view patio. L, D (daily). 300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 202, Huntington Beach, 714.960.0096 $$$ Map N9 CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant steakhouse offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Pan-fried calamari with cherry peppers; bone-in kona-crusted dryaged sirloin; ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J13 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue; prime everything, and that includes the seafood. Classy feel extends to bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass. Prime rib on Sundays. Br (Su), D (nightly). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky spot offers largerthan-life portions and white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; off-the-menu crab gnocchi; and— oooh—warm butter cake. Bar offers generous cocktails, fine live music. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405 $$$$ Map J13

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MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Classy bastions of beef: service-plus, colossal portions. Double filet, Cajun rib-eye, retro filets Oscar and Diane. Show-and-tell menu recitation. Bar 1221. Anaheim: D (nightly); Santa Ana: L (M-F), D (nightly). 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.621.0101; South Coast Plaza Village, 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.444.4834 $$$$ Map I10, J13

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Anaheim: D (nightly); Irvine: L (F), D (daily). 2041 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.750.5466; 2961 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.252.8848 $$$$ Map I10, K14 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s upscale spot, several settings in historic cottage. Pacific diver scallops; scarlet beet ravioli; Lord Stanley Cut (bone-in rib-eye) wagyu steak for two; Bloomsdale spinach side; monkey bread dessert. D (Tu-Su). 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881 $$$ Map I16

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DINING

THAI ROYAL THAI CUISINE Casually elegant family-owned spots on the coast for more than 30 years. Honey duck; Lady Thai prawns. L, D (daily). 4001 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.645.8424; 1750 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8424 $$ Map N13, I16 THAI NAKORN Local fixture, long considered one of O.C.’s best Thai spots. Fried fish with mango salad; clam in chili paste and basil. L, D (daily). 11951 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.799.2031; 12532 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, 714.583.8938 $$ Map I8, K10

VEGAN AU LAC Traditional dishes revisited make for amazing plant-based dishes, many centered on “shrimp” (salt-and-pepper shrimp), “chicken” (kung pao chicken) or “beef” (beef watercress). Plus “living” raw menu.

L, D (Tu-Su). 16563 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 714.418.0658 $$ Map C3 GRATITUDE Chic spot presents elaborate dishes with affirming names such as “Welcoming.” Don’t-miss items include the tostada and superb cocktails such as the Smokey Negroni and the actually smoking gin and tonic.

B, L, D (daily). Westcliff Plaza, 1617 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.386.8103 $$$ Map L14 HEALTHY JUNK Good eats. Eat happy. Reimagined plant-based snack junk and comfort foods; excellent burgers, Tex-Mex and pizza plus organic-everything bar.

L, D (daily). 201 W. Center Street Promenade, Unit B, Anaheim, 714.772.5865 $$ Map H10 SEABIRDS KITCHEN Eye-opening organic, plant-based and seasonal dishes such as purple taquitos, artichoke drumsticks, enoki reuben on ciabatta, chaffle (churro waffle). L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.549.2584 $$ Map J13

Vietnamese ANQI Innovative small plates in sexy setting with backlit bar and glass catwalk over running stream. Mango-chili shrimp; galbi hanger steak with crispy kimchee polenta; amazing garlic noodles. Secret-recipe garlic crab on Tuesdays. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13 BREAK OF DAWN Iconic but off-the-beaten-path spot in a strip mall is known for generous portions of chef Dee Nguyen’s superb Vietnamese-inflected American breakfast fare. Cauliflower veloute; duck-fat omelet; beef brisket. B, L (W-Su). 24351 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, 949.587.9418 $$ Map G17

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Baked clams; Phuket-style pho; seafood bird’s nest. Lots of vegetarian options. L, D (daily). 9100 Trask Ave., Garden Grove, 714.899.8273 $$$ Map K8

FOOD HALLS ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE Historic citrus hub— the Sunkist building—hosts two dozen foodie vendors including Urbana for Mexican; Adya for Cal-Indian; Rolling Boil for hot pots; Georgia’s for Southern; Hammer Bar & Tool Shed for cocktails; Black Sheep for distinctive grilled cheese sandwiches; Ecco Pizza; the Iron Press for savory waffles; Popbar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.635.1350 $$ Map H10 4TH STREET MARKET Fifteen foodie tenants in the East End include Electric City Butcher, Touch S’more Co., Mar, Stockyard Sandwich, Dos Chinos, Front

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DINING Porch Pops, KTCHN DTSA, Portola Coffee Lab and Recess Libations for cocktails on tap. New: Jinny’s Pizzeria, Pig Pen Delicacy, Sit Low Pho and Terra. L, D (daily). 201 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.486.0700 $$ Map H13 LOT 579 New. Impressive tenant list at new marketplace includes American Dream for burgers and beers, Burnt Crumbs for artisanal sandwiches, Il Barone Italian Street Food, Bear Flag Fish Co. for poke, Pie-Not for savory Aussie pies and PopBar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, gopacificcity.com $$ Map N9 TRADE FOOD HALL Opening presently. Acclaimed local entrepreneurs launch new concepts at center near airport anchored by Ootoro Sushi (see Japanese). Tenants include Megadon Latin-Asian-Mexican-Hawaiian fusion, Two Birds grilled and fried chicken, Butterleaf vegetarian and Sweet Comforts desserts. B, L, D (daily). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, tradefoodhall.com $ Map J14 UNION MARKET MISSION VIEJO Dining collection on upper level of entertainment center includes Anchor Hitch Seafood & Raw Bar (the city’s finest dining?), Oyu Shabu for shabu-shabu, Hummus Bowl, Dry Society for craft cocktails and Milk Box for craft boba tea. L, D (daily). Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, unionmarketmissionviejo.com $$ Map E6 UNION MARKET TUSTIN Diverse dining experiences include Hatch for creative sliders and Tiki drinks, Cubed for poke, Kettlebar Steam Cooking for pan roasts and other seafood stews, the Kroft for market-inspired sandwiches and poutine, and the Dirty Cookie. L, D (daily). The District, 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, unionmarkettustin.com $$ Map D4

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Quick Bites ASADA New. Popular Laguna taco destination is back, downsized and reborn as a taco bar in the Boat Canyon shopping center. L, D (daily). 610 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna LB_PRNTAD_WHERE_0416_vF.indd 1 Beach, 949.226.7263 $ Map H15 BEACH BARREL American beach grub: over-the-top sandwiches (Playa Cubano, Barrel Burger, the Shredder), jerk-chicken fries, Hawaiian Sticky Buns dessert; weekend delivery until 3 am. L, D (daily). 3305 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, 949.531.6222 $ Map M13, D5

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BRUXIE O.C.’s original waffle-sandwiches chain now focusing on its popular fried-chicken creations. B, L, D (daily). The Strand, 180 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 657.215.3559; 292 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3900; 215 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1188 $ Map N8, C4, A3 BURGER LOUNGE New. Grass-fed burgers with emphasis on healthful ingredients; salted caramel pretzel shake. L, D (daily). 279 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.764.1780; 8553 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.450.0440 $ Map M13, D5 BURGER PARLOR New in Orange. Chef with Michelin star experience focuses on burgers such as the baconforward Smokey and Frito Chili Cheeseburger. L, D (daily). 149 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.602.8220; 204 N. Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, 714.441.2003 $$ Map B4, A3 C4 DELI: THE CURE FOR THE COMMON Localcentric kitchen with wine-and-craft-beer bar and even more distinctive craft sodas; ciabatta-roll sandwiches include the standout porchetta. B, L, D (daily). 200 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.263.1555 $$ Map H1 CROW BURGER KITCHEN Casual but top-notch spot on the peninsula offers Angus and Prime beef burgers in intriguing configurations. Try Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger! L, D (daily). 3107 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.2747 $ Map N12 DORY DELI Deli food with a contemporary spin and a beachside setting. Battered fish and chips use the Dory

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DINING Fleet’s catch of the day. B, L, D (daily). 2108 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach, 949.220.7886 $ Map N13 GD BRO BURGER Yearling spot started as acclaimed food truck, serves memorably creative burgers on housemade bright red brioche buns. B, L (daily). 2321 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana $$ Map G14 KRAVE KOBE BURGER GRILL Consider the Ultimate Kolossal Kobe: two 5-ounce Imperial Wagyu patties with Niman Ranch add-ons. B, L (daily). 21133 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.719.7770 $$ Map J11 LEMONADE Huge array of distinctive salads, sandwiches and stews in fast-casual cafeteria setting. L, D (daily).

2967 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1560; Fashion Island, 987 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.7525; Pacific City, 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.604.1072 $ Map J14, L15, N9 MCDONALD’S By the numbers it’s America’s favorite hamburger restaurant; this one’s near the Disney theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.491.0563 plus 70 other county locations. $ Map I10 PIZZA PRESS Roaring ’20s newspaper theme, decor and pizzas. Patio dining, wine and beer, plus grab-and-go. B, L, D (daily). 1534 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.323.7134; 155 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.888.5941 $ Map C4 PORTILLO’S Chicago hot-dog mecca offers amazing value near Knott’s Berry Farm. The dogs are just one reason it’s got so many fans. L, D (daily). 8390 La Palma Ave., Buena Park, 714.220.6400 $ Map G PROVISIONS MARKET Specialty market and bottle shop offers new take on classic deli foods. Smoked-marlin starter; CB&J—roasted cashew butter, stout-apricotbacon jam and banana chips. L, D (daily). 143 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.997.2337 $$ Map C4 SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Creative sandwiches— Gangnam Korean meatball, El Cubano—and tasty salads.

B, L, D (daily). 414 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, 714.594.3899; 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001 $ Map N9, N13 SLAPFISH Boat-to-table cuisine: Lobster grilled cheese, lobster roll and “clobster cake.” L, D (daily). 3405 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 657.444.2291; 2727 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.723.0034; 19696 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.963.3900 $$ Map M13, H15, A3 TACKLE BOX Top Chef alumnus Brian Huskey’s unlikely “local grub shack” at sand’s edge on Corona del Mar State Beach. Maine lobster on squid-ink roll on weekends. W-Su 9 am-sunset; L (Tu). 3029 E. Shore Ave., Newport Beach, 949.723.0502 $$ Map M16 THE TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN Eclectic menu: chashu-pork sandwich, spaghetti sandwich, chili cheese tots. B, L, D (daily). 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.709.5545; 75 E. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.1029 $ Map east of D6, N13

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UMAMI BURGER Much lauded burgers; off-menu “tater tots.” Nine-course cocktail-pairing tasting menu Umami 101 at the Anaheim location. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center. 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1830; 338 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.991.8626; The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.957.8626 $ Map G15, I10, J13

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OCDINING ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Andrei’s, the Nature Conservancy’s “favorite green restaurant,” thinks responsibly in its sourcing and commitment to sustainability. Enjoy panko-crusted portobello mushroom fries, sea bass provencale or pear compress salad in the contemporary dining room or on the citrus-and-herb garden terrace. Andrei’s is known for craft cocktails such as their oak barrel-aged Manhattan.

Silver Oak Saturdays offer the vineyard’s bottles at less than half price: Alexander Valley Cabernet for $55, Napa Valley Cabernet for $89. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. 3-6:30 pm, Sat. 5-6:30 pm. Events and private dining available. L (M-F), D (M-Sa).

2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 • andreisrestaurant.com

ZOV’S Zov’s, recipient of the James Beard award and the 2016 Golden Foodies Chef of the Year award, was established in 1987

by Chef Karamardian and since has earned the respect of local, regional and national food critics. Zov’s offers American favorites with a Mediterranean influence. Signature dishes include tahini chicken tacos and nachos, kebab two ways, burgers, “pitza” pies, and sumac-dusted sea bass with shaved Brussels sprouts and caper-citrus sauce. Dining at Zov’s-in Anaheim, Newport Coast, Irvine or Tustin-is a must-do when visiting Orange County.

Happy hour daily 3-6 pm; banquet and meeting facilities with full-service catering for groups of 10 or more.

1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim • 714.280.9687 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast • 949.760.9687 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin • 714.838.8855 zovs.com

ROYAL THAI CUISINE Exquisite Thai dining in casually elegant surroundings is offered at this family-owned establishment, which has presented the tranquility of Thai cuisine and culture for more than 40 years. Dishes such as honey duck and enormous Lady Thai prawns from the Chao Praya River reflect the beguiling flavors of Thailand. The proprietors have served Thailand’s Royal Family and they roll out the red carpet for yours. The Sunset Dinner—four courses for $15.95—is offered from 5 to 7 pm; full-service bar. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su).

4001 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach 949.645.8424 • royalthaicuisine.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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OCDINING THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs contemporary California cuisine with a hip, vibrant and sophisticated setting to create a wine-country dining experience at the District in Tustin and Newport Beach, which boasts a Sunday brunch on the waterfront.

The OC Concierge Association named the destination its 2014 “Restaurant of the Year”, its fourth such award since opening in 2007. Executive chef and partner Yvon Goetz has been called an “unprecedented culinary genius.” The extensive wine cellars—6,000 bottles in Newport Beach, 7,500 in Tustin— complement the freshest and finest line-caught fish, USDA Prime steaks and exotic wild game.

2647 Park Ave., Tustin • 714.258.7600 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach • 949.999.6622 thewineryrestaurant.net

THE HARBOR GRILL Since 1984, proprietors John, Wanda and Keegan Hicks have taken pride in the sincere friendly attitude of the staff and the quality of food. Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday breakfast, the Harbor Grill offers a delicious array of fresh seafood cooked in a variety of styles including Southwestern, Pacific Rim, Caribbean, Cajun and Mediterranean. With its reasonably priced menu, premium cocktails and extensive wine list, the Harbor Grill has become a favorite with locals and a popular destination for visitors who are made to feel like “regulars.” Whether they’re enjoying the cozy dining room or the colorful terrace, the view of the harbor sails encourages a leisurely meal while a pianist adds the perfect background music each evening.

34499 Golden Lantern, Dana Point 949.240.1416 • harborgrill.com

21 OCEANFRONT Looking out onto the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island, 21 Oceanfront offers breathtaking sunset views from three beautifully appointed dining rooms. 21 Oceanfront is known for its baseball-cut swordfish, tender California red abalone, Alaskan king crab legs, fresh cuts of beef and its extensive wine list. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two as well as for corporate gatherings, the local favorite has been consistently recognized as one of O.C.’s best and most romantic restaurants. Complimentary transportation for groups of eight or more. Live entertainment and happy hour in the Oceanfront Bar and Lounge. D (nightly).

2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach 949.673.2100 • 21oceanfront.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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OCDINING JT SCHMID’S JT Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery, Orange County’s preferred brewhouse, steakhouse and clubhouse, has two locations, in Anaheim opposite the Honda Center and in Tustin at The District. Enjoy handcrafted microbrews and contemporary California cuisine including Angus steaks, burgers, salads, sandwiches, wood-fired pizza, pastas and seafood. Numerous widescreen televisions mean you’ll never miss the big game. Banquet and meeting facilities for 20 to 250 people. Enjoy the new outdoor patio in Anaheim or the full bar and premium cigars at both locations. Happy hour Monday-Friday. L, D (daily).

2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim • 714.634.9200 2415 Park Ave., Tustin • 714.258.0333 jtschmids.com

MIX RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE Savor globally inspired flavors and the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Frederic Castan Mix Restaurant and Lounge supports local farms and in-season items through its thoughtful approach and menu treatment. Using varied techniques, the Hilton Anaheim culinary team maintains the integrity of its ingredients through a refined, worldly execution that will leave any palate satisfied.

It is great for a quick bite during lunch hour and a cozy spot in which to “Mix” and mingle at happy hour. Complimentary valet parking. Mention WHERE OC to your server and receive 20% off your meal. (Offer excludes alcoholic beverages.) B, L, D (daily).

Hilton Anaheim Hotel, 777 Convention Way, Anaheim 714.740.4412 • hiltonanaheimhotel.com

BLUEFIN Critically acclaimed chef Takashi Abe serves classic and cutting-edge Japanese cuisine in an intimate setting with a dramatically illuminated sushi bar, rich furnishings and spectacular ocean views. Named one of the top rated restaurants in the U.S. by Zagat, Bluefin’s menu offers traditional sushi from the world’s most pristine waters combined with Europeaninspired fusion cooking. Signature specialties include Kobe beef with sautéed mushrooms specially prepared and served on a Japanese hot plate, and halibut carpaccio dusted with pink peppercorns and chives in a truffle-perfumed ponzu sauce.

For a truly memorable experience, just ask for the omakase, putting yourself in the hands of Chef Abe. L, D (daily).

7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast 949.715.7373 • bluefinbyabe.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.

ANAHEIM

MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak).......................42

CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................................37

PROVENANCE (California)..........................................35

ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE (Food Hall)..........43

MESA (Mediterranean-American)...................................39

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE (American).........................32

RED O (Mexican)...............................................................40

ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE (Italian)......................37

MEZZET (Mediterranean).................................................39

EATS KITCHEN (Eclectic).............................................36

ROYAL THAI (Thai).........................................................43

BENIHANA (Japanese)...................................................38

MORTON’S (Steak).........................................................42

EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................40

RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................34

CATAL / UVA BAR (Mediterranean).........................39

OLD VINE CAFE (American)......................................34

IL FORNAIO (Italian)......................................................38

SAPORI (Italian).................................................................38

ECCO RISTORANTE (Italian)....................................37

PIZZERIA ORTICA (Italian).........................................38

LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................45

SESSIONS DELI (Sandwiches).....................................45

HEALTHY JUNK (Vegan).............................................43

PUEBLO (Spanish).............................................................40

LUCCA CAFE (Mediterranean)....................................39

SLAPFISH (Quick Bites)..........................................45

J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ...................................34

QUATTRO CAFFE (Italian).........................................38

MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).............41

SOL COCINA (Mexican)................................................40

MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).............41

RESTAURANT MARIN (American)..........................34

NORTH ITALIA (Italian).................................................38

SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)...............................................39

MCDONALD’S (Quick Bites)................................45

ROYAL KHYBER (Indian).............................................37

OOTORO SUSHI (Japanese)........................................39

TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN (Quick Bites)...45

MIX (Eclectic).......................................................................36

SADDLE RANCH (American)......................................34

PAUL MARTIN’S (American).......................................34

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN (Eclectic)...........................36

MORTON’S (Steak).........................................................42

SEABIRDS KITCHEN (Vegan)...................................43

PUESTO (Mexican)...........................................................40

21 OCEANFRONT (Continental)...............................36

NAPA ROSE (California)................................................34

SEASONS 52 (American)..............................................34

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).............42

WATERLINE (Seafood)....................................................42

PIZZA PRESS (Italian)....................................................45

SHUCK OYSTER BAR (Seafood)..............................41

TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................................41

THE WINERY (California)..............................................35

POUR VIDA (Mexican)...................................................40

SOCIAL (American)...........................................................34

TRADE FOOD HALL (Food Hall)..............................44

RAINFOREST CAFE (Themed)..................................34

TACO ASYLUM (Mexican)...........................................40

TWENTY EIGHT (Chinese)...........................................35

NEWPORT COAST

RALPH BRENNAN’S (American)..............................34

TACO MARIA (Mexican)...............................................41

UMAMI BURGER (Quick Bites)..................................45

THE RANCH (American)................................................34

UMAMI BURGER (American).....................................45

ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK (American).......34

VACA (Spanish)...................................................................41

LAGUNA BEACH

ROY’S (Seafood).................................................................42

VITALY (Italian)...................................................................38

ANDREA (Italian)..............................................................37 BABETTE’S (American)...................................................32 THE BEACHCOMBER (American)...........................32 BLUEFIN (Japanese).........................................................38

ASADA (Mexican)..............................................................44

KRAVE KOBE BURGER (American).......................45

BREAK OF DAWN (Vietnamese Fusion).................43

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood)...................41

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).............42

WATER GRILL (Seafood)...............................................42

SLATER’S 50/50 (Burgers/Brew Pub) ..................34

DANA POINT

BROADWAY (American)................................................32

ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

UMAMI BURGER (American).....................................45

ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian)..............................37

DRIFTWOOD (American)..............................................32

ORANGE

WHO SONG AND LARRY’S (Mexican)...............41

AVEO (Mediterranean).......................................................39

HARVEST AT THE RANCH (American)................34

ZOV’S ANAHEIM (Mediterranean)...........................39

HARBOR GRILL (Seafood)...........................................41

K’YA BISTRO BAR (American)...................................34

BREA

RAYA (Latin Fusion)..................................................40

LAS BRISAS (Mexican)...................................................40

STONEHILL TAVERN (American).............................34

MOZAMBIQUE (South African)............................37

BRUXIE (Belgian)...............................................................44

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

MOULIN (French)...................................................36

CHA CHA’S TACOS (Mexican)..................................39

AU LAC (Vegan).................................................................43

CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................32

RECESS ROOM (American).........................................34

EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................40

FULLERTON

BRUNOS TRATTORIA (Italian).................................37

LILLIE’S Q (American).....................................................32 SLAPFISH (Seafood).........................................................45 TAPS FISH HOUSE (Brew Pub/Seafood)..............41 TEMPO URBAN KITCHEN (American)................34

BUENA PARK IL GARAGE (Italian)........................................................38 PARK AVE (American).....................................................34 PORTILLO’S (Quick Bites)......................................45 THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................43

CORONA DEL MAR FARMHOUSE (American).............................................32 FIVE CROWNS (Continental).......................................36

SKYLOFT (American).......................................................34

GARDEN GROVE

SPLASHES (California)....................................................35

BRODARD CHATEAU (Vietnamese).......................43

STUDIO (California)..........................................................35

THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................43

THREE SEVENTY COMMON (American)..............34

HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew Pub).......................34 THE HOBBIT (Continental)............................................36 MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................41 ORANGE HILL (Continental)........................................36 PIZZA PRESS (Italian)....................................................45 PROVISIONS (Quick Bites)....................................45 SADDLE RANCH (American)......................................34 WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN (American).......... 34

URTH CAFFÉ (California)..............................................35

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN (Quick Bites)...45

BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS (Steak)..........................42

ANCHOR HITCH (Seafood).........................................41

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

BRUXIE (Belgian)...............................................................44

EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................40

BAD TO THE BONE (American)..............................32

DUKE’S (Seafood)..............................................................41

UNION MARKET (Food Halls)....................................44

EL ADOBE (Mexican)......................................................40

LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................45

NEWPORT BEACH

LOT 579 (Food Hall). ..............................................44

TACKLE BOX (Quick Bites). ..................................45

RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................34

COSTA MESA/ SOUTH COAST METRO

SAINT MARC PUB-CAFÉ (American)...................34 SANDY’S HB (American)...............................................34

ANQI (Vietnamese Fusion).......................................43

SEALEGS WINE BAR (California)............................35

ANTONELLO RISTORANTE (Italian)...................37

SEASALT WOODFIRE GRILL (California)...........35

ARC (American)...................................................................32

SESSIONS DELI (Sandwiches)............................................. 45

BURGER LOUNGE (Quick Bites) . .......................44

SHADES (American).........................................................35

HAMAMORI (Japanese).................................................38

FRANCOLI GOURMET (Italian)...............................37 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican)..........40

MISSION VIEJO

OLD CROW SMOKEHOUSE (American)...........34

HABANA (Latin)................................................................40

BURGER PARLOR (Quick Bites)...........................44

THE WHARF (Seafood)..................................................42

OLA MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican)....................40

ECCO RISTORANTE (Italian)....................................37

BRUXIE (Belgian)...............................................................44

HUNTINGTON BEACH

SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)................................................34

EAT CHOW (American)..................................................32

SAPPHIRE (Eclectic).........................................................36 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN (Steak)......................42

THE QUIET WOMAN (American)...........................34

DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese)..............................................35

ROYAL THAI (Thai).........................................................43

CITIZEN KITCHEN (American)..................................32

MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................41

THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)..................................42

ROYAL HAWAIIAN (American).................................34

BURGER PARLOR (Quick Bites)...........................44

PIROZZI (Italian)................................................................38

CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................32

REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK (American).......34

ANEPALCO’S (Mexican-French)..................................39

SLAPFISH (Quick Bites)..........................................45 SLATER’S 50/50 (Brew Pub) ................................34 SOLITA (Mexican) .............................................................40 TANNERS (American)......................................................35 THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................43 WATERTABLE (American).............................................34 ZIMZALA (American).......................................................34

A RESTAURANT (American).......................................32

PASCAL (French)................................................................36 RAMOS HOUSE CAFE (American).........................34

BACK BAY BISTRO (American)................................32

SANTA ANA

BAYSIDE (American)........................................................32

CHAPTER ONE (American).........................................32

BEACH BARREL (Quick Bites).....................................44

C4 DELI (American)..........................................................44

BENIHANA (Japanese)...................................................38

EL MERCADO (Mexican)..............................................40

BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood)...................................41

4TH STREET MARKET (Food Halls). ..................43

CROW BURGER KITCHEN (Gastropub)...............44

GD BRO (Quick Bites)......................................................45

CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................................37

IRENIA (Filipino)......................................................36

DORY DELI (Quick Bites).......................................44

PLAYGROUND (American)..........................................34

EAT CHOW (American)..................................................32

TANGATA (California)......................................................35

EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................40

SAN CLEMENTE

FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean)......................................39 FLEMING’S (Steak)..........................................................42 GRATITUDE (Vegan).......................................................43 HOPDODDY (American)...............................................32 IL BARONE RISTORANTE (Italian).......................37

THE CELLAR (American)...............................................32 MRK PUBLIC (Gastropub).............................................34

SEAL BEACH 320 MAIN (American).....................................................34

JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR (American)...............32

TUSTIN

LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................45

BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood)...................................41

HOLSTEINS (American).................................................... 32

IRVINE

LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ (American)............32

HOPDODDY (American)...............................................32

IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian).....................................38

AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Brazilian)....................42

MOULIN (French)..............................................................36

J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ..................................34

LEATHERBY’S CAFE ROUGE (American).............32

ANDREI’S (American)......................................................32

NANA SAN (Japanese)..................................................38

UNION MARKET (Food Halls). ............................44

MARCHÉ MODERNE (French).................................36

ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian)..............................37

OAK GRILL (California)....................................................34

THE WINERY (California)..............................................35

MARRAKESH (Moroccan).............................................37

BURGER LOUNGE (Quick Bites).........................44

PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian).........................................38

ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

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T H E G U I D E | E N T E R TA I N M E N T

special events BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 9-10, 16-17. Meet at the water’s edge for a spectacular parade of decorated vessels. 7:30 pm. Dana Point Harbor, 949.923.2255, danapointharbor.org Map J16 O.C. BREW HO HO! Dec. 10. Craft beers, holiday ales, unlimited 2-ounce pours. $55, designated drivers $20. Noon-4 pm. Phoenix Club, 1340 S. Sanderson Ave., Anaheim, 949.363.9960, ocbrewhoho.com Map I11 NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE Dec. 14-18. More than 100 elaborately decorated vessels large and small cruise the harbor for the 108th renowned annual event. Newport Harbor, 949.729.4400, christmasparadeboats.com Map N14 CRUISE OF LIGHTS Dec. 16-19, 22-23. Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee “Music in Paradise” annual boat tours of harbor homes benefit Philharmonic Society of O.C. Call for prices. 16889 Algonquin St., Huntington Beach, 714.840.7542, cruiseoflights.org Map C10

Lots Brewing

Brewery hotbed North County adds three venues in Anaheim.

Brewmaster Victor Novak (exTaps) oversees Golden Road (2210 E. Orangewood Ave., 714.912.4015), second location of a L.A.-based enterprise, offering Wolf Among Weeds IPA and other brews opposite Angel Stadium. Patrick Rue of the Bruery opens a second tasting room, Bruery Terreux (1174 N. Grove St., 714.996.6258), devoted to “wildly traditional bière,” wild-yeast beers and sour beers such as Frucht: Yumberry.

Blending “Midwest heritage with West Coast progression,” Unsung Brewing Co. (500 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714.406.3098) is the first tenant at MAKE, a collection of food and beverage vendors in a 1917 marmalade factory opposite Anaheim Packing House. Its Buzz Man is inspired by lighter-style Midwest “lawnmower beers.”

WINTER FEST Dec. 16-Jan. 1. Ice skating, reindeer feeding, carnival games and nightly Christmas tree lighting ceremonies with snowfall. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, winterfestoc.com Map K13 WINTER FANTASY Weekends through Dec. 18. The Sawdust Art Festival grounds are transformed into a winter wonderland; 175 artists sell their creations as holiday gifts. Plus food, art classes, petting zoo and Santa Claus.

10 am-6 pm. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030, sawdustfestival.org Map G15.

CAVALIA’S ODYSSEO Through Jan. 8. Immersive theatrical experience, the world’s largest touring show, marries equestrian arts, stage arts and theatrical effects under an enormous big top. Interstate 405 and Highway 133, Irvine, 866.999.8111, cavalia.net Map D5 DISNEY ON ICE Dec. 21-25. Action-packed ice spectacular Worlds of Enchantment showcases characters from Disney Pixar’s Cars, Toy Story 3, Disney’s Little Mermaid and Frozen. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 NEWPORT BEACH RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 16-29.

Restaurants offer discounted prix-fixe menus. Various locations, 949.719.6100, dinenb.com NEWPORT BEACH JAZZ PARTY Feb. 23-26. The 17th annual event features vocalists, big bands, orchestras and pianists. Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.759.5003, newportbeachjazzparty.com Map L15

Theater A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 24. 36th annual production of Dickens’ classic about the Christmas spirit features Hal Landon Jr. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 SLEEPING BEAUTY Dec. 7-30. Contemporary twist on the classic tale features songs from Pharrell, Lady Gaga, Jessie J and LMFAO. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 ELF Dec. 20-Jan. 1. Comedic musical based on the motion picture tells the story of Buddy, raised in the North Pole by elves. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 THE ROOMMATE Jan. 3-22. Story of middle-aged woman who seeks the shocking truth about her odd new

guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 61-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

index Special Events.................. 50 Theater............................... 50 Music + Dance................. 50 Sports....................................51 Attractions..........................51 Museums...........................52 Shopping Destinations...53

Golf Courses......................54 Active Outdoors..............54 Beaches...............................54 Nightlife...............................56 Tours + Transport.............57 Tickets.................................58

roommate. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 RENT Jan. 6-8. Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning production on its 20th-anniversary touring production.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 CHAPATTI Jan. 11-Feb. 5. Humorous and heartwarming tale about two animal lovers in Dublin who re-discover the importance of human companionship. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 MATILDA THE MUSICAL Jan. 17-29. An extraordinary girl changes her destiny with her vivid imagination and sharp mind. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 MOBY DICK Jan. 20-Feb. 19. Stage adaptation of Herman Melville’s classic novel. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER Opening Feb. 28. Tony Award-winning musical presents ... a lighter side of murder? Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13

MUSIC + DANCE HONDA CENTER Dec. 3 Chicano Soul Legends.

Dec. 4 Tenor Andrea Bocelli. Dec. 10 Comedian Katt Williams. Dec. 16 95.9 The Fish Christmas. Feb. 15-16 Twenty One Pilots. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Dec. 2-3 Men Alive: Christmas Vacation. Dec. 4 George Benson. Dec. 10-24 Festival Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker. Dec. 12 Canadian Brass. Jan. 8 Mozart Classical Orchestra. Jan. 10 National Theater Live: No Man’s Land. Jan. 12 John Pizzarelli Quartet. Jan. 19 Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Jan. 21 Fin de Fiesta. Jan. 22 Mozart Classical Orchestra. Jan. 27.

Poppin’—The Story of Blue Note Records. Jan. 28 Love & Sax. Feb. 3 Backhausdance. Feb. 4 Actress-vocalist Linda Purl. Feb. 5 St. Lawrence String Quartet. Feb. 10-11 Dancer Savion Glover. Feb. 23-25 UCI Dance. Feb. 27 Author Fran Lebowitz. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall Dec. 4 Johnny Mathis 60th Anniversary Christmas Tour. Dec. 9-18 American Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker. Dec. 20-Jan. 1 Elf. Jan. 6-8 Rent. Jan. 17-29 Matilda The Musical. Feb. 8 Batsheva Dance Company.

Feb. 14 Dancing With the Stars: Live! Opening Feb. 28 A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Dec. 1-3 Pacific Symphony, Strauss’ Vienna. Dec. 3 Nutcracker for Kids; Vienna Boys Choir. Dec. 4 Handel’s Messiah. Dec. 6 Vanguard

Irvine, home of UC Irvine and hailed as one of the safest cities in the nation, has also been named No. 2 in livability.com’s Top 10 college towns.

50 SOCALPULSE.COM WINTER 2017

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University, Christmas Fantasia. Dec. 8 Good Will Toward Men, Millennial Choirs & Orchestra. Dec. 10 The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra (matinee); Preservation Hall Jazz Band Creole Christmas. Dec. 12 Taiwan Philharmonic. Dec. 14 Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.

Dec. 16-17 The Ten Tenors. Dec. 18-19 Pacific Chorale, Tis the Season! Dec. 20 Pacific Symphony, organist Todd Wilson, Holiday Organ Spectacular. Dec. 21 David Archuleta Christmas with Nathan Pacheco. Dec. 22 The Klezmatics’ Happy Joyous Hannukah, Lyrics by Woody Guthrie. Dec. 23 Fiesta Navidad. Jan. 12-14 Pacific Symphony.

Jan. 14 Pacific Symphony, Hansel & Gretel. Jan. 15 Pacific Symphony. Jan. 20 Gregory Porter and Mavis Staples.

Jan. 22 Violinist Itzhak Perlman. Jan. 24 Pianist Emanuel Ax. Jan. 28 Lunar New Year. Feb. 2-4 Pacific Symphony.

Feb. 8 Kodo. Feb. 10-11 Michael Bolton. Feb. 12 Pianist Yuja Wang, violinist Leonidas Kavakos. Feb. 23-28 Pacific Symphony, Aïda. Samueli Theater Dec. 10 Takacs Quartet.

Jan. 19-21 Jerry Herman, Broadway Legacy. Feb. 2 Pacifica Quartet. Feb. 18-19 The Little Prince. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Dec. 3 South Coast Symphony, Opera Favorites. Dec. 11 All-American Boys Chorus, Sounds of Christmas. Dec. 17 Na Leo Holiday Concert. Jan. 13 Aliso Niguel High School. Jan. 18 Eric Tingstad and Nancy Rumbel. Jan. 21 Liz Story, Lisa Downing, Kori Carothers; James Garner Tribute to Johnny Cash.

Jan. 26 Prague Philharmonia. Jan. 28 Muriel Anderson.

Feb. 3 Tribute to Charles McPherson. Feb. 5 Pacific Symphony. Feb. 11 Hypnotic Brass Ensemble. Jan. 18-19 Cellist Matt Haimovitz. Feb. 21 Maria Schneider Orchestra. Feb. 26 The Piano Men: A Tribute to Sir Elton John and Billy Joel. Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, soka.edu Map E6

Sports HONDA CENTER Dec. 7 Anaheim Ducks vs. Carolina Hurricanes. Dec. 9 Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks. Dec. 6 Ducks vs. Pittsburgh Penguins. Dec. 11 Ducks vs. Ottawa Senators. Dec. 27 Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks. Jan. 1 Ducks vs. Philadelphia Flyers. Jan. 4 Ducks vs. Detroit Red Wings. Jan. 6 Ducks vs. Arizona Coyotes. Jan. 8 Ducks vs. Minnesota Wild. Jan. 10 Ducks vs. Dallas Stars. Jan. 15 Ducks vs. St. Louis Blues. Jan. 17 Ducks vs. Tampa Bay Lightning. Jan. 19 Ducks vs. Colorado Avalanche. Feb. 17 Ducks vs. Florida Panthers. Feb. 19 Ducks vs. L.A. Kings.

Feb. 22 Ducks vs. Boston Bruins. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11

attractions AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC One of the largest aquariums in the U.S.; highlights include Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest and ethereal sea jellies. Daily 9 am6 pm. $17.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BIG AIR TRAMPOLINE PARK Indoor jumping surfaces include trampoline dodgeball courts, plus rock-climbing wall and mechanical bull. Open daily; call for hours. 8320 On the Mall, Buena Park, 844.550.5867. 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, 949.305.9788 Map B2, G16 CHOCXO Bean-to-bar chocolatier and factory. Tours Tu-Sa (ages 6 and up) with samples of cocoa nibs, cocoa liquor and products; call for schedule. 9461 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.825.5781 Map D5 CHRIST CATHEDRAL Architect Philip Johnson’s glass cathedral and other architectural must-sees by Richard Neutra and Richard Meier. Tours M-Sa 10 am and 1 pm. Free. 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, 949.375.5763 Map J10 DISCOVERY CUBE Hands-on exhibits, shows in science center and Julianne Argyros Showcase Theater. Through Jan. 16 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer.

Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95-$17.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13

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AT T R A C T I O N S + M U S E U M S falconry, four-course feast. $36.95-$61.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM Recently reopened following a $15 million renovation.

Some 70 new exhibits include a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office, another focusing on his historic China trip. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.983.9120 Map A4 OCEAN INSTITUTE Aboard tall ship Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor. Tide-pool sessions; marine-mammal cruises; blue-whale safaris. Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm; tour Th-F 3:30 pm. $4.50-$6.50, under 3 free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274 Map J16

Dancing With the Stars Live tour stops at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s first theme park recently marked its diamond 60th anniversary. Main Street continues to look back with Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln; Tomorrowland looks to the future with Star Wars—construction has begun on a Star Warsthemed land. A mountain range of thrill rides include Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain. Call for hours.

Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $89$113, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Park recently celebrated Disney’s 60th anniversary. Soarin’ Around the World; California Screamin’; World of Color water-andlight show; The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. Final day for the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is Jan. 2. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $93-$99. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10

ORANGE COUNTY ZOO Rustic zoo; animals of the Southwest. M-F 10 am-3:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-4:30 pm. $2, under 3 free. Parking $3-$5. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6847 Map C5 PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Venue offering swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard Spanish galleon replica marks 10th anniversary. Call for hours. $36.95-$59.95, under 3 free. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8 QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—in Long Beach Harbor.

Shops, dining, art deco lounge; Russian Foxtrot Submarine adjacent. Self-guided/guided tours 10 am-6 pm. Through Jan. 8: Chill. $14.95-$30.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511 Map northwest of C1 THE RIDE 7D Experiences combine roller coaster simulation and laser-blasting. Su-Th 11 am-9 pm; F-Sa 10 am-11 pm. $9; three rides $20. Irvine Spectrum Center, 746 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, ​949.769.6772 Map D5 ROCKREATION Indoor climbing facility with instruction at all levels. M-Th noon-10 pm; F noon-9 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $11-$16. 1300 Logan Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.556.7625 Map J12

DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre pedestrian promenade adjacent to Disney parks offers dining, shopping, cinema and nightlife, including Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Sanuk for casual shoes and ESPN Zone.

Non-gated, free admission. 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10

SAFARI PARK Wildlife preserve with vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. $48; children 3-11 $38; kids 2 and under free. Cars $10-15. Open daily, call for hours. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702 Map southeast of F6

FLIGHTDECK FLIGHT SIMULATION CENTER Aerial dogfights use very realistic F-16 fighter jet cockpit simulators. No experience necessary. Minimum age 11, height 4 feet 11. Starts at $59. Tu-Su 11:30 am-8:30 pm.

1650 S. Sinclair, Anaheim, 714.937.1511 Map I11

SAN DIEGO ZOO Renowned zoo has 4,000 rare and endangered animals in state-of-the-art environments. $48; 3-11 $38; 2 and under free. Free parking.

Open daily, call for hours. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515 Map southeast of F6

FULLERTON ARBORETUM The county’s largest botanical garden; more than 4,000 plant species set amid ponds and streams. Four main collections: Mediterranean, woodland, desert and cultivated. 8 am-4:30 pm. Free; $5 suggested donation. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657.278.3407 Map A3

SANTA ANA ZOO Modest, idyllic zoo. Attractions include the Crean Family Farm and Zoofari Express Train Ride. Daily, 10 am-4 pm. $7-$10, under 3 free. 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, 714.836.4000 Map H14

K1 SPEED Indoor kart racing offers challenging track for speed enthusiasts. Call for hours. Arrangements for private parties or corporate events possible. $20. 17221 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.250.0242; 1000 N. Edward Court, Anaheim, 714.632.6999 Map J14, B4 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions include Voyage to the Iron Reef. Premier collection of coasters includes Silver Bullet and Xcelerator.

Camp Snoopy for younger children. Call for hours and prices; under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map G8 LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA Theme park features some 60 rides, shows and attractions. Call for hours. $85$91, under 3 free. Sea Life Aquarium, add $18. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.LEGO Map south of F6 MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Pure Spanish stallions, swordsmanship and

SEAWORLD Marine-themed attractions include white manatee, Explorer’s Reef, thrill ride Journey to Atlantis and Blue Horizons show. Open daily. Call for hours, combo rates. $83-$89, under 3 free. 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, 800.257.4268 Map southeast of F6 SHERMAN LIBRARY & GARDENS Intimate 10-garden botanical collection. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm.

Research library open M-F 10:30 am-4 pm. $1-$3, under 12 free. Free first Monday of the month. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261 Map M16 TEATRO MARTINI Cabaret experience for couples and groups; comedy, acrobatics, magic, singing, dancing and dining. Th-F 8 pm, Sa 9 pm, Su 8 pm. $69.95. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 844.249.7865 Map G8 THE TRIANGLE Dining and entertainment destination.

Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, nightclub Sutra, Starlight Cinemas plus restaurants La Vida Cantina, Saddle Ranch Chop House and Black Knight Gastro Lounge. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map K12

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD New: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Rides at movie-based theme park include Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem; tram tour takes in King Kong 360 3-D. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map north of A1 VANS SKATEPARK Skateboard mecca has combi pool and open street course; Vans store is adjacent. Daily 10 am-10 pm. $12 weekdays; $15 weekends. 20 City Blvd.

West No. 2, Orange, 714.769.3800 Map J11

Museums BOWERS KIDSEUM Ethnic arts and culture for children near Bowers Museum. First Sunday celebrations.

Sa-Su 10 am-4 pm. $6, under 2 free. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.480.1520 Map G13 BOWERS MUSEUM Dedicated to preservation and exhibition of world cultural arts plus displays with a California focus. Through Jan. 29 Virgin of Guadalupe: Images in Colonial Mexico. Through Feb. 26 See & Unseen: Photographs by Imogen Cunningham. Opens Dec. 10 As She Liked It: The Shakespearean Roles of Madame Modjeska.

Opening Feb. 25 Frida Kahlo—Her Photos. Ongoing Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan; Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands; Ancient Arts of China; First Californians; California: The Golden Years.; Mystery From the Tomb: The Face Beneath the Mask. Tu-Su 10 am-4 pm. $10-$15, under 12 free. Separate admission for some exhibits. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana 714.567.3600, bowers.org Map G13 HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERNATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM Board culture spotlights Duke Kahanamoku, classic surfboards, Endless Summer film.

New exhibit Famers. Su-M noon-5 pm; Tu until 9 pm; W-F until 7 pm; Sa 11 am-7 pm. Free. 411 Olive Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.960.3483 Map N8 IRVINE MUSEUM California Impressionism within an office building. Tu-Sa 11 am-5 pm. Free. 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.476.0294 Map J14 LAGUNA ART MUSEUM California Impressionism and contemporary cultural art. Through Jan. 15 Miss Hills of Laguna Beach; Phillip K. Smith III: Bent Parallel. M-Tu, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am-9 pm. $5-$7, under 12 free.

307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8971 Map H15 LYON AIR MUSEUM Very rare operational 20th-century aircraft and other historical vehicles on airport perimeter. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $6-$12, under 5 free. 19300 Ike Jones Drive, Santa Ana, 714.210.4585 Map J13 MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Exhibits at jewel of the California missions (1776). Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. Ongoing Mission Treasures; Native American Museum; Plein Air Art Reproductions; South Wing of the Mission. Digital audio tour free with admission. Daily 9 am-5 pm. $6-$9, under 3 free.

26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300 Map I17 MUZEO Intimate exhibition space on Center Street Promenade. Through Jan. 2 SoCal Ceramics and Glass Exhibition. Through Jan. 8 2nd Annual Muzeo Express: Holiday Model Trains. Opening Feb. 12 Dressing Downton: Changing Fashion for Changing Times. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$10. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10 ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART California modern and contemporary art. Through Dec. 4 American Mosaic: Picturing Modern Art Through The Eye of Duncan Phillips; Brian bress: Make Your Own Friends; Li Hui: V; The Pacific Project: Zheng Chongbin. Opening Jan. 7 Pop Art Design. W-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am-8 pm. $10$12, under 12 free. 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach 949.759.1122 Map L15

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SHOPPING

shopping destinations ANAHEIM GARDENWALK Retail, entertainment and dining destination near Disneyland. Stores include Skechers, Harley-Davidson and Kensington Luggage.

321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.635.7410 Map I10 BELLA TERRA Striking Italian-themed open-air center features Whole Foods Market, REI outdoor-sports specialist and 20-screen cinema. 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.897.2534 Map C2 BREA MALL O.C.’s second-largest mall is home to Nordstrom and Macy’s and 174 other retailers including a Tesla store. Kidgets, Nature Republic, Pink and Kayla’s Cake are new. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, 714.990.2733 Map A3 THE CAMP Green-oriented enclave for outdoors enthusiasts includes eco store SEED People’s Market and dining options Taco Asylum, Ecco and Old Vine Cafe. 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa Map J13 CORONA DEL MAR PLAZA Boutiques include Tommy Bahama, Diane’s swimwear, Gail Jewelers and Jack’s Surfboards. Other draws: Sprinkles Ice Cream.

800-984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach Map M15 CRYSTAL COVE SHOPPING CENTER Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques Coastal Cool and new Atelier 7918, fine dining including Bluefin, Babette’s and Mastro’s Ocean Club. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast Map M17 THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY Sprawling destination (1 million square feet) offers lots of shopping (Denim Lab), dining (the Winery) and leisure activities (Pinot’s Palette—color me wine!). Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.9090 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex includes Build-A-Bear, Studio Disney 365 and Ridemakerz. (See Attractions.) 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 FASHION ISLAND Elegant open-air center with anchors Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom. Restaurants include Sushi Roku, Fig & Olive and Hopdoddy. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15 5 POINTS PLAZA Neighborhood center offers Loft, Vans, Charming Charlie jewelry, Cloudmover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi; barking lot for dogs! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 5pointsplaza.com Map D2 IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER Moorish-themed center includes nation’s most visited movie complex, Nordstrom and lots of restaurants. The Ride 7D is new. Giant Ferris wheel visible from freeways. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 THE LAB Youth-skewed boutiques, hip environment.

Urban Outfitters, Eye Society and Crew Salon; dining includes Habana, Gypsy Den. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 LIDO MARINA VILLAGE New. Clare V. and Jenni Kayne boutiques, Alchemy Works gallery and Nobu restaurant are inaugural tenants at revitalized harborside pedestrian-friendly shopping village. 400 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, 949.675.8662 Map M15 LOS OLIVOS MARKETPLACE Blue-Eyed Girl, SwimSpot and Newport Colony Home join Whole Foods Market and a dozen restaurants at new center. 86738697 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.720.3100 Map D5 MAINPLACE Indoor million-square-foot center offers Nordstrom, 190 shops and 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball and open-air swimming. 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13

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GOLF course. M-Th $130, F-Su $175. Includes cart. 1 Golf Club Drive, Irvine, 949.653.5300 Map D5 PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Two gorgeous 18-hole courses at the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; there are spectacular coastal views from virtually every hole. $290 daily. 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 877.735.4226 Map L17 STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF CLUB Eighteen-hole course features rolling greens, picturesque barn and canyon, wetland vistas and the county’s longest hole. M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D5

Newly renovated Nixon Presidential Library & Museum in Yorba Linda NEWPORT COAST SHOPPING CENTER Neighborhood center includes Blue Eyed Girl, Jeanni Champagne and the Passionate Collector. 21101-21185 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.3100 Map L17 THE OUTLETS AT ORANGE Includes DKNY, Levi’s, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Vans Skatepark for indoor boarding. 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.4001 Map J11 OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE Beautiful Spanishinspired center with ocean views. Stores include Vans, Guess and Nike. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, outletsatsanclemente.com Map south of F6 PACIFIC CITY New. Beautiful center on 30 acres with beach views from every plaza, deck and patio. H&M, the Wearhouse, West of Camden, Heirlooms & Hardware, Saint Marc Pub-Cafe. 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.930.2345 Map N9 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Highlights include Design Within Reach midcentury showroom and Surfas Culinary District. OC Mix features 30 vendors—quirky retail and unforgettable Taco María restaurant. 33033323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12 SOUTH COAST PLAZA “The Ultimate Shopping Experience” is a state tourist destination. Marquee retailers include Christian Louboutin and Chanel. New: Rimowa luggage and Massimo Dutti. Macy’s Home Store and Crate & Barrel in Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13

GOLF COURSES ALISO CREEK GOLF COURSE Picturesque nine-hole course in canyon with coastal breezes and 19 bunkers.

M-Th $29, F $34, Sa-Su $38. 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 Map I16 ANAHEIM HILLS GOLF COURSE “The Hills.” Fine golf value, with 18 holes set amid vistas, valleys, streams, oaks and sycamores. M-Th $52, F $59, Sa-Su $70. Includes cart and GPS. Twilight rates available. 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road, Anaheim, 714.998.3041 Map B5 DAD MILLER GOLF COURSE Tiger Woods’ home course during high school; for beginning to intermediate golfers. M-Th $29, F $36, Sa-Su $41. 430 N. Gilbert St., Anaheim, 714.765.3481 Map G8 MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views bound at 18-hole course. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. Monarch Beach Resort, 50 Monarch Beach Resort Drive North, Dana Point, 949.240.8247 Map J16 OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bull-nose carved bunkers and picturesque greens on Tom Fazio

TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB Resort-style course designed by Ted Robinson. Challenging greens, palm trees and lakes, remodeled clubhouse. Private caddie service. M-Th $115, F $135, Sa-Su $165. Additional cart fee. 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, 714.730.1611 Map C5

Active Outdoors AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in high-performance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2

CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK Hiking and mountain biking trails, sandy coves and steep cliffs. Historic district with beach cottages and Beachcomber café. Irvine Coast Marine Life Refuge offshore. Lifeguards, restrooms. Fee for parking. East Coast Highway between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, 949.494.3539 Map E4 DOHENY STATE BEACH Popular swimming beach, interpretive center. All amenities, fire pits. Fee for parking. Dana Point Harbor, along Del Obispo and Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.496.6172 Map K17 HUNTINGTON CITY BEACH Wide, sandy beach; amenities include fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Beach Boulevard and Main Street, Huntington Beach, 714.536.5281 Map N9 HUNTINGTON STATE BEACH Expansive, sandy beach; amenities include fire pits. Bolsa Chica Wetlands are across the highway. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Santa Ana River and Main Street, Huntington Beach, 714.536.1454 Map N10 LITTLE CORONA DEL MAR BEACH Steep paved path to picturesque cove; tide pools filled with anemones and starfish are great for kids. Ocean Boulevard and Poppy Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16

CA SURF ‘N’ PADDLE Year-round surfing and stand-up-paddleboard lessons. Free parking. 689 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.1423 Map H15

MAIN BEACH Large beach close to shops and restaurants offers great people-watching, basketball, volleyball, chess. All amenities. Metered parking. At Broadway and Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map F5

CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH SURF LESSONS Schools include Endless Sun Surf, 949.533.1022; Newport Surf Camp, 866.787.3267; and Surf Newport Now, 949.505.5500 newportbeachca.gov Map D3

NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL BEACH Popular golden strand with many fine surfing spots. All amenities, including fire pits. Metered parking. Along Oceanfront at Newport Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N13

PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES Electric bike rentals $14 per hour with two-hour minimum or $50 per day. Tour three piers and Newport Harbor for $69. 301 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.2782; 2515 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.612.7989; 4624 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.274.7944 Map N9, M16, D5

NEWPORT DUNES RESORT Beach at RV park on the Back Bay has full-time lifeguards, giant inflatable in-water novelties (including teeter-totter and climbing apparatus) and various water vessels for rent. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.DUNE Map M14

SKYTHRILLS Aerobatics in biplanes. Receive instruction, assume control of the aircraft, execute maneuvers such as a loop, roll, spin or inverted pass over the coast—no experience necessary! Gentler flights in open-cockpit 1930s biplane. Includes recorded DVD. 230 Dale Place, Fullerton, 866.484.7455 Map A2

BEAches + Parks ALISO CREEK COUNTY BEACH Steep shore creates powerful waves. All amenities and fire pits. Pay-anddisplay parking $1/hour. 31131 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280 Map I16 BALBOA BEACH Pristine sunning and swimming beach. All amenities. Metered parking. Along Balboa Boulevard at Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N14 BOLSA CHICA STATE BEACH Good for grunion hunting! All amenities and fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Main Street and Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach, 714.846.3460 Map N9 CAPISTRANO BEACH Wide and unblemished spot offers all amenities. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. 35005 Beach Road, Capo Beach, 949.923.2280 Map F6 CORONA DEL MAR STATE BEACH Large, sandy beach—with volleyball—below beautiful homes.

Lifeguards, all amenities, fire pits. Waveless cove adjacent. Fee for parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Marguerite Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16

PICNIC BEACH Known for picnics and panoramas.

Lifeguard and, picnic tables. Metered parking. Myrtle Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6573 Map H15 PIRATES COVE Secluded beach with harbor views; few to no waves make it perfect for little ones. Paid parking at Corona del Mar State Beach; free street parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Harbor Channel, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3309 Map F6 POCHE BEACH Small, sandy surfing beach. Free street parking. Camino Capistrano at Pacific Coast Highway, San Clemente, 949.361.8261 Map J17 ROCKPILE BEACH Rocky surfing beach. Metered parking. At Myrtle Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6573 Map H15 SALT CREEK COUNTY BEACH Long, pristine stretch below the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Beautiful, grassy Bluff Park with basketball court. All amenities. Pay-anddisplay parking $1/hour. Off Ritz-Carlton Drive, 33333 S. Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.923.2280 Map J16 SAN CLEMENTE CITY BEACH 1,200-foot pier (1920s), wide beach, good surf. All amenities. Metered parking. The train goes right by the beach. 620 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.361.8219 Map K17 SAN CLEMENTE STATE BEACH Popular mile-long beach below sandstone bluffs offers all amenities, a nature trail and butterfly trail. Fee for parking. 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente, 949.492.3156 Map K17 SEAL BEACH Popular surfing beach has a lifeguard and showers. Metered parking. Main Street and Seal Beach Pier, Seal Beach, 562.430.2613 Map C1

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B E A C H E S & PA R KS SHAW’S COVE Picturesque cove has tide pools; popular diving destination. Metered parking. At Fairview Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach Map H15 TABLE ROCK BEACH 144 wooden steps lead to a dramatic cove with dangerous currents at the base of a cliff. Free street parking. First Avenue and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16 THOUSAND STEPS BEACH Two-hundred-something concrete steps lead to a small beach at the base of a cliff.

Free street parking. Ninth Avenue and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16 VICTORIA BEACH Laguna’s prettiest beach has a tower fit for Rapunzel and a man-made, high-tide swimming pool circa 1920. Metered parking. Victoria Street off Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map H15 THE WEDGE World-renowned bodysurfing and bodyboarding spot. The break is dangerous; watch unless you’re an expert. Free parking lot. West Jetty View Park, tip of Balboa Peninsula, end of Channel Road, Newport Beach, 949.644.3309 Map N16

Laguna Beach

Southern California’s premier coastal destination, located in the heart of ‘The OC’.

WEST STREET BEACH Small cove beach with volleyball courts. Metered parking. West Street and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16

Event Calendar

Sawdust Art Festival’s 26th Annual Winter Fantasy | November 19, 20, 25, 26, 27; December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18 10am-6pm Experience unique artwork by 175 artists, live holiday entertainment, great outdoor cafes, art classes and demonstrations, petting zoo, Santa and much, much more!

With amazing art gifts, thousands of holiday decorations and picture-perfect moments, the Sawdust’s Winter Fantasy will become your family’s holiday tradition.

Five Weekends: November 19 through December 18, 2016 open 10am-6pm.

949.494.3030 sawdustartfestival.org Chapatti at The Laguna Playhouse January 11 – February 5, 2017 Annabella Price and Mark Bramhall star in this humorous and heartwarming tale about two animal lovers in Dublin, and their unexpected spark as they re-discover the importance of human companionship. This second-chance comedy celebrates these unforgettable characters who still believe in love.

949.497.2787 lagunaplayhouse.com Laguna Beach Music Festival February 8-12, 2017 The 2017 Laguna Beach Music Festival kicks off with the Festival Prelude, a special evening celebrating the Festival’s 15th anniversary and years of showcasing outstanding musical talent. Prelude guests will be entertained by the Festival’s stellar alumni, including Angela Ahn, the Calder Quartet, Stan Freese, and 2017 Festival Artistic Director Johannes Moser.

949.715.9713 lagunabeachmusicfestival.com

VisitLagunaBeach.com

REGIONAL PARKs CARBON CANYON REGIONAL PARK Wild and rugged canyon terrain good for hiking and horseback riding. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea, 714.973.3160 Map A4 CLARK REGIONAL PARK Ideal for picnicking, fishing and tennis. Interpretive center houses fossils of local prehistoric plants and animals. 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park, 714.973.3170 Map A3 IRVINE REGIONAL PARK On land donated by James Irvine in 1897, California’s oldest regional park houses the Orange County Zoo and Irvine Park Railroad. Oldgrowth oak and sycamore trees. Families have picnicked at the park for more than 100 years. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6835 Map B5 LAGUNA NIGUEL REGIONAL PARK Outdoor activities include tennis, volleyball and bicycling in well-landscaped setting. There’s fishing on a 44-acre lake. 28241 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2240 Map F6 MASON REGIONAL PARK Large grassy areas, picnic shelters, hundreds of acres of protected land with three miles of paved trails for hikers and bikers. Many native animal species; lake and lush shade trees. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, 949.923.2220 Map D4 MILE SQUARE REGIONAL PARK Reservable sports fields, walking and biking paths and fishing on two ponds. Yes, it’s one mile square. 16801 Euclid St., Fountain Valley, 714.973.6600 Map B1 O’NEILL REGIONAL PARK Expansive 3,300-acre park is a distinctive spot for both day use and camping. Includes the Arroyo Trabuco area, 935 acres of relatively pristine land maintained as a wilderness preserve. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, 949.923.2256 Map east of D6 PETERS CANYON REGIONAL PARK Lush groves of willows and black cottonwoods intertwine with a rambling creek and encase a 50-acre lake. Variety of scenic trails for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, 714.973.6611 Map B5 SANTIAGO OAKS REGIONAL PARK Secluded 1,750acre refuge has trails, native oak trees and historic dam.

Nature Center open on weekends. Garden area is popular for small weekend weddings. 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, 714.973.6620 Map B4

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Wilderness Parks ALISO AND WOOD CANYONS WILDERNESS PARK 3,350-acre park is home to world-class mountain-biking terrain and superb hiking; its canyons have an idyllic feel unmatched in Orange County. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2200 Map H16 CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK 8,000 acres for day use, hiking and camping. Nature center; interpretive programs. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210 Map east of F6 RICHARD AND DONNA O’NEILL LAND CONSERVANCY 1,200-acre reserve; public access during special events. Call for schedule. Rancho Mission Viejo, 28672 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.9778 Map east of F6 LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK Sycamoreshaded canyons and high ridges offering spectacular ocean views and hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Nature center serves as a gateway to 7,000-acre natural habitat. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.923.2235 Map G15 LIMESTONE CANYON AND WHITING RANCH WILDERNESS PARK Docent-led hikes, bike rides and equestrian tours of 5,000 acres of forested canyons, rock formations, rolling hills, streams and trails. Natural history interpretive center. Portola Parkway and Market Place, Foothill Ranch, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6 MODJESKA CANYON NATURE PRESERVE At base of Santa Ana Mountains, bordered by Cleveland National Forest on three sides. Accessible only by rangerled tours with advance reservations. Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6 RILEY WILDERNESS PARK Oak groves, grasslands and deer. Native plant garden attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. 30952 Oso Parkway, Coto de Caza, 949.923.2265 Map east of E6

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UPPER NEWPORT BAY NATURE PRESERVE At Newport Back Bay with vistas of the coastal wetlands.

One of the finest birding sites in North America. Interpretive center is open Tu-Su, 10 am-4 pm. 2301 University Drive (corner of University Drive and Irvine Avenue), Newport Beach, 949.923.2290 Map K13

Historical Parks ARDEN: HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Home of renowned 19th-century actress Madame Helena Modjeska. National historic landmark named for the Forest of Arden in Shakespeare’s As You Like It. By appointment through Heritage Hill Historical Park. 29042 Modjeska Canyon Road, Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2230 Map east of D6 GEORGE KEY RANCH HISTORIC PARK 1898 building, botanical garden and citrus grove present a view of life in the early days of the county’s citrus farming.

National Register of Historic Places. 625 W. Bastanchury Road, Placentia, 714.973.3190 Map A4 HERITAGE HILL HISTORIC PARK Park preserves Orange County’s cultural heritage through four historic buildings representing distinct eras in the area’s development. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, 949.923.2230 Map D6

WHERE TO EAT WHERE TO SHOP WHERE TO GO L O S A N G E L E S • O R A N G E CO U N T Y • S A N D I E G O

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IRVINE RANCH HISTORIC PARK Once the heart of the Irvine agricultural empire, the park preserves the ranch operations headquarters, as well as the site of the original Irvine family home. O.C. Parks headquarters.

13042 Old Myford Road, Irvine, 714.973.6609 Map C5

DISCOVER THE BEAT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

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OLD ORANGE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Site of the local governmental transactions and court proceedings

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NIGHTLIFE that shaped the county’s early history. Restored in 1989; houses historical exhibits, archives, special events and a marriage license office. 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.973.6605 Map H13 PERALTA ADOBE HISTORIC SITE One of the last remaining structures of the Peralta settlement, home to pioneering families in the 1800s. By reservation through George Key Ranch (listing above). 6398 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim, 714.973.3190 Map A4 YORBA CEMETERY Dates to 1858. Final resting place for many O.C. pioneers. Visits by reservation through George Key Ranch historic Ranch, 714.973.3190. 6749 Parkwood Court, Yorba Linda Map A5

NIGHTLIFE A&O Waterfront Anchors & Oceans bar with gastropub fare. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4285 Map M14 AQUA LOUNGE Waved ceiling, 360-degree bar, huge patio, street-food-inspired menu ... and group cocktails!

DJs Th-Su. Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 Map L15 BOWLMOR Hip, state-of-the-art, glow-in-the-dark bowling lounge with sports bar and global cuisine.

The District at Tustin Legacy, 2405 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.2695; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map D4, I10 THE BUNGALOW New. Expansive ocean views, sweeping decks, lush gardens, rustic interiors and seasonal bites by Bear Flag Fish Co. Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0399 Map N9 CALAVINO WINE BAR Rotating fine wines and craft beers, and eclectic New American (spinach wontons, pork-belly burger, beignets) near Angel Stadium. 2410 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.939.7735 Map I11 COSTA MESA 55 TAVERN + BOWL State-ofthe-art bowling alley with sports viewing and a strike beyond bowling-alley dining. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.438.2320 Map K12

Boho-Chic, Casual Sophistication VINCE • JOIE • FREE PEOPLE • HUDSON JEANS • BCBG • WILDFOX • BAILEY44

Newport Coast | Laguna Niguel | Laguna Beach | Irvine | Brea www.shopblueeyedgirl.com

THE DISTRICT LOUNGE Retro spots near Newport Pier and in original 1920s post office in Orange. 121 McFadden St., Newport Beach, 949.673.4470; 223 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.639.7777 Map N13, C4 HEAT ULTRA LOUNGE Vegas-style club near Disneyland. Th-Sa. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.4328 Map I10 HOLIDAY New. Vintage Southern decor, low lighting, classic craft cocktails, and a bar within a bar—the Red Room—in a Westside strip mall. 721 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.278.8728 Map K12 IRVINE IMPROV Top comedy. Two-item minimum; Umami burgers. Irvine Spectrum Center, 572 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5 LA VIDA CANTINA Lively, spacious outdoor palapa bar dotted with fire pits. The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.612.2349 Map K12 LOLA GASPAR Endearingly hip bar and kitchen. Open until 2 am M-Sa, Su until midnight. 211 W. Second St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13 MARINE ROOM TAVERN Laid-back bar; live rock and blues on weekends. Open M-F 3 pm-2 am, Sa-Su 10 am-2 am. 214 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3027 Map H15 MULDOON’S DUBLIN PUB Cozy spot with fun Irishthemed events in the Celtic Bar. 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 Map L15

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TO U R S + T R A N S P O RT THE OBSERVATORY Live rock, alternative, jazz, blues and food. More acts in the Constellation Room. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.957.0600 Map I15 ROOFTOP LOUNGE Enjoy sunset cocktails, panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15 SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND LOUNGE Super-stylish spot opposite Segerstrom Center for the Arts is ideal for pre- or post-theater cocktails. 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 Map J13 STAG BAR + KITCHEN Convivial bar established in 1908 opposite Newport Pier. 121 McFadden Place, Newport Beach, 949.673.4470 Map N13 TIME Club with cool decor, musical acts and bigname deejays moves to impressive new digs. Open Th-Sa. The Triangle, 1875 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7103 Map K12 WILD GOOSE Cocktails, seasonal beers, creative sausages and burgers amid hunt-lodge-saloon decor.

436 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.722.9453 Map N12 WINE LAB Wine/cheese tasting room and store at hip outdoors-themed center. Open Tu-Su. The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.905.9521 Map J13 YOST THEATER Historical landmark now hosts popular musical acts and deejays. Open daily. 307 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 888.862.9573 Map H13 YNK Ever-changing globally inspired drinks (“You Never Know”) at stylish bar. Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.553.0100 Map J14

Tours + Transport

ANAHEIM REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INTERMODAL CENTER (ARTIC) Spectacular architectural achievement. Metrolink and Amtrak trains, OCTA buses, Anaheim Resort Transportation, shuttles, taxis and charter buses converge. 1750 S. Douglass Road, Anaheim, 877.99.ARTIC, articinfo.com

WB Shield: © & TM WBEI.

AMTRAK Train service within Orange County and to destinations throughout California daily. There are stops in Anaheim, Fullerton, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano and Santa Ana. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com

ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) Shuttles cover 19 routes, transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk and Anaheim Convention Center.

Purchase passes online, at Amtrak station and select hotels. 888.364.2787, rideart.org BEVERLY HILLS RENT-A-CAR Luxury and exotic rentals; pickup service. 3939 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.250.4386; 800.258.5353 Map L13 BEST-VIP CHAUFFEURED WORLDWIDE Chauffeured vehicles available with as little as two hours’ notice. 866.323.2378; 714.375.9128 Map C2 CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Catamaran with underwater viewing pod. Spotted recently: blue whale, basking sharks, false killer whale giving birth. Departures daily. $35-$59. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828 Map J16 CATALINA EXPRESS Round trip to Catalina Island. Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Harbor; 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, 800.481.3470 Map K16, northwest of C1 CATALINA FLYER Triple-decker catamaran is fastest boat to Catalina Island: 75 minutes. Call for schedule. $53-$70, $6 children 2 and under.

Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 800.830.7744, catalinainfo.com Map N15

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ELSEWHERE

CALIFORNIA’S NEWEST ART MUSEUM FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC T U E S D AY - S AT U R D AY, 1 1 A . M . T O 5 P. M .

Chapman University invites you to discover the beauty and artistry of 20th Century California scene painters at the newly opened Hilbert Museum of California Art. The museum’s inaugural exhibition, “Narrative Visions,” includes oils and watercolors of everyday life in the Golden State, and features art by Millard Sheets, Lee Blair, Rex Brandt, Emil Kosa Jr., Phil Dike, and many others. Admission is free; come enjoy this artistic treasure in historic Orange, conveniently located across the street from the Orange Metrolink station.

CITY PASS Includes discounted admission to Disney theme parks and admission to others in Los Angeles and San Diego. $269-$306, under 3 free. 888.330.5008, citypass.com DANA WHARF WHALE-WATCHING AND SPORTFISHING Sportfishing, whale-watching expeditions and 82-foot schooner yacht for charters. Corporate parties, private fishing and twilight wine cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 800.979.3370, danawharf.com Map K16 DAVEY’S LOCKER Year-round whale-watching, deep-sea sportfishing, fishing charters and boat rentals at Balboa Pavilion. 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 949.673.1434, daveyslocker.com Map N15 ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR Daily car rentals with some 25 locations throughout Orange County. Pickup service available. 888.484.4683, enterprise.com EXECUCAR Luxury service. Sedan and SUV, flat rates, special group services, frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.410.4444, execucar.com HORNBLOWER CRUISES Luxury party yachts.

F-Sa dinner-dance cruises, Sa-Su Champagne brunch.

Mariner’s Mile Marina, 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.0155, hornblower.com Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT Gateway to O.C., vastly superior to LAX in ambiance and ease of arrival and departure. Art exhibits; dining in Terminal C. Free Wi-Fi. Ticket counters open at 5 am. 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, 949.252.5200, ocair.com LAGUNA BEACH TROLLEY Free service year-round along Coast Highway. F 4-11 pm, Sa 11 am-11 pm and Su 11 am-8 pm. visitlagunabeach.com Map H15 METROLINK Train system connects to San Diego, Los Angeles; stops in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo, Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton and Buena Park. $10 weekend day pass (Sa-Su) for Metrolink rails and SoCal public transportation. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Celebrity haunts and scandal sites aboard state-of-the-art bus. $53-$63.

Starline Tours, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868, tmz.com

Tickets Near Modesto | Emil Kosa Jr. | Oil on canvas, 1940

16 7 N O R T H AT C H I S O N S T R E E T | O R A N G E , C A 9 28 6 6 H I L B E R T M U S E U M .O R G

BARRY’S TICKET SERVICE Hard-to-get and premium tickets for local and national events. 675 Paularino Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.751.9800 Map J12 714 TICKETS Sporting events, shows and concerts, opposite Honda Center. Local delivery. 2620 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.842.5387, 714tickets.com Map I11 TITANIUM TICKETS Specializes in tickets for seats in the first 10 rows. 18685 Main St., 108, Huntington Beach, 714.848.1632 Map D2

Los Angeles County Attractions BOOK TODAY! DanaWharf.com 888.224.0603 F R EE PA R K I N G

CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS Stunning contemporary cathedral opposite Music Center. M-F 6:30 am-6 pm; Sa 9 am-6 pm; Su 7 am-6 pm.

555 W. Temple St., downtown L.A., 213.680.5200 DOLBY THEATRE Home of the Academy Awards.

Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. $10-$15, under 3 free. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 EL PUEBLO DE LOS ANGELES L.A.’s birthplace.

Twenty-seven buildings include 1818 Avila Adobe, L.A.’s

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ELSEWHERE oldest. Festive open-air marketplace Olvera Street. 130 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction overlooking Hollywood. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu-F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm. Free; donations accepted. 2800 E. Observatory Road, L.A., 213.473.0800 SAN FERNANDO MISSION 1797 mission with museum, archives and gardens. Daily 9 am-4:30 pm. $3-$4, under 7 free. 15151 San Fernando Mission Blvd., Mission Hills, 818.361.0186 Map north of A1

STUDIO TOURS SONY PICTURES STUDIOS Two-hour walking tour of working film studio includes sets of movies and TV shows. Reservation, photo ID required. M-F 9:30 am-2:30 pm. $33; under 12 not admitted. Parking free. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687 Map L11

Easy come, easier go.

We’re conveniently located right around the corner from your hotel. To make it even easier, we’ll pick you up.

To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or visit enterprise.com/hotelguests2.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD New: Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Rides at movie-based theme park include Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem; tram tour takes in King Kong 360 3-D. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map north of A1 WARNER BROS. STUDIOS Two-hour tour of working movie and TV studio: backlots, soundstages, costume department, memorabilia museum, observation of filming when possible. VIP tours available. photo ID required. M-F 8:15 am-4:30 pm. $52, under 8 not admitted.

3400 Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8087

MUSEUMS AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER Merger of Southwest Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of the American West and the Women of the West Museum.

Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $4-$10, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000

Pick-up subject to geographic and other restrictions. ©2015 Enterprise Rent-A-Car F07585 07.15

THE BROAD Spectacular new museum of contemporary art. Separate free timed tickets required for Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room. Tu-W 11 am-5 pm; Th-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-6 pm. Free.

Advance online reservations encouraged. 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 212.232.6200 Map H16 GETTY CENTER Stunning hilltop structure features contemporary gardens, unparalleled collection of art and photography. Tu-Su 10 am-5:30 pm, Sa until 9 pm. Call for hours. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 5 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, 310.330.7300 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART Diverse premier collections. M-Tu and Th 11 am-5 pm, F until 8 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm. Closed W $10-$15, under 18 free. LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd.; LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 323.857.6000 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects from dinosaur fossils to fish. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 2 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., downtown, 213.763.3466 PAGE MUSEUM AT THE LA BREA TAR PITS Ice Age L.A. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$11, under 5 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.PAGE

where?

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The Webster luxe boutique, new at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. 714.754.1366

Beach towels at Serena & Lily, new at Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach. 949.287.5764

Soarin’ Around the World at Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim. p. 52

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Hole No. 10 at Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine. p. 54

Tacos at Lola Gaspar in Santa Ana. p. 57

Dramatic Table Rock Beach in Laguna Beach. 949.497.3311

The album-cover art at Left of the Dial Records in Santa Ana. 657.900.2275

New Baker & Olive gourmet pantry boutique at Corona del Mar Plaza. p. 53

The piña colada at the Irvine Marriott’s YNK bar. p. 58

Italian-leather shoes at new Rodd & Gunn at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. 949.706.2677

Bird-watching at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve in Huntington Beach. 714.846.1114

Hiking in Peters Canyon Regional Park in Orange. p. 55

The wire charm bangles at Alex and Ani, new at Irvine Spectrum Center. 949.760.5411

Oyster Bar SKC, new at the ARTIC transportation hub in Anaheim. 714.602.7994

The Red Room bar-withina-bar at new Holiday in Costa Mesa. p. 57

Petals and Pop—flowers and Champagne—at Pacific City’s Lot 579 in Huntington Beach. p. 54

11th Moon boutique in Laguna Beach. 949.715.3254

Sandwiches at The Butchery, new in Newport Coast. 949.715.0899

Kitchen Collection at the Outlets at San Clemente.

949.535.2323 The Italian Wolf cocktail at new El Mercado Modern Cuisine in Santa Ana. p. 40

where in the world

Hats and hammocks at new Poler Outdoor Stuff in Laguna Beach. 949.715.9918

Poke burritos at new Pokéworks at Culver Plaza in Irvine. 949.629.3875

Floating Meditation in silk hammocks at Miravel Spa in Dana Point. 949.234.3900

Waffle bites at The Waffle Affair in Newport Beach. p. 16

The bone marrow mac ’n’ cheese at new Recess Room in Fountain Valley. p. 34

The gold coins at Tangible Investments in Newport Beach.

949.715.5333

WHERE is an inter­national network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,

Farmhouse-style wild and sour ales at new Bruery Terreux in Anaheim. 714.996.6258 Spinach wontons at Calavino Wine Bar in Anaheim. p. 57 RARE by Goodwill at Center Street Promenade in Anaheim. 714.786.6642 Toffees by B.toffee at Roger’s Gardens in Newport Beach. 949.640.5800

New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg

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COASTAL SHOPPING & DINING OVER

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RESTAURANTS

Enjoy coastal views from Fashion Island in Newport Beach with over 150 world-class stores, acclaimed dining and complimentary personal shopping assistance available. AND...Irvine Spectrum Center, in the heart of Orange County, where visitors discover Southern California’s ultimate outdoor shopping, dining, lifestyle and entertainment center.

IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER S hopIrvineSp ectr u m Ce nte r.com

FA S H I O N I S L A N D ShopFa shionIsla nd.com

NOR D S T R OM

NE I M A N MARCUS

TAR GE T

B LO O MINGDALE’S

ANT H R OPOLO G I E A PP LE

NO R D S TRO M A PPL E

F OR EV E R 21

A NT HRO PO LOGIE

H&M

B C BG MA X AZRIA

H U R LEY/ NI K E S B

E LI E TAHARI

L’ OC C I TANE

LO U I S VUI TTON

LU LUL EM ON

LU LU LEM O N

M AX S T UD I O

NI K E W O MEN

QU I K S I LV ER TOMM Y B A H A MA C AP ITAL D I M S UM SE AF O OD J AV I E R’S P.F. C H ANG’S EDWAR D S C I NE MA IMPROV COMEDY CLUB AND MO R E .. .

R O LE X T R I NA TURK U R B AN DECAY V I C TO R I A’S SECRET V I NC E R E D O MEXI CA N CUISINE BY RICK BAYLESS S U S HI RO KU A ND MO RE ... ©2016 The Irvine Company LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Fashion Island and Irvine Spectrum Center are registered trademarks of Irvine Company.

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