WHERE Orange County Magazine Winter 2016

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WINTER 2016 WHEREOC.COM

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+ JANET JACKSON IN ANAHEIM VITRA EYEWEAR IN COSTA MESA THE RITZ PRIME SEAFOOD LES BALLETS DE MONTECARLO

EXTRAORDINARY STEAKS A CUT ABOVE ... AND UNFORGETTABLE

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ANAHEIM’S MOST DELICIOUS DESTINATION

Just Steps from the Disneyland ® Resort and Anaheim Convention Center Anaheim GardenWalk An amazing collection of nationally acclaimed restaurants, exciting night life, shopping, an upscale bowling lounge and live entertainment venues.

Bowlmor Lanes Billy Beez McCormick & Schmick’s Grille The Cheesecake Factory Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Roy’s Restaurant McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon Fire + Ice Grill + Bar California Pizza Kitchen P.F. Chang’s Johnny Rockets Heat Ultra Lounge

COMING SOON: House of Blues Anaheim Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill Grasslands Churrasco Market Mojito Latin Cuisine & Bar Taverna Asian Food Hall Rumba Room Live

D I N I N G . E N T E R TA I N M E N T. S H O P P I N G .

Facebook.com/TheGardenWalk

400 West Disney Way, Anaheim

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where orange county

winter 2016

CONTENTS

departments

the guide

4 Editor’s Note

32 DINING Restaurants by cuisine

Bitter better.

6 Hot Dates

52 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports

Janet Jackson at Honda Center in Anaheim

64 30 Things We Love

53 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, cultural venues and exhibitions

where now

55 SHOPPING The county’s major retail destinations

8 Dining The Ritz Prime Seafood in Newport Beach, Vaca in Costa Mesa, and Urth Caffé in Laguna Beach.

57 GOLF The most beautiful and most interesting courses 57 ACTIVE OUTDOORS Fun on the ground, on the water and in the sky.

10 Shopping Vitra Eyewear at South Coast Plaza; the retail lineup at new Pacific City in Huntington Beach.

Winter 2016 WhereOC.COm

Orange County

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+ janet jackson in anaheim vitra eyewear in costa mesa

58 NIGHTLIFE Hottest clubs, lounges, bars and wine bars

12 Noah Blöm, chef/owner at Arc in Costa Mesa

the ritz prime seafood les ballets de montecarlo

Extraordinary StEakS A cut Above...And unforgettAble

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ON THE COVER Coulotte steak at the Blind Pig in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Photo by Anne Watson.

See feature, page 12

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

features 12 Extraordinary Steaks A cut above in more ways than one: wagyu tomahawks and other unforgettable steaks. BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

CITY TOURS Metro Cities The Coast South Coast North County

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The Marketplace

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Segerstrom Center for the Arts

18 Worth a Shot 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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The Triangle

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RALPH PALUMBO

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE

Explore the county north to south and A to Z PAGE 61

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T h e U lT i m aT e S h o p p i n g e x p e r i e n c e

SoUTh coaST plaza

250 BoUTiQUeS, 30 reSTaUranTS anD SegerSTrom cenTer For The arTS apple Store · Bally · Barbara Bui · Bottega Veneta · Burberry · canali · cartier · céline chanel · chopard · coach · Dior · Dolce & gabbana · ermenegildo zegna · Fendi · gucci hermès · intermix · J.crew · Jimmy choo · John Varvatos · lanvin · louis Vuitton · max mara michael Kors · piaget · prada · ralph lauren · roger Vivier · rolex · Salvatore Ferragamo Sephora · Stuart Weitzman · Tiffany & co. · Tod’s · Tory Burch · Vacheron constantin · Valentino anQi house of an · The capital grille · Din Tai Fung · marché moderne · Seasons 52 Saks Fifth avenue · Bloomingdale’s · nordstrom · macy’s partial listing

San Diego FWY (405) at Bristol St., costa mesa, ca

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welcome

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3-Day Park Hopper® Ticket to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park

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Buy at these attractions - Good for 14 days - Skip most ticket lines Connect for current pricing

citypass.com or (888) 330-5008

Prices and programs subject to change.

A note from the editor

BITTER BETTER

I am a bitter guy. Or, should I say, a bitters guy: not begrudging, churlish or peevish, but happy and getting happier all the time, now that mixologists are exploring all bitters on the planet. I inherited a fondness for bitter flavors from my father, who first introduced me to the Italian digestif Fernet-Branca. Forever I felt a minority but, boy, have things changed. As my wife and I enjoyed cocktails—one with creole bitters and Campari, also bitter, the other smoked and house bitters—recently at Arc restaurant in Costa Mesa, two young men entered, walked straight to the bar and ordered shots of Fernet-Branca, which they downed without missing a beat. (Remember the olden days, when people asked for shots of tequila or whiskey?)

The Blind Pig in Rancho Santa Margarita pairs a rum and Campari drink with the steak on our cover, and the Sailor’s Knot I had at the Ritz Prime Seafood, new in Newport Beach, combines mezcal with Campari and lavender bitters. For more about the steaks at Arc and the Blind Pig, see page 12; for more about the Ritz, see p. 8. The bitters tasting bar at the Mixing Glass cocktail supply shop, a few doors from Arc, features dozens of newfangled versions such as Tart Cherry and Saffron, and Japanese Chili and Lime. I’m also filled with happiness, as well as hoppiness, since fine-dining destinations as well as breweries began featuring fabulously bitter IPAs and double-IPAs. American Dream, a burger spot at new Pacific City in Huntington Beach (see p. 10), serves 60 such bitter brews, and nothing becomes a burger better. Which brings to mind Betty Botter, who, the tongue twister goes, bought some butter—but the butter Betty Botter bought was bitter, so Betty bought some better butter to make the bitter butter better, but the bitter butter made the better butter bitter. What Betty Botter failed to realize all along, of course, is that bitter is best. —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

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where magazine

publisher EDITOR

Jeff Levy

Benjamin Epstein

ART DIRECTOR

Carol Wakano

PRODUCTION ARTIST

Diana Gonzalez

contributing designer

Heidi Schwindt

contributing WRITERS

Joseph Elliott, Roger Grody, Zoe Lorenzo, John Weyler contributing photographers

Dale Berman, Dhrumil Desai, Idris Erba, Sarah Hadley, Vladimir Perlovich, Edwin Santiago, Anne Watson, Ian White ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Heather Heintz, Heather Price, Richard Blankley, Kerry Brewer, Julie Hoffman, Jessica Levin Poff, Joanna Stickel Business manager

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Circulation manager Laura Okey PRoduction manager Dawn Kiko Cheng web manager Christina Xenos MARKETING Manager Anna Ciric administration

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Tiffany Reinhold 714.813.6600 honorary president

Ted Levy

where Orange County

3158 Redhill Ave., Suite 140 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Phone: 714.825.1700 Fax: 714.825.1710

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 © 2015 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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live music + farmers market + events + over 20 local eateries info@packingdistrict.com (714) 533-7225 www.packingdistrict.com 440 S. Anaheim Blvd Anaheim, CA

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WHERE CALENDAR WINTER 2016 Search the full calendar at whereoc.com

HOT DATES

Top Stops ART MUSEUMS MAKE FOR HOT DATES, TOO!

A QUR'AN FOR THE WEST Painter Sandow Birk (b. 1962) has developed a specialty: applying the vision and scope of history to issues with contemporary relevance. It took Birk nine years to complete his recent American Qur’an, now at Orange County Museum of Art, in which he transcribes and illustrates every verse of the holy book of Islam in a way that might make it more meaningful to Western audiences. p. 55

JAN. 16 NO SLEEEP! Janet Jackson’s Unbreakable tour, titled for her latest album, also seems unstoppable, and an added second North American leg includes a stop at Honda Center in Anaheim. Jackson— recent BET Awards’ Ultimate Icon honoree, multiple Grammy Award-winner, Oscar and Golden Globe nominee and No. 1 New York Times best-selling author—is one of the most influential and prolific artists in popular-music history, with sales of more than 160 million records worldwide. “No Sleeep” is the sultry lead single from her new Rhythm Nation Records release. p. 52

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GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED

1 BOAT PARADE > DEC. 16-20 More than 100 decorated vessels large and small cruise the harbor for the 107th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Newport Harbor, 949.729.4400, christmasparadeboats.com

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

2 DISNEY ON ICE: FROZEN > DEC. 16-21 The top animated film of all time, featuring the song “Let It Go,” skates to life in a winter wonderland with dazzling special effects. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com 3 ACT 3 > JAN. 6-31 A long-married couple hold secrets from each other; then the secrets collide. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787, lagunaplayhouse.org

4 ANAHEIM DUCKS > JAN. 17 The team faces off against its freeway rival, the Los Angeles Kings. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com 5 THE ILLUSIONISTS > FEB. 2-7 The Illusionists—Witness the Impossible showcases magic and stunts of five performers.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org

SEEING RED Red, with its brilliant hue and broad cultural history, has inspired artists’ imaginations and viewers for millennia.

The color source to rival the best reds of nature was found in the Aztec marketplace of 16thcentury Mexico, where Spanish explorers encountered the American cochineal insect. The Red that Colored the World, at Bowers Museum through Feb. 21, uses 100 objects, including textiles, sculpture, paintings, manuscripts, decorative arts and clothing, to tell the cochineal story.

Below: Napoleon armchair. p. 55

6 RUSSIAN NAT’L ORCHESTRA > FEB. 24 Mikhail Pletnev leads one of the world’s top orchestras and powerhouse pianist Yuja Wang.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org 7 RED > JAN. 22-FEB. 21 Play focuses on the nature of art and artists.

South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555, scr.org

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15-OSC

GORGEOUS VALUES HAVE ARRIVED

Shop big brands at deep blue discounts in a stunning, Spanish-style village overlooking the Pacific.

Orange County’s first and only coastal outlet shopping experience is now open. Welcome to A Beautiful Way to Save.

OutletsAtSanClemente.com I-5 at Avenida Vista Hermosa

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where now orange county

THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, ATTRACTIONS, SHOPPING AND DINING

DINING

Puttin' On the...

The Ritz—helmed for decades by late, venerated chef/restaurateur Hans Prager—was a Newport Beach institution before it closed in 2014. Now the team behind the Grill on the Alley in Beverly Hills and the Daily Grill chain gives the name, slightly modified to The Ritz Prime Seafood, new life in a breathtakingly updated incarnation on the water.

The Ritz Egg seen here, also modified, recalls the Prager era, but it’s the menu’s new dishes that promise a bright future: PEI mussels with vadouvan curry; lobster and squid-ink pasta with uni butter; whole branzino with pickled cauliflower caponata, pine nuts and za’atar; dryaged Prime New York steak with umami butter, fennel pollen and blistered Campari tomatoes; and a monumental slice of coconut cake. The Ritz 55 cocktail is a fabulously boozy winner. p. 45

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Urth Caffé in Laguna Beach

DOWN TO URTH

TOP, VICTOR BOGHOSSIAN PHOTOGRAPHY. OPPOSITE, ANNE WATSON

Having met a Peruvian making organic coffee from heirloom coffee trees about 25 years ago—and knowing that coffee is among the most chemically treated food commodities in the world—Jilla and Shallom Berkman launched the Urth Caffe organic heirloom coffee company in the U.S.—which in turn led to Urth Caffé. Locations now include five cafés in Los Angeles, including one well known for celebrity sightings, and the latest in Laguna Beach, in a landmark that for 50 of its nearly 100 years housed the Cottage restaurant. Menu highlights: chocolate pistachio croissants, pecan sticky buns, bread-pudding breakfast, Poach di Parma eggs, Panini el Diablo, pot-roast sandwich, Caravan kale salad, and nori plum rice wrap. Plus cakes, pies, vegan desserts, and tea and boba drinks. And heirloom coffee, of course. p. 38

Holy Vaca!

Way back when— actually a few years ago, eons in dining time— Amar Santana was chef at Charlie Palmer at Bloomingdale’s South Coast Plaza, then left to open Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach.

Now Charlie Palmer is gone, replaced by burger haven Holsteins Shakes and Buns; Broadway is a

runaway favorite; Santana is a contender on this season's Top Chef; and Santana and partner Ahmed Labbate are back in Costa Mesa with a second restaurant, Vaca, serving Spanish tapas just down the street from South Coast Plaza. On the Vaca menu: paellas, bocadillos, housemade charcuterie, beef as

diverse as Argentine and Japanese Kobe— vaca means cow in Spanish—and several house sangrias.

Broadway is known for its cocktails, and there’s no reason to think the team won’t serve topnotch concoctions at Vaca, too, alebit with a Latin accent. A Seville Sling, perhaps? p. 44

Paella at new Vaca in Costa Mesa

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WHERE NOW / orange

county

SHOPPING

An Eye for Inventiveness As part of its million-dollar build-out at South Coast Plaza, new Vitra Eyewear does something it says no other eyewear store has done: puts its prescriptionlens lab in the front window so passers-by can see every step of the process of creating lenses. The purveyor of extraordinary and unusual frames debuts opposite the Apple store, touting “the world’s most unique eyewear collection” and differentiating itself with depth of choice: Diverse collections encompass a who’s-who and who’s-new list of toptier brands, among them Sospiri, Linda Farrow, Theo, Ic! Berlin, SALT, Thierry Lasry, Dita, Céline, Chrome Hearts and Shamballa. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.2186

Frames by Thierry Lasry at new Vitra Eyewear

PACIFIC VIEW

Irene's Story at Pacific City

The new Pacific City shopping, dining and entertainment destination in Huntington Beach is on 11 ocean-view acres. Retail tenants include H&M, bohemian clothing store Irene’s Story, Australian swimwear line Seafolly, Molly Brown’s Swimwear,

London-inspired West of Camden boutique, Tankfarm & Co. for classic menswear, Wearhouse Boutique for men and women, Smocking Birds for children, Sephora and Ocean Blue Art + Design gallery. All that shopping

work up an appetite?

Consider American Dream for burgers and IPAs, Brent Bolthouse’s Bungalow lounge, Burnt Crumbs sandwich shop, Old Crow Smokehouse and fast-casual-comfort cafeteria Lemonade. gopacificcity.com

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E traordinary

Steaks

There are wonderful steaks, and then there are steaks on another plane entirely, ones that linger in your memory long after the last glorious bite.

By BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

P

ARC There’s wood stacked outside the South Coast Collection’s best steak and was so named at the recent Golden Foodie Awards. acclaimed American roast house, and, inside, weathered wood adds The menu stipulates “maximum split two guests,” but I’d recomto the vintage-apothecary ambiance. But where the wood counts mend that as the minimum split as well. Peerless in terms of sheer most is on the open kitchen’s grill (orange wood) and in the brick size and bold flavor profile, it’s a rib-eye chop with a 20-inch bone hearth (almond wood). The menu lists one item simply as “Steak” that stirs your inner Fred Flintstone before you ever take a bite. The ($22)—it's a Prime sirloin flap, in France a bavette—but at the botmenu breaks down the weight of its components: 36 to 40 ounces tom of the page are three more special cuts: an eye of round for two of gloriously flavorful meat, making it the county’s largest steak, ($125), a tomahawk rib-eye for two or three ($175) and the 8 ounces of sumptuous fat and 14 ounces of bone—58 Butcher's Love, Butcher’s Love for four ($275). That last-named is a cap of ounces in all, served with white-cheddar scalloped potacap of the rib-eye the rib-eye—the tastiest cut on the cow, in my opinion— toes and sauce bordelaise. What to drink? Choose from an for four, at Arc minimum 32 ounces (2 pounds), dazzlingly presented. The restaurant at South also monumental wine list of more than 14,000 labels. The Coast Collection in cap is cooked directly in the coals; rolled slices arrive wonRanch gets most of its produce from Edwards’ farm in the Costa Mesa drously tender, richly flavorful and beautifully crusted with foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains; I first had the rib-eye garlic compound butter, herbs and spices. Sharing the yard-long platfollowing a tour of the property. Organically grown produce includes ter are four types of mushroom—cauliflower, abalone, shiitake and 600 heirloom-tomato vines, about 80 varieties, as well as heirloom lobster; crispy Yukon gold potaoes roasted in duck fat; a fried duck egg cucumbers, peppers, squash, beets, corn, kale, melons and herbs. At over a huge roasted heirloom tomato; grilled asparagus; and a splash the restaurant, you could start with the carpaccio of American-raised of crème fraîche and romesco sauce. Special cocktails should precede Kobe-style beef, with white Alba Clamshell mushrooms, wild arugula, special steaks, and Koire Rogers’ are among the county’s very best. black truffle and Pecorino Romano. I’d say don’t miss Rossi’s salad of Start with either of two using rye whiskey and amaro: new fave Creole heirloom beets or tomatoes or seasonally inspired soup. p. 34 Love Call, with Campari, nocino walnut liqueur and creole bitters, or popular Cigarettes & Coffee, with smoked bitters. Owners Noah and SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Teemu Selänne—aka the FinnMarin Howarth Blöm, Arc’s chef and managing partner, respectively, ish Flash, the Anaheim Ducks' former assistant captain and one of the now add two adjacent concepts: Restaurant Marin, a modern-day highest scoring players in National Hockey League history—opened diner, and the Guild, inspired by Winston Churchill’s den and offering Selanne in 2014, the year he retired from hockey after 21 seasons. It’s butler service until 2 am. James, my good man, would you be so kind a winner, too. He turned a historic Laguna Beach cottage into three as to bring us that Butcher’s Love from next door? p. 32 distinct dining experiences: a fine-dining room upstairs, a tavern— ideal for watching sports—on the ground floor and a gorgeous tented patio steps from Coast Highway. The signature menu item is the Lord THE RANCH Andrew Edwards’ spot, a sophisticated and Stanley cut for two ($110), but good luck finding any information gorgeously designed outpost on the ground floor of his office buildabout that cut. “It’s a wagyu bone-in rib-eye,” Selänne explained ing in industrial Anaheim, offers regional dishes with wine-country to me soon after the restaurant opened, “also called a tomahawk sensibilities amid sleek wood, flagstone and leather, and it comes cut. Because the cut that we use is so big, I thought it would be fun with its own adjacent glittering country-music saloon. Executive to name it after the Stanley Cup—adding a touch of hockey to the chef Michael Rossi’s fare is superb across the board, but his Cowboy menu.” An herb-and-marrow butter enhances the char of the steak, Ribeye ($115) gets the most attention. It’s often cited as the county’s

MARIN HOWARTH

icture a steak knife gently pressing down and slicing into the yielding char, through the delectable little layer of fat and into the rosyhued meat.… Picture that and you’re no doubt already salivating, because such a sight stirs something primordial in our psyches and deep in our DNA. No wonder a steak always feels like a special occasion! Some steaks, however, transcend the occasion.

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32 ounces from Australia’s Darling Downs; it’s fabulously fatty, finished with a bordelaise sauce and served with trumpet mushrooms and cippolini onions. The menu also offers two American wagyu steaks, an 8-ounce flat iron ($38) and a 12-ounce skirt steak ($48), and occasionally a 10-ounce A5 Kuroge (Japanese Black) wagyu rib-eye (market price). Preludes from chef Joshua Severson: panroasted sushi-grade Pacific diver scallops with pickled shimeiji mushroom, cauliflower puree and black garlic, or the Snake River Farms wagyu beef tartare with fingerling chips, wild rocket and quail egg. Postlude: apple-cinnamon monkey bread, with vanilla-cookie tuile, caramel gastrique and chai ice cream. p. 46

rib-eye japonais ($41), cooked over bincho oak charcoal, tender and fatty in a more familiar way, and with all the rib-eye flavor an American could want—plus a sauce loaded with garlic slices.

Sushi Roku itself is spectacular. I love the lit sculpture of colorful cubes, like a 3-D Mondrian with the improvisatory feel of a jazz riff, above the bar, and the oversized bonsai trees—not an oxymoron, it turns out—that line the dining room. The Zen S’mores dessert is spectacular, too. p. 42

SOCIAL Social opened in an unlikely strip mall, mere steps from the Triangle in Costa Mesa, that it shares with a pool hall, then handily transcended that location to be named the county’s best new restaurant, and best for California cuisine, at the Golden Foodies. Like virtually every item on the seasonal menu and cocktail list, each steak that chef Jeffrey Boultt has offered at the yearling spot has been distinctive, a recent example being wagyu tri-tip with shrimp and tasso maque choux, crispy shallot, smoked tomato, jalapeño and radish. Now he lifts his vision again, offering a 14-ounce A-5 Japanese wagyu tenderloin for two, with seared Hudson Valley foie gras, foie-gras ganache, charred chicory leaves and black truffle demi-glace ($135), as well as a 28-ounce Prime cowboy rib-eye for two with blue-cheese compound butter and chanterelle mushrooms ($75). Lead bartender Mike West has created a cocktail especially to go before or with the wagyu tenderloin: Mad Men Style, a 1950s-style concoction using Michter’s limited-edition Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon plus Armagnac, Benedictine, Port, rye whiskey and salted cinnamon aromatic; he chills the spirits and torches the cinnamon. And what would go better with a cowboy steak than a Gunslinger? Always on the list, the bold concoction features Rittenhouse Rye whiskey, bourbon, black tea, Chinese bitters and orange bitters and is smokeinfused with cherry bark upon serving. Lift ’em high, pardner. p. 34 SUSHI ROKU Why all the fuss about Japanese wagyu? Because it is flecked throughout with a fat of a richness and velvety tenderness that other beef can only dream of. In fact, it is the fat that seemingly permeates every square micromillimeter of the meat, and not the blood, that gives wagyu its juiciness. Japanese wagyu beef has been likened to the dessert of beef. No matter how much you love it, it is not something most people would want 30 ounces of. More like 14. Or 4, the size of the serving at new Sushi Roku in Fashion Island; 2 ounces each is not too little if you’re sharing. Japanese wagyu is strictly graded; at the high end is beef deemed A5, and that’s the grade used for Sushi Roku’s toban-yaki ($89). The first time I had the dish—simply presented, still cooking on its ceramic dish, part of an elaborate omakase tasting—it was nothing less than a sizzling slice of heaven on earth. Consider a glass of Kubota Hekiju sake to go with it. Despite the emphasis on sushi in the restaurant’s name, another standout dish is the

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BLK EARTH SEA SPIRIT The finest wagyu in the world comes from Kobe. Kobe is a region in Japan, like Champagne in France. If you see the word Kobe on a menu, unless it refers to Kobe, Japan, there should be other words to qualify it, such as those you see on the menu at new BLK in Huntington Beach. A sibling to lauded BLK Burgrz in Ladera Ranch, BLK offers an array of Akaushi Kobe-style steaks—”style” being the operative word— from Heart Brand in Harwood, Texas. (Akaushi refers to Japanese Brown, one of four breeds of wagyu along with Black, Polled and Shorthorn.) Cuts include filet mignon, rib-eye, porterhouse and flat iron; burgers use the same source, and there’s even a Kobe-style meatloaf. But BLK also offers a true 4-ounce Japanese Kobe New York steak ($65). How could we resist doing a side-by-side with the Kobe-style New York from Texas ($47)? The takeaway from that tasting: They are very, very different. For starters: Since wagyu fat literally melts in your mouth, because of its low melting point, the true Kobe is both unctuous and ephemeral. Because the Texas wagyu is more aggressively flavorful, more obviously delicious, it eclipses the subtle Japanese Kobe when tasted one after the other.

Far and away the best idea is to order the Kobe first, the Texan second, and share both, getting the best of both worlds. The stylish industrial-chic surroundings, at once whimsical and sophisticated, enhance whatever you order at BLK; the venue also boasts O.C.’s largest ocean-view patio. p. 45

Tomahawks: Lord Stanley Cut, wagyu bone-in rib-eye for two at Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach, and, opposite, Cowboy Ribeye at the Ranch in Anaheim.

THE BLIND PIG Steaks don’t often get the beauty treatment accorded seafood and desserts, but, occasionally, one proves as memorable for its presentation as for its tastiness. Though seemingly modest in the context of behemoth chops and rarefied A5 wagyu, the coulotte steak, aka sirloin cap, offered at this lakeside destination in Rancho Santa Margarita, at the county’s southern end, is a perfect example. I’ve seen it presented sliced (see cover) and unsliced, and it’s pretty both ways. It’s also a treat either way, just one element in a riot of brilliant color and explosive flavor provided by spring-pea puree, watermelon radish—which makes any presentation pop—asparagus, dried prosciutto and Espelette pepper ($39).

Kudos to young executive chef Karl Pfleider. (Pfleider also heads up the Trough sandwich shop, new on Balboa Peninsula.) To go with the steak, bar manager/general manager Jeff Baitx suggests the Pennyroyal Negroni, a Caribbean take on the classic Campari cocktail using two types of rum and lime oils; its vibrant red color and intense taste add to the all-around exuberance of what’s on the plate. p. 32

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KITCHEN

COLLABORATIONS In some of the county’s best kitchens, more than one head is crowned by a toque.

By ROGER GRODY

Award-winning cuisine is generally perceived as an individual achievement, with professional kitchens large enough only for a single ego. In truth, however, the best cooking is always a highly collaborative endeavor, and in some cases two or more individuals contribute equally to the execution of a great menu. Several of Orange County’s most acclaimed kitchens, in fact, are anything but autocratic.

T

hough there are still just a handful of female executive chefs in Orange County, Zov Karamardian began breaking glass ceilings in the kitchen 30 years ago.

Since then, she has received national attention for her burgeoning family of restaurants, beginning with Tustin’s Zov’s Bakery & Café in 1987, followed by the adjoining Zov’s Bistro and subsequent restaurants in Irvine, Newport Coast and Anaheim.

With several restaurants and a couple of quick-serve concepts at John Wayne Airport, Karamardian recently brought in Louie Jocson to serve as director of culinary operations to assist with her empire. Jocson, a veteran chef and restaurateur, is actually a Zov’s alum who began his career at the Tustin restaurant. Delighted to be reunited with his boss after 25 years, he recalls: “I was 15 when I first started washing dishes and watching everything that happened in the kitchen.” Hitting on one of Karamardian’s core values, he adds, “One thing I clearly remember was that everything was, and still is, made fresh daily and by hand.”

“When we work together to update or create a recipe, it’s always based on mutual respect,” Jocson says. “I strive to embrace the legacy and heritage of her concept.

Zov and I have similar culinary philosophies.

Though we come from significantly different upbringings, we’re able to meld them in the kitchen.”

Karamardian agrees that the two chefs have a great working relationship and says,

“We’re both creative in different ways and love to bounce ideas off each other, whether it’s cooking techniques, new ingredients or new recipes. I travel the world ... and will often suggest a new spice I tried and loved.

We’ll talk and exchange ideas, then Louie will work out the details and run with it to create a new dish that works.”

Although it is highly unusual for a longtime restaurateur with her name on the door, Karamardian appears to have little ego when it comes to menu development. “No dish is off-limits or untouchable,” she says.

“If the dish gets better, I’m all for it!”

Karamardian, who always featured elements of her Armenian heritage on her menus, was well ahead of her time in anticipating culinary trends. Today, Middle Eastern themes are an emerging trend in America. At Zov’s Bistro, dishes such as shrimpand-soujouk fritters and falafel-crusted sand dabs—not to mention cross-cultural concepts like tahini lamb tacos—continue to

DOUBLE-TOQUES Anaheim White House Restaurant 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.1381 • Antonello Ristorante 3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.751.7153 • Zov’s Bistro and Zov’s Bakery & Café 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin, 714.838.8855; Zov’s Anaheim 1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.280.9687 • Zov’s Newport Coast, 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.9687

capture the dining public’s imagination.

Zov’s Bistro remains a beautifully appointed restaurant with modern sensibilities and a casual brand of elegance. In the kitchen, Karamardian and Jocson create innovative applications for ancient culinary concepts.

The restaurant continues to be recognized nationally; the two colleagues just returned from cooking at the James Beard House in New York, a tremendous honor for any chef.

The Anaheim White House Restaurant has been one of Orange County’s premier dining destinations for 35 years, with current owner Bruno Serato at the helm for nearly 30 of those. Ensconced in a palatial old home, the restaurant possesses the kind of oldfashioned elegance that is very difficult to find in Orange County today. A favorite for special celebrations, it has numerous private rooms named after U.S. presidents—a bipartisan selection, of course.

Italian-born Serato, generous of heart and never forgetting his own early days in America, took young Eddie Meza under his wing when Meza arrived from Mexico with his family in 1988. Meza started as an entry-level pastry-chef position in the White House kitchen, but his passion for cooking, his work ethic and his desire to learn propelled him through the ranks.

Over the years, Meza has studied with Michelin three-star chefs and Culinary Institute of America instructors to refine his skills, and in 2000, Serato named him executive chef.

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gino Buonanoce

zov K ar amardian

b r u n o s e r at o

louie jocson

eddie meza

sal Ferrara

The two men have developed a strong bond. “He’s like family,” Serato says. “We’ve worked together for 28 years as brothers.”

Meza shares that view of their relationship but notes some distinctions. “Armani chef coats are more his style. I’ll leave the fashion to him and keep mine to my plates,” Meza says with a smile.

Despite the total trust his executive chef has earned, owner Serato says some culinary decisions remain beyond Meza’s authority. “The chocolate mashed potatoes can never be removed or altered,” Serato says. “I invented them on a casual day experimenting in the kitchen, and they have become an Anaheim White House favorite!”

Antonello Ristorante is among the county’s most venerable and honored Italian restau-

rants. In addition to its elegant dining rooms that have become local favorites, the restaurant has introduced Castellani Enoteca, a wine bar offering a more casual menu of small plates. Instead of committing to a whole branzino or filet mignon with a Barolo reduction and black truffles, the Enoteca menu offers cheese-stuffed focaccia, fried calamari and lamb-chop “lollipops.”

Husband-and-wife owners Antonio and Fiorella Cagnolo hail from Piedmont and Venice, respectively; as for the co-chefs, Gino Buonanoce is from Bari on the Adriatic coast and Salvatore Ferrara’s family is from Sicily—so much of Italy is represented.

One wonders if a single kitchen is too small for four skilled culinarians, each with his or her own ego and regional pride, but Antonio Cagnolo dismisses that notion.

“The term ‘chef executivo’ doesn’t exist in Italian,” he points out. “We all work together and collaborate.” He describes a constant process of brainstorming and recipe-testing.

“We are often texting each other ideas to try out next,” he says.

“The fact that we’re from different regions of Italy brings a unique perspective to our cuisine,” Antonio says. “We all complement each other. Everything we learned from our different upbringings is brought into the restaurant’s kitchen, family traditions are kept alive.” All of them learned to cook from their fathers, mothers and grandparents.

Buonanoce, by the way, is no newcomer to Antonello. “Gino started working with me 37 years ago,” Antonio says. Although he has left a few times, he has always found his way back.”

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WORTH A SHOT 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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W

SUR F CITY N IGHTS DOWN TOWN

W W W. S U R F C I T Y U S A . C O M

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LAIDBA CK LU XU RY IN H UN TINGTON BE A CH Mixed with the salty sea breeze, an air of laidback luxury flows through Huntington Beach, from its popular Downtown Main Street and beloved neighborhood gems, to its new restaurant and retail communal hub, Pacific City.

Just a short walk south of the pier lands visitors in a coastal cool, carefully curated world of outdoor hang-out spaces, upscale dining, modern boutique shops, and LOT 579, a California culinary experience and artisan marketplace. The best part: It all awaits opposite 10 miles of uninterrupted coastline.

“In our opinion, Pacific City has the best location of any shopping, dining and entertainment destination in the world—Huntington Beach,” says Stenn Parton, Director of Leasing for DJM Capital Partners, the developers of Pacific City.

Retreat to your home away from home at a serene oceanfront suite at the Shorebreak Hotel, Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, or brand new Paséa Hotel & Spa. Soak in the pool, move to live music, and pick your spa package.

Whether you’re zipped up in a wetsuit or wrapped in a light jacket, the choices for shopping, food, and fun are endless—just like our summer.

P E TA LS & P OP

T HE BU N G A LOW | TA N KFAR M WAYS & MEA N S OYST ER HOUS E BEAR F LA G F I SH CO . | P O P B AR BUR N T CRU MBS | SA I N T M AR C HA N S H O MEMA D E I CE C R E AM PIE-N OT | W EST OF CAM DE N SEA FOLLY | SA AVY N AT UR AL S PETA LS & P OP | LEMO NADE H E I R LO O M S & H A R D WA R E COM ING S O O N TO PAC I F I C C I TY

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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. Charlotte Olympia, Céline and Vitra Eyewear are new.

Excellent dining options include Marché Moderne and Din Tai Fung.

It’s an easy walk to the “arts campus,” the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, South Coast Repertory and, in the not-too-distant 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 within the venues, Founders Hall and Samueli Theater, respectively.

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 Pirch. Of note to foodies is Surfas Culinary District, Arc restaurant and the farmers market on Saturdays. The hip OC Mix features 30 vendors including Stoned Jewelry boutique, the Mixing Glass for cocktail ware 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; recent additions include Heirlooms and Hardware and the Celect. Opposite is the

Camp, set amid woods, aluminum and piped-in sounds of crickets. Dining options include Old Vine Café, Taco Asylum for unusual tacos and Umami Burger.

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. The dining scene may be the county’s most exciting, thanks to Little Sparrow, Playground and North Left. Find a dozen innovative fast-casual dining concepts at 4th Street Market. The bar scene—we favor Lola Gaspar—is burgeoning, too. A centerpiece of the East End along historic Fourth Street is the Yost Theater, now a 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 can also view pre-Columbian artifacts, Pacific Island art and a permanent exhibit of local history.

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. Westfield MainPlace houses Macy’s, Nordstrom and 200 shops; a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball court and open-air swimming pool is new; Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ opens presently. Intimate Santa Ana Zoo is in Prentice Park; highlights include a primate exhibit and children’s zoo.

Irvine

Its Giant Wheel can be seen for miles along the 5, 405 and 133 freeways. But it’s the Irvine Spectrum 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.

Irvine Barclay Theatre, at UC Irvine—now marking its 50th anniversary—presents an impressive roster of music, dance and dramatic events; there’s not a bad seat in the house. 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.

The one developed corner of the Orange County Great Park offers a farmers market, an arts complex and a carousel; you can ride 400 feet up in the iconic tethered orange balloon. The restored blacksmith shop and general store of Old Town Irvine (Sand Canyon Avenue and Burt Road, 949.660.9112) now house a hotel and restaurants.

Irvine offers a relatively problem-free world carved from the Irvine Co.’s land holdings. The vibe extends to John Wayne Airport, whose pleasant ambience and ease of departure and arrival make it vastly superior to LAX.

Tustin

Forbes magazine recently listed Tustin in its Top 25 places “to live well.” The city has preserved many of its 1870s buildings along Main Street and El Camino Real.

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. Taps Fish House & Brewery 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.

/ no loafer

➺ “Resistance is futile” at new Blackmarket Bakery on Broadway in Santa Ana, just as it has

been since 2012 at chef Rachel Klemek’s irresistible spot at the Camp in Costa Mesa. But there are differences. At her larger outpost in the historic Santora Building, Klemek expands her offerings of made-from-scratch-daily pastries and artisanal breads to include craft beers and hard ciders, savory “bar bites,” brunch items, sandwiches including “eggy-wiches,” salads, and desserts such as her Black Widow Tart. Nevertheless, as the name suggests, Blackmarket remains a bakery at heart. 211 N. Broadway, 714.571.0801, blackmarketbakery.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.

Bonobos Guideshop for men and Sushi Roku restaurant are new. 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 boasts the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, along Coast Highway, is lined with dining destinations—notably The Winery restaurant and wine bar and Pizzeria Mozza—as well as 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.

The action never stops around Newport Pier, off Newport Boulevard on McFadden Square. The Dory Fishing Fleet leaves soon after the bars close in the wee hours of the morn; you can visit the open-air fish market after the sun comes up. The fleet, begun in 1889, is the last beach-side fishing cooperative of its kind in the United States.

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 are the Balboa Pavilion and a Fun Zone, marking 75 years, whose few remaining rides include a Ferris wheel. Try a custom-dipped Balboa Bar or frozen banana. 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 gabled, cupolatopped 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 tightknit community featuring charming cottages, shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Marine Avenue is the island’s only nonresidential street.

Corona del Mar

Heading south along Coast Highway takes you past Corona del Mar Plaza, where upscale destinations include Sienna Brown and Savory Spice Shop as well as Sprinkles Ice Cream and new 8telier.

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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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 At Ease for Men and new Atelier 7918 and Babette’s, Bluefin and Mastro’s Ocean Club restaurants.

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 has gotten more sophisticated since 1963, when the Jan and Dean hit Surf City topped charts. Though Huntington Beach retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks, beachtown personality, shops along Main Street, fine-dining options and luxury hotels have resulted in a dramatic transformation.

Main Street is a promenade with lots of surf-wear and beachwear shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. New Pacific City brings acres of retail, including H&M, Seafolly and West of Candem, and restaurants, such as American Dream for burgers

Newport Beach Civic Center.

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

and Old Crow Smokehouse. The Strand, at Pacific Coast Highway and Fifth Street, offers Rip Curl and Bruxie for waffles.

Adjacent to Huntington Beach Pier Plaza are restaurants including Duke’s and Sandy’s HB; 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

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Street, is 350-acre Huntington Central 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. Draws at Tuscanthemed 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.

/ first resort

➺

New Heron Haberdashery was founded by a father and son who share a passion for fine men’s apparel—specifically resort menswear in casual silhouettes, combining traditional East Coast and casual West Coast sensibilities, and crafted in Italy. Sport shirts, in linen or Egyptian cotton, feature a one-piece convertible collar that can be worn open-collar or with a tie. Scottish-cashmere sweaters are available in V-neck, polo and full-zip cardigan styles.

The shop also carries belts, accessories, jeans, pants, footwear, loungewear and swimwear.

2700 E. Coast Hwy., Suite 103, Corona del Mar, 949.791.8623, heronhaberdashery.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, 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 Hobrecht Sports Gallery (350 N. Coast Hwy., 949.945.3283) and Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953).

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 dining options including Tortilla Republic, hockey great Teemu Selänne’s Selanne Steak Tavern, K’ya Bistro Bar at La Casa del Camino and posh Studio at the Montage.

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 five 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 fullsized 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 and new Waterman’s Harbor seafooders.

North of town are luxury hotels featuring superior dining—Stonehill Tavern at the St. Regis, and Raya at the Ritz-Carlton—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 Junipero 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

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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 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 a map of these neighborhoods, see page 63

/ alt fashions ... please

Who are you today? A lightheaded dreamy hippie, or a take-no-prisoners grunge queen? Allow us to politely suggest that Rock Etiquette, a partnership of L.A. fashionindustry veteran David Aragon and Baltic DJ/singer/model/lounge-owner Ella, has got you covered. Alternative and hippie-style clothing at the boutique includes cool dresses, lacy tops and ultra fashionable waistcoats from brands such as Viper Room, Sugar Daddy, One Teaspoon, G-Star and Prince Peter. And menswear, too, thank you very much. 370 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1121

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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, now marking its 60th anniversary with a diamond celebration, is beloved by children of every age. Since Walt Disney opened the main gate in 1955, families have made the pilgrimage, starting on Main Street, U.S.A., and exploring eight lands from Frontierland to Toontown.

Captured in countless vacation photographs, landmarks such as the Matterhorn, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and the Haunted Mansion— all recently enhanced—beckon even as new attractions such as the “Paint the Night” parade, which uses projected mapping technology unprecedented for Disney, debut.

Sister park Disney California Adventure launched Cars Land, adding attractions— notably Radiator Springs Racers—inspired by the Disney-Pixar film Cars. Guests enter along Buena Vista Street, evoking the era when Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles; Carthay Circle Theatre houses an elegant restaurant.

A new World of Color shows wows nightly with choreographed fountains, lights, lasers, music, film and animation that tell the story of Walt Disney. The thrills never end at California Screamin’, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Soarin’ Over California, a simulation of gliding above the Golden State.

There’s no admission at adjacent Downtown Disney, but it takes restraint to

avoid splurging in the lively promenade’s shops, cafés and entertainment venues such as House of Blues, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and ESPN Zone. 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 in an outdoor setting. For indoor entertainment, consider the new Billy Beez jungle-themed arena for kids, bowling at Bowlmor or dancing at Heat Ultra Lounge. Nearby is The Ranch, among the county’s best restaurants, and its adjacent super-fun saloon, which is modeled on the late Crazy Horse.

Boldface names and sports action are the lure at Honda Center, home for the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey team and L.A. KISS football team, host to touring acts such as Janet Jackson.

Nearby is the region’s new transportation hub, the architecturally stunning Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). At Angel Stadium, “the Big A,” major-league baseball rules when the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play; arena rock acts such as U2 invade when the team’s on tour. Anaheim Convention Center now has a grand Grand Plaza.

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—try several! Our favorites include Adya for Cal-Indian, Georgia’s for Southern and Hammer Bar & Tool Shed for cocktails. 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, 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 is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters.

Less hair-raising are the High Sierra Ferris Wheel and kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. The interactive Voyage to the Iron Reef is new.

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

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.

Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry starring Lipizzaner stallions while serfs and wenches serve a four-course feast. A banquet at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure fortifies guests for skirmishes aboard a replicated 18th century Spanish galleon in an indoor lagoon.

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. 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 Thrill It Fun Center and Vans Skatepark.

Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove— formerly known as Crystal Cathedral—is a must-tour for architecture buffs. Philip Johnson’s striking structure has 10,000 silver-tinted windows. Also there are Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope and Richard Meier’s International Center for Positive Thinking.

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.

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➺ Thanks

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

Birch Street Promenade in neighboring Brea offers retailers, dining destinations such as Brunos Trattoria and stand-up comedy.

New Lillie’s Q and Tempo Urban Kitchen restaurants are nearby. Brea Mall is huge.

For bold items, see listings in the where guide.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 61.

/ wine colony

to their personal relationships and in some cases lifelong friendships with winemakers and brewers, Colony Wine Merchant owners Sonya and Mike Kelsen handselect each wine and can share heartfelt stories about how each made it to their shelf.

Sonya’s years working at Napa Valley wineries allow her to curate wines of high quality from small producers at reasonable prices; the Kelsens also offer craft beers and artisan cheeses. The name of the yearling spot refers to Anaheim’s beginnings in the 1800s as a wine-growing colony. 280 S. Lemon St., Anaheim, 657.208.1860, colonywinemerchant.com

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TO MEMORIES LAST A L IFETIME...

Offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Las Brisas is proud to serve the freshest seafood, exclusive offerings of wine & margaritas and authentic cuisine of the Mexican Riviera.

361 Cliff Drive • Laguna Beach • 949.497.5434 • lasbrisaslagunabeach.com

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where

the guide WINTER 2016

SPORTS

Can the Ducks Take Wing?

COURTESY ANAHEIM DUCKS

The Anaheim Ducks finished last season one win short of a place in the Stanley Cup finals, losing to the Chicago Blackhawks, who would go on to win the cup.

The scenario was similar the year before, when the Honda Center-based team lost to their freeway rival the Los Angeles Kings. Here’s hoping the high fliers, led by captain Ryan Getzlaf, right, fly just the eensiest tad higher this year! p. 52

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Dining SPOTLIGHT

American

Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map

ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Nature Conservancy’s “favorite green restaurant” offers sophisticated fare and distinctive cocktails amid contemporary decor; the striking citrus-and-herb garden terrace features fire “tornadoes.” L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4

H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 61-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

ARC Chef Noah Blom’s “flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine (e.g., savory meatballs with garlic and whiskey, pig with black beans, maple and herbs) amid rustic-apothecary decor; superb cocktails use housemade everything.

L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12 BABETTE’S East Hampton eatery opens stylish West Coast outpost with lovely patio. Organic farm-totable fare, artisan cocktails (try the Billionaire!), veganvegetarian options and juice bar. B, L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7962 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.9915 $$$ Map M17

NoCo Tacos Taco talk of late centers on Anaheim—Center Street Promenade and the Anaheim Packing House—in North County. Jimmy Martinez, former chef at L.A.’s Boa Steakhouse, goes back to his Puerto Rican and Mexican roots to open Pour Vida Latin Flavor (185 W. Center Street Promenade, 657.208.3889).

Taco styles include pineapple skirt steak, tempura oyster and heirloom cauliflower.

New Urbana at Anaheim Packing House offers urbane Michoacán street cuisine (440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714.502.0255). Tacos include slow-braised barbacoa (above) and the Primavera, with portobello, cauliflower and crispy kale. A Day of the Dead skull smiles out from massive murals; the logo adds a fish for its nose and temples.

BACK BAY BISTRO Snazzy spot overlooking the Back Bay at the Dunes with retractable roof. L, D (W-Sa), Br (Sa-Su). Newport Dunes, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.1144 $$ Map M14 BAYSIDE First-rate New American fare. A smashing new interior update and sprawling bar and patio host exec lunches, romantic dinners and lazy brunches. Live jazz. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.1222 $$$ Map M1 THE BEACHCOMBER Spot in a historic cottage right on the sand at Crystal Cove State Park beach. Roasted French feta; Prime flat iron steak with wild-mushroomand-truffle mac; Gimme S’mores! dessert. Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Shuttle from Los Trancos lot. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 BISTANGO Beautifully presented contemporary cuisine, extensive wine list, impressively redone bar, jazz nightly.

L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.752.5222 $$$ Map K14 THE BLIND PIG Creative fare (bone marrow with octopus, fennel, black garlic; coulotte steak with springpea puree, watermelon radish) and top cocktails lakeside.

L, D (Tu-Su). 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.0072 $$ Map east of D6 BOATHOUSE COLLECTIVE Sprawling yet hidden indoor-outdoor venue in an industrial area. Asian-inflected New American fare. Surfboards hang from the ceiling.

L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 1640 Pomona Ave, Costa Mesa, 949.646.3176 $$ Map H15 BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Top Chef contender offers creative “cuisine of the Americas.” Beer-battered Florida frog legs; chocolate cavatelli pasta with spicy pork ragout. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234 $$$ Map H15 CHAPTER ONE: THE MODERN LOCAL Librarythemed spot is always a page-turner; and “culinary cocktails” add intriguing plot twists. L, D (daily). 227 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.352.2225 $$ Map H13 EAT CHOW “Chowified” fare includes Southern, French, Mexican and Cuban favorites. B, L, D (daily). 1802 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.2469; 211 62nd St., Newport Beach, 949.423.7080 $$ Map K12, N12 DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN & BAR Overlooks the sand.

Octopus “a la plancha” taco, shareable whole fried Texas redfish; bourbons and whiskeys in the Stateroom Bar. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.715.7700 $$ Map I15

Index American................................. 32 Brewpubs/Gastropubs.......36 California.................................36 Chinese....................................38 Continental.............................38 Eclectic.....................................38 Food Halls................................46 French.......................................40 Indian........................................40

International...........................40 Italian.........................................41 Japanese..................................42 Mediterranean.......................42 Mexican/Latin.......................43 Quick Bites..............................47 Seafood....................................44 Steak..........................................45 Vietnamese.............................46

GRITS FULLERTON New. Former Hopscotch chef serves no-rules creative Southern California—as in Southern and California—breakfast and lunch. Pancake Balls; four-style pork belly; steak-and-crab “Benny”; lengua chilaquiles. B, L (daily). 133 W. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, 714.449.0939 $$ Map A3 HOLSTEINS SHAKES AND BUNS New. High-end burgers—El Caliente with chicharrones and tequilacilantro mayo, off-menu Kobe-beef Billionaire with foie gras—and Bamboozled milkshakes such as A-Chocolypse Now, with alcohol and without. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.352.2525 $$ Map J13 JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR New American fare.

Juliette Chung helms the restaurant, husband Jon Hughes the adjacent wine shop, daughter Erica Choir the pastries; Daniel Hyatt is chef. L (M-Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map J13 LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE Chic and sleek affair at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Cutting-edge cuisine and special menus themed to Broadway shows.

Ideal for pre- or post-performance. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13 LILLIE’S Q Outpost of Charlie McKenna’s Chicago eatery brings his ribs, which consistently win prestigious national barbecue competitions, plus other Southern fare and moonshine cocktails. L, D (daily). 240 S. Brea Blvd., Brea, 714.482.2001 $$$ Map A3 LITTLE SPARROW Improvisational bistro fare; charcuterie; superb cocktails. Recently featured on Bravo TV’s Best New Restaurant series. Look for the CAFE sign on the corner. L (W-Sa), D (W-Su), Br (Su). 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.265.7640 $$ Map G13 NORTH LEFT Chefs Ryan Adams (Three Seventy Common) and Aron Habiger have a hip, super-casual winner—the ambiance of a downscale bar, the cuisine of an upscale dining room. B, L, D, (M-F), D (M-Sa). 400 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.543.3543 $$ Map H13 OLD VINE CAFE Regional and seasonal; a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple French toast, beef-tongue panini or four-course tasting menus with wine pairings. B, L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 PARK AVE Owner-chef David Slay’s creative renditions of classic American fare feature housemade and homegrown specialties. Most produce meticulously grown on premises; visit the garden! Architecture is Googie, decor midcentury retro. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8

The Halal Guys, inspiring long lines at their NYC gyro cart for decades, open their first West Coast location, in Costa Mesa. Chicken and falafel platters and wraps, too. 714.850.1080

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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) 540-3365

3333 Bear St. #118 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.nellocucina.com

10/28/15 12:25 PM

Dining 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. Playground 2.0 is a tasting-dinner “culinary theater.” D (daily). 220 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 RAINFOREST CAFE Creative decor, animatronics and special effects bring the rain forest indoors; dine among lush vegetation, lightning storms and wild animals.

Expansive menu; kids’ menu. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10

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RALPH BRENNAN’S JAZZ KITCHEN Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz (beaded piano!) at spot inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo Ya-Ya, 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 $$ Map I10 THE RANCH Sophisticated restaurant and super-fun saloon. Chef Michael Rossi offers escargot with hazelnut spaetzle, fried Petaluma quail, glorious bone-in cowboy rib-eye; try brother David Rossi’s pecan pie. Most produce picked daily on the Ranch’s own farm. D (nightly). 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 $$$ Map I11 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. Soju bloody mary; pain perdu.

B, L (Tu-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17 SANDY’S HB SoCal vibe, vibrant setting steps from the sand at Huntington Beach Pier. Regionally inspired cuisine and huge patio. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 315 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.7273 $$ Map N9

Costa Mesa

Newport Beach

633 Anton Blvd.

714.546.7405

8112 East Coast Highway 949.376.6990

ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS: 3 LOCATIONS IN SCOTTSDALE, AZ LAS VEGAS, NV BEVERLY HILLS, CA PALM DESERT, CA THOUSAND OAKS, CA CHICAGO, IL MALIBU, CA NEW YORK, NY WASHINGTON, D.C. • OPENING 2015 www.MastrosRestaurants.com •

MastrosRestaurants •

@MastrosOfficial

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 $$ Map J13 SKYLOFT Opens presently, offering scenic rooftop dining atop the historic Heisler building. Smokehouse barbecue fare includes wings, tri-tip salad and grilled salmon. Local breweries, live music. L, D (daily). 422 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1550 $$ Map I16

Mexican Inspired Prime Steak & Seafood

SOCIAL Jeffrey Boullt delivers knockout cuisine and cocktails near the Triangle; named best new restaurant at the Golden Foodies Awards. Wood-fired oysters; fried cauliflower; akaushi Drive Thru Burger; Prime cowbeye eib-eye for two. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.2425 $$ Map K12 STONEHILL TAVERN Michael Mina’s urbane ode to New American dining, in shimmering room at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort. Stunning tasting menus by executive chef Raj Dixit. D (Tu-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3318 $$$ Map J17 25 DEGREES Foodie-friendly design-your-own-burger and wine bar with speak-easy decor. Burger options include artisan cheeses, extras such as Hatch green chili, sauces including gallego. L, D (daily). 412 Walnut Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.960.2525 $$ Map N9 THREE SEVENTY COMMON Chef Ryan Adams offers winning fare such as halibut with peas, mint, onion and preserved lemon. Apple fried pies. Family-style Sunday Night Social dinners. D (nightly). 370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map H15 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

Wine Spectator Award of Excellence San Diego

Fashion Island - 143 Newport Center Drive 949.718.0300 NEW LOCATION IN

redorestaurant.com

OPENING SOON!

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Dining WATERTABLE Chef Manfred Lassahn pulls out the stops at restaurant and “gastro bar” in inspired “living rooms” and on redone 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 $$ Map N9 ZIMZALA Surfer-chic spot at hip Shorebreak Hotel offers “American/beach comfort” cuisine—and Cal-Med. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.960.5050 $$ Map N9

Brewpubs and Gastropubs HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Vadouvan-crusted lamb belly with spiced rutabaga and house harissa; superlative burgers. 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 MEMPHIS Southern, Cajun-Creole and Southwest dishes in hip retro setting. Start with gumbo or the pulledpork sliders. B, L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2920 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.7685 $$ Map J13 MRK PUBLIC New. Three chefs—two of them from the late Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach—offer elevated pub favorites, notably Tuscan Toast, Vietnamese Sticky Wings and fried chicken sandwich, and craft beers (all $5). It’s a winner! L, D (Tu-Su). 1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.441.7621 $$ Map south of F6

SLATER’S 50/50 Burgers! Design your own—or try Peanut Butter & Jellousy or Fritos Crunch. Superior brew list. 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

voted best seafood orange county in

i

SIDE DOOR Superb spot shares replica of England’s oldest inn with the 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

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 in stylish setting; polished staff includes dozens of sommeliers. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.635.2300 $$$ Map I10 OAK GRILL Chef Marc Johnson delivers from start (seared Maine diver scallops with heirloom beans and capers) to finish (Rocky Road Bar). Fifty wines by the glass; superb cocktails. Shares huge patio with Aqua Lounge. B, L, D (daily). Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 $$$$ Map L15 PROVENANCE Cathy Pavlos’ wine-country-farmhousethemed spot has raised-bed patio garden; produce is the star. Dessert: S’more in a Jar, or the Earl Grey cream soda cocktail with cinnamon bourbon. Fantastic brunch. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 531 Eastbluff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0477 $$ 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

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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N EW P O RT B E A C H

THE FLAVORS OF THE FRENCH RIVIERA

FASHION ISLAND, NEWPORT BEACH 151 Newport Center Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660 949 877 3005

figandolive.com

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TH

Dining SPLASHES RESTAURANT AND BAR Indoors by the fireplace or on the patio steps from the sand, the water’s-edge 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 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 with an ambitious menu of creative Cal-French cuisine. D (Tu-Su). Montage Resort & Spa, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 866.271.6953 $$$$ Map I16 URTH CAFFÉ New. Organic heirloom coffee destination serves wide array of breakfast and lunch items plus pastries, cakes, juices and boba drinks in landmark restored nearly century-old cottage. B, L (daily). 308 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 213.797.4527 $ Map H15 THE WINERY Chef/partner Yvon Goetz offers superior contemporary cuisine—the freshest seafood, wild game, USDA Prime steaks plus cigar patios and extensive wine cellars—at two striking locations. Tustin: L (M-F), D (nightly); Newport: D (nightly). District at Tustin Legacy, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600; 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.999.6622 $$$ Map D4, N13

Chinese 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 $$ Map J13 TWENTY EIGHT Top Chef finalist Shirley Chung—former executive chef at China Poblano by José Andrés—offers modern Chinese in stylish digs. Singapore-style chili lobster; slow-braised oxtail. L, D (daily). 19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.852.2828 $$ Map K14

Continental FIVE CROWNS Venerated Lawry’s spot in English inn replica celebrates 50th anniversary with 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 $$$ Map M16 THE HOBBIT Transporting dinners at homey hacienda revered for special occasions. Multicourse prix-fixe affair: cocktails upstairs, elaborate appetizers in the wine cellar, new Continental classics in elegant dining rooms. Menu changes weekly. Reservations essential. D (W-Su). 2932 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.1972 $$$$ Map J11 ORANGE HILL Hilltop hideaway with endless city-light views; traditional and updated fare includes seafood, prime rib, lobster. Orange Bar has retro orange theme and orange piano. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.2910 $$ Map C5 21 OCEANFRONT Romantic restaurant with sunset views, cozy bars, servers in black tie and menu featuring abalone, oysters Rockefeller and superb crab legs as well as steaks and osso buco. Live entertainment in the lounge.

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

Eclectic MIX Restaurant and lounge at the Hilton Anaheim’s atrium lobby gets striking new redo and chef’s table, offers globally influenced fare using locally sourced ingredients. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10

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Dining SAPPHIRE LAGUNA Chef Azmin Ghahreman offers globally inspired dishes at stylish restaurant. Gourmet pantry for picnic and takeout. The popular patio has a partial ocean view. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15

French BISTRO PAPILLOTE New. Laurent Brazier of La Cuisine Culinary Arts cooking school launches Parisian café offering the classics in former Seventh Tea Bar space at OC Mix. B, L (daily). South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.641.2005 $$ Map J12 GOLDEN TRUFFLE Disciples of chef/owner Alan Greeley overlook his enduring bistro’s strip-mall digs in favor of his maverick approach. Wine list is loaded with labels you won’t easily find elsewhere. L (Tu-F), D (Th-Sa). 1767 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.645.9858 $$$ Map L12 MARCHÉ MODERNE Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia raise the bistro to delicious heights with their unstuffy but oh-so-French effort. He revels in what’s seasonal. Dessert? Exquisite cheeses or Amelia’s transcendent desserts. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map J13

LUNCH, DINNER, and SUNDAY BRUNCH Live Music Nightly!

MOULIN Cheery bistro-epicerie-café offers rotisserie chicken, baguette sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, wine and beer—all French amid French logo decor. B, L (daily); prix-fixe D (Tu). 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920 $$ Map K13 VIE DE FRANCE Classic onion soup, breads (excellent croissants!) and pastries baked fresh daily, sandwiches made to order, desserts homemade at charming bistro and bakery. B, L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.1734 $ Map J13

Indian CLAY OVEN Regional and creative Indian fare.

Habanero shrimp vindaloo; goat curry; tandoori venison.

Owner/chef Geeta Bansal recently cooked at New York’s prestigious James Beard House. L, D (daily). 15435 Jeffrey Road, Irvine, 949.552.2851 $$ Map D5

714.776.5200

Downtown Disney® District • www.rbjazzkitchen.com

and Jazz Kitchen EXPRESS! A Taste of New Orleans TO GO

BEIGNETS • PO-BOYS • GUMBO • SNO-BALLS

Home Sweet Home .

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

International DARYA Top-notch traditional Persian cuisine and service in an elegant atmosphere at South Coast Plaza Village.

Specialty stews, rices and kebabs; combination platters; live music on weekends. L, D (daily). 3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 614.557.6600 $$$ Map J13 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 $$ Map L13 MOZAMBIQUE African fortress gone hip and stylish offers Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine such as piri piri prawns. Veranda rooftop dining. Casual spinoff in Newport Beach. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777; the Bluffs, 1332 Bison Ave., Newport Beach, 949.718.0956 $$ Map I16, K14 OLD WORLD GERMAN RESTAURANT Authentic German and Austrian cuisine such as schnitzel and bratwurst. L, D (Tu-Su). 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.895.8020 $ Map C2 ROYAL THAI CUISINE Casually elegant family-owned spots on the coast for more than 30 years. Honey

Open 24 Hrs! FREE Wi-Fi!

1500 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim (Across the street from Disneyland® Resort)

FREE WI-FI • OPEN 24 HOURS

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Dining 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

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 $$$ Map I10 ANDREA Elegant but unstuffy. Spectacular views of elysian vistas and the ocean. Superb northern Italian cuisine. Pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L, D (daily). Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 949.467.6800 $$$$ Map L17 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE Top-notch, romantic northern Italian restaurant in faux villa; 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 $$$ Map J13 BRUNOS TRATTORIA Lively, contemporary spot offers memorable dishes such as hamachi with sweet-and-sour shallots, wild-boar-sausage bucatini, caramel-chocolate budino, and housemade limoncello liqueur. L, D (daily). 210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000 $$$ Map A3 CANALETTO Venetian-style restaurant offers salumeria, antipasti, wood-fired pizzas, specialty meat and seafood dishes (e.g., vermicelli Cassopipa with seafood ragu). L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 545 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.0900 $$$ Map M16 CUCINA ENOTECA Cal-Ital plus wine shop amid fun decor. Vasi (filled jars), lobster gnocchi neri, guanciale bucatini, house-infused liquors. L, D (daily), Br (Su). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000; Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222 $$ 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 IL DOLCE PIZZERIA Artisanal Naples-style pizzas and pastas in modest spot at busy intersection. The simple pepperoni pizza may be the county’s best; the pistachio pizza, with Parmesan, red onions, rosemary and Gruyère, is a more unusual delight. L, D (daily). 1902 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.200.9107 $$ Map K12 IL FORNAIO Upscale casual trattoria and bakery features housemade 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 $$$ Map J14 IL GARAGE Beguiling Italian spot from David Slay, of acclaimed ParkAve, in a garage, amid a 1924 tractor and red-checkered tablecloths; it overlooks the garden that inspires and supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8

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Dining MAMA D’S Neighborhood spot on the peninsula has a loyal following, thanks to large portions and very personable wait staff. Extensive menu; pasta, chicken and hero sandwiches at lunch. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3012 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.6262 $$ Map N13 NELLO CUCINA Italian steakhouse plus thin-crust pizzas, innovative pastas in South Coast Plaza’s Bear Street wing; sibling to Antonello Ristorante. L, D (daily). 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.3365 $$ Map J13 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. D (daily). 2929 E. Coast Hwy, Corona del Mar, 949.675.2932 $$$ Map M16 PIZZA E VINO Among the county’s most authentic Naples-style pizza, steps from a lake; the mistosalumi version is a flavor explosion. L, D (daily). 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy., Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.713.1500 $$ Map east of E6 PIZZERIA MOZZA Culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich replicate their L.A. and Singapore spots. Pizzas use distinctive dough and beguiling ingredients. Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel copetta with marshmallow sauce.

L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Spot owned by L.A. chef David Myers (Comme Ça) offers refined authentic Neapolitan fare using intriguing ingredients beneath soaring arched ceilings and frescoes. L (M-F), D (nightly). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13 QUATTRO CAFFÉ Antonio Cagnolo of nearby, much-lauded Antonello Ristorante rejuvenates shoppers with stylish fare. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.754.0300 $$ Map J13 SAPORI RISTORANTE Signature dishes at charming spot near Balboa Island include polenta e porcini, penne otero, farfalle salmone, scalloppine Gorgonzola. Adjacent new pizzeria. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1080 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.4220 $$$ Map N14 VITALY Maurizio and Barbara Cocchi of Bologna offer croissants, piadine and tigelle sandwiches, espresso, beer, wine, gelato and gelato flights in tiny cones. B, L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.662.5500 $$ Map J13

Japanese BLUEFIN Master sushi chef Takashi Abe offers exquisite sushi and hot entrées. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Promenade, 7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.7373 $$$ Map M17 HAMAMORI Sparkling environment with undulating curves overlooks Bear Street. Rice-cracker-coated jumbo asparagus with yuzu sea salt; tamari-marinated black cod. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.850.0880 $$$ Map J13 SUSHI ROKU New. Cal-Japanese sushi pioneer opens gorgeous spot at Fashion Island. Fluke kumquat sashimi; premium tofu three ways; blue-crab tartare; robata skewers; Prime rib-eye steak Japonais; spectacular s’mores dessert. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.3622 $$ Map L15

Mediterranean FIG & OLIVE Pascal Lorange’s cuisine is an ode to olive oil and what’s on the plate—from crostini and crudo starters to crème-brûlée cheesecake—is sophisticated.

The olive tree-studded setting is stunning. L, D (daily),

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BEFORE YOU FLY, SURF. www.whereOC.com Discover timely information on current events, restaurants, sights and attractions on the WHERE Magazine website.

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Dining Br (Sa-Su). 151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.877.3005 $$$ Map L15

OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award Top 100 Restaurants in America

LUCCA CAFE & MARKET Euro-chic bistro, deli and wine bar is a destination for foodies seeking unusual items and dishes using artisanal and organic local ingredients. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6507 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.725.1773 $$ Map D5 MESA Young chef Niki Starr Weyler helms the kitchen at this stylish spot at the Camp. Hip scene includes retractable glass roof, intriguing decor and unisex restrooms. Ahi-tuna “tacos,” cast-iron-skillet mussels, winebraised short ribs; superb cocktails. D (Tu-Sa). 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 $$ Map J13 ZOV’S Zov Karamardian’s passion propels her spots; 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

Mexican/Latin ANEPALCO’S 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 $$ Map B4 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Old Towne day-trippers and tequila connoisseurs duck into this rustically stylish haven for spirited takes on regional Mexican fare far beyond tacos and burritos. L, D (daily). 141 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3038 $$ Map C4

Orange County’s most sophisticated hot spot features contemporary American fare with a focus on the region’s local produce.

Join us on the patio with ocean views or in the bar for artisinal cocktails, craft beer and world-class wines and signature appetizer bar jars.

Serving breakfast daily from 6:30am.

Nominated for Best New Restaurant 2015 - OC Weekly watertablehb.com ◆ (714) 845 4776

HABANA Hip setting, hip clientele, nuevo Latino 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 $$ Map J13 KUTSI New. Regional dishes served amid stunning Mexican tile work and light fixtures in the former Memphis at the Santoro space. Historic building; patio on pedestrian promenade. D (Tu-Sa); Br (Su). 201 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.564.1616 $$ Map G13 LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with renowned guacamole and superb coastal views.

Snapper Veracruzana; Yucatán chicken. The patio is packed. B, L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15 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 $$ Map H10 PUEBLO Acclaimed yearling spot offers traditional and contemporary Spanish tapas—seared spot prawns with green olives and garlic; pork belly with sea scallops and cauliflower crema—amid folclórico-style decor. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775 $$ Map J12

The Outlets at Orange

Huntington Beach

20111 Brookhurst Street 20 City Boulevard (Behind Nordstrom Rack) (Brookhurst & Adams) 714-769-3474 714-963-7796

visit marketbroiler.com

RAYA Sophisticated global cuisine from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree, roasted halibut with truffled boniato and crispy jalapeños; the churros are a must! B, L, D (daily). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16 RED O Sexy design with lots of Moroccan accents, menu by Mexican cuisine guru Rick Bayless. Ceviches, guacamole tasting, lamb chops mole negro. Extensive tequila list; the Topolo house margarita is outstanding.

L, D (daily). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0300 $$$ Map L15

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Dining SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooking harbor canals offers vibrant Baja-inspired dishes by Deborah Schneider (Amor y Tacos, new 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 $$ Map M14 SOLITA Sol Cocina spinoff offers tacos (e.g., chorizo, bacon and sweet potatoes; chili tofu; wood-grilled carne asada) and margaritas. Start with queso al forno with bubbling, spicy Mexican cheeses. L, D (daily). Bella Terra, 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.894.2792 $ Map C2 TACO MARÍA Carlos Salgado serves up meticulous and always fascinating “Chicano cuisine” at OC Mix, e.g., piloncillo pork belly with pencil-cob grits, cherry and dandelion. Memorable, truly distinctive tacos at lunch; dinner is four-course prix-fixe. L (Tu-Sa), D (W-Sa). South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.538.8444, $$$ Map J12 TORTILLA REPUBLIC Inventive fare, stylish decor. Duckconfit tacos with sour-cherry salsita; tequila-coriander-rub hanger steak; 100 blue-agave spirits at the onyx-cap bar.

Two dining terraces and courtyard patio; even the chefs have ocean views. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 480 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.393.4888 $$$ Map I16 VACA New. Amar Santana, Top Chef contender this season and owner/chef at acclaimed Broadway in Laguna Beach, and partner Ahmed Labbate open Spanish spot serving tapas, paellas, bocadillos, housemade charcuterie and sangrias. L, D (daily). 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 619.806.0553 $$$ Map J13 WHO SONG AND LARRY’S Eclectic Cal-Mex cantina with Asian accents near Honda Center: crunchy crabchicharrón-chipotle sushi; lobster mac-and-cheese enchiladas; avocado split with dulce de leche ice cream, pecan brittle, XO sauce; shareable Larry y Yo cocktail with upside-down Coronita beer. L, D (daily). 1535 W. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.639.9550 $$ Map I11

Seafood AMELIA’S SEAFOOD & ITALIAN RESTAURANT Charming local favorite for almost half a century offers scampi Caesar salad, linguine with fresh bay scallops and baby calamari in marinara sauce, and cioppino. The intimate patio table is coveted. D (nightly), Br (F-Su). 311 Marine Ave., Balboa Island, 949.673.6580 $$ Map M15 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 $$ Map D4, N13 THE CANNERY The spot is historic—a cannery in 1921, a fine seafooder for 40 years—but what’s been coming out of the kitchen of late is better than ever. Jellyfish Lounge specializes in sushi; great happy hour. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3010 Lafayette Road, Newport Beach, 949.566.0060 $$ Map N13 THE CATCH Sleek spot popular with sports fans as well as concertgoers—it’s near Angel Stadium and Honda Center. 5-pound OMG burger feeds 10; hot chocolate sundae flamed tableside. L, D (Tu-Su). 2100 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.935.0101 $$ Map I11 DUKE’S Hawaiian-inspired seafood, Prime steaks and infectious beach-house ambiance. Next to the pier; Barefoot Bar; endless ocean views. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 317 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.6446 $$ Map N9 HARBOR GRILL Excellent mesquite-grilled seafood, pastas, gumbos, bouillabaisse at Dana Point Harbor; consider the rosebud martini and the sustainably farmed

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Dining

Something for Everyone LUNCH • DINNER • HAPPY HOUR

RESTAURANT & SALOON

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 fresh 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, L10 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB Bluff-top, ocean-view spot.

Dry-ice enshrouded Seafood Tower; freshest seafood in majestic proportions; and the don’t-miss 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 THE RITZ PRIME SEAFOOD New. The Ritz, a Newport Beach institution, gets new life in a breathtakingly updated incarnation on the water. Lobster and squidink pasta with uni butter; whole branzino; coconut cake. D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 880 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.1800 $$$ Map N13 SHUCK Oyster bar offers meticulously shucked selections. Superb grilled cheese sandwich, seafood stew. Bubblies and brews. L, D (daily). OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.420.0478 $$ Map J12

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TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY New in Irvine.

Excellent seafood and steaks, oyster bar, gold-medalwinning brews, spectacular brunch. 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. $$$ Map A3, C5 WATERLINE All-meal “water to table” fresh local seafood experience overlooking harbor replaces First Cabin restaurant. Crab eggs Benedict at breakfast; halibut BLT at lunch; scallops “Peas & Carrots” at dinner. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888.894.2788 $$$ Map M13 WOODY’S WHARF Seafood and steaks since 1965.

Cary Grant and Mickey Mantle were guests. Chuck Norris once owned it; doormen included Jean-Claude Van Damme! L (M-Sa), D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.0474 $$ Map N13

Steak AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at Brazilian steakhouse cooked over fire pit, 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 New. Akaushi Kobe-style Prime steaks and burgers (and one Japanese Kobe) plus seafood amid whimsical and sophisticated industrial-chic decor and on O.C.’s largest ocean-view patio. L, D (daily).

1830 Main St., Irvine, 949.222.9910 $$$ Map J13 THE CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant steakhouse offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Panfried calamari with cherry peppers; bone-in kona-crusted dry-aged sirloin; ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J13 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue; prime everything. Classy feel extends to bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass and in flights. Prime rib on Sundays. Br (Su), D (nightly). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15

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Dining 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 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Classy bastions of beef get slick new redesign. 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 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Bone-in cowboy ribeye; caramelized banana cream pie. Soaring ceilings, modern sculpture, colorful glass at Anaheim location.

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

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

151007 5 Points Plaza WHERE Mag Oct 2015 f.pdf

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BAMBOO BISTRO Contemporary Vietnamese and Thai fare from Chau Dang Haller, whose mother owns Brodard Chateau (below). Crepes, Thai soups, pho, vermicelli and curries. L, D (daily). 2600 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.720.1289 $$ Map M16 BREAK OF DAWN Iconic, recently relocated spot is known for generous portions of chef Dee Nguyen’s superb Vietnamese-inflected American breakfast fare.

B, L (W-Su). 24351 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, 949.587.9418 $$ Map G17 BRODARD CHATEAU Elegant two-story venue serves the specialty dishes of Hanoi, Hue and Saigon.

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

Food Halls ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE Historic citrus hub— the Sunkist building—reopens with two dozen foodie vendors including new Urbana for Mexican; Adya for CalIndian; Sawleaf for Vietnamese; Rolling Boil for Asian hot pots; Georgia’s for Southern fare; Kettlebar for steam-kettle-cooked seafood pan roasts; Hammer Bar & Tool Shed for cocktails; Black Sheep for grilled cheese sandwiches; Ecco Pizza; the Iron Press for savory waffles; Popbar for gelato on a stick; and Dark 180 for sophisticated hot chocolate. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.635.1350 $$ Map H10 4TH STREET MARKET New. Sixteen foodie tenants in the East End, among them Noodle Tramp, Electric City Butcher, Touch S’more Co., KTCHN DTSA, Portola Coffee Lab and three concepts from innovative Playground owner/chef Jason Quinn: PFC for chicken, Wagyu Chuck for burgers and Recess Libations for cocktails on tap. L, D (daily). 201 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.486.0700 $$ Map H13

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Dining

OCEANFRONT DINING AT THE PIER

UNION MARKET New. Restaurants joining hip retail tenants include Hatch for sliders and tiki drinks; Kettlebar Steam Cooking for seafood stews, notably pan roasts; and the Kroft for market-inspired sandwiches and poutine. L, D (daily). The District, 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, unionmarkettustin.com $$ Map D4

Quick Bites BRUXIE O.C.’s original waffle sandwiches. Hot tickets: Pastrami Bruxie, Creamsicle float. 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; 279 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.877.3015 $ Map N8, C4, 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 sibling to the Crow Bar + Kitchen in Corona del Mar 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 LEMONADE Seasonal SoCal comfort food in a fastcasual cafeteria setting. A huge array of distinctive salads, sandwiches, slow-simmered stews—and several lemonades, of course! L, D (daily). Park Place, 2967 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1560; 987; Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.7525 $ Map J14, L15

U P S TA I R S | 7 1 4 . 3 74 . 6 4 4 6 317 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach

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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

T S RESTAURANTS OF HAWAII AND CALIFORNIA

MENDOCINO FARMS New in Irvine. Winning spot with blue-cow theme offers newfangled sandwiches— Drunk’n Goat on Highway 128, Spicy Lemongrass Steak Banh Mi—and salads. L, D (daily). 4187 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.783.2900; 450 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.548.2500 $$ Map D4, M13 PROVISIONS MARKET Specialty market and bottle shop offers new take on classic deli foods. Smoked-marlin starter; CB&J—roasted cashew butter, stout-apricotbacon jam and banana chips. L, D (daily). 143 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.997.2337 $$ Map C4 SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Top-notch creative sandwiches, from the Gangnam Korean meatball and El Cubano to the Molly vegan. Tasty salads, too. B, L, D (daily). 414 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, 714.594.3899; 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001 $ Map N9, N13 THE TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN New in Newport. Eclectic menu from Blind Pig team includes chashupork sandwich, spaghetti sandwich and chili cheese tots.

B, L, D (daily). 31431 Santa Margarita Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.709.5545; 75 E. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.1029 $ Map east of D6, N13 UMAMI BURGER Much lauded burgers in 10 styles (e.g., Truffle, Tandoori) in hip venues; off-the-menu “tater tots.” 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 HOLSTEINS SHAKES AND BUNS Holsteins first originated at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, but has since established itself as the acclaimed contemporary burger concept new to South Coast Plaza. It offers “bamboozled” alcoholic shakes, small bites, entrees and a craft beer list to serve any discerning palate. Menu highlights include the Gold Standard, a dry-aged beef sirloin burger with smoked bacon, aged goatcheddar cheese, tomato confit, arugula and garlic-chive aioli; and the El Caliente, served with pickled jalapeño, pepper jack cheese, pork chicharrones and tequila-cilantro mayo. Holsteins’ fun and inviting ambiance welcomes you with a life-size neon-pink cow and brightly colored art like “A Good Life,” which pays homage to the O.C. lifestyle. Private dining available. Happy Hour M-Th 4-7 pm and 10 pm-close. L, D (daily) South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa • 714.352.2525 holsteinsburgers.com

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

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 30 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 on the waterfront in Newport Beach. The Orange County Concierge Association named the destination its 2014 restaurant of the year, its fourth such award since its 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 ZOV’S Established in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, a James Beard award winner, Zov’s has earned the respect of local, regional and national food critics as well as the dining public. Zov’s offers American favorites with a Mediterranean influence: salads, sandwiches, steaks and seafood. Signature dishes include kebab two ways—Angus beef filet and natural chicken, classic rice pilaf, tomato-cucumber salad and grilled lemon—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 for 10-70 guests.

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

AMELIA’S SEAFOOD & ITALIAN RESTAURANT Amelia’s is celebrating more than 50 years of delighting visitors and locals alike. Located among the boutiques on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, this quaint European-style restaurant specializes in exquisite pasta and delectable seafood. Try the linguine with baby calamari and fresh bay scallops with marinara sauce.

Amelia’s features at least 5 very fresh fish daily and mouthwatering combination dinners such as the filet mignon and scampi.

Fine wines available. Private parties from eight to 48. Sunset dinner $12.95, Sunday-Friday 5-6 pm. D (nightly), Br (F-Su).

311 Marine Ave., Newport Beach 949.673.6580 • ameliasbalboaisland.com

ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Andrei’s, the Nature Conservancy’s “favorite green restaurant,” thinks responsibly in its sourcing and commitment to sustainability. Enjoy grass-fed buffalo sliders, panko-crusted portobello mushroom fries or famous warm octopus 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. 3-7 pm, Sat. 5-7 pm. Events and private dining available. L (M-F), D (M-Sa).

2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 • andreisrestaurant.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).............46

lucca cafe (Mediterranean)...................... 43

The trough (Sandwiches)........................... 47

anaheim packing house (Various)....46

MEMPHIS (American)....................................... 36

McCormick & Schmick’s (Seafood)..... 45

21 Oceanfront (Continental)................... 38

anaheim White House (Italian)............ 41

MENDOCINO FARMS (Quick Bites)............ 47

MENDOCINO FARMS (Quick Bites)............ 47

waterline (Seafood).................................... 45

THE BLIND PIG (American)............................32

MESA (Med.-American)..................................... 43

Ruth’s Chris Steak House (Steak)...46

THE WINERY (California)................................ 38

THE CATCH (Seafood).....................................44

Morton’s (Steak)...........................................46

TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................... 45

wOODY’s WHARF (Seafood)........................ 45

ecco (Italian)...................................................... 41

nello cucina (Italian)................................ 42

twenty eight (Chinese)............................. 38

newport coast

old vine cafe (American)..........................32

Umami burger (American)......................... 47

andrea (Italian)................................................ 41

Zov’s Bistro (Mediterranean)................... 43

babette’s (American)....................................32

LAGUNA BEACH

the beachcomber (American)................32

break of dawn (Vietnamese).................46

bluefin (Japanese)......................................... 42

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

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood)......... 45

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

ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)................... 43

LAS BRISAS (Mexican).................................... 43

ORANGE

mozambique (South African).....................40

anepalco’s (Mexican-French).................... 43

ROYAL thai (Thai)..........................................40

bruxie (Belgian)............................................... 47

Sapphire (Eclectic).........................................40

FrANCOLI GOURMET (Italian).................... 41

selanne steak tavern (Steak)...........46

GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican).43

skyloft (American)....................................... 34

haven gastropub (Brew Pub)................ 36

Splashes (California)..................................... 38

the hobbit (Continental)............................. 38

J.T. Schmid’S (Brew Pub) . .............................. 36 McCormick & Schmick’s (Seafood)..... 45 Mcdonald’s (Quick Bites)........................... 47 MIX (Eclectic)....................................................... 38 mORTON’s (Steak)...........................................46 napa rose (California).................................. 36 pour vida (Mexican)..................................... 43 RAINFOREST CAFE (Themed).................... 34 ralph brennan’s (American)................. 34 The ranch (American)................................. 34 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak)...46

pizzeria ortica (Italian).......................... 42 pueblo (Spanish)............................................. 43 quattro Caffe (Italian)............................ 42 royal khyber (Indian)...............................40 SEASONS 52 (American)................................ 34 shuck oyster bar (Seafood)................. 45 social (American)........................................... 34 taco maria (Mexican).................................44 Umami burger (American)......................... 47

slater’s 50/50 (Burgers/Brew Pub) . ...... 36

vaca (Spanish)...................................................44

UMAMI BURGER (American)......................... 47

vie de france (French)..............................40

Zov’s ANAHEIM (Mediterranean)............... 43

vitaly (Italian).................................................. 42

STUDIO (California)........................................... 38

market broiler (Seafood)....................... 45

BREA

DANA POINT

three seventy common (American).... 34

orange hill (Continental).......................... 38

brunos trattoria (Italian)..................... 41

Harbor Grill (Seafood).............................44

tortilla republic (Mexican)................44

PROVISIONS (Quick Bites)............................. 47

bruxie (Belgian)............................................... 47

RAYA (Latin fusion)............................................ 43

UMAMI BURGER (American)......................... 47

WHO SONG & LARRY’S (Mexican) ......... 44

lillie’s q (American)......................................32

stonehill tavern (American)................ 34

urth caffé (California)............................... 38

rancho santa margarita

taps fish house (Brew Pub/Seafood).... 45

FULLERTON

NEWPORT BEACH

The BLIND PIG (American)............................32

CORONA DEL MAR

Grits (American)................................................32

Amelia’s (Seafood)..........................................44

PIZZA E VINO (Italian)................................... 42

garden grove

backbay bistro (American).....................32

The trough (Sandwiches)........................... 47

brodard chateau (Vietnamese)..........46

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

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

HUNTINGTON BEACH

BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood).....................44

Ramos House Cafe (American)............. 34

CANALETTO RISTORANTE (Italian)......... 41

SANTA ANA

the cannery (Seafood)..............................44

c4 deli (American).......................................... 47

CROW Burger KITCHEN (Gastropub)... 47

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

Cucina Enoteca (Italian).......................... 41

4th street market (Food Halls)...........46

fig & olive (Mediterranean)........................ 42

kutsi (Mexican)................................................. 43

Fleming’s (Steak)........................................... 45

little sparrow (American)......................32

IL BARONE RISTORANTE (Italian)............ 41

morton’s (Steak)...........................................46

Juliette Kitchen + Bar (American)....32

north left (American)................................32

bamboo bistro (Vietnamese).................46 Five Crowns (Continental)........................ 38 pirozzi (Italian)................................................ 42 SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)................................. 36

COSTA MESA/ south coast metro ANQI (Vietnamese Fusion)...............................46 Antonello Ristorante (Italian)......... 41 arc (American)...................................................32 BISTRO PAPILLOTE (French).......................40 boathouse collective (American)....32 bruxie (Belgian)............................................... 47

blk earth sea spirits (Steak)............. 45 bruxie (Belgian)............................................... 47 duke’s (Seafood)..............................................44 market broiler (Seafood)....................... 45 old world (German)...................................40 SANDY’s hb (American)................................. 34 Sealegs wine bar (California)............... 36 sessions deli (Sandwiches)..............................47

THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)..................... 45

slater’s 50/50 (Brew Pub) . ...................... 36

darya (Persian).................................................40

solita (Mexican) . ...........................................44

din tai fung (Chinese)................................ 38

25 degrees (American)................................ 34

eat chow (American)....................................32

lemonade (Quick Bites)............................... 47

playground (American)............................. 34

mama d’s (Italian)........................................... 42

San clemente

moulin (French)...............................................40

MRK Public (Gastropub)............................... 36

mozambique (South African).....................40

SEAL BEACH

watertable (American).............................. 36

OAK GRILL (California)..................................... 36

320 MAIN (American)...................................... 34

ecco ristorante (Italian)........................ 41

ZIMZALA (American)....................................... 36

pizzeria mozza (Italian)........................... 42

Stanton

golden truffle (French).........................40

IRVINE

provenance (California)............................. 36

Il garage (Italian).......................................... 41

habana (Latin)................................................ 43

AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Brazilian)........ 45

Red o (Mexican)................................................ 43

Park ave (American)......................................32

HAMAMORI (Japanese)................................... 42

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

The ritz prime seafood (Seafood)... 45

TUSTIN

holsteins (American)..................................... 32

Bistango (American)......................................32

ROYAL thai (Thai)..........................................40

BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood).....................44

IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian)........................ 41

Clay oven (Indian)........................................40

SAPORI (Italian)................................................. 42

J.T. Schmid’s (Brew Pub) .............................. 36

Leatherby’s (American)...............................32

Cucina Enoteca (Italian).......................... 41

sessions Deli (Sandwiches)...................... 47

union market (Food Halls)....................... 47

MARCHÉ MODERNE (French)......................40

Il Fornaio (Italian)........................................ 41

SOL COCINA (Mexican)..................................44

THE WINERY (California)................................ 38

MARrakesh (International)..........................40

lemonade (Quick Bites)............................... 47

SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).................................44

Zov’s Bistro (Mediterranean)................... 43

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Entertainment Holidays

Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map

O.C. BREW HO HO! Dec. 5. 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

H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 61-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

CRUISE OF LIGHTS Dec. 17-23. Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee “Music in Paradise” boat tours harbor homes. Call for prices. 16889 Algonquin St., Huntington Beach, 714.840.7542, cruiseoflights.org Map C1 SAWDUST WINTER FANTASY Through Dec. 20.

Sawdust Festival grounds are transformed into a winter wonderland; 175 artists display and 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

Musicals Danced Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo presents the United States premiere of Choré, featuring music by composers including John Cage and Danny Elfman and choreography by artistic director JeanChristophe Maillot. The company’s programs, in an exclusive West Coast engagement, take place Feb. 11-13 at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Of epic scope, the full-length ballet casts a fresh and provocative light on Hollywood musicals by setting their evolution against a turbulent historical backdrop. Also in the center’s dance series is the return of the Irish celebration Riverdance Jan. 1-3 and of American Ballet Theatre’s version of The Nutcracker Dec. 10-20. p. 52

Theater A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 27. 35th 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 A SNOW WHITE CHRISTMAS Dec. 2-27. An interactive musical for fairy tale fans of all ages. The British holiday tradition mixes classic tales, magic and pop songs. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 THE MADWOMAN IN THE VOLVO Jan. 3-24. A comedic tale of debauchery unfolds as women going through menopause decide to turn their midlife crisis into midlife madness. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 ACT 3 Jan. 6-31. A long-married couple hold secrets from each other, then the secrets collide. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 RED Jan. 22-Feb. 21. Play focuses on the nature of art and artists. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 PINOCCHIO Feb. 5-21. Four actors play all the roles to tell the story of the misbehaving puppet on his way to becoming a real boy. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13

Music + Dance HONDA CENTER Dec. 5 Chicano Soul Legends.

Dec. 16-21 Disney on Ice presents Frozen. Dec. 22 Mötley Crüe. Jan. 16 Janet Jackson. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES Dec. 3 Brian Young Band.

Dec. 10 Lights and the Mowgli’s; Gone South.

Dec. 12-13 Eli Young Band. Dec. 17 Brian Young Band.

Dec. 20 Ciara-Jackie Tour. Jan. 9 Sweet Tender Hooligans. Jan. 23 Big Head Todd and the Monsters.

Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.2583, houseofblues.com Map I10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Dec. 4-5 Men Alive.

Dec. 12-24 Festival Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker. Dec. 21. Canadian Brass. Jan. 3 National Theater Live: Jane Eyre. Jan. 12 NTL: Shakespeare, Coriolanus. Jan. 14

Index

Holidays..............................52 Shopping Destinations...55 Theater................................52 Golf Courses......................57 Music + Dance..................52 Active Outdoors..............57 Sports...................................52 Nightlife...............................58 Attractions.........................53 Tours + Transport.............59 Museums...........................55 Tickets................................ 60

Hutchins Consort. Jan. 15 JazzReach and the Metta Quintet. Jan. 16 Mathemagician Arthur Benjamin. Jan. 22-23 Cirque Alfonse. Jan. 24. Mozart Classical Orchestra. Jan. 30 Backhausdance. Feb. 4 Organist Cameron Carpenter. Feb. 6 Hawaiian music, Keola Beamer and Henry Kapono. Feb. 19 Jessica Lang Dance. Feb. 21 Mozart Classical Orchestra. Feb. 25 Guitarist Meng Su. Feb. 27-28 Farruquito. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall Dec. 10-20 American Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker. Dec. 5 Vocalist Diana Krall. Jan. 1-3 Riverdance.

Jan. 19-24 Musical If/Then. Feb. 2-7 The Illusionists. Feb. 11-13 Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, Choré. Feb. 17-March 6 Wicked. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Dec. 3-5 Pacific Symphony. Dec. 6 Pacific Symphony, Handel’s Messiah. Dec. 8 Pacific Chorale. Dec. 11 Millenial Choirs and Orchestras. Dec. 12 Orange County Youth Symphony Orchestra. Dec. 13 Los Angeles Philharmonic. Dec. 15 Composer/violinist Mark O’Connor. Dec. 18-19 Pacific Symphony. Dec. 20-21 Pacific Chorale. Dec. 22 Pacific Symphony. Dec. 23 Fiesta Navidad. Dec. 28 Male a cappella Straight No Chaser. Jan. 7-9 Pacific Symphony with Violinist Cho-Liang Lin. Jan. 10 Pacific Symphony.

Jan. 16 Orlando Consort, silent film The Passion of Joan of Arc. Jan. 20 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Jan. 22-23 Cinema/theater/concert Nufonia Must Fall. Jan. 24 The Beach Boys. Feb. 4-6 Pacific Symphony. Feb. 6 Pacific Symphony, Pirates of Penzance. Feb. 7 Pacific Symphony.

Feb. 12-13 Pacific Symphony with vocalist Bernadette Peters. Feb. 18, 20 and 23 Pacific Symphony, Turandot.

Feb. 24 Russian National Orchestra with pianist Yuja Wang. Samueli Theater Jan. 14 Dilijan Chamber Players with Armen Guzelimian. Feb. 11-14 Jazz octet the Hot Sardines. Feb. 19 Tetzlaff Trio. Feb. 20-21 Pero (The Mysteries of the Night). 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Jan. 8 The Peking Acrobats. Jan. 27 St. Louis Symphony. Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, soka.edu Map E6

Sports HONDA CENTER Dec. 2 Anaheim Ducks vs. Tampa Bay Lightning. Dec. 4 Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks. Dec. 6 Ducks vs. Pittsburgh Penguins. Dec. 11 Ducks vs. Carolina Hurricanes. Dec. 27 Ducks vs. Philadelphia Flyers. Jan. 3 Ducks vs. New York Jets. Jan. 6 Ducks vs. Toronto Maple Leafs. Jan. 8 Ducks vs. St. Louis Blues. Jan. 10 Ducks vs.

Detroit Red Wings. Jan. 13 Ducks vs. Ottawa Senators. Jan. 15 Ducks vs. Dallas Stars. Jan. 17 Ducks vs. Los Angeles Kings. Jan. 20 Ducks vs. Minnesota Wild.

Jan. 29-31 Professional Bull Riders. Feb. 2 Ducks vs. Sharks. Feb. 5 Ducks vs. Arizona Coyotes. Feb. 21 Ducks vs. Calgary Flames. Feb. 24 Ducks vs.

Buffalo Sabres. Feb. 26 Ducks vs. Houston Oilers.

Feb. 28 Ducks vs. Kings. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11

KISS frontmen Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons now have two O.C. interests: LA KISS arena football at Honda Center (714.462-KISS) and Rock & Brews in Buena Park (714.266.0314).

ALICE BLANGERO

NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE Dec. 16-20. Some 100 decorated vessels large and small cruise the harbor for the 107th annual event, “Deck the Hulls With Bows of Jolly.” Newport Harbor, 949.729.4400, christmasparadeboats.com Map N14

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Attractions + Museums 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. $14.95-$28.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BALBOA FUN ZONE The zone is shrinking. Remaining rides include the Ferris wheel. Su-Th 11 am-6 pm; F until 9 pm, Sa until 10 pm. Pay per ride. 600 E. Bay Ave., Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach Map N15

Come discover the beauty of Anaheim Hills Golf Course. We

welcome visitors to enjoy the incredible value of daily tee times and pristine course conditions – all nestled right in the heart of Orange County, located just minutes from Disneyland.

Escape today and take advantage of our FREE Rental Club Offer, New Nike VRS Series Rental Golf Clubs, for a savings of $30.00!

Play like the pros, or at least test drive the clubs they use. It’s on us!

To redeem offer, book your round through your hotel concierge. www.AnaheimHillsGC.com | Phone (714) 998-3041 Anaheim Hills Golf Course | 6501 Nohl Ranch Road | Anaheim, CA

A UNIQUE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EXPERIENCE Weekend Dinner and Champagne Brunch Cruises

BIG AIR TRAMPOLINE PARK Bounce off the walls: 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, other buildings 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 and live shows in science center and Julianne Argyros Showcase Theater.

Through Jan. 3 Science of Gingerbread and Hot Wheels: Race to Win. Opening Feb. 6 Dora and Diego—Let’s Explore!

Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95-$17.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s first theme park celebrates 60th anniversary with nighttime spectaculars including “Paint the Night” parade along Main Street, U.S.A., diamond decor for Sleeping Beauty Castle and “Disneyland Forever” fireworks show. Enhancements to Matterhorn, Peter Pan’s Flight and Haunted Mansion attractions, too. Call for hours.

Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $93$99, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Park marks Disney’s diamond 60th anniversary. Soarin’ Over California; California Screamin’; Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. “World of Color—Celebrate!” water-and-light show tells Walt Disney’s story. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $93-$99. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre pedestrian promenade adjacent to Disney parks offers dining, shopping, cinema and nightlife, including House of Blues, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and ESPN Zone. More than 1,000 plants at the new Starbucks create a giant coffee cup. Non-gated, free admission. 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10

$5 OFF * ANY DINNER OR BRUNCH CRUISE

HORNBLOWER.COM (800) ON-THE-BAY NEWPORT BEACH MARINA DEL REY LONG BEACH SAN DIEGO SAN FRANCISCO BERKELEY NEW YORK * Valid for up to 6 adults in Marina del Rey & Newport Beach. Terms and conditions apply. Not valid on holidays or special events.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/16. Use code WHR5D

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 FULLERTON ARBORETUM O.C.’s largest botanical garden; 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 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

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Attractions + Museums KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions; Voyage to the Iron Reef is new. Premier collection of coasters includes GhostRider and Xcelerator. Camp Snoopy for younger children. Call for hours and prices; under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map G 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

Orange County’s Coastal-Chic Boutique

MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Lipizzaner stallions, swordsmanship and falconry, four-course feast. Plus Medieval Torture Museum. $36.95-$61.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 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 ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK Huge in-progress park. Tethered-balloon ride, $5-$10, under 18 free with accompanying adult. Carousel, $2. Farmers market, Su 10 am-2 pm. Sand Canyon Avenue at Interstate 5, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 ORANGE COUNTY ZOO Rustic zoo; animals of the Southwest. Audio tours available. M-F 10 am3:30 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 Swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard Spanish galleon replica. Call for hours. $36.95-$59.95, under 3 free.

7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8 PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Interactive miniature city for children from infant to 8 years old.

Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm; M until 1 pm. $12.50. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900 Map D5 RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM Closed for renovations. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.983.9120 Map A4 ROCKREATION Indoor climbing facility with instruction at all levels. M-Th noon-10 pm; F noon9 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $11-$16. 1300 Logan Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.556.7625 Map J12 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 SHERMAN LIBRARY & GARDENS Intimate botanical collection features 10 gardens. Library research center. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. Library open M-F 10:30 am4 pm. $1-$3, under 12 free. Free on Mondays. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261 Map M16 SKY HIGH SPORTS Fun center features 360 degrees of trampoline walls; free-bounce, dodgeball and AIRobics. $12 per hour. Call for hours. 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5867 Map J13 THRILL IT FUN CENTER Indoor family-fun center features laser tag, rock climbing walls, ropes course and mechanical bull. Open M-Th 10 am-9 pm; F-Sa 10 am11 pm; Su 10 am-8 pm. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. West, Orange, 714.937.1600 Map J11 THE TRIANGLE Dining and entertainment destination. Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, nightclub Sutra, Starlight Triangle Cinemas plus La Vida Cantina, Saddle Ranch Chop House and Black Knight Gastro Lounge. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map K12

Newport Coast | Laguna Niguel | Laguna Beach Irvine | Brea | San Juan Capistrano www.shopblueeyedgirl.com VINCE • JOIE • FREE PEOPLE • HUDSON JEANS • BCBG • STEVE MADDEN • BAILEY44

Puccini’s opera masterpiece

Turandot

Feb. 18, 20 & 23, 2016 Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Carl St.Clair, conductor • Eric Einhorn, stage director Tamara Mancini, Turandot • Marc Heller, Calaf Elizabeth Caballero, Liu • Hao Jiang Tian, Timur

(714) 755-5799 • PacificSymphony.org PACIFIC SYMPHONY PROUDLY PERFORMS AT

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Shopping 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. 3 Modern Twist: Contemporary Japanese Bamboo Art. Through Feb. 21 The Red That Colored the World. Opens Dec. 12 Popul Vuh: Watercolors of Diego Rivera. 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. 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. 17 David Ligare: California Classicist; The Canyon Project: Artivism. Opens Feb. 21 Helen Lundeberg: A Retrospective; Frederick Hammersley: Works on Paper From the Permanent Collection. 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

8telier

MUZEO Intimate exhibition space on Center Street Promenade. Through Jan. 24 King Tut: Wonderful Things From the Pharaoh’s Tomb. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$10. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10

Beautifully curated, 8telier store brings New York and Parisian modern aesthetics.

ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART California modern and contemporary art. Through Feb. 28 R. Luke Dubois; Sandow Birk: American Qur’an; Olga Lah: Amass and Swell; The Pacific Project: Khvay Samnang.

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

Shopping Destinations

Corona del Mar Plaza 924 Avocado Avenue Newport Beach

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

8telier.com

BELLA TERRA Striking Italian-themed open-air center features Whole Foods Market, REI outdoor-sports

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Shopping 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, Kiehl’s Since 1851 and Kelley’s Kookies. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, 714.990.2733 Map A3 BUENA PARK DOWNTOWN More than 1 million square feet of retail, dining and entertainment near Knott’s Berry Farm. 8308 On the Mall, Buena Park, 714.828.7722 Map G8 THE CAMP Green-oriented enclave for outdoors enthusiasts includes eco department store SEED People’s Market and intriguing dining options including Taco Asylum, Ecco and Vitaly. 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa Map J13 CORONA DEL MAR PLAZA Boutiques include Gail Jewelers, Jack’s Surfboards and new 8telier.

Other draws: Savory Spice Shop, 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 One-millionsquare-foot retail, entertainment and dining destination.

Denim Lab; Bowlmor bowling lounge; fledgling Union Market food and shopping vendors; Pinot’s Palette— color me wine! Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.9090 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex includes House of Blues, Build-A-Bear, Studio Disney 365 and Ridemakerz. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 (See Attractions.) Map I10 FASHION ISLAND Elegant open-air center with anchors Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom; also Burns 1876 western wear and Letarte swimwear. Sushi Roku and Bonobos for men’s apparel are new. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15 5 POINTS PLAZA Neighborhood center offers Loft, Vans, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Charming Charlie jewelry, Cloudmover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi. The dogfriendly local favorite even has a barking lot! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 714.841.0036 Map D2 IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER Moorish-themed entertainment-retail center includes nation’s most visited movie complex, Nordstrom and Macy’s and lots of restaurants. Giant Ferris wheel visible from freeways. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 THE LAB Indoor-outdoor venue with youth-skewed boutiques. Shops include Urban Outfitters and Eye Society; dining includes Habana and Gypsy Den. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 NEWPORT COAST SHOPPING CENTER Small center in posh neighborhood includes Jeanni Champagne, Blue Eyed Girl, the Passionate Collector and Zov’s Café.

21101-21185 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.2535 Map L17 THE OUTLETS AT ORANGE Includes DKNY, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, 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 New. Spanishstyle storefronts with ocean views. Stores include H&M, Calvin Klein and Nike. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, outletsatsanclemente.com Map south of F6

Laguna Beach

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

Event Calendar

December 4, 2015, 5pm-9pm | Hospitality Night 949.494.1018; lagunabeachchamber.org Downtown Laguna Beach twinkles brilliantly with holiday lights, shopping, food/ drink, music, ice skating, entertainment, Santa, and much, much more! Forest Avenue and surrounding streets become pedestrian-only for this annual community event.

January 6-31, 2016 | U.S. premiere of Rita Rudner in ACT 3 949.497.2787; lagunaplayhouse.com Old enough to know better?

But still young enough to want more? That’s a dangerous combination for a couple of a certain age. They’d been together for longer than most marriages. She thought she understood him. He, of course, was quite sure she didn’t.

Because he had a secret. But she had a secret too. An even bigger one than his. What happens when secrets collide?

February 10-February 14, 2016 | Laguna Beach Music Festival 949.715.9713; lagunabeachmusicfestival.com Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County hosts the Laguna Beach Music Festival, bringing outstanding classical and contemporary music to Laguna Beach annually since 2002.

VisitLagunaBeach.com

Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry

352 N. Coast Hwy. 949.715.0953 adamneeley.com Acclaimed jeweler Adam Neeley brings art to fine jewelry. Offering distinctive, everyday styles, custom engagement rings, and one-of-a-kind couture jewelry.

CA Surf N’ Paddle 689 S. Coast Hwy. 949.497.1423 casurfnpaddle.com

Surf and paddle board rentals, lessons and sales.

Private, semi-private and group lessons available.

Located steps from the beach. Free parking.

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Golf THE SHOPS AT MISSION VIEJO From Aveda to Z Gallerie, plus Nordstrom and Macy’s; freeway adjacent. 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, 949.364.1832 Map E6 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Highlights include Design Within Reach showroom for midcentury modern, Surfas Culinary District and new LCA Wine. OC Mix features 30 vendors—quirky retail such as the Mixing Glass cocktail supply shop as well as hip Portola Coffee Lab. 3303-3323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12 SOUTH COAST PLAZA “The Ultimate Shopping Experience” is a state tourist destination. Marquee retailers include Christian Louboutin and, in stunning new quarters, Chanel and Valentino; Céline and Charlotte Olympia are recent adds. Macy’s Home Store, West Elm and Crate & Barrel in Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13 WESTFIELD MAINPLACE Indoor million-square-foot center offers Macy’s, Nordstrom and 190 boutiques and shops; a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball court and open-air swimming pool is new.

2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13

Golf Courses

GET TICKETS!

(855)-4TMZ-TOUR

OR

TMZTOUR.COM

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

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MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views abound at 18-hole course. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort 50 Monarch Beach Resort Drive North, Dana Point, 949.240.8247 Map J16 NEWPORT BEACH GOLF COURSE Contoured executive course offers night play. $13-$27. 3100 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.852.8681 Map L15 OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bull-nose carved bunkers and picturesque greens on Tom Fazio 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 courses reopened after a two-year renovation as part of 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 Eighteenhole course; rolling greens, picturesque canyon, wetland vistas, county’s longest hole. M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D5 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 WBStudioTour.com

AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in actual highperformance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing, riders have control in the air. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2

WINTER 2016 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 57 098814.01_WB_2015_Q3_Print_MidwestCart_WhereMag_OneThirdPage_MECH ROUND #: MECH Trim: 4.625” x 4.875” Bleed: N/A Live:N/A Color Space: CMYK Fonts: Frutiger & ITC Avant Garde Gothic Pub: Where Magazine PM: LC AS: JW AD: VM ACD: VM/CD SA: JR Date: 07/09/15 Loaded Date: 07/10/15

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Nightlife 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 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 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 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 opencockpit 1930s biplane. Includes recorded DVD. 230 Dale Place, Fullerton, 866.484.7455 Map A2

Nightlife A&O Balboa Bay Resort unveils waterfront Anchors & Oceans, specializing in craft beers, specialty cocktails and gastropub fare. 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 BAMBÚ Lounge for light dining or nightcap; live entertainment. Fairmont Newport Beach, 4500 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.476.2001 Map D4 BARLEY FORGE BREWING CO. New. Costa Mesa’s first-ever commercial production brewery is bustling!

Five-taster flights; barbecue on weekends. 2957 Randolph Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.641.2084 Map J13 BLIND RABBIT Speakeasy with 1920s atmosphere hidden behind wall at Anaheim Packing House. Don’t like your drink? Your server will finish it! 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, theblindrabbit.com Map H10 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 COLONY WINE MERCHANT Tasting lounge and wine retailer celebrates Anaheim’s wine history. 280 S. Lemon St., Anaheim, 657.208.1860 Map H10 COSTA MESA 55 TAVERN + BOWL State-ofthe-art bowling alley with 10 lanes and sports viewing.

The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.438.2320 Map K12 THE DISTRICT LOUNGE Retro spot near Newport Pier has 100-foot mahogany and copper bar. Orange location is in original 1920s post office. 121 McFadden St., Newport Beach, 949.673.4470; 223 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.639.7777 Map N13, C4 FLOE LOUNGE Smart and chic inside-outside venue with seaside-meets-city vibe. Communal tables and games. Irvine Marriott Hotel, 18000 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.254.5725 Map J14 HEAT ULTRA LOUNGE Vegas-style club near Disneyland. Th-Sa. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.4328 Map I10

RECREATION & SENIOR SERVICES DEPT. presents Family, group & Private

surf Lessons

NEWPORT SURF CAMP 866-Surf-CAMP newportsurfcamp.co

m

ENDLESS SUN SURF

949-533-1022 endlesssunsurf.weebl y.com

surf newport now

949-505-5500 surfnewportnow.co

m

For more information on surf lessons and to see the array of amazing camps, classes and programs the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department has to offer, visit the department website at newportbeachca.gov/recreation

newportbeachca.gov 949-644-3151

recreation@newportbeachca.gov

HOPSCOTCH Huge whiskey list, 75 craft beers, creative cuisine inside 1918 Pacific Railway Station. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.871.2222 Map A3

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Tours +Transport HOUSE OF BLUES Touring bands, dancing, outsider art and soul food. Rafter-raising gospel brunch on alternate Sundays. Call for schedule. Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.2583 Map I10 IRVINE IMPROV Top comedy. Two-item minimum; Umami burgers. Irvine Spectrum Center, 572 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5 LOLA GASPAR Hip bar and kitchen; Drink the Damn Medicine paired shots (e.g., bourbon and pickle brine).

Open until 2 am M-Sa, Su until midnight. 211 W. Second St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13

ne Buy o et g hour ond a sec ree! f r hou

MESA Small plates and cocktails at hip and stylish lounge with retractable glass roof. Open until 2 am Tu-Sa. The Camp, 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 Map J13 MULDOON’S DUBLIN PUB Cozy spot with courtyard; fun Irish-themed events in the Celtic Bar. 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 Map L15 PALAPA BAR Tropical drinks outdoors at Hotel Ménage—with view of Disneyland fireworks! 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.758.0900 Map I10

The Next Generation of Trampoline Parks

Buena Park (844) 550-5867 Laguna Hills (949) 305-9788

Must show this ad to receive discount. Limit two jumpers per coupon. Discount valid for general admission first hour of jump only.

Valid thru 2/26/16. Offer valid weekdays Monday-Friday. Not valid with an y other promotions or discounts. Prices and hours subject to change without notice.

Code: WHERE15

ROOFTOP LOUNGE Hot spot for sunset cocktails on wraparound patio with panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15 THE SPEAKEASY Hidden on cobblestone street at Old World Village; beer, wine and affordable small plates. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.899.3279 Map C2 SUTRA LOUNGE Club with cool decor, musical acts and big-name deejays. Open Th-Sa. The Triangle, 1870 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

Tours + Transport 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 REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INTERMODAL CENTER (ARTIC) New. 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 ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) Shuttles cover 19 routes with transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk and Anaheim Convention Center.

Purchase passes online, at Amtrak station and select hotels. 888.364.2787, rideart.org CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Dolphin and whale-watching excursions aboard catamaran. Departures daily. $35-$59, under 1 free. 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

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Tours +Transport 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 Map N15 CITY PASS Includes discounted admission to Disney theme parks and admission to others in L.A., 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

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.

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 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

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

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 OCTA Orange County Transportation Authority buses. $2; day pass $5, 75 cents for 60 and older, under 5 free.

Exact change. 714.560.6282, octa.net SUPERSHUTTLE Transportation to and from all SoCal airports around the clock. Groups and charters welcome.

310.222.5500; 800.258.3826, supershuttle.com TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Bus with state-of-the-art audio/video explores celebrity haunts and scandal sites. $53-$63. Starline Tours, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868

Tickets 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., No. 108, Huntington Beach, 714.848.1632 Map D2

where?

Log on anywhere.

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Blue Eyed Girl boutique at Newport Coast Shopping Center.

949.640.2206

The Day of the Dead skull mural at Urbana, new at Anaheim Packing House. p. 32

Accessories for men at new Heron Haberdashery in Corona del Mar. p. 24

Paddleboarding with CA Surf ’n’ Paddle in Laguna Beach. p. 58

Whale-watching with Dana Wharf Whale-Watching and Sportfishing in Dana Point. p. 60

The Thriller cocktail at Mesa in Costa Mesa. p. 43

New COS, from the team behind H&M, at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. p. 57

The new Outlets at San Clemente. p. 56

Appetizers on the oceanview patio at Las Brisas in Laguna Beach. p. 43

Hiking at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in Laguna Niguel. 949.923.2200

Vietnamese Sticky Wings at new MRK Public gastropub in San Clemente. p. 36

Acrobatic and circus classes at SwingIt Trapeze in Anaheim. 877.979.4644

The chashu-pork sandwich at The Trough, new on Balboa Peninsula. p. 47

Green-tea latte at new Urth Caffé in Laguna Beach. p. 9

The Sapori pizza at Sapori Ristorante in Newport Beach. p. 42

Beach football games with Beach City Sports in Huntington Beach. 949.502.1413

New Vitra Eyewear at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. p. 10

A round at Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine. p. 57

Pork belly four ways at new Grits in Fullerton. p. 32

New “World of Color— Celebrate!” at Disney California Adventure. p. 53 Nitro Meringues at Holsteins Shakes and Buns at South Coast Plaza. p. 32 Yoga pants at Yogasmoga at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. 949.721.9642

The Mad Men Style cocktail at Social in Costa Mesa. p. 12 The Ritz 55 cocktail at The Ritz Prime Seafood, new in Newport Beach. p. 8

The lip glosses at Para Mi at Westfield MainPlace in Santa Ana. 714.248.0901

where in the world

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,

The agate-topped bar at The Winery in Newport Beach. p. 38

Surf City Nights Tuesday night street fair in Huntington Beach. 714.733.3167 Wine Wednesday at 25 Degrees in Huntington Beach. p. 34 The wildlife tour at Rancho Las Lomas in Silverado Canyon.

949.589.7900 The free Laguna Beach Trolley along Coast Highway. p. 60

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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WHERE WHEREORANGE ORANGE COUNTY COUNTYSHOPS SHOPS FREE GIFT: FREE GIFT:

Visitors receive a free giftgift andand save hundreds Visitors receive a free save hundreds with thethe Traveler Priveleges Card. of dollars with Traveler Priveleges Card. of dollars GetGet yours at the Security Office near Macy’s. yours at the Security Office near Macy’s.

Must present an out-of-town I.D., I.D., Passport, or hotel room key.key.

Must present an out-of-town Passport, or hotel room

OVER 200 SHOPS, RESTAURANTS AND EATERIES TOTO CHOOSE FROM OVER 200 SHOPS, RESTAURANTS AND EATERIES CHOOSE FROM

LOCATED JUST MOMENTS AWAY FROM ORANGE COUNTY’S TOPTOP ATTRACTIONS, LOCATED JUST MOMENTS AWAY FROM ORANGE COUNTY’S ATTRACTIONS, THETHE CENTER IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE ON ART ROUTE 19 SANTA ANAANA LINE, OR DIRECTLY OFFOFF THETHE 5, 555,AND 22 FREEWAYS. CENTER IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE ON ART ROUTE 19 SANTA LINE, OR DIRECTLY 55 AND 22 FREEWAYS. 28002800 N. MAIN STREET | SANTA ANA,ANA, CA 92705 | 714.547.7800 | WESTFIELDTRAVELCOLLECTION.COM N. MAIN STREET | SANTA CA 92705 | 714.547.7800 | WESTFIELDTRAVELCOLLECTION.COM

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