WHERE Orange County Magazine Spring 2017

SPRING 2017 SOCALPULSE.COM

Orange County

®

BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED New House of Blues in Anaheim Alice + Olivia boutique in Newport Beach Shh! LSXO in Huntington Beach

Great Gardens

BOTANICAL RETREATS, A SCULPTURE GARDEN AND EVEN A NURSERY

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where orange county

spring 2017

CONTENTS

departments

the guide

4 Editor’s Note

32 DINING Restaurants categorized by cuisine

Gardens of delight.

6 Hot Dates

48 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports

House of Blues marks its 25th anniversary with a new location at Anaheim GardenWalk.

50 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, cultural venues and exhibitions

64 30 Things We Love

where now

52 SHOPPING The county’s major retail destinations

8 Dining X these in! Mix Mix in Santa Ana and LSXO, hidden within Bluegold in Huntington Beach.

53 GOLF The most beautiful and most interesting courses

10 Shopping

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

8

South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa and Fashion Island in Newport Beach both turn 50.

COASTAL SHOPPING & DINING 300

SHOPS

&

11 Exhibits

58 NIGHTLIFE Hottest clubs, lounges, bars and wine bars

Dressing Downton showcases Downton Abbey costumes and jewelry at Muzeo in Anaheim.

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

spring 2017 soCalpulse.Com

Orange County

CITY TOURS

®

RESTAURANTS

Because you’ve arrived

Enjoy coastal views from Fashion Island in Newport Beach with over 150 world-class stores, acclaimed dining and

mplimentary personal shopping assistance available. AND...Irvine Spectrum Center, in the heart of Orange County,

where visitors discover Southern California’s ultimate outdoor shopping, dining, lifestyle and entertainment center.

VINE SPECTRUM CENTER hop I rv i neS p e ct r u m Ce nte r.co m

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

NORDSTROM

NEIMAN MARCU S

TARGET

BLOOMINGDALE’S

ANTHROPOLOGIE APPLE FOREVER 21 H&M H URLEY/NIKE SB L’OCCITANE

NORDSTROM APPLE

TOMMY BAHAMA CAPITAL DIM SUM SEAFOOD JAVIER’S P.F. CHANG’S

AND MOR E ...

Sushi Roku general manager Eiji Mori

B CBG MAX AZRIA

LOU IS VU ITTON LULU LEMON

EDWARDS CINEMA

Shh! LSXO in Huntington Beach

ELIE TAHARI

NIKE WOMEN

ROV COMEDY CLUB

Alice + Olivia boutique in Newport Beach

ANTHROPOLOGIE

LULULEMON MAX S T UDIO QUIKSILVER

18

New House of Blues in Anaheim

ROLEX TRI NA TU RK U RB AN DECAY VICTORIA’S SECRET

Metro Cities The Coast South Coast North County

22 24 26 28

VINCE RED O MEXICAN CUISINE BY RICK BAYLESS SU SHI ROKU AND MORE ... ©2017 The Irvine Company LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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

Great Gardens

Botanical retreats, a sculpture garden and even a nursery

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ON THE COVER Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. Photo

by Benjamin Ginsberg.

See feature on p. 12.

features 12 Bloom Service The great gardens of Orange County include an arboretum, a sculpture garden and a nursery. BY KAT NGUYEN-DE ANGELIS

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The Marketplace

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Segerstrom Center for the Arts

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE

18 Generally Speaking A look at three of the county’s finest restaurant general managers —with menu recommendations. BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

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

The Triangle

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To Outlets at San Clemente

MIX MIX, TALIA SAMUELS. MORI, COURTESY SUSHI ROKU

OVER

White Negroni at Mix Mix Kitchen + Bar

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The Ultimate Shopping Experience

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

San Diego FWY (405) at Bristol St., Costa Mesa, CA SOUTHCOASTPLAZA.COM 800.782.8888

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VISIT

W YLAND

welcome a note from the editor

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

B E AC H

HOME OF THE WORLD’S PREMIERE MARINE LIFE ARTIST

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

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

www.wyland.com

Our cover story focuses on Orange County’s great gardens, several of which have onsite dining venues.

Dining venues with onsite great gardens deserve equal attention—which leads to Kathryn Agresto, who has been designing gardens for some of the county’s best chefs and mixologists for a decade. Her first project was

Kathryn Agresto’s biggest challenge? “Keeping the chef inspired,” says the county’s foremost designer of edible gardens for restaurants. “Inspired, motivated and excited.”

Follow Wyland

VLADIMIR PERLOVICH

GARDENS OF DELIGHT

Park Ave in Stanton, whose elaborate raised beds proved so popular that owner David Slay opened a second restaurant, Il Garage, so diners could look out onto them. Agresto is also responsible for the gorgeous edible garden at the Montage Laguna Beach, whose herbs, fruits, vegetables and flowers are used at Studio dining room, for cocktail garnishes and in spa treatments. Her patio garden at Provenance in Newport Beach, along with chef-owner Cathy Pavlos’ cooking, is nothing short of the main attraction. Agresto has also created home-kitchen gardens for chef/restaurateur/cookbook author Zov Karamardian, food writer/cookbook author Cathy Thomas, and Bluewater Grill co-owner Jim Ulcickas.

Now she turns her attention to two innovative shopping and dining destinations. At the Camp in Costa Mesa, she has created a food forest beneath the pine trees and nine raised boxes in the parking lots, one for each of the center’s eateries. At Center Street Promenade in Anaheim, she has installed planted window boxes and orange troughs for restaurants such as vegan destination Healthy Junk. Her biggest challenge? “Keeping the gardens looking aesthetically beautiful while you’re cutting and using them daily,” Agresto says. “Oh, and keeping the chef inspired.” See Bloom Service on p. 12, our dining listings on p. 32 and our shopping listings on p. 52. The county is yours for the picking. —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, Katherine Nguyen-De Angelis

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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 © 2017 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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WHERE CALENDAR SPRING 2017 Search the full calendar at SoCalPulse.com

DATES

APR. 23 HOUSE OF ROCK

Kicking off a yearlong 25th anniversary celebration, the country’s first new House of Blues in a decade has opened at Anaheim GardenWalk. The venue more than doubles the size of its nearby former location and offers live music nightly in four spaces: the concert hall, where the Pixies, above, perform; the more intimate Parish; the Foundation Room, offering a VIP experience; and the restaurant and bar, featuring soulful comfort food with a twist. Folk art and sculptures are displayed throughout; look for the massive steel water tower atop the roof. p. 48

7

GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED

1 FESTIVAL OF WHALES > MAR. 4-5, 11-12 The 46th annual event celebrates the migration of the California gray whale with a parade, street fairs, concerts and crafts. Dana Point Harbor, 949.496.1045, festivalofwhales.com

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

2 POP ART DESIGN > THROUGH APR. 2 Exhibition examines inspirations and crossreferences between art and design that continue to shape our society today. 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach 949.759.1122, ocma.net 3 FINDING NEVERLAND > MAR. 21-APR. 2 Musical tells the story of the inspiration for and creation of J.M. Barrie’s beloved classic, Peter Pan. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org

4 ANGELS OPENING DAY > APR. 7 For its first home stand, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim take on the Seattle Mariners through Apr. 9. Angel Stadium, 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com 5 NEWPORT BEACH FILM FEST > APR. 20-27 About 350 feature films, documentaries, shorts and animation as well as parties and sessions with directors; locations TBD. Newport Beach, 949.253.2880, newportbeachfilmfest.com 6 LIONEL RICHIE, MARIAH CAREY > MAY 10 The multiplatinum-selling artists tour together for the first time. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com 7 DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL > MAY 20-21 Blues, rock and R&B on three stages. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, dohenybluesfestival.com

FOOD THAT SINGS! TWO COSTA MESA RESTAURANTS OFFER MUSIC-INSPIRED PRIX-FIXE MENUS.

LEATHERBY'S CAFE ROUGE The sophisticated spot inside the concert hall at Segerstrom Center for the Arts offers fanciful three-course meals themed to the musicals onstage across the plaza.

New chef Greg Stillman’s pre-theater dinners are tailored to Finding Neverland Mar. 21-Apr. 2—its Peter Pan-inspired Dream the Dream dessert features a chocolate nitro sphere, banana, peanut butter and hazelnuts— and An American in Paris Apr. 25-May 7, no doubt featuring French-inflected fare. 615 Town Center Drive, 714.429.7640.

MESA Chef Niki Starr considers her four-course Chef’s Tables on Tuesdays as music in food form, meals where she endeavors to express pop culture on a plate (below).

The musical themes change monthly. Recent dinners, which can be paired with alcohol, have been inspired by David Bowie, Prince and Adele. March events at the hip spot are pegged to Biggie Smalls; in April to Talking Heads; and in May to Frank Sinatra.

The Camp, 725 Baker St., 714.557.6700.

D D A E

COURTESY HOUSE OF BLUES ANAHEIM; ANGELS BASEBALL; 100EATS.COM

HOT

Top Stops

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where now orange county

THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, ATTRACTIONS, SHOPPING AND DINING

DINING

EXTRA ORDINARY The “LS” in LSXO—the intimate Saigon-inspired restaurant hidden within new Bluegold restaurant—stands for Little Sister, the first of nine projects from Jed Sanford and chef Tin Vuong. Doesn’t matter whether the “XO” stands for “extra ordinary,” as the general manager believes, or “XO sauce,” the chef’s favored cognac concoction: Both work. Follow the butterflies on the ceiling to an unmarked door. Inside, find servers in black eveningwear, seductive décor and 50 dishes, including imperial rolls with shrimp, crab, pork, taro root, glass noodle, roasted peanut and chili-lime sauce; bo kho with marrow, tendons, oxtail, rib meat, baguette, butter and pate; and peanut butter & jelly cheesecake. The coolest cocktail: the two-bamboo-straw Cool Runnings in a golden pineapple goblet. What can we say? XOXO! p. 42

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At Mix Mix: crispy duck leg and, right, Smoked and Oaked cocktail

OPPOSITE, SIMON NICHOLLS. MIX MIX, TALIA SAMUELS

the country's first

A GLOBAL MIX Little Sparrow in Santa Ana flew high, attracting national attention, but its flight was brief. Now the space has a worthy successor: Mix Mix Kitchen + Bar. Ross Pangilinan, one of the county’s least-known best chefs, was seven years at sophisticated Leatherby’s Café Rouge at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Here he offers globally inspired fare: tuna poke toast with avocado, seaweed and radish; house-made chitarra “carbonara” pasta with dried shrimp, guanciale, poached egg and ikura; and a hanger steak with “loaded” potato espuma, shallot marmalade and peppercorn sauce. A pair of dishes honor his own roots: a Filipino ceviche with yellowfin tuna, coconut lime, avocado, pork cracklings and Thai chili, and the Tropical Verrine dessert, a take on the Filipino halo halo. The not-to-be-missed cocktail: the orange-hued Silly Rabbit, with Arette Reposado tequila, vanilla Madagascar liqueur, Thai chile-carrot syrup, lemon-lime juice, cloves and mezcal misting. p. 36

Fare TRADE Anchored by Ootoro Sushi, which has already gained a reputation for its superlative omakase experiences, the highly anticipated TRADE Food Hall near John Wayne Airport rolls out its other tenants.

Several come from successful local restaurateurs testing new concepts.

Chef Andrew Gruel of acclaimed Slapfish curates

two of the eight concepts, offering grilled and fried chicken at Two Birds and vegetarian fare such as sweet-potato-mushroom burgers and kimchi at Butterleaf. Hop Phan, known for his food trucks, opens a second Dos Chinos, known for its Vietnamese-Mexican fare, and a new fusion concept, Megadon for Hawaiian-

Japanese. Also opening: Portside for seafood, Gyro King for Greek, the Center Hub bar, Sweet Comforts for innovative desserts, and a second location of The Sandwich Society for edgy artisan constructs such as bubble-waffle sandwiches. The communal dining area features indoor-outdoor seating and a fire pit. p. 42

Sweet Comforts

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WHERE NOW / orange

county

Several looks at AG Adrianno Goldschmied.

Left: Alice + Olivia’s Love Dove and interior

SHOPPING

Fifty Years Young Fashion Island in Newport Beach begins its 50th year with the launch of two boutiques: the county’s first Alice + Olivia, known for its feminine and whimsical apparel, and, next door, denim brand AG Adriano Goldschmied.

Alice + Olivia’s 35th U.S. location offers its complete line of ready-to-wear, gowns, shoes and accessories; the clean décor is punctuated with one-of-a-kind vintage pieces and artwork. The brand’s fans include Angelina Jolie, Katy Perry, Drew Barrymore and Gwyneth Paltrow.

The AG store features more than 350 styles for men and women, notably the Green Label collection of trendy men’s golf apparel and sportswear. With its custom millwork and fixtures, the boutique has the same look and feel as its Beverly Hills flagship. p. 52

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY Commemorating South Coast Plaza’s 50th anniversary, Gucci unveils the very-limited-edition Sylvie Top Handle Bag in red jacquard; only 25 will be made ($2,890). Other luxury brands at the Costa Mesa center will follow suit with exclusive merchandise collaborations and special exhibits throughout the anniversary year. The

release of the Sylvie bag also coincides with the reopening of the Gucci boutique featuring a new design concept by the company’s creative director, Alessandro Michele.

Other marquee boutiques launch presently, among them Dior Homme, Stella McCartney, Aquazzura and Gianvito Rossi. South Coast Plaza opened March 15, 1967. p. 52

Gucci’s limitededition Sylvie in red jacquard

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EXHIBIT

Downton Anaheim Dressing Downton: Changing Fashion for Changing Times, at Muzeo through May 7, showcases costumes and jewelry from Downton Abbey, one of the world's most widely watched television dramas.

Viewers can follow their favorite Masterpiece characters from upstairs or down— i.e., nobles or servants—to chronicle the fashions of the period. Admission is by timed entry, museum hours have been extended, and high tea is available for the show's duration. The intimate museum is housed in the historic Carnegie Library. p. 52

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Bloom Service Great gardens of Orange County

By K AT NGUYEN-DE ANGELIS

Orange County’s natural beauty is hardly limited to its breathtaking coastline. It is also home to an array of stunning gardens as diverse as botanical retreats, sculpture gardens, even retail nurseries that are attractions in their own right. One doesn’t need be a gardening enthusiast to appreciate these venues—even the most staunch urbanist will savor these reprieves from routine. Make a day of it: Start with a garden, then enjoy a meal and shopping onsite or nearby.

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Roger’s Gardens 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road Corona del Mar 949.640.5800

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Fullerton Arboretum 1900 Associated Road Fullerton 657.278.3407

California Scenario Commissioned by the late Henry T. Segerstrom, the mogul behind South Coast Plaza and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, California Scenario in Costa Mesa is artist Isamu Noguchi’s homage to California landscapes. The 1.6-acre sculpture garden —also known as the Noguchi Garden—is a cultural treasure hidden in plain sight among Town Center’s glass office towers.

The garden is both minimalist and dramatic. Its centerpiece, The Spirit of the Lima Bean, is a 12-foot grouping of large interlocking stones, a nod to the area’s agricultural roots. The genesis of those roots lay with Segerstrom’s grandfather; Henry was the visionary who transformed the land.

That work is just one of the installation’s constructs. The others are Forest Walk, Land Use, Desert Land, Water Source, Water Use and Energy Fountain. Water elements throughout the space lend themselves to peaceful meditation; all elements lend

themselves to photography.

After replenishing your spirit, you can replenish your body at any of a number of superior restaurants within walking distance.

Enjoy steaks at Mastro’s, the back of which looks out onto the garden; tapas and paella at Top Chef alum Amar Santana’s Vaca; and seafood at beautiful new Water Grill.

South Coast Plaza adds 40 more dining options—and hundreds of boutiques, among them new Webster, CH Carolina Herrera and Les Parfums Louis Vuitton and SoCalcentric Vans footwear and SC Trojan Town.

Roger’s Gardens Can a retail nursery be a visitor destination?

That certainly seems to be the case at Roger’s Gardens. Visitors come by the busloads—literally—to see what the high-end retail center has on display each season, especially during holidays.

It’s easy to spend half a day strolling through the 7-acre grounds, which features fresh floral stations, a whimsical gift shop, fascinating designer fountains and, of course, creatively designed gardens for those seeking inspiration for their own backyards.

Roger’s Gardens is even more of an attraction since its new Farmhouse restaurant opened. Helmed by local veteran chef Rich Mead, the spot is open for lunch and dinner, offering field-to-fork dining using locally sourced ingredients as well as wine, craft beers and cocktails.

Opposite, Benjamin ginsberg

Sherman library and gardens This horticultural haven, relatively intimate at 2.2 acres, is right on Coast Highway in Corona del Mar, but for a small sign hidden in plain sight. It was a nursery before it was established in 1955; now it describes itself as a museum of living plants.

The flora and fauna from around the globe are seasonal, but the venue, known for its flower beds and hanging baskets, seems to be in constant bloom. Botanical collections range from the desert plant life of the Cactus and Succulent Garden, a hipster’s backyard dream, to the Tropical Conservatory, which displays orchids, heliconias and gingers in all their island glory; stop and smell the cattleya! Hummingbirds zip by at close range. Nearby are staghorn ferns and koi.

Culinarians appreciate the herb garden, where they find chocolate and orange mint plants as well as society and tricolor garlic.

No surprise that the garden’s al fresco Café Jardin makes good use of those vibrant herbs in “coastal garden” versions of crepes and fresh-baked pastries. Afternoon tea is offered on the second and last Wednesday of the month—fresh scones, housemade strawberry jam, lemon curd and sweet

butter, plus finger sandwiches—with a picture-perfect floral backdrop, of course.

The gardens are midway between picturesque Little Corona Beach and Corona del Mar Plaza—where new Baker & Olive offers charcuterie, flavored olive oils, balsamic vinegars and anything else you might need for a picnic. Also at the center: GLO Nail Bar, where one of the luxe mani-pedi services include a foot bath with champagne and rose petals.

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Sherman Library and Gardens 2647 E. Coast Hwy. Corona del Mar 949.673.2261

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California Scenario 611 Anton Blvd.

Costa Mesa

Those looking to shop might check out a quartet of new boutiques at nearby Fashion Island: Alice + Olivia for women, AG for premium denim essentials, Rodd & Gunn for men’s blazers and footwear and Robert Talbott for upscale suits.

Fullerton Arboretum On what was once an ailing orange grove at Cal State Fullerton is Fullerton Arboretum, the county’s largest botanical garden with 4,000 plants, many of them unusual, on 26 acres. Wide trails flanked by ponds and streams take visitors through four distinct plant collections: cultivated, woodlands, Mediterranean and desert (whose cactus flowers bloom in spring). Areas of special interest include a subtropical fruit grove and the native plants of Thorn Forest; among recent additions is a wildflower exhibit.

On weekends, you can take a guided tour or visit the 1894 Heritage House at the cen-

ter of the venue. Surrounded by flower and vegetable gardens—of course!—the cottage was built by Fullerton’s first physician.

Now it’s a museum of turn-of-the-century county history. A windmill and outhouse were added along the way to better portray life at that time.

The arboretum offers classes as diverse as home composting, pruning of roses and cooking with local ingredients.

Nearby Summit House is a fine-dining landmark known for its impeccable service and outstanding prime rib. You’ll find oodles more dining options—and vintage clothing boutiques—in downtown Fullerton.

UCI Arboretum The UCI Arboretum is UC Irvine’s 12.5acre botanic garden and research facility (Campus Drive and Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.824.5833). Its initial focus on South African plants in the 1970s expanded to

Secret Garden at Huntington Beach Central Park The good volunteers of the Huntington Beach Tree Society have turned a neglected community garden into one of the county’s coziest sanctuaries (18000 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, 714.564.1396).

Immaculate granite paths and scenic river-rock dry streams lead through a small collection of trees, succulents and other drought-tolerant plants. Though its name implies that it might be concealed or hard to access, it’s not: The nearly acre-long plot is right behind the Huntington Beach Public Library and ideal for reading a book on a bench amid the flora.

Speaking of benches, the Park Bench Café, a family-owned eatery also in Huntington Beach Central Park, offers breakfast and lunch. Dogs are welcome; owners can order for them from the Canine Cuisine menu.

On the coast, not far, is Pacific City, a sleek new retail and dining destination.

You can shop at Sephora and H&M; dining options range from fast-casual standouts such as Burnt Crumbs and Bear Flag Fish Co. to chef-driven fare and cocktails at new Bluegold.

Courtesy segerstrom family archives

include endangered plant species and a wealth of exhibits spotlighting what is known as California’s floristic province; those include Baja California, the Channel Islands, native grasslands and wildflowers, the Mojave Desert and the more obscure Maritime Succulent Scrub and Otay Mesa.

The venue continues to boast one of the finest collections of African wild flowering bulbs and aloes anywhere.

Nearby University Center offers dozens of fast-casual destinations, notably Adya for new takes on Indian street food, Mendocino Farms for creative sandwiches and new Spoletto for design-your-own pasta.

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Generally

speaking The general managers of a restaurant seem to do everything—and they do it all to ensure that their guests’ experience is a good one.

By BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

“General managers are the unsung heroes”

of the restaurant industry, says Lee Healy.

“They have to be generalists.”

As a consultant to South Coast Plaza, Healy, of Lee Healy Marketing Communications in Newport Beach, interacts regularly with about 40 general managers, and she has other restaurant clients as well.

“They’re so busy coordinating employees, guest relationships, menus, marketing, managing profitability, ensuring guests have a great experience, inventories, hiring, firing, all employee relationships, compliance with state mandates….” Let’s not forget payroll, stocking the bar and training staff.

“Some things they can delegate, but the buck stops with them,” Healy says. “That’s a lot of accountability.”

Ghali Benhima Vaca Benhima’s resume includes a Moroccan restaurant in Orlando, Fla., and a Spanish restaurant in Atlanta. He joined the Vaca Group as dining room manager at Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach; Santana was Top Chef runner-up last season.

When Moroccan-born Benhima heard that Vaca was going to open in Costa Mesa, he recalls, “I said, ‘Sign me up!’ Spanish cuisine, especially tapas, is my favorite concept. I grew up going to Spain with my parents—we spent a few weeks every summer in Spain.”

Benhima still travels a lot; at home, he enjoys paddle-boarding. Both activities fall

right in line with his management philosophy.

“The pursuit of happiness,” he says. “Do whatever it takes to be happy at work.

“I spend 12 to 15 hours a day here. People ask how can I do it? I say, because I make it fun. When they see me here, they say I don’t seem like I’m working. That’s my motto: Be happy. Take 15 minutes if I need to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.”

His worst day on the job? “I have had no bad day.” Every day is his best, he adds.

Vaca is on the street level of an office building near South Coast Plaza. “Two of our regulars have a law firm upstairs,” Benhima shares. “They come Monday through Friday, every day, at noon for lunch, then around 4 for a drink before heading home. One is half French, so we talk French. We drink Pastis.

He loves opera so we put on opera. This is not something he can get anywhere else.

“At a corporate restaurant, they don’t let you change the music,” he notes. “They don’t let their GM have a drink with a guest. We have that freedom to make our guests feel at home. Here, it’s totally freestyle.”

In addition to tapas, Santana’s menu features house-made charcuterie, paellas, 50-day aged steaks and superb cocktails including the popular Vaca Tonic.

Benhima recommends > warm Spanish octopus, with fingerling potatoes, pimentón and Spanish olive oil, and seafood paella, with clams, mussels, shrimp, octopus and saffron Bomba rice made with lobster broth.

Clockwise: Vaca general manager Ghali Benhima; seafood paella; warm Spanish octopus.

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Kenyon Paar Five Crowns, SideDoor Paar comes to Five Crowns and SideDoor gastropub, together housed in an English inn replica in Corona del Mar, with a quartercentury of experience, most recently leading teams at nearby Fig & Olive and the Ritz Prime Seafood. Five Crowns, in turn, has been revered for its prime rib for 50 years.

“At Five Crowns, we have a legacy to protect and to bring into the future,” Paar notes, and effective management principles are key.

For Paar, those start with her team.

“If you maintain a happy staff, if they’re well educated and well compensated, that translates directly to a positive guest experience,” she says.

“If you give people the tools they need, there are fewer fires to contend with. If

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you make sure your staff is confident and comfortable in their role, that they have the tools they need to execute what you expect of them, they just go out there and do their thing—it’s seamless. They can engage, be personable and build relationships.”

And when there are fires to contend with?

“You just roll up your sleeves and pick up the slack to support the team,” Paar says.

“If that means scraping plates, and boxing to-gos, then that’s what I do.

“They ultimately are the brand ambassadors. They are going to make or break the guest experience and our future as a restaurant. Take care of them, they take care of the guests—and the rest takes care of itself.”

SideDoor offers much-elevated pub fare— blackened-scallop po’ boy, charcuterie and prime-rib chili. In addition to its signature dish, draws at Five Crowns include crispy artichoke hearts, King crab legs and steaks— and a side of Yorkshire pudding is a must.

Paar recommends > Jidori chicken pot pie at SideDoor—”the puff pastry is so delicate and light!”—and prime rib at Five Crowns, perfected, she says, “over 72 years of making prime rib exactly as it should be.

We have people working in the heart of the house for more than 25 years—they’re the only ones allowed to touch that prime rib.

It’s truly sacred.”

Eiji Mori Sushi Roku Mori is general manager and sake sommelier at Sushi Roku’s Newport Beach location. Stylish, sociable, passionate and compassionate, it’s hard to imagine a better figurehead. “I like to eat, I like to drink—that’s why I got into this restaurant business,” Mori says. “And I get to meet 300 or 400 people a day.”

Mori has been in the industry for 20 years; he was at Katana in West Hollywood before Sushi Roku opened at Fashion Island.

He grew up in Japan. His first job in America was as a busboy; that he hadn’t studied formal English in school had its consequences. “I went up to the table to clear, smiling, making eye contact, and I say, ‘Can I take that s**t?’ The GM almost fired me. He explained that I can’t use that word!”

Now a GM himself, Mori works about 12 hours a day, five days a week—and devotes an additional day to computer work. Asked what he does on his day off, Mori says, “I like to go dining out—try new restaurants!”

As for his best day and worst day at Sushi Roku, Mori says, “The best day happens all the time—every day. Meeting people who say your food is amazing, your service is impeccable, that makes my day. And believe it or not, that happens…every day.

“The worst day? That’s a good question.

Staff no-shows? I don’t look at that as a worst

day—it happens. If they have a family emergency, they still make it to work, they’re still doing the best job and I find out later they didn’t tell me—that’s my personal worst day.”

According to Mori, his management style is inspired by omotenashi, Japanese hospitality.

“When I went back to Japan, I went to a hot springs; they took great care of us,” he explains. “When they welcome us to the hotel, everybody is waiting for us, everybody bows, everybody knows our names. When we leave, everybody is bowing the entire time, they wait until they don’t see us. This is to make people happy—they don’t expect the return of it.

“I hope I can convey that spirit of hospitality to our waitstaff,” Mori says. “How do I make them understand that? That is what I am searching for. You can teach how to open the wine. You cannot teach how to care, to serve from your heart. That is the biggest challenge.”

Sushi Roku offers an extensive menu of hot and cold appetizers, robata skewers, sushi and sashimi, entrees cooked over Japanese bincho charcoal and a stunning Zen S’mores dessert.

Mori recommends > Blue crab tartare with uni and truffle—”unforgettable,” he says—and the five-spice-braised short ribs: “Secret menu, always available.”

PAAR, COURTESY FIVE CROWNs. mori, courtesy sushi roku. PREVIOUS SPREAD, SARAH KING

Clockwise from top left: Blue crab tartare and Eiji Mori at Sushi Roku; Jidori chicken pot pie at SideDoor, and Five Crowns/ SideDoor’s Kenyon Paar.

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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. Fifty years later, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. The statedesignated tourist attraction has the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers. The Stella McCartney boutique is new. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and, across Bristol Street, Vaca, from Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana, and new Water Grill.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Santa Ana

Arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Grand Central Art Center. Places such as new El Mercado Modern Cuisine and Mix Mix Kitchen + Bar make for an exciting dining scene. Find a dozen innovative fast-casual dining concepts at 4th Street Market. The bar scene—we favor Lola Gaspar—is burgeoning, too. The East End also features the Yost Theater concert venue. Historical highlights include the Queen Anne-style home of Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle, and the Old County Courthouse, a setting for numerous movies.

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

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

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

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

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Giant Wheel at Irvine Spectrum Center.

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

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

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

Irvine

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

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

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

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

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

Tustin

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

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

G R E AT F I N D

venue Pinot’s Palette, a cineplex, and bowling at Bowlmor. Union Market offers an eclectic collection of dining concepts and retailers.

The nearby iconic twin hangars are 1,000 feet long and 17 stories tall.

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

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

For bold items, see the where guide listings.

For neighborhood maps, see page 63.

/ good jeans

➺

Soft fabrics, high quality and cool styles are the watchwords at Johnny Jeans, tucked away in charming Old Towne Tustin yet considered by many fashionistas to be one of the county’s best boutiques. In addition to designer jeans from brands such as Denimocracy and Paige, the store also offers casual clothing, handbags, accessories and footwear for women, notably Michael Stars laser-cut tops, Mickey & Jenny Lou cardigan tops, Tart Xena coats, Karen London necklaces, Kim White ring clutches (left) and Free People booties. 403 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.665.2408, johnnyjeans.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 shopping destination Fashion Island, now marking its 50th year. The AG Adrianno Goldschmied and Alice + Olivia boutiques are new. Dining options include Sushi Roku and Red O. Island Cinema offers leather seats and wine service.

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

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

Newport Beach has the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, on Coast Highway, is lined with restaurants including The Winery, The Ritz Prime Seafood and Pizzeria Mozza and luxury-car showrooms.

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

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

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

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

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

Balboa

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

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

famous bodysurfing and bodyboarding spots.

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

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

The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum has transformed itself into ExplorOcean.

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

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

Corona del Mar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Picturesque Little Corona Beach is just south.

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

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

Huntington Beach

Surf City USA is more sophisticated of late.

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

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

Newport Beach Civic Center.

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

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

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

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

g r e at f i n d

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

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

For bold items, see the where guide listings.

For neighborhood maps, see pages 62-63.

/ bali high

➺

A 1920s beach-city cottage in the stretch known as Sunset Beach has for nearly a decade housed Cleobella, an airy boutique offering leather goods and bohemian-style fashions.

The owners work directly with artisans on the island of Bali to make distinctive handbags using locally sourced natural leathers, hand tooling, recycled metals and limited-edition textiles as well as clothing, jewelry and other accessories. Also featured are resort wear and pillows from Thailand, clutches from Mexico and a colorful line of children’s clothing. 16792 14th St., Huntington Beach, 562.310.2911, cleobella.com

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EXPLORING

South Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Main Beach gets action year-round.

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

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

Dana Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Juan Capistrano

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point.

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

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

San Clemente

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

From the pier, the sun sets across the blue

G R E AT F I N D

➺

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

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

For bold items, see listing in the where guide.

For neighborhood maps, see page 63.

/ gorjeous

Carried at more than 1,000 boutiques around the world and 200 major retailers, Gorjana jewelry now has its own boutique in Laguna Beach, where the 13-year-old line began. The pieces are simple, understated, lightweight and timeless—some of designer Gorjana Reidel’s very first pieces remain popular. They do well as layering (necklaces) or stacking (silver rings) pieces; top sellers also include gold cuffs and rose-gold earrings. Honoring the milestone, she and her husband, co-founder Jason Reidel, launched 190 Beach, a gemstone-inspired collection named for the shop’s address. 190 Beach St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8166, gorjana.com

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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 Anaheim

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buena Park

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

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

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

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

OLD TOWNE, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; DISNEY, IDRIS ERBA; ARTIC, DHRUMIL DESAI. GREAT FIND, SAVANNAH KAEFER

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.

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New ARTIC in Anaheim.

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

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

Orange

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

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

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

Big kids go for The Outlets at Orange, where draws include high-end discount retailers Neiman Marcus Last Call, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th and new Nordstroms Rack.

Families fall like pins for bowling alley Lucky Strike Lanes and flock to Vans Skatepark.

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

Fullerton

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

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

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

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

G R E AT F I N D

Linda is the birthplace of Richard Nixon.

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

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

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

For bold items, see listings in the where guide.

For neighborhood maps, see page 61.

/ killin’ it

➺ Find rockabilly fashions for men and bohemian and pinup styles for women at Roadkill

Ranch & Boutique, a destination in downtown Fullerton that also offers accessories and novelty gifts. It began nearly a quarter century ago, selling vintage clothing and its own line of leather jewelry. Today, men come for Pendleton wool board shirts, Sun Records T-shirts and Suavecito pomade. Women might pair the wiggle-style Diva dress with the Sweet Cherry necklace and, left, the Marie, a retro-inspired shoe made exclusively for the store by Jeffrey Campbell. 119 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.773.1156, roadkillranch.com

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

South Coast Plaza Village

(714) 751-7153

3800 South Plaza Drive Santa Ana, CA 92704

www.antonello.com

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South Coast Plaza

(714) 754-0300

3333 Bristol St #1201 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.quattrocaffe.com

South Coast Plaza

(714) 557-5232

3333 Bear St. #2887 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.antonello.com

1/26/17 2:30 PM

where

the guide SPRING 2017

PERFORMING ARTS

Center Stage

CAROL ROSEGG

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa offers a spectacular trio of musicals this season. Finding Neverland, Mar. 21Apr. 2, starring Christine Dwyer, left, tells the story behind playwright J.M. Barrie’s inspiration for Peter Pan. An American in Paris, Apr. 25-May 7, is about an American soldier, a French girl and an indomitable city set to Gershwin songs. In the romantic thriller The Bodyguard, opening May 30 and based on the Oscarnominated film, a former Secret Service agent is hired to protect a superstar from a stalker; songs include “I Will Always Love You.” p. 50

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THE GUIDE | DINING

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

L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 3334 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 $$$ Map N13 ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Distinctive fare—e.g., crab cones, venison shank—and excellent cocktails amid striking decor; garden terrace with fire “tornadoes.” L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4 ARC Chef Noah Blöm’s “flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine (e.g., pig with black beans, maple and herbs) amid rusticapothecary decor. Butcher’s Love for four may be O.C.’s best steak; superb cocktails use house-made everything.

L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12 BABETTE’S Stylish outpost of East Hampton eatery with lovely courtyard. Organic farm-to-table fare, veganvegetarian options, juice bar, cold-pressed-juice cocktails.

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

Light in the Lantern District

In the 1920s and ’30s, the Blue Lantern Fountain Lunch served as a cafe and service station for Pacific Coast Highway travelers between Los Angeles and San Diego. Nearly a century later, Dana Point is itself a destination, and Coastal Kitchen is serving New American coastal cuisine in the city’s oldest commercial building. Standouts on chef Andrew Palma’s menu include the Parker House rolls; ginger-glazed and braised pork-belly bites; fried-Brie salad (above); a cioppino of panseared scallops, sautéed shrimp, jumbo lump blue claw crab, Manila clams and PEI mussels; and braised short ribs with roasted Brussels sprouts. Start with a Marmalade Sour cocktail; end with the elaborate S’mores Pie. Owners Michael and Christina Grant come from Houston’s and Gulfstream. p. 32

BACK BAY BISTRO Snazzy spot overlooking Back Bay at the Dunes with retractable roof. Cancun-style shrimp cocktail, Kobe beef sliders, New York steak au poivre. L, D (W-Sa); Br (Sa-Su). Newport Dunes, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.1144 $$ Map M14 BAD TO THE BONE “Real-pit BBQ” (brisket, tri-tip, pulled pork), blackened catfish, mesquite-fired steaks amid cowboy ambiance. L, D (daily). 31738 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.0227 $$ Map I17 BANDERA Perennially popular. Iron-skillet cornbread; wood-fired rotisserie chicken or wood-grilled prime tritip; and banana cream pie. D (nightly). 3201 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.3524 $$ Map M1 BAYSIDE New American fare at stylish spot ideal for exec lunches, romantic dinners, lazy brunches. Live jazz. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.1222 $$$ Map M1 THE BEACHCOMBER Historic cottage on the sand at Crystal Cove State Park. Prime flat iron steak with wildmushroom-and-truffle mac; Gimme S’mores! Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Los Trancos lot shuttle. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 THE BLIND PIG Creative fare (e.g., bone marrow with octopus, fennel, black garlic) and top cocktails lakeside.

L, D (Tu-Su). 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.0072 $$ Map east of D6 BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Original spot of Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana. (The other is Vaca in Costa Mesa.) Creative “cuisine of the Americas” and great cocktails. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234 $$$ Map H15 THE CELLAR Cheese shop—a fantastic selection—plus wine bar and excellent restaurant with live music and dog-friendly patio. D (T-Su). 158 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663 $$ Map south of F6 CHAPTER ONE: THE MODERN LOCAL Librarythemed spot is always a page-turner, and “culinary cocktails” add intriguing plot twists. The latest: Chef Jason “Chicken Wang” Montelibano is back! L, D (daily). 227 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.352.2225 $$ Map H13 CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery offers rotisserie chicken, baby-back ribs, six-layer Motherlode Cake and its own craft beer. Happy hour daily. L, D (daily); Br

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

index American................................. 32 Brewpubs/Gastropubs.......34 California.................................34 Chinese.................................... 35 Continental............................. 35 Eclectic.....................................36 Food Halls................................42 French.......................................36 International...........................36 Italian........................................ 37

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

(Su). Seven locations include South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.8479; 190 S. State College Blvd., Brea, 714.529.9061; 2250 E. 17th St., Santa Ana, 714.836.6658 $$ Map J13, A3, G14 CITIZEN KITCHEN Sports bar meets urban lounge meets grilled Spanish octopus, Prime N.Y. strip bibimbap and way-over-the-top Beast Burger with duck, foie gras, pork belly, etc., etc. L, D (daily). Hotel Fullerton, 1500 S. Raymond Ave., Fullerton, 714.635.9000 $$$ Map A3 COASTAL KITCHEN “New American coastal cuisine” in city’s oldest commercial building, now Spanish Revival.

Ginger-blazed and braised pork-belly bites; cioppino; braised short rib. L (F-Su), D (nightly). 34091 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.449.2822 $$ Map A3 DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE Creative twists on American classics extend to excellent happy hour and brunch fare (e.g., crab-cake Benedict, bananas Foster French toast).

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

Whole Santa Barbara uni with hamachi and sea-urchin vinaigrette; foie-gras-stuffed Mary’s Chicken and morels. Cozy-edgy Stateroom Bar. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.715.7700 $$ Map I15 EAT CHOW “Chowified” fare includes Southern, French, Mexican and Cuban favorites. B, L, D (daily). 1802 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.2469; 211 62nd St., Newport Beach, 949.423.7080 $$ Map K12, N12 FARMHOUSE New. Rich Mead (Sage, Sage on the Coast) is back with a field-to-fork-inspired café at Roger’s Gardens—and it’s a big hit, especially with the lunching ladies. L, D (daily). 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar, 949.640.1415 $$$ Map L16 HOPDODDY One of “the best burgers in America,” says Food & Wine; we like the K-Town Belly. L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2337; 3030 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.505.2337 $$ Map L15 JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR Chic New American bistro and wine shop showcases local fare and innovative cocktails. Chef Daniel Hyatt adds an elaborate weekday social-hour menu (3-6 pm). L (M-Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map J13 LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE Chic affair inside stunning concert hall presents new chef Greg Stillman, cutting-edge cuisine and special Broadway-themed menus.

Ideal for pre-performance. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13

The Ranch in Anaheim has a farm nearby; the Ranch at Laguna Beach—no relation!—uses its onsite orchards and half-acre garden at Harvest. p. 34

COURTESY COASTAL KITCHEN

american

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DINING LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ Burgers, bánh-mì buns and bouillabaisse in a lighthouse-shaped harbor-view restaurant in Marina Park. Start or end any meal with the beignets. B, L, D (daily). 1600 W. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.933.1001 $$ Map N14 LILLIE’S Q Outpost of Charlie McKenna’s Chicago spot brings his national-competition-winning ribs, other Southern fare and moonshine cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 240 S. Brea Blvd., Brea, 714.482.2001 $$$ Map A3 MEMPHIS Southern, Cajun-Creole and Southwest dishes in a hip retro setting. Start with gumbo or the pulled-pork sliders. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (SaSu). 2920 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.7685 $$ Map J13 NICK’S Polished spin on classic American bar and grill fare; lively bar scene. L, D (daily). 440 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.8595; 213 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.481.2200 $$$ Map H15, south of F6 OLD CROW SMOKEHOUSE Chicago-style barbecue, moonshine cocktails and live country music on weekends at new Pacific City. It feels cavernous but isn’t. Beach and pier views. L, D (daily). 21022 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.536.0381 $$ Map N9 OLD VINE CAFÉ Regional and seasonal; a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple French toast, beef-tongue panini or any of several ever-impressive fourcourse tasting menus. B, L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 PARK AVE Creative renditions of classic American fare use house-made/home-grown specialties. Most produce grown on premises; visit the garden! Architecture is Googie, decor midcentury retro. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 PAUL MARTIN’S AMERICAN GRILL Restaurateur Paul Fleming serves mesquite-grilled items amid dark woods and balsa-wood chandeliers include Castroville artichoke, chimichurri chicken, dry-aged heirloom Duroc pork porterhouse. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.453.1144 $$ Map D5 PLAYGROUND add a line about playgroun 2.0 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 tritip. D (daily). 220 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 PLUMS Casual but fine dining in a strip mall, popular for Pacific Northwest-inspired breakfasts—and Dutch Baby deep-dish pancakes B, L (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 369 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7586 $$ Map M13 THE QUIET WOMAN Cozy, very pricey local fixture serves sophisticated comfort food such as center-loin swordfish and baseball-cut steaks. The busy bar is open from lunch to close. 3224 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.640.7440 $$$$ Map M16 RAINFOREST CAFE Creative decor, animatronics and special effects bring the rain forest indoors; dine among lightning storms and wild animals. Expansive menu; kids’ menu. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10 RALPH BRENNAN’S JAZZ KITCHEN Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo YaYa, bananas Foster. Beignets at Jazz Kitchen Express; romantic dining upstairs; casual meals downstairs. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.776.5200 $$ Map I10 RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ One of the county’s best restaurants serves O.C.’s best breakfast on the covered patio of an 1881 house next to the train tracks in the historic Los Rios district. B, L (Tu-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17

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DINING

Cocktails at Harvest, new at the Ranch at Laguna Beach

SKYLOFT Rooftop venue atop historic building serves up popcorn crawfish, spicy chopped salad, brisket sandwich and All-In barbecue platter amid highway/ocean views.

Local brews, live music. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 422 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1550 $$ Map I16 SOCIAL Hip spot offers intriguing cuisine and superb cocktails near the Triangle. Wood-fired oysters; fried cauliflower; Akaushi-beef Drive Thru Burger; wagyu tritip. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.2425 $$ Map K12 STONEHILL TAVERN Michael Mina’s urbane ode to New American dining in shimmering room at Monarch Beach Resort. D (Tu-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3318 $$$ Map J17 TEMPO URBAN KITCHEN Jorge Cueva dreams up imaginative dishes such as short-rib tacos with Guinness mole and abuelita chocolate tortilla. New executive chef: Cody Storts (Grits). L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 1060 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.529.2900 $$ Map A3

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

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

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

THE ROYAL HEN New. Tim Goodell (Aubergine, Troquet) is back with a gastropub; signature dish is chicken pot pie. D (T-Su). 3311 Marine Ave, Newport Beach, 949.873.5603 $$ Map M15 SIDE DOOR Superb spot shares replica of England’s oldest inn with landmark Five Crowns. Artisanal cheese, charcuterie, seasonal plates and world-class brews—plus elevated British pub fare. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322 $$ Map M16 SLATER’S 50/50 Superior brew list plus DYO Burgers.

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

California Cuisine

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

BLUEGOLD New. Sleek coastal-California eatery is the ninth from the team behind L.A.’s Little Sister. See listing under Vietnamese for its hidden restaurant-within-a-restaurant, LSXO. B, L, D (daily). 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0038 $$ Map N9

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

HARVEST New. Dining room at relaunched resort with golf and dramatic canyon views. Hamachi crudo; half Mary’s Chicken; popcorn panna cotta dessert. B, L, D (daily). The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 $$ Map I16

TOMMY BAHAMA Grill shares the boutique’s island mind-set. Coconut Cloud Martini, Lobster Cove grilled cheese; baby-back ribs; and piña colada cake. L, D (daily). Corona del Mar Plaza, 854 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949.760.8686; 400 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.6886 $$ Map L15, H15

K’YA BISTRO BAR Chef Craig Connole has created more than 50 small plates for lively spot inside historic La Casa del Camino Hotel; sharing is encouraged.

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

TULSA RIB CO. Local mainstay. Tempura artichoke hearts, Cajun or Caribbean baby-back ribs, Tulsa potatoes, profiteroles. The patio is ideal for people-watching over a glass of Chianti. L (M-F); dinner (nightly). 220 E. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.633.3760 $$ Map B4

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

25 DEGREES Foodie-friendly design-your-own-burger and wine bar with speakeasy 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

OAK GRILL New chef Peter Lai (Watertable), new menu. Fifty wines by the glass. Shares huge patio with Aqua Lounge. Slow Smoked Sundaze barbecue Sundays.

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

WATERTABLE Restaurant and “gastro bar” in “living rooms” and on ocean-view patio. Shareable Bar Jars; honey-lavender Berkshire pork entrée. B, L, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.1234 $$ Map N9

PROVENANCE Cathy Pavlos’ wine-country-farmhouse-themed spot has elaborate patio garden. Panroasted cauliflower kung pao; S’more in a Jar dessert.

Fantastic brunch. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 531 Eastbluff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0477 $$ Map L14

WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN & CAFE California’s original soda fountain (1899). Newly hip, it retains its retro vibe; some shakes come with booze. B, L, D (daily). 116 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.363.3773 $$ Map J11

SEALEGS WINE BAR Seasonal California share plates—e.g., Pig and Fig Flatbread, Stinky Fries, bananas Foster French toast—amid Hamptons-style nautical decor. D (nightly), Br (Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.536.5700 $$ Map M9

BREWPUBS AND GASTROPUBS

SAINT MARC PUB-CAFE, BAKERY & CHEESE AFFINAGE New. Indoor-outdoor bar. Bacon bar features bacon flights. Cheese and barrel wines sold by the ounce.

B, L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington beach, 949.629.2591 $$ Map N9

HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Superlative burgers, Jidori chicken-liver toast, whole roasted suckling pig, B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680 $$ Map C4

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

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

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

and craft beers (all $5). L, D (Tu-Su). 1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.441.7621 $$ Map south of F6

MRK PUBLIC Three chefs—two from Laguna’s late Tabu Grill—offer elevated pub fare, notably Tuscan Toast, Vietnamese Sticky Wings and fried chicken sandwich,

SEASALT WOODFIRE GRILL The SeaLegs Wine Bar team channels California’s Santa Maria Valley: tri-tip steaks over red-oak coals; house-made flavored sea salts, “craft rim” cocktails. D (Tu-Su). 21214 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.804.5545 $$$ Map D2 SHADES Casual elegance, deft Cal-Continental menu and ocean views make this a popular boutique-steak and seafood destination. Lavish brunch. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Waterfront Hilton, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.8444 $$ Map N9 SPLASHES RESTAURANT AND BAR Indoors by the fireplace or on the patio steps from the sand, meals are 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

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

D (Tu-Su). Montage Resort & Spa, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 866.271.6953 $$$$ Map I16 TANGATA Lunch spot off Bowers Museum’s Missionstyle courtyard offers Pacific Rim-inflected cuisine. Spam taco, Laughing Bird shrimp salad, Korean marinated skirt steak, banana spring roll. L (Tu-Su). 2002 N Main St., Santa Ana, 714.550.0906 $$ Map G13 TANNER’S New. Pool and ocean views, fare cooked on open fire—plus stunning rooftop Treehouse Lounge with its own superb cocktail list. Poke omelet; Grape & Burrata; roast salmon with coconut forbidden rice pudding.

B, L, D (daily). Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130 $$ Map N9 URTH CAFFÉ Organic heirloom coffee destination serves wide array of items plus pastries, cakes, juices and boba drinks in landmark restored nearly century-old cottage. B, L, D (daily). 308 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 213.797.4527 $ Map H15 THE WINERY Chef/partner Yvon Goetz offers seafood, wild game, USDA Prime steaks plus cigar patios and extensive wine cellars. Tustin: L (M-F), D (nightly); Newport: D (nightly), Br (Su). District at Tustin Legacy, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600; 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.999.6622 $$$ Map D4, N13

Chinese

voted best seafood orange county i

in

CAPITAL SEAFOOD More than 100 kinds of dim sum, from pushed steam carts at lunch, plus Asian tapas, clay-pot items, tofu, noodles and congees. House-special lobster, roasted Peking duck.L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 85 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.788.9218; 2700 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949.252.8188 $$ Map D5, J14 DIN TAI FUNG Taiwan icon known for xiao long bao — Shanghai-style soup dumplings—now has venue at South Coast Plaza. New York Times included the original in its world’s top 10. L, D (daily). 3333 Bristol St. Costa Mesa, 714.549.3388 $$ Map J13 TWENTY EIGHT Modern Chinese in stylish digs. Top Chef return competitor Shirley Chung is gone. New executive chef Jay Lacuesta presents uni + bone marrow toast, Kurobuta “char siu” pork shoulder. L, D (daily). 19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.852.2828 $$ Map K14

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

Prime rib and other favorites stay. Superb SideDoor Gastropub is adjacent. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331 $$$ Map M16

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 · catalina island phoenix · coronado · temecula · carlsbad & santa barbara coming soon

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

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

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Eclectic

Taste of Mexico

EATS KITCHEN & BAR Burgers, regional specialties, winning happy hour menu. New chef Jeff Moore (Lounge Group). B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780 $$ Map D4 GOLDEN TRUFFLE Fans of chef/owner Alan Greeley overlook his bistro’s strip-mall digs in favor of his maverick approach. Wine list is loaded with labels you won’t easily find elsewhere. L (Tu-F), D (Th-Sa). 1767 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.645.9858 $$$ Map L12 MIX Hilton Anaheim executive chef Frederic Castan oversees the globally influenced menu at the strikingly redone atrium lobby restaurant and lounge and impressive chef’s table in the kitchen. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10 MIX MIX KITCHEN + BAR New. Superb chef Ross Pangilinan (Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge) opens in Little Sparrow space. Filipino ceviche; hanger steak; Silly Rabbit cocktail.

Oui Chef prix-fixe dinners. D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.836.5158 $$$ Map H13 SAPPHIRE LAGUNA Chef Azmin Ghahreman offers inspired, and globally inspired, dishes at stylish spot with excellent bar program, popular patio and gourmet pantry for takeout. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15 TRUE FOOD KITCHEN Healthful globally inspired fare in cheery room and on inviting patio with linear fire pit. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 451 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.2400 $$$ Map L15

French

Happy Hour SANTA MONICA

NEW LOCATION in

l

Weekend Brunch

La Jolla

l

NEWPORT BEACH at FASHION ISLAND OPENING SOON!

Live Music LOS ANGELES

www.redorestaurant.com

MARCHÉ MODERNE Relocated. Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia elevate the bistro experience to delicious heights. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, East Coast Highway and Crystal Heights, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map M17 MOULIN Bistro-epicerie-cafés: baguette sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, wine and beer amid French logo decor. B, L (daily until 9 pm); prix-fixe D (Tu). 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920; 248 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6990 $$ Map K13 and H15 PASCAL The latest list-topping home for venerated chef Pascal Olhats offers Pascal Experience menu—plus bakery and epicerie items, salads, sandwiches, panini, desserts, and picnics to go. B, L, D (daily). 103 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.488.0031 $$ Map I17

INTERNATIONAL IRENIA Classic Filipino dishes (e.g., adobo pork belly) elevated with unexpected ingredients in the former North Left space. Dessert and cocktails excel as well.

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

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

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DINING

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

210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000 $$$ Map A3 DHB_Where v5_102516.pdf

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ECCO Hip spots serve up sophisticated wood-fired pizzas, guanciale-pear being a fave; ricotta gnocchi with grilled prawns; sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic and chilies. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.444.ECCO; 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, eccopizza.com $$ Map J13, H10

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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

A legend Oceanfront Dining at the Pier 714.374.6446

317 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach

DUKESHUNTINGTON.COM

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

Bocce ball courts, too! L (M-Sa); D (nightly). 18051 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.261.1444 $$$ Map J14 IL GARAGE Beguiling spot from David Slay, in a garage hidden behind his acclaimed ParkAve, amid a 1924 tractor and red-checkered tablecloths; it overlooks the garden that inspires and supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 NORTH ITALIA High-decibel space with lots of glass, soaring ceiling, lively marble-topped bar and citrus-stud-

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DINING ded patio. Truffle garlic bread; squid-ink mafaldine; salted caramel budino. L (M-F), D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 2957 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.629.7060 $$ Map K14 PIROZZI Alessándro Pirozzi’s super-convivial spot offers olive fritte; speck-wrapped, wild-boar-stuffed quail; limoncello-infused taglierini; and heart-shaped Nutella pizza for two. Excellent pizzas. D (daily). 2929 E. Coast Hwy, Corona del Mar, 949.675.2932 $$$ Map M16 PIZZERIA MOZZA Culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich replicate their acclaimed L.A. and Singapore spots. Pizzas use distinctive dough.

Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel coppetta with marshmallow sauce. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.945.1126 $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Chef Justin Miller’s offers refined authentic Neapolitan fare beneath soaring arched ceilings and frescoes. New brunch (e.g. shrimp, polenta and fried green tomatoes). L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13 QUATTRO CAFFÉ Antonio Cagnolo of much-lauded Antonello Ristorante rejuvenates shoppers with stylish fare. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.754.0300 $$ Map J13

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

Specializing in fresh seafood and flavorful, seasonal dishes.

SAPORI RISTORANTE Highly regarded spot near Balboa Island. Penne otero, polenta e porcini; adjacent pizzeria. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1080 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.4220 $$$ Map N14

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

VITALY Bolognese owners 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 BENIHANA The original exhibition kitchen—at your table! Fun dining experience, fun date. L (M-F), D (nightly). 4250 Birch St., Newport Beach, 949.955.0822; 2100 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.774.4940 $$ Map K13, I10 BLUEFIN Master sushi chef Takashi Abe offers exquisite sushi and hot entrées. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Promenade, 7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.7373 $$$ 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 $$$ Map J13 NANA SAN Chef Goro Sakurai attracts a considerable and predominantly Asian clientele; there’s generally a wait by 5:15 pm, but you’ll get a call or text when your seats are ready. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 3601 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, 949.474.7373 $$ Map K13 OOTORO SUSHI New. Every bite surprises at this impressive omakase-centric spot; rare fish, a toro trio, A5+ Kobe beef plus elaborate cooked dishes. Fine-dining anchor for Trade food hall. L, D (Tu-Sa). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.222.0688 $$$ Map K13 SUSHI ROKU Gorgeous spot at Fashion Island from CalJapanese sushi pioneer. Fluke kumquat sashimi; premium tofu three ways; blue-crab tartare; Prime rib-eye steak Japonais; and spectacular s’mores dessert. Each chef gives sushi his open spin. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.3622 $$ Map L15

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

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

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DINING B, L, D (daily). 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3915 $$$ Map J17 CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR The Uva outdoor pavilion offers 40 California wines by the glass and tapas; upstairs is Catal for fine dining. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1580 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.774.4442 $$$ Map I10 FIG & OLIVE Ode to olive oil on the Fashion Island preimeter offers sophisticated fare from crostini and crudo starters to crème-brûlée cheesecake in a stunning olive tree-studded setting. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.877.3005 $$$ Map L15 LUCCA CAFE & MARKET Euro-chic bistro, deli and wine bar by chef Cathy Pavlos features artisanal and organic local ingredients; sibling to Provenance in Newport Beach. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6507 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.725.1773 $$ Map D5 MESA Chef Niki Starr Weyler oversees stylish spot. Hip scene, retractable glass roof, unisex restrooms. Ahi-tuna “tacos,” cast-iron-skillet mussels, wine-braised short ribs; superb cocktails. Music-inspired prix-fixe menus on Tuesdays. D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 $$ Map J13

LUNCH, DINNER, and SUNDAY BRUNCH Live Music Nightly!

714.776.5200

Downtown Disney® District • www.rbjazzkitchen.com

and Jazz Kitchen EXPRESS! A Taste of New Orleans TO GO BEIGNETS • PO-BOYS • GUMBO

Home Sweet Home .

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

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

Open 24 Hrs! FREE Wi-Fi!

EL TORITO GRILL Handmade tortillas, fresh salsas and mes­quite-grilled specialties. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 951 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2875; 1910 Main St., Irvine, 949.975.1220; 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.367.1567; 555 Pointe Drive, Brea, 714.990.2411 $$ Map L15, J14, G17, A3 EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE New. Acclaimed Anepalco chef Danny Godinez puts his spin on sharedplate specialties from each of Mexico’s states in a hip and comfortable space. Cesar Cerrudo adds top-notch mezcal cocktails. L (Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 301 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 714.338.2446 $$ Map H13

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

FREE WI-FI • OPEN 24 HOURS

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

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DINING HABANA Hip setting, hip clientele and nuevo Latino cuisine by candlelight. Signature dishes include paella and ropa vieja (shredded pot roast). Great patio. L, D (daily). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.556.0176 $$ Map J13 LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with superb coastal views. Snapper Veracruzana; Yucatán chicken. The popular patio has its own Seaside Menu.

B, L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15 OLA MEXICAN KITCHEN Pacific City spot offers items including surf-and-turf lobster-filet mignon taco, posole and El Rey del Salmón Agave with ocean views from nearly every seat. L, D (daily). 21040 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.969.7300 $$$ Map N9 POUR VIDA Jimmy Martinez (former chef at L.A.’s Boa Steakhouse) offers creative tacos such as pineapple skirt steak, tempura oyster and heirloom cauliflower. L, D (daily). 185 W. Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, 657.208.3889 $$ Map H10 PUEBLO Cozy, upbeat spot offers tapas—e.g., grilled Spanish octopus, pimentón potato and mojo verde—and cheese and charcuterie boards indoors and on a winning patio. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775 $$ Map D5 PUESTO New. Acclaimed San Diego spots open striking flagship at Los Olivos Marketplace. Artisanal tacos on blue-corn tortillas including zucchini-and-cactus with crispy cheese, and shrimp tamarindo; crab guacamole; don’t-miss camote & huitlacoche. L, D (daily). 8577 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.608.9990 $$ Map J12 RAYA Sophisticated fare from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree; roasted halibut with truffled boniato. B, L, D (daily). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16 RED O Sexy design with Moroccan accents, menu by Mexican cuisine guru Rick Bayless. Ceviches, guacamole tasting, lamb chops mole negro. Extensive tequila list. L, D (daily). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0300 $$$ Map L15 SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooking harbor canals offers vibrant Baja-inspired dishes by Deborah Schneider (Amor y Tacos; Salsas and Moles). Chorizo and mushrooms con queso; Hot & Raw tropical ceviche; taco Vampiro; grilled Kobe skirt steak. L, D (daily). 251 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.675.9800 $$ Map M14 SOLITA Sol Cocina spinoff offers tacos (e.g., chorizo, bacon and sweet potatoes; chili tofu; wood-grilled carne asada) and margaritas. Start with queso al forno. L, D (daily). Bella Terra, 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.894.2792 $$ Map C2 TACO ASYLUM Spot serving unusual tacos, excellent brews and small-batch soda. Bánh mì taco, corn off the cob, dessert nachos. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.922.6010 $ Map J13

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

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DINING

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enchilada; avocado split dessert; shareable cocktails; whole-roast-pig Taco Tuesdays. L, D (daily). 1535 W. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.639.9550 $$ Map I11

Seafood ANCHOR HITCH Fine-dining anchor of Union Market offers truly original decor, lobster roll, abalone panna cotta, elaborate seafood towers. Most dishes served family style; plus raw bar. L (F-Su), D (nightly).

Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.226.8949 $$ Map G17 BLUEWATER GRILL Fresh seafood selection—e.g., Australian barramundi, farm-raised Mississippi catfish—at handsome spots changes daily. L, D (daily); Br (Su). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2409 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.FISH; 630 Lido Park Drive, Newport Beach, 949.675.FISH $$ Map D4, N13 DUKE’S Hawaiian-inspired seafood, Prime steaks and infectious beach-house ambiance. Next to the pier; Barefoot Bar; endless ocean views. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 317 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.6446 $$ Map N9 HARBOR GRILL Excellent mesquite-grilled seafood, pastas, gumbos, bouillabaisse at Dana Point Harbor; consider the rosebud martini and the sustainably farmed oysters. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 34499 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.240.1416 $$$ Map J16 MARKET BROILER Mix ’n’ match fresh fish ‘n’ sauce.

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

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Seafood in majestic proportions; seafood tower; signature warm butter cake. Glass-topped grand piano in the O Bar. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 8112 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.376.6990 $$$$ Map M17 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Citified fish house offers simply prepared fresh seafood. Old-school cocktails, legendary happy hour; microbrews on tap at Irvine’s Pilsner Room. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2000 S. Main St., Irvine, 949.756.0505; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.535.9000 $$$ Map J14, I10 SHUCK Oyster bar offers meticulously shucked selections. Superb grilled cheese sandwich, seafood stew. Bubblies and brews. L, D (daily). OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.420.0478 $$ Map J12 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY Excellent seafood and steaks, oyster bar, gold-medal-winning brews. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Birch Street Promenade, 101 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.257.0101; the Market Place, 13390 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.619.0404 $$$ Map A3, C5 WATER GRILL New. Grande dame of upscale seafood destinations in downtown L.A. opens in a jaw-dropping expansion of the former Scott’s space opposite South Coast Plaza. Oyster bar, wild Tahitian bigeye tuna, wild Barents Sea red king crab, 1-pound Prime rib-eye and indulgent desserts. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 949.208.7060 $$$ Map M13

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WATERLINE “Water to table” fresh local seafood experience overlooking the harbor includes crab eggs Benedict at breakfast; halibut BLT at lunch; and scallops “Peas & Carrots” at dinner. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888.894.2788 $$$ Map M13 THE WHARF Asian-Cajun! Traditional Vietnamese flavors blend with fiery Southern spices in spacious digs with under-the-sea vibe. Crawfish mac ‘n’ cheese; Thai larb gai lettuce wraps; cook-at-the-table hot pot. 12941 Main St., Garden Grove, 714.530.1388, $$ Map J10

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DINING Grilled Spanish octopus at Citizen Kitchen in Fullerton

cocktails. L (Su-F), D (daily). Irvine Marketplace, 13772 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.209.1500 $$$ Map C5

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

VEGAN Steak AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at Brazilian steakhouse are cooked over a fire pit. Gaucho-garbed waiters offer 16 sumptuous cuts, from picanha (a sirloin specialty) to coração (delicate chicken hearts). Elaborate hot and cold bar. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1830 Main St., Irvine, 949.222.9910 $$$ Map J13 BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS Akaushi Kobe-style Prime steaks and burgers (and one Japanese Kobe) plus seafood amid whimsical and sophisticated industrial-chic decor and on O.C.’s largest ocean-view patio. L, D (daily). 300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 202, Huntington Beach, 714.960.0096 $$$ Map N9 CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant steakhouse offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Pan-fried calamari with cherry peppers; bone-in kona-crusted dryaged sirloin; ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J13 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue; prime everything. Classy feel extends to bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass. Prime rib on Sundays. Br (Su), D (nightly). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky spot offers largerthan-life portions and white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; off-the-menu crab gnocchi; and— oooh—warm butter cake. Bar offers generous cocktails, fine live music. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405 $$$$ Map J13 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Classy bastions of beef: service-plus, colossal portions. Show-and-tell menu recitation. Anaheim: D (nightly); Santa Ana: L (M-F), D (nightly). 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.621.0101; South Coast Plaza Village, 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.444.4834 $$$$ Map I10, J13 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Bone-in cowboy rib-eye; 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

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

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

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

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

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

Baked clams; Phuket-style pho; seafood bird’s nest. Lots of vegetarian options. L, D (daily). 9100 Trask Ave., Garden Grove, 714.899.8273 $$$ Map K8 LSXO New. Intimate, hidden restaurant-within-arestaurant at Bluegold is extraordinary. Fifty Saigoninspired dishes, five cocktails. Practically intoxicating décor and, at dinner, servers in black eveningwear set the tone. B, L, D (daily). 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0038 $$ Map N9

SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s upscale spot, several settings in historic cottage. Pacific diver scallops; scarlet beet ravioli; Lord Stanley Cut (bone-in rib-eye) wagyu steak for two;monkey bread dessert. D (Tu-Su). 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881 $$$ Map I16

FOOD HALLS

TEXAS DE BRAZIL New. Texas-sized array of Brazilian grilled meats, served by gauchos from skewers, very elaborate salad bar, and caiparhina

ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE Historic citrus hub— the Sunkist building—hosts two dozen foodie vendors including Urbana for Mexican; Adya for Cal-Indian; Roll-

ing Boil for hot pots; Georgia’s for Southern; Hammer Bar & Tool Shed for cocktails; Black Sheep for distinctive grilled cheese sandwiches; the Iron Press for savory waffles; Popbar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.635.1350 $$ Map H10 4TH STREET MARKET Fifteen foodie tenants include Electric City Butcher, Touch S’more Co., Mar, Stockyard Sandwich, Dos Chinos, Front Porch Pops, KTCHN DTSA, Portola Coffee Lab and Recess Libations for cocktails on tap. New: Jinny’s Pizzeria, Pig Pen Delicacy, Sit Low Pho and Terra. L, D (daily). 201 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.486.0700 $$ Map H13 LOT 579 New. Impressive tenant list at new marketplace includes American Dream for burgers and beers, Burnt Crumbs for artisanal sandwiches, Il Barone Italian Street Food, Bear Flag Fish Co. for poke, Pie-Not for savory Aussie pies and PopBar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, gopacificcity.com $$ Map N9 TRADE FOOD HALL Opening presently. Local entrepreneurs launch new concepts at center near airport anchored by Ootoro Sushi (see Japanese). Tenants include Megadon Japanese-Hawaiian fusion, Two Birds grilled and fried chicken, Butterleaf vegetarian and Sweet Comforts desserts. B, L, D (daily). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, tradefoodhall.com $ Map J14 UNION MARKET MISSION VIEJO Dining collection on upper level of entertainment center includes Anchor Hitch Seafood & Raw Bar (the city’s finest dining?), Oyu Shabu for shabu-shabu, Hummus Bowl, Dry Society for craft cocktails and Milk Box for craft boba tea. L, D (daily). Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, unionmarketmissionviejo.com $$ Map E6 UNION MARKET TUSTIN Diverse dining experiences include Hatch for creative sliders and Tiki drinks, Cubed for poke, Kettlebar Steam Cooking for pan roasts and other seafood stews, the Kroft for market-inspired sandwiches and poutine, and the Dirty Cookie. L, D (daily). The District, 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, unionmarkettustin.com $$ Map D4

Quick Bites ASADA New. Popular Laguna taco destination is back, downsized and reborn as a taco bar in the Boat Canyon shopping center. L, D (daily). 610 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.226.7263 $ Map H15 BRUXIE O.C.’s original waffle-sandwiches chain now focusing on its popular fried-chicken creations.

B, L, D (daily). The Strand, 180 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 657.215.3559; 292 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3900; 215 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1188 $ Map N8, C4, A3 BURGER PARLOR Chef with Michelin star experience focuses on burgers such as the bacon-forward Smokey and Frito Chili Cheeseburger. L, D (daily). 149 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.602.8220; 204 N. Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, 714.441.2003 $$ Map B4, A3 C4 DELI: THE CURE FOR THE COMMON Localcentric kitchen with wine-and-craft-beer bar and even more distinctive craft sodas; ciabatta-roll sandwiches include the standout porchetta. B, L, D (daily). 200 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.263.1555 $$ Map H1 CROW BURGER KITCHEN Casual but top-notch spot on the peninsula offers Angus and Prime beef burgers in intriguing configurations. Try Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger! L, D (daily). 3107 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.2747 $ Map N12 DORY DELI Deli food with a contemporary spin and a beachside setting. Battered fish and chips use the Dory Fleet’s catch of the day. B, L, D (daily). 2108 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach, 949.220.7886 $ Map N13

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DINING

Skyloft Weekly Features

GD BRO BURGER Yearling spot started as acclaimed food truck, serves creative burgers (e.g., Italian Stallion, Korean BBBQ poutine) on house-made bright red brioche buns. B, L (daily). 2321 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.972.4588 $$ Map G14

KRAVE KOBE BURGER GRILL Superlative fast-casual. Consider the Ultimate Kolossal Kobe: two 5-ounce Imperial Wagyu patties with Niman Ranch add-ons. L, D (daily). 21133 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.719.7770 $$ Map J11 LEMONADE Huge array of distinctive salads, sandwiches and stews in fast-casual cafeteria setting. L, D (daily). 2967 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1560; Fashion Island, 987 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.7525; Pacific City, 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.604.1072 $ Map J14, L15, N9 MCDONALD’S By the numbers it’s America’s favorite hamburger restaurant; this one’s near the Disney theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.491.0563 plus 70 other county locations. $ Map I10 PIZZA PRESS Roaring ’20s newspaper theme, decor and pizzas. Patio dining, wine and beer, plus grab-and-go. B, L, D (daily). 1534 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.323.7134; 155 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.888.5941 $ Map C4 PORTILLO’S Chicago hot-dog mecca offers amazing value near Knott’s Berry Farm. The dogs are just one reason it’s got so many fans. L, D (daily). 8390 La Palma Ave., Buena Park, 714.220.6400 $ Map G8 PROVISIONS MARKET Specialty market/artisan deli specializies in truly innovative sandwiches; 500 craft beers and 30 on tap. L, D (daily). 143 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.997.2337 $$ Map C4 SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Creative sandwiches—Gangnam Korean meatball, El Cubano—and tasty salads. B, L, D (daily). 414 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, 714.594.3899; 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001 $ Map N9, N13 SLAPFISH Boat-to-table cuisine: Lobster grilled cheese, lobster roll and “clobster cake.” L, D (daily). 3405 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 657.444.2291; 2727 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.723.0034; 19696 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.963.3900; 4249 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.737.2090 $$ Map M13, H15, A3, D4 TACKLE BOX Top Chef alumnus Brian Huskey’s unlikely “local grub shack” at sand’s edge on Corona del Mar State Beach. Maine lobster on squid-ink roll on weekends. W-Su 9 am-sunset; L (Tu). 3029 E. Shore Ave., Newport Beach, 949.723.0502 $$ Map M16 THE TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN Eclectic menu: chashu-pork sandwich, spaghetti sandwich, chili cheese tots. B, L, D (daily). 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.709.5545; 75 E. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.1029 $ Map east of D6, N13

WHERE TO EAT WHERE TO SHOP WHERE TO GO

UMAMI BURGER Much lauded burgers; off-menu “tater tots.” Nine-course cocktail-pairing tasting menu at Anaheim location. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center.

31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1830; 338 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.991.8626; The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.957.8626 $ Map G15, I10, J13

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

ANAHEIM ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE (Food Hall)..........42 ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE (Italian)......................37 BENIHANA (Japanese)...................................................38 CATAL / UVA BAR (Mediterranean).........................39 ECCO RISTORANTE (Italian)....................................37 HEALTHY JUNK (Vegan).............................................42 J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ...................................34 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).............41 MCDONALD’S (Quick Bites)................................43 MIX (Eclectic).......................................................................36 MORTON’S (Steak).........................................................42 NAPA ROSE (California)................................................34 PIZZA PRESS (Italian)....................................................43 POUR VIDA (Mexican)...................................................40 RAINFOREST CAFE (Themed)..................................33 RALPH BRENNAN’S (American)..............................33 TEMPO URBAN KITCHEN (American)................34 THE RANCH (American)................................................34 REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK (American).......34 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).............42 SLATER’S 50/50 (Burgers/Brew Pub) ..................34 UMAMI BURGER (American).....................................43 WHO SONG AND LARRY’S (Mexican)...............41 ZOV’S ANAHEIM (Mediterranean)...........................39

BREA BRUNOS TRATTORIA (Italian).................................37 BRUXIE (Belgian)...............................................................42 CHA CHA’S TACOS (Mexican)..................................39 CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................32 EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................39 LILLIE’S Q (American).....................................................33 SLAPFISH (Seafood).........................................................43 TAPS FISH HOUSE (Brew Pub/Seafood)..............41 TEMPO URBAN KITCHEN (American)................34

BUENA PARK IL GARAGE (Italian)........................................................38 PARK AVE (American).....................................................33 PORTILLO’S (Quick Bites)......................................43 THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................42

CORONA DEL MAR BANDERA (American).....................................................32 FARMHOUSE (American).............................................32 FIVE CROWNS (Continental).......................................35 PIROZZI (Italian)................................................................38 THE QUIET WOMAN (American)...........................33 SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)................................................34 TACKLE BOX (Quick Bites). ..................................43

COSTA MESA/ SOUTH COAST METRO ANQI (Vietnamese Fusion).......................................42 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE (Italian)...................37 ARC (American)...................................................................32 THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)..................................42 CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................32 DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese)..............................................35 EAT CHOW (American)..................................................32 ECCO RISTORANTE (Italian)....................................37 GOLDEN TRUFFLE (Eclectic)..............................36 HABANA (Latin)................................................................40 HAMAMORI (Japanese).................................................38 IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian).....................................37 LEATHERBY’S CAFE ROUGE (American).............32 MARRAKESH (Moroccan).............................................36 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak).......................42 MEMPHIS (American)............................................33 MESA (Mediterranean-American)...................................39 MEZZET (Mediterranean).................................................39 MORTON’S (Steak).........................................................42 OLD VINE CAFE (American)......................................33

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PIZZERIA ORTICA (Italian).........................................38 PLUMS (American)..................................................33 PUEBLO (Spanish).............................................................40 QUATTRO CAFFE (Italian).........................................38 RESTAURANT MARIN (American)..........................34 ROYAL KHYBER (Indian).............................................37 SADDLE RANCH (American)......................................34 SEABIRDS KITCHEN (Vegan)...................................42 SEASONS 52 (American)..............................................34 SHUCK OYSTER BAR (Seafood)..............................41 SOCIAL (American)...........................................................34 TACO ASYLUM (Mexican)...........................................40 TACO MARIA (Mexican)...............................................40 UMAMI BURGER (American).....................................43 VACA (Spanish)...................................................................40 VITALY (Italian)...................................................................38 WATER GRILL (Seafood)...............................................41

EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................40 IL FORNAIO (Italian)......................................................37 LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................43 LUCCA CAFE (Mediterranean)....................................39 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).............41 NORTH ITALIA (Italian).................................................38 OOTORO SUSHI (Japanese)........................................38 PAUL MARTIN’S (American).......................................33 PUESTO (Mexican)...........................................................40 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).............42 SLAPFISH (Quick Bites)..........................................43 TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................................41 TEXAS DE BRAZIL (Steak).........................................42 TRADE FOOD HALL (Food Hall)..............................42 TWENTY EIGHT (Chinese)...........................................35 UMAMI BURGER (Quick Bites)..................................43 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

DANA POINT

LAGUNA BEACH

ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian)..............................37 AVEO (Mediterranean).......................................................39 COASTAL KITCHEN (American)...............................32 HARBOR GRILL (Seafood)...........................................41 RAYA (Latin Fusion)..................................................40 STONEHILL TAVERN (American).............................34

ASADA (Mexican)..............................................................42 BREAK OF DAWN (Vietnamese Fusion).................42 BROADWAY (American)................................................32 DRIFTWOOD (American)..............................................32 HARVEST AT THE RANCH (American)................34 K’YA BISTRO BAR (American)...................................34 LAS BRISAS (Mexican)...................................................40 MOZAMBIQUE (South African)............................36 MOULIN (French)...................................................36 NICK’S (American).............................................................36 REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK (American).......34 ROYAL HAWAIIAN (American).................................34 ROYAL THAI (Thai).........................................................42 SAPPHIRE (Eclectic).........................................................36 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN (Steak)......................42 SKYLOFT (American).......................................................34 SPLASHES (California)....................................................34 STUDIO (California)..........................................................35 THREE SEVENTY COMMON (American)..............34 TOMMY BAHAMA (American).................................34 URTH CAFFÉ (California)..............................................35

FOUNTAIN VALLEY AU LAC (Vegan).................................................................42 RECESS ROOM (American).........................................34

FULLERTON BURGER PARLOR (Quick Bites)...........................42 CITIZEN KITCHEN (American)..................................32

GARDEN GROVE BRODARD CHATEAU (Vietnamese).......................42 THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................42 THE WHARF (Seafood)..................................................42

HUNTINGTON BEACH BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS (Steak)..........................42 BLUEGOLD (American).........................................34 BRUXIE (Belgian)...............................................................42 DUKE’S (Seafood)..............................................................41 LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................43 LOT 579 (Food Hall). ..............................................42 LSXO (Vietnamese). ................................................42 MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................41 OLA MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican)....................40 OLD CROW SMOKEHOUSE (American)...........33 RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................34 SAINT MARC PUB-CAFÉ (American)...................34 SANDY’S HB (American)...............................................34 SEALEGS WINE BAR (California)............................34 SEASALT WOODFIRE GRILL (California)...........34 SESSIONS DELI (Sandwiches)............................................. 43 SHADES (American).........................................................34 SLAPFISH (Quick Bites)..........................................43 SLATER’S 50/50 (Brew Pub) ................................34 SOLITA (Mexican) .............................................................40 TANNERS (American)......................................................35 THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................43 25 DEGREES (American)......................................34 WATERTABLE (American).............................................34 ZIMZALA (American).......................................................34

IRVINE AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Brazilian)....................42 ANDREI’S (American)......................................................32 ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian)..............................37 BURGER LOUNGE (Quick Bites).........................44 CAPITAL SEAFOOD (Seafood).................................35 CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................................37 DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE (American).........................32 EATS KITCHEN (Eclectic).............................................36

MISSION VIEJO ANCHOR HITCH (Seafood).........................................41 EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................39 UNION MARKET (Food Halls)....................................42

NEWPORT BEACH A RESTAURANT (American).......................................32 BACK BAY BISTRO (American)................................32 BAYSIDE (American)........................................................32 BEACH BARREL (Quick Bites).....................................44 BENIHANA (Japanese)...................................................38 BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood)...................................41 CROW BURGER KITCHEN (Gastropub)...............42 CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................................37 DORY DELI (Quick Bites).......................................42 EAT CHOW (American)..................................................32 EL TORITO GRILL (Mexican)......................................39 FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean)......................................39 FLEMING’S (Steak)..........................................................42 GRATITUDE (Vegan).......................................................42 HOPDODDY (American)...............................................32 IL BARONE RISTORANTE (Italian).......................37 JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR (American)...............32 LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................43 LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ (American)............33 MOULIN (French)..............................................................36 NANA SAN (Japanese)..................................................38 OAK GRILL (California)....................................................34 PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian).........................................38 PROVENANCE (California)..........................................34 RED O (Mexican)...............................................................40 ROYAL THAI (Thai).........................................................42

ROYAL HEN (American)........................................34 RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................34 SAPORI (Italian).................................................................38 SESSIONS DELI (Sandwiches).....................................43 SLAPFISH (Quick Bites)..........................................43 SOL COCINA (Mexican)................................................40 SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)...............................................38 TOMMY BAHAMA (American)...........................34 TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN (Quick Bites)...43 TRUE FOOD KITCHEN (Eclectic)...........................36 21 OCEANFRONT (Continental)...............................36 WATERLINE (Seafood)....................................................41 THE WINERY (California)..............................................35

NEWPORT COAST ANDREA (Italian)..............................................................37 BABETTE’S (American)...................................................32 THE BEACHCOMBER (American)...........................32 BLUEFIN (Japanese).........................................................38 KRAVE KOBE BURGER (American).......................43 MARCHÉ MODERNE (French).................................36 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood)...................41 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

ORANGE ANEPALCO’S (Mexican-French)..................................39 BRUXIE (Belgian)...............................................................42 BURGER PARLOR (Quick Bites)...........................42 FRANCOLI GOURMET (Italian)...............................37 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican)..........40 HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew Pub).......................34 THE HOBBIT (Continental)............................................35 MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................41 ORANGE HILL (Continental)........................................35 PIZZA PRESS (Italian)....................................................43 PROVISIONS (Quick Bites)....................................43 SADDLE RANCH (American)......................................34 TULSA RIB CO (American)...........................................34 WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN (American).......... 34

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA THE BLIND PIG (American).........................................32 TROUGH SANDWICH KITCHEN (Quick Bites)...43

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO BAD TO THE BONE (American)..............................32 EL ADOBE (Mexican)......................................................39 PASCAL (French)................................................................36 RAMOS HOUSE CAFE (American).........................33

SANTA ANA CHAPTER ONE (American).........................................32 C4 DELI (American)..........................................................42 CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................32 EL MERCADO (Mexican)..............................................39 4TH STREET MARKET (Food Halls). ..................42 GD BRO (Quick Bites)......................................................43 IRENIA (Filipino)......................................................36 MIX MIX KITCHEN (Eclectic)....................................36 PLAYGROUND (American)..........................................33 TANGATA (California)......................................................35

SAN CLEMENTE THE CELLAR (American)...............................................32 MRK PUBLIC (Gastropub).............................................34 NICK’S (American).............................................................36

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

TUSTIN BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood)...................................41 HOPDODDY (American)...............................................32 J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ..................................34 UNION MARKET (Food Halls). ............................42 THE WINERY (California)..............................................35 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

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

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

2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 • andreisrestaurant.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

special events FESTIVAL OF WHALES Mar. 4-5, 11-12. The 46th annual festival celebrates the migration of the California gray whale with a parade, street fairs, concerts, crafts and marine-mammal cruises. Call for hours. Free. Dana Point Harbor, 949.496.1045, festivalofwhales.com Map J16 OC RESTAURANT WEEK Mar. 5-11. More than 100 restaurants across Orange County offer discounted prixfixe menus. Various locations, ocrestaurantweek.com SWALLOWS DAY PARADE Mar. 25. Salutes storied annual bird visit from Argentina. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976, swallowsparade.com Map I17 NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL Apr. 20-27. Event presents 350 films—features, shorts, documentaries and animation—as well as parties and sessions with directors and screenwriters. Schedule and locations on website. newportbeachfilmfest.com Map K16 NEWPORT TO ENSENADA RACE Apr. 28-30.

World’s largest yacht race; hundreds of boats compete.

Best views from Corona del Mar coastal cliffs and Balboa Pier. newporttoensenada.com Map N12

All the Hits

Multiplatinum-selling artists and multiple Grammy Award winners Lionel Richie and Mariah Carey tour together for the first time. The pair’s All the Hits tour stops May 10 at Honda Center in Anaheim. Richie, above, is known for mega-hits including “Endless Love,” “Lady,” “All Night Long (All Night),” “Say You, Say Me” and one of the most acclaimed pop songs ever, “We Are the World,” written with Michael Jackson for USA for Africa. Richie’s early catalog includes smashes he penned for the Commodores, such as “Three Times a Lady” and “Easy.” Carey is the bestselling female artist of all time, at 220 million records. She wrote all but one of her 18 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles—more than any other solo artist—among them “Fantasy,” “Always Be My Baby,” “Hero” and “We Belong Together.” p. 48

DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL May 20-21. Blues, rock and R&B on three stages. Microbrew tastings and wine lounge. Sa 11 am-9:30 pm; Su 11 am-9 pm. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, dohenybluesfestival.com Map H15 GARDEN GROVE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL May 26-29. Parade, carnival rides, strawberry cake. F 1-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm; M 10 am-9 pm. Free. Rides from $1.

Village Green between Main and Euclid streets, Garden Grove, 714.638.0981, strawberryfestival.org Map J9

Theater HERSHEY FELDER AS TCHAIKOVSKY Mar. 1-26.

Pianist and storyteller Hershey Felder presents the life and music of Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER Through Mar. 5. Tony Award-winning musical presents ... a lighter side of murder? Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 ORANGE Mar. 5-26. Leela, a teenager from India, finds her place in the world when she ditches a boring family wedding to rebelliously careen through Orange County.

South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 FINDING NEVERLAND Mar. 21-Apr. 2. Musical tells the story of the inspiration for and creation of J.M. Barrie’s beloved classic, Peter Pan. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 THE SIEGEL Mar. 24-Apr. 23. Comedy about modern love. Ethan Siegel asks for his girlfriend’s permission to marry—two years after their breakup. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 THE WIZARD OF OZ Apr. 1-9. Based on the Oscarwinning film The Wizard of Oz. The score includes classics such as “Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard.” Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15

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

index

Special Events.................. 48 Theater............................... 48 Music + Dance................. 48 Sports.................................. 50 Attractions........................ 50 Museums............................51 Shopping Destinations...52

Golf Courses......................53 Active Outdoors..............53 Beaches...............................54 Nightlife...............................58 Tours + Transport.............59 Tickets................................ 60

A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2 Apr. 9-30. Based on Ibsen’s classic, A Doll’s House. Nora, a mother who left her husband and children, returns after 15 years. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 KING OF THE ROAD Apr. 19-May 14. Based on true story of Grammy Award-winning, wisecracking country star and Tony Award-winning Broadway composer Roger Miller. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 AN AMERICAN IN PARIS Apr. 25-May 7. Tony Award-winning musical about an American soldier and a mysterious French girl who yearn for a new beginning in the aftermath of war. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 THE MONSTER BUILDER Opening May 5.

Outrageous comedy about the world’s most celebrated architect and a peculiar project. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 TALES OF A FOURTH GRADE NOTHING Opening May 19. Based on the book by Judy Blume, the stage adaptation tells the hilarious story of a sibling rivalry.

South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 THE BODYGUARD Opening May 28. Former Secret Service agent is hired to protect a superstar from a stalker. Songs include “Saving All My Love,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and the huge hit, “I Will Always Love You.” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13

MUSIC + DANCE HONDA CENTER Mar. 30 Ariana Grande. Apr. 1 BTS The Wings Tour. May 10 Lionel Richie and Mariah Carey. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES Mar. 3-4 Chase Rice Mar. 5-6 Korn. Mar. 7 Thrice and Manchester Orchestra. Mar. 8 George Thorogood and the Destroyers Rock Party Tour. Mar. 9-10 Cafe Tacvba. Mar. 11 Daya (6:30 pm); Adventure Club (10:30 pm). Mar. 12 Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness. Mar. 13 Billy Idol. Mar. 14 The Growlers. Mar. 15 Jason Isbell. Mar. 16 Julieta Venegas. Mar. 17 Wu-Tang Clan: Return to the 36 Chambers. Mar. 18 KROQ Presents 311. Mar. 19 Death Cab for Cutie. Mar. 20 KROQ presents the Kills. Mar. 21 Big Sean. Mar. 23 Common. Mar. 25 Yellowcard: The Final Show. Mar. 26 Josh Abbott Band and Save Ferris. Mar. 29 Eisley. Mar. 29 Sleigh Bells. Mar. 31 Reel Big Fish. Apr. 1 The Growlers. Apr. 5 Frankie Ballard. Apr. 6 Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime. Apr. 7 Mayday Parade. Apr. 8 The Damned.

Apr. 13 Simple Plan: No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls.

Tom Van Sant’s bronze wind-chime sculpture (1967) at what is now Macy’s at Fashion Island was the world’s largest wind chime for 40 years. p. 52

48 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2017

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AT T R A C T I O N S + M U S E U M S

An American in Paris at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Apr. 14-15 Ramon Ayala. Apr. 21 Berlin. Apr. 23 Pixies.

Apr. 25 Denitia and Sene. Apr. 28 Sammy Johnson. May 5 Sondre Lerche. May 18 Testament. May 24 Catfish and the Bottlemen. 400 Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.778.2583, houseofblues.com Map I10 Irvine Barclay Theatre Mar. 2 National Theater Live Screening: Saint Joan. Mar. 3 Mandelring Quartet.

Mar. 4 Matthew Morrison. Mar. 5 George Benson. Mar. 9 Aspen Santa Fe Ballet. Mar. 11 Willie K. Mar. 17 UCI Symphony Orchestra. Mar. 18 The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Mar. 19 Peter Rabbit Tales. Mar. 23 The Wailin Jennys. Mar. 25-26 Festival Ballet Theatre, Don Quixote. Mar. 27 In the Mood: Big Band Revue.

Mar. 31-Apr. 1 MenAlive: Swing Out! Apr. 2 Violinist Alina Ibragimova and pianist Cédric Tiberghien. Apr. 5 Max Raabe und das Palast Orchester. Apr. 7-8 Arlo Guthrie. Apr. 9 Mozart Classical Orchestra. Apr. 11 NTL Screening: Hedda Gabler. Apr. 19 Kei Akagi Tokyo Trio with James Newton. Apr. 22 Compagnie Herve Koubi, What the Day Owes to the Night. Apr. 23 Storyteller David Gonzalez, Sleeping Beauty. Apr. 28 Asleep at the Wheel. Apr. 29 HAPA. May 12-13 Opera UCI: Our Town. May 21 GuGu Drums of Shanghai. May 25 Amy Hanaiali’i Gilliom. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14 musco center for the arts Mar. 3 Chapman Orchestra. Mar. 4 Opera Night Gala. Mar. 5 Colburn Orchestra. Mar. 9 Mezzo-soprano Milena Kitic. Mar. 11 Rita Moreno. Mar. 12 Orange County Youth Symphony Orchestra. Mar. 16 Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn. Mar. 17 Dianne Reeves. Mar. 18 Pacific Chorale/Pacific Symphony, Mozart Requiem. Mar. 26 Vietnamese American On Life. Apr. 6 Chapman University Wind Symphony.

Apr. 8 World Cafe. Apr. 21-22 Opera Chapman. May 5-6 Spring Dance Concert. May 11 Technology for Live Performance. May 13 Sholund Sholarship Concert. May 14 O.C. Youth Symphony Orchestra. May 28 Heartbeat of Mexico.

Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, 844.626.8726, muscocenter.org Map B4 Segerstrom Center for the Arts Segerstrom Hall Mar. 15-19 American Ballet Theatre, Whipped Cream. Mar. 21-Apr. 2 Finding Neverland. Apr. 3 Conversation with Yanni. Apr. 4 Brain Candy Live. Apr. 5-9 Shen Yun. Apr. 21-22 Taj Express. Apr. 23 Lila Downs with Monsieur Periné. Apr. 25-May 7 An American in Paris.

May 26 Celtic Woman. Opening May 30 The Bodyguard.

Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Mar. 3-4 The Beach Boys. Mar. 12 Fritz Lang’s Metropolis. Mar. 15 St. Petersburg Philharmonic. Mar. 22 National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine. Mar. 23-25 Pacific Symphony. Mar. 25 King Arthur & The Legend of the Dragon’s Lair. Mar. 30 Neil Gaiman. Mar. 31 Danish National Symphony Orchestra. Apr. 1 Graham Nash. Apr. 6-8 Ellis Island. Apr. 9 Ellis Island: An American Dream. Apr. 19 Bach’s St. John Passion. Apr. 21-22 Hilty & Stokes Mitchell. Apr. 27-29 Pacific Symphony. Apr. 29 Carnival of the Animals. Apr. 30 Organist Monte Maxwell. May 3 Pianist Benjamin Grosvenor. May 13 Pacific Chorale. May 18-20 Pacific Symphony.

soka performing arts center Mar. 8 Aliso Viejo High School Festival of Music. Mar. 10 Calvin Keys Ensemble. Mar. 12 African Guitar Summit. Apr. 1 Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. Apr. 8 Inuit music and dance Pamyua. Apr. 12 Critical Conversations presents Moby: Vegan Meat-up. Apr. 21 Pianist Murray Perahia.

Apr. 23 Artbeat presents Ain’t Misbehavin’. Apr. 28 José Rizo’s Mongorama. Apr. 30 Pacific Symphony, pianist Joyce Yang. May 6 Soka University International Festival.

Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, soka.edu Map E6

Sports Angel stadium Apr. 7-9 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Mariners. Apr. 11-13 Angels vs. Rangers.

Apr. 21-24 Angels vs. Blue Jays. Apr. 25-27 Angels vs.

Athletics. May 5-7 Angels vs. Astros. May 11-14 Angels vs. Tigers. May 15-17 Angels vs. White Sox. May 29-31 Angels vs. Braves. 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000 losangeles.angels.mlb.com Map I9 Honda Center Mar. 3 Anaheim Ducks vs. Toronto Maple Leafs. Mar. 5 Ducks vs. Vancouver Canucks. Mar. 7 Ducks vs. Nashville Predators. Mar. 9-11 2017 Big West Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament. Mar. 12 Ducks vs. Washington Capitals. Mar. 15 Ducks vs. St. Louis Blues. Mar. 17 Ducks vs. Buffalo Sabres. Mar. 22 Ducks vs. Edmonton Oilers. Mar. 24 Ducks vs. Winnipeg Jets. Mar. 26 Ducks vs. New York Rangers. Apr. 4 Ducks vs. Calgary Flames. Apr. 6 Ducks vs. Chicago Blackhawks.

Apr. 9 Ducks vs. Los Angeles Kings. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11

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

Through May 14 Very Eric Carle. Apr. 1-16 Bubblefest. 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 recently marked its diamond 60th anniversary. Main Street continues to look back with Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln; Tomorrowland looks to the future with Star Wars— construction has begun on a Star Wars-themed land. A mountain range of thrill rides include Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain. Call for hours. Admission (includes

all rides and attractions): $89-$113, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 Disney California Adventure Park recently celebrated Disney’s 60th anniversary. Soarin’ Around the World; California Screamin’; World of Color water-andlight show; The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $89-$113. 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 Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Sanuk for casual shoes and ESPN Zone. Nongated, free admission. 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 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 The county’s largest botanical garden; more than 4,000 plant species set amid ponds and streams. Four main collections: Mediterranean, woodland, desert and cultivated. 8 am-4:30 pm. Free; $5 suggested donation. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657.278.3407 Map A3 K1 Speed Indoor kart racing offers challenging track for speed enthusiasts. Call for hours. Arrangements for private parties or corporate events possible. $20. 17221 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.250.0242; 1000 N. Edward Court, Anaheim, 714.632.6999 Map J14, B4 Knott’s Berry Farm More than 165 rides and attractions include Voyage to the Iron Reef. Premier collection of coasters includes Silver Bullet and Xcelerator.

Camp Snoopy for younger children. Call for hours and prices; under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map G8 Legoland California Theme park features some 60 rides, shows and attractions. Call for hours. $85-$91, under 3 free. Sea Life Aquarium, add $18.

1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.LEGO Map south of F6 MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Pure Spanish stallions, swordsmanship and falconry, four-course feast. $36.95-$61.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 Nixon presidential Library & museum Recently reopened following a $15 million renovation.

Some 70 new exhibits include a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office, another focusing on his historic China trip. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.983.9120 Map A4 Ocean Institute Aboard tall ship Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor. Tide-pool sessions; marine-mammal cruises; blue-whale safaris. Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm; tour Th-F 3:30 pm. $4.50-$6.50, under 3 free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274 Map J16 Orange County Zoo Rustic zoo; animals of the Southwest. M-F 10 am-3:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-4:30 pm. $2, under 3 free. Parking $3-$5. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6847 Map C5 Pirate’s dinner adventure Venue offering swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard Spanish galleon replica marks 10th anniversary. Call for hours. $36.95-$59.95, under 3 free. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8 Queen mary ship and seaport Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—in Long Beach Harbor.

Shops, dining, art deco lounge; Russian Foxtrot Submarine adjacent. Self-guided/guided tours 10 am-6 pm. $14.95-

MATTHEW MURPHY

May 27 Jake Shimabukuro, ukulele. Samueli Theater Mar. 4-5 Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters. Mar. 9-11 Charles Busch. Mar. 28 Emerson String Quartet. Apr. 1-2 Doktor Kaboom. Apr. 8 Piano trio Setzer, Finckel, Wu Han. Apr. 22-23 Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey. Apr. 27-29 Steve Tyrell. May 20-21 The Painted Garden. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13

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AT T R A C T I O N S + M U S E U M S $30.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511 Map northwest of C1 THE RIDE 7D Experiences combine roller coaster simulation and laser-blasting. Su-Th 11 am-9 pm; F-Sa 10 am-11 pm. $9; three rides $20. Irvine Spectrum Center, 744 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, ​949.769.6772 Map D5 ROCKREATION Indoor climbing facility with instruction at all levels. M-Th noon-10 pm; F noon-9 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $11-$16. 1300 Logan Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.556.7625 Map J12 SAFARI PARK Wildlife preserve with vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. $48; children 3-11 $38; kids 2 and under free. Cars $10-15. Open daily, call for hours. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702 Map southeast of F6 SAN DIEGO ZOO Renowned zoo has 4,000 rare and endangered animals in state-of-the-art environments. $48; 3-11 $38; 2 and under free. Free parking.

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

C

ome to the Aquarium of the Pacific where you and your family can get in touch with nature and marine life, any time you want. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play. over 11,000 animals await you.

562.590.3100 100 AquArium WAy, Long BeAch, cA 90802

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

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

Time nightclub, Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, Starlight Cinemas plus restaurants La Vida Cantina, Saddle Ranch Chop House and Black Knight Gastro Lounge. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map K12 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD New: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Rides at movie-based theme park include Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem; tram tour takes in King Kong 360 3-D. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map north of A1 VANS SKATEPARK Skateboard mecca has combi pool and open street course; Vans store is adjacent. Daily 10 am-10 pm. $12 weekdays; $15 weekends. 20 City Blvd.

West No. 2, Orange, 714.769.3800 Map J11

Museums BOWERS KIDSEUM Ethnic arts and culture for children near Bowers Museum. First Sunday celebrations. Sa-Su 10 am-4 pm. $6, under 2 free. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.480.1520 Map G13 BOWERS MUSEUM Dedicated to preservation and exhibition of world cultural arts plus displays with a California focus. Continuing See & Unseen: Photographs

by Imogen Cunningham; As She Liked It: The Shakespearean Roles of Madame Modjeska; Frida Kahlo—Her Photos; Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan; Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands; Ancient Arts of China; First Californians.

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

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SHOPPING 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 May 29 From Wendt to Thiebaud: Recent Gifts for the Permanent Collection; The Golden Decade: Photography at the California School of Fine Arts, 1945-55; Stanton Macdonald-Wright: The Haiga Portfolio. M-Tu, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am-9 pm. $5-$7, under 12 free. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8971 Map H15 LYON AIR MUSEUM Very rare operational 20th-century aircraft and other historical vehicles on airport perimeter. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $6-$12, under 5 free. 19300 Ike Jones Drive, Santa Ana, 714.210.4585 Map J13 MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Exhibits at jewel of the California missions (1776). Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. Ongoing Mission Treasures; Native American Museum; Plein Air Art Reproductions; South Wing of the Mission. Digital audio tour free with admission. Daily 9 am-5 pm. $6-$9, under 3 free.

26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300 Map I17 MUZEO Intimate exhibition space on Center Street Promenade. Through May 7 Dressing Downton: Changing Fashion for Changing Times. Apr. 1-8 9th Annual Trash Artist Challenge Exhibition. Opening May 13 The Art of Geoffrey Mitchell; Esperanza Ceramics. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$10.

241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10 ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART California modern and contemporary art. Through Apr. 2 Pop Art Design; Forms of Identity: Women Artists in the 90s. Opening May 6 2017 California-Pacific Triennial.

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

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

800-984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach Map M15 CRYSTAL COVE SHOPPING CENTER Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques Coastal Cool and new Atelier 7918, fine dining including Bluefin, Babette’s and Mastro’s Ocean Club. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast Map M17

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

Urban Outfitters, Eye Society and Crew Salon; dining includes Habana, Gypsy Den. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 LIDO MARINA VILLAGE New. Clare V. and Jenni Kayne boutiques, Alchemy Works gallery and Nobu restaurant are inaugural tenants at revitalized harborside pedestrian-friendly shopping village. 400 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, 949.675.8662 Map M15 LOS OLIVOS MARKETPLACE SwimSpot and Newport Colony Home join Whole Foods Market and a dozen restaurants including new Puesto at new center. 8673-8697 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.720.3100 Map D5 MAINPLACE Indoor million-square-foot center offers Nordstrom, 190 shops and 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball and open-air swimming. 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13 NEWPORT COAST SHOPPING CENTER Neighborhood center includes Blue Eyed Girl, Jeanni Champagne and the Passionate Collector. 21101-21185 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.3100 Map L17 THE OUTLETS AT ORANGE Includes DKNY, Levi’s, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Vans Skatepark for indoor boarding. 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.4001 Map J11 OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE Beautiful Spanishinspired center with ocean views. Stores include Vans, Guess and Nike. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, outletsatsanclemente.com Map south of F6 PACIFIC CITY New. Beautiful center on 30 acres with beach views from every plaza, deck and patio. H&M, the Wearhouse, West of Camden, Heirlooms & Hardware and new Bluegold restaurant. 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.930.2345 Map N9 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Highlights include Design Within Reach midcentury showroom and Surfas Culinary District. OC Mix features 30 vendors—quirky retail and unforgettable Taco María restaurant. 33033323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12 SOUTH COAST PLAZA “The Ultimate Shopping Experience” is a state tourist destination. Marquee retailers include Christian Louboutin and Chanel. New: Rimowa luggage and Massimo Dutti. Macy’s Home Store and Crate & Barrel in Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13

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GOLF

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

M-Th $29, F $34, Sa-Su $38. 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 Map I16 ANAHEIM HILLS GOLF COURSE “The Hills.” Fine golf value, with 18 holes set amid vistas, valleys, streams, oaks and sycamores. M-Th $52, F $59, Sa-Su $70. Includes cart and GPS. Twilight rates available. 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road, Anaheim, 714.998.3041 Map B5 ARROYO TRABUCO GOLF CLUB Upscale course on Ladera Open Space Reserve. M-Th $72, F $87, Sa-Su $101. 26772 Avery Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.305.5100 Map E6 DAD MILLER GOLF COURSE Tiger Woods’ home course during high school; for beginning to intermediate golfers. M-Th $29, F $36, Sa-Su $41. 430 N. Gilbert St., Anaheim, 714.765.3481 Map G8 MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views bound at 18-hole course. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. Monarch Beach Resort, 50 Monarch Beach Resort Drive North, Dana Point, 949.240.8247 Map J16 OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bull-nose carved bunkers and picturesque greens on Tom Fazio course. M-Th $130, F-Su $175. Includes cart. 1 Golf Club Drive, Irvine, 949.653.5300 Map D5

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PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Two gorgeous 18-hole courses at the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; there are spectacular coastal views from virtually every hole. $290 daily. 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 877.735.4226 Map L17 STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF CLUB Eighteen-hole course features rolling greens, picturesque barn and canyon, wetland vistas and the county’s longest hole.

M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D5 TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB Resort-style course designed by Ted Robinson. Challenging greens, palm trees and lakes, remodeled clubhouse. Private caddie service. M-Th $115, F $135, Sa-Su $165. Additional cart fee. 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, 714.730.1611 Map C5

Active Outdoors AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in high-performance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2 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 open-cockpit 1930s biplane. Includes recorded DVD. 230 Dale Place, Fullerton, 866.484.7455 Map A2

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B E A C H E S & PA R KS

BEACHES + PARKS ALISO CREEK COUNTY BEACH Steep shore creates powerful waves. All amenities and fire pits. Pay-anddisplay parking $1/hour. 31131 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280 Map I16 BALBOA BEACH Pristine sunning and swimming beach. All amenities. Metered parking. Along Balboa Boulevard at Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N14

Boho-Chic, Casual Sophistication

BOLSA CHICA STATE BEACH Good for grunion hunting! All amenities and fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Main Street and Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach, 714.846.3460 Map N9 CAPISTRANO BEACH Wide and unblemished spot offers all amenities. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. 35005 Beach Road, Capo Beach, 949.923.2280 Map F6 CORONA DEL MAR STATE BEACH Large, sandy beach with volleyballbelow beautiful homes. Lifeguards, all amenities, fire pits. Waveless cove adjacent. Fee for parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Marguerite Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16 CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK Hiking and mountain biking trails, sandy coves and steep cliffs. Historic district with beach cottages and Beachcomber café. Irvine Coast Marine Life Refuge offshore. Lifeguards, restrooms. Fee for parking. East Coast Highway between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, 949.494.3539 Map E4 DOHENY STATE BEACH Popular swimming beach, interpretive center. All amenities, fire pits. Fee for parking. Dana Point Harbor, along Del Obispo and Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.496.6172 Map K17 HUNTINGTON CITY BEACH Wide, sandy beach; amenities include fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Beach Boulevard and Main Street, Huntington Beach, 714.536.5281 Map N9 HUNTINGTON STATE BEACH Expansive, sandy beach; amenities include fire pits. Bolsa Chica Wetlands are across the highway. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Santa Ana River and Main Street, Huntington Beach, 714.536.1454 Map N10 LITTLE CORONA DEL MAR BEACH Steep paved path to picturesque cove; tide pools filled with anemones and starfish are great for kids. Ocean Boulevard and Poppy Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16 MAIN BEACH Large beach close to shops and restaurants offers great people-watching, basketball, volleyball, chess. All amenities. Metered parking. At Broadway and Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map F5

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NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL BEACH Popular golden strand with many fine surfing spots. All amenities, including fire pits. Metered parking. Along Oceanfront at Newport Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N13 NEWPORT DUNES RESORT Beach at RV park on the Back Bay has full-time lifeguards, giant inflatable in-water novelties (including teeter-totter and climbing apparatus) and various water vessels for rent. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.DUNE Map M14 PICNIC BEACH Known for picnics and panoramas.

Lifeguard and picnic tables. Metered parking. Myrtle Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6573 Map H15 PIRATES COVE Secluded beach with harbor views; few to no waves make it perfect for little ones. Paid parking at Corona del Mar State Beach; free street parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Harbor Channel, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3309 Map F6

BOOK TODAY! DanaWharf.com 888.224.0603 F R EE PA R KIN G

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B E A C H E S & PA R KS SALT CREEK COUNTY BEACH Long, pristine stretch below the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Beautiful, grassy Bluff Park with basketball court. All amenities. Pay-anddisplay parking $1/hour. Off Ritz-Carlton Drive, 33333 S. Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.923.2280 Map J16 SAN CLEMENTE CITY BEACH 1,200-foot pier (1920s), wide beach, good surf. All amenities. Metered parking. The train goes right by the beach. 620 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.361.8219 Map K17 SAN CLEMENTE STATE BEACH Popular mile-long beach below sandstone bluffs offers all amenities, a nature trail and butterfly trail. Fee for parking. 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente, 949.492.3156 Map K17 SEAL BEACH Popular surfing beach has a lifeguard and showers. Metered parking. Main Street and Seal Beach Pier, Seal Beach, 562.430.2613 Map C1 SHAW’S COVE Picturesque cove has tide pools; popular diving destination. Metered parking. At Fairview Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach Map H15 TABLE ROCK BEACH 144 wooden steps lead to a dramatic cove with dangerous currents at the base of a cliff. Free street parking. First Avenue and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16 THOUSAND STEPS BEACH Two-hundred-something concrete steps lead to a small beach at the base of a cliff.

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

REGIONAL PARKs CARBON CANYON REGIONAL PARK Wild and rugged canyon terrain good for hiking and horseback riding. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea, 714.973.3160 Map A4 CLARK REGIONAL PARK Ideal for picnicking, fishing and tennis. Interpretive center houses fossils of local prehistoric plants and animals. 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park, 714.973.3170 Map A3 IRVINE REGIONAL PARK On land donated by James Irvine in 1897, California’s oldest regional park houses the Orange County Zoo and Irvine Park Railroad. Oldgrowth oak and sycamore trees. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6835 Map B5 LAGUNA NIGUEL REGIONAL PARK Outdoor activities include tennis, volleyball and bicycling in well-landscaped setting. There’s fishing on a 44-acre lake. 28241 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2240 Map F6 MASON REGIONAL PARK Large grassy areas, picnic shelters, hundreds of acres of protected land with three miles of paved trails for hikers and bikers. Many native animal species; lake and lush shade trees. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, 949.923.2220 Map D4 O’NEILL REGIONAL PARK Three-thousand-plusacre park for day use and camping includes the Arroyo Trabuco, 900-plus acres maintained as a wilderness preserve. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, 949.923.2256 Map east of D6 PETERS CANYON REGIONAL PARK Lush groves of willows and black cottonwoods intertwine with a ram-

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B E A C H E S & PA R KS bling creek and encase a 50-acre lake. Variety of scenic trails for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, 714.973.6611 Map B5 SANTIAGO OAKS REGIONAL PARK Secluded 1,750acre refuge has trails, stands of oak trees and historic dam.

Nature Center open on weekends. 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, 714.973.6620 Map B4

Wilderness Parks ALISO AND WOOD CANYONS WILDERNESS PARK 3,350-acre park is home to world-class mountain-biking terrain and superb hiking; its canyons have an idyllic feel unmatched in Orange County. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2200 Map H16 CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK 8,000 acres for day use, hiking and camping. Nature center; interpretive programs. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210 Map east of F6

WB Shield: © & TM WBEI.

RICHARD AND DONNA O’NEILL LAND CONSERVANCY 1,200-acre reserve; public access during special events. Call for schedule. Rancho Mission Viejo, 28672 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.9778 Map east of F6 LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK Sycamoreshaded canyons and high ridges offering spectacular ocean views and hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Nature center serves as a gateway to 7,000-acre natural habitat. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.923.2235 Map G15 LIMESTONE CANYON AND WHITING RANCH WILDERNESS PARK Docent-led hikes, bike rides and equestrian tours of 5,000 acres of forested canyons, rock formations, rolling hills, streams and trails. Natural history interpretive center. Portola Parkway and Market Place, Foothill Ranch, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6

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Where Magazine 2017 1/3 SQUARE

MODJESKA CANYON NATURE PRESERVE At base of Santa Ana Mountains, bordered by Cleveland National Forest on three sides. Accessible only by rangerled tours with advance reservations. Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6 RILEY WILDERNESS PARK Oak groves, grasslands and deer. Native plant garden attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. 30952 Oso Parkway, Coto de Caza, 949.923.2265 Map east of E6 UPPER NEWPORT BAY NATURE PRESERVE At Newport Back Bay with vistas of the coastal wetlands.

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

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

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

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NIGHTLIFE irvine ranch historic park Once the heart of the Irvine agricultural empire, the park preserves the ranch operations headquarters, as well as the site of the original Irvine family home. O.C. Parks headquarters.

13042 Old Myford Road, Irvine, 714.973.6609 Map C5 old orange county courthouse Site transactions and proceedings that shaped the county’s early history. Restored in 1989; houses historical exhibits, archives, special events and a marriage license office. 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.973.6605 Map H13 peralta adobe historic site One of the last remaining structures of Peralta settlement of the 1800s.

By reservation through George Key Ranch. 6398 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim, 714.973.3190 Map A4 yorba cemetery Dates to 1858. Final resting place for many O.C. pioneers. Open 10-11 am Mar. 4 and Apr. 1 or by reservation. 6749 Parkwood Court, Yorba Linda, 714.973.3190 Map A5

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

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

The District at Tustin Legacy, 2405 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.2695; Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map D4, I10 THE BUNGALOW New. Expansive ocean views, sweeping decks, lush gardens, rustic interiors and seasonal bites

by Bear Flag Fish Co. Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0399 Map N9 CALAVINO WINE BAR Fine wines, craft beers and New American fare near Angel Stadium. 2410 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.939.7735 Map I11 COSTA MESA 55 TAVERN + BOWL State-of- the-art bowling alley with sports viewing and beyondbowling-alley dining. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.438.2320 Map K12

See Orange County.

Brunch Differently.

2-HOUR CRUISE. INDULGENT BUFFET. CHAMPAGNE. LIVE JAZZ.

THE DISTRICT LOUNGE Retro spots near Newport Pier and in original 1920s post office in Orange. 121 McFadden St., Newport Beach, 949.673.4470; 223 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.639.7777 Map N13, C4 HEAT ULTRA LOUNGE Vegas-style club near Disneyland. Th-Sa. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.4328 Map I10 HOLIDAY Vintage Southern decor, classic craft cocktails, and bar within a bar—the Red Room—in a strip mall. 721 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.278.8728 Map K12 Irvine Improv Top comedy. Two-item minimum; Umami burgers. Irvine Spectrum Center, 572 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5 LA VIDA CANTINA Lively, spacious outdoor palapa bar dotted with fire pits. The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.612.2349 Map K12

Get the most out of Southern California with a lavish brunch cruise that pulls out all the stops. Soak up the sensational views and calming waters with free-flowing champagne. Enjoy a dinner or brunch cruise in Marina del Rey or Newport Beach and get $5 off up to 6 adults.

LOLA GASPAR Endearingly hip bar and kitchen. Open until 2 am M-Sa, Su until midnight. 211 W. Second St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13

hornblower.com • 949-631-2469 •

Marine room tavern Laid-back bar; live rock and blues on weekends. Open M-F 3 pm-2 am, Sa-Su 10 am-2 am. 214 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3027 Map H15

* 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 6/30/2017. Use code WHR5D

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TO U R S + T R A N S P O RT MULDOON’S DUBLIN PUB Cozy spot with fun Irishthemed events in the Celtic Bar. 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 Map L15 THE OBSERVATORY Live rock, alternative, jazz, blues and food. More acts in the Constellation Room. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.957.0600 Map I15 ROOFTOP LOUNGE Enjoy sunset cocktails, panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15 SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND LOUNGE Super-stylish spot opposite Segerstrom Center for the Arts is ideal for pre- or post-theater cocktails. 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 Map J13 STAG BAR + KITCHEN Convivial bar established in 1908 opposite Newport Pier. 121 McFadden Place, Newport Beach, 949.673.4470 Map N13 TIME NIGHTCLUB Club with cool decor, musical acts and big-name deejays moves to impressive new digs.

Open Th-Sa. The Triangle, 1875 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7103 Map K12 WILD GOOSE Cocktails, seasonal beers, creative sausages and burgers amid hunt-lodge-saloon decor.

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

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) Spectacular architectural achievement. Metrolink and Amtrak trains, OCTA buses, Anaheim Resort Transportation, shuttles, taxis and charter buses converge. There’s also a new oyster bar. 1750 S. Douglass Road, Anaheim, 877.99.

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

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

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TO U R S + T R A N S P O RT CATALINA FLYER Triple-decker catamaran is fastest boat to Catalina Island at 75 minutes. Call for schedule. $53-$70, $6 children 2 and under. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 800.830.7744, catalinainfo.com Map N15 CITY PASS Includes discounted admission to Disney parks, admission to others in Los Angeles and San Diego. $269-$306, under 3 free. 888.330.5008, citypass.com DANA WHARF WHALE-WATCHING AND SPORTFISHING Sportfishing, whale-watching expeditions and 82-foot schooner yacht for charters. Corporate parties, private fishing and twilight wine cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 800.979.3370, danawharf.com Map K16

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.

DAVEY’S LOCKER Year-round whale-watching, deep-sea sportfishing, fishing charters and boat rentals at Balboa Pavilion. 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 949.673.1434, daveyslocker.com Map N15 ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR Daily car rentals with some 25 locations throughout Orange County. Pickup service available. 888.484.4683, enterprise.com EXECUCAR Luxury service. Sedan and SUV, flat rates, special group services, frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.410.4444, execucar.com HORNBLOWER CRUISES Luxury party yachts.

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

Mariner’s Mile Marina, 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.0155, hornblower.com Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT Gateway to O.C., vastly superior to LAX in ambiance and ease of arrival and departure. Art exhibits; dining in Terminal C. Free Wi-Fi. Ticket counters open at 5 am. 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, 949.252.5200, ocair.com

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

Anaheim Resort Transportation

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 Sa 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

ART OF CONNECTING THE DOTS

TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Celebrity haunts and scandal sites aboard state-of-the-art bus. $53-$63.

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

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

where?

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The carefree way to get around the Anaheim Resort Discover the great dining, shopping and attractions along ART’s convenient routes.

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rideart.org RIDE

DINE

SHOP

PLAY

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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / orange

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Home-run fireworks at Angels Stadium in Anaheim.

866.800.1275

The Foundation Room at new House of Blues at Anaheim GardenWalk. p. 48

The new AG boutique at Fashion Island in Newport Beach.

855.658.8527

HydraFacials at Pacific Waters Spa at Hyatt Huntington Beach. 714.698.1234

Try-before-you-buy at The Cheese Shop at The Mix in Costa Mesa. 949.284.0558

Saisons and hoppy IPAs at new Gunwhale Coastal Ales in Costa Mesa. 949.393.2537

The Art of Dr. Suess at Narrative Gallery in Laguna Beach. 949.715.3082

Cocktails at new Mix Mix Kitchen + Bar in Santa Ana. p. 9

Contemporary jewelry at Blue Eyed Girl in Brea.

714.983.7782 Indoor climbing at Rockreation in Costa Mesa.

714.445.7625 Chicken waffles at Bruxie in Brea. 714.255.1188.

18

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Car Wreck Trail in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in Aliso Viejo. p. 56 The Spirits and Headhunters exhibit at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. p. 51 The Ride 7D interactive motion-ride experiences at Irvine Spectrum Center. 949.769.6772

27

Handbags at Cleobella in Sunset Beach. p. 25

Concerts at Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University in Orange. p. 50

Espresso, and avocado toast, at new KIT coffee house in Newport Beach. kit.coffee

The cookbooks at Chefs’ Toys in Anaheim. 714.683.2650

Baker & Olive gourmet pantry at Corona del Mar Plaza in Newport Beach. 949.759.1185

SEED People’s Market at the Camp in Costa Mesa.

714.708.2277

Browsing antique stores in Old Towne Orange. p. 29

Tacos at new Puesto at Los Olivos Marketplace in Irvine.

949.608.9990

The Hot Lei at Juice Served Here in Lido Marina Village, Newport Beach. 949.612.8228 Jewelry at new Gorjana boutique in Laguna Beach. p. 27 Afterburn Training at The 12 gym in Irvine. 949.222.9052 The Vegas vibe at Time nightclub at the Triangle in Costa Mesa. 949.722.7103

Kid-perfect Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach. 949.645.8489 The Cool Runnings cocktail in a pineapple goblet at new LSXO in Huntington Beach. p. 8 Rimowa luggage at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa.

714.662.6990

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

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,

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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