WINTER 2014 WHEREOC.COM
Orange County
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RICK BAYLESS’ RED O
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ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S NEW OZ
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DINING ISSUE BREAKOUT CHEFS...BREAK OUT! LATEST TRENDS—AND WHAT'S NEXT
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TRANSFORMERS all related characters trademarks of Hasbro permission. © 2013 Hasbro. © 2013 DreamWorks, Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. TRANSFORMERS andand all related characters are are trademarks of Hasbro andand are are usedused withwith permission. © 2013 Hasbro. © 2013 DreamWorks, LLCLLC andand Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. ©2013 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 13-ADV-13345 ©2013 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 13-ADV-13345
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where Orange County Winter 2014 the guide 34 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
54 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports
56 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities and exhibitions
59 SHOPPING Retail destinations
61 GOLF The county’s best courses
63 BEACHES + PARKS Paradise found
65 NIGHTLIFE Hottest clubs, lounges and bars
67 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around
69 MAPS Navigate the county
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House-made doughnuts at Haven Gastropub
city tours 22 24 26 30
Metro Cities The Coast South Coast North County
where now
features
8 Dining • Rick Bayless’ Red O • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Standing room only (no chairs!)
16 Breakout Chefs...Break Out! Three rising culinary stars whose restaurants are shaking up the dining scene.
5 A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR 7 HOT DATES Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz 72 30 THINGS WE LOVE
10 Shopping • Halston Heritage at Fashion Island • Parisian pair at South Coast Plaza
20 ______ Is the New _____! We fill in the blanks: the latest in dining trends, with an eye to those coming up right behind.
ON THE COVER Chef Eric Samaniego’s roasted beet salad with Brillat-Savarin cheese, candied walnuts and micro-mustard greens at new Little Sparrow in Santa Ana. See feature on page 14.
12 The Arts • Ceramics + cinema in Laguna Beach • Hamburg Ballet in Costa Mesa
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Welcome
A note from the editor
YOU ATE IT HERE FIRST
Dining trends don’t always start in Orange County. Just as kale replaces Brussels sprouts as the vegetable du moment on O.C. menus, for instance, cauliflower is already replacing kale in Los Angeles. (See our feature _____ Is the New _____! on page 20.) But the big trends—the ones that inspire franchises nationwide or worldwide—do launch here. For those, Orange County is ground zero, headquarters for dozens of the most successful chains. Mexican enterprises alone include Taco Bell, Del Taco, El Pollo Loco, El Torito, Baja Fresh and Wahoo’s Fish Tacos. Burgers? In-N-Out, Carl’s Jr., Ruby’s and the Habit. More upscale Fleming’s Prime Steak & Wine Bar and Yard House for beer lovers are also based here. Now here comes another trend: waffle sandwiches! Granted, Roscoe’s House of Waffles & Chicken is an L.A. fixture, and lots of L.A. restaurants have recently offered chicken-and-waffle dishes. But Bruxie, which started three years ago in Old Towne Orange and whose offerings go lightyears beyond chicken, already has seven locations, the latest in Costa Mesa; one of my more memorable recent meals was its hot-pastrami bruxie—with Gruyère, cider slaw, spicy brown mustard and half-sour pickles—followed by a Creamsicle float. Offerings at the Iron Press, another savory-waffle specialist in Costa Mesa, include a grilled pankocrusted tilapia version with habanero-mango sauce. At new Gaufree in Irvine, a gaufre with Louisiana tasso ham, Emmental cheese and garlic aioli is the runaway favorite. (Bruxie calls waffles “bruxies,” Gaufree calls them “gaufres.”) There are other new waffle spots, too. Though Roscoe’s is working on an O.C. location, L.A. appears to have been all but blindsided on this one. By the way, you can kill two trends with one stone at Gaufree: Its vegetarian gaufre is topped with kale. —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN WINTER 2014 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 5
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ExpEriEncE World-class shopping, dining and pErforming arts,
southern california style.
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Hot Dates Winter 2014 The Canadian cast of The Wizard of Oz
WHAT’S SIZZLING IN SECONDS FLAT
DEC. 13 KANYE WEST Winner of 21 Grammy Awards, among the most in pop history, the hip-hop artist, record producer, songwriter, film director and fashion designer appears at the Honda Center in Anaheim. p. 56 THROUGH DEC. 15 SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL WINTER FANTASY Local artists and artisans display and sell original jewelry, clothing, ceramics, woodwork and paintings in a festive setting in Laguna Beach. Plus art activities for children and adults. p. 54 DEC. 18-22 NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is the theme at the 105th annual event. More than 100 decorated vessels, from one-person kayaks to gorgeous yachts, light the harbor. p. 54 JAN. 5-FEB. 2 TRUDY AND MAX IN LOVE Play at South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa centers on an unconventional romance between two comical characters, a writer of young-adult fiction and a celebrity novelist. p. 54 JAN. 7-FEB. 2 RING OF FIRE “I Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison Blues” and 30 other choreographed Johnny Cash songs provide an intimate glimpse into the musician’s life at the Laguna Playhouse. p. 54
Feb. 11-23
Oz-mosis
CYLLA VON TIEDEMANN
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of The Wizard of Oz is an adaptation of, and commentary on, the beloved classic film. Developed from the MGM screenplay and reconceived for the stage, it contains all the characters, iconic moments and songs from the Oscar-winning movie—plus surprises along the away including new songs by Webber and Tim Rice. Click your heels together and join Dorothy and her dog, Toto, as they leave Kansas and—with Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion—journey through the magical land of Oz to meet the Wizard and obtain their hearts’ desires. The show is at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Consider it required viewing for fans of Wicked!, the pre-Dorothy story of the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the North. Watch out for winged monkeys! p. 60 NEARBY There’s fairly magical dining within walking distance. Leatherby’s Café Rouge is in fact steps away, inside the glittering concert hall across the plaza (p. 36), and Pinot Provence, also from the Patina Group, offers sophisticated French-Med fare inside the Westin South Coast Plaza (p. 42). For top-tier Italian, consider Pizzeria Ortica (p. 43).
Y
JAN. 22 ROYAL PHILHARMONIC Led by conductor and violinist Pinchas Zukerman, the London-based orchestra brings a program of Bach, Schoenberg and Beethoven to the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa. p. 56 FEB. 5 DUCKS VS. BLACKHAWKS The Anaheim Ducks, recent Stanley Cup quarterfinalists, complete the team’s regular season home play with a game against Chicago at the Honda Center. p. 56 FEB. 13 DEMI LOVATO The platinum-selling performer and X Factor judge brings her Neon Lights Tour to the Honda Center in Anaheim. p. 56 THROUGH FEB. 15 A QUEST FOR BEAUTY: THE ART OF VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Spanning 100 years of history, the exhibition at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana displays jewelry, watches and archival drawings from the celebrated jewelry house. p. 58 HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Visit our Weekend Roundup at WhereOC.com, where you’ll get the lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.
Both teams playing in this year’s Rose Bowl in Pasadena—considered the biggest game in college football—and 10,000 of their fans stay in Newport Beach for the event.
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where now Orange County
The best in entertainment, museums, shopping and dining.
» DINING
O Good! Red O, on the perimeter of Fashion Island in Newport Beach, features a menu by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, whose PBS series, books and acclaimed Chicago restaurants have made the Oklahoma-born gringo America’s preeminent authority on Mexican cuisine. The design at his newest spot is sexy and contemporary. Sophisticated specialities using high-quality ingredients include taquitos stuffed with crispy Sonoma duck in a tomato-chile de árbol salsa, halibut or ahi ceviche dressed in a cilantro-serrano “chimichurri,” and addictive pork-belly sopes. You’ll also find creative cocktails and an extensive tequila list. p. 45
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Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern in Dana Point
JFAT AND HAPPY Local restaurateur David Wilhelm has been on trend for decades, canvassing cuisines including but not limited to Southwestern (e.g., Kachina, Chimayo Grill) and French (French 75, Chat Noir). Without a restaurant in O.C. since 2008, he’s back with Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, aka JFAT, offering creative takes on regional comfort favorites at Dana Marina Plaza. It’s been packed since it opened— and everybody looks so happy! Highlights include a charred Castroville artichoke starter with rosemaryDijon aioli; the French Quarter boil, featuring shellfish and andouille in spicy beer-and-garlic broth; and steak frites, a flavorful grilled rib-eye with béarnaise sauce and thyme-and-sea-salt fries. Don’t miss the Bananageddon dessert for two (or more): fresh bananas, vanilla-bean pastry cream, pecan blondie crumbles, butter-pecan ice cream, salty rum-caramel sauce, candied pecans and whipped cream. p. 34
Standing Room Only Tables and chairs are vastly overrated when it comes to enjoying a meal; seating ranging from none to almost none doesn’t deter fans at these spots. Aussie-style bakery Pie-Not (270 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.650.7437) offers meat, veggie and gluten-free pies. Consider the Mary’s pie, with rosemary, garlic and lamb, and the Slice of Heaven dessert, shortbread crust topped with house-made caramel, milk chocolate and sea salt. Tiny yearling The Grilled
Cheese Spot (318 W. Fifth St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2235) is an indoor stand—you stand at a metal counter. Order a scrumptious house sandwich or build your own. There is always a line at somewhat downscale El Toro Bravo Tortilleria (745 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.631.4464). The tacos are generous, and the house-made chips may be the county’s best—in fact, you’ll find them on the tables at a number of more upscale O.C. restaurants.
The Drunken Cow at Pie-Not in Costa Mesa
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WHERE NOW Orange
County
» SHOPPING Fashion[Island]istas Fashion Island opens a bevy of new boutiques. Halston Heritage blends the legacy of the iconic luxury American fashion house with a contemporary edge for its ready-to-wear dresses, handbags and footwear. The style at Babakul (tweaked French for “hippie”) is chic and easy; think disheveled sexy and on-the-go idealism. Briana Rene offers women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories, with brands from Amsterdam to Australia. Seafolly is at the epicenter of Australian swimwear. Briggs & Riley Travelware at Sunsations features fine luggage and business cases. Consider a 10-minute laser facial at Skin Laundry! p. 60
Diptyque at South Coast Plaza
PARISIAN PAIR
Halston Heritage at Fashion Island
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When the Diptyque store first opened in Paris in 1961, it showcased fabrics but soon boasted a dazzling repertory of fragrances. Its new boutique at South Coast Plaza offers a modern take on the store at 34 Boulevard Saint-Germain. Berluti, at 26 Rue Marbeuf in Paris, tops the list for the most expensive ready-made shoes and boots for men; its only other U.S. boutique is in New York. Devotees have included Robert de Niro, Andy Warhol and Yves Saint Laurent. p. 61
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WHERE NOW Orange
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» ARTS+CULTURE Ceramic + Cinematic In his first museum exhibition, Adam Silverman: Clay and Space, the renowned ceramic artist creates a series of installations at Laguna Art Museum ranging from displays of his pots in various settings to video pieces. His themes involve the relation of art to nature and the forms and materials where land and ocean meet. Also running through Jan. 19, Ex•pose: Richard Kraft surrounds the viewer with an installation of 10 films by Kraft featuring idyllic scenes of nature side by side with urban views of Los Angeles, New York and India. The experience is less about geographic locations and more about the wonder of seeing. p. 59
Pots by Adam Silverman, 2013
Hamburg Ballet, John Neumeier’s Liliom
Following the tremendous success of the Hamburg Ballet’s production of The Little Mermaid, John Neumeier and his acclaimed troupe return Feb. 7-9 to Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa with the American premiere of Liliom. Neumeier applies his singular vision and storytelling skills to a dance version of a very poignant 1909 play, about a troubled carnival barker struggling to be a better person, set to an original score by Oscar winner Michel Legrand. Liliom earlier inspired director Fritz Lang’s only French film (1934) and the Rodgers and Hammerstein stage and film musical Carousel (1945), which featured dance sequences by Agnes de Mille. p. 56
BALLET, HOLGER BADEKOW
LOVE, CRIME AND REDEMPTION
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BREAK OUT!
THREE YOUNG CHEFS SHAKE UP THE COUNTY’S DINING SCENE WITH RESTAURANTS THAT REFLECT THEIR PERSONALITIES. BY ROGER GRODY
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breakout chefs...
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Sous chefs don’t set trends in motion, or at least they don’t get credit for it. Thus, a chef’s potential can’t be fully assessed until he helms his own kitchen, unburdened by the constraints of supervision. Here we profile a trio of chefs, unshackled and uninhibited, whose passion and talent are dramatically altering the culinary landscape.
NOAH BLOM > ARC In artsy shopping center South Coast Collection is Arc, a restaurant from chef Noah Blom and wife Marin Howarth that’s so retro it’s a genuine trendsetter. At Arc, locally sourced artisanal ingredients are prepared the old-fashioned way, passed over natural wood-fueled flames. Stacks of orange and almond wood lining the walls are part of the decor, but their creative impact can’t be overstated. “Arc’s culinary focus is on flame, flavor and finesse. Every item is crafted over an open fire in a kitchen where there’s nowhere to hide,” says the 34-year-old chef, who reports there’s not even a conventional range or oven on the premises. “There’s a primal beauty in cooking with wood,” Blom adds. “And you have to be constantly involved.” Arc is a throwback to the 19th century, and its freezer is used only for making ice, not for storing food. Obsessed with artisanal ingredients, Blom butchers whole pigs on-site; he uses
every conceivable part and cures his own meats. “This kind of cooking changes how we feel about animals and how we respect them,” says Blom, for whom “nose-totail” is more than a slogan. Duck scented with lemon and honey and slow-roasted in a cast-iron skillet that doubles as a serving vessel is a typical treatment of one of his favorite ingredients. The Arc menu is succinct; the chef eschews flowery descriptions that distract from the essence of what he calls “rustic farm cooking.” Yet having cooked with Michelin three-star chef Daniel Boulud in New York, Blom obviously appreciates classic French technique and sophisticated composition. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the best chefs on the planet,” he says. Blom bemoans trends such as molecular gastronomy that detract from the beauty of pristine ingredients. He sums up his own primal culinary style in three words: Dirty. Sexy. Happy.
Opposite: chicken, broccoli and cheddar-cheese casserole at Arc
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ERIC SAMANIEGO > LITTLE SPARROW
Agnolotti with roasted cauliflower, ras el hanout and cashews at Little Sparrow
influences. On a recent menu, Samaniego paired crispy veal sweetbreads with smoky eggplant puree, and plated ricotta agnolotti with roasted cauliflower dusted with ras el hanout, a North African spice blend. Although he dabbles in molecular gastronomy, Samaniego takes a measured approach to new technologies in the kitchen. “I understand and respect the techniques but am generally more traditional,” he says. The 32-year-old chef is the final person to touch every plate before it’s sent out to the dining room. And now that he’s no longer working in the shadow of a celebrity chef, Samaniego is becoming more comfortable schmoozing with guests. “I love talking to people who are passionate about food,” he says.
PREVIOUS SPREAD AND OPPOSITE, ANNE WATSON
Adding to the vibrant downtown Santa Ana dining scene—just a couple blocks from Playground DTSA (see next page)—is Little Sparrow, where chef Eric Samaniego is cooking bistro fare that is both interesting and approachable. In that Samaniego is a protégé of acclaimed L.A. chef David Myers, it’s not surprising he’s shaking things up. “What I learned from David is to be really improvisational. He taught me to never allow myself to be stagnant or complacent,” says Samaniego, who changes 80 percent of his menu every month. Cooking at Myers’ Comme Ça in West Hollywood clearly gave the young chef an appreciation for the comforting qualities of a brasserie. “I want our guests to forget they’re in Santa Ana and to feel like they’re at a bistro in Paris, San Francisco or New York,” he says. He applies sophisticated technique to dishes that are unpretentious but ambitious, adding various international
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Playground’s off-menu burger, considered by many the county’s best
JASON QUINN > PLAYGROUND Chef Jason Quinn opened the Playground DTSA—the letters refer to downtown Santa Ana—after winning the Food Network’s The Great Food Truck Race with his former kitchen on wheels. The Lime Truck’s eclectic, cross-cultural menu (e.g., poke nachos, mushroom poutine) reflected Quinn’s adventurous personality; his brick-and-mortar establishment adds refinement and complexity to the theme. Consider dishes such as Wagyu beef tartare with scallion-egg foam and Kurobuta pork belly bun. An incredible burger—always available but never on the menu, considered
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by many the best in the O.C.—is layered with caramelized maplebourbon onions and molten fontina and Gruyère cheeses. The Playground doesn’t indulge guests seeking substitutions, which has given Quinn a reputation for being uncompromising. But he doesn’t see it that way. “We won’t give it to you your way, but if you really don’t like it our way, we won’t charge you for it,” he explains. Noting that his menu changes daily, Quinn says, “Everything is experimental. Sometimes we hit a home run and sometimes we don’t, but we’re constantly learning.” Justifying his sponta-
neity, he suggests, “As soon as you write down a recipe, you’re admitting it will not get any better.... Here, we’re constantly searching for perfection.” Always looking for the next cutting-edge idea—much like L.A.’s Ludo Lefebvre or New York’s David Chang, the chef he most admires—Quinn rolled out a new concept next door to his original restaurant. Called the Playground 2.0, it’s a 17-seat “culinary theater” where Quinn or guest chefs offer invitationonly tasting menus showcasing luxury ingredients such as jamón ibérico or bluefin tuna. Most people would envy Quinn for
achieving success without ever having a boss to stifle his creativity, but when addressing the subject, humility washes over the brash 27-year-old. “I never had a mentor,” he laments.
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is the new
!
WE FILL IN THE BLANKS: THE LATEST TRENDS IN DINING, WITH AN EYE ON WHAT'S COMING NEXT BY ROGER GRODY What might be the trendiest ingredient in Orange County kitchens one year can easily be passé the next. Like Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, chefs are constantly looking for the next disruptive innovation—an ingredient you never knew you even liked and now can’t get enough of. Here we present the latest cutting-edge concepts, those culinary game-changers that are pushing last year’s trends off the menu. Kale Is the New Brussels Sprouts Chefs have been busy transforming vegetables we despised as children into the menu’s most fashionable ingredients. Bok choy was briefly glamorous; collard greens had their moment in the sun. Recently, every chef in the O.C. has been turning out Brussels sprouts as sweet as candy, thanks to generous caramelization and a bit of pork fat. As their reign comes to a close, kale emerges as the hot new veggie. Rusticity and sophistication meet at Juliette Kitchen + Bar, where a kale salad with toasted pepitas, cucumber, Thai basil, feta, Castelvetrano olives, baby heirloom tomatoes and Cara Cara oranges is dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette. At Pizzeria Mozza, the venture of baker extraordinaire Nancy Silverton and Iron Chef Mario Batali, baby kale is tossed with pine nuts, ricotta salata and marinated anchovies, the perfect
prelude to a pie topped with fennel sausage, panna and red onion. 320 Main—the Seal Beach eatery that just won a Golden Foodie award for mixology—proves that the green isn’t limited to salads, although it, too, offers one. More of a departure is its crispy, trufflescented flatbread topped with kale, shimeji mushrooms and three cheeses, a crowdpleaser whenever it’s available. Chefs are already seeking a new vegetable to tweak, and it’s looking like cauliflower may be the next kale. At Pita Jungle, tahini gives the caramelized florets fresh appeal.
Doughnuts Are the New Cupcakes Americans have had a love affair with doughnuts since their widespread introduction in the mid-20th century. Suddenly, however, they’re just as popular with the caffe latte crowd as with blue-collar workers dunking them into cups of joe. In fact, a bona
fide doughnut trend is beginning the same meteoric ascent that designer cupcakes made over the last few years, as innovative pastry chefs apply new techniques and unusual flavors. At Sidecar, chef/co-owner Brooke Des Prez uses premium ingredients including Valhrona chocolate and Madagascar vanilla to create gourmet versions of childhood memories. Consider varieties such as rose, geranium and blackberry; chocolate, peanut butter and banana; or malasada, a Portuguese import. Gluten-free and vegan varieties show that doughnuts can even be relatively healthful. For dunking, the shop offers Oregon’s small-batch-roasted Stumptown Coffee. Favorites at Devilicious Donuts include red velvet and inventive applications of commercial treats such as Oreo, Snickers and Butterfinger. A yeast-raised doughnut with maple icing and thick-cut hickory-
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Huckleberry doughnuts at Sidecar. Opposite: mapleand-bacon doughnut at Devilicious in Irvine.
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Lobster Rolls Are the New Banh Mi The banh mi, a product of colonial Vietnam fusing French cuisine with the flavors of Southeast Asia, has been O.C.’s coolest sandwich for a couple of years. Stuffed with various meats and pickled vegetables, the baguette sandwich emigrated from the cafés of Little Saigon to mainstream dining rooms and hip food trucks. But there’s a new sandwich in town, a New England coastal favorite that folds a mixture of lobster meat into a split hot-dog-style roll. New Englanders have debated for decades whether the crustacean should be tossed in mayonnaise (“dressed”) or drizzled in drawn butter (“undressed”), a rivalry approaching Red Sox-Yankees proportions. Usually sold from modest shacks in New England, lobster rolls are finding their way into upscale O.C. dining rooms. At The Capital Grille, a pricey steakhouse, lobster meat is tossed in creamy aioli, squeezed into a brioche bun and served with hand-cut fries at lunch. Slapfish, a Huntington Beach eatery specializing in boat-to-table cuisine, offers a variation: lobster and shrimp tossed in a lemony aioli (or a spicier sauce if preferred) on an overstuffed butter bun. If you don’t need the trappings of a restaurant, consider Lobsta Truck’s sandwiches, inspired
by Maine purveyors Red’s Eats in Wiscasset and the Clam Shack in Kennebunk. Follow the truck’s tweets for its current location.
House-Made Sodas Are the New Craft Beers Craft beers have been the hottest pours in recent years, with microbreweries popping up throughout the county and the nation. But another trend finds local chefs and mixologists experimenting with house-made artisanal sodas. In other words, the fun you’re having with that SodaStream machine you got last Christmas parallels a more sophisticated movement. At Arc, the cool South Coast Collection eatery at which virtually everything on the menu is passed over a live wood-fueled fire—there’s no conventional oven on the premises—bar chef Koire Rogers oversees one of the county’s best cocktail programs. His repertory includes grapefruit, elderflower-cucumber and sarsaparilla sodas, plus a house-made seltzer water that makes everything sizzle with freshness. He can also custom-make flavors depending on what house-made syrups are behind the bar. Pie Society, a speakeasy behind a Pitfire Artisan Pizza, creates its own grapefruit and lime sodas, which are incorporated into the bar’s specialty cocktails. Innovative Haven Gastropub in Old Towne Orange rotates handcrafted sodas including lavender cream, chamomile and a spirited but spirits-free cherry cola spiced with star anise, coffee beans and guajillo chili. Poke Is the New Ceviche O.C. diners have embraced raw fish, whether it’s carpaccio, sashimi or crudo. Ceviche, the Latin American dish in which the fish is “cooked”
in citrus juice, has been very popular, but an import from Hawaii is emerging as the favored preparation. Poke— cubed, uncooked fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed and chilies—has hit the mainland with a fury. At North Shore Poke Co. in Huntington Beach, chef Shawn Gole turns out a variety of styles. The Pipeline, made with shoyu (Japanese soy sauce) and scallions, is traditional; those who enjoy a little heat appreciate his Waimea sauce, a spicy mayo with masago (smelt eggs). Gole’s Poke-rrito combines two surfer culinary obsessions, poke and burritos; spicy marinated fish is wrapped in nori instead of a tortilla. The name says it all at House of Big Fish & Ice Cold Beer, which offers a monster selection of craft brews to wash down avocadostudded ahi poke and other globally inspired seafood dishes. At Newport Beach’s Bear Flag Fish Co., Hawaiian ahi poke shares a menu with Peruvian ceviche and Japanese sashimi. Hawaii’s beach/street food can also be dressed up for more refined dining environments. At Bluewater Grill, avocadolaced poke is elegantly served in a martini glass and topped with an edible orchid. From left: lobster roll at Slapfish in Huntington Beach; house-made sodas at Haven in Orange; ice cream at Creamistry in Irvine.
Juice Bars Are the New Starbucks There was a time when “I’m headed to Starbucks” sounded cool, but with 20,000 locations, Starbucks is just another megachain. Now, those in the know—who believe organic fruit produces more mental clarity and energy than does caffeine—head to juice bars that promise to detoxify your system while refreshing your palate. Making drinks
LOBSTER ROLL, ANNE WATSON. PREVIOUS PAGE, CHI-LIN PENDERGRAST
smoked bacon mixes sweet and salty. Doughnuts even appear on dessert menus at full-service restaurants: At Haven Gastropub, freshly made, still-warm doughnuts dusted with sugar arrive with Jameson whiskey caramel and Nutella dipping sauces. Enjoy your doughnuts while you can. A new trend is already disrupting the scene: Cronuts, a croissant-doughnut hybrid, called Dornuts at Pandor Artisan Boulangerie & Café.
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details KALE > Juliette Kitchen + Bar, 1000 Bristol St. N., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854, juliettenb.com • Pizzeria Mozza, 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.945.1126, pizzeriamozza.com • Pita Jungle, 1200 Bison Ave., Newport Beach, 949.706.7711, pitajungle.com • 320 Main, 320 Main St., Seal Beach, 562.799.6246, 320mainsealbeach.com DOUGHNUTS > Devilicious Donuts, 15435 Jeffrey Road, Irvine, 949.388.2688; 28601 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.388.2688, devdonuts.com • Haven Gastropub, 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680, havengastropub.com • Pandor Artisan Boulangerie & Café, 1126 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.209.5099; 5327 E. Second St., Long Beach, 562.856.7777, pandorbakery.com • Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee, 270 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.887.2910, sidecardoughnuts.com
from meticulously balanced, locally sourced, cold-pressed fruits and vegetables, these spots have no more in common with Jamba Juice than canola oil has with estate-bottled extra-virgin olive oil. At Ritual Wellness, you can detox with a blend of spinach, romaine, kale, celery, green apple and cucumber, then wash it down with alkaline water or cinnamoncashew “mylk.” At Living Juice, drinks such as Karrot Kick, the Beat and Green Genie can be part of a rigorous five-day cleanse. At the reclaimed-wood-clad juice bar at SoCo’s Birdie Bowl & Juicery, you can find a creamy but healthful cantaloupe drink or a virgin strawberry sangria.
Goat Is the New Pork Belly Pork belly, essentially a thick slab of premium bacon, started as a novel way to enjoy pork but soon became de rigueur on menus from food trucks to four-star restaurants. Now chefs looking for intriguing alternatives have discovered goat, a staple in Latin American and Asian cuisines that offers culinary versatility at all price points. Goat is the most widely consumed meat in the world, but Americans view it with suspicion. Open-minded chefs are drawn to it for its mild gaminess and because it adapts to a wide range of preparations and sauces. Available in ethnic restaurants throughout the county, goat is now showing up on mainstream menus. Haven Gastropub chef Greg Daniels constantly introduces new ingredients to his patrons; he’s offered curried goat stew and is now experimenting with goat meatballs at his Old Towne Orange restaurant. Meatballs are popular this season: Chef Yvon Goetz offers Swedish-style goat meatballs as a special
starter at The Winery in Tustin. The meat is hardly considered exotic at Binh Dan, a Little Saigon restaurant where you can actually enjoy a seven-course goat feast!
Snow Is the New Boba Boba emerged from O.C.’s Asian neighborhoods a decade ago to become a commercial sensation familiar to every kid in suburbia. The latest phenomenon: a shaved ice that truly resembles snow, distinct from Italian or Hawaiian ices. After success on Little Saigon’s edge, Snow Station opened a second store, in Tustin. Some 20 flavors of Eastern, Western and Latin inspiration include orange-cream, green tea and salted caramel. Thirty toppings include Cap’n Crunch and mango mochi pearls. Colors are intense at ultramodern Snoflakez: Honeydew is lime green, taro is a royal purple. Toppings include fresh fruit. Liquid nitrogen ice cream, a molecular gastronomic novelty prepared à la minute amid a dramatic cloud of smoke, may be the next snow. Irvine’s new Creamistry combines mad science with retro toppings. Poke at House of Big Fish and Ice Cold Beer in Laguna Beach
LOBSTER ROLLS > The Capital Grille, South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140, thecapitalgrille.com • Lobsta Truck, lobstatruck.com, Twitter: @lobstatruck • Slapfish, 19696 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.963.3900, slapfishrestaurant.com SODAS > Arc, SoCo, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561, arcrestaurant.com • Haven Gastropub, 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680, havengastropub.com. • Pie Society, 353 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.313.6335, piesocietybar.com POKE > Bear Flag Fish Co., 407 31st St., Newport Beach, 949.673.3474; Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7972 E. Coast Hwy., 949.715.8899, bearflagfishco.com • Bluewater Grill, 630 Lido Park Drive, Newport Beach, 949.675.3474; the District, 2409 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.3474, bluewatergrill.com • House of Big Fish & Ice Cold Beer, 540 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.4500, houseofbigfish.com • North Shore Poke Co., 214 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.9011, northshorepokeco.com JUICE > Birdie Bowl & Juicery, South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., 714.873.7479, birdiejuicery.com • Living Juice, 384 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.427.5154, livingjuice.me • Ritual Wellness, The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 949.354.5581; 2841 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 714.786.8922, ritualcleanse.com GOAT > Binh Dan, 10040 McFadden Ave., Westminster, 714.839.7050 • Haven Gastropub, 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680, havengastropub.com. • The Winery, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600, thewineryrestaurant.net SNOW > Creamistry, 3972 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.777.6627, creamistry.com • Snoflakez, 4255 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.943.9365, snoflakez.com • Snow Station, 9938 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, 714.531.7669; 622 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.730.8299; snow-station.com
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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 of $1.5 billion is 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. Henry Segerstrom and his family founded South Coast Plaza in 1967 on a lima bean field where as a youth he’d driven a tractor. Today, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. The state-designated tourist attraction boasts the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers, including Christian Louboutin shoes, Assouline books and new Brioni for men and Lanvin for women; superb dining options include Marché Moderne and The Capital Grille. It’s an easy walk to the “arts campus,” the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, South Coast Repertory and, in the not-too-distant future, Orange County Museum of Art. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts, built in 1986 mainly with Segerstrom money on Segerstrom land, includes 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall, presenting a range of genres including dance and Broadway musicals, and the newer Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall, a 2,000seat facility designed by Cesar Pelli that hosts events as diverse as tributes to Mahler and
Paul McCartney. There are two intimate venues within the venues, Founders Hall and Samueli Theater, respectively. Renowned South Coast Repertory, with three stages inside its David Emmes and Martin Benson Theatre Center, opened at its present location in 1978, also with Segerstrom family donations. Among Town Center’s professional buildings is one of the nation’s premier collections of outdoor art. Start, or end, at the 1.6-acre California Scenario (near Anton Boulevard) by sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Metro Pointe and South Coast Plaza Village—whose movie theater is often ahead of the curve with top foreign films—are a crosswalk away. All three retail centers are accessible from North or South County hotels, thanks to dedicated taxi and motor coach service, and Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner delivers visitors from San Diego and Los Angeles to the Santa Ana train station. To the west is the South Coast Collection of design showrooms. Of note to foodies is Surfas Culinary District, Arc restaurant and the farmers market on Saturdays. The hip OC Mix features 30 vendors including Deer Lovely and Stoned Jewelry as well as Shuck Oyster Bar and new Taco Maria. South on Bristol are The Lab and The Camp. The Lab is a center with shops you’d likely find on L.A.’s hip Melrose Avenue; menswear line Klein Epstein & Parker is new.
Opposite is the Camp, set amid woods, aluminum and piped-in sounds of brooks and crickets. Dining options include Ecco for fabulous pizzas, Taco Asylum for unusual tacos, Umami Burger and Wine Lab. Newly rebranded dine-and-play center The Triangle unveils several new restaurants including Saddle Ranch Chop House; highend Tavern + Bowl bowling alley opens presently. The Orange County Fair and Event Center hosts events year-round, the county fair in July and concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre.
Santa Ana
Hip, arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Cal State Fullerton’s Grand Central Art Center. A centerpiece of the East End along historic Fourth Street is the Yost Theater, now a concert venue. The area is filled with restaurants, such as Playground and new Little Sparrow, and bars. Historical highlights include the Queen Anne-style home of Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle, and the Old County Courthouse, a setting for numerous movies. Bowers Museum, founded in 1936, offers blockbuster exhibitions mounted with the world’s major museums. Visitors can also view pre-Columbian artifacts, Pacific Island art or artifacts from American whalers two centuries back; a real gem is its permanent exhibit of local history.
IRVINE SPECTRUM AND CONCERT HALL, EDWIN SANTIAGO; BOWERS, KIRILL POPOV
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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The Discovery Science Center’s mammoth tilting cube is perched seemingly inches off Interstate 5; a $62 million expansion and renovation now underway will nearly double the center’s size. Westfield MainPlace houses Macy’s, Nordstrom and 200 shops. Intimate Santa Ana Zoo, in Prentice Park, is home to 250 species and features a primate exhibit, African aviary and children’s zoo.
Irvine
Its Giant Wheel can be seen for miles along the 5, 405 and 133 freeways. But it’s the Irvine Spectrum Center’s 150 shops, many of them entertainment-related, top-notch restaurants including Cucina Enoteca and Paul Martin’s American Grill, and the nation’s most visited movie complex, that together draw more visitors annually than Disneyland. Irvine Barclay Theatre, at UC Irvine, presents an impressive roster of music, dance and dramatic events; there’s not a bad seat in the house. Nearby is the UCI Arboretum (Jamboree Road and Campus Drive, 949.824.5833). San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (Michelson Drive between Jamboree Road and Culver Drive, 949.261.7963) offers 10 miles of trails through coastal fresh-water marshlands. The Irvine Museum houses Joan Irvine Smith’s collection of California Impressionist art on the ground floor of an office building. The one developed corner of the Orange County Great Park offers a farmers market and other outdoor events, an arts complex and a carousel; you can ride 400 feet up in the iconic tethered orange balloon. The restored blacksmith shop and general store of Old Town Irvine (Sand Canyon Avenue and Burt Road, 949.660.9112), near Interstate 5, now house a hotel and restaurants.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa. (Opposite, left to right) Carousel at Irvine Spectrum Center; Bowers Museum in Santa Ana.
Irvine offers a relatively problem-free world carved from the Irvine Co.’s land holdings. The vibe extends to John Wayne Airport, whose pleasant ambience and ease of departure and arrival make it vastly superior to LAX.
Tustin
Forbes magazine recently listed Tustin in its Top 25 places “to live well.” The city, known for its fine parks and its century-old trees, has preserved many of its 1870s buildings along Main Street and El Camino Real. The District at Tustin Legacy, at Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, is a sprawling shopping center with scores of shops. Draws
G R E AT F I N D
include restaurants such as The Winery and Bluewater Grill, a cineplex, bowling at Bowlmor, outdoor fireplaces, a stage for bands and giant video walls. The nearby twin hangars are 1,000 feet long, 17 stories tall and have five acres of open space within each. The Market Place, on Jamboree Road off Interstate 5, is older and even more sprawling. Though it’s often referred to as the Tustin Market Place, part of it is actually in Irvine. The Marconi Automotive Museum displays 80 vehicles, notably Ferraris and historic open-wheel race cars. For bold items, see the where guide listings. For neighborhood maps, see page 71.
/ make it a habitat
➺The UCI Arboretum is a 12.5-acre botanic garden and research facility devoted to the
unique flora of coastal California, from Irvine south into Mexico, and other representative habitats. California collections focus on Baja, the Channel Islands, Mojave Desert, Otay Mesa, maritime succulent scrub and chaparral, oak woodland, grasslands and wildflowers. There’s an additional emphasis on the aloes and bulbs of southern Africa. Admission is free; hours are 9 am-3 pm, Tues.-Sat.; park in Lot 90. University of California, Irvine, North Campus, Campus Drive and Jamboree Road, 949.824.5833, arboretum.bio.uci.edu
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EXPLORING
The Coast
THE COUNTY’S PRIME BEACH COMMUNITIES INCLUDE NEWPORT BEACH, BALBOA, CORONA DEL MAR AND HUNTINGTON BEACH.
➺Newport Beach offers the county’s most pleasant shopping destination, countless fine restaurants and Newport Beach
Newport Beach and its environs have been called California’s Riviera. Sandy beaches and bougainvillea are a backdrop to yachts and dream homes, from cottages to some of the nation’s most expensive real estate. Its retail center is Newport Center, near Jamboree Road, Coast Highway and MacArthur Boulevard. Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s are anchors at elegant and relaxed shopping destination Fashion Island. Island Cinema offers leather seats and wine service. Halston Heritage, See Eyewear, Red O and Fig & Olive restaurants and a stunning Whole Foods Market are new. The Orange County Museum of Art, also in Newport Center, focuses on 20th century California artists 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 (North Star County Beach, 1 Whitecliffs Drive, 949.646.7725). Moe B’s Watersports (949.729.1150) offers sailboats, kayaks, pedal boats and electric-boat rentals; a guided kayak tour of the marshlands departs Sundays at 10 am ($15 includes kayak rental). There are also Segway tours of the Back Bay ($75). Newport Beach boasts the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, along
Coast Highway, is lined with restaurants, luxury-car showrooms and yacht clubs. Private charters and narrated harbor cruises, aboard vessels including luxury dining cruisers and romantic gondolas, depart from Mariner’s Mile as well as from Balboa Pavilion (see Balboa, below), and pass huge luxury abodes. All manner of boat rentals are possible, from canoes and kayaks to motorboats and surrey-fringed electric boats. The “beach” in Newport Beach includes two piers, Balboa and Newport, great sandy expanses and one of the cleanest and most colorful bike paths and boardwalks anywhere. The action never stops around Newport Pier, off Newport Boulevard on McFadden Square. The Dory Fishing Fleet leaves soon after the bars close in the wee hours of the morn; you can visit the open-air fish market after the sun comes up. The fleet, begun in 1889, is the last beach-side fishing cooperative of its kind in the United States.
Balboa
To reach the Balboa Pier, continue southeast on Newport Boulevard (its name changes to Balboa Boulevard at 22nd Street), turn right on Palm Street and park in the metered lot. The Wedge, where the peninsula meets the harbor jetty, is one of the world’s most famous bodysurfing and bodyboarding spots. Currents and riptides can be dangerous, so
don’t go in the water unless you really know what you’re doing. Watching is fun enough. On the harbor side of Balboa Peninsula are the Balboa Pavilion and a Fun Zone, marking 75 years, whose few remaining rides include a Ferris wheel. Try a custom-dipped Balboa Bar or frozen banana. Take advantage of the Balboa Bay Front Webcam at the 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 is transforming itself into ExplorOcean. Balboa Pavilion, a 1905 gabled, cupolatopped structure, is the depot for boat excursions: harbor tours, whale-watching trips and Santa Catalina cruises. As classic pop-song lyrics attest, Catalina, known for its beaches, buffalo and glass-bottom boats, is “26 miles across the sea.” The city of Avalon is 75 minutes away via the catamaran Catalina Flyer. The Balboa Island Ferry is a three-car shuttle between docks on the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, a tightknit community featuring charming cottages, shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Marine Avenue is the island’s only nonresidential street.
Corona del Mar
Heading south along Coast Highway takes you past Corona del Mar Plaza, where upscale destinations include Sienna Brown
SURF SHOP, EDWIN SANTIAGO; PIER, SARAH HADLEY. OPPOSITE: BALBOA, IAN WHITE
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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and Savory Spice Shop as well as new Beauty Collection and Sprinkles Ice Cream. Corona del Mar, whose streets are named for flowers, has expansive beaches and some of the country’s most expensive real estate. On East Coast Highway, just south of MacArthur Boulevard, is Sherman Library & Gardens, offering 2,000 plant species on two landscaped acres. Consider a repast at Café Jardin or the Tea Garden Crêperie. Coast Highway is lined with elegant design showrooms, rug dealers and boutiques. To find Corona del Mar State Beach, head south on Marguerite from Coast Highway, turn right on Ocean Boulevard, then follow signs to the parking lot below. You’ll find bodysurfing, volleyball, fire pits and facilities. Picturesque Little Corona Beach is just south. South of Corona del Mar is Newport Coast. Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers boutiques such as At Ease for Men and new Z Collection and Mastro’s Ocean Club, Bluefin, Javier’s and Tamarind restaurants. Nearby are Crystal Cove State Park, with miles of sandy coves and miles of trails, and gorgeous Pelican Hill Golf Club.
Huntington Beach
Surf City USA has gotten more sophisticated since 1963, when the Jan and Dean hit Surf City topped charts. Though Huntington Beach retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks, beachtown personality, shops along Main Street, fine-dining options and luxury hotels have resulted in a dramatic transformation. The action is near the water. Main Street is a promenade with lots of surf-wear and beachwear shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Tenants at The Strand, at Pacific
Balboa Island. (Opposite, left to right) Huntington Beach surf shop; Balboa Pier in Newport Beach.
Coast Highway and Fifth Street, include Forever 21, Rip Curl, RA Sushi and Bruxie. Adjacent to Huntington Beach Pier Plaza are restaurants including Duke’s and Sandy’s HB; the plaza often hosts street performers, art shows and live bands. A statue of a surfer at Coast Highway and Huntington Street captures the town’s spirit. The area offers three beaches: Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach are popular for surfing and volleyball as well as for fire rings and nighttime weenie roasts. Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve (714.840.1575), near Warner Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway,
G R E AT F I N D
offers 200 species of migratory birds in a saltmarsh setting with a 1.5-mile loop trail. Inland, at Talbert Avenue and Goldenwest Street, is 350-acre Huntington Central Park; the park encompasses Shipley Nature Center (714.842.4772), an equestrian center, a Frisbee golf course, two “lakes” and the city’s Central Library (714.842.4481)—which has the largest children’s library in the state. Bella Terra is a Tuscan-themed shopping destination. Draws include outdoor sports specialist REI, a 20-screen cineplex and new Solita for tacos and margaritas. For bold items, see the where guide listings. For neighborhood maps, see pages 70-71.
/ hommage a brigitte
➺As Dana Harmon sees it, 1960s French actress, super-model and all-around sex symbol
Brigitte Bardot’s style embodied the same beach-chic vibe that SoCal is known for—so she named her boutique for her. Bardot takes shoppers from a day on the sand to a night out with colorful apparel, footwear, hats and accessories. “I like the bright colors and prints that reflect the sunny atmosphere of Southern California,” Harmon says. “Brigitte Bardot was my fashion icon.” Brands include Current/Elliott and Equipment as well as local line Ceek jewelry. 2043 Westcliff Drive, Suite 103, Newport Beach, 949.515.2710
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EXPLORING
South Coast
COLORFUL CITIES ON OR NEAR THE COAST INCLUDE LAGUNA BEACH, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND DANA POINT.
➺Four of the county’s most historic cities are nestled into its southern corner: Laguna Beach, Dana Laguna Beach
It’s fitting that you pass Laguna College of Art + Design as you enter the county’s original art colony along Laguna Canyon Road. Admire the sculptures! In fact, it is easy to spend a day along the thoroughfare before ever entering the city proper, especially during the summer, when it hosts three art festivals— Festival of Arts, Art-A-Fair and the Sawdust Art Festival—and the renowned “living tableaux” presentation, Pageant of the Masters. Acclaimed Laguna Playhouse offers both comedic and profound fare year-round. Laguna Canyon Road becomes Broadway, then comes to a T at Main Beach and Coast Highway. Turn left toward downtown or right toward Laguna Art Museum and you’ll find galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Laguna Art Museum presents modern and contemporary art, mostly by California painters; often explores pop culture; and displays art from Laguna’s past, including lots of seascapes. Steps away are coastal vistas at Heisler Park and a stretch of Coast Highway called North Gallery Row, where you’ll find Hobrecht Sports Gallery (350 N. Coast Hwy., 949.945.3283) and Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953). Historical cottages dot the neighborhoods above. On a steep hillside is the Hortense Miller Garden (open by appointment, 22511 Allview Terrace, 949.497.3311, Ext. 426).
Main Beach gets action year-round. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a playground and a boardwalk popular with walkers and joggers, and one more major attraction: The beach is just across the street from scores of the shops and galleries that give the city its distinctive aura. Get deeper into the action in the downtown heart of Laguna, also known to locals as the Village. Must-sees include the sculpture garden at Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery (326 Glenneyre St., 888.972.5543). South along Coast Highway are dining options including hockey great Teemu Selanne’s new Selanne Steak Tavern, K’ya Bistro Bar at La Casa del Camino and posh Studio at the Montage.
Dana Point
Richard Henry Dana, the seaman who wrote 1840’s Two Years Before the Mast, described the area now named for him as “the only romantic spot” on the California coast, noting its “grandeur” and “solemnity.” The grandeur is still there, but you won’t find much solemnity along Harbor Drive, now bustling with boaters, diners, shoppers and those headed to see the tall clipper ships in port. In addition to its sand and shore, Doheny State Beach offers five acres of lawn. Families picnic, couples rent bicycles. An interpretive center focuses on the underwater Doheny State Marine Life Refuge. The beach hosts
events including Lobsterfest in June, a surf competition in July and outrigger racing in August. 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 square-rigged brig on which Dana sailed, docked adjacent 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, known for its oysters. North of town are luxury hotels featuring superior dining—Stonehill Tavern at the St. Regis, and Raya at the Ritz-Carlton—and pristine Salt Creek Beach Park.
San Juan Capistrano
There’s no beach in this burg, but there’s plenty of history, style and charm. And there is no passing up a visit to Mission San Juan Capistrano, often credited with being the birthplace of Orange County. It was founded
LOS RIOS, EDWIN SANTIAGO; LAGUNA, KIRILL POPOV; DANA POINT, IDRIS ERBA. GREAT FIND, KENDAL RILEY
Point and San Clemente along Coast Highway, and nearby San Juan Capistrano. Whether for shopping, dining, history or just tantalizing poetic beauty, these small burgs have spectacular offerings.
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by Father Junipero Serra in 1776, the same year America was born. It took nine years to build its Great Stone Church, completed in 1806; it took just a minute for an earthquake to destroy it six years later, killing 40 people. The priests left the ruins, a dramatic benchmark of the struggle to build California. The dome atop the nearby rail station was made with stones from the ruins. Priests still celebrate Mass in the Serra Chapel; the original adobe walls shelter a magnificent Baroque altarpiece decorated with 52 carved gold-leaf angels. The 10-acre site is filled with walkways, gardens, fountains and exhibits. Mission events include the renowned Swallows’ Day Parade in March. Just across the train tracks is the Los Rios Historic District. A stroll along Los Rios Street is a most pleasant experience; 31 homes, the earliest dating to 1794, look as they did in centuries past. Near the train station is the O’Neill Museum (31831 Los Rios St., 949.493.8444), home to the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. The Ramos House Café, in an 1881 board-and-batten house, offers an unforgettable breakfast. Camino Capistrano is lined with shops and restaurants. One of South County’s most popular taverns is the colorful Swallow’s Inn (31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188). For a different kind of nightlife, consider the nearby Camino Real Playhouse (31776 El Camino Real, 949.489.8082). San Juan Capistrano Regional Library (31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752) is a postmodern masterpiece by architect Michael Graves. San Juan Capistrano is the county’s equestrian center; luxurious residences, many with their own stables, surround the city. Eight miles east is Ronald W. Caspers
Beach in Dana Point. (Opposite, left to right) Sign at Los Rios Historic District in San Juan Capistrano, Brown’s Park in Laguna Beach.
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 grand, historic home you can see is Casa Romantica (415 Avenida Granada, 949.498.2139), once the residence of the city’s founder, oil entrepreneur Ole Hanson. It’s on a hillside overlooking San Clemente Pier and is 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 right at the pier. The best shopping and dining is on Avenida del Mar, lined with antique stores and galleries, and El Camino Real, where you’ll find the wine-country cuisine of Vine. Talega Golf Club, in the hills above the city, has a popular championship layout designed with input from Masters champion Fred Couples. Sundried Tomato is among the draws at Talega Village Center. For bold items, see listing in the where guide. For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 71.
/ green tree grows in laguna
➺Liz Ferrari, a fan of natural foods and products, wanted a one-stop shop for her family.
Frustrated with visiting multiple stores for organic goods, the Laguna Beach native opened relaxed and homey Green Tree General Store and stocked it with all her favorite products, among them Amala for skin care, Rosy Rings candles, Klean Kanteen containers and Will Leather Goods. Green Tree makes environmental consciousness as cozy as your grandfather’s favorite shop. Visitors can make their own air-plant terrariums or mason jar sets. 998 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8715, greentreegeneralstore.com
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EXPLORING
North County
ANAHEIM, BUENA PARK, ORANGE AND FULLERTON OFFER THEME PARKS AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS.
(Left to right) Angel Stadium and Anaheim Packing House
➺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 is beloved by children of every age. Since Walt Disney opened the main gate in 1955, families have made the pilgrimage, starting on Main Street, U.S.A.; today they explore eight lands, from Frontierland to Toontown. Captured in countless vacation photographs, iconic landmarks such as the snowcapped Matterhorn, Sleeping Beauty’s castle and the Haunted Mansion beckon even as new attractions debut. Enjoy Mickey’s Soundsational Parade and, in the Fantasyland Theatre, the live show Mickey and the Magical Map. Travel to corners of the universe in 3-D on Star Tours: The Adventures Continue in Tomorrowland. Sister park Disney California Adventure launched Cars Land, adding 12 acres and three attractions—notably Radiator Springs Racers—inspired by the Disney-Pixar film Cars. Guests enter along Buena Vista Street, evoking the era when Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles; Carthay Circle Theatre houses an elegant restaurant. World of Color wows nightly with choreographed fountains, lights, lasers, music, animation and Disney storytelling. The thrills never end at California Screamin’, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and, for the less daring, Soarin’ Over California, an amazing simulation of gliding above the gorgeous Golden State.
There’s no admission at adjacent Downtown Disney, though restraint may be necessary to avoid splurging in the lively promenade’s shops, cafés and entertainment venues such as House of Blues, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and ESPN Zone. Eateries range from fast to fancy, but none outclasses Napa Rose in the dazzling Grand Californian Hotel. Shop, eat and play some more at Anaheim GardenWalk, a still-growing collection of shopping and dining options in an outdoor setting. For indoor entertainment, consider bowling at 300 Anaheim, viewing a first-run movie at UltraStar Cinemas—some with motion seats—or shaking your tail feathers at sultry Heat Ultra Lounge. Nearby, The Ranch, a sophisticated restaurant and superfun saloon modeled on the late Crazy Horse, made the North County’s most smashing dining debut since Napa Rose. Boldface names and sports action are the lure at Honda Center, a venue for touring acts and home ice for the Anaheim Ducks hockey team. Its stage draws pop performers such as Rihanna; its ice hosts skating extravaganzas. At Angel Stadium, “the Big A,” major-league baseball rules when the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play; arena rock acts such as U2 invade when the team’s on tour; the Oakley store is new. Anaheim Convention Center unveiled a grand Grand Plaza; the Anaheim Bolts soccer team plays in the center’s arena.
New in Anaheim’s downtown is Anaheim Packing District. It includes the hip shops and restaurants of Center Street Promenade and Umami Burger in a former Packard showroom; foodie-inspired Anaheim Packing House opens soon. Muzeo is a small museum in the Carnegie Library building (1908). Anaheim Ice, training facility for the Anaheim Ducks, is open for public skating daily.
Buena Park
Roller coaster, Old West and boysenberry jam enthusiasts flock to Knott’s Berry Farm, a theme park with roots back to 1934, when farmers Walter and Cordelia Knott opened a roadside stand selling berries and a diner dishing fried chicken. Diners still feast on drumsticks and berry pie at Knott’s Chicken Dinner restaurant, and shoppers wander through the California Marketplace; both enjoy the Independence Hall replica (1966). Inside the park, a daunting collection of roller coasters separates the bold from the bashful. Xcelerator rockets to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds. Silver Bullet turns riders upside down six times. GhostRider is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters. Less hair-raising are the High Sierra Ferris Wheel and kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. Explore bygone eras without leaving Beach Boulevard. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament revisits an 11th century castle.
STADIUM AND FULLERTON ARBORETUM, EDWIN SANTIAGO; PACKING HOUSE, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH.
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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Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry starring Lipizzaner stallions while serfs and wenches serve a four-course feast. A banquet at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure fortifies guests for skirmishes aboard a replicated 18th century Spanish galleon in an indoor lagoon.
Orange
Old Towne Orange is often used for movies and commercials, thanks to its diligently preserved pre-1940 homes and buildings. Anchored by a picturesque traffic circle—oval, actually—at Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street, the district is on the National Register of Historic Places. It includes antique shops, cafés, lounges and restaurants. The Orange Chamber of Commerce (439 E. Chapman Ave.) offers a map of historic sights. Chapman University, one of the state’s oldest private universities, marks its 150th year. To the east are the bucolic hills of Irvine Park; its petite Orange County Zoo is ideal for wee ones, who also enjoy the narrow-gauge train. Big kids go for The Outlets at Orange, a collection of retailers at once high-end and discount. Draws include Last Call by Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Families fall like pins for hip bowling alley Lucky Strike Lanes and flock to Thrill It Fun Center. Teens can’t resist Vans Skatepark. Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove— formerly known as Crystal Cathedral—is a must-tour for architecture buffs. Philip Johnson’s striking structure has 10,000 silver-tinted windows. Also there are Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope and Richard Meier’s International Center for Positive Thinking.
Fullerton
Most visitors to Fullerton, home of sprawling
Fullerton Arboretum
Cal State Fullerton, gravitate to the historic core along Harbor Boulevard, with its endless supply of boutiques and watering holes. South of Commonwealth Avenue, a short stroll from the historic train station, are pubs, clubs, cafés and restaurants such as Hopscotch. Significant sights nearby include 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.
G R E AT F I N D
Back at CSUF, the Fullerton Arboretum is a garden of delights, with streams, trails, flowering plants and a restored Victorian cottage. A few miles east in Yorba Linda is the modest birthplace of Richard Nixon. The tiny home and an impressive rose garden are on the handsome grounds of the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum, a rich repository chronicling the president’s public and private life. Neighboring Brea, once an oil town, now takes pride in its Birch Street Promenade, which offers contemporary retailers, casual restaurants, cinema and stand-up comedy. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 70.
/ worth spotting
➺ With its chic and slightly hipster fashions for women, Spotted Moth offers something
of a contrast to Old Towne Orange’s antiques-dotted storefronts. Shoppers at the boutique can snag styles such as a funky, sheer kitten top as well as a perfectly geometric pencil skirt, and it’s all wallet-friendly. Complementing the feminine decor, which includes birdcage hangers tacked to dressing rooms, Spotted Moth also offers products such as perfume oil, hand-poured candles, facial soap, homemade jams, tea-party trays and mugs. 138 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.532.1585, spottedmoth.com.
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Sophistication
by the
Sea
Offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Las Brisas is proud to serve the freshest seafood, exclusive offerings of wine & margaritas, and authentic cuisine of the Mexican Riviera.
361 Cliff Drive • Laguna Beach • 949.497.5434 • lasbrisaslagunabeach.com
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where
the guide WINTER 2014
DINING
Fig & Olive Branch French Riviera-inspired, celebrity-adored, New York/L.A. hot spot Fig & Olive comes to Fashion Island in Newport Beach with its seductive ambience and Pascal Lorange’s acclaimed Mediterranean cuisine, which uses olive oils in place of butter. Shareable plates might include zucchini carpaccio or a trio of crostini; assorted charcuterie, cheese, olives, ceviche and tartar are served with freshly baked olive-oil fougasse bread. Among typical main dishes are pumpkin sage ravioli with Frantoio olive oil, seen here, and lemon sole papillote finished with an unctuous Arbequina olive oil. Enjoy it all with sangria, handcrafted cocktails or Mediterranean wines. For dessert, don’t miss the warm marzipan cake with olive-oil gelato. p. 44
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Dining SPOTLIGHT
American
Guidelines Restaurants are listed by city on page 50. Map locators
A RESTAURANT Stylish, nostalgic spot with redleather booths gives dishes such as beef Stroganoff, pot roast and scallops an of-the-moment treatment. Café/market adjacent. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 3334 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 $$$ Map N13
at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 69-71. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Conscientiously created dishes (warm octopus salad, hanger steak with zinfandel-beef marrow sauce, goatcheese cheesecake), excellent cocktails and striking decor with water wall. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4 ARC New. “Flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine (e.g., savory meatballs with garlic and whiskey) amid rustic-comfortapothecary decor; superb cocktails use house-made bitters, infusions, syrups, sodas. Two perimeter patios. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12
Chicano Cuisine An acclaimed food truck goes brick and mortar, and then some, at Taco Maria, new inside hip OC Mix at Costa Mesa’s South Coast Collection. There, chef Carlos Salgado, an O.C. native who spent a decade in San Francisco’s Michelin-starred kitchens, meticulously executes a concept melding traditional Mexican and creative American cuisines. The dinner format: four-course prix fixe, two choices per course, and not a taco in sight. Recent highlights: Pacific rockfish crudo with serrano chili and watermelon jam; quinoa fritters with goosefoot herb, ricotta and green tomato sauce; pozole with geoduck clam, mussels, brassica and Meyer lemon; and hanger steak with onion, quelitas and bone marrow. Viva la revolución! p. 46
BaCK BAY BISTRO Snazzy spot overlooking the Back Bay at the Dunes; retractable roof. Cancun-style shrimp cocktail, Southwest lettuce wraps, New York steak au poivre. B (Sa-Su), L (daily), D (Th-Su), Br (Sa). Newport Dunes, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.1144 $$ Map M14 Bandera Draws at the perennially popular spot include wood-fired rotisserie chicken and wood-grilled prime tri-tip; start with iron-skillet corn bread, finish with banana cream pie. D (nightly). 3201 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.3524 $$ Map M16 BAYSIDE First-rate New American fare at stylish spot with limited view of harbor canals. A smashing new interior update and sprawling bar and patio draw exec lunches, romantic dinners and lazy brunches. Live jazz; art displays. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.1222 $$$ Map M14 THE Beachcomber On Crystal Cove State Park beach; it’s like a weatherworn yacht. Roasted French feta; Prime flat-iron steak with wild-mushroomand-truffle mac; and Gimme S’mores! dessert. Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Shuttle from Los Trancos lot. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 Bistango Beautifully presented contemporary cuisine, extensive wine list, changing contemporary art exhibits and jazz nightly. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.752.5222 $$$ Map K14 THE BLIND PIG New. High-decibel lakeside spot with very creative cuisine—roasted king trumpet royal with coconut curry, fried plaintain, pickled daikon, mushroom “soil,” purple mint and cilantro is but one highlight—and superlative cocktails, e.g., African Flower and 50 Shades of Orange. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.0072 $$ Map east of D6 BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Popular spot offers creative “cuisine of the Americas,” e.g., roasted bone marrow with short-rib marmalade and marinated anchovies; seaweed-butter-basted Maine sea scallops with calamari risotto and piquillo peppers. 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234 $$$ Map H15 CHAPTER ONE: THE MODERN LOCAL Hip librarythemed spot’s new executive chef Jason Montelibano, ushers in Chapter One 2.0 with the Tuna 2-Step (creative preparations of ahi fillet and tuna tartare) and Little Fried Hen (actually braised) with ginger risotto. His lamb ragout and gnocchi topped a recent competition. “Culinary cocktails.” Open until 2 am. L, D (daily). 227 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.352.2225 $$ Map H13
Index
American.................................... 34 Belgian..........................................37 Brewpubs/Gastropubs......... 38 California..................................... 38 Chinese........................................40 Continental................................40 Eclectic.......................................... 41 French............................................ 41 Indian............................................42 International..............................42 Italian............................................42
Japanese.....................................44 Mediterranean..........................44 Mexican/Latin..........................45 Quick Bites.................................49 Seafood........................................46 Steak............................................. 47 Thai................................................48 Themed.......................................48 Vegetarian..................................49 Vietnamese................................49
CHARLIE PALMER Awash in sunshine by day, smartly lit by night, star chef Charlie Palmer’s space is superstylish, roomy and relaxed. Exceptional modern American dishes favor top-flight purveyors. Palmer’s wine shop Next Vintage and DG Burger are adjacent. L, D (daily), Br (Su). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.352.2525 $$$ Map D3 CLAIM JUMPER Craftsman-style spots offer rotisserie chicken, fresh fish, baby-back ribs, pot pie, salads, Six-Layer Chocolate Motherlode Cake and craft beers. L, D (daily). Seven locations include South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.8479; 7971 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.523.3227; 2250 E. 17th St., Santa Ana, 714.836.6658 $$ Maps J13, H8, G13 CROSSROADS AT HOUSE OF BLUES Southern hospitality and rafter-raising music. Faves: Aarón’s Citrus Chicken; shrimp and grits; jambalaya, lobster mac and cheese; St. Louis ribs. Sunday gospel brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.BLUE $$ Map I10 THE DECK Open-air spot serves breezy cocktails and beach fare such as burgers and baked clams, as well as a flat-iron steak and paella for two, steps from the sand. L, D (daily). Pacific Edge Hotel, 627 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6700 $$ Map I15 The iron press Waffle sandwiches—grilled pankocrusted tilapia with habanero-mango salsa; Belgian waffle with Nutella and fruit—and California beers. L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.426.8088 $ Map J12 Iva Lee’s Savory interpretations of Southern and Creole cuisine. Special Fat Tuesdays menu. D (nightly). 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente, 949.361.2855 $$ Map south of F6 JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN New. Local restaurateur David Wilhelm, gone from the scene since 2008, is back, offering creative takes on regional comfort favorites. Highlights: French Quarter boil with shellfish and andouille in spicy beer-and-garlic broth; steak frites, a grilled rib-eye with béarnaise sauce; and the Bananageddon dessert for two. L, D (daily). 24901 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.388.8900 $$ Map K17 Juliette Kitchen + Bar Superior New American fare and cocktails and adjacent wine merchant. Juliette Chung oversees the restaurant, husband Jon Hughes the wine, and daughter Erica Choir the pastries. The gifted chef is Daniel Hyatt. L (M-Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map J13
Ducks dining! Hockey superstar Teemu Selanne opens Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach (p. 48); Anaheim Ducks Breakaway Bar & Grill is at John Wayne Airport’s Gate 18 (p. 68).
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Traditional Italian Cuisine with a specialty in flambĂŠ
South Coast Plaza Village (714) 751-7153 | 3800 S Plaza Dr. Santa Ana, CA 92704 www.antonello.com
Unique Italian Food with a Mediterranean flair
Crystal Court (714) 540-3365 | 3333 Bear St. #118 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 www.nellocucina.com
Northern Italian Cuisine made especially for the American palate
South Coast Plaza (714) 754-0300 | 3333 Bristol St #1201 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 www.quattrocaffe.com
Let us cater to you!
Antonello's Specialty Restaurant Group offers
three unique restaurants that can accommodate anything from simple lunch or dinner arrangements with friends and family, to business luncheons, banquets and full-service catering. We also offer party trays for pick up or delivery!
Antonio Cagnolo, owner, chef, and manager, wishes to extend an invitation to you!
Questions or Inquiries? Contact our banquet manager at Antonello Ristorante (714) 751-7153
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Dining
S E A S O N A L . S U S TA I N A B L E . FA R M - F R E S H .
LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE Chic and sleek affair makes graceful use of its site within the glittering Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Cutting-edge cuisine includes menus themed to Broadway shows next door. Ideal for pre- or post-performance. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13 LITTLE SPARROW New. Eric Samaniego (a protégé of David Myers at West Hollywood’s Comme Ça) offers improvisational and approachable bistro fare (e.g., crispy veal sweetbreads with eggplant puree), a significant addition to the O.C. dining scene. Look for the CAFE sign on the corner. B (Sa-Su), L (Tu-Su), D (Tu-Sa). 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.265.7640 $$ Map G13 MEMPHIS Southern, Cajun-Creole and Southwest dishes in a hip retro setting. Start with gumbo or the pulled-pork sliders. L (M-F), D (W-Sa), Br (Su). 2920 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.7685; 201 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.564.1064 $$ Map J13, G13 NEWPORT RIB CO. Family-owned and -operated spot has offered “best baby-back ribs anywhere,” choice steaks and slow-roasted tri-tip as well as seafood, chicken, sandwiches and salads for 25-plus years. Full bar with sports TV; takeout from 10:30 am. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 2196 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.631.2110 $$ Map K12 OLD VINE CAFE Regional, seasonal and a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple french toast, beef-tongue panini or four-course tasting menus with wine pairings. B, L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 PALM TERRACE “New edamame,” prime-rib short ribs sous vide in California red wine and dazzling desserts served amid tropical urban oasis decor. B, L, D (daily). The Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 $$$$ Map L15
FAS H I O N I S L A N D
PARK AVE Owner-chef David Slay’s creative renditions of classic American fare feature house-made and homegrown specialties. Most produce meticulously grown on premises; visit the garden! Architecture is Googie, decor midcentury retro. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 PAUL MARTIN’S AMERICAN GRILL Restaurateur Paul Fleming (P.F. Chang’s, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse) opens spot done in dark woods, brick and balsa-wood chandeliers, presents menu featuring mesquite-grilled items. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.453.1144 $$ Map D5 THE PINT HOUSE Comfy bistro-pubs. Blackberrybourbon pork chop; house-made cheesecake with Fireball cinnamon whiskey caramel sauce. Craft beers, beer-infused cocktails. D (daily); Orange L, D (daily). 1547 W. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.633.7468; 136 W. Wilshire Ave., Fullerton, 714.525.7468 $$ Map I11, A3
9 57 N EW P O RT C E N T E R D R. , B E LOW I S L A N D C I N E M A L A R KC R E E K N B .CO M 949. 6 4 0. 670 0
COMING SOON: Second Location in Newport Beach! Where Magazine Lark Creek Newport Beach ad: 1/3 Square: 4 5/8” x 4 7/8” “Restaurant of the Year” for 2012 by the Orange County Business Journal “Restauranteurs of the Year” for 2012 by Southern California Restaurant Writers “Best Restaurant” for 2012 by Riviera Magazine “Chef of the Year,” “Best Wine List” for 2012 by Golden Foodie Awards
PLAYGROUND Chef Jason Quinn, whose Lime Truck won the Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race, offers New American small plates (e.g., Knuckle Sandwich!!!!!!!!, Jamaican Jerk Snow Crab), a tip-top-tier off-the-menu burger and craft beers. Adjacent new Playground 2.0 is a 17-seat “culinary theater” for exclusive tasting dinners. L, D (daily). 220 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 THE QUIET WOMAN Cozy, pricey local fixture serves sophisticated comfort food such as center-loin swordfish and baseball-cut steaks. The busy bar is open from lunch to close. 3224 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.640.7440 $$$$ Map M16 RALPH BRENNAN’S JAZZ KITCHEN Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz (beaded piano!) at spot inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo Ya-Ya, Creole calamari, bananas Foster. Beignets at Jazz Kitchen Express; romantic dining upstairs; casual meals downstairs. Downtown Disney, 1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.776.5200 $$ Map I10
Located at the District (at Jamboree & Barranca Pkwy.) | 2647 Park Ave. | Tustin, CA 92782 Please call for reservations 714.258.7600 | www.thewineryrestaurant.net
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f
prime steaks. Legendary service. Fine Wine • private dining • exquisite menu
Dining THE RANCH Sophisticated restaurant and super-fun, glittering saloon. Amid cedar beams and flagstone, chef Michael Rossi presents Kobe beef carpaccio with pecorino Romano, wild arugula and truffle; silver barramundi with white shrimp and Castroville artichokes; and bone-in cowboy rib-eye. Separate entrance for saloon. 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 $$$ Map I11 RAmOS HOUSE CAFé The county’s best breakfast, and one of its best restaurants of any kind, is served in an 1881 house steps from the train tracks in the historic Los Rios district. Soju bloody mary is a meal in itself; pain perdu is a specialty. B, L (Tu-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17 SADDLE RANCH CHOP HOUSE New. Rock-western experience with rustic, oversized bar and mechanical bull—look for the stagecoach on the roof! Extensive American menu with some south-of-the-border accents. B, L, D (daily). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.287.4652 $$ Map K12 SANDY’S HB Steps from the sand at Huntington Beach Pier. Gilroy-garlic-fried green beans; pecan-crusted sea bass; Prime flat-iron steak with chimichurri and marrow butter. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 315 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.7273 $$ Map N9
Santa Ana I 1641 W. Sunflower Ave. I 714-444-4834 Anaheim I 1895 South Harbor Blvd. I 714-621-0101 mortons.com
brunch. lunch. dinner.
SEASONS 52 No deep-frying. No dish more than 475 calories. Lots of flavor. Fabulous 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 $$ Map J13 SmOQUED California barbecue in Old Towne, all meats smoked in-house. Avocado fries with sriracha ranch dip; pulled-pork sandwich; St. Louis-style ribs; sauces such as habanero raspberry; pecan pie; California craft beers. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 128 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.7427 $$ Map C4 STONEHILL TAvERN Michael Mina’s urbane ode to New American dining, in shimmering room at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, turns the cozy tavern concept on its ear, bringing the ocean indoors via windows, mirrors and veranda seating. Stunning tasting menus by executive chef Raj Dixit. D (Tu-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3318 $$$ Map J17 THREE SEvENTY COmmON Chef Ryan Adams offers winning fare such as kale salad with stone fruit and pecorino; halibut with peas, mint, onion and preserved lemon; and apple fried pies. Family-style Sunday Night Social dinners. D (nightly). 370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map H15 TULSA RIB CO. Three-decade mainstay moves to much larger space. Highlights: tempura artichoke hearts, Cajun or Caribbean baby-back ribs, Tulsa potatoes, profiteroles. L (M-F); dinner (nightly). 220 E. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.633.3760 $$ Map B4 zImzALA Surfer-chic restaurant-and-bar at hip Shorebreak Hotel offers stylish “American/beach comfort” cuisine to match—and superb Cal-Med dishes. Br, D (daily). 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.960.5050 $$ Map N9
Belgian sustainable seafood & prime aged steaks. endless champagne brunch saturday & sunday. late night lounge thursday - saturday. happy hour monday - friday. private events. 714.979.2400
www.ScottsRestaurantandBar.com
3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa Ca 92626
BRUSSELS BISTRO Belgian menu, drinks, decor. Chicon gratin (endives, white sauce and cheeses), roasted salmon with pesto oil and Belgian stoemp; crepes flambés. All-you-can-eat moules frites M-W. DJs/dancing F-Sa after 10:30 pm. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 222 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.376.7955 $$ Map H15 BRUXIE The county’s original waffle sandwiches. Hot tickets: Pastrami Bruxie, Creamsicle float. Plus waffle fries, cane-sugar sodas, Wisconsin frozen custard. New in Costa Mesa. B, L, D (daily). The Strand, 180
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Dining
Tangerine Grill & Patio at the
Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 657.215.3559; 292 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3900; 215 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1188; 279 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 657.888.9892 $ Map N8, C4, A3
Brewpubs and Gastropubs AMERICAN TAVERN EATERY & DRINK Familyfriendly spot at Hotel Ménage with curvilinear bar. Chili-seared edamame; flash-grilled Caesar salad; cheddar-ale burger; chimichurri flat-iron steak. Plus tropical drinks—and view of Disneyland fireworks!— at outdoor Palapa Bar. B, L, D (daily). 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.758.0900 $$ Map I10 BLACK KNIGHT GASTRO LOUNGE New. Convivial indoor-outdoor spot with a dozen sports screens offers finger foods such as delectable eggplant poke, woodfired pizza and excellent flatbreads alongside wine, craft beers and generous cocktails. L, D (daily). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.646.2401 $$ Map K12 THE Crow Bar and Kitchen Cut-above creative fare, and outstanding selection of burgers, from James Beard Award-nominated chef John Cuevas, ex-Montage Beverly Hills. Superb brew selection. D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2325 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.675.0070 $$ Map M16 HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Vadouvan-crusted lamb belly with spiced rutabaga and house harissa; sticky toffee pudding with brown-butter-bourbon ice cream; and one of the county’s best burgers. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680 $$ Map C4 JT Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery Beers brewed on-site and brewpub cuisine. Wood-fired pizzas, Prime steaks, seafood, pastas and burgers share menu with jambalaya, fish tacos and sashimi. L, D (daily). 2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.634.9200; 2415 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.0333 $$ Map I11, C4 Muldoon’s Dublin pub and Celtic bar; gastropub food years before the word was coined. Off-the-menu Black Bush Stew with shot of Irish whiskey and baby lamb chop. L, D (Tu-Su); Br (Su). 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 $$ Map L15
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
1030 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim
714.772.1186
tangerinegrillandpatio.com
Anabella Hotel, located next to the Anaheim Convention Center and opposite The Disneyland® Resort, offers casual ambience and elegant cuisine amid Spanish mission-style decor. The imaginative menu uses free-range ingredients and locally grown produce; highlights include coconut-crusted mahi mahi, California tacos, and grilled citrus chicken with tropical fruit salsa. Dine on the lovely patio or inside in the beautifully appointed dining room. Happy Hour daily.
RokPRime STeAkHoUSe & GRiLLe
A STeAkHoUSe WeLL Done
SIDE DOOR Superb spot shares historic building (replica of England’s oldest inn) with dining landmark Five Crowns; regional accolades in 2011 include Restaurant of the Year. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322 $$ Map M16 SLATER’S 50/50 Design your own burger. Or try Flamin’ Hot, Peanut Butter & Jellousy or Fritos Crunch burgers. Signature patty is half beef, half bacon. Superior brew list. New in Lake Forest. L, D (daily). 8082 Adams Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.594.5730; 24356 Swartz Drive, Lake Forest, 949.460.9314; 6362 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim Hills, 714.685.1103 $$ Maps L9, E6, B5 Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery Celtic-themed pub near Honda Center and Angel Stadium with spacious patio and servers in plaid mini-kilts. Drunken clams, Scottish cheesesteak, Olde Dublin stew. Sports on 48 screens. L, D (daily). 1625 W. Katella Ave., Orange 714.633.5458 $$ Maps I11
California Cuisine Bambú Creative fare creatively presented in a fourstory atrium amid lush palms, orchids and bamboo trees; seasonal regional foods Asian, French and Italian influences. Four-course prix-fixe lunch. B, L, D (daily). Fairmont Newport Beach, 4500 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.476.2001 $$$ Map K14
SeAFooD • SoUPS • SALADS SiGnATURe SAnDWiCHeS CHoiCeST CUTS oF HAnD-SeLeCTeD USDA-AGeD PRime beeF Rok-CookeD on HoT voLCAniC RoCk USinG onLy ALL nATURAL AnD PURe CRySTALine HimALAyAn SALTS
31761 CAmino CAPiSTRAno SAn JUAn CAPiSTRAno RokPRime.Com 949 236 6669
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Dining THE CALIFORNIAN Contemporary, elegant finedining room with creative cuisine, ocean views. Roastedchicken tortilla soup; pan-seared salmon with gremolata crust; goat-cheese cheesecake. B, L, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.1234 $$ Map N9 gREENLEAF gOURmET CHOPSHOP Healthful, flavorful menu includes lemongrass chicken salad; turkey melt on pretzel bread. Wine bar; soju-based cocktails. Artisan goods in adjoining market. New at South Coast Collection. B, L, D (daily). 234 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.200.3950; 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.862.2480 $ Map L12, J12 K’YA BISTRO BAR Handsome bistro at La Casa del Camino hotel offers expansive selection of small plates and wines by the glass. Wild Hawaiian poke, goat cheese-fennel-orange salad, grilled filet mignon, truffle risotto and lobster macaroni ’n’ cheese. B, L, D (daily). La Casa del Camino, 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.9718 $$ Map I15 LARK CREEK New. Huntington Beach native chef offers coastal cuisine as nutritional as it is flavorful—and prettily presented—below Island Cinemas at Fashion Island. Steaks and fish grilled over a wood fire, salads, sandwiches and pastas prepared with local ingredients. L, D (daily). 967 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.6700 $$ Map L15 LEmONADE New. Seasonal Southern California comfort food in a fast-casual cafeteria setting. An array of distinctive salads, sandwiches, slow-simmered stews— and several lemonades, of course! L, D (daily). 987 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.7525 $ Map L15
C A S U A L , M O D E R AT E LY P R I C E D
>
NAPA ROSE Wine country at the Disney Resort. Stunning celebration of beauty in the bottle and the bounty of nature; ace chef Andrew Sutton conjures sophisticated seasonal American dishes. The stylish setting has a relaxed air; the polished staff includes dozens of sommeliers. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.635.2300 $$$ Map I10
O P E N 7 DAYS
ONOTRIA WINE COUNTRY CUISINE Ristorante honors wine with Italian dishes concocted especially to flatter fine varietals (onotria translates to “land of vines”). Dishes are seasonal and game is a specialty. The wine list runs 40 pages. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2831 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.641.5952 $$ Map J1 SEALEgS WINE BAR Seasonal California share plates—e.g., Pig and Fig Flatbread, Stinky Fries, Banana Foster French Toast—plus limited-production wines and craft beers amid Hamptons-style nautical decor. D (nightly), Br (Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.536.5700 $$ Map M9
come in
get hooked
Voted Best Seafood in Orange County! Full bar and patio featuring classic and contemporary seafood specialties! N E W P O RT B E AC H
THE DISTRICT IN TUSTIN
REDONDO BEACH
630 Lido Park Drive (949) 675 3474
2409 Park Avenue (714) 258 3474
665 North Harbor Drive (310) 318 3474
SHADES Casual elegance, deft Cal-Continental menu and ocean views make this a popular steak (boutique ranch meats) and seafood destination. Lavish brunch (unlimited crab legs!) on poolside patio. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Waterfront Hilton, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.8444 $$ Map N9 SILvER TRUmPET Musically themed restaurant and bar opposite Segerstrom Center for the Arts, ideal for pre- or post-theater repasts. Seasonally driven fare, house-made pastries and desserts. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Avenue of the Arts Wyndham Hotel, 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 $$ Map J13 6IX PARK gRILL Applewood-fired grill fare in airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows and garden terrace. Roasted-chicken tortilla soup; grilled diver scallops with coconut bacon rice, broccoli rabe and butternut squash beurre blanc. B, L, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6666 $$ Map J14
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Photo: Jim Collins
Dining Splashes Restaurant and Bar Indoors by the fireplace or on the patio steps from the sand, the water’s-edge Pacific view provides a dramatic backdrop for meals meant to be gorgeous memories. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Surf & Sand Hotel, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.4477, Ext. 550 $$$ Map H15 Studio Airy bluff-top Arts and Crafts-style bungalow with stunning azure and endless Pacific view oozes an offhand luxury befitting its premium resort setting. Chef Craig Strong reaches far beyond the predictably posh with an ambitious menu of creative Cal-French cuisine. D (Tu-Su). Montage Resort & Spa, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 866.271.6953 $$$$ Map I16 Sundried Tomato CafE Eclectic, bold Cal-Med. Creamy sun-dried-tomato soup with Gorgonzola; crispy blackened-chicken spring rolls; chopped salad. 361 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3312 (L, D daily); 31781 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.1167 (L, D daily; Br Sa-Su); 821 Via Suerte, San Clemente, 949.388.5757 (L, D daily; Br Su). $$ Map H15, I17, K17 Tabu Grill Local in-spot/Zagat high scorer brings on new chef Rayne Frey, who continues its winning ways. D (nightly). 2892 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.7743 $$$ Map I16 Tangerine Grill Find culinary California adventure opposite Disney’s California Adventure. Consider tangerine chicken, tangerine scallops or Malibu culotte steak. B, L, D (daily). Anabella Hotel, 1030 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.772.1186 $$ Map I10 the Twisted vine Cozy neighborhood wine bar offers winning savory and sweet small plates. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 127 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.871.1200 $ Map B3 Vine Laid-back beach burg takes wine-country detour at top spot for poised California cuisine and enlightened wine selections. Surfer-chef-owner Justin Monson’s seasonal cookery suits the hand-hewn space. St. Roy Chef’s Pub is adjacent. D (Tu-Sa). 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2079 $$$ Map south of F6 Vue “Forward-thinking California coastal cuisine” on a bluff overlooking Dana Point Harbor. Outside, the ocean breeze and fire pit add to the romantic ambience. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.5000 $$$ Map J16 THE WINERY Chef-partner Yvon Goetz offers superior contemporary California regional cuisine at handsome, bustling spot at the District at Tustin Legacy. The freshest seafood, wild game and USDA Prime steaks; 7,000-bottle wine cellar. Excellent bar menu. Opens soon in Newport Beach. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600 $$$ Map J14
Chinese CAPITAL SEAFOOD More than 100 kinds of dim sum, offered from pushed steam carts at lunch, plus Asian tapas, clay-pot items, tofu, noodles and congees at Irvine Spectrum Center. L, D (daily). 85 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.788.9218; 2700 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949.252.8188 $$ Map D5, J14 P.F. CHANG’S Chinese-fusion dishes—Shanghai Waldorf salad was a recent seasonal special—served in an upscale, casual setting; the Irvine location recently got a striking remodel. L, D daily. 1145 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.759.9007; 61 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.453.1211 $$ Map L15, D5
Waterfront Dining and Drinks
Woody’s Wharf Lunch Mon-Sat 11am-4pm :: Dinner Mon-Sun 4pm-10pm Waterfront Dining Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm :: DJ Thurs-Sat 10 pm-close
BRUNCH
LUNCH
DINNER
Bottomless Champagne Brunch Sat-Sun 10am-4pm
2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, CA 92663 been a Newpor t Beach:: landmark since 949.675.0474 woodyswharf.com
Woody’s Wharf has 1965. Join us for award winning cuisine featuring the freshest seafood, poultry and prime beef available anywhere on the coast. Our waterfront location and casual, fun atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience. Our renowned Sunday brunch with bottomless champagne draws large local crowds looking for an easygoing afternoon. Woody’s Wharf is one of the few restaurants on Newpor t Harbor hosting guests in our own boat docks. Boaters can tie up and be served in our restaurant or on their own boat. Our patio offers the finest outdoor dining on the harbor for those looking for a great view while enjoying award winning food. Our enter tainment includes karaoke on Tuesday evenings and live music with DJ’s on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Continental Five Crowns Venerated Lawry’s spot in English inn replica gets new decor, new chef, new dishes. Prime rib and other favorites stay. Superb SideDoor Gastropub is adjacent. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331 $$$ Map M16
Lunch 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Dinner 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM Sunday Champagne Brunch 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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2318 Newport Blvd. Newport Beach, CA 92663 10/30/13
1:58 PM
Experience a FRESH APPROACH
Dining THE HOBBIT Dinners are a transporting experience at this homey hacienda revered for special occasions. Multicourse prix-fixe affair includes cocktails upstairs, elaborate appetizers in the wine cellar, new Continental classics in newly redone elegant dining rooms. Menu changes weekly. Reservations are essential. D (W-Su). 2932 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.1972 $$$$ Map J11 NIEUPORT 17 Spot attracts fine-diners and aviators. Amazing collection of aviation memorabilia on the walls; German hunt lodge decor. Beef Wellington, aged handcut steaks, prime rib, seafood. “Aviation” pop-up dinners. Live entertainment and vintage cocktails in the Barnstormer Lounge. L (M-F), D (nightly). Lafayette Plaza, 13051 Newport Ave., Tustin, 714.731.5130 $$ Map C4
JOIN US FOR OUR
FAMOUS HAPPY HOUR!
IRVINE 2000 MAIN ST. (949) 756-0505
LOS ANGELES 4TH & HOPE (213) 629-1929
EL SEGUNDO 2101 ROSECRANS AVE. (310) 416-1123
PASADENA 111 N. LOS ROBLES (626) 405-0064
ANAHEIM 321 WEST KATELLA AVE. (714) 535-9000
BEVERLY HILLS 206 NORTH RODEO DR. (310) 859-0434
www.mccormickandschmicks.com
A French Bistro �Bakery
ORANgE HILL Hilltop hideaway with endless citylight views; traditional and updated fare includes seafood, prime rib, lobster. Orange Bar has retro orange theme and orange piano. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.2910 $$ Map C5 21 OCEANFRONT Romantic restaurant offers sunset views, cozy bars, classic decor, award-winning wine list, servers in black tie and menu featuring abalone, oysters Rockefeller, jumbo prawns and superb crab legs. Topnotch steaks and osso buco, too. Live entertainment in the lounge. D (nightly). 2100 W. Oceanfront (Newport Pier), Newport Beach, 949.673.2100 $$$ Map N13
Eclectic mIX Executive chef Kyung Soo Carroll offers imaginative, often organic “classical French and nuevo American fusion” cuisine in the atrium lobby of the Hilton Anaheim. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10 SAPPHIRE LAgUNA Chef Azmin Ghahreman offers globally inspired dishes at his stylish restaurant and lounge. Gourmet pantry for picnic and takeout. The popular patio has a partial ocean view. L (M-F), D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15 STARFISH Culinary concept by Nancy Wilhelm, owner of Zagat-topping Tabu Grill, offers “AmerAsian” cuisine—American takes on cuisines of Thailand, Vietnam, China, Korea and India with a nice lacing of heat—amid Asian art deco decor. L (W-Sa), D (daily). 30832 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9200 $$$ Map I16
Featuring fresh soup, sandwiches, salads, pasta and French specialties served in a casual dining atmosphere.
Serving Breakfast, Lunch � Dinner
TRUE FOOD KITCHEN Healthful-living author Andrew Weil presents globally inspired, locally sourced dishes in cheery room and on inviting patio with linear fire pit. More healthful cocktails; biodynamic wines. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 451 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.2400 $$$ Map L15
French BRASSERIE PASCAL Venerated Pascal Olhats offers croque monsieur, steak tartare with fries, seafood vol-auvent, côte de bœuf with béarnaise-truffle sauce. Prix-fixe “best of Pascal” dinner menus in new Tradition Room Tu-Th. L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2700 $$ Map L15 THE CELLAR Subterranean setting at 1920s-era California hotel oozes with character, straddles categories with its modern European fare. Three B Hash; chateaubriand; chocolate soufflé. Late-night lounge Tues.-Sun. until 2 am. D (Tu-Su) 305 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.525.5682 $$$ Map A3
South Coast Plaza Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714-557-1734 www.viedefrance.com
gEmmELL’S Fine chef Byron Gemmell serves up fairly traditional French fare and adds California touches. Casserole of escargots; hearts of palm and crab; roasted duck. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 34471 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.234.0063 $$$ Map K16
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Dining mARCHé mODERNE Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia raise the bistro to delicious heights with their unstuffy but oh-so-French effort. He revels in what’s seasonal. Dessert? Exquisite cheeses or Amelia’s transcendent desserts. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map D3 PANDOR Boulangerie-café. Artisan breads, viennoiserie pastries, salads, quiches, sandwiches (croque monsieur, open-faced tartines, panini, Parisian macarons and half croissant-half doughnut “dornuts.” B, L, D (daily). 1126 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.209.5099. $$ Map M13 PINOT PROvENCE Sophisticated French-Med dishes and decor from Patina Group favored for executive lunches, pre-theater dinners, brunch and special occasions. Charming walled patio. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Westin South Coast Plaza, 686 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.444.5900 $$$ Map J13 vIE DE FRANCE Classic onion soup, breads and pastries baked fresh daily, sandwiches made to order, desserts homemade at charming bistro and bakery. B, L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.1734 $ Map J13
Indian CLAY OvEN Globe-trotting owner offers regional and creative Indian cuisine. Samosa triplets; habanero shrimp vindaloo; goat curry; tandoori venison. L, D (daily). 15435 Jeffrey Road, Irvine, 949.552.2851 $$ Map D5 ROYAL KHYBER Acclaimed spot, often cited as the county’s best Indian, marks 30 years. Warm eggplant salad; lobster masala; signature Khyber’s Nectar, lamb shanks simmered 14 hours with aromatic spices. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza Village, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13 TAmARIND Sibling to London’s Michelin-starred spot serves Moghul-derived tandoor-oven favorites and seasonal fare. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Promenade, 7862 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.8338 $$$ Map J13
International
Home Sweet Home .
mARRAKESH Moroccan multicourse prix-fixe feasts including b’stilla (phyllo-chicken pie), sans silverware. Great value. Belly dancing (W-Su). D (nightly). 1976 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.645.8384 $$ Map L13 mOzAmBIQUE African fortress gone hip and stylish. Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine. Piri piri chicken livers or prawns, chop house sirloin steak. Veranda rooftop dining. Casual spinoff in Newport Beach. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777; the Bluffs, 1332 Bison Ave., Newport Beach, 949.718.0956 $$ Map I15, E4
Italian ANAHEIm WHITE HOUSE Italian steakhouse in restored 1909 manor; romantic setting, refined cuisine elaborately presented and impeccably served amid fresco recreations. White chocolate salmon; peppered hanger steak; game dishes. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.1381 $$$ Map I10 ANDREA Elegant but unstuffy, spectacular views of elysian vistas and the ocean, superb regional northern Italy cuisine. Pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L, D (daily). Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 949.467.6800 $$$$ Map L17 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE Top-notch, romantic northern Italian restaurant in faux villa has new Enoteca Lounge and bar menu. Don’t miss the osso buco with risotto milanese. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.751.7153 $$$ Map J13
Open 24 Hrs! FREE Wi-Fi!
1500 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim (Across the street from Disneyland® Resort)
FREE WI-FI • OPEN 24 HOURS
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Dining canaletto Venetian-style restaurant features superb salumeria, antipasti, wood-fired pizzas and specialty meat and seafood dishes—think vermicelli Cassopipa with fish ragu, clams, mussels, scallops and grape tomatoes. L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 545 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.0900 $$$ Map M16
Dornuts
The East Coast may have Cronuts, but only Pandor has Try our New while they last! Chocolate – Custard – Plain
Dornuts
cucina enoteca California-inspired Italian classics and wine shop amid fun decor. Vasi (filled minimason jars), stuffed squash blossoms, veal piccata, short-rib pappardelle, foraged-mushroom and truffleoil pizza. Wines are retail plus $10. L, D (daily), Br (Su). Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222 $$ Map D5 ECCO Cozy, hip spot serves up goat-cheese-stuffed squash blossoms; sophisticated wood-fired pizzas, among O.C.’s best; ricotta gnocchi with grilled prawns; pork porterhouse saltimbocca; sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic and chilies. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.444.ECCO $$ Maps J13 FRANCOLI GOURMET Convivial, handsome northern Italian destination takes a quantum leap in quality, both in style (e.g., ornate orange-glass chandelier) and cuisine since its move to Old Towne Orange. B, L, D (daily). 100 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.288.1077 $$ Map C4
St. Maxime, FR • Newport Beach • Belmont Shore 1126-A Irvine Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92660 • 7am to 8pm Daily • 949.209.5099 ______________ 5327 E. 2nd Street, Long Beach, CA 90803 • 6am to 10pm Daily • 562.856.7777 ______________ WWW.PANDORBAKERY.COM B R E A K F A S T | L U N C H | D I N N E R | C A T E R I N G A VA I L A B L E
il barone ristorante Chef Franco Barone and wife Donatella offer distinctive fare at stylish spot hidden near John Wayne Airport. Modern-art-filled room reflects his sophisticated side, tripe his rustic Sicilian roots. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 4251 Martingale Way, Newport Beach, 949.955.2755 $$ Map K14 Il dolce pizzeria Artisanal, authentic Naples-style pizzas and pastas in modest spot at busy intersection. The simple pepperoni pizza may be the county’s best; the pistachio pizza, with Parmesan, red onions, rosemary and Gruyère, is a more unusual delight. L, D (daily). 1902 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.200.9107 $$ Map J14 Il Fornaio Upscale casual trattoria and bakery features crusty fresh bread, house-made and imported pastas, wood-fired pizzas and roasted meats in a romantic atmosphere. L (M-Sa); D (nightly). 18051 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.261.1444 $$$ Map J14 Il GARAGE Beguiling Italian spot from David Slay, of acclaimed ParkAve, in a garage, amid a 1924 tractor and red-checkered tablecloths; it overlooks the garden that inspires and supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 Mare Culinary Lounge Chef-owner Allessandro Pirozzi tops his fine Cucina Alessa locations at glittery new spot. Infused pastas include limoncello-infused mafaldine pasta with lobster tail, shallots and pinotgrigio local-lemon sauce. B, L, D (daily). 696 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9581 $$$ Map H15
Spectacular Waterfront Dining Fresh Fish • Prime Rib • Steaks Relax in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance while you savor the culinary delights that make Chart House legendary. Fantastic Happy Hour A S K Y O U R H OT E L A B O U T Y O U R F R E E A P PE T I Z E R O R D E S S E RT
34442 St. of the Green Lantern • Dana Point • 949.493.1183 chart-house.com
Nello Cucina Italian steakhouse plus thin-crust pizzas and innovative pastas in South Coast Plaza’s Bear Street wing; sibling to Antonello Ristorante. L, D (daily). 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.3365 $$ Map J13 PIZZERIA MOZZA Culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich replicate their L.A. and Singapore collaborations. Pizzas use beguiling ingredients, distinctive dough. Start with fried squash blossoms or bone marrow al forno; end with caramel copetta with marshmallow sauce and Spanish peanuts. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Spot owned by L.A. chef David Myers (Comme Ça) offers refined authentic Neapolitan fare using intriguing ingredients beneath soaring arched ceilings and frescoes. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13
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Dining ZOV’S BISTRO Zov Karamardian’s culinary passion propels her spots. Acclaimed Med cuisine at all locations; bakery-café in Tustin also offers jewel-like desserts and premium breads. L, D (M-Sa). 3915 Portola Parkway, Irvine, 714.734.9687; Enderle Center, 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin, 714.838.8855; 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast, 949.760.9687 $$$ Map C5, C4, L17
Mexican/Latin EL ADOBE California historical landmark serving traditional Mexican fare is housed in two structures, one a 1797 adobe, the other the 1812 jail. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1163 $$ Map I17 EL CORAZON DE COSTA MESA New at the Triangle. Palapas and fire pits on the patio encourage a T-shirt and flip-flops mind-set. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.612.2349 $$ Map K12 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Old Towne day-trippers and tequila connoisseurs duck into this rustically stylish haven for spirited takes on regional Mexican fare far beyond tacos and burritos. L, D (daily). 141 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3038 $$ Map C4 JAVIER’S CANTINA Both lively locations are known for spectacular decor and mucho-gusto ways with south-of-the-border classics. La Tablita, prepare-yourown tacos for two; chili colorado of Kurobuta pork chops in guajillo chili sauce with nopalitos. L, D (daily). 7832 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.494.1239; Irvine Spectrum Center, 45 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.872.2101 $$ Map H15, D5 LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with renowned guacamole and superb coastal views. The patio is packed. B, L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15 MATADOR CANTINA Upscale spot with red brick walls in 1899 building serves traditional dishes but also “Mexican-inspired,” such as chorizo ravioli. Also consider queso fundido and chocolate enchiladas. L, D (daily). 111 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.871.8226 $$$ Map A3 RAYA Sophisticated global cuisine from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Ceviches, sweetcorn soup with huitlacoche puree, roasted halibut with truffled boniato and crispy jalapeños; the churros are a must! B, L, D (daily). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16 RED O New. Sexy contemporary design and exciting dishes by chef Rick Bayless, America’s preeminent authority on Mexican cuisine. Taquitos stuffed with crispy Sonoma duck in tomato-chile de árbol salsa; pork belly sopes. Creative cocktails, extensive tequila list. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 $$$ Map L15 SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooking harbor canals features vibrant Baja-inspired dishes by Deborah Schneider, author of the cookbook Amor y Tacos. Pibil-roasted fish on a banana leaf; Kurobuta carnitas; cocktails, side dishes and flan are sensational. L, D (daily). 251 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.675.9800 $$ Map O15 SOLITA New. Casual spinoff of Sol Cocina focuses on tacos (such as ancho-chili chicken, red-chili borracho beef and grilled wild fish) and margaritas. Indooroutdoor bar. L, D (daily). Bella Terra, 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.894.2792 $ Map C2 TACO ASYLUM Unusual tacos, excellent brews and small-batch sodas. New on the menu: lobster-pancetta taco, rabbit taco, beef-tongue taco. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.922.6010 $ Map J13
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Dining 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 $$$ Map L14, I10 ROY’S RESTAURANT Roy Yamaguchi‘s Hawaiian fusion fare amid stylish tropical decor. D (nightly). Fashion Island, 453 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.7697; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.7697 $$$ Map L15, I10 SHUCK OYSTER BAR Foodie funsters Leonard Chan and Noah Blom offer meticulously shucked selections from a wallful of varieties each day. Superb clam chorizo seafood stew, grilled cheese sandwich. Bubblies and brews, too. L, D (daily). OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.420.0478 $$ Map J12 SCOTT’S Fine dining close to shopping and ideal for pre-theater—there’s a bell 15 minutes before showtime. Lures include superb seafood, USDA Prime steaks and fun desserts, and excellent cocktails in the lounge. Live music (W-Sa). L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.979.2400 $$$ Map J13 SHOR New. Choose your fish or meat, choose your rub, choose your sauce at American seafood grill, part of huge renovation at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach. Fresh-from-the-docks specials daily. B, L, D (daily). 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, 949.644.1552 $$ Map M14 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY Gold medalwinning brewmeister (Brewer of the Year at world’s largest commercial beer competition—twice!) plus oyster bar and fine steaks. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Birch Street Promenade, 101 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.257.0101 $ Map A3 WAYS AND MEANS OYSTER HOUSE New. Michelin-starred Irish chef Conrad Gallagher helms white-tablecloth globally inspired seafooder and oyster bar in a radically redone former Coco’s Bakery. L (M-F); D (W-Su). 513 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.516.1800 $$ Map C4 WOODY’S WHARF Waterfront spot with colorful history serving seafood and steaks since 1965. Cary Grant and Mickey Mantle were guests. Chuck Norris once owned it; doormen included Jean-Claude Van Damme! 2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.0474 $$ Map N8
Steak AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at Brazilian steakhouse are cooked over fire pit, seasoned with rock salt. Gaucho-garbed waiters offer succession of 16 sumptuous cuts, from picanha (a sirloin specialty) to coração (delicate chicken hearts). Elaborate hot and cold bar with vegetable and seafood specialites. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1830 Main St., Irvine, 949.222.9910 $$$ Map J13 THE CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant steakhouse offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Pan-fried calamari with cherry peppers; roasted pepper soup; bone-in kona-crusted dry-aged sirloin; ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J17 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue serves prime everything. Classy feel extends to bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass and in flights. Superior small plates; sizzling steaks; Wine Country Brunch, prime rib on Sundays; “retro chic” and “couture” cocktails. Br (Su), D (nightly). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15
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Sandy-DHB Combo Ad_Where 7/24/13 8:47 AM Page 1
Dining
Twice the View, Double the Dining.
Mastro’s Steakhouse Swanky spot offers largerthan-life portions and white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; off-the-menu crab gnocchi; and—oooh—warm butter cake. Bar offers generous cocktails, fine live music. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405 $$$$ Map J17 Morton’s, the Steakhouse Classy bastion of beef; service-plus, colossal portions. Double filet, Cajun rib-eye, retro filets Oscar and Diane. Show-and-tell menu recitation. Bar 1221. Anaheim, D (nightly); Santa Ana, L (M-F), D (nightly). 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.621.0101; South Coast Plaza Village, 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.444.4834 $$$$ Map I10, J13 PRIME CUT CAFE & WINE BAR High-end cuisine at affordable prices. 80 intriguing wines; fantastic discovery cheeses. L, D (daily). 1547 W. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.532.4300 $$ Map B4 Ruth’s Chris Steak House Bone-in “cowboy” rib-eye; caramelized banana cream pie. Soaring ceilings, modern sculpture, ironwork, 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 $$$$ Map I10, K14 Sam & Harry’s Swank repasts feature hand-cut Midwest corn-fed steaks aged 28 days, seafood flown in daily, potent cocktails. For a stylish nightcap, head out to the patio’s fire pit. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Newport Beach Marriott, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.6900 $$$ Map M15 SAVANNAH CHOP HOUSE American regional cooking—steaks, chops, seafood and Southern specialties— amid clubhouse decor. Tamarind-glazed duck breast; filet mignon Stroganoff. D (nightly). 32441 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.493.7107 $$ Map I17 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN New. Anaheim Ducks superstar hockey player Teemu Selänne unveils upscale American steakhouse in cottage long occupied by the landmark French 75 restaurant. 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881 $$$ Map I16
CALIFORNIA IS SERVED D o w n s ta i r s
714.374.7273
H
On the sand at the HB pier
H
SANDYSHB.COM
T S RESTAURANTS OF HAWAII AND CALIFORNIA
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 $$ Maps N13 and I16 THAI THIS “Cuisine to Thai for.” Fun names of dishes: Handrool Salad, Porkupie and Holly Cow. I See Dead People cocktail. L, D (daily). 24501 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.240.7944 $ Map J17
Themed Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard galleon replica in indoor lagoon. Call for weekend schedule; D (nightly). 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 $$$ Map G8 RAINFOREST CAFE Creative decor, animatronics, special effects bring the rain forest indoors. Extensive menu. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10
Vegetarian Native Foods Casual Cal-vegetarian fare. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.751.2151; Fashion Island, 1091 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.9999; The District, 2453 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.259.0400 $ Map J13, L15, C4
UPSTAIRS 7 14.374.6446 | dukeshuntington.com
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Dining 118 DEGREES Creative raw plant-based cuisine, organic wines and beer, fresh-pressed juices and smoothies. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.754.0718 $ Map J13 veggie grill Yummy plant-based “chickin’ “ and “steak” sandwiches made of marinated veggie meat at fast-casual spots. L, D (daily). 81 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.727.9900; University Center, 4213 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.509.0003 $ Map D5, K14
Vietnamese anqi Innovative cuisine dominated by small plates; sexy setting includes backlit bar and glass catwalk over running stream. Filet mignon pot stickers, secret-recipe garlic noodles, and molecular gastronomy with advance notice. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13 EAST BoROUGH Casual fare on a patio at the Camp. Banh mi, lemongrass tofu. L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.641.5010 $ Map J13 phans 55 Creative Vietnamese. Hanoi-style turmeric pangar white fish; Shaken Beef Filet; chocolate pyramid dessert. 1981 Sunny Crest Drive, Fullerton, 714.441.0714 (L, D M-Sa); 6000 Scholarship Drive, Irvine, 949.724.1236 (L M-Sa, D M-Su) $$ Map A3, K14
Quick Bites Crow BURGER KITCHEN Fast-casual sibling to Crow Bar + Kitchen in Corona del Mar offers Angus and Prime beef burgers in intriguing configurations. Try Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger!. L, D (daily). 3107 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.2747 $ Map N12 GAUFREE New. Waffle sandwiches, notably one with Louisiana tasso ham, Emmental cheese and garlic aioli, another with kale, scallions, bell peppers, eggplant and port-wine-glazed tofu. L, D (daily). Westpark Plaza, 3851 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949.222.5622 $ Map D5 The grilled cheese spot New. Tiny, table-less, cash-only. Choose among 15 cheeses, seven breads, meat or vegetable add-ons; or order house creations such as the Starving Artist. L, D (daily). 318 W. Fifth St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2235 $ Map H13 LINX Artisanal sausages: 10 “Haute LinX,” 15 condiments, 15 sauces. Finish with apple strudel ice cream sandwich with salted caramel sauce. L, D (daily). 238 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.744.3647 $ Map B4 McDONALD’S Burgers, California history mural beneath golden arches near theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.491.0563, plus 70 other county locations. $ Map I10 PIE-NOT New. Aussie-style bakery offers meat, veggie and gluten-free pies. Mary’s pie with rosemary, garlic and lamb; Slice of Heaven dessert, shortbread crust topped with housemade caramel, milk chocolate and sea salt. B, L, D (daily). 270 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.650.7437 $ Map H13 UMAMI BURGER Lauded burgers in 10 styles (e.g., Truffle, Tandoori, Port & Stilton) in hip venues; off-the-menu “tater tots.” L, D (daily). 601 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.342.1210; 338 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.991.8626; The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.957.8626. $ Maps G15, I10, J13
where?
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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.
ANAHEIM
NATIVE FOODS (Vegetarian)..................................48
LUCCA CAFE (Mediterranean)................................ 44
RED O (Mexican).............................................................45
AMERICAN TAVERN (Brew Pub) ........................ 38
NELLO CUCINA (Italian)..........................................43
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).......... 47
ROYAL THAI (Thai).....................................................48
ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE (Italian)................. 42
NEWPORT RIB CO. (California)........................... 36
PAUL MARTIN’S (American)................................... 36
ROY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood).......................... 47
BENIHANA (Japanese)............................................... 44
OLD VINE CAFE. (American)................................. 36
P.F. CHANG’S (Chinese)............................................ 40
SAM & HARRY’S (Steak)..........................................48
THE CATCH (Seafood).................................................46
118 DEGREES (Vegetarian)........................................49
PHAN 55 (Vietnamese).................................................49
SHOR (Seafood)................................................................ 47
CROSSROADS AT H.O.B. (American).............34
ONOTRIA (California)................................................... 39
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).......48
SOL COCINA (Mexican).............................................45
J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ......................................... 38
PIE-NOT (Quick Bites)....................................................49
6IX PARK GRILL (California).................................. 39
TRUE FOOD KITCHEN (Eclectic)........................ 41
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).......... 47
PINOT PROVENCE (French).................................. 42
VEGGIE GRILL (Vegetarian).....................................49
21 OCEANFRONT (Continental)............................. 41
MCDONALD’S (Quick Bites).....................................49
PIZZERIA ORTICA (Italian)...................................43
ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)..............................45
WOODY’S WHARF (Seafood)................................. 47
MIX (Eclectic)....................................................................... 41
QUATTRO CAFFE (Italian).................................... 44
LAGUNA BEACH
NEWPORT COAST
MORTON’S (Steak).......................................................48
ROYAL KHYBER (Indian)......................................... 42
BROADWAY (American).............................................34
ANDREA (Italian)........................................................... 42
SADDLE RANCH (American).................................. 37
BRUSSELS BISTRO (Belgian)................................ 37
THE BEACHCOMBER (American).......................34
SCOTT’S (Seafood)......................................................... 47
THE DECK (American).................................................34
BLUEFIN (Japanese)..................................................... 44
SEASONS 52 (American)........................................... 37
HOUSE OF BIG FISH (Seafood)..........................46
JAVIER’S CANTINA (Mexican)............................45
SHUCK OYSTER BAR (Seafood)......................... 47
K’YA BISTRO BAR (California) . ........................... 39
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood)...............46
SILVER TRUMPET (California)............................... 39
LAS BRISAS (Mexican)...............................................45
TACO ASYLUM (Mexican)........................................45
MARE CULINARY LOUNGE (Italian).............43
NAPA ROSE (California)............................................. 39 RAINFOREST CAFE (Themed)............................48 RALPH BRENNAN’S (American)......................... 36 THE RANCH (American)............................................. 37 ROY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood).......................... 47 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).......48 SLATER’S 50/50 (Brew Pub) ................................. 38 TANGERINE GRILL (California)........................... 40 UMAMI BURGER (American)..................................49
BREA BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................................. 37 TAPS FISH HOUSE (Brew Pub/Seafood)............. 47
BUENA PARK CLAIM JUMPER (American)....................................34 IL GARAGE (Italian).....................................................43 PARK AVE (American).................................................. 36 PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE (Themed)........48
CORONA DEL MAR BANDERA (American)..................................................34 CROW BAR AND KITCHEN (Gastropub)...... 38 FIVE CROWNS (Continental).................................. 40 THE QUIET WOMAN (American)........................ 36 SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)............................................. 38
COSTA MESA/ SOUTH COAST METRO ANQI (Vietnamese fusion)..............................................49 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE (Italian)............. 42 ARC (American).................................................................34 BLACK KNIGHT (Gastropub)................................... 38
TACO MARIA (Mexican)............................................46
MOZAMBIQUE (International)................................. 42
UMAMI BURGER (American)..................................49
ROYAL THAI (Thai).....................................................48
VIE DE FRANCE (French)........................................ 42
SAPPHIRE (Eclectic)...................................................... 41
VITALY (Italian)............................................................... 44
SAVANNAH CHOP HOUSE (Steak)................48
DANA POINT
SELANNE STEAK TAVERN (Steak)................48
CHART HOUSE (Seafood)........................................46
SPLASHES (California)................................................ 40
GEMMELL’S (French).................................................... 41
STARFISH (Eclectic)....................................................... 41
HARBOR GRILL (Seafood).......................................46
STUDIO (California)....................................................... 40
JIMMY’S (American).......................................................34
SUNDRIED TOMATO (California)....................... 40
MOTIF (Mediterranean)................................................. 44
TABU GRILL (California)............................................ 40
RAYA (Latin fusion)...........................................................45
THREE SEVENTY COMMON (American)......... 37
STONEHILL TAVERN (American)........................ 37
242 CAFE (Japanese).................................................. 44
THAI THIS (Thai)...........................................................48
UMAMI BURGER (American)..................................49
VUE (California)................................................................ 40
ZEYTOON (Mediterranean)........................................ 44
FULLERTON
NEWPORT BEACH
THE CELLAR (French/Modern European)............... 41
AMELIA’S (Seafood)......................................................46
MATADOR CANTINA (Mexican).........................45
A RESTAURANT (American)...................................34
PHAN 55 (Vietnamese).................................................49
BACK BAY BISTRO (American)............................34
THE PINT HOUSE (American)............................... 36
BAMBÚ (California/French)........................................... 38
TWISTED VINE (California).................................... 40
BAYSIDE (American).....................................................34
HUNTINGTON BEACH
BENIHANA (Japanese)............................................... 44
BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................................. 37
BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood).............................46
THE CALIFORNIAN (California)........................... 39
BRASSERIE PASCAL (French).............................. 41
DUKE’S (Seafood)............................................................46
CANALETTO RISTORANTE (Italian).............43
TAMARIND (Indian)...................................................... 42 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)..............................45
ORANGE BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................................. 37 FRANCOLI GOURMET (Italian)..........................43 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican).....45 HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew Pub)....................... 38 THE HOBBIT (Continental)......................................... 41 LINX (American)................................................................49 ORANGE HILL (Continental)..................................... 41 THE PINT HOUSE (American).................................. 36 PRIME CUT CAFE & WINE BAR (Steak)........48 SMOQUED (American)................................................. 37 TILTED KILT (Brew Pub) . ........................................... 37 TULSA RIB CO (American)....................................... 37 WAYS AND MEANS (Seafood)............................. 47
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA BLIND PIG (American).................................................34
SAN CLEMENTE IVA LEE’S (American)...................................................34 SUNDRIED TOMATO (California)....................... 40 VINE (California)............................................................... 40
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO EL ADOBE (Mexican)...................................................45 RAMOS HOUSE CAFE (American).................... 37 SUNDRIED TOMATO (California)....................... 40
THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)............................ 47
RA SUSHI (Japanese)................................................... 44
CROW BURGER KITCHEN (Gastropub).........49
CHARLIE PALMER (American).............................34
SANDY’S HB (American)............................................ 37
FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean).................................. 44
SANTA ANA
CLAIM JUMPER (American)....................................34
SEALEGS WINE BAR (California)....................... 39
FIRST CABIN (Seafood).............................................46
CHAPTER ONE (American)......................................34
EAST BOROUGH (Vietnamese).............................49
SHADES (California)....................................................... 39
FLEMING’S (Steak)....................................................... 47
CLAIM JUMPER (American)....................................34
ECCO RISTORANTE (Italian)...............................43
SLATER’S 50/50 (Brew Pub) ................................. 38
GULFSTREAM (Seafood)...........................................46
GRILLED CHEESE SPOT (Quick Bites)............49
EL CORAZON (Mexican)...........................................45
SOLITA (Mexican) ..........................................................45
IL BARONE RISTORANTE (Italian).................43
LITTLE SPARROW (American)............................. 36
GREENLEAF (California)............................................ 39
ZIMZALA (American).................................................... 37
JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR (American)........34
MEMPHIS (American).................................................... 36
HAMAMORI (Japanese).............................................. 44
IRVINE
LARK CREEK (California).......................................... 39
PLAYGROUND (American)....................................... 36
IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian)...............................43
AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Brazilian).............. 47
LEMONADE (California).............................................. 39
TUSTIN
THE IRON PRESS (American)................................34
ANDREI’S (American)...................................................34
MOZAMBIQUE (International)................................. 42
BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood).............................46
LEATHERBY’S CAFE ROUGE (American)....... 36
BISTANGO (Eclectic)....................................................34
MULDOON’S (Irish Pub)............................................. 38
BONEFISH GRILL (Seafood)..................................46
MARCHÉ MODERNE (French).............................. 42
CAPITAL SEAFOOD (Chinese)........................... 40
NATIVE FOODS (Vegetarian)..................................48
J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ....................................... 38
MARRAKESH (Moroccan).......................................... 42
CLAY OVEN (Indian).................................................... 42
PALM TERRACE (American)................................... 36
NATIVE FOODS (Vegetarian)..................................48
MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)..................48
CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)..................................43
PANDOR (French)........................................................... 42
NIEUPORT 17 (Continental)....................................... 41
MEMPHIS (American).................................................... 36
GAUFREE (Quick Bites)................................................49
P.F. CHANG’S (Chinese)............................................ 40
RA SUSHI (Japanese)................................................... 44
MESA (Med.-American).................................................. 44
IL FORNAIO (Italian)...................................................43
PITA JUNGLE (Mediterranean)............................... 44
THE WINERY (California)......................................... 40
MORTON’S (Steak).......................................................48
JAVIER’S CANTINA (Mexican)............................45
PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian)....................................43
ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)..............................45
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OC DINING
IL FORNAIO
Il Fornaio’s award-winning authentic Italian cuisine is a favorite in Irvine. Specialties include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto and rotisserie meats. Artisan breads and pasta are made fresh daily. Each month a special menu from a different region of Italy is featured. With an event coordinator on-site to handle all of your needs, Il Fornaio is the perfect location for rehearsal dinners, weddings and business functions. The Il Fornaio Bakery Café next door offers an array of tossed-to-order salads, soups and Italian panini.
18051 Von Karman Ave., Irvine 949.261.1444 ilfornaio.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
MIX RESTAURANT
Savor globally inspired flavors and fresh locally sourced ingredients that will leave any palate satisfied. Executive Chef Kyung Soo Carroll brings responsible cuisine to Hilton Anaheim, supporting local farms and in-season items through his thoughtful approach and treatment to each dish. Chef Carroll believes in serving food that people recognize and understand. With varied techniques learned throughout the years, Carroll consistently maintains the integrity of the ingredients with refined, worldly execution. Great for a quick bite during your lunch hour, or it may become your new happy hour spot. Reservations recommended for special occasions. Complimentary valet parking. Mention the code WHERE OC to your server and receive 20% off your entire meal. (Offer excludes alcoholic beverages). B, L, D (daily). Hilton Anaheim Hotel, 777 Convention Way, Anaheim 714.740.4412 hiltonanaheimhotel.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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HOUSE OF BIG FISH
At fish-house-meets-gastropub contemporary eatery, diners enjoy fresh sustainable fish, farm fresh produce, creative small plates, along with handcrafted cocktails, boutique wines and over 50 global and local craft beers. The seafoodcentric menu features Peruvian-style ceviche, crudo, oysters, blackened salmon, lobster fondue, chowders, ahi poke and line-caught daily catch. Great raw bar and grilled cheese happy hour Mon.-Fri 4:30-5:30 pm. During happy hour receive half off any item from the dinner menu when you buy any cocktail, beer or wine. Taco Tuesdays feature a special menu all night long with taco platters stating at $5. Beach casual vibe with ocean sunset views. B,L (Sa-Su) D (M-F).
540 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach 949.715.4500 houseofbigfish.com
ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS This Irvine restaurant thinks responsibly, from the sourcing and preparing of its food to its commitment to sustainability on all fronts; the Nature Conservancy recently named it its “favorite green restaurant” in Los Angeles and Orange County. Signature dishes include Moroccan-spiced steelhead trout, pumpkin-sage ravioli and kale caesar salad. Andrei’s may be best known for unique cocktails made by some of the county’s best mixologists. Try the Chilean Spice during happy hour (Mon.-Fri., 3-7 pm, Sat., 5-7 pm) or end the night with a basil-cucumber gimlet, made with Nolet’s gin, muddled basil, cucumber and house-made basil-lime simple syrup. Private dining and event space available. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 andreisrestaurant.com
MELIA’S SEAFOOD A & ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Amelia’s is celebrating more than 50 years of delighting visitors and locals alike. Located among the boutiques on Balboa Island, this quaint European-style restaurant specializes in exquisite pasta and delectable seafood. Try the linguine with baby calamari and fresh bay scallops with marinara sauce. Amelia’s features at least 5 very fresh fish daily and mouthwatering combination dinners such as the filet mignon and scampi. Fine wines available. Private parties from eight to 48. Sunset dinner $12.50, SundayFriday 5-6 pm. D (nightly), Br (F-Su).
311 Marine Ave., Balboa Island 949.673.6580 ameliasbalboaisland.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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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 wide-screen 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
THE HARBOR GRILL Since 1984, proprietors John, Wanda and Keegan Hicks have taken pride in the sincere friendly attitude of the staff and the quality of food. Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday breakfast, the Harbor Grill offers a delicious array of fresh seafood cooked in a variety of styles including Southwestern, Pacific Rim, Caribbean, Cajun and Mediterranean. With its reasonably priced menu, premium cocktails and extensive wine list, the Harbor Grill has become a favorite with locals and a popular destination for visitors who are made to feel like “regulars.” Whether they’re enjoying the cozy dining room or the colorful terrace, the view of the harbor sails encourages a leisurely meal while a pianist adds the perfect background music each evening.
34499 Golden Lantern, Dana Point 949.240.1416 harborgrill.com
AMERICAN TAVERN EATERY & DRINK
Located at the Hotel Ménage, American Tavern Eatery and Drink offers comfort food at affordable prices as well as a large selection of craft beers, boutique wines and creative cocktails. Chef Craig Connole’s menu includes mini-bratwurst sandwiches, a “messy” smoked bacon and cheddar ale burger, lobster mac ’n’ cheese, chicken and waffles, and four-cheese and funghi flat bread. Rich woods, chalkboard walls and a lively bar make for an inviting atmosphere. The Palapa Bar and Lounge, just outside, offers Hawaiian-style cuisine and tropical cocktails and affords some of the best views of Disneyland Park fireworks— poolside, no less! B, L, D (daily). 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim 714.400.9104 americantaverneatery.com, palapabarandlounge.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Entertainment Special Events
Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map
SURF CITY USA MARATHON Feb. 2. Largest ocean-front running event in California; plus halfmarathon. Start is 6:30 am. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, runsurfcity.com Map N9
H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 69-71. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
TASTE OF SAN JUAN Feb. 20. Kickoff for Fiesta de las Golondrias (Festival of the Swallows) features fare from more than 20 eateries. 6-9 pm. Free. San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976 Map I17
Theater................................54 Music + Dance..................56 Sports...................................56 Attractions.........................56 Museums...........................58 Shopping Destinations...59
Holidays OC BREW HOHO! Dec. 7. Brewers present regional craft beers and holiday ales at pediatric-cancer fundraiser. $55, $10 for designated drivers. Noon-4 pm. 1340 S. Sanderson Ave., Anaheim, 949.363.9960 Map I11
Killer Musical
Devilishly delightful Broadway landmark Chicago, Jan. 28– Feb. 2 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa, utilizes minimal scenery and simple costumes—some seriously basic black—to deliver one showstopping musical bang after another. John Kander and Fred Ebb’s score keeps the story moving at a gunshot pace; the scantily clad dancers tip their bowler hats in tribute to original choreographer Bob Fosse, whose moves are as steamy today as they were when Chicago premiered in 1975. Set in the legendary city during the roaring “jazz hot” ’20s, it tells the story of two rival vaudevillian murderesses locked up in Cook County Jail. The show has won six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy. p. 54
CORONA DEL MAR CHRISTMAS WALK Dec. 8. Merchants, tastings, beer and wine garden, live music, kids’ entertainment; photos with Santa. Toys for Tots donation collection. 11 am-4 pm. Free. Corona del Mar, 949.673.4050 Map M16 SWEATER DASH Dec. 14. Walkers’ and runners’ 5K around Angel Stadium in ugly sweater combinations. 10 am start; register by Dec. 12 at 3 pm. $52. 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, thesweaterdash.com Map I11 CRUISE OF LIGHTS Dec. 14-15, 19-23. Huntington Harbour event for the Philharmonic Society of O.C. offers narrated boat tours through the waterways, viewing lights and animated displays on brightly decorated homes, docks, decks and boats. 16889 Algonquin St., Huntington Beach, 714.840.7542 Map C1 SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL WINTER FANTASY Through Dec. 15. Artists and artisans display and sell original jewelry, clothing, ceramics, woodwork and paintings in a festive setting. Art projects for children and adults. Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $3-$6, 5 and under free. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030. Map G15 NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE Dec. 18-22. More than 100 decorated vessels large and small light the harbor for the 105th annual event. Theme: “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” 6:30-9 pm. Free. Newport Harbor, 949.729.4400 Map N14 HOLIDAY ON ICE Through Feb. 18. Seasonal ice rink at Irvine Spectrum Center. $14; $3 skate rentals. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.748.8280 Map D5
Theater A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec. 6-26. Beloved Dickens classic about Tiny Tim, the Cratchits, the Fezziwigs, the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future, and Ebenezer Scrooge. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 A CHRISTMAS MEMORY Dec. 7-29. Tender portrait of a rare friendship across the generations with a heartwarming musical score, based on Truman Capote’s Depression-era short story. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS Dec. 27-29. Based on C.S. Lewis’ novel. God is called Enemy, the devil Our Father Below; His Abysmal Sublimity Screwtape trains the demon Wormwood. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646 Map K14
Index Special Events...................54
Golf Courses.......................61 Active Outdoors..............62 Beaches + Parks................63 Nightlife...............................65 Tours + Transport.............67 Tickets.................................68
EVITA Dec. 10-22. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning musical about Eva Perón, a charismatic girl from the slums of Argentina who uses her charm to rise to fame and power. Songs include “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” and “Another Suitcase in Another Hall.” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 BROADWAY ON ICE Dec. 27-28. Broadway tunes with a figure-skating twist. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos, 562.916.8500 Map J13 TRUDY AND MAX IN LOVE Jan. 5-26. Unconventional romance, two comical characters. Trudy writes young-adult fiction; Max is a celebrity novelist. The attraction proves to be anything but convenient. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 RING OF FIRE Jan. 7-Feb 2. More than 30 Johnny Cash songs such as “I Walk the Line” and “Folsom Prison Blues” and choreography provide intimate glimpse into the musician’s life. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Jan. 14-19. Disney’s acclaimed musical tale of Belle, a young woman lost in books in a provincial town, and the Beast, a young prince trapped in a spell—and a hideous body. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA Jan. 24-Feb. 23. Mother and daughter travel through Italy to Adam Guettel’s music and lyrics. When an Italian steals the daughter’s heart, her mother must decide whether to reveal a secret or give the couple her blessing. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 CHICAGO Jan. 28-Feb. 2. It is 1920s Chicago, and Roxie Hart has just killed her lover. Legal affairs, a fight for the limelight and an explosion of jazz follow in the Broadway smash hit. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH Feb. 7-23. First, a rhinoceros ate James’ parents. Then he’s sent to live with horrible aunts. But the day is saved when a giant peach appears in his backyard. Based on Roald Dahl’s children’s book. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 THE WIZARD OF OZ Feb. 11-23. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new stage production is an adaptation of the classic film. Dorothy from Kansas finds herself in a magical land after a hurricane, and journeys with Toto, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion to find their heart’s desires. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13
Rumor has it that Disneyland’s Tomorrowland, already home to Star Tours, will become a Star Wars-themed land complete with Millenium Falcon and Speeder Bike attractions . p. 56
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Attractions + Museums Music + Dance
Sports
THE COACH HOUSE Dec. 4 New Riders of the Purple Sage. Dec. 7 Howie Day. Dec. 12 Dishwalla. Dec. 14 Don McLean. Dec. 31 Donavon Frankenreiter. Jan. 3 Hummel’s Blues Harmonica Blowout. Jan. 10 Albert Lee. Jan. 16 Spencer Day. Jan. 17 Wild Child. Jan. 19 Missing Persons. Feb. 12 Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks. Feb. 14 Guitarist Ottmar Liebert. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930 Map I1
HONDA CENTER Dec. 3 Anaheim Ducks vs. Los Angeles Kings. Dec. 9 Ducks vs. New York Islanders. Dec. 11 Ducks vs. Minnesota Wild. Dec. 15 Ducks vs. Edmonton Oilers. Dec. 28 Ducks vs. Phoenix Coyotes. Dec. 31 Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks. Jan. 3 Ducks vs. Edmonton Oilers. Jan. 5 Ducks vs. Vancouver Canucks. Jan. 7 Ducks vs. Boston Bruins. Jan. 12 Ducks vs. Detroit Red Wings. Jan. 15 Ducks vs. Vancouver Canucks. Jan. 21 Ducks vs. Winnipeg Jets. Jan. 23 Ducks vs. Los Angeles Kings. Jan. 28 Ducks vs. Minnesota Wild. Jan. 30 Ducks vs. Philadelphia Flyers. Feb. 1 Ducks vs. Dallas Stars. Feb. 3 Ducks vs. Columbus Blue Jackets. Feb. 5 Ducks vs. Chicago Blackhawks. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500 Map I11
GROVE OF ANAHEIM Dec. 29 MattyB. Dec. 30 Straight No Chaser. Jan. 22 Styx. Jan. 23 David Garrett. 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.712.2700 Map I11 HONDA CENTER Dec. 6 Jay Z. Dec. 13 Kanye West. Dec. 17-22 Disney on Ice: Rockin’ Ever After. Jan. 26 Nitro Circus Live. Feb. 7-9 PBR Built Ford Tough Series. Feb. 13 Demi Lovato. Feb. 15 Harlem Globetrotters. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500 Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES Dec. 5 Trevor Hall and Nahko. Dec. 12 Third Eye Blind. Dec. 16 Rapper Jake Miller. Dec. 31 J Boog. Jan. 11 Led Zepagain. Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.2583 Map I10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Dec. 13-24 Festival Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker. Dec. 27-29 C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters. Jan. 16 Luis Bravo’s Forever Tango. Jan. 24 JazzReach: Miles Davis and the Blue Flame Incident. Jan. 26 Mozart Classical Orchestra. Jan. 30Feb. 1 Cirque Éloize. Feb. 8 MAMO: Nathan Aweau and Jeff Peterson. Feb. 13 Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet. Feb. 23 Mandelring Quartet. 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646 Map K14 LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE Laguna Beach Music Festival. Feb. 5 Jeffrey Kahane, piano, and Gabriel Kahane, piano and voice. Feb. 6 yMusic Ensemble. Feb. 8 Gabriel Kahane, piano and voice, and yMusic Ensemble. Feb. 9 Pianist Jeffery Kahane and Linden String Quartet. 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.715.9713 Map G15 THE OBSERVATORY Dec. 1 The Devil Wears Prada. Dec. 5 Singer Gavin Turek. Dec. 6-7 X and the Blasters. Dec. 12 Folk artist Lissie. Dec. 13 The Story So Far. Dec. 14 The Adolescents & 7 Seconds. Dec. 21 Holograms. Feb. 26 Dr. Dog. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.957.0600 Map I12 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall Dec. 4 Fiesta Navidad with Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano. Dec. 7 Beach Boys Christmas Show. Dec. 8 B.B. King. Feb. 7-9 Hamburg Ballet. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Dec. 3 Vanguard University Christmas Fantasia. Dec. 6 Orange County Millennial Choirs and Orchestras, Let Earth Receive Her King. Dec. 7 Pianist Rueibin Chen plays Rachmaninoff. Dec. 12-14 Pacific Symphony, pianist Joyce Yang. Dec. 15 Handel’s Messiah. Dec. 16 Manhattan Transfer Christmas. Dec. 17 Holiday Organ Spectacular. Dec. 19-21 Christmas with LeAnn Rimes. Dec. 22-23 Pacific Chorale, Tis the Season! Jan. 9-11 Pacific Symphony, violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg. Jan. 22-25 Pink Martini. Jan. 22 Royal Philharmonic, conductor-violinist Pinchas Zukerman. Jan. 27 Handel’s Theodora. Feb. 13-15 Matthew Morrison. Feb. 20, 22, 25 Verdi’s La Traviata. Samueli Theater Dec. 7-8 Okee Dokee Brothers. Feb. 19 St. Lawrence String Quartet. Feb. 21-22 Organist Lonnie Smith. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Dec. 7 Aliso Viejo Holiday Show. Dec. 13 South Coast Symphony, vocalist Susan Egan. Dec. 15 All-American Boys Chorus. Jan. 10 Peking Acrobats. Jan. 12 The Diamonds and Billy Richards’ Coasters. Jan. 25 International Guitar Night. Jan. 30 Guitarists Muriel Anderson and Tierra Negra. Feb. 1 Benny Golson tribute. Feb. 7 Duo Stephanie Bettman and Luke Halpin. Feb. 9 Pacific Symphony, pianist Benjamin Pasternack. Feb. 15 Guitarists George Kuo, Aaron Mahi and Martin Pahinui. 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4000 Map G16
24% 4 famous attractions
Attractions AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC One of the largest aquariums in the U.S.; highlights include Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest and ethereal sea jellies. Daily 9 am6 pm. $14.95-$25.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BALBOA FUN ZONE The zone is shrinking. Remaining rides include the Ferris wheel. Su-Th 11 am-6 pm; F until 9 pm, Sa until 10 pm. Pay per ride. 600 E. Bay Ave., Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach Map N15 BODIES THE EXHIBITION Actual full-body specimens and organs offer detailed views of the human form rarely seen outside an anatomy lab. $12.75-$16.75, under 3 free. Adjacent Titanic show, separate admission. 7711 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 888.647.2789 Map G8
3-Day Park Hopper® to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park
CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Dolphin and whale-watching excursions. Departures daily. $35-$55, under 3 free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828 Map J16 CHRIST CATHEDRAL Formerly known as Crystal Cathedral. Three architectural treasures: Philip Johnson’s stunning glass cathedral, Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope and Richard Meier’s International Center for Positive Thinking. Tours M-Sa 9:30 am-3:30 pm. Free. 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, 714.489.6100 Map J10 DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING Year-round fishing and whale-watching trips from south Orange County. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794 Map K16
Universal Studios HollywoodSM
DISCOVERY SCIENCE CENTER Hands-on exhibits and live shows; Boeing Rocket Lab inside the mammoth tilting cube. Through Jan. 5 The Science of Gingerbread and The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95-$15.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s first theme park includes 55 attractions in eight lands, from Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln on Main Street, U.S.A., to Star Tours—the Adventure Continues in Tomorrowland. Through Jan. 6 Holiday Time. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $86-$92, under 3 free. 1313 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Spectacular Pixarinspired Cars Land and Buena Vista Street are new. Soarin’ Over California; California Screamin’; Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Through Jan. 6 Water show World of Color: Winter Dreams and Mad T Party. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $86-$92. 1313 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre pedestrian promenade adjacent to Disney parks offers dining, shopping, cinema and nightlife, including House of Blues, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and ESPN Zone. Non-gated, free admission. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10
SeaWorld® San Diego
Buy at these attractions - Good for 14 days - Skip most ticket lines Connect for current pricing
citypass.com or (888) 330-5008
Prices and programs subject to change.
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Attractions + Museums FLIGHTDECK AIR COMBAT CENTER Aerial dogfights using 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 County’s largest botanical garden, with 26 lush acres and more than 4,000 unusual plant species set amid ponds and streams. 8 am-4:30 pm. Free; $3 suggested donation. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657.278.3407 Map A3 K1 SPEED Indoor kart racing offers challenging track for speed enthusiasts. 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 I14 and A3 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions. Premier collection of coasters includes GhostRider and Xcelerator; Coast Rider is new. 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. $70-$80, under 3 free. Sea Life Aquarium, add $13. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.LEGO Map south of F6 MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show featuring jousting knights, Lipizzaner stallions, swordsmanship and falconry, four-course feast. Plus Medieval Torture Museum. $35.95-$57.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 OCEAN INSTITUTE Presentations aboard tall ship Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor; tide-pool sessions; marine-mammal exploration cruises; blue-whale safaris. Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm; behind-the-scenes tour Th-F 3:30 pm. $4.50-$6.50, under 3 free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274 Map J16 ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK Huge in-progress park. Tethered-balloon ride, $5-$10, under 6 free. Carousel, $2. Farmers market, Su 10 am-2 pm. Near Interstate 5, Sand Canyon Avenue and Irvine Boulevard. Perimeter Road, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 ORANGE COUNTY ZOO Charming, rustic zoo features plants and animals from Southwestern U.S. Audio tours available. M-F 10 am-3:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-4:30 pm. $2, under 2 free. Parking $3-$5. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6847 Map C5
10 MINUTE LASER FACIALS NO DOWNTIME. JUST RESULTS FIRST TIME IS ON THE HOUSE WHAT IS A SKIN LAUNDRY FACIAL? A 10-MINUTE LASER & LIGHT FACIAL WITH NO DOWNTIME THAT EFFECTIVELY TREATS PROBLEMATIC SKIN
IMMEDIATE RESULTS INSTANTLY CLEANS OUT YOUR PORES VAPORIZES BACTERIA, DIRT & MAKEUP RESIDUE MINIMIZES ACNE BREAKOUTS INSTANTLY MORE RADIANT SKIN SANTA MONICA - 1230 MONTANA AVENUE SANTA MONICA CA 90403 | 310-319-9400 WEST HOLLYWOOD - 8789 BEVERLY BLVD. WEST HOLLYWOOD CA, 90048 | 310-360-0791 FASHION ISLAND - 123 NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE. NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92660 | 949-706-7203
PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Swashbuckling swordplay, aerial artistry, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard Spanish galleon replica. Call for hours. $39.95-$58.95, under 3 free. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8 PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Interconnected, interactive miniature city for children from infant to 8 years old. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm; M until 1 pm. $12.50. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900 Map E6 QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Through Jan. 5 Chill winter event. Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve. Feb. 15-16 Queen Mary Scots Festival. Shops, dining, art deco lounge; Russian Foxtrot Submarine adjacent. Self-guided/guided tours, M-Th 10 am-6 pm, F-Su 10 am-7 pm. $13.95$24.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511 Map northwest of C1 RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM Provocative exhibits at Nixon birthplace include the presidential helicopter, presidential tapes and a Watergate gallery. Through Jan. 5 Trains, Trees & Traditions. Garden tours on Saturdays. M-Sa 10 am-5 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm. $4.75-$11.95, under 6 free. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.993.5075 Map A4
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Attractions + Museums 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 (Formerly Wild Animal Park) 1,800-acre wildlife preserve with vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. $44; children 3-11 $34; kids 2 and under free; seniors 60 and over $39.60. Cars $10-15. Open daily, Through Dec. 25, 9 am-5 pm; Through Dec. 31 until 6 pm. 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. $44; 3-11 $34; 2 and under free; seniors 60 and over $39.60. Free parking. Open daily, call for hours. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515 Map southeast of F6 SANTA ANA ZOO Modest, idyllic zoo. Tierra de las Pampas exhibit features giant anteaters and greater rheas. New rare baby colobus and crested capuchin monkeys. Daily, 10 am-4 pm. $7-$10, under 3 free. 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, 714.836.4000 Map H14 SEAWORLD Home of Shamu. Marine-themed attractions include Turtle Reef, thrill ride Journey to Atlantis and Blue Horizons show. Open daily. Call for hours, combo rates. $71-$79, under 3 free. 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, 800.25.SHAMU Map southeast of F6 SHERMAN LIBRARY & GARDENS Ten gardens showcase intimate botanical collection. Library research center. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. Library open T-Th 9 am-4:30 pm. $1-$3, under 12 free. Free on Mondays. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261 Map M16 SKY HIGH SPORTS Fun center features 360 degrees of trampoline walls; free-bounce, dodgeball and AIRobics. $12 per hour. Call for hours. 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5867 Map J13 THRILL IT FUN CENTER New indoor family-fun center features laser tag, rock climbing walls, ropes course and mechanical bull. Open M-Th 1-9 pm; F 1-11 pm; Sa 10 am-11 pm; Su 11 am-9 pm. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. West, Orange, 714.937.1600 Map J11 TITANIC—THE EXPERIENCE View artifacts from the wreck of the “ship of dreams,” experience sights and sounds of its voyage 101 years ago. $12.75-$16.75, under 3 free. Adjacent Bodies show, separate admission. Open M-Th 10 am-7 pm; F-Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-6 pm. 7711 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 888.647.2789 Map G8 VANS SKATEPARK Skateboard mecca has combi pool, open street course and mini-ramps; 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 Children’s museum near Bowers Museum with a focus on ethnic arts and culture. F-Su 10 am-4 pm. $6, under 2 free. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.480.1520 Map G13 BOWERS MUSEUM Dedicated to preservation and exhibition of world cultural arts plus displays with a California focus. Through Feb. 9 Gods & Gifts: Vatican Ethnological Collection. Through Feb. 15 A Quest for Beauty: The Art of Van Cleef & Arpels. Continuing Revolution to Romanticism: Freedom of Expression in 19th Century European Painting. Tu-Su 10 am-4 pm. $10-$13, under 12 free. Separate admission for some exhibits. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600 Map G13 FULLERTON MUSEUM CENTER Ongoing Lowdown on the Uproar: Leo’s Electric Basses. Tu-Su noon-4 pm; Th noon-8 pm. $1-$4, under 6 free. 301 N. Pomona Ave., Fullerton, 714.738.6545 Map A3
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Shopping HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERNATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM Board culture spotlights legend Duke Kahanamoku, classic surfboards and the original Endless Summer film. M-F noon-5 pm; Tu until 9 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-6 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. $5. 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.476.2565 Map J14 LAGUNA ART MUSEUM California Impressionism and contemporary cultural art. Through Jan. 19 Adam Silverman: Clay and Space and Expose: Richard Kraft. Through Feb. 9 Sea Change: Tanya Aguiñiga’s Bluebelt Forest. F-Tu 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 Some of the world’s rarest operational 20th century aircraft and other historical vehicles; on the perimeter of John Wayne Airport. 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 the jewel of the California missions, the county’s birthplace, founded in 1776. Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. 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 MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER Displays, often design-oriented, in historic North County mansion. Through Dec. 31 Frank Romero. W-Su noon-4 pm; Th noon-9 pm. Free. 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714.738.6595 Map A3 MUZEO In historic Carnegie Library building. Through Jan. 6 Lateral Acceleration: Southern California’s Motorcycle Culture. Through Jan. 12 Worn to Be Wild: The Black Leather Jacket. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $6-$10. Admission fees, hours subject to change by exhibition. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10 NEWPORT HARBOR NAUTICAL MUSEUM Ongoing Sea of Adventure, Extraordinary People. M-Th 11 am-4:30 pm, F-Sa until 6 pm, Su until 5 pm. $2-$4, under 4 free. 600 E. Bay Ave., Newport Beach, 949.675.8915 Map N14 ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART Focus on California modern and contemporary art. Opening Dec. 15 California Landscape Into Abstraction. W-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th until 8 pm. Closed through Dec. 14. $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 Lush Cosmetics, Skechers, O’Neill, Harley-Davidson of Anaheim; some seats at 14-plex UltraLuxe cinema feature film-synced motion technology. 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.635.7410 Map I10 ANAHEIM PACKING DISTRICT Hip shopping at Center Street Promenade from owners of Costa Mesa’s the Lab and the Camp. Nearby 1920s Packard showroom features Umami Burger and Anaheim Brewery. Historic citrus packing building housing 20 foodie vendors opens presently. Center Street and Anaheim Boulevard, Anaheim, 714.966.6661 Map H10 BELLA TERRA Striking Italian-themed open-air center; Whole Foods Market, REI outdoor-sports specialist and 20-screen cinema. Lorna Jane, Luna Rossa and Solita for tacos and tequila are new. 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.897.2534 Map C2 BREA MALL County’s second-largest mall is home to department stores Nordstrom and Macy’s and 174 other retailers including new Tesla store. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, 714.990.2733 Map A3
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Shopping BUENA PARK DOWNTOWN More than 1 million square feet of retail, dining and entertainment near Knott’s Berry Farm includes Krikorian Metroplex cinemas and Portillo’s popular hot-dog venue. 8308 On the Mall, Buena Park, 714.828.7722 Map G8 THE CAMP Green-oriented enclave for outdoors enthusiasts includes eco-department store SEED People’s Market and a host of intriguing dining options. 2937-2981 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa Map J13 CORONA DEL MAR PLAZA Boutiques include Gail Jewelers, Jack’s Surfboards and Sienna Brown. Among other draws are Savory Spice Shop and new Sprinkles Ice Cream. 800-984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949.720.2689 Map M15 CRYSTAL COVE SHOPPING CENTER Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques, fine dining and home stores; restaurants Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana and Babette’s are new. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.720.2689 Map M17 THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY One-millionsquare-foot retail, entertainment and dining destination. Boutiques include Madison Bleu and Ulta Cosmetics; Whole Foods Market; Bowlmor bowling lounge. Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.0290 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex includes House of Blues, Build-A-Bear, Studio Disney 365 and Ridemakerz. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 (See Attractions.) Map I10 FASHION ISLAND Elegant open-air center with anchors Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom; Halston Heritage, Babakul, Seafolly for swim and Skin Laundry, for quickie facials, are new. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15 5 POINTS PLAZA Neighborhood center offers Wet Seal, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Charming Charlie jewelry, Cloudmover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi. The dog-friendly local favorite has a barking lot! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 714.841.0036 Map D2 IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER Moorish-themed entertainment-retail center includes nation’s most visited movie complex, anchors Nordstrom and Macy’s and a bevy of new restaurants. Blackheart, Brandy Melville and the Melt are new. Giant Ferris wheel visible from freeways. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 THE LAB Once a night-vision-goggle factory, now an indoor-outdoor venue featuring youth-skewed boutiques, gallery and salon. Men’s store Klein Epstein & Parker and contemporary art and design bookstore As Issued are new. Dining options include Zipangu, Gypsy Den and Habana. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6660 Map J13 THE OUTLETS AT ORANGE Calvin Klein joins BP-Split_OCWhere-4.625x7.375_QR.indd 1 Perry Ellis and Tommy Hilfiger outlets, Nordstrom Rack, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th and American Eagle Outfitters. Vans Skatepark for indoor boarding. Formerly known as the Block at Orange. 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.4000 Map J11
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THE SHOPS AT MISSION VIEJO From Aveda to Z Gallerie, plus Nordstrom and Macy’s. 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, 949.364.1832 Map E6 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Center of showrooms and creative studios includes Design Within Reach for midcentury modern, Surfas Culinary District and Arc restaurant. OC Mix features 30-plus vendors including Deer Lovely boutique, Portola Coffee Lab, Seventh Tea Bar, the Cheese Shop and Shuck Oyster Bar. 3303-3323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.333.0893 Map J12
Not valid on 1/2 price days or holidays
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Tickets: 800.979.3370 or DanaWharf.com Available for Private Groups
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YOU ONLY THINK YOU KNOW NIXON Patriot. President. Peacemaker.
Golf SOUTH COAST PLAZA “The Ultimate Shopping Experience” is a state tourist destination. Marquee retailers include Christian Louboutin and Prada; Lanvin, Brioni, Berluti and Diptyque are new. Macy’s Home Store and Crate & Barrel anchor Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13 THE STRAND Two blocks of coast-adjacent property offers retailers such as Active Ride Shop, Varga and Croc. Restaurants include RA Sushi and Bruxie. 155 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.4528 Map N9 THE TRIANGLE Dining and entertainment destination. New Saddle Ranch Chop House, Black Knight Gastro Lounge, H2O Sushi & Izakaya and El Corazon de Costa Mesa join Starlight Triangle Cinemas and nightclub Sutra. Opening presently: Tavern + Bowl bowling alley. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map L12 WESTFIELD MAINPLACE Macy’s, Nordstrom, 180 specialty shops and boutiques. 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13
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 California terrain with vistas, valleys, stream, oaks, sycamores. M-Th $48, F $57, Sa-Su $66. Includes cart and use of GPS system. 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road, Anaheim, 714.998.3041 Map B5
OPEN THROUGH 2013
A bold storytelling exhibit on the five most important chapters of the 37th President’s life and legacy.
RN: How American H RN: Always In The Arena RN: Creating A Just Society H RN: Peacemaker Of His Time RN: The Global Elder Statesman
At the RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda FOR INFORMATION: 714.364.1120 or nixonfoundation.org
ARROYO TRABUCO GOLF CLUB Upscale course on the Ladera Open Space Reserve. M-Th $72, F $87, Sa-Su $101. 26772 Avery Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.305.5100 Map E6 BLACK GOLD GOLF CLUB Challenges at oil-themed canyon course include elevation changes, blind tee shots. M-Th $87, F $99, Sa-Su $115. Includes cart and GPS system. 1 Black Gold Drive, Yorba Linda, 714.961.0060 Map A4 COYOTE HILLS COUNTRY CLUB Course designed by Cal Olson and PGA Tour legend Payne Stewart. Lighted driving range, chipping and sand play area. Call for rates. Includes cart and GPS system. 1440 E. Bastanchury Road, Fullerton, 714.672.6800 Map A3 MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views abound at 18-hole course at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. 50 Monarch Beach Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.8247 Map J16 NEWPORT BEACH GOLF COURSE Contoured executive course offers night play. $13-$27. 3100 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.852.8681 Map M15 OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bull-nose carved bunkers and picturesque greens on Tom Fazio course. M-Th $130, F-Su $175. Includes cart. 1 Golf Club Drive, Irvine, 949.653.5300 Map D5 PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Two gorgeous courses reopened after a two-year renovation as part of the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; coastal views from virtually every hole. $280 daily. 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 877.735.4226 Map L17 RANCHO SAN JOAQUIN Course offers big hilly greens with water on seven holes. Call for rates. 1 Ethel Coplen Way, Irvine, 949.786.5522 Map D4 STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF CLUB Eighteenhole course; rolling greens, picturesque canyon, wetland vistas, county’s longest hole. M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D4
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Golf TALEGA GOLF CLUB Scenic canyons, marshes, Spanish Colonial-style clubhouse, 18-hole championship course with Augusta white-sand bunkers designed in part by Masters champion Fred Couples. M-Th $80, F $90, Sa-Su $100. 990 Avenida Talega, San Clemente, 949.369.6226 Map south of F6 TIJERAS CREEK GOLF CLUB Play through front “lake” nine, old-growth sycamores, oaks and native chaparral on back nine. Ted Robinson-designed. M-F $95, Sa-Su $120. 29082 Tijeras Creek Road, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.589.9793 Map east of E6 TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB Upscale, resort-style course designed by Ted Robinson has challenging greens, palm trees and lakes. County’s only public golf course with private caddie service. M-Th $110, F $130, Sa-Su $160. 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, 714.730.1611 Map C5
Active Outdoors AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in actual highperformance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing, riders have control in the air. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2 BALBOA BOAT RENTALS AND PARASAIL Panoramic views of Newport Beach and harbor while you’re aloft; choice of altitudes. Boat, kayak and standup paddleboard rentals, too. Parasailing $65-$75. 510 E. Edgewater, Balboa, 949.673.7200 Map N15
WELCOME TO KOALAFORNIA
THE NEW AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK. NOW OPEN!
CA SURF ’N’ PADDLE Surf and paddleboard lessons, rentals of beach chairs, surfboards and other beach and water equipment. 689 and 695 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.1423 Map I16 CHINA COVE KAYAK ADVENTURES Customized kayak tours around Newport Bay. Bicycle adventures, WhereSD_Mag_SDZoo_Fall2013.indd 1 too. Hidden beach Jeep and kayak tour is new. 949.632.4694, chinacovekayakadventures.com CLINT CARROLL SURF SCHOOL Son of surf great Corky Carroll offers instruction at all levels. Beach transport and equipment provided. Newport Cruisers Bike Rental Shop, 111 23rd St., Newport Beach, 949.355.7285 Map N15 COUNTRY TRAILS AND RIDING SCHOOL Guided horseback rides among massive coast live oaks and California sycamores. Tu-Su. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.538.5860, ctriding.com Map C5 JETPACK AMERICA New water-propelled-jet-pack adventure in (and over, of course!) Newport Harbor. $159-$549. 2600 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 888.553.6471 Map N13 PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES Electric bike rentals $14 per hour with two-hour minimum or $50 per day. Tour three piers and Newport Harbor for $69. 301 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.2782; 2515 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.612.7989; 34155 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.488.0696; 1065 Pacific Coast Hwy., Seal Beach, 562.296.5782 Map N9, M16, J16, C1 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! Or gentler flights in open-cockpit 1930s biplane. Rides videotaped and include DVD. 230 Dale Place, Fullerton, 866.484.7455 Map A2 SUP CO Paddleboard on the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. Lessons and rentals—and even paddleboard yoga classes—are available. Daily 9 am-8 pm. $30-$69. 1103 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 949.715.9730 Map I16
1-6 V House Ad_WSD 0508_Layout 1 1/31/12 3:24 PM sandiegozoo.org/koalafornia
BEFORE YOU FLY, SURF.
7/10/13 2:01 PM
www.WhereOC.com Discover timely information on current events, restaurants, sights and attractions on the WHERE Magazine website.
where BEC A US E YOU’ V E A RR I V ED
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Beaches + Parks Beaches + Parks ALISO CREEK COUNTY BEACH Steep shore creates powerful waves. All amenities and fire pits. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. 31131 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280 Map I16
AT THE NEW NHM
BALBOA BEACH Pristine sunning and swimming beach. All amenities. Metered parking. Along Balboa Boulevard at Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N14 BOLSA CHICA STATE BEACH Good for grunion hunting! All amenities and fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Main Street and Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach, 714.846.3460 Map N9 CAPISTRANO BEACH Wide, unblemished. All amenities. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. 35005 Beach Road, Capo Beach, 949.923.2280 Map F6
NOW OPEN
CORONA DEL MAR STATE BEACH Large, sandy beach—with volleyball—below beautiful homes. Lifeguards, all amenities, fire pits. Waveless cove adjacent. Fee for parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Marguerite Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16
NATURE LAB
NHM is now an OUTDOOR-INDOOR experience! NHM.ORG
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. Along 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. Good for snorkeling—and family photos. Free street parking. 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 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 (e.g., teeter-totter, climbing apparatus) and various water vessels for rent. Segway tours. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.DUNE Map M14 PIRATES COVE Secluded beach with harbor views; few to no waves make it perfect for little ones. Bouldering spot for local climbers. 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 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
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Beaches + Parks 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 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 tower fit for Rapunzel and 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 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. Setting features old-growth oak and sycamore trees. Families have picnicked at the park for more than 100 years. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6835 Map B5 LAGUNA NIGUEL REGIONAL PARK Wide selection of outdoor activities, including tennis, volleyball, jogging 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 O’NEILL REGIONAL PARK Expansive 3,300-acre park is a distinctive spot for both day use and camping. Includes the Arroyo Trabuco area, 935 acres of relatively pristine land maintained as a wilderness preserve. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, 949.923.2256 Map east of D6 PETERS CANYON REGIONAL PARK Blend of native vegetation and scenic trails. Lush groves of willows and black cottonwoods intertwine with a rambling creek and encase a 50-acre lake. Variety of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, 714.973.6611 Map B5 SANTIAGO OAKS REGIONAL PARK Secluded 1,750-acre refuge has a variety of trails, native oak trees and a historic dam. Nature Center open on weekends. Garden area is a popular location for small, weekend weddings. 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 mountainbiking terrain. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2200 Map H16 CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK 8,000-acres for day use and camping. Nature center; interpretive programs. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210 Map east of F6 LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK Sycamoreshaded canyons and high ridges offering spectacular ocean views and hiking, mountain biking and horseback
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Nightlife riding. Nature center serves as a gateway to 7,000-acre natural habitat. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.923.2235 Map G15 UPPER NEWPORT BAY NATURE PRESERVE At Newport Back Bay with vistas of the coastal wetlands. One of the finest birding sites in North America; several endangered species make this home. Interpretive center is open Tu-Su, 10 am-4 pm. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, 949.923.2290 Map K13
Historical Parks ARDEN: HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Home of world-renowned 19th century actress Madame Helena Modjeska. National historic landmark named for its resemblance to the Forest of Arden in Shakespeare’s As You Like It. Visits 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 Beautiful grounds with botanical garden and citrus grove. 1898 building presents a view of life in the early days of the county’s citrus farming. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places. 625 W. Bastanchury Road, Placentia, 714.973.3190 (Enter on Bastanchury near Placentia Avenue, across from Sierra Vista School.) 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 (At the corner of Lake Forest Drive and Serrano Road.) Map D6 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. Houses the O.C. Parks headquarters and a library branch. 13042 Old Myford Road, Irvine, 714.973.6609 Map C5 OLD ORANGE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Site of the local governmental transactions and court 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 the Peralta settlement, home to pioneering families in the 1800s. Visits by reservation through George Key Ranch (listing above). 6398 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim, 714.973.3190 Map A4
Nightlife AULD DUBLINER Classic Irish pub and restaurant; live music Th-Sa. 2497 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.259.1562; 71 S. Pine Ave., Long Beach, 562.437.8300 Map J14, northwest of C1 BAMBÚ Lounge is ideal for light dining or nightcap. Live entertainment. Fairmont Newport Beach, 4500 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.476.2001 Map K14 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 Map J14 COPPER DOOR Watering hole in basement of 1925 building. Pool tables, 40 beers. Tu-Su 8 pm-2 am. 2251/2 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.543.3813 Map H13 DETROIT BAR Downscale deco-meets-roadhouse-style bar, a hipster haven. Eclectic mix of indie-rock artists, nationally acclaimed bands and DJs nightly. 843 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.0600 Map M12
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Nightlife THE DISTRICT LOUNGE Retro spot near Newport Pier has 100-foot mahogany and copper bar. Orange location is in original 1920s post office. 121 McFadden St., Newport Beach, 949.673.4470; 223 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.639.7777 Map N13, C4 DUKE’S PLACE Live music and dancing at classy lounge with bay views. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888.445.7153 Map N13 HEAT ULTRA LOUNGE Vegas-style club near Disneyland has a state-of-the-art sound system and an indoor smoking lounge. Th-Sa. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.4328 Map I10 HOPSCOTCH The county’s best whiskey list, 75 craft beers, cocktails, creative and slow-cooked cuisine inside 1918 Pacific Railway Station. Two patios, one for cigars. Flat-screens air vintage westerns and sports. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.871.2222 Map B3 HOUSE OF BLUES Acclaimed venue offers touring bands, dancing and soul food. Filled with outsider art. Rafter-raising gospel brunch on Sundays. Call for schedule. Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.2583 Map I10 IRVINE IMPROV Top comedy. Two-item minimum (food or drink). Irvine Spectrum Center, 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5 LOLA GASPAR Bar and kitchen in Santa Ana’s Artists Village. Open until 2 am M-Sa, Su until midnight. 211 W. Second St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13 LUCKY STRIKE LANES Retro-cool bowling lounge with DJ. The Block at Orange, 20 City Blvd. West, Orange, 714.937.5263 Map J11
Come discover the beauty of Anaheim Hills Golf Course. We
welcome visitors to enjoy the incredible value of daily tee times and pristine course conditions – all nestled right in the heart of Orange County, located just minutes from Disneyland. Escape today and take advantage of our FREE Rental Club Offer, New Nike VRS Series Rental Golf Clubs, for a savings of $30.00! Play like the pros, or at least test drive the clubs they use. It’s on us! To redeem offer, book your round through your hotel concierge. www.AnaheimHillsGC.com | Phone (714) 998-3041 Anaheim Hills Golf Course | 6501 Nohl Ranch Road | Anaheim, CA
MARINE ROOM TAVERN Laid-back locals bar with pool table offers live blues and rock on weekends. Open until 1 am Su-Th, until 2 am F-Sa. 214 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3027 Map H15 MESA Small plates and cocktails at hip and stylish lounge with retractable glass roof. Open until 2 am Tu-Sa. The Camp, 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 Map J13 MULDOON’S DUBLIN PUB Cozy spot with courtyard offers fun Irish-themed events in the Celtic Bar. 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 Map L15 PIE SOCIETY New. Slick speakeasy hidden behind Pitfire Pizza offers innovative cocktails and superb snacks—the chef is from Venice Beach’s Superba Snack Bar. 353 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.313.6335 Map N12 ROOFTOP LOUNGE Hot spot for sunset cocktails on wraparound patio with panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15 STEAMERS CAFE Premier jazz spot, the county’s best. 138 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.871.8800 Map B3 STILL WATER SPIRITS & SOUNDS Nightly live entertainment. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003 Map J17 SUTRA LOUNGE Club with cool decor, musical acts and big-name deejays. Open Th-Sa. The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7103 Map K12 300 ANAHEIM 41-lane bowling alley with club atmosphere, full bar, eclectic menu. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map I10 TILTED KILT PUB & EATERY Celtic-themed pub with servers in plaid mini-kilts and sports on 48 screens. 1625 W. Katella Ave., Orange 714.633.5458 Maps I11
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Tours +Transport WILD GOOSE New and popular. Cocktails (and barrelaged 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 plays host to popular musical acts and deejays. Open daily. 307 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 888.862.9573 Map H13
Tours + Transport A LIMO ZONE Private limousine tours and transportation. Fleets include Lincoln, Chrysler, Escalade and Hummer limos as well as party buses. Hollywood tours, wine tasting tours and Las Vegas trips. Available 24/7. 714.381.5452 A LIST LIMOUSINE Private limousine tours and transportation. Complimentary sparkling wine, CD player, TV/DVD. 888.886.6644 ADVENTURES AT SEA Luxury yachts for groups. 3101 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.650.2412 Map N13 AMTRAK Train service within the county and to destinations throughout California daily. There are stops in Anaheim, Fullerton, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano and Santa Ana. 800.USA.RAIL, amtrak.com ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) Shuttles cover 19 routes with transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk and Anaheim Convention Center. Purchase passes online, at Amtrak station and select hotels. 866.364.ARTS, rideart.org BEST CHAUFFEURED WORLDWIDE Chauffeured vehicles available in as little as two hours’ notice. 7472 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach, 866.323.2378; 714.375.9128 Map C2 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 CALIFORNIA YELLOW CAB Transportation in sedans, town cars, minivans to/from airports, attractions, restaurants, nightlife, shopping. 877.935.5692 CATALINA EXPRESS Round trip from Dana Point Harbor and Long Beach to Catalina Island year round. Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Harbor; 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, 800.481.3470 Map K16, northwest of C1 CATALINA FLYER Fastest boat from Orange County to Catalina Island: 75 minutes. 500-passenger, triple-decker catamaran departs from the historic Balboa Pavilion. Call for schedule. $51-$68, $4 children 2 and under. 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 800.830.7744 Map N15 CITY PASS Pass includes discounted admission to Disney theme parks, and admission to other parks in L.A. and San Diego counties. Purchase online or at attractions. $269-$306, under 3 free. 888.330.5008, citypass.com CLASSIC MUSTANG RENTALS Cruise the coast in a classic 1965 Mustang convertible! Hourly rentals; hotel delivery available. 729 Farad St., Costa Mesa, 949.650.5202, classicmustangrentals.com Map D3 DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING Sportfishing, 82-foot schooner yacht for charter and whale-watching expeditions. Corporate parties, private fishing cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 800.979.3370, danawharf.com Map K16 DAVEY’S LOCKER Year-round whale-watching, deep-sea sportfishing, fishing charters and boat rentals
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Tours +Transport at Balboa Pavilion. 3400 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.HOTEL, enterprise.com EXECUCAR Luxury sedan service. Sedan and SUV, flat rates, special group services, frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.410.4444, execucar.com GONDOLA ADVENTURES Romantic gondola cruises through Newport Harbor canals. 3101 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.2067; 888.446.6365 Map N13 GW TOURS Segway tours of Huntington Beach. SoCal’s only company with tours on the sand. 120 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 657.464.9137 Map N9 HAVE FUN TOURS Sightseeing tours of Southern California’s highlights from San Diego to Los Angeles. Adults $99, children 3-12 $50. 714.658.2291, havefuntours.com HORNBLOWER CRUISES F-Sa dinner-dance cruises, Sa-Su champagne brunch. Mariner’s Mile Marina, 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.0155 Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT Gateway to O.C., vastly superior to LAX in ambience and ease of arrival and departure. Rotating art exhibits, “Red coat” ambassadors, new dining in Terminal C. Free Wi-Fi. Ticket counters open at 5 am. 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, 949.252.5200, ocair.com METROLINK Train system connects to San Diego, Riverside and Los Angeles; stops in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo, Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton and Buena Park. $10 Metrolink Weekend Pass on Metrolink rails and public transportation throughout Southern California Fri. 7 pm-Sun. 11:59 pm. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com OCTA Orange County Transportation Authority bus system. $2; day pass $5, 60 cents for 65 and older, under 5 free. Day pass for buses and Metrolink trains $7, $6 for senior/disabled. Exact change. 714.560.6282, octa.net PRIME TIME SHUTTLE Service 24/7 to SoCal airports, Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, Anaheim Convention Center. 800.RED.VANS, primetimeshuttle.com SUPERSHUTTLE Transportation to and from all SoCal airports around the clock. Groups and charters welcome. 310.222.5500; 800.BLUE.VAN, supershuttle.com TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Bus with state-of-the-art audio/video explores celebrity haunts and scandal sites. $53-$63. Starline Tours, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868
Tickets 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 Tickets to sporting events, theater shows and concerts, opposite the Honda Center. Local delivery available. 2620 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.TICKETS (714.842.5387), 714tickets.com Map I11 WEST COAST TICKET SERVICE Tickets to in-demand events throughout Southern California. 310.207.1226, wctix.com
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Renting a car is as easy as ordering room service.
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To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or e-mail viphotel@erac.com.
Applies to Economy through SUV size vehicles reserved in advance for rentals up to 30 days at participating Southern California locations. Participating locations are available by calling 1 800 rent-a-car. Sorry, this offer is not valid at airport locations. Rates are as posted at time of reservation at enterprise.com or by calling 1 800 rent-a-car. Weekly rates may apply depending on length of rental or for longer rental needs. Rental must end by December 31, 2014. Offer may not be used with other coupons, offers or discounted rates. Vehicles are subject to availability. Standard rental qualifications apply. Offer does not apply to taxes, surcharges, recovery fees, and optional products and services including damage waiver at $14.99 or less per day. Check your auto insurance policy and/or credit card agreement for rental vehicle coverage. Other restrictions, including holiday and blackout dates, may apply. Pick-up and drop-off service is subject to geographic and other restrictions. Void where prohibited. ©2013 Enterprise Rent-A-Car. E01833 10.13 JM
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30 things we love Orange County
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The Norrington cocktail, with cachaca, pineapple, lime, basil syrup and all-spice dram, at Hopscotch in Fullerton. p. 66 The African Flower, with bourbon, amaro, crème de cacao and orange bitters, at Blind Pig in Rancho Santa Margarita. p. 34 The mosaic murals depicting Newport Beach life at historical Newport Elementary School on Balboa Peninsula. 949.515.6965 The ocean views at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point. p. 61
The wetland vistas at Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine. p. 61 Quickie laser facials at new Skin Laundry, at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. 949.706.7203 The chili and the McConnell’s ice cream at Fashion Island’s Island Cinemas. 949.718.4382
where in the world
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Whale-watching trips with Dana Wharf Sportfishing at Dana Point Harbor. p. 56
The ropes course at Thrill It Fun Center, at the Outlets at Orange. p. 58
Ice skating at Aliso Viejo Ice Palace in Aliso Viejo. 949.643.9648
Sandwiches at new Paninoteca Maggio in Santa Ana. 714.426.8095
Wall-to-wall trampolines at Sky High Sports in Costa Mesa. p. 58
Cosmetics at Roots the Beauty Underground in Laguna Beach. 949.424.4266
Gelato flights in tiny cones at new Vitaly at the Camp in Costa Mesa. p. 44
Midcentury-modern everything at Design Within Reach, at South Coast Collection in Costa Mesa. p. 60
New Berluti for luxury men’s shoes at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. p. 10
California Impressionism at Irvine Museum in Irvine. p. 59 The aircraft and other historical vehicles at Lyon Air Museum, adjacent to John Wayne Airport. p. 59
The off-menu burger—with A-5 Japanese Kobe beef and black truffles—at Stonehill Tavern in Dana Point. p. 37 The Habit Burger Grill’s first drive-through in Orange County, new in Irvine. 949.955.9467 Artifacts at Titanic—the Experience in Buena Park. p. 58
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, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Las Vegas,
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee in Costa Mesa. p. 19
New Brioni for luxury men’s suits at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. 714.427.0945
Stationary, cards, pens and handmade gifts at Oh, Hello Friend in Fullerton. 714.441.9157
New Z Collection boutique at Crystal Cove Shopping Center in Newport Beach. 949.715.2245
The elaborate holiday displays at Rogers Gardens in Newport Beach. 949.640.5800
Whizpops, gobstoppers and other sweet treats at B.Candy in Corona del Mar. 949.675.3910
Four thousand plant species at Fullerton Arboretum, O.C.’s largest botanical garden. p. 57
Liquid-nitrogen ice cream at new Creamistry in Irvine. p. 21
Surfas Culinary District for foodie supplies at SoCo in Costa Mesa. 714.453.2665
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