Tableau Magazine - Spring 2024

TABLEAU

FROM KITCHEN TABLE MARKETING

SPRING

CLEANING

OUTDOOR DINING GUIDE

PLUS, LEARN HOW TO:

VISIT A FLOWER FIELD, HOST BACKYARD BEES, KEEP GROWING, SUPPORT EQUITY IN OC

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Anissa Brown

Anissa is a freelance writer based in Southern California. She recently completed grad school and has written journalistic pieces for various publications and companies such as Starbucks and Disney. She is also experienced in social media, marketing and consumer insights.

Sara Hall

Sara has nearly 14 years of experience at several daily and weekly newspapers, including The Record Searchlight in Redding, The Daily Advocate in Greenville, Ohio, the Newport Beach Independent, and most recently at Stu News Newport and Stu News Laguna. Her work has included photography, writing, design and layout. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, backpacking, traveling, and spending time with her husband and pets.

Ashley Ryan

Ashley Ryan has been writing her whole life, from short stories as a child to diving headfirst into journalism as a teenager. She has a degree in journalism and anthropology, and loves writing about travel, food, art, nature, people and anything in between. She currently serves as an editor for Firebrand Media and, when not working, she enjoys traveling, live music, hiking, reading, Pilates, swimming, going to the beach, visiting with friends or family and all things Disney.

Amy Senk

Amy is a CDM resident and a graduate of the Missouri School of Journalism. She has worked at the Kansas City Times, Kansas City Star, Contra Costa Times, Coast Kids and Coast Magazines, and is a regular contributor to StuNews Newport. A recent empty nester, she spends her free time with her husband and planning elaborate imaginary vacations.

TABLEAU STAFF

AKA The Kitchen Table Marketing Team

Carrie Freitas

Miki Akil

Madelyn Sutherland

Holly Pennino

Paige Wood

Kristen Campos

Lee Vujnovich

Allison Hata

TAKE NOTE

It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Marking its 27th year on May 16, 2024, the Newport Harbor Home & Garden Tour is a celebration of all things decor and design. Get inspiration for your next renovation project on a tour featuring seven beautiful homes in the Newport Harbor High School area. In addition to the home presentations, attendees can enjoy a luncheon and shopping opportunities at a specialty boutique overlooking the bay. “What I look forward to every year is the fabulous after party our presenting sponsor Barclay Butera hosts in his store on Westcliff,” says co-chair Karen Taylor. “It is always so fun to walk into Butera and see all the smiling faces of people who loved the tour and are celebrating!” Karen is also the mother of a child who attended Newport Harbor and a former president of the Newport Harbor Educational Foundation, which will use proceeds from the event to fund academic support programs, International Baccalaureate, field studies, instructional supplies, school safety, professional development for faculty and more. newportharborhometour.com

IG: @newportharborhometour —Anissa Brown

Photos courtesy of Newport Harbor Home & Garden Tour, Laguna Beach Yoga, and Donald and Elizabeth Lockhart

A Community Gathering Spot

From its name, Laguna Beach Yoga and Fair Trade reveals exactly what is offered: yoga classes and a retail shop featuring fair trade items crafted by women in Africa. But that doesn’t quite capture the essence of what owner Katie Bond Gallen and her husband, James, have set in motion. She has long dreamed of opening a studio shop inspired by the time she spent helping out in her grandparent’s combination fitness center/craft store during her childhood in Ohio. Her dream was realized last fall. “I like to think my grandma has left some of her magic with me,” Katie says. “What I’m creating with my husband and my two little girls is the same kind of feel: a down-home, community, know-your-neighbor and really care about our people kind of space.”

Stop by to peruse artisan products created in Kenya, Tanzania and Congo; experience daily classes that include gentle flow, meditation, breath work, power yoga and body sculpt; or attend an event like community circles, miniature retreats, sound baths, movement workshops or reiki certification classes. lagunabeachyoga.com | IG: @lagunabeachyoga —Ashley Ryan

Bonding with Bees

During the pandemic, those across the country found their way back to the simple things in life, from baking sourdough loaves to growing fresh produce in the garden. For Donald and Elizabeth Lockhart, there’s one more item on that list: beekeeping, a practice that can provide proponents with fresh honey while also protecting pollinators. “Bees are an integral part of our food source,” Elizabeth says. “We wouldn't have produce and fruits and vegetables and all that [without them]. There wouldn’t be beauty in our world. They just do amazing things for the Earth.”

Based in Orange County, Backyard Bees helps rescue and relocate beehives. Founded by Janet Andrews, who started beekeeping 20 years ago, the company is now mostly run by Donald and Elizabeth. The couple has an Adopt a Hive program that allows locals to work with Donald for a day. If you choose to continue, your program fee will cover equipment like the hive and stands, as well as two or three more sessions with Donald (he’ll even remain on-call for questions). You can also visit them at the Orange Home Grown farmers market on the first Saturday of the month to shop Backyard Bees’ honey and beeswax products. backyardbees.net IG: @backyard_bees —A.R.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

While the sprawling Tanaka Farms in Irvine is open year-round for farm tours, wagon rides and pick-your-ownproduce experiences, its sister farm offers flowers as far as the eye can see. At Hana Field in Costa Mesa, explore rows of cheery sunflowers in different colors and sizes — the perfect spring outing. In addition to the sunflowers, guests may be able to view colorful zinnias or stop by the Barnyard Educational Exhibit to visit with goats, chickens, pigs, donkeys and more. You can pick your own sunflowers for $15, though the farm requires you to bring your own cutting utensils; make sure to use something that can snip through the thick stems.

A few things to keep in mind: This is a working farm, so wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to combat the mud and weeds. Also, keep an eye out for bees and other pollinators that are drawn to the flowers. Hana Field is expected to open in time for Mother’s Day, May 12. tanakafarms.com/hana-field | IG: @tanakafarms —A.R.

Brews and Blooms

Step into a world where a love for caffeine and appreciation for plants blend in perfect harmony. Opened during the pandemic, the family-owned Houseplant Nation in Huntington Beach is the first hybrid plant shop and coffee house in Orange County. Lined floor to ceiling with beautiful plants and unique decorations, the storefront features cozy nooks nestled in greenery that are perfect for comfortably sipping your drink. The plant selection is top tier, with a selection of rare and imported varieties handpicked for health, uniqueness and an ability to thrive in different environments. But the experience doesn’t end there. Houseplant Nation is not just a shop — it’s a hub of activity and community excitement. Whether you’ve got a green thumb or want to catch a comedy show on the last Friday of every month, this is a must-visit hidden gem. houseplantnation.square.site IG: @houseplant.nation —Paige Wood

Photos courtesy of Tanaka Farms, Houseplant Nation, Sherman Library & Gardens, and SUGO Costa Mesa

Stop and Smell the Flowers

Sherman Library & Gardens is truly a place for all — for those who are young and young at heart. The botanical retreat tucked away in Corona del Mar is the perfect spring escape. Mark your calendars for May 11 for the upcoming Spring Garden Art Faire, which invites visitors to stroll through the gardens to the sounds of beautiful harp music. You’ll meet local artists and makers showcasing their botanical-themed artwork in a variety of mediums including watercolor, mosaics, oils, acrylics, ceramics, glass, leather, jewelry, quilling and driftwood. On an ongoing basis, the library also has a lineup of workshops and lively lectures ranging from children’s activities and watercolor classes to an evening speaker series featuring experts from the worlds of art, horticulture and history. Visit the website for an up-to-date list of all the seasonally inspired sessions taking place this spring. thesherman.org

IG: @theshermangardens —A.B.

Love at First Slice

A universal favorite, pizza holds a special place in our hearts. It’s rarely a question of whether to get pizza, but rather where to get it from. Earlier this year, chef Sandro Nardone of Bello by Sandro opened a new spot that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. SUGO Costa Mesa offers “pizza a pezzi,” which translates to pizza by the slice — a style commonly served in chef Sandro’s native Italy. He honors techniques that have stood the test of time, meticulously preparing the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness in SUGO’s crust. Top that off with the freshest of ingredients, from potato to Nutella, and you have a slice that embodies tradition and excellence in every savory (or sweet) bite. sugocostamesa.com

IG: @sugo_costamesa —P.W.

Bread, Pastries and More

Discover a place where classic meets modern: Eller Bakery has officially opened its doors in Costa Mesa. You’ll find everything from hearty breakfast options to fresh salads and sandwiches, along with handcrafted sourdough breads and pastries inspired by Western Europe. The bakery prides itself on passionately upholding Europe’s rich culinary traditions and sourcing rare ingredients from skilled artisans. There’s a focus on delivery high-quality, fresh flavors, so menu items are sugar-free, freshly milled and use the finest heritage grains grown before the introduction of scientific plant breeding. To complement your treats or breakfast, Eller Bakery also offers a wide range of espresso drinks made from artisanal roasts crafted inhouse. Grab a seat in the chic, cozy space and relax with a flaky, crisp croissant that’s worth waiting in a line that often wraps out the door. ellerbakery.com IG: @ellerbakery —P.W.

Photos courtesy of Eller Bakery and Joanne McDermott

Rehabilitating Raptors

DAt the Orange County Bird of Prey Center, raptor health and safety is always at the forefront. The nonprofit’s main goal of rescuing and rehabilitating has been a success, with thousands of birds saved since the late 1980s—including 148 last year alone.

The birds are evaluated at a veterinary office down the road before arriving at the rural center for further evaluation. “People need to know that they’re important to our ecosystem,” notes Harmonie Wooley, the center’s director of husbandry. There are multiple routes the nonprofit can take: rehabilitating the raptors before releasing them into the wild, finding placement for them at a zoo, or, if they have the right temperament, keeping them as education ambassadors. Others may have to be euthanized.

Although the center itself is closed to the public for the animals’ protection, there are a number of ways to see their education birds out and about, at schools, parks and community events, such as Earth Day at the Bay at Muth Interpretive Center in Newport

Beach on April 20, the SMWD Annual Water Festival in Rancho Santa Margarita on May 4 and Bugs & Butterflies at Riley Wilderness Park in Coto de Caza on May 19. You can also visit The Ranch at Laguna Beach every Saturday morning to learn about owls and hawks that live locally, how they survive in the wild and what goes into rehabbing these creatures. For those that would like to get more involved with the birds of prey, the center operates with a large number of volunteer workers. “We’re very much dependent on our volunteers for almost everything we do,” says Director of Administration Joanne McDermott.

This spring, if you see a baby raptor that has fallen from a nest, leave it be or call Animal Control to give it the best chance of survival. Reach out through the center’s website to get more information on how to become a volunteer or keep an eye on social media channels to look for upcoming community events.

ocbpc.org | IG: @ocbpc —A.R.

DO GOOD

BRINGING CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY TOGETHER

By Sara Hall

Connection and community are powerful tools, and it takes dedication and vision to bring the two together.

This rings true for Taryn Palumbo, who serves as the executive director of Orange County Grantmakers (OCG), a local organization that advances equity by creating strategic alignment and cultivating transformational relationships and leadership among philanthropists and nonprofits. OCG envisions an Orange County where philanthropists and nonprofits work together as partners to achieve equity for the region’s most impacted communities. But in a clarifying email, Taryn explains the group does not create grants or run programs in the community.

“What OCG does is cultivate relationships — among funders, among nonprofits, and ideally, between and among all the sectors including business and government,” she says.

The connections made through OC Grantmakers are important because it is through authentic relationships that true synergy happens, Taryn adds. And a single connection can make a notable difference.

Photos courtesy of Orange County Grantmakers

“I love that through the conversations OCG hosts, the people we bring together and the synergies that we help create, we empower nonprofits to have the most impact in the space they work in,” she says. “Over my years with OCG, I have seen countless partnerships, collaborations and alignments develop simply because people took the time to come together, share what they are working on and/or what their priorities are, and realized that they are not alone with the work.”

While there are more than 9,000 charitable organizations in Orange County, Taryn points out that the nonprofit community is actually rather small — and so is the funder community.

“After a while you start to see how folks intersect and how the same people are at every meeting. Because of this ‘small town’ feeling, connections and relationships are even more important than in other communities,” Taryn says. “You never know when a random connection made in the past will turn into a vital relationship for the future.”

‘Just Ask’

Taryn lives by an important mantra: “Just ask.”

“Ask if there is anything else you can do, if there is someone else you should meet, if there is another opportunity out there,” she says. “You never know where it will lead.”

Aside from summer jobs while in school, she’s never landed a job simply by submitting an application. Throughout her career, every position has come about in part because of a connection she made through an existing or new relationship.

A trained attorney, Taryn graduated from Chapman Law and passed the California Bar in 2011. She wanted to work in public policy and government affairs and was lucky enough to land an internship at the Orange County Business Council. From there, she went to the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, where she held titles including manager of public policy and

later Director of Strategic Partnerships.

“It was in this role that I discovered philanthropy,” Taryn says. “I absolutely fell in love with the space.”

Through her work at the SF Chamber, she created, grew and implemented a workforce development initiative called UniteSF, which aimed to engage tech companies in the local schools. She sought investment from the business community, particularly the corporate social responsibility departments.

When Taryn moved back to Orange County, she wanted to get a job in philanthropy — “no matter how hard it was going to be to break in.”

She cold emailed anyone she could find with the right title in Orange County and three amazing women answered: Sarah Middleton, who was with PIMCO at the time and is now running her own social change

consulting firm called Mission Up; Anne Olin with Charitable Ventures, a nonprofit that provides fiscal sponsorship and incubation services to charitable projects; and Shelley Hoss with the Orange County Community Foundation, which strengthens resources for nonprofits through creative and collaborative opportunities.

At the time, all three were a part of what was thencalled the Orange County Funders Roundtable (now Orange County Grantmakers). The group happened to be in the process of looking to hire a part-time executive administrator. Taryn initially didn’t want to take the position, she recalls, as it was part-time and an administrator job.

“After some reflection, I figured it would introduce me to the community I wanted to work for,” she says.

After a year, she asked the board if they would promote her to become the organization’s first fulltime staffer and executive director. Although it came with some new responsibilities on the administration side of things, her previous worked prepared her for the new position.

“My role at the SF Chamber started strictly in the public policy space but quickly morphed into a position that required me to go out into the community, connect with local leaders and really learn what the community wanted and needed,” Taryn says. “That is basically what I do now, but for the nonprofit space. My job is all about understanding what is happening in Orange County, what the funders are supporting [and] what nonprofits need, and trying to bridge the gap between the two.”

Building Community for OC Philanthropy

While her focus now is less on public policy, Taryn has found an important similarity between her jobs in San Francisco and Orange County. Both require an emphasis on impact — but with OCG, it’s about what she and the organization can do to drive positive change for the community.

Over the years, she has also worked with some notable leaders in both spaces, including Kate Klimow, Chief Operating Officer, University Advancement and Alumni Relations at UC Irvine, and Jim Lazarus at the SF Chamber, who both demonstrated the power of listening.

“I try and take those values, of listening to the community and identifying the need, and bring it to the philanthropic community in OC,” Taryn says.

She recalls a job interview she had many years ago when the interviewer asked her if she liked politics or policy better. At the time, she didn’t have an answer (likely the reason why she didn’t get a job offer), but today she can firmly say it’s policy. And policy is not necessarily only changed at the government level.

“That change — that impact — happens on the ground,” she says. “How are we talking about the issues impacting our community? How do we make sure we are getting dollars to the areas and people that need it most? And how can that have an actual, actionable, tangible impact in our community?”

Those are the questions OCG aims to answer.

Taryn works with people who are making Orange County a more equitable place, either through funding the work or through day-to-day programs

Photos courtesy of Orange County Grantmakers

on the ground. As executive director, she connects philanthropists with each other and with nonprofits. OCG provides several learning and networking opportunities for funder members, nonprofits and local leaders throughout the year. Taryn attends all of these meetings, as well as community events, and regularly meets with funders and nonprofits.

Powered by a team of just two (Taryn and Program Manager Ana-Christina Murillo), OCG is small but mighty — which means Taryn wears several hats. Her job is also board liaison, operations and finance lead, communications director, support for Murillo with content and events, and lead point person for the 400-person Annual Summit held in October. Taryn also sits on a variety of community commissions, committees, collaboratives and boards, including the Cross-Sector Childcare Task Force; California Jobs

First; Orange County Health Access and Enrollment Task Force; and the executive committee for the OC Forum.

“Most of my day is spent in meetings — learning, supporting dialogue and ensuring our community is as connected to one another as possible,” she says. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way!”

To learn more about Taryn’s work with Orange County Grantmakers, visit ocgrantmakers.org.

TO ORDER

PERFECT PATIOS

By Ashley Ryan

There’s no doubt — spring is in the air. After the dreary winter rain, sunshine and fresh fare are just what the doctor ordered. Luckily, Orange County is filled with alfresco patios that make it a joy to dine outdoors. Whether you’re surrounded by colorful flowers by day or strung lights by night, the laid-back atmosphere of these restaurants will have you opting to sit outside all season long.

Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens

This patio is one of the best in Newport Beach. It’s located at a plant nursery, where trees, plants and florals create a dining hideaway in a garden setting. The chef visits a farmers market every week to procure only the finest produce, ensuring that the menu is fresh as can be (and absolutely perfect for spring). A local favorite is the Today’s Pizza, which changes regularly, but you’ll also find veggie-forward dishes, seafood, sandwiches, an array of small plates and crisp salads packed with ingredients. There is also a vast cocktail program, which includes sips benefitting rotating charities. farmhouse.rogersgardens.com | IG: @farmhouseatrg

Photos courtesy of Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, Trevor’s at the Tracks, Topside at Lido House, and Wales Communications

Trevor’s at the Tracks

With a menu of locally acquired but globally inspired cuisine and a unique atmosphere — within an Amtrak depot in San Juan Capistrano, in a building that was constructed in the 1800s — the outdoor courtyard at Trevor’s at the Tracks is a sight to behold. Red brick and a tranquil fountain lend themselves to the historic vibe that you’ll enjoy as you dine on dishes such as a California-shaped charcuterie board, sushi-inspired Tokyo Tacos, the No Lettuce salad, chargrilled flatbreads, burgers, Brazilian flat iron steak, Thai curry cioppino and more. You can also listen to live music on the patio seven days a week. trevorsatthetracks.com | IG: @trevorsatthetracks

Bosscat Kitchen & Libations

Though there is also a patio at the Irvine location, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Old Towne Orange offers some extra historic flair. The building was a beloved liquor store for more than 70 years as well as a gas station, automotive garage and horsedrawn carriage repair shop. Nods to this storied past, like old gas pumps and antique metal pieces from the horse-and-buggy repair shop, make this a truly special spot to dine. On top of that, the delicious comfort food will make it tough to choose. Don’t miss the spicy chicken and cheese dip, shaved pork chop sandwich, 12-hour beef short rib, Carolina barbecue salmon or, for brunch, peach cobbler waffles. bosscatkitchen.com/orange | IG: @bosscatkitchen

Topside at Lido House

Few scenes rival those found at Lido House hotel in Newport Beach, where the Topside rooftop deck offers sprawling views of the coastline, the city and, if timed correctly, the vibrant sunset. Don’t worry about the cool ocean breeze — the fire pits will keep you warm. Current menu offerings include crispy Jidori chicken skewers, yellowtail ceviche, a prime skirt steak quesadilla, truffle fries, crispy avocados, organic hummus and a churro funnel cake for dessert. As for libations, you’ll find great variety such as spirits, wines by the bottle, zero-proof drinks and cocktails like the Topside margarita adorned with a seasonal ice pop. Among the other creative sips are the Under the Sea cocktail featuring gin, kiwi and lime, an espresso martini, the yuzu-lavender Sandbar and more. lidohousehotel.com | IG: @topsideatlido

The Deck on Laguna Beach

Sit right above the sand and listen to the crashing waves at The Deck, a Laguna Beach hot spot that features an outdoor dining room next to the sea. Open for lunch and dinner, this eatery serves up sensational seafood options like the opulent seafood tower, tuna tartare, Mexican white shrimp tacos, steamed clams and mussels, Dungeness crab Louie salad, a grilled mahi-mahi sandwich, pan-seared local halibut and much more. Of course, there are options for those who aren’t seafood lovers as well, but that is definitely the main focus. deckonlaguna.com

IG: @deckonlaguna

A Hidden Vine on the Lake

Set on Lake Mission Viejo, you’ll feel as if you’re transported out of Orange County as you relax at this wine-centric restaurant. While exclusive tasting experiences and winemaker events are the norm at A Hidden Vine, there are also exceptional food pairings to accompany your vino. Try small snacks, like marcona almonds, a vegetable and hummus plate or burrata with pita bread and arugula, or order custom charcuterie boards in various sizes with cheese, cold cuts, crackers, nuts, dried fruits and jams. A Hidden Vine also offers flatbreads that are baked to order with artisanal cheeses in flavors such as sweet brie, chicken bacon ranch, fig and goat cheese, chicken pesto, a vegan option and more. ahiddenvine.com

IG: @ahiddenvine

Photos courtesy of The Deck, A Hidden Vine, Habana, and SET Steak & Sushi

Habana

Filled with greenery and vintage decor, the patio at Habana will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to a Cuban eatery. There are two locations in Orange County — one at The LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa and another at the Irvine Spectrum Center. Start with The Taste of Habana, a platter that offers varied bites, including pork croquetas and both chicken and vegetable empanadas, all served with a banana-habanero ketchup. As for entrees, enjoy classic dishes such as ropa vieja, paella, el churrasco, medianoche, plantain-crusted chicken and salmon a la parrilla. restauranthabana.com | IG: @restauranthabana

SET

Steak & Sushi

What’s for dinner — steak or sushi? At this new hot spot at the Pendry Newport Beach hotel, which opened late last year, you don’t have to choose. Both are exceptional. Build your own plate from a list of classic cuts, dry-aged dishes, wagyu choices and large-format steaks, then customize your choice with sides and sauces. As for sushi, SET offers specialty rolls such as the Surf and Turf, the Green Goddess and the Toro Toro Toro, but the restaurant also has unique menu items including a bluefin tuna pizza, whole lobster tempura, a caviar tower and specialty nigiri flights. And with a patio that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, with glowing fire columns and round lanterns hanging from sprawling trees, it’s perfect for date night, too. setnewport.com | IG: @setnewport

Julep Cast Iron Kitchen + Drink

Certain cities in Orange County have a booming culinary scene while others are more up-and-coming. Brea is definitely the latter, though Julep Cast Iron Kitchen + Drink stands out. The airy patio is a great place to unwind; Julep also offers heaters and blankets to stay cozy if it’s chilly out. The cocktail game is strong here with shareable drinks for groups, a whiskey flight and Irish coffee in addition to Prohibition-era classics and signature drinks. As for fare, weekend brunch highlights include cast iron skillets, biscuits and gravy, and a Julep Benedict. The lunch/dinner menu features dishes such as rock shrimp beignets, short rib sliders, a barbecue chicken salad, jalapeno grilled cheese, Southwest burger and a steak sandwich. julepbrea.com | IG: @julepbrea

Benchmark

Santa Ana is filled with restaurants that have quaint patios on which to relax, sip a drink, have a meal and peoplewatch. Strung lights and modern furniture just add to the peaceful setting at Benchmark. On the menu, you’ll find approachable culinary creations with a lot of shared plates, such as ahi tuna, tandoori roasted carrots, Korean barbecue tacos, salmon rillette, roasted grape and goat cheese salad, Parmesan herb fries and more. Larger plates are available as well, from the Benchmark burger, gochujang fried chicken and cacio e pepe to shrimp and broccoli risotto — plus three types of cake for dessert: butter, chocolate and carrot. benchmarkoc.com IG: @benchmark.restaurant

Photos courtesy of Julep Cast Iron Kitchen + Drink, Benchmark, Postino Park Place, and Treehouse on PCH

Postino Park Place

Inspired by the underground music scene in Orange County in the 1990s, this is a unique spot with a fun patio out front. The cuisine is elevated and casual all at once — think shrimp scampi, meatballs with goat cheese, roasted mushroom fondue as well as soups, salads, charcuterie boards and paninis. The eatery also offers bruschetta boards, which are great for wine pairing and come with four varieties of your choosing (favorites include warm artichoke spread; brie, apple and fig; and Mexican street corn). Several infused lemonades are available, but you’ll want to sample the vast selection of wines. Enjoy vino by the bottle or the glass from California, France, Italy, New Zealand and beyond. postinowinecafe.com | IG: @postinowinecafe

Treehouse on PCH

Rising above Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach, this “treehouse” at Paséa Hotel & Spa is a fun hangout for drinks, snacks or watching the sunset. The rooftop spot features fire pits, cabanas, plush sofas, swinging chairs and a central, light-up bar that looks like a real tree. With happy hour deals during the week and live DJs on the weekends, you can’t go wrong, whether you want relaxation or to turn up with friends. Dine on dishes such as crab cakes, wildcaught fish tacos, truffle Parmesan fries, cauliflower ceviche, crispy jumbo chicken wings, a lobster roll, sea bass ceviche or a burger. Everything pairs well with cocktails like the Monkey Business, LD’s Catalina Island Iced Tea, Pink Flamingo, Havana Memories, Serenity Cove, HB Dahlia and more. paseahotel.com

IG: @treehousehb

The Rooftop Lounge

Soak up the sunshine on the roof of the historic La Casa del Camino hotel in Laguna Beach. Known throughout Orange County as the perfect waterfront dining spot with rolling blue waves as far as the eye can see, The Rooftop Lounge is especially famous for its fresh mojitos. Other cocktails available include a pomegranate martini, Rooftop Spritz, Squeeze of Summer, Lime in the Coconut, sangria and more. In addition, enjoy a menu of flavorful dishes such as a Nashville hot chicken sandwich, spaghetti fra diavolo, seared sesame ahi salad, spicy fish and chips, Mediterranean hummus, farmers market street corn and crispy jerk wings. rooftoplagunabeach.com

IG: @rooftoplounge

Versai Kitchen & Wine Bar

After being in business in Yorba Linda for 30 years as Fitness Grill, a recent rebrand to become Versai Kitchen & Wine Bar reinvigorated this eatery. Italian and Mediterranean fare mingle flawlessly, with separate menu sections for each style as well as for pizzas, salads, shared plates and handheld items. Some standouts include the Napa Berry salad, Mexican short rib pizza, shrimp and scallops, lamb chops, saffron chicken kabob and buffalo lasagna. Grab a seat around the patio fire pit to enjoy one of the decadent dishes paired with a wine flight, cocktail or coffee drinks. versaikitchen.com | IG: @versaikitchen_yorbalinda

Photos courtesy of The Rooftop Lounge and Versai Kitchen & Wine Bar 22

AT HOME

SPRING CLEANING IS IN FULL BLOOM

By Sara Hall

Spring is a season for fresh starts, both outside and in. As the flower buds start emerging, it awakens our senses to the thick layer of winter dust accumulating on the mantle. There’s no better time to tidy up, declutter and get organized. And a revival inside the home that reflects the reawaking happening outdoors can also provide a boost to your mental and physical health.

Changing a space can change lives, according to Newport Beach-based organizer Shanel Arnold of Home on Point. “When your space is organized and feels good — so will you,” she says.

While you might feel inclined to dive into spring cleaning headfirst, revamping your home top to bottom can still be a daunting task. From taking it one space at a time to perfecting the art of listmaking, here are a few tips that will make this annual chore a breeze.

Photo courtesy of Coastal Organizing Company

Keep, Toss or Donate

When spring cleaning and organizing your home, Shanel suggests starting small.

“Don’t just jump into the deep end and burn out. Slow and steady wins the race when you’re tackling your own space,” she says. “My biggest recommendation is going space by space. Don’t try and do too many spaces in one day.”

Start with something approachable, like a drawer or part of the kitchen. When you’ve gained momentum, tackling something like your closet and garage will feel more doable.

To stay motivated, Shanel suggests “editing” as you organize — meaning letting go of things that aren’t working for you anymore to make room for the new things that will serve you better. As you get rid of items, it will start to make the space feel less cluttered. “Once you have a space that feels lighter, it is easier to get that space organized and functioning,” she says.

Her biggest tip for the most noticeable difference while decluttering is to focus on the editing process. Choosing what to keep, toss and donate will be the start of any space or room, she explains. “From there you work toward function.”

She also suggests paying attention to the small details. Something as simple as changing out hangers

so they all match (she prefers the cream-colored, non-slip style) can make a huge difference.

Another small tip with a big impact? Getting a label maker.

“Sometimes something as simple as putting labels on a drawer and the satisfaction of feeling organized on something small will help you feel motivated to keep going,” she adds.

Photos courtesy of Olena Bohovyk, Coastal Organizing Company, Kate Laine, and Karolina Grabowska

Use a Little Elbow Grease

While the process of spring cleaning includes decluttering and organizing, it also focuses on a deep clean of the home. It should be a more thorough scrub of the nooks and crannies than your regular tidying up.

According to a 2024 survey conducted by the American Cleaning Institute, the trade association representing the U.S. cleaning products supply chain, 80 percent of Americans plan to spring clean this year — more than a 10 percent increase from just three years ago.

“Spring cleaning is a great way to help achieve a safe and healthy home while getting rid of a winter’s worth of dust and clutter,” said ACI Senior Vice President of Communications and Outreach Brian Sansoni in a March 2024 press release.

One of the tasks that nearly half of respondents called out as the worst was cleaning spaces that are hard to reach or access, like behind or underneath furniture or appliances. Other spots that tend to get extra filthy were also noted in the survey, including bathrooms, vents and basements. But despite dreading some of these tasks, they were still willing to roll up their sleeves and get cleaning. For a third of the survey

participants, spring cleaning only takes a day or two.

To prepare for this annual cleaning overhaul, officials at ACI recommend taking an inventory of supplies and making a to-do list of what needs to be refreshed. Like Shanel, they suggest dividing this list up by task or room.

The usual tasks like dusting, vacuuming, cleaning upholstered furnishings and wiping everything down, including metal hardware and other fixtures, may be no-brainers, but don’t forget to look both up and down. Experts like Merry Maids note that baseboards are often overlooked spots that can collect a lot of dirt.

Spring is also a good time to ensure your home’s safety measures are up to date. Take the time to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and check the expiration date on fire extinguishers. Other checklist items include updating first aid kits, tossing expired medication, checking all electronics, untangling cords and testing surge protectors.

While every household is different, getting organized, decluttering and cleaning is an important step in creating a fresh start for spring, Shanel says. Because after all — when you get organized, both you and your home can function at a higher level.

KEEP GROWING

A FRESH START IN A NEW YET VERY FAMILIAR PLACE

By Amy Senk

Right now, I’m at Caffe Trieste, where the locals are gossiping about divorces and lost eyeglasses and the regular who looks like a poet is making notes in his journal while drinking his latte. Church bells chime outside, opera plays on the juke box (which also offers Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin along with Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti), faded celebrity photos adorn the wall and there are plenty of mosaic-topped tables to choose from. I’m at one in the corner, which maybe will become my regular spot. I’m hoping my muse finds me here. If it was good enough for Francis Ford Coppola when he was writing the screenplay for “The Godfather,” I should have no excuses.

My new hangout is on the corner of Grant and Vallejo in my new, albeit temporary, home in North Beach in San Francisco.

This spring, I’m having a fresh start, or at least a total change of scenery for the next two months — all part of a complicated story that began in 2020 when a city water main ruptured and flooded our home in Orange County.

Photo courtesy of Amy Senk

Two years later, the same water main ruptured and destroyed our home a second time. We’ve been in hotels and rentals ever since, more than a dozen different temporary places.

My husband’s office is in San Francisco, so when we no longer had any assistance with housing in Newport Beach, we found a little apartment where he can walk to work. We moved in a few days ago and discovered that if you look at a mirror that the landlord rigged up, you have a faraway view of the Golden Gate Bridge. We’ll enjoy it while we can, until we can get home again.

It's a new beginning, but it’s also a chance to renew my acquaintance with the city where I lived when I was falling in love and a newlywed and, eventually, a new mother. It’s temporary, because my life has been nothing but a series of temporary situations for more than three years. I won’t be here long enough to put down true roots, like finding a full-time job or making new best friends. I will be here long enough to know where to go get the best takeout noodles or learn the best way to carry heavy groceries up a hill.

I had no way to know if moving back here, even for a few months, would feel like a fresh start or a return to our past. So far, it’s been a combination of both. It’s all very different and yet very, very familiar. We clearly are in new territory after more than two decades of life in Southern California. And while we are terribly homesick, we’re doing our best to make the best of things.

The city has changed from when I lived here in the 1990s, and not only in the horrible ways that San Francisco haters warned me about when I told them my plans. In our new neighborhood, I have not yet seen any crime, nor are there more empty storefronts than we have back home. Some of my old favorite places are gone, some replaced with new versions and some with “For Lease” signs in the window. There seem to be a lot more tattoo establishments, and I don’t remember North Beach having green, red and white lights over the streets (maybe they were always there and I didn’t notice). It’s fun to walk to Chinatown for dinner on a rainy Sunday night and pass bars with live music, families picking up their takeout, shops open late and lines in front of all the best pizza spots. After only a few days, I’m already making new routines. I don’t have a car here, so I’ve been walking to grocery stores that require hikes past noisy cable cars and a zillion Italian restaurants and the bakery that made our wedding cake. I’ve been trying to figure out if I want to spend my mornings writing at Caffe Trieste or at Cafe Réveille, a slightly farther walk.

My time here won’t all be about embracing what is

different and new; I plan to spend some time revisiting the past. I have a list of friends to connect with, mostly old journalism colleagues. There are two specific people I’ve fallen out of touch with, and I want to track them down. I’ve been giving some thought to how to approach that, starting with going to their last known apartment and ringing the doorbell. I’m hoping it’s that easy — that they answer the door, and we hug and begin catching up like no time has passed. I really hope that’s what happens.

This spring is about a fresh start in a new place. It’s temporary, and it’s not home. But we’re making the most of it. What else can we do?

TO READ

SPRING PAGE-TURNERS

By Lido Village Books

Embark on a literary journey this spring and discover your new favorite book with these recommendations from the booksellers at Lido Village Books. As seasoned curators of exceptional stories, they are dishing out their top picks for the season’s must-reads that will have you glued to the pages. From captivating narratives steeped in history to tales of love and resilience, these books will spark your imagination and leave you enriched, inspired and eager for more. lidovillagebooks.com | IG: @lvbabookstore

“Martyr!”

by Kaveh Akbar

Mo recommends this story of a young man recently sober, orphaned and living life in the Midwest. His head is between his knees until he’s called suddenly to visit New York — specifically, the art exhibit of a dying woman who will sit in a museum and talk to a line of strangers about death every day until she passes. He finds himself pounding on the wall of art's meaning, death's meaning and this insistence on saying he's "alone in this life despite all evidence to the contrary." With incredible heart and gorgeous writing, “Martyr!” is a whole new way to tell a story.

“The Storm We Made”

by Vanessa Chan

Kat has not been able to let go of this riveting story, a work of historical fiction set during WWII but told from the perspective of a Malaya (Malaysian) mother who entangles herself with a Japanese man and unwittingly becomes a spy for him. This book explores the devastating consequences she put on her family by the choices made in pursuit of doing the right thing. It’s a haunting and beautiful story of a WWII that is rarely discussed or written about.

Photos courtesy of Lido Village Books

“The Waters”

by Bonnie Jo Campbell

Set in rural Michigan and evoking a strong sense of place and character, “The Waters” is at the top of Ellen’s current reading list. From the beginning you feel immediately drawn into the Gothic, almost magical landscape and the people who live there. Rooted in mythic and folk traditions but with a very real, modern and gritty take on reality, this is a powerful read about love in all its forms.

“A Little Life”

by Hanya Yanagihara

The beauty and tenderness of the writing has enthralled Hannah and cemented its status as her favorite read of the year. At a time when so many novels are romanceforward, “A Little Life” captivates with a friendshipcentered narrative. It’s a refreshing portrait of the kind of unconditional acceptance and care we long for, and the ways it reshapes us into better versions of ourselves.

“The Boys in the Boat”

by Daniel James Brown

Guada can't stop gushing over this true story of a college rowing team made up of the sons of loggers, fishermen and farmers who defeated Hitler's Germany in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. This beautiful underdog story offers a breathtaking peek into the power of the human spirit despite suffering and hardship. Prepare for heart palpitations and to cry your eyes out!

"Harrow”

by Joy Williams

Adam proclaims “Harrow” is the novel we deserve. Our earth is dead and so, probably, are we. Yet in Joy Williams’ first long-form fiction in 20 years, we persist — mostly without enthusiasm, in curious ways: bowling alleys, unbeautiful resort grounds, existential court proceedings. A favorite character in the book is a stagnant black lake named Big Girl, so thin and sticky with toxins she “wouldn't take a drop of rain.”

“Fourteen Days: A Collaborative Novel”

by the Authors Guild

Michele M. recommends reading “Very Powerful!” from this short story collection with a twist. Written by 36 prominent American and Canadian authors, each story is told to us via characters in a New York apartment building. Set during the COVID lockdown, the cast of characters gather on the roof of their building every day at 7 p.m. to exchange stories riddled with conflict, redemption and more than a few surprises.

“Still Life”

by Sarah Winman

Michelle P. can't keep “Still Life” on the shelves! It's a beautiful story of community, art and living life. The dialogue is cheeky but stunning, poetic and everything a story should be — the perfect read for spring or summer.

LAST LOOK

Tipping Point

Elyse Katz

Acrylic, Mixed Media, and Cold Wax on Panel

Residing in Newport Beach, Katz draws inspiration from the landscapes of her inner world, crafting vibrant compositions that resonate with emotion and introspection. Her creative process is a journey of spontaneity and experimentation, employing acrylic paint, oil pastels, and found materials to create textured narratives that unfold across each canvas.

Enquire at Kennedy Cotemporary by visiting this exhibition at https://kennedycontemporary.com/exhibitions/20sense-memories-elyse-katz/overview/ , emailing info@kennedycontemporary.com or calling/texting 714.519.6297