FROM KITCHEN TABLE MARKETING
WHERE OC'S FOOD WRITERS EAT
HIGH TEA OR LOW KEY WHERE TO SIP A CUPPA
PLUS, EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO: SHOP SMALL + LOCAL FOR BIG IMPACT, GET INVOLVED WITH GRASS-ROOTS CHARITIES, REDISCOVER SAN FRANCISCO
Bridget Belden is founder and CEO of Magenta Consulting, a coaching organization providing world-class tools to empower women to discover who they are beyond being a mom. After Bridget’s own struggles to find fulfillment as a mom with young kids, she started Magenta Consulting to help others on the same journey. She lives in Orange County with her husband of 30 years, Charlie, and their dog Max. She loves travelling, spending time with friends and family, and will rarely pass up the opportunity for a good meal and a nice bottle of wine.
Allison Emery is a freelance writer based in Orange County. She holds a master's degree in journalism from Syracuse University and has written for numerous local magazines, including Laguna Beach Magazine and Newport Beach Magazine, among others. She resides in Dana Point with her husband, two kids and Pomeranian, where they love to spend time at Doheny Beach and watch the surfers hit the waves.
Nancy’s crooked path started in the television newsroom and meandered through marketing communications, advising students on their college application essays and freelance writing for publications like Tableau. The common thread: storytelling. She also serves on the board and volunteers at Save Our Youth (SOY), an after-school program for underserved students in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District. In her free time, Nancy avidly enjoys running, skiing, hiking and walking her labradoodle, Emmy.
A freelance writer based in Southern California, Allison Hata loves telling the stories of people, places and ideas that shape our communities. Her writing has taken her around the world, from Macau to Mexico City. Closer to home, she has covered the latest in social impact news, guided travelers on family-friendly excursions and profiled local luminaries. She holds a journalism degree from Cal State Northridge, and lives in Orange County with her husband and daughter.
Anne Marie Panoringan
Anne Marie reports on the hospitality industry, including current events, food and beverage, as well as travel for Culture OC. She recently served her third term as judge for James Beard Foundation. Anne Marie has also contributed to LAist, Eater LA, and Voice of OC (where she launched a dedicated food column in 2020). Panoringan’s travel and food writing has been acknowledged by the Orange County Press Club. Anne Marie previously worked at OC Weekly where she interviewed over 300 industry professionals for her “On the Line” column. A recurring guest in-studio at AM 830’s SoCal Restaurant Show, she has also written for publications including Westways and South Coast Plaza’s Taste
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 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.
Paige is a recent graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, earning her Communications B.A. with a minor in Professional Writing in the Multimedia Communication track. She is hoping to enter the Advertising or Marketing world but is trying her hand at a little magazine writing! Born and raised in Newport Beach, Paige loves where she lives and loves sharing it with others, making Tableau an amazing fit. In her free time, Paige enjoys exercising, crocheting, and spending time with friends and family.
Carrie Freitas
Miki Akil
Madelyn Sutherland
Holly Pennino
Paige Wood
Lee Vujnovich
Allison Hata
Freddie Molenda
By Allison Emery and Ashley Ryan
Looking for a summer dining experience that combines the sizzle of a steakhouse with the cool breeze of the coast? Head to Rare Society in San Clemente, where vintage Las Vegas glam meets modern seaside dining. The family-style menu is a carnivore’s dream, featuring the signature wood-fired, Santa Maria-style grilled steak and other cuts like the succulent Snake River Farms Wagyu tri-tip and the 35-day dryaged bone-in ribeye. For those who prefer surf over turf, the raw bar serves up fresh oysters on the half shell and a seafood tower that’s as impressive as it is tasty. Let's not forget the progressive cocktails that are perfect on a warm night, including The Bookkeeper, made with mezcal, grapefruit, lime and cinnamon. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Rare Society is the place where summer evenings come alive with delectable dishes, vibrant vibes and unforgettable memories. raresociety.com | IG: @raresocietysteakhouse — A.E.
The Resort at Pelican Hill, a beacon of luxury on the Newport Coast, is embarking on a new journey under Marriott International’s stewardship, transitioning under its management beginning July 1. Bringing the coastal five-star resort under the fold of Marriott's global hospitality portfolio is sure to bring enhanced experiences, including access to the Marriott Bonvoy program and rewards. Marriott will operate the 504-acre destination under the current name until it transitions to the St. Regis brand at a later date. As the doors open to this new era, locals and guests can expect a seamless blend of Pelican Hill’s iconic charm with the longstanding heritage and bespoke service of St. Regis. pelicanhill.com | IG: @pelicanhillresort A.E.
Embark on a summer night’s dream with the Ocean Institute’s bioluminescent cruises. Just as dusk falls over the Pacific Ocean, the R/V Sea Explorer sets sail off the coast of Dana Point and promises a spectacle of light, where marine life like plankton, squid and fish illuminate the waters with their natural luminescence. This two-hour voyage is a maritime ballet, a dance of light and life, all under the starry embrace of a summer night. Don’t miss this luminous adventure, which is only offered through October. oceaninstitute.org | IG: @ocean_instutute — A.E.
For fine art photographer and filmmaker Taylor O’Sullivan, one thing is clear: If you take the time to stop and look at the world around you, you’ll find beauty in nature. Nowhere is this more evident than at Culterra, a pop-up gallery opened by Taylor in early June. “I really didn’t see anything like Culterra in Laguna Beach,” she says. “… Nature’s artistry is everywhere you look. The gallery itself is steps from the ocean, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.”
Open through July 25, the space offers museumquality prints for the home, with materials sourced from Italy and framed locally. These snapshots explore scenic destinations from across the globe, running the gamut from aerial shots and landscapes to minimalist and abstract pieces. Stunning images from Slovenian rivers, the Egyptian desert and Italy’s verdant mountains are nestled among photographs taken at beaches in Laguna Beach and San Clemente. After the pop-up runs its course, her work will be available on the Culterra website with customizable sizes, styles and frames. culterra.art | IG: @culterra_ —A.R.
From the mountains to the oceans, Orange County’s wildlife is surrounded by things that can cause them harm. For local pinnipeds, the most common issues arise from injuries due to boats, fishing line, nets and humans themselves, or illnesses like infection, pneumonia and malnourishment. The Laguna Beachbased nonprofit Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) is quick to step in and provide a safe space where seals and sea lions can rest and recover.
Summer is one of the center’s busiest seasons, with events taking place regularly to release rehabilitated patients back to the sea. Few things are as heartwarming as watching these playful creatures
return home. While the center undergoes a renovation and expansion, supporters can stay connected by purchasing an annual pass that will provide access to these release events. Available on the PMMC website for $300, the passes include an invitation for you and a guest for all events for one year. Proceeds will allow the center to buy fish (a.k.a. food) and medicine for its pinniped patients and provide specialized care and treatment.
Last year, PMMC rescued more than 260 patients from the ocean and welcomed more than 38,000 people to its facility in Laguna Canyon. When the center reopens, tentatively scheduled for this fall, it will resume its education, ocean stewardship and outreach programs to ensure a better marine environment for these spirited creatures. pacificmmc.org | IG: @pacificmmc —A.R.
By Ashley Ryan
Orange County is filled with nonprofits that aim to fund important causes — from pets, wildlife and the environment to the many issues people face, including hunger, homelessness, domestic violence and access to education. With so much good happening in one place, it’s easy for organizations to fly under the radar. These nonprofits may be lesser known, but that doesn’t stop them from putting their whole hearts into the cause.
Three years ago, Orange County resident Laura Ford decided it was time to step in and help the butterflies. “I always enjoyed gardening when I was a child … and so, when I came to Laguna, I learned about what was happening to the monarch butterfly population,” she says. “I was walking through Heisler Park and I thought, ‘How can we sit here, being essentially in paradise, and not think outside of ourselves as to how we can help a beautiful butterfly?’”
So, the Pollinator Protection Fund was born. Since 2021, Laura has led the effort to help not only monarchs, but other pollinators as well, including various species of bees and hummingbirds. A big part of this push has been the creation of public gardens from Los Angeles to San Diego. Laura herself draws up the blueprints for these naturedriven masterpieces, which can be found in parks, hotels and housing communities along the coast. She also does much of the heavy lifting to add the proper soil and maintain its health before selecting and planting milkweed, native grasses and other plants.
In addition, Laura put together roughly 20 habitat boxes that were given away to teachers and parents in early June. Containing chemical-free, organic soil and plants like lilac verbena and narrowleaf milkweed, the boxes also serve as educational tools to spread the word about how creating new spaces can help birds and insects thrive. Another giveaway will be held Aug. 3r at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano during the Festival of the Butterflies. protectmonarchs.com | IG: @pollinatorprotection
Hunger and food waste stand in opposition, yet they’re two very common problems. Abound Food Care works to combat both issues by linking restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, growers and other distributors with places for them to donate excess food items. Beyond that, the nonprofit combines modern technology and human kinship to connect food recovery organizations throughout the region.
The group started more than a decade ago — originally launched as Waste Not OC by Eric Handler, a former public health officer, and Mark Lowry, director of the Orange County Food Bank — with the hopes of reducing the 35 percent of food that is wasted each year. With a lack of consistency throughout the supply chain, Abound Food Care has had to develop its own ways to measure the effectiveness of its programs. By connecting major players, developing solutions to waste and optimizing systems, it believes food items can be utilized more effectively and help strengthen the community in which we live. aboundfoodcare.org | IG: @aboundfoodcare
For nearly 100 years, WISEPlace — “WISE” meaning women, inspired, supported, empowered — has fought to house the homeless in Orange County. “We exist because we believe in a future where every woman can and should be housed and safe,” explains CEO Brateil Aghasi.
The nonprofit currently has a 96 percent success rate through efforts that include providing secure shelter and more permanent solutions for housing. It also offers wraparound services such as counseling, case management, goal creation, financial planning, employment assistance, socialization and addiction recovery.
“All other nonprofit organizations in O.C. focus on women with children [or] families, which leaves thousands of unaccompanied women, and more and more older adults and seniors, … vulnerable and experiencing homelessness,” Brateil explains. “WISEPlace stands in this gap of services for women of all ages without children [or] families, and has proudly served over 8,600 unaccompanied women since our 1929 inception.”
But the path to this goal has not always been easy.Despite the nonprofit’s long-standing history, Brateil says it almost had to shut down in 2017. Having to rebuild the following year was difficult,but she says they pushed through to reach a place where the organization is thriving rather than just surviving. “We’ve come a very long way, and I’m proud of our desire to keep growing and evolving with our current affordable housing expansions to reach even more women in the community with quality and sustainable services that end homelessness,” she adds. wiseplace.org | IG: @wiseplace
“Wildlife living freely in their natural habitats are more precious to me than any precious stones,” says Azi Sharif, founder and executive director of Wildlife Jewels. “That is why I came up with the name of Wildlife Jewels. Sadly, wildlife face[s] growing devastation from human-induced threats.”
Initially, Azi launched a line of jewelry to showcase the beauty of wild animals while also raising awareness to help them. But her practice has expanded since with a goal of protecting these helpless animals from the threats they face. The nonprofit’s programs
combine the arts with conservation and education to get the community involved, which she accomplishes through marine waterway and beach cleanups, art exhibitions, rescue programs, wildlife monitoring, outreach initiatives and educational webinars.
One cause that Wildlife Jewels has focused on this year are the starving and emaciated brown pelicans on the California coastline. Azi’s plans include developing a pelican crisis response team to search for distressed birds and improve their chances of survival. “During the height of the crisis in Orange County, we monitored local beaches daily, including Corona del Mar State Beach,” she shares. “We found at least 30 distressed pelicans, with one severely entangled in fishing gear.”
The recent rescue of a 2-year-old female that the team named Amazonite further enforced Azi’s faith in the importance of her work. “This experience underscores our belief at Wildlife Jewels that every … [animal] is invaluable, and every action counts in saving lives. We are excited to showcase Amazonite the pelican in our upcoming art collection launch, where her story and our arts program will shed light on the beauty of pelicans and the threats they encounter.” wildlifejewels.org | IG: @wildlifejewels
By Allison Hata
Fancy a cuppa? Orange County is taking cues from across the pond to deliver afternoon rituals fit for royalty. If you’re craving a proper spot of tea and tiered trays of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and dainty cakes, there’s no shortage of places to gather — each with its own SoCal twist on tradition. From posh establishments with formal service and ocean views to charming cafes with options for all ages, here are some of our favorite tea rooms around town.
This Irvine Spectrum Center spot is the embodiment of the popular Sanrio character. The front of the cafe offers counter service with beverages and baked goods, but those with afternoon tea reservations will be invited to step into The Bow Room. Awash in pink, the cheerful seating area features playful touches like Hello Kittyshaped tiered trays and teapots topped with a signature bowl. Sweet and savory items are on the prix fixe menu, which includes cucumber and egg salad finger sandwiches and a scone along with unexpected bites like a pesto tart and smoked salmon croissant. For a sweet finish, bite into a Sanrio-themed cake as you finish a pot of sweet and tangy hibiscus birthday tea. Afternoon tea is held every Wednesday through Sunday. ($60 per person, ages 4 and up) hellokittycafe.com | IG: @hellokittycafeirvine
Nestled in the heart of Old Town Tustin is a cafeboutique known for its colorful lavender lattes. While the cafe is a cozy spot to catch up with friends during the week, the patio is reserved every Friday through Sunday for afternoon tea. Smoked salmon and cucumber finger sandwiches are served with a scone and desserts including macarons and a miniature sprinkle doughnut, paired perfectly with a selection of hot teas like the popular peaches and cream. Champagne and mimosas are available to order, including a glass of bubbly infused with the cafe’s signature lavender syrup. There’s also a special Tea for Tots hosted monthly for children ages 2-5, which includes story time and a singalong with a themed character like Alice in Wonderland along with lemonade and treats. (Afternoon tea: $39 adults, $29 children ages 7-13; Tea for Tots: $25 per child) morninglavendercafe.com | IG:@morninglavendercafe
Irvine’s family-owned and operated 30-acre farm launched its own take on high tea this year, a special event held one Sunday a month. On the menu is farm-to-table fare like salads, quiche, and finger sandwiches prepared with fresh-picked produce from Tanaka’s own fields, along with a selection of sweet treats and scratch-baked scones with lemon curd. While sipping on your black or herbal tea, enjoy a storytelling session that will guide you through the history of the farm. Every session ends with a signature wagon ride around the property. ($65 per person, ages 12 and up) tanakafarms.com | IG: @tanakafarms
Perched on a seaside bluff, Montage Laguna Beach offers a new kind of afternoon tea for those 21 and up. Called Tea with a Twist, this spirit-centric experience features a craft iced tea along with two tea-based cocktails of your choice or a half-bottle of Champagne. It’s held in the Lobby Lounge every Friday through Sunday, complete with views of the Pacific to enjoy with a selection of the resort’s traditional tea bites like a miniature lobster roll and pink macaron. ($216 per person) montagelagunabeach.com | IG: @montagelaguna
Sip tea in an enchanted garden setting at this San Juan Capistrano spot that offers daily seatings. It’s a whimsical experience straight out of a fairy tale — complete with an historic 1911 restored cottage. There are several tea experiences to choose from that all include assorted tea sandwiches, a freshly baked currant scone, fresh fruit, sweets and a pot of loose leaf tea. Optional upgrades range from a glass of Veuve Clicquot or a mimosa to heartier bites like soups and garden salads. For little ones, peanut butter and jam, grilled cheese, or turkey and Swiss tea sandwiches are on the menu with sweet sips that include a Shirley Temple or pink lemonade. ($42–$74 adults, $29 children ages 10 and under) theteahouseonlosrios.com | IG: @theteahouseonlosrios
Offering indoor and outdoor seating in Old Town Seal Beach six days a week (closed Tuesdays), the quaint tea room has a traditional menu of tea and treats. You can choose to indulge in soups and salads along with your pot of tea and assorted sandwiches — just be sure to leave room for a homemade scone in seasonal flavors like Earl Grey blackberry. Kid-friendly sandwiches are available along with lemonade for younger guests. ($31–$36 adults, $16.50 children ages 12 and under) mckennasteacottage.com | IG: @mckennasteacottagesealbeach
Tucked away in Huntington Beach’s Old World Village is a quaint tea room and British market run by a woman who arrived in the States by way of Yorkshire, England. She’s created a traditional English tea room that serves both high tea and afternoon tea Tuesday through Sunday, with the former including a hearty bowl of the soup du jour along with the requisite finger sandwiches like coronation chicken and curry, side salad, and warm scones. Children have their own “Little Princess” tea menu, and can join in the fun with milk or lemonade served in a mini teapot. ($31–$36 adults, $16.50 children ages 12 and under) pamelastearoombritshop.com | IG: @pamelastearoom
This Michelin-starred restaurant in South Coast Plaza offers an afternoon tea experience that is as decadent as it is elegant. Held every Saturday, the refined ritual begins with your choice of French handcrafted loose leaf teas, followed by a selection of seven savory bites like a Maine lobster eclair and caviar deviled egg, as well as delicate pastries such as a red bean mooncake and Parisian macarons. Indulge with a caviar service upgrade, which includes pomme gaufrette, toasted brioche, and oeufs brouillés along with one ounce of your selected caviar. ($115 per person) knifepleat.com | IG: @knifepleat
By Nancy Gelston Fries
When I attended Laguna Beach High School more than 40 years ago, nearly every girl carried her books in an African kikuyu bag. I was all but certain of exactly where each girl purchased her bag. Not at Laguna Hills Mall, though we loved to take the OCTA bus there. Not online (no Internet yet). And not on an exotic trip. Those bags were purchased at a store on Forest Avenue called Thee Foxes’ Trot that specialized in artisan-made, ethnic home furnishings, clothing and accessories. Indeed, I felt a small debt of gratitude to each girl with a kikuyu bag because for 37 years, my family owned that store.
My parents passed the retail gene to my two sisters but — while I sometimes helped out on holidays — I followed a different path. Nevertheless, my longtime exposure to the retail business instilled in me a deep appreciation for thoughtfully curated local stores. Whether looking for home decor, an article of clothing or simply browsing, I relish the sense of discovery in a small shop. I know the care the owner puts into selecting each item, and I delight in seeing how they’ve pulled everything together into a cohesive experience for me, the shopper. It’s a world apart from department stores or big box chains, where buyers are tethered to brands, deciding mostly how many of each size to order. Sure, I buy my jeans at Nordstrom and my paper towels at Target. But I find those ubiquitous stores predictable, their racks and racks of options overwhelming and uninspiring.
My younger sister, Jeanna Mingram, essentially grew up behind the store counter and remembers an endless parade of colorful vendors. “Mom and Dad would buy things out of people's trunks or from artisans who came in and said, ‘Look what I made,’” she recalls.
Our parents traveled to gift shows and purchased some larger brands from distributors, but they also focused on found objects, unique imports and local wares. Once she was old enough, Jeanna worked there for many years. Now she has her own store, Driftwood Home + Lifestyle in Seal Beach, where she also incorporates local influence. “Yes, I buy from some bigger manufacturers, but I'm always looking to support small businesses,” she says. “I have candles in my store that a local mom pours herself. I sell jewelry from a gal who lives in Long Beach.”
I felt that local vibe in stores I stumbled upon on some recent trips. At B Huno in Barcelona, a few doors down from my hotel, clothing designer Barbara Oliveras sells her own line and select other items. I cherish my purchases from her store, in part because they evoke memories and cannot be found anywhere near home. Similarly, in Chicago, I strolled up Michigan Avenue, passing Neiman Marcus and Louis Vuitton with hardly a glance, turning right on Chestnut Street to find Space 519. In addition to a thoughtful collection of designer clothing, handbags, personal care products and home goods, the gourmet Lunchroom cafe occupies part of the space. It’s special. I hope that tourists to Orange County feel
that our own local retail is special, bringing home cherished objects from Corona del Mar or Lido Village, Old Towne Orange or San Juan Capistrano. But those stores can’t subsist on tourism alone; we locals need to frequent them, too.
Shopping local also helps me avoid the pitfalls of shopping online. I still have leftovers from my pandemic buying binge. Items would look so promising on the website, deliver a momentary thrill on arrival, but more often than not rot in the back of my closet. More recently, two online purchases arrived, one five sizes too large and the other one size too small. If I had shopped local, those items wouldn’t have even made it to the dressing room.
A frequent bonus of shopping at small stores is their gift wrap. It spares me from rummaging through my bin for paper, ribbon and tag, but more importantly adds flair to even the simplest gift. My parents’ store was known for its black wrap with colored ribbon and a sprig of eucalyptus, and Jeanna has resurrected that style. “It just makes it feel elevated and like somebody took the time to put some thought into it,” she says.
Of course, one of the best reasons to shop local is to support the entrepreneurs who live in our community. I didn’t spend much time on the other side of the counter, but I have seen the dedication and creativity it takes to create an enjoyable shopping experience, from product selection to the layout of the store to the scent when you walk in. I am grateful to the people who supported our family by buying kikuyu bags and other treasures at Thee Foxes’ Trot for all those years, but it wasn’t charity. “People appreciate good design, things that aren't necessarily manufactured in bulk, things that are crafted with love,” Jeanna says.
You might discover an appealing little shop just around the corner or a few miles up Pacific Coast Highway. It might be a little harder to park than at the mall. The merchandise or the hours might be less predictable. But supporting local retailers is a lot more satisfying than supporting the behemoths. Only by frequenting local establishments can we preserve the character that makes our area distinctive, not only to tourists but to us. So, this summer, ban the big box, ditch the department store, cut the chains and show the locals some love.
From charming boutiques and artisanal food markets to sweet bakeries and stunning jewelers, discover small treasures that capture the spirit and diversity of the region.
By Paige Wood Sugar + Grain Bake Co.
A fresh-baked homemade cookie holds a deeper meaning — it evokes nostalgia for simpler times, fosters a sense of community and expresses love. For your next batch of homemade cookies, try the classics baked with love at Sugar + Grain. Pick up your order in Santa Ana or have treats like a box of chocolate chip, campfire, graham cracker, salted dark chocolate and celebration cookies delivered to your door. sugarandgrain.com | IG: @sugarandgrainco
Browse thousands of record albums, 12-inch singles, 45s, CDs, cassettes, stickers, buttons, patches, and more at Costa Mesa’s go-to shop for vinyl. Owner Dave Noise has been an avid vinyl collector since 1979 and has a storied background in the music industry, including owning the independent record label Noise Noise Noise named after his original shop that was a local institution for 15 years. Factory Records buys, sells and trades all genres, with new product out daily. IG: @factoryrecordsdavenoise
An outfit’s not complete without jewelry, whether it’s a subtle accent or a standout statement piece. Handmade in California, Boy Cherie offers gold-filled fashion jewelry that are on-trend and made to last. From delicate necklaces and statement earrings to bold bracelets and versatile accessories, the designs are as unique as the individuals who wear them. boycherie.com | IG: @boycheriejewelry
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or just because, cakes are the life of the party. Indulge your sweet tooth at Sift Bakery with a fun, creative cake custommade for your celebration. But that’s not all — the bakery also whips up cookies, bundt cakes, loafs and cookie dough, with plenty of gluten-free options, too. thesiftbakery.com | IG: @sift.bakery
A grab-and-go grocery and gift store in Laguna Beach, Mercado offers ready-to-eat lunches, organic ready-to-cook meals and ingredients. The shop opened in May 2022 after owner Summer Tarango struggled to find healthy, easy meal options while fighting breast cancer. After joining forces with Molly Rossiettem from Hi Sweetheart, Mercado launched a fun party and gift section in addition to selling wares from small, local business owners. Produce from the Santa Monica Farmers Market and products from Laguna Baking Company are among the local favorites. Summer’s Table, which produces all the food for the store, also offers catering that you can have delivered, served or picked up in-store. mercadolaguna.com | IG: @mercado_laguna
Summer is here — dive in and make a splash with a fresh swimsuit. Sustainability meets swimwear at Nuku Swim, a woman-owned brand that makes every product locally in Orange County to ensure fair wages. The colorful tops and bottoms are not only stylish, they’re also made from recycled materials and packaged in a way that avoids single-use plastics. Order online or find Nuku Swim at local shops including Surfside and Purre Boutique in Costa Mesa. nukuswim.com | IG: @nukuswim
Timeless elegance meets modern minimalist at this home and lifestyle shop inside The OC Mix in Costa Mesa. Find a range of products designed to enhance your home, including textured vases, rich textiles like bed linens and towels, sturdy kitchen and dishware, and the perfect books to style your coffee table. Best of all, the goods are made to last while bringing a sense of harmony to your home. modernwaremarket.com | IG: @modernwaremarket
Magic is made in a former boat shed in Newport, where Slightly Choppy creates handmade surf flags that pay tribute to California ocean locales. Fly flags from San Clemente, Capo Beach, Catalina and even the Wedge — each piece captures a bit of the surf community’s history and nostalgia and offers a celebration of coastal living. slightlychoppy.com | IG: @slightlychoppy
This home furnishings studio has a commitment to quality craftsmanship and ethically sourced materials. From pillows and other textiles to wall art, décor and accessories that reflects a blend on modern sophistication and classic charm, each piece in the curated collection brings luxury and effortless style. Initially an online-only platform, Bird + Belle now offers in-person shopping at two locations in Orange County, a vintage showroom inside Antique Depot in Old Town Orange and a retail storefront at Seaside Gallery & Goods in Newport Beach. birdbelleshop.com | IG: @birdbelleshop
By Anne Marie Panoringan
Most journalists who specialize in food writing appreciate dining in general. From holes-in-the-wall to strip mall favorites or more upscale, the range of cuisines writers prefer to dine at often leans toward casual or less expensive menus. Putting this theory to the test, we asked local restaurant journalists to share their favorite (but lesser known) destination to have a meal. Here’s what they crave.
“Nok’s Kitchen is located in an unassuming strip mall in Westminster but they serve the most comforting and delicious Laotian food,” Sarah says. “This used to be more of a hidden gem but they have (rightfully) received recognition from the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and OC Register in recent years. I am always overwhelmed by the menu because I have never had a bad dish here. Everything is beautifully presented on natural baskets with plenty of fresh herbs and lip-numbing vinegars for dipping. They are best known for Lao sausage, which I always include in my order, but the salmon larb and crispy rice salad are also favorites of mine.” nokskitchen.com | IG: @noks_kitchen
“Thirty years older than Yelp, this threadbare haunt near the vintage fire station in Placentia serves carnitas tacos so fat and juicy and cheap, they’ll haunt your dreams forever after your first bite,” Gretchen says. Fresh bolillos bulging with carne asada are the best-selling torta, though she’s a fan of the loaded sopes. Family-run and not always speedy, it’s a local legend unknown to most outside its zip code.
Nearly hidden in plain sight, this unassuming flower and gift shop in Cypress specializes in a surprisingly customizable afternoon tea offered daily. Classics empowers patrons to select both their sandwich and tea flavors from a bountiful selection that fills a binder and satisfies a range of tastes, something I find most tea services don’t offer. Dining tables are surrounded by displays of jewelry, home accessories and yes, flowers. classicsflowers.com | IG: @classicsflowersandconfections
“No one really knows about Goodies in the Pantry [in Orange],” Lily says. “Not only does it include a cute little market with Romanian imported goods, proprietor Claudiu Giorgioni will make the best grilled sandwich you've ever eaten or a tomahawk steak dinner on the weekends, take your pick. They're always making something new there.” goodiesinthepantry.com | IG: @goodiesinthepantryoc
“Low-key and ultra deluxe, downtown Brea’s modern steak boutique is sleek and spendy,” Gretchen says. “On-point prime dry-aged steaks, swanky seafood and weekly specials attract special occasion diners and men of a certain age.” Perch at the bar to enjoy charcuterie, her “personal (and affordable) guilty pleasure. She also recommends the Wisconsin old-fashioned, an extraordinary sipper with Kirschwasser and cognac. oldbreachophouse.com | IG: @oldbreachophouse
Benjamin Epstein
Freelance writer and former editor of WhereOC
Gretchen Kurz
Orange Coast magazine restaurant writer and critic
Allison Mitchell
Editor-in-chief of Modern Luxury/Riviera Orange County
Anne Marie Panoringan
Culture OC food columnist and three-time James Beard Awards judge
Lily S.
OC Feed Writer
Matt Szabo Daily Pilot reporter
Sharon Stello Editor of Laguna Beach Magazine and Newport Beach Magazine
Christopher Trela
Executive dining columnist for the OC Business Journal and Newport Beach Independent Off the Menu columnist
Sarah Mosqueda
Staff writer at LA Times Food
“A rye sourdough culture is the base of almost all the baked items at Rye Goods, which means everything from the fresh-baked country loaves to the bagels and pastries have the same rustic, nutty and complex flavor,” Sarah says. “The Tustin location is hidden behind an office complex, where an A-frame sign is the only clue that the bakery’s commercial production kitchen for all locations and a small storefront is just beyond the door. Living so close to this location has proven dangerous since I often stop by for a bagel, smeared with their house-made veggie cream cheese and a loaf of bread. If they have a Kringle in the pastry case though, it’s hard to resist ordering one. Basically Rye Goods’ version of a Danish, the Kringle is filled with cream cheese and whatever fruit is in season, topped with a cinnamon crumble and a drizzle of icing.” ryegoods.com | IG: @ryegoods
An Adams Avenue strip mall in Huntington Beach is home to a family-owned Italian restaurant with craveworthy food and an intimate setting. “My favorite dish is the risotto Fiorentine, a delectable mix of Arborio rice, chicken, spinach, mushrooms and onions and just a touch of marinara sauce,” Sharon says. “The spaghetti Bolognese is divine, too, with a savory meat sauce that will leave you wanting more. My boyfriend's go-to is the chicken Marsala, with mushrooms and onions in a creamy sauce served with pasta aglio olio.” monalisacucina.com | IG: @monalisa_cucina
As an industry veteran and professor at Chapman University, Chris dines out often. When posed with selecting an establishment, he was straight to the point about the fast-casual Great Bites in Huntington Beach: “They are a fast casual restaurant in downtown Huntington Beach. Small, but with amazingly good food.” Find California coastal comfort food on the menu, like burgers, sandwiches, tacos, burritos and bowls greatbiteshb.com | IG: @greatbiteshb
“Ha Long Bay [in Tustin] has long been a favorite for a good, quick meal. If you are friends with me, I have probably asked you to meet me here before,” Sarah says. “The price is right, the portions are generous, and I never leave unsatisfied. The pho is served in large bowls, piping hot. I tend to favor meatball pho anywhere I go, but the house special with rare steak, flank, brisket, fatty brisket and tendon is the best deal. (I usually just ask for a side of meatballs.) While it’s the pho that drew me in initially, specialty dishes like the stir-fried egg noodles with shrimp, beef chicken and mixed veggies (E4 on the menu) and the banh mi sandwiches have become favorites, too. When dining in, I rarely ever skip an order of the chicken wings, which are impossibly crispy and served with sweet chili sauce.” halongbayphogrillrestaurant.com
A Costa Mesa institution, this family owned spot is great for casual gatherings and game days. The menu features classic pizzas with thick, chewy crust (including gluten-free options), as well as daily Italian specials like manicotti and stuffed shells. “I stumbled onto Haus of Pizza when I first came to Orange County nearly 20 years ago,” Matt says. “The Haus Special pizza is my go-to, heavy on the toppings, including some of the best sausage around.” IG: @hauseofpizza
“Huge, traditional tacos here are generously filled with beyond–the-usual cuts like buche (pork stomach), chicharron, costillas (beef ribs), etc. - and the single best chips in the universe!,” enthuses veteran food and cocktail writer Benjamin Epstein. “It’s all but hidden near El Toro Bravo Meat Market in Costa Mesa; stand up or takeout only – and a personal favorite for decades”. eltorobravo.net
“This enter-through-the-back-door speakeasy is a dark, teensy gem serving shockingly elevated cocktails—plus darn good eats from the Pitfire Pizza kitchen behind the wall,” Gretchen says. “Funky thrifted furniture and a colossal Muhammad Ali mural belie the boisterous family scene beyond Pitfire’s front door [in Costa Mesa]. Look for the makeshift patio at the building’s rear to access the speakeasy door.” IG: @piesocietybar
This Newport Beach hidden gem moved from Costa Mesa about a year ago to the west end of town. “Without any windows, you would have no idea what lies within when driving by on Pacific Coast Highway,” Sharon says. “Step inside and the vibrant dining room is filled with colorful tapestries hanging from the ceiling, intricate wood tables, jewel-toned pillows, ornate light fixtures and more. The food hails from Morocco, Algeria and Spain — think flamegrilled meat skewers with couscous, and tangine, which is meat that's slow-braised in an earthenware pot. Everything is flavorful and the meat — like the honey lamb tangine simmered with spices, apricots and prunes — is so tender, it falls off the bone. And, on Friday and Saturday nights, there's often belly or flamenco dancing for dinner and a show.” restaurantcasablanca.com | IG: @thecasablancarestaurant
“In Laguna Beach, one of my favorite new spots is Wigz, a deli that opened last summer in a former wig shop on South Coast Highway,” Sharon says. “Everything I've had there is great, but my go-to is the pesto grilled cheese, which is packed with veggies from tomatoes to artichokes, with melted provolone, pesto and balsamic drizzle. Another favorite is their meatball sandwich, made with meatballs from Rumari, the Italian restaurant next door. Also, Wigz has a great hidden patio if you walk all the way through the shop to the back.” wigzlaguna.com | IG: @wigzlb
A carb lover’s fantasy tucked into one corner of an Irvine business park’s modest food court, I salivate while peering into the aquarium window bakery from within The Blessed Braid. Despite my personal preference for savory eats, it is at Blessed where kosher-certified, non-dairy treats attempt to woo me. I cannot give up pastry just yet, requesting a warm Belgian waffle every time. Bonus: It’s a womanowned, small business that crafts all products on-site. theblessedbraid.com | IG: @theblessedbraid
“As a San Clemente native, my favorite hole-in-thewall eatery in Orange County is the Surfin’ Chicken Grill in Pico Plaza,” Allison says. “It’s family-owned, and while its name might suggest trying the chicken, my go-to order is the grilled salmon plate with beans, Spanish rice, salsa and tortillas. The salmon is incredibly flavorful and for $13, you can’t beat it.” scsurfinchicken.com | IG: @surfinchickengrill
By Bridget Belden
Ahh, summer. When I was a kid, summer meant days that stretched out forever, punctuated only by trips to the beach, sleepovers and lazy mornings. As an adult, I still felt that freedom when my kids were little. There was a part of me that celebrated with them — the no homework, flexible schedule part — while the other part of making sure their days were filled (camps, camps, camps!) was in direct opposition.
As a young mom, I was all about getting business done. I had to be to a certain extent — I worked outside of the home and having schedules nailed down was a necessity. Now that I am older and the kids are out of the house, at least for the moment, I have come to appreciate the importance of play (which kinda sounds like an oxymoron).
Something happens as adults who are “adulting.” We lose touch with that freedom we had when we were kids rolling around in the sand, playing in mud puddles or letting our imaginations run wild with sticks, rocks or any other tool that could conjure up a journey from here to there and back again. We were creative and imaginative, and man it was fun!
This summer, I am choosing to embody some of that freedom again, making time for more things that are just … fun. No matter your age or stage in life, I invite you to join me. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
● Join a local sports league (soccer, basketball, tennis) or participate in individual sports like swimming, cycling, or running. These activities not only keep you fit but they also provide a social outlet.
● Explore trails, parks and natural areas in your area. Hiking offers physical exercise and a chance to connect with nature, which is good for the soul.
● Take up dance classes like salsa, ballroom or hip-hop.
● Whether you take a class or play around at home, painting, drawing, sculpting or other arts and crafts are a great way to let your creativity flourish.
● Write short stories, poetry or even a blog. Not sure where to start? Write every day for 10 minutes to see where your mind takes you.
● Learn to play a musical instrument or join a local choir or band.
● Organize game nights with friends or family. Play classic board games, strategy games or card games like poker or bridge. Or try my new fave — mahjong!
● Solve jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, Wordle or other brain-teasing games.
● Participate in trivia nights at local pubs or try an escape room challenge with friends or older kids.
● Plan trips and explore new places, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a staycation or a longer vacation.
● Take cooking or baking classes, or host cooking parties.
● Practice yoga or meditation to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body.
● Whether it’s planting flowers and vegetables or maintaining a small herb garden, gardening can be therapeutic and fulfilling.
● Read for pleasure and join book clubs to discuss your favorite stories. This can be a great way to enjoy literature and connect with others who share your interests.
This summer, take a cue from the kids and choose something that brings your heart joy. Whether that’s building sandcastles on the beach with your children or taking dance lessons with your partner, make time to play — you deserve a break from the tasks of daily life. Who knows what magic awaits you?
By Amy Senk
Before our temporary move to a tiny apartment in San Francisco’s North Beach this spring, we experienced a very common reaction from friends: warnings to be careful, that the city was failing, that we would be confronted continually by drug overdose deaths and crime and vacant storefronts.
What we found instead was a friendly neighborhood where residents picked up trash from the sidewalks each evening, where the letter carriers knew us by name, where empty businesses were noisy with construction inside. The city has problems for sure — a record number of drug overdose deaths last year, a Financial District still reeling from the pandemic work from home era, retail establishments closing and leaving a void in oncevibrant areas.
But many locals are getting tired of the “failed city” narrative.
“It just makes me furious, because it's just not our experience,” said my longtime friend Dru, who moved to the city in 2021. “It’s so opposite of our experience.”
Dru spent 30 years figuring out how to move to San Francisco after a visit when a stranger on a park bench overheard her wishing aloud, put down his newspaper and said, “Do it.” She’s been living there for two years, working downtown and commuting on public transportation where her fellow riders will cheer when she figures out Wordle. She and her husband have made a point to visit a new neighborhood every weekend. Her social media posts frequently show a stunning San Francisco cityscape. Almost every time, someone inevitably comments that the pretty picture doesn’t zoom in enough to see the filth and crime and danger of her adopted hometown.
“I am really radical when it comes to sticking up for San Francisco online, and I do it over and over and over again,” she told me. “There are a few neighborhoods you want to avoid — just like in any big city. But to me, the city is magical. I wake up every morning and think, I live in San Francisco! There’s something so wonderful about that.”
Dru and her husband don’t own a car, so they take public transportation or walk everywhere. They spend weekends exploring new areas, letting themselves stumble upon historic Cottage Row or the smallest park in San Francisco, which offers amazing views of Alcatraz (and battles with another
park for the “smallest park” title). Their favorite place to take visitors is the observation deck in the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park, close to their apartment.
“We tell our friends they are in for a surprise, and you go up an elevator, and there’s this 360-degree view of all of San Francisco,” she said. “And hardly anyone knows about it. It’s just public space.”
We had a similar approach during our two months in the city. We’d head out on foot with a loose idea of a destination. Once, we ended up walking from North Beach a mile or so, down past the Buena Vista, which is famous for introducing Irish coffees to the United States, and where my late uncle once bartended decades ago. We walked past Ghirardelli Square, through a park with Golden Gate Bridge and Fort Mason views, and ended up on the Marina Green. Another day, we walked from Telegraph Hill to Russian Hill, found ourselves by the cable car stop at the top of the crooked part of Lombard Street, then walked downhill past a different park we never had heard of before. It turned out to be Francisco Park, “built on the site of the city’s first reservoir,” and is only a couple years old. There were kids on the swings, visitors sprawled out on the grass and again, incredible Golden Gate Bridge views.
One afternoon, my Newport Beach friends, Danny and Lorna, were visiting and we planned to spend some time together. Lorna had never been a fan of the city, and all the recent doom and gloom reports about the state of San Francisco hadn’t changed her outlook for the better.
“I just never had any fun there,” she said. “Show me your San Francisco so I can see the good things.”
After giving this some thought, I decided to take them on my favorite walk past semi-hidden, private gardens, which I knew Lorna would enjoy. We started at Coit Tower near my apartment, then found the path to the Greenwich steps, one of many San Francisco staircase paths that can be hard to find but worth the effort.
The Greenwich steps take you down nearly 400 steps, some brick, some concrete, all with handrails. In places the foliage is dense; other times, there are views of the bay. In the middle, when you must cross a city street to find the next set of steps, it’s easy to get mixed up. Thankfully, someone spraypainted a sign that says “Steps” along with an arrow, which clearly marks the way.
At the bottom, we strolled across Sansome Street to walk through Levi Plaza, a private park that is open to the public during the day. We walked along the Embarcadero, past a few of the piers, toward the Ferry Building. Then we circled back and made our way to the base of the Filbert steps, a similar path back up to Coit Tower with more amazing views and gardens and sculptures dotted along the uphill path.
We passed plenty of other tourists and sightseers along our walks, and the failed city narrative never seemed to apply. That’s not to say that you couldn’t create an itinerary that took you through struggling areas of town, or where you might be able to find evidence that supports your “San Francisco is a hellscape” viewpoint. We could honestly do that in any city in America, but in San Francisco, it doesn’t take a lot of squinting and denial to have a peaceful, amazing day.
In fact, one of the most objectionable parts of my afternoon with Danny and Lorna, other than a little boy who became sick in the Coit Tower staircase, was a noisy group of motorbike riders on the Embarcadero. This group had been by my apartment on Green Street a few days earlier, revving and roaring and making a racket while they performed wheelies and different tricks on their bikes. Loud and annoying, yes, but at the same time, interesting and a little entertaining in a completely unexpected way.
“That’s why I love it,” my friend Dru said. “It’s so different than anywhere else I’ve ever been.”
de Young Museum: The museum is in Golden Gate Park at 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. The Hamon Observation Tower does not require a ticket for entry and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. famsf.org
Francisco Park: Located at 2445 Hyde St., there are four entrances to the park at Bay Street, Lower Hyde Street, Bruce’s Stairs/Upper Hyde Street Stairs and Larkin Street. It is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. franciscopark.org
Coit Tower: The tower is located at 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd. Hours vary by season, and fees range from $3 to $10 to visit the top. sfrecpark.org
Filbert Steps: Find the steps going down by Coit Tower (there is a small sign) or going up at Filbert and Sansome streets.
Greenwich Steps: Find the steps down by Coit Tower. Going up, the beginning of the stairs are at Battery and Greenwich streets.
Jack Early Park: The park is located at 100 Pfeiffer St., with an entrance on Grant Avenue between Chestnut and Francisco streets. There is a gate that is open from sunrise to sunset, daily.
Golden Boy Pizza: It’s takeout only, so grab a slice and head to nearby Washington Square Park for a picnic. goldenboypizza.com
Trattoria Contadina: Open for dinner only, reservations are suggested at this North Beach restaurant. trattoriacontadina.com
Mario’s Bohemian Cigar Store Café: While Mario’s stopped selling cigars in 1992, you can savor Italian staples like focaccia sandwiches. mariosbohemian.com
Caffe Trieste: Visit the West Coast’s first espresso coffee house located in North Beach for a morning pick me up. caffetrieste.com
Victoria Pastry: Close to Washington Square Park, the bakery has great pastries and coffee with a few outdoor tables. victoriapastrycompany.com
Tony Nik’s Cafe: This iconic cocktail lounge was one of the first bars to open in North Beach after Prohibition. tonyniks.com
Comstock: At the crossroads of North Beach, China Town, the Financial District and Jackson Square, the historic saloon serves classic cocktails with live jazz nightly. comstocksaloon.com
Maggie McGarry's Irish Pub: There’s live music every weekend at this authentic Irish pub in the heart of North Beach. maggiemcgarrys.com
Summertime
James Wolanin
Acrylic & Gloss Varnish on Panel 40 x 40 in
James Wolanin’s paintings transport the viewer to an effervescent, candy-coated world inspired by vintage advertisements, photographs, and the artist’s own personal history. View his work at the JoAnne Artman Gallery in Laguna during the "I Dream in Color: James Wolanin" exhibition from August 1 – September 30, 2024.
JoAnne Artman Gallery
326 N Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 joanneartmangallery.com