Orange Coast magazine - February 2022

T O P D E N T I S T S : 236 of the best in our area

O.C. BUCKET LIST / BOUILLON DELIGHTS

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Bucket List 30+ THE O.C .

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things to do right here

FEBRUARY 2022 $5.95

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N IA S RI N A O : P ILL W IE OU V B R E AT

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The new chapter of healthcare begins here At UCI Health, we don’t just practice medicine, we create it. Now we are writing the next chapter for healthcare in Orange County. With UCI Medical Center—Irvine, UCI Health will bring our patients unparalleled expertise, leading-edge treatments and the finest evidence-based care that only an academic medical system can offer.

The 800,000-square-foot medical campus will be anchored by a state-of-the-art hospital, which will offer 24-hour emergency care and personalized cancer treatments, including hundreds of clinical trials by our NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center. Our world-renowned experts will also deliver exceptional care in other specialties, such as digestive diseases, neurosciences and orthopaedics, all powered by the University of California. We stop at nothing to build a healthier tomorrow.

Learn more at ucihealth.org/irvinehospital

NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

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THE FUTURE IS HOPE

Hang T. Dang, D.O., FACOS, FACS

A 2022 Orange County Physician of “Women need to know that breast Excellence, Hang T. Dang, D.O., FACOS, cancer can be very treatable, and FACS, focuses on the treatment of lifesaving breakthroughs are benign and malignant breast diseases. happening every day,” said Dr. Dang.

She is a fellowship-trained breast “Molecular and genetic testing surgical oncologist with aesthetic is personalizing breast cancer fellowship experience. treatment and making it more effective. A wide portfolio of new Dr. Dang practices at City of Hope drugs can fight cancer better with Newport Beach Fashion Island, where fewer side effects. And women are she is part of a team advancing world- seeing excellent cosmetic results renowned cancer treatment and from their surgery in combination research. She is one of 1,000 with advanced techniques for breast City of Hope physicians, scientists preservation and reconstruction.” and researchers focused on one thing: ending cancer.

City of Hope provides a collaborative and caring multidisciplinary team With leading-edge technology and of breast cancer experts who surgical expertise, City of Hope understand patients’ needs and physicians deliver outstanding backgrounds to provide a wholeoutcomes that are difficult to achieve person approach to treatment. elsewhere. Patients benefit from access to promising new therapies through pioneering research and innovative clinical trials for breast cancer.

TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT ANY OF OUR FOUR ORANGE COUNTY LOCATIONS, CALL: Huntington Beach (714) 252-9415

CityofHope.org/OC

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WE’RE COMING FOR YOU, CANCER

We won’t rest until we’ve defeated cancer, once and for all. City of Hope is advancing world-renowned cancer treatment and research by establishing a National Cancer Institute-designated campus in Orange County. Our 1,000 physicians, scientists and researchers focus on only one thing – ending cancer. We offer nearly 1,000 clinical trials each year and breakthrough treatment options, all delivered by a compassionate team of experts who take your hand and never let go.

CityofHope.org/OC

COH - P-AD - Orange Coast 02-Feb 2022 - Coming for Cancer_FINAL-.indd 1

Edward S. Kim, M.D., M.B.A., Physician-in-Chief, City of Hope Orange County

Nationally recognized advocate for expanding access to lifesaving clinical trials

© 2022 City of Hope

Cancer doesn’t stand a chance. The future is hope, in Orange County.

12/17/21 12:41 PM

FEBRUARY 70

BUCKET LIST O.C.

The pandemic has reorganized our priorities and made us focus on what matters most. Whether you’re looking for simple activities or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, we have plenty of ideas, and they’re all right here at home.

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“Being out in nature, breathing in the fresh ocean air, and looking out over the sea allows me to release the stresses of my life and reconnect to the simple pleasure of just being!”

—CHANDA HALPIN, FOUNDER OF YOGA ON THE BEACH

BUILDING BRIDGES

Businessman Tam Nguyen has always been an advocate for his community.

BY JORDAN POBLETE

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TOP DENTISTS OF O.C. 2022

These 236 dental professionals were chosen by their peers as some of the best in our area. Also: Read about a local dentist and his Instgram habit, and get pro tips for whitening your teeth.

O N T HE COV ER

Crystal Cove Photograph by Sue Branica

10 O RA NGE CO AST • February 2022

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

New Year New Kitchen

Scan the QR code to schedule an appointment with one of our expert showroom consultants.

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FEBRUARY 58

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EDITOR’S LET TER PEOPLE & PL ACES Blooming gardens at Mission San Juan Capistrano

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’HOODS Kick off the Year of the Tiger at the District at Tustin Legacy.

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PERFECT G E TAWAY Pismo Beach off ers a luxurious stay on the Central Coast.

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S TAT S Cypress woman’s “Quarantine Barbie” sets take off.

C U LT U R E P H I L E Meet the siblings of Orange-based Wimberley Bluegrass Band.

O.C . E VENT S Lunar New Year events, jazz concerts, and more happenings this month

12 ORA NGE CO A ST • February 2022

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ST YLE & HOME Handmade jewelry from Huntington Beach’s Moonchylde Collective

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HOT SHOP Valentine’s Day gift s and festive outfits at Brick Market Boutique

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5 QUESTIONS WITH ...

Chef-owner Ross Pangilinan of the Mix Mix group is Michelinhonored yet grounded.

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FINDS Celebrate the Year of the Tiger with these pieces.

THE BREAKDOWN Scarlet beet “ravioli” from Selanne Steak Tavern

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ON THE MARKET A 1.2-acre estate in San Juan Capistrano off ers plenty of romance.

FOOD TRENDS Mexico’s ubiquitous chamoy condiment elevates cocktails.

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SOURCED Visit Layered by Paige, a Costa Mesa home decor pop-up.

MY O.C .

Watching kindness multiply was the perfect birthday gift.

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DINING GUIDE Many of our 200-plus restaurant reviews

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FOOD & DRINK Bouillon’s take on casual French fare

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PERSON OF INTEREST Owner of The Sweet Hand in Ladera Ranch

WEB EXT R A S

Chef Nick Echaore of Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano whips up his tantalizing version of pulled pork adobo. orangecoast.com /cathythomas Best places for Valentine’s Day photos orangecoast.com /valentinesdayphotospots Find Valentine’s Day events in O.C. orangecoast.com /valentinesdayevents

@ORANGECOASTMAG

photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

EXPLORE

Bar Louie NOW Casa Del Sol OPEN Cocina Mexicana J Zhou Lucille’s BBQ Luna Rossa Prego Restaurant RA Sushi Red Robin Thai Bamboo The Winery Restaurant The Yellow Chilli Union Market Utopia Caffe

COMING SOON Baked Dessert Bar Fast Hot Pot Rakkan Ramen Sal’s Pizzeria Yumi Yogurt

TheDistrictTL.com @DistrictTustin

@TheDistrictTustin

EASY ACCESS OFF TUSTIN RANCH ROAD, NEAR BARRANCA IN TUSTIN Photo: Roasted Chicken served with Gnocchi at The Winery Restaurant

Celebrate Love

Valentine’s Day: Monday, February 14th!

FEBRUARY SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS IN THIS ISSUE

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Style Home

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Q&A: Jitendra Ragunath of VERGOLA

48-54 Trends

Wine, Champagne, Chocolates & More

Hi-Time Wine Cellars

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We are open Monday-Saturday from 9am to 7pm and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

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A Healthy Smile

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Antoanela Garbacea, DDS, MSD, FACP, FAAID

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Craig C. Thiede, DDS

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Brian Green, DDS / Green Dental Medicine

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Steven A. Miyamoto, DDS / Fullerton Oral Surgery

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Naz Haque, DDS / Market Place Dentistry

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Directory

107 Super Lawyers

Over 2000 Frames To Satisfy Every Personality On-Site Lab

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Segerstrom Center for the Arts Candlelight Concert

OC Scenes 15

Segerstrom Center for the Arts Candlelight Concert

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Lifetime Smiles of OC Open House Holiday Party

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Friends of CASA Holiday Luncheon

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National Philanthropy Day

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OTACA Tequila’s Bazaar

65-66 OC Whiskey Classic 14 Ora nge C o a st • February 2022

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

47TH ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT CONCERT After a year hiatus, the annual Candlelight Concert returned to Segerstrom Center for the Arts in full glory as 450 guests were transported to Tuscany for the evening. Living Italian statues, topiary and florals, and archways depicting Italian architecture set the scene for the night, which included a stunning performance from opera star Andrea Bocelli. Bocelli delighted the audience when he invited his 9-year-old daughter, Virginia, to sing “Hallelujah” with him and dedicated it to honorary chair Elizabeth Segerstrom.

President Casey Reitz, Chairwoman of the Board Jane Fujishige Yada, and 2021 Candlelight Concert cochairs Britt Meyer and Carol Perry all made remarks to welcome guests. Chef Ross Pangilinan of the Mix Mix group presented the delectable dinner, and chef Tony Esnault of Knife Pleat made an elegant dessert.

Indefatigable attendees danced after dinner to the sounds of the Ron Rubin Orchestra. The event is the largest fundraiser for Segerstrom Center for the Arts and has been a tradition since 1973, before the center was opened.

Photos Courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts

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PA R T I E S

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EVENTS

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OPENINGS

EDITOR’S LETTER

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he past two years have certainly provided lessons for all of us. I’m now trying to make the most of time with my family and favorite people, realizing there’s no reason to wait. I’m less interested in things being perfect in favor of savoring small victories and saying yes more often. And I’ve been relishing what I missed most in Orange County: live performances and special meals at our best restaurants.

It did my soul good to see crowds of theatergoers at Segerstrom Center for the Arts when all the venues had shows on the same day. It’s beyond touching that the artists start by sharing their gratitude for the audience and talk about how happy they are to be back doing what they love. One of the last concerts I attended pre-pandemic was Kandace Springs; I am so excited to see she’s back in O.C. this month (Page 30)!

It’s also been delightful to watch the local restaurant boom. Creative chefs offer elaborate tasting meals, sometimes in surprising places (Page 79). Diners missed the joys of a delicious meal out, and our community seems eager to luxuriate in fine dining again. We’ve seen a steady stream of openings over the past few months—and we will share the best of them with you in our annual Best New Restaurants issue in April.

Many folks missed travel, and I’ve been indulging in that a bit, too. But there are so many wonderful things to do right here at home. We’ve rounded up a whole list of stuff—extravagant, simple, or activities you’ve just never gotten around to (Page 70).

We hope to inspire you to appreciate the bounty of goodies in Orange County all year and cross some items of your own bucket list.

MS. AL AN GIBBONS

E D I T O R-I N- C H I E F

A G I B B O N S @ O R A N G E C O A S T.C O M

M Y F AV O R I T E T H I N G S I N T H I S I S S U E Pismo Beach provides the perfect home base for your trip to the Central Coast.

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16 ORA NGE C O AST • February 2022

Lunar New Year is this month, and there are plenty of fun tiger-themed items available.

PA G E 38

Anything that comes from chef-owner Ross Pangilinan’s kitchens is delicious, and he’s a lovely person, as well.

I adore the message in this My O.C. piece about passing along kindness and seeing what comes back.

PA G E 67

PA G E 62

illustration by M A R T H A N A P I E R

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COMING SOON

The MARKET

PLACE by

endless possibilities

• GOOD TIMES • morongocasinoresort.com

PEOPLE

PLACES

IN PL AIN SIGHT  T H E S C E N E Bright red bougainvillea provides a beautiful pop of color against the once-ringing bells at Mission San Juan Capistrano.  G E T T I N G T H E R E Stroll through the Sacred Garden, located in a small courtyard next to the stone church at the 1770s-era mission.  G E T T H E S H O T “I visited the mission in February 2019 when it was raining on and off. I was struck by the way the (flowers) glowed when the sun came out.”  E X P L O R E R C R E D I T @bethshepherdphotography on Instagram.

33°30'08.3"N 117°39'45.7"W

February 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 21

PEOPLE

PLACES ’ H O O D S

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Kick off the Year of the Tiger with red envelope giveaways and restaurant specials at the District at TUSTIN Legacy. by Robin Jones

Ú G O O D TO KN OW

Celebrate the new year with traditional dim sum at J Zhou.

The District will also host lion dancing, kids crafts, and festive photo backdrops.

J Z H O U O R IE NTA L CU I S IN E A local favorite for dim sum, this restaurant celebrates Lunar New Year with poon choi, a special hot pot dish packed with prawns, abalone, and sea cucumber. Order it along with shu mai and har gow (for prosperity and wealth) and pan-fried noodles with beef or seafood (for longevity).

Enjoy your feast while admiring the dramatic chandeliers and paintings in the lavishly decorated dining room. 2601 PARK AVE., 714-258-8833

S TOWAWAY

CASA DEL SOL

H E RMO S A TAQ U E R I A

A long list of retro cocktails draws the crowds at this tiki bar and restaurant in Union Market.

Under a thatched-roof ceiling, bartenders sling boozy Mai Tais ($12) and Zombies ($13), along with modern updates such as the Coconut Cove: pineapple vodka mixed with coconut water ($12). Look for the special Lunar New Year drink—last year’s, the Plucky Ox, combined rum, bitters, lime and lemon juice, and prickly pear syrup.

The mariachi shows at this new restaurant are epic, and it’s no wonder: The owner, José Hernández, is a celebrated musician who has started two mariachi groups. One of them, the Grammy-nominated Mariachi Sol de México, performs Friday through Sunday, and a smaller ensemble takes the stage the rest of the week. It’s the perfect accompaniment to the traditional Mexican fare: enchiladas ($15), tacos ($23), burritos ($21), and margaritas ($14). 2497

Hand-pressed tortillas made in-house at this new taqueria provide the base for the tacos ($9 to $16) and burritos ($13) filled with citrus and lager-marinated carne asada; shrimp in smoked chile marinade; guajillo-rubbed birria; or achiote-marinated pork shoulder—all of which pair well with the classic margaritas ($8). Grab a seat at the bar for the best view of the dramatic painting of a flamenco dancer by local artist Cody RL Parole.

2493 PARK AVE., 657-208-2088

2493 PARK AVE., 657-660-5361

PARK AVE., 949-418-7088

22 ORA NGE CO AST • February 2022

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

International Award-Winning Author

Connie Spenuzza, MSEd.

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PLACES

P E R F E C T

G E T A W A Y

PI S M O B E AC H

This seaside gem offers a surprisingly luxurious stay on the Central Coast. by Alan Gibbons

24 ORA NGE CO AST • February 2022

M I G R AT I N G M O N A R C H S

To get a glimpse of hundreds of overwintering butterflies, head to the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove. The monarchs seek shelter from cold, wind, and storms in this spot protected by eucalyptus and cypress trees, but the season ends this month. The grove is right next to the beach, just south of the North Beach Campground. Trails abound, and children and grown-ups delight in all the butterflies. A walk on the sand from the center of town provides a beautiful view.

TIME FOR TRANQUILITY

To take advantage of the expansive views of the water and pier, there’s no better place than Vespera Resort. Open for a little more than two years, the property sits right along the boardwalk and offers fire pits and a lawn for overlooking the action along the sand. Complimentary yoga on the beach in the morning makes a great start to the day, and telescopes in every room provide a ABOVE The Pismo Beach Pier provides a great vantage point for sunsets and watching the ocean.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DANIEL GARZA

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he quaint town might elicit notions of tourist kitsch or a place to stretch. But the city is experiencing a revival with luxury hotels on the sand, upscale boutiques and coffee shops, and renovations to the pier area. Of course, the main draw is the long, stunning beach. Artistic signs, novelty airstream trailers, a giant slide to the sand, and the pier itself create a picturesque backdrop for watching surfers or taking a stroll.

Winter is the time to visit as the coastal fog that hangs on all summer gives way to gorgeous sunshine.

R E S O R T P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F V E S P E R A R E S O R T; S PA P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F S Y C A M O R E M I N E R A L S P R I N G S R E S O R T A N D S PA

PEOPLE

T I P

F R O M

A

L O C A L

“Definitely go to Avila Valley Barn for the amazing olallieberry pie. If you can’t make it all the way to Cambria, this is a great option.”

—LISA JAY, ALISO NIGUEL HIGH ALUM WHO NOW WORKS IN HOSPITALIT Y IN PISMO BEACH

R E S O R T P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F V E S P E R A R E S O R T; S PA P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F S Y C A M O R E M I N E R A L S P R I N G S R E S O R T A N D S PA

PHOTOGRAPH BY DANIEL GARZA

LEFT Relaxation is inevitable at Vespera Resort.

RIGHT Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa provides a serene place for a massage or soak.

special opportunity for stargazing at night. There are plenty of places to watch the sun go down, but perhaps none as perfect as the balcony of the ocean-view rooms and suites ($359 and up). With a heated pool and hot tub, helpful and friendly staff on hand, and beach-chic rooms that include indulgent bathrooms with large showers and some deep soaking tubs, the resort ensures that you never want to leave.

C O A S TA L C U I S I N E

Somerset Grill specializes in worldly flavors while never losing sight of the bounty of fresh seafood available at its doorstep. Sit on the covered patio or indoors where you can check out the large bar. A recent special included a just-right spiced curry butternut squash soup with toasted pepitas that was a perfect winter dish.

Warm up with grilled swordfish with roasted carrots and lemon caper relish ($36). For breakfast, go for the diced-fruit parfait ($10),

MAR K YOUR C A LE NDAR Created by Icon Fair from the Noun Project

which features yogurt, coconut, honey, granola, and nuts.

SECLUDED SOAKING

Less than 10 minutes north of Pismo Beach, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa offers hillside hot tubs (about $25 per hour). Relax and rejuvenate in a private tub in the trees for the ultimate decompressor. Schedule a Swedish or deep-tissue massage ($145 and up for 60 minutes), and 30 minutes of soaking is included ahead of the treatment. The spa is mostly outdoors—serene and lush.

Specials are available for visits Monday through Thursday.

S I M P LY D E L I C I O U S

For classic seafood dishes such as steamed clams ($14) or oysters Rockefeller ($18), head to Ada’s Fish House. The relaxed atmosphere lures locals and visitors alike.

California cuisine including grilled artichoke with house-made lemon aioli ($12) and a spinach and

quinoa salad with shrimp ($20) will fill your belly while the local wine list and solid cocktails offer delightful drink options.

DELIGHTFUL ROLLS

A family-owned shop since 1972, Old West Cinnamon Rolls offers decadent handmade treats, baked fresh all day, and coffee just a few blocks off the beach. Stop in for the original cinnamon roll, add frosting or nuts, and delight in savoring every lick of stickiness.

C L I F F T O P S TAY

For a quiet stay above the bustle of town and perched on top of the bluff, try the 52-room Inn at the Cove and its intimate vibe.

The smell of coastal sage abounds, there are trails to the beach, and every room overlooks the ocean from a private patio or balcony ($170 and up). Rooms are airy and bright, and a continental breakfast is complimentary. This is a lovely spot to get away from everything other than waves and trails.

Feb. 26: The SLO Craft Beer Fest celebrates craft brews and music with special food pairings, educational seminars, and more at the Alex Madonna Expo Center in San Luis Obispo ($50 and up). slocraftbeer.com

February 2022 • O R A NGE COAST 25

PEOPLE

PLACES S T A T S

LIFE IN PL ASTIC

This Cypress grandmother went viral after creating her own “Quarantine Barbie” sets. by Sofia Robles

T

onya Ruiz started her Instagram account, Grandma Gets Real, as a way to bond with her granddaughters and post funny photos of her Barbie collection. She was surprised when her homemade parody “Quarantine Barbie” sets, complete with miniature props depicting the realities of staying at home—botched haircuts, baking disasters,

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Quarantine Barbie sets she has made

153,000 Number of Instagram followers she has (and growing fast)

26 O RA NGE CO A ST • February 2022

online shopping, binge watching—gained a massive following. She has since appeared in national publications as well as on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” “I felt I was on ‘Punk’d’ because I kept asking myself if this was a prank,” Ruiz says. “Being on the show introduced me to a wider audience, and knowing I’m reaching people such as Kelly Clarkson was awesome.”

300+

Dolls in her collection

100

Number of plastic shoe boxes she uses to store tiny accessories

24

Props included in her “Pandemic Hero Grocery Worker” Barbie set

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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PEOPLE

PLACES C U L T U R E P H I L E

BLUEGRASS AMBASSADORS

Four close-knit siblings make up the Orange-based Wimberley Bluegrass Band and spread the music of Kentucky to O.C. and beyond. by Valerie Takahama

T

he Wimberleys trace their love of the genre to hearing “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” as kids in 2006 and getting traditional bluegrass instruments for Christmas that year. They debuted as a band two years later and haven’t stopped since, performing about 50 shows a year, including appearances at the farmers market and street fair in Orange and at bluegrass festivals. Here are excerpts from a freewheeling chat with the band—Danielle, 28, who plays mandolin; 26-year-old twins Mark, guitar, and James, banjo; and Michael, 23, fiddle.

What appealed to you about bluegrass music? Ú Michael: I think it was the liveliness of the music. The joyousness piqued our interest back then to hear such happy, lively, energetic music. Ú Mark: I think the spontaneity of the individual musicians’ improv. You don’t hear musicians taking their own solos like that in a lot of genres. We really appreciated that creativity.

Are you self-taught musicians? Ú Michael: Yes, we are. Why, does it sound like it? When we were young, we had some classical violin, classical piano lessons. The bluegrass and bluegrass instruments, we’re all self-taught. Ú Danielle: We get asked all the time how it happened that we grew up in Southern California and yet we love bluegrass music. We grew up listening to it.

Upcoming show dates at wimberleybluegrassband.com

28 ORA NGE C O AST • February 2022

How did the new album, “Where the West Begins,” come together? Ú Michael: With bluegrass being music from Appalachia, from Kentucky, and us being in Southern California, I think we bring a unique perspective.

We’re out West, so to speak, as a bluegrass band. So this album took that and meshed it together. We did songs about the West, we did cowboy songs, we did Texas songs, songs about California, but we did it in the bluegrass style. We had a lot of California songwriters on there, and Bill Monroe had a good Western cowboy song that we put on there. Ú James: We definitely love Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass. We take a lot of inspiration from him.

Can you describe how you write songs? Ú Mark: A lot of old country came from real-life true stories, and for us, the easiest songs to write come from our own experiences. Sometimes you pad a song a little with some fiction, but if it comes from real

experience, it comes across a lot more authentic. That’s been the hallmark of country and bluegrass music since it started.

How do you put together your set list for performances? Ú Michael: At a general fair, we might do “Rocky Top,” but we’ll try to steer clear of it at a bluegrass festival because it’s such a classic that people might get tired of it. There are a couple of songs—like Glen Campbell’s “Gentle on My

Mind,” and a Jim Croce tune that we made bluegrass, “I Got a Name”—that we do most every place because most everyone recognizes those songs, and it’s a little different doing it in a bluegrass style.

Do you have any advice for parents who want their kids to get into music? Ú Michael: Start ’em young.

There’s no such thing as too young to start learning an instrument. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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PEOPLE

PLACES FEB. 5 LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

To mark the Year of the Tiger, the Pacific Symphony joins forces with guzheng player Bei Bei, pianist Fei-Fei, sopranos Yunah Lee and Bich-Van Nguyen, and tenor Nicholas Preston for a program packed with compositions celebrating the advent of spring. Wendy Hua’s Violin Studio at Orange County Music and Dance, the Yaya Dance Academy, the Chinese Dance Company of Southern California, the American Feel Young Chorus, and the Pacific Chorale also perform during the show. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

ond wife, Ruth. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-4898082, caminorealplayhouse.org FEB. 6 VADYM KHOLODENKO

The critically acclaimed classical pianist, who won the 2013 Gold Medal at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, has performed around the world. He’ll perform pieces

by Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Liszt, and Beethoven.

Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 949-553-2422, philharmonicsociety.org OPENS FEB. 9 “WICKED”

Concerts, theater, and cultural celebrations by Robin Jones

FEB. 2 AND 3

FEB. 4 THROUGH 20

“SACRE”

“BLITHE SPIRIT”

Circa, the Australia-based circus troupe, performs to Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” and a new composition by Phillipe Bachman in this show. The group’s powerful acrobatics combine with innovative lighting and set design to create a memorable display of athleticism.

Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

Noël Coward wrote this comedy, which tells the story of Charles Condomine, a socialite and writer who hires a medium to conduct a séance as research for a book he’s writing about the occult. Things start to go haywire when the medium inadvertently summons the ghost of his first wife, Elvira, who does everything she can to sabotage Charles’s marriage to his sec-

30 ORA NGE CO AST • February 2022

FEB. 10 MAVIS STAPLES AND KANDACE SPRINGS

Soul legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Staples performs for this special concert. Raised in gospel music, she’s also a civil rights activist and performed with the family’s band, The Staple Singers. Springs, who last appeared in Orange County in early 2020, is a jazz pianist and vocalist from Nashville, Tennessee, with “a voice that could melt snow,” according to Prince. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org FEB. 10 AND 11 BEI BEI

Part of a monthlong series of programs celebrating Lunar New Year, this two-night engagement features one of the world’s best gu-

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS

DON’T MISS IN FEBRUARY

PHOTOGRAPH BY DOUG GIFFORD

E V E N T S

Long before Dorothy landed in Munchkinland, two girls who seemed like opposites became good friends. One, named Elphaba, became the Wicked Witch of the West; the other, Galinda, became Glinda the Good. This smash hit musical, winner of three Tony Awards, tells their story. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

PEOPLE

PLACES

FEB. 4 DAVE BRUBECK CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Even people who don’t listen to jazz probably know the Dave Brubeck Quartet’s “Take Five,” one of the most influential jazz recordings of all time.

The Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, five-time Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves (at right), and the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, featuring Dave’s sons Chris and Dan, pay tribute to the pianist and composer. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

zheng musicians. Combining classical Chinese music with contemporary Western sounds, she has been credited with introducing the ancient instrument to a new generation and has performed on soundtracks for video games, TV series, and films, including the live-action version of “Mulan.” Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org FEB. 11 AND 12 EDDIE GL AUDE JR., PH.D.

In this Witte Lecture, Glaude, the chair of the African American studies department at Princeton, will discuss race and democracy in America. The author of “Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own,” Glaude also writes regularly for Time magazine and appears often on MSNBC and “Meet the Press.” Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949-548-2411, nbplf.foundation FEB. 11 THROUGH 27

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS

PHOTOGRAPH BY DOUG GIFFORD

“A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER”

Winner of the 2014 Tony Award for Best Musical, this comedy follows Monty Navarro, a member of the aristocratic D’Ysquith family who’s eighth in line to become the Earl of Highhurst. He estimates his chances of assuming the title are little to none, unless he takes matters into his own hands—which he tries to do, all while attempting to woo the woman of his dreams. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-990-7722, curtistheatre.com OPENS FEB. 12 “EVEREST: ASCENT TO GLORY”

Photographs, films, and artifacts from five expeditions to the summit of Mount Everest form the core of this exhibit curated by Wade Davis, author of “Into the Silence: The Great War, Mallory, and the Conquest of Everest.”

Together, they explore the history and changing technologies that made possible the first successful ascent, by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary, in 1953. Bowers Museum,

2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714-567-3600, bowers.org OPENS FEB. 12 “WHAT I LEARNED IN PARIS”

This comedy set in 1973 follows Maynard Jackson, who has just been elected Atlanta’s first Black mayor, and his campaign staff as they navigate politics and romantic entanglements at a decisive moment in the city’s history. Playwright Pearl Cleage—also an essayist, novelist, and poet—is known for her sharp, funny dialogue exploring gender, race, and class. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org FEB. 13 JUDY COLLINS

The celebrated singer-songwriter is best known for her renditions of Stephen Sondheim’s “Send in the Clowns” and Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now,” both of which won Grammy Awards. Over her career, she has released 28 studio albums, four live albums, and four holiday albums, and has recorded everything from folk, country, and rock music to show tunes and standards. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949480-4278, soka.edu FEB. 17 DANCE IMPRESSIONS PRODUCTIONS AND STC FOUNDATION

Commemorating Lunar New Year through classical Chinese dance and drumming, this performance from the Southern California dance studio spotlights traditional Chinese folk dance. A reception following the show

offers the opportunity to meet the dancers and drummers. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org FEB. 17 CALIDORE STRING QUARTET

Violinists Jeffrey Myers and Ryan Meehan, viola player Jeremy Berry, and cellist Estelle Choi formed this chamber ensemble at the Colburn School in Los Angeles in 2010. Since then, they’ve earned critical acclaim for their performances and recordings. They’ll play selections from Mozart, Beethoven, and contemporary American composer Hannah Lash.

Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org FEB. 19 BALLET FOLKLÓRICO FEST

This half-day festival, in its second year, moves to the Musco Center main stage. Part of the center’s Heartbeat of Mexico programming, it features some of the best local folklórico companies of all ages, chosen by Kareli Montoya, founder of Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles.

Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org FEB. 20 NAT GEO LIVE: MARK SYNNOTT— LIFE ON THE VERTICAL

Mark Synnott has traveled to Greenland, Russia, Patagonia, and Nepal, among other places, to find unclimbed rock faces to scale, and he has made first ascents of some of the world’s tallest walls. He also uses his expeditions to search for and gather information February 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 31

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about rare species living in what would otherwise be inaccessible locations. He’ll talk about his adventures while sharing photos and videos in this presentation. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-8544646, thebarclay.org FEB. 24 JOEY DEFRANCESCO

The four-time Grammy nominee is a master of the Hammond B-3 organ. He has worked with jazz greats including Ray Charles, Diana Krall, Miles Davis, George Benson, and others. He hosts a program on Sirius radio’s Real Jazz called “Organized.” Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org FEB. 24 THROUGH 27 “YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND: CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF CAROLE KING AND JAMES TAYLOR”

Songwriter Kirsti Manna—who has written tunes for Blake Shelton—and recording artist Jonathan Birchfield team up for this concert performance of Carole King’s and James Taylor’s best-loved songs. Expect to hear “I Feel the Earth Move,” “Carolina in My Mind,” and “You’ve Got a Friend.” Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

FEB. 25 LINDA EDER: BY MYSELF—THE SONGS OF JUDY GARL AND

Eder was first discovered on “Star Search” in 1988. Since then, she’s starred in “Jekyll & Hyde” on Broadway, released 19 solo albums, and performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Radio City Music Hall. She’ll sing Judy Garland favorites, including “Almost Like Being in Love,” “You Made Me Love You,” and “Over the Rainbow.” Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

wishes for the future, celebrates the beginning of spring and is meant to bring families together. In this event hosted by the Pacific Symphony and South Coast Chinese Cultural Center/Irvine Chinese School, kids and their parents can enjoy music and dance performances from local groups, admire floating lanterns in the concert hall, and participate in Lunar New Year activities. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall and Argyros Plaza, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-5562787, scfta.org FEB. 27 L ANGSTON HUGHES’ “ASK YOUR MAMA: TWELVE MOODS FOR JAZZ”

FEB. 25 SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY WITH PACHO FLORES

This concert, presented by the Philharmonic Society, will feature trumpeter Flores playing the U.S. premiere of Paquito D’Rivera’s “Concerto Venezolano” as well as Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4. Pieces from Andrew Norman and X Neruda are also on the bill. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 949553-2422, philharmonicsociety.org

Hughes’s 12-part jazz poem about the struggle for artistic and social freedom in the 1960s was never performed during the poet’s lifetime.

This multimedia concert takes the masterwork and combines it with videos and images of the work of artists Hughes admired, including muralist Aaron Douglas, painter Jacob Lawrence, and sculptor Richmond Barthé. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-8544646, thebarclay.org

FEB. 26

MO RE O NL INE!

L ANTERN FESTIVAL

This traditional festival, in which people light lanterns to let go of the past and express their

O.C. Scene

orangecoast.com/events

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LIFETIME SMILES OF OC’S OPEN HOUSE HOLIDAY PARTY LifeTime Smiles of OC was established in Santa Ana by Dr. Carl Smetko in 1981 and since then it has been family owned. Led by Dr. Abraham, who has a special interest in full digital smile design and rehab, the office went through renovations and updates, bringing to our community the highest tech and state of the art comprehensive dental and oral facial care.

32 ORA NGE CO A ST • February 2022

The office held an open house holiday party for valued patients.

Expanded services include a Periodontist Dr. Hatem Alassy, kids and cosmetic oriented dentist Dr. Shawn Bruening, as well as facial esthetics and injections Dr. Claire Nawar. LifeTime Smiles of OC sponsors The Church of St. John Chrysostom in San Juan Capistrano in as much events as possible.

Photos Courtesy of LifeTime Smiles of OC

Paella. Tapas. Live latin Music.

Valentine’s Day IN Spain!

Experience Love at First Bite While Enjoying Decadent Menus, Romantic Ambiance and Live Music or Experience Our Dazzling Flamenco Dinner Show Costa Mesa | (949) 688-1555 | 1870 Harbor Blvd.

Long Beach | San Diego | CafeSevilla.com

Follow Us! Tips on the best O.C. dining, shopping, events and more.

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YO U R S T R U LY THE FIND Earrings ($35 to $38), rings ($30 to $35), and necklaces ($38 to $40) from Moonchylde Collective are the perfect gifts this Valentine’s Day. GOOD TO KNOW Each piece in the Huntington Beach-based collection is handmade. WHERE Available locally at Dusk Boutique, Model Citizen, and Peaches Floral Co., as well as online at moonchyldecollective.com

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

February 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 35

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BRICK MARKET BOUTIQUE

Shop for gifts and festive outfits this Valentine’s Day. by Chelsea Raineri

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hanice Chung started an online shop in 2015 that featured neutral-colored women’s apparel and accessories, which she named Brick Market Boutique after Brick Lane Market in London.

She expanded to selling her products at parties she’d host at homes in Anaheim Hills as well as at flea markets. In December 2016, she opened an in-person boutique tucked in the corner of a strip mall in Anaheim. “I have so many regulars, and I’ve made so many friends,” Chung says. “They’re always popping in for last-minute gifts and (outfits for) events.”

Customers can find affordable pieces such as hats, graphic T-shirts, slip dresses, high-rise jeans, and more in mainly neutral colors, with most pieces ranging from $40 to $60. “I look for quality, comfort, and things that won’t be too trendy where they go out of style fast,” Chung says. “I want to make sure customers can get a lot of use out of something, especially for the price.”

This Valentine’s Day, Brick Market Boutique offers gift items such as Voluspa’s rose-scented candles as well as red and pink dresses and tops— one of the few times the store carries clothing in bright colors. For frequent customers, Chung offers a loyalty card; every $50 spent earns points toward a 15 percent discount.

6358 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road Anaheim brickmarketboutique .com

LOVE SPELL

Voluspa candle, $32 36 ORA NGE CO A ST • February 2022

D AT E N I G H T Satin dress, $46

BUTTONED UP High-rise jeans, $50

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

SEASONAL. INSPIRED. CRAFTED.

SEASONAL KITCHEN + BAR

WHERE THE SEASON’S BOUNTY COMES TO LIFE.

Find us at:

18555 Jamboree Rd, Irvine | 949.241.7088 | SolsticeOC.com

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YEAR OF THE TIGER Celebrate your strength with these pieces.

by Chelsea Raineri 6

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Tiger head bracelet, $770, Gucci, South Coast Plaza, 714-557-9600

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Jacket, $3,595; skirt, $995; boots, $1,645, Dolce & Gabbana, South Coast Plaza, 714-668-9142

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Louis Vuitton Men’s tiger pendant necklace, $715, Louis Vuitton, South Coast Plaza, 714-850-9273

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Tiger jacquard sweater, $598, Tory Burch, South Coast Plaza, 714-689-0450

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Kenzo tigerembroidered espadrille flats, $195, Bloomingdale’s, Fashion Island, 949-729-6600

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David Webb Kingdom tiger ring, $8,600, Nordstrom, South Coast Plaza, 714-549-8300

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FRIENDS OF CASA ANNUAL HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Friends of CASA, a membership auxiliary of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Orange County, hosted its annual Holiday Luncheon & Fashion Show at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point.

This year’s Luncheon had a record-breaking net with over $530k that will go directly to supporting CASA’s mission of providing a powerful voice and a meaningful connection for children who have experienced abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Photo Credit: John Watkins Photography

36TH ANNUAL NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY ORANGE COUNTY Orange County’s top philanthropists, business leaders and individuals were honored at the 36th Annual National Philanthropy Day Orange County Awards Luncheon, appropriately themed “Illuminating Hope through Philanthropy.” Attended by 640 guests, the uplifting affair was held at City National Grove of Anaheim.

Mistress of Ceremonies for the heartwarming affair was PBS-So Cal’s Maria Hall-Brown and 2020 Outstanding Philanthropist, Nella Webster O’Grady, was Honorary Chair. Event Co-Chairs were Joan McBride and Elizabeth McKibbin, with Program CoChairs Kathy Ruvolo and Mitch Spann overseeing the entire presentation.

Photo Credit: Tony Lattimore

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ROMANTIC STAYCATION $5.82 million San Juan Capistrano

Cyndi Turk has co-owned Devynn’s Garden for 25 years. Shop bouquets for Valentine’s Day at locations in Huntington Beach and Seal Beach.

WISDOM FROM

a florist

VALENTINE’S DAY AT DEVYNN’S GARDEN …

We do custom wrap bouquets, custom vase arrangements, and romantic gift boxes that include roses, petals, candles, and sometimes Champagne. We try to encourage clients to (be unique).

People associate Valentine’s Day with roses, but there are so many incredible flowers at that time of the year. Roses are beautiful, but it’s nice to put the roses with other beautiful florals.

40 O RA NGE CO AST • February 2022

TIPS FOR CHOOSING A BOUQUET …

It’s so much easier to say to us, “My wife loves pink,” or “She loves lilies, and I want to spend $100.”

That gives us enough parameters to include what she loves and take it from there. That’s where the magic happens. Just give some guidance; it can be that simple. Everything is so original here anyway, but if you give us a little something to trampoline off of, everyone is going to be happy.

FAVORITE PART OF VALENTINE’S DAY …

I love it when you see a gentleman who’s 80 or 90 years old buying his wife flowers and they’ve been together for 60 or 70 years; that just brings it full circle. It’s just romantic. It’s the best holiday.

P R O P E R T Y P H O T O G R A P H S B Y P R E V I E W F I R S T; H E A D S H O T C O U R T E S Y O F D E V Y N N ’ S G A R D E N

 6,200 square feet  5 bedrooms  5 bathrooms This 1.2-acre estate features 150-year-old roof tiles from France.  Of note: Feel the romance in this French provincial home with a lily pond, covered loggia, and stunning gardens.  25622 Paseo De La Paz Arlen Raubach, 949-945-4855

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LAYERED BY PAIGE ELISE Visit the Costa Mesa home decor and furniture pop-up through April. by Chelsea Raineri

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space, where she sells an assortment of vintage furniture and decor such as hand-carved onyx bowls from Mexico, Moroccan doors, and much more. “A lot of my inspiration comes from my travels,” Cogorno says. “I love that (vintage pieces) have their own unique flavor and character.”

aige Cogorno started her interior design company in 2015. While she was on a trip sourcing items for a client in 2019, she decided to purchase a few things to eventually sell in a storefront. In November, she opened her first retail

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S O FA “This is one of my designs. I think white linen is classic and works in a ton of different spaces,” Cogorno says. $7,600

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PILLOWS “The bouclé pillows are custom made, and the other pair is from France. I’m really attracted to mixing materials.” $250 to $380

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42 ORA NGE CO AST • February 2022

VA S E “It’s from China.

You can use it as a vase or by itself as a decorative piece of pottery.” $180

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CUPS “These are handmade by an artisan in Denmark.” $59 each

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TA B L E “It’s an antique and folds as well.” $1,100

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BO OKSHE LF “This is from India and is made of reclaimed wood. It’s a statement piece.” $4,200

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photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

KCET ORIGINAL

NEW SEASON

TUESDAYS 8PM KCET ORIGINAL

NEW SEASON

TUESDAYS 8:30PM

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S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

Industry Expert Q&A: PG. 46

Trends: PGS. 48-54

Photo: Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove | subzerosocal.com February 2022 • Or a nge Coast 45

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INDUSTRY EXPERT Q&A

INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN with Jitendra Ragunath Q Tell us how the product works.

A

The Vergola louver system bridges the gap between a lattice roof and a fixed cover. The louvers are adjustable, and when you rotate them, they interlock and close to form a water-tight roof. The old marketing slogan used to be, ‘It’s not a veranda and not a pergola — it’s a Vergola.’

Q How do you customize to fit each customer’s needs?

A

Each vergola is custom designed and-built. There is no standard size — each one is made for its own particular home, designed for its new owners’ particular purposes, be it energy efficiency, ventilation, shade or rain protection. Similarly, a lot of the structure is pre-fabricated at Vergola’s manufacturing facilities in Gardena CA. This minimizes the amount of work carried out on site reducing installation time to reduce disruption to the customer.

Jitendra Ragunath

Managing Director at VERGOLA®

Q How do you work behind the scenes to make the process seamless for customers?

A It was 1984 when VERGOLA® launched its first product in warm and sunny Australia. Jitendra Ragunath recalls how Vergola offered a unique product that combined the best features of the pergola and the veranda. While one filtered sunlight and the other offered shelter from rain, neither could provide both. The founders of Vergola designed the world’s first adjustable louver roof system with slats that could be opened to filter in sunlight and ventilation, and closed to afford shade and shelter. Thirtysix years later, Vergola is still a singleproduct company, expertly executing each manufacture and installation project from start to finish.

Q What do you enjoy most about what you do?

A

46 Ora nge C oast • February 2022

I’m delighted when I see the joy on people’s faces when the product is in action. Not one customer has come back to say they’re not happy with it. And it is an amazing product, if I may say so myself.

Q Where can customers try Vergola for themselves?

A

13800 Crenshaw Boulevard Hawthorne 90249 855-WHY-VERGOLA (855-949-8374) Vergola.com/us

We obtain all the necessary permits for on the customer’s behalf. It’s a fairly detailed process from design to execution, and most delays are due to the city’s permit approval process, and not anything to do with us. Consequently, customers see very little of this expended effort, so the process for them is stress-free — We provide a service rather than a product.

We encourage visits to our California showroom. The remote-controlled system is easy to navigate; the slats open and close at the push of a button, as well as automatically during and after rainfall. Until you play with it, you won’t know what you’re missing.

LOUVERS OPEN AND CLOSE

OUTDOOR LIVING FOR ALL SEASONS. The award-winning VERGOLA® is the original and best operable louver roof system for residential or commercial application.

For over 35 years VERGOLA® has remained the number one choice for enhancing the use of your outdoor space and adding value to your home or business.

Total control of light, heat, shade and ventilation Weatherproof with automatic sensor to close during rain Custom design and configuration by inhouse specialists Installation by VERGOLA® licensed contractors Engineering and permits all organized

by VERGOLA® Full manufacturer’s warranty

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION IN HOME ESTIMATE. 855-WHY-VERGOLA (855-949-8374) OR 213-995-6877

Vergola_OrangeCoast_BV_FP.indd 1

Visit our purpose-built showroom 13800 Crenshaw Blvd, Hawthorne 90249 vergola.com / vergolausa CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE #1022142

24/6/21 12:28 pm

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Westminster Teak

Maya Collection Highly versatile and scalable, it is ideal for large public spaces such as the open areas by the poolside, loggia, or smaller configurations to fit a terrace or veranda. The pieces can be easily and quickly rearranged to fit the space, function, or event, making it as intimate or as large-scaled as necessary. The pieces can be made into configurations as simple as a love seat or large daybed, to large seating configurations that can be made to accommodate “parties”, large or small. See, touch, and learn more about the Maya Collection at our showroom and distribution center in Anaheim, CA. 844.446.0001 westminsterteak.com

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VERGOLA

The VERGOLA® opening and closing roof system gives you control over your environment. With smart rain sensor technology and double skin aerofoil louvers for better insulation, the VERGOLA® lets you relax or entertain outdoors, rain or shine.

855.949.8374 vergola.com

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Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

Contemporary Design with glass railing. These custom stairs are solid white oak treads and risers with a 1-1/2" square edge detail. Hand Crafted and installed by: Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc. 714.536.6942 gaetanoinc.com

WESTMINSTER TEAK L U X U R Y

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Outdoors ... at home.

Aman Dais Collection

LONG AFTER TRENDS ARE FORGOTTEN

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844.446.0001

www.teakfurniture.com/oc

BUILT TO CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS WITH PREMIUM QUALITY TEAK FROM RENEWABLE PLANTATIONS

Use Promo Code OC2021 for additional 5% savings

VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM IN ANAHEIM, CA

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Builders Surplus Kitchen & Bath Cabinets

So Cal’s Largest Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Warehouse, Over 20,000 Cabinets Assembled & In Stock. 20 Kitchen Styles Assembled & In Stock, 65 Vanity Styles Assembled & In Stock. We can provide assistance with laying out and designing your kitchen and bath, should you need our help.

888.299.1261 BuildersSurplus.Net

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California Closets

A system the whole family can enjoy This classic built-out display case in Cashmere is perfect for showcasing your favorite books, sentimental items, and add some functionality to your empty wall space.

855.236.1358 californiaclosets.com

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PIRCH

Set your space apart with AXOR's MyEdition collection.

Custom plate coverings allow a range of material choices from glass, metal, wood, marble, or leather crowns, offering limitless unique tactile and aesthetic opportunities.

MyEdition defines an age of personalization. See all the Axor bath and kitchen faucet collections on our website and on display in any of our showrooms. brands.pirch.com/axor Costa Mesa – 949.429.0800 Coming soon to Mission Viejo!

Pirch.com

50 Ora nge C oast • February 2022

SO CAL’S

LARGEST CABINET WAREHOUSE

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MILAN SERIES EUROPEAN KITCHEN CABINETS

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65

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See our entire selection online www.BuildersSurplus.Net 49 YEARS IN BUSINESS

BUILDERS SURPLUS KITCHEN & BATH CABINETS

1-888-299-1261 www.BuildersSurplus.Net

1800 East Dyer Rd • Santa Ana, CA 92705 Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 AM – 6PM Closed Sunday & Monday

WHY PAY MORE? SEE IT, BUY IT, TAKE IT HOME TODAY!

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Cantoni

Felix Section Completely configurable, Felix takes the shape you want it to take.

By having movable parts on almost all aspects of this sectional, you can place the backrests, armrests, and even headrests anywhere you wish for practically a new seating every time.

949.585.9191 cantoni.com

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Pacific Shore Stones

Unique kitchen island!

Not only does the kitchen island add efficiency and storage to the space, but it also acts as a hub for gatherings of friends and family. Create a focal point making it a statement piece with its unique flair, using contrasting cabinet and stone selections that enhance its look and feel.

949.536.5055 pacificshorestones.com

52 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

gae tan oi n c . c om 714.536.6942 CUSTOM INSTALLATION & REFINISHING FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1955

Photography credit: Darlene Halaby

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9/3/03

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove

The Wolf Dual Fuel Range combines professional heritage, stunning aesthetic, and innovative performance into one bold cooking package.

It's durable construction and intuitive features ensure every home chef can enjoy guesswork-free cooking and predictably delicious results for decades.

11:35 AM

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Showroom: 657.269.5874 subzerosocal.com/costamesa

TREE CARE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES Professional Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Tree Pruning & Crown Reduction • Sod Removal Palms Skinned, Trimmed & Removed Ivy Topping & Removal • Power Stump Grinding Lot & Hill Clean-ups for Fire Regulation Liability Insurance • Workers Comp. Insurance WE ACCEPT VISA, M/C & AMERICAN EXPRESS

Facsimile: 714-776-0821 website: State License 765846

www.superiortreecare.net

714-502-0226 54 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

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Superior Tree Cares

Sheltering Shade Mature trees add greatly to the beauty of your property, giving it solid character and quiet charm. When it comes to the health and beauty of your trees, call on a company you can trust.

714.502.0226 superiortreecare.net

BLACK JUMBO NATURAL SUPREME SEMIPRECIOUS

Celebrate Your Way

MARCH 6-12 Restaurant Week Masters Preview Party

MARCH 5

For details visit

OCRestaurantWeek.com

FOOD

DRINK

PROFITEROLES THE DISH House-made choux pastry puffs filled with house-made vanilla ice cream, smothered in warm chocolate sauce, and sprinkled with almond slivers THE DETAILS The original French recipe calls for a custard filling, but modern versions often use ice cream, making the dish irresistible. THE PRICE $9 for three THE PL ACE Bouillon TURN THE PAGE for our review

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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BOUILLON

Traditional French fare with fair prices is a winner in Newport Beach. by Gretchen Kurz

H

ow many ways can you say restaurant in French? Bistro, troquet, brasserie, and more for a total of about 20 words I know. Who knew that bouillon was one of them? Not me.

When Bouillon opened in Newport Beach in October, I learned bouillons are Paris-specific dining establishments with deep working-class roots that reach back to 1855. The eateries were once ubiquitous, then scarce, and now are in revival mode. Today the operational formula remains the same—an all-day menu of traditional fare at painless prices, no substitutions, no reservations, and snappy service in a colossal space.

Paris native and serial restaurateur Laurent Vrigand fashioned Bouillon after Paris’ Bouillon Chartier (est. 1896), where he often dined with his grandfather at the Montparnasse location in the 1980s. Bouillon is his personal homage to that time and place—it clearly shares all the appealing attributes, albeit on a smaller scale.

Most recently the home of Juliette and before that Pascal Olhats’ kitchen of legend, the 60-seat space has been brightened with windows and fetching accoutrements Vrigand imports from Paris. There is no host stand up front—after all, no reservations. A sharp-eyed staffer opens the wide glass door, sweeping you in with a welcome and a choice of seating options. Two- and four-top tables dominate, girded by archetypal rattan bistro chairs.

Six stools at a zinc bar beckon solo diners in the mood to chat, as it’s central to staff action.

The menu opens with textbook starters, a nostalgic primer of French dishes first imported for us by Julia Child. Oven-hot escargot radiating fresh garlic and dripping with parsley-green butter seem petite when plucked from their stoneware platter, but hey, they’re 11 bucks.

They get the job done and leave room for more choice items such oeufs mayonnaise: deviled egg halves made with fresh, yolk-heavy mayonnaise (and yes, you’ll taste the difference).

Or steamed leeks doused with gentle balsamic vinaigrette, a warm salad of sorts.

Just $11 buys a mythic salade frisée aux lardons, curly pale greens with smoked bacon nuggets and a freshly poached egg still warm enough to wilt the greens and their light coat of sherry vinegar dressing. Should you need, slices of hyper-fresh baguette can supply

Bouillon 1000 N. Bristol, Newport Beach 949-418-9545 5 BEST DISHES

Soupe à l’oignon

Tian Provençal

Beef bourguignon

Canard à l’orange

Profiteroles PRICE RANGE Starters, $7 to $10 Entrees, $18 to $25 Desserts, $8 to $10 FYI Bouillon and sister Moulin locations sell or use 1,600 fresh baguettes a week.

LEFT Salade frisée aux lardons, filet de daurade pommes vapeur, tian Provençal RIGHT The bright space and bar seating lure diners into Bouillon. photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

February 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 59

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DRINK cleanup. Also from the starving student category comes a beefy soupe à l’oignon that’s revelatory. When Vrigand insisted it was a separate version from what’s served next door at his Moulin, for the same price, I had to test them back-to-back: He’s as honest as he is passionate about Bouillon’s cooking. The broth was more complex, with a rounder mouthfeel, and the cheese was richer, less stringy, and easier to eat. Even the croutons tasted crustier, more brawny.

Entrees read like a French prescription for extra-strength comfort. Coq au vin, blanquette de veau, and, of course, the steak au poivre frites. No wonder the 8-ounce steak is a top seller; it’s deftly grilled to medium-rare with a ramekin of silky green peppercorn sauce riding shotgun, a tidy green salad, and a jumble of hot skinny fries. It’s a square meal on a big round plate sporting Bouillon’s windmill badge.

Soupe à l’oignon

Beef bourguignon is the longsimmered ambrosia our busy lives rarely have time to duplicate. It’s a dreamy stew of lean beef braised in stock and fullbodied red wine until it falls apart, plus mushrooms and onions ladled over al dente pappardelle. Time is also the luxury ingredient in luscious duck confit married with browned onions and fingerlings in a subtle orange glaze. Tian

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Provençal is an earnest nod to vegetarians and the best side dish of the year.

It’s fancy ratatouille in a terrine of slow-baked layers finished with a quick scorch for texture on top. It’s terrific.

Dessert options are select but mighty.

Profiteroles are top-notch and near impossible to quit. If you can or must stray, head straight for the île flottante, the classic island of cool airy meringue in a pool of milky custard. The middling chocolate mousse is out of its league in this company. A canny list of all French wines is the true sleeper find here, at beyond fair prices. This must be a play for all those French-speaking regulars who claimed Moulin as a their watering hole eight years ago when it opened.

We might be centuries behind France when it comes to dining out, but Bouillon is out to catch us up with the concept of righteous French cooking in a convivial setting we can drop in now, later, and, most important, often.

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OPENINGS

OTACA TEQUILA’S DIA DE LOS MUERTOS BAZAAR OTACA Tequila, owned by Dana Point couple Anthony and Nicole Accetta, celebrated its debut in Southern California with a Dia de Los Muertos Bazaar held at Red O Newport Beach.

After years of researching and tasting the world’s finest tequilas and traversing Mexico’s most-treasured agave plantations, the Accettas embarked on a mission to create their own ultrapremium tequila characterized by its brilliant, multi-faceted finish. OTACA is the embodiment of its acronymic slogan ‘Once Tried, Always Craved Agave.’ A live 5-piece banda preformed as stilt walkers, snake charmers, fire dancers, and magicians enchanted guests as they sipped on OTACA Tequila and enjoyed bites from Red O. Photo Credit: Ron Levy Photography

60 ORA NGE C O AST • February 2022

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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DRINK 5

Q U E S T I O N S

W I T H …

ROSS PANGILINAN

The chef-owner of highly acclaimed O.C. restaurants Mix Mix in Santa Ana and Terrace by Mix Mix in Costa Mesa is Michelin-honored yet grounded. by Cathy Thomas WHERE ARE YOU FROM? I was born in Tennessee and am a Tennessee Titans fan.

WHAT’S YOUR DRINK OF CHOICE? An Old-Fashioned, made with good whiskey—such as High West. It’s smooth and not the most expensive.

CAN YOU SHARE A SECRET TALENT? In my teens, I was a semipro skateboarder.

WHAT’S IN YOUR HOME FREEZER? Chicken nuggets, frozen bananas, desserts from Trader Joe’s.

FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN O.C.?

Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar in Costa Mesa where James (chef-owner) just feeds me. I sit, have a beer, and he sends food out.

MO RE O NL INE

Pangilinan makes celery and green apple soup at orangecoast.com /cathy-thomas-friends.

MADE IN ORANGE COUNTY

Garden Grove

When Anaheim resident David Schmunk traveled to South Africa in 2016, he fell in love with the flavors of the region. That spurred him on to create A F R I C A N D R E A M F O O D S , which blends those flavors into distinct hot sauces. Each bottle features photos of African wildlife, with a portion of sales going toward wildlife conservation efforts in the region. $26 for a four-pack.

Free shipping at africadreamfoods.com

62 ORA NGE C O AST • February 2022

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF AFRICAN DREAM FOODS

FOOD

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

FOOD T H E

DRINK

B R E A K D O W N

SCARLET BEET ‘RAVIOLI’

Chef Vince Terusa at Selanne Steak Tavern doesn’t shy away from elaborate dishes beyond steak. “We differentiate ourselves by always doing something more technique driven,” he says, “spinning something to make it ‘chef-ier.’ ”

by Alan Gibbons

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Red colossal beets are roasted for two hours, then sliced, assembled, and stuffed with herb goat cheese for a pasta-free ravioli.

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Raw candy cane-striped beets are shaved thin and accompany roasted, diced golden beets to create a beautifully colored dish.

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Hazelnuts and candied orange zest tie into the orange-hazelnut dressing, which includes hazelnut oil.

The orange zest is cooked in sugar and white balsamic vinegar.

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Beet puree comes from the leftovers of the roasted red beets, which are pureed with white balsamic vinegar for added acidity.

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Ruby grapefruit slices complete the lovely dish.

Selanne Steak Tavern, 1464 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 949-715-9881

I N S T A - H I T

Loco Moco Burger Strong Water in Anaheim

207 likes and counting

@strongwateranaheim

17.8K followers

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

The flavors of the classic Hawaiian dish can be handheld in this delicious burger at one of O.C.’s favorite tiki bars. Grass-fed wagyu beef gets topped with marrow gravy, Spam bacon, fried egg, and a Polynesian spread—all between a toasted Hawaiian bun. $20

February 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 63

DRINK F O O D

T R E N D S

THE JOY OF CHAMOY Mexico’s ubiquitous condiment makes for festive cocktails. by Benjamin Epstein

EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE , a Michelin-listed

destination for regional Mexican cuisine and spirits, has used chamoy in cocktails before, but the new Jaliscoinspired I’m Not Fancy is on another level. A mini slow cooker is filled with Firme Mezcal, guanábana liqueur, chamoy, orange, and lime. Heftier than a garnish and intended to be eaten simultaneously, an orange slice with a large “M” stenciled in chamoy and sal de gusano tops a gigantic ice cube. 301 N. SPURGEON ST., SANTA ANA, 714-338-2446

Most of the half-dozen margaritas at new fast-casual beachside taqueria SUPER PANGA are rimmed with chamoy and Tajín. One showcases prickly pear and chipotle; another, El Corazon, uses passion fruit, blood orange, and pomegranate.

Enjoy them with the white rockfish ceviche, short rib birria taco, or Pangadilla—a stuffed and folded quesadilla.

The boardwalk spot just added indoor dining and an open-air tequila bar.

2110 W. OCEANFRONT, NEWPORT BEACH, 949-561-1700

Two cocktails at PUESTO MEXICAN ARTISAN KITCHEN use mango,

chamoy, and Tajín-salt rims: the aptly named Puesto Perfect Michelada, with Puesto Clara Lager, housemade clamato, and fresh lime; and the Fruit Cart Margarita, with Patrón blanco tequila, pineapple, watermelon, and cucumber. Both go beautifully with bluecorn tacos layered with crispy melted cheese and premium toppings. Check out the new Westin Anaheim Resort location and its octagonal kitchen-view booths. 1040 W. KATELLA AVE., ANAHEIM, 714-294-0362

64 ORA NGE CO AST • February 2022

MUTT’S EASTBLUFF has a large menu; the CoronaRita isn’t on it. But the cocktail—a margarita with a mini bottle of Corona upside-down in a 32-ounce schooner with a chamoy-Tajín rim—is always available, an open secret for fans of parent Mutt Lynch’s. The new Mutt’s is engagingly designed—think eclectic Americana—and family-friendly. Like at its predecessor, which has been open for 45 years, the Christmas lights are on yearround. 2531 EASTBLUFF DRIVE, NEWPORT BEACH, 949-719-0635

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F S U P E R PA N G A

FOOD

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

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PA R T I E S

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EVENTS

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OPENINGS

The Orange Coast Whiskey Classic was back in action at the brand-new Finish Line Auto Club in Costa Mesa. Guests enjoyed a night full of whiskey tastings, crafted cocktails, savory bites, sweet treats, and sounds by DJ Mark Moreno.

Highlights were live grilling by SubZero, Wolf, Cove’s Chef Molly Kruger, cigar rollers, a charity opportunity drawing to benefit the Golden Rule Charity, hydration stations by Mountain Valley Spring Water, and a chance to get their tasting glass engraved by Rosie Chhun. continued on page 66

Visit orangecoast.com for party pictures & more events!

Photos by Ron Levy Photography February 2022 • Or a nge Coast 65

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

Continued from Page 65 WHISKEY BRANDS

WATER

Garrison Brothers Distillery Sagamore Spirit Blinking Owl Distillery Four Rose Bourbon Westward Whiskey Uncle Nearest Stranahan’s Bushmill’s Duke Timeless Spirits Surf City Still Works Highland Park Wyoming Whiskey Teeling Aberfeldy Angel’s Envy Off Hours Bourbon Bardstown Bourbon Rampur Kujira Shinobu CALI Distillery The Glenallachie Kilchoman Boone’s Bourbon Ohishi Whisky Maker’s Mark Hi-Time Wine Cellars Favorites Penderyn Distillery Corsair Distillery M&H Whisky

Mountain Valley Spring Water

Photos by Ron Levy Photography 66 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

FOOD & COCKTAILS Sub-Zero, Wolf, Cove Chato’s Bar & Grill The Jetty Oak Laguna Beach Bosscat Kitchen & Libations Miss Mini Donuts Toast Kitchen & Bakery Tableau Kitchen and Bar Uroko Café The Yellow Chilli Tustin Patch Coffee Hula Girls Shave Ice Porch & Swing Kitchen 1726 Art of Caramel FINISH LINE AUTO CLUB OWNER’S LOUNGE Lox Catering Exec’s Whiskey Club

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PA R T I E S

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EVENTS

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OPENINGS

MY O.C.

The Infinite Power of Love Watching kindness multiply was the perfect birthday gift. by Lauran Lansdon

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magine receiving $60 in the mail. What would your first thought be? A belated birthday gift, or someone paying you back for a long-forgotten loan?

What if the $60 came with instructions? Give the money away, and touch someone’s life. How you do this is entirely up to you. Where does your mind go? Do you know right away how you would spend the money? Or would you do research or wait for an opportunity to present itself?

Months before my 60th birthday, on the heels of a pandemic and in a time of extreme polarization and harsh realities, my soul yearned for meaning, connection, and generosity of spirit. I wanted this milestone birthday to be a celebration of life, but without the dying part. A renewal of hope. A quiet ceremony that honored growth and revelations while respecting the struggles of others. Something that expressed joy and gratitude in the simple things like a walk at Irvine Park or making my neighbors smile with my outdoor painted rock garden. I wanted it to showcase not just the best of me, but what I believed to be the best of all of us—our desire to lift each other up. I was searching for inspiration.

I read an article about a woman who, for her 70th birthday, sent $70 to 70 people with a request to give the money away. By the end of the day, I had drawn up a list of 60 names and drafted the letter. I already had the stationery and stamps; I just needed to send my husband to the bank for the $60 that would be included with each letter.

I DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO expect, but it quickly became apparent that I had touched people.

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!!! This is the coolest EVER!!!!

I am truly honored to be included, and my mind is racing with ideas.

I am overjoyed at what a great idea this is; my wife is going nuts, too.

I didn’t anticipate the impact this would have on those asked to participate. Tami was recently reminded how difficult it was in the early years to make ends meet. “There are so illustration by P E T E R YA N

February 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 67

MY O.C. many things in life that we just have to do, just have to pay for,” she said. “Especially just to get to work and back.” She drove to All Smog Test Only Center on Chapman Avenue hoping to find someone whose test she could pay for. Roger, the 70-year-old man she selected, kept looking around as though he were on “Candid Camera.” She finally convinced him this was real. “He was so happy! I mean really! He gave me a big, long hug and said how much it really made his day. So there you go! You brought joy to two people—myself and Roger.”

PEOPLE WHO HEARD ABOUT THE BIRTHDAY WISH DECIDED TO CONTRIBUTE THEIR OWN MONEY. MANY EXPRESSED AN INTEREST IN THEIR OWN BIRTHDAY CHARIT Y CHALLENGE.

CAN YOU IMAGINE

A WORLD WITHOUT TIGERS? NEITHER CAN WE.

DONATE TO PANTHERA.ORG.

68 ORA NGE CO A ST • February 2022

© STEVE WINTER/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

HELP US SAVE THE LAST 3,200 TIGERS IN THE WILD.

Jen started a conversation with Tim, a homeless man she passed often on her way to work in Minneapolis.

“There was just something about his demeanor and his smile that seemed different than others who seem to be distracted by life or influenced by substances,” she shared. She asked Tim about his story, which he later gave to her in writing. With winter coming, she decided to “put skin in the game” and contribute the balance needed to buy him a much-needed parka. Tim was thrilled. “What started with small talk ended in a hug. I will be reminded of you and your generosity every time I pass by him this winter. I wonder if this is more of a gift for me than you,” she wrote.

My birthday wish struck close to home for a friend whose husband had been dealing with cancer. She had been

meaning to donate money to Enloe Cancer Center in Chico, where her husband received treatment. She hadn’t gotten around to it, though. She wrote that I inspired her to act. “Our donation, including your $60, is in the mail today, and we are truly joyful about this!”

Steve and Rhonda were asked to participate because from our first meeting, over the sale of my father’s car, there was a connection. They were so excited, they told everyone about my birthday wish, including the manager at Panini Kabob Grill in Santa Ana where they used the $60 to buy dinner for a neighborhood family dealing with cancer and an unexpected loss.

Touched by the story, the manager paid for their dessert.

I AM REMINDED OF A STARFISH story, loosely based on Loren C. Eiseley’s essay, “The Star Thrower.” One day a child is walking along a beach. The sun is high, the tide is low, and thousands of starfish are stranded on the sand. The child comes upon a woman gently tossing starfish back into the ocean.

“What are you doing?” the child asks.

“I’m helping to save them,” she replies.

“But there are so many,” the child stammers. “How will you ever make a difference?”

Holding up a starfish she says, “To this one starfish, I made all the difference in the world.”

The starfish story ends with the child helping the woman. Others notice and come to help, and the effort to save them grew from there. When I first heard this story, I thought I was that starfish; I needed someone to find me on the beach and toss me back in the ocean so I could live another day. But I’m not the starfish; I am the woman.

The ripples surprised me. The multitude of ways in which participants made their $60 go further included using personal and company matching funds for charitable donations and fundraisers. People who heard about

MY O.C. the birthday wish decided to contribute their own money. Many expressed an interest in their own birthday charity challenge.

ONE DAY A POST APPEARED ON my neighborhood Facebook page. “Lauran is celebrating her 60th birthday today (I’m not spilling any secrets, she put it out there for the world to know!). Her birthday wish is to have $60 donated to charity, but I want to go for a higher number. So I’m offering 60 packs of baked goods at $6 per bundle of four.

All proceeds will be donated to Power of One Foundation, a nonprofit with a focus on hunger and poverty in Orange County.” Mindy’s $60 paid for half of the ingredients, barely scratching the surface when you think of the time she put into baking and packaging 240 cookies. But because of her efforts and the generosity of my neighbors, she raised $600, with a separate donation made for an additional $120.

Gwen’s project started small. Use $60 to fill six hand-knitted “journey bags” with personal items and take them to a local homeless shelter. Then other knitters in the family got wind of the project. One of them belonged to a knitting group whose members wanted to help. They set a new goal— 60 hand-knitted bags filled with goodies. They’re now considering a new project: journey bags for kids at a San Bernardino family shelter.

A friend of my husband’s, in town for business, treated us to dinner at 1886 Brewery in Orange. He left a $60 tip out of his own pocket so that he could participate, too.

In a way, this feels like the best kind of pyramid scheme—a pyramid of kindness.

After looking at options for his $60, my teenage cousin settled on a cause supporting Afghan refugees. He wrote, “You made me realize how lucky I am to be living this life.”

So, how many lives could you change with $60?

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SO CAN YOU. February 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 69

SEE PAGE 84 FOR YOGA ON THE BEACH

70 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

Bucket List TH E O.C .

Restrictions during the pandemic shifted priorities and shed light on how uncertain life can be. While some might have been inspired to indulge in extravagant experiences, such as renting a yacht or enjoying a special multicourse meal, others are committed to making the most of simple pleasures such as hosting a bonfire or catching an air show.

Regardless of your budget, these ideas will fill up your bucket list.

by ALAN GIBBONS, ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN, BARBARA NEAL VARMA, MICHELLE PAGARAN, JORDAN POBLETE, and CHELSEA RAINERI photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 71

SPLURGE

ACI JET PHOTOGRAPH BY ERIC REED; 21 ROYAL PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DISNEYLAND RESORT

Save up for these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

72 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

The O.C. Bucket List

ACI JET PHOTOGRAPH BY ERIC REED; 21 ROYAL PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DISNEYLAND RESORT

CHARTER A PRIVATE JET

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raveling by jet is a practical luxury that comes with a hefty price tag. Private charter companies like ACI Jet offer aircraft that have various amenities and mileage ranges depending on where you want to go ($5,000 to $8,000 per hour).

John Wayne Airport, 805-548-1345

SEND INSTAGRAM FAMOUS FLOWERS

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hether it’s for that special someone, Mother’s Day, or a birthday, Venus et Fleur’s arrangements won’t disappoint—and they’re expected to last a full year. With a variety of sizes to choose from, including the Round Grandiose DE Venus option with up to 250 roses for $1,999, you’re sure to bring a smile to your loved one’s face.

Costa Mesa, 562-662-2341

VIP DINNER AT DISNEYLAND

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reat yourself to a multicourse, fine-dining meal at Disneyland. 21 Royal offers a chance for guests to dine in a private room above the bustle of the park, complete with butler-served cocktails, a menu featuring premium ingredients served on gold-plated dinnerware, and a dessert course with a private view of the park’s nighttime entertainment ($1,250 per person). Anaheim, 714-300-7749

DRIVE AN EXOTIC CAR

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ooking to impress a date? Or maybe you’ve always wanted to take a luxury car out for a spin. The Exotic Car Collection by Enterprise offers various cars that fit the bill such as Porsche, Tesla, Jaguar, Aston Martin, and Maserati ($168 to $1,200 per day).

Newport Beach, 949-223-0701 February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 73

The O.C. Bucket List

PRIVATE THEATER

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atch the latest film with only your friends and family in your own private theater at The Lot Fashion Island. Ranging from $735 (plus fees) for a 35-seat theater to $1,554 for a 74-seat theater, this experience is unforgettable. Enjoy in-seat dining in the theater’s leather reclining chairs with swivel tables.

Newport Beach, 949-281-0069

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night at Montage Laguna Beach should be on anyone’s bucket list, but to really up the ante, guests can opt for a stay in a Villa Du Soleil. Starting at $9,350 per night, villas are three-bedroom residences that can accommodate up to eight guests. Make use of the full gourmet kitchen or grill outdoors on the roomy private patio with spectacular ocean views.

Laguna Beach, 866-271-6953

INDULGE IN A PRIVATE SUITE

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hether you’re enjoying a game or a sold-out concert at Angel Stadium or Honda Center, you’ll never go wrong when watching from premium suites. Located with perfect views of the events, guests who rent a suite are also treated to a concierge, access to catered food and beverages, a private restroom, and lots of space to spread out for intermission or an inning stretch ($3,000 to $5,000).

Angel Stadium 888-796-4256, ext. 4; Honda Center 714-634-2582 74 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

THEATER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE LOT; VILLA PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH

STAY IN A VILLA

QUOTES

THEATER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE LOT; VILLA PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH

An O.C. Newcomer’s Bucket List I moved to Huntington Beach from Boston in August 2020.

First on (my) list: I definitely want to go get drinks and appetizers at The Beachcomber and watch the sunset. I picked up surfing since moving, so second on my list is to go to the Wedge when it’s breaking and stand and watch—from what I’ve heard it’s prett y wild. My last one is to go to Catalina on the boat from Balboa.

The weather here is so great because it enables you to do so much year-round.

Especially during (stay-athome orders), I never felt like I was trapped in an apartment.

I could always hike, walk, or bike even during the winter months. Each item on my list ties back to that.

— Megan Kerbs, 28

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 75

The O.C. Bucket List

BECOME A PATRON OF THE ARTS

EXPLORE BACK BAY

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ewport Aquatic Center (NAC) is a nonprofit organization and home to teams who do crew rowing, canoeing, paddling, and outrigging. Become a member at the NAC and get access to equipment, boats, lockers, a strength training gym, and certified instructors to help level up your game. Memberships start at $575 a year.

Newport Beach, 949-646-7725 76 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF RMA PHOTOGRAPHY

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ou don’t have to donate thousands to support the performing arts and receive special perks.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts’ Friends of the Center program starts at a $75 gift level, entitling you to access tickets before the public. Each level above that comes with more perks—food and drink vouchers, first looks, an invite to a Broadway Breakfast to meet company members of a Broadway tour, invitations to cast parties, and more—all at or less than a $1,500 gift level. Higher-value donations receive even more benefits.

Costa Mesa, 714-556-2122

QUOTES

SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF RMA PHOTOGRAPHY

Centenarians’ Bucket Lists I had a big party for my 90th. We went to Philippe’s in Los Angeles—a family business that started over a hundred years ago. We took the whole second floor; lots of people came. It was overwhelming. I said no more of that. For my 100th, we’re going to Corona del Mar. Just family; the grandchildren and the great grandchildren. I’ve been very blessed.

— Mary Knoernschild (left), turned 100 early this year I’ve had a very happy life and a wonderful husband.

After he died, I was alone until a gentleman invited me out. I went out with him for about 11 years before he died. Then another gentleman invited me out and we went out for about three years. And the last one, we went out for only a year before he passed, too. If someone invited me out again, of course I’d go—if he had a car and could pack my walker into it.

— Jessie Dolezal (right), 101 February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 77

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF KNIFE & SPORK PR

The O.C. Bucket List

78 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

S TAT S

SPEC IAL DINING Indulge with one-of-a-kind prix fixe dinners by some of the best chefs in the county.

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Ideal number of diners for the Farm Dinners at Rosewood Farms by chef Amy Leburn of Fermentation Farm Using produce from the family crops such as figs, strawberries, heirloom tomatoes, passion fruit, and more, Lebrun plays with textures and combinations to delight the taste buds. The whole event takes place in a gorgeous setting under a canopy of trees that will leave you feeling far away from central O.C. Go to fermfarm.com for information on the next dinner.

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF KNIFE & SPORK PR

Number of weeks the six-course dinners at Knife Pleat were sold out after the South Coast Plaza restaurant earned a Michelin star For an evening of fine dining, the elegant feasts on Fridays are not to be missed. Chef Tony Esnault capitalizes on the best seasonal ingredients and presents a one-of-a-kind meal, full of layers and tastes you might never have known ($245 and up).

Co-owner Yassmin Sarmadi ensures the front of the house is equally stunning with her grace and friendly manner.

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Number of wines poured at a recent winemaker dinner at Fable & Spirit, to accompany a multicourse meal Keep your eyes out for the special winemaker dinners available at Fable & Spirit. Just 12 diners are seated at a long table filled with several dishes ($175 and up). The menu might say four courses, but at a recent event, there were at least 10 items on the table, including the to-die-for Guinness brown bread, kale Caesar salad, heirloom carrots with chimichurri, and beloved cracked-pepper bucatini. The presence of a winemaker or winery representative to off er context and tips makes the evening one to remember.

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 79

FREE

CHERRY BLOSSOM PHOTOGRAPH BY YUKI NAKAMURA

These events and activities won’t cost you a cent.

80 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

The O.C. Bucket List

CHERRY BLOSSOMS

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CHERRY BLOSSOM PHOTOGRAPH BY YUKI NAKAMURA

he annual OC Cherry Blossom Festival returns March 11.

The three-day spring fling is a celebration of Japanese American culture with proceeds helping fund an international student exchange program between Huntington Beach and its sister city, Anjo, Japan. While the cherry blossoms are in bloom at Huntington Beach Central Park, enjoy a vibrant display of Japanese dance, music, arts and crafts, games, food, and drinks.

Huntington Beach

SUNSET AT CRYSTAL COVE

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o matter the time of year, sunset at the water’s edge is something to behold. The folks at Beachcomber Cafe agree and make it a celebration every evening by raising a martini flag. You don’t have to visit the bar to participate, however; bring a picnic to the sand at the historic area of Crystal Cove, walk through the visitors center to learn more about the history of the cottages, and watch the sun lower beyond the horizon. Crystal Cove State Park February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 81

Searching for a Light

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et’s get in the car and just go. We have to see them.” My mom began to object. “Will they be there? Will they even let us on the beach?”

It was April of 2020, a month into the stay-at-home order. My mom, who was temporarily staying with us, had expressed a vague interest in seeing the bioluminescent waves spotted along the coast. I hadn’t left the house in weeks other than to walk the dog and anxiously shop for groceries.

Perhaps it was because of that, or perhaps it was due to a deep-seated desire to give my mom—a woman who had worked too many hours on tired feet and spent much of her retirement caring for my late father—any moment of pleasure I could provide.

Regardless of the reason, taking her to see the neon waves of phytoplankton suddenly seemed like the most important thing in the world. With masks in hand and a singleminded determination on my part, we drove down to Laguna Beach.

The return of the bioluminescent bloom

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82 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

seemed cruelly timed. I had noted its previous appearances and each time put off seeing them in person. With the world closed off, it suddenly felt very “now or never.”

We reached the steps of Thalia Street Beach. As predicted, they were blocked off by caution tape. But we didn’t need to get on the sand. I knew if I could just see the shoreline— there! A faint glow in the distance. Or had I imagined it? My eyes wildly scanned the dark ocean below. Maybe it was just the moonlight reflecting on the water. Maybe I had just seen what I wanted to see.

“It’s OK,” my mom said, sensing my disappointment. “This is nice, too.” We listened to the crashing waves. I made a mental list of all the things I had put off over the years, vowing to cross them off at the earliest opportunity.

“It’s good to be out,” she said, gripping my hand. “And to smell the fresh sea air.”

I attempted to take a deep breath through my mask.

—Astgik Khatchatryan Illustration by Kara Pyle

The O.C. Bucket List

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

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oger’s Gardens decorates its boutique for Halloween and Christmas so elaborately, it’s easy to forget that it’s a store. Shop (or window shop) for Christmas ornaments or spooky decor while taking in the sights. Next month, check out more than 250 types of tomatoes during Tomatomania.

Corona del Mar, 949-640-5800

CORGI BEACH DAY

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elebrate 10 years of corgis playing at the beach April 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Whether you own a corgi or not, head to Tower 22 in Huntington Beach for activities such as a costume contest, limbo contest, photo stations, a corgi kissing booth, and food trucks. There are often hundreds, if not thousands, of corgis in attendance. Huntington Beach

WATCH AN AIR SHOW

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rab a seat outdoors at Huntington Beach’s Pacific City, the downtown area, or even on the beach outside of general admission to get views of the Pacific Airshow—the largest air show in the country. The whole family can watch the planes soaring overhead and performing incredible maneuvers.

Huntington Beach

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 83

CULTURAL PROGRAMMING

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ach month, Bowers Museum hosts Free Family Festivals in its courtyard. For February, the theme is Chinese Lunar New Year, with traditional dance performances, art projects, and face painting. Next month, the museum hosts a Celtic Festival.

Santa Ana, 714-567-3600

84 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

YOGA ON THE BEACH

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xperience a yoga or Pilates class on the beach at 14th Street in Huntington Beach.

Each week, instructors offer donation-based classes for experts, newbies, and those in between. With morning and late afternoon classes, there are plenty of options to stretch.

Start or end your day next to the ocean and the serenity it provides.

Huntington Beach, meetup.com/ yoga-on-the-beach-huntington-beach

THROW A BEACH BONFIRE

A

vailable on a first-come, first-served basis, the fire rings at the various beaches in O.C. are often snapped up by 10 a.m., or earlier, in the high season.

But don’t let that deter you. Getting there early just means spending a whole day at the beach. And gathering around one of the many pits with friends and family as the sun sets is worth the effort. Dana Point, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, San Clemente

CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BOWERS MUSEUM; CONCERT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY; OKTOBERFEST PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OLD WOLRLD

The O.C. Bucket List

CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BOWERS MUSEUM; CONCERT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY; OKTOBERFEST PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OLD WOLRLD

AROUND O.C .

Free Concerts

Volunteering

International Events

Packing House in Anaheim: Bands perform every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

Julianne and George Argyros Plaza in Costa Mesa: Family Concert Series throughout the year O.C. Regional Parks: Concerts at various parks, including Mile Square Regional Park, during the OC Parks Summer Concert Series Outdoor summer concerts: Cities from Seal Beach to San Clemente host additional performances.

Second Harvest Food Bank: Plant, harvest, or distribute food.

Irvine Animal Care Center: Help animals at this no-kill shelter.

Miracles for Kids: Assemble welcome boxes for families of critically ill children.

Hilbert Museum of California: Work as a volunteer docent.

Chance Theater in Anaheim: Support the arts by becoming an usher.

Oktoberfest at Old World in Huntington Beach: Have German beers, large pretzels, sauerkraut, and watch the dachshund races.

Orange International Street Fair: Check out booths from around the world featuring various types of food and drinks to try.

OC Greek Fest in Anaheim: You’ll find delicious food, drinks, and a live band.

The Irvine Global Village Festival: Come for music, kids’ activities, and dozens of international food vendors.

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 85

BUILDING BRIDGES S N A P S H O T

His appearance on CNN during a Stop Asian Hate rally in March of 2021 thrust him into the spotlight. But Advance Beauty College president and Fountain Valley local Tam Nguyen has always been an advocate for his community.

by Jordan Poblete At the height of the Stop Asian Hate movement last spring, Nguyen was unexpectedly interviewed on CNN, taking the moment to read aloud a racist letter that several of his colleagues in the beauty salon industry had received. “My mom and dad came here to give me and my sister a better life,” he said on camera. “And right now, it doesn’t feel that way.”

“I didn’t consider myself as an advocate preCOVID-19, but I did consider myself a bridgebuilder and someone who cares deeply for his communities.” Some of the communities Nguyen represents are tied to the professional roles he holds. He co-owns Advance Beauty College in Garden Grove and Laguna Hills, which he took over from his founder parents in 1999.

He also serves as a board member for the Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce of Orange County, Orange County United Way, Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Board, and the Orange County Transit Authority.

Nguyen’s journey in advocacy began close to home. While attending UC Irvine as an undergrad in the early 1990s, he loved showing off his Vietnamese culture to his college friends. “I often brought many of my UC Irvine friends to make treks with me to the Asian Garden Mall to enjoy the sugar cane drinks, foods, and snacks.

I felt really proud to share a lot of my culture in foods and traditions with my friends that photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

I realize I am comfortable in saying I have a voice, and that it’s important that I advocate for things I deeply believe in.

were not Vietnamese or had not been exposed to Vietnamese culture previously.”

A turning point for Nguyen came shortly after graduating. In 1996, the brother of one of Nguyen’s good friends was murdered in a hate crime while inline skating at Tustin High School. “They murdered him just for being Asian. The hatred ran so deep. I felt pain and hurt. I didn’t know what to do. At that point, I didn’t know how to start a rally. All I could be was a friend and someone (there) for the community. It was a hard point in time, but I know that planted the seed for me to do things in the future so that there would be less hate and more love in the world.”

This past Thanksgiving, Nguyen held a dinner for his neighbors and friends at his home. “In terms of Orange County, they couldn’t be more different politically, religiously, ethnically, yet they came together. I was so honored that my home and the food that my wife cooked created a safe space for human connection between people.”

A father of three, Nguyen takes pride in providing his children with a diverse view of the county. “My children are experiencing Orange County in a very different way than I did.

Because of my professional roles, my children get to meet so many people other than Vietnamese—other Asians, Black people, Hispanics, and white people. We’re being very intentional and broad in terms of the diversity that our children have. My wife and I often say, we grew up Asian-centric and only knowing the Asian values and cultures. How beautiful is it that our children get to truly embrace being American?

Asian is just one part of (that identity).”

February 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 87

TOP DENTISTS OF ORANGE COUNTY 2022

236

DENTA L PROFESSIONA LS

chosen by their peers as some of the best in our area 88 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

ENDODONTICS Richard Angell III Newport Beach 949-640-0020 David C. Beachler Orange 714-637-0976 Daniel J. Boehne Dana Point 949-441-5965 John Buoncristiani Corona del Mar 949-763-3004 Robert J. Cavalieri Newport Beach 949-644-0595 William Y. Chen Fullerton 714-738-6651 Jason Cho Irvine 949-377-0299 Janice Chou Newport Beach 949-706-5080 Denny Y. Fang Irvine 949-751-2089 Fariborz Farsio Huntington Beach 714-847-3513 Daniel Fife Mission Viejo 949-273-5505 Patrick Garrett Garden Grove 714-799-2888 Sam R. Gharib Irvine 949-857-3636 Joseph H. Greiner Anaheim 714-774-8360 Bruce R. Harkins Newport Beach 949-721-4007

Samuel H. Ip Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-4819 Reza Izadi Lake Forest 949-305-0202 Lars Björn Jönsson Laguna Hills 949-581-8890 Arshia Kasravi Irvine 949-748-7374 John Lies Garden Grove 714-799-2888 Sharon Lu Fountain Valley 714-962-3636 Saman Malkami Fullerton 714-871-8422 Chetan K. Mehta Tustin 714-838-1238 Jacob S. Otis Newport Beach 949-644-0595 Jeffrey R. Pene Newport Beach 949-644-0595 Reid Pullen Brea 714-529-9029 Wyatt D. Simons San Clemente 949-498-2115 Douglas Szeto Lake Forest 949-305-0202 Richard C. Wittenauer Newport Beach 949-729-2200

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Rodney D. Ida Tustin 714-547-8494

A. Sami Abdelmalek Irvine 949-453-9800

Lee R. Ingersoll Santa Ana 714-569-1128

Kareem Abraham Santa Ana 657-845-8890

Farzin Allameh Newport Coast 949-706-1711

Naz Haque Tustin 714-505-0123

Audrey Andrade Garden Grove 714-893-7571

Chris Hatae Fullerton 714-870-0356

Michael Ayzin Costa Mesa 949-239-0020

Leland S. Hong Fullerton 714-525-8344

Carly Barrett Garden Grove 714-893-7571

Kelli Junker Newport Beach 949-640-2970

Susan A. Bollinger Newport Beach 949-759-7007

Joyce Kahng Costa Mesa 949-642-0608

Brett Brazeal Corona del Mar 949-673-6443

Alex Kalmanovich Laguna Beach 949-393-8005

George Brazeal Corona del Mar 949-673-6443

Tahir Khan Huntington Beach 714-369-5267

Keith W. Cowhey Seal Beach 562-431-2929

Roy Kim Foothill Ranch 949-830-2003

Vanessa Cruz Mission Viejo 949-458-2088

Brian A. Lassiter Orange 714-997-2735

William R. Dapper San Clemente 949-492-1984

Ursula Levine Irvine 949-727-9600

Nicholas C. Davis Newport Beach 949-644-9211

Jenny Liang Mission Viejo 949-379-8095

Dimple Desai Newport Beach 949-647-4227

George Maddox Newport Beach 949-548-5029

Jennifer Eli Lake Forest 949-916-9670

Marcos Magar Huntington Beach 714-968-4907

Jeff Flores Mission Viejo 949-682-7378

Shery Mansouri Irvine 949-748-7373

Kimberly Johnson Genc Newport Beach 949-640-0300

Mark Nguyen Costa Mesa 714-422-0596

Dimitri (Jim) Grammas Orange 714-283-9188 Brian Green Newport Beach 949-706-0777 Manreet P. Grewal Costa Mesa 714-545-0429

Kaveh Niknia Newport Beach 949-650-6111 Joseph Passamano Irvine 949-572-7708 Bennie V. Pham Fountain Valley 714-965-5255

TOP DENTISTS of O.C.

2022 Scott L. Rice Irvine 949-551-5902

Michael Yang Tustin 714-547-9194

Jack Ringer Anaheim 714-974-0313

Sean H. Yu Irvine 949-552-5500

Jeffrey C. Robertson Irvine 714-838-7272 Dana Rockey Newport Beach 949-642-4632 Jeffrey C. Sanacore Costa Mesa 714-825-0025 Eugene J. Schmidt Fountain Valley 714-963-8934 Cherilyn G. Sheets Newport Beach 949-760-6288 Ronald Shimoide Anaheim 714-635-8653 Peter T. Smrecek Jr. Newport Beach 949-303-1309 Andrew W. Spath Corona del Mar 949-528-4895 Max Swancutt Newport Beach 949-646-1120 Gregory Telson Tustin 714-544-2000 Kenneth Tjon Laguna Niguel 949-831-1402 Quan Tran Irvine 949-559-1814 J. Foster Weems Newport Beach 949-642-7998 Alison Wight Lake Forest 949-770-2077

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY Junil Ahn Aliso Viejo 949-619-8673 Simona C. Arcan Huntington Beach 714-897-3543 Eric Baker Dana Point 949-979-6309 Edward Balasanian Mission Viejo 949-586-7000 Tim Betita Dana Point 949-979-6309 Austin Burnett Costa Mesa 714-422-0596 Jeffrey M. Caputo Mission Viejo 949-586-7000 Adam T. Clark Aliso Viejo 949-202-4420 David R. Cummings Mission Viejo 949-586-7000 Farzin Farshidi Tustin 714-838-4141 Sharo Fatehi Laguna Niguel 949-472-3737

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 89

TOP DENTISTS of O.C.

2022 Sanford L. Ratner Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Hassan Michael Haidar Irvine 949-424-5137

Nader K. Salib Mission Viejo 949-364-0250

David Hochwald Huntington Beach 714-766-6560

Beau McKenzie Soares Anaheim 714-974-5906

Austin D. Hoover Santa Ana 714-835-8873

Jason Straw Irvine 949-727-7000

Daniel Hsu Irvine 949-679-3470

David R. Telles Huntington Beach 714-766-6560

Vivian Jui Irvine 949-727-4633

Craig C. Thiede Tustin 714-519-2801

Eric Kim Irvine 949-453-9797

Lisa N. Tran Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Ryan Kriwanek Newport Beach 949-760-1661

Suzin Um Foothill Ranch 949-203-3177

Young H. Lee Los Alamitos 562-598-8604

L. Stephen Vaughan Foothill Ranch 949-297-8880

Richard A. Mandel Santa Ana 714-835-8873 Michael W. Marshall Huntington Beach 714-766-6560 Thomas Michaelis Newport Beach 949-760-1661 Steven A. Miyamoto Fullerton 714-525-1178 Jeffrey Nguyen Irvine 949-679-3470 William F. Owen III Orange 714-744-8080

Robert T. Wheeler Lake Forest 949-859-3822 Monty C. Wilson Santa Ana 714-835-7771 Randolph S. Young Yorba Linda 714-961-0907

ORTHODONTICS Dean Azzeh Huntington Beach 714-975-9368 Hal Barkate Newport Beach 949-722-9010

90 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

SIDE GIG Nicholas C. Davis’ artistry isn’t limited to his work as a cosmetic and reconstructive dentist in Newport Beach. He is also an award-winning photographer. by Anastacia Grenda How long have you been a photographer?

I’ve always loved art and photography. In college, I took photography courses to understand the intricacies of the art. We also learned to develop film and made our own prints.

What are the correlations between photography and dentistry?

One of the classes I took was photojournalism layouts.

This taught me to see how the photos and text needed to be structured on the page to draw the reader into the article. Seeing how all the parts worked together gave me a greater understanding of composition and also a keener view of how individual teeth play together to create a beautiful smile. In creating a smile design for patients, you must see the whole, the parts, and the details, in that specific sequence, which is the same in photography. You need an artistic, analytical eye that can see the small things, which can make a big difference.

What are your favorite subjects?

I love capturing images of people, landscapes, and the unusual, like my photo of Portofino buildings as seen in the reflection on the water. One of my favorite locations to shoot is Europe because it is so rich in history.

See more of his photos at smilesbydavis.com; click on “Meet Dr. Davis.”

PHOTO G R A PH BY AUDRE Y FRE T Z

Bao-Thy N. Grant Orange 714-771-7677

Douglas D. Baum Tustin 714-544-8030 James D. Bryan Mission Viejo 949-364-6633 Chi H. Bui Fountain Valley 714-962-8880 Christopher Chau Brea 714-255-8338 Debra Cook Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-7820 John DiGiovanni Newport Beach 949-640-0202

TIPS FOR WHITENING

PHOTO G R A PH BY AUDRE Y FRE T Z

Who wouldn’t want a gleaming smile? Santa Anabased dentist Briana Chavez shares three steps to whiter, brighter teeth. by Anastacia Grenda

Glenn P. Frial Laguna Niguel 949-276-2105 Bahar C. Ghafouri Irvine 949-786-7800 Andrew T. Harner Huntington Beach 714-842-9933 Cynthia Huang San Juan Capistrano 949-661-3380

1. Get an in-office treatment.

“It takes approximately one hour and consists of four 15-minute sessions with a high-concentrate whitening gel. Some in-office treatments also use an LED light to activate the gel, and patients can see their teeth get four to five shades lighter in one sitting.”

Sage M. Humphries Orange 714-997-5961

2. Perform at-home maintenance.

“Over-the-counter white strips work well but lack the precise fit of a customized tray. With these trays you can use a variety of whitening gels based on your sensitivity levels. At-home treatments on their own take longer than an in-office treatment to attain the desired results, but they do work if you wear the trays consistently as directed.”

Hedi Kermani Newport Beach 949-640-5050

3. Take care of your teeth daily.

“Stains happen, but it helps if you do your best to avoid dark liquids such as red wine, coffee, or tea; if you do drink them, it’s best to use a straw. Plaque also can accumulate stains, so brush twice a day and floss daily. Finally, you have to be careful not to use whitening toothpaste every day because it is abrasive on the teeth and makes them more sensitive. I recommend using it no more than two to three times per week.”

Jared Jacobsen Anaheim Hills 714-637-6700

Enoch Kim Irvine 949-472-9155 Samuel S. Lee Irvine 949-262-9567 Yvonne Lee Irvine 949-786-0800 Brian Luong Santa Ana 657-231-4104 Michael S. Lyons Placentia 714-993-3500

Matthew MacGinnis Fullerton 714-253-5333 Nooshin Majd Fullerton 714-871-8445 Lauren Manfred Fountain Valley 714-963-8931 Evelyn Y. Maruko Anaheim Hills 714-685-3890 Jennifer Messenger Huntington Beach 714-500-7147 Shawn L. Miller Orange 714-639-1061 Howard M. Nakamura Trabuco Canyon 949-858-4626 Douglas Nguyen Westminster 714-839-9800 Philip Matthew Nisco Fountain Valley 714-979-1400 Shannon Hilgers Nissen Mission Viejo 949-830-4101 Vicki E. Okamoto Costa Mesa 714-546-5170 Taylor M. Olsen San Juan Capistrano 949-542-7799 James Passamano Irvine 949-552-5542 Robert Passamano Irvine 949-552-5542 David Chinh Pham Westminster 714-775-2227 Patrice Punim Huntington Beach 714-842-4148 Mark Rashidi Mission Viejo 949-770-8011

February 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 91

TOP DENTISTS of O.C.

2022

Brian J. Saunders Yorba Linda 714-996-2200

Robert C. Hirst Mission Viejo 949-482-6089

Peter A. Russo Huntington Beach 714-842-2515

Mark A. George Orange 714-953-1000

Amit A. Shah Huntington Beach 714-698-9950

Patrick L. Huston Tustin 714-730-7877

Ajay B. Setya Mission Viejo 949-482-6089

David L. Guichet Orange 714-771-7555

Eddie Surger Newport Beach 949-640-0501

Kian Kar Mission Viejo 949-899-6316

Gregory Guichet Orange 714-771-7555

Maggie Trinh Irvine 949-653-2828

Luis Kim Newport Beach 949-644-0680

Stephen Shepherd Tustin 714-544-2220

Mandi Lynn Wilson San Juan Capistrano 949-661-3380

Kevin K. Lee Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-1150

Thomas P. Rose Fountain Valley 714-964-0021

John A. Guijon Huntington Beach 714-847-2566

Simon Shung Irvine 949-264-3314

Geoffrey Hersch Newport Beach 949-644-0611

Noland D. Soo Huntington Beach 714-842-7775

Brian Hong Fullerton 714-992-5437

Heidi Starnes Newport Beach 949-720-8145

Phyllis K. Kawada La Habra 562-690-3750

Mario Tai Irvine 949-892-6888

Clara Lee Irvine 949-786-0800

Richard Ting Rancho Santa Margarita 949-459-2882

Dora Lee Los Alamitos 562-280-7289

PERIODONTICS

Jacob Lee San Clemente 949-361-2838

Akemi Arzouman Orange 714-744-9100

Kathleen S. Lim Tustin 714-838-9120

Michael J. Arzouman Orange 714-744-9100

Sophia Updike Irvine 949-870-9713 Steven R. Wynn Newport Beach 949-642-2626 Jim Zahrowski Tustin 714-544-5345

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Leslie Butler Fullerton 714-680-9500 Anna Chand Irvine 949-786-0800 Eduardo Correa Orange 714-538-5582 Nasem M. Dunlop Foothill Ranch 949-668-0686 Bozhena Fisher Newport Beach 949-640-0501

Christian C. Lopez Newport Beach 949-777-5902 Oariona Lowe Huntington Beach 714-841-2319 Laura McCormack Irvine 949-252-9950 Jeanne Nguyen Rancho Santa Margarita 949-858-5150

Shaul Yehezkel Irvine 949-559-0674

Vanessa Bikhazi Newport Beach 949-229-7744 Steven J. Bounds Irvine 949-857-1053 Justin Braga Huntington Beach 714-587-9094 Nicholas Caplanis Mission Viejo 949-899-6316

David H. Okawachi Anaheim 714-635-1170

John U. Choi Fullerton 714-449-8650

Lydia E. Park Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Donald S. Clem III Fullerton 714-441-0436

Mary Regina Pham Placentia 714-528-8252

Mickel Gerges San Juan Capistrano 949-240-2030

Geraldine Ruiz Orange 714-497-2747

Rebecca Hart Tustin 714-544-2220

92 O R A N G E C O A S T • February 2022

Nelson T. Yen Fullerton 714-441-0436 John S. Yun Anaheim 714-502-6990

Iman Madi Mission Viejo 949-899-6316 Jeffrey J. McCullough Los Alamitos 714-484-8700 Marlene A. Miller Tustin 714-544-5337 Richard K. Parris Orange 714-673-1600 Mark J. Redd Laguna Woods 949-581-6641

Daniel Kantarovich Orange 714-953-1000 ext. 2 Nelson Lowe Santa Ana 714-550-7474

PROSTHODONTICS

Gianmarco O'Brien Orange 714-953-1000

Stephen G. Alfano Newport Beach 949-673-7820

Kent T. Ochiai Tustin 714-542-9606

David W. Eggleston Newport Beach 949-640-5680 Antoanela Garbacea Laguna Hills 949-951-7988

Jacinthe M. Paquette Newport Beach 949-760-6288 Robert L. Simon Fullerton 714-525-5200 Peter S. Wöhrle Newport Beach 949-720-8072

To help you find top dental professionals, Orange Coast used a professional marketing company, PRS, to identify the Top Dentists in Orange County. It surveyed practitioners in general and pediatric, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and endodontics, asking them to reveal the best dental professionals in this area.

These Top Dentists have been scrutinized for the legitimacy of their licenses as well as their status with the Dental Board of California. The professionals listed herein were selected by their peers in a survey conducted by Professional Research Services Company of Troy, Michigan. Professionals may be screened and selected through the verification of licensing and review of any infractions through various applicable boards, agencies, and rating services. For further information, visit prscom.com or email PRS at spinkhasova@hour-media.com.

S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

2022

TOP DENTIST

A HEALTHY

SMILE ORANGE COUNTY’S LEADING DENTAL PROFESSIONALS

February 2022 • Or a nge Coast 93

A HEALTHY SMILE

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

ANTOANELA GARBACEA,

DDS, MSD, FACP, FAAID

Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry of Laguna Hills As a surgical prosthodontist, Dr. Antoanela Garbacea’s expertise includes treatment of complex dental concerns, from single tooth replacement to full mouth rehabilitation and complete smile makeovers. An expert in her field, Dr. Garbacea performs prosthetically driven surgical procedures such as placement of dental implants, maxillary sinus lift and augmentation, guided bone regeneration, extractions and site preservation, pre-prosthetic surgery, and tissue grafts.

When you choose Dr. Garbacea as your dental provider, you can feel confident you will receive the highest standard of care. A double boardcertified Prosthodontist and Implantologist, Dr. Garbacea provides her patients with the most advanced treatment options and state-of-the-art technology for healthy, beautiful smiles.

2022

TOP DENTIST

Education and Training • Dual Major Residency Program in Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda CA • MSD (Master of Science in Dentistry), Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA

• DDS, University of Medicine and Pharmacy School of Dentistry, Romania Memberships • Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics

“Our state-of-the-art dental equipment and in-house laboratory digital technology allow us to provide our patients with the best knowledge and techniques in planning, designing, fabricating, and performing dental treatments, from both an esthetic and functional perspective,” she explains. “We are a dedicated team with a staff of four board-certified prosthodontists, each with unique expertise in fixed and removable prosthodontics, maxillofacial prosthodontics, and implant dentistry.”

Ever committed to patient-centered care, Dr. Garbacea is especially energized by tackling high-complexity dental cases and providing patients with exceptional results.

“I find it rewarding when I treat difficult patient situations after general dentistry has failed to produce the desired outcome,” says Dr. Garbacea. “I love combining science, art, technology, expertise, and training to exceed my patients’ expectations and ultimately improve their quality of life.”

• Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry • Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists

• Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry

• Member American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics; Member American and California Dental Associations

• Assistant Professor, Advanced Education Program in Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 94 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

25261 Paseo de Valencia, Suite 2 Laguna Hills, CA 92637 949-951-7988 drgarbacea.com

S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

A HEALTHY SMILE

2022

TOP DENTIST

CRAIG C. THIEDE, DDS SoCal Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Dr. Craig Thiede has had the privilege of serving the Orange County area for almost thirty years. Dr. Thiede’s experience and expertise has given him a reputation as a premiere oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Southern California. SoCal Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a full office and hospitalbased practice. Surgery in the office encompasses removal of failing teeth, wisdom teeth, pathology as well as implants. Dr. Thiede places over 600 implants a year. In the hospital, Dr. Thiede treats facial trauma, performs orthognathic surgery, cleft palate and facial reconstruction.

Born in Barstow, Dr. Thiede’s early years were spent in Yermo, California.

His pre-teen and teenage years were spent in Hacienda Heights, California.

It was during these years that Dr. Thiede decided that he would like to have a career in dentistry. He did his undergraduate work at The University

of Southern California and then moved to New York to attend New York University, College of Dentistry. While in dental school Dr. Thiede decided to further his education and become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

After graduation, Dr. Thiede continued with his oral and maxillofacial surgery training at Woodhull Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York.

In 1993, Dr. Thiede returned home to Orange County and started his practice in the city of Tustin. Dr. Thiede believes first and foremost in doing the right treatment for the right reasons, period. He believes his patients would want to be treated as if they were family members. Dr. Thiede believes that it is his compassion and drive to provide the best possible treatment for his patients in a comfortable and safe environment that has given him his excellent reputation and allowed SoCal to expand. Because SoCal has

continued to grow, Dr. Thiede has recently built a new state of the art surgical center. By bringing in a new oral surgeon, Dr. Naman Desai, SoCal Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has been able to serve more patients in the Southern California area.

Dr. Thiede and the SoCal Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team would love to assist you with your oral surgical needs. If you would like more information, you may visit www. socaloralsurgery.com or follow us on Facebook.

13522 Newport Avenue, Suite 109 Tustin, CA 92780 714-730-6767 socaloralsurgery.com February 2022 • Or a nge Coast 95

2022

TOP DENTIST

STEVEN A. MIYAMOTO, DDS Fullerton Oral Surgery

Oral and MaxillofacialSurgeon Dr. Steven A. Miyamoto specializes in using growth factors and stem cells to expedite healing after surgery.

His practice includes pinhole surgery for gingival recession, wisdom teeth removal, diagnosing and treating facial pain, facial injuries and Osteonecrosis, as well as dental implant and bone grafting procedures. He completed his residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey after graduating from UCLA Dental School. Dr. Miyamoto teaches continuing education classes, and serves as general anesthesia inspector for the California Dental Board along with volunteering at several other professional committee boards.

113 West Amerige Avenue Fullerton, CA 92832 714-525-1178 fullertonoralsurgery.com 96 Ora nge C oast • February 2022

S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT

A HEALTHY SMILE

2022

TOP DENTIST

NAZ HAQUE, DDS Market Place Dentistry

At Market Place Dentistry, we have transformed and strengthened our safety and infection control protocols to meet the challenges of these times. Health and wellbeing can never be underestimated again. We are proud to announce that we will be offering COVID-19 vaccinations at our office and through a mobile vaccination program to help flatten the curve and help our community return to their lives. We continue to invest in technology like Laser Dentistry, Intraoral Cameras, iTero Scanner, Digital X-rays, Dental Implants, Custom “One Visit” crowns, and our most recent addition of a 3-D Cone Beam CT imaging system.

This technology will help create an Implant Dentistry program that offers our patients endless options for teeth replacement. Combined with our sleep dentistry program, we can offer advanced treatment while you sleep. “Our ultimate goal is to keep our patients healthy and smiling.”

We have been honored to serve Orange County over the past decade, but especially through the challenges of the past year. We are grateful for the relationships we have built with our community of smiles and their support.

HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS • St. Joseph Hospital • Corona Regional Medical Center • La Veta Surgery Center SERVICES • Laser Dentistry • One Visit Crowns • Porcelain Veneers • Invisalign • Implant Supported Bridge • Implants • Non Surgical Root Canal Therapy • Periodontal Therapy • Sports Dentistry • TMJ Treatment

MEMBERSHIPS • Hospital Dentistry Member • American Dental Association • California Dental Association • Orange County Dental Society • Special Care Dentistry Association • International Congress of Oral Implantologists • American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry 2925 El Camino Real Tustin, CA 92782 714-505-0123 mympd.net

RESOURCE GUIDE

GENERAL DENTISTRY

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL

PROSTHODONTICS

• Green Dental Medicine

• Fullerton Oral Surgery

• Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry of Laguna Hills

280 Newport Center Drive, Suite 230 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-706-0777 greendentalmedicine.com

• Market Place Dentistry 2925 El Camino Real Tustin, CA 92782 714-505-0123 mympd.net

113 West Amerige Avenue Fullerton, CA 92832 714-525-1178 fullertonoralsurgery.com

• SoCal Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

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DINING GUIDE

DINING GUIDE ORANGE COUNT Y’S DEFINITIVE SOURCE F O R R E S TAU R A N T N E W S & M I N I R E V I E W S P R I C I N G $$$ $50 and up $$ Less than $50 $ Mostly less than $25 Denotes Critic’s Choice restaurant

ANAHEIM BLUSKY BAR Gawk at the view from the 12-story rooftop digs, but know that BluSky Bar’s Basque cuisine is what really makes this hotel restaurant Anaheim’s most interesting newcomer. Executive chef Edgar Beas is fresh off stints at Michelin-starred kitchens, applying mastery to a tight menu of Spanish dishes. Look for Iberico pork items, indulgent salt cod, and lobster paella. Late night, the place thumps with club action. Radisson Blu, 1601 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-4091458. Dinner only $$ NAPA ROSE Wine country thrives at the Disneyland Resort by way of this classy dinner house— no park admission required. Star chef Andrew Sutton leads his crew in an exhibition kitchen, turning out imaginative, highly seasonal New American fare.

The room mixes rustic with refined, and the notably wine-savvy waitstaff, many qualified as sommeliers, deftly tailors unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$ POPPY & SEED Chef-owner Michael Reed applies his versatile chops to a spirited, seasonal dinner menu of share plates and thoughtful proteins. Clever variations on of-the-moment produce are high points, as are premium steaks and duck dishes. The one-of-a-kind greenhouse garden setting is a calming contrast to neighbor Anaheim Packing House. Weekend brunch.

Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$ PUESTO Part of a swanky new Westin resort, the latest site of this high-flying taqueria is perhaps the most dramatic. Kinetic lighting, mobile bar shelves, and a tequila temple wall engage diners as they down showy drinks and novel taco-centric fare. Handmade blue corn tortillas and cheesy Oaxacan fri-

cos lend tacos a signature difference. Ask about the monthly taco special. 1040 W. Katella Ave., 714-2940362. $$ See Huntington Beach and Irvine locations.

THE RANCH RESTAURANT & SALOON Oozing top-notch ambition, The Ranch packs some big guns—executive chef Michael Rossi and his brother David, pastry chef. The large venue also includes an upscale saloon and dance hall, sited in the six-story headquarters of Extron Electronics. The whopping (mostly) seasonal American fare is a mashup of down-home and uptown.

1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$ TRUE SEASONS ORGANIC KITCHEN This sleek storefront by Saifon Plewtong adds wraps, bowls, smoothies, and desserts to a menu that once focused solely on hot pots. Still, the spotlight is on organic, GMO-free local produce and all-natural proteins. Do try the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice for a refresher like no other in these parts. 5675 E. La Palma Ave., 714-462-9223. Beer and wine. $$ URBANA This colorful tenant at the Anaheim Packing House brings vibrancy and a cool cantina attitude to a food hall that really needed a good taco and mezcal cocktail. Executive chef Ernie Alvarado’s short menu of savvy street food changes often, and you can’t go wrong with his daily specials. Cozy surroundings offer a choice of ambience—festive or sultry. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-502-0255. $$

ANAHEIM HILLS EL CHOLO A spiffy suburban outpost of the combo-plate chain that started in L.A. in 1923. Many dishes are listed with their year of origin. One of the best dates from the birth of the restaurant: the Sonora-style enchilada topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 8200 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-769-6269. See Corona del Mar and La Habra locations. $$

REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK Popular with the locals, this dapper haunt oozes bonhomie thanks to a solid team led by industry vet Scott McIntosh, whose feel-good American classics are consistently executed by a tight kitchen. Service is sharp. Look for a homey meatloaf, laudable fried chicken with yummy mashers and fresh biscuits, and house-made desserts. Modern cocktails and a roomy patio increase the pleasure factor. 5775 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-283-1062. Second location (not yet reviewed) in Laguna Beach. $$

BRE A BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN One of North County’s best venues boasts advantages that are rare in these parts: thoughtfully executed Italian cuisine, a cozy setting, and appealing prices. This sibling of neighbor Cha Cha’s does winning arancini, steamed mussels, house-made pappardelle, and a fine branzino. Happy hour features steep discounts on terrific appetizers and signature Italian cocktails. 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000. $$ CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This cool hang with a wraparound sidewalk patio is Birch Street Promenade’s most enduring dining success. Helmed by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni, the menu of modern Mexican fare is boosted by a wood-burning oven and new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole. Taco Tuesday is just one of many weekly specials. Impressive tequila menu.

110 W. Birch St., 714-255-1040. See Irvine location. $$ MACALL ANS PUBLIC HOUSE Chef Andrew Wang’s modern but comforting pub cooking is just one upgrade that’s helping this young venue finally catch on in North County. Topnotch whiskey offerings and a killer Irish breakfast on weekends also entice. Don’t miss the ridiculously authentic Irish coffee, or stop in for the very robust happy hour. The upscale vibe is a welcome switch from the usual timeworn pub conditions. 330 W. Birch St., 714-529-1224. $$ OLD BREA CHOP HOUSE North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a Tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service.

Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with charcuterie platters. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714592-3122. Dinner only. $$$

CORONA DEL MAR THE BUNGALOW Comfy booths, a lively bar with stiff martinis, and lots of premium wines by the glass lure diners to this dinner house darling with the feel of a Craftsman home. Prime beef is king, but you also can get a huge Aussie lobster tail. Desserts are classic berries and cream, and chocolate souffle cake, so

OUR CRITERIA Restaurants are reviewed by our dining critics and staff and have no relationship to advertising in Orange Coast.

Listings are updated regularly. We do not accept free meals; visits are anonymous. Price classifications are based on a typical three‑course dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert) for one person. Alan Gibbons edits this listing. You can reach her at agibbons@orangecoast.com.

98 Ora nge C o a st • February 2022

Grilled foie gras with cherries at BluSky Bar you can concentrate on your surf ’n’ turf. Lunch is hearty sandwiches and huge high-quality salads.

Just save us a seat on the charming patio. 2441 E. Coast Highway, 949-673-6585. $$$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth enterprise, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ FIVE CROWNS O.C.’s beloved, vine-covered, fine-dining landmark of 1965 stays current thanks to a refreshed menu by executive chef Alejandra Padilla (formerly with Hillstone and Patina groups). Foodies thrill to foie gras brûlée and roast goose with wild grains, but sumptuous feasts of prime rib retain a hallowed spot on the carte at this Lawry’s-owned institution.

As always, service is polished and accommodating.

Leave room for the righteous sundae made with C.C. Brown’s hot fudge, an old Hollywood marvel. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-760-0331. Dinner only. $$$ SIDEDOOR Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes come-asyou-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$

COSTA MESA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

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2145 Santa Ana native and Pizzeria Ortica veteran Eduardo Salcedo brings an artisan mindset and Japanese aesthetic to this Neapolitan-style pizza joint in a cleverly repurposed auto shop. Aromas of almondwood fire whet the appetite for his finely crafted pies and imaginative toasts on house-baked shokupan, Japan’s beloved breakfast loaf. Sit at the white marble bar or under umbrellas on the patio to enjoy bresaola and burrata salad with pickled fennel, or hyper-tender octopus with diced potato, charred scallions, and squid ink mayo. 2145 Placentia Ave., 949-873-5853. Beer and wine. $$ DESCANSO Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$ HABANA Flickering candles light the way through a highceilinged dining room, convivial bar, and lush patio at The Lab’s enduring Cuban hang for date nights and late nights. Most of the fare sticks solidly to classics, such as roast chicken and ropa vieja, but the appetizer side is loaded with winners. Updates include a lavish, all-you-can-eat brunch with live island music and an array of delicious baked goodies.

Intimate confines make reservations a smart move.

2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176. See Irvine location. $$$ MESA At this high-style hipster hang with a retractable roof, expect shareable dishes that play by the sea-

sons and don’t shy away from intense flavors. Highlights include mussels sizzled in cast iron and fried cicchetti olives. An interesting, value-packed wine list beckons, as do inspired artisan cocktails. 725 Baker St., 714-557-6700. $$$ OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with competing options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night. Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world over, and he regularly leads culinary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$ PITFIRE ARTISAN PIZZA The first O.C. shop from this thriving L.A.-based chain is not your nonna’s pizzeria. Upbeat and come-asyou-are casual, it’s a Cal-Ital original. A menu packed with classic and seasonal wood-fired pies, pastas, and salads has wide appeal, so this retooled Marie Callender’s stays packed with fans of all ages. Check out its back-door speakeasy, Pie Society. 353 E. 17th St., 949-313-6333. $ TACO MARÍA Every dish is a marvel of deeply considered modern Cal-Mex cuisine from chef-owner and O.C. native Carlos Salgado, who parked his esteemed food truck enterprise for this site. Even the stripped-down setting draws all attention to the food. Dinners are four-course prix fixe affairs, with thoughtful wine pairings. Lunch—when the tacos appear—is a more laid-back and affordable way to sample the refined slant that snagged Salgado a Michelin star and several James Beard nominations for chef awards. 3313 Hyland Ave., 714-538-8444. Beer and wine. $$$

DANA POINT ENOSTEAK The coast’s most intimate salon for ultrapremium steaks is discreetly tucked just off the lobby at this esteemed resort. Beef—be it grass-fed, grain-fed, bone-in, or dry-aged—is the star of a pithy-if-pricey menu that’s unabashedly loyal. Lavish compound butters to enjoy alongside steaks are a house signature. Polished service and often enchanting desserts. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949240-2000. $$$ GLASSPAR Glasspar is a classic seafooder, oyster bar, and taproom. Veteran top toque and local Rob Wilson helms his dream retool of the old Mahé site, paused for dining but open for supporting the community with ultra-fresh goods and his five-star tips for serving seafood at home. A tight focus on topshelf cocktails is sure to be much appreciated once groups gather within toasting distance. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$ RAYA Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this posh-butrelaxed dining room conceived by celeb chef Richard Sandoval. After the eye-popping bluff-top ocean view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience.

But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

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DINING GUIDE

NICE TO MEAT YOU! | MARIO’S with spinach. A steak sandwich and the choripán with Argentine chorizo and chimichurri come off the grill. Breakfast is served all day and includes the California burrito, with your choice of meat plus egg, cheese, hash browns, and serrano-chipotle dipping sauce. Deli items are available for the patio or takeout. The butcher case presents cuts such as prime beef tongue

FOUNTAIN VALLE Y

FULLERTON

AU L AC A miraculous menu of traditional Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, without meat or fish, comprises the self-described “humanese” cuisine at this New Agey bistro. A creamy fish-shaped loaf of tofu is unforgettable; so are the spring rolls. Even desserts are healthful, with fruity selections such as Rainbow in the Sky Pie. 16563 Brookhurst St., 714-418-0658. $$ THE RECESS ROOM This city’s first gastropub exists because five childhood pals needed a local haunt for gathering after their weekly basketball game. Food and booze enjoy equal amounts of love at this 148-seat venue—a cleverly retooled former Coco’s. Expect small-batch, offbeat brews and ace craft cocktails, plus lots of rich, shareable noshes. Think tender octopus with toasted quinoa for contrast, luscious pork cheeks confit, and lime-yuzu panna cotta. 18380 Brookhurst St., 714-377-0398. $$$

THE CELL AR Fullerton’s abiding choice for classy, old-school French dining is a North County staple for romantic meals, thanks to an underground room that’s ornate, yet cozy. Expect swanky choices such as chateaubriand. 305 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-525-5682. $$$ KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN This halal bistro serves flavorful kebabs, curries, and street snacks alongside wood-fired wagyu steaks.

Creator and executive chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in fine-dining kitchens. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$

100 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

GARDEN GROVE NOVA KITCHEN & BAR This glamorous sleeper is a terrific dinner choice for distinctive fare that nods to Japan, Korea, and China. The handsome 35-seat covered

and Prime picanha, entraña, and vacio.

English banger and carne asada Santa Carota, made with beef raised on carrots, add to the international selection.

1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949-316-4318, mariosbutchershopdeli.com —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

patio is beyond fine. Executive chef Abel Vargas oversees a sizable menu that also includes showy sushi and top-shelf cocktails. Do consider the tuna tartare, corn tempura, or coriander-braised short rib. 12361 Chapman Ave., 714-696-0888. $$$

HUNTINGTON BE ACH LSXO

Step back in time to colonial Vietnam at this vest-pocket hideaway with only 28 seats.

Chef-owner Tin Vuong amplifies his successful L.A. Little Sister act with a sultry setting (tucked inside of huge Bluegold) and uncompromising Viet fare inspired by his roots and frequent travels to South Vietnam. Nifty craft cocktails and luxe dishes such as salt and pepper lobster make a good date night, but we also like the street-style noshes such as prawn crepes and lemongrass skewers. Fair warning: The uncensored rap soundtrack is not for all ears. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0083. $$

PHOTOGRAPH BY MAX MILL A

T

he beef on every sandwich at Mario’s Butcher & Delicatessen is all prime.

Most of the charcuterie selections, even the ones with Italian names, are cured and preserved in-house.

Sandwiches by chef-owner Mario Llamas include an Italian sub with genoa, coppa, and soppressata, and a rolled mortadella

PUESTO This high-profile taqueria expands its O.C. presence with a third epic site, this one in Bella Terra. Eyecandy lighting, a rotating steampunk back bar, and breezy patio compete for attention alongside jazzy drinks and dramatic taco-centric eats. Handmade blue corn tortillas and cheesy Oaxacan fricos give these tacos a signature difference. Ask about the monthly taco special. 7821 Edinger Ave., 714-316-0151. $$ See Irvine and Anaheim locations.

SESSIONS Surf City is the ideal spot for the second “West Coast deli,” this time across from the sand. Terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two are gourmet creations, meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. From-scratch soups, sides, and dressings. A surfer ethos extends to hearty breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 414 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-594-3899. Beer and wine. See Irvine and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ WATERTABLE Here’s a rare bird, a hotel restaurant in a tourist resort that the locals love for lots of reasons. Progressive takes on global dishes, tip-top craft drinks, copious happy hours, and the steady hand of longtime Chef Manfred Lassahn keep this venue on point.

We return just for the white cheddar and thyme biscuits with seasonal butter. The new morning lineup of health-first bowls, smoothies, and toasts caters

to beach runners. Hyatt Regency, 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-4776. $$$

IRVINE ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Irvine’s ever-slicker business zone is a good home for this classy, top-floor, New American choice for power diners, office pals, and couples. Modern craft cocktails enhance a menu that blends California ingredients with global flavors. Top toque Porfiro Gomez’s menu retains favorites such as the beef spring rolls, watermelon salad, and Duroc pork T-bone. Happy hour is a standout in a crowded field. 2607 Main St., 949-387-8887. $$ BISTANGO A longtime airport-area mainstay, Bistango has remained surprisingly contemporary, with creative dishes such as sweet, soulful garlic soup, and black truffle ravioli. It’s also a classy venue for live music, and its rotating art collection adds to the air of urban sophistication. 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949-752-5222. $$$ CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This addition to the restaurant family owned by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni is an inviting casa with a menu of modern Mexican fare boosted by commendable new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole to name a few. The indoor-meets-outdoor patio by designer Thomas Schoos is a fine upgrade

of the Brea flagship. Weekly specials add value and excitement. Impressive tequila menu. 13126 Jamboree Road, 714-408-7819. See Brea location. $$ HABANA We waited 22 years for this glamorous Habana sibling, and it was worth it—a sprawling 300-seat compound that co-opts Cuba’s frozen-in-time splendor.

A roomy patio open to the sky is made intimate by high walls and lots of beautiful props and vignettes, with alcoves dedicated to house pastries and coffees. Despite the impressive scale, the menu hews tightly to the focused offerings at its Costa Mesa original. 708 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-419-0100.

See Costa Mesa location. $$$ JA JIAOZI Handmade dumplings grace every table, anchoring meals rounded out with other hot and cold dishes.

First-timers, ask your able server for help. Top picks include steamed Flaming Hot and boiled Signature jiaozi, along with refreshing tofu-skin salad. Topnotch shrimp fried rice is a winner, too. 13776 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714-786-8999. $$ LITTLE SISTER This Irvine Spectrum spot is an XXL bistro to older sister shop LSXO. Chef-partner Tim Vuong musters a team that pulls off a bigger menu, bigger digs, and a bigger profile with ease. Find proven faves—the overstuffed Viet crepe and the Shaky Shaky Beef— plus new lunch porridges and banh mis streaming out of the kitchen to a bustling dining room. Vintage rap tracks and a crackerjack bar keep the vibe lively. 896 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-800-8798. $$$

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February 2022 • Or a nge Coast 101

DINING GUIDE MEIZHOU DONGPO Good seating, engaged service, and touches of elegance elevate this classy Sichuan dining room, a retool of a 6,000-square-foot Marie Callender’s in bustling Culver Plaza. Access is easy, and plentiful parking is free. Beyond that, it’s all about the Beijingstyle roast duck (whole, $77; half, $40), meticulously sliced into petals of tender meat crowned with crackling amber skin, for rolling into thin crepes.

Weeks of aging, drying, and lacquering coax out heady flavors. Spicy values include dan dan noodles and country-style sliced pork. 15363 Culver Drive, 949-433-5686. Beer and wine. $$$ PORCH & SWING This delightful indie serves a “taste BEST NEW RESTAURANT of Charleston” starring original riffs 2021 on American classics and cocktails

by Andrew Parish. Must-try dishes include roasted pork jowl over grits, amazing creamless creamed corn, and gorgeous salads. House-baked breads are a strength, too. The patio is lovely. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$ PUESTO San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options for O.C. fans. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oaxacan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from organic, non-GMO, blue corn masa. The cheese is especially brilliant on vegetarian tacos. Always ask about the monthly taco special. The Park Place center location’s indoor-meets-outdoor venue is intimate and color-splashed. Park Place, 3311 Michelson Drive, 949-608-7272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. See Anaheim and Huntington Beach locations. $$ SESSIONS No. 3 is a charm for O.C.’s indie chainlet of “West Coast” delis. Expect terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two, gourmet creations that are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. Fromscratch soups, sides, and dressings. A beguiling lakeside setting beckons for lazy breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 4736 Barranca Parkway, 949-333-3949. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Newport Beach locations.

Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas, daily aguas frescas, and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. Try the Oaxacan enchiladas. 13792 Jamboree Road, 714-5056080. See Newport Beach location. $$

LAGUNA BE ACH BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate decamped Charlie Palmer to create this sexy urban bistro. Fans old and new keep the tight quarters humming to the backdrop of an open kitchen and vintage flicks playing on the flat-screen over the expansive bar. Santana’s dishes are opulent and intense. The wine list includes many notable half-bottles. 328 Glenneyre St., 949-715-8234. $$$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Margarita’s sprawling shop, but both offer top-notch

102 Ora nge C oast • February 2022

Duck meatballs with cavatelli at Sapphire Cellar Craft Cook Cal-Mex fare. Expect prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, and Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Don’t miss costillitas—baby back ribs topped with fried onions. Outstanding margaritas.

Warm, spiffy service. 217 Broadway St., 949-715-7829.

See Rancho Santa Margarita location. $$ THE DRAKE The grown-ups sipping cocktails are here for a full serving of primo live music paired with the cuisine of Paul Gstrein (ex of Bistango and Bayside). Laguna’s own Alec Glasser prevails in creating a dashing joint where both the musicians and the kitchen have serious chops. Diners dig into Euro-inflected dishes (try the lamb lollipops, the Alpine Melt, the chile-lime swordfish).

Musicians dig the highbrow sound system, and the room generates a superlative groove. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-1000. $$$ DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN With its gorgeous seaside panorama, this place perfectly illustrates the food-versus-view gamble.

Prudent choices on chef Rainer Schwarz’s seasonal menu include whole fried fish, an unusual entree pairing of butcher steak-pork belly, and tarts by pastry chef Rene Baez. 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, 949715-7700. $$ MOZAMBIQUE The eclectic cuisine shows influences of South Africa.

Peri-peri prawns, curries, and grilled meats are best bets. The wine list includes interesting selections from South Africa and New Zealand. 1740 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-7777. $$$ NICK’S Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this urbane bar and grill lures grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of tasty cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with modern twists. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened halibut sandwich.

Softly lit and cushily appointed, the open-air space boasts a sidewalk patio. 440 S. Coast Highway, 949376-8595. See San Clemente location. $$

OLIVER’S OSTERIA Wedged into an oddball canyon retail center, this tidy shop is chef-owner Erik De Marchi’s all-out defense of faithful fare inspired by his home turf of Italy’s Emilia-Romana region. Pastas are wondrous, but do wait to hear the daily specials that can include juicy lamb chops or crepes (crespelle) with porcini mushrooms in truffle-perfumed béchamel. Tight quarters make dining noisy when the room is full. And Oliver? He’s De Marchi’s first child, born on opening day. 853 Laguna Canyon Road, 949-715-0261. $$$ SAPPHIRE CELL AR CRAFT COOK The latest incarnation of Laguna Beach’s historic Coast Highway venue is much better than it has to be, given its bulletproof location.

Upmarket, innovative American cuisine by executive chef Jared Cook includes irresistible weekend brunch waffles and Benedicts, classy lunch salads, and dinners that star fresh oysters and a splendid ribeye. On-site pantry for beach eats. 1200 South Coast Highway, 949-715-9888. $$$ SEL ANNE STEAK TAVERN Anaheim Ducks star Teemu Selanne cements his brand with this polished and popular steak joint on a venerated stretch of Coast Highway.

Prime, pricey beef rules the day on executive chef Vince Terusa’s menu designed for a pro athlete’s appetite and fan base. We like the main floor’s easy, breezy tavern for terrific cocktails, the superlative burger, and world-class people watching. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$ SUEÑOS This retooled historic venue is forging a contemporary Latin approach that blends the foodways of Mexico with those of Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Puerto Rico. Mexico City-born Alan Sanz brings a worldly resumé to his executive chef post with polished fusion dishes including birria arepas, blackberry mole duck, epazote pesto pasta, and house-made desserts. Patio seating is popular, but the bar also beckons for a fine Cuban sandwich.

222 Ocean Ave., 949-715-8155 Closed Mondays. $$$ photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

LAGUNA HILLS IRONWOOD The savvy team behind Vine in San Clemente notches another hit with this welcoming dinner house in a zone with scant options. Executive chef Jared Cook’s modern, seasonal menu roams from delicate to hearty, but all dishes showcase his knack for upping the crave factor. Examples: chicken schnitzel with mushrooms, Zinfandelbraised lamb shank with mint yogurt. Terrific craft cocktails shift with the seasons. On-point service from a gracious crew. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-4468772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL CALO KITCHEN + TEQUIL A Chic and breezy as a Baja resort, this sprawling spot has its act together, luring local crowds for upscale Mexican classics. An unending flow of worthy margaritas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well executed shrimp ceviche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchiladas. Huge portions, sharp service, and modern digs seal the deal. Scores of sipping tequilas delight agave fans. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949-4097380. $$$ HENDRIX Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hendrix swaggers into Laguna Niguel with a place that promises something for everyone in this option-

lean suburb. It’s from the group behind Laguna Beach’s The Deck and Driftwood Kitchen, and partner Austrian-born Rainer Schwarz is executive chef.

A showpiece rotisserie roasts plump chickens, porchetta, and lamb while basting potatoes in the catch bin with juices from the meats. Irresistible small plates include prosciutto fritters, Brussels sprouts with Marcona almonds, and chicken-fontina flatbread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$

LA HABRA EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with olives and a fried egg.

Green corn tamales (available seasonally) have achieved cult status. This location oozes a family vibe. 840 E. Whittier Blvd., 562-691-4618. See Anaheim Hills and Corona del Mar locations. $

MISSION VIEJO DUBLIN 4 GASTROPUB Publicans Darren and Jean Coyle welcome a varied crowd to this chipper modern pub, designed to rival Dublin’s finest. Executive chef David Shofner applies fine-dining cred and scratch cooking to a menu of new and old-school fare that sparkles. Don’t-miss items include premium cottage pies, a killer lamb burger, and anything with house-cured meats. Upscale pricing and dapper

43 YEARS

RESTAURANTS 17th Street Grill 714.730.0003 Belacan Grill MALAYSIAN BISTRO Distinctive Shopping and Dining

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surroundings prove this is not your frat brother’s Irish pub. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. $$$ WINEWORKS FOR EVERYONE This near-hidden pocket bistro is a top choice for wine-centric cuisine in South County. A retooled menu by chef David Shofner, who also helms the kitchen at Dublin 4 next door, brims with seasonal California fare that flatters a wine list of West Coast and international bottles. Must-haves include sausage flatbread, and a killer cheese plate. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. Beer and wine. $$$

N E W P ORT BE AC H A&O KITCHEN + BAR A serious reboot of this fabled lounge—formerly Duke’s—transforms this waterside venue into a gastropub with a newly youthful vibe. Expect all the usual share plates: battered fries, shishito peppers, bacon-wrapped dates, plus several hearty plates including a worthy Kobe burger with bacon mayo on a cheddar-bacon bun. Bold, neonautical decor plays off the “anchors and oceans” theme and brings the bay view to life. The water’s-edge patio is inviting for sunset drinks or gathering ’round the fire pit. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Highway, 949-630-4285. $$ BAYSIDE Classy Bayside remains a go-to choice on many fronts. Nightly happy hour stars a winning small-plates menu that keeps the bar hopping.

Rotating artwork keeps the dining room ever fresh for relaxed meals of debonair American fare. Long

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SEVENTEENTH STREET & YORBA ST., TUSTIN — 55 FRWY. NORTH OR SOUTH, EXIT SEVENTEENTH ST. EAST February 2022 • Or a nge Coast 103

DINING GUIDE favored by the coastal set for jazzy brunches, insiders stop in Friday night for a legendary jam session in the bar. Prix fixe menus are a strength here. 900 Bayside Drive, 949-721-1222. $$$ BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse canoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite.

Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. Coming soon, Nardone’s take on hip patio brunching. 1200 Bison Ave., 949-520-7191. $$$ BOUILLON Indefatigable operator Laurent Vrigand, NEW the founder of six Moulin cafes, debuts his first full-service restaurant—an homage to Paris’ Bouillon Chartier, his childhood favorite. Expect one all-day menu of nostalgic fare at painless prices, no substitutions, no reservations, and snappy service.

Standouts include tian Provençal, beef bourguignon, and profiteroles. 1000 N. Bristol, 949-418-9549. $$ FABLE & SPIRIT From the family behind Dublin 4 BEST NEW RESTAURANT comes this lush addition to the area 2020 across from Lido Marina Village. But don’t assume this is an Irish pub that mimics the other. This plush room features inventive fare that’s a mashup of American and Irish. Here you start with Hares Looking at You, a cocktail starring Wheatley vodka and carrot juice, move on to the refined beet agnolotti with chèvre foam, or share a woodfired duck confit pizetta. Yes, the fish and chips are superior, but so is the rabbit fricassee. 3441 Via Lido, 949-409-9913. $$$ LIDO BOTTLE WORKS This handsome waterfront venue sounds like a liquor store, but it’s a sleeper of a full-service restaurant hiding in the swanky Lido Marina Village development. Hyper-seasonal and prettily plated, notable creations include Dory Fleet catches of the day, opulent Iberico secreto pork, a solid burger, and one glorious chocolate mousse. 3408 Via Oporto, 949-529-2784. $$ MOULIN Moulin is the passion project of Paris native Laurent Vrignaud. After 30 years in the action-sports industry, he lives his longtime dream of serving bistro classics, selling oven-fresh baguettes and grab-and-go dishes, and peddling wines and other French pantry items. The unfussy bistro and patio evoke Paris at every turn. It’s O.C.’s gathering spot for expats and Francophiles. 1000 Bristol St. North, 949-474-0920. Locations in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$ OLEA CELL AR CRAFT COOK Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offering from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood and Vine, a homegrown hospitality group. Fans of chef Jared Cook will recognize some familiar dishes from his sibling shops, but there are exclusives here, too. We’re mad for the opulent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarragon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949-287-6807. Dinner nightly. $$$

104 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

Avocado farm salad at Bosscat Kitchen & Libations

SESSIONS This busy “West Coast deli” on the peninsula crafts terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two. A surfer vibe extends to hearty breakfasts at 7 a.m. daily, starring Golden State Coffee Roaster coffee.

2823 Newport Blvd., 949-220-9001. Beer and wine.

See Huntington Beach and Irvine locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ SHOREBIRD Hidden inside the Vue Newport enclave, Shorebird is invisible until you enter the airy split-level space dominated by its waterfront view.

Expect contemporary American fare plus familiar side detours for sushi and tacos. Best bets include Duroc pork chop, lump crab cakes, avocado fries.

2220 Newport Blvd., 949-287-6627. $$$ SUSHI ROKU The sixth location of this Cal-Japanese concept makes a huge impression with striking decor and vibrant cuisine. If the dining room’s busier than the sushi bar, blame the thoughtfully designed and executed menu, notably dishes such as fluke kumquat sashimi, blue crab tartare, prime ribeye Japonais, and the deconstructed s’mores. The creative sushi deserves a night all its own, and the bar and patio offer their own vibes. Look for scores of noodles, salads, and bento boxes at lunch, and sakes. 327 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-3622. $$$ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949720-0980. See Irvine location. $$ TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR David Wilhelm, the county’s restaurant laureate, returns to Newport Beach with this fetching and welcome rehab of a waterside venue. Menus read like a playlist of Wilhelm’s champion recipes. Stand out new dishes for dinner and weekend brunch include red snapper Veracruzana, Buddha bowls, sirloin meatballs, and fried chicken with malted

waffles. Look for a natty pre-sunset happy hour on weekdays. 333 Bayside Drive, 949-673-8464. $$ THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The snazzy venue overlooks the yacht and Duffy boat traffic in Newport Harbor, flaunting its waterfront charms with 180-degree views from two floors plus a cigar patio. The space sizzles with bonhomie— and diners who love their surf, turf, wine, and VIP treatment. Expect cosseting service from partners JC Clow, William Lewis, and executive chef Yvon Goetz.

Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 3131 W. Coast Highway, 949-999-6622. See Tustin location. $$$

NE WPORT COAST THE BEACHCOMBER The surf’s-edge view might be better than the food, but the drinks and eats are good enough to keep this iconic spot packed with beachgoers. Stick with basics such as grilled artichokes, lobster club, and stuffed salmon. Executive chef Carlos Olivera oversees the seasonal breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$ MARCHÉ MODERNE The finest French bistro south of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs 2018 that express a fresh chapter for the redoubtable Florent and Amelia Marneau. Added space and oversize windows let the outdoors into a room that oozes grace and sophistication. Beloved dishes such as Spanish octopus with chorizo return to the dinner menu alongside new creations from the open kitchen—think crispy suckling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only.

7862 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 714-434-7900. $$$ WASA SUSHI James Hamamori cemented his stardom at this striking shopping-center spot brimming with devotees of modern spins on sushi. Renowned for such fare as salmon with ginger sauce and fresh

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

orange. Exceptional selection of salads, appetizers, and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511.

Beer and wine. $$ ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST This attractive shopping center offshoot of the popular original Zov’s in Tustin is a go-to patio cafe that lures locals with creative Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin location. $$$

ORANGE BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a southern accent. Look for Parm-crusted meatloaf, gulf shrimp and grits, and a yowza burger. The service is sharp. Sunday brunch and a robust midweek happy hour. 118 W. Chapman Ave., 714-716-1599. $$ HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR A serious contender in the gastropub category, this popular storefront in Old Towne lures a mixed crowd of brew fanatics and foodies, thanks to a rich roster of esoteric suds and polished pub grub from chef Craig Brady. Dishes such as a braised lamb pappardelle and coriander roasted baby carrots. Lunch and early dinner are options for bypassing the deafening din that rises with the crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680. $$

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN & BAR Lakeside seats, terrific craft cocktails, and daring fare by young chef Karl Pfleider earn local love for this rare gastro-canteen in Rancho Santa Margarita. Midweek tapas start at 3 p.m. with goodies such as steak tartare with pistachio XO sauce. But wait until 5 p.m. for the mahi-mahi with paprika mole. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949888-0072. Second location (not reviewed) in Yorba Linda, 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2593. $$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN This lakefront sprawler offers top-notch Cal-Mex fare from the culinary vision of owner Clemente Heredia Jr., a third-generation operator. Expect prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Outstanding margaritas.

Warm, spiffy service. 31441 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949-709-7600. See Laguna Beach location. $$

SAN CLEMENTE NICK’S On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact allday menu of comfort classics with a modern twist.

Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened fish sandwich. And there’s a sidewalk patio with fireplace. Sociable service is notably polished.

213 Avenida Del Mar, 949-481-2200. See Laguna Beach location. $$ SOUTH OF NICK’S From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110 N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location (not reviewed) in Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$ VINE A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new heights, because owner Russ Bendel Jr. wisely gives sauce monster and executive chef Jared Cook full reign over the kitchen. Look for killer duck wings and nightly specials that tend to sell out. A garden out back only sweetens this beach burg gem. 211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079. Dinner only. $$$

SAN JUAN C APISTRANO MAYFIELD Modern, hyper-seasonal California fare meets the timeless food ways of the Middle East at this ingenious newcomer. Breezy two-story digs include a pretty quartz bar for leading-edge cocktails. Do try fried eggplant, lamb meatballs, and

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February 2022 • Or a ng e Coast 105

DINING GUIDE TERRACE BY MIX MIX Canny chef-owner Ross Pangilinan leverages the success of his original Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in downtown Santa Ana with this minimalist aerie overlooking the stylish Bridge of Gardens skywalk at South Coast Plaza. This venue lacks a full bar, but it has wine and beer and is open daily with ample free parking. Fans love the three-course lunch for $20, but weekend brunch with its mimosa cart beguiles, and dinner offers the best prix fixe in the center.

Don’t-miss dishes include Asian ribs, hamachi crudo, and pork cheek adobo. 3333 Bear St., 657-231-6447. $$ VACA Top chef Amar Santana and ace partner Ahmed Labbate return to Costa Mesa with an exuberant, singular ode to Spain. Santana sidesteps the “eat local” crusade, offering peerless jamon Iberico, lush bomba rice for paellas, and verdant Mahon gin for cocktails. Dozens of authentic tapas beg to be tried, but do consider excellent wood-grilled steaks, dry-aged in-house. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$

Bone marrow pizza at Terrace by Mix Mix shareable dips. By day, look for indulgent brunch dishes. 31761 Camino Capistrano, 949-218-5140. $$$ RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ A sweet adobe hiding in the historic Los Rios district, Ramos House Café turns out some of South County’s most delectable daytime fare. Contemporary and clever American breakfasts and lunches (brunch on weekends) have a distinct Southern accent that fits the rustic, alfresco setting with passing trains as soundtrack. Look for ethereal biscuits and crab hash. 31752 Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$

SANTA ANA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

BENCHMARK Quirky but capable, this Santa Ana newcomer goes all-in for alfresco, luring diners with a tree-shaded setting on a vintage residential street. The modest menu of American bistro dishes is just big enough to have wide appeal. Happy hour and weekend brunch have a backyard party vibe. Dinner surprises with upmarket dishes, say a lovely bavette steak atop celery root puree. 601 E. Santa Ana Blvd., 714-480-0225. $$ MIX MIX KITCHEN BAR DTSA got a major dining upgrade BEST NEW RESTAURANT with this winner from chef-owner 2017 Ross Pangilinan. A veteran of highend dining, his major culinary chops rule the day but not the tab at his breakout venue with zero pretension and multicourse meals packed with finesse. Think prosciutto toast with quince honey, and seared foie gras with al pastor spices and charred pineapple. Spiffy craft cocktails, too. 300 N. Main St., 714-836-5158. Dinner only. $$$

SOUTH COAST ME TRO ANQI

Tight focus on the fare makes dining at this South Coast Plaza hot spot better than ever.

Executive chef Ron Lee makes delicious harmony

106 Ora nge C o ast • February 2022

with matriarch master chef Helene An’s spicy beef tacos and roasted New Zealand lamb rack, as well as her fabled roast crab (Tuesday only). Zen chic decor turns heads. Drinks at the dramatic bar dazzle the cocktail crowd, but try Sunday brunch for a more kickback experience, or snag a padded stool at the adjacent noodle bar. 3333 Bristol St., 714-5575679. $$$ DIN TAI FUNG Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, handpleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bristol St., 714-549-3388. $$ KNIFE PLEAT Knife Pleat replaces long-gone Marché Moderne in the penthouse of South Coast Plaza.

The radically transformed 80-seat setting is a clear signal that this French arrival is wholly apart from its predecessor. Chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi are new to O.C. though acclaimed in Los Angeles, and in the case of Esnault, covered in Michelin star dust after years with mentor Alain Ducasse. Esnault is a disciple of the seasons; his style is light, graceful, and precise as revealed by escargot ravioli in broth, his famous legumes de saison, or the ultrarefined cassoulet. Don’t skip Germain Biotteau’s indulgent desserts. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. $$$ PARADISE DYNAST Y Singapore’s largest restaurant group opts for the Bloomingdale’s end of South Coast Plaza for its first U.S. operation with this wildly popular soup dumpling specialist that pioneered xiao long bao, oozing with luxury ingredients that include black truffles, foie gras, and crab roe. Ultramodern digs seat diners in view of an exhibition kitchen where 20 artisans handcraft a steady flow of dumplings to support a 75-dish menu starring dim sum and Sichuan classics.

Walk-up wait list. 3333 Bristol St., 714-617-4630 $$

TUSTIN CENTRO STORICO Old Town Tustin’s new kid on the old block transforms a vintage building into a spaghetteria and bar, plus a back pocket cafe. Artisan, fresh daily pasta is the latest effort from the Pozzuoli family behind Centro, the excellent micro pizzeria next door. Signature dishes include Capperi e Olive (casarecca), Aglione (bucatini), and grilled porterhouse for two.

405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$ THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The O.C. power crowd doesn’t care that this isn’t a winery, but a huge, handsome restaurant that attracts disciples of steak, wine, and cigars. They’re exactly the folks you’d expect would follow partners JC Clow and William Lewis from their previous gig at Morton’s, with executive chef Yvon Goetz in tow. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$ THE YELLOW CHILLI This place is by Sanjeev Kapoor, India’s mega-celebrity chef. The massive menu proves the master chef isn’t stingy with recipes, after writing more than 150 cookbooks. Knowledgeable servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714-389-5280. $$ ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, creative way with Mediterranean flavors. Zov keeps her flagship venue fresh and stylish. Expect Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic meze starters. The patio cafe out back stays busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855.

See Newport Coast location. $$$

DINING NEWS Subscribe to our O.C. Dining newsletter and follow our coverage at orangecoast.com.

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

SP E C IAL ADV E RT ISIN G SE C T ION

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY

2022 THE ANNUAL LIST OF TOP ATTORNEYS

Keith P. More Gregory L. Bentley

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

TOP 100 ORANGE COUNTY

TOP 50

Keith P. More Gregory L. Bentley

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SP E C IAL ADV E RT ISIN G SE C T ION

CALLAHAN & BLAINE, APLC SANTA ANA

L to R: David J. Darnell*, Laura M. Morris, Javier H. Van Oordt*, Edward Susolik*+, Sharon Yuen, Michael J. Sachs*, Brian J. McCormack*, Richard T. Collins*

Callahan & Blaine has achieved record-breaking verdicts and settlements across a diverse range of litigation issues. “We don’t have a narrow focus in any one area of the law,” explains managing partner Edward Susolik. “Instead, our attorneys have expertise from both plaintiff and defense perspectives in a broad spectrum of complex litigation matters, including business litigation, insurance law, class actions and catastrophic personal injury.”

Callahan & Blaine’s attorneys have at least 10 years’ experience and the majority have more than 15 years’ experience.

The firm’s excellence and success are based on the legacy of founder Dan Callahan, one of the country’s top trial lawyers. The National Law Journal named him one of the Top 10 Attorneys in the United States, and California Lawyer magazine named him Attorney of the Year in litigation.

Established in 1984, Callahan & Blaine consists of 28 experienced trial attorneys. In fact, all of

*SUPER LAWYERS HONOREE +TOP 100 & TOP 50 ORANGE COUNTY

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ATTORNEYS SELECTED TO SUPER LAWYERS AND RISING STARS WERE CHOSEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROCESS ON PAGE S-4.

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SP E C IAL ADV E RT ISIN G SE C T ION

Stephen E. Blaine Edward Susolik Brian J. McCormack

Javier H. Van Oordt Michael J. Sachs

NOT PICTURED: Stephen E. Blaine*

Callahan & Blaine has a broad range of historic results. Most notable is the firm‘s $934 million jury verdict in a complex business litigation trial, which is the highest jury verdict in the history of Orange County. In addition, the firm obtained a $50 million settlement, which Trials Digest (Westlaw) certified as one of the largest personal injury settlements in United States history. Callahan & Blaine lawyers also obtained the largest insurance bad faith judgment in Orange County history at $58 million and the largest employment settlement at $38 million.

Overall, Callahan & Blaine lawyers have

achieved hundreds of seven- and eight-figure verdicts and settlements.

Remarkable for a boutique litigation firm of its size, Callahan & Blaine has seven attorneys selected to Super Lawyers in 2022, including Mr. Susolik who has again been named to the Super Lawyers Top 100 list for Southern California as well as the Top 50 list for Orange County.

3 HUTTON CENTRE DR., SUITE 900, SANTA ANA, CA 92707 PH: (714) 241-4444 | FX: (714) 241-4445

callahan-law.com SUPER LAWYERS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / ORANGE COUNTY 2022

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SP E C IAL ADV E RT ISIN G SE C T ION

SELECTION PROCESS Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented multiphase selection process.*

OUR PATENTED SELECTION PROCESS

The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. We limit the lawyer ratings to those who can be hired and retained by the public, i.e., lawyers in private practice and Legal Aid attorneys.

NOMINATIONS

The Super Lawyers selection process involves the steps outlined in the graphic (at right).

Diverse list of the top attorneys nominated by their own peers

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH Evaluated by third-party research across 12 key categories

LEARN MORE SuperLawyers.com/SelectionProcess QUESTIONS? SL-Research@thomsonreuters.com

PEER EVALUATION Reviewed by a highly credentialed Blue Ribbon Panel of attorneys

visit SuperLawyers.com

FINAL SELECTION

Search for an attorney by practice area and location, and read features on attorneys selected to our lists.

2.5%

5%

of attorneys selected to Rising Stars

of attorneys selected to Super Lawyers

DISCLAIMER: The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon the advertising or listings in this magazine. Super Lawyers does not certify or designate an attorney as a specialist, is not a title conferred on individual lawyers, and is not intended to communicate that lawyers selected will achieve better results upon the advertising or listings in the magazine.

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SP E C IAL ADV E RT ISIN G SE C T ION

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

ORANGE COUNTY

UP-ANDCOMING 25

UP-ANDCOMING 100

Matthew D. Easton 2021

Matthew D. Easton 2021

Sitting L-R: Mani Navab, Travis Easton‡, Matt Easton†, Gabriel Mendoza^ Standing L-R: Steven Dominguez, Brian Easton**, Doug Easton*, Brenda Kocaj *Chosen to 2009-2022 Super Lawyers **Chosen to 2016-2022 Super Lawyers †Chosen to 2014-2021 Rising Stars ‡Chosen to 2019-2021 Rising Stars ^Chosen to 2021 Rising Stars

A FAMILY OF DEDICATED PERSONAL INJURY LITIGATORS With more than 100 years of combined personal injury litigation experience and having acquired more than $100,000,000 for their clients in the past five years alone, Easton & Easton—comprised of Doug and his sons Brian, Matt and Travis—only represents those seriously injured or who have suffered the wrongful death of a loved one. Doug and Brian are Southern California Super Lawyers honorees, Matt is a 2021 Orange County Up-and-Coming 25 and Southern California Up-and-Coming 100 Rising Stars honoree, Travis is a 2021 Rising Stars honoree for the third year, and Gabriel Mendoza is a 2021 Rising Stars honoree.

The acclaim does not stop with the Super Lawyers list, as the Eastons have each been selected among the 10 Best Personal Injury Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys and have all received MartindaleHubbell’s® highest AV Preeminent® rating for ethics and legal ability. Doug and Matt have also been selected as Premier 100 Trial Attorneys by the American Academy of Trial Attorneys, while Doug and Brian are both featured among The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers in California.

Doug, Brian, Matt and Travis are also recognized among The Best Lawyers in America®; Matt, Travis, Gabriel, and Brenda Kocaj have all been selected to The National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 under 40; and Brian, Matt and Travis have all earned lifetime certifications to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum® - The Top Trial Lawyers in America® (an honor given to less than one percent of attorneys in the U. S.). With this kind of pedigree, it is not surprising the firm has been chosen as the Readers’ Choice for Best Personal Injury Law Firm in Orange County by the Los Angeles Times, 2018-2020.

UNIQUE ADVOCACY AND SUCCESS As a family of attorneys, the Eastons find they are able to better synergize their efforts to achieve exceptional results for their clients. The power of this synergy was recently exhibited when Easton & Easton acquired $20,000,000 for a client severely injured on the premises of the defendants.

The defendants initially contended that they were not liable for any of the plaintiff’s damages and would not pay a penny for settlement, vowing to spend millions to defend the case.

However, the Eastons spent more than two years investigating and litigating the matter until they proved that the defendants had significant liability for this tragic incident, leading to the remarkable $20 million settlement.

Due to the respect they have earned among their peers in the legal community while standing up for the rights of victims like this client, Easton & Easton is listed by U.S. News - Best Lawyers® as one of Southern California’s Best Law Firms once again this year.

EASTON & EASTON, LLP 650 Town Center Drive, Suite 1850, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 PH: (714) 850-4590 • FX: (714) 850-1978

eastonlawfirm.com • info@eastonlawfirm.com

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TOP 50 ORANGE COUNTY AN ALPHABETICAL LISTING OF THE LAWYERS WHO RANKED TOP OF THE LIST IN THE 2022 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SUPER LAWYERS NOMINATION, RESEARCH AND BLUE RIBBON REVIEW PROCESS.

Aitken, Darren, Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Hodes, Daniel Martin, Hodes Milman Ikuta, Irvine

Popovich, Jerry C., Selman Breitman, Santa Ana

Bentley, Gregory L., Bentley & More, Newport Beach

Hollander, Garrick A., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach

Roberts, Jeffrey, Roberts | Jeandron Law, Newport Beach

Briggs, Steven E., Attorney at Law, Newport Beach Hueston, John C., Hueston Hennigan, Newport Beach Brown, Matt, Brown & Streza, Irvine Brown, Jr., William J., Brown Wegner, Irvine Burke, Sean M., Burke | Argos, Irvine Burkhalter, Alton G., Burkhalter Kessler Clement & George, Irvine Corrigan, Kate, Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, Newport Beach Dillion, Gregory L., Newmeyer Dillion, Newport Beach

Johnson, Casey R., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Robinson, Daniel S., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach Robinson, Jr., Mark P., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach Seastrom, Brian, Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine

Kazerounian, Abbas, Kazerouni Law Group, Costa Mesa

Seastrom, Philip G., Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine

Keller, Jennifer L., Keller/Anderle, Irvine

Simon, Craig S., Berger Kahn, Irvine

Kessler, Daniel J., Burkhalter Kessler Clement & George, Irvine

Sugden, David, Call & Jensen, Newport Beach Susolik, Edward, Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana

Klein, Gerald A., Klein & Wilson, Newport Beach Theodora, Todd C., Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa

Djang, Caroline R., Best Best & Krieger, Irvine

Ly, Geraldine, Law Office of Geraldine Ly, Santa Ana

Ezra, David B., Berger Kahn, Irvine

Milman, Jeffrey A., Hodes Milman Ikuta, Irvine

Friedland, Todd G., Stephens Friedland, Costa Mesa

Minyard, Mark E., Minyard Morris, Newport Beach

Garner, Scott B., Umberg Zipser, Irvine

More, Keith P., Bentley & More, Newport Beach

West, Michelle M., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach

Gibson, Robert B., Gibson & Hughes, Santa Ana

Morris, Michael A., Minyard Morris, Newport Beach

Golden, Jeffrey I., Weiland Golden Goodrich, Costa Mesa

Parke, James R., Holstrom Block & Parke, Newport Beach

Whyte, Nicole, Bremer Whyte Brown & O'Meara, Newport Beach

Golubow, Richard H., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach

Penn, Michael A., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Tuttle, Thomas W., Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine Valentine, Kimberly, Valentine Law Group, Mission Viejo Wesierski, Christopher P., Wesierski & Zurek, Lake Forest

Wilson, Mark B., Klein & Wilson, Newport Beach

Gross, Wayne R., Greenberg Gross, Costa Mesa

Zipser, Dean J., Umberg Zipser, Irvine Phillips, Ben, Phillips Whisnant Gazin Gorczyca & Curtin, Newport Beach

Where do I start my search for an attorney?

The Super Lawyers® list is comprised of the top 5% of attorneys in each state selected via a patented process that includes independent research, peer nominations, and evaluation.

The answer is SuperLawyers.com

© 2020 Thomson Reuters TR1229162/09-20

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

TOP 50 WOMEN

Dana Lowy Felicia R. Meyers Doreen Marie Olson

Lisa Helfend Meyer

Lisa Helfend Meyer

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022

Administrative Law ......................................... S-8

THE ANNUAL LIST

Alternative Dispute Resolution ...................... S-8

BY PRIMARY AREA OF PRACTICE

BANKING Wolfe, Stuart B., Wolfe & Wyman, Irvine

Animal Law...................................................... S-8 Antitrust Litigation .......................................... S-8 Appellate ......................................................... S-8 Banking............................................................ S-8 Bankruptcy: Business ...................................... S-8 Business Litigation .........................................S-10 Business/Corporate .......................................S-10 Civil Litigation: Defense .................................S-10

The list was finalized as of June 14, 2021. Only attorneys who data verified with Super Lawyers for the current year are included on the list that follows. All current selections and any updates to the list (e.g., status changes or disqualifying events) will be reflected on superlawyers.com.

Names and page numbers in RED indicate a profile on the specified page. Phone numbers are included only for attorneys with paid Super Lawyers or Rising Stars print advertisements.

Civil Litigation: Plaintiff ..................................S-12 Class Action/Mass Torts ................................S-12 Closely Held Business ....................................S-12 Construction Litigation ..................................S-12 Consumer Law................................................S-12

ADMINISTRATIVE LAW Talmo, Ronald, Law Office of Ronald Talmo, Santa Ana

Criminal Defense ............................................S-12

Elder Law ........................................................S-12 Eminent Domain ............................................S-12 Employee Benefits..........................................S-14

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION Coviello, Robert D., ADR Services, Irvine

Employment & Labor .....................................S-14

Gray, Geoffrey, Gray Mediation, Laguna Niguel

Employment Litigation: Defense ...................S-14

Kuhn, Steven, Judicate West, San Juan Capistrano

Employment Litigation: Plaintiff ...................S-14

LaBelle, Lance, ADR Services, Irvine

Environmental ................................................S-14 Environmental Litigation ...............................S-14 Estate & Trust Litigation ................................S-14

Pistone, Thomas A., Pistone Law Group, Newport Beach

Estate Planning & Probate ............................S-14

Rabin, Byron, Judicate West, Santa Ana

Family Law......................................................S-14 Franchise/Dealership ....................................S-16

Reinglass, Michelle A., ADR Office of Michelle A. Reinglass and Judicate West, Aliso Viejo

General Litigation...........................................S-16

Wagner, John Leo, Judicate West, Santa Ana

Health Care.....................................................S-16 Immigration ....................................................S-16 Insurance Coverage........................................S-16 Intellectual Property ......................................S-17 Intellectual Property Litigation......................S-17

ANIMAL LAW Montevideo, John Michael, Montevideo Law dba Dog Bite Law Group, Irvine

International ...................................................S-17 Land Use/Zoning ...........................................S-18 Media and Advertising ...................................S-18

Andrassy, Kyra E., Smiley Wang-Ekvall, Costa Mesa Barbarosh, Craig A., Katten Muchin Rosenman, Irvine Bello, Reem, Weiland Golden Goodrich, Costa Mesa Burd, William, Ringstad & Sanders, Newport Beach Casey, Thomas, The Law Offices of Thomas H. Casey, Rancho Santa Margarita Djang, Caroline R., Best Best & Krieger, Irvine Pg. S-6

Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI...........................S-12 Criminal Defense: White Collar .....................S-12

BANKRUPTCY: BUSINESS

ANTITRUST LITIGATION

Forsythe, Marc C., Goe Forsythe & Hodges, Irvine, 949-798-2460 Pg. S-17 Fromme, Eric J., Pacheco & Neach, Irvine Garza, Oscar, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, Irvine Gaschen, Beth E., Weiland Golden Goodrich, Costa Mesa Golden, Jeffrey I., Weiland Golden Goodrich, Costa Mesa Pg. S-6 Golubow, Richard H., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach Pg. S-6 Goodrich, David M., Weiland Golden Goodrich, Costa Mesa Guess, David M., Greenberg Traurig, Irvine Haes, Chad V., Marshack Hays, Irvine Hollander, Garrick A., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach Pg. S-6 Lianides, Peter W., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach Lobel, William N., Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa Malo, Aaron J., Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, Costa Mesa

Personal Injury General: Defense ..................S-18

Purdy, Andrew M., Attorney at Law, Irvine

Marticello, Robert S., Smiley Wang-Ekvall, Costa Mesa

Personal Injury General: Plaintiff...................S-18

Sergi, Gregory M., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-9

O’Keefe, Sean A., O’Keefe & Associates Law Corp., Irvine

Mergers & Acquisitions ..................................S-18

Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Defense ........................................................S-19 Personal Injury Medical Malpractice: Plaintiff ........................................................S-19

Opera, Robert E., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach

APPELLATE

Personal Injury Products: Defense ................S-19 Personal Injury Products: Plaintiff .................S-19

Bove, Brooke, Bove Law Group, Santa Ana

Professional Liability: Defense ......................S-19

Dato, Robert M., Buchalter, Irvine

Professional Liability: Plaintiff .......................S-19 Real Estate .....................................................S-19 Schools & Education ......................................S-19 Securities & Corporate Finance .....................S-19

Dodd, John L., John L. Dodd and Associates, Tustin Dunn, Jr., E. Thomas, Law Offices of E. Thomas Dunn Jr., Tustin

Securities Litigation........................................S-19 Social Security Disability ...............................S-20 State, Local & Municipal ...............................S-20 Surety .............................................................S-20 Tax..................................................................S-20 Workers’ Compensation................................S-20

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Perry Isaacson, Misty A., Pagter and Perry Isaacson, Santa Ana Ramsaur, Brett, Ramsaur Law Office, Laguna Hills Ringstad, Todd, Ringstad & Sanders, Newport Beach Sanders, Nanette D., Ringstad & Sanders, Newport Beach Wall, William J., Wall & Son, Aliso Viejo

Evanson, Blaine H., Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, Irvine

Wang Ekvall, Lei Lei, Smiley Wang-Ekvall, Costa Mesa

Fuller, Marjorie G., Law Offices of Marjorie G. Fuller, Santa Ana

Winthrop, Marc J., Winthrop Golubow Hollander, Newport Beach

Saylin, Brian G., The Law Offices of Saylin & Swisher, Newport Beach

Wood, David A., Marshack Hays, Irvine CONTINUED ON PAGE S-10

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 Grant, David C., Grant Genovese & Baratta, Irvine, 949-660-1600 Pg. S-18

Roosevelt, T. Kevin, Finlayson Toffer Roosevelt & Lilly, Irvine

Abdollahi, Panteha, Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa

Gross, Wayne R., Greenberg Gross, Costa Mesa Pg. S-6

Rudolph, George Cooper, George C. Rudolph, Irvine

Abel, Joshua, Abel Law Offices, Irvine

Hall, Howard D., Hall Griffin, Santa Ana

Aitken, Darren, Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana Pg. S-6

Hodel, Matthew A., Hodel Wilks, Irvine

Sachs, Michael J., Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2

BUSINESS LITIGATION

Aljian, Reed, Daily Aljian, Newport Beach Anderle, Kay, Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-9 Bertram, Christy L., Johnson & Bertram, Mission Viejo Blank, Christopher, Attorney at Law, Newport Beach, 949-250-4600 Bowerbank, John E., Garcia Rainey Blank & Bowerbank, Costa Mesa

Hodges, Ronald S., Goe Forsythe & Hodges, Irvine, 949-798-2460 Pg. S-17

Siddiqui, Omar A., Siddiqui Law, Costa Mesa, 714-384-6650 Pg. S-21

Hueston, John C., Hueston Hennigan, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

Spach, Jr., Madison S., Spach Capaldi & Waggaman, Newport Beach, 949-852-0710 Pg. S-21

Jenkins, Shannon M., Tredway Lumsdaine & Doyle (TLD Law), Irvine

Stephens, John B., Stephens Friedland, Costa Mesa

Johnson, Beverly A., Johnson & Bertram, Mission Viejo

Sugden, David, Call & Jensen, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

Kaplan, Phillip R., Umberg Zipser, Irvine

Theodora, Todd C., Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa Pg. S-6

Kazemi, Nahal, Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-9

Toffer, Jared M., Finlayson Toffer Roosevelt & Lilly, Irvine

Bremer, Keith G., Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara, Newport Beach, 949-221-1000 Pg. S-19

Keller, Jennifer L., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-6, S-9

Brown, Gregory G., Brown & Charbonneau, Irvine

Kessler, Daniel J., Burkhalter Kessler Clement & George, Irvine, 949-975-7500 Pg. S-6

Van Oordt, Javier H., Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2

Buffington, Roger, Buffington Law Firm, Fountain Valley

Kim, John W., Brower Law Group, Laguna Hills

Vincent, Thomas L., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Klein, Gerald A., Klein & Wilson, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

Waldron, Gary A., Weintraub Tobin, Newport Beach

Kraft, Karla J., Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth, Newport Beach

Wegner, Matthew K., Brown Wegner, Irvine

Buus, William L., Schiffer Buus, Costa Mesa Call, Wayne W., Call & Jensen, Newport Beach

Krongold, Steven L., Krongold Law Corp., Irvine

Chairez, Joseph L., Baker & Hostetler, Costa Mesa

Kuo, Hubert H., Ardent Law Group, Newport Beach

Williams, J. Craig, WLC | The Williams Law Corp., Irvine

Burkhalter, Alton G., Burkhalter Kessler Clement & George, Irvine, 949-975-7500 Pg. S-6

Chapman, William, MBK Chapman, Aliso Viejo Chung, Kenneth W., Kring & Chung, Irvine Coleman, Jeffrey A., The Coleman Firm, Newport Beach Connor, Edmond M., Connor Fletcher & Hedenkamp, Irvine Cumming, William, Cumming & Associates, Costa Mesa Daily, Justin E. D., Daily Aljian, Newport Beach

Lawrence, Robert Scott, Lawrence Bartels, Irvine, 949-346-4646 Pg. S-11 LeBoff, Michael S., Klein & Wilson, Newport Beach Libeu, Allison L., Hueston Hennigan, Newport Beach Libman, David E., Law Office of David E. Libman, Santa Ana Lieberman, Scott B., Finlayson Toffer Roosevelt & Lilly, Irvine

D’Arcy, Patrick J., Patrick J. D’Arcy, Irvine

Lilly, Matthew E., Finlayson Toffer Roosevelt & Lilly, Irvine

Darnell, David J., Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2

Livingston, Daniel M., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Daucher, Brian M., Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, Costa Mesa

McFee, Linda C., AIM Law Group, Foothill Ranch Medel, Eric John, Medel Law Group, Irvine

Umberg, Thomas J., Umberg Zipser, Irvine

White, Darrell P., Kimura London & White, Irvine

Williams, Michael R., Bienert Katzman Littrell Williams, San Clemente Yocca, Mark W., The Yocca Law Firm, Irvine Zipser, Dean J., Umberg Zipser, Irvine Pg. S-6

BUSINESS/CORPORATE Adams, Addison K., Adams Corporate Law, Villa Park, 714-415-2297

ADDISON K. ADAMS ADAMS CORPORATE LAW, INC. Villa Park • 714-415-2297

www.adamscorporatelaw.com Amezcua-Moll, Rosemary, Amezcua-Moll & Associates, Orange

Dillion, Gregory L., Newmeyer Dillion, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

Miliband, Joel S., Brown Rudnick, Irvine

Blaine, Stephen E., Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2

Mortenson, Michael D., Mortenson Taggart, Irvine

Calderon, David R., BarthCalderon, Orange

Eisenhut, Mark L., Call & Jensen, Newport Beach

Mower, Jon R., Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa

Geraci, Anthony F., Geraci, Irvine

Farano, Charles, Attorney at Law, Placentia

Nelson, Andrew Ryan, Fortis, Costa Mesa

Kim, John Y., Verve Law Group, La Palma

Fletcher, Matthew J., Connor Fletcher & Hedenkamp, Irvine

Nix, Benjamin A., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Noroski, Laura A., Garcia Rainey Blank & Bowerbank, Costa Mesa, 714-382-7000 Pg. S-21

Ford, Brendan M., Ford & Diulio, Costa Mesa Friedland, Todd G., Stephens Friedland, Costa Mesa Pg. S-6

O’Hare, William S., Snell & Wilmer, Costa Mesa O’Neill, William, Ross Wolcott Teinert & Prout, Costa Mesa Pitha, Martin L., Lillis Pitha, Newport Beach

Gale, Paul L., Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, Irvine

Prenovost, Thomas, Prenovost Normandin Dawe & Rocha, Santa Ana

Gerber, Jonathan L., Miller Miller Gerber, Irvine

Reagan, Carole E., Umberg Zipser, Irvine

Gessin, Jesse, Jesse Gessin, San Clemente

Robinson, Gregory, Robinson & Robinson, Irvine

Graham, Steven T., Snell & Wilmer, Costa Mesa

Robinson, Jeffrey A., Robinson & Robinson, Irvine

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Prietto, Jr., Miguel P., Prietto Law, Irvine Rautiola, Beth K., Palmieri Tyler Wiener Wilhelm & Waldron, Irvine

CIVIL LITIGATION: DEFENSE Abraham, Stephen E., Law Offices of Stephen E. Abraham, Newport Beach CONTINUED ON PAGE S-12

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Ames, Dennis K., LaFollette Johnson DeHaas Fesler & Ames, Santa Ana Ashworth, Mark, Ashworth & Ashworth, Newport Beach Brown, Raymond, The Aguilera Law Group, Laguna Hills Cleeland, Bruce, Haight Brown & Bonesteel, Irvine DeGrave, Douglas M., Poliquin & DeGrave, Laguna Hills

Dorse, Kevin A., Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa Ghassemian, Mahyar, Ghassemian Law Group, Mission Viejo Kaneda, Joseph, Fenton Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt, Irvine Kasdan, Kenneth S., Kasdan LippSmith Weber Turner, Irvine, 949-851-9000 Koeller, Keith D., JAMS, Irvine Kring, Kyle D., Kring & Chung, Irvine Miller, Thomas E., The Miller Law Firm, Newport Beach, 800-403-3332

Fiola, N. Asir, Selman Breitman, Santa Ana Hoting, Shaun A., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-9 McNamara, Ryan M., Call & Jensen, Newport Beach Natelborg, Kenneth, Theodora Oringher, Costa Mesa Scolnick, Chase A., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-9 Spitz, Sherman M., Berger Kahn, Irvine Stephan, Paul E., Selman Breitman, Santa Ana

CIVIL LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF Dennis, Jonathan S., Dennis Law Group, Irvine Young, Steven R., Law Offices of Steven R. Young, Aliso Viejo

THOMAS E. MILLER THE MILLER LAW FIRM Newport Beach • 800-403-3332

www.constructiondefects.com Salamone, Mary A., Procopio Cory Hargreaves & Savitch, Irvine

Beal, Holly C., Selman Breitman, Santa Ana Desai, Aashish Y., Desai Law Firm, Costa Mesa Egley, John T., Call & Jensen, Newport Beach Frank, Jason M., Frank Sims & Stolper, Irvine Karavatos, Karen L., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288 Loewy, Robert G., Law Offices of Robert G. Loewy, Aliso Viejo Nathan, Reuben, Nathan & Associates, Newport Beach Robinson, Daniel S., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288 Pg. S-6 Robinson, Jr., Mark P., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288 Pg. S-6 Rothrock, Frank C., Shook Hardy & Bacon, Irvine Sims, Scott H., Frank Sims & Stolper, Irvine

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI Landry, Virginia L., Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, Laguna Hills Parker Harris, Kellee, Parker Law Center, Huntington Beach Simons, Barry T., Law Offices of Barry T. Simons, Laguna Beach Taylor, Christopher, Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor, Huntington Beach

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR Bass, Diane, Law Office of Diane C. Bass, Irvine

Tomassian, Serge, Tomassian Throckmorton Inouye & Grigorian, Irvine

Bienert, Jr., Thomas H., Bienert Katzman Littrell Williams, San Clemente

Toohey, John H., Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara, Newport Beach, 949-221-1000 Pg. S-19

Corrigan, Kate, Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

Zvonicek, Philip C., Gibbs Giden Locher Turner Senet & Wittbrodt, Irvine

de Bretteville, Jason, Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth, Newport Beach Krieger, Eliot F., SKT Law, Huntington Beach

CONSUMER LAW Kazerounian, Abbas, Kazerouni Law Group, Costa Mesa Pg. S-6

Levine, Joel, Joel Levine, Costa Mesa Littrell, John, Bienert Katzman Littrell Williams, San Clemente Miller, Kenneth, Law Office of Kenneth M. Miller, San Clemente

CRIMINAL DEFENSE Aquilina, John, Attorney at Law, Rancho Santa Margarita Blanco, Meghan A., Law Offices of Meghan Blanco, Laguna Niguel Chambers, Dan E., Chambers Law Firm, Santa Ana Cordova, Ron, Attorney at Law, Irvine, 949-748-3600 Pg. S-20 Earley, Jack M., Law Offices of Jack M. Earley, Irvine Ferrentino, Correen W., Ferrentino & Associates, Newport Beach Fredrick, Mark, Law Offices of Mark W. Fredrick, Newport Beach Harley, Jr., Robison D., Law Office of Robison D. Harley Jr., Santa Ana Huish, Dyke, Law Office of Dyke E. Huish, Mission Viejo Kent, Jeffrey, The Kent Law Firm, Fullerton

CLOSELY HELD BUSINESS

Welbourn, T. Edward, Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, Newport Beach

Throckmorton, Robert, Stone, Newport Beach

CLASS ACTION/MASS TORTS Barba, Luis A., CMBG3 Law, Irvine

Thomas, Scott C., Law Office of Scott C. Thomas, Santa Ana

LaBarbera, Vincent, Law Offices of Vincent J. LaBarbera Jr., Newport Beach

Riddet, James, Bienert Katzman Littrell Williams, San Clemente Wiechert, David W., Wiechert Munk & Goldstein, San Juan Capistrano Wilke, Craig, Law Office of Craig Wilke, Fullerton

ELDER LAW Bell, Melinda, Law Office of Melinda S. Bell, Dana Point Blix, Fay, Law Office of Fay Blix, Laguna Hills Moran, Michael F., Moran Law, Santa Ana Siegel, Travis K., Siegel Law, Tustin Valentine, Kimberly, Valentine Law Group, Mission Viejo Pg. S-6

EMINENT DOMAIN Banker, Anish J., Palmieri Hennessey & Leifer, Irvine Evertz, Douglas J., Murphy & Evertz, Costa Mesa, 714-277-1700 Pg. S-20

Streza, Richard E., Brown & Streza, Irvine

Meyer, Paul S., Law Offices of Paul S. Meyer, Costa Mesa

DOUGLAS J. EVERTZ

CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

Stokke, Allan H., Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, Newport Beach

MURPHY & EVERTZ, LLP Costa Mesa • 714-277-1700

Barker, T. Darren, LaFollette Johnson DeHaas Fesler & Ames, Santa Ana

Swanson, David E., Law Office of David Swanson, Newport Beach

Buck, Richard E., Cooksey Toolen Gage Duffy & Woog, Costa Mesa

Thiagarajah, Fred, Right Choice Law, Newport Beach

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www.murphyevertz.com Hennessey, Patrick A., Palmieri Hennessey & Leifer, Irvine CONTINUED ON PAGE S-14

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 EMINENT DOMAIN CONT’D FROM PAGE S-12

Krolikowski, Charles S., Newmeyer Dillion, Newport Beach

Wong, Samuel A., Aegis Law Firm, Irvine Young-Agriesti, Summer, Klatte Budensiek & Young-Agriesti, Newport Beach

Kuhn, Bradford B., Nossaman, Irvine Leifer, Michael H., Palmieri Hennessey & Leifer, Irvine Murphy, John C., Murphy & Evertz, Costa Mesa, 714-277-1700 Pg. S-21

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE Attal, Avi M., Kahana & Feld, Irvine Ayers, Lindsay A., CDF Labor Law, Irvine

JOHN C. MURPHY MURPHY & EVERTZ, LLP Costa Mesa • 714-277-1700

www.murphyevertz.com Weisberg, Gary C., Woodruff Spradlin & Smart, Costa Mesa

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Boutwell, Sherrie, Boutwell Fay, Irvine

EMPLOYMENT & LABOR Baruch, Joel, Law Offices of Joel W. Baruch, Irvine Brand, Ron, Kahana & Feld, Irvine Brown, Jeffrey K., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Donahoo, Richard E., Donahoo & Associates, Tustin, 714-953-1010

Higgins, Sean K., Law Office of Sean K. Higgins, Seal Beach Kim, Ernest J., Law Offices of Ernest J. Kim, Tustin Lemmons, Phillip C., The Legacy Lawyers, Fountain Valley Mermelstein, F. Edie, FEM Law Group, Huntington Beach

Barritt, Douglas A., Barritt Smith Miner, Irvine

Miliband, Nikki Presley, Good Wildman, Irvine, 949-955-1100 Pg. S-20

Beaumont, Jacqueline, Call & Jensen, Newport Beach

Muntz, Sean D., RMO, Costa Mesa

Cohen, Ellen, Call & Jensen, Newport Beach

Sherak, David, Vogt Resnick Sherak, Newport Beach

DiSante, Marie D., CDF Labor Law, Irvine

Stein, Matthew G., Law & Stein, Irvine

Freudenberger, Timothy M., CDF Labor Law, Irvine Jayakumar, Jehan N., Carlson & Jayakumar, Newport Beach, 949-222-2008 Pg. S-20

ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE

Moss, Jr., James R., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Acosta, Megan S., Acosta Business & Estate Planning, Irvine

Patton, Amy R., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Brown, Matt, Brown & Streza, Irvine Pg. S-6

Pearl, II, Carmine J. (CJ), Pearl Legal, Irvine Trotter, Julie R., Call & Jensen, Newport Beach

Burns, James, The Law Office of James Burns, Aliso Viejo

White, Leigh A., CDF Labor Law, Irvine

Chou, Brian Y., BarthCalderon, Orange

Wulffson, Todd R., CDF Labor Law, Irvine

Daff, Leslie R., Estate Plan, Laguna Beach

Crosby, William M., Law Office of William M. Crosby, Tustin Dieguez, Marcelo A., Diefer Law Group, Irvine

Gostanian, Amy L., Gostanian Law Group, Newport Beach

Doyle, Mark C., Tredway Lumsdaine & Doyle (TLD Law), Irvine

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

Kundani, Lalit, Bridge Law, Anaheim

Beilke, Jared W., JML Law, Anaheim

Leese, James K., Ferruzzo & Ferruzzo, Newport Beach, 949-608-6900 Pg. S-20

Campbell, Darren J., Aitken Campbell Heikaus Weaver, Irvine

Morgan, Darlynn C., Morgan Law Group, Newport Beach

D’Abusco, Matthew, Ares Law Group, Newport Beach

Offenheiser, Michael J., Brown & Streza, Irvine

Garbacz, Greg A., Klinedinst, Irvine Haque, Kashif, Aegis Law Firm, Irvine

Glyer, Leslie J., Leslie Glyer Law, Newport Beach

Jaramillo, Andrew J., Altus Law Firm, Irvine

Kimball, Stephen C., Sessions & Kimball, Mission Viejo

Fakhimi, Houman, Fakhimi & Associates, Newport Beach, 877-529-4545 Fears, Daniel F., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Kading, Theresa A., Kading Briggs, Irvine Kienle, Jenifer L., Kienle Law, San Juan Capistrano

Kwik, Angeline (Angie), Mehr & Associates, Irvine

Knepper, Dawn M., Knepper Law, Irvine

Nguyen, Nicole, Sessions & Kimball, Mission Viejo

Locklear, Tina, Law Offices of Tina Locklear, Irvine

Norman, Ronald, Farnell and Norman, Irvine

May, Bruce D., Stuart Kane, Newport Beach

Pedersen, Neil, Pedersen Law, Westminster

McCortney, Ryan D., Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, Costa Mesa

Shah, Sandeep J., Shah Law Group, Costa Mesa

Miller, Jon G., Littler Mendelson, Irvine

ENVIRONMENTAL

Paris, Andrea W. S., Andrea Paris Law, Newport Beach

Bois, Thomas J., Bois Legal Counsel, Costa Mesa

Payne, James L., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Chen, Patricia J., PC Law Group, Irvine

Sessions, Don, Sessions & Kimball, Mission Viejo Shanberg, Ross E., Shanberg Stafford & Bartz, Newport Beach Sugg, Wendy A., Sugg & Paracuellos, Laguna Beach Walraven, Larry A., Walraven & Westerfeld, Aliso Viejo, 949-215-1991

ENVIRONMENTAL LITIGATION Dupont, Norman A., Ring Bender, Costa Mesa

Roehl, Cynthia, Roehl & Glowacki, Laguna Hills Schaller, Gordon A., Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell, Irvine Tague, Suzanne M., Ross Wolcott Teinert & Prout, Costa Mesa Vollmer, Michael V., Law Office of Michael V. Vollmer, Irvine Weiner, Christine C., Christine C. Weiner, Irvine Wells III, H. Neal, Slovak Baron Empey Murphy & Pinkney, Costa Mesa

FAMILY LAW Bayati, Brian A., Bayati Law Group, Newport Beach, 949-798-5700 Benavente, Robert A., Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente, Irvine Block, Carrie, Holstrom Block & Parke, Newport Beach Bogosian, Matthew R., Holstrom Block & Parke, Newport Beach

ESTATE & TRUST LITIGATION

Brandon, Lisa E., Brandon Law Group, Seal Beach

Wesierski, Christopher P., Wesierski & Zurek, Lake Forest Pg. S-6

Bohm, James G., Bohm Wildish & Matsen, Costa Mesa

Briggs, Steven E., Attorney at Law, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

Wirth, Gabrielle M., Dorsey & Whitney, Costa Mesa

Gokal, Abbas K., Gokal Law Group, Foothill Ranch

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 FAMILY LAW CONT’D FROM PAGE S-14

Burch, Robert, Burch Shepard Family Law Group, Newport Beach, 949-502-4400

Klausner, Andrew, Klausner | Johnson, Irvine Kutinsky, Laurence A., Law Offices of Laurence Kutinsky, Newport Beach

Buttacavoli, Matthew S., Minyard Morris, Newport Beach, 949-724-1111

McNamara, Barbara, The Law Office of Barbara E. McNamara, Huntington Beach

Cowhig, John S., Law Offices of John S. Cowhig, Irvine

Minyard, Mark E., Minyard Morris, Newport Beach, 949-724-1111 Pg. S-6

Curtin, Judi A., Phillips Whisnant Gazin Gorczyca & Curtin, Newport Beach

Morris, Michael A., Minyard Morris, Newport Beach, 949-724-1111 Pg. S-6

Dockstader, Janet, Dockstader Orliczky, Seal Beach, 562-799-5551

Murphy, Ryan Patrick, Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine

Dolnick, Keith E., Law Offices of Keith E. Dolnick, Irvine

Nelson, Paul, Nelson Kirkman, Newport Beach

Eisenberg, Donald S., The Law Office of Donald S. Eisenberg, Seal Beach Fisher, Michael A., Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente, Irvine Gelbart, Saul M., Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente, Irvine Gold, Daniel R., Tredway Lumsdaine & Doyle (TLD Law), Irvine Haapala, Michael J., Des Jardins & Haapala, Orange Hatherley, Douglas A., Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente, Irvine Hittelman, Steven G., Hittelman Family Law Group, Newport Beach Kaufman, Stephen, Kaufman Steinberg, Irvine

Parke, James R., Holstrom Block & Parke, Newport Beach Pg. S-6 Phillips, Ben, Phillips Whisnant Gazin Gorczyca & Curtin, Newport Beach Pg. S-6 Rios, Christi D., Rios & Rios, Irvine Rogers, Dorie A., Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers, Orange Schilling, John R., Attorney at Law, Newport Beach

Seide, Lonnie K., Minyard Morris, Newport Beach, 949-724-1111 Shepard, Courtney L., Burch Shepard Family Law Group, Newport Beach, 949-502-4400 Stegmeier, Eleanor A., Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente, Irvine Steinberg, Jordon P., Kaufman Steinberg, Irvine Strunk, Kerri L., Strunk Loos, Newport Beach Torres, Yolanda V., Law Firm of Yolanda V. Torres, Santa Ana Tovstein, Marc S., Tovstein & Kraetzer, Irvine Tuttle, Thomas W., Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine Pg. S-6 Whisnant, Jacqueline A., Phillips Whisnant Gazin Gorczyca & Curtin, Newport Beach Whyte, Nicole, Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara, Newport Beach, 949-221-1000 Pg. S-6, S-19 Wilkins, Michael, Law Offices of Michael D. Wilkins, Newport Beach, 949-333-3637

FRANCHISE/DEALERSHIP

Schwartz, Jason M., Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente, Irvine

Adams, Kevin A., Mortenson Taggart, Irvine

Seastrom, Brian, Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine Pg. S-6

Mulcahy, James M., Mulcahy, Irvine

Seastrom, Philip G., Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy, Irvine Pg. S-6

Davey, Gerard, Davey Law Corp., Newport Beach

Weldon, Elizabeth M., Snell & Wilmer, Costa Mesa

GENERAL LITIGATION Cahn, Reuben C., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700 Pg. S-9 Garrell, Peter E., Fortis, Costa Mesa Parvaneh, Ali, Madison Law, Irvine Thakur, Pamela Tahim, Thakur Law Firm, Fullerton Thomas, Michael Paul, Law Office of Michael Paul Thomas, Laguna Niguel

HEALTH CARE Barta, Theresa, Barta Law, Newport Beach McMahon, Raymond J., Doyle Schafer McMahon, Irvine

IMMIGRATION Hirson, David, David Hirson & Partners, Costa Mesa Nelson, John C., Nelson & Nunez, Newport Beach Padilla, Annaluisa, Padilla Global Law Group, La Habra Piscopo, Louis, Law Offices of Louis M. Piscopo, Santa Ana Wilner, Richard M., Wilner & O’Reilly, Orange

INSURANCE COVERAGE Aguilera, A. Eric, The Aguilera Law Group, Laguna Hills

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 Smith, Phillip E., Smith Smith & Feeley, Newport Beach

Brown, Jr., William J., Brown Wegner, Irvine Pg. S-6

Smith, Stephen E., Smith Smith & Feeley, Newport Beach

Cordrey, Gregory S., Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell, Irvine

Cohn, Stephan S., Berger Kahn, Irvine

Susolik, Edward, Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2, S-6

Finkelstein, Mark A., Umberg Zipser, Irvine

Collins, Richard T., Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2

Thomas, Scott S., Payne & Fears, Irvine

Lapple, Matthew, Lapple Ubell IP Law, Irvine, 949-756-4889

Arnold, Larry, Cummins & White, Newport Beach Brower, Steven, Brower Law Group, Laguna Hills Cohen, Adrienne D., Law Offices of Adrienne D. Cohen, Santa Ana

De Jong, Jared, Payne & Fears, Irvine Ellison, Michael W., Smith Ellison, Irvine

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Katz, Michael I., Buchalter, Irvine

McBride, Kevin G., Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, Irvine McPhie, David, Irell & Manella, Newport Beach

Ezra, David B., Berger Kahn, Irvine Pg. S-6

Hansen, Scott R., Viking IP Law, Irvine

Feeley, John E., Smith Smith & Feeley, Newport Beach

Heller, Susan L., Greenberg Traurig, Irvine

Rooklidge, William, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, Irvine

Murphey, Matthew D., Murphey & Murphey, Aliso Viejo

Tehranian, John, One, Newport Beach

Ford, Caroline Hurtado, Haynes and Boone, Costa Mesa Gauntlett, David A., Gauntlett & Associates, Irvine

Renfro, Aaron L., Call & Jensen, Newport Beach

Thomas, Jeffrey T., Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, Irvine Tran, John D., Rhema Law Group, Irvine

Henshall, James F., Selman Breitman, Santa Ana

Thompson, Ph.D., Sandra P., Finlayson Toffer Roosevelt & Lilly, Irvine, 949-759-3810

Tripodi, II, Paul D., Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, Irvine

Kent, Ronald D., Dentons, Newport Beach

Tsang, Mei, Umberg Zipser, Irvine

Vakil, Imran F., Nexio Law Firm, Irvine

Lehavi, Limor, Mokri Vanis & Jones, Newport Beach McInnis, Terrence R., Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, Irvine

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

McKennon, Robert J., McKennon Law Group, Newport Beach, 949-387-9595

Armond, Michelle, Armond Wilson, Newport Beach

Menter, Timothy S., Menter & Witkin, Irvine

Berstein, David A., Berstein Law, Newport Beach

Simon, Craig S., Berger Kahn, Irvine Pg. S-6

Brennan, Sterling A., Maschoff Brennan, Irvine

Van den Bosch, Carlo F., Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, Costa Mesa Viscounty, Perry J., Latham & Watkins, Costa Mesa

INTERNATIONAL Fasel, Thomas A., Fasel Law, Newport Beach CONTINUED ON PAGE S-18

Ronald S. Hodges

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 LAND USE/ZONING Rosenthal, Deborah M., FitzGerald Yap Kreditor, Irvine

MEDIA AND ADVERTISING Schumann, Kim, Schumann Rosenberg & Arevalo, Costa Mesa

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS Ivey, Christopher D., Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth, Newport Beach Le Pore, III, Vincent J., Brown & Streza, Irvine Loss, James W., Morgan Lewis & Bockius, Costa Mesa Shulman, Leonard M., Shulman Bastian Friedman & Bui, Irvine Skaist, Mark L., Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth, Newport Beach

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: DEFENSE

Gramling, Kevin J., Klinedinst, Irvine

Cifarelli, Thomas A., Cifarelli Law Firm, Irvine

Mall III, William J., Law Office of William J. Mall III, Fullerton

Cohn, Jason D., Cohn & Swartzon, Santa Ana

Popovich, Jerry C., Selman Breitman, Santa Ana Pg. S-6 Sutton, Michael S., Sutton & Murphy, Mission Viejo

Davis, Allan F., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288 Dubin, Eric J., Dubin Law Firm, Irvine, 949-477-8040 Pg. S-15 Easton, Brian W., Easton & Easton, Costa Mesa, 714-850-4590 Pg. S-5

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF Adams, III, John C., Hunt & Adams, Santa Ana Aitken, Ashleigh E., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Easton, W. Douglas, Easton & Easton, Costa Mesa, 714-850-4590 Pg. S-5 Fasel, Frank, Chris and Frank Accident Attorneys, Costa Mesa Fielding, Clark H., Fielding Law, Irvine

Aitken, Christopher R., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Finaldi, Vince W., Manly Stewart & Finaldi, Irvine, 949-252-9990

Aitken, Wylie A., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Gibson, Robert B., Gibson & Hughes, Santa Ana Pg. S-6

Bahan, Cornelius “Neil”, Cornelius P. Bahan, San Clemente

Greenman, Jeffrey, GreenmanLaw, Aliso Viejo

Bentley, Gregory L., Bentley & More, Newport Beach, 949-870-3800 Pg. S-1, S-6

Guldjian, Christopher A., Chris and Frank Accident Attorneys, Costa Mesa

Brockmeier, John A., Brockmeier Law Group, Irvine Bruno, Angela E., Bruno | Nalu, Irvine Bruno, Keith J., Bruno | Nalu, Irvine

Braun, Jeff I., McNeil Tropp & Braun, Irvine

Caldwell, Brent W., Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell, Huntington Beach

Everett, III, Seymour B., Everett Dorey, Irvine

Carrazco, Jr., Angel, Carrazco Law, Tustin

Habbas, Samer, Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, Irvine Hicks, Aaron, Hicks Law Firm, Costa Mesa Howard, Vincent, Gibson & Hughes, Santa Ana Johnson, Casey R., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana Pg. S-6 Kazerouni, Mohammad R. (Mike), Kazerouni Law Group, Costa Mesa Kimura, Joshua M., Kimura London & White, Irvine Kohan, Nicholas P., Kohan & Bablove, Newport Beach

DAVID C. GRANT

Kubota, Yoshiaki, Kubota & Craig, Irvine Lazarus, Marc, Law Firm of Russell & Lazarus, Newport Beach Ledger, Emery B., The Ledger Law Firm, Newport Beach

GRANT, GENOVESE & BARATTA, LLP

Manly, John, Manly Stewart & Finaldi, Irvine, 949-252-9990

2030 Main St., Suite 1600 Irvine, CA 92614 (949) 660-1600 ggb-law.com

McCormack, Brian J., Callahan & Blaine, Santa Ana, 714-241-4444 Pg. S-2 Medler, John, The Medler Law Firm, Irvine Moore, Thomas M., The Senators (Ret.) Firm, Irvine Morrell, III, Rivers J., Law Firm of Rivers J. Morrell III, Mission Viejo Selected to Super Lawyers

BUSINESS LITIGATION SECURITIES LITIGATION | REAL ESTATE: BUSINESS Dave Grant, a 1972 cum laude and law review editor-in-chief from Loyola University, Los Angeles, and the senior founding partner of Grant, Genovese & Baratta, is one of the premier business and real estate lead trial lawyers in Orange County, California. Grant has successfully prosecuted or defended to verdict or judgment over 120 complex matters in venues ranging from California, to Maine and Texas. In the words of one of Santa Barbara County’s most respected jurists after the successful defense of a business tort jury trial:

Offenhauser, Tyler D., Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara, Newport Beach, 949-221-1000 Pg. S-19 Paoli, William, Paoli & Purdy, Newport Beach Penn, Michael A., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana Pg. S-6 Pirozzi, Darren, Rizio Lipinsky, Santa Ana Rayfield, (Ashley) Taylor, Manly Stewart & Finaldi, Irvine, 949-252-9990 Ritsema, Scott, Bisnar Chase, Newport Beach

“You’re one of the best lawyers . . . your style, your knowledge of the scholarship was wonderful . . . This is a backwater, maybe . . . our cases are filled with out-of-town lawyers, and from big cities and big firms, and . . . you’re right up there at the top of them . . .”

Roberts, Jeffrey, Roberts | Jeandron Law, Newport Beach, 800-441-2756 Pg. S-6, S-13 Robinson, Jeoffrey L., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288 Rosen, Stephen, Rosen Law Offices, Dana Point

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 Sheth, Samir, Shah Law Group, Costa Mesa Sitzer, Andrew D., Sitzer Legal, Santa Ana Stewart, Morgan, Manly Stewart & Finaldi, Irvine, 949-252-9990

Montevideo, John A., DiMarco | Araujo | Montevideo, Santa Ana, 714-835-6990 Pg. S-16 West, Michelle M., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288 Pg. S-6

Strongin, Eric, Strongin | Burger, Ladera Ranch Tannenbaum, Oz, Cohn & Swartzon, Santa Ana Torkzadeh, Reza, TorkLaw, Irvine

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: DEFENSE Garner, Scott B., Umberg Zipser, Irvine Pg. S-6

Traut, Eric V., Traut Firm, Santa Ana Upton, John H., Morey & Upton, Costa Mesa Wacker, Ted B., Law Offices of Ted B. Wacker, Newport Beach

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: PLAINTIFF Traut, James R., Traut Firm, Santa Ana, 714-835-7000 Pg. S-21

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: DEFENSE McKenna, III, Robert L., Kjar McKenna & Stockalper, Huntington Beach

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

Wilson, Mark B., Klein & Wilson, Newport Beach Pg. S-6

REAL ESTATE Baker, Jr., William E., Baker & Baker, Santa Ana, 714-558-4832 Brackmann, Eve, Stuart Kane, Newport Beach

Brown, Alan C., Day Day & Brown, Tustin

Burris, Jason R., Burris Law, Orange

Burke, Sean M., Burke | Argos, Irvine Pg. S-6

Corfield, Michael, Corfield Feld, San Juan Capistrano

Cohn, Richard A., Aitken • Aitken • Cohn, Santa Ana

Grushkin, Josh C., Stuart Kane, Newport Beach

Hodes, Daniel Martin, Hodes Milman Ikuta, Irvine Pg. S-6

Gutierrez, Javier F., Stuart Kane, Newport Beach

Milman, Jeffrey A., Hodes Milman Ikuta, Irvine Pg. S-6

Hensley, W. Michael, AlvaradoSmith, Santa Ana

Silberberg, Marshall, The Law Office of Marshall Silberberg, Irvine, 949-718-0960

MARSHALL SILBERBERG THE LAW OFFICE OF MARSHALL SILBERBERG Irvine • 949-718-0960

www.silberberglaw.com Walkon, Craig, Walkon Law Firm, San Juan Capistrano

Hardwick, Craig D., AlvaradoSmith, Santa Ana

Janecek, Jon J., Newmeyer Dillion, Newport Beach Lee, Gloria J., Rutan & Tucker, Irvine McFarlin, Timothy, McFarlin, Irvine McKitterick, Gary S., Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis, Irvine Ross, Barry A., Law Office of Barry A. Ross, Laguna Hills Stroffe, Jennifer V., FSG, Irvine Stuart, Bruce C., Stuart Kane, Newport Beach

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: DEFENSE Calareso, Christine D., CMBG3 Law, Irvine McNulty, Elizabeth V., Evans Fears & Schuttert, Newport Beach

Taylor, Corey, Law Office of Corey E. Taylor, San Clemente, 949-429-3481 Pg. S-21 Ulwelling, James K., Ulwelling Law, Costa Mesa

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Smith, Ruben A., AlvaradoSmith, Santa Ana

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF SECURITIES & CORPORATE FINANCE Ammirato, Vincent A., Ammirato Legal, Aliso Viejo Calcagnie, Kevin F., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288

Feuchter, Bruce, Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth, Newport Beach

Chase, Brian, Bisnar Chase, Newport Beach Gonter, Jr., K. Robert, Gates Gonter Guy Proudfoot & Muench, Irvine

SECURITIES LITIGATION

Lopez, Ramon Rossi, Lopez McHugh, Aliso Viejo

Bartels, David T., Lawrence Bartels, Irvine, 949-346-4646 Pg. S-11

Lukei, Shannon M., Robinson Calcagnie, Newport Beach, 949-720-1288

Johnson, Michele D., Latham & Watkins, Costa Mesa

Michaels, Jonathan, MLG, Costa Mesa

CONTINUED ON PAGE S-20

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 SECURITIES LITIGATION CONT’D FROM PAGE S-19

McGrath, Christopher H., Paul Hastings, Costa Mesa Privette, Howard M., Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, Irvine Schneider, Marc J., Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth, Newport Beach Taggart, Craig A., Mortenson Taggart, Irvine Young, Meryl L., Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, Irvine

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY Aghai, Sima, Law Offices of Sima G. Aghai, Westminster

STATE, LOCAL & MUNICIPAL

SORTED ALPHABETICALLY Selected to Super Lawyers

Selected to Super Lawyers

RON CORDOVA

ROBERT W. DYESS, JR.

RON CORDOVA, ATTORNEY AT LAW

GOOD WILDMAN

16520 Bake Parkway Suite 280 Irvine, CA 92618 Tel: 949-748-3600 Fax: 949-748-3888 roncordova@roncordovalaw.com www.roncordovalaw.com

19000 MacArthur Boulevard Suite 575 Irvine, CA 92612 Tel: 949-955-1100 Fax: 949-833-0633 rwdyess@dyesslaw.com www.goodwildman.com

CRIMINAL DEFENSE CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

TAX REAL ESTATE BUSINESS/CORPORATE

Ron Cordova is a former California state legislator and Orange County deputy district attorney who has represented clients in 37 states and the District of Columbia as well as several foreign countries. Ron combines experience, skill and integrity with aggressive representation to obtain outstanding results in the most difficult cases. He is knowledgeable, compassionate and accessible, handling every client’s matter personally. Ron is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in California and federal courts in Arizona, Colorado, Michigan and Texas.

Recognized by OC Metro Magazine every year since 2009 as one of Orange County’s best criminal defense attorneys, Ron has tried more than 150 cases throughout the U.S. and makes his 14th appearance on the Southern California Super Lawyers list.

Robert W. Dyess, Jr. is a tax attorney specializing in business and real estate transactions and estate planning. His business and real estate practice includes company formations, acquisitions, mergers, reorganizations, and liquidations; real estate purchases, sales, exchanges, syndications, financings, workouts, and property tax matters for all types of investment real property, and asset protection planning. His estate planning practice includes tax planning through the use of wills, trusts, family limited partnerships, business reorganizations, and private foundations, and the administration of trusts and estates for decedents. Mr. Dyess is certified as a tax specialist by the California Board of Legal Specialization of the State Bar of California.

Aleshire, David J., Aleshire & Wynder, Irvine Selected to Super Lawyers

Munoz, A. Patrick, Rutan & Tucker, Irvine

SURETY Niesley, Robert C., Watt Tieder Hoffar & Fitzgerald, Irvine

TAX Dyess, Jr., Robert W., Good Wildman, Irvine, 949-955-1100 Pg. S-20 Keligian, David L., Brown & Streza, Irvine Nelson, Lisa O., Law Office of A. Lavar Taylor, Santa Ana Taylor, A. Lavar, Law Office of A. Lavar Taylor, Santa Ana

JEHAN N. JAYAKUMAR

MURPHY & EVERTZ, LLP

CARLSON & JAYAKUMAR LLP

650 Town Center Drive Suite 550 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Tel: 714-277-1700 Fax: 714-277-1777 devertz@murphyevertz.com www.murphyevertz.com

2424 Southeast Bristol Street Suite 300 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: 949-222-2008 Fax: 949-222-2012 jehan@cjattorneys.com www.cjattorneys.com

EMINENT DOMAIN LAND USE/ZONING

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE

Douglas J. Evertz has compiled a remarkable record of litigation successes. He specializes in complex real estate litigation matters including eminent domain, inverse condemnation, land use, CEQA, and water matters. Over his career, Mr. Evertz has represented a number of cities, counties, water districts and school districts in connection with major public agency acquisitions/public works projects. He also represents a number of commercial and industrial property owners in lawsuits throughout the state. Clients include Fortune 500 companies, major developers and high-net-worth individuals.

Jehan N. Jayakumar is a founding partner with the law firm of Carlson & Jayakumar LLP, where he practices all aspects of employment law and related litigation. He has extensive experience representing businesses in matters involving discrimination, harassment, wage and hour claims, wrongful termination, business disputes, and representation before administrative agencies. Mr. Jayakumar also regularly advises clients on contractual matters affecting employee classification and compensation. Mr. Jayakumar is a member of the Orange County Bar Association, Labor and Employment Section. He received his J.D. from the University of California, Davis, School of Law, and his B.A. from the University of California, Irvine.

Wilson, Joseph P., Wilson Tax Law Group, Newport Beach Selected to Super Lawyers

JAMES K. LEESE

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION Gonzalez, Jose, Bentley & More, Newport Beach, 949-870-3800 Pg. S-1 Ly, Geraldine, Law Office of Geraldine Ly, Santa Ana, 714-442-9998 Pg. S-6 More, Keith P., Bentley & More, Newport Beach, 949-870-3800 Pg. S-1, S-6 Stoody, Amy Menkes, Stoody & Mills, Irvine, 949-223-9876

AMY MENKES STOODY STOODY & MILLS Irvine • 949-223-9876

www.smdcomp.com Vargas, Sean C., The Law Offices of Steven A. Meline, Santa Ana

S-20

SUPERLAWYERS.COM

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Selected to Super Lawyers

DOUGLAS J. EVERTZ

FERRUZZO & FERRUZZO, LLP

Selected to Super Lawyers

NIKKI PRESLEY MILIBAND

3737 Birch Street Suite 400 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: 949-608-6900 Fax: 949-608-6994 jleese@ferruzzo.com www.ferruzzo.com

GOOD WILDMAN

ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE

ESTATE & TRUST LITIGATION BUSINESS/CORPORATE ELDER LAW

Jim Leese is a partner in the law firm of Ferruzzo & Ferruzzo, LLP. He is a California Bar Certified Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law Specialist. He is the practice group leader for the firm’s estate and business succession planning departments and limits his practice to matters involving estate and gift tax planning and preparation of trusts and wills for individuals and owners of businesses. Mr. Leese taught the fundamentals of estate planning and advanced estate planning courses in the personal financial planning certificate program at the University of California, Irvine Continuing Education for 25 years and contributes to texts and writes articles on estate planning.

Nikki Presley Miliband has over 30 years of experience successfully representing parties throughout California in trust, estate, conservatorship and financial elder abuse litigation, and in the administration of trusts and estates. Ms. Miliband is a skilled litigator who quickly analyzes and then implements a strategy to solve the most difficult of problems. Ms. Miliband is licensed to practice law in California and Oklahoma. Active in the legal community, Ms. Miliband served as 2018 President of the Orange County Bar Association, having served on the Board of Directors since 2011. She also served as President of the Orange County Bar Association Charitable Fund in 2019, and has served on its Board of Directors since 2008.

19000 MacArthur Boulevard Suite 575 Irvine, CA 92612 Tel: 949-955-1100 Fax: 949-833-0633 nmiliband@goodwildman.com www.goodwildman.com

ATTORNEYS SELECTED TO SUPER LAWYERS AND RISING STARS WERE CHOSEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROCESS ON PAGE S-4.

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SP E C IAL ADV E RT ISIN G SE C T ION

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022

SORTED ALPHABETICALLY Selected to Super Lawyers

Selected to Super Lawyers

Selected to Super Lawyers

JOHN C. MURPHY

LAURA A. NOROSKI

JOHN S. PETERSON

MURPHY & EVERTZ, LLP

GARCIA RAINEY BLANK & BOWERBANK LLP

PETERSON LAW GROUP PC

650 Town Center Drive Suite 550 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Tel: 714-277-1700 Fax: 714-277-1777 jmurphy@murphyevertz.com www.murphyevertz.com

633 West Fifth Street 26th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 Tel: 213-236-9720 Fax: 213-236-9724 jsp@petersonlawgroup.com www.petersonlawgroup.com

695 Town Center Drive Suite 700 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Tel: 714-382-7000 Fax: 714-784-0031 lnoroski@garciarainey.com www.garciarainey.com

EMINENT DOMAIN LAND USE/ZONING REAL ESTATE

BUSINESS/CORPORATE BUSINESS LITIGATION REAL ESTATE

EMINENT DOMAIN LAND USE/ZONING REAL ESTATE

John C. Murphy, and Murphy & Evertz, LLP, have earned their clients eminent domain awards totaling well over $300 million over the past eight years. Mr. Murphy lectures and writes frequently on eminent domain trial tactics and is contributing author to both national (ABA) and state (CEB) legal practice guides. He has repeatedly been recognized in The Best Lawyers of America (16 consecutive years); named to the Super Lawyers list (16 years); earned recognition on the Orange County Top 50 list in Southern California Super Lawyers; and co-chairs the annual Southern California CLE International eminent domain conference. He represents many of the most prominent agencies, corporations and landowners in the state.

Laura Noroski, partner, represents a wide range of clients in transactional matters, from multi-national corporations to entrepreneurs. She helps clients achieve their objectives quickly while analyzing broader legal and business concerns.

Ms. Noroski’s background experience litigating an array of disputes in state and federal courts enables her to provide her clients with efficient and practical results. Ms. Noroski holds a degree in economics with honors from UCLA. She earned her law degree and served as an editor of the Law Review at USC’s Gould School of Law, where she recently taught the course, Mergers & Acquisitions, as an adjunct professor.

John S. Peterson and Peterson Law Group PC represent California real property and business owners in eminent domain, inverse condemnation, CEQA and land use litigation, and landslide and subsidence litigation. Clients range from local owners and businesses to publicly traded corporations.

Peterson has achieved numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements and embraces creativity and pragmatism in problem solving. Peterson is recognized in Super Lawyers Magazine and The Best Lawyers in America and named Best Lawyers 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law in Los Angeles. He is rated AV Preeminent

by Martindale-Hubbell. Also with offices at 19800 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 290, Irvine, CA 92612. Tel: 949-955-0127.

Selected to Super Lawyers

Selected to Super Lawyers

Selected to Super Lawyers

JOE ROSE

OMAR A. SIDDIQUI

MADISON S. SPACH, JR.

ROSE LAW APC

SIDDIQUI LAW APC

2625 Townsgate Road Suite 330 Westlake Village, CA 91361 Tel: 805-512-9510 Fax: 805-321-6700 joe@joeroselaw.com www.joeroselaw.com

695 Town Center Drive Park Tower, Suite 700 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Tel: 714-384-6650 Fax: 714-384-6651 osiddiqui@sidlawpc.com www.sidlawpc.com

SPACH, CAPALDI & WAGGAMAN, LLP

EMPLOYMENT & LABOR ADMINISTRATIVE LAW

BUSINESS LITIGATION GENERAL LITIGATION INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

BUSINESS LITIGATION CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

Joe Rose is an employment lawyer in California who started his legal career in 2001 after a successful public service career as a firefighter and paramedic. In 2004, he founded his own law practice and has represented literally thousands of laborers, trades and crafts workers, licensed professionals, labor organizations, and small business employers in all industries throughout California’s public and private sectors. Joe handles cases involving unpaid wages and overtime, unlawful discrimination or workplace harassment, wrongful termination, administrative defense of licensed professionals, trade secrets, employment and civil litigation, workplace investigations, and white-collar criminal cases. Joe has recovered millions for California workers, and successfully defended tough cases.

High-profile trial lawyer, engineer, and former U.S. Congressional Candidate (CA48), Omar A. Siddiqui is managing partner at Siddiqui Law APC. Mr. Siddiqui and his high-profile cases consistently appear in prominent media circuits including television, radio, and newspapers. A powerful courtroom advocate, Mr. Siddiqui’s practice includes civil and business litigation in state and federal courts throughout the country.

He obtained a Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School and holds Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in Engineering from USC. From simple transactions to complex high-stakes litigation to working with the FBI and the CIA, he is known for his innovative solutions, investigations, and case strategies. Trial Lawyer + Engineer + Scientist = Problem Solver.

Madison S. Spach Jr., Esq. is a partner of Spach, Capaldi & Waggaman, LLP. He received his J.D. degree from the Duke University School of Law in 1980. He has extensive experience handling complex, often multi-forum, business litigation matters involving contract and interactive entertainment/new media assets, as well as real estate matters focusing on land use and construction issues. He has tried or arbitrated a large number of business disputes and handled an extensive number of appeals. In 2019, Mr. Spach was named to a special advisory committee for the Department of Commerce focusing on International trade finance. He is a frequent speaker on technology developments and electronic discovery.

4675 MacArthur Court Suite 550 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: 949-852-0710 Fax: 949-852-0714 madison.spach@gmail.com www.scwlaw.us

Selected to Super Lawyers

Where do I start my search for an attorney?

The Super Lawyers® list is comprised of the top 5% of attorneys in each state selected via a patented process that includes independent research, peer nominations, and evaluation.

The answer is SuperLawyers.com

© 2020 Thomson Reuters TR1229162/09-20

Selected to Super Lawyers

COREY TAYLOR

JAMES R. TRAUT

LAW OFFICE OF COREY E. TAYLOR

TRAUT FIRM 5 Hutton Centre Drive Suite 700 Santa Ana, CA 92707 Tel: 714-835-7000 Fax: 714-835-5900 james@trautfirm.com www.trautfirm.com

629 Camino De Los Mares Suite 305 San Clemente, CA 92673 Tel: 949-429-3481 Fax: 949-271-2704 corey@taylorlawoc.com www.taylorlawoc.com REAL ESTATE BUSINESS LITIGATION LAND USE/ZONING

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: PLAINTIFF PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

The Law Office of Corey E. Taylor focuses on the efficient and productive representation of commercial landowners, property managers, and real estate investors in both litigation and transactions. Founder Corey E. Taylor has over 25 years of experience of ethical and zealous representation of real estate owners, real estate professionals, and small business owners.

The firm has successfully resolved a myriad of unlawful detainer actions, breach of lease disputes, buy/sell disputes, land use disputes, foreclosures, receiverships, and other related matters throughout all of California, whether via trial, alternative dispute resolution, or settlement. The firm also negotiates and drafts lease agreements and represents buyers, sellers, and borrowers in purchase and sale transactions.

Jim founded the Traut Firm in 1978, which is ranked Tier 1 “Best Law Firms” by U.S. News – Best Lawyers for the past six years.

He represents plaintiffs in legal malpractice litigation and has been lead counsel in more than 200 jury trials. Jim has achieved over 100 six- and seven-figure verdicts and awards and is one of less than 100 National Board of Trial Advocacy Certified Specialists in California. He has been recognized as O.C. ABOTA Trial Lawyer of the Year, and Orange County Trial Lawyers Association Trial Lawyer of the Year. Jim has been selected to Super Lawyers annually for 17 years, is rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, is named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association, and selected to The Best Lawyers in America. He is also an ABOTA Diplomat.

SUPER LAWYERS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / ORANGE COUNTY 2022

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O F

I N T E R E S T

EXPRESS YOURSELF

Abby Longo is the owner of The Sweet Hand in Ladera Ranch, a new dessert-decorating studio that also offers classes in American Sign Language. by Astgik Khatchatryan

How did you think of this concept?

I used to own a paint-your-own pottery studio in Philadelphia, but we had to sell it when we moved to Ladera Ranch. One of my daughters studies culinary arts at Orange County School of the Arts, and she loves baking. She watches all the baking shows. And we are in such a cute area with lots of children and families. So I decided to set up the shop.

What is the experience like?

We offer a hands-on experience—a chance to put the phones away and bond with friends and family. You can walk in and decorate cookies, cupcakes, or cakes. All the

128 ORA NGE CO AST • February 2022

supplies are provided. We also host parties, we do special decorating classes, and we have take-home kits as well.

will be a problem. But with just a little bit of creativity, you can hire a real gem of a person who is totally talented.

Where does American Sign Language come into play?

We have ASL classes here for kids and adults. We also do ASL story time. And free courses for parents of Deaf children. I’m Deaf, and although some people think of it as a disability, it’s really a language and a culture. This is a great way to expose kids and adults to another culture. We also have a lot of Deaf and hard-of-hearing employees. It’s often difficult for Deaf people to find jobs because people think it

What have been the kids’ reactions?

They love to share words they know in ASL or how to sign their name. They ask the best questions. And they’re so creative with the decorations. I love posting their creations on our Instagram!

CHECK IT O UT!

25642 Crown Valley Parkway, Ladera Ranch, 949-339-3477

photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

Vol. 48 Issue 2 ORANGE COAST (ISSN 02790483 and USPS 360-630) and ORANGECOAST.COM are published monthly by Orange Coast Magazine LLC, 10100 Venice Blvd., Suite 213, Culver City, CA 90232. 949-862-1133. Copyright 2022 by Orange Coast Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photographs must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Periodical U.S. postage paid at Los Angeles, CA and additional entry offices. Subscription rates in continental U.S. $19.95 for 12 months.

Canada, one year only $81; international, one year only $111. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orange Coast, 1965 E. Avis Drive, Madison Heights, MI 48071. If the Postal Service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

P E R S O N

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