Orange Coast Magazine - February 2023

 OUR DEFENSE AGAINST DROUGHT

 HOW WATER WORKS IN ORANGE COUNTY

TIPS FOR A WATER - WISE GARDEN

WORLD - CLASS FACILITIES RIGHT HERE

Models used for illustrative purposes.

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OF HOPE ORANGE COUNTY’S PREVENTION AND EARLY DETECTION PROGRAM TRANSFORMS APPROACH TO CANCER CARE

The best way to treat cancer is to prevent it in the first place. City of Hope Orange County is making groundbreaking strides in cancer prevention and early detection that are changing the understanding of the highly complex disease.

Internationally renowned researcher Cristian Tomasetti, PhD, Director of the Center for Cancer Prevention and Early Detection at City of Hope, has made prevention and early detection his life’s work.

Patients at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — Orange County’s most advanced comprehensive cancer center — have access to programs that identify people and families with elevated risk using genetic risk assessments, biomarker panels and environmental surveys to help manage that risk.

The cancer center also offers screenings using the most sophisticated imaging technologies available, including mammography and colonoscopy to find cancer early, when it is easily curable.

About 1.9 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in the United States in 2022 —

and 38% of all cancers can be prevented. Tomasetti is leading the effort for the early detection of cancer through a simple blood test. His lab has led the effort to develop algorithms for the early detection of cancer using machine learning and statistical analysis.

What does this mean for you? Our experts can offer the best possible early cancer detection and give you an accurate and actionable evaluation of your cancer risk. If it is determined that you are at risk, we can help you take steps to help lower the odds of ever developing cancer.

“You can think of cancer as a mathematical model,” Tomasetti said. “The better we understand that model, the better we understand cancer and the better we can fight it.”

Patients at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center receive fully integrated, multidisciplinary cancer care — from prevention through survivorship — in one convenient location where every staff member is solely focused on treating and curing cancer.

888-333-HOPE (4673) | CityofHope.org/OC

About 1.9 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in the United States in 2022 — and 38% of all cancers can be prevented.

CITY

Cristian Tomasetti , Ph.D.

FEBRUARY

68

H2OC

How does water work in Orange County? We plunge into a fascinating and complex story involving large-scale innovation, world-class systems, and more.

82

SNAPSHOT

Michelle Pierce took ownership of Lido Village Books just as the pandemic was taking hold. Now, months a er relocating the shop, she’s focused on building a vibrant community of book lovers here.

by Robin Jones

84

TOP DENTISTS 2023

These 220 dental professionals have been chosen by their peers as some of the best in O.C.

“Orange County has been a real pioneer in the reuse of wastewater and the replenishment of our groundwater basin. (It’s been) a striking success and one we often look to as how you can do these things right.”

DAVID FELDMAN

UC IRVINE PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF WATER UCI

Photograph by Andrew Hart

photograph by

Chef Michael Rossi visits Cathy Thomas’ kitchen to work his culinary magic on steak. orangecoast.com

Check out the places in Orange County celebrating Mardi Gras this month. orangecoast.com

2. orangecoast.com

Our travel destination this month is Beaver Creek, Colorado, a fabulous mountain escape in any season (Page 24). A Denver native, I spent plenty of time in the mountains of Colorado growing up. Our family went on hiking daytrips, and I learned to ski at age 10, taking the train from Union Station to Winter Park every Saturday as part of a ski school. When it was time for college, though, I was eager for something di erent. I headed west and stayed here.

Colorado has lovely aspects—fantastic parks and the mountains—but as I write this, the actual temperature in Denver is 15 degrees BELOW zero. I certainly don’t miss that! Nothing beats the delightful climate of Southern California and, of course, the ocean. After living and/or working in Orange County for more than two decades, I’ve discovered there’s much more to love here. The spirit of innovation and adventure, the sense of community and generosity, and the brainstorming that has always been part of the culture here continue to amaze me. Case in point: The Groundwater Replenishment System—which was conceived in the mid1990s and completes its fi nal expansion this winter—will provide water for 1 million O.C. residents (Page 70). Folks ahead of their time saw a need, despite naysayers and enormous risk, and now we’re reaping the benefits. You’ll learn about this and many other water companies and systems that serve our area in this month’s cover story. You’ll also fi nd tips about planting a water-friendly garden and smarter ways to use water at home.

Enjoy this time of year, when we can cherish our temperate weather, get a jump on spring planting, and savor the rainstorms every time they arrive, as February is usually the wettest month of the year in O.C.

MS. ALAN GIBBONS EDITOR - IN - CHIEF AGIBBONS @ ORANGECOAST.COM

I can’t wait to see Shannon Cochran and her castmates take on two plays at once at South Coast Repertory this month.

PAGE 26

MY FAVORITE THINGS IN THIS ISSUE

Cherry and almond together? The body potions on our Style & Home opener are right in my wheelhouse.

PAGE 35

I had to be talked into trying the delicious escargot ebelskivers at Populaire. Now I’m a huge fan.

PAGE 60

DJ Allie Rockk has the perfect outlook and what sounds like a great range of music.

PAGE 128

I want to help coach individuals and business owners to nancial independence the same way I was coached on the court, through instruction and preparation.”

I understand that this industry does not have very many people who look like us, which has only motivated me to be the best representative that I can be.”

CAMERON JACKSON and VICTOR NWABA have been building successful nancial practices over the past four years at Modern Woodmen of America, serving their members throughout the Southern California market.

As former collegiate basketball players, Victor and Cameron understand the importance of teamwork to achieve a common goal. By using the same principles that made them successful on the court, they have been able to help their members achieve their nancial goals and support their philanthropic endeavors.

When Victor was asked why he chose to work in the nancial services industry, he said, “I want to help coach individuals and business owners to nancial independence the same way I was coached on the court, through instruction and preparation.” Another side of the business that is impactful to Victor is the opportunity to leverage his passion for basketball to support the community, like the time he partnered with HelpCureHD to put on the 2022 celebrity basketball game that raised over $80,000.

Both representatives work hard to make an impact in the nancial success of their members but also to support their communities and give resources to those who do not have access to nancial education. When asked about what inspires him, Cameron said, “I understand that this industry does not have very many people who look like us, which has only motivated me to be the best representative that I can be.”

With each member that they serve, the two believe their platform as nancial representatives gives them the chance to make change beyond nancial planning, both now and for future generations.

— Cameron Jackson MODERN WOODMEN OF AMERICA

— Victor Nwaba MODERN WOODMEN OF AMERICA

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Sip and Savor

Nothing sparks conversation quite like great food and drink – both of which are best enjoyed with good friends. Plan to join us for this spectacular culinary experience featuring a roster of celebrity and local chefs, the James Beard Gourmet Four-Course Luncheon, Curtis Stone Dinner, Saturday and Sunday Grand Tastings, Sunday Brunch, Celebrity Chef Reception, cooking demonstrations, book signings, and so much more!

palmdesertfoodandwine.com

GALE GAND

ZAC YOUNG

JAMIE GWEN

TYLER FLORENCE

AARTI SEQUEIRA FABIO VIVIANI CURTIS STONE

GLYNIS ALBRIGHT YOLANDA GAMPP AFRIM PRISTINE LISA DAHL

PEOPLE PLACES

IN PLAIN SIGHT

Ú WHAT YOU ’ LL SEE Coastal redwoods at Carbon Canyon Regional Park, the only grove of redwoods in Southern California Ú GETTING THERE Park in the southernmost lot for a fee and follow the marked trail.

Ú EXPLORER CREDIT Christine Anne Ho @christineanneho Ú BEHIND THE SHOT “It was my first time ever here, and I was curious to see it after my friends recommended it for a hike and photo shoot spot. We went together, and it was a wonderful experience!”

N, 117.8370° W

FRESH AND FUN

New food options join old favorites to elevate this neighborhood in LAKE FOREST. by Robin Jones

 GOOD TO KNOW Comic Quest, which first opened its doors in 1981, moved down the street last year to a bigger space.

LA LLORONA BIRRIA & MARISCOS

As the name suggests, birria and seafood dominate the menu here—the former in burritos, tortas, and tacos, or simply with rice, beans, and handmade tortillas ($13 to $20), and the latter doused in spicy a la diabla sauce, cooked al mojo de ajo style, and breaded or grilled. Consider dining in: The murals on the walls, rendered in glow-in-the-dark paint and illuminated with black light, are worth seeing. 23615 EL TORO ROAD, 949-446-4432

ISLAND PACIFIC SEAFOOD MARKET

Orange County fans of the Filipino supermarket no longer have to drive to Long Beach to fill their kitchens with coffee, candy, and condiments from the Philippines. Opened in September 2022, this store offers pantry staples, but also all kinds of fresh and frozen items you won’t find in a typical grocery store: rice paper, frozen ube, fresh banana leaves, and every kind of pepper you can imagine. 23811 EL TORO ROAD, 949-317-0863

COMIC QUEST

Sure, there’s a whole room full of brand-new and older comics at this spot, a longtime favorite of comic book fans. But there’s also a huge selection of board games and collectible card decks, graphic novels, and Reaper, Bones, and Dungeons & Dragons miniatures. The dedicated game room hosts D&D every Wednesday night; Magic: The Gathering card games every Friday night; weekend Warhammer tournaments; and monthly comic book club meetings. 23811 BRIDGER, 949-951-9668

BYE BYE SUGAR BAKERY

The bakery case at this locally owned shop is a sweet dream for anyone trying to cut back on sugar: All of the treats are sugar-free and low carb, made with whole-wheat flour and xylitol. Favorites include chocolate eclairs, cupcakes, tiramisu, individualsize chocolate cakes, fruit turnovers, and chocolate chip cookies. Full-size cakes in flavors such as German chocolate and coconut are available for preorder. 23635 EL TORO ROAD, 949-707-5582

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BEAVER CREEK, COLORADO

Intimate and welcoming, this resort town surprises with its elegance. by Alan Gibbons

Run by the same parent company as Vail, Beaver Creek is a slightly smaller and more accessible alternative with elevations just as high. Lighter crowds make it simple to navigate, and helpful folks are in large supply, providing warm encounters. Surprising activities abound, no matter the season. Of course, there’s an enormous mountain waiting to be conquered—the summit is 11,440 feet—but visitors can also stroll through the village, tuck in for gourmet meals, and see worldclass performers in an intimate setting.

POWDER PARTY

The draw to Beaver Creek is the mountain, which has 167 trails, 24 lifts, three base areas, and about 325 inches of snow annually. It’s a good resort for the whole family, as there are plenty of options for beginning and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. It’s less famous than Vail, but that probably means shorter lift lines (lift tickets are $208 in advance for one day; discounts apply for multiple days and for seniors). Options for ski-in, ski-out lodging are plentiful here.

SHORT COMMUTE

The Pines Lodge, with ski-in access, makes for a rustic yet luxurious stay, a short walk from Beaver Creek Village. The heated outdoor pool and hot tub offer a relaxing respite at the end of a day on the mountain. The free local shuttle provides an easy way to get around if you’d rather not walk. Rooms are spacious and cozy, with balconies to marvel at the views and marble baths in some rooms ($361 and up).

Beaver Creek Village offers shopping, cafes, skating, and more.

ELEVATED DINING

For an unforgettable dinner experience, take a sleigh ride through fields of aspen trees to a serene meadow to dine at Beano’s Cabin restaurant. (In the summertime, add to your adventure with a horseback ride.) Relax in the rustic and elegant surroundings next to a fireplace, open kitchen, and large windows to take in the sights and perhaps a few animals scurrying by. Staff is welcoming and knowledgeable. The five-course meal ($179 per person) includes Colorado-inspired dishes such as bison tartare, Alamosa-striped bass crudo, and elk tomahawk with coffee parsnip puree and cherry wild boar demi-glace. Dessert might seem a bridge too far after four exquisite courses, but you’ll be lured by the black plum tart or copper pot cobbler.

SUMMER FUN

A year-round destination, Beaver Creek has summer activities that will appeal to travelers of all ages

and interests. The mountain beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 62 miles of hiking trails and a 3,000foot elevation gain. There are also nearly 50 miles of mountain bike trails, three golf course, wine excursions, and horseback rides. Get a head start with a ride on the chair lift ($23 and up), or stay at the base where the adventure center isn’t just for kids: A bungee trampoline, climbing wall, miniature golf, and more tickle the youthful spirit in all of us ($18 and up).

VILLAGE VIEW

The shopping opportunities at Beaver Creek Village are varied and many. Meander through beautiful pathways next to a stream while you peruse fashion and jewelry shops, sports stores, local offerings for tourists, art galleries, and more. The ice rink in the center is a good meeting spot, with activities all year—skating in the winter, yoga in the summer. There are plenty of cafes and ice cream shops to replenish after a long day of fun.

BREATHTAKING BITES

Grouse Mountain Grill at The Pines Lodge has been awarded AAA’s four-diamond rating for 26 years. Don’t skip the hand-rolled tater tots with herb-roasted garlic aioli ($14) before diving into a pretzel-crusted pork chop with polenta cake and haricot verts ($59). Sit indoors and take in the gorgeous mountain view through floor-to-ceiling windows. In warmer months, the outdoor balcony makes a lovely option for dining in the Rocky Mountain air.

TIME FOR A SHOW

There’s no reason to miss out on performing arts while on vacation. Vilar Performing Arts Center—a small theater with big names—sits right in the center of Beaver Creek Village. The 530-seat venue provides an intimate atmosphere. The Branford Marsalis Quartet, Peking Acrobats, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy are a just few of the scheduled performers this month.

LEFT: Summertime means great views and a chance for many adventures, including bungee trampolining.

RIGHT: Beautiful dishes, like this summer dessert, are part of what make the meal at Beano’s Cabin unforgettable.

BUNGEE PHOTOGRAPH BY ALAN GIBBONS; DESSERT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BEAVER CREEK RESORT

TIP FROM A LOCAL

“What I love about Beaver Creek is that it’s just as good in the summer and winter. Different aspects, but beautiful all year.”

JESS ROTH, DENVER NATIVE WHO LEARNED TO SKI AT AGE 2 AND LATER MOVED TO BEAVER CREEK

Feb. 25 and 26: Expert skiers tackle 14 of the most difficult black-diamond and double-black-diamond runs in one day during the Talons Challenge. Rewards include bragging rights, lunch, a swag bag, and more. beavercreek.com

DOUBLE DUTY

Shannon Cochran will play the female lead in two plays this month at SCR. by Alan Gibbons

Cochran’s storied career includes work on stage, in movies, and on dozens of TV shows. She tackles a new challenge this month with lead roles in concurrent plays at South Coast Repertory, “The Little Foxes” and “Appropriate.” Cochran lives in L.A. but is no stranger

to Orange County and SCR, having performed in “System Wonderland” and “A Doll’s House, Part 2.” She’ll relocate to O.C. for the duration of this run: “I drove back and forth the entire time (previously) and I thought, I’m never doing this again.” She discusses what she’s looking forward to with this twin theatrical run.

I’m one of those actors who never did summer stock. (Simultaneous roles) is a first for me. It’s both terrifying and thrilling to hold two plays up in your head at the same time.

ȵ Both plays are about what happens in family dynamics, in both birth order and gender. I’m the oldest, and my family jokes about how bossy I am. But all this responsibility fell to me, not just because I was the oldest, but because I was the female. And I think there’s a lot of conversation about that in both of these plays.

ȵ I think O.C. audiences are educated and extremely appreciative. ... I’m interested to see what they’ll embrace with these plays. We have to broaden and do more plays from voices that have been marginalized.

ȵ Keeping the dialects straight will be a challenge. Once you start hearing something that sounds cartoonish and Southern, you make assumptions, and they’re not always accurate. … Having grown up in the South and then spending many years in Chicago, people treated me like a bit of a Southern Belle. And I felt like the furthest thing from that.

ȵ My husband and I love the Crab Cooker in Newport Beach. That’s how we plan our trips. Could we stop at the Crab Cooker on our way to South Coast Rep? We also love Taco Marìa.

See Cochran in “The Little Foxes” and “Appropriate” this month. scr.org

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LARGER THAN LIFE

Laguna Beach filmmaker Greg MacGillivray chronicles a lifetime of adventures in his new memoir. by

Valerie Takahama

In the aptly titled “Five Hundred Summer Stories,” MacGillivray recounts behind-the-scenes moments during the making of his first film, “A Cool Wave of Color,” in 1964, and the astonishing sweep of surfing, Hollywood, and IMAX entertainment and conservation films that followed. Among them: a near-death experience during a wipeout in 25-foot surf shooting “Big Wednesday,” and a masterclass from director Stanley Kubrick while working on “The Shining.”

Did you keep a journal to be able to recall events in detail?

¼ I didn’t keep a journal, but I keep notations on my calendar as to what I do every day. Probably my first calendar was at 16. My first film took four years because I was going to high school and college. I had to be cautious with how much time I spent on my film and how much I spent studying and going to class. I tried to manage all those things, and I’ve carried that through my entire life.

How important to your work are the technical aspects like building waterproof housings for cameras and designing platforms slung under helicopters to film aerial shots?

¼ I learned the concept that with every film, you have to advance both the technical qualities as well as the artistic storytelling qualities. The reason that’s important—and I learned this through Stanley Kubrick’s movies—is that

the audience can see regular dramas and storytelling on television. But when they go out to a movie and spend their money or go to an IMAX theater, they want visuals that are spectacular, better music, and sense of sound. They want to be surprised; they want something out of the ordinary. No one understood that more than Kubrick.

For “To the Limit” (1989), my clients wanted a film on medicine and the human body. I thought, “OK, that can be really boring on the big screen because you have to have people talking, doctors.” I thought, “How am I going to make the story of the amazing human body visual and striking?”

No. 1, IMAX used true slow motion. They slowed the beautiful body down with a specialized camera that would shoot twice as fast and shoot true slow motion at 110 frames per second. You slow down the motion with that beautiful clarity of image and you see things

you’ve never seen. So I used ballerina Nina Ananiashvili and Carl Lewis, the famous sprinter and long jumper, to show their bodies in movement. You end up watching these people move, and it’s poetry; it’s gorgeous. It’s still one of my favorite films.

Are there different rules for a documentary film in terms of presenting the material?

¼ My films play in museums, and museums continue to be the No. 1 trusted source

for information because they have no ax to grind. They’re there to present the facts, and every fact in a museum has to be vetted by experts. So when I make a film like “The Living Sea,” I had 10 oceanographers passing judgment. “Just change that word, change that statement a little bit this way.” I can’t gloss over things. And it can’t be misleading, either.

Sometimes I’d love to make a good story point, but if it’s misleading, you can’t do it.

Hitting New Heights

March 5, 2023 • 2 pm

PhotocourtesyofLuisLuque

The stars of In the Heights and Hamilton share the stage for a night of showtunes, new music, and more!

scfta

Mandy Gonzalez & Javier Munõz

DON’T MISS IN FEBRUARY

Award-winning acts abound. by Robin Jones

OPENS FEB. 4

“THE BRUTON SISTERS: MODERNISM IN THE MAKING”

The exhibit focuses on sisters Margaret, Esther, and Helen Bruton, California modernists who created their art from the 1920s through the 1960s. Curated by Wendy Van Wyck Good, the leading expert on the sisters, it is the first group exhibit of their work in 50 years and includes paintings, watercolors, decorative art, and mosaics, along with archival materials on public display for the first time. UCI Lang -

son Institute and Museum of California Art, 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949-4760294, imca.uci.edu

FEB. 4

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER PRESENTS “SONGS WE LOVE”

Musicians tapped as rising stars by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra will explore some of the most important years in jazz history, the 1920s through the 1950s. Three vocalists will join the band to perform songs by Ma Rainey, Billie Holiday,

FEB. 1 THROUGH 19

“FROZEN”

Adapted from the popular Disney movie of the same name, the Broadway musical was nominated for three Tony Awards in 2018, including Best Musical. It includes the iconic “Let It Go,” which won the Oscar for Best Original Song, along with several other songs from the film and a dozen new numbers written by the film’s songwriters, Kristen AndersonLopez and Robert Lopez. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Judy Garland. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

FEB. 3 THROUGH 19

“STRANGERS ON A TRAIN”

Based on the classic 1951 Alfred Hitchcock film, which was in turn based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel, the play tells the story of Guy Haines and Charles Bruno, who strike up a conversation on a train. Haines complains about his wife’s refusal to finalize their divorce, and Antony suggests they “trade” murders: He’ll kill Haines’ wife, if Haines kills his father. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-489-8082, caminorealplayhouse.org

THROUGH FEB. 5

“THE SEA AROUND US”

Rebeca Méndez, an artist, designer, and the chair of UCLA’s design media arts department, created a video art installation, a 360-degree view of a spot in the Pacific Ocean 30 miles from the coast of Laguna Beach. It shows not only the marine life but also the barrels of DDT sitting on the ocean floor being probed by robotic arms. Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949-494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org

FEB. 9

PATTI LUPONE: “DON’T MONKEY WITH BROADWAY”

In her one-woman show, the three-time Tony Award winner performs some of her favorite Broadway show tunes from composers such as Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart, Jule Styne, Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, Cole Porter, and Irving Berlin while musing about her life on the stage and her concerns about the future of Broadway. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

PHOTOGRAPH BY DEENVAN MEER, COURTESY OF SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS

O.C. Scene

48TH ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT CONCERT

Segerstrom Center for the Arts raised a whopping $3.1 million to benefit nonprofit artistic, education, and community programs at its 48th annual Candlelight Concert in early December. Guests were transported to 1980s New York City for the evening with the Brooklyn Bridge as a backdrop and a gourmet Italian menu from celebrity chef Giada di Laurentis. The New York connection continued with a performance by Grammy, Emmy, and Tonywinning star Cyndi Lauper, who brought attendees to the dance floor immediately with her energy and hits such as “She Bop,” “Time After Time,” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” Dancing continued into the night as celebrity DJ Richard Blade kept a Studio 54-themed party going. Center president Casey Reitz, Chairwoman of the Board Jane Fujishige Yada (one of Orange Coast’s Kickass Women), and 2022 Candlelight Concert Chair John E. Stratman, Jr. shared the stage to present the evening’s lineup and thank donors and guests.

Photos Courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts

FEB. 9

LIZZIE NO

A singer-songwriter, harpist, and guitarist, folk artist Lizzie No has played at Americanafest, South by Southwest, and the Mile of Music Festival. Her two albums have earned critical acclaim and proved popular on alt-rock and college radio stations. She’s at work on a new studio album. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

FEB. 10 AND 11

WITTE LECTURE: ANNE APPLEBAUM

Journalist Applebaum, a senior fellow of international affairs at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and a staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses global political and economic challenges in a lecture titled “Authoritarianism vs. Democracy: A Global Crisis.” Most recently, she has focused on the rise of authoritarianism in her reporting; she won a Pulitzer Prize in 2004 for her book “Gulag: A History.” Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949548-2411, nbplf.foundation

FEB. 10 THROUGH 26

“A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER”

In this musical comedy, winner of the 2014 Tony Award for Best Musical, Monty Navarro discovers he’s eighth in line to inherit the title of Earl of Highhurst and hatches a plan: He might not be able to outlive all of his predecessors, but he could potentially hasten their deaths. He just has to figure out how to do it without getting caught. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-990-7722, curtistheatre.com

FEB. 11

CYRILLE AIMÉE

The jazz vocalist won the Montreux Jazz Festival Vocal Competition in 2007 and the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2012 and has released a dozen albums over her career. “Marry Me a Little” on her album “Move On,” a collection of songs by Stephen Sondheim, was nominated for a Grammy Award. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

OPENS FEB. 16

“GROUNDBREAKING WOMEN: ALLISON ADAMS”

The exhibit focuses on Adams’ paintings of women who inspire her. A collection of small prints, as well as small and full-size portraits, will be on display, as well as Adams’ award-winning short film, “Cloud of Witness.” Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-7386595, themuck.org

FEB. 17

BALLET ROMANTICA WITH THE CITY BALLET OF SAN DIEGO

San Diego’s premier ballet company visits Casa Romantica to present choreographer Jules Perrot’s classic “Pas de Quatre,” as well as other famous ballet duets like the pas de deux from “Coppélia” and “Giselle.” Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org

FEB. 18

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS

For almost 100 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have been facing off against the Washington Generals, trading eye-

FEB. 10

THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA

Icons in the gospel music world, the band came together in the late 1930s when the original members were kids at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind. The musicians have won five Grammys, been inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame, sung at the White House for three presidents, and collaborated with artists such as Prince, Peter Gabriel, Lou Reed, and Stevie Wonder. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

popping trick shots that get more and more outrageous as the game goes on. Their skills and athleticism, combined with their showmanship, make for a most entertaining evening on the court. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714704-2500, hondacenter.com

FEB. 18

LANTERN FESTIVAL 2023

Each spring in China, people light lanterns to let go of the past year and express hope for the upcoming year. The annual familyfriendly festival hosted by the Pacific Symphony ushers in the Year of the Rabbit with art, food, riddles, and performances from local music and dance groups. Admission is free, but tickets are required. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714556-2787, scfta.org

OPENS FEB. 21

TRIUMPH OVER ADVERSITY FESTIVAL

This free series of concerts, unfolding over several days, advocates for social change in classical music. Artistic director Davóne Tines, a bass-baritone who was named Musical America’s 2022 Vocalist of the Year, is known for his diverse repertoire encompassing opera, contemporary classical, spirituals, gospel, and songs of protest. Various locations, 949-553-2422, philharmonicsociety.org

FEB. 23 THROUGH 25

TCHAIKOVSKY & STRAUSS

Pacific Symphony begins with Richard Strauss’ “Serenade for Winds,” then continues with the world premiere of the new violin concerto by composer John Wineglass, performed by concertmaster Dennis Kim. The whole orchestra comes together for the final piece, Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony. Renée and Henry Segerstrom

PHOTOGRAPH BY JIM HARRINGTON, COURTESY OF IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE

FEB. 23 PILOBOLUS

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the innovative dance troupe presents its “Big Five-Oh!” tour, a mix of classic works from its repertoire and some of its most visionary choreography, including its trendsetting dances in shadow. Musco Center for the Arts, 415 N. Glassell St., Orange, 844-6268726, muscocenter.org

Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

FEB. 26

DIANE SCHUUR

Jazz legend Schuur commands the stage, where she’ll display vocal and musical chops honed over more than 50 years of performing and recording. She has won two Grammys for Best Jazz Vocal Performance; collaborated with everyone from B.B. King to Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and Herbie Hancock; and released 23 albums, some of which topped the Billboard Traditional Jazz chart. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949-480-4278, soka.edu

O.C. Scene

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 VEA Newport Beach. This year’s Luncheon had a record-breaking net for the ninth year in a row – with over $620k 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.

The Luncheon was chaired by Sarah Minakary and Sara Van Dusen, who were assisted by a volunteer committee of 70 members from the Friends of CASA (FOCASA) auxiliary group, which is led by FOCASA President, Dana Strader. The reception area and ballroom were exquisitely decorated with holiday touches that sparkled in hues of ivory, green and blue and styled by Elite OC Productions. This year’s fashion show was presented by Lafayette 148 New York and South Coast Plaza and produced by Shannon Davidson.

Photo Credit: John Watkins

Premieres

31 9pm

STYLE HOME

A VERY CHERRY GIFT

ÚTHE FIND Amour Propre’s cherry almond spa gift box set ($44 to $169)

Ú GOOD TO KNOW The Mission Viejo-based brand features handmade skincare with clean ingredients. The products in this set are made with cherries, almonds, rose, and a natural preservative. Follow the brand’s Instagram @loveamourpropre for updates on pop-up events for Black History Month.

Ú WHERE amourp.com

CURATED CASITA

The Huntington Beach-based brand sells vintage apparel and handmade ceramics. by Chelsea Raineri

In 2020, Riley de Encio began curating vintage clothing and accessories, including purses and shoes, and creating eye-catching ceramic pieces such as bowls, mugs, and more. “I have Hispanic roots, hence why I chose the word ‘casita,’ so pieces that are useful in your home,” de Encio says. “ ‘Curated’ fit more with the vintage clothing aspect, which is hand selected by me for you.” Customers can fi nd de Encio at pop-ups throughout O.C. Check Instagram for her schedule.

How did you get into ceramics?

 I’ve always been a very crafty, artsy person. I had done ceramics in high school, and I wasn’t very good at it, but I was determined. I thought I’d just teach myself something new, so I bought a used kiln and wheel and watched a bunch of YouTube videos. As with most things in life, I learned along the way.

What inspires your ceramic designs?

 I worked at Prism Boutique, and I was very inspired by the curation of clothing and brands and colors there. I pulled from that. Checkered print is one of my signature designs as well as my Balance tumbler’s (yin and yang) design. I based that o finding balance between work and play because the ceramics started as something I was doing for fun, but then it became my career. I wanted to play o something that had a dual meaning. I focus on functionality and pieces with intention, so I try and make sure that all my pieces will fit into everyone’s daily routine. That’s why I stick to cups and mugs because I think that’s what people use the most. I’ve also had a lot of people tell me they like to display them, so you can use them as decor pieces as well.

How did you decide to add in vintage items?

 I was really inspired by my grandmother; she had a lot of great vintage pieces, and I wanted to go out to try and source things on my own. I also went to school for fashion and merchandising so I wanted to incorporate vintage clothing as well. I’ve always been passionate about clothes. I feel like I have two crowds of people— people who appreciate the (fashion) aspect but also people who appreciate the amount of time and e ort that goes into creating each ceramic piece.

What do you look for when sourcing vintage pieces?

 I’m big on texture, so I go through racks and look for things that stand out to me, like chunky knits and textures that you can mix and match. I think that’s what makes an outfit stand out and a bit di erent as opposed to just wearing all the same material. I focus on basic everyday pieces with a little something extra from the texture. I often look for neutrals, but I do enjoy a pop of color here and there.

curatedcasita.com

Cowboy boots, purse, and handmade Balance tumbler from Curated Casita

MINIMALISM

Add these basics to your closet.

by

Chelsea Raineri

1 LV Fame cat-eye sunglasses, $480, Louis Vui on, South Coast Plaza, 714-850-9273

2 Silk gazar tunic, $598; mid-rise slim straight jean, $298; piercing at mule, $398, Tory Burch, South Coast Plaza, 714-689-0450

oversize bu ondown shirt, $798, Lafaye e 148, South Coast Plaza, 714-868-3131

Western belt in smooth calfskin, $520, Celine, South Coast Plaza, 714-957-1255

Leather room shoe, $485, A’maree’s, Newport Beach, 949-642-4423

6 Khaite Daria straightleg jeans, $420, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-759-1900

LOCAL FIND!

WISDOM FROM a master gardener

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

$5.39 MILLION

Corona del Mar

à 4,211 square feet

à 5 bedrooms

à 6 bathrooms

à The LEED Platinum home features a kitchen with biodegradable linoleum oors.

à Of note: The front yard’s drought-tolerant landscaping and low- ow drip irrigation system won first place in Roger’s Gardens’ California Friendly Garden contest.

à 703 Heliotrope Ave.

à Casey Lesher, 949-702-7047

Marianne Hugo became a Master Gardener in 2017 through the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. She also tends to a drought-tolerant landscape at home (Page 74).

BEING A MASTER GARDENER…

The University of California partners with a program called Master Gardeners of Orange County. I specialize in water conversation and SmartScape landscaping. It’s a program where the university trains and teaches community volunteers to go out and help people learn about plants, water conservation, garden pests, anything having to do with nature.

VOLUNTEERING AT THE COASTKEEPER GARDEN … I loved it. I volunteered from 2015 to 2020. I helped with tours; they do a lot of tours for school groups, clubs, and all kinds of organizations. It’s really fun because you get to take a group of kids and show them around the garden and do a bunch of activities.

CREATING A DROUGHTTOLERANT LANDSCAPE … I did it before anyone knew anything about transforming their yard, in 2015. Fastforward to now: I have people knocking on my door asking me how they can do it. The drought-tolerant plants attract birds, butterfl ies, native bees, and ladybugs, and they bloom year-round.

Photo credit: The Bowman Group

$4,745

A SUSTAINABLE DINING SPACE

Turkish furniture store Lazzoni opened in Costa Mesa in May. by Chelsea Raineri

With roots dating back to 1897, Lazzoni o ers an assortment of modern furniture and decor. The brand is now run by the founding family’s fourth generation and became EPA certified in 2018.

Materials including leather, fabric, and hardware are sourced from Italy, Germany, and Austria, and the furniture is manufactured in Turkey. Each piece can be customized, from the fabric to the shape of a couch to the depth and height of a cabinet or chair.

3

are LED lights, so they save energy and are best for ambient lighting.”

“They are handmade in Turkey by Sisecam Pasabahce, one of the world’s largest glassware producers.”

a nice contrast.”

engineered

1 TABLE “The Fly Table can have a glass, wood, or ceramic top,” interior designer Kayhan Cecen says.

2 CHAIRS “The Armada chairs are Ultrasuede, but the fabric and legs can be customized.” $575

LIGHTS “These

$675

4 GLASS ACCESSORIES

5 CABINETRY “The Neva Sideboard (in ma e blue) o ers

$5,315

6 RUG “The viscose rug is a special

fabric that is smooth to the touch.” $4,000

6

INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN

with Adriana Doberstein

Q What makes Pacific Shore Stones unique in the industry?

A Pacific Shore Stones is a distributor of exotic natural stones, quartz, and premium surfaces. First and foremost, we aim to provide our customers with the highest quality materials and service. We have developed joint ventures with quarries across the world, built on strong relationships, giving us access to the finest blocks which are hand selected by us. We are located from coast to coast, through multiple company-owned showrooms across the U.S., all of which have a large selection of natural and engineered stones with a vast inventory of various colors and finishes, plus dedicated staff to assist customers with their needs, supporting fabricators, consumers, architects, builders and interior designers in selecting the best slabs for their projects. Our mission is to offer a wide choice of carefully hand-selected stone and surface products and to provide great value for our customers at every price point. Our vision is to continue to grow our business and develop into new markets, expanding our reach so that more people can experience our quality products. As our growth continues, our goal is to further develop our connection on a local level and strive to give back to those communities.

Q What makes natural stone such a beautiful addition to any interior?

Adriana Doberstein Manager, Pacific Shore Stones Irvine

2200 Alton Pkwy. Irvine, CA 92606

(949) 536-5055

pacificshorestones.com

A The word NATURAL says it all, it comes from nature! With all its character and irregularities, it is unique and one-of-a-kind, no two are alike. Natural stone’s beauty is like wine, it is ageless and only gets better with time. From the gorgeous marble to the amazing quartzite, there is a perfect stone for each area of the home; may it be the kitchen countertops and backsplashes, bathroom vanities and shower walls, flooring and fireplace surrounds, there are endless ways to add its lasting elegance to the space. Variations of color and texture such as polished, leathered, honed, and brushed, provide an amazing array of options to consider, the possibilities are endless.

Q What design trends are influencing your industry now?

A There has been a RENAISSANCE, a comeback of sorts, when it comes to using natural materials in recent years. The new array of colors, such as the light and soft Mont Blanc and the colorful and exuberant Cristallo Tiffany quartzites, which are strong as granite with the feel of marble, has created renewed interest in the Design Community due to their sustainability, durability, uniqueness and beauty. Also, the new Antolini’s Azerocare line; a stone treatment which is the first ever of its kind to offer polished marbles, onyxes and more delicate stones full protection from etching and staining caused by contact with acid-based food elements, has enticed a new movement in the industry.

Q How do you help customers find the perfect stone product for their project?

A “BRINGING THE JOURNEY TO YOU” is our motto. From the moment the client steps into our showroom we treat them as family, bringing them into a personal experience like no other. One that embraces their needs and concerns and makes them our own. We are proud of our selection and stand by our products because getting the best product requires knowledge, time, expertise and understanding. It is important to make sure the materials at our stores are of the utmost quality and beauty. At Pacific Shore Stones, we really believe in bringing the journey to you, our customer. Our showroom is as cozy as a coffee shop and the service will make you smile. Come get an espresso with us!

Discover the MAGIC MAYA of

The Maya Collection

Make the Maya your "go-to" place when you need to sit with a friend, gather with family, or be alone. A place for serious conversation or serene contemplation. Your spot to stretch your legs, read a good book, think, power nap, or simply ... do nothing at all!

844.446.0001

westminsterteak.com

2 California Closets

Making space for what belongs

We offer highly personalized and collaborative designs for the entire home that enriches interior life.

Showcase your style with our beautiful frame doors with glass insets. Create some drama by mixing dark hardware with our light finishes.

714.899.4905

CaliforniaClosets.com

Instagram @CaliforniaClosetsOC

1 Westminster Teak

Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

We like to call this look industrial farmhouse! We combine the edgy rugged lines of iron with traditional white oak treads. The open stair tread creates a modern twist to the traditional staircase.

714.536.6942

gaetanoinc.com

You've heard about Sub-Zero refrigerators for years - 78 to be exact. Back in 1945, Westye Bakke started this refrigerator company introducing the first system for preserving food at ultra-low temps - literally sub-zero. They have been the undisputed leader in refrigeration ever since. Go to our website to learn more about Sub-Zero or see them firsthand in any of our Orange County showrooms.

pirch.com/brands/sub-zero

Costa Mesa | 949.429.0800

Mission Viejo | 949.220.0656

Laguna Design Center | 949.704.0050 Pirch.com

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

3

4 PIRCH

5

6

Superior Tree Care

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

7

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

8

Bazaar del Mundo Shops

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the colorful shops at Bazaar del Mundo in Old Town San Diego are brimming with one-of-a-kind women’s fashions and accessories, including handcrafted jewelry, handmade purses and handbags and designer clothing. Now celebrating more than 52 years in business, owner-operator Diane Powers and her dedicated staff continue to carefully curate Bazaar del Mundo’s selection of treasures that pays homage to the globe’s most distinctive cultures – including vibrant home décor, authentic folk art, handwoven textiles and more. No matter who your Valentine is this year, you’re sure to find the stylish and tasteful gift that’s perfect at Bazaar del Mundo!

619.296.3161

BazaarDelMundo.com

FOOD DRINK

TIN’S OYSTERS

ÚTHE DISH A colorful plate of oysters topped with ponzu, red tobiko, scallions, and Tabasco ÚTHE DETAILS Chef Tin Nguyen uses a seasonal selection of oysters, usually Kusshi or Shigoku oysters from Seattle. They’re dressed with Kai’s signature citrus ponzu, which is aged in-house for four days.

ÚTHE PRICE $16 ÚTHE PLACE Kai ÚTURN THE PAGE for our review.

KAI

Choose your own setting at Pacific City’s new spot. by Gretchen Kurz

Shivering on a damp December night, I squint at the Pacific City directory looking for Kai. It’s been open since Halloween—how can it not be listed? My cohort checks his phone map to no avail. More breathless trudging eventually lands us at the hostess station, and we’re soon seated under a canopy of cherry blossoms ordering green-tea-infused Japanese whisky drinks. Whew.

It’s early and staffers outnumber diners, ensuring we get gracious, speedy service. The dinner menu covers a lot of ground, from gyoza to sticky ribs to crudo to lavish steaks. Executive chef Tin Nguyen’s dishes are more Asian fusion than Japanese, despite the deluxe sushi options. We’re encouraged to order two to three items per person to consume as they roll out from the kitchen. Soon, our little two top is a Tetris challenge of dishes and glasses, making eating a fraught obstacle course. Next visit, I trickle my orders like breadcrumbs and suggest you do the same—so hot dishes don’t grow cold and sleeves don’t drag through sauces.

Pacing isn’t an issue in the 10-seat sushi bar, set apart in a private alcove. Also apart from the main dining room is a yakitori bar, a whisky room, an omakase “speakeasy,” and the patio. Billed as an “immersive experience” that evokes Tokyo nightlife, Kai is the latest from Wild Thyme Group, the team behind Newport Beach’s crowd-pleasing Shorebird. The meandering dinner menu is heavy on snacks, appetizers, and share plates that encourage casual noshing.

Three juicy wagyu meatballs in a petite iron skillet are terrific foils for the impecca-

bly nuanced green tea Old-Fashioned—the restrained orange-teriyaki meatball glaze counters the bite of Suntory whisky. A robata skewer of silky Hokkaido scallops is delicately charcoal grilled under a wash of mirin butter. Lush watermelon salad offers thin slabs of sweet fruit zhooshed by lime salt, nubbins of pork belly, and stellar yuzu kosho vinaigrette. The salmon skin hand roll is exactly what you expect and no more. But the elegant toro nigiri is masterful; you couldn’t ask for any better.

Yes, you can get Shorebird’s popular Balboa roll here, but the Hashbrown is sure to be the darling cut roll of Kai. The ingredients read like a hot mess, but the kitchen works magic with crispy potatoes, tuna, blue crab, and cream cheese for a harmonious marvel of textures and temperatures. Buttery Japanese black cod is rich and classic—bites of the miso-marinated fillet melt on the tongue, leaving the slightest edges of sweet, caramelized mirin. Alas, pork belly fried rice is greasy and heavy. The jidori chicken variation is

21010 Pacific Coast Highway Huntington Beach 657-259-0010

5 BEST DISHES

à W agyu meatballs

à Toro nigiri

à Ha shbrown cut roll

à H okkaido scallops robata

à W atermelon salad

PRICE RANGE

Small plates, $7 to $15 bigger plates, $16 to $28 large plates, $28 to $72

FYI: Tuesday is omakase speakeasy night.

LEFT: The halibut carpaccio and Cherry Blossom cocktail make a dramatic visual statement.

RIGHT: The omakase speakeasy provides a hidden, intimate experience.

more balanced but far from fluffy. Shaking beef recalls its Vietnamese inspiration; the ultra-smooth tenderloin in charred chunks taste of lemongrass though the menu says lemon and ponzu. Sticky ribs aren’t so much sticky as gloppy under scads of plummy barbecue sauce, Anaheim chiles, and fresh cilantro. Others merrily gobble up the four ribs I found squishy and gelatinous; we all relished the Handi Wipes. Kai’s deftly grilled wagyu skewers showcase why we pay dearly for the marbled cuts. Sourcing and affording A-5 Japanese or Australian “black opal” beef is perhaps the most challenging aspect because once it’s in the house, it requires minimal intervention to delight diners—season sparingly and don’t overcook is the recipe. Which explains why it tends to taste the same, albeit fabulous, wherever you find it. Here, it’s the grandest option of the signature dishes.

Modern cocktails by Bar Director Topher Bray are novel and consistently executed. Some, like the smoking

grilled peach

Old-Fashioned under its dome of smoke, involve a bit of theater. The vodka-based Purple Rain arrives with a misty bubble you pop to access the violet elixir. Seeing the trick once is enough, but you’ll order another round for the swell drink, not the show. There’s a dazzling selection of Japanese whisky, but those options reside in a private dining room. Bottles of worthy sake are more accessible, on every menu.

Lots of matte black contrasting with bright artwork and flowery accents give the space modern, mainstream appeal. A neon logo wall welcomes all who enter with an urge to post on social media before laying eyes on the menu. From there, Kai is sort of a choose-your-own-adventure with its many rooms, mindsets, and menus. There’s much to enjoy, and like my test drives, getting lost leads to discovery.

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

Hokkaido scallops

O.C. Scene

SHERMAN LIBRARY & GARDENS NIGHT OF 1000 LIGHTS

Sherman Library & Gardens welcomed over 400 guests to Member’s Night for the annual Night of 1000 Lights. This year’s theme was Hooray for Hollywood. The dazzling display of lights and live entertainment ran for a total of 12 nights in December presented by South Coast Plaza.

A red carpet greeted guests as they entered. Guests enjoyed a glistening light tunnel, live entertainment, special access to "The Daisy" speakeasy and dinner prepared by Chef Jessica Roy of 608 Dahlia restaurant. Kids of all ages visited Santa in his "Miracle on PCH" workshop. A highlight was the Moulin Rouge Parisian dance hall featuring can-can dancers and French cabaret singers.

Photo Credit: Bruce Crary

Jennifer Mazariegos started BERRY DELIGHTFUL DESSERTS in fall 2020. Handmade, customized desserts range from churro cheesecakes to chocolate-covered strawberries ($30 to $100) and make great gifts for Valentine’s Day or any other occasion. Purchase on Instagram @berrydelightfuldesserts.

BRUSCHETTA BOARDS

When it comes to Postino WineCafe’s bruschetta, selecting a board of four varieties out of the dozen options is the toughest part. Each starts with a freshly sliced Postino roll lightly toasted to perfection before topping. by Greg Nagel

1 For the first-timer: Most people consider fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced tomato, and aromatic basil to be the de facto bruschetta, and this one delivers.

2 For the umami lover: A heap of garlicky marinated mushrooms, slices of fresh basil, and creamy mascarpone lay the groundwork for this toothsome bite.

3 For the goat cheese devotee: Pepper jam and velvety goat cheese form the perfect contrast between sweet and a kiss of spice.

4 For the aperitivo fan: Fig trees grow wild across the Italian landscape, inspiring this classic flavor combination. Prosciutto di Parma, fig, and luscious mascarpone join forces to make this salty, sweet, and creamy bite a celebration of Italy.

MADE IN ORANGE COUNTY

La Habra

HACKING THE SUPPLY CHAIN PANEL AT UNIVERSAL APPLIANCE AND KITCHEN CENTER WITH SIGNATURE

Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center at South Coast Plaza hosted a special Designers & Architects Anonymous session for architects, designers, builders, and developers to learn how to navigate the challenges and struggles in getting the product they need.

1. Attendees visiting with Universal Appliance team 2. Pamela Barthold of Pazzam Designs & ASID OC President, and Neda Imani, Designer 3. Panelists and moderator Megan Reilly of WestEdge Design Fair 4. Igor Royz of Universal Appliance during panel session 5. Guests engaged with panel conversation 6. Igor Royz and Battress Construction 7. Ryan Sarkis of Signature and guest 8. Alt Design team with Universal Appliance

The croquettes at LIDO BOTTLE WORKS change seasonally but are always on the menu. The current incarnation—panko-crusted sweet-potato, attractively presented with green harissa, tahini yogurt, and za’atar—might be the best yet. Other global, and globe-like, options include chef Joel Gutierrez’s curried meatballs made with Brandt beef and Chinese sausage and topped with mint yogurt, toasted coconut, and micro cilantro. Also check out the spiritinspired infused-wine or kombucha-based lowalcohol cocktails.

3408 VIA OPORTO, NEWPORT BEACH, 949-529-2784

BALLIN’!

Spheres are rounding out local menus.

by Benjamin Epstein

It’s hard to imagine snails being a signature dish, but the French-meets-Japanesemeets-Danish escargot ebelskivers at POPULAIRE are just that—as much in demand as the bistro’s “Pulp Fiction”-inspired Royale With Cheese. “I wanted to turn classic escargot into a takoyaki-inspired dish,” says chef Nick Weber, referring to Japan’s grilled-octopus balls. “Ebelskiver batter gave them the crispy exterior, the takoyaki pan made them perfectly round.” A buttermilk dipping sauce with koji, garlic, and parsley oil replaces escargot’s traditional butter. “People have really been loving it,” Weber says. 3333 BRISTOL ST., COSTA MESA, 714-760-4555

Octopus fritters might seem an unlikely starter at a burger spot, but the takoyaki at OJAI BURGER prove an ideal prelude for its wagyu fusion fare. The orbs are all octopus inside; cabbage, red pickled ginger, and green onions enhance the crispy wheat-flour exterior. Available sauces and toppings include Kewpie mayo, sweet okonomi, spicy miso, dried seaweed, and bonito flakes. For partner Takeshi Ozaki, and many of his diners, the attraction is obvious. “It’s one of those dishes that always brings you back to Japan,” Ozaki says. “It’s pure nostalgia.”

238 W. CHAPMAN AVE., ORANGE, 657-221-0619

The lobster donuts at MAYOR’S TABLE present dollops of savory dough, decadent with duck fat, fried to order, piped with fresh Atlantic lobster salad, and topped with an umami dust of edible kelp and dried mushrooms. They’re not perfectly round and can veer to ovoid. Chef-partner Riley Huddleston plates a trio with caper tartar sauce and a charred lemon slice. The overall impression is that of small-bite lobster rolls; it’s one of the most ordered starters on the menu.

3300 NEWPORT BLVD., NEWPORT BEACH, 949-662-6160

What Lies Beneath the Pond

True-crime theories come to life in Lake Forest.

by Barbara Neal Varma

It has been five years since the city of Lake Forest renovated the former Village Pond to become the scenic Veterans Park, a popular site for walkers, picnickers, and wedding photo shoots. Despite the extreme makeover, certain memories remain. Like the time my husband, Michael, sponsored a tree to be planted there to commemorate our wedding anniversary. (The tree’s no longer there, but

our love remains.) Or our first inaugural walk around the park the day we’d moved into our new home that is a peekaboo view away.

Then there was the time I heard they’d discovered a human skeleton at the bottom of the drained pond. Quite alarming considering the proximity to our humble abode, but, oh, those three little words: “I was right.”

I’m a bit of a murder mystery buff, you see. Not to boast, but I did correctly guess “who done it” at one of those murder mystery dinner shows, winning a “Super Sleuth” coffee mug and everything.

When I heard they were going to drain the pond as part of the renovation, my true crime-filled imagination kicked in. After all, the park’s grassy knolls were long known for some sketchy activity, especially at night. We’d often see police cruisers roll by, their spotlights aimed to pierce the inconvenient gloom.

By day, the most common “crime” involved folks feeding the many ducks and geese inhabiting the place, some of which just said no to migration and stayed year-round—and who could blame our feathered friends? Free food, good weather, scenic view—it was a fish and waterfowl’s paradise.

It was not, however, a walker’s paradise. We’d soon discovered the park’s picturesque scene was akin to a Monet. Sure, it looked great from a distance, but up close you saw that the fuzzy dots were actually an intricate mosaic of bird droppings: everything from dainty sparrow deposits to the splashier mallard designs. Impressionism at its best.

Over the years, the fowl contributions had made the pond a murky mess, hence the need for a new irrigation system as part of the renovation. In spring 2017, the arduous task of

removing 1.5 million gallons of water began. Giant pumps were parked around the water’s edge, lapping up the liquid at a slow, teasing rate. A giant bathtub ring of sorts was revealed, then came the sloping dark gray sides, a few inches more each day.

“Just you wait,” I told Michael as we peered through the construction fence during one of our evening promenades. By then they’d sucked the pond nearly dry, leaving only a shallow pool of dark water rippling in the breeze.

“They’re going to find something— or someone,” I said.

“Maybe they already did.”

“No way. We’d have heard something by now.”

TWO DAYS LATER, I HEARD something. My phone pinged with an incoming text from Michael, subject line: “You were right.”

I quickly tapped on the attachment he’d sent. Something from the City of Lake Forest according to the familiar red banner and official seal. I scrolled down to read the rest, eyes widening with every telltale word:

“Construction halted at Village Pond Park when Environmental Technologies drained the water and discovered a skeleton at the bottom of the 8-foot water feature on Friday, August 25.”

It went on to say that the Orange County Sheriff’s Department would hold a press conference later that day. There was even a picture of a city guy in a bright yellow vest trying to retrieve said skeleton lying half submerged in the sludge. The worker stood on the edge of a longneck crane (machine, not bird) and hovered over all that remained of some poor unfortunate soul.

In a fast five minutes I’d called all my friends, or at least those I’d regaled with my dire prediction. Many of their breathless questions matched my own: How long had it been there? Any weapons found? And one that made me pause: Did this mean a killer was on the loose? A murderer in our midst looking just like everyone else? Because it’s all fun and games when it’s just a ghoulish theory to

I HEARD THEY

banter around. But add in the harsh reality of human remains and suddenly it’s a Cause for Concern, and goodness knows that list was already too long in my head.

I fired up my computer and did a Google search for the news conference referenced in the report. But nothing came up. I tried a few more keywords: “Lake Forest” … “skeleton” … “Village Pond.”

Still, nada.

I pulled up the attachment again from Michael’s message, looking for when the promised news conference would begin. Except now that the report was on my monitor instead of my itty-bitty phone screen, I could see the font was a bit mismatched.

I zoomed in and saw a couple of sentences were slightly larger than others. Come to think of it, that skeleton looked remarkably intact for being underwater for so long, its laidback pose more day at the beach than dead in the water.

Oh. My. God.

I GRABBED MY PHONE AND texted Michael, who was out running errands: “This isn’t for real, is it? Did you do this?”

Dancing dots ... then: “Yeah, it was me. And Photoshop,” followed by a smiley face.

Just like that, the only dead man in this story was my husband.

I spent the next 15 embarrassed, red-faced minutes calling everyone back and confessing that I wasn’t such a super sleuth after all.

When Michael eventually arrived home, I didn’t deign look at him but said only, “Let us never speak of this again.”

Epilogue: The new Veterans Park officially opened more than a year after the initial demolition began. Thirtyfive species of waterfowl, including ducks and Canadian geese, were safely relocated to nearby sanctuaries; 4,000 fish—mostly largemouth bass, sunfish, and bluegill—were also given new aquatic homes.

And Michael and I are still married.

As for my crime scene prediction, the construction crews did end up finding some interesting things at the bottom of the pond: several cellphones, a couple of skateboards, a small statue of Buddha, and a wheelchair.

Wait— a wheelchair? What happened to its owner?

I have my theories.

WHEN

WERE GOING TO DRAIN THE POND AS PART OF THE RENOVATION, MY TRUE CRIME-FILLED IMAGINATION KICKED IN. AFTER ALL, THE PARK’S GRASSY KNOLLS WERE LONG KNOWN FOR SOME SKETCHY ACTIVITY ...

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H OC

How does water work in Orange County?

In seeking the answer to this seemingly straightforward question, we were plunged into a fascinating and complex story involving largescale innovation, world-class systems, a sprawling network of organizations working together toward a common goal, and an ancient and invisible resource hidden beneath our feet.

The story of water in Orange County is really a tale of two counties. More than three quarters of the county’s 3.1 million residents live in north and central O.C. This region, which includes parts of Newport Coast and Irvine as well as everything from there to the county’s northern border, sits atop a series of aquifers known as the Orange County Ground-

The vast underground resource was formed millions of years ago, as mountains eroded and sediments filled the deep valley. One of the largest such basins in Southern California, it contains about half a million acre-feet (169 billion gallons) of usable water and covers 270 square miles. Think of it as a huge subterranean bank safeguarding one of the region’s most precious resources.

By the 1930s, the basin was providing 145,000 acre-feet of water to the county, most of it used for agriculture. But the groundwater levels had been dropping without replen-

ishment. The “bank account” would eventually be overdrawn. In 1933, the California Legislature created the Orange County Water District (OCWD) to protect, monitor, and conserve the groundwater supply.

Today, the district continues to manage the basin, providing 19 local water retailers with a reliable and low-cost supply of quality drinking water, which the retailers deliver to customers in their area. The basin provides 77 percent of the drinking water supply to residents of north and central O.C. The remaining 23 percent is provided by imported water. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) delivers this water from the Colorado River as well as Northern California.

For the remaining 600,000 O.C. residents living south of Orange County Water District’s coverage area, the story is quite di erent. The eight retail water agencies in South O.C. rely almost entirely on imported water, which costs about twice as much as local groundwater. Imported water is also less reliable, since the supply is vulnerable to earthquakes,

which can damage water lines, and drought. The West is now in its 23rd year of drought—the driest period in 1,200 years.

In South O.C., the conversation revolves around water conservation as well as finding new and innovative ways of increasing the local water supply through processes such as stormwater capture, water reuse, and desalination.

“We want to reduce the use of imported water,” says MWD general manager and Fullerton resident Adel Hagekhalil. “The future for (our group) is not just as an importer of water but a provider of water. We want to be a partner in supporting local communities’ access to diversified sources of water. Storage is going to be key for us. When we have water coming in short periods of time, we need to figure out how to capture that and store it to get through periods of drought. At the end of the day, we have to make sure that when you turn on the faucet, you have water. We need to provide resilient water supplies for everyone, with no one le behind.”

WORLD - CLASS SYSTEM

Orange County is home to the world’s largest water purification system for indirect potable reuse—and it’s only getting bigger. The Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS), a joint project between Orange County Water District and Orange County Sanitation District, just finished its final expansion. We spoke to OCWD General Manager Mike Markus and the group’s recent president, Steve Sheldon, to learn more about this revolutionary facility.

Where does our water come from, and how does the replenishment system fit into the picture?

Markus: The main sources of water that recharge the Orange County Groundwater Basin are ows from the Santa Ana River, local rainfall, imported water, and water from the GWRS.

How much water comes from the GWRS?

Sheldon: It’s quite impressive the amount of water we’re delivering to the county. Before this expansion, we provided 100 million gallons of water each day, which is enough for around 850,000 people. With this final expansion that is set to go online this winter,

the GWRS will provide 130 million gallons of water per day, which is enough for about a million people.

When was the system created?

Markus: It opened in its initial state in 2008. We began looking at developing the concept for this project and ge ing it approved in the mid-’90s.

Reverse osmosis

The first phase was a $481 million project, and it was on a scale that had never been done before. The initial expansion in 2015 was another $142 million.

ȵ Sheldon: There were a lot of naysayers at the (beginning). “It’s going to be too expensive.” “It’s a risk.” But it was a good risk.

ȵ Markus: There was a term coined at the time, “Toilet to Tap,” and opponents to these types of projects used that as a type of scare tactic. But we were successful. One of the first things the board did was hire a public affairs firm. We did outreach; we did polling; we did focus groups. We got letters of support from all the retail water agencies and the city councils. We had the environmental community behind us—Surfrider, Coastkeeper, Sierra Club—they all supported the project. We did outreach to the underserved communities. We gave more than 1,200 presentations over a 10-year period. We ended up with no active opposition on the project. And we continue that outreach to this day.

Where does the water for the GWRS come from?

ȵ Sheldon: We’re really blessed to have the Orange County Sanitation District right next door (to the replen-

ishment system facility in Fountain Valley).

ȵ Markus: (The sanitation district) will treat the domestic and industrial wastewater to a degree where they can safely discharge it into the ocean. But instead of doing that, we intercept that water and bring it into our facility and treat it with our advanced purification process so that it exceeds all the parameters to make it safe to drink. We view wastewater not as a waste but as a resource. Once we get our final expansion online (which cost another $310 million), we will be recycling 100 percent of the sanitation district’s recyclable flows. So that is an accomplishment where, I don’t know that there’s anyone else who can say that. Certainly not for potable reuse.

How is the water treated?

ȵ Markus: There are three main steps—microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet light with hydrogen peroxide. Microfiltration gets rid of any bacteria, protozoa, and suspended solids that go through the treatment process. Reverse osmosis removes the dissolved minerals, viruses, and pharmaceuticals. There are some very small contaminants that can get through reverse osmosis, and that’s when the

ultraviolet light and hydrogen peroxide come in. By the time we get done with the water, it’s as pure as distilled water.

Does all of that water go into refilling the groundwater basin?

ȵ Markus: Most of it goes up a 13-mile pipeline we built along the Santa Ana River to two recharge basins we have in Anaheim. Those recharge basins percolate water into the groundwater basin. But some of the water produced by the GWRS goes into the seawater barrier—a series of wells we have along Ellis Avenue that we have to inject with freshwater to keep the seawater from flowing in and contaminating the groundwater basin.

What makes the GWRS unique? Why don’t other places do what you do?

ȵ Sheldon: Not every jurisdiction is so fortunate to have a large groundwater basin. And of course it’s a major investment.

ȵ Markus: We’ve won more than 80—probably over 100 at this point— awards for innovation, and we’ve been highly successful. Organizations from around the world are definitely looking at what we’re doing here and hoping to replicate it. And we are actively helping them and advising them.

“We view wastewater not as a waste but as a resource.”

— OCWD GENERAL MANAGER MIKE MARKUS

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ORANGE COUNTY WATER DISTRICT

Microfiltration

H2OC

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California provides the majority of rebates for drought-tolerant landscaping and other watersaving measures. Learn about rebates, landscaping classes, and water-saving tips at bewaterwise.com

The fertilizer in urban runoff causes algae blooms in the ocean, which use up oxygen and cut out light.

There are four regions in the world that have similar temperatures to California—central Chile; the Mediterranean Basin; the Cape Region of South Africa; and Southwestern and South Australia. OC Coastkeeper developed a plant palette of California-friendly plants from those regions.

HOW TO SAVE WATER WITH LANDSCAPING

Orange County Coastkeeper started its SmartScape program in 2010 to teach homeowners how to transition from traditional grass lawns to drought-tolerant landscaping. California-friendly landscaping saves water and reduces urban runoff, which poses a threat to the ecosystem. To help accomplish this goal, the organization created the Coastkeeper Garden in Orange, which has six themed example backyards on 21/2 acres of land showcasing landscaping plans homeowners can choose from.

SmartScape was developed to be a one-stop shop so residents don’t have to search around to switch to drought-tolerant landscaping. Instead, they are carefully walked through each step of the process to determine what they want out of their landscape, rebates they can get, how to maintain their new landscape, and more.

The garden is undergoing renovations and will reopen in spring, offering new ways to educate homeowners, such as how to select the best type of irrigation system and demonstrations on growing food and herbs.

To become an OC Coastkeeper member, donate at least $20 or volunteer for at least two hours.

The initial cost of droughttolerant landscaping is about $7 per square foot; homeowners save in the long run on water and maintenance.

SMARTSCAPE AT HOME

What’s great about Coastkeeper’s SmartScape program is that when you’re first starting (to transition to a drought-tolerant landscape), you have a lot of questions. You can call up Coastkeeper and they’ll give you answers to your questions, including how to apply for a rebate or what plants are the best. Going to the Coastkeeper Garden and seeing

the plants in person makes a huge di erence. All the plants at the nursery are cute li le plants in 1-gallon pots. So people go to a nursery and buy all these plants not realizing that in five years it’s going to grow into a 10-by15-foot shrub. If you go to a garden that is established, you can see the plants at maturity.

When you first plant your yard, it

looks really sparse because the plants come in small containers. The advantage of planting your plants small is they establish be er, and they develop a be er root system, but you have to give it time. It takes six months to a year to fill in. They’re slower growing, but that’s also the reason why they take less water, and you don’t have to prune them as o en.”

Marianne Hugo volunteered at the Coastkeeper Garden for five years and created a drought-tolerant landscape in her backyard in Orange.

WORTH ITS SALT

South Coast Water District plans to decrease its reliance on imported water by creating a local, reliable, drought-proof supply through the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project. The project would also provide emergency water should the delivery of imported water be disrupted by earthquakes or other natural disasters.

“If those pipelines were ruptured,

we could have an outage of two months,” says Rick Shintaku, general manager of South Coast Water District. “It’s another reason why our district is looking to build this desalination project. Because if we do that, we’re able to take 2 million gallons per day from it, and we’re able to serve water to our customers for 60 days. The importance of doing that in a business area, resort

areas, and our residences out here is significant.”

The project has been approved by the California Coastal Commission and the State Lands Commission. The desalination plant will use subsurface slant wells to draw seawater in from beneath the ocean floor and pump it to the treatment facility, where it will undergo reverse osmosis and disinfection to produce clean drinking water.

The Doheny Ocean Desalination Project aims to bring a new reliable local water supply to South Orange County.

A JOINT EFFORT

hat is Water UCI?

WWe started about eight years ago as an initiative on the part of the chancellor to bring di erent units of the university together to explore issues of societal importance. Some colleagues and I got together and said, “A really important issue here is water.” If you took Irvine and drew a circle out 100 miles, which includes the ocean, you would encounter just about every water problem faced on the planet, from too li le water to too much water. In addition to finding every water problem conceivable, we believe you can also find solutions to those problems if you can bring folks together.

We were funded by the chancellor for three years and then we became self-supporting, which means we found agencies, foundations, and clients to fund our work in research, education, and outreach.

Let’s start with outreach.

A main component involves having seminars on various subjects related to water problems. We invite experts from the university and from around the world to give (talks) on topics of water such as drought, contaminants of emerging concern, and community solutions to water injustice. It’s free and open to the general public, and the experts speak in plain language. We also netcast the talks.

What about education?

We have a field study program in the school of social ecology where we hire undergraduate students to work on our projects and get exposed to real-world problem-solving. We’re also developing a continuing education program that we hope to launch this year, an opportunity for water professionals to learn more about leadership. A third program is working with middle schools in central O.C. on water-conservation issues.

And research?

Areas of research we’re working on include contaminants of emerging concern such as PFAS, water diplomacy and disputes, and the security of virtual platforms water agencies are using to store and share data. We also just finished a project for the governor’s Natural Resources Cabinet. In 2020, they came out with the California Water Resilience Portfolio. Basically, the cabinet solicited opinions from literally hundreds of people around the state about the major challenges with water. We were approached by the cabinet to take this information

and unpack it to find out exactly what are the scientific problems that need to be addressed right now. We did a statewide survey and held a virtual workshop, and we concluded that one of the biggest concerns that Californians have about the future of water, in the face of great demands and great uncertainties, is: How can we make sure we have a water supply that’s not only available but equitably and fairly managed? We’re going to propose exploring in greater detail the innovations that are being promoted—desalination, conservation, rainwater harvesting. We’d like to help the state figure out how these innovations can be implemented keeping in mind public acceptance and fairness.

What is meant by “water justice”?

If you look at the management of water in California and elsewhere, underrepresented populations—people of color, minority groups, lower-income residents, the homeless population—generally are more subject to water hazards than are the rest of the population. How so? In California, those groups tend to live in areas where water supplies are of questionable quality, and they can’t a ord water as the price goes up due to climate change. Water justice means making sure whatever decision we make about the future of the water supply takes their opinions, well-being, and considerations into account. Water is one of the very top issues in our region and in our world. There’s a big debate about water rights—is there a human right to water? I take a di erent tack. There’s one fact that’s inarguable: Water is a human NEED. None of us can survive without it. And between climate change and growing demands, we are facing some serious challenges on how we can manage water e iciently and equitably. When I look around the world and see problems of poverty and childhood diseases and public health, the common denominator is water. Water is a cause. Water is a symptom. Water is a consequence of all of these problems.

Why is Water UCI positioned to help address these problems?

I think our center is really blessed by the fact that we have a lot of support from the Orange County and regional water community. Virtually every institution knows of us and works with us. There is a unique base of support in this region for partnership between the water sector and universities. These agencies are far-sighted. They are looking to tomorrow’s problems.

David Feldman, director of Water UCI and professor of urban planning and public policy and political science, discusses UC Irvine’s interdisciplinary approach to helping solve the world’s biggest water issues.

BIG SAVERS

UC Irvine and the Irvine Ranch Water District received the 2022 Award of Excellence from WateReuse, a national nonprofit trade organization promoting water reuse.

50+

years that UCI and Irvine Ranch Water District have partnered on recycled water use

80 MILLION gallons of drinking water UCI saves per year by using recycled water to cool buildings

2025

year by which UCI plans to halve per capita drinking water demand

300 MILLION additional gallons of water UCI saves per year via turf replacement, droughttolerant landscaping, and high-efficiency fixtures

3,000 feet of pipeline transporting recycled water from Irvine Ranch Water District to UCI

THE FUSS ABOUT PFAS

You may have heard the term PFAS—perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. But what are they, and why did they cause 61 wells in Orange County to get shut down?

to

WHAT

PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals used in everyday products such as water-resistant clothing, nonstick cookware, and cleaning products. They are found everywhere, nearly indestructible, and have been used for decades. More recently they have been publicly linked to health risks.

PROBLEM

In 2020, the state’s regulations on PFAS changed. Of the more than 200 large municipal drinking wells in north and central O.C., 61 were found to contain a higher amount of PFAS than state health advisories allow.

SOLUTION

The retail water agencies that owned those wells decided to proactively shut them down, the economic impact of which is in excess of $1 billion over 30 years. OCWD decided to cover the full cost of designing and constructing PFAS treatment facilities that would filter out the PFAS, as well as half the operation and maintenance costs.

OUTCOME

In a li le more than two years, a third of the a ected wells were back in operation. The remaining wells are set to be completed by the end of this year. To o set the related costs, OCWD and 10 of O.C.’s public water agencies filed a joint lawsuit against a handful of companies they claim are responsible for the manufacture and sale of PFAS and thus the contamination of groundwater.

WATER USE IN CALIFORNIA

50% ENVIRONMENTAL water found in rivers, wetlands, etc.

40% AGRICULTURAL much of it used for alfalfa (ca le feed) and growing tree nuts such as almonds

10% URBAN residential and industrial use

NOTE: These figures are averages and vary widely between wet and dry years and between di erent parts of the state.

Source: Public Policy Institute of California

Source: OCWD

Cost of groundwater: $558 per acre-foot

Cost of imported water: $1,209 per acre-foot

O.C. RESIDENTIAL INDOOR WATER USE

26.6% SHOWER

35.8% TOILET

21.6% MISCELLANEOUS

GLOSSARY

AQUIFER: an underground area of porous rock or sediment saturated with groundwater

DESALINATION: the process of removing salt from seawater to make it suitable for drinking and irrigation

DIRECT POTABLE REUSE: the injection of recycled water directly into the potable water supply

.8% SOFTENER

1.1% DISHWASHER

8.3% LAUNDRY MACHINE

5.8% LOW-FLOW LEAK

NOTE: 61% of residential use is for outdoor purposes such as irrigation.

Source: Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

INDIRECT POTABLE REUSE: the injection of recycled water into a water supply reservoir or aquifer

POTABLE: safe for drinking

RECYCLED WATER: water which is reclaimed, treated, and reused

URBAN RUNOFF: water from rain, landscape irrigation, and car washing that drains from roofs, driveways, sidewalks, and other surfaces, doesn’t soak into the ground, and typically contains pollutants

WASTEWATER: water that has been previously used by a municipality, industry, or agriculture and has su ered a loss of quality as a result

CALL THE WATER COMPANY

Representatives from three of the county’s public water agencies discuss their strategies and concerns.

DANIEL FERONS general manager of Santa Margarita Water District

We import most of our water, and a quarter of our water supply is recycled water. We do have our own groundwater basin here—the San Juan Creek Basin. But unlike the Orange County Groundwater Basin, which is 500,000 acre-feet, ours is about 25,000 acre-feet. And it’s high in salt, iron, and manganese, so you have to treat it. So just the scale and scope of ours is totally di erent. But that doesn’t make it less important. It does make it more expensive to use.”

“We came together with the City of San Juan Capistrano in 2021, so we now have a local treatment plant. And we just broke ground on our Ranch Water Filtration Plant. We want to get to 30 percent of our drinking water supply being local water, so that in an all-out emergency—the San Andreas Fault goes and we can’t import water—people can still shower, cook, we can keep the fire hydrants working, and those kinds of things.”

“If you were to look at how much water we used in the ’90s, we’ve added 60,000 people but we use less water today. Our water conservation e orts over time have been very important. We work with customers to help them find and fix leaks, educating them about being smart about their irrigation practices.

JOONE KIM-LOPEZ general manager and CEO of Moulton Niguel Water District

Today, 25 percent of our water demand is met with recycled water, which is quite a high number in comparison to other water agencies in the state. We focus on efficiency, and offer a number of different rebates to customers (such as for turf removal and high-efficiency fixtures).”

“We’re always looking at different avenues and exploring options for additional supply. We’ve invested jointly in service reservoirs, and we’ve also worked with northern agencies on being able to access the groundwater basin in times of emergency. One of the exciting things we’re doing right now is looking into direct potable reuse, basically treated recycled water for drinking purposes.”

“What keeps us going is the people. We’re data-driven and people-focused. We have an outstanding organization of employees who are truly dedicated to service.”

“In water, everything moves very slowly. But times of crisis force change. And we need to modernize. What we used to do worked well for a long time. But the challenges of today and the future are not what we had planned for. So that means we have to pivot, be more nimble, and embrace the world of new ideas.

PAUL COOK general manager of Irvine Ranch Water District

The main question I get is, ‘Do we have enough water?’ We’re in a really good position. We have a diversity of sources for our water. Half is local groundwater, 18 percent is imported, 28 percent is recycled water, and 4 percent is captured rainwater from Irvine Lake.”

“I love to brag about our recycling program. Most of our sewage goes to our two recycling plants, where it’s treated and used for outdoor irrigation and other nondrinking uses. That’s why even in a drought, we can keep our service area so green. But we’ve put up signs to let people know, ‘Hey it’s OK—we’re using recycled, nonpotable water.’ ”

“Our customers are very efficient. We don’t like to use the word conserve—that to me is cutting back to the point that it’s painful. But they use water wisely. Our rate structure and outreach programs encourage efficiency. It sounds kind of weird to say, but we don’t want people to buy too much of our product. We’re a government agency and we’re providing a service. It’s expensive to buy imported water, so if we can avoid that we can pass those savings on.”

“The runoff from irrigation goes down San Diego Creek and into (our district’s) San Joaquin Marsh. There, it’s treated naturally; pollutants such as nitrogen are removed by the plants so that the water can safely flow into Upper Newport Bay and not cause algae blooms.

photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

A REAL PAGE TURNER

Michelle Pierce took ownership of Lido Village Books three years ago, just as the pandemic was taking hold. Now, months after relocating the shop, she’s focused on building a vibrant community of book lovers in Orange County.

by Robin Jones

When she first started thinking about buying a bookstore, Pierce had been living in Alaska for 10 years and needed a change of scene. “It was September, and we already had snow. I was sitting by a fire, looking online at stores around the world, when I found the listing for this one and realized I’d been to it before. I have family in Newport Beach, and I thought, ‘Maybe it’s time to come home.’ ”

She closed escrow on the store on March 20, 2020—just as COVID-19 was shutting down the world. “Clearly it shook up the business, but it did allow me two months to learn the inventory. And from the start, people were knocking on our doors, asking how they could support us. They’d call and tell me what they liked to read, and I’d pick out 20 books and lay them out on the carpet and take pictures. They’d tell me what they wanted, and I’d pack it up and deliver it to their doorstep.”

Through those front-door deliveries, Pierce rediscovered Orange County. Twenty years earlier, she had earned her bachelor’s degree in drama from UC Irvine and moved to New York, where she starred in a one-woman show and did voice-over work while waiting tables at Le Cirque. She got a gig doing shows for tourists in Skagway and quickly decided to make Alaska her permanent home. “I don’t know how you go back to the

big city after being surrounded by peace and nature all day.”

Soon, she pivoted from the stage to the kitchen, opening a bakery in an organic marketplace, where she sold bread made from scratch to customers who were used to spending $6 for a loaf of Wonder Bread. “To bring good, fresh-baked bread to that community was a joy and a pleasure.”

She’d always dreamed of owning a bookstore. An avid reader as a child, she devoured the classics—which sometimes led her down unusual paths. “ ‘The Giver’ was one of my favorites, and after I read it, I thought, ‘This dystopian world is amazing!’ I started reading Ayn Rand, going from something that was age-appropriate to something that probably was not. I did that all the time; like, I read ‘Little House on the Prairie’ and thought, ‘Now I’ll read Willa Cather.’ ”

Her taste in books remains eclectic. “The older I get, the more memoir and history I read. It’s fun as you age to understand how we got to where we are today. I also read a lot of middle juvenile literature. To be able to write so well and engage young minds with humor and adventure is so beautiful.”

In fall 2022, Pierce relocated the bookstore to the other side of the center, across from the Lido Theater. This year, she’s planning to ramp up events, like quarterly open mic sessions for writers and book trivia nights. And she’ll continue to use books to connect with the community. “It’s such a different world here from Alaska. I was a little bit afraid I wouldn’t fit in, but being able to have conversations about books means you can fit in anywhere.”

I’m a strong believer that we pick up books when we need them. They speak to something we need in our lives.

TOP DENTISTS OF O.C. 2023

220

DENTAL PROFESSIONALS

CHOSEN BY THEIR PEERS AS SOME OF THE BEST IN OUR AREA

ENDODONTICS

Richard Angell

Newport Beach

949-640-0020

Steven W. Baba Orange

714-953-1000

David C. Beachler Orange 714-637-0976

Daniel J. Boehne

Dana Point 949-441-5965

John R. Buoncristiani

Corona Del Mar

949-763-3004

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

Joseph H. Greiner Anaheim

714-774-8360

Bruce R. Harkins Newport Beach 949-721-4007

Rodney D. Ida

Tustin

714-547-8494

Lee R. Ingersoll Santa Ana 714-569-1128

Samuel Ip

Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-4819

Reza Izadi Lake Forest 949-305-0202

Lars Björn Jönsson

Laguna Hills 949-581-8890

Dale W. Jung Huntington Beach 714-847-8488

Jeffrey Kawilarang Fullerton 714-738-6651

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 Otis Corona Del Mar 949-763-3004

Joseph L. Packer Irvine 949-274-7677

Jeffrey R. Pene Newport Beach

949-644-0595

Reid V. Pullen Brea 714-529-9029

Wyatt D. Simons San Clemente 949-498-2115

Douglas S. Szeto Lake Forest 949-305-0202

Anita Tomkoria Orange 714-639-3200

Richard C. Wittenauer

Newport Beach

949-729-2200

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Kareem N. Abraham Santa Ana 714-543-8396

Farzin Allameh

Newport Coast 949-706-1711

Lisa Angelici Fountain Valley 714-847-2650

Alexandria N. Arditti

Huntington Beach

714-677-8469

Melinda L. Beck Irvine 949-396-3803

Susan Bollinger

Newport Beach

949-759-7007

Jeff Coleman Huntington Beach

714-847-7733

Vanessa G. Cruz

Mission Viejo

949-458-2088

William R. Dapper San Clemente

949-492-1984

Dimple Desai

Newport Beach

949-647-4227

Ahmed Elgazar

Tustin

714-838-1199

Arnold C. Frankenberger

Newport Beach

949-646-8822

Dominic Gaspar

Huntington Beach

714-963-3555

Manreet P. Grewal Costa Mesa

714-545-0429

Naz Haque Tustin

714-505-0123

Richard A. Harder Irvine

949-501-7077

Christopher Hatae

Fullerton

714-870-0356

Abel J. Hernandez

Fullerton

714-870-0356

Ryan Hong Anaheim

714-998-2553

Nolan Jangaard Irvine

949-551-2024

Joyce Kahng Costa Mesa

949-642-0608

Randall Kanemaki Buena Park

714-827-2545

Aimee S. Kang

Huntington Beach

714-846-1386

Armaghan Kayhan

Irvine

949-559-6988

Roy Kim Foothill Ranch

949-830-2003

TOP DENTISTS OF O.C. 2023

Brian A. Lassiter Orange 714-997-2735

Ursula Levine Irvine 949-727-9600

Jayne M. Mckay

Huntington Beach 714-846-4411

Eric Moon Irvine

949-559-5900

Ann Nguyen Irvine 949-552-5055

Kaveh Niknia

Newport Beach 949-650-6111

Scott L. Rice Irvine 949-238-6755

Jeffrey C. Robertson Irvine 714-838-7272

Ronald K. Shimoide Anaheim 714-635-8653

James G. Shunk

Laguna Niguel 949-443-5000

Peter Smrecek

Newport Beach 949-759-8606

Andrew Spath Corona Del Mar 949-979-6605

Alain Toca Garden Grove 714-539-8994

Quan Tran Irvine 949-559-1814

Michael Yang

Tustin 714-547-9194

Desiree Yazdan Newport Beach 949-644-6988

Sean H. Yu Irvine 949-552-5500

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

Michael Phillip Blum Anaheim 714-772-2200

Heena Chandra Los Alamitos 562-598-4683

Ameet Chopra Santa Ana 714-953-6881

Adam T. Clark Aliso Viejo 949-202-4420

TOP DENTISTS OF O.C. 2023

David R. Cummings

Mission Viejo

949-586-7000

Farzin Farshidi

Tustin

714-838-4141

Sharo Fatehi

Laguna Niguel

949-472-3737

Bao-Thy N. Grant Orange

714-771-7677

Austin Hoover Santa Ana

714-835-8873

Daniel Hsu Irvine

949-679-3470

Young Jun Placentia

657-216-1617

Eric Kim Irvine

949-453-9797

Ryan Kriwanek Newport Beach

949-760-1661

Michael W. Marshall Huntington Beach

714-766-6560

Thomas Michaelis Newport Beach

949-760-1661

Steven A. Miyamoto

Fullerton

714-525-1178

Je rey Nguyen Irvine 949-679-3470

Solomon Poyourow

Los Alamitos 562-598-4683

MYTHS DENIED

How much do you really know about oral health? Garden Grovebased dentist Carly Barrett dispels some of the most common dental myths.

Sanford L. Ratner Santa Ana

714-835-7771

Nader K. Salib Mission Viejo 949-484-0987

Beau McKenzie Soares Anaheim 714-974-5906

Jason Straw Irvine 949-727-7000

David R Telles Huntington Beach 714-766-6560

Craig C. Thiede Tustin

714-519-2801

Lisa N. Tran Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Suzin Um Foothill Ranch 949-203-3177

Ron An Vuong Fountain Valley 714-444-2274

Monty C. Wilson Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Daniel Yang Yorba Linda 714-961-0907

ORTHODONTICS

Hal Barkate Newport Beach

949-722-9010

Douglas D. Baum

Tustin

714-544-8030

by ANASTACIA GRENDA

MYTH 1

MY GUMS BLEED WHEN I FLOSS, SO I SHOULD STOP. “It sounds counterintuitive, but bleeding often means people should floss more. Healthy gums won’t bleed, so that’s a sign they need to be flossing and brushing. Some people also aren’t flossing correctly, which is why we have a lot of demos and educational materials in our o ce so we can encourage people to learn how to floss properly.”

MYTH 2 MY PARENTS HAD BAD TEETH, SO I PROBABLY WILL, TOO. “Genetics does play a role, but there are a lot of other factors that play into oral health—just because your dad had cavities or your mom had dentures doesn’t mean you will, too. If people can commit to a healthier lifestyle and better hygiene, they don’t have to see history repeat itself. I talk a lot about nutrition with my patients and how processed foods cause many issues. Proper breathing and hydration can also help you avoid dry mouth, which may make you more prone to gum disease and decay. You want to create a healthy oral microbiome.”

MYTH 3 I GRIND MY TEETH AT NIGHT BECAUSE I’M STRESSED. “That can be true in some cases but grinding or clenching can also be caused by an underlying, often undiagnosed, breathing or musculoskeletal condition. A lot of issues contribute not just to grinding, but many other oral problems, and people don’t make those connections. That’s why we try to educate our patients as much as possible, so they have that awareness.”

Anita Bhavnani

Yorba Linda 714-777-4080

Bart Boulton Cypress 714-826-6770

Chuck Carlson Huntington Beach 714-410-7078

Debra Cook Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-7820

John DiGiovanni Newport Beach 949-640-0202

Sharif Elbayoumy

Tustin 714-832-9151

Glenn Frial Laguna Niguel 949-276-2105

Andrew T. Harner

Huntington Beach 714-842-9933

Hedi Kermani Newport Beach 949-640-5050

Enoch Kim Irvine 949-472-9155

C. Jack Lee Fullerton 714-871-8343

Deborah A. Lee Fullerton

714-253-5333

Samuel S. Lee Irvine 949-262-9567

Michael S. Lyons Placentia 714-993-3500

Ma hew D. Macginnis Fullerton 714-253-5333

Evelyn Y. Maruko Anaheim Hills 714-685-3890

James M. Meeks

Ladera Ranch 949-347-2525

Robert E. Meister

Laguna Hills 949-770-3161

Shawn Miller Orange 714-639-1061

Howard M. Nakamura

Trabuco Canyon 949-858-4626

Philip Nisco

Fountain Valley 714-979-1400

Vicki E. Okamoto Costa Mesa 714-546-5170

Taylor M. Olsen San Juan Capistrano 949-542-7799

Thomas P. Rose Fountain Valley 714-964-0021

Simon Shung Irvine 949-264-3314

Noland D. Soo Huntington Beach 714-842-7775

Heidi Starnes Newport Beach 949-720-8145

Mario Tai Irvine 949-892-6888

Sophia Updike Irvine 949-870-9713

Steven R. Wynn Newport Beach 949-642-2626

James J. Zahrowski Tustin 714-544-5345

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Azi Ardakani Laguna Hills 949-342-1484

Robin Reiko Arita Huntington Beach 714-968-8989

Tina Azin Rancho Santa Margarita 949-709-5437

Jaclyn W. Bae (Hui) Yorba Linda 714-660-1890

Dimitri G. Bizoumis Huntington Beach 714-898-3882

Leslie Butler Fullerton 714-680-9500

Kent Do Santa Ana 714-557-5437

TOP DENTISTS OF O.C. 2023

Nasem Dunlop

Foothill Ranch

949-668-0686

Bozhena Fisher

Newport Beach

949-640-0501

John Guijon

Huntington Beach

714-847-2566

Geoffrey M. Hersch

Newport Beach

949-644-0611

Brian Hong

Fullerton

714-992-5437

Phyllis Kawada

La Habra

562-690-3750

Ilhyun Kim

San Juan Capistrano

949-786-1383

Quy Nguyen Kim

Fountain Valley

714-549-0911

Steven T. Le

Westminster

714-766-4411

Tra Le Tustin

714-368-3334

Clara Lee Irvine

949-786-0800

Jacob Lee

San Clemente

949-361-2838

Richard Lee

Fullerton

714-992-5437

Yvonne Lee

Irvine

949-786-0800

Kathleen S. Lim

Tustin

714-838-9120

Christian Lopez Newport Beach

949-777-5902

Rabin Marfatia Irvine

949-299-1111

Laura McCormack Irvine

949-252-9950

Richard P. Mungo

Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Jeanne Nguyen Rancho Santa Margarita 949-858-5150

David H. Okawachi

Anaheim 714-635-1170

Lydia Park Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Maryam M. Pearose Foothill Ranch

949-716-2800

Mary R. Pham Placentia 714-528-8252

Shiva Roghani

Tustin

714-832-1343

Brian J. Saunders

Yorba Linda 714-996-2200

Amit A. Shah

Huntington Beach

714-698-9950

Graciela Sullivan

Huntington Beach 714-377-2628

Eddie Surger Newport Beach

949-640-0501

Samuel Wu Mission Viejo

949-594-3881

Shaul Yehezkel

Irvine

949-559-0674

PERIODONTICS

Michael Almaraz

Newport Beach

949-640-9475

Akemi Arzouman

Orange

714-744-9100

Michael J. Arzouman

Orange

714-744-9100

Ayman A. Balshe

Anaheim

714-998-2956

Steven J. Bounds

Irvine

949-857-1053

Justin M. Braga Huntington Beach

714-587-9094

Nicholas Caplanis

Mission Viejo

949-830-1322

John M. Cargasacchi

Cerritos

562-865-0196

Donald S. Clem

Fullerton

714-441-0436

Fartash

Farkhondehkish

Laguna Hills

949-770-0548

Rebecca Hart

Tustin

714-544-2220

Patrick L. Huston

Tustin

714-730-7877

Kian Kar Mission Viejo

949-830-1322

Ramtin Khaef Cypress 714-581-8585

Clara Kim Irvine

714-368-3319

Luis Kim

Newport Beach 949-644-0680

Cliff Lee

Orange 714-637-1600

Sheldon Lu

Tustin 714-835-4441

Iman Madi

Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

James Mata Santa Ana 714-556-5156

Jeffrey J. McCullough

Los Alamitos 714-484-8700

Marlene A. Miller

Tustin 714-544-5337

Mark J. Redd

Laguna Woods 949-581-6641

Peter A. Russo Huntington Beach 714-842-2515

Ajay B. Setya Mission Viejo 949-482-6089

Stephen Shepherd

Tustin 714-544-2220

Coury Staadecker Newport Beach 949-386-8911

Nelson T. Yen

Fullerton 714-441-0436

PROSTHODONTICS

Stephen G. Alfano Newport Beach 949-205-1259

Jesse Duncan

Newport Beach 949-220-0475

Anthony P. Gabriel Orange

714-771-7555

Antoanela Garbacea

Laguna Hills 949-951-7988

Mark A. George Orange 714-953-1000

Gregory Guichet Orange 714-771-7555

Daniel Kantarovich Orange 714-953-1000

James W. Kim Irvine 714-368-3319

Nelson Lowe Santa Ana 714-550-7474

Gianmarco O’Brien Orange 714-953-1000

Kent T. Ochiai

Tustin 714-542-9606

Robert L. Simon Fullerton 714-525-5200

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 dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and endodontics, asking them to reveal the best 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.

Endodontics

Richard Angell III Newport Beach 949-640-0020

Steven W. Baba Orange 714-953-1000 ext. 2

David C. Beachler Orange 714-637-0976

Daniel J. Boehne Dana Point 949-441-5965

John R. Buoncristiani Corona Del Mar 949-763-3004

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

Joseph H. Greiner Anaheim 714-774-8360

Bruce R. Harkins Newport Beach 949-721-4007

Rodney D. Ida Tustin 714-547-8494

Lee R. Ingersoll Santa Ana 714-569-1128

Samuel Ip Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-4819

Reza Izadi Lake Forest 949-305-0202

Lars Björn Jönsson Laguna Hills 949-581-8890

Dale W. Jung Victorville 760-881-3636

Jeffrey Kawilarang Fullerton 714-738-6651

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 Otis Corona Del Mar 949-763-3004

Joseph L. Packer Irvine 949-274-7677

Jeffrey R. Pene Newport Beach 949-644-0595

Reid V. Pullen Brea 714-529-9029

Wyatt D. Simons San Clemente 949-498-2115

Douglas S. Szeto Lake Forest 949-305-0202

Anita Tomkoria Orange 714-639-3200

Richard C. Wittenauer Newport Beach 949-729-2200

General Dentistry

Kareem N. Abraham Santa Ana 714-543-8396

Farzin Allameh Newport Coast 949-706-1711

Lisa Angelici Fountain Valley 714-847-2650

Alexandria N. Arditti Huntington Beach 714-677-8469

Melinda L. Beck Irvine 949-396-3803

Susan Bollinger Newport Beach 949-759-7007

Jeff Coleman Huntington Beach 714-847-7733

Vanessa G. Cruz Mission Viejo 949-458-2088

William R. Dapper San Clemente 949-492-1984

Dimple Desai Newport Beach 949-647-4227

ABEL J. HERNANDEZ, DDS

Coyote Hills Family Dentistry

“A big misconception in cosmetic dentistry is that teeth need to be big, bright and white,” says Dr. Abel Hernandez, “when in reality the focus should be on symmetry and harmony with the patient’s facial features.”

With their fantastic team at Coyote Hills Family Dentistry, Dr. Abel and his partner Dr. Chris Hatae have created “A Modern Dental Experience” in which patient care has become much more comfortable, precise, and predictable. By utilizing the newest advances in modern technology like intraoral digital impressions, CBCT, 3D printing, and same day CEREC crowns they will change how you’ll experience the dentist forever.

TOP

301 West Bastanchury Road, Suite 20 Fullerton, CA 92835 714-870-0356

coyotehillsfamilydentistry.com

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

• 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

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 board-certified Prosthodontist and Implantologist, Dr. Garbacea provides her patients with the most advanced treatment options and state-of-the-art technology for healthy, beautiful smiles.

“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.”

Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry of Laguna Hills 25261 Paseo de Valencia, suite 2 Laguna Hills, CA 92637 949-951-7988 drgarbacea.com

Ahmed Elgazar Tustin 714-838-1199

Arnold C. Frankenberger Newport Beach 949-646-8822

Dominic Gaspar Huntington Beach 714-963-3555

Manreet P. Grewal Costa Mesa 714-545-0429

Naz Haque Tustin 714-505-0123

Richard A. Harder Jr. Irvine 949-501-7077

Christopher Hatae Fullerton 714-870-0356

Abel J. Hernandez Fullerton 714-870-0356

Ryan Hong Anaheim 714-998-2553

Nolan Jangaard Irvine 949-551-2024

Joyce Kahng Costa Mesa 949-642-0608

Randall Kanemaki Buena Park 714-827-2545

Aimee S. Kang Huntington Beach 714-846-1386

Armaghan Kayhan Irvine 949-559-6988

Roy Kim Foothill Ranch 949-830-2003

Brian A. Lassiter Orange 714-997-2735

Ursula Levine Irvine 949-727-9600

Jayne M. Mckay Huntington Beach 714-846-4411

Roger Miya Whittier 562-943-1055

Eric Moon Irvine 949-559-5900

Ann Nguyen Irvine 949-552-5055

Kaveh Niknia Newport Beach 949-650-6111

Scott L. Rice Irvine 949-238-6755

Jeffrey C. Robertson Irvine 714-838-7272

Ronald K. Shimoide Anaheim 714-635-8653

James G Shunk Upland 909-982-0010

Peter Smrecek Newport Beach 949-759-8606

Andrew Spath Corona Del Mar 949-979-6605

Alain Toca Garden Grove 714-539-8994

Quan Tran Irvine 949-559-1814

Michael Yang Tustin 714-547-9194

Desiree Yazdan Newport Beach 949-644-6988

Sean H. Yu Irvine 949-552-5500

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

Michael Phillip Blum Anaheim 714-772-2200

Heena Chandra Los Alamitos 562-598-4683

Ameet Chopra Santa Ana 714-953-6881

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

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

Austin Hoover Santa Ana 714-835-8873

Daniel Hsu Irvine 949-679-3470

STEVEN A. MIYAMOTO, DDS

Fullerton Oral Surgery

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Steven A. Miyamoto specializes in using growth factors and stem cells to expedite healing after surgery. His practice includes wisdom teeth removal, pinhole surgery for gingival recession, 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.

2023

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

fullertonoralsurgery.com

KAREEM ABRAHAM, DDS, FAGD, MAGD

Lifetime Smiles of OC

Dr. Kareem Abraham has always been passionate about creating beautiful smiles that look and feel amazing. Growing up, he liked to work with his hands, often building models or studying blueprints in his free time. He also enjoys getting to know people, and thanks to all of these factors, by the time he went to college, he knew that he wanted to become a dentist. After graduation he spent his residency in the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in Conservative Cosmetic Dentistry and Veneers, where he went through intensive training. After residency, Dr. Abraham started his practice in Minneapolis with an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry in order to create the most natural looking smiles. With a pioneering spirit, he set out to master the art of porcelain veneers, passing rigorous examinations to earn the Fellowship then Mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry. These prestigious achievements recognize Dr. Abraham’s dedication to the best possible patient care and the highest levels of excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. He is an official Certified Digital Smile Designer by DSD coachman.

Dr. Abraham offers patient-centered care with a “one-patient-at-a-time approach.” His belief has always been that rushed, high-volume care results in complications and failures that could have been prevented. His commitment to uncompromising quality and precision has been the hallmark of his professional career.

“Hearing about a person’s hobbies, interests and lifestyle gives me insight into dental care options that will work for their specific situation,” he says.

Dr. Abraham believed that Orange County would be the optimum location to better serve patients from all around the world who are not confident with their smiles. Over the past 22 years, creating beautiful smiles makes it effortless for him. His reputation has earned him the trust of those who are looking to enhance their physiologic well-being and appearance.

“I’m passionate about using nontraditional approaches in helping my patients attain and maintain a dazzling and healthy smile.”

At LifeTime Smiles of OC, his state-of-the-art practice located in Santa Ana, Dr. Abraham provides comprehensive and advanced dental treatments using innovative technology and techniques to give his patients so many reasons to smile.

Young Jun Placentia 657-216-1617

Eric Kim Irvine 949-453-9797

Ryan Kriwanek Newport Beach 949-760-1661

Michael W. Marshall Huntington Beach 714-766-6560

Beau McKenzie Soares Anaheim 714-974-5906

Thomas Michaelis Newport Beach 949-760-1661

Steven A. Miyamoto Fullerton 714-525-1178

Jeffrey Nguyen Irvine 949-679-3470

Solomon Poyourow Los Alamitos 562-598-4683

Sanford L. Ratner Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Nader K. Salib Mission Viejo 949-484-0987

Jason Straw Irvine 949-727-7000

David R Telles Huntington Beach 714-766-6560

Craig C. Thiede Tustin 714-519-2801

Lisa N. Tran Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Suzin Um Foothill Ranch 949-203-3177

Ron An Vuong Fountain Valley 714-444-2274

Monty C. Wilson Santa Ana 714-835-7771

Daniel Yang Yorba Linda 714-961-0907

Orthodontics

Hal Barkate Newport Beach 949-722-9010

Douglas D. Baum Tustin 714-544-8030

Anita Bhavnani Yorba Linda 714-777-4080

Bart Boulton Cypress 714-826-6770

Chuck Carlson Huntington Beach 714-410-7078

Debra Cook Rancho Santa Margarita 949-589-7820

John DiGiovanni Newport Beach 949-640-0202

Sharif Elbayoumy Tustin 714-832-9151

Glenn Frial Laguna Niguel 949-276-2105

Andrew T. Harner Huntington Beach 714-842-9933

Hedi Kermani Newport Beach 949-640-5050

Enoch Kim Irvine 949-472-9155

Deborah A. Lee Fullerton 714-253-5333

Samuel S. Lee Irvine 949-262-9567

C. Jack Lee Fullerton 714-871-8343

Michael S. Lyons Placentia 714-993-3500

Matthew D. Macginnis Fullerton 714-253-5333

Evelyn Y. Maruko Anaheim Hills 714-685-3890

James M. Meeks Ladera Ranch 949-347-2525

Robert E. Meister Laguna Hills 949-770-3161

Shawn Miller Orange 714-639-1061

Howard M. Nakamura Trabuco Canyon 949-858-4626

Philip Nisco Fountain Valley 714-979-1400

Vicki E. Okamoto Costa Mesa 714-546-5170

Taylor M. Olsen San Juan Capistrano 949-542-7799

Thomas P. Rose Fountain Valley 714-964-0021

NEWPORT ORAL SURGERY

The new year is bringing exciting changes to Newport Oral Surgery. One change that arrived last July is that Dr. Ouzhan B. Kalantari, DDS, MD joined the practice. Dr. Kalantari earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the UCLA School of Dentistry and his Medical Degree (MD) as well as his Oral Surgery certificate at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

When searching for a practice to join, Newport Oral Surgery was the perfect fit. “I was drawn to the scope of oral surgeries— from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) to orthognathic surgery for jaw disorders,” Dr. Kalantari says. Newport Oral Surgery also performs wisdom tooth and dental extractions, bone grafting, facial injuries and tooth fractures. Cuttingedge technology is used for dental implants by pairing the X-Guide surgical system with 3D Cone Beam imaging for accurate and precise placement. The practice will be adding new technology, with a 3D printer joining the 3D imaging techniques currently used.

Newport Oral Surgery’s team of maxillofacial surgeons is headquartered in two locations. Dr. Kalantari joined Vivian Jui,

DDS, in the Irvine office. Thomas R. Michaelis, DDS, MD, and Ryan M. Kriwanek, DDS, MD, are based out of the Newport Beach location. What to be on the lookout for in 2023—a move to a new Irvine office in May. “We’re doubling in size, expanding from three operating rooms to six,” Dr. Kalantari says.

Additionally, Dr. Kalantari says, “All four partners take trauma calls at the Hoag Hospitals, where Dr. Kriwanek is the head of the oral surgery department. This is another aspect of working with Newport Oral Surgery that helps me fulfill my goal of serving the community.”

Simon Shung Irvine 949-264-3314

Noland D. Soo Huntington Beach 714-842-7775

Heidi Starnes Newport Beach 949-720-8145

Mario Tai Irvine 949-892-6888

Sophia Updike Irvine 949-870-9713

Steven R. Wynn Newport Beach 949-642-2626

James J. Zahrowski Tustin 714-544-5345

Pediatric Dentistry

Azi Ardakani Laguna Hills 949-342-1484

Robin Reiko Arita Huntington Beach 714-968-8989

Tina Azin Rancho Santa Margarita 949-709-5437

Jaclyn W. Bae (Hui) Yorba Linda 714-660-1890

Dimitri G. Bizoumis Huntington Beach 714-898-3882

Leslie Butler Fullerton 714-680-9500

Kent Do Santa Ana 714-557-5437

Nasem Dunlop Foothill Ranch 949-668-0686

Bozhena Fisher Newport Beach 949-640-0501

John Guijon Huntington Beach 714-847-2566

Geoffrey M. Hersch Newport Beach 949-644-0611

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 well-being can never be underestimated again. We are proud to announce that we will be offering COVID-19 vaccinations at our offi ce and through a mobile vaccination program to help fl atten 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.

Brian Hong Fullerton 714-992-5437

Phyllis Kawada La Habra 562-690-3750

Ilhyun Kim San Juan Capistrano 949-786-1383

Quy Nguyen Kim Fountain Valley 714-549-0911

Steven T. Le Westminster 714-766-4411

Tra Le Tustin 714-368-3334

Yvonne Lee Irvine 949-786-0800

Clara Lee Irvine 949-786-0800

Richard Lee Fullerton 714-992-5437

Jacob Lee San Clemente 949-361-2838

Kathleen S. Lim Tustin 714-838-9120

Christian Lopez Newport Beach 949-777-5902

Rabin Marfatia Irvine 949-299-1111

Laura McCormack Irvine 949-252-9950

Richard P. Mungo Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Jeanne Nguyen Rancho Santa Margarita 949-858-5150

David H. Okawachi Anaheim 714-635-1170

Lydia Park Huntington Beach 714-841-4990

Maryam M. Pearose Foothill Ranch 949-716-2800

Mary R. Pham

Placentia 714-528-8252

Shiva Roghani Tustin 714-832-1343

Brian J. Saunders Yorba Linda 714-996-2200

Amit A. Shah Huntington Beach 714-698-9950

Graciela Sullivan Huntington Beach 714-377-2628

Eddie Surger Newport Beach 949-640-0501

Samuel Wu Mission Viejo 949-594-3881

Shaul Yehezkel Irvine 949-559-0674

2023

TOP

DENTIST

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

Periodontics

Michael Almaraz Newport Beach 949-640-9475

Akemi Arzouman Orange 714-744-9100

Michael J. Arzouman Orange 714-744-9100

Ayman A. Balshe Anaheim 714-998-2956

Steven J. Bounds Irvine 949-857-1053

Justin M. Braga Huntington Beach 714-587-9094

Nicholas Caplanis Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

John M. Cargasacchi Cerritos 562-865-0196

Donald S. Clem III Fullerton 714-441-0436

Calvin Dang Torrance 310-530-7011

Fartash Farkhondehkish Laguna Hills 949-770-0548

Rebecca Hart Tustin 714-544-2220

Patrick L. Huston Tustin 714-730-7877

Kian Kar Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

Ramtin Khaef Cypress 714-581-8585

Luis Kim Newport Beach 949-644-0680

Clara Kim Irvine 714-368-3319

Cliff Lee Orange 714-637-1600

Sheldon Lu Tustin 714-835-4441

Iman Madi Mission Viejo 949-830-1322

James Mata Santa Ana 714-556-5156

Jeffrey J. Mccullough Los Alamitos 714-484-8700

Marlene A. Miller Tustin 714-544-5337

Mark J. Redd

Peter A. Russo Huntington Beach 714-842-2515

Ajay B. Setya Mission Viejo 949-482-6089

Stephen Shepherd Tustin 714-544-2220

Coury Staadecker Newport Beach 949-386-8911

Nelson T. Yen Fullerton 714-441-0436

Prosthodontics

Stephen G. Alfano Newport Beach 949-205-1259

Jesse Duncan Newport Beach 949-220-0475

Anthony P. Gabriel

Antoanela Garbacea Laguna Hills 949-951-7988

Mark A. George Orange 714-953-1000

Gregory Guichet Orange 714-771-7555

Daniel Kantarovich Orange 714-953-1000 ext. 2

James W. Kim Irvine 714-368-3319

Nelson Lowe Santa Ana 714-550-7474

Gianmarco O’Brien Orange 714-953-1000

Kent T. Ochiai Tustin 714-542-9606

Robert L. Simon

DINING GUIDE

ORANGE COUNTY’S DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR RESTAURANT NEWS & MINI REVIEWS

PRICING $$$ $50 and up $$ Less than $50 $ mostly under $25

Denotes Critic’s Choice Restaurant

URBANA

ANAHEIM

BARAN MEDITERRANEAN

RESTAURANT & BAR

Straight-up classic Persian cuisine is the draw at this fresh and stylish spot. Expect fragrant stews, elaborate rice dishes, and, of course, succulent kebabs and mountains of fluffy basmati rice. Don’t miss zeytoon parvardeh (stuffed olives) or a filet mignon kebab. Inviting patio and full bar. 5645 E. La Palma Ave., 714-340-0035 $$

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 $$$

ROXY’Z

Zov’s Anaheim resurfaced as this breezy watering hole inspired by Zov Karamardian’s mother and reputed renegade Roxy. Craft cocktails, imaginative share plates, and premier pizzas dominate a menu designed for gathering before or after games, concerts, and Disneyland visits. Don’t-miss dishes include the chile-glazed rib stack, fried chicken sandwich, and kebab platter. There’s an elevated beer program and a midweek happy hour. 1801 E. Katella Ave., 714-280-9687. $$

This colorful latecomer to 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. $$

BREA

BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN

One of North County’s best venues boasts advantages that are fairly 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. A notable happy hour features steep discounts on terrific appetizers and signature Italian cocktails. 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000. $$

OUR CRITERIA

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. $$$

TAPS FISH HOUSE & BREWERY

Taps continues to be O.C.’s landmark pick for dining on a wide range of appealing seafood, pasta, steaks, and spunky New Orleans specialties that go down well with award-winning ales and lagers that change often. Happy hour is a big draw for value-seekers. Sunday brunch is a popular feast. 101 E. Imperial Highway, 714-257-0101. $$

CORONA DEL MAR

608 DAHLIA

Chef-owner Jessica Roy transformed the alfresco gem inside iconic Sherman Library & Gardens with a new name and joyous take on seasonal fare. Dreamy salads are impeccably fresh, pastas imaginative, and vegetarian tacos are a signature dish in the making. Effusive wine cocktails. 2647 E. Coast Highway, 949-220-7229. Lunch only. $$

CDM RESTAURANT

The successful team behind much-loved A Restaurant pounced on the defunct Crow Bar, retooling it with scraped light-wood floors, peacock-blue velvet booths, leather chairs, and a free-standing, alwaysbusy bar. The kitchen takes on seasonal, contemporary American fare. Think a trio of unexpectedly sublime pizzas. Ethereal Parker House rolls. A killer Niman Ranch pork chop. 2325 E. Coast Highway, 949-287-6600. $$$

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 and busiest enterprise yet, 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

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.

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 comeas-you-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 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 ]

BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2022

Chef-owner Jeoffrey Offer—native of Toulouse, France, and son of a butcher—brought his pandemic dream to life with this intimate spot focused on steaks, chops, and scratch sausages. Eight specialty sauces are house-made to suit meats and starters. Wood-grilled options range from a mighty fine burger to a grand aged ribeye for two. The tidy bar boasts a kitchen view, and the patio offers a quiet alternative to the lively hubbub of a packed house. Weekend brunch stars Offer’s distinct take on croque madame and steak and eggs. There’s also a succinct wine list. 3321 Hyland Ave., 714-714-0662.

$$$

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 high-ceilinged 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 seasons 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. $$$

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

GLASSPAR

Glasspar launched as a classic seafooder, oyster bar, and tap room. Veteran top toque and local Rob Wilson helms his dream retool of the old Mahé site, supporting the community with ultra-fresh fare, delicious dishes, and his five-star service. A tight focus on top-shelf cocktails lures groups who want to gather for toasting. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$

RAYA

Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this poshbut-relaxed 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. $$$

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

INI RISTORANTE

Booked solid in its early months, Ini weaves Japanese flavors and ingredients into classic Italian fare. Think branzino with yuzu beurre blanc, udon carbonara, or chicken curry pizza. The latest from jug-

gernaut Kei Concepts (Vox Kitchen, Kin Craft Ramen, Nep Café), Ini shines with novel but approachable dishes, consistently executed. Polished cocktails and stylish desserts. 16129 Brookhurst St., 714-2774046, $$$

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 smallbatch, 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. $$$

HUNTINGTON BEACH

BLUEGOLD

Pacific City’s glassy, glossy 230-seat venue delivers the paint-box sunsets sought by tourists, date-nighters, and special-occasion splurgers looking to dine with a dazzling view. Alas, Blackhouse Hospitality’s first O.C. effort tackles a disparate menu of American fare, from steaks to steam kettles to Nea-style pizza—even oysters and charcuterie. Local vet Tin Vuong oversees a promising kitchen that is sometimes over its head. Solid bets include pizzas, lamb meatballs, and duck confit Milanese. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-3740038. $$$

Prosciutto salad at Ini Ristorante

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

NEW NOODLES | MIÀN

Fans of iconic Sichuan destination Chengdu Taste and its James Beard Award-nominated chef, Tony Xu, celebrate the opening of Miàn at South Coast Plaza. Decor is mostly contemporary but features an engaging, more traditional mural filled with sea creatures and a devil. The format improves on fast-casual: Parties are seated first, peruse the menu at leisure, then order from the table via bar code. The restaurant’s full name is Miàn Sichuan Gourmet Noodle; miàn is Chinese for “noodle.” Noodle dishes run a gamut from Sichuan cold noodles to vegan

HENRY’S COASTAL CUISINE

This Surf City resort’s fine dining choice prevails with expertly executed fare that’s mostly familiar and gorgeously presented. Goat cheese fudge is a surprising outlier on a tight menu of classics, some worthy of special occasions—think lobster bisque and cotê de boeuf for two. Polished service. Live music. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-8000. Dinner only $$$$

KAI

NEW Pacific City’s stylish top-floor newbie is an ode to Japanese sushi, whisky, and Asian fusion fare by Executive Chef Tin Nguyen of its sibling shop, Shorebird. Look for share plates that include watermelon salad, sticky ribs, robata, and indulgent wagyu steaks. Ambitious sushi program.

mapo tofu to spicy beef-rib soup; chile-oil dumplings are another highlight. Starters include the so-called Thousand Year Egg, attractively presented atop tofu, as well as spicy-and-sweet radishes and spicy black mushrooms. Most dishes can be ordered from mild to extra-spicy; distinctive avors come from mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorns and fiery chile oil. Find Miàn directly below Din Tai Fung and adjacent to Marugame Udon. Its sibling location in the San Gabriel Valley has earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-265-7997

— BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

Terrific cocktails by Topher Bray served until late night. 21010 Pacific Coast Highway, 657-259-0010 $$

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. $$

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. $

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. $$$

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, 949419-0100. See Costa Mesa location. $$$

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 bánh mìs 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. $$$

PORCH & SWING

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. 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. $

BEST NEW

RESTAURANT 2021

This delightful indie serves a “taste of Charleston” starring original riffs 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. $$

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 BEACH

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. $$$

Ultimate Flexibility

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO

This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Margarita’s sprawling shop, but both offer top-notch 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, 949-715-7700. $$

NICK’S

Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grownups 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. Sociable service is notably polished. 440 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-8595. 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 CELLAR 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. $$$

SELANNE 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 watch-

ing. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$

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, Zinfandel-braised lamb shank with mint yogurt. Terrific craft drinks shift with the seasons. On-point service from a gracious crew. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-446-8772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL

BOTTEGA ANGELINA

This chic Italian is a grand showpiece by the team behind Pizzeria Angelina. House-made pastas, roasted meats, and pizzas share a succinct menu, supported by sophisticated cocktails from an imposing marble bar. Vast patio with dazzling views. A piccolo store sells pantry goods and gelatos. 32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220. $$$

CALO KITCHEN + TEQUILA

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 wor-

thy 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, 949-409-7380. $$$

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, 949248-1912. $$

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. $

Gorditas at Calo Kitchen + Tequila

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

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 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. $$$

NEWPORT BEACH

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

43 YEARS

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 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 cannoli 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, 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 substitu-

tions, no reservations, and snappy service. Standouts include tian Provençal, beef bourguignon, and profiteroles. 1000 N. Bristol, 949-418-9549. $$

THE CANNERY

The 1921 landmark structure has dazzled diners for more than 50 years with its waterfront site, pristine seafood, and top chops. Executive chef Marcus Hagan keeps the menu relevant by adding new dishes, say baked Peruvian scallops, to classics such as the trusted lobster roll. Also check out The Snug, a cozy bar downstairs, carved from the main dining room. Dockside dining offered for boaters. 3010 Lafayette Road, 949-566-0060. $$$

EDDIE V’S WILDFISH

Wildfish lures a loyal following. The finely calibrated menu of pristine seafood and first-class steaks keeps the glossy room and fireplace patio hopping, especially for nightly happy hour deals when upscale locals crowd the sleek bar. Urbane service. 1370 Bison Ave., 949-720-9925. $$$

FABLE & SPIRIT

Orange county’s most unique shopping experience

RESTAURANTS

17th Street Grill

714.730.0003

Belacan Grill

MALAYSIAN BISTRO

714.505.9908

The Coffee Grinder

714.838.0960

The Crab Cooker

714.573.1077

El Torito 714.838.6630

Zov’s Bakery & Café

714.838.8855

Zov’s Bistro

714.838.8855

SERVICES

VALENTINE’S DINNER FOR TWO* A $200 VALUE

DINE AT ONE OF OUR 5 FAMOUS RESTAURANTS. You will automatically be entered into our drawing when you shop for your sweetheart at any of our fabulous stores between January 17 through February 8. Receive an entry ticket with each purchase, so the more you shop the better your chances to win!

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17th Street

Optometry OPTOMETRY

714.838.9664

Fancy Nails

714.730.4722

Fitness Fixe

714.838.5751

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2020

From the family behind Dublin 4 comes this lush addition to the area 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. $$$

Fusion Hair

714.838.6000

Hair Industry

The Salon

714.731.2530

Rebecca Pelletier Interiors

714.508.8581

Studio J PILATES

714.721.1163

Tustin Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

714.544.5341

Winston’s Estate Gallery

714.508.0100

FASHION A Perfect Fit

FINE LINGERIE

714.665.5994

Frank’s Menswear

714.730.5945

La Galleria ELEGANT WOMEN’S APPAREL

714.544.6340

Tina Marie’s BRIGHTON COLLECTION

714.505.1676

Touch of Class Refinery

714.734.7749

SPECIALTY

AA Jewel Box

714.669.9966

Charleston Provence BOUTIQUE

714.508.8581

Chemers Gallery

714.731.5432

Deckers Fine Gifts

714.832.7074

Discoveries CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS

714.544.6206

H. Foster & Jackson

714.544.4635

Justin Porterfield, Ltd. 714.544.5223

714.731.2911

GULFSTREAM

Heavenly biscuits, baked to order, and pristine oysters, shucked to order (in season), are two reasons to visit this popular bar and restaurant. The sandfloor patio with glowing fire pit attracts singles, while the ocean-fresh fare draws foodies. If freshly caught seafood doesn’t appeal, there are terrestrial dishes such as mustard barbecue beef ribs. 850 Avocado Ave., 949-718-0188. $$$

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. $$

MALIBU

FARM LIDO

Malibu farm girl and native Swede Helene Henderson adds another ocean-air venue for colorful organic fare. The all-day menu boasts fat burritos, fruit-covered grain, or yogurt bowls and savory options that include the bestseller, an outstanding fried egg sandwich with great bacon and Havarti on country toast with lemon aioli. Multigrain pancakes are worthy, but Swedish mini pancakes with berries and cream are stupendous. 3420 Via Oporto, 949-791-2096. $$

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 (not reviewed) in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$

OLEA CELLAR 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, 949-2876807. Dinner only. $$$

SESSIONS

This busy “West Coast deli” on the peninsula crafts terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two. Gourmet creations with kooky names are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. 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. 327 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-3622. $$$

TACO ROSA

With agave-sweetened margaritas and housemade churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949-720-0980. 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 tweaked for 2020. Standout 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. $$$

NEWPORT 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, especially in summer. Stick with basics such as grilled artichokes, lobster club, and stuffed salmon. Executive chef Carlos Olivera oversees the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that change slightly each season. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$

BLUEFIN

Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gorgeous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The setting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Superior sake selection. 7952 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 949-715-7373. $$$

Duroc pork chop at Shorebird

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

MARCHÉ MODERNE

ORANGE

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2018

The finest French bistro south of Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs 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, 714434-7900. $$$

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 orange. 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 stand out. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin location. $$$

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 Parmesan-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. $$

GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

Gabbi Patrick grew up working in her family’s Mexican restaurants, then studied at the Greystone Culinary Academy in Napa. The menu reveals her formal training as it embraces her family’s background. With items such as gorditas al pastor (masa cakes with Kurobuta pork belly and a pineapple-onion relish), Patrick’s plates celebrate simple, honest flavors. 141 S. Glassell St., 714-633-3038. $$

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. $$

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

GEMA

Executive Chef Juan Pablo Cruz and owner Sarah Resendiz have created a new top tier for Mexican dining at this hip dinner house featuring Cruz’s menu of deeply considered seasonal dishes that marry ingredients from Mexico with local organic produce and proteins. Look for hazelnut-crusted chile relleno with quesillo cheese and huitlacoche; tamarind adobo wagyu steak; and sublime mole. Craft cocktails, Baja wines, and a peerless

mezcal library also shine. 110 South El Camino Real, 714-640-9371, $$

IVA LEE’S

Deep South and down-home despite the modern exterior, the Southern-Creole eats here are designed to help diners relax and let the good times roll. 555 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2855. Dinner only. $$$

MRK PUBLIC

Three chefs, two of them former co-chefs at Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach, transform a fast-casual fixture into a winning spot that offers craft beers, all $5, and a tightly edited menu of elevated favorites, notably Tuscan toast, and a terrific fried chicken sandwich. The rear counter offers a distant ocean view. 1402 S. El Camino Real, 949-441-7621. Beer and wine. $

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 all-day 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, 949-4812200. 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 CAPISTRANO

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 shareable dips. By day, look for indulgent brunch dishes. 31761 Camino Capistrano, 949-218-5140. $$$

PUBLIC 74

This county-line gastropub radiates a welcoming vibe that attracts customers of all types to its faux-ramshackle chic, second-story venue. Craft brews, booze, and decidedly eclectic eats change often, as executive chef Gerry Kent keeps the smallish menu seasonal. Definitely consider the twohanded Reuben, and there’s a seasonal monster burger. 27211 Ortega Highway, 949-481-2723. $$

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. Contempo-

rary 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. And don’t miss the killer bloody mary. 31752 Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$

SANTA ANA [

BENCHMARK

nightly and Sunday brunch. Commendable drinks. 400 N. Broadway, 714-852-3256. $$

EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

Quirky and 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. $$

CHAPTER ONE

The diverse crowd here drinks with gusto as proved by the enduring fame of its Moscow Mule, made with fresh-daily house ginger beer. Best bets include daily specials, unique hooch pours, and weekend brunch. 227 N. Broadway, 714-352-2225. $$

CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL

This intrepid Mexican canteen offers less-familiar dishes—corundas, roast quail—alongside comfort favorites such as ceviche and chilaquiles. Michoacán native Sergio Ortega previously of Descanso, is executive chef. Inaugural meals include dinner

Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe fromMexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde Also impressive: crisp tacos ahogado in hot broth. We loved the guajillo salsa-soaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch. Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. The vintage site with soaring ceilings seats 115 and boasts modern artwork. Expect kind, unflappable service. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$

LOLA GASPAR

Offbeat but not outlandish, this Artists Village indie draws an eclectic crowd for creative cocktails and lusty pub grub, often with a Latin twist. Inside, the quarters are dark and chummy, while the Euro-esque patio opens to the village promenade. 211 W. Second St., 714-972-1172. $$

MIX MIX KITCHEN BAR

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2017

DTSA got a major dining upgrade with this winner from chef-owner 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

Osso buco at Mayfield

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

charred pineapple. Spiffy craft cocktails, too. 300 N. Main St., 714-836-5158. Dinner only. $$$

SOUTH COAST METRO

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 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. $$$

ANTONELLO RISTORANTE

For more than three decades South Coast Plaza’s Italian grand diva has reigned for ultrafine feasting on authentic, traditional dishes backed by a savvy wine selection deep with Italian stars. House-made pastas, breads, and desserts. The restaurant’s aura of privilege is underscored by pampering service for VIPs. A full-service wine bar is the latest update. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-751-7153. $$$

THE CAPITAL GRILLE

Florida’s Darden Group (parent of downstairs restaurant Seasons 52) takes on an increasing amount of square footage at South Coast Plaza with this upscale, 400-plus-seat steakhouse. Despite an emphasis on dry-aged steaks and seafood classics, some of the best dishes are lunch items, appetizers, and desserts. Gracious service, plush surroundings, and a deep, steep wine list. 3333 Bristol St., 714-432-1140. $$$

DARYA

Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebabs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$

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. $$

HAMAMORI

Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza penthouse dazzler of a sushi bar. Son Jim is now behind the bar, too, but this heavenly venue also shows off non-sushi dishes such as uni floating in edamame puree, Kobe rissole, and miso-marinated lamb chops. Omakase is truly top-notch. 3333 Bear St., 714-850-0880. $$$

KNIFE PLEAT

South Coast Plaza’s rarefied penthouse shines brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelin-acclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to see stars again with this radiant backdrop for Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hos-

pitality. Look for butter-poached lobster, forest mushroom melange, and the signature legumes de saison when nature allows. Save room for Germain Biotteau’s inimitable desserts. Friday and Saturday night tasting menus are utterly indulgent. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. Closed Sunday and Monday.

$$$

OUTPOST KITCHEN

A native of Australia’s Gold Coast, founder Jay Lewis brings a surf culture vibe and his passion for clean eats to this location of the daytime cafe. Slick and sun splashed, the new venue adds cocktails to a site ideal for pre-theater dining or a breezy patio brunch with friends. Best bites include berry pancakes and the Kingswood lamb sandwich, as well as smoothies and bowls. 3420 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-852-3044 $$

PARADISE DYNASTY

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 $$

POPULAIRE

Showing loads of promise, this modern bistro is the new dream collaboration of veteran chefs and longtime friends Nick Weber and Ross Pangilinan (owner of nearby Terrace by Mix Mix). The setting and the fare are at once elevated and lighthearted. Look for innovative French, Asian, and American flourish in dishes that include crab chawanmushi, roast duck, and the yowza Royale With Cheese burger. There’s a prix fixe midweek lunch and special brunch dishes on Sunday. 3333 Bristol St., 714-760-4555 $$$

RITTER’S STEAM KETTLE COOKING

Chef-partner Mike Ritter and crew create Cajun-Creole magic in 12 steam-heated steel caldrons that cook seductive versions of gumbo, chowder, and the legendary pan poast—a heady concoction of various shellfish bubbling in a rich sauce of cream, tomato, and secret spices, topped with a dome of perfect jasmine rice—that’s by far the bestselling dish. And don’t miss the mean po’ boy sandwich. 1421 W. MacArthur Blvd., 714-850-1380. Beer and wine. $$

ROYAL KHYBER

Arun Puri, the creator behind Orange County’s first Indian restaurant, is still buying the spices and manning the tandoor oven in the skilled kitchen at this upscale choice for first-rate renditions of classics such as butter chicken, tikka masala, and the signature Khyber’s Nectar, a dish of slow-cooked

Hamachi ceviche at Chato’s Bar and Grill

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

lamb shanks said to be an aphrodisiac. 1621 W. Sunflower Ave., 714-436-1010. $$

TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR

South Coast Plaza’s shiny new addition categorizes its cuisine as New American—a hazy designation for chef-owner John Park’s canny brunch and dinner menus that defy easy labels. Think fried burrata sandwich with pumpkin seed pesto, souffle-light berry pancakes with chamomile whipped cream, and shrimp and grits with surprise slices of lap cheong. Desserts are dazzlers. Captivating cocktails. 3333 Bear St., 714-872-8054. $$

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, dryaged in-house. Dinner tables at prime times are scarce, so plan, wait, or aim for lunch. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$

TRABUCO CANYON

TRABUCO OAKS STEAKHOUSE

This favorite of Nixon’s, where they will cut off your tie and keep it as part of the decor, is 100 percent serious when it comes to steaks: Choice cuts are well-aged and mesquite-charcoal grilled to order. From the 2-pound cowboy steak to the 8-ounce filet mignon, the smoky, charred flavor shines through in every bite. Small but select wine list of California superstars. 20782 Trabuco Oaks Drive, 949-586-0722. Dinner only. $$

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., 714-2588817. $$

CHAAK

Gabbi and Ed Patrick of Gabbi’s Kitchen chose Old Town to show off the county’s most sophisticated take on the regional fare of Mexico’s wondrous Yucatán Peninsula, naming their new location after the Mayan rain god. The dazzling space features a retractable roof and sliding Roman shades to lovely effect. Must-have dishes include sikil pec, a roasted pumpkin seed

dip, as well as cochinita pibil and carne cruda. A 16-seat bar invites lingering over elaborate drinks or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$

ROMA D’ ITALIA

Old Town’s durable red-sauce joint keeps fans coming for family-recipe meatballs, pizzas, parmigianas, and pastas. Casual digs include the red-checked tablecloths, and shakers of crushed pepper. Good for groups and speedy work lunches. 611 El Camino Real, 714-544-0273. $

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. If the 7,500-bottle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$

THE YELLOW CHILLI

The Yellow Chilli is another franchise by Sanjeev Kapoor, India’s mega-celebrity chef. Bigger than Wolfgang or Martha. The massive menu proves the master chef isn’t stingy with recipes, not after writing more than 150 cookbooks. Knowledgeable servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera, one of Kapoor’s most famous cre-

ations: 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 mezze starters. The patio cafe out back stays busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855. See Newport Coast location. $$$

YORBA LINDA

BLUE AGAVE

Southwestern favorites, from tamales to carnitas, and mole enchiladas in generous portions, keep regulars coming back. For something different, try the Puerto Nuevo tostada with shrimp, mahimahi, sour cream, and raspberries in a pumpkin seed-citrus dressing. 18601 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714970-5095. $$

THE WILD ARTICHOKE

Chef-owner James D’Aquila and his winsome crew raise the culinary bar at this teensy, modest storefront. Expect skillful, gourmet incarnations of comfort fare, such as pasta Bolognese. Desserts are few but mighty. 4973 Yorba Ranch Road, 714-777-9646. Beer and wine. Dinner only. $$

Chicken and waffles at Tableau Kitchen and Bar

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

THE ANNUAL LIST OF TOP ATTORNEYS

BENTLEY & MORE LLP

Focused on clients, tenacious in the courtroom and tough in negotiations, the award-winning lawyers at Bentley & More LLP deliver for consumers, injury victims and employees.

With a record of hundreds of millions of dollars in awards and settlements, the firm represents clients across many practice areas, including insurance bad faith, catastrophic personal injury, product liability, workers’ compensation and government entity liability. The firm specializes in difficult “crossover” matters that require expertise across practice areas, including thorny issues of insurance coverage in personal injury matters and cases that combine elements of workers’ compensation and third-party liability.

Four firm attorneys have been selected to this year’s Southern California Super Lawyers list, including founding partners Greg Bentley and Keith More who are both honorees for the 14th year.

L to R: Sam Hibbs, Dane Gilliam, Farnaz Salessi (seated), Steve Schuetze, Matt Clark, Greg Bentley*, Keith More*, Jose Gonzalez*, Clare Lucich* (seated), Jaimi Groothuis, Nico Mamone, Braydon Bentley *Selected to Super Lawyers

BURKHALTER

KESSLER CLEMENT

& GEORGE LLP A PEERLESS FIGHTER FOR BUSINESS

Burkhalter Kessler Clement & George LLP is in Southern California, having won more than $130 million in jury verdicts alone.

“We are what I call an ‘outsized unicorn,’” says partner Alton Burkhalter, who is also a

businesses and high-net-worth individuals throughout Southern California, and the

results include verdicts of $70 million in an accounting case and $30 million in an eminent domain case, while defense results include a defense verdict on racial harassment claims, squashing a $30 million breach of contract suit and a defense verdict in a multimillion

routinely represents tens of millions of dollars in real estate transactions.

These multiple award-winning attorneys focus on business disputes, litigation defense and general counsel for employers, commercial and high-end real estate litigation and transactions, investment litigation, auto dealership law and estate planning.

Alton G. Burkhalter

L to R: Gregory M. Clement*, Joshua A. Waldman*, Alton G. Burkhalter*, Daniel J. Kessler* *Selected to Super Lawyers

Meyer, Olson, Lowy & Meyers,

LOS ANGELES / IRVINE

Leaders in Resolving High-Stakes Divorces

The legal team of Meyer, Olson, Lowy & Meyers (MOLM) has built a national reputation for tenacious representation in family law litigation, particularly complex and contentious divorces.

handling cases that involve high-asset marital estates, child custody matters, domestic violence

skilled and experienced attorneys bring a combination of legal sophistication and empathy

**CHOSEN TO 2022 RISING STARS

***CHOSEN TO 2019-2022 RISING STARS

to their clients, who include entertainers, executives, professionals and pro athletes.

outside the courtroom, but they also have a track record of impressive trial work. This includes handling a groundbreaking California case establishing that vested stock options should be

and a case involving an international move-away request for a parent with a minor child.

Lisa Helfend Meyer Dana Lowy Felicia R. Meyers Doreen Marie Olson Craig S. Pedersen

Lisa Helfend Meyer

CALIFORNIA TOP 50 WOMEN

SEATED L-R: Dana Lowy*, Lisa Helfend Meyer*, Felicia R. Meyers*, Doreen Marie Olson*

STANDING L-R: Anne Nakornratana Slusser*, Marc H. Garelick*, Brittney A. Rodriguez**, Craig S. Pedersen*, Alyssa Dickerson**, Amy Stallard Kapner***

*CHOSEN TO SUPER LAWYERS

CALLAHAN & BLAINE SANTA

During the last 38 years, 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 and commercial litigation, catastrophic personal injury and insurance law.”

Established in 1984, Callahan & Blaine has 26 world-class business litigation trial attorneys with over 700 years of combined experience, including senior trial partners Michael Sachs, Brian McCormack, Javier Van Oordt and David Darnell. In fact, all 26 of Callahan & Blaine’s attorneys have at least 7 years’ experience, and the large majority have more than 15 years’ experience.

Callahan & Blaine has a broad range of historic results. Most notable is the firm’s $934 million

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

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 the largest personal injury settlement 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 six attorneys selected to Super Lawyers in 2023, 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.

NOT PICTURED: Stephen E. Blaine*

Edward Susolik

Stephen E. Blaine

Brian J. McCormack

Javier H.

Van Oordt Michael J.Sachs

SELECTION PROCESS

Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented multiphase 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.

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

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

visit SuperLawyers.com

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

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.

OUR PATENTED SELECTION PROCESS

NOMINATIONS

Diverse list of the top attorneys nominated by their own peers

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH

Evaluated by third-party research across 12 key categories

PEER EVALUATION

Reviewed by a highly credentialed Blue Ribbon Panel of attorneys

FINAL SELECTION

2.5% of attorneys selected to Rising Stars

5% of attorneys selected to Super Lawyers

*U.S. Pat. No. 8,412,564

*Chosen to 2009-2023 Super Lawyers

**Chosen to 2016-2023 Super Lawyers

†Chosen to 2023 Super Lawyers ‡Chosen to 2019-2022 Rising Stars

^Chosen to 2021-2022 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 $60,000,000 for their clients last year 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, Brian and Matt are all Southern California Super Lawyers honorees. Travis is a 2022 Rising Stars honoree for the fourth year, and Gabriel Mendoza is a 2022 Rising Stars Honoree for the second year.

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 Official Personal Injury Attorneys of the Anaheim Ducks and partners of the Los Angeles Angels.

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. While the Eastons use their familial cohesion to get remarkable results for their clients in all manner of accident cases (car accidents, slip and fall, etc.), the power of this synergy was recently exhibited best when they acquired $26,000,000 for a construction site injury. The defendants initially tried to avoid liability by arguing they were a coemployer of the plaintiff, but the Eastons were able to use those arguments against them to increase their liability and compel the full $26,000,000policy limits tender shortly before trial.

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 and was chosen as the Best Law Firm in Orange County for 2022 by the OC Register Readers’ Choice Poll.

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

Sitting L-R: Mani Navab, Travis Easton‡, Matt Easton†, Gabriel Mendoza^ Standing L-R: Steven Dominguez, Brian Easton**, Doug Easton*, Brenda Kocaj

Official Personal Injury Attorneys of the Anaheim Ducks

Doug Easton

Abel, Joshua, Abel Law Offices, Irvine

Aitken, Darren

Aitken, Wylie A.

Bentley, Gregory L.

Briggs, Steven E.

Brown, Matt

Bruno, Keith J.

Burke, Sean M.

Burkhalter, Alton G.

Djang, Caroline R.

Ezra, David B.

Friedland, Todd G.

Garner, Scott B.

Gibson, Robert B.

Golden, Jeffrey I.

Golubow, Richard H.

Hodes, Daniel Martin

Hollander, Garrick A.

Hueston, John C.

Jayakumar, Jehan N.

Johnson, Casey R. Kazerounian, Abbas

Keller, Jennifer L. Kessler, Daniel J.

Klein, Gerald A.

LeBoff, Michael S. Ly, Geraldine Milman, Jeffrey A.

Minyard, Mark E.

More, Keith P. Morris, Michael A. Parke, James R.

Roberts, Jeffrey

Robinson, Daniel S.

Robinson, Jr., Mark P.

Seastrom, Brian

Seastrom, Philip G. Irvine

Simon, Craig S.

Stegmeier, Eleanor A. Benavente, Irvine

Stephens, John B.

Sugden, David

Susolik, Edward

Taggart, Craig A.

Torkzadeh, Reza

Tuttle, Thomas W.

West, Michelle Marie

Whyte, Nicole

Wilson, Mark B.

Winthrop, Marc J.

Zipser, Dean J.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2023

THE ANNUAL LIST

BY PRIMARY AREA OF PRACTICE

The list was finalized as of June 2, 2022. 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 for attorneys with paid Super Lawyers or Rising Stars print advertisements.

ADMINISTRATIVE LAW

McCroskey, Miranda, Unlock Legal, Tustin

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Coviello, Robert D., ADR Services, Irvine Gray, Geoffrey Kuhn, Steven

LaBelle, Lance, ADR Services, Irvine Marlin, Louis M., Louis Marlin Mediation, Irvine

Pistone, Thomas A.

Rabin, Byron

Reinglass, Michelle A.

Vilendrer, Ellie K. Wagner, John Leo

ANIMAL LAW

Montevideo, John Michael , Montevideo Law dba

ANTITRUST LITIGATION

Mulcahy, James M.

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

APPELLATE

Dato, Robert M.

Dodd, John L. Dunn, Jr., E. Thomas

Evanson, Blaine H. Irvine

Fuller, Marjorie G.

Kowal, Tim

Saylin, Brian G.

Sungaila, Mary-Christine “M.C.”

BANKING

Wolfe, Stuart B.

BANKRUPTCY: BUSINESS

Andrassy, Kyra E.

Barbarosh, Craig A. Irvine

Bello, Reem

Canty Murphey, Meghan

Casey, Thomas

Djang, Caroline R.

Forsythe, Marc C.

Garza, Oscar

Golden, Jeffrey I.

Golubow, Richard H.

Goodrich, David M.

Grimshaw, Matthew W.

Haes, Chad V.

Hollander, Garrick A.

Lianides, Peter W.

Lobel, William N.

Malo, Aaron J.

Marticello, Robert S.

O’Keefe, Sean A. Irvine

Opera, Robert E.

Perry Isaacson, Misty A., Pagter and Perry

Ramsaur, Brett

Ringstad, Todd

Sanders, Nanette D.

Wall, William J.

Winthrop, Marc J.

Wood, David A.

BANKRUPTCY: CONSUMER

Causey, Desiree V.

Heston, Richard G.

Bridging the Gap

Domestically and Internationally

When attorneys Simon Khinda and Lalit Kundani merged their two practices, they had no idea just how eponymous Bridge Law, LLP would turn out to be, quite literally.

Since then, the OC-based boutique law firm they have built has expanded its legal footprint into virtually every continent as private client advisors and cross-border tax specialists. Whether an estate planning issue, a corporate restructure, a liquidity exit, or all the above, the firm has been brought in by nationally recognized advisors including global accounting firms to build simple and effective solutions for their ultra-high-net-worth individual and corporate clients.

Simon is a deal maker in every respect. He is general counsel to Europe’s premium chocolatier, regularly serves as lead counsel in blockbuster M&A deals, advises private equity firms, and provides the Annual Business Law Update for the Continuing Education of the Bar.

Back Row: Jyotika Agnihotri, Sabina Chopra, Elaina Espitia, Shannon Beardmore

Front Row:

Simon Khinda**, Lalit Kundani*

*Super Lawyers Honoree

**2022 Rising Stars Honoree

Lalit leads the firm’s award-winning estate planning and tax team. His impressive list of clients includes actors, VCs, government officials, judges, and even fellow lawyers who have come to trust his counsel when it comes to wealth transfer and tax minimization strategies. A decorated former trial lawyer, seeing around corners is his secret sauce. With another standout year, Lalit is grateful to be named once again as a 2023 Southern California Super Lawyers honoree and Simon as a 2022 Rising Stars honoree. 155

BUSINESS LITIGATION

Abdollahi, Panteha

Abel, Joshua

Aitken, Darren

Aljian, Reed

Anderle, Kay, Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700

Ashley, A. Matthew

Bertram, Christy L.

Blank, Christopher, Attorney at Law,

Brown, Gregory G.

Burkhalter, Alton G. S-2, S-8

Buus, William L.

Call, Wayne W.

Chairez, Joseph L.

Chapman, William

Chung, Kenneth W.

Coleman, Jeffrey A.

Cumming, William

Daily, Justin E. D.

D’Arcy, Patrick J.

Darnell, David J. S- 4

Daucher, Brian M.

Eisenhut, Mark L.

Farano, Charles, Attorney at Law, Placentia

Ford, Brendan M.

Friedland, Todd G.

Gerber, Jonathan L., Miller Miller Gerber, Irvine, S-15

Gessin, Jesse

Grabowski, Richard J., Jones Day, Irvine

Graham, Steven T.

Grant, David C. S-17

Greene, Andra B.

Gross, Dimitri P.

Hall, Howard D.

Hart, William R.

Hodges, Ronald S.

Hueston, John C.

Jenkins, Shannon M. (TLD Law), Irvine

Johnson, Beverly A.

Kaplan, Phillip R.

Kazemi, Nahal , Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700

Keller, Jennifer L., Keller/Anderle, Irvine,

Kessler, Daniel J. S-2, S-8

Kim, John W. Klein, Gerald A.

Kraft, Karla J.

Kuo, Hubert H.

Lawrence, Robert Scott

ROBERT SCOTT LAWRENCE

www.lawrencebartels.com

LeBoff, Michael S.

Libeu, Allison L.

Libman, David E.

Livingston, Daniel M.

Loewy, Robert G.

Miliband, Joel S. Mortenson, Michael D., Mortenson Taggart

Mower, Jon R. Nelson, Andrew Ryan

Nix, Benjamin A. O’Hare, William S. O’Neill, William

Peterson, Mark D.

Pitha, Martin L. Reagan, Carole E. Robinson, Gregory Robinson, Jeffrey A.

Rudolph, George Cooper Irvine

Rus, Ronald Sachs, Michael J. S- 4

Sambhwani, Anand, Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700

Siddiqui, Omar A. S-19

Singletary, Jeffrey

Spach, Jr., Madison S.

Stephens, John B.

Sugden, David

Theodora, Todd C.

Van Oordt, Javier H. S- 4

Vincent, Thomas L.

Waldman, Joshua A. S-2

Wegner, Matthew K.

White, Darrell P.

Williams, J. Craig Irvine

Williams, Michael R.

Yocca, Mark W.

Zipser, Dean J.

BUSINESS/CORPORATE

Adams, Addison K.

Blaine, Stephen E. S- 4

Calderon, David R.

Clement, Gregory M. S-2

Kim, John Y.

Kushner, Michael

Miller, Adam

Miller, Adam I., Miller Miller Gerber, Irvine, S-15

Prietto, Jr., Miguel P., Prietto Law, Irvine

Rautiola, Beth K.

Waldron, Irvine

Zeppos, Demosthenis

CIVIL LITIGATION: DEFENSE

Ames, Dennis K.

Augustini, Jeff, Law Office of Jeff Augustini, Irvine Brown, Raymond

Cleeland, Bruce

DeGrave, Douglas M.

Holm, Margaret M.

Hoting, Shaun A., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700

Kamanski, James

McNamara, Ryan M.

Natelborg, Kenneth

Pacheco, Rod

Scolnick, Chase A., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700

Spitz, Sherman M.

CIVIL LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

Bohm, James G.

Dennis, Jonathan S.

Ortiz-Beljajev, Neyleen S.

Young, Steven R.

CLASS ACTION/MASS TORTS

Barba, Luis A. Irvine

Beal, Holly C. Irvine

Desai, Aashish Y.

Egley, John T.

Frank, Jason M.

Haque, Kashif

Karavatos, Karen L.

Robinson, Daniel S.

Robinson, Jr., Mark P.

Sims, Scott H.

CLOSELY HELD BUSINESS

Stafford, Stephen A.

Streza, Richard E.

CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

Barker, T. Darren

Ghassemian, Mahyar

Kaneda, Joseph Litt, Irvine

Kasdan, Kenneth S.

Kring, Kyle D.

McPherson, David F. Fitzgerald, Irvine

Miller, Thomas E.

THOMAS E. MILLER

www.constructiondefects.com

Salamone, Mary A.

Throckmorton, Robert

Tomassian, Serge Irvine

Zvonicek, Philip C.

CONSUMER LAW

Ibey, Jason

Kazerounian, Abbas

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Blanco, Meghan

Chambers, Dan E.

Cordova, Ron, Attorney at Law, Irvine, S-18

Darden, Christopher A., S olution Law, Ferrentino, Correen W.

Goodman, Jacqueline, Law Office of Jacqueline

Gurwitz, Brian Tustin

Harley, Jr., Robison D.

Kent, Jeffrey LaBarbera, Vincent

Stokke, Allan H.

Swanson, David E., Law Office of David Swanson, Thiagarajah, Fred

Welbourn, T. Edward

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI

Miller, Robert L., Miller and Associates, Parker Harris, Kellee

Simons, Barry T.

Taylor, Christopher

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

Bass, Diane

Bienert, Jr., Thomas H.

Corrigan, Kate de Bretteville, Jason

CONTINUED ON PAGE S-14

Krieger, Eliot F.

Littrell, John

Miller, Kenneth

Munk, Jessica

Riddet, James

Steward, H. Dean

Wiechert, David W.

ELDER LAW

Bell, Melinda

Siegel, Travis K.

Valentine, Kimberly

EMINENT DOMAIN

Banker, Anish J. Irvine

Evertz, Douglas J. S-18

DOUGLAS J. EVERTZ

www.murphyevertz.com

Hennessey, Patrick A. Leifer, Irvine

Kuhn, Bradford B.

Leifer, Michael H. Irvine

Murphy, John C. S-19

JOHN C. MURPHY

www.murphyevertz.com

Weisberg, Gary C.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Boutwell, Sherrie

EMPLOYMENT & LABOR

Barber, John L.

Brand, Ron

Brown, Jeffrey K.

Crosby, William M.

Dieguez, Marcelo A.

Donahoo, Richard E. Fakhimi, Houman

Fears, Daniel F. Garbacz, Greg A., Klinedinst, Irvine Jaramillo, Andrew J. Kading, Theresa A.

Knepper, Dawn M. Lara, Linda Luna

May, Bruce D. McCortney, Ryan D.

Miller, Jon G., Littler Mendelson, Irvine Naddour, Joseph G.

Paris, Andrea W. S., Andrea Paris Law, Payne, James L. Sessions, Don Shanberg, Ross E.

Sugg, Wendy A. Walraven, Larry A.

Wesierski, Christopher P.

Wirth, Gabrielle M.

Wong, Samuel A.

Woo, Peter J., Jackson Lewis, Irvine Young-Agriesti, Summer

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE

Attal, Avi M. Ayers, Lindsay A. Barritt, Douglas A. Beaumont, Jacqueline

Cohen, Ellen

DiSante, Marie D.

Freudenberger, Timothy M. Irvine

Jayakumar, Jehan N. S-8, S-19

Larsen, Shawn M.

Lubrano, Nancy N.

Michalski, James W.

Moss, Jr., James R.

Patton, Amy R.

Pearl, II, Carmine J. (CJ), Pearl Legal, Irvine Trotter, Julie R.

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

Beilke, Jared W.

Campbell, Darren J. Weaver, Irvine

D’Abusco, Matthew

Forootan, Shirin

Glyer, Leslie J.

Hardin, James

Kimball, Stephen C.

Kwik, Angeline (Angie)

Locklear, Tina, Law Offices of Tina Locklear, Irvine

Nguyen, Nicole

Norman, Ronald

Odell, Robert, Odell Law, Irvine

Pedersen, Neil

Rashtian, Daniel

Shah, Sandeep J.

Stevens, Daniel P.

ENVIRONMENTAL

Bois, Thomas J.

ENVIRONMENTAL LITIGATION

Dupont, Norman A.

ESTATE & TRUST LITIGATION

Buffington, Roger

Glowacki, John P.

Gokal, Abbas K.

Gostanian, Amy L.

Higgins, Sean K.

Kiken, Dale

Kim, Ernest J.

Lemmons, Phillip C.

Mermelstein, F. Edie

Miliband, Nikki Presley S-19

Muntz, Sean D.

Sherak, David

Stein, Matthew G.

ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE

Acosta, Megan S. Planning, Irvine

Brown, Matt

Chou, Brian Y.

Daff, Leslie R.

Doyle, Mark C. Law), Irvine

Kundani, Lalit S-11

Leese, James K. S-19

Offenheiser, Michael J.

Rehmani, Suzanne

Roehl, Cynthia

Schaller, Gordon A.

Varela, Michael P.

Vollmer, Michael V.

Weiner, Christine C.

Wells III, H. Neal

FAMILY LAW

Bayati, Brian A.

Benavente, Robert A.

Block, Carrie

Brandon, Lisa E. Briggs, Steven E.

Burch, Robert

Buttacavoli, Matthew S., Minyard Morris,

Cowhig, John S. Irvine

Curtin, Judi A.

Dockstader, Janet, Dockstader Orliczky,

Dolnick, Keith E. Irvine

Eisenberg, Donald S.

Fisher, Michael A.

Garelick, Marc H. S-3

Gelbart, Saul M.

Gibbs, Kevin

Gold, Daniel R. Law), Irvine

Haapala, Michael J. Orange

Hatherley, Douglas A.

Hittelman, Steven G.

Kaufman, Stephen

Klausner, Andrew

Kutinsky, Laurence A., Law Offices of Laurence

Loos, Joan E. McCall, Lisa R.

McNamara, Teresa, Law Office of Teresa

Minyard, Mark E.

Monarch, David R. Morris, Michael A., Minyard Morris,

Murphy, Ryan Patrick Irvine

Nelson, Paul Parke, James R.

Rios, Christi D. Rogers, Dorie A. Orange

Sarieh, Wail

Schwartz, Jason M.

Seastrom, Brian

Seastrom, Philip G.

Seide, Lonnie K.

Shepard, Courtney L.

Stegmeier, Eleanor A.

Strunk, Kerri L.

Tovstein, Marc S.

Tuttle, Thomas W.

Whisnant, Jacqueline A.

Whyte, Nicole

Wilkins, Michael

FRANCHISE/DEALERSHIP

Adams, Kevin A. Irvine

Weldon, Elizabeth M.

GENERAL LITIGATION

Cahn, Reuben C., Keller/Anderle, Irvine, 949-476-8700

CONTINUED ON PAGE S-16

18301 Von Karman Ave., Suite 950 Irvine, CA 92612

PH: 714-450-3800

FX: 714-450-3801

MMG-LLP.COM

Adam I. Miller*

Corey A. Miller Jonathan L. Gerber*

TRUSTED. STRATEGIC. CREATIVE. *Selected to Super Lawyers

Parvaneh, Ali, Madison Law, Irvine

Thakur, Pamela Tahim Fullerton

HEALTH CARE

Barta, Theresa McMahon, Raymond J. Irvine

IMMIGRATION

Nelson, John C. Padilla, Annaluisa

Piscopo, Louis

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Aguilera, A. Eric

Arnold, Larry

Bark, Brian Z. Brower, Steven

Cohen, Adrienne D.

Cohn, Stephan S.

Danskin, Samuel M. Ellison, Michael W.

Ezra, David B.

Ezra, Erin Mindoro

Ford, Caroline Hurtado

Gauntlett, David A.

Kent, Ronald D. McInnis, Terrence R. Sanders, Irvine

McKennon, Robert J.

Simon, Craig S. Smith, Phillip E.

Smith, Stephen E.

Susolik, Edward S- 4, S-8

Thomas, Scott S.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Goodman, Eric

Hansen, Scott R.

Heller, Susan L., Greenberg Traurig, Irvine Murphey, Matthew D.

Renfro, Aaron L. Thompson, Ph.D., Sandra P., Finlayson Toffer S-19

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

Armond, Michelle

Berstein, David A. Brennan, Sterling A. Brown, Jr., William J. Cordrey, Gregory S.

Finkelstein, Mark A. Glasser, Lisa Sharrock

Lapple, Matthew Lord, John McPhie, David

Re, Joseph R., Knobbe Martens, Irvine

Sganga, Jr., John B., Knobbe Martens, Irvine Thomas, Jeffrey T. Tran, John D.

Tripodi, II, Paul D. Feld, Irvine

Van den Bosch, Carlo F.

Viscounty, Perry J.

INTERNATIONAL

Fasel, Thomas A.

LAND USE/ZONING

Rosenthal, Deborah M., FitzGerald Kreditor

MEDIA AND ADVERTISING

Schumann, Kim

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Le Pore, III, Vincent J. Loss, James W.

Skaist, Mark L.

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: DEFENSE

Braun, Jeff I.

Everett, III, Seymour B.

Gramling, Kevin J., Klinedinst, Irvine

Kaiser, Raymond

Popovich, Jerry C.

Sutton, Michael S.

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

Adams, III, John C.

Aitken, Ashleigh E.

Aitken, Christopher R.

Aitken, Wylie A.

Bahan, Cornelius “Neil”

Baruch, Joel

Bentley, Gregory L. S-1, S-8

Brockmeier, John A.

Bruno, Angela E.

Bruno, Keith J.

Chambers, Gary

Chase, Brian

Cifarelli, Thomas

Cohn, Jason D.

Davis, Allan F.

Dubin, Eric J. 949-477-8040 S-18

Easton, Brian W. S-7

Easton, Matthew D. S-7

Easton, W. Douglas S-7

Fielding, Clark H., Fielding Law, Irvine

Finaldi, Vince W.

Gibson, Robert B.

Greenman, Jeffrey

Habbas, Samer

Associates, Irvine

Hicks, Aaron

Howard, Vincent

Jackson, Mitch

Johnson, Casey R.

Kazerouni, Mohammad R. (Mike), Kazerouni Law

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Peiffer, II, John C.

Kimura, Joshua M.

Kohan, Nicholas P.

Kubota, Yoshiaki

Ledger, Emery B.

Lucich, Clare H. S-1

Manly, John C.

McCormack, Brian J. S- 4

Moore, Thomas M. Irvine

Morrell, III, Rivers J.

Paoli, William

Peck, Christopher Peck, Orange

Penn, Michael A.

Pirozzi, Darren

Reza, Pierce I.

Ritsema, Scott

Roberts, Jeffrey S-8, S-9

Robinson, Jeoffrey L.

Rosen, Stephen

Sheth, Samir

Simon, Brad M.

Sitzer, Andrew D.

Steele, Eugenia L.

Strongin, Eric

Swartzon, Saar

Tannenbaum, Oz

Torkzadeh, Reza

Traut, Eric V.

Traut, James R.

Vahdat, Sasan (Sean) Associates, Orange

Wacker, Ted B.

Wegman, Atticus N.

West, Michelle Marie

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: DEFENSE

McKenna, III, Robert L.

Poliquin, Mark

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

Brown, Alan C.

Burke, Sean M.

Cohn, Richard A.

Hodes, Daniel Martin

Ikuta, Benjamin Milman, Jeffrey A.

Silberberg, Marshall

MARSHALL SILBERBERG

www.silberberglaw.com

Walkon, Craig

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: DEFENSE

Calareso, Christine D. McNulty, Elizabeth V.

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF

Calcagnie, Kevin F.

DAVID C. GRANT

GRANT, GENOVESE & BARATTA, LLP

2030 Main St., Suite 1600 Irvine, CA 92614 (949) 660-1600 ggb-law.com

Gonter, Jr., K. Robert, Gates Gonter Guy

Liebeck, Kevin G.

Lukei, Shannon M.

Michaels, Jonathan

Montevideo, John A.

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: DEFENSE

Garner, Scott B.

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY:

PLAINTIFF

Wilson, Mark B.

REAL ESTATE

Baker, Jr., William E.

Bowerbank, John E.

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:

“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. ...”

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2023

Brackmann, Eve

Burris, Jason R. Corfield, Michael

Grushkin, Josh C.

Gutierrez, Javier F.

Hardwick, Craig D.

Hensley, W. Michael

Jackson, F. Scott, Jackson Tidus, Irvine

McFarlin, Timothy, McFarlin, Irvine

Stroffe, Jennifer V., FSG, Irvine

Stuart, Bruce C. Taylor, Corey

Ulwelling, James K.

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

Smith, Ruben A.

SECURITIES LITIGATION

Bartels, David T.

DAVID T. BARTELS

www.lawrencebartels.com

Johnson, Michele D.

Privette, Howard M.

Schneider, Marc J.

Taggart, Craig A.

Young, Meryl L.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

Aghai, Sima Stanton

STATE, LOCAL & MUNICIPAL

Aleshire, David J. Carvalho, Sonia Rubio

SURETY

Niesley, Robert C. Fitzgerald, Irvine

TAX

Cicione, Douglas D.

Dyess, Jr., Robert W. S-18

Keligian, David L. Nelson, Lisa O.

Taylor, A. Lavar

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

Gonzalez, Jose S-1

Ly, Geraldine, L aw Office of Geraldine Ly,

More, Keith P. S-1, S-8

Richards, Joseph Orange

Stoody, Amy Menkes S-19

Vargas, Sean C.

Selected to Super Lawyers

RON CORDOVA

RON CORDOVA, ATTORNEY AT LAW

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

Selected to Super Lawyers

ERIC J. DUBIN

DUBIN LAW FIRM

Tel: 949-477-8040

Selected to Super Lawyers

ROBERT W. DYESS, JR. GOOD WILDMAN

Recognized by OC Metro Magazine

Selected to Super Lawyers

DOUGLAS J. EVERTZ

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

BUSINESS LITIGATION

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF

TAX

REAL ESTATE BUSINESS/CORPORATE

EMINENT DOMAIN

LAND USE/ZONING

The Best Lawyers in America.

Selected to Super Lawyers

JEHAN N. JAYAKUMAR

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE

Selected to Super Lawyers

JAMES K. LEESE

Suite 400

Tel: 949-608-6900

Fax: 949-608-6994

Selected to Super Lawyers

NIKKI PRESLEY

MILIBAND GOOD WILDMAN

BUSINESS/CORPORATE

ELDER LAW

Selected to Super Lawyers

JOHN C. MURPHY

EMINENT DOMAIN

LAND USE/ZONING REAL ESTATE

The Best Lawyers of America

Selected to Super Lawyers

JOHN S. PETERSON PETERSON LAW GROUP PC

Selected to Super Lawyers

JOE ROSE ROSE LAW APC

EMINENT DOMAIN

LAND USE/ZONING REAL ESTATE

ADMINISTRATIVE LAW

Selected to Super Lawyers

OMAR A. SIDDIQUI

SIDDIQUI LAW APC

Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America Best Lawyers

Selected to Super Lawyers

AMY MENKES STOODY THE LAW OFFICES OF STOODY AND MILLS

Selected to Super Lawyers

SANDRA P. THOMPSON, PH.D.

FINLAYSON TOFFER

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

BUSINESS LITIGATION

GENERAL LITIGATION

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

EMPLOYMENT & LABOR

Law Review

ROCKK ’N’ ROLL

Santa Ana-based DJ and online content creator Allie Rockk, aka Allie Ramirez, plays a wide variety of music across Southern California. by Raya Torres

What does your schedule look like?

I perform three to four times a week, sometimes until 2 a.m. It’s funny because everyone thinks I’m a night owl, but I’m actually an early bird. I like waking up between 7 and 8:30 a.m. And when I’m not performing, I create content to upload to TikTok and other social media.

What are the challenges you face as a female DJ?

It’s sometimes intimidating to go into a new setting and play in places I haven’t been to before. The bigger I became, the more self-conscious I got about whether

I was doing a good job. Sometimes, I’ve been put in lineups where I’m the only girl. I often remind myself that people can see my potential, and I am here for a reason.

How would you describe your style?

I like to think of my style as a piñata because you never know what you’re going to get. Some people think that I’ll play EDM, but then I’ll play hip-hop, 2000s R&B, and Spanish pop. I grew up with a lot of the music that I play, and I think it’s timeless! I want people to feel nostalgic when they listen to my set.

Any funny performance stories?

During one of my gigs, my cousin Christian got on stage and tried to film content for my social media. As he tried to move back to get a better angle, he ended up tripping on the speakers and fell off the stage in front of everyone. The best part was that he kept recording! I ended up posting the video on social media for my followers.

FOLLOW HER!

@AllieRockk on Instagram and @DJAllieRockk on TikTok

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