12 minute read
Chef’s Table
and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 3131 W. Coast Highway, 949-999-6622. See Tustin location. $$$
NEWPORT COAST
MARCHÉ MODERNE
BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2018
The finest French bistro south of Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs that express a fresh chapter for the redoubtable Florent and Amelia Marneau. Added space and oversize windows let the outdoors into a room that oozes grace and sophistication. Beloved dishes such as Spanish octopus with chorizo return to the dinner menu alongside new creations from the open kitchen—think crispy suckling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only. 7862 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 714-434-7900. $$$
WASA SUSHI
James Hamamori cemented his stardom at this striking shopping-center spot brimming with devotees of modern spins on sushi. Renowned for such fare as salmon with ginger sauce and fresh orange. Exceptional selection of salads, appetizers, and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511.
Beer and wine. $$
ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST
This shopping center offshoot of the popular original
Zov’s in Tustin is a go-to patio cafe that lures locals with creative Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin location. $$$
ORANGE
BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS
Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a southern accent.
Look for 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. $$
HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR
A serious contender in the gastropub category, this popular storefront in Old Towne lures a mixed crowd of brew fanatics and foodies, thanks to a rich roster of esoteric suds and polished pub grub from chef Craig Brady. Dishes such as a braised lamb pappardelle and coriander roasted baby carrots.
Lunch is an option for bypassing the din that rises with the crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680. $$
SAN CLEMENTE
BRICK
The menu of authentic, seasonal cuisine says Italy, but the unfussy setting and beach-casual regulars make for a solid California vibe at this trattoria by chef-owner David Pratt. Thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired Valoriani oven are composed with care, but don’t miss the house-made pastas and seasonal salads. Amazing meatballs, too. 216 N. El Camino
Real, 949-429-1199. $$
NICK’S
On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with a modern twist. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened fish sandwich. Sociable service is notably polished. 213 Avenida del Mar, 949-481-2200. See
Laguna Beach location. $$
SOUTH OF NICK’S
From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110
N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location in
Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$
VINE
A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new heights, because owner Russ Bendel Jr. wisely gives sauce monster and executive chef Jared Cook full reign over the kitchen. Look for killer duck wings and nightly specials that tend to sell out. A garden out back only sweetens this beach burg gem. 211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079. Dinner only. $$$
PROMOTION
O.C. Scene PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS
Illumination Foundation raised $1.3 million to support their mission to disrupt the cycle of homelessness at their 9th annual Chef’s Table Culinary Gala at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Celebrity Chef Jet Tila; Andrew Sutton, Executive Chef Disneyland Resort; 35 acclaimed chefs from local restaurants; and more than 360 individuals, business, and community leaders attended Chef’s Table.
Photo Credit: werkitphoto.com
Guero chile taco at Chato’s Bar and Grill
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. $$$
RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ
A sweet adobe hiding in the historic Los Rios district,
Ramos House Café turns out some of South County’s most delectable daytime fare. Contemporary and clever American breakfasts and lunches (brunch on weekends) have a distinct Southern accent that fits the rustic, alfresco setting with passing trains as soundtrack. Look for ethereal biscuits and crab hash. And don’t miss the killer bloody mary. 31752
Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$
SANTA ANA [ SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO ] BENCHMARK
Quirky and capable, this Santa Ana spot 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. Dinner surprises with upmarket dishes, say a lovely bavette steak atop celery root puree. 601 E. Santa Ana Blvd., 714-480-0225. $$
CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL
This intrepid Mexican canteen offers less-familiar dishes—corundas, roast quail—alongside comfort favorites such as ceviche and chilaquiles. Michoacán native Sergio Ortega previously of Descanso, is executive chef. Inaugural meals include dinner nightly and Sunday brunch. Commendable drinks. 400 N. Broadway, 714-852-3256. $$
EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE
Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe from
Mexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde. We loved the guajillo salsa-soaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch.
Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$
SOUTH COAST METRO
ANQI
Tight focus on the fare makes dining at this South Coast Plaza hot spot better than ever. Executive chef Ron Lee makes delicious harmony with matriarch master chef Helene An’s spicy beef tacos and roasted New Zealand lamb rack, as well as her fabled roast crab (Tuesday only). Zen chic decor turns heads. Drinks at the dramatic bar dazzle the cocktail crowd, but try Sunday brunch for a more kickback experience, or snag a padded stool at the adjacent noodle bar. 3333 Bristol St., 714-557-5679. $$$
43
YEARS
Distinctive Shopping & Dining
Orange county’s most unique shopping experience
SUMMER CONCERTS ARE BACK Select Friday Nights from 5-8pm
June 3, The Fun Ghouls - Classic Rock July 25, U.S. 99, Oldies August 26, Sligo Rags, Celtic Music
CHARLESTON PROVENCE BOUTIQUE Saturday, June 25, 1-5pm Happy Hour
Wine, Charcuterie & Shopping Free gift with $50 purchase
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
17th Street Optometry
OPTOMETRY 714.838.9664 Fancy Nails 714.730.4722 Fitness Fixe 714.838.5751 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 Refi nery 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 Porterfi eld, Ltd. 714.544.5223
enderlecenter.com | 714.731.2911
SEVENTEENTH STREET & YORBA ST., TUSTIN — 55 FRWY. NORTH OR SOUTH, EXIT SEVENTEENTH ST. EAST
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. $$$
DARYA
Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebabs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South
Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$
DIN TAI FUNG
Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, hand-pleated 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 ever brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony
Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelinacclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to see stars again with this radiant backdrop for
Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hospitality. 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. $$$
PARADISE DYNASTY
Singapore’s largest restaurant group opts for the
Bloomingdale’s end of South Coast Plaza for its first U.S. operation with this wildly popular soup dumpling specialist that pioneered xiao long bao, oozing with luxury ingredients that include black truffles, foie gras, and crab roe. Ultramodern digs seat diners in view of an exhibition kitchen where 20 artisans handcraft a steady flow of dumplings to support a 75-dish menu starring dim sum and
Sichuan classics. Walk-up wait list. 3333 Bristol St., 714-617-4630 $$
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 lamb Louis XV dessert at Knife Pleat
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. $$
VACA
Top chef Amar Santana and partner Ahmed Labbate run an exuberant, singular ode to Spain. Santana sidesteps the “eat local” crusade, offering peerless jamon Iberico, lush bomba rice for paellas, and verdant Mahon gin for cocktails. Dozens of authentic tapas beg to be tried, but do consider excellent wood-grilled steaks, dry-aged in-house. Dinner tables at prime times are scarce, so plan, wait, or aim for lunch. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$
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 por-
terhouse for two. 405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$
THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR
The O.C. power crowd doesn’t care that this isn’t a winery, but a huge, handsome restaurant that attracts disciples of steak, wine, and cigars. They’re exactly the folks you’d expect would follow partners
JC Clow and William Lewis from their previous gig at Morton’s, with executive chef Yvon Goetz in tow. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian
“pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. If the 7,500-bottle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$
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 creations: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714389-5280. $$
ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO
Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, creative way with Mediterranean flavors. Zov keeps her flagship venue fresh and stylish. Expect Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. The patio cafe out back stays busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855.
See Newport Coast location. $$$
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