Orange Coast Magazine - June 2023

25

ICONIC PLACES

REVIEW: BLIND PIG IN YORBA LINDA SHINES in

GIFT IDEA FROM HERMÈS FOR FATHER’S DAY

Models used for illustrative purposes.

Photo: Laurie Frankel

When you walk through our doors, bring an idea. A dream. A vision. Our showroom is designed to inspire you with on-site chefs, product experts, and exclusive events - all so you can fully experience everything your kitchen can be.

We’ll bring you the showroom experience you’ve been waiting for.

The brand that defines luxury.

As an exclusive Orange County affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate and Luxury Portfolio International, First Team is distinguished as best in class. Together with our third luxury partnership, Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate, we bring the most desired luxury homes to the world’s most discerning buyers. Our finely-tuned suite of programs provides a world-class showcase for distinguished homes, and our clients benefit from the power of all three, worldwide networks.

Discover the advantages of partnering with our worldwide network at FirstTeam.com/Luxury or by scanning.

CITY OF HOPE ORANGE COUNTY OFFERS THE MOST ADVANCED TREATMENTS FOR PROSTATE AND OTHER CANCERS AFFECTING MEN

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States and the most common cancer in men over 50. In fact, one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

“Prostate cancer is highly treatable when caught early and when care is provided by highly trained, specialized experts using the most advanced treatments and technologies available,” said renowned surgeon Jeffrey S. Yoshida, M.D., Medical Director of Urologic Surgery at City of Hope Orange County. “At City of Hope, we treat nearly 6,000 patients annually, with five-year survival rates close to 100 percent.”

This level of expertise results from years of developing one of California’s largest prostate cancer programs, one of the largest databases for prostate cancer research — and the most robotic surgery experience in the Western United States.

Dr. Yoshida is a pioneer in robotic surgery, having performed more than 3,000 surgeries for prostate cancer. He uses the latest advances in robotic surgery and molecular imaging to ensure his patients have the best

care possible at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — Orange County’s most advanced comprehensive cancer center.

“For many patients, minimally invasive surgery is a common treatment option,” Dr. Yoshida said. “Robotic surgery typically offers patients fewer side effects and faster recovery. City of Hope pioneered these procedures and has performed thousands of robotic surgeries for prostate and other urologic cancers, more than any other hospital in the western United States.”

With June being Men’s Health Month, Dr. Yoshida urges all men to take control of their health by getting screened for prostate cancer. If you or someone you love is diagnosed with prostate cancer, seek care from an expert at City of Hope Orange County.

“Cancer doesn’t stand a chance against our level of expertise,” Dr. Yoshida said.

For more information, visit CityofHope.org/OC. To make an appointment at any of our five Orange County locations, call 888-333-HOPE (4673).

“Cancer doesn’t stand a chance against our level of expertise.”

Jeffrey

S. Yoshida,

M.D.

CalOptima Health Insures

975,000 OC Residents

CalOptima Health Insures 940,000 OC Residents

CalOptima Health provides health insurance to Orange County’s most vulnerable, low-income residents. CalOptima Health serves more than one in four residents — a major portion of the community.

CalOptima Health Insures 940,000 OC Residents

In operation for more than 27 years, CalOptima Health is now focused on growth and innovation, launching specialized efforts to deepen our commitment to caring. Here are just a few recent examples of impactful activities.

Preventing Cancer

In operation for the past 28 years, CalOptima Health is now focused on growth and innovation, launching specialized efforts to deepen our commitment to caring. Here are just a few recent examples of impactful activities.

By its very nature, CalOptima Health cares. We provide health insurance to Orange County’s most vulnerable, low-income residents. CalOptima Health serves more than one in four residents — a major portion of the community.

Preventing Cancer

In operation for more than 27 years, CalOptima Health is now focused on growth and innovation, launching specialized efforts to deepen our commitment to caring. Here are just a few recent examples of impactful activities.

Preventing Cancer

Cancer can be devastating, and CalOptima Health cares about preventing members from facing the worst of the disease. This month, we announced a $50.1 million effort aimed at reducing the incidence of late-stage breast, cervical, colon and certain lung cancers. The goal is to have Orange County lead the nation with the lowest rates of these cancers, which are relatively easy to detect and are treatable when found in the early stages.

Cancer can be devastating, and CalOptima Health cares about preventing members from facing the worst of the disease. In December, we announced a $50.1 million effort aimed at reducing the incidence of late-stage breast, cervical, colon and certain lung cancers. The goal is to have Orange County lead the nation with the lowest rates of these cancers, which are relatively easy to detect and are treatable when found in the early stages.

Building Food Security

Food is health, and we care that our members have access to healthy choices. Since April, CalOptima Health has been working with the County of Orange Social Services

Building Food Security

Cancer can be devastating, and CalOptima Health cares about preventing members from facing the worst of the disease. This month, we announced a $50.1 million effort aimed at reducing the incidence of late-stage breast, cervical, colon and certain lung cancers. The goal is to have Orange County lead the nation with the lowest rates of these cancers, which are relatively easy to detect and are treatable when found in the early stages.

Boosting Community Health Centers

Expanding Homeless Health Services

Boosting Community Health Centers

In 2022, CalOptima Health awarded $50 million in a five-year grant to the Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers to enhance access to care, improve quality outcomes and strengthen the infrastructure of the health care safety net system across the county.

Building Food Security

Food is health, and we care that our members have access to healthy choices. Since April, CalOptima Health has been working with the County of Orange Social Services

Food is health, and we care that our members have access to healthy choices. For the past year, CalOptima Health has been working with the County of Orange Social Services Agency to encourage

help

Expanding Homeless Health Services

Caring and compassion blend with innovation and determination when it comes to CalOptima Health’s efforts in serving our members experiencing homelessness. This year, we launched services designed to support Medi-Cal members in becoming housed. In 2023, we will roll out Orange County’s first street medicine program to meet members where they are, building relationships and trust while delivering urgent care in the community.

In March, CalOptima Health awarded $50 million in a fiveyear grant to the Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers to enhance access to care, improve quality outcomes and strengthen the infrastructure of the health care safety net system across the county.

Expanding Homeless Health Services

Strengthening Children’s Mental Health

Caring and compassion blend with innovation and determination when it comes to CalOptima Health’s efforts in serving our members experiencing homelessness. This past year, we launched a variety of services designed to support Medi-Cal members in becoming housed. In April 2023, we rolled out Orange County’s first street medicine program to meet members where they are, building relationships and trust while delivering comprehensive care in the community.

Caring and compassion blend with innovation and determination when it comes to CalOptima Health’s efforts in serving our members experiencing homelessness. This year, we launched services designed to support Medi-Cal members in becoming housed. In 2023, we will roll out Orange County’s first street medicine program to meet members where they are, building relationships and trust while delivering urgent care in the community.

Strengthening Children’s Mental Health

Strengthening Children’s Mental Health

The pandemic took a heavy toll on children’s mental health, and CalOptima Health is partnering with all 29 Orange County school districts to boost access to mental health care. Through a state incentive program, up to $25 million will fund behavioral health system improvements and open the door for Medi-Cal reimbursement of services delivered at school. In 2023–24, look for significant new resources at schools, putting more counselors, wellness programs, telehealth services, crisis screenings and other programs within reach.

Employees With Heart Make a Difference in OC

Agency to encourage enrollment in CalFresh, California’s program offering food assistance to low-income people. A multifaceted outreach effort is building awareness about the importance of food security, and nearly 30,000 CalOptima Health members have gained resources to help prevent hunger and maintain reliable access to food.

enrollment in CalFresh, California’s program offering food assistance to low-income people. A multifaceted outreach effort is building awareness about the importance of food security, and nearly 48,000 CalOptima Health members have gained resources to help prevent hunger and maintain reliable access to food.

CalOptima Health is fortunate to have remarkable employees who believe in our mission of service to the vulnerable. Not only do they demonstrate this through their work but also in their personal donations of time and money in support of populations in need.

Member Scholarships: CalOptima Health offers an annual member scholarship contest. Employees make personal donations to award scholarships to members pursuing college degrees in a health or social services field. The 2022 contest was our biggest ever, with a total of $9,000 awarded to six students.

Community Donations: CalOptima Health employees run frequent donation drives, such as for holiday gifts for children and seniors or diapers for young families. This holiday season, elementary school children at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Garden Grove will receive barrels full of new toys, provided with kindness by CalOptima Health staff.

The pandemic took a heavy toll on children’s mental health, and CalOptima Health is partnering with all 29 Orange County school districts to boost access to mental health care. Through a state incentive program, up to $25 million will fund behavioral health system improvements and open the door for Medi-Cal reimbursement of services delivered at school. In 2023–24, look for significant new resources at schools, putting more counselors, wellness programs, telehealth services, crisis screenings and other programs within reach.

Volunteerism: When a community organization needs helping hands, CalOptima Health employees are ready to lend lots of them. We have cooked dinners at Ronald McDonald House, worked to help organize fundraising walks and volunteered to staff charity events. Somehow, our staff finds ways to give just a little more of their day to serve people in need.

The pandemic took a heavy toll on children’s mental health, and CalOptima Health is partnering with all 29 Orange County school districts to boost access to mental health care. Through a state incentive program, up to $25 million will fund behavioral health system improvements and open the door for Medi-Cal reimbursement of services delivered at school. In 2023–24, look for significant new resources at schools, putting more counselors, wellness programs, telehealth services, crisis screenings and other programs within reach.

By its very nature, CalOptima Health cares. We provide health insurance to Orange County’s most vulnerable, low-income residents. CalOptima Health serves more than one in four residents — a major portion of the community.

CalOptima Health members have gained resources to

CalOptima Health members attend a community event about CalFresh.

CalOptima Health members attend a community event about CalFresh.

Mission Viejo-based Celebrating Life Community Health Center cares for the underserved.

CalOptima Health members attend a community event about CalFresh.

Mission Viejo-based Celebrating Life Community Health Center cares for the underserved.

Focused on healthy futures

Whole Person Health Access to Care

As the largest health plan in Orange County, we know healthy futures depend on more than medical care. No matter your age, life circumstances a ect health. We remove barriers that hold health back, supporting members in need with access to preventive care, housing services, food security and much more. Because your health is everything to us.

BY

ROBIN JONES

“I always loved to sleep outside on the porch, and I started doing that early on at Crystal Cove and just waking up out there and listening to the waves and being part of nature.”

LAURA DAVICK, FOUNDER OF CRYSTAL COVE CONSERVANCY

The Ferris wheel at Balboa Fun Zone

Photograph by Emily J. Davis

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

Find your Funner this Summer!

If you’re looking to escape the mundane, plan your getaway to Harrah’s Resort SoCal where you’ll find fun around every corner! Get freshened up with a treatment tailored to you at The Spa at Harrah’s or take a refreshing dip in one of three pools at Dive. Refuel your fun at the country’s largest Hell’s Kitchen restaurant or dance with lady luck on the gaming floor where fun is dealt 24-hours a day!

Take your fun even further as a Caesars Rewards® member. You’ll enjoy exclusive perks at over 50 Caesars Entertainment destinations nationwide. Follow your funner and book a trip at HarrahsSoCal.com.

Viet Nguyen, executive chef and cofounder of Kei Concepts’ restaurants, joins Cathy Thomas to prepare seared scallops. orangecoast.com

This month, we highlight some famous landmarks in Iconic Places of Orange County (Page 88). Many of these spots will be well known to those of us who have lived here for a while, but we wanted to take a peek through the eyes of people who are intimately connected to them. How did it feel to be on the ice at Honda Center when the Anaheim Ducks won the Stanley Cup? What secrets does a family connected to the Balboa ferry for five decades have to share? When was the heyday of Crystal Cove Cottages? Why did the Nordstrom family decide to build its first store outside the Pacific Northwest at South Coast Plaza? Where is the most unusual spot for a wedding? Which legendary stars have performed at the OC Fair & Event Center?

For readers who are relatively new to our county, consider this your starting point for spots to visit or learn more about. It’s a fantastic overview of the places that stand out and important events that have happened there. I suspect even O.C. natives will be surprised by a few tidbits—Marvin Gaye’s fi nal performance was here!

The Crystal Cove Shake Shack is where I have plenty of fond memories, looking out at the ocean or watching the sunset with a straw stuck in my cherry vanilla treat. We didn’t highlight it here, but only because we had to put some kind of limit on this list! We decided to keep it to 25 places, but there are plenty more we could have included. We’d love to hear about the locales in Orange County that make your list of iconic places. Head to our social media and share.

EDITOR

MY FAVORITE THINGS IN THIS ISSUE

Queenstown, New Zealand looks like a gorgeous place for a future vacation.

PAGE 30

Stand out in any room with a lime-green addition to your wardrobe.

PAGE 42

Families come in all varieties, not just the ones you’re born into—a nice reminder for Father’s Day.

PAGE 75

Casa Youth Shelter’s new CEO shares life experiences with the teens she serves.

PAGE 104

MS. ALAN GIBBONS

- IN - CHIEF AGIBBONS @ ORANGECOAST.COM

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF

Alan Gibbons

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Andrew Hart

SENIOR EDITOR

Astgik Khatchatryan

STYLE & HOME EDITOR

Chelsea Raineri

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily J. Davis

DINING CRITIC

Gretchen Kurz

EVENTS EDITOR

Robin Jones

COPY EDITOR

Shayna Sobol

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Jason Garcia Escobar, Vanessa Page, Dhanika Pineda

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Black, Lynette Brasfield, Benjamin Epstein, Greg Nagel, Colette Nguyen, Valerie Takahama, Cathy Thomas, Barbara Neal Varma

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Martha Nippert, Jaimie Shelton

ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE LLC

2102 Business Center Drive, Suite 125 Irvine, CA 92614 949-862-1133, orangecoast.com

ENGINE VISION MEDIA

COFOUNDER

Mark Geragos

COFOUNDER

Ben Meiselas

COO AND HEAD OF EVENTS

Shelby J. Russell srussell@orangecoast.com

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

866-660-6247

12 print issues $19.95 orangecoast.com/subscribe

CHARITABLE EVENTS SUBMISSIONS orangecoast.com /submit-a-charitable-event

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER

Christopher Gialanella cgialanella@orangecoast.com

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Carly Allen callen@orangecoast.com

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Linda Wallis Goldstein lgoldstein@orangecoast.com

ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

Randy Bilsley, rbilsley@orangecoast.com

Edward Estrada, eestrada@orangecoast.com

Richard Lockhart, rlockhart@orangecoast.com

HEAD OF EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING

Traci Takeda, ttakeda@orangecoast.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Denise Philbert, dphilbert@lamag.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Natalie Malins, nmalins@lamag.com

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR

Sheila Ramezani, sramezani@lamag.com

STRATEGY AND PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR Suzy Starling, sstarling@lamag.com

DIGITAL COORDINATOR

MJ Carpentier, mcarpentier@orangecoast.com

SALES COORDINATOR

Jared Polter, jpolter@lamag.com

COMMUNITY LIAISON EMERITUS

Gloria Zigner

NATIONAL SALES OFFICES NEW YORK

Cynthia Donaher, cynthia@donahermedia.com

WEST COAST Shana Wong, 808-386-0872, shanawong@me.com

HAWAII: DESTINATION MARKETING

Justin Nakaahiki, 808-739-2200

MIDWEST & TEXAS: CS MEDIA

Cheryl Schuldt, 847-251-3483, fax: 847-589-8491

SOUTHEAST

Whitney Dick, wdick@atlantamagazine.com

DANIEL S. YANNI, MD, FAANS

Disc Comfort, Inc.

Dr. Daniel S. Yanni is a board certifi ed and spine fellowship trained neurosurgeon and is also one of the few surgeons in the country who specializes in Minimally Invasive and Complex Spine Surgery. Rated number one by his peers and patients alike, Dr. Yanni continues to research and develop new innovative approaches to surgical problems at his Disc Comfort, Inc. practice in Newport Beach. He is also the project director for Augmented Reality in Spine Surgery (new technology in spine surgery) and serves on the Executive Board as Co-Director of Development for the Lumbar Spine Research Society.

Q. When should I see a spine neurosurgeon for my neck or back pain?

Dr. Yanni: If you are experiencing ongoing neck pain, back pain, shooting pain into an arm or leg, numbness, tingling, difficulty walking, weakness, or dropping objects, it is probably a good idea to schedule an evaluation with a board-certified / fellowship trained spine neurosurgeon. An evaluation can be valuable opportunity to be examined and educated regarding spine and nerve issues. Moreover, the educational part of the consultation may include surgical options, non-surgical options, and lifestyle modifications.

Q. What are my surgical and non-surgical options for nerve pain?

Dr. Yanni: There are a wide spectrum of options. As a core component of a comprehensive spine multidisciplinary team approach, it is important to be evaluated prior to being referred out to pain management, physical therapy, nutritionist/dietician, chiropractic care, or acupuncture, to help establish a baseline and guide that team approach to the patient. Physical examination by a neurosurgeon is an important aspect of evaluation as frequently patients may not appreciate the severity of weakness or changes in reflexes that could signify nerve or spinal cord injury. Since fixing nerves is still in evolution, surgery offers the rare opportunity to provide them with the best environment to recover. The longer a nerve is damaged, the less likely it is to recover.

Q. What is your technique for spinal surgery?

Dr. Yanni: I perform minimally invasive spine surgery through keyhole sized incisions – this allows patients to be released within hours or days and return to work within weeks. I also perform traditional open surgery for complex, deformity, and revision cases. In my practice, I look at all of the available options including minimally invasive, complex, or hybrid options based on your specific concerns and the desired outcome to make the best recommendation for your situation. My job is to tailor the treatment to each patient’s unique needs and accomplish the surgical goal with minimal tissue trauma. I take a whole-person approach to treating patients with spinal disorders and to get them back on their feet as quickly—and painlessly—as possible. Our goal is to help patients suffering from neck pain, back pain or difficulty walking to heal quickly and get back to the activities they enjoy.

ummer is officially upon us. School is out, and we’re starting our getaways. Whether you are hopping on a flight domestically or heading overseas, the world is certainly your oyster. But for some of us, Orange County will be our vacation destination all summer long. Not only is it Father’s Day this month, but it’s also my 53rd birthday; I know my wife and son have some great things planned. Luckily for us, the Iconic Places issue is here, and we can discover some of the best spots to visit right in our backyard.

Last month, we hosted our Best New Restaurants in Orange County celebration at South Coast Plaza’s Ancillary Studios with our Best New Restaurants honorees for 2023, past winners, and fan favorites (check out photos at orangecoast.com). For those of you who did not make the event, we’re launching the first o cial Orange Coast Supper Club, where you will have the opportunity to discover some of the best spots in our area. We will take guests on a culinary adventure to experience amazing restaurants. Each supper club event will be curated with a special theme and allow guests to mingle, network, and find out something new. Seating is limited so reach out to me for more information on how to be included.

Another iconic destination, Fashion Island—which opened its own doors in 1967—is proud to welcome the home furnishings brand Arhaus and its 16,000-square-foot showroom to Newport Beach. Arhaus was founded in 1986 and was one of the first furniture and decor dealers to start the concept of sustainability in sourcing. The company uses reclaimed and recycled materials as much as possible. Designers and consumers alike can enjoy this experience. Fashion Island is also going to be home to RH Design Gallery, launching in the spring of 2024.

There are so many incredible gems in Orange County, from Disneyland to the Mission San Juan Capistrano and many in between. We are fortunate to live in a place filled with beautiful beaches, scrumptious restaurants, and some of the best shopping spots around. Enjoy them this month and all summer!

CHRISTOPHER GIALANELLA President/Publisher Orange Coast Magazine

cgialanella@orangecoast.com

Instagram: @christophergia @orangecoastmag

The support you need when you need it

The Covington provides a broad spectrum of exceptional services designed to meet your needs, now and in the future — and the care comes to you. Having a range of services within our community allows you to enjoy life, without the worry of having to move again.

Your legacy is now.

EVERYBODY GOOD TIMES FOR

PEOPLE PLACES

IN PLAIN SIGHT

ÚTHE SCENE Sunrise at the Ferris wheel at the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach Ú GETTING THERE The Balboa Fun Zone is about a 10-minute drive down the Balboa Peninsula. Park and walk to the Ferris wheel.

Ú LEARN MORE The Fun Zone and the Balboa ferry are featured in our cover story, 25 Iconic Places in O.C. on Page 88.

Ú EXPLORER CREDIT Jason Corcoran @tohko_cali Ú BEHIND THE SHOT “On this particular morning, I was headed down to The Wedge, and the sky started lighting up with this gorgeous color. I pulled over to capture this sunrise. I loved the way the color of the seats on the Ferris wheel complemented the color in the sky.”

33.6032°

AIRY AROMAS

Buzzy new restaurants, a sip-and-create experience, and a perfumery lure customers to LAGUNA BEACH’s main drag. by Robin Jones

 GOOD TO KNOW

The Fragrance

Boutique also hosts events such as bachelorette parties, where guests can create their own signature scents.

LAGUNA FISH COMPANY

Situated in the historic 1931 Heisler Building, the new fast-casual fish house from the owners of Mozambique o ers a fresh catch daily in everything from a burrito ($14) and a spicy fried fish sandwich ($14) to a kale salad ($10) and house-made soup ($8 for a cup). Pair them with a classic cocktail from the full bar—maybe a bloody mary or a martini ($14 to $15)—and se le in at one of the cozy booths in the coastal farmhouse-style dining room. 400 S. COAST HIGHWAY, 949-715-1002

The menu here, painted on the corrugated-steel wall above the cash register, is simple: tacos ($3.29 to $3.89) and burritos ($8.29 to $10.29) with your choice of carne asada, pollo asado, al pastor, shrimp, grilled fish, or fried fish, made to order on handmade tortillas and served with housemade salsas. Vegetarians can feast on mushroom or nopal tacos ($3), and everyone will want to save room for the fresh churros. 699 S. COAST HIGHWAY, 949-210-9001

WINE CRAFT

The wine tasting room looks like the living room of an accomplished cra er, with comfy couches and chairs set around tables created from wooden barrels, underneath chandeliers made of wine bo les. That’s intentional: The menu includes not only tasting ights ($15 to $45) and a cheese, fruit, and nut pla er ($25) but also self-guided cra s, so you can choose an art project (a landscape painting or mosaic tile for instance) to work on while you sample and snack. 662 S. COAST HIGHWAY, 949-376-0007

THE FRAGRANCE BOUTIQUE

A local favorite for more than two decades, this shop looks like an old-time apothecary, with black-and-white-tiled oors and dark wooden cases filled with glass bo les lining the walls. Those bo les contain more than 750 fragrance oils, which the shop’s professional perfumers use to replicate designer scents or create custom fragrances, room spritzes, massage oils, or di user oils based on your preferences. 490 S. COAST HIGHWAY, 949-494-2114

THE TACO STAND

Joshua Leung prides himself on serving members through a holistic planning process, looking at the full scope of an individual’s needs before making recommendations.

Finessing Your Finances Faithfully

Financial Representative Joshua Leung was born in Cerritos, CA, and moved to China with his family after his parents began full-time ministry work. He spent the next 11 years exposed to cross-cultural non-pro t programs, creating his appreciation for service and working for the public good.

Joshua returned to the United States for his undergraduate studies. In 2018, he completed his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Chapman University. After graduation, Joshua entered the nancial services business, selecting Modern Woodmen of America based on the fraternal organization’s focus on giving back to members and their communities.

After only two years in the business, Joshua began standing out as a top representative. He credits his success to great leadership, e cient systems and a resourceful team. Joshua quali ed for Million Dollar Round Table membership for the rst time in 2020 and has continued to earn membership in the prestigious professional organization each year since.

Joshua prides himself on serving members through a holistic planning process, looking at the full scope of an individual’s needs before making recommendations. As an Investment Advisor Representative, he’s licensed to provide investment-related advice. Even though Joshua does not personally provide tax advice, he often consults with his members’ tax advisors to help limit what families and small businesses pay in taxes.

To continue to provide high-quality service, Joshua hired an o ce assistant, Kristin O’Donohue, to help him streamline processes, service current members’ plans and spearhead fraternal activities. Working together – and by meeting with members both inperson and online – they can help even more people with comprehensive nancial planning.

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND

Quintessential spot lures active travelers. by Lynette Brasfield

Breathtaking in more ways than one, Queenstown reigns as the adventure capital of New Zealand, attracting fearless skiers and snowboarders in winter and hang gliders, hikers, bicyclists, and parasailers in the summer months. Located on the South Island beneath the peaks of the aptly named Remarkables mountain range, the city is the perfect launching pad for day trips to famous Milford Sound, teal-blue Lake Wānaka, and Glenorchy, where much of “The Lord of the Rings” series was filmed.

VA - VA - VOOM VIEWS

The stunningly situated and comfortable Crowne Plaza Hotel ($147 and up) overlooks the sapphire waters of Lake Wakatipu, the country’s longest lake at 50 miles, and is steps from Steamer Wharf with its eclectic bars and restaurants. Alternatively, enjoy the luxury of Azur, with its nine private villas, including a bathtub set into a bay window with amazing views of the lake ($960 and up). Located a few miles from Queenstown’s busy center, the lodge offers a serene setting and shuttles ready to take you to your restaurant of choice. Included breakfasts and high teas tickle the taste buds.

TASTES OF HISTORY

The Indigenous people of New Zealand, the Māori, are honored with many place names rendered in the native language. Embedded in the country’s restaurants, too, are the tastes of previous generations of settlers: Pog Mahones, an Irish pub on the waterfront, offers tasty lunches, while for dinner The Taj Indian Kitchen boasts curries and tandoori dishes. Try the tandoor-grilled Akhroti lamb chops with crusted walnut ($21) or Malabari Jhinga prawns with coconut Kerala-style curry ($22).

The Remarkables mountain range rises from the base of Queenstown, New Zealand. PHOTOGRAPH BY SEBASTIEN GOLDBERG

TIP FROM A LOCAL

Aurora

HEARTY HIKES

Hike the Sunshine Bay trail, which parallels Lake Wakatipu, offering glimpses of pebbled beaches through thickets of native trees and bushes. The trail is just steps from lakefront hotels yet feels a world away. Or tackle the more strenuous Queenstown Hill. The less-fit might prefer to glide up in the gondola for an even better vantage point to appreciate the grandeur of the city’s azure lake and purple snow-topped mountains.

FULL STEAM AHEAD

Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw, the only remaining commercial passenger-carrying, coal-fired steamship in the southern hemisphere. Enjoy the ride or choose to stop over at Walter’s Peak to view farming demonstrations and savor a barbecue dinner before returning to your hotel ($102 for dinner cruise). Then sip one of the area’s famous sauvignon blancs or pinot noirs while viewing the sunset from your balcony.

FOSSILS AND FEATHERS

At the Kiwi Birdlife Park ($30), dedicated to saving endangered wildlife species, be among the few people in the world to see a living fossil, the tuatara, a reptile that predates the dinosaurs by 20 million years. Glimpse New Zealand’s iconic nocturnal bird, the kiwi, and be entertained— and educated—during a lively presentation about the country’s wildlife and conservation efforts.

AIM FOR ARROWTOWN

Known as New Zealand’s most beautiful small town, Arrowtown is 20 minutes from Queenstown, reachable by bus for $2. Visit the Chinese settlement created during the gold rush and marvel at the tiny, hobbit-size cottages where hardworking immigrants lived. Then splurge on gifts as you mosey along the main road and pop into historic buildings to purchase merino or possum wool items or iconic greenstone (jade) jewelry.

BURGER BONANZA

The lines outside famous FergBurger, known internationally, can be discouraging, but take heart: Locals say that Devil Burgers are even more delicious—and there won’t be a wait. With names like Devil’s Staircase, She-Devil, and Fallen Angel, and unusual ingredients including pineapple, beets, and apricot-tomato relish, the burgers make for a hell of a good meal. If you don’t want to forgo the Ferg, consider the more accessible FergBakery, where you can order a delicious venison pie made with red wine gravy.

THRILLS, NO SPILLS

Don’t miss a jet-boat ride along Shotover Gorge ($75). Experienced drivers steer within inches of the sheer walls of the gorge and spin the boats 360 degrees, avoiding seemingly inevitable crashes and raising riders’ adrenaline levels to exciting levels. The Māori owners of Shotover Jet pride themselves on introducing their guests to the rich cultural history and natural beauty of the river.

“The Southern Lights aren’t nearly as famous as the Northern Lights, but they’re pretty special, glowing magenta and neon green, and they’re viewable from Queenstown. Visit

Australis on Facebook to check out when they might be seen in June.”

EMMA LINDSAY, SOUTHERN ADVENTURERS CONSULTANT

LEFT: Small co ages at Arrowtown housed immigrants during the gold rush.

RIGHT: A performer celebrates Luma at Queenstown Gardens.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

June 1 through 5: Luma lights up Queenstown Gardens: It’s an arts, performance, and sensory event that celebrates the nightscape and brings together local, national, and international artists.

COTTAGE PHOTOGRAPH BY LEON LI; PERFORMANCE PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF LUMA

WHAT’S PAST IS PROLOGUE

To celebrate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s “First Folio,” UC Irvine Libraries presents an exhibit, running through December, featuring its own copy. “It is the book,” says curator Derek Quezada. “When

people think about a book that’s special or expensive, it’s either the Gutenberg Bible, Audubon’s ‘Birds of America,’ or Shakespeare’s ‘First Folio,’ which is the definitive book that captures all his plays. Without the printing of the ‘First Folio,’ we wouldn’t know his works.” by Astgik Khatchatryan

1986

Year UC Irvine alum Patrick Hanra y donated his copy to the school

Wine stain le by a previous owner, possibly in a fit

A LOT TO DIGEST

Jac Alva, Muckenthaler Cultural Center’s artist-in-residence, uses her fascination with bananas, bread, and other comestibles in art to create fine-art collages and inspire students. by Valerie Takahama

The Yorba Linda resident had a series of jobs in catering after graduating from Cal State Fullerton and while earning a master’s in art history from Azusa Pacific University. It prompted her to consider food waste, hunger, and nutrition. Now at The Muck, she’s come full circle, giving lectures that explore food in such artworks as Andy Warhol’s “Banana” and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” teaching classes to kids and teens, and opening the studio where she’s creating collages made from used sugar packets and other materials.

How did you get interested in looking at food in art?

¼ In 2017, there was an exhibit (at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center) called “Pacific Standard Time.” I was so taken by this one artwork, (“Cabbages and Kings” by Leonardo González). It was a bright yellow wall, and it had these fake bananas. As you walked into the installation, there was music playing and two TVs with footage of historical information of how bananas are planted and gathered and transported. Later, when I took a visual culture class, I decided to analyze the work because it had been on my mind since the day I saw it. I thought, “There are so many artworks out there that feature food in so many ways, and I wonder if all of them are as political as this one.” If you really look at them, they are.

Can you give an example of how you use food in your classes with young kids?

¼ The last one was on

the work of a Renaissance artist whose paintings are completely made up from food, Giuseppe Arcimboldo from the 1530s. Instead of doing paintings like Arcimboldo, we did collages. The students cut out images from old cookbooks and magazines, got wrappers from places like Chick-fil-A, and used them to make portraits. There was also a writing component to it, a questionnaire: What have you eaten in the past 24 hours? What do you love to eat that you can’t imagine living without? Those questions help generate the portraits. I think that when the students are more in touch with how they’re feeling, they’re able to express themselves more through the art.

How did the subject of food evolve into a subject of your own art?

¼ I was starting to look at the things I eat, and what I noticed more than anything was what

was le behind, whether it’s a vessel or a sticker that you peel o a piece of fruit or the cup that I was drinking co ee from. All these things get le behind. When I was making art, I would repurpose these things. I used the cups or yogurt containers to pour paint into. I’m a big sugar fan, for be er or worse. I kept collecting all the used sugar

packets and made artwork out of them. When you start looking at food within history, you start to become a li le cynical. You realize that food isn’t necessarily being sold to you because it’s good for you. They want you to get hooked so you become a lifelong consumer. My artworks have some kind of snarky, not-PG message on the work itself.

DON’T MISS IN JUNE

Jazz festivals, gospel, “Six,” and more happenings by Robin Jones

JUNE 1, 8, AND 15

18TH ANNUAL MUCK JAZZ FEST

The second half of the popular festival features three concerts. John B. Williams, the house bassist for Johnny Carson and Arsenio Hall, will pay tribute to Ray Brown on June 1. On June 8, the Ernie Watts Quartet, helmed by the two-time Grammy winner, will play original pieces and classics. On June 15, Latin jazz legend Poncho Sanchez will close out the festival with his signature sound. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

JUNE 2 THROUGH 4

NEWPORT BEACH JAZZ FESTIVAL

The 27th annual festival kicks o Friday with a concert at the 1,000-seat Back Bay Amphitheater, then moves to the Back Bay Golf Course on Saturday and Sunday, where more than a dozen acts perform on multiple stages and vendors o er food and drinks. Highlights include R&B singersongwriter KEM, saxophonist Boney James, and soul singer Leela James. Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, hyattconcerts.com

JUNE 9 AND 10

RENEE ELISE GOLDSBERRY

The Tony- and Grammy Awardwinning Broadway star, best known for originating the role of Angelica Schuyler in “Hamilton,” also starred in “Rent” and “The Color Purple.” She’ll sing Broadway hits and other classic tunes, accompanied by the Pacific Symphony. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-7555788, pacificsymphony.org

OPENS JUNE 3

“INDEFINITELY WILD”

This exhibit considers the impact early environmental conservation movements had on California Impressionist painters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As the population in the West exploded, settlers often found themselves at odds with nature, and paintings of the state’s mountains, forests, rivers, and coastlines reveal how artists wrestled with that tension. UCI Institute and Museum of California Art, 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949476-0294, imca.uci.edu

JUNE 3 AND 4

CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

The popular show continues its tradition of displaying rare and lovingly restored automobiles and motorcycles. Saturday is devoted to hot rods and custom cars and motorcycles, and Sunday o ers a salute to Chevrolet Corvettes and Jaguar Motor Cars. Huntington Central Park, 18000 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, hbconcours.org

JUNE 4

28TH ANNUAL BALBOA ISLAND PARADE

“Horsin’ Around Island Style” is the theme of this year’s parade, an annual lineup of decorated golf carts and floats, vintage cars, kids on bikes, high school marching bands and drill teams, and local dignitaries. The parade starts at 11 a.m. on Marine Avenue and ends in front of the fire station, where The Fabulous Nomads will perform. Balboa Island, Newport Beach, 312286-9265, balboaislandnb.org/parade

JUNE 5 THROUGH 28

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC”

Electric Company Theatre, the resident theater company of Muckenthaler Cultural Center, presents an unusual version of the classic. As the story of Maria and the von Trapp family unfolds, the audience will follow the performers as they move across the center grounds, performing classics like “My Favorite Things,” “Do-

Experience Matters – 28 World Class Litigation Attorneys

Business Fraud

Beckman Coulter vs. Flextronics

$934,000,000

Largest Jury Verdict in OC History

Employment Class Action vs. OC Register

$38,000,000

Largest Class Action Settlement in OC History

Personal Injury

Neria vs. Bradshaw

$50,000,000

Largest Personal Injury Settlement in the US History

Personal Injury Dean vs. Allied Trucking

$28,000,000

Truck Accident

• Celebrating 38th Anniversary – C&B Was Founded in 1984

Insurance

Medical Device Manufacturer vs. Farmers Insurance

$58,000,000

Largest Insurance Bad faith Judgment in OC History

Personal Injury

Vincent vs. Public Entity

$17,000,000

Bicycle Accident

• Highest jury verdict in Orange County history —$934 million in a complex business litigation trial

• Largest personal injury settlement in United States history — $50 million in a complex municipal liability case

• Taking “Bet the Company” cases to trial and winning—C&B recently obtained a 100% defense verdict in a securities class action trial on behalf of a major Southern California bank.

Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” and, of course, “The Sound of Music.” Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

JUNE 3

BALLET BC

Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, the contemporary ballet troupe was founded in 1986. Since then, it has earned critical success worldwide with its bold and innovative style. With Medhi Walerski at the helm, the dancers have performed 42 premieres since 2009. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

JUNE 6

EVENING WITH AN AUTHOR

Janelle Brown—The New York Times bestselling author of “Pretty Things,” “Watch Me Disappear,” “All We Ever Wanted Was Everything,” and, most recently, “I’ll Be You”—will be in conversation with Marrie Stone as part of The Susi Q’s “Evening

With an Author” series. Books are included in the price of the ticket. The Susi Q Center, 380 Third Street, Laguna Beach. 949-715-8105, thesusiq.org

JUNE 10

GOSPEL VOICES OF OC

The staged concert featuring more than 100 children and adults emphasizes the historical impact of gospel music through singing and dance. Debora Wondercheck leads the Black-directed production team, and performers come from more than 20 cities around Orange County. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

JUNE 13 THROUGH 25

“SIX”

The six wives of Henry VIII are reimagined as pop stars in the musical comedy, which won the Tony Award for Best Original Score and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. Presented

JUNE 2 THROUGH 4

HEARTBEAT OF MEXICO 2023

Returning to the Musco Center, the annual event features Friday performances from all-woman mariachi band Flor de Toloache and roots music group Las Cafeteras, a Saturday concert with two-time Latin Grammy Award winner Chiquis Rivera, and a Sunday family festival on the Aitken Arts Plaza with a performance from Mexico City-based cumbia punk band Son Rompe Pera. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

like a pop concert, the show gives each wife a turn to tell her story and attempt to upstage the others with tales of su ering at the hands of the murderous king. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

JUNE 13 THROUGH 16

PACIFIC DANCE CELEBRATION 2023

The annual recital from Pacific Dance shows o students’ abilities and gives them a chance to perform for an audience. The company has been training dancers for nearly 40 years, and many of the alumni have gone on to work in movies, TV, and music videos, as well as performing with Cirque du Soleil, Disney, NFL and NBA dance teams, and other modern dance companies. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

JUNE 15 THROUGH 17

“CATHEDRALS OF SOUND”

Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony join forces for a concert spanning five centuries. The program opens with “Miserere” by Renaissance composer Gregorio Allegri, then continues with Richard Strauss’s tone poem “Death and Transfiguration.” The evening concludes with the world premiere of “Fiat Lux” by Scotland’s Sir James MacMillan. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

JUNE 16 THROUGH 25

“THE REVOLUTIONISTS”

Set during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror, the comedy follows four women who lose their heads—literally. Playwright Olympe De Gouge, assassin Charlotte Corday, former queen Marie Antoinette, and Haitian rebel Marianne Angelle plan and carry out the murder of revolutionary Jean-Paul Marat while pondering how the revolution turned into a hyper-

violent display of extremism. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-990-7722, curtistheatre.com

JUNE 16 THROUGH 18

IRVINE GREEK FEST

Greek food, traditional dancing, and live music are the highlights of the annual festival, now in its 43rd year. A marketplace and bookstore, kids activities, and church tours round out the event. St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church, 4949 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949-733-2366, irvinegreekfest.com

THROUGH JUNE 18

“MURDER ON THE LINKS”

The adaptation of the Agatha Christie mystery novel features her famous detective Hercule Poirot. His client turns up dead on the private golf course at Merlinvillesur-Mer, and he heads to the scene to interview the suspects and flush out the killer. In this version, six actors play all the characters. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

JUNE 22

“LA TRAVIATA”

Lyric Opera OC presents the Verdi classic with a live orchestra in a performance

under the stars. The story follows courtesan Violetta Valéry and Alfredo Germont, who fall in love and move from Paris to the country. Misunderstandings force the couple to split up, until Valéryfalls seriously ill. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

OPENS JUNE 23

“ALICE NEEL: FEELS LIKE HOME”

The exhibit takes a closer look at the work of Neel, one of the most important 20th-century American figurative painters. The 40 paintings in the show, many selected from her estate’s collection, focus on Neel’s children, home, animals, and extended family and depict everyday life in New York, providing an intimate look at one artist’s defi nition of home. Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714-780-2130, ocma.art

OPENS JUNE 23

“YU JI: A GUEST, A HOST, A GHOST”

Chinese sculptor and installation artist Yu Ji examines how our bodies are a ected by changes in our environment. This exhibit, her fi rst solo museum show in the U.S., includes the fi rst 10 works in her “Flesh in Stone” series, which takes fragments of cement casts of the human body and

presents them as parts of a larger whole. It also includes three “Refi ned Still Life” lithographs, images of landscapes printed on curved stainless-steel plates. Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714-780-2130, ocma.art

JUNE 24

VERONICA SWIFT

Jazz and bebop singer Veronica Swift was 9 when she recorded her fi rst album with her parents, jazz pianist Hod O’Brien and vocalist Stephanie Nakasian. Swift toured with Wynton Marsalis and Chris Botti before she graduated from college. Now 28, she has released two critically acclaimed solo albums. Vocal ensemble Kings Return will open the show. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

OPENS JUNE 30

THE SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL

Visitors stroll along sawdust-covered paths and dip in and out of booths selling paintings, prints, sculpture, and handmade jewelry created by local artists. Hands-on art activities, glassblowing demonstrations, live music, and outdoor cafes round out the summer tradition. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-494-3030, sawdustartfestival.org

STYLE HOME

FATHER’S DAY GIFT

ÚTHE FIND The Haut à courroies 50 bag in canvas and apricot-colored leather from Hermès ($16,000) this season

Ú GOOD TO KNOW This style was the brand’s first design, created at the beginning of the 20th century.

Ú WHERE The South Coast Plaza location of Hermès and hermes.com

MELIN

The Laguna Beach hat boutique celebrates one year this month. by Chelsea Raineri

Acouple of doors down from La Casa del Camino hotel sits a small black building that is home to Melin’s first retail store. Inside, the walls are lined with the brand’s hats, including the popular Odyssey, a trucker-style hat, and the A-Game, a baseball cap. “Melin customers (are) a whole di erent level of stoke,” store manager Noel Ortega says. “When customers come in and see all the hats displayed, they’re starstruck. They’re really excited to touch the hats, feel them, and try them on instead of just looking at them online.”

Whatever sport or hobby you participate in, Melin has created a hat for it with tailored features. Into running? The Pace has a sweatband designed to redirect sweat to the sides of the face and an antimicrobial lining to prevent bacteria buildup. Love the water? The Odyssey Stacked Hydro floats, so it won’t get lost if it falls o . Customers who sign up to receive texts and emails from Melin are notified about limited-edition products two days before they’re released to the public.

For Father’s Day, shop the A-Game Beam Hydro hat. “It’s every dad’s favorite hat,” Ortega says. “It has four-way stretch, bonded seams, and is super lightweight.” This month, check Instagram for the store’s one-year anniversary event, a newly released youth line, and exclusive products to the boutique, including Laguna Beach-themed hats.

Coronado Neon, $69

GLAD Hydro Odyssey Stacked Infrared, $70

Odyssey Mantra Hydro, $79

The Paincur™ Guarantee

Lynn D. was ready to have a hip replacement. She did not think there was another alternative to remediate the discomfort that kept her from enjoying her bike rides and other physical activities that were part of her beloved routine.

Staci J. tried everything to alleviate the pain from the sciatica that had been troubling her for 13 years.

William Manrow had eight back surgeries but still complained of sciatica and uncomfortable stiffness in his legs.

After Paincur, these patients and many others are now living active, pain-free lives.

Robert H. Odell M.D./PhD joins Concierge Podiatry as Medical Director for Paincur™

Ivar E. Roth, DPM/MPH, Podiatrist and Board Certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, created Paincur™, a revolutionary treatment for acute to chronic pain. Since inventing Paincur™, Dr. Roth has cared for hundreds of patients, successfully alleviating their foot and lower body pain.

Robert H. Odell, M.D./PhD, founder of Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Las Vegas, is joining Dr. Roth to us Paincur™ for patients with upper body pain. As a practicing physician, Dr. Odell has extensive experience in treating pain and will be bringing his expertise to Concierge Podiatry in Newport Beach.

We're proud to annouce that Dr. Roth and Dr. Odell will provide non-surgical treatments for pain of the upper and lower extremities. Paincur™ is non-surgical and does not require prescription medication. Find successful, lasting relief with Paincur™

Are you suffering from acute to chronic pain from sciatica, rheumatoid arthritis, surgical complications, injuries, etc? Paincur™ is your solution.

To find out if you are a candidate, or to schedule a FREE consultation, call our office or scan the QR code below.

HOLD THE LIME

by Chelsea Raineri

1 Angelina charmeuse combo tank, $285, Alice + Olivia, Fashion Island, 949-269-3644

2 Michael Kors Collection crepe jersey necklace gown, $3,990, Michael Kors, South Coast Plaza, 714-557-5600

3 Ellie silver stud earrings in peridot illusion, $65, Kendra Sco , Fashion Island, 949-258-9285

4 Retrofete Paule a wide-leg satin pants, $365, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-759-1900

5 Canal shoe, $250, Fifi Venezia, Newport Beach, fifivenezia.com

6 Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud leather clutch, $545, Nordstrom, South Coast Plaza, 714-549-8300

FOR THE LONG RIDE...

I worked mowing lawns when I was 17 and always went to the dump to get rid of the lawn waste. I couldn’t believe how many beautiful things I found I knew I could fix. After many trips to the dump, I decided to make something that wouldn’t break and save the world. Being a surfer in the 60’s, I came across many broken sandals across the beach. It finally came to me that I could make a better sandal that felt good, lasted long, and wouldn’t end up at the dump in a landfill.

Through trial and error, I developed a “layered construction” by combining improved densities of sponge rubber, which allowed me to repair the sandals if the straps ever pulled out. I used better leather sources and formulated my glue to hold the straps and layers together. The straps were sewn using bonded nylon thread and came together with a 2000 lb. parachute box-x stitch toe construction.

Forty-seven years later, my team endeavors to keep the quality high, repair sandals if needed, and donate old sandals with life still left in them to feet in need. I hope you enjoy my sandals.

- Jay “Sparky” Longley, Founder & CEO

is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization created to help people, animals, and philanthropic groups in need. Rainbow® Sandals Foundation (RSF) donated 700 pairs of Repair • Reuse • Recycle to Capo Beach Church for their Red Door High School Ministry mission to Skid Row. RSF recently helped OC’s Special Spokes (OCSS), a non-profit that makes adaptive tricycles for kids with special needs. If you would like to help Rainbow® Sandals Foundation help others, please go to rainbowsandalsfoundation.org

WISDOM FROM a golf instructor

FATHER’S DAY $6.75

MILLION

San Clemente

à 7,559 square feet

à 6 bedrooms

à 8 bathrooms

à This custom Spanish-style home features panoramic views of the hills.

à Of note: Practice your golf game in the golf simulation room or on the custom pu ing green and sleep in a golf-themed bedroom.

à 3000 Eminencia Del Sur

à Tracy Weintraub, 949-874-8568

Hae-Yoon Jung-Kim is a PGA-certified instructor at The Resort at Pelican Hill. She shares what to expect during a lesson.

BECOMING PGA CERTIFIED …

I was an assistant golf professional in 2009 at Pelican Hill and then I became PGA Class A. In 2015 I applied, studied, and tested and became PGA certified. There were about 200 people taking the test.

WHAT NEW GOLFERS ARE SURPRISED BY …

When you learn how to swim, the coach will break it down.

They will say, “Today let’s use our arms only or legs only.” But somehow when people come to golf lessons, they think they can do it all in one piece while holding the club and it’s very challenging. When I have a new golfer come in, I break it down as well—“Today we’ll just use our hands, or just our head.” Learning is a process; it takes time.

FATHER’S DAY GIFTS …

You can come to Pelican Hill and buy a gift card for an hour lesson. It’s such a great way to celebrate Father’s Day. We have the U.S. Open this month in L.A. You can buy a head cover or ball marker—anything with the U.S. Open logo is a great gift.

Photo credit: The Bowman Group

AN ADORABLE ATTIC

Raili Clasen transformed The Richland’s attic space into a honeymoon suite. by Chelsea Raineri

Walking through the expertly designed boutique hotel in Orange, you’d never guess that the building that is now The Richland once housed a mortuary. Clasen, owner of Raili CA Design, modernized this 117-year-

old space while still honoring the building’s original style. “The most challenging part was definitely the layout of the attic—you can see the ceilings are going every which way,” Clasen says. “They wanted a honeymoon suite, and that was the perfect place to do it; it had to be a little more special.”

“We absolutely loved the beams; they’re all rustic and raw. We didn’t even touch them; we just cleaned them up.”

was to not have a rule. We didn’t want (the pa erns) to clash. … It just had to work with the pale

1 LAMPS “We have a lot of straight lines—the millwork behind the bed, the bed frame—so it’s a nice changeup.”

2 BED FRAME “This is from Stickley Furniture, the original cra sman furniture makers. They’ve modernized their style over the years.”

3 PENDANTS “They remind me of vintage schoolhouse lights. We wanted a light installation instead of just one light.”

4 WALLPAPER “The wallpaper is the strength in this room; it’s the big personality.”

5 BEAMS

6 VINTAGE RUG “My rule

e.”

Photo courtesy of Westminster Teak | westminsterteak.com

Industry Expert Q&A: PG. 48 Trends: PGS. 50-55

INDUSTRY EXPERT Q&A

INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN

Q What’s new in exterior design and remodeling?

A I love when I get this question! We are always showcasing new and innovative designs or product, but this year Pirch is putting our stamp on lifestyle and its approach outdoors. We are able to offer a vast selection of companion products for any project, including pizza ovens, power burners, kamados, and flat top griddles to create endless culinary opportunities. It does not stop there, entertainers and home chef visionaries alike can now merge functionality and performance with thoughtful exterior cabinet design and it’s complete build out with our in home installation services. Our sales consultants are fully equipped to consider every detail, fit and finish, from adorning hardware to faucets and beverage centers.

Q What is one outdoor cooking appliance everyone should give a try?

Earning her degree in Business Marketing as an alumni of California State University Fullerton, Erika has artfully paired her formal education with a passion for kitchen and plumbing design. When she joined the Pirch family in 2015, Erika began as a sales consultant out of the La Jolla showroom. Her love and commitment for her client’s projects propelled continued growth throughout the company, leading her to her current role as Merchant of Outdoor. She has a drive for innovation and creating memorable experiences for Pirch’s customers.

A Everything. No seriously, there are such wonderful cooking and entertaining solutions for everyone’s unique project and lifestyle. Our showrooms can accommodate cooking demonstrations on a variety of product in each location, ranging from pellet grilling to pit master smoking. I encourage all of our clients to make it out and see what product suites them best. If you had to twist my arm, I would say the EVO grill, I am still not quite sure what that grill can’t do!

Q Can you describe a recent vignette that created a lot of buzz?

A Our recent partnership with Twin Eagles and Delta Heat gave us an opportunity to refresh vignettes across our market. Although each of them offer an exceptional level of excitement and charm, I think the most buzz worthy would be the collaboration with Moya Living cabinetry and Lapitec surfaces in the Costa Mesa showroom. This fresh vignette highlights structural beauty, and how you can encapsulate fun and vitality within your project landscape.

Locations

Costa Mesa

Glendale

La Jolla

Solana Beach

Rancho Mirage

Mission Viejo

Laguna Design Center

Pirch.com | 949.429.0800

Q What trends do you see in the future for outdoor kitchens?

A Will color ever go out of style? I hope not. We are currently embracing the majesty of color and its interpretation through our individual customers. Whether you are making a statement with a Flamingo cabinet or are creating a muted beige palate with pops of brass accents, the exquisite scenery of choice is the trend, and it is here to stay.

Erika Hosking Outdoor and Synergy at Pirch

with Erika Hosking

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

Elevate your gatherings by the poolside with the timeless design of the Kafelonia Collection. The addition of curved sectionals to this impeccably crafted teak furniture collection makes it immensely inviting and playfully inviting.

800.446.0001

westminsterteak.com

2 Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

1 Westminster Teak

3 PIRCH

Bath as Art. That’s what faucets from Graff are. And with their MOD+ collection, you can be the artist. Combine 21 finishes including 24K Polished Gold, Architectural Black, Rose Gold, and Polished Chrome with a choice of glossy Tuscan marble inserts in three colors: Storm Black, Smoky White, and Forest Green to create designs that are uniquely yours. Use the link below to learn more about Graff. pirch.com/brands/graff

Costa Mesa – 949.429.0800

Mission Viejo – 949.220.0656 Laguna Design Center – 949.704.0050 pirch.com

4 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

5 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

Step into a world of vibrant colors and cultural art at Bazaar del Mundo in Old Town San Diego. For over 50 years, OwnerOperator Diane Powers and her team have been meticulously curating a collection of authentic folk art, unique women's fashions and colorful home décor that celebrate the world's most distinctive cultures.

Whether you're looking for handcrafted purses, handwoven textiles or hand painted furniture, Bazaar del Mundo has an eclectic array of finds. Take a trip around the world in one shopping trip at the Bazaar del Mundo this summer!

619.296.3161

BazaarDelMundo.com

Marble is really having a moment! Having a magnificent sink sculpted from gorgeous fine marble have been rising in popularity, becoming the centerpiece of a breathtaking bathroom. The possibilities are endless, as a vessel sink or a basin it will be the focal point of the design.

949.536.5055 pacificshorestones.com

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

6 Pacific Shore Stones

8 Superior Tree Care

7 Bazaar del Mundo Shops

9 Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove

Wolf red knobs have been iconic from the very beginning. Now Wolf knobs and bezels come in 10 color combinations allowing you to be uniquely you and coordinate with other kitchen accents. Whether you choose design-forward finishes like brushed brass or gray, or Wolf’s iconic red knobs with stainless bezels, your Wolf Dual Fuel Range, Professional M Series Built-In Oven, or Professional Gas Cooktop will turn heads and inspire a long future of fabulous meals.

Shown with Brushed Gray Knob / Brushed Brass Bezel

Showroom: 657.269.5874 subzerosocal.com/ southerncalifornia

FOOD DRINK

RIBEYE TARTARE

ÚTHE DISH This meaty appetizer is served with alluring grilled so sourdough.

ÚTHE DETAILS Leeks, candied kumquats, chile threads, and toasted bulgur are fused with soy vinaigre e and egg yolk.

ÚTHE PRICE $22 ÚTHE PLACE The Blind Pig in Yorba Linda ÚTURN THE PAGE for our review.

THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN + BAR

Uh-oh,” I think when my friend orders a Crown Royal upon joining the table for a lazy Saturday brunch. We’re at The Blind Pig in Yorba Linda, a spot known for stocking small-batch artisan spirits. So it’s a nope on the Crown Royal. Nope also for Jim Beam. But the cagey server quickly suggests two worthy proxies, arguably upgrades.

My how things have changed here since the restaurant’s debut in late 2019, just before pandemic restrictions would curb dining out. A spino of the popular lakeside original in Rancho Santa Margarita, this new freestanding venue near the Nixon Library was excitedly awaited in option-hungry Yorba Linda, my hometown. But the planets refused to align, dashing my hopes for a winner after persistent accounts of menu clunkers and bumpy hospitality.

Continued stalking eventually revealed that the Yorba Linda menu was evolving to literally meet diners where they live and is no longer a clone of the South County original. Sure, there are similarities such as the strapping burger, tender chicken karaage, or shoo-in deviled eggs, but notable departures now showcase the kitchen’s independence. Executive chef Andrew Davis helms the open kitchen, turning out modern American fare that better suits this town.

The dinner menu is concise, with just enough range to feel complete, though not expansive. A considerable roster of craft cocktails is notably diverse. From a potent top-shelf mezcal Old-Fashioned or Sagamore Rye Manhattan to a bubbly draft paloma to a mulled New York sour, this bar has your back. Five legitimate tiki concoctions boast an

umbrella and a custom pigtail swizzle stick— these folks take their fun seriously.

Starters tend to have a rich edge that plays well with those libations. Ribeye tartare explodes with vibrant elements—leeks, candied kumquats, chile threads, and toasted bulgur fused with soy vinaigrette and egg yolk. It’s served with grilled, soft sourdough almost too alluring, so beware of filling up on it. That lovely fresh bread also accompanies a burrata plate festooned with tomato jam, basil pesto, a swirl of balsamic glaze, and curlicues of crispy prosciutto. Plump coconut curry mussels, perfumed with basil and boosted with juicy hearts of palm, are understandably popular.

Alas, a rock-hard rice cake undermined the savory pork belly adobo. Though summer temperatures might seem at odds with steamy French onion soup, it’s deliciously complex under that molten float of proper Gruyère cheese. Japanese-style fried chicken thighs lacked crunch, but that didn’t bother my table mates, who polished them o immediately.

««« 4975 Lakeview Ave. Yorba Linda 714-485-2594

5 BEST DISHES à Burrata appetizer à Chilaquiles à Pork schnitzel sandwich à Braised beef tacos à Center-cut New York steak PRICE RANGE Starters, $8 to $22 Mains, $21 to $55 Brunch/lunch, $10 to $23

FYI: Free corkage for the first bottle, $20 for each additional one

Modern American fare makes the Yorba Linda location sing. by Gretchen Kurz

LEFT: The mighty pork schnitzel sandwich includes fries.

RIGHT: The central bar anchors the open space.

Papas bravas, a confit of fingerling potatoes layered with chorizo, queso Oaxaca, and avo-aioli, is a side, but also works as a starter or light entree. The two best desserts are all about dark chocolate—the refined chocolatemascarpone tart and the doublechocolate-chip cast-iron-skillet cookie that’s really a flu y brownie under melting vanilla ice cream.

House-made tortillas help deftly seasoned braised beef shank tacos shine, as does the generous portion size. A glorious pork schnitzel sandwich is also mighty big and includes tasty fries. Duck sopes fall flat with a pasty texture and overwhelming spicy heat. Boneless center-cut New York steak is super satisfying—16 ounces precisely grilled to medium-rare that pairs well with unexpectedly nuanced kimchee fried rice. For lighter proteins, look to chicken piccata with risotto; rigatoni with vodka sauce; or glazed Atlantic salmon and squash puree.

A modest selection of enticing lunch and brunch dishes appears

only on weekends. While I can’t confi rm the veracity of the boast, Davis’ World Famous Chilaquiles are undeniably scrumptious. As is the machaca scramble with sweet-smoky salsa negra. For a conventional lunch, there’s a deluxe Cubano sandwich or beer-battered cod and hand-cut fries. Or that king-size burger. If $20 bottomless mimosas call to you, Sunday is your Funday.

Fashionable black floral wallpaper

lends a muted hipness to the boxy space anchored by a central open bar. Vintage prohibition photos reference the era when “blind pig” referred to an illicit speakeasy. Upbeat servers are obliging and well versed. Service is best when the 110-seat room is humming with weekend diners and live entertainment. I never saw the bar as busy as the tables and booths. Jason Friedman leads a swell beverage program complete with weekly discounts on top-flight booze. Tiki Taco Tuesday stars street tacos and $12 tiki libations. Wednesday deals include half-o wines by the glass or bottle and whiskey specials from an impressive inventory. Draft beers from 12 taps are $6 on Thursday.

Like so many new spots reviewed here since 2021, pandemic unknowns made the tough task of launching a restaurant profoundly tougher. Yorba Linda’s Blind Pig succeeds because its determined operators ultimately leveraged a traumatic start into a more intuitive, more welcoming neighborhood hangout.

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

Burrata appetizer with tomato jam and pesto

Leslie Power started 3 SISTERS’ TOFFEE in 2009 after re-creating her grandmother’s English to ee as a corporate gift. A combination of caramel, butter, roasted almonds, and premium Guittard chocolate with a hint of sea salt creates brittle perfection. Year-round flavors are milk chocolate sea salt and dark chocolate sea salt, and seasonal flavors include churro, pumpkin spice, and peppermint ($14). Available at 3sistersto ee.com and select South Orange County markets.

TANIYA AHMED

Ahmed opened Sunbliss Cafe in Anaheim Hills in June 2020. This spring, it ranked No. 6 on Yelp’s Top 100 Best Places to Eat in the U.S. by Colette Nguyen

WHY DID YOU START SUNBLISS?

My grandma always said that it was better to serve than to be served. And I feel like in my upbringing, food is like our love language. It genuinely makes me happy seeing people try our food.

WHAT’S THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR DRINKS?

I’ve always wanted to incorporate things from all the happiest memories in my life and my travels. The blue in our drinks actually comes from a flower I found when I was traveling in Thailand.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?

I love boxing, pottery, and eating.

DO YOU HAVE A GO -TO COFFEE ORDER?

A simple ca e latte. But non-co ee would be our house-made chai because I’m a tea girl.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB?

This is my dream job. I built this place, and I worked hard. I love meeting customers face-to-face on my own, and I still do all the crazy wild stu like marketing and business management—it’s legitimately my favorite thing.

MADE IN ORANGE COUNTY

San Clemente

ARABIAN DELIGHTS

Little Arabia has o cially been deemed a district. by Benjamin Epstein

Diners at HOUSE OF MANDI can sit at regular tables, but reclining Yemeni-style on colorful cushions at low-slung tables is more fun. Fish Mova is a butterflied whole fish with chile pepper and cilantro accompanied by an enormous flatbread. Hrada of Fahsah finds shredded lamb and beef with whipped fenugreek and green chiles served bubbling hot in a carved stone vessel. It comes with a plate of hawaij-spiced rice with almonds, carrots, raisins, and fried onions. If you’re o ered lamb soup before ordering, say yes!

518 S. BROOKHURST ST., ANAHEIM, 657-220-5272

Unassuming AL BARAKA is one of a handful of Orange County spots on Los Angeles Times’ Best 101 Restaurants list. The owners, from Palestine’s West Bank, opened their eatery in 2021. The addictive starter foul tops fava beans with garlicky, spicy tatbeleh sauce; add meat to the hummus appetizer to make it a main. Daily specials are truly special: Sunday’s Makadem & Karshat brings lamb trotters, tongues, and stu ed tripe. Mondays are made for makluba—fried cauliflower, eggplant, potatoes, and rice flipped upside-down.

413 S. BROOKHURST ST., ANAHEIM, 657-220-5296

Anaheim claims Little Arabia, but the neighborhood transcends city borders. Just across Katella Avenue in Garden Grove, bustling fast-casual SABABA FALAFEL SHOP o ers fried-chickpea preparations like those in Old Jerusalem and Ramallah. Enjoy falafel as diminutive balls in bowls or in elaborate pita sandwiches or warm Jerusalem baguettes. Nearly 20 add-ons include spreads (hummus, garlic), sauces (tahini, spicy red), and toppings (sumac onions, yellow chiles). Chicken, ribeye steak, or fried eggplant can sub for falafel. 11011 BROOKHURST ST., GARDEN GROVE, 714-242-8977

The creamy dessertcheese knafeh originated centuries ago in the Palestinian city of Nablus, the recipe using the local white-brine cheese and passed down in a handful of families. The owner of KNAFEH CAFÉ belongs to one of those families. His relatives serve the orangehued dish at shops in Jordan and the West Bank; a mural here shows two practically adjacent shops in Nablus. In Anaheim, the soft or crispy cheese is topped with buttery, shredded, sweetened dough; the pastry madloaa finishes the dough with clotted cream and crushed pistachios.

866 S. BROOKHURST ST., ANAHEIM, 714-442-0044

THE PLACE TO BE

Las Vegas is the perfect destination to experience worldclass dining, luxury shopping, high-stakes gaming, and breathtaking performances that will satisfy all your desires.

GETAWAY OC:

GRAND CANAL SHOPPES

Explore

Discover a picturesque summer getaway in Italy on the glittering Las Vegas Strip— go on a romantic gondola ride down the Grand Canal or take a relaxing stroll along the cobblestone walkways underneath the illuminated painted sky ceilings, as if you’re wandering down the piazza in Venice.

Just like an epicurean experience in the Mediterranean, you’ll discover fresh ingredients and bold flavors that’ll leave you craving more. Relish irresistible summer

foodie finds and indulge in refreshing craft beverages at Villa Azur, TAO Asian Bistro, Trustworthy Brewing Co., and more. Their deliciously decadent seasonal dining is something not to be missed!

Take a break from basking in the warm sun by cooling off at one of Grand Canal Shoppes’ many exciting attractions. Lounge in the shade or take a dip in the pool at TAO Beach Dayclub. Or, explore TAO Nightclub, Atomic Saloon Show, and more exclusive experiences for a night out you won’t soon forget.

As THE must-visit travel destination this season, visit Grand Canal Shoppes for your summer adventure.

Villa Azur

Atomic Saloon Show

TAO Nightclub

ELECTRIFY

RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS

Welcome to the Chef Collection at Resorts World Las Vegas. An outstanding lineup of acclaimed culinary mastery, headlining a diverse array of food destinations.

The names behind Resorts World restaurants' distinct flavors, scents, and ambiance highlight their global appeal, setting a high bar for the Las Vegas food scene.

Taste plant-based fine dining at Crossroads Kitchen by founder, chef, and New York Times best-selling author Tal Ronnen. Award-winning Chef Ray Garcia, known for his acclaimed L.A. hot spot restaurants Broken Spanish and BS Taqueria, brings in a new concept, ¡Viva! Award-winning chef, restaurateur, author, and co-owner Marcus Samuelsson is the chef behind Resorts World's Streetbird hot chicken at Famous Foods.

Enjoy caviar selections by Australian Chef Shaun Hergatt, owner and head chef of Caviar Bar. Next, venture out to explore the bold

flavors of Europe at Brezza and Bar Zazu by Executive Chef and partner Nicole Brisson. Chef Daniel Ontiveros heads Caversteak.

So many dining surprises to discover as you indulge in the food and beverage landscape of Resorts World Las Vegas, curated by "Best Chef on the Strip," Devin Hashimoto, now executive chef of Resorts World. Where will you dine next?

3000 South Las Vegas Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89109 800-445-8667 rwlasvegas.com

Nicole Brisson | Brezza

Daniel Ontiveros | Carversteak

Shaun Hergatt | Caviar Bar Tal Ronnen | Crossroads

Devin Hashimoto | Executive Chef, Resorts World

Marcus Samulesson | Street Bird

Ray Garcia | Viva

OVER 50 DIFFERENT FOOD & BEVERAGE OPTIONS

The Final Season

June 18

SCENE SEEN

CHEF’S TABLE

Illumination Foundation’s 10th Annual Chef’s Table gala raised $1.5 million to help the nonprofit achieve its goal of disrupting the cycle of homelessness. Forty chefs fed 400 supporters at the March event, presented by the Disneyland Resort and held at the Disneyland Hotel. Illumination Foundation co-CEOs Pooja Bhalla and Jack Toan joined event co-chairs Jacqueline DuPont Carlson and Karen Jordan in the celebration.

1. Sol Agave’s winning tablescape

2. John and Caitlin Stamos, Debbie and Glen Bickersta

3. Jacqueline DuPont Carlson, Jack Toan, Andrew Su on, Pooja Bhalla, and Karen Jordan

4. Amar Santana and Edward Park

5. Magda Fichter PHOTOGRAPHS BY WERKIT PHOTO

LET’S BE FRANK ABOUT CANCER

Philanthropist Frank Di Bella and more than 300 others gathered to raise more than $530,000 for City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center and cancer research under the direction of Dr. Sumanta K. Pal at the ninth annual “Let’s Be Frank About Cancer” gala in March at Balboa Bay Resort. Kelly and Duane Roberts were honored with the Frank Di Bella Humanitarian Award. Jann Carl served as mistress of ceremonies.

1. Duane and Kelly Roberts

2. Frank Di Bella and Dr. Michael Friedman, emeritus CEO of City of Hope

3. Scot Ma eson, Jennifer Brown, Lori and Steve Fenton, and Shannon Beador and guest

4. Mikey Lars and Liz Williams

5. Shailey Patel, Shweta Shah, and Reenah Pal

OC ONE NIGHT

The JDRF Southern California chapter’s Orange County One Night gala at VEA Newport Beach raised more than $900,000 in March to support JDRF Southern California, which seeks to raise awareness and find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. The group honored Cathie Lawler for her contributions, and 260 guests attended. Guild board members Min Ji Clark, Marie Hogan, and Bill Peters were the event’s chairs this year.

1. Rose Bauss, JDRF SoCal Orange County Board of Directors President

2. Marc and Ann Withrop, Garrick and Shelley Hollander, and Jill and Richard Golubow

3. Marie Hogan, Min Ji Clark, Cathie Lawler, and Bill Peters

4. Partygoers let loose

5. Stacie and Mark Oshima

Happy Non-Father’s Day

A surprise comment leads to a revelation for this childless writer. by

here’s a day I dread every year.

Terry Black

T“Happy Father’s Day!” everyone says as they share adorable pictures of themselves and their kids mugging for the camera. They dance, they dangle, they skip, jump, or snooze while Dad looks on with a satisfied smile, as if to say, “Can you believe these little tykes contain 50 percent of my genetic material?” Pick a scenic overlook anywhere in Orange County and you’re sure to find dads and kids posing in front of it on the holiday I dislike the most. (Popular backgrounds include Disneyland,

the Balboa Pier, and the Orange County Fair—especially any place with bacon and hot dogs.)

Mom is seldom featured in these pictures, often not even visible, perhaps because she’s the one holding the cellphone camera while her little halfclones cavort, eat messy things, and romp with the family pets—all under the benevolent eye of some proud patriarch, showing o his o spring.

All good if you’re a dad. Otherwise, it’s kind of a so-what holiday.

They say Valentine’s Day is miserable for people not married or dating, ditto Christmas, Easter, and—for all I know—Arbor Day, without special people to share gifts, food, and holidaythemed movies. Well, Father’s Day is no better, with gifts and parties and dinners calculated not to appeal to the childless. What’s an aging non-dad supposed to do on this, “a move-along, this-doesn’t-concern-you” holiday?

You can’t forget about it; it’s all over social media. Everyone I know who is a dad gets Facebook and Instagram and TikTok messages. And Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson posts “Happy Father’s Day, men. We got the best job in the world, leading by example.” That’s nice, Dwayne, but you don’t have to be so proud of it! Show some consideration for us genetic deadenders out here.

PERHAPS THIS EXPLAINS WHY

I’m in such a lousy mood when Lisa drags me to a Father’s Day dinner, featuring her son-in-law, Ivan, and his adorable tween-age daughters, Autumn and Ariah, along with his wife/ their mom/Lisa’s daughter, Brittany, a sweet girl who occasionally swears like a longshoreman. She reminds me of my Gramma James: the same caustic vocabulary but a good person underneath, if you get to know her. Brittany’s defining quality, like Gramma, is her selfless devotion to kids and family … with an

illustration by JAIMIE SHELTON

occasional four-letter emphasis.

So here we are at the Tustin Market Place, having a feast in Papa Ivan’s honor. The venue is the “I Can Barbecue Korean Grill,” so named because there isn’t a chef—the food is cooked by you.

You sit in an industrial space at an impossibly long table, with an inset grill in front of you, ready to cook a first-class dinner. Under the table is a dial control that goes from OFF to REALLY HOT in just seconds. You make your selections—try the jumbo shrimp—and the restaurant provides a tantalizing variety of raw meat, fish, and veggies to slap on the grill. The meal sizzles and cooks and, if you’re not careful, burns, right in front of you.

Little Autumn, now age 9, is especially adept at working the tongs, with the hand-eye coordination of a chef in training—move over Gordon Ramsay. And Ariah, 10, insists that she can do it better, because she’s fiercely competitive and always says that. Their rivalry is epic to behold, and might explain some of Brittany’s language, part of the stress of parenting, I’m told.

But the food keeps coming, and the air fills with the smell of sizzling meat. Soon it’s grilled to near-perfection, and we’re chowing down on thinly sliced brisket, teriyaki chicken, and marinated pork belly, aromatic and tasty. Despite my foul temper, I must say the food’s terrific.

Then the moment of truth arrives.

“Happy Father’s Day!” everyone tells Ivan. Autumn cheers with delight, and even grumpy little Ariah joins the celebration. Yeah, yeah, I’m thinking, scooping a mountain of seared beef onto my plate, Happy Day that snubs the childless. I’ll just skulk around here in the background. I scoop up more beef than I could eat in a week. I decide to share some of the feast with Brittany, sitting hungrily beside me. I figure she deserves it, after her Herculean efforts to contain those little girls.

“Have some more,” I tell her. “I think you need it.”

Brittany digs in. Then she says something that spins it all around, changing everything in an instant: “Terry, sometimes I think of you as my dad.”

And I’m like, holy crap! This is quite a revelation. But I can see how that might be. Because her own dad was AWOL for most of her childhood, moving back East somewhere. She tried to have a long-distance relationship with him, but it proved unsustainable when he stopped taking her calls. Meantime, her mom’s boyfriends never liked her because she made them uncomfortable—except for the latest boyfriend: me.

A sort of honorary dad.

The bottom line: Everyone has two families: the one you’re born with and the one you choose. Both can last a lifetime. Being a brother, sister, mother, or even a father is about more than DNA. It’s sweet and personal, as basic as being there when someone needs you, like my dad was for me. Something as simple as sharing Korean beef, or as complicated as … insert future here. Whatever’s coming, I’ve got Brittany’s back, because as far as I’m concerned, and you can quote me: She’s my daughter.

Happy Father’s Day, everyone! Not so depressing after all.

I can hardly wait for the next one.

PREMIERE HOSPITALS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

From new technology to outstanding medical staffs, these premier hospitals allow patients and families to know that they are getting the best in health care.

Orange Coast magazine is proud to showcase these leading hospitals, and to help our readers find the best possible options for their health care needs.

The new chapter of healthcare begins here

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

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

Learn more at ucihealth.org/irvinehospital

World-Class Maternity Care For All of You .

Women’s Health Institute

Childhood can be uncharted territory. Our experts keep kids exploring.

choc.org

Most-Awarded Health System in Los Angeles and Orange Counties

As Southern California’s largest and most comprehensive health care network, we’re proud to provide world-class care throughout the region. With over 100 combined high-performing distinctions for both specialties and procedures from U.S. News & World Report, each of our 11 hospitals in Southern California is continuously awarded for their quality of care.

Providence.org/SoCalLife

Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center

Holy Cross Medical Center

Little Company of Mary San Pedro

Little Company of Mary Torrance

Mission Hospital Mission Viejo and Laguna Beach

St. Joseph Hospital Orange

Saint Joseph Medical Center Burbank

Saint John’s Health Center

St. Jude Medical Center

TOP 20 CANCER PROGRAM IN THE NATION

Right here in Newport Beach

Our new state-of-the-art facility in Newport Beach is home to world-renowned cancer and blood disorder specialists who will provide the personalized care you need in an environment designed to make you feel most comfortable.

USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 20 cancer programs in the nation and is a leading academic cancer program in Orange County.

Our Newport Beach clinic provides easy access to on-site clinical trials and best-inclass care, so you spend less time traveling and more time with those you love.

Together we are limitless.

Building the future of women’s health together.

At MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, we’re breaking new ground in women’s healthcare. Construction is already underway for the completion of our new Women’s Health Pavilion, o ering a comprehensive array of services in one state-of-the-art location—from expert breast care, gynecologic services, patient navigation, oncology care and more. The pavilion will feature the new Sarah & Taylor Nederlander Breast Center, o ering women a coordinated approach to care with breast cancer screening services, dedicated breast specialists and treatments all on one campus. One community. One commitment to women’s best health.

Learn more at memorialcare.org/womenshealth

ICONIC PLACES in O.C.

When thinking of Orange County landmarks, what comes to mind? Certainly Disneyland. Likely the Fun Zone. What about Huntington Beach Pier or Bowers Museum? Everyone has a favorite spot here that evokes memories. We asked locals to share the intimate stories behind 25 places with which you’re likely quite familiar.

by: ALAN GIBBONS, ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN, COLETTE NGUYEN, VANESSA PAGE, and CHELSEA RAINERI photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

CAPTAINING THE BALBOA FERRY

“M y grandpa used to captain the ferry, and then my dad and his three other siblings worked on the ferry as well. My uncle was in the shop for 45 years doing all the maintenance on the boats. My aunt was running the boat, too, and I think she was one of the first female captains. I was there for seven and a half years, and I was captain for almost two years. I started working there when I was 16; it was my very first job. Everyone there is like a family. We all used to pull pranks on each other.

You become friends with all the locals, and you meet so many people. I think the ferry takes thousands of people a year, which is kind of crazy. … We’d have Dennis Rodman come on. He was a local on the ferry. I remember my first time meeting him; he had on gold nail polish, and he came walking over saying, ‘Give me some love, give me a hug!’ He was super nice.

We had lots of Du ys hit us when we were parked in the slip. There were some nights when we had super strong winds and the current going the same direction, so it’s very di cult to get the boat into the slip. I miss that the most—those challenging nights. We did almost 100 dockings a day, so you get really comfortable with docking the boat.”

—Kayla Smith , former Balboa Ferry captain

SEEING THE AFTERMATH OF THE HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER FALLING IN 1988

“It was huge waves, and all my friends wanted to surf. The waves were breaking so far out that you couldn’t really see where they were breaking. It was also stormy, so the water was all mixed up and it was hard to see. It was just really treacherous out there. It was hitting the bottom of the pier, which is gigantic. The Huntington and Seal Beach piers broke at the same time. I wasn’t there when it happened, but I saw it after and was kind of freaking out because (the surf) has to be so big for that to happen. They had to close the pier—a lot of people wanted to go on it, but it would’ve been too dangerous. I remember after it was broken down, it was weird to not have it there and they had to reconstruct it. Now it’s a completely di erent style. It’s a little bit taller. That pier had been there since the 1930s.

(A few days after the storm) I rode my bike to Bolsa Chica. I noticed a few surfers I knew were going out and it was gigantic; it was Hawaii-style. They were really good surfers; this guy, Scott Farnsworth, he was a famous surfer at the time and this other guy Ryan Keenan. I was like, what the heck. I couldn’t believe (they were going out). There was no one else but these two guys going out.”

—Rick Blake, Portola Middle School art teacher and cofounder of the Surfside Seventies and Sunset Sixties surf contests

GROWING UP IN A CRYSTAL COVE COTTAGE

“M y mother started going down there when she was 12 in 1937 to tent camp along the beach every summer. In 1940, my father’s family came down and they started tent camping as well, so my parents met there in 1940. They ended up acquiring Cottage #2, which is the cottage next to the Beachcomber, when I was just a year old … and I lived there until I was 42 years old. My fondest memories are spending time with my grandmother at the tide pools. There were a couple of pools in particular that I sat in as a young girl, and those memories are just etched in my mind. I had a horse at the Irvine Equestrian Center up on the blu , so I used to wake up early in the morning, run down the beach and up the hill, and grab my horse. I’d ride him down and tie him up in front of the house for breakfast. I always loved to sleep outside on the porch, and I started doing that early on at Crystal Cove and just waking up out there and listening to the waves and being part of nature. The ocean is such a strong force and something I’ve always been really passionate about. It was a childhood that I can only describe as being pretty perfect.”

—Laura Davick , founder of Crystal Cove Conservancy

25 ICONIC PLACES

SURFING THE WEDGE

y favorite memories are riding my bike down there as a little kid from Newport Elementary. I’d go watch The Wedge and started body surfing when it was small with my friends. When I was around 13, I went out there and surfed it for the first time. I was pretty scared. I remember it was a big day and I wasn’t sure where to paddle out, but once I caught my first wave, I was hooked on it. The challenge of surfing (The Wedge) is my favorite. It’s far from the perfect wave, but it’s the biggest one we have on the Southern California coast. It’s a hard wave to surf from start to finish without getting smashed into the sand. I’ve tweaked my back pretty good, and hit my head on the sand a couple of times, but luckily nothing major. It’s definitely worth it. My favorite day out there was in 2017. I caught my biggest waves out there: 25- to 30-foot waves.”

“M

—Tyler Gunter, professional surfer

SURFING PHOTOGRAPH BY TYLER RAMIREZ

25

ICONIC PLACES

THE LIFEGUARD TOWER AT LAGUNA’S MAIN BEACH

1929

Year it was built

8

Years later that it was relocated by horse to Main Beach

400

Square feet in size

365

Days it was used each year until 1985

FOUR DECADES AT PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS

“ I started as a volunteer in 1976. Then I went o to college, got a degree in costume design, came back here, and I ended up starting in the costume department. I’ve been here continuously since 1980. … This site was chosen by Roy Ropp (considered the father of the Pageant) in 1940. There’s a sandstone cave and oak trees, hallowed-out shells, signs of fire. A grinding stone was discovered just a few years ago on this property, so there’s a sacred history here. That it was inhabited by native people means a lot to me. They dedicated the bowl and had just started to do the pageant in 1941, and WWII happened, so we were o for four years. One of the bigger changes we’ve had goes back to 2003. We had some ramshackle buildings and a paint studio with primitive lifts. The board took a real leap of faith in investing. These studios are now 20 years old. In 1993, two weeks after the fires, the rain came, and all the mud and debris came down. A wall of mud wiped out the old workshops and filled the orchestra pit. One of my big memories is recovering after the fire and flood. We survived that. We survived the recall of the board in 2000. We survived a threatened move to San Clemente. And we’ve survived the pandemic. I feel like I’ve survived all of these things and am still here! From the early days, the Pageant has relied on volunteers from all over the area. There is a core of volunteers who just love the summers here, and very long-lasting friendships get forged here.”

—Diane Challis Davy, director of Pageant of the Masters since 1996

COVERING THE WORLD SERIES AT ANGEL STADIUM

“It was over. It didn’t require great expertise to recognize the Angels were toes up. The San Francisco Giants led in Game 6, 5-0, and were eight outs away from capturing the 2002 World Series. Logic did not permit comeback dreams.

Unless you’d been watching the Angels all season. They were the kings of comebacks—51 times they’d battled from behind to win.

What was fi rst called Anaheim Stadium, then Edison Field, and now Angel Stadium, was given new life when Scott Spiezio’s routine-looking fly ball to right drifted into the third row for a three-run home run. Believers suddenly multiplied. When Troy Glaus lined a two-run double for the lead in the eighth inning, baseball’s fourth-oldest ballpark shook to its foundation. A fan base hungry for the fi rst championship in its 42-year history erupted. The stadium actually trembled.

Those plastic Thundersticks that fans had been banging throughout the playo s? Drowned out by the delirium. Like an entire stadium with goose bumps.

The next night, the Angels won their only World Series over a lifeless Giants squad with a 4-1 victory. The high from the previous night carried over to the team and their deafening fans, who seemed to stand throughout almost the entire game. There was room in the baseball heavens for Angels.”

—Steve Dilbeck , Huntington Beach resident and baseball columnist who covered the series for The Los Angeles Daily News

GETTING HITCHED AT KNOTT’S BERRY FARM

“Years ago, my husband and I ‘got hitched’ at Knott’s Berry Farm. This was wildly optimistic since we were only on our third date. But dates one and two had gone well, so we took a chance when we spied the Justice of the Peace shack in Knott’s old Ghost Town section. That night, with the very uno cial Judge Roy Bean o ciating, I promised to darn the socks and wash the underwear of a man I’d met just a few weeks prior. Michael promised to smile when handing over his paycheck, a habit of his I still appreciate to this day. Fastforward 23 years later, I was folding laundry as promised, when Michael popped the question again: ‘Want to renew our hitching vows?’ Because our wedding anniversary was coming up, and guess what? Knott’s still does the hitching ceremony, Judge Roy Bean still presiding (if a little younger and sporting a fake mustache). So on a sunny September afternoon, I wore the same veil I wore to our actual wedding, and we exchanged vows that included: ‘We’re crazy about each other—or just plain crazy.’ No wedding cake, but the boysenberry pie was delicious.”

—Barbara Neal Varma , writer and Mission Viejo resident

BY KALEB TAPP; ILLUSTRATION BY BRGFX AT FREEPIK

THE FOUNTAIN AT PLAZA PARK IN OLD TOWNE ORANGE

50

Years that the original bronze fountain stood a er being built in 1887

$160

Amount raised to purchase the original fountain

1937

Year the current fountain was built

20 Minutes people were allowed to water their sheep at Plaza Park in the early days

17 Episode in season five of “Parks and Recreation” that features Old Towne Orange and the fountain

13

Date in March of this year that the fountain was damaged in a car accident

STARS AT THE PACIFIC AMPHITHEATRE

Open since 1983 on the grounds of the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, the Pacific Amphitheatre has hosted a wide array of artists. The first concerts at the venue included Barry Manilow, The Beach Boys, Oingo Boingo, and Marvin Gaye (in his lastever performance). Here are 30 other notable bands and singers who have graced the stage over the years.

1. QUEEN LATIFAH (1994 )

2. LITTLE RICHARD (1995 )

3. JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS (1998, 2010, 2013 )

4. RICK SPRINGFIELD (1998, 2000, 2018, 2019 )

5. “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC ( 2000, 2010 )

6. BILLY RAY CYRUS ( 2001 )

7. HALL & OATES ( 2001, 2013 )

8. THE B52S ( 2002, 2005, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2016 )

9. HEART ( 2002, 2005, 2009, 2012 )

10. HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS ( 2002, 2009, 2011, 2015 )

11. MARTINA M c BRIDE ( 2002, 2007, 2010, 2012 )

12. JACKSON BROWNE ( 2004, 2022 )

13. THE GO - GO’S ( 2004, 2013, 2014 )

14. REBA M c ENTIRE ( 2004 )

15. CHRIS ISAAK ( 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2016 )

16. LEANN RIMES ( 2005, 2007, 2010, 2014 )

17. MICHAEL BOLTON ( 2006 )

18. BOB DYLAN ( 2007, 2011 )

19. EARTH, WIND & FIRE ( 2007, 2008, 2012, 2016 )

20. WILLIE NELSON ( 2007, 2012, 2018 )

21. B.B. KING ( 2008 )

22. MATCHBOX TWENTY ( 2008 )

23. BLONDIE ( 2009 )

24. KELLY CLARKSON ( 2009 )

25. DURAN DURAN ( 2009 )

26. FAITH HILL ( 2010 )

27. JOHN LEGEND ( 2010 )

28. CHICAGO ( 2011 )

29. WEEZER ( 2011, 2013 )

30. SHERYL CROW ( 2012 )

MARVIN GAYE

BRINGING LUXURY TO SOUTH COAST PLAZA

OWNING A SALON IN LITTLE SAIGON

“ I

’m sitting there working at my desk, and all of a sudden, I sense someone standing in the doorway. And I looked up and here’s this elegant, handsome, well-dressed man standing there. He proceeded to introduce himself to me. ‘I’m Henry Segerstrom, and my family and I own South Coast Plaza.’ (He wanted to convince us to open the fi rst Nordstrom store outside the Pacific Northwest. The conversation continued for 10-plus years.) We’re a couple of old Swedes; we’re not too swift, you know. He kept saying it’s the best place, and we kept saying the rent is too high. Finally, we were both right, and we agreed. The commitment and the amount of money it was going to be, and how much we were going to have to go into hock to do this, was disturbing, to say the least. But Henry held our hand through the whole procedure. We picked the best materials we could pick, the most expensive ones for the case work, for the rugs, the sconces on the wall. Frankly, we wanted Henry to be proud of this thing! It is the most productive store in our entire company, and the lynchpin for that is South Coast Plaza.”

—Bruce Nordstrom , founder of Nordstrom, interviewed in 2006, from the 2016 documentary “Henry T. Segerstrom: Imagining the Future”

“M

y parents came here at the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 and eventually relocated to Southern California. They ended up going into the salon business and opened Advance Beauty College in Little Saigon in 1987 to be closer to the Vietnamese community. When we fi rst came in, the plaza had a bowling alley, an Edwards Cinema, and a Mexican restaurant. Those are long gone and have since been replaced by Saigon Supermarket, Pho Lú restaurant, and Advance Beauty College.

The most profound memories I have are just as a little boy coming to Little Saigon, stepping in our family business, and helping my mom and dad. I remember passing out fl iers with my dad at di erent Vietnamese events and my parents taking me to the Tet parade for Lunar New Year growing up. I remember seeing all these shopping centers have Vietnamese names on them, and I took it for granted that this was unique.

How lucky are we in Orange County to have the largest and oldest Vietnamese community in the world outside of Vietnam, and with the best Vietnamese cuisine? People have to drive for hours or fly in from all over the world to try our food. And here I am, minutes away from some of the best Vietnamese food in the world.”

—Tam Nguyen , co-owner of Advance Beauty College

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SOUTH COAST PLAZA; ILLUSTRATION

OLYMPIC LOCATIONS

The 2028 Summer Olympics will mark the third time Los Angeles is the host city for the international event. So far, it has been decided that the 2028 games will use Honda Center in Anaheim for volleyball events. Here are places in Orange County that served as event sites during the 1984 Summer Olympics.

MISSION VIEJO CYCLING

The 1984 Summer Olympics saw the debut of the women’s individual road race, in which Americans Connie Carpenter-Phinney and Rebecca Twigg won the gold and silver medals. The race marker and finish line are located on Olympiad Road just south of Marguerite Parkway.

TITAN GYMNASIUM, CAL STATE FULLERTON HANDBALL

The Titan Gymnasium hosted all handball matches with the exception of the men’s final, which was hosted at The Forum. Both the men’s and women’s teams of the former Yugoslavia were awarded gold medals.

COTO DE CAZA EQUESTRIAN CENTER

MODERN EQUESTRIAN PENTATHLON EVENTS

The U.S. won both silver and gold medals at this location, now known as Coto Equestrian Preserve.

ANAHEIM CONVENTION CENTER WRESTLING

All 20 wrestling events of the 1984 Summer Olympics were held at the Anaheim Convention Center. Dominating with a total 13 podium victories, the U.S. walked away with one bronze, six silver, and nine gold medals.

ARTESIA FREEWAY ( CA - 91 ) , BUENA PARK CYCLING

The men’s 100-kilometer team time trial took place over a 15½-mile stretch of the Artesia Freeway. Italy’s time of 1:58:28 was an Olympic record. The venue was noted to be one of the dullest in Olympics history.

WINNING THE STANLEY CUP AT HONDA CENTER

“Honda Center has always been a happy place. Every time I’d drive there, I’d go the same way, play the same music at a certain time. I always remember that Game 5 (of the Stanley Cup Finals in 2007) driving there in the back of my mind was like, this might be my last game. Because I thought if we win, I might be done. At the Honda Center, you’d meet the same people … the valet guy, the security, everyone who works there was so friendly and that makes a big di erence. We were up three games to one; we knew we were the better team, and we knew we were going to win this somehow. The seventh player (on the ice) always was the fans. With six minutes to go, we were going to win, so you just try to soak everything in. I didn’t even want to go back on the ice and play. I just wanted to enjoy the feeling from the best seat in the house. … At that point, I said, I’m done for sure. I can’t see any motivation to keep doing what it takes to come back. But I was wrong; I came back and played another seven years. … I still get goose bumps and flashbacks and the feeling of those moments. It’s a very unique place for me. It has been a happy place for me and for my family. My kids came to practice and the games—they acted like they owned the place. It’s always been special to go there. It’s been like a living room; there’s no rush to leave.”

—Teemu Selanne, Hall-of-Fame NHL player and former Anaheim Ducks forward

CAPTURING MEMORIES AT DISNEYLAND RESORT

25

ICONIC PLACES

“ I

was a PhotoPass photographer so I got to work with the characters and make magic. I got to help kids recognize that they were meeting Mickey Mouse in person and capture that for the parents. They used to come to the photo shop, which doesn’t exist anymore—Kingswell Photo Shop on Buena Vista Street. We’d help them out and edit the photos and have great interactions. This (annual passholder), he would make these detailed paper cutout crafts of Disney characters, and he

would give them to other guests. They were beautiful pieces of art. We were always there to capture these interactions. He just loved Disney so much. And he wasn’t creepy about it. He was really lovely. He was so grateful for the joy that Disney had brought him as a kid, and it was a way for him to remember his mom. He shared his touching story with us, and we’d share some magic with him by printing out his photos for free at times. One day, he came into the photo shop, ‘Oh hey, how’s it going?’ And he had made a whole paper

cutout of the PhotoPass team. And he was like, ‘You guys are characters, too.’ He gave us all copies of it. It was amazing. Those interactions matter. They keep people going. I worked there during the golden era of Disneyland. I was there for the 60th anniversary. It was a really cool, chill place to work. We were capturing the happiest moments for these families and their kids. I was grateful to be a part of that.”

—Shirin Haririnia , former Disneyland employee

BOWERS MUSEUM IN SANTA ANA

1936

Opening year of the museum, devoted to the history of Orange County

9 Permanent collection exhibitions currently on display

1992

Year the Bowers reopened as a transformed museum dedicated to showcasing art and artifacts from cultures around the world

30,000 Square feet added in 2007 to increase exhibition space

90,000+

Number of artifacts and works of art in the museum’s collection

150+

Number of special exhibits the museum has hosted since 1992 1993

Year the museum was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of nine “must see” museums in the U.S.

RESEARCHING MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S SWALLOWS

CASA ROMANTICA

“

In 2010, the Mission contacted me and asked if I would come out. They were concerned that they didn’t have cli swallows. I consulted with them; I was out there for like 12 years giving talks about cli swallows. Looking at old photos of that area, even as recently as the mid-20th century, it was very open. It was a coastal plain, without a lot of trees. We have changed the landscape so much that the iconic bird of that area is no longer there. The inadvertent removal of old nests in the ’90s was sort of the nail in the co n. I started to suggest things they might be able to do: keep the trees trimmed in certain areas, birdcall broadcasts. After a while, we went to putting up fake plaster nests, but that didn’t work either. The Mission folks have tried their best to entice these birds to come back. Those e orts have been unsuccessful. I’m sure the crowds in the 1950s would have just loved seeing the hundreds of swallows swarming around the Mission. It would have just been incredible. I so wish we could see that again.”

—Charles R. Brown , Cli Swallow Project director

In 1927, San Clemente cofounder and developer Ole Hanson commissioned architect Carl Lindbom to design his dream home, now known as Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. The Spanish Colonial Revival home became inspiration for the rest of city, which Hanson envisioned as a “Spanish Village by the Sea.” A landslide in April this year damaged the patio at Casa Romantica and closed the facility indefinitely.

25 ICONIC PLACES

WORKING FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS AT THE BIG NEWPORT

THEATER

“ I

’ve been with Edwards since 1991 but I was at (Big Newport) in 1992, so I’ve been through the ‘Indiana Jones’ and ‘Jurassic Park’ movies and the reboots of ‘Star Wars.’ I knew a couple of the fellas who were the greeters, and they needed someone for one night and I said, ‘OK, I can do that.’ It just went from there. I have tremendous memories. We had people meet their future husbands and wives in line. I have people come back and tell me they met when they were here for ‘Star Wars.’ That’s the great thing about being there as long as I have—I get all these great stories from people. Some were 12 years old trying to sneak into an R-rated film and now they have kids. There was always excitement about being in line, and they always had a lot of fun. Every Friday, I had a group that would come and set up a table with a tablecloth and candelabra and they’d have dinner. When I first started, I had a couple—one came from Riverside and one came from San Diego—and they would meet at Big Newport on a date every weekend. It’s a part of a person’s life. It’s been a lot of fun working there, and I look forward to seeing everyone every time they come. It’s my joy now. I always told Mr. Edwards I’d do it for free. Everyone is always in such a good mood. That’s the important thing—for them to always have a good time.”

—Mark Horner, greeter at Regal Edwards Big Newport

MOVIES FILMED AT UCI

The opening sequence of “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes,” the fourth in the five-film series released in 1972, was filmed on the steps of UC Irvine’s Social Science Tower. The school has also been the backdrop to scenes from “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001), “Poltergeist” (1982), and Mel Brooks’ “Silent Movie” (1976).

HELICOPTER AT RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

This is the Sea King helicopter on which President Nixon left the South Lawn of the White House on August 9, 1974. It’s from this helicopter that he gave that iconic double-handed ‘V’ for victory. He was the third president the helicopter had served. ... It went to Cairo when President Nixon visited the Middle East in the summer of 1974, just before his resignation; this helicopter went with him. For so many people, President Nixon’s final ‘V’ for victory is an iconic moment in American history, and you can see it right here (at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum). The movie “Frost/Nixon” was filmed here. ... This is not just an artifact of American history but also of American popular culture.”

“

—Timothy Naftali , former Nixon Library director, from a 2011 episode of “American Artifacts” on C-SPAN

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

FINDING HOME

After serving as chief program officer at Girls Inc. of Orange County for five years, Jessica Hubbard took over as CEO at Casa Youth Shelter in February. Having overcome a di cult childhood, she uses those experiences to empower the teenagers the shelter serves. by Robin Jones

From her first job out of college—a teacher in a Florida middle school—Hubbard knew she wanted to work with young people. “Teaching was my first true love. I did everything: spelling bee, drama club—even though I can’t act or sing. I had eight years of classroom experience and loved every second of it.”

She was teaching “To Kill a Mockingbird” when she mentioned that she’d once considered going to law school. A student asked her why she didn’t, and the question brought her up short. “I didn’t have an answer, and that bothered me. So I decided to go.”

She moved across the country to a end the Western State College of Law in Irvine, where she thrived but also recognized early that she wouldn’t practice law. Through her teaching years, she’d grown passionate about making an impact, and she wanted to get back into that space. She found Girls Inc. “It was the marrying of my greater skills, and I realized, this is where I’m supposed to be.”

During Hubbard’s time at Girls Inc., the group doubled the number of girls it served. “The organization’s mission is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, and I don’t know how you can’t get on board with that. My daughter was 4 months old when I started there, and it was like they were giving me a handbook for how to raise the kind of young woman I want to bring into this world.”

When she heard the story of Casa Youth Shelter, Hubbard was instantly intrigued. The Los Alamitos-based nonprofit, founded in 1978, provides temporary housing, counseling, and therapy to teens in crisis who might otherwise have nowhere to turn for help. “There’s a large group of kiddos living in crisis who don’t qualify for protective custody. Casa is for those kids, and it spoke to me, because I was one of those kids.”

Hubbard lived in poverty as a child; some days she would come home from school to find the electricity or water had been shut o . But “we were never reported because we were always clean enough and fed enough. We didn’t have any visible marks. We slipped under the radar.”

She aims to expand the services at Casa Youth Shelter to include counseling focused on life skills, goal setting, and career and educational planning. “It’s one thing to help pull kids out of crisis, but what happens next? We’re great at disrupting the immediate crisis, and now we want to disrupt bigger cycles.”

Part of that is helping young people create interpersonal connections to help them feel like they belong. “There were so many times where I felt like I was the smelly kid with greasy hair, and you don’t always realize how that a ects your relationships with other people. There’s so much shame that comes along with poverty and abuse.”

She tells her own story to inspire the teens she works with at the shelter. “Our kids need to know: You are not the worst thing that’s ever happened to you. You can be a straight-A student, you can be a lawyer, or a CEO, or a teacher. Or you can just be happy.”

It’s important for people to know that poverty, abuse, and neglect— all of which I survived and experienced— doesn’t always look the way people think it looks.

Summer FUN 2023 GUIDE

Whether you are looking for activities for the whole family, a chance to make unforgettable memories, or even a quick out-of-state jaunt, our Summer Fun guide offers ideas that will inspire and delight!

AT DISNEY’S GRAND CALIFORNIAN HOTEL® & SPA

Welcome to a world of enchantment and luxury at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa, the perfect venue for your next meeting or event. With design-ready spaces, Disney’s legendary customer service and endless creative resourcesyou’ll have plenty of options to make your indoor or outdoor event one of a kind.

The destination’s Craftsman style elegance and Disney’s renowned attention to detail come together to provide an unparalleled event setting, while the state-of-the-art technology and whimsy add a touch of magic to every moment. And with direct access to Disney California Adventure® Park just steps away, your attendees can continue the excitement after the event.*

To learn more, call 321-939-4031 or visit disneymeetingsandevents.com

45,000 of Flexible Indoor & Outdoor Meeting Space

PROXIMITY to Entertainment and Dining Options

LEGENDARY Customer Service

DIFFERENCE

DIRECT ACCESS

The only Disneyland® Resort hotel that offers direct access to Disney California Adventure® Park. Tickets and park reservations required.

Custom Menus

Brisa Courtyard

Trillium Room

Sequoia Ballroom

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa

THE DISNEY’S GRAND CALIFORNIAN HOTEL ® & SPA

Under the stars in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater, you’ll experience 90 minutes of the most incredible re-creations of classical art. Watch as art comes to life as real people are posed to look exactly like the figures in the original masterpieces in this summer’s show, “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists.” JULY 7 - SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

800-487-3378 / PageantTickets.com

Two shows for the price of one! From July 5 to September 1, enjoy the artwork of over 100 artists, art tours, classes, live music, events and more in a large, open-air art gallery!

The Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters are generously supported by:

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

POPPY & SEED

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. $$

CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR

Dead center in Downtown Disney, Catal is the Patina Group’s nod to Spain’s Mediterranean cuisine. Expect an urbane spin on rustic fare such as lobster paella, making this one of the zone’s better spots for fine dining. Just outside, Uva Bar is an alfresco saloon with light eats and great people-watching.

1580 Disneyland Drive, 714-774-4442. $$$

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 tailor unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$

POKINOMETRY

Downtown Anaheim’s build-a-poke-bowl canteen is busy for three reasons: The food is delectable, cheap, and made your way. All the elements of delicious Hawaiian poke are assembled based on what you choose. Pick from cubed raw fish, white or brown rice, fresh onions, cucumber, avocado, mild to incendiary sauces, and vibrant garnishes of smelt roe, sesame seeds, nori, pickled ginger, and wasabi. Parking is problematic, so go off-hours, or pay for a spot in the Wells Fargo garage off West Broadway. 184 S. Harbor Blvd., 657-208-3488. No alcohol. $

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. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130. Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. $$$

THE RANCH

Oozing ambition, this upscale venue boasts a yowza saloon and a fine-dining room so serious about sourcing, it maintains a private farm in the nearby foothills. A whopping menu of decidedly seasonal American fare boasts both uptown and downhome dishes. Live entertainment and dancing keep the deluxe honkytonk hopping on weekends. 1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$

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. $$

TRUE SEASONS ORGANIC KITCHEN

This sleek storefront by Saifon Plewtong now adds wraps, bowls, smoothies, and desserts to a menu that once focused solely on hot pots. Still, the spotlight is on organic, GMO-free local produce and all-natural proteins. Do try the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice for a refresher like no other in these parts. 5675 E. La Palma Ave., 714-462-9223. Beer and wine. $$

URBANA

This colorful 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. $$

ROSINE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

This neighborhood darling includes a 20-seat bar, complete with a full liquor license and a clutch of specialty cocktails. Fragrant rotisserie chickens are always popular, though the menu now offers winebraised lamb shanks, and Pacific ono skewers. A sizable roster of gluten-free choices anchors a spinoff menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

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. $$

MACALLANS PUBLIC HOUSE

Chef Andrew Wang’s modern but comforting pub cooking is just one upgrade that’s helping this young venue finally catch on in North County. Topnotch whiskey offerings and a killer Irish breakfast on weekends also entice. Don’t miss the ridiculously authentic Irish coffee, or stop in for the very robust happy hour. The upscale vibe is a welcome switch from the usual timeworn pub conditions. 330 W. Birch St., 714-529-1224. $$

OLD

BREA CHOP HOUSE

North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class

OUR CRITERIA

Restaurants are reviewed by our dining critics and staff and have no relationship to advertising in Orange Coast. Listings are updated regularly. We do not accept free meals; visits are anonymous. Price classifications are based on a typical three‑course dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert) for one person. Alan Gibbons edits this listing. You can reach her at agibbons@orangecoast.com.

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 Brea’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. $$

THE BUNGALOW

Comfy booths, a lively bar with stiff martinis, and lots of premium wines by the glass lure diners to this dinner house darling with the feel of a Craftsman home. Prime beef is king, but you also can get a huge Aussie lobster tail. Desserts are classic berries and cream, and chocolate souffle cake, so you can concentrate on your surf ’n’ turf. Lunch is hearty sandwiches and huge, high-quality salads. Just save us a seat on the charming patio. 2441 E. Coast Highway, 949-673-6585. $$$

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 restaurantgazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$

FIVE CROWNS

O.C.’s beloved, vine-covered, fine-dining landmark of 1965 stays current thanks to a refreshed menu by executive chef Alejandra Padilla (formerly with Hillstone and Patina groups). Foodies thrill to foie gras brûlée and roast goose with wild grains, but sumptuous feasts of prime rib retain a hallowed

spot on the carte at this Lawry’s-owned institution. As always, service is polished and accommodating. Leave room for the righteous sundae made with C.C. Brown’s hot fudge, an old Hollywood marvel. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-760-0331. Dinner only. $$$

SIDEDOOR

Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes 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

]

DESCANSO

Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$

HABANA

Flickering candles light the way through a highceilinged dining room, convivial bar, and lush patio at The Lab’s enduring Cuban hang for date nights and late nights. Most of the fare sticks solidly to classics, such as roast chicken and ropa vieja, but the appetizer side is loaded with winners. Updates include a lavish, all-you-can-eat brunch with live island music and an array of delicious baked goodies. Intimate confines make reservations a smart move. 2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176. See Irvine location. $$$

HANUMAN THAI EATERY

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.

$$$

This nifty spinoff of the original a few miles north boasts easier access but the same cheerful hospitality and appealing mix of old and new Thai fare. Must-haves include grilled lamb chops, creamytart tom yum soup, and rich kha soi noodles. There are top-tier curries and a creative beer list, too. Long weekend waits are inevitable unless you go early or late. 1835 Newport Blvd., 714-519-0775. Dinner only. $$

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

Shrimp and avocado tostadas at Roxy’z

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

OAXAQUEÑA KITCHEN | PALENQUE

Palenque in Costa Mesa sets itself apart with supercool Tulum-inspired design, including upside-down plants on the ceiling and agave motifs on the walls, and soul-warming Oaxacan dishes by chef Gabriela Gomez. Gomez’s résumé includes Michelin-starred venues Taco María across town, Jungsik in New York, and most recently Electric City Butcher in Santa Ana. Starring starters include camarones al ajillo—whole prawns prepared with guajillo-chile garlic bu er and served with a bolillo—and the masa-crusted potato-chorizo street treat molotes. A recent seasonal salad memorably mixed farro, goat

cheese, English peas, pea tendrils, Meyer lemon, and cilantro. Birria tatemada finds an American wagyu beef shank braised in aromatic Mexicola avocado leaves and presented with traditional accoutrements for sprinkling. Gomez’s elevated pastry training at Jungsik is evident in a filled churro suggesting a Paris-Brest noise e: baked, not fried; a base dough of choux; and inside, horchata cream, pecan praline, and candied pralines. Among cocktail highlights are the refreshing tequila-based Guava-Mente (a take on the paloma by beverage director Julian Flores) and Oaxacan Lover (like a mezcal egg-white sour). 1749 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949-402-9951, palenquekitchen.com BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

PITFIRE ARTISAN PIZZA

cicchetti olives. An interesting, value-packed wine list beckons, as do inspired artisan cocktails. 725 Baker St., 714-557-6700. $$$

OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR

Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with competing options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night. Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world over, and he regularly leads culinary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$

The first O.C. shop from this thriving L.A.-based chain is not your nonna’s pizzeria. Upbeat and come-as-you-are casual, it’s a Cal-Ital original. A menu packed with classic and seasonal wood-fired pies, pastas, and salads has wide appeal, so this retooled Marie Callender’s stays packed with fans of all ages. Check out its backdoor speakeasy, Pie Society. 353 E. 17th St., 949-313-6333. $

TACO MARÍA

Every dish is a marvel of deeply considered modern Cal-Mex cuisine from chef-owner and O.C. native Carlos Salgado, who parked his esteemed food truck enterprise for this site. Even the stripped-down setting draws all attention to

the food. Dinners are four-course prix fixe affairs, with thoughtful wine pairings. Lunch—when the tacos appear—is a more laid-back and affordable way to sample the refined slant that snagged Salgado a Michelin star and several James Beard nominations for chef awards. 3313 Hyland Ave., 714-538-8444. Beer and wine. $$$

DANA POINT

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 Mahe 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

AU LAC

A miraculous menu of traditional Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, without meat or fish, comprises the self-described “humanese” cuisine at this New Agey bistro. A creamy fish-shaped loaf of tofu is unforgettable; so are the spring rolls. Even desserts are healthful, with fruity selections such as Rainbow in the Sky Pie. 16563 Brookhurst St., 714-418-0658. $$

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 juggernaut 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. $$$

FULLERTON

THE CELLAR

Downtown Fullerton’s abiding choice for classy, oldschool French dining is a North County staple for romantic meals, thanks to an underground room that’s ornate, yet cozy. Expect swanky choices such as chateaubriand, and a fine dark chocolate souffle. 305 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-525-5682. $$$

HOPSCOTCH TAVERN

The affable downtown watering hole is unabashedly keen on booze. Artisan cocktails that feature 140 whiskeys and a choice of 80 craft beers are the axis for a limited menu big on brawny proteins, savory carbs, and fried finger foods. The clever revamp of Fullerton’s 1918 Mission Revival-style Pacific Electric Railway Station feels accessible and low-key. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-871-2222. $$

KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN

Born in the crucible of the pandemic, this halal bistro serves flavorful kebabs, curries, and street snacks alongside wood-fired wagyu steaks. Cre-

ator and executive chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in finedining kitchens. Khan Saab has the best-stocked alcohol-free bar in O.C. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$

SUMMIT HOUSE

Set high above Fullerton’s northern city limits, this imposing Tudor manor house offers a sparkling city-lights view at night, though the attractive grounds are pretty by day, too. The American menu offers few surprises; British-style prime rib and oak-grilled Skuna Bay salmon are reliable. Polished service brings back plenty of specialoccasion diners. The cozy tavern bar is popular for light meals and happy hour. 2000 E. Bastanchury Road, 714-671-4111. $$$

GARDEN GROVE

NOVA KITCHEN & BAR

This glamorous sleeper is a terrific dinner choice for distinctive fare that nods to Japan, Korea, and China. The handsome 35-seat covered patio is beyond fine. Executive chef Abel Vargas oversees a sizable menu that also includes showy sushi and top-shelf cocktails. Do consider the tuna tartare, corn tempura, or coriander-braised short rib. Genteel service. 12361 Chapman Ave., 714-6960888. $$$

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 broad menu of American fare, from steaks to steam kettles to Nea-style pizza—even oysters and charcuterie. Solid bets include pizzas, lamb meatballs, and duck confit Milanese. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0038. $$$

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 côte de boeuf for two. Polished service. Live music. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-8000. Dinner only $$$$

KAI

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. 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 vestpocket 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. $$

RED TABLE

The “red” in Red Table, Huntington Harbour mall’s neighborhood tavern, stands for “relax, eat, drink.” The creative menu of American eats is big on highcarb snacks, savory share plates, and strapping proteins that feel right in a welcoming setting accented with quirky design elements and a red communal table. 16821 Algonquin St., 714-846-4700. $$

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 in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

DINING NEWS

To keep up with the latest Orange County dining news, subscribe to our O.C. Dining newsle er and follow our food-and-dining coverage at orangecoast.com.

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. $$$

CUCINA ENOTECA

This 285-seat operation from San Diego’s Urban Kitchen Group offers two sprawling patios and a huge, lively dining room with bar and wine minimarket, and the scene oozes chic with scads of handmade furnishings for sale. The Cal-Ital menu is equally large and inventive, from spreads in Mason jars and salumi platters to house-made pastas. Particularly good for large parties. 532 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-861-2222. See Newport Beach location. $$

HABANA

We waited decades 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. $$$

JA JIAOZI

It’s all about handmade dumplings here. They grace every table, anchoring meals rounded out with other hot and cold dishes. First-timers, ask your able server for help. Top picks include steamed Flaming Hot and boiled Signature jiaozi, along with refreshing tofu-skin salad. Top-notch shrimp fried rice is a winner, too. Watch the masters at work from a five-seat bar. 13776 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714-786-8999. $$

LITTLE SISTER

This Irvine Spectrum spot is an XXL bistro to older sister shop LSXO. Chef-partner Tim Vuong musters a team that pulls off a bigger menu, bigger digs, and a bigger profile with ease. Find proven faves—the overstuffed Viet crepe and the Shaky Shaky Beef— plus new lunch porridges and 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. $$$

MEIZHOU

DONGPO

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

Brown butter roasted maitake mushrooms at Porch & Swing

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

crackling amber skin, for rolling into thin crepes. Weeks of aging, drying, and lacquering coax out heady flavors. Spicy values include dan dan noodles and country-style sliced pork. 15363 Culver Drive, 949-433-5686. Beer and wine. $$$

PORCH & SWING

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. Anaheim location at 1040 W. Katella Ave., 714-294-0362 and Huntington Beach location at 7821 Edinger Ave., 714-316-0151. $$

SESSIONS

No. 3 is a charm for O.C.’s indie chainlet of “West Coast” delis. Expect terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two, gourmet creations that are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. Fromscratch soups, sides, and dressings. A beguiling lakeside setting beckons for lazy breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 4736 Barranca Parkway, 949-333-3949. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

TACO ROSA

With agave-sweetened margaritas, daily aguas frescas, and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. Try the Oaxacan enchiladas. 13792 Jamboree Road, 714-5056080. See Newport Beach location. $$

LAGUNA BEACH

BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA

Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate team up 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. $$$

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 Euroinflected 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, 949376-1000. $$$

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. Brunch items and craft drinks also are good bets. 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, 949-715-7700. $$

LUMBERYARD

Veteran local restaurateur Cary Redfearn brought new life to this downtown landmark with a welcoming bar and comfort classics such as meatloaf and chicken potpie that lure tourists and villagers alike. Look for a solid happy hour. 384 Forest Ave., 949-715-3900. $$

MOZAMBIQUE

The eclectic cuisine shows influences of South Africa. Peri-peri prawns, curries, and grilled meats are best bets. The wine list includes interesting selections from South Africa and New Zealand. 1740 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-7777. $$$

NICK’S

Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this 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 truffleperfumed 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 S. 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 peoplewatching. 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 cocktails shift with the seasons. On-point service from a gracious crew. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-4468772. 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 worthy margaritas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well-executed shrimp ceviche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchiladas. Huge portions, sharp service, and modern digs seal the deal. Scores of sipping tequi-

las 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 chickenfontina flatbread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-2481912. $$

LA HABRA

EL CHOLO

It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with olives and a fried egg. Green corn tamales (available seasonally) have achieved cult status. This location oozes a family vibe. 840 E. Whittier Blvd., 562-691-4618. See Anaheim Hills and Corona del Mar locations. $

MISSION VIEJO

DUBLIN 4 GASTROPUB

Publicans Darren and Jean Coyle welcome a varied crowd to this chipper modern pub, designed to rival Dublin’s finest. Executive chef David Shofner applies fine-dining cred and scratch cooking to a

Sapphire salad at Sapphire Cellar Craft Cook

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

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 the waterside venue into a gastropub with a newly youthful vibe. Expect all the usual share plates: battered fries, shishito peppers, bacon-wrapped dates, plus several hearty plates including a worthy Kobe burger with bacon mayo on a cheddar-bacon bun. Bold, neonautical decor plays off the “anchors and oceans” theme and brings the bay view to life. The water’s-edge patio is inviting for sunset drinks or gathering ’round the fire pit. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Highway, 949-630-4285. $$

BAYSIDE

Classy Bayside remains a go-to choice on many fronts. Nightly happy hour stars a winning small-

plates menu that keeps the bar hopping. Rotating artwork keeps the dining room ever fresh for relaxed meals of debonair American fare. Long 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. Sublime chefs’ dinners are intimate, unforgettable affairs. 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 substitutions, no reservations, and snappy service. Standouts include tian Provençal, beef bourguignon, and profiteroles. 1000 N. Bristol, 949-418-9549. $$

CUCINA ENOTECA

Chef de cuisine Cesar Sarmiento helms the busy scratch kitchen of this Fashion Island sibling. The sprawling, lively space with its alluring garden room, hip cocktails, and fun wines supports inventive takes on classic pastas, cured meats, and cre-

Shine Bright

Dr. Simpson is a compassionate and skilled general and cosmetic dentist who has been serving the Yorba Linda community since 2023. She is the founder of Diamond Dentistry, a state-of-the-art dental practice that offers a wide range of services to meet the needs and preferences of her patients.

Dr. Simpson has a diverse educational background that re ects her passion for helping people. She graduated with a degree in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara and continued her education with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. She then pursued her dream of becoming a dentist and earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from USC Dental School.

Dr. Simpson is committed to providing the highest quality of care to her patients and staying updated on the latest advances in dentistry. She is a certi ed Invisalign Preferred Provider and a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Orange County Dental Society. She also takes continuing education courses to enhance her skills and knowledge in various aspects of dentistry.

Dr. Simpson believes that dentistry is more than just xing teeth; it is about building lasting relationships with her patients based on trust and respect. She strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment where patients can feel at ease and con dent in their smile. Dr. Simpson enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and reading in her spare time.

If you are looking for a dentist who cares about you as a person and not just a patient, Dr. Simpson is the one for you. Contact Diamond Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference that Dr. Simpson can make for your oral health and smile.

ative breads. Like the Irvine location, this venue offers a retail wine boutique and lots of quirkychic furnishings for sale. Daily happy hour is a deal for tony Fashion Island. 951 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-1416. See Irvine location. $$

FABLE & SPIRIT

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. $$$

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. $$$

JOEY

Expect Fashion Island’s first new restaurant in years to remain the toughest table in town for a bit. Diners flock to this see-and-be-seen mega venue for jazzy drinks and daily early and late happy hours backed by casual eclectic fare with a premium tilt. Don’t miss the dynamite hummus platter, steak-

HEATHER SIMPSON, D.D.S.

I am immensely thankful for the community of people who have become more than just patients to me, but also my friends and my strongest allies. My vision for my practice has always been clear: I want to offer dental and cosmetic services that enhance health and well-being, and provide resources that cultivate self-con dence so that everyone can live their best lives! When we look our best, we feel the best. When we feel our best, we can face the world with con dence and readiness to overcome any challenge.”

and-sushi combo, and the unexpectedly wondrous chicken Parmesan. The all-day menu has many upgrade options, allowing diners to choose or decline splurges as budgets allow. 455 Newport Center Drive, 949-826-5699. $$$

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 from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood, Sapphire, 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, 949-287-6807. 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, and sakes. 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. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus get tweaked seasonally. The adjacent Bootlegger’s Bar boasts umpteen firstrate cocktails plus dreamy bar bites. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$

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, 714434-7900. $$$

Duck chilaquiles at Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

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. $$

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-on-

43 YEARS

ion 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. 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., 714221-0680. $$

PUBLIC LEGACY

This spot is a maverick indie in a sea of corporate eateries, serving elevated scratch pub grub and top-shelf cocktails. Brunch is served daily, but after 2 p.m., hearty shareables, burgers, and steaks rule. Look for a terrific frittata, sublime sunflower hummus, and a mighty Reuben. The 30-stool bar traverses two settings—one sunny and the other a cozy den. 1547 W. Katella Ave., 657-598-2450. $$

SAN CLEMENTE

GEMA

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

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

Executive chef Juan Pablo Cruz and owner Sarah Resendiz create 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 huitlacoche cheese, tamarind adobo wagyu steak, and sublime mole. Craft cocktails, Baja wines, and

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2023

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. $$$

Distinctive Shopping & Dining

Orange county’s most unique shopping experience

SUMMER CONCERTS ARE BACK

Select Friday Nights from 5-8pm

June 23, US99

July 21, Sligo Rags

August 25, The Fun Ghouls

CHARLESTON PROVENCE BOUTIQUE

Saturday, August 26, 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

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

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

BLOOM This charming spot packs its 90-seat house with followers of its siblings (Ironwood, Olea, Sapphire, Vine) and fans of wine country eats by Jared Cook, craft cocktails by Gabe Whorely, and the inimitable hospitality of owner Russ Bendel. Winners include fried squash blossoms, bourbon-spiked pâté, herb-brined pork porterhouse, and Idaho trout over sprightly succotash. The artfully retrofitted 1923 brick digs are just steps from Mission San Juan Capistrano. 31760 Old Mission Road, 949-503-2654. $$$

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. $$$

SANTA ANA [

BENCHMARK

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. $$

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 is executive chef. Look for dinner nightly and lively 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 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. $$

SILVERADO CANYON

XACALLI KITCHEN

Scenic Silverado Canyon’s latest Mexican venue has fine-dining ambitions via executive chef Vincent Espinoza, formerly of AnQi, Chaak, and Gabbi’s. Local farms and gardens enhance the highly seasonal fare and cocktails here. Don’t miss the Jalisco-style lamb

birria, the Oaxacan queso fundido, or signature desserts. The low-slung building behind a colossal oak tree was retooled with materials reclaimed from a 1904 lemon packing house. 28222 Silverado Canyon Road, 657-314-9042. 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. $$$

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 ever 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 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. $$$

OUTPOST KITCHEN

A native of Australia’s Gold Coast, founder Jay Lewis brings a surf culture vibe and his passion for clean eating to colorful bowls and salads. The breezy patio beckons for weekend brunch or pretheater dining. 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

New York steak taco at Chato’s Bar and Grill

photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

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. $$$

TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR

South Coast Plaza’s welcoming all-day cafe and bakery defies easy categorization. Chef and co-owner John Park’s canny brunch and dinner dishes are at once familiar and novel. Think souffle-light cream brûlée French toast with seasonal fruit, grilled avocado on kale Caesar salad, and crab cake arrabbiata with house-made spaghetti. Desserts are dazzlers, as are grab-and-go croissants. Captivating cocktails are discounted during midweek happy hour. 3333 Bear St., 714-872-8054. $$

TERRACE BY MIX MIX

Savvy 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. $$$

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. 405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$

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 slid-

ing 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 cocktails or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$

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. 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., 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

THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN + BAR

NEW This 2019 arrival at last finds its rhythm, enticing locals with a kitchen more independent of the Rancho Santa Margarita mothership. High-flavor modern eats include braised beef tacos with house-made tortillas, burrata with seasonal frills, and soulful French onion soup. Weekend brunch swaps in egg dishes and deluxe sandwiches. Like the original, the beverage program is strokes above par, featuring small-batch spirits, rotating brews, and a tight list of worthy wines. Midweek happy hours and nightly deals add extra value. 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2594. $$

BLUE AGAVE

Southwestern favorites, from tamales to carnitas, and mole enchiladas in generous portions, keep regulars coming back. The buzzy cantina is awash in modern margaritas that rival any top Mexican bar. For something different, try the Puerto Nuevo tostada with shrimp, mahi-mahi, sour cream, and raspberries in a pumpkin seed-citrus dressing. 18601 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714-970-5095. $$

Blueberry pancakes at Outpost Kitchen

2023 ORANGE COUNTY

FIVE STAR AWARD WINNERS

These days, it takes a village to manage your nancial world. Whether it is managing your assets with a wealth manager, navigating the ever-changing tax landscape, sorting out your estate and succession planning or picking the right life insurance, nding the right team can be a daunting task. In fact, many consumers have a hard time guring out where to even begin.

Sometimes, a few simple questions can put you o on the right path. Asking a professional what makes working with them a unique experience can help you understand how they work and if their style meshes with your own.

This is a great place to start! Five Star Professional uses its own proprietary research methodology to name outstanding professionals, then works with publications such as Orange Coast magazine to spread the word about award winners. Each award candidate undergoes a thorough research process (detailed here) before being considered for the nal list of award winners. For the complete list of winners, go to www. vestarprofessional.com.

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER DETERMINATION OF AWARD WINNERS CRITERIA

Award candidates who satisfied 10 objective eligibility and evaluation criteria were named 2023 Five Star Wealth Managers. Eligibility Criteria – Required:

1. Credentialed as a registered investment adviser or a registered investment adviser representative.

RESEARCH DISCLOSURES

In order to consider a broad population of high-quality wealth managers, award candidates are identified by one of three sources: firm nomination, peer nomination or prequalification based on industry standing. Selfnominations are not accepted. Orange County-area award candidates were identified using internal and external research data. Candidates do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final lists of Five Star Wealth Managers.

• The Five Star award is not indicative of a professional’s future performance.

• Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and therefore may not manage their clients’ assets.

• The inclusion of a professional on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the professional by Five Star Professional or Orange Coast magazine.

• Working with a Five Star Wealth Manager or any professional is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected professionals will be awarded this accomplishment by Five Star Professional in the future.

• Five Star Professional is not an advisory firm and the content of this article should not be considered financial advice. For more information on the Five Star Wealth Manager award program, research and selection criteria, go to fivestarprofessional.com/research.

• 2,576 award candidates in the Orange County area were considered for the Five Star Wealth Manager award. 160 (approximately 6% of the award candidates) were named 2023 Five Star Wealth Managers.

All award winners are listed in this publication.

Financial Planning

Rudolph Brandes ∙ Mercer Advisors

Frank A. Deptola ∙ Frank Deptola & Associates

Krista Fredrickson Murray ∙ PSM Private Wealth Management

Matthew Pixa ∙ My Portfolio Guide, LLC

Todd Allen Rustman ∙ Clarity Capital Partners

Michael Farah ∙ Farah Private Wealth Management Page 2

Walt J. Hommerding ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Page 7

Gary Dean Hutto ∙ HuttoDean Financial Advisors

2. Actively employed as a credentialed professional in the financial services industry for a minimum of five years.

Kristoffer Norman Fu ∙ Maven Bridge Capital

3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review.

4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal firm standards.

5. Accepting new clients. Evaluation Criteria

James A. Shanton ∙ Mercer Advisors Page 5

Lisa Lynn Lockerman ∙ Lockerman Financial Group

– Considered: 6. One-year client retention rate.

10. Education and professional designations.

7. Five-year client retention rate.

9. Number of client households served.

8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered.

Regulatory Review: As defined by Five Star Professional, the wealth manager has not: been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; been convicted of a felony. Within the past 11 years the wealth manager has not: been terminated from a wealth management or financial services firm; filed for personal bankruptcy; had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them (and no more than five total pending, dismissed or denied) with any regulatory authority.

Five Star Professional conducts a regulatory review of each nominated wealth manager using the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) website. Five Star Professional also uses multiple supporting processes to help ensure that a favorable regulatory and complaint history exists. Data submitted through these processes was applied per the above criteria; each wealth manager who passes the Five Star Professional regulatory review must attest that they meet the definition of favorable regulatory history based upon the criteria listed above. Five Star Professional promotes via local advertising the opportunity for consumers to confidentially submit complaints regarding a wealth manager.

Thomas R. Graffeo ∙ Dove Investment Research & Management

Tina Marie Hum ∙ TMH Financial, Inc.

Tracy O. Jackson ∙ Mercer Advisors Page 5

D. Paul Kalra ∙ Signature America Wealth Management Page 4

Rod Kamps ∙ Financial Advisors Network, Inc. Page 3

Matthew Kristian Todsen ∙ MKT Wealth Management Investments

Randall Lee Allen ∙ Kayne Anderson Rudnick Wealth Advisors

Gina Cereda ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Page 7

Annette Di Bello ∙ Di Bello Financial

Jeannette M. Dobbyn ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Page 6

John B. Lyon ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Page 6

Aaron Overlien ∙ New York Life Page 6

Tracy J. Riddle ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Page 7

Jared Tanimoto ∙ Ascent Wealth Advisors

Taxation

Troy Yoshida ∙ Troy Yoshida CPA

Continued on FS-8

This award was issued on 05/01/2023 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 07/25/2022 through 02/10/2023. Fee paid for use of marketing materials. Orange County-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 160 (6% of candidates) were named 2023 Five Star Wealth Managers. The following prior year 144, 6%,

Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers. The award is based on 10 objective criteria. Eligibility criteria – required: 1. Credentialed as a registered investment adviser (RIA) wealth manager has not; A. Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; B. Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total authority or complaints registered through FSP’s consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client’s experience; C. Individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; D. Filed for Evaluation criteria – considered: 6. One-year client retention rate; 7. Five-year client retention rate; 8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9. Number of client households served; 10. Education therefore may not manage their clients’ assets. The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five

Visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.

Michael Farah

Michael Farah has over 44 years of investment experience. At Farah Private Wealth Management, we have vast experience with CPAs and tax attorneys who come through referrals from families we have worked with.

Our private portfolios are tailored to the unique circumstances and objectives of our clients. Careful consideration goes into tax considerations, risk versus return and other nancial tools such as your retirement objectives.

Farah Private Wealth Management is speci cally engaged in income and growth as the primary objective. Dividend return is speci c to our portfolio returns and goals. Growth is an objective to keep up with in ation.

Farah Private Wealth Management

• Works with high net worth clients in need of a manager who is of high net worth himself

• Trust and estate planning for families

• Full-service estate management, including personal and investment properties, home care management and managing monthly expenses

• Works with charities, religious organizations and family foundations

2,576 Orange use this format: YEAR: # Considered, # Winners, % of candidates, Issued Date, Research Period. 2022: 2,482, 143, 6%, 5/1/22, 8/30/21 - 3/4/22; 2021:

completed questionnaire was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

-

16%,

-

or a registered investment adviser representative; 2. Actively licensed as a RIA or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the of five settled, pending, dismissed or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory personal bankruptcy within the past 11 years; E. Been terminated from a financial services firm within the past 11 years; F. Been convicted of a felony); 4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. and professional designations. FSP does not evaluate quality of services provided to clients. The award is not indicative of the wealth manager’s future performance. Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected wealth managers will be awarded this accomplishment by FSP in the future.

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER AWARD WINNER

2023 winner Michael Farah

WEALTH MANAGERS

Financial Advisors Network, Inc.

The New Standard in Personalized Wealth Management

At Financial Advisors Network, Inc., we believe in putting clients rst. We recognize that we hold a unique place of trust in the lives of many people and prioritize our duciary duty in all aspects of our business. We act with independence and objectivity, and we apply our skills, competence and diligence for the bene t of our clients.

We highly value education. Our planners are passionate about teaching and believe continued education is the key to empowering our clients. We hold relevant seminars on a regular basis so we can make sound decisions together in our frequent client reviews.

Furthermore, we believe client service should be our utmost priority, so we can e ectively address our clients’ needs. We use a service-based team model and have trained professionals to guide you through the nancial maze. Our team philosophy allows us to service your nancial planning needs with the highest level of quality assistance.

Whether you are planning for retirement or are already retired, we o er comprehensive nancial planning services to help you make prudent decisions regarding tax planning, retirement planning, estate planning and investment management. Contact us today to set up a complimentary nancial consultation.

• Prioritizing client education with the belief that prudent decisions are born from proper understanding

• Providing planning services covering all aspects of your financial life, from taxes and estate planning to retirement and investment management

This award was issued on 05/01/23 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 07/25/22 through 02/10/23. Fee paid for use of marketing materials. SelfCounty-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 160 (6% of candidates) were named 2023 Five Star Wealth Managers. The following prior year statistics

Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers. The award is based on 10 objective criteria. Eligibility criteria – required: 1. Credentialed as a registered investment adviser (RIA) wealth manager has not; A. Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; B. Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total authority or complaints registered through FSP’s consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client’s experience; C. Individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; D. Filed for Evaluation criteria – considered: 6. One-year client retention rate; 7. Five-year client retention rate; 8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9. Number of client households served; 10. Education therefore may not manage their clients’ assets. The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five

Left to right: Brian Douglass, CFP®, AIF®, EA; Macaela Fahey; Phillip Do, AIF®; Christina Coulter; David Reiter, QKA®, AIF®; Amy Kamps; Nine-year winner Rod Kamps, CFP®, AIF®; Tyler Thompkins; Gabriella Perez, AIF®; Teresa Camacho, AIF®; Nathan Taccini, CFP®, AIF®; Joe Pence, ChFC®, AIF®; Rohan Nakrani, MBA, CFA®

D. Paul Kalra

Our reasons for becoming nancial professionals are deeply personal. We have seen people in angst when they lose a signi cant portion of their assets near retirement or in retirement. Market volatility can be cruel. After years in the business, we have developed a reputation for building nancial strategies that help reduce or eliminate this distress for our clients. We engage special investment strategies, which can help reduce risk in our clients’ portfolios while creating growth and income for them. We help clients arrange their assets so they may feel a sense of nancial well-being for the rest of their life.

22956 El Toro Road • Lake Forest, CA 92630 Phone: 800-677-5001 • paul@happypaul.com www.signatureamerica.com

completed questionnaire was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

2,576 Orange use this format: YEAR: # Considered, # Winners, % of candidates, Issued Date, Research Period. 2022: 2,482, 143, 6%, 5/1/22,

-

or a registered investment adviser representative; 2. Actively licensed as a RIA or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the of five settled, pending, dismissed or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory personal bankruptcy within the past 11 years; E. Been terminated from a financial services firm within the past 11 years; F. Been convicted of a felony); 4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. and professional designations. FSP does not evaluate quality of services provided to clients. The award is not indicative of the wealth manager’s future performance. Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected wealth managers will be awarded this accomplishment by FSP in the future.

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER AWARD WINNER

Investment Adviser Representative of and investment advisory services offered through Royal Fund Management, LLC a SEC Registered Investment Adviser.

2023 winner D. Paul Kalra

360-Degree Holistic Financial Planning

WEALTH MANAGERS

Welcome to a Different Kind of Wealth Management

We believe that wealth management is much more than managing your portfolio. Instead, it’s about connecting all aspects of your nancial life to help guide you to your ultimate destination. One where you can work hard by choice, not by necessity. And where you have the freedom to do what you want when you want.

We bring together an in-house, national team of specialized expertise across nancial planning, investments, tax strategies, estate planning, trustee services, insurance and more. We’re able to communicate with each other, about you and with you.

Mercer Advisors is built on the principle that every aspect of your nancial life is just as important

•

as any other. And that getting to know what’s really important to you is the rst step toward helping you connect all your nancial dots, so you can get to where you want to be.

With over eight decades of combined wealth management experience, our team is ready to manage every aspect of your nancial life for you with a range of services, including: •

•

620 Newport Center Drive, No. 1030 • Newport Beach, CA 92660 Office: 714-434-6900 • merceradvisors.com

Mercer Global Advisors Inc. is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and delivers all investment-related services. Mercer Advisors Inc. is the parent company of Mercer Global Advisors Inc. and is not involved with investment services. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the C ERTIFIED F INANCIAL P LANNER ™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are registered trademarks owned by CFA Institute. ©2023 Mercer Global Advisors Inc. All rights reserved. Please Note: Limitations. Neither rankings and/or recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, publications, media, or other organizations, nor the achievement of any professional designation, certification, degree, or license, membership in any professional organization, or any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if Mercer Advisors or its investment professionals are engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A fee was not paid by either Mercer Advisors or its investment professionals to receive the award or ranking. The award or ranking is based upon specific criteria and methodology (see ranking criteria/methodology). No ranking or recognition should be construed as an endorsement by any past or current client of Mercer Advisors or its investment professionals.

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER AWARD WINNER

This award was issued on 05/01/23 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 07/25/22 through 02/10/23. Fee paid for use of marketing materials. SelfCounty-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 160 (6% of candidates) were named 2023 Five Star Wealth Managers. The following prior year statistics

Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers. The award is based on 10 objective criteria. Eligibility criteria – required: 1. Credentialed as a registered investment adviser (RIA) wealth manager has not; A. Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; B. Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total authority or complaints registered through FSP’s consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client’s experience; C. Individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; D. Filed for Evaluation criteria – considered: 6. One-year client retention rate; 7. Five-year client retention rate; 8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9. Number of client households served; 10. Education therefore may not manage their clients’ assets. The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five

Left to right: Rudy E. Brandes, J.D., LL.M., CFP®; Joanna Hsu, FPQP®; Pamela Brown; Eleven-year winner James A. Shanton, CFP®; Twelve-year winner Tracy O. Jackson, M.S., CFP®, Client Advisor, Branch Manager; Roxanne Konieczka; Eunice Kim, MBA, CIMA®, CFP®

WEALTH MANAGERS

Jeannette M. Dobbyn and John B. Lyon

Wells Fargo Advisors

• Serves families’ needs for financial guidance through all life events

• Investment advisory services and wealth management strategies to help grow and preserve wealth

The Lyon Dobbyn Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors de nes a nancial advisor as 1) an excellent listener who listens to and understands a client’s problems, concerns and needs; 2) one who translates these issues into a mix of investments tailored to the client’s speci c requests and goals; 3) one who informs and educates, provides professional nancial advice and service tailored to speci c requests and goals; 4) one who, only then, implements a client’s decision. A relationship based on integrity, knowledge and e ort is the key to achieving long-term goals.

135 S State College Boulevard, Suite 550 Brea, CA 92821 Office: 855-674-0360 john.lyon@wellsfargoadvisors.com jeannette.dobbyn@wellsfargoadvisors.com

Investment and Insurance Products:

NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. [CAR 0223-00674].

Aaron Overlien

CRPC®, AAMS®, CLTC®, WMCP®, Financial Professional

People • Purpose • Planning

• Protect your family’s future

• Preserve your assets for future generations

• Protect and grow your business

• Grow your wealth

• Protection, accumulation, preservation

• Prepare for retirement

26501 Rancho Parkway S, Suite 102 Lake Forest, CA 92630 Office: 949-600-8255 • Cell: 562-686-4912 aoverlien@ft.newyorklife.com

Aaron has made a career at New York Life since he graduated from BIOLA University in 2008. He serves primarily entrepreneurs, professionals and retirees. He is a proud member of The Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT)* and the National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors (NAIFA). The attainment of many designations throughout his career has accelerated his radiance in nancial guidance. He and his wife, Lindsey, are proud to operate his practice out of their o ce in Orange County, California. They have two elementary-age kids, and Aaron greatly enjoys coaching his sons’ youth football and basketball teams.

*8-year quali er. The Million Dollar Round Table(MDRT), The Premier Association of Financial Professionals, is recognized globally as the standard of excellence for life insurance sales performance in the insurance and nancial services industry. Agent with New York Life Insurance Co. Registered Rep with NYLIFE Securities LLC, (Member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. Financial Advisor with Eagle Strategies, A registered Investment Adviser. NYLIFE Securities and Eagle Strategies are New York Life companies.

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER AWARD WINNER

completed questionnaire was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. 2,576 Orange use this format: YEAR: # Considered, # Winners, % of candidates, Issued Date, Research Period. 2022: 2,482, 143, 6%, 5/1/22,

or a registered investment adviser representative; 2. Actively licensed as a RIA or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the of five settled, pending, dismissed or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory personal bankruptcy within the past 11 years; E. Been terminated from a financial services firm within the past 11 years; F. Been convicted of a felony); 4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. and professional designations. FSP does not evaluate quality of services provided to clients. The award is not indicative of the wealth manager’s future performance. Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected wealth managers will be awarded this accomplishment by FSP in the future.

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER AWARD WINNER

Left to right: 2015 – 2023 winner John B. Lyon, Senior Vice President – Investments; Stacy R. Stryker, Senior Registered Client Associate; 2012 – 2023 winner Jeannette M. Dobbyn, Senior Vice President – Investments

WEALTH MANAGERS

Tracy J. Riddle

Senior Vice President – Investments, Senior PIM Portfolio Manager, CA Lic. 0A67694, NMLS 997895

Prepared To Give You the Attention You Deserve

• Over 50 combined years of experience in financial services

• Clarity and confidence in planning

Senior Vice President – Investments and Senior PIM Portfolio Manager Tracy J. Riddle has over 30 years of nancial services experience. He uses his depth of knowledge in the industry to help his clients design strategies for their long-term goals. His areas of focus include executive stock options, 401(k) options, family and individual nancial wealth management and education saving strategies. His assistant Ti any L. Dawson is a veteran with over 20 years of experience in the nancial services industry. She has been working with Tracy Riddle for over ten years. Her mission is to assist Tracy as they build longterm relationships based on trust with a deep understanding of their clients’ needs.

520 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1700 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Phone: 888-711-4567 • Phone: 949-294-8584 tracy.riddle@wellsfargoadvisors.com fa.wellsfargoadvisors.com/riddle

Investment and Insurance Products:

NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. CAR-0323-03730.

Walt J. Hommerding

– Investments

Gina Cereda Managing Director

Managing Director – Investments, Senior PIM Portfolio Manager

520 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1700 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Cell: 949-836-4303

Office: 949-759-4559

gina.cereda@wfadvisors.com

520 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1700 Newport Beach, CA 92660

Toll-free: 800-779-6955

Office: 949-759-4564

walt.j.hommerding@wfadvisors.com

home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/gina.cereda YEAR

• Over 26 years of experience

2012 – 2019 and 2022 – 2023

Five Star Wealth Manager

As a financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors, I offer a wide range of services, from helping you select individual investments to developing a retirement plan. My advisory practice begins by determining each client’s investment objectives, goals and time horizon, allowing me to customize an appropriate asset allocation plan. With access to a broad array of company resources — including research analysts and economic and market experts — I can help you make informed investment decisions based on your specific needs.

I nvestment and Insurance Products:

NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. [CAR-0223-02730].

FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGER AWARD WINNER

YEAR WINNER 12

Navigating the Uncertain World Of Retirement

In today’s media landscape, we are besieged by information overload. Walt’s role is to dissect and de ne what is speci cally relevant to the development of an investment plan targeted to your unique lifestyle and nancial needs. Walt’s experience, coupled with Wells Fargo Advisors’ vast resources, allows his team to help clients to build, manage, preserve and transition wealth. Walt Hommerding’s career has spanned 33 years. His background includes audit and tax consulting at PricewaterhouseCoopers and as a controller of a large real estate company. Wells Fargo Advisors is not a tax or legal advisor. Walt is a 2012 – 2023 Five Star Wealth Manager.

Investment and Insurance Products :

NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank a liate of Wells Fargo & Company. [CAR-0323-01977].

This award was issued on 05/01/23 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 07/25/22 through 02/10/23. Fee paid for use of marketing materials. SelfCounty-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 160 (6% of candidates) were named 2023 Five Star Wealth Managers. The following prior year statistics

Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers. The award is based on 10 objective criteria. Eligibility criteria – required: 1. Credentialed as a registered investment adviser (RIA) wealth manager has not; A. Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; B. Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total authority or complaints registered through FSP’s consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client’s experience; C. Individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; D. Filed for Evaluation criteria – considered: 6. One-year client retention rate; 7. Five-year client retention rate; 8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9. Number of client households served; 10. Education therefore may not manage their clients’ assets. The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five

2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 winner Tracy J. Riddle, Senior Vice President – Investments, Senior PIM Portfolio Manager, CA Lic. 0A67694, NMLS 997895

Wealth Managers

Veronica Marie Aaron ∙ LPL Financial

John Glenn Adams ∙ Centaurus Financial

David Justin Askew ∙ Mercer Advisors

Joseph Anthony Azzopardi ∙ Mariner Wealth Advisors

Paul E. Babaran ∙ Morgan Stanley

Guy Eugene Baker ∙ Wealth Teams Alliance

Anouchka Marie Balog ∙ Morgan Stanley

William Beeler ∙ Regal Wealth Group

Larry Alan Bennett ∙ Bennett Financial & Insurance Services

Letitia Steiner Berbaum ∙ The Zandbergen Group

Elizabeth Simon Bernay ∙ Morgan Stanley

Robert Scott Bluemel ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Jeremy Alan Blum ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Noah Sheehan Boatright ∙ Boatright Capital Management

Neddie James Bokosky ∙ Securian Financial Services

Susan Diane Bordeaux ∙ Morgan Stanley

Bryce Jacob Bordwell ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Tammi Lee Boyd ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Todd Andrew Brooks ∙ Wedbush Securities Inc.

Burton Blayne Brown ∙ Atomi Financial Group

Robert Laurence Brown ∙ Morgan Stanley

Gayle Nelson Bullock ∙ Morgan Stanley

James John Buri ∙ Morgan Stanley

Robert Edward Burns ∙ Thrivent Investment Management

Mark Irvin Burton ∙ Burton Financial & Insurance Services

Christopher Romolo Caira ∙ Advisor Resource Group

John R. Calmes ∙ Insight Financial Advisors

Rodney Jerald Chamberlin ∙ Chamberlin & Associates

Tony Tinka Chan ∙ Crossroads Planning

Monica Sashil Chandra ∙ MSC Wealth Management

Peter Gerard Christenson ∙ Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Robert John Conlisk ∙ MassMutual

Lynne Jayne Connolly ∙ Emerald Wealth Management

John Thomas Cooke ∙ Cooke Wealth Management

WEALTH MANAGERS

Juliette Anne Cooke ∙ Cooke Wealth Management

Arthur Young Cooper ∙ Cooper McManus

Raymond Brent Crandal ∙ Morgan Stanley

Roger Nelson Cregg ∙ Morgan Stanley

Kris Alberto De La Pena ∙ Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Mark Richard Delp ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network

David M. DeMars ∙ Lincoln Financial Advisors

Nicholas James Dolle ∙ Morgan Stanley

Derek Leon Draper ∙ Draper Wealth Management

Jeffrey Sloan Duncan ∙ Lincoln Financial Advisors

Brian Crane Elliott ∙ VALIC Financial Advisors

Charles Fernand Farrell ∙ Newport Investors

Curtis Steven Farrell ∙ Financial Management Network

Geoffrey Erik Fellows ∙ LPL Financial Fellows Wealth Management

Sandra Cheryl Field ∙ Asset Planning

Rhonda Jean Finby ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Marah Beth Fineberg-Kuck ∙ Fineberg Financial Management

Michael Henry Gabrielian ∙ Securian Financial Services

John Andrew Gaines ∙ LPL Financial

Eric John Gallinger ∙ Merrill Lynch

Bruce Mathew Galloway ∙ Morgan Stanley

John Harlan Gerken Jr. ∙ Centaurus Financial

Andrew Charles Gordon ∙ Centaurus Financial

Kate Gregory Walker ∙ Gregory Advisors

Armen John Guleserian ∙ LPL Financial

Jeffrey L. Halbreich ∙ Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Ryan Patrick Hawkins ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network

Dominica L. Henderson ∙ Securities America

Emily Tubola Hermeno ∙ Prosperity Road

Adam David Herzing ∙ Eagle Strategies

Paul Douglas Horn ∙ BFSG

Parvez I. Howlader ∙ Cetera Advisor Networks

Nikita Zhen Huang ∙ Morgan Stanley

David Michael Hutchison ∙ Triad Investment Managment

Kevin Todd Jack ∙ Mercer Advisors

Jermaine La Monte Jamison ∙ Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Katiana Jaclyn Jamm ∙ Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Mark Douglas Jillson ∙ LPL Financial

David Alan Joffe ∙ Long Island Financial Group

Greg Scott Johnstone ∙ KS Financial Advisors

Garrett Gunnar Jones ∙ Crossroads Planning

Walter Evan Kaminski ∙ Morgan Stanley

James Charles Kieckhafer ∙ KS Financial Advisors

Jonathan Fujiwara Kimmes ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Daniel Joseph Koblin ∙ Continuum Consulting Group

Gary Alan Kubesh ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

John Robert LaBriola ∙ Laguna Wealth Advisors

John Hadley Lentz ∙ Morgan Stanley

Titus Jeromino Lobo ∙ Morgan Stanley

Karen Lomas ∙ Principal Financial

Fariba Zehtabian Madison ∙ Western International Securities

Julie C. B. Mains ∙ Gold Coast Financial Group

Gary Raymond McCarver ∙ Select Portfolio Management

Richard Dennis Means ∙ Centaurus Financial

Amber Renee Mears ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Robert Gordon Meaux ∙ Thrivent Investment Management

Boulos Gouda Michael ∙ Stewardship Wealth Management Solutions

John Samuel Milia ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Jim Michael Moos ∙ Morgan Stanley

Mark Daniel Morgan ∙ UBS Financial Services

Erin Marie Nelsen ∙ Asset Planning

Michael Clayton Nelson ∙ Ambassador Wealth Management

Susan Leann Niedwick ∙ Cutler Investment Group

Kara P. Noone ∙ Morgan Stanley

Samuel Robert Osborne ∙ Money Concepts Capital

Avinash Kochikar Pai ∙ Provence Wealth Management Group

Mario Antonio Picarelli ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Curtis Lawrence Rach ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network

Paul Stephen Rand ∙ The Rand Group

Isaiah Alexander Real ∙ Laguna Wealth Advisors

Kenneth Adrian Rieger ∙ Morgan Stanley

Donovan Denny Ritter ∙ Spectrum Capital Investment Group

Daniel John Roberts ∙ Centaurus Financial

Bradley John Saunders ∙ California Wealth Transitions

Chad W. Schiel ∙ Schiel Wealth Management

Floyd Lawrence Schwartz ∙ Raymond James & Associates Inc.

Sandip Singh Sehmi ∙ OC Wealth Advisors

Martin Aaron Shapiro ∙ Martin Shapiro Financial Services

Rischi Paul Sharma ∙ Assembly Pointe Financial

Stephan John Shatynski ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Scot Alan Shier ∙ Quintessential Financial

Shotaro Adam Shiono ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Jason Bryan Shirk ∙ Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Jerry Richard Slusiewicz ∙ Pacific Financial Planners

Scott Smith ∙ Smith Wealth Partners

Tyler Ryan Smith ∙ Mercer Advisors

Ross Bradley Snyer ∙ One Oak Wealth Management

Carol Somoano ∙ Asset Planning

Jonathan Paul Stouffer ∙ Securian Financial Services

Bill Sullins ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Mark A. Taylor ∙ Winthrop Taylor Financial

Jevon Kelvin Thomas ∙ World Equity Group

Ryan August Max Tuverson ∙ Merrill Lynch

Garrick Philip Updegraph ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Financial Network

Kevin vanHaaster ∙ Wells Fargo Advisors

Kendall Bullock Wear ∙ Morgan Stanley

Louis Basil Windawi ∙ Windawi & Associates

Brian Woo ∙ Morgan Stanley

Landon Makoto Yoshida ∙ Apriem Advisors

James Richard Zivich ∙ LPL Financial

Certi ed Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certi cation marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certi cation requirements. The Chartered Financial Consultant® credential [ChFC®] is a nancial planning designation awarded by The American College.

completed questionnaire was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

Orange use this format: YEAR: # Considered, # Winners, % of candidates, Issued Date, Research Period.

or a registered investment adviser representative; 2. Actively licensed as a RIA or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the of five settled, pending, dismissed or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory personal bankruptcy within the past 11 years; E. Been terminated from a financial services firm within the past 11 years; F. Been convicted of a felony); 4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. and professional designations. FSP does not evaluate quality of services provided to clients. The award is not indicative of the wealth manager’s future performance. Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected wealth managers will be awarded this accomplishment by FSP in the future.

All award winners are listed in this publication.

TRICK FOR TREAT

Stacy Shubunka, behavior and training zookeeper at the Santa Ana Zoo and owner of OC Paws Dog Training, has worked with animals for nearly 20 years. by Dhanika

What has been your journey with animals?

I’ve worked with marine mammals at SeaWorld San Diego and Sea Life Park Hawaii. Later I began training dogs, cats, birds, pigs, rats, and raccoons for the Universal Studios Animal Actors show and for films at Birds and Animals Unlimited. After having such success with dogs, I decided I wanted to help pet owners learn to train their own dogs and started OC Paws Dog Training in 2013.

Do you have pets?

While working for the Universal Studios Animal Actors Show, I rescued a shepherdmix puppy that I named Nai‘a, which means

“dolphin” in Hawaiian. I trained Nai‘a for the live stage show at Universal Studios. She made some media appearances at a young age. When it was time for me to move on from the show, I adopted Nai‘a as my own. She’s still with me to this day, a retired star at the lovely age of 11.

How does training help animals?

I know that I make a difference in the lives of the animals I train and care for. Ashley is a 10-year-old ring-tailed lemur at the Santa Ana Zoo who was diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Ashley had no injection training history, and I needed to use a limited amount of food as reinforcement. I

Pineda

trained Ashley to come over to me, move to a separate location in her habitat, enter a training chute, and allow me to touch her through the fence line. Once she was comfortable with me touching her, I began using a (needleless) syringe, then added a blunted needle and easily moved onto daily insulin injections. This behavior was trained within four months using positive reinforcement.

N SPIR A TIO N ERI C AN E NG IN EERIN G

Graff is internationally recognized as an avant-garde manufacturer of trend-setting faucets. Their legacy is built on a perfect blend of European design heritage and innovative American engineering. They combine unique styling with flawless functionality. See their newest kitchen and bath designs at any of our 7 Southern California showrooms.