Orange Coast Magazine - July 2022 by The Lifestyle Magazines of SoCal

LOCAL ARTIST DAZZLES AT SHERMAN GARDENS

M SU S T F O AI T E AW A SL TS N LL VE FU E

T R E V O R N O A H P L AY S T H E O C FA I R

BEST OF /

J U LY 2022

JULY 2022 $5.95

U N D U

ANNU R

Model used for illustrative purposes.

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4 BEDROOM, 3 BATH APPROX 4,080 SF HOME | APPROX 5,090 SF LOT Located on a significantly secluded large lot of Ocean Blvd, with over 100 feet of water-view frontage, this four-bedroom plus office, beachside estate casts unobstructed, panoramic ocean, harbor, Catalina, peninsula and city views throughout. Set 70 feet above the bay – the home boasts the highest elevation yet closest proximity to the water. Offered at $20,500,000

2501 OCEAN BLVD | CORONA DEL MAR 2501ocean.com

CASEY LESHER 949.702.7211 caseylesher@gmail.com caseylesher.com

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COLDWELL BANKER REALTY | Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and

4 BEDROOM, 3 BATH | APPROX 4,080 SQ FT HOME APPROX 5,090 SQ FT LOT | OFFERED AT $20,500,000 Located on a significantly secluded large lot of Ocean Blvd, with over 100 feet of water-view frontage, this four-bedroom plus office, beachside estate casts unobstructed, panoramic ocean, harbor, Catalina, peninsula and city views throughout. Set 70 feet above the bay – the home boasts the highest elevation yet closest proximity to the water.

the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. (28146292)

400 Ashton, Laguna Beach

The brand that defines luxury. As an exclusive Orange County affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, First Team is distinguished as best in class. Together, we bring the most desired luxury homes to the world’s most discerning buyers. Christie’s International Real Estate commands recognition among high-net-worth buyers and sellers worldwide and is the noted authority on the marketing of high-value properties. Our finely-tuned suite of programs provides a world-class showcase for distinguished homes, and our clients benefit from ties to the world’s leading art business and its worldwide real estate network. Discover the advantages of partnering with our worldwide network at FirstTeam.com/Luxury. © First Team® Real Estate. All rights reserved.

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THE FUTURE IS HOPE COH - P-AD - Orange Coast 07-July 2022 - Future is Hope_Spread_FINAL-.indd All Pages

From the moment you connect with a City of Hope physician, you feel it. The focused dedication. The infinite compassion. The promising cancer research and treatments sought by people from around the world. And with the addition of our NCIdesignated comprehensive cancer and research center, a whole new level of science and compassion is arriving soon in Orange County. This is the most advanced cancer care in the country. This is Hope and it’s here to cure cancer. © 2022 City of Hope

Learn more at CityofHope.org/OC

5/26/22 4:26 PM

JULY 88

BEST!

From delicious dishes and must-try cocktails to painting parties and customizable lipstick, this year’s roundup features everything we’ve tried in the county that we can’t wait to share with you.

106

“I was really impressed with the amari we used for this cocktail. ... When we came across the Faccia Brutto centerbe, we grabbed as much of it as we could get.” —ANTHONY LEBORIN, CHEF DE SWIGS AT FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS, ABOUT THE SO GOOD AND TAST Y DRINK, PICTURED BELOW. FARMHOUSE OPENED A NEW EVENT SPACE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES L AST MONTH.

LITTLE BROKEN PIECES

Mosaic artist and Irvine resident Irina Charny dazzles with works on display through Sept. 21 at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. We spoke with Charny about her process and inspiration behind the unique works. BY ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN

112

A PERFECT MIX

Inga Tantisalidchai thrives on competition—the kind you find at national and international cocktail contests. When not competing, she holds several positions in the hospitality industry, among them head bartender at Olea restaurant in Newport Beach.

O N T HE COV ER

Photograph by Emily J. Davis

10 O RA NGE CO AST • July 2022

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F FA R M H O U S E AT R O G E R ’ S G A R D E N S

BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

BEST PRIVATE BANK IN THE U.S. FINANCIAL TIMES GROUP, 2021

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JULY 24

22 24

EDITOR’S LET TER PEOPLE & PL ACES A scenic pathway along Heisler Park in Laguna Beach ’HOODS New York-style pizza, Orange County beer, and other finds in Laguna Niguel PERFECT G E TAWAY Equestrian themes and parties dominate in Del Mar this month.

C U LT U R E P H I L E Cal State Fullerton alumna brings 1960s soul and pop to O.C.

O.C . E VENT S Pageant of the Masters, OC Fair, outdoor concerts, Vans US Open of Surfing, and more summer happenings this month

12 ORA NGE CO A ST • July 2022

ST YLE & HOME Original paintings by a Laguna Beach resident

AT H O M E W I T H . . . Lauryn Alvarez is a photographer turned painter.

M AIN COURSE Outpost Kitchen’s second location bustles at brunch.

HOT SHOP Ivy & Pine boutique in Costa Mesa celebrates its new space.

BREAKDOWN Vegan guava cheesecake at Gracias Madre

FINDS Hot-pink pieces will brighten your day.

FOOD TRENDS New restaurants that identify with a single type of alcohol

ON THE MARKET An oceanfront home in San Clemente with views of fireworks, plus a conversation with the executive director of Casa Romantica

FOOD & DRINK Blueberry pancakes from Outpost Kitchen in Costa Mesa

MY O.C . Surprising lessons on inheritance and upbringing

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DINING GUIDE Many of our minireviews, plus Fast Hot Pot at the District

136

PERSON OF INTEREST A biologist and prominent member of the O.C. birding community

WEB EXT R A S

Paul Cao, executive chef-owner of Burnt Crumbs in Irvine, joins Cathy Thomas is make souffle pancakes. orangecoast.com /cathythomas Best places in O.C. to watch the fireworks this Fourth of July orangecoast.com /fireworks2022 Join us for our Best Of party at Rancho Las Lomas on July 28. orangecoast.com /bestof2022

@ORANGECOASTMAG

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

DEL MAR PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DEL MAR THOROUGHBRED CLUB

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JULY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS IN THIS ISSUE

FACES of Orange County

64-65 Bentley & More LLP • The Face of Trial Lawyers 66-67 Ken South of Tower 68 Financial Advisors • The Face of Wealth Management 68-69 Kevin Madden of SMKFLWR • The Face of SoCal Lifestyle 70

AkermanMed OBGYN & Midwifery • The Face of Women’s Well-Being

John Stanaland of John Stanaland Group • The Face of Laguna Beach

California Closets • The Face of Beautiful Closets

Kimberly Chavalas Cripe of CHOC • The Face of Children’s Hospital of Orange County

Coastal Fertility Medical Center • The Face of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility

Matthew Fehling of BBB Pacific Southwest • The Face of Integrity

Daniel S. Yanni, M.D., FAANS • The Face of Spine Neurological Surgery

Elizabeth J. Pusey, M.D. of Women’s Medical Imaging • The Face of Medical Radiology

Steven A. Miyamoto, DDS • The Face of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Ghada Y. Afifi, M.D. • The Face of Plastic Surgery

John R. Schilling, APC • The Face of Family Law

CHOC Pediatric Otolaryngology Division • The Face of Children’s Ear, Nose, Throat-Head and Neck Surgery

Law Office of Jennifer R. Johns • The Face of Justice

Roomscapes • The Face of Beautiful Kitchens and Baths

Samer Habbas • The Face of Personal Injury Law

Javier Cuadra of Urbana Mexican Gastronomy + Mixology • The Face of Fine Mexican Cuisine

Brent Moelleken, M.D., FACS • The Face of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Clifton Albright of Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC • The Face of Labor & Employment

OC Scenes

14 Ora nge C o a st • July 2022

CA Wine Festival

117

OC Top Doctors Reception

When one place is everywhere you want to be. Nestled on 2,000 acres neighboring Park City, Utah, Red Ledges was designed for better living. We invite you to discover luxurious living spaces and exceptional architecture within a vibrant and engaging community. Mother nature created the natural beauty. We make it easy to create your custom home here.

Homes from $1.2M-$10M+ | On-Site Design Studio | Scan QR Code to View Available Properties Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. The California Department of Real Estate has not inspected, examined, qualified this offering. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. All recreational facilities are privately owned and operated as a club with mandatory membership fees. This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy in Ohio or in any other jurisdiction in which registration or any other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. © 2021 Red Ledges Land Development, Inc. ©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

EDITOR’S LETTER

ecently, I was visiting out-of-town family at an O.C. resort when a friendly man at the pool mentioned he’d spent the previous day at “the Laguna pier.” I didn’t correct him—he probably went to Balboa Pier. But it provided a good reminder as to how many tourists come to Orange County: more than 50 million of them in the best years. The bigger takeaway for me? We get to enjoy this all the time! July is our annual Best Of issue—a chance to highlight the joys of living here. We have an abundance of fun things to do, unique places to shop, and delectable food and drinks to devour. Take in the views at renovated coastal resorts such as Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and VEA Newport Beach, which opened in June. Join international shoppers at South Coast Plaza, which celebrates its 55th anniversary this year. Theater lovers will swoon at the shows our local arts venues are trotting out over the next year. Of course, there are miles of coastline and fantastic beaches, where elite athletes will compete later this month at the Vans US Open of Surfing. If your goal is to escape all those crowds for the summer, we have some suggestions for where to do that, too—all put together in our annual bonanza of the Best, starting on Page 88. One of my favorite places to escape is Sherman Library & Gardens, where the grounds are gorgeous and welcoming all year. In August, the venue provides the perfect excuse to dress to the nines or challenge your creative side with its annual garden party and hat contest. I’ve been honored to judge the contest in the past, and the entries are innovative, frivolous, and delightful. It’s a marvelous way to appreciate the outdoors in style. Speaking of outdoor parties, don’t miss the amazing scene and plentiful fare at our annual Best Of celebration July 28 at Rancho Las Lomas (orangecoast.com/bestof2022). See you there!

MS. AL AN GIBBONS

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

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

M Y F AV O R I T E T H I N G S I N T H I S I S S U E I’ve been holding tickets for Trevor Noah at the Pacific Amphitheatre for two years now. At last, he arrives! PA G E 30

16 ORA NGE C O AST • July 2022

Loving the hot-pink everything for this season—bold, summery, and fun.

I can’t wait to check out the vibe at Rum Social and the new location of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations.

PA G E 44

PA G E 56

Two Orange Coast editors have encountered Inga Tantisalidchai in other realms in O.C., proving what a small community our county really is. PA G E 112

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

Start here. Create a kitchen that’s uniquely yours. The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove showroom has everything you need in one place: Informative consultants, an inspiring chef, innovative designs, and interactive products.

SCHEDULE A SHOWROOM APPOINTMENT 657.269.5874 subzerosocal.com/costamesa OR SC AN HERE

655 Anton Boulevard | Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Hours: Monday–Friday 9AM to 5PM, Saturdays 10AM to 3PM

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ACCOUNT DIRECTORS Randy Bilsley, rbilsley@orangecoast.com Edward Estrada, eestrada@orangecoast.com Elysia Gamo, egamo@orangecoast.com Richard Lockhart, rlockhart@orangecoast.com Scott Mabry, smabry@orangecoast.com

D I G I TA L M E D I A E D I T O R Colette Nguyen DINING CRITIC Gretchen Kurz PHOTOGRAPHER Emily J. Davis

HEAD OF EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING Traci Takeda, ttakeda@orangecoast.com

EVENTS EDITOR Robin Jones

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EDITORIAL INTERNS Zoë Howes, Elena Malek

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Sheila Ramezani, sramezani@lamag.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Benjamin Epstein, Greg Nagel, Jillian Pretzel, Valerie Takahama, Cathy Thomas

S T R AT E G Y A N D PA R T N E R S H I P S D I R E C T O R Suzy Starling, sstarling@lamag.com

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Martha Napier, Kara Pyle

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18 ORA NGE C O AST • July 2022

WEST COAST Shana Wong, 808-386-0872, shanawong@me.com H AWA I I : D E S T I N AT I O N M A R K E T I N G Justin Nakaahiki, 808-739-2200 MIDWEST & TEXAS: CS MEDIA Cheryl Schuldt, 847-251-3483, fax: 847-589-8491 SOUTHEAST Whitney Dick, wdick@atlantamagazine.com

@orangecoastmag More info: orangecoast.com

GOOD TIMES FOR EVERYBODY

PEOPLE

PLACES

IN PL AIN SIGHT  T H E S C E N E Heisler Park in Laguna Beach  G E T T I N G T H E R E Located on Cliff Drive, the pathway follows the coast.  E X P L O R E R C R E D I T Lupita Zambrano @lupitazambranophotography  B E H I N D T H E S H O T “ I was scouting for a spot to shoot the sunset when those flowers along the pathway caught my eye,” Zambrano says. “ I thought it was a beautiful view with the pathway and the palm trees on the other side with the ocean in the background.” 33°32'37.1"N 117°47'24.5"W

July 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 21

PEOPLE

PLACES ’ H O O D S

TA K E M E O U T

Grab New York-style pizza and Orange County beer, among other finds, in this corner of LAGUNA NIGUEL. by Robin Jones

Ú G O O D TO KN OW

B RO O KLY N CIT Y PIZ Z E R I A & M A R KE T

O C LO C A L TA PRO OM

S A LT CR E E K WIN E CO.

KIDS RU LE S P O R T S

East Coast transplants swear by this new restaurant specializing in New York-style pizza. Made with hand-tossed dough, imported Italian tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella, the pies are topped with everything from roasted vegetables and balsamic reduction ($28) to garlic ricotta and pancetta ($30). Fresh cheese and pepperoni slices are always available, as are the fan-favorite garlic knots ($8). 30012 CROWN VALLEY

With more than 50 local craft beers on tap, this is one of the best places in the area to sample Orange County brews. Bartenders pour old favorites and new releases from the Bruery, Beachwood Brewing, Rad Beer Co., and others, and the kitchen sends out elevated bar food, including carnitas sliders ($12) and shrimp ceviche ($19). Accordion doors at the front of the dining room give the space an open, airy feel. 30100 TOWN

The intimate, cozy wine bar tucked into a wine shop has been a favorite of oenophiles for more than a decade. Curated wine-tasting flights change weekly; they typically include a flight of the week with a mix of reds and whites, along with selections of white, red, and sparkling varietals. Order a charcuterie and cheese plate or some mixed nuts with honey to snack on while you sip. 30100 TOWN

Memorabilia from every major sport—baseball, basketball, hockey, football, and soccer—lines the walls here. You’ll find thousands of certified signed balls, jerseys, framed photographs, bats, batting helmets, and gloves from current and former stars, including local favorites Mike Trout, Rod Carew, and Vladimir Guerrero. The collection also includes more than a million baseball cards. 30101 TOWN

CENTER DRIVE, 949-627-7652

CENTER DRIVE, 310-701-2132

PARKWAY, 949-363-7777

CENTER DRIVE, 949-481-5800

22 ORA NGE CO AST • July 2022

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F B R O O K LY N C I T Y P I Z Z E R I A & M A R K E T

Brooklyn City Pizzeria & Market was started by a family from Brooklyn, N.Y., which was an incorporated city before it was a borough.

BECAUSE SIGHT

SHARON STONE X LENSCRAFTERS

YO UR EYES FIRST Los Olivos Marketplace 949.585.9818

PEOPLE

PLACES

P E R F E C T

G E T A W A Y

DEL MAR

Equestrian themes and parties dominate the oceanside village this month. by Alan Gibbons

24 ORA NGE CO AST • July 2022

A B O V E T H E F R AY

To enjoy a lovely spot above the bustle, head to Beeside Balcony. The patio tables offer a chance to relax under umbrellas yet still feel the ocean breeze while overlooking the street. Dive into the Mediterranean menu and feel virtuous with a Beeyoutiful Bowl: quinoa, edamame, green kale, purple Brussels sprouts, chopped basil and mint, and more topped with lemon vinaigrette ($16). Or try the Faroe Islands salmon with broccolini puree, baby carrots, lemon beurre blanc, and thyme ($26).

MICHELIN MAGIC

For a serious foodie experience, head to San Diego’s first and only two-star Michelin restaurant, Addison. Chef William Bradley presents a nine-course tasting menu ($298) atop a bluff at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. If your group includes picky eaters, try the resort’s other restaurant, Amaya, which will make accommodations for children. The outdoor patio overlooks the nearby

ABOVE The racing season opens July 22 at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DEL MAR THOROUGHBRED CLUB

orse racing enthusiasts will overtake the classic seaside town toward the end of this month. Even if that’s not your scene, Del Mar offers a delightful respite from everyday life with a chance to stroll along Camino Del Mar at your own pace. Check out the public art, the darling library, gelato shops, plus many restaurants and boutiques. When it’s time to rest or bypass the crowds, a quick trip to the hills will yield resorts that you’ll never want to leave.

221 SAPPHIRE AVENUE Balboa Island, Newport Beach

JEFF WILLIAMS 949 413 2559 jwilliams@villarealestate.com jjwre.com DRE No.01198735

j jwre.com

PEOPLE

PLACES T I P

F R O M

L O C A L

“Monarch (Ocean Pub) has a great beach vibe. There’s a lot of cool stuff downtown and a local beach community.” —CAROLYN INGLIS, DEL MAR

LEFT Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa pays attention to every detail. RIGHT There’s plenty of space and serenity at Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

hills. Luxuriate over delicious fresh oysters with delightful sea bean chimichurri ($22) and black rice with prawns ($35). MAKE TIME STOP

A short drive into the hills will place you in another world at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Oldworld elegance sings from every corner of this 15-star property— Forbes Travel Guide awards five stars to the resort, spa, and restaurant. A grand entryway leads to the sprawling pink building with marble and gold accents throughout. Guestrooms ($764 and up) appointed with marble showers and soaking tubs invite rest with blackout curtains and an analog clock: Let your body clock decide the schedule. Every room has a terrace or balcony to take in a portion of the property’s 400 acres—which include a golf course, four pools, an equestrian center, and adjoining nature preserve. Play tennis or pickleball, or try one of the 24 fitness classes

M AR K YOU R C ALE NDAR Created by Icon Fair from the Noun Project

26 O RA NGE CO A ST • July 2022

each week. You’ll earn the chance to relax in the idyllic library. E X T R AVA G A N T O P T I O N

Highly acclaimed Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa lures guests with exquisite attention to detail and nonstop pampering—befitting its Relais & Chateaux award status and five stars from Forbes Travel Guide. Staff guides you to one of the spacious Spanish-Colonial style casitas ($1,800 and up) where the indoor fireplace is glowing and warm to welcome you. There’s generous outdoor lounging space, and enormous bathrooms feature soaking tubs and some steam showers. The walk-in closet is stocked with plenty of extras: umbrella, shoehorns, tote bag, flashlight, and the softest robes imaginable, all the better to enjoy fresh-squeezed orange juice delivered to your door every morning. Walk through the lush gardens, experience a treatment at the glorious spa, or grab a court for tennis or pickleball.

PONY UP TO THIS BAR

For the best place to see and be seen after the races, it’s hard to beat The After Pony Party at The Pony Room at Rancho Valencia, which sold out last summer. If relaxing in a quiet setting is more your speed, pick a weekday evening and try one of the eight margaritas on the spirits menu. A relaxed vibe surrounds guests as they sip the El Jefe, with añejo tequila, Grand Marnier, lime, and agave ($22). L I V E LY N E W C O M E R

Summer home of the San Diego Symphony, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park has been open just a year. In the heart of San Diego, it’s a short drive from Del Mar to enjoy the terraced outdoor seating. Everyone has a great view of performers, which in July include headliners such as Common, Megan Hilty, Michael Feinstein, and Joss Stone, plus concerts featuring the “Harry Potter” movie soundtracks.

July 22. Opening Day at Del Mar, which will be at full capacity for the first time since 2019, includes a hat contest and spectators dressed to impress in addition to the races and the parties. dmtc.com

P O O L C A B A N A S P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F R A N C H O VA L E N C I A R E S O R T & S PA ; P O O L S O V E R V I E W P H O T O G R A P H B Y D A N I E L K E L L E G H A N , C O U R T E S Y O F FA I R M O N T G R A N D D E L M A R

SERVICE INDUSTRY EMPLOYEE

South Coast Plaza 714.979.9139

PEOPLE

PLACES

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

MOTOWN NOW

Multitalented artist and Cal State Fullerton alumna brings 1960s soul and pop to Orange County with Soul3Sixty. byValerie Takahama

lacentia singer-actor-director-educator Brooke Aston performs Motown hits with Soul3Sixty’s knockout vocalists and musicians at Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton on July 21. A faculty member with The Young Americans singing group who began touring with the troupe at age 16, she’s also an in-demand director and producer of theater and cabaret shows at Wayward Artist in Santa Ana, Southgate Productions in Fullerton, and the Long Beach Playhouse. What’s a Soul3Sixty show like?

Ú We mix in a lot of Motown,

a lot of pop and soul from the ’60s. We do a Dusty Springfield song. We’re always going to hit “Dancing in the Street.” We’re always going to hit The Supremes, so you’ll get “Baby Love,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” One of my favorite tunes that I sing backup on is “The Tears of a Clown.” Everybody gets up and dances to this stuff. Is it nostalgia?

Ú It’s not just nostalgia. This is

one of the key moments in the American songbook. The 1960s, when Motown was established, everything changed. It became a moment. We got short skirts, we got birth control, we got Twiggy, and we got popular music that was enjoyed across the board. I don’t know how else to say it except white folks started listening to Black music. It’s part of the American musical heritage.

Is this the music you grew up with? Ú I remember being (younger 28 ORA NGE C O AST • July 2022

than) 6 and every weekend, my dad popped on records in the basement of our house in Pennsylvania. It was all these classic Motown tunes. My dad was a big fan of ’70s classic rock and the horn bands like Chicago. I got my musical education from my parents. My mom turned me on to musical theater, my dad turned me on to that real R&B. Did you know you were going to be a performer from childhood? Ú Absolutely. I always wanted to perform. My brother is 10 years older (than I am), and as soon as I saw him in the first musical he did, I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I was lucky enough to keep that dream going. When I was working at a dinner theater in Northern Michigan for an organization that I continue to be with as a faculty member, The Young Americans, there’s a video of me after a show. I’m 17, and I say that someday I want to balance my musical theater career with a family. It’s funny because my now-husband is sitting next to me as I say that.

What helped you develop your skills as a performer? Ú I would say that The Young Americans and Cal State Fullerton are the basis of my work ethic, my skill. If I have some star quality, both of those organizations built me into the performer and manager that I am today. I was very active in The Young Americans from ’93 to ’98. I toured around the United States. It instilled me with confidence. I was a very

shy kid; even though I wanted to do theater, I was very shy—as so many performers are. You know, introvert-extrovert. Give me 7,000 people, but please don’t give me seven strangers. (The Young Americans) instilled a sense of confidence in me and a sense that I can do things that I put my mind to. So when I moved on to Cal State Fullerton, I took this showmanship and was able to learn about the artistry and the craft of it. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

At the heart of OC. Where faith and academic excellence intersect.

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PLACES JULY 4 FOURTH OF JULY PARADE AND FIREWORKS

The Main Street parade returns for the first time in two years to kick off Huntington Beach’s annual daylong celebration. The fun continues with a festival on the Pier Plaza, with food, beverage, and retail vendors, and ends with the traditional fireworks show off the pier at 9 p.m. Parade on Main Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Yorktown Avenue; fireworks off Huntington Beach Pier; 714-536-5486, hb4thofjuly.org

JULY 5 THROUGH 17 “PRETT Y WOMAN”

Based on the 1990 movie, this Broadway show features music by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Adam Pascal—nominated for a Tony Award for originating the role of Roger in “Rent”—plays Edward Lewis, a businessman who unexpectedly finds himself falling in love with Vivian Ward, an escort he’s hired for the week to accompany him to business and social functions. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org JULY 6, 13, 20, AND 27 SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK

DON’T MISS IN JULY

Pageant of the Masters, OC Fair, and more by Robin Jones OPENS JULY 1

L AGUNA ART-A-FAIR

Established and emerging fine artists and artisans from around the world display traditional oil paintings, watercolors, sculptures, and charcoal drawings along with mixedmedia pieces, fiber art, ceramics, and jewelry. Festivalgoers can enjoy live music most weekend days, along with adult art workshops and various other events. 777 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-494-4514, art-a-fair.com

30 ORA NGE CO AST • July 2022

JULY 4 JULY 4 SPECTACUL AR: THE MUSIC OF QUEEN

Pacific Symphony launches its Summerfest 2022 series with a tribute to Queen. Windborne, musicians and vocalists who travel the world playing classic rock with orchestras, joins the symphony to perform versions of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Killer Queen,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” and more. A fireworks show caps the night. FivePoint Amphitheatre, 14800 Chinon, Irvine, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

OPENS JULY 7 PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS

This year’s edition of the “living pictures” show, with the theme “Wonderful World,” will take viewers to 17 countries. Using elaborate makeup, costumes, and sets, actors on stage will re-create paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, including master works by Swedish painter Carl Larsson and Italian artist Giovanni Tiepolo. Tickets include a summerlong pass to the adjacent Festival of Arts. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-4941145, foapom.com JULY 7 THROUGH 10 METAJAX CRYPTO JAZZ FESTIVAL

In its second year, this festival is expanding its reach by staging concerts at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Performers include Eddie Daniels with the Roger Kellaway Trio and Peter Erskine (July 7), Gordon Goodwin’s

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Families gather to picnic while listening to live music in the annual concert series at Brea’s City Hall Park. Performers include the Symphonic Winds of the Pacific, playing patriotic pops music (July 6); My Generation, a British Invasion rock band (July 13); Neon Nation, a 1980s Top 40 cover band (July 20); and vintage rock/R&B band the Rayford Brothers (July 27). Dogs are welcome. City Hall Park, 401 S. Brea Blvd., Brea, ci.brea .ca.us/1019/summer-concerts-in-the-park

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PLACES JULY 16 TREVOR NOAH

The Emmy Award-winning host of “The Daily Show” comes to the Pacific Amphitheatre with his newest show, “Back to Abnormal.” Noah, who regularly riffs on politics and current events, mixes social commentary with comedy in his stand-up shows, eight of which have been turned into comedy specials, including the critically acclaimed “Son of Patricia” on Netflix. Pacific Amphitheatre, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com

Big Phat Band (July 8), New York Voices performing “The Music of Brazil” (July 9), the Tony Guerrero Group with guest vocalist Tawanda (July 10), and Matt Mauser’s Big Band Experience performing “The Music of Sinatra and More” (July 10). Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-8544646, thebarclay.org OPENS JULY 8 NEW SWAN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

The annual summer tradition returns with performances of “Pericles, Prince of Tyre,” a

play about the unlikely reuniting of a family separated at sea; and “The Comedy of Errrorrs,” a play that takes on the humor in mistaken identity. The UC Irvine Claire Trevor School for the Arts constructs the outdoor theater for the festival every summer. New Swan Shakespeare Festival, Gateway Commons, Inner Ring Road, Irvine, 949-824-2787, newswanshakespeare.com JULY 8, 15, AND 22 SUMMER SOUNDS ON THE PL AZA

Free outdoor concerts bring an eclectic mix of performers to the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza. Singer-songwriter Alice Bag,

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lead singer and cofounder of L.A. punk band Bags, plays music from her solo albums July 8. On July 15, the 10-piece tropi-funk band Jungle Fire brings its blend of deep funk, West African dance rhythms, and Afro-Caribbean music to the stage. Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles, the first mariachi band made up of LGBTQ musicians, performs July 22. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org JULY 15 “AMERICAN IDIOT”

Green Day lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong created this musical from the songs on the Grammy Award-winning, multiplatinum concept album. The story follows three young men—Johnny, Will, and Tunny—trying to find their path in life. The show received a Tony Award nomination for Best Musical in 2010. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com OPENS JULY 15 OC FAIR

Fried food, newborn piglets, and carnival attractions bring crowds to the annual fair, a four-week Orange County summer tradition. Live music and entertainment, the Centennial Farm, art and photography exhibits, and contests round out the attractions. OC Fair &Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, ocfair.com

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OPENS JULY 17 111TH ANNUAL GOLD MEDAL EXHIBITION

One of the oldest art shows in the state, this exhibit curated by the California Art Club was fashioned after 19th-century European art salons, which encouraged artists to submit their best work, regardless of the subject. A jury of experts and artists selected more than 200 paintings and sculptures from well-known and up-and-coming artists; the museum will host several programs and events featuring the exhibiting artists. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714-567-3600, bowers.org JULY 21 BROOKE ASTON AND SOUL3SIXT Y

Soul3Sixty, an eight-piece Motown band with three female vocalists, teams with Cal State Fullerton graduate Brooke Aston for a night of soul classics by icons such as the Chiffons, the Crystals, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder, performed in the Muckenthaler’s outdoor amphitheater. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org Read more about Aston on Page 28 OPENS JULY 21

feature works by Price, a contemporary sculptor who lives in Orange County. His monumental steel creations, some of which are as tall as 35 feet and weigh 7.5 tons, are sought by collectors in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org THROUGH JULY 24 “AHORA”

Curated by Tlaloc Studios’ Ozzie Juarez and Thinkspace Projects’ Andrew Hosner, the exhibit spotlights 44 international contemporary artists working in several mediums. Each piece was selected for its take on the spirit and mood of the current day. Muzeo, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714-956-8936, muzeo.org JULY 24 INL AND EMPIRE FESTIVAL

Reggae, soul, R&B, and Polynesian musicians join together, promising to spread island vibes across the OC Fair grounds. Sammy J, Fiji, Anuhea, Eli-Mac, and Analea Brown, along with other artists to be announced, are scheduled to perform. Pacific Amphitheatre, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com JULY 27

“UNDER PRESSURE: SELECTED WORKS FROM BRET PRICE”

COUNTING CROWS

The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the PepsiCo sculpture gardens in New York

Nearly 20 years ago, the Counting Crows released their first album, “August and

Everything After,” which catapulted the band into stardom with singles such as “Mr. Jones,” “Round Here,” and “Rain King.” The group has released six more albums, toured the world, and earned Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Grammy nominations for the song “Accidently in Love,” from the movie “Shrek 2.” Pacific Amphitheatre, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com JULY 28 DARDEN

The five-piece band made up of three sisters and their two brothers is an O.C. favorite; the siblings have performed everywhere from the OC Fair to the House of Blues in Anaheim and Angel Stadium. They grew up in a musical family and count the Eagles, Pink Floyd, the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Fleetwood Mac as influences. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org OPENS JULY 30 VANS U.S. OPEN OF SURFING

More than 300 world-class surfers, skateboarders, and BMX riders converge on Huntington Beach for one of the most prestigious prizes on the World Surf League tour. In between the action, fans can check out art exhibits and product demos from top action sports brands. Huntington City Beach, vansusopenofsurfing.com

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C R E AT I V E C A N VA S S I N G THE FIND Original paintings by Laguna Beach resident Lauryn Alvarez GOOD TO KNOW You can find murals by Alvarez at places such as May Martin, a boutique that’s included in our BEST roundup starting on page 88. TURN THE PAGE to learn more about Alvarez.

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

July 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 37

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The Laguna Beach artist collaborates with local brands. by Chelsea Raineri

auryn Alvarez had been a photographer for years before the pandemic. When her subjects were no longer available, she turned to painting. “I just wanted a creative outlet that I could rely on myself,” Alvarez says. “Around that time, I was in a big growing stage and finding myself—you know how you do in your early 20s.” After sketching various shapes, she came up with the style she’s known for today.

What drew you to painting?  I grew up drawing as a kid, and I always enjoyed it, but personally I never thought I was that great. I just started sketching a lot and experimenting with watercolors, gouache paint, and colored pencil. I was inspired by a lot of Japanese-style art. I didn’t take it too seriously. Then one day, the creative director for Thalia Surf saw a design (on Instagram) and wanted to put it on a T-shirt. We did a couple of T-shirts, and I sold about eight original paintings in the shop. The day (the paintings) went live, they sold out. I was shocked because that was the first time I had sold big original paintings, and I was so nervous leading up to it. (Since then) I’ve done collaborations with Dark Seas, Seager, May Martin, and more. What does your process look like?  I’ll either mock it up digitally on my iPad or (use) a sketchbook. Then I’ll come up with some color combinations on my iPad to finalize the idea. When I go to the canvas, sometimes I’ll work a little more candidly, and I won’t stick to the original plan that I had. But it’s nice for me to have a reference instead of going into the canvas blindly. How did you come up with the sun paintings?  That came out of nowhere. When I was drawing a lot, I would intuitively sketch out anything that came to my mind, and I would just draw a different shape and rework it. Looking back at my sketchbook, there’s a lot of trial and error and redrawing the same thing five or 10

38 ORA NGE C O AST • July 2022

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

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times because I liked part of this shape, so I’d include that in the next iteration of the design. I have the original sun design that I did, which is crazy because that propelled me and is kind of my signature piece now, which is so cool.

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What advice do you have for people who want to start painting? Ú I think it’s so important to love what you’re doing. As long as you are doing something authentic and true to yourself and you’re having fun doing it, inevitably something is going to come from that. People are going to relate to it, and they’re going to tell that there’s truth behind your work. Believe in yourself and push through the hardest points of self-doubt or imposter syndrome— it’s OK to feel those things, just know it’s not true. There’s room for everyone to be a creative and show their work. laurynalvarez.com

40 O RA NGE CO AST • July 2022

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

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IVY & PINE

The Costa Mesa boutique celebrates its three-year anniversary this month. by Chelsea Raineri

anielle Beck started her online women’s clothing and accessories brand Ivy & Pine in 2019. The next year, she rented a space at Huntington Beach’s Optima Salon Suites where she held shopping appointments for customers. Beck opened her first boutique in Costa Mesa in 2021, and this year she moved to a more prominent space down the street. “I wanted the concept to feel as if you went to a friend’s house who has really great style and you got to shop in their closet,” Beck says. “And finding really great clothes that make you feel like a badass.” Prior to the storefront being home to “cute clothes for badass babes”—the boutique’s motto— it was part of the clock shop next door. Now its walls are filled with floral dresses, band T-shirts, candles, gold necklaces, purses, and more. “We’re complicated, amazing women, and I want for you to be able to come in here and create your own (style) and show off your personality,” Beck says. Customers can also shop O.C. brands such as Luna Reece Ceramics, Dex & Bodie, and Local by Car. Follow Ivy & Pine’s second, private Instagram @shopivyandpinevip for a peak at new products and exclusive deals. Shop on Saturdays for a complimentary glass of rosé or Champagne.

440 E. 17th St. Costa Mesa 562-234-2918 shopivyandpine.com

SUMMER SLIDES Lana sandals, $48

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T O P-K N O T C H

Lenny Rancher hat, $74

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Blake minidress, $48 photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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Brighten your day with this striking color. by Chelsea Raineri

Isabel Marant sporty Tyron logo baseball cap, $180, Nordstrom, Fashion Island, 949-610-0700

Pink blazer, $2,595; orange tank, $725; pink trousers, $1,025; white clutch; $1,550, platform sandals, $1,125, Versace, South Coast Plaza, 714-380-3237

44 ORA NGE CO AST • July 2022

LV Volt Upside Down Play bracelet, $3,040, Louis Vuitton, South Coast Plaza, 714-850-9273

Honorine Elodie cotton maxi dress, $338, Intermix, South Coast Plaza, 714-754-7895

Fabric scrunchie, $380, Miu Miu, South Coast Plaza, 714-617-6927

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INDEPENDENCE DAY $9.8 million San Clemente

Amy Behrens is the executive director at Casa Romantica. She shares what the venue has in store this month. WISDOM FROM

an arts venue director

TELL US ABOUT INDEPENDENCE DAY AT CASA ROMANTICA.

Everyone who has an annual membership at Casa Romantica is invited to purchase tickets for the event. This is the only place in town with complimentary valet parking on the Fourth of July. We have professionally catered barbecue from Sundried Tomato Catering and Events. There is an ice cream sundae bar, live music with folk and bluegrass, and to end the

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evening, everyone has a front-row view of the fireworks from Casa Romantica’s ocean terrace. WHAT’S NEW THIS YEAR?

This year, there is a really fantastic art installation from a duo called Chiaozza. They designed the title installation at Coachella in 2017. There is an exhibition inspired by Casa Romantica’s gardens that will be indoors in our art gallery and outdoors throughout our 2.5 acres of gardens.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM JULY 4TH AT CASA ROMANTICA?

In 2021, I saw a family that had just reconnected—they hadn’t seen each other for more than a year because of COVID-19. Seeing them with their barbecue in hand and laughing and just enjoying that special time together is what we’re all about.

P R O P E R T Y P H O T O G R A P H B Y M O D E R N TA K E M E D I A ; H E A D S H O T B Y A D R I A N J O N P H O T O G R A P H Y

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Rancho Las Lomas is Southern California's most spectacular private event venue. Hidden away in the foothills of Orange County, the charming 32-acre private estate features majestic gardens where the life's specials moments can be celebrated. For more information, visit RanchoLasLomas.com or email info@rancholaslomas.com.

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B LU E B E R RY PA N C A K E S THE DISH Blueberry-infused pancakes topped with house raspberry coulis, lemon curd, organic blueberries, crushed pistachio, whipped ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and garden mint THE DETAILS A three-flour gluten-free mix is used to create a light, fluffy pancake. THE PRICE $15 THE PL ACE Outpost Kitchen TURN THE PAGE for our review.

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

July 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 49

50 ORA NGE CO A ST • July 2022

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OUTPOST KITCHEN

Offerings at the second location keep to same fresh, delicious standards. by Gretchen Kurz

hen jaunty indie Outpost Kitchen expanded to its second location—a sun-splashed spot on Bristol Street—the neighborhood was bustling. Performing arts stages had full schedules, South Coast Plaza stores were logging record sales, and surrounding office towers were full of securely employed workers. That all came to a screeching halt within a week in March 2020, and founder Jay Lewis saw his thriving target market vanish while the paint was still wet on the parking lot lines. Kicking back over jazzy cocktails on the patio for dinner in May, I realized the venue’s paused grand opening is actually a recovery now into its third year. Lewis wowed Westside Costa Mesa in 2015 when locals fell hard for the vibrant chow inspired by his Gold Coast surf town roots. Expanding on five years of success made perfect sense. Until it didn’t. Surviving the pandemic required both locations take careful steps to reopen with breakfast fare. Now the glossy new site serves breakfast, lunch, and brunch. Here is where Lewis and his longtime executive chef David Osborn have the infrastructure to elevate offerings—think lunch burgers and cocktails. The fried egg Brekky Sandwich I’ve loved for years is even better when joined by a Howling Wolf bone broth bloody mary. The everpopular blueberry pancakes, feather light and gluten free, call for a sparkling pear kombucha with coconut bitters. Gunwhale Bait Ball IPA pairs nicely with the hearty steak and eggs skillet with avocado. Excellent seedy country

bread toast rides shotgun—the same bread reappears in avocado toast with feta and sassy peppadew relish. Lunch choices are mostly variations on a sandwich, such as wraps, tacos, and a burger. Lamb braised 48 hours and sliced into tender slabs is the heart of The Kingswood, a satisfying ciabatta stack with harissa pesto, goat cheese, and arugula. The chicken pesto sandwich is a yawn compared to the sultry Tantra Wrap—plump with curried grilled white meat, cashews, dates, red onion, and umami mayo. Captains Ahi Wrap is a winner as well, dressed with lemon, dill, and greens that let the fresh tuna shine. Date Mate salad is an Outpost stalwart because the magical mix of medjool dates, chicken breast, goat cheese, pecans, and baby kale has no equal in these parts. “In constant search for the world’s best” is the credo behind Lewis’ insistence on foods

3420 Bristol St. Costa Mesa 714-852-3044 5 BEST DISHES Blueberry pancakes The Kingswood Date Mate salad Jay burger Tropical blue smoothie PRICE RANGE Breakfast, lunch, and brunch: $9 to $30 FYI Corkage is $25.

LEFT (Clockwise from top) Steak and eggs skillet, deviled eggs, and Aussie scramble RIGHT Outpost Kitchen's newest location is across the street from South Coast Plaza. photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

July 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 51

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DRINK that are local, organic, and sustainable. And that’s just the start for a scratch kitchen that goes the extra mile by making every little thing in-house: chutneys, jams, pickled vegetables, syrups, infusions, and cold-pressed juices. There’s no freezer here: Everything is fresh, and Lewis reports that deliveries occur twice daily. Creative smoothies and juice blends cater to every whim and fancy. If Looks Could Kale wins the eye-roll award for corniest name. But cheeky, lighthearted notes convey the Aussie charm of this breezy operation. Plates are often pink. A printed drink napkin has a lip print and “Call Me” scribbled above the logo. A pint glass declares “Nectar of the gods.” Dinner service was still finding its feet on multiple May visits. The menu was pared down from daylight offerings, though beverage options remain copious. Seasonal cocktails are superb, so consider starting there or with a draft beer from

Jay burger

a list that’s admirably 100 percent local. Clearly, dinner is new and the least realized meal here. It’s likely why dinner service was paused just hours before this review went to press. This venue is so promising as an evening destination—especially for pre-show dining now that adjacent stages have so

many curtain calls ahead. Pandemic recovery is wobbly on many fronts and will progress at a pace unknown. As the South Coast Metro zone reawakens to its next normal, it’s heartening to see plucky Outpost Kitchen has prevailed against formidable odds. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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GUAVA CHEESECAKE

Executive chef Justin Haefler isn’t vegan himself, but he loves the challenge of creating tasty vegan dishes at Gracias Madre in Newport Beach. “I feel like I’m constantly learning and growing, and it’s rekindled my love and passion for food.” by Alan Gibbons

Filling: “One of the most commonly used ingredients in the vegan world as a replacement for cheese is cashews,” Haefler says. “We soak them to get a softer texture. We blend them with coconut milk, guava puree, agave for sweetness, and nutritional yeast to give it that cheesy flavor. Add coconut oil and beet juice for color and flavor. Soy lecithin powder helps it set, which takes roughly three to four hours.”

“We make the crust from date paste, cacao nibs, cacao powder, and vanilla. That goes into the food processor to break down the cacao nibs. Then you fold in vanilla and salt.”

GRACIAS MADRE DESSERTS MAKE OUR BEST LIST! PAGE 88

“We finish it off with a little guava puree and beautiful pansy flowers.”

“The house-made granola is the finishing touch. If you take away the granola, which has grains, it becomes gluten free. We try to make as many dishes gluten free and nut free as possible.”

1617 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach

MADE IN ORANGE COUNTY

Laguna Beach

Lavinia Homoreanu started BUNI’S BAKERY in July 2020 after she gave a friend personalized sugar cookies early in the pandemic. All cookies are made from scratch in Laguna Beach and have individualized letters to create custom messages. Perfect for any occasion, they are available at bunisbakery.com or at Mercado Laguna in Laguna Beach ($2.90 each, $36 for 18).

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

AWARD WINNING PERUVIAN CUISINE InkaMamas.com Aliso Viejo Foothill Ranch San Clemente Santa Ana

WHOLESOME COOKING NATURAL INGREDIENTS DELICIOUS FLAVORS

MamonRestaurants.com 26676 Portola Pkwy., Suite D Foothill Ranch, CA 92610 949–305–8552

24HOUR MARINATED CHICKEN + PERUVIAN INSPIRED / SEASONAL DISHES EatBrasa.com 3940 S. Bristol, #111 Santa Ana, CA 92704 657–266–0603

DRINK F O O D

T R E N D S

KINDRED SPIRITS

New restaurants that identify with a single type of alcohol by Benjamin Epstein

RUM SOCIAL and its upstairs Treehouse Bar are themed to author-iconoclast Ernest Hemingway, right down to the window display of highend luggage and clothing for sale. Jered Adams (formerly of Eno Steakhouse) created the tropically inspired menu and cocktails. Start with the R.S. Cocktail—proprietary reserve rum, orgeat, banana, orange bitters, and coconut— or a flight of flavored rums from San Diego’s Malahat Spirits. Several dishes use rum, notably plantanos with ginger-rum glaze and an Alaskan salmon entree with farro, macadamia, plantains, and dark rum butter sauce. 448 S. COAST HIGHWAY, LAGUNA BEACH, 949-549-4014

Formerly Social HB, SOCIAL COCINA Y TEQUIL A suggests a sun-kissed sojourn with macramé, rattan, and Tuluminspired playlists. Dishes reflect the ones that chef Jackie Salazar learned from her grandmother in Mexico: The Fruit Stand (a fruit salad of sorts); duck chalupas; cochinita pibil; and grilled U10 shrimp with chorizo and sweet corn puree. Grayson Diercksmeier’s cocktails include See … Oaxaca Was—with fennel-infused tequila, kiwi, lime cordial, and muddled shiso—and Lil Beach with coconut-infused mezcal and cardamom bitters, presented in a sandbox with a tiny beach chair and seashells. 21214 BEACH BLVD., HUNTINGTON BEACH, 714-374-7715

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“Whiskey me away!” says a neon sign at BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS . Whiskey is Bosscat’s heart and soul; partner-designer Leslie Nguyen describes the Whiskey Room, with its bottles in bird cages, as her heart and soul. Two hundred bottlings represent eight states and six countries— check out that Taiwanese Scotch! A whiskey flight or Kentucky Orange Blossom cocktail segues seamlessly to the Pig Candy starter with rye-whiskey caramel, sesame, and kimchi, or the Carolina barbecue salmon with seasonal succotash. The Newport Beach location is moving to Irvine. 118 W. CHAPMAN AVE., ORANGE, 714-716-1599

ISL A CUBAN-L ATIN KITCHEN AND RUM BAR

offers a convivial slice of old Havana with many chandeliers and dark-wood ceilings. The “Latin” in the name translates to dishes of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Complimentary plantains and an intense garlic cream sauce begin the meal; half a dozen versions of the green-plantain dish mofongo include one starring oxtail; the crispy yucca side satisfies, too. Rum highlights include the Don Pancho eight-year mojito, a cigar-smoked rumand-bourbon Dominican Old-Fashioned, and an aromatic flight of aged Brugals. 30 CENTERPOINTE DRIVE, LA PALMA, 714-735-8597

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MY O.C.

Stranger Danger Surprising lessons on inheritance and upbringing by Jillian Pretzel

friend from college recently reached out and wanted to get together. “Can’t wait to finally meet your baby,” she said over text, lots of heart emojis in tow. I hadn’t seen my old roommate in years, so of course I couldn’t wait to catch up and introduce her to my 25-pound pride and joy, Elle. But when my friend finally arrived at my home in Tustin, my 1-year-old took

one look at the smiling visitor in the doorway ... and screamed. I assured my former classmate that she didn’t do anything wrong, that Elle was usually pretty nervous around new people. Still, I wasn’t surprised when our meetup was cut short, my toddler fussing and howling until the friend left early. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time this had happened, and it wouldn’t be the last. The week before, my nervous toddler cried when a neighbor came in to drop off mail. She had a similar reaction when I took her to visit my kind, 80-yearold pseudo-grandmother. Every time Elle met a new person or saw a less familiar relative, she wailed and hid her face in my shoulder, inconsolable until we were alone again. Usually, I tried to downplay her reactions, fumbling over some excuse as I whisked her to the privacy of a back bedroom. But each dramatic greeting pained me. I hated hearing my daughter’s panicked cries. Plus, I felt guilty when friends got that sad, what-did-I-do? look. Our pediatrician shrugged off my complaints, saying “stranger danger” was common for children this age. But I worried. Elle’s reactions were bigger than those of other toddlers I’d known. I’d seen my niece and nephew act shy around new adults, hiding behind their mom’s leg, but they always warmed up within a few minutes. I started to worry whether there was something more to Elle’s nerves.

I’V E A LWAY S H A D S O M E social anxiety of my own. While others look forward to outings, I usually prefer illustration by K A R A P Y L E

July 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 59

MY O.C. staying in. People strike up conversations with strangers in line at the grocery store, while I often need to psych myself up just to talk to colleagues at work. The more Elle cried in social situations, the more I worried she had inherited my anxiety. At first, I wanted to accommodate her nervousness since I knew how difficult social interactions were for me. I couldn’t imagine how it was for my tiny, wispy-haired baby. At the same time, I didn’t think it was wise to overindulge her fears. For one thing: “Never see or talk to anyone” isn’t a sustainable family rule. Plus, I didn’t want Elle to miss out on fun, friends, and important developmental milestones. I hoped the doctor was right, that this was just a phase she’d grow out of. In the meantime, I was tired of seeing Elle distraught. I stopped inviting friends over, skipped invitations to see family, and even avoided going to restaurants. Not surprisingly, Elle seemed relieved. Maybe I was, too.

PERHAPS MY ANXIET Y WON’T EVER GO AWAY COMPLETELY, BUT HOPEFULLY I CAN SET A GOOD EX AMPLE FOR MY DAUGHTER. But after a couple of weeks, I got an invitation to a friend’s birthday we couldn’t miss, so I RSVP’d and crossed my fingers that Elle wouldn’t mind a casual get-together. When we got to the friend’s house in Irvine, Elle cried at the sight of the intimate, six-person gathering. My friends made silly faces and offered her cupcakes to cheer her up, but it was no use. I carried my terrified tot out the front door, heading to a nearby park to calm down. As soon as we left the house, Elle relaxed.

At the park, I sat her down in a swing, gave it a push, and looked up at the clouds, wondering what the next few months, and even years, would be like. Maybe I didn’t mind the idea of staying home all the time, but I didn’t want my daughter to grow up with social anxiety, like I had. I didn’t want her to avoid raising her hand in class. I didn’t want her to miss out on friendships, as I’m certain I did, because she’s too nervous to start a conversation. A few minutes later, a large group of kids and parents walked across the street to the park. A herd of little boys descended on the playground, climbing up the jungle gym while the parents talked loudly in a circle. Our quiet playground turned into a bustling party venue in a matter of minutes. The sudden noise and crowd made me uneasy, so I pulled Elle out of the swing and rushed away. As we hurried back to the house, I looked down at Elle, who was clinging

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Stay up to date with The Style E-Newsletter and The Ultimate Guide to South Coast Metro available at SouthCoastMetro.com

60 ORA NGE C O AST • July 2022

MY O.C. to me, her tiny fist clutching my shirt. I tried to comfort her, stroking her back, but noticed my own palms sweating. That’s when I put it all together: Maybe my toddler wasn’t nervous because she had inherited my anxiety genes; maybe she was simply mimicking the way I acted around strangers. Sure, I was always happy to see family and friends, but Elle didn’t know the difference between a longtime friend and a stranger. To her, a new person was just a new person. I told my husband that I felt terrible for causing our toddler so much stress.

A F E W D AY S L A T E R , I T O O K Elle to the park near our house. It’s a small play area for our tiny residential community, so we rarely see other kids. But this time, another mom and her little boy were playing. At first, my daughter and I kept to ourselves, going up and down the slide, but eventually, Elle and the boy seemed to notice each other. The boy offered my toddler a pine cone; they sat in the sand, side by side, and played. Taking our kids’ lead, the other mom and I sat on the ground and chatted. Usually, I would have felt awkward trying to make conversation with a stranger, but somewhere between my toddler’s smile and my own excitement to compare notes on diaper brands, I guess I forgot myself for a while. Sitting in the sand that afternoon, I was so proud of Elle for being brave. And I like to think she was a little proud of me, too. Perhaps my anxiety won’t ever go away completely, but hopefully I can set a good example for my daughter. For now, we’re both just trying to be a little less afraid. We’re taking baby steps. After a few minutes of playing, Elle stood up, apparently more interested in the swings than her new friend, and I followed her to the other end of the playground. We stomped through the sand, and I lifted her into the swing, playing on our own again, for at least a little while longer.

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July 2022 • OR A NGE C OAST 61

WE HELP YOUR BUSINESS GROW The Digital Studio offers a full-service suite of digital advertising services designed to move our clients to the next level of success. Opportunities include: • • • • • • • • •

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-2022-

THE FACES OF ORANGE COUNTY The Face of Trial Lawyers BENTLEY & MORE LLP

The Face of Women’s Well-Being AkermanMed OBGYN & Midwifery

The Face of Children’s Hospital of Orange County KIMBERLY CHAVALAS CRIPE

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF ORANGE COUNTY

The Face of Spine Neurological Surgery DANIEL S. YANNI, MD, FAANS

DISC COMFORT, INC.

The Face of Plastic Surgery GHADA AFIFI, MD, FACS HAHNS KIM, MD, FACS

AfifiMD, PlasticSurgeryClinic.com

The Face of Wealth Management KEN SOUTH, FOUNDER AND CEO

TOWER 68 FINANCIAL ADVISORS

The Face of Laguna Beach JOHN STANALAND JOHN STANALAND GROUP

The Face of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility

LAW OFFICE OF JENNIFER R. JOHNSON

SMKFLWR

The Face of Beautiful Closets CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

The Face of Integrity MATTHEW FEHLING BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU PACIFIC SOUTHWEST

The Face of Medical Radiology

The Face of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

ELIZABETH J. PUSEY, MD

STEVEN A. MIYAMOTO, DDS

The Face of Family Law

The Face of Children’s Ear, Nose, ThroatHead and Neck Surgery

COASTAL FERTILITY MEDICAL CENTER

WOMEN’S MEDICAL IMAGING

JOHN R SCHILLING, APC JOHN R SCHILLING FAMILY LAW

The Face of Beautiful Kitchens and Baths ROOMSCAPES INC.

The Face of Fine Mexican Cuisine

The Face of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

JAVIER CUADRA

BRENT MOELLEKEN, MD, FACS

URBANA MEXICAN GASTRONOMY + MIXOLOGY

KEVIN MADDEN, CEO

LAWRENCE B. WERLIN, MD, FACOG

The Face of Justice JENNIFER R. JOHNSON

The Face of SoCal Lifestyle

BRENT MOELLEKEN, MD

FULLERTON ORAL SURGERY

OTOLARYNGOLOGY DIVISION OF CHOC CHILDREN’S SPECIALISTS

The Face of Personal Injury Law SAMER HABBAS

THE LAW OFFICES OF SAMER HABBAS

The Face of Labor & Employment CLIFTON ALBRIGHT ALBRIGHT, YEE & SCHMIT, APC

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of TRIAL LAWYERS

BENTLEY & MORE LLP Southern California personal injury attorneys Greg Bentley and Keith More have extensive experience handling complex litigation in a wide range of practice areas including product liability, workers compensation, car accidents, and serious injury. With the resources and experience to handle even the most complex civil actions and injury claims, the firm is comprised of an experienced trial team with personal injury, insurance law, and workers’ compensation expertise. “We specialize in 64 Ora nge C oast • July 2022

difficult ‘crossover’ cases that touch multiple practice areas, including assisting injured workers get the care they need as well as litigating against the third party that caused the harm,” say the attorneys. From complex personal injury, governmental entity liability to insurance bad faith cases, Bentley & More has earned a reputation for getting exceptional outcomes for their clients. No stranger to accolades, Greg Bentley and Keith More are recognized as Super Lawyers top

50 in OC and Top 100 in Southern California. Recently, More was named the 2022 Lawyer of the Year for Workers’ Compensation Law – Claimants in Orange County. Of course, the firm’s success stories speak for themselves: While working on a multistory commercial building, one client tripped over company supplies and fell 25 feet, resulting in quadriplegia and permanent disability. The firm achieved an award for $44.1M

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From left: Sam Hibbs, Steven Schuetze, Farnaz Salessi, Dane Gilliam, Greg Bentley, Keith More, Clare Lucich, Jaimi Groothuis, Nico Mamone, Braydon Bentley

in damages. In another case, a client was awarded $7.45M for injuries sustained when a company’s steel beam fell, striking his head and back. In yet another case, the firm secured a $30M catastrophic injury award for a client who was struck in the face by a truck driveshaft that sheared off and

careened through her windshield. These, and so many more client stories exemplify the dedication and tenacity of Bentley & More, attorneys who steadfastly refuse to quit until justice is served. Known as passionate advocates, Bentley & More are described by clients as “aggressive

and confident, yet deeply compassionate.” A secret to their success? “We work closely with our clients to deeply understand their lives and needs – we tell their story,” says Bentley. “We truly are helping people at their worst moments and creating a better life for them,” adds More.

4931 Birch Street, Newport Beach | bentleymore.com | P 949.870.3800 | F 714.835.5548

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610 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1520, Newport Beach | Ken South’s Direct Line: 949.945-6925

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of WEALTH MANAGEMENT

KEN SOUTH FOUNDER AND CEO

TOWER 68 FINANCIAL ADVISORS As a young adult, Ken South spent countless hours watching over beachgoers from his perch in lifeguard Tower 68. The Newport Beach native went on to build a decadeslong career in financial services before founding his own independent firm, Tower 68 Financial Advisors – a name inspired by the care, attention, and watchfulness skills he learned from his first job on the beach, and which he now uses to oversee market conditions and manage more than $430M in client investments. “After being in this business for almost four decades and living through numerous market cycles, it has become crystal clear to me that investors want answers to various questions. These can range from how accounts should be titled, how to save taxes, how a portfolio should be structured, etc.,” Ken explains. “At Tower 68 Financial Advisors, we have the combined experience to completely understand and answer all of these questions – we provide a very personalized experience.” With a team boasting over 100 years of combined experience, Tower 68 offers deep levels of focus and expertise through active portfolio management – a practice that requires a deep understanding of market behaviors and trends. Their approach is both collaborative and proactive, and the firm often interfaces with other trusted professionals to make sure they are providing accurate reporting and education based on client needs. At Tower 68, the team lives by one very important mantra, ‘Be 100% at what we can control. Be the best you can be at what needs to be reacted to.’ “When people come into our office, they are surprised that our phones seldom ring, even during difficult market environments. This is because we are proactively reaching out to our clients to let them know how their portfolios are progressing and alerting them to things they should pay attention to.” Tower 68 offers services to clients with portfolios of all sizes – with no minimums. “People don’t usually start out with millions of dollars,” Ken says. “Assets are accumulated over time and invested for long-term growth. That’s why we grow the relationship with the client.” As far as the secret to his lasting success, Ken believes his “learning for a living” mindset has served him well over the years. “One thing I practice daily is research, research, research. An investor can never be too prepared. My best advice to others is to remember, the investment you may choose doesn’t know you own it. Don’t think you will hurt its feelings – it’s ok to move on if it’s not helping you toward your ultimate financial goal!”

Office Line: 949.945.6970 | Info@tower68.com | tower68.com

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of SOCAL LIFESTYLE

KEVIN MADDEN CEO

SMKFLWR As the creator of lifestyle’s new face of OC-built and Cali-made boutique clothing brands, Kevin Madden, CEO of SMKFLWR (surf-inspired clothing and lifestyle) says that having the guts to deliver on his promise to remain American made has paid off. “I always imagined having to take risks in business

68 Ora nge C o ast • July 2022

and keeping my promise to make all our clothing in the USA has been a risk worth taking.” Madden‘s loyal supporters of the brand add that a slightly higher price point for limited run graphics of locally drawn original artwork, extensive fabric quality sourcing and testing and haute couture

standards for construction is easily justified by the exclusivity of owning a piece from one of his limited release collections. Reminiscent of a bespoke shopping experience of brands at a much higher price point the refreshingly relevant offering of seasonal color palettes and fashion trends set the tone in a well-

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appointed boutique not often found in this space. From swimwear to ready-to-wear SMKFLWR lifestyle is keeping an everexpanding audience satisfied. New capsule drops are churned out as quickly as this brand has evolved into the latest in-the-know before-you-know brand and those styles will be once again flying into neighborhoods well beyond the confines of OC. After all,

OC is and always will be the epicenter of culture. A recent major partnership with vibey beach party Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores, AL has SMKFLWR riding high tide into what is sure to be a hot summer of exciting new fashion streetwear and authentic board shorts designed and tested by local north side surfing legend Teddy “Shreddy” Navarro melding new school and old school

in a dare I say sophisticated way. Just 3 blocks from the pier with the waves breaking in the background all shipping, returns and customer service go straight through the flagship location at 301 Main St. in Huntington Beach. There you will find a new kind of lifestyle brand. One with undeniable southern California energy.

301 Main Street, Suite 109, Huntington Beach | smkflwr.com

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of WOMEN’S WELL-BEING From left:

AkermanMed OBGYN & Midwifery AkermanMed has provided OBGYN services to women in Orange County since 2005. With multiple office locations (Orange, Santa Ana and now in Irvine) AkermanMed specialists have privileges for surgeries and deliveries at St Joseph Hospital of Orange, HOAG Newport, HOAG Irvine Fudge Family Birthing Suites and OCGMC. Without question, the stellar staff shares the same goal: to provide honest and superior care services to women. “Patients love our care approach and see AkermanMed providers and staff as family,” says Dr. Akerman. “When it comes to establishing a long-lasting relationship with an OBGYN and caring for their family, they know

1310 West Stewar t Drive, Suite 307 Orange 714.633.0886

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that they can count on us to always be there.” AkermanMed stands out for having a collaborative care team of physicians, midwives and nurse practitioners that offer options to women of all ages to make them feel empowered about their health care. They are recognized for excellent clinical outcomes, bedside manners, and patient satisfaction. In addition to English, all specialists speak another language: Spanish, Tagalog, Japanese, Afrikaans and Korean. With a wide range of services, AkermanMed compassionately supports women through all stages of life. The practice providers: Allan Akerman MD, FACOG, Stephanie Lao MD,

22 Odyssey, Suite 200 (Opening August 2022) Irvine 949.AKERMAN

Yoko Suzuki, MD, FACOG, Midwives Vicki Aphailee, Rachel Israel, and Deirdre Degenaar, and Nurse Practitioners Debbie Tobin and Mayra Sohn, are all trained in evidencebased medicine and use their unique training to individualize care for each patient. The collaboration of doctors, midwives and nurse practitioners is what makes AkermanMed unique among healthcare providers as they can offer the best of both holistic and Western medicine. “Our office provides a safe and comfortable environment where the patients’ needs always come first. Our providers will always take the time to discuss your preferences and options making you an active partner in your own care.”

1220 Hemlock Way, Suite 200 Santa Ana 714.966.9795 akermanmd.com

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of LAGUNA BEACH

JOHN STANALAND REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT

JOHN STANALAND GROUP IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2022 ALONE, THE JOHN STANALAND TEAM SOLD OVER $200,000,000 ON AND OFF THE MARKET. Unlike other agent teams in our market, we are not a 10, 20, or 30+ person team. We are proud to be a team of just four highly skilled associates. We’re even more proud to have such long-lasting client relationships, which we deeply value and owe much of our success to it’s why we’ve repeatedly set and broken local records, all while keeping our clients’ satisfaction and best interests top of mind. Our clients and colleagues describe us as highly efficient, hard-working, diligent, knowledgeable, proactive, and reliable. Our deep roots in coastal & South OC - with a lineage of 5 generations of local real estate experts - allow us to serve our clients as highly effective negotiators that do our very best on every deal, no matter the dollar amount. Our wide breadth of experience enables us to get you the biggest and best price when selling, or the very best deal on your dream home (or an ideal investment property) when buying. We handle all of our transactions with utmost care, professionalism, sense of urgency and tenacity with purpose. We are always available for our clients; we’re just a simple text, email or call away. When looking to land that big deal or make your transaction as quick & efficient as possible, hire a team that has the ability, skill, track record, experience, and instinct to know what tackle to use in our Southern California market.

1833 South Coast Highway, Suite 210, Laguna Beach | 949.689.9047 | johnstanaland.com

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of BEAUTIFUL CLOSETS

KYRSTI ASHMALL

DEBORAH CLARK

GUS BUGARIN

DESIGN CONSULTANT

MASTER INSTALLER

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

When it comes to installed custom storage, California Closets can build a great solution for almost any room in your home. Although closets are the company’s top seller, entertainment centers, pantries, and home offices are all in very high demand this year. Whether your taste profile leans toward modern, contemporary, transitional, traditional, luxe or all white, the company can design to your style. “I love hearing my clients’ unique personal stories and finding a way for California Closets to fit into their everyday routine. My goal with my clients is to simplify the process and provide them with a fun and collaborative experience, all while designing the perfect solution for their space that is just as beautiful as it is functional” says Design Consultant Kyrsti Ashmall. “I really enjoy my work, and I love doing

things with my hands. Starting with hundreds of individual pieces - like a puzzle - God gives me the skills, knowledge, and strength to start and to complete a project that puts smiles on my clients’ faces” shares Master Installer Gus Bugarin. “Designing insightfully and understanding specific needs is critical to providing clients with great service” Design Consultant Deborah Clark points out, “California Closets sets a wonderful example of excellence and specific care in everything they do, and I try to honor my clients with the same kind of care, and treat them like family”. California Closets offers custom storage designs for closets, offices, garages, laundry rooms, pantries, bars, and media centers. Reach out and book a design consultation today.

5921 Skylab Road, Huntington Beach / 2854 East Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar | 800.274.6754 / 714.899.4905 | californiaclosets.com

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF ORANGE COUNTY

KIMBERLY CHAVALAS CRIPE PRESIDENT AND CEO

CHOC Kimberly Chavalas Cripe, CHOC’s president and chief executive officer, leads a mighty brigade of defenders of childhood. Under her leadership, everyone at CHOC – from medical providers and researchers to janitorial and administrative staff – is dedicated to keeping kids healthy and preserving the magic of childhood. With two hospitals and multiple primary and specialty care centers located across four counties, CHOC is always close when families need care. CHOC’s Primary Care Network provides regular well-checks and immunizations, helping ensure kids reach developmental milestones. CHOC’s centers of excellence provide highly specialized treatments for the most serious pediatric illnesses and injuries. Its research and innovation institutes are focused on translating real patient needs into comprehensive treatments so every child can reach their full potential. The pediatric healthcare system has also partnered with Orange County schools to bring wellness centers to a cross section of school campuses. Through this unique partnership, students navigating an increasingly fastpaced world can now take a moment during the school day to catch their breath and collect their thoughts at their school’s calming “WellSpace.” Learn more about CHOC’s passionate defense of childhood at choc.org.

1201 West La Veta Avenue, Orange | 714.509.8680 | choc.org

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FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY & INFERTILITY

LAWRENCE B. WERLIN, MD, FACOG REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY & INFERTILITY (REI) SPECIALIST

COASTAL FERTILITY MEDICAL CENTER Celebrating 40 years of helping couples create their families in Orange County, Dr. Lawrence B. Werlin is one of the nation’s most noted Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI) specialists. He pioneered the use of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) in Southern California and believes that educating patients regarding their fertility options is paramount. Reproductive Medicine is one of the most dynamic, rapidly changing fields of medicine. It is, and continues to be our goal, to help couples understand and utilize these changes to successfully achieve their goals. Due to his passion for teaching, we have compiled a number of seminars available on our website,

coastalfertility.com, to introduce the public to the world of fertility treatment. In addition, he informs the younger population about fertility preservation and freezing their eggs for the future. Coastal has been one of Orange County’s leading providers of reproductive care to infertility patients since 1982. Our lives are connected to our patients, and it becomes a lifetime relationship. Our patients keep us updated on all of their milestones. The center’s primary goal is personalized patient care and its dedicated staff are widely recognized for their compassion, as well as their special attention to the individual needs of their patients.

HONORS AND AWARDS • Orange Coast magazine’s Physicians of Excellence 2005-2021 • Los Angeles magazine’s Super Doctors 2008-2021 • America’s Best Doctors 1996-2020 • America’s Most Compassionate Doctor 2010-2014 • Patient’s Choice Award 2008- 2014 • Who’s Who in America 1998-2014 • Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare 2002-2010

15500 Sand Canyon Avenue, Suite 100, Ir vine | 949.726.0600 | CoastalFer tility.com

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The FACE of INTEGRITY

MATTHEW FEHLING PRESIDENT & CEO

BBB PACIFIC SOUTHWEST Inclusive businesses that act with integrity transform communities to achieve positive social impact. And that’s what Better Business Bureau (BBB) is all about. By consistently challenging the status quo, Matthew Fehling is pushing the boundaries to ensure BBB remains a trusted, top of mind brand. As President & CEO, Fehling is a nationally praised leader for his reimagined implementation of the BBB mission. “We take pride in continuing to improve, and respond appropriately to elevate the network of ethically conscious businesses in Orange County,” said Fehling. “We want people to hear Better Business Bureau and know it’s a place of support for good businesses.” Fehling’s empowering leadership encourages groundbreaking initiatives for BBB, including serving diverse business owners with educational summits, a self-paced online incubator, access to affordable capital with Kiva loans, and a premier accelerator program in partnership with GoDaddy. Fehling strives to be an agent for change, and with BBB’s Torch Awards for Ethics, the bar is set for how trustworthy business operations can positively affect the community. Businesses leading the way in Orange County will be recognized at the September 13, 2022 celebration.

120 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach | 949.269.3255 | BBB.org

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The FACE of SPINE NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

DANIEL S. YANNI, MD, FAANS

NEUROSURGEON

DISC COMFORT, INC. Dr. Daniel S. Yanni is a board certified 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. “We bring the wealth of knowledge from the University academic days and marry it to a private practice concierge style model that provides the highest caliber of personalized care,” he says. Dr. Yanni was a teenager in a high school anatomy class when he decided to become a neurosurgeon. He graduated summa cum laude from UCLA in Neuroscience. His passion for Neurological Surgery grew further while in medical school at the University of California, San Diego. “I was impressed by the anatomy and wiring in the brain and spine—how electrical signals are translated into motion, sensation, memories and speech,” says Yanni. Ever focused on innovation, Dr. Yanni performs spine surgery through key-hole sized incisions, a minimally invasive procedure that allows patients to be released within hours or days and return to work within weeks. In addition, Dr. Yanni also performs traditional open surgery for complex, deformity, and revision cases. 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. “Any patient suffering from neck pain, back pain or difficulty walking – this is what we are here for.”

1501 Superior Avenue, Suite 214, Newport Beach | office 949.515.0051 | fax 949.515.0052 | yannimd.com

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The FACE of MEDICAL RADIOLOGY

ELIZABETH J. PUSEY, MD RADIOLOGIST

WOMEN’S MEDICAL IMAGING As a board-certified radiologist with decades of experience, Dr. Elizabeth Pusey is known as a compassionate physician who believes healthcare is a partnership with her patients. Dr. Pusey and her team work with you to assess personal risk for breast cancer and choose the best options for detection, offering both ultrasound and mammography for earlier detection. “The intimate size of my practice is perfect for patients seeking a lifelong dedicated partner in their breast health and allows my team and I to build a unique and lasting relationship with our patients.” Dr. Pusey received her B.S. from MIT., M.S. from Berkeley, and M.D. from UCSF. Her passion for accessible healthcare led her to found Rural Wellness, Inc., which currently operates three critical access hospitals in Oklahoma, with the mission of bringing top-quality healthcare to rural communities. She also heads the AVEM Rural America Foundation to support local programs that enhance the quality of life in rural communities.

361 Hospital Road, Suite 528, Newport Beach | 949.645.2321 | Epuseymdinc@gmail.com | DrPusey.com

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The FACE of ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

STEVEN A. MIYAMOTO, DDS ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON

FULLERTON ORAL SURGERY Recognized as one of the Top Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of Orange County by Orange Coast Magazine, Dr. Steven Miyamoto has decades of experience providing high-level care to oral surgery patients. Dr. Miyamoto combines sophisticated technology with the latest oral surgery innovations to ensure your family’s oral health is in the best of hands. Dr. Miyamoto ensures patient satisfaction by providing personalized care for each individual undergoing oral surgery. He specializes in using growth factors and stem cells to expedite healing after surgery. He utilizes the patient’s own stem cells to speed up healing after wisdom teeth removal – this has virtually eliminated the risk of dry socket over the last seven years. He also uses stem cells in the treatment of osteonecrosis, which is a risk of slow healing caused by medications that treat osteoporosis. His practice also uses stem cells and growth factors to speed up healing in bone grafting to prepare for implants, treatment of facial injuries, and such state-of-the-art techniques as pinhole surgery. A perfectionist, Dr. Miyamoto places all of his dental implants with computer guided planning techniques for more precise and successful surgeries. He specializes in full mouth reconstruction with implants through the “All on X” teeth replacement procedure. In over 27-years of placing dental implants, his long-term success rate is 99.9%. Dr. Miyamoto is fully trained in general anesthesia and can perform these procedures comfortably and safely with sedation. He specializes in those with high dental anxiety. He is an inspector for the California State Board and helped write the licensure test for Dental Sedation Assistants. His staff is especially distinguished and fully licensed with the Dental Sedation Assistant Permit by the State Board, which only the best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery assistants achieve. Dr. Miyamoto’s favorite trips involved going on medical missions to an orphanage in China, rural areas of Ensenada and Guatemala with dental students from UCLA and Loma Linda, as well as serving at an annual free health care day in Orange County for those in need.

113 West Amerige Avenue, Fullerton | 714.525.1178 | Fullertonoralsurgery.com

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The FACE of PLASTIC SURGERY

GHADA AFIFI, MD, FACS HAHNS KIM, MD, FACS PLASTIC SURGEONS

AfifiMD, PlasticSurgeryClinic.com For over two decades, Ghada Afifi has been recognized as a gifted, double board certified plastic surgeon whose commitment to beautiful, natural-looking results has created a loyal following of delighted patients. Word-of-mouth referrals and results that speak for themselves have afforded her a high-demand practice (patients are willing to wait four to six months for an appointment). To meet the increased demand, Dr. Afifi went in search of a practice partner whose philosophy mirrored her own. After an extensive search, she is delighted to welcome board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hahns Kim to her busy practice. Dr. Kim boasts a prestigious affiliation with Loma Linda University Medical Center and has been in practice performing aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery for 12 years. Having received his medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine, Dr. Kim completed his plastic surgery training at Mayo Clinic Arizona and now has a loyal following for his specializations in breast augmentation, lift, breast reconstruction, and body contouring including liposuction and abdominoplasty. Having been trained at Yale and Penn herself, Dr. Afifi was also impressed by his genuine commitment and care. Drs. Afifi and Kim help patients who want to look refreshed while avoiding an overdone or frozen appearance. They offer numerous outpatient surgeries that accomplish more in one hour than five years of nonsurgical treatments. Technology has made surgery easier with less downtime, particularly for aging eyes and necks. Another in-demand service, says Dr. Afifi, is reversing the effects of sub-quality work done elsewhere. “You are not just paying for the syringe of filler, you are paying for the expertise of the physician using it. We help restore a more youthful look without giving away the fact that patients had surgery. Often, even patients’ friends and family are not aware they’ve had a procedure, noting that they just look more rested and youthful.” With two Orange County offices, and now two gifted board certified plastic surgeons at the helm, Drs. Afifi and Kim truly represent “the Face of Plastic Surgery” by providing beautiful, natural-looking results.

1101 Dove Street, Suite 130, Newport Beach | 949.767.7444 / 2200 East Fruit Street, Suite 205, Santa Ana | 714.973.9197 afifimd.com | plasticsurgeryclinic.com July 2022 • Or a nge Coast 79

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The FACE of FAMILY LAW

JOHN R SCHILLING, APC ATTORNEY

JOHN R SCHILLING FAMILY LAW With over five decades of experience, you could say family law is in John R. Schilling’s DNA. Once dubbed among Orange County’s respected “Kings of the Courts,” Mr. Schilling has a core principle to provide his clients with individual, exceptional, and compassionate service that is unwavering. With proven expertise the legal team at the firm offers the best and brightest minds in Family Law. Team members are carefully selected for their experience in Family Law, compassion for clients, and supportive skills. At the forefront, a core value of integrity underpins every decision and interaction. “It is not about telling you what you want to hear; it is about delivering on our word, every time,” says Mr. Schilling. “Most clients have little experience with the legal system, but they do know when promises are made and if they are kept.” The life changing impact his legal expertise has made for clients is unprecedented. He recently received a graduation invitation for a young woman who was an infant when Mr. Schilling litigated her custody case. “At our firm, we treat each client as an individual with a unique set of challenges and expectations. We address their needs with meaningful attention, empathy for their circumstances, and a commitment to advocating on their behalf.” Mr. Schilling’s participation in family law industry organizations is well-documented including American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers; American Association for Justice; National Board of Trial Advocates. Given his tenure, he was also among the first group of lawyers to achieve the distinction of Certified Family Law Specialist. He is also the first and only Orange County attorney to be board certified in family law by the prestigious National Board of Trial Advocacy. Known as an early riser, Mr. Schilling is often in his office just after sunrise reviewing his files for the day or speaking with clients. His commitment to his practice and clients is paramount. “I love the practice of law so much – I always say if you do something you really love it’s not like going to work.”

4100 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 300, Newport Beach | 949.833.8833 | jrschilling.com

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The FACE of CHILDREN’S EAR, NOSE, THROAT-HEAD AND NECK SURGERY

FACES

ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

From left:

GURPREET AHUJA, MD | KEVIN HUOH, MD | COSETTE AUDIRAC, PA-C QIU ZHONG, MD | JAY BHATT, MD | NGUYEN PHAM, MD CHOC PEDIATRIC OTOLARYNGOLOGY DIVISION Expertise, integrity, and professionalism. These are the attributes that form the foundation of the Otolaryngology Division of CHOC Children’s Specialists. The CHOC Pediatric Otolaryngology Division is the only group in Orange County that is exclusively dedicated to pediatric ear, nose and throat disorders. The division’s highly acclaimed surgeons are all board-certified and have received their pediatric fellowship training at various top institutions in the country. The division’s surgeons are completely dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for ENT problems in children of all ages–from newborns to teenswhile fostering a trusting and professional relationship with our patients and their families. The three senior members, Dr. Ahuja, Dr. Pham and Dr. Huoh have been recognized by the Orange County Medical

Association as “Physicians of Excellence”. The division’s doctors actively participate in a variety of CHOC Children’s Hospital’s multidisciplinary clinics, consistent with CHOC’s commitment to providing the finest care to all of OC’s children. The division is fully committed to providing state-of-theart treatment options for routine as well as complex pediatric ear, nose, throat-head and neck disorders. The division’s areas of expertise range from common management of tonsil and adenoid disorders and recurrent ear infections, to management of complex airway abnormalities, pediatric sinus disease, cleft lip and palate defects, gastroesophageal reflux related ENT issues, voice and speech problems, surgical management of head and neck masses and birth defects, and surgical management of hearing loss.

SPECIALTIES • Intracapsular tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy • Cochlear implants and BAHAs • Congenital and Acquired Masses of the Head and Neck • Surgical Management of Voice and Swallowing disorders • Airway reconstruction • Surgery for Sleep Apnea • Cleft Lip and Palate • Sinus Disease • Pediatric thyroid and parathyroid surgery • Vascular and Lymphatic Malformations • Anterior skull Base surgery

Our surgeons, and physician assistant, are available at five convenient locations throughout Orange County: 1010 W. La Veta Ave., Suite 710 Orange, CA 92868

446 Old Newport Blvd. Newport Beach, CA 92633

250 E. Yale Loop, Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92604

770 Pacific Coast Highway Seal Beach, CA 90740

26691 Plaza, Suite 130 Mission Viejo, CA 92691

714.633.4020 | specialists.chocchildrens.org/otolaryngology

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The FACE of JUSTICE

JENNIFER R. JOHNSON ATTORNEY

LAW OFFICE OF JENNIFER R. JOHNSON As a former nurse, current lawyer and longtime advocate of social justice, Jennifer Johnson has dedicated both her personal and professional life to making a difference in her community. “Often, the people I represent wouldn’t otherwise have a voice,” she says, “and that’s why it’s such an incredible honor to represent them in the court of law.” In her legal practice, Ms. Johnson concentrates on catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice and elder abuse, providing injured individuals with committed and compassionate representation in Southern California and many other parts of the country. “I focus on cases that cry out for justice, because I strongly believe that access to justice is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all,” she says. Prior to attending law school, Ms. Johnson served in one of the country’s most trusted professions— nursing. And in establishing her own law firm, she drew on her experience in that field, as well as on her expertise from working first at two prestigious defense firms and then at a national powerhouse plaintiff firm. “People often ask why I became a lawyer after already being a successful ICU nurse,” says Ms. Johnson, who has practiced law since 1992. “But as a nurse and a lawyer, my motivation has been the same: to make a difference in people’s lives.”

9210 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine | 714.884.4197 | fax 714.884.4206 | JenniferJohnsonLaw.com

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The FACE of BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS AND BATHS

TAMARA STRATTON LEED AP, UDCP

DEBBIE NASSETTA CKD, CBD, CID

JULIE WILKINS ASID

ROOMSCAPES

Whether your project is large or small, the Roomscapes design staff is available by appointment to discuss your remodeling needs. With a full staff of project managers and installers, your new kitchen or bath will exceed your expectations. Their turnkey approach is what produces the best results in a timely manner. All of the talented Roomscapes designers are adept in every phase of kitchen and bath remodeling. Their expertise comes from years of working closely with clients, keeping up with trends and education in the industry and from their passion for their work. They also do other areas of the home, inside and out!! Consider an outdoor

kitchen to extend your living area and make entertaining so much more enjoyable. You can also depend on Roomscapes for all aspects of interior design, from furniture, flooring and lighting to decorative wall finishes to complete your project. Each Roomscapes project is completed from design concept thru expert installation by the Roomscapes team of installers, so you can feel confident from start to finish. Visit their website and see the incredible range of design ideas they have created for past clients. Or, come to their showroom at SOCO in Costa Mesa in person – they look forward to meeting you!

Roomscapes Showroom at SOCO | 3323 Hyland Avenue, Suite G1, Costa Mesa | 949.448.9627 | roomscapes.net

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The FACE of PERSONAL INJURY LAW

SAMER HABBAS ATTORNEY

THE LAW OFFICES OF SAMER HABBAS Ambitious to strike a path of his own, founder Samer Habbas formed The Law Offices of Samer Habbas in 2006—a fullservice personal injury law firm—on the mantra that the client always comes first; “Our client’s satisfaction is our success,” he says. Samer and his team work on a variety of personal injury cases from car accidents, medical malpractice, slip and falls, dog bites, elder abuse and more. His office is well known among insurance carriers for not backing down and always fighting to get his clients the best settlement possible. When asked what sets his firm apart Samer notes, “Our philosophy centers around offering every client a personalized experience where they will have direct communication with their attorney both in pre-litigation and litigation. Our clients are treated as more than just a number here. My firm is designed to take cases and handle them all the way through trial, we are a litigating firm.” Samer has earned several awards that reflect his hard work in the field. Due to his aggressive approach, he has resolved numerous cases for seven figures. He recently secured an $11,000,000.00 settlement for a truck accident that left his client with catastrophic injuries. In addition, Samer secured a settlement for $3,450,000.00 for a motorcyclist struck by a motorist. Outside the office, Samer is a contributing and involved member of the community. He is a regular supporter of several non-profit organizations such as the Children’s Hospital of Orange County and Best Buddies. The office routinely holds toy drives, food drives, and school supply drives for the local community, and provides scholarships to students. Samer also enjoys mentoring law school students and providing them clerkships with his firm. Many of those clerks stay at the firm and are now standout attorneys who embody the core beliefs of the office. With locations in Irvine, Anaheim, Los Angeles, El Segundo, Riverside, and San Diego, if you ever need a personal injury attorney that has his client’s best interest at heart contact The Law Offices of Samer Habbas and Associates.

200 Spectrum Center Driver, Suite 1230, Irvine | 949-570-5660 | habbaspilaw.com

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The FACE of FINE MEXICAN CUISINE

JAVIER CUADRA OWNER

URBANA MEXICAN GASTRONOMY + MIXOLOGY Restaurateur Javier Cuadra was born in Michoacán, “the belly” of Mexico. Michoacán boasts an abundance of culture and delectable street foods which influenced Javier into opening a restaurant showcasing the region’s finest offerings. “I always had a passion for food, while going to college for international business I worked in the restaurant industry and this inspired me to have my own one day. Experiencing the unique cuisine that Mexico has to offer and seeing how there was nothing like that in Orange County inspired me to bring a small piece of Mexican culture here.” Javier’s love of “street food” has heavily influenced URBANA’s eclectic menu, which features natural and fresh ingredients including handmade tortillas, gourmet tacos and snapper ceviche, creatively prepared by Chef Ernie Alvarado. “My personal favorite are the Mole enchiladas, made with a house made Mole sauce that reminds me of home,” says Javier. Located in the Anaheim Packing House, the candle-lit ambiance at URBANA is inspired by the ‘Dia de los Muertos’ celebration, a nod to Javier’s October 30th birthday, and since opening, the restaurant has earned the Golden Foodie Award among other recognitions. “The fact that together with Chef Alvarado we were able to change how people see Mexican cuisine is a huge accomplishment.”

Inside SkyDeck Del Mar | 12841 El Camino Real, San Diego | 858.925.7236 | UrbanaDelMar.com

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The FACE of PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

BRENT MOELLEKEN, MD, FACS PLASTIC SURGEON

BRENT MOELLEKEN, MD Just developed and perfected, Dr. Moelleken now offers the LBAM, a breast augmentation technique using his trademarked LiveFill. Fundamentally different from fat injection or transfer, the LBAM is for subtle augmentation of the breasts in women not wishing to have synthetic breast implants. The LBAM joins many of Dr. Moelleken’s other innovations like Live Fill, Ultrashort Incision Cheek Lift, the 360 Face Lift, the Hybrid Tummy Tuck, and numerous other trademarked procedures for obtaining a more natural appearance ... without the classic signs of surgery. For those patients wishing to have minimally invasive procedures, Cloud Med Spa Beverly Hills is a minimally invasive extension of his surgical practice. In Cloud Med Beverly Hills, Dr. Moelleken’s team has created a unique, comfortable and serene environment for patients. A variety of nonsurgical solutions include stateof-the-art lasers and radio frequency-based technologies, platelet rich plasma (PRP) for face and hair loss, along with an array of treatments for skin rejuvenation, body contouring, and skin resurfacing. Dr. Moelleken’s work has been published in numerous medical journals and has been presented nationally and internationally. He is also very active in charity work through his own About Face Surgical Foundation, as well in other foundations that serve veterans and the LGBTQ community. Dr. Moelleken has offices in Beverly Hills and Santa Barbara. He trained at Harvard, Yale, UCSF, and UCLA, where he is an associate clinical professor of surgery in the Division of Plastic Surgery. When not working in his private practice or teaching UCLA plastic surgery residents, you can find Dr. Moelleken cycling in the mountains or spending time with his wife, kids, and their three dogs.

120 South Spalding Drive, Suite 110 | Beverly Hills | 310.273.1001 | drbrent.com | @drbrentmoelleken

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SPON SOR ED C ON TEN T

FACES ORANGE COUNTY -2022-

The FACE of LABOR & EMPLOYMENT

Mr. Albright specializes in Labor and Employment Law. He earned his J.D. from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, and a Master’s Degree from The National Institute of Trial Advocacy. Mr. Albright is licensed to practice before the United States Supreme Court.

CLIFTON ALBRIGHT ATTORNEY

ALBRIGHT, YEE & SCHMIT, APC Clifton W. Albright is the President of Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC, a prestigious boutique law firm in Newport Beach and Los Angeles.

Newport Beach 17 Corporate Plaza Drive, Suite 374, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Los Angeles 707 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 3600, Los Angeles, CA 90017 213.833.1700 | ayslaw.com

“Throughout our 40 year history, our law firm has become well known and recommended for the quality of its legal work and personalized service. We understand our clients’ objectives and we strive to exceed their expectations.” said Mr. Albright. The firm’s practice areas include: Employment Counseling, Education and Litigation, Workplace Investigations, Business and Commercial Litigation, General Liability

O.C. Scene

Litigation, Cannabis Licensing, Operational Development, and Regulatory Compliance.

A sought-after speaker, Mr. Albright conducts continuing education programs for attorneys, executives, and employees in such areas as employment and labor law, business management, and complex litigation. Mr. Albright received an AV-Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and was named a 2022 Southern California Super Lawyer by Los Angeles Magazine. In 2022, the Los Angeles Business Journal named him a ‘Top 100 Lawyer’ and a ‘Leader of Influence: Minority Attorneys’. Mr. Albright was also the recipient of the ‘Lawyer of the year’ award from The Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce in 2017. However, Mr. Albright’s most significant accomplishment is being wise enough to marry his amazing wife Stella and becoming the proud father of three outstanding sons.

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

PA R T I E S

EVENTS

OPENINGS

CALIFORNIA WINE FESTIVAL 2022 California Wine Festival returned to Dana Point on April 22 and 23 for two days of coastal tasting events at Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel and Sea Terrace Park. Guests were able to sample offerings from over 70 wineries across many of the Golden State’s winemaking regions paired with gourmet food selections from many of Orange County’s top restaurants. Guests also enjoyed live entertainment, taking in expansive coastal views and participating in interactive activations hosted by select sponsors.

Photo Credit: Luis Esparza Photography

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SEE

RO L PAG E 9 3

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FROM DELICIOUS DISHES AND MUST-TRY COCKTAILS TO PAINTING PARTIES AND CUSTOMIZABLE LIPSTICK, THIS YEAR’S ROUNDUP FEATURES ALL THE THINGS WE’VE TRIED IN THE COUNTY THAT WE CAN’T WAIT TO SHARE WITH YOU. FO O D & D R I N K

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photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

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HERBFORWARD COCKTAIL rown-butter bourbon and housemade bitters are plenty to draw your curiosity, but add tarragon and the Smooth Operator ($17) at Knife Pleat becomes impossible to resist. Sophisticated and fresh, this one will have you humming many of Sade’s best songs while you sip. Costa Mesa, 714-266-3388

90 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

SURPRISING STARTER

ONIGIRI SPECIALIST

WAFFLE HYBRID

he spinach, garlic, and artichoke hummus ($16) at Tres Muchachos is delicious and addictive. The artichoke flavor stands out, and the garlic, paprika, and chimichurri combine to make this appetizer one you’ll order every time. The team here aims to impress, not just with the fresh and flavorful food, but also with an impressive wine program. Costa Mesa, 949-220-7811

staple at Japanese convenience stores, onigiri are rice balls or triangles traditionally filled with fish and wrapped in nori. The new Ricebunn at Trade Food Hall builds its entire menu around the snack, available with salmon, tuna, shrimp, Korean barbecue beef, and veggies. Get a trio ($12) or order one big rice ball in a bowl as a meal ($14). Irvine, 949-774-1512

ike the cronut before it, the croffle ($2.75)— part croissant, part waffle—made a stir when it launched last year at Artisan , a collaboration between O.C. favorites 7 Leaves Cafe and Crema Bakery. Made by cooking croissant dough in a waffle iron and served with your choice of vanilla cream, salted caramel, or jam, the crispy, buttery treat is the best of both worlds. Fountain Valley, 657-229-4349

4-POUND CROISSANT

JAPANESE RECORD BAR

COCONUT COFFEE

GREEN COCKTAIL

nstead of a layer cake for your next birthday party, consider this: Le Parfait Paris offers a croissant that’s more than 10 inches long and weighs a whopping 2 pounds. If you want it filled with vanilla, chocolate, or berry pastry cream, it will weigh 4 pounds. Add a chocolate happy birthday sign and be sure to order 48 hours in advance. $35 to $50. Anaheim, 619-245-4457

he Oak Room attached to Oak & Coal offers a rare chance to enjoy Asian-inspired cocktails and bar bites while listening to records. The first of its kind in Orange County, the bar can be accessed through Oak & Coal and guests can order from the restaurant’s full menu as well. Costa Mesa, 949-287-6150

hin Smith offers traditional and modern variations of Vietnamese coffee drinks, including coconut coffee, ice-blended with an all-natural coconut creamer ($4.75). The unconventional combination gives way to a flavor that’s the perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess. Bring non-coffee lovers here, and they’re sure to change their minds. Garden Grove, phinsmith.com

he Centerbe, an Italian liqueur based on herbs, makes the So Good and Tasty a beautiful chartreuse color. The team at

Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens adds gin, pine-

apple, and lime plus garnish of fresh sage, dill, and thyme to make it delicious. Fresh and summery, it’s perfect to linger over while looking at the garden. Corona del Mar, 949-640-1415

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RS’ RA V ES

CO LD B R EW zsuzsamontejano @disneyland Cold Brew Black Caf from Docking Bay 7 in Galaxy’s Edge t__tasha Best coffee @hunterscafeandbakery And the best pastries brookedieda @thelostbean ashleybolduc @cmcoffeenature! ocbrewgirl @chapmancrafted.coffee cookielab.oc @thegroundedcoffeehouse has the BEST cold brew in Cali!!

COO KI E davidthefoodie @paderiabakehouse lilpinkiesup THE COOKIE @bristolfarms or @neimanmarcusfashionisland chocolate chip cookie greys__mama @ooeygooeycookies.oc hands down!! Soo good! reneebbradshaw @bellbottombakeryca Gluten free blondie is THE BEST!!! fernkenobi @doughandarrow are the Michael Jordan of cookies. annalaura.nelson @cookielab.oc! All of their cookies are outrageous, but the paleo is out of this universe good badgalbribri1 @nowherebakery by a landslide! wyldhoneyphotography @brookescookie_co 92 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

MUGWORT COOKIE

MOLE COCKTAIL

PARTY PASTRIES

popular herb used in Korean cooking, mugwort has an earthy taste somewhat reminiscent of ginger. The beguiling mugwort mochi cookie ($5.45) at Union Market’s Braga Baker is hefty, packed with almonds and walnuts, and subtle in its sweetness, perfect for pairing with sweetened tea or coffee. Tip: Ask for it to be warmed up. Tustin

isit Chaak for a Mayan twist on an Old-Fashioned. The cocktail ($13.50) includes ingredients such as mole, mezcal, and vanilla simple syrup, as well as Gentleman Jack, angostura bitters, orange and lemon oils, and an orange peel to top it off. Pair it with one of Chaak’s popular dishes such as the sikil p’ak, a pumpkin seed dip ($13). Tustin, 657-699-3019

téphane Tréand is irrefutably the county’s most lauded French pastry chef, renowned for his elite patisserie. Two days a week, admirers can buy just-baked delicacies at his jewel box of a boutique,

The Pastry School and Shop. Caramelized

croissants, dainty eclairs, gorgeous tartlets, and exquisite chocolate bon bons will make you the hero of any party. Available Friday and Saturday. Tustin, 949-500-4807

NOVELTY DESSERT nimal style doesn’t get sweeter than a Circus Animal ice cream sundae at Sugarbuzz , because unicorns are so 2020. This three-ring concoction includes shortcake crumbles, iced circus animal cookies, marshmallow sauce, rainbow sprinkles, and a hot-pink cherry on top ($9). Anaheim Hills, 714-941-9059

HAND ROLL BAR ith warm rice, crisp nori, and delicious fillings, the hand rolls at ROL are not to be missed. The staff recommends first-timers try out the set menus, including a selection of five hand rolls for $25, six for $32, and seven for $36. Huntington Beach, 714-948-4287

MAZEMEN VARIETY ogu Mogu serves up seven varieties of mazemen, ramen’s soupless cousin, including variations with chashu, minced pork, tofu, and even plant-based Impossible meat. Mazemen means “mixed noodles” in Japanese, and it’s tradition to mix the dish well before eating to incorporate the sauce and toppings such as poached egg. Once all the noodles are gone, add in the accompanying white rice to sop up all the leftover sauce. $13 to $16.50. Costa Mesa, 714-760-4811

VARIETY OF VEGAN DESSERTS ineapple upsidedown cake, raw red velvet cake, guava cheesecake, and coconut tres leche cake ($11.50 each) are just a few of the dessert options at Gracias Madre. Like everything on the menu, they’re vegan, but they’re so delicious even the most ardent dairy fans won’t notice what’s missing. Newport Beach, 949-386-8100

TROPICAL PALETAS

AREPAS ON THE BEACH

reat yourself to a paleta ($2), a fruity or creamy ice pop, from La Michoacana , “home of the authentic paletería experience.” Flavors range from traditional vanilla to tropical fruits such as soursop and guava. The abundance of flavors will leave you wanting to come back and try more. Multiple locations, michoacana.com

fter taking over the T-street concession stand late last year, the couple behind West Toast Café transformed it into a site for healthy, organic food perfect for families visiting the beach or surfers needing to refuel after a session. Besides fresh fare such as avocado toast, acai bowls, and smoothies, the cafe also serves arepas ($12) and other Venezuelan treats when available. San Clemente, @westtoastcafe

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RS’ RA DE V A

MARTI N I moniquerenee Lychee!!! @littlesisteroc savclark The Dirty Bleu @matterofcrafthb !!

PULLED PORK here’s much ado about the brisket and ribs at Heritage Barbecue, and deservedly so. But we can’t imagine a meal there without the pulled pork—make that Heritage Breed Duroc pulled pork—whether as the main dish, on the side with pickles and bourbon barbecue sauce, or in a taco or sandwich. San Juan Capistrano, heritagecraftbbq.com

VEGETARIAN MARKET

ege Wholesale

stocks a dizzying array of hard-tofind vegan and vegetarian products. Mock meats including fish, chicken, beef, lamb, shrimp, and even lobster line the aisles along with Vietnamese staples and a large assortment of plant-based jerky. Westminster, 714-902-1335

TO-GO TEA PARTY ainty, crusts-off tea sandwiches made fresh every day are hiding in the grab-and-go fridge at busy Cream Pan Bakery. An assortment of four flavors packed in the “sandwich box” ($4.50) includes ham, turkey, tuna, and a lighterthan-air egg salad. Tustin, 714-665-8239

mrs_sindero Pear Martini at Quattro Cafe South Coast Plaza aj_dickens A restaurant ! Dirty martinis with stuffed olives becca_goeken Station Craft! luisortega.92 @cdmrestaurant & @undercdm all day divadebscupcakery @mastrosofficial in Newport. Raspberry lemon drop with dry ice. Divine!!

HAPPY H O U R jennifer__t @pacifichideaway letty_dlr1 @2145eats kynalj @countryclubcm charmaineanderson21 @theblindpigoc _fuentes15 @chatosbarandgrill Hands down! Amazing happy hour, food and staff 94 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

ALMOND PASTRY

aris Baguette

does almond croissants ($3.50) justice with its own take on the traditional French pastry. Rather than an almond croissant with cream filling, the bakery sprinkles almond powder and sliced almonds atop a flaky butter croissant— subtle and delicious. Multiple locations, parisbaguette.com

COCKTAIL WITH A MIDWESTERN TWIST

ITALIAN SUB

scape California with an offmenu Wisconsin Old-Fashioned ($17) at Old Brea Chop House. The classic gets a Midwestern accent—cognac kirschwasser, bitters, and soda water are stirred and strained into a cut-glass tumbler over ice. Brea, 714-592-3122

wich at Claro’s Italian Market—six meats and

artake of the Great Grandpa Joe Italian sub sand-

cheeses, each hand-sliced while you watch. And happily prepared to your every whim. It’s served on the Claro family’s renowned rolls, house-baked daily. Closed Wednesdays. Tustin, 714-832-3081

PHOTOGRAPH BY RON DE ANGELIS COURTESY OF HERITAGE BARBECUE

madisynujkic @arcrestaurant has great martinis

POPPI NG U P

PHOTOGRAPH BY RON DE ANGELIS COURTESY OF HERITAGE BARBECUE

You might have grown up eating Pop-Tarts, frosted toaster pastries that have a sweet filling sealed inside two layers of thin pastry crust. Bakeries and coffee shops around Orange County have put their own twists on the beloved treat, offering a variety of unique flavors not found in the typical box on the shelf.

ABLE COFFEE ROASTERS

MOONGOAT COFFEE ROASTERS

Nutella Pop-Tart ($4) Raspberry Pop-Tart ($4)

Seasonal Flavor (such as strawberry matcha or Earl Gray blueberry) Pop-Tart ($4)

Huntington Beach

Costa Mesa

SEABIRDS KITCHEN

CRAFTED DONUTS

Mixed berry ($4.95) Apple cinnamon ($4.95) Coconut ube ($4.95) Maple brown sugar cinnamon ($4.95)

Pop-Tart Donut ($4.75)

Costa Mesa

Fountain Valley

July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 95

DRIED-FLOWER SURPRISE

NONALCOHOLIC BOTTLE SHOP

reate your own shade at Lip Lab by Bite for $60. First select the hue of lipstick you want. From there, you’ll be able to try it on and make any alterations until you land on a color. Then you can choose the scent, finish, and what you want engraved on the tube. Irvine, 949-383-9339

ome for the baked goods, stay for the … everlasting bouquets? You might not expect to find beautiful dried flowers at your neighborhood doughnut shop, but Good Town Doughnuts at The Lab stocks them (arranged in-house!) just next to the display case of handcrafted brioche treats. Costa Mesa, 714-486-1870

hatever your reason for going dry, Brightlife Beverage Co. offers customers an assortment of nonalcoholic wines, beers, spirits, and more. You can also try the store’s functional beverages, which have ingredients such as adaptogens—herbs or mushrooms that are said to give you a boost without any alcohol. Laguna Beach, 949-234-7494

ounded by Kimberly Peterson, Bare

Naked Botanicals

is a skincare line that is handcrafted with plantbased butters, extracts, and essential oils. All the products are vegan and cruelty-free, formulated without harsh chemicals and parabens. The brand’s standout Turmeric 24k Gold Facial Balm ($63) is a luxurious moisturizer packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as argan oil, marula oil, and arnica flower. Lake Forest, 949-264-3938

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF LIP LAB BY BITE

TURMERIC AND GOLD FACIAL BALM

96 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BREITLING, GUCCI, JAEGER-LECOULTRE, OMEGA, PIAGET, ROLEX, TUDOR, AND VACHERON CONSTANTIN

CUSTOMIZABLE LIPSTICK

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BREITLING, GUCCI, JAEGER-LECOULTRE, OMEGA, PIAGET, ROLEX, TUDOR, AND VACHERON CONSTANTIN

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF LIP LAB BY BITE

or the largest selection of highend watches, look no further than South Coast Plaza , the only place in North America with this sort of critical mass. Recent additions Buccellati, Audemars Piguet, and Tag Heuer will be joined by Tudor, Breitling, Hublot, and Roger Dubuis shops opening later this year, to name just a few of the 35 brands available. Costa Mesa, southcoastplaza.com

RS’ RA

LUXURY WATCH SHOPPING

L AS H SALO N gigilashes_eyelashextensions Gigilashes in Costa Mesa bluebag_chic Lash and Brow Beauty Haus katrina.mg_ @pop.society aishiteru.branding @_beautybykei looksbythy @looksststudio

S PA sophia789 I Spa, Irvine frenchfinery14 Little Touch of Heaven on Lido, Mercedes is the best!! July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 97

FUNNY DISH SET offee Dose’s flagship store not only is the perfect backdrop for a photo with its bright colors and a stylish interior, but it’s also the only location where you can find the brand’s plates. With funny sayings such as “Hangover Club” and “Don’t Be An Asshole,” these make for great kitchen decor. Costa Mesa, 949-656-9005

HELPFUL SIGN urfers are often suiting up or hanging with friends in the parking lot before they hit the waves.

The Sunday Arvo Surf Club makes it easy to

avoid having the same conversation with every passing car with its “Sorry, Not Leaving” sign ($28). Not a surfer? It’s also perfect for dropping off bags between rounds of shopping. Santa Ana, sundayarvosurfclub.com

PERMANENT BRACELETS ou’ll love this bracelet so much that you’ll never want to take it off—nor will you be able to. May Martin offers permanent bracelets ($40 to $355) where a delicate gold chain is soldered around your wrist so you won’t have to deal with a pesky clasp. Follow the boutique on Instagram to find when it’s hosting the next event. Costa Mesa, 949-230-2589

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CUSTOM RING BOX ake that special moment even more memorable with a custom ring box from The Mrs. Box . The proposal boxes (starting at $85) come in a variety of colors and patterns to choose from. Rather than sitting in a cushion, the ring is centered on the hinge so that it pops up when you open the box. If you choose a metal top, you can also add an engraving for an additional $30. Newport Beach, themrsbox.com

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PHOTOGRAPH BY JEROMY CHAN 100 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

CHARMING ALLEY owntown Laguna Beach in the summer can be fun but also hot and crowded. Take a respite by turning down Peppertree Lane. The shaded alley is surprisingly picturesque, bringing to mind a quaint European village. Deep within, you’ll find two fitting dessert shops: Gelato Paradiso and La Ru du Chocolat. Laguna Beach

PHOTOGRAPH BY JEROMY CHAN

PARTY BOBA BAR

efore opening a brick-andmortar shop

in 2019, Fruitea Boba started as a catering business. The team continues to specialize in bringing imported milk teas, fruit teas, and toppings to parties and special events. The charming setup includes a chalkboard menu and large light-up letters spelling out BOBA. Orange, 714-912-4009

SWING DANCE POP-UPS

rvine-based

Street Swing Productions

hosts live bands and dances at various venues in the county. Every Tuesday night, for instance, you can swing, jive, and groove to the sounds of a new live band on the outdoor deck at Hangar 24 (no cover). Check the Facebook page for more upcoming events. Multiple cities, facebook.com /streetswingproductions

CLOSE-UP MAGIC

ans of tiki drinks and card tricks converge at

Stowaway’s Enchanted Escape Magic & Cocktails shows.

Featuring ace magicians who regularly appear at The World Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, the intimate performances allow the audience to witness mesmerizing sleight of hand while sipping on creative cocktail specials. $40 plus twodrink minimum. Tustin, 657-208-2088

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he Bead Shop Laguna Beach

top by Faux

Paw Petique

to browse whimsical pet art and gifts by local artist Debbie Carman. While there, be sure to snap a photo of your pooch sitting in the gallery’s signature Instaworthy spot: a decorative bathtub lined with pillows and surrounded by colorful pieces of art. Laguna Beach, 949-274-3111

BEER AND PAINT NIGHT

ALTERNATE BEACH DAY

f the thought of everyone replicating the same painting never appealed to you—or you just love beer more than wine—try one of Craft &

lay on the sand and in the water but without waves or the biggest crowds at Newport Dunes. Rentals for standup paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats provide a chance to relax on top of the water, while the inflatable water park gives adventurous types a place to climb, bounce, slide, and swim. With a snack bar and weekend movies, there’s a full day of activity waiting for your whole group. Newport Beach, 949-729-3863

Arts’ Paint-ish Parties

($40). Billed as “not your average paint night,” the pop-ups take place at local venues such as Green Cheek and Radiant Beer Co. Your ticket includes a drink, a piece of plywood, a quick art lesson, and access to a ton of materials, including paint, glue, and magazines for collaging. Multiple cities, 714-322-9371

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NEWPORT DUNES WATERFRONT RESORT & MARINA

offers a fun way to celebrate a birthday or special occasion with its jewelry making parties ($150). Select from an assortment of beads, charms, and gems for the type of item you’re hoping to create. The shop also allows walk-ins at the creative table based on availability. Laguna Beach, 949-494-2115

INSTAGRAM SPOT FOR YOUR DOG

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HAT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SHERMAN LIBRARY AND GARDENS; SILK PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MAYU SILK ART; VALIDO TRAIL PHOTOGRAPH BY HANS HAMANN

JEWELRY PARTIES

RE HAT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SHERMAN LIBRARY AND GARDENS; SILK PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MAYU SILK ART; VALIDO TRAIL PHOTOGRAPH BY HANS HAMANN

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NEWPORT DUNES WATERFRONT RESORT & MARINA

RS’ RA V ES

EXCUSE TO WEAR A HAT

he annual garden party at Sherman

Library & Gardens

includes a hat contest for enthusiasts to show off their creative skills. Prizes in categories such as best handmade hat and best garden-themed hat tease out some impressive works of art and ways to defy gravity. This year, the garden will add a category specifically for kids. Corona del Mar, 949-673-2261

SILK SCARF PAINTING ook a private party at Mayu Silk Art ($80 to $250) where you’ll get the chance to create a silk scarf with a design unique to you. Select the colors you want and create the design on top of a tray of water. Your scarf will then be placed on top of the design, which will transfer onto the silk. Huntington Beach, 714-379-1990

H I KE allyssavh Valido Trail in South Laguna. Most beautiful panoramic ocean views, and dog friendly! luisyopr Red Rock Canyon! schooledbystultz VALIDO TRAIL

SC E N I C B I KE PATH setjet Definitely the Huntington Beach path!! borack1987 Bommer ridge, crystal cove state park

PL ACE FO R LIVE M US I C madisonoshefsky @marineroomtavern divadebscupcakery @kobe.sealbeach @stillwaterdp @mozambiqueoc angelinaspizzeria @bottegaangelina July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 103

CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE AT IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE

104 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OUTER REEF

“SIX” PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS; CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE

“SIX” AT SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS

LOCAL CREDIT CARD PERK

t’s hard to imagine a better schedule than the stunning 2022-23 season in Orange County. Local Broadway lovers will delight in being some of the first in the nation to see “Six” and “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” as well as the return of the most award-winning musicals in history—“Hamilton,” “Chicago,” and “The Book of Mormon”—all at

ou don’t have to be a Capital One customer to take advantage of the Capital One Café at Irvine Spectrum. Anyone can work, study, or hang out at the sleek space with free Wi-Fi and even private meeting rooms. But if you do have a Capital One card, be sure to use it to get half-off drinks at the cafe serving coffee from Peet’s. Irvine, 949-656-2449

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OUTER REEF

“SIX” PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS; CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE

LINEUP OF SHOWS

Segerstrom Center for the Arts. For more intimate concerts, Irvine Barclay Theatre’s

highlights include multitalented Alan Cumming, Grammy-winning jazz bassist Christian McBride, highly acclaimed actor John Lithgow, and world-class violinist Midori. Hop online for tickets now! scfta.org, thebarclay.org

PLACE TO IMPRESS A SEAFOOD LOVER es there’s highly acclaimed chef John Tesar’s name attached, and the menu at Outer Reef is completely seafood forward and unapologetically in your face. But the best reason to visit might be the breathtaking view of the ocean and the cliffs above overlooking Dana Point Harbor. Dana Point, 949-487-7555

GLOBAL WINE TASTING orldly Saturday tastings at Wine Exchange take curious wonks to Napa, New Zealand, northern Spain, and far beyond. Sample a dozen regional offerings hunted down by power buyers Kyle Meyers and Tristan Beamon. Pricing varies, reserve online. Santa Ana, winex.com, 714-979-1509

2022 B EST O F PART Y Join us on July 28 at Rancho Las Lomas for our annual celebration of the county’s best. For more information and to buy your tickets, visit orangecoast.com/bestof2022.

Contributing writers: BENJAMIN EPSTEIN, ALAN GIBBONS, ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN, GRETCHEN KURZ, ELENA MALEK, COLETTE NGUYEN, and CHELSEA RAINERI July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 105

Visit Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar now through Sept. 21 to view the work of mosaic artist and Irvine resident Irina Charny. This magnificent butterfly was created exclusively for the exhibit. We spoke with Charny about her process and inspiration. by ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

106 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 107

IRINA CHARNY How did you start working in this medium? I didn’t get there by degrees. I have a bachelor’s in math and a master’s in library science, but I’ve always been interested in art, and I was always making things. In the ’90s, we were living in Pasadena and after an earthquake, our fireplace was damaged. I had seen pictures in a magazine where someone had decorated their fireplace with broken tile; I said, “I could do that.” And I did. I used broken tile because I didn’t know how to cut tile. I would break it with a hammer or drop it in the driveway. This was pre-internet so I eventually went to the library and read books about mosaics; little by little I decided to see if I could try and make it as a professional artist. I’m 60 years old, and I’m still trying! Were you artistic as a child? I grew up in Russia, or rather the Soviet Union. I left when I was 12, and I haven’t been back; so I guess technically I’ve never been to Russia. Even as a kid, you learned not to say things you weren’t supposed to say. Not to repeat anything your parents said. You were always somehow careful. Once I came here, I realized how drab it had been. I was always very attracted to things that were colorful. Everything there was all gray and brown. We lived in cities, so there wasn’t a lot of nature, and even the trees managed to be dusty and gray. It was limiting in its way. But I would always draw and make things out of whatever materials I could find. It wasn’t like you could go to the store and buy tons of materials. I used found objects, stuff from the streets and the playground. I would make clothes for my dolls. I would make paper dolls and paper cities. Because we had so few things, we were forced to be much more creative. What’s your process like? Like any kind of artwork, I have an idea and sometimes I’ll make it the next week, sometimes I’ll carry around the idea for months or years, 108 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 109

IRINA CHARNY marinating in my head. Once I’m actually ready to make it, I do some sketching and see what it looks like outside of my head. On a basic rectangular board, I’ll sketch it and get a general layout. I’ll start cutting glass and attach it to the backing. It sometimes takes its own direction once I start. Sometimes materials suggest something, or it just takes a turn and goes somewhere I wasn’t expecting.

“Bu erﬂies have somehow always been popping up somewhere in whatever medium I’ve worked in. is is just the perfect medium for bu erﬂies because it’s so colorful.” How long does it take to complete a piece? Depends on the size and complexity. A few days for something small, or months for a bigger piece. My studio is in my garage, so I’ve taken over half the garage at least with shelves and tables and things. I have a small kiln I use to make fused glass pieces for the mosaics. Glass melts at 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can layer special colored glass and it will melt together. I’ll usually make faces or houses or butterflies or flowers to include in the mosaic. So they’re like tiny little mosaics that are fused together and layered. And those go into the big mosaic. Does that also add texture to the piece? It can. Most of my mosaics have some sort of element of texture. Different heights and feels. I like setting something smooth like glass or mirror next to something rough like stone. 110 O R A N G E C O A S T • July 2022

Some of your pieces even have iPhones embedded into them. What gave you the idea for that? I did a series of pieces that used computer chips, and I would combine them with something floral so that it’s kind of technology versus nature. There’s always the tension because on the one hand, I love technology. Thanks to the internet, I can look at mosaics from all over the world. On the other hand, I absolutely hate technology because it’s soul-killing at times. When my family convinced me to join the 21st century and get an iPhone, I had the idea. Adam and Eve are reaching for the apple, but it’s an Apple iPhone. They’re taking the first selfie. Do you also do art installations? I did a wall at the CHOC floor at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, and I’ve done a few at other children’s hospitals such as in Santa Barbara, where I did a childlike view of the pier with colorful boats and buildings. What kind of works can we expect to see at the exhibit at Sherman Library & Gardens? They have 30-some-odd pieces, mostly with some connection to nature or things that would look nice in a natural setting. A lot of flowers and butterflies, including one very large butterfly, which will be installed in such a way so that people can stand in front of it and take pictures with the wings behind them. That one has about a 6-foot wingspan. You’ve made a lot of butterflies over the years. Why are they special to you? Butterflies have somehow always been popping up somewhere in whatever medium I’ve worked in. This is just the perfect medium for butterflies because it’s so colorful. I even made a fused glass butterfly collection and put them in little frames on my wall. Not only are they beautiful but they provide a lovely symbolism. They can really symbolize anything. July 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 111

PERFECT MIX S N A P S H O T

She sees a common thread in the two fields. “It’s the creativity,” she says. “Teaching history is all storytelling, and all bartenders in competitions use stories. I don’t know how many other bartenders use stories outside of competitions—it might just be me!—but storytelling has become the way I think. It’s my story I’m telling now.”

Tantisalidchai won Licor 43’s How Do You Carajillo competition three years ago. Among strong finishes since, she has placed in the top 100 in the U.S. two years running at the globally prestigious Diageo World Class Bartender Competition. “Thousands enter the Diageo in the U.S., I’m guessing tens of thousands worldwide,” she says. “I was one of two finalists from California this year. At Diageo, you don’t just create the cocktail—they give you feedback. You grow in your skill.”

Tantisalidchai was raised in a Chinese-Thai household. She and her husband have two sons— ages 8 and 20 (her adult son also works at Olea). If she has a night out, she keeps it simple when it comes to cocktails. “I’m a purist,” she says. “I either drink tequila neat or whiskey neat, maybe an Old-Fashioned. If there are craft cocktails, I try the rum cocktails. How do you make rum not so tiki? How can you sophisticate it? I often ask for a rum Old-Fashioned. But I do love a tiki drink at Stowaway (in Tustin) called Papa’s Pog.”

For Olea, she has created the Cocktail Journal, a monthly libation with story card. “The concept came from the competitions,” Tantisalidchai says. “All competitions require an elaborate story behind your cocktail. Sometimes it helps create the cocktail, sometimes the cocktail inspires the story. Olea recently served a sensual Negroni called the Red Light Special. The color, the name, the flavors, all very seductive. We’ve also had cocktails inspired by ‘Game of Thrones’ and Newport Beach.” Tantisalidchai’s career path was not a straight one. Did her experience as a high school teacher drive her to drink? “Maybe a little bit,” she says with a laugh. “I was always in the industry—I bartended to pay my way through school. I taught government and world history at Huntington Beach High School for a year. Teaching was supposed to be my career! I bartended one night a week—I could go from being with high school students all day to getting to socialize with adults. It helped me to maintain my sanity.” photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

Pet peeve? A lot of guests call me Olga— they’re like, ‘Olga! Olga!’ Or they say ‘Hey!’ or snap their fingers to get my attention. That’s a big no-no.

She’s a rumrunner for Key West, Florida-based Papa’s Pilar Rum, owned by the son and grandson of writer Ernest Hemingway, the spirit used in Papa’s Pog. She’s also the mixology director for Marketeam, a marketing company with offices in Mission Viejo and Las Vegas. “I’ve consulted with Caesar’s Palace, the Wynn, Harrah’s, and filmed projects for Hennessy. … I come in whenever they revamp menus.” She credits Olea’s owners with making her many activities viable. “Every competition, every pursuit, the Cocktail Journal—to have 100-percent support is very rare in this industry. To do competitions, I have to take time off, sometimes super last minute. The owners push me to move forward and to grow. Also, Orange County is not recognized in these competitions—I enter either L.A. or San Diego. They hope, and I hope, that any recognition I get reflects back onto the restaurant and onto the county.” July 2022 • OR A NGE COAST 113

DINING GUIDE JU

LY 2 022

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

ALISO VIEJO OPAH Trendy and sleek, this neighborhood hottie oozes a hip energy that attracts single minglers and ’burban scene-hunters in search of artfully prepared California cuisine. Choose from a varied, creative menu with an array of signature items. Monster martinis keep the mood lively. 26851 Aliso Creek Road, 949-360-8822. $$

ANAHEIM BLUSKY RESTAURANT & BAR Gawk at the view from the 12-story rooftop digs, but know that Blusky’s Basque cuisine is what really makes this hotel restaurant Anaheim’s most interesting newcomer. Executive chef Edgar Beas is fresh off stints at Michelin-starred kitchens, applying mastery to a tight menu of Spanish dishes. Look for Iberico pork items, indulgent salt cod, and lobster paella. Late night, the place thumps with club action. Radisson Blu, 1601 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-4091458. Dinner only $$ CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR Dead center in Downtown Disney, Catal is the Patina Group’s nod to Spain’s Mediterranean cuisine. Expect an urbane spin on rustic fare such as lobster paella, making this one of the zone’s better spots for fine dining. Just outside, Uva Bar is an alfresco saloon with light eats and great peoplewatching. 1580 Disneyland Drive, 714-774-4442. $$$ MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Steaks—including the 24-ounce porterhouse and center-cut filet mignon—are wet-aged 23 to 25 days. Fill your plate with giant sides of broccoli and hash browns, but leave a little room: There’s chocolate cake for dessert. Killer bar-bite deals nightly from 4:30 to closing. 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., 714-621-0101. See South Coast Metro location. $$$

NAPA ROSE Wine country thrives at the Disneyland Resort by way of this classy dinner house— no park admission required. Star chef Andrew Sutton leads his crew in an exhibition kitchen, turning out imaginative, highly seasonal New American fare. The room mixes rustic with refined, and the notably wine-savvy waitstaff, many qualified as sommeliers, deftly tailors unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$ POPPY & SEED Chef-owner Michael Reed applies his versatile chops to a spirited, seasonal dinner menu of share plates and thoughtful proteins. Clever variations on of-the-moment produce are high points, as are premium steaks and duck dishes. The one-of-a-kind greenhouse garden setting is a calming contrast to neighbor Anaheim Packing House. Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$ 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 down-home 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 allnatural 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 spin-off menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

BRE A BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN One of North County’s best venues boasts advantages that are fairly rare in these parts: thoughtfully executed Italian cuisine, a cozy setting, and appealing prices. This sibling of neighbor Cha Cha’s does winning arancini, steamed mussels, house-made pappardelle, and a fine branzino. A notable happy hour features steep discounts on terrific appetizers and signature Italian cocktails. 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000. $$

OUR CRITERIA 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. 114 Ora nge C o ast • July 2022

CEDAR CREEK INN A gorgeous patio, welcoming lounge, and attractive dining room lend upscale charisma to this handsome eatery with an appealing menu that has something for everyone. Coffee-shop favorites get deluxe attention. Salads, sandwiches, and desserts are particularly strong. Dependably skilled service. 20 Pointe Drive, 714-255-5600. $$ CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This cool hang with a wraparound sidewalk patio is Birch Street Promenade’s most enduring dining success. Helmed by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni, the menu of modern Mexican fare is boosted by a wood-burning oven and new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole. Taco Tuesday is just one of many weekly specials. Impressive tequila menu. 110 W. Birch St., 714-255-1040. See Irvine location. $$ MACALL ANS PUBLIC HOUSE Chef Andrew Wang’s modern but comforting pub cooking is just one upgrade that’s helping this young venue finally catch on in North County. Topnotch whiskey offerings and a killer Irish breakfast on weekends also entice. Don’t miss the ridiculously authentic Irish coffee, or stop in for the very robust happy hour. The upscale vibe is a welcome switch from the usual timeworn pub conditions. 330 W. Birch St., 714-529-1224. $$ OLD BREA CHOP HOUSE North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a Tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service. Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with charcuterie platters. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714592-3122. $$$ TAPS FISH HOUSE & BREWERY Taps continues to be O.C.’s landmark pick for dining on a wide range of appealing seafood, pasta, steaks, and spunky New Orleans specialties that go down well with award-winning ales and lagers that change often. Happy hour is a big draw for value-seekers. Sunday brunch is a popular feast. 101 E. Imperial Highway, 714-257-0101. $$

CORONA DEL MAR 608 DAHLIA Chef-owner Jessica Roy transformed the alfresco gem inside iconic Sherman Library & Gardens with a new name and joyous take on seasonal fare. Dreamy salads are impeccably fresh, pastas imaginative, and vegetarian tacos are a signature dish in the making. Effusive wine cocktails. 2647 E. Coast Highway, 949220-7229. Lunch only. $$ THE BUNGALOW Comfy booths, a lively bar with stiff martinis, and lots of premium wines by the glass lure diners to this dinner house darling with the feel of a Craftsman home. Prime beef is king, but you also can get a huge Aussie lobster tail. Desserts are classic berries and cream, and chocolate souffle cake, so you can concentrate on your surf ’n’ turf. Lunch is hearty sandwiches and huge high-quality salads. Just save us a seat on the charming patio. 2441 E. Coast Highway, 949-673-6585. $$$

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

Seasonal vegetable risotto at 608 Dahlia 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, 949287-6600. $$$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ FIVE CROWNS O.C.’s beloved, vine-covered, fine-dining landmark of 1965 stays current thanks to a refreshed menu by executive chef Alejandra Padilla (formerly with Hillstone and Patina groups). Foodies thrill to foie gras brûlée and roast goose with wild grains, but 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. $$$

QUIET WOMAN Perpetually packed with locals for decades, the Q-Dub (as it’s known) pours mean drinks and notable wines by the glass, and keeps a teensy kitchen busy cranking out more-than-decent American grub such as filet mignon sliders and crab cakes, at prices that reflect the ZIP code. Most nights, a house band cranks up the decibels and enlivens the vibe. 3224 E. Coast Highway, 949-640-7440. $$ SIDEDOOR Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes come-asyou-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$

COSTA MESA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

2145 EATS Santa Ana native and Pizzeria Ortica veteran Eduardo Salcedo brings an artisan mindset and Japanese aesthetic to this Neapolitan-style pizza joint in a cleverly repurposed auto shop. Aromas of almond-wood fire whet the appetite for his finely crafted pies and imaginative toasts on house-baked shokupan, Japan’s beloved breakfast loaf. Sit at the white marble bar or under umbrellas on the patio to enjoy bresaola and burrata salad with pickled fennel, or hyper-tender octopus with diced potato, charred scallions, and squid ink mayo. Star dessert: horchata tiramisu. 2145 Placentia Ave., 949-873-5853. Beer and wine. $$ BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE Chef-owner Jeoffrey Offer—native of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Toulouse, France, and son of a 2022 butcher—brought his pandemic dream to life with this intimate spot focused on

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HOT NOW | FAST HOT POT

steaks, chops, and scratch sausages. Eight specialty sauces are house-made to suit meats and starters. Wood-grilled options range from a mighty fine burger to a grand aged ribeye for two. The tidy bar boasts a kitchen view, and the patio offers a quiet alternative to the lively hubbub of a packed house. Weekend brunch stars Offer’s distinct take on croque madame and steak and eggs. There’s also a succinct wine list. 3321 Hyland Ave., 714-714-0662. $$$ DESCANSO Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$

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Angus beef, fried tofu puffs, a variety of fish balls, wood-ear mushrooms, and fresh noodles from sweet potato to wide glass. Beef tendon and duck gizzard are only the start for more adventurous eaters. Patrons weigh the ingredients, choose among a half-dozen soup bases such as tom yum kung, Indian curry, and pickled cabbage, and specify spice level. The staff prepares the

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. $$$ IZAKAYA HACHI A handsome, modern izakaya from the owners of Manpuku, Hachi is a boisterous, convivial gem. The charcoal-grilled skewers shine, including the chicken meatball and chicken thigh. Expect a little bit of everything here: gloriously marbled beef, fresh oysters, composed salads, fried chicken, and

dish within minutes—hence the name Fast. The hot pot is $13 per pound, the typical serving a little more than a pound. Also on the menu: puff paratha pancakes; rice noodle dishes; a delightful coconut dessert; and Chinese bayberry juice. Animated projections the length of the restaurant transport as well. 2419 Park Ave., Tustin, 657720-1141—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

unique pressed sushi. 3033 Bristol St., 657-231-6566. Dinner only. $ L A CAVE Retro-hip, if unintentionally so, Eastside Costa Mesa’s ’60s Rat Pack lair of a joint has changed little more than the prices over these many years. Stiff drinks, thick steaks, and live music keep the leather booths full, one floor below ground via a tired elevator. This is the place to feed your craving for Sinatra and Elvis tribute acts. 1695 Irvine Ave., 949-646-7944. $$$ MESA At this high-style hipster hang with a retractable roof, expect shareable dishes that play by the seasons and don’t shy away from intense flavors. Highlights include mussels sizzled in cast iron and fried cicchetti olives. An interesting, value-packed wine

PHOTOGRAPH BY RON DE ANGELIS

ast Hot Pot specializes in Mala-Tang hot pot, a tonguetingling Sichuan street food. Mala-Tang translates to “spicy, numbing soup,” and its fieriness derives from Sichuan peppercorns and dried chiles. Diners at the new District at Tustin Legacy spot select from more than 80 ingredients including thinly shaved

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

ORANGE COAST’S TOP DOCTORS RECEPTION PRESENTED BY PIRCH In partnership with the Orange County Medical Association, Orange Coast held its annual Top Doctors Reception presented by Pirch. With the help of UCI Health and Union Bank, the Physicians of Excellence and their guests celebrated with an evening full of delicious tastings from some of the best restaurants in Orange County. Tastings provided by Sushi Roku, Puesto, Old Brea Chop House, Kitchen 1726, Khan Saab, Mint Restaurant, URBANA Mexican Gastronomy, 2145 Eats, Nirvana Specialties, Atomic Creamery, Populaire, Small Batch Doughnuts, and Patch Coffee. Visit orangecoast.com for party pictures. Congratulations to the 2022 Physicians of Excellence! Photo Credit: Ron Levy Photography

PA R T I E S

EVENTS

OPENINGS

DINING GUIDE list beckons, as do inspired artisan cocktails. 725 Baker St., 714-557-6700. $$$ OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with competing options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night. Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world over, and he regularly leads culinary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$ PITFIRE ARTISAN PIZZA The first O.C. shop from this thriving L.A.-based chain is not your nonna’s pizzeria. Upbeat and come-asyou-are casual, it’s a Cal-Ital original. A menu packed with classic and seasonal wood-fired pies, pastas, and salads has wide appeal, so this retooled Marie Callender’s stays packed with fans of all ages. Check out its backdoor speakeasy, Pie Society. 353 E. 17th St., 949-313-6333. $ PLUMS CAFE Fresh, high-quality cooking shaped by the Pacific Northwest lures locals to this strip-center lunch and weekend brunch favorite for creative eats such as smoked salmon hash and hazelnut flapjacks. 369 E. 17th St., 949-722-7586. Breakfast and lunch. $$ SOCIAL Social brought hipster dining to a scruffy westside strip mall, opening the area to considerable gentrification. The 118-seat retooled venue surprises with sophisticated cooking and a nicely refreshed menu, especially now that executive chef Jeffrey Boullt is back and managing two scratch kitchens. Yes, a second Social is open in Huntington Beach. New signature items include lamb empanadas, wagyu beef tri-tip, and all-new craft cocktails. Service is variable. 512 W. 19th St., 949-642-2425. Weekend brunch. Second location (not reviewed) in Huntington Beach at 21214 Beach Blvd. $$ TACO MARÍA Every dish is a marvel of deeply considered modern Cal-Mex cuisine from chef-owner and O.C. native Carlos Salgado, who parked his esteemed food truck enterprise for this site. Even the stripped-down setting draws all attention to the food. Dinners are four-course prix fixe affairs, with thoughtful wine pairings. Lunch—when the tacos appear—is a more laid-back and affordable way to sample the refined slant that snagged Salgado a Michelin star and several James Beard nominations for chef awards. 3313 Hyland Ave., 714-538-8444. Beer and wine. $$$

DANA POINT ENOSTEAK The coast’s most intimate salon for ultrapremium steaks is discreetly tucked just off the lobby at this esteemed resort. Beef—be it grass-fed, grain-fed, bone-in, or dry-aged—is the star of a pithy-if-pricey menu that’s unabashedly loyal. Lavish compound butters to enjoy alongside steaks are a house signature. Polished service and often enchanting desserts. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949240-2000. $$$ GLASSPAR Glasspar launched as a classic seafooder, oyster bar, and tap room. Veteran top toque and local Rob Wil118 Ora nge C o ast • July 2022

Shrimp tempura at Nova Kitchen & Bar

son 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. $$$ JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Big and welcoming, this 225-seat harborside venue is a utility player thanks to a broad menu of modern comfort fare. It’s a handy call for patio lunches, upbeat happy hours, hearty dinners, and bossy brunches. Locals swarm the upbeat space, noshing on mighty burgers, fried chicken, and prime rib. Desserts are fantastically huge, if ordinary. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-388-8900. $$ RAYA Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this posh-butrelaxed dining room conceived by celeb chef Richard Sandoval. After the eye-popping bluff-top ocean view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience. But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$ SALT CREEK GRILLE Rambling Craftsman architecture and a lovely terraced patio supply a handsome backdrop for mesquite-grilled chophouse favorites and comfort classics. The roomy lounge does a vigorous business when live music lures coastal partiers too chic for beach dives and too dignified for dance clubs. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, 949-661-7799. $$ WATERMAN’S HARBOR A beacon of new on Dana Point Harbor’s salt-worn embarcadero, this sleek seafooder offers two floors with scenic views of the breakwater action, including a big, breezy patio shaded from the sun’s rays on those high UV days. Fresh oysters are the star of happy hour at $10 for six. 34661 Golden Lantern St., 949-764-3474. $$$

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

FULLERTON THE CELL AR 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. $$$ EARLY BIRD Imaginative breakfasts washed down with in-season, single-origin coffee make this humble hang Fullerton’s sleeper for the foodie crowd. Look for duck confit hash, buckwheat flapjacks with ginger-citrus syrup, or trendy hits like buttermilk fried chicken and waffles, complete with house gravy. 1000 E. Bastanchury Road, 714-529-4100. Breakfast and lunch. $$

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

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. $$ KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN Born in the crucible of the pandemic, this halal bistro serves flavorful kebabs, curries, and street snacks alongside wood-fired wagyu steaks. Creator and executive chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in fine-dining kitchens. Khan Saab has the best-stocked alcohol-free bar in O.C. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$ SUMMIT HOUSE Set high above Fullerton’s northern city limits, this imposing Tudor manor house offers a sparkling citylights 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 special-occasion 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. $$$

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HUNTINGTON BE ACH BLUEGOLD Pacific City’s glassy, glossy 230-seat venue delivers the paint-box sunsets sought by tourists, datenighters, and special-occasion splurgers looking to dine with a dazzling view. Alas, Blackhouse Hospitality’s first O.C. effort tackles a disparate menu of American fare, from steaks to steam kettles to Nea-style pizza—even oysters and charcuterie. Local vet Tin Vuong oversees a promising kitchen that is sometimes over its head. Solid bets include pizzas, lamb meatballs, and duck confit Milanese. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0038. $$$ CUCINA ALESSÁ Despite the exit of its founding chef, this two-story trattoria maintains a solid following thanks to a veteran crew at ease with the original menu and recipes for house-made pastas, feather-light pizzas, and breakfast omelets. 520 Main St., 714-969-2148. See Newport Beach location. $$ DUKE’S Jammed on summer weekends, this pierside hangout is named for Hawaiian surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku. Grilled fish and steaks are fine for Saturday nights, but the kitchen excels at tasty fish tacos, macadamia nut hummus, and burgers with Kennebec chips. Monday’s happy hour is from 3 to 8 p.m. 317 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-6446. $$

250 Ogle Street • Costa Mesa 949.650.8463 • hitimewine.net

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DINING GUIDE FISH CAMP From Sam King of the King’s Fish House fleet comes this overtly dressed-down seafood cantina at the northern edge of coastal O.C. Order the day’s catch from the counter and await delivery of straightforward classics such as pristine oysters, ahi poke, Idaho trout, and crab galore. Sandwiches, skewers, and worthy clam chowders also recommended. 16600 Pacific Coast Highway, 562-592-2267. $$ HENRY’S COASTAL CUISINE This Surf City resort’s fine dining choice prevails with expertly executed fare that’s mostly familiar and gorgeously presented. Goat cheese fudge is a surprising outlier on a tight menu of classics, some worthy of special occasions—think lobster bisque and côte de boeuf for two. Polished service. Live music. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-8000. Dinner only. $$$$ LSXO Step back in time to colonial Vietnam at this vest-pocket hideaway with only 28 seats. Chef-owner Tin Vuong amplifies his successful L.A. Little Sister act with a sultry setting (tucked inside of huge Bluegold) and uncompromising Viet fare inspired by his roots and frequent travels to South Vietnam. Nifty craft cocktails and luxe dishes such as salt and pepper lobster make a good date night, but we also like the street-style noshes such as prawn crepes and lemongrass skewers. Fair warning: The uncensored rap soundtrack is not for all ears. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0083. $$ 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. Beer and wine. $$ SESSIONS Surf City is the ideal spot for the second “West Coast deli,” this time across from the sand. Terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two are gourmet creations, meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. From-scratch soups, sides, and dressings. A surfer ethos extends to hearty breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 414 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-594-3899. Beer and wine. See Irvine and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

IRVINE ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Irvine’s ever-slicker business zone is a good home for this classy, top-floor, New American choice for power diners, office pals, and couples. Modern craft cocktails enhance a menu that blends California ingredients with global flavors. Top toque Porfiro Gomez’s menu retains favorites such as the beef spring rolls, watermelon salad, and Duroc pork T-bone. Happy hour is a standout in a crowded field. 2607 Main St., 949-387-8887. $$ BISTANGO A longtime airport-area mainstay, Bistango has remained surprisingly contemporary, with cre-

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Brown butter roasted maitake mushrooms at Porch & Swing

ative dishes such as sweet, soulful garlic soup, and black truffle ravioli. It’s also a classy venue for live music, and its rotating art collection adds to the air of urban sophistication. 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949-752-5222. $$$ CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This addition to the restaurant family owned by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni is an inviting casa with a menu of modern Mexican fare boosted by commendable new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole to name a few. The indoor-meets-outdoor patio by designer Thomas Schoos is a fine upgrade of the Brea flagship. Weekly specials add value and excitement. Impressive tequila menu. 13126 Jamboree Road, 714-408-7819. See Brea location. $$ 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. $$ HABANA We waited 22 years for this glamorous Habana sibling, and it was worth it—a sprawling 300-seat compound that co-opts Cuba’s frozen-in-time splendor. A roomy patio open to the sky is made intimate by high walls and lots of beautiful props and vignettes, with alcoves dedicated to house pastries and coffees. Despite the impressive scale, the menu hews tightly to the focused offerings at its Costa Mesa original. 708 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-419-0100. See Costa Mesa location. $$$ JA JIAOZI 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 Beijing-style roast duck (whole, $77; half, $40), meticulously sliced into petals of tender meat crowned with crackling amber skin, for rolling into thin crepes. Weeks of aging, drying, and lacquering coax out heady flavors. Spicy values include dan dan noodles and country-style sliced pork. 15363 Culver Drive, 949-433-5686. Beer and wine. $$$ PORCH & SWING This delightful indie serves a “taste BEST NEW RESTAURANT of Charleston” starring original riffs 2021 on American classics and cocktails by Andrew Parish. Must-try dishes include roasted pork jowl over grits, amazing creamless creamed corn, and gorgeous salads. House-baked breads are a strength, too. The patio is lovely. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$ PUESTO San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options for O.C. fans. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oaxacan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from

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

are

9/3/03

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. $$ ROBATA WASA From the wizards behind popular Wasa sushi comes this sleek, authentic izakaya at the Spectrum, ideal for noshing Japanese comfort nibbles at lunch or after a movie, or tossing back sakes and brews. 926 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-536-5064. $$ 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 11:35 AM With Page 2 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. $$

TWO LEFT FORKS This inland sibling has the strong appeal of its now-closed original Dana Point location, except the coastal site has been swapped for a roomier space with easy parking, as well as lunch and weekend brunch service. Come here for bananas Foster pancakes or an open-face sandwich with burrata, prosciutto, avocado, and eggs your way. Popular for happy hour. 6511 Quail Hill Parkway, 949-3876700. $$$

LAGUNA BE ACH ALESSÁ BY CHEF PIROZZI This village center magnet for robust Italian fare by chef-owner Alessandro Pirozzi boasts a bar featuring primo versions of burrata, scamorza, and other cheese delights, as well as elite cured meats from Italy and up-and-coming domestic producers, all hand-sliced to order. 234 Forest Ave., 949497-8222. $$ BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate decamped Charlie Palmer to create this sexy urban bistro. Fans old and new keep the tight quarters humming to the backdrop of an open kitchen and vintage flicks playing on the flat-screen over the expansive bar. Santana’s dishes are opulent and intense. The wine list includes many notable half-bottles. 328 Glenneyre St., 949-715-8234. $$$

BRUSSELS BISTRO Loud and lively, this bistro brings a bit of Belgium to Orange County, with traditional beers on tap and an authentic menu. Stick with the tasty burger on rustic bread, or the mussels, served with the requisite frites. 222 Forest Ave., 949-376-7955. $$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Margarita’s sprawling shop, but both offer top-notch Cal-Mex fare. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, and Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Don’t miss costillitas—baby back ribs topped with fried onions. Outstanding margaritas. Warm, spiffy service. 217 Broadway St., 949-715-7829. See Rancho Santa Margarita location. $$ THE DRAKE The grown-ups sipping cocktails are here for a full serving of primo live music paired with the cuisine of Paul Gstrein (ex of Bistango and Bayside). Laguna’s own Alec Glasser prevails in creating a dashing joint where both the musicians and the kitchen have serious chops. Diners dig into Euro-inflected dishes (try the lamb lollipops, the Alpine melt, the chile-lime swordfish). Musicians dig the highbrow sound system, and the room generates a superlative groove. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-1000. $$$ DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN With its gorgeous seaside panorama, this place perfectly illustrates the food-versus-view gamble. Prudent choices on chef Rainer Schwarz’s seasonal menu include whole fried fish, an unusual entree pairing of butcher steak-pork belly, and tarts by

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DINING GUIDE pastry chef Rene Baez. Brunch items and craft cocktails also are good bets. 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, 949-715-7700. $$ HARLEY L AGUNA BEACH Refreshed to a comfy sheen, this landmark twostory tavern is unfussy and welcoming with vintage family photos on the wall, some featuring the chef’s Grandpa Harley. As ever, chef-owner Greg Daniels coaxes savoriness from goods sourced from small producers such as Gonestraw Farms in Riverside. Their eggs with bright-orange yolks become soft, jammy “deviled” eggs. Gonestraw chicken also stars in a lovely potpie with celery root, heirloom carrots, and the warm aura of curry. For dessert, downhome pecan pie and ice cream made with honey from Orange Park Acres’ own Backyard Bees. 370 Glenneyre St., 949-715-1530. Dinner only. $$$ L AS BRISAS Equal parts history, view, and food, Las Brisas (The Breezes) endures as a coastal landmark locals can’t resist for showing off the best view in Laguna Beach. Whether it’s for margaritas at sunset or a leisurely Sunday brunch, the veteran dining room team generally handles high-volume crowds with poise. Breakfast and even Sunday brunch are good values. The active patio bar fills to capacity in summer. 361 Cliff Drive, 949-497-5434. Reservations recommended. $$$ THE LOFT Part of the fun of dining at the posh Montage Laguna Beach is a spectacular ocean view, and this restful aerie delivers that view with style. The welledited menu features refined fare made from prime, seasonal goods with coastal flavors. Always leave room for nibbles from the inimitable cheese gallery boasting the area’s best selection of elite cheeses with from-scratch condiments. 30801 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-6420. $$$ 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. $$ MOZAMBIQUE The eclectic cuisine shows influences of South Africa. Peri-peri prawns, curries, and grilled meats are best bets. The wine list includes interesting selections from South Africa and New Zealand. 1740 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-7777. $$$ NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA & BIRRERIA This spot is all about pizza worship and emphatically Italian, right down to the Molino San Felice flour and the glossy red Stefano Ferrara wood-fire oven imported from Italy. These pies—bubbling hot in the middle with a puffy, spotted ring of crust— require a knife and fork. Don’t ignore the cadre of small plates that includes a terrific chopped salad and dandy meatballs the size of softballs. 31542 S. Coast Highway, 949-499-4531. Beer and wine. $$ NICK’S Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of tasty cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with modern twists. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened halibut sandwich. Softly lit and cushily appointed, the open-air space boasts a sidewalk patio. Sociable service is 122 Ora nge C oast • July 2022

Gorditas at Calo Kitchen + Tequila notably polished. 440 S. Coast Highway, 949-3768595. See San Clemente location. $$ OLIVER’S OSTERIA Wedged into an oddball canyon retail center, this tidy shop is chef-owner Erik De Marchi’s all-out defense of faithful fare inspired by his home turf of Italy’s Emilia-Romana region. Pastas are wondrous, but do wait to hear the daily specials that can include juicy lamb chops or crepes (crespelle) with porcini mushrooms in truffle-perfumed béchamel. Tight quarters make dining noisy when the room is full. And Oliver? He’s De Marchi’s first child, born on opening day. 853 Laguna Canyon Road, 949-715-0261. $$$ SAPPHIRE CELL AR CRAFT COOK The latest incarnation of Laguna Beach’s historic Coast Highway venue is much better than it has to be, given its bulletproof location. Upmarket, innovative American cuisine by executive chef Jared Cook includes irresistible weekend brunch waffles and Benedicts, classy lunch salads, and dinners that star fresh oysters and a splendid ribeye. On-site pantry for beach eats. 1200 South Coast Highway, 949-715-9888. $$$ SEL ANNE STEAK TAVERN Anaheim Ducks star Teemu Selanne cements his brand with this polished and popular steak joint on a venerated stretch of Coast Highway. Prime, pricey beef rules the day on executive chef Vince Terusa’s menu designed for a pro athlete’s appetite and fan base. We like the main floor’s easy, breezy tavern for terrific cocktails, the superlative burger, and world-class people watching. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$ SPL ASHES RESTAURANT Easily one of our coast’s top resort options for a surf’s-edge indulgence, this contemporary dining room and lounge are famed for pricey romantic meals and sunset drinks. Ron Fougeray is executive chef. A stunning Pacific view dazzles, as does Fougeray’s five-star résumé that includes a James Beard nomination. Expect seasonal, coastal fare. Ask for

lower-level patio seating and you might feel spray off the crashing waves. Surf & Sand Resort, 1555 S. Coast Highway, 888-281-3502. $$$ STARFISH Locals and escaped Montage resort guests slip in for seaside cuisine with an Asian inflection at this Coast Highway venue. The dusky digs and sexy ’tude make it a good stop for appetizers and craft cocktails. Ample free parking is a plus. 30832 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9200. $$$ 230 FOREST AVENUE Lagunatics and sightseers mingle at this lively openair cafe, where the martinis are as popular as the modern California cuisine. Noisy, cramped quarters are overlooked once the waiter brings your day boat scallops. Primo people-watching from the tables fronting one of the village’s busiest sidewalks. 230 Forest Ave., 949-494-2545. $$$

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

LAGUNA NIGUEL 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 impos-

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

ing marble bar. Vast patio with dazzling views. 32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220. $$$ CALO KITCHEN + TEQUIL A Chic and breezy as a Baja resort, this sprawling spot has its act together, luring local crowds for upscale Mexican classics. An unending flow of worthy margaritas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well-executed shrimp ceviche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchiladas. Huge portions, sharp service, and modern digs seal the deal. Scores of sipping tequilas delight agave fans. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949-409-7380. $$$ HENDRIX Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hendrix swaggers into Laguna Niguel with a place that promises something for everyone in this optionlean suburb. It’s from the group behind Laguna Beach’s The Deck and Driftwood Kitchen, and partner Austrian-born Rainer Schwarz is executive chef. A showpiece rotisserie roasts plump chickens, porchetta, and lamb while basting potatoes in the catch bin with juices from the meats. Irresistible small plates include prosciutto fritters, Brussels sprouts with marcona almonds, and chicken-fontina flatbread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$

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

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

LAKE FOREST BRÜ GRILL & MARKET Ambitious, with 245 seats, this suburban indie goes all-in for craft and microbrews, memorable cocktails, and pub food: a killer artisan sausage platter, Belgian-style mussels, and top-tier charcuterie. Entrees can be hit or miss, though the bone-in pork chop is a triumph. Drinks and brews (35 on tap) outshine the wine list. The on-site market retails wine, cheese, and other menu items. 23730 El Toro Road, 949-305-5757. $$

MISSION VIEJO DUBLIN 4 GASTROPUB Publicans Darren and Jean Coyle welcome a varied crowd to this chipper modern pub, designed to rival Dublin’s finest. Executive chef David Shofner applies fine-dining cred and scratch cooking to a menu of new and old-school fare that sparkles. Don’t-miss items include premium cottage pies, a killer lamb burger, and anything with house-cured meats. Upscale pricing and dapper surroundings prove this is not your frat brother’s Irish pub. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. $$$

43 YEARS

RESTAURANTS 17th Street Grill 714.730.0003 Belacan Grill

MALAYSIAN BISTRO

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WINEWORKS FOR EVERYONE This near-hidden pocket bistro is a top choice for wine-centric cuisine in South County. A retooled menu by chef David Shofner, who also helms the kitchen at Dublin 4 next door, brims with seasonal California fare that flatters a wine list of West Coast and international bottles. Must-haves include sausage flatbread, and a killer cheese plate. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. Beer and wine. $$$

N E W P ORT BE AC H A&O KITCHEN + BAR A serious reboot of this fabled lounge—formerly Duke’s—transforms this waterside venue into a gastropub with a newly youthful vibe. Expect all the usual share plates: battered fries, shishito peppers, bacon-wrapped dates, plus several hearty plates including a worthy Kobe burger with bacon mayo on a cheddar-bacon bun. Bold, neonautical decor plays off the “anchors and oceans” theme and brings the bay view to life. The water’s-edge patio is inviting for sunset drinks or gathering ’round the fire pit. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Highway, 949-630-4285. $$ BACK BAY BISTRO Though you won’t see ocean waves, waterfront seating on the quiet bay abounds at this relaxed venue inside the Newport Dunes Resort. A broad Euro-Cal menu keeps the resort crowd happy, while improved wines and slick details such as a retracting roof and valet parking lure the locals. 1131 Back Bay Drive, 949-999-3170. $$$

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DINING GUIDE BAYSIDE Classy Bayside remains a go-to choice on many fronts. Nightly happy hour stars a winning small-plates menu that keeps the bar hopping. Rotating artwork keeps the dining room ever fresh for relaxed meals of debonair American fare. Long favored by the coastal set for jazzy brunches, insiders stop in Friday night for a legendary jam session in the bar. Prix fixe menus are a strength here. 900 Bayside Drive, 949-721-1222. $$$ BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE

Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse cannoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite. Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. Coming soon, Nardone’s take on hip patio brunching. 1200 Bison Ave., 949-520-7191. $$$ BLUEWATER GRILL SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Classic rich chowder, grilled trout, and fried clams share the daily menu with modern dishes such as zesty cioppino and mahi-mahi sliders with jalapeno aioli. A seasoned crew smoothly shifts from icy platters of just-shucked oysters, to salt and pepper shrimp. The menu boasts seasonal specials as well. 630 Lido Park Drive, 949-675-3474. $$ 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. $$ THE CANNERY The 1921 landmark structure has dazzled diners for more than 50 years with its waterfront site, pristine seafood, and top chops. Executive chef Marcus Hagan keeps the menu relevant by adding new dishes, say baked Peruvian scallops, to classics such as the trusted lobster roll. Also check out The Snug, a cozy bar downstairs, carved from the main dining room. Dockside dining offered for boaters. 3010 Lafayette Road, 949-566-0060. $$$ CUCINA ALESSÁ Despite the exit of its founding chef, this trattoria maintains a solid following thanks to a veteran crew at ease with the original menu and recipes for house-made pastas, feather-light pizzas, and breakfast omelets. 6700 W. Coast Highway, 949-645-2148. See Huntington Beach location. $$ CUCINA ENOTECA Chef de cuisine Cesar Sarmiento helms the busy scratch kitchen of this Fashion Island sibling. The sprawling, lively space with its alluring garden room, hip cocktails, and fun wines supports inventive takes on classic pastas, cured meats, and creative breads. Like the Irvine location, this venue offers a retail wine boutique and lots of quirky-chic furnishings for sale. Daily happy hour is a deal for tony Fashion Island. 951 Newport Center Drive, 949-7061416. See Irvine location. $$

124 Ora nge C oast • July 2022

Profiteroles at Bouillon EDDIE V’S WILDFISH Wildfish lures a loyal following. The finely calibrated menu of pristine seafood and first-class steaks keeps the glossy room and fireplace patio hopping, especially for nightly happy hour deals when upscale locals crowd the sleek bar. Urbane service. Strong wine list. 1370 Bison Ave., 949-720-9925. $$$ FABLE & SPIRIT From the family behind Dublin 4 BEST NEW RESTAURANT comes this lush addition to the area 2020 across from Lido Marina Village. But don’t assume this is an Irish pub that mimics the other. This plush room features inventive fare that’s a mashup of American and Irish. Here you start with Hares Looking at You, a cocktail starring Wheatley vodka and carrot juice, move on to the refined beet agnolotti with chèvre foam, or share a woodfired duck confit pizetta. Yes, the fish and chips are superior, but so is the rabbit fricassee. 3441 Via Lido, 949-409-9913. $$$ 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 sand-floor 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. $$$ HARBORSIDE RESTAURANT One of O.C.’s most iconic landmarks, the 1906 Balboa Pavilion still lures visitors to its harbor view, and celebrants to its sweeping ballroom for special events and weddings galore. Expect a safe menu of all-American classics. Locals love that happy hour starts at 11:30 a.m. 400 Main St., 949-673-4633. $$ 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, 949474-0920. Locations (not reviewed) in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$ OLEA CELL AR CRAFT COOK Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offering from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood and Vine, a homegrown hospitality group. Fans of chef Jared Cook will recognize some familiar dishes from his sibling shops, but there are exclusives here, too. We’re mad for the opulent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarragon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, 949-2876807. Dinner only. $$$ PESCADOU BISTRO After three decades at its vintage location, this vestpocket bistro owned by Jacques and Olga de Quillien is as cozy and classically French as ever. The blackboard $40 prix fixe rules supreme, but you

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DINING GUIDE can also indulge in classics that would thrill Julia Child: braised rabbit, duck confit with frites, and luscious ratatouille. Seasoned servers keep the regulars content, so it’s no wonder that diners quietly keep this gem their secret. 3325 Newport Blvd., 949-6756990. Dinner only. $$ PIZZERIA MOZZA This is the O.C. outpost of the rustic, reverent Italian cuisine brought so smashingly to L.A. in 2006 by luminaries Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton, and Joe Bastianich. Picture-perfect pizzas with heady toppings, delightful antipasti, comforting al forno dishes, and A+ desserts attract eager crowds to this simple, boxy space. Local beers, Italian wines, and a full bar. Don’t miss the cauliflower fritti, caprese salad, and any pizza with pork. Butterscotch budino is a gold rush, too. 800 W. Coast Highway, 949-945-1126. $$$ SABATINO’S LIDO SHIPYARD SAUSAGE CO. Peter Sabatino used to deliver his mom’s sausages door to door in Chicago. Now customers come to him in Newport Beach, where he sells 300 to 400 pounds a day from his restaurant. The old-school Italian menu and comfy patio make it a relaxing spot for first dates or family dinners of pastas, seafood, and, of course, dishes loaded with his secretrecipe sausages. 251 Shipyard Way, 949-723-0621. Beer and wine. $$ SESSIONS This busy “West Coast deli” on the peninsula crafts terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two. Gourmet creations with kooky names are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. A surfer vibe extends to hearty breakfasts at 7 a.m. daily, starring Golden State Coffee Roaster coffee. 2823 Newport Blvd., 949-220-9001. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Irvine locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ SHOREBIRD Hidden inside the Vue Newport enclave, Shorebird is invisible until you enter the airy split-level space dominated by its waterfront view. Expect contemporary American fare plus familiar side detours for sushi and tacos. Best bets include Duroc pork chop, lump crab cakes, avocado fries. 2220 Newport Blvd., 949-287-6627. $$$ 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. $$$ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949720-0980. See Irvine location. $$ TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR David Wilhelm, the county’s restaurant laureate, returns to Newport Beach with this fetching and welcome rehab of a waterside venue. Menus read like a playlist of Wilhelm’s champion recipes tweaked for 2020. Standout new dishes for dinner 126 Ora nge C oast • July 2022

Balboa sushi roll at Shorebird and weekend brunch include red snapper Veracruzana, Buddha bowls, sirloin meatballs, and fried chicken with malted waffles. Look for a natty presunset happy hour on weekdays. 333 Bayside Drive, 949-673-8464. $$ TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT, BAR & STORE This local favorite strives to remain relevant. The coastal cuisine is well-executed, from a menu that keeps up with dishes such as seared scallop sliders, za’atar-crusted ahi tuna with Beluga lentils, and filet mignon flatbread. As always, drinks are inviting with a tropical theme; the mai tai is the best around. A super-sleek new patio is lighter, brighter, and bigger. This is a great place to meet for happy hour. 854 Avocado Ave., 949-760-8686. $$ TRUE FOOD KITCHEN Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory food pyramid is translated into a globally varied parade of healthful starters, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, with intriguing cocktails for good measure. Best (and quieter) seats are on the sleek, canopied patio with its lush living wall. 451 Newport Center Drive, 949-644-2400. $$ THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The snazzy venue overlooks the yacht and Duffy boat traffic in Newport Harbor, flaunting its waterfront charms with 180-degree views from two floors plus a cigar patio. The space sizzles with bonhomie— and diners who love their surf, turf, wine, and VIP treatment. Expect cosseting service from partners JC Clow, William Lewis, and executive chef Yvon Goetz. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 3131 W. Coast Highway, 949-999-6622. See Tustin location. $$$

NE WPORT COAST THE BEACHCOMBER The surf’s-edge view might be better than the food, but the drinks and eats are good enough to keep this iconic spot packed with beachgoers, especially in

summer. Stick with basics such as grilled artichokes, lobster club, and stuffed salmon. Executive chef Carlos Olivera oversees the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that change slightly each season. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$ BLUEFIN Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gorgeous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The setting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Superior sake selection. 7952 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 949-715-7373. $$$ MARCHÉ MODERNE The finest French bistro south of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs 2018 that express a fresh chapter for the redoubtable Florent and Amelia Marneau. Added space and oversize windows let the outdoors into a room that oozes grace and sophistication. Beloved dishes such as Spanish octopus with chorizo return to the dinner menu alongside new creations from the open kitchen—think crispy suckling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only. 7862 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 714-434-7900. $$$ MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB O.C.’s flashiest hipsters gather here to be nursed like they’re bleeding cash. And they are. Megamartinis, obese lobsters, and Bible-thick steaks don’t come cheap, but this dramatic setting does offer the ocean view and suave service worthy of its position as our finest castle of cholesterol consumption. Thursdays are famed for singles action that approaches tournament level. 8112 E. Coast Highway, 949-376-6990. See South Coast Metro location. $$$ 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,

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

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DINING GUIDE and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511. Beer and wine. $$ ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST This attractive shopping center offshoot of the popular original Zov’s in Tustin is a go-to patio cafe that lures locals with creative Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin location. $$$

ORANGE BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a Southern accent. Look for Parmesan-crusted meatloaf, gulf shrimp and grits, and a yowza burger. The service is sharp. Sunday brunch and a robust midweek happy hour. 118 W. Chapman Ave., 714-716-1599. $$ HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR A serious contender in the gastropub category, this popular storefront in Old Towne lures a mixed crowd of brew fanatics and foodies, thanks to a rich roster of esoteric suds and polished pub grub from chef Craig Brady. Dishes such as a braised lamb pappardelle and coriander roasted baby carrots. Lunch and early dinner are options for bypassing the deafening din that rises with the crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680. $$ THE HOBBIT Gustatory delights worthy of Gatsby attract diners on special occasions to this gracious hacienda, where dinners are seven-course pageants that start with bubbly and nibbles in the wine cellar, and end hours later on the cigar patio. Each night’s menu is set weeks in advance—and so are most reservations. 2932 E. Chapman Ave., 714-997-1972. Reservations required. $$$

PLACENTIA EL FAROLITO Often packed tighter than a taquito, this is a go-to favorite for traditional border fare, served fast and friendly. Pass the wait with an icy Negra Modelo— regulars know to grab one from the cooler out front. Huevos dishes—rancheros, machaca, chorizo—are popular on weekend mornings, and served until 3 p.m. 201 S. Bradford Ave., 714-993-7880. $ FISH IN A BOTTLE Sleepy Placentia gets some modern chow at this maverick mom-and-pop cafe that supplements California cuisine with elaborate, innovative sushi rolls. If a Tuscan roll with grilled veggies and balsamic reduction doesn’t intrigue, go traditional with the soft-shell crabs with crispy tomato, or seared ahi with squash-seed crust. The casual cafe has a sushi bar for purists. 1205 E. Imperial Highway, 714528-4000. Beer, wine, and sake. $$

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN & BAR Lakeside seats, terrific craft cocktails, and daring fare by young chef Karl Pfleider earn local love for this rare gastro-canteen in Rancho

128 Ora nge C o ast • July 2022

Duck chilaquiles at Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar Santa Margarita. Midweek tapas start at 3 p.m. with goodies such as steak tartare with pistachio XO sauce. But wait until 5 p.m. for the mahi-mahi with paprika mole. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949888-0072. Second location (not reviewed) in Yorba Linda, 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2593. $$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN This lakefront sprawler offers top-notch Cal-Mex fare from the culinary vision of owner Clemente Heredia Jr., a third-generation operator. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Outstanding margaritas. Warm, spiffy service. 31441 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949-709-7600. See Laguna Beach location. $$

SAN CLEMENTE BRICK The menu of authentic, seasonal cuisine says Italy, but the unfussy setting and beach-casual regulars make for a solid California vibe at this trattoria by chef-owner David Pratt. Thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired Valoriani oven are composed with care, but don’t miss the house-made pastas and seasonal salads. Amazing meatballs, too. 216 N. El Camino Real, 949-429-1199. $$ IVA LEE’S Deep South and down-home despite the modern exterior, the Southern-Creole eats here are designed to help diners relax and let the good times roll. 555 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2855. Dinner only. $$$ MRK PUBLIC Three chefs, two of them former co-chefs at Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach, transform a fast-casual fixture into a winning spot that offers craft beers, all $5, and a tightly edited menu of elevated favorites, notably Tuscan toast, and a terrific fried chicken sandwich. The rear counter offers a distant ocean view. 1402 S. El Camino Real, 949-441-7621. Beer and wine. $ NICK’S On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure

grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact allday menu of comfort classics with a modern twist. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened fish sandwich. And there’s a sidewalk patio with fireplace. Sociable service is notably polished. 213 Avenida del Mar, 949-481-2200. See Laguna Beach location. $$ SOUTH OF NICK’S From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the reception station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110 N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location (not reviewed) in Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$ VINE A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new heights, because owner Russ Bendel Jr. wisely gives sauce monster and executive chef Jared Cook full reign over the kitchen. Look for killer duck wings and nightly specials that tend to sell out. A garden out back only sweetens this beach burg gem. 211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079. Dinner only. $$$

SAN JUAN C APISTRANO L’HIRONDELLE This pudgy, white adobe in the mission’s shadow charms with home cooking of the French-Belgian sort. The snug room has a cozy aura for chilly nights; the flowery patio suits the cuisine. 31631 Camino Capistrano, 949-661-0425. Beer and wine. $$ 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

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

cocktails. Do try fried eggplant, lamb meatballs, and shareable dips. By day, look for indulgent brunch dishes. 31761 Camino Capistrano, 949-218-5140. $$$ PUBLIC 74 This county-line gastropub radiates a welcoming vibe that attracts customers of all types to its fauxramshackle chic, second-story venue. Craft brews, booze, and decidedly eclectic eats change often, as executive chef Gerry Kent keeps the smallish menu seasonal. Definitely consider the two-handed Reuben, and there’s a seasonal monster burger. 27211 Ortega Highway, 949-481-2723. $$ RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ A sweet adobe hiding in the historic Los Rios district, Ramos House Café turns out some of South County’s most delectable daytime fare. Contemporary and clever American breakfasts and lunches (brunch on weekends) have a distinct Southern accent that fits the rustic, alfresco setting with passing trains as soundtrack. Look for ethereal biscuits and crab hash. And don’t miss the killer bloody mary. 31752 Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$

SANTA ANA [

Orange Coast Magazine - July 2022

Articles inside

DINING GUIDE Many of our

FOOD TRENDS New restaurants that identify with a single type of alcohol

PERSON OF INTEREST

MAIN COURSE Outpost Kitchen’s second location bustles at brunch.

ON THE MARKET An oceanfront home in San Clemente with views of fireworks, plus a conversation with the executive director of Casa Romantica

PEOPLE & PLACES

FINDS

PERFECT GETAWAY

FOOD & DRINK Blueberry pancakes from Outpost Kitchen in Costa Mesa

CULTUREPHILE Cal State Fullerton alumna brings 1960s soul and pop to O.C.

HOT SHOP

STYLE & HOME Original paintings by a Laguna Beach resident