Orange Coast magazine - August 2021

NEW FACE OF SCIENCE

Star teacher comes to UC Irvine

BACK AT DISNEYLAND

Magic remains, restrictions or not

A U G U S T 2021 TH

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CITY OF HOPE’S PROMISE TO OC CANCER PATIENTS: WHEN WE TAKE YOUR HAND, WE NEVER LET GO

“Powerful science and compassionate care made City of Hope my clear choice for cancer treatment.”

CHUCK GUSTAFSON Chuck Gustafson is a goal setter. The North Tustin resident has climbed Mt. Whitney twice and competed in 100-mile century bike rides. Now, the self-described “family guy” is counting on City of Hope Newport Beach to help him achieve a new goal: being there to see his three grown children have kids of their own.

Chuck was diagnosed with lymphoma in late 2019 after a routine colonoscopy.

He soon realized he needed a specialist in his type of cancer.

Tanya Siddiqi, M.D.

DISCOVER WORLD-CLASS CANCER CARE AT CITY OF HOPE NEWPORT BEACH. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. (949) 763-2204.

“I was looking for the expertise of a cancer center, like City of Hope, that has an unmatched reputation for highly-specialized care and pioneering research,” Chuck said. “City of Hope gives me the confidence that comes from knowing I have a renowned cancer institution by my side that I and my family can trust to get me where I want to be.”

In January 2020, Chuck met with Tanya Siddiqi, M.D., a leading expert

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in lymphoma and other blood cancers at City of Hope Newport Beach, who developed a blueprint for his treatment.

“We personalize every patient’s therapy to integrate their goals, their health status, and our breakthroughs in cancer research and treatment,” Siddiqi said. “It is one of City of Hope’s guiding principles that we treat the whole person.”

Chuck had promising results from a first round of immunotherapy that summer and is preparing to embark on a second round of therapy.

He appreciates that City of Hope Newport Beach brings world-class cancer care close to home.

“It is so convenient to get to City of Hope Newport Beach. I appreciate not having to travel far for treatment. To have a great physician and a convenient place for state-of-the-art cancer care…that was the clincher for me.”

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Discover safe and expert care at City of Hope Newport Beach.

CityofHope.org/OC or (949) 763-2204

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AUGUST 80

ICE CREAM!

96

THE FACE OF SCIENCE

We’ve got the scoop on Orange County’s new wave of artisan creameries and a few of the mastermind duos behind them, plus wacky toppings and creative mashups.

“I’m working hard to change the narrative, and I’m having a lot of fun doing it.”

—RAVEN BAXTER, DIRECTOR OF DIVERSIT Y INITIATIVES AT UC IRVINE SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

Award-winning science communicator Raven Baxter, known as Dr. Raven the Science Maven, joins UC Irvine as the new director of diversity initiatives at the School of Biological Sciences.

BY ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN

98

GOODWILL’S BILLION-DOLL AR BUSINESS

The nonprofit’s shopping site, launched in O.C., passes a big milestone.

BY L AURA SAARI

O N T HE COV ER

Atomic Creamery photograph by Emily J. Davis

10 O RA NGE C O AST • August 2021

photograph by Y V E S -R I C H A R D B L A N C

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AUGUST 65

16 23

EDITOR’S LET TER PEOPLE & PL ACES Ruins of the Dana Point Inn

24

’HOODS Two new restaurants and a bakery join a popular salon in San Juan Capistrano.

26

PERFECT G E TAWAY Discover plenty of new luxuries in Sonoma’s wine country this year.

30

S TAT S Casa Romantica exhibit juxtaposes plastics and pollinators.

32

C U LT U R E P H I L E UC Irvine MFA alum’s debut novel, “City of A Thousand Gates”

34

O.C . E VENT S Beyond Van Gogh, summer concerts, and more

12 ORA NGE CO A ST • August 2021

41

ST YLE & HOME Colorful girls’ dresses from Anaheim-based Elisamama

42

HOT SHOP Santa Ana-based boutique features vintage clothing and accessories

44

FINDS Lighten up the season with this pink hue.

46

ON THE MARKET A Laguna Hills property with a handsome office

48

AT H O M E W I T H . . .

Penelope Pots in Newport Beach

65

FOOD & DRINK Anaheim resort district adds a Basque eatery with Blu SkyBar.

70

5 QUESTIONS WITH ...

O.C. native and cellarman Dalana Lewis

72

FOOD TRENDS A growing number of high-end tequila producers have bases here.

76

MY O.C .

Even new rules for a post-pandemic park couldn’t dim the magic at Disneyland.

78

EXCURSIONS This month’s butterfly festival at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano

124

DINING GUIDE Many of our 200-plus restaurant reviews

136

PERSON OF INTEREST Owners of Odin Parker, a wooden toy company in Rancho Mission Viejo

136 WEB EXT R A S

John Parker, executive chef at Toast Kitchen & Bakery in Costa Mesa, joins Cathy Thomas to prepare a luscious green soba noodle salad with peanutjalapeno dressing. orangecoast.com /cathythomas A chat with the creative director of Beyond Van Gogh, Mathieu St-Arnaud orangecoast.com Join us this month at our annual Best Of celebration. orangecoast.com /bestof2021

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

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F B A R N D I VA

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14 Ora nge C o a st • August 2021

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EDITOR’S LETTER

I

’ve been reading “The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living” before I go to sleep. Hygge, the Danish word for feeling cozy and content, was everywhere in the U.S. four or five years ago. As the author explains, hygge focuses on comfort, warmth, and togetherness.

Ways to achieve it? Candles, good lighting, small groups of friends, and sweets!

I think ice cream can elicit some of the same feelings of joy and nostalgia (Page 80). We’re in the heart of summer, people are savoring the company of friends and family, and it’s time to indulge. Maybe we put aside healthy eating for an afternoon to be in the moment—have a big scoop of rocky road and laugh with those we love. We certainly deserve to relish the small things again this year. Two people I know have epitomized the “Carpe Diem” feeling I seek.

My yoga instructor decreed this “The Summer of Jessica,” which I love. Saying yes, being open to whatever strikes your fancy at the time, and planning for self-care in whatever form it takes are marvelous ways to live.

Another anecdote gripping me involves a former colleague. A charming, funny, dedicated sportswriter I worked with more than a decade ago, who’s now in his 40s, suffered a major stroke in mid-May. He had no brain activity for days and was hours from being taken off life support when nurses noticed fluttering eye movement. Apparently, he wasn’t ready to go yet. Five weeks later, he’s gradually speaking more, moving his arms and legs, and generally improving every day. It’s the Hollywood ending he absolutely deserves, and it has brought a large community of friends, well-wishers, and ex-coworkers together to root for him.

It all makes me want to seize the day, and have that extra scoop!

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 A trip to Healdsburg and all its delights is the perfect reward after a year of lost travel.

PA G E 26

16 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

So glad to see the blush trend is back, as I never stopped wearing it.

PA G E 44

The allure of Disneyland entices a writer to pull out all the stops to get in during limited-capacity days.

Shopping at Goodwill Orange County’s online store rewards your spirit and your closet.

PA G E 98

PA G E 76

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

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18 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

SOUTHEAST Whitney Dick, wdick@atlantamagazine.com

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THE GARLAND HOTEL Step into the 1970s and leave your stress behind! Hidden just over the Hollywood Hills on the edge of The Valley, The Garland awaits as your carefree oasis and gateway to L.A. From the custom macramé to the eclectic collection of art to the laid-back, friendly staff, you’ll feel like you’ve entered the home of a friend who curated every detail to be reminiscent of the golden days of Laurel Canyon.

2 L A M AG . C O M

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The Garland is a retro-chic boutique hotel tucked away on seven tree-shaded acres between Studio City and North Hollywood.

Built in 1970 by actress Beverly Garland and her husband, Fillmore Crank, The Garland is central to the city — located only minutes away from Universal Studios Hollywood, Warner Bros, and the Hollywood Bowl — providing easy access to all of the attractions L.A. has to offer. Tastefully renovated and reimagined in recent years, the hotel offers the casual comforts of home with a welcoming vibe and modern amenities.

Accompanying the hotel is The Front Yard, a thoughtfully crafted and artfully designed dining experience inspired by the colorful food culture of L.A. Sit back under the sycamores on their oversized patio and enjoy a colorful (and very Instagram-able) menu under strings of twinkle lights. On the weekends, The Front Yard offers an elevated brunch experience — think homemade PopTarts and pitchers of their signature mimosa — that will leave you with sweet memories and have you coming back again and again.

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SOMETHING SPECIAL IS COMING

SOMEONE SPECIAL IS COMING • GOOD TIMES • morongocasinoresort.com

PEOPLE

PLACES

IN PL AIN SIGHT  T H E S C E N E The only remains of the Dana Point Inn, a project that never finished construction because of the Great Depression  E X P L O R E R C R E D I T Tanya Chellani @chillani_  W H E R E Find the arches along Dana Point Bluff Top Trail.  B E H I N D T H E S H O T “I originally wanted to visit the location due to the beautiful scenery of the harbor and the gorgeous flowers along the pathway (which I used to frame the photo),” Chellani says. “Knowing these concrete arches are the remains of the Dana Point Inn is so fascinating as well. I think it’s so important for architecture to be preserved, as it is a reminder of the past.”

33°27'49.0"N 117°42'03.8"W

August 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 23

PEOPLE

PLACES ’ H O O D S

SOUTH OF THE MISSION Two new restaurants and a bakery join a popular salon in this area of SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO. by Robin Jones

Ú G O O D TO KN OW

At Parmiss Restaurant, enjoy classic PersianMediterranean dishes, wine, and cocktails along with live music on weekends.

This Persian-Mediterranean restaurant, which opened in April, offers the kind of appetizers—hummus, marinated olives, baba ghanoush, and falafel—that are perfect for sharing. Order a few and enjoy them on the umbrella-shaded patio, along with beef, chicken, or salmon kebobs and traditional stews like ghormeh sabzi: red beans, braised beef, fresh herbs, and dried lime served with saffron rice. 31952 CAMINO CAPISTRANO, 949-503-1249

24 ORA NGE CO AST • August 2021

IL S O LE CU CIN A The second location of a popular Rancho Santa Margarita spot, this restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes such as bruschetta and housemade meatballs, as well as a few fun surprises, including fig and goat cheese ravioli in a brown-butter sage sauce.

Much of the pasta is made in-house, such as the gnocchi with pomodoro sauce and the ravioli with Bolognese. The classic pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven. 31115 RANCHO VIEJO ROAD, 949-276-8040

B U D D E R ’ S B A KE D G O O DS

B RU S H S A LO N

Decadent cookies made the bakery a favorite at local farmers markets. Owner Kat Spoon opened this spot where her sweet-toothed devotees can pick up orders they’ve placed online or over the phone.

Chocolate cookies stuffed with cookie butter, s’mores cookies loaded with marshmallows, and Nutella-filled chocolate chip cookies are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside. 31874

With its exposed brick walls, big picture windows, and dramatic chandelier over the reception desk, this salon feels classic and modern at once. Known for its experienced stylists and friendly service, it has been named one of the best salons in the city by several publications. Specialties include balayage, blonding, Keratin straightening, special-occasion makeup and hairstyling, and hair extensions. 31770 CAMINO

DEL OBISPO ST., 949-409-5188

CAPISTRANO, 949-496-8800

PHOTOGRAPH BY MELICKASTUDIO

PA RMI S S R E S TAU R A NT

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PEOPLE

PLACES

P E R F E C T

G E T A W A Y

H E A LD S B U RG

Dive headfirst into Sonoma’s wine country this year. by Alan Gibbons

26 O RA NGE CO A ST • August 2021

H O M E T O W N F L AV O R

Sonoma County-born brothers opened Valette in 2015, featuring sophisticated and surprising food in a small-town, friendly atmosphere. Artistic presentation astonishes, from the Hawaiian ahi, poke style with kombu emulsion and crispy nori ($17), to scallops en croûte with squid ink in the pastry and Champagnecaviar beurre blanc ($21). Put yourself in chef Dustin Valette’s very capable hands with the “trust me” tasting menu ($18 per course, five-course minimum).

The spot just off the plaza is the exact place where the brothers’ great-grandfather ran bakeries.

G O U R M E T PA I R I N G S

Comstock Wines, a boutique winery featuring world-class products, offers a relaxed setting with a wonderfully thoughtful staff. Treat yourself to the to-die-for wine and wood-fired pairing ($75 per person). Chef Jude Affronti creates dishes such as a Thai chicken skewer with peach chutney to accompany the award-winning Viognier, and house-made sausage with summer squash and cherry gastrique to highlight flavors from the 2017 pinot noir.

ABOVE Relax and overlook the vines at Comstock Wines during a tasting.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF COMSTOCK WINES

T

he perfect launch point for a jaunt through Sonoma County, Healdsburg displays a quaint, charming energy with several new ventures rejuvenating things this summer. The Matheson restaurant, a highly anticipated concept from popular chef Dustin Valette, takes over a historic building. Marine Layer Wines opens an airy, modern tasting room right on the plaza. The owners of Michelin three-star honoree SingleThread will open plant-based eatery Little Saint. All this attention means you’ll need reservations for most tastings and a solid plan to eat, sleep, drink, and play your way around. Best bets?

Wednesdays and Thursdays.

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

@orangecoastmag More info: orangecoast.com

PEOPLE

PLACES T I P

F R O M

A

L O C A L

“On Sundays, I’ve just sat and listened to phenomenal artists (on the plaza). They bring people in (to perform) on Tuesday evenings. It’s usually so packed you can’t find a seat. Duke’s on the plaza has great cocktails, and they do side music and happy hour.”

—TRACY FABRO BIDIA, LONGTIME SONOMA COUNT Y RESIDENT

A five-taste flight is available in classic or zinfandel varietals ($30 per person); on Sundays, go for the wine and grilled cheese flight ($75 per person).

CENTRAL DIGS

Eliminate driving and still be in the middle of the action at Hotel Healdsburg, where you’ll stay in modern, spacious rooms ($489 and up) with comfy upholstered chairs, garden or plaza views, and oversize bathrooms. Hearty breakfast is complimentary, as are bike rentals to sightsee on two wheels.

The garden pool and spa provide excuses to stay in and rejuvenate. Down the street you’ll find partner property h2hotel, LEED certified for its sustainable practices. The rooms here are simple with sleek lines ($339 and up).

P I C N I C TA S T I N G

Family-owned Dry Creek Vineyard, celebrating its 50th anniversary next year, was founded by David Stare, who defied local advice and planted what he wanted— M AR K YOU R C ALE NDAR

sauvignon blanc. Next to the ivy-covered building is a large grassy area with plenty of shade where pets are welcome. Bring your own picnic supplies from historic Oakville Grocery with plenty of gourmet options that will pair beautifully with the tasting at Dry Creek ($25 per person).

T O TA L I N D U L G E N C E

When it’s time for pampering, Farmhouse Inn is the place. With a Michelin-starred restaurant on the property—about 20 minutes from Healdsburg—the inn specializes in luxurious details. Upon arrival, choose a complimentary sample from a display of locally made bath salts and soaps for use in deep, jetted bathtubs. Doublesided fireplaces, heated bathroom floors, nightly wine tastings near outdoor swing beds, and s’mores by the fire pits are a few of the surprises that await. The inn celebrates its 20-year anniversary with a package including a bottle of wine, credits for the spa and farmstand, and more ($825 per night).

THE WHOLE BARN

Fun neon signs on the rustic barn alert you to the intrigue behind the iron gates at Barndiva. Have lunch or dinner in the garden setting with lights hanging from large trees and the sound of water features. Don’t dare miss the goat cheese croquettes with lavender honey ($10). Innovative cocktails abound here. Fit in with the locals in your comfortable shoes, as heels can be treacherous in the grass.

F R E N C H I N S P I R AT I O N

For Parisian flavor in Healdsburg, start with a visit to Costeaux French Bakery. Indulge in pain perdu made with cinnamon walnut bread ($14) or the popular deep-dish quiche ($14). Continue the theme with a visit to Jordan Winery and Vineyard, which provides several tasting options in a formal setting with an old-world vibe. Try the library tasting with four wines and small plates ($45 per person) or Paris on the Terrace, a bistro lunch with pairings ($110 per person) through this month.

Aug. 28: Santa Rosa Beer Fest. Craft brews, a beer garden, music, food, and games await at this event tied to Marathon Weekends. Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa, santarosabeerfest.com

Created by Icon Fair from the Noun Project

28 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F VA L E T T E A N D FA R M H O U S E I N N

LEFT The food at Valette is as beautifully presented as it is delicious.

RIGHT Rooms and suites at Farmhouse Inn provide luxurious tranquility.

A LIFE WELL LIVED. A LIFE WELL EARNED. Since 1998, Belmont Village has safely delivered an unparalleled senior living experience for thousands of families. Collaborations with experts from the nation’s top healthcare institutions and universities, including UCLA and USC, have established our national leadership in demonstrably effective cognitive health and wellness programs. Combining the highest levels of hospitality and care, our communities make life worth living.

Learn more at BelmontVillage.com/LosAngeles

The Community Built for Life.® Medication management with licensed nurse on-site 24/7 | Circle of Friends® award-winning memory care Dedicated Alzheimer’s care | Physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness | Nationally-recognized, highly trained staff

©2021 Belmont Village, L.P. | RCFE 306005563, 197608468, 197608466, 197608467, 198601646, 565802433, 197608291, 197609518

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S T A T S

F O R C E S O F N AT U R E New Casa Romantica exhibit juxtaposes plastics and pollinators. by Soleil Easton

10

days it took to create and install the exhibit

30 ORA NGE CO AST • August 2021

83

volunteers who helped the artist

waste stream materials such as plastic bottles, grocery bags, wire clothing hangers, and tissue paper. Each room will contain giant mobiles that swirl around guests. Visitors are encouraged to touch pieces and immerse themselves in the atmosphere. “The intention is to celebrate the importance of pollinators in our lives and on Earth,” Lutter-Gardella says.

“My work celebrates beauty, fragility, and vulnerability.”

231

POUNDS average American’s yearly plastic consumption

200+

number of pollinators on view between both rooms

300

number of plastic bottles repurposed

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CASA ROMANTICA

T

he San Clemente nonprofit cultural center commissioned artist Christopher LutterGardella to create a site-specific interactive installation, “Magic in the Air,” on view now through Sept. 4. The installation—which highlights human plastic consumption as well as the importance of pollinators— features bees, butterflies, and ladybugs crafted from upcycled

A D VER TISEMEN T

According to Dr. Clarke, 40 percent of the general population will experience chronic pain during their lifetime.

“I see this as a promising treatment for so many conditions, including slipped discs, pinched nerves, fibromyalgia, and a host of chronic pain disorders,” says Dr. Clarke. “It has the capability to tap into the feedback loop in the nerve, unlocking the door to a pain-free life. Best of all, this new medical technology doesn’t impair cognitive function the way long term use of pain medication does. This is the alternative we have been looking for.”

Teryn Clarke, MD and Ivar E. Roth, DPM/MPH

NEWPORT BEACH DOCTOR DISCOVERS A MEDICAL ADVANCE FOR CURING CHRONIC PAIN

PAINCUR™

The pain in Jeff Goffman’s injured thumb was so debilitating, he had planned to have surgery.

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

These patients and many more are no longer feeling discomfort thanks to a newly developed treatment administered by Dr. Ivar Roth, Hoag Hospital’s highly accredited Founding Chairman of Podiatric Surgery.

The treatment, trademarked as PAINCUR™ entails several injections of an FDA approved drug into the exactly pinpointed base of the nerve. Alleviation of pain is almost immediate and long lasting or permanent, according to patient testimonials.

Part acupuncture, derived from wisdom of the ages, part state-of-the-art medical technology, using an advanced drug, and part intuitive medical knowledge, derived from Dr. Roth’s vast experience and expertise in his specialty field, this new treatment is viewed as a revolutionary and long awaited alternative to other forms of pain mitigation that can be addictive, invasive or cause unwanted side effects.

Dr. Roth explains the methodology of this newly developed protocol, saying, “There is a neurological connection that exists between the foot and other parts of the body, including the knee, hip, back and sciatic region. The same neurological connection also exists between the hand and upper body parts. By applying treatment to the nerve endings in the hand, we have been able to remediate pain in the shoulders, neck and even the hand itself."

Jeff Goffman, a recent patient, claims his chronic thumb pain was remediated immediately upon treatment. “I tried everything, including PRP, months of rehab, and consultations with an orthopedic surgeon. The pain was so debilitating, I was ready to try surgery,” he says.

“After the first treatment, it was like the pain had never even existed.”

“My pain was so severe that I could not sit for more than a few minutes,” says Manrow, who, after treatment, got much welcome relief from his debilitating discomfort. “The improvement of my condition is remarkable.”

With the efficacy of the treatment proven over and over again, Dr. Roth reached out to his trusted colleague and respected Newport Beach neurologist, Dr. Teryn Clarke, who immediately recognized the value of this protocol and has since joined Dr. Roth to administer this effective method of pain alleviation to her patients.

DR. IVAR ROTH

So far, 100 percent of Dr. Roth’s patients claimed to have their pain significantly diminished or totally remediated after completion of the PAINCUR™ protocol. “I knew this had the potential to cure pain but even I was surprised that it has been successful on every single patient I have injected,” says Dr. Roth, whose office staff has extensively interviewed each patient to determine the treatment’s efficacy.

Relieving pain with the PAINCUR™ method is the first step of treatment for many of Dr. Roth’s patients. A very important aspect of this treatment is to also take care of the underlying cause of pain, according to Dr. Roth.

“Foot, leg, knee, hip and back pain is typically rooted in improper function of the foot,” explains Dr. Roth, who has developed a unique orthotic to correct the gait and improve posture.

“When the foot positioning is corrected, the hip sinks back into its socket and the back straightens out. This restored alignment remediates the stress that otherwise inflicts the foot, joints, leg and back.

As a foot specialist I have worked with so many patients seeking to restore the quality of life that comes with pain free mobility. Being able to offer a revolutionary and highly sophisticated treatment option that works is truly gratifying.”

If you are suffering from pain call Dr. Roth’s office to schedule a free consultation and complimentary initial first test shot.

Patient testimonials available to view on YouTube: PainCur. Dr. Ivar E. Roth DPM/MPH Concierge Podiatry and Spa 495 Old Newport Boulevard, Suite 300 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-647-4904 | www.paincur.net

• Highly accredited and trained in foot and ankle surgery at Mt. Sinai Hospital of Chicago with world-renowned podiatrist Dr. Lowell Scott Weil Sr. • Founding Chairman of Podiatric Surgery at Hoag Hospital of Newport Beach.

• First podiatrist awarded full orthopedic privileges for foot and ankle surgery at Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach.

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A P R I S M AT I C A P P R O A C H UC Irvine MFA alum Rebecca Sacks explores the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in her ambitious debut novel, “City of a Thousand Gates.” by Valerie Takahama

A

What were important lessons you learned in UC Irvine’s fiction program?

One of the teachers who Ú had the greatest influence on me for sure was Michelle Latiolais. I was living in Tel Aviv and I had sent her some really preliminary material that gave a sense of what I was trying to do, and she said, “I think you are writing a novel, and I think you should come and do it here.” She was one of those voices—(when I thought), oh, there are too many characters, am I going to get in trouble with my community for speaking up in a certain way, she said, “You just go back to the writing and worry about that later.”

(Associate professor) Danzy Senna was also wonderful. I took a risk with one of the stories about the young soccer player, the horrible scene of the beating. I’d never written anything that demanding as a writer, and demanding as much from a reader, and I was scared that doing it wrong could be its own act of violence and erasure.

She made me feel like I was on the right track.

32 ORA NGE CO A ST • August 2021

You made a Birthright Israel trip that had a profound impact on you and then moved to Tel Aviv to pursue a master’s in Jewish Studies.

Can you talk about that? Ú I didn’t grow up in a Zionist household, or a religious household even, so when I went to Israel, I was developing the strongest Jewish connection I ever had to other Jews. I do feel I became a Jew in Israel. Yet, simultaneous to this happening, I was also developing this acute sense that in order for me to have a life there, other people had to be erased. It wasn’t like I had one set of feelings and an education displaced those feelings or contradicted them.

It was as if these contradictory understandings were emerging simultaneously, almost like gestating two opposed twins at the same time. So it was as if I was learning and unlearning or loving and despairing at the same time, and I think that has never changed for me.

What has the reaction to the novel been like?

I would say the most Ú

meaningful feedback I’ve gotten is from people who maybe think of themselves as liberal but (for them) there is a lot about the reality of Israel’s approach to Palestinians that is maybe too complicated or difficult to look at. And hearing, “Your book helped me to open my heart and be a little more brave in my seeing”—that’s been the most meaningful to

me. Yes, some people have been angry and said some not-nice things to me. But I know what it looks like when someone reacts in fear and anger, and I try not to take that personally. What I do let myself take to heart is when people let me know that they felt their heart opening when they read the book. That will sustain me.

PHOTOGRAPH BY SARIA DARMON

novel of radical empathy, it’s told from the shifting perspectives of multiple characters—a brash German reporter in her mid-20s, a Palestinian comparative literature professor, a Jewish American new mother, a soldier living in an Israeli settlement, a pro soccer player—and it turns on two acts of horrific violence. Sacks, who lives in Los Angeles, wrote it almost entirely when she was studying at UC Irvine from 2016 to 2019.

ty r a P of

C E L E B R AT E

the BEST of the BEST in Orange County - PRESENTED BY -

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 25, 2021 5:30-8:30 P M at RANCHO L AS LOMAS

Enjoy an evening of tastings from Orange Coast’s “Best of” list as well as classic favorites plus beverages, entertainment and more!

Event is 21 & over.

orangecoast.com/bestof2021

PEOPLE

PLACES

THROUGHOUT AUGUST BEYOND VAN GOGH

The interactive audio-visual experience immerses guests in the world of Vincent Van Gogh. View more than 300 iconic works such as “The Starry Night,” “Sunflowers,” and “Café Terrace at Night” projected around you and set to a symphonic score in a 3D walkthrough. Anaheim Convention Center, 800 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-7654311; beyondvangoghoc.com

and Jake Owen. Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com AUG. 5, 12, 19, AND 26 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

The summer tradition returns with free outdoor concerts Thursday evenings. In August, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and Sweet and Tender Hooligans will play at Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley, and Family Style and Donavon Frankenreiter will perform at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. Food trucks and booths will sell snacks and drinks. OC Parks, ocparks.com AUG. 7 SAD SUMMER FEST

DON’T MISS IN AUGUST

Summer concerts, stand-up comedy, and more by Robin Jones

AUG. 1 X WITH LOS LOBOS AND THE BL ASTERS

The iconic L.A. punk rock band X released its first album in decades, “Alphabetland,” in 2020. For this concert under the stars, it joins forces with fellow L.A. legends Los Lobos and The Blasters, a rock band from Downey known for its blend of rockabilly, R&B, country, and mountain music. Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com 34 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

AUG. 4 COLE SWINDELL WITH HONEY COUNT Y

The Grammy-nominated country star will play hits such as “Break Up in the End,” “You Should Be Here,” “Love You Too Late,” and “Middle of a Memory” as part of his Down to Earth Tour. Opening act Honey County, an all-female country band known for its threepart vocal harmonies, has shared the stage with country stars including Brett Eldredge

THROUGH AUG. 11 “FOR ALL THE WORLD TO SEE: VISUAL CULTURE AND THE STRUGGLE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS”

Photography, TV clips, art posters, and artifacts work together in the exhibit to show how the media influenced the modern civil rights movement in the U.S. by disseminating images that shocked Americans and startled them out of their sense of complacency. Muzeo, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714-956-8936, muzeo.org AUG. 11 CHEAP TRICK/BLUE OYSTER CULT

This double bill will offer plenty of hits. Cheap Trick will perform favorites such as “I Want You to Want Me,” “Surrender,” and “The Flame.”

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F B E Y O N D VA N G O G H

E V E N T S

Rescheduled from last year, this festival stops in Anaheim. Featured bands include All Time Low, The Story So Far, Movements, The Maine, Grayscale, and Destroy Boys.

City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-712-2700, citynationalgroveofanaheim.com

Orange County’s Premier Litigation Firm

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Callahan & Blaine California’s California’s Premier Premier Litigation Litigation Firm Firm Firm California’s Premier Litigation Callahan Callahan && Blaine Blaine Experience -●30 Attorneys Callahan & Blaine 3 Hutton CentreExperience Drive ● Ninth Floor ●Matters Santa Ana CASenior 92707 ● Litigation (888) 892-6554 ● www.Callahan-law.com Experience Matters Matters - 30 - 30 Senior Senior Litigation Litigation Attorneys Attorneys 3 Hutton Centre Drive ● Ninth Floor ● Santa Ana ● CA 92707 ● (888) 892-6554 ● www.Callahan-law.com 3 Hutton 3 Hutton Centre Centre DriveDrive ● Ninth ● Ninth FloorFloor ● Santa ● Santa Ana ● Ana CA●92707 CA 92707 ● (888) ●California’s (888) 892-6554 892-6554 ● www.Callahan-law.com ●Premier www.Callahan-law.com Litigation Firm SM

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3 Hutton Centre Drive ● Ninth Floor ● Santa Ana ● CA 92707 ● (888) 892-6554 ● www.Callahan-law.com

Experience Matters - 30 Senior Litigation Attorneys Experience Experience Matters Matters - 30 - 30 Senior Senior Litigation Litigation Attorneys Attorneys Experience Matters - 30 Senior Litigation Attorneys

PEOPLE

PLACES

O.C. Scene PROMOTION

PEOPLE

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PA R T I E S

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EVENTS

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OPENINGS

THROUGH AUG. 11 “FACES OF MANKIND: PORTRAITURE FOR SOCIAL CHANGE”

This exhibit showcases 35 portraits of unhoused and formerly unhoused people painted by the Faces of Mankind artist collective. Along with the stories of the people in the portraits, the show includes information about the artist collective and explains how to get involved. Muzeo, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714-956-8936, muzeo.org

Blue Oyster Cult will follow with classics such as “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” (“I’m gonna need more cowbell!”) and “Burnin’ For You.” Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714708-1500, pacamp.com AUG. 12 LIVE! AT THE MUSEUM: DUO GLISS

Pacific Symphony presented “Fandango: An Evening in Early California” at Oso Viejo Park in Mission Viejo. One of the premier philanthropic events in the Southland, the Symphony’s Gala Benefit honored Richard Kaufman’s 30 seasons as principal pops conductor and celebrated Ling and Charlie Zhang for their unprecedented support and leadership of Pacific Symphony.

The festive evening featured a reception set in a picturesque village square, gourmet dinner of cuisine associated with the ranchos of early California and a lively auction of luxury items and experiences. Pacific Symphony— performing live for the first time in 15 months—presented an entertaining program of classic and popular favorites under the direction of Music Director Carl St.Clair and Richard Kaufman. This was the first time that both conductors shared the podium for a historic evening. The event finished to the sounds of the Jump Start dance band with late-night dancing under the stars. The sold-out event raised a record $2,009,325 (net) to benefit Pacific Symphony’s education and community engagement programs and artistic programming.

Photos by Doug Gifford

36 O RA NGE CO A ST • August 2021

The classical duo of professional harpists Hee Jin Yoon and Ko Ni Choi perform inside the museum gallery. The pair, who performed with the Cincinnati Ballet Orchestra and Toronto Symphony Orchestra, also founded the Los Angeles Youth Harp Ensemble, where they teach promising young harpists. Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949-494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org AUG. 14 CHRISTIAN JAMES HAND

The KLOS radio host led a Beatles’ Session at Samueli Theater in early 2020. Now he returns to lead audiences through the elements of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Listen to the individual tracks of Queen’s actual studio recording. Hand’s Monday morning KLOS segments offer a hint of what to expect at this show: music, emotion, and education. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MUZEO

PACIFIC SYMPHONY 2021 GALA: FANDANGO! AN EVENING IN EARLY CALIFORNIA

PEOPLE AUG. 14

PLACES

FOR THE FINEST FIT IN BRAS

SECOND STAGE STAND-UP

Longtime L.A. weathercaster Fritz Coleman shifts into comedy mode for a stand-up show, which will also feature Matt Balaker of “The Adam Carolla Show,” Oregon Comedy Contest finalist Ben Thompson, and local favorites Tom Riehl and Ron Ruhman. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-489-8082, comedyintheoc.com THROUGH AUG. 14 “RADIANT IMPRESSIONS”

Focusing on the California Impressionism of the early to mid-20th century, this exhibit explores how painters used light to show meaning, ambience, and emotion. The 32 oil paintings and watercolors on display include works from artists such as Emil J. Kosa Jr., Guy Rose, and Louis Betts alongside rarely shown paintings from Elsie Palmer Payne and Burr Singer. UCI Institute and Museum of California Art, 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949-4760294, imca.uci.edu AUG. 15 JO KOY AND FRIENDS

Named the Stand-Up Comedian of the Year at the 2018 Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, Koy has filmed four specials on Comedy Central and Netflix, including the 2019 special “Comin’ in Hot.” He also released a comedy album in 2019 and hosts a weekly podcast, “The Koy Pond With Jo Koy.” Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714708-1500, pacamp.com

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AUG. 19 THROUGH 21 TAYLOR TOMLINSON

Tomlinson, who was born in Orange County, began making headlines when she finished in the top 10 in season nine of “Last Comic Standing.” Since then, she has appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Adam Devine’s House Party,” and “What Just Happened??!” with Fred Savage, and was named one of the “Top 10 Comics to Watch”

by Variety. In early 2020, she released a comedy special, “Quarter-Life Crisis,” on Netflix.

Irvine Improv, 527 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949-854-5455, irvine.improv.com AUG. 20

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MUZEO

DIERKS BENTLEY: BEERS ON ME TOUR

The country music superstar, nominated for multiple Grammys and Country Music Association awards, brings his 2021 tour to the outdoor stage. Concertgoers can expect to hear “Gone,” a single from Bentley’s upcoming album, along with favorites such as “Burning Man,” “Somewhere on a Beach,” and “Drunk on a Plane.” FivePoint Amphitheatre, 14800 Chinon, Irvine, 949-988-6800, livenation.com /venues/33640/fivepoint-amphitheatre

August 2021 • O R A NGE COAST 37

PEOPLE

PLACES AUG. 19

The popular group will play its signature mix of Mexican folk music, Latin rock, Tex-Mex tunes, and cumbia. The five-piece band, which sings in Spanish and English, is known for its upbeat stage presence and vocal harmonies.

Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

AUG. 21 TOY STORY IN CONCERT

While the first installation of the much-loved Disney/Pixar movie franchise plays on a big screen behind them, Pacific Symphony musicians will play the score live. They’ll be led by guest conductor Sarah Hicks, who specializes in film music and conducted “Coco Live at the Hollywood Bowl,” which was recorded for Disney+. Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com AUG. 26 CAREY FRANK

A Los Angeles-based musician who plays piano, organ, keyboards, and ukulele, Frank has performed with Tedeschi Trucks Band, Social Distortion, and others. He also plays with his

38 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F M U C K E N T H A L E R C U LT U R A L C E N T E R A N D S H E R M A N L I B R A R Y A N D G A R D E N S

JARABE MEXICANO

PEOPLE

PLACES

AUG. 28 AUG. 28 SUMMER GARDEN PART Y

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F M U C K E N T H A L E R C U LT U R A L C E N T E R A N D S H E R M A N L I B R A R Y A N D G A R D E N S

The culmination of the 25th annual Newport Beach Garden Tour, the party includes a hat contest, a silent auction, live music, food from Sun Dried Tomato Bistro, and a bouquet bar, where you can make an arrangement to take home. Attendees can also chat with artists who will paint and sell their work in various spots around the property.

Sherman Library and Gardens, 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, 949-6732261, thesherman.org

own bands—Strangers on a Saturday Night, The Organ Donors, Rumproller Organ Trio, The White Blinds. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org AUG. 26

SEGERSTROM SILENT DISCO

Dance the night away with the Silent DJs, who have returned to Argyros Plaza after a successful event in 2019. Get your groove back post-pandemic with party classics or EDM. There are three channels to choose from on the headphones, so participants can shift back and forth for hours. Julianne & George Argyros Plaza, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714556-2787, scfta.org OPENS AUG. 28 “ARTISTIC LEGACY: THE ANN AND BILL CULLEN COLLECTION”

The 53 paintings and drawings here come from the estate of actress and model Ann Macomber Cullen and her game-show host husband, Bill Cullen. An avid collector of California watercolorists such as Rex Brandt, Emil Kosa Jr., and Millard Sheets, Ann was an artist herself, and a selection of her paintings and drawings will be displayed in the show.

Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714-567-3600, bowers.org

ORANGE EMPIRE CHORUS

Formed in 1957, this group is known for singing the whole repertoire, from old standards to current chart-toppers and even comedy tunes, in a four-part barbershop style. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

MO RE O NL INE !

orangecoast.com/events

Milanka Studio was born out of marriage of two passions: love for handmade dolls and photography. Its unique European essence and stunning handmade dolls leave our visitors to marvel for hours.

After receiving so many requests to hold events at our studio, we embraced this idea and now offer our unique venue for rent! Let us create a memorable experience for you and your guests at one of the premier locations in Corona Del Mar! We have over 700 handmade dolls in our collection and also offer art classes for adults and children, photo studio services, and photo studio for rent, birthday celebrations packages and much more!

Stop by to check us out and enjoy a cup of delicious coffee on us!

Mention promo code “OCMag” to receive a unique Milanka souvenir. milankamilanka.com 2836 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 (949) 500-8799 @milanka_brand

@milankastore

August 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 39

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VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM IN ANAHEIM, CA

STYLE

HOME

ALL DRESSED UP THE FIND Colorful girls’ dresses from Anaheim-based Elisamama ($60 and up) GOOD TO KNOW The ethically made, small-batch line is created by artisans in Nigeria and was named for the owner’s daughter, Elisa. WHERE elisamama.com and saksfifthavenue.com

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

August 2021 • O R A NGE COAST 41

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HOME H O T

S H O P

H O T C O C O A V I N TA G E

Santa Ana-based boutique features hand-selected clothing and accessories. by Chelsea Raineri

J

azmin Valdez’s love for thrifting started in high school. In 2011, she created an Etsy page dedicated to this passion, where she would source items and sell them. “I’ve always loved fashion, and when I was younger, I was trying to figure out what I would do, what I would be interested in,” Valdez says. “(Thrifting) became my inspiration, and I found my lane in fashion.”

Valdez opened her storefront in March, a by-appointment-only boutique tucked upstairs in the Santora Arts Building in Santa Ana. While customers can shop online, coming to Hot Cocoa’s brick-and-mortar shop offers advantages such as a one-on-one styling consultation with Valdez. “When someone comes in, I can meet them, figure out their style, and even get their measurements,” she says. “Once I find out what they’re looking for, I can easily find it.”

Customers can shop an assortment of vintage pieces including everything from trousers, blazers, and button-ups, to dresses, blouses, sweaters, and more. Valdez finds her pieces thrifting, visiting estate sales, and traveling the state to find items she thinks fit her neutral, timeless aesthetic and are typically made from natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk. Keep an eye on the shop’s Instagram page for updates on open studio days, where anyone can shop without an appointment.

Hot Cocoa Vintage 207 N. Broadway Santa Ana hotcocoavintage .com

BEAD NEWS

Vintage ’60s beaded purse, $65 42 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

SUMMER SHORTS

Yellow linen Bermuda shorts, $55

S O L E M AT E S

Vintage ’60s leather clogs, $78 photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

IRVINE 8650 Research Dr | 949.585.9191 LOS ANGELES 420 N. La Brea Ave | 323.634.0909 Atlanta | Dallas | Houston | Irvine | Los Angeles Call 877.881.9191 to connect with the store near you or visit cantoni.com/stores cantoni.com | @cantonidesign

Creating Extraordinary Spaces Since 1984

STYLE

HOME

3 Local Find!

1 2

Local Find!

F I N D S

BLUSHING BABE

4

Lighten up this season with a pink hue.

by Chelsea Raineri

6

5

Gigi Burris Derek straw hat, $425, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-759-1900

1

Blush pleated silk gauze dress with ivory hammeredsatin top, $5,750, Chloé, South Coast Plaza, 714-481-0308

2

44 ORA NGE CO AST • August 2021

Alice gem charm asymmetrical necklace, $95, Gorjana, multiple locations

3

Mulberry top, $85, Kestan, Irvine Spectrum Center, 714-694-8181

4

Manolo Blahnik Martamod crystal slide sandals, $945, Intermix, South Coast Plaza, 714-754-7895

5

Bottega Veneta Cassette padded leather crossbody bag, $3,200, Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza, 714-540-3233

6

STYLE

HOME O N

T H E

M A R K E T

WORK FROM HOME $3.19 million Laguna Hills

WISDOM FROM

a chiropractor

Gus Tsamoutalidis of Newport Beach Chiropractic & Wellness gives tips for proper posture when working from home.

POOR POSTURE PROBLEMS …

The most common issues are pain in the neck, lower back, and headaches. We’ve been busier than ever (with more people) working from home. You need an ergonomic chair that is adjustable up and down, has armrests and (lets you) have your feet on the ground.

The second most important thing is the height of your computer.

Most people are looking down; you want your eyes straight ahead.

46 O RA NGE CO AST • August 2021

AT-HOME FIXES …

If you can’t get a chair right away, roll up a towel and put it at your lower back for a little lumbar support. Absolutely stretch and take many breaks. Set your alarm every hour or two to stand up and take a one-minute break to walk around.

WHEN TO SEE A PROFESSIONAL …

Any time you have pain that lasts longer than a week, it’s time to go see a chiropractor and get your spine adjusted if it’s misaligned or locked up.

We also do muscle work to get your muscles massaged and stretched. ... I give (clients) take-home stretches as well.

PROPERT Y PHOTOGRAPH BY BRANDON BEECHLER; HEADSHOT BY JOHN GLOVER PHOTOGRAPHY

 6,787 square feet  6 bedrooms  7 bathrooms The home boasts a Tesla charger and a four-car garage.  Of note: Take working from home to the next level with this office featuring admirable woodwork and a wet bar.  25492 Nellie Gail Road  Brad Feldman, 949-678-5198

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

@orangecoastmag More info: orangecoast.com

STYLE

HOME A T

H O M E

W I T H . . .

PENELOPE POTS

The storefront carrying florals, plants, and more opened in Newport Beach this summer. by Chelsea Raineri

H

untington Beach resident Jackie Miller named her floral design and event company after her daughter, Penelope, in 2014. During the pandemic, she pivoted and opened her first retail store in Long Beach; shortly afterward, she expanded to a long-term pop-up at Fashion Island before opening her permanent store at Westcliff in Newport Beach. Customers can shop everything from florals to gift items. Keep an eye out for a store in south O.C.

How did you start Penelope Pots?  Penelope Pots Floral and Event Design is our design studio. We have a warehouse and office space (in Huntington Beach) where we keep all of our event decor and inventory.

We do weddings, special events, and parties out of that studio. We didn’t do floral delivery so much until the pandemic hit. It was just me cranking out 80 deliveries. I actually developed this build-your-own, DIY kit, and then I would upload a video to the internet.

Tell us about your retail shops.  The store kind of just happened— it was an accidental thing. We already had a space planned at 2nd & PCH (in Long Beach). It was supposed to be an event space with flowers and some gift items. We were supposed to open basically when the pandemic hit—that obviously couldn’t happen. In May, we decided to proceed with what we thought was going to work, and that was a retail store. Our goal was to pull from small makers, local makers, and women-run, minority-run businesses. We got into (Fashion Island) in December. It was meant to just be a temporary, quick pop-up thing, but we decided to stay for a while.

We opened our permanent spot in Newport Beach this summer.

What services do you offer at the Newport Beach store?  We do interior plantscaping and pot planting designs. We’ll go to your home or business, or we’ll look at your plans. We’ll put together a design and source everything. We

48 ORA NGE C O AST • August 2021

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

Cacti from Penelope Pots

connect with the community and give people something fun to do that is a good value.

(can do) installation if someone wants us to, or sometimes people just want us to do the design specifications.

Do you have classes?  Floral design, wreath making, signage, painting, Shibori dyeing, and more. It’s just a way for us to really

Do you have any tips for floral design?  Think about the orientation of the flowers—is it going to go on a shelf where there’s no back side, on a kitchen island so you’re going to see all sides, or on a rectangular table so you really only care about two sides?

Whichever sides are your focal sides, have flower faces looking at you.

Seeing the front of the flowers along the arrangement makes it look super flower-filled. It’s more impactful and tells more of a story. Also, cluster colors and do weird things; don’t be afraid to have something that doesn’t really match. shoppenelopepots.com

newports premier blowout parlor not your trendy blowout salon but a chic all inclusive micro parlor where your eXperience is only VIP treatment with no add ons or up selling.

The ParloX is your place to unwind, glam up, or just treat yourself.

949.691.9261 @theparlorx theparlorx.com 100 w. coast hwy, newport beach *inside my salon suites*

$60

all inclusive

August 2021 • OR A NGE COAST 49

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

@orangecoastmag More info: orangecoast.com

S P O N S O R E D C ONT E NT

Industry Expert Q&A: PG. 52 Trends: PGS. 53-62 Photo: Cantoni | cantoni.com

August 2021 • Or a nge Coast 51

SPON SOR ED C ON TEN T

INDUSTRY EXPERT Q&A

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

A

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

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

A

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

Jitendra Ragunath

Managing Director at VERGOLA®

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

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

Q What do you enjoy most about what you do?

A

52 Ora nge C o ast • August 2021

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

Q Where can customers try Vergola for themselves?

A

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

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

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

S P O N S O R E D C ONT E NT

TRENDS 1

VERGOLA

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

855.949.8374 vergola.com

2

Westminster Teak

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

customhardware.net

949-859-6073 | 32 TESLA, IRVINE, CA 92618 949-859-6073

32 Tesla Irvine, CA 92618 www.customhardware.net

SPON SOR ED C ON TEN T

TRENDS 3

Cantoni

Black & More Dining Table Strong and sophisticated, the Black & More Dining Table features a refined rounded top in matte brown with eye-catching bronze trim that provides sharp angles to its curved edges, especially when combined with the table's unique and angular base of brushed bronze metal.

949.585.9191 cantoni.com

4

California Closets

Display your most cherished objects beautifully by utilizing every inch of your space. Perfect for easy-to-find everyday items.

714.899.4905 californiaclosets.com Locations throughout Southern California

5

Pacific Shore Stones

The forever beautiful Calacatta Marble Luxurious and refined is the Italian Calacatta Marble with its deep white background and bold, elegant veining that range in color from gold to brown to grey. This mixture of warm and cool tones and the distinctive flow of design give it global appeal to architects and designers alike.

949.536.5055 pacificshorestones.com

54 Ora nge C o ast • August 2021

Go home to a resort.

Patios | Outdoor Kitchens | Outdoor Grills | Barbecues | Fire Pits | Fireplaces | Pizza Ovens Pools | Jacuzzis | Fountains | Pool Decks | Low Voltage LED Lighting | Walls | Fences | Gates Concrete | Paving | Pavers | Landscaping | Artificial Turf | Irrigation Systems

Transform your backyard.

Let JC Squared design and build an outdoor living space to fit your lifestyle. We’ll create whatever you desire — from a simple, lightweight aluminum pergola to an elaborate California Room equipped with a kitchen, wet bar, barbeque, pizza oven and built-in fireplace.

Live a life of luxury.

Discover the possibilities that can be achieved in creating your ultimate backyard. At JC Squared, we pride ourselves in doing high-quality backyard new construction and remodeling. Our customers trust us and know we will deliver on what has been promised. As experienced building professionals, we deliver on time and within budget.

3D Designs to visualize your dream Complete Outdoor Living Spaces

JC Squared will work with you to develop the best plan for the use of your backyard space. We can build you an incredible outdoor living space where you can make a lifetime of wonderful memories. Give us a call today for a free consultation to create your own resort like paradise.

Call 949.408.1474 YourUltimateBackyard.com BBB Accredited

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Insured

Incorporated

SPON SOR ED C ON TEN T

TRENDS 6

JC Squared Design & Build

Enjoy Your Ultimate Backyard Transform your backyard into a custom paradise getaway. JC Squared Inc. provides well-designed and built outdoor living spaces with beautiful state-of-the-art amenities from fire pits to wet bars to create your ultimate backyard.

949.408.1474 YourUltimateBackyard.com

7

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove

Discover induction: the innovative cooking technology that has rightfully gained popularity in professional and home kitchens alike. This sleek range provides efficiency, control, and consistency atop Dual VertiCross convection electric oven with Gourmet Mode. Available in 30" and 36" widths. Make a showroom appointment to see it at the Costa Mesa showroom.

Showroom: 657.269.5874 subzerosocal.com/costamesa

Bronwyn Gorman 56 Ora nge C oast • August 2021

We Make Homes Beautiful It’s in our attention to detail and customization that we can truly make a difference, as we can offer options and resources to create a room like no other, one that is uniquely you.

(949) 755-2032 • bronwyngorman.decoratingden.com

FOLDING AND SLIDING PATIO DOORS It’s what your neighbors doing

The largest display of folding doors in California!

Carrying the only fully integrated door system with screens and shades built by

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

• • • • •

Point of Sales Plans and Permits Engineering Construction Installation

WE DO IT ALL! Call for a FREE ESTIMATE 949-333-3711 TheFoldingDoorStore.com Visit our showroom today!

1350 Reynolds Ave., Ste 117 | Irvine, CA 92614

SPON SOR ED C ON TEN T

TRENDS 8

Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

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

9

The Folding Door

From your imagination to installation, The Folding Door Store can make your dream home a reality. With over 30 years of construction experience, the owner, Brad Kinder, and his team of design consultants are the best choice to help you seamlessly bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home.

949.333.3711 TheFoldingDoorStore.com

10

Bazaar del Mundo

Celebrating 50 years in business in San Diego, owner-operator Diane Powers has created and curated an international shopping destination beloved by residents across southern California, the Southwest, and beyond. Experience the true spirit of shopping as you travel around the world at Diane Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo Shops in Old Town San Diego.

619-296-3161 bazaardelmundoshops.com

58 Ora nge C oast • August 2021

LOUVERS OPEN AND CLOSE

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TRENDS

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Furniture City

It’s Time for Comfort Furniture City, Mission Viejo is the place to come find Stressless products. Stressless is sustainable furniture offering a concept that comfort matters most, and that each piece needs to be beautiful, durable and livable, so the whole family can enjoy the furniture you bring into your home.

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B&C Custom Hardware and Bath

Toto’s Neorest NX2 toilet incorporates a bacterianeutralizing ultraviolet light and a titanium dioxide-fired toilet bowl, This extraordinary technology initiates a photocatalytic process that breaks down even microscopic waste particles. TOTO has developed the world’s first zero-gravity bathtub in which bathers experience total weightlessness. Zero Dimension is an extraordinarily calming, tension-free bathing experience, Zero Dimension tub retail $19,269. Neorest NX2 toilet retail $13,000.

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Bronwyn Gorman / Decorating Den Interiors

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SPON SOR ED C ON TEN T

TRENDS 14

PIRCH

Porcelain is a great option for kitchen countertops and backsplashes. Moderno manufacturers porcelain surfaces in many colors and patterns. You can have the look of Calcutta marble, but with much more durability and lower maintenance.

Because porcelain can be produced in such large slabs, you have fewer seams and more consistent color/pattern throughout the surface. It is heat, stain, and scratch resistant. Call or visit your nearest showroom to learn more.

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SOCO and the OC Mix

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16

Marvin Windows

Replacing windows and doors can seem stressful and overwhelming. There are so many styles, design features, materials, and more to choose from. That's why Marvin developed their latest window and door replacement guide.

This helpful guide will walk you through every step in the process - from identifying the signs that it's time to replace, selecting the right products and options for you, what to expect during installation, and lastly, enjoying your new windows and doors for years to come. After reading this, you'll have the confidence you need to find the right partners to work with, and the knowledge to find the perfect products for your home.

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FOOD

DRINK

PAE LL A DE BOG AVANTE THE DISH Paella with sofrito, whole Maine lobster, espelette pepper, parsley, and roasted garlic aioli THE DETAILS “The bomba rice is cooked in a very rich and sweet seafood stock that is made with lobster bodies, fish bones, prawn heads, tomato, and saffron,” says Edgar Beas, executive chef at Blu SkyBar. THE PRICE $52 THE PL ACE Blu SkyBar in Anaheim TURN THE PAGE for our review.

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

August 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 65

PHOTOGRAPH BY TKTK

66 ORA NGE CO AST • August 2021

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

FOOD

M A I N

DRINK

C O U R S E

BLU SKYBAR

Anaheim resort district adds a Basque eatery. by Gretchen Kurz

PHOTOGRAPH BY TKTK

Y

ou know you’re in the Disney resort zone when even the newest, hippest hotel in town has storm troopers in the lobby and a gallery wall of Lego figurines on the way to the elevator. It’s a deliciously odd welcome to Blu SkyBar, the airy rooftop restaurant perched on top of the sleek 12-story Radisson Blu hotel.

To further the spirit of novel experiences, the dining room here spotlights lesser-known Spanish Basque cuisine. Few will recall when Basque immigrants had a strong presence in Southern California, back when land for grazing sheep was plentiful. Names we recognize today—Mendoza, Ortiz, Bastanchury—link to that era. Where land remained obtainable, Basque restaurants thrived as sources for hearty homeland fare.

After those places faded here, Basque country chefs refined and invigorated their dining scene, racking up enough Michelin stars to outshine any other dining destination in Europe.

Edgar Beas, the executive chef at Blu SkyBar, worked alongside the most honored of them, Martín Berasategui. Beas returned stateside to yet another Michelin-star kitchen at Madera in Silicon Valley’s Menlo Park.

Now Beas is back to Basque, building dinners from a tight array of Spanish classics and season-inflected specialties that lean into the tradition. In Spain, cocktails often pair with pintxos, the deeply savory small bites that open this dinner menu. Starters also include world-class Spanish cheeses, sausages, and Iberian hams prized for their intense flavor.

A sampling of three costs $23. This is one the few local spots to enjoy hand-sliced jamón Ibérico de bellota, for an upcharge of $36 for 2 ounces. Spendy, but memorable. Do order pan cristal con tomate (grilled bread smeared with tomato and olive oil) to complete the tapas feast.

Of the pintxos, the fresh caballa en escabeche (lightly pickled Spanish mackerel) was oh-so vibrant and disappeared instantly. Bacalao al pil pil (salt cod with garlic) is not salty, despite the name. Careful rehydration ensures the complex delicacy remains plump; try it and see why it’s called prosciutto of the sea. Gambas al ajillo (wild shrimp with chorizo) is a justly popular surf-and-turf nosh. Grilled foie gras with cherries, hazelnuts, and sherry is an affordable splurge for foie fans. Don’t pork cheek croquettes sound irresistible? Alas, these were lukewarm fried orbs of whipped potato gone so gluey no pork could make a difference.

Magret de pato (grilled duck breast) is worth giving a second chance. The ultra-rich breast is expertly rendered, sliced thin, and served with

½

Blu SkyBar 1601 S. Anaheim Blvd.

Anaheim 714-408-2787 radissonbluskybar .com 5 BEST DISHES

Embutidos and queso (charcuterie selections)

Magret de pato (grilled duck breast)

Secreto Ibérico (grilled pork)

Paella de bocavante (Maine lobster paella)

Esparragos blancos (white asparagus) PRICE RANGE Appetizers $8 to $29 Sides $10 Entrees $39 to $75 FYI Chef Edgar Beas was raised in San Diego and Tijuana.

LEFT Grilled foie gras with cherries RIGHT An airy interior with modern decor photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

August 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 67

FOOD

DRINK

Embutidos and queso, a charcuterie starter, and pan cristal con tomate (grilled bread with tomato and olive oil) at Blu SkyBar in Anaheim

unctuous rice. Too bad it’s presented in a room-temp paella pan that extracts the heat of grilling. Secreto Ibérico (grilled pork) is an uncommon, well-marbled cut from the shoulder of pata negra— pure-bred, free-range pigs that feed on acorns. Its dark, tender meat requires little seasoning.

Supporting side dishes add much life

to the party. Delicate, faintly sweet white asparagus under crumbles of ham is a springtime treat. Wild-mushroom confit pairs beautifully with nearly everything on the menu. Chorizo-spiked garbanzo bean stew is so rustic and hearty it might vanish until cooler months, but order it whenever it’s offered.

The view from the 12th floor is not

amazing, unless you want a drone’seye look at the 5 Freeway and all the beauty that surrounds it. Artful landscape design is what truly elevates the sky-high roost, with dramatic hedges creating intimate nooks and crannies furnished with trendy lounge seating.

Blu SkyBar had a difficult birth in November. Once open, it closed, then opened, then closed again in that familiar pandemic shuffle. Caveats were easing but still in place on my visits, preventing a full-throttle encounter. For every polished server there was a hapless bumbler.

But the setting is sensational and an impressive calling card for the Radisson brand. I can’t wait to dine at the chef’s counter on a fall visit. Or gab with a tourist at the bar. Or watch night owls preen to the dance soundtrack. Here’s hoping Blu SkyBar is wide open by now, luring adventurous diners and late-nighters aching for a scene unlike any other in Anaheim.

Authentic Italian Cuisine

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FOOD

DRINK 5

Q U E S T I O N S

W I T H …

DALANA LEWIS The O.C. native is a cellarman at TAPS Brewery & Barrel Room in Tustin and a beertender at Cerveza Cito Brewery in Santa Ana.

by Michelle Pagaran

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START? I got my first job in the industry through networking at Pink Boots Society (a nonprofit supporting women in the craft beer industry) and was able to participate in my first brew. Each meeting, we discuss a different topic (about the industry). We also have guest speakers and other educational experiences. I’ve met some wonderful women whom I consider lifelong friends.

WHAT BEERS DO YOU RECOMMEND AT CERVEZA CITO? Mi Morena (an amber lager), Theo Hazy (a hazy IPA), and our Fantasma (a ghost chile pale ale).

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BREWING? Learning about recipe building and how you can mix four of the same ingredients together to make thousands of kinds of beer. Beer is (essentially) just hops, water, grain, and yeast.

WHAT’S SOMETHING PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU? I’m a DJ. I play ’60s and ’70s reggae on vinyl. I play punk records, too.

WHAT’S YOUR LONG-TERM GOAL? I’d like to encourage other women to do this and get on board and not think it’s just a man’s game.

MADE IN ORANGE COUNTY

Orange

Chapman Crafted Beer launched S AV O R , one of a few locally brewed hard seltzers.

Made with real fruit, Savor is a low-sugar and low-calorie alchoholic beverage that is available in two flavors: passion fruit and mango-guava. With a design inspired by nature, Savor encourages people to slow down and spend time outdoors with family and friends. Available on tap or in sixpack cans ($11.50), chapmancrafted.com

70 O RA NGE CO AST • August 2021

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

DRINK F O O D

T R E N D S

BORN IN TEQUIL A, RAISED IN O.C.

A growing number of high-end tequila producers have bases here. by Benjamin Epstein

New OTACA TEQUIL A —OTACA is an acronym for “Once Tried, Always Craved … Agave”—is made from blue Weber agave piñas, hand-harvested on a boutique estate in Mexico’s Tequila lowlands. But its headquarters are in Aliso Viejo, near the Dana Point home of founders Anthony and Nicole Accetta.

The husband-and-wife duo are also realestate developers, and Nicole is an artist of note. The black-jacketed bottles and caps are rectangular. The Plata is Otaca’s blanco; a reposado, aged six months, and an añejo, aged two years, are coming.

The brand is destined for 600 Southern California restaurants and spirits retailers this summer. OTACATEQUILA.COM

72 ORA NGE CO AST • August 2021

L A ADELITA single-estate tequila, born in 2019, is not the first spirit in Chris Radomsky’s portfolio: He’s also cofounder of O.C. whiskey producer Duke Spirits and Napa Valley cult cabernet Hundred Acre. Named for the fearless women who fought in the Mexican Revolution, La Adelita offers five tequila “expressions” from the Jalisco highlands: blanco, reposado, añejo, cristalino, and extra añejo.

Radomsky, former longtime resident of Emerald Bay in Laguna Beach, now splits his time between Orange County and Miami. His latest project: Adelita Caviar, a collaboration with California Caviar Company presenting white sturgeon, Siberian osetra, and Kaluga hybrid caviars. LAADELITATEQUILA.COM

“Tequila kills … the boredom” is the tagline at LOS SUNDAYS —tequila for the millennial, smooth enough that it goes down easy like Sunday morning.

Founder-CEO Mitchell Hayes, a former surf industry marketing director, launched the Costa Mesa-based company in 2017. Lines include a classic blanco, a reposado aged in once-used Tennesseeoak whiskey barrels, and a decidedly un-classic coconut. All blend Jalisco highland- and lowland-sourced blue Weber agave, are sustainably farmed, and have won awards at multiple competitions. There are two Instagram accounts: @los_sundays, dedicated to the products, and, with 200,000 followers, @aboutlastsunday, generated entirely by consumers. LOSSUNDAYS.COM

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F O TA C A T E Q U I L A

FOOD

BIGGER THAN BOXING. LARGER THAN LIFE. A FILM BY KEN BURNS SARAH BURNS & DAVID McMAHON

Tune in or Stream

September 19

The secret to happiness . . . great experiences with your favorite people.

SAVE THE DATE October 23 & 24

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MY O.C.

Disneyland 2.0 Even new rules for a post-pandemic park couldn’t dim the magic. by Barbara Neal Varma

T

ickets were set to go on sale April 15 at 8 a.m.

By 7:45, we had two laptops and two cellphones fired up and ready to rock.

My husband, Michael, was the designated Disney.com driver, my Han Solo at the controls.

Ten minutes earlier, he’d thought to go make his oatmeal, but I forbade it. The

76 ORA NGE CO A ST • August 2021

online reservations system had been sluggish during our practice run the day before. No telling how challenging it would be with thousands of eager fans logging on at once.

Sure enough, it was slow going as my guy worked his way through the “Get Tickets” maze. Finally, the magic words appeared: “Reservation Confirmed.” I danced around the room before bursting into tears.

“For the first time in forever,” we were going back to Disneyland.

“No offense, but what’s the big deal?” a friend asked the next day.

I blinked, confused. Because … it just was. It had been ever since my dad drove us kids there from our desert home in Las Vegas, and I thought we’d landed in Oz. Ever since my high school grad night when I got to slow dance at the Carnation Plaza pavilion, sadly long gone, with the guy in chemistry I had a crush on.

And especially ever since a cold December night in the park years ago helped heal my broken heart. I was going through a divorce and went to escape a too-empty home.

I hadn’t planned on going on any rides alone, but after one too many hot chocolates, I thought, why the heck not?

Hello, Indiana Jones. It was a wise choice: At the ride’s climactic end when the giant boulder bore down on us “tourists” and our battered jeep dove under the danger in a narrow, thrilling escape, I finally felt alive again.

After that, “Indy” became my favorite ride, my talisman for new beginnings. I was desperate to experience it again and feel the heady illustration by P E T E R YA N

MY O.C. rush of survival after more than a year of the coronaboulder bearing down on us all.

Plus, I really wanted a Dole Whip.

T H O S E W H O S AY Y O U C A N never repeat the first time have never lived through a pandemic. Gone is the tendency to take things for granted.

It’s replaced with a renewed sense of wonder. Returning to Disneyland that day in May, I was all of 10 again, holding Michael’s hand, looking around with wide-eyed wonder.

Things had changed. Mickey and Minnie were kept high atop the blocked-off train depot, welcoming us from afar. I waved back, happy to see them again, even at a lengthy social distance.

Ground markers everywhere showed us where to stand while waiting in line, lest we get too close to strangers.

We already knew there would be no parades or fireworks, no “Fantasmic” show to draw a crowd. While not impossible, it wasn’t easy to breathe in the (spoiler alert) piped-in bakery scents along Main Street while wearing a mask.

Some might have found this restrictive, confining. I found it liberating.

No crush of people to slow my pace or make me feel unsafe. No long lines snaking around the Main Street Emporium or nearby ladies’ restroom.

Instead, this was a once-in-alifetime opportunity to enjoy the Happiest Place on Earth with plenty of extra space and safety features in place. For that, I was grateful.

The biggest challenge? Our dependency on the mobile app. Before the shutdown, the Disney app was a helpful friend—fast passes, maps, and wait times at your fingertips. Now it was essential to getting on certain attractions and making food and restaurant reservations.

Sure, mere mortals and other nontechy guests could still enjoy them-

I CALLED DIBS ON THE DRIVER’S SEAT, AND SOON WE WERE PROPELLED ONCE MORE INTO THE FIRE-LIT CAVERN WITH ITS CRAWLING SPIDERS, GIANT SNAKES, AND HIGH-SPEED CORKSCREW TURNS IN THE DARK. AS WE DOVE UNDER THE GIANT BOULDER, AS BIG AS THE MOON, I RAISED MY ARMS HIGH TOWARD THE PITCH-BL ACK CEILING ... AND SHOUTED, “I’M BACK!” selves without “leveraging technology,” as my husband would say, but they’d have longer wait times.

Two rides, we soon discovered, required guests to join a virtual queue—Rise of the Resistance in Star Wars land and, uh-oh, my precious Indiana Jones Adventure.

Still, I had my data guy with me.

When I heard him say, “Aha, got it!” while fiddling on his phone, I let out a small cry of excitement. “Indiana Jones? You got us in?”

Not quite. Instead, my husband had scored a reservation for … a corn dog.

He held up his phone to my astonished face. “I can pick it up between 11 and 11:30,” he said, looking pleased.

Which made one of us.

CLOSING TIME WAS 9 P.M. I MADE it to 7. That’s 10 magical hours and 21,000 eager steps.

With the trams not yet running, we had to walk the mile or so distance from Downtown Disney to a half-empty parking structure, a feat more easily achieved on the way in.

Michael drove us home as I lay my head back, exhausted, reflecting on a day that was Disney history in the making.

With the 25-percent-capacity rule still in play, we got to enjoy Pirates of the Caribbean in a nearly empty boat,

sitting close in the “kissing seat” in back.

We fairly strolled onto Soarin’ Over the World, and I reveled in that first weightless moment when I forget I have a fear of flying.

On Smuggler’s Run, it was only me and Michael in the Millennium Falcon’s cockpit; two copilots caught in a thrilling space journey that had us crashing and laughing at every wrong turn.

With fewer people allowed in, the whole park had a charming, smalltown feel I like to think Walt would have enjoyed.

And then there was Indy.

I smiled, remembering how Michael had finally managed to get us in, redeemed after the corn dog incident. We’d had the front row to ourselves, separated from the only other rider in our jeep by a clear Plexiglas shield.

I called dibs on the driver’s seat, and soon we were propelled once more into the fire-lit cavern with its crawling spiders, giant snakes, and high-speed corkscrew turns in the dark. As we dove under the giant boulder, as big as the moon, I raised my arms high toward the pitch-black ceiling (but really toward heaven) and shouted, “I’m back!”

And it’s a big deal. A big deal after all.

August 2021 • O R A NGE COAST 77

EXCURSIONS

Saving Butterflies With a Festival The event at Los Rios Park aims to educate and entertain. by Laura Saari route to the train for a decade. Rural.

No sidewalks. Nobody treated it like anything special for, um, a couple of centuries. Some of its buildings date to 1794, making it the oldest continually occupied neighborhood in California.

The street is named for Feliciano Rios, a Spanish soldier who arrived with Junipero Serra in 1776. So far, the Rios family has inhabited their home on the street for 10 generations (yes, there are ghost stories).

For good reason, the Rioses have erected a “private” sign of late. I have noticed the number of tourists on Los Rios Street grow exponentially, and I’m sure that must be a pain for the families who live there. The festival is largely centered away from the homes, in Los Rios Park.

ABOUT 5,000 VISITORS attended the first butterfly festival in 2019, many drawn to the event because there was an explosion of the Painted Lady butterflies traveling north from Mexican deserts for the super bloom.

There are all things butterfly at this event: merchandise and art for sale, crafts, fun talks and interesting walks, live butterfly music, even a butterfly cafe.

“It’s educational, but it’s also entertaining. We don’t want it to be like going to school,” says Jim Taylor, whose Fiesta Association helps put on the event. Taylor is a computer programmer and stand-up comic who also serves as Fiesta president, organizing all the Fiesta events, including the Swallow’s Day parade.

Underlying the butterfly entertainment is a crisis that has fallen upon us 78 ORA NGE CO AST • August 2021

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F G O I N N AT I V E T H E R A P E U T I C G A R D E N S

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his is a great month for butterflies. People who want to celebrate them—and save them—will flock to Los Rios Park, a certified butterfly garden in San Juan Capistrano, on Aug. 7 for the annual Festival of Butterflies.

Los Rios Street, with its blooming native plants and historic single-wall houses, is probably my favorite street in Orange County. I know it as a walker, as it was my

to address promptly. The wintering monarch butterfly population along the California coast has decreased by 97 percent, from 4.5 million in the 1980s to 2,000 counted in sites last year.

Scientists don’t have a handle yet on why the monarchs are nearing extinction, but climate change, pesticides, and habitat loss are factors.

Saving the monarch is at the top of the list at the festival, which will equip us with the tools and the know-how for attracting monarchs and feeding them in our yards.

I H E A D E D TO LO S R I O S S T R E E T recently and wandered among the paths of native species at the Montanez adobe, watching a few butterflies darting among the purple sages. I stopped to stick my nose in the fat yellow pompom of a Matilija poppy, unable to quite separate myself from its thick sweet talcum.

Marianne Taylor, the organizer of the festival (not related to Fiesta Jim, but married to the mayor of San Juan Capistrano), showed me the native milkweed plant, which residents living at least 1 mile from the coast are encouraged to plant.

“The monarch eats this whole plant.

All of it,” she says. “This is the lifeline for the monarchs. If they don’t eat it, they die.”

Festivalgoers will learn everything they need to grow a garden to attract butterflies, and they’ll be able to buy kits put together by festival partner Tree of Life Nursery in San Juan Capistrano, containing the best butterfly plants.

Taylor has walked about a block from her gorgeous home built in 1887 by the Basque LaBatt family. It’s the headquarters for her nonprofit, Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, which puts on the festival and also helps people learn about gardening as therapy and a way to connect with nature.

During the week, Taylor devotes herself to teaching agriculture and natural resources for the Orange County Department of Education. She also

runs a gardening program in the mental health unit at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

Goin Native originally hosted a garden show. But the group found it was competing with too many other garden shows in Orange County. Taylor was sitting on her porch, watching the butterflies dance in her own native garden, thinking about how much solace the butterflies gave her, particularly after the death of her sister Susan Cain at age 35 from cancer.

“It shook my world,” Taylor says. “I went through a very deep depression, and only the garden could tend to my heart and my losses. So I am a huge advocate of gardening because I know that’s where we can heal ourselves— body, mind, and spirit.”

She had something of an epiphany: Butterflies just might be the best way to connect people with nature.

Goin Native board member Jim Taylor said the group aimed for a modest festival in 2019: “Everybody said don’t expect a lot of people.”

And then thousands of visitors stepped off the trains.

“We were out of everything by noon, and the trains kept coming,” Marianne Taylor says. Organizers are doubling down this year to make sure there is enough to go around.

Festival organizers hope to build a butterfly vivarium in Los Rios Park eventually, with proceeds from the festival and sponsorships.

“Our hope is that we can make everyone aware of the plight of the butterflies and how once they’re gone, they’re gone forever,” Marianne says.

The takeaway is that we can all do something to save the butterflies. And we need to do it now.

I mean, just try to imagine a life without butterflies. I can’t.

GET INVO LVED

The festival is free and takes place Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Los Rios Park. For more information, go to goinnative.net.

CAN YOU IMAGINE

A WORLD WITHOUT TIGERS? NEITHER CAN WE. HELP US SAVE THE LAST 3,200 TIGERS IN THE WILD. DONATE TO PANTHERA.ORG.

© STEVE WINTER/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F G O I N N AT I V E T H E R A P E U T I C G A R D E N S

EXCURSIONS

August 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 79

ICE CRE A WE’VE GOT THE SCOOP ON ORANGE COUNT Y’S NEW WAVE OF ARTISAN CREAMERIES.

by Alan Gibbons, Astgik Khatchatryan, Michelle Pagaran, and Chelsea Raineri photographs by Emily J. Davis

80 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

E AM! See Creamistry page 87

ICE CREAM! SAFFRON & ROSE

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aff ron & Rose’s founder started making Persianstyle ice cream more than 75 years ago. Now the storefront uses his recipes to create more than 30 unique flavors including vegan options that feature natural, organic ingredients. The texture of the ice cream is chewy and stretchy, making it something you’ll want to add to your weekly dessert rotation. The wafer added to scoops makes the treat even more enjoyable.

TOP FLAVORS: saff ron and pistachio, faloodeh, dark chocolate 4523 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-333-3938

HUG LIFE

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f you’ve had a hard time finding a nondairy ice cream that tastes like the real thing, it’s time to check out Hug Life.

The ice cream is lactose-free, completely plant-based, and organic.

You can eat your scoop between cookies, in a milkshake, as a root beer float, and more.

TOP FLAVORS: Matcha Monsta, mango chamoy, yuzu creamsicle 14241 Euclid St., Garden Grove, 714760-4345; 3505 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714-602-8006

82 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 83

DOUBLE-SCOOP DUOS

Gan Suebsarakham and Steven Torres, couple and co-owners of Stella Jean’s Ice Cream in Costa Mesa What are your roles?

Steven: I handle the day-to-day operations, from staff culture to quality control. It’s an all-encompassing role.

Gan focuses more on the chef-y stuff : research and development and creating new and exciting experiences with our flavors. And together, we have a vetting process. I think we balance each other really well.

How did Stella Jean’s start out?

Steven: Gan would always mention, “If I had an ice cream shop, I would make this flavor and this flavor.” And I just told him, “Well, why don’t you open an ice cream shop?”

out as well as Molly Moon in Seattle, which really pioneered specialty ice cream.

Gan: Whenever we travel, we always look for local coff ee, pie, doughnut, and ice cream shops.

What’s a flavor on the menu that best represents your heritage?

Gan: Mango sticky rice.

Steven: Guava and cream cheese.

Do you have a favorite step in the production process?

Gan: Spinning the tub while the ice cream is coming out of the machine and adding the mix-ins. It’s magical.

What makes your ice cream unique?

Steven: I think our ice cream evokes memories from childhood or certain experiences that people can connect to.

Gan: I always like to throw in some Southeast Asian touches—that’s my style.

Are you a cup or cone person?

Gan: Cup and spoon.

Steven: Waffle cone and no spoon.

What keeps you inspired?

Steven: We’re fans and cheerleaders of other concepts. We’re always looking for cool new spots and (figuring out) how we can stay exciting and relevant. Fift y Licks in Portland stands

Favorite ice cream memory?

Steven: When we first met and were still just friends, we would get ice cream together and chat.

Gan: The flavor was always dragon fruit pineapple sorbet.

84 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

Favorite thing about opening in O.C.?

Steven: How loyal people are once they try our ice cream. They’ll bring all their friends or order 10 pints.

ICE CREAM! BACIO DI LATTE

T

he Fashion Island gelateria marks Bacio di Latte’s first location in Orange County.

Cofounders and brothers Edoardo and Luigi Tonolli of Milan, opened their first shop in Brazil. They specialize in handmade gelato with organic milk and cream sourced from Spoletta Ranch in Northern California. They also use international ingredients such as chocolate from Belgium and hazelnuts from Italy. The interior is inspired by a European country kitchen with clean, white shelves filled with milk bottles, copper bowls, and cooking tools. Don’t miss the vegan sorbets made from locally sourced fruit.

TOP FLAVORS: hazelnut, Belgian chocolate, vanilla and rose 133 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949-520-7538

STELLA JEAN’S ICE CREAM

T

he San Diego scoopery expanded to Orange County last summer and has already built a major fan base. Its signature flavors, including many that are vegan or gluten-free, are handcrafted on-site from premium ingredients such as house-made baked goods and jams, and milk from Scott Brothers Dairy in Chino. The ice cream is extra thick and creamy because of its lower air content.

TOP FLAVORS: salty caramel corn, s’mores, ube and pandesal toffee 270 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949-791-8133

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 85

ICE CREAM! VEDDER’S SWEETS

F

ounder Ashley Vedder was inspired to start Vedder’s Sweets after her husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. She sought to create nondairy, cane sugar-free ice cream she could serve to her family. On top of being vegan and gluten-free, the ice cream is sweetened with only dates and maple syrup. With roots in pop-up events, the Vedder family opened a brick-and-mortar location in San Clemente in June. Some of the shop’s proceeds go to The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

TOP FLAVORS: coconut macadamia nut, mint chip, chocolate and peanut butter 111 Avenida Palizada, San Clemente

TSUN SCOOPS

T

sunScoopsisananime-themed ice cream shop—the first of its kind in O.C. Owner Huy Pham soughttorecognizeandbringtogetherthe anime community through ice cream. Names of rotating flavors make references to titles such as “Kingdom Hearts” and “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.”

Half of the menu features dairy-free oat milk- and coconut cream-based flavors. Fun fact: Pham worked with an artist to design and create an original manga called “The Adventures of Cream Chan.”

Characters from the manga are featured on the shop’s cups and merchandise.

TOP FLAVORS: honeydew, Ramune, sea salt 13137 Brookhurst St., Garden Grove

86 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

OVER THE TOP

These shops offer unique and unusual toppings.

➊ TAKIS FUEGO CREAMISTRY multiple locations

➋ HONEYCOMB CHIP HONEYMEE

1

Buena Park and Irvine

➌ STRAWBERRY PEARLS CHUNK N CHIP Santa Ana

2

CHOCOLATE CAKE SOUTH SWELL San Clemente

AFTERS FLAKES (buttered and caramelized cornflakes) AFTERS multiple locations

3

COTTON CANDY MINI MONSTER Anaheim August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 87

DOUBLE-SCOOP DUOS

Jason Tsi and Avis Tao, couple and co-owners of Fika Fika Creamery in Stanton What does Fika Fika mean?

Avis: I was inspired by fika, which is the Swedish concept of slowing down from (our) daily, busy lives. It’s taking 15 minutes off, spending that time with your family and friends, and taking a coff ee break. Our logo is also inspired by this idea with it being the shape of 15 minutes on a clock.

Jason: Fika Fika started off as a coff ee shop. It was prett y hot one day, and Avis and I were joking and saying, “What if we had boba-flavored ice cream?” (My sister) Jean tested it and tried to make some tea and floral flavors like lavender Earl Grey. We had our employees and friends try it, and they thought it was super cool.

What goes into making your ice cream?

Jason: We have a huge central kitchen where we handcraft all our ice cream. We mix all the flavors. For our rose raspberry flavor, we get rose petals to brew overnight and make our own rose water. For the boba flavor, we have to cook the boba for a very, very long time to make sure it stays chewy and soft in the ice cream.

88 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

Were you excited to open at Rodeo 39?

Avis: Yes! We really love the O.C. community and lifestyle. The culture of chilling and hanging out with friends really fits with our concept.

Tell us about the design of the shop.

Avis: Since we’re selling ice cream, I wanted to convey a cool, summer feeling. We use soft pastel shades so all the colors of our ice cream pop against the background. All of our products are from organic flavors like tea and flowers, so I wanted to bring that kind of (earthiness) to the space as well.

What is your favorite flavor on the menu?

Avis: I like ube young coconut and hochija, which has a really strong tea flavor and isn’t too sweet.

Jason: Jasmine milk tea and boba milk tea What has the response been so far?

Jason: We’re doing prett y well. I hear my staff saying, “Are you getting the same flavor today?” So we have a lot of return customers.

ICE CREAM! PARADIS

O

riginally from Denmark, Paradis made its way to Southern California in 2009 and now has a third of its U.S. locations in Orange County. Rotating flavors are handmade fresh each day from high-quality ingredients.

Choose from dairy ice cream, vegan ice cream, and sorbets, and look out for unique flavors such as Oreo strawberry buttermilk and spiced hazelnut cake. Even the waffle cones are made in-house.

TOP FLAVORS: double chocolate, strawberry, taro Dana Point, San Clemente, and Seal Beach

FIKA FIKA CREAMERY

T

his shop is housed in the sprawling food hall known as Rodeo 39 Public Market. A rotating lineup of nearly 20 flavors features tropical tastes such as passion fruit and guava as well as options inspired by the owners’ Taiwanese heritage. The ice cream’s rich texture is a result of using milk with a high fat percentage.

Everything is handcrafted, and some flavors, like vanilla lavender and rose raspberry, take hours to perfect.

Vegan options are available, as are pints. Try the ube and charcoal waffle cones, made fresh daily.

TOP FLAVORS: strawberry Pocky, brown sugar milk with boba, young coconut ube 12885 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714-379-7744

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 89

ICE CREAM!

90 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

MASHUPS

Go beyond the typical waffle cone with these creative combinations.

THE PLACE

THE COMBINATION

THE CITY

THE PRICE

House of Chimney Cakes

Chimney cakes, a Hungarian treat that’s a mix between a churro and sweet bread, filled with soft serve and piled high with extravagant toppings

Anaheim

$7.95 to $8.95

Milk and Cookies

Warm, freshly baked cookies in flavors such as toff ee crunch and s’mores paired with house-made ice cream

Newport Beach, with a second location set to open in Mission Viejo

Cookie and single scoop for $5, ice cream sandwich for $6

Fluff y Bear

Vanilla bean soft serve topped with brown sugar honey boba on a charcoal waffle cone

Laguna Hills

$5.25

Conchitas

Ice cream sandwiched between Mexican sweet bread with toppings such as Chips Ahoy cookies and Captain Crunch cereal

Santa Ana

$8

Don Churros Gomez

Vegan churro swirls topped with classic vanilla ice cream and cajeta syrup

Anaheim

$6

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 91

DOUBLE-SCOOP DUOS

Kim and Tyler Malek, cousins and cofounders of Salt & Straw in Anaheim How did Salt & Straw start?

Kim: I had been carrying around the idea of opening an ice cream shop in Portland (Oregon) since the mid-’90s.

I heard through the grapevine that Tyler wanted to go to culinary school, so I called him to see if he wanted to live at our house while he was going to school. He found out I was up to this crazy idea, and he would not rest until he joined the team.

Tyler: I had no idea how to make ice cream. I had made it once in culinary school, and I didn’t get a passing grade on it. We started working with the city (and startups) around us to figure out how to create our flavors.

What’s your partnership like?

Kim: I focus more on the business side—finding real estate, putting our team in place, making sure we have funding. Tyler’s focused on the culinary side—recipe development and our kitchen. (Being family), it’s nice to be rooted in the same values as you approach business. It’s a bedrock of what makes our relationship work.

92 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

Do you use any unusual ingredients?

Tyler: In October, we worked with an incredible bug farmer. … She grew up in Central Mexico where it was a totally normal thing to eat candied bugs. We worked with her to figure out how we can normalize that and make that a fun ingredient in ice cream.

What do you love about your Anaheim location?

Kim: Downtown Disney is kind of a Main Street of sorts in Orange County and definitely a place for the community to gather and have a special experience. We had heard for years that people would drive up from Orange County to our stores in L.A. So we just had a warm welcome when we got there.

Tyler: Disney has been an amazing partner as well. They’ve hosted me for cooking demos in Downtown Disney and VIP programming. They’ve got their annual food festival that we’re featured at each year. (It’s also cool) being on the same stage with all the other chefs in Orange County.

ICE CREAM! SALT & STRAW

F

ounded in Portland, Oregon, this West Coast favorite opened its first O.C. location at Downtown Disney. Expect to try something new almost every visit as flavors are consistently being created, and there are multiple flavors of the month. If a scoop isn’t enough, you can take a pint home.

Mobile ordering available.

TOP FLAVORS: honey lavender, chocolate gooey brownie, Pots of Gold and Rainbows 1550 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714-855-4321

ATOMIC CREAMERY

V

eteran owned and operated, this spot plays up nostalgia with a welcoming space and throwback decor. Take in the wide array of options—classic flavors of the day, shakes, unique creations, and simple flavors that come with a free topping—and know that the wholesome ingredients are sourced from places including Straus Family Creamery and Manassero Farms.

Each scoop is made to order and frozen with liquid nitrogen, which traps less air in the ice cream.

Spoons that change colors amuse kids and adults, and there are two flavors for dogs, too.

TOP FLAVORS: Bean Mi, cherry jubilee, Elemint Chunk 549 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949-630-5884

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 93

ICE CREAM! SOMI SOMI

T

aiyaki is a Japanese street snack shaped like a fish and traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste. At Somi Somi, the treats come with fillings such as custard and Nutella. The star of the menu is the ah-boong, a freshly made taiyaki waffle cone with your choice of filling topped with Korean-style soft serve ice cream. You can also add extra toppings such as Oreo crumbs, a macaron shell, graham crackers, or sprinkles. Check Instagram for the swirls of the week.

TOP FLAVORS: ube, milk, matcha Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, and Irvine

94 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

CONE ON THE GO

Call on these local ice cream vendors to sweeten your next event.

JASMINE CREAMERY

FILO’S GELATO

SUGAR N’ SPICE

Irvine

Huntington Beach

Newport Beach

Up to 500

1980

76

Number of guests this gelato cart can serve Southeast Asian flavors such as jasmine tea, Vietnamese coff ee, and durian Cups and pints available for pickup

Year founded in Italy Family-owned company began serving California in 2020 Book a cart or van to serve 20-plus guests Popular flavors: pistachio, hazelnut, brownie, salted caramel, and strawberry

Years the Balboa Island landmark has existed Prepackaged items and live dipping services accommodating 115120 people per hour Frozen banana, Balboa Bar, frozen cheesecake, or frozen tiramisu with your choice of dip, topping, and drizzle August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 95

THE FACE OF SCIENCE S N A P S H O T

Award-winning science communicator Raven Baxter, known as Dr. Raven the Science Maven, joins UC Irvine as the new director of diversity initiatives at the School of Biological Sciences. by Astgik Khatchatryan

You might recognize Baxter from the many viral music videos she has produced and starred in, including a super-catchy, coronavirusthemed rap titled “Wipe It Down” that received international attention in March 2020. The same year, she was named one of Fortune magazine’s “40 Under 40.” Having just completed her doctorate in science education, the Buffalo, New York, resident is gearing up to move cross-country to take on an important role at UC Irvine while continuing to pursue her career in entertainment.

Passionate about science from a young age, Baxter began posting videos online in 2019, not only to share her love for molecular biology but also to challenge stereotypes. “The first song I ever put out, ‘Big Ole Geeks,’ actually got a lot of attention. I had experiences as a professional that showed me that there are stereotypes of what society expects scientists to look like. Someone at work tried to call the police on me because they didn’t think I looked like I worked there, even after they saw my ID badge. Another time, a coworker called me a token to my face, and it was really disturbing to realize I was being treated differently. With the music video, I wanted to show people that you don’t need to fit a certain mold to enjoy science and have your work taken seriously.” photograph by Y V E S -R I C H A R D B L A N C

I’m working hard to change the narrative, and I’m having a lot of fun doing it.

Her dissertation research on public attitudes toward science communication used her own videos as a case study. She interviewed Black women who had STEM careers, and those who did not, and showed them the videos. “The most interesting result was that of the women who did not have STEM careers, 80 percent felt that if they had seen that type of representation early in their lives, they would have pursued a STEM career. This is an area that really hasn’t been studied, and it might help us understand why there are so few Black women in STEM and how to close that gap.”

Baxter is working with PBS to create a science education TV show for young adults and also runs an online clothing company called Smarty Pants. “One way we as people message to society who we are is through what we wear. So I created Smarty Pants so people could show their love of science in a way you don’t usually see—sparkly clips for your hair that say ‘Ph.D.’ or ‘engineer,’ or shirts with funny sayings or the word ‘science’ in rhinestones.”

This fall, she begins her new role at UC Irvine, where she’ll create and develop programs that help build a better community for faculty, staff, and students. “I’ll be focusing on diversity the same way I have been—for me, it’s not just diversity in terms of race but also allowing people to be individuals and feel like they belong.” She’ll also mentor faculty to make sure they’re up to date with best practices and create events and opportunities for students to foster a sense of community. “Although I did experience a lot of negative things in the past, I feel really great about my experience as a scientist overall. But there’s still work to do.”

August 2021 • O R A NGE C OAST 97

98 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

GOODWILL’S BILLION-DOLLAR BUSINESS The nonprofit’s online site for shopping, launched in O.C., passes a big milestone.

by Laura Saari

photographs by Emily J. Davis

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 99

A A

4-carat diamond ring in a platinum setting for $16,989 and a signed Picasso etching for $1,801. These are just a couple of the recently sold items at shopgoodwill.com, the national website launched by Orange County Goodwill in 1999.

Orange County is an early adopter sort of place. So it should come as no surprise that our local Goodwill has cornered the national online charity market.

This year marks $1 billion in sales for the site, half of that being made in just the past three years.

Goodwill provides employment and career development to people who, for a variety of reasons, have trouble getting jobs.

“Shopping at Goodwill is about shopping with a purpose.”

—NICOLE SUYDAM CEO of Goodwill Orange County The website, operated largely out of a nondescript warehouse in Santa Ana, carries goods from other Goodwill operations in the nation, charging up to 2 percent for the internet sale—all money that goes back into Orange County Goodwill nonprofit coffers. An average month online generates about $22 million.

If you’re thinking online thrift is anything like the items at your musty neighborhood thrift shop, consider a few more of its recent sales: A pair of red Lalique vases went for $6,210. A Motorola AeroVane Bakelite tube radio fetched 100 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

Top: Sorting through jewelry donations at the Goodwill warehouse can be challenging.

Bottom: Nicole Suydam, CEO of Goodwill Orange County, says people are getting smarter about how they shop.

Opposite page: Unique Lego builds highlight the toys, which attract collectors to the site.

$1,658. A 2006 Dusky Outboard Day Cruiser Boat with gear took in $19,500. A Steinway grand piano sold for $6,505.

The site has traction, with 21 million unique visits per week. Though sales slid last year as brick-andmortar Goodwill stores were closed for the pandemic, sales at the Goodwill website ballooned 22 percent.

No surprise that a large sign outside the Santa Ana warehouse reads: HIRING.

Young people in particular are drawn to the environmental “slow fashion” morality of shopping thrift.

“But really, all people are getting a little smarter about how we shop,” says Nicole Suydam, the CEO of Goodwill Orange County. “Shopping at Goodwill is about shopping with a purpose.” Suydam, a heart-faced powerhouse who formerly grew the Second Harvest Food Bank in Orange County, credits former county Goodwill CEO George Kessinger

with jumping into e-commerce when other CEOs thought he was “crazy.”

Kessinger, who later headed the organization internationally, has become a national legend.

Through the side alley door of the warehouse in an industrial area of Santa Ana, boxes of donations tower toward the ceiling. Each worker seems to occupy an office defined on all sides by stuff. This year saw more donations than ever, coupled with fewer employees and volunteers

than ever to sort them.

In one room, women rake their hands through boxes of jewelry, taking out the knots, grouping necklaces together, bracelets together.

Most of it is costume quality, but the numbers are no artifice: In a typical month, the local Goodwill sells $100,000 in jewelry alone.

Jewelry and art—this is Goodwill, mind you—drive the highest online sales. The top-selling item ever, a watercolor by American impression-

ist Frank Weston Benson, received bids up to $165,002. Suydam says the donors usually know they are contributing items of value and just don’t want the hassle of selling the stuff themselves; they’d rather give to people who need it more. The average online sale is $35.

Nearby, two workers help feed hundreds of donated books up a moving belt. A software program, not a human, instantly reads the covers and makes a decision about August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 101

“The community is trusting us to do good with donations. The main core of this is about supporting the mission.”

—NICOLE SUYDAM CEO of Goodwill Orange County what books will sell and which go to the wholesale pulp mill. Can’t judge a book by its cover? Books do even better than jewelry—in one month recently, the local Goodwill sold $180,000 in used books through various online sites.

“Welcome to Thunderdome,” says Ted Mollenkramer, e-commerce busi102 O R A N G E C O A S T • August 2021

ness operations manager, who has a conventional retail background, as well as experience selling online.

Mollenkramer doesn’t run around advertising it, but a quick search shows he has a second-degree black belt in judo and trains people in mixed martial arts. He says his martial arts training is perfect for

e-commerce. “There’s always new tech or a new feature on the site coming out. I am always ready to change things on a dime.”

Items are piled in 4-by-5-foot Gaylord boxes—purses here, golf clubs there, action figures here, games there. Telescopes and wristwatches, cuff links, balls, jackets.

Above: Jewelry is big business: In a typical month, Goodwill sells $100,000 in jewelry.

Opposite page: The strategy of the e-commerce business is to move merchandise quickly.

Workers sort through all kinds of donations at the warehouse.

One item that showed a sharp reduction during the pandemic: shoes.

No one knows why for sure, but most agree that people must’ve traded in their shoes for slippers. (No word yet on the neckties).

One whole wall is stacked with Lego builds, tiny characters filling out newly assembled scenes. One employee specializes in creating unique Lego sets that have collectors going crazy.

Just beyond the Lego display, Scott Matthew Gano of Brea, who has limited use of his left hand due to cerebral palsy, works his computer, gauging prices for the online site.

Gano researches what a specific item sold for recently, and then lowers the price slightly.

Mollenkramer believes in moving merchandise quickly, and he hired Gano the same way he snagged many workers for the site. They’re former entrepreneurs who developed their own small home businesses on sites like eBay. Gano says that for years he was able to support himself by selling mainly T-shirts, Hawaiian shirts, neckties, and hats.

“It started for me as a hobby, but then my dad wanted me to go for it, and I was making good money,” Gano says. Goodwill provides him a steadier income stream, along with the benefits of a full-time job.

Gano enjoys the challenge of a job, but his employment is a statistical outlier. Eight out of 10 disabled peo-

ple in the nation have not been able to find employment, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Gano sets a price on a Power Ranger, still in the box. A few feet away, another worker staffs a space bordered by purses of all sizes and kinds. The really good ones are packed in a giant box, some of their tops open, revealing certificates of authentication. Goodwill offers a service not found on some other auction sites—high-end items are authenticated before they’re posted online.

Gano says the job has enabled him to be more independent. Goodwill’s mission is to train people for jobs outside the nonprofit, and several have found e-commerce jobs.

There has been one new loser in this game—the dealer who haunts Goodwill, especially for high-end items, and then marks them up in resale. Those broker types have generally been squeezed to a lower price point.

During the early days of the pandemic, Goodwill stores everywhere had to close for a few months, until protocols were put in place.

“E-commerce was the only thing going,” Mollenkramer says. “That was all on our head in Orange County to keep all the Goodwill stores in the country going.”

The pandemic will disappear, but the new ways of doing Goodwill’s business will not. “E-commerce is changing the way Goodwills across the nation do business,” he says.

“Especially since COVID-19.”

Suydam says many of Goodwill’s shoppers, whether e-commerce or in the store, are also donators.

“Our whole goal is to maximize the donation,” she says. “The community is trusting us to do good with their donations. The main core of this is about supporting the mission. We have individuals throughout the process, posting the items, pricing the items, shipping the items. They’re people with barriers to employment, people with disabilities, or a mental health diagnosis, veterans having a hard time making the transition (into civilian life). Our goal is to get them work. Let’s find them jobs.”

August 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 103

PROMOTION

FRIDAY

AUGUST 20

2021

Take a deep dive into the world of whiskey at Los Angeles magazine’s sixth annual Whiskey Festival. Meet the distillers, sip the finest selections, learn fresh cocktail recipes, and experience new labels. Plus enjoy hors d’oeuvres, live music and unique experiences that will complement the bespoke atmosphere.

For updates, tickets, and more information visit

lamag.com/whiskeyfestival

Event details subject to change. Must be 21 years or older.

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

-2021-

THE FACES OF ORANGE COUNTY The Face of Trial Lawyers

BENTLEY & MORE LLP KEITH MORE AND GREG BENTLEY

The Face of Exceptional Dentistry

The Face of Personal Injury Law

KAREEM ABRAHAM, DDS, FAGD, MAGD HATEM ALASSY, DDS, FAGD, MS CLAIRE NAWAR, DDS

LAW OFFICES OF TED B. WACKER

LIFETIME SMILES

TED B. WACKER

JOHN STANALAND

The Face of Real Estate Sales in Orange County

The Face of Italian Design Kitchen

The Face of Medical Radiology

The Face of Beautiful Kitchens

WOMEN’S MEDICAL IMAGING

JULIE WILKINS, ASID DEBBIE NASSETTA, CKD, CBD, CID TAMARA STRATTON, LEED AP, UDCP

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES

The Face of Arts Education

The Face of Beautiful Closets

The Face of Defenders of Childhood

ELIZABETH J. PUSEY, M.D.

TEREN SHAFFER

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL OF THE ARTS (OCSA)

The Face of Wealth Management

JANE AN, CRPC MONOLITHE WEALTH PLANNING GROUP

ROOMSCAPES

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS JUAN REYES, MASTER INSTALLER KAREN HENDRIX, SALES MANAGER ERIKA MAY, SENIOR DESIGN CONSULTANT

The Face of Corporate Recruiting

SUZANNE JUSTICE BLAKE RIAN

The Face of Laguna Beach

JULIE TRAN

KIMBERLY CHAVALAS CRIPE

JOHN STANALAND GROUP

MASE KAZERANI CHIC DESIGN GROUP

The Face of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

CHOC

STEVEN A. MIYAMOTO, DDS

The Face of Orange County Nonprofit Leadership

The Face of Spine Neurological Surgery

DEBORAH LEVY

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION ORANGE COUNTY

FULLERTON ORAL SURGERY

DANIEL S. YANNI, MD, FAANS DISC COMFORT, INC.

August 2021 • Or a ng e Coast 105

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

OF

FACES ORANGE COUNTY -2021-

The FACE of TRIAL LAWYERS

From left: Whit Bertch, Farnaz Salessi, Nico Mamone (seated), Keith More, Greg Bentley, Michael McDonald (standing back), Jaimi Groothuis (seated), Dane Gilliam (standing back), Matt Clark, Jose Gonzalez, Clare Lucich.

BENTLEY & MORE LLP Bentley & More LLP, founded in 2016 by two nationally recognized advocates for consumers, victims, and workers, enshrines a commitment to provide outstanding legal work in a client-centered, community environment.

With the motto “Telling Your Story,” the firm strives to understand their clients’ hardships and unique backgrounds as well

as to offer creative solutions that maximize recovery. “Our team is a calming influence in a relationship building process that lasts long after the case is over,” says Keith More.

Bentley & More is a trial-focused practice, with particular expertise in the areas of catastrophic personal injury, workers’ compensation, construction accident, insurance bad faith, government entity

liability, and product liability matters. The firm routinely, and successfully, litigates matters encompassing multiple, complicated disciplines.

“We are honored to have a home in Orange County, while making a difference and pursuing justice for our clients around the country,” says Greg Bentley.

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

106 Ora nge C o ast • August 2021

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

From left: Keith More and Greg Bentley

August 2021 • Or a nge Coast 107

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

OF

FACES ORANGE COUNTY -2021-

From left: Claire Nawar, DDS; Kareem Abraham, DDS, FAGD, MAGD; Hatem Alassy, DDS, FAGD, MS Location: Bowers Museum, Santa Ana

108 Ora nge C oast • August 2021

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

The FACE of EXCEPTIONAL DENTISTRY

LIFETIME SMILES KAREEM ABRAHAM, DDS, FAGD, MAGD HATEM ALASSY, DDS, FAGD, MS CLAIRE NAWAR, DDS

LifeTime Smiles was established by Dr. Carl Smetko in 1980, and five years prior to his retirement, he passed the baton to Dr. Kareem Abraham. With a passion for innovation and the latest technology, Dr. Abraham built upon the practice’s decades of experience and today, as the leader of LifeTime Smiles of OC, he educates his patients about their oral health, as well as how to keep their teeth and smile healthy and strong for years to come. He utilizes interactive Digital Smile Design Technology to bridge his planning with his patient’s vision.

“I love building relationships with my patients and helping them feel confident about their dental care options.”

Dr. Abraham heads a practice that boasts a trio of talented practitioners, including general dentist Dr. Claire Nawar. With special interests in defining natural-looking beauty for her patients, Dr. Nawar is certified in contemporary and esthetic dentistry.

Known for her artistic eye, she is also certified in Botox® Cosmetic and injectables fillers by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. “As a dentist, I’m very passionate about my patients and their overall health,” she explains. “We always discuss the body’s health and wellness and its correlation to dentistry.”

The comprehensive services at LifeTIme Smiles are rounded out by the expertise of Periodontist Dr. Hatem Alassy. Dr. Alassy specializes in periodontal and implant surgery and loves using his advanced training and unparalleled skills to help his patients restore their smiles back to optimal health. “Dentistry is both a science and an art.

I’m fortunate to have mastered the science of dentistry,” he says. “Microsurgery and cosmetic procedures are fulfilling when we can replicate mother nature’s beauty on a healthy smile.”

With a practice that specializes in providing general, restorative, cosmetic, and periodontal dental treatments, as well as several sleep dentistry options, Dr. Abraham, Dr. Nawar and Dr. Alassy treat patients of all ages, with an emphasis on comfort and personalized care.

“We enjoy getting to know each of our patients and learning about their lives,” adds Dr. Abraham. “Hearing about a person’s interests and lifestyle gives us insight into dental options that will work for their specific situation.”

720 North Tustin Avenue, Suite 102, Santa Ana | 714.660.7804 | lifetimesmilesoc.com

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The FACE of PERSONAL INJURY LAW

TED B. WACKER PRINCIPLE

LAW OFFICES OF TED B. WACKER PERSEVERANCE WITH PASSION

Ted B. Wacker has been a force in the courtroom for 30 years. He is a member of the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). And he is a Past-President of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association (OCTLA). He specializes in catastrophic personal injury cases.

His father was an attorney and Judge in Seattle and he gained his passion for the law watching him. His settlement for $12.65 million

involved a hotly disputed liability accident with a trucking company that many other attorneys refused to handle. He has had two of the largest settlements in Orange County for motorcycle accident victims for $8 million and $7 million both of which blamed the motorcyclist for their own injuries. His victories for clients also included a $14.6 million verdict in a motorcycle accident that left a 25-year-old a paraplegic.

That’s Ted Wacker -experienced, dedicated, and respected.

1000 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach | 949.706.7100 | tbwlawfir m.com

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The FACE of LAGUNA BEACH

JOHN STANALAND REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT

JOHN STANALAND GROUP Born and raised in Laguna Beach like the four generations before him, John Stanaland was raised with real estate in his blood. Leading the fifth generation of real estate professionals in his family, John proudly carries on a century-long legacy of extraordinary vision and market insight, with a nuanced understanding of every enclave and amenity within Orange County’s upscale coastal communities.

“I think what makes me unique is my family history and ties to this area,” he explains. “I have a very deep understanding of the town, community and people. It’s an amazing place.”

When it comes to serving his clients, John brings a sense of urgency to every interaction, coupled with his innate honesty and integrity. With record-setting listings and sales totaling several billions of dollars, John’s impressive reputation is well-deserved. But his success is about more than accolades – it’s about the relationships he’s built along the way.

“Without question my priority is to put each client’s interests first – helping them achieve their real estate goals and finding a home they love is what makes this so rewarding. That’s why I love what I do.”

Of course, living and working in Laguna Beach, John is not all work and no play. When not closing a sale, you’ll find him skydiving, fishing or spiking a volleyball, and spending time with his wife and his dogs. “I own a 3lb Yorkie and a 100lb shepherd. My wife is a veterinarian and had the Shepard when we met – I had the Yorkie!”

john@johnstanaland.com | 949.689.9047 | johnstanaland.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.”

With her B.S. degree from MIT., M.S. degree from Berkeley, and medical degree from UCSF, Dr. Pusey has a passion for accessible healthcare, recently buying and transforming a struggling critical access hospital in the rural community of Fairfax, Oklahoma. She also heads the First Physicians 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 BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS

JULIE WILKINS ASID

DEBBIE NASSETTA CKD, CBD, CID

TAMARA STRATTON LEED AP, UDCP

ROOMSCAPES

The Roomscapes designers are ready to help you create an amazing new kitchen or bath. Their team of professional installers and project managers will ensure that your project is completed to exceed your expectations. All the Roomscapes employees are passionate about what they do, striving to give you the best quality of workmanship and design details. Roomscapes also extends their design expertise to

closets, wine rooms, fireplace walls and outdoor kitchens. Visit our website to see photos of our amazing work. Our showroom is full of exciting examples of our products and we are proud to show them to you. Please call us to schedule a showroom appointment with one of our designers. We would love to show you what the newest trends are for Kitchens & Baths!!

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

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The FACE of REAL ESTATE SALES IN ORANGE COUNTY

JULIE TRAN REALTOR BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES Personalized service and going the extra mile for each client distinguish Julie Tran in the competitive OC real estate market. Passionate about her profession, Julie is known for leaving no detail unattended.

“Whether it’s coordinating the cleaning crews, picking up mail or providing clients with essential information to help them make decisions on their real estate investments, I help facilitate a smooth transaction and best results for my client,” says Julie.

An OC native with roots in South Korea, Julie connects with clients from all cultural backgrounds, and brings a personal touch to each transaction. “I am involved in every transaction and handle each sale as if it were my own purchase or sale and put myself in my client’s shoes. They are never considered another number. They have entrusted me with one of the biggest assets and I treat it as such.”

Committed to giving back to her community, Julie belongs to several charitable organizations, and currently serves on the board of The Charitable Foundation for Orange County, as well as Chapter President for Orange County Asian Real Estate Association (AREAA).

From first-time homebuyers, luxury clientele to seasoned investors, Julie has earned the respect and admiration of her clients and peers. It’s no surprise many of her clients come to her from glowing referrals!

As a result of her hard work and dedication, Julie has been ranked within the Top 2% of Berkshire Hathaway Agents Nationwide and a recipient of the coveted President Circle and Chairman’s Circle Gold Award for five consecutive years.

18600 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 150, Irvine | 714.657.8558 | julietranrealtor.com

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The FACE of ITALIAN KITCHEN DESIGN

MASE KAZERANI CO-FOUNDER/CEO

CHIC DESIGN GROUP Mase Kazerani has possessed the entrepreneurial gene from an early age. With a passion for creation and watching projects come to life, what he enjoys most is interacting with clients to help them achieve their vision. Mase has over 15 years of experience in remodeling and design, and over 3 years of experience specifically with Italian cabinetry, so you could say designing beautiful kitchens is second nature to him.

“I have an eye for innovative and modern design, all while capturing the essence of Italian beauty and culture,” he explains. “Our focus is to make our client’s remodeling experience as effortless and enjoyable as possible. We bring their design dreams to life!”

Mase notes that clients are his firm’s top priority and they are invested in every project, big or small.

With an emphasis on communication, not just at the start of a project, but throughout the process, he says the main goal is to provide each client with a personalized, exceptional experience.

In terms of trends, Chic Design Group prides itself on having its finger on the pulse when it comes to industry design influences. “Right now, it is all about clean, simple, and minimalistic designs.”

Energized by helping clients achieve their interior design goals, Mase adds, “I’m able to provide our clients with unparalleled industry experience with the help of our very talented team of designers and architects – that’s why I love what I do.”

2915 Red Hill Avenue, Suite F106, Costa Mesa | 201.281.6316 | Chicdesigngroupco.com

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The FACE of ARTS EDUCATION

TEREN SHAFFER PRESIDENT AND CEO

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL OF THE ARTS Teren Shaffer has officially assumed his role as president and CEO of Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) following the retirement of Ralph Opacic, Ed.D. Shaffer is a lauded arts leader and educator who is uniquely equipped to carry on the school’s mission, having dedicated himself to serving students for the past decade. He began his tenure at OCSA as conductor of the acclaimed Frederick Fennell Wind Ensemble.

He was quickly recognized for his leadership and was promoted to director of the Instrumental Music Conservatory and then to dean of arts. Prior to his appointment as president and CEO, Shaffer worked alongside Opacic as the executive vice president of the Foundation for OCSA and its sister campus, California School of the Arts – San Gabriel Valley, where he led the marketing and development teams and expanded several educational initiatives. Shaffer looks forward to leading OCSA into its 35th anniversary year.

1010 North Main Street, Santa Ana | 714.560.0900 | ocsarts.net | @weareocsa

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The FACE of BEAUTIFUL CLOSETS

JUAN REYES

KAREN HENDRIX

ERIKA MAY

MASTER INSTALLER

SALES MANAGER

SENIOR DESIGN CONSULTANT

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

When it comes to custom storage creations, California Closets excels at pairing customers with designers who fit their taste and personality.

Whether you want a look that is sleek and modern or traditionally sophisticated, the experts at California Closets can help you bring your vision to life.

“I like to challenge myself, and I like to see how much customers love what we do. I know we are making their lives better,” says Master Installer Juan Reyes. “The most important thing is providing the best possible experience with California Closets. Customers love it when they see their closet completed – I can see on their faces how satisfied they are.” Sales Manager Karen Hendrix, agrees. “At my core I am a designer. I love to collaborate with our clients to design a space for them that makes their day-to-day lives better.” In her role as a sales manager, Karen encourages her team to be the best designers and project

managers for clients. “Our core values are based on leading with our expertise to create the best possible outcome,” she says. “My ultimate goal is to provide guidance and inspiration to our team of designers that will allow them in turn to give the California Closets experience to each client.” When it comes to advising clients on custom solutions, Senior Design Consultant Erika May adds, “Assessing a client’s underutilized, non-functional, or frustrating space and designing a beautiful, inspiring storage solution in real time is so gratifying, but the true joy comes from seeing my vision built out and come to life. The looks on my clients’ faces, and knowing what a difference it will make in their daily routine is immensely rewarding. It’s like a piece of my artwork lives forever in their home.” California Closets offers storage designs for closets, offices, garages, laundry rooms, pantries and media centers. Discover your perfect match at California Closets 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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The FACE of DEFENDERS OF CHILDHOOD

KIMBERLY CHAVALAS CRIPE PRESIDENT AND CEO

CHOC Kimberly Chavalas Cripe, CHOC’s President and CEO, leads a mighty brigade of physicians, nurses, researchers, and other professionals dedicated to defending childhood by partnering with parents to keep their kids healthy. Especially during the pandemic.

Before COVID-19 spread throughout Southern California, Kim convened a CHOC command center to ensure a well-coordinated response to protect our county’s children and families. New safety measures, mental health support, and COVID-19 testing centers were promptly implemented. Additionally, CHOC expanded its telehealth capabilities and launched 1-844-GET-CHOC, a free 24/7 nurse helpline to answer pediatric health questions and give parents peace of mind.

With the arrival of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, CHOC is vaccinating eligible children and families, so they can get back to doing what they love: playing sports, celebrating milestones, and hugging grandparents.

CHOC is dedicated to providing safe, high-quality pediatric care, keeping kids and adolescents happy and healthy. Because nothing should put childhood on pause. Learn more at choc.org.

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

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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 six years.

His practice also uses stem cells and growth factors to speed up healing in bone grafting to prepare for implants, treatment of facial injuries, fosamax related osteonecrosis 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. In over 26-years of placing dental implants, his long-term success rate is 99.9%.

Through the prestigious Seattle Study Club, he is involved with teaching a yearlong course which will educate and mentor general dentists on how to place and restore dental implants.

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 WEALTH MANAGEMENT

JANE AN, CRPC PRESIDENT

MONOLITHE WEALTH PLANNING GROUP As the President of Monolithe Wealth Planning Group, Jane An’s expertise lies in executing financial strategies which may otherwise be difficult to navigate on their own. Jane is passionate about retirement planning and helping her clients achieve financial independence and freedom. Known for her holistic approach to wealth management, Jane focuses on high net worth individuals and families, with an emphasis on financial, business, tax and multi-generational estate planning.

“We have a process of getting to know our clients on a detailed level before making any recommendations or action plans. This allows for us to create customized Financial Plans to execute with educated decisions,” says Jane. “We are a fee-based firm and believe that not basing compensation on certain types of products is extremely important in the overall strategy. Our firm does not charge commissions – we believe having a transparent fee structure is key to a successful, trusting relationship.”

Jane has been recognized and awarded numerous times for her skill as a top Wealth Advisor, including features in Forbes and the Wall Street Journal*. But what she is most proud of are the results she achieves for her clients.

“I am proud of being a woman-owned financial firm that puts clients first. Women are fantastic financial advisors – we are great listeners, empathetic, accomplished business owners, and we have a unique way of looking at life. I have been very proactive in shaping our firm’s future to provide exceptional financial advice to our clients.”

4340 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 200, Newport Beach | 949.245.6175 | MonolitheGroup.com | CA Insurance License No 0E12731 Securities and insurance services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC. Advisory services offered through NWF Advisory Services, Inc., a registered investment advisor not affiliated with Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. Monolithe Wealth Planning Group and Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. are separate and unrelated companies. *Third-party rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor by any client nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation.

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The FACE of CORPORATE RECRUITING

SUZANNE JUSTICE FOUNDER/CEO

BLAKE RIAN In the aftermath of 2020, many thriving companies have struggled to regain their equilibrium. That’s where Suzanne Justice and her team come in. Using skills gleaned from years of corporate recruiting, Suzanne works strategically to help clients rebuild their teams – and their businesses.

“We guide and partner with clients on backfilling roles that were eliminated during the pandemic, while continuing to grow their teams,” she explains. “We are targeting hotels, resorts, property management companies, etc., to help them fill open roles and successfully reopen!”

Suzanne has helped tens of thousands of candidates find their dream jobs while helping clients find the right fit for their teams. Blake Rian Consulting partners with clients and candidates to understand what each side is looking to achieve during the hiring process, and has recently opened an office in Austin, TX. “We pivoted during the pandemic and opened a Mortgage, Title and Escrow division. We work with clients nationally to fill remote or in office roles.”

Suzanne serves on the Board of Directors for The Sophia Way, a Bellevue, WA-based organization dedicated to ending homelessness; Suzanne’s company location in California supports the CASA Gala which helps abandoned and abused children, while the corporate office in Washington supports a number of non-profits, including Ignite Worldwide, an organization that helps create STEM and technology opportunities for K-12 girls.

When not at the office, you’ll find Suzanne swimming with her family, enjoying Crystal Cove Beach, and supporting her kids by attending Jax’s Taekwondo class and Blake’s ballet classes!

949.734.9990 | blakerianconsulting.com | Info@blakerianconsulting.com

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The FACE of ORANGE COUNTY NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP

DEBORAH LEVY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION ORANGE COUNTY Like many successfully career women, Deborah Levy has worn a lot of hats. From sister, daughter, wife, friend and mother to proud cancer survivor, this former journalist and CBS television news anchor is especially proud of her new “hat”: Executive Director Alzheimer’s Association Orange County.

“I have the privilege of leading the Alzheimer’s Association Orange County Chapter in its mission to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — From face-to-face support and education programs, a 24/7 helpline, to promising worldwide research initiatives.

The more people know about Alzheimer’s, the more action we inspire. Of course, I will need the Orange County community’s help in achieving our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s and I encourage anyone wanting to support our cause to contact me directly.”

A Southern California native, Deborah has had a career trajectory that has been by all accounts, extremely successful. She’s led other best-in-class non-profits, including Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California. She notes that while she is proud of raising more than $100m for organizations that are changing the world, at the end of the day it’s the people she’s met along the way that really count.

“It’s the relationships that I have built with people that I’m most thankful for. Trust. Integrity. Kindness.

Tenacity. Empowering and helping others. These are the guiding principles that form the foundation of my success.”

770 The City Drive South, Suite 7400, Orange | office 949.426.8416 | cell 714.392.2511 | dblevy@alz.org | alz.org/oc

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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.

“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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DINING GUIDE

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

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 BLU SKYBAR Gawk at the view from the 12-story NEW rooftop digs, but know that Blu SkyBar’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-star kitchens, applying mastery to a tight menu of Spanish dishes. Look for Ibérico pork items, indulgent salt cod, and lobster paella. Late night, the place thumps with club action. Radisson Blu, 1601 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-409-1458. 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. $$$ POKINOMETRY Downtown Anaheim’s build-a-poke-bowl canteen is busy for three reasons: The food is delectable, cheap, and made your way. All the elements of delicious Hawaiian poke are assembled based on what you choose. Pick from cubed raw fish, white or brown rice, fresh onions, cucumber, avocado, mild to incendiary sauces, and vibrant garnishes of smelt roe, sesame seeds, nori, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

184 S. Harbor Blvd., 657-208-3488. No alcohol. $ THE RANCH RESTAURANT & SALOON Oozing top-notch ambition, The Ranch packs some big guns—executive chef Michael Rossi and his brother David, pastry chef. The large venue also includes an upscale saloon and dance hall, sited in the six-story headquarters of Extron Electronics. The whopping (mostly) seasonal American fare is a mashup of down-home and uptown.

1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$ TRUE SEASONS ORGANIC KITCHEN This sleek storefront by Saifon Plewtong now adds wraps, bowls, smoothies, and desserts to a menu that once focused solely on hot pots. Still, the spotlight is on organic, GMO-free local produce and all-natural proteins. Do try the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice for a refresher like no other in these parts. 5675 E. La Palma Ave., 714-462-9223.

Beer and wine. $$

URBANA This colorful latecomer to the Anaheim Packing House brings vibrancy and a cool cantina attitude to a food hall that really needed a good taco and mezcal cocktail. Executive chef Ernie Alvarado’s short menu of savvy street food changes often, and you can’t go wrong with his daily specials. Cozy surroundings offer a choice of ambience—festive or sultry. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-502-0255. $$

ANAHEIM HILLS EL CHOLO A spiffy suburban outpost of the combo-plate chain that started in L.A. in 1923. Many dishes are listed with their year of origin. One of the best dates from the birth of the restaurant: the Sonora-style enchilada topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 8200 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-769-6269. See Corona del Mar and La Habra locations. $$ REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK Popular with the locals, this dapper haunt oozes bonhomie thanks to a solid team led by industry vet Scott McIntosh, whose feel-good American classics are consistently executed by a tight kitchen. Service is sharp. Look for a homey meatloaf, laudable fried chicken with yummy mashers and fresh biscuits, and house-made desserts. Modern cocktails and a roomy patio increase the pleasure factor. 5775 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-283-1062. Second location (not yet reviewed) in Laguna Beach. $$ ROSINE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This neighborhood darling includes a 20-seat bar, complete with a full liquor license and a clutch of specialty cocktails. Fragrant rotisserie chickens are always popular, though the menu now offers winebraised lamb shanks, and Pacific ono skewers. A sizable roster of gluten-free choices anchors a 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. $$ 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. $$

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.

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Charcuterie board at Old Brea Chop House

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. $$ OLD BREA CHOP HOUSE Finally, North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a Tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service. Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with an alluring happy hour. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714-592-3122. Dinner only. $$$ 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 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.

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

Just save us a seat on the charming patio. 2441 E. Coast Highway, 949-673-6585. $$$ CDM RESTAURANT The team behind much-loved A Restaurant pounced on the defunct Crow Bar, retooling it with scraped light-wood floors, peacock-blue velvet booths, leather chairs, and a freestanding, always-busy bar. The kitchen takes on seasonal, contemporary American fare. Think a trio of unexpectedly sublime pizzas. A killer Niman Ranch pork chop. 2325 E. Coast Highway, 949-287-6600. $$$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ FIVE CROWNS O.C.’s beloved, vine-covered, fine-dining landmark of 1965 stays current thanks to a refreshed menu by executive chef Alejandra Padilla (formerly with Hillstone and Patina groups). Foodies thrill to foie gras brûlée and roast goose with wild grains, but 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. $$ SIDEDOOR Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes come-asyou-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$ TACKLE BOX Pretty little Corona del Mar State Beach has a yearround chow counter, thanks to Pasadena native and chef-owner Brian Huskey, a veteran of “Top Chef” season 11. Look for an affordable menu of daytime eats that includes avocado-smoked salmon tartine, chilaquiles with black beans, and even an ace Buffalo cauliflower for beach body vegetarians. Weekend lunch includes star Maine lobster roll on squid ink bun. No booze, but there’s always a house-made agua fresca. 3029 Shore Ave., 949-723-0502. $

COSTA MESA [

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

2145 Santa Ana native and Pizzeria Ortica veteran Eduardo Salcedo brings an artisan mindset and Japanese aesthetic to this Neapolitan-style pizza joint in a cleverly repurposed auto shop. Aromas of 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. $$ ARC The welcoming lair features a 15-seat bar overlooking the open kitchen and hard-working oven. It’s an audacious concept that lures a varied, loyal crowd.

Winners include roasted pork cheek, a gorgeous wedge salad, and unique steak cuts. The pizza boutique serves posh pies topped with the likes of blue cheese, short rib, and basil, or roast duck, romesco, and olives. 3321 Hyland Ave., 949-500-5561. $$$ BOATHOUSE COLLECTIVE This quirky hang is a restaurant and privateevent venue from local artist Clayton Peterson.

A pastiche of upcycled shipping containers and post-and-beam construction, the space is also indoor-outdoor, with frequent live music by local and touring acts. Mathieu Royer is executive chef, cooking a tight and ever-changing menu of eclectic fare that’s in sync with this oddball shop. Don’t miss the savory burger. Terrific craft cocktails ensure a mixed crowd. 1640 Pomona Ave., 949-646-3176. $$ DESCANSO Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic

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PASSION PL ATES | SUSHI II

street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$ HABANA Flickering candles light the way through a highceilinged dining room, convivial bar, and lush patio at The Lab’s enduring Cuban hang for date nights and late nights. Most of the fare sticks solidly to classics, such as roast chicken and ropa vieja, but the appetizer side is loaded with winners. Updates include a lavish, all-you-can-eat brunch with live island music and an array of delicious baked goodies.

Intimate confines make reservations a smart move.

2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176. See Irvine location. $$$

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with gold. Though many are ornate, his favorite is a simple brown porcelain-covered bowl from luxury producer Shobido Arita. It contains simmered dishes such as kabura koebi kimi-ni—turnip and shrimp with yolk sauce—as part of his most elaborate omakase menu, the Bizen ($200 per person), itself named for a ceramics style. Omakase

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, fried chicken, and unique pressed sushi.

3033 Bristol St., 657-231-6566. Dinner only. $ MESA At this high-style hipster hang with a retractable roof, expect shareable dishes that play by the seasons and don’t shy away from intense flavors.

Highlights include mussels sizzled in cast iron and fried cicchetti olives. An interesting, value-packed wine list beckons, as do inspired artisan cocktails.

725 Baker St., 714-557-6700. $$$

unfolds at a minimalist counter; a la carte nigiri sushi (most $6 to $20) can be ordered at two tables. Ii and his wife, Keiko, operated Kasen in Fountain Valley for nearly three decades before opening Sushi Ii in 2020.

Mariner’s Pointe, 100 W. Coast Highway, Newport Beach, 949-287-6268, sushi-ii.com —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

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. $$ 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

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SUSHI II

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hef Susumu Ii, who serves sushi as exquisite as any in Orange County at his Sushi Ii, further enhances the experience by presenting each course on one of more than 100 types of Japanese ceramics.

Among them are kintsugi, once-broken dishes whose cracks Ii personally enhances

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. $$$

WATERMAN’S HARBOR A beacon of new on Dana Point Harbor’s saltworn 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 $1.50 star of happy hour. 34661 Golden Lantern St., 949-764-3474. $$$

FOUNTAIN VALLE Y

DANA POINT GLASSPAR Now an improv market offering the primo seafood typically sold to coastal resorts, Glasspar launched as a classic seafooder, oyster bar, and tap room.

Veteran top toque and local Rob Wilson helms his dream retool of the old Mahe site, paused for dining but open for supporting the community with ultrafresh goods and his five-star tips for serving seafood at home. A tight focus on top-shelf cocktails is sure to be much appreciated once groups gather within toasting distance. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$ RAYA Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this poshbut-relaxed dining room conceived by celeb chef Richard Sandoval. After the eye-popping blufftop ocean view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience. But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

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. $$ HOPSCOTCH TAVERN The affable downtown watering hole is unabashedly keen on booze. Artisan cocktails that feature 140 whiskeys and a choice of 80 craft beers are the axis for a limited menu big on brawny proteins, savory carbs, and fried finger foods. The clever revamp of Fullerton’s 1918 Mission Revival-style Pacific Electric Railway Station feels accessible and low-key. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-871-2222. $$ KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN Born in the crucible of the pandemic, this halal bistro serves flavorful kabobs, 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

CHEF & RESTAURANT PROFILES

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SUSHI II

PICCOLINO

OLD WORLD FOOD, NEW WORLD AMBIENCE

Salvatore Faso opened Piccolino Ristorante in 2007. Born to Sicilian immigrants in Chicago raised in the kitchens of Italy where first grandma and then his parents served local cuisine. The goal was simple: combine his lifelong experiences accumulated in the restaurants of Chicago, Italy and California with the finest ingredients, authenticity, preparation and Sicilian cuisine philosophy. His passion for the Canyons and its surrounding communities landed him in Mission Viejo. White table clothes and candlelit dining await your visit!

29719 Los Alisos Boulevard, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 949-380-7261 | piccolinomv.com

DINING GUIDE 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 lanai covered patio is beyond fine. Executive chef Abel Vargas oversees a sizable menu that also includes showy sushi and top shelf cocktails. Do consider the tuna tartare, corn tempura, or coriander-braised short rib. Genteel service. 12361 Chapman Ave., 714-6960888. $$$

HUNTINGTON BE ACH 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. $$ 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. $ WATERTABLE Here’s a rare bird, a hotel restaurant in a tourist resort that the locals love for lots of reasons. Progressive takes on global dishes, tip-top craft cocktails, copious happy hours, and the steady hand of

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Toro tartare at Nova Kitchen & Bar

longtime Chef Manfred Lassahn keep this venue on point. We return just for the white cheddar and thyme biscuits with seasonal butter. The new morning lineup of health-first bowls, smoothies, and toasts caters to beach runners. Hyatt Regency, 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-4776. $$$

IRVINE ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Irvine’s ever-slicker business zone is a good home for this classy, top-floor, New American choice for power diners, office pals, and couples. Modern craft cocktails enhance a menu that blends California ingredients with global flavors. Top toque Porfiro Gomez’s menu retains favorites such as the beef spring rolls, watermelon salad, and Duroc pork T-bone. Happy hour is a standout in a crowded field. 2607 Main St., 949-387-8887. $$ BISTANGO A longtime airport-area mainstay, Bistango has remained surprisingly contemporary, with creative dishes such as sweet, soulful garlic soup, and black truffle ravioli. It’s also a classy venue for live music, and its rotating art collection adds to the air of urban sophistication. 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949752-5222. $$$ 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 handmade 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. $$ MEIZHOU DONGPO Good seating, engaged service, and touches of elegance elevate this classy Sichuan dining room, a retool of a 6,000-square-foot Marie Callender’s in bustling Culver Plaza. Access is easy, and plentiful parking is free. Beyond that, it’s all about the Beijingstyle roast duck (whole, $77; half, $40), meticulously sliced into petals of tender meat crowned with crackling amber skin, for rolling into thin crepes.

Weeks of aging, drying, and lacquering coax out heady flavors. Spicy values include dan dan noodles and country-style sliced pork. 15363 Culver Drive, 949-433-5686. Beer and wine. $$$

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

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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. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$ PUESTO San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oaxacan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from organic, non-GMO, blue corn masa. The cheese is especially brilliant on vegetarian tacos. Ask about the monthly taco special. The Park Place venue is intimate and colorsplashed. Park Place, 3311 Michelson Drive, 949-6087272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. New locations (not yet reviewed) at Bella Terra in Huntington Beach and The Westin Anaheim Resort. $$ 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 11:35 AM Page 2 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. From-scratch 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. See Huntington Beach and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ SAM WOO RESTAURANT Many don’t know this reasonably priced, no-frills place is not named after someone called Sam Woo— the term actually refers to the Chinese notion of harmony. Yanked-from-the-tank seafood is a specialty, as are dim sum and Hong Kong noodle dishes. Service is reliably speedy and brusque. For faster carry-out meals, try the express buffet next door. 15333 Culver Drive, 949-262-0688. $ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas, daily aguas frescas, and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max.

Try the Oaxacan enchiladas. 13792 Jamboree Road, 714-505-6080. 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, 949-387-6700. $$$

LAGUNA BE ACH BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and industry vet Ahmed Labbate decamped Charlie Palmer to create this sexy urban bistro. Fans old and new keep the tight quarters humming to the backdrop of an open kitchen and vintage flicks playing on the flat-screen over the expansive bar.

Santana’s dishes are opulent and intense. The wine list includes many notable half-bottles. 328 Glenneyre St., 949-715-8234. $$$ CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Margarita’s sprawling shop, but both offer topnotch 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 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).

The room generates a superlative groove. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-1000. $$$

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DINING GUIDE DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN With its gorgeous seaside panorama, this place perfectly illustrates the food-versus-view gamble.

Prudent choices on chef Rainer Schwarz’s seasonal menu include whole fried fish, an unusual entree pairing of butcher steak-pork belly, and tarts by pastry chef Rene Baez. Brunch items and craft 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. $$$ LUMBERYARD Veteran local restaurateur Cary Redfearn brought new life to this downtown landmark with a welcoming bar and comfort classics such as meatloaf and chicken potpie that lure tourists and villagers alike. Look for a solid happy hour. 384 Forest Ave., 949-715-3900. $$ 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 openair space boasts a sidewalk patio. Sociable service is 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,

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Pork belly Benedict at Sapphire Cellar Craft Cook

breezy tavern for terrific cocktails, the superlative burger, and world-class people watching. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA HILLS BREAK OF DAWN Fine-dining chef Dee Nguyen never looked back when he escaped five-star kitchens to create this daytime diner serving wildly creative comfort fare with Asian inflections. Whether sweet—French toast crème brûlée with Mexican chocolate—or savory— Hawaiian sausage with fried eggs, scallions, green papaya, and rice—the result is spellbinding. 24291 Avenida De La Carlota, 949-587-9418. $$ IRONWOOD The savvy team behind Vine in San Clemente notches another hit with this welcoming dinner house in a zone with scant options. Executive chef Jared Cook’s modern, seasonal menu roams from delicate to hearty, but all dishes showcase his knack for upping the crave factor. Examples: chicken schnitzel with mushrooms, Zinfandelbraised lamb shank with mint yogurt. Terrific craft cocktails shift with the seasons. On-point service from a gracious crew. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-4468772. Dinner only. $$$

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

N E W P ORT B E 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

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

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. $$ A RESTAURANT This sexy old-school hangout rarely wants for business, thanks to the retooling of American classics made with hard-to-find premium goods.

The stellar burger is not on the menu or always available, but go ahead and ask. At A Market next door, the inimitable Shelly Register oversees gourmet sandwiches and to-go goodies. 3334 W. Coast Highway, 949-650-6505. Dinner only. $$$ BAYSIDE Classy Bayside remains a go-to choice on many fronts. Nightly happy hour stars a winning small-plates menu that keeps the bar hopping. Rotating artwork keeps the dining room ever fresh for re-laxed meals of debonair American fare. Long favored by the coastal set for jazzy brunches, insiders stop in Friday night for a legendary jam session in the bar. Prix fixe menus are a strength here. 900 Bayside Drive, 949-721-1222. $$$ 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 canoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite. Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. Coming soon, Nardone’s take on hip patio brunching. 1200 Bison Ave., 949520-7191. $$$ 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. $$ 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, 949-706-1416. See Irvine location. $$ 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

43 YEARS

RESTAURANTS 17th Street Grill 714.730.0003 Belacan Grill

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Strong wine list. 1370 Bison Ave., 949-720-9925. $$$ FABLE & SPIRIT From the family behind Dublin 4 BEST NEW RESTAURANT comes this lush addition to the area 2020 across from Lido Marina Village. But don’t assume this is an Irish pub that mimics the other. This plush room features inventive fare that’s a mashup of American and Irish. Here you start with Hares Looking at You, a cocktail starring Wheatley vodka and carrot juice, move on to the refined beet agnolotti with chèvre foam, or share a woodfired duck confit pizetta. Yes, the fish and chips are superior, but so is the rabbit fricassee. 3441 Via Lido, 949-409-9913. $$$ 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 best-seller, an outstanding fried egg sandwich with great bacon and Havarti on country toast with lemon aioli.

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DINING GUIDE

132 Ora nge C oast • August 2021

Salmon gravlax at Marché Moderne

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

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

NE WPORT COAST 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, 949-7157373. $$$ MARCHÉ MODERNE The finest French bistro south of BEST NEW RESTAURANT Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs 2018 that express a fresh chapter for the redoubtable Florent and Amelia Marneau. Added space and oversize windows let the outdoors into a room that oozes grace and sophistication. Beloved dishes such as Spanish octopus with chorizo return to the dinner menu alongside new creations from the open kitchen—think crispy suckling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only.

7862 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 714-434-7900. $$$

WASA SUSHI James Hamamori cemented his stardom at this striking shopping-center spot brimming with devotees of modern spins on sushi. Renowned for such fare as salmon with ginger sauce and fresh orange. Exceptional selection of salads, appetizers, and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511.

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

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

ORANGE BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a southern accent. Look for parm-crusted meatloaf, gulf shrimp and grits, and a yowza burger. The service is sharp. Sunday brunch and a robust midweek happy hour. 118 W. Chapman Ave., 714-716-1599. $$ GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Gabbi Patrick grew up working in her family’s Mexican restaurants, then studied at the Greystone Culinary Academy in Napa. The menu reveals her formal training as it embraces her family’s background. With items such as gorditas al pastor (masa cakes with Kurobuta pork belly and a pineapple-onion relish), Patrick’s plates celebrate simple, honest flavors. 141 S. Glassell St., 714-6333038. $$ 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

P H O T O G R A P H B Y M A R I A H TA U G E R

Multigrain pancakes are worthy, but Swedish mini pancakes with berries and cream are stupendous.

3420 Via Oporto, 949-791-2096. $$ OLEA CELL AR CRAFT COOK Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offering from the polished crew behind sister restaurants Ironwood and Vine, a homegrown hospitality group. Fans of chef Jared Cook will recognize some familiar dishes from his sibling shops, but there are exclusives here, too. We’re mad for the opulent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarragon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949-287-6807. Dinner nightly. $$$ PESCADOU BISTRO After three decades at its vintage location, this vest-pocket 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 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. $$ 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, 949706-3622. $$$ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949720-0980. See Irvine location. $$ 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. Stand out new dishes for

P H O T O G R A P H B Y M A R I A H TA U G E R

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 crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680. $$

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. $$

PLACENTIA

SAN CLEMENTE

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. $

MRK PUBLIC Three chefs, two of them former co-chefs at Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach, transform a fast-casual fixture into a winning spot that offers craft beers, all $5, and a tightly edited menu of elevated favorites, notably Tuscan toast, and a terrific fried chicken sandwich.

The rear counter offers a distant ocean view. 1402 S. El Camino Real, 949-441-7621. Beer and wine. $ NICK’S On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact all-day menu of comfort classics with a modern twist. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened fish sandwich. And there’s a sidewalk patio with fireplace. Sociable service is notably polished. 213 Avenida del Mar, 949-481-2200. 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

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

O.C. Scene

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. $$ MAYFIELD Modern, hyper-seasonal California fare meets the timeless food ways of the Middle East at this ingenious newcomer. Breezy two-story digs include a pretty quartz bar for leading-edge cocktails. Do try fried eggplant, lamb meatballs, and shareable dips. By day, look for indulgent brunch dishes. 31761 Camino Capistrano, 949-218-5140. $$$

PROMOTION

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KURE IT CANCER RESEARCH’S RIVALS CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT

A full contingent of 144 golfers filled out the roster at Pelican Hill Golf Club for the 2021 Kure It Cancer Research’s Fourth Annual Rivals Cup golf tournament. With the USC/UCLA rivals theme taking on a new meaning with the new tagline, “USC vs. The World,” meaning all rivalries welcome. Special players included Lakers Showtime-era players James Worthy and Byron Scott.

Guests gathered at the awards reception at Aston Martin Newport Beach for a tempting silent and live auction fare and delicious food and drink. The first-place winning foursome repeated their feat with Anaheim Ducks star Ryan Getzlaf leading the way, and an estimated $160,00 was netted for the cause. Checks of $150,00 were presented to both the UCLA Jonsson and USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Centers.

Photos by Tony Lattimore

August 2021 • Or a nge Coast 133

DINING GUIDE 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. $$ SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO

]

BENCHMARK Quirky but capable, this Santa Ana spot goes all-in for alfresco, luring diners with a tree-shaded setting on a vintage residential street. The menu of American bistro dishes is just big enough to have wide appeal.

Happy hour and weekend brunch have a backyard party vibe. Dinner surprises with upmarket dishes, say a lovely bavette steak atop celery root purée.

601 E. Santa Ana Blvd., 714-480-0225. $$ CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL This intrepid Mexican canteen offers less familiar dishes—corundas, roast quail—alongside comfort favorites such as ceviche and chilaquiles. Michoacán native Sergio Ortega previously of Descanso, is executive chef. Inaugural meals include dinner nightly and Sunday brunch. Commendable cocktails.

400 N. Broadway, 714-852-3256. $$ EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe from Mexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde. Also impressive: crisp tacos ahogado in hot broth. We loved the guajillo salsa-soaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch. Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. The vintage site with soaring ceilings seats 115 and boasts modern artwork.

Expect kind, unflappable service. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$ MIX MIX KITCHEN BAR DTSA got a major dining upgrade BEST NEW RESTAURANT with this winner from chef-owner 2017 Ross Pangilinan. A veteran of highend dining, his major culinary chops rule the day but not the tab at his breakout venue with zero pretension and multicourse meals packed with finesse. Think prosciutto toast with quince honey, and seared foie gras with al pastor spices and charred pineapple. Spiffy craft cocktails, too. 300 N. Main St., 714-836-5158. Dinner only. $$$

SE AL BE ACH 320 MAIN Seal Beach’s dark-but-cheerful indie venue boasts a long-respected cocktail program, and new chef James Miller complements those craft cocktails with a menu of rich, high-flavor fare. Think bone marrow Wellington, and for brunch, fried chicken Benedict.

Fun day-of-the-week specials include Tiki Tuesday and Wine and Whiskey Wednesday. 320 Main St., 562-799-6246. $$ MAHÉ Mahé is a hot spot for locals. Entertainment and a lively bar are the backdrops for sushi, steaks, and seafood. The inventive rolls, such as the salmon

134 Ora nge C o ast • August 2021

Beet salad at Knife Pleat

bomb, will make you a regular. 1400 Pacific Coast Highway, 562-431-3022. Dinner only. $$$

SOUTH COAST ME TRO ANQI

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

Executive chef Ron Lee makes delicious harmony with matriarch master chef Helene An’s spicy beef tacos and roasted New Zealand lamb rack, as well as her fabled roast crab (Tuesday only). Zen chic decor turns heads. Drinks at the dramatic bar dazzle the cocktail crowd, but try Sunday brunch for a more kickback experience, or snag a padded stool at the adjacent noodle bar. 3333 Bristol St., 714-557-5679. $$$ ANTONELLO RISTORANTE For more than three decades South Coast Plaza’s Italian grand diva has reigned for ultrafine feasting on authentic, traditional dishes backed by a savvy wine selection deep with Italian stars. House-made pastas, breads, and desserts. The restaurant’s aura of privilege is underscored by pampering service for VIPs. A full-service wine bar is the latest update.

3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-751-7153. $$$ THE HALL GLOBAL EATERY Upscale yet low key, full service Crudo gets a bit lost amid The Hall’s 10,000-square-foot wonderland of casual offerings, but do search out the latest menu from Amar Santana. It stars seasonal riffs on crudos exploding with worldly flavors plus endless choices from the raw bar, charcuterie list, and don’t-miss intricate cocktails by bar star Michael Rooney. Patio seating highly recommended. 3333 Bristol St., 714-515-5544. $$ DARYA Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t

staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebobs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$ DIN TAI FUNG Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, hand-pleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bristol St., 714-549-3388. $$ HAMAMORI Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza penthouse dazzler of a sushi bar. Son Jim is now behind the bar, too, but this heavenly venue also shows off non-sushi dishes such as uni floating in edamame puree, Kobe rissole, and miso-marinated lamb chops. Omakase is truly top-notch. 3333 Bear St., 714-850-0880. $$$ KNIFE PLEAT Knife Pleat inhabits the penthouse of South Coast Plaza. Chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi are new to O.C. though acclaimed in Los Angeles, and in the case of Esnault, covered in Michelin star dust after years with mentor Alain Ducasse. Esnault is a disciple of the seasons; his style is light, graceful, and precise as revealed by escargot ravioli in broth, his famous legumes de saison, or the ultrarefined cassoulet. Don’t skip Germain Biotteau’s indulgent desserts. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. $$$ MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Steaks, including a 48-ounce porterhouse and a double-cut filet mignon, are wet-aged three to four weeks. Fill your plate with giant sides of broccoli

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

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF TERRACE BY MIX MIX

SANTA ANA [

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF TERRACE BY MIX MIX

Bone marrow pizza at Terrace by Mix Mix

and hash browns, but leave a little room: There’s chocolate cake for dessert. Killer happy hour deals, early and late night, Sunday through Friday. 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., 714-444-4834. See Anaheim location. $$$ RITTER’S STEAM KETTLE COOKING Chef-partner Mike Ritter and crew create CajunCreole magic in 12 steam-heated steel caldrons that cook seductive versions of gumbo, chowder, and the legendary pan poast—a heady concoction of various shellfish bubbling in a rich sauce of cream, tomato, and secret spices, topped with a dome of perfect jasmine rice—that’s by far the bestselling dish.

And don’t miss the mean po’ boy sandwich. 1421 W. MacArthur Blvd., 714-850-1380. Beer and wine. $$ ROYAL KHYBER Arun Puri, the creator behind Orange County’s first Indian restaurant, is still buying the spices and manning the tandoor oven in the skilled kitchen at this upscale choice for first-rate renditions of classics such as butter chicken, tikka masala, and the signature Khyber’s Nectar, a dish of slow-cooked lamb shanks said to be an aphrodisiac. 1621 W. Sunflower Ave., 714-436-1010. $$ TERRACE BY MIX MIX Canny chef-owner Ross Pangilinan leverages the success of his original Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in downtown Santa Ana with this minimalist aerie overlooking the stylish Bridge of Gardens skywalk at South Coast Plaza. This venue lacks a full bar, but it has wine and beer and is open daily with ample free parking. Fans love the three-course lunch for $20, but weekend brunch with its mimosa cart beguiles, and dinner offers the best prix fixe in the center.

Don’t-miss dishes include Asian ribs, hamachi crudo, and pork cheek adobo. 3333 Bear St., 657-231-6447. $$ VACA Top chef Amar Santana and ace partner Ahmed Labbate return to Costa Mesa with an exuberant, singular ode to Spain. Santana sidesteps the “eat local” crusade, offering peerless jamon Iberico, lush bomba rice for paellas, and verdant Mahon gin for

cocktails. Dozens of authentic tapas beg to be tried, but do consider excellent wood-grilled steaks, dryaged in-house. Dinner tables at prime times are scarce, so plan, wait, or aim for lunch. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$

TUSTIN CENTRO STORICO Old Town Tustin’s new kid on the old block transforms a vintage building into a spaghetteria and bar, plus a back pocket cafe. Artisan, fresh daily pasta is the latest effort from the Pozzuoli family behind Centro, the excellent micro pizzeria next door.

Signature dishes include Capperi e Olive (casarecca), Aglione (bucatini), and grilled porterhouse for two.

405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$ CHAAK Gabbi and Ed Patrick of Gabbi’s Kitchen chose Old Town to show off the county’s most sophisticated take on the regional fare of Mexico’s wondrous Yucatan Peninsula, naming their new location after the Mayan rain god. The dazzling space features a retractable roof and sliding Roman shades to lovely effect. Must-have dishes include sikil pec, a roasted pumpkin seed dip, as well as cochinita pibil and carne cruda. A 16-seat bar invites lingering over elaborate cocktails or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$ ROMA D’ ITALIA Old Town’s durable red-sauce joint keeps fans coming for family-recipe meatballs, pizzas, parmigianas, and pastas. Casual digs include the red-checked tablecloths, and shakers of crushed pepper. Good for groups and speedy work lunches.

611 El Camino Real, 714-544-0273. $ SNOOZE Denver-based Snooze handily charms the allday, everyday brunch crowd it lures to its Tustin Marketplace venue. Consistently delicious riffs on classic egg and pancake dishes make for a brunch

you want but will never cook at home. Expect peppy, earnest service that reflects the menu’s slogan of “peace, love, pancakes.” 3032 El Camino Real, 714-4156269. Second location (not reviewed) in Orange at 240 W. Chapman Ave., 657-284-1850. $$ THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The O.C. power crowd doesn’t care that this isn’t a winery, but a huge, handsome restaurant that attracts disciples of steak, wine, and cigars. They’re exactly the folks you’d expect would follow partners JC Clow and William Lewis from their previous gig at Morton’s, with executive chef Yvon Goetz in tow. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. If the 7,500-bottle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$ THE YELLOW CHILLI The Yellow Chilli is another franchise by Sanjeev Kapoor, India’s mega-celebrity chef. Bigger than Wolfgang or Martha. The massive menu proves the master chef isn’t stingy with recipes, not after writing more than 150 cookbooks. Knowledgeable servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera, one of Kapoor’s most famous creations: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714389-5280. $$ ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, creative way with Mediterranean flavors.

Zov keeps her flagship venue fresh and stylish.

Expect Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. The patio cafe out back stays busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855. See Newport Coast location. $$$

YORBA LINDA BLUE AGAVE Southwestern favorites, from tamales to carnitas, and mole enchiladas in generous portions, keep regulars coming back. For something different, try the Puerto Nuevo tostada with shrimp, mahi-mahi, sour cream, and raspberries in a pumpkin seedcitrus dressing. 18601 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714-9705095. $$ THE WILD ARTICHOKE Chef-owner James D’Aquila and his winsome crew raise the culinary bar at this teensy, modest storefront. Expect skillful, gourmet incarnations of comfort fare, such as pasta Bolognese. Desserts are few but mighty. 4973 Yorba Ranch Road, 714-7779646. Beer and wine. Dinner only. $$

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

August 2021 • Or a nge Coast 135

O F

I N T E R E S T

P I C T U R E S Q U E P L AY

Atila Lotfi and his wife, Blakeslee, bring their unique wooden toy company, Odin Parker, to Rancho Mission Viejo. by Astgik Khatchatryan

Tell us about Odin Parker.

Our focus is wooden, heirloom-quality toys for kids up to age 5. When my wife was pregnant with our son, Jackson, we were looking for toys and had a really hard time finding things that we liked. The only options seemed to be loud, bright, battery-operated plastic toys. Nothing aesthetically pleasing in a way that if you left it out in your living room, you wouldn’t mind looking at it. But we found that small-toy makers in Europe were making these great wooden toys, and we asked if we could sell them in the U.S.

136 ORA NGE CO A ST • August 2021

Why the move from Oregon to Orange County this spring?

My wife and I actually used to live in Orange County, but in 2017 when we had Jackson, we moved to Oregon to be closer to family. We missed Orange County so much, and we were so excited to come back and move our business out of our home to an office and warehouse space.

Did the pandemic affect your business?

We were very fortunate, and sales of our educational toys especially grew with parents having to teach kids at home.

People realized that kids quickly get bored with battery-operated toys. With wooden toys, you have to rely on your imagination.

Can you tell us about the company’s social mission?

We partner with Children’s Hunger Fund.

When someone purchases something on our website, it says exactly how many meals that will provide for kids in need.

After college, I worked for Project 7, which is an O.C. candy company whose main focus is giving back. It really instilled the idea in me that whatever your business is, you should be giving back.

FIND O UT MO RE!

odinparker.com

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

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