SE AL BE ACH 320 MAIN Seal Beach’s dark-but-cheerful indie venue boasts a long-respected cocktail program, and chef Jamie Carrano 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. $$ MAHÉ Mahé is a hot spot for locals. Entertainment and a lively bar are the backdrops for sushi, steaks, and seafood. The inventive rolls, such as the salmon bomb, will make you a regular. 1400 Pacific Coast Highway, 562-431-3022. Dinner only. $$$
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., 714-5575679. $$$
ANTONELLO RISTORANTE For more than three decades South Coast Plaza’s Italian grand diva has reigned for ultrafine feasting on authentic, traditional dishes backed by a savvy wine selection deep with Italian stars. House-made pastas, breads, and desserts. The restaurant’s aura of privilege is underscored by pampering service for VIPs. . 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-751-7153. $$$ DARYA Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebabs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$ DIN TAI FUNG Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their craving for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, handpleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bristol St., 714-549-3388. $$ HAMAMORI Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza penthouse dazzler of a sushi bar. Son Jim is now behind the bar, too, but this heavenly venue also shows off non-sushi dishes such as uni floating in edamame puree, Kobe rissole, and miso-marinated lamb
O.C. Scene
chops. Omakase is truly top-notch. 3333 Bear St., 714-850-0880. $$$ KNIFE PLEAT South Coast Plaza’s rarefied penthouse shines ever brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelinacclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to see stars again with this radiant backdrop for Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hospitality. Look for butter-poached lobster, forest mushroom melange, and the signature legumes de saison when nature allows. Save room for Germain Biotteau’s inimitable desserts. Friday and Saturday night tasting menus are utterly indulgent. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. Closed Sunday and Monday. $$$ MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Be prepared for gargantuan portions, with drinks to match. Mastro’s offers Prime steaks, wet-aged for 28 days. A hand-cut, 33-ounce chef’s ribeye, and a 48-ounce, double-cut porterhouse will tame the biggest appetite. Retro sides include twice-baked potato and creamed spinach. 633 Anton Blvd., 714-546-7405. See Newport Coast location. Dinner only. $$$ OUTPOST KITCHEN A native of Australia’s Gold Coast, founder Jay Lewis brings a surf culture vibe and his passion for clean eats to the second location of the daytime cafe. Slick and sun splashed, the new venue adds cocktails to a site ideal for pre-theater dining or a breezy patio brunch with friends. Best bites include berry pancakes and the Kingswood lamb sandwich, as well
PROMOTION
PEOPLE
|
PA RT I E S
|
EVENTS
|
OPENINGS
Orange County United Way’s 19th Annual Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast Orange County United Way hosted the 19th Annual Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast raising nearly $500,000 to support initiatives targeting poverty and housing instability in underserved neighborhoods in Orange County. More than 650 community leaders attended and tuned in for the event, making it one of the most successful breakfast fundraisers in the county. Celebrity guest, Misty Copeland moved attendees and at-home viewers during a special Q&A centered on the importance of on diversity and representation in the arts, as well as the power of giving back to uplift one’s community.
Photo Credit: Orange County United Way
August 2022 • Or a nge Coast 137
