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

2022SEPTEMBER $5.95 WORLD' S B ESTBOSS? Y O U ! TEMPURASQUASHBLOSSOMSAT 608DAHLIA H.B. ART ICON PAUL FRANK ON BOOKS 10 EXAMPLES OF WHAT IT TAKES TO START A BUSINESS 2022SEPTEMBER BOSSOWNYOURBE / BEACHLAGUNAINSOCIALRUM / FESTBOOKCHILDREN'SO.C.ATFRANKPAUL

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What I’ll remember about my cancer treatment is how I was treated.

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WORLD-RENOWNED EXPERTS IN TREATING LUNG CANCER

essential for being a good physician.”

THE FUTURE IS HOPE Dr. Tan is renowned for her breakthrough research that has resulted in a better understanding of how tumors function and why certain ones are resistant to chemotherapy. She provides exceptional and compassionate care to her patients, whom she calls her family. What gives Dr. Tan the most satisfaction is assisting her patients. “I’m a good listener and enthusiastic patient educator,” she says. “I believe that’s People diagnosed with lung cancer have cause for hope, and one of the best reasons is the expertise offered by Tingting Tan, M.D., Ph.D. Dr. Tan is an internationally renowned medical oncologist who is making lung cancer more “Breakthroughstreatable.in lung cancer research and treatment offer new options that are reducing symptoms and extending and saving lives,” says Dr. Tan, who practices at City of Hope Newport Beach Fashion Island. “Immunotherapy, genetic testing, and ultraprecise radiation therapy are just a few of the advances that are vastly improving outcomes.” For Dr. Tan, her interest in medicine began when she was “that kid” who studied frogs, spiders, fish — just about every living creature. This fascination evolved into human biology studies and, TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT ANY OF OUR FIVE ORANGE COUNTY LOCATIONS, CALL 888-333-HOPE (4673) Huntington Beach IrvineCanyonSandNewport Beach Fashion Island NewportLidoBeach

Dr. Tan says she has found her home at City of Hope, where physicians and staff provide compassionate care throughout the cancer journey. “We’re a family,” she says. “Everyone comes together with one single goal — to fight cancer and to win. I’m very proud of the work we do.”

Additionally, Dr. Tan advocates for patient participation in clinical trials. These innovative studies provide leadingedge therapies before they become widely available and often lead to excellent outcomes.

Now, she is part of a team advancing world-renowned cancer research and treatment. She is one of City of Hope’s 575 physicians and more than 1,000 researchers and scientists who only focus on cancer.

“Many of today’s most effective lung cancer treatments are the result of patients volunteering to participate in a clinical trial conducted by highly specialized clinicians and scientists,” she says.

eventually, a desire to find solutions to complex medical issues.

Tingting Tan, M.D., Ph.D., Lung Cancer Specialist LennarCancerFoundationCenter

City of Hope, an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, has opened its visionary cancer and academic research center in Irvine. Cancer research that has led to breakthrough treatments used around the globe is conducted right here. Patients who once traveled for expert care now have the world’s best cancer-fighting minds close to home. This is the Hope you’ve been waiting for. 888.333.HOPE (4673) | CityofHope.org/OC ISHOPEHERE THE MOST ADVANCED CANCER CARE IN OC ofCity2022©Hope Amrita Y. Krishnan, M.D., Director of the Judy and Bernard Briskin Center for Multiple Myeloma Research; Professor, Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

Illustration by Andrew Hart

WHOSE SOCIAL

AN ENTREPRENEUR

BY BARBARA MCMURRAY

PRESENCE

MISS BOSSCAT Leslie Nguyen overcame a troubled past in becoming a food and beverage leader. Now sober for eight years, she’s focused on unique spaces for her whiskey restaurants.

BE YOUR OWN BOSS Whether your passion is fashion, food, or farming, starting a business can be daunting. We talked to 10 entrepreneurs who disregarded the naysayers and forged their own path.

BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN will come together to fight for the underdog. They want to see each other win.” GALBREATH, IN JUAN CAPISTRANO MEDIA IS

“People

SAN

WINNING FANS AND POKING A GIANT SEPTEMBER ON THE COVER 8 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

SNAPSHOT Andrea Galbreath started a succulents business, where she puts a wi y twist on her role of underdog against a corporate giant.

—ANDREA

overSucceedingtimemeansseeingbeyondthemoment WHEN YOU FIND YOURSELF NAVIGATING A NEW REALITY, TRUST A WEALTH MANAGEMENT PARTNER WITH RARE INSIGHT, UNMATCHED EXPERTISE AND PROVEN STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU UNCOVER NEW PATHS FORWARD. Find answers to your questions at northerntrust.com/orangecounty or call Mark Hardtke at 949-717-5523. 660 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1100 • Newport Beach INVESTING \ BANKING \ TRUST & ESTATE SERVICES \ WEALTH PLANNING \ FAMILY OFFICE Member FDIC. © 2022 Northern Trust Corporation.

Huntingtonin

24 QUOTES

98 DINING

EMILY J. DAVIS

19 PEOPLE & PLACES The

56 BREAKDOWN Tempura

Correction: Anthony Laborin is the chef de swigs at Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens. We misspelled his name in our July issue. Our sincere apologies!

SEPTEMBER

34 O.C.

51 FOOD

32 CULTUREPHILE

58 FOOD

Charred

Reconnecting

46 ON

40 STYLE

Dahlia

112 PERSON

Lewis Butler, executive chef at Henry’s Coastal Cuisine in Huntington Beach, prepares sweet potato waffles with Japanese fried chicken and maple garlic syrup in Cathy Thomas’ kitchen. /cathythomasorangecoast.com Shave ice delights in Orange County /shaveiceorangecoast.com by

EDITOR’S LETTER Urban Forest in Huntington Beach’s Central Park ’HOODS Huntington Beach hot spots to visit 22 O.C.’S OWN “Project Runway” star studied fashion design in Orange County. Local chefs help MaxLove Project through a fundraiser.special 26 PERFECTGETAWAY New experiences and small penguins await in La Jolla. Charmaine Wilkerson’s debut novel, “Black Cake,” has an O.C. connection. EVENTS Kendrick Lamar, dance shows, “Hamilton,” and other happenings this month & HOME Treasures from an online consignment store in San Clemente TALK WITH ... The founder of The Revury FINDS Brighten your style with these pieces. THE MARKET A Sunset Beach home with a beachfront deck, plus wisdom from a veterinarian ROOMS WE LOVE Vintage and modern pieces work together to create a fresh space. & DRINK rum beets from Rum Social in Laguna Beach blossomssquashat608 in Corona del Mar TRENDS new wave of barbecueHawaiianspots O.C. with a famous friend from a bygone era GUIDE Minireviews, plus Sandbar Cocina y Tequila Beach INTERESTOF Huntington Beach native and art icon Paul Frank WEB EXTRAS

61 MY

39 STYLE

@ORANGECOASTMAG 56 26 112 10 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 OCEANOGRAPHYOFINSTITUTIONSCRIPPSATAQUARIUMBIRCHOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPHPENGUIN photographs

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SECTIONSSPECIALSEPTEMBERADVERTISINGINTHISISSUE Fall Travel Yosemite Mariposa County Academic Excellence St. Catherine’s Academy Vanguard University Golden West College Saint Margaret’s Episcopal Rosary High School Fairmont Private Schools Stratford Schools Marshall B. Ketchum 96 Sage Hill School 97 Unity Middle College High School OC Scenes 107 Art & Creativity for Healing 109 J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center Gala 220727 5Points Orange Coast 4.389x9 f.pdf 1 7/27/22 9:44 AM J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center Gala Photo Credit: Pixel That! Photogrphy 12 Orange Coast • September 2022

Start here. Create a kitchen that’s uniquely yours. The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove showroom has everything you need in one place: Informative consultants, an inspiring chef, innovative designs, and interactive products. SCHEDULE A SHOWROOM APPOINTMENT subzerosocal.com/costamesa657.269.5874 OR SCAN HERE 655 Anton Boulevard | Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Hours: Monday–Friday 9AM to 5 PM , Saturdays 10 AM to 3 PM

MS. ALAN GIBBONS

AGIBBONS@ORANGECOAST.COMEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dinners at 608 Dahlia in Sherman Gardens are rare and totally worthwhile—delicious food, friendly people, and a stunning sunset se ing.

MY FAVORITE THINGS IN THIS ISSUE

PAGE 32 Relaxing on the second oor of Rum Social in Laguna Beach feels like hanging out in a treehouse.

PAGE 52

PAGE 28 What a fun surprise it was to discover an O.C. storyline as I read the fabulous novel “Black Cake” by Charmaine Wilkerson.

14 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 illustration by MARTHA NAPIER EDITOR’S LETTER

n the summer of 2020, we talked to UC Irvine philosophy professor Aaron James about unexpected opportunities that might come from the pandemic. “Experiments with telecommuting and ﬂextime were forced on businesses, and it’s working well for a lot of them,” he said then. “Work is being done well without compromising a lot of other values. … The pandemic is helping to refresh our idea of what contributes to society.”

We’ve all taken a closer look at life; I’ve certainly shifted priorities. Many people are more willing to take risks or want the freedom to work for goals beyond money. The folks we’re highlighting in this month’s cover story (Page 64) took chances and started their own companies for a variety of reasons: more autonomy, pursuing their passion (goats!), the chance to build relationships, and more. The quality that stands out in each is persistence. We were intrigued to discover what drives them and to learn about the surprises and challenges they experienced.Ifyou’relooking for motivation to forge a di erent path, we’ve got two more examples in O.C. entrepreneurs Andrea Galbreath and Leslie Nguyen. Galbreath shares the David vs. Goliath story of her small succulents business against Nike (Page 78). Nguyen is a restaurateur extraordinaire who overcame addiction and is creating interesting spaces for O.C. foodies, including an impressive new location for Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Irvine (Page 80). Given the wild ride we’ve been on for the past few years, I’m eager for encouraging stories about inspirational and courageous people. We think you’ll ﬁnd them in abundance in this issue!

I’ve never felt as trendy as when I sipped a drink at the gorgeous speakeasy Raised by Wolves in La Jolla.

PAGE 56

ocma.art

The new Orange County Museum of Art opens October 8, 2022 on the Segerstrom Center for the Arts Campus in Costa Mesa, CA General admission generously sponsored by Lugano Diamonds. Visit ocma.art to learn all the ways you can join us to celebrate!

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Shelby J. srussell@orangecoast.comRussell DIRECTOR OF SALES Carly callen@orangecoast.comAllen

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alan Gibbons DESIGN DIRECTOR Andrew Hart SENIOR EDITOR Astgik Khatchatryan STYLE & HOME EDITOR Chelsea Raineri DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR Colette Nguyen DINING CRITIC Gretchen Kurz PHOTOGRAPHER Emily J. Davis EVENTS EDITOR Robin Jones COPY EDITOR Shayna Sobol EDITORIAL INTERNS Renee Elefante, Amber Juarez, Daniel Pearson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Benjamin Epstein, R.K. Ferncase, Barbara McMurray, Greg Nagel, Valerie Takahama, Cathy Thomas CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Martha Napier, Kara Pyle ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE LLC 2102 Business Center Drive, Suite 125 Irvine, CA 92614 949-862-1133, orangecoast.com HOURCEOMEDIA Stefan Wanczyk PRESIDENT John Balardo

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Home is tranquil, serenely tucked within the magnificent Rocky Mountains, minutes from Park City and Deer Valley Resort in Utah. Home is exhilarating outdoor adventures inspired by the possibility of each season. Home is a legacy built on a deeprooted desire to share the authentic beauty of land passed down through generations – seamlessly intertwining unparalleled luxury and endless comforts. Home is togetherness. Home is where your legacy begins.

HOME IS RED LEDGES. WELCOME HOME. CUSTOM RESIDENCES AND HOMESITES | $1.2 - $10M+ WELLNESS | SKI | GOLF | TENNIS | DINING | EQUESTRIAN redledges.com | 877.733.5334 THE THE Berkshire Hathaway | Utah Properties Disclaimer: Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. All recreational facilities are privately owned and operated as a club with mandatory membership fees. This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy in Ohio or in any other jurisdiction in which registration or any other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. ©2022 Red Ledges Land Development, Inc. ©2022 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchise of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity. THELANDLEGACYLUXURY

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 19 IN PLAIN SIGHT  THE SCENE The Urban Forest in Huntington Beach Central Park West  GETTING THERE The 2.5-acre park featuring California native plants is located on the southwest corner of Huntington Beach Central Park.  EXPLORER CREDIT Jorge Mendoza @cal.euphoria  BEHIND THE SHOT “While on one of my regular runs, I noticed that the white picket fence along Edwards Street leads to a dirt trail. Looking to explore a new route, I took the trail … and soon came across patches of owers and stopped to take pictures.” PEOPLE PLACES 33°41'38.3"N 118°00'41.1"W

PEOPLE PLACES 20 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 ’HOODS

Top

BARKERYDOGTOPOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPH

326 MAIN ST., 714-655-2266 TO KNOW Dog

The menu at this Mediterranean spot is simple, but the generous portions and super-fresh ingre dients make it stand out. Kebab plates with chicken, beef, kefta, salmon, shrimp, and falafel include rice, pita, hummus, and Greek salad (loaded with peppers, cucumbers, olives, and tomatoes). Takeout business is brisk, but there are also plenty of tables for anyone who wants to linger. 303 THIRD ST., 714-274-9878

180 FIFTH ST., 714-960-3647

Make a day at the coast better with these HUNTINGTON BEACH hot spots. by Robin Jones

HUMMUS BEAN GRILL

Owner Toni Edwards started her roller skate business in 2015, when skates were hard to find. With the activity’s resurgence, her brick-and-mortar shop is busier than ever. Customers can rent a pair of Sure-Grip skates and take a spin on the boardwalk just a few blocks away, order a new pair of cus tom skates, or replace wheels or toe stops on a current pair.

TWO HANDS SEOUL FRESH CORN DOGS

The popular pet store moved from its former location in Pacific City to this spot last year and now offers a full menu of grooming services, from nail trims and haircuts to teeth brushing and ear cleaning, as well as self-serve dog wash stations. Of course, the busi ness still bakes made-to-order bone-shaped dog birthday cakes in three flavors—pea nut butter, peanut butter and banana, and apple and oats.

Corn dogs have always been a beach town staple, but this spot makes them with a Korean twist. The menu features seven varieties, including one smoth ered in Hot Cheetos powder and spicy sauce, and another covered in chunks of potato and deep-fried. Can’t decide? The prices ($3 to $4.49) make it easy to justify ordering one for each hand, with a side of kimchi fries ($4). 401 MAIN ST., 714-549-3348

Ú GOOD

SURF CITY SKATES

TOP DOG BARKERY

OCEAN HANGS

itsgoodiewithparties—completedogcontinuesBarkerytohostbirthdaycakeandfreebags—atnewlocation.

WHAT ARE SOME MATERIALS YOU HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH RECENTLY?

“Project Runway” star Coral Castillo studied fashion design in Orange County. by Daniel Pearson

All the Indigenous people were making embroideries in the streets, and everything was so beautiful and full of color.

Ú In 2019, I went back to Mexico for the first time in a while.

PEOPLE PLACES 22 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 RIVERAIRVINBYPHOTOGRAPH

The art was so rich that I fell back in love with my home. Then, with “Project Runway,” (it was) a great opportunity to show a collection inspired by how beautiful my culture is. So in my last collection, I actually added embroideries handmade by Indigenous people. Most of them live in poverty, so with every embroidery that I used on “Project Runway,” I made sure to go back and pay the person who made the embroidery directly. The show gave me $10,000 for materials, and every single dollar spent on the embroideries made it back to the Indigenous artists.

ou might remember her as the runner-up on the latest season of “Project Runway.” Or maybe you saw her dresses showcased in the January 2022 issue of Vogue. Growing up in Tijuana, Mexico, Castillo thought her dream of becoming a fashion designer was out of reach. She didn’t want to work in a factory; she wanted to make her own pieces by hand. Her fantasy became a reality after she moved to Orange County to study fashion design at the Art Institute of California.

O.C.’S OWN BEHIND THE SEAMS

Ú Most of my pieces in my Genesis collection, from “Project Runway,” were made of macramé. For that, I used cords made out of recycled polyester. It’s very important to be aware of the environment and try to use materials that don’t pollute more, but instead help use what already exists.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO O.C.?

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST EXPOSURE TO FASHION DESIGN?

I also used a new textile that was created in Mexico, made from a cactus called nopal, for the texture of leather.

Ú I got my bachelor’s degree studying fashion design at the Art Institute of California–Orange County in 2012. During that time, I did OC Fashion Week several times. Thanks to (that), I was able to do a 2018 show in Greece at the Athens Xclusive Designers Week. To this day, that event was where I’ve been able to show the most pieces—about 33.

Ú My mom was a dressmaker. She raised us with the pay from her dresses. I remember waking up and going to sleep with the sound of the sewing machine. When I was 6 years old, my mom taught me how to hand stitch. I made myself a top when I was in middle school, and since then I have just loved creating.

WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATIONS?

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off!

Chefs thrive in building a helpful community through upcoming gala. by Alan Gibbons

Michael Puglisi, owner of Electric City Butcher in Santa Ana: “Folks are pre y sel ess. It’s about providing a platform and support for families in need. It’s an amazing opportunity for community to come together. You have this beautiful gala-style event, but on a farm. Everyone’s walking around on the grass but at the same time really trying to shine and be supportive.”

QUOTES

Shachi Mehra, chef-owner of Adya and founder of SpiceGirl Sauces: “Audra does the thing that she wants you to do. … I don’t think there’s anyone I know who doesn’t know someone … a ected by cancer. You meet the children, you meet the people, you see how being a part of this actually changes someone’s life. Even being able to be a tiny part of the support that goes into a family of a child with cancer is such a big deal. Because this is so impactful, that’s what makes it very special personally.”

Glenn ownerTanaka,ofTanakaFarms: “It’s a payit-forward type of thing. Maybe someday you might have to take advantage of this group. As a businessperson, if you have the facilities and ability to do things like this, it’s such a shame if you don’t share it and use it for good. It is a real feel-good experience.” Azmin Ghahreman, chef-owner of Sapphire Culinary Group and Blue Stone Kitchen: “I love what Audra’s doing—bringing (support) to kids in hospitals who are not feeling well and need be er food. How many people get the chance to lead a team of volunteer chefs and cook on an open fire for 600 people and still the food is as good as in a restaurant? I love it!”

axLove Project, a nonproﬁt dedicated to helping families of children with cancer, celebrates its eighth annual Farm to Fork fundraiser at Tanaka Farms on Sept. 17, part of pediatric cancer awareness month. Cofounder Audra DiPadova Wilford is amazed at the group’s growth. “(It’s) really incredible when you think about it. We started this event in such a humble and grassroots manner.” As MaxLove moves into its second decade, Wilford will shift the format of the event. “We’ll be moving away from the gala format to something more intimate and fun. Now we’re sailing through into the next 10 years and into a much bigger vision to accomplish our mission.” Community members involved with Farm to Fork share their passion for it on the eve of its ﬁnal year in this form.

FORWARD THINKING

24 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 PEOPLE PLACES

PROJECTMAXLOVEOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPH

Explore our new Village of Rienda at Rancho Mission Viejo and the opening of Ranch Camp that includes a 20,000 sq. ft. lagoon-style pool, Fitness Center with lap pool and hiking trails on The Nature Reserve. Seven neighborhoods now selling and four new neighborhoods coming late 2022 including Gavilán 55+ single-level living. Learn more at www.RiendaRMV.comBOTANICA by Tri Pointe Homes Two-Story Single-Family Homes DAHLIA by Trumark Homes Two-Story Single-Family Homes Gavilán 55+ single-level living HAVEN by Lennar One & Two-Story Duplex Homes PEARL by Lennar One & Two-Story Single-Family Homes COMING LATE 2022 FROM THE MID $900s TO THE LOW $1 MILLIONS PORTICO by Lennar Three-Story Stacked Flats OASIS by Lennar Three-Story Row Townhomes PAISLEY by Tri Pointe Homes Single-Family Duplex Homes WILDROSE by Tri Pointe Homes Single-Family Homes NOW SELLING FROM THE $500s TO THE LOW $1 MILLIONS SERENITY by Lennar Three-Story Single Family Homes HARVEST by Meritage Homes Two-Story Townhomes EVOLVE by Pulte Homes Two-Story Single-Family Homes © 2022 RMV PA2 Development, LLC. All rights reserved. The information, plans and land uses shown may change without notice or obligation. Floorplans, renderings, design speciﬁ cations and pricing are all subject to change. Imagery represented does not reﬂ ect racial preference.

The inhabitants of UC San Diego’s Birch Aquarium vary from halfinch dwarf seahorses to 6-foot leopard sharks. Tide pool touch tanks and exhibits geared for kids make this a good visit for all ages ($19.95 and up). The newest and most entertaining residents are the Little Blue Penguins. Unveiled in July, the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins exhibit is the only place on the West Coast to see these enchanting seabirds. Signs about conservation provide uplifting action messages.

HOTELVALENCIALAOFCOURTESYGARAY,KYLEBYPHOTOGRAPH

NEW AND BLUE

PERFECT GETAWAY

ULTIMATE ESCAPE

Unwind for a few days of luxury away from home and in another time. La Valencia Hotel, called the Pink Lady, celebrates its 95th anniversary this year with special experiences. See why stars of the past such as Mary Pickford, Ginger Rogers, David Niven, and Gregory Peck were lured to the Spanish Revival property. Extra touches such as painted tile and mirrors that mimic the shape of the iconic bell tower add panache his year is a big one for openings and new exhibits in La Jolla. With a renovated art museum, a boutique hotel that just opened, and the newest residents at the Birch Aquarium, the town o ers lots to see and do, even if you’ve visited many times before. The most iconic places there feel celebratory and updated for visitors. Go this month for a quick getaway now that most of the summer tourists have left, and fall in love with the relaxed yet stylish vibe of this seaside village. ABOVE La Valencia Hotel is a La Jolla landmark.

LA JOLLA

PEOPLE PLACES 26 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

Plenty of new experiences await in this artsy cliffside town with stellar views. by Alan Gibbons T

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Our new state-of-the-art facility in Newport Beach is home to world-renowned cancer and blood disorder specialists who will provide the personalized care you need in an environment designed to make you feel most comfortable. USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 20 cancer programs in the nation and is a leading academic cancer program in Orange County. Our Newport clinic provides easy access to on-site clinical trials and best-in-class care, so you spend less time traveling and more time with those you love. Together we are limitless.

The kind of place where deals and romances happen, Raised by Wolves is a speakeasy at Westfield UTC. Enter what looks like a specialty liquor shop, sit in armchairs by the fireplace, and be transported to a world of mystery and old-world charm as the fireplace rotates. A gorgeous ceiling hovers over the enormous bar with a water feature in the center. Tuck into a small table in the very low light and sip the Goodbye Stranger, featuring whis key, amaro, and Luxardo cherry liqueur ($15). For the well-heeled, the Old-Fashioned features Real Deal 1950 Stitzel Weller Very Old Fitzgerald with bitters for—yes, you’re reading this correctly—$699.

SUNSET SPOT

“I love to pack a picnic lunch from The Cheese Shop in La Jolla and go to the Torrey Pines Glider Port. (You can) sit on the grass cliandparagliderswatchingtakeolandoverthes.I’veneverseenanythingelselikeit.”

LEFT Raised by drinks.withatakesWolvesyouintosecretworldfantastic RIGHT views.perfectBirdseyeTheboastssunset

—BETH DOWNING CHEE, MARKETING DIRECTOR AT BIRCH AQUARIUM TIP FROM A LOCAL MARK

CALENDARYOUR

There is no shortage of restaurants boasting astounding vistas in La Jolla. For food to match the setting, head to George’s at the Cove. Make a reservation for lunch or dinner to sample the seasonal menu. Pasta is a good bet here, so try the fettuc cini with peas, tarragon, parmesan, and breadcrumbs ($26). Service is warm and knowledgeable. REMODELED AND READY After a $105 million renovation, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego ($15 and up) reopened in April. The building now has plenty of space and light to show off its collection of more than 4,700 pieces made after 1950 and still make room for special exhibits. Female artists take center stage in exhibitions such as the recent “Niki de Saint Phalle in the 1960s” and the upcoming “Alexis Smith: The American Way.”

Cormorant Boutique Hotel opened in May and features rooms with clean lines, thoughtful planning, and a place in the center of the action ($220 and up). Hermès bath products and soft robes add to the pampered vibe. There’s no elevator so travel light if your room is on the fourth floor. From there you can open the door of your room and walk five steps to The Birdseye, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant. Incredible sunset views and cocktail flights— mojitos, mimosas, or margaritas in four flavors ($35)—await.

BIRDSEYETHEOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPHPATIOSTONE;K.MARRIEBYPHOTOGRAPHWOLVESBYRAISED

Sept. 24-25. The 13th Annual San Diego Spirits Festival moves to the Museum of Contemporary Art this year with unlimited cocktails from more than 60 brands plus music and access to the galleries. sandiegospiritsfestival.com

HISTORIC THEATER Shows at The Old Globe have gone on to Broadway more than 20 times and won 13 Tony Awards; the recent “Bob Fosse’s Dancin’ ” is likely to continue that trend. It’s worth the drive to Balboa Park to see this month’s extravaganza, “Come Fall in Love—The DDLJ Musical,” which features an acclaimed creative team from India and the U.S.

PEOPLE PLACES 28 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 to breezy rooms that overlook the ocean ($488 and up). Take advantage of the cocktail butler, who brings your custom drink to your room, then dine at the beautiful Mediterranean Room. Its balcony provides fresh air and a lovely view to dive into the sunchoke and heirloom tomato bisque with lobster ($18).

EXCEPTIONAL MEAL

SECRETIVE SIPS

INTERNATIONAL AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR Connie Spenuzza presents her book RunsChocolateThroughMyVeins atBookshopHistoricOxford’s AVAILABLE AT ALL BOOK SELLERS www.ConnieSpenuzza.com

MARIPOSA COUNTY

Mariposa County is steeped in rich mining and western history and is home to Yosemite National Park’s most inspiring natural wonders: Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and El Capitan. Yosemite was designated as UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. It’s no wonder that visiting Yosemite is on the top of so many bucket lists! In Mariposa County’s historic towns, you’ll discover outstanding restaurants, shopping, museums and attractions.

Yosemite is a year-round destination and travel experts recommend a minimum stay of three nights when visiting Yosemite, either for a quiet mid-week stay, or extended weekend visit. With each changing season, new sights, sounds and smells await. Visitors can access Yosemite year-round through Highways 41 and 120 as well as Highway 140, the “All-Weather Highway”, which winds along the beautiful Merced River Canyon before entering Yosemite Valley.

The best place to start your trip planning is at Yosemite.com, the top website for finding the perfect hotels & motels, cabin rentals and bed & breakfasts in the area. Additionally, you’ll find information about historic lodging inside of Yosemite - from the stunning architecture of The Ahwahnee to the historic elegance of the Wawona Hotel or the famous history of Curry Village. Also, inside the park boundary, you can choose from many private vacation rentals in areas like Wawona, Foresta or Yosemite West. Many other lodging options exist outside the park too including the four-diamond resort Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite in Fish Camp, or more budget-friendly lodging options in the historic town of Mariposa and surrounding areas.

Mariposa County is recovering from several devastating wildfires, causing many residents to lose their homes. Over half of our county is employed in tourism, so your visit to our community supports the many families who rely on our tourism economy. Yosemite.com

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Charmaine Wilkerson’s novel, “Black Cake,” launches a pair of O.C. siblings on a journey into their Caribbean-born mother’s secret past. by Valerie Takahama

How do you describe “Black Cake”? Ú The novel gets its title from a traditional Caribbean fruit cake, which, when it’s made for weddings, is made in layers. I o en say the novel is like a layer cake. On the surface, it’s a multigenerational novel that centers on a brother and a sister in present-day California— Orange County born and bred—who grow up and grow apart. They’re forced to come together because their mother has just died and le them an eccentric inheritance: a small black cake si ing in her freezer with instructions that are quite cryptic, and a lengthy voice recording. The mother’s home is in the Anaheim area. Why did you choose that locale? Ú The imagination is like a fertile field, seeded by everything that we have lived, that we’ve heard. Ultimately when I write, I just go with a feeling or an idea. It just came to me naturally that the siblings’ parents se led in Orange County in part because they were very strong swimmers and they loved to surf. But also, this is a family of color. They are a Black family and indeed they’re not going to know a lot of people from the West Indies or the Caribbean. Also, I lived in L.A. County for years, and I worked in Orange County. I also have relatives who live in Orange County. What stands out in your memory about covering O.C. and other parts of the area for KABC-TV in the 1990s?

ilkerson, a former TV news reporter, is on a remarkable literary voyage of her own with her ﬁrst novel. Picked as a best book by People, BBC News, and others, “Black Cake” is a New York Times bestseller and is in development as a Hulu series set to star Tony Award-winning actress Adrienne Warren. Wilkerson talked about the novel from Rome, where she’s based.

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PEOPLE PLACES 32 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

Do you bake a black cake? Ú I do, and it’s not bad in terms of avor. I think my mother really did make the best. When the black cake popped up in the story, I thought, “Aha, that’s where it’s coming from.” The idea of a achment to a traditional recipe that has much more to it than meets the eye. What had to happen to go from being an English plum pudding to being a Caribbean traditional cake with rum and sugar? A lot of things happened, including colonialism, the rum and sugar export economies, forced labor, cultural changes. So it’s a wonderful example of how you can love something and say, “This is tradition, but where does the tradition come from?”

DELECTABLE DEBUT

CULTUREPHILE

Ú I loved being able to meet people and travel everywhere and to see what was going on in the community. Sometimes it was tough, but I can’t think of a be er way to live in a city or a county. Even though I did not live in Orange County, I developed a sense of what some of the challenges were. I was reporting when the county was bankrupt; they had to reorganize the government. I covered the 1993 Laguna Beach fire. We actually saw the fire crest the hill. You have a lot of memories that are painful, but you see the community, you meet people, see what they’re doing for a living, how they’re raising their families.

What do you think about your novel being adapted for a Hulu series? Ú I was delighted to think that highly creative, strong women like Oprah Winfrey of Harpo Productions and Marissa Jo Cerar, Emmy Awardwinning screenwriter from “The Handmaid’s Tale” team (were interested). I was just thrilled that women whose work I admire, and women of color— they didn’t have to be women of color, but they are—were interested.

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SEPT. 14

The Pacific Symphony sends the summer out with a bang. Before the ﬁreworks show set to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, pianist Daniel Hsu plays Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto, and the whole orchestra performs Dvořák’s “New World” symphony. FivePoint Amphitheatre, 14800 Chinon, Irvine, 714-7555788, paciﬁcsymphony.org

SEPT. 7

SEPT. 3

The rap star brings The Big Steppers Tour to Orange County. Expect to hear new songs such as “Count Me Out,” “Savior,” and “N95,” along with past hits such as “HUMBLE.,” “Swimming Pools (Drank),” and “Money Trees.” Baby Keem and Tanna Leone open. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-704-2500, hondacenter.com

SEPT. 4 “PROUD BOY” This staged reading follows two police o cers, LaRhonda Parker and Boyd Sully, whose lives intersect when Parker is assigned to investigate Sully’s role in the death of a Black motorist. The case becomes more complicated when Parker uncovers a photo placing Sully at the Jan. 6 insurrection, and Sully threatens to reveal a secret about Parker’s family if the photo is released. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714-990-7722, curtistheatre.com

JACKSON BROWNE

The folk-rock icon began his music career as a songwriter in the 1960s, when he was a teenager. The Sunny Hills High alum had some of his biggest hits in the 1970s with “Doctor, My Eyes” and “Running on Empty” and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. His 2021 release, “Downhill From Everywhere,” was nominated for the Grammy for Best Americana Album. Paciﬁc Amphitheatre, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714708-1500, pacamp.com

SEPT. 17 “THE MEDIUM CONCEPT”

The Saratoga International Theater Institute, a contemporary theater troupe founded by Tadashi Suzuki and Anne Bogart, stages this critically acclaimed play based on the writings of media theorist Marshall McLuhan. Directed by Bogart, the show examines our relationship with technology. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

CONTEMPORARYCOMPLEXIONS BALLET

ARTSTHEFORCENTERMUSCOOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPH

“LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS”

DON’T MISS IN SEPTEMBER

SEPT. 4

KENDRICK LAMAR

Kendrick Lamar, “Hamilton,” dance, and more by Robin Jones

PEOPLE PLACES 34 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

OPENS SEPT. 16

EVENTS

TCHAIKOVSKY SPECTACULAR

The classic musical comedy tells the story of Seymour Krelborn, a quiet and nerdy ﬂoral assistant who discovers a new type of plant and names it Audrey II after the coworker he admires from afar. Things start to go awry when Audrey II starts talking to Seymour, promising fame and fortune in exchange for her favorite meal: blood. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-4898082, caminorealplayhouse.org

A pair of Alvin Ailey alums—Desmond Richardson and Chapman University artistic professor of dance Dwight Rhoden—founded this company in 1994. Today the dance troupe is known for its creative mix of ballet and hip-hop and the diversity, power, and technical skill of its dancers. The company will perform “Snatched Back From the Edge” and other pieces to be announced. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

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To open its 2022-23 season, the Pacific Symphony will perform the overture to Wagner’s “The Flying Dutchman,” as well as new work from up-and-coming composer Viet Cuong, before concluding the program with Ravel’s iconic “Boléro.” Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, paciﬁcsymphony.org

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Most of the pieces here, drawn from the collection of Kingsley and Cassia Ezenma, were created by Nigerian artists. Some are well known, while others are emerging artists, but all represent the country’s cultural diversity and richness. Muzeo, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714-765-6450, muzeo.org

OPENS SEPT. 23

Before it became a Canadian TV and Netﬂix hit, this story about a Korean family running a convenience store in Toronto was an award-winning stage play. While dealing with customers and the changes in the world around them, the family grapples with its own expectations and dreams. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

“KIM’S CONVENIENCE”

SEPT. 22 THROUGH 24 BRIAN REGAN

PEOPLE PLACES 36 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 THROUGH SEPT. 18

The leafy haven at Cal State Fullerton typically closes in the evening, but for one day a month plant lovers are welcomed in after hours, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum o er free refreshments, and students from the Cal State Fullerton School of Music perform while guests wander the gardens. Fullerton Arboretum, 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657-278-3407, fullertonarboretum.org

SEPT. 20 THROUGH 28 “THE DROWSY CHAPERONE”

A theater fan sits down one evening to listen to the cast recording of his favorite musical, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” to ﬁnd the songs have come to life. As he watches and comments, the characters—a bride and groom on their wedding eve, a clumsy best man, and a drunk chaperone, among others—act out the comedy in his living room. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714738-6595, themuck.org

SEPT. 20 SUMMER STROLL THROUGH THE ARBORETUM

BEETHOVEN & BOLERO

JESSICA KACZMAREK Kaczmarek, a native Californian, heard a Jimi Hendrix album when she was 12 and immediately switched from piano to guitar. When she’s not recording scores for TV and ﬁlm, she’s playing and touring, solo and with bands. In this outdoor concert, she’ll play her signature combination of blues, soul, and roots music. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

The stand-up comedian, known for his observational and self-deprecating humor, made his TV debut in 1991 on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” In the decades since, he has toured the world, released multiple comedy albums, created three Netﬂix comedy specials, and starred in the Amazon Prime comedy series “Loudermilk.” Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-8544646, thebarclay.org

“PATTERNED CONTEMPORARYPERSPECTIVES:NIGERIAN ART FROM THE EZENMA COLLECTION”

“THE ELABORATE ENTRANCE OF CHAD DEITY” Macedonia Guerra is tired of playing the bad guy to hero Chad Deity, so he recruits a new wrestler, nicknamed The Fundamentalist—but it doesn’t turn out exactly the way he expected. This play, a ﬁnalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama in 2010, uses satire to explore racial SEPT. 1

SEPT. 22 THROUGH 24

OPENS SEPT. 21

“HAMILTON” The smash Broadway hit spotlighting the sto ry of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers and the country’s ﬁrst trea sury secretary, returns to Orange County. The winning score, which blends hip-hop with R&B, blues, and jazz, features stand outs such as “My Shot” and “The Schuyler Sisters.” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org OPENS SEPT. 29

“DISSOLVE” Paintings, photography, sculpture, instal lations, and video explore what it means to change from one form to another in this exhibit. The show includes selections from the museum’s permanent collection and two new commissions: “When we listen to the watershed” by multimedia artist Linda Gass, and “THEY: Sanctuary [Allensworth]” by in terdisciplinary artist Kenyatta A.C. Hinkle. UCI Institute and Museum of California Art, 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949-476-0294, imca.uci.edu SEPT. 24 AND 25

An orchestra of professional musicians and Chapman University students will play Michael Giacchino’s score live while the Oscar-winning ﬁlm “Coco” plays on the big screen. The family-friendly movie includes hit songs “Remember Me” and “Un Poco Loco.” Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

PEOPLE PLACES September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 37 identity and the American dream. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714777-3033, chancetheater.com OPENS SEPT. 24

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“ENDLESS SUMMER” Surf culture and the ocean served as the main inﬂuences for pieces in this exhibit. The gallery will feature the work of Wade Koniakowsky and Kristianne Koch Riddle, and the gardens will serve as backdrop for Olga Lah’s work. The artists will be on hand for the opening reception on Sept. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org SEPT. 30

“COCO” IN CONCERT

“THE JOSHUA SHOW: EPISODE 1” This family-friendly show features Joshua Holden and his puppet sidekick, Mr. Nicholas. When Mr. Nicholas discovers something un nerving about himself, Joshua and his friends Larry the Lint and the Wonderbook team up to help Mr. Nicholas rediscover his joy through music, dancing, and laughter. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org OPENS SEPT. 28

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September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 39photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS STYLE HOME CONSIGNED TREASURES  THE FIND Gucci belt ($325), Dior sunglasses ($125), Tom Ford sunglasses ($160), Miu Miu bag ($480), and Valentino boots ($1,000) from San Clemente’s The Revury, an online consignment store  WHERE therevury.com  TURN THE PAGE to read more about The Revury.

 We have more than 500 consigners in 10 states, and we haven’t done any paid marketing. I spend most of my day out on the road meeting with consigners. Some people put their products in a bag on their doorstep; some people want you to come into their closets and ask questions; some people want to mail their products into us, which is free. Our goal is making consigning as frictionless as possible. We also have personal consigner reps who can help you. The emington Fraser started San Clemente’s The Revury with sustainability in mind, giving items a chance at new life. Brands include Gucci, Chanel, and more, all at a ordable prices. The company’s o ces feature ocean views and a retail section where customers can shop by appointment and consigners can get quotes.

How does The Revury work?

How did you start The Revury?

STYLE TALK WITH...

I left my job as an attorney in 2019, and it took me about a year and a half to build out the business. (When the pandemic hit), we luckily were built to be online, and we have a way for consigners to download pre-paid shipping labels. Everyone got stuck at home staring at their closets, and we doubled our inventory in the ﬁrst four months. We had so much product coming in that I needed people here to help me.

The founder shares how she started her O.C.-based online consignment store. by Chelsea Raineri

 I felt like there was a lot of waste (in the fashion industry), and I could see consumer preferences shifting. At that point, The Real Real (a luxury online consignment store) was coming up, and I took notice of it. This is a huge space and it’s untapped, and I think it’s the way of the future because it checks so many boxes. It’s sustainable and it extends the product life cycle, which is important because that prevents the product from ending up in the landﬁll. It reduces the demand on new supply and production, and it also makes products more a ordable.

THE REVURY

STYLE HOME 40 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

May a C ollectio n LONG A FT ER T REND S ARE F ORGO TT EN Outdoors .. . at home. L UXURY TEAK FU RNITURE WESTMINSTER TEAK DEALEROPPORTUNITIESAVAILABLE BUILTTOCONTRACTSPECIFICATIONSWITHPREMIUMQUALITY T EAKFROMRENEWABLEPLANTATION Use Promo Code OC2022 for additional 5% savings VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN ANAHEIM, CA 844.446.00 0 www.teakfurniture.com/oc VISIT OUR FLAGSHIP SHOWROOM IN ANAHEIM, CA

What makes The Revury di erent?  We are the only resale platform that photographs all the products on live models. I think it improves the customer experience. I also pay 100 percent of my sta ’s medical. There are ways to change your budget to make sure your team is taken care of. I’m the lowest-paid person in my company. It’s because I want to make sure that I can have my team covered. If you’re leading a company, you should lead by example.

Remington Fraser gives luxury items a new home through her online consignment store, The Revury. therevury.com

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STYLE HOME 42 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS product must be by a brand on our designer list, and it must be in good condition. We authenticate in-house, and if we can’t (be) certain, then we outsource it to a third party. It takes us about two weeks to get products online from the date of receipt. Consigners can log in and view all their products, sales, and live updates.

(949) thecovington.org281-0174 Schedule Your Visit At The Covington, holistic health and wellness is not just an idea, it is a way of life. Here, you will discover the choices you deserve, the freedoms you desire, and flexibility you can count on. Enjoy e ortless, resort-style living in the heart of Aliso Viejo. Entirely invested in you. Confidence matters. The Covington is a member of the ECS family of communities. Celebrating 100 years. Proudly nonprofit. 3 Pursuit Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 RCFE 306-002255, SNF 060000937, COA 224

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Small 1990s retro color tone metal oval sunglasses, $10.95, ZeroUV, Rodeo 39 Public Market, 714-847-4525 Jacket, $3,290, and trousers, $990, Alexander McQueen, South Coast 657-205-4477Plaza, Emily P. flamingoWheelerombré cigar ring, 949-612-2646LidoElysewalker,$7,400,MarinaVillage, Jacquemus Le Bambino long suede shoulder bag, $975, Neiman Marcus, Fashion 949-759-1900Island, Isla sleeveflutter-top, $188, 714-754-7895SouthIntermix,CoastPlaza, Alexander Wang Dahlia rhinestone logo sandal, $495, SouthNordstrom,Coast 714-549-8300Plaza, 1 Wheeler

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STYLE HOME 44 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 FINDS

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If you don’t have air conditioning, then have a fan, cooling mats or blankets, and a water fountain for kitties. You can make really fun frozen treats for dogs and cats. Some people don’t know that dogs sweat through their paws. You can put cold water or rubbing alcohol on them to help them get cool.

SIGNS OF OVERHEATING …

HOSPITALANIMALSTONECREEKOFCOURTESYHEADSHOTZEBALLOS;ROBERTOBYPHOTOGRAPHSPROPERTY

First, they’re going to be panting. Check if their saliva is foamy. They’ll be more lethargic or maybe not responding to you as they normally would. If their gums are sticky, that means they’re dehydrated. Their gums are supposed to be a normal pink color, but if they’re really red or pale, then those are signs that you need to get them seen pretty soon. If they’re panting while you’re on a walk, carry them or get to a shady area and have them breathe and relax.

BEST WAYS TO KEEP PETS COOL …

STYLE HOME 46 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 ON THE MARKET COOL OFF $12.5 SunsetmillionBeach  6,081 square feet  3 bedrooms  7 bathrooms  This three-story home has 70 feet of beach frontage.  Of note: Take a dip in the pool with a beachfront deck and rinse off at the outdoor shower.  16401 S. Pacific Ave.  Charles 562-505-2580Buscemi, WISDOMFROM a veterinarian WHEN TO WALK YOUR DOG …

Alexis Pico is a doctor of veterinary medicine at Stonecreek Animal Hospital. She shares advice for keeping your pets cool this month.

Early morning or late afternoon. Most dogs can tolerate 75 degrees outside. Short-nosed breeds and younger dogs can be a little more intolerant. Once it’s 80 degrees, start to pay attention … and bring them inside.

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1 STOOLS “We love the brass. (The chairs) add warmth to that area,” Lincoln says. $398 2 PENDANTS “These are some of Aly’s and my favorites because they’re so classic.” $1,094 3 PLANTS “These plants are a combination of real and fake. We spent a ton of time trying to find fake plants that look real.” $28 to $498 4 RUG “It’s hard to find earth tones in a vintage rug. I love the browns, greens, and taupe that are in it.” $9,474 5 COCONUTS “We love having fresh produce out, and these are a nod to natural elements and the coast. Plus they last a long time.”

ROOMS WE LOVE TIME TRAVELING

This multipurpose living space features vintage and modern pieces. Chelsea Raineri 1 4 2 3

wners Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln expanded their Newport Beach inte rior design studio, Pure Salt Interiors, in April to include a showroom where customers can shop furniture and decor curated by the pair. The front room invites with repurposed vintage furniture. “We love reimagining things from the past,” Lincoln says. “If you like it today, there’s obviously a timeless aspect to it.” For example, the piece lining the walls was originally an apothecary cabinet in the late 1800s. Lincoln suggests styling this type of piece in a kitchen or even as a bar. 881 W. 16th St. Newport 949-791-8021Beach puresaltinteriors.com

STYLE HOME 48 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

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HOME

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 51photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS FOOD DRINK CHARRED BEET SALAD  THE DISH Beets accompanied by smoked yogurt, mustard frill, citrus, cucumber, and avocado  THE DETAILS The item is one of many new additions to the dinner menu.  THE PRICE $12  THE PLACE Rum Social  TURN THE PAGE for our review.

LEFT Tuna poke, the Hemingway and Fishers lemonade cocktails RIGHT The second oor at Rum Social evokes a treehouse vibe.

photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 53 FOOD DRINK 448 S. 949-549-4014LagunaHighwayCoastBeach 5 BEST DISHES Hamachi crudo Crispy sweet ‘n’ sour duck Grilled prawns Caribbeancassolette RS Cuba Libre cocktail PRICE RANGE Starters and sides, $7 to Entrees,$24$24 to $60 Cocktails, $15 to $20 FYI Paid parking available in rear garage on Glenneyre.

eed a staycation? Newcomer Rum Social is a most intriguing des tination now that the summer tourists have left Laguna Beach. The Coast Highway venue welcomes locals with some spi y new digs, tropical island-in spired cuisine, and luscious cocktails. Open since April in the former home of Watermarc, the spot is a dapper upgrade to historic Pep pertree Lane. Enter from Coast Highway and a staircase beckons, though many diners are seated on the first floor, with a mega window open to the lively sidewalk scene. Dark-wood tables, brass sconces, etched-glass dividers, and sheer cur tains over casement windows lend a whi of pre-Castro Havana. Small tables provide most of the seating, though four plush booths accom modate larger parties. Upstairs, it’s another world of treetop tables, palm tree murals, and flatscreen loops of turquoise waters lapping at white sand beaches. A handsome square bar is where every drop of cocktail magic is conjured. Despite the dissimilar settings, they share one menu. How nice that brunch and dinner menus boast dishes we haven’t seen. O.C. vet eran chefs Jered Adams and Nick Herrera rule the kitchen and bar, and they’ve clearly trav eled well beyond past gigs at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, Playground, and Taco María. “Caribbean” is the category Rum Social claims, but that label is both too narrow and too broad. Flavor profiles borrow from Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Malaysia, even Japan. And what about N those ingredients that are Basque, Vietnamese, and Chinese? You get the idea. “Tropical” is a better designation, though not exact. Menu choices pretty much demand blurring boundaries. I suggest the sides best belong in the firsts section, as they’re all portioned for sharing. My first visit saw Hamachi crudo, sweet and sour duck leg, Haitian roasted chickpeas, and fried bamboo rice crowding the table. The duck, while flavorful, wasn’t crispy and wasn’t easy to share given it was on the bone and included a spoon ful of Asian-type slaw. Squeaky fresh, the raw yellowtail’s brightness stood up to the tart cit rus and Shark sauce—the sprinkling of crushed corn dust recalls a Peruvian ceviche. Chickpeas were a logistical challenge, the roly-poly garbanzo beans on a flat plate defied spearing with forks. Chopsticks would help to share these, the crudo and the plantains, too. Billed as a side dish incorporating smoked MAIN COURSE

RUM SOCIAL Indulge in a tropical getaway while dining at this Laguna Beach newbie. by Gretchen Kurz

Now serving a new line of specialty cocktails!

Hamachi crudo with citrus and Shark sauce sofrito, Uncle Ken’s Fried Rice lacked punch, but perhaps that’s the best way to showcase the jade-hued rice’s delicate ﬂavor. I confess adding a touch of soy and Togarashi to polish o the leftovers. Grilled prawns are overly salty on one visit but vibrant and fetching the next. Skip the bland garlic noodles and instead share the Brussels sprouts with XO sauce, crispy onions, and shiso. Roasted spiced heirloom carrots are ﬂawless, if you can ignore the paltry portion. Caribbean cassolette, though typically a cool-weather short rib entree, was dish of the night one July dinner—a stew of tender pulled beef, white beans, and greens sloshing in a sublime braising jus. Jerk chicken is one of Jamaica’s hallmark dishes; here the leg is elevated with duck fat black beans, bamboo rice, and sprightly escabeche. Chocolate worshippers take note: The chocolate pudding was more of a lovely caramel budino. Select gelato flavors

FOOD DRINK come from colossally popular Gelato Paradiso across the alley. Cocktails are worthy of their own review. It’s clear much thought is behind the 18 signature drinks using top-shelf spirits. Retro stemware is a nice touch, and the bartenders never scrimp on presentation. If the rumor is true, I’m up for the rum tasting. Service is too uneven to rate. On multiple visits, the hospitality was by turns careless, gracious, lazy, and accommodating. To be fair, many other restaurants on my circuit delivered similar results all Continualsummer.shuffling of dishes indicates Rum Social is eager to ﬁne-tune the novel fare—a promising sign from this rookie enterprise. What isn’t changing is the tropical mindset and sultry setting, so keep your eye on this nearby retreat that could well become your back-pocket island getaway.

YUMMI DUMPLINGS got its start in May 2020, offering more than 20 types of handcrafted, premium-quality dumplings that easily can be cooked and enjoyed at home. Dumplings range from xiao long bao to wontons, and select items are available with no MSG. Packs of 30 range from $24 to $33. Order at yummidumplings.com 4 3 1 2

DUMPLINGSYUMMIOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPH

MADE ORANGEINCOUNTY Tustin

608 Dahlia, Inside Sherman Library & Gardens 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar 949-220-7229

BLOSSOMSTEMPURASQUASH

by Alan Gibbons

2 The stu ing is a mix of three cheeses—goat cheese, bu alo mozzarella, and rico a—whipped with fresh herbs from Sherman Gardens 3 Charred white corn from Irvine’s Manassero Farms and fresh tarragon sauce are also in the dish. 4 Toasted breadcrumbs, pepitas, and blossoms—also from Sherman Gardens—accent the plate.

FOOD DRINK 56 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS THE BREAKDOWN

1 The squash blossoms come from Valdivia Farms in Carlsbad.

Jessica Roy, chef-owner of 608 Dahlia in Corona del Mar, has launched special seasonal dinners—intimate evenings at the Sherman Gardens spot. “We are also looking forward to showcasing our wine-based, gardeninfused cocktails,” Roy says. “They are super flavorful, boutique, and handcrafted.” The end-of-summer event is Sept. 9, but these summer squash blossoms are also available at lunch ($18).

VIP ONLYFEATURINGEVENT Top Local Chefs Premium Cocktails More Than 100 Wines Live Music and Great Vibes Saturday, October 1st Get tickets at PacificWineandFood.com OCfoodies

FOOD TRENDS

ANYTIME HAWAIIAN offers “BBQ and local food” opposite Disneyland, the newest of half a dozen California locations. The interior combines Hawaiian and Mickey Mouse themes; seating is outside. The garlic chicken plate is the top draw. Combos—pairs, trios, and feasts featuring pork, beef, chicken, and shrimp—are a specialty; the seafood mix brings butterfly shrimp and mahi-mahi. Start with the Shanghai lumpia musubi; there are seven other versions on the menu. Call to confirm hours. 1650 S. HARBOR BLVD., ANAHEIM, 714-844-2789

Island-style barbecue spots are enjoying a surge. by Benjamin Epstein

Four friends raised on L&L Hawaiian launched SHOOTZ HAWAIIAN in 2020, offering “Hawaiian-inspired food from the soul” at Rodeo 39. Now in a larger space at the food hall, it serves 5,000 hot kimchi butter chicken katsu sandwiches a month and tiki drinks such as the Blue Hawaiian. Musubi gets all dolled up with Spam brûlée and honey-coconut shrimp versions. Plate options go beyond the winning katsu chicken and short ribs to jalapeno-garlic shrimp. The infectiously cheery logo is a pineapple in sunglasses with a surfboard. 12885 BEACH BLVD., STANTON, 714-379-7077

“Uncle Mel” and “Aunty Riki” Liufau had a Polynesian dance studio in Anaheim when, in 1996, they opened a restaurant next door.

MATIKI ISLAND BARBECUE has grown to five locations including a no-frills new spot in Huntington Beach. The top-selling Sam’s Plate (No. 1 on the menu) has never Kahunajuicy,ribs,gargantuanchanged—threeteriyakibeefdeliciouslycharredandservedwithsidesofriceandnot-gooeymacaronisalad.FamiliesoptfortheBigcombo. 16561 BOLSA CHICA ST., HUNTINGTON BEACH, 714-698-8225

ONO HAWAIIAN BBQ spreads aloha spirit via more than 100 locations. The spiffy new one in Santa Ana has yellow chairs and surfboards and Inhibiscus-splashedturquoise-fabrics.additiontotheexpectedbarbecuechicken,kalbiribs,andSpam&eggsareless-expectedimitation-crabRangoon,IslandFirechicken,andIslandWhiteFishkeikimeal.Nowmarkingits20thyear,theDiamondBar-basedrestaurantchainisoneofthefastestgrowingintheU.S.—saleshavedoubledinrecentyears.

FOOD DRINK 58 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

2130 S. BRISTOL ST., SANTA ANA, 714-432-8388

NEW-WAVE HAWAIIAN

SHOOTZOFCOURTESYLEE,FRANKWONHOBYPHOTOGRAPH

Experience the giant Charcuterie and Champagne tent The Taco Garden serving the best tacos in Orange County from your favorite restaurants San Simeon Beach Wine Lounge Visit PacificWineandFood.com to see what else is new and get tickets before they are gone! NEW to the 2022 Saturday, October 1st

SEPT 29 8 PM The dazzling Tony Award winner lights up our stage at this concertone-night-onlyevent! Bernadette Peters An Eveningwith Segerstrom Center presents SCFTA.org MEDIA PARTNER

The review stirred memories of the reporter I knew when I worked for the Newport Ensign newspa per in the early ’80s. Je rambled around the area on assignment while I developed and printed pho tographs in the sulfurous Black Hole of Calcutta they called a dark room. Je was about my age, and we shared a love of movies. He liked gritty ﬁlms such as “Raging Bull,” while I admired more o eat ﬂicks like “The Man Who Fell to Earth.”

Reconnecting with a famous friend from a bygone O.C. by R.K. Ferncase R ating one’s given name with a single letter, as in “T. Coraghessan Boyle”?

Maybe, I thought, and read on to see what Je was up to in his latest tome. The book’s title, “A Thousand Steps,” alluded to a fabled local beach below Ninth Street in Laguna Beach, inaccessible but for a long crumbling set of concrete steps leading to the sandy shore below. I knew well the shops he wrote about in his book. As a teen in the late ’60s, I often thumbed rides south from Corona del Mar to spend Saturdays ﬂipping through records at Sound Spectrum, perus ing the paperbacks at Fahrenheit 451, marveling at the art nouveauon-acid posters at the Mystic Arts World head shop, and squandering weeks of allowance on hippie accou trements like joss sticks, tissue-thin body shirts, and a groovy leather fringed vest—all at various Aquar ian boutiques lining Coast Highway.

Je described these landmarks and others in his new book, but viewed them through a noir lens, with a title that suggested more of a link with dark thrillers like Alfred Hitchcock’s archetypal ﬁlm “The 39 Steps” than with any of the black-light 1960s psy chedelia I once treasured.

‘See You in Laguna’

MY O.C. September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 61

ising early one morning to write, I found myself wasting time online again. I waded into The Wall Street Journal and a review of a new mystery by T. Je erson Parker, a writer I’d known in my 20s simply as Je . I assumed his current nom de plume was a nod to Thomas Je erson. Or maybe it was just an a ectation—Wikipedia told me Je ’s “T” didn’t stand for anything. Could that be the key to a successful writing career, abbrevi

illustration by KARA PYLE

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MY O.C. We found common ground in a film we both liked—Robert Altman’s “The Long Goodbye”—which cast Elliott Gould as a shambling, out-of-touch Philip Marlowe bumbling about in the 1970s.Je and I clicked after I hauled a 16mm projector into the newsroom to show an award-winning film I’d made at Orange Coast College called “Triskelion.” My seven-minute animated/ live-action short about three local artists and their metaphysical adventures mystified employees who gathered to watch. Je seemed to appreciate my little film, screened at the Port Theater, L.A. Filmex, and what was then the Newport Harbor Art Museum. Je and I left the Ensign at about the same time in the fall of 1981, he to work as a reporter for the slightly more prestigious Daily Pilot, and I to attend film school. We stayed in touch, and he generously allowed me and a band of friends into the Pilot newsroom one weekend, where we shot scenes for my first motion picture project at UCLA. One day, I called Je to grouse about my underwhelming first season showing photographs at a local art festival. I sold just one print of a famous “medieval” cli side tower at Victoria Beach—not far from Thousand Steps. Je sensed a story and o ered to let me vent my frustration in a column he wrote for the Pilot. At the last minute, I reconsidered, and when Je arrived, I told him I’d prefer a more upbeat approach. He scotched the interview, and that was the last I saw of him. Until July of 2017. I’d returned to the festival after a long hiatus and sat at my tiny booth when I heard a voice call my name. I turned to see Je , who introduced me to his female companion as that “arty, cynical” guy who used to man the photo lab at the Ensign. I had opted not to enter the film industry, I told them, embarking instead on a 30-year career as a professor at Chapman University in Orange. Meanwhile, Je had won acclaim as a successful novelist.

NOW I WAS INTRIGUED WITH HIS latest book. I wanted to see how he’d spun his experiences in Orange County to artfully meld a murder mystery with a coming-of-age yarn. It seemed, after all those decades, Je and I were both making art about the place we’d grown up. Now retired, I’d taken up writing myself.Isurfed his website and saw several local appearances scheduled, but they had passed or were canceled due to pandemic concerns. I felt driven to connect, much like his youthful hero embarking on a search for his missing sister. I almost booked a ﬂight to Arizona to catch him at a university book fair when I learned the Newport Beach Public Library would soon host a happy hour with the novelist. I bought my

And did I even have an ending for my story after all this? My regrets subsided when I saw an email appear in my inbox—Je had read the story and wrote to say he “really enjoyed” my essay and mused about our talks about movies and our mutual memories of Laguna Beach 50 years ago. He even liked my pen name, which contained not one, but two initials. “If you have some inkling you’d like to write ﬁction based on your experiences,” he wrote, “you should do that. … Close-to-your-own writing is often the best.” He closed the note the same way he said goodbye after his library appearance. “See you at the Festival of Arts this summer in Laguna.” I was stoked. As his latest protagonist (and my adolescent self) might proclaim, “Bitchin!” And the meaning of that “T”? It wasn’t really a mystery. Indeed, it didn’t stand for anything. It was his mother’s idea. “It would look good on the White House door.”

he answered: to give a greater sense of urgency to the story. “I might even write my next one in present tense, too,” he added. I still wish I’d gotten further into the book so I could have asked a meatier question. WHEN THE INTERVIEW ENDED, I lingered at the podium and wondered if I should approach him again. I chatted a little more with him on the way out and met his wife. I told him I was still exhibiting at the Festival of Arts, and as we parted in the parking lot, he reached out to shake my hand, something I’d rarely done in a year of pandemic. “Please read my story,” I said. “You’ll get a kick out of it—it’s about you.” “I will,” he said. “See you in Laguna thisThrilledsummer.”asI was, I began to fret as I walked to my car. Did I commit a major faux pas, pushing my essay on him?

MY O.C. September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 63 ticket and a copy of “A Thousand Steps” and waited for the evening to arrive. I wanted to snatch a minute or two at most with Je and quiz him on the meaning of that mysterious “T.” With the novel tucked under my arm, I headed to the library’s patio where a small crowd gathered. I sat on a bench near a table where two women sold copies of his book. Je arrived unnoticed and sat beside them. It was all very low-key. I worked up the courage to approach when I saw people start to queue up, so I waited my turn and introduced myself. Je seemed relaxed, and he did indeed remember me. He introduced me to the women at the table while I presented my book for his signature. He signed the title page with a short message: “For Rick, enjoy the ﬂashback.” When I asked him about the meaning of the “T,” he promised he’d explain it later that evening. Then I handed him an envelope with this According7Imagazinestill-in-need-of-a-proper-endingstoryinside.Heplaceditonthetabletopbesidehimwithwhatinterpretedasavaguelybemusedresponse,andIwonderedifIhadoversteppedmyboundaries.Ihadseenmanyafanpushascreenplayorvideotapeintothehandsoffamousﬁlmmakersanddidn’twanttolooklikeIwantedsomethingfromhim.Whenpeoplebegantowanderintothemainauditorium,IfoundanaisleseatnearthefrontwhereIhadaprimeviewofthespeakerandhisinterviewer.Jelistenedpatientlyastheyounginterviewerwonderedaloudabouthowonemightwriteaboutcharacterswhocouldn’tuseacellphonetohelpthemoutofajam.Herevealedhisobservanceofastricta.m.-to-5p.m.,Monday-through-Fri-dayschedulewithanhourbreakforlunch.CouldIdothat,Iwondered?toKenBurns,evenErnestHemingwayknockedomostafter-noonsafteramorningofwriting.Iaskedwhatpromptedhimtowritehislatestnovelinpresenttense,and

How would he take it? Would this be the last I’d see or hear of Je Parker?

64 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BE YOUR OWN

by Renee Elefante, Alan Gibbons, Robin Jones, Astgik Khatchatryan, Colette Nguyen, and Chelsea Raineri photographs by Emily J. Davis

Whether your passion is fashion, food, or farming, starting a business can be daunting. These 10 O.C. entrepreneurs disregarded the naysayers and forged their own paths. They share what they’ve learned along the way, including the best and worst advice they’ve received and the biggest surprises that came with running a business.

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 65

really hard. We had a lot of obstacles that came with making a reusable pad. Whether it was finding a manufacturer that was staying away from using chemicals in the fabrics (or) just constructing the pad was di icult. In the end, it all turned into something really beautiful.

KHLOE THOMPSON

66 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BOSS

Just keep going. Keep on pushing on. I feel like a lot of times, things get

BEST ADVICE…

A 15-year-old CEO from Yorba Linda and founder of PeachTree Pads

I think it was seeing the finished pad done and complete. That was crazy to look at. And realizing that I started with this odd-looking pad, but now moved onto this beautiful thing—that was the biggest surprise. It was just seeing how far we came.

MY BUSINESS… We make reusable and eco-friendly menstrual pads. What inspired me to make this specific product was that my mom was ge ing really sick around her periods. She came to me because I love designing, making, and selling things. She was like, “Can you make me something to help me with my menstrual cycle?” I’m all about everything reusable, eco-friendly, and I was learning that pads are 80 percent plastic. … I thought, I need to make something that’s good for your body and also is reusable, because plastics are really a ecting our oceans and just our world in general.

BIGGEST SURPRISE…

OUR BUSINESS …

THE BIGGEST SURPRISE …

WHAT WE HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY …

James: I build stu every day and do repairs. I also take the goats on walks every Saturday and Sunday.

LANI AND JAMES JONES

Lani: This was a retired show horse pasture for my dad. I grew up on the ranch across the street. My father passed away in 1995, and my stepmother was just renting this property out to contractors. About 10 years later, James asked my stepmom to sell (the property) to him. It was just dirt with a bunch of junk on it and a fence. James has built every single thing since about 2013. We got our first two goats when (our granddaughter) was a year old, for Christmas. Our job now entails (being) vets, birthing; we’re like goat doulas, midwives, and lactation specialists. I also buy for my shop and create bath products I make myself. My job is to manage everything. We have a clothing boutique as well as our shop, and we feature a lot of really cool local women entrepreneurs.

James: That it’s successful. It’s such an odd thing, goat yoga. Lani: It doesn’t seem like something that would be so crazy good, but you can’t believe the support. We have regular customers who bring people back month a er month a er month. They book parties, they come shop here, they love the goats, and they are so loyal to us. I didn’t know that a business could bring me so many beautiful friends and so much gratitude in my heart for the general public. The way they receive us is such an amazing blessing, and it’s just been so incredibly fulfilling.

Lani: Herd management. Sometimes when you’re a kid who grows up on a ranch, you think you know everything already and that you can just blow through. We have limited vet possibilities down here. I learned that when you bring in new goats, even though I did the three-week quarantine, sometimes there’s something there you don’t know about. I lost a lot of goats a couple of years ago because of that, and it was beyond tragic. I have to be ultra-diligent because if something happens to my animals, I don’t have a business. They’re not only my children and the loves of my life, but they actually keep us a oat; without them we can’t function.

The owners of San Juan Capistrano’s Goods and Goats Market, which features activities including goat yoga

WHAT WE HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY …

I’m like a chemist, and I have to figure out the perfect formula for everything to come together.

Heri: We’re a business that is inspired by my wife’s Peruvian culture and our Latin American culture. We try to find natural organic ingredients from other local or small businesses and create natural products that people can enjoy and get in touch with our Indigenous roots. People feel good coming into our spot, and we try to make it more than just a store. We have other things in there such as spiritual crystals and … handmade bags and things that represent my wife’s culture.

Heri: We’ll create something … and then pass it on to some close friends and family or even some of our best customers who are hoping to get in on some of the prereleases. They’ll take it and tell us, “Yeah, this is great. I think I would buy it.” And then we’ll start pushing it up.

68 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BOSS OUR BUSINESS …

Yajaira: Running the business and trial and error on the products. I have to test the makeup products; if I’m not satisfied, I’m not going to put them out there for the public.

Owners of Garden Grove’s Pura Tierra Inka Blends

YAJAIRA AND HERI MORALES

2 Find a Mentor: SCORE Orange County is a nonproﬁt o ering volunteer mentor-matching, free workshops, and more. orangecountyscore.org 3 Get Marketing Help: Not every small business can a ord an advertising agency. Fortunately, colleges such as Cal State Fullerton o er local businesses the chance to get custom campaigns and projects delivered by a student-run agency. practicaladvantagecomm.org

THETAKINGLEAP

Do you think you might be a budding entrepreneur? Here are three tips:

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 69OAST

1 Take a Course: If you’re considering starting a business but don’t know where to start, check out some of the low-cost programs o ered through O.C. community colleges. Orange Coast College, for instance, has a six-week online “Start Your Own Small Business” course ($115). ed2go.com/occ

SCHELLINGERHOUTHANKBYPHOTOGRAPHCOLLEGECOASTORANGE

THE BIGGEST SURPRISE … Yajaira: My biggest surprise is we opened the store (and around 100) people came to support us that day. I’m never going to forget that outpouring of love from our customers and our small-business friends. Heri: We do everything ourselves— the paint on the wall and the crates on the oor that display everything— it all comes from us. ... We’re really proud of our li le shop. When everybody came in (the day we opened), they were very impressed; we take pride in it.

Vogels: We got started in 2019, because Diana and I both have our own small businesses and so we found the need to create a unique pop-up market. It’s a curated openair market that brings local artisans and families together. There, you can find all kinds of di erent kids’ cra s, DIY stations, live music, backdrops, photo opportunities, and kids’ entertainment.

BIGGEST SURPRISE…

DIANA MORALES ANDVOGELSSARAH

Vogels: Diana and I have both been very shocked at how well Creative Communal has been received in the community and how many people love this concept. I think the pandemic actually benefited Creative Communal because people were looking for outdoor activities.

WHAT WE HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY…

Cofounders of Creative Communal Makers Market, which hosts pop-ups in O.C.

Morales: We had a lot of opportunities when people would reach out to us to host an event, and we would take all of them because we didn’t want to lose a partnership. But we ended up saturating the market in a certain area. For instance, in Orange County, if we were popping up in Costa Mesa and the following weekend in Anaheim then Huntington Beach, that’d be working against us because we were oversaturating that area rather than dispersing our markets. So we learned to be more selective with our partnerships.

MARKETMAKERSCOMMUNALCREATIVEOFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPH

70 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BOSS

OUR BUSINESS…

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 71 MY BUSINESS …

When the business failed the first time, it was me being young and immature and prioritizing hanging out with friends. I just wanted to clean cars, but I didn’t know that when you’re a business owner, you have to deal with customers, follow up, and answer questions. You have to build and maintain those relationships.

THE WORST ADVICE I RECEIVED … “The customer is always right.” That’s the worst advice. The customer might be misinformed, and it’s our job to help them by having good communication and explaining what we do. TRAN owner of Studio 94 in Huntington Beach

I started a TikTok in May of last year because I noticed there was a lot of confusion about detailing. People thought it was like $3,000 to get a car detailed, when it starts closer to $300. And that’s still expensive for a lot of people, so I wanted to show them how to do it on their own. I started documenting my process and educating people online. What I learned is when you don’t gatekeep, people trust you more and want to give you their business. I’m at 1.6 million followers now on TikTok, and I harnessed that to open my own shop earlier this year.

It’s an auto detailing business specializing in deep cleaning and enhancing cars. In high school, my basketball coach had a detailing business and would o er us the opportunity to make money washing cars. I loved it and did it every chance I got. When he retired, I launched my own business. It completely tanked. I was 21 years old and didn’t know how to run a business. But three years ago, I fully relaunched, and it’s been going up ever since. I now have five employees.

The

THE BIGGEST SURPRISE …

WHAT I HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY …

JESSICA

I just realized there’s so much I need to do as a white woman to be a voice and an ally, so I decided that (donating 10 percent of my proceeds to di erent Black Lives Ma er groups) was a way that I could give. I try to support Blackowned businesses as much as I can.

I’ve been told not to stick with owers, from di erent people. Their idea of success is a retirement plan. ... I want to build myself up for success, but I also want to enjoy what I’m doing. The worst advice someone told me is that the only way I’ll make money is by doing weddings. And then I realized that that wasn’t true—especially now, that’s definitely not true. I hardly do weddings, and the weddings I do are in line with my style. I think it’s nice to not say yes because of the money. I try to say yes because I click with the person.

THE WORST ADVICE I RECEIVED …

MEREDITH AMBRUSO A ﬂorist from Los Alamitos and owner of Ambruso Flowers

72 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BOSS MY BUSINESS …

I’ve been a freelance orist since 2015. I do a lot of owers for di erent events and photo shoots, weddings, editorial, and production. I really love it. You get to meet fun people and get these opportunities to make things. In April 2020, I wasn’t doing owers at all; I felt that no one was going to buy them. I wasn’t sure what I was going to do, and then my friends who own Daydream Surf Shop (in Costa Mesa) asked if I wanted to do owers for Mother’s Day. At that time, there was a news article out about Ahmaud Arbery.

WHAT I HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY

I do these big events and people spend so much money on owers, but I was just in this country where that is unheard of. But there’s also a lot of beauty in owers, and they make people feel good. Flowers aren’t always meant for a special day like a wedding. Some people are going through a really hard time or had a loss and are ge ing owers for a funeral. During COVID, more than half of my deliveries at that time were for people going through a hard time.

…

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 73 OUT OF THE TANK Sound familiar? These O.C. companies have appeared on TV’s “Shark Tank.” TrophySmack Brea Custom fantasy football trophies Tandm Surf San Clemente Inflatable bodyboardstandem Dirty Cookie Irvine Edible cookie cups Hamboards Huntington Beach skateboardsSurf-training Slyde Handboards San Clemente Hand planes for bodysurfi ng Locker Board San Clemente Skateboards that fit in a locker PolarPro Costa Mesa Camera gear Shark Wheel Lake Forest Skateboard wheels Guardian Bikes Irvine Bicycles featuresenhancedwithsafety Thompson Tee Anaheim undershirtsSweat-proofABCOFCOURTESYWILLARD,CHRISTOPHERBYPHOTOGRAPHTANK”“SHARK

I had gone to volunteer at an orphanage in Haiti, and when I got back I had a really hard time feeling like what I was doing had purpose.

The designer and founder of EB Denim who grew up in Newport Beach MY BUSINESS …

74 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BOSS

Figuring out how to hold my ground and negotiate. When I came into producing my own denim as a very young female, I had no idea how to go about negotiation. It took me actually having to make mistakes. I didn’t have any formal background in fashion and production, so I had to learn how things work the hard way.

ELENA BONVICINI

WHAT I HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY …

THE WORST ADVICE I RECEIVED …

It’s a very small team, so we wear many hats—I’m pre y much involved in overseeing the entire business. I definitely look to the past a lot (for design inspiration). Fashion is cyclical, so I’ll see what worked. I’ll go to Pinterest and find old silhoue es that I think are coming back into style. I’ll look to muses like Brigi e Bardot and Jane Birkin. I started EB Denim around 2016. I was selling shorts, which I thri ed and cut, in my high school locker room. Then I learned how to sew, and it kind of just snowballed. I would say it’s been a legitimate company for the past year and a half. It’s crazy how we were able to surface through COVID because our competitors weren’t able to produce goods. But since we were working with vintage Levi’s, we were able to turn around product really quickly. We were using social media, and everyone was just kind of glued to their phone. We were able to ourish. It was crazy how it worked out, and we came out the other end of it stronger than ever.

I think at the beginning, I was told to do wholesale from the jump, and I think it’s bad advice because I was able to use social media as a tool to figure out what works for me. I was able to create a brand without relying on any retailers, and then we were at the point where we had enough of our own identity, and retailers started reaching out to us. We’re at 12 retailers, and they’re all top doors including Revolve, Bergdorf Goodman, Aritzia, FWRD, Fred Segal, and more.

MY BUSINESS … I launched the brand in June of 2021 with the goal of helping people live a healthier lifestyle. People seemed more willing than ever to embrace healthy alternatives, and they were learning about the side e ects of refined sugars. I’ve been working in the date industry for 12 years, on the wholesale side. I wanted to make dates more available to consumers, in di erent forms that people can use on a daily basis. Here in California, most people know about dates, but not everyone knows that you can use them as a natural sweetener, and that dates are packed with fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

The owner of Irvine’s Let’s Date, a company that sells date-based food products

THE BIGGEST SURPRISE …

WHAT I HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY … Really, everything is hard. It felt like we were starting the business not from the ground up, but from under the ground— building relationships, ge ing the right team to work with, and working with a very limited budget. We learned as we grew, and every day I learned something new about all the di erent parts of the business, from accounting to sales to marketing.

Patience, consistency, honesty: Those are the main three things, learned from my dad. Starting this company was really di icult, and I would find myself thinking, “You need to quit this and look for a job.” But I decided to continue, and build the brand, and now it’s available in hundreds of stores.

The first year was full of surprises, but the main one was that I didn’t expect the company to be growing this fast, considering market dynamics and the global economic issues. It proved to me that anything is possible, if you have the right message, the right product, and the right management. It motivates me to work even harder and invest more of my e orts and energy. It gives me hope.

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 75

NOOR YASEEN

THE BEST ADVICE I’VE RECEIVED …

THE BEST ADVICE I RECEIVED … Don’t go for the low-hanging fruit. What that means is when we start a business, we tend to go for every client that comes our way, and as good as that might be to learn more about the clients and their needs, it’s not sustainable and we’re going to burn out quickly. We have to really understand who our ideal client is and, most importantly, why we want to serve them. If we start speaking directly to the needs of our client, clients will come. Starting your own business might be frightening because you’re coming out of your comfort zone, but if you really put yourself out there and (aren’t) discouraged by all the failures, you will succeed. I don’t even call them failures; I call them lessons.

KASIA MICHAELS

MY BUSINESS … I work with executives, business owners, and entrepreneurs who are typically 40 and older; people who are already invested in their profession. I start with a closet edit—I come into my client’s closet, and we talk about their wardrobe and their future goals. With all of that information, we edit their closet and get rid of a lot of things. Then we establish their style direction: Who do they want to be? What do they want to present with their image? A er that follows the VIP shopping experience … where we do a whole makeover. Then I come back to my client’s home, and I make sure the closet and wardrobe is fully systemized … and I create a look book.

A Newport Beach-based fashion stylist and image consultant

WHAT I HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY … Communication is key, and sometimes you have to communicate things that maybe are not the most pleasant. We always want to be nice, but we have to keep it real or else it will just chase us down. In the beginning, I was afraid to communicate negative news, but in the end, it’s going to work out.

76 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 BE YOUR OWN BOSS

The fact that my business and food have been well received. Some of my closest friends say that shouldn’t be a surprise, but to me it still is. It’s a weird feeling to feel successful. I’ve been very fortunate, and I’m grateful. I’m autonomous and own my own time. Not many people can say that. I didn’t realize how important that was until I actually did it.

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 77

KRYSSIE TINSAY

WHAT I HAD TO LEARN THE HARD WAY … Time management. That’s key. I was a banquet chef at a hotel for many years, but going on my own … it became much more serious. I have to be mindful of my time and set boundaries for myself.

THE BIGGEST SURPRISE …

Owner of Tustin’s Kitchen 1726, a catering company MY BUSINESS … During the pandemic, I was furloughed from my executive sous chef post at the Hilton in Costa Mesa. I was making baked goods like breads and cookies, and doing a li le bit of catering. People started ordering from me because they didn’t want to leave their house. I was all over the place, in L.A., San Bernardino and Riverside counties, and Orange County. Kitchen 1726 is a combination of my birthday and my husband’s birthday. I put up my website, and toward the end of 2020 I was doing dinners. It really took o in 2021. I didn’t think it was going to be as big as it is now, to the point where it’s sustaining me and I don’t need to work for anyone else.

THE BEST ADVICE I’VE RECEIVED … My husband said, “Just keep moving forward. You’re doing well; think about all the other restaurants that failed and you thrived. Just keep going.”

I andtotheTheylikeresilient,They’resucculents.loveabsolutelypeople.haveabilityadaptthrive.

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 79photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

In weeks, Galbreath’s upbeat delivery, broad smile, and David-vs.-Goliath crusade to keep her name garnered 25,000 additional followers. “I understand trademark laws. I love my business name. People buy from me because they get a kick out of the name. I’m not out to bad-mouth Nike, but this is just harassment. It’s hard to imagine anyone will mistake a succulent com pany for a sneaker maker. Nike can just suck it.”

San Juan Capistrano resident Galbreath was born in Canada to a Jamaican mother and French Canadian father. During the pandemic, the sin gle mother lost her social worker contracts. Hav ing left an abusive marriage, she prides herself on her resourcefulness. “I’m able to come up with five alternative solutions to any problem.” She developed a business offering succulent arrangements as corporate gifts and workshops as team-building activities. Her name for her new company? Just Succ It. “Most people who hear the name pause, then laugh.” She went about locking down the name. “I hired an attor ney last April (2021) because I wanted to avoid any potential conflict. My trademark would not have been approved had there been any identifiable conflicts. It published Jan. 4.” Two and a half weeks after the trademark published, sportswear giant Nike demanded she drop the name. Lawyers for the company claimed Just Succ It infringes on Nike’s slogan “Just Do It.” Galbreath refused to cease and desist. She identified another entrepreneur who had received similar letters from Nike, but lacked Galbreath’s natural verve and nerve. She led the charge in a legal battle she was sure she and the others could win. “Nike goes to the mat when they discover a business using any type of wording they think infringes on their slogan. Most attorneys I consulted thought I could win, but it would cost $100,000, and Nike could still sue me. But they seem to be leaving me alone because of my social media presence.”

Galbreath urges others to take chances. Just Succ It and her workshops blending humor, life tips, and horticultural advice have been show ered with interest. “I’m always telling people to be like a succulent and adapt and thrive. If I didn’t, I’d be a hypocrite.”

ROOTSRESILIENT

SNAPSHOT

Ultimately, Galbreath rescinded her trademark claim for Just Succ It but continues using the name. “I learned a lot from this. For one, peo ple will come together to fight for the under dog. They want to see each other win.”

Andrea Galbreath started a business with succulents, where she puts a witty twist on her role of underdog against a corporate giant. by Barbara McMurray

A TikTok post in January challenged Nike’s premise: “Welcome to another episode of ‘Is this really happening?’ It is! Trademarks help protect a brand from confusion and dilu tion, or both. Obviously, there is zero confu sion between my products and theirs. (That) leaves dilution—but what is that, exactly? Even if there’s not consumer confusion, a famous brand can claim that the distinctiveness of its brand is weakened by another mark. You know what I think when I hear that? I think they need to hire me for their marketing! If my small, tongue-in-cheek succulent business in San Juan Capistrano dilutes a global, billion-dollar corporation, they might need to rethink their marketing strategies.”

80 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

Miss Bosscat Leslie Nguyen overcame a troubled past in becoming a food and beverage leader. Now sober for eight years, she’s obsessed with creating whiskey restaurants. by BENJAMIN EPSTEIN photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 81

82 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

Orange Coast: The birdcages in the Whiskey Room at Bosscat in Orange are as beautiful as they are intrigu ing; presumably the whiskeys inside them are special, too. But you don’t just design, you implement. Are you completely hands-on?

Leslie Nguyen: Yes, I made the shelves that the bottles live on; I cut the wood, painted them, did the trim, threaded the wires to the lamps. … That room recalls a moment in my life that I enjoyed but was also very painful. That room is my heart and soul. Whiskey bottles in a birdcage … seems symbolic. I was addicted to three things: al cohol, ecstasy, and love. As in ecstasy the drug. This is about being sober and it’s about heartbreak. I went through a troubling relationship. I was a prisoner to this person and kind of still am. I was in torturous pain. When we were building in Orange, I was trying to get free. I put the whiskey bottles in the cages to symbolize my addiction—it was about trapping my addiction and releasing my soul. Being sober and designing whiskey rooms—to say that’s a dichotomy is an extreme understatement. It is very ironic that we’re in the alcohol business. I’m sober, and my business partner is sober. Whiskey is still my addiction, right? Only now I’m addicted to the story. The bot tles, the designs, the beauty of it. … I made those little wood shelves, one per bottle, to honor them, to show the story of each bottle. That’s probably healthier. It’s way healthier. I’ve done the Kentucky Bourbon Trail sober. I’m ofounder and creative director of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations and Ten Sushi + Cocktail Bar, Leslie Nguyen oversees design and marketing e orts for six restaurants in O.C. and in Houston; both concepts are new at Lakeshore in Irvine. Her Miss Mini Donuts caters special events and private parties. Born in Louisiana and raised in Laguna Niguel, Nguyen began her hospitality career as a hostess, then server, then bartender, mostly at dives and biker bars; she brieﬂy studied graphic design. In 2009, she opened the Daily Dose Sports Lounge in Irvine. The date tattooed on Nguyen’s shoulder—May 19, 2014—is when she got sober; the same month, she and business partner John Reed opened Bosscat in Newport Beach. If Nguyen’s restaurant-design ideas seem inspired, it’s because they are. They’re deeply personal, she tells Orange Coast. Consider the birdcages.

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 83 Leslie Nguyen, in the library of the new Lakeshore location of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Irvine, also started Miss Mini Donuts.

84 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022 obsessed with the history, the fami lies, the wars … how two prominent whiskey families have distilleries right by each other. There are photos of the kids growing up together. Those are really cool. So you know all about the whiskeys, but nothing about how they taste. I used to drink bourbon … but no, not any new release, or Japa nese whisky. … In those cases, I tell people, “You try it, and you tell me how it tastes.” Just because I have no self-control doesn’t mean that nobody else should enjoy. But you know a certain percentage of the customers might have the same problems you had. We don’t preach sobriety—but a few of our employees have become sober because of us. You can be a bartender and be sober—it is pos sible. Me, I need to be part of this industry to stay sober. If I worked at a 9-to-5 o ce job, I’d be like, “I gotta go have a drink.” I’m in this— it’s so much of my life that I’m OK; I’m good. What about the ecstasy? That’s the thing. When people ask if I miss drinking, I’m like, “No, I do not miss drinking. I don’t miss the hangovers. I don’t miss any of that ... but I do miss the drugs.” Wow. I miss that ultimate feeling, when the world is a cloud and you’re just loving everything. … Opening day, creating these restaurants, is the

My business partner, John, keeps me accountable. We made promises to each other, and I stick to those promises. I’ve had dreams where I’ve broken sobriety—I wake up in a panic. I never, ever want to let people down. I don’t want to let myself down. People say, “No one’s going to know, here, just do it.” I’m going to know I did it. To me, a promise is a lot—that word is bond. With all you’re doing, what inspired you to start Miss Mini Donuts?

closest I get to that. A di erent type of endorphins and dopamine hits, but I am happy. I am loving every thing. How do you stay grounded?

How have your design concepts evolved?

In Orange, we built a library with lockers, but people wanted to hang out and eat there, too. So in Irvine, we built a bigger library. Now the whiskey room and library dining are signatures.

I started Miss Mini Donuts be fore Bosscat—nobody knows that; it’s a hidden fact. I stopped when we opened Bosscat. Later, I went through a horrible depression. I started again and got orders. I’d wake up, make doughnuts in the dark, and be crying. But I’d get notes: “Your doughnuts made our birthday magical.” One guy proposed with them. “She said yes; thank you so much.” The doughnuts got you through the depression? They saved my life. My little side passion project forced me to get up and get out of bed. And it’s growing. The Irvine restaurants have an adjacent expanse of lawn. Any plans for that? Big plans for the Park at Lake shore. We want to do food and wine events here with other restaurants. The restaurant owners, we’re a com munity. Why not support each other?

We want people to be able to walk in and say, “This is a Boss cat,” so we’ll always have the blue upholstery, the wood, and the brick. But our ﬁrst whiskey room was a whiskey closet. It was like a life-size menu—you pick out your whiskeys,

September 2022 • O RANGE C OAST 85 we serve them at your table. Then a light bulb went o . In Houston, we built a larger whiskey room where people could eat dinner. In Orange, we built a library with lockers, but people wanted to hang out and eat there, too. So in Irvine we built a bigger library. Now the whiskey room and library dining are signatures. And Ten? We didn’t create the ﬁrst Ten. Originally it looked like a Vegas nightclub. We remodeled. There’s an art piece I love inside a restau rant in Huntington Beach, a ma chine gun shooting out butterﬂies— shoot peace out into the world, not violence, right? We’re using that same artist at the new Ten. … I want people to feel sexy when they walk in. There’s a lot of pink and a lot of black. Black like my soul, pink like my heart. The two spots seem so opposite. Ten is edgy and feminine; Bosscat is masculine and dapper. The ceilings at the new Bosscat are so high! I wanted to do my whiskey angels—sheerly dressed acrobatic ladies who dance as they descend from the ceiling then pour whiskey into your glass. The team said, “Let’s save that for Vegas.”

Maybe one day. First, there’s an other in Texas. We’ll see.

From left: Birdcages hang around the whiskey room and books adorn the library at Bosscat. Co-owner Nguyen says both rooms are signature spaces of the restaurant.

Big dreams! You’re doing a Vegas location?

A HISTORY TO BE RECKONED WITH Premieres Sept 18

The average tuition cost is $12,255 which is lower than the California private school average tuition cost of $15,837 46% are religiously affiliated

HERE’S A SUMMARY OF YOUR OC OPTIONS:

• Boarding. A boarding school by definition is any school that offers food and lodging. Most require students to live on campus during the school year.

• Parochial. A parochial school is a religious private school that receives funding from a local church.

• Religious. These private institutions have a specific religious affiliation such as Catholic, Lutheran or non-denominational Christian.

OC AT-A-GLANCESTATS 380 Private School in Orange County Serving 71,224 Students

EXCELLENCEACADEMIC

OC’s abundant sunshine and education offerings attract students from around the world

September 2022 • Orange Coast 87

Whether you are a rising high school senior navigating college applications or considering an advanced degree to accelerate your career, options abound in Orange County. Orange County is home to more than 20 colleges and universities, from UC Irvine to Chapman university in Orange to Saddleback Community College in Mission Viejo and Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, OC offers exceptional academic opportunities to local and international students.

HIGHLIGHTSEDUCATIONHIGHER

SPONSORED CONTENT Source: PrivateSchoolReview.com

PREFER PRIVATE?

• Traditional. This type of school may be a for-profit business or a non-profit (such as those run by private foundations).

• Montessori. This school model put a great emphasis on exploration and individualized learning. Most offer curriculum from Pre-K through grade 8.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN BUENA PARK Rossier Park School 7100 Knott Ave., Buena Park, CA 90620 (714) spectrumschools.com562-0441 Speech and Language Development Center 8699 Holder St., Buena Park, CA 90620 (714) sldc.net821-3620

Waldorf School of Orange County 2350 Canyon Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (949) waldorfschool.com574-7775

88 Orange Coast • September 2022

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN HUNTINGTON BEACH Fusion Academy 7711 Center Ave., Ste. 120, Huntington Beach CA fusionacademy.com(657)92647200-2300

SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO ]

DESCANSO

BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE BEST RESTAURANTNEW2022

COSTA MESA [

TAPS FISH HOUSE & BREWERY

SIDEDOOR

A handsome, modern izakaya from the owners of Manpuku, Hachi is a boisterous, convivial gem. The charcoal-grilled skewers shine, including the

Chef-owner Jessica Roy transformed the alfresco gem inside iconic Sherman Library & Gardens with a new name and joyous take on seasonal fare. Dreamy salads are impeccably fresh, pastas imaginative, and vegetarian tacos are a signature dish in the making. Effusive wine cocktails. 2647 E. Coast Highway, 949220-7229. Lunch only. $$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired col laboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restau rant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joa quin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ Grilled octopus at Blusky Restaurant & Bar photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

DINING GUIDE

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., 714545-1411. $$ SOCIAL Social brought hipster dining to a scruffy westside strip mall, opening the area to considerable gentrification. The 118-seat retooled venue surprises with sophisticated cooking and a nicely refreshed menu, especially now that executive chef Jeffrey Boullt is back and managing two scratch kitchens. Yes, a second Social is open in Huntington Beach. Ceviche of Peruvian bay scallops at Glasspar

100 Orange Coast • September 2022 chicken meatball and chicken thigh. Expect a little bit of everything here: gloriously marbled beef, fresh oysters, composed salads, 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. $$$

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS Professional Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Tree Pruning & Crown Reduction •Sod Removal Palms Skinned, Trimmed & Removed Ivy Topping & Removal • Power Stump Grinding Lot & Hill Clean-ups for Fire Regulation Liability Insurance • Workers Comp. Insurance State License 765846 714-502-0226 TREE CAREFOR RESIDENTIALAND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES WE ACCEPT VISA, M/C & AMERICAN www.superiortreecare.net714-776-0821Facsimile:EXPRESSwebsite: Superior Tree Care 9/3/03 11:35 AM Page 2

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HUNTINGTON BEACH

JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN

Big and welcoming, this 225-seat harborside venue is a utility player thanks to a broad menu of modern comfort fare. It’s a handy call for patio lunches, upbeat happy hours, hearty dinners, and bossy brunches. Locals swarm the upbeat space, noshing on mighty burgers, fried chicken, and prime rib. Desserts are fantastically huge, if ordinary. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-388-8900. $$ RAYA Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this poshbut-relaxed dining room conceived by celeb chef Richard Sandoval. After the eye-popping blufftop ocean view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience. But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

This Surf City resort’s fine dining choice prevails with expertly executed fare that’s mostly familiar and gorgeously presented. Goat cheese fudge is a surprising outlier on a tight menu of classics, some worthy of special occasions—think lobster bisque and côte de boeuf for two. Polished service. Live music. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-8000. Dinner only $$$$ LSXO Step back in time to colonial Vietnam at this vest-pocket hideaway with only 28 seats.

Chef-owner Tin Vuong amplifies his successful L.A. Little Sister act with a sultry setting (tucked inside of huge Bluegold) and uncompromising Viet fare inspired by his roots and frequent travels to South Vietnam. Nifty craft cocktails and luxe dishes such as salt and pepper lobster make a good date night, but we also like the street-style noshes such as New signature items include lamb empanadas, wagyu beef tri-tip, and all-new craft cocktails. Service is variable. 512 W. 19th St., 949-642-2425. Weekend brunch. Second location (not reviewed) in Huntington Beach at 21214 Beach Blvd. $$

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

DANA POINT GLASSPAR

HENRY’S COASTAL CUISINE

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 Mahé site, supporting the community with ultra-fresh fare, delicious dishes, and his five-star service. A tight focus on top-shelf cocktails lures groups who want to gather for toasting. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$

TACO MARÍA Every dish is a marvel of deeply considered modern Cal-Mex cuisine from chef-owner and O.C. native Carlos Salgado, who parked his esteemed food truck enterprise for this site. Even the stripped-down setting draws all attention to the food. Dinners are four-course prix fixe affairs, with thoughtful wine pairings. Lunch—when the tacos appear—is a more laid-back and affordable way to sample the refined slant that snagged Salgado a Michelin star and several James Beard nominations for chef awards. 3313 Hyland Ave., 714538-8444. Beer and wine. $$$

FULLERTON KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN Born in the crucible of the pandemic, this halal bistro serves flavorful kebabs, curries, and street snacks alongside wood-fired wagyu steaks. Creator and executive chef Imran Ali Mookhi applies a Michelin mindset acquired after years in fine dining kitchens. Khan Saab has the best-stocked alcohol-free bar in O.C. 229 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-853-1081. $$

IRVINE ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS

HABANA

102 Orange Coast • September 2022 prawn crepes and lemongrass skewers. Fair warning: The uncensored rap soundtrack is not for all ears. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0083. $$ SESSIONS

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 CULTURE |

TEQUILAYCOCINASANDBAROFCOURTESYPHOTOGRAPH

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN

DINING GUIDE

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. $

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. $$

N haciendaew-fashioned

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. $$

—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

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.

Sandbar Cocina y Tequila combines the vibes of the Baja coastline and the Huntington Beach surf, skate, and music scene; vintage prints and photos from the city’s International Surfing Museum hang on virtually every wall. The restaurant group behind Baja Sharkeez in Newport Beach elevates its Mexican concept with spins on menu classics such as mangocamarones ceviche, Isla Cortez shrimp tacos, a cheese-and-jalapeño-encased beef birria burrito, chimichurri ribeye enchiladas, and an achiote “beso” salmon main with crispy sweet corn cake. Among a host of margaritas are versions including pineapple serrano cilantro and smoky pasilla. A Tulum-inspired area with tropical foliage and glowing decanters has a wall display of tequila and mezcal bo les; it’s an ideal place to taste those and others on the extensive list. 221 Main St., Huntington Beach, 714-460-5423

SANDBAR

PLAYA

PORCH & SWING BEST RESTAURANTNEW2021 This delightful indie serves a “taste of Charleston” starring original riffs on American classics and cocktails by Andrew Parish. Must-try dishes include roasted pork jowl over grits, amazing creamless creamed corn, and gorgeous salads. House-baked breads are a strength, too. The patio is lovely. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$ PUESTO San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options for O.C. fans. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oaxacan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from organic, non-GMO, blue corn masa. The cheese is especially brilliant on vegetarian tacos. Always ask about the monthly taco special. The Park Place center location’s indoor-meets-outdoor venue is intimate and color-splashed. Park Place, 3311 Michelson Drive, 949-608-7272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. $$ SESSIONS No. 3 is a charm for O.C.’s indie chainlet of “West Coast” delis. Expect terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two, gourmet creations that are meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. Fromscratch soups, sides, and dressings. A beguiling lakeside setting beckons for lazy breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 4736 Barranca Parkway, 949-333-3949. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $ TACO ROSA With agave-sweetened margaritas, daily aguas frescas, and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. Try the Oaxacan enchiladas. 13792 Jamboree Road, 714-505-6080. See Newport Beach location. $$

This village center magnet for robust Italian fare by chef-owner Alessandro Pirozzi boasts a bar featuring primo versions of burrata, scamorza, and other cheese delights, as well as elite cured meats from Italy and up-and-coming domestic producers. 234 Forest Ave., 949-497-8222. $$

LITTLE SISTER

LAGUNA BEACH ALESSÁ BY CHEF PIROZZI

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO

This Irvine Spectrum spot is an XXL bistro to older sister shop LSXO. Chef-partner Tim Vuong musters a team that pulls off a bigger menu, bigger digs, and a bigger profile with ease. Find proven faves—the overstuffed Viet Crepe and the Shaky Shaky Beef— plus new lunch porridges and bánh mìs streaming out of the kitchen to a bustling dining room. Vintage rap tracks and a crackerjack bar keep the vibe lively. 896 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-800-8798. $$$

September 2022 • Orange Coast 103 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. $$$ JA JIAOZI It’s all about handmade dumplings here. They grace every table, anchoring meals rounded out with other hot and cold dishes. First-timers, ask your able server for help. Top picks include steamed Flaming Hot and boiled Signature jiaozi, along with refreshing tofu-skin salad. Top-notch shrimp fried rice is a winner, too. Watch the masters at work from a five-seat bar. 13776 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714-786-8999. $$

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. $$

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. $$$

BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA

Chic and breezy as a Baja resort, this sprawling spot lures local crowds for upscale Mexican classics. An unending flow of worthy margaritas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well-executed shrimp ceviche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchiladas. Huge portions, sharp ser vice, and modern digs seal the deal. Scores of sip ping tequilas delight agave fans. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949-409-7380. $$$

EMILY

DINING GUIDE

The latest incarnation of Laguna Beach’s historic Coast Highway venue is much bet ter than it has to be, given its bulletproof location. Upmarket, innovative American cuisine by execu tive 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. $$$

IRONWOOD The savvy team behind Vine in San Clemente notches another hit with this welcoming dinner house in a zone with scant options. Executive chef Jared Cook’s modern, seasonal menu roams from delicate to hearty, but all dishes showcase his knack for upping the crave factor. Examples: chicken schnitzel with mushrooms, Zinfandel-braised lamb shank with mint yogurt. Terrific craft cocktails shift Tian Provençal at Bouillon photograph by J. DAVIS

CALO KITCHEN + TEQUILA

Anaheim Ducks star Teemu Selanne cements his brand with this polished and popular steak joint on a venerated stretch of Coast Highway. Prime, pricey beef rules the day on executive chef Vince Terusa’s menu designed for a pro athlete’s appetite and fan base. We like the main floor’s easy, breezy tavern for terrific cocktails, the superlative burger, and world-class people watching. 1464 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-9881. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA HILLS

104 Orange Coast • September 2022 prevails in creating a dashing joint where both the musicians and the kitchen have serious chops. Din ers dig into Euro-inflected dishes (try the lamb lol lipops, the Alpine melt, the chile-lime swordfish). Musicians dig the highbrow sound system. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-1000. $$$ NICK’S Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of tasty cocktails and a compact all-day menu of com fort classics with modern twists. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened halibut sand wich. Softly lit and cushily appointed, the open-air space boasts a sidewalk patio. Sociable service is notably polished. 440 S. Coast Highway, 949-3768595. See San Clemente location. $$ 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 won drous, 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. $$$ RUMNEWSOCIAL This handsomely retooled rookie on quaint Peppertree Lane lures locals with its trop ical vibe and novel menu of island-inspired fare and luscious cocktails. Downstairs is open to the breezy parade of beachgoers, whereas the upstairs bar is a quieter treetop retreat. Both share a menu with the seasons. 25250 La Paz Road, 949-446-8772. Dinner only. $$$

LAGUNA NIGUEL

BOTTEGA ANGELINA This chic Italian is a grand showpiece by the team behind Pizzeria Angelina. House-made pastas, roasted meats, and pizzas share a succinct menu, supported by sophisticated cocktails from an impos ing marble bar. Vast patio with dazzling views. 32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220. $$$

SELANNE STEAK TAVERN

Teeming with natural light and coastal breezes, Hen drix swaggers into Laguna Niguel with a place that promises something for everyone in this optionlean suburb. It’s from the group behind Laguna Beach’s The Deck and Driftwood Kitchen, and part ner Austrian-born Rainer Schwarz is executive chef. A showpiece rotisserie roasts plump chickens, por chetta, and lamb while basting potatoes in the catch bin with juices from the meats. Irresistible small plates include prosciutto fritters, Brussels sprouts with marcona almonds, and chicken-fontina flat bread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$ of boundary-blurring dishes such as crispy Haitian chickpeas, jerk chicken, and Caribbean short rib cas soulet. 448 S. Coast Highway, 949-549-4014. $$$

SAPPHIRE CELLAR CRAFT COOK

HENDRIX

September 2022 • Orange Coast 105 porchetta, and lamb while basting potatoes in the catch bin with juices from the meats. Irresistible small plates include prosciutto fritters, Brussels sprouts with marcona almonds, and chicken-fontina flatbread. 32431 Golden Lantern, 949-248-1912. $$

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 housecured meats. Upscale pricing and dapper surroundings prove this is not your frat brother’s Irish pub. 26342 Oso Parkway, 949-582-0026. $$$

NEWPORT BEACH BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE

FABLE & SPIRIT BEST RESTAURANTNEW2020

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. $$

From the family behind Dublin 4 comes this lush addition to the area across from Lido Marina Village. But don’t assume this is an Irish pub that mimics the other. This plush room features inventive fare that’s a mashup of American and Irish. Here you start with Hares Looking at You, a cocktail starring Wheatley vodka and carrot juice, move on to the refined beet agnolotti with chèvre foam, or share a woodfired duck confit pizetta. Yes, the fish and chips are superior, but so is the rabbit fricassee. 3441 Via Lido, 949-409-9913. $$$

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. $$

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. $$$

MISSION VIEJO DUBLIN 4 GASTROPUB

BOUILLON Indefatigable operator Laurent Vrigand, the founder of six Moulin cafes, debuts his first full-service restaurant—an homage to Paris’ Bouillon Chartier, his childhood favorite. Expect one all-day menu of nostalgic fare at painless prices, no substitutions, no reservations, and snappy service. Standouts include tian Provençal, beef bourguignon, and profiteroles. 1000 N. Bristol, 949-418-9549. $$

HARBORSIDE RESTAURANT

MALIBU FARM LIDO Malibu farm girl and native Swede Helene Henderson adds another ocean-air venue for colorful organic fare. The all-day menu boasts fat burritos, fruit-covered grain, or yogurt bowls and savory options that include the bestseller, an outstanding fried egg sandwich with great bacon and Havarti on country toast with lemon aioli. Multigrain pancakes are worthy, but Swedish mini

YEARS43 Orange county’s most unique experienceshopping Distinctive Shopping & Dining DECKERS FINE GIFTS Sunday, September 18 10am to 4pm Annual Halloween Open House PROVENCECHARLESTONBOUTIQUE Saturday, September 24 1pm to 5pm Happy Hour with Rose from Provence and “Savannah Candy” tasting Gift with $50 + purchase 714.731.2911 SEVENTEENTH STREET & YORBA ST., TUSTIN — 55 FRWY. NORTH OR SOUTH, EXIT SEVENTEENTH ST. EAST RESTAURANTS 17th Street Grill 714.730.0003 Belacan Grill MALAYSIAN 714.505.9908BISTRO The Coffee Grinder 714.838.0960 The Crab Cooker 714.573.1077 El Torito 714.838.6630 Zov’s Bakery & Café 714.838.8855 Zov’s Bistro 714.838.8855 SERVICES 17th OptometryStreet 714.838.9664OPTOMETRY Fancy Nails 714.730.4722 Fitness Fixe 714.838.5751 Fusion Hair 714.838.6000 Hair Industry The Salon 714.731.2530 Rebecca Pelletier Interiors 714.508.8581 Studio J 714.721.1163PILATES Tustin Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 714.544.5341 EstateWinston’sGallery 714.508.0100 FASHION A Perfect Fit FINE 714.665.5994LINGERIE Frank’s Menswear 714.730.5945 La Galleria ELEGANT WOMEN’S 714.544.6340APPAREL Tina Marie’s BRIGHTON 714.505.1676COLLECTION Touch of Class Reﬁnery 714.734.7749 SPECIALTY AA Jewel Box 714.669.9966 ProvenceCharleston 714.508.8581BOUTIQUE Chemers Gallery 714.731.5432 Deckers Fine Gifts 714.832.7074 Discoveries 714.544.6206CRAFTSCONTEMPORARY H. Foster & Jackson 714.544.4635 Justin Porterﬁeld, Ltd. 714.544.5223

Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse cannoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite. Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. 1200 Bison Ave., 949-520-7191. $$$

One of O.C.’s most iconic landmarks, the 1906 Balboa Pavilion still lures visitors to its harbor view, and celebrants to its sweeping ballroom for special events and weddings galore. Expect a safe menu of all-American classics. Locals love that happy hour starts at 11:30 a.m. 400 Main St., 949-673-4633. $$

WINEWORKS FOR EVERYONE

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS

SUSHI ROKU

SHOREBIRD

Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offer ing from the polished crew behind sister restau rants 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 opu lent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarra gon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, 949-2876807. Dinner only. $$$ SESSIONS

Hidden inside the Vue Newport enclave, Shorebird is invisible until you enter the airy split-level space dominated by its waterfront view. Expect contem keeps up with dishes such as seared scallop sliders, za’atar-crusted ahi tuna with Beluga lentils, and filet mignon flatbread. As always, drinks are inviting with a tropical theme; the mai tai is the best around. A super-sleek new patio is lighter, brighter, and big ger. This is a great place to meet for happy hour. 854 Avocado Ave., 949-760-8686. $$

106 Orange Coast • September 2022 industry, he lives his longtime dream of serving bistro classics, selling oven-fresh baguettes and grab-and-go dishes, and peddling wines and other French pantry items. The unfussy bistro and patio evoke Paris at every turn. It’s O.C.’s gathering spot for expats and Francophiles. 1000 Bristol St. North, 949474-0920. Locations (not reviewed) in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$

The sixth location of this Cal-Japanese con cept makes a huge impression with striking decor and vibrant cuisine. If the dining room’s bus ier than the sushi bar, blame the thoughtfully designed and executed menu, notably dishes such as fluke kumquat sashimi, blue crab tartare, Prime ribeye Japonais, and the deconstructed s’mores. The creative sushi deserves a night all its own, and the bar and patio offer their own vibes. Look for scores of noodles, salads, and bento boxes at lunch, and sakes. 327 Newport Center Drive, 949-706-3622. $$$

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

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. $$

OLEA CELLAR CRAFT COOK

THE BEACHCOMBER

The snazzy venue overlooks the yacht and Duffy boat traffic in Newport Harbor, flaunting its water front 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. $$$

The surf’s-edge view might be better than the food, but the drinks and eats are good enough to keep this iconic spot packed with beachgoers, especially in summer. Stick with basics such as grilled artichokes, lobster club, and stuffed salmon. Executive chef Car los Olivera oversees the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that change slightly each season. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$

BLUEFIN Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gor geous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The set ting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Supe porary 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. $$$

NEWPORT COAST

DINING GUIDE

This busy “West Coast deli” on the peninsula crafts terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two. Gourmet creations with kooky names are meticu lous 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 loca tion (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 New port Center Drive. $

TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR David Wilhelm, the county’s restaurant laure ate, returns to Newport Beach with this fetching and welcome rehab of a waterside venue. Menus read like a playlist of Wilhelm’s champion recipes tweaked for 2020. Standout new dishes for dinner and weekend brunch include red snapper Vera cruzana, Buddha bowls, sirloin meatballs, and fried chicken with malted waffles. Look for a natty presunset happy hour on weekdays. 333 Bayside Drive, 949-673-8464. $$

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT, BAR & STORE

This local favorite strives to remain relevant. The coastal cuisine is well-executed, from a menu that Duck chilaquiles at Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

ORANGE BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB O.C.’s flashiest hipsters gather here to be nursed like they’re bleeding cash. And they are. Megamartinis, obese lobsters, and Bible-thick steaks don’t come cheap, but this dramatic setting does offer the ocean view and suave service worthy of its position as our finest castle of cholesterol consumption. Thursdays are famed for singles action that approaches tournament level. 8112 E. Coast Highway, 949-3766990. See South Coast Metro location. $$$ WASA SUSHI James Hamamori cemented his stardom at this striking shopping-center spot brimming with devotees of modern spins on sushi. Renowned for such fare as salmon with ginger sauce and fresh orange. Exceptional selection of salads, appetizers, and entrees as well. 1344 Bison Ave., 949-760-1511. Beer and wine. $$ 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. $$$

Old Towne’s newest gastropub thoughtfully transforms a historic corner into a lively whiskey bar serving worthy eats with a Southern accent. Look for Parmesan-crusted meatloaf, gulf shrimp and grits, and a yowza burger. The service is sharp. Sunday brunch and a robust midweek happy hour. 118 W. Chapman Ave., 714-716-1599. $$

The finest French bistro south of Beverly Hills is reborn in coastal digs that express a fresh chapter for the redoubtable Florent and Amelia Marneau. Added space and oversize windows let the outdoors into a room that oozes grace and sophistication. Beloved dishes such as Spanish octopus with chorizo return to the dinner menu alongside new creations from the open kitchen—think crispy suckling pigs and beans, a three-day cassoulet. Amelia’s new desserts include ravishing Napoleons served weekends only. 7862 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 714-434-7900. $$$

Photos Credit: Rick Chatillon ART & CREATIVITY FOR HEALING’S PALETTE OF COLORS Art & Creativity for Healing’s Palette of Colors fundraiser was held at the beautiful Lake Mission Viejo Clubhouse. Over 150 attendees enjoyed the warm summer-like evening generating approximately $70K in gross proceeds. The ‘Hats Off to Giving’ event supports the nonprofit’s emotional healing programs through art and creative expression for those living in pain, grief, fear or stress. The evening included an expansive silent auction with many original art pieces, opportunity drawing, dinner, dancing and a hat contest.

THE HOBBIT

HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR

PLACENTIA EL FAROLITO Often packed tighter than a taquito, this is a go-to favorite for traditional border fare, served fast and friendly. Pass the wait with an icy Negra Modelo— regulars know to grab one from the cooler out front. Huevos dishes—rancheros, machaca, chorizo—are popular on weekend mornings, and served until 3 p.m. 201 S. Bradford Ave., 714-993-7880. $

Gustatory delights worthy of Gatsby attract diners on special occasions to this gracious hacienda, where dinners are seven-course pageants that start with bubbly and nibbles in the wine cellar, and end hours later on the cigar patio. Each night’s menu is set weeks in advance—and so are most reservations. 2932 E. Chapman Ave., 714-997-1972. Reservations required. $$$

PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS

A serious contender in the gastropub category, this popular storefront in Old Towne lures a mixed crowd of brew fanatics and foodies, thanks to a rich roster of esoteric suds and polished pub grub from chef Craig Brady. Dishes such as a braised lamb pappardelle and coriander roasted baby carrots. Lunch and early dinner are options for bypassing the deafening din that rises with the crowd. 190 S. Glassell St., 714-221-0680. $$

September 2022 • Orange Coast 107 dinner menus that change slightly each season. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$ BLUEFIN Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gorgeous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The setting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Superior sake selection. 7952 E. Pacific Coast Highway, 949-7157373. $$$ MARCHÉ MODERNE BEST RESTAURANTNEW2018

DINING GUIDE 108 Orange Coast • September 2022

SOUTH OF NICK’S From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the recep tion station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110 N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location (not reviewed) in Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$ VINE A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new Shakshuka at Mayﬁeld photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

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. $$

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. $$

Quirky and capable, this Santa Ana newcomer goes all-in for alfresco, luring diners with a tree-shaded setting on a vintage residential street. The modest menu of American bistro dishes is just big enough to have wide appeal. Happy hour and weekend brunch have a backyard party vibe. Dinner sur prises with upmarket dishes, say a lovely bavette steak atop celery root puree. 601 E. Santa Ana Blvd., 714-480-0225. $$

CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL

EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN

The menu of authentic, seasonal cuisine says Italy, but the unfussy setting and beach-casual regulars make for a solid California vibe at this trattoria by chef-owner David Pratt. Thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired Valoriani oven are composed with care, but don’t miss the house-made pastas and seasonal salads. Amazing meatballs, too. 216 N. El Camino Real, 949-429-1199. $$

MAYFIELD

RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ

This intrepid Mexican canteen offers less-familiar dishes—corundas, roast quail—alongside comfort favorites such as ceviche and chilaquiles. Micho acán native Sergio Ortega previously of Descanso, is executive chef. Inaugural meals include dinner nightly and Sunday brunch. Commendable drinks. 400 N. Broadway, 714-852-3256. $$

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. $$

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

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. $$$

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. $$$ PUBLIC 74 This county-line gastropub radiates a welcoming vibe that attracts customers of all types to its fauxramshackle chic, second-story venue. Craft brews, booze, and decidedly eclectic eats change often, as executive chef Gerry Kent keeps the smallish menu seasonal. Definitely consider the two-handed Reu ben, and there’s a seasonal monster burger. 27211 Ortega Highway, 949-481-2723. $$

Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe from Mex ico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde Also impressive: crisp tacos ahog ado 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, unflap pable service. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$

SANTA ANA [ SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO ]

SAN CLEMENTE BRICK

IVA LEE’S Deep South and down-home despite the modern exterior, the Southern-Creole eats here are designed to help diners relax and let the good times roll. 555 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2855. Dinner only. $$$

Three chefs, two of them former co-chefs at Tabu Grill in Laguna Beach, transform a fast-casual fixture into a winning spot that offers craft beers, all $5, and a tightly edited menu of elevated favorites, notably Tuscan toast, and a terrific fried chicken sandwich. The rear counter offers a distant ocean view. 1402 S. El Camino Real, 949-441-7621. Beer and wine. $ NICK’S On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact allday menu of comfort classics with a modern twist. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and black ened 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. $$

BENCHMARK

MRK PUBLIC

This lakefront sprawler offers top-notch Cal-Mex fare from the culinary vision of owner Clemente Heredia Jr., a third-generation operator. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, Kurobuta pork in the wonderful carnitas. Outstanding margaritas. Warm, spiffy service. 31441 Santa Margarita Park way, 949-709-7600. See Laguna Beach location. $$

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

September 2022 • Orange Coast 109

EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE

SEAL BEACH 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 METRO

ANQI Tight focus on the fare makes dining at this South Coast Plaza hot spot better than ever. Executive chef Ron Lee makes delicious harmony with matriarch master chef Helene An’s spicy beef tacos and roasted New Zealand lamb rack, as well as her fabled roast crab (Tuesday only). Zen chic decor turns heads. Drinks at the dramatic bar dazzle the cocktail crowd, but try Sunday brunch for a more kickback experience, or snag a padded stool at the adjacent noodle bar. 3333 Bristol St., 714-557-5679.

Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies persuasive talent to this South Coast Plaza penthouse dazzler of a sushi bar. Son Jim is now behind the bar, too, but this heavenly venue also shows off non-sushi dishes such as uni floating in edamame puree, Kobe rissole, and miso-marinated lamb chops. Omakase is truly top-notch. 3333 Bear St., 714-850-0880. $$$ KNIFE PLEAT South Coast Plaza’s rarefied penthouse shines ever brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelinacclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to see stars again with this radiant backdrop for Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hospitality. Look for butter-poached lobster, forest mushroom melange, and the signature legumes de saison when nature allows. Save room for Germain Biotteau’s inimitable desserts. Friday and Saturday night tasting menus are utterly indulgent. 3333 Bristol St., 714-266-3388. Closed Sunday and Monday. $$$

The J. F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center’s 2022 gala was a huge success at Montage Laguna Beach on June 25, and it topped $1 Million. It was an evening of gratitude from The Shea Center for its friends and sponsors who graciously donate time, talent, and treasure in support of its mission to improve the lives of people with disabilities through therapeutic horserelated programs.

$$$ ANTONELLO RISTORANTE

The Shea Therapeutic Riding Center Gala

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. $$$ DARYA Don’t let the chandeliers and acres of marble deceive—this convivial Persian dining room isn’t staid or formal. It’s de facto party central for the county’s Persian expats, their kin, and others who enjoy superb renditions of Middle Eastern kebabs, rice dishes, and classics such as fesenjon, a savory meat entree. Efficient service and huge portions make this a good choice for groups. 3800 South Plaza Drive, 714-557-6600. $$

O.C. Scene PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS PROMOTION Photo Credit: Pixel That! Photography

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. $$

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

South Coast Plaza’s shiny new addition categorizes its cuisine as New American—a hazy designation for chef-owner John Park’s canny brunch and din ner menus that defy easy labels. Think fried burrata sandwich with pumpkin seed pesto, souffle-light berry pancakes with chamomile whipped cream, and shrimp and grits with surprise slices of lap cheong. Desserts are dazzlers. 3333 Bear St., 714-872-8054. $$

TERRACE BY MIX MIX Canny chef-owner Ross Pangilinan’s mini malist aerie overlooking the stylish Bridge of Gardens skywalk at South Coast Plaza lacks a full bar, but it has wine and beer and is open daily with ample free parking. Fans love the three-course lunch, but weekend brunch with its mimosa cart beguiles, and dinner offers the best prix fixe in the center. Don’tmiss 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 spaghet teria and bar, plus a back-pocket cafe. Artisan, fresh daily pasta is the latest effort from the Pozzuoli fam ily behind Centro, the excellent micro pizzeria next door. Signature dishes include Capperi e Olive (casa recca), Aglione (bucatini), and grilled porterhouse for two. 405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$ CHAAK Gabbi and Ed Patrick of Gabbi’s Kitchen chose Old Town to show off the county’s most sophisticated take on the regional fare of Mexico’s wondrous Yucatán Peninsula, naming their new location after the Mayan rain god. The dazzling space features a retractable roof and sliding Roman shades to lovely effect. Must-have dishes include sikil pec, a roasted pumpkin seed dip, as well as cochinita pibil and carne cruda. A 16-seat bar invites lingering over elaborate cocktails or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$

TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR

ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, cre ative 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 reg ulars coming back. For something different, try the Puerto Nuevo tostada with shrimp, mahi-mahi, sour cream, and raspberries in a pumpkin seed-citrus dressing. 18601 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714-970-5095. $$

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. Knowledge able servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera, one of Kapoor’s most famous cre ations: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714-389-5280. $$

PARADISE DYNASTY Singapore’s largest restaurant group opts for the Bloomingdale’s end of South Coast Plaza for its first U.S. operation with this wildly popular soup dump ling specialist that pioneered xiao long bao, oozing with luxury ingredients that include black truffles, foie gras, and crab roe. Ultramodern digs seat diners in view of an exhibition kitchen where 20 artisans handcraft a steady flow of dumplings to support a 75-dish menu starring dim sum and Sichuan classics. Walk-up wait list. 3333 Bristol St., 714-617-4630 $$

DINING GUIDE

THE WILD ARTICHOKE Chef-owner James D’Aquila and his winsome crew raise the culinary bar at this teensy, modest store front. Expect skillful, gourmet incarnations of com fort fare, such as pasta Bolognese. Desserts are few but mighty. 4973 Yorba Ranch Road, 714-777-9646. Beer and wine. Dinner only. $$

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

DINING NEWS To keep up with the latest Orange County dining news, subscribe to our O.C. Dining newsle er and follow our food and dining coverage at orangecoast.com. Bone marrow pizza at Terrace by Mix Mix

TAUGERMARIAHBYPHOTOGRAPH

ROYAL KHYBER Arun Puri, the creator behind Orange County’s first Indian restaurant, is still buying the spices and man ning 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 sig nature Khyber’s Nectar. 1621 W. Sunflower Ave., 714436-1010. $$

110 Orange Coast • September 2022 cakes and the Kingswood lamb sandwich, as well as smoothies and bowls. 3420 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-852-3044 $$

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. 1421 W. MacArthur Blvd., 714-850-1380. Beer and wine. $$

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-bot tle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$

THE YELLOW CHILLI

EMILY J.

What other projects have you been working on? I’ve been working as a fine artist and selling art pieces in galleries. It’s cool to be invited into that world and not just be thought of as a guy who makes T-shirts. I’m the creative director in residence at the Origyn Foundation, a Swiss-American blockchain team, where I design NFTs (non-fungible tokens), which are becoming a popular way to collect art. And I’ve been teaching classes at OCC and ArtCenter College of Design, as well as doing some fun workshops. Are the workshops open to anyone? Yes, we did some recently at Muzeo in Anaheim. It’s an elevated craft class. You get all the materials and tools, and I help you make your own thing. It’s pretty unique. I’m planning to have more for Halloween and the holiday season.

Huntington Beach native and art icon Paul Frank headlines year’s County Children’s Orange Coast College. Astgik Khatchatryan

photograph by DAVIS

Book Festival at

this

Tell us about the book “She Loves Me.”

The Orange County Children’s Book Festival is Oct. 2 at OCC.

PERSON OF INTEREST CHARACTER SKETCH

Are you still working with the Paul Frank brand? I design stuff for our global licensing— everything from my characters in astronaut suits for NASA to Julius the Monkey-shaped waffles in Asia. And I get so many young people tagging me on Instagram toting their vintage Paul Frank handbags or wearables.

Orange

I got to team up with a friend, Trevor McDonald, who is the son of Christina Amaral, my favorite teacher at Orange Coast College. When Trevor was little, he wrote this story about finding a flower and playing the game “She loves me, she loves me not.” I said, “I don’t draw people, but how about I take the story and turn it into animals?” I teamed up with Parker Jacobs, my longtime collaborator, and I designed the characters while he did the illustrations.

112 O RANGE C OAST • September 2022

partorwholeinReproductionreserved.rightsAllLLC.MagazineCoastOrangeby2022Copyright949-862-1133.92614.CAIrvine,125,SuiteDrive,CenterBusiness2102LLC,MagazineCoastOrangebymonthlypublishedareORANGECOAST.COMand360-630)USPSand02790483(ISSNCOASTORANGE9Issue48Vol. 12for$19.95U.S.continentalinratesSubscriptionoffices.entryadditionalandCAAngeles,LosatpaidpostageU.S.Periodicalenvelope.self-addressedstamped,abyaccompaniedbemustphotographsandartwork,manuscripts,Allmaterial.unsolicitedforresponsibleNotprohibited.ispermissionwrittenwithout year.onewithinaddresscorrectedareceiveweunlessobligationfurthernohaveweundeliverable,ismagazineyourthatusalertsServicePostaltheIf48071.MIHeights,MadisonDrive,AvisE.1965Coast,OrangetochangesaddressSendPOSTMASTER:$111.onlyyearoneinternational,$81;onlyyearoneCanada,months.SEE HIM!

The fact that I can still make people happy is really rewarding.

Michael Lugo Principal’79 EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

“My decision to attend Long Beach State was one originally rooted in its affordability and flexibility. But my experience at the university quickly pivoted into a transformative one — the complete package. The coursework, especially in marketing, was fascinating to me. My instructors set theory to practice, keeping me motivated and focused. I was well-positioned to launch my career. The knowledge gained and the relationships I developed at Long Beach State still impact my life to this day.”

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Orange Coast Magazine - September 2022

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PEOPLE & PLACES The Urban Forest in Huntington Beach’s Central Park

QUOTES Local chefs help MaxLove Project through a special fundraiser.

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