Orange Coast magazine - December 2021 by The Lifestyle Magazines of SoCal

GI V ING SE A S ON: Meet the helpers in our midst

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DECEMBER 98

TASTE THE WORLD IN O.C.

Until you can make your next trip abroad, we present travel itineraries that only require you to venture a few miles from home for the food and culture of your favorite destinations.

“Newport Beach’s Bello by Sandro Nardone bills itself as Italian food the way it’s served in Italy, which here mostly means traditional dishes refracted through a modern lens.” —MILES CLEMENTS ON PART OF THE CULINARY TOUR YOU’LL FIND IN O.C.

BY MILES CLEMENTS

112

SERVING A PURPOSE

Orange Lutheran High School senior Jacob Eusebio cofounded a tennis nonprofit that empowers kids with disabilities, garnering an award from tennis icon Billie Jean King in the process. BY ALIESE WILL ARD MUHONEN

114

RIGHT ON PAR

Jin Thatcher’s roots make her the perfect leader at the TGR Foundation. BY AL AN GIBBONS

115

SWEET CAUSE

Desserts, toys, and pizza offer a special delivery for kids at CHOC. BY AL AN GIBBONS

116

SPREADING HOPE

Adopting a family for the holidays provides good feelings all around. BY L AURA SAARI

O N T H E COV ER

Photograph by Emily J. Davis

4 ORA NGE C O A ST • December 2021

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

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DECEMBER 26

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EDITOR’S LET TER PEOPLE & PL ACES The Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights ’HOODS Satisfy your sweet tooth and grab a drink at these new spots on the border of Mission Viejo and Laguna Niguel.

PERFECT G E TAWAY Your guide to Coronado

C U LT U R E P H I L E Orange County pop funk band Undecided Future

O.C . E VENT S Holiday happenings for every age and taste

6 O RA NGE CO A ST • December 2021

ST YLE & HOME Fine jewelry at Elysewalker in Newport Beach

HOT SHOP Open Market OC at Pacific City in Huntington Beach

FINDS Opt for patterned pieces this season.

5 QUESTIONS WITH ... UC Irvine alumna and cofounder of Sammee, a DIY kit for boba drinks

FOOD TRENDS Local chef-owned hot sauces

ON THE MARKET A San Juan Capistrano property with extra rooms to host family for the holidays

MY O.C . A writer dreads the return of pre-pandemic social contact.

128

DINING GUIDE Many of our 200-plus reviews and a spotlight on the cocktails at Farmhouse

SOURCED House of Morrison in Costa Mesa

144 PI NE TRESROENS TO F

FOOD & DRINK Paradise Dynasty at South Coast Plaza will sate your dumpling craving.

WEB EXT R A S

Award-winning chefowner Ross Pangilinan (Mix Mix Kitchen + Bar and Terrace by Mix Mix) prepares an irresistible sunchoke, celery root, and green apple soup in Cathy Thomas’ kitchen. orangecoast.com /cathythomas Stay updated on more things to do in O.C. this holiday season. orangecoast.com /holidays

UC Irvine assistant professor of informatics Stacy Branham @ORANGECOASTMAG

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

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CASA ROMANTICA; LOBBY PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOTEL DEL CORONADO

DECEMBER SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS IN THIS ISSUE

Style Home

Industry Expert Q&A: Diane Powers, Bazaar Del Mundo

46-54 Trends

Real Estate & Mortgage All-Stars

74-95 Real Estate All-Star Listings 95-96 Mortgage All-Star Listings

119 A Helping Hand 120 Goodwill Industries of OC 121 Susan Love Foundation 122 Radiant Health Centers 123 TGR Foundation 124 United Way Orange County 125 Girls Scouts of OC 125 South County Outreach 126 Path 127 Charitable Events Calendar

133 Holiday Gift Guide OC Scenes 32 OCMA Art Sense Gala 68 Paciﬁc Symphony 126 CASA Celebration 130 The Hungry Games 4.0 137 Laura’s House 8 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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EDITOR’S LETTER

he holidays are a time for gratitude and generosity. When I think about where we were a year ago, I feel particularly appreciative. We can gather with loved ones and attend shows. It’s also the season for giving. We have several stories that highlight philanthropy in our community. (Pages 112 to 117). We hope they provide inspiration for ways to give back while making you grateful to be neighbors with these wonderful people. In that spirit, and as I look back over the work we’ve done this year, here’s what I’m thankful for.

1. The chance to get together with family and friends again 2. Kids back in school full time and going to dances and sporting events 3. Vaccines! 4. Our wonderful team at Orange Coast 5. Live performances (Page 26) 6. Yoga in new places 7. Our vast array of food choices (Page 98) 8. Massages 9. In-person events where folks support each other (O.C. Scene pages throughout this issue) 10. Comfortable dress shoes 11. Meeting new people face to face 12. Two years’ worth of best new restaurants at our celebration in May 13. Good feedback and ideas from readers 14. Whiskey and the chance to sample new brands at our event last month 15. Hugs (though not everyone is feeling welcoming of them, Page 66) 16. Lessons from the pandemic; people seem more focused on their passions 17. The amazing, close-to-home vacation options in our state—from Sonoma’s wine country to Ojai, and from national parks to a historic spot in Coronado (Page 20) 18. Outdoor dining: no longer required, but our weather is ideal for it 19. Inspiring Gen Z residents, some of whom we featured in October 20. The opportunity to highlight the stories and spirit of Orange County, in the challenging years, the optimistic years, and the years to come!

MS. AL AN GIBBONS

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

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

10 O RA NGE CO AST • December 2021

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

Come experience the new Wolf Dual Fuel Range at our showroom.

SCHEDULE A SHOWROOM APPOINTMENT 655 Anton Boulevard | Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Monday – Friday 9a.m. – 5p.m. Saturdays 10a.m. – 3p.m. Subzerosocal.com/costamesa (657) 269-5874

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

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CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Rachel Idzerda, Martha Napier, Pete Ryan

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12 ORA NGE CO A ST • December 2021

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• GOOD TIMES • morongocasinoresort.com

PEOPLE

PLACES

IN PL AIN SIGHT  T H E S C E N E Jaslyn Cao, 10, poses at Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights, which returns this season.  W H E R E The annual holiday display illuminates Dana Point Harbor with themed light exhibits, oversized decor, and this playful arch.  E X P L O R E R C R E D I T @summerjaslyn  B E H I N D T H E S H O T “(My daughter) Jaslyn loves to see holiday lights, so I helped her search for them in neighboring cities,” Jasmine Huynh says. “We came across Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights and the decor was amazing. Jaslyn’s favorite displays were Merry Kiss Me and the light tunnel.” 33°27'47.0"N 117°42'02.1"W

December 2021 • OR A NGE COAST 17

PEOPLE

PLACES ’ H O O D S

D O W N T H E H AT C H Satisfy your sweet tooth and grab a drink at these new spots on the border of MISSION VIEJO and LAGUNA NIGUEL. by Robin Jones

Ú G O O D TO KN OW

The signature drinks at Katsubo Tea are unlike any you’ll find at traditional milk tea shops. A second location is set to open in Fullerton. K AT S U B O TE A There are two good reasons to visit here: the seemingly unending drink menu, which fills a 20-foot LED screen on one wall; and the hundreds of bamboo sticks hanging from the ceiling, providing a striking photo backdrop for the picture-perfect milk, fruit, cheese-foam, and brown sugar boba teas ($4.50 to $6). Try the Ronin Matcha ($5.75), blended with crème brûlée, strawberry puree, and strawberry bits. 28251 MARGUERITE PARKWAY, MISSION VIEJO, 949-503-1687

PE N G O D R INK S TATI O N This cheery cafe, painted in bright shades of yellow and blue, mixes up tasty chocolate, strawberry, and matcha milkshakes ($5.25) and simple smoothies with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt ($5.25). But the real draw is the house specialty, made-to-order sparkling water spiked with fresh fruit, chia seeds, mint, and lime ($5.75). Choose from raspberry, strawberry, peach, mango, pineapple, kiwi, and other seasonal flavors. 26281 AVERY PARKWAY,

MILK A N D CO O KIE S

E S C A PE CR A F T B R E WE RY

The name says it all: The dessert spot serves cookies ($2), milk ($4), ice cream ($4 to $6.50), and not much else. It’s the second location of a popular Newport Beach shop, and it offers the same classic cookie and ice cream flavors as the original—think chocolate chunk, snickerdoodle, mint chocolate chip, and butter pecan. The milk choices provide a little whimsy, with flavors such as banana and orange cream.

The Redlands-based brewery opened this tasting room in early 2021. The revolving taps offer mostly pilsners, IPAs, and blonde ales but also typically include some sour beers and hard seltzers. Grab a few cans to go or order a pint and sip it on the patio. Come on a weekend, and you’ll also get to listen to live music and pair your beer with tacos or burgers from a local food truck.

28181 MARGUERITE PARKWAY,

28162 CAMINO CAPISTRANO,

MISSION VIEJO, 949-364-2672

LAGUNA NIGUEL, 909-713-3727

MISSION VIEJO, 949-878-5588

18 ORA NGE C O AST • December 2021

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

Creating Extraordinary Spaces Since 1984

PEOPLE

PLACES

P E R F E C T

G E T A W A Y

CO R O N A D O

ust over the picturesque bridge from downtown San Diego, this upscale community provides many opportunities to relax, recharge, and celebrate while feeling far away from home. Stroll along Orange Avenue to peek into toy stores, bookstores, boutiques, and more. Wander the neighborhoods full of beautiful homes or ride a bike down the pathway next to the sand. Take in views of San Diego’s skyline from Centennial Park. And step back in time with a visit to a historic hotel or museum. 20 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

U P D AT E D D I G S

This is not the Hotel del Coronado of old. In addition to rooms in the original 1888 building, two styles of accommodations have opened in the past year for those with more modern desires. Rooms and suites at The Cabanas capture ocean, coastline, or pool views. With patios or balconies on most of the rooms, this is a good place to unwind and fall asleep to the sound of the waves ($494 and up). Rooms at The Views are made for families or more active travelers as the tower sits right on the sand for in-and-out beach

access ($486 and up). The hotel also added a porch that captures a long-forgotten era of relaxing in a rocking chair. Focused, personal attention from warm staff members makes for an exceptional stay. H O L I D AY F E S T I V I T I E S

Through Jan. 2, glide around the ice rink at the Hotel del Coronado overlooking the ocean ($35 for 90 minutes). Other holiday offerings on the property include

ABOVE Historic Hotel del Coronado has a new driveway and porch.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOTEL DEL CORONADO

There’s plenty here to keep you occupied for the holidays. by Alan Gibbons

Not All Kids Go Home for the Holidays

Best Present Ever: Helping Kids At CHOC, we’re here for kids every day—because nothing should put a pause on childhood, especially not during the holidays. Become a Defender of Childhood now with a year-end, tax- deductible gift—and help kids get back to being kids. Learn how you can impact kids’ health and lives at foundation.choc.org

Don’t Delay

Give Now!

PEOPLE

PLACES T I P

F R O M

L O C A L

“Nado Republic is run by a family from Italy. It specializes in Roman-style Italian food, and it’s a fun place to go and hang out.” —ROB MONTGOMERY, CORONADO RESIDENT

RIGHT A stay at 1906 Lodge includes happy hour and fireplaces.

Jingle Roast, a private firepit on the sand for s’mores and merriment serving up to 10 people ($230 for one hour); the chance to decorate gingerbread houses ($60 per house); special dinners on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day ($175 for adults); holiday movies on the beach, and more. HIDDEN GEM

For a more intimate getaway, venture off the main path and revel in luxury at the historic 1906 Lodge ($272 and up). Your stay includes a daily happy hour, complimentary breakfast, and homemade cookies upon check-in. Renovated completely in 2009 to capture the details of the original property, the inn features fireplaces and spa tubs in many of the 17 rooms to lend a romantic spirit. Bikes, beach chairs, and umbrellas are ready for you to borrow, and the property’s gracious environs will beckon you back after each day’s adventures.

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

E U R O P E A N T R E AT

Tartine is a 20-year-old European cafe that turns into a bistro at night. Sweet pastries and coffeecakes as well as savory options such as croque monsieur ($13.50) and quiche ($14.50) are available all day. Or sit on the sidewalk patio and observe the quieter side of Coronado while downing handfuls of the best fries anywhere. You’ll fit in with the locals and maybe feel like one yourself because of the friendly service and cozy space. C A P T U R E D A R T I FA C T S

The Ice House Museum is in an 1889 building that was a working ice house. It contains photos, serving ware, and other mementos from more than a century of events at the Hotel del Coronado. Take in photos of Marilyn Monroe, Babe Ruth, and several presidents, and check out the guestbook to find a famous name on nearly every page. Join the docent-led Legendary Tour ($40 per person,

90 minutes) and get a peek at the tunnel beneath the property. SUNSET OPTION

A great spot for lunch overlooking the beach or sunset drinks, Sun Deck features a global spin on traditional coastal favorites. Spread out around a firepit while you linger over the California Mezze Plate that has veggies, goat cheese, edamame lemon hummus, spinach falafel, and flatbread ($26). Sip a Patio Punch cocktail— vodka, pomegranate liqueur, pineapple juice, and ginger ale ($17). ACTIVE SHORELINE

The beach features a 1.5-mile strand perfect for biking, jogging, skating, or strolling. Mica lends a golden sparkle to the sand, which is extra fine and soft on your feet. Ornate sandcastles often decorate the long, flat shoreline. Keep an eye out for proposals—they happen regularly in this perfect setting.

Dec. 31: Dinner and dancing in a Great Gatsby-themed speakeasy at the Hotel del Coronado will include a band, a DJ, a Champagne toast, and an open bar. $500 per person. hoteldel.com/events

22 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F H O T E L D E L C O R O N A D O A N D 1 906 L O D G E

LEFT The ice rink at Hotel del Coronado is a lovely holiday tradition.

GWOC_Mission_All_OrngCst_8x10.5.indd 1

10/27/21 11:07 AM

PEOPLE

PLACES

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

SCHOOL OF ROCK Orange County pop funk band Undecided Future is out to prove there’s nothing ambiguous about its talent. by Valerie Takahama

ead singer Matt Isaac, guitarist Cole Fredrick, keyboard player Nick Stone, and drummer Matisse Pasillas met at the Orange County School of the Arts nearly a decade ago and have played together since, joined by bassist Chris Trimmer. On YouTube’s “Best.Cover.Ever.” contest, they performed with multiplatinum singer Jason Derulo, who said, “They’re top-notch. … This is the real deal. So you all get ready.” Since polishing their act with a residency at Downtown Disney, they’ve launched new songs and videos that showcase their diverse musical influences and irrepressible vitality. Catch them at Muldoon’s Irish Pub in Newport Beach on Dec. 17. Pasillas (bottom of photo) tells us more about the band.

Was OCSA influential in the band’s development? Ú It was kind of like a Hogwarts for creatives. Personally, I’ve been surrounded by art and music my whole life, 24 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

so it’s cool to see other kinds of art. That’s one big thing about the band; we all come from different parts of California, and we all started with different musical tastes. When we came together, it was like a big (melting) pot of genres. The band’s performances have an upbeat, dance-y vibe. How did that come about? Ú About four years ago, our previous manager had us meet (the late Garry) “Michi” Robinson, who was a trainer for live shows. He trained Justin Bieber and Usher. It was like a boot camp with him for a week. We learned how people like Bruno Mars perform a show because it’s really a workout. It’s a lot of learning how to breathe and when to breathe. We would do jump-rope sessions where we memorized a poem, and he would tell us how loud we’d have to recite it. We’d have to run laps shouting this poem. One of those days at

the camp, I was on Bruno Mars’ Instagram, and he was like, “Oh, just training before my show at the Hollywood Bowl.” It’s a picture of him jump-roping backstage. I was like, I guess we’re doing the right thing. How does the band write songs? Ú Each song is completely different. Each of us are capable of producing music; we

all play multiple instruments. Maybe Cole, our guitar player, will start the beat and maybe Nick will add a totally different chord structure so it turns into a different song. Or vice versa. Sometimes we’ll be in the studio all together and come up with a song. Sometimes our producer will come up with an idea that we all hop on. It’s really collaborative. It’s never one guy writing it. It’s all of us.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JADE MARIE

How did the band get its name? Ú We had a gig super lastminute at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s (Pacific Islander) Festival. Two days before the show, we couldn’t come up with a name, so we just said, “Undecided.” We Googled that, and there was already a band (with that name). One of us just put “Future” alongside of it. We were just, “OK, slap it on there. We just need a name; let’s go.” It kind of stuck with us like a curse. For a while, we didn’t really like the name because it felt so last minute. But as we played more shows, people were like, “Oh, I really relate to your name.” People thought it meant something to them, so we stuck with it.

211028 5 Points Orange Coast F-P ad B f.pdf

10/29/21

1:09 PM

PEOPLE

PLACES DEC. 4 THROUGH 30 CAPISTRANO LIGHTS

Come to witness the nightly lighting of the 30-foot tree at 5 p.m. and stay to enjoy the live music, take photos under the 10-foot wreath, and place a candle in the Great Stone Church. Live carolers, kids’ crafts, treat vendors, and Santa make appearances on certain evenings. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949-234-1300, missionsjc.com

THROUGH DEC. 26 “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”

South Coast Repertory founding member Richard Doyle takes over the role of Ebenezer Scrooge this year in the company’s annual production of the classic Dickens tale. He performed every role in last year’s audio version of the play. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org DEC. 1 THROUGH 22 CASA LUMINA HOLIDAY WALK

Casa Romantica transforms into a winter wonderland for this annual celebration, with hundreds of lights and holiday decorations adorning the historic home and gardens. While strolling through the property, visitors can watch live performances from local musicians, order a custom concoction from the hot cocoa bar, and write a letter to Santa. On Dec. 14, the event will include a screening of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org DEC. 3 THROUGH 23

DON’T MISS IN DECEMBER Festive celebrations for every taste by Robin Jones

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

THROUGH DEC. 19

HOLIDAY LUMINARIA STROLL

SAWDUST FESTIVAL WINTER FANTASY

The lush gardens of the Fullerton Arboretum get dressed up for the holidays at this annual event. Visitors can enjoy a walk along paths lined with luminarias, listen to live music, sip a warm drink, and shop at a market stocked with ceramic and glass artwork created by Cal State Fullerton students. Fullerton Arboretum, 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657-278-3407, fullertonarboretum.org

The summer favorite transforms itself, offering handcrafted artwork, jewelry, ceramics, and sculpture on the festival grounds, which have been decorated for the season with ornaments, garlands, and lights. Musicians, carolers, puppeteers, and daily visits from Santa provide the entertainment. Sawdust Festival Grounds, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-4943030, sawdustartfestival.org

26 O RA NGE CO A ST • December 2021

“A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS”

The annual Chance Theater tradition returns this season, bringing Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang back to the stage. The family-friendly show follows the friends as they produce their own Christmas play and discover the true spirit of the season. Like the TV special, the play features the classic soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim Hills, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com DEC. 3 THROUGH 29 “ROBIN HOOD AND MAID MARION: A HOLIDAY PANTO”

The classic tale of the lovable outlaw gets a musical update in this family-friendly show. Performed in the style of a British Panto—a traditional fairy tale infused with music, dancing, and audience participation—the show is set to a 1970s disco soundtrack. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

P H O T O G R A P H B Y VA L W E S T O V E R

E V E N T S

THE NEW YORK TIMES

Artistic Director: Kevin McKenzie

DEC 10–19

With Tchaikovsky’s magical score performed by Pacific Symphony

Photo: Rosalie O’Connor

SEGERSTROM HALL

(714) 556-2787 | SCFTA.org Group Services (714) 755-0236

The Nutcracker is presented by

PEOPLE

PLACES THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

The mile-long drive-through experience features more than a million sparkling lights, holiday-themed immersive vignettes, dancers, toy soldiers and snow angels, animated light shows that sync to music you can play on your car radio, and snow flurries and bubbles floating by your car. Come by Dec. 24, and you might get to see Santa. OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714708-1500, ocfair.com

DEC. 4 AND 8 CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

Illuminated by candlelight and accompanied by a pianist and organist, members of the Pacific Chorale usher in the season with a selection of traditional Christmas carols, including “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “God Rest You Merry Gentlemen,” “Silent Night,” and “Dona Nobis Pacem.” Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, 2100 Mar Vista Drive, Newport Beach, 714-662-2345, pacificchorale.org

DEC. 5

GABRIEL A MONTERO

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

The program from the Grammy-nominated pianist will feature rarely heard selections from Prokofiev, Rachmaninoff, and Stravinsky, three composers who immigrated to the West to escape oppression in their home country. To close out the performance, Montero will improvise a piano score to Charlie Chaplin’s film short “The Immigrant.” Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-5532422, philharmonicsociety.org

The Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony join forces to celebrate the season with a performance of the much-loved oratorio, complete with the resounding “Hallelujah!” chorus. Robert Moody will conduct, with soloists Mary Wilson (soprano), Logan Tanner (countertenor), Taylor Stayton (tenor), and Theo Hoffman (baritone). Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org

Milanka boutique brings to your attention a collection of handmade gifts for Christmas and other holidays. Our gifts are unique and you will not find anything similar in other stores. You must see these masterpieces in person to truly appreciate them!

milankamilanka.com 2836 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 (949) 500-8799 @milanka_brand

@milankastore

MENTION PROMO CODE “OCmAG TO RECEIVE A UNIQUE MILANKA SOUVENIR

28 ORA NGE C O AST • December 2021

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NIGHTS OF LIGHTS OC

Additionally, Milanka boutique provides photography services, costume photo shoots and an amazing photo studio for rent.

International Award-Winning Author

Connie Spenuzza, MSEd.

“Unusually rich in imagery, history, and spirituality. Unique, mesmerizing.”—KIRKUS REVIEWS “Joyously refreshing … poetry in motion.” —US REVIEW OF BOOKS

“Inspiring and fascinating.”—FOREWORD REVIEWS

AVAILABLE AT ALL BOOK SELLERS

www.ConnieSpenuzza.com

PEOPLE

PLACES DEC. 11 THROUGH 24

FESTIVAL BALLET THEATRE’S “THE NUTCRACKER”

Choreographed and directed by Festival Ballet Theatre’s artistic director, Salwa Rizkalla, this full-length production of the holiday show features some of Southern California’s best young ballet dancers performing alongside the company’s professional dancers and renowned guest stars. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org DEC. 8 THROUGH 12 DISNEY ON ICE’S “DREAM BIG”

Disney heroes—including Belle from “Beauty and the Beast,” Elsa from “Frozen,” Miguel from “Coco,” and Moana—will join Mickey and Minnie in this ice-skating show about being brave, conquering your fears, and chasing your dreams. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-704-2500, hondacenter.com DEC. 10 THROUGH 22 NIGHTS OF 1000 LIGHTS

Past years have featured a tunnel of lights, a “Blue Christmas”-themed garden, a giant gingerbread house, Santa’s workshop, a holiday

photo booth, arts and crafts activities, and coffee and hot chocolate. Sherman Library & Gardens, 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, 949-673-2261, thesherman.org DEC. 10 THROUGH 19 AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE’S “THE NUTCRACKER”

Featuring a set and costumes by Richard Hudson, who won a Tony Award for his work on “The Lion King,” and choreography by ABT Artist in Residence Alexei Ratmansky, this ver-

TS 9 KE $2 C I T M O FR

sion of the classic holiday ballet brings to life the story of Clara and her dream journey. ABT principal dancers Hee Seo and Cory Stearns will star as Clara and the Nutcracker Prince on opening night. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org DEC. 11 THE BEAUTIFUL DAY: KURT ELLING SINGS CHRISTMAS

Known for his rich baritone and improvisational skills, Elling has been called one of the

TIS THE SEASON!

Festive seasonal selections, fun new surprises, and even Santa himself await in Orange County’s merriest holiday extravaganza! Sun, Dec 19, 2021 Mon, Dec 20, 2021

Buy your tickets today at Robert Istad, Artistic Director & Conductor

30 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

PacificChorale.org (714) 662-2345

Pacific Chorale is a proud Resident Company of

PHOTOGRAPH BY SKYE SCHMIDT

Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa

La Galleria

Customer Appreciation Night Saturday, Dec. 4 12 - 6pm

La Galleria offers a unique selection of sophisticated sportswear, eveningwear, special occasion dresses including Mother of the Wedding, with special orders available to fit your sizing needs. With excellent customer service, you will feel as if you have a personal shopper, ready to help you find exactly what you are looking for. Be sure to stop in to shop and chat, we would love to meet you! Call us at 714-544-6340 and visit us at lagalleriatustin.com.

Charleston Provence Boutique

Holiday Special Gift with Purchase Saturday, Dec. 4 2 – 6pm

charlestonprovence.com

Charleston Provence Boutique is your escape into a luxurious world of European linens, spa essentials, custom candles, and decorative home accessories. From handcrafted soaps made in the heart of France to our own private label Giza Egyptian cotton bedding from Florence, Charleston Provence Boutique captures the essence of beauty and luxury for you and your home.

Chemers Gallery

Holiday Artisan Faire

Saturday and Sunday Dec. 4 & 5 12 – 5pm

Please visit us for our annual customer appreciation on December 4 from 11-4 and receive a kitchen towel with your purchase of $35 or more, and follow us on facebook and instagram to stay up to date.

ENDERLECENTER.COM EnderleCenter.indd 1

Have yourself a Handmade Holiday and celebrate the joy of unique gift giving! On Saturday Dec. 4th and Sunday Dec. 5th (12-5pm) Chemers Gallery will host its 8th Annual Holiday Artisan Faire. 15 artisans will be in attendance with a variety of hand-crafted jewelry, wearable fiber, ceramics, glass wood and gourmet edibles. Get into the holiday spirit with hand blown glass ornaments and Lovepop holiday pop-up cards to make the gift giving season extra special. Find something for everyone on your list... and maybe even win something special in our raffle during the weekend! With happiness in the air a jolly good time will be had by all! Masks will be required. For more information call Chemers Gallery 714-731-5432 or visit chemersgallery.com.

Celebratin 1978

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Years

14081 Yorba St., Ste 107, Tustin, CA 92780 • 714-731-2911 Seventeenth & Yorba, 55 fwy North or South, Exit 17th Street East, Tustin

11/10/20 4:43 PM

PEOPLE

PLACES DEC. 12

NOCHEBUENA: CHRISTMAS EVE IN MEXICO

Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar headline this Christmas-themed show focused on the traditions of Mexico, including the children’s posada processions and the ceremonies held on Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org

all-time great jazz vocalists by jazz critics around the world. He has been nominated for 15 Grammy Awards and has toured and recorded with the likes of Branford Marsalis, the Bob Mintzer Big Band, and the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra. In this concert, he’ll sing a mix of traditional carols and contemporary Christmas songs. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org OPENS DEC. 12 “ALL THAT GLITTERS: THE CROWN JEWELS OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES”

Some of the top names in fashion designed all types of jewelry—from rings and bracelets to

watches and tie clips—for costumes in Disney and 20th Century Studios films. This exhibit shows off iconic pieces, including the “Heart of the Ocean” necklace from “Titanic” and Anne Hathaway’s crowns and tiaras from “The Princess Diaries” movies. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714-567-3600, bowers.org DEC. 15 THROUGH 17

cast and the movie adaptation of “Jersey Boys.” With music director Tommy Faragher on piano, he’ll perform songs from “The Wiz,” “Chicago,” “Dreamgirls,” “Hair,” and, yes, “Jersey Boys.” Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org DEC. 15 THROUGH 19

JOHN LLOYD YOUNG’S BROADWAY

113TH NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE

Young, a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor and singer, was in the original Broadway

Competing for top honors, the yacht, boat, kayak, and canoe owners participating in this

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

PA RT I E S

EVENTS

OPENINGS

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) hosted its first Art Sense Gala, which took place in person at the construction site of the museum’s forthcoming building at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. One of the first major in-person events of the season, the sold-out Art Sense Gala had a futuristic theme, welcomed 280 guests, and netted $1 million for the museum and its operations. Photo Credit: Ryan Miller

32 ORA NGE CO A ST • December 2021

PHOTOGRAPH BY AR PHOTOGRAPHY

OCMA’S ART SENSE GALA 2021

PEOPLE

PLACES

long-standing holiday tradition go all out with their decorations, festooning their vessels with thousands of lights and even special effects, all in line with the “Jingle on the Waves” theme. Homeowners along the parade route also get in the spirit, draping their houses with extravagant decorations. Starting and ending at the tip of Lido Isle, Newport Beach, christmasboatparade.com DEC. 19 “A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHRISTMAS”

Conducted by Michael Short, the Orange County Community Chorus, Southern California Brass Consortium, and Southern California Children’s Chorus join with local dance troupes to perform carols in this spirited holiday concert. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org DEC. 19 AND 20 “TIS THE SEASON!”

This festive concert from Pacific Chorale features an upbeat mix of favorite holiday music, including songs like “Jingle Bells,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” “White Christmas,” and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Santa makes an appearance at the family-friendly show. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-662-2345, pacificchorale.org

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1294 S. Coast Highway, Suite C, Laguna Beach EuropeanOpticalinc.com | 949.494.6106

DEC. 21 HOLIDAY ORGAN SPECTACUL AR

Organist Todd Wilson will play the $3.1million William J. Gillespie Concert Organ in this performance of favorite Christmas carols and traditional organ works. He’ll be accompanied by Barry Perkins on trumpet and Mindy Ball on harp. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5788, pacificsymphony.org DEC. 31 RITA RUDNER’S HAPPY, VACCINATED NEW YEAR’S EVE

PHOTOGRAPH BY AR PHOTOGRAPHY

The comedian, who performed in her first HBO special in 1987, has appeared in films and TV shows, acted and danced on Broadway, and written multiple New York Times bestsellers. She’ll ring in the New Year with Laguna Beach comedy duo Jason Feddy and Molly Bergman, otherwise known as Age Gap. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

M OR E ONLINE !

For more events and listings or to subscribe to our newsletter, go to orangecoast.com/events.

Happy Holidays from Hi-Time! Looking for the top wines, spirits, brews and cigars for 2021? Our Annual Holiday Newsletter is here and with it our Top Picks for 2021! 2021 Visit us in-store on online to find your faves! Hi-Time Wine Cellars

250 Ogle Street • Costa Mesa, CA 92627 • 949.650.8463 • hitimewine.net December 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 33

gae tan oi n c . c om 714.536.6942 CUSTOM INSTALLATION & REFINISHING FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1955

Photography credit: Darlene Halaby

STYLE

HOME

H O L I DAY S P I R I T THE FIND Necklace ($140,000), ring ($5,500), and cuff ($55,000) from Hoorsenbuhs shop-in-shop at Elysewalker GOOD TO KNOW The space that houses fine jewelry by Hoorsenbuhs was originally a bank vault. WHERE Elysewalker, Newport Beach, 949-612-2646

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

December 2021 • OR A NGE COAST 35

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S H O P

OPEN MARKET OC

The boutique featuring local vendors opened its Huntington Beach location in July. by Chelsea Raineri

n the second floor of Pacific City in Huntington Beach, Open Market OC has opened its newest location. Views of the ocean are on display through floor-to-ceiling windows. But the striking dried floral arrangement hanging from the ceiling is what draws attention immediately. The piece was crafted by Hadley and Ren, just one of the store’s 50 local vendors, the majority of which are based in Orange County. While the first Open Market OC locations in Laguna Hills and Santa Ana are each 50,000 square feet with booths hosted by vendors, the Huntington Beach location is significantly smaller, at 5,000 square feet, and features a new concept. Creative director Tara Lynn designed this storefront as a unified boutique, with the various brands spread throughout the store. “I thought (this strategy) would be really fun,” Lynn says. “The view is amazing, and we saw it as a new and exciting concept for Open Market while still representing all of our local vendors.” Shop for gifts this holiday season while supporting local artisans and vendors such as Moonchylde Collective (modern jewelry and accessories) and Milk and Honey Baby (baby clothes and accessories). “Everything in here is unique; you won’t find it in big-box stores,” Lynn says.

Open Market OC 21028 Pacific Coast Highway Huntington Beach openmarketoc.com

H A I T I A N-M A D E

Hope Journey Co. earrings, $37.90 36 ORA NGE CO A ST • December 2021

SWEET STRIPES

Milk and Honey Baby onesie, $42

S PA R K S F LY

Tucker’s Paws candle, $52 photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

STYLE

HOME

F I N D S

PATTERN MAKER

Opt for patterned pieces for the holidays. by Chelsea Raineri 6

Rosantica Holli cage pearl and crystal clutch, $1,175, Intermix, South Coast Plaza, 714-754-7895

Sweater, $2,550; top, $2,200; skirt, $9,350, Chanel, South Coast Plaza, 714-754-7455

38 ORA NGE C O AST • December 2021

Scottish redcheckered blazer, $690, The Extreme Collection, Fashion Island, 888-389-4242

Gucci calf-length monogram socks, $195, The Webster, South Coast Plaza, 714-754-1366

Fendi Colibri mesh slingback pumps, $980, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-759-1900

Rhythm ruched glitter mini dress, $1,950, Zimmermann, South Coast Plaza, 949-274-7514

THE COMFORT CLASSICS Single Layer Arch Premier Leather Upper Slip-On loafer Double Stitched Triple Glued Bonded Nylon Thread Non-Slip Rainbow® Bottom Original Rainbow® Woven Label

REPAIR

•

REUSE

•

RECYCLE

Our commitment doesn’t end when you leave the store. Since 1974, we have repaired and reused over 400,000 sandals that are donated to needy feet around the world. Our goal is to help those in need and stop broken sandals from going to a landﬁll and polluting our oceans.

WWW.RAINBOWSANDALS.COM

STYLE

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M A R K E T

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS $3.5 million San Juan Capistrano

WISDOM

Imelda Buncab, community engagement manager for Share Our Selves, talks about volunteer opportunities taking place this month.

FROM

a volunteer expert

WHAT THEY DO …

We have medical and dental services, a pharmacy, a food pantry, financial assistance, a diaper bank, as well as other ways that we can help our folks in need. We have to remember that the people we’re supporting are our neighbors. They are people who live in our community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. We’re here to care for them, help them, and support them.

40 O RA NGE CO AST • December 2021

HOW TO HELP …

The holidays are a really exciting time for us because a major event that you can volunteer at is our Adopt a Family program. People can look on our Adopt a Family website at the different family profiles and then pick a family— that’s who they’re going to help have a wonderful holiday and fulfill their wish list.

STARTING TRADITIONS …

What I love about it is it has become a tradition for volunteers who have participated in it. We have some groups that have been involved with us as long as the program has been in existence; then we have some folks who become new volunteers, and at the end of their experience they say they’re going to make it a tradition.

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

P R O P E R T Y P H O T O G R A P H S B Y A N D R E W B R A M A S C O ; H E A D S H O T C O U R T E S Y O F S H A R E O U R S E LV E S

 5,487 square feet 4 bedrooms  5 bathrooms  Wine lovers can indulge in the custom glass wine cellar.  Of note: This home features a master bedroom and three additional bedrooms, including the one pictured below, that can be used to host family.  30372 Marbella Vista  Jeff Golden, 949-275-1989, and Tim Smith, 949-678-1070

orman

Framing & Gallery

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HOUSE OF MORRISON The furniture and decor boutique relocated to Costa Mesa in 2020. by Chelsea Raineri

hen Denise Morrison’s lease ended at her namesake boutique’s Newport Beach location, she decided to move to a smaller storefront down the street in Costa Mesa to stay in the community. “I love that the people here love and support us,” Morrison says. “I think there’s a

charm to this location.” The boutique sells home decor and furniture that’s a mix of vintage finds and modern pieces that Morrison refers to as “warm, modern, and organic.” Customers can also take advantage of her interior design services. This month, shop House of Morrison’s holiday collection.

2 4

CHAIR “It’s vintage; I picked it up out of state. We’re always on the hunt for oneof-a-kind pieces,” Morrison says. $1,125

ORNAMENTS “I think ornaments can be used as decor in a bowl. It’s a really beautiful centerpiece.” $8 to $25

42 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

PILLOWS “We pulled in some earthy colors and then a little holiday spice with the persimmon and green.” $165 to $185

VA S E “We’re always mixing in anything that adds texture and has a little history.” $105

COUCH “It’s got this beautiful classic arm and a faux slipcover; I love the casualness of that.” $4,650

STOOL “It’s so versatile and great to bring into a room without taking up a lot of space.” $750

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

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

Style

HOME

Industry Expert Q&A: PG. 44 Trends: PGS. 46-54 Photo: Westminster Teak | westminsterteak.com December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 43

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INDUSTRY EXPERT Q&A

INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN with Diane Powers

Celebrating 50 years in business, Diane Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo attracts thousands of visitors to San Diego with her curated collection of amazing treasures. She discovered her passion for color and cultures during her extensive travels in Mexico, Latin America, Europe and Asia. An accomplished entrepreneur and design professional, Power oversees the Bazaar’s collection of boutique shops featuring women’s fashions & accessories, tabletop, Mata Ortiz pottery, and folk art treasures – all capturing the spirit and adventure of a world traveler. She also created and operates three award-winning Mexican restaurants in San Diego County, including Casa Guadalajara next door to Bazaar del Mundo in Old Town.

Q How would you describe your signature style? ? A

Colorful, creative and unique. I am not super trendy, but I have my own signature style that I’ve developed over the years. I love fashion and accessories.

Q What has inspired your style and design? A

Diane Powers Bazaar del Mundo

My early travel days after college influenced my style greatly. I traveled all throughout Mexico, Central America, India, Morocco, China and most of Europe. Seeing and experiencing all those countries had an amazing influence on my style at such a young age. The more I traveled the more I got to experience and learn about different cultures, architecture and food.

Q How do you keep up with a successful business for 50 years? A

We couldn’t have done it without our devoted customers and longtime dedicated staff, whose support continues to be the foundation of our success.

Q How would you describe the Bazaar del Mundo shopping experience? A

Bazaar del Mundo | 4133 Taylor Street, San Diego, CA 92110 | 619.296.3161 44 Ora nge C oast • December 2021

Everything has been carefully selected to reflect the colorful cultures we so passionately admire. The atmosphere at Bazaar del Mundo is festive, authentic and inviting. Shoppers can stroll throughout the many shops, soaking in the vibrant colors, rich textiles and the beauty of handcrafted, oneof-a-kind items.

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TRENDS 1

Westminster Teak

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

Creating spaces for better living.

c h i c d e s i g ng r o up c o. c o m 201.281.6316 | 657.232.0001 STONEMILL DESIGN CENTER: 2915 RED HILL AVE STE F106, COSTA MESA CA 92626

With over 20 years of experience and a true passion for kitchen design, Chic Design Group has the tools and skills to create your dream kitchen. Formed by a love of history, Chic Design Group offers beautiful Italian kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, walking closets, and interior doors. Beautifying homes since 2000 Please call us for an appointment and come check out our beautiful, newly renovated showroom!

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Chic Design Group

Innovative and Exclusive The large pivoting door is an exclusive idea by ModulNova. With aluminum honeycomb panel plated on 2 sides, to which the chosen finish is applied. An ultra-slim, integrated panel is used for different solutions, providing previously unknown flexibility. 210.281.6316 chicdesigngroupco.com

Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

Contemporary Design with glass railing. These custom stairs are solid white oak treads and risers with a 1-1/2" square edge detail. Hand Crafted and installed by: Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc. 714.536.6942 gaetanoinc.com 4

VERGOLA

The VERGOLA® opening and closing roof system gives you control over your environment. With smart rain sensor technology and double skin aerofoil louvers for better insulation, the VERGOLA® lets you relax or entertain outdoors, rain or shine. 855.949.8374 vergola.com 48 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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

The largest display of folding doors in California! Carrying the only fully integrated door system with screens and shades built by

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WE DO IT ALL! Call for a FREE ESTIMATE 949-333-3711 TheFoldingDoorStore.com Visit our showroom today! 1350 Reynolds Ave., Ste 117 | Irvine, CA 92614

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SOCO and the OC Mix

Cantoni

Nasdaq Desk Eye-catching angles and unique materials combine to create a desk that is more than a place to work - it's also as sculptural as it is functional. Not only does Nasdaq make a bold statement with its sleek ceramic top, but it also provides ample working space and unexpected storage in its floating storage box. Designed by Paolo Cattelan. Made in Italy. 949.585.9191 cantoni.com

Pacific Shore Stones

The Chic Home Bar! What’s more relaxing than having the freedom to entertain or have a nightcap in your own home? Lately, it hasn’t always been possible to go out to your favorite cocktail lounges. Pamper yourself and your friends in style with a home bar, there are plenty of designs to inspire you! 949.536.5055 pacificshorestones.com 50 Ora nge C oast • December 2021

LOUVERS OPEN AND CLOSE

OUTDOOR LIVING FOR ALL SEASONS. The award-winning VERGOLA® is the original and best operable louver roof system for residential or commercial application. For over 35 years VERGOLA® has remained the number one choice for enhancing the use of your outdoor space and adding value to your home or business. Total control of light, heat, shade and ventilation Weatherproof with automatic sensor to close during rain Custom design and configuration by inhouse specialists Installation by VERGOLA® licensed contractors Engineering and permits all organized by VERGOLA® Full manufacturer’s warranty

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION IN HOME ESTIMATE. 855-WHY-VERGOLA (855-949-8374) OR 213-995-6877

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Visit our purpose-built showroom 13800 Crenshaw Blvd, Hawthorne 90249 vergola.com / vergolausa CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE #1022142

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Builders Surplus Kitchen & Bath Cabinets

So Cal’s Largest Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Warehouse, Over 20,000 Cabinets Assembled & In Stock. 20 Kitchen Styles Assembled & In Stock, 65 Vanity Styles Assembled & In Stock. We can provide assistance with laying out and designing your kitchen and bath, should you need our help. 888.299.1261 BuildersSurplus.Net

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove

The Wolf Dual Fuel Range combines professional heritage, stunning aesthetic, and innovative performance into one bold cooking package. It's durable construction and intuitive features ensure every home chef can enjoy guesswork-free cooking and predictably delicious results for decades. Showroom: 657.269.5874 subzerosocal.com/costamesa

PIRCH

The award-winning HydroTap by Zip Water instantly dispenses boiling, chilled and even sparkling water all at the touch of a button. The faucet is always safe to the touch, so less chance or burning, is more convenient than purchased drinking water, and reduces plastic water bottle waste. The system is available in a wide range of faucet designs and finishes to complement any kitchen style. See it on our website and on display in our Costa Mesa showroom. brands.pirch.com/zip-water Costa Mesa – 949.429.0800 Coming soon to Mission Viejo! Pirch.com

52 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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WHY PAY MORE? SEE IT, BUY IT, TAKE IT HOME TODAY!

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The Folding Door

From your imagination to installation, The Folding Door Store can make your dream home a reality. With over 30 years of construction experience, the owner, Brad Kinder, and his team of design consultants are the best choice to help you seamlessly bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home. 949.333.3711 TheFoldingDoorStore.com

Bazaar del Mundo shops

Overflowing with treasures and women’s fashions from around the globe, you’ll find one-of-a-kind handcrafted folk art, colorful home and garden accessories, artisan jewelry, unique collectibles, and so much more at the always vibrant Bazaar del Mundo Shops. Celebrating 50 years in business in San Diego, owner-operator Diane Powers has created and continues to curate an international shopping destination beloved by residents across southern California, the Southwest, and beyond. Experience the true spirit of shopping as you travel around the world at Diane Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo Shops in Old Town San Diego. 619-296-3161 bazaardelmundoshops.com

54 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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FOOD

DRINK

R A I N B OW X I AO L O N G B AO THE DISH A basket of eight multicolored steamed soup dumplings THE DETAILS Each naturally dyed dumpling represents a different flavor from Szechuan (red) to black truffle. THE PRICE $13.80 THE PL ACE Paradise Dynasty at South Coast Plaza TURN THE PAGE for our review.

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

December 2021 • OR A NGE COAST 57

PHOTOGRAPH BY TKTK

58 O RA NGE CO AST • December 2021

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

FOOD M A I N

DRINK

C O U R S E

PA R A D I S E D Y N A S T Y New spot at South Coast Plaza will sate your dumpling craving. by Gretchen Kurz

PHOTOGRAPH BY TKTK

s this the golden epoch of dumplings? All signs point to yes, after years of building to the current crescendo, signified by the September debut of Paradise Dynasty at South Coast Plaza. Lengthy lines are here to stay, given we saw this movie in 2013 when Din Tai Fung arrived with a waitlist that has yet to wane. Clearly, there’s plenty of dumpling adoration to share with this new player parked at the Bloomingdale’s end of the world-class retail destination. Rarely has a new restaurant generated so many “How is it?” queries. My short answer: slightly the same but irrefutably different than Din Tai Fung. Differences grew more detectable with every successive visit. Let’s begin with those bamboo steamers laden with dozens of tender xiao long bao, literally oozing hand-crafted rapture. It’s rare to see a table here without one, or five. Steamers by the stack are now a common sight in O.C., considering the emergence of more than 20 dumpling shops in recent years. Start with the specialty rainbow sampler— everyone else does. Eight distinctly varied juicy dumplings with color-coordinated wrappers to suit. Servers hand out tiny cheat sheets to guide you from delicate to rich to bold fillings. Jade green for luffa gourd, black for black truffle, chile red for fiery chicken, and so on. Find a favorite and order a basket of more, in batches of six or 10. I can’t quit the lush foie gras dumplings that release a silky flood of umami unlike any foie dish that’s gone before. Next time, I’ll conquer my dependence and swap to a basket of musky black truffle or saltysweet crab roe XLB. Luxury dumplings are the Paradise Dynasty hallmark, a breakaway from the Singapore

pack that’s paid off spectacularly. Though this is founder Eldwin Chua’s first foray in the U.S., he’s setting up for more and his record is impressive—45 locations across Asia since starting in 2008, plus many additional concepts for a total of 100 units in the Paradise Group, Singapore’s largest restaurant operator. The sprawling 200-seat Paradise Dynasty dominates the Bloomingdale’s-operated space, once home to Charlie Palmer Restaurant, now remodeled to include petite sister concept Le Shrimp Ramen downstairs. Sleek and straightforward, the top floor setting’s centerpiece is an exhibition kitchen that showcases 20 nimble dumpling artists fussing over your next order. An 11-stool bar serves beer, wine, and sake cocktails for now, and it’s the stealthy way for one or two to snag a no-wait seat. Swish chandeliers worthy of a high-glitz Las Vegas destination trick out the expanse. Don’t let the scores of deluxe XLBs distract you from the 83-item menu rich with consummate dishes. Whether you wrestle with page after page of the hardcover tome, scroll through the QR code edition, or take the wise advice of patient servers, consider all categories. Appetiz-

3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa 714-617-4630 5 BEST DISHES Lettuce wraps XLB dumpling sampler Spicy Szechuan Crispy Chicken Pork chop fried rice Pork/prawn wonton soup PRICE RANGE Dim sum, $2.20 to $9.80 Dumplings, $6.80 to $22.80 Hot dishes, $10.80 to $18.80 Rice/noodle dishes, $11.80 to $13.80 Desserts, $4.80 to $7.80 FYI French macarons inspired founder Eldwin Chua’s rainbow XLB sampler.

LEFT Clockwise: Lettuce wraps, radish-filled pastry, and Spicy Szechuan Crispy Chicken RIGHT The modern dining room at Paradise Dynasty photographs by E M I LY J . D AV I S

December 2021 • OR A NGE COAST 59

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DRINK ers, dim sum, la mian, fried noodles, rice dishes—all have their intriguing options. Up for something red hot? The Spicy Szechuan Crispy Chicken dish is admirably fiery thanks to liberal use of sliced garlic and chopped red peppers. I’m told that early on, the kitchen tamed spicy dishes in deference to local palates until customers pressed for the customary full magnitude. Mapu tofu is easier on the tongue-numbing green peppercorns, so that ginger and garlic are also obvious in the russet pork sauce that transforms a bowl of fragrant rice into cool-weather contentment. Two dim sum dishes on constant repeat in my memory are the warm radishfilled pastry with countless fragile layers, and a tidy stack of cool, crisp lettuce rolls that taste like the color green. Until dunked into their gentle sesame sauce. They’re vivid, squeaky fresh, and addictively novel. Springy la mian noodles are carb-

Peach tree resin soup

heavy skeins of satisfaction should you tire of translucent dumpling skins. Consider the soulful topping of mushrooms with minced pork or pan-fried Shanghai pork buns. Pork chop over fried rice is a fairly mainstream call, but so what if that means you’re compelled to eat every grain. Don’t skip soups, starring the spellbinding pork bone soup— intense, nuanced, and rightly acclaimed. Prawn and pork wontons are extra lush when paired with the signature broth. As exalted as Kurobuta pork is here,

just know chicken is a sleeper pick, particularly the XLB or chicken dumplings in chile vinaigrette. Dessert is clearly a distinguishing forte. Pancakes with red bean paste are likely more familiar than, say, the sweet soup of peach tree resin (sap) and chopped curls of snow fungus, a clear sort of mushroom with a bouncy texture. Griddle-hot pumpkin pastries are the healthiest doughnuts in Costa Mesa. Warm black sesame balls are one-bite treats that go down like peanut butter mochi. I predict our keen appetite for juicy dumplings will only increase with the options available. Don’t expect waits to decrease at either end of South Coast Plaza. Paradise Dynasty is doubling down on dumplings, and the increased supply is a welcome bonus. Consider it an embarrassment of riches, then finagle a way to visit midweek between lunch and dinner when lines are shortest. photograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

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JASMINE CHUNG UC Irvine alumna and cofounder of Sammee, a DIY kit for boba drinks by Michelle Pagaran

WHAT WAS YOUR INTRO TO BOBA? My parents owned boba shops when I was young. My dad went into the wholesale business; now he’s a wholesaler for boba products. WHEN DID THE KITS START? When COVID-19 hit, all the boba shops closed, which meant my parents’ business closed as well. I needed to find a way to help them. That’s when my boyfriend (now husband) and I thought of the brand. We came up with this perfect recipe that would help people—from beginners to experts—make drinks at home. HOW HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN? We have customers buying them as gifts for their friends. We also have a lot of corporate customers buying them for virtual happy hours. It’s been interesting to see a category that didn’t really exist blow up during this pandemic. WHO DESIGNED THE PACKAGING? My husband and cofounder, Paul Kim, is a creative director, and he helped me bring the brand to life. I wanted it to be really playful and just put you in a good mood. Every kit comes with a step-bystep manual. WHERE IS THE KIT SOLD? Sammee is going to be in Nordstrom this season. Our classic milk tea powder and yogurt smoothie powder kits—two of my favorite flavors—will be in select stores.

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The D4 Irish Coffee Kit, by Mission Viejo’s D U B L I N 4 G A S T R O P U B , is a chance for guests to re-create the Coyle family’s popular drink at home. It contains a bottle of Roe & Co Irish whiskey, which has caramel notes and pairs well with the house-made molasses sugar. Locally sourced ground coffee, treats made in-house, and D4 engraved glasses are also included. $120 (serves two). Available for pickup at Dublin 4 Gastropub and WineWorks for Everyone.

62 ORA NGE C O AST • December 2021

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CHEF-OWNED HOT SAUCES Local concoctions turn up the heat on creativity. by Benjamin Epstein

The name of the initial bottling from SPICE GIRL SAUCES isn’t that exciting— Original Hot Sauce—but what’s inside sure is. The girl in question is “Chopped” champion and Adya chefowner Shachi Mehra. Her Food Network winnings funded the new line, and that’s her picture on the label. The spices—chile de árbol, malagueta and serrano peppers, black pepper, cumin, and garlic—are among those she uses often at her winning Indian street-food restaurants in Anaheim and Irvine. 6 ounces, $10. SPICEGIRLSAUCES.COM

64 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

Chef-owner Andrew Gruel’s new SL APFISH line, named for his contemporary seafood shack, launched with three sauces: the zingy red Blend No. 01, based on Trinidad scorpion peppers; the zesty, fruity, orange-hued No. 02 with pineapple and habaneros (try it on pizza!); and milder green No. 03, or Cali Verde, made from lime and jalapenos. Gruel’s Huntington Beach-based restaurant has grown to 24 locations, including six in Orange County and one in London. 5 ounces, $8.

Michelin-starred salsas? Carlos Salgado’s trio of RESERVA salsas negras, available at his much-lauded Taco María in Costa Mesa, would certainly qualify. The mild Chile Ancho gets its hint of sweetness from garlic. The spicy Chile de Árbol figures at the Alta California eatery almost as often as the bluemaize tortillas. The nuanced flavors of the Chile Morita & Peanuts linger … and the memory lingers longer. They’re pricey but worth every penny. 6.4 ounces, $20.

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The habanero-driven SALSA FUERTE by Craig Strong is almost eponymously named—fuerte is Spanish for “strong.” New executive chef at the Hotel Laguna, Strong previously helmed nearby Studio at Montage Laguna Beach and his own high-end Ocean at Main. The tagline builds on the wordplay—“strong flavor, strong personality”—and the logo depicts a chile pepper flexing its muscles. The sauce is medium spicy and created with versatility in mind. 5 ounces, $7. SALSAFUERTE.NET

PHOTOGRAPH BY JESSICA BODAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Holiday Tidings and Hug Misgivings How much personal space is preferred during a pandemic? by Barbara Neal Varma

he latest surge in social hugging has me spooked. Just the other day, I was at a birthday party, minding my own business, when I got hugged. It happened so fast, I had no time to raise a sanitized hand to object, only hold my breath and pray no germy aerosols had snuck in.

66 ORA NGE CO AST • December 2021

“So good to see you in person!” the woman said. I recognized her as one of the birthday girl’s friends I’d previously only met on Zoom. Or was it Facebook? “You, too,” I agreed, with slightly less enthusiasm. Now every sneeze and sniffle for the next few days would be suspect. Ugh. Thankfully we were standing outdoors at a park in Laguna Beach, a gentle sea breeze doing its part to help clear the air. But being outside and at an event with food meant most of us were maskless. With Orange County’s COVID-19 cases on the decline, it was easy to shed our inhibitions and enjoy the sun on our faces again; pass the birthday cake, please. Still, the party PDA was making me nervous. Yes, the county’s numbers were down; and for that, I was grateful. But it seemed to me that anyone who lives in an area that hosts as many crowd-pleasing theme parks as O.C. has to stay vigilant. The dreaded virus was still out there, and to quote nearly every scary movie ever made, “It’s mutating.” I found it disconcerting to see social hugging on the rise again, despite—or perhaps because of—our abstaining from such potentially risky business for so long. I’ll say one thing about the pandemic—it made respect for personal space a priority. No more awkward squeeze plays with people you just met or barely know. No more trying to keep your privates angled away during an embrace from a relative stranger—or strange relative, for that matter. I’ve long believed close, intimate illustration by P E T E R YA N

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MY O.C. contact should be reserved for those, well, closest to you. But peer pressure doesn’t fade after high school. I always smiled and went along when on the receiving end of a quickie hug because I didn’t want to be thought of as the group grinch. When the pandemic began, my status went from anti-social to socially responsible. Suddenly it was de rigueur to give those you didn’t know a wide berth; and oh, what an ironic relief it was. Those early days, when stores were still shuttered, I’d get my exercise in by walking laps around the Irvine Spectrum, blissfully empty while the piped-in music played on.

I HAD HOPED THE EXTRA elbowroom would last a little longer, but if the recent birthday party was any indication, perhaps not. But I wasn’t ready to engage in normal hugging operations again, and not

just for the reasons already stated. Truth: I was afraid. Several of those we knew (or knew of ) were hospitalized with the virus. Two died. My husband, Michael, and I both had previous health adventures that rattled our immune systems. We got the vaccine as soon as it was available, adding a Randy’s Donuts run on the way home (spoonful of sugar and all that). Still, I remained wary of an invisible enemy. Winter was coming, and with it, the annual hugging holidays. I needed a plan. Hello, internet. Turns out I’m not the only one wanting to continue to keep my hands to myself. So many readers had expressed concern regarding getting close that the 20th edition of the famed Emily Post etiquette guide, due out next year, has an added section on handshake and hugging protocols during a pandemic. (Spoiler alert: Physical contact is not advised, at least when meeting someone new.)

O.C. Scene PACIFIC SYMPHONY’S OPENING NIGHT CELEBRATION Pacific Symphony’s 43rd season began with an Opening Night Celebration featuring a grand reception, dinner and entertainment surrounding the first concert of the 2021-22 Hal and Jeanette Segerstrom Family Foundation Classical Series: “Emanuel Ax Plays Mozart.” Hosted by the Symphony’s board of directors and chaired by Judy Whitmore, the sold-out event raised $300,000 (net) to benefit the Symphony’s artistic programming and education and community engagement programs. The Symphony’s opening night honored the Hal and Jeanette Segerstrom Family Foundation and family members, Sally Segerstrom, Sandy Segerstrom Daniels, Susie and Steve Perry, and Rae and Ted Segerstrom. Photo Credit: Doug Gifford

68 ORA NGE CO A ST • December 2021

When interviewed, great-great granddaughter Lizzie Post said the best strategy for the hug-wary is to politely decline (“You know, I’m just not ready for such close contact yet”) while expressing enthusiasm for the encounter (“But I’m glad to see you!”). An article in the BBC News described how to make hugging safer. Since there are benefits to the activity, such as lowering stress and blood pressure, why not make it as safe and sane as possible? Nice to know I was already doing some of their suggested safety tips: avoid face-to-face contact, keep it quick, and my forte: Be selective. Decide who is going to be on your dance card. Family members? Those you share a household with? What’s important is that you keep it within your comfort zone. Theirs, too. Recently, a friend told me that she ran into someone she knew through work after many months of staying at

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L AST WEEK, MY HUSBAND AND I were back at The Spectrum for dinner. I’d chosen Javier’s because of its expansive patio area—not just a tent set in a parking lot but a true outdoor veranda complete with cushioned chairs and an awning sturdy enough to shield diners from any inclement weather. All was groovy until we got seated at a small table tucked between two larger groups. Any safety cushion between us and the group on our left was taken up by a toddler in her highchair. True, there weren’t any looming hugs to worry about, but the very nearness of people I didn’t know was making me uncomfortable. I was torn between wanting to play it safe and not hurting anyone’s feelings. I mean, the folks on either side looked friendly enough, and the little one was cute. I decided to be a grown-up and stay put. High time to get back in the social game and enjoy dinner out with my husband. Michael leaned forward and held my gaze. “Would you like me to ask for a different table?” “Yes, please.” I’ve no idea what he told our server, but she led us over to an empty corner booth that could easily seat six. We settled in, an island of two in a sea of empty place settings. I gave him a big hug, sans mask. It was date night, after all. The other day, a pop-up ad appeared on my computer screen, no doubt triggered by some algorithm spotting my recent online activity. The pictured T-shirt sported the message: “Fully vaccinated. Still not a hugger.” I’ll take a size medium, please. Color: grinch green.

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

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of the most important decisions in your life will be buying a house and who you choose to help you make that purchase is just as important. The right real estate agent can make all the difference whether buying or selling a home. Orange Coast has commissioned Professional Research Services (PRS) to conduct a survey of all Orange County brokers and agents to determine the top agents in the area. Real estate agents who were chosen as “All-Stars” had an annual

sales volume in the top 1% of all agents in the county, and we are proud to share them with our readers. Inclusion in the Orange Coast Real Estate All-Stars is based solely upon merit; there is not commercial relationship to the listings and listings cannot be purchased. The right real estate agent can offer you guidance on home values, neighborhoods, and other key factors that may affect your decision. These Real Estate All-Stars know their communities they serve better than anyone, and can help you ﬁnd the home of your dreams. December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 71

MICHELLE Q. LINOVITZ 2021 SALES

2136 EAST BALBOA BOULEVARD | $22,300,000

Newport Beach | Represented Buyer & Seller

365 22ND STREET | UNDISCLOSED

414 EL MODENA AVENUE | $3,200,000

509 POPPY AVENUE | $3,195,000

Costa Mesa | Represented Buyer

Newport Beach | Represented Buyer

Corona del Mar | Represented Buyer

532 FULLERTON AVENUE | $2,525,000

416 ORCHID AVENUE | $2,475,000

22 MENTON | $1,999,500

Newport Beach | Represented Buyer

Corona del Mar | Represented Buyer

Newport Coast | Represented Buyer

2620 RIVERSIDE DRIVE | $1,653,000

375 CATALINA SHORE DRIVE | $1,595,000

2113 FEDERAL AVENUE | $1,200,000

Costa Mesa | Represented Buyer

Costa Mesa | Represented Seller

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS ALISO VIEJO

Candice-Lee Silver DRE# 02034243 Pacific Platinum Properties Dave Castle DRE# 01836161 Pacific Platinum Properties ANAHEIM HILLS

Joseph DeLong DRE# 01921973 First Team Real Estate

Larry Sangiorgio DRE# 01419541 First Team Real Estate

Candi Guthrie DRE# 01257310 Coldwell Banker Realty

Coleen Brennan DRE# 01003247 Engel & Völkers

Madeleine Semaan DRE# 01171481 First Team Real Estate

Casey Kirkland DRE# 02080950 Coldwell Banker Realty

Shelley Black DRE# 01435818 Residential Agent, Inc.

Steve Mino DRE# 01856243 Coldwell Banker Realty

Shawn Halan DRE# 01916884 Residential Agent, Inc.

Trish Ragland DRE# 01195232 Coldwell Banker Realty

John McMonigle DRE# 01123869 Residential Agent, Inc.

Chris Walker DRE# 01425531 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ivan Moad DRE# 02054588 Residential Agent, Inc.

CORONA DEL MAR

Mike Taylor DRE# 01224870 Residential Agent, Inc.

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Michael Chang DRE# 01913277 Keller Williams Realty Brea CAPISTRANO BEACH

Paula Aragone

First Team Real Estate -----------108 Pacifica Irvine, CA 92618 714.366.6117 DRE# 01364746 paula@ PaulaAragone.com PaulaAragone.com

Kathy Leimkuhler DRE# 01831094 First Team Real Estate

Mike Bojorquez DRE# 01273181 Coldwell Banker Realty

Kathy McCarthy DRE# 01388737 First Team Real Estate

Michael Boyd DRE# 01191278 Coldwell Banker Realty

Arlene Dutchik DRE# 01897703 Coldwell Banker Realty

Jon Perez DRE# 01405984 First Team Real Estate

Sharon Bryant DRE# 00752682 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ingrid Echternach DRE# 02002320 Coldwell Banker Realty

Bruce Miller DRE# 01079959 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Jim Salem DRE# 01087900 First Team Real Estate

Katrina Crane DRE# 01942549 Coldwell Banker Realty

Steven Faskowitz DRE# 01968450 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ramzi Ataya DRE# 01265136 Engel & Völkers

Carly Zamani DRE# 02030224 Residential Agent, Inc. Herve Duboscq DRE# 01876794 The Agency

kathe

van hoften T h e R E A LT O R ® w i t h a H e a r t

Tagged as "The REALTOR® with a Heart," Kathe van Hoften has been providing exceptional service for her Orange County buyers and sellers since 2003. Kathe is well known as a staunch supporter of her community and as a REALTOR® who truly goes above and beyond for her clients. Her degree in Psychology and Marketing coupled with her savvy negotiating skills are what set her apart. "It's how I get the most money for my client's home, or the most home for my client's money" Kathe shared.

#1 REALTOR® at First Team Mission Viejo/Aliso Viejo* #1 REALTOR® on Yelp.com Helping clients buy / sell homes for 18+ years Serving: Aliso Viejo, Coto, Dana Point, Dove Canyon, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Nellie Gail, Newport Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Rancho Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano

KATHE VAN HOFTEN 949.235.3011

KatheVH@hotmail.com www.KatheHomes.com Lic# 01389647

An Affiliate of LUXURY PORTFOLIO INTERNATIONAL® *This representation is based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service/Association of REALTORS®, as of 10/29/21. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. © First Team® Real Estate. All rights reserved. This is not intended to solicit a listed property. If your property is currently listed for sale with a broker, please disregard.

MANNY STELLINO Orange Coast Magazine’s 2021 Real Estate All Stars

aspects of real estate. Manny

Coastal Orange County’s most

Stellino enjoys an honorable

established real state agents,

reputation among his fellow

with

career

realtors and maintains a client

spanning over 35 years of

base of many repeats and

successful transactions in the

referrals. Speciﬁcally, Stellino

competitive residential markets

is renowned for his leadership

of Newport Beach, Corona Del

in the Newport Heights and

Mar, Laguna Beach, and Costa

Cliﬀ Haven communities, where

Mesa. Manny has a proven

he is the market’s foremost

track record and success rate

expert, having sold more than

throughout all Orange County.

150 homes and represented

Manny

Stellino

impressive

one

He seeks to ensure that his clients achieve a most

hundreds of buyers and sellers within these desirable

positive experience and he provides advice on all

enclaves.

MANNY STELLINO 949 874 1580 | MSTELLINO@VILLAREALESTATE.COM STELLINOREALESTATE.COM | DRE No. 00912924

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS COSTA MESA

Cheryl Coleman DRE# 01428040 Keller Williams Realty Legacy DANA POINT

Tracy Drivas DRE# 02023935 Compass

Heather Tuck DRE# 02039209 Compass Liana Norman DRE# 01054256 First Team Real Estate Sari Ward DRE# 01774861 First Team Real Estate Briant Patterson DRE# 01351340 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Maurizio Bertoldi

First Team Real Estate -----------4 Corporate Plaza, Ste. 100, Newport Beach 714.206.2109 DRE# 01328821 Maurizio.bertoldi@ gmail.com MaurizioBertoldi.com

Asemo Smiley DRE# 00612360 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Mark Sweeney DRE# 00987093 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Bryan Whittam DRE# 01720340 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

John Sturdevant DRE# 01193545 Regency Real Estate Brokers Inc.

Sylvia Harsin DRE# 01117662 Coldwell Banker Realty Shelly Hilliard DRE# 01968101 Coldwell Banker Realty

Marcie Friedman DRE# 01887068 Surterre Properties, Inc. Carol Neyer DRE# 01509617 Surterre Properties, Inc. Mark Nix DRE# 01181383 Surterre Properties, Inc. Brad Trager DRE# 01439675 Surterre Properties, Inc. FOUNTAIN VALLEY

James Melton DRE# 01222353 Victory Mortgage & Real Estate

Kent Brostroem

SoCalHomez.com First Team Real Estate -----------949.518.7219 DRE# 02049379 Kent@SoCalHomez.com SoCalHomez.com Adam Brett Freilich DRE# 01499486 Reliance Real Estate Services HUNTINGTON BEACH

FULLERTON

Rhonda Baskins DRE# 01182791 Coldwell Banker Realty

Thomas Santoro DRE# 00794403 Crane Real Estate

Craig Cornwell DRE# 01376849 Coldwell Banker Realty

Keith Jorgensen DRE# 01296113 Coldwell Banker Realty Lorie Kapaun DRE# 01897430 Coldwell Banker Realty Aris Mastorakis DRE# 01373388 Coldwell Banker Realty Terry McCarty DRE# 01239625 Coldwell Banker Realty Marina Parker DRE# 01949288 Coldwell Banker Realty Jeb Smith DRE# 01407449 Coldwell Banker Realty

THOMAS C. SANTORO, CFP® Thomas C. Santoro, Broker, CFP® and Nathan Allen, Broker Crane Real Estate

Since 1977, Crane Real Estate has provided its clients with the absolute highest quality representation available. Tom Santoro has been at the helm since 1981. Nate Allen also brings his expertise, experience, ethics, education and enthusiasm for a true team approach. Dedication to serving clients and assisting them in achieving their short-medium- and long-term goals are their trademarks. Here’s what some of their clients said: “Thank you for an extraordinary performance in selling our home. You are a true professional.” M.Z. “Thank you for all the hard work, time and effort you put into helping us purchase our first home.” A.L.C. and R.C. “We have definitely achieved our investment goals, thanks to you. Thank you so much for making our retirement years the best times of our life.” R.C.B. and L.B. 1965 E. Chapman Avenue Fullerton, CA 92831 714.457.3436 Tom@CraneRealEstate.com CraneRealEstate.com DRE# 00794403 76 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

PAULA ARAGONE Aragone & Associates

“Our mission is to assist our clients with their real estate needs by providing them a higher level of excellence in representation along with innovative strategies that will create enhanced results and maximize value.” Paula Aragone - CEO Aragone & Associates

Paula brings almost two decades of real estate experience to every transaction, where she specializes in coastal communities from San Clemente to Huntington Beach and inland to Yorba Linda. Paula’s unparalleled expertise in renovating and remodeling properties, along with her proven marketing strategies have made her an elite member of First Team Real Estate.

Paula Aragone has received numerous industry awards and is ranked in the top 1% of agents nationwide. Her incredible track record has resulted in over 700 successfully closed transactions and over 500 Million in total sales volume. Paula attended 4 years of Law School in her native country, which has been proven to be an edge in Real Estate contracts and effective negotiation technique. She believes in ensuring the highest standards of ethic and practice are maintained at all times. Paula’s extensive experience with complex transactions, her strong law background and unique skill set is especially appreciated by high - net - worth clients with equally high expectations and standards.

• Certified Luxury Specialists • Certified Probate & Trust Specialists • Certified Relocation Specialists • Member of the National Association of Realtors • Member of the California Association of Realtors.

108 Pacifica, Irvine, CA 92618l 714.366.6117 PaulaAragone.com DRE# 01364746 December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 77

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Jeb Smith DRE# 01407449 Coldwell Banker Realty

Erika Alvarez DRE# 01258406 RE/MAX Select One

Hiram Aviles DRE# 00916447 Coldwell Banker Realty

Brett Wyland DRE# 01083782 Coldwell Banker Realty

Kelly Burke DRE# 02002252 First Team Real Estate

Jeff Russell DRE# 01275750 Russell Realty Group eXp Realty

Enrique Blanchet DRE# 01273771 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ellie Yung DRE# 02035951 Coldwell Banker Realty

Lina Celella DRE# 01959558 First Team Real Estate Marc Coppock DRE# 01963323 First Team Real Estate Danny Murphy DRE# 01867197 First Team Real Estate

Cheryl Coleman

Keller Williams Realty -----------Serving Orange County, Los Angeles and the local mountains 714.717.1728 DRE# 01428040 TheCherylColemanTeam. com

Pam Etem DRE# 00138387 The OC Real Estate

IRVINE Doris Lipscomb DRE# 00789985 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Jeremiah Secrest DRE# 01784726 First Team Real Estate

Lance Barker DRE# 01290308 RE/MAX Select One

Wyn Dee Swartz DRE# 01214109 First Team Real Estate

Lisa Karos DRE# 01313104 RE/MAX Select One

Julie Tran DRE# 01947778 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Randolph Aguilar DRE# 01244981 RE/MAX Select One

Suzie Malerbe DRE# 01467209 RE/MAX Select One

Shelley Armstrong DRE# 01158724 Coldwell Banker Realty

Hillary Conlin DRE# 01947332 Coldwell Banker Realty

Jason Zuccaro DRE# 01279644 Coldwell Banker Realty

Beth Detrick DRE# 01378807 Coldwell Banker Realty Kathryn Fleming DRE# 01473021 Coldwell Banker Realty Debbie Sagorin DRE# 01411020 Coldwell Banker Realty Amitabh Sharma DRE# 01510130 Coldwell Banker Realty Kai Tian DRE# 01915677 Coldwell Banker Realty

Candice Silver Paciﬁc Platinum Properties ------------

949.910.2518 DRE# 02034243 candice@ silver-realestate.com silver-realestate.com

JOHN YASKO The Smith Group Coldwell Banker Realty 2021 Real Estate All-Star

John Yasko (and his Goldendoodle Brie, like the cheese!) have been Top Producing Sales Partners with The Smith Group since 2010. A resident of Orange County since 1977, and a senior member of The Smith Group at Coldwell Banker Realty in Newport Beach, the expertise that John brings to every transaction has resulted in noteworthy achievements in sales volume, earning him the distinct individual honor of being named an Orange Coast Magazine Real Estate All-Star in 2020 and 2021, as well as helping The Smith Group reach prestigious team designations such as the #1 Team in California for Coldwell Banker and the #9 Team in the Nation per Real Trends The Thousand and the Wall Street Journal. John earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business with an emphasis in Real Estate Investments.

JOHN YASKO & TIM SMITH CalRE# 01875420

949.207.8063 | john@timsmithgroup.com | smithgrouprealestate.com Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. (26002920) 78 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

VERONICA HICKS Orange County’s Top Expert in Urban Luxury Living Veronica Hicks is a real estate expert renowned for her

/ client focused and results driven. Her most formidable years

expertise in urban living, and Orange County’s highly

were driven by the near 20 years in her finance career at

competitive luxury highrise market. Veronica has lived in

General Electric and then at The Coca-Cola Company where

luxury urban high-rise homes most of her adult life. As a

she was handpicked for several high-profile Marketing and

Knoxville, TN native and a real McCoy, Veronica relocated

Sales roles working for C-Suite managers. Veronica’s diverse

to the OC in 1997 and never looked back. She understands

experience with diverse cultures has given her a unique

the variety of cultures, the appeal of urban luxury living and

edge to both create her market niche and excel in it. With

excels at marketing the envied lifestyle of combining Orange

an impressive foundation, Veronica left her corporate career

County’s unique features with urban lock and go living.

to spend another 17 years as a top-producing real estate

Veronica has more than $200 Mil in career sales (over $30 Mil in just the last year) focusing on these unique properties.

professional. Veronica is trusted and respected by both her clients and agents, regionally and internationally.

Her endless energy, passion about her work and making

For fun, Veronica enjoys spending time walking her

herself available 24/7 to clients and agents are the reasons

Pomeranian named Mr. Big, shopping and searching for

why more than 80% of her business transactions have come

furniture and accessories at great values to style her clients

from existing clients and their referrals, building managers

homes. Whether it’s pricing a property or staging to sell,

and community residents.

Veronica knows how to price, merchandise, market and sell

Veronica’s long and storied career has always been customer

not only the home itself but also the urban living lifestyle.

VERONICA HICKS, TIM CARR GROUP 949 861 8181 | VHICKS@VILLAREALESTATE.COM DRE No. 01443184

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Max Carr DRE# 01898611 First Team Real Estate Sam Chinarian DRE# 00924001 First Team Real Estate

Ingrid Echternach

Coldwell Banker Realty -----------27111 Camino De Estrella, Capistrano Beach 949.636.4973 DRE# 02002320 IngridEchternach@ gmail.com IngridEchternach.com Gabe Cole DRE# 01327442 eXp Realty Lisa Anderson DRE# 01349805 First Team Real Estate Heather Bobbitt DRE# 01352069 First Team Real Estate

Jimmy Kim DRE# 01772862 First Team Real Estate Janice Konkol DRE# 00815860 First Team Real Estate Joan League DRE# 02007314 First Team Real Estate Gaylene Rice DRE# 00716475 First Team Real Estate Wendy Chen DRE# 01989395 International Home Realty Claudia Chyang DRE# 01936876 International Home Realty

Dan Jin DRE# 02063507 International Home Realty Jason Risley DRE# 01755580 Maxim Real Estate Group Inc. Maryam Amiri DRE# 01804754 Redfin Corporation

Michelle Fullbright DRE# 01436467 Redfin Corporation

Troy Hooper DRE# 01417893 Redfin Corporation

Stuart Gavan DRE# 01924327 Redfin Corporation

Ginger Huetsch DRE# 01901143 Redfin Corporation

Dave George DRE# 01316078 Redfin Corporation

Susan Karcher DRE# 01754240 Redfin Corporation

April Armendariz DRE# 01019917 Redfin Corporation Christopher Bistolas DRE# 01838313 Redfin Corporation Kim Burnside DRE# 01314559 Redfin Corporation Joseph Chow DRE# 02006416 Redfin Corporation Lucas Davis DRE# 01936255 Redfin Corporation

John Jones DRE# 01978786 Redfin Corporation

Mary Ann Lawson DRE# 01972514 Redfin Corporation

Marcie Friedman

Broker Associate -----------34183 Pacific Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point 949. 606.6610 DRE# 01887068 mfriedman@ surterreproperties.com marciefriedman.realtor

Katherine McCandless DRE# 01885996 Redfin Corporation Vickie Melin DRE# 01379193 Redfin Corporation Brian Morales DRE# 01441520 Redfin Corporation

Experience the Diﬀerence…..

My proven n skill set, local expertise and con xpertise and con ntagious enthusiasm in synergy iasm in synergy with with my fir with with my fir rm’s market My proven n skill set, local e ntagious enthus rm’s market dominance e, will always pro ovide the most p professional & efficient service i n the industry. T Through the fficient service in the industry. T dominance e, will always pro ovide the most p professional & e Through the My proven skill set, local expertise and contagious enthusiasm in synergy with my firm’s market most advan nced training in the nation, I ste the nation, I ste eadily deliver pro oficiency in valuing, marketing a ing, marketing a and executing most advan nced training in eadily deliver pro oficiency in valu and executing dominance, will always provide the most professional & efficient service in the industry. Through the sale an nd the purchase of any property of any property. Through a wor . Through a wor rld‐class set of se ervices, systems and market‐ the sale an nd the purchase rld‐class set of se ervices, systems and market‐ the most advanced training in the nation, I steadily deliver proficiency in valuing, marketing leading exp pertise, my goal is insuring that you receive the highest value fo highest value fo or your home, in n the shortest is insuring that you receive the leading exp pertise, my goal or your home, in n the shortest and executing the sale and the purchase of any property. Through a world-class set of services, amount of time and in a ha time and in a ha assle‐free manner at all times. er at all times. amount of assle‐free mann systems and market-leading expertise, my goal is ensuring that you receive the highest value for your home, in the shortest amount of time and in a hassle-free manner at all times



• • • • • •  •  •  •  •  •

Lic censed since 200 01 – DRE# 01328 8821 Lic censed since 200 01 – DRE# 01328 8821 Licensed since 2001 – DRE# 01328821 CL LHMS® ‐ Certifie d Luxury Home Marketing Specialist® ialist® CLLHMS® ‐ Certified Luxury Home Marketing Spec CLHMS® Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist® RE ENE ‐ Real Estate e Negotiation Ex xpert REENE ‐ Real Estatee Negotiation Exxpert RENE - Real Estatesentative Specia Negotiation Expert SR RS ‐ Seller Repre sentative Specia alist SR RS ‐ Seller Repre alist SRS Seller Representative Specialist GR RI ‐ Graduate Re eal Estate Institu te GR RI ‐ Graduate Re eal Estate Institu te GRI - Graduate Real Estate Institute RM MS ‐ Certified Re e‐Marketing Spe ecialist RM MS ‐ Certified Re e‐Marketing Spe ecialist RMS - Certified Re-Marketing PS SA ‐ Price Strateg gy Advisor Specialist PS SA ‐ Price Strateg gy Advisor PSA Price Strategy Advisor SF FR®‐ Short Sales & Foreclosure S Source & Foreclosure S SF FR®‐ Short Sales Source SFR®Short Sales & Foreclosure Source RE Internet Mar onal PRO ‐ Certified R keting Professio e‐e‐PRO ‐ Certified R RE Internet Mar onal keting Professio e-PRO - Certified REal Estate Special Internet Marketing Professional SR RES® ‐ Senior Rea list SR RES® ‐ Senior Reaal Estate Speciallist SRES® - Senior Real Estate Specialist La anguages ‐ Italian, German, Span n, German, Span nish and French La anguages ‐ Italia nish and French Languages - Italian, German, Spanish and French

MAURIZIO MAUR RIZIOBERTOLDI BERTOLDI DI MAUR RIZIO BERTOL 714.206.2109 06.2109 714.206.2109 714.2 www.MaurizioBertoldi.com www.M MaurizioBertoldi.com ldi.com www.M MaurizioBerto Maurizio.Bertoldi@gmail.com Mauriz zio.bertoldi@g gmail.com Mauriz zio.bertoldi@g gmail.com

Corporate Plaz za ‐ Suite 100 Corporate Plaz za ‐ Suite 100 44 4 Corporate Plaza - Suite 100 Newport Beac ch, CA 92660 Newport Beac ch, CA 92660 Newport Beach, CA 92660

MLSdata dataisisdeemed deemedreliable reliablebut butisisnot notguaranteed guaranteedaccurate accuratebyybyythe theMLS. MLS.©©First FirstTeam® Team®Real RealEstate. Estate.AllAllrights rightsrese rese erved.This Thisisisnot notintended intendedtotosolicit solicita alisted listedproperty property yourproperty propertyisiscurre currently ntlylisted listedforforsale salewith witha abroker, b pleasedisregard. disregard. MLS erved. y.y.IfIfyour b broker, please

STIEFEL | MCINTOSH NOTABLE SALES

336 SNUG HARBOR ROAD

Newport Beach | Represented Buyer

439 VIA LIDO SOUD

2307 LAUREL PLACE

2681 BAYSHORE DRIVE

Newport Beach | Represented Seller

Newport Beach | Represented Buyer

O V E R $ 2 5 0 M I L L I O N S O L D I N C O A S TA L O R A N G E C O U N T Y Orange

Anne and Krista both have extensive

County residential real estate, Anne

backgrounds centered around real

Stiefel and Krista McIntosh apply

estate development, design, and

their deep understanding of the

estate planning. This knowledge

community to your unique situation,

helps give a broad perspective on

ensuring a prosperous home buying

the various possibilities that are

or selling experience.

open to buyers and sellers they help

Specializing

coastal

Anne and Krista are both Newport

represent.

Beach natives and have a deep

McIntosh serves as the President of

understanding and sense of pride for

the Newport Beach Association of

their community. Combined they oﬀer

Realtors and earned the prestigious

their clients over 30 years of real estate

Realtor of the Year award in 2015.

experience and a lifetime of knowledge. Having represented more than $250 million in sales, Stiefel & McIntosh are leaders in the new generation of coastal Orange County’s luxury real estate professionals. With a particular focus on the exclusive communities of Newport Beach, Corona del Mar and Costa Mesa, Stiefel & McIntosh are highly regarded as trusted professionals

With their diverse background in the residential real estate industry, coupled with their focus and attention to detail, strong work ethic, and determination, Stiefel & McIntosh set the bar high for their clients at Villa Real Estate. They are committed to the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of their business.

within the community and among their industry colleagues. ANNE STIEFEL

KRISTA MCINTOSH

949 244 7686 | ASTIEFEL@VILLAREALESTATE.COM DRE No. 01360537

949 296 5094 | KMCINTOSH@VILLAREALESTATE.COM DRE No. 01839681

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS LAGUNA NIGUEL

Shanin Ostrander DRE# 01233780 Redfin Corporation

Phil Shinners DRE# 02039058 Redfin Corporation

Debbie Marie DRE# 01837350 WaveCrest Real Estate

Quan Pham DRE# 01966064 Redfin Corporation

William Soto DRE# 01328793 Redfin Corporation

LADERA BEACH

Joe Piscopo DRE# 01313512 Redfin Corporation

Erica Tang 唐欣 DRE# 02063872 Redfin Corporation

Steve Polito DRE# 01922272 Redfin Corporation

Linda Tessitore DRE# 01507668 Redfin Corporation

Michael Douglas DRE# 01350443 Coldwell Banker Realty

Marc Raine DRE# 01304884 Redfin Corporation

Misty Tracy DRE# 01302056 Redfin Corporation

Linda Fong DRE# 01896981 Coldwell Banker Realty

Libbie Rector DRE# 01087763 Redfin Corporation

Jane Yoo-Pappas DRE# 01952391 Redfin Corporation

Nikki Sartipi DRE# 02041361 Redfin Corporation

Courtney Zapcic DRE# 01908049 Redfin Corporation

Min Seo DRE# 01915127 Redfin Corporation

Kyle Zapcic DRE# 01961259 Redfin Corporation

CaLee McManus DRE# 01755978 Monarch Real Estate

Jonathan Hallstead HMG Home Loans -----------84 Discovery, Irvine 949.296.2205 NMLS# 229557 Jonathan.hallstead@ cardinalfinancial.com hmghomeloans.com

Mark Paulson DRE# 01245085 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Cesi Pagano DRE# 01043716 Cesi Pagano & Associates

Alona Tetter DRE# 01706725 Coldwell Banker Realty Sandra Williams DRE# 01304202 Coldwell Banker Realty Gabriela Haimes DRE# 01277054 Coldwell Banker Realty Pk Jenican DRE# 00978582 Coldwell Banker Realty Brandon Menchaca DRE# 01947478 Coldwell Banker Realty

Annika Godfrey DRE# 01322358 Coldwell Banker Realty

Martucci Angiano DRE# 01145304 First Team Real Estate

Carlos Hernandez DRE# 01430223 Coldwell Banker Realty

Amy Balsz DRE# 01945597 First Team Real Estate

Rosemary Hieber DRE# 01275881 Coldwell Banker Realty

Darleen Centala DRE# 01164764 First Team Real Estate

JEREMY COLONNA PNC Bank

Jeremy Colonna with PNC Bank specializes in Jumbo loans for affluent borrowers. Whether engaging in a purchase or a refinance loan, his detailed approach to the often-complex nature of his clients’ income and assets situations has led him to a great deal of success in his area of expertise. “My team and I understand that our average borrower is far from average. When we are dealing with multiple different revenue streams, it is especially important to pay attention to the little things. By ensuring that we put the time and energy in up front, we create a better overall experience for our clients.” Having been in the industry since 1996, Jeremy’s experience and knowledge give him and his team (Peggy and Carol) the ability to get even the most difficult loans closed. For qualified borrowers, Jeremy can currently fund residential loans up to $20,000,000. 249 Discovery Suite 280, Irvine, CA 92618 562.682.5606 | jeremycolonna.com NMLS# 1244850 82 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

AJ OLSON WHITFIELD Specializing in Coastal Orange County

AJ Olson Whitfield is a leader in the new generation of coastal Orange County’s high-achieving luxury residential real estate professionals. Since launching her career in 2009, AJ has forged a reputation for incomparable client service, impressive market knowledge, a bestin-class network, and—most importantly—for achieving market-leading results for her clients. AJ’s affinity for real estate started at a young age. With an extensive family background revolving around real estate sales and development, she grew up having an immersive experience. This immersion has equipped AJ with an instinct for the profession and set her on the path to follow in her grandfather, Forest E. Olson’s, footsteps. After graduating

than $150 million in career sales, she is one of the highest

Magna Cum Laude from USC’s Marshall School of Business,

producing agents of her generation in Orange County.

she worked alongside two of the highest-selling, most respected agents in Orange County, Evan Corkett and Steve High, at Coldwell Banker Previews International.

In addition to her sales success, AJ has taken on several new construction projects of her own. Now in her fourth new home build, she has built an extensive knowledge

As a born-and-raised native of Newport Beach, AJ

of planning, construction, and design. This immersion in

is especially sought after for her extensive first-hand

all facets of the real estate business gives her a holistic

knowledge of the local real estate market within Newport,

perspective on what possibilities are open to the buyers

Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, and Eastside Costa Mesa,

and sellers she represents.

where she has completed many successful transactions. Beyond the breadth and depth of her market intelligence and network, AJ is known for her innovative strategies, astute attention to detail, and competitive drive.

AJ resides with her husband and their two daughters in Eastside Costa Mesa, where she is active in the community as a member of the Newport Harbor Yacht Club and the Big Canyon Country Club. AJ’s passion for what she does

With her own practice, backed by the award-winning

even extends to her “days off” which she spends picking

marketing, technology, and brand support at Villa Real

out finishes or sourcing products for her latest project, and

Estate in Newport Beach, AJ continues to serve as the gold

it is through this love for what she does that she enjoys

standard for service and success. Having represented more

every aspect of the real estate business.

AJ OLSON WHITFIELD 949 433 8989 | AWHITFIELD@VILLAREALESTATE.COM AJOLSONWHITFIELD.COM | DRE No. 01869034

SPON SORED C ON TEN T

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Debbie Crockett DRE# 01954622 First Team Real Estate

Doug West DRE# 01809910 First Team Real Estate

Pam Fecher DRE# 01037846 First Team Real Estate

Michelle Wilson DRE# 01870068 First Team Real Estate

Tracey Fullenkamp DRE# 01870746 First Team Real Estate

Herbie Zadeh DRE# 01144297 First Team Real Estate

Russ Caldarella DRE# 00463556 First Team Real Estate

Shaun Hurley DRE# 00870450 First Team Real Estate

Michael Ahumada DRE# 01824525 RE/MAX Select One

Marise Freitas DRE# 01707991 First Team Real Estate

Vikki Morrison DRE# 00603324 First Team Real Estate

Brenda Heaps DRE# 01267664 RE/MAX Select One

Jessica Hardin DRE# 01893897 First Team Real Estate

Frankie Rio DRE# 01910938 First Team Real Estate

Uma Perricone DRE# 01106886 RE/MAX Select One

Christopher Livingston DRE# 01891045 First Team Real Estate

Christe Roknich DRE# 01030333 First Team Real Estate

Brad Smidt DRE# 01231082 RE/MAX Select One

Phillip Mazzocco DRE# 01775256 First Team Real Estate

Trina Rufo DRE# 01874549 First Team Real Estate

Kathy Samuel DRE# 00832012 First Team Real Estate

Natalie Boyle DRE# 01329012 Verso Homes

Kate Nash DRE# 01309788 First Team Real Estate

Matt Tilley DRE# 02071033 First Team Real Estate

LAKE FOREST

Speedy Watson DRE# 00614328 First Team Real Estate

Kenneth Harter DRE# 01925098 London Maye Inc.

MISSION VIEJO

LONG BEACH

Al W. Hensling

United American Mortgage -----------3198 F Airport Loop Dr. Costa Mesa NMLS# 71287 949.275.5626 Alhensling@uamco.com uamco.com Jennifer Perekrest DRE# 01341182 First Team Real Estate

Mariann Cordova DRE# 01157910 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Kevin Hill DRE# 00866218 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Linda Huebner DRE# 00887400 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Bob Strausheim DRE# 00611168 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Rita Tayenaka DRE# 01003719 Coast to Canyon Real Estate

SoCalHomez.com is known as the team that put our client’s interests above our own, providing the HIGHEST LEVEL OF HONESTY, INTEGRITY, AND EXPERTISE and with this as foundation, we help our clients achieve their real estate goals with a fact based and data driven approach needed to be a competitive buyer or seller of real estate in today’s market.

Since 2013, Kent has lived and operated out of Orange County, Southern California. After spending two decades in the international corporate world, developing and growing businesses, perfecting business strategies, customer service and sales organizations, as well as continuously establishing blueprints for ultimate customer satisfaction, Kent switched gears to a local focus and founded SoCalHomez.com, now ultra-successful Real Estate Business in OC. • #1 Team/Individual @ First Team Aliso Viejo/Mission Viejo1 • TOP 1% @ First Team Real Estate2

• TOP 1% Team in Orange County3 • TOP 5% “Best of Zillow” in United States

KENT BROSTROEM REALTOR® | Lic# 01389647

949.518.7219

Kent@SoCalHomez.com SellSoCalHomez.com BuySoCalHomez.com LuxurySoCalHomez.com All reports are published October 2021 based on data available from 10/01/2020 - 9/30/2021 for all CRMLS. 2All reports are published October 2021 based on data available from 07/01/2020 6/30/2021 for Orange County. 3All reports are published October 2021 based on data available from 10/01/2020 - 9/30/2021 for Orange County. © Trendgraphix, Inc. © First Team® Real Estate. All rights reserved. 70197

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

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

KATHLEEN MONROE, BROKER Setting a New Standard for Legendary Client Care • Wealth of wisdom to guide you if you buy or sell • Free Staging adds value for a quicker sale at a higher price • Outstanding performance and a passion for successful results • Highly skilled negotiator who helps maximize the return on your investment • Unsurpassed level of extraordinary real estate service • Master at creative & strategic marketing & advertising • Social Media Real Estate Influencer • Go with Monroe and you will make more dough • Tremendously Resourceful/ Problem Solver

SECOND generation Real Estate Broker and inspired by her father’s success, Kathleen followed in his footsteps. From the moment you meet her, you will sense the genuine commitment this dedicated professional brings to her clients with each transaction. The time and care she takes with each client is legendary. Kathleen’s hands on approach sets her apart, and her tireless efforts ensure you get exactly what you want or more when you buy or sell. Service without compromise sets a new standard. Which you will know when you Go with Monroe.

Luxury Coastal Realty Kathleen Monroe Real Estate Services, Inc. 2901 West Coast Hwy., Suite 200 Newport Beach, CA 92663 GowithMonroe@gmail.com LuxuryCoastalRealty.com 949.702.1955 DRE# 01510329

December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 85

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Flora Fatanat DRE# 01248117 Coldwell Banker Realty Janna Mooney DRE# 01816026 Coldwell Banker Realty

Veronica Hicks

Villa Real Estate -----------450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.861.8181 DRE# 01443184 vhicks@ villarealestate.com veronicahicks.com Scott Arnott DRE# 01217842 Coldwell Banker Realty Kathy Clancy DRE# 01748698 Coldwell Banker Realty Tom Droesch DRE# 01444931 Coldwell Banker Realty

Valerie Bourg DRE# 02033982 First Team Real Estate Kent Brostroem DRE# 02049379 First Team Real Estate Lucia Honda DRE# 01902556 First Team Real Estate Janet Thompson DRE# 01406180 First Team Real Estate

Connie McKibban DRE# 00461898 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Lila Feingold DRE# 01385147 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Brett Smith DRE# 01365189 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Sean Flynn DRE# 01858451 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

NEWPORT BEACH Don Abrams DRE# 01234323 Abrams Coastal Properties Ryan Gunderson DRE# 01869795 Abrams Coastal Properties

MONARCH BEACH

Leanne Boman DRE# 01456237 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Hillary Caston DRE# 01266265 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Shelly Cofini DRE# 01080698 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Kathe van Hoften DRE# 01389647 First Team Real Estate

Sheena Burke DRE# 01729873 Coldwell Banker Realty Bob Chapman DRE# 00714528 Coldwell Banker Realty Leo Chen DRE# 01958853 Coldwell Banker Realty

David Hein DRE# 01229489 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Bita Tahmasebi DRE# 01976507 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Liz Hansche DRE# 01358416 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Shannon Aikman DRE# 01444304 Coldwell Banker Realty

Denine Kerns

The Kerns Group -----------12 Corporate Plaza Dr., Ste. 250, Newport Beach 949.689.7078 DRE# 01248229 Denine.Kerns@elliman. com DenineKerns.com

CHERYL COLEMAN Keller Williams Realty

Cheryl moved to California from the east coast in 2000 and became a California Realtor soon after. Before becoming a full time Realtor, she traveled world-wide working in sales, international negotiations and marketing, all of which has led to her success. She has a real passion for helping people, mentoring new agents and her specialized service for seniors is truly remarkable. She understands the importance of world wide exposure and that is why she made the investment to become a Global Property Specialist with the largest Real Estate Company in the world, Keller Williams Realty. The Cheryl Coleman Team provides free staging, free photography, videography and drone photography for all her listings. If you are thinking about selling your home, call Cheryl for the best marketing plan in California.

Serving all of Orange County, Los Angeles and the local mountains 714.717.1728 TheCherylColemanTeam.com DRE# 01428040

86 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

Your Guide To

Financial Freedom. Navigating the mortgage process can be tough. I’m here to help my clients every step of the way, and provide the constant communication you deserve. Being a family man, I understand the peace of mind that comes with having financial freedom, and the importance of having a place to call home.

Let’s discuss what financial freedom looks like to you and your family.

@kristinelewisphotography

Congratulations to Jonathan Hallstead for being recognized as one of Orange Coast Magazine’s 2021 Mortgage All-Stars!

JONATHAN HALLSTEAD NMLS 229557 | (949) 296‑2205 jonathan.hallstead@cardinalfinancial.com

This is not a loan commitment or guarantee of any kind. Loan approval and rate are dependent upon borrower credit, collateral, financial history, and program availability at time of origination. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Corporate Address: 3701 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Charlotte, North Carolina 28273. Cardinal Financial Company, Limited Partnership (NMLS ID 66247, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) has the following licenses: Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license, License No. 603K498; Additional licensing information can be found at: https://cardinalfinancial.com/nmls-licensing/.

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Marilyn Williams DRE# 00813847 Coldwell Banker Realty

Nancy Fitzgerald DRE# 01198556 Coldwell Banker Realty

Tim Morissette DRE# 00629590 Coldwell Banker Realty

Lisa Gambill DRE# 01235392 Coldwell Banker Realty

Lisa Ohanesian-Gambill DRE# 01235392 Coldwell Banker Realty

Dodie Gilbert DRE# 01700617 Coldwell Banker Realty

Sherri Ommi DRE# 01181985 Coldwell Banker Realty

Mary Golding DRE# 01865418 Coldwell Banker Realty

Jennifer Pritchett DRE# 00855072 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ayumi Lewis DRE# 01929147 Coldwell Banker Realty

Margaret Robinson DRE# 00793246 Coldwell Banker Realty

Sheila Marsh DRE# 01934865 Coldwell Banker Realty

Lindsey Santefort DRE# 01828885 Coldwell Banker Realty

Jeff Ewing DRE# 01027345 Coldwell Banker Realty

Kent Martin DRE# 01873148 Coldwell Banker Realty

Marcus Skenderian DRE# 01115339 Coldwell Banker Realty

Garrett Weston DRE# 01385026 Compass

Sarah Sitar DRE# 01302448 Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Georgie Fenton DRE# 00990939 Coldwell Banker Realty

Susie McCollom DRE# 01944795 Coldwell Banker Realty

Christian Walsh DRE# 01804983 Coldwell Banker Realty

Chris Kwon DRE# 01918857 Compass

Maurizio Bertoldi DRE# 01328821 First Team Real Estate

Chris Kwon

Compass -----------520 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 330, Newport Beach 949.427.1101 DRE# 01918857 chris.kwon@ compass.com chriskwonrealtor.com Katie Eastman DRE# 01964654 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ingrid Yankauskas DRE# 01492120 Coldwell Banker Realty Stephanie Young DRE# 01793999 Coldwell Banker Realty Michael Fawaz DRE# 01342829 Compass Rob Smith DRE# 01113111 Compass Vinisha Singh DRE# 02062173 Compass Pam Spruce DRE# 01242934 Compass

Pegi DiRienzo DRE# 01219774 Douglas Elliman Real Estate Breanna Lepante DRE# 01919560 Douglas Elliman Real Estate Christopher Parr DRE# 01272772 Douglas Elliman Real Estate Andy Stavros DRE# 01408840 Douglas Elliman Real Estate Brian Johnson DRE# 00787688 Douglas Elliman Real Estate

INGRID ECHTERNACH Coldwell Banker Realty

As a top agent in Orange County, Ingrid Echternach has set repeat property sales records and garnered prestigious recognition. What sets Ingrid apart is that she has achieved the highest luxury certification as a GUILD Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, has a Business Finance degree, worked in Forensic Accounting and has a multilingual international upbringing. These experiences culminate in giving Ingrid a unique understanding and insight into multi-cultural interpersonal relations and a solid understanding of the financial magnitude of clients’ real estate investments. Additionally, her strong work ethic and confident negotiating skills repeatedly put more money in her clients’ pockets. 27111 Camino De Estrella, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 949.636.4973 IngridEchternach.com DRE# 02002320 88 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

AL W. HENSLING United American Mortgage

The Hensling Team at United American Mortgage is a full service Mortgage Origination Team committed to providing innovative mortgage solutions in today’s highly competitive market. The team defines communication throughout the process as one of the most important elements in a successful loan transaction. A team of experienced professionals knowledgeable in all facets of the mortgage industry committed to returning calls promptly, providing regular status updates and available to a client as needed. We pride ourselves by listening and fully understanding the needs of a client which allows us to provide a loan program best suited for the individual specific needs. Our commitment is to provide exceptional service and innovative loan products to our clients. Loan Programs designed for Self Employed Borrowers represent a significant portion of our business as our Team understands the unique needs of these borrowers. Utilizing our streamlined online loan application our clients can move through the approval process quickly and efficiently. In the current Real Estate Market timing is critical to the success of obtaining and closing your transaction. Our Team has the experience and product availability to perform and deliver options that others can not match. As an established Leader in Residential Mortgage Lending for over 30 years and personal production of over $4B in loans you can rest assured your financing needs will be well served. Experience the power of expertise, programs and technology by contacting the Hensling Team today.

3198 F Airport Loop Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.275.5626 Alhensling@uamco.com NMLS# 71287 December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 89

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS John Gessford DRE# 01137479 First Team Real Estate Lori Robnett DRE# 01176811 First Team Real Estate Kim Schumacher DRE# 01407205 First Team Real Estate Melissa Crispi DRE# 01921862 First Team Real Estate Gay-Lynn Barnes DRE# 01433767 Keller Williams Newport Estates Cindy Chin DRE# 01921826 Keller Williams Newport Estates Michael Peters DRE# 01924480 Keller Williams Newport Estates Erich Redder DRE# 01745504 Keller Williams Newport Estates

Michelle Linovitz

Villa Real Estate -----------450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.632.1618 DRE# 01864077 mlinovitz@ villarealestate.com michelleqlinovitz.com

Emmett Russell DRE# 01732358 Keller Williams Newport Estates Jordan Wang DRE# 01993587 Keller Williams Newport Estates

Kevin Kim DRE# 01879889 Keller Williams Newport Estates

Christina Shaw DRE# 01808984 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Heather Hosto DRE# 01335400 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Kathleen Monroe DRE# 01510329 Luxury Coastal Realty

Erica Thomas DRE# 01975517 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Sommer Killian DRE# 01076343 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Jerri Davis DRE# 00952768 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Tony Bartos DRE# 01207153 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Jesse Barraza DRE# 01186803 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Joe Deperine DRE# 01758057 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Linda Chan DRE# 01908502 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Adriana Farfan DRE# 01741763 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Marilyn Christian DRE# 01919929 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Mina Maghami DRE# 01159753 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Luke Hagenbach DRE# 01309807 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Tara Shapiro DRE# 01892201 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Gordon Henry DRE# 00704984 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Carol Berg DRE# 00696738 Surterre Properties, Inc. Adrienne Brandes DRE# 01337636 Surterre Properties, Inc. Angela Caliger DRE# 01985549 Surterre Properties, Inc. Nancy Campbell DRE# 01395430 Surterre Properties, Inc. Kathy Fallon DRE# 01428911 Surterre Properties, Inc.

FARZAN PARVIZI Having personally closed nearly $50 million in residential real estate sales in the past year, First Team Real Estate agent Farzan Parvizi serves a wide variety of high-end clientele in Laguna Beach and beyond. Representing clients in some of the company’s most exclusive luxury sales, Farzan holds the record for the highest First Team sale of 2021, bringing the buyer for 31371 Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, closing sale at $14,450,000. Working in the real estate industry for nearly 30 years with 22 years of experience in the Laguna Beach luxury market, she regularly serves oceanfront homeowners and elite clients across Southern California. Utilizing First Team’s luxury partnerships with Christie’s International Real Estate and Luxury Portfolio International, Farzan ensures her clients receive every advantage possible on the market.

FARZAN PARVIZI REALTOR® |

Lic# 01125158

949.290.7999

FarzanParvizi@FirstTeam.com FarzanParvizi.com

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Roula Fawaz DRE# 01172580 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Amie Raiger DRE# 01513604 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Kevin Kanda DRE# 01023714 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Katie Rollins DRE# 01379867 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Spyro Kemble DRE# 01012126 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Liz Ryan DRE# 01323892 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Michelle Krenzke DRE# 01495317 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Soheila Shirazi DRE# 00883491 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Sara Legrand DRE# 01950213 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Jacqueline Thompson DRE# 01476106 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Stacy McKellar DRE# 01452334 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Chris Valli DRE# 00604151 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Lynn Noah DRE# 00769648 Surterre Properties, Inc.

John Yasko DRE# 01875420 The Smith Group Coldwell Banker Realty

Robert Pfeif DRE# 01292044 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Nancy Barﬁeld DRE# 01085438 Villa Real Estate

Kim Bibb DRE# 01210754 Villa Real Estate

Holly McDonald DRE# 01892567 Villa Real Estate

Danielle Bowen DRE# 01276141 Villa Real Estate Tracy Bowie DRE# 01234314 Villa Real Estate Tim Carr DRE# 01017277 Villa Real Estate Evan Corkett DRE# 00468496 Villa Real Estate Chuck Denny DRE# 01416982 Villa Real Estate

Krista McIntosh DRE# 01839681 Villa Real Estate

Lori McGuire

RE/Max Select One -----------31341 Niguel Rd., Ste. A, Laguna Nigel 949.248.8401 DRE# 00959318 info@McGuireTeam.com McGuireTeam.com

AJ Olson Whitﬁeld DRE# 01869034 Villa Real Estate Charlie Price DRE# 02007776 Villa Real Estate Keith Randle DRE# 00993898 Villa Real Estate Chris Sirianni DRE# 01754015 Villa Real Estate

Bill Dolby DRE# 01005904 Villa Real Estate

Veronica Hicks DRE# 01443184 Villa Real Estate

Jon Flagg DRE# 01316048 Villa Real Estate

Steve High DRE# 00936421 Villa Real Estate

John Stanaland DRE# 01223768 Villa Real Estate

Brian Gibney DRE# 01383231 Villa Real Estate

Michelle Linovitz DRE# 01864077 Villa Real Estate

Manny Stellino DRE# 00912924 Villa Real Estate

MARCIE FRIEDMAN Providing Service with

Honesty & Integrity

A resident of Orange County since 2003, Marcie Friedman has developed a mastery of the area’s most prestigious residential markets. “I love that owning a home in Orange County is about a lifestyle,” she says. From finding the most advantageous school systems for children to identifying the sort of social environment a client desires, Marcie is renowned for her unmatched attention to detail and her strong negotiating skills. These attributes allow her to serve her clients with finesse, assist them in finding their dream homes, and maximize the results on the sale of their property, all while being part of their journey and helping them accomplish their goals.

Contact Me for Guidance to Achieve Great Results Broker Associate, CNE, SRS, REALTOR®, GREEN

949.606.6610 · m a r c i e f r i e d m a n . r e a l t o r

mfriedman@surterreproperties.com · DRE#01887068

This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. Surterre Properties® DRE#01778230

92 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Jill Wiese DRE# 01078872 Villa Real Estate

John Ginn DRE# 01726959 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Jeff Williams DRE# 01198735 Villa Real Estate

PALM SPRINGS

Krista McIntosh

Villa Real Estate -----------450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.296.5094 DRE# 01839681 kmcintosh@ villarealestate.com stiefelmcintoshrealestate. com Anne Stiefel DRE# 01360537 Villa Real Estate Elizabeth Thamer DRE# 01169245 Villa Real Estate John Trevino DRE# 01411440 Villa Real Estate

Paula Pelton DRE# 01404811 Coldwell Banker Realty

RANCHO CUCAMONGA Lauren Lumbattis DRE# 01746402 Corcoran Global Living

SAN CLEMENTE Brandi Brotherton DRE# 01943336 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Candy Flock DRE# 00558789 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Laura Ginn DRE# 01352570 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Sharon Custer DRE# 01300834 First Team Real Estate Kelly Galvin DRE# 01947464 Galvin Real Estate, C21 Award Kelly LeClair DRE# 01938313 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Jeremy Schultheiss DRE# 02089884 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Christian Wach DRE# 01922260 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Sandra Marquez DRE# 01181253 RE/MAX Coastal Homes

Dede Barrett DRE# 01938807 First Team Real Estate

Holly McKhann DRE# 01956721 RE/MAX Coastal Homes

Dan DeForest DRE# 02003121 First Team Real Estate

SAN DIEGO Kathi Kanan DRE# 00810074 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

SEAL BEACH Maria Palencia DRE# 01387033 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Scott Gunther DRE# 01502661 Coldwell Banker Realty Robin Kelley DRE# 01407554 Coldwell Banker Realty

Andi MacCallum DRE# 00951042 First Team Real Estate Vanessa Villa DRE# 01746393 First Team Real Estate Liz Wagner DRE# 01457990 First Team Real Estate Tracey Marcyan DRE# 01884787 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin Shawn Shahbazi DRE# 01433924 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin Kevin Shuler DRE# 01953088 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin

CANDICE SILVER Pacific Platinum Properties

With more than a decade of experience as a top producing Real Estate Agent, Candice Silver continues to be a force in the competitive Orange County real estate market in her ability to secure and sell luxury homes for her devoted clientele. Coming from a large family real estate background with deep roots in the industry for over 35 years, real estate is embedded in her bones. What immediately stands out is her distinctive solution driven mindset. Her ability to pair her concierge-level service, real estate financing solutions and intimate knowledge of neighborhoods with market analytic trends and industry leading technology empowers her to make each of her clients search and sell experience seamless with maximum returns. It is this methodical approach that has made Candice one of the most highly reviewed and rated agents amongst clients and colleagues alike for her integrity, loyalty, and professionalism. 949-910-2518 candice@silver-realestate.com silver-realestate.com DRE #02034243

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Jeffrey Simons DRE# 01212169 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin

TUSTIN Maria Palencia DRE# 01387033 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Scott Gunther DRE# 01502661 Coldwell Banker Realty Robin Kelley DRE# 01407554 Coldwell Banker Realty Dede Barrett DRE# 01938807 First Team Real Estate

Vanessa Villa DRE# 01746393 First Team Real Estate

David Delaney DRE# 01769672 Coldwell Banker Realty

Cherie Eckley DRE# 01357472 First Team Real Estate

Liz Wagner DRE# 01457990 First Team Real Estate

Sherri Lopez DRE# 01793263 Coldwell Banker Realty

Ronnie Lippa DRE# 01348968 First Team Real Estate

Tracey Marcyan DRE# 01884787 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin

Steve Mortensen DRE# 01813078 Coldwell Banker Realty

Shawn Shahbazi DRE# 01433924 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin Kevin Shuler DRE# 01953088 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin Jeffrey Simons DRE# 01212169 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin

Sally Radi DRE# 01734070 Coldwell Banker Realty David Silva DRE# 01327642 Coldwell Banker Realty Michelle Tsai Aun DRE# 01830733 Coldwell Banker Realty

Dan DeForest DRE# 02003121 First Team Real Estate

YORBA LINDA

Rachel Turner DRE# 01894779 Coldwell Banker Realty

Andi MacCallum DRE# 00951042 First Team Real Estate

Frank Del Rio DRE# 01321550 Coldwell Banker Realty

Filipina Opena DRE# 01416445 Coldwell Banker Realty

Kathleen Monroe

Luxury Coastal Realty -----------2901 W. Coast Hwy., Ste. 200, Newport Beach 949.702.1955 DRE# 01510329 GowithMonroe@ gmail.com LuxuryCoastalRealty.com Amy Alvarez DRE# 01216079 First Team Real Estate Lynn Campbell DRE# 01938219 First Team Real Estate Greg Colson DRE# 01961268 First Team Real Estate

Peggy McCullough DRE# 01296354 First Team Real Estate Danelle Stroble DRE# 01918815 First Team Real Estate Denise Tash DRE# 01316399 First Team Real Estate Christine Almarines DRE# 01412944 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Lori Fenn DRE# 01901613 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Chad Langseth DRE# 00993554 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda

LORI MCGUIRE

RE/MAX Select One, The McGuire Team The McGuire Team has sold over 1.75 billion in Real Estate Lori McGuire and The McGuire Team are ranked #21 out of all RE/MAX teams in the US. They offer a full-service concierge team from pre-listing to after the close of escrow. The McGuire Team’s goal is to provide unsurpassed, personalized, care for each of their clients while attaining their greatest possible ﬁnancial outcome. The McGuire Team utilizes the most current strategies, market research, and technology to ensure their assistance goes beyond expectations. While they specialize in luxury real estate, they work with a wide breadth of price ranges and offer The McGuire Team exceptional service to each of their clients.

31341 Niguel Road, Suite A, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949. 248.8401 McGuireTeam.com DRE# 00959318 94 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

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

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Andrew Soss Franklin Loan Corporation 259002 Cory DePass Franklin Loan Corporation 388271

Farzan Parvizi

First Team Real Estate -----------900 Glenneyre St. Laguna Beach 949.290.7999 DRE# 01125158 farzanparvizi@ firstteam.com farzanparvizi.com

Nicholas Shea Franklin Loan Corporation 277951 Matthew Morrell JMJ Financial Group 1008678

Julie Paino MoellerMontez DRE# 02011124 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Randee Nelson DRE# 00862480 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Stephanie Rezac DRE# 01452455 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Karyn Sontag DRE# 01209652 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Mike Weller DRE# 01846714 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda

MORTGAGE ALISO VIEJO Colleen Kordich Bank of America NMLS ID: 453172 Glenn Henry Finance of America Mortgage LLC 221334

Kevin Rudrud LendUS 335381

LAGUNA HILLS

Thomas Testerman Finance of America Mortgage LLC 435148

Brigitte Golay PNC Bank 899374

Nicole Babyak Kent Mortgage Corporation 288406

Allycyn Bennett Sandstone Financial 230116

John Farrell loanDepot 374639

Dru Bertagni Golden 1 Credit Union 1068471

LAGUNA NIGUEL Patty Carpenter Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation 478770 Dwight Lagos Finance of America Mortgage LLC 457806

Scott Nicholson Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc. 298536

Lake Forest Jeff Welch Alliance West Mortgage 225103

Al Hensling United American Mortgage Corporation 71287

Stefanie Leal DRE# 01184099 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda Scott Minshall DRE# 01921848 Keller Williams Realty Yorba Linda

COSTA MESA

Mark Simon United American Mortgage Corporation 286568

Bryan Shigekuni

Chase Bank -----------7830 Edinger Ave., Floor 01, Huntington Beach 714.336.5248 NMLS# 1476391 bryan.shigekuni@ chase.com homeloan.chase.com/ bryan.shigekuni ANAHEIM Renee Wiginton Cornerstone Home Lending, Inc. 709310

ANAHEIM HILLS Renee Wiginton Cornerstone Home Lending, Inc. 709310

BEVERLY HILLS Gabriel Gifoli Guaranteed Rate Affinity 12138

BREA John Vanover S And S Home Loans 235016

CORONA DEL MAR Jeff Edwards Insignia Mortgage 40338

HUNTINGTON BEACH Josh Lewis BuyWise Mortgage 234220 Bryan Shigekuni Chase Bank 1476391 Rochelle Pazanti-Ruth Pazanti Home Mortgage 234745 Mike Wright United American Mortgage Corporation 234953

MISSION VIEJO

Jeremy Colonna

PNC Bank -----------249 Discovery, Ste. 280 Irvine 562.682.5606 NMLS# 1244850 Jeremy.colonna@ pnc.com jeremycolonna.com Ryan Purpero loanDepot 68409

IRVINE Larry Paul C2 Financial Corporation 829110

James Savelsberg Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC 855145

Jonathan Hallstead Cardinal Financial Company 229557

Kenny Brown Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 516347

Darren McLellan Celebrity Home Loans 297075

LADERA RANCH

Eric Vavere Celebrity Home Loans 383881 Eric Miller Finance of America Mortgage LLC 391165

Dino Katsiametis California Coastal Loans 264396 Frank Blakeley Guaranteed Rate Affinity 277820 Jon Shimazaki New American Funding 325453

Ryan Grant NEO Home Loans 118767 Jeremy Colonna PNC Bank 1244850

Dave Brown American Pacific Mortgage 20868

Jim Kalmbach Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. 298346

NEWPORT BEACH David Capek Bank of America 960083

ORANGE Mark Prather Mark 1 Wealth Academy 169135

RIVERSIDE

Ryan Cushman Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 84590

Cary Pearce Flagstar Bank 353895

LAGUNA BEACH

RIVERSIDE

Cheryl Boldig Guaranteed Rate Affinity 1021838

Cary Pearce Flagstar Bank 353895

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REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS SAN CLEMENTE Magic Gourgy Bank of America 450477

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Al Sed CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC 372386

The Williamson Team DRE# 01217754 First Team Real Estate

Presley Group DRE# 01928351 First Team Real Estate

Mackenzie & Cannon DRE# 01038710 Coldwell Banker Realty

BREA

Tim & Karen Branoff DRE# 01002474 First Team Real Estate

Haney Team DRE# 01133913 First Team Real Estate

Lily Campbell Team DRE# 01229782 First Team Real Estate

Nancy Aynehchi DRE# 01450929 First Team Real Estate

McCloskey and Co DRE# 01930596 First Team Real Estate

Rosemary Kral & Jennifer Palmquist DRE# 01208091 First Team Real Estate

Ron Arnold Team DRE# 01338671 Keller Williams Realty Brea

SANTA ANA

Team Hawley Verstraete DRE# 0609648 First Team Real Estate

Jay Carr Arbor Financial Group 694607

SEAL BEACH Christopher Fenoglio Finance of America Mortgage LLC 653010

TUSTIN Mike LaSalla loanDepot 1456923

VILLA PARK

Thomas C. Santoro, Broker, CFP®

Crane Real Estate -----------Serving all your Real Estate needs in Orange County 714.457.3436 DRE# 00794403 Tom@CraneRealEstate.com CraneRealEstate.com

Steve Nguyen Chase Bank 669900

Jackie and John Team DRE# 01274972 Keller Williams Realty Brea

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CORONA DEL MAR

Yvonne Ybarra Guaranteed Rate Affinity 674180

The Noonan Team DRE# 01371994 Compass

TEAMS

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ANAHEIM HILLS

The Noonan Team DRE# 01371994 Compass

Clay Kilbarger Group DRE# 01413602 First Team Real Estate Lars Nordstrom DRE# 01768982 First Team Real Estate Mike and Travis Real Estate Group DRE# 01109177 First Team Real Estate Soto & Company DRE# 01478858 First Team Real Estate The Abrego Team Stephanie & Tiffany DRE# 01179926 First Team Real Estate

GARDEN GROVE Team Tackney DRE# 01390210 GMT Real Estate Huntington Beach MacLeod Real Estate Group DRE# 00934704 Coldwell Banker Realty Seacliff Team DRE# 01416035 Coldwell Banker Realty The Wollner Group DRE# 01889264 Coldwell Banker Realty

96 Ora nge C oast • December 2021

Stanfield Group DRE# 01024996 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Sandi Clark & Debbie Miller DRE# 01264896 First Team Real Estate Cathy Haney Team DRE# 01133913 First Team Real Estate

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Manny Stellino

Villa Real Estate -----------450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.874.1580 DRE# 00912924 mstellino@ villarealestate.com stellinorealestate.com

The Gamboa Team DRE# 00999273 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Irene & Ricky Zhang Group DRE# 01972236 Coldwell Banker Realty

The Horton Team DRE# 01357096 Surterre Properties, Inc.

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LAGUNA NIGUEL Cheryl Newton & Linda Caddick DRE# 00576950 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Jim & Vickie Bishop DRE# 01352560 & 01982437 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

IRVINE Alice Schroeder & Peter Au DRE# 01319910 & 01935667 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Frank Hufnagel | Heidi Cleveland DRE# 01763124 Surterre Properties, Inc.

Anne Stiefel

Villa Real Estate -----------450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.244.7686 DRE# 01360537 astiefel@villarealestate.com stiefelmcintoshrealestate. com LAGUNA BEACH Ballesteros Real Estate Group DRE# 01246320 Coldwell Banker Realty Mike Johnson Group DRE# 01429647 Compass Brad Feldman Group DRE# 01437125 Douglas Elliman Real Estate Meital Taub Luxury Group DRE# 01871040 First Team Real Estate Giulietta Wilson DRE# 01180243 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

The Ora Group DRE# 01210081 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties The Godfrey Group DRE# 01322358 Compass Michelle & Rob Weiss DRE# 01483933 First Team Real Estate Arne Dewitt Team DRE# 00948218 RE/MAX Select One Lori McGuire Team DRE# 00959318 RE/MAX Select One

LONG BEACH Sue La Bounty Team DRE# 01161648 First Team Real Estate

MISSION VIEJO Ellis Holmes Team DRE# 00938001 Coldwell Banker Realty

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

Monica Carr Group DRE# 01372175 Coldwell Banker Realty

n has been and sellers community clients. Her negotiating r my client's ed.

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

Rod Daley DRE# 00456990 Coldwell Banker Realty

Kathe van Hoften

First Team / Christie’s International -----------27451 Los Altos, Ste. 100, Mission Viejo 949.235.3011 DRE# 01389647 KatheVH@hotmail.com katheHomes.com

Swardstrom Group DRE# 01907305 Coldwell Banker Realty Teri Armstrong Hardke DRE# 00517307 Coldwell Banker Realty The Ballesteros Group DRE# 01246320 Coldwell Banker Realty

Mason | Taylor Associates DRE# 01877391 Compass

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Kline | Sarna Group DRE# 01171319 Surterre Properties, Inc.

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The Andrew Karigan Team DRE# 01427661 Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Szigeti & OC Luxury The Georgina Jacobson Dove Canyon, Huntington Beach, BEACH MONARCH Group Group aguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake DRE# 01176109 DRE# 01234785 port Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, The DiPilla Real Estate Coldwell Banker Realty Douglas Elliman Real San Juan Capistrano Group Estate DRE# 01130780 The Kristin Halton Berkshire Hathaway Group The Tom Unvert Team HomeServices AnCalifornia Affiliate of LUXURY PORTFOLIO INTERNATIONAL® DRE# 01710879 DRE# 01257593 *This representation is based onProperties information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service/Association of Coldwell Banker Realty Douglas Elliman Real REALTORS®, as of 11/03/20. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. © First Team® Real Estate. All rights reserved. This is not intended to solicit a listed property. Estate If your property is currently listed for sale The with aSmith broker, please disregard. NEWPORT BEACH Group

Khosh Team DRE# 00892388 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Ronnie & Cyrena DRE# 01891826 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Bradshaw Residential Group DRE# 01304396 Coldwell Banker Realty Brian Bogs Real Estate Group DRE# 01464492 Coldwell Banker Realty Casey Lesher DRE# 01795953 Coldwell Banker Realty Jen Gong Group DRE# 01891691 Coldwell Banker Realty Marcus Gualter DRE# 01079157 Coldwell Banker Realty

DRE# 01346878 Coldwell Banker Realty The Vasu Team DRE# 01015709 Coldwell Banker Realty Piazza Residential Group DRE# 01207960 Coldwell Banker Realty The File Group DRE# 01952433 Compass The Annie Clougherty Team DRE# 01716801 Compass Brenda McCroskey Team DRE# 01869273 Compass

Private Client Group OC DRE# 01752859 Compass Sperry Residential Group DRE# 01478815 Compass

The Denine Kerns Team DRE# 01248229 Douglas Elliman Real Estate

The Blatchford Group DRE# 01312438 Surterre Properties, Inc. The Summer Perry Group DRE# 01882790 Surterre Properties, Inc. The Thomas Group DRE# 01320898 Surterre Properties, Inc.

SAN CLEMENTE Scott Kidd lAssociatesl DRE# 01011063 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

CAIN Group DRE# 01467294 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Jojo Romeo DRE# 01878195 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

The Smith Group, Coldwell Banker Realty -----------840 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.207.8063 DRE# 01875420 john@timsmithgroup. com smithgrouprealestate.com

SEAL BEACH Leitner Group DRE# 01310869 First Team Real Estate Whitney Team DRE# 01217224 First Team Real Estate

SUNSET BEACH Buscemi, Noonan & Associates Realtors DRE# 00933809 First Team Real Estate

Alex Yu Team DRE# 01492674 First Team Real Estate Bibb Team DRE# 00602463 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

John Yasko

TUSTIN

AJ Whitfield

Villa Real Estate -----------450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.433.8989 DRE# 01869034 awhitfield@ villarealestate.com ajolsonwhitfield.com

Nicolai Glazer DRE# 01857997 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Echelberger Real Estate Group DRE# 01176379 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Arrigo | Presson Group DRE# 01020536 Surterre Properties, Inc.

REED Team DRE# 01263988 RE/MAX Coastal Homes

The Every Day Luxury Group DRE# 01836707 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin

YORBA LINDA The Every Day Luxury Group DRE# 01836707 Keller Williams Realty North Tustin

December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 97

SICHUAN IMPRESSION SEE PAGE 111

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

TASTE THE W RLD IN O.C.

Those longing for international travel have had to take a break. Fortunately, Orange County is home to plenty of restaurants where you can get your world culinary fix. Until you can make your next trip abroad, we present a few travel itineraries that only require you to venture a few miles from home for the food and culture of your favorite destinations. by MILES CLEMENT S p h o t o g r a p h y b y E M I LY J . D AV I S December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 99

SOUTHEAST ASIA

ny survey of O.C.’s Southeast Asian food scene must begin in Little Saigon. Start in northern Vietnam at HA NOI CORNER in Garden Grove. Bun cha Ha Noi is a signature, a deconstructed noodle bowl of chargrilled pork and pork sausage served with a raft of fresh herbs and a tangle of rice vermicelli. Cha ca Thang Long (sizzling fish fillets scattered with fresh dill) is another favorite, as is bun rieu (a soft-shell crab noodle soup in a tomato-enriched broth). QUÁN MII represents cooking from Vietnam’s central coast. The restaurant’s Fountain Valley and Westminster locations are most famous for banh xeo, the massive turmeric-stained, coconut-scented crepe that’s loaded with bean sprouts, pork, shrimp, and squid. Bowls of mi quang (a skein of wide turmeric noodles studded with pork, shrimp, shredded banana blossom, and more) and tiny plates of banh beo (steamed rice flour 100 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

HA NOI CORNER

cakes with a variety of toppings) are equally popular. THAI NAKORN in Garden Grove and Stanton is one of the county’s most comprehensive Thai restaurants. There’s an emphasis on Isan-style Thai cooking, highlighted by dishes like a quintessential papaya salad and five varieties of larb, the minced meat salad tossed in toasted rice flour. The restaurant is a fantastic generalist, too, with excellent Thai-style grilled chicken and remarkably tender beef Panang. Stanton’s IRRAWADDY offers a rare taste of Burmese cuisine. The cooking of Myanmar is influenced in part by neighboring China, India, and Thailand, but is entirely its own. Tea leaf salad is a riot of textures, fermented tea leaves tossed with peanuts, lentils, fried garlic, sesame seeds, tomatoes, and lettuce. Mohinga, a catfish noodle soup flavored with ginger and lemongrass, is often considered Myanmar’s national dish. For Irrawaddy’s many stir-fries and curries, add a side of fragrant coconut rice.

IRRAWADDY December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 101

ISLA 102 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

MEXICO AND THE CARIBBEAN

he landscape of Mexico is rich and varied. MARISCOS MOCORITO in Orange focuses on seafood dishes from Sinaloa on the Gulf of California. Cool off with icyspicy aguachile—raw shrimp shocked in a pool of water, chiles, and lime juice—or a massive molcajete loaded with shrimp, octopus, abalone, and oyster. There are more substantial plates, but it’s hard to pass up the smoky marlin tacos swaddled in blackened tortillas and crunchy tostadas topped with ceviche for a few bites of beachy bliss. FLOR DE OAXACA in Santa Ana specializes in the treasured cuisine of this southern region. Inky mole negro—the coal-black sauce rich with toasted spices, dried fruits, and roasted chiles—is essential in Oaxaca. Here, there are enchiladas enrobed in mole negro and moist, mole-filled tamales steamed in banana leaves. Tlayudas (crisp, pizzasize tortillas topped with milky quesillo, beans, avocado, tomato, and all kinds of meats) are particularly popular, and for good reason. Tustin’s CHAAK celebrates chef Gabbi Patrick’s Yucatecan roots. Sikil p’ak is the way to start, a pumpkin seed dip spiced with a bit of roasted habanero and served with chicharrones, totopos, and cucumbers. Cochinita pibil, a citrus-lashed smoked pork shoulder, can easily be shared. From the Yucatán, Cuba’s island cuisine is a few hundred miles away. ISLA in La Palma nails all the favorites: tender ropa vieja, pressed medianoche sandwiches, creamy papas rellenas. The restaurant also borrows from elsewhere in the Caribbean. Take the Puerto Rican mofongo, a mash of green plantains, garlic, pork rinds, and olive oil that’s shaped into a neat cylinder and crowned with your choice of fatty roasted pork, garlic shrimp, charred steak, and more. December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 103

EUROPE

ulinary tours across continental Europe are so full of delights that it’s difficult to know where to begin. Look no further than the snackable Spanish cooking at Costa Mesa’s VACA. All manner of tapas are served here: beer-battered, cheese-stuffed piquillo peppers with peanut romesco; rock shrimp ceviche in a watermelon-tomato gazpacho; smoked chicken cannelloni in foie gras sauce. Add a few sheer, fatty slices of Ibérico ham and a pan of paella Valenciana to turn light snacks into a full-fledged feast. San Juan Capistrano’s cozy DÉLICE BRETON imports the flavors of Brittany, France’s northwesternmost region. The focus here should be on the cafe’s traditional buckwheat crepes—delicate, earthy parcels filled with savory options (perhaps a whole forest’s worth of sauteed mushrooms or ham and cheese). There are pastries (including 104 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

JÄGERHAUS

Brittany’s famed kouign amann) as well as picnic-ready baguettes loaded with sliced apple, creamy Brie, honey, and greens. Newport Beach’s BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE bills itself as Italian food the way it’s served in Italy, which here mostly means traditional dishes refracted through a modern lens. Crispy octopus and roasted rapini dressed in a Calabrian-style meat sauce conjures images of Italy’s southern coast. Pasta alla Norcia with pork sausage, roasted mushrooms, parsley, and truffle recalls the best hearty Umbrian cooking. At JÄGERHAUS in Anaheim, there’s no such modernity—the restaurant is a paean to traditional German cooking. In the mornings, there are massive, craggy cast-iron pancakes topped with apples, and omelets loaded with bratwurst, sauerkraut, and onion. At night, platters of schnitzel zip through the time warp of a dining room, paired with a heaping spoonful of spaetzle or a side of braised red cabbage.

BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 105

HOUSE OF MANDI 106 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

THE MIDDLE EAST AND SOUTH ASIA

ll cuisines are indebted to the past, but few have histories as rich and interwoven as those along the Silk Road and its maritime spice routes. It’s a journey that can be re-created in Orange County. Make Anaheim’s HATAM the first stop. Blackened kebabs are at the heart of Hatam. Still, there’s much more to explore, perhaps the zereshk polo (basmati rice studded with barberries and served with broiled chicken) or ghormeh sabzi (a thick, herbaceous stew zapped with dried lime and seasoned beef ). HOUSE OF MANDI in Anaheim is a rare purveyor of Yemeni cooking. The restaurant is named after its signature dish, mandi, a feast of fragrant saffron-stained rice topped with pit-roasted meats. But it’s worth considering the full breadth of the menu, like shafoot (a spicy yogurt salad of sorts with cucumber and tomato, served with fresh flatbread) and seltah (a roiling vegetable stew topped with fluffy whipped fenugreek). Lake Forest’s CHILI CHUTNEY has long been the standard-bearer of Afghan cuisine. Ashak is a perennial favorite, a dish of leek dumplings dressed with meaty tomato sauce, sour cream, and spices. Qabili Palau is just as special. It’s easy to see why the festive staple is so beloved: a hearty plate of basmati rice topped with a braised lamb shank and garnished with sweet carrots and raisins. Finally, the journey lands in India. Tustin’s INDIA KITCHEN is a survey in itself of the country’s regional recipes. There are lacy, delicate dosas, fennel- and cardamom-scented shrimp Chettinad, and Hyderabadi-style biryani from the south. From the north, look for chicken kadai, yogurt-braised goat korma, and creamy, tomato-based mutter paneer. December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 107

LATIN AMERICA AND SOUTH AMERICA

trek south might stop first in El Salvador, one of the smallest countries in the Americas but with vast culinary contributions. At EL PULGARCITO in Orange, morning means sweet fried plantains and scrambled eggs. Heartier appetites are fortified with plates of fried yucca and crispy chicharrón as well as more than a dozen pupusas, each best crowned with a heap of bracing cabbage relish. Lake Forest staple RENZO’S TASTE OF PERU is exactly that, a survey of the country’s storied multicultural cuisine. Ceviche mixto is essential, a generous jumble of fish, shrimp, squid, mussels, and scallops sluiced with citrus and served with sweet potato and plump Peruvian corn. The famous lomo saltado emerged from the ChinesePeruvian tradition—soy-marinated 108 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

RENZO’S TASTE OF PERU

beef stir-fried with fries, onion, and bell pepper. Brazilian cooking is varied and complex. TASTE in Huntington Beach offers a sampling of Brazil’s best snacks. Coxinha is as addictive as it is filling, a triangular croquette stuffed with spiced shredded chicken and cream cheese. A batch of airy cheese puffs called pão de queijo will be gone before you know it. There are sandwiches and simple grilled dishes, too. PATAGONIA EMPANADAS in Orange is an ambassador of Argentine cuisine. The namesake empanadas are excellent (try the cordobesa and spinach and cheese), but there’s all manner of Argentine dishes to explore here. Entrees most often showcase Argentina’s extensive Italian influence. Pizza is topped with ham, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and roasted peppers, or ever-so-simply with mozzarella and a surfeit of thinly shaved onion.

PATAGONIA EMPANADAS December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 109

THE MEDITERRANEAN AND AFRICA

m editerranean food is a catch-all that draws culinary inspiration from three continents. In the Eastern Mediterranean, Turkish cooking is a crossroads of flavors. At Fountain Valley’s ISTANBUL GRILL, start down that path with a pair of meze: creamy, garlicky hummus and ezme, a minced salad of tomatoes, onions, walnuts, chiles, and olive oil. Iskender kebab takes thinly sliced sheets of lamb-andbeef döner kebab and tosses them with toasted flatbread, yogurt, and tomato sauce. A rich cup of custardy rice pudding should round out any meal. ALEPPO’S KITCHEN in Anaheim imports a taste of Syria. Kibbeh— ground meat and bulgur dumplings 110 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

CAIRO

typically formed into palm-size balls—are a specialty. There are five varieties, each unique in its cooking method. One is skewered and grilled like meatballs, another is stacked like a cake and fried. Try qatayef for dessert, dumplings filled with cream or ground walnuts and slicked with honey and pistachios. In Africa, Egyptian cooking bridges geographical boundaries. Look past the kebabs at CAIRO in Anaheim to find the restaurant’s regional specialties. Mesakaa (fried eggplant with ground beef in tomato sauce) is a cousin of Greek moussaka. Koshary is a hearty vegetarian feast: a mound of lentils, rice, and pasta topped with hearty tomato sauce, fried onions, and chickpeas. Finish with umm

ali, a delicate bread pudding that alternates layers of flaky puff pastry and ground nuts. Ethiopian cuisine is one of Africa’s most recognizable. At TANA in Anaheim, injera is at the heart of every meal. The spongy fermented flatbread pairs with everything here, particularly one of the traditional combo plates like the vegetarian special: a massive round of injera topped with scoops of stewed red lentils, ginger-spiked yellow split peas, cooked spinach, spicy chickpea stew, and more. Add an order of doro wot (Ethiopia’s iconic dish of chicken thighs simmered in a berbere-spiced sauce) and a couple glasses of honey wine to make a meal that feels at once celebratory and comforting.

EAST ASIA

ast Asia’s culinary contributions are countless. Still, few have had as profound an impact as China’s many regional cuisines. Lately, tongue-tingling Sichuan cooking has enthralled Southern California. Tustin’s SICHUAN IMPRESSION is among the finest, with crowds flocking for the restaurant’s tea-smoked pork ribs and chile-lashed toothpick lamb. Most dishes sting with chile heat and electrify with tingling Sichuan pepper, but there is balance with plates of pickled cucumber, garlicky stir-fried potato strips, and a dessert of sweet rice cakes

SICHUAN IMPRESSION

dusted with toasted soy powder and drizzled with brown sugar syrup. At O’SHINE in Lake Forest, Taiwanese cooking centers around the classic pork chop rice plate. A massive pork chop is dusted in starch and spices and fried until golden and paired with rice, pickled mustard greens, and sauteed cabbage. Simple stirfried noodles and crispy popcorn chicken delight, but so too does ba-wan, a glutinous sweet potato starch dumpling filled with pork and vegetables. Costa Mesa’s IZAKAYA HACHI is an upscale take on Japan’s storied drinking and dining culture. Skewers of chicken are lacquered and blackened over

charcoal. Burdock root is sliced and fried into snackable chips. Those veering away from typical izakaya dishes might seek out the pressed mackerel sushi or the luxe beef sashimi, raw wagyu beef wrapped around lobes of uni and topped with caviar. MO RAN GAK in Garden Grove is one the best Korean restaurants this side of Los Angeles’ sprawling Koreatown. Barbecue here consists of fantastic, richly marbled meats that pair all too well with the restaurant’s array of banchan. There’s also bibimbap, massive seafood pancakes, and northernstyle cold noodles that can help beat just about any heat wave. December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 111

PHILANTHROPY

SERVING A PURPOSE S N A P S H O T

Orange Lutheran High School senior Jacob Eusebio cofounded a tennis nonprofit that empowers kids with disabilities, garnering an award from ESPN and tennis icon Billie Jean King in the process. by Aliese Willard Muhonen Growing up, Jacob struggled to bond with his younger brother, Evan. “Evan was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2, and it was always really hard for me to find a way to connect with him. Evan was always super quiet. He wasn’t really interested in what anyone else was doing. I saw a lot of my friends bonding with their brothers through video games, various sports. But no matter what I tried with Evan, we just couldn’t find that connection.” The brothers’ turning point came through tennis. Jacob started playing at age 8, taking lessons at the Anaheim Tennis Center with his family every Sunday. Though Evan usually preferred to sit on the sidelines, one day he joined Jacob on the court. “Evan and I did that first lesson together, and honestly, it was amazing. It was just different from what I was used to seeing from Evan. I got to see him smile. I got to see him laugh. It was something that changed my whole family because Evan and I were able to find our special connection on the tennis court that day.” Inspired by his brother’s enthusiasm, Jacob recruited his two best friends to form the nonprofit Serving Advantage in 2020. Like Eusebio, cofounders Natalie Rodriguez and Andy Loughran are high school seniors and varsity tennis players. Their goal was to offer adaptive tennis programs to kids with intellectual or developmental disabilities, teachphotograph by E M I LY J . D AV I S

When you serve in tennis, you have the advantage. … We wanted to serve the advantage to specialneeds kids by giving them the social skills they needed to be successful.

ing not only tennis techniques but methods to improve students’ social skills. The founders attained permits and licensing for coaching and court space, planned curriculum, and put on the first five-day tennis camp in July 2020, with bimonthly clinics since. By the time Serving Advantage hosted its second summer camp this year, the program had grown to include 52 students and 50 volunteers from 17 area high schools. “We really had no idea how things were going to turn out, whether people would be able to forge a connection. A lot of students are more quiet at the very beginning of the week. As the week unfolded, we saw them become more social. We actually saw their smiles as they walked on the court. We got to hear them laugh together. And every month, we see new students wanting to come in because they see the moments and memories that our students and volunteers have been able to form both on and off the court.” Eusebio was one of six students in the nation awarded the Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award for his work. He represented the nonprofit at the 2021 ESPN Sports Humanitarian Awards in New York. In addition to earning a $10,000 grant for the nonprofit and mentorship opportunities, he got to meet the tennis legend. “I and the other (awardees) got to have lunch with her. It was an amazing experience. She’s just as she is when I see her online—super knowledgeable, super nice, and she was super open to hearing what we all had to say. It was inspiring just to see so many influential people in the sports industry using their talents to do good.”

December 2021 • OR A NGE C OAST 113

PHILANTHROPY

Q U O T E S

R I G H T O N PA R

Jin Thatcher’s roots make her the perfect leader at the TGR Foundation. by Alan Gibbons

he O.C. native and UC Irvine alumna is the vice president of operations and administration of TGR Foundation, which celebrates its 25th year helping underserved youth through education and college readiness programs. Thatcher joined the group in 2003 to be the project manager for the TGR Learning Lab in Anaheim. “When I first

joined, there were six of us.” Now the nonprofit employs 60 people and hosts multiple events. Thatcher says working in the community and building employee benefits—a maternity plan and 401k, for example—have kept her engaged. “The nonprofit world was never where I saw myself. I told them I’d do it for three years. The professional journey and the opportunities have kept me strong.” We grew up in Santa Ana. (At age 5) I could only speak Korean and Spanish, even though I was born as an American citizen. My parents were working two or three jobs, and the lady down the hall was taking care of me and other kids. … I took the OCTA bus to elementary school. My parents were adamant that we would speak English fluently and go to college.

Ú Asking for what you need is hard. We have to encourage the students to be bold. We have to ask them to communicate, follow through, and take risks.

Ú I had wanted to be an attorney and go to law school and be a judge one day, (but) I was intimidated by the financial commitment. I said, I’m going to pivot. … What corporation might pay for a graduate program? I was chasing education funded by others.

Ú Paying it forward does get me out of bed at 4 a.m. I’m excited to wake up and get going.

Ú I got to lead the Earl Woods Scholarship initiative in 2006, and then it really started to click. The work we’re doing … we’re serving kids like me—that brought so much more value than a paycheck. 114 O R A N G E C O A S T • December 2021

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

PHILANTHROPY S T A T S

SWEET CAUSE

Desserts, toys, and pizza offer a special delivery for kids at CHOC. by Alan Gibbons

auren Roberts was 5 when her friend Julian Dunn was diagnosed with brain cancer. She hosted a lemonade stand to raise money for his treatment, and she has continued fundraising ever since. The daughter of Jeff and Erica Roberts, two of the partners at Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza, is now 17 and her philanthropic spirit continues. She launched Sweet Things for a Sweet Cause and donates the profits from desserts to

Number of years since Lauren launched Sweet Things for a Sweet Cause

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

$1,500

Money raised for Julian from Lauren’s lemonade stand

benefit Julian’s LEGO Corner, a nonprofit founded by Julian’s mother, Andrea (shown here with Lauren). The two groups contribute toys and money to children being treated at CHOC. “It’s so cool to know there are other kids benefiting from this and playing with Legos,” Lauren says. “Other kids who are sick might be someone else’s Julian.” Sgt. Pepperoni’s also donates proceeds from the pizza of the month in September, which was Julian’s birthday month.

$35,000

Money raised at Sgt. Pepperoni’s in September this year, double the 2020 figure

Number of years Sgt. Pepperoni’s has sponsored the monthlong fundraiser

$100K

Funds raised to date

December 2021 • O R A N G E C O A S T 115

PHILANTHROPY RITUALS

Spreading Hope Adopting a family for the holidays provides good feelings all around. by Laura Saari

olks in harm’s way are easy to find during the pandemic. They serve the meals and clean the floors, and sometimes they own the restaurants. While many people are back at work, others are still just getting by. For them, the holidays only seem to underline what is lacking. A housecleaner I met, Betty, had worked her way into a reasonably comfortable life before COVID-19. Betty’s husband had a job doing construction cleanup. They have three kids and a nice apartment near a green park in Huntington

Beach. She’s active in her church and in a community leadership program with her city. Her eldest was college bound. Then their world turned upside down. When the coronavirus sent people home, everybody in her family lost their jobs. Betty hauled out her boxes of Christmas decorations early last year. It was only September, still blazing hot. But Betty was intent on keeping things merry and bright. For her family’s sake. I sat with her in her sparkling white apartment, beneath a giant sign inscribed: Eat, Drink & Give Thanks. “We had a broken heart last Christmas, but we were fully decorated,” she says, her sudden peal of laughter surprising me. “I told my kids, ‘We aren’t going to have any gifts this year.’ ” And just as suddenly as she laughed, tears filled her eyes. “You know, your kids expect something at Christmas.” But then she received a gift she didn’t expect. As she took them aside to tell them the bad news, they tried to comfort her. “They all told me they understood.” Neighbors came to her aid. Neighbors she will probably never meet. Just a few of about 100 people who sign up every year to adopt a family or senior as part of the Hope for the Holidays program from Community Action Partnership Orange County.

BETT Y WAS AMONG THE thousands in our county, where hospitality is a huge industry, who saw their incomes plummet during the pandemic. “Many in Orange County went from being underemployed to unemployed,” says Gregory C. Scott, pres116 O RA N G E C OAST • December 2021

illustration by R A C H E L I D Z E R D A

ident and chief executive officer of Community Action Partnership Orange County. CAP OC, born in 1965 of the War on Poverty, also runs one of the county’s largest food banks, distributes assistance with rent and utilities, operates a diaper bank and the Southwest Community Center in Santa Ana, and has opened three family resource centers to provide services to families in need. Given the group’s size, it was able to make a big impact during the pandemic. In 2019, the organization distributed 23.3 million pounds of food. In 2020, it distributed 63.2 million pounds—in the face of many of the traditional donated food sources drying up (grocery stores, food drives). Making up the difference: several local angels who gave big donations that enabled food bank officials to buy food. That remains the most coveted item—financial gifts. But the annual holiday program is largely dependent on individuals, on families and friends coming together to help a family in need. In many years of writing about philanthropy, I’ve met some of these donor families. Each one told me they got more out of it than they gave. One such donor is Irvine resident Chrissy Peterson. When she was a girl, Peterson’s parents, both U.S. Marines, taught her and her sister about giving. They picked out dolls for low-income military families, and a tradition started that has lasted to this day. For years, Peterson has rounded up her friends, and together they adopt families recommended by CAP OC. Her favorite part is sitting down on a weekend afternoon with her part of a family’s list and trying to order everything on it. Other families, plus work and friend groups, keep overall costs down by each buying one item. “Usually, the parents don’t ask for the fun things,” she says. “If the parent doesn’t ask for something fun, we double up on the necessities. If they ask for a sweater, we’ll get them two. If they

want shoes, we’ll get Nike and Adidas.”

SOME RECIPIENTS OF HOPE for Holidays also volunteer their time for the program. During the pandemic, Betty helped conduct food drives and delivered meals to seniors for the “Meals on Wheels” program. She also volunteers with the City of Stanton. This year, Betty still only has two houses to clean, as many of her other clients are still skittish about housecleaners. But her husband is back to work, and her oldest child is studying Spanish and civic and community engagement at UC Irvine.

“I WANT TO TELL ANYONE WHO IS THINKING OF HELPING WITH THIS PROGRAM THAT WITH THEIR BIG HEART, THEY CAN MAKE ANOTHER HEART HAPPY.” “I want to tell anyone who is thinking of helping with this program that with their big heart, they can make another heart happy,” Betty says. “It might be something small they’re doing, but for a family like ours, it’s huge. It was priceless on Christmas Day to see my children’s faces filled with joy. That night, we said a prayer, and we thanked a family we will probably never know for their generosity.” Scott has witnessed plenty of need in his past positions as CEO of New Directions for Homeless Veterans and CEO of the Weingart Center for the Homeless in L.A. But the impact of the pandemic is astounding even to him. What shocked many was how

deeply the pandemic affected the middle class. “We’ve seen the newly vulnerable who have mortgages and car payments but don’t have food. When we saw that group (showing up at food bank events), that was a telltale sign of how traumatic the pandemic has been,” Scott says.

CAP OC, ONE OF THE L ARGEST social services agencies in the county, is gearing up to help more people for years to come. The needs are sometimes hard to predict. During the pandemic, diapers were in such demand that the agency started its planned diaper bank two months early. There was also funding to help people pay their utilities and rent. “Post-recovery is going to be several years,” Scott says. “We’re not just going to turn a switch on. The numbers are still spiking. People are still unemployed. People are still working remotely.” Scott sees his organization’s workforce development and financial empowerment programs becoming even more important in the coming months. There’s dramatic fallout from the pandemic, and it’s exhausting. I think we all know of small businesses struggling to get back to normal, soldiering ahead with fewer people to meet higher demand. Maybe we know of middle-class families who have had to move out of our neighborhoods because their incomes were dependent on the service industry. But this is a very giving place, and we’ve always remained upbeat as a people in Orange County, through desperate recessions and now this pandemic. Our optimism is one of our best qualities. Unfortunately, sometimes when the sun is shining so brightly on our faces, we are unable to see the people right in front of us who might not have needed us before, but quietly, stoically, desperately, they sure need us now. December 2021 • OR A NGE COAST 117

@orangecoastmag More info: orangecoast.com

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A HELPING HAND PROFILING LOCAL NONPROFITS & CHARITIES

December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 119

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UPCOMING EVENTS See The Good Virtual Tour Year Round Join us for a virtual inside look at the heartbeat of Goodwill, the programs and services we operate, and the incredible people we serve. RSVP to communitydevelopment@ ocgoodwill.org to join the next tour.

2022 Goodwill Golf Classic May 25, 2022 Pelican Hill Golf Club Newport Beach Join Goodwill of Orange County for its annual Golf Classic to support local veterans and their families. The tournament will raise important funds for the Tierney Center for Veteran Services, a comprehensive resource for veterans in Orange County that provides job placement, housing assistance, support navigating and accessing benefits, emergency services, and more. For additional information, email danielles@ocgoodwill.org or text GOODWILLGOLF to 41444.

GOODWILL OF ORANGE COUNTY Goodwill of Orange County has been serving our community for 97 years, and there is no stopping us now! We are energized in our commitment to find meaningful employment opportunities and pathways to independence for every individual seeking a new beginning or a step up. From justice-involved youth and individuals with a physical or cognitive disability to veterans and others with barriers to employment, we see these individuals’ potential and the value of their unique abilities. Most people think of Goodwill as just a thrift store. But our business is really about changing lives. Our mission helps make independence a reality for the people we serve, through the transformative power of a meaningful job.

MISSION Goodwill helps people who are facing barriers find and keep jobs, which provides purpose, pride and dignity. 120 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

410 North Fairview Street Santa Ana, CA 92703 714.547.6308 ocgoodwill.org

WHY DONATE Help change a life. Everyone deserves to feel the purpose, pride and dignity that comes from meaningful employment.

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

GIVE THE GIFT OF RESEARCH TO THE FACES OF INNOVATION IN BREAST CANCER RESEARCH

DR. SUSAN LOVE FOUNDATION FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research challenges the status quo to end breast cancer and improve the lives of those impacted, through collaborative research, education, and advocacy.

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and treatment and fosters participation in much-needed research and advocacy. The Foundation conducts and collaborates on state-of-the-art research within the scientific community, setting

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THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF BREAST CANCER. SUSAN LOVE, MD, MBA

www.drsusanloveresearch.org

3D Model of Cancer in a Breast Duct by QT Ultrasound

the stage for future medical breakthroughs – and the eradication of the disease.

A HELPING HAND

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RADIANT HEALTH CENTERS Radiant Health Centers has been a trusted provider of comprehensive services for the LGBTQ+ community for more than 35 years. The organization’s growth over the past years has allowed it to provide access to compassionate healthcare and medications for the broader LGBTQ+ community regardless of their HIV status, in addition to its social services for those living with HIV that include: food pantry, mental health services, transitional housing, transportation and special programs designed for adults 55 and older. “Throughout our journey to grow and expand, we have remained true to our mission to end the HIV epidemic, while providing supportive services that allow individuals to maintain a healthy life.” stated Philip Yaeger, Radiant Health Centers’ CEO and Executive Director.

MISSION Radiant Health Centers provides the LGBTQ+ community medical services that are compassionate and comprehensive while continuing to serve those living with and affected by HIV.

UPCOMING EVENT Annual Gala Dinner and Entertainment January 29, 2022 The Grand Gimeno Old Town Orange, 146 N Grand St, Orange CA 92866 Proceeds from Radiant Health Centers Gala will provide HIV testing, specialized medical treatment and social services for thousands of un or under-insured individuals in Orange County who are at risk of HIV/AIDS.

WHY DONATE With more than 7,000 people living with HIV in Orange County, and an estimated 900 who are unaware of their status, it is imperative that we join forces as a community to address the HIV epidemic and stop it in its tracks.

17982 Sky Park Circle, Suite J Irvine, CA 92614 949.809.5700 radianthealthcenters.org Donate at bit.ly/donaterhc 122 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

For more information contact, Ana Martinez at amartinez@radianthealthcenters.org

EMPOWERING STUDENTS THROUGH EDUCATION FOR 25 YEARS

2M +

4 STARS

STUDENTS REACHED

Earl Woods Scholar Program graduation rate

the highest ranking from Charity Navigator

In person and virtually

25 YEARS OF IMPACT Inspired by Tiger’s vision, youth are at the heart of all we do. Through our STEM education, college and career programs, we’re providing students with tangible opportunities to discover their passions, deepen their knowledge and transform their lives. JOIN THE MOVEMENT Help students from underserved communities on their path to personal and professional success. Get Involved: TGRFoundation.org/PathwaysForward @ TGRFound |

@ TGRfoundation |

@ TGRFound

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UPCOMING EVENT Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast Thursday, May 19, 2022 The Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast is not just Orange County’s ultimate power breakfast, it’s an opportunity to make a significant impact in our community. More than 950 highly regarded philanthropists and leaders gather at this signature event to share their passion for empowering OC families. Funds raised support our programmatic work to help families transition from surviving to thriving.

Above: Our WelcomeHomeOC SM program has housed over 500 people previously experiencing homelessness, like Darrel, who now lives in a stable and safe apartment in Anaheim. Bottom right: Meet Nathalie and Andrea, a mentee and mentor pair from our Class of 2021 e-Mentorship Program. Nathalie was accepted to Stanford University on a full-ride scholarship and her mentor Andrea, from our corporate partner Edwards Lifesciences, couldn’t be happier for her.

We’re proud to present Misty Copeland, First African American Female Principal Dancer with the Prestigious American Ballet Theatre, as our celebrity guest. To learn more, visit WPFBreakfast.org.

ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY Orange County United Way is committed to leading the fight for equity by removing barriers, closing gaps, and leveling the playing field for everyone who lives here. We put our mission into action through three initiatives: United for Student Success SM, United for Financial Security SM, and United to End Homelessness SM. Each includes programming to meet basic needs, develop skills, and ensure long-term success. Orange County United Way also steps up whenever our communities need us to respond to immediate or emerging crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Join us in helping our students succeed, our struggling families gain financial security, and our homeless neighbors find a place to call home. Learn more at UnitedWayOC.org.

VISION

WHY DONATE

We envision an Orange County where every person receives a quality education, is financially stable, is healthy and thriving, and has a place to call home.

When you contribute to Orange County United Way, your gift transforms lives right here in our community.

124 Ora nge C oast • December 2021

18012 Mitchell South Irvine, CA 92614 949.660.7600 UnitedWayOC.org

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UPCOMING EVENT 2022 Voice for Girls: “Press Play on Gender Equity in the Workplace” May 6, 2022 8:00-10:30 a.m.

Newport Beach Country Club, Newport Beach, CA

GIRL SCOUTS OF ORANGE COUNTY In Girl Scouts, we bring girls’ dreams to life and work to build a better world. Through programs in every zip code in Orange County, girls of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their ﬁrst best friends.

MISSION Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, conﬁdence, and character, who make the world a better place.

9500 Toledo Way, Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92618 949.461.8800 girlscoutsoc.org

A forum for business and community leaders, decision-makers and key inﬂuencers to align around a vital mission—to support and champion girls in reaching their full potential as leaders in society.

WHY DONATE Invest in girls who will change the world. Girl Scouts provides lifechanging experiences for girls who will become tomorrow’s business, civic, and volunteer leaders.

UPCOMING EVENT Empty Bowls April 7, 2022 starting at 6:00 p.m. | Irvine, CA

SOUTH COUNTY OUTREACH South County Outreach serves homeless families, the underemployed, unemployed, seniors, veterans, and other at-risk residents of Orange County. We envision an Orange County community where no one goes to bed hungry or without a place to call home. We believe that helping people help themselves is the most effective way to build a selfsustaining community. South County Outreach helps those in crisis reach and maintain self-sufﬁciency by providing housing opportunities, ﬁnancial assistance for rent and utilities, education program, and high-quality, emergency food services.

MISSION Preventing hunger and homelessness by helping people help themselves.

7 Whatney, Suite B Irvine, CA 92618 949.380.8144 sco-oc.org

Taste and sip to end hunger and house hope with South County Outreach’s Empty Bowls hunger awareness fundraiser! South County Outreach will collaborate with locally renowned chefs to treat attendees to a night of tastings and fundraising with the goal to provide pantry essentials to those experiencing food insecurity. For more information, contact Dennis Williams at dwilliams@sco-oc.org or call 949-380-8144 ext. 218.

WHY DONATE Your support of South County Outreach changes lives for the better, by providing food, housing, and other support to families on the road to self-sufﬁciency.

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PATH

We know that homes end homelessness, and the past two years have only emphasized the critical importance of having a safe place to call home. In 2021, PATH moved more than 1,500 people off the streets and into permanent homes. There is much more work ahead, and we need your help. PATH is inviting you to donate and help our homeless neighbors make it home. Your gift will ensure we can continue to provide life-saving services to those most in need.

UPCOMING EVENT 16th Annual PATH Ventures Jazz Night! Thursday, November 18, 2021 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Our mission is to end homelessness for individuals, families, and communities. PATH envisions a world where every person has a home.

This year, for the very first time, PATH Ventures Jazz Night will be a hybrid event, celebrated both in person and virtually. Given that our programs have expanded vastly across the state and that there are varying levels of social comfort, we want to ensure everyone has an opportunity to join us. Jazz Night guests will enjoy a specialty cocktail reception, a luxury raffle, and a three-course seated dinner. The night will conclude with a lively and soulful jazz concert by George Kahn Jazz & Blues Revue. If celebrating virtually, the tickets include a livestream of the event and a curated event package including an assortment of wine, wine glasses, and charcuterie, which will be mailed to ticket holders in advance. All proceeds from Jazz Night will benefi t PATH Ventures’ work to end homelessness across California by creating supportive and affordable homes.

WHY DONATE

For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Carley Berkowitz at carleyb@epath.org

MISSION

PATH is inviting you to help our homeless neighbors make it home. Your donation will ensure we can continue to provide life-saving services to those most in need.

340 North Madison Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 644-2200 | epath.org/give

O.C. Scene CASA CELEBRATION Over 250 guests arrived to support CASA’s mission of serving abused, abandoned, and neglected children in Orange County with a trained volunteer advocate. After a year of virtual events, we were excited to reconnect with our donors, sponsors, and CASA supporters in our community. Celebration 2021 was overseen by Jacqueline DuPont-Carlson, Karen Jordan, Lourdes Nark, Urvashi Patel, Wendy Tenebaum, and Linda Young. This year’s honorees included The John & Gail Ueberroth Family Foundation as Outstanding Foundation, Lugano Diamonds as Outstanding Corporation, The Wong Family as Children’s Champions, and Nancy and Richard Eaton as our Advocates of the Year. The evening concluded with a live performance from Grammy Award Winner, Macy Gray featuring her hit song “I Try” with Celebration guests on the feet dancing and singing along. Photo Credit: John Watkins

126 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

For Tickets visit: 2021jazznight.eventbrite.com The Broad Stage 1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

PROMOTION

PEOPLE

PA R T I E S

EVENTS

OPENINGS

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Charitable Events

CALENDAR YEAR ROUND SEE THE GOOD VIRTUAL TOUR Goodwill Orange County ocgoodwill.org/events ------------------

DECEMBER 2021

FRIENDS OF CASA HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) OC The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel CasaOC.org

SANTA STROLL Jesse Rees Foundation NEGU Santa Margarita Catholic High School Track negu.org

LIGHT A LIGHT OF LOVE Waymakers OC Downtown Huntington Beach Main Street/Pier Plaza waymakersoc.org/events/lighta-light-of-love

CHRISTMAS CAROL BALL Hoag Foundation Location TBD hoaghospitalfoundation.org/ christmas-carol-ball

MAY 2022

------------------

2022 VOICE OF GIRLS “PRESS PLAY ON GENDER EQUITY” Girl Scouts of Orange County Newport Beach Country Club girlscoutsoc.org

JANUARY 2022

RADIANT HEALTH CENTERS ANNUAL GALA DINNER AND ENTERTAINMENT Grand Gimeno in Orange RadiantHealthCenters.org ------------------

MARCH 2022

TABLE FOR 10 Make-A-Wish Newport Beach Marriott TableForTen.org ------------------

April 2022

EMPTY BOWLS South County Outreach Irvine, CA sco-oc.org

CHOC GALA CHOC Foundation The City National Grove of Anaheim foundation.choc.org/choc-gala

MARCH FOR BABIES March of Dimes Virtual Experience marchforbabies.org

WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY FUND BREAKFAST Orange County United Way Location TBD WPFBreakfast.org

GOODWILL GOLF CLASSIC Pelican Hill Golf Club Newport Beach ocgoodwill.org/events

December 2021 • Or a nge Coast 127

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DINING GUIDE

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

ANAHEIM BLU SKYBAR Gawk at the view from the 12-story rooftop digs, but know that BluSkybar’s Basque cuisine is what really makes this hotel restaurant Anaheim’s most interesting newcomer. Executive chef Edgar Beas is fresh off stints at Michelin-starred kitchens, applying mastery to a tight menu of Spanish dishes. Look for Iberico pork items, indulgent salt cod, and lobster paella. Late night, the place thumps with club action. Radisoon Blu, 1601 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-4091458. Dinner only $$ CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR Dead center in Downtown Disney, Catal is the Patina Group’s nod to Spain’s Mediterranean cuisine. Expect an urbane spin on rustic fare such as lobster paella, making this one of the zone’s better spots for fine dining. Just outside, Uva Bar is an alfresco saloon with light eats and great peoplewatching. 1580 Disneyland Drive, 714-774-4442. $$$ MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Steaks—including the 24-ounce porterhouse and center-cut filet mignon—are wet-aged 23 to 25 days. Fill your plate with giant sides of broccoli and hash browns, but leave a little room: There’s chocolate cake for dessert. Killer bar-bite deals nightly from 4:30 to closing. 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., 714-621-0101. See South Coast Metro location. $$$ NAPA ROSE Wine country thrives at the Disneyland Resort by way of this classy dinner house— no park admission required. Star chef Andrew Sutton leads his crew in an exhibition kitchen, turning out imaginative, highly seasonal New American fare. The room mixes rustic with refined, and the notably wine-savvy waitstaff, many qualified as sommeliers, deftly tailors unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$

POKINOMETRY Downtown Anaheim’s build-a-poke-bowl canteen is busy for three reasons: The food is delectable, cheap, and made your way. All the elements of delicious Hawaiian poke are assembled based on what you choose. Pick from cubed raw fish, white or brown rice, fresh onions, cucumber, avocado, mild to incendiary sauces, and vibrant garnishes of smelt roe, sesame seeds, nori, pickled ginger, and wasabi. Parking is problematic, so go off-hours, or pay for a spot in the Wells Fargo garage off West Broadway. 184 S. Harbor Blvd., 657-208-3488. No alcohol. $ POPPY & SEED Chef-owner Michael Reed applies his versatile chops to a spirited, seasonal dinner menu of share plates and thoughtful proteins. Clever variations on of-the-moment produce are high points, as are premium steaks and duck dishes. The one-of-a-kind greenhouse garden setting is a calming contrast to neighbor Anaheim Packing House. Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$ PUESTO Part of a swanky new Westin resort, UPDATE the latest site of this high-flying taqueria is perhaps the most dramatic. Kinetic lighting, mobile bar shelves, and a tequila temple wall engage diners as they down showy drinks and novel taco-centric fare. Handmade blue corn tortillas and cheesy Oaxacan fricos lend tacos a signature difference. Ask about the monthly taco special. 1040 W. Katella Ave., 714-294-0362. $$ See Huntington Beach and Irvine locations. THE RANCH RESTAURANT & SALOON Oozing top-notch ambition, The Ranch packs some big guns—executive chef Michael Rossi and his brother David, pastry chef. The large venue also includes an upscale saloon and dance hall, sited in the six-story headquarters of Extron Electronics. The whopping (mostly) seasonal American fare is a mashup of down-home and uptown. 1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$

TRUE SEASONS ORGANIC KITCHEN This sleek storefront by Saifon Plewtong now adds wraps, bowls, smoothies, and desserts to a menu that once focused solely on hot pots. Still, the spotlight is on organic, GMO-free local produce and allnatural proteins. Do try the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice for a refresher like no other in these parts. 5675 E. La Palma Ave., 714-462-9223. Beer and wine. $$ URBANA This colorful tenant at the Anaheim Packing House brings vibrancy and a cool cantina attitude to a food hall that really needed a good taco and mezcal cocktail. Executive chef Ernie Alvarado’s short menu of savvy street food changes often, and you can’t go wrong with his daily specials. Cozy surroundings offer a choice of ambience—festive or sultry. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-502-0255. $$

ANAHEIM HILLS EL CHOLO A spiffy suburban outpost of the combo-plate chain that started in L.A. in 1923. Many dishes are listed with their year of origin. One of the best dates from the birth of the restaurant: the Sonora-style enchilada topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 8200 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-769-6269. See Corona del Mar and La Habra locations. $$ REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK Popular with the locals, this dapper haunt oozes bonhomie thanks to a solid team led by industry vet Scott McIntosh, whose feel-good American classics are consistently executed by a tight kitchen. Service is sharp. Look for a homey meatloaf, laudable fried chicken with yummy mashers and fresh biscuits, and house-made desserts. Modern cocktails and a roomy patio increase the pleasure factor. 5775 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, 714-283-1062. Second location (not yet reviewed) in Laguna Beach. $$ ROSINE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This neighborhood darling includes a 20-seat bar, complete with a full liquor license and a clutch of specialty cocktails. Fragrant rotisserie chickens are always popular, though the menu now offers winebraised lamb shanks, and Pacific ono skewers. A sizable roster of gluten-free choices anchors a spin-off menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

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

OUR CRITERIA Restaurants are reviewed by our dining critics and staff and have no relationship to advertising in Orange Coast. Listings are updated regularly. We do not accept free meals; visits are anonymous. Price classifications are based on a typical three‑course dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert) for one person. Alan Gibbons edits this listing. You can reach her at agibbons@orangecoast.com. 128 Ora nge C o ast • December 2021

Paella de bogavante at Blu Skybar CHA CHA’S L ATIN KITCHEN This cool hang with a wraparound sidewalk patio is Birch Street Promenade’s most enduring dining success. Helmed by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni, the menu of modern Mexican fare is boosted by a wood-burning oven and new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole. Taco Tuesday is just one of many weekly specials. Impressive tequila menu. 110 W. Birch St., 714-255-1040. See Irvine location. $$ JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Big and welcoming, this 230-seat sprawling venue is a utility player thanks to a broad menu of modern comfort fare. It’s a handy call for patio lunches, upbeat happy hours, hearty dinners, and bossy brunches. Locals swarm the upbeat space, noshing on mighty burgers, fried chicken, and prime rib. Desserts are fantastically huge, if ordinary. 3325 E. Imperial Highway, 714-733-1310. See Dana Point location. $$$ MACALL ANS PUBLIC HOUSE Chef Andrew Wang’s modern but comforting pub cooking is just one upgrade that’s helping this young venue finally catch on in North County. Topnotch whiskey offerings and a killer Irish breakfast on weekends also entice. Don’t miss the ridiculously authentic Irish coffee, or stop in for the very robust happy hour. The upscale vibe is a welcome switch from the usual timeworn pub conditions. 330 W. Birch St., 714-529-1224. $$ OLD BREA CHOP HOUSE North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a Tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service.

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

Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with charcuterie platters. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714592-3122. Dinner only. $$$ TAPS FISH HOUSE & BREWERY Taps continues to be O.C.’s landmark pick for dining on a wide range of appealing seafood, pasta, steaks, and spunky New Orleans specialties that go down well with award-winning ales and lagers that change often. Happy hour is a big draw for value-seekers. Sunday brunch is a popular feast. 101 E. Imperial Highway, 714-257-0101. $$

CORONA DEL MAR THE BUNGALOW Comfy booths, a lively bar with stiff martinis, and lots of premium wines by the glass lure diners to this dinner house darling with the feel of a Craftsman home. Prime beef is king, but you also can get a huge Aussie lobster tail. Desserts are classic berries and cream, and chocolate souffle cake, so you can concentrate on your surf ’n’ turf. Lunch is hearty sandwiches and huge high-quality salads. Just save us a seat on the charming patio. 2441 E. Coast Highway, 949-673-6585. $$$ CDM RESTAURANT The team behind much-loved A Restaurant pounced on the defunct Crow Bar, retooling it with scraped light-wood floors, peacock-blue velvet booths, leather chairs, and a freestanding, always-busy bar. The kitchen takes on seasonal, contemporary American fare. Think a trio of unexpectedly sublime pizzas. Ethereal Parker House rolls. A killer Niman Ranch pork chop. 2325 E. Coast Highway, 949-287-6600. $$$ EL CHOLO It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style

enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $ FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth enterprise, an inspired collaboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restaurant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$ FIVE CROWNS O.C.’s beloved, vine-covered, fine-dining landmark of 1965 stays current thanks to a refreshed menu by executive chef Alejandra Padilla (formerly with Hillstone and Patina groups). Foodies thrill to foie gras brûlée and roast goose with wild grains, but sumptuous feasts of prime rib retain a hallowed spot on the carte at this Lawry’s-owned institution. As always, service is polished and accommodating. Leave room for the righteous sundae made with C.C. Brown’s hot fudge, an old Hollywood marvel. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-760-0331. Dinner only. $$$ SIDEDOOR Nested within the landmark Lawry’s Five Crowns, this gastropub welcomes come-asyou-are diners with a changing daily menu of imaginative small plates, seasonal soups, prime rib sandwiches, potpies, and desserts. Don’t miss the charcuterie station with choice cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Always interesting wines by the glass, craft beers, and signature cocktails boost the inviting room’s jolly British vibe. 3801 E. Coast Highway, 949-717-4322. $$ TACKLE BOX Pretty little Corona del Mar State Beach has a yearround chow counter, thanks to Pasadena native and chef-owner Brian Huskey, a veteran of “Top Chef” season 11. Look for an affordable menu of daytime eats that includes avocado-smoked salmon tartine, chilaquiles with black beans, and even an ace Buffalo cauliflower for beach body vegetarians. Weekend lunch includes star Maine lobster roll on squid ink bun. No booze, but there’s always a house-made agua fresca. 3029 Shore Ave., 949-723-0502. $

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Orange Coast magazine - December 2021

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A Helping Hand