Orange Coast Magazine - December 2022

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DECEMBER

80 YOUR HOLIDAY GUIDE

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for expert wrapping advice, or hoping to skip cooking this year and dine out, we’ve got plenty of tips to help you celebrate the season.

96

SNAPSHOT

Huntington Beach artist Judith Hendler made her statement in high-end fashion in the 1980s. Now she’s focused on keeping young people engaged with art and bringing it to the community.

BY THERESA WALKER

98 WHERE HOPE LIVES

Project Kinship o ers support—and o en a first chance— as alternatives to street life.

BY LISA WHITTEMORE

Photograph by Andrew Hart

“Sherman Library & Gardens and South Coast Plaza are places of beauty, quality, and community, so we are delighted to partner on Nights of 1000 Lights (pictured below).”

—DEBRA GUNN DOWNING, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, SOUTH COAST PLAZA

COLLECTOR

the holiday season with sweet treats and home goods.

FOOD TRENDS San Clemente’s new bars o er transporting decor and drinks.

MY O.C. The county’s stretch of PCH brings serenity when it’s needed most.

PHILANTHROPY The Dragon Kim Foundation honors a love of life, music, and community spirit.

STATS A retired couple turns tourists into humanitarians.

DINING GUIDE Our minireviews, plus single-origin co ee from Freelance Co ee Project

PERSON OF INTEREST San Clemente skateboarding pro Ryan Sheckler

WEB EXTRAS

Cathy Thomas hosts Bill Bracken in her kitchen to talk about his generous spirit, particularly at this time of year. orangecoast.com /cathythomas

A roundup of Christmas tree lots in O.C. orangecoast.com /christmastrees

Check out photos from the Balboa Craft Beer Festival. orangecoast.com /galleries

ADVERTISING SECTIONS IN

Style Home

Industry Expert Q&A: Mai Haddad of Westminister Teak 52-62 Trends

Real Estate All-Stars

Listings 106-107 Michelle Q. Linovitz / Villa Real Estate 108 Susie McKibben / Villa Real Estate 109 AJ Olson Whitfield / Villa Real Estate 110 Rebecca Anderson / Surterre Properties 111 Tony Maniaci / Engel & Völkers 112 Lucia Honda / First Team Real Estate 113 Stephanie Lowe Group / Compass 114 Hailey Potok / Compass 115 Sharon Grimes / Berkshire Hathaway 116 Thomas C. Santoro, CFP and Nathan Allen / Crane Real Estate

Kimia Vakili / First Team Real Estate

Abby Corpodian / Redfin

Paula Aragone / First Team Real Estate

Denine Kerns / Douglas Elliman

Albert Soto / First Team Real Estate

Spyro Kemble / Surterre Properties

Chris Kwon / Compass Real Estate

Lewis / Coldwell Banker

’ve always loved this time of year: the decorations, companionship, and festivities. When I was in my 20s, I threw a holiday party at my new apartment overlooking the ocean. I planned for a month and prepped for a few days. Neighbors marveled that I had time for a skate along the strand before guests arrived. Just barely, as I made the mistake of trying to make everything from scratch—even the eggnog! Not a smart choice; it would have been better to buy it. Better still would be to enlist a catering company, but be sure to avoid the pitfalls many encounter (Page 90). That celebration was successful enough that it became an annual event. Our family has hosted many years of holiday parties, and I learn something new every time: better ways to decorate, timesavers for bites and drinks, saying “Yes” when invitees o er to bring something, and more. Of course, there are also moments in the preparations, when the chores get overwhelming, that I think “This is the last time!” Then the pandemic blew up our traditions, and the 2019 holiday party really was the last one. I miss the festive spirit, the guaranteed opportunity to see our friends together, and the cozy feeling of the house when it’s full of loved ones catching up.

If you’re ready to get back into the swing of a party, we’ve rounded up advice from all sorts of experts including tips on what Champagne to buy, how to navigate delicate conversations, ideas for locally made gifts, and where to focus your energy (Page 80). For those who want to dine out for the holidays or celebrate New Year’s Eve, we’re suggesting some places to go and things to do. And when it all seems too much, we’ve o ered ways to relieve stress here in Orange County and treat yourself to some serenity. I hope you enjoy the season!

MS. ALAN GIBBONS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AGIBBONS@ORANGECOAST.COM

MY FAVORITE THINGS IN THIS ISSUE

There’s no be er time to visit Santa Fe than during the holidays when the town is at its most charming.

PAGE 22

The month is full of amazing events such as Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Kandace Springs, holiday panto, and Winter Fest.

PAGE 28

Who knew San Clemente had so many spots to enjoy innovative cocktails?

PAGE 72

An artistic eye, generous spirit, and passion for life: I want to be Judith Hendler when I grow up. PAGE 96

The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom will help you go from delicious inspiration to memorable meals in a space that truly reflects the way you want to cook, live, and entertain. You’re invited to tour, taste, and test-drive with our team of dedicated product specialists and on-site chefs.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Alan Gibbons

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Andrew Hart

SENIOR EDITOR

Astgik Khatchatryan

STYLE & HOME EDITOR

Chelsea Raineri

DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR

Colette Nguyen

DINING CRITIC

Gretchen Kurz

PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily J. Davis

EVENTS EDITOR

Robin Jones

COPY EDITOR

Shayna Sobol

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Jacob Castro, McKenna Sulick, Raya Torres

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Benjamin Epstein, Lauran Lansdon, Rosalia Rodriguez Mattern, Greg Nagel, Daniel Pearson, Laura Saari, Valerie Takahama, Cathy Thomas, Barbara Neal Varma, Theresa Walker, Lisa Whittemore

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Rachel Idzerda, Martha Nippert

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PEOPLE PLACES

IN PLAIN SIGHT

’HOODS

SOUTH FOR THE WINTER

Pick up tasty takeout, gear up for the slopes, or pamper yourself in SAN CLEMENTE. by Robin Jones

For more on San Clemente and its new bars, see Page 72.

CHELAS MEXICAN KITCHEN

This popular Mexican restaurant relocated from Laguna Niguel, drawing a new crowd of devo tees with its burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. Hungry diners can try to finish the El Macho bur rito stuffed with steak, chicken, refried beans, rice, guacamole, and cheese, or dig into simple street tacos in the charming dining room, complete with a plant wall and patterned black-and-white tile floors. 1011 AVENIDA PICO, 949-542-4606

THAI PALACE

Locals frequent this spot to get their Thai food fix, and the menu includes everything you’d expect: summer rolls and Thai-style fried chicken wings, pad Thai and pad see ew, and eight curries. But there are plenty of dishes for more adventurous eaters, including a whole deep-fried fish, and duck three ways. Most customers get takeout, but there are a few tables inside and out. 1021 AVENIDA PICO, 949-369-1819

BELLAGIO NAILS & SPA

Walk-ins are welcome at the friendly salon specializing in gel nails and acrylics. Customers can relax in the massage chairs lining the walls as they get ped icures (starting at $30) or sit at one of the tables in the middle for manicures (starting at $22) featuring multicolored crystals, glitter, or even holidaythemed nail art. The salon also offers eyelash extensions and waxing services. 1041 AVENIDA PICO, 949-369-1626

SOCAL SURF SHOP

Much more than a surf shop, this family business stocks a huge selection of snow boards, skateboards, and, yes, surfboards, along with all the associated gear, from gloves and goggles to board shorts and wetsuits. You can also have your skis and snowboards repaired and get expert advice: Owner Paul Durant was a pro fessional snowboarder and passes his knowledge on to his employees. 802 AVENIDA TALEGA, 949-388-7663

SANTA FE

History and tradition beckon at this time of year. One of the most charming cities in the West—particularly during the holidays—and the oldest capital city in the country, Santa Fe provides a place to wander museums, shops, art galleries, and restaurants all on foot. Ditch the car and stroll the Plaza, its surrounding area, and Canyon Road to see local customs on display—particularly the luminarias or farolitos: candles in small paper bags anchored by sand that line sidewalks, rooftops, gardens, and more.

LARGER THAN LIFE

A must-see for fans of the iconic artist, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is just a few blocks from Santa Fe Plaza. A new exhibit, “Georgia O’Keeffe: Making a Life,” opens Dec. 8 and celebrates her way of living. It features books, artist’s materials, clothing, fur niture, and more to give visitors a closer look at how she curated her own style and life. Get tickets ahead of time, up to 30 days in advance, as the museum sells out around the holidays ($18 and up).

CENTRAL SPOT

Nearly everything in Santa Fe centers around the Plaza, the central gathering space that welcomes locals and tourists.

It’s especially delightful this time of year: every tree decked in colorful lights; strings of red chiles called ristras hanging about as a sign of welcome; and, if you’re lucky, a light dusting of snow covering the whole scene. Boutiques, restaurants, and gal

ABOVE Canyon Road is just one part of Santa Fe that lights up during the holidays.

PERFECT GETAWAY

Savor the spirit this holiday season with glorious lore. by Alan Gibbons

SEASON OF WONDER

LEFT Awardwinning pies and friendly locals are the draw at Upper Crust Pizza.

RIGHT Bishop’s Lodge provides the perfect retreat up on a hill.

leries surround the area, and it’s anchored by the Palace of the Governors, the building dating to 1610 designated a national historic landmark, which houses the New Mexico History Museum. Native American artisans sell jewelry and other wares on the walkway right outside.

SOUTHWEST HOSPITALITY

Just a few blocks from the Plaza, Eldorado Hotel and Spa provides an easy place to relax. Rooms feature local art, and some include kiva fireplaces and balconies ($178 and up). The lobby is warm, welcoming, and dressed up beautifully for the season, plus there’s a hot chocolate bar every evening. Fix a cup with your favorite flavors and take in the sunset, or head to Paxton’s Taproom for more adult offerings, including 30 local beers on tap.

COMFORT FOOD

For a laid-back, comforting meal with locals, head to Upper Crust Pizza on Old Santa Fe Trail.

In business for more than 40 years, this award-winning spot serves traditional favorites and novelty pies that spotlight the area’s flavors such as green chile. Take it to go or grab a chair at the warm indoor tables where you just might spark up a conversation with a nearby guest.

HILLTOP GETAWAY

To escape the bustle of the city’s center, make the short drive to luxurious Bishop’s Lodge, an Auberge resort perched on 317 acres. Pamper yourself in rooms with large soaking tubs, kiva fireplaces, and balconies that overlook the valley ($810 and up). The property lights up at the holidays with thousands of farolitos or luminarias—different regions of the state use certain terms— welcoming you upon entry. For dinner, head to SkyFire restaurant for shrimp empanadas with chimichurri ($19), hatch green chile risotto with mushrooms and egg ($30), or a dry-aged wagyu with yellow pepper puree ($55).

THE HEART OF ART

Santa Fe has long been a haven for artists, and Canyon Road spotlights that spirit with blocks full of galleries that invite meandering. More than 80 galleries live within the half-mile stretch, and walking up and back offers a peek at the art and secret gardens. When you’re ready for dinner or a cocktail, pop into El Farol, a legendary spot that features unforgettable flamenco shows Thursday through Saturday nights.

MIND-BENDING WORLD

Meow Wolf combines adventure, a supernatural experience, and immersive art all in one. Two other locations opened last year, but Santa Fe’s House of Eternal Return is the original, and many still flock to partake in all its enchantment. From light shows to performance art to secret spots and music made with pipes, more than 70 rooms hold hours of engagement for everyone from the smallest children to the most intrigued adults ($20 and up).

Dec. 24: Farolito Walk on Canyon Road. The event begins at sundown when thousands of the li le lanterns light up the iconic spot. farolitowalk.com

BACKSTAGE LEGACY

The Cal State Fullerton professor emeritus from Corona del Mar is beloved by former students for his warmth and humor. As a backstage wizard, Zeballos has helped actors portray Knott’s Scary Farm monsters, Charlie Chaplin, South Coast Repertory’s first Ebenezer Scrooge, and scores more. Now he has tales of his own to tell.

Ge ing his start in theater

Ú I came to this country as a foreign student from Bolivia. I came to study electrical engineering, first at Orange Coast College and then Cal State Fullerton. At Orange Coast College, I started taking some theater classes. Then when I got to Fullerton, I started taking more. So I did about a year more engineering. I was in my third year. Then I realized, that’s not my world. My world has to be theater.

Learning tricks of the trade from

the masters

Ú I had great teachers. One of them passed away recently, Dwight Richard Odle. He was a designer at South Coast Repertory and the Laguna Playhouse. I would call the important makeup artists in the industry like (seven-time Oscar winner) Rick Baker, the Burman brothers (“Star Trek”), John Chambers (“Planet of the Apes,” “Star Trek”). Sometimes they would say, “Come over and I’ll show you.” I swear all these people really helped me. Any problem I had, I’d call them, and they were so open and available.

Creating thrills and chills at Kno ’s Scary Farm for two decades

Ú In 1973, Kno ’s Berry Farm started to do the Halloween

Haunt. I was working there as a technician, and they figured, we need makeup, and we have this guy here, so let him do it. That’s how it started. Then it got bigger and bigger and bigger. Suddenly, we had 60 makeup artists, and we were doing hundreds of makeups in three hours.

Designing award-winning costumes for Molière’s satirical “Tartu e” at Santa Ana’s Alternative Repertory Theatre in 1993

Ú We got together with the director one night, and she had the idea: “These people are all trying to hide something; what if we did it all in underwear?” Then for Tartu e, I thought, what if under the underwear, he has a studded leather codpiece and a ta oo—a cross on his bu cheek. The actor was totally into it. The first night, Tartu e pulled down his shorts and the audience laughed for 10 minutes. That year, it won best costume design from the Los Angeles Times

Working on “Chaplin,” a musical wri en by and starring Anthony Newley, at The Music Center (in L.A.) in 1983

Ú Tony Newley wrote quite a few musicals, like “Stop the World, I Want to Get O .” In “Chaplin,” he appears as himself telling a story, and then he goes around behind the set, still

talking, and he appears as the old Chaplin, and then he has to appear as the young Chaplin, and then for a few seconds as the Li le Tramp. The changes had to be done in seconds. Once, Tony said to me, “Oh, Abel, I’m too old for this.” I said, “Tony, you wrote it.”

The process of ge ing to opening night

Ú You have to love this

business, otherwise it’s very hard, because you give up so many things. I missed so many birthdays, weddings. But I also love the process to get to that opening night. Even if it’s a bad production or things didn’t turn out the way I expected, it was still OK because you always learn something. And the next time, you don’t make the same mistakes.

Theatrical makeup, hair, and costume designer Abel Zeballos’ five-decade career has left its mark on Orange County. by Valerie Takahama

Same Game, Different Uniform

Bennett Sperber and Hector Romo have been working for Modern Woodmen of America as Managing Partners for over ve years. They started their careers as Financial Representatives, serving personal clients and businesses throughout southern California. After a year of working as Financial Representatives, both knew they wanted to transition into leadership and build a team that would give them an even greater reach in their communities.

The competitive drive in both Bennett and Hector started early on when they both found a love for soccer at a young age. Eventually the two made their way to the University of California, Riverside to play on the men’s soccer team (2010-2014). Shortly after their soccer careers ended, their careers in nancial services began.

Now, Bennett and Hector lead a group of Financial Representatives in two of the largest o ces in the country in Ontario and Laguna Hills, respectively. Their mission in the business is to help mentor representatives to have successful careers, and together they all leave a lasting impact on the clients they serve. With economic uncertainty, businesses and individuals need more help than ever before. Our goal, as a unit, is to develop the most in uential, professional, and philanthropic Financial Representatives in the industry. Although we are now leading o the eld, our competitive nature remains within us. We reiterate to our representatives that the best way they can make a di erence with their clients is through consistent hard work and dedication.”

Bennett

Hector Romo MANAGING

EVENTS

DON’T MISS IN DECEMBER

“The Nutcracker,” boat parade, and other holiday happenings by Robin Jones

DEC. 1

A

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY CHRISTMAS

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy made its name as the house band in the 1996 cult movie “Swingers,” but the nine-piece band has been playing American swing and jazz in concert venues around the world since 1992. This show will feature classic holiday tunes and a few of the band’s Christmas originals from its two fulllength holiday albums. Irvine Barclay Theatre,

4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

DEC. 3 AND 7

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

In a church illuminated by candles, singers from the Pacific Chorale, accompanied by a pianist and organist, usher in the season with a selection of traditional Christmas carols. The audience is invited to sing along with select

ALL MONTH

WINTER FEST OC

The winter-themed carnival features a nightly tree-lighting celebration, snow flurries, and holiday performers. Visitors can also try the snowboard simulator, gliding across the outdoor ice-skating rink, playing in man-made snow, rid ing ice bumper cars, and indulging in seasonal sweet treats. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive., Costa Mesa, 714708-1500, winterfestoc.com

ed songs. Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, 2046 Mar Vista Drive, Newport Beach, 714-662-2345, pacificchorale.org

DEC. 4 ANDREA

BOCELLI

Over his nearly 30-year career, the Italian ten or has sung for sold-out crowds around the world, recorded 17 albums of classical and pop music, and earned five Grammy nominations. Bocelli will perform songs from his latest al bum, “Believe,” as well as his most popular love songs and traditional holiday music. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-7042500, hondacenter.com

DEC. 8 THROUGH 30

“WONDERFUL WINTER OF OZ: A HOLIDAY PANTO”

In this take on “The Wizard of Oz” from Lythgoe Family Panto, Dorothy is transported to the world of witches and munchkins by a blizzard, rather than a tornado, on Christmas Eve. The family-friendly holiday show is based on the British tradition of pantomime, and audience participation is encouraged. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

DEC. 9

MAVIS STAPLES AND KANDACE SPRINGS

Staples is a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and three-time Grammy Award win ner. The R&B and gospel singer started her career with the Staple Singers, her family’s band, and began performing as a solo artist in 1969. Vocalist, pianist, and songwriter Kandace Springs will open the concert. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

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DEC. 10 THROUGH 24

FESTIVAL BALLET THEATRE: “THE NUTCRACKER”

Choreographed and directed by Festival Ballet Theatre’s artistic director, Salwa Rizkalla, this version of the classic fea tures some of the top young dancers from around Southern California per forming alongside the company’s pro fessional dancers and world-renowned guest artists. The preshow tea party in cludes visits from some of the ballet’s fa mous characters. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 714-309-1280, festivalballet.org

DEC. 14 THROUGH 18

114TH ANNUAL NEWPORT BEACH BOAT PARADE

Adorned with thousands of lights, sea sonal decorations, and even special ef fects, the boats taking part in this annual nautical parade cast a festive mood over the spectators along the waterways and the people onboard. Homeowners along the parade route also get in the spirit, festooning their houses with extrava gant decorations. Starting and ending at the tip of Lido Isle, Newport Beach, christmasboatparade.com

DEC. 9 THROUGH 18

AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE: “THE NUTCRACKER”

More than 100 performers spin and leap across the stage to Tchaikovsky’s famous score in this version of the holiday ballet, choreographed by ABT’s artist-in-residence, Alexei Ratmansky. Clara’s dreamscape of toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes, fairies, and royal mice features sets and costumes by Richard Hudson, who won a Tony Award for his work on “The Lion King.” Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

DEC. 9 THROUGH 23

“FANCY NANCY SPLENDIFEROUS CHRISTMAS”

It’s Christmas, and ebullient grade schooler Nancy sells a few of her gowns and accessories so she can buy a sparkly new tree topper—but things don’t turn out exactly as she planned. This family-friendly show, appropriate for kids

4 and older, is funny and sweet, just like the bestselling books it’s based on. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com

DEC. 11

CHITA RIVERA

The Broadway legend, who originated the roles of Anita in “West Side Story” and Velma Kelly in “Chicago,” is a three-time Tony Award winner and was the first Latina to receive a Kennedy Center Honor. She’ll perform num bers from her most famous roles, along with

songs from shows such as “Sweet Charity,” “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” and “Bye Bye Birdie.” Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714556-2787, scfta.org

DEC. 15 THROUGH 17

THE BROADWAY HOLLYWOOD HOLIDAY SONGBOOK

Actress and singer Kerry O’Malley—who has appeared on Broadway in “Billy Elliot,” “Into the Woods,” and “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas”—joins TV, film, and stage actor

DEC. 18

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

The family-friendly event features free art workshops and other activi ties for kids, live music, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Arts and crafts, food, and drinks will be for sale. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714-738-6595, themuck.org

Aaron Lazar to highlight the best holiday songs from movies and Broadway shows. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

DEC. 15 THROUGH 18

“IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE”

Rather than simply putting the classic Christmas film on stage, this show takes George Bailey’s story and reinvents it as a live radio broadcast from the 1940s. A small cast narrates the tale, as guardian angel Clarence helps George understand why the world is a better place with him in it. The show is pre sented in partnership with STAGEStheatre. Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, 714990-7722, curtistheatre.com

THROUGH DEC. 18

SAWDUST FESTIVAL WINTER FANTASY

Transforming itself for the season, the summer favorite o ers handcrafted artwork, jewelry, ceramics, and sculpture on grounds decorat ed with sparkling ornaments, garlands, and lights. Musicians, carolers, puppeteers, and daily visits from Santa provide the entertain ment. Sawdust Festival Grounds, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-494-3030, sawdustartfestival.org

DEC. 20

ALTON BROWN LIVE

The creator and host of Food Network favor ites “Good Eats,” “Good Eats: Reloaded,” and “Good Eats: The Return” fills his two-hour stage show with cooking, science, and music. He also mixes in his signature dry sense of humor that fans of “Cutthroat Kitchen” and “Iron Chef America” know well. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714556-2787, scfta.org

THROUGH DEC. 23

“LITTLE WOMEN”

This new musical version of the beloved novel by Louisa May Alcott follows sisters Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy as they come into their own while their father is away fighting in the Civil War. The stage show retains all the drama,

romance, heartbreak, and humor of the original. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com

DEC. 27 THROUGH JAN. 8

“TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD”

Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel was a huge hit on Broadway from the mo-

ment it opened in 2018, garnering nine Tony Award nominations. The play diverges from the book, switching the focus from Scout to her father, lawyer Atticus Finch, as he prepares to defend Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of rape. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

DEC. 22

“NOCHEBUENA:

CHRISTMAS EVE IN MEXICO”

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

DEC. 31

RITA RUDNER: “IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE NEW YEAR’S”

The comedian and Laguna Beach resident, who has also worked as a TV and Broadway actress, screenwriter, and playwright, hosts this seventh-annual New Year’s Eve show. At the end of the show, audiences can watch the ball drop in Times Square and toast to the end of 2022. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com

MORE NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS ON PAGE 93

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Nail fungus is unsightly, and it can effect you both physically and psychologically. Studies show that the majority of people with ‘onychomycosis’ report a decrease in their quality of life due to embarrassment. Most people are discouraged when using over-the-counter creams and medications that are ineffective. The Nailcur™ program is guaranteed to kill fungus, restore the nail, and keep fungus away. Dr. Ivar E. Roth created the proprietary 4-Step Process which combines:

pecialized Laser Treatments eticulous Nail Care aily Maintenance Kit ail Vitamins and Antifungals

Mitchell Stokes Brian An Evening with

Two-time Tony Award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell performs a dazzling concert of classic standards and soaring showstoppers from his celebrated career.

In a strip mall on 17th Street in Costa Mesa, you’ll find Goodies—the popular brand’s first O.C. location, which was selected based on an Instagram poll. Inside, customers are struck by the bright marigold-colored walls; the color is reminiscent of a robe that owner Rhea Carise wore when she studied alongside monks. The large island in the center of the store displays handmade home decor items, often grouped in sets of three, Carise’s favorite number. “Everything is ethically sourced, and 80 percent of our products are from Southeast Asia, mainly Indonesia,” store manager Anthony Beltran says.

Most of the items are made from olive wood, marble, ceramic, and teak, including a popular ladder that Beltran recalls waiting in line for at the store’s first location. “Some people waited eight hours just to get the ladder,” he says. The store also carries woven baskets, candles, tote bags, and more. There are stunning pieces such as an organic teak bowl for just $18. “I enjoy the interactions I have with customers,” Beltran says. “They think it’s such a cool concept for a store. People always say, ‘We’re going to come back during the holiday season,’ because it’s perfect for gifting since everything is $25 or less.”

333 E. 17th St. Costa Mesa goodies.la

Lets celebrate

Excitement abounds at The Covington during the holidays. It is a time for residents and their families to relish in the season – all with the majestic Saddleback Mountains as a backdrop. From gourmet feasts to extra-special holiday events to stunning seasonal décor, this luxurious enclave of Aliso Viejo is a lovely place to celebrate the season.

FINDS

THE ’ 80S

Give a nod to the era of excess with these pieces. by Chelsea Raineri

Duo gloves, $770, Hermès, South Coast Plaza, 714-437-1725

Beret, $510; tie, $510; belt, $1,200; skirt, $4,300; jacket, $2,800; top, $750; boots, $1,690; tights, $290; Gucci, South Coast Plaza, 714-557-9600

Zebra-print singlebreasted brocade jacket, $4,945, Dolce & Gabbana, South Coast Plaza, 714-668-9142

Aknvas O’Connor vegan leather straight-leg pants, $495, Intermix, South Coast Plaza, 714-754-7895

Punk-buckle mule in Welsh red and silver, $990, Alexander McQueen, South Coast Plaza, 657-205-4477

Saint Laurent 80s Vanity grain de poudre quilted shoulder bag, $1,690, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 949-759-1900

Thanks for voting us #1 in service!

California, you’ve never seen anything quite like this.

Walk through our doors and you won’t believe your eyes. Everywhere you turn there’s more. In fact, a typical store carries 8,167 unique wines, 4,874 unique spirits and 2,693 unique beers. Sure, we have unbeatable selection and prices, but we bet you’ll keep coming back for unrivaled service. Plan your visit at TotalWine.com

The first thing you notice at Total Wine & More is the unbelievable selection. That’s because everywhere you turn, in every aisle, there’s— well, more. But believe this: A typical store carries 8,167 unique wines—with up to a quarter of a million bottles on the shelves—4,874 unique spirits and 2,693 unique beers.

WISDOM

FROM

a tree farm

owner THE

FARM …

It’s been a Christmas tree farm for more than 50 years; we’ve had it for more than 15 years. It’s one of the few left in Orange County. We actually grow the trees in ground and have about four to five years’ worth of crops. We can only grow two kinds because of climate (in Southern California), and we also bring in other types from our grower in Oregon. My father,

who is 75 years old, works the farm, and we have a 10-year-old daughter, so it’s all hands on deck.

FAVORITE PART …

We see families come from when they’re newlyweds to a couple years later and she’s pregnant, and now they’ve got the kids coming. Seeing the families grow and becoming a part of a family tradition, that’s the really special part.

ON THE MARKET

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

$17.5 million Dana Point

7,421 square feet

8 bedrooms

10 bathrooms

Enjoy the ocean view during holiday celebrations.

Of note: Host guests in one of eight bedrooms and entertain them in the spacious living room and 12-seat theater.

15 Beach View Ave.

Seth Nelson, 949-463-0360

FOR CUSTOMERS …

If they come to the farm, they’re going to experience walking through a eucalyptus grove that we light up. They can walk the fields of our homegrown trees. Inside the barn, we have Christmas music playing and all kinds of merchandise. We have farm animals, too.

Tanya Farmakis and her husband own Farmakis Farms in San Juan Capistrano, where customers can select a live tree to have cut down.

AT HOME WITH...

BUNGALOW J

This storefront features pieces made by women around the world. by Chelsea Raineri

Kimm Jones opened Bungalow J in San Clemente in 2020. Not only does her shop carry home decor products that are hard to find elsewhere, such as handmade stoneware from Tunisia, but she also o ers interior design services. Celebrate the holidays with Bungalow J and other shops during the city’s Puttin’ on the Glitz event Dec. 3.

How did you get into interior design?  I was an interior designer ever since I was a kid. When my mom wasn’t home, I would rearrange the furniture in the house and switch bedrooms with my brother and sister. It kind of just came naturally to me. My mom was very creative and talented, and we always lived in a beautiful house, but I tried to put my own personal touch on it.

How did you start Bungalow J?  I’ve had my own design business for the past 20 years. Bungalow J was actually the name of our first beach house. When it came time to name the store, there really was no other name. It was my brainchild for a couple of years, but when we moved to San Clemente, I knew this would be the place we’d live and I’d open my business. I decided to do that, and it turned out to be the first year of COVID-19. The community supported us, and that’s how we made it through. We’re lucky, and I’m super grateful for that. We have people from all over the world who have been to our store.

Tell us about the products you carry.  One of the concepts of Bungalow J is that we buy from women in villages all over the world. We’re a women-supporting-women business. It’s always amazing to me that people who have the fewest resources make the absolute most beautiful products, and I’m proud to carry them in the store. We have stu from Africa, Morocco, India, Spain, Bali, and more. We don’t normally reorder things, but when something is a

THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL

Experience the holidays in Newport Beach from its most remarkable vantage point.

Secluded within 504 acres of breathtaking natural landscape, The Resort at Pelican Hill combines awe-inspiring holiday grandeur with seamless access to iconic local attractions like the Christmas Boat Parade, light displays at Sherman Gardens & Library, Crystal Cove TreeLighting, Fashion Island, and more.

22701 Pelican Hill Road South, Newport Coast, CA 92657 (888) 507-6427 | pelicanhill.com

great staple, we will continue to buy it. It’s important to me as an interior designer, and as a local to San Clemente, to bring something totally new and fresh. They’re not things you can buy on Amazon or that other people carry; it’s important to also have a global view about things. There’s a whole global market out there that I want to make people aware of. What’s your favorite aspect of interior design?

 It’s the people you work with who make the project super fun. Putting together a beautiful living space for people brings me great joy because I think everybody should live well. And it doesn’t have to be expensive. You just want to surround yourself with beautiful things, and you want to choose things intentionally. 145

Bungalow J customers find items with a global air that aren’t available elsewhere.

INDUSTRY EXPERT Q&A INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGN

Q

What

do you want readers to know about Westminster Teak?

A As the name unmistakably implies, Westminster Teak is all about teak furniture. Our unrelenting commitment to fine craftsmanship and passion for timeless design has been the narrative and hallmark driving the company forward over the past 27 years. More than just a company that designs, manufactures, and distributes premium teak furniture, we pride ourselves in being an environmentally conscious company. As teak furniture is the primary offering of Westminster Teak and plantation teak is the essential raw material, we are by default a green company – we believe it is not only critical as a manufacturer to be environmentally responsible by using teak from sustainably harvested plantations but also to be socially responsible toward both the indigenous people working in the plantations as well as the skilled artisans and employees working in our factories.

Haddad Westminister Teak

Showroom location

1350 South State College Boulevard Anaheim, Orange County CA 92806

westminsterteak.com

Q What makes your products unique?

A Craftsmanship, design, performance are essential characteristics that set us apart. We are probably one of the very few, if any, companies in the industry that provide a Lifetime Warranty for our furniture. Craftsmanship and good design play an integral part in a well-made piece of teak furniture. We make products that will endure over time, season after season, year after year, long after the trends are forgotten.

Q Are there any trends in teak furniture buyers should be aware of?

A Product knowledge is key in understanding the investment value proposition a beautifully crafted piece of teak furniture brings. Look for quality in the materials used and how they are put together. Inspect the underside for the finish and workmanship. You can tell if a product is well designed when it not only looks good, both in its esthetics and craftsmanship but feels right when you sit in it.

Q How do you provide exceptional customer service?

A As a company, Westminster Teak is not only passionate but fanatical about customer service. We may sell premium quality furniture with great design and craftsmanship, but it is our exceptional customer service that had been the driving force, fundamental in our building our brand.

Mai

with Mai Haddad

Discover the MAGIC MAYA of

1 Westminster Teak

The Maya Collection is a modular deep seating sectional system for both outdoor and indoor environments. The pieces can be configured in multiple variations, allowing for endless possibilities of configuration and dimension. Make it your "go-to" place to sit with a friend, or gather with the family, for serious conversations or deep contemplation. Your place to think, read a book, take a nap, or simply do nothing at all! 844.446.0001 westminsterteak.com

2 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

We like to call this look industrial farmhouse!

We combine the edgy rugged lines of iron with traditional white oak treads. The open stair tread creates a modern twist to the traditional staircase.

714.536.6942 gaetanoinc.com

4 MIKII’S ON DEL MAR

Treats For Santa

Hand-painted ceramic Santa's cookie plate comes with reindeer treat bowl, personalizable "Dear Santa" card and pencil.

949.503.3326

San Clemente

Instagram @MikiisOnDelMar

3 Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Inc.

5

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

6

Superior Tree Care

Sheltering Shade

Mature trees add greatly to the beauty of your property, giving it solid character and quiet charm. When it comes to the health and beauty of your trees, call on a company you can trust. 714.502.0226

superiortreecare.net

7 Cantoni

Creative Interiors Start at Cantoni

Cantoni offers a comprehensive range of design services from space planning and furniture selection to interior finishes and custom designs, plus expert assistance from their seasoned designers to create thought-provoking and inspiring modern spaces. 949.585.9191 cantoni.com/stores/orange-county

8 PIRCH

Creating a spa-like experience in your home bath is more achievable than ever. There are many new products now that take the shower, tub, or even the lowly toilet to new heights. A rain shower system like the one shown here from Dornbracht is just one example. Click the link below to see more spa bath products. Visit any of our 7 Southern California locations to see them firsthand.

pirch.com/create-your-home-spa

Costa Mesa | 949.429.0800

Mission Viejo | 949.220.0656

Laguna Design Center | 949.704.0050

Pirch.com

9 Pacific Shore Stones

Non-toxic surfaces, natural materials

Countertops made with a range of solid natural stones, marble, wood, and metals are preferred for non-toxic surfaces and contain many useful, long-lasting attributes. Some materials must be sealed regularly with non-toxic sealers. Also, there are variations in many beautiful and unique colors.

949.536.5055 pacificshorestones.com

10 Bazaar del Mundo Shops

Overflowing with treasures and unique gifts from around the globe, the Bazaar del Mundo Shops in Old Town San Diego delight guests from near and far with a rich array of handcrafted folk art, handwoven textiles, vibrant home and garden accessories, one-of-a-kind collectibles and so much more.

Celebrating more than 50 years in business, owneroperator Diane Powers and her long-time staff continue to carefully curate Bazaar del Mundo’s selection of merchandise that pays homage to the globe’s most distinctive cultures. Whether you’re a local, or visiting from out of town, a stop by Bazaar del Mundo is more than a quick shopping trip – it’s a tour around the world! 619.296.3161 BazaarDelMundo.com

11 SOCO + The OC Mix

Tune in to an all-new season of SOCO’s Masters of Design!

Now streaming online, the destination is covering all things OC Mix - Orange County’s first food hall and artisan market, known for its constantly evolving and exciting “mix” of foodie-favorite concepts, maker-driven retail, and one-of-a-kind finds.

3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626 socomastersofdesign.com

INI RISTORANTE

You’re saying it wrong,” says the friend I invite to join me for a test drive of busy, buzzy Ini Ris torante in Fountain Valley. “It rhymes with deny, not teeny.” Like me, you’ll learn why later.

Booked solid since opening in June, Ini weaves Japanese flavors and ingredients into classic Ital ian fare. This atypical mashup was successfully attempted more than 15 years ago in Cypress by the enduring Cafe Hiro. But here the menu is shorter, the setting is hipper, and legit cock tails are expertly mixed with the good stu . Ini is the latest production from Kei (pronounced key) Concepts, the burgeoning restaurant group conquering Fountain Valley with several distinct, thriving ventures that include Nep Café, Gem Dining, and Kin Izakaya. Helmed by founder and chef Viet Nguyen and partner Neo Du, the group serves it all, from strawberry matcha lattes to Prime tomahawk steaks, brunch to dinner, com fort food to deluxe fusion. Ini joins siblings Vox Kitchen and Kin Izakaya in the sprawling Foun tain Valley Town Center.

Dishes are predominantly Italian with Jap anese flourishes that delight, not ba e. Think branzino with yuzu beurre blanc or a giant rib eye with wasabi peppercorn sauce over orzo. Nothing outlandish: In some cases, such as the calamari fritti, the dishes are 100 percent Italian. And the cocktails, they’re 100 percent excel lent. Consider one to sip while you absorb the menu’s novelty, especially on your first visit. Nine signature drinks have your cravings cov ered, though the bar is well stocked for anything simpler. Kyoto Fashioned stars roasted teainfused whiskey for an assertive Old-Fashioned over block ice. Vibrant but balanced, the house

LEFT Clockwise from le : duck ragu pappardelle, tru e cheese bread, melon and prosciu o salad, and the GemIni cocktail, with bourbon, scotch, egg white, and more RIGHT Lights in the tree provide a lovely vibe.

Negroni’s gin is steeped with figs. Tru e cheese bread is a worthy, shareable foil for boozy drinks—a mound of toasted bread cubes mortared with fluffy truffle-scented ricotta and a veil of grated mozzarella. Driz zle the cubes with that hot honey served on the side—it boosts simple bread from sleepy to spellbinding. It’s awfully messy to decon struct. Next time I’ll request chopsticks. Hama chi crudo and beef carpaccio are worthy raw starters, with beef having the slight edge thanks to the novelty of tru e cream and onion ponzu squiggles.

Two salads that achieve always-order status are easily shared: melon and prosciutto, and burrata caprese. Sweet, truly ripe watermelon (later, Tuscan melon or persimmon) reveals the kitchen pays attention, precisely adorn ing the luscious fruit with prosciutto ribbons, yuzu crème fraîche, and crushed hazelnuts. The caprese’s unctuous burrata is flooded with a sluice of halved cherry tomatoes, honeyed yuzu,

16129 Brookhurst St. Fountain Valley 714-277-4046

5 BEST DISHES

’Melon and prosciutto salad

’Truffle cheese bread

’Chicken curry pizza

’Duck ragu pappardelle

’Butter cornbread dessert

PRICE RANGE

Small plates, $8 to $26 Large plates, $18 to $125

Desserts and cocktails, $7 to $16

FYI Only cards are accepted for payment.

Fierce desserts and winning fusions delight in Fountain Valley. by Gretchen Kurz

and fragrant fresh basil.

Of several small plates, fried calamari with too-heavy breading was a letdown, but not so with the mini skillet of soft, piquant meatballs in rich marinara—as good as any from my favorite Italian joints. Of course there’s pizza with a winning crust. Among the fusion options, mildly spicy chicken curry was instantly likable, but the “poke” pizza with octopus, shrimp, corn, and seaweed salad was an odd marriage for this rice lover. Pasta options include a baconflecked udon carbonara thick with miso cream and a solo egg yolk for mixing in. House-made pasta elevates two conventional dishes—a lush duck ragu pappardelle and the hefty sausage cavatelli that could use a hit of brightness. Two deluxe entrees are available only at dinner: lamb rack with sweet potato puree and Prime ribeye with stir-fried vegetables and orzo.

Desserts are fierce. Citrus panna cotta

is silky-bright. Dark hazelnut cake is soft and gooey in all the right places. Vibrant strawberry sorbet includes juicy macerated berries. Butter cornbread, a trickedout warm butter cake with popcorn ice cream, gets my vote for top last course. Each bite contrasts with the next, fueling a frenzied race to the end if you share, fair warning.

Light from expansive windows and skylights fills the restaurant all day, and a looming tree is sparkling statement decor after dark, lit by many fairy lights. Din-

ner is dependably booked these days, so don’t drop in after 5 p.m. Once tables are full, the room’s noise borders on torturous. Daily lunch is a handy workaround— only the three priciest dinner entrees are missing from the menu. Or reserve for late afternoon, before the kitchen switches to dinner at 5.

I classify Ini as a recipe concept— front-loaded with R&D to perfect recipes that will be precisely executed repeatedly ever after. No nightly specials. No boldface media darlings as chefs. But heavy on reassuring consistency. Add knowledgeable servers and a welcoming, few-frills setting and, voilà, a revenue machine similar to flourishing haunts such as Bandera, Nick’s, and Caló Kitchen.

And the name Ini? No, not like tortellini. Ini as in Gemini, a nod to older sibling Gem Dining. I still stumble over that one, but Ini isn’t stumbling one bit. It’s one of this year’s strongest debuts.

Chicken curry pizza

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

5

2

1 LILY’S

GINGERBREAD

LANE

Seal Beach

Decked-out gingerbread houses are sure to wow guests ($80).

lilysgingerbreadlane.com

AREO

Laguna Beach

This enamel tray set is perfect for holding drinks, books, or holiday treats ($196). areohome.com

3 SUNFLOUR COOKIE CO. Trabuco Canyon

The DIY cookie kit comes with eight cookies, sprinkles, and four icing colors ($25). thesun ourcookieco.com

4 DATEOLATE

Costa Mesa

Sweetened with 90 percent dates, these chocolates are a healthier alternative to traditional candy ($35). dateolate.com

HOUSE OF MORRISON

Costa Mesa

Decorate with neutrals such as a Thanksgiving bowl with a lid ($22) or winter-edition Brandied Pear candle ($35). houseofmorrison.com

HERE’S LOOKING AT YOU!

New bars in San Clemente offer transporting decor and drinks. by Benjamin Epstein

For more on San Clemente, see Page 20.

The disarming setting at intimate bar JANE includes Italian chinoiserie wallpaper, an 1880s French reception desk, and a 1950s Austrian crystal chandelier. The stylish Girl Grey cocktail— tea-infused gin, Gentian amaro, yuzu, and egg white—arrives in an antique crystal cup and saucer; ask for it whether it’s on the list or not. A hub for whiskey lovers, Jane offers several flights and collaborates on its own single-barrel four-grain bourbon with Blinking Owl Distillery. It shares a kitchen with the highly regarded Cellar restaurant; eats include rotating flatbreads and a Prime petite filet. 158 AVENIDA DEL MAR, 949-388-3051, BAR-JANE.COM

Journey to the Goon Docks and embrace your inner pirate at THE LOST INFERNO , the new “Goonies”-themed tiki room from partners Leonard Chan and Dominic Iapello. There’s a life-size mermaid skeleton in the “ship,” a waterfall in the “grotto,” and Asian-inspired bar bites in both. Though there’s plenty of rum in the hold, the star cocktail might be the Chester Copperpot, a spicy tequila tiki drink served flaming in a surfing monkey. The pair’s previous concepts include the Blind Rabbit in Anaheim and the late Stowaway in Tustin. 425 N. EL CAMINO REAL, THELOSTINFERNO.COM

The ceiling at diminutive Japanese speakeasy MOMOKU NO USAGI —also from Chan and Iapello, up a flight of stairs from the Lost Inferno—is a sea of colorful umbrellas. Vintage Japanese magazine covers featuring women’s faces cover the walls. SUSHI, spelled out in huge illuminated red letters in one corner, alludes to crispy nori hand rolls served at the long bar and at tables along one wall. Cocktails such as the Chrysanthemum with dry vermouth, Bénédictine, and absinthe fascinate. Seating is by reservation only and limited to 90 minutes.

425 N. EL CAMINO REAL, MOMOKUNOUSAGI.COM

The high-desert vibes of the original LANDERS LIQUOR BAR in Costa Mesa now seem a warmup for the eye-popping Wild West and motorcycle themes at its new South County location. Colorful art and objects rim the perimeter; there’s a huge central octagonal bar; and outside are murals and ocean-view tables. The Bandito with Adelita añejo tequila, Peychaud’s bitters, and grapefruit peel serves as faithful scout or sidekick for the Western burger. The merchandise alone—e.g., bolos, belt buckles, boots, and “Ride Dirty” tanks—is worth a visit. 1814 N. EL CAMINO REAL, 949-503-4100, LANDERSLIQUORBAR.COM

BY JENNIFER WALES, COURTESY OF JANE

Charleston Provence Boutique Holiday Special Gi with $50 Purchase

Saturday, Dec. 3 10am – 5pm 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. Please visit us for our annual customer appreciation on Dec. 3 from 10am-5pm and receive a kitchen towel with your purchase of $50 or more. Call us at 714-508-8581 and follow us on facebook and instagram to stay up to date.

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

Have yourself a Handmade Holiday and celebrate the joy of unique gift giving! On Saturday Dec. 3 and Sunday Dec. 4 (12-5pm) Chemers Gallery will host its 4th Annual Holiday Artisan Faire. 18 artisans will be in attendance with a variety of hand-crafted jewelry, wearable fiber, ceramics, glass 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!

For more information call Chemers Gallery 714-731-5432 or visit chemersgallery.com.

O.C. Scene

Orange Coast took over The Park at Lakeshore in Irvine for the annual evening of whiskey tasting, savory bites and sweet treats in celebration of the new location for Bosscat Kitchen & Libations and TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar. Guests were able to sip on some classic favorites and explore new brands while getting their whiskey glasses engraved by Alex Hirsch from Signs of our Lives, checking out El Canito Cigar rollers or hydrating with Mountain Valley Spring Water. The evening helped raise funds for The Golden Rule Charity who has been our charitable partner since the very first Orange Coast whiskey event.

Special thank you to the team at Bosscat, Lakeshore Irvine, Vintage Gold Rentals, Larson Lighting, and 1 Audio Visual.

Visit orangecoast.com for party pictures & more events!

WHISKEY BRANDS

Photos by Ron Levy Photography

Season 3 exclusively with Passport

Stream Now with

Calm on Coast Highway

On restless days, I grab my keys, back the car out of the garage, and head for some open road—Bolsa Chica to Warner and a burst of fresh ocean air as I make the left turn past the iconic Jack-in-the Box and head south on PCH.

Driving Orange County’s Pacific Coast Highway, from its northernmost point in Seal Beach, close to where I live, to San Clemente, has always calmed me. The

beauty along the coast inspires me to rise above whatever weighed me down. With shades of the cerulean Pacific on one side and una ord able real estate on the other, PCH has been the setting for some of my greatest escapes.

As a high school student in O.C. during the ’80s, Friday ditch days inevitably had me loading other tru ant friends into my baby blue VW Bug. In those times before manda tory seat belt laws, gangly arms and legs piled in the car as some sat dou ble and others crouched on the floor. We’d set our sights on another care free day in the California sun. I’d pass the hat around for gas money. Someone in the front seat searched for Rick Springfield on the radio. The big questions of those days were, how far can a Volkswagen get on $2.85? And Huntington State or City Beach? If there was an open spot on PCH, we parked for free during those golden days before the city put in sidewalks and meters.

Once I parked my Bug a little too far o the road on PCH and Beach Boulevard. The tires got stuck in the loose, dry sand near one of the oil drills that dotted the shoreline. The wheels spun fruitlessly, kicking up sprays of sand. A couple of surfers in wetsuits saw my predicament, stuck a piece of driftwood under my back tire, and pushed my car to more solid ground. Their rescue was per formed so e ortlessly that the guys picked up their sur oards, caught the next WALK sign, and settled in the ocean before I could unload my beach bag.

On a 90-degree day in May right before finals, my best friend, Cris

The county’s stretch of PCH brings serenity when it’s needed most. by Rosalia Rodriguez Mattern

tina, and I skipped our afternoon classes at the local community college. We followed the siren call of PCH and ended up at Bolsa Chica Beach. We spread out blankets, applied sun screen, and slipped on our knocko Ray Bans. Finals in anatomy were the next day. Cristina pulled a lab packet out of her beach bag. I reached into my straw tote for a large glass jar, sim ilar to the ones on the bottom shelves of grocery stores filled with dill pick les. Our recycled jar contained a pre served sheep heart, the one we’d been dissecting all semester. With sheep heart in hand, we quizzed each other for hours while working on our tans.

“Find the aortic valve.”

“Locate the muscle striations.”

Looking up at the cars whizzing by, I felt sorry for those passengers. Life was so good, and they were missing it. When we checked our sheep heart back into the biology department the next day, no one noticed the crystals of

sand embedded in the cardiac muscle.

MANY YEARS LATER, I WAS A married mom of two. When my husband, Todd, and I could find a babysitter, we’d make our way to Pacific Coast Highway in search of respite, even if just for a weekend. I’d long since traded my be loved VW for a minivan, with a sunroof at least. We popped it open and let the wind seduce us into thinking we were teenagers again. Sometimes we’d drive aimlessly down PCH, ticking o the cit

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

ies—Sunset Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach—until we found just the right bedand-breakfast. More often, we’d endure the Friday afternoon tra c to catch a reservation made at a hotel along the coast. When my hubby would complain about all the other cars and the constant red lights, I’d point to the west.

“Shut up and look at the sunset.”

PCH is choked with tra c, especially at sunset. It seemed a small price to me, to have Mother Nature remind me that the world was big, my problems small,

PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS

CITY OF HOPE ORANGE COUNTY’S HOPE GALA

The evening was highlighted by a transformational gift of $25 million from Julia and George Argyros which will help advance City of Hope’s mission to deliver world-renowned research, treatment and cancer cures to Orange County. Along with inspiring words of City of Hope grateful patient, Leslie Bruce Amin and a special performance by Grammy-nominated recording artist Nick Jonas, the gala raised $2.3 million through our combined efforts, which will advance our mission to deliver world-renowned research, treatment, and cancer cures to residents in Orange County.

DURING THE EARLY DAYS OF THE PANDEMIC, MY DAUGHTER AND I ... DROVE PCH TO FEEL HUMAN AGAIN. ... DRIVING PCH THAT AFTERNOON RESTORED OUR SANITY. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN WEEKS, WE DID SOMETHING “NORMAL.”

Photos Courtesy of City of Hope Orange County

and that all would work out in the end. Her advice was free to anyone who cared to travel the coast and gaze upon the horizon.

LATER, WHEN MY PARENTS were in their 80s, I drove them to ap pointments at Hoag hospital in Newport Beach. Going there, we’d take the free way; but when the doctors visits were finished, we had the luxury of driving home on PCH. My parents loved watch ing the water as we drove north.

“It reminds me when I was younger and would go to Batangas Beach in the Philippines,” Mom would say. Then Dad would crack a joke about her enticing beachwear, and Mom would reach into the back seat of the van to slap him across the head. Every three months, a visit to the doctor, the same stories about beaches in the Philip pines, the same mock slap, laughter, and the same glorious drive on PCH.

Driving the coast was like a time machine, and I could see my parents young again.

During the early days of the pan demic, when we were relegated to our homes and yards, my daughter Angela, now in her 30s, and I hopped in her Prius and drove PCH to feel human again. We traveled for more than an hour, noting which beaches were packed with people and which were deserted. Eventually, we stopped in Dana Point at the gazebo on the blu . We laughed as we pulled down our cloth masks and lapped up the outdoor air like thirsty dogs taking in water. Driving PCH that afternoon restored our sanity. For the first time in weeks, we did something “normal.”

A few months ago, my father passed away after a brief battle with cancer, on hospice for only three weeks. One day, the shock and loss felt particularly unbearable. Again, I turned to PCH for solace. I grabbed the car keys and

O.C. Scene

PROMOTION

backed the car out of the garage, driv ing Dad’s car, desperate to be close to him. Down Bolsa Chica to Warner and south along the coast. I rolled down all the windows and let the ocean wind take away my breath and hoped it would take my tears as well.

I don’t remember the tra c or even the sunset from that drive. I know I snapped out of my grief halfway through San Clemente and made the U-turn to come back home. My head remained in a fog until I got to New port Boulevard, and the familiar turn o from Hoag hospital appeared.

The air in the car became thick with memory. I heard the familiar back-andforth between my parents.

“The water reminds me of the beaches back in the Philippines.”

“It reminds me of your sexy bathing suits.”

And for a few more glorious miles along Coast Highway, my dad’s mischie vous laugh once again filled the car.

PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS

6TH TASTEMAKERS OF ORANGE COUNTY

More than 20 local chefs united for the 6th Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) Tastemakers of Orange County fundraising event in the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. This year’s chef-driven culinary event, which was held in conjunction with OCAPICA’s 25th anniversary, raised $260,000 to benefit OCAPICA’s numerous programs and services in mental health and health, youth development, housing assistance, policy education and anti-Asian racism throughout Orange County.

Photo Credit: Phuc To

YOUR holiday GUIDE

Whether you’re hosting a party, trying to navigate family dynamics, looking for expert wrapping advice, or hoping to skip cooking this year and dine out, we’ve got plenty of tips to help you celebrate the season. We’ve even included five ways to de-stress and unwind now or later.

by JACOB CASTRO , ALAN GIBBONS , ANDREW HART,

ASTGIK KHATCHATRYAN , COLETTE NGUYEN , CHELSEA RAINERI , MCKENNA SULICK , and BARBARA NEAL VARMA

Bright and Beautiful

The annual boutique at Roger’s Gardens is not to be missed.

What do you get when you combine a winter wonder land with Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory? The Christmas Boutique at Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar. Every year, the lavish holiday event lets guests pick scrumptious ornaments and other festive treats right o the trees. No golden ticket needed.

“As you walk into our boutique, you get a sense of tradition and togetherness,” says Nava Rezvan, di rector of marketing and public rela tions. “I think that’s what brings a lot of people back here throughout the years—all the memories they have of prior family visits. They love to bring their children and immerse them selves in the spirit of Christmas.”

The annual boutique o ers holiday shoppers unique decor procured from artisans around the world. Storyboards describing the items and their makers are peppered through out the space. “When you’re shop ping for ornaments or tabletop items, there’s a story that goes right next to it for our guests to read,” Rezvan says. “It makes them fall in love with their selections even more.”

This year’s theme is Bright and Beautiful. Shoppers can expect to see 17 decorated trees plus wreaths and greens grouped by color themes and

dressed in a thousand styles of hand made items. For those who want something a little more on-trend, the venue o ers modern motifs as well as traditional holiday decor. “We have a wide assortment of di erent items in stock,” Rezvan says. “That makes it really fun to shop and to see the displays.”

Food, drink, and respite are found at Farmhouse restaurant, known for its farm-to-table cuisine. The eatery also has a Disney connection: In the mid-1970s, Roger’s Gardens acquired Disneyland’s original Magnolia Park Bandstand and used it for Christmas shows, Santa visits, and more. Now it serves as a special place to dine within the restaurant.

Rezvan says it’s all about the senses: “We’ve got sights, sounds ... the scent of fir trees in the air. We’ve got music with Lil’ Dickens Carolers strolling around the store. It’s just a very sensory, magical experience.”

OTHER OUTDOOR O.C. HOLIDAY EVENTS

NIGHTS OF 1000 LIGHTS

Sherman Library & Gardens 2647 E. Coast Highway Corona del Mar thesherman.org 949-673-2261

HOLIDAYZ AT THE PARK

Great Park, Irvine cityofirvine.org/great-park 949-724-6247

CASA LUMINA HOLIDAY WALK

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens

415 Avenida Granada San Clemente casaromantica.org 949-498-2139

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ROGER’S GARDENS

HOW TO: Plan a Party

Alesha De La Cruz of De La Planning shares tips on event planning.

THE MENU …

If you’re having a more casual feel, then you want to keep in mind things that people can eat while they’re chatting and walking around. If you’re trying to do a more formal party, then you would choose a plated menu. In that case, you would keep in mind dietary restrictions because they’re going to be seated and eating every course.

TYPES OF MUSIC …

I love the idea of live music for a holiday party: a solo guitarist or a saxophonist or something that is going to create a di erent vibe. People can watch and enjoy the music almost like it’s an activity.

ACTIVITIES …

I think white elephant is the most popular game, especially for a really big event where a lot of people don’t know each other. I’ve seen caricature artists at smaller events become popular. There’s a 360-degree photo booth that’s really popular as well.

photograph by EMILY J. DAVIS

THE VIBE …

I like to think about focusing on the five senses of your guests because a holiday event is an experience. As your guests walk in, you can have holiday scents or you can have really strongsmelling food cooking that’s going to bring them warmth and feel inviting. For touch, you can play with di erent textures like linens that are velvet. Sight would be decor, and sound would be having that live music. Think about how you want to portray those five senses to your guests so they’ll be immersed in the event.

COMMON MISTAKES …

Not having enough sta . If you are having a holiday event, as the host, you want to enjoy it. I think people can forget that and think they’ll handle everything. If you are cooking yourself, still have a service sta there so they can tend to the guests while you enjoy.

Shop Local

Gifts unique to O.C.

1. LUMBERJACK THERMAL HAT

$89, Melin, Laguna Beach, 949-549-4634

2. CUSTOM VANS ROLLER SKATES AT SURF CITY SKATES

Starting at $399, Surf City Skates, Huntington Beach, 714-655-2266

3. COUTELLERIE GOYON - CHAZEAU KNIFE SET

$500, Moulin Boutique, Newport Beach, 949-418-7633

4. LAUREN’S ROBE AND SLIPPER SET

$119, Business & Pleasure Co., Laguna Beach, 949-324-2939

5. BLUEBERRY AND STONEFRUIT JAMS AND WALNUT HONEY

$12 to $14, The Ecology Center, San Juan Capistrano, 949-443-4223

6. CHRISTMAS CITY MUSIC BOX

$90, Odin Parker, Rancho Mission Viejo

Not So Silent Night

T.J. Dawson, cofounder and director of Anaheim-based WestBeat, provides caroling entertainment for every kind of venue, from private house parties to the Disneyland Resort.

Tell us about your caroling group.

à We actually have two holiday groups under the umbrella of West Beat. Holiday Harmony is a six-piece group with a lot of variety in our repertoire. We do traditional, pop, jazz, gospel, rock, Pentatonix covers, Mariah Carey. And we have the largest costume collection so that we can cater to any event—’50s glam cocktail a ire, ugly sweaters, even custom things like dressing up like Whoville characters. On the other hand, Elite Holiday Entertainment is a traditional holiday quartet with just a li le sprin kling of contemporary music.

Who have you performed for?

à We perform all over Orange County

and beyond—Disneyland hotels, Downtown Disney, special events in side the parks. Also South Coast Plaza, Dana Point’s Holidays at the Harbor, Pelican Hill, as well as corporate parties for local companies such as Taco Bell and Voluspa, and, of course, private parties in homes.

Do you have a favorite carol?

à That’s tough because between our two groups, and if you include medleys, we have about 90 songs in our repertoire. If I had to choose, we do one called “This Is My Wish” and it’s mixed with “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” which really makes me feel like we’re carrying forward a positive spirit into the new year. But really my

favorite thing is what our expansive repertoire allows us to do, which is connect with the people listening. If we’re at a party and we see a li le girl in an Elsa dress, we can just start sing ing “Let It Go” and watch her eyes light up. Sometimes people request some thing like “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and they start weeping. And then we’re crying too because you don’t know, maybe they’ve recently lost someone. Music just has that ability to … touch someone in the heart.

How about your least-favorite song?

à (Laugh) I absolutely hate singing “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” The tenor part is really boring. If I have to sing that song one more time … but I understand it’s a necessary evil because it’s one of the classics, and it is a fantastic song. When introducing that song, I say, “Here’s a lesser-known song, you’ve probably never heard it before,” and then we go into that, and people always laugh. On the outside I’m smiling, but on the inside I’m defi nitely dying a li le bit.

HOW TO: Deal With Difficult Family

goal is to take care of ourselves. If they ever ask our opinion and we’re up for it, it’s OK to do that in a small, one-on-one se ing—not when there’s a big audience or when we’re about to eat and you can see a bunch of people being like, “Oh no, they’re doing it.”

What about negative comments on relationship status?

How do you handle politics at dinner?

à A very simple answer is to devalue and de ect. Your goal is to let them know that the topic is not OK without directly confronting them. “Devalue” means you (let them) know this isn’t the moment they’re going to try and convince you or you’re going to try and convince them one way or the other. Even if they’re being o ensive, remind yourself of what you do appreciate about them. And then “de ect”—talk about that thing you like about them.

You can say, “Wow, it sounds like you’re really passionate about that. I remember you’re also really passionate about that sports team. How are they doing?”

In that moment, they’ll probably switch (topics) with you. It’d be pre y odd for someone to continue to try and irritate you—unless they’re really trying to irritate you, and then maybe they just shouldn’t have been invited.

Our goal in life isn’t to change our family members in any way, no ma er how repulsive their thoughts are. Our

à You would then say, “It sounds like you really want an update on my life,” and you just go through and start saying all the things that are going on and don’t even answer that question.

If there’s anxiety about seeing family, what’s a positive outlook?

à Remind yourself that you have control over how your day is going to go, so you’re not going to let this person shake you. If you don’t give them that power to change your mood, your mood isn’t changed.

Michael Uram is a licensed marriage and family therapist. He gives advice on how to manage tricky dynamics during the holidays.

HOW TO: Wrap Like a Pro

Christine Backus, manager at Where’s the Party boutique in Costa Mesa, o ers tips on how to wow friends and family with gifts before they’re even opened.

Start early—whether you’re going to do the wrapping yourself or whether you decide to bring your gi s in for us to wrap. We have people bring us their gi s as early as September. But we can also accommodate those last-minute shoppers.

1

items for someone and you want them to be visible, place them in a basket and use clear cellophane wrap.

4

2

Have an idea of what your color theme or pa ern might be. An example of a theme might be “reindeer.” We sell lots of wrapping supplies here, everything from rolls of paper, gi bags, and boxes to every style of ribbon.

Have fun with it! Don’t be afraid to try something di erent, like adding accessories. If the gi is for someone who just had a baby, you can a ach li le booties to the package. Or if it’s for a newly married couple, add a wedding-themed Christmas ornament.

5

3

Choose the best materials for each gi . If it’s something heavy like a serving dish, you don’t want to put that in a gi bag because it can tear right through. Instead, use a box and wrapping paper so it’s really secure, and put a beautiful bow on it. Or if you have a collection of

If you don’t have time to shop, let alone wrap, we can do it all for you here. Just walk in and tell us who you’re shopping for and some things about them. For instance, if they like to entertain, we have a lot of beautiful home decor items, holiday pla ers, and charcuterie boards. And when you buy your gi s here, we wrap them as a complimentary service.

photographs by EMILY J. DAVIS

Cheers to Champagne

Todd Johnston, the Champagne and sparkling wine buyer at Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, o ers insight on a variety of bubbles.

CROWD - PLEASERS …

We call those Goldilocks Champagnes. There’s blanc de blanc versus blanc de noir, and a lot of them are the blends of the two. The Roederer Brut Collection 242 is their newest multivintage blend, and it’s their 242nd vintage. Another one I really like is the Bruno Paillard (Brut Premiére). The price point for both is around $50.

UNIQUE FLAVOR PROFILES …

We’re starting to see some Champagnes aged in unorthodox barrels. I do have one that’s aged in Sauternes barrels, a wine from Bordeaux. So you get all these tropical fruit things going on that you normally wouldn’t get. Even texturally, it is really rich—it’s dark in color, and that’s pretty unique. That is the André Clouet 1911, which a couple of years ago was my top wine of the year.

AGING …

There is kind of a misconception that Champagne does not age well. It actually ages very, very well, because of the high acidity. Dom P2 is a plenitude, and it’s a cycle of I think 12 years. And they age it with the lees (leftover yeast particles) in the bottle. The longer it ages, the more the yeast breaks down inside the Champagne and starts adding flavor. You get some of those older profi les and they’re nutty and they’re dark in color and really full-bodied.

HARD TO FIND …

There’s a legendary bottle of wine made by Krug: Les Mesnil. And I can get it, but not very many people buy it. If I get it in, I move it right away.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH CHAMPAGNE …

Fried chicken and Champagne is definitely a thing. I just read Dave Grohl’s book, and that’s a (Foo Fighters) tradition either after or before concerts to have Champagne and fried chicken. For me, I’m a really big fan of goat cheese. Mushrooms are very good with Champagne. And just about anything with pu pastry. Potato chips! Just plain potato chips. That’s kind of a thing, too.

Diebolt-Vallois Brut Rosé

Michel Turgy Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil Grand Cru

Jean Vesselle Brut Oeil de Perdrix

Louis Roederer Vintage 2014 Brut La Montagne

Drappier Quattuor Pascal Doquet 2008 XBT Coeur de Terroir Premier Cru Doyard 2008 Extra Brut Les Lumiéres Grand Cru Laurent-Perrier 2012 Brut Millésimé Pol Roger 2015 Brut Millésimé Vilmart & Cie 2016 Grand Cellier d’Or Premier Cru

Catering Pet Peeves

Local caterers share what irks them during their busiest time of year.

“(When people don’t) have a budget. It’s very frustrating for a chef or owner when we spend four hours on a proposal, hand it to someone, and they say it’s too expensive. So it’s best to make sure you have all your bullet points … because those people take the time to work on your event.”

LOUIS MANGINELLI , chef-owner of Saltwater Catering

“A time-consuming but necessary step is triple-checking every detail. Timing is everything, so making sure the food and plate temperatures are exactly where they need to be when being served is also important.”

AZMIN GHAHREMAN , chef and CEO of Sapphire Catering

“You’re always going to have customers with di erent taste buds, but you just have to make sure you accommodate them at the end of the day, even when they tell you something’s not right. That’s how the kitchen is. You have a lot of critics. It’s part of the job, and part of the excitement. That’s how I see it.”

LEO NAJERA , executive chef at Canyon Catering

“When we’re super busy with a lot of food going out during a large party, and there are guests in the kitchen surrounding us while we’re trying to work. It’s best to have the caterer in the garage where they can’t be seen, and it’s not as messy in the kitchen. That way, your guests feel free to move around.”

SHAHEN MOURADYAN , executive chef and founder of Gold Coast Catering

“There seems to be an uptick of dietary restrictions for guests. Clients will have a menu and then a couple days before the event, they get information from some of their guests that they have dietary restrictions. We want to make sure we can accommodate and that everyone gets a good meal.”

BRANDON HARRIS

, director of food and beverage at Jay’s Catering

“Truly last-minute changes. We like to ask our clients to have everything ready by a week before. We understand life happens, but to call us an hour before the event … it happens almost every weekend.”

RICO REVILLA , co-owner of Soho Taco

Holiday Dining

Celebrate the season at these Orange County restaurants. The best part? No cleanup!

HARVEST AT THE RANCH

Laguna Beach

Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Holiday dining includes a la carte seasonal dishes. For New Year’s Eve, the menu will include caviar, fresh local lobster, homemade tru e pasta, and a complimentary Champagne toast at midnight.

BONUS: Harvest is also o ering Pancakes with Santa on Dec. 18. Enjoy a sweet and savory breakfast menu, arts and cra s ac tivities, ornament decorating, and pictures with Santa. $60 for adults, $25 for children

BALBOA BAY RESORT

Newport Beach

Christmas Eve and Day, New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Christmas Eve and Christ mas Day bu et brunches are available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. $145 for adults and $75 for children. On New Year’s Eve, guests can partake of a four-course dinner with wine pairings for $325 per person. A erward, there’s a Studio 54-themed party ($195).

LAS BRISAS

Laguna Beach

Christmas Day, New Year’s

THE MAYOR’S TABLE

Newport Beach

Christmas Eve and Day, New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Chef Riley Huddleston has composed a four-course menu with wine pairings for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. $110 per person plus $60 for wine pairing, $55 for children. On New Year’s Eve, there will also be a four-course meal. The 5 p.m. seating is $110 per person, $55 for wine pairing. The 8 p.m. seating is $125 per person, $60 for wine pairing.

TOPSIDE

Newport Beach

New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Guests can enjoy cocktails, music from a DJ, and a midnight brunch bu et. $45 for general admission (includes one beverage) and $180 for VIP tables.

CAFE SEVILLA

Costa Mesa

Christmas Eve and Day, New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Three-course dinners: $65 per person on Christmas Eve and Day; $85 per person on New Year’s Eve

RAYA

Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Enjoy a coursed dinner on either holiday at Las Brisas.

Laguna Niguel

Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Raya will o er dinners with festive selections that fit each holiday.

BAYSIDE RESTAURANT

Newport Beach

Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Bayside will have live music, a prix fixe menu, and a la carte items.

BONUS: With free valet and self-parking, join Bayside before the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade.

BISTANGO Irvine

Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: Both holidays will have prix fixe menus, a la carte items, and live music.

SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Laguna Beach Christmas Eve

GOOD TO KNOW: The restaurant will have special hours on Christmas Eve: 4 to 8 p.m. The traditional menu will be available as well as holiday specials such as prime rib and holiday eggnog—homemade eggnog, rum, and bourbon.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL

Dana Point Christmas Day

GOOD TO KNOW: A Christmas bu et features prime rib and tandoori lamb, a caviar and raw bar, sushi station, and more. $250 per adult, $125 per child ages 3 to 9

HARVEST AT THE RANCH BISTANGO COCKTAIL PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HARVEST AT THE RANCH; FOOD PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BISTANGO

à NYElectric 2023

The newly remodeled Irvine Marriott Hotel is partnering with VIP Nightlife to host a New Year’s Eve party with multiple DJs, a four-hour premium open bar from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., two party areas, casino games, and a New Year’s countdown. Tickets start at $200.

à Gatsby’s House NYE

Trendy Pasea Hotel in Huntington Beach will celebrate the new year with a “Great Gatsby”-themed event from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Come dressed as a flapper or wear a vintage suit to invoke the roaring ’20s. Guests can expect open bars and music from DJs Peter G, Richard Wayne, and a special guest. Tickets start at $249.

à New Year’s Eve Yacht Party

The 20th-annual event is being held on an oversize luxury yacht, which departs Newport Beach at 9 p.m. and returns at

12:45 a.m. The party will feature a Champagne greeting as well as an open bar, a multiple-course dinner, favors, and more. Guests will have access to all three levels of the yacht: Level one will include the bar, lounge, and food stations; Level two will be the DJ and dancing area; Level three will feature an outdoor scenic deck. Tickets start at $169.

à Run in the New Year

It’s your last chance to fulfi ll this year’s resolutions by running a 5K, 10K, or a half-marathon in Huntington Beach. Each fi nisher will receive a medal. The event begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31. Registration starts at $40.

à New Year’s Eve with Chris Standring

If you’re a fan of retro-modern music, celebrate the new year and the 20year anniversary of Chris Standring’s debut album, “Velvet.” The show will

also feature soul-jazz performers Bob James and Mica Paris. The event will be held at Spaghettini Restaurant in Seal Beach and begins at 10 p.m. on Dec. 31. Tickets start at $125 plus $20 food/drink minimum.

à Salute to Vienna

Celebrate more than 80 years of tradition and start your plans early by attending the Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert at Reneé and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. The 3 p.m. show is a re-creation of Neujahrskonzert, an annual concert of classical music performed by the Vienna Philharmonic on the morning of New Year’s Day in Austria, and will be led by an expert conductor from Vienna’s golden age. Tickets start at $49.

à Rita Rudner: It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like New Year’s

Attend the seventh annual New Year’s Eve Party at the Laguna Playhouse and laugh along with legendary comedian and O.C. resident Rita Rudner. The event begins at 7 p.m. so that everyone can watch the ball drop on the East Coast at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $99.

HOW TO: De-Stress

Relaxing remedies, many new to O.C., will soothe your spirit and ground you after weeks of commotion.

1 REFLECT AND UNWIND

Meditation and wellness classes: The Susan Samueli Integra tive Health Institute’s new home on the UC Irvine campus is welcoming, serene, and full of health benefits such as the living wall decor and classes for the community. Mind fulness, tai chi, nutrition, and yoga sessions take place mostly online, but might be in person again in January. Hoag hospital also o ers online com munity wellness classes, including E ective Stress Management Tech niques and Mindful Mondays.

2 SERENITY IN SOUND AND STONES

Tranquility massage at Burke Williams: Nepalese singing bowls are added to this new massage to help induce calm ($280). The sound and vibrations from the bowls, which are placed on various parts of the body, combine to bring your body into a state of rest. Cranial holds to finish leave you totally at peace.

SPA VEA at VEA Newport Beach: The 14,000-square-foot spa got a refresh to match the resort, which

opened to guests in July after a full redesign. In addition to the heated saltwater spa pool, hot tub, steam room, dry sauna, and spacious locker rooms, there’s also a new outdoor lawn and yoga studio. The coastal escape massage ($249) fea tures hot stones to soothe tired feet after a season of plays, parties, and parades. Or try the VEA radiance facial ($249) to restore your glow for a special occasion. Day passes are available ($50 and up) if you simply need a spot to escape.

3 EAT YOUR RELIEF CBD Power Lunch at Knife

Pleat: Water-soluble cannabidiol is added to each dish in the threecourse lunch ($90) and combines with specific ingredients to provide benefits such as detoxification, increased focus, induced calm, mood enhancement, digestive support, and other features. Knife Pleat owners Yassmin Sarmadi and Tony Esnault—who o ered the CBD lunch at their previous restaurant in L.A.—introduced the menu at the South Coast Plaza penthouse spot

over the summer, and they use the CBD drops regularly. “I feel more clear,” Sarmadi says. “It evens my mood.” The pear tart—pâte sucrée, almond frangipane, brandied pear, and Indonesian pepper—promised calming and mood boosting benefits and provided a delightful conclusion to a fall meal. Between the elegant setting, the Michelin-star-winning fare, and the CBD additions, it’s hard to come away feeling anything but blissful.

4 GET ZEN IN THE GARDEN Programs at local gardens:

The Fullerton Arboretum o ers a curator walking tour in the evening for members as well as classes such as beginning bonsai. Sherman Library & Gardens has a lunch and lecture series, plus mosaic classes and family tours available this month. The first Sunday of each month is Family Sun day at Casa Romantica, with activities for kids. Find peace as you meander at your own pace around “California Scenario,” the Noguchi Garden.

5 BLISS AT THE BEACH

Visitors come from around the globe to experience the comfort of the ocean that we can take advan tage of year-round—and perhaps we take it for granted. Make your way to the nearest coastal locale to find har mony in the ocean’s waves, calm in the sand under your feet, and peace in our little spot of the world.

AN ART DYNASTY

Huntington Beach artist Judith Hendler has been creating her own path since she was a child. She gained national attention when her jewelry appeared on a 1980s TV show. Now she’s focused on keeping young people engaged with art and bringing it to the community. by Theresa Walker

Hendler made her statement in high-end fashion with big, bold acrylic jewelry designs. Her work sold at Saks Fifth Avenue and graced models in Vogue and Elle magazines. Actress Joan Collins super charged Hendler’s reach by wearing her pieces on the 1980s prime-time soap opera “Dynasty.” Now 81, Hendler keeps the creative juices flowing in the art studio at her Huntington Beach home. Her success underwrites annual gifts to a dozen social causes and arts organizations. She sees art everywhere. “It’s my belief art is the basis of everything. It is the chair you sit on, the spoon you use for your cereal, the switch that you turn on. It’s not just physics, it’s not just science. Somebody had to think how to present it to the public so that you’d want to use it.”

A streak of vibrant blue or purple in her graying reddish-brown hair testifies to her artistic sensi bilities. “Too often growing up, you had to have a blue sky and green grass. Well, I had a green sky and blue grass, and my tree was always at an angle.” Art became a passion at an early age as Hendler was stoked by an aunt whose paintings still hang in her home. When Hendler was about 7, California scene painter Dorothy Sklar—a friend of her mother’s— saw a tiny bust Hendler made in a clay class. “She looked at it and said to my mother, ‘Just let her keep making things. You don’t know about these things.’ ”

In retirement, Hendler focuses on her charitable work. She has worked closely over the years with Huntington Beach Art Center to sponsor and guide “Collage for a Cause” community gatherings that

engage people who might not think of themselves as artistic. “It’s important for people to be involved in the arts. Part of what I do is to let everybody know that they have creativity in them.” She provides col lage materials from her cache of art supplies and scraps that might include bottle caps, tea bag wrap pers, and other items most folks toss. She creates her own pieces in conjunction with those projects.

In 2017, a collage fundraiser for the homeless youth nonprofit Build Futures brought in $4,000, selling pieces made by ordinary people for $20 each. “A col lage is something anyone can do with a little coach ing and direction. People come in with that kind of hollow look in their eyes, and they leave with a little smile. I don’t think there’s any substitute for that.”

Her Judith Hendler Design Awards—three since 2020 in partnership with the art center—have high lighted the work of community college students, near and dear Hendler’s heart, as she attended Los Angeles City College. She provides the prize money and devises the rules, requiring use of recy cled materials to meet a design theme. Shoe-based artwork was featured in an “If the Shoe Fits” exhibit in the summer. Hendler believes the competitions fill practical and emotional needs. “It’s a way of say ing ‘Hang in there. This is worthwhile. You’ll make it. And here’s a little help along the way.’ If you let go of your dream, you have nothing.”

For 2023, Hendler is planning a collage-making project to raise money for the next in the series of exterior murals that Westminster High students are painting on classroom buildings. The brainchild of art teacher Daina Anderson, the murals are created under the guidance of a guest artist students invite to the campus. “I am so excited because here is a school willing to step outside of the box to support art, to bring an artist willing to work with the kids. How incredible is that?”

There’s a stubborn streak in me, especially when somebody tells me I can’t do something. You can’t give up. You have to say, ‘This is what I want to do.’

WHERE HOPE LIVES

Project Kinship o ers support—and often a first chance—as alternatives to street life.

by Lisa Whittemore portraits by Emily J. Davis

Atwo-story warehouse sits on Broadway in Santa Ana, tucked into a neighborhood that looks like something from a Dr. Seuss book. Bold, chunky townhomes painted in hues of rust, mustard, and pumpkin flank one side of the warehouse. Lanky palms and blooming magnolias frame the front. Cone-shaped pine trees creak and sway to the reverberations of the 5 Freeway that thunders away on the backside. The headquarters for Project Kinship are like a rustic, homey village plunked in the middle of a bustling city.

Project Kinship, a nonprofit founded in 2014 by Steven Kim and Mary Vu, works closely with Orange County schools, courts, health care agencies, and the surrounding community. Just like Los Angeles sibling Homeboy Industries, the group’s mission is “to provide sup port and training to lives impacted by incarceration, gangs, and violence through hope, healing, and trans formation.” Everyone involved with Project Kinship has either been in the criminal system or negatively impacted by it. They share the ex perience and have a vested interest in being part of a solution—to heal a community they once harmed.

Homeboy Industries found er Father Greg Boyle attributes di culties for people ensnared in the system to a “lethal absence of hope.” Project Kinship announces its message immediately at the o ce: HOPE LIVES HERE is emblazoned on the back wall in enormous block font. Raymond Garcia mans the front desk, meticulously logging every visitor. Diminutive in stature, Garcia nonetheless exudes a quiet power. His eyes are a vibrant turquoise. It’s obvious he takes great pride in doing a job he isn’t paid for.

“I did 46 years in prison, and I turn 74 this year,” Garcia says. “I knew that sharing my experiences

could give some insight, maybe even help the youngsters, but I didn’t know where to go.” Upon his release, Garcia recalls that he wasn’t doing anything he found useful. He wanted to give back to a community he had taken from. Garcia’s barber told him about Project Kinship. Within a few days, he went to his first meeting. “I wasn’t gonna share, just listen. Then the youngsters asked me, ‘What’s your story?’ I told them, and I hav en’t left since,” he says. “PK gave me a voice, a home, and a purpose. I love them for it.”

As Garcia tells his story, a young, disheveled man meekly opens the front door. His T-shirt is on inside out; he carries only a road-weary backpack. “I heard I could maybe get some food up here,” he says, with eyes downcast. “We don’t got much, but lemme see what I can do,” Garcia says.

He returns with chips, a steaming Cup Noodles, and a bottle of water. Hope does indeed live here.

Orange County-raised Steven Kim, a self-professed former “geeky Asian kid with a bowl cut,” experienced street life’s lure early and found himself tangled in the web of drugs and

PROJECT KINSHIP COMMUNITY CELEBRATION AND HANDBALL TOURNAMENT

STEVEN KIM

incarceration. By 1999, Kim realized the futility of the life he was leading and began his journey of recovery.

“I will never forget my last memo ry of being incarcerated,” Kim says. “I sat on a metal stool, holding a plas tic phone—a glass wall separating me from my baby daughter.” At that moment, the weight of his shame felt insurmountable, but it became his unrelenting catalyst for change.

Kim began by educating himself in areas where he believed he could make a di erence. He received a bachelor’s degree in criminology, law, and society from UC Irvine and a master’s in social work from USC. It was at UC Irvine that he first heard Boyle speak about dedicating your life to the community you’re from. From that point on, the two formed an unbreakable bond. A colleague at USC, Mary Vu, worked alongside Kim for the first five years,

constructing the base of Project Kin ship. The precepts of the fledgling foundation that Kim and Vu first developed are integrated into what the group is today.

Many people are first exposed to Project Kinship through the table outside the Intake and Release Center at the Orange County Jail. The group’s sta members are there weekdays from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. to provide information on an array of reentry services. If there are addiction problems, the group can locate a detox, rehab, or a sober-living facility. It can assist with mental health resources, California IDs, a bus pass, and more. Whatever the need is, if the sta members can’t fulfill it, they can guide the person to the right place. Most importantly, they meet people where they are, with no judgment or expectations. Availability is key—if

someone isn’t ready today, he or she might be tomorrow.

Kim has studied trauma and its e ects extensively, and now his focus is on creating and implement ing various forms of healing. He and the sta seek to knit together community members, behavioral health experts, and those who have experienced gangs, street life, or incarceration.

“You always hear about giving people a second chance,” Kim says. “But here, for some, we’re o ering a first chance. Many people come through our doors multiply margin alized—a parent is on drugs or in prison, there’s poverty, etc. They en ter this world feeling less-than and unimportant. How can we embrace these people, help them discover their value, and instill some hope for a future?”

There are no separate, enclosed o ces at the headquarters. The walls are glass. Everyone can see everyone doing everything. A long row of gigantic cardboard boxes lines a partition. On each box, there is a number scribbled in marker. “Donated prom dresses,” Kim says. He chuckles and points out that the

“How can we embrace these people, help them discover their value, and instill some hope for a future? ”

PROJECT KINSHIP STAFF SUPPORTING SCHOOL DISTRICT GRADUATION CEREMONIES

boxes stretch the length of the wall, then around the corner as well. Anyone who wants to go to prom will not be denied access due to lack of proper attire.

In addition to the resources Proj ect Kinship o ers, Kim stresses the importance of the welcome. “We roll out the red carpet for whoever walks through our doors,” he says, laugh ing. Then he adds, “Because people need to know their pain is under stood. That no matter what you’ve been through, we got you. And as we help and serve others, we, in turn, are touched and healed back.”

If Kim is the heart and soul of Proj ect Kinship, Director of Programs Madeline Rodriguez is the one who keeps that beat fast and steady. She describes herself as “just a brown girl, born in East L.A. with a big ol’ red heart.”

Rodriguez believes her past guided her toward community work, especially in the mental health area. “Like many people … I had trau matic childhood experiences,” she says. “But culturally, and as a Latina female, there is a huge stigma in talking about these things, so we just

didn’t.” Rather than turning to the streets, as some friends and family members did, Rodriguez focused on her faith and education.

Healing from trauma and public safety are the themes at Project Kinship. One of Rodriguez’s main roles is to be a representative in courtrooms, both juvenile and adult, and talk about what rehabilitation and reentry looks like. The courts, probation services, the partici pant, and Rodriguez collaborate to provide wraparound services. The passion she feels for her job is obvious, but when speaking about specific details her voice drops and her gaze is steady.

“If a juvenile is facing many years, we get together with the courts, using a trauma-informed approach, to create an alternative plan.” They partner with community colleges for education and work support. If mental health or rehab resources are needed, they provide that as well. “Then we continue to all meet as a team to track progress, understand their stories, and then help heal the existing narrative so we can write something di erent for them, for us.”

The essential part being devel

oped here is the joining together and participation of everyone in volved. “Steve Kim has always been tireless in his acts of service,” says Aquil Basheer, a community-based public safety specialist and author who has a long-standing personal and working relationship with Kim and the group. “He truly meets the needs of the people through service first, then leadership second. As an organization, PK sets the standards of what other groups, trying to achieve similar goals, should mea sure themselves by.”

Father Greg Boyle spoke at Project Kinship’s recent OC Public Safety and Re-entry Conference. Arms wide open, with a subdued intensity, he shares about standing at the margins and seeing people. He speaks of imag ining a circle of compassion where no one stands outside that circle and obliterating the notion of “us” and “them.” In his decades at Homeboy Industries, Boyle has witnessed firsthand that when systems change, people change, and people change when they are cherished. After a hush in the audience, more than 450 people stand up, clapping and hooting up roariously. Here, there is kinship.

A PROJECT KINSHIP STAFF MEMBER PROVIDES YOUTH MENTORSHIP.

STEVEN KIM AND MADELINE RODRIGUEZ

STOKING FIRE IN YOUNG PEOPLE

The people we met during the decade our kids attended the Orange County School of the Arts became like family. Our art school family was dis traught when we heard about the sudden death of a boy in my son’s grade, Dragon Kim. Kim and his friend Justin Lee were killed by a falling tree branch while asleep in the tent on a family camping trip to Yosemite. Our house was a hangout, and I remember many of Dragon’s friends walking

around here in a daze for some time.

That was seven years ago.

“Our lives were shattered,” his mother, Grace Tsai, told me recently. “We went around like zombies for a long time. We couldn’t even work.” Tsai, a Harvard graduate who got her MBA from Stanford and worked as a marketing executive at Aller gan, ConAgra Food, and Yahoo!, was unable to get out of bed to help their daughter, Hannah, get ready for school. I recalled Dragon’s dad, Dan iel Kim, saying at the time that every time they thought they’d cried all their tears, more tears came.

Tsai says they were sitting in the mortuary, picking out a casket, when a friend phoned condolences. “You have your whole life to mourn Dragon,” the friend said. “Now is the time to honor him.”

Dragon played the trombone with the lightness and dexterity of a pic colo. But music was only one aspect of his character, his mom says. He was a math and science ace, a great water polo player, and he was com mitted, from a young age, to helping others. Just before he died, he had put together a program with OCSA administration to bring instrumental music and donated instruments to low-income children.

So his parents and Hannah—now a junior at Harvard with an interest in becoming a documentary filmmaker— thought the best way to honor him was to make that program happen.

It’s an Asian tradition for people to donate to the family at the funeral, Tsai says, and her family used that money to bring music to 200 stu dents each year in Santa Ana.

The idea morphed into the Dragon

The Dragon Kim Foundation honors a love of life, music, and community spirit. by Laura Saari

Grace Tsai at the 2021 Dragon Challenge

Kim Foundation, which the Kim family created to inspire students to discover their passions and give back to their communities. The foundation has attracted several grants from major corporations. High school students are invited to design entrepreneur ial projects, and the winners receive grants of $5,000 to complete them. Winning teams get intensive leader ship training over three full weekends, must develop a project budget, and are connected with a business mentor.

The top three projects compete in September in the Dragon Challenge, run like “Shark Tank,” for a chance to continue their project with another $5,000. This year’s winners o ered health screenings, COVID-19 vac cines, and food distribution to lowincome families. Other projects have included a robotics workshop at a children’s hospital, an art show hon oring the unseen work of a Holocaust

survivor, sock dispensers for home less people, a tennis camp for autistic kids, and tech skills classes for older adults. This year, nearly 300 students applied from California, Arizona, and Nevada.

One of the winning projects came from Valencia High School in Placen tia—“Hoops and Coders,” a program that teaches confidence skills to young women through computer coding and basketball.

Angela DeCuir, mother of the win ning project director, says her daughter Gabrielle received “an MBA in a box” with the program, especially because she was given a mentor.

“I have learned so many business, marketing, promotional, and orga nizational skills,” Gabrielle says. She and her fellow project winner, Shrika Andhe, both juniors at Valencia, trav eled from computer to computer in a warm classroom, helping younger stu

dents develop individual apps.

“The coding is hard,” said 10-yearold Leila. “There’s a lot of buttons to press, a lot of words, and its hard learn ing how to connect them.” Leila was designing a storyboard that allowed users to choose a character and enter into that character’s story. “This class has helped me know I can believe in myself more. I kind of think when I grow up, I might even want to do cod ing as a job.”

The girls were able to find a host for their project as part of Higher Ground Youth & Family Services, a mentoring program for underserved youth. A few cubbies away, Suzette, 13, was creating an app to walk users through various sewing projects—a coin purse, a cushion cover, coasters. Suzette’s app teaches how to stitch and use tools, based on her two years of sewing experience.

“It’s not a hobby you hear much about anymore,” she says, noting that she wanted to start passing it on to a new generation.

Gabrielle says the training included public speaking exercises, which helped her become a better and more confident communicator.

The range of project ideas hascaused surprise among the judges. Tsai noted that today’s high school students are creative and entrepreneurial.

“The teenagers see how messed up our world is, and they have ideas about what they want to do, but they don’t have experience running a project team.”

I ask her whether committing herself so fully to the foundation has helped with her grief.

“To be honest, this is bittersweet for both me and Daniel,” she says. “We see how much Dragon would have loved his program, and sometimes it makes us miss him more. But sometimes, it also can feel good to that part of us that’s hurting.”

Gabrielle and Mayra in the Dragon Kim Foundation’s Hoops and Coders program

TAKE A SUITCASE, SAVE A LIFE

A retired couple turns tourists into humanitarians. by Lauran Lansdon

Afamily trip to Zimbabwe and a desire to connect on a deeper level to the communities they visit inspired Carl and Tara Eaton to start the first U.S. chapter of Canadian-based Not Just Tourists in 2018. By encouraging travelers to hand-deliver suitcases of medical supplies, the Eatons help clinics in developing countries and

reduce the amount of excess medical supplies going to U.S. landfills. Four years later, the operation has expanded to include medical and humanitarian missions, shipped 6,000 pounds of supplies to Ukraine, and assisted in starting five more U.S. chapters. “It’s simple,” Tara Eaton says. “Surplus supplies in donated suitcases and voilà! You’ve changed a life.”

HOW TO HELP

1. Complete the form at njt.net or contact the Eatons at oc@njt.net.

2. Pick up the supply-filled suitcase from a designated volunteer.

3. Check the bag. A fee might apply if you are over the airline’s bag limit.

4. Retrieve the suitcase. It does not need to be declared, but if someone asks, the suitcase contains an explanatory le er.

5. Deliver the suitcase to a clinic. The group can assist with arrangements.

received. Donations of supplies, suitcases, storage space, volunteers, and travelers are accepted instead.

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 “AllStars” 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.

These Real Estate All-Stars know their communities they serve better than anyone, and can help you find the home of your dreams.

REAL ESTATE ALL-STAR AGENTS

Aliso Viejo

Dave Castle

DRE # 1836161

Pacific Platinum Properties, Inc

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Abrams Coastal Properties

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Katrina Crane

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Coldwell Banker Realty

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Coldwell Banker Realty

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Coldwell Banker Realty

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MICHELLE Q. LINOVITZ

Coastal Orange County’s Most Trusted Realtor

Possessing the rare and requisite skills to excel in an extremely competitive marketplace, Michelle Q. Linovitz is a force to be reckoned with among coastal Orange County’s highest-producing realtors. Having represented more than $550 million in career sales and current representation of some of the area’s most exceptional property offerings, Michelle is a leader in the new generation of coastal Orange County’s luxury real estate professionals and is widely regarded as a trusted advisor by her industry colleagues and clients alike.

With a particular focus on the exclusive communities of Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, and Costa Mesa, Michelle applies over fifteen years of experience to consistently rank in the top 1% of realtors nationwide with sales achievements that have been recognized by many notable publications.

As a Newport Beach native and current resident of Corona del Mar, Michelle leverages her innate understanding of the area and its complex submarkets to better serve her discerning clientele. She employs a straightforward candorforward approach to benefit her clients by leveraging experience in ground-up projects, investment properties and design. Backed by the award-winning marketing, technology, and brand support at Villa Real Estate in Newport Beach, Michelle continues to set a new high-water mark in the real estate industry. If you are thinking of selling your home, Michelle would love the opportunity to sit down with you and discuss how she can work in concert to support you, your property, and deliver the results you deserve.

MICHELLEQLINOVITZ.COM 949 632 1618 | @MICHELLEQLINOVITZ MLINOVITZ@VILLAREALESTATE.COM | DRE No. 01864077

A Newport Beach resident and consummate professional, Susie McKibben represents clients seeking top-notch representation for the sale and purchase of residential properties throughout Orange County.

Susie brings notable business intellect to her practice at Villa Real Estate. Prior to real estate, Susie was a top-producing sales executive in the tech industry for 14 years. With a passion for real estate, she is committed to meeting clients’ needs with impeccable customer service

and high attention to detail. She works strategically, passionately and tirelessly to ensure her clients’ goals are met.

Susie earned a Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from the University of Washington. At Villa, Susie continues to apply her negotiation, sales and marketing aptitude to the maximum benefit of her clients. She lives with her husband, Justin - an Orange County native - and their children in the Eastbluff community.

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 Magna Cum Laude from USC’s Marshall School of Business, she worked alongside two of the highest-selling, most respected agents in Orange County, Evan Corkett and Steve High, at Coldwell Banker Previews International.

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Hailey Potok

Compass

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John Sturdevant

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Regency Real Estate Brokers

Brad Trager

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Ashley Harter DRE # 1838550

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Rebecca Anderson has been successfully selling residential and luxury real estate in Orange County for over a decade. She offers clients an undeniable dedication to finding them the perfect home in addition to a unique professional background that’s given her a comprehensive edge as a real estate agent in today’s competitive and technological marketplace. A longtime resident of the Port Streets, Rebecca has called Orange County home for the past 25 years. Extremely involved in the community's schools, sports, and charities, she possesses valuable neighborhood expertise and a passion for giving back to her community.

solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. Surterre Properties® DRE#01778230

Rebecca is honest and patient with an excellent network that opens doors to off-market opportunities.

Angela Creech

DRE # 1402249

Redfin Corporation

April De La Cruz

DRE # 1487519

Redfin Corporation

Michelle Fullbright

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Redfin Corporation

Kathy Gallagher

DRE # 1962073

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Jill Garland

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Dave George

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Heather Hill DRE # 1874459

HomeSmart Evergreen Realty

Ginger Huetsch

DRE # 1901143

Redfin Corporation

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DRE # 1754240

Redfin Corporation

Janice Konkol DRE # 815860

First Team Real Estate

Christoper Lardie DRE # 1929117

HomeSmart Evergreen Realty

Mary Ann Lawson DRE # 1972514

Redfin Corporation

Chris Lee DRE # 2107257

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Doris Lipscomb DRE # 789985

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Redfin Corporation

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Redfin Corporation

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Redfin Corporation

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Curtis Rodriguez DRE # 1716051

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Roya Saberzadeh DRE # 1707932

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Min Seo DRE # 1915127 Redfin Corporation

Phil Shinners DRE # 2039058

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LUCIA HONDA

First Team

Compassionate. Driven. Reliable.

Christine Stonger

DRE # 1967035

Redfin Corporation

Erica Tang DRE # 2063872

Redfin Corporation

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Jacky Tu DRE # 2151488

Redfin Corporation

Kristi Wright DRE # 1834110

Redfin Corporation

Ellie Yung DRE # 2035951

Coldwell Banker Realty

Being a top producer and having over a decade of experience in the Orange County Luxury Market, I am committed to my clients, not just during the transaction, but for life. With my background in education, I combine my love for the industry and education by creating lifelong relationships with my clients while providing them top-level services on the buying and selling process. I am with my clients every step of the way. With my expertise on the OC market trends, I have the knowledge and unwavering dedication to help people find the home of their dreams! From beginning to end, it is my goal that my clients receive the top-tier guidance and make the buying and selling process exciting and hassle free.

209 Avenida Del Mar, Suite 104 San Clemente, CA 92672 949.395.4375

LuciaHonda.FirstTeam.com

DRE# 01902556

LUCIA HONDA realtor

Jie Zheng

DRE # 1969518

HomeSmart Evergreen Realty

Laguna Beach

Chas. Aufhammer

DRE # 708774

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Rick Balzer

DRE # 329607

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Cora Berkery

DRE # 1415774

Coldwell Banker Realty

Shayne Bernstein

DRE # 2082490

Douglas Elliman of California

Judy Blossom DRE # 614494

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Charles Brickell DRE # 1271569

Compass

Kameron Brown DRE # 2021705

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Mary Beth Buckles DRE # 1165545

Coldwell Banker Realty

Brooke Chik DRE # 1990116

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Mark Christy DRE # 776546

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Kendall Clark DRE # 1994281

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Shauna Covington DRE # 991380

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Craig Delahooke DRE # 1942024

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Richard “Trey” Dewey DRE # 1988199

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Terri Flint DRE # 1419439

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Giulietta Fox Wilson DRE # 1180243

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Bryan Gerlach

DRE # 1906646

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Gabriela Haimes

DRE # 1277054

Coldwell Banker Realty

PK (Margery) Jenican DRE # 978582

Coldwell Banker Realty

Kimberly Karney DRE # 2037411

Douglas Elliman of California

Richard Mcintire DRE # 1013350

Surterre Properties

Ann Metzger DRE # 1456027

The Agency

Donna Pfanner DRE # 1501488

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Danielle Purcell DRE # 1063725

Team Laguna

Azita Sadeghi DRE # 1444611 Compass

Marcella Seidensticker DRE # 1987107

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Tony Maniaci Engel & Völkers Laguna Beach, Dana Point

312 Ocean Ave. Laguna Beach 949.558.7878 DRE# 01731183 tonymaniaci@gmail. com tonymaniaci-ca. evrealestate.com

Kelly Perkins DRE # 1932146 Compass

Melissa Sorensen DRE # 2008375

Compass

Victoria Strombom DRE # 886773

Surterre Properties

Kristine Torrance DRE # 1175513

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Therese Trinidad DRE # 904888

Surterre Properties

As the team lead of her eponymous group at Compass in Orange County, Hailey Potok’s dynamism spans real estate, entrepreneurship, family and community. With a background in marketing and sales for Fortune 500 companies, she brings a competitive edge to the industry where she’s developed a loyal clientele with many referrals and repeat clients.

An Orange County native, Hailey is very familiar and knowledgeable of all the local area information and has established relationships in the industry. Hailey graduated from University of Southern California, Deans list. Hailey, and her husband, are the proud parents of four beautiful children.

Hailey is one of OC’s top 1% of Realtors. She has been featured in many editorials such as: Riviera magazine “OC’s Dynamic Women”. The cover of “Real Producers”, Real Estate focused magazine July 2021. Along with being featured several years in a row in Orange Coast Magazine as a “Real Estate All Star”. Most recently top 1000 Tom Ferry “Americas best” Realtors. Hailey and her team, at “The Potok Group”, promise buyers and sellers to attain maximum exposure for their properties, with ease and e ciency. The home buying and selling process has never been easier.

HAILEY POTOK

The Potok Group

33522 Niguel Rd. Dana Point, CA 92629 714-878-0877 // ocforeverhomes.com Hailey.potok@compass.com DRE 02024094

Paul C.

My husband and I worked with Sharon this past summer purchasing a home and subsequently listed our home for sale. Sharon was a pleasure to work with. We would recommend Sharon as an agent I can’t say enough about Sharon. We asked her about the house we are interested in, she got it for us in the shortest amount of time. Both of us thank Sharon for going out of her way to get it done. This is the 3rd major transaction we do with Sharon in Newport Beach. Sharon helped me with a long term lease. She is honest, trustworthy and always on it! I love the memory of you coming over At 10 pm my first night in the home to fix the garage door! I would always want you on my team!

Lynn P. Camille R. Kristi B.

Eustorgio Villa

DRE # 1377262

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Laguna Niguel

Natalie Boyle

DRE # 1329012

Verso Homes

Kendall Childs

DRE # 1207714

Douglas Elliman of California

Nicole Cinquini

DRE # 1905299

Douglas Elliman of California

Ken Dembowski DRE # 1061678

REMAX SELECT ONE

Mark Elmasry

DRE # 1953918

Douglas Elliman of California

Pam Fecher

DRE # 1037846

First Team Real Estate

Suzanne Goldman

DRE # 1357839

Coldwell Banker Realty

Silvia Leon

DRE # 1319871

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Ivana Rusznak DRE # 1397152

Douglas Elliman of California

Leilani Serrao-Baker DRE # 1908226

Douglas Elliman of California

Dion Stallberg DRE # 1277771

Douglas Elliman of California

Elissa Vaught DRE # 1372033

Douglas Elliman of California

Lisa Weiner DRE # 1941135

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Long Beach Steve Leitner DRE # 1310869 Compass

Mickey Tameifuna

DRE # 1433036

Nationwide Real Estate Executives

Mission Viejo

Scott Arnott

DRE # 1217842 Coldwell Banker Realty

Cathie Berlin DRE # 1159745

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Suzanne Branson DRE # 1401642

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Stephanie Chapin DRE # 1147535

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Davin Emmons DRE # 1419145

HomeSmart Evergreen Realty

Kenneth Harter DRE # 1925098 The Harter Group

Lucia Honda First Team

209 Avenida Del Mar Ste. 104, San Clemente 949.395.4375 DRE# 01902556

LuciaHonda@firstteam.com LuciaHonda.FirstTeam.com

Linda Huebner DRE # 887400

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Kia Kiakojuri DRE # 2120574

Coldwell Banker Realty Priscilla Lehnhardt DRE # 1967703

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Kathy Manes- Smith DRE # 1871350

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Veronica Potter DRE # 1226011

Regency Real Estate Brokers

Darlene Simmons DRE # 1862144

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Tonianne Southron DRE # 1908708

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Heidi Stoops DRE # 1401728

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Bob Strausheim DRE # 611168

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Lynne Suzanski DRE # 1230012 Coast to Canyon Real Estate

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

A leader in the new generation of Southern California luxury real estate, Kimia Vakili brings forth a comprehensive approach to world-class service that is unparalleled in the market. Her tenacity, commitment, passion, and pure dedication to her craft has ranked her in the top 1% of all Orange County Agents, receiving prestigious accolades such as company “Hall of Fame” for exceptional sales volume and Orange County Real Estate All-Star recognition. Kimia’s services, marketing tools, and negotiation tactics go beyond the scope of what a typical realtor provides, which has ascended her into the world of luxury. Whether it comes to pricing strategy, staging and remodeling, or in-depth market analysis, Kimia and her team bring a personalized and hands-on approach while achieving her clients maximum sales prices. Representing some of the most sophisticated clientele composed of celebrities, professional athletes, and business moguls, Kimia’s local focus and global reach fused with a powerhouse brokerage with 40+ years of rich history and market dominance delivers the perfect match for her most discerning clients. Graduating with a Business and Entrepreneurship degree from Chapman University, she is a trusted professional and a force to be reckoned with among colleagues, clients, and peers. Kimia possesses the rare and unique attributes to excel in a highly competitive industry, and her foremost objective is to provide her clientele with the best financial outcome, all while creating a smooth, stress-free and positive experience.

Rita Tayenaka

DRE # 1805778

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Colleen Trujillo

DRE # 1191529

Coast to Canyon Real Estate

Tim Wolter

DRE # 1384317

HomeSmart Evergreen Realty

Monarch Beach

Hillary Caston

DRE # 1266265

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Lisa Cooper

DRE # 1084345

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Ron Delan

DRE # 1360743

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Sara McCartan

DRE # 1336756

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Connie McKibban

DRE # 461898

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Jennifer Nunnikhoven DRE # 1239377

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Jim Shockey DRE # 380355

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

John Yocca DRE # 2080125

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

ABBY CORPODIAN

Senior Agent Redfin

With 40 plus years of combined experience in the real estate and lending industry, we are here to help achieve your goals. Working as a team we have successfully helped many families secure their dream home. Call us today and we would be honored to be a part of your team.

As friends and colleagues our relationship became even stronger because of our love of charity and giving back. We get so much pleasure out of helping others and it would be our pleasure to help you.

Newport Beach

Nancy Barfield DRE # 1085438

Villa Real Estate

Melissa Barnes DRE # 1249422

Villa Real Estate

Ronnie Beauchamp Cancellieri DRE # 1823391

Surterre Properties

Rebecca Anderson Surterre Properties

1400 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.433.1943

DRE# 01913892 randerson@ surterreproperties.com rebeccaandersonre.com

Anne Marie Ashley DRE # 1402474

Villa Real Estate

Brad Bankenbush

DRE # 2006270

Douglas Elliman of California

Debi Bibb DRE # 602463

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Kim Bibb

DRE # 1210754

Villa Real Estate

Lindsay Bibb DRE # 1273718

Villa Real Estate

Tracy Bowie DRE # 1234314

Villa Real Estate

Adrienne Brandes DRE # 1337636

Surterre Properties

Coleen Brennan DRE # 1003247

Tim Smith Group, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

Angela Caliger DRE # 1985549

Surterre Properties

Mike Campbell DRE # 1395430

Surterre Properties

Jeanne Carni DRE # 1473658

Villa Real Estate

Michael Carpenter DRE # 1221473

Compass Ken Carr DRE # 1384935

Villa Real Estate

Tim Carr DRE # 1017277

Villa Real Estate

Robin Chesnie DRE # 1293218

Villa Real Estate

Abby Corpodian Redfin

7535 Irvine Center Drive, Suite 200 Irvine, CA 92618 949.610.5409 abby.corpodian@redfin.com

DRE# 01908815

Vance Long United American Mortgage Corporation

3198-F Airport Loop Drive

Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Direct 714.420.1997 Office 949.250.1300

BRE License# 01889503 | NMLS ID # 338462

PAULA ARAGONE

CEO/Founder

Aragone

& Associates

Paula brings two decades of real estate experience combined with a high level of negotiating skills, marketing innovation, integrity and passion to each transaction. Aragone has a reputation for being a trusted advisor to her extensive clientele and 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.

Aragone & Associates has received numerous industry awards and is ranked in the top 1% of agents nationwide. Our proven track record has resulted in over 800+ successfully closed transactions and over $600+ million in total sales volume

Aragone & Associates has a built a Division specifically focused on Probates & Trusts as well as an Investment Division. We collaborate with Estate Planning Attorneys, Financial Planners, CPAs, Corporate Trustees, Fiduciaries, and Conservators on the selling or acquisitions of the real estate assets.

Aragone & Associates’ mission is to redefine the real estate experience by providing luxury customer service, incredible market knowledge, and extraordinary results.

Paula attended 4 years of Law School in her native country, which has been proven to be an edge in Real Estate contracts. 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

• Certified Senior Residential Specialists

AragoneAssociates.com

Office 949.415.4784 Cell 714.366.6117 Paula@PaulaAragone.com

DRE# 01364746

Bob Coluccio

DRE # 1085115

Villa Real Estate

Edison Cook

DRE # 2045824

Surterre Properties

Evan Corkett

DRE # 468496

Villa Real Estate

Joy Curtin

DRE # 1140694

Villa Real Estate

Damian Del Rossi

DRE # 1910212

Douglas Elliman of California

Joe Deperine

DRE # 1758057

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Pegi Dirienzo

DRE # 1219774

Douglas Elliman of California

Bill Dolby

DRE # 1005904

Villa Real Estate

Kara Duffy

DRE # 1241157

Villa Real Estate

Linda Duffy

DRE # 1979777

Villa Real Estate

Pam Duley

DRE # 899324

Villa Real Estate

Holly Duplanty

DRE # 1852564

Compass

Jeff Ewing

DRE # 1027345

Coldwell Banker Realty

Kathy Fallon

DRE # 1428911

Surterre Properties

Michael Fawaz

DRE # 1342829

Compass

Roula Fawaz

DRE # 1172580

Surterre Properties

Branden Fella

DRE # 1860709

Compass

Jon Flagg

DRE # 1316048

Villa Real Estate

Brian Gibney

DRE # 1383231

Villa Real Estate

Dave Girling DRE # 1852613

Villa Real Estate

Mary Golding DRE # 1865418

Coldwell Banker Realty

Gail Grabner

DRE # 1123006

Villa Real Estate HomeServices California Properties

Steve High DRE # 936421

Villa Real Estate

Nicole Jandzio DRE # 1917754

Douglas Elliman of California

Debbie Johnson DRE # 1177685

Villa Real Estate

Pallie Jones DRE # 1918002

Villa Real Estate

Kevin Kanda DRE # 1023714

Surterre Properties

Andrew Karigan DRE # 1427661

Douglas Elliman of California

Lynne Karpa DRE # 1130741

Compass

Chris Kwon Compass

341 Bayside Dr. Newport Beach 949.427.1101 DRE# 01918857 chris@kwonhomegroup .com kwonhomegroup.com

Lara Langford DRE # 1856638

Surterre Properties

Genille Lauren DRE # 1261335 Surterre Properties

Sharon Grimes

Berkshire Hathaway CA. Properties

3301 East Coast Hwy Corona Del Mar 949.466.5756 DRE# 01149249 sharongrimes1@gmail. com SharonGrimes.com

Liz Hansche DRE # 1358416

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Merrilee Hapeman DRE # 1276248

Surterre Properties

Marlene Hassel DRE # 999897

Villa Real Estate

David Hein DRE # 1229489

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Gordon Henry DRE # 704984

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Veronica Hicks DRE # 1443184

Villa Real Estate

Spyro Kemble Surterre Properties

1400 Newport Center Dr. Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.689.8377 DRE# 01012126 Spyro@ surterreproperties.com SpyroKemble.com

Michael Kennedy DRE # 1378430

Villa Real Estate

Melanie Kermode DRE # 1188137

Villa Real Estate

Sommer Killian DRE # 1076343

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Michelle Krenzke DRE # 1495317

Surterre Properties

Rick Langevin DRE # 777918

Surterre Properties

Vicki Lee DRE # 664250 Compass

Breanna Lepante DRE # 1919560

Douglas Elliman of California

Michelle Q. Linovitz Villa Real Estate

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

Gary Macrides

DRE # 1267654

Surterre Properties

Olga Matthews DRE # 483564

Villa Real Estate

Brenda McCroskey DRE # 1869273 Compass

Ayumi Lewis Coldwell Banker Realty

840 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.698.8698 DRE# 01929147 ayumi@ayumirealestate. com ayumirealestate.com

Camilla «Cammy” Leslie DRE # 556674

Surterre Properties

Patrick Loyd DRE # 1270696

Patrick Loyd Group

Devin Lucas DRE # 1912302

Villa Real Estate

Susie McKibben Villa Real Estate

450 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.500.5327 DRE# 01966883 smckibben@ villarealestate.com mckibbenrealestate. com

Landon Miller

DRE # 1883305

Villa Real Estate

Yalda Miller DRE # 1940710

Villa Real Estate

Logan Montgomery DRE # 1991607

Villa Real Estate

Hyoungjoo Na DRE # 1700911

Surterre Properties

REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

Ivana Michelle Nguyen

DRE # 2076942

Villa Real Estate

Suzanne Podany

DRE # 1447672

Surterre Properties

Charlie Price

DRE # 2007776

Villa Real Estate

Mark Ravanpak DRE # 1274523

Surterre Properties

Art Rivera DRE # 497094

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Katie Rollins

DRE # 1379867

Surterre Properties

Liz Ryan DRE # 1323892

Surterre Properties

Yvonne Ryono

DRE # 1448754

Compass Monique Saia

DRE # 1344795

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Heather Saito DRE # 1158918

Villa Real Estate

Hosana Saputra DRE # 1320561

Surterre Properties

Holly Schwartz DRE # 1892567

Compass

Lauren Scott DRE # 1332857

Douglas Elliman of California

Jami Lynn Sepulveda

DRE # 1464204

Villa Real Estate

Tara Shapiro

DRE # 1892201

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Jennifer Shaw

DRE # 698958

Douglas Elliman of California

Soheila Shirazi

DRE # 883491

Surterre Properties

Chris Sirianni DRE # 1754015

Villa Real Estate

Rob Smith DRE # 1113111

Compass Pam Spruce DRE # 1242934

Compass

John Stanaland DRE # 1223768

Villa Real Estate

Trevor Stanaland DRE # 1897171

Villa Real Estate

Andy Stavros DRE # 1408840

Douglas Elliman of California

Manny Stellino DRE # 912924

Villa Real Estate

Josef Szigeti DRE # 1234785

Douglas Elliman of California

Mike Tashman DRE # 1108325

Surterre Properties

Elizabeth Thamer DRE # 1169245

Villa Real Estate

Leslie Thompson DRE # 1836958

Compass Jacqueline Thompson DRE # 1476106

Surterre Properties

John Trevino DRE # 1411440

Villa Real Estate

Michael Tsamoudakis DRE # 1915782

Compass Dominic Tucci DRE # 1506188

Villa Real Estate

Khan Varnishung DRE # 1998154

Compass Jay Viloria DRE # 1037496

Villa Real Estate

Christian Walsh DRE # 1804983

Coldwell Banker Realty

Kimia Vakili

First Team / Christie’s International Real Estate

4 Corporate Plaza Dr. Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.812.8913 DRE# 02059668 kimia@kimiavakili.com kimiavakili.com

Mary Ellen Weglarz

DRE # 976277

Villa Real Estate

Garrett Weston DRE # 1385026

Coldwell Banker Realty

San Clemente

Debbie Brewington DRE # 1011900

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Candy Flock DRE # 558789

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Laura Ginn DRE # 1352570 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Kelly LeClair DRE # 1938313

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Kathy Thomson DRE # 1819591

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Tustin

Alyssa Barajas DRE # 2067250

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Ali Jahanshahi DRE # 1712904

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Tracey Marcyan

DRE # 1884787

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Alfredo Mayoral

DRE # 1998949

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Marcela Rodriguez DRE # 1936377

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Shawn Shahbazi DRE # 962903

Candice Silver

AJ Olson Whitfield

Villa Real Estate

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

Jill Wiese

DRE # 1078872

Villa Real Estate

Jeff Williams

DRE # 1198735

Villa Real Estate

Stephanie Young DRE # 1793999

Coldwell Banker Realty

Rancho Santa Margarita

Hiiro Tomita

DRE # 2024651

Judson Charles, Inc.

Pacific Platinum Properties, Inc. 949.910.2518 DRE# 02034243 candice@ silver-realestate.com silver-realestate.com

Christian Wach DRE # 1922260 Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

San Diego

Kathi Kanan DRE # 810074

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

San Ramon

Wade Wright DRE # 990129

eXp Realty of California, Inc

Santa Ana

Christl Orr DRE # 2040257

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Kevin Shuler DRE # 1953088

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Jeffrey Simons DRE # 1212169

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Mathew Thomas DRE # 1314030

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Anna Zhu DRE # 1954453

Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin

Yorba Linda Amy Alvarez DRE # 1216079

First Team Real Estate

Lisa Amato Sherg DRE # 1064274

First Team Real Estate

Karen Brown DRE # 1503358

First Team Real Estate

Lynn Campbell DRE # 1938219

First Team Real Estate

Albert has been in the real estate industry for over 16 years. Committed to achieving his client’s goals, he takes an educational approach to assuring their success. “I tell clients that I work for them- they’re the boss”, say Albert. “My job isn’t to sell them on a house. My job is to provide all options available in the marketplace, and explain the pros and cons of each so they can make a decision that’s in their family’s best interest”.

Nora Fregoso Olga Nunez Albert Soto Karina Rodiguez

Gregory Colson

DRE # 1961268

First Team Real Estate

Cherie Eckley

DRE # 1357472

First Team Real Estate

Nancy Eun KyungLee

DRE # 1124068

First Team Real Estate

Rebecca Kim DRE # 1971738

First Team Real Estate

Joanna Lee DRE # 332698

First Team Real Estate

Peggy McCullough

DRE # 1296354

First Team Real Estate

Steve Mortensen

DRE # 1813078

Coldwell Banker Realty

Filipina Opena

DRE # 1416445

Coldwell Banker Realty

Anita Patel

DRE # 1512438

First Team Real Estate

Danelle Stroble

DRE # 1918815

First Team Real Estate

Denise Tash DRE # 1316399

First Team Real Estate

Michelle Tsai Aun DRE # 1830733

Coldwell Banker Realty

TEAMS

Anaheim Hills

Corona Del Mar Caruso Group The Agency DRE # 01073919, 01934516

Daftarian Group Luxe Real Estate DRE # 1993277

Mina Maghami & Joseph Maghami

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1159753

The HD Team Agent inc. DRE # 1935951

Valenty Real Estate Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1509292

Weir Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1455381

Costa Mesa Marterra Real Estate Marterra Real Estate DRE # 2014153

Dana Point

Arlen Raubach Group Compass DRE # 1890023

Beach to Ranch Associates Compass DRE # 2035570

Bree Hughes Team Compass DRE # 1440050

Immel Team Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1862270

McDaniel Gilmore Group Compass DRE # 1755713

Tate LaMott Group Compass DRE # 1871507

The Forum Group Compass DRE # 2043345

The Lynch Group The Lynch Group, LLC DRE # 1982385

The Lynch Group Compass DRE # 1314572

Ulnick Group Compass DRE # 1232092

Seacliff Team Coldwell Banker DRE # 1416035

Stanfield Real Estate Group

Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1024996

The Grange Group Compass DRE # 1343165

The Scott J. Miller Team Coldwell Banker DRE # 1131182

The Wollner Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1889264 Irvine

Avant Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1319910

Mackenzie & Cannon Coldwell Banker DRE # 01038710 | 1329802

The Cathy Haney Team First Team Real Estate DRE # 1133913

Mike Johnson Group Compass DRE # 1429647

The Forum Group Compass DRE # 2043345

The Garman Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 2072224

The Penny Pattillo Team Compass DRE # 2071837

Todd Davis Compass DRE # 1969131

Wall Realty Group Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1840729

Winston West Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1809833

Albert Soto

Soto & Company Team

First Team Real Estate

8028 E. Santa Ana

Canyon Dr., Anaheim 714.913.7428 DRE# 01478858 albert@albertsoto.com albertsoto.firstteam.com

Noonan Team Compass DRE # 1371994

Robyn Robinson Compass DRE # 849269

Susan Chase Group Compass DRE # 1955051

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

Garden Grovede Team Tackney GMT Real Estate DRE # 1390210

Huntington Beach Ankush Bathla Compass DRE # 2028566

Carl Capitano Team Compass DRE # 1078792

MacLeod Real Estate Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 934704

Nolasco and Berta Group Compass DRE # 1279850

Ransom House Compass DRE # 1910700

The Gamboa Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 999273

Laguna Beach Ardery + Associates Compass DRE # 576041

Chris Tebbutt Compass DRE # 1993864

Diane Cannon Compass DRE # 1090918

Fox Wilson Team Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1180243

Gary Boisen Compass DRE # 1332242

Horton Team Surterre Properties DRE # #01357096

Hufnagel/Cleveland Surterre Properties DRE # 01763124, 01956319

Meital Taub Luxury Group Meital Taub Luxury Group | First Team DRE # 1871040

Laguna Niguel Brad Feldman Group Douglas Elliman of California DRE # 1437125

Cheryl Newton & Linda Caddick Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 576950

Chris and Kathy Zoch Coldwell Banker DRE # 1839065

Godfrey Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1322358

Mark Paulson & Associates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1245085

The Bishop Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 01352560 & 01982437

The Candice Blair Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1395953

The Ora Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1210081

Fullerton

Thomas C. Santoro, Broker, CFP® Crane Real Estate

SPYRO KEMBLE

Surterre Properties®

Success … I define it as living your best life under your terms. I am doing just that. At a young age of 65, I am doing what I love to do — “deals” — and spending a great deal of time in my two “happy places,” Greece and Hawaii.

After a long and successful career approaching 33 years and $1 billion in sales, I still enjoy helping my clients create wealth in the real estate market, but more importantly finding their dream house.

There are 61,722 realtors in Orange County, and I am honored to be associated with the 1% known as AllStars.

I would be remiss if I didn’t give a shoutout to Surterre Properties. For the past 16 years Surterre and their

rockstar staff have played an integral part in my success. The support I and all other great agents have received is the reason why we find many Surterre agents on this list.

I must also confess that my assistant/ closer, “Habibi,” gets a great deal of credit for our success for the last five years that I have been on this distinguished list. How do you say no to that face when the final counter goes out?

My love of helping people combined with the art of making a deal made real estate a natural fit. A 33-year industry vet, I am consistently ranked in the top 1% of realtors in Orange County. I also served as president of the Newport Beach Association of Realtors, written a book titled “Reality Check: Lessons Learned, Candor & Consequence,” and starred in the Bravo reality show “Real

Estate Wars.” Today, I still enjoy helping people find their dream homes and create memories.

I give back to the community by supporting The W.I.N. Foundation, an organization founded 26 years ago by my wife, Dr. Tracy Kemble, that helps women recovering from abuse.

My success builds on the strategy of making choices today to create your tomorrow. At 65, I’m living my best life. I love what I do and, God willing, I’ll be doing it for many years to come.

Surterre Properties®

1400 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.689.8377 SpyroKemble.com

DRE# 01012126

Hair by Dusty | Photo by Nick Shetterly

Long Beach Jake Gordon Compass DRE # 1923405

Mission Viejo Cordova Real Estate Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1157910

Gina Strane and Kirby Ellis Team Coldwell Banker DRE # 01296474, 00938001

Mathews Real Estate Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1396233

The Gold Medal Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1751159

The Kevin Hill Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 866218

The Reece Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1993610

Monarch Beach

Dipilla Real Estate Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1130780

Newport Beach Andrew Cotton & Christopher Bellot Team Compass DRE # 1895023

Annie Clougherty Team Compass DRE # 1716801

Arrigo Presson Group Surterre Properties DRE # #01020536

Bixby Residential Group Compass DRE # 1364572

Brad & Sara Hinman Compass DRE # 1186277

Bradshaw Residential Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1304396

Bratter | Lombardi Compass DRE # 1322610

Brenda McCroskey Team Compass DRE # 1869273

Brian Liberto eXp Realty DRE # 1473233

Bryan Van Zee Compass DRE # 2017702

Cain Group Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1467294

Carol Lee Group Compass DRE # 1402855

Casey Lesher Coldwell Banker DRE # 1795953

Charles Huynh & Hamid Koochak Compass DRE # 02013054 | 01926949

Chris Valli & Associates Surterre Properties DRE # 00604151

Dan Choi Real Estate Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1792771

Dee Shiohama Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1720465

eHomes OC eHomes DRE # 1854412

Feingold Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1385147

Glara and Veronica Lee Group Compass DRE # 1938180

Hammond Moreno Associates Surterre Properties DRE # #01503663

Harold Noriega Group Compass DRE # 1494239

Jen Gong Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1891691

Jennifer Palmquist Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1243459

Jody Chapman Compass DRE # 1338862

Jojo Romeo & Associates Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1878195

Jorge Portillo Compass DRE # 1917847

Justin Gin & Joseph Murnik Compass DRE # 2004882

Kacey Taormina Compass DRE # 1920673

Denine Kerns

The Kerns Group

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

Katie Dickerson and Alison Eastman Compass DRE # 1504800

Khosh Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 892388

Kina De Santis Group Compass DRE # 2100629

Kline | Sarna Surterre Properties DRE # #01171319

Langford Group Surterre Properties DRE # 01856638

Legrand Ballantyne Group Surterre Properties DRE # 01950213

Leo Goldschwartz Compass DRE # 1704591

Liz Hansche Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1358416

Machoskie & Associates Compass DRE # 1380037

Marcus Gualter Coldwell Banker DRE # 1079157

Marcus Skenderian Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1115339

Mark Todd & Associates Compass DRE # 1168021

Mason | Taylor Associates Compass DRE # 1709074

Maura Short Real Estate Group Compass DRE # 1883774

McKown | Weinstein | Associates Compass DRE # 1275953

Megan Varga Group Compass DRE # 1991628

Michael Shank Group Compass DRE # 1876840

Nicolai Glazer Real Estate Group Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1857997

Patrick Loyd Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1270696

Private Client Group OC Compass DRE # 1752859

Robertson & Foster Group Compass DRE # 1413500

Rod Daley Coldwell Banker DRE # 456990

Ronnie & Cyrena Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1891826

Snyder Team Surterre Properties DRE # 01844195

Spitzer Roche Team Compass DRE # 1888755

Edward Blatchford + Michael Wortel Surterre Properties DRE # 01312438, 02115025

Kim Walker, Mollie Butcher & Jenna Downes Compass DRE # 1480826

Kimberlee Drake Group Compass DRE # 1068050

Monica Carr Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1372175

Natalie-Raney Real Estate Raney (Bibb|Raney) Villa Real Estate DRE # 1770822

341 Bayside Dr. Newport Beach 949.662.1000 DRE# 01118318 stephanie.lowe@ compass.com stephanielowegroup.com

Stowell & Associates Surterre Properties DRE # 01397481

Swardstrom Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1907305

Tahmasebi Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1976507

Stephanie Lowe Stephanie Lowe Group Compass

“Chris Kwon’s experience, coupled with the marketing reach with Compass, exceeded our expectations. Chris managed the Compass Concierge service which fronted the costs of services that increased the value of our home including new flooring, cosmetic repairs, painting and staging - there was no payment collected until the sale funded. Our home looked better after the Compass Concierge services than when we bought it new! Chris Kwon was instrumental in guiding us through the roller-coaster experience of selling during the turbulent impact of rising inflation, rising interest rates and international war impacting the market. He is simply the best. You will not go wrong placing your trust in his care.” – A. Rhodes

As a former professional golfer, I learned my share of lessons on the links, the most important of which was to move forward, no matter how difficult the obstacle. Today, as an Orange County, California native, I constantly apply the lessons to my real estate dealings and it’s paying off. Now in my 10th year as a real estate professional, I’ve had the opportunity to help hundreds of families achieve their goals, deliver a 5 star experience and most importantly, deliver results. I’m motivated by providing for my family, being a role model for my children and living the best possible life that we can live.

Teri Hardke Coldwell Banker DRE # 517307

The Ballesteros Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1246320

The File Group Compass DRE # 1952433

The Georgina Jacobson Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1176109

The Halton Group Douglas Elliman of California DRE # 1257593

The Laurie Eastman Group Compass DRE # 1858979

The Smith Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1346878

The Sousse Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 1238377

The Thomas Group Surterre Properties DRE # #01320898

The Tom Unvert Team Douglas Elliman of California DRE # 1710879

Tim Morissette Group Coldwell Banker DRE # 629590

Tori Rimlinger Compass DRE # 1512376

Tyler Brown & Associates Compass DRE # 2043514

WEBER + CO Group Compass DRE # 1963871

White Associates Compass DRE # 1346645

Yoshikane-Toyama Real Estate Group

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 801398

Rancho Mission Viejo

The Archuletta Team Compass DRE # 2092569

Riverside Brad Alewine Compass DRE # 1104973

San Clemente

Brotherton Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1943336

Echelberger Group Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty DRE # 1176379

Hartanov Team Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1332740

Scott Kidd lAssociatesl Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties DRE # 1011063

Tustin

Rhee and Associates Keller Williams RealtyN. Tustin DRE # 1518885

Yorba Linda

Steve & Terry S First Team Real Estate DRE # 961752

Terri Newland Real Estate Team

First Team Real Estate DRE # 1234732

The Hansen Team First Team Real Estate DRE # 1239365

MORTGAGE

Aliso Viejo

Cory DePass Franklin Mortgage NLMS ID # 388271

Anaheim

Sabina Adamski Guaranteed Rate Affinity NLMS ID # 1598145

Kristen Knight-James Monarch Funding Corp. NLMS ID # 234396

Steven Stearns Thrive Financial NLMS ID # 296512

Chris Stearns Thrive Financial NLMS ID # 397556

Bakersfield

Greg Elliott GEM Mortgage NLMS ID # 842503

Beverly Hills

Paula Aragone

Aragone & Associates

First Team Real Estate

4 Corporate Plaza Dr. Ste. 100, Newport Beach 949.415.4784 DRE# 01364746 Paula@ PaulaAragone.com AragoneAssociates.com

Edward Englehart Group

First Team Real Estate DRE # 1724951

Kristen Fowler Group

First Team Real Estate DRE # 1061545

Radcliffe & Associates Coldwell Banker DRE # 1923712

Rommy & Kathy First Team Real Estate DRE # 1415313

Jeff Edwards Insignia Mortgage NLMS ID # 40338

Carlsbad

Curtis Fox Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC NLMS ID # 653815

Cerritos

Phil Rodriguez Citywide Home Loans NLMS ID # 275934

Costa Mesa

Allycyn Bennett Sandstone Financial NLMS ID # 230116

Jon Rowland

United American Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 230280

Al Hensling

United American Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 71287

Dean Rathbun United American Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 98516

Mark Simon United American Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 286568

Dana Point Lance Powell Paramount Residential Mortgage Group, Inc. NLMS ID # 255678

Elk Grove

Cheryl Boldig Guaranteed Rate Affinity NLMS ID # 1021838

Huntington Beach

John Soricelli J & J Coastal Lending NLMS ID # 235274

Jason Thomas JMJ Financial NLMS ID # 1163778

Tom Briggs New American Funding NLMS ID # 303474

Irvine

Dean Valeriano Back Bay Funding NLMS ID # 293707

Mark Barley Cardinal Financial NLMS ID # 341589

Lynn Nelson Finance of America NLMS ID # 653022

Tom Testerman Finance of America NLMS ID # 435148

Raquel Munoz-Rivera Homeowners First NLMS ID # 289763

Nicole Babyak Kent Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 288406

Joe Kearney Movement Mortgage NLMS ID # 1500003

Jon Shimazaki Movement Mortgage NLMS ID # 325453

Amit Singh Neo Home Loans NLMS ID # 1153118

Ignacio Maldini Trustlink Mortgage NLMS ID # 235846

Lucy Kalajian

2030 Main St., 10th Fl. Irvine 818.497.3784 NMLSR# 459812 lucy.kalajian@ wellsfargo.com homeloans.wellsfargo. com/lucy-kalajian

Jason Koonin Wells Fargo NLMS ID # 883354

Ladera Ranch Marlon Escota Ladera Lending NLMS ID # 197715

Laguna Beach Julie Sandler

Laguna Lending Group, Inc. NLMS ID # 234986

Laguna Hills Alan Kunski Get Qualified NLMS ID # 309425

Laguna Niguel David Balsz Cornerstone Home Lending, Inc. NLMS ID # 662204

Ryan Broughton

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 387870

Patty Carpenter Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation NLMS ID # 478770

Dwight Lagos Finance of America NLMS ID # 457806

Heather Millspaugh Finance of America NLMS ID # 450387

Wells Fargo | Private Mortgage Banker

AYUMI LEWIS

Coldwell

Banker Realty

In the last six years, Ayumi Lewis has sold over $400 million in real estate.

In her journey to dominate the luxury real estate market, Ayumi has dedicated herself to passionately deliver truly remarkable service while creating value and elevating her clients lives to their very best versions. She has helped multitudes in building diverse real estate portfolios, gain financial independence and wealth through real estate investment. Regardless of the current fluctuations, Ayumi holds firm to her belief that real estate investment is the single most effective way of building generational wealth. Ayumi’s unique and diverse experience in multinational investments and entrepreneurship, gives her the broad, well-rounded skillset and knowledge needed to successfully guide clients through the treacherous paths of the rapidly changing market conditions. While the current shift creates uncertainty, Ayumi continues to do all the hard work and arms her clients with the latest news, data, and forecasts to make the wisest investment decisions. She works with the top leaders in the industry, brainstorming ideas with today’s highest performing investors, coaches with only with the top coaches of the industry, spares no expense or time to learn and hone her skills to better serve her clients, day in and day out. Her unshakeable resolve has placed her in the top ranks of every industry she has touched; youngest and highest performing entrepreneur in the restaurant industry, #1 in national sales for several companies in the investment property management industry, #2 Agent in California for DE in real estate, consistently placed in the top 0.5% of all U.S. real estate agents. Her own portfolio consists of a diverse collection of real estate carefully designed to maximize the bottom line, regardless of the market. In short, Ayumi’s unnatural dedication to self-improvement and desire to bring value into people’s lives, gives you, her client and friend, consistently the best guidance available.

840 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660

949.898.3200 ayumirealestate.com ayumi@ayumirealestate.com

DRE# 01929147

Lake Forest

Matt Wright

Alliance West Mortgage NLMS ID # 229916

Mission Viejo

Dino Katsiametis California Coastal Loans NLMS ID # 264396

Dave Brown First Class Lending NLMS ID # 20868

Joyce Smith

Legacy Home Loans NLMS ID # 258701

Leslie O’Neal Movement Mortgage NLMS ID # 298621

Newport Beach Elizabeth Nelson Bank of the West NLMS ID # 507245

Greg Ruszat Chase NLMS ID # 693803

Jaime Teran Chase NLMS ID # 42425

Robert Towers Guaranteed Rate Affinity NLMS ID # 828753

Ryan Cushman Guaranteed Rate Affinity NLMS ID # 84590

Jill Snedeker Loan Depot NLMS ID # 839465

Kevin Budde Monarch Coast Financial NLMS ID # 325450

David Capek Origin Point NLMS ID # 960083

Justin Purpero Origin Point NLMS ID # 373589

Grant Sedlak Origin Point NLMS ID # 1020169

Rhonda Hummel

Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC NLMS ID # 325382

RJ Kosich

Rancho Vista Mortgage NLMS ID # 248655

San Clemente

Shannon Gray Lifesource Mortgage NLMS ID # 337919

Matt Cady Summit Lending NLMS ID # 249727

Bob Hays Wells Fargo NLMS ID # 450454

San Diego

David Stein Principal Equity Group NLMS ID # 343820

Nathan Lindsey Union Bank

Newport / Huntington Beach 714.394.0506 NLMS# 665133 nathan.lindsey@ unionbank.com unionbank.com

Danny Baldwin US Bank NLMS ID # 222403

Santa Ana

Dylan Tortarolo Arbor Financial Group NLMS ID # 934248

Jay Carr Arbor Financial Group ID # 694607

Keith De John Arbor Financial Group NLMS ID # 252519

Seal Beach Chris Fenoglio Finance of America NLMS ID # 653010

Eric Miller Finance of America NLMS ID # 391165

Tom McMurray

Karbon Financial NLMS ID # 39007

Tustin

Jenny Schippers Loan Depot NLMS ID # 252146

Cary Grandfield Synergy Financial NLMS ID # 316995

Viejo Dean Lob America’s Moneyline NLMS ID # 145359

We can help your clients with loan amounts up to $5 million

1

Most banks only offer loans up to $2 million. Union Bank® offers loans up to $5 million.

The Union Bank advantage

As a major originator of jumbo loans, we offer higher loan amounts with competitive rates and loan options. And since we’re a portfolio lender, your clients can expect exceptional personal service for the life of the loan. Get personalized advice from one of our experienced Mortgage Consultants.

Jered Barger

Regional Sales Manager

San Diego & Orange County NMLS ID #448544 619-847-5080 jered.barger@unionbank.com

Steve Silvestri

Private Mortgage Consultant

Irvine / Mission Viejo NMLS ID #419052

714-476-3000 steve.silvestri@unionbank.com

Bill Kelso

Private Mortgage Consultant

Laguna Beach / Newport Beach NMLS ID #325251 949-929-8186 bill.kelso@unionbank.com

Mary Vachon

Private Mortgage Consultant

Newport Beach

NMLS ID #322288 949-244-5890 mary.vachon@unionbank.com

Nate Lindsey

Private Mortgage Consultant

Newport / Huntington Beach NMLS ID #665133 714-394-0506 nathan.lindsey@unionbank.com

Richard Weintraub

Private Mortgage Consultant Palm Desert NMLS ID #294068 760-447-5000 richard.weintraub@unionbank.com

Loans subject to credit and collateral approval. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Restrictions may apply. Terms and conditions subject to change.

1 Minimum credit score and reserve requirements apply and may impact the amount that can be borrowed and the interest rate/APR for which your client is eligible. Consult your Union Bank Mortgage Consultant for details.

©2022 MUFG Union Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Union Bank is a registered trademark and brand name of MUFG Union Bank, N.A. unionbank.com

DINING GUIDE

ORANGE COUNTY’S DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR RESTAURANT NEWS & MINIREVIEWS

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 enchi lada topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 8200 E. Santa Ana Can yon 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 loca tion (not yet reviewed) in Laguna Beach. $$

ROSINE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

ALISO VIEJO

OPAH

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

ANAHEIM

CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR

Dead center in Downtown Disney, Catal is the Patina Group’s nod to Spain’s Mediterranean cui sine. Expect an urbane spin on rustic fare such as lobster paella, making this one of the zone’s bet ter spots for fine dining. Just outside, Uva Bar is an alfresco saloon with light eats and great peoplewatching. 1580 Disneyland Drive, 714-774-4442. $$$

NAPA ROSE

Wine country thrives at the Disneyland Resort by way of this classy dinner house— no park admission required. Star chef Andrew Sut ton leads his crew in an exhibition kitchen, turning out imaginative, highly seasonal New American fare. The room mixes rustic with refined, and the nota bly wine-savvy waitstaff, many qualified as som meliers, deftly tailors unforgettable meals around wines from one of the region’s finest cellars. Dis ney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, 1313 Disneyland Drive, 714-300-7170. $$$

POPPY & SEED

Chef-owner Michael Reed applies his versa tile chops to a spirited, seasonal dinner menu of share plates and thoughtful proteins. Clever vari ations on of-the-moment produce are high points, as are premium steaks and duck dishes. The oneof-a-kind greenhouse garden setting is a calming contrast to neighbor Anaheim Packing House.

Weekend brunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-603-7130 $$$

THE RANCH

Oozing ambition, this upscale venue boasts a yowza saloon and a fine dining room so serious about sourcing, it maintains a private farm in the nearby foothills. A whopping menu of decidedly seasonal American fare boasts both uptown and down-home dishes. Live entertainment and dancing keep the deluxe honkytonk hopping on weekends. 1025 E. Ball Road, 714-817-4200. $$$

ROXY’Z

Zov’s Anaheim resurfaced as this breezy watering hole inspired by Zov Karamardian’s mother and reputed renegade Roxy. Craft cocktails, imagina tive share plates, and premier pizzas dominate a menu designed for gathering before or after games, concerts, and Disneyland visits. Don’t-miss dishes include the chile-glazed rib stack, fried chicken sandwich, and kebab platter. There’s an elevated beer program and a midweek happy hour. 1801 E. Katella Ave., 714-280-9687. $$

TRUE SEASONS ORGANIC KITCHEN

This sleek storefront by Saifon Plewtong now adds wraps, bowls, smoothies, and desserts to a menu that once focused solely on hot pots. Still, the spot light is on organic, GMO-free local produce and allnatural proteins. Do try the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice for a refresher like no other in these parts. 5675 E. La Palma Ave., 714-462-9223. Beer and wine. $$

URBANA

This colorful latecomer to the Anaheim Packing House brings vibrancy and a cool cantina attitude to a food hall that really needed a good taco and mez cal 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 sur roundings offer a choice of ambience—festive or sultry. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714-502-0255. $$

OUR CRITERIA

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 siz able roster of gluten-free choices anchors a spin-off menu. 721 S. Weir Canyon Road, 714-283-5141. $$

BREA

BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN

One of North County’s best venues boasts advan tages that are fairly rare in these parts: thoughtfully executed Italian cuisine, a cozy setting, and appeal ing 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 appetiz ers and signature Italian cocktails. 210 W. Birch St., 714-257-1000. $$

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN

This cool hang with a wraparound sidewalk patio is Birch Street Promenade’s most enduring din ing 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. $$

OLD BREA CHOP HOUSE

North County’s fine diners can skip the trek south to splurge on old-school steakhouse dinners. Longtime Morton’s veteran Tony Fasulo breaks away, polishing the classy formula to a high sheen. Expect deluxe beef, say a Tomahawk chop or a strapping Delmonico, boosted with first-class seafood, precise cocktails, and cosseting service. Marinated skirt steak is the sleeper call. Cozy yet utterly contemporary, the venue includes a 25-seat bar with charcuterie platters. 180 S. Brea Blvd., 714592-3122. $$$

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.

TAPS FISH HOUSE & BREWERY

Taps continues to be O.C.’s landmark pick for din ing on a wide range of appealing seafood, pasta, steaks, and spunky New Orleans specialties that go down well with award-winning ales and lagers that change often. Happy hour is a big draw for value-seekers. Sunday brunch is a popular feast. 101 E. Imperial Highway, 714-257-0101. $$

CORONA DEL MAR

608 DAHLIA

Chef-owner Jessica Roy transformed the alfresco gem inside iconic Sherman Library & Gardens with a new name and joyous take on seasonal fare. Dreamy salads are impeccably fresh, pastas imaginative, and vegetarian tacos are a signature dish in the making. Effusive wine cocktails. 2647 E. Coast Highway, 949220-7229. Lunch only. $$

CDM RESTAURANT

The team behind much-loved A Restaurant offers light-wood floors, peacock-blue velvet booths, leather chairs, and a free-standing, always-busy bar. The kitchen takes on seasonal, contemporary American fare. Think a trio of unexpectedly sublime pizzas. Ethereal Parker House rolls. 2325 E. Coast Highway, 949-287-6600. $$$

EL CHOLO

It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with a fried egg. Green corn tamales have achieved cult status. 3520 E. Coast Highway, 949-777-6137. See Anaheim Hills and La Habra locations. $

FARMHOUSE AT ROGER’S GARDENS

This beguiling patio is chef-owner Rich Mead’s fourth and busiest enterprise yet, an inspired col laboration between a farmer’s dream chef and O.C.’s iconic outdoor lifestyle retailer. The restau rant-gazebo seats 120 with rustic style, making this the fresh favorite for dates and celebrations. Mead’s seasonal menu shifts often to reflect his passion for local family farms and ranches. Craft cocktails have a farmers market tilt, and a nascent cheese program rounds out the ever-changing feast. 2301 San Joa quin Hills Road, 949-640-1415. $$$

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 imag inative 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 High way, 949-717-4322. $$

COSTA MESA [ SEE ALSO SOUTH COAST METRO ]

2145 EATS

Santa Ana native and Pizzeria Ortica veteran Edu ardo Salcedo brings an artisan mindset and Japa nese aesthetic to this Neapolitan-style pizza joint in a cleverly repurposed auto shop. Aromas of almond-wood fire whet the appetite for his finely crafted pies and imaginative toasts on house-baked shokupan, Japan’s beloved breakfast loaf. Sit at the white marble bar or under umbrellas on the patio to enjoy bresaola and burrata salad with pickled fennel, or hyper-tender octopus with diced potato, charred scallions, and squid ink mayo. Star dessert: horchata tiramisu. 2145 Placentia Ave., 949-873-5853. Beer and wine. $$

BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE

and late nights. Most of the fare sticks solidly to classics, such as roast chicken and ropa vieja, but the appetizer side is loaded with winners. Updates include a lavish, all-you-can-eat brunch with live island music and an array of delicious baked goodies. Intimate confines make reservations a smart move. 2930 Bristol St., 714-556-0176. See Irvine location. $$$

IZAKAYA HACHI

A handsome, modern izakaya from the owners of Manpuku, Hachi is a boisterous, convivial gem. The charcoal-grilled skewers shine, including the chicken meatball and chicken thigh. Expect a lit tle bit of everything here: gloriously marbled beef, fresh oysters, composed salads, fried chicken, and unique pressed sushi. 3033 Bristol St., 657-231-6566.

Dinner only. $

MESA

Chef-owner Jeoffrey Offer—native of Toulouse, France, and son of a butcher—brought his pandemic dream to life with this intimate spot focused on steaks, chops, and scratch sausages. Eight specialty sauces are house-made to suit meats and starters. Wood-grilled options range from a mighty fine burger to a grand aged ribeye for two. The tidy bar boasts a kitchen view, and the patio offers a quiet alternative to the lively hubbub of a packed house. Weekend brunch stars Offer’s distinct take on croque madame and steak and eggs. There’s also a succinct wine list. 3321 Hyland Ave., 714-714-0662. $$$

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2022

DESCANSO

Descanso’s novel twist is the elevation of the taquero to center stage. Inspired by the dynamic street foods of Mexico City, owner Rob Arellano seats diners right at the plancha grill to watch their tacos sizzled with pizazz. Happy hour is particularly tempting if you can scoot in midweek, from 3 to 6 p.m. 1555 Adams Ave., 714-486-3798. $$

HABANA

Flickering candles light the way through a highceilinged dining room, convivial bar, and lush patio at The Lab’s enduring Cuban hang for date nights

At this high-style hipster hang with a retractable roof, expect shareable dishes that play by the sea sons and don’t shy away from intense flavors. High lights include mussels sizzled in cast iron and fried cicchetti olives. An interesting, value-packed wine list beckons, as do inspired artisan cocktails. 725 Baker St., 714-557-6700. $$$

OLD VINE KITCHEN & BAR

Popular for its brunch-type fare in a town rife with competing options, this charming nook has upgraded with a larger space. Foodies rave about urbane dishes, many with an Italian accent. Think barbecue pork omelet by day, seasonal tasting menu by night. Chef-owner Mark McDonald likes to pair his dinners with interesting wine flights from the world over, and he regularly leads culi nary excursions to southern Italy. 2937 Bristol St., 714-545-1411. $$

TACO MARÍA

Every dish is a marvel of deeply considered modern Cal-Mex cuisine from chef-owner and O.C. native Carlos Salgado, who parked his esteemed food truck enterprise for this site. Even the stripped-down setting draws all attention to the food. Dinners are four-course prix fixe affairs,

Seasonal vegetable risotto at 608 Dahlia

UNCOMMON COFFEE | FREELANCE COFFEE PROJECT

New Freelance Co ee Project appears to be Southern California’s first roastery and tasting room focusing solely on single-origin co ees. Two original founders of Common Room Roasters and of Melbourne, Australia-based branding agency Passport Brand Design created the concept; Freelance and Passport’s U.S. outpost share a stylishly converted ware-

with thoughtful wine pairings. Lunch—when the tacos appear—is a more laid-back and affordable way to sample the refined slant that snagged Salgado a Michelin star and several James Beard nominations for chef awards. 3313 Hyland Ave., 714-538-8444. Beer and wine. $$$

DANA POINT

ENOSTEAK

The coast’s most intimate salon for ultrapremium steaks is discreetly tucked just off the lobby at this esteemed resort. Beef—be it grass-fed, grain-fed, bone-in, or dry-aged—is the star of a pithy-if-pricey

house in an industrial area of Newport Beach. The co ee side is lined with engaging art and burlap sacks of single-origin beans. It o ers a curated collection of home-brewing equipment, home wares, ceramics, gi s, and bags of single-origin co ee as well as a window onto the roastery itself. Baristas present a variety of classic and specialty drinks alongside pastries from Crema Artisan Bakers. Beans such as

Ethiopian Guji Derikocha and Colombian Finca La Lina Pink Bourbon make for superlative espressos. The menu includes the Sparky espresso tonic. Head roaster is Ryan Okko; owners Jeremy Creighton and Natalie Taormina are launching a second location in Laguna Beach. 882 Production Place, Newport Beach, 949-877-8862, freelanceco eeproject.com

—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

menu. Lavish compound butters to enjoy alongside steaks are a house signature. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 RitzCarlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

GLASSPAR

Veteran top toque and local Rob Wilson helms his dream site, supporting the community with ultrafresh fare, delicious dishes, and his five-star service. A tight focus on top-shelf cocktails lures groups who want to gather for toasting. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949-240-6243. $$$

RAYA

Steve Wan is executive sous chef at this posh-butrelaxed dining room conceived by celeb chef Richard Sandoval. After the eye-popping bluff-top ocean

view, Pan-Latin seafood dominates the experience. But prepare to see many Asian touches on the modern menu, in creative dishes that masterfully bend ethnic borders. The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949-240-2000. $$$

SALT CREEK GRILLE

Rambling Craftsman architecture and a lovely terraced patio supply a handsome backdrop for mesquite-grilled chophouse favorites and comfort classics. The roomy lounge does a vigorous business when live music lures coastal partiers too chic for beach dives and too dignified for dance clubs. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, 949-661-7799. $$

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

INI RISTORANTE

NEW Booked solid in its early months, Ini weaves Japanese flavors and ingredients into classic Italian fare. Think branzino with yuzu beurre blanc, udon carbonara, or chicken curry pizza. The latest from juggernaut Kei Concepts (Vox Kitchen, Kin Craft Ramen, Nep Café), Ini shines with novel but approachable dishes, consistently exe cuted. Polished cocktails and stylish desserts. 16129 Brookhurst St., 714-277-4046, $$$

THE RECESS ROOM

This city’s first gastropub exists because five child hood pals needed a local haunt for gathering after their weekly basketball game. Food and booze enjoy equal amounts of love at this 148-seat venue—a cleverly retooled former Coco’s. Expect small-batch, offbeat brews and ace craft cocktails, plus lots of rich, shareable noshes. Think tender octopus with toasted quinoa for contrast, luscious pork cheeks confit, and lime-yuzu panna cotta. 18380 Brookhurst St., 714-377-0398. $$$

FULLERTON

THE CELLAR

Downtown Fullerton’s abiding choice for classy, oldschool French dining is a North County staple for romantic meals, thanks to an underground room that’s ornate, yet cozy. Expect swanky choices such

as chateaubriand, and a fine dark chocolate soufflé. 305 N. Harbor Blvd., 714-525-5682. $$$

HOPSCOTCH TAVERN

The affable downtown watering hole is unabashedly keen on booze. Artisan cocktails that feature 140 whiskeys and a choice of 80 craft beers are the axis for a limited menu big on brawny proteins, savory carbs, and fried finger foods. The clever revamp of Fullerton’s 1918 Mission Revival-style Pacific Electric Railway Station feels accessible and low-key. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., 714-871-2222. $$

KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN

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

GARDEN GROVE

NOVA KITCHEN & BAR

This glamorous sleeper is a terrific dinner choice for distinctive fare that nods to Japan, Korea, and China. The handsome 35-seat covered patio is beyond fine. Executive chef Abel Vargas oversees a sizable menu that also includes showy sushi and top-shelf cocktails. Do consider the tuna tartare, corn tempura, or coriander-braised short rib. 12361 Chapman Ave., 714-696-0888. $$$

HUNTINGTON BEACH

CUCINA ALESSÁ

Despite the exit of its founding chef, this two-story trattoria maintains a solid following thanks to a veteran crew at ease with the original menu and recipes for house-made pastas, feather-light pizzas, and breakfast omelets. 520 Main St., 714-969-2148. See Newport Beach location. $$

HENRY’S COASTAL CUISINE

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

LSXO

Step back in time to colonial Vietnam at this vest-pocket hideaway with only 28 seats. Chef-owner Tin Vuong amplifies his successful L.A. Little Sister act with a sultry setting (tucked inside of huge Bluegold) and uncompromising Viet fare inspired by his roots and frequent travels to South Vietnam. Nifty craft cocktails and luxe dishes such as salt and pepper lobster make a good date night, but we also like the street-style noshes such as prawn crepes and lemongrass skewers. Fair warn ing: The uncensored rap soundtrack is not for all ears. 21016 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-374-0083. $$

SESSIONS

Surf City is the ideal spot for the second “West Coast deli,” this time across from the sand. Terrific sand wiches that eat like a meal for two are gourmet creations, meticulous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. From-scratch soups, sides, and dressings. A surfer ethos extends to hearty breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 414 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-594-3899. Beer and wine. See Irvine and Newport Beach locations. Fourth loca tion (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 New port Center Drive. $

WATERTABLE

Here’s a rare bird, a hotel restaurant in a tourist resort that the locals love for lots of reasons. Pro gressive takes on global dishes, tiptop craft cocktails, copious happy hours, and the steady hand of long time Chef Manfred Lassahn keep this venue on point. We return just for the white cheddar and thyme bis cuits with seasonal butter. The new morning lineup of health-first bowls, smoothies, and toasts caters to beach runners. Hyatt Regency, 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, 714-845-4776. $$$

IRVINE

ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS

Irvine’s ever-slicker business zone is a good home for this classy, top-floor, New American choice for power diners, office pals, and couples. Modern craft cocktails enhance a menu that blends California ingredients with global flavors. Top toque Porfiro Gomez’s menu retains favorites such as the beef spring rolls, watermelon salad, and Duroc pork T-bone. Happy hour is a standout in a crowded field. 2607 Main St., 949-387-8887. $$

BISTANGO

A longtime airport-area mainstay, Bistango has remained surprisingly contemporary, with cre ative dishes such as sweet, soulful garlic soup, and black truffle ravioli. It’s also a classy venue for live music, and its rotating art collection adds to the air of urban sophistication. 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949-752-5222. $$$

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN

This addition to the restaurant family owned by industry vets Don Myers and Peter Serantoni is an inviting casa with a menu of modern Mexican fare boosted by commendable new dishes that blur some borders—sopes, empanadas, aguachile, and pozole to name a few. The indoor-meets-outdoor patio by designer Thomas Schoos is a fine upgrade of the Brea flagship. Weekly specials add value and excitement. Impressive tequila menu. 13126 Jambo ree Road, 714-408-7819. See Brea location. $$

CUCINA ENOTECA

This 285-seat operation from San Diego’s Urban Kitchen Group offers two sprawling patios and a huge, lively dining room with bar and wine mini market, and the scene oozes chic with scads of handmade furnishings for sale. The Cal-Ital menu is equally large and inventive, from spreads in Mason jars and salumi platters to house-made pastas. Par ticularly good for large parties. 532 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-861-2222. See Newport Beach location. $$

HABANA

We waited 22 years for this glamorous Habana sib ling, and it was worth it—a sprawling 300-seat com

pound that co-opts Cuba’s frozen-in-time splendor. A roomy patio open to the sky is made intimate by high walls and lots of beautiful props and vignettes, with alcoves dedicated to house pastries and cof fees. Despite the impressive scale, the menu hews tightly to the focused offerings at its Costa Mesa original. 708 Spectrum Center Drive, 949-419-0100. See Costa Mesa location. $$$

JA JIAOZI

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

LITTLE SISTER

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

PORCH & SWING

organic, non-GMO, blue corn masa. The cheese is especially brilliant on vegetarian tacos. Always ask about the monthly taco special. The Park Place cen ter location’s indoor-meets-outdoor venue is inti mate and color-splashed. Park Place, 3311 Michelson Drive, 949-608-7272; Los Olivos Marketplace, 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949-608-9990. $$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Sizzling Prime steaks, wet-aged from 24 to 28 days, are served topped with big pats of butter and chopped parsley. Founder Ruth Fertel grew up in New Orleans so there are crab cakes, Gulf shrimp, and sweet potato casserole. 2961 Michelson Drive, 949-252-8848. See Anaheim location. $$$

SESSIONS

No. 3 is a charm for O.C.’s indie chainlet of “West Coast” delis. Expect terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two, gourmet creations that are meticu lous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. Fromscratch soups, sides, and dressings. A beguiling lake side setting beckons for lazy breakfasts featuring Kéan coffee and house-made granola. 4736 Bar ranca Parkway, 949-333-3949. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Newport Beach locations. Fourth location (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 Newport Center Drive. $

TACO ROSA

This delightful indie serves a “taste of Charleston” starring original riffs on American classics and cocktails by Andrew Parish. Must-try dishes include roasted pork jowl over grits, amazing creamless creamed corn, and gorgeous salads. House-baked breads are a strength, too. The patio is lovely. 2010 Main St., 949-418-7988. $$

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2021

PUESTO

San Diego’s high-profile taqueria has two Irvine options for O.C. fans. Delectable tacos are the main event, elevated by crispy griddled Oax acan cheese, and tortillas made by hand from

With agave-sweetened margaritas, daily aguas fres cas, and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. Try the Oaxacan enchiladas. 13792 Jamboree Road, 714-5056080. See Newport Beach location. $$

LAGUNA BEACH

ALESSÁ BY CHEF PIROZZI

This village center magnet for robust Italian fare by chef-owner Alessandro Pirozzi boasts a bar fea turing primo versions of burrata, scamorza, and other cheese delights, as well as elite cured meats from Italy and up-and-coming domestic produc

Beet and goat cheese tortellini at Porch & Swing

ers, all hand-sliced to order. 234 Forest Ave., 949497-8222. $$

BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA

Boy wonder chef Amar Santana and indus try vet Ahmed Labbate decamped Charlie Palmer to create this sexy urban bistro. Fans old and new keep the tight quarters humming to the backdrop of an open kitchen and vintage flicks play ing on the flat-screen over the expansive bar. San tana’s dishes are opulent and intense. The wine list includes many notable half-bottles. 328 Glenneyre St., 949-715-8234. $$$

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN DE MEXICO

This is the boutique version of Rancho Santa Mar garita’s sprawling shop, but both offer top-notch Cal-Mex fare. Expect Prime beef in the steak tampiqueña, and Kurobuta pork in the wonder ful carnitas. Don’t miss costillitas—baby back ribs topped with fried onions. Outstanding margaritas. Warm, spiffy service. 217 Broadway St., 949-715-7829. See Rancho Santa Margarita location. $$ THE DRAKE

The grown-ups sipping cocktails are here for a full serving of primo live music paired with the cuisine of Paul Gstrein (ex of Bistango and Bayside). Laguna’s own Alec Glasser prevails in creating a dashing joint where both the musicians and the kitchen have serious chops. Din ers dig into Euro-inflected dishes (try the lamb lol lipops, the Alpine melt, the chile-lime swordfish). Musicians dig the highbrow sound system, and the room generates a superlative groove. 2894 S. Coast Highway, 949-376-1000. $$$

DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN

With its gorgeous seaside panorama, this place perfectly illustrates the food-versus-view gamble. Prudent choices on chef Rainer Schwarz’s seasonal menu include whole fried fish, an unusual entree pairing of butcher steak-pork belly, and tarts by pas try chef Rene Baez. Brunch items and craft drinks are good bets. 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, 949-715-7700. $$

LUMBERYARD

Veteran local restaurateur Cary Redfearn brought new life to this downtown landmark with a wel coming bar and comfort classics such as meatloaf and chicken potpie that lure tourists and villagers alike. Look for a solid happy hour. 384 Forest Ave., 949-715-3900. $$

MOZAMBIQUE

The eclectic cuisine shows influences of South Africa. Peri-peri prawns, curries, and grilled meats are best bets. The wine list includes interesting selections from South Africa and New Zealand. 1740 S. Coast Highway, 949-715-7777. $$$

NICK’S

Perched on Laguna’s prime stretch of Coast Highway, this inviting, urbane bar and grill lures grown-ups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of tasty cocktails and a compact all-day menu of com fort classics with modern twists. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and blackened halibut sand wich. Softly lit and cushily appointed, the open-air space boasts a sidewalk patio. Sociable service is notably polished. 440 S. Coast Highway, 949-3768595. See San Clemente location. $$

OLIVER’S OSTERIA

Wedged into an oddball canyon retail center, this tidy shop is chef-owner Erik De Marchi’s all-out defense of faithful fare inspired by his home turf of Italy’s Emilia-Romana region. Pastas are won

drous, but do wait to hear the daily specials that can include juicy lamb chops or crepes (crespelle) with porcini mushrooms in truffle-perfumed béchamel. Tight quarters make dining noisy when the room is full. And Oliver? He’s De Marchi’s first child, born on opening day. 853 Laguna Canyon Road, 949-715-0261. $$$

SAPPHIRE CELLAR CRAFT COOK

The latest incarnation of Laguna Beach’s historic Coast Highway venue is much bet ter than it has to be, given its bulletproof location. Upmarket, innovative American cuisine by execu tive chef Jared Cook includes irresistible weekend brunch waffles and Benedicts, classy lunch salads, and dinners that star fresh oysters and a splendid ribeye. On-site pantry for beach eats. 1200 South Coast Highway, 949-715-9888. $$$

SELANNE STEAK TAVERN

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

LAGUNA HILLS

IRONWOOD

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

LAGUNA NIGUEL

BOTTEGA ANGELINA

This chic Italian is a grand showpiece by the team behind Pizzeria Angelina. House-made pastas, roasted meats, and pizzas share a succinct menu, sup ported by sophisticated cocktails from an imposing marble bar. Vast patio with dazzling views. A piccolo store sells pantry goods and gelatos. 32441 Golden Lantern, 949-542-8220. $$$

CALO KITCHEN + TEQUILA

Chic and breezy as a Baja resort, this sprawling spot has its act together, luring local crowds for upscale Mexican classics. An unending flow of worthy mar garitas keeps the white marble bar humming while the kitchen churns out well-executed shrimp cev iche, carnitas, combo plates, and short rib enchi ladas. Huge portions, sharp service, and modern digs seal the deal. Scores of sipping tequilas delight agave fans. 28141 Crown Valley Parkway, 949-4097380. $$$

HENDRIX

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

LA HABRA

EL CHOLO

It’s combo-plate heaven at this venerable local chain that started in L.A. in 1923. The Sonora-style enchiladas are topped with olives and a fried egg. Green corn tamales (available seasonally) have

Seafood trio at Calo Kitchen + Tequila

achieved cult status. This location oozes a family vibe. 840 E. Whittier Blvd., 562-691-4618. See Ana heim Hills and Corona del Mar locations. $

MISSION VIEJO

DUBLIN 4 GASTROPUB

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

WINEWORKS FOR EVERYONE

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

NEWPORT BEACH

A RESTAURANT

This sexy old-school hangout rarely wants for busi ness, thanks to the retooling of American classics

made with hard-to-find premium goods. The stel lar burger is not on the menu or always available, but go ahead and ask. At A Market next door, the inimitable Shelly Register oversees gourmet sand wiches and to-go goodies. 3334 W. Coast Highway, 949-650-6505. Dinner only. $$$

BAYSIDE

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

BELLO BY SANDRO NARDONE

Previously of upmarket pizzeria Angelina’s, Sandro Nardone flies solo with this molto moderno Italiano overhaul of a sprawling spot. Nardone’s style is urbane, so expect no lasagna here. Instead, look for distinctive creations such as mortadella mousse cannoli with liquid pineapple mustard. Crispy octopus with Calabrian vinaigrette is another crowd favorite. Cocktails show imagination, and the wine list has some rare gems. Coming soon, Nardone’s take on hip patio brunching. 1200 Bison Ave., 949520-7191. $$$

BOUILLON

Indefatigable operator Laurent Vrigand, the founder of six Moulin cafes, debuts his first full-service res taurant—an homage to Paris’ Bouillon Chartier, his

childhood favorite. Expect one all-day menu of nos talgic fare at painless prices, no substitutions, no reservations, and snappy service. Standouts include tian Provençal, beef bourguignon, and profiter oles. 1000 N. Bristol, 949-418-9549. $$

THE CANNERY

The 1921 landmark structure has dazzled diners for more than 50 years with its waterfront site, pris tine seafood, and top chops. Executive chef Mar cus Hagan keeps the menu relevant by adding new dishes, say baked Peruvian scallops, to classics such as the trusted lobster roll. Also check out The Snug, a cozy bar downstairs, carved from the main din ing room. Dockside dining offered for boaters. 3010 Lafayette Road, 949-566-0060. $$$

CUCINA ALESSÁ

Despite the exit of its founding chef, this tratto ria maintains a solid following thanks to a veteran crew at ease with the original menu and recipes for house-made pastas, feather-light pizzas, and break fast omelets. 6700 W. Coast Highway, 949-645-2148. See Huntington Beach location. $$

CUCINA ENOTECA

Chef de cuisine Cesar Sarmiento helms the busy scratch kitchen of this Fashion Island sibling. The sprawling, lively space with its alluring garden room, hip cocktails, and fun wines supports inventive takes on classic pastas, cured meats, and creative breads. Like the Irvine location, this venue offers a retail wine boutique. Daily happy hour is a deal for tony Fashion Island. 951 Newport Center Drive, 949706-1416. See Irvine location. $$

PROMOTION

O.C. Scene

PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS

PACIFIC WINE & FOOD CLASSIC

The 4th annual Pacific Wine & Food Classic returned after a twoyear hiatus. The sold out, top-notch culinary experience highlighted world-class wines from around the world, and over 30 of Orange County’s finest food purveyors. Wine aficionados and foodies descended upon the soft sand beaches of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort to celebrate the bounty of Southern California.

Photo Credit: Anthony Ochoa and Luis Esparza

EDDIE V’S WILDFISH

Wildfish lures a loyal following. The finely calibrated menu of pristine seafood and first-class steaks keeps the glossy room and fireplace patio hop ping, especially for nightly happy hour deals when upscale locals crowd the sleek bar. Urbane service. Strong wine list. 1370 Bison Ave., 949-720-9925. $$$

FABLE & SPIRIT

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2020

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

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

Dry-aged steaks star at this red meat specialist, supported by a luxe array of seafood starters. A la carte lunch options include a filet mignon wedge salad. The sensational happy hour is one of Fashion Island’s most popular. Another house signature: an all-star wine list with more than 100 choices by the glass. 455 Newport Center Drive, 949-720-9633. $$$

GULFSTREAM

Heavenly biscuits, baked to order, and pristine oys ters, shucked to order (in season), are two reasons to visit this popular bar and restaurant. The sand-floor patio with glowing fire pit attracts singles, while the ocean-fresh fare draws foodies. If freshly caught seafood doesn’t appeal, there are terrestrial dishes such as mustard barbecue beef ribs. 850 Avocado Ave., 949-718-0188. $$$

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS

This handsome waterfront venue sounds like a liquor store, but it’s a sleeper of a full-service res taurant hiding in the swanky Lido Marina Village development. Hyper-seasonal and prettily plated, notable creations include Dory Fleet catches of the day, opulent Iberico secreto pork, a solid burger, and one glorious chocolate mousse. 3408 Via Oporto, 949-529-2784. $$

MALIBU FARM LIDO

Malibu farm girl and native Swede Helene Hen derson adds another ocean-air venue for colorful organic fare. The all-day menu boasts fat burri tos, fruit-covered grain, or yogurt bowls and savory options that include the bestseller, an outstanding fried egg sandwich with great bacon and Havarti on country toast with lemon aioli. Multigrain pan cakes are worthy, but Swedish mini pancakes with berries and cream are stupendous. 3420 Via Oporto, 949-791-2096. $$

MOULIN

Moulin is the passion project of Paris native Lau rent Vrignaud. After 30 years in the action-sports industry, he lives his longtime dream of serving bistro classics, selling oven-fresh baguettes and grab-and-go dishes, and peddling wines and other French pantry items. The unfussy bistro and patio evoke Paris at every turn. It’s O.C.’s gathering spot for expats and Francophiles. 1000 Bristol St. North, 949474-0920. Locations (not reviewed) in Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. $$

OLEA CELLAR CRAFT COOK

Eastside’s dapper dinner house is the latest offer ing from the polished crew behind sister restau rants Ironwood and Vine, a homegrown hospitality group. Fans of chef Jared Cook will recognize some familiar dishes from his sibling shops, but there are exclusives here, too. We’re mad for the opu lent duck liver terrine with bacon and bourbon, and those fine oysters baked with blue crab in tarra gon butter. Add top-notch cocktails and 50 notable wines by the glass. 2001 Westcliff Drive, 949-2876807. Dinner only. $$$

SABATINO’S LIDO SHIPYARD SAUSAGE CO.

Peter Sabatino used to deliver his mom’s sausages door to door in Chicago. Now customers come to him in Newport Beach, where he sells 300 to 400 pounds a day from his restaurant. The old-school Italian menu and comfy patio make it a relaxing spot for first dates or family dinners of pastas, sea food, and, of course, dishes loaded with his secretrecipe sausages. 251 Shipyard Way, 949-723-0621. Beer and wine. $$

SESSIONS

This busy “West Coast deli” on the peninsula crafts terrific sandwiches that eat like a meal for two. Gourmet creations with kooky names are meticu lous stacks of top ingredients with exacting ratios, so every ’wich is scrumptious to the last bite. A surfer vibe extends to hearty breakfasts at 7 a.m. daily, starring Golden State Coffee Roaster coffee. 2823 Newport Blvd., 949-220-9001. Beer and wine. See Huntington Beach and Irvine locations. Fourth loca tion (not reviewed) in Newport Beach at 101 New port Center Drive. $

SHOREBIRD

Hidden inside the Vue Newport enclave, Shorebird is invisible until you enter the airy split-level space dominated by its waterfront view. Expect contem porary American fare plus familiar side detours for sushi and tacos. Best bets include Duroc pork chop, lump crab cakes, avocado fries. 2220 Newport Blvd., 949-287-6627. $$$

SOL COCINA

Fresh, spunky flavors of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula lure the coastal crowd to this bayside cantina. A kickin’ bar with crackling fireplace serves tasty cocktails, many made from scores of artisan tequilas. 251 E. Coast Highway, 949-675-9800. $$$

SUSHI ROKU

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

TACO ROSA

With agave-sweetened margaritas and house-made churros, these flagships of the Taco Mesa chain take fresh Mex to the max. 2632 San Miguel Road, 949720-0980. See Irvine location. $$

TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR

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

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT, BAR & STORE

This local favorite strives to remain relevant. The coastal cuisine is well-executed, from a menu that keeps up with dishes such as seared scallop sliders, za’atar-crusted ahi tuna with Beluga lentils, and filet mignon flatbread. As always, drinks are inviting with a tropical theme; the mai tai is the best around. A super-sleek new patio is lighter, brighter, and big

Heirloom carrots at Fable & Spirit

ger. This is a great place to meet for happy hour. 854 Avocado Ave., 949-760-8686. $$

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

The snazzy venue overlooks the yacht and Duffy boat traffic in Newport Harbor, flaunting its water front charms with 180-degree views from two floors plus a cigar patio. The space sizzles with bonhomie— and diners who love their surf, turf, wine, and VIP treatment. Expect cosseting service from partners JC Clow, William Lewis, and executive chef Yvon Goetz. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsatian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. 3131 W. Coast Highway, 949-999-6622. See Tustin location. $$$

NEWPORT COAST

THE BEACHCOMBER

The surf’s-edge view is amazing, and the drinks and eats are good enough to keep this iconic spot packed with beachgoers. Stick with basics such as grilled artichokes, lobster club, and stuffed salmon. Executive chef Carlos Olivera oversees the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that change slightly each season. 15 Crystal Cove, 949-376-6900. $$$

BLUEFIN

Adroit chef Takashi Abe applies his considerable talents to pristine ingredients he fashions into gor geous works of edible Japanese art. His omakase is transcendent (and cheaper at lunch). The setting is suitably spare and visually soothing. Superior sake selection. 7952 E. Coast Highway, 949-715-7373. $$$

MARCHÉ MODERNE

ORANGE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2018

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

WASA SUSHI

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

ZOV’S NEWPORT COAST

This attractive shopping center offshoot of the pop ular original Zov’s in Tustin is a go-to patio cafe that lures locals with creative Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a stand out, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. 21123 Newport Coast Drive, 949-760-9687. See Tustin loca tion. $$$

BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS

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

GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

Gabbi Patrick grew up working in her family’s Mexi can restaurants, then studied at the Greystone Culi nary Academy in Napa. The menu reveals her formal training as it embraces her family’s background. With items such as gorditas al pastor (masa cakes with Kurobuta pork belly and a pineapple-onion relish), Patrick’s plates celebrate simple, honest fla vors. 141 S. Glassell St., 714-633-3038. $$

HAVEN CRAFT KITCHEN + BAR

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

O.C. Scene

CHEF MASTERS

With 35 OC chefs and a plethora of wineries participating in this year’s Chef Masters culinary extravaganza at the Festival of Arts grounds in Laguna Beach, there were 320 very happy guests. Benefiting Unconditional, a senior and special needs dog rescue, made it even more gratifying.

PROMOTION

PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS

Photo Credit: Bob Hodson and Corey Sandler

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

THE BLIND PIG KITCHEN & BAR

Lakeside seats, terrific craft cocktails, and daring fare by young chef Karl Pfleider earn local love for this rare gastro-canteen in Rancho Santa Margarita. Midweek tapas start at 3 p.m. with goodies such as steak tartare with pistachio XO sauce. But wait until 5 p.m. for the mahi-mahi with paprika mole. 31431 Santa Margarita Parkway, 949888-0072. Second location (not reviewed) in Yorba Linda, 4975 Lakeview Ave., 714-485-2593. $$

CARMELITA’S KITCHEN

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

SAN CLEMENTE

BRICK

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

NICK’S

On a prime stretch of vintage Avenida del Mar, this inviting bar and grill is just urbane enough to lure grownups who prefer to skip the surfer grub scene in favor of crackerjack cocktails and a compact allday menu of comfort classics with a modern twist. Ace bets include the steakhouse salad and black ened fish sandwich. And there’s a sidewalk patio with fireplace. 213 Avenida del Mar, 949-481-2200. See Laguna Beach location. $$

SOUTH OF NICK’S

From the festive boxes of Chiclets at the recep tion station to scores of fine-sipping tequilas at the roomy bar, this beach burg shop from the team behind Nick’s is all about hospitality and scratch cooking. Cocktails are special, so are desserts, but don’t miss the feel-good dishes such as mini-sopes, sea bass in poblano cream, and pork chile verde. 110 N. El Camino Real, 949-481-4545. Second location (not reviewed) in Laguna Beach at 540 S. Coast Hwy., 949-376-8595. $$

VINE

A decor revamp of the cozy dining room and a menu overhaul add up to impressive new heights, because owner Russ Bendel Jr. wisely gives sauce monster and executive chef Jared Cook full reign over the kitchen. Look for killer duck wings and nightly specials that tend to sell out. A garden out back only sweetens this beach burg gem. 211 N. El Camino Real, 949-361-2079. Dinner only. $$$

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

MAYFIELD

Modern, hyper-seasonal California fare meets the timeless food ways of the Middle East at this ingenious newcomer. Breezy two-story digs include a pretty quartz bar for leading-edge

cocktails. Do try fried eggplant, lamb meatballs, and shareable dips. By day, look for indulgent brunch dishes. 31761 Camino Capistrano, 949-218-5140. $$$

PUBLIC 74

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

RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ

A sweet adobe hiding in the historic Los Rios district, Ramos House Café turns out some of South County’s most delectable daytime fare. Contemporary and clever American breakfasts and lunches (brunch on weekends) have a distinct Southern accent that fits the rustic, alfresco setting with passing trains as soundtrack. Look for ethereal biscuits and crab hash. And don’t miss the killer bloody mary. 31752 Los Rios St., 949-443-1342. $$

SANTA ANA [

BENCHMARK

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

CHATO’S BAR AND GRILL

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

EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE

Deceptively bare bones, the menu offers about 20 dishes, each showcasing a regional recipe from Mexico’s distinctive territories. Don’t miss a sublime aguachile verde Also impressive: crisp tacos ahog ado in hot broth. We loved the guajillo salsa-soaked bread in the open-face pork pambazo at brunch. Inventive cocktails lean on mezcal and house-made bitters. The vintage site with soaring ceilings seats 115 and boasts modern artwork. Expect kind, unflap pable service. 301 N. Spurgeon St., 714-338-2446. $$

MIX MIX KITCHEN BAR

BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2017

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

SOUTH COAST METRO

ANQI

Tight focus on the fare makes dining at this South Coast Plaza hot spot better than ever. Executive chef Ron Lee makes delicious harmony with matriarch master chef Helene An’s spicy beef tacos and roasted New Zealand lamb rack, as well as her fabled roast crab (Tuesday only). Zen chic decor turns heads. Drinks at the dramatic bar daz zle the cocktail crowd, but try Sunday brunch for a more kickback experience, or snag a padded stool at the adjacent noodle bar. 3333 Bristol St., 714-5575679. $$$

DIN TAI FUNG

Fans happily endure long waits to satisfy their crav ing for xiao long bao, juicy pork dumplings, handpleated with care. Bowls of noodles, rice, and stacks of bamboo steamers crowd tables as diners blend

Fried burrata sandwich at Tableau Kitchen and Bar

their own aromatic dipping sauce from rich soy, black vinegar, and shreds of fresh ginger. 3333 Bris tol St., 714-549-3388. $$

HAMAMORI

Sushi master artist James Hamamori applies per suasive talent to this South Coast Plaza penthouse dazzler of a sushi bar. Son Jim is now behind the bar, too, but this heavenly venue also shows off non-sushi dishes such as uni floating in edamame puree, Kobe rissole, and miso-marinated lamb chops. Omakase is truly top-notch. 3333 Bear St., 714-850-0880. $$$

KNIFE PLEAT

South Coast Plaza’s rarefied penthouse shines ever brighter with Orange County’s newest Michelin star recipient, helmed by chef Tony Esnault and partner Yassmin Sarmadi. The Michelinacclaimed duo from Los Angeles was destined to see stars again with this radiant backdrop for Esnault’s graceful cuisine and Sarmadi’s courtly hos pitality. Look for butter-poached lobster, forest mushroom melange, and the signature legumes de saison when nature allows. Save room for Germain Biotteau’s inimitable desserts. Friday and Saturday night tasting menus are utterly indulgent. 3333 Bris tol St., 714-266-3388. Closed Sunday and Monday. $$$

PARADISE DYNASTY

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

RITTER’S STEAM KETTLE COOKING

Chef-partner Mike Ritter and crew create CajunCreole magic in 12 steam-heated steel caldrons that cook seductive versions of gumbo, chowder, and the legendary pan poast—a heady concoction of various shellfish bubbling in a rich sauce of cream, tomato, and secret spices, topped with a dome of perfect jasmine rice—that’s by far the bestselling dish. And don’t miss the mean po’ boy sandwich. 1421 W. MacArthur Blvd., 714-850-1380. Beer and wine. $$

TABLEAU KITCHEN AND BAR

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

TERRACE BY MIX MIX

Canny chef-owner Ross Pangilinan lever ages the success of his original Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in downtown Santa Ana with this min imalist aerie overlooking the stylish Bridge of Gar dens skywalk at South Coast Plaza. This venue lacks a full bar, but it has wine and beer and is open daily with ample free parking. Fans love the three-course lunch for $20, but weekend brunch with its mimosa cart beguiles, and dinner offers the best prix fixe in the center. Don’t-miss dishes include Asian ribs, hamachi crudo, and pork cheek adobo. 3333 Bear St., 657-231-6447. $$

VACA

Top chef Amar Santana and partner Ahmed Labbate return to Costa Mesa with an exuberant, singular ode to Spain. Santana offers peerless jamon Iberico, lush bomba rice for paellas, and verdant Mahon gin for cocktails. Dozens of authentic tapas beg to be tried, but do consider excellent wood-grilled steaks, dry-aged in-house. Dinner tables at prime times are scarce, so plan, wait, or aim for lunch. 695 Town Center Drive, 714-463-6060. $$$

TUSTIN

CENTRO STORICO

Old Town Tustin’s new kid on the old block transforms a vintage building into a spa ghetteria and bar, plus a back-pocket cafe. Artisan, fresh daily pasta is the latest effort from the Poz zuoli family behind Centro, the excellent micro piz zeria next door. Signature dishes include Capperi e Olive (casarecca), Aglione (bucatini), and grilled por terhouse. 405 El Camino Real., 714-258-8817. $$

CHAAK

Gabbi and Ed Patrick of Gabbi’s Kitchen chose Old Town to show off the county’s most sophisticated take on the regional fare of Mexico’s wondrous Yucatán Peninsula, naming their new location after the Mayan rain god. The dazzling space features a retractable roof and sliding Roman shades to lovely effect. Must-have dishes include sikil pec, a roasted pumpkin seed dip, as well as cochinita pibil and carne cruda. A 16-seat bar invites lingering over elaborate cocktails or a glass from an uncommonly diverse wine list. 215 El Camino Real, 657-699-3019. $$$

ROMA D’ ITALIA

Old Town’s durable red-sauce joint keeps fans com ing for family-recipe meatballs, pizzas, parmigianas, and pastas. Casual digs include the red-checked tablecloths, and shakers of crushed pepper. Good for groups and speedy work lunches. 611 El Camino Real, 714-544-0273. $

THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

The O.C. power crowd doesn’t care that this isn’t a winery, but a huge, handsome restaurant that attracts disciples of steak, wine, and cigars. They’re exactly the folks you’d expect would follow part ners JC Clow and William Lewis and executive chef Yvon Goetz. Best bets include Goetz’s signature Alsa tian “pizza” and the Colorado buffalo carpaccio. If the 7,500-bottle wine cellar isn’t enough, you can always purchase a private wine locker. 2647 Park Ave., 714-258-7600. See Newport Beach location. $$$

THE YELLOW CHILLI

The Yellow Chilli is another franchise by Sanjeev Kapoor, India’s mega-celebrity chef. The massive menu proves the master chef isn’t stingy with rec ipes, not after writing more than 150 cookbooks. Knowledgeable servers help navigate the options. Don’t miss Sham Savera, one of Kapoor’s most famous creations: open-face spinach dumplings filled with fresh white paneer that float in silky tomato gravy spiked with garlic, cardamom, and mace. 2463 Park Ave., 714-389-5280. $$

ZOV’S TUSTIN BISTRO

Fans love Zov Karamardian’s modern, cre ative way with Mediterranean flavors. Zov keeps her flagship venue fresh and stylish. Expect Cal-Med dishes such as Moroccan salmon salad, spiced lamb burger, and pomegranate baby back ribs. Desserts are a standout, as are cocktails and chic mezze starters. The patio cafe out back stays busy at lunch and weekend breakfast. 17440 E. 17th St., 714-838-8855. See Newport Coast location. $$$

YORBA LINDA

BLUE AGAVE

Southwestern favorites, from tamales to carnitas, and mole enchiladas in generous portions, keep regulars coming back. Try the Puerto Nuevo tostada with shrimp, mahi-mahi, sour cream, and raspber ries in a pumpkin seed-citrus dressing. 18601 Yorba Linda Blvd., 714-970-5095. $$

Butternut squash agnolotti at Terrace by Mix Mix

ABOVE BOARD

San Clemente skateboarding pro Ryan Sheckler discusses his new skate brand and passing the torch to the next generation. by Daniel Pearson

Tell us about your new skateboard brand, Sandlot Times.

We decided that we were going to make the best board possible for the youth coming up. The fun part has been being able to let people know that this is not another collaboration. This is my brand. It’s online right now, but it’s based in San Clemente. If you come by my skate park, to enter it you have to come through the front office, which has our store.

What is your role with Camp Woodward in Pennsylvania and Woodward West in California?

I’m the camp’s skateboard program

designer. I want to interact with the kids. I’m not just going there to do a demo and then leave. When I was a kid, I was fortunate enough to meet all the pro skateboarders I looked up to. There were a couple who wouldn’t give me the time of day, and then there were dudes like Rodney Mullen, Mike Vallely, Chad Muska, and Tony Hawk. These guys took the time to acknowledge me. I said, “If I turn

pro at skateboarding, I’m going to give my time and my attention to kids that come up to me, too”—to say, “I have time for you.”

Congratulations on announcing that you’ll soon be a first-time dad! Any other exciting plans?

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orange Coast, 1965 E. Avis Drive, Madison Heights, MI 48071. If the Postal Service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

I just released my eighth Etnies shoe. And I’m going to be competing again. I’m just super thankful. I’m thankful to Orange County for constantly supporting me, for having my back for the last— shoot, how long have I been skating now? I’ll be 33 this month, and I started skating when I was 2! Vol. 48 Issue 12 ORANGE COAST (ISSN 02790483 and USPS 360-630) and ORANGECOAST.COM are published monthly by Orange Coast Magazine LLC, 2102 Business Center Drive, Suite 125, Irvine, CA 92614. 949-862-1133. Copyright 2022 by Orange Coast Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photographs must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Periodical U.S. postage paid at Los Angeles, CA and additional entry offices. Subscription rates in continental U.S. $19.95 for 12 months. Canada, one year only $81; international, one year only $111.

TIMES GOOD TIMES FOR EVERYBODY

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