January 2023 – The Local Dish Magazine

EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE AND GENEROSITY

BY VICTORIA KERTZ

For over 20 years, Triton Air has been helping families enjoy clean air and comfortable temperatures at home. After a few hotter-than-usual summers, you might say that the Triton Team and founders Michael and Kimberly Nicolai are now genuinely saving lives in the African country of Malawi. That’s where an ambulance funded by Triton Air customers, employees, and the local community transports patients and pregnant women to give birth at a hospital. Covering the 30-mile radius of a single hospital where roads are not paved, this 4x4 ruggedized vehicle has the ability to navigate the steep and winding terrain.

This past year, the ambulance was en route to David Gordon Hospital with a woman in labor when it approached a steep leg of the journey and the baby decided it couldn’t wait. In the back of the Triton Air ambulance, over 10,000 miles away from Orange County, the woman gave birth to a healthy baby boy. The mother, whose other options to get to the hospital included walking or ox cart, was so grateful to have the assistance of EMTs and a safe, clean place to deliver that she gave the boy a truly remarkable name: Triton.

For those who know Michael and his wife Kimberly, giving and providing for those in need is their passion. In 2022, they installed free inhome systems for two recovering cancer patients, one of whom was a former hospice nurse.

Triton Air also partnered with Lennox and PW Stephens to install a free heating and duct system for a nearby women’s shelter. The facility works to bridge the gap between high school and adulthood for kids who have recently left foster homes and need a place to live.

Michael says the experience reminded him that many young people need a hand as they move into the workforce. While most Orange County parents encourage their children to attend college, Michael knows it’s not for everyone, and for some, a career as a skilled tradesperson is a much better fit. “The trades are a wonderful avenue for learning mechanics, engineering, controls, and how to communicate and connect with people,” he says.

Tradespeople are in tremendous demand and have an opportunity to impact the community while providing for a family. To answer the call, Michael created a page at tritonair.com where those with or without experience may apply. Working with heating and AC involves unique and valuable skills, and Michael wants to help launch careers in this area. “It’s so much more than installations and repairs,” he says. “If you’re honest, have character, and like working with your hands and mind, scan the code to start the conversation and explore the opportunity!”

Michael also wants to help homeowners warm their homes this winter. With chillier temperatures this time of year, he says you may hear noisy vents when running your heat at night. Here are Michael’s tips for a quieter home:

1. Turn the heat on, go to the noisy vent, and if it has an adjustment lever, try opening or closing the vent by moving the lever by as much as an inch.

DO NOT fully close the vent. Sometimes even the slightest adjustment makes a big difference in reducing the sound.

2. If adjusting the vent doesn’t help, you may want to upgrade the vent to a quieter, high-flow style.

3. Another option is to install ductrated sound reduction insulation to decrease the noise.

4. For larger rooms, consider the addition of a second vent. “We often find that adding an additional return or supply vent to master bedrooms greatly reduces noise and generates more consistent temperatures,” he says.

If you’re looking for ways to create a more peaceful home environment, call Triton Air for their expertise and integrity. Contact them for sound advice and support the generous work of a purpose-driven company. Call 949-482-2492 or visit TritonAir.com today!

BABY TRITON, DELIVERED IN THE BACK OF THE TRITON AIR AMBULANCE IN MALAWI

ST. ANNE SCHOOL

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF EDUCATING KNIGHTS FOR TOMORROW

When you walk onto St. Anne School’s campus in Laguna Niguel, you will likely hear students practicing musical instruments, laughing on the playground, or singing at weekly Mass. You might witness Grade 8 students designing a website on their MacBooks, second graders dressed in period costumes as they explore their ancestry on Ellis Island Day, preschool students engrossed in hands-on learning at their outdoor classroom, or a bus filled with Grade 5 students ready to take off on a field study’s trip to Astro Camp.

St. Anne School is an independent Roman Catholic school celebrating 30 years of providing a supportive learning environment where each child is inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development. The collaborative community of inspirational teachers, dedicated administrators, and committed parents ensures students are empowered to explore their Godgiven gifts, discover their passions, and envision

their future as a positive influence on the world.

The devoted teachers at St. Anne School are trained in differentiated instruction, using strategies that stimulate deeper thinking and discussion with students. St. Anne School continues to develop much more than a student’s academic skills. With a strong Student Support Services department, all St. Anne students benefit from a team focused on physical, personal, and mental well-being. This 11-person department also encourages character development and offers academic support for students with mild to moderate learning differences.

Students are given the freedom to explore and discover their passions and gifts through various elective classes such as orchestra, studio art, digital media production, and creative writing. A St. Anne student might also discover they are passionate about spirituality and service to others. Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church,

St. Anne School offers a vibrant Campus Ministry program where students are encouraged to participate in Christian service, class retreats, Masses, and spiritual leadership while growing a deeper connection to their faith. Afterschool programs such as the award-winning HarmonKnights show choir, the school play, and a variety of sports teams also offer opportunities for students to continue to explore and grow.

St. Anne School looks forward to celebrating its 30th school year filled with opportunities for students to explore their gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future.

To schedule a private tour or learn more about St. Anne School, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949.371.9932.

ST. ANNE SCHOOL 32451 Bear Brand Road | Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 | www.st-anne.org

OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL AND INFANT

CENTER

LOVE, LEARN, SERVE

Conveniently located in San Clemente, Our Savior's Lutheran School (OSLS) is a developmental, play-based, Reggio-inspired, Christian Preschool and Infant Center. Our Savior's is a close-knit family that understands and values exceptional education, equipping children to be positive members of their community.

OSLS is committed to excellence through a creative and energizing curriculum, with a strong social, emotional, and Christ-centered foundation. Curriculum is modeled around Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences. It's highly qualified and inspirational staff provide a quality educational experience. All OSLS families receive constant communication regarding their child's growth, supported by assessments and progress reports along with parent-teacher conferences. This partnership facilitates an extension of the child's day into the home and bridges the learning opportunities both at school and beyond.

Our Savior's Lutheran School provides a unique opportunity for children to be engaged in a developmentally appropriate environment with a child-centered approach. The preschool team designs their curriculum and lesson plans starting with the California Preschool Learning Foundations, customizing instruction based on the child's individualized goals and needs. These developmentally appropriate practices and classroom experiences intentionally foster exposure to the world around the child and capture the many moments of curiosity. Throughout the day, OSLS teachers guide student learning individually and in groups to explain, educate, and empower the children, encouraging them to ask questions and explore their learning environment. They understand that every child develops at their own pace while being committed to continuous growth and excellence in all levels of early childhood education. With a long-term education in mind, OSLS's most important goal is to foster and encourage a love of learning.

The Infant Center has two large, ocean view rooms with highly qualified and loving teachers. Instructors work with each family to ensure a smooth transition from home to school. They use the Brightwheel app which will keep you updated on your child’s day, routine, feeding schedule, naps as well as receive pictures and messages.

To find out more about Our Savior's Lutheran Preschool and Infant Center, please call the school at 949.492.6165 or email the Director, Amy Rivas, at a.rivas@oursaviorsschool.net. Follow on instagram @osls_sanclemente.

CAPISTRANO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (CUSD)

Capistrano Unified is continually innovating and adding hands-on based learning to prepare our students from preschool through high school to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. This school year, the district expanded its iCan labs to elementary schools as an extension of the current middle and high school STEM Career Paths. Implemented at every elementary, these labs lead K-5 students to discover possible future careers through innovative, 21st century tech tools that engage all students in their educational experience.

Through CUSD’s joint partnership with College and Career Advantage (CCA), students can explore 31 career pathways, beginning in elementary school. CCA provides high-quality Career Technical Education to grades K-12. Subject areas include Robotics, 3D Printing and Fabrication, Coding, Engineering, Biotechnology, Fire Science, Actors Repertory, Aviation, Automotive Technology, and more.

To ensure graduates have multiple opportunities for college, military, career readiness, and independent living, CUSD places a strong emphasis on the integration of student well-being and emotional support, supportive and collaborative learning, and cultural diversity. School counselors and psychologists support social, emotional, behavior, and academics to ensure that every learner can be successful. Counselors provide academic, college and personal counseling on all campuses.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXCELLENCE

• California Distinguished and National Blue-Ribbon Schools

• Best Communities for Music Education Designation from the NAMM Foundation for outstanding commitment to music education

• Visual & Performing Arts dedicated to artistic excellence

• Championship caliber athletic programs

ELEMENTARY

• Class size reduction

• Full and Half-Day Preschool Programs (Ages 3-5)

• Transitional and Full-day Kindergarten

• Spanish and Mandarin Language Immersion (Beginning in Preschool)

• Award-winning TK-12 general mu-

sic, instrumental & choral instruction

• Gifted and Advanced Learners (GATE)

SECONDARY

• College and Career Advantage Partnership

• High School Specialized Academies

• College @ Capo: College credit courses taught by Saddleback College faculty on high school campuses

• Futureology helps students navigate the college & career track

• International Baccalaureate Programs

• Advanced Placement Courses

• Career Technical Education (CTE) Labs

• FIRST® Robotics: FTC and FRC Competition Teams

KINDERGARTEN

KINDERGARTEN LANGUAGE IMMERSION PROGRAM

MARINA VIEW PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Studies have shown that children attending preschool do significantly better academically, developmentally and socially compared to children who do not enroll in a preschool. However, the simple fact of attending preschool does not guarantee any immediate or life-long benefits. The quality of a preschool is the critical factor.

Marina View Preschool & Kindergarten was established over 25 years ago and in December 2012 had a change of ownership due to the previous owner’s retirement. The school is now owned and directed by Reshma Morey, a mother of two boys and an educator with over 17 years of teaching experience. The school cares for children ages 12 months to six years and provides a healthy balance of academics and a developmental program. The school offers an Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Junior K and K program. The school’s philosophy is to offer a strong, child-centered learning environment that educates the whole child: intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Marina View’s vision is to create a love of learning in children that lasts a lifetime.

Marina View offers a rigorous academic curriculum that exceeds the California Core Standards in the Junior K and K classes and includes formal Spanish instruction. Mrs. Morey has also embarked on creating a sense of community amongst the parents by having events at the school such as the annual “Back to School Night,” Open House, Halloween Parade, Winter Holiday Recital, Father’s Day and Mother’s Day celebrations, Kindergarten Science Fair, and “Masters of Art” Show. There are a number of additional events scheduled for 2023 as well!

Over the years, Marina View has built an impeccable reputation by having an effective and proven school curriculum and an attractive and safe school facility. The school provides a developmentally appropriate curriculum taught by long-tenured, degreed, and credentialed teachers and offers an introduction to Spanish in all classes, Learning Centers focused on math, art, reading, and science, and Enrichment classes in Gymnastics, Dance, and Spanish.

If you are considering a preschool for your child, Marina View Preschool should definitely be on your list.

Please call (949) 249-8687 to schedule a tour today or just stop by to visit the facility at your convenience.

ST. EDWARD THE CONFESSOR PARISH SCHOOL

A DYNAMIC SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

St. Edward the Confessor Parish School is a preschool through eighth grade campus within the Diocese of Orange, sharing in the mission of the Roman Catholic Church to live the Gospel message by building Catholic identity through a Sacramental life of service to God, family, parish and community.

CHARACTER

St. Edward students are #alwayslearning. The faculty and staff are dedicated to preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. St. Edward develops resilient, innovative and confident students. We strive to help our students grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and emotionally within a Christcentered environment.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Consistent with Diocesan curriculum guidelines, St. Edward Parish School follows the Common Core State Standards for English and math and the California Next Generation Science Standards. We are first and foremost a

Catholic school. All curriculum seeks to educate the whole child, forming their spiritual, intellectual, personal and social capacities through academic, religious, faith formation, service and co-curricular programs which prepares students for success in high school, college and career. Teachers use differentiated instruction, engage students through meaningful hands-on experience and cultivate curiosity and creativity.

COMMUNITY

Faith and academics are at the core of the school, but the community is the heart. Special events such as Family Movie Night, Monarch Main Event and Community Coffee highlight just some of the ways our school community comes together. Parents are involved in the school, from volunteering at events on campus to coaching after school sports and attending weekly Mass.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT

St. Edward prepares students to meet the spiritual and moral challenges of the future by provid-

ing opportunities to develop and strengthen Catholic values. Students pray daily, attend Mass weekly, participate in service projects and provide mentorship through Prayer Partners.

CREATIVITY

Through Art, Music and dynamic Makerspace classes, St. Edward students are able to develop and explore their talents and imagination. The Makerspace studio integrates technology, engineering and innovation providing students opportunities to apply project based solutions to real world situations. St. Edward offers a variety of after school programs and sports to further engage students interests and curiosity.

MATHNASIUM

THE MATH LEARNING CENTER

Mathnasium Learning Centers slogan is simple: “We make math make sense!” Whether your child starts out far behind or is ahead in math, Mathnasium helps students advance because they know that any child can be successful in math—it is a matter of teaching it in a way that makes sense to them.

The experienced math tutors utilize proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium Method™. This instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop an understanding and build a love for math. Students are evaluated with a written and verbal assessment unique to Mathnasium to deliver a customized learning plan. Based on the results, Mathnasium develops an individually tailored program designed to address each student’s specific needs and close any educational gaps they may have so they can jump ahead and be ready for advanced math challenges.

Students engage with their instructors in a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written exercises. Basic math concepts and skills are specifically designed to help students build number sense. Mathnasium’s proven technique does more than just meet state math standards; it surpasses the recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards.

Instructors also help students understand their homework as part of each session and can prepare your child for school tests, as well as standardized tests such as the California High School Exit Exam, SAT, ACT and ISEE.

If math is a problem, Mathnasium can solve it. At Mathnasium, students grow more excited and confident about math—and their

grades reflect that. For students who already excel in math, the sky’s the limit. All students will discover that doors open to them by being proficient in math and how math can be applied to interesting areas such as computer science, biology, and psychology.

By giving your child a firm foundation—and confidence—in math, Mathnasium can unlock the potential for continued educational success in the future.

PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR THE NEXT LEVEL OF MATH CHALLENGES WITH

MATHNASIUM

At Mathnasium, we believe that every child has the ability to be successful in math—it’s a matter of teaching the way that makes sense to them. When math makes sense, kids excel—whether they’re far behind or eager to get ahead.

For more than a decade, the Mathnasium Method™ has transformed the way kids in grades 2–12 understand and appreciate math. We build math knowledge upon what they already know—this helps kids learn quickly and boosts their confidence right away. When math makes sense, grades improve, excitement grows, and doors open!

STRATFORD SCHOOL

WHEN YOU BALANCE LEARNING WITH PLAY… THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS!

At Stratford School, high expectations yield extraordinary results. The advanced yet intentionally balanced curriculum starts as early as preschool to inspire and nurture the minds and hearts of every student. From the outset, the school simplifies challenging concepts, then accelerates learning to enable students to study ahead of grade level, develop a love of learning, and prepare for the future.

From Preschool through Grade 8, Stratford’s curriculum is infused with sequential instruction in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics — “STEAM” — to help students develop a diverse set of problem-solving skills and talents they’ll need in today’s world. We accomplish this through a unique cross-disciplinary approach that enhances critical thinking, integrates ideas from multiple subjects, and ultimately expands student learning.

Beginning in Preschool, Stratford’s curriculum is designed to develop the cognitive, so-

cial, emotional, and physical building blocks. Hands-on, multi-sensory activities, including the Imaginative STEAM Play, encourage preschoolers to play and share with others, while developing their self-confidence, so each child discovers the joy and excitement of learning.

In Elementary, the accelerated core curriculum exceeds the National Standardized ERB Results and motivates students to become critical thinkers and proficient writers. This balanced approach imparts students with not only a well-rounded education; it fosters the development of strong friendships, effective study skills, and blossoming self-confidence.

Middle School continues the Stratford tradition of excellence. The faculty prepare and mentor students for placement in honors and advanced courses at top-tier private and public high schools. Stratford’s intentional approach to educating the whole child results in young adults who are gifted communicators,

skilled, generous collaborators, creative problem-solvers, and confident, insightful leaders.

The caring and passionate teachers cultivate a fun and nurturing classroom environment, where high expectations encourage students to try new things with confidence and enthusiasm. They present a broad spectrum of learning opportunities. They engage students. They invite questions. They encourage students to collaborate. Consequently, students laugh a lot, and learn even more.

Learn more about Stratford’s Mission Viejo campus by visiting online or scheduling a tour at StratfordMissionViejo.com.

WHEN YOU SPARK THE NATURAL CURIOSIT Y OF A CHILD

SCC Dance

From beginners to the professional level, SCC’s adult and teen programs are helping to shape and change lives in our community and beyond through the power of dance. SCC strongly believes in the lifelong benefits of dance as one of the most joyful ways of connecting to the body, mind, and spirit. Their programs offer an array of dance genres and opportunities to embrace physical activity, creative exploration, mental strengthening, and self-fulfillment. Under the direction of Mr. Dougie Styles and leadership of expert instructors, SCC is expanding its dance culture through film production, industry prep coaching, and lifestyle movement classes. SCC is a huge advocate of dance and its ability to bring people together, because “everyBodymoves” to the rhythm of life. (see p. 18)

Hydration Room

Hydration Room offers customized vitamin IV and vitamin injection therapies to help you be healthy— inside and out. Treatments focus on health and wellness at the cellular level, including vitamin IV and injection therapy. High-quality, nutrient solutions are available for everything from increased energy or an immune system boost to therapies that help with chronic illnesses. Overseen by Dr. Brett Florie, the team of expert medical professionals knows how to help you achieve maximum health and wellness. The 17 locations offer a menu of 25+ different vitamin IV and injection therapy blends, in addition to the cutting-edge longevity treatment NAD+ IV Therapy and regenerative medicine therapies. Visit HydrationRoom.com to learn more. (see p. 19)

Sweat House OC

Sweat House OC invites you to check out one of Orange County’s hottest workouts!

Voted #1 in Orange County, the studio uses the Lagree Fitness Method and is the only licensed studio in San Clemente and Mission Viejo to offer the trendy Megaformer workout. Providing constant resistance, the Megaformer effectively combines strength, endurance, cardio, balance, core, and flexibility, not only in one session, but in each and every move. Try one of these new client specials: a 5 pack for $59 or a first time private class for $50! Experience for yourself why celebrities and athletes around the world are addicted and just can’t get enough of Lagree Fitness. All levels welcome. (see p. 18)

Studio A

Studio A is a space created for and dedicated to mindful movement and holistic wellness, presenting specialized and certified instruction in the arts of Pilates and Yoga. It offers an array of classes: The MELT Method, Barre Fusion, Yoga, and Pilates Equipment classes. Clients and students are guided according to their individual strengths and challenged through functional, integrated methods of movement in order to attain a healthy relationship between mind, body and spirit. Studio A clients may choose from group class settings, semi-private duet sessions or one-on-one private instruction. Studio A also provides an inviting atmosphere with professional equipment, calming tones and textures as well as organized, clean surroundings. (see p. 21)

Spa at the mission

A new year, a new you! Join Spa at the Mission for Yoga on the Spa Deck and “hit the reset button” for an exciting New Year. Classes start this month, on Fridays and Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Pilates will be offered every other Saturday. These classes will be donationbased, and all levels of experience are welcome. Following the class, treat yourself to a body treatment or facial offered by world-class therapists. Visit SpaAtTheMission.com for more information. (see p. 18)

perspire Sauna Studio

Perspire Sauna Studio’s infrared sauna combines the centuries-old practice of sauna with the modern science of infrared technology and red light therapy. This holistic wellness approach helps invigorate and refresh the body and mind. The infrared heat cleanses the body of toxins and releases tension, and color light restores balance. Additional benefits include easing pain, improving and clearing skin, burning calories, promoting sleep and enhancing the immune system. The experience includes a private room with various light therapy options, premium entertainment, and temperature settings. Book your first session online for $20. Visit PerspireSaunaStudio.com for more information. (see p. 21)

Trestles Chiropractic

Treatments offered at Trestles Chiropractic are as varied and unique as the conditions they address. When it comes to spinal adjustments, Trestles utilizes the diversified technique, which involves using manual pressure to restore proper movement. Traditional and state-of-theart chiropractic devices provide lower force techniques for patients with conditions like osteoporosis. Laser therapy is also available for those suffering from joint and soft tissue injuries. Whether you want to improve your golf swing, or just want relief from pain and discomfort, Trestles Chiropractic has a treatment solution for you. (see p. 31)

Choice Juicery

Start your New Year off right with an Organic 3-Day Cleanse. Choice Juicery has the best cleanse on the market. Reset your taste buds, kick bad habits, increase your energy, clear up your skin, balance your moods and boost your immune system with 3 days of raw, organic, cold pressed juice and food. They do all the work, so you can sip and eat your way to better health. Mention this editorial and get one of their famous protein smoothies free when you sign up for the three day cleanse. Offer valid through January. (see p. 41)

Family Sundays Casa Romantica SC 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

Bills vs. Bengals OC Tavern SC 5:15 p.m.

Bottomless

Mimosa Brunch

Kim Johnson BeachFire SC 2 p.m.

NFL PLAYOFFS

San Juan Hills Golf Club

SJC 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (see p. 24)

RED ENVELOPE GIVEAWAYS

Outlets at San Clemente SC 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. (see p. 24)

SUNDAY BRUNCH Inn at the Mission SJC 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (see pp. 18, 40)

Sundried Tomato SJC 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. OPEN HOUSE Our Lady of Fatima SC 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (see p. 13) OPEN HOUSE

MLK JR. DAY SALES

Outlets at San Clemente SC 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (see p. 24)

JANUARY 2023 ST. ANNE SCHOOL

Now Accepting Applications 32457 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel 949.371.9932

Teen Makerspace

Restaurant p.m.

Casa Storytime

Casa Romantica SC 10:30 a.m.

Poul Pederson BeachFire SC 4 p.m.

Senior Sit ‘n Fit

Exercises

Community Center SJC 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Wine Down Wednesdays

Tannins SJC 3 – 9 p.m.

Feet Wednesday

San Clemente Library

SC 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

p.m.

WEDNESDAYS Golf Club p. 24)

Casa Yoga

Casa Romantica SC 9:15 a.m.

Library

Live Music Thursdays

Barnoa Wine Bar SC 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

SUSHI TIME!

Cooking Class Heat Culinary LN 6:30 p.m. (see p. 24)

Queen Nation

The Coach House SJC 8 p.m.

Will & Gary BeachFire SC 7 p.m.

Mobile Library & Family Storytime Community Center LN 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

A Sage in Every Garden Interpretive Center DP 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. 5

a.m.

Karaoke Paddy’s Station SJC 7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

Karaoke

Patsy’s Irish Pub LN 9 p.m.

Orianthi

The Coach House SJC 8 p.m.

LEBANESE MEZZE!

Cooking Class Heat Culinary LN 6:30 p.m. (see p. 24)

Kids Movie & Make Dana Point Library DP 10:30 a.m. Gentle Reads Book Group Dana Point Library DP 10:30

Fuel’s Brett Scallions

The Coach House SJC 8 p.m.

Kids Coloring Club Dana Point Library DP 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sensory Playtime San Clemente Library SC 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC IN THE PLAZA Outlets at San Clemente SC 12 p.m. (see p. 24)

Macy Gray

The Coach House SJC 8 p.m.

Will & Gary BeachFire SC 7 p.m.

Common Sense

The Coach House SJC 8 p.m.

Coffee & Concerts

Laguna Niguel Library LN 4 p.m. 21

Casa Romantica SC 10 – 11 a.m.

UFC NIGHT OC Tavern SC 6 p.m.

Leading Ladies Cabrillo Playhouse SC 7:30 p.m.

Outlets at San Clemente SC 9 – 11 a.m. (see p. 24)

Friday Flix

Downton Abbey: A New Era 2022 Sea Country Center LN 1 – 3 p.m.

28

THE REFLEXX

OC Tavern SC 8 p.m.

Leading Ladies Cabrillo Playhouse SC 7:30 p.m.

7 ACCESS SMOG Avery Parkway Mission Viejo • (949) 364-6784 + Cert $8.25 1995 & older $10 Extra SUV, Trucks, Vans add $5 With this ad. Expire 1/31/23. Not valid Sundays. CHECK NEWER CARS $34.75 $29.75 (No Appointment Necessary) 4 LOCATIONS

Noche de Gala Benefit for San Juan Schools Marbella CC SJC 6 – 11 p.m.

Foreign Film: Hinterland Dana Point Library DP 2 – 4 p.m.

Comedy Night Camino Real Playhouse SJC 7:30 p.m.

Robert Cray

LASER SESSIONS

Eric Bollmann,

YSIDO

BY DINA SCAGLIONE

“Mi casa es su casa” is clearly more than a charming platitude at Ysidora. From the moment you enter the Inn at the Mission’s showcase restaurant, you feel yourself instantly unwind, soothed by the warm colors and inviting textures, lured by the earthy scents of grilled fare and the lull of soft mood music beckoning you to stay awhile.

From fresh harvested seafood to locally raised meats and seasonal produce, Ysidora evokes something of another time. Committed to supporting local businesses and taking the “a rising tides lifts all boats” philosophy, their commitment to family, heritage and hospitality is undeniable. Snuggle up to the enormous fireplace, sink into cushiony oversized couches and allow yourself to drift away with a specialty cocktail in hand. Don’t let the exquisitely detailed blend of traditional and transitional decor fool you. Ysidora is an accessible haven for tourists and locals alike — seeking tasty diversity in their culinary adventures.

The incomparable list of starters includes the usual suspects, but amongst those standouts is a ribeye carpaccio with fresh watercress, chimichurri sauce and truffle oil, capped with thin shavings of Manchego for a melt-inyour-mouth experience. The bacon steak al pastor pork belly, adorned with an abode chimichurri sauce and herb infused oil, is crispy and full of texture. Mainstays include the seasoned-to-perfection Grilled Octopus — tender and smoky, paired with an unexpected, but apropos side of potato salad. The Hangar steak is flavorful and juicy, complemented by a tasty pinto bean sauce. Another comfort food favorite is the lean, but generously portioned double cut pork chop with cabernet molasses. When it comes to dessert, I would highly recommend the homemade to-die-for butter cake, served slightly warm and topped with marinated berries and whipped cream.

With its welcoming ambiance and delectable cuisine, escape is within reach at Ysidora. Come for the food, stay awhile, and take in a slice of local history. In its contemporary upbeat atmosphere, locals and tourists alike will enjoy an eclectic array of thoughtfully curated selections and familiar comfort foods in one inviting space.

Ysidora is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Outdoor entertainment, on the expansive mission-themed patio, happens Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Don’t miss the hearty Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Laguna Hills 26534 Moulton Pkwy 949.238.8700 CORNER OF LAPAZ/MOULTON