2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
CO N T E N TS Eateries, Watering Holes and More Best… Appetizers • 3 Bagel • 3 Bar • 4 Billiards • 8 Breakfast • 3 Breakfast Burrito • 3 Burger • 6 Cup of Coffee or Tea • 4 Donut • 4 Happy Hour • 4 International Eats • 4 Lunch Spot • 4 Margarita • 6 Menu for Healthy Choices • 4 Overall Restaurant • 6 Pizza • 3 Restaurant for a Date/Romantic Evening • 6 Sandwich • 6 Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth • 6 Sushi • 6 Taco • 3 Venue for Live Music • 3
At the Shops Best… Antiques • 8 Arts and Craft Supplies • 8 Clothing • 8 Home Decor and Furnishings • 10 Jewelry • 10 Kids Apparel & Toys • 10 Place to Buy Flowers • 10 Place for Buying and Viewing Art • 10 Store to Buy the Perfect Gift • 10 Surfboard Shaper • 8 Surf Shop • 8 Wine Selection • 8
Services on the To-Do List
Welcome to the fourth annual SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice “Ole Awards,” our annual celebration of San Clemente’s favorite businesses, services and places. The only “Best of” awards of its kind in San Clemente and Orange County, the SC Times “Ole Awards” are 100 percent selected by you, the readers, through online polls and mailed ballots. It is our way of helping all of our local businesses by helping promote the notion of shopping locally and taking advantage of all of the great businesses and services available to us here in San Clemente. It’s our own little stimulus package, if you will, and you, the reader, helped make it happen! This year we had the biggest response yet—almost 3,000 ballots were filled out and sent in over the last month. After carefully counting all the votes, we have packaged them up in this handy pullout section that you can keep next to your phone or computer to help you when you’re looking for a place to try for dinner, or a dry cleaner, or home furnishings. Make sure to look for the distinctive Gold and Silver Ole Award stickers in the windows of all of our winners and tell them you read about them (or maybe even voted for them) in the SC Times. We’ll also post this entire pullout section available online at www.sanclementetimes.com for the entire year. So, without further ado, the SC Times proudly presents your People’s Choice “Ole Awards” for 2009: Four-time winner Surfin’ Donuts. Photo by Sara Borman
Best… Barber Shop • 10 Car Repair • 12 Dry Cleaner • 12 Pet Care & Grooming • 12 Gym • 12 Hair Salon • 12 Lodging • 12 Manicure & Pedicure • 12 Spa for Massages, Etc. • 14 Surfboard Ding Repair • 12 Yoga/Pilates Studio • 14
Getting Outside Best… Beach • 14 Golf Course • 14 Park to Take the Kids • 14 Place to Take Out-of-Towners • 14 Surf Break • 14
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
Silver Ole
SC CAFÉ
1810 S. El Camino Real, Ste. A, 949.366.0626
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Bagel Shack • Beach Garden Café • BeachFire • Burger Stop • Café Mimosa • Café Calypso • Café del Sol • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Carrows • Corky’s • Crispins • Denny’s • Eli Mariachi • Fisherman’s • Gordon James • IHOP • Irons by the Fire • Jack in the Box • La Galette Creperie • La Siesta • La Tiendita • Love Burger • McDonalds • Peet’s • Olamendi’s • Pedro’s Tacos • Pipe’s Café • Rose’s Donuts • Sandwich Buddies • Starbucks • Sugar Shack • Sunshine Café • Surfin Donuts • Talega Golf Club • Tommy’s Diner 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Antoine’s; Silver: SC Café
BEST VENUE FOR LIVE MUSIC
Golden Ole
OC TAVERN
2369 S. El Camino Real, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com
For years, San Clemente music lovers complained about the lack of a real concert venue for live music in town. Clearly that concern is no longer, as OC Tavern has filled the void and earned the Golden Ole for three straight years. Featuring a special concert hall along with a full bar and restaurant area, OC Tavern has become an important stop for national acts as well as local bands.
Silver Ole
BEACHFIRE BAR & GRILL
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com
NOMINEES: Beach Hut • Blue Danube • Casa Romantica • Duke’s • Fisherman’s • Goody’s Tavern • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Iva Lee’s • Knucklehead’s • Molly Bloom’s • Sunsets • Taka-O • The Cellar 2008 WINNERS: Gold: OC Tavern; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill
BEST APPETIZER
Golden Ole
Silver Ole
BEST BREAKFAST BURRITO
Silver Ole
2313 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908; www.pedrostacos.com
Golden Ole
PEDRO’S TACOS
2313 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908; www.pedrostacos.com
Whether it’s the legendary Pedro’s fish taco or tasty favorites such as the carne asada or shrimp tacos, Pedro’s has a stranglehold on the Golden Ole for “Best Taco” in San Clemente. For the fourth straight year, readers have picked Pedro’s as their favorite spot for a taco—no small feat given the number of competitors in town.
Silver Ole
Breakfast hotspots: Antoine’s Cafe and Pedro’s Tacos. Photos by Sara Borman
BEST PIZZA
202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450
BEST TACO
AVILA’S EL RANCHITO
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.net
NOMINEES: Baja Fresh • Café del Sol • Charo Chicken • Chato’s • Chronic Tacos • Dave’s Mexican • Del Agave • Del Taco • Duke’s • El Jefe • El Mariachi • El Patio • El Pollo Loco • Fisherman’s • Island Style Tacos • Jack in the Box • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Siesta • La Tiendita • Las Golandrinas • Olamendi’s • Pacific Seafood Grill • Romance • Rubios • Taco Bell • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: Chronic Tacos
SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards
110 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.9100, www.gordonjamesgrill.com
BEST BAGEL
THE GRILL AT SURFIN’ DONUTS
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Beach Garden Café • BeachFire • Billy’s Deli • Burger King • Burger Stop • Café Calypso • Café Del Sol• San Onofre • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Carl’s Jr. • Chronic Taco • Corky’s • Dave’s Mexican • Del Taco • Kelly’s Donuts • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Siesta • La Tiendita • Los Golandrinas • McDonalds • Mr. Pete’s • Olamendi’s • Pipe’s Café • Rose’s Donuts • Rubios • San Clemente Café • Sandwich Buddies • Stillwater Café • Sugar Shack • Sunrise Café • Surfin Donuts • Taco Bell • Tommy’s Diner 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: The Grill at Surfin Donuts
GORDON JAMES
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bad to the Bone • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • The Cellar • Cucina Pizzeria • Daphne’s Greek • Del Agave • Duke’s • El Mariachi • Fisherman’s • Hapa J’s • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Melting Pot • Molly Bloom’s • Mongkut Thai • Mr. Pete’s • OC Tavern • Olamendi’s • Pacific Seafood Grill • Pizza Port • Rib Trader • Romance • Romano’s • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sundried Tomato • Sunsets • Taka-O • Village Mediterranean • Vine 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Gordon James, BeachFire; Silver: Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria
PEDRO’S TACOS
Piping hot, delicious and inexpensive, Pedro’s has been serving up your favorite breakfast burritos since 1986. Two locations in town—one north and one south on El Camino Real—offer early morning crawlers five different breakfast burrito options. Pedro’s isn’t flashy—if you’ve never been, don’t expect cloth linens. It’s simply great food, quick, cheap and tasty. Both locations have drive-throughs for those on the move.
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com
The Coconut Shrimp. Vegetable Bali Rolls. Ahi tuna stack. Fried calamari with special chili dipping sauce. Yup, it’s no wonder BeachFire continues to dominate the Best Appetizer category of the Golden Ole Awards with a lineup like that. Owners Dave and Allison Donaldson have created a fun, inviting setting for great dining, drinking and entertainment.
EATERIES, WATERING HOLES and MORE
Golden Ole
BEACHFIRE BAR & GRILL
Golden Ole
SONNY’S PIZZA & PASTA
429 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.2540; www.sonnys.com
As it enters its 30th year serving San Clemente, Sonny’s grabs back the Golden Ole for “Best Pizza” having won it in 2006, then surrendering it to Selma’s for the past two years. Known for its handmade thin crust pizza specialties such as the “Roman Orgy” and “Sonny’s White Pizza,” Sonny’s pizza can be enjoyed at the restaurant or take out.
Silver Ole
SELMA’S CHICAGO PIZZERIA 218 Avenida Del Mar, 949.276.2828, www.selmaschicagopizzeria.com
Golden Ole
BAGEL SHACK
777 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0745
With a huge variety of bagels made on premises, Bagel Shack is San Clemente’s favorite bagel place for three years running. Mix and match your selections from the self-serve bagel bins or order a bagel sandwich with names such as Lowers and Cottons. A variety of cream cheeses are also available.
Silver Ole
CAPTAIN MAURI’S COUNTER CULTURE 149 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.8098
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Albertson’s • Antoine’s Café • Bagel Shack • Café Calypso • Café Expresso • Coffee Bean & Tea • Corky’s • Fisherman’s • Frugurt • Juice Stop • Kelly’s Donuts • Pipe’s Café • Ralph’s • Rose’s Donuts • Sandwich Buddies • Starbucks • Sunrise Cafe • Surfin Donuts 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Bagel Shack; Silver: Gourmet Bagel Company
NOMINEES: First Class • 2 for 1 • Albertson’s • Ball Park • Cassano’s • Cucina Pizzeria • Domino’s • Fratello’s • Guichos • Italian Cravings • Izza Pizza • La Rocco’s • New York Pizza • Papa Murphy’s • Pizza Hut • Pizza Port • Romano’s • Round Table • San Clemente Pizza • Stuft Pizza • Z Pizza 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria; Silver: Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta
BEST BREAKFAST
Golden Ole
ANTOINE’S CAFE
218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com
It’s a third-straight Golden Ole for Antoine’s and owners Antoine and Veronique Price. The cozy, wood-paneled Cheers-like spot featuring a variety of seating options—bar, table, booth and patio—offers weekday specials such as Eggs Benedict, biscuits and gravy and California melts. Expect a wait on weekends—yes, it’s that good.
The Bagel Shack. Photo by Sara Borman 3
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
BEST BAR
Golden Ole
GORDON JAMES GRILL
110 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.9100, www.gordonjamesgrill.com
The bar at Gordon James Grill is warm and welcoming, offering customers not only a full-range of beverages, but also the full restaurant menu. The weekends mean live music, while the weekdays offer up a variety of happy hour specials.
Silver Ole
FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.fishermansrestaurant.com
NOMINEES: Avila’s El Ranchito • BeachFire • Beach Hut • Big Helyn’s • Café 207 • Crispin’s • Duke’s • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Iron’s in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Izza Pizza • Knuckleheads • La Siesta • Molly Bloom’s • Mulligan’s • OC Tavern • Pizza Port • Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • Romance • San Clemente Wine Company • The Shore • Sundried Tomato • Sunsets • Taka-O • The Cellar • Vine 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Gordon James; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill
BEST COFFEE/TEA
Golden Ole
STARBUCKS
300 S. El Camino Real, 949.369.9520; 1001 Avenida Pico, 949.369.5649; 638 Camino de los Mares, 949.496.5900; www.starbucks.com
San Clemente voters once again selected Starbucks as their favorite coffee shop, and with three locations to choose from (not counting the ones inside the two Albertson’s grocery stores on Avenida Pico), Starbucks certainly has the city covered. Now you can get hot breakfast sandwiches and wraps to go with that hot cup of Joe.
Silver Ole
ANTOINE’S CAFÉ
218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com
NOMINEES: 7-11 • Adele’s • Aloha Coffee Hut • Bagel Shack • Beach Garden Café • Café Calypso • Café del Sol • Café Expresso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Coffee Bean & Tea • Crispin’s • Fisherman’s • Irons in the Fire • Jack in the Box • Kaylani Coffee • La Galette Creperie • Lavender Lounge • McDonald’s • Mobil • Olamendi’s • Peet’s Coffee • Pipe’s Café • Posh Pheasant • Romance • Rose’s Donuts • Salon Zinnia • San Clemente Café • Surfin Donuts • Tommy’s Diner 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Starbucks; Silver: Coffee Bean& Tea
BEST DONUT
Golden Ole
SURFIN’ DONUTS
1822 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1249; 202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450
Donut lovers know Surfin’ Donuts has a huge selection of donuts, muffins and other baked goods, but true aficionados also know that the coffee selection is equally impressive. A second location (albeit with a slightly different name—The Grill at Surfin’ Donuts) further north on El Camino Real has a more expansive menu.
Silver Ole
S.C. DONUTS
806 E. Avenida Pico, Ste. G, 949.498.7837
NOMINEES: 7-11 • Burgers and Donuts • Hector’s Bakery • Kelly’s Donuts • Rose’s Donuts • Starbucks • Stella Lucy 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Surfin’s Donuts; Silver: S.C. Donuts
Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar. Photo by Sara Borman
Golden Ole
FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.fishermansrestaurant.com
Happy Hour at Fisherman’s truly is a San Clemente tradition. Located on the San Clemente Pier, Fisherman’s offers its clients a one-of-a-kind experience off its open-air deck with sunset-facing views over the Pacific Ocean. Their Sunset Hour Happy Hour (4 p.m. to 7 p.m. weeknights) features a different special every weekday (except holidays). The favorites: Rib night (Tuesday) and Steak Taco (Thursday) nights along with special drinks each day.
Silver Ole
GORDON JAMES
110 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.9100, www.gordonjamesgrill.com
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Agostino’s • Avila’s El Ranchito • BeachFire • Big Helyn’s • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Del Agave • Dukes • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Iron’s in the Fire • Iva Lee • Melting Pot • Molly Bloom’s • Mulligan’s • OC Tavern • Ole’s Tavern • Pizza Port • Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • Romance • San Clemente Wine Company • Sea Smoke • Sundried Tomato • Sunsets • Swirls Yogurt • Talega Golf Club • The Cellar • The Shore • Velvet Yogurt • Vine 2008 WINNERS: Gold: BeachFire; Silver: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar
BEST INTERNATIONAL EATS
Golden Ole
SONNY’S PIZZA & PASTA
429 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.2540; www.sonnys.com
The lines in front of San Clemente’s famous Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta tell the story—people just love Sonny’s. From fresh, homemade pastas to unique salads and their Golden Ole Award-winning pizza, Sonny’s is a San Clemente institution. Started by Sonny Genovese 30 years ago, the family recipes are still among the favorite dishes (try the stuffed shells).
Silver Ole
AVILA’S EL RANCHITO
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.net
NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Adele’s • Agostino’s • Antoine’s Café • Baja Fresh • Bamboo Bamboo • BeachFire • Blue Danube • Café 207 • Café del Sol • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s • China Well • Chronic Taco • Dave’s Mexican Food • Del Agave • Dos Patio • El Jefe • El Mariachi • Fisherman’s • Fratello’s • Gordon James • Guicho’s • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Izza Pizza • Sushi Kiyo • Kabob Hut • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Fiesta • La Galette Creperie • La Siesta • La Tiendita • La Rocco’s • Las Golondrinas • Los Patios • Mandarin Garden • Mediterranean Village • Miyako Sushi • Molly Bloom’s • Monghut Thai • Mr. Pete Burgers • Olamendis • Pacific Taste • Pedro’s Tacos • Pick Up Stix • Romanos • Romance • Sea Smoke • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sundried Tomato • Super Bowl Express • Sushi Gallery Miki • Sushi Sono • Taka-O Japanese • Thai Paradise • Tina and Vince’s Deli • Tommy’s Diner • Vine • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Z Pizza 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta; Silver: Mongkut Thai
Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta. Photo by Sara Borman 4
BEST LUNCH SPOT
BEST HAPPY HOUR
Golden Ole
FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.fishermansrestaurant.com
There’s nothing like taking a break from work and grabbing a tasty sandwich and beverage at Fisherman’s for lunch. Watching surfers ply the waves just below you while enjoying San Clemente’s beautiful weather and dining at Fisherman’s is a reader-favorite for the second time in four years.
Silver Ole
CAFÉ CALYPSO
114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.9386
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bad to the Bone • Bagel Shack • Baja Fresh • BeachFire • Beach Garden Cafe • Billy’s Deli • Burger Stop • Café Calypso • Café del Sol • Café Mezzaluna • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Charo Chicken • Chronic Tacos • Crispin’s • Daphne’s Greek • Duke’s • El Jefe • El Mariachi • Fatburger • Frugurt • Gordon James • Guicho’s • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • Iron’s in the Fire • Island Style Tacos • Jack in the Box • Kultured Kitchen • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Galette Creperie • La Siesta • La Tiendita • La Rocco’s • Los Patios • Love Burger • Mandarin Garden • Miyako Sushi • Molly Bloom’s • Mongkut Thai • Mr. Pete’s • OC Tavern • Olamendi’s • Pacific Seafood Grill • Pedro’s Tacos • Pick Up Stix • Pipe’s Café • Pizza Port • Posh Peasant • Ralph’s in Talega • Romano’s • Romance • Rose’s Donuts • Rubios • Sandwich Buddies • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s • Stillwater Café • Sundried Tomato • Surfin Donuts • Taka-O • Thai Paradise • The Shore • Tina and Vince’s Deli • Tommy’s Diner • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Z Pizza 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Café Calypso; Silver: Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria
BEST MENU FOR HEALTHY CHOICES
Golden Ole
CAPTAIN MAURI’S COUNTER CULTURE 149 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.8098
Make it four straight for Captain Mauri’s in this category, as SC Times readers again salute their favorite healthy choice spot. Featuring tasty, made-fresh sandwiches, soups and salads, Captain Mauri’s has an extensive menu offering something for everyone. A small patio offers diners an opportunity to eat outdoors while people watching on Avendia Del Mar. Try their smoothies, too.
Silver Ole
CAFÉ CALYPSO
114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.9386
NOMINEES: 7-11 • Adele’s • Antoine’s Cafe • Bad to the Bone • Bagel Shack • Baja Fresh • BeachFire • Billy’s Deli • Bread Gallery • Café Calypso • Café Del Sol • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Carrow’s • Chronic Taco • Dave’s Mexican • Del Taco • Denny’s • El Pollo Loco • Fisherman’s • Flame Broiler • Frugurt • Gordon James • Guicho’s • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • IHOP • Irons in the Fire • Jamba Juice • Juice It Up • Juice Stop • Kultured Kitchen • La Siesta • Mandarin Garden • Olamendi’s • Pedro’s Tacos • Pipe’s Café • Posh Peasant • Romance • Rubio’s • San Clemente Café • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Starbucks • Stillwater Café • Subway • Sundried Tomato • Taka-O • The Shore • Tina and Vince’s Italian Deli • Trader Joe’s • Velvet Yogurt • Wahoo’s Fish Taco • Z Pizza 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Captain Mauri’s; Silver: Café Calypso
SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT
Golden Ole
611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.fishermansrestaurant.com
There’s something about pouring your own self-serve yogurt, adding your own toppings and creating your own, personalized yogurt dessert—something so special that SC Times readers have again picked Velvet Yogurt as their favorite dessert spot. Try the different flavors—from Irish Mint to Cake Batter to plain old (but delicious) chocolate.
Golden Ole
GORDON JAMES
SCHMID’S FINE CHOCOLATES 99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052
FATBURGER
1017 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.9182, www.fatburger.com
There are plenty of places to grab a burger in San Clemente, but Fatburger has clearly established itself as your favorite. For the third straight year, you’ve picked Fatburger as the No.1 burger in town. Made-to-order burgers, freshly cut onion rings, thick and tasty milkshakes and a dining area offering both barstyle service or table seating, help separate Fatburger from the rest.
110 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.9100, www.gordonjamesgrill.com
Silver Ole
MR. PETE’S BURGER
420 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.8323
NOMINEES: Antoine’s Cafe • Bad to the Bone • BeachFire • Burger Stop • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Carl’s Jr. • Crispin’s • Del Taco • Denny’s • Duke’s • Fisherman’s • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Irons on the Fire • Kahuna’s Grill • Love Burger • McDonalds • Molly Bloom’s • OC Tavern • Pipe’s Café • Rib Trader • Romance • Rose’s Donuts • San Clemente Inn • The Shore • Sundried Tomato • Surfin Donuts • T-Street Snack bar • Vine • Tommy’s Diner 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Fatburger; Silver: Mr. Pete
BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE OR ROMANTIC EVENING FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.fishermansrestaurant.com
The gentle, warm southerly breeze sweeps over the deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean while waves lap against the beach just underneath the pier deck at Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar at the San Clemente Pier. As the candlelight flickers off your date’s face, you raise your wine glass to toast to a beautiful life as the moonlight and stars above provide the perfect backdrop for a perfect evening. Ok, you get the idea.
VINE
211 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.2079, www.vinesanclemente.com
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Beach Fire • Blue Danube • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Cassano’s Pizza • The Cellar • Crispins • Del Agave • Denny’s • Fisherman’s • Fratellos • Las Golodrinas • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • Irons in the Fire • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Izza • Mandarin Garden • Village Mediterranean • Melting Pot • OC Tavern • Olamendi’s • Pedro’s Tacos • Romance • Romano’s • San Clemente Wine • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sundried Tomato • Taka-O Japanese 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Gordon James; Silver: Vine
Taka-O Japanese Restaurant. Photo by Sara Borman
BEST SUSHI
Golden Ole
TAKA-O JAPANESE RESTAURANT 425 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7111, www.taka-orestaurant.com
Owners Roger and Kelly Sugano know something about sushi—which explains why after 28 years, Taka-O continues to hold sway on San Clemente’s sushi scene. Taka-O has a large sushi bar as well as sit-down dining—and offers a variety of custom sushi treats.
Silver Ole
9-STYLE SUSHI
102 Avenida Victoria, 949.366.3669
NOMINEES: BeachFire • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • Miyako Sushi • Nobu Sushi • Sea Smoke • Super Bowl Express • Sushi Gallery Miki • Sushi Kiyo • Sushi Sono 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Taka-O; Silver: Del Mar Sushi
BEST SANDWICH
Golden Ole
Silver Ole
Kelly Bradley of Billy’s Meat, Seafood and Deli. Photo by Sara Borman
Josh McCuistion serves up an award-winning margarita at El Ranchito. Photo by Sara Borman
BEST MARGARITA
BILLY’S MEAT, SEAFOOD AND DELI 111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5924
It’s a three-peat for Billy’s Meat, Seafood and Deli, as voters have again selected this downtown favorite as the best maker of the almighty sandwich. The sandwiches are huge, and you can get practically anything from this old-style deli. Check out the unreal selection of meats, cheeses and delicious sides like macaroni and potato salads. Try the specials—they always seem to live up to their billing.
6
120 S. El Camino Real, 949.276.4625, www.velvetyogurt.com
BEST BURGER
2008 WINNERS: Gold: Gordon James; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill
Silver Ole
VELVET YOGURT
NOMINEES: 7-11 • Bagel Shack • Baskin-Robbins • BeachFire • Best of Britain • Billy’s • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Cold Stone • Edible Arrangements • Fisherman’s • Frugurt • Golden Spoon • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Hector’s Bakery • Iva Lee’s • Juice it Up • Juice Stop • Kelly’s Donuts • La Galette Creperie • Mediterranean Sweet Spot • Melting Pot • Mr. Pete’s • Ralph’s Deli • Rite Aid • Rose’s Donuts • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Starbucks • Sugar Shack • Sundried Tomato • Surfin Donuts • Swirls Yogurt • The Cellar • The Vine • Tommy’s Diner • Trader Joe’s 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Velvet Yogurt; Silver: Baskin-Robbins
NOMINEES: Café Rae • Adele’s • Agostino’s • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • BeachFire • Blue Danube • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Café 207 • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Carrow’s • Cassano’s Pizza • China Well • Crispins • Del Agave • Denny’s • Dukes • El Mariachi • Hapa J’s • Iron’s in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Izza Pizza • La Gallete Creperie • La Siesta • Los Patios • Mandarin Garden • Melting Pot • Miyako Sushi • Molly Bloom’s • Mongkut Thai • Mr. Pete’s Burgers • OC Tavern • Olamendi’s • Guicho’s • Romano’s • Romance • Schleppy’s • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s • Sundried Tomato • The Grill at Surfing Donuts • Taka-O Japanese • Thai Paradise • The Shore • Bagel Shack • The Cellar • Village Mediterranean • Vine • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos
Golden Ole
Golden Ole
Silver Ole
FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR
SC Times readers have voted Fisherman’s to the top spot in the increasingly competitive Best Overall Restaurant category this year, ending Gordon James’ two-year run at the top of the list. With separate dining spots to choose from on either side of San Clemente Pier, diners can opt for the more formal sit down experience or the more casual bar/restaurant setting on the north side. Either way, Fisherman’s offers a diverse menu featuring fresh fish, salads and meats at affordable prices, something voters obviously didn’t overlook.
Silver Ole
BEST SPOT TO CURE A SWEET TOOTH
TINA & VINCE’S ITALIAN DELI 221 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5156
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Antoine’s Café • Bad to the Bone • Bagel Shack • BeachFire • Bread Gallery • Burger Stop • Café Calypso • Café Mezzaluna • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Cassano’s Pizza • Corky’s • Denny’s • Dukes • Fat Burger • Fisherman’s • Gordon James • Guicho’s • Hapa J’s • Iron’s in the Fire • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Kultured Kitchen • McDonald’s • Molly Bloom’s • Mr. Pete’s • OC Tavern • Olamendi’s • Pacific Seafood Grill • Pipe’s Cafe • Posh Pheasant • Quizno’s • Ralph’s Deli • Rib Trader • Romance • Romano’s • Rose’s Donuts • Sandwich Buddies • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Subway • Sundried Tomato • Surfin Donuts • The Shore • Togo’s • Tommy’s Diner • Z Pizza 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Billy’s Meat, Seafood and Deli; Silver: Tina & Vince’s
Golden Ole
AVILA’S EL RANCHITO
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.net
Four years of Ole Awards competition, and four Golden Ole’s for Avila’s El Ranchito’s margaritas. Now that’s what you call a clean sweep. What makes the margarita at Avila’s so special? Well, start with fresh, hand-squeezed lime juice. Add a varied and diverse menu of margaritas with a large selection of tequilas, and you start getting the picture. Among the most popular margaritas are the Cadillac Margarita (featuring Jose Cuervo and Grand Marnier) and Juan’s Margarita (Herradurra Silver and Cointreau).
Silver Ole
EL MARIACHI
1925 S. El Camino Real, 949.369.5111
NOMINEES: BeachFire • Café 207 • Chato’s • Del Agave • Duke’s • El Jefe • Fisherman’s • Goody’s Tavern • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Iron’s in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • La Siesta • La Tiendita • Los Patios • OC Tavern • Olamendi’s • Red Fox Lounge • Sundried Tomato • Talega Golf Club 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Avila’s El Ranchito; Silver: El Mariachi
SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
BEST ANTIQUES
Golden Ole
SAN CLEMENTE ANTIQUES
Silver Ole
STANFORD COURT
214 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.2992
You’ll find something for everyone at San Clemente Antiques, located in the 200 block of downtown Avenida Del Mar. With items ranging from antique clocks to vintage toys, clothing and furniture, San Clemente Antiques is a regular in the annual Ole Awards.
106 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6290
NOMINEES: Backstreet Home Décor • Christopher Lee • Erba • Hidden Terrace • Icons of Surf • Lu Lu’s Boutique • Nice and Easy Antiques • Pac-Rat • Plum Precious • Re-Finds Consignments • Salvation Army Thrift Store • South Coast Furniture & Mattress • Surfing Heritage Foundation • Toby’s Thrift • Villa Cucina 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Stanford Court; Silver: San Clemente Antiques
BEST ARTS/CRAFTS SUPPLIES
Golden Ole
SAN CLEMENTE ART SUPPLY 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949369.6603, www.scartsupply.com
One of San Clemente’s coolest shops located in an original 1928 Ole Hanson home, SC Art Supply stocks all sorts of arts and crafts needs for hobbyists, painters, artists and all sorts of other creative mediums. Owners Richard and Patti Herdell opened their store seven years ago and continue to grow the business through great customer service, classes and seminars for children and adults.
Silver Ole
MICHAEL’S
937 Avenida Pico, 949.940.0465, www.michaels.com
NOMINEES: Aaron Brothers • DeNault’s True Value Hardware • Design By Nature • Erba • Fire it Up • Gallery 104 • Office Depot • Russell Stationer’s • Sidestreet Gallery • Staples • Third Eye • Wal-Mart 2008 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Art Supply; Silver: Michael’s
BEST CLOTHING
BEST BILLIARDS DUKE’S
204 S. El Camino Real, 949.481.2040
Two well-lit Valley pool tables anchor the back section of this popular dining and drinking establishment. The action ranges from informal to league play, and pool is free during weekday Happy Hours from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., according to co-owner Jim Stropko.
Silver Ole
OLE’S TAVERN
127 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.9400, www.olestavern.com
NOMINEES: Big Helen’s • Goody’s Tavern • Knuckleheads • Mulligan’s • OC Tavern • Pizza Port • Sunsets 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Ole’s Tavern; Silver: Goody’s Tavern
AT THE SHOPS BEST WINE SELECTION
Golden Ole
SAN CLEMENTE WINE COMPANY 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com
Great wines, great deals, great selection and a great wine tasting bar are among the reasons readers have selected the San Clemente Wine Company as the shop that offers the best wine selection in town for three straight years. Owners Barney and Rachel Rapier Doyle travel the world in search of new vineyards and wines to feature in their downtown store, and weekly wine tastings offer locals a chance to sample new wines inexpensively.
Silver Ole
THE CELLAR
156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com
NOMINEES: Albertson’s • BeachFire • Billy’s Deli • Bob’s Liquor Store • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Carbonara’s • Fisherman’s • Fratellos • Gordon James • Hapa J’s • Irons in the Fire • Izza Pizza • Ole’s Tavern • Ralph’s • Romance • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Sundried Tomato • The Melting Pot • Vine • Trader Joe’s 2008 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Wine Company; Silver: Trader Joe’s
8
ANGEL WINGS
Silver Ole
HOBIE SURF & SPORT
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.5258
From unique clothing styles for women, to jewelry and accessories, Angel Wings is the clear-cut favorite for Best Clothing for the fourth straight year. Owner Laurie Wodiske aims to make Angel Wings accessible to shoppers of all price ranges, offering a range of unique products for women and girls.
San Clemente Art Supply’s Patti Herdell. Photo by Sara Borman
Golden Ole
Golden Ole
BEST SURF SHOP
Golden Ole
HOBIE SURF & SPORT
100 El Camino Real, 949.542.3355; 151 Avenida Del Mar, 949.542.3400, www.hobie.com
Located on the corner of two of San Clemente’s primary downtown shopping boulevards, Hobie Surf & Sport has grabbed the Golden Ole for Best Surf Shop just three years after coming to town. Featuring its own branded apparel, surf boards and other gear, Hobie also offers a diverse selection of top-name surf brands. Hobie has a second shop in town, too, called Hobie A*sec Green Room, offering an all-green approach.
Silver Ole
100 El Camino Real, 949.542.3355, www.hobie.com
NOMINEES: Avenue Accents • BC Surf Shop • Bliss • Blue Eyed Girl • Bodacious • Café Rae • Catalyst • Cherry’s Shoes • DBC Ride Shop • Fashion Plate • Field 4 Dreams • Fits n Fashion • Fluid Surf • Fresh Produce • Greater OC Women • Habit • Killer Dana • Lu Lu’s Boutique • Mac and Madi • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • Petit Bonhomme • Rascal’s Ladies • Rip Curl • Roulette Clothing • Salon Zinnia • Salvation Army Thrift Store • Stewarts Surfboards • Sun Kiss’d Tan Boutique • T-Shirt Factory • Re-Finds Consignment • The Habit • The Pac-Rat • Trestles Surf Outlet • Variant • Vintage Inspired • Wal-Mart • Wild at Heart 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Angel Wings; Silver: Hobie Surf & Sport
BC SURF SHOP
222 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.9085, www.bluecoastsurf.com
NOMINEES: Catalyst • Cole • DBC Board Shop • Dewey Weber • Fluid Surf • Icons of Surf • Killer Dana • Old Honolulu • Rip Curl • San Clemente Surfboards • Stewart’s • T. Patterson • Terry Senate • The Factory • The Green Room • Trestles Surf Outlet 2008 WINNERS: Gold: BC Surf Shop; Silver: Hobie Surf & Sport
BEST SURFBOARD SHAPER
Golden Ole
TIMMY PATTERSON
1409 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.2022, www.tpattersonsurfboards.com
The boards he shapes are inscribed with his trademark T. Patterson logo, and surfers from all over the world have come to love Timmy Patterson’s boards. Known for his creative shortboard designs, Timmy Patterson stocks his hand-shaped boards at his shop on North El Camino Real.
Silver Ole
BILL STEWART
Stewart’s, 2102 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1085, www.stewartsurfboards.com
NOMINEES: Steve Baimbridge • BC Surf Shop • Paul Berton • Matt Biolos • Donald Brink • Mark Brizzi • Daryl Butkso • Paul Carter • Catalyst • Phil Edwards • Noah Freeland • Michael Gee • Ron House • Mark Johnson • Chris Kaysen • Lost Surfboards • Terry Martin • Jed Noll • Rick Rock • Terry Senate • Cole Simler • John Tuttle 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Timmy Patterson; Silver: Bill Stewart
Laurie Wodiske, owner of Angel Wings. Photo by Sara Borman SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
BEST HOME DÉCOR
Golden Ole
VILLA CUCINA
124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com
Villa Cucina makes it three Golden Ole Awards in four years in the Best Home Décor category. Jam-packed with home furnishings from large furniture pieces to the smallest of decorative items, Villa Cucina aims to please by staying open later than most stores on Avenida Del Mar (until 9 p.m. every TuesdaySaturday) and hosting numerous special events inside the store.
Silver Ole
LUXE HOME FURNISHINGS 107 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.4700, www.luxehomefurnishings.net
NOMINEES: Avenue Accents • Back Street Home Décor • Bali Style • Bamboo and Beyond • California Cove • Christopher Lee • Coastal Home Living • Concept Design • DeNault’s True Value Hardware • Erba • Hidden Terrace • Hobie Surf & Sport • Hula Beach • La Casa Verde de Granada • Lowe’s • Nice and Easy Antiques • Pier 1 Imports • Re-Finds Consignment • San Clemente Antiques • Sears • South Coast Furniture & Mattress • Stanford Court • Toby’s • Urban Renewal Décor • Vintage Inspired • Wal-Mart 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Christopher Lee
BEST JEWELRY
Golden Ole
PARADISE JEWELERS
808 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.4367, www.paradisejewelers.com
Owners Rick and Debbie Dunning have certainly found paradise in San Clemente. Since opening in 2006, Paradise Jewelers has quickly risen to become the favorite jewelry spot in San Clemente, this year winning their second Golden Ole to go with a Silver Ole in 2007. From fine jewelry, loose diamonds, watches, engagement rings and more, Paradise has it all.
Silver Ole
ERBA
114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com
NOMINEES: 13th Hub • Angel Wings • Bamboo and Beyond • Bliss • Designs By Nature • Field 4 Dreams • Fifi La La • Gallery 104 • Gino’s Jewelry • Habit • Heaven, Earth and Sea • Hobie Surf & Sport • Hula Beach • Jewelry Forever • On the Rocks • Plum Precious • Rascal’s Ladies • Salon Zinnia • Sand & Sea Jewelry • Slavick’s Gold Creations • The Vintage Inspired • Twigs • Variant • Villa Cucina • Wal-Mart 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Paradise Jewelers; Silver: Erba
O L E
A W A R D S
BEST PLACE FOR BUYING, VIEWING ART
Golden Ole
BEACHFIRE BAR & GRILL
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com
Owner Dave Donaldson loves art—he himself is an artist along with his brother Mark. All of which explains why local artists appreciate BeachFire for becoming the Best Place to Buy or View Art in San Clemente according to SC Times readers. Whether enjoying a delicious meal or hanging out at the bar, make sure to check out the variety of local artists featured on the walls at BeachFire. All of the art is for sale.
Silver Ole
SAN CLEMENTE ART GALLERY
100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com
NOMINEES: A-Frame • Avenue Accents • Bamboo and Beyond • C’Siren Day Spa • Casa Romantica • Christopher Lee • Delanty Studio and Gallery • Fisherman’s • Gallery 104 • Hula Beach • Michael’s • Re-Finds Consignment • San Clemente Art Walk • The Cellar • Villa Cucina • Wal-Mart 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill
BEST KID’S APPAREL & TOYS
Golden Ole
MAC & MADI
203 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6226, www.macandmadi.com
Four years, four Golden Ole’s for Corey Bauman’s Mac & Madi, a store offering a full range of products and apparel for babies and kids. From fully decorated room ideas and furniture, to children’s products and books by local artisans and writers, Mac & Madi is a San Clemente institution.
Silver Ole
PETIT BONHOMME
147 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.3651, www.shoppetitbonhomme.com
NOMINEES: 99 Cent Store • BC Surf Shop • Fairytales • Hobie Surf & Sport • Killer Dana • Little Peeps • OC Travel Tykes • Wal-Mart • Waraku • Wee-Peats • Wild at Heart 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Mac & Madi; Silver: Petit Bonhomme
Downtown Flowers. Photo by Jasmine Smith
BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS
Golden Ole
DOWNTOWN FLOWERS 111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.7062, www.downtownflowersoc.com
Used to be the only folks that knew about Downtown Flowers were those who frequented Billy’s and Carbonara’s for lunch or dinner. No longer. Voted Best Flowers for the third straight year, Krista Levandofsky’s flower shop offers unique combinations and a variety of flowers priced for any budget. And yes, husbands and boyfriends, they’re fully expecting you on Valentine’s Day…
Silver Ole
FLOWERS & FRIENDS
1844 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.9150, www.flowersandfriendssanclemente.com
NOMINEES: Albertson’s • Aloha Flowers • Backstreet Home Decor • Flower Company of San Clemente • Kimberly’s Flowers • Ralph’s • San Clemente Flower Company • San Clemente Florist • Sunday Farmer’s Market • The Vine’s Leaf • Trader Joe’s • Wildflower Florist 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Downtown Flowers; Silver: Flowers & Friends
BEST STORE TO BUY THE PERFECT GIFT
Golden Ole
VILLA CUCINA
Silver Ole
ERBA
124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com
Owner Christina Morgan aims to please—which is why Villa Cucina has perhaps the widest selection of gift ideas in the city. From old-school surf-styled signs to hard-to-find cooking accessories, household decorations and unique furniture items, Villa Cucina is a one-stop shop for those in need of gift inspiration. Don’t miss their amazing holiday decorations, too.
114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com
NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Avenue Accents • Bamboo and Beyond • Bliss • C’Siren Day Spa • California Cove • Christopher Lee • Coastal Home Living • Combat Ready • Dave Cook’s Pro Shop • DeNault’s True Value Hardware • Downtown Flowers • Edible Arrangements • Game Stop • Gino’s Jewelers • Hidden Terrace • Hobie’s Surf & Sport • Hula Beach • Kelly’s Hallmark • Killer Dana • La Casa Verde de Granada • Luxe • Mac and Madi • OC Tyke’s • Oliver’s • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • Paradise Jewelers • Pet Treasures • Petit Bonhomme • Pier 1 • Plum Precious • Rascal’s Ladies • Rip Curl • Russell’s Stationary • Salon Zinnia • San Clemente Antiques • San Clemente Art Gallery • San Clemente Car Wash • San Clemente Wine Company • Schmid’s Chocolate • Stanford Court Antiques • Stewart’s Surfboards • The Cellar • Third Eye Blind • Three Dog Bakery • Trader Joe’s • Urban Renewal Décor • Variant • Vintage Inspired • Wal-Mart • Waraku 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Erba
SERVICES ON THE TO-DO LIST BEST BARBER SHOP
Golden Ole
THE SEÑOR BARBER SHOP 401 S. El Camino Real, 949.361.0762
Al Oliman opened The Señor Barber Shop 12 years ago and ever since then has been packing in regulars. SC Times readers have selected The Señor Barber Shop each of the past three years, stating that the fair pricing and great haircuts are what puts Señor Barber, ahem, a cut above the rest.
Silver Ole Mac & Madi’s Dana Keiter. Photo by Sara Borman 10
V’S BARBERSHOP
802 Avenida Talega, 949.429.7770, www.vbarbershop.com
NOMINEES: Alicia’s Barber Shop and Styling Salon • Bladewerks • Downtown Barber • Head Games Salon • Jerry’s Barbershop • JP’s Barber Shop • Popeye’s For Hair • Ray the Barber • Salon Bamboo • Salon Bleu • Salon Eventides • Salon Zinnia • Shorecliffs Barber Shop • Stud Cuts • Supercuts • Syren’s Beauty Parlor 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Senor Barber; Silver: Alicia’s Barber Shop and Styling Salon
SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
BEST CAR REPAIR
Golden Ole
EL CAMINO AUTO & TIRE 512 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.3288
It’s the first Golden Ole for El Camino Auto Center, owned by the same family that has owned the San Clemente 76 station for the past 24 years. A full-service auto repair center, El Camino offers work on tires, safety checks, cooling systems, batteries, tune-ups, alignment, lubrication, brakes and air conditioning.
Silver Ole
SHADETREE
1635 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6470, www.shadetreeautomotive.com
NOMINEES: Arco • Arnold’s Auto Repair • Auto Medic • Big O Tires • Bill Brewster’s Automotive • Bob’s Auto Repair • Christian Auto Repair • Coastline Automotive • Dave Wert Auto Repair • EZ Lube • Frank’s Foreign Car Service • Holley’s Tire Service • Jack Staggs Auto Repair • Jay’s Car Repair • Jimenez Auto Center • Jimmy’s Tire Center • Klink’s Auto Repair • Littlepage Automotive • Rick’s Trailer Supplies • San O Mechanic • San Clemente Auto Collision • San Clemente Transmission & Complete Auto Repair • Shorecliff’s Auto Service • Top Tune Auto Care • Victoria Auto Repair • Wal-Mart • West Coast Automotive 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Shadetree; Silver: El Camino Auto & Tire
BEST DRY CLEANER
Golden Ole
BONDED CLEANERS AND LAUNDRY 1225 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.1183
Reliability and pricing are two critical ingredients to success in the dry cleaning business, and Bonded seems to have the market cornered as this is the fourth straight year SC Times readers have awarded it with the Golden Ole.
Silver Ole
K&S CLEANERS
114 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.5424
NOMINEES: Celebrity Cleaners • Cleaners 2000 • El Camino Cleaners • Hillside Cleaners • Lucky’s • Nelson’s Cleaners • Pico Cleaners • Presidio Cleaners • San Clemente Dry Cleaners • Seaside Cleaners • Silver Cleaners • Style Cleaners • Sunny Fresh • Talega Cleaners 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Bonded Cleaners; Silver: K&S Cleaners
BEST SURFBOARD DING REPAIR
Golden Ole
BEST HAIR SALON
Golden Ole
1307 Calle Valle, 949.369.5469
STEWART’S SURFBOARDS 2102 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1085, www.stewartsurfboards.com
SALON BAMBOO
150 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
A hair salon, spa and store, Salon Bamboo captures its third Golden Ole in four years (was silver last year). Offering a full line of services such as hair styling, facials, waxing and much, much more. Salon Bamboo features Aveda, Kerastase and i.d. bare minerals products and also offers those products for sale.
Silver Ole
SALON ZINNIA
641 Camino de los Mares, 949.429.2020, www.salonzinnia.com
NOMINEES: Alicia’s Barbershop & Hair Styling Salon • Carlisle’s Hair Design • Chez Hair and Nails • Cobalt Beauty Studio • Hair Country • Hair Sculptors Beauty Salon • Head Games Salon • Jimenez Beauty Salon • Kreative Hair Design • Lupe’s • Ma Jolie Salon • North Beach Hair Studio • R tistic • Salon Bleu • Salon Eventides • Salon Incognito • Salon Real • Salon Rendezvous • Salon 221 • San Clemente Hair Company • Sanctuary Salon • Shake It • Syren’s Beauty Parlor • Stud Cuts • Studio B • Supercuts • The Hair Waves • Toba Salon 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Salon Bleu; Silver: Salon Bamboo
BEST LODGING
COOLBREAZE
Mark Brizzi’s shop is packed with surfboards in need of a little “TLC” – Tender Loving Craftsmanship. For four straight years now, surfers have given CoolBreaze their vote of confidence as the best surfboard ding repair business. Reliable, quick and inexpensive, CoolBreaze is a San Clemente favorite.
Silver Ole
Golden Ole winner Salon Bamboo. Photo by Sara Borman
Golden Ole
CASA TROPICANA BOUTIQUE BEACH FRONT INN
610 Avenida Victoria, 949.492.1234, www.casatropicana.com
Celebrating his 20th year, owner Rick Anderson and wife Susan have recently completed renovations at the 8-room boutique hotel with ocean front views of San Clemente Pier. Each room has its own flat-screen TV and in-room Jacuzzi. The penthouse suite, Casa del Rey Penthouse suite, has its own private deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
NOMINEES: Steve Baimbridge • Jeff Bartlett • Bashems • DBC Ride Shop • Dewey Weber • Ding Doctor • Donald Brink • The Factory • Michael Gee • Ghetto House • Hobie’s Surf & Sport • Brad Howe • Icons of Surf • Chris Kaysen • Killer Dana • Terry Martin • T. Patterson • Rip Curl • Terry Senate • Cole Simler 2008 WINNERS: Gold: CoolBreaze; Silver: Terry Senate
MIKE’S PET CARE
949.246.3835, www.mikespetcare.com
Founder/owner Mike Russell is a registered vet tech (RVT) who provides personalized pet sitting and pet care services. “I am committed, through integrity and experience, to help my clients achieve a happier and healthier pet in the comfort of their own home,” said Russell, who recently was called in to help a client in Talega who had to move out of his house but needed his two dogs taken care of.
Silver Ole
12
1601 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.1644, www.bwcasablanca.com
NOMINEES: Always Inn San Clemente Bed & Breakfast • Beachcomber Motel • Budget Lodge • Carmello Motel • Comfort Inn Suites • Hampton Inn • Holiday Inn Express • San Clemente Inn • San Clemente Cove • The Little Inn • Travel Lodge 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Casa Tropicana; Silver: Best Western Casablanca
BEST MANICURE/PEDICURE
Golden Ole
MINGEE’S NAILS
132 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.0070; 164 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1818; 1041 Avenida Pico, 949.361.0288
Owner Mingee Hayashi certainly knows nails…which is why she’s won three of four Golden Ole’s for Best Manicure/Pedicure in San Clemente. With three locations each offering a full range of services as well as specials for birthday parties, wedding groups and more, Mingee’s Nails has San Clemente covered.
Silver Ole
TALEGA DAY SPA
1161 Puerta del Sol, Ste. 110, 949.429.5757, www.talegadayspa.com
NOMINEES: Happy Nails and Spa • Beauty Nails and Spa • Bellagio Nail Spa • Fashion Nails • Final Touch Nails and Spa • Foxfire • Friendly Nails and Spa • Nails by Karen Dispenza • Kim’s Nail and Spa • Lee Lee’s Nails Salon and Boutique • Passion Nails and Spa • Perfect 10 • Professional Nail & Spa • Revol Nails • Salon Zinnia • Salon Eventides • Salon Real • Syren’s Hair Parlor and Gallery • Sweet Escape 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Kim’s Nail and Spa; Silver: Mingee’s Nails
BEST GYM
Golden Ole
Silver Ole
VIP PET SPA
810 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.7473
NOMINEES: 3 Dog Bakery • Aussie Pet Mobile • Avenida Animal Hospital • Critter’s Mobile Pet Grooming • Dog Gone Dirty • Estrella Grooming • Home Town • Pacific Coast Veterinary Hospital • Paw’s Pet Resort • Pet Treasures • The Pet Palace • San Clemente Grooming • Talega Animal Hospital • Wild’s Animal Supplies 2008 WINNERS: Gold: VIP Pet Spa; Silver: San Clemente Veterinary Hospital
BEST WESTERN CASABLANCA
SAN CLEMENTE GYM
123 S. El Camino Real, 949.361.1007, www.sanclementegym.com
It’s a hat trick for San Clemente Gym as voters have selected it for the third straight year. With a tagline of “Making San Clemente Healthy One Body at a Time,” San Clemente Gym offers first-timers a free workout to meet the staff, check out the equipment and get a feel for their training programs. “From our state-of-the-art Power Plate, Cybex machines and StarTrac equipment, to our personal trainers, and nutritional counselors, the team at the San Clemente Gym is here to help you reach your fitness goals and manage your overall health,” their Web site reads.
BEST PET CARE/GROOMING
Golden Ole
Silver Ole
Mike Russell of Mike’s Pet Care. Photo by Sara Borman
FITNESS ELITE (TIE)
638 Camino de los Mares, 949.661.6060, www.fitnesselite4women.com
Silver Ole
CROSS FIT SC (TIE)
Silver Ole
OC CROSS FIT (TIE)
79 Pico Plaza, 949.361.9111, www.crossfitsanclemente.com
929 Calle Negocio, Ste C, 949.246.4118, www.occrossfit.com
NOMINEES: Asana Fit • Bella Pilates • Curves • Exclusive Fitness • Fitness 19 • Guillobel • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • Pacific Strength • Rancho San Clemente Tennis & Fitness Club • The Little Gym 2008 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Gym; Silver: Fitness Elite
SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards
2009 BEST OF
SAN CLEMENTE P E O P L E ’ S
C H O I C E
O L E
A W A R D S
BEST SPA FOR MASSAGES, ETC.
Golden Ole
TALEGA DAY SPA
1161 Puerta del Sol, Ste. 110, 949.429.5757, www.talegadayspa.com
Step back into the time of ancient Rome and imagine a visit to Tuscany. Ok, now fast-forward 2,500 years and you’ll have stepped into Talega Day Spa, with rich appointments and luxurious surroundings harkening to old world Europe. “Our goal at Talega Day Spa is to remove you from the modern world, transport you to another, and relieve you of some, if not all, of those modern stresses that infiltrate our minds and bodies day in and day out,” reads the Spa’s Web site. From massage therapy to skin care and even nails, Talega Day Spa is a full-service spa.
C’SIREN DAY SPA
Silver Ole
312 Avenida de la Estrella, 949.498.7700, www.csirendayspa.com
NOMINEES: 5 Elements Day Spa • Ageless Generation Day Spa • Bonnie’s Skin Salon • O2 Wellness • Oceanside Spa • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • Salon 221 • Salon Bamboo • Salon Zinnia • Sanctuary Salon and Spa • Serene Qi Acupuncture • Simple Touch Skin Care • Smooth Waxing Salon 2008 WINNERS: Gold: C’Siren Day Spa; Silver: Talega Day Spa
BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO
Golden Ole
BELLA PILATES
802 Avenida Talega, Ste. 104, 949.388.2747, www.bellapilatesstudio.com
Owner Lauren Katz opened Bella Pilates in March 2008 to offer San Clemente a full-service studio for those seeking a different form of exercise. “Pilates focuses on strengthening the body while increasing your flexibility,” Katz said. “People of all walks of life will see improvements.” Katz also noted that pilates is an excellent resource for those in need of physical therapy. Try it for free—get a 30-minute private session to see if pilates is for you.
Silver Ole
ASANA FIT
204 Avenida Granada, 949.492.0110, www.asanafit.com
NOMINEES: Aha Yoga • Body Awareness • Exclusive Fitness • Fitness Elite • Ocean Physical Therapy • Ole Hanson Beach Club • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • Pacific Coast Academy of Dance • San Clemente Community Center • Yoga Spot 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Aha Yoga; Silver: Bella Pilates
GETTING OUTSIDE
Four-time winner for Best Beach: T Street. File photo
world over. The walk down to Lowers from the nearest parking spots helps keep the rif-raff out of the lineup, and on any given day you’ll find top pros carving the legendary wave along with the top locals.
Silver Ole
NOMINEES: 204s • Church’s • Cotton’s Point • Lasuen • Old Man’s • Pier • Poche Beach • Riviera • San Onofre • State Beach • Trail 1 • Trail 6 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Trestles; Silver: T Street
BEST BEACH
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T STREET
The hands-down winner for four straight years, families love T Street for its many amenities; bathrooms, snack bar, convenient parking and the nearby pier, while surfers, bodyboarders and bodysurfers love the consistent break afforded by the reef off T Street beach. The beach at T Street is one of the city’s flattest, offering a sandy, rock-free entry into the water, also a favorite for skimboarders.
Silver Ole
MAIN/PIER
NOMINEES: 204s • Church’s • Cotton’s Point • Cyprus Shore • El Portal • Lasuen • Linda Lane • Mariposa • North Beach • Old Man’s • Poche • Riviera • San Onofre • State Beach • Trestles 2008 WINNERS: Gold: T Street; Silver: San Onofre
BEST SURF BREAK
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TRESTLES
Ah, surfing nirvana right here in San Clemente’s back yard. Whether it’s legendary Lowers—arguably the best performance wave on the mainland United States—or oft-uncrowded Uppers or Middles, Trestles not only is your favorite surf spot by far but also is a destination for surfers the 14
T STREET
BEST GOLF COURSE
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SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.8380, www.sanclementegc.com
San Clemente’s oldest golf course remains its most loved—SC Times readers have selected Muni once again their favorite course for the fourth straight year. A new clubhouse, pro shop and the Irons in the Fire bar/restaurant has given the 18-hole course a much-needed facelift, making it not only a beautiful course with ocean views but also the best deal in around.
Silver Ole
TALEGA GOLF CLUB
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SAN GORGONIO PARK
2916 Via San Gorgonio, www.san-clemente.org
NOMINEES: 204s • Calafia Park • Casa Romantica • Forster Ranch • Leslie Park • Liberty Park • Lobo School • Marblehead • Max Berg Park • Mira Costa Park • Park Semper Fi Marine Monument • Pirate Park • Ralph’s Skate Park • Red Barn Park • Riviera Beach • San Clemente Pier • San Onofre • Steed Park • Sunset Park • T Street • Talega Parks • Tierra Grande • Truman Benedict • Verde Park 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Linda Lane; Silver: San Gorgonio
BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERS
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FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.fishermansrestaurant.com
Apparently nothing says “San Clemente” better than a visit to Fisherman’s, as for the third straight year SC Times readers have selected Fisherman’s as the top spot to take out-of-towners. Whether it’s the oceanfront dining, uninterrupted views of the sunset, watching the surfers or simply enjoying a beverage on the deck, Fisherman’s is the perfect way to introduce visitors to San Clemente.
990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.6226, www.talegagolfclub.com
NOMINEES: Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Shorecliffs Golf Club 2008 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Municipal; Silver: Talega Golf Club
BEST PARK FOR THE KIDS
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beach access (including a ramp). The only downside—no public bathroom (nearest is a short walk to the San Clemente Pier).
LINDA LANE PARK
400 Linda Lane, www.san-clemente.org
One of the city’s most popular parks, Linda Lane offers beautiful ocean views, children’s gym apparatus, picnic tables and large, grassy play areas. The park also has ample parking (paid) and
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SAN CLEMENTE PIER
Avenida Victoria and Avenida Del Mar
NOMINEES: Adele’s • Antoine’s Café • Avenida Del Mar • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Baskin-Robbins • BeachFire • Beach Trail walk • Big Helen’s • C’Siren Day Spa • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Calafia Beach • Captain Mauri’s • Casa Romantica • Cassano’s Pizza • Erba • Gordon James • Guichos • Hapa J’s • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Kaylani Coffee • La Galette Creperie • La Siesta • Mimosa Café • Mongkut Thai • Mr. Pete’s • Ole’s Tavern • Park Semper Fi Marine Monument • Pedro’s • Pizza Port • Rib Trader • Riveria Beach • Romance • Salon Zinnia • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sun Dried Tomato • Taka-O Japanese • The Cellar • Trestles • Velvet Yogurt • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 2008 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar; Silver: San Clemente Pier
SC Times 2009 Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards