Where Orange County Magazine Spring 2018 by California Media Group

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ORANGE COUNTY

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AT A NEW STAGE

ORANGE COUNTY UNVEILS THREE SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE VENUES

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where

orange county Spring 2018

COntents

departments

the guide

4 Editor’s Note

34 Dining Restaurants categorized by cuisine

Feeling a connection.

6 Hot Dates

50 Entertainment Special events, performing arts and sports

Smash Broadway musical Hamilton in Costa Mesa.

64 30 Things We Love

52 Attractions + museums Theme parks, cultural venues and exhibitions

where now

54 Shopping The county’s major retail destinations

8 Dining Palatial new Habana at Irvine Spectrum; Costa Mesa’s culinary thoroughfare.

55 golf The most beautiful and most interesting courses

10 Shopping Kestan boutique at the O.C. Mix in Costa Mesa; Havianas at Irvine Spectrum Center.

56 BEACHES + PARKS Fun on the ground, on the water and in the sky.

House of Blues at Anaheim GardenWalk

11 Art

58 nightlife Hottest clubs, lounges, bars and wine bars

Retrospective look at Tony DeLap, O.C.’s foremost living artist, at Laguna Art Museum. SPRING 2018 SOCALPULSE.COM

ORANGE COUNTY

OVER 300 SHOPS & RESTAURANTS

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features

URBAN DECAY VICTORIA’S SECRET VINCE RED O MEXICAN CUISINE BY RICK BAYLESS

SUSHI ROKU AND MORE...

AT A NEW STAGE

ORANGE COUNTY UNVEILS THREE SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE VENUES

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ON THE COVER Entrance to Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Photo by RMA Photography. See feature on page 12.

Three spectacular, and very different, performance venues have debuted in two years. BY LAURA BLEIBERG

City Tours 24 Metro Cities 26 The Coast 28 South Coast 30 North County 39

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Bella Terra

16 Bloom Service The great gardens of Orange County include an arboretum, a sculpture garden and a nursery. by KAT NGUYEN-DE ANGELIS

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The Marketplace

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Explore the county north to south and A to Z page 61 133

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Pacific City

The Triangle

Lido Marina Village

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Connect with us online

20 The Seas of Time The county’s historic seafood restaurants have been reeling in patrons for decades. BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

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Crystal Cove Shopping Center

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To Outlets at San Clemente

Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California editors online and on your smartphone.

P. 12 COURTESY HOUSE OF BLUES. P. 20 COURTESY LANDRY’S

COASTAL SHOPPING & DINING

58 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, and getting from here to there

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welcome

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

W YLAND

A Note From the Editor

G A L L E R I ES

Sea of Hope (triptych, center panel) Original painting by Wyland ©

Wyland Galleries

Laguna Beach 509 South Coast Highway Laguna Beach, CA 92651 800-WYLAND-1 OPEN DAILY 9 AM TO 8 PM

www.wyland.com

Whether it’s a Broadway musical or dance production at Segerstrom Hall or a concert or recital at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, I can’t cross the plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa to either hall without stopping to admire the towering sculpture between them— from the inside. The late arts visionary and center founder Henry Segerstrom and his wife Elizabeth commissioned Richard Serra’s 65-foot-high, 360-ton Connector in 2006.

—BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

Connector puts me in the right frame of mind for whatever performance follows. This season, that undoubtedly includes the Broadway musical Hamilton.

Follow Wyland

VLADIMIR PERLOVICH

FEELING A CONNECTION

Five torqued weathered-steel plates, fabricated in Germany and assembled on-site, rise from a 20-foot base to a 4-foot pentagonal opening to the sky. If the exterior is visually provocative, a more than metaphoric beacon for the arts, the experience inside is primarily aural. Enter via one of two gaps, stomp your feet or make any sound, and the startling echoes evoke reactions from wonder to sheer glee. Children can’t get enough of Connector; if the Segerstroms were hoping to groom future audiences, I can’t imagine a better outreach. In fact, Henry dotted the area with more than a dozen sculptures. Among the more monumental: Richard Lippold’s Fire Bird, which seems to burst through the Segerstrom Hall facade; the stained glass dome atop Jewel Court at South Coast Plaza, which Segerstrom also founded; and Isamu Noguchi’s 1.6-acre California Scenario, hidden among nearby office buildings (see Great Gardens, p. 16). Connector is my touchstone; it puts me in the right frame of mind for whatever performance follows. This season, that undoubtedly includes the Broadway musical Hamilton at Segerstrom Hall (Hot Dates, p. 6). And with the debut of the stage and Center 360 eatery at Julianne and George Argyros Plaza (At a New Stage, p. 12), I’ll have even more occasions to step inside Connector.

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where MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER EDITOR

Jeff Levy

Benjamin Epstein

ART DIRECTOR

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Bleiberg, Joseph Elliott, Roger Grody, Zoe Lorenzo, Kat Nguyen-De Angelis CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Tiffany Reinhold 714.813.6600 HONORARY PRESIDENT

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Event Calendar

Leanne Killian Riggar

Jennifer Salas, Kamryn Stelly

Laguna Beach

@TheDistrictTustin AT JAMBOREE & BARRANCA 2437 PARK AVE, TUSTIN

The Graduate at The Laguna Playhouse February 21 – March 18, 2018 Golden Globe winner and Academy Award Nominee Melanie Griffith stars in The Graduate! Terry Johnson’s stage adaptation of The Graduate, based on the novel and the iconic 1967 film, is a bitterly hilarious dark comedy, full of rapid-fire dialogue between fascinating characters boldly celebrating a MayDecember romance in 1960s California, in which the future can be summed up in one word: Plastics. 949.497.2787 lagunaplayhouse.com Tony DeLap: A Retrospective February 25 – May 28, 2018 Laguna Art Museum’s 2018 retrospective of DeLap’s work will include approximately eighty paintings, sculptures, and drawings, and the accompanying catalogue will survey DeLap’s career and influence, from his first exhibition at the Oakland Museum of California in 1960 to the present, taking a critical look at his role in various movements as well as the decidedly non-linear development of his body of work. 949.494.8971 lagunaartmuseum.org Sunset Serenades | May 4, 11, 18, 25 Every year, in May and September, enjoy the free Sunset Serenades concert series in the Heisler Park Amphitheatre where you can see, feel and virtually hear that magical Laguna sunset. Concerts start at 6:30pm, with metered parking available along Cliff Drive. 949.497.0771 visitlagunabeach.com

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WHERE CALENDAR

HOT DATES Spring 2018

MAY 8-27 HAMILTON

7 THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED 1 FESTIVAL OF WHALES > MARCH 3-4, 10-11 The free festival celebrates the California gray whale migration with a parade, concerts, crafts and marinemammal cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 949.496.1045, festivalofwhales.com

HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com for the up-tothe-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.

2 CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, LUZIA > THROUGH MARCH 25 (Left) Surrealistic ode to a country “where light (luz) quenches the spirit and rain (illuvia) soothes the soul” features breathtaking acrobatic feats. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 877.924.7783, cirquedusoleil.com

3 SHREW! > MARCH 24-APRIL 21 In Shakespeare’s battle of the sexes, The Taming of the Shrew, Petruchio wins. But what if a woman had written it? In this spin, Kate triumphs, too. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555, scr.org 4 NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL > APRIL 26-MAY 3 Event presents 350 films—features, shorts, documentaries and animation—from 50 countries at various movie theaters as well as seminars and parties. newportbeachfilmfest.com 5 PIANIST YUJA WANG > MAY 9 The sensational Chinese dynamo radiates magnetism and dazzles with her technical mastery in recital. Renée

and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.ARTS, scfta.org. 6 ANGELS VS. YANKEES > APRIL 27-29 The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim face off against the team’s New York nemesis. Anaheim Stadium, 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com 7 DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL > MAY 19-20 Blues, rock and rhythm and blues on three stages, plus microbrew tastings and wine lounge, at Doheny State Beach. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, dohenybluesfestival.com

LUZIA, MAT T BEARD. THE KING AND I, MAT THEW MURPHY

The record-shattering Hamilton: An American Musical, at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa, tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant who became George Washington's right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and served as the nation’s first treasury secretary. The score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway. In 2016, Hamilton garnered an unprecedented 16 Tony Award nominations—it won 11, including Best Musical—and the Pulitzer Prize for drama. p. 50

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WHERE NOW The best in entertainment, attractions, shopping and dining

DINING

Habana Nights Habana, at the Lab in Costa Mesa for more than 20 years, opens a palatial second location at Irvine Spectrum Center. The pan-Latin restaurant is triple the size of the original and has double the seating. It adds breakfast and teatime to lunch, dinner and one of the county’s best brunches. A massive Euro-vintage-inspired chandelier overlooks the dining room and handsome bar; a beautifully tiled bar is outside, too. French toast— cornflake-crusted, rum-custardsoaked brioche toast with guava jam and coconut syrup—and a ropa vieja hash bowl star at breakfast; a tropical ceviche and the Guajiro skirt steak with chimichurri, corn on the cob and plantain shine at dinner. The Al Centro, ’Pa Dentro cocktail, left, presents rum and coconut water in a young coconut. The adjacent bakery-café offers breads, pastries, coffee drinks and the don’t-miss Café Cubano dessert: a cup made of chocolate with a tiramisu-inspired filling. p. 40

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The Crack Shack and, left, Beets & Berry Salad at the Country Club

CULINARY THOROUGHFARE

COUNTRY CLUB, ALAN DE HERRERA. ICE CREAM, BENJAMIN EPSTEIN

East 17th Street in Costa Mesa is suddenly a hot O.C. dining destination. The Country Club, from the owner of Wild Goose Tavern down the street, evokes a Gatsby-esque sports club. Highlights: Shinnecock cocktail, a popcorn-infused Old Fashioned; hamachi tacos on jicama shells; Aspen Ridge filet mignon with rosemary confit garlic; and not-to-be-missed caramelized white chocolate bread pudding with bourbon caramel and salted creme chantilly (p. 34). Just opposite, the owner of Tabu Shabu opens Oak & Coal in the same center; it’s devoted to yakitori; order by the skewer (p. 39). To the west, Bravo Top Chef All-Stars winner Richard Blais brings his playful approach to chicken- and egg-centric dishes to The Crack Shack. Order outside, eat inside the striking dual-level space amid whimsical chickenthemed decor. Consider the spicy Firebird sandwich; fried chicken with housemade sauces on tap; or matzo ball pozole (p. 34). To the east, 17th Street becomes Westcliffe Drive when it enters Newport Beach. The team behind Vine in San Clemente and Ironwood in Laguna Hills opens a third wine country-inspired venue, Olea. Design includes tree-branch sculptures and a ceiling of whole logs. Try the Jorge Lucas tequila-and-mezcal cocktail, Duroc pork osso buco and Belgian chocolate chunk and fromage blanc cookies (p. 36).

The Scoop on Asian Ice Cream The county's most exciting new ice cream destinations are Asian-inflected. In its “Where to Find the Best Milkshakes in the U.S.,” Travel + Leisure named The Straw: Modern Milkshakes in Costa Mesa its No. 1. Comely concoctions include Thai-mango-sticky-riceinspired Bangkok Betty and Vampire Campfire, with

deep-fried garlic, milk chocolate and roasted marshmallows (714.852-3772). Thailand-based All Coco opens its first U.S. location at Union Market Tustin. Ice cream, in flavors from coconut to charcoal, is made with coconut water and coco-bits and comes in a cup or fresh coconut shell (714.389.9138). Hand-rolled ice cream, its

cylinders fashioned while you watch, is the rage. One side of Destination Seafood House in Westminster's Little Saigon is devoted to elaborate confections such as We Are So Mint to Be; Keep Calm and Enjoy Durian is made from fresh pods and topped with sticky rice, coconut milk and sesame seeds (714.884.4692).

Hand-rolled ice cream at Destination Seafood House

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WHERE NOW / Spring

2018 C2 SHINING C

SHOPPING

CB2, new at South Coast

Modern Conscientous Luxury

Plaza in Costa Mesa, is a

New Kestan boutique at the OC Mix, centerpiece of the South Coast Collection in Costa Mesa, focuses on ethical labor and ecofriendly initiatives through clothing collections intended “for the fearless and spirited woman.” In the belief that every woman is multifaceted, brother-sister owners Kevin and Stephanie Lin of Irvine offer a wide variety of tops, bottoms and dresses; many reflect a move toward sustainable fashion practices encouraged by Kestan’s organic cotton initiative. Also find jewelry—925 sterling silver, rings, bracelets and necklaces—as well as beauty and bath products including body oils and scrubs. p. 54

The first of its 14 locations

Crate and Barrel spinoff. opened in Chicago in 2000, focusing on modern home design—furniture as well as gifts that aim to be “clever and in the moment ... spare and simple.” Surprising treatments include an acrylic tic-tac-toe set, gold tea infuser, solid brass tape dispenser and the Oil Slick Reactive Luster Teapot. The Venice Studio Collection, a collaboration with Fred Segal, features the brand’s iconic denim designs as well as vintageinspired mixed materials. Accessories include wall and tabletop decor, mirrors, candle holders, planters and botanicals, clocks and other electronics. p. 55

Kestan at OC Mix. (Right) Solid brass tape dispenser at South Coast Plaza’s CB2

THE HAVIANAS AND HAVE NOTS Brazilian flip-flop brand Havaianas is the most popular in the world, with about 150 million pairs sold annually. Many surfwear shops carry them, but the most complete Havianas inventory —an astonishing array of styles, patterns and vibrant colors—can be found at its new boutique at the Irvine Spectrum Center. Created by a Scotsman, the footwear was inspired by Japanese zōris and was the first flip-

flops mass-produced from rubber 55 years ago; the Havianas name comes from the Portuguese word for Hawaiians. Today, styles include flipflops, espadrilles and sneakers for men and women, sandals, wedges and rain boots for women and flip-flops and rain boots for kids. The store, also in Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach, carries accessories such as sunglasses, minibags, towels and key rings. p. 54

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Tony DeLap, Portrait of Queen Zozer II

ART

A Nonlinear Life The subject of Tony DeLap: A Retrospective, at Laguna Art Museum through May 28, is Orange County’s foremost living artist. A leading practitioner of Southern California minimalism and “Finish Fetish,” DeLap has been at the nexus of significant art movements throughout his career. He also played a part in the development of Op Art, hard-edge painting, the California Light and Space movement and sitespecific installations. DeLap has explored the concept of an artwork’s edge and the point where painting and sculpture intersect. His expertise and interest in magic have led him to make objects “float” and otherwise defy explanation. DeLap was the first art professor to be hired at the University of California, Irvine, where he taught for 30 years. The accompanying catalog traces his career and influence from his first exhibition at Oakland Museum of California in 1960 to the present; the show in Laguna Beach includes approximately 80 paintings, sculptures and drawings and takes a critical look at the decidedly nonlinear development of his body of work. p. 54 SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 11

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At a New STAGE

Orange County boasts spectacular new performANCE venues. by LAURA BLEIBERG IN THE PAST TWO YEARS, three exciting performance venues have opened in Orange County, and they couldn’t be more different: a public plaza, a campus concert hall and a music club. Those are bare-bones descriptions of, respectively, the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa; the Marybelle and Sebastian P. Musco Center for the

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Arts at Chapman University in Orange; and the House of Blues Anaheim. But they also have much in common. Each venue adds depth to the county’s art scene and the potential for a greater variety of music, dance and theater. Each makes them more widely available to residents and visitors alike, in some cases through free performances. Here’s a closer look.

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RMA PHOTOGRAPHY

The Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa

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Julianne and George Argyros Plaza The expansive courtyard between the original Segerstrom Hall, built in 1986, and the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, which opened in 2006, has been the site for dance performances, summer drivein-style movie screenings and other events. But the center’s leaders had loftier goals for the space, hoping to turn it into a welcoming town square for the arts in Orange County where all events are free. “A number of performing arts centers across the country are looking to engage the

public in different ways,” says Terrence W. Dwyer, Segerstrom Center for the Arts president. “Outdoor public gathering and performance places are a great way of engaging the community. Our entire institution is evolving; the plaza is [one] manifestation.” Segerstrom Center is ahead of the curve with its renovation: The Los Angeles Music Center recently announced a $40 million update for its plaza. The $16 million cost of the Segerstrom project includes a spectacular fountain at the plaza entrance and the new Center for Dance and Innovation. A focal point of the 56,100-square-foot plaza is a new permanent multipurpose area with audio and lighting equipment; it’s divided into two stages, one 2,100 square feet, the other 250 square feet. The plaza’s floor tiles and benches have embedded lighting and it’s dotted with 60 audio speakers. You can see and hear performers no matter where you are. Some preconcert events are tied to theater programming; the Hamiltunes Sing-A-Long on May 19 is timed to the run of the Broadway megahit Hamilton May 8-27. The space is also intended for school and community

group performances, to foster their “ownership” of the center. South Coast Chinese Cultural Center and Pacific Symphony present a Lantern Festival on March 4 as part of Lunar New Year festivities. The plaza holds about 2,000 people. Benches of ipe wood dot the plaza; more than 40 Drake elm trees provide greenery ßand shade. There is seated dining at curvilinear new Patina Group café Center 360; there also are dedicated picnic areas. A grand staircase connects the plaza to a second-floor entrance to Segerstrom Hall. Los Angeles-based architect Michael Maltzan chose colors and materials to match existing features, notably Richard Serra’s reddish steel sculpture Connector. This landmark artwork is a favorite with children, who love to go inside the sculpture and listen to the echoes of their voices.

Musco Center for the Arts The $82 million Musco hall opened March 19, 2016, with a gala starring opera greats Plácido Domingo, Deborah Voigt and Milena Kitic; maestro John DeMain led the L.A. Opera Orchestra. But the multipurpose

argyros plaza, nick koon. musco center, ema peters photography

Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University in Orange. (Below) Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center.

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BLIND BOYS of alabama, brian feinzimer. musco center, ema peters photography

Clockwise from upper left: Blind Boys of Alabama at Musco Center; two views of House of Blues; Musco Center interior

auditorium, a showcase of wood and bluefabric seating, was built as a flexible space that primarily serves the needs of Chapman University’s performing-arts students. Student productions make up about 30 percent of the presentations, says Richard T. Bryant, Musco Center’s executive director. Pfeiffer Partners Architects Inc. designed the three-level, 1,044-seat theater so that it works equally well for opera—L.A. Opera is one of its artistic affiliates—as well as for concerts, theater, musical theater, spokenword events and contemporary music such as pop and hip-hop. The orchestra pit accommodates as many as 70 musicians; the wood shell can be raised into the fly space above the stage when not in use. Famed acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota— whose projects include Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles and Soka Performing Arts Center in Aliso Viejo—designed acoustical banners within the hall that can be adjusted to suit each presentation. Musco officials hope to attract diverse communities. To that end, they have forged artistic relationships with the Vietnamese American Society for Creative Arts & Music,

the Orange County Youth Symphony and Backhausdance, whose director, Jennifer Backhaus, is an assistant professor on the dance faculty at Chapman University. Star choreographer Benjamin Millepied and his L.A. Dance Project participate in a weeklong residency that culminates in a performance of new works June 16. Jazz phenomenon Joey Alexander and his trio perform April 27; the Heartbeat of Mexico festival May 27 concludes with a ticketed evening performance.

House of Blues Anaheim The House OF Blues at “eatertainment” center Anaheim GardenWalk, the acclaimed chain's first new location in 10 years, is twice the size of its former space at Downtown Disney. With the close of the House of Blues in West Hollywood, the jaw-dropping Anaheim edition has become HOB’s flagship. On some nights, House of Blues has live music scheduled in four different rooms. The large Music Hall seats 2,200, ideal for groups such as the rapper NF, whose Perception Tour hits town March 6, and the rock band Dashboard Confessional on April

20. The popular Sunday Gospel Brunch takes place in the Music Hall, too. The Parish room is a more intimate space for local artists and smaller bands; it holds 400 and can be configured for lounge seating or standing-room only. The Foundation Room is a VIP membership live-music venue and lounge—varying prices include concierge service and premium seating—that also has public hours. The ground-floor restaurant and bar has a stage featuring different musicians daily. The focus of new chef Jeremy Cantwell’s menu remains on made-from-scratch Southern-inspired dishes. It wouldn’t be the House of Blues without a Southern vibe and décor that pays homage to the Mississippi Delta and the great bluesmen of the past. Delightful folk art crowds the walls; glass tiles in the restaurant and bar celebrate greats such as Etta James and B.B. King; tapestries hang on the mezzanine level of the Music Hall. A spectacular pillar at the entrance to the club, adjoining the downstairs bar, is intricately decorated with thousands of beads, giving it a Mardi Gras spin. SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 15

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Bloom Service Great gardens of Orange County By K AT NGUYEN-DE ANGELIS

Orange County’s natural beauty is hardly limited to its breathtaking coastline. It is also home to an array of stunning gardens as diverse as botanical retreats, sculpture gardens, even retail nurseries that are attractions in their own right. One doesn’t need be a gardening enthusiast to appreciate these venues—even the most staunch urbanist will savor these reprieves from routine. Make a day of it: Start with a garden, then enjoy a meal and shopping onsite or nearby.

Corona del Mar Plaza—where Baker & Olive offers charcuterie, flavored olive oils, balsamic vinegars and anything else you might need for a picnic. Also at the center: GLO Nail Bar, where one of the luxe mani-pedi services include a foot bath with champagne and rose petals.

California Scenario Commissioned by the late Henry T. Segerstrom, the mogul behind South Coast Plaza and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, California Scenario in Costa Mesa is artist Isamu Noguchi’s homage to California landscapes. The 1.6-acre sculpture garden —also known as the Noguchi Garden—is a cultural treasure tucked away among Town Center’s glass office towers. The garden is both minimalist and dramatic. Its centerpiece, The Spirit of the Lima Bean, is a 12-foot grouping of large interlocking stones, a nod to the area’s agricultural roots. The genesis of those roots lay with his grandfather, but Segerstrom was the visionary who transformed the land. That work is just one of the installation’s constructs. The others are Forest Walk, Land Use, Desert Land, Water Source, Water Use and Energy Fountain. Water elements throughout the space lend themselves to peaceful meditation; all elements lend themselves to photography. After replenishing your spirit, you can

replenish your body at any of a number of superior restaurants within walking distance. Enjoy steaks at Mastro’s, the back of which looks out onto the garden; tapas and paella at Top Chef alum Amar Santana’s Vaca; and seafood at beautiful Water Grill. South Coast Plaza adds 40 more dining options—and hundreds of boutiques, among them Webster, Stella McCartney, Dior Homme, Les Parfums Louis Vuitton and SoCal-centric Vans footwear.

Roger’s Gardens Can a retail nursery be a visitor destination? That certainly seems to be the case at Roger’s Gardens. Visitors come by the busloads—literally—to see what the high-end retail center has on display each season, especially during holidays. It’s easy to spend half a day strolling through the 7-acre grounds, which features fresh floral stations, a whimsical gift shop, fascinating designer fountains and, of course, creatively designed gardens for those seeking inspiration for their own backyards. Roger’s Gardens is even more of an attraction since its Farmhouse restaurant opened last year. Helmed by local veteran chef Rich Mead, the spot is open for lunch and dinner, offering field-to-fork dining using locally sourced ingredients as well as wine, craft beers and cocktails.

Opposite, Benjamin ginsberg

Sherman library and gardens This horticultural haven, relatively intimate at 2.2 acres, is right on Coast Highway in Corona del Mar, but for a small sign hidden in plain sight. It was a nursery before it was established in 1955; now it describes itself as a museum of living plants. The flora and fauna from around the globe are seasonal, but the venue, known for its flower beds and hanging baskets, seems to be in constant bloom. Botanical collections range from the desert plant life of the Cactus and Succulent Garden, a hipster’s backyard dream, to the Tropical Conservatory, which displays orchids, heliconias and gingers in all their island glory; stop and smell the cattleya! Hummingbirds zip by at close range. Nearby are staghorn ferns and koi. Culinarians appreciate the herb garden, where they find chocolate and orange mint plants as well as society and tricolor garlic. No surprise that the garden’s al fresco Café Jardin makes good use of those vibrant herbs in “coastal garden” dishes as diverse as house-smoked salmon and Indian-spiced lamb shank. Afternoon tea is offered on the second and last Wednesday of the month— currant and chocolate scones, a quartet of tea sandwiches, tartelettes—with a pictureperfect floral backdrop, of course. The gardens are midway between picturesque Little Corona Beach and 16 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2018

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Sherman Library and Gardens 2647 E. Coast Hwy. Corona del Mar 949.673.2261

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Rogerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gardens 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road Corona del Mar 949.640.5800

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California Scenario 611 Anton Blvd. Costa Mesa

COURTESY SEGERSTROM FAMILY ARCHIVES

Those looking to shop might check out new boutiques at nearby Fashion Island: Zadig & Voltaire and St. John for women, Rodd & Gunn and Robert Talbott for men.

FULLERTON ARBORETUM On what was once an ailing orange grove at Cal State Fullerton is Fullerton Arboretum, the county’s largest botanical garden with 4,000 plants on 26 acres (1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657. 278.3407). Wide trails flanked by ponds and streams take visitors through four distinct plant collections: cultivated, woodlands, Mediterranean and desert (whose cactus flowers bloom in spring). Areas of special interest include a subtropical fruit grove and the native plants of Thorn Forest; among recent additions is a wildflower exhibit. The arboretum offers classes as diverse as home composting, pruning of roses and cooking with local ingredients.

On weekends, you can take a guided tour or visit the 1894 Heritage House at the center of the venue. Surrounded by flower and vegetable gardens—of course!—the cottage was built by Fullerton’s first physician. Now it’s a museum of turn-ofthe-century county history. A windmill and outhouse were added along the way to better portray life at that time. Nearby Summit House is a fine-dining landmark known for its impeccable service and outstanding prime rib. You’ll find oodles more dining options—and vintage clothing boutiques—in downtown Fullerton.

UCI ARBORETUM The UCI Arboretum is UC Irvine’s 12.5acre botanic garden and research facility (Campus Drive and Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.824.5833). Its initial focus on South African plants in the 1970s expanded to include endangered plant species and

a wealth of exhibits spotlighting what is known as California’s floristic province; those include Baja California, the Channel Islands, native grasslands and wildflowers, the Mojave Desert and the more obscure Maritime Succulent Scrub and Otay Mesa. The venue continues to boast one of the finest collections of African wild flowering bulbs and aloes anywhere. Nearby University Center offers dozens of fast-casual destinations, notably Adya for new takes on Indian street food, Mendocino Farms for creative sandwiches and Spoletto for design-your-own pasta.

SECRET GARDEN AT HUNTINGTON BEACH CENTRAL PARK The good volunteers of the Huntington Beach Tree Society have turned a neglected community garden into one of the county’s coziest sanctuaries (18000 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, 714.564.1396). Immaculate granite paths and scenic river-rock dry streams lead through a small collection of trees, succulents and other drought-tolerant plants. Though its name implies that it might be concealed or hard to access, it’s not: The nearly acre-long plot is right behind the Huntington Beach Public Library and ideal for reading a book on a bench amid the flora. Speaking of benches, the Park Bench Café, a family-owned eatery also in Huntington Beach Central Park, offers breakfast and lunch. Dogs are welcome; owners can order for them from the Canine Cuisine menu. On the coast, not far, is Pacific City, a sleek new retail and dining destination. You can shop at Sephora and Kin boutique; dining options include Burnt Crumbs in Lot 579 for creative sandwiches, the American Dream for burgers and beer, and Bluegold for chef-driven fare and cocktails. SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 19

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The Seas of Time HISTORIC SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS THAT CONTINUE TO REEL IN PATRONS.

SIXTY PERCENT OF NEW RESTAURANTS close or change ownership within the first year, according to a recent study by Ohio State University; only one in five survives beyond five years. Given the sheer quantity of restaurants that open in Orange County each year, the odds of thriving for 40 years or more seem astronomic.

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Competition would seem particularly fierce among those serving coastal cuisine in a county known for its picturesque coast. Location is key to survival. The Cannery and Woody’s Wharf are on the water in Newport Beach and offer docks for those arriving by boat, fairly common

thanks to electric boat rentals. Las Brisas in Laguna Beach and the Chart House in Dana Point are on cliffs high above the water, offering sweeping views of the coast. Other elements contributing to their longevity include restaurant design, service and, of course, the seafood itself. Let’s chart a course from south to north.

BENJAMIN GINSBERG

By BEN JA MIN EP S TEIN

1/24/18 3:24 PM

The Chart House in Dana Point

Buzzy Bent, Chart House co-founder with famed Hawaiian surfer Joey Cabell, favored organic architecture. Bent retained San Diego architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg, who had been inspired by the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, to design half a dozen of the restaurant’s locations. Chart House Dana Point, which marks its 40th anniversary next year, consists of three circular pods atop a bluff. The architecture alone makes any visit a special occasion. On a clear day, the view of the coast and

azure Pacific extends 50 miles; in the spring, you can spot migrating gray whales. Bunnies frolic on the lawn; the moon rises over Dana Point Harbor. The site is popular for weddings; pop the question at table 204, 205 or 206. Circular stairs lead from a street-level “crow’s nest” down to the restaurant. Decor inside includes a massive modern chandelier. Start with an apple Manhattan torched tableside or the Port of Manhattan, a nitrogen-infused “porthole” cocktail for two that takes 10 to 15 minutes to “build.”

The shrimp, crab, avocado and mango stack is both lively and delicate, with significant morsels of seafood. The sherry-laden lobster bisque is a standout, the salad bar expansive. Wicked Tuna presents ahi three ways—as tartare, on wonton-shell tacos and pepper-seared—with a mound of plantains. Globally inspired seafood entrées include crispy wok-fried whole fish and swordfish and spaetzle. Hard to resist are the Alaskan King crab legs, sweet and served with drawn butter and a loaded baked potato. Specials SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 21

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Bisque and calamari at Las Brisas in Laguna Beach

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The Cannery in Newport Beach and, right, its PEI mussels with soppresata

such as lobster habanero mezzaluna are first tested on the reality TV show Billion Dollar Buyer; its star is Tilman Fertitta, CEO/owner of Landry’s, Inc., whose massive restaurant portfolio includes the Chart House chain. Hot Lava Chocolate Cake with Godiva chocolate liqueur is the signature dessert. But dreamily unctuous housemade ice creams— in flavors such as peanut butter chocolate swirl—may be even more memorable. The same year Chart House opened, 1979, the Victor Hugo Inn, which had opened in 1938, was rechristened Las Brisas and changed its focus to Mexican West Coast cuisine—Californian and Mexican treatments of local seafood. The restaurant is on a point overlooking Heisler Park and has one of the most iconic views of the Laguna Beach coastline. Resort-like Las Brisas has a new Seaside Cantina with a 65-foot Koa-wood bar inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Consider the Casa Mesquite Orange Margarita, with Casamigos Reposado and a mesquite-grilled orange, or the very-special-occasion Top of the World ($60): Patrón Platinum and Grand Marnier Cuvée du Centenaire served in a locally handcrafted glass rimmed with red alaea salt. Cantina menu highlights include a pomegranate goat cheese taco and two versions of oysters, one on the half shell with Meyer lemon chimichurri, another with charred corn, roasted poblano peppers, mascarpone, chorizo and toasted panko. Make that three types of oysters: Chicken “oysters” come with crispy chicken skin and charred tomato jam. The popular patio offers its own menu, too, with three versions of tacos—ahi tuna, filet mignon and bacon, and citrus-marinated chicken—all incorporating jalapeño tater tots. Enjoy them around the colorful tile firepit. Among the dining room’s best ideas is

the lunch trio: Choose three of nine items, such as cauliflower two ways, tempura’d and puréed with black garlic and chile oil; crispy sweetbreads with plum chutney and sunflower seeds; and crab cake with poblano, chile vinaigrette, apple slaw and fennel pollen. Stars at dinner include a mixed seafood grill of charred octopus, shrimp, lobster, snow crab claws, fresh catch and new potatoes. Upon request, the restaurant will convert the festive surf and turf enchilada to a surf and surf, two rock lobster enchiladas with charred tomatillo sauce. Finish with coconut flan. Of the seafood restaurants that opened in Newport Beach in the 1970s, The Cannery Newport Beach has the most fascinating history. The area’s first commercial fish cannery was built on Newport Harbor’s Rhine Channel in 1921. Western Canners Co. took over the plant in 1934. When it closed in 1966, local businessmen envisioned a Montmartre by the sea, small shops and restaurants attracting both artists and visitors. Bill Hamilton reopened the plant as a restaurant in 1973, operating it for more than a quarter of a century, until 1999. Local resident Jack Croul bought it in 2000 and entrusted it to restaurateur Ron Salisbury, whose family founded El Cholo eateries in 1923. The Orange County Register deemed the Cannery one of the county’s 10 best places to eat in 2106 and noted its lobster carbonara. CBS Los Angeles featured its luxe lobster rolls, whole Maine lobster and preserved lemon butter on a top-loaded brioche bun with Old Bay seasoned chips. Take the stairs to the Jellyfish Lounge; be sure to look up at the whimsical jellyfish sculptures hanging from the ceiling as you ascend. The 911 roll—shrimp tempura, spicy

tuna, yellowtail, cucumber, jalapeños and chili oil—is a local favorite; an off-menu salmon-belly roll is superb. Also available are no-rice rolls. In the dining room downstairs, consider grilled octopus with aji-amarillo coconut sauce, pears, cucumber, pomegranates and pickled green papaya; loup de mer with charred broccolini, crispy fingerlings and bagna cauda; and the Balboa Sundae with caramelized bananas, vanilla ice cream, Heath Bar Crunch, mixed berries and more. A couple of Newport Beach seafood restaurants predate the Cannery. One, the quirky Crab Cooker, dating to 1951, is closed for structural repairs. The other, Woody’s Wharf, opened in 1965 and, as general manager Ralph Nudo quips, “She just won’t go away.” Nudo is one of four partners who grew up together in Whittier and have been friends for 30 years. Celebrities such as John Wayne, Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart and sports legends Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin have dined at Woody's. Past owner actor/karate champion Chuck Norris hired his martial-arts students to work at the restaurant: Doormen included Jean-Claude Van Damme. Woody Payne originally stored and repaired fishing-fleet boats at the site, then he opened a watering hole where his fellow fishermen could gather. Its unpretentiousness and fierce local following remain hallmarks. “Woody’s Famous” New England clam chowder, in a cup, bowl or bread bowl, deserves its moniker. It brims with clams, hand-torn potatoes and vegetables. Also on the menu: spicy bang bang shrimp, generous fish and chips—and ooh, butter cake! Other draws include regularly scheduled live music and deejays, an occasional magician and, always, eye-level harbor views. SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 23

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Costa Mesa

/ Santa Ana / Irvine / Tustin

Metro Cities Irvine, home of the historic Irvine Ranch, is O.C.’s financial hub. Santa Ana is the county seat. Tustin’s massive twin hangars are near the county’s geographic center. But Costa Mesa residents would say their city is the county’s heart.

Costa Mesa On one side of Bristol Street is South Coast Plaza, whose $2 billion in annual sales is highest among U.S. shopping destinations. On the other is O.C.’s center of culture—two concert halls and its largest repertory theater—and business high-rises. The late Henry Segerstrom and his family founded South Coast Plaza in 1967 on a lima bean field where as a youth he’d driven a tractor. Fifty years later, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. In fact, the state-designated tourist attraction boasts the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers. Openings during the semicentennial anniversary include Dior Homme and Stella McCartney. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and, across Bristol Street, Vaca, from former Bravo Top Chef runner-up Amar Santana, and Water Grill.

The nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts, built in 1986 mainly with Segerstrom money on Segerstrom land, includes 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall, presenting performing-arts genres including dance and Broadway musicals, and the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, a 2,000-seat facility designed by Cesar Pelli. Founders Hall and Samueli Theater are more intimate. The Julianne and George Argyros Plaza is new. The campus is also home to South Coast Repertory and ultimately the Orange County Museum of Art.

To the west is the South Coast Collection of design showrooms such as Design Within Reach, Pirch and Room & Board. Foodies frequent Arc restaurant, Portola Coffee Lab and the Saturday farmers market. Hip OC Mix features 30 vendors including Alexander Gray eyewear, the Mixing Glass and nationally acclaimed Taco María. South on Bristol are The Lab and The Camp shopping and dining centers. The Lab has the kinds of shops you’d likely find on L.A.’s trendy Melrose Avenue. Red & Blue Vintage is a recent additions. Opposite is the

Santa Ana Arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Grand Central Art Center. Mix Mix Kitchen + Bar and El Mercado Modern Cuisine make for one of the county's most exciting dining scenes. Find a dozen innovative fast-casual dining concepts at 4th Street Market. New food hall McFadden Public Market, on Main Street, features vintage arcade games and two bars. The bar scene—we favor Lola Gaspar—is burgeoning, too. The Yost Theater concert venue is an East End anchor.

great find

YOU’RE THE MAN Forget the quick in-and-out and open rows at barbershops. Services at fine men’s salon Eighteen Eight include 5-minute neckand-shoulder massage, cut, scalp cleansing/conditioning, straightblade cleanup and hot-towel finish—and unlimited wine and IPAs —in semiprivate stations. Add-ons include facials and manicures. 650 Anton Blvd., Suite F, Costa Mesa, 714.435.1888, eighteeneight.com

Irvine Spectrum, DALE BERMAN. Segerstrom Center and Bowers Museum, opposite, Edwin Santiago

Camp, set amid wood and aluminum. Dining options include Old Vine Café, Vitaly for Italian sandwiches and gelato and Taco Asylum for distinctive tacos. Dine-and-play center The Triangle offers bowling at Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, dining at Black Knight Gastro Lounge and Saddle Ranch Chop House and top-tier Time Nightclub. The O.C. Fair & Event Center hosts events year-round, the county fair and concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre in summer.

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Impressionist art on the ground floor of an office building. Near the airport, innovative Trade food hall debuted recently; superb Otoro sushi is its fine-dining anchor. Orange County Great Park offers a farmers market, an arts complex and a carousel; you can ride 400 feet up in the tethered orange balloon visible from the freeways. The restored blacksmith shop and general store of Old Town Irvine (Sand Canyon Avenue and Burt Road, 949.660.9112) now house a hotel and restaurants.

Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. Opposite: Irvine Spectrum Center, left, and Costa Mesa’s Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Bowers Museum, founded about 80 years ago, mounts blockbuster exhibitions with the world’s major museums. Visitors can also view pre-Columbian artifacts, Pacific Island art, an exhibit of local history and dine at the Patina Group’s Tangata. Discovery Cube science center’s namesake tilting cube is perched seemingly inches off Interstate 5. MainPlace houses Macy’s, Nordstrom and 200 shops, a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball court and open-air swimming pool, and Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ. Intimate Santa Ana Zoo is in Prentice Park; its highlights include a primate exhibit and children’s zoo. On the Irvine border, and sharing that city’s vibe, is John Wayne Airport, whose pleasant ambience and ease of departure and arrival make it vastly superior to LAX.

IRVINE Irvine offers a relatively problemfree world carved from the Irvine Co.’s land holdings. Irvine Spectrum Center’s Giant Wheel can be seen for miles from the 5, 405 and 133 freeways. The center’s 150 shops, many entertainmentrelated, restaurants such as Cucina Enoteca for Cal-Ital and new Habana for Cuban, and the nation’s most visited movie complex draw more visitors annually than Disneyland. UC Irvine’s Irvine Barclay Theatre presents music, dance and theatrical events. Nearby is the UCI Arboretum (Jamboree Road and Campus Drive, 949.824.5833). San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (949.261.7963) offers 10 miles of trails through coastal freshwater marshlands. The Irvine Museum houses Joan Irvine Smith’s collection of California

TUSTIN Forbes magazine has listed Tustin, which has preserved many of its 1870s buildings, in its Top 25 places “to live well.” The District at Tustin Legacy, at Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, is a sprawling “eatertainment” center. Draws include restaurants The Winery and J. Zhou Oriental Cuisine, a cineplex, and bowling at Bowlmor. Union Market offers an eclectic collection of dining concepts, notably Hatch for tiki drinks and sliders, Kettlebar Steam Cooking and Kroft for sandwiches. The nearby twin hangars that once housed airships are 1,000 feet long and 17 stories tall. The Market Place (714.730.4124), on Jamboree Road off Interstate 5, is older and even more sprawling. Though often called Tustin Market Place, part of it is actually in Irvine. Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen, designed by Thomas Schoos, is new. The Marconi Automotive Museum (714.258.3001) displays 80 vehicles, notably Ferraris and historic open-wheel race cars.

Officine Panerai

insider tips

IT'S ABOUT TIME South Coast Plaza’s Level 2 boasts one of the world’s premier collections of watch boutiques. A. Lange & Söhne Jewel Court, 657.205.4555 Jaeger-LeCoultre Carousel Court 949.548.8428 Officine Panerai Carousel Court, 714.481.7188 Omega Carousel Court, 714.850.0558 Piaget Nordstrom Wing 714.361.2020 Rolex Between Jewel and Carousel courts, 714.241.8088 Swatch Sears Wing, 714.444.1180 Tourbilloin Nordstrom Wing 714.800.1925 Tourneau/Patek Philippe Jewel Court, 714.850.0222 Vacheron Constantin Between Jewel and Carousel courts, 714.955.4057

WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 61. SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 25

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NEWPORT BEACH

/ BALBOA / CORONA DEL MAR / HUNTINGTON BEACH

THE COAST Newport Beach offers O.C.’s most pleasant shopping destination, countless fine restaurants, gorgeous golf and coveted real estate. Along the coast are wide sandy beaches, piers, the world’s largest pleasure-boat harbor and Surf City USA. Works gallery and upscale and on-the-moment boutiques. The action never stops around Newport Pier, off Newport Boulevard on McFadden Square. Stag Bar (1908) now has a kitchen. The Dory Fishing Fleet (1889) leaves in the wee hours of the morn; visit the open-air fish market after sunrise, then have breakfast at the Dory Deli.

BALBOA To reach the Balboa Pier, continue southeast on Newport Boulevard (its name changes to Balboa Boulevard at 22nd Street), turn right on Palm Street and park in the metered lot. The Wedge, where the peninsula meets the harbor jetty, is one of the world’s most famous bodysurfing and bodyboarding spots. Currents and riptides can be dangerous; don’t go in unless you know what you’re doing. The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum has become ExplorOcean. On the harbor side of Balboa Peninsula is the Balboa Pavilion, a 1905 cupola-topped structure that is the depot for boat excursions: harbor tours, whale-watching trips and Santa Catalina cruises. As classic pop-

Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Coast and, left, Balboa Island

song lyrics attest, Catalina, known for its beaches, buffalo and glass-bottom boats, is “26 miles across the sea.” The city of Avalon is 75 minutes away via the catamaran Catalina Flyer. The Balboa Island Ferry is a three-car shuttle between docks on the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, a community featuring charming cottages, shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants, notably new Mr. G’s Bistro and Tim Goodell’s Royal Hen gastropub. Marine Avenue is its only nonresidential street. Try a custom-dipped Balboa Bar.

CORONA DEL MAR Corona del Mar, whose streets are named for flowers, has

great find

STATIONERY WITH STYLE Something to write on home about! Founded by a pair of graphic designers, self-described connoisseurs of correspondence, luxury stationery destination Sugar Paper at Lido Marina Village is known for its meticulous design aesthetic. Cards, calendars or candles, file folders or phone cases, pens or Italian leather are all exquisite. 3434 Via Oporto, No. 105, Newport Beach, 949.524.3000, sugarpaper.com

BALBOA, ASHOK SINHA. CRYSTAL COVE, BENJAMIN GINSBERG

NEWPORT BEACH Newport Beach and its environs have been called California’s Riviera. Beaches and bougainvillea are a backdrop to yachts and dream homes, from cottages to some of the nation’s most expensive real estate. Its retail center is Newport Center, near Jamboree Road, Coast Highway and MacArthur Boulevard. Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s anchor elegant shopping destination Fashion Island, which recently marked its 50th anniversary. Voltaire & Zadig, St. John and Suitsupply boutiques are new. Dining options include Sushi Roku and Red O. Island Cinema offers leather seats and wine service. The renowned Orange County Museum of Art is temporarily closed; it will ultimately reopen at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, aka the Back Bay, boasts some 160 species of birds. Hike, bike or jog along 10 miles of trails. Rowing and kayaking are popular; rent equip-

ment from Newport Aquatic Center (949.646.7725). At Newport Dunes, Moe B’s Watersports (949.279.4507) rents kayaks and electric boats. Newport Beach has the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, on Coast Highway, is lined with restaurants such as The Winery and Pizzeria Mozza and luxury-car showrooms. Private charters and narrated harbor cruises, aboard vessels including luxury dining cruisers and romantic gondolas, depart from Mariner’s Mile as well as from Balboa Pavilion (see Balboa, below), and pass huge luxury abodes. All manner of watercraft rentals are possible, from canoes and kayaks to sailboats, motorboats and surrey-fringed electric boats. The “beach” in Newport Beach includes two piers, Balboa and Newport, great sandy expanses and one of the cleanest and most colorful bike paths and boardwalks anywhere. Harborside Lido Marina Village is a pedestrian shopping destination with tenants including new Nobu and Lido Bottle Works restaurants, Alchemy

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ViX Paula Hermanny

insider tips

SUIT YOURSELF Newport Beach offers a bounty of distinctive swimwear boutiques.

expansive beaches and some of the country’s most expensive real estate. Upscale destinations at Corona del Mar Plaza, near Fashion Island, include Diane’s for swimwear and Tommy Bahama as well as new VICI and gourmet pantry Baker & Olive. On East Coast Highway south of MacArthur Boulevard, is Sherman Library & Gardens, offering 2,000 plant species on two acres. Consider a repast at Café Jardin or the Tea Garden Crêperie. Coast Highway is lined with design showrooms, rug dealers and boutiques. You’ll find bodysurfing, volleyball, fire pits, all amenities and Tackle Box gourmet “grub shack” at Corona del Mar State Beach. Picturesque Little Corona Beach, setting for countless family photos, is just south. South of Corona del Mar is Newport Coast. Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers boutiques such as Atelier 7918 and restaurants Bluefin, Mastro’s Ocean Club and newly

relocated French destination Marché Moderne. Nearby are Crystal Cove State Park, with its miles of sandy coves and miles of trails, and gorgeous Pelican Hill Golf Club.

HUNTINGTON BEACH Surf City USA has become more sophisticated. Though Huntington Beach retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks identity, shops, fine-dining options and luxury hotels have made for a dramatic transformation. Main Street is a promenade with lots of surfwear and beachwear shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Pacific City offers acres of retail and dining, including Kin boutique and LSXO and Bluegold restaurants. Hip lounges include The Bungalow and, atop Tanner’s, Treehouse Lounge. Next to Huntington Beach Pier Plaza are Duke’s and Sandy’s HB restaurants; the plaza hosts live music and farmers markets.

Three beaches—Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach—are popular for surfing and volleyball and for their fire rings. Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve (714.846.1114) boats 200 species of migratory birds in a salt-marsh setting with a 1.5-mile loop trail. Inland, at Talbert Avenue and Goldenwest Street, is 350acre Huntington Central Park; the park encompasses Shipley Nature Center (714.842.4772), an equestrian center, two “lakes” and the Central Library (714.842.4481). Tenants at 5 Points Plaza include Loft, CloudMover Day Spa and Vans; the dog-friendly center even has a barking lot. Draws at Tuscan-themed Bella Terra shopping destination include outdoor-sports specialist REI and Solita for excellent tacos and margaritas. Nearby is Old World Village, hub for all things German, notably dachshund races.

Beach Bunny Swimwear 2210 Newport Blvd. Suite 104 949.873.5711 beachbunnyswimwear.com Diane’s Beachwear Corona del Mar Plaza 920 Avocado Ave. 949.759.6880 dianesbeachwear.com San Lorenzo Bikinis Fashion Island 401 Newport Center Drive 949.759.1504 sanlorenzobikinis.com Seafolly Fashion Island 1135 Newport Center Drive 949.706.7690, seafolly.com Swimspot Fashion Island 259 Newport Center Drive 949.706.2996, swimspot.com ViX Paula Hermanny Fashion Island 259 Newport Center Drive 949.600.4490 vixpaulahermanny.com

WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 61. SPRING 2018 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 27

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LAGUNA BEACH

/ DANA POINT / SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO / SAN CLEMENTE

SOUTH COAST

LAGUNA BEACH Admire the sculptures at Laguna College of Art + Design as you enter the county’s original art colony along Laguna Canyon Road. In fact, it is easy to spend a day along the thoroughfare before ever entering the city proper, especially during the three summer art festivals— Festival of Arts, Laguna ArtA-Fair and the Sawdust Art Festival—and renowned “living tableaux” presentation Pageant of the Masters. Acclaimed Laguna Playhouse offers comedic and profound fare year-round. Laguna Canyon Road becomes Broadway, then comes to a T at Coast Highway. Turn either way and you’ll find galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Up the hill to the right, Laguna Art Museum presents modern and contemporary art, mostly by California painters, explores pop culture and displays art from Laguna’s past, particularly seascapes. Steps away are coastal vistas at Heisler Park

and a stretch of Coast Highway called North Gallery Row, where you’ll find Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953) and Tiki-chic Royal Hawaiian restaurant. Broadway ends at Main Beach. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a playground and a boardwalk—and it's just across the street from the downtown heart of Laguna, aka the Village, whose distinctive shops and galleries include the sculpture garden at Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery (326 Glenneyre St., 888.972.5543). South along Coast Highway are top-notch

dining options including hockey great Teemu Selänne’s Selanne Steak Tavern, posh Studio at the Montage and new Harvest at the Ranch at Laguna Beach.

DANA POINT Richard Henry Dana, the seaman who wrote 1840’s Two Years Before the Mast, described the area now named for him as the California coast’s “only romantic spot,” noting its “grandeur” and “solemnity.” You’ll find grandeur but little solemnity along Harbor Drive, bustling with boaters, diners, shoppers and those headed to see the tall ships in port.

In addition to its sand and shore, Doheny State Beach offers five acres of lawn. Families picnic, couples rent bicycles. An interpretive center focuses on the underwater Doheny State Marine Life Refuge. The beach hosts a blues festival in May and, during the summer, Lobsterfest, a surf competition and outrigger racing. Fourth of July, the busiest day of the year, features fireworks launched from a barge. At the end of the harbor’s rocky ledge are tide pools, public benches and basking seals. Dana Point Harbor has 2,500 slips for vessels of all sizes, three yacht clubs, a fishing pier and Dana Wharf Sportfishing, which offers whale-watching trips. The Ocean Institute displays the Pilgrim, a full-sized replica of the brig on which Dana sailed. Wharf highlights include White Pelican Gallery for Native American jewelry (34475 Golden Lantern St., 949.240.1991) and the Harbor Grill seafooder. North of town are luxury hotels featuring superior dining—new Bourbon Steak at the Monarch Beach Resort and Raya at the Ritz-Carlton—and pristine Salt Creek Beach Park.

great find

THE BUZZ IN LAGUNA Best known for its Vietnamese VTM “Crack” Iced Coffee, BLKdot Coffee opens a second location in North Laguna; the original is in Irvine. The neighborhood grind has patrons buzzing from espresso classics and iced specialty beverages; they recharge with savory breakfast and sandwich selections as well as freshly baked pastries. 656 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.371.0288, blkdotcoffee.com

MISSION, EDWIN SANTIAGO. LAGUNA GALLERY AND BEACH, ASHOK SINHA. SALT ARTWORK: ANDRIY HALASHYN, KISS MY ANIMAL BALOON

Four of the county’s most historic cities are nestled into its southern corner: Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente along Coast Highway, and nearby San Juan Capistrano. All offer shopping, dining and natural beauty.

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Main Beach in Laguna Beach. Opposite: Mission San Juan Capistrano and, in Laguna Beach, Joanne Artman Gallery

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO There’s no beach in this burg, but there’s plenty of history, style and charm. Mission San Juan Capistrano, the birthplace of Orange County, was founded by Father Junípero Serra in 1776, the same year America was born. It took nine years to build its Great Stone Church, completed in 1806; it took one minute for an earthquake to destroy it six years later, killing 40 people. The priests left the ruins, a dramatic benchmark of the struggle to build California. The dome atop the nearby rail station was made with stones from the ruins. Priests still celebrate Mass in the Serra Chapel; the original adobe walls shelter a magnificent Baroque altarpiece decorated with 52 carved goldleaf angels. The 10-acre site is filled with walkways, gardens, fountains and exhibits. Mission

events include the renowned Swallows Day Parade in March. Just across the train tracks is Los Rios Historic District. A stroll along Los Rios Street is a most pleasant experience; 31 homes, the earliest dating to 1794, look as they did in centuries past. Near the train station is the O’Neill Museum (31831 Los Rios St., 949.493.8444), home to the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. The train goes right by Ramos House Café, which offers an unforgettable breakfast in an 1881 board-and-batten house. Camino Capistrano is lined with shops and restaurants. One of South County’s most popular taverns is the colorful Swallow’s Inn (31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188). For a different kind of nightlife, consider the nearby Camino Real Playhouse (31776 El Camino Real, 949.489.8082). San Juan Capistrano Regional Library (31495

El Camino Real, 949.493.1752) is a postmodern masterpiece by architect Michael Graves. San Juan Capistrano is the county’s equestrian center; luxurious residences, many with their own stables, surround the city. Eight miles to the east is Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park (33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210).

SAN CLEMENTE La Casa Pacifica, site of President Richard Nixon’s Western White House, has long since been broken up into million-dollar homes by a private developer. But you can still see Casa Romantica (415 Avenida Granada, 949.498.2139), once the residence of the city’s founder, oil entrepreneur Ole Hanson. On a hillside overlooking San Clemente Pier, it’s the site of the city’s Cultural Center and Gardens, offering galleries and a popular veranda. From the pier, the sun sets across the blue water between Catalina Island and the Dana Point bluffs—just look past the constant stream of surfers. Metrolink and Amtrak trains run alongside the beach and stop at the pier. Find shopping and dining on El Camino Real and Avenida del Mar, lined with antique stores and galleries, and at The Outlets at San Clemente, a spectacular shopping destination marrying luxury and discount. Tenants include Guess, Nike and new Luxury Mall. Talega Golf Club, above the city, was designed with help from Masters champion Fred Couples (949.369.6226). Blue Eyed Girl boutique and Sundried Tomato bistro are among draws at Talega Village Center.

Aviator Nation

insider tips

WEAR O.C. Laguna Beach boutiques never go out of style. Here are some favorites. Anastasia Boutique 460 Ocean Ave. 949.497.1212 anastasiaboutique.com Aviator Nation 1143 S. Coast Hwy. 949.715.7887 aviatornation.com Blue Eyed Girl 1200 S. Coast Hwy. Suite 106, 949.715.4646 shopblueeyedgirl.com Fetneh Blake 427 N. Coast Hwy. 949.494.3787 fetnehblake.com Just Looking Boutique 384 Forest Ave. 949.494.8208 justlookingboutique.net Laguna Supply 210 Beach St. 949.497.8850 lagunasupply.com Rock Etiquette 370 Ocean Ave. 949.715.1121 rocketiquette.com

WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 61. FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 63.

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ANAHEIM

/ BUENA PARK / ORANGE / FULLERTON

NORTH COUNTY

ANAHEIM Since Walt Disney opened the Disneyland main gate in 1955, families have made the pilgrimage, starting with the yesteryear pleasures of Main Street, U.S.A.; Star Wars now brings epic encounters to Tomorrowland. A mountain range of thrill rides includes Space Mountain, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain. The park recently marked its 60th anniversary. Guests enter sister park Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, which evokes the era when Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles; its Carthay Circle Theatre houses an elegant restaurant. Guardians of the Galaxy— Mission: Breakout! is new. The thrills never end at global gliding simulation Soarin’ Around the World and California Screamin’ coaster. World of Color wows nightly with choreographed fountains, lights, lasers, music, film and animation. There’s no admission at adjacent Downtown Disney, a lively promenade lined with

shops, entertainment venues and dining destinations such as Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar. Eateries range from fast to fancy; none outclasses the Grand Californian Hotel’s Napa Rose. “Eatertainment” destination Anaheim GardenWalk offers more than a dozen eateries including Roy’s Restaurant and Grasslands; nightlife, notably new House of Blues Anaheim; shops including Red Apparel and Harley-Davidson; and attractions such as Mission Escape Games and Go VR Gaming. Acclaimed restaurant and saloon The Ranch is nearby. Honda Center is home to the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey team and L.A. Kiss football team and host to touring acts such as Janet Jackson and Imagine Dragons. American Sports Centers Anaheim, the world’s largest indoor court facility, features 34 volleyball courts that convert into 25 basketball courts. Nearby is the region’s architecturally stunning Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). At Angel Stadium, “the Big A,” majorleague baseball rules when the

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play; arena rock acts occasionally invade when the team is away. Anaheim Convention Center’s Grand Plaza is always abuzz. The Anaheim Packing District includes hip shops and restaurants on Center Street Promenade. The historic Anaheim Packing House offers foodie vendors of all kinds, and it’s a smash. Our favorites include Adya for Cal-Indian, Georgia’s for Southern and Hammer Workshop & Bar for cocktails. New MAKE, in a 1919 marmalade factory opposite, adds Unsung Brewing Co. and other beverage vendors. Muzeo is a small museum nearby. Anaheim Ice, training facility for the Anaheim Ducks, is open for public skating.

BUENA PARK Roller coaster, Old West and boysenberry jam enthusiasts flock to Knott’s Berry Farm, a theme park with roots dating back to 1934, when farmers Walter and Cordelia Knott opened a roadside stand selling berries and a diner dishing fried chicken. Diners still feast on drumsticks and berry pie at

Knott’s Chicken Dinner; shoppers stroll California Marketplace, which has a nearby Independence Hall replica (1966). Inside the park is a daunting collection of roller coasters. Xcelerator rockets to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds. GhostRider is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters. New Sol Spin rotates riders in all directions at once. Less hair-raising are the kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. Ghost Town recently marked its 75th anniversary. Explore bygone eras without leaving Beach Boulevard. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament revisits an 11thcentury castle. Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry

great find

ANOTHER WORLD Premier virtual-reality arcade Go VR Gaming resembles a calm office setting with spacious cubicles, but its technologically superior 3-D experiences take visitors worlds away. Experiences range from Relax Walk to VR Sports, Catlateral Damage and Drunkn Bar Fight; even just watching players can be fun. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 Disney Way, Suite 153, Anaheim, 714.829.4189, govrgaming.com

PACKING HOUSE, DALE BERMAN. DISNEYLAND, EDWIN SANTIAGO. BIBBIDI, COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT

Long before orange groves and Walt Disney shaped the Anaheim landscape, the region was California’s first wine country, thanks to German immigrants. Now its world-class attractions make it the gateway to endless fun and joyful memories.

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insider tips In Anaheim: Astro Orbiter at Disneyland and, opposite, Anaheim Packing House food hall

starring Pure Spanish stallions while serfs and wenches serve a four-course feast. A banquet at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure fortifies guests for skirmishes aboard a replicated 18th-century galleon in an indoor lagoon. Teatro Martini dinner cabaret recently opened at the same location.

ORANGE Old Towne Orange often appears in movies and commercials, thanks to its preserved pre-1940 homes and buildings. Anchored by a picturesque traffic circle— oval, actually—at Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street, the district is on the National Register of Historic Places. It includes antique shops and restaurants such as Haven Gastropub and Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen. The Orange Chamber of Commerce (439 E. Chapman Ave.) offers a map of historic sights. Chapman University is one of the state’s oldest private universities. New are its Musco Center for the Arts and, nearby, Hilbert

Museum of California Art. To the east, Irvine Park’s Orange County Zoo and narrow-gauge train are ideal for wee ones. Big kids go for The Outlets at Orange, where draws include high-end discount retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th and new Nordstrom Rack. Families head for Lucky Strike Lanes and Vans Skatepark. Nearby Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove—formerly known as Crystal Cathedral—is a must-tour for architecture buffs.

FULLERTON Most visitors to Fullerton, home of California State University, Fullerton, gravitate to the historic core along Harbor Boulevard, with its endless boutiques and watering holes. Near Commonwealth Avenue, a short stroll from the historic train station, are night spots and restaurants such as Matador Cantina and Twisted Vine. Significant sights include the Fullerton Museum Center,

offering dynamic exhibits such as a gallery devoted to Leo Fender, native son and pioneer of the electric guitar. The museum offers maps pinpointing fine examples of architectural styles within walking distance. The stately Muckenthaler Cultural Center hosts varied design and art events and exhibits. The Fullerton Arboretum at CSUF offers streams, trails and a restored Victorian cottage. East in Yorba Linda is the birthplace of Richard M. Nixon. The tiny home and impressive rose garden are on the grounds of the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum, which recently marked its 25th anniversary. Exhibits include a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office and one that focuses on his historic trip to China. Birch Street Promenade in Brea offers shops, restaurants such as Brunos Italian Kitchen and stand-up comedy. Brea Mall is huge; its dining options include HaiDiLao Fusion Shabu.

HOPPY DAYS There’s always something brewing in Anaheim! Here are the city’s newest breweries. All-American Ale Works 5220 E. La Palma Ave. Unit 103, 657.549.2140 all-americanaleworks.com Asylum Brewing 2970 E. La Palma Ave. Suite D, 949.396.2099 asylumbrewing.beer Bruery Terreux 1174 N. Grove St. 714.996.6258 brueryterreux.com Golden Road Brewing 2210 E. Orangewood Ave. 714.912.4015 goldenroad.la Hoparazzi Brewing Co. 2910 La Palma Ave. 714.204.0655 Towne Park Brew 1566 W. Lincoln Ave. 714.844.2492 towneparkbrew.com Unsung Brewing Co. 500 S. Anaheim Blvd. 714.406.3098 unsungbrewing.com

WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 61. FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 63.

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Fresh Italian Cuisine ● Happy Hour ● Banquets ● Full-Service Catering ● Kid Friendly

South Coast Plaza Village

(714) 751-7153

3800 South Plaza Drive Santa Ana, CA 92704

www.antonello.com

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South Coast Plaza

(714) 754-0300

3333 Bristol St #1201 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.quattrocaffe.com

South Coast Plaza

(714) 557-5232

3333 Bear St. #2887 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

www.antonello.com

1/24/18 1:33 PM

THE GUIDE SPRING 2018

DINING

TODD PORTER

Raising the Steaks Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge, the sophisticated fine-dining destination in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa since the venue opened in 2006, reopens as a steakhouse (p. 43). Snake River Farms wagyu-style New York steaks star but elaborately presented starters such as roasted baby beets and the foie gras torchon may steal the show; heirloom carrots with lebneh and dukkah spice play a winning supporting role. Patina Group chef Greg Stillman also oversees new Center 360, the curvilinear open-air café adjoining the larger Segerstrom Hall and a focal point of the center’s new Julianne and George Argyros Plaza. Weekdays offer “favacado” toast and braised-short-rib grilled cheese with Gruyere and apricot jam; street tacos and olive-oil-poached tuna on crusty baguette are added at performance times (p. 34).

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THE GUIDE

/ DINING AMERICAN A RESTAURANT Stylish spot—”classically hip since 1926”—with red leather booths. Kentucky fried quail; Imperial Wagyu coulotte steak. Café/market adjacent. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 3334 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 $$$ Map N13 ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Distinctive fare—e.g., crab cones, venison shank—and excellent cocktails amid striking decor; garden terrace with fire “tornadoes.” Saturday brunch is new; try the salmon breakfast toast. L (M-F), D (M-Sa), Br (Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4 ARC Chef Noah Blöm’s “flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine amid rustic-apothecary decor. Butcher’s Love for four may be O.C.’s best steak; superb cocktails use housemade everything. L, D (daily). New Arc Pizza House is adjacent. South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12 BACK BAY BISTRO Snazzy spot overlooks Back Bay at the Dunes; retractable roof. Cancun-style shrimp cocktail, Kobe beef sliders, New York steak au poivre. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). Newport Dunes, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.1144 $$ Map M14

Sensational Sequel The taco-centric menu may be the same, but the second Irvine location of Puesto has outdone the acclaimed original. Towering wooden arches, inspired by a 19th-century Mexican silver mine, frame ceilings and rock walls at Puesto Park Place. There are eye-popping streetstyle tile murals, glass walls that open for indoor-outdoor dining, and an ingenious tequila carousel. Tacos—e.g., zucchini and cactus, chicken al pastor with hibiscus chipotle tinga and piña habanero pico, filet mignon with spicy pistachio serrano salsa—feature blue-corn tortillas and crispy melted cheese. Other faves: guacamole nogada with pomegranate arils, mango, chile de arbol and candied walnuts; frozen horchata; and piña colada carrot cake. In addition to tequilas and mezcals, agave spirits include sotols, raicillas and bacanoras. p. 40

BAD TO THE BONE “Real-pit BBQ” (brisket, tri-tip, pulled pork), blackened catfish, mesquite-fired steaks amid cowboy ambiance. L, D (daily). 31738 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.0227 $$ Map I17 THE BEACHCOMBER Historic cottage on the sand at Crystal Cove State Park. Prime flat iron steak with wildmushroom-and-truffle mac; Gimme s’mores! Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Los Trancos lot shuttle. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 BENJIES DELI Old-school N.Y.-style deli known for matzoh-ball soup; bar bites at its Avenue K include reuben fritters and brisket quesadilla. B, L, D (daily). 1828 N. Tustin Ave., Santa Ana, 714.541.6263 $$ Map G14 BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Original spot of Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana—the second, Vaca, is in Costa Mesa—presents creative “cuisine of the Americas” and great cocktails. D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234 $$$ Map H15

GUIDELINES Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3;Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 61-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

INDEX American...................... 34 Brewpubs/Gastropubs.36 California...................... 36 Chinese......................... 37 Continental................... 36 Eclectic......................... 38 Food Halls.................... 44 French........................... 38 International................. 38 Italian............................ 38

Japanese...................... 38 Mediterranean.............. 39 Mexican/Latin............... 40 Quick Bites................... 44 Seafood......................... 41 Steak............................. 42 Thai............................... 43 Vegan............................ 43 Vietnamese................... 43

creme chantilly. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 330 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.281.2582 $$ Map K12 THE CRACK SHACK New. Bravo Top Chef All-Stars winner Richard Blais offers chicken- and egg-centric dishes in a dual-level space amid whimsical chicken-themed decor. Spicy Firebird sandwich; fried chicken with six housemade sauces on tap; matzo ball pozole. B, L, D (daily). 196 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.383.5040 $$ Map K12 DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN & BAR Overlooks the sand. Whole Santa Barbara uni with hamachi and sea-urchin vinaigrette; foie-gras-stuffed Mary’s Chicken and morels. Cozy-edgy Stateroom Bar. B, L (daily); D (Su-Th); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.715.7700 $$ Map I15 EAT CHOW “Chowified” fare includes Southern, French, Mexican and Cuban favorites. B, L, D (daily). 1802 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.2469; 211 62nd St., Newport Beach, 949.423.7080; 313 N. Bush St., Santa Ana, 657.266.0500 $$ Map K12, N12, C4 FARMHOUSE Rich Mead’s new field-to-fork-inspired café, a centerpiece of Roger’s Gardens, is a hit, especially with the lunching ladies. L, D (daily). 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar, 949.640.1415 $$$ Map L16

THE CELLAR Cheese shop—a fantastic selection—plus wine bar and excellent restaurant with live music and dog-friendly patio. B, L, D (T-Su). 158 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663 $$ Map south of F6

GREAT MAPLE Comfort classics transformed: charred cauliflower hummus; buttermilk fried chicken and maple bacon doughnuts; lobster popover benedict. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 1133 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.1415 $$$ Map L15

CENTER 360 Chef Greg Stillman of Leatherby’s Café Rouge oversees a curvilinear, casual outdoor cafe on the Segerstrom Center’s new plaza. B, L (M-F); D on performance days. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2122, Ext. 4042 $$ Map J13

HENDRIX Chef Rainer Schwarz and team behind the Deck and Driftwood in Laguna Beach offer New American: seafood, fire-roasted steaks and rotisserie. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 32431 Street of the Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.248.1912 $$ Map I16

CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery offers rotisserie chicken, baby-back ribs, six-layer Motherlode Cake and its own craft beer. Happy hour daily. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Seven locations include South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.8479; 190 S. State College Blvd., Brea, 714.529.9061; 2250 E. 17th St., Santa Ana, 714.836.6658 $$ Map J13, A3, G14

HOPDODDY One of “the best burgers in America,” says Food & Wine; Terlingua chili cheeseburger. L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2337; Tustin Marketplace, 3030 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.505.2337 $$ Map L15, C5

CITIZEN KITCHEN Sports bar meets urban lounge meets grilled Spanish octopus and Prime N.Y. strip bibimbap. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Hotel Fullerton, 1500 S. Raymond Ave., Fullerton, 714.635.9000 $$$ Map A3

HOUSE OF BLUES Restaurant and bar at spectacular concert venue offers Southern fare: voodoo shrimp, Nashville hot fried chicken salad, and smokehouse St. Louis ribs. Roof-raising Sunday Gospel Brunch; drag brunch first Saturday of each month. L, D (daily). 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.778.2583 $$ Map I10

THE COUNTRY CLUB Old-school decor evokes a Gatsby-esque sports club; new from the owners of Grey Goose Tavern. Popcorn-infused Shinnecock cocktail; hamachi tacos on jicama shells; Aspen Ridge filet mignon; caramelized white chocolate bread pudding with salted

JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR Chef Daniel Hyatt uses locally sourced ingredients to elevate modern American dishes; top-notch cocktails; brunch (and brunch cocktails) are new. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map K13

W Mesa in Costa Mesa boasts O.C.’s largest succulent plant (p. 39). Organic Designs by Aggelige, also at the Camp, sells succulents in an Airstream trailer. 34 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2018

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BRUNCH

•

LUNCH

•

DINNER

•

HAPPY HOUR

E NJ OY SEASONAL INGREDIENTS A N D CR A F T COCKTAILS, FR OM BRUNCH THR O U G H DIN N E R . 1 1 3 3 N ew po r t Ce nte r Drive , Newpo rt Be a c h , CA 9 2 6 6 0 ww w.t h eg r eatmapl e . co m LA JOLLA

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NEWPORT BEACH

PASADENA

SAN DIEGO

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DINING RUBY’S DINER Vintage-inspired spots popular with families serve burgers, fries and shakes. Three of 17 locations are at the end of piers. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Pier, 949.675.RUBY; Huntington Beach Pier, 714.969. RUBY; $ Map N15, N9 and west of N7

JT SCHMID’S RESTAURANT AND BREWERY Beers brewed on-site and brewpub cuisine: wood-fired pizzas, Prime steaks, burgers, jambalaya and sashimi. L, D (daily). 2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.634.9200; 2415 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.0333 $$ Map I11, D4

SADDLE RANCH CHOP HOUSE Rock-western experience with mechanical bull; look for the stagecoach on the roof. Extensive American menu, south-of-the-border accents. B, L, D (daily). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.287.4652; Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 657.221.3136 $$ Map K12 and J11

MRK PUBLIC Three chefs offer elevated pub fare, notably Tuscan Toast, Vietnamese Sticky Wings and fried chicken sandwich, and craft beers (all $5). L, D (Tu-Su). 1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.441.7621 $$ Map south of F6

SAINT MARC PUB-CAFE, BAKERY & CHEESE AFFINAGE Innovative concept has an indoor-outdoor bar and a bacon bar offering bacon flights. 100 cheese, 32 wines on draft, 32 craft canned beers. B, L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.1101 $$ Map N9

LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ Beignets, burgers, bánh-mì buns and bouillabaisse in lighthouse-shaped harbor-view restaurant. Newly expanded cocktail list. B, L, D (daily). Marina Park, 1600 W. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.933.1001 $$ Map N14 OLD VINE CAFÉ Regional and seasonal; a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple French toast, beef-tongue panini or any of several ever-impressive fourcourse tasting menus. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 PARK AVE Creative renditions of classic American fare use house-made/home-grown specialties. Most produce grown on premises; visit the garden! Architecture is Googie, decor midcentury retro. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 PLAYGROUND Owner/chef Jason Quinn, whose Lime Truck won Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race, offers excellent New American small plates: cauliflower nachos; Uncle Lou’s fried chicken; Wagyu tri-tip. D (Tu-Sa). 220 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 RAINFOREST CAFE Creative decor, animatronics and special effects bring the rain forest indoors; dine among lightning storms and wild animals. Expansive menu; kids’ menu. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10 RALPH BRENNAN’S JAZZ KITCHEN Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo YaYa, bananas Foster. Beignets at Jazz Kitchen Express; romantic dining upstairs; casual meals downstairs. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10 RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ One of the county’s best restaurants serves O.C.’s best breakfast on the covered patio of an 1881 house next to the train tracks in historic district. B, L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17 THE RANCH Sophisticated restaurant with adjacent super-fun saloon. Chef Michael Rossi offers fried Petaluma quail, glorious bone-in cowboy rib-eye; try brother David’s pecan pie. Most produce comes daily from the Ranch’s farm. D (nightly). 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 $$$ Map I11 RECESS ROOM Boyhood chums’ hip spot with hip menu: blue-crab beignets; bone-marrow mac and cheese; porcini-dusted sweetbreads; Kurobuta pig head; Smoke and Mirrors whiskey cocktail; after-school specials. D (daily), Br (Su). 18380 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 714.377.0398 $$ Map G13 ROYAL HAWAIIAN First opened in 1947; third incarnation respects Polynesian spirit, adds fun Tiki-chic touches. Happy hour 2:30-5:30 pm. L, D (daily). 331 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1470 $$ Map H15

SANDY’S BEACH SHACK Southern California vibe, vibrant setting steps from the sand at Huntington Beach Pier. Regionally inspired cuisine and huge patio. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 315 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.7273 $$ Map N9 SEASONS 52 Lower calorie. Lots of flavor. Fab bar, stylish decor, eclectic seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts, superior wine list. New brunch brings memorable brick-oven brioche “French toast.” L, D (daily); Br (Su). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5252 $$ Map J13 SKYLOFT Rooftop venue atop historic building has highway/ocean views. Local brews, live music. B (SaSu); L, D (daily). 422 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1550 $$ Map I16 SOCIAL Hip spot offers intriguing cuisine and superb cocktails near the Triangle. Wood-fired oysters; fried cauliflower; Akaushi-beef Drive Thru Burger; Wagyu tri-tip. B, L, D (daily). 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.2425 $$ Map K12 THREE SEVENTY COMMON Chef Ryan Adams offers winning fare such as halibut with peas, mint, onion and preserved lemon. Apple fried pies. Family-style Sunday Night Social dinners. D (nightly). 370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map H15 320 MAIN Chef Jaime Carrano serves elevated fare such as citrus-cured salmon bite, roasted bone marrow with braised oxtail marmalade; owners Jason and Rebecca Schiffer fashion cutting-edge cocktails. D (Tu-Su). 320 Main St., Seal Beach, 562.799.6246 $$ Map C1 WATERTABLE Restaurant and “gastro bar” in “living rooms” and on ocean-view patio. Shareable Bar Jars; to-die-for burger; honey-lavender Berkshire pork. B, L, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.1234 $$ Map N9 WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN & CAFE California’s original soda fountain (1899). It’s newly hip but retains its retro vibe; some shakes come with booze. B, L, D (daily). 116 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.363.3773 $$ Map J11 WRECKLESS New. Chef Cody Storts creates menus with reckless abandon. Try Tar-Tar (Piedmontese eye of round, chile de arbol sauce, blackberries) and duck breast “coriander and gumbo.” B, L, D (Tu-F); Br (Sa-Su). 136 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.519.3179 $$ Map B3

BREWPUBS AND GASTROPUBS HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Superlative burgers—including new James Beard challenge breakfast burger—Jidori chicken-liver toast, whole roasted suckling pig. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680 $$ Map C4

THE ROYAL HEN Tim Goodell (Aubergine, Troquet) is back with a bustling gastropub on Balboa Island. Chicken pot pie; French breakfast radishes; steak tartare with puffed tendon; lamb rump with charred plums. D (T-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 3311 Marine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.873.5603 $$ Map M15 SIDE DOOR Superb spot shares replica of England’s oldest inn with landmark Five Crowns. Artisanal cheese, charcuterie, seasonal plates and world-class brews—plus elevated British pub fare—make every visit memorabe. D (nightly). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322 $$ Map M16

CALIFORNIA CUISINE BLUEGOLD Sleek California coastal: raw bar, charcuterie, seafood steam kettles, creative pizzas, plates du jour. ADD (See Vietnamese for restaurant-within-a-restaurant, LSXO.) B, L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0038 $$ Map N9 THE CURE New Cal-Asian kitchen and bar. Crispy spring rolls with japchae, shrimp and issan lamb; addictive udon and cheese; whole crispy striped sea bass; O.G. Fashioned cocktail. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 7862 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach, Suite 101, 714.375.8980 $$ Map D2 HARVEST Dining room at relaunched resort with golf and dramatic canyon views. Hamachi crudo, half Mary’s Chicken, popcorn panna cotta dessert. B, L, D (daily). The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 $$ Map I16 K’YA BISTRO BAR Chef Craig Connole has created more than 50 small plates for lively spot inside historic La Casa del Camino Hotel; sharing is encouraged. D (nightly). La Casa del Camino, 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.9718 $$ Map I16 LIDO BOTTLE WORKS Provocative menu includes a wreath of cauliflower, trumpet mushrooms and golden raisins; salmon belly with bacon, clam and dill gel. Cool vintage touches. New chef. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Lido Marina Village, 3408 Via Oporto, Suite 103, Newport Beach, 949.529.2784 $$ Map N13 NAPA ROSE Wine country at Disney Resort is a celebration of beauty in the bottle and the bounty of nature; chef Andrew Sutton offers sophisticated seasonal fare; staff includes dozens of sommeliers. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1313 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.635.2300 $$$ Map I10 OAK GRILL Chef Peter Lai puts a new imprint on the creative California menu. Fifty wines by the glass. Shares huge patio with Aqua Lounge. B, L, D (daily). Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 $$$$ Map L15 OAK LAGUNA BEACH New. Stylish dining room and wrap-around balcony overlook Coast Highway. Meatball starter, local albacore stack, frozen Nutella cappuccino, Oasis mai tai. L, D (daily), Br (Su). 1100 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.940.3010 $$ Map H15 OLEA New. Russ Bendel (Vine, Ironwood) and chefpartner Jared Cook open third wine-country concept, this one with a Euro twist. Crispy Meyer lemon duck wings; schnitzel. B, L, D (daily). 2001 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.275.5394 $$$ Map M13

TALIA SAMUELS

Smoked salmon bagel bites at Aveo brunch in Dana Point, p. 39

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DINING PACIFIC HIDEAWAY Chef J.T. Walker presents excellent share plates with Southeast Asia or Latin American influences. Lao sausage wraps, whole crispy snapper, Kite Surfer cocktail. Br, D (daily). Shorebreak Hotel, 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.965.4448 $$ Map N9 PROVENANCE Cathy Pavlos’ wine-country-farmhousethemed spot has impressive patio garden. Pan-roasted cauliflower kung pao, s’more in a jar dessert. Fantastic brunch. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2531 Eastbluff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0477 $$ Map L14 SEALEGS WINE BAR Seasonal share plates—Pig and Fig Flatbread, bananas Foster French toast—and winning bar amid Hamptons-style decor. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.536.5700 $$ Map M9 SEASALT WOODFIRE GRILL The SeaLegs Wine Bar team channels California’s Santa Maria Valley: tri-tip steaks over red-oak coals, house-made sea salts, “craft rim” cocktails. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21214 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.804.5545 $$$ Map D2 SHADES Casual elegance, deft Cal-Continental menu and ocean views. Lavish brunch. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Waterfront Hilton, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.8444 $$ Map N9 SPLASHES RESTAURANT AND BAR Indoors by the fireplace or on the patio steps from the sand, meals are meant to be gorgeous memories. B, D (daily); L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). Surf & Sand Hotel, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.4477, ext. 550 $$$ Map H15 STUDIO Airy bluff-top Arts and Crafts-style bungalow with gorgeous azure and endless Pacific view oozes an offhand luxury befitting its premium resort setting. Chef Craig Strong reaches far beyond the predictably posh. D (Tu-Su). Montage Resort & Spa, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6420 $$$$ Map I16 TANGATA Lunch spot off Bowers Museum’s Missionstyle courtyard offers Pacific Rim-inflected cuisine. Spam taco, Laughing Bird shrimp salad, Korean marinated skirt steak, banana spring roll. L (Tu-Su). 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.550.0906 $$ Map G13 TANNER’S Pool and ocean views, fare cooked on open fire—plus stunning rooftop Treehouse Lounge with a superb cocktail list. B, L, D (daily). Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130 $$ Map N9 TWO LEFT FORKS Winning spot in Dana Point opens larger sibling in Irvine. Hazelnut-crusted goat-cheese croquettes with spicy carrot purée; soy-sake Alaskan black cod. Dana Point: D (Tu-Su); Irvine: L, D (daily). 34212 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.489.8911; 6511 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.387.6700 $$$ Map D4, N13

STEAKS

THIS GOOD ARE

RARE

SANTA ANA 1641 W. Sunflower Ave. ANAHEIM 1895 South Harbor Blvd. Mortons.com

| 714.444.4834

| 714.621.0101

THE WINERY Chef/partner Yvon Goetz offers seafood, wild game, USDA Prime steaks plus cigar patios and extensive wine cellars. Tustin: L (M-F), D (nightly); Newport: D (nightly), Br (Su). The District, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600; 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.999.6622 $$$ Map D4, N13

CHINESE DIN TAI FUNG Taiwanese icon known for xiao long bao—Shanghai-style soup dumplings, meticulously folded in a dedicated room for viewing—is one of the county’s best restaurants. The New York Times included the original in its world’s top 10. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.549.3388 $$ Map J13 J. ZHOU ORIENTAL CUISINE Flamboyant Cantonese destination specializes in dim sum and special-occasion fare such as lobster served 16 ways and several varieties of abalone. L, D (daily). The District, 2601 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.8833 $$$ Map D4

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DINING

MARCHÉ MODERNE Gorgeous new location. Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia elevate the bistro experience to delicious heights. Caviars, butter tasting, lamb couscous. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7862 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map M17 MOULIN Bistro-epicerie-cafés: baguette sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, wine and beer amid French logo decor. Laguna: B, L, D (daily). Newport: B, L (daily); dinner (M-Sa). 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920; 248 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6990 $$ Map K13 and H15

Arc Pizza House, adjoining Arc in Costa Mesa, p. 34

MEIZHOU DONGPO Upscale Sichuan eatery known for bold and fiery cuisine. Showstoppers include Meizhou duck, sweet-and-sour tilapia and squid-ink shumei; popular dim-sum brunch. L, D (daily). Culver Plaza, 15363 Culver Drive, Irvine, 949.433.5686 $$$ Map J14 TWENTY EIGHT Modern Chinese in stylish digs. Star of chef Jay Lacuesta’s show is Kurobuta “char siu” pork shoulder. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.852.2828 $$ Map K14

CONTINENTAL FIVE CROWNS Lawry’s spot housed in English inn replica known for prime rib recently marked its 50th anniversary with a new bar. New chef, impressive new menu; off-menu Ugly Gentleman cocktail. Superb SideDoor Gastropub is adjacent. D (nightly). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331 $$$ Map M16 THE HOBBIT Transporting dinners at homey hacienda revered for special occasions. Multicourse prix-fixe affair: cocktails upstairs, elaborate appetizers in the wine cellar, new Continental classics in elegant dining rooms. Menu changes weekly. Reservations essential. D (W-Su). 2932 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.1972 $$$$ Map J11 ORANGE HILL Hilltop hideaway with endless city-light views; traditional and updated fare includes seafood, prime rib, lobster. The O Bar got a recent redesign. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.2910 $$ Map C5 21 OCEANFRONT Romantic restaurant with sunset views, cozy bars, servers in black tie. Abalone, crab legs, steaks and osso buco. NEW CHEF: Live entertainment in the lounge. D (nightly). 2100 W. Oceanfront (Newport Pier), Newport Beach, 949.673.2100 $$$ Map N13

ECLECTIC EATS KITCHEN & BAR Regional specialties, winning happy hour, circular bar centerpiece. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780 $$ Map D4 MIX Hilton Anaheim executive chef Frederic Castan oversees the globally influenced menu. Impressive chef’s table in the kitchen. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10

PASCAL Venerated chef Pascal Olhats offers Pascal Experience menu—plus bakery and epicerie items, sandwiches, and picnics to go. B, L (M-Sa); D (M-F). 31451 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.488.0031 $$ Map I17

INTERNATIONAL DARYA Elegant destination for classic Persian dishes marks 30 years. Kebabs a specialty; rack of lamb; vegetarian options. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.557.6600 $$$ Map J13 MIX MIX KITCHEN + BAR Considered by many the best new restaurant of 2016. Superb chef Ross Pangilinan presents Philippine fusion fare and superior cocktails. Oui Chef prix-fixe dinners—with complimentary wine pairings on Wednesdays. D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.836.5158 $$$ Map H13 MOZAMBIQUE African fortress gone hip and stylish offers Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine such as piri piri prawns. Veranda rooftop dining. Complimentary ride within 3 miles—in really nice vehicles. L, D (daily). 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777 $$ Map I16 ROYAL KHYBER Anchor at South Coast Plaza Village marks 35 years. Warm eggplant salad; lobster masala; signature Khyber’s Nectar lamb shanks. L (Su-Th), D (daily), Br (F, Su). South Coast Plaza Village, 1621 Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.436.1010 $$$ Map J13

ITALIAN ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE Reopens presently. Italian steakhouse in a 1909 manor—one of North County’s finest restaurants, known for elaborately presented refined cuisine—was destroyed by fire. Owner Bruno Serato’s continued efforts to feed hungry children are recounted in a new book, The Power of Pasta. D (nightly). 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.1381 $$$ Map I10 ANDREA Elegant but unstuffy dining room serves Superb northern Italian cuisine, looks out onto spectacular elysian and ocean vistas. Pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L (W-Su), D (nightly). Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 844.445.2183 $$$$ Map L17 ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA Beautiful second location in Irvine adds brunch. L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). Los Olivos Marketplace, 8573 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.536.5200; Monarch Bay Plaza, 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.429.1102 $$ Map D5, J16

BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN Contemporary spot with memorable dishes such as hamachi with sweet-and-sour shallots, wild-boar-sausage bucatini, caramel-chocolate budino and house-made limoncello liqueur. D (nightly). 210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000 $$$ Map A3 CUCINA ENOTECA Cal-Ital plus wine shop, fun decor. Filled jars, lobster gnocchi neri, guanciale bucatini. Newport: L (M-Sa), D (nightly, Br (Su). Irvine: L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.1416; Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222 $$ Map L15, D5 ECCO Hip spots serve up sophisticated wood-fired pizzas, with guanciale-pear being a fave; ricotta gnocchi with grilled prawns. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.444.ECCO; 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, eccopizza.com $$ Map J13, H10 IL BARONE RISTORANTE Acclaimed chef Franco Barone and wife Donatella present sophisticated fare; relocating soon. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 4251 Martingale Way, Newport Beach, 949.955.2755 $$ Map K14 IL DOLCE PIZZERIA Modest storefront belies superior artisanal Neapolitan pizzas and pastas. L, D (TuSu). 1902 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.200.9107 $$ Map K12 IL GARAGE Beguiling spot from David Slay, in a garage hidden behind his lauded Park Ave, amid a 1924 tractor and red-checkered tablecloths; it overlooks the garden that inspires and supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 NORTH ITALIA High-decibel space with soaring ceiling, marble-topped bar and citrus-studded patio. Truffle garlic bread, squid-ink mafaldine, salted caramel budino. L (M-F), D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 2957 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.629.7060 $$ Map K14 PIROZZI Convivial spot offers olive fritte, limoncelloinfused taglierini and heart-shaped Nutella pizza for two. Excellent pizzas. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 2929 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.675.2932 $$$ Map M16 PIZZERIA MOZZA From culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich. Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel coppetta with marshmallow sauce. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.945.1126 $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Refined Neapolitan fare, walking distance of performing arts, amid soaring ceilings and frescoes. Guanciale pizza; squid-ink chitarra. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13 QUATTRO CAFFÉ Antonio Cagnolo of much-lauded Antonello Ristorante rejuvenates shoppers with stylish fare. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.754.0300 $$ Map J13 RISTORANTE RUMARI Charming family-owned spot is as traditional, and accommodating, as it gets. Grilled shrimp spiedino, Sicilian-style swordfish. D (nightly). 1826 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.0400 $$ Map I16 SAPORI RISTORANTE Highly regarded spot near Balboa Island. Penne otero, polenta e porcini; adjacent pizzeria. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1080 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.4220 $$$ Map N14

SAPPHIRE LAGUNA Chef Azmin Ghahreman offers inspired, and globally inspired, dishes at stylish spot with popular patio, excellent cocktails and gourmet pantry for takeout. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15

ANTONELLO RISTORANTE Top-notch northern Italian restaurant. Osso buco with risotto milanese; the ricotta gnocchi; Non Plus Ultra 50-ounce skirt steak. Many dishes finished tableside. Enoteca Lounge and bar menu. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.751.7153 $$$ Map J13

VITALY Bolognese owners offer croissants, piadine and tigelle sandwiches, espresso, beer, wine, gelato and gelato flights in tiny cones. B, L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.662.5500 $$ Map J13

TRU GRITS Executive chef Theresa Lin Cheng offers modern American cuisine with a variety of Asian influences at Hotel Ménage. B, L, D (daily). 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.758.0900 $$ Map J11

CASA BARILLA New. Italy’s famed family of pasta makers offer casual pizza, panini and pasta menu throughout the day. B, L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa 657.205.1025 $$ Map J13

BLUEFIN Master sushi chef Takashi Abe presents exquisite sushi and hot entrées. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove

JAPANESE

COURTESY ARC PIZZA HOUSE

FRENCH

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voted best seafood orange county i

DINING Shopping Center, 7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.7373 $$$ Map M17 HAMAMORI Sparkling environment with undulating curves overlooks Bear Street. Rice-cracker-coated jumbo asparagus with yuzu sea salt; tamari-marinated black cod. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.850.0880 $$$ Map J13 KITIKATA RAMEN BAN NAI 57 restaurants in Japan; this is its first in the United States. We favor the greenchili shio ramen with tender chashu pork, nappa, garlic and Asian chives. L, D (daily). 891 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.2947 $$ Map J12 NOBU The world’s most recognized Japanese restaurant has an outpost at Lido Marina Village that’s stunning inside and out. Patio overlooking canal has first-ever bar serving cocktails created by Nobu bartenders around the country. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 3450 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, 949.429.4440 $$$$ Map N13

newport beach harbor

OAK AND COAL New spot devoted to yakitori; order by the skewer. The menu focuses on all manner of chicken including hearts and gizzards. Elevated ingredients such as wagyu beef tongue dot the menu. D (nightly). 333 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.287.6150 $$$ Map K12

Classic and Contemporary Sustainable Seafood Lunch · Dinner · Brunch · Happy Hour · Kids Livewell Menu Full Bar · Patio · Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking

OOTORO SUSHI Every bite surprises at this impressive omakase-centric spot; rare fish, a toro trio, A5+ Kobe beef plus elaborate cooked dishes. Fine-dining anchor for Trade food hall. L, D (Tu-Sa). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.222.0688 $$$ Map K13

newport beach · redondo beach · catalina island · phoenix coronado · temecula · carlsbad · santa barbara | bluewatergrill.com

RAMEN YAMADAYA New owners. Think of the broth as liquid pork. The spicy tonkotsu comes with chashu, bamboo shoots, green onions and egg. L, D (daily). 1175 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.556.0091 $ Map J12 SUSHI ROKU Gorgeous spot from Cal-Japanese sushi pioneer. Fluke kumquat sashimi, premium tofu three ways, blue-crab tartare, Prime ribeye steak Japonais, spectacular zen s’mores dessert, new Darjeeling Express cocktail. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.3622 $$ Map L15

MEDITERRANEAN AVEO TABLE + BAR Coastal bounty, cool chandeliers and ocean views. Eggs al forno, porchetta sandwich, Spanish paella for two. “Farm-to-Bar” cocktails beneath vaulted ceiling. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3915 $$$ Map J17 CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR The Uva outdoor pavilion features tapas and 40 California wines by the glass; upstairs is Catal for fine dining. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.774.4442 $$$ Map I10 FIG & OLIVE Ode to olive oil presents sophisticated fare from crostini and crudo starters to crème brûlée cheesecake in a stunning olive tree-studded setting. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.877.3005 $$$ Map L15 MESA Chef Niki Starr Weyler oversees stylish spot. Hip scene, cool cuisine, retractable glass roof, unisex restrooms. D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 $$ Map J13 MEZZET Small plates from Spain, Morocco, Lebanon, Greece and South of France in airy bar and dining room. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, Crate & Barrel Wing, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.3365 $$ Map J13 ZOV’S Venerated chef Zov Karamardian’s bistro marks 30 years; Louie Jocson is executive chef. Bakery-café in Tustin. L, D (M-Sa). Enderle Center, 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin, 714.838.8855; 1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.280.9687; 3915 Portola Parkway, Irvine, 714.734.9687; 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast, 949.760.9687 $$$ Map C5, I11, C4, L17

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DINING MEXICAN/LATIN ANEPALCO Chef Daniel Godinez applies French technique to traditional Mexican ingredients, with sophisticated, artfully presented results. Innovative cocktails. Br (Tu-Su), D (Tu-Sa). 3737 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.456.9642 $$ Map B4 CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN Chicken flautas, seafood caldo, open-face guajillo-brasied short-rib enchilada, superb flan amid, in Irvine, Thomas Schoos design. Irvine: L, D (daily). Brea: L, D (M-Sa); Br (Su). 13126 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.408.7819; 110 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1040 $$ Map C5, A3 EL ADOBE State historical landmark serving traditional Mexican fare is housed in a 1797 adobe and 1812 jail. L, D (daily). 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1163 $$ Map I17 EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE New. Acclaimed Anepalco chef Danny Godinez puts his spin on sharedplate specialties from each of Mexico’s states in a hip and comfortable space. Cesar Cerrudo adds top-notch mezcal cocktails. L, D (Tu-Sa); Br (Su). 301 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 714.338.2446 $$ Map H13 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Old Towne daytrippers and tequila connoisseurs duck into this rustically stylish haven for spirited takes on regional Mexican fare far beyond tacos and burritos. L, D (daily). 141 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3038 $$ Map C4 HABANA Hip Nuevo Latino destination opens a palatial second location that’s triple the size and adds breakfast, teatime and a bakery. Ropa vieja; tamale pie. Great patios and brunch. Costa Mesa: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Irvine: B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.556.0176; Irvine Spectrum Center, 708 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.450.1004 $$ Map J13, D5 LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with superb coastal views. Snapper Veracruzana, Yucatán chicken. Popular patio has its own Seaside Menu. New Cantina. B (M-Sa); L, D (daily); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15 PORTO’S BAKERY & CAFE There’s always a line at this family-owned Cuban spot; the menu is comprehensive but the focus is on sandwiches. B, L, D (daily). 7640 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.367.2030 $$ Map B2 PUEBLO Cozy, upbeat spot offers tapas—grilled Spanish octopus, pimentón potato, mojo verde—and cheese and charcuterie boards indoors and on winning patio. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775 $$ Map D5 PUESTO Eye-popping new location at Park Place. Tacos on blue-corn tortillas such as zucchini and cactus with crispy melted cheese; nogada guacamole with pomegranate arils, mango, chile de arbol and candied walnuts; agave spirits beyond tequila and mezcal. L, D (daily). 8577 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.608.9990; 3311 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.608.7272 $$ Map J12, J14 RAYA Sophisticated fare from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree; roasted halibut with truffled boniato. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16 RED O Sexy design with Moroccan accents, menu by Mexican cuisine guru Rick Bayless. Ceviches, guacamole tasting, lamb chops mole negro. Extensive tequila list. L, D (daily). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0300 $$$ Map L15 SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooks harbor canals, offers vibrant Baja-inspired dishes. Hot & Raw tropical ceviche, taco Vampiro, Kobe skirt steak. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 251 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.675.9800 $$ Map M14

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DINING SOLITA Sol Cocina spinoff offers tacos (e.g., chorizo, bacon and sweet potatoes; chili tofu; wood-grilled carne asada) and margaritas. Start with queso al forno. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Bella Terra, 7631 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.894.2792 $$ Map C2  TACO MARÍA Carlos Salgado serves up meticulous and always fascinating “Chicano cuisine” at OC Mix. Two-time semifinalist for the James Beard Award for best chef in the West. Memorable, distinctive tacos at lunch; dinner is four-course prix-fixe that changes weekly. L, D (Tu-Sa); Br (Su). South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.538.8444 $$$ Map J12 TAPAS Restaurant and nightclub offering traditional Spanish cuisine, live music, flamenco performances, salsa dancing and lessons relocates to Kaleidoscope. D (Tu-Su). 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 221, Mission Viejo, 949.367.0373 $$$ Map E6 VACA Spanish spot serving tapas, paellas, house-made charcuterie, 50-day aged steaks and superb cocktails (e.g., Vaca Tonic, house-made vermouth) from Amar Santana, a Bravo Top Chef runner-up, and partner Ahmed Labbate. L (M-F), D (W-M). 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.463.6060 $$$ Map J13

SEAFOOD BLUEWATER GRILL Fresh selection—e.g., Australian barramundi, farm-raised Mississippi catfish—changes daily. L, D (daily). 630 Lido Park Drive, Newport Beach, 949.675.FISH $$ Map N13 THE CANNERY The harbor-view spot is historic—a cannery in 1921, a fine seafood restaurant for 40 years, now better than ever. Lobster carbonara; loup de mer; Balboa sundae. Upstairs Jellyfish Lounge features sushi. Great happy hour. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3010 Lafayette Ave., Newport Beach, 949.566.0060 $$ Map N13 THE CATCH Sleek spot popular with sports fans as well as concertgoers—it’s near Angel Stadium and Honda Center. 5-pound OMG burger feeds 10; hot chocolate sundae flamed tableside. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2100 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.935.0101 $$ Map I1 CHART HOUSE The architecture alone—three circular pods atop a bluff overlooking the harbor—makes any visit a special occasion. Lobster bisque; crispy wok-fried whole fish; hot lava chocolate cake with Godiva liqueur; Port of Manhattan cocktail. D (nightly). 34442 Street of the Green Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.1183 $$$ Map J16 DUKE’S Hawaiian-inspired seafood and Prime steaks amid beach-house ambiance adjacent to Huntington Beach Pier. Barefoot Bar on the sand, endless ocean views. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 317 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.6446 $$ Map N9 HARBOR GRILL Excellent mesquite-grilled seafood, pastas, gumbos, bouillabaisse at Dana Point Harbor; consider the rosebud martini and the sustainably farmed oysters. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 34499 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.240.1416 $$$ Map J16

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MARKET BROILER Mix ’n’ match fresh fish ‘n’ sauce. Mesquite-grilled seafood and steaks, sushi, on-site fish market. L, D (daily). The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.FISH; 20111 Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach, 714.431.7796 $$ Map J11, L1 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB Bluff-top, ocean-view spot. Seafood in majestic proportions, seafood tower and notto-be-missed warm butter cake. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 8112 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.376.6990 $$$$ Map M17 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Citified fish house offers simply prepared fresh seafood. Old-school cocktails, great happy hour. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2000 S. Main St., Irvine, 949.756.0505; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.535.9000 $$$ Map J14, I10

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DINING ROY’S Hawaiian fusion fare amid stylish tropical decor. Newport: L, D (daily). Anaheim: L (M-F), D (nightly). Fashion Island, 453 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.7697; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.7697 $$$ Map L15, I1 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY Excellent seafood and steaks, oyster bar and award-winning brews. L (M-Sa), D nightly); Br (Su). New Taps Brewery and Barrel Room in Tustin has a food truck. 101 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.257.0101; the Market Place, 13390 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.619.0404; Brewery, 15501 Red Hill Ave., Tustin $$$ Map A3, C5, C4 WATER GRILL Grande dame of upscale seafood destinations in downtown L.A. opens in jaw-dropping space opposite South Coast Plaza. Oyster bar, wild Barents Sea red king crab, 1-pound Prime rib-eye and indulgent desserts. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 949.208.7060 $$$ Map M13 WATERLINE “Water to table” fresh local seafood experience overlooking the harbor includes crab eggs Benedict at breakfast, halibut BLT at lunch and scallops “Peas & Carrots” at dinner. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Su (Br). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4390 $$$ Map M13 WOODY’S WHARF Seafood and steaks—and superlative clam chowder—in unpretentious digs since 1965. Cary Grant and Mickey Mantle were guests. Chuck Norris once owned it; doormen included Jean-Claude Van Damme! L (M-Sa), D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.0474 $$ Map N13 WATERMAN’S HARBOR Locally caught seafood amid harbor views on two levels. New England clam chowder, fresh catch en papillote or pan roast, don’t-miss banana napoleon. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 34661 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.764.3474 $$ Map K17

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STEAK AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at Brazilian steakhouse are cooked over a fire pit. Gaucho-garbed waiters offer 16 sumptuous cuts, from picanha (a sirloin specialty) to coração (delicate chicken hearts). Elaborate hot and cold bar. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1830 Main St., Irvine, 949.222.9910 $$$ Map J13 BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS Akaushi Kobe-style Prime steaks and burgers, and seafood, amid whimsical industrial-chic decor and on the county’s largest oceanview patio. L, D (daily). 300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 202, Huntington Beach, 714.960.0096 $$$ Map N9 BOURBON STEAK New. Outpost of chef Michael Mina’s steakhouse replaces Stonehill Tavern at Monarch Beach Resort. Mina poaches premium cuts of beef in butter and finishes them on a wood-fired grill. “World Wide Wagyu” trio; lobster potpie; beignets with Macallan Scotch pot de crème. D (nightly). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3405 $$$ Map J17 THE CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant steakhouse offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Pan-fried calamari with cherry peppers, bone-in konacrusted dry-aged sirloin, ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J13 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue; prime everything. Classy feel extends to bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass. Prime rib on Sundays. Br (Su), D (nightly). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15 GRASSLANDS MEAT MARKET BBQ & CHURRASCO Sprawling new restaurant at Anaheim GardenWalk with sprawling name to match. Stars of the show: juicy slowsmoked brisket, famed Brazilian cut picanha and short rib—cut long! L (Su), D (nightly). 400 West Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.208.1133 $$$ Map I10

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DINING LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE Fine-dining destination in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall reopens as a steakhouse. Elaborately presented roasted baby beets; Snake River Farms wagyu-style New York; Valrhona chocolate beggar’s purse. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky spot offers largerthan-life portions and white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; off-menu crab gnocchi; and, oooh, warm butter cake. Bar offers generous cocktails, live music. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405 $$$$ Map J13 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Classy bastions of beef: service-plus, colossal portions. Show-and-tell menu recitation. Anaheim: D (nightly); Santa Ana: L (M-F), D (nightly). 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.621.0101; South Coast Plaza Village, 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.444.4834 $$$$ Map I10, J13

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RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Bone-in cowboy rib-eye; caramelized banana cream pie. Soaring ceilings, modern sculpture, colorful glass at Anaheim location. Anaheim: D (nightly); Irvine: L (F), D (daily). 2041 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.750.5466; 2961 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.252.8848 $$$$ Map I10, K14 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s upscale spot; several different dining environments in historic cottage. Pacific diver scallops, scarlet beet ravioli, Lord Stanley Cut (bone-in rib-eye) Wagyu steak for two, monkey bread dessert. D (nightly). 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881 $$$ Map I16

THAI ROYAL THAI CUISINE Casually elegant family-owned spots are coastal fixtures. Newport: L, D (daily). Laguna: D (nightly). 4001 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.645.8424; 1750 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8424 $$ Map N13, I16 SUPATRA’S THAI BISTRO Cozy gem presents traditional cuisine and décor. Soups are a specialty; most seafood dishes are spicy; soju cocktails. L, D (Tu-Su). 21560 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.693.2888 $$ Map A5

Taste of Mexico

THAI NAKORN Long considered one of Orange County’s best Thai spots. Fried fish with mango salad, clam in chili paste and basil. L, D (daily). 12532 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, 714.583.8938 $$ Map I8, K10

VEGAN AU LAC Amazing plant-based “shrimp” (salt-andpepper shrimp), “chicken” (kung pao chicken) and “beef” (beef watercress). L, D (Tu-Su). 16563 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 714.418.0658 $$ Map C3 GRATITUDE Chic and airy spot presents elaborate dishes with affirming names such as “Welcoming.” Don’t-miss the tostada or superb cocktails. B, L, D (daily). Westcliff Plaza, 1617 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.386.8103 $$$ Map L14 HEALTHY JUNK Good eats. Eat happy. Reimagined plant-based snack junk and comfort foods includes burgers and pizzas. L, D (daily). 201 W. Center Street Promenade, Unit B, Anaheim, 714.772.5865 $$ Map H10

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SEABIRDS KITCHEN Plant-based purple taquitos, artichoke drumsticks (they look like fried chicken!), chaffle (churro waffle). L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.549.2584 $$ Map J13

VIETNAMESE ANQI Innovative small plates in sexy setting with backlit bar and glass catwalk over running stream. Amazing garlic noodles; secret-recipe garlic crab on Tuesdays. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13

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DINING BREAK OF DAWN Iconic off-the-beaten-path spot in a strip mall is known for generous portions of chef Dee Nguyen’s superb Vietnamese-inflected American breakfast fare. Cauliflower veloute, duck-fat omelet, beef brisket. B, L (W-Su). 24291 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, 949.587.9418 $$ Map G17 BRODARD CHATEAU Elegant two-story venue serves regional dishes of Hanoi, Hue and Saigon. Less expensive sibling Brodard Restaurant is new in Fountain Valley. Chateau L, D (daily); restaurant B, L, D (daily). 9100 Trask Ave., Garden Grove, 714.899.8273; 16105 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 657.247.4401 $$$ Map K8, C3 DESTINATION SEAFOOD HOUSE Cheery new nautically themed spot. Salmon-belly spring rolls, quail with sticky rice, crispy-skin whole catfish. One side is devoted to superb hand-rolled ice cream. L, D (F-W). 15606 Brookhurst St., Westminster, 714.884.4692 $$ Map C3

OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER!

LSXO Intimate, hidden, extraordinary restaurant-withina-restaurant at Bluegold. Fifty Saigon-inspired dishes, five cocktails. Practically intoxicating décor. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0083 $$ Map N9

KIDS MENU AVAILABLE

FOOD HALLS ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE Historic Sunkist citrus hub hosts two dozen foodie vendors including Adya for Cal-Indian, Urbana for Mexican, Rolling Boil for hot pots, Georgia’s for Southern, Hammer Workshop & Bar for cocktails, Black Sheep for distinctive grilled cheese sandwiches and Popbar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.635.1350 $$ Map H10 4TH STREET MARKET Fifteen foodie tenants include Alta Baja Market, Falasophy, Jinny’s Pizzeria, Electric City Butcher, Dos Chinos, Stockyard Sandwich, Front Porch Pops, Red Envelope, Portola Coffee Lab and Recess Libations for cocktails on tap. L, D (daily). 201 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.486.0700 $$ Map H13 LOT 579 Tenant list includes American Dream for burgers and beer, Burnt Crumbs for artisanal sandwiches, Bear Flag Fish Co. for poke, and PopBar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, gopacificcity.com $$ Map N9 MCFADDEN PUBLIC MARKET Fun food hall/vintagearcade bar from Leonard Chan (Hatch, Shuck). Rooster Republic fried chicken, En Tu Boca fusion tacos, Milk Man ice cream and two bars. L, D (daily). 515 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 657.232.3338 $ Map H13 TRADE FOOD HALL Local entrepreneurs launch new concepts near John Wayne Airport anchored by Ootoro Sushi (see Japanese). Megadon Japanese-Hawaiian fusion, Two Birds chicken, Butterleaf vegetarian, Sweet Combforts desserts. B, L, D (daily). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, tradefoodhall.com $ Map J14 UNION MARKET MISSION VIEJO Dining on upper level of entertainment center includes Oyu Shabu for shabu-shabu, Hummus Bowl, Dry Society for craft cocktails and new Tapas for Spanish cuisine and flamenco shows. L, D (daily). Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, unionmarketmissionviejo.com $$ Map E6

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UNION MARKET TUSTIN Diverse tenants include Hatch for sliders and Tiki drinks, Kettlebar Steam Cooking for pan roasts, the Kroft for sandwiches and poutine. Popular central bar. L, D (daily). The District, 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, unionmarkettustin.com $$ Map D4

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QUICK BITES THE CUT New. Cut-above creative burgers: Grand Cut with braised pork, bacon jam, havarti and Comte fondue; Colombian with smoked mozzarella, chimichurri and roasted bananas. Plus prosciutto-chorizo croquettes, corn-cookie ice cream sandwich. L, D (daily). 3831 Alton Parkway, Suite C, Irvine, 949.333.3434 $$ Map D4

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DINING DORY DELI Deli food with a contemporary spin and a beachside setting. Breakfast burritos; steak-and-cheese Rocky Balboa sandwich; fish & chips use Dory Fleet’s catch of the day. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2108 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach, 949.220.7886 $ Map N13 THE HALAL GUYS First West Coast outpost of famed New York street cart; habit-forming gyros, chicken and falafel in cheery fast-casual setting. Hugely popular. L, D (daily). 3033 Bristol St., Suite E, Costa Mesa, 714.850.1080 $ Map J13 KRAVE KOBE BURGER GRILL Kolossal Kobe is two wagyu patties with Niman Ranch add-ons. Innovative dipping sauces for fries. L, D (daily). 21133 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.719.7770 $$ Map J11 L.A. BRISKET New. Brisket, pulled pork and chicken on sandwiches, in BBQ bowls or by the pound, and ribs. L, D (Tu-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, $ 657.247.5222 Map J13 LEMONADE Huge array of distinctive salads, sandwiches and stews in cafeteria setting. L, D (daily). 2967 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1560; Fashion Island, 987 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.7525; Pacific City, 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.604.1072 $ Map J14, L15, N9 MCDONALD’S By the numbers it’s America’s favorite hamburger restaurant; this one’s near the Disney theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.491.0563, 70 other county locations. $ Map I10 PAPER LANTERN New. Smart, cheery dumpling house from team behind Hello Kitty Café, Capital Seafood opens at Asian eats mecca Diamond Jamboree Plaza. Xiao long bao, spicy noodles and wontons. L, D (daily). 2730 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949.748.8064, $ Map J14 PORTILLO’S Chicago hot-dog mecca offers amazing value near Knott’s Berry Farm. The dogs are just one reason it has so many fans. L, D (daily). 8390 La Palma Ave., Buena Park, 714.220.6400 $ Map G8 PROVISIONS MARKET Artisan market/artisan specializes in innovative sandwiches; start with beet-habanero pickled eggs. 500 craft beers, 30 on tap. L, D (daily). 143 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.997.2337 $$ Map C4 SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Creative sandwiches— Gangnam Korean meatball, El Cubano—and tasty salads. B, L, D (daily). 414 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.594.3899; 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001 $ Map N9, N13 TACKLE BOX Top Chef alumnus Brian Huskey’s unlikely “local grub shack” at the sand’s edge on Corona del Mar State Beach. B, L (Tu-Su). 3029 E. Shore Ave., Corona del Mar, 949.723.0502 $$ Map M16 TACO MESA TORTILLERÍA ORGÁNICA & CAFÉ Thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented Mexican fare; vegetarian/vegan options. B, L, D (daily). 3533 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.633.3922 $$ Map B5 UMAMI BURGER Much-lauded burgers; off-menu “tater tots.” L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center. 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1830; 338 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.991.8626; The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.957.8626 $ Map G15, I10, J13

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OCDINING ROYAL THAI CUISINE Exquisite Thai dining in casually elegant surroundings is offered at this family-owned establishment, which has presented the tranquility of Thai cuisine and culture for more than 40 years. Dishes such as honey duck and enormous Lady Thai prawns from the Chao Praya River reflect the beguiling flavors of Thailand. The proprietors have served Thailand’s Royal Family and they roll out the red carpet for yours. The Sunset Dinner—four courses for $15.95—is offered from 5 to 7 pm; full-service bar. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su).

4001 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach 949.645.8424 • royalthaicuisine.com

ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Andrei’s, the Nature Conservancy’s “favorite green restaurant,” thinks responsibly in its sourcing and commitment to sustainability. Enjoy panko-crusted portobello mushroom fries, sea bass provencale or organic beet salad in the contemporary dining room or on the citrus-and-herb garden terrace. Andrei’s is known for craft cocktails such as their oak barrel-aged Manhattan. Silver Oak Saturdays offer the vineyard’s bottles at half price including Alexander Valley Cabernet and Napa Valley Cabernet. New Saturday brunch 11-2:30 pm. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. 3-6:30 pm, Sat. 5-6:30 pm. Events and private dining available. Br (Sa), L (M-F), D (M-Sa).

2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 • andreisrestaurant.com

MIX RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE Savor globally inspired flavors and the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Frederic Castan Mix Restaurant and Lounge supports local farms and in-season items through its thoughtful approach and menu treatment. Using varied techniques, the Hilton Anaheim culinary team maintains the integrity of its ingredients through a refined, worldly execution that will leave any palate satisfied. It is great for a quick bite during lunch hour and a cozy spot in which to “Mix” and mingle at happy hour. Complimentary valet parking. Mention WHERE OC to your server and receive 20% off your meal. (Offer excludes alcoholic beverages.) B, L, D (daily).

Hilton Anaheim Hotel, 777 Convention Way, Anaheim 714.740.4412 • hiltonanaheimhotel.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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OCDINING JT SCHMID’S JT Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery, Orange County’s preferred brewhouse, steakhouse and clubhouse, has two locations, in Anaheim opposite the Honda Center and in Tustin at The District. Enjoy handcrafted microbrews and contemporary California cuisine including Angus steaks, burgers, salads, sandwiches, wood-fired pizza, pastas and seafood. Numerous widescreen televisions mean you’ll never miss the big game. Banquet and meeting facilities for 20 to 250 people. Enjoy the new outdoor patio in Anaheim or the full bar and premium cigars at both locations. Happy hour Monday-Friday. L, D (daily).

2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim • 714.634.9200 2415 Park Ave., Tustin • 714.258.0333 jtschmids.com

ZOV’S Zov’s, recipient of the James Beard award and the 2016 Golden Foodies Chef of the Year award, was established in 1987 by Chef Karamardian and since has earned the respect of local, regional and national food critics. Zov’s offers American favorites with a Mediterranean influence. Signature dishes include tahini chicken tacos and nachos, kebab two ways, burgers, “pitza” pies, and sumac-dusted sea bass with shaved Brussels sprouts and caper-citrus sauce. Dining at Zov’s-in Anaheim, Newport Coast, Irvine or Tustin-is a must-do when visiting Orange County. Happy hour daily 3-6 pm; banquet and meeting facilities with full-service catering for groups of 10 or more. 1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim • 714.280.9687 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast • 949.760.9687 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin • 714.838.8855 zovs.com

21 OCEANFRONT Looking out onto the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island, 21 Oceanfront offers breathtaking sunset views from three beautifully appointed dining rooms. 21 Oceanfront is known for its baseball-cut swordfish, tender California red abalone, Alaskan king crab legs, fresh cuts of beef and its extensive wine list. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two as well as for corporate gatherings, the local favorite has been consistently recognized as one of O.C.’s best and most romantic restaurants. Complimentary transportation for groups of eight or more. Live entertainment and happy hour in the Oceanfront Bar and Lounge. D (nightly).

2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach 949.673.2100 • 21oceanfront.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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SHARED PASSION FOR THE OCEAN and serving Surf City USA

In the Pierside Pavilion

300 Pacific Coast Highway hsssurf.com | 714 . 8 4 1. 4 0 0 0

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On the Beach at the HB Pier

317 Pacific Coast Highway dukeshuntington.com | 7 1 4 .37 4 .6 4 4 6

1/11/18 4:15 PM 1/24/18 3:36 PM

RESTAURANTS CITY INDEX OUR SUPERGUIDE BY AREA, WITH CROSS REFERENCE TO LISTINGS BY CUISINE

ANAHEIM

MORTON’S (Steak).........................................................42

EATS KITCHEN (Eclectic).............................................38

ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE (Food Hall)..........44

OAK & COAL (Japanese)..............................................39

HABANA (Latin)................................................................40

THE ROYAL HEN (American).....................................36

ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE (Italian)......................38

OLD VINE CAFE (American)......................................36

LEMONADE (Quick Bites).....................................45

ROY’S (Hawaiian)...............................................................42

CATAL / UVA BAR (Mediterranean).........................39

PIZZERIA ORTICA (Italian).........................................38

MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).............41

RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................36

THE CATCH (Seafood)....................................................41

PUEBLO (Spanish).............................................................40

MEIZHOU DONGPO (Chinese)...............................38

SAPORI RISTORANTE (Italian)................................38

ECCO (Italian).....................................................................38

QUATTRO CAFFÉ (Italian).........................................38

NORTH ITALIA (Italian).................................................38

SESSIONS DELI (Sandwiches).....................................45

GRASSLANDS (Steak)...................................................42

RAMEN YAMADAYA (Japanese).............................39

OOTORO SUSHI (Japanese)........................................39

SOL COCINA (Mexican)................................................40

HEALTHY JUNK (Vegan).............................................43

ROYAL KHYBER (Indian).............................................38

PAPER LANTERN (Quick Bites)..................................45

SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)...............................................39

HOUSE OF BLUES (American)..................................34

SADDLE RANCH (American)......................................36

PUESTO (Mexican)...........................................................40

21 OCEANFRONT (Continental)...............................38

J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . ...................................36

SEABIRDS KITCHEN (Vegan)...................................43

RUTH’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)...............................43

WATERLINE (Seafood)....................................................42

MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood).............41

SEASONS 52 (American)..............................................36

TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................................42

THE WINERY (California)..............................................37

MCDONALD’S (Quick Bites)................................45

SOCIAL (American)...........................................................36

TRADE FOOD HALL (Food Hall)..............................44

WOODY’S WHARF (Seafood)...................................42

MIX (Eclectic).......................................................................38

TACO MARÍA (Mexican)...............................................41

TWENTY EIGHT (Chinese)...........................................38

MORTON’S (Steak).........................................................43

UMAMI BURGER (American).....................................45

TWO LEFT FORKS (California)..................................37

NEWPORT COAST

NAPA ROSE (California)................................................36

VACA (Spanish)...................................................................41

UMAMI BURGER (Quick Bites)..................................45

RAINFOREST CAFE (Themed)..................................36

VITALY (Italian)...................................................................38

ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

RALPH BRENNAN’S (American)..............................36

WATER GRILL (Seafood)...............................................42

THE RANCH (American)................................................36

THE BEACHCOMBER (American)...........................34 BLUEFIN (Japanese).........................................................38 KRAVE KOBE BURGER (American).......................45

DANA POINT

BREAK OF DAWN (Vietnamese Fusion).................44

MARCHÉ MODERNE (French).................................38

ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian)..............................38

BROADWAY (American)................................................34

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood)...................41

AVEO TABLE + BAR (Mediterranean)......................39

DRIFTWOOD (American)..............................................34

ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

BOURBON STEAK (Steak).........................................42

HARVEST (California).......................................................36

ORANGE

CHART HOUSE (Seafood)............................................41

HENDRIX (American).......................................................34

ANEPALCO’S (Mexican-French)..................................40

HARBOR GRILL (Seafood)...........................................41

K’YA BISTRO BAR (California)...................................36

BREA

GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican)..........40

RAYA (Latin Fusion)............................................................40

LAS BRISAS (Mexican)...................................................40

HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew Pub)............................36

BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN (Italian).................38

TWO LEFT FORKS (California)..................................37

MOZAMBIQUE (South African)..................................38

THE HOBBIT (Continental)............................................38

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN (Mexican).............40

WATERMAN’S HARBOR (Seafood).......................42

MOULIN (French)..............................................................38

MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................41

CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................34

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

OAK LAGUNA BEACH (California)........................36

ORANGE HILL (Continental)........................................38

RISTORANTE RUMARI (Italian)..............................38

PROVISIONS MARKET (Quick Bites).....................45

ROYAL HAWAIIAN (American).................................36

SADDLE RANCH (American)......................................36

ROYAL THAI (Thai).........................................................43

TACO MESA TORTILLERÍA (Mexican).................45

RUTH’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)...............................43 TRU GRITS (Eclectic).......................................................38 UMAMI BURGER (Quick Bites)..................................45 ZOV’S ANAHEIM (Mediterranean)...........................39

TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................................42

AU LAC (Vegan).................................................................43

BUENA PARK

BRODARD RESTAURANT (Vietnamese)..............41

IL GARAGE (Italian)........................................................38

RECESS ROOM (American).........................................36

PARK AVE (American).....................................................36 PORTILLO’S (Quick Bites)..............................................45

CORONA DEL MAR FARMHOUSE (American).............................................34 FIVE CROWNS (Continental).......................................38 PIROZZI (Italian)................................................................38

SAPPHIRE (Eclectic).........................................................38

FULLERTON

WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN (American).......... 36

SELANNE STEAK TAVERN (Steak)......................43

CITIZEN KITCHEN (American)..................................34

SKYLOFT (American).......................................................36

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

WRECKLESS (American)................................................36

SPLASHES (California)....................................................37

GARDEN GROVE BRODARD CHATEAU (Vietnamese).......................44

STUDIO (California)..........................................................37 THREE SEVENTY COMMON (American)..............36

THAI NAKORN (Thai)...................................................43

MISSION VIEJO

SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)................................................36

HUNTINGTON BEACH

TAPAS (Spanish).................................................................41

TACKLE BOX (Quick Bites)...........................................45

BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS (Steak)..........................42

COSTA MESA/ SOUTH COAST METRO

PORTO’S BAKERY & CAFE (Cuban)....................40

ANQI (Vietnamese Fusion)...............................................43 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE (Italian)...................38 ARC (American)...................................................................34 THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)..................................42 CASA BARILLA (Italian)................................................38 CENTER 360 (American)...............................................34 CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................34 THE CRACK SHACK (American)..............................34 THE COUNTRY CLUB (American)...........................34 DARYA (Indian)..................................................................38 DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese)..............................................37 EAT CHOW (American)..................................................34 ECCO (Italian).....................................................................38 HABANA (Latin)................................................................40 THE HALAL GUYS (Quick Bites)...............................45 HAMAMORI (Japanese).................................................39

ANDREA (Italian)..............................................................38

LAGUNA BEACH

ROY’S (Hawaiian)...............................................................42

ROYAL THAI (Thai).........................................................43

BAD TO THE BONE (American)..............................34 EL ADOBE (Mexican)......................................................40 PASCAL (French)................................................................38 RAMOS HOUSE CAFE (American).........................36

SANTA ANA BENJIES DELI (American)............................................34

UNION MARKET (Food Halls)....................................44

EAT CHOW (American)..................................................34

BLUEGOLD (American)..................................................36

NEWPORT BEACH

CLAIM JUMPER (American)........................................34

THE CURE (Cal-Asian)....................................................36

A RESTAURANT (American).......................................34

DUKE’S (Seafood)..............................................................41

BACK BAY BISTRO (American)................................34

LEMONADE (Quick Bites).............................................45

BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood)...................................41

LOT 579 (Food Hall).........................................................44

THE CANNERY (Seafood)............................................41

LSXO (Vietnamese)............................................................44

CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................................38

MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................41

DORY DELI (Quick Bites)................................................45

PACIFIC HIDEAWAY (Californian)............................37

EAT CHOW (American)..................................................34

RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................36

SAN CLEMENTE

FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean)......................................39

THE CELLAR (American)...............................................34

SAINT MARC PUB-CAFÉ (American)...................36 SANDY’S BEACH SHACK (American).................36 SEALEGS WINE BAR (California)............................37 SEASALT WOODFIRE GRILL (California)...........37 SESSIONS DELI (Sandwiches)............................................. 45 SHADES (American).........................................................37 SOLITA (Mexican) .............................................................41 TANNER’S (American)....................................................37 WATERTABLE (American).............................................36

EL MERCADO (Mexican)..............................................40 4TH STREET MARKET (Food Halls)........................44 MCFADDEN PUBLIC MARKET (Food Hall).......44 MIX MIX KITCHEN + BAR (New Filipino)...........38 PLAYGROUND (American)..........................................36 TANGATA (California)......................................................37

FLEMING’S (Steak)..........................................................42

MRK PUBLIC (Gastropub).............................................36

GRATITUDE (Vegan).......................................................43

SEAL BEACH

GREAT MAPLE (American)..........................................34 HOPDODDY (American)...............................................34 IL BARONE RISTORANTE (Italian).......................38 JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR (American)...............34 LIDO BOTTLE WORKS (Californian)......................36 LEMONADE (Quick Bites).............................................45 LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ (American)............36

320 MAIN (American).....................................................36

TUSTIN HOPDODDY (American)...............................................34 J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) ...........................................36 J. ZHOU (Chinese)............................................................37 TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................................42 UNION MARKET (Food Halls)....................................44

IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian).....................................38

IRVINE

MOULIN (French)..............................................................38

KITIKATA RAMEN BAN NAI (Japanese).............39

AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Argentinian)..............42

NOBU (Japanese)...............................................................39

L.A. BRISKET (Quick Bites)...........................................45

ANDREI’S (American)......................................................34

OAK GRILL (California)....................................................36

LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE (Steak)......................43

ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian)..............................38

OLEA (California)................................................................36

WESTMINSTER

MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak).......................43

CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN (Mexican).............40

PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian).........................................38

DESTINATION SEAFOOD (Vietnamese).............44

MESA (Mediterranean-American)...................................39

CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................................38

PROVENANCE (California)..........................................37

YORBA LINDA

MEZZET (Mediterranean).................................................39

THE CUT (Quick Bites).....................................................44

RED O (Mexican)...............................................................40

SUPATRA’S THAI BISTRO (Thai)............................43

THE WINERY (California)..............................................37 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean).................................39

4:15 PM

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THE GUIDE

/ ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL EVENTS FESTIVAL OF WHALES Mar. 3-4, 10-11. 47th annual festival celebrates the California gray whale migration with a parade, concerts, crafts and marine-mammal cruises. Call for hours. Free. Dana Point Harbor, 949.496.1045, festivalofwhales.com Map J16

The Newport Beach Film Festival, April 26-May 3 at movie theaters including Edwards Big Newport 6, showcases more than 350 films from 50 countries. The festival hosted the U.S. premiere of Crash, which went on to win the Oscar for Best Picture, in 2005; other films to break out include Chef, Riding Giants, The Cove, 500 Days of Summer and The Illusionist. The festival has expanded to a lifestyle event featuring fashion and food, nightly parties, seminars and an awards ceremony. Gala screenings open and close the events; also scheduled are screenings focusing on the United Kingdom on April 27-28, specifically Ireland on April 29, other European countries April 30, the Pacific Rim on May 1 and Latino films May 2. Past attendees have included Kate Beckinsale, Adam Sandler, Will Ferrell and Gary Oldman. p. 50

INDEX Special Events............. 50 Shopping Destinations.54

OC RESTAURANT WEEK Mar. 4-10. More than 100 restaurants across Orange County offer discounted prixfixe menus. Various locations, ocrestaurantweek.com

Theater........................ 50 Golf Courses................ 55

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, LUZIA Through Mar. 25. Show transport audiences to imaginary land inspired by Mexico “where light quenches the spirit and rain soothes the soul.” The elaborate production features surrealistic visuals and breathtaking acrobatics. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 877.924.7783 Map K13

Attractions................... 52 Nightlife....................... 58

SWALLOWS DAY PARADE Mar. 24. Salutes storied annual bird visit from Argentina. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976, swallowsparade.com Map I17

Now Screening

GUIDELINES Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 61-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL Apr. 26-May 3. Event presents 350 films—features, shorts, documentaries and animation—as well as parties and sessions with directors and screenwriters. Check website for schedule and locations. newportbeachfilmfest.com Map K16 NEWPORT TO ENSENADA RACE Apr. 27-29. World’s largest yacht race; hundreds of boats compete. Best views from Corona del Mar coastal cliffs and Balboa Pier. newporttoensenada.com Map N12 DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL May 19-20. Blues, rock and R&B on three stages. Microbrew tastings and wine lounge. Sa 11 am-9:30 pm; Su 11 am-9 pm. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, dohenybluesfestival.com Map H15 GARDEN GROVE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL May 26-29. Parade, carnival rides, strawberry cake. F 1-10 pm; Sa-Sun 10 am-10 pm; M 10 am-9 pm. Free. Rides from $1. Village Green between Main and Euclid streets, Garden Grove, 714.638.0981, strawberryfestival.org Map J9

THEATER THE KING AND I Through Mar. 11. Rodgers and Hammerstein classic musical tells of the unconventional relationship between the king of Siam and a British schoolteacher hired to teach his many wives and children. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 THE GRADUATE Through Mar. 18. A coming-ofage classic that celebrates a May-December romance in the 1960s; Golden Globe winner and Academy Award nominee Melanie Griffith joins the cast. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 CAMBODIAN ROCK BAND Mar. 4-25. Part comedy, part mystery, part rock concert, this thrilling story toggles back and forth in time, as father and daughter face the music of the past. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 THE BOOK OF MORMON Mar. 20-April 1. Nine-time Tony Award-winning outrageous musical comedy follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 SHREW! Mar. 24-Apr. 21. In Shakespeare’s battle of the sexes, The Taming of the Shrew, Petruchio wins. But

Music + Dance.............. 50 Active Outdoors........... 56 Sports.......................... 52 Beaches and Parks.... 56 Museums..................... 54 Tours + Transport........ 58

what if a 16th-century woman had written it? In Amy Freed’s clever and wickedly funny spin on the classic, Kate triumphs, too. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 COPPÉLIA Mar. 24-25. Festival Ballet Theatre presents a work about dancing doll so lifelike that a village youth is infatuated with it. His real-life love shows him his folly by dressing as the doll and pretending to come to life. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14 SHEN YUN Apr. 3-8. Extravaganza brings the spirit of China’s 5,000 years of civilization to life with music, dance and acrobatics. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 FLYING SOLO Apr. 4-22. Acclaimed baritone Nathan Gunn tells his story through selections from musicals, contemporary songs and opera; written and directed by Hershey Felder. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 LOVE NEVER DIES Apr. 24-May 5. Spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, a story of boundless love full of passion and drama, takes audiences on a thrilling roller coaster ride of intrigue, obsession and romance. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 THE SISTERS ROSENSWEIG Opens May 5. In a witty look at the quest for love and self-fulfillment, three sisters from Brooklyn gather in London for a birthday with the men in their lives. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 HAMILTON May 8-27. Broadway smash hit tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton, a West Indies immigrant who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revoution and American’s first treasury secretary. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 HERSHEY FELDER’S BEETHOVEN May 16-27. The brilliant Felder brings Ludwig van Beethoven’s last years to life through the eyes of a Viennese doctor in a “musical play.” Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15

MUSIC + DANCE HONDA CENTER May 16 Hall & Oates, Trains. May 12 Stars on Ice. May 25 Pink. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES Mar. 6 Hip-hop artist NF. Mar. 8 Architects, Doomsday Tour. Mar. 10 Iced Earth. Mar. 10 Walk Off the Earth. Mar. 11 Sunday Gospel Brunch. Mar. 17 A$AP Ferg. Mar. 22 Ministry. Mar. 23 Club

W John Rea named his walnut ranch Katella for his daughters Kate and Ella in 1896. A school and street—Katella Avenue since 1934—took the name, too. 50 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2018

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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Fashions by Thierry Mugler at FIDM in Irvine, p. 64

Cosplay. Mar. 24 Tribal Theory, ELI-MAC. Mar. 27 Missio. Mar. 29 Whiskey Myers. Mar. 30 OMD. Apr. 2 The Hunna and Coasts. Apr. 20 Dashboard Confessional. Apr. 26 Bunbury. May 19-20 School of Rock Tustin. 400 Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.778.2583, houseofblues.com Map I10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Mar. 15 Vocalist Mandy Gonzalez. Mar. 16 Masters of Hawaiian Music. Mar. 18 Petra and the Wolf. Mar. 20 Arturo Sandoval Quintet. Mar. 24-25 Festival Ballet Theatre, Coppelia. Apr. 5 Aspen Santa Fe Ballet with pianist Joyce Yang. Apr. 12 Del McCoury Band. Apr. 13 Triplets of Belleville. Apr. 14 Brandford Marsalis Quartet. Apr. 18 Dance Theater of Harlem. Apr. 19 Vocalist Brian Stokes Mitchell . Apr. 20 Jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant. Apr. 21 Halau O Kekuhl. Apr. 22 Mozart Classical Orchestra. May 12-13 Suor Angelica. May 23 Voices of Hawaii. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Mar. 2 Chapman Orchestra. Mar. 14 Buddy Guy, Brandy Zdan. Mar. 15 New music and percussion ensembles. Mar. 18 Los Lobos Disconnected. Mar. 23 Kings of Dance. Apr. 7 Cinema and Culture/Italian. Apr. 7 Vocalist Michael Feinstein. Apr. 20-22 Opera Chapman. May 4-5 Dance concert. May 12 Sholund Concert. May 27 Heartbeat of Mexico. Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, 844.626.8726, muscocenter.org Map B4 THE OBSERVATORY Mar. 2 Gogol Bordello, Lucky Chops. Mar. 3 Lil Tracy. Mar. 7 Son Lux, Gordi and Wills. Mar. 9 Eden, Vérité. Mar. 9 Big Wreck, Jesse Roper. Mar. 10 Enslaved, Wolves in the Throne Room, Myrkur, Khemmis. Mar. 10 Harms Way, Ringworm, Vein, Queensway. Mar. 11 Billie Eilish and Reo Cragun. Mar. 14 Emancipator Ensemble, Little People. Mar. 18 Ought, Flasher. Mar. 20 Shopping, French Vanilla. Mar. 21 Sorority Noise, Remo Drive and Foxx Bodies. Mar. 23 Public Access T.V., the Soft White Sixties. Mar. 24 Mako. Mar. 25 Los Pericos. Mar. 29 Quinn XCII, Chelsea Cutler. Mar. 30 Declan McKenna, Chappell Roan. Mar. 31 Clean Bandit. Apr. 3 Brian Fallon and the Howling Weather, Ruston Kelly. Apr. 6 Electric Six. Apr. 21 Coast Modern. Apr. 23 Timeflies. May 2 The Fratellis, Blood Red Shoes. May 5 La Batalla Festival. May 12 Franz Ferdinand. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.957.0600, observatoryoc.com Map J12. SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall Mar. 16-18 Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan, Formosa. Mar. 20-Apr. 1 The Book of Mormon. Apr. 3-8 Shen Yun. April 11 Rain, a Beatles tribute. Apr. 19-22 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Apr. 24-May 5 Love Never Dies. May. 8-27 Hamilton. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Mar. 2 Jake Shimabukuro, ukulele. Mar. 9 Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, violinist Joshua Bell. Mar. 15-18 Pacific Symphony, violinist Pinchas Zukerman. Mar. 21 Zurich Chamber Orchestra. Mar. 23-24 Pacific Symphony and Pink Martini. Mar. 25 Chick Corea and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Mar. 29 San Francisco Symphony, conductor Michael

Tilson Thomas and violinist Gil Shaham. Apr. 6-7 Cirque de la Symphonie. Apr. 7 Cirque for Kids Apr. 12-14 Pacific Symphony. Apr. 16 Boston Pops Orchestra, John Williams program. Apr. 29 Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror with organist Dennis James. May 3 Pacific Symphony, pianist André Watts. May 9 Pianist Yuja Wang. May 11 Vocalist Audra McDonald. May 19 Pacific Chorale. May 31-June 2 Pacific Symphony, pianist Boris Giltburg. Samueli Theater Mar. 4 Ebene Quartet. Mar. 10 GlobalFest, Latin music. Mar. 24-25 The Gruffalo. Apr. 14-15 Shh! We Have A Plan. Apr. 22 Mr. Popper’s Penguins. Apr. 27 Brentano Quartet with soprano Dawn Upshaw. Apr. 28 Pianist Bill Charlap. May 4 Pedrito Martinez Group. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Mar. 2 Chamber Music OC. Mar. 3 Pianist Seong-Jin Cho. Mar. 4 L.A. Guitar Quartet. Mar. 7 Aliso Niguel High School. Mar. 9 Jazz with Billy Childs and Paquito D’Rivera. Mar. 11 Colburn@Soka. Apr. 6 Jazz with Seaon Jones. Apr. 8 Jim Curry, music of John Denver. Apr. 13 Dana Louise and the Glorious Birds. Apr. 15 Pacific Symphony. Apr. 28 Latin rock with La Santa Cecilia. Apr. 29 Pianist Garrick Ohlsson. May 5 International Festival. Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, soka.edu Map E6

SPORTS ANGEL STADIUM Mar. 2 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Cubs. Mar. 4 Angels vs. Rockies. Mar. 5 Angels vs. Reds. Mar. 11 Angels vs. Rangers. Mar. 12 Angels vs. Reds. Mar. 16 Angels vs. Rockies. Mar. 19 Angels vs. Mariners. Mar. 20 Angels vs. Diamondbacks. Mar. 23 Angels vs. Athletics. Mar. 24 Angels vs. Diamondbacks. Mar. 25 Angels vs. Dodgers. Apr. 2-4 Angels vs. Indians. Apr. 6-8 Angels vs. Athletics. Apr. 17-19 Angels vs. Red Sox. Apr. 20-22 Angels vs. Giants. Apr. 27-29 Angels vs. Yankees. May 1-3 Angels vs. Orioles. May 10-13 Angels vs. Twins. May 14-16 Angels vs. Astros. May 17-20 Angels vs. Rays. 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com Map I9 HONDA CENTER March 2 Anaheim Ducks vs. Blue Jackets. Mar. 4 Ducks vs. Blackhawks. Mar. 6 Ducks vs. Captials. Mar. 12 Ducks vs. Blues. Mar. 14 Ducks vs. Canucks. Mar. 16 Ducks vs. Red Wings. Mar. 18 Ducks vs. Devils Mar. 30 Ducks vs. L.A. Kings. Apr. 1 Ducks vs. Avalanche. Apr. 4 Ducks vs. Wild. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11

ATTRACTIONS AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC One of the largest aquariums in the U.S.; highlights include Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest and ethereal sea jellies. Daily 9 am6 pm. $17.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BIG AIR TRAMPOLINE PARK Indoor jumping surfaces include trampoline dodgeball courts, plus rock-climbing wall and mechanical bull. Open daily; call for hours. 8320 On the Mall, Buena Park, 844.550.5867. 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, 949.305.9788 Map B2, G16 BILLY BEEZ Slide, bounce, jump and run at indoor jungle- and bee-themed arena for kids and their families. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.207.4841 Map I10

CHRIST CATHEDRAL Architect Philip Johnson’s glass cathedral and architectural must-sees Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope and Richard Meier’s International Center for Positive Thinking. Tours M-Sa 10 am and 1 pm. Free. 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, 949.375.5763 Map J10 DISCOVERY CUBE Hands-on exhibits, shows in science center and Julianne Argyros Showcase Theater. Through Sept. 9 Rainforest Adventure Exhibit. Ongoing Mission Control; Helicopter Tour; Water Gallery. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95-$17.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s first theme park recently marked its 60th anniversary. Main Street continues to look back with Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln; Tomorrowland looks to the future with Star Wars—construction has begun on a Star Wars-themed land. A mountain range of thrill rides includes Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $97$124, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE New Guardians of the Galaxy—Mission: BREAKOUT! Soarin’ Around the World; California Screamin’; World of Color water-and-light show; Cars Land; The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $97-$124. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre pedestrian promenade adjacent to Disney parks offers dining, shopping, cinema and nightlife, including Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Sanuk for casual shoes and ESPN Zone. Non-gated, free admission. 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 ENVIRONMENTAL NATURE CENTER Intimate center offers 15 California native plant habitats. M-F 8 am-5 pm, Sa until 4 pm. Free. 1601 16th St., Newport Beach, 949.645.8489 Map M13 FLIGHTDECK FLIGHT SIMULATION CENTER Aerial dogfights use F-16 fighter jet cockpit simulators. No experience necessary. Minimum age 11, height 4 feet 11 inches. Starts at $59. Tu-Su 11:30 am-8:30 pm. 1650 S. Sinclair, Anaheim, 714.937.1511 Map I11 FULLERTON ARBORETUM The county’s largest botanical garden features more than 4,000 plant species set amid ponds and streams. Four main collections: Mediterranean, woodland, desert and cultivated. 8 am-4:30 pm. Free; $5 suggested donation. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657.278.3407 Map A3 GO VR GAMING Virtual-reality arcade resembles a calm office setting but ingenious 3-D experiences take you worlds away. There are multiplayer and driving programs, too. M-Th 3-10 pm, F 3-10:30 pm, Sa 1-10:30 pm, Su 1-10 pm. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.829.4189 Map I10 K1 SPEED Indoor kart racing offers challenging track for speed enthusiasts. Call for hours. Available for private parties or corporate events. $20. 17221 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.250.0242; 1000 N. Edward Court, Anaheim, 714.632.6999 Map J14, B4

BOOMERS Family entertainment centers: bumper boats, batting cages, go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag. Open daily; call for hours. 16800 Magnolia St., Fountain Valley, 714.842.1111; 3405 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.559.8341 Maps L9, K14

KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions include Voyage to the Iron Reef. Premier collection of coasters includes Silver Bullet and Xcelerator. Camp Snoopy for younger children. Call for hours and prices; under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map G8

CHOCXO Bean-to-bar chocolatier and factory. Tours Tu-Sa (ages 6 and up) with samples of cocoa nibs, cocoa liquor and products; call for schedule. 9461 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.825.5781 Map D5

LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA Theme park with about 60 rides, shows and attractions. Call for hours. $85-$91, under 3 free. Sea Life Aquarium, add $18. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.LEGO Map south of F6

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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Pure Spanish stallions, swordsmanship, falconry and four-course feast. $36.95-$61.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 MISSION ESCAPE GAMES Work as a team using subtle clues to escape from a locked room in less than 60 minutes. Games include Escape the Hydeout and Escape the Darkest Hour: Torture Chamber, which unfolds mostly in the dark—screaming is usual. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.234.5625 Map I10 NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM Recently reopened following a $15-million renovation. About 70 new exhibits include a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office; another focuses on his historic trip to China. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.983.9120 Map A4 OCEAN INSTITUTE Aboard tall ship Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor. Tide-pool sessions; marine-mammal cruises; blue-whale safaris. Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm; tour Th-F 3:30 pm. $4.50-$6.50, under 3 free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274 Map J16 ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK Huge in-progress park. Tethered-balloon ride, $5-$10, under 18 free with accompanying adult. Carousel, $2. Sand Canyon Avenue at Interstate 5, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 ORANGE COUNTY ZOO Rustic zoo; animals of the Southwest. M-F 10 am-3:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-4:30 pm. $2, under 3 free. Parking $3-$5. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6847 Map C5 PACIFIC MARINE MAMMAL CENTER Injured sea mammals and pups are nursed back to health for return to the sea. Daily, 10 am-4 pm. Free. Donations encouraged. 20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3050 Map G15 PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Venue offering swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard Spanish galleon replica marks 10th anniversary. Call for hours. $36.95-$61.95, under 3 free. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8 PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Interactive miniature city for children, infant to 8 years old. Tu-Sa 10 am-5 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm; M 10 am-1 pm. $12.50, under 1 free. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900 Map D5 QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—in Long Beach Harbor. Shops, dining, art deco lounge; Russian Foxtrot submarine adjacent. Self-guided/guided tours 10 am-6 pm. $14.95$30.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511 Map northwest of C1 THE RIDE 7D Combines roller coaster simulation and laser-blasting. Su-Th 11 am-9 pm; F-Sa 10 am-11 pm. $9; three rides $20. Irvine Spectrum Center, 744 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.769.6772 Map D5 ROCKREATION Indoor climbing facility with instruction at all levels. M noon-10 pm; Tu-Th 6 am-10 pm; F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $11-$16. 1300 Logan Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.556.7625 Map J12 SAFARI PARK Wildlife preserve with vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. $48; children 3-11 $38; kids 2 and under free. Cars $10-15. Open daily, call for hours. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702 Map southeast of F6

SAN DIEGO ZOO Four thousand animals, many rare and endangered, in state-of-the-art environments. $52; 3-11 $42; 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily; call for hours. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515 Map southeast of F6 SANTA ANA ZOO Modest, idyllic zoo. Attractions include the Crean Family Farm and Zoofari Express Train

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SHOPPING heritage hill historic park Park preserves O.C.’s heritage through four historic buildings on 4.1 acres. Tu-Sa 9 am-5 pm. Free. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, 949.923.2230 Map D6 HILBERT Museum Off-campus Chapman University museum displays images of California—urban, industrial, coastal, farms and ranches—by 20th-century artists. Through Mar. 31 50/50: California Art in Transition, 19401970; American Illustration: Children at Play; Making Waves: Rick Griffin, John Severson and California Surf Art; California Masters: Bradford J. Salamon; The Magic of Disney Art, featuring Pinocchio. Opening Apr. 14 New exhibitions to be announced. Tu-Sa 11 am-5 pm. Free. 167 N. Atchison St., Orange, 714.516.5880 Map J11

Shrew! at South Coast Repertory, p. 50

Ride. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $7-$10, under 3 free. 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, 714.836.4000 Map H14 Seaworld Marine-themed attractions include white manatee, Explorer’s Reef, thrill ride Journey to Atlantis and Blue Horizons show. Open daily. Call for hours, combo rates. $83-$89, under 3 free. 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, 800.257.4268 Map southeast of F6 Sherman Library & Gardens Intimate 10-garden botanical collection and Café Jardin. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. Research library open M-F 10:30 am-4 pm. $1-$3, under 12 free. Free first Monday of the month. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261 Map M16 sky high sports Fun center features 360 degrees of trampoline walls; free-bounce and dodgeball. $12 per hour. Call for hours. 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5867 Map J13 TEATRO MARTINI Cabaret experience for couples and groups; comedy, acrobatics, magic, singing, dancing and dining. Th-F 8 pm, Sa 9 pm, Su 8 pm. $69.95. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 844.249.7865 Map G8 Vans Skatepark Skateboard mecca has combi pool and open-street course; Vans store is adjacent. Daily 10 am-10 pm. $12 weekdays; $15 weekends. 20 City Blvd. West No. 2, Orange, 714.769.3800 Map J11

Museums Bowers Kidseum Ethnic arts and culture for children. Sa-Su 10 am-4 pm. $6, under 2 free. Opens May 19 Voyage to Vietnam: Celebrating the Tet Festival. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600 Map G13 Bowers Museum World cultural arts and California exhibitions. Opens Mar. 10 American Visionary: John F. Kennedy’s Life and Times. Opens Apr. 7 First Americans: Tribal Art From North America. Ongoing Sacred Realms: Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan From the Gayle and Edward P. Roski Collection; Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands; First Californians; Ancient Arts of China: A 5000 Year Legacy; Ceramics of Western Mexico. Tu-Su 10 am-4 pm. $10-$15, under 12 free. Separate admission for some exhibits. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600 Map G13 FULLERTON MUSEUM CENTER Ongoing Leo Fender: Life and Legacy. Tu-W, F-Su noon-4 pm; Th noon-8 pm. $2-$5, under 6 free. 301 N. Pomona Ave., Fullerton, 714.738.6545 Map A3 Heritage Museum of Orange County Cultural and natural-history center dedicated to preserving and restoring the county’s heritage. F 1-5 pm, Sat 10 am-2 pm, Su 11 am-3 pm. $5-$7, under 3 free. 3101 W. Harvard St., Santa Ana, 714.540.0404 Map C3

Huntington Beach IntERNATIONAl Surfing Museum Board culture: Duke Kahanamoku, classic surfboards, Endless Summer. Tu-Su noon-5 pm. $2. 411 Olive Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.465.4350 Map N8 The Irvine Museum Collection California Impressionism within an office building. Continuing Harmony of Light: Spring in California. Tu-Sa 11 am5 pm. Free. 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.476.0294 Map J14 Laguna Art Museum California Impressionism and contemporary cultural art. Through May 28 Tony DeLap: A Retrospective. M-Tu, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am-9 pm. $5-$7, under 12 free. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8971 Map H15 LYON AIR Museum Rare operational 20th-century aircraft and other historical vehicles on John Wayne Airport perimeter. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $6-$12, under 5 free. 19300 Ike Jones Road, Santa Ana, 714.210.4585 Map J13

Crystal Cove shopping center Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques Coastal Cool and Atelier 7918, fine dining including Bluefin and newly relocated Marche Moderne. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.759.8687 Map M17 Fashion Island Elegant open-air center, which recently marked its 50th anniversary, features anchors Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, new boutiques Zadig & Voltaire, St. John and Suitsupply, restaurants Sushi Roku and Fig & Olive. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15 5 Points Plaza Neighborhood center offers Loft, Vans, Charming Charlie jewelry, CloudMover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi; barking lot for dogs! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 5pointsplaza.com Map D2 Irvine Spectrum Center Moorish-themed center includes nation’s most-visited movie complex, The Ride 7D, Nordstrom and lots of restaurants. Palatial new Habana nuevo Latino restaurant and Havianas for leisure footwear are new. The giant Ferris wheel is visible from the freeways. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 The Lab Youth-skewed boutiques, hip environment. Urban Outfitters, Eye Society and Crew Salon; dining includes Habana, Gypsy Den. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 LIDO MARINA VILLAGE Elyse Walker, Sweaty Betty and Alchemy Works boutiques, Sugar Paper for luxe stationery, Le Labo for fragrance and Nobu and Lido Bottle Works restaurants are tenants at harborside pedestrian-friendly shopping village. Circle Hook and Malibu Farm eateries open presently. 400 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, 949.675.8662 Map M15

Mission San Juan Capistrano Exhibits at jewel of the California missions (1776). Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. Ongoing Legacy of Saint Serra Exhibit; Mission Treasures: Historical Collection Revealed; Nest Reenactment Exhibit; Plein Air Art Reproductions; South Wing of the Mission; Spanish Colonial Room. Digital audio tour free with admission. Daily 9 am-5 pm. $6-$9, under 3 free. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300 Map I17

LOS OLIVOS MARKETPLACE SwimSpot, Newport Colony Home, Whole Foods Market and a dozen restaurants including Puesto. 8673-8697 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.720.3100 Map D5

Muckenthaler Cultural Center Displays, often design-oriented, in historic North County mansion. Through Apr. 8 H2OMG! Watercolor Gone Wild. Opening Apr. 22 Air, Water and Earth. W-Su noon-4 pm. Free. 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, 714.738.6595 Map A3

NEWPORT COAST SHOPPING CENTER Neighborhood center includes Blue Eyed Girl, Jeanni Champagne and the Passionate Collector. 21101-21185 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.3100 Map L17

MUZEO Intimate exhibition space on Center Street Promenade. Ongoing Anaheim: A Walk Through Local History. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$10. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10

shopping destinations Bella Terra Striking Italian-themed open-air center features Whole Foods Market, REI outdoor-sports specialist and 20-screen cinema. 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.897.2534 Map C2 Brea Mall Huge mall, Orange County’s second largest, is home to anchors Nordstrom and Macy’s and 174 other retailers including a Tesla store, Kidgets, Nature Republic and Pink. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, 714.990.2733 Map A3 The Camp Green-oriented enclave for outdoor enthusiasts includes eco store SEED People’s Market and dining options Taco Asylum, Ecco and Old Vine Cafe. 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 Corona del Mar Plaza Boutiques include Diane’s Beachwear, Gail Jewelers and Jack’s Surfboards. Plus Sprinkles Ice Cream. 800-984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949.759.8687 Map M15

mainplace Indoor million-square-foot center offers Nordstrom, 190 shops and 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball and open-air swimming. 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13

The outlets at orange Includes DKNY, Levi’s, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Vans Skatepark for indoor boarding. 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.4001 Map J11 outlets at san clemente Spanish-inspired center with ocean views. Stores include Vans, Guess and new Luxury Mall. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, outletsatsanclemente.com Map south of F6 PACIFIC CITY Center with beach views from every plaza, deck and patio. H&M, the Wearhouse, Francesca’s, Kin, West of Camden and Heirlooms & Hardware. 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.930.2345 Map N9 The Shops at Mission Viejo From Aveda to Z Gallerie: anchors Nordstrom and Macy’s plus Madewell; Soma, Pea in the Pod and the Melt. 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, 949.364.1832 Map E6 south coast collection Highlights include Design Within Reach midcentury showroom and Pirch for kitchen and bath. O.C. Mix features 30 vendors; distinctive retail includes the Mixing Glass for mixologists and new Kestan women’s boutique as well as unforgettable Taco María restaurant. 3303-3323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12

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GOLF SOUTH COAST PLAZA The Ultimate Shopping Experience recently marked its 50th anniversary. Boutiques include Christian Louboutin, Chanel, Stella McCartney and Dior Homme. Macy’s Home Store and new CB2 are in the Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13

EATERTAINMENT ANAHEIM GARDENWALK House of Blues Anaheim, Cali-style brands including O’Neill and Skechers Harley-Davidson, Grasslands Meat Market, BBQ and Churrasco, Roy’s Restaurant, Mission Escape Games and Go VR Gaming. 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.635.7410 Map I10 THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY Open-air lifestyle destination offers AMC theaters, Whole Foods Market, dining (the Winery, the Halal Guys) and curated dining and retail at Union Market Tustin (The Kroft sandwiches, Portola Coffee, Central Bar). Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.9090 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex adjacent to Disney theme parks includes Build-A-Bear, Studio Disney 365, Ridemakerz, Catal restaurant and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 THE TRIANGLE Time nightclub, Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, Starlight Cinemas plus restaurants Saddle Ranch Chop House and Black Knight Gastro Lounge. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map K12

GOLF COURSES ANAHEIM HILLS GOLF COURSE “The Hills.” Fine golf value, with 18 holes set amid vistas, valleys, streams, oaks and sycamores. M-Th $52, F $59, Sa-Su $70. Includes cart and GPS. Twilight rates available. 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road, Anaheim, 714.998.3041 Map B5

Easy come, easier go. We’re conveniently located right around the corner from your hotel. To make it even easier, we’ll pick you up. To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or visit enterprise.com/hotelguests2.

ARROYO TRABUCO GOLF CLUB Upscale course on Ladera Open Space Reserve. M-Th $72, F $87, Sa-Su $101. 26772 Avery Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.305.5100 Map E6 BEN BROWN’S GOLF COURSE Picturesque nine-hole course in canyon with coastal breezes and 19 bunkers. M-Th $29, F $34, Sa-Su $38. 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 Map I16 BLACK GOLD GOLF CLUB Challenges at oilthemed canyon course include elevation changes, blind tee shots. M-Th $87, F $99, Sa-Su $115. Includes cart and GPS system. 1 Black Gold Drive, Yorba Linda, 714.961.0060 Map A4 COSTA MESA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Mesa Linda course is shorter, more difficult than Los Lagos. Mesa Linda $26-$38; Los Lagos $33-$47. 1701 Golf Course Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.540.7500 Map D3 COYOTE HILLS COUNTRY CLUB Course designed by Cal Olson and PGA Tour legend Payne Stewart. Lighted driving range, chipping and sand play area. Call for rates. Includes cart and GPS system. 1440 E. Bastanchury Road, Fullerton, 714.672.6800 Map A3 DAD MILLER GOLF COURSE Tiger Woods’ home course during high school; for beginning to intermediate golfers. M-Th $29, F $36, Sa-Su $41. 430 N. Gilbert St., Anaheim, 714.765.3481 Map G8 FULLERTON GOLF CLUB Creek plays into many holes. Call for rates. 2700 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.578.9201 Map A3

MILE SQUARE GOLF COURSE Two challenging 18-hole courses. M-Th $34-$38, F $39-$45, SaSu $48. 10401 Warner Ave., Fountain Valley, 714.962.5541 Map C2

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BEACHES + PARKS CA SURF ‘N’ PADDLE Year-round surfing and stand-up-paddleboard lessons. Free parking. 689 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.1423 Map H15 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH SURF LESSONS Schools include Endless Sun Surf, 949.533.1022; Newport Surf Camp, 866.787.3267; and Erik Nelsen Surf Camp, 949.464.0077 newportbeachca.gov Map D3 COUNTRY TRAILS AND RIDING SCHOOL Guided horseback rides among massive coast live oaks and California sycamores. Tu-Su. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.538.5860, Map C5

Surfboard at Winter Waters, Chris Burkard exhibit at Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, p. 64

MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views abound at the gorgeous 18-hole course. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes a cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. Monarch Beach Resort, 50 Monarch Beach Resort Drive N., Dana Point, 949.240.8247 Map J16 NEWPORT BEACH GOLF COURSE Contoured executive course offers night play. $13-$27. 3100 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.852.8681 Map L15 OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bull-nose carved bunkers and picturesque greens on Tom Fazio course. M-Th $130, F-Su $175. Includes cart. 1 Golf Club Drive, Irvine, 949.653.5300 Map D5 PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Two gorgeous 18-hole courses at the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; virtually every hole has spectacular coastal views. $290 daily. 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 877.735.4226 Map L17 RANCHO SAN JOAQUIN Course offers big hilly greens with water on seven holes. Call for rates. 1 Ethel Coplen Way, Irvine, 949.786.5522 Map D4 STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF CLUB Eighteen-hole course features rolling greens, barn, canyon, wetland vistas and O.C.’s longest hole. M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D5 TALEGA GOLF CLUB Scenic canyons, marshes, Spanish Colonial-style clubhouse, 18-hole championship course with Augusta white-sand bunkers designed in part by Masters champion Fred Couples. M-Th $80, F $90, Sa-Su $100. 990 Avenida Talega, San Clemente, 949.369.6226 Map south of F6 TIJERAS CREEK GOLF CLUB Play through front “lake” nine; old-growth sycamores, oaks and native chaparral on back nine. Ted Robinson-designed. M-F $95, Sa-Su $120. 29082 Tijeras Creek Road, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.589.9793 Map east of E6 TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB Resort-style course designed by Ted Robinson. Challenging greens, palm trees and lakes, clubhouse. Private caddie service. M-Th $115, F $135, Sa-Su $165. Additional cart fee. 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, 714.730.1611 Map C5

ACTIVE OUTDOORS

PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES Electric bike rentals $20-$35 per hour or $75-$125 per day. Tour three piers and Newport Harbor for $89 per person. 301 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.2782; 2515 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.612.7989; 4624 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.274.7944 Map N9, M16, D5

BEACHES + PARKS ALISO CREEK COUNTY BEACH Steep shore creates powerful waves. All amenities and fire pits. Pay-anddisplay parking $1/hour. 31131 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280 Map I16 BALBOA BEACH Pristine sunning and swimming beach. All amenities. Metered parking. Along Balboa Boulevard at Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N14 BOLSA CHICA STATE BEACH Good for grunion hunting! All amenities and fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Main Street and Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach, 714.846.3460 Map N9 CAPISTRANO BEACH Wide, unblemished. All amenities. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. 35005 Beach Road, Capo Beach, 949.923.2280 Map F6 CORONA DEL MAR STATE BEACH Large, sandy beach—with volleyball—below beautiful homes. Lifeguards, all amenities, fire pits. Waveless cove adjacent. Fee for parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Marguerite Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16 CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK Hiking and mountain biking trails, sandy coves and steep cliffs. Historic district with beach cottages and Beachcomber café. Irvine Coast Marine Life Refuge offshore. Lifeguards, restrooms. Fee for parking. East Coast Highway between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, 949.494.3539 Map E4 DOHENY STATE BEACH Popular swimming beach, interpretive center. All amenities, fire pits. Fee for parking. Dana Point Harbor, along Del Obispo and Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.496.6172 Map K17 HUNTINGTON CITY BEACH Wide, sandy beach; amenities include fire pits. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Beach Boulevard and Main Street, Huntington Beach, 714.536.5281 Map N9 HUNTINGTON STATE BEACH Expansive, sandy beach; amenities include fire pits. Bolsa Chica Wetlands are across the highway. Fee for parking. Along Pacific Coast Highway between Santa Ana River and Main Street, Huntington Beach, 714.536.1454 Map N10

AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in high- performance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2

LITTLE CORONA DEL MAR BEACH Steep paved path to picturesque cove; tide pools filled with anemones and starfish are great for kids. Ocean Boulevard and Poppy Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16

BALBOA BOAT RENTALS AND PARASAIL Boat, kayak and stand-up-paddleboard rentals. Parasailing: panoramic views of Newport Beach and harbor with choice of altitudes ($65-$75). 510 E. Edgewater, Balboa, 949.673.7200 Map N15

MAIN BEACH Large beach adjacent to shops and restaurants offers great people-watching, basketball, volleyball and chess. All amenities. Metered parking. At Broadway and Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map F5

NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL BEACH Popular, wide golden strand with many fine surfing spots. All amenities, including fire pits. Metered parking. Along Oceanfront at Newport Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N13 NEWPORT DUNES RESORT Beach at RV park on the Back Bay has full-time lifeguards, giant inflatable in-water novelties (including teeter-totter and climbing apparatus) and various water vessels for rent. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.DUNE Map M14 PICNIC BEACH Known for picnics and panoramas. Lifeguard and picnic tables. Metered parking. Myrtle Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6573 Map H15 PIRATES COVE Secluded beach with harbor views; few to no waves make it perfect for little ones. Paid parking at Corona del Mar State Beach; free street parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Harbor Channel, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3309 Map F6 POCHE BEACH Small, sandy surfing beach. Free street parking. Camino Capistrano at Pacific Coast Highway, San Clemente, 949.361.8261 Map J17 ROCKPILE BEACH Rocky surfing beach. Metered parking. At Myrtle Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6573 Map H15 SALT CREEK COUNTY BEACH Long and pristine stretch below the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Beautiful, grassy Bluff Park has a basketball court. All amenities. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. Off Ritz-Carlton Drive, 33333 S. Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.923.2280 Map J16 SAN CLEMENTE CITY BEACH Twelve-hundredfoot pier (1920s), wide beach, good surf. All amenities. Metered parking. The train goes right by the beach. 620 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.361.8219 Map K17 SAN CLEMENTE STATE BEACH Popular mile-long beach below sandstone bluffs offers all amenities, a nature trail and butterfly trail. Fee for parking. 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente, 949.492.3156 Map K17 SEAL BEACH Popular surfing beach has a lifeguard and showers. Metered parking. Main Street and Seal Beach Pier, Seal Beach, 562.430.2613 Map C1 SHAW’S COVE Picturesque cove has tide pools and is a popular diving destination. Metered street parking. At Fairview Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach Map H15 TABLE ROCK BEACH One hundred forty-four wooden steps lead to a dramatic cove with dangerous currents below a cliff. Free street parking. First Avenue and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16 THOUSAND STEPS BEACH Two-hundred-something concrete steps lead to a small beach at the base of a cliff. Free street parking. Ninth Avenue and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16 VICTORIA BEACH Laguna’s prettiest beach has a tower fit for Rapunzel and a man-made, high-tide swimming pool circa 1920. Metered parking. Victoria Street off Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map H15 THE WEDGE World-renowned bodysurfing and bodyboarding spot. The break is dangerous; watch unless you’re an expert. Free parking lot. West Jetty View Park, tip of Balboa Peninsula, end of Channel Road, Newport Beach, 949.644.3309 Map N16 WEST STREET BEACH Small cove beach with volleyball courts. Metered parking. West Street and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16

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BEACHES + PARKS REGIONAL PARKS CARBON CANYON REGIONAL PARK Wild and rugged canyon terrain good for hiking and horseback riding. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea, 714.973.3160 Map A4 CLARK REGIONAL PARK Ideal for picnicking, fishing and tennis. Interpretive center houses fossils of local prehistoric plants and animals. 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park, 714.973.3170 Map A3  IRVINE REGIONAL PARK On land donated by James Irvine in 1897, California’s oldest regional park houses the Orange County Zoo and Irvine Park Railroad. Oldgrowth oak and sycamore trees. Families have picnicked at the park for more than 100 years. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6835 Map B5 LAGUNA NIGUEL REGIONAL PARK Wide selection of outdoor activities, including tennis, volleyball, jogging and bicycling in well-landscaped setting. There’s fishing on a 44-acre lake. 28241 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2240 Map F6

ome to the Aquarium of the Pacific where you and your family can get in touch with nature and marine life, any time you want. Touch sharks. Watch penguins play. Over 11,000 animals await you. Don’t miss the exhibit FROGS: Dazzling and Disappearing.

562 . 590 . 3100 100 AquArium WAy, LOng BeAch, cA 90802 AquAriumofpAcific.org

Home Sweet Home .

MASON REGIONAL PARK Large grassy areas, picnic shelters, hundreds of acres of protected land with 3 miles of paved trails for hikers and bikers. Many native animal species; lake and lush shade trees. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, 949.923.2220 Map D4 MILE SQUARE REGIONAL PARK Reservable sports fields, walking and biking paths and fishing on two ponds. Yes, it’s 1 mile square. 16801 Euclid St., Fountain Valley, 714.973.6600 Map B1 O’NEILL REGIONAL PARK Expansive 3,300-acre park is a distinctive spot for both day use and camping. Includes the Arroyo Trabuco area, 935 acres of relatively pristine land maintained as a wilderness preserve. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, 949.923.2256 Map east of D6 PETERS CANYON REGIONAL PARK Blend of native vegetation and scenic trails. Lush groves of willows and black cottonwoods intertwine with a rambling creek and encase a 50-acre lake. Variety of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, 714.973.6611 Map B5  SANTIAGO OAKS REGIONAL PARK Secluded 1,750acre refuge has trails, native oak trees and historic dam. Nature Center open on weekends. 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, 714.973.6620 Map B4

WILDERNESS PARKS ALISO AND WOOD CANYONS WILDERNESS PARK Thirty-three-hundred-plus-acre park is home to world-class mountain-biking terrain and superb hiking; its canyons have an idyllic feel unmatched in Orange County. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, 949.923.2200 Map H16

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CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK Eight thousand acres for day use, hiking and camping. Nature center and interpretive programs. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210 Map east of F6 LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK Sycamoreshaded canyons and high ridges offering spectacular ocean views and hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Nature center serves as a gateway to 7,000-acre natural habitat. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.923.2235 Map G15 LIMESTONE CANYON AND WHITING RANCH WILDERNESS PARK Docent-led hikes, bike rides and equestrian tours of 5,000 acres of forested canyons, rock formations, rolling hills, streams and trails. Natural history interpretive center. Portola Parkway and Market Place, Foothill Ranch, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6

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NIGHTLIFE Pianist Yuja Wang at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, p. 52

PERALTA ADOBE HISTORIC SITE One of the last remaining structures of the Peralta settlement, home to pioneering families in the 1800s. By reservation through George Key Ranch (listing on this page). 6398 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim, 714.973.3190 Map A4 YORBA CEMETERY Dates to 1858. Final resting place for many O.C. pioneers. Visits by reservation through George Key Ranch, 714.973.3190. 6749 Parkwood Court, Yorba Linda Map A5

NIGHTLIFE A&O Waterfront Anchors & Oceans bar with gastropub fare. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4285 Map M14 AC LOUNGE Lobby bar at stylish new hotel. Swedish Fish aquavit cocktail; Hendrick’s Gin and Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic; and small bites. AC Hotel, Park Place, 3309 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.471.8710 Map J14 MODJESKA CANYON NATURE PRESERVE At base of Santa Ana Mountains and bordered by Cleveland National Forest on three sides. Accessible only by rangerled tours with advance reservations. Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6 RICHARD AND DONNA O’NEILL LAND CONSERVANCY 1,200-acre reserve; public access during special events. Call for schedule. Rancho Mission Viejo, 28672 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.9778 Map east of F6 RILEY WILDERNESS PARK Oak groves, grasslands and deer. Native plant garden attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. 30952 Oso Parkway, Coto de Caza, 949.923.2265 Map east of E6 TALBERT NATURE PRESERVE Hiking trails in an “ecological staircase” of a salt marsh, freshwater wetlands, grasslands and woodlands. 1298 Victoria Ave. at Santa Ana River, Costa Mesa, 949.923.2290 Map M11 UPPER NEWPORT BAY NATURE PRESERVE At Newport Back Bay with vistas of the coastal wetlands. One of the finest birding sites in North America. Interpretive center is open Tu-Su, 10 am-4 pm. 2301 University Drive (corner of University Drive and Irvine Avenue), Newport Beach, 949.923.2290 Map K13

HISTORICAL PARKS ARDEN: HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Home of 19th-century actress Madame Helena Modjeska. National historic landmark named for the Forest of Arden in Shakespeare’s As You Like It. By appointment. 29042 Modjeska Canyon Road, Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2230 Map east of D6 GEORGE KEY RANCH HISTORIC PARK 1898 building, botanical garden and citrus grove present a view of life in the early days of the county’s citrus farming. National Register of Historic Places. 625 W. Bastanchury Road, Placentia, 714.973.3190 Map A4 HERITAGE HILL HISTORIC PARK Park preserves O.C.’s cultural heritage through four historic buildings representing distinct eras in the area’s development. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, 949.923.2230 Map D6 IRVINE RANCH HISTORIC PARK Once the heart of the Irvine agricultural empire, the park preserves the ranch operations headquarters as well as the site of the original Irvine family home. O.C. Parks headquarters. 13042 Old Myford Road, Irvine, 714.973.6609 Map C5 OLD ORANGE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Site where local governmental transactions and court proceedings shaped the county’s early history. Restored in 1989, it houses historical exhibits, archives, special events and a marriage license office. 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.973.6605 Map H13

AQUA LOUNGE Waved ceiling, 360-degree bar, huge patio, street-food-inspired menu ... and group cocktails! Deejays Th-Su. Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 Map L15 BARCODE 1980s and ’90s-themed “nostalgia bar restaurant” offers clever drinks and Asian fusion fare and tapas. 12926 Main St., Garden Grove, 949.390.8499 Map L15 BLIND RABBIT Speakeasy with 1920s atmosphere hidden behind wall at Anaheim Packing House. Don’t like your drink? Your server will finish it! 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, theblindrabbit.com Map H10 BOWLMOR Hip, state-of-the-art, glow-in-the-dark bowling lounge with sports bar and global cuisine. The District at Tustin Legacy, 2405 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.2695; Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map D4, I10 THE BUNGALOW Expansive ocean views, sweeping decks, lush gardens, rustic interiors and seasonal bites by Bear Flag Fish Co. Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0399 Map N9 CALAVINO WINE BAR Fine wines, craft beers and New American fare are offered near Angel Stadium. 2410 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.939.7735 Map I11 COLONY WINE MERCHANT Tasting lounge and wine retailer celebrates Anaheim’s wine history. 280 S. Lemon St., Anaheim, 657.208.1860 Map H10 COSTA MESA 55 TAVERN + BOWL State-of-the-art bowling alley, sports viewing and dining at “eatertainment” center. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.438.2320 Map K12 THE FIFTH Rooftop venue offers craft cocktails, local beers, fine menu, live music and view of Disneyland fireworks. Grand Legacy at the Park, 1650 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.0899 Map I10 HOLIDAY Vintage Southern decor, craft cocktails, live music and bar within a bar—the Red Room—in a strip mall. 719 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.536.4389 Map K12 IRVINE IMPROV Top comedy. Two-item minimum; Umami burgers. Irvine Spectrum Center, 572 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5 LOLA GASPAR Ever-hip bar and excellent kitchen in the heart of the Artist Village in downtown Santa Ana. 211 W. Second St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13 LUCKY STRIKE LANES Retro-cool bowling lounge with DJ. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd., Orange, 714.937.5263 Map J11

MARINE ROOM TAVERN Laid-back bar; live rock and blues on weekends. 214 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3027 Map H15 THE OBSERVATORY Live rock, alternative, jazz and blues lineup and food. More acts in the Constellation Room. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.957.0600 Map I15 PALI WINE CO. Tasting room features pinot noirs, chardonnays from Central Coast, Tower 15 label Bordeaux and Rhone blends. Five-wine flights $15. The Anaheim Packing District, 500 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.486.0922 Map H10 ROOFTOP LOUNGE Sunset cocktails and panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15 SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND LOUNGE Super-stylish spot opposite Sgerstrom Center for the Arts, ideal for preor post-theater cocktails. 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 Map J13 THE SPEAKEASY Hidden on cobblestone street at Old World Village; beer, wine and small plates. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.899.3279 Map C2 STAG BAR + KITCHEN Convivial bar established in 1908 opposite Newport Pier. 121 McFadden Place, Newport Beach, 949.673.4470 Map N13 TIME NIGHTCLUB Club with cool decor, musical acts and big-name DJs moves to impressive new digs. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7103 Map K12 WILD GOOSE Cocktails, seasonal beers, creative sausages and burgers amid hunt-lodge-saloon decor. 436 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.722.9453 Map N12 WINE LAB Wine/cheese tasting room and store at hip outdoors-themed center. The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.905.9521 Map J13 YOST THEATER Historical landmark now hosts popular musical acts and DJs. 307 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 800.717.1545 Map H13 YNK Ever-changing globally inspired drinks (“You Never Know”) at intimate, stylish bar are among the county’s best and most creative. Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.553.0100 Map J14

TOURS + TRANSPORT AMTRAK Train service within the county and to destinations throughout California daily. Stops in Fullerton, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com ANAHEIM REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INTERMODAL CENTER (ARTIC) Spectacular architecture. Metrolink and Amtrak trains, OCTA buses, Anaheim Resort Transportation, shuttles, taxis and charter buses. There’s also an oyster bar. 1750 S. Douglass Road, Anaheim, 877.99.ARTIC, articinfo.com ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) Shuttles cover 19 routes—including new one in Costa Mesa—transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk and Anaheim Convention Center. Purchase passes online, at Amtrak station and select hotels. 888.364.2787, rideart.org BEST-VIP CHAUFFEURED WORLDWIDE Chauffeured vehicles available with as little as two hours’ notice. 866.323.2378; 714.375.9128 Map C2 CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Catamaran with underwater viewing pod allows for exciting marine life observation. Departures daily. Also, sunset safaris and occasional Catalina Island

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TOURS + TRANSPORT trips.$35-$59. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828 Map J16 CATALINA EXPRESS Round trip to Catalina Island. Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Harbor; 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, 800.481.3470 Map K16, northwest of C1 CATALINA FLYER Triple-decker catamaran, 75 minutes to Catalina Island. Call for schedule. $53-$70, $6 age 2 and under. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 800.830.7744, catalinainfo.com Map N15 CITY PASS Includes discounted admission to Disney parks, admission to others in Los Angeles and San Diego. Purchase online or at attractions. $269-$306, under 3 free. 888.330.5008, citypass.com

Visit the BIRTHPLACE of

DANA WHARF WHALE-WATCHING AND SPORTFISHING Sportfishing, whale-watching expeditions, twilight wine cruises, corporate parties and schooner yacht for charters. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 800.979.3370, danawharf.com Map K16

ORANGE COUNTY

DAVEY’S LOCKER Whale-watching, deep-sea sportfishing, fishing charters, boat rentals and entertainment cruises. Fishing trips and charters half day, full day, overnight and longer. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 949.673.1434, daveyslocker.com Map N15 ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR Daily car rentals with some 25 locations throughout Orange County. Pickup service available. 888.484.4683, enterprise.com EXECUCAR Luxury service. Sedan and SUV, flat rates, special group services, frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.410.4444, execucar.com HORNBLOWER CRUISES Luxury party yachts. F-Sa dinner-dance cruises, Sa-Su Champagne brunch. Mariner’s Mile Marina, 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.0155, hornblower.com Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT Gateway to Orange County, vastly superior to LAX in ambiance and ease of arrival and departure. Art exhibits; new dining exhibit; dining in Terminal C. Free Wi-Fi. Ticket counters open at 5 am. 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, 949.252.5200, ocair.com LAGUNA BEACH TROLLEY Free service year-round along Coast Highway. F 4-11 pm, Sa 11 am-11 pm and Su 11 am-8 pm. visitlagunabeach.com/trolley Map H15 METROLINK Train system connects to San Diego, Los Angeles; stops in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo, Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton and Buena Park. $10 weekend day pass (Sa-Su) for Metrolink rails and Southern California public transportation. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com

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TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR See celebrity haunts and scandal sites aboard state-of-the-art bus. $53-$63. Starline Tours, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868, tmz.com

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ORANGE COUNTY

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605

/ MAPS 71

5 90

Brea Downtown

105 91

91 90 91

605

405

57 Christ Cathedral

241

Outlets at Orange

261

405 1 5

Bella Terra

241 The Marketplace

55 Segerstrom Center for the Arts

133 39

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Pacific City

The Triangle

Lido Marina Village

210 101

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134 110

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Crystal Cove Shopping Center

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Pirate’s Dinner Adventure/Teatro Martini

Muzeo Anaheim Packing House

McDonald’s

ARTIC

McDonald’s

Sout Col

405

57 Christ Cathedral

Outlets at Orange

22 22

where

where ART Routes

1 The Strand

Pacific City

where Orange County

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ORANGE COUNTY

/ MAPS

MainPlace Mall Discovery Cube

Artists Village

74 55 1

South Coast Segerstrom Center for the Arts Repertory

South Coast Collection

Costa Mesa Marriott

405 55

where

The Camp The Lab

405

where Newport Beach Marriott Bayview

The Triangle

where Orange County

Newport Coast Shopping Center The Triangle/Yard House Fashion Island/Yard House

Crystal Cove Shopping Center

ere

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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE

Thierry Mugler: Alien to Angel, intimate fashion display at FIDM in Irvine. 888.974.3436 Lunch trios—you choose the trio—at Las Brisas in Laguna Beach. p. 40 Colorful handbags at the new O Bag boutique at Irvine Spectrum Center. p. 54 The Shinnecock popcorninfused cocktail at The Country Club, new in Costa Mesa. p. 34 CocoRose Boutique for women in Orange. 714.383.3884 Archery-dodgeball hybrid Arrow Tag OC in Santa Ana. 714.517.1992 The vibrant street-art murals and other design touches at new Puesto Park Place in Irvine. p. 34 Bird-watching at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve in Huntington Beach. 714.846.1114

where in the world

Guardians of the Galaxy— Mission: BREAKOUT!, new at Disney California Adventure in Anaheim. p. 52 Arc Pizza House, adjacent to Arc at South Coast Collection, new in Costa Mesa. p. 34 Mode-ology women’s boutique on Balboa Island in Newport Beach. 949.675.0600 Whale-watching with Dana Wharf Sportfishing in Dana Point. p. 59 Whaling Wall and other marine art at Wyland Galleries in Laguna Beach. 949.376.8000 Flamenco shows at Tapas Flavor of Spain, new at Kaleidoscope in Mission Viejo. p. 41 Home decor and accessories at CB2, new at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. p. 55

WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,

Pop! Comics and Culture Emporium in Anaheim. 657.208.3835

Chocolate-cup “café cubano” at Bakery Habana, inside Habana at Irvine Spectrum Center. p. 40

Alfresco new Center 360 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. p. 34

Caftans at new swimwear boutique ViX Paula Hermanny at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. p. 54

The luxe Foundation Room at the new House of Blues at Anaheim GardenWalk. p. 50 Winter Waters, Chris Burkard photography and surfboards through April at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 949.240.2000 The 1894 Heritage House at Fullerton Arboretum. p. 52 Mr. Holmes Bakehouse pastries at Portola Coffee Lab at O.C. Mix in Costa Mesa. p. 54 The acoustics at Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University in Orange. p. 52

Freshly baked cinnamon rolls in a cast-iron pan at Water Grill brunch in Costa Mesa. p. 42 Timber Mountain log ride at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park. p. 52 New Wildfire Mercantile Western boutique in San Juan Capistrano. 949.240.6770 Straight-blade shaves at fIne men’s salon Eighteen Eight in Costa Mesa. p. 24 Fresh-pod durian rolled ice cream at Destination Seafood House in Westminster. p. 44

New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg

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