SUMMER 2015 WHEREOC.COM
Orange County
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COOLEST COASTAL HIKES FESTIVALS OF ART DISNEY’S DIAMOND 60TH CHEFS GO WILD!
LINES IN THE
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ANAHEIM’S MOST DELICIOUS DESTINATION
Just Steps from the Disneyland ® Resort and Anaheim Convention Center Anaheim GardenWalk An amazing collection of nationally acclaimed restaurants, exciting night life, shopping, cinemas and an upscale bowling and entertainment venue.
Bowlmor Lanes Billy Beez McCormick & Schmick’s Grille The Cheesecake Factory Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon Fire + Ice Grill + Bar California Pizza Kitchen P.F. Chang’s Johnny Rockets Heat Ultra Lounge UltraLuxe Cinemas
COMING SOON: Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill Grasslands Churrasco Market Mojito Latin Cuisine & Bar Taverna Asian Food Hall Rumba Room Live
D I N I N G . E N T E R TA I N M E N T. S H O P P I N G . Facebook.com/TheGardenWalk
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where orange county
summer 2015
CONTENTS
departments
the guide
5 Editor’s Note
34 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and by city
Surf-to-summit hikes and other off-menu ideas.
55 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports
6 Hot Dates Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach
56 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, cultural venues and exhibitions
80 30 Things We Love
where now
60 SHOPPING The county’s major retail destinations
8 Dining Sushi Roku at Fashion Island. 4th Street Market and Anaheim Packing House food halls. Liquid-nitrogen ice cream.
61 GOLF The most beautiful and most interesting courses 63 BEACHES + PARKS Paradise found, on the trail and on the coast
10 Out + About Musicals about music—Motown the Musical and Phantom of the Opera—at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Laguna Beach galleries.
70 NIGHTLIFE Hottest clubs, lounges, bars and wine bars 72 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, and getting from here to there
12 Attractions
ON THE COVER Seafolly Block Party sleeveless rash vest ($101) and Block Party multi-strap hipster ($67). Model Gigi Hadid. Photo by Enrique Badulesu. See page 14
18 Dripping Cave Trail
features
CITY TOURS Metro Cities The Coast South Coast North Coast
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Like the great fashion houses, each of a trio of Newport Beach swimwear boutiques carries but a single label. BY ZOE LORENZO
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Brea Downtown
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Bella Terra
18 Coolest Coastal Hikes Laguna Beach and environs offer some of the county’s best trails—and they often come with ocean breezes. BY JOSEPH ELLIOTT
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14 Lines in the Sand
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The Marketplace
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Segerstrom Center for the Arts
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Explore the county north to south and A to Z PAGE 77
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The Triangle
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Copyright © 2015
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CONNECT WITH US ONLINE
20 Into the Wild Whipple yucca? Seeking the freshest and often unusual ingredients, chefs take to the local canyons and foothills. BY ROGER GRODY
whereoc.com Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California WHERE editors online and on your smartphone.
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CHLOE EPSTEIN
Disneyland and Disney California Adventure mark 60 years of Disney magic with a diamond celebration.
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EMAIL Advertising JLevy@WhereOC.com Editorial Benjamin.Epstein@WhereOC.com Art Art@WhereOC.com Production Ads@WhereOC.com Website Christina.Xenos@WhereOC.com Circulation Laura.Okey@WhereOC.com Plan ahead for your next visit to Orange County. Subscribe to where: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Laura Okey 714.825.1700 © 2015 Southern California Media Group. All Rights reserved Published by Southern California Media Group. Printed in the United States. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where is a registered trademark of where International LP.
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welcome
Visit Wyland Galleries Laguna Beach
A note from the editor
flagship gallery of California’s most beloved nature artist. OnLy in LaGuna Beach.
DO TELL!
“Off-menu” refers to “secret” items intended for those in the know— regulars and friends of regulars. “Secret” is relative, of course: The Animal Style burger at SoCal chain In-N-Out, for instance, is fairly common knowledge. Although most people are not supposed to know about these items, it’s not so good if nobody knows. So, since Where’s mandate is to keep readers in the know, here are three off-menu tips inspired by this issue. Off-menu eating: Speaking of burgers, one of my very favorites, originally served at Playground in Santa Ana, is now found across the street at fast-casual spinoff Wagyu Chuck, inside new 4th Street Market (see page 9). Like some absurdly flavorful crusted tartare, it delivers a blend primarily of wagyu tri-tip and brisket, maple-bourbon onions, Gruyère and fontina cheeses and crisped Parmesan mayonnaise on a horseradish potato bun. Whether it’s off-menu or on is hard to say: Only the price is listed, leaving you to order the “blank.” (Asking for the Playground burger also works.) Off-menu hiking: The Valido Trail (p. 18), one of the county’s best, and prettiest, gets better still if you make it a surf-to-summit effort. Starting from Table Rock Beach in Laguna Beach adds 144 wooden steps and three-tenths of a residential mile in each direction. Crystal Cove State Park offers similar opportunities; you could end at the Beachcomber or its Bootleggers Bar, both right on the sand (p. 34). Off-menu shopping: Need a swimsuit but short on time or not sure where to start? You’ll find several Fashion Island options on page 14, but there are lots more—Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, for starters. Consider using one of the center’s personal shoppers: They’re fashionsavvy; they can preselect or accompany you; they’re not on commission and do not accept tips; you don’t have to buy a thing; and at Fashion Island—unlike elsewhere, where they run $150 per hour—they’re free. And now you’re more in the know than the locals! —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
Dolphin Playground, original oil painting by Wyland ©
Wyland Galleries
509 South Coast Highway Laguna Beach, CA 92651 800-WYLAND-1 OPEN DAILY 9 AM TO 9 PM
www.wyland.com Follow Wyland Get a tour of the gallery and receive a free Wyland print, limit one per family.
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WHERE CALENDAR SUMMER 2015 Search the full calendar at whereoc.com
Top Stops EVER ON THE MOVE, RENOWNED SHOPPING DESTINATIONS SOUTH COAST PLAZA IN COSTA MESA AND FASHION ISLAND IN NEWPORT BEACH ARE ATTRACTIONS UNTO THEMSELVES. HERE ARE TWO NEW REASONS WHY.
HOT DATES
JULY 8-AUG. 31 HAPPY SUMMER The Pageant of the Masters, among the world’s most distinctive theatrical productions, this year explores “The Pursuit of Happiness.” The show’s renowned tableaux vivants (“living pictures”) re-create works of art—such as Edward Percy Moran's painting of Betsy Ross presenting the first American flag to Gen. George Washington, above—using live people; narration and orchestral accompaniment are also live. A ticket includes unlimited season admission to the adjacent openair Festival of Arts, named one of the nation’s top art festivals by USA Today. p. 55
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GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED
1 LAGUNA ART FESTS > JUNE 26-AUG. 30 Art-A-Fair displays works by 125 artists, Sawdust Festival by 200 Laguna Beach artists, Festival of Arts (July 5-Aug. 31) 140 artists. Passport to the Arts offers unlimited admission to all three. p. 55
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at WhereOC.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.
2 ANGELS VS. YANKEES > JUNE 29-JULY 1 The Haloes (aka the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) take on the Evil Empire at Angel Stadium. 2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com 3 DALAI LAMA’S 80TH > JULY 5-7 The 14th Dalai Lama celebrates his birthday with a three-day Global Compassion Summit. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com
4 DANCING WITH THE STARS > JULY 15 Perfect Ten Tour Live! caps the ABC show’s 10th season. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org 5 O.C. FAIR > JULY 17-AUG. 16 Event turns 125 with “One Big Party” featuring rides, concerts (Willie Nelson, the Offspring), livestock competitions, wine and wacky deep-fried foods. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, ocfair.com
BONOBOS You can't actually buy anything on display at Bonobos Guideshop, now at Fashion Island. What you can do is choose among its hundreds of menswear style combinations, get fitted and have the virtually custom clothing—pants and shirts as well as ties—delivered to you within two to five days. An e-commerce retailer since 2007, Bonobos introduced its brick-and-mortar concept in 2011. 949.230.9695 CHANEL The house of designer Karl Lagerfeld has a newly expanded home—a beyondfabulous home of more than 9,000 square feet presenting a series of salons with suite-like dressing rooms. Find Chanel's iconic readyto-wear, handbags, shoes, jewelry (below), accessories and watches amid abstract gold wall panels, silk curtains and stunning rock-crystal chandliers. 714.754.7455
6 U.S. OPEN OF SURFING > JULY 27-AUG. 2 Vans pro surfing competition, world’s largest, includes skate and BMX events and a beachlifestyle festival. Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, vansusopenofsurfing.com 7 SHANIA TWAIN > AUG. 19 The country-pop queen is among the best-selling artists of all time. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2400, hondacenter.com
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THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, ATTRACTIONS, SHOPPING AND DINING
DINING
Roku’n Rolls Uni udon, premium tofu three ways and Prime rib-eye steak Japonais cooked over Bincho charcoal are but a few of the intriguing items offered at Fashion Island’s new Sushi Roku. This marks its sixth location; the first, which opened in West Hollywood in 1997, was an early proponent of a contemporary Cal-Japanese cuisine using unexpected ingredients. Siblings include a dozen restaurants and lounges in Los Angeles, among them BOA Steakhouse and Katana, renowned for their sleek design and superhip vibe. As the name suggests, sushi, notably its signature handrolls, and sashimi play a starring role. Fluke kumquat sashimi is dressed with yuzu vinaigrette; the Katana roll features spicy tuna and shrimp tempura topped with tuna and yellowtail. Happy-hour bites start at $3; an A-5 Japanese wagyu beef “Toban-yaki” appetizer runs $64. The sake selection is huge; cocktails include the scotch-and-sake Salary Man. p. 44
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4th Street Market in Santa Ana
HALL-LELUJAH! Food halls are all the rage—and with good reason. Not to be confused with food courts—areas in shopping centers where fastfood-chain outlets are located—food halls are stand-alone collections of vendors with somewhat higher gastronomic aspirations. New in downtown Santa Ana’s East End is 4th Street Market, featuring more than a dozen foodie tenants, among them three concepts from innovative Playground owner-chef Jason Quinn—PFC for chicken, Wagyu Chuck for burgers and Recess for cocktails on tap—as well as Noodle Tramp and Electric City Butcher. The yearling Anaheim Packing House is a superb collection of nearly two dozen destinations within a destination offering truly distinctive fare. Consider Adya for Cal-Indian, Black Sheep for artisan grilled-cheese sandwiches, Hammer Bar and Tool Shed for cocktails and Dark 180 for sophisticated hot chocolate. Looking for some of the county’s best fried chicken? We nominate Georgia’s for Southern-style at Anaheim Packing House and Quinn’s reinvented version at PFC—spicy, with a lime-agave drizzle—at 4th Street Market. p. 49
N2 Ice Cream 4TH STREET MARKET, ANNE WATSON
I scream, you scream, we all scream for … liquid nitrogen! Ice cream made to order in single servings using liquid nitrogen (N2) was an oddity when Creamistry opened in Irvine two years ago; another opens at the Triangle in August. Choose from 50 flavors—such as Birthday Cake and Roasted Black Sesame— plus mix-ins and toppings. 3972 Barranca Parkway, Irvine,
949.777.6627; The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa; creamistry.com À la Minute uses liquid nitrogen with organic farmers-market ingredients to hand-craft intriguing flavors such as strawberry balsamic and chocolate lavender; it also offers affogato and ice cream sandwiches.
117 N. Glassell St., Orange, alaminuteicecream.com Innovative Tempo Urban Kitchen—think short-rib chocolate tacos—brings meals to a finish with a flourish with flavor-of-theday N2 ice cream prepared tableside. 1060 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.529.2900, tempourbankitchen.com
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WHERE NOW / orange
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ARTS + CULTURE
Reed L. Shannon as Michael Jackson (center) with the Jackson 5 in Motown the Musical
Musicals About Music
Motown the Musical, June 16-28, is the true American-dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy: his journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson and Smokey Robinson. Motown shattered barriers with classics such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenally successful The Phantom of the Opera—stopping here Aug. 5-16 as part of its new North American tour—has been hailed by critics as “bigger and better than ever before.” The show boasts new special effects, scenic and lighting designs, staging and choreography.
GALLERIES ON VIEW Even when its famed summer art festivals—Festival of Arts, Art-AFair and Sawdust Festival—aren’t in session, and even when they are, there is plenty more art on display in Laguna Beach. In fact, the Festival of Arts now has a satellite gallery, foaSouth (1006 S. Coast Hwy., 949.494.1145). It’s showing naturethemed prints by Mariko Ishii (image on p. 56) through July 13. High-profile modern-art specialist Peter Blake Gallery (435 Ocean Ave., 949.376.9994) displays
sculptures by Larry Bell, who continues to be smitten with glass cubes, through June 20. (Factoid: Larry Bell is one of the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover cutouts.) “Lost in Translation Too,” through June at JoAnne Artman Gallery (326 N. Coast Hwy., 949.510.5481), showcases four international artists whose homeculture influences transcend barriers of geography and language. All three venues host additional exhibitions through summer.
Larry Bell, Cube 15 (2006) at Peter Blake Gallery
MOTOWN, JOAN MARCUS. CUBE, GABRIEL SERI, COURTESY LARRY BELL STUDIO AND FRANK LLOYD GALLERY
Two Broadway shows at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa put music center stage.
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WHERE NOW / orange
county ATTRACTIONS
Diamonds Are for Disney
Crystal Cinderella slipper with topazand-diamond pendant, a Disneyland Diamond Days sweepstakes prize.
county
COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT
WHERE NOW / orange
Marking 60 years of magic, the Diamond Celebration at the Disneyland Resort unveils three nighttime spectaculars as well as diamond decor for Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland and Carthay Circle Theatre in Disney California Adventure. Streets surrounding the parks sparkle, too, and there are enhancements to the Matterhorn (a scarier Abominable Snowman!), Peter Pan’s Flight and Haunted Mansion attractions. Entertainment after dark—Disney’s “kiss goodnight”— includes the “Paint the Night” parade along Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland, with projection mapping technology unprecedented for Disney, and dazzling new effects in the “Disneyland Forever” fireworks show. The new “World of Color” show at California Adventure tells the story of Walt Disney and the Happiest Place on Earth through fountains, film, music and visual surprises. p. 56
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Onquestyle brings you to Rodeo without the drive. Orange County’s Premier Luxury Consignment Boutique
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Largest High-End Designer Resale Store in Southern California 2900 East Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, CA 92625 | 949.717.7795 | onquestyle.com
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LINES IN THE
SAND N E W P O R T B E AC H ’ S H O U S E S O F SW I M
Swimwear hot spot Newport Beach boasts numerous boutiques that carry a variety of lines; sophisticated Diane’s at Corona del Mar Plaza and expansive SwimSpot at Fashion Island come to mind. Offerings at fashion boutiques such as Southern California fave Trina Turk also feature stunning swimsuits. Here we spotlight a trio of swim boutiques—Letarte and Seafolly, both at Fashion Island, and Beach Bunny, on Coast Highway—that, like the great houses of fashion, carry but a single label. —Zoe Lorenzo 14 WHEREOC.COM SUMMER 2015
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Letarte by Lisa Cabrinha, Potted Pineapple Ombre Beach Dress ($254)
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Seafolly, Goddess Slide Triangle Bikini Top ($72) and Goddess Mini Hipster Bikini Pant ($62). (Below) Beach Bunny, Madagascar Glam Triangle Top ($130).
COURTESY LETARTE AND BEACH BUNNY. SEAFOLLY, ENRIQUE BADULESU
(Opposite) Letarte by Lisa Cabrinha, Sangria Waves Triangle Bikini ($196) and Sangria Waves Tie-Front Tunic ($288).
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THIS PAGE AND LAUREL CANYON, CHLOE EPSTEIN. CAVE, BENCH AND CAR, JOSEPH ELLIOTT
Coolest Coastal Hikes Laguna Beach offers some of the county’s best trails—and they usually come with ocean breezes. By JOSEPH ELLIOTT
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OPPOSITE AND LAUREL CANYON, CHLOE EPSTEIN. CAVE, BENCH AND CAR, JOSEPH ELLIOTT
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Dripping Cave and, right, Laurel Canyon. Opposite: Valido Trail
HERE ARE GREAT nature walks along the coast. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve come to mind. Elevation gain: near zero. Difficulty: Easiest. You could spend all day slogging up Santiago Peak, aka Saddleback Mountain, the county’s high point at 5,689 feet—but you’d never want to do that in the summer. Elevation gain: 4,000 feet. Difficulty: Difficult. Then there are the county’s ideal hikes. All in the Laguna Beach area, these offer elevation gain and points of interest, can be done in a morning and, given their proximity to the coast, are also the coolest—literally. Find the Valido, Car Wreck and Dripping Cave trails in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park; the Laurel CanyonWillow Canyon Loop in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park; and Moro Canyon in Crystal Cove State Park. For those with limited time, the Valido Trail—easily accessed, a mile round trip and doable in well under an hour—is the county’s best. Park on Valido Drive in Laguna Beach near West Street; the trailhead is between two residences. Elevation gain is 400 feet; the trail gets steeper as it goes. Cross a creek near the start; turn left at Aliso Summit Trail; and mount the log steps to the summit, where you find a bench and incredible coastal vistas. Retrace your steps. Car Wreck Trail is far more challenging. Even the drive to the trailhead offers hefty vertical gain! Park at Alta Laguna Park, aka Top of the World, amid architecturally
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stunning homes. As that name suggests, this hike, unlike most, starts at the top, and it’s far easier on the way down than the way back up. It’s steep. Begin along West Ridge Trail; turn right at Mathis Canyon Trail; and turn right on Car Wreck and descend. Near the bottom are the ruins of a vehicle, variously identified as a 1946 Dodge and a 1947 Volvo, embedded just off the trail, and it is mind-boggling to imagine how it got there. Head back up. Distance: About 3 miles round trip. Or turn left onto Oak Grove Trail, then right onto Dripping Cave Trail, both easy, and add another 2 miles round trip. They lead past smaller caves to Dripping Cave, or Robbers Cave, used by thieves, says a sign, after robbing stages or stealing livestock. The 3.5-mile Laurel Canyon-Willow Canyon Loop begins at a small lot on the west side of Laguna Canyon Road south of El Toro Road. The trail leads past old sycamores and sandstone outcroppings, scenes that might have attracted the early California Impressionists, to the top of 50-foot Laurel Canyon Falls—unfortunately seasonal—which out and back makes for a pleasant 1.5-mile jaunt. To continue, turn left onto the Laguna Spur, right onto Willow Canyon Trail and up to Bommer Ridge; glimpse the ocean in one direction and take in Santiago Peak, big as day, in the other. Descend via the Willow Canyon fire road. All trails at Crystal Cove State Park, north of Laguna Beach, offer spectacular ocean views. Take El Moro Canyon Road from Coast Highway to the ranger station. Easiest is the 3-mile Moro Canyon out-and-back.
The top of Valido Trail and, below, Car Wreck Trail
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WILD
More serious than ever about sourcing locally, chefs move beyond farmers markets—trekking into local canyons and foothills. By ROGER GRODY
The “farm to table” movement made the use of local, seasonal ingredients de rigueur, with some chefs even recognizing local farms and ranches on their menus. But an increasing obsession with sourcing has resulted in chefs traversing the local wilderness to find the essence of the Orange County terroir. Foraging, which takes California cuisine to its radical extreme, is a hot new trend. FORAGING FOR WILD MUSHROOMS has always been an accepted practice, but now chefs scour the wilderness for an entire menu of ingredients. The godfather of foraging is chef René Redzepi, whose Copenhagen restaurant, Noma, has earned a pair of Michelin stars and has been repeatedly ranked best in the world by Great Britain’s influential Restaurant magazine. Largely credited with making foraging fashionable, the resourceful chef treks through Danish forests for untraditional ingredients such as moss, pinecones and even ants, transforming them into exquisite dishes that attract foodies from around the globe. Foraging has caught on in Southern California, where foothills, canyons and even the brush beneath freeway overpasses offer a surprisingly rich selection of wild herbs, flowers and berries. After first gaining traction in Los Angeles, foraging and its harvests are now showcased in some of Orange County’s finest restaurants. Chef Raj Dixit at Stonehill Tavern (p. 36) favors hand-picked uni; Eric Samaniego uses foraged morel mushrooms in his improvisational fare at Little Sparrow (p. 34). Great foraged products can be imported from Oregon or Northern California, but the wild bounty here generates the most excitement.
Chefs who used to spend their time sourcing ingredients at farmers markets may now also be found hiking through the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, collecting wild herbs and blossoms that most of us would ignore as weeds. Supporting those chefs is a growing cottage industry with professional foragers who deliver their distinctive harvests to kitchens all over the county. Justin Miller, executive chef at Costa Mesa’s Pizzeria Ortica (p. 43), insists there is more than simply a romantic attraction to discovering local wild products. “Foraged food quite simply tastes better,” he says. “I’m so sick and tired of bland-tasting food that looks the same.” Foragers expand the horizons of both chefs and diners: “This is where we’re able to add variety to the menu and surprise our guests with something new.” Miller recently offered gnudi (ricotta gnocchi) with ortica (stinging nettles) and fiddlehead ferns from a foraging company active along the Oregon-Washington border. He finished the dish, a special, with asparagus, butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The chef has also turned out a bruschetta with morel and abalone mushrooms, lemon, Taleggio cheese and marjoram. But Miller admits he doesn’t venture into the woods
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himself. “I’m more of an urban forager,” he says with a chuckle. “I steal my neighbor’s rosemary from time to time.” Some local chefs have been introduced to foraging by environmental activist Joel Robinson, founder of Naturalist for You, a nonprofit dedicated to educating city dwellers about the wilderness in their own backyards. Believing O.C. residents to be blessed with accessible expanses of protected environments such as the Cleveland National Forest, Robinson says his goal is “to connect people emotionally to these places.” Inspired by his own childhood experiences in the brush, the county native says, “If we have any chance of living sustainably, people will have to place a greater value on nature.” Since foraging has gained momentum in the culinary world, Robinson has taken more than a dozen professional chefs into the wild. Introduced greens—nonindigenous species either intentionally or inadvertently introduced—are everywhere, Robinson says, noting that some even grow out of cracks in freeway pavement. Wild greens include miner’s lettuce, pigweed, mallow, various mustards and sow thistle. Robinson describes edible flowers —such as nasturtium, some poppies and lilies—and berries—elderberries, coffee berries and lemonade berries—as equally plentiful. The naturalist also advises chefs on the versatility of the wild ingredients, explaining, for instance, that the seeds, stalk, leaves and flowers of the whipple yucca can all be used in the kitchen. Limited by scarcity or regulatory quotas, harvests of some products are so small that their uses are relegated to garnishes, or their essence is infused into a sauce. One of Robinson’s challenges is to balance commercial motivations with environmental responsibility; he appreciates the sudden attention from chefs but is wary of the potential impact. “Some chefs are into this because it’s trendy and gets publicity,” he says, admonishing against overharvesting to the point of degrading either the ecology or aesthetics. One high-profile culinary professional introduced to foraging by Robinson is Jason Quinn, the chef-owner of Playground in downtown Santa Ana (p. 36). “All chefs have access to the very same pool of ingredients…. I can get anything I want delivered
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tomorrow,” says Quinn. “Or I can decide to give my guests a different experience by finding a wild grape that grows in a single place one month of the year.” Doing so can afford a restaurant a genuine sense of place. Taking chefs’ obsession with local artisanal farms to its logical extreme, he says: “There is no better farmer than nature.” Quinn does not feel confident foraging through Trabuco Canyon without the assistance of an expert such as Robinson but is adept at recognizing eligible species. “Once you see wild fennel growing out there, you begin seeing it everywhere, even driving down the freeway,” he says. He’s used foraged black walnuts to make walnut butter, indigenous grapes for jam, and wild wheat and acorns for bread. Stinging nettles harvested in the great outdoors have gone into a puree that complements grilled mackerel; he’s combined eggs with wild herbs and puffed wild buckwheat. “Frankly, the difference in taste between wild fennel and the product delivered to my door is not that great. But using the wild product gives you a real sense of integrity,” Quinn says. The 28-year-old believes that for most chefs who have begun to dabble in it, foraging will be another passing fad— primarily because it is so labor-intensive. But he also expects the more dedicated enthusiasts to get better and better at it. Another notable local chef who learned the foraging basics from Robinson is Paul Chamberlin, who owns Boldo Bol (p. 49), one of many new eateries contributing to the sizzling downtown Santa Ana dining scene. Boldo is a South American herb that resembles a bay leaf and is popular with some local Latinos for making tea.
into the creation of dishes highlighted by these ingredients,” he says. “And they think it’s really cool that we’re foragers.” Chef Joshua Severson of Selanne Steak Tavern (p. 48)—founded by Teemu Selänne, the NHL superstar who recently concluded his career with the Anaheim Ducks—appreciates the absolute freshness of foraged products. “I don’t see it as a trend but more as a refinement to a chef’s culinary bag,” he says. “Wild foraging necessitates finding these great products in their natural environment.” Because the difference between delicious and deadly, particularly among mushrooms, can be nearly imperceptible, Severson concedes it takes considerable knowledge and experience to forage. Severson says that, despite the name, there’s much more than steak on the menu at Selanne, which combines a Scandinavianchic dining room with a more casual tavern. After all, its celebrity owner’s favorite is salmon, and the Seattle-raised chef procures ultrafresh ingredients: He uses miner’s lettuce in a lobster salad, foraged morels with English pea soup and short ribs, and cooks with wild asparagus and ramps when available. Three Seventy’s Adams enjoys trekking into the foothills himself. “Foraging for ingredients is a terrific mini-eco-adventure,” he says. “You never know exactly what you’re going to find, where you’re going to find it or how much you’ll find.” His recent excursions into Santiago Canyon and Laguna Canyon have yielded miner’s lettuce, wild sage, wild fennel and stinging nettles. Selanne’s Severson is less ambitious: “I would love to try it sometime,” he says, “but for now, I’ll leave it to the professionals.” Greg Daniels, the innovative executive chef and partner at Haven Gastropub in Orange (p. 36), is not a regular forager but can occasionally be found hiking through Silverado Canyon seeking ingredients. He has prepared an entire meal out of foraged items, featuring smoked quail over local pine needles, and incorporates wild watercress and thyme leaves into tasting menus. He finds that ensuring consistency of quality—as well as harvesting quantities that make economic sense—can be challenging, but he definitely sees value in foraging. “It gives you a taste of what’s actually there in your microclimate,” Daniels says. “I like to take my chefs with me…. It’s an opportunity to get out of the kitchen but still be culinary-minded and learning.”
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Greg Daniels of Haven Gastropub, wild acorns
Chamberlin, who changes his menu several times a day, specializes in generous “bols” (bowls) of grain, beans or vegetables optionally layered with free-range chicken or fish caught just off the coast. The socially conscious spot has partnerships with community gardens, scouting troops and a yard-farming cooperative, through which county-certified amateur growers see their backyard harvests make it onto the menu. “We want to get as close as possible to native California,” says Chamberlin, who uses an herb-drying rack in the restaurant to produce Native American-style smudge sticks. “We do that to try and bring the mojo back,” he quips. Chamberlin’s sister-in-law is international foraging authority Leda Meredith; he consults with her when questions arise about culinary uses of unfamiliar plants he discovers while mountain biking or hiking through Silverado Canyon. Though Bolbo Bol relies more heavily on urban foraging and community gardening, it sometimes employs ingredients such as California sage, wild oregano and wild chamomile. Insisting foraging is not just a fad, Chamberlin reminds us that “when all else fails, you can still live off the land.” Chef-restaurateur Ryan Adams of Laguna Beach’s Three Seventy Common (p. 36) and Santa Ana’s The North Left (p. 36) is serious about procuring the finest local ingredients and appreciates the connection to the natural environment reinforced through foraging. “I like the fact that when you’re cooking with foraged ingredients, you’re very much a part of the life cycle of nature,” he says. As a chef constantly developing new experiences for his guests, Adams says that foraged ingredients can be a challenge to work with but “allow guests to sample foods that they’re totally unfamiliar with.” He dismisses the idea that foraging is a fleeting trend: “This is the logical extension of farmto-table. You’re using hyper-local ingredients that are highly seasonal and at the same time reducing the carbon footprint.” Adams describes wild fennel as slightly sweeter and a little more fibrous; at Three Seventy Common he adds the fronds to a bone-marrow presentation and the pollen to a carrot salad. The chef also forages for miner’s lettuce and nasturtium, which go into his “steel-cut rosoto,” a riff on risotto that uses oats instead of rice and incorporates Manchego cheese and escargots. Adams reports a positive response from guests. “They appreciate the work that goes
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shop + dine + explore
laguna beach
Cheyne Walls Fine Art Photographs
Laguna Beach
3251 Laguna Canyon Road – Art Studio H5 949.370.5643 cheynewalls.com
Southern California’s premier coastal destination, located in the heart of ‘The OC’.
Wallis’ newest series, the Island Collection, as well as limited-edition fine-art nature photographs, are on display and available for purchase. By appointment.
Event Calendar
June 20 | Fete de la Musique Presented by the Laguna Beach Sister Cities Association; 949.492.0883; lagunabeachsistercities.com 1 pm Opening ceremonies, Cobblestones at Main Beach; 1:30 pm Performances, Various downtown locations; 4 pm Closing musical ceremony. Event is free. June 26-Aug. 30 | Art-A-Fair 949.494.4514; art-a-fair.com 777 Laguna Canyon Road Discover 125 distinguished artists at this juried fine-art festival. Enjoy live music Th-Su, outdoor cuisine at Tivoli Too!, daily art workshops, and watching artists create. June 26-Aug. 30 | 49th Annual Sawdust Art Festival 949.494.3030; sawdustartfestival.org 935 Laguna Canyon Road Experience the creativity of more than 200 local artists, complimentary art activities for children and adults, and live entertainment.
Bubbles of Laguna Bath & Body Shop
Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry
Create your own perfume, bath salts, sachets, lotions, bubble bath and much more! Mention this ad for a free gift with your purchase.
352 N. Coast Hwy. 949.715.0953 adamneeley.com Acclaimed jeweler Adam Neeley brings art to fine jewelry. Offering distinctive, everyday styles, custom engagement rings, and one-of-a-kind couture jewelry.
Bareti Jewelry Boutique
Marine Room Tavern
Located in the Hotel Laguna 445 S. Coast Hwy. 949.494.1417 bubblesoflaguna.com
MELANIE GREGG
July 5-Aug. 31 | Festival of Arts 949.494.1145; lagunafestivalofarts.org 650 Laguna Canyon Road California’s longest-running outdoor fine-art exhibition. The show features the original artwork by 140 awardwinning artists, as well as jazz concerts, wine and chocolate pairings, and art tours. July 8-Aug. 31 | Pageant of the Masters 800.487.3378; pageanttickets.com 650 Laguna Canyon Road 90 minutes of tableaux vivants (“living pictures”), incredibly faithful re-creations of classical and contemporary works of art, with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces.
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490 S. Coast Hwy. 949.715.3140 bareti.com Bareti presents celebrated international jewelry designers, using precious metals and precious stones to create unique pieces that offer day-today and special occasions glamour.
214 Ocean Ave. 949.494.3027 marineroomtavern.com Established in 1934, this historical bar just marked 81 years! Home to over 150 Whisk(e)ys. Live music performances 7 days a week.
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EXPLORING
Metro Cities
COSTA MESA, A RETAIL, CULTURAL AND BUSINESS CENTER, ADJOINS IRVINE AND SANTA ANA, THE COUNTY SEAT.
➺Where is the heart of Orange County? Irvine, home of the historic Irvine Ranch, is O.C.’s financial Costa Mesa
On one side of Bristol Street is South Coast Plaza, whose annual sales of $1.5 billion are highest among the nation’s shopping destinations. On the other is the county’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. Today, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. The state-designated tourist attraction has the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers. Chanel unveils a stunning expansion; Dolce & Gabbana opens presently. Excellent dining options include Marché Moderne and Din Tai Fung. It’s an easy walk to the “arts campus,” the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, South Coast Repertory and, in the not-too-distant future, Orange County Museum of Art. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts, built in 1986 mainly with Segerstrom money on Segerstrom land, includes 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall, presenting a range of genres including dance and Broadway musicals, and the newer Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall, a 2,000seat facility designed by Cesar Pelli that hosts events as diverse as tributes to Mahler and Paul McCartney. There are two intimate
venues within the venues, Founders Hall and Samueli Theater, respectively. Renowned South Coast Repertory, with three stages inside its David Emmes and Martin Benson Theatre Center, opened at its present location in 1978, also with Segerstrom family donations. Among Town Center’s professional buildings is one of the nation’s premier collections of outdoor art. Start, or end, at the 1.6-acre California Scenario (near Anton Boulevard) by sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Metro Pointe and South Coast Plaza Village—whose movie theater offers top foreign films—are a crosswalk away. All three centers are accessible from North or South County hotels by dedicated taxi and motor coach service, and Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner delivers visitors to the Santa Ana train station. To the west is the South Coast Collection of design showrooms such as Design Within Reach and Pirch. Of note to foodies is Surfas Culinary District, Arc restaurant and the farmers market on Saturdays. The hip OC Mix features 30 vendors including Stoned Jewelry boutique, the Mixing Glass for cocktail ware and Taco María for sophisticated chicano fare. South on Bristol are The Lab and The Camp. The Lab has the kinds of shops you’d likely find on L.A.’s hip Melrose Avenue; recent additions include Heirlooms and Hardware and Klein Epstein & Parker for
men. Opposite is the Camp, set amid woods, aluminum and piped-in sounds of crickets. Dining options include Old Vine Café, Taco Asylum for unusual tacos and Umami Burger. Dine-and-play center The Triangle offers bowling at Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl and dining at Black Knight Gastro Lounge, Saddle Ranch Chop House and La Vida Cantina. The O.C. Fair & Event Center hosts events year-round, the county fair and concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre in summer.
Santa Ana
Hip, arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Grand Central Art Center. A centerpiece of the East End along historic Fourth Street is the Yost Theater, now a concert venue. The dining scene may be the county’s most exciting, thanks to Little Sparrow, Playground and North Left. The bar scene—we favor Lola Gaspar—is burgeoning, too. Historical highlights include the Queen Anne-style home of Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle, and the Old County Courthouse, a setting for numerous movies. Bowers Museum, founded in 1936, offers blockbuster exhibitions mounted with the world’s major museums. Visitors can also view pre-Columbian artifacts, Pacific Island art or artifacts from American whalers two centuries back; a real gem is its permanent exhibit of local history.
DISCOVERY CUBE, DHRUMIL DESAIW; OC MIX, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; IRVINE SPECTRUM, EDWIN SANTIAGO
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 hands-down the county’s heart and its cultural soul.
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Giant Wheel at Irvine Spectrum Center. (Opposite from left) Discovery Cube science Center in Santa Ana, OC Mix at South Coast Collection in Costa Mesa.
Discovery Cube science center has been spectacularly expanded; its namesake tilting cube is perched seemingly inches off Interstate 5. Westfield MainPlace houses Macy’s, Nordstrom and 200 shops; a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball court and open-air swimming pool is new. Intimate Santa Ana Zoo, in Prentice Park, is home to 250 species; highlights include a primate exhibit, African aviary and children’s zoo.
Irvine
Its Giant Wheel can be seen for miles along the 5, 405 and 133 freeways. But it’s the Irvine Spectrum Center’s 150 shops, many of them entertainment-related, restaurants such as Cucina Enoteca for Cal-Ital and Capital Seafood for Chinese, and the nation’s most visited movie complex that together draw more visitors annually than Disneyland. Irvine Barclay Theatre, at UC Irvine, presents an impressive roster of music, dance and dramatic events; there’s not a bad seat in the house. Nearby is the UCI Arboretum (Jamboree Road and Campus Drive, 949.824.5833). San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (Michelson Drive between Jamboree Road and Culver Drive, 949.261.7963) offers 10 miles of trails through coastal fresh-water marshlands. The Irvine Museum houses Joan Irvine Smith’s collection of California Impressionist art on the ground floor of an office building. The one developed corner of the Orange County Great Park offers a farmers market, an arts complex and a carousel; you can ride 400 feet up in the iconic tethered orange balloon. 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.
Irvine offers a relatively problem-free world carved from the Irvine Co.’s land holdings. The vibe extends to John Wayne Airport, whose pleasant ambience and ease of departure and arrival make it vastly superior to LAX.
Tustin
Forbes magazine recently listed Tustin in its Top 25 places “to live well.” The city, known for its fine parks and its century-old trees, has preserved many of its 1870s buildings along Main Street and El Camino Real. The District at Tustin Legacy, at Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, is a sprawling shopping center. Draws include The Winery
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and Bluewater Grill restaurants, sip-and-paint venue Pinot’s Palette, a cineplex, and bowling at Bowlmor. The nearby twin hangars are 1,000 feet long, 17 stories tall and have five acres of open space within each. 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. Taps Fish House & Brewery is new. The Marconi Automotive Museum (714.258.3001) displays 80 vehicles, notably Ferraris and historic open-wheel race cars. For bold items, see the where guide listings. For neighborhood maps, see page 79.
/ cooking from the hip
Thai One On, Jamaican Me Crazy and the Mo’rockin’ Spice Trail—Moroccan-themed, of course—are among the many cooking classes at Hipcooks, located, appropriately enough, amid the hip restaurants of downtown Santa Ana. A Romantic Dinner for Two is another. Suzana Pinkerton offers a fun environment and hands-on instruction for all skill levels. Participants prepare dishes with a focus on healthful, fresh, organic and local ingredients. Every class ends with a wine tasting and dinner party. Kitchen tools used in class are available for purchase in the adjacent store. 125 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.479.0855, oc.hipcooks.com
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EXPLORING
The Coast
THE COUNTY’S PRIME BEACH COMMUNITIES INCLUDE NEWPORT BEACH, BALBOA, CORONA DEL MAR AND HUNTINGTON BEACH.
➺Newport Beach offers the county’s most pleasant shopping destination, countless fine restaurants and Newport Beach
Newport Beach and its environs have been called California’s Riviera. Sandy 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 are anchors at elegant and relaxed shopping destination Fashion Island. Bonobos Guideshop for men and Sushi Roku restaurant are new. Island Cinema offers leather seats and wine service. The Orange County Museum of Art, also in Newport Center, focuses on 20th century California artists, offers thought-provoking shows and throws hip fetes. 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 equipment from Newport Aquatic Center (949.646.7725). At Newport Dunes, Moe B’s Watersports (949.729.1150) rents kayaks, pedal boats and electric boats. Newport Beach boasts the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, along Coast Highway, is lined with dining destinations—notably The Winery restaurant and wine bar and Pizzeria Mozza—as well as luxury-car showrooms and yacht clubs.
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 boat 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. The action never stops around Newport Pier, off Newport Boulevard on McFadden Square. The Dory Fishing Fleet leaves soon after the bars close in the wee hours of the morn; you can visit the open-air fish market after the sun comes up. The fleet, begun in 1889, is the last beach-side fishing cooperative of its kind in the United States.
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, so don’t go in the water unless you really know what you’re doing. Watching is fun enough.
On the harbor side of Balboa Peninsula are the Balboa Pavilion and a Fun Zone, marking 75 years, whose few remaining rides include a Ferris wheel. Try a custom-dipped Balboa Bar or frozen banana. Take advantage of the Balboa Bay Front Webcam at Harbour House coffee shop; find a sunny seat outside, call friends in snowbound or humid states, have them log on to talesofbalboa.com and gloat! The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum is transforming itself into ExplorOcean. Balboa Pavilion, a 1905 gabled, cupolatopped structure, is the depot for boat excursions: harbor tours, whale-watching trips and Santa Catalina cruises. As classic pop-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 tightknit community featuring charming cottages, shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Marine Avenue is the island’s only nonresidential street.
Corona del Mar
Heading south along Coast Highway takes you past Corona del Mar Plaza, where upscale destinations include Sienna Brown and Savory Spice Shop as well as Sprinkles Ice Cream and new Beauty Collection.
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gorgeous golf, not to mention its most coveted real estate. Along the coast, you’ll find wide sandy beaches, the world’s largest pleasure-boat harbor, renowned piers and Surf City USA.
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Corona del Mar, whose streets are named for flowers, has expansive beaches and some of the country’s most expensive real estate. On East Coast Highway, just south of MacArthur Boulevard, is Sherman Library & Gardens, offering 2,000 plant species on two landscaped acres. Consider a repast at Café Jardin or the Tea Garden Crêperie. Coast Highway is lined with elegant design showrooms, rug dealers and boutiques. To find Corona del Mar State Beach, head south on Marguerite from Coast Highway, turn right on Ocean Boulevard, then follow signs to the parking lot below. You’ll find bodysurfing, volleyball, fire pits and facilities. Picturesque Little Corona Beach is just south. South of Corona del Mar is Newport Coast. Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers boutiques from At Ease for Men to Z Collection and Babette’s, Bluefin and Mastro’s Ocean Club restaurants. Nearby are Crystal Cove State Park, with miles of sandy coves and miles of trails, and gorgeous Pelican Hill Golf Club.
Huntington Beach
Surf City USA has gotten more sophisticated since 1963, when the Jan and Dean hit Surf City topped charts. Though Huntington Beach retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks, beachtown personality, shops along Main Street, fine-dining options and luxury hotels have resulted in a dramatic transformation. The action is near the water. Main Street is a promenade with lots of surf-wear and beachwear shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Tenants at the Strand, at Pacific Coast Highway and Fifth Street, include Forever 21, Rip Curl and Bruxie.
Newport Beach Civic Center. (Opposite from left) Balboa Bar on Balboa Island; Huntington Beach Pier.
Adjacent to Huntington Beach Pier Plaza are restaurants including Duke’s and Sandy’s HB; the plaza hosts art shows, live music and farmers markets. A statue of a surfer at Coast Highway and Huntington Street captures the town’s spirit. The area offers three beaches: Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach are popular for surfing and volleyball as well as for fire rings and nighttime weenie roasts. Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve (714.840.1575), near Warner Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway, offers 200 species of migratory birds in a salt-marsh setting with a 1.5-mile loop trail.
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Inland, at Talbert Avenue and Goldenwest Street, is 350-acre Huntington Central Park; the park encompasses Shipley Nature Center (714.842.4772), an equestrian center, a Frisbee golf course, two “lakes” and the city’s Central Library (714.842.4481)—which has the largest children’s library in the state. 5 Points Plaza is a neighborhood center with tenants such as Loft, Vans, Cloudmover Day Spa and new Go Salad. Draws at Tuscanthemed Bella Terra shopping destination include outdoor sports specialist REI and Solita for excellent tacos and margaritas. For bold items, see the where guide listings. For neighborhood maps, see pages 78-79.
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Debra Huse Gallery, on Balboa Island’s main thoroughfare, offers a soothing glimpse into the world of plein-air painting. The venue features works by some of California’s best contemporary practitioners of the style, who paint their outdoor subjects … outdoors! Those subjects include nearby landmarks such as Crystal Cove State Park and the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. Huse, one of whose works is seen here, and the other exhibiting artists host workshops for those who want to tap into their inner Monet. Enter around the corner on Balboa Avenue. 229 Marine Ave., Balboa, 949.723.6171, debrahusegallery.com
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EXPLORING
South Coast
COLORFUL CITIES ON OR NEAR THE COAST INCLUDE LAGUNA BEACH, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND DANA POINT.
➺Four of the county’s most historic cities are nestled into its southern corner: Laguna Beach, Dana Laguna Beach
It’s fitting that you pass Laguna College of Art + Design as you enter the county’s original art colony along Laguna Canyon Road. Admire the sculptures! In fact, it is easy to spend a day along the thoroughfare before ever entering the city proper, especially during the summer, when it hosts three art festivals— Festival of Arts, Art-A-Fair and the Sawdust Art Festival—and the renowned “living tableaux” presentation, Pageant of the Masters. Acclaimed Laguna Playhouse offers both comedic and profound fare year-round. Laguna Canyon Road becomes Broadway, then comes to a T at Main Beach and Coast Highway. Turn left toward downtown or right toward Laguna Art Museum and you’ll find galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Laguna Art Museum presents modern and contemporary art, mostly by California painters; often explores pop culture; and displays art from Laguna’s past, including lots of seascapes. Steps away are coastal vistas at Heisler Park and a stretch of Coast Highway called North Gallery Row, where you’ll find Hobrecht Sports Gallery (350 N. Coast Hwy., 949.945.3283) and Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953). Historical cottages dot the neighborhoods above. On a steep hillside is the Hortense Miller Garden (open by appointment, 22511 Allview Terrace, 949.497.3311, Ext. 426).
Main Beach gets action year-round. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a playground and a boardwalk popular with walkers and joggers, and one more major attraction: The beach is just across the street from scores of the shops and galleries that give the city its distinctive aura. Must-sees in the downtown heart of Laguna, aka the Village, include the sculpture garden at Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery (326 Glenneyre St., 888.972.5543). South along Coast Highway are dining options including Tortilla Republic, hockey great Teemu Selänne’s Selanne Steak Tavern, K’ya Bistro Bar at La Casa del Camino and posh Studio at the Montage.
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 only romantic spot” on the California coast, noting its “grandeur” and “solemnity.” The grandeur is still there, but you won’t find much solemnity along Harbor Drive, now bustling with boaters, diners, shoppers and those headed to see the tall clipper 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 in summer, Lobsterfest, a surf competition and outrigger racing. Busiest day of the year? Fourth of July, with fireworks launched from a barge. Make your way along Harbor Drive to the tide pools at the end of the harbor’s rocky ledge. Public benches are a stone’s throw from seals basking on sea-logged boulders; take in both the quiet beauty of the harbor and the roar of the surf against the rocks. Dana Point Harbor offers 2,500 slips for vessels of all sizes, three yacht clubs, a fishing pier and Dana Wharf Sportfishing, which also offers whale-watching trips. The Ocean Institute displays the Pilgrim, a fullsized replica of the brig on which Dana sailed, docked next to the fishing pier. Wharf highlights include the White Pelican for Native American jewelry (34475 Golden Lantern St., 949.240.1991) and the Harbor Grill and new Waterman’s Harbor seafooders. North of town are luxury hotels featuring superior dining—Stonehill Tavern at the St. Regis, and Raya at the Ritz-Carlton—and pristine Salt Creek Beach Park.
San Juan Capistrano
There’s no beach in this burg, but there’s plenty of history, style and charm. And there is no passing up a visit to Mission San Juan Capistrano, often credited with being the birthplace of Orange County. It was founded
MISSION, EDWIN SANTIAGO; GALLERY, ASHOK SINHA; BEACH, BENJAMIN GINSBERG
Point and San Clemente along Coast Highway, and nearby San Juan Capistrano. Whether for shopping, dining, history or just tantalizing poetic beauty, these small burgs have spectacular offerings.
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by Father Junipero Serra in 1776, the same year America was born. It took nine years to build its Great Stone Church, completed in 1806; it took just a 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 gold-leaf 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 the 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 Ramos House Café, in an 1881 board-and-batten house, offers an unforgettable breakfast. 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 east is Ronald W. Caspers
Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. (Opposite from left) Mission San Juan Capistrano; Laguna Beach gallery.
Wilderness Park (33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210).
San Clemente
La Casa Pacifica, President Richard Nixon’s “Western White House,” has long since been broken up into million-dollar homes by a private developer. But one historic home you can still see is 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 now the Cultural Center and Gardens, with galleries and a popular veranda. From the pier, the sun sets across the blue
G R E AT F I N D
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 right at the pier. The best shopping and dining are on Avenida del Mar, lined with antique stores and galleries, and El Camino Real, where you’ll find the wine-country cuisine of Vine. Talega Golf Club (949.369.6226), in the hills above the city, was designed with input from Masters champion Fred Couples. Sundried Tomato is among draws at Talega Village Center. For bold items, see listing in the where guide. For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 79.
/ objets de home
➺ Interior designer Lisa McDennon, known for bringing the outdoors in, offers the sort
of distinctive objects she likes to see in her clients’ homes at her yearling Nuance lifestyle boutique. They include Tippy Tippen’s bird soaps, each shaped like a blackbird and encasing a white ceramic bird signed by the artist; Lotta Jansdotter candles such as Swedish Martini (triple sec, tea and peach scents); onyx bowls carved from solid blocks of stone; and McDennon’s own line of fab-fabric decorative pillows. Plus fragrances and jewelry! All can be easily shipped. 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Suite 103A, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8833
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EXPLORING
North County
ANAHEIM, BUENA PARK, ORANGE AND FULLERTON OFFER THEME PARKS AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS.
➺Long before orange groves and Walt Disney shaped the landscape of Anaheim, and before Napa Valley
became a household name, German immigrants made the area California’s first wine country. It still fuels high times and joyful memories with world-class attractions that make it the gateway to endless fun. Making millions of dreams come true every year, Disneyland, now marking its 60th anniversary with a diamond celebration, is beloved by children of every age. Since Walt Disney opened the main gate in 1955, families have made the pilgrimage, starting on Main Street, U.S.A., and exploring eight lands from Frontierland to Toontown. Captured in countless vacation photographs, landmarks such as the Matterhorn, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and the Haunted Mansion— all recently enhanced—beckon even as new attractions such as the “Paint the Night” parade, which uses projected mapping technology unprecedented for Disney, debut. Sister park Disney California Adventure launched Cars Land, adding attractions— notably Radiator Springs Racers—inspired by the Disney-Pixar film Cars. Guests enter along Buena Vista Street, evoking the era when Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles; Carthay Circle Theatre houses an elegant restaurant. A new World of Color shows wows nightly with choreographed fountains, lights, lasers, music, film and animation that tell the story of Walt Disney. The thrills never end at California Screamin’, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Soarin’ Over California, a simulation of gliding above the Golden State. There’s no admission at adjacent Downtown Disney, but it takes restraint to
avoid splurging in the lively promenade’s shops, cafés and entertainment venues such as House of Blues, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and ESPN Zone. Eateries range from fast to fancy, but none outclasses Napa Rose in the dazzling Grand Californian Hotel. Shop, eat and play some more at Anaheim GardenWalk, a collection of shopping and dining options in an outdoor setting. For indoor entertainment, consider the new Billy Beez jungle-themed arena for kids, bowling at Bowlmor, viewing a movie at UltraStar Cinemas—some with motionsynced seats—or dancing at Heat Ultra Lounge. Nearby is The Ranch, among the county’s best restaurants, and its adjacent super-fun saloon, which is modeled on the late Crazy Horse. Boldface names and sports action are the lure at Honda Center, home for the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey team and L.A. KISS football team, host to touring acts such as Ariane Grande. Nearby is the region’s new transportation hub, the architecturally stunning Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). At Angel Stadium, “the Big A,” major-league baseball rules when the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play; arena rock acts such as U2 invade when the team’s on tour. Anaheim Convention Center now has a grand Grand Plaza.
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—try several! Muzeo is a small museum in the Carnegie Library building (1908). 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 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 restaurant, and shoppers wander through the California Marketplace; both enjoy the Independence Hall replica (1966). Inside the park, a daunting collection of roller coasters separates the bold from the bashful. Xcelerator rockets to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds. Silver Bullet turns riders upside down six times. GhostRider is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters. Less hair-raising are the High Sierra Ferris Wheel and kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. The interactive Voyage to the Iron Reef is new. Explore bygone eras without leaving Beach Boulevard. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament revisits an 11th century castle.
OLD TOWNE, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; DISNEY, IDRIS ERBA; ARTIC, DHRUMIL DESAI
Anaheim
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New ARTIC in Anaheim. (Opposite from left) Antique shop in Old Towne Orange; café at Disney California Adventure’s Cars Land
Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry starring Lipizzaner 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 Spanish galleon in an indoor lagoon.
Orange
Old Towne Orange is often used for movies and commercials, thanks to its diligently 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. To the east is Irvine Park; its petite 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 Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Families fall like pins for hip bowling alley Lucky Strike Lanes and flock to Thrill It Fun Center and Vans Skatepark. Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove— formerly known as Crystal Cathedral—is a must-tour for architecture buffs. Philip Johnson’s striking structure has 10,000 silver-tinted windows. Also there are Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope and Richard Meier’s International Center for Positive Thinking.
Fullerton
Most visitors to Fullerton, home of sprawling Cal State Fullerton, gravitate to the historic
core along Harbor Boulevard, with its endless supply of boutiques and watering holes. South of Commonwealth Avenue, a short stroll from the historic train station, are night spots and restaurants such as Matador Cantina. Significant sights nearby include the Fullerton Museum Center, offering dynamic exhibits including a gallery devoted to Leo Fender, native son and pioneer of the electric guitar. The museum offers maps pinpointing fine examples of architecture styles within walking distance. A short drive away, the stately Muckenthaler Cultural Center hosts varied design and art events and exhibits.
G R E AT F I N D
The Fullerton Arboretum at CSUF is a garden of delights, with streams, trails and a restored Victorian cottage. East in Yorba Linda is the birthplace of Richard Nixon. The tiny home and impressive rose garden are on the handsome grounds of the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum, a rich repository marking its 25th anniversary. Birch Street Promenade in neighboring Brea offers retailers, dining destinations such as Brunos Trattoria and stand-up comedy. New Lillie’s Q and Tempo Urban Kitchen restaurants are nearby. Brea Mall is huge. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 77.
/ flying lessons
➺ Acrobatic and circus classes at SwingIt Trapeze gymnastics center focus on the flying
trapeze, developing athletic skills and conquering fears using elements of fitness, performance, choreography and teamwork as well as grace and style. The initial two-hour lesson begins with instruction on hanging by the knees from the bars; by session’s end, you may have developed a swing and be caught by an instructor. Safety first, of course: Participants are hooked into safety lines any time their feet are off the ground; there is a large safety net as well. 350 W. Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, 877.979.4644, swingittrapeze.net
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Sophistication
by the
Sea
Offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Las Brisas is proud to serve the freshest seafood, exclusive offerings of wine & margaritas, and authentic cuisine of the Mexican Riviera.
361 Cliff Drive • Laguna Beach • 949.497.5434 • lasbrisaslagunabeach.com
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where
the guide SUMMER 2015
SPORTS
Halo Effect The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have plenty to be happy about. They are the reigning American League West Division Champions. Center fielder Mike Trout was named the league’s Most Valuable Player by unanimous vote and in April became the youngest player in Major League Baseball history to record 100 career home runs and 100 stolen bases; he is the second player to win both the American League MVP and the AllStar Game MVP in the same season. There’s news on the mound, too: Seeking greater strength and endurance, pitching ace Jered Weaver (right) has bulked up 25 pounds—more to love! p. 56
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Dining American
Guidelines Restaurants are listed by city on page 54. Map locators
A RESTAURANT Stylish, nostalgic spot with red-leather booths gives dishes such as beef Stroganoff, pot roast and scallops an of-the-moment treatment. Café/market adjacent. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 3334 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 $$$ Map N13
at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 77-79. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Nature Conservancy’s “favorite green restaurant” offers sophisticated fare and distinctive cocktails amid contemporary decor; the striking new citrus-and-herb garden terrace features fire “tornadoes.” L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4 ARC Chef Noah Blom’s “flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine (e.g., savory meatballs with garlic and whiskey, pig with black beans, maple and herbs) amid rustic-apothecary decor; superb cocktails use housemade everything. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12
Well Seasoned
Lawry’s Five Crowns is steeped in tradition. It is, after all, housed in a replica of England’s oldest inn and has a colorful local history as well. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, however, the spot, known for its prime rib, departs from tradition, nearly tripling its menu to include items such as the Baja stonecrab cakes (above); bringing back heritage items such as horseradish-crusted salmon; offering family-style options, among them a 2-pound Maine lobster with truffle fries; and adding a bar. Executive chef Steve Kling and Lawry’s corporate executive chef Ryan Wilson toast the jubilee with the Poppy Love cocktail, made with poppy liqueur and named for the street outside, and the Garden of Eden Gimlet. p. 40
BABETTE’S East Hampton eatery opens stylish West Coast location. Highlights of organic farm-to-table fare include barbecued tofu starter; imaginatively presented sake-soy-marinated rib-eye; and Billionaire cocktail. B, L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7962 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.9915 $$$ Map J16 BAYSIDE First-rate New American fare at stylish spot with limited view of harbor canals. A smashing new interior update and sprawling bar and patio draw exec lunches, romantic dinners and lazy brunches. Live jazz; art displays. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.1222 $$$ Map M14 THE Beachcomber Like a weatherworn yacht on Crystal Cove State Park beach. Roasted French feta; Prime flat iron steak with wild-mushroom-and-truffle mac; and Gimme S’mores! dessert. Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Shuttle from Los Trancos lot. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 Bistango Beautifully presented contemporary cuisine by chef Christopher Meehan, extensive wine list, impressively redone bar, jazz nightly. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.752.5222 $$$ Map K14 BOATHOUSE COLLECTIVE Sprawling yet hidden indoor-outdoor venue. Chef Matthieu Royer offers Asianinflected New American fare. Surfboards hang from the ceiling; on-site garden. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 1640 Pomona Ave, Costa Mesa, 949.646.3176 $$ Map H15
Index
American.................................34 Belgian......................................36 Brewpubs/Gastropubs.......36 California.................................38 Chinese....................................40 Continental.............................40 Eclectic......................................41 Food Halls................................49 French........................................41 Indian........................................42 International...........................42
Italian........................................42 Japanese..................................44 Mediterranean.......................44 Mexican/Latin.......................45 Quick Bites..............................49 Seafood....................................46 Steak..........................................47 Thai............................................48 Themed....................................48 Vietnamese.............................48
THE DECK Open-air spot serves beach fare and breezy cocktails steps from the sand. Tuscan kale Caesar; Vancouver Island king salmon. B, L, D (daily). Pacific Edge Hotel, 627 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6700 $$ Map I15 DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN & BAR Overlooks the sand. Octopus “a la plancha” taco, shareable whole fried Texas redfish; bourbons and whiskeys in the Stateroom Bar. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.715.7700 $$ 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 $$ Map K12, N12 The iron press Savory waffle sandwiches and local beers. L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). Anaheim Packing House, 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 657.220.9388; South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.426.8088 $ Map J12 Iva Lee’s Restaurant and lounge offers tasty interpretations of Southern and Creole cuisine. Music W-Sa. D (nightly). 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente, 949.361.2855 $$ Map south of F6 JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN David Wilhelm’s regional comfort faves: French Quarter boil; steak frites, grilled rib-eye with béarnaise; Bananageddon for two. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.388.8900 $$ Map K17
BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Popular, acclaimed spot offers creative “cuisine of the Americas.” Beerbattered Florida frog legs; chocolate cavatelli pasta with spicy pork ragout. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234 $$$ Map H15
Juliette Kitchen + Bar Superior New American fare and cocktails and adjacent wine merchant. The gifted chef is Daniel Hyatt. L (M-Sa), D (Tu-Sa). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map J13
CHAPTER ONE: THE MODERN LOCAL Hip librarythemed spot is always a page-turner; dishes such as the tomahawk Duroc pork chop and “culinary cocktails” add intriguing plot twists. Open until 2 am. L, D (daily). 227 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.352.2225 $$ Map H13
Leatherby’s Café Rouge Chic and sleek affair at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Cutting-edge cuisine and special menus themed to Broadway shows. Ideal for pre- or post-performance. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13
CLAIM JUMPER Craftsman-style spots offer rotisserie chicken, baby-back ribs, pot pie and six-layer Motherlode Cake. L, D (daily). Seven locations include South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.8479; 7971 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.523.3227; 2250 E. 17th St., Santa Ana, 714.836.6658 $$ Map J13, H8, G13
LILLIE’s Q New. Charlie McKenna opens an outpost of his Chicago eatery, bringing his ribs, which consistently win prestigious national barbecue competitions, plus other Southern fare and moonshine cocktails. L, D (daily). 240 S. Brea Blvd., Brea, 714.482.2001 $$$ Map A3
CROSSROADS AT HOUSE OF BLUES Southern hospitality and rafter-raising music. Faves: Aarón’s Citrus Chicken; shrimp and grits; jambalaya, lobster mac and cheese; St. Louis ribs. Gospel brunch on select Sundays. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.BLUE $$ Map I10
LITTLE SPARROW A landmark addition to the scene. Eric Samaniego’s improvisational bistro fare garners kudos from all quarters. Charcuterie made in-house; superb cocktails. Recently featured on Bravo TV’s “Best New Restaurant” series. Look for the CAFE sign on the corner. D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.265.7640 $$ Map G13
Carlos Salgado of Taco María in Costa Mesa (p. 46) is one of Food & Wine ’s 10 Best New Chefs in America; Bravo TV’s Best New Restaurant featured Little Sparrow in Santa Ana (p. 34).
Jim COLOMBO
SPOTLIGHT
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Fresh Italian Cuisine ● Happy Hour ● Banquets ● Full-Service Catering ● Kid Friendly
South Coast Plaza Village
(714) 751-7153
3800 South Plaza Drive Santa Ana, CA 92704
www.antonello.com
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South Coast Plaza
(714) 754-0300
3333 Bristol St #1201 Costa Mesa, CA 92626
www.quattrocaffe.com
South Coast Plaza
(714) 540-3365
3333 Bear St. #118 Costa Mesa, CA 92626
www.nellocucina.com
4/30/15 3:23 PM
Dining
SEASONS 52 No deep-frying. No dish more than 475 calories. Lots of flavor. Fab piano bar, stylish decor, eclectic seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts, superior wine list. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5252 $$ Map J13
House-made vegetable chips at Andrei’s in Irvine MEMPHIS Southern, Cajun-Creole and Southwest dishes in hip retro setting. Start with gumbo or the pulledpork sliders. B, L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2920 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.7685 $$ Map J13 NORTH LEFT Ryan Adams (Three Seventy Common) and Aron Habiger (ex-the Crosby) have a hip, supercasual winner—the ambiance of a downscale bar, the cuisine of an upscale dining room. Rib-eye tartare; duck-confit salad; Applebottom Jeans dessert. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 400 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.543.3543 $$ Map H13 OLD VINE CAFE Regional and seasonal; a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple French toast, beeftongue panini or four-course tasting menus with wine pairings. B, L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 PARK AVE Owner-chef David Slay’s creative renditions of classic American fare feature housemade and homegrown specialties. Most produce meticulously grown on premises; visit the garden! Architecture is Googie, decor midcentury retro. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 PLAYGROUND Owner-chef Jason Quinn, whose Lime Truck won Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race, offers New American small plates: cauliflower nachos; Uncle Lou’s fried chicken; wagyu trip-tip. Playground 2.0 is a tasting-dinner “culinary theater.” D (daily). 220 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 RALPH BRENNAN’S JAZZ KITCHEN Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz (beaded piano!) at spot inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo Ya-Ya, bananas Foster. Beignets at Jazz Kitchen Express; romantic dining upstairs; casual meals downstairs. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.776.5200 $$ Map I10 THE RANCH Sophisticated restaurant and separate super-fun saloon. Chef Michael Rossi offers escargot with hazelnut spaetzle, country-fried Petaluma quail, and jaw-droppingly glorious bone-in cowboy rib-eye; try brother David Rossi’s old-fashioned pecan pie. Most produce picked daily on the Ranch’s own farm. D (nightly). 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 $$$ Map I11
SOCIAL New. Jeffrey Boullt (Playground’s former sous chef) delivers knockout cuisine and cocktails near the Triangle. Thai-inflected mussels; grilled bread with bonemarrow butter; akaushi skirt steak with chimichurri; Midnight Georgia cocktail. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.2425. $$ Map M12 STONEHILL TAVERN Michael Mina’s urbane ode to New American dining, in shimmering room at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, turns the cozy tavern concept on its ear, bringing the ocean indoors via windows, mirrors and veranda seating. Stunning tasting menus by executive chef Raj Dixit. D (Tu-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3318 $$$ Map J17 TAVERN ON THE COAST Modern American fare: housemade pastas, Prime steaks, wild seafood— and a pineapple-upside-down martini. L (Tu-Sa), D (Tu-Su), Br (Su). 34212 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.415.5888. $$ Map J16 TEMPO URBAN KITCHEN New. Restaurateur Jorge Cueva and chef Zach Geerson offer an intriguing menu featuring short-rib chocolate tacos, the highlight; their take on Korean dish bibimbap; and ice cream made tableside with liquid nitrogen. Excellent cocktails use housemade bitters, syrups and infusions. B, L, D (daily). 1060 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.529.2900 $$$ Map A3 THREE SEVENTY COMMON Chef Ryan Adams offers winning fare such as halibut with peas, mint, onion and preserved lemon; and apple fried pies. Family-style Sunday Night Social dinners. D (nightly). 370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map H15 320 MAIN Chef Jaime Carrano (Bouchon Beverly Hills, Aureole New York) offers citrus-cured salmon bite, roasted bone marrow with braised oxtail marmalade, and lamb osso buco; owners Jason and Rebecca Schiffer fashion cutting-edge cocktails. D (nightly). 320 Main St., Seal Beach, 949.494.8686 $$ Map C1 330 WATERTABLE Chef Manfred Lassahn pulls out the stops at restaurant and “gastro bar” in inspired “living rooms” and on redone ocean-view patio. Shareable Bar Jars; honey-lavender Berkshire pork entrée. B, L, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.1234 $$ Map N9 ZIMZALA Surfer-chic restaurant-and-bar at hip Shorebreak Hotel offers “American/beach comfort” cuisine— and excellent Cal-Med. Br, D (daily). 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.960.5050 $$ Map N9
Belgian
Brewpubs and Gastropubs AMERICAN TAVERN EATERY & DRINK Familyfriendly spot at Hotel Ménage. Chili-seared edamame; flash-grilled Caesar salad; chimichurri flat iron steak. Plus tropical drinks—and view of Disneyland fireworks!—at outdoor Palapa Bar. B, L, D (daily). 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.758.0900 $$ Map I10 BLACK KNIGHT GASTRO LOUNGE Convivial indoor-outdoor spot with a dozen sports screens. Highlights include the eggplant poke, wood-fired pizza and excellent flatbreads; generous cocktails. L, D (daily). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.646.2401 $$ Map K12 BOSSCAT KITCHEN AND LIBATIONS New. Creative fare with Southern accent—whiskey-scorched okra, “lowcountry” bouillabaisse—amid reclaimed materials. One hundred aged whiskeys, bourbons and scotches; whiskey flights; and whiskey bar. L, D (daily). 4647 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.333.0917 $$ Map D4 THE CROW BAR AND KITCHEN Cut-above creative fare, and outstanding selection of burgers, from James Beard Award-nominated chef John Cuevas. Superb brew selection. D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2325 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.675.0070 $$ Map M16 EATS KITCHEN & BAR New. Jason Montelibano (ex-Chapter One) launches new venue at Hotel Irvine, presenting comfort classics and his own creations, e.g., Niman Ranch pork-belly buns with housemade kimchee. Circular bar; patio fire pit. B, L, D (daily). 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780 $$ Map J14 FIRESIDE Tavern at renovated Crowne Plaza Hotel. Berkshire pork-belly sliders; pickled wild Gulf shrimp; pan-roasted Mary’s Chicken. L, D (daily). 3131 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.913.9061 $$ Map J13 HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Vadouvan-crusted lamb belly with spiced rutabaga and house harissa; sticky toffee pudding with brown-butter-bourbon ice cream; superlative burgers. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680 $$ Map C4 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 $$ Map I11, C4 MCFADDEN’S RESTAURANT AND SALOON New. Fun Irish-American comfort food: Irish nachos; Shepherd’s Frito Pie; Vermonster burger with maple mayo, sharp cheddar, caramelized apples, red onion and bacon; Plus Jameson Mule cocktail, deejays, HDTVs for sports fans, patio dining. D (daily). Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.201.3924 $$ Map I10 MULDOON’S Dublin pub—of gastropub quality—and Celtic bar; off-the-menu Black Bush Stew with shot of Irish whiskey and baby lamb chop. L, D (Tu-Su); Br (Su). 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 $$ Map L15
RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ One of the county’s best restaurants serves O.C.’s best breakfast on the covered patio of an 1881 house next to the train tracks in the historic Los Rios district. Soju bloody mary; pain perdu. B, L (Tu-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17
BRUSSELS BISTRO Belgian menu, drinks, decor. Chicon gratin (endives, white sauce, cheeses), Belgian stoemp, crepes flambés. All-you-can-eat moules frites M-W. DJs/ dancing F-Sa after 10:30 pm. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 222 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.376.7955 $$ Map H15
SIDE DOOR Superb spot shares a replica of England’s oldest inn with dining landmark Five Crowns. Artisanal cheese, charcuterie, seasonal plates and world-class brews—plus elevated British pub fare. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322, $$ Map M16
SADDLE RANCH CHOP HOUSE Rock-western experience with mechanical bull; look for the stagecoach on the roof! 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 $$ Map K12 and J11
BRUXIE O.C.’s original waffle sandwiches. Hot tickets: Pastrami Bruxie, Creamsicle float. B, L, D (daily). The Strand, 180 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 657.215.3559; 292 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3900; 215 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1188; 279 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.877.3015 $ Map N8, C4, A3
SLATER’S 50/50 Burgers! Design your own—or try Peanut Butter & Jellousy or Fritos Crunch. Superior brew list. L, D (daily). 8082 Adams Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.594.5730; 24356 Swartz Drive, Lake Forest, 949.460.9314; 6362 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim Hills, 714.685.1103 $$ Map L9, E6, B5
ANNE WATSON
SANDY’S HB SoCal vibe and vibrant setting steps from the sand at the Huntington Beach Pier. Regionally inspired cuisine and huge patio. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 315 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.7273 $$ Map N9
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Dining
come in get hooked
California Cuisine BAMBÚ Classic and creative dishes with bold flavors celebrating seasonal and local foods presented in a four-story atrium amid lush palms, orchids and bamboo trees. B (daily), L (M-F), D (Tu-Sa). Fairmont Newport Beach, 4500 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.476.2001 $$$ Map K14
C A S U A L , M O D E R AT E LY P R I C E D
>
O P E N 7 DAYS
K’YA BISTRO BAR Handsome bistro at La Casa del Camino hotel offers expansive selection of small plates and wines by the glass. Wild Hawaiian poke, goat cheese-fennel-orange salad, lobster macaroni ’n’ cheese. D (nightly). La Casa del Camino, 1287 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.9718 $$ Map I15 NAPA ROSE Wine country at Disney Resort is a celebration of beauty in the bottle and the bounty of nature; chef Andrew Sutton offers sophisticated seasonal fare in stylish setting; polished staff includes dozens of sommeliers. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.635.2300 $$$ Map I10 NFUSE BAR & KITCHEN New. Contemporary spot at Anaheim Marriott puts bar before the kitchen but offers grilled-shrimp omelets; Laura Chenel goat cheese infused with Anaheim chili jam; Prime tenderloin. Video imagery in the lounge; fire pit on the patio. B, L, D (daily). 700 W. Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.750-8000. $$ Map I10 OAK GRILL New. Chef Marc Johnson delivers from start (seared Maine diver scallops with heirloom beans and capers) to finish (Rocky Road Bar). Fifty wines by the glass; superb cocktails. Shares huge patio with Aqua Lounge. B, L, D (daily). Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 $$$$ Map L15
Voted Best Seafood in Orange County! Full bar and patio featuring classic and contemporary seafood specialties!
N E W P O RT BEACH
C ATA L I N A ISLAND
DISTRICT @ TUSTIN
W W W . B LU E WAT E R G R I L L . C O M
REDONDO BEACH
CORONADO ISLAND
NOW OPEN TEMECULA WINE COUNTRY
F O L LO W U S @ b l u e w a t e r g r i l l _
ONOTRIA WINE COUNTRY CUISINE Ristorante honors wine with Cal-Ital dishes concocted to flatter fine varietals. Dishes are seasonal, and game is a specialty. The wine list runs 40 pages. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2831 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.641.5952 $$ Map J1 PROVENANCE New. Cathy Pavlos’ wine-country-farmhouse-themed spot has raised-bed patio garden; produce is the star. Dessert: S’more in a Jar, or the Earl Grey cream soda cocktail with cinnamon bourbon. Fantastic brunch. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (S). 531 Eastbluff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0477 $$ Map L14 SEALEGS WINE BAR Seasonal California share plates—e.g., Pig and Fig Flatbread, Stinky Fries, bananas Foster French toast—plus limited-production wines and craft beers amid Hamptons-style nautical decor. D (nightly), Br (Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.536.5700 $$ Map M9 SHADES Casual elegance, deft Cal-Continental menu and ocean views make this a popular steak (boutique ranch meats) and seafood destination. Lavish brunch (unlimited crab legs!) on poolside patio. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Waterfront Hilton, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.8444 $$ Map N9 SILVER TRUMPET Musically themed restaurant and striking bar opposite Segerstrom Center for the Arts, ideal for pre- or post-theater repasts. Seasonally driven fare, housemade pastries and desserts. B, L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). Avenue of the Arts Wyndham Hotel, 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 $$ Map J13 SPLASHES RESTAURANT AND BAR Indoors by the fireplace or on the patio steps from the sand, the water’s-edge Pacific view provides a dramatic backdrop for meals meant to be gorgeous memories. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Surf & Sand Hotel, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.4477, Ext. 550 $$$ Map H15 STUDIO Airy bluff-top Arts and Crafts-style bungalow with stunning azure and endless Pacific view oozes an offhand luxury befitting its premium resort setting. Chef Craig Strong reaches far beyond the predictably
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N EW P O RT B E A C H
FIG & OLIVE is about passion for the best olive oils, flavors, and cuisine from the Riviera & Coastal regions of the South of France, Italy, and Spain. FASHION ISLAND, NEWPORT BEACH 151 Newport Center Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660 949 877 3005
figandolive.com
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Dining posh with an ambitious menu of creative Cal-French cuisine. D (Tu-Su). Montage Resort & Spa, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 866.271.6953 $$$$ Map I16 TABU GRILL Local in-spot/Zagat high scorer brings on new chef Rayne Frey, who continues its winning ways. D (nightly). 2892 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.7743 $$$ Map I16 TANGATA Lunch-only spot at museum from the acclaimed Patina Group. “Soup of yesterday,” braised lamb shank with creamy polenta. L (Tu-Su). Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.550.0906 $$ Map G13 TANGERINE GRILL Find culinary California adventure opposite Disney’s California Adventure. Consider tangerine chicken, tangerine scallops or Malibu culotte steak. B, L, D (daily). Anabella Hotel, 1030 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.772.1186 $$ Map I10 VINE Laid-back beach burg takes wine-country detour with poised California cuisine and enlightened wine selections. Jared Cook is the new executive chef and partner. Chef’s Pub is adjacent. D (Tu-Sa). 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2079 $$$ Map south of F6 VUE Serves up “forward-thinking California coastal cuisine” on a bluff overlooking Dana Point Harbor. The ocean breeze and fire pit add to the romantic ambiance. B, L, D (daily). Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.5000 $$$ Map J16 THE WINERY Chef-partner Yvon Goetz offers superior contemporary cuisine—the freshest seafood, wild game, USDA Prime steaks plus cigar patios and extensive wine cellars—at two striking locations, the newest overlooking the harbor. Tustin: L (M-F), D (nightly); Newport: D (nightly). District at Tustin Legacy, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600; 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.999.6622 $$$ Map J14, N13
Chinese CAPITAL SEAFOOD More than 100 kinds of dim sum, offered from pushed steam carts at lunch, plus Asian tapas, clay-pot items, tofu, noodles and congees. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 85 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.788.9218; 2700 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949.252.8188 $$ Map D5, J14 DIN TAI FUNG New. Taiwan icon known for xiao long bao—Shanghai-style soup dumplings—opens venue at South Coast Plaza. New York Times included the original in its world’s top 10; the L.A. Times’ Jonathan Gold pegged the Glendale location in his top 101. Shrimp and pork wonton with spicy sauce; shrimp fried rice and sautéed string beans with garlic. L, D (daily). 3333 Bristol St. Costa Mesa, 714.549.3388 $$ Map J13
Cuisine
By
Rick Bayless
Mexican Inspired Prime Steak & Seafood
MANDARIN KING Family-owned spot offers extensive menu of favorites and three-course family dinners. Pupu platter for two; lemon chicken; spicy peppered fish; pork with hot garlic sauce. L (M-Sa), D (daily). 1223 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8992 $$ Map H15 TWENTY EIGHT New. Top Chef finalist Shirley Chung— former executive chef at China Poblano by José Andrés— presents modern Chinese in stylish digs. Singapore-style chili lobster with hand-cut noodles; slow-braised oxtail. L, D (daily). 19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.852.2828 $$ Map K14
Continental FIVE CROWNS Venerated Lawry’s spot in English inn replica celebrates 50th anniversary with dramatically expanded menu—nearly triple the items—and new bar. Prime rib and other favorites stay. Superb SideDoor Gastropub is adjacent. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331 $$$ Map M16
Fashion Island - 143 Newport Center Dr. Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.718.0300 NEW LOCATION IN
Santa Monica
OPENING SUMMER 2015
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Dining •
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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 $$$$ Map J11 ORANGE HILL Hilltop hideaway with endless city-light views; traditional and updated fare includes seafood, prime rib, lobster. Orange Bar has retro orange theme and orange piano. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.2910 $$ Map C5 21 OCEANFRONT Romantic restaurant with sunset views, cozy bars, servers in black tie and menu featuring abalone, oysters Rockefeller and superb crab legs as well as steaks and osso buco. Live entertainment in the lounge. D (nightly). 2100 W. Oceanfront (Newport Pier), Newport Beach, 949.673.2100 $$$ Map N13
Eclectic
Costa Mesa
Newport Beach
633 Anton Blvd. 714.546.7405
8112 East Coast Highway 949.376.6990
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS: 3 LOCATIONS IN SCOTTSDALE, AZ LAS VEGAS, NV BEVERLY HILLS, CA PALM DESERT, CA THOUSAND OAKS, CA CHICAGO, IL MALIBU, CA NEW YORK, NY WASHINGTON, D.C. • OPENING 2015 www.MastrosRestaurants.com •
MastrosRestaurants •
@MastrosOfficial
MIX Restaurant and lounge at the Hilton Anaheim’s atrium lobby gets striking new redo and chef’s table, offers globally influenced fare using locally sourced ingredients. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10 SAPPHIRE LAGUNA Chef Azmin Ghahreman offers globally inspired dishes at stylish restaurant. Gourmet pantry for picnic and takeout. The popular patio has a partial ocean view. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15
French BISTRO PAPILLOTE New. Laurent Brazier of La Cuisine Culinary Arts cooking school launches Parisian café offering the classics in former Seventh Tea Bar space at OC Mix. B, L (daily). South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.641.2005 $$ Map J12 THE CELLAR Subterranean setting at 1920s-era California hotel oozes character, straddles categories with its modern European fare. Three B Hash; chateaubriand; chocolate soufflé. Late-night lounge Tu-Su until 2 am. D (Tu-Su) 305 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.525.5682 $$$ Map A3
Live Jazz Brunch brunch
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lunch
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happy hour
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dinner
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when it matters
GEMMELL’S Fine chef Byron Gemmell serves up fairly traditional French fare and adds California touches. Casserole of escargots; hearts of palm and crab; roasted duck. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 34471 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.234.0063 $$$ Map K16 MARCHÉ MODERNE Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia raise the bistro to delicious heights with their unstuffy but oh-so-French effort. He revels in what’s seasonal. Dessert? Exquisite cheeses or Amelia’s transcendent desserts. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map D3 MOULIN New. Cheery bistro-epicerie-café offers rotisserie chicken, baguette sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, wine and beer—all French amid French logo decor. Tu prix-fixe dinner. B, L (daily); D (Tu). 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920 $$ Map K16 PASCAL Venerated chef Pasal Olhats offers the Pascal Experience menu divided into priced courses—plus bakery and epicerie items, salads, sandwiches, panini, desserts, and picnics to go. B, L, D (daily). 103 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.488.0031 $$ Map I17
Steps to South Coast Plaza & Segerstrom Center for the Arts Every Sunday with Co-Hosts KJAZZ’s Bubba Jackson & Scott’s GM Robert Redaelli
Costa Mesa : 714.979.2400 : scottsrestaurantandbar.com :
PINOT PROVENCE Sophisticated French-Med dishes and decor from Patina Group favored for executive lunches, pre-theater dinners, brunch and special occasions. Charming walled patio. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Westin South Coast Plaza, 686 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.444.5900 $$$ Map J13
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Dining VIE DE FRANCE Classic onion soup, breads (excellent croissants!) and pastries baked fresh daily, sandwiches made to order, desserts homemade at charming bistro and bakery. B, L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.1734 $ Map J13
Indian CLAY OVEN Regional and creative Indian fare. Habanero shrimp vindaloo; goat curry; tandoori venison. Owner-chef Geeta Bansal recently cooked at New York’s prestigious James Beard House. L, D (daily). 15435 Jeffrey Road, Irvine, 949.552.2851 $$ Map D5 ROYAL KHYBER Spot often cited as O.C.’s best Indian marks 30 years. Warm eggplant salad; lobster masala; signature Khyber’s Nectar, lamb shanks simmered 14 hours. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza Village, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13 TAMARIND Sibling of London’s Michelin-starred spot; new chef Imran Ali focuses on traditional recipes in contemporary presentations. Potato platter; tandoori sea bass. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7862 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.8338 $$$ Map J13
International DARYA Topnotch traditional Persian cuisine and service in an elegant atmosphere at South Coast Plaza Village. Specialty stews, rices and kebabs; combination platters; live music on weekends. L, D (daily). 3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 614.557.6600 $$$ Map J13 MOZAMBIQUE African fortress gone hip and stylish offers Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine such as piri piri prawns. Veranda rooftop dining. Casual spinoff in Newport Beach. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777; the Bluffs, 1332 Bison Ave., Newport Beach, 949.718.0956 $$ Map I15, E4
Italian ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE Italian steakhouse in 1909 manor; refined cuisine elaborately presented amid fresco recreations. White chocolate salmon; peppered hanger steak; game dishes. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.1381 $$$ Map I10 ANDREA Elegant but unstuffy. Spectacular views of elysian vistas and the ocean. Superb northern Italian cuisine. Pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L, D (daily). Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 949.467.6800 $$$$ Map L17 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE Top-notch, romantic northern Italian restaurant in faux villa; don’t miss the osso buco with risotto milanese. Enoteca Lounge and bar menu. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.751.7153 $$$ Map J13 BRUNOS TRATTORIA Lively, contemporary spot offers memorable dishes such as hamachi with sweet-and-sour shallots, wild-boar-sausage bucatini, caramel-chocolate budino, and housemade limoncello liqueur. L, D (daily). 210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000 $$$ Map A3 CANALETTO Venetian-style restaurant offers salumeria, antipasti, wood-fired pizzas, specialty meat and seafood dishes (e.g., vermicelli Cassopipa with seafood ragu). L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 545 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.0900 $$$ Map M16 CUCINA ENOTECA Cal-Ital plus wine shop amid fun decor. Vasi (filled jars), lobster gnocchi neri, guanciale bucatini, house-infused liquors. L, D (daily), Br (Su). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000; Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222 $$ Map L15, D5
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Dining ECCO Hip spot at the Camp serves up sophisticated wood-fired pizzas, ricotta gnocchi with grilled prawns, sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic and chilies. New at Anaheim Packing House. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.444.ECCO; 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, eccopizza.com $$ Map J13, H10 FRANCOLI GOURMET Convivial, handsome northern Italian destination takes a quantum leap in quality, both in style (e.g., ornate orange-glass chandelier) and cuisine since its move to Old Towne Orange. B, L, D (daily). 100 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.288.1077 $$ Map C4 IL BARONE RISTORANTE Acclaimed chef Franco Barone and wife Donatella offer sophisticated fare at stylish spot hidden near John Wayne Airport. New casual Il Barone Pizza e Pasta spinoff on Balboa peninsula. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 4251 Martingale Way, Newport Beach, 949.955.2755; 705 E. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.1029 $$ Map K14, N14 IL DOLCE PIZZERIA Artisanal Naples-style pizzas and pastas in modest spot at busy intersection. The simple pepperoni pizza may be the county’s best; the pistachio pizza, with Parmesan, red onions, rosemary and Gruyère, is a more unusual delight. L, D (daily). 1902 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.200.9107 $$ Map J14 IL FORNAIO Upscale casual trattoria and bakery features crusty fresh bread, housemade and imported pastas, wood-fired pizzas and roasted meats in a romantic atmosphere. L (M-Sa); D (nightly). 18051 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.261.1444 $$$ Map J14 IL GARAGE Beguiling Italian spot from David Slay, of acclaimed ParkAve, in a garage, 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 $$ Map I8 MAMA D’S Neighborhood spot on the peninsula has a loyal following thanks to large portions and very personable wait staff. Extensive menu; pasta, chicken and hero sandwiches at lunch. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3012 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.6262 $$ Map N13 MARE CULINARY LOUNGE Chef-owner Allessandro Pirozzi’s glittery spot. Infused pastas include limoncelloinfused mafaldine pasta with lobster tail, shallots and pinot-grigio local-lemon sauce. B, L, D (daily). 696 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9581 $$$ Map H15 NELLO CUCINA Italian steakhouse plus thin-crust pizzas, innovative pastas in South Coast Plaza’s Bear Street wing; sibling to Antonello Ristorante. L, D (daily). 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.3365 $$ Map J13 PIROZZI Instant classics at Alessándro Pirozzi’s superconvivial spot include olive fritte; speck-wrapped, wildboar-stuffed quail; limoncello-infused taglierini; and heartshaped Nutella pizza for two. D (daily). 2929 E. Coast Hwy, Corona del Mar, 949.675.2932 $$$ Map M16 PIZZERIA MOZZA Culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich replicate their L.A. and Singapore spots. Pizzas use distinctive dough and beguiling ingredients. Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel copetta with marshmallow sauce. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Spot owned by L.A. chef David Myers (Comme Ça) offers refined authentic Neapolitan fare using intriguing ingredients beneath soaring arched ceilings and frescoes. L (M-F), D (nightly). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13 QUATTRO CAFFÉ Antonio Cagnolo of nearby, muchlauded Antonello Ristorante rejuvenates shoppers with stylish fare. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.754.0300 $$ Map J13 SAPORI Chef-owner Salvatore Maniaci thrives on creating special meals—and memories—at ristorante tucked
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Dining away near Balboa Island. New Sapori Pizza adjacent. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1080 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.4220 $$$ Map N14 SETTEBELLO Classic and creative Neapolitan-style pizzas and other winning fare in stylish digs. Indoors feel like outdoors; Italian films screen in the lounge. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7864 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.2072 $$ Map J16 VITALY Maurizio and Barbara Cocchi of Bologna 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 $$ Map J13
Japanese BLUEFIN Master sushi chef Takashi Abe offers exquisite sushi and hot entrées. Toro tartare with osetra caviar; seafood tempura with truffle sauce and matcha salt. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Promenade, 7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.7373 $$$ 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 $$$ Map J14
LUNCH, DINNER, and SUNDAY BRUNCH Live Music Nightly!
NANA SAN Chef Goro Sakurai attracts a considerable and predominantly Asian clientele; there’s generally a wait by 5:15 pm, but you’ll get a call or text when your seats are ready. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 3601 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, 949.474.7373 $$ Map D4 RA SUSHI Lively crowd, fun cocktails, signature sushi rolls (e.g., Tootsy Maki, Crazy Monkey, “Ra”llilop) and other Japanese-inspired cuisine (Pineapple Cheese Wontons, Hot Mess crispy rice with spicy king crab mix). L, D (daily). District at Tustin Legacy, 2401 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.566.1700 $$ Map J14 SUSHI ROKU New. Cal-Japanese sushi pioneer known in Los Angeles for its superhip vibe and sleek decor opens at Fashion Island. Fluke kumquat sashimi; Katana roll; robata skewers; filet mignon with ginger teriyaki sauce; sake tasting flights; scotch-and-sake Salary Man. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.3622 $$ Map M16
714.776.5200
Downtown Disney® District • www.rbjazzkitchen.com
and Jazz Kitchen EXPRESS! A Taste of New Orleans TO GO
BEIGNETS • PO-BOYS • GUMBO • SNO-BALLS
Home Sweet Home .
Mediterranean CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR The Uva outdoor pavilion offers 40 California wines by the glass and tapas; upstairs is Catal for fine dining. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1580 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.774.4442 $$$ Map I10 FIG & OLIVE Pascal Lorange’s cuisine is an ode to olive oil and what’s on the plate—from crostini and crudo starters to crème-brûlée cheesecake—is sophisticated. The olive tree-studded setting is stunning. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.877.3005 $$$ Map L15 LUCCA CAFE & MARKET Euro-chic bistro, deli and wine bar is a destination for foodies seeking unusual items and dishes using artisanal and organic local ingredients. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6507 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.725.1773 $$ Map D5 MESA Stylish spot at the Camp, on the Bristol Street stretch known as SoBeCa, offers a hip scene, retractable glass roof, intriguing decor, inventive appetizers, superb cocktails and unisex restrooms. D (Tu-Sa). 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 $$ Map J13 ZOV’S Zov Karamardian’s passion propels her spots; Louis Jocson is the new executive chef. Acclaimed Med cuisine; bakery-café in Tustin. L, D (M-Sa). Enderle
Open 24 Hrs! FREE Wi-Fi!
1500 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim (Across the street from Disneyland® Resort)
FREE WI-FI • OPEN 24 HOURS
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Dining 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 $$$ Map C5, I11, C4, L17
Mexican/Latin ANEPALCO’S Chef Daniel Godinez applies French technique to traditional Mexican ingredients, with sophisticated, artfully presented results. Tilapia with serrano chili-infused beurre blanc; cuitlacoche-topped burger. Innovative cocktails. L, D (daily). 3737 Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.456.9642 $$ Map B4 EL CHOLO New. SoCal chain with 92-year history opens sixth location; menu lists the year each dish was introduced, e.g., green corn tamales (1923) and filet mignon tacos (2009). L, D (daily). 3520 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.777.6137 $$ Map N12 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Old Towne day-trippers and tequila connoisseurs duck into this rustically stylish haven for spirited takes on regional Mexican fare far beyond tacos and burritos. L, D (daily). 141 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3038 $$ Map C4 JAVIER’S CANTINA Lively locations with spectacular decor and mucho-gusto ways with south-of-the-border classics. La Tablita, prepare-your-own tacos for two; chili colorado of Kurobuta pork chops in guajillo chili sauce with nopalitos. L, D (daily). 7832 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.494.1239; Irvine Spectrum Center, 45 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.872.2101 $$ Map H15, D5 LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with renowned guacamole and superb coastal views. Snapper Veracruzana; Yucatan chicken. The patio is packed. B, L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15 LA VIDA CANTINA Spot behind nightclub Sutra and 4/8/15 4:58 PM
WSL_PRNTAD_WHERE_0415_vF.indd 1
near cinemas has a very attractive outdoor bar with five fire pits and two oversized palapas. Don’t miss Rico’s Queso! L (F-Sa), D (daily), Br (Su). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.612.2349 $$ Map K12
MATADOR CANTINA Upscale spot with red-brick walls in 1899 building serves traditional dishes but also “Mexican-inspired,” such as chorizo ravioli. Also consider queso fundido and chocolate enchiladas. L, D (daily). 111 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.871.8226 $$$ Map A3 PUEBLO New. Traditional and contemporary Spanish tapas such as seared spot prawns with green olives and garlic from chef Michael Campbell (sous chef at Michael Mina’s RN74) amid folklorico-style decor. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775 $$ Map J12 RAYA Sophisticated global cuisine from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree, roasted halibut with truffled boniato and crispy jalapeños; the churros are a must! B, L, D (daily). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16
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RED O Sexy design with lots of Moroccan accents, menu by Mexican cuisine guru Rick Bayless. Ceviches, guacamole tasting, lamb chops mole negro. Extensive tequila list; the Topolo house margarita is outstanding. L, D (daily). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0300 $$$ Map L15 SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooking harbor canals offers vibrant Baja-inspired dishes by Deborah Schneider (Amor y Tacos and new Salsas and Moles). Chorizo and mushrooms con queso; Hot & Raw tropical ceviche; taco Vampiro; grilled Kobe skirt steak. L, D (daily). 251 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.675.9800 $$ Map O15 SOLITA Sol Cocina spinoff offers tacos (e.g., chorizo, bacon and sweet potatoes; chili tofu; wood-grilled carne
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Dining asada) and margaritas. Start with queso al forno with bubbling, spicy Mexican cheeses. L, D (daily). Bella Terra, 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.894.2792 $ Map C2 TACO ASYLUM Spot serving unusual tacos, excellent brews and small-batch sodas gets second wind with winning new chef Carlos Anthony, 24. Banh mi taco, corn off the cob, dessert nachos; off-the-menu, blow-yourhead-off Pyro taco. L, D (daily). The Camp, 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.922.6010 $ Map J13 TACO MARÍA Carlos Salgado serves up meticulous and always fascinating “Chicano cuisine” at the OC Mix, e.g., piloncillo pork belly with pencil-cob grits, cherry and dandelion. Memorable, truly distinctive tacos at lunch; dinner is four-course prix-fixe. L (Tu-Sa), D (W-Sa). South Coast Collection, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.538.8444, $$$ Map J13 TORTILLA REPUBLIC Inventive fare, stylish decor. Duckconfit tacos with sour-cherry salsita; tequila-coriander-rub hanger steak; 100 blue-agave spirits at the onyx-cap bar. Two dining terraces and courtyard patio; even the chefs have ocean views. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 480 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.393.4888 $$$ Map I15 WHO SONG AND LARRY’S Eclectic Cal-Mex cantina with Asian accents near Honda Center: crunchy crabchicharrón-chipotle sushi; lobster mac-and-cheese enchiladas; avocado split with dulce de leche ice cream, pecan brittle, XO sauce; shareable Larry y Yo cocktail with upside-down Coronita beer. L, D (daily). 1535 W. Katella Ave., Orange, 714.639.9550 $$ Map I11
Seafood AMELIA’S SEAFOOD & ITALIAN RESTAURANT Charming local favorite for almost half a century offers scampi Caesar salad, linguine with fresh bay scallops and baby calamari in marinara sauce, and cioppino. The intimate patio table is coveted. D (nightly), Br (F-Su). 311 Marine Ave., Balboa Island, 949.673.6580 $$ Map M15 BLUEWATER GRILL Fresh seafood selection at handsome spots changes daily. Grilled Australian barramundi, Costa Rican mahimahi, farm-raised Mississippi catfish. Outdoor waterfront dining in Newport. L, D (daily); Br (Su). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2409 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.FISH; 630 Lido Park Drive, Newport Beach, 949.675.FISH $$ Map J14, N13 BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO. Fun spot inspired by the film Forrest Gump. Start with the peel-and-eat Shrimper’s Net Catch. L, D (daily). Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.635.4867 $$ Map I10 THE CANNERY The spot is historic—a cannery in 1921, a fine seafooder for 40 years—but what’s been coming out of the kitchen of late is better than ever. Jellyfish Lounge specializes in sushi; great happy hour. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3010 Lafayette Road, Newport Beach, 949.566.0060 $$ Map N13 THE CATCH Sleek spot popular with baseball and hockey fans as well as concertgoers—it’s near Angel Stadium and Honda Center. Crispy-skinned Tasmanian trout; 5-pound OMG burger feeds 10; hot chocolate sundae flamed tableside. L, D (Tu-Su). 2100 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.935.0101 $$ Map I11 DUKE’S Hawaiian-inspired seafood, Prime steaks and beach-house ambiance. Hawaiian-inspired seafood, Prime steaks. Next to the pier; endless ocean views. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 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 K16
new
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with 3 servings of fruits & veggies
17595 Harvard Ave. Irvine, CA 92614 949.250.3348
2937 El Camino Real Tustin, CA 92782 714.505.2582
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Dining MARKET BROILER Mix ’n’ match fresh fish ‘n’ sauce. Mesquite-grilled seafood and steaks, sushi, on-site fresh fish market. L, D (daily). The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd., Orange, 714.769.FISH; 20111 Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach, 714.771.6655 $$ Map J11, L10 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB Bluff-top, ocean-view spot. Dry-ice enshrouded Seafood Tower; freshest seafood in majestic proportions; and the don’t-miss signature warm butter cake. Glass-topped grand piano in the O Bar. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 8112 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.376.6990 $$$$ Map N14 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Citified fish house offers simply prepared fresh seafood. Old-school cocktails, legendary happy hour; microbrews on tap at Irvine’s Pilsner Room. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2000 S. Main St., Irvine, 949.756.0505; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.535.9000 $$$ Map L14, I10
WHERE GREAT FOOD AND GREAT ART COME TOGETHER nu .
ROY’S RESTAURANT Roy Yamaguchi‘s Hawaiian fusion
fare amid stylish tropical decor. Yamaguchi-style sushi; me ht etizelar te nig Featuring an international, style menu, hand tossed pizza, fresh seafood, pineapple-infused Hawaiian martini. D (nightly). ll arppandtapas a l, a Featur ing an intern n py houand desserts. signaturetersandwiches Fashion Island, 453 Newport Center Drive, Newport natio atio nal p , a all Op in h en app for etiz , lun er me Beach, 949.640.7697; Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. ch, dinner, happy hou g annch, dinner sangria, craft beers, wine and full bar. dining. r and late nignu. Award-winning ht lu Featunr in r Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.7697 $$$ Map L15, I10 Opeingfo. Live spontaneous ent ert ain din me nt Loc per al for art me ists d nig on htl site Open for lunch, dinner, happy hour and late night dining. y. creating masterpieces. SCOTT’S Fine dining close to shopping and ideal for pre-theater—there’s a bell 15 minutes before showtime. Live spontaneous performed nightly. Featur ing an internentertainment ational, all masterpieces. Lures include superb seafood, USDA Prime steaks and fun Open artists for lunch, etizer me Local ondin site nercreating , happy houapp dining. r and late nignu. desserts, and there’s a new cocktail list in the lounge. Live ht Large outdoor patio and bar. music (W-Sa). L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3300 Bristol St., Live spo nta neo us ent ert ainment per for Banquet room accomodations forme private Local artists Costa Mesa, 714.979.2400 $$$ Map J13 d nightlevents. on site y. creating maste rpieces. Large out doo r patioCITY and Banquet room accomoda 20 BLVD. bar WEST, ORANGE SHUCK Oyster bar offers meticulously shucked tions for privat e events. .AT ORANGE selections. Superb grilled cheese sandwich, seafood THE OUTLETS
(714) 769-2222
WWW.CAFETUTUTANGOOC.COM
stew. Bubblies and brews. L, D (daily). OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.420.0478 $$ Map J12
SLAPFISH Boat-to-table cuisine: Lobster grilled cheese, lobster sandwich, lobster dog and “clobster cake” (half crab, half lobster). L, D (daily). 2727 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.723.0034; 211 Broadway St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.0464; 19696 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.963.3900; $$ Map M13, H15, D2 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY Excellent seafood and steaks, oyster bar, gold-medal-winning brews, spectacular brunch. Opens presently in Irvine. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Birch Street Promenade, 101 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.257.0101; the Market Place, 13390 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.619.0404. $$$ Map A3, C5 WATERLINE All-meal “water to table” fresh local seafood experience overlooking harbor replaces First Cabin restaurant. Crab eggs Benedict in the a.m.; halibut BLT at lunch; scallops “Peas & Carrots” at dinner. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888.894.2788 $$$ Map D5 WATERMAN’S HARBOR New. Chef John Cuevas offers fresh uni, crab beignets, Mexican prawns with chorizo and kimchee and locally caught tuna—and slow-braised blackened short ribs with smoked grits—amid harbor views. D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 34661 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.764.3474 $$ Map K17 WOODY’S WHARF Waterfront spot with colorful history serving seafood and steaks since 1965. Cary Grant and Mickey Mantle were guests. Chuck Norris once owned it; doormen included Jean-Claude Van Damme! L (M-Sa), D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.0474 $$ Map N8
Steak AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at Brazilian steakhouse cooked over fire pit, seasoned with rock salt. 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 $$$ Map J13
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Dining THE CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant steakhouse offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Panfried calamari with cherry peppers; bone-in kona-crusted dry-aged sirloin; ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J17 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue serves prime everything. Classy feel extends to bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass and in flights. Superior small plates; sizzling steaks; Wine Country Brunch, prime rib on Sundays; “retro chic” and “couture” cocktails. Br (Su), D (nightly). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15
Vietnamese
BRODARD CHATEAU Elegant two-story venue serves specialty dishes of Hanoi, Hue and Saigon. Baked clams; Phuket-style pho; seafood bird’s nest. L, D (daily). 9100 Trask Ave., Garden Grove, 714.899.8273 $$$ Map K8
ANQI Innovative small plates in sexy setting with backlit bar and glass catwalk over running stream. Mango-chili shrimp; galbi hanger steak with crispy kimchee polenta; amazing garlic noodles. Secret-recipe garlic crab on Tuesdays. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13
EAST BOROUGH Casual fare on a patio at the Camp. Pork-belly banh mi; pho baguette with beef brisket; lemongrass tofu. L (daily), D (Tu-Sa). 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.641.5010 $ Map J13
BREAK OF DAWN Iconic, recently relocated spot is known for generous portions of chef Dee Nguyen’s superb Vietnamese-inflected American breakfast fare. B, L (W-Su). 24351 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, 949.587.9418 $$ Map G17
LANTERN CAFE Bustling spot offers spring rolls, hot pots, clay pots, oxtail pho, entrées including lemongrass calamari with curry and pepper and flame-broiled pork with shredded pork skin. L, D (daily). 103 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.515.9090 $$ Map M13
MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky spot offers largerthan-life portions and white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; off-the-menu crab gnocchi; and— oooh—warm butter cake. Bar offers generous cocktails, fine live music. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405 $$$$ Map J17 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Classy bastions of beef get slick new redesign. Service-plus, colossal portions. Double filet, Cajun rib-eye, retro filets Oscar and Diane. Show-and-tell menu recitation. Bar 1221. Anaheim, D (nightly); Santa Ana, L (M-F), D (nightly). 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.621.0101; South Coast Plaza Village, 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.444.4834 $$$$ Map I10, J13 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Bone-in cowboy ribeye; caramelized banana cream pie. Soaring ceilings, modern sculpture, colorful glass at Anaheim location. Anaheim, D (nightly); Irvine L (F), D (daily). 2041 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.750.5466; 2961 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.252.8848 $$$$ Map I10, K14 SAM & HARRY’S Swank repasts feature hand-cut Midwest corn-fed steaks aged 28 days, seafood flown in daily, potent cocktails. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Newport Beach Marriott, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.6900 $$$ Map M15 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Ice hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s upscale spot with several distinct settings in historic cottage. Pacific diver scallops; scarlet beet ravioli; Lord Stanley (bone-in rib-eye) wagyu steak for two; Bloomsdale spinach side; and excellent desserts. D (TuSu). 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881 $$$ Map I16
Thai ROYAL THAI CUISINE Casually elegant family-owned spots on the coast for more than 30 years. Honey duck; Lady Thai prawns. L, D (daily). 4001 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.645.8424; 1750 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.8424 $$ Map N13, I16 THAI NAKORN Local fixture. Specialties include fried fish with mango salad, clam in chili paste and basil. 11951 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.799.2031; 12532 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, 714.583.8938 $$ Map I8, K10
Themed PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard galleon replica in indoor lagoon. Call for weekend schedule; D (nightly). 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 $$$ Map G8 RAINFOREST CAFE Creative decor, animatronics and special effects bring the rain forest indoors; dine among lush vegetation, lightning storms and wild animals. Expansive menu; kids’ menu. Don’t forget the Volcano at the end of your meal. B, L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1515 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.772.0413 $$ Map I10
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Dining Food Halls ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE Historic citrus hub— the Sunkist building—reopens doors with two dozen foodie vendors including Adya for Cal-Indian; Sawleaf for Vietnamese; Rolling Boil for Asian hot pots; Georgia’s for Southern fare; Wheat and Sons for rotisserie, charcutierie and sandwiches; Kettlebar for steam-kettle-cooked seafood pan roasts; Hammer Bar & Tool Shed for cocktails; Black Sheep for grilled cheese sandwiches; Ecco Pizza; the Iron Press for savory waffles; Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream; Popbar for handcrafted gelato on a stick; and Dark 180 for sophisticated hot chocolate. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.635.1350 $$ Map H1
4TH STREET MARKET New. Sixteen foodie tenants in the East End, among them Noodle Tramp, Electric City Butcher, Touch S’more Co., Portola Coffee Lab and three concepts from innovative Playground owner-chef Jason Quinn: PFC for chicken, Wagyu Chuck for burgers and Recess Libations for cocktails on tap. L, D (daily). 201 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.486.0700 $$ Map H13
Quick Bites BOLDO BOL New. Choose a grain, legume, three vegetables and a sauce, and a protein if you want—each locally sourced, distinctive and downright vibrant. 305 E. Fourth St., Santa Ana, 714.558.2653 $ Map H13
Something for Everyone LUNCH • DINNER • HAPPY HOUR
RESTAURANT & SALOON
C4 DELI: THE CURE FOR THE COMMON Localcentric kitchen with wine-and-craft-beer bar and even more distinctive craft sodas; ciabatta-roll sandwiches include the standout porchetta. B, L, D (daily). 200 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.263.1555 $$ Map H13 CROW BURGER KITCHEN Casual sibling to the Crow Bar + Kitchen in Corona del Mar offers Angus and Prime beef burgers in intriguing configurations. Try Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger! Cheeseburger!. L, D (daily). 3107 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.673.2747 $ Map N12 EARL OF SANDWICH Extensive menu at popular spot at Downtown Disney includes hot sandwiches (Hawaiian BBQ, caprese, Caribbean jerk chicken), wraps (Thai, spicy tuna), salads and artisan soups. B, L, D (daily). 1565 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.817.7476 $$ Map I10 LEMONADE Seasonal Southern California comfort food in a fast-casual cafeteria setting. A huge array of distinctive salads, sandwiches, slow-simmered stews—and several lemonades, of course! L, D (daily). 987 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.7525 $ Map L15 LINX Artisanal sausages in Old Towne: “Haute LinX” plus 15 condiments and 15 sauces; apple strudel ice cream sandwich with salted caramel sauce. L, D (daily). 238 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.744.3647 $ Map B4 MCDONALD’S By the numbers it’s America’s favorite hamburger restaurant; this one’s near the Disney theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.491.0563 plus 70 other county locations. $ Map I10 MENDOCINO FARMS Winning spot with blue-cow theme offers newfangled sandwiches—Drunk’n Goat on Highway 128, Spicy Lemongrass Steak Banh Mi— and salads. L, D (daily). 450 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.548.2500 $$ Map M13 PIE-NOT Aussie-style bakery offers meat, veggie, glutenfree pies. Mary’s pie with rosemary, garlic and lamb; Slice of Heaven dessert. B, L, D (daily). 270 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.650.7437 $ Map H13 PIZZA PRESS New in Orange. Roaring ’20s newspaper theme decor and pizzas such as the Chronicle. Patio dining, wine and beer, plus grab-and-go. B, L, D (daily). 1534 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.323.7134; 155 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.888.5941 $ Map C4 PROVISIONS MARKET Specialty market and bottle shop offers new take on classic deli foods. Smoked-marlin starter; CB&J—roasted cashew butter, stout-apricotbacon jam and banana chips. L, D (daily). 143 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.997.2337 $$ Map C4 SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI New. Spot sandwiched between Newport and Balboa boulevards has fauxvintage surf photography, 10 sandwiches including an excellent banh mi. B, L, D (daily). 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001 $ Map N13
ORANGE COUNTY BREA • BUENA PARK COSTA MESA (SOUTH COAST PLAZA) FOUNTAIN VALLEY • LONG BEACH MISSION VIEJO • SANTA ANA & 36 OTHER LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE
FRESH PRODUCE BAR* • PRIVATE EVENTS • PLATTERS *Not at Brea/ South Coast Plaza
UMAMI BURGER Deservedly lauded burgers in 10 styles (e.g., Truffle, Tandoori) in hip venues; off-the-menu “tater tots.” L, D (daily). New at Irvine Spectrum Center. 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1830; 601 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.342.1210; 338 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.991.8626; The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.957.8626 $ Map G15, I10, J13 THE WAFFLE AFFAIR New. It’s all in the batter: Flavorful ingredients are incorporated right into the mix, making add-ons unnecessary. B, L, D (daily). 1064 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.8155 $ Map M14
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OC DINING
ZOV’S
Established in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, a James Beard award recipient, Zov’s has earned the respect of local, regional and national critics as well as the dining public. Zov’s offers salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood (and other American favorites) with a Mediterranean influence. Signature dishes include roasted rack of lamb with garlic pomegranate sauce, and sumac-dusted sea bass with shaved Brussels sprouts and caper citrus sauce. Dining at Zov’s is a must when visiting Orange County; there are locations in Anaheim, Newport Coast, Irvine and Tustin. Happy Hour daily 3-6 pm; banquet and meeting facilities for 10-70 guests. 1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim 714.280.ZOVS 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast 949.760.ZOVS 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin 714.838.8855 zovs.com
VIE DE FRANCE This charming bakery-café offers the best of rustic French cooking, reminiscent of a family-run bistro. Authentic specialties such as French onion soup, niçoise salad, beef bourguignon and steak frites are prepared by experienced chefs and enjoyed in a cozy, casual environment. Breads, croissants and pastries are baked fresh daily, and sweet finishes include chocolate mousse, fruit-filled crêpes, crème caramel and pain perdu. A wide variety of sandwiches, salads, pastas and lighter, vegetarian dishes provide additional versatility. Wine and beer are also available. Vie de France is an ideal way to enjoy the cuisine of France closer to home. Located on Level 1 in the Saks Fifth Avenue wing of South Coast Plaza. B, L, D (daily).
South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa 714.557.1734 viedefrance.com
DARYA AT SOUTH COAST PLAZA
Enjoy the healthful cuisine of Persia in a sophisticated setting ideal for family gatherings and couples alike. Traditional appetizers include hummus, tabbouleh salad and shrimp cocktail. Among an extensive selection of entrées are the classic Persian stew fesenjon, chicken, shrimp, lamb or beef kebabs, and combination platters that provide an opportunity for exploration. Also offered are seared filet mignon or fresh Idaho trout, paired with fine wines from around the globe. Finish with tiramisu, fruit tarts or chocolate-banana cake. Happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to close; live entertainment Thursday through Sunday. L, D (daily)
3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana 714.557.6600 daryasouthcoastplaza.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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OC DINING
IL FORNAIO
Il Fornaio’s award-winning authentic Italian cuisine is a favorite in Irvine. Specialties include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto and rotisserie meats. Artisan breads and pasta are made fresh daily. Each month a special menu from a different region of Italy is featured. With an event coordinator on-site to handle all of your needs, Il Fornaio is the perfect location for rehearsal dinners, weddings and business functions. The Il Fornaio Bakery Café next door offers an array of tossed-to-order salads, soups and Italian panini.
18051 Von Karman Ave., Irvine 949.261.1444 ilfornaio.com
THE HARBOR GRILL Since 1984, proprietors John, Wanda and Keegan Hicks have taken pride in the sincere friendly attitude of the staff and the quality of food. Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday breakfast, the Harbor Grill offers a delicious array of fresh seafood cooked in a variety of styles including Southwestern, Pacific Rim, Caribbean, Cajun and Mediterranean. With its reasonably priced menu, premium cocktails and extensive wine list, the Harbor Grill has become a favorite with locals and a popular destination for visitors who are made to feel like “regulars.” Whether they’re enjoying the cozy dining room or the colorful terrace, the view of the harbor sails encourages a leisurely meal while a pianist adds the perfect background music each evening.
34499 Golden Lantern, Dana Point 949.240.1416 harborgrill.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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OC DINING
AMELIA’S SEAFOOD & ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Amelia’s is celebrating more than 50 years of delighting visitors and locals alike. Located among the boutiques on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, this quaint European-style restaurant specializes in exquisite pasta and delectable seafood. Try the linguine with baby calamari and fresh bay scallops with marinara sauce. Amelia’s features at least 5 very fresh fish daily and mouthwatering combination dinners such as the filet mignon and scampi. Fine wines available. Private parties from eight to 48. Sunset dinner $12.95, Sunday-Friday 5-6 pm. D (nightly), Br (F-Su).
311 Marine Ave., Newport Beach 949.673.6580 ameliasbalboaisland.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 grass-fed buffalo sliders, panko-crusted portobello mushroom fries or famous warm octopus 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 less than half price: Alexander Valley Cabernet for $55, Napa Valley Cabernet for $89. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. 3-7 pm, Sat. 5-7 pm. Events and private dining available. L (M-F), D (M-Sa).
2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 andreisrestaurant.com
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 wide-screen 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 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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OC DINING MIX RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
Savor globally inspired flavors and the freshest locally sourced ingredients. 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
THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs contemporary California cuisine with a hip, vibrant and sophisticated setting to create a wine-country dining experience at the District in Tustin and on the waterfront in Newport Beach. The Orange County Concierge Association named the destination its 2014 restaurant of the year, its fourth such award since its opening in 2007. Executive chef and partner Yvon Goetz has been called an “unprecedented culinary genius.” The extensive wine cellars—6,000 bottles in Newport Beach, 7,500 in Tustin—complement the freshest and finest line-caught fish, USDA Prime steaks and exotic wild game. 2647 Park Ave., Tustin 714.258.7600 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach 949.999.6622 thewineryrestaurant.net
MATADOR CANTINA
Located in the heart of historic downtown Fullerton, Matador Cantina features modern Mexican cuisine by executive chef David Dennis. Familiar Mexican dishes such as chile rellenos, enchiladas and fajitas are given refreshingly original interpretations with items such as Steak a la Plancha (pictured) and Chorizo Ravioli the house favorites. Chef-driven seasonal handcrafted cocktails use fresh-squeezed juices; specialties include award-winning margaritas, Jalapeño Martini and Mango Dulce. Matador features more than 50 premium tequilas, including artisanal small-batch mescals, California and Spanish wines, and the largest selection of Mexican beer on tap in Orange County. “Voted Best Mexican Restaurant in OC back-to-back 2013 and 2014 by Golden Foodie Awards. Enjoy Taco Tuesdays 2 pm to close. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 111 N. Harbor Boulevard, Fullerton 714.871.8226 thematador.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.
ANAHEIM
HAMAMORI (Japanese)...................................44
IRVINE
PROVENANCE (California)............................. 38
AMERICAN TAVERN (Brew Pub) ................ 36
IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian)....................... 43
AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Brazilian)........ 47
RED O (Mexican)................................................ 45
ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE (Various).... 49
IRON PRESS (American)................................. 34
ANDREI’S (American)....................................... 34
ROYAL THAI (Thai).......................................... 48
ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE (Italian)........... 42
LANTERN CAFE (Vietnamese)....................... 48
BISTANGO (American)..................................... 34
ROY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood).................. 47
BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO (Seafood)......46
LA VIDA CANTINA (Mexican)....................... 45
CAPITAL SEAFOOD (Chinese)....................40
SAM & HARRY’S (Steak)................................ 48
CATAL / UVA BAR (Mediterranean)...........44
LEATHERBY’S (American).............................. 34
CLAY OVEN (Indian)........................................ 42
SAPORI/SAPORI PIZZA (Italian)............... 43
THE CATCH (Seafood).....................................46
MARCHÉ MODERNE (French)....................... 41
CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................... 42
SESSIONS (Sandwiches).................................. 49
CROSSROADS AT H.O.B. (American)....... 34
MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)............. 48
EATS KITCHEN & BAR (Brew Pub)............. 36
SLAPFISH (Seafood)......................................... 47
EARL OF SANDWICH (Sandwiches).......... 49
MEMPHIS (American)....................................... 36
IL FORNAIO (Italian)....................................... 43
SOL COCINA (Mexican).................................. 45
IRON PRESS (American)................................. 34
MENDOCINO FARMS (Quick Bites)............ 49
JAVIER’S CANTINA (Mexican).................... 45
SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).................................44
J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) . .............................. 36
MESA (Med.-American).....................................44
LUCCA CAFE (Mediterranean)......................44
21 OCEANFRONT (Continental).................... 41
MORTON’S (Steak)........................................... 48
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood)..... 47
WAFFLE AFFAIR (Quick Bites)..................... 49
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak)... 48
WATERLINE (Seafood).................................... 47
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood)..... 47 MCDONALD’S (Quick Bites)........................... 49 MCFADDEN’S (Brew Pub)............................... 36 MIX (Eclectic)........................................................ 41 MORTON’S (Steak)........................................... 48 NAPA ROSE (California).................................. 38 PIZZA PRESS (Quick Bites)............................ 49 RAINFOREST CAFE (Themed).................... 48 RALPH BRENNAN’S (American)................. 36 THE RANCH (American)................................. 36 ROY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood).................. 47 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak)... 48 SLATER’S 50/50 (Burgers/Brew Pub) . ...... 36 TANGERINE GRILL (California)....................40
NELLO CUCINA (Italian)................................ 43 OLD VINE CAFE (American)......................... 36 ONOTRIA (California)....................................... 38 PIE-NOT (Quick Bites)....................................... 49 PINOT PROVENCE (French).......................... 41 PIZZERIA ORTICA (Italian).......................... 43 PUEBLO (Spanish)............................................. 45 QUATTRO CAFFE (Italian)............................ 43 ROYAL KHYBER (Indian)............................... 42 SADDLE RANCH (American)........................ 36 SCOTT’S (Seafood)............................................ 47 SEASONS 52 (American)................................ 36
TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood)....................... 47
THE WINERY (California)................................40
TWENTY EIGHT (Chinese).............................40
WOODY’S WHARF (Seafood)........................ 47
UMAMI BURGER (American)......................... 49
NEWPORT COAST
ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)...................44 LAGUNA BEACH BREAK OF DAWN (Vietnamese)................. 48 BROADWAY (American)................................. 34 BRUSSELS BISTRO (Belgian)....................... 36 THE DECK (American)..................................... 34 DRIFTWOOD (American)............................... 34 K’YA BISTRO BAR (California) .................... 38 LAS BRISAS (Mexican).................................... 45
UMAMI BURGER (American)......................... 49
SHUCK OYSTER BAR (Seafood)................. 47
ZOV’S ANAHEIM (Mediterranean)...............44
SILVER TRUMPET (California)...................... 38
MARE CULINARY LOUNGE (Italian)........ 43
BREA
SOCIAL (American)........................................... 36
MOZAMBIQUE (South African)..................... 42
BRUNOS TRATTORIA (Italian).................... 42
TACO ASYLUM (Mexican)..............................46
ROYAL THAI (Thai).......................................... 48
BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................... 36
TACO MARIA (Mexican).................................46
SAPPHIRE (Eclectic).......................................... 41
LILLIE’S Q (American)..................................... 34
UMAMI BURGER (American)......................... 49
SELANNE STEAK TAVERN (Steak)........... 48
TAPS FISH HOUSE (Brew Pub/Seafood).... 47
VIE DE FRANCE (French)............................... 41
SLAPFISH (Seafood)......................................... 47
MANDARIN KING (Chinese)..........................40
TEMPO URBAN KITCHEN (American)...... 36
VITALY (Italian)..................................................44
SPLASHES (California)..................................... 38
BUENA PARK
DANA POINT
STUDIO (California)........................................... 38
CLAIM JUMPER (American).......................... 34
GEMMELL’S (French)......................................... 41
TABU GRILL (California).................................40
IL GARAGE (Italian)......................................... 43
HARBOR GRILL (Seafood).............................46
THREE SEVENTY COMMON (American).... 36
PARK AVE (American)..................................... 36
JIMMY’S (American).......................................... 34
TORTILLA REPUBLIC (Mexican)................46
PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE (Themed)... 48
RAYA (Latin fusion)............................................ 45
UMAMI BURGER (American)......................... 49
THAI NAKORN (Thai).......................................... 48
STONEHILL TAVERN (American)................ 36
NEWPORT BEACH
TAVERN ON THE COAST (American)....... 36
AMELIA’S (Seafood)..........................................46
VUE (California)...................................................40
A RESTAURANT (American)......................... 34
CORONA DEL MAR CROW BAR AND KITCHEN (Gastropub).36 EL CHOLO (Mexican)....................................... 45 FIVE CROWNS (Continental)........................40 PIROZZI (Italian)................................................ 43 SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)................................. 36 COSTA MESA/ SOUTH COAST METRO ANQI (Vietnamese Fusion)............................... 48 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE (Italian)........ 42 ARC (American).................................................. 34 BISTRO PAPILLOTE (French)........................ 41 BLACK KNIGHT (Gastropub)......................... 36 BOATHOUSE COLLECTIVE (American)... 34
WATERMAN’S HARBOR (Seafood)............ 47 FULLERTON THE CELLAR (Modern European).................. 41 MATADOR CANTINA (Mexican)................. 45 GARDEN GROVE BRODARD CHATEAU (Vietnamese).......... 48 THAI NAKORN (Thai)..................................... 48 HUNTINGTON BEACH BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................... 36 DUKE’S (Seafood)..............................................46 MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................... 47
ANDREA (Italian)............................................... 42 BABETTE’S (American)................................... 34 THE BEACHCOMBER (American)............... 34 BLUEFIN (Japanese).........................................44 JAVIER’S CANTINA (Mexican).................... 45 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood)......... 47 SETTEBELLO (Italian).....................................44 TAMARIND (Indian).......................................... 42 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)...................44 ORANGE ANEPALCO’S (Mexican-French).................... 45 BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................... 36 FRANCOLI GOURMET (Italian)................... 43 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican).45 HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew Pub)................ 36 THE HOBBIT (Continental).............................. 41 LINX (American).................................................. 49 MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................... 47 ORANGE HILL (Continental)........................... 41 PIZZA PRESS (Italian)...................................... 49 PROVISIONS (Quick Bites)............................. 49 SADDLE RANCH (American)........................ 36 WHO SONG & LARRY’S (Mexican) ......... 46 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO PASCAL (French)................................................ 41 RAMOS HOUSE CAFE (American)............. 36
BAMBÚ (California/French)............................. 38
SAN CLEMENTE
BAYSIDE (American)......................................... 34
VINE (California).................................................40
BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood).....................46
IVA LEE (Southern)............................................ 34
BOSSCAT KITCHEN (American).................. 36
SANTA ANA
CANALETTO RISTORANTE (Italian)........ 42
BOLDO BOL (California)................................. 49
THE CANNERY (Seafood)..............................46
C4 DELI (American).......................................... 49
CROW BURGER KITCHEN (Gastropub)... 49
CHAPTER ONE (American)........................... 34
CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)......................... 42
CLAIM JUMPER (American).......................... 34
EAT CHOW (Southern/Eclectic).................... 34
LITTLE SPARROW (American)..................... 34
FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean)........................44
NORTH LEFT (American)............................... 36
FLEMING’S (Steak)........................................... 48
PLAYGROUND (American)............................. 36
IL BARONE RISTORANTE (Italian)........... 43
TANGATA (California).......................................40
BRUXIE (Belgian)............................................... 36
SANDY’S HB (American)................................. 36
JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR (American)... 34
SEAL BEACH
THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)..................... 48
SEALEGS WINE BAR (California)............... 38
MAMA D’S (Italian)........................................... 43
340 MAIN (American)...................................... 36
CLAIM JUMPER (American).......................... 34
SHADES (California).......................................... 38
MOULIN (French)................................................ 41
TUSTIN
DARYA (Persian)................................................. 42
SLAPFISH (Seafood)......................................... 47
MOZAMBIQUE (South African)..................... 42
BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood).....................46
DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese)................................40
SLATER’S 50/50 (Brew Pub) . ...................... 36
MULDOON’S (Irish Pub).................................. 36
J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) .............................. 36
EAST BOROUGH (Vietnamese).................... 48
SOLITA (Mexican) . ........................................... 45
NANA SAN (Japanese)....................................44
RA SUSHI (Japanese)........................................44
ECCO RISTORANTE (Italian)....................... 43
WATERTABLE (American).............................. 36
OAK GRILL (California)..................................... 38
THE WINERY (California)................................40
FIRESIDE (Brew Pub)........................................ 36
ZIMZALA (American)....................................... 36
PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian)........................... 43
ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean)...................44
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Entertainment Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 77-79. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
Index
Special Events...................55 Theater................................55 Music + Dance..................56 Sports...................................56 Attractions.........................56 Museums...........................59 Shopping Destinations...60
Golf Courses..................... 60 Active Outdoors..............63 Beaches + Parks...............63 Nightlife.............................. 70 Tours + Transport.............72 Tickets.................................74
VANS U.S. OPEN OF SURFING July 25-Aug 2. World’s largest pro surfing competition also includes beach-lifestyle festival, skate and BMX events, community movie nights. Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, vansusopenofsurfing.com Map N9 LOBSTERFEST Aug. 8. Maine lobster, kids’ activities and live entertainment. 3-8 pm. $20-$55; VIP $150. Newport Dunes Resort, 101 N. Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, lobsterfestatnewportbeach.com Map M14
Special Events
Theater
NEWPORT BEACH ART EXHIBITION June 13. Mingle with the artists at show featuring more than 200 works. 1-6 pm. Free. Newport Beach Civic Center Community Room. 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.3800, newportbeachca.gov Map L15
OZ 2.5 June 1-7. Oz was never like this! The children’s classic is set in a video game world. Dee’s moniker is Dorothy14, and with the help of Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, she gets through each level on her way to defeating the Witch of the Western Realm. But what happens when she wins and wants to go back to Kansas? South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 scr.org Map J13
GREEK FESTIVAL June 26-28. 37th annual event features traditional Greek cuisine, wine tasting, live music, Greek dancing with lessons, and boutique booths reminiscent of the Plaka, a picturesque and historical Athens neighborhood. F 5-10 pm, Sa noon-10 pm, Su noon9 pm. $3. Kids free; seniors free Sa noon-4 pm. St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church, 4949 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 949.733.3102, irvinegreekfest.com Map D4 ART-A-FAIR June 26-Aug. 30. Juried art festival displays works by 125 artists in all mediums, including painting, drawings, photography, digital art, mixed media, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, glass and wood. Live entertainment on weekends. Su-Th 10 am-9 pm, F-Sa 10 am-10 pm (closes 6 pm on July 4 and Aug. 30). $4.50-$7.50. 777 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.4514, art-a-fair.com Map G15 SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL June 26-Aug. 30. Works by 200 Laguna Beach artists—glass, painting, jewelry, ceramics, clothing and textiles, sculpture, scrimshaw, photography—plus demos, kids’ activities, outdoor cafés and live music in eucalyptus grove. Daily 10 am-10 pm (closes 6 pm on July 4). $8.50. Sawdust Art Festival, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030, sawdustartfestival.org Map G15 INDEPENDENCE DAY July 4. Fireworks and more! Dana Point Fireworks over Doheny State Beach, 949.923.2255. Huntington Beach Kiwanis breakfast, parade, 5K run, fireworks over the pier, 714.536.5486. Fullerton Live entertainment, food, fireworks, 714.738.3167. San Clemente Fireworks over the pier, 949.361.6100 Map K17, N9, A3, southeast of F6 FESTIVAL OF ARTS July 5-Aug. 31. California’s longest-running outdoor fine-art exhibition features works by more than 145 juried artists. Also, wineand-chocolate and cooking events, Jazz on the Green, Sunday in the Park music series. Daily 10 am-11:30 pm. (closes 6 pm on July 5 and 3:30 pm on Aug. 29) $4-$10. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.1145, foapom.com Map G15 COURTESY O.C. FAIR & EVENT CENTER
Amphitheatre, tribute bands in the Hangar, carnival with rides, La Grande Wheel, livestock competitions, agricultural displays, petting zoo, wine tasting and fried food galore. $7-$12, under 6 free; $10 (cash only) for parking. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, ocfair.com Map K12
GLOBAL COMPASSION SUMMIT July 5-7. The 14th Dalai Lama celebrates his 80th birthday with world leaders, Nobel laureates, celebrity guests, speakers and performers from around the globe. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 ORANGE COUNTY FAIR July 17-Aug. 16 (W-Su). “One Big Party” marks 125 years with action sports (rodeo, BMX, pig racing), concerts at the Pacific
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER June 1-7. He’s the orphan without a name; they call him Boy. One day, Boy is whisked onto the good ship Neverland, and the century-old story of Peter Pan gets its hilarious and imaginative prequel. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 LOVE, LOSS AND WHAT I WORE June 3-7. Funny and often poignant stories use clothing and accessories and the memories they trigger to tell stories relating both to matters of the heart and matters of the closet. Play by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron, based on the book by Ilene Beckerman, features Linda Purl. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 MOTOWN THE MUSICAL June 16-28. American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and more. Songs include “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13 HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN June 22-30. Called “the greatest songwriter that has ever lived” by George Gershwin, Irving Berlin is known for innumerable American classics such as “White Christmas,” “God Bless America,” “Anything You Can Do,” and “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails.” Jerome Kern said it all: “Irving Berlin … is American music.” Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787, lagunaplayhouse.org Map G15 SHAKESPEARE BY THE SEA July 18. The Tempest. July 19. As You Like It. (Bonita Canyon Sports Park, 1990 Ford Road, Newport Beach, Map D3) July 25. The Tempest July 26. As You Like It. (Rush Park, 3021 Blume Drive, Los Alamitos Map B1) July 30. As You Like It. (Birch Park, 210 N. Birch St., Santa Ana, Map G13) Aug. 2. The Tempest. (Eisenhower Park, 211 8th St., Seal Beach, Map C1) Aug. 8. The Tempest. (Irvine Valley College, 5500 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, Map C4) Aug. 16. The Tempest. (Crown Valley Community Park, 29751 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, Map E5) 7 pm. Free. shakespearebythesea.org THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Aug. 5-16. Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of
All’s Fair
It’s “One Big Party” when the O.C. Fair in Costa Mesa marks its 125th anniversary July 17-Aug. 16. Highlights of its Pacific Amphitheatre lineup include Willie Nelson July 19, Steve Miller Band July 24 and the Offspring July 30; the Hangar hosts tribute bands, and the Baja Blues Bar offers entertainment, too. Enjoy scores of rides and attractions at the carnival, including La Grande Wheel (above), and demolition derbies, BMX racing and bull riding in the action-sports arena. Check out agricultural exhibits including rare fruit, gourds and edible art at Centennial Farm and livestock in the livestock pavilion; sample winning wines in the wine pavilion and offbeat deep-fried treats almost everywhere. p. 55
The annual Nightclub & Bar Top 100 List, which ranks the top U.S. clubs strictly by revenue, lists Sutra Nightclub in Costa Mesa as #38 and Heat Ultra Lounge in Anaheim as #39. p. 70
SUMMER 2015 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 55
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Attractions + Museums THE OBSERVATORY June 4-7 Alkaline Trio. June 11 Alkaline Trio. June 13 Mago do Oz. June 14 Lower Class Brats and the Zero Boys. June 18-20 Misfits. June 27 Smut Peddlers and Houndmouth. July 3 John Butler Trio. July 9-12 X. July 11 Ryn Weaver. July 21 Between the Buried and Me. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.957.0600, observatoryoc.com Map J12
Mariko Ishii print at foaSouth gallery in Laguna Beach Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal musical success. New scenic design by Paul Brown, Tony Award-winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, new choreography by Scott Ambler and a new staging by director Laurence Connor. The production, overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh, also boasts new special effects. Songs include “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask Of You” and “Masquerade.” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13
Music + Dance THE COACH HOUSE June 5 The Tubes. June 6 Todd Rundgren. June 11 Ray Wylie Hubbard. June 14 Tim Weisberg. June 19 World Party. June 20 Randy Rhoads Remembered. June 25 Leo Kottke, David Lindley. June 26 The Fixx. June 28 Strunz and Farah. July 3 John Mayall. July 5 The Best of Orange County Blues. July 9 Henry Kapono. July 10 Walter Trout. July 11 Wild Child. July 12 Bily Vera & the Beaters. July 16 Trevor Hall. July 17 Martha Davis, the Motels. Aug. 1 Desperado & the Petty Breakers. Aug. 8 Zeppelin USA. Aug. 15 DSB, tribute to Journey. Aug. 16 America. Aug. 20 Marc Cohn. Aug. 22 Abba Fab. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, thecoachhouse.com Map F6 CONCERTS ON THE GREEN June 7 Stone Soul. July 12 Sligo Rags, bluegrass fusion. Aug. 23 The Kellie Rae Band, country. Free. Newport Beach Civic Center. 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.717.3800, newportbeachca.gov Map L15 GROVE OF ANAHEIM June 5 Halestorm. June 12 Steven Wilson. June 17 Robin Trower. June 20 Led Zepagain. June 26-27 Sesame Street Live. June 28 Comedian Tyler Oakley. July 12 Creedence Clearwater Revisted. 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.712.2700, citynationalgroveofanaheim.com Map I11 HONDA CENTER June 19 Marco Antonio Solis. July 20 Imagine Dragons. Aug. 19 Shania Twain. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES June 1 Starsailor. June 6 Badfish, a tribute to Sublime. June 7 Todd Rundgren. June 18-20 Intocable. July 23-24 Boyce Avenue. Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.2583, houseofblues.com Map I10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE June 5 UCI Symphony Orchestra. June 26-27 Men Alive, music of Elton John. July 11 All-American Boys Chorus. July 12 George Bernard Shaw, Man and Superman. July 25 National Choreographers Initiative. Aug. 13-14 Festival Ballet Theatre. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14
PACIFIC AMPITHEATHRE July 17 Gabriel Iglesias, Unity Through Laughter. July 18 Iration and Common Kings. July 19 Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss and Union Station. July 24 Steve Miller Band. July 25 Capital Cities and Big Data. July 26 The Turtles, the Association, the Grass Roots, Mark Lindsay (former lead singer of Paul Revere & the Raiders), the Buckinghams and the Cowsills. July 29 Spandau Ballet and DJ Richard Blade. July 30 The Offspring. July 31 Three Dog Night and Jefferson Starship. O.C. Fairgrounds & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, ocfair.com Map K12 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall June 5-7 Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg. June 14 Brit Floyd rock. June 16-28 Motown the Musical. July 15 Dancing With the Stars Live! Perfect Ten Tour Aug. 5-16 The Phantom of the Opera. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall June 4-6 Jazz/pop duo Herb Alpert and Lani Hall. June 11-13 Pacific Symphony. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER July 19 iPalpiti Orchestra. Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, Map J13
Sports ANGEL STADIUM June 1-3 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Tampa Bay Rays. June 12-14 Angels vs. Oakland Athletics. June 15-16 Angels vs. Arizona Diamondbacks. June 22-24 Angels vs. Houston Astros. June 26-28 Angels vs. Seattle Mariners. June 29July 1 Angels vs. New York Yankees. July 17-20 Angels vs. Boston Red Sox. July 21-23 Angels vs. Minnesota Twins. July 25-26 Angels vs. Texas Rangers. Aug. 3-5 Angels vs. Cleveland Indians. Aug. 7-9 Angels vs. Baltimore Orioles. Aug. 17-20 Angels vs. Chicago White Sox. Aug. 21-23 Angels vs. Toronto Blue Jays. 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com Map I9 HONDA CENTER June 7 L.A. Kiss vs. Portland Thunder. June 20 L.A. Kiss vs. Philadelphia Soul. June 27 L.A. Kiss vs. Arizona Rattlers. July 12 L.A. Kiss vs. Spokane Shock. July 18 L.A. Kiss vs. Las Vegas Outlaws. Aug. 8 L.A. Kiss vs. San Jose Sabercats. 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. $14.95-$28.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BALBOA FUN ZONE The zone is shrinking. Remaining rides include the Ferris wheel. Su-Th 11 am-6 pm; F until 9 pm, Sa until 10 pm. Pay per ride. 600 E. Bay Ave., Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach Map N15 BILLY BEEZ Slide, bounce, jump and run at indoor jungle- and bee-themed arena for kids and their families. M-F 11 am-9:30 pm, Sa 10 am-9 pm, Su 11 am-7 pm. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 657.207.4841 Map I10 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
BODIES THE EXHIBITION Full-body specimens offer highly detailed views of the human form. $18-$22, under 5 free. Adjacent Titanic show, separate admission. Open Su-Th 10 am-7 pm; F-Sa until 8 pm. 7711 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 657.529.7224 Map G8 CHOCXO New. 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 CHRIST CATHEDRAL Architect Philip Johnson’s glass cathedral, other buildings by Richard Neutra and Richard Meier. Tours M-Sa 10 am and 1 pm. Free. 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, 949.375.5763 Map J10 DISCOVERY CUBE Stunningly redone science center offers hands-on exhibits and live shows; the Julianne Argyros Showcase Theater is new. Opening June 11 Sherlock Holmes. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95$16.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s first theme park celebrates 60th anniversary with nighttime spectaculars including “Paint the Night” parade along Main Street, U.S.A., diamond decor for Sleeping Beauty Castle and “Disneyland Forever” fireworks show. Enhancements to Matterhorn, Peter Pan’s Flight and Haunted Mansion attractions, too. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $90-$96, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Park marks Disney’s diamond 60th anniversary. Soarin’ Over California; California Screamin’; Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. World of Color water-and-light show tells Walt Disney’s story. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $90-$96. 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 House of Blues Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and ESPN Zone. More than 1,000 plants at the new Starbucks create a giant coffee cup. 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 AIR COMBAT CENTER Aerial dogfights use very realistic F-16 fighter jet cockpit simulators. No experience necessary. Minimum age 11, height 4 feet 11. Starts at $59. Tu-Su 11:30 am-8:30 pm. 1650 S. Sinclair, Anaheim, 714.937.1511 Map I11 FULLERTON ARBORETUM O.C.’s largest botanical garden; 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 K1 SPEED Indoor kart racing offers challenging track for speed enthusiasts. Call for hours. Arrangements for private parties or corporate events possible. $20. 17221 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.250.0242; 1000 N. Edward Court, Anaheim, 714.632.6999 Map I14 and A3 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions; Voyage to the Iron Reef is new. Premier collection of coasters includes GhostRider and Xcelerator. Call for hours and prices; under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map G8 LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA Theme park features some 60 rides, shows and attractions. Call for hours. $73-$83, 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 LEGOLAND WATER PARK More than 20 Lego models, two sandy beach wading areas encircling a Lego tower. Call for hours. Accessible only through Legoland with park-hopper pass. $71–$81, under 3 free. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.LEGO Map south of F6 MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Lipizzaner stallions, swordsmanship and falconry, four-course feast. Plus Medieval Torture Museum. $36.95-$59.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8
July 5 - August 31, 2015 140 Fine Artists, Live Music, Workshops, Events + More!
OCEAN INSTITUTE Presentations aboard tall ship Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor; tide-pool sessions; marinemammal exploration cruises; blue-whale safaris. Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm; behind-the-scenes 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
LagunaFestivalofArts.org Visit website for hours and events 949.494.1145
ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK Huge in-progress park. Tethered-balloon ride, $5-$10, under 18 free with accompanying adult. Carousel, $2. Farmers market, Su 10 am-2 pm. Perimeter Road, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 ORANGE COUNTY ZOO Rustic zoo; animals of the Southwest. Audio tours available. M-F 10 am3:30 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 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 Swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, romance aboard Spanish galleon replica. Call for hours. $36.95-$59.95, under 3 free. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8 PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Interconnected, interactive miniature city for children from infant to 8 years old. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm; M until 1 pm. $12.50. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900 Map E6 QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Shops, dining, art deco lounge; Russian Foxtrot Submarine adjacent. Self-guided/guided tours, Daily 10 am-6 pm. $14.95-$30.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511 Map northwest of C1 RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM 25th anniversary. Provocative exhibits at Nixon birthplace; presidential helicopter, presidential tapes, Watergate gallery. Weekend garden tours. M-Sa 10 am-5 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm. $4.75-$11.95, 6 and under free. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.983.9120 Map A4
A R T I S T: WILLIAM R. BRION
The Pursuit of Happiness July 8 - August 31, 2015 A Unique Theatrical Per formance
Shows Nightly 8:30PM Advance Tickets: $15 - $230
PageantTickets.com 800.487.3378
ROCKREATION Indoor climbing facility with instruction at all levels. M-Th noon-10 pm; F noon9 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. $46; children 3-11 $36; 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 Renowned zoo has 4,000 rare and endangered animals in state-of-the-art environments. $46; 3-11 $36; 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 Ride. Daily, 10 am-4 pm. $7-$10, under 3 free. 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, 714.836.4000 Map H14
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HOLLYWOOD BOWL WHERE SUMMER PLAYS
DON’T MISS THIS ICONIC L.A. EXPERIENCE!
Attractions + Museums SEAWORLD Home of Shamu. Marine-themed attractions include new Explorer’s Reef, thrill ride Journey to Atlantis and Blue Horizons show. Open daily. Call for hours. $78-$84, under 3 free. 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, 800.25.SHAMU Map southeast of F6 SHERMAN LIBRARY & GARDENS Intimate botanical collection features 10 gardens. Library research center. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. Library open M-F 10:30 am4 pm. $1-$3, under 12 free. Free on Mondays. 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, dodgeball and AIRobics. $12 per hour. Call for hours. 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5867 Map J13 SOAK CITY WATERPARK Adjacent to Knott’s Berry Farm. Rides include vertical drop-off slide Malibu Run and Tidal Wave Bay. Call for hours. $21.99–$31.99. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map H8
HEART
SHERYL CROW
GUSTAVO DUDAMEL
THRILL IT FUN CENTER Indoor family-fun center features laser tag, rock climbing walls, ropes course and mechanical bull. Open M-Th 10 am-9 pm; F-Sa 10 am11 pm; Su 10 am-8 pm. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. West, Orange, 714.937.1600 Map J11 TITANIC—THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION Artifacts from the wreck of the 102-year-old “ship of dreams.” $18-$22, under 5 free. Adjacent Bodies, separate admission. Open Su-Th 10 am-7 pm; F-Sa until 8 pm, last tickets sold an hour before closing. 7711 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 657.529.7224 Map G8
HARRY CONNICK, JR.
DIANA KRALL
THE TRIANGLE Dining and entertainment destination. Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, nightclub Sutra, Starlight Triangle Cinemas plus La Vida Cantina, Saddle Ranch Chop House and Black Knight Gastro Lounge. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map L12 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 near Bowers Museum. First Sunday celebrations. Sa-Su 10 am-4 pm. $6, under 2 free. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.480.1520 Map G13 AUDRA McDONALD
YUNDI
SMOKEY ROBINSON
Los Angeles Philharmonic
The B-52s
John Fogerty
The Psychedelic Furs
Journey
Amos Lee • David Gray
Cirque Musica
Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club
Yuja Wang Erykah Badu Playboy Jazz Festival HollywoodBowl.com 800.745.3000 Groups (10+) 323.850.2050
Sing-A-Long Sound of Music and many more!
323.850.2000 Parking, shuttle & venue policies at HollywoodBowl.com/GettingThere Programs, artists, prices and dates subject to change
BOWERS MUSEUM Dedicated to preservation and exhibition of world cultural arts plus displays with a California focus. June 14-Aug. 31 The 1968 Exhibit. Through July 11 Qi Baishi: China’s Modern Master. Through Aug. 16. Where Ends Meet: A Retrospective of Works by Nancy Ravenhall. Ongoing Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan; Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands; Ancient Arts of China; Pre-Columbian Exhibits; First Californians; California: The Golden Years; Missions and Ranchos (1768-1848); Adams, Curtis and Weston: Photographers of the American West. 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, bowers.org Map G13 HERITAGE MUSEUM OF ORANGE COUNTY Cultural and natural-history center dedicated to preserving and restoring the county’s heritage. F 1-5 pm, Sat 9 am-1:30 pm, Su 11 am-3 pm. 3101 W. Harvard St., Santa Ana, 714.540.0404 Map C3 HERITAGE HILL HISTORIC PARK Park preserves O.C.’s heritage through four historic buildings. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, 949.923.22 30 Map D6 HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERNATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM Board culture spotlights Duke Kahanamoku, classic surfboards, Endless Summer film.
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Shopping Su-M noon-5 pm; Tu until 9 pm; W-F until 7 pm; Sa 11 am-7 pm. Free. 411 Olive Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.960.3483 Map N8 FULLERTON MUSEUM CENTER Through Aug. 16. Here’s Johnny: The Making of the Tonight Show. Continuing Six Strings as Canvas: Art Guitars From the Fender Custom Shop. Tu-W, F-Su noon-4 pm; Th noon8 pm. $1-$4, under 6 free. 301 N. Pomona Ave., Fullerton, 714.738.6545 Map A3 IRVINE MUSEUM California Impressionism within an office building. Tu-Sa 11 am-5 pm. Free. 18881 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.476.0294 Map J14 LAGUNA ART MUSEUM California Impressionism and contemporary cultural art. June 14-July 12. Emerging Masters: Laguna College of Art + Design MFA exhibit. June 28–Aug. 31 Marcia Hafif: From the Inventory; Phil Dike: The Wave Series and Malibu Set Series, 1968–1981 From the Collection of Diane and E. Gene Crain. Ongoing Frank Cuprien: Pacific Views. 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 Very rare operational 20th-century aircraft and other historical vehicles on airport perimeter. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $6-$12, under 5 free. 19300 Ike Jones Drive, Santa Ana, 714.210.4585 Map J13 MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Exhibits at jewel of the California missions (1776). Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. Ongoing Mission Treasures; Native American Museum. 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 MUZEO In historic Carnegie Library building. Ongoing Cougars and Grizzlies: Sharing Their Path Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$10. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10 ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART California modern and contemporary art. June 27-Aug. 31 My Generation: Young Chinese Artists. W-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am-8 pm. $10-$12, under 12 free. 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach 949.759.1122 Map L15
Shopping Destinations ANAHEIM GARDENWALK Retail, entertainment and dining destination near Disneyland. Stores include Skechers, Harley-Davidson and Kensington Luggage. 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.635.7410 Map I10 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 O.C.’s second-largest mall is home to Nordstrom and Macy’s and 174 other retailers including a Tesla store, Kiehl’s Since 1851 and Kelley’s Kookies. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, 714.990.2733 Map A3
A UNIQUE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EXPERIENCE Sunset Dinner, Champagne Brunch and Summer Sunset Cocktail Cruises
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BUENA PARK DOWNTOWN More than 1 million square feet of retail, dining and entertainment near Knott’s Berry Farm. 8308 On the Mall, Buena Park, 714.828.7722 Map G8 THE CAMP Green-oriented enclave for outdoors enthusiasts includes eco department store SEED People’s Market and intriguing dining options including Taco Asylum, Ecco and Vitaly. 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa Map J13 CORONA DEL MAR PLAZA Boutiques include Gail Jewelers, Jack’s Surfboards and Sienna Brown. Other draws: Savory Spice Shop, Sprinkles Ice Cream. 800984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach Map M15
HORNBLOWER.COM | 855-559-3571 NEWPORT BEACH MARINA DEL REY LONG BEACH SAN DIEGO SAN FRANCISCO BERKELEY NEW YORK *Valid for up to 6 adults in Marina del Rey & Newport Beach. Terms and conditions apply. Not valid on holidays or special events. Cannot be combined with other offers. Exp. 11/30/15.
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Golf CRYSTAL COVE SHOPPING CENTER Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques Z Collection and Coastal Cool, home stores and fine dining including Bluefin, Babette’s and Mastro’s Ocean Club. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast Map M17 THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY One-millionsquare-foot retail, entertainment and dining destination. Denim Lab; Bowlmor bowling lounge; fledgling Union Market food and shopping vendors; Pinot’s Palette— color me wine! Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.9090 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex includes House of Blues, Build-A-Bear, Studio Disney 365 and Ridemakerz. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 (See Attractions.) Map I10 FASHION ISLAND Elegant open-air center with anchors Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom; also Burns 1876 western wear and Letarte swimwear. Sushi Roku and Minamoto Kitchoan Japanese confections are new 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15 5 POINTS PLAZA Neighborhood center offers Loft, Vans, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Charming Charlie jewelry, Cloudmover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi. The dogfriendly local favorite even has a barking lot! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 714.841.0036 Map D2 IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER Moorish-themed entertainment-retail center includes nation’s most visited movie complex, Nordstrom and Macy’s and lots of restaurants. Giant Ferris wheel visible from freeways. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 THE LAB Indoor-outdoor venue with youth-skewed boutiques. Shops include Urban Outfitters and Eye Society; dining includes Zipangu and Gypsy Den. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 THE OUTLETS AT ORANGE Includes Calvin Klein, H&M and Nike outlets, 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 THE SHOPS AT MISSION VIEJO From Aveda to Z Gallerie, plus Nordstrom and Macy’s; freeway adjacent. 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, 949.364.1832 Map E6 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Highlights include Design Within Reach showroom for midcentury modern, Surfas Culinary District and new LCA Wine. The OC Mix features 30 vendors—quirky retail such as Heirlooms and Hardware as well as hip Portola Coffee Lab. 3303-3323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12
Come discover the beauty of Anaheim Hills Golf Course. We
welcome visitors to enjoy the incredible value of daily tee times and pristine course conditions – all nestled right in the heart of Orange County, located just minutes from Disneyland. Escape today and take advantage of our FREE Rental Club Offer, New Nike VRS Series Rental Golf Clubs, for a savings of $30.00! Play like the pros, or at least test drive the clubs they use. It’s on us! To redeem offer, book your round through your hotel concierge. www.AnaheimHillsGC.com | Phone (714) 998-3041 Anaheim Hills Golf Course | 6501 Nohl Ranch Road | Anaheim, CA
SOUTH COAST PLAZA “The Ultimate Shopping Experience” is a state tourist destination. Marquee retailers include Christian Louboutin and, in stunning new quarters, Chanel and Valentino; Uniqlo and Scotch & Soda are recent adds. Macy’s Home Store and Crate & Barrel in Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13 WESTFIELD MAINPLACE Indoor million-square-foot center offers Macy’s, Nordstrom and 190 boutiques and shops; a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball court and open-air swimming pool is new. 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13
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
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Golf 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 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 MILE SQUARE GOLF COURSE Two challenging 18-hole courses. M-Th $34-$38, F $39-$45, Sa-Su $48. 10401 Warner Ave., Fountain Valley, 714.962.5541 Map C2 MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views abound at 18-hole course. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort 50 Monarch Beach Resort Drive North, 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 M15 OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bullnose 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 courses reopened after a two-year renovation as part of the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; there are spectacular coastal views from virtually every hole. $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; rolling greens, picturesque canyon, wetland vistas, county’s longest hole. M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D4 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, remodeled 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
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Beaches + Parks Active Outdoors AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in actual highperformance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing, riders have control in the air. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2 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 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH SURF LESSONS Schools include Endless Sun Surf, 949.533.1022; Newport Surf Camp, 866.787.3267; and Surf Newport Now, 949.505.5500. newportbeachca.gov Map D3 CLASSIC YACHT EXCURSIONS Coastal or bay cruise aboard Movin’ On; ocean sail aboard vintage sailboat Spartan; sunset wine tasting aboard either. Depart from dock between Bluewater Grill and the Cannery, Newport Beach. 949.612.8767; 949.689.3935. Map N13 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 JETPACK AMERICA Water-propelled-jet-pack adventure in (and over, of course!) Newport Harbor. $79-$699. 2600 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 888.553.6471 Map N13
AREO
gift . garden . candlelight . home 207 Ocean Avenue Downtown Laguna Beach (949) 376-0535 • AREOhome.com
NEWPORT SAILBOAT RENTALS Cruise the harbor under sail or power aboard a 27-foot Catalina sailboat; up to six people. Yachts in several sizes (for up to six, 12 or 86, respectively) also available. 3101 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 714.299.4006. Map D3 PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES Electric bike rentals $14 per hour with two-hour minimum or $50 per day. Tour three piers and Newport Harbor for $69. 301 Fifth St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.2782; 2515 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.612.7989; 34155 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.488.0696; 1065 Pacific Coast Hwy., Seal Beach, 562.296.5782 4624 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.274.7944. Map N9, M16, J16, D5 SKYTHRILLS Aerobatics in biplanes. Receive instruction, assume control of the aircraft, execute maneuvers such as a loop, roll, spin or inverted pass over the coast —no experience necessary! Gentler flights in opencockpit 1930s biplane. Includes recorded DVD. 230 Dale Place, Fullerton, 866.484.7455 Map A2
Beaches + Parks ALISO CREEK COUNTY BEACH Steep shore creates powerful waves. All amenities and fire pits. Pay-and-display parking $1/hour. 31131 S. 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. Life-
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Beaches + Parks guards, 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 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
WELCOME TO KOALAFORNIA THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK.
MAIN BEACH Large beach close to shops and restaurants offers great people-watching, basketball, volleyball, chess. All amenities. Metered parking. At Broadway and Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map F5
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NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL BEACH Popular golden strand with many fine surfing spots. All WhereSDMag_SDZoo_Sum2015.indd 1 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
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PIRATES COVE Secluded beach with harbor views; few to no waves make it perfect for little ones. Bouldering spot for local climbers. 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
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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, pristine stretch below the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Beautiful, grassy Bluff Park with 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 1,200-foot 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
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connect
WITH THE SEA
Go on amazing adventures and exhilarating rides at SeaWorld.® Be inspired by spectacular shows or go hands-in at our newest attraction, Explorer’s Reef.® Experience up-close animal encounters and learn about the incredible rescues and groundbreaking research that make SeaWorld a world leader in animal care. For more than 51 years — SeaWorld Cares.®
SeaWorldSanDiego.com © 2015 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Beaches + Parks 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; popular diving destination. Metered parking. At Fairview Street and Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach Map H15 TABLE ROCK BEACH 144 wooden steps lead to a dramatic cove with dangerous currents at the base of 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; volleyball courts, bodyboarding. Metered parking. West Street and South Coast Highway, South Laguna, 714.834.2400 Map I16
There’s always something new to see and learn at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play. Over 11,000 animals await you. For a $7 off coupon, visit aquariumofpacific.org/whereoc or capture QR code. AquAriumofpAcific.org 562.590.3100 100 AquArium WAy, Long BeAch, cA 90802
Photo: Jim Collins
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. Old-growth 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 MASON REGIONAL PARK Large grassy areas, picnic shelters, hundreds of acres of protected land with three 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 one 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
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Waterfront Dining and Drinks
Woody’s Wharf BRUNCH LUNCH DINNER
Lunch Mon-Sat 11 am-4 pm :: Dinner Mon-Sun 4 pm-10 pm Waterfront Dining Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3 pm-6 pm :: DJ Thurs-Sat 10 pm-close
Free dessert or appetizer with purchase of an entree. Show room key.
Bottomless Champagne Brunch Sat 930 am-4 pm :: Sunday 9 am-4 pm
2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, CA 92663
Woody’s Wharf has been a Newpor t Beach:: landmark since 949.675.0474 woodyswharf.com 1965. Join us for award winning cuisine featuring the freshest seafood, poultry and prime beef available anywhere on the coast. Our waterfront location and casual, fun atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience. Our renowned 4/29/15 Sunday brunch with bottomless champagne draws large local
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AWESOME AWAITS. LEGOLAND® California Resort is the ultimate LEGO ® experience. It has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including SEA LIFE ® Aquarium and new for Summer 2015, LEGO Friends Heartlake City! And a stay at the amazing LEGOLAND Hotel keeps the fun going! The Death Star has come to LEGO Star Wars Miniland! It’s eight feet wide and built entirely out of LEGO bricks. It’s every fan’s dream come true!
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when you buy online at LEGOLAND.com/VisitorSavings Located in Carlsbad just off I-5, LEGOLAND Park is open daily through Sep. 14, 2015 and closed select Tuesdays and Wednesdays during Fall and Winter. LEGOLAND Water Park is now open. Please check the website for details regarding days and hours of operation. Prices, times and schedules subject to change without notice. Visit LEGOLAND.com or call 877-LEGOLAND (534-6526) for details. LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2015 The LEGO Group. LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE are part of Merlin Entertainments plc. Star Wars and all characters, names and related Indicia are © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.
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Beaches + Parks 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 1,750-acre refuge has trails, native oak trees and historic dam. Nature Center open on weekends. Garden area is popular for small weekend weddings. 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, 714.973.6620 Map B4
Wilderness Parks ALISO AND WOOD CANYONS WILDERNESS PARK 3,350-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
$120
off admission
CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK 8,000 acres for day use, hiking and camping. Nature center; interpretive programs. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210 Map east of F6 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 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 MODJESKA CANYON NATURE PRESERVE At base of Santa Ana Mountains, bordered by Cleveland National Forest on three sides. Accessible only by ranger-led tours with advance reservations. Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2245 Map east of D6 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 A variety of hiking and interpretive trails situated within 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; several endangered species make this home. Interpretive center is open Tu-Su, 10 am-4 pm. overlooks the shimmering estuary, offering visitors a portage to bay life. 2301 University Drive (corner of University Drive and Irvine Avenue), Newport Beach, 949.923.2290 Map K13
Skip most ticket lines at 4 famous Southern California theme parks, including a 3-Day Park Hopper® to Disneyland ® Park and Disney California Adventure ® Park, and admission to SeaWorld® San Diego and LEGOLAND® California! Valid 14 days.
Buy at any CityPASS attraction or visit citypass.com for current pricing. Connect with CityPASS citypass.com or (888) 330-5008
Historical Parks ARDEN: HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Home of renowned 19th-century actress Madame Helena Modjeska. National historic landmark named for the Forest of Arden in Shakespeare’s As You Like It. By appointment through Heritage Hill Historical Park. 29042 Modjeska Canyon Road, Modjeska Canyon, 949.923.2230 Map east of D6
ATLANTA | BOSTON | CHICAGO | DALLAS | HOUSTON | NEW YORK CITY | PHILADELPHIA SAN FRANCISCO | SEATTLE | SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA | TAMPA BAY | TORONTO
Prices and programs subject to change.
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Nightlife 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 Orange County’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 of the local governmental transactions and court proceedings that shaped the county’s early history. Restored in 1989; houses historical exhibits, archives, special events and a marriage license office. 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.973.6605 Map H13 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 above). 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 historic Ranch, 714.973.3190. 6749 Parkwood Court, Yorba Linda Map A5
Nightlife A&O New. Balboa Bay Resort unveils waterfront Anchors & Oceans, specializing in craft beers, specialty cocktails and gastropub fare. 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4285 Map M13 AQUA LOUNGE New. Waved ceiling, 360-degree bar, huge patio, street-food-inspired menu ... and group cocktails! DJs Th-Su. Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 Map L15 BACCHUS Spot relaunches as bar and grill with 60 wines by the glass, 12 flights and cigar patio. 6735 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.502.4600 Map D5 BAMBÚ Lounge for light dining or nightcap; live entertainment. Fairmont Newport Beach, 4500 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.476.2001 Map K14 BARLEY FORGE BREWING CO. New. Costa Mesa’s first-ever commercial production brewery is bustling! Five-taster flights; barbecue on weekends. 2957 Randolph Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.641.2084 Map J13 BLIND RABBIT New. 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, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map J14, I10 CALIVINO WINE PUB Dedicated to elevating the novice tasting experience. 2410 E. Katella Ave, Anaheim, 714.939.7735 Map I11 COPPER DOOR Friendly watering hole in basement of 1925 building. Pool tables, 40 beers. Tu-Su 8 pm-2 am. 2251/2 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, 714.543.3813 Map H13
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COSTA MESA 55 TAVERN + BOWL State-of-theart bowling alley with 10 lanes and sports viewing. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.438.2320 Map K12
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SURF & SUP LESSONS RENTALS 689 & 695 S. COAST HWY LAGUNA BEACH CA. 92651 949-497-1423 OPEN 8AM DAILY CROSS STREET CLEO NEXT TO TACO BELL
THE DISTRICT LOUNGE Retro spot near Newport Pier has 100-foot mahogany and copper bar. Orange location is in original 1920s post office. 121 McFadden St., Newport Beach, 949.673.4470; 223 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.639.7777 Map N13, C4 FLOE LOUNGE New. Smart and chic inside-outside venue with seaside-meets-city vibe. Communal tables and games. Irvine Marriott Hotel, 18000 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.254.5725 Map J14 HEAT ULTRA LOUNGE Vegas-style club near Disneyland. Th-Sa. Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.776.4328 Map I10 HOPSCOTCH Huge whiskey list, 75 craft beers, creative cuisine inside 1918 Pacific Railway Station. 136 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.871.2222 Map B3 HOUSE OF BLUES Touring bands, dancing, outsider art and soul food. Rafter-raising gospel brunch on alternate Sundays. Call for schedule. Downtown Disney, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.778.2583 Map I10 IRVINE IMPROV Top comedy. Two-item minimum, food or drink; food by Umami burgers. Irvine Spectrum Center, 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5
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LOLA GASPAR Bar and kitchen in Artists Village; Drink the Damn Medicine paired shots (e.g., bourbon and pickle brine). Open until 2 am M-Sa, Su until midnight. 211 W. Second St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13 MARINE ROOM TAVERN Laid-back, newly redone bar; live rock and blues on weekends. Open M-F 3 pm-2 am, Sa-Su 10 am-2 am. 214 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3027 Map H15
GREENUP DESIGNS
MULDOON’S DUBLIN PUB Cozy spot with courtyard; fun Irish-themed events in the Celtic Bar. 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.4110 Map L15
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ORANGE COAST WINERY Focus on red varietals from Temecula and Lodi grapes. 3734 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.877.0336; 869 W. 16th St, Newport Beach, 949.645.0400 Maps M16, M12
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PIE SOCIETY Slick speakeasy tucked behind Pitfire Pizza offers innovative cocktails and snacks. 353 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.313.6335 Map N12 PINOT’S PALETTE Recreate paintings as you you swirl, sniff and sip wine! Open studio days, too. The District, 2479 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.400.9016 Map D4 RED BAR AND LOUNGE New. Brightly colored spot with frosted orange bar top, menu by Jason Montelibano. 17900 Jamboree Road, 949.225.6757 Map J14 THE ROBBINS NEST New. Wine, beer, cheer at wine bar/bistro at historic Southern Counties Gas Co. building. 214 N. Sycamore St., Santa Ana, 714.568.9926 Map H13 ROOFTOP LOUNGE Hot spot for sunset cocktails on wraparound patio with panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15
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Tours +Transport THE SPEAKEASY Hidden on cobblestone street at Old World Village; beer, wine and affordable small plates. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.899.3279 Map C2 STEAMERS CAFE O.C.’s best jazz spot. 138 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.871.8800 Map B3 STILL WATER SPIRITS & SOUNDS Nightly live entertainment. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003 Map J17 SUTRA LOUNGE Club with cool decor, musical acts and big-name deejays. Open Th-Sa. The Triangle, 1870 Harbor 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
2015AAF WhereMag.pdf 1 4/15/2015 4:26:55 PM
BEFORE YOU FLY, SURF.
www.WhereOC.com Discover timely information on current events, restaurants,
WINE LAB Wine/cheese tasting room and store at hip outdoors-themed center. Open Tu-Su. The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.905.9521 Map J13
sights and attractions
YOST THEATER Historical landmark now hosts popular musical acts and deejays. Open daily. 307 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 888.862.9573 Map H13
Magazine website.
on the WHERE
Tours + Transport AMTRAK Train service within Orange County and to destinations throughout California daily. There are stops in Anaheim, Fullerton, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano and Santa Ana. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com ANAHEIM REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INTERMODAL CENTER (ARTIC) New. Spectacular architectural achievement signals O.C.’s new commitment to mass transit. Metrolink and Amtrak trains, OCTA buses, Anaheim Resort Transportation, shuttles, taxis and charter buses—and, in the future, high-speed trains—converge. Restaurants and shops on upper levels. 1750 S. Douglass Road, Anaheim, 877.99.ARTIC, articinfo.com
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ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) Shuttles cover 19 routes with transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk and Anaheim Convention Center. Purchase passes online, at Amtrak station and select hotels. 888.364.2787, rideart.org BEST CHAUFFEURED WORLDWIDE Chauffeured vehicles available in as little as two hours’ notice. 866.323.2378; 714.375.9128 Map C2 CALIFORNIA YELLOW CAB Transportation in sedans, town cars, minivans to/from airports, attractions, restaurants, nightlife, shopping. 877.935.5692 CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Dolphin and whale-watching excursions aboard catamaran. Departures daily. $35-$59, under 1 free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828 Map J16 CATALINA EXPRESS Round trip to Catalina Island. Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Harbor; 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, 800.481.3470 Map K16, northwest of C1 CATALINA FLYER Triple-decker catamaran is fastest boat to Catalina Island: 75 minutes. Call for schedule. $51-$68, $4 children 2 and under. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 800.830.7744 Map N15 CITY PASS Pass includes discounted admission to Disneyland Resort theme parks and admission to others in L.A. and San Diego counties. Purchase online or at attractions. $269-$306, under 3 free. 888.330.5008, citypass.com
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city of Newport Beach recreation & Senior Services department
rfing experience suor t beach in newp Newport Surf Camp 866-Surf-Camp NewportSurfCamp@yahoo.Com newportsurfcamp.com
private Lessons 1 person $65/hour 2 people $95/hour 3 people $125/hour 4 people+ $60/2hour/pp register for private lessons at
www.newportsurfcamp.com
eNdLeSS SuN Surf 949-533-1022 eNdLeSSSuNSurf@hotmaiL.Com endlesssunsurf.com
private Lessons 1 person 2 people 3 people 6 people+
$65/hour $55/hour/pp $50/hour/pp $60/2hour/pp
register for private lessons at
www.endlesssunsurf.com
ocean adventure programs
surf newport now 949-505-5500 | surfnewportnow.com private Lessons 1 person 2 people 3 or more
$100/hour $85/hour $70/hour
register for private lessons at
www.SurfNewportNow.Com
camp registration available 24/7 at
www.campNewport.com city
of
Newport Beach recreation & Senior Services department
949-644-3151 | e: reCreatioN@NewportBeaChCa.gov | www.NewportBeaChCa.gov/reCreatioN
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Tours +Transport DANA WHARF WHALE-WATCHING AND SPORTFISHING Sportfishing, whale-watching expeditions and 82-foot schooner yacht for charters. Corporate parties, private fishing and twilight wine cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 800.979.3370, danawharf.com Map K16 DAVEY’S LOCKER Year-round whale-watching, (blue whales and finback whales in summer and fall), deep-sea sportfishing, fishing charters and boat rentals at 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 GONDOLA ADVENTURES Romantic gondola cruises through Newport Harbor canals. 3101 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.2067; 888.446.6365 Map N13 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 Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT Gateway to O.C., vastly superior to LAX in ambiance and ease of arrival and departure. Art exhibits; 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 Map H15
T R A N S P O R T A T I O N for the
TRULY DRIVEN S E D A N S · S U V S · L I M O U S I N E S · VA N S · M I N I C O AC H E S · M O T O R C O AC H E S
R E S E RVAT I O N S : (866) 323-BEST (2378) www.bestchauffeured.com
METROLINK Train system connects to San Diego, Riverside and Los Angeles; stops in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo, Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton and Buena Park. $10 Metrolink Weekend Pass (F 7 pm-Su 11:59 pm) can be used on Metrolink rails and Southern California public transportation. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com OCTA Orange County Transportation Authority buses. $2; day pass $5, 60 cents for 65 and older, under 5 free. Day pass for buses and Metrolink trains $7, $6 for seniors/disabled. Exact change. 714.560.6282, octa.net SUPERSHUTTLE Transportation to and from all Southern California airports around the clock. Groups and charters welcome. 310.222.5500; 800.258.3826, supershuttle.com TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Bus with state-of-the-art audio/video explores celebrity haunts and scandal sites. $53-$63. Starline Tours, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868
Tickets BARRY’S TICKET SERVICE Hard-to-get and premium tickets for local and national events. 675 Paularino Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.751.9800 Map J12 714 TICKETS Sporting events, shows and concerts, opposite Honda Center. Local delivery. 2620 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.842.5387, 714tickets.com Map I11 TITANIUM TICKETS Specializes in tickets for seats in the first 10 rows. 18685 Main St., No. 108, Huntington Beach, 714.848.1632. Map D2 WEST COAST TICKET SERVICE Tickets to in-demand events throughout Southern California. 310.207.1226, wctix.com
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Elsewhere Los Angeles County Attractions CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS Stunning contemporary cathedral opposite Music Center. M-F 6:30 am-6 pm; Sa 9 am-6 pm; Su 7 am-6 pm. 555 W. Temple St., downtown L.A., 213.680.5200 CHINATOWN Ornate architecture, dim sum, shops with Eastern wares. Between Cesar E. Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street, Yale and Spring streets, downtown DOLBY THEATRE Home of the Academy Awards. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. $10-$15, under 3 free. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 EL PUEBLO DE LOS ANGELES L.A.’s birthplace. Twenty-seven buildings include 1818 Avila Adobe, L.A.’s oldest. Festive open-air marketplace Olvera Street. 130 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274 FARMERS MARKET Local landmark with 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. M-F 9 am-9 pm; Sa 9 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-7 pm. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction overlooking Hollywood. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu-F noon10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm. Free; donations accepted. 2800 E. Observatory Road, L.A., 213.473.0800 HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME Celebs’ names are enshrined in bronze-and-terrazzo stars. Free. Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue, Hollywood, 323.469.8311 THE MUSIC CENTER The 90-minute Symphonian Music Center Tour includes history, architecture. Also see listing for Walt Disney Concert Hall at the Music Center. First come, first served. Tu-Sa 10:30 am-12:30 pm. Free. 151 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.4399 OCEAN FRONT WALK Boardwalk with quirky street performers, souvenir vendors. Along beach between Marine Street and Grand Boulevard, Venice SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN Theme park has 17 coasters; dozens of attractions; rides including world’s tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster, Tatsu. Call for hours. $39.99-$64.99, under 3 free. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, 661.255.4111 UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Eye-popping dining, shopping and entertainment promenade includes novelty shops and Imax theater. iFLY Hollywood is a simulated sky-diving wind tunnel. Call for hours. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455
Studio Tours SONY PICTURES STUDIOS Two-hour walking tour of working motion picture studio includes sets of television shows and films including Spider-Man. Reservation, photo ID required. M-F 9:30 am-2:30 pm. $33; under 12 not admitted. Parking free. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687 Map L11 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD World’s biggest movie/TV studio. Rides include Despicable Me, Transformers: The Ride 3D, Simpsons Ride, King Kong 360 3-D. Tram studio tour. Call for hours. $80, under 3 free. VIP Experience $299. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.UNIVERSAL
WBStudioTour.com TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
WARNER BROS. STUDIOS Two-hour tour of working movie and TV studio: backlots, soundstages, costume department, memorabilia museum, observation of filming when possible. VIP tours available. photo ID required. M-F 8:15 am-4:30 pm. $52, under 8 not admitted. 3400 Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8087
SUMMER 2015 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 75 097279.04_WB_2015_Q1_Print_Exec3_MidwestCart_WhereMag_OneThirdPage_MECH ROUND #:MECH Trim: 4.625” x 4.875” Bleed: N/A Live:N/A Color Space: CMYK Fonts: Frutiger & ITC Avant Garde Gothic Pub: Where Magazine PM: VW AS: KK AD: LT ACD: VM/CD Date: 04/16/15 Loaded Date: 04/16/15
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Elsewhere Museums ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY Superb print exhibits and digital projection gallery. W-F, Su 11 am-6 pm; Sa 11 am-7:30 pm; Th 11 am-5 pm. Parking $3.50, $1 after 4:30 pm andy Sa-Su. Free. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, 310.209.4560 AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER Merger of Southwest Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of the American West and the Women of the West Museum. Tu-Su 10 am-5 pm. $4-$10, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists; final home of Space Shuttle Endeavor. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Galleries free; admission for other exhibits and Imax varies. Parking $8. 700 State Drive, Exposition Park, downtown, 323.724.3623 GETTY CENTER Stunning hilltop structure features contemporary gardens, unparalleled collection of art and photography. Tu-Su 10 am-5:30 pm, Sa until 9 pm. Call for hours. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 5 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, 310.330.7300 GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart is a replica of an ancient Roman villa showcasing Roman and Greek antiquities. W-M 10 am-5 pm. Free, parking $15. Advance timed tickets required. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum at L.A. Live explores music, the creative and recording processes, and Grammy Award history. M-F 11:30 am-7:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7:30 pm. $10.95-$12.95, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown Los Angeles, 213.765.6800 HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM 10,000 artifacts on four floors: sets, props, photos, movie posters, scripts and Max Factor’s makeup rooms, where Marilyn Monroe became a blonde and Lucille Ball a redhead. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $12$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 THE HUNTINGTON Stellar library, art collections, botanical gardens and children’s garden. Gallery includes Pinkie and The Blue Boy. M, W-F noon-4:30 pm; Sa-Su 10:30 am-4:30 pm. $8-$23, under 5 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2100 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART Diverse premier collections and Broad Contemporary Art Museum. L M-Tu, Th noon-8 pm, F until 9 pm; Sa-Su 11 am–8 pm. Closed W $10-$15, under 18 free. LACMA West free. LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd.; LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 323.857.6000 MUSEUM OF JURASSIC TECHNOLOGY Subversive venue blends fact and fiction. Th 2-8 pm; F-Su noon6 pm. $5-$8 suggested donation. 9341 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.836.6131 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects from dinosaur fossils to fish. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 2 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., downtown, 213.763.3466 PAGE MUSEUM AT THE LA BREA TAR PITS Ice Age L.A. Daily 9:30 am–5 pm. $5–$11, under 5 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.PAGE PALEY CENTER FOR MEDIA Exhibits, screenings and radio-listening series; tens of thousands of TV programs on view. W-Su noon-5 pm. Free. 465 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.786.1000
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The new chef’s table at Mix, at the Hilton Anaheim. p. 41
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The stunningly expanded Discovery Cube science center in Santa Ana. p. 56
Necklaces at Tiffany at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. 714.540.5330
New On Que Style designer outlet and luxury consignment in Irvine. 949.527.6965
Blushington Beauty Lounge at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. 949.640.5800
The One Louder Double IPA at Barley Forge Brewing Co. in Costa Mesa. p. 70
The bacon side at Arc Restaurant, at South Coast Collection in Costa Mesa. p. 34
Live music on the roof at Mozambique in Laguna Beach. p. 42
A round at Anaheim Hills Golf Course. p. 61
Cheyne Walls Fine Art Photography in Laguna Beach. 949.370.5643
Architecture at new ARTIC (Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center). p. 72 Garden of Eden Gimlet, with absinthe, at Five Crowns in Corona del Mar. p. 40 The Moonshine list at new Lillie’s Q in Brea. p. 34 New Billy Beez indoor arena for kids at Anaheim Gardenwalk. 714.559.9556
where in the world
Grilled croissants at The Gypsy Den in Santa Ana. 714.835.8840 Knott’s Berry Farm’s new Voyage to the Iron Reef attraction. p. 56 New Seaside Soles for women’s shoes and accessories in Laguna Beach. 949.397.4905 Oysters at Waterman’s Harbor in Dana Point. p. 47 Martini flag salutes at 5 pm and sunset at The Beachcomber, on Crystal Cove beach. p. 34
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,
The Den barbershop and shave parlor in Laguna Beach. 949.715.7923 Colognes at Jo Malone at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. 714.545.4632 The Ocean Discovery Tasting Menu at Stonehill Tavern in Dana Point. p. 36 Found objects at new Heirlooms and Hardware at the Lab in Costa Mesa. 7949.351.1970
ClueHoo scavenger hunts in Laguna Beach. 855.466.8546 Trina Turk swimwear at the Trina Turk boutique at Fashion Island. 949.717.7881 Fun flavors at Donut Bar in Fountain Valley. 714.277.3656 Alta Laguna Park (aka Top of the World) in Laguna Beach. 949.497.3311 Fashions and accessories at Jolie at Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach. 949.723.0091 Dark hot chocolate at ChocXO Coffee & Cacao in Costa Mesa. 657.231.6190
Chocolate lavender liquid-nitrogen ice cream at À la Minute in Orange. p. 9
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
#5 JIM COLOMBO, #18 CHEYNE WALLS
WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / orange
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C CO OL LL LE EC CT T II O ON N
T h re e P re m ier S ho p p in g a n d D in ing De s t inat ions on Pac ific C oas t Highway in Newpor t B eac h. T h re e P re m ier S ho p p in g a n d D in ing De s t inat ions on Pac ific C oas t Highway in Newpor t B eac h.
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Canaletto Ristorante Veneto Canaletto Ristorante Veneto CUCINA enoteca CUCINA enoteca FIG & OLIVE FIG & OLIVE Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Mariposa Restaurant at Neiman Marcus Mariposa Restaurant at Neiman Marcus Red O Restaurant Red O Restaurant R+D Kitchen R+D Kitchen Sushi Roku Sushi Roku True Food Kitchen True Food Kitchen
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Gulfstream Gulfstream Tommy Bahama Tommy Island Bahama Grille Island Grille Sprinkles Cupcakes Sprinkles Cupcakes Sprinkles Ice Cream Sprinkles Ice Cream Bristol Farms Bristol Farms
Babette’s Babette’s Bear Flag Fish Company Bear Flag Fish Company Bluefin Restaurant Bluefin Restaurant Javier’s Javier’s Mastro’s Ocean Club Mastro’s Ocean Club Modo Mio Cucina Rustica Modo Mio Cucina Rustica Settebello Pizzeria Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana Napoletana Tamarind Indian Cuisine Tamarind Indian Cuisine
| 1 CUCINA enoteca at Fashion Island | 2 Tommy Bahama Island Grille at Corona del Mar Plaza | 3 Babbette’s at Crystal Cove Shopping Center | 1 CUCINA enoteca at Fashion Island | 2 Tommy Bahama Island Grille at Corona del Mar Plaza | 3 Babbette’s at Crystal Cove Shopping Center
ShopIrvineCompany.com ShopIrvineCompany.com ©The Irvine Company LLC, 2015. Fashion Island and The Coastal Collection are registered trademarks of Irvine Company. ©The Irvine Company LLC, 2015. Fashion Island and The Coastal Collection are registered trademarks of Irvine Company. CC_Where Ad Summer.indd 1 CC_Where Ad Summer.indd Where_Cover_Splits.indd WOC_C1-C4-64.indd 1 14
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