ORANGE COUNTY WINTER
2020
NEW VALENTINO IN COSTA MESA FOGO DE CHÃO IN IRVINE HOPPY DAYS ALL OVER
A CHANGE of SCENE
Twenty new restaurants dramatically alter the county’s culinary landscape.
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Family Vacation: Day of Fun
BAR LOUIE
On today’s itinerary? An amazing afternoon at The District, where there’s something for everyone! Mom and Dad can treat themselves to mouth-watering burgers at Bar Louie before taking the family over to enjoy the ultimate movie going experience at AMC Tustin 14, where state-of-the-art reclining chairs rumble into action, perfect for the latest blockbuster action flick! Then top off the ideal family outing on a sweet note by Indulging In hand-crafted cinnamon rolls at Cinnaholic, where the endless array of toppings are limited only by your imagination.
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WINTER
2020
CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS Hot Dates 6 Where Now 8 Maps 45 30 Things We Love 48 CITY TOURS Metro Cities 16 The Coast 18 South Coast 20 North County 22
10 The look at new ba&sh
WINTER
2020
NEW VALENTINO IN COSTA MESA FOGO DE CHÃO IN IRVINE HOPPY DAYS ALL OVER
A CHANGE of SCENE
Twenty new restaurants dramatically alter the county’s culinary landscape.
ON THE
COVER
Braised turkey/ blackened chile salbutes at Chaak in Tustin. See p. 14. Photo by Anne Watson.
8
THE GUIDE
Caipirinhas at new Fogo de Chão in Irvine
24 Dining 35 Entertainment 36 Attractions 39 Shopping 41 Golf 41 Beaches 42 Nightlife 44 Explore
FEATURE
12 So Many, So Good!
The number of new restaurants that have debuted at or near the top of their respective categories of late—Henry’s for New American eateries, for instance, Kyung Bok Kung for Korean—has dramatically altered the county’s culinary landscape. Here are 20 for 2020. BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
C O N N E CT W I T H U S O N L I N E S O CA L P U L S E . CO M
COURTESY BA&SH, FOGO DE CHÃO
ORANGE COUNTY
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48100_
THE ULTIMATE
SHOPPING EXPERIENCE AN EXTRAORDINARY COLLECTION OF 250 BOUTIQUES AND 30 RESTAURANTS Adidas Originals · Alexander McQueen · Apple Store · Balenciaga · Bottega Veneta · Burberry · Cartier · Chanel Coach · Dior · Diptyque · Dolce&Gabbana · Fendi · Gianvito Rossi · Givenchy · Golden Goose · Gucci · Harry Winston Hermès · Kate Spade New York · Longchamp · Louis Vuitton · Lululemon Athletica · Max Mara · Moncler The North Face · Prada · Roger Vivier · Saint Laurent · Salvatore Ferragamo · Tiffany & Co. · Tory Burch · Vans Din Tai Fung · Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar · Knife Pleat · Marugame Udon · TERRACE by Mix Mix
partial listing
San Diego FWY (405) at Bristol St., Costa Mesa, CA SOUTHCOASTPLAZA.COM 800.782.8888 @SouthCoastPlaza #SCPStyle
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THE
EDITOR’S NOTE
PUBLISHER EDITOR
Jeff Levy
Benjamin Epstein
WINTER
ART DIRECTOR
2020
PRODUCTION ARTIST
Carol Wakano Diana Gonzalez
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
Heidi Schwindt
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Joseph Elliott, Zoe Lorenzo
S
hrimp scampi? What other kind of scampi is there, I asked myself. There are other kinds of scampi, I discovered—scampi actually refers to Norwegian lobster—but before I did, I began to notice redundancies everywhere. Egg omelet. What other kind of omelet is there? Olive tapenade. Garlic aioli. Parmesan cheese and minestrone soup are iffy, too. That said, those not familiar with foreign products might welcome clarification: ciabatta bread, porcini mushrooms. And though a quesadilla by definition uses cheese, specifying cheese quesadilla suggests that there are no other toppings—like a cheese pizza. Is it a tuna sandwich or a tuna fish sandwich? Would you like a tuna fish sandwich on sourdough bread? Porterhouse is short for porterhouse
Pass the Parmesan! I mean, Parmesan cheese. Italian Parmesan cheese, maybe? No! That would be ParmigianoReggiano.
steak but ... why? And what about ice-cream sundae? Forgive me, I am an editor; I am sensitive to extra words. Perhaps the redundancy that came to drive me craziest has to do with the term au jus, which is French for “with juice”—referring to a light sauce, gravy or broth. An erudite-sounding waiter might ask, “Would you like that with au jus? Or a diner requests “with au jus, please.” Translation: “with with juice”—kinda like “duck duck goose.“ If you’ve eaten at all of them, our recap of best new restaurants on page 12 might be redundant; otherwise, have we got some recommendations for you! Find even newer ones on p. 8 and a compendium of 150 on p. 24. Wherever you eat, good bon appetit! —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
DIGITAL EDITOR
Alicia Luchak
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dale Berman, Benjamin Ginsberg, Edwin Santiago, Ashok Sinha REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Kerry Brewer
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Reagan Zorn, Alexandra LaClergue, Jessica Levin Poff BUSINESS MANAGER
Leanne Killian Riggar
CIRCULATION/EVENTS/SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Whitney Lauren Han
MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Dawn Kiko Cheng ADMINISTRATION
Brooke Knetzger NATIONAL SALES Joy Lona 213.596.7211 HONORARY PRESIDENT
Ted Levy
where traveler Orange County
3158 Red Hill Ave., Suite 140 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Phone: 714.825.1700 Fax: 714.825.1710 EMAIL Advertising JLevy@WhereOC.com Editorial Benjamin.Epstein@WhereOC.com Art Art@WhereOC.com Production Ads@WhereOC.com Website Alicia.Luchak@WhereOC.com Circulation Whitney.Han@WhereOC.com Plan ahead for your next visit to Orange County. Subscribe to where traveler: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Whitney Lauren Han 714.825.1700 © 2019 Southern California Media Group. All Rights reserved Published by Southern California Media Group. Printed in the United States. where traveler 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 traveler is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.
Printed in the United States. Circulation audited by Alliance for Audited Media
In Orange County, where traveler magazine is pleased to be a member of Visit Anaheim, CalTIA, Newport Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau, Orange County Concierge Association, and Orange County Visitors Association.
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HOT DATES
Blue Planet
WINTER
EVENTS Jan. 7-12
Blue Man Group, seen by more than 35 million people, brings its Speechless tour to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. The ever-silent bald-and-blue trio presents new compositions, acts and instruments alongside moments of art, music, comedy, social commentary and hilarious absurdity. Also at the center, Feb. 4-9, is Jimmy Buffett’s Welcome to Margaritaville, about a place where people go to get away from it all—and find something they never expected. p. 36
8 GREAT THINGS THIS SEASON HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com
ARIANA GRANDE
DIMENSIONS OF FORM
TO SIR, WITH LOVE
MIRANDA LAMBERT
The multiplatinum Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter stops at the Honda Center as part of her Sweetener tour. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com
Fifty prints by modern master Rufino Tamayo, on loan from the Mixografia gallery in Los Angeles, depict silhouetted figures, celestial bodies and the serpent-god Quetzalcoatl. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600, bowers.com
Inspired by true events and based on the 1967 film, a novice out-of-work engineer turns to teaching in London’s tough East End. Laguna Beach Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787, lagunaplayhouse.com
The country music singersongwriter brings her Wildcard tour to Honda Center. Cody Johnson, whose Gotta Be Me soared on Billboard's country albums chart, and country band Lanco are the openers. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com
LUNAR NEW YEAR
Feb. 20
DUCKS VS. AVALANCHE
The dazzling Beijing-born pianist—Musical America’s Artist of the Year in 2017 —appears in recital at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org
The Anaheim Ducks, under new head coach Dallas Eakins, take to the ice against the Colorado Avalanche. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com
Dec. 13
THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 13-22
American Ballet Theatre brings its spectacular take on the Tchaikovsky chestnut —with new choreography, new sets and costumes and more than 100 performers—to Segerstrom Center for the Arts. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org
Through Jan. 19
Jan. 24-26
The UVSA Tet Festival, the largest such event in the nation, brings food, performances, entertainment and cultural exhibits to the O.C. Fair & Event Center. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.704.2500, tetfestival.org
Jan. 29-Feb. 16
YUJA WANG
Feb. 20
Feb. 21
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WHERE NOW WINTER
DINING
Gaucho Power
Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão brings its renowned churrascaria to beautiful new digs in Irvine Spectrum Center. Continuing a centuries-old tradition, high-quality cuts of meats, notably the signature picanha, are roasted over an open-flame churrasco grill and carved tableside by gaucho chefs. In the dining room is a bas-relief interpretation of Antonio Carigni’s monumental statue O’Laçador. A variety of prix fixe meals begin with a spectacular array of fresh and seasonal offerings at the white Carrara marble market table and feijoada bar. Luxe experiences can be enhanced with a dry-aged 32-ounce tomahawk rib-eye or a 20-ounce Kiwami wagyu New York strip. Don’t-miss sides include polenta fries and caramelized bananas. Enjoy casual fare and cocktails at Bar Fogo and on the patio. Founded 40 years ago, Fogo de Chão has more than 50 locations around the world; this is its third in Southern California. p. 28
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Salads at the Hall in Costa Mesa. Left: Drink Bar at Mess Hall Market in Tustin
COURTESIES: DRINK BAR, SOUTH COAST PLAZA, TAVERN HOUSE. OPPOSITE, FOGO DE CHÃO
FOOD HALLS OF FAME Orange County continues to be a world leader when it comes to those convivial smorgasbords of cool known as food halls. Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana and partner Ahmed Labbate, whose portfolio includes nearby Vaca in Costa Mesa and Broadway in Laguna Beach, unveil The Hall: Global Eatery at South Coast Plaza. The Hall offers craft cocktails and full dining at a crudo and charcuterie bar, a Mediterranean concept featuring baba ghanoush, shawarma and hummus, and a cafe with baked goods, sandwiches and salads (p. 26). Mess Hall Market, at Flight at Tustin Legacy, has 10 tenants. Our picks: tacos at Fonda Moderna and cocktails at Drink Bar—both concepts by Anepalco chef Danny Godinez—and the burgers at L.A. transplant Vaka (p. 33). SteelCraft Garden Grove, an open-air, agriculturally inspired food hall fashioned from 22 shipping containers, also has 10 vendors. Favorites include the burgers and dogs at hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s the Penalty Box, the outstanding selection of beers at Beachwood Brewing and the heavenly macarons at Honey & Butter. There’s a vintage video arcade at SteelCraft, too (p. 27).
Cozy Cool Decades ago, before innovative chef-driven concepts were de rigueur in Orange County, David Wilhelm distinguished himself with venues such as Kachina in Laguna Beach— which served Southwestern cuisine when blue-corn taquitos and green-corn tamales were eye-openers— and subsequently Bistro 201, Barbacoa, Saltwater Grill, Diva, Sorrento Grill, Chat Noir and French 75 with partner
Gregg Solomon. Wilhelm recently sold his stake in Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, which had grown to five locations, to open Tavern House, which overlooks the harbor canals in Newport Beach. Get the right table and you might see gondoliers go by! The restaurant serves a number of Wilhelm’s greatest hits—notably his blood-orange fish carpaccio with Castelvetrano olives, capers and
serranos, his voodoo shrimp martini and his snapper veracruzana—and his way-overthe-top Bananarama dessert: butter pecan ice cream, candied pecans, toffee crumbles, banana pastry cream, fresh bananas and salty caramel sauce for two or more. Executive chef Mike Payne adds his own signature dishes, among them the Maine-lobster-andshrimp club and the Double R Ranch bone-in rib-eye. p. 32
Bananarama for two or more at Tavern House
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WHERE NOW WINTER
SHOPPING
New at South Coast Plaza: (clockwise from above) Valentino for women and men; the look at Isabel Marant; boot at ba&sh.
South Coast Plaza, aka “the ultimate shopping resort,” always seems to be getting more ultimate. Italian designer Valentino—headquartered in Milan, creative direction in Rome, now marking its 60th anniversary—unveils a new boutique in the Nordstrom wing that carries fashions for men as well as for women. The French contingent is even more active. Sandro, luxury Parisian brand known for the accessibility and versatility of its men’s and women’s collections, relocates. Evelyne Chetrite, founder of Sandro 35 years ago and still its creative director, presents a contemporary women’s aesthetic with a hint of androgyny; her son, Ilan, has been rethinking men’s classics with Sandro Homme since 2008. Think Parisian flow at Isabel Marant, known for 25 years for the designer’s pioneering and cosmopolitan spirit, now best known for her shoes. Whether you opt for the glamour of its beautiful red dresses or the chic sophistication of its women’s jumpsuits, ba&sh delivers modern Parisian elegance, too. p. 40
COURTESY VALENTINO, ISABEL MARANT, BA&SH
FASHION FRONT
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So Many, So Good!
The number of new restaurants that have debuted at or near the top of their genres of late—dramatically altering the county's culinary landscape in little more than an academic calendar year—has been extraordinary. Here are 20 for 2020, each offering visitors plenty to write home about. Note: Restaurants within each category are listed alphabetically. —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
Rabbit fricassee at Fable & Spirit in Newport Beach. Opposite: Hummus at Harley Laguna Beach
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Euro Chic
PHOTOS THIS SPREAD ANNE WATSON
Fable & Spirit »Newport Beach The decor beguiles—the brightmustard Dublin front door, deep peacock velvet drapes, black marble bar, dragonfly chandeliers, elegant wallpaper, chevron-patterned wood floors and Instagrammable women’s room—and so does the menu. Both mix originality and Irish nostalgia but—despite the decadent boxty dumplings and don’t-miss Guinness brown bread—aspirations and technique are more worldly. Picks: sugar-snap peas; cracked-pepper bucatini; rabbit fricassee; and grilled Prime rib cap. The cocktails captivate. p. 31 Knife Pleat »Costa Mesa Chef Tony Esnault and restaurateur Yassmin Sarmadi, his wife, are best known for launching acclaimed Church & State and Spring in Los Angeles. At South Coast Plaza, they offer elevated contemporary French fare in a light-filled room in perfect sync with sophisticated boutique neighbors such as Christian Louboutin and Louis Vuitton. Picks: légumes de saison; Crescent duck breast; all desserts; and Sunday afternoon tea. Cocktails are inspired by fashion designers. p. 26
American Dreams
CdM »Corona de Mar The team behind A Restaurant —chef Jonathan Blackford, Hollywood producer McG, partner Jordan Otterbein—unveil an inviting spot with a lively bar scene and, downstairs, a diminutive, dark and disarming speakeasy with photo booth. Star mixologist Ravin Buzzell stars upstairs and down. Picks: Parker House rolls with whipped A5 tallow; white-corn soup; roasted lamb ribs with garam masala; Mary’s organic chicken. p. 24
Harley »Laguna Beach Chef-owner Greg Daniels is adventurous and comforting in equal parts. Decor juxtaposes traditional bookshelves and molecular chandeliers. Love the kitchen-view counter—and those Chambong champagne glasses! Proteins are superbly sourced; local vegetables shine. Picks: shredded Kennebec hash fries with chive aioli; oysters with foamed mignonette; fried halloumi cheese with aquavit; “Get Together” chicken-and-rib Sunday suppers. p. 29
Henry’s Ocean View Dining »Huntington Beach Innovative German-born chef Kenny Seliger helms the finedining room near a new pool at the dramatically expanded Waterfront Beach Resort, and his culinary vision is as elevated as the city has seen. Picks: PEI mussels, nduja broth and ramp kimchi; Mangalitsa pork chop; American Imperial Wagyu steak; and the tableside Conductor cocktail. Jacky Martinez won best pastry chef at the Golden Foodies. p. 27
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The sushi bar at OmG in Santa Ana. Left: Salt-baked whole branzino at Oliver’s Osteria in Laguna Beach
chef Keara Wilson also came from Studio. p. 30 Whitestone »Dana Point Chef Tony Celeste and sous chef Nick Herrera serve up surprises at every turn, presenting dishes at once unusual and accessible, and even some culinary sleight of hand. “BBQ” mushrooms? Cold-smoked, not barbecued. Blue cheese panna cotta masquerades as the plate. Don’t miss: forbidden rice; hay-smoked carrot tacos. Lots of fun fermentation going on in
New Brew BALLAST POINT
»Anaheim (left) Iconic brewery known for its IPAs gets a nautically themed location overlooking Downtown Disney; pub fare including beer-steamed mussels, soyrizo-
the back. Owner Steve Dickus operated the late, great Pizza e Vino for a decade. p. 27
That,s Amore!
Davio’s »Irvine The northern Italian steakhouse—an East Coast concept with locations from New York City to Atlanta—opens in a striking, high-ceilinged spot at Irvine Towers, not far from John Wayne Airport, with whitejacketed service, a bustling bar—and a grab-and-go. Picks: farro-caulilini salad; an improb-
cauliflower tacos and burgers; 50 beer taps; a decorative wall of 400 taps; and another of fascinating label sketches. p. 24 PICKLED MONK
»Fullerton
Abbey ambiance meets brick-and-chandelier decor. The gastropub
presents Cal-global comfort dishes, a self-pour craft-beerand-wine wall with 30 taps ... and a beer vending machine. Picks: Brussels sprouts with bacongochujang jam and blue cheese; and fried-chicken-anddoughnuts. p. 27
able selection of spring rolls; squid-ink conchiglie with Maine lobster; and 30-ounce Prime aged Brandt porterhouse. p. 28 Louie’s by the Bay »Newport Beach Restaurateurs Piero Selvaggio (of late landmark Valentino in Santa Monica) and Ron Salisbury (the Cannery in Newport Beach, El Cholo chain) partner at a most impressive and cordial waterfront steakhouse. Selvaggio is without a doubt the host with the most. Picks: wild mushroom tortino with saffron fonduta; grilled octopus and squid-ink-infused fregola; cioppino; osso buco with saffron risotto; and classic cocktails. p. 31 Oliver's Osteria »Laguna Beach Owner-chef Erik De Marchi’s modest and endearing spot near Laguna’s art festival grounds is inspired by the cuisine he grew up with in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. De Marchi’s résumé includes acclaimed Angelini Osteria in
COURTESY OLIVER'S OSTERIA; NIYAZ PIRANI; COURTESY BALLAST POINT. OPPOSITE: PHOTOS ANNE WATSON
Ocean at Main »Laguna Beach After nine years heading up Studio at the nearby Montage, chef Craig Strong offers his coastal cuisine in a stylish redo of a 1940s-era bank building; the charming patio retains the original Spanish-tile fountain and murals. Picks: chilled Kusshi oysters with granité; short-rib “cigars” with blackpepper ash; vibrantly green oxtail kale risotto; lobster fettucine; roasted beef tenderloin; pizzas; and pizza-oven-baked brioche at brunch. Star pastry
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Fab Casual ARC BUTCHER & BAKER
»Newport Beach
This spot defies easy categorization. There are a few seats, but basically it’s the most beautiful takeout ever, whether you’re after a.m. doughnut holes, a remarkable burger or evening steaks. p. 30 CULTIVATION KITCHEN
»Anaheim
The sunflower hemp hummus with za’atar spice and the kombuchas are reason enough to frequent this greenhouseinspired shovel-to-fork concept next to Anaheim Packing House. p. 24
Cochinita pibil at Chaak in Tustin. Below: the Dior cocktail at Knife Pleat in Costa Mesa
chef Vincente Espinoza amid smart Mayan-inspired decor. Picks: pumpkin seed dip; cherrywood-smoked Muscovyduck salbute; puffy tortilla with 24-hour cochinita pibil; and Prime Aspen Ridge skirt steak. The tar-like charred habanero salsa on every table is alone worth a visit. p. 33
Los Angeles; his son, Oliver, was born the day the restaurant opened. Rigatoni al cacio e pepe may be the county’s best; saltbaked whole branzino; frittatina e caponata at brunch. p. 30
Global Outlook: Way Up
Chaak »Tustin Gabbi Patrick—who also owns Michelin Bib Gourmanddesignated Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen in Orange—explores her Yucatecan roots with
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Kyung Bok Kung »Buena Park The first outpost in the United States of this luxury South Korean chain presents elaborate feasts showcasing Korean cuisine and stellar meats in elegant digs, served up by a personable staff. The Premium Beef Combination includes two stews, seven cuts of meat—with A5 Wagyu an option—and nine other dishes. A la carte ordering is also possible, and there are bansang lunch specials. Patrons come dressed up. p. 24 OmG Omakase by Gino
»Santa Ana Gino is Gino Choi, the owner and sushi chef of a 10-seat,
omakase-only spot in Santa Ana’s happening downtown. The set-price menu—three appetizers, sashimi, 10 pieces of nigiri sushi, two signature dishes and dessert—is “for serious sushi lovers.” Offerings—flown in daily from Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo as well as local seafood delicacies—change nightly. Uni pasta topped with truffle and pollock roe is a signature. It books months in advance—but cancellations happen. p. 33
MARUGAME UDON
»Costa Mesa
More than 1,000 cafeteria-style stores worldwide offer made-toorder, freshly kneaded and boiled noodles, toppings, and a seemingly endless array of sides at elaborate tempura and rice-ball stations. p. 26 TAQUIERO TACO PATIO
»Irvine
Fresh handmade tortillas, addictive salsa macha, distinctively folded tacos, superb mulitas and Tijuana craft beers in a center near the UC Irvine campus make this spot irresistible. p. 29
Terrace by Mix Mix
»Costa Mesa Chef Ross Pangilinan of acclaimed Mix Mix in Santa Ana opened at South Coast Plaza, serving small plates that showcase his eclectic style— French, Italian, Filipino—and refined technique. As the name suggests, it’s mostly on a covered terrace, but inside are a small wine bar, a quick-service counter and the open kitchen. Picks: albacore tostada; crispy pork belly; agnolotti; and tropical verrine. The three-course express lunch is a steal. p. 26
The Wedge at Arc Butcher & Baker
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
Metro Cities COSTA MESA On one side of Bristol Street is South Coast Plaza, whose $2 billion in annual sales is highest among U.S. shopping destinations. On the other is O.C.’s center of culture—two concert halls and its largest repertory theater—and business high-rises. The late Henry Segerstrom and his family founded South Coast Plaza in 1967 on a lima bean field where as a youth he’d driven a tractor. Fifty years later, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. In fact, the state-designated tourist attraction boasts the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers. Among the most spectacular is Louis Vuitton; Chalk & Vermilion’s Fine Art pop-up is up now. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and new Knife Pleat. Former Bravo Top Chef runner-up Amar Santana opens The Hall: Global Eatery presently. Across Bristol Street are Santana’s Vaca;
Water Grill; and, at O.C.’s premier performing-arts campus, Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, built in 1986 mainly with Segerstrom money on Segerstrom land, includes 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall, presenting the best in dance and Broadway musicals; the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, a 2,000-seat facility designed by Cesar Pelli; and the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza. Founders Hall and Samueli Theater are more intimate. The campus is also home to South Coast Repertory and in two years the Orange County Museum of Art. To the west is the South Coast Collection of design showrooms such as Design Within Reach. Foodies frequent Arc restaurant, a Saturday farmers market and, among dozens of vendors at OC Mix, Taco María—the Los Angeles Times’ 2018 restaurant of the year and one of the county’s two Michelin-starred restaurants. Moulin cafe-bakery is new.
South on Bristol are The Lab and The Camp shopping and dining centers. The Lab has the kinds of shops you’d likely find on L.A.’s trendy Melrose Avenue—and O.C.’s other Michelinstarred spot, Hana Re for sushi. Opposite is the Camp, set amid wood and aluminum, and relocated Old Vine Kitchen + Bar. Dine-and-play center The Triangle offers Keys on Main dueling pianos and top-tier Time Nightclub. OC Fair & Event Center hosts the county fair and Pacific Amphitheatre concerts.
GREAT FIND
Modern Mercantile >Like the mercantiles of long ago, or a neighborhood general store, Fleur de Lys is filled with items you might need or not know you need. But it’s also a lifestyle boutique featuring unusual gifts and items from coveted lines including Nest Fragrances, Sugarfina, Sugar Paper stationery, Houston Llew and the Luxuriate. 369 E. 17th St., No. 14, Costa Mesa, 949.548.0810, shopfleurdelys.com
SANTA ANA Arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Grand Central Art Center. Playground, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar and OmG Omakase by Gino make for one of the county’s most exciting dining scenes. Find a dozen innovative fast-casual dining concepts at 4th Street Market. Food hall McFadden Public Market offers vintage arcade games and two bars. The neighborhood’s best bar? Lola Gaspar. The Yost Theater concert venue is an East End anchor. Bowers Museum, founded about 80 years ago, mounts blockbuster exhibitions in collaboration with the world’s major museums. Visitors can also view pre-Columbian artifacts, Pacific Island art, an exhibit of local history and dine at the Patina Group’s Tangata. Discovery Cube science center’s tilting cube is perched
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: DALE BERMAN, BENJAMIN GINSBERG, COURTESY IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER, DALE BERMAN.
THE ARTS AND SHOPPING HEART OF THE COUNTY: COSTA MESA, SANTA ANA, TUSTIN AND IRVINE.
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THIS PAGE: Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. OPPOSITE: The Lab in Costa Mesa, Irvine Spectrum Center, Bowers Museum in Santa Ana
INSIDER TIPS
Rise and Shine
huge new ice skating facility; you can ride 400 feet up in the tethered orange balloon visible from the freeways. The restored blacksmith shop and general store of Old Town Irvine (Sand Canyon Avenue and Burt Road, 949.660.9112) now house a hotel and restaurants.
The Metro cities—Costa Mesa in particular— are the hot destination for new breakfast spots. Here are the five newest.
INSIDER TIPS, JOBERTO LEE. OPPOSITE: GREAT FIND, TARYN HAYS
TUSTIN
seemingly inches off Interstate 5. MainPlace houses Macy’s, more than 150 shops, a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball court and swimming pool, and Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ. Intimate Santa Ana Zoo is in Prentice Park; highlights include a primate exhibit and children’s zoo. On the Irvine border, and sharing that city’s vibe, is John Wayne Airport, whose pleasant ambience and ease of departure and arrival make it vastly superior to LAX.
IRVINE Irvine offers a relatively problemfree world carved from the Irvine Co.’s land holdings. Irvine Spectrum Center’s Giant Wheel can be seen for miles from the 5, 405 and 133 freeways. The center’s 150 shops, many entertainment-
related, restaurants such as Habana for Cuban and Cucina Enoteca for Cal-Ital, and the nation’s most visited movie complex draw more visitors annually than Disneyland. UC Irvine’s Irvine Barclay Theatre presents music, dance and theatrical events. Nearby is the UCI Arboretum (Jamboree Road and Campus Drive, 949.824.5833). San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (949.261.7963) offers 10 miles of trails through coastal freshwater marshlands. The Irvine Museum houses Joan Irvine Smith’s collection of California Impressionist art on the ground floor of an office building. Near John Wayne Airport is the innovative Trade Food Hall; superb Ootoro Sushi is its finedining anchor. Orange County Great Park offers a farmers market, an arts complex and a
Forbes magazine has listed Tustin, which has preserved many of its 1870s buildings, in its Top 25 places “to live well.” The District at Tustin Legacy, at Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, is an eatertainment center with restaurants including J. Zhou Oriental Cuisine and new The Yellow Chilli, a cineplex with seat warmers (and some seat rumblers), and bowling at Bowlmor. Union Market offers concepts including Stowaway for tiki drinks and new Roba Noodle. New food hall Mess Hall Market is nearby, near twin hangars, 1,000 feet long and 17 stories tall, that once housed airships. The Market Place (714.730.4124), on Jamboree Road off Interstate 5, is older and even more sprawling. Though often called Tustin Market Place, part of it is actually in Irvine. Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen is a highlight. 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 45.
Breakfast Republic 4213 Campus Drive Irvine 949.379.7177 breakfastrepublic.com
The Broken Yolk Cafe 2701 Harbor Blvd. Suite E6 Costa Mesa 657.231.6708 thebrokenyolkcafe.com
Outpost Kitchen (above) 1792 Monrovia Ave. Costa Mesa 949.873.5123 outpostkitchen.com
Toast Kitchen + Bakery 1769 Newport Blvd. Costa Mesa 949.873.5057 toastkitchenbakery.com
Utopia European Caffé The District 2489 Park Ave. Tustin 714.352.5789 utopiacaffe.com
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
The Coast NEWPORT BEACH Newport Beach and its environs have been called California’s Riviera. Beaches and bougainvillea are a backdrop to yachts and dream homes, from cottages to some of the nation’s most expensive real estate. Its retail center is Newport Center, near Jamboree Road, Coast Highway and MacArthur Boulevard. Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s anchor elegant outdoor shopping destination Fashion Island, which recently passed the half-century mark. Among highlights are Gorjana jewelry, ViX Paula Hermanny swimwear and the Lot luxury cinema and restaurant. Top dining options include Sushi Roku and Fig & Olive. 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 at Newport Aquatic Center (949.646.7725). Moe B’s Watersports at Newport Dunes
(949.279.4507) rents kayaks and electric boats. Newport Beach has the world’s largest small-boat harbor. Mariner’s Mile, on Coast Highway, is lined with luxurycar showrooms and restaurants such as Louie’s by the Bay, The Winery and Pizzeria Mozza. Private charters, narrated harbor cruises and dining cruises depart from Mariner’s Mile as well as from Balboa Pavilion (see Balboa, below) and pass huge luxury abodes. All manner of watercraft rentals are possible, from canoes and kayaks to sailboats, motorboats and surrey-fringed electric boats. The “beach” in Newport Beach includes Balboa and Newport piers, great sandy expanses and one of the cleanest and most colorful bike paths and boardwalks anywhere. Harborside pedestrian shopping destination Lido Marina Village features Elyse Walker boutique, Paper Sugar stationery and Nobu and Lido Bottle Works restaurants. Beguiling new Fable
& Spirit restaurant is opposite. The action never stops around Newport Pier, at McFadden Square off Newport Boulevard. The Dory Fishing Fleet (1889) leaves in the wee hours of the morn; visit the open-air fish market after sunrise, then have breakfast at the Dory Deli.
BALBOA To reach the Balboa Pier, continue southeast on Newport Boulevard (its name changes to Balboa Boulevard at 22nd Street), turn right on Palm Street and park in the metered lot.
GREAT FIND
Down by the Sea >Seaside Gallery and Goods feels like a pop-up seven days a week. In fact, it is a coastally inspired collective of nearly 30 artists and artisans as well as diverse vendors offering women’s clothing and jewelry, home decor, textiles, teas, baby goods and gifts for men. Workshops in the courtyard include ukulele and calligraphy. 124 Tustin Ave., Newport Beach, 949.290.7249, seasidegalleryandgoods.com
The Wedge, where the peninsula meets the harbor jetty, is one of the world’s most famous bodysurfing and bodyboarding spots. Currents and riptides can be dangerous; don’t go in unless you know what you’re doing. ExplorOcean is a nautical museum. On the harbor side of Balboa Peninsula is the Balboa Pavilion, a 1905 cupola-topped structure that is the depot for boat excursions: harbor tours, whale-watching trips and Santa Catalina cruises. As classic popsong lyrics attest, Catalina, known for its beaches, buffalo and glass-bottom boats, is “26 miles across the sea.” The city of Avalon is 75 minutes away via the catamaran Catalina Flyer. The Balboa Island Ferry is a three-car shuttle between docks on the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, a community featuring charming cottages, shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants, notably Mr. G’s Bistro and Royal Hen gastropub. Marine
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BENJAMIN GINSBERG, ASHOK SINHA, COURTESY LIDO MARINA VILLAGE, BENJAMIN GINSBERG
WIDE SANDY BEACHES, PIERS, THE WORLD’S LARGEST PLEASURE-BOAT HARBOR AND SURF CITY USA.
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CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Pacific City in Huntington Beach, Duffy Boat off Balboa Island, Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach and Huntington Beach City Beach
INSIDER TIPS
Swimmingly Newport Beach offers a bounty of distinctive beachwear boutiques.
Avenue is its only nonresidential street. Try a custom-dipped Balboa Bar.
NSIDER TIP, COURTESY AGUA BENDITA
CORONA DEL MAR Corona del Mar, whose streets are named for flowers, has expansive beaches and some of the country’s most expensive real estate. Upscale destinations at Corona del Mar Plaza, near Fashion Island, include Diane’s Beachwear, Tommy Bahama and VICI boutiques and gourmet pantry Baker & Olive. On East Coast Highway south of MacArthur Boulevard, is Sherman Library & Gardens, offering 2,000 plant species on two acres. Consider a repast at Café Jardin or the Tea Garden Crêperie. Coast Highway is lined with design showrooms, rug dealers and boutiques. You’ll find bodysurfing, volleyball, fire pits, all amenities
and Tackle Box gourmet “grub shack” at Corona del Mar State Beach. Picturesque Little Corona Beach, setting for countless family photos, is just south. South of Corona del Mar is Newport Coast. Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers boutiques such as Atelier 7918 and restaurants Bluefin for sushi, Mastro’s Ocean Club for seafood and French bistro Marché Moderne. Nearby are Crystal Cove State Park, with its miles of sandy coves and miles of trails, and gorgeous Pelican Hill Golf Club.
HUNTINGTON BEACH Though Surf City USA retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks identity, luxury hotels and finedining options have made for a dramatic transformation. Main Street is a promenade with lots of surf and beachwear
shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Pacific City offers acres of retail and dining, including West of Camden boutique and LSXO and Bluegold restaurants. Hip lounges include The Bungalow and, atop Tanner’s, Treehouse. Next to historic Huntington Beach Pier is Duke’s restaurant; the plaza hosts live music and farmers markets. Three beaches—Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach—are popular for surfing and volleyball and for their fire rings. Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve (714.846.1114) boasts 200 species of migratory birds in a salt-marsh setting with a 1.5-mile loop trail. Inland, at Talbert Avenue and Goldenwest Street, is Huntington Central Park; it includes Shipley Nature Center (714.842.4772), an equestrian center, two “lakes” and the Central Library (714.842.4481). 5 Points Plaza tenants include Loft, CloudMover Day Spa and Vans; there’s a dog-friendly barking lot. Doughnuts at Duck Donuts are made to order. Draws at Bella Terra shopping destination include outdoorsports specialist REI and Solita for tacos and margaritas. Pinot’s Palette—paint while you enjoy wine or beer—is new. Nearby Old World Village is a hub for all things German, notably dachshund races.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 45.
Beach Bunny Swimwear 2210 Newport Blvd. Suite 104, 949.873.5711 beachbunnyswimwear.com
Diane’s Beachwear Corona del Mar Plaza 920 Avocado Ave. 949.759.6880 dianesbeachwear.com
San Lorenzo Bikinis Fashion Island 401 Newport Center Drive 949.759.1504 sanlorenzobikinis.com
Seafolly Fashion Island 1135 Newport Center Drive 949.706.7690 seafolly.com
SwimSpot Fashion Island 259 Newport Center Drive 949.706.2996 swimspot.com
ViX Paula Hermanny Fashion Island (above) 259 Newport Center Drive 949.600.4490 vixpaulahermanny.com
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South Coast LAGUNA BEACH Admire the sculptures at Laguna College of Art + Design as you enter the county’s original art colony along Laguna Canyon Road. In fact, it is easy to spend a day along the thoroughfare before ever entering the city proper, especially during the three summer art festivals— Festival of Arts, Laguna Art-AFair and Sawdust Art Festival— and renowned “living tableaux” presentation Pageant of the Masters. Acclaimed Laguna Playhouse offers comedic and profound fare year-round. Nestled among them at the Hive are Oliver's Osteria and McClain Cellars. Laguna Canyon Road becomes Broadway, then ends at Coast Highway. Turn either way and you’ll find galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Laguna Art Museum offers modern and contemporary art, mostly by California painters, explores pop culture and displays art from Laguna’s past. Steps away are coastal vistas at Heisler Park and a stretch of
called North Gallery Row, where you’ll find Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953) and tiki-chic Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill. Broadway ends at Main Beach. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a playground and a boardwalk—and it’s opposite Laguna’s downtown, aka the Village, whose distinctive shops and galleries include the sculpture garden at Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery (326 Glenneyre St., 888.972.5543). Ocean at Main restaurant is new. South along Coast Highway are other top dining options, including hockey great Teemu Selänne’s Selanne Steak Tavern, globally inspired Sapphire 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 California coast’s “only romantic spot,” noting its “grandeur” and “solemnity.” You’ll find grandeur
but little solemnity along Harbor Drive, bustling with boaters, diners, shoppers and those headed to see the tall ships in port. In addition to its sand and shore, Doheny State Beach offers five acres of lawn. Families picnic, couples rent bicycles. An interpretive center focuses on the underwater Doheny State Marine Life Refuge. The beach hosts a blues festival in May and, during the summer, Lobsterfest, a surf competition and outrigger racing. Fourth of July, the busiest day of the year, features fireworks launched from a barge.
GREAT FIND
It’s Lit! >Laguna Candles, at the Hive, specializes in heirloom artisan candles, custom creations signed by the artist and infused with natural oil fragrances designed by a master perfumer. Among other collections, the amber-glass Mindfulness series has a mahogany palo santo scent. Also offered: travel candles and candle-making classes. 821-A Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.680.7073, lagunacandles.com
At the end of the harbor’s rocky ledge are tide pools, public benches and basking seals. Dana Point Harbor has 2,500 slips for vessels of all sizes, three yacht clubs, a fishing pier and Dana Wharf Sportfishing, which offers whale-watching trips. The Ocean Institute displays the Pilgrim, a full-sized replica of the brig on which Dana sailed. Wharf highlights include White Pelican Gallery for Native American jewelry (34475 Golden Lantern St., 949.240.1991) and the Harbor Grill seafooder. North of town are luxury hotels featuring superior dining—Bourbon Steak at the Monarch Beach Resort and Raya at the Ritz-Carlton—and pristine Salt Creek Beach Park.
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO There’s no beach, but there’s lots of history, style and charm. Mission San Juan Capistrano, the birthplace of Orange County, was founded by Father Junípero
CLOCKWISE: EDWIN SANTIAGO, ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, COURTESY OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE, ASHOK SINHA
LAGUNA BEACH, DANA POINT, SAN CLEMENTE AND NEARBY SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Dana Point Harbor, the Outlets at San Clemente and Laguna Beach gallery. OPPOSITE: Mission San Juan Capistrano.
INSIDER TIPS
Art Walk Laguna Beach offers more than 100 galleries. Here are some favorites.
rious residences, many with their own stables, surround the city. Eight miles to the east is Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park (33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210).
INSIDER TIPS, BENJAMIN GINSBERG
SAN CLEMENTE
Serra in 1776, the same year America was born. It took nine years to build its Great Stone Church, completed in 1806; it took one minute for an earthquake to destroy it six years later, killing 40 people. The priests left the ruins, a dramatic benchmark of the struggle to build California. The dome atop the nearby rail station was made with stones from the ruins. Priests still celebrate Mass in the Serra Chapel; the original adobe walls shelter a magnificent Baroque altarpiece decorated with 52 carved goldleaf angels. The 10-acre site is filled with walkways, gardens, fountains and exhibits. Mission events include the renowned Swallows Day Parade in March. Just across the train tracks is Los Rios Historic District. A stroll along Los Rios Street is a most pleasant experience; 31 homes,
the earliest dating to 1794, look as they did in centuries past. Near the train station is the O’Neill Museum (31831 Los Rios St., 949.493.8444), home to the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. The train goes right by Ramos House Café, which offers a memorable breakfast in an 1881 board-and-batten house. Camino Capistrano is lined with shops and restaurants. One of South County’s most popular taverns is the colorful Swallow’s Inn (31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188). For a different kind of nightlife, consider the nearby Camino Real Playhouse (31776 El Camino Real, 949.489.8082). San Juan Capistrano Regional Library (31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752) is a postmodern masterpiece by architect Michael Graves. San Juan Capistrano is the county’s equestrian center; luxu-
La Casa Pacifica, site of President Richard Nixon’s Western White House, has long since been broken up into million-dollar homes. But you can still see Casa Romantica (415 Avenida Granada, 949.498.2139), once the residence of the city’s founder, oil entrepreneur Ole Hanson. On a hillside overlooking San Clemente Pier, it’s the site of the city’s Cultural Center and Gardens, offering galleries and a popular veranda. From the pier, the sun sets between Catalina Island and the Dana Point bluffs—just behind the surfers. Metrolink and Amtrak trains run alongside the beach and stop at the pier. Find antique stores, galleries and dining on El Camino Real and Avenida del Mar. The Outlets at San Clemente is a shopping destination that marries luxury and discount. Tenants include MadaLuxe Vault, Guess and Hurley; Rockwell Bakery is new. Talega Golf Club, above the city, was designed with input from Masters champion Fred Couples (949.369.6226). Blue Eyed Girl boutique and Sundried Tomato bistro are among the draws at Talega Village Center.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 45.
Whaling Wall at Wyland Galleries
Dawson Cole Fine Art 326 Glenneyre St. 888.972.5543 dawsoncolefineart.com
JoAnne Artman Gallery 326 N. Coast Hwy. 949.510.5481 joanneartmangallery.com
Kush Fine Art 210A Forest Ave. 949.376.8017 vladimirkush.com
National Geographic 218 Forest Ave. 949.627.8232 natgeofineart.com
Ruth Mayer Gallery 380 S. Coast Hwy. 949.494.8185 ruthmayer.com
Salt Fine Art 346 N. Coast Hwy. 949.715.5554 saltfineart.net
Wyland Galleries 509 S. Coast Hwy. 800.995.2631 wylandgalleries.com
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North County ANAHEIM Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is open! Since Walt Disney opened the Disneyland main gate in 1955, families have made the pilgrimage to “The Happiest Place on Earth,” starting with the yesteryear pleasures of Main Street, U.S.A. The newest land exponentially expands galactic encounters at the park; Oga’s Cantina offers cocktails, a park first. A mountain range of thrill rides includes Space Mountain, Matterhorn Bobsleds and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Guests enter sister park Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, which evokes the era when Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles; in its Carthay Circle Theatre is an elegant restaurant. The Pixar Pier area is new; its Incredicoaster replaces California Screamin’. Guardians of the Galaxy— Mission: Breakout! is new, too. World of Color—with its choreographed fountains, lasers, music, film and animation—and Soarin’ Over California never get old.
There’s no admission to adjacent Downtown Disney, a promenade lined with shops and entertainment venues such as Splitsville Luxury Lanes. Eateries range from fast to fancy; Ballast Point for top-tier beer and Black Tap for outrageous shakes are new, Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria newly renovated. Eatertainment destination STC Anaheim GardenWalk offers more than a dozen eateries including Grasslands and Roy’s Restaurant; nightlife, notably House of Blues Anaheim; shops including Red Apparel and Harley-Davidson; and attractions such as Mission Escape Games and Go VR Gaming. Acclaimed restaurant and saloon The Ranch is nearby. Honda Center is home to Anaheim Ducks ice hockey team and L.A. Kiss football and hosts touring artists such as Ariana Grande. American Sports Centers Anaheim, the world’s largest indoor court facility, features 34 volleyball courts that convert into 25 basketball courts.
Nearby is the architecturally stunning Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). At Angel Stadium, “the Big A,” majorleague baseball rules when the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play; arena rock acts often take over when the team is away. Anaheim Convention Center’s Grand Plaza is always abuzz. The Anaheim Packing District includes hip shops and restaurants on Center Street Promenade. The historic Anaheim Packing House offers foodie vendors of all kinds. Our
GREAT FIND
Takes the Cake >Hungarian chimney cake—kürtöskalács—is a churro-like cylindrical bread, crispy outside, hot and fluffy inside. Elaborate creations such as Oreo Overload and Fashionista at House of Chimney Cakes start with chimney-cake cones filled with ice cream or vegan Dole Whip; build your own with various toppings, fillings and flavored cones. 173 Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, 714.603.7859, thehouseofchimneycakes.com
favorites include Adya for Cal-Indian, Urbana for Mexican, Georgia’s for Southern and the hidden Blind Rabbit speakeasy for cocktails. MAKE, in a 1919 marmalade factory opposite, adds Unsung Brewing Co. and other beverage vendors. Muzeo is a small museum nearby. Anaheim Ice is open for public skating.
BUENA PARK Roller coaster and Old West enthusiasts flock to Knott’s Berry Farm, a theme park with roots dating back to 1934, when Walter and Cordelia Knott opened a roadside stand and a fried-chicken diner. Diners still feast on drumsticks and berry pie at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner; shoppers stroll California Marketplace and admire the Independence Hall replica. Inside the park is a daunting collection of roller coasters including Xcelerator, which rockets to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds,
SPREAD CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BENJAMIN GINSBERG, EDWIN SANTIAGO, DALE BERMAN, EDWIN SANTIAGO
WORLD-CLASS ATTRACTIONS MAKE IT THE GATEWAY TO ENDLESS FUN AND JOYFUL MEMORIES.
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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Disney California Adventure, Old Town Orange, diners at Anaheim Packing House, Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
INSIDER TIPS
On Tap Something is always brewing in Anaheim! Here are the city’s newest breweries.
Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove is a must-tour for architecture buffs. To the south in Westminster are the eateries and shops of Little Saigon.
INSIDER TIPS COURTESY BRUERY TERREUX. GREAT FINDS COURTESY HOUSE OF CHIMNEY CAKES
FULLERTON
and dive coaster HangTime. GhostRider is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters. Less hair-raising are Ghost Town and the kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. Explore bygone eras on Beach Boulevard. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament revisits an 11th-century castle. Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry; serfs and wenches serve a four-course feast. A banquet at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure fortifies guests for skirmishes aboard a replicated 18th-century galleon in an indoor lagoon. Teatro Martini dinner cabaret for adults is adjacent. Elegant new Korean restaurant Kyung Bok Kung serves elaborate feasts.
ORANGE Old Towne Orange often appears in movies, thanks to its
preserved pre-1940 homes and buildings. Anchored by a picturesque traffic circle—oval, actually—at Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street, the district is on the National Register of Historic Places. It includes eateries such as Haven and antique shops. 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. Its Musco Center for the Arts and nearby Hilbert Museum of California Art opened in 2016. To the east are Orange Hill Restaurant and Irvine Park’s Orange County Zoo and narrow-gauge train. Draws at The Outlets at Orange include high-end discount retailers Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th and Nordstrom Rack. Families head for Lucky Strike Lanes and Vans Skatepark.
Visitors to Fullerton, home of California State University, Fullerton, gravitate to the bars and boutiques in the historic core along Harbor Boulevard. Near Commonwealth Avenue, a short stroll from the train station, are night spots and restaurants including new Pickled Monk. Significant sights include the Fullerton Museum Center, offering dynamic exhibits such as a gallery devoted to Leo Fender, native son and pioneer of the electric guitar. The museum offers maps pinpointing fine examples of architectural styles within walking distance. The stately Muckenthaler Cultural Center hosts varied design and art events and exhibits. The Fullerton Arboretum at CSUF offers streams, trails and a restored Victorian cottage. In Yorba Linda is Richard M. Nixon’s birthplace. The tiny home and impressive rose garden are at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Among exhibits is a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office. Birch Street Promenade in Brea offers shops, restaurants such as Brunos Italian Kitchen and stand-up comedy. Brea Mall is huge; its dining options include HaiDiLao Fusion Shabu.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 45.
Asylum Brewing 2970 E. La Palma Ave. Suite D, 949.396.2099 asylumbrewincompany.com
Ballast Point 1540 S. Disneyland Drive 714.687.9813 ballastpoint.com
Bruery Terreux (above) 1174 N. Grove St. 714.996.6258 brueryterreux.com
Golden Road Brewing 2210 E. Orangewood Ave. 714.912.4015 goldenroad.la
Hoparazzi Brewing Co. 2910 La Palma Ave. 714.204.0655
Towne Park Brew 1566 W. Lincoln Ave. 714.844.2492 towneparkbrew.com
Unsung Brewing Co. 500 S. Anaheim Blvd. 714.406.3098 unsungbrewing.com
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THE GUIDE / DINING ANAHEIM Guidelines
ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE > Food Hall $$ Historic Sunkist citrus hub hosts two dozen foodie vendors, including Adya for Cal-Indian, Georgia’s for Southern, Urbana for Mexican, Black Sheep GCB for grilled cheese, and Blind Rabbit speakeasy. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714.635.1350 Map H10
BALLAST POINT > Brewery $$ New. Brewery renowned for its IPAs offers American fare and an array of beers on its sleek second-level perch with bar, lounge and rooftop patio. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1540 S. Disneyland Drive, 714.687.9813 Map I10 THE CATCH > Seafood $$ Sleek spot popular with sports fans as well as concertgoers—it’s near Angel Stadium and Honda Center. B, L, D (daily). 2100 E. Katella Ave., 714.935.0101 Map I10
Golden Repasts
The Cellar just marked its 50th anniversary at Villa del Sol (formerly the Hotel California) in Fullerton, and it’s as if time has stood still. Owners Ryan and Brianne Dudley have maintained the restaurant’s quirky grandeur. French classics are served under silver domes in surroundings reminiscent of Pirates of the Caribbean; in fact, the subterranean venue was designed by the same craftsmen who created the Disney attraction. Signatures include escargots with straw mushrooms; bone marrow with apricot mustard and anchovy panko; chateaubriand for two; and chocolate souffle with salted caramel anglaise. The Cellar is known both for its wines—it’s the first U.S. restaurant to be named ambassador for Barons de Rothschild wines and Champagnes—and its cocktails, notably an array of old-fashioneds. p. 27
CULTIVATION KITCHEN > California $$ New. The sunflower hemp hummus with za’atar spice and the kombuchas are reason enough to frequent this greenhouse-inspired concept. B, L, D (daily). Farmers Park, 350 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714.603.7076 Map H10 HANAGI > Japanese $$ New. Third location of restaurant in Sapporo, Japan, and Guam opens at Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel. Tricolor carpaccio, bento basket, shabu shabu, castella cake. L, D (daily). 900 S. Disneyland Drive, 844.442.6244 Map I10 HOUSE OF BLUES > Southern $$ Restaurant and bar at spectacular concert venue offers voodoo shrimp, Nashville hot fried chicken salad, smokehouse St. Louis ribs. Sunday Gospel Brunch. L, D (daily). 400 W. Disney Way, 714.778.2583 Map I10 JT SCHMID’S > Brewpub $$ Restaurant and brewery offers wood-fired pizzas, Prime steaks, burgers, jambalaya and sashimi. L, D (daily). 2610 E. Katella Ave., 714.634.9200 Map I11 MCDONALD’S > Quick Bites $ By the numbers it’s America’s favorite hamburger restaurant; this one’s near the Disney theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., 714.491.0563, and 70 other county locations. Map I10 MIX > Eclectic $$ Hilton Anaheim executive chef Frederic Castan oversees the globally influenced menu and impressive chef’s table in the kitchen. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, 714.740.44121 Map I10 NAPA ROSE > California $$$ Wine country at Disney Resort celebrates beauty in the bottle and nature’s bounty. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1313 S. Disneyland Drive, 714.635.2300 Map I10 NAPLES RISTORANTE E PIZZERIA > Italian $$ Newly renovated two-story eatery. Watch the pizzaioli on the first floor and views of the bustling promenade from the beautiful second. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1510 Disneyland Drive, 714.776.6200 Map I10 THE RANCH > American $$$ Sophisticated restaurant with adjacent super-fun saloon. Chef Michael Rossi offers Tasmanian wagyu carpaccio, 24-hour-braised short rib, behemoth cowboy rib-eye; try David Rossi’s desserts. Most produce from its own farm. D (nightly). 1025 E. Ball Road, 714.817.4200 Map I11
Index Anaheim....................... 24 Brea.............................. 24 Buena Park.................. 24 Corona del Mar............ 24 Costa Mesa/South Coast Metro.................. 26 Dana Point.................... 26 Fountain Valley............. 27 Fullerton....................... 27 Garden Grove................ 27
Huntington Beach........ 27 Irvine............................. 28 Laguna Beach.............. 29 Newport Beach............ 30 Newport Coast............. 32 Orange.......................... 32 San Clemente............... 32 San Juan Capistrano... 33 Santa Ana..................... 33 Tustin............................ 33
(V) = Vegan/Vegetarian
TRU GRITS > Eclectic $$ Chef Theresa Lin Cheng’s modern American fare with Asian influences. B, L, D (daily). Four Points by Sheraton Anaheim, 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., 714.758.0900 Map J11
BREA BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN > Italian $$$ Memorable dishes such as wild-boar-sausage bucatini, caramel-chocolate budino, house-made limoncello. D (nightly). 210 W. Birch St., 714.257.1000 Map A3 CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN > Mexican $$ Chicken flautas, seafood caldo, guajillo-brasied short-rib enchilada, superb flan amid stylish design. L, D (M-Sa); Br (Su). 110 W. Birch St., 714.255.1040 Map A3 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY > Seafood $$$ Seafood and steaks, oyster bar and award-winning brews. Also known for elaborate brunch. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 101 E. Imperial Hwy., 714.257.0101 Map A3
BUENA PARK IL GARAGE > Italian $$ Beguiling spot in garage behind Park Ave has 1924 tractor, overlooks the garden that supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 Map I8 KYUNG BOK KUNG > Korean $$$-$$$$ New. First U.S. location of luxury South Korean barbecue chain serves elaborate set menus in elegant space; minimum two people must order the same menu. L, D (daily). 7801 Beach Blvd., 714.888.4948 Map B2 MRS. KNOTT’S CHICKEN DINNER > American $$ Famed spot outside Knott’s Berry Farm has used its fried chicken recipe since 1934; boysenberry pie. L, D (daily); B (Sa-Su). 8039 Beach Blvd., 714.220.5055 Map G8 PARK AVE > American $$ Creative renditions of classics; known for steaks. Most produce grown on premises; visit the garden! Googie architecture and midcentury retro decor. L (Tu-F), D (TuSu). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 Map I8
CORONA DEL MAR CDM > American $$ New. The team behind A Restaurant in Newport Beach opens lively spot serving morels and peas and Hatch chile bucatini. Sultry speak-easy with superior cocktails. D (nightly). 2325 E. Coast Hwy., 949.287.6600 Map M15
> Two O.C. chefs have just won Food Network’s Chopped: Shachi Mehra of Adya in Anaheim and Irvine and Rachel Klemek of Blackmarket bakeries.
COURTESY THE CELLAR
ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE > Italian Steakhouse $$$ Sir Bruno Serato presents flamboyant fresco-filled decor and elaborately presented cuisine in a 1909 manor. Upstairs are global bites at the B Bar. D (nightly). 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., 714.772.1381 Map I10
Map locators at end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 45-47. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
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DINING
DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Taiwanese icon known for xiao long bao; watch the Shanghai-style dumplings being meticulously folded, then work your way through the menu. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., 714.549.3388 Map J13 HABANA > Latin $$ Hip Nuevo Latino destination with elaborate brunch and sultry dinners. Ropa vieja; tamale pie. L, D (daily); Br (Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., 714.556.0176 Map D5
Marugame Udon in Costa Mesa
FARMHOUSE > American $$$ Rich Mead’s field-to-fork-inspired cafe, a centerpiece of Roger’s Gardens, is a hit, especially with the lunching ladies. Superb cocktail team. L, D (daily). 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, 949.640.1415 Map L16 FIVE CROWNS > Continental $$$ Lawry’s institution in English inn replica known for prime rib. New chef, new bar and new seasonal menu. Acclaimed SideDoor Gastropub adjacent. D (nightly). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., 949.760.0331 Map M16 PIROZZI > Italian $$$ Convivial spot offers olive fritte, limoncello-infused taglierini and heart-shaped Nutella pizza for two. Excellent pizzas. D (nightly). 2929 E. Coast Hwy., 949.675.2932 Map M16 SIDEDOOR > Gastropub $$ Spot shares replica of England’s oldest inn with Five Crowns. Artisanal cheese, charcuterie, seasonal plates and world-class brews—plus elevated British pub fare. D (nightly). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., 949.717.4322 Map M16
COSTA MESA / SOUTH COAST METRO ANQI BISTRO > Vietnamese Fusion $$$ Innovative small plates in sexy setting with backlit bar and glass catwalk over running stream. Garlic noodles; secretrecipe garlic crab on Tuesdays. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., 714.557.5679 Map J13 ARC > American $$ “Flame, flavor, finesse” amid rustic-apothecary decor. Legendary burger; best fries; Butcher’s Love cap of the rib-eye for four; top-tier cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., 949.500.5561 Map J12 CAFE SEVILLA > Spanish $$ New. Cuisine and culture of España: tapas, paella and live flamenco. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). The Triangle, 1870 Haror Blvd., 949.688.1555 Map K12 THE CAPITAL GRILLE > Steak $$$$ Elegant spot offers superior dry-aged beef—notably the bone-in kona-crusted dry-aged sirloin—amid local portraits. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., 714.432.1140 Map J13 COSTA > Peruvian $$ New. Petite, chic spot near performing arts venues offers ceviches and tiraditos, arroz con mariscos, filet-mignon lomo saltado. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 650 Anton Blvd., 714.852.3299 Map J13 THE COUNTRY CLUB > American $$ Like a Gatsby-esque sports club. Popcorn-infused Shinnecock cocktail; hamachi tacos on jicama shells; caramelized white-chocolate bread pudding. L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). 330 E. 17th St., 949.281.2582 Map K12
THE HALL: GLOBAL EATERY > Food Hall $-$$ New. Top Chef runner-up Amar Santana and partner Ahmed Labbate open concept including crudo and charcuterie bar, Mediterranean concept and cafe. South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., 800.782.8888 Map J13 HAMAMORI > Japanese $$$ White-on-white room with undulating curves. Tamarimarinated black cod; Japanese whiskies. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., 714.850.0880 Map J13 HANA RE SUSHI > Japanese $$$$ Transporting omakase-only meals in serene minimalist environment, one of the county’s two Michelin-starred restaurants. “Short” tasting course available Tu-Th. D (TuSa). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., 714.545.2800 Map J13 KNIFE PLEAT > French $$$ New. Former owners of L.A.’s Church & State unveil stunner at South Coast Plaza. Légumes de saison; Crescent duck; Caramel dessert; Dior cocktail. Sunday tea. L (daily), D (M-Sa). 3333 Bristol St., 714.435.2034 Map J13 LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE > Steak $$$ Chic dining at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Elaborate starters; Snake River Farms New York steak; Valrhona chocolate beggar’s purse. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, 714.429.7640 Map J13 MARUGAME UDON > Japanese $$ New. Japan’s premier cafeteria-style udon restaurant specializes in made-to-order udon noodles. Dozens of tempura and musubi selections offered. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., 714.619.5688 Map J13 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Swanky spot offers larger-than-life portions, white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; crab gnocchi; warm butter cake. Generous cocktails, live music in the bar. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., 714.546.7405 Map J13 MEMPHIS > Southern $$ Southern, Cajun-Creole and Southwestern dishes in a hip retro setting. Start with gumbo. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 2920 Bristol St., 714.432.7685 Map J13 OLD VINE KITCHEN + BAR > Global Italian $$ Old Vine Cafe moves next door, adds a bar. Always a pleasure—for caramel apple French toast, beef-tongue panino or four-course tasting menus. B, L (daily); D (TuSa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., 714.545.1411 Map J13 OUTPOST KITCHEN > American $$ Inspired by the go-to Aussie beach cafes of the 1970s. Popular Caveman Skillet, Bagel on the Lox. New second location near South Coast Plaza. B, L (daily). 1792 Monrovia Ave.; 3420 Bristol St. 949.873.5123 Map D3 (V) SEABIRDS KITCHEN > Vegan $$ Plant-based purple taquitos, artichoke drumsticks (like fried chicken!), chaffle (churro waffle). L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., 714.549.2584; South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., 800.782.8888 Map J13 SEASONS 52 > American $$ Lower-calorie. Lots of flavor. Fab bar, stylish decor, eclectic
seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts. Brick-oven brioche “French toast” at brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., 714.437.5252 Map J13 SILVER TRUMPET > California $$$ “A symphony of flavors” in a lakeside setting opposite Segerstrom Center for the Arts, ideal for a repast before or after a show or concert. B, L, D (daily). 3350 Avenue of the Arts, 714.442.8593 Map J13 SOCIAL > Americam $$ Hip spot offers intriguing cuisine and inventive cocktails (e.g., PB&J). Wood-fired oysters; Akaushi-beef Drive Thru Burger; wagyu tri-tip. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 512 W. 19th St., 949.642.2425 Map K12 TACO MARÍA > Mexican $$$ The late Pulitzer Prize-winning Jonathan Gold named it the L.A. Times’ 2018 restaurant of the year; Michelin gave it a star (one of two in O.C.) in 2019. Carlos Salgado’s fascinating “Chicano cuisine.” Tacos at lunch; fourcourse prix fixe dinner. L, D (Tu-Sa); Br (Su). SoCo & the OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., 714.538.8444 Map J12 TERRACE BY MIX MIX > Eclectic $$$ Acclaimed chef Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in Santa Ana offers mostly small plates, mostly on a covered terrace. Three-course express lunch is a steal—$20. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., 657.231.6447 Map H13 TOAST KITCHEN + BAKERY > American $$ Brunch and dunch! Highlights include Cajun shrimp and grits, Nashville hot chicken, and malasadas. B, L (Tu-Su); D (Tu-Sa). 1767 Newport Blvd., 949.873.5057 Map B4 TRENTA > Italian $$ New. Sicilian owners and American chef John English offer tightly edited menu of distinctive and thoroughly enjoyable pizzas and pastas. D (Tu-Su). 1661 Superior Ave., 949.270.6652 Map D3 VACA > Spanish $$$ Tapas, paellas, house-made charcuterie, 50-day aged steaks and superb cocktails (e.g., Vaca Tonic, house-made vermouth) from Amar Santana, a Bravo Top Chef runnerup, and partner Ahmed Labbate. L (M-F), D (W-M). 695 Town Center Drive, 714.463.6060 Map J13 WATER GRILL > Seafood $$$ Upscale spot opposite South Coast Plaza includes O.C.’s best oyster bar. In the dining room: off-menu whole-fish ceviche, wild Barents Sea red king crab, superior salmon, 1-pound Prime rib-eye, indulgent desserts. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3300 Bristol St., 949.208.7060 Map J13
DANA POINT AVEO TABLE + BAR > Mediterranean $$$ Coastal bounty, cool chandeliers, ocean views. Eggs al forno, porchetta sandwich, paella for two. “Farm to Bar” cocktails under a vaulted ceiling. B, L, D (daily). 1 Monarch Beach Resort, 949.234.3915 Map J17 BOURBON STEAK > Steak $$$$ Luxe Michael Mina spot offers spectacular tableside presentations: cast-iron-broiled shellfish platter; haysmoked rib-eye cap; tai snapper for two. Remarkable old- and new-school cocktails. D (nightly). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, 949.234.3405 Map J17 CHART HOUSE > Seafood $$$ The architecture alone—circular pods atop a harbor-view bluff—is worth a visit. Lobster bisque; wok-fried whole fish; Port of Manhattan cocktail. D (nightly). 34442 Street of the Green Lantern, 949.493.1183 Map J16 RAYA > Latin Fusion $$$ Sophisticated fare, peerless ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree; roasted halibut with truffled bonito. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949.240.2000 Map J16
TUCKER + HOSSLER
THE CRACK SHACK > American $$ Bravo Top Chef All-Stars winner Richard Blais offers chicken- and egg-centric dishes amid chicken-themed decor. L, D (daily). 196 E. 17th St., 949.383.5040 Map K12
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DINING WHITESTONE > Eclectic $$ New. Restaurateur Steve Dickus (Pizza y Vino), chef Tony Celeste (RoomForty), sous chef Nick Herrera (Playground, Taco María) offer blue-cheese panna cotta; “BBQ” mushrooms; and wild-boar ragu over tagliatelli. D (Tu-Su). 34212 Pacific Coast Hwy., 949.489.8911 Map J16
FOUNTAIN VALLEY (V) AU LAC > Vegan $$ Amazing plant-based “shrimp” (salt-and-pepper shrimp), “chicken” (kung pao chicken) and “beef” (beef watercress) at vegan landmark. L, D (Tu-Su). 16563 Brookhurst St., 714.418.0658 Map C3 BRODARD RESTAURANT > Vietnamese $$$ Many feel that this newer, less expensive sibling to elegant Brodard Chateau (see listing below) is better than the original. B, L, D (daily). 16105 Brookhurst St., 657.247.4401 Map C3
FULLERTON THE CELLAR > French $$$ Subterranean setting at 1920s-era California Hotel oozes character; classic fare includes escargot, chateaubriand, souffles. Known for wine and cocktail lists. D (nightly). 305 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.525.5682 Map A3 JOURNEYMAN’S FOOD + DRINK > Eclectic $$ Postmodern eye- and taste-bud-popping creations thoughtfully conceived, meticulously executed. Fourcourse prix fixe with options. D (Tu-Sa). Hotel Fullerton, 1500 S. Raymond Ave., 714.635.9025 Map G10 PICKLED MONK > Gastropub $$ Abbey-meets-brick-and-chandelier decor, Cal-global comfort dishes and self-pour craft-beer-and-wine wall with 30 taps. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 101 N. Harbor Blvd., 714.793.9100 Map B3 SUMMIT HOUSE > Cal-Continental $$$ Hilltop faux English manor with blazing stone fireplace, known for prime rib and weddings. L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 2000 E. Bastanchury Road, 714.671.4111 Map A33
GARDEN GROVE BRODARD CHATEAU > Vietnamese $$$ Elegant two-story venue serves regional dishes of Hanoi, Hue and Saigon. L, D (daily). 9100 Trask Ave., 714.899.8273 Map K8 STEELCRAFT > Food Hall $-$$ New. Made from 22 colorful shipping containers. Ten vendors include the Penalty Box for burgers and hot dogs, Beachwood Brewing and Honey & Butter macarons. B, L, D (daily). 12900 Euclid St., 949.861.2222 Map D5 THAI NAKORN > Thai $$ Venerated traditional Thai spot. Fried fish with mango salad, clam in chili paste and basil. L, D (daily). 12532 Garden Grove Blvd., 714.583.8938 Map K10
HUNTINGTON BEACH BLUEGOLD > California $$$ Sleek California coastal: raw bar, charcuterie, seafood steam kettles, creative pizzas. B, L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., 714.374.0038 Map N9 HENRY’S > California $$$ New. Innovative, elevated fare at expanded Waterfront Beach Resort. PEI mussels; Mangalitsa pork chop; pomegranate mousse dessert. B, D (daily). 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., 714.845.8000 Map N9 LOT 579 > Food Hall $$ Tenants include Burnt Crumbs for sandwiches, American Dream for burgers and beer, Bear Flag Fish Co. for poke and the Dudes’ Brewing Co. L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., gopacificcity.com Map N9
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DINING
BRUNCH
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LUNCH
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DINNER
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HAPPY HOUR
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EVENTS
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C AT E R I N G
LSXO > Vietnamese $$ Intimate, extraordinary restaurant hidden within Bluegold at Pacific City. Fifty Saigon-style dishes, a handful of toptier cocktails, intoxicating ambiance at night. Plus afternoon tea. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., 714.374.0083 Map N9 PACIFIC HIDEAWAY > California $$ Share plates with Southeast Asian and Latin touches (Lao sausage wraps, whole crispy snapper) winning cocktails, cool decor. Br, D (daily). Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., 714.965.4448 Map N9 SEALEGS WINE BAR > California $$ Seasonal share plates (Pig and Fig flatbread, bananas Foster French toast) amid Hamptons-style decor. Lots of intriguing wines by the glass. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., 714.536.5700 Map M9 SOCIAL > American $$ New. Second location of hip Costa Mesa spot. Peruvian bay scallops; Cauli Crunch Roll; wagyu tri-tip. Inventive cocktails, e.g., Green Bloody, PB&J. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 21214 Beach Blvd., 760.695.2487 Map N9 TANNER’S > California $$ Pool and ocean views, open-fire fare and top-tier cocktails at its super-stylish Treehouse rooftop lounge. B, L, D (daily). Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., 714.698.6130 Map N9 WATERTABLE > American $$ Restaurant in “living rooms” with ocean-view patio. Eggplant quenelles with tiny vegetables; grilled branzino with sunchoke puree; decadent burger; top-tier cocktails. B, D (daily); L (M-F). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., 714.698.1234 Map N9
2607 MAIN STREET
•
IRVINE, CA
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949.387.8887
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ANDREISRESTAURANT.COM
IRVINE ANDREI’S > American $$ Striking space serves “conscious cuisine and cocktails”— crab cones, venison shank—from its second-floor perch and garden terrace. Saturday brunch a highlight. L, D (M-Sa); Br (Sa). 2607 Main St., 949.387.8887 Map D4 BISTANGO > American $$ Beautifully presented contemporary cuisine at business magnet; extensive wine list, changing contemporary art exhibits and jazz nightly. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19100 Von Karman Ave., 949.752.5222 Map K14
F E AT U R I N G
CUCINA ENOTECA > Cal-Ital $$ Fun decor and on-site wine shop. Vasi filled mini-Mason jars, lobster gnocchi neri, guanciale bucatini. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 532 Spectrum Center Drive, 949.861.2222 Map D5
Contemporary California Cuisine
DAVIO’S > Italian Steakhouse $$ East Coast-based northern Italian fare in striking dining room features handmade pasta, fresh seafood, Prime aged Brandt beef; bustling bar. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 18420 Von Karman Ave., 949.477.4810 Map J14
Handcrafted Brews Wide Screen TVs Outdoor Patio
EATS KITCHEN & BAR > Eclectic $$ Regional specialties, winning happy hour, circular bar centerpiece. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, 949.225.6780 Map D4 FOGO DE CHÃO > Brazilian Steakhouse $$$ New. Global chain serves its renowned churrasco in a beautiful space. Prix fixe meals include meats carved tableside by gauchos and spectacular feijoada bar. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Irvine Spectrum Center, 623 Spectrum Center Drive, 949.861.2222 Map D5 HABANA > Latin $$ Hip Nuevo Latino destination with great brunches; palatial second location adds breakfast, teatime and a bakery. Ropa vieja; tamale pie. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Irvine Spectrum Center, 708 Spectrum Center Drive, 949.450.1004 Map D5
HAPPY HOUR
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Mon - Fri 3-6:30pm
IN THE BAR & ON THE PATIO
*Mon - Fri, 3pm-5pm when there is an event at the Honda Center or Anaheim Stadium
TUSTIN 2415 Park Ave. I At The District in Tustin ANAHEIM 2610 E Katella Ave. I Across from The Honda Center
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voted best seafood orange county i
in
DINING HELLO KITTY GRAND CAFE > International $$ World’s first permanent Hello Kitty cafe serves treats, e.g., hot mini matcha doughnuts; Bow Room is for cocktails or reservations-only afternoon tea. Irvine Spectrum Center, 860 Irvine Center Drive, 949.536.5357 Map G8 HEIRLOOM FARMHOUSE KITCHEN > California $$ Starters such as the Ancient Breads trio star along with cocktails such as the elegant Improve Your Age. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Marriott Irvine Spectrum, 7905 Irvine Center Drive, 949.759.0200 Map D5 OOTORO SUSHI > Japanese $$$ Every bite surprises, and earns rapt attention, at this omakase-centric spot; rare fish, a toro trio, A5+ Kobe beef plus elaborate cooked dishes. L, D (Tu-Sa). 2222 Michelson Drive, 949.222.0688 Map K13 PUESTO > Mexican $$ Eye-popping new location at Park Place. Creative bluecorn tacos; nogada guacamole with arils and candied walnuts; agave spirits beyond tequila and mezcal. L, D (daily). 8577 Irvine Center Drive, 949.608.9990; 3311 Michelson Drive, 949.608.7272 Map J12, J14
newport beach harbor
Classic and Contemporary Sustainable Seafood Lunch · Dinner · Brunch · Happy Hour · Kids Livewell Menu Full Bar · Patio · Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking newport beach · redondo beach · catalina island · phoenix coronado · temecula · carlsbad · santa barbara | bluewatergrill.com
ROBATA WASA > Japanese $$ Stylish spot serves equally stylish robata, sushi, ramen, udon, specialty dishes such as When Uni Meets Crab, and excellent cocktails. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 926 Spectrum Center Drive, 949.536.5064 Map D5 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY > Seafood $$$ Seafood and steaks, oyster bar and award-winning brews. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). New Taps Brewery and Barrel Room in Tustin. The Market Place, 13390 Jamboree Road, 714.619.0404 Map C5 TAQUIERO TACO PATIO > Mexican $ New. Fast-casual spot offers fresh handmade tortillas, salsa macha, distinctively folded tacos, superb mulitas and Tijuana craft beers near the UC Irvine campus. L, D (daily). 4517 Campus Drive, 949.536.5064 Map D4 TRADE FOOD HALL > Food Hall $ Innovative concepts near airport include Two Birds chicken, Butterleaf vegetarian, Dos Chinos fusion tacos, Center Hub bar and Sweet Combforts desserts. B, L, D (daily). 2222 Michelson Drive, tradefoodhall.com Map J14
LAGUNA BEACH BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA > American $$$ Original spot/first love of Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana. Superb “cuisine of the Americas” and cocktails. D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., 949.715.8234 Map H15 DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN & BAR > American $$ Overlooks the sand. Santa Barbara uni with hamachi; foiegras-stuffed Mary’s Chicken and morels. Cozy-edgy Stateroom Bar. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, 949.715.7700 Map I15 HARLEY > American $$$ Owner-chef Greg Daniels’ spot is both midcentury modern and cozy. Grilled avocado with avocado leaf and pit; fried halloumi cheese with aquavit; wild-boar bolognese with house-made tagliatelle. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 370 Glenneyre St., 949.715.1530 Map H15 K’YA BISTRO BAR > California $$ Fifty small plates in lively spot inside historic hotel; sharing is encouraged. D (nightly). La Casa del Camino, 1289 S. Coast Hwy., 949.376.9718 Map I16 LAS BRISAS > Mexican $$$ Cliff-top spot with superb coastal views and popular patio gets a menu and design redo. B (M-Sa); L, D (daily); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, 949.497.5434 Map H15 MOZAMBIQUE > South African $$ African fortress gone hip offers Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine such as piri piri prawns. Veranda rooftop
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DINING dining. Complimentary ride within 10 miles. Br (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 1740 S. Coast Hwy., 949.715.7777 Map I16 OCEAN AT MAIN > American $$$ Chef Craig Strong departs luxe Studio to open his own spot, serving a more personal coastal cuisine. Standouts include Kusshi oysters with granité, lobster fettucine and roasted beef tenderloin. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 222 Ocean Ave., 949.715.3870 Map H15
FRESH SEAFOOD - AUTHENTIC SUSHI PREMIUM STEAKS - FRESH FISH MARKET SEASONAL SPECIALS - HAPPY HOUR
OLIVER’S OSTERIA > Italian $$$ Owner-chef Ferdinando Bernardi presents cuisine of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. Rigatoni al cacio e pepe, salt-baked whole branzino. L, D (daily). 853 Laguna Canyon Road, 949.715.0261 Map G15 ROYAL HAWAIIAN FIRE GRILL > American $$ First opened in 1947; fourth incarnation brings Maro Molteni, former owner of Maro Wood Grill. D (Tu-Su). 331 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.1470 Map H15 SAPPHIRE LAGUNA > Eclectic $$$ Globally inspired fare. Far-flung and ever-intriguing menu, excellent cocktails, popular patio, and gourmet pantry for takeout. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., 949.715.9888 Map I15 SELANNE STEAK TAVERN > Steak $$$ Hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s upscale spot. Pacific diver scallops, scarlet beet ravioli, Lord Stanley Cut rib-eye, wagyu steak for two, monkey bread dessert. D (nightly), Br (Su). 1464 S. Coast Hwy., 949.715.9881 Map I16 SPLASHES > American $$$ Restaurant/bar steps from the sand makes for gorgeous memories. Hamachi crudo, lobster bisque, rack of lamb. B, D (daily); L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). Surf & Sand Resort, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., 949.497.4477, ext. 550 Map H15 STUDIO > California $$$$ Bluff-top bungalow with gorgeous and endless azure Pacific views oozes an offhand luxury. Benjamin Martinek is chef de cuisine. Vegetarian menu is a showstopper. D (Tu-Su). Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., 949.715.6420 Map I16
FISHERMAN’S STEW
HUNTINGTON BEACH 20111 Brookhurst Street (Brookhurst & Adams) Huntington Beach, CA 94538 714.963.7796
OUTLETS AT ORANGE 20 City Blvd. West (22 Fwy and City Drive) Orange, CA 92868 714.769.3474
COME CHECK OUT OUR SEASONAL SPECIALS!
W W W. M A R K E T B R O I L E R . C O M
Home Sweet Home .
NEWPORT BEACH A RESTAURANT > American $$$ Stylish spot—”classically hip since 1926”—with red leather booths. Kentucky fried quail; Imperial Wagyu coulotte steak. Cafe/market adjacent. L (M-Th), D (nightly). 3334 W. Coast Hwy., 949.650.6505 Map N13 A&O KITCHEN + BAR > Gastropub $$ Waterfront Anchors & Oceans has California Distilled cocktail program. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., 949.603.4285 Map M14 ARC BUTCHER & BAKER > American $$ Marín and Noah von Blöm, Golden Foodies chef of the year, open pretty takeout spot in Cannery Village. B, L, D (daily). 417 30th St., 949.877.0190 Map N13 BAYSIDE > American $$$ Stylish spot ideal for exec lunches, romantic dinners and lazy brunches. The live jazz and the wines are a huge draw. D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, 949.721.1222 Map M14 BLUEWATER GRILL > Seafood $$ Fresh selection at harbor-front spot—a wide variety from Australian barramundi to farm-raised Mississippi catfish—changes daily. L, D (daily). 630 Lido Park Drive, 949.675.3474 Map N13 THE CANNERY > Seafood $$ A cannery in 1921, harbor-view restaurant for 40 years. Lobster carbonara; loup de mer; Balboa sundae. Jellyfish Lounge features sushi. Great happy hour. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3010 Lafayette Ave., 949.566.0060 Map N13
1500 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim (Across the street from Disneyland® Resort)
FREE WI-FI • LATE NIGHT HOURS
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paella. tapas. gypsy music.
DINING FABLE & SPIRIT > New Irish $$$ New. The cuisine, cocktails and decor—bright-mustard door, elegant wallpaper, deep peacock drapes— fascinate at Irish-inspired spot. Try chef David Shofner’s rabbit fricassee, sugar snap peas, boxty dumplings, cracked-pepper bucatini and Fields of Athen-Rye cocktail. L, D (daily). 3441 Via Lido, 949.409.9913 Map N13 FIG & OLIVE > Mediterranean $$$ Ode to olive oil ranging from crostini and crudo starters to crème brûlée cheesecake in a stunning olive treestudded setting. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 151 Newport Center Drive, 949.877.3005 Map L15 FLEMING’S > Steak $$$ Sleek venue, new redo at the prime steakhouse and wine bar with 100 wines by the glass; prime rib on Sundays. New subterranean immersive-dining special-events venue. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 455 Newport Center Drive, 949.720.9633 Map L15 (V) GRACIAS MADRE > Vegan Mexican $$$ West Hollywood fixture known as much for its innovative cocktails as for its creative south-of-the-border fare replaces Gratitude at Westcliff Plaza. B, L, D (daily). 1617 Westcliff Drive, 949.386.8103 Map L14 HELMSMAN ALE HOUSE > Brewery $$ New. Owners of the Country Club and Playa Mesa open craft brewery serving menu of pub fare (tri-tip sando, fish and chips) by chef Zach Scherer. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2920 Newport Blvd., 949.220.9977 Map N13 LIDO BOTTLE WORKS > California $$ Provocative menu harbor-side. Tuna tartare with chile pop rocks; cauliflower wreath with mushrooms and raisins. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Lido Marina Village, 3408 Via Oporto, Suite 103, 949.529.2784 Map N13 LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ > American $$ Beignets, burgers, bánh-mì buns and bouillabaisse in lighthouse-shaped harbor-view restaurant. Newly expanded cocktail list. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). Marina Park, 1600 W. Balboa Blvd., 949.933.1001 Map N14 LOUIE’S BY THE BAY > Italian Steakhouse $$$ Venerated restaurateurs Piero Selvaggio (Valentino) and Ron Salisbury (the Cannery) partner at impressive waterfront space. Wild mushroom tortino with saffron fonduta; osso buco with risotto Grana Padano. D (nightly). 2801 W. Coast Hwy., 949.720.1800 Map N13 MAYOR’S TABLE > California $$$ Dining room, raw bar, chef’s counter serving seafood and creative “vegetable-forward cuisine” at beachy-chic hotel. Seven-course experience with wine pairings on Thursdays. B, L (M-F); D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Lido House, 3300 Newport Blvd., 949.524.8500 Map N13 NOBU > Japanese $$$$ Harbor-side outpost of renowned spot is stunning inside and out. Grand Cordon cocktail omakase on the patio. Wagyu Wednesdays. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). Lido Marina Village, 3450 Via Oporto, 949.429.4440 Map N13
An authentic spanish experience since 1987! Open for the Holidays!
Costa Mesa | (949) 688-1555 | 1870 Harbor Blvd. Long Beach | San Diego | CafeSevilla.com
OAK GRILL > California $$$$ Chef Brittany Valles elevates the menu with distinctive takes on already creative fare. Shares patio with Aqua Lounge. B, L, D (daily). Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, 949.760.4920 Map L15 PIZZERIA MOZZA > Italian $$ From culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich. Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel coppetta with marshmallow sauce. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., 949.945.1126 Map M13 PROVENANCE > Cal-Ital $$ Cathy Pavlos retools her farmhouse-themed spot to the Italian family recipes she grew up with. Impressive patio garden. Excellent brunch. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2531 Eastbluff Drive, 949.718.0477 Map L14
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DINING SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI > Quick Bites $ Creative sandwiches—some of the county’s best— and tasty salads. B, L, D (daily). 2823 Newport Blvd., 949.220.9001 Map N13 SUSHI ROKU > Cal-Japanese $$ Gorgeous spot from Cal-sushi pioneer. Fluke kumquat starter, premium tofu three ways, wagyu flights, rib-eye steak Japonais, Zen s’mores dessert. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, 949.706.3622 Map L15 TAVERN HOUSE > New American $$ New. Greatest hits from veteran restaurateur David Wilhelm, creative spins on American classics from chef Mike Payne, overlooking harbor canals. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 333 Bayside Drive, 949.673.8464 Map M15 21 OCEANFRONT > Continental $$$ Romantic restaurant with sunset views, servers in black tie. Crab legs, steaks and osso buco. Live entertainment. D (nightly). 2100 W. Oceanfront, 949.673.2100 Map N13 WATERLINE > Seafood $$$ “Water to table” seafood experience overlooking the harbor. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Su (Br). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., 949.630.4390 Map M13 THE WINERY > California $$$ Seafood, wild game and USDA Prime steaks in striking spot overlooking Newport Harbor. D (nightly), Br (Su). 3131 W. Coast Hwy., 949.999.6622 Map N13
NEWPORT COAST ANDREA > Italian $$$$ Elegant, unstuffy dining room looks out onto elysian and ocean vistas. Top-tier pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L (F-Su), D (nightly). The Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., 844.445.2183 Map L17 THE BEACHCOMBER > American $$ Historic cottage on the sand at Crystal Cove State Park. Prime flat-iron steak; Gimme S’mores! Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Los Trancos lot shuttle. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, 949.376.6900 Map E4 MARCHÉ MODERNE > French $$$ Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia elevate the bistro experience to gorgeous heights; the brunch may be the county’s best. The cocktails are newly elevated, too. D (nightly); Br (Su). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7862 E. Coast Hwy., 714.434.7900 Map M17
ORANGE HAVEN > Gastropub $$ Adventurous fare and handcrafted beers. Superb burgers, Jidori chicken-liver toast, whole suckling pig. Br (Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., 714.221.0680 Map C4 MARKET BROILER > Seafood $$ Mix ‘n’ match fresh fish ‘n’ sauce. Mesquite-grilled seafood and steaks, sushi and on-site fish market. L, D (daily). The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. W., 714.769.FISH Map J11 ORANGE HILL > Steak $$ Hilltop hideaway with endless views, bastion of continental cuisine for half a century, morphs into steakhouse serving cuts such as tomahawk and zabuton. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., 714.997.2910 Map C5
SAN CLEMENTE THE CELLAR > American $$ Cheese shop, wine bar and excellent restaurant with live music and dog-friendly patio. B, L, D (T-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 158 Avenida del Mar, 949.492.3663 Map south of F6
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Hanagi has arrived
DINING MRK PUBLIC > Gastropub $$ Elevated pub fare, notably Tuscan Toast and Vietnamese Sticky Wings, and craft beers (all $5). L, D (Tu-Su). 1402 S. El Camino Real, 949.441.7621 Map south of F6
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ > Creative Brunch $$ Memorable repast on covered patio of 1881 house next to the train tracks in historic district. B, L (Th-Tu); Br (Sa-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., 949.443.1342 Map I17
SANTA ANA 4TH STREET MARKET > Food Hall $$ Tenants include Dos Chinos, Alta Baja Market, Electric City Butcher, Recess Libations and Steel Pan Pizza. L, D (daily). 201 E. 4th St., 714.486.0700 Map H13
only at Anaheim Majestic
MIX MIX KITCHEN BAR > Filipino Fusion $$$ Chef Ross Pangilinan’s acclaimed cuisine/cocktails. Prix fixe dinners (includes wine pairings on Wed.). D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 300 N. Main St., 714.836.5158 Map H13
Garden Hotel
HA H AB U -S S • I K A SUKIY CE SUSHI • R SERVI FULL BA
BU
OMAKASE BY GINO > Japanese $$$ Sushi chef Gino Choi unveils 10-seat restaurant in downtown Santa Ana offering set-price menu “for serious sushi lovers.” Offerings flown in daily from Tsukiji. D (Tu-Sa). 304 N. Main St., 657.231.6008 Map H13 PLAYGROUND > American $$ Owner/chef Jason Quinn’s superior small plates; adjacent Playground 2.0 is a convivial culinary laboratory. D (TuSa). 220 E. 4th St., 714.560.4444 Map H13
Chef Hiro and his team are serving traditional, authentic Japanese cuisine, complete with a fresh, creative sushi bar and interactive Hot Pot and Shabu-Shabu meals.
TANGATA > California $$ Spot at Bowers Museum offers Pacific Rim-inflected lunch Spam taco, Korean skirt steak, banana spring roll. L (TuSu). 2002 N. Main St., 714.550.0906 Map G13
TUSTIN CHAAK > Mexican $$ Elevated Yucatecan staples and contemporary Mayan decor inspired by owner Gabbi Patrick’s roots. L, D (TuSu). 215 El Camino Real, 657.699.3019 Map C4
SAPPORO
•
GUAM
•
J. ZHOU > Cantonese $$$ Flamboyant destination offers dim sum and special-occasion fare such as lobster served 16 ways and several types of abalone. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2601 Park Ave., 714.258.8833 Map D4
ANAHEIM
Serving Lunch & Dinner
JT SCHMID’S > Brewpub $$ Restaurant and brewery offers wood-fired pizzas, Prime steaks, burgers, jambalaya and sashimi. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2415 Park Ave., 714.258.0333 Map D4
844-4HANAGI HanagiDining.com E Q #HanagiDining VALIDATED PARKING ON-SITE. LOBBY FLOOR - ANAHEIM MAJESTIC GARDEN HOTEL | 900 S. DISNEYLAND DR.
MESS HALL MARKET > Food Hall $$ New. Ten vendors at spot adjacent to Tustin Legacy Park include Vaka burgers, Slapfish, Fonda Moderna tacos, Saigon Kitchen, Little Greek and Drink Bar. B, L, D (daily). 1705 Flight Way, messhalltustin.com Map I14
Come aboard our 63-foot catamaran for an unforgettable 90-minute Dana Point Harbor cruise and wine tasting that includes four wine tastes from The Organic Cellar and appetizers.
PRIVATE PARTY & GROUP CHARTERS PUBLIC CRUISES YEAR-ROUND
UNION MARKET TUSTIN > Food Hall $$ Tenants include new Roba Noodle, Stowaway for tiki drinks, Kettlebar Steam Cooking, Central Bar and Churned Creamery. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2493 Park Ave., unionmarkettustin.com Map D4 THE YELLOW CHILLI > Indian $$ New. Recipes by famed Indian chef Sanjeev Kapoor. Griddled cottage-cheese cubes, butter chicken, tandoori sea bass, gulab jamuns dessert. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2463 Park Ave., 714.389.5280 Map J14
Friday and Sunday Evenings | $49 per person
ocwinecruise.com
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE SOCALPULSE.COM
DANA POINT HARBOR | 949.496.5794 | 34675 Golden Lantern | Dana Point, CA 92629 WINTER 2020 WHERE TRAVELER ORANGE COUNTY 33
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OCDINING 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
HARLEY LAGUNA BEACH The menu at Harley is seasonal, Southern California-inspired and chef-driven—by owner-chef Greg Daniels, a pillar of the county’s chef community. Amid midcentury-modern décor, Daniels serves up dishes given inventive tweaks that make them unforgettable. Highlights include grilled avocado, with avocado leaf and pit; whole roasted head of cauliflower, Moroccan-spiced; fried halloumi cheese with Blinking Owl aquavit; handmade pastas such as the tagliatelle in the wild boar bolognese (left); and impeccably sourced steaks cooked over a live wood fire. Lists of craft cocktails and beers and boutique wines are thoughtfully curated. Roasted pineapple upsidedown cake makes for an ideal finish. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su).
370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach 949.715.1530 • harleylagunabeach.com
HOUSE OF CHIMNEY CAKES Enjoy churros or doughnuts? Consider kürtöskalács, or Hungarian chimney cake—a sweet, cylindrical, freshly baked bread, crispy on the outside, hot and fluffy on the inside. New at Center Street Promenade, the House of Chimney Cakes is the brainchild of Hungary-born fashion model/pastry chef Szandra Szabó and fine-dining chef Omar Lara. Their elaborate creations, such as All-American Apple Pie, Matcha Monster and Oreo Overload, start with flavored chimney-cake cones. The cones are filled with soft-serve vanilla bean or Dutch chocolate ice cream—or vegan pineapple or strawberry Dole Whip—and finished with an array of toppings, fillings and sauces. You can also design your own or enjoy the cakes without ice cream—they’re scrumptious. Open Tu-Su. 173 Center Street Promenade, Anaheim 714.603.7859 • thehouseofchimneycakes.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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THE GUIDE / ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL EVENTS TET FESTIVAL Jan. 24-26. UVSA event is largest Vietnamese Lunar New Year fest in U.S. Food, performances, exhibits. 6 pm-midnight. $6. O.C. Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, tetfestival.org Map K13 SURF CITY MARATHON/HALF MARATHON Jan. 31-Feb.2. Active lifestyle expo, entertainment, races and beer garden. Register online. Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, motivrunning.com Map N10 TASTE OF SAN JUAN Feb. 6. Fiesta de las Golondrinas (Swallows Festival) kickoff features 20-plus eateries and live music. 6-9 pm. $40 GA, $65 VIP. A Stone’s Throw Winery, 29943 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, swallowsdayparade.com Map H17
Guidelines Map locators (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 45-47. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
Index Special Events............. 35 Holidays....................... 35 Theater........................ 35 Music + Dance.............. 35 Sports.......................... 36 Attractions................... 36 Museums..................... 39
Shopping....................... 39 Eatertainment............. 40 Golf Courses................ 41 Active Outdoors........... 41 Beaches....................... 41 Nightlife....................... 42 Explore......................... 44
HOLIDAYS WINTER FANTASY Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 20-22. 180 artists sell holiday gifts. Plus food, art classes, petting zoo and Santa Claus. 10 am-7 pm. $4-$12. Sawdust Festival grounds, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030, sawdustfestival.org Map G1
ALL MY SONS Jan. 23. Broadcast live from London featuring Academy Award winner Sally Field and actor Bill Pullman as a couple raising two sons in America, 1947. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646 Map K14
BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 6-7, 13-14. Spectacular 45th annual harbor parade of decorated vessels, this year themed “Tiki Holiday.” Dana Point Harbor, 949.923.2255, danapointharbor.org Map J16
TO SIR, WITH LOVE Jan. 29-Feb. 16. Based on the classic 1967 film and inspired by true events. An outof-work engineer turns to teaching in London’s tough East End. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15
NIGHTS OF 1000 LIGHTS Dec. 6-8, 12-15, 19-22. Spectacular display at Sherman Library & Gardens includes free coffee, hot chocolate and make-your-own s’mores. 6-9 pm. $25, under 4 free. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261, slgardens.org Map M16 CAPISTRANO LIGHTS Dec. 8-Jan. 6. Lighting of 30-foot Christmas tree, light displays, selfies with Santa and crafts. $7-$10. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, missionsjc.org Map J16 BREW HO HO! Dec. 7. Holiday ale fest features food trucks, unlimited 2-ounce pours. $55, designated drivers $20. Noon-4 pm. Phoenix Club, 1340 S. Sanderson Ave., Anaheim, 949.363.9960, ocbrewhoho.com Map I11 NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE Dec. 18-22. More than 100 decorated vessels cruise the harbor for the 111th annual event. Newport Harbor, 949.729.4400, christmasparadeboats.com Map N14 DISNEY ON ICE Dec. 19-23. Ice skating, high-flying acrobatics and stunts at show themed Mickey’s Search Party featuring characters from Coco, Beauty and the Beast, Moana, Frozen and Aladdin. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 WINTER FEST O.C. Dec. 19-Jan. 5. Ice skating, Festival of Lights, snow-play area, parade and nightly tree-lighting ceremony with fireworks. O.C. Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, winterfestoc.com Map K13 ORANGE BALL NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION Dec. 31. Countdown to Orange Ball drop with fireworks includes live bands. 6 pm-midnight. O.C. Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, winterfestoc.com Map K13
JUSTIN HALBERT
THEATER PETER PAN AND TINKER BELL: A PIRATE’S CHRISTMAS Dec. 4-29. Seinfeld’s John O’Hurley and True Jackson VP’s Ashley Argota star in panto-style production. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15
ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE Feb. 4-9. Musical comedy featuring original songs and Jimmy Buffett classics. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL Feb. 20-22. Based on the 1980 movie with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. Three female coworkers plan to get even with their boss—a sexist, egotistical, hypocritical bigot. Musco Center for the Arts, 415 N. Glassell, Orange, 844.626.8726 Map B4
MUSIC + DANCE HONDA CENTER Dec. 13 Ariana Grande. Feb. 20 Miranda Lambert. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES Dec. 4 Mitchell Tenpenny. Dec. 5 Gryffin. Dec. 6 Thrice. Dec. 7 Island Block Radio presents OC Swells. Dec. 8 Music Factory. Dec. 8 Eli Young Band. Dec. 11 Falling in Reverse. Dec. 15 Chon, Between the Buried and Me, Intervals. Dec. 17 Waterparks. Dec. 19 Michael Jackson tribute band Who’s Bad. Dec. 20 Comethazine. Dec. 21 The Vandals. Dec. 21 Secondhand Sound. Dec. 27-28 Sublime. Jan. 11 Ultimate 80’s Party. Jan. 16 Women of Fingerstyle Guitar. Jan. 17 Gus G. Jan. 18 Victor Wooten. Jan. 23 Motion City Soundtrack. Jan. 24 RX Bandits. Jan. 30 Queensryche. Jan. 31 Chris Lane. Feb. 4 American Authors, Magic Giant. Feb. 8-9 Dashboard Confessional. Feb. 22 Machine Head. 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.778.2583, houseofblues.com/anaheim Map I10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Dec. 5 Festival Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker. Dec. 12 Irish ensemble Danú. Jan. 10 Jazz vocalist Diane Schuur. Jan. 16 Iranian vocalist Sussan Deyhim. Jan. 18 Music of the Knights, celebration of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney. Jan. 19 Mozart Classical Orchestra, Happy Birthday Mozart. Jan. 30 Bodytraffic. Jan. 31 Latin jazz, Con Alma y Fuego. Feb. 7 Hawaiian musicians Keola Beamer and Moanaiani. Feb. 26 Beijing Dance/LDTX, ARC. Feb. 8-9 Fats Waller revue, Ain’t Misbehavin’. Feb. 20-22 UCI Dance Visions. Feb. 23 Ray Charles celebration. Feb. 27 Saxophonist Tom Scott & the L.A. Express. Feb. 28 Violinist Phillppe Quint, Charlie Chaplin
Hoppy Trails!
Four breweries have opened within minutes of each other, each offering something aficionados can write home about; call it Costa Mesa’s beer corridor. Gunwhale Ales (above, 949.239.9074) is the graybeard of the bunch, having launched in 2016; check out that tart and funky On the Shoot farmhouse ale! Among the more recent additions to the scene, two are just down the street: Salty Bear Brewing Co. (619.887.1111), where you might start with the refreshing Tangled Up in Blue-Berry Lager, and Bootlegger’s Brewery (714.871.2337), adjacent to the Lab—consider its Thai Tea Far Out IPA. Minutes to the west is family-owned and -operated Brewing Reserve of California (714.884.4704); finish with the chocolatey A Stout to Fall For. And the city’s influence is spreading: Gunwhale Ales has just opened a second, larger location in Orange.
> Gymnast Sam Mikulak, America’s hope for the 2020 Summer Olympics, is from Newport Beach; L.A. Angels great Mike Trout just bought a home there. WINTER 2020 WHERE TRAVELER ORANGE COUNTY
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ATTRACTIONS tribute. Feb. 29 BeauSoleil. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14 MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Dec. 6-7 Holiday Wassail concert and banquet. Dec. 10 Guitarist Tony Emmanuel. Dec. 12 Ballet Folkórico de Los Angeles with Mariachi Garibaldi, Nochebuena. Dec. 14-15 Southern California Christmas. Dec. 17 American fiddler Mark O’Connor, An Applachian Christmas. Jan. 30 Poland’s Wrocław Philharmonic. Feb. 8 Mac King Comedy Show. Feb. 20-22 9 to 5 The Musical. Feb. 25 L.A. Opera, Roberto Devereux concert staging. Feb. 27 Trumpeter Herb Alpert, vocalist Lani Hall. Chapman University, 1 University Drive, Orange, 844.626.8726 muscocenter.org Map B4 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall Dec. 1 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. Dec. 7 Nutcracker for kids. Dec. 13-22 American Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker. Dec. 30 ABBA the Concert. Jan. 7-12 Blue Man Group. Feb. 4-9 Escape to Margaritaville. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Dec. 5-7 Pacific Symphony, pianist Vadym Kholodenko. Dec. 8 Pacific Chorale, Handel’s Messiah. Dec. 9 Vanguard University Christmas. Dec. 13 Millennial Choirs & Orchestras, Mele Kalikimaka. Dec. 14 A cappella Voctave. Dec. 15 Duke Ellington Orchestra, The Nutcracker. Dec. 17 Organist Todd Wilson, members of Pacific Symphony. Dec. 19 Mariachi Los Camperos, Fiesta Navidad. Dec. 20-21 Pacific Symphony, vocalist Marie Osmond. Dec. 22-23 Pacific Chorale, Pacific Symphony, SC Children’s Chorus, Tis the Season! Dec. 28 Strauss Symphony of America, New Year. Jan. 11 Vocalist Art Garfunkel. Jan. 16-17 Pacific Symphony, violinist Clara-Jumi Kang. Jan. 18 Pacific Symphony, Opera for Kids. Jan. 19 Violinist Itzhak Perlman. Jan. 21 Pianist Emanuel Ax. Jan. 25 Pacific Symphony, Lunar New Year. Jan. 26 San Diego Symphony, conductor Edo de Waart. Jan. 28 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, violinist/conductor Pinchas Zukerman. Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Violinist Midori, pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. Feb. 5 Shanghai Chinese Orchestra, Chinese New Year. Feb. 6-9 Pacific Symphony, pianist Alain Lefèvre. Feb. 14-15 Pacific Symphony, trumpeter Chris Botti. Feb. 20 Pianist Yuja Wang. Feb. 22 Pacific Symphony, Lantern Festival. Feb. 27-29 Pacific Symphony, violinist Augustin Hadelich. Samueli Theater Dec. 3 Brentano String Quartet. Dec. 8 Dixie’s Tupperware Party. Dec. 21 Spanish Harlem Orchestra, Salsa Navidad. Jan. 7 Junction Trio. Jan. 23-25 Lillias White. Feb. 2 Joshua Show: Episode 2. Feb. 13 Doric String Quartet, pianist Marc-André Hamelin. Feb. 16 Pacific Symphony chamber music. Feb. 22 Jazz vocalist Kandace Springs. Feb. 29 Vienna Piano Trio. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13 SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Dec. 7 Pianist Behzod Abduraimov. Dec. 8 Celtic Christmas. Jan. 19 Pacific Symphony, Mozart concertos. Jan. 25 Jazz/spiritual ensemble Ranky Tanky. Feb. 1 Harry Allen Trio. Feb. 8 Vocal group the 5th Dimension. Jan. 7 Pianist Daniil Trifonov. Feb. 21 Violinist Alexi Kenney. Feb. 23 Renee Rosnes Trio. Feb. 29 Vocalists Perla Batalla and Maria Muldaur. Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, soka.edu Map E6
sandiegozoo.org/africarocks
NOW OPEN
sdzsafaripark.org/walkabout
SPORTS HONDA CENTER Dec. 2 Anaheim Ducks vs. L.A. Kings. Dec. 6 Ducks vs. Washington Capitals. Dec. 12 Ducks vs. Kings. Dec. 14 Ducks vs. New York Rangers. Dec. 27 Ducks vs. Vegas Golden Knights. Jan. 5 Ducks vs. Nashville Predators. Jan. 7 Ducks vs. Columbus Blue Jackets. Jan. 9 Ducks vs. Dallas Stars. Jan. 29 Ducks vs. Arizona Coyotes. Feb. 11 Ducks vs. St. Louis Blues. Feb. 13 Ducks vs. Flames. Feb. 19 Ducks vs. Florida Panthers. Feb. 21 Ducks vs. Colorado Avalanche. Feb. 23 Ducks vs. Golden Knights. Feb. 25 Ducks vs. Edmonton Oilers. Feb. 28 Ducks vs. Pittsburg Penguins. 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, hondacenter.com Map I9
ATTRACTIONS AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Exhibit highlights include Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest and sea jellies. Daily
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ATTRACTIONS 9 am-6 pm. $19.95-$34.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BILLY BEEZ Slide, bounce, jump and run at indoor jungle- and bee-themed arena for kids and their and families. STC GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.207.4841 Map I10 CHRIST CATHEDRAL Architectural must-sees: Philip Johnson’s newly renovated glass cathedral, Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope, Richard Meier’s Int’l Center for Positive Thinking. Tours M-Sa 10 am, 1 pm. Free. 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, 949.375.5763 Map J10 DISCOVERY CUBE Hands-on exhibits, shows in science center and theater. Through Jan. 26 Castle Builder: Build Your Kingdom. Ongoing Dino Quest, Mission Control; Helicopter Tour; Water Gallery; Science of Hockey. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $14.95-$19.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13 DISNEYLAND Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Disney’s largest single-themed land expansion ever, is new. The only theme park completed under the direct supervision of Walt Disney also looks back with Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln; a mountain range of thrill rides includes Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain and Splash Mountain. Call for hours. Admission: $97$124, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Park ups the thrill ante with Incredicoaster at new Pixar Pier area and Guardians of the Galaxy—Mission: Breakout! Soarin’ Over California and the World of Color water-and-light show still thrill. Call for hours. Admission: $97-$124. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Free pedestrian promenade adjacent to Disney parks offers dining, shopping and nightlife including Splitsville Luxury Lanes, Disney Home, Salt & Straw ice cream, Ballast Point Brewing Co. 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 FLIGHTDECK FLIGHT SIMULATION CENTER Aerial dogfights use F-16 fighter jet cockpit simulators. No experience necessary. Minimum age 11, height 4 feet 11 inches. Starts at $59. Tu-Su 11:30 am-8:30 pm. 1650 S. Sinclair, Anaheim, 714.937.1511 Map I11 FULLERTON ARBORETUM The county’s largest botanical garden, adjacent to CSU Fullerton, features 4,000 plant species set amid ponds and streams. 8 am-4:30 pm. Free; $5 suggested donation. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657.278.3407 Map A3 GREAT PARK ICE & FIVEPOINT ARENA Huge skating facility includes practice rinks for Anaheim Ducks and U.S. Figure Skating. 888 Ridge Valley, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 GO VR GAMING Virtual-reality arcade offers 3-D experiences that take you worlds away. Multi- player programs too. M-Th 3-10 pm, F 3-10:30 pm, Sa 1-10:30 pm, Su 1-10 pm. STC GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.829.4189 Map I10 K1 SPEED Indoor kart racing for speed enthusiasts. Call for hours. $20. 17221 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.250.0242; 1000 N. Edward Court, Anaheim, 714.632.6999 Map J14, B4 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions; premier coasters include HangTime, Silver Bullet and Xcelerator. Camp Snoopy for younger children. Call for hours and prices; under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map G8 LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA Theme park with about 60 rides, shows and attractions. Call for hours. $85-$91, under 3 free. Sea Life Aquarium, add $18. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.LEGO Map south of F6
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ATTRACTIONS MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Spanish stallions, swordsmanship, falconry and four-course feast. $36.95-$63.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 MISSION ESCAPE GAMES Work as a team, use clues to escape from a locked room in under 60 minutes. M-Th 3:30-10 pm, F-Sa 12:30-11 pm, Su 12:30-10 pm. Call for prices. STC GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.234.5625 Map I10 RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Exhibits include replica of Nixon’s Oval Office and one about his historic trip to China. $6-$16, under 5 free. M-Sa 10 am-5 pm, Su 11 am-5 pm. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.993.5075 Map A4 OCEAN INSTITUTE Aboard tall-ship Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor. Tide-pool sessions; marine-mammal cruises; blue-whale safaris. M-F 10 am-4 pm, Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm. $5-$10, under 2 free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274 Map J16 ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK Tethered-balloon ride, $5-$10, under 18 free with adult. Carousel, $3, $10 all day. (See Great Park Ice previous page.) Sand Canyon Avenue at Interstate 5, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy and romance aboard Spanish galleon replica. Call for hours. $36.95-$61.95, under 3 free. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.690.1497 Map G8
PRIME STEAKS & PRIMO VIEWS Dinner | Happy Hour | Patio Dining Weekend Brunch | Special Events | Corporate Events
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QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—in Long Beach Harbor. Shops, dining, art deco lounge; Russian Foxtrot submarine adjacent. Self-guided/guided tours 10 am-6 pm. $14.95$30.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511 Map northwest of C1 ROCKREATION Indoor climbing facility with routes and instruction at all levels. M noon-10 pm; Tu-Th 6 am-10 8479SRC_ORAN_WHEREad_v2.indd 1 pm; F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $15-$20. 1300 Logan Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.556.7625 Map J12
TheOrangeHillRestaurant.com OrangeHill | OrangeHillEats
1/11/19 7:02 AM
SAFARI PARK Wildlife preserve with vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. $56; children 3-11 $46; kids 2 and under free. Cars $15. Open daily, call for hours. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702 Map southeast of F6 SAN DIEGO ZOO Four thousand animals, many rare and endangered, in state-of-the-art environments. $56; 3-11 $46; 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 zoo, Crean Family Farm, Zoofari Express Train Ride. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $7-$10, 2 and under free. 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, 714.836.4000 Map H14 SEAWORLD Marine-themed attractions include white manatee, Explorer’s Reef, thrill ride Journey to Atlantis and Blue Horizons show. Open daily. Call for hours, combo rates. $82-$92, under 3 free. 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, 800.257.4268 Map southeast of F6 SHERMAN LIBRARY & GARDENS Intimate 10-garden botanical collection, Café Jardin. Daily 10:30 am-4 pm. Research library M-F 10:30 am-4 pm. $3-$5, under 12 free. Free first Monday of the month. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261 Map M16 SPACES Immersive virtual-reality experience involves 3D face scan, sensors, PC “backpack” and goggles. Daily 10 am-9 pm. $30. Irvine Spectrum Center, 734 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.800.8306 Map D5 VANS SKATEPARK Skateboard mecca. M-Sa 10 am-10 pm; Su 10 am-9 pm. Free. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. West, Orange, 714.769.3800 Map J11
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ATTRACTIONS MUSEUMS BOWERS MUSEUM World cultural arts and California exhibitions. Through Jan. 19 Dimensions of Form: Tamayo and Mixografia. Through Feb. 2 Arthur Beaumont: Art of the Sea. Ongoing Sacred Realms: Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan; Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands; Ancient Arts of China. Tu-Su 10 am-4 pm. $10-$15, under 12 free. Separate admission for some exhibits. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600 Map G13 FULLERTON MUSEUM CENTER Exhibits with pop culture bent. Through Feb. 23 Latin American Urban Art. Ongoing Leo Fender: Life and Legacy. Tu-W, F-Su noon-4 pm; Th noon-8 pm. $3-$5, under 6 free. 301 N. Pomona Ave., Fullerton, 714.738.6545 Map A3 HILBERT MUSEUM Chapman University-run venue shows California images by 20th-century artists. Continuing Los Angeles Area Scene Painting; A Fine Romance: Images of Love in Classic American Illustration. Tu-Sa 11 am-5 pm. Free. 167 N. Atchison St., Orange, 714.516.5880 Map J11 HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERNATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM Board culture: exhibits on Duke Kahanamoku, classic surfboards, Endless Summer. Tu-Su noon-5 pm. $2. 411 Olive Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.465.4350 Map N8 LAGUNA ART MUSEUM California Impressionism and contemporary cultural art. Through Jan. 5 Yorgo Alexopoulos, 360° Azimuth. Through Jan. 12 Thomas Hunt: California Modernist; Mildred Bryant Brookes etchings; Laurie Brown photos. M-Tu, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am9 pm. $5-$7, under 18 free. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8971 Map H15 LYON AIR MUSEUM Rare operational 20th-century aircraft and other historical vehicles displayed at venue on John Wayne Airport perimeter. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $6-$12, under 5 free. 19300 Ike Jones Road, Santa Ana, 714.210.4585 Map J13
©2019 Tom Bonner
MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Exhibits at jewel of the California missions (1776). Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. Ongoing Legacy of Saint Serra; Mission Treasures: Historical Collection Revealed; Plein Air Art Reproductions; Spanish Colonial Room. Daily 9 am-5 pm. $7-$10, under 4 free. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300 Map I17 MUZEO Intimate exhibition space on Center Street Promenade. Through Jan. 5 Beauty Beneath The Rubble. Ongoing Anaheim: A Walk through Local History. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $7-$10. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936 Map H10 OCMAEXPANDS-SANTA ANA Interim quarters for the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) until its spectacular new home is completed at nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Continuing Six exhibitions featuring Pacific Rim artists. Free. Th 11 am-8 pm, F-Su 11 am-6 pm. South Coast Plaza Village, 1661 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.780.2130 Map J13 OLD ORANGE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Landmark restored in 1989 now houses historical exhibits, archives and a marriage license office. 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.973.6605 Map H13
Explore the wonders of the ocean and meet more than 12,000 animals at the Aquarium of the Pacific. And now experience the all-new Pacific Visions.
562.590.3100 100 AquArium WAy Long BEAch, cA 90802 AquAriumofpAcific.org
SHOPPING DESTINATIONS BELLA TERRA Striking Italian-themed open-air center features Whole Foods Market, REI outdoor-sports specialist and 20-screen cinema. 7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.897.2534 Map C2 BREA MALL Huge mall, the second largest in the county, is home to anchors Nordstrom and Macy’s and 174 other retailers including a Tesla store, Kidgets, Pink and Nature Republic. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, 714.990.2733 Map A3
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SHOPPING ORANGE COUNTY
THE CAMP Enclave for outdoor enthusiasts includes eco store SEED People’s Market, 2nd Street for vintage clothing; eateries include Old Vine Kitchen + Bar. 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 CORONA DEL MAR PLAZA Boutiques include Diane’s Beachwear and Tommy Bahama restaurant, bar and boutique. Plus Sprinkles Ice Cream. 800-984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949.759.8687 Map M15 CRYSTAL COVE SHOPPING CENTER Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques Coastal Cool and Atelier 7918 and new Aston Martin showroom; fine dining includes Marché Moderne and Bluefin. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.759.8687 Map M17 FASHION ISLAND Elegant open-air center features anchors Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, boutiques Zadig & Voltaire, ViX Paula Hermanny swimwear, Suitsupply, restaurants Sushi Roku and Fig & Olive. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15 5 POINTS PLAZA Neighborhood center offers Loft, Vans, Affinity Co. Jewelers, CloudMover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi; barking lot for dogs! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 5pointsplaza.com Map D2 IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER Newly expanded Moorish-themed center includes Nordstrom, the nation’s most-visited movie complex, giant Ferris wheel and lots of restaurants including the world’s first Hello Kitty Grand Cafe. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 THE LAB Hip boutiques Urban Outfitters, Eye Society and Crew Salon; Habana and Hana Re restaurants. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13
RIDE TO
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LIDO MARINA VILLAGE Harbor-side Elyse Walker, Sweaty Betty and Alchemy Works boutiques, Sugar Paper for stationery, Nobu and Lido Bottle Works restaurants. 3434 Via Lido, Newport Beach, 949.675.8662 Map M15 MAINPLACE Indoor million-square-foot center offers Macy’s, 150 shops and 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport with rooftop basketball and open-air swimming. 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.547.7000 Map G13 THE OUTLETS AT ORANGE Includes DKNY, Levi’s, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th. Vans Skatepark for indoor boarding. 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.4001 Map J11 OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE Spanish-inspired oceanview center includes MadaLuxe Vault for discount luxury, Vans, Guess and O.C.’s California Welcome Center is new. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, outletsatsanclemente.com Map south of F6 PACIFIC CITY Center with beach views from every plaza, deck and patio. H&M, Free People, Vissla, Brand Melville and Urban Outfitters. 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.930.2345 Map N9 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Luxe design showrooms, OC Mix for 30 vendors including the Mixing Glass for mixologists and Taco María restaurant. 33033323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12 SOUTH COAST PLAZA “The Ultimate Shopping Experience.” Boutiques include spectacular Louis Vuitton; there’s a Spa Nordstrom, too. Macy’s Home Store and CB2 are in the Bear Street wing. New French restaurant Knife Pleat, Chalk & Vermilion Fine Art pop-up exhibit. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13
EATERTAINMENT STC ANAHEIM GARDENWALK Spectacular House of Blues, Mission Escape Games, Go VR Gaming, Harley-Davidson boutique and restaurants including Grasslands meat market, barbecue and churrasco. 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.635.7410 Map I10
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GOLF THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY Lifestyle destination offers AMC theaters and restaurants, the Winery, J. Zhou, Utopia European Caffé, and new Yellow Chilli; Union Market includes Stowaway for tiki cocktails, Central Bar and new Roba Noodle. Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.9090 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex adjacent to Disney theme parks includes Ballast Point brewery and Black Tap for burgers and shakes, both new, newly renovated Naples Ristorante, plus Studio Disney 365, Lego Store and Splitsville Luxury Lanes. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 THE SOURCE New. Asian-centric destination. Eden Sky and Threading House boutiques, CGV Cinemas, dPot shabu-shabu, K-Pop Music, Fifty One dumplings, Gangnam House. 6940 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.521.8858 Map G8 THE TRIANGLE Keys on Main dueling pianos, Time nightclub, Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, Starlight Cinemas, La Vida Cantina, H20 Sushi and new Cafe Sevilla. 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.0732 Map K12
GOLF COURSES ANAHEIM HILLS GOLF COURSE “The Hills.” 18 holes set amid vistas, valleys, streams, oaks and sycamores. M-Th $54, F $61, Sa-Su $72. Includes cart and GPS. Twilight rates. 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road, Anaheim, 714.998.3041 Map B5 MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Ocean views abound at the gorgeous 18-hole course. M-Th $185, F-Su $210. Includes a cart with GPS system. Twilight rates available. Monarch Beach Resort, 50 Monarch Beach Resort Drive N., Dana Point, 949.240.8247 Map J16 PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Two gorgeous 18-hole courses at the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; virtually every hole has spectacular coastal views. $295 daily. 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 877.735.4226 Map L17 TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB Resort-style course designed by Ted Robinson. Challenging greens, palm trees and lakes, clubhouse. Private caddie service. M-Th $145, F $165, Sa-Su $195. Additional cart fee. 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, 714.730.1611 Map C5
ACTIVE OUTDOORS BALBOA BOAT RENTALS AND PARASAIL Boat, kayak, SUP rentals, parasailing over harbor with choice of altitude ($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 Erik Nelsen Surf Camp, 949.464.0077. newportbeachca.gov Map D3
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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 PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES Electric bike rentals $20-$35 per hour or $75-$125 per day. Tour three piers and Newport Harbor for $89 per person. 301 5th St., Huntington Beach, 714.465.2782; 2515 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.612.7989; 4624 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.274.7944 Map N9, M16, D5
BEACHES ALISO CREEK COUNTY BEACH Steep shore creates powerful waves. All amenities and fire pits. Pay-anddisplay parking $1/hour. 31131 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280 Map I16
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BEACHES + PARKS BALBOA BEACH Pristine sunning/swimming beach. All amenities. Metered parking. Balboa Boulevard at Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N14 CORONA DEL MAR STATE BEACH Large, sandy beach below beautiful homes. Volleyball, lifeguards, fire pits, amenities. Waveless Pirate’s Cove Beach adjacent. Fee for parking. At Ocean Boulevard and Marguerite Avenue, Corona del Mar, 949.644.3151 Map M16 CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK Hiking and biking trails, sandy coves and steep cliffs. Historic district with beach cottages and the Beachcomber cafe. 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
IRVINE Where Tech Meets Trek.
Known as a leading tech and life science powerhouse, Irvine surprises with the most low tech open space in Orange County! Artfully manicured office parks are surrounded by more than 16,000 acres of preserved natural habitats and wildlands offering miles of offline hiking, running and biking trails. Connect offline.
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 MAIN BEACH Large beach adjacent to shops and restaurants has great people-watching, basketball, volleyball and chess. All amenities. Metered parking. Broadway and Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 714.834.2400 Map F5 NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL BEACH Wide golden strand with many fine surfing spots. All amenities, including fire pits. Metered parking. Along Oceanfront at Newport Pier, Newport Beach, 949.673.3371 Map N13 NEWPORT DUNES RESORT Beach at RV park on the Back Bay. Lifeguards, giant inflatable in-water novelties and various water vessels for rent. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.DUNE Map M14 SALT CREEK COUNTY BEACH Long stretch below Ritz-Carlton, grassy Bluff Park with basketball court. All amenities. Parking $1/hour. Off Ritz-Carlton Drive, 33333 S. Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.923.2280 Map J16 THOUSAND STEPS BEACH Two-hundred-something concrete steps lead to a small beach at the base of a cliff. Free street parking. 9th 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 with dangerous break. Free parking lot. West Jetty View Park, tip of Balboa Peninsula, end of Channel Road, Newport Beach, 949.644.3309 Map N1
NIGHTLIFE AQUA LOUNGE Waved ceiling, 360-degree bar, huge patio, street-food-inspired menu ... and group cocktails! Deejays Th-Su. Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 Map L15
destinationirvine.com
BLIND RABBIT Speakeasy with 1920s atmosphere hidden behind wall at Anaheim Packing House won the
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NIGHTLIFE most awards (three) at the Golden Foodies. 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; STC GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map D4, I10 THE BUNGALOW Expansive ocean views, sweeping decks, lush gardens, rustic interiors and seasonal bites by Bear Flag Fish Co. Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0399 Map N9 THE FIFTH Rooftop venue offers craft cocktails, live music, Disneyland fireworks. Grand Legacy at the Park, 1650 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.0899 Map I10 THE GUILD CLUB Tiny, quirky bar, formerly membersonly, opens to the public; superb cocktails/bites adjacent to Arc restaurant. South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Suite G, Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 Map J12 HIVE & HONEY Stylish, sprawling rooftop bar with 360-degree urban views; there’s some form of honey in most cocktails. Marriott Irvine Spectrum, 7905 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.759.0200 Map D5 IRVINE IMPROV Top comedy. Two-item minimum; Umami burgers. Irvine Spectrum Center, 572 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5455 Map D5 KEYS ON MAIN Two performers play requests on baby grand pianos. Shows Th-Sa (nightly). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.619.9850 Map K12 LOLA GASPAR Ever-hip bar and kitchen in the heart of downtown Santa Ana is arguably the area’s best. 211 W. 2nd St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13 MCCLAIN CELLARS New. Tasting room featuring acclaimed wines from Santa Ynez Valley, plus charcuterie, olive oils, artisan popcorn and music. 849 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.471.8710 Map E5 OFFSHORE 9 O.C.’s highest coastal rooftop lounge. Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.8000 Map N9 THE RANCH SALOON The best in live country music and dance—and free dance lessons—adjacent to top-tier Ranch Restaurant. 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 Map I11 ROOFTOP LOUNGE Sunset cocktails and panoramic coastal views atop La Casa del Camino hotel. 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446 Map I15 SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND LOUNGE Stylish spot ideal for pre- or post-theater cocktails. 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 Map J13 SPLITSVILLE LUXURY LANES Twenty bowling lanes on two floors at Downtown Disney; live music daily. 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 657.276.2440 Map I10 STRUT BAR & CLUB New. Queer venue with entertainment lineup including drag brunch, DJs. 719 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.536.4389 Map L12 TEATRO MARTINI Cabaret experience for couples and groups; comedy, acrobatics, magic, singing, dancing and dining. Th-F 8 pm, Sa 9 pm, Su 8 pm. $69.95. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 844.249.7865 Map G8 TIME NIGHTCLUB Spectacular club in domed building; musical acts and big-name DJs. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7103 Map K12 TOPSIDE ROOF DECK Rooftop bar atop beach-housechic Lido House Hotel. 3300 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.524.8500 Map N13
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EXPLORE
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TREEHOUSE Superstylish rooftop lounge atop Tanner’s restaurant with ocean views. Paséa Hotel, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130 Map N9
EXPLORE AMTRAK Trains stop in Fullerton, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com ANAHEIM REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INTERMODAL CENTER (ARTIC) Spectacular hub for Metrolink/Amtrak trains, OCTA buses, Anaheim Resort Transportation, shuttles and taxis. 1750 S. Douglass Road, Anaheim, 877.99.ARTIC, articinfo.com ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) 19 routes, transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk, Anaheim Convention Center. Purchase passes online or at Amtrak station and select hotels. 888.364.2787, rideart.org CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Catamaran with underwater viewing pod. Departures daily. $35-$59. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828 Map J16 CATALINA EXPRESS Round trip to Catalina Island. Inside Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Harbor; 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, 800.481.3470 Map K16, northwest of C1 CATALINA FLYER Triple-decker catamaran, 75 minutes to Catalina Island. Call for schedule. $53-$70, $6 age 2 and under. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 800.830.7744, catalinainfo.com Map N15 CITY PASS Includes discounted admission to Disney parks, admission to others in Los Angeles and San Diego. Purchase online or at attractions. $269-$306, under 3 free. 888.330.5008, citypass.com DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING AND WHALE WATCHING Sportfishing, whale-watching trips, twilight wine cruises and schooner yacht for charters. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.496.5794, danawharf.com Map K16 DAVEY’S LOCKER Whale-watching, deep-sea fishing charters, boat rentals, entertainment cruises. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 949.673.1434, daveyslocker.com Map N15 HORNBLOWER CRUISES Luxury party yachts. F-Sa dinner-dance cruises, Sa-Su champagne brunch. Mariner’s Mile Marina, 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.0155, hornblower.com Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT O.C. gateway is superior to LAX in ambiance and ease. Art exhibits. 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, 949.252.5200, ocair.com LAGUNA BEACH TROLLEY Free service year-round along Coast Highway. F 4-11 pm, Sa 11 am-11 pm and Su 11 am-8 pm. visitlagunabeach.com/trolley Map H15 METROLINK Trains connect to San Diego and Los Angeles; stops include San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton, Buena Park. $10 weekend pass (Sa-Su) for rails, public transportation. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com ORANGE COUNTY ADVENTURE TOURS Tours and transportation to L.A., Hollywood, Universal Studios, Temecula wine and O.C. coast. Hotel pickup. 714.960.6790, ocadventuretours.com
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MainPlace Mall Discovery Cube
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The Camp The Lab
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30 THINGS WE LOVE IN O.C.
14
22
3 1 New food/art pop-up museum
29
Cheat Day Land, Irvine Spectrum Center. cheatdayland.com
9 Surf and skate apparel at Outlets at San Clemente’s Sun Diego Boardshop. 949.441.7844
16 The sculpture garden at Newport Beach Civic Center Park. 949.644.3309
24 The CBD Facial at Be(YOU)tiful in Newport Beach. 949.515.2900.
2 Aaria Luggage at STC Anaheim GardenWalk. 714.635.5464
10 Ice skating at huge new Great Park Ice & FivePoint Arena in Irvine. p. 37
17 Zabuton steak at Orange
25 Hiking trails at Crystal
Hill Restaurant in Orange. p. 32
Cove State Park in Laguna Beach. p. 42
3 Cocktails at new Social
11 Anaheim Ducks ice hockey
Huntington Beach. p. 28
games at Honda Center in Anaheim. p. 36
4 Gifts and global crafts at Brass Tack in Laguna Beach. 949.715.0310
5 Women’s apparel and accessories at Pürre at the Camp in Costa Mesa. 714.641.0101
6 New men’s athleisure shop Vuori at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. 949.423.2066
7 Pecan-wood-smoked barbecue at Memphis Cafe in Costa Mesa. p. 26
8 Elaborate feasts at Korean restaurant Kyung Bok Kung in Buena Park. p. 24
12 The library at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. p. 38
13 Gifty items and clothing at new Prism Boutique at the Lab in Costa Mesa. 714.549.2925
14 Burgers at the Penalty Box at new SteelCraft Garden Grove food hall. p. 27
15 The steps at Thousand Steps Beach in Laguna Beach. p. 42
18 Cocktails and quirky decor at The Guild Club in Costa Mesa. p. 43 19 Canine boutique Charlie & Me at Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach. 949.887.0036
26 Off-the-field baseball attire at Baseballism at Irvine Spectrum Center. 949.288.5313 27 New queer venue Strut Bar & Club in Costa Mesa. p. 43
20 A Walk Through Local History at Muzeo in Anaheim. p. 29
28 Mai tai at Tommy Bahama
21 K-Pop Music Town at
29 New ba&sh boutique at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. 714.708.2920
the Source in Buena Park. 213.984.5555
22 New Helmsman Ale House in Newport Beach. p. 31
23 Asian fusion fare at new Hiccups restaurant and teahouse in Santa Ana. 714.760.4313
restaurant, bar and store, Corona del Mar Plaza. 949.706.8686
30 Themed dishware at Disney Home at Downtown Disney in Anaheim. 714.781.4565
COURTESIES: #3 SOCIAL, #13 PRISM, #14 PENALTY BOX, #22 HELMSMAN ALE HOUSE, #29 BA&SH.
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JUST 1 5 MINU TES FROM ANAH EIM!
The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum Take an unexpected look at the life and legacy of Richard Nixon at a completely new, highly interactive presidential museum. BIRTHPLACE I MARINE ONE HELICOPTER I RARE ARTIFACTS I WHITE HOUSE EAST ROOM I ROSE GARDEN
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