SPRING 2019 SOCALPULSE.COM
ORANGE COUNTY
BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED P!NK IN ANAHEIM COOL COASTAL HIKES SANDWICHES ALL OVER
Couture Beyond Fashions by Chinese designer Guo Pei at Bowers Museum
Artistic depiction Artistic depiction of ride vehicle. of ride vehicle.
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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.
AMC TUSTIN 14
Visit TheDistrictTL.com to plan your perfect day! @TheDistrictTustin @DistrictTustin CINNAHOLIC EASY ACCESS OFF TUSTIN RANCH RD, NEAR BARRANCA PKWY IN TUSTIN
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ORANGE COUNTY Spring 2019
CONTENTS
THE GUIDE
DEPARTMENTS 4 Editor’s Note
32 DINING
Restaurants categorized by cuisine
Good gully!
6 Hot Dates 44 ENTERTAINMENT
P!nk at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
Special events, performing arts and sports
56 30 Things We Love 46 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS
WHERE NOW
Theme parks, cultural venues and exhibitions
8 Out and About
49 SHOPPING
Couture Beyond at the Bowers, Newport Beach Film Festival and new Furla at South Coast Plaza.
The county’s major retail destinations 50 GOLF
10 Dining
The most beautiful and most interesting courses
New Harley Laguna Beach, Pickled Monk in Fullerton and Omakase by Gino in Santa Ana.
51 NIGHTLIFE
Hottest clubs, lounges, bars and wine bars
SPRING 2019 SOCALPULSE.COM
51 TOURS + TRANSPORT
ORANGE COUNTY
STAL
G & DINING
COOL COASTAL HIKES
d in Newport Beach with over 150 world-class
entary personal shopping assistance available.
eart of Orange County, where visitors discover
pping, dining, lifestyle and entertainment center.
Getting out, and getting from here to there
12
BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED P!NK IN ANAHEIM
On the trail in Crystal Cove State Park
SANDWICHES ALL OVER
ON ISLAND®
IONISL AND.COM
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ED O MEXICAN CUISINE BY RICK BAYLESS
CITY TOURS
ITSUPPLY • SUSHI ROKU • AND MORE...
TRUMCENTER.COM
ET • ANTHROPOLOGIE & CO.
M • HURLEY/NIKE SB • L’OCCITANE
ERS • QUIKSILVER • TOMMY BAHAMA
Fashions by Chinese designer Guo Pei at Bowers Museum
RILL • P.F. CHANG’S • HELLO KITTY CAFE
X • IMPROV COMEDY CLUB • AND MORE...
FEATURES
Irvine Company LLC. All Rights Reserved
1/10/19 10:09 AM
12 Coolest Coastal Hikes
ON THE COVER Elysium collection, 2018, from Guo Pei: Couture Beyond at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. Courtesy Guo Pei, Rose Studios. See page 8.
Trails in state parks and wilderness parks in and around Laguna Beach are the county’s coolest, figuratively and literally. Most come with ocean breezes. BY JOSEPH ELLIOTT
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Metro Cities The Coast South Coast North County 5
Sandwiches in Orange County push the envelope in terms of quality, concept or both. Here are two dozen you can write home about. BY BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
MAPS
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The Marketplace
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Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Explore the county north to south and A to Z PAGE 53 133
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FivePoint Amphitheatre
The Triangle
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Lido Marina Village
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The best-designed holes on the best-designed golf courses give players plenty to look at—and more to think about. BY BRIAN ROBIN
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20 Holey Moley!
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BENJAMIN GINSBERG
Couture Beyond
CTRUM CENTER®
THE ULTIMATE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE AN EXTRAORDINARY COLLECTION OF 250 BOUTIQUES AND 30 RESTAURANTS Adidas Originals · Alexander McQueen · Anthropologie · Apple · Beautytap · Bottega Veneta · Brunello Cucinelli Cartier · Chanel · Christian Louboutin · Coach · Diesel · Dior · Dior Men · Dolce&Gabbana · Gianvito Rossi Givenchy · Golden Goose · Gucci · John Hardy · Louis Vuitton · Lululemon Athletica · Maje · Max Mara Microsoft · Porsche Design · Prada · Saint Laurent · Sandro · Sephora · Tiffany & Co. · Tory Burch · Valentino Din Tai Fung · Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar · Terrace by Mix Mix · Vaca · Water Grill · Yellow Vase partial listing
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WELCOME
W YLAND
A Note From the Editor
GOOD GULLY!
Our Radiant Reef Original painting by Wyland ©
Wyland Galleries Laguna Beach
509 South Coast Highway Laguna Beach, CA 92651 800-WYLAND-1 OPEN DAILY 9 AM TO 8 PM
www.wyland.com
I’m an avid hiker. I’ve explored every trail in this issue’s hiking feature multiple times, and I’ve lived in Orange County my entire adult life. Imagine my surprise when I recently discovered a trail hidden in plain sight—whose start I had driven past hundreds of times and not known it was there. Canyon Watch Park in Newport Beach, just up San Joaquin Hills Road from spectacular Roger’s Gardens nursery, appears to be little
Buck Gully Trail in Newport Beach crisscrosses a stream past vibrant wild mustard and orange California poppies; heed the “be listening” sign to find coveys of quail.
Follow Wyland 4 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019 WG_WHERE AD_OC_SpringSummer19.indd 1
more than a parking turnout and gazebo lookout onto canyon views, as the name suggests, and gorgeous estates of Newport Coast. But there’s a lot more, especially during wildflower season, and especially if you take the paved walkway along the road to adjacent Harbor Watch Park: It offers panoramic Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island and—as its name suggests—Newport Harbor vistas, as well as Bobcat Trail, which leads down the canyon to Buck Gully Reserve. Buck Gully Trail, below Pelican Hill Golf Club, crisscrosses a stream past vibrant wild mustard and orange California poppies to its turnaround near Poppy Avenue in Corona del Mar; heed the “be listening” sign to find coveys of quail. (You can also start from Poppy Avenue.) Après hike, consider Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens; its midday menu offers artisanal veggie or carne panini. For two dozen other memorable sandwiches, see page 16; for the best golf holes at Pelican Hill, see p. 20; and for other cool coastal hikes, see p. 12. —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
1/8/19 4:12 PM
VLADIMIR PERLOVICH. TRAIL, BENJAMIN GINSBERG
G A L L E R I ES
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‘Buy it now’ or bid on exceptional fine art
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Philippe Bertho, Friday, April 5, 6–8 PM
Martin•Lawrence Galleries South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear Street (949) 759-0134 M A R T I N L AW R E N C E .C O M • S O U T H C OA S T@ M A R T I N L AW R E N C E .C O M
ON THE WEB: socalpulse.com SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 5 Where OC spring 2019 quad.indd 1
1/16/19 12:59 PM
WHERE CALENDAR
HOT DATES Spring 2019
APRIL 13 P!NK Singer, songwriter, dancer and actress P!nk—one of the world's bestselling artists, having sold more than 90 million records—stops at the Honda Center in Anaheim as part of a world tour that continues to promote Beautiful Trauma, the third bestselling album of 2017. The raspy-voiced P!nk has earned three Grammy Awards, an Emmy and seven MTV Video Music Awards; Billboard named her Woman of the Year in 2013. Julia Michaels is special guest at the concert. p. 44
1 ALADDIN THE MUSICAL > MARCH 6-23 Disney’s Broadway hit, left, features songs from the film and new music written by Tony and Academy Award winner Alan Menken. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com for the up-tothe-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.
6 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
2 GUO PEI: COUTURE BEYOND > OPENING MARCH 9 More than 30 breathtaking designs by couturiere Guo Pei underline her global impact on the fashion world and beyond. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600, bowers.org
3 DUCKS VS. KINGS > APRIL 5 The Anaheim Ducks take to the ice against their freeway rivals, the Los Angeles Kings. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com 4 ANGELS VS. YANKEES > APRIL 22-25 The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim face off against the team’s New York nemesis. Anaheim Stadium, 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com 5 NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL > APRIL 25-MAY 2 The 20th-anniversary event presents 350 films—features, shorts, documentaries and animation—from 50
countries at various movie theaters as well as seminars and parties. newportbeachfilmfest.com 6 DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL > MAY 18-19 Blues, rock and rhythm and blues on three stages, plus microbrew tastings and wine lounge, at Doheny State Beach. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, dohenybluesfestival.com 7 HARVEY > OPENING MAY 29 Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy about a man and his imaginary friend, a 6½-foot-tall rabbit. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787, lagunaplayhouse.com
PINK , KURT ISWARIENKO. ALADDIN, DEEN VAN MEER
7 THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED
WHERE NOW The best in entertainment, attractions, shopping and dining
OUT + ABOUT
Couture Beyond Guo Pei is China’s most renowned couturiere. For more than 20 years, she has dressed celebrities, royalty and political elite, breathing new life into ancient Chinese embroidery and painting traditions. Guo Pei: Couture Beyond, opening March 9 at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, showcases more than 30 of her designs, masterpieces of fabric, shape and texture inspired by fairy tales, legends and even military history. Her stunning creations can take thousands of hours and up to two years to complete. 2015 marked a turning point for Guo Pei: Pop singer Rihanna wore one of her designs to the Met Gala in New York to inaugurate the museum's China: Through the Looking Glass exhibition, which included Guo’s designs, and she had her first solo exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. The following year, Guo made her Paris Haute Couture debut and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People. p. 48
Golden Goose Deluxe Brand. At Furla, ensemble (right) and Mimi handbag (below).
OPPOSITE: SAMSARA COLLECTION, 2006, COURTESY GUO PEI, ROSE STUDIOS
ITALIANATE Known for its handbags and accessories and based in an 18th-century villa in Bologna, Italy, luxury leather-goods company Furla has opened its newest U.S. boutique at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. The store’s concept is minimalist yet sophisticated, combining its Italian heritage with contemporary design. It offers women’s and men’s small leather goods, shoes, sunglasses and scarves in an 1,100-square-foot space adjacent to Bloomingdale’s on Level 2. The Furlanetto family created Furla in 1927 and still owns it. Golden Goose Deluxe Brand, founded in 2000 and based in Venice, Italy, also opens at South Coast Plaza. Presenting sophisticated footwear and apparel that merges American style with Italian wearability, the luxury fashion house is known for its attention to detail and signature “lived-in” treatment. p. 50
Film Fest The Newport Beach Film Festival marks its 20th anniversary April 25-May 2. The event presents a diverse collection of studio and independent films from around the globe, screening more than 300 features and short films—winnowed from 3,000 submissions—and welcoming 500 filmmakers and 50,000 film fans to locations across
the city, including Edwards Big Newport 6 (opposite Fashion Island) and the Regency Lido Theater (near Lido Island). Categories include AA+D (art, architecture and design), documentaries and shorts as well as environmental, music and family films. Due in part to the coastal location, there is an emphasis on action-sports films. The collegiate showcase
spotlights new voices of indie cinema. The O.C. Film Society has presented The King’s Speech, The Artist, 12 Years a Slave, The Imitation Game and City of Gold with directors, actors and/or screenwriters in attendance. Other events have honored or featured Robert Wise, Elmer Bernstein, Roy E. Disney, Rita Moreno and Richard Sherman. p. 44 SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 9
WHERE NOW / Spring
2019
DINING
HIGH ON HARLEY
Moroccan-spiced roasted cauliflower at Harley Laguna Beach
Continuing the relationship they enjoyed for years at acclaimed Haven in Orange, chef-owner Greg Daniels and chef de cuisine Landon Pulizzi open Harley Laguna Beach, named for Daniels’ grandfather, in the space formerly occupied by Ryan Adams’ Three Seventy Common. The decor now manages to be at once midcentury modern—check out those molecular chandeliers—and cozy, thanks to a bookcase filled with books. Peruse one over a Perfect Rye Boulevardier cocktail. Continue with creatively tweaked fine-dining staples such as Baja Kumiai oysters with foamed pickled-tomatillo mignonette; shredded Kennebec hash fries with chive aioli and optional Osetra caviar; fried halloumi cheese with Blinking Owl aquavit; grilled avocado with the avocado leaf and pit and avocado oil; wood-grilled local spiny lobster; wildboar loin with Jones coffee rub, grilled grapefruit and oregano; and, every bit as memorable, grandma’s salted chocolate chip cookies. p. 32
OmG! Sushi chef Gino Choi, well known in North County, has unveiled intimate Omakase by Gino, a 10-seat omakase-only restaurant in more centrally located downtown Santa Ana. The set-price menu—three appetizers, sashimi, 10 pieces of nigiri sushi, two signature dishes and dessert—is “for serious sushi lovers,” Choi says, and changes nightly. Offerings, flown in daily from Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo as well as local seafood delicacies, might include otoro, bluefin tuna, kampachi, seasonal rockfish, Hokkaido uni, Kushii and Kumamoto 10 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
oysters, flying fish eggs, blue crab, scallops, monkfish liver and tomago. Uni pasta is a signature—and the noodles, topped with truffle and pollock roe, are every bit as engaging as the urchin. Choi was born in Seoul, South Korea; his love for sushi came from his grandfather, who was raised in Japan. He moved to the United States at age 22 and opened his first sushi restaurant soon after. In 2007, he opened Kaori in Fullerton, where he gained a large following; a number of fans have followed him to Santa Ana. p. 37
Omakase by Gino ownerchef Gino Choi
The Monk Life Abbey ambience meets brick-and-chandelier decor, California comfort dishes with global tweaks and self-pour craft-beerand-wine wall with 30 taps—and a beer vending machine in the next room—at new Pickled Monk gastropub in vibrant downtown Fullerton. Chef David Fuñe’s shareable dishes include the absolutely don’t-miss Brussels sprouts with bacon-gochujang jam, honey and Point Reyes blue cheese. Continue with the fried chicken-and-doughnuts—chicken fritters, sugar-dusted beignets, spicy buttermilk pickles and habanero maple syrup— or kitchen-inspired weekly poutine. Finish with the house-made Cherry Garcia float, made with Stubborn root beer and optional Belching Beaver Peanut Butter Stout (pictured). It all plays out beneath a soaring arch. And may your sins be forgiven! p. 34
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 11
The county’s best trails are in or near Laguna Beach. Most come with ocean breezes.
b y JOSE PH E L L IO T T
THERE ARE GREAT NATURE WALKS ALONG THE COAST. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve come to mind. Elevation gain: near zero. Difficulty: Easiest. ¶ You could spend all day slogging up Santiago Peak, aka Saddleback Mountain, the county’s high point at 5,689 feet. Elevation gain: 4,000 feet. Difficulty: Difficult. ¶ Then there are the county’s ideal hikes. ¶ All in or near Laguna Beach, these offer elevation gain and points of interest, can be done in a morning and, given their proximity to the coast, are also the coolest—figuratively and literally.
Laurel Canyon in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 13
Find the Valido, Car Wreck and Dripping Cave trails in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park; the Laurel Canyon-Willow Canyon Loop in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park; and Moro Canyon in Crystal Cove State Park. For those with limited time, the Valido Trail—easily accessed, a mile round trip and doable in under an hour—is the county’s best. Park on Valido Drive in Laguna Beach near West Street; the trailhead is between two residences. Elevation gain is 400 feet; the trail gets steeper as it goes. Cross a creek near the start; turn left at Aliso Summit Trail; and mount the log steps to the summit, where you find a bench and incredible coastal vistas. Retrace your steps. Car Wreck Trail is far more challenging. Even the drive to the trailhead offers hefty vertical gain! Park at Alta Laguna Park, 14 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
aka Top of the World, amid architecturally stunning homes. As that name suggests, this hike, unlike most, starts at the top, and it’s far easier on the way down than on the way back up. It’s steep. Begin along the West Ridge Trail; turn right at Mathis Canyon Trail; and turn right on Car Wreck and descend. Near the bottom are the ruins of a vehicle, variously identified as a 1946 Dodge and a 1947 Volvo, embedded just off the trail, and it is mind-boggling to imagine how it got there. Head back up. Distance: About 3 demanding miles round trip. Or continue: Turn left onto Oak Grove Trail, then right onto Dripping Cave Trail, both easy, and add 2 more miles round trip. They lead past smaller caves to Dripping Cave, or Robbers Cave, used by thieves, says a sign, after robbing stages or stealing livestock.
The 3.5-mile Laurel Canyon-Willow Canyon Loop begins at a small lot on the west side of Laguna Canyon Road south of El Toro Road. The trail leads past old sycamores and sandstone outcroppings, scenes that might have attracted the early California Impressionists, to the top of seasonal 50-foot Laurel Canyon Falls, which out and back makes for a pleasant 1.5-mile jaunt. To continue further, turn left onto the Laguna Spur, right onto Willow Canyon Trail and up to Bommer Ridge; glimpse the ocean in one direction, and take in Santiago Peak, big as day, in the other. Descend via the Willow Canyon fire road. All trails at Crystal Cove State Park, north of Laguna Beach, offer spectacular ocean views. Take El Moro Canyon Road from Coast Highway to the ranger station. Easiest is the 3-mile Moro Canyon out-and-back.
OPENING SPREAD, VALIDO AND DRIPPING CAVE, CHLOE EPSTEIN. CAR WRECK, JOSEPH ELLIOTT
Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park: (clockwise from left) Valido Trail, Dripping Cave Trail and 1940s car wreck on Car Wreck Trail
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SLICES OF LIFE TWO DOZEN SANDWICHES YOU CAN WRITE HOME ABOUT. by BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
Crispy Brussels Bรกnh Mรฌ at Sessions West Coast Deli
MAN DOES NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE,
Pulled pork sandwich at Q Joint
says Scripture. For secular foodies, that verse might end, “but by everything that goes on it.” Americans do live by sandwiches: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about half the country eats a sandwich on any given day. Visitors to Orange County—where sandwiches push the envelope in terms of quality, concept or both—would do well to stick with the program. Continuing trends here include Asian and Latin influences, greater spice in general and chile peppers in particular; evermore contrasting textures—“crispy” might be the descriptor of the year—and flavors; and artisanal bread. Pork is huge; charcuterie is also in. If you ate a sandwich every day for a year in Orange County, you wouldn’t scratch the surface when it comes to good ones. Here are the most memorable—in some cases, remarkable—meals on sliced bread we’ve enjoyed of late.
COURTESY Q JOINT. OPPOSITE: COURTESY SESSION WEST COAST DELI.
CRISPY BRUSSELS BÁNH MÌ / SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Who puts Brussels sprouts on a sandwich? Where’s the pâté? Find a fascinating vegetarian version of the iconic Vietnamese sandwich at a spot that manages to be both fast-casual and chefdriven. Sweet, spicy and savory, this bánh mì spotlights produce rather than pork—Brussels sprouts done crispy, watermelon radish, cucumbers, fresh cilantro and mint, pickled onion and thin-sliced jalapeño—plus chile garlic sauce, Sriracha aioli and sesame seeds on OC Baking's Jersey hard roll. 4736 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.333.3949; 414 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.594.3899; 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001
STEAK SANDWICH / ARC Noah von Blöm—named O.C.’s best chef at the 2018 Golden Foodie awards—always delivers on his motto “flame, flavor, finesse,” and this citrus-marinated skirt-steak sandwich is no exception. The steak—perfectly medium-rare or whatever your requested doneness—shares a house-baked, fire-toasted, cornmeal-crusted, curly-parsleytopped sourdough roll with aioli, spinach tossed in buttermilk dressing, pickled fresno chiles,
caramelized onions and Gruyère fondue. Another option is the Sloppy Joe with Texas chili, aged cheddar and fried egg. In either case, also be sure to order the best fries in the known universe. SoCo and OC Mix, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561
CRISPY PORK SHOULDER AND CRACKLINGS / BURNT CRUMBS Burnt Crumbs gets endless attention for its spaghetti sandwich, an Instagram darling if ever there was one. Meanwhile, the hall-of-famer in our book is this one featuring crispy pork shoulder and cracklings, laced with chile lime and salsa verde, a texture and taste-bud fiesta served up on house ciabatta. Some sandwiches on the menu rotate out seasonally; please, Lord, don’t let this one ever go away. Bonus: There’s a pre- or postpork pingpong table at the Huntington Beach location, inside the Lot 579 food hall. Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0777; Los Olivos, 8549 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.502.5998
LOBSTER ROLL / THE CANNERY SEAFOOD OF THE PACIFIC A boatload of lobster—a pound and a quarter of claws and tail butter-poached to tender perfection, dressed in lemon-Old
Bay aioli, topped with chives and micro celery—crowns a top-split, gorgeously burnished butter bun. The roll is in a class of its own; the fries beguile, too. Bonus: Newport Harbor views. It’s pricey at $32. 3010 Lafayette Road, Newport Beach, 949.566.0060
THE SOUTHERN SAMURAI / BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN Before it closed last year, finedining spot Three Seventy Common in Laguna Beach hosted an acclaimed friedchicken dinner once a month. When owner-chef Ryan Adams opened fast-casual Buttermilk, he brought the recipes for the chicken and sides with him. This sandwich enhances the bird with chile oil, soy mayo, mint, cilantro, lettuce, carrot, jalapeño and fresno chile. It glistens with chile oil and soy mayo; the oil and two peppers leave a nascent glow. The samurai reference may be Japanese, but the mint, carrot and jalapeño suggest a bánh mì. The white-bread bun is a foil for a Mt. Fuji of flavor. 238 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.941.9124
ROASTED PORCHETTA / BRAIZEN SEXY SANDWICHES Pork butt and belly—rolled and roasted with herbs and garlic, then grilled to sensuously
crispy perfection—join arugula, hazelnut-and-parsley gremolata and lemon aioli on a toasted French roll. The jus for dipping would be superfluous were it not so tasty itself. All that said, it’s a toss-up which is better, the roasted porchetta or the guajillo pork torta: slow-cooked pork simmered in red guajillo chile sauce and topped with avocado crema, pickled onions, shredded cabbage, cilantro, tomato ... and a little melty cheese skirt! This newcomer is tucked behind a DoubleTree by Hilton near the airport. 31 E. MacArthur Crescent, Santa Ana, 657.900.2040
Clobster Grilled Cheese / SLAPFISH Cholesterol hell—or heaven! Thanks to lots and lots of lobster, copious chopped crab, monumental mozzarella and a buttery grilled brioche, this ode to grilled cheese attacks arteries with gleeful abandon. Natural-cut fries are dusted with an Old Bay-paprika mix and served with tangy “fry sauce.” 211 Broadway St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.0460; 19696 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.963.3900; 3405 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 657.444.2291; 4249 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.748.1174; 2727 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.723.0034
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 17
SALMON SMØRREBRØD / LIDO BOTTLE WORKS
Skirt steak sandwich at Arc in Costa Mesa
GREEN CURRY CHICKEN BREAST / OCEAN AT MAIN It’s a tale of two cities—Bangkok and Barcelona—and Michelinstarred mentors; think Thai chicken dip with a soupçon of Spain. Seared breast and leg are simmered with lime- and garliclaced curry and served on toasted ciabatta with pickled shallots, napa cabbage and piquillo aioli. It had its origins decades ago as an after-work treat in the kitchen with chef Joël Antunes. “I have been dreaming of this sandwich for years,” says chef Craig Strong, who opened his spot after nine years at Studio at the Montage. 222 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.3870
BRISKET MEATLOAF SANDWICH / LEFT COAST BREWING CO. The brisket holds together as a loaf tenuously at best, but the statuesque construct—of Gouda cheese, crispy shoestring onions, barbecue sauce and dill pickles on Texas toast—is a flavor bomb that not even double-thick toast can contain. There’s a panoply of housemade beers and spirits to sample—the new spot is a brewery and distillery as well as a restaurant. Order a flight. 18 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
Served at a harborside hideaway, this open-faced, fork-and-knife affair is among the county’s most elaborate constructs. Inspired by Denmark’s breadand-butter feasts—smørrebrød means “butter and bread”—it lives up to those repasts’ reputation as being equally decadent and decorative. Faroe Island salmon stars; chef Amy Lebrun finishes it with horseradish-dill aioli, frisee, radish, watercress, cornichons, Espelette peppers and sour rye. Lido Marina Village, 3408 Via Oporto, Suite 103, Newport Beach, 949.529.2784
LA ESPAÑOLA BOCADILLO / PUEBLO Tapas mecca Pueblo’s porcine ode finds freshly sliced jamón serrano, house-smoked wildboar shoulder, the Spanish salami salchichón, marinated manchego, pickled zucchini, fresno aioli and piquillo-dressed arugula on fresh-baked ciabattastyle bread from Bread Artisan Bakery. Sharing the plate, a sweet foil to the saltiness of the charcuterie, is a marvelous red quinoa salad with golden raisin relish. Served at lunch Mon.-Fri. SoCo and OC Mix, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775
panini
Italian pressed sandwiches
Torta de Lengua / Old Vine Kitchen + Bar
A Mexican panino? Chef Mark McDonald was trained in southern Italy, leads culinary tours to Southern Italy, and teaches at the Italian Culinary Institute in Italy. And yet ... his menu offers a Mexicaninspired tender slow-cooked beef-tongue sandwich with tomatillo salsa, pickled serrano chile and pepper jack cheese on potato focaccia by OC Baking. Enjoy them with red-skin potato chips with Cajun seasoning or beautiful mixed greens topped with aged pecorino cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. Old Vine has just moved next door (into the former Ecco Pizzeria space) and added a bar. The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411
Reuben / SideDoor
A Jewish panino? In an English gastropub? SideDoor, marking its 10th year, shares a replica of England’s oldest inn with venerated Five Crowns, which not so long ago marked its 50th. The Reuben was invented in the early 20th century by either a Jewish Lithuanian-born grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, first name Reuben, or a German-
Jewish owner of a New York City delicatessen, last name Reuben. Pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss and Russian dressing on rye are the classic but here Gruyère and pressed sourdough rye make a richer match for craft ales such as Old Speckled Hen or sour Green Flash Nouveau Tarte. 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322
Panini / Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse
Back to basics—an Italian panino! Never mind that the menu employs the Americanish plural for the singular, panini are about proportions: Too much bread, no good. Too much meat, no good. But crusty pressed focaccia, buttered on every conceivable surface, filled with paperthin, almost lasciviously yielding soppressata, mortadella and capicola, Provolone and a one-two punch of tapenade and whole-grain mustard? Too good! The new spot is the first West Coast location of an East Coast chain with nine other locations. Pick your setting: white-jacket service in the dining room, or the popular bar. Irvine Towers, 18420 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.477.4810
Reuben at SideDoor in Corona del Mar
TUNA VEGGIE / MOULIN BAKERY CAFÉ Wrapped sandwiches are piled high in a display case at these upmarket meccas for francophiles. Think of this one as a niçoise sandwich: House-made soft bread, as streamlined as a UFO, barely conceals tuna prepared with shallot-chivehot-sauce aioli and topped with slices of hard-boiled egg, red onion and Kalamata olives. You’ll also find anything else you might need for a piquenique français. 48 Forest Ave.,
Laguna Beach, 949.715.6990; 1000 N. Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920
PHO RIB-EYE DIP / ANQI BISTRO Decor alone—a sexy setting with backlit bar and 60-foot glass catwalk over a running
stream—makes every meal at AnQi feel like a special occasion, and that extends to the lone sandwich on its innovative Cal-Vietnamese menu. Rib-eye is joined by caramelized onions and a three-cheese fondue of manchego, Swiss and aged
ARC, MARÍN VON BLÖM; SIDEDOOR, ANNE WATSON. OPPOSITE: COURTESY BURNT CRUMBS; ADYA, ANNE WATSON
Order the sandwich. Contemplate a sip. Contemplate a bite. Repeat. 6652 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.387.5170
YELLOWFIN TUNA STEAK SANDWICH / THE CATCH
white cheddar on a baguette and served alongside a bowl of chef “Mama” Helene An’s pho broth for dipping. South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679
Fried avocado? Wonderful. Tempura avocado? Even better. Blackened, perfectly rare sashimi-grade ahi—the main ingredient—is also a lure. But what sets the hook are the sesame slaw—which brings crunch and pairs with the sesame brioche bun—and tasty togarashi aioli. The Catch, near major sports and entertainment venues including Angels Stadium and the Honda Center, features ales and lagers from sibling Taps Fish House & Brewery. 2100 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.935.0101
Chicken Scaloppine Sandwich / BISTANGO Imagine an Italian entrée on a sandwich, and meatballs might come to mind. Business magnet Bistango offers a more upmarket creation: Grilled chicken on a bed of wild arugula is layered with prosciutto di Parma, fontina cheese and tomatoes, finished with lemon caper aioli and served on artisan bread. Enjoy it in any of several spaces filled with paintings. 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.752.5222
Anchovy Bocadillo / VACA Anchovies, mozzarella, piquillopepper confit, red-pepper jam, green olives.... The presumed outsized flavor profiles of these ingredients paired with Amar Santana’s outsized personality might suggest otherwise, but here the chef is all modesty. You only think you don't like anchovies—these tender lovelies are nothing like what you might get in a supermarket or put on a
Crispy pork shoulder and cracklings sandwich at Burnt Crumbs
pizza. Santana, near-winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13 and the recent Korean Food Battle on South Korea’s Olive TV, also heads up Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach and the Hall Global Eatery at South Coast Plaza, opening in summer. 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.463.6060
Pulled Pork / THE Q JOINT Would we recommend a sandwich you can get only one morning a week? At a farmers market? In the case of the 12-hour-hickory-smoked,
marinated and spice-rubbed pulled pork shoulder with slaw on garlic Texas toast at the Q Joint booth—the only sandwich on the menu among entrées including USDA Prime brisket— the answer is a resounding yes. Let’s just say pitmaster Benny Chang comes with some serious credentials: His advanced certifications and awards include barbecue Judge of the Year for California. The Irvine Farmers Market takes place Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Mariners Church, 5001 Newport Coast Drive, Irvine, 714.573.0374
THE MIGHTY ZEUS / MEAT UP BBQ This spot in the northernmost reaches of the county specializes in traditional hickory-smoked barbecue fare—including what may be the county’s best brisket —but owes much of its popularity to untraditional creations such as a Greek-god-almighty smoked-tri-tip sandwich with fried cherry peppers, tapenade, garlic aioli and feta cheese on a french roll. Twenty-five beers on tap include lots of hoppies, hazies and sours. 1450 N. Kraemer Blvd., Placentia, 714.983.7558
packing them in
No single address in the county boasts more intriguing sandwich options than its premier food hall, the Anaheim Packing House. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim The #1 / Black Sheep GCB
Black Sheep’s siblings include Anaheim’s Center Street Cheese and the Cheese Shop at Costa Mesa’s OC Mix. The GCB stands for Grilled Cheese Bar. Pick the right seat, order the #1, and the OC Baking marble-rye bread will be buttered and pressed to burnished perfection before your eyes. On it are goat cheese, caramelized onions, roasted tomatoes and an arugula pesto that conjure an idyllic pastoral scene that any sheep would gladly inhabit. The #1 is the bar’s most popular item. 714.533.3850
Spicy Andouille Po’Boy / Georgia’s
Georgia’s is known for its crispy-fried, herb-seasoned, cornmeal-coated chicken— arguably the county’s best— and soulful sides (that cornbread! those collard greens!). But on the sandwich list, that chicken is bested by the andouille po’boy: spicy sausage with a snappy casing served on a French roll with a flavorforward trio of dill pickles. garlicky mayo and Dijon mustard plus shredded lettuce and tomatoes. Heavenly cornbread comes out first. 714.906.1900
Keema Pav / Adya
Chef-owners Shachi Mehra and Sandeep Basrur showcase creative and classic street foods of India, marrying the country’s vibrant flavors and spices with the bounty of California farmers, growers and purveyors. A perfect example: spiced, minced-lamb, prettily topped with pink pickled onions on a grilled brioche roll, served with a cooling mint cilantro chutney and a lightly dressed salad. There's something special for vegetarians, too: the pav bhaji, a Bombay-style spiced veggie sloppy Joe. 714.533.2392
Keema pav, mincedlamb sandwich at Adya
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 19
HOLEY
MOLEY!
THE BEST HOLES ON THE COUNTY’S BEST GOLF COURSES. by BRIAN ROBIN
You figure these holes are great when you see them. You confirm they are great when you play them—though you may not always be able to say exactly why they’re great. Aesthetics and natural beauty are factors—but golf courses from Newport Beach to Nantucket feature beautiful holes that aren’t great holes. And courses from Anaheim to Atlantic City have interesting holes whose beauty don’t take your breath away. Great golf holes are eye candy and brain food—and they’re excellent for beginners or experts.
Holes No. 3: Pelican Hill Golf Club South in Newport Coast and, opposite, Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point
STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF COURSE Hole No. 10 / 369 Yards / Par 4
Short par 4s are often considered the best holes on a course. Maybe it’s because so many of them make a player think—never mind that many golfers don’t like to think. Here’s what they think about on this short but beautiful par 4 in Irvine: Do you want to hit with an iron or hybrid off the tee and deal with a longer approach shot and fairway bunkers? Or pull out the driver and avoid all of that? Using the driver brings into play the reservoir—and potentially a large bunker. The vista of the hills behind the hole is postcard-worthy; in fact, the views at every juncture and in every direction are the best on the course, which is owned by former Angels third baseman Doug DeCinces. ANAHEIM HILLS GOLF CLUB
COURTESY MONARCH BEACH. OPPOSITE: COURTESY PELICAN HILL.
Hole No. 15 / 357 Yards / Par 4
You’re on the tee, 100-plus feet above the fairway with a commanding view of the clubhouse and about half of the golf course, when you hear rustling in the bushes. It might be a rabbit. Or it might be a hawk that just found a rabbit—and flies away with its prey right over the hole you’re about to play. But back to that striking view. “This hole is all about the scenery,” says Cameron Carr, Anaheim Hills general manager. To best play this hole, and its dramatic elevation, the average golfer should take a 3-wood or hybrid, hit it straight and let gravity do the rest. “But if you hit it bad to the right or long to the left, you’re dead,” he says. Why? “The trees on the left and the lake on the right.” A small two-tiered green awaits. MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS Hole No. 3 / 315 Yards / Par 4
Yet another short par 4, this one in Dana
Point. Here’s one you can drive, you think. Here’s an easy birdie, you think. And here’s Monarch Beach general manager Eric Lohman to disabuse you of both notions. “You’d think it would play pretty easy,” Lohman says. “But you have to hit a precise layup 215 yards, then hit a 100-yard wedge shot downhill, and downwind to a green with slope and three pin placements about the size of a VW Beetle—so it’s hard to get it close. It’s the shortest hole out here, but it kicks my butt every time I play it.” Trying to drive the hole requires a blind tee shot over trees, and a hill, to a deceptively dicey green. The less adventurous, and more intelligent, play: a long iron or hybrid to the dogleg left, then a wedge to the green, which is framed by a bunker and mounds. Airmail all of that with your wedge and you’re literally on the beach—Salt Creek Beach. It’s a hole that requires thought, execution and no small amount of luck to walk away with a par 4.
PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB /SOUTH COURSE
PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB /NORTH COURSE
Hole No. 11 / 165 Yards / Par 3
Hole No. 13 / 131-108 Yards / Par 3
This is one of the best and most distinctive par 3s in SoCal—and not just because of the picture-perfect view of the Pacific Ocean that greets you at the tee box and never lets go. Fazio designed this hole with two greens, bisected by a massive bunker that, from the tee box, looks like the Sahara as it wraps around the back of both. The hole may be short, but your shot had better not be, lest you find that bunker. The views are long, but your shot had better not be, lest you find the back of that bunker. On either green. “It’s breathtaking, and it’s unique,” Deck says. “One day, you play one green, the next day, you play the other.” The wind on the Newport Coast adds to the challenge. You can play this hole 10 times and play it 10 different ways, Deck says. This one would be great even without the incredible views. TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB
Hole No. 17 / 558 Yards / Par 5
Aside from the stunning view of the Pacific Ocean from the tee box, the genius of this Tom Fazio-designed, dogleg-right hole in sumptuous Newport Coast is simple. It is a true risk-reward hole with options and choices on every shot, starting at the tee. “It makes you think,” agrees Glenn Deck, Pelican Hill director of instruction. “On a good tee shot, you have to make a decision. If you miss, that easy par or birdie all of a sudden turns into a big number. “It’s all about angles on this hole,” he adds. “Which one do you want to approach? How aggressive do you want to be?”
Here’s a hole that’s in your head the moment you step onto the grounds. You’d think that playing a gorgeous hole with an island green, a fountain and two waterfalls framing it all would put you in a good frame of mind. You’d be wrong. “You could have a great round going and be standing on the tee box, looking at all the water there, and thinking I have to have a par or, at the worst, a three-putt bogey, or my round’s destroyed,” says James Spadoni, Tustin Ranch general manager. There’s only one safe strategy: “Hit for the middle of the green,” Spadoni says. “Where you’re at in your round determines how you play this hole. It’s a make-or-break hole.” SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 21
COSTA MESA
/ SANTA ANA / IRVINE / TUSTIN
METRO CITIES Irvine, home of the historic Irvine Ranch, is O.C.’s financial hub. Santa Ana is the county seat. Tustin’s massive twin hangars are near the county’s geographic center. But Costa Mesa residents would say their city is the county’s heart.
COSTA MESA On one side of Bristol Street is South Coast Plaza, whose $2 billion in annual sales is highest among U.S. shopping destinations. On the other is O.C.’s center of culture—two concert halls and its largest repertory theater—and business high-rises. The late Henry Segerstrom and his family founded South Coast Plaza in 1967 on a lima bean field where as a youth he’d driven a tractor. Fifty years later, South Coast Plaza and its Bear Street wing, connected by the Bridge of Gardens, offer hundreds of stores, boutiques and restaurants. In fact, the state-designated tourist attraction boasts the nation’s highest concentration of elite retailers. The newest include Furla and Givenchy; among the most spectacular is Louis Vuitton. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and Terrace by Mix Mix. Former Bravo Top Chef runner-up Amar Santana opens The Hall: Global Eatery presently. Across 22 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
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, and the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, a 2,000-seat facility designed by Cesar Pelli. Founders Hall and Samueli Theater are more intimate. The Julianne and George Argyros Plaza is new. The campus is also home to South Coast
Repertory and 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 and Pirch. Foodies frequent Arc restaurant, a Saturday farmers market and, among dozens of vendors at OC Mix, Taco María —named by late Pulitzer Prizewinning food writer Jonathan Gold the Los Angeles Times’ 2018 restaurant of the year. 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,
SANTA ANA Arts-minded downtown Santa Ana offers the Artists Village, Santora Arts Complex and Grand Central Art Center. Mix Mix Kitchen Bar, El Mercado Modern Cuisine Playground, and new 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.
great find
LOVEBIRD TAKES FLIGHT Lovebird, super-cute new boutique at the District’s Union Market, is named for the female lead on a Turkish TV show, who, says the owner, “shows no fear [and] has a voice.” Fashion gotta-haves recently included a Lele dress, Alba bodysuit, Beso sweater and Koko romper. The boutique offers personal shopping and styling for that special night out. 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, shoplovebird.net
IRVINE SPECTRUM, DALE BERMAN. SEGERSTROM CENTER AND BOWERS MUSEUM, OPPOSITE, EDWIN SANTIAGO
among them Red & Blue Vintage. Opposite is the Camp, set amid wood and aluminum. Dining options include Old Vine Kitchen + Bar and Taco Asylum for distinctive tacos. Dine-and-play center The Triangle offers Keys on Main dueling pianos, bowling at Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl and top-tier Time Nightclub. OC Fair & Event Center hosts events year-round as well as the county fair and Pacific Amphitheatre concerts in summer.
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 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. Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. Opposite: Irvine Spectrum Center, left, and Costa Mesa’s Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Bowers Museum, founded about 80 years ago, mounts blockbuster exhibitions 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 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 entertainmentrelated, restaurants such as Cucina Enoteca for Cal-Ital and Habana for Cuban, and the nation’s most visited movie complex draw more visitors annually than Disneyland. UC Irvine’s Irvine Barclay Theatre presents music, dance and theatrical events. Nearby is the UCI Arboretum (Jamboree Road and Campus Drive, 949.824.5833). San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (949.261.7963) offers 10 miles of trails through coastal freshwater marshlands. The Irvine Museum houses Joan Irvine Smith’s collection of California
TUSTIN Forbes magazine has listed Tustin, which has preserved many of its 1870s buildings, in its Top 25 places “to live well.” The District at Tustin Legacy, at Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, is an “eatertainment” center with restaurants The Winery, J. Zhou Oriental Cuisine and Joon Shabu Shabu, a cineplex with seat warmers (and, in two theaters, seat rumblers), and bowling at Bowlmor. Union Market offers concepts including Hatch for tiki drinks and sliders and All Coco frozen confections. The nearby twin hangars that once housed airships are 1,000 feet long and 17 stories tall. The Market Place (714.730.4124), on Jamboree Road off Interstate 5, is older and even more sprawling. Though often called Tustin Market Place, part of it is actually in Irvine. Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen, designed by Thomas Schoos, is a highlight. The Marconi Automotive Museum (714.258.3001) displays 80 vehicles, notably Ferraris and historic open-wheel race cars.
Vacheron Constantin
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IT'S ABOUT TIME South Coast Plaza’s Level 2 boasts one of the world’s premier collections of watch boutiques. A. Lange & Söhne Jewel Court, 657.205.4555 Jaeger-LeCoultre Carousel Court 949.548.8428 Officine Panerai Carousel Court, 714.481.7188 Omega Carousel Court, 714.850.0558 Piaget Nordstrom Wing 714.361.2020 Rolex Between Jewel and Carousel courts, 714.241.8088 Swatch Sears Wing, 714.444.1180 Tourbillon Nordstrom Wing 714.800.1925 Tourneau/Patek Philippe Jewel Court, 714.850.0222 Vacheron Constantin Between Jewel and Carousel courts, 714.955.4057
WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 53. SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 23
NEWPORT BEACH
/ BALBOA / CORONA DEL MAR / HUNTINGTON BEACH
THE COAST Newport Beach offers O.C.’s most pleasant shopping destination, countless fine restaurants, gorgeous golf and coveted real estate. Along the coast are wide sandy beaches, piers, the world’s largest pleasure-boat harbor and Surf City USA.
24 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
The action never stops around Newport Pier, off Newport Boulevard on McFadden Square. Stag Bar (1908) now has a kitchen. The Dory Fishing Fleet (1889) leaves in the wee hours of the morn; visit the open-air fish market after sunrise, then have breakfast at the Dory Deli.
BALBOA To reach the Balboa Pier, continue southeast on Newport Boulevard (its name changes to Balboa Boulevard at 22nd Street), turn right on Palm Street and park in the metered lot. The Wedge, where the peninsula meets the harbor jetty, is one of the world’s most famous bodysurfing and bodyboarding spots. Currents and riptides can be dangerous; don’t go in unless you know what you’re doing. The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum has become ExplorOcean. On the harbor side of Balboa Peninsula is the Balboa Pavilion, a 1905 cupola-topped structure that is the depot for boat excursions: harbor tours, whale-watching trips and Santa Catalina cruises. As classic popsong lyrics attest, Catalina, known for its beaches, buffalo
Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Coast and, left, Balboa Island
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 Avenue is its only nonresidential street. Try a customdipped Balboa Bar.
CORONA DEL MAR Corona del Mar, whose streets are named for flowers, has expansive beaches and some of the country’s most expensive
great find
OLD FRENCH The duo behind acclaimed French bakery-cafe Moulin now offers vintage French furnishings a few doors down at Moulin Antiques. Proprietor Laurent Vrigraud and wife Sophie source much of its inventory—including collectible brands Maison Gatti and Tolix—from Paris’ famed Les Puces de Saint-Ouen and other French markets. 1000 Bristol St. N., Newport Beach, 949.333.3623, moulin.com
BALBOA, ASHOK SINHA. CRYSTAL COVE, BENJAMIN GINSBERG. GREAT FIND, MARC WEISBERG PHOTOGRAPHY
NEWPORT BEACH Newport Beach and its environs have been called California’s Riviera. Beaches and bougainvillea are a backdrop to yachts and dream homes, from cottages to some of the nation’s most expensive real estate. Its retail center is Newport Center, near Jamboree Road, Coast Highway and MacArthur Boulevard. Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s anchor elegant shopping destination Fashion Island, which recently passed the half-century mark. Gorjana jewelry, ViX Paula Hermanny swimwear and St. John boutiques, and the Lot luxury cinema and restaurant, are new. Top dining options include Sushi Roku and Red O. 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 restaurants such as The Winery and Pizzeria Mozza and luxury-car showrooms. Private charters and narrated harbor cruises, aboard vessels including luxury dining cruisers and romantic gondolas, depart from Mariner’s Mile as well as from Balboa Pavilion (see Balboa, below), and pass huge luxury abodes. All manner of watercraft rentals are possible, from canoes and kayaks to sailboats, motorboats and surrey-fringed electric boats. The “beach” in Newport Beach includes two piers, Balboa and Newport, great sandy expanses and one of the cleanest and most colorful bike paths and boardwalks anywhere. Harborside Lido Marina Village is a pedestrian shopping destination with tenants including upscale and on-the-moment boutiques such as Ellyse Walker, Alchemy Works gallery, Paper Sugar stationery and Nobu and Lido Bottle Works restaurants; the Circle Hook and Malibu Farm eateries are new.
ViX Paula Hermanny
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SWIMMINGLY Newport Beach offers a bounty of distinctive beachwear boutiques.
real estate. Upscale destinations at Corona del Mar Plaza, near Fashion Island, include Diane’s for swimwear and Tommy Bahama as well as new VICI and gourmet pantry Baker & Olive. On East Coast Highway south of MacArthur Boulevard, is Sherman Library & Gardens, offering 2,000 plant species on two acres. Consider a repast at Café Jardin or the Tea Garden Crêperie. Coast Highway is lined with design showrooms, rug dealers and boutiques. You’ll find bodysurfing, volleyball, fire pits, all amenities and Tackle Box gourmet “grub shack” at Corona del Mar State Beach. Picturesque Little Corona Beach, setting for countless family photos, is just south. South of Corona del Mar is Newport Coast. Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers boutiques such as Atelier 7918 and restaurants Bluefin for sushi, Mastro’s Ocean Club for seafood and French destination Marché Moderne.
Nearby are Crystal Cove State Park, with its miles of sandy coves and miles of trails, and gorgeous Pelican Hill Golf Club.
HUNTINGTON BEACH Surf City USA has become more sophisticated. Though Huntington Beach retains some of its sand-in-the-cracks identity, shops, fine-dining options and luxury hotels have made for a dramatic transformation. Main Street is a promenade with lots of surfwear and beachwear shops, a Surfing Walk of Fame and Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Pacific City offers acres of retail and dining, including West of Camden boutique and LSXO and Bluegold restaurants. Hip lounges include The Bungalow and, atop Tanner’s, Treehouse Lounge. Next to Huntington Beach Pier Plaza 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) boats 200 species of migratory birds in a salt-marsh setting with a 1.5-mile loop trail. Inland, at Talbert Avenue and Goldenwest Street, is 350acre Huntington Central Park; the park encompasses Shipley Nature Center (714.842.4772), an equestrian center, two “lakes” and the Central Library (714.842.4481). 5 Points Plaza tenants include Loft, CloudMover Day Spa and Vans; there’s a dog-friendly barking lot. Doughnuts at new Duck Donuts are made to order. Draws at Bella Terra shopping destination include outdoor-sports 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.
Beach Bunny Swimwear 2210 Newport Blvd. Suite 104 949.873.5711 beachbunnyswimwear.com Diane’s Beachwear Corona del Mar Plaza 920 Avocado Ave. 949.759.6880 dianesbeachwear.com San Lorenzo Bikinis Fashion Island 401 Newport Center Drive 949.759.1504 sanlorenzobikinis.com Seafolly Fashion Island 1135 Newport Center Drive 949.706.7690, seafolly.com Swimspot Fashion Island 259 Newport Center Drive 949.706.2996, swimspot.com ViX Paula Hermanny Fashion Island 259 Newport Center Drive 949.600.4490 vixpaulahermanny.com
WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 53. SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 25
LAGUNA BEACH
/ DANA POINT / SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO / SAN CLEMENTE
SOUTH COAST
LAGUNA BEACH Admire the sculptures at Laguna College of Art + Design as you enter the county’s original art colony along Laguna Canyon Road. In fact, it is easy to spend a day along the thoroughfare before ever entering the city proper, especially during the three summer art festivals— Festival of Arts, Laguna 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. Laguna Canyon Road becomes Broadway, then comes to a T at Coast Highway. Turn either way and you’ll find galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Up the hill to the right, Laguna Art Museum presents modern and contemporary art, mostly by California painters, explores pop culture and displays art from Laguna’s past, particularly seascapes. Steps away are coastal vistas at Heisler 26 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
Park and a stretch of Coast Highway called North Gallery Row, where you’ll find Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry (352 N. Coast Hwy., 949.715.0953) and tikichic Royal Hawaiian restaurant. 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. 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.
great find
LAGUNA ROOTS The owner of new 7 Roots was born and raised in Laguna Beach, one of seven children whose father owned and designed for his own store, Tops, in Laguna for 30 years. She offers “eco-conscious clothing and crafts,” fashions for men and women that continue her father’s design legacy and jewelry such as distinctive knife earrings. 1920 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.3366, shop7roots.com
MISSION, EDWIN SANTIAGO. LAGUNA GALLERY AND BEACH, ASHOK SINHA. INSIDER TIPS, KENDAL RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY. GREAT FIND, COURTESY 7 ROOTS
Four of the county’s most historic cities are nestled into its southern corner: Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente along Coast Highway, and nearby San Juan Capistrano. All offer shopping, dining and natural beauty.
Main Beach in Laguna Beach. Opposite: Mission San Juan Capistrano and, in Laguna Beach, Joanne Artman Gallery
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO There’s no beach in this burg, but there’s plenty of history, style and charm. Mission San Juan Capistrano, the birthplace of Orange County, was founded by Father Junípero Serra in 1776, the same year America was born. It took nine years to build its Great Stone Church, completed in 1806; it took one minute for an earthquake to destroy it six years later, killing 40 people. The priests left the ruins, a dramatic benchmark of the struggle to build California. The dome atop the nearby rail station was made with stones from the ruins. Priests still celebrate Mass in the Serra Chapel; the original adobe walls shelter a magnificent Baroque altarpiece decorated with 52 carved goldleaf angels. The 10-acre site is filled with walkways, gardens, fountains and exhibits. Mission
events include the renowned Swallows Day Parade in March. Just across the train tracks is Los Rios Historic District. A stroll along Los Rios Street is a most pleasant experience; 31 homes, the earliest dating to 1794, look as they did in centuries past. Near the train station is the O’Neill Museum (31831 Los Rios St., 949.493.8444), home to the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. The train goes right by Ramos House Café, which offers an unforgettable breakfast in an 1881 board-and-batten house. Camino Capistrano is lined with shops and restaurants. One of South County’s most popular taverns is the colorful Swallow’s Inn (31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188). For a different kind of nightlife, consider the nearby Camino Real Playhouse (31776 El Camino Real, 949.489.8082). San Juan Capistrano Regional Library (31495
El Camino Real, 949.493.1752) is a postmodern masterpiece by architect Michael Graves. San Juan Capistrano is the county’s equestrian center; luxurious residences, many with their own stables, surround the city. Eight miles to the east is Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park (33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210).
SAN CLEMENTE La Casa Pacifica, site of President Richard Nixon’s Western White House, has long since been broken up into million-dollar homes by a private developer. But you can still see Casa Romantica (415 Avenida Granada, 949.498.2139), once the residence of the city’s founder, oil entrepreneur Ole Hanson. On a hillside overlooking San Clemente Pier, it’s the site of the city’s Cultural Center and Gardens, offering galleries and a popular veranda. From the pier, the sun sets across the blue water between Catalina Island and the Dana Point bluffs—look past the constant stream of surfers. Metrolink and Amtrak trains run alongside the beach and stop at the pier. Find shopping and dining on El Camino Real and Avenida del Mar, lined with antique stores and galleries, and at The Outlets at San Clemente, a shopping destination that marries luxury and discount. Tenants include MadaLuxe Vault, Guess, Nike and Hurley. Talega Golf Club, above the city, was designed with help from Masters champion Fred Couples (949.369.6226). Blue Eyed Girl boutique and Sundried Tomato bistro are among draws at Talega Village Center.
Jewelry by Gorjana
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WEAR O.C. Laguna Beach boutiques never go out of style. Here are some favorites. Anastasia Boutique 460 Ocean Ave. 949.497.1212 anastasiaboutique.com Aviator Nation 1143 S. Coast Hwy. 949.715.7887 aviatornation.com Blue Eyed Girl 1200 S. Coast Hwy. Suite 106, 949.715.4646 shopblueeyedgirl.com Fetneh Blake 427 N. Coast Hwy. 949.494.3787 fetnehblake.com Gorjana 190 Beach St. 949.715.8166 gorjana.com Just Looking Boutique 384 Forest Ave. 949.494.8208 justlookingboutique.net Laguna Supply 210 Beach St. 949.497.8850 lagunasupply.com
WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 53. FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 63.
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 27
ANAHEIM
/ BUENA PARK / ORANGE / FULLERTON
NORTH COUNTY
ANAHEIM 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.; Star Wars now brings epic encounters to Tomorrowland. A mountain range of thrill rides includes Space Mountain, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain. 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' Around the World never get old. There’s no admission at adjacent Downtown Disney, a lively promenade lined with shops, entertainment venues 28 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
such as Splitsville Luxury Lanes and dining destinations such as Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar. Eateries range from fast to fancy; none outclasses the Grand Californian Hotel’s Napa Rose. Ballast Point Brewery is new. “Eatertainment” destination Anaheim GardenWalk offers more than a dozen eateries including Roy’s Restaurant and Grasslands; 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 the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey team and L.A. Kiss football team and host to touring acts such as Justin Timberlake and Imagine Dragons. American Sports Centers Anaheim, the world’s largest indoor court facility, features 34 volleyball courts that convert into 25 basketball courts. Nearby is the 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, and it’s a smash. Our favorites include Adya for Cal-Indian, Georgia’s for Southern and Hammer Workshop & Bar 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, training facility for the Anaheim Ducks, is open for public skating.
BUENA PARK Roller coaster, Old West and boysenberry jam enthusiasts flock to Knott’s Berry Farm, a theme park with roots dating back to 1934, when Walter and Cordelia Knott opened a roadside stand selling berries and a diner dishing fried chicken. Diners still feast on drumsticks and berry pie at Mrs. Knott’s
Chicken Dinner; shoppers stroll California Marketplace, which has a nearby Independence Hall replica (1966). Inside the park is a daunting collection of roller coasters including Xcelerator, which rockets to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds, and dive coaster HangTime. GhostRider is one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden coasters. Less hair-raising are the kiddie rides at Camp Snoopy. Ghost Town recently marked its 75th anniversary. Explore bygone eras without leaving Beach Boulevard. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament revisits an 11thcentury castle. Audiences cheer jousting knights and pageantry
great find
CHOICE BOUTIQUE Beach babe one day, classic boho the next? Stitch and Feather, a boutique and burgeoning lifestyle brand in Orange County, offers an array of distinctive clothing—from intimates to sweaters and festival wear—plus jewelry, scarves, bags and hats, home goods for kitchen and garden and even gift cards. 110 E. Wilshire Ave., Fullerton, 657.217.5459, stitchandfeather.com
PACKING HOUSE, DALE BERMAN. DISNEYLAND, EDWIN SANTIAGO. GREAT FIND COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT
Long before orange groves and Walt Disney shaped the Anaheim landscape, the region was California’s first wine country, thanks to German immigrants. Now its world-class attractions make it the gateway to endless fun and joyful memories.
n der t In Anaheim: Astro Orbiter at Disneyland and, opposite, Anaheim Packing House food hall
starring Pure Spanish stallions while serfs and wenches serve a four-course feast. A banquet at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure fortifies guests for skirmishes aboard a replicated 18thcentury galleon in an indoor lagoon. Teatro Martini dinner cabaret for adults is at the same location.
ORANGE Old Towne Orange often appears in movies and commercials, thanks to its preserved pre-1940 homes and buildings. Anchored by a picturesque traffic circle— oval, actually—at Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street, the district is on the National Register of Historic Places. It includes antique shops and restaurants such as Haven Gastropub and Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen. The Orange Chamber of Commerce (439 E. Chapman Ave.) offers a map of historic sights. Chapman University is one of the state’s oldest private universities. Its Musco Center for the
Arts and nearby Hilbert Museum of California Art opened in 2016. To the east are Irvine Park’s Orange County Zoo and narrow-gauge train. Big kids go for The Outlets at Orange, where draws include high-end discount retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th and new Nordstrom Rack. Families head for Lucky Strike Lanes and Vans Skatepark. Nearby Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove—formerly known as Crystal Cathedral—is a must-tour for architecture buffs.
FULLERTON Most visitors to Fullerton, home of California State University, Fullerton, gravitate to the historic core along Harbor Boulevard, with its endless boutiques and watering holes. Near Commonwealth Avenue, a short stroll from the historic train station, are night spots and restaurants such as Matador Cantina and 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. East in Yorba Linda is the birthplace of Richard M. Nixon. The tiny home and impressive rose garden are on the grounds of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Among fascinating exhibits are a replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office and one that focuses on his historic trip to China. Birch Street Promenade in Brea offers shops, restaurants such as Brunos Italian Kitchen and stand-up comedy. Brea Mall is huge; its dining options include HaiDiLao Fusion Shabu.
HOPPY DAYS There’s always something brewing in Anaheim! Here are the city’s newest breweries. Asylum Brewing 2970 E. La Palma Ave. Suite D, 949.396.2099 asylumbrewingcompany.com Ballast Point 1540 S. Disneyland Drive 714.687.9813 ballastpoint.com Bruery Terreux 1174 N. Grove St. 714.996.6258 brueryterreux.com Golden Road Brewing 2210 E. Orangewood Ave. 714.912.4015 goldenroad.la Hoparazzi Brewing Co. 2910 La Palma Ave. 714.204.0655 Towne Park Brew 1566 W. Lincoln Ave. 714.844.2492 towneparkbrew.com Unsung Brewing Co. 500 S. Anaheim Blvd. 714.406.3098 unsungbrewing.com
WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 53. FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE LISTINGS. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGE 63.
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 29
®
THE GUIDE SPRING 2019
Carving Out a Masterpiece
EVGENY MATVEEV
Known for his flamboyantly narrative ballets, Russian choreographer Boris Eifman creates works of “extreme theatricality and spectacular effect,” says The New Yorker. “The company’s gorgeous, hyper-flexible dancers are up to the challenge.” Eifman explores the extremes of human emotion. In The Pygmalion Effect, he takes inspiration from the mythological tale of a sculptor who becomes infatuated with his own carving of a beautiful young woman. In his version, a ballroom dancer “sculpts” his subject into a brilliant dancer; he sets the transformation to music by Johann Strauss Jr. The Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg presents the U.S. premiere of the work May 24-26 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. p. 46
/ DINING AMERICAN A RESTAURANT 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., Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 $$$ Map N13 THE AMERICAN DREAM Indoor-outdoor venue looks across to the beach. Meat-centric burgers, winning mac ’n’ cheese, more than 60 distinctive beers on tap. L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.1330 $$ Map N9 ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Distinctive fare—e.g., crab cones, venison shank—and excellent cocktails amid striking decor; garden terrace with fire “tornadoes.” L, D (M-Sa), Br (Sa). 2607 Main St., Irvine, 949.387.8887 $$ Map D4
Modern Taquería
New Descanso in Costa Mesa offers a full-service restaurant, a loftier Benihana-like multicourse plancha experience, and paleta cocktails featuring Mexico’s famed frozen pop bars. Chef Sergio Ortega, who hails from the Mexican state of Michoacan, presents central Mexican street-inspired cuisine. Small plates range from the lighter yellowtail aguachile and a Mexican take on poke with local bigeye tuna to the richer choriqueso verde and tamales dorados; other options include traditional fideo soup and sirloin-steak alambres. A number of plancha entrées incorporate xoconostle, or cactus pear, notably the pescado a la talla and, above, the langosta. Dessert? Look no further than the chocolate paleta cocktail, a way-too-delicious Abuelita martini with the paleta nestled inside. p. 38
GUIDELINES Restaurants are cross referenced by city on page 42. Map locators at end of each listing (Map A3;Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 53-55. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers. American ..................... 32 Brewpubs/Gastropubs 34 California ..................... 34 Chinese ........................ 34 Continental .................. 35 Eclectic ........................ 35 Food Halls ................... 40 French .......................... 35 International ................ 36 Italian ........................... 36
Japanese ..................... 36 Mediterranean............. 37 Mexican/Latin .............. 37 Quick Bites .................. 40 Seafood ........................ 38 Steak ............................ 38 Thai .............................. 39 Vegan ........................... 39 Vietnamese .................. 39
ARC Superb “flame, flavor, finesse” cuisine by Noah von Blöm—named best chef at O.C.’s Golden Foodies—amid rustic-apothecary decor. Best bacon; legendary burger; Butcher’s Love cap of the rib-eye for four; and top-tier cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Collection, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.500.5561 $$ Map J12
THE CRACK SHACK Bravo Top Chef All-Stars winner Richard Blais offers chicken- and egg-centric dishes in a striking dual-level space with whimsical chicken-themed decor and cornhole court. L, D (daily). 196 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.383.5040 $$ Map K12
BACK BAY BISTRO Snazzy spot overlooks Back Bay at the Dunes; retractable roof. Cancun-style shrimp cocktail, Kobe beef sliders, New York steak au poivre. L (Tu-Sa), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). Newport Dunes, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949.729.1144 $$ Map M14
THE CUT Cut-above creative burgers such as Grand Cut with braised pork, bacon jam, havarti and Comté fondue. Plus prosciutto-chorizo croquettes, corn-cookie ice cream sandwich. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 3831 Alton Parkway, Suite C, Irvine, 949.333.3434 $$ Map D4
BAD TO THE BONE “Real-pit BBQ” brisket, tri-tip and pulled pork, blackened catfish and mesquite-fired steaks amid cowboy ambiance. L, D (daily). 31738 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.0227 $$ Map I17
DRIFTWOOD KITCHEN & BAR Overlooks the sand. Santa Barbara uni with hamachi; foie-gras-stuffed Mary’s Chicken and morels. Cozy-edgy Stateroom Bar. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pacific Edge Hotel, 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.715.7700 $$ Map I15
BAYSIDE Stylish spot for New American fare, ideal for exec lunches, romantic dinners, lazy brunches. Live jazz. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.1222 $$$ Map M14 THE BEACHCOMBER Historic cottage on the sand at Crystal Cove State Park. Prime flat iron steak with wildmushroom-and-truffle mac; Gimme s’mores! Outdoor Bootlegger Bar. Los Trancos lot shuttle. B, L, D (daily). 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, 949.376.6900 $$ Map E4 BISTANGO Beautifully presented contemporary cuisine at business magnet; extensive wine list, changing contemporary art exhibits and jazz nightly. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.752.5222 $$ Map K14 BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA Original spot/first love of Bravo Top Chef finalist Amar Santana. (Spanishthemed Vaca in Costa Mesa is the other.) Superb “cuisine of the Americas” and cocktails. D (nightly). 328 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.8234$$$ Map H15 THE CELLAR Cheese shop, wine bar and excellent restaurant with live music and dog-friendly patio. B, L, D (T-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 158 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663 $$ Map south of F6 CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery offers rotisserie chicken, baby-back ribs, six-layer Motherlode Cake and its own craft beer. Happy hour daily. L, D (daily); Br (Su). Seven locations include South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.434.8479; 190 S. State College Blvd., Brea, 714.529.9061; 7971 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.523.3227 $$ Map J13, A3, G8 THE COUNTRY CLUB Decor evokes a Gatsby-esque sports club. Highlights: popcorn-infused Shinnecock cocktail; hamachi tacos on jicama shells; caramelized white-chocolate bread pudding. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 330 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.281.2582 $$ Map K12
EAT CHOW “Chowified” updates of Southern, French, Mexican and Cuban favorites. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 1802 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.650.2469; 211 62nd St., Newport Beach, 949.423.7080; 313 N. Bush St., Santa Ana, 657.266.0500 $$ Map K12, N12, C4 FARMHOUSE Rich Mead’s field-to-fork-inspired cafe, a centerpiece of Roger’s Gardens, is a hit, especially with the lunching ladies. Superb cocktail team. L, D (daily). 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar, 949.640.1415 $$$ Map L16 THE FILLING STATION CAFE Distinctive all-day breakfast fare and coffeehouse classics at family-friendly spot housed in a 1920s-era gas station. B, L, D (daily). 201 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.289.9714 $$ Map C4 GREAT MAPLE Comfort classics transformed: charred cauliflower hummus; buttermilk fried chicken and maple bacon doughnuts; lobster popover Benedict. Br, L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 1133 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.8282 $$$ Map L15 HARLEY New. Owner-chef Greg Daniels, ex Haven in Orange, takes over 370 Common space, now midcentury modern and cozy, and serves ingeniously tweaked finedining staples. D (nightly). 370 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.1530 $$$ Map H15 HENDRIX Chef Rainer Schwarz offers New American: cornbread with zucchini, seafood, fire-roasted steaks and rotisserie. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 32431 Golden Lantern St., Laguna Niguel, 949.248.1912 $$ Map I16 HOPDODDY One of “the best burgers in America,” said Food & Wine; Terlingua chili cheeseburger. L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.640.2337; Tustin Marketplace, 3030 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.505.2337 $$ Map L15, C5
W Captain Jack’s in Sunset Beach serves 1,500 pounds of crab a week, six large legs to an order, split for easy access to the sweet meat. 562.592.2514 32 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
ANNE WATSON
THE GUIDE
DINING HOUSE OF BLUES Restaurant and bar at spectacular concert venue offers Southern fare: voodoo shrimp, Nashville hot fried chicken salad, smokehouse St. Louis ribs. Sunday Gospel Brunch. L, D (daily). 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.778.2583 $$ Map I10 JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR Chef Daniel Hyatt uses locally sourced ingredients to elevate modern American dishes; top-notch cocktails; brunch (and brunch cocktails) are new. L, D (daily). 1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach, 949.752.5854 $$$ Map K13 LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ Beignets, burgers, bánh-mì buns and bouillabaisse in lighthouse-shaped harbor-view restaurant. Newly expanded cocktail list. B, L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Marina Park, 1600 W. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.933.1001 $$ Map N14 LUCILLE’S SMOKEHOUSE BAR-B-QUE Expansive menu offers St. Louis spare ribs, Texas-style brisket, Alabama chicken. Five locations include the District, 2550 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.259.1227; 4050 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.634.1227; MainPlace, 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.7427; $$ Map J14, J11, G13 MRS. KNOTT’S CHICKEN DINNER RESTAURANT Famed spot just outside the theme park has used the same fried chicken recipe since 1934; end with boysenberry pie. L, D (daily); B (Sa-Su). Knott’s Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5055 $$ Map G8 OCEAN AT MAIN New. Chef Craig Strong departs Studio to open his own spot, serving a more personal coastal cuisine in a 1940s-era bank building. Kusshi oysters; lobster fettucine; roasted beef tenderloin. L, D (daily). 222 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.3870 $$ Map H15 OLD VINE KITCHEN + BAR Old Vine Cafe moves next door, adds a bar. It’s a pleasure any time of day, be it for its caramel apple French toast, beef-tongue panino or fourcourse tasting menus. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411 $$ Map J13 PARK AVE Creative renditions of classic fare use house-made/homegrown specialties. Most produce grown on premises; visit the garden! Googie architecture, midcentury retro decor. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 PLAYGROUND Owner/chef Jason Quinn, whose Lime Truck won Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race, offers superior small plates; cauliflower nachos; Uncle Lou’s fried chicken; wagyu tri-tip. D (Tu-Sa). 220 E. 4th St., Santa Ana, 714.560.4444 $$ Map H13 RALPH BRENNAN’S JAZZ KITCHEN Creole cuisine and New Orleans jazz. Pasta jambalaya, Gumbo Ya-Ya, bananas Foster. Beignets at Jazz Kitchen Express; romantic dining upstairs; casual meals downstairs. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). Downtown Disney, 1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.776.5200 $$ Map I10 RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ One of the county’s best restaurants serves O.C.’s best breakfast on the covered patio of an 1881 house next to the train tracks in historic district. B, L (Th-Tu); Br (Sa-Su). 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342 $$ Map I17 THE RANCH Sophisticated restaurant and super-fun saloon. Chef Michael Rossi offers fried Petaluma quail, glorious bone-in cowboy rib-eye; try brother David’s pecan pie. Most produce from its own farm. D (nightly). 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200 $$$ Map I11 ROCKWELL’S BAKERY, CAFE & BAR New. Bakery counter, full-service meals and full bar. B, L, D (daily). Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, 949.799.2020 $$ Map south of F6 RUBY’S DINER Vintage-inspired family-friendly spots serve burgers and shakes; three of 17 locations are on piers. B, L, D (daily). Balboa Pier, 949.675.RUBY; Huntington Beach Pier, 714.969.RUBY $ Map N15 and N9
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 33
DINING
MRK PUBLIC Three chefs offer elevated pub fare, notably Tuscan Toast, Vietnamese Sticky Wings and fried chicken sandwich, and craft beers (all $5). L, D (Tu-Su). 1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.441.7621 $$ Map south of F6
Pistachio cheesecake at Five Crowns
SEASONS 52 Lower calorie. Lots of flavor. Fab bar, stylish decor, eclectic seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts, superior wine list. Brick-oven brioche “French toast” at brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5252 $$ Map J13 SOCIAL Hip spot offers intriguing cuisine and superb cocktails. Wood-fired oysters; Akaushi-beef Drive Thru Burger; wagyu tri-tip. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, 949.642.2425 $$ Map K12 320 MAIN Chef Jaime Carrano serves elevated fare such as citrus-cured salmon bite, roasted bone marrow with braised oxtail marmalade; and cutting-edge cocktails. Br (Sa-Su), D (Tu-Su). 320 Main St., Seal Beach, 562.799.6246 $$ Map C1 TOAST KITCHEN + BAKERY New. Think of it as serving brunch and dunch. Highlights include Thai chile chilaquiles, Nashville hot chicken and malasadas, and a popular breakfast burrito. B, L (Tu-Su); D (Tu-Sa). 1767 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.873.5057 $$ Map B4 UMAMI BURGER Gourmet burgers for the hipster masses. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 31 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.396.1830; 338 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.991.8626; The Camp, 2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.957.8626 $ Map G15, I10, J13 WATERTABLE Restaurant/gastro bar in “living rooms,” on ocean-view patio. Shareable Bar Jars; decadent burger; honey-lavender Berkshire pork. B, D (daily); L (M-F). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.1234 $$ Map N9 WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN & CAFE California’s original soda fountain (1899). Hip once again, it retains its retro vibe; some shakes come with booze. B, L, D (daily). 116 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.363.3773 $$ Map J11 WRECKLESS Chef Cody Storts creates menus with reckless abandon. Try Tar-Tar (Piedmontese eye of round, chile de arbol sauce, blackberries) and duck breast “coriander and gumbo.” D (nightly); Br (Su). 136 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 714.519.3179 $$ Map B3
BREWPUBS AND GASTROPUBS A&O KITCHEN + BAR Waterfront Anchors & Oceans bar with upmarket gastropub fare. Remarkable new California Distilled cocktail program is entirely state-sourced. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.603.4285 $$ Map M14 HAVEN GASTROPUB Adventurous fare and palateprovoking handcrafted beers on tap. Superlative burgers—including new James Beard challenge breakfast burger—Jidori chicken-liver toast, whole roasted suckling pig. Br (Su); L, D (daily). 190 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.221.0680 $$ Map C4
34 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
PICKLED MONK New. Abbey-meets-brick-and-chandelier decor, Cal-global comfort dishes (e.g., Brussels sprouts with bacon-gochujang jam and Point Reyes blue cheese) and self-pour craft-beer-and-wine wall with 30 taps. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 101 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, 714.793.9100 $$ Map B3 ROYAL HEN Chef Tim Goodell is back with a bustling gastropub on Balboa Island. Chicken pot pie; lamb rump with charred plums. D (Tu-Su), Br (Su). 3311 Marine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.873.5603 $$ Map M15 SIDEDOOR 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—make every visit memorable. D (nightly). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.717.4322 $$ Map M16
CALIFORNIA CUISINE BLUEGOLD Sleek California coastal: raw bar, charcuterie, seafood steam kettles, creative pizzas, plates du jour. (See Vietnamese for restaurant-within-a-restaurant LSXO.) B, L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0038 $$ Map N9 HARVEST Dining room has golf and dramatic canyon views. Half Mary’s Chicken, popcorn panna cotta dessert. B, L, D (daily). The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 $$ Map I16 HEIRLOOM FARMHOUSE KITCHEN Starters such as the Ancient Breads trio star along with cocktails such as the elegant Improve Your Age. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). Marriott Irvine Spectrum, 7905 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.759.0200 $$ Map D5 K’YA BISTRO BAR Fifty small plates in lively spot inside historic La Casa del Camino Hotel; sharing is encouraged. D (nightly). La Casa del Camino, 1289 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.376.9718 $$ Map I16 LIDO BOTTLE WORKS Provocative menu includes tuna tartare with chili pop rocks; cauliflower wreath with mushrooms and raisins; Prime hanger steak frites; chorizo hash at brunch. Cool vintage touches. New chef. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Lido Marina Village, 3408 Via Oporto, Suite 103, Newport Beach, 949.529.2784 $$ Map N13 MALIBU FARM New. Farm-to-table restaurant in Malibu, Miami and Lanai opens harbor-side. Stoplight Tacos trio (green, yellow, red), vegetable paella, skirt steak. B, L (M-F); D (daily). Lido Marina Village, 3416-3420 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, 949.791.2096 $$ Map N13 MAYOR’S TABLE Dining room, raw bar, chef’s counter serving seafood and creative “vegetable-forward cuisine” at beachy-chic hotel. B, L (M-F); D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Lido House, 3300 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.524.8500 $$$ Map N13 NAPA ROSE Wine country at Disneyland Resort is a celebration of beauty in the bottle and the bounty of nature; chef Andrew Sutton offers sophisticated seasonal fare. D (nightly). Grand Californian Hotel, 1313 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.635.2300 $$$ Map I10 OAK GRILL New chef Brittany Valles (ex Michael Voltaggio’s Ink.well) elevates the menu with distinctive takes on already creative fare. Shares patio with
Aqua Lounge. B, L, D (daily). Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.760.4920 $$$$ Map L15 OAK LAGUNA BEACH Stylish dining room and wraparound balcony overlook Coast Highway. Meatball starter, local albacore stack, frozen Nutella cappuccino, Oasis mai tai. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1100 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.940.3010 $$ Map H15 OLEA Russ Bendel (Vine, Ironwood) and chef-partner Jared Cook open third wine-country concept, this one with a Euro twist. Crispy Meyer lemon duck wings; schnitzel. D (nightly). 2001 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.275.5394 $$$ Map M13 PACIFIC HIDEAWAY Chef J.T. Walker’s share plates have Southeast Asia or Latin American touches. Lao sausage wraps, whole crispy snapper, Kite Surfer cocktail. Br, D (daily). Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.965.4448 $$ Map N9 PROVENANCE Cathy Pavlos’ wine-country- and farmhouse-themed spot has impressive patio garden. Pan-roasted cauliflower kung pao, s’more in a jar dessert. Fab brunch. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2531 Eastbluff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0477 $$ Map L14 SEALEGS WINE BAR Seasonal share plates (Pig and Fig flatbread, bananas Foster French toast) amid Hamptons-style decor. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, 714.536.5700 $$ Map M9 SILVER TRUMPET “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. All meals daily. 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 $$$ Map J13 SPLASHES RESTAURANT AND BAR Meals steps from the sand make gorgeous memories. Hamachi crudo, lobster bisque, rack of lamb. B, D (daily); L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). Surf & Sand Resort, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.4477, ext. 550 $$$ Map H15 STUDIO Airy bluff-top Arts and Crafts-style bungalow with gorgeous azure and endless Pacific view oozes an offhand luxury befitting its premium resort setting. Benjamin Martinek is new chef de cuisine. D (Tu-Su). Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6420 $$$$ Map I16 TANGATA Lunch spot off Bowers Museum courtyard offers Pacific Rim-inflected cuisine. Spam taco, Korean marinated skirt steak, banana spring roll. L (Tu-Su). 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.550.0906 $$ Map G13 TANNER’S Pool and ocean views, open-fire fare and toptier cocktails at super-stylish Treehouse rooftop lounge. B, L, D (daily). Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130 $$ Map N9 THE WINERY Seafood, wild game, USDA Prime steaks; cigar patios, extensive wine cellars. Tustin: L (M-F), D (nightly). Newport: D (nightly), Br (Su). The District, 2647 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.7600; 3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.999.6622 $$$ Map D4, N13
CHINESE DIN TAI FUNG Taiwanese icon known for xiao long bao (Shanghai-style dumplings; watch them being meticulously folded). The New York Times included the original in its world’s top 10. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.549.3388 $$ Map J13 J. ZHOU ORIENTAL CUISINE Flamboyant Cantonese destination specializes in dim sum and special-occasion fare such as lobster served 16 ways and several varieties of abalone. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2601 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.8833 $$$ Map D4
AARON STRELECKI
JT SCHMID’S RESTAURANT AND BREWERY Beers brewed on-site and brewpub cuisine: wood-fired pizzas, Prime steaks, burgers, jambalaya and sashimi. L, D (daily). 2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.634.9200; 2415 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.0333 $$ Map I11, D4
DINING
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COMFORT LIKE CJ LUNCH • DINNER • HAPPY HOUR
MEIZHOU DONGPO Upscale Sichuan eatery known for bold and fiery cuisine. Showstoppers include Meizhou duck, sweet-and-sour tilapia and squid-ink shumai; popular dim-sum brunch. L, D (daily). Culver Plaza, 15363 Culver Drive, Irvine, 949.433.5686 $$$ Map J14 TWENTY EIGHT Modern Chinese in stylish digs. Star of chef Jay Lacuesta’s show is Kurobuta “char siu” pork shoulder. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.852.2828 $$ Map K14
CONTINENTAL FIVE CROWNS Lawry’s institution in English inn replica known for prime rib. New chef, new bar and new seasonal menu. Acclaimed SideDoor Gastropub adjacent. D (nightly). 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331 $$$ Map M16 ORANGE HILL Hilltop hideaway with endless city-light views and beautiful O Bar; prime rib and lobster are specialties. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6410 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.997.2910 $$ Map C5 SUMMIT HOUSE Fine Cal-Continental at hilltop faux English manor with blazing stone fireplace. The prime rib was named best entree at this year’s Golden Foodie Awards. L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 2000 E. Bastanchury Road, Fullerton, 714.671.4111 $$ Map A3 21 OCEANFRONT Romantic restaurant with sunset views, cozy bars, servers in black tie. Abalone, crab legs, steaks and osso buco. New chef. Live entertainment in the lounge. D (nightly). 2100 W. Oceanfront (Newport Pier), Newport Beach, 949.673.2100 $$$ Map N13
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EATS KITCHEN & BAR Regional specialties, winning happy hour, circular bar centerpiece. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780 $$ Map D4 JOURNEYMAN’S FOOD + DRINK Postmodern eyeand tastebud-popping creations thoughtfully conceived, meticulously executed. Prix fixe: Choose an options from each of four courses. D (Tu-Sa). Hotel Fullerton, 1500 S. Raymond Ave., Fullerton, 714.635.9025 $$ Map G10 MIX Hilton Anaheim executive chef Frederic Castan oversees the globally influenced menu. Impressive chef’s table in the kitchen. B, L, D (daily). 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, 714.740.4412 $$ Map I10 SAPPHIRE LAGUNA Globally inspired dishes at stylish spot with popular patio, excellent cocktails, gourmet pantry for takeout. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1200 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9888 $$$ Map I15 TRU GRITS Executive chef Theresa Lin Cheng offers modern American cuisine with Asian influences at Four Points by Sheraton Anaheim. B, L, D (daily). 1221 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.758.0900 $$ Map J11
FRENCH SUSHI & SEAFOOD BUFFET
PREMIUM
QUALITY
(949) 724-1204 1818 Main St. Irvine, CA 92614 Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily 11:30am-2pm, 5:30pm-9pm
MARCHÉ MODERNE Chef Florent Marneau and pastry chef wife Amelia elevate the bistro experience to gorgeous heights. Caviars, butter tasting, lamb couscous. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7862 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 714.434.7900 $$$ Map M17 MOULIN Combination bistro-epicerie-cafes: sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, wine and beer. Laguna: B, L, D (daily). Newport: B, L (daily); D (M-Sa). 1000 Bristol St. N., Newport Beach, 949.474.0920; 248 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6990 $$ Map K13 and H15 PASCAL Venerated chef Pascal Olhats offers classic prix-fixe menus as well as bakery and epicerie items, sandwiches, and picnics to go. B, L (M-Sa); D (ThSa). 31451 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.488.0031 $$ Map I17
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DINING INTERNATIONAL DARYA Elegant destination for classic Persian dishes for 30 years. Kebabs a specialty; rack of lamb; vegetarian options. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.557.6600 $$$ Map J13 HELLO KITTY GRAND CAFE New. World’s first permanent Hello Kitty cafe serves treats, e.g., hot mini matcha doughnuts; Bow Room is for reservations-only afternoon tea or cocktails. Irvine Spectrum Center, 860 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 657.337.5288 $$ Map G8 MIX MIX KITCHEN BAR Superb chef Ross Pangilinan presents Filipino fusion fare and superior cocktails. Oui Chef prix fixe dinners—with complimentary wine pairings on Wednesdays. D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 300 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.836.5158 $$$ Map H13 MOZAMBIQUE African fortress gone hip and stylish offers Cal-Portuguese-South African cuisine such as piri piri prawns. Veranda rooftop dining. Complimentary ride within 15 miles. Br (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777 $$ Map I16 ROYAL KHYBER Anchor at South Coast Plaza Village marks 35 years. Warm eggplant salad; lobster masala; signature Khyber’s Nectar lamb shanks. L (Su-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). South Coast Plaza Village, 1621 Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.436.1010 $$$ Map J13 TERRACE BY MIX MIX New. Chef Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in Santa Ana offers small plates, mostly on a covered terrace. Three-course prix fixe lunch is a steal—$15. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 $$$ Map H13
ITALIAN ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE Housed in a 1909 manor, Sir Bruno Serato’s Italian steakhouse is known for its opulent fresco-filled decor and elaborately presented cuisine. D (nightly). 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.1381 $$$ Map I10 ANDREA Elegant but unstuffy dining room serves top-tier northern Italian in beautiful dining room that looks out onto elysian and ocean vistas. Pasta and gelato made in dedicated rooms. L (F-Su), D (nightly). The Resort at Pelican Hill, 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 844.445.2183 $$$$ Map L17 ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA Beautiful second location in Irvine. L, D (daily). Irvine adds Br (Sa-Su). Los Olivos Marketplace, 8573 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.536.5200; Monarch Bay Plaza, 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.429.1102 $$ Map D5, J16
IL DOLCE PIZZERIA Modest storefront belies superior artisanal Neapolitan pizzas and pastas. L, D (Tu-Su). 1902 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.200.9107 $$ Map K12 IL GARAGE Beguiling spot from David Slay, in a garage hidden behind his lauded Park Ave, amid a 1924 tractor and red-checkered tablecloths; it overlooks the garden that inspires and supplies the menu. D (Tu-Sa). 11200 Beach Blvd., Stanton, 714.901.4400 $$ Map I8 NAPLES RISTORANTE E PIZZERIA Newly renovated two-story eatery features an open kitchen on the first floor where you can watch the pizzaioli and an upper balcony with views of the bustling promenade. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1510 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.776.6200 $$ Map I10 NORTH ITALIA High-decibel space with soaring ceiling, marble-topped bar and citrus-studded patio. Truffle garlic bread, squid-ink mafaldine, salted caramel budino. L (M-F), D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 2957 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.629.7060 $$ Map K14 OLIVER’S OSTERIA New. Rimini-born chef Ferdinando Bernardi presents cuisine of Italy’s Emilia Romagna region. Porcini pappardelle, scallop risotto, Prime filet with green-pepper sauce, L, D (daily). 853 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.715.0261 $$$ Map G15 PIROZZI Convivial spot offers olive fritte, limoncelloinfused taglierini and heart-shaped Nutella pizza for two. Excellent pizzas. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 2929 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.675.2932 $$$ Map M16 PIZZERIA MOZZA From culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton and Joseph Bastianich. Start with bone marrow al forno; finish with caramel coppetta with marshmallow sauce. L, D (daily). 800 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.945.1126 $$ Map M13 PIZZERIA ORTICA Refined Neapolitan pies near performing arts amid soaring ceilings and frescoes. Guanciale pizza; squid-ink chitarra. L (M-F), D (nightly). 650 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.445.4900 $$ Map J13 RISTORANTE RUMARI Charming spot is as traditional, and accommodating, as it gets. Grilled shrimp spiedino, Sicilian-style swordfish. D (nightly). 1826 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.494.0400 $$ Map I16 SAPORI RISTORANTE Highly regarded spot near Balboa Island. Consider penne otero, polenta e porcini, and top-notch pizzes in the adjacent pizzeria. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1080 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, 949.644.4220 $$$ Map N14
JAPANESE
ANTONELLO RISTORANTE Top-notch northern Italian. Osso buco; ricotta gnocchi; Non Plus Ultra 50-ounce skirt steak. Many dishes flambéed tableside. Enoteca Lounge. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). South Coast Plaza Village, 3800 S. Plaza Drive, Santa Ana, 714.751.7153 $$$ Map J13
BLUEFIN Venerated sushi chef Takashi Abe presents exquisite sushi and creative hot entrees. L, D (daily). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 7952 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.715.7373 $$$ Map M17
BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN Contemporary spot with memorable dishes such as hamachi with sweet-and-sour shallots, wild-boar-sausage bucatini, caramel-chocolate budino and house-made limoncello liqueur. D (nightly). 210 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.257.1000 $$$ Map A3
HAMAMORI Sparkling environment with undulating curves overlooks Bear Street. Rice-cracker-coated jumbo asparagus with yuzu sea salt; tamari-marinated black cod. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.850.0880 $$$ Map J13
CUCINA ENOTECA Cal-Ital with fun decor, wine shop. Filled jars, lobster gnocchi neri, guanciale bucatini. Newport: L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). Irvine: L, D (daily). Fashion Island, 951 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.1416; Irvine Spectrum Center, 532 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222 $$ Map L15, D5
HANA RE SUSHI The youth-skewed photo exterior belies the transporting omakase-only meals—about seven superb appetizers plus nigiri sushi and dessert—and serene minimalist environment within. “Short” tasting course available Tu-Th. D (Tu-Sa). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.545.2800 $$$$ Map J13
DAVIO’S NORTHERN ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE New. East Coast concept in striking dining room features handmade pasta, fresh seafood, Prime aged Brandt Beef and a bustling bar. Br (Su), L (M-F), D (daily). 18420 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.477.4810 $$ Map J14
36 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
JOON SHABU SHABU New. Sleek hot-pot spot offers interactive cooking: Jidori chicken, Kurobuta pork shoulder, Angus ribeye, seafood, vegetarian and don’t-miss fluffy garlic ninniku sauce. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2453 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.549.1432 $$ Map J14
voted best seafood orange county i
in
DINING KITIKATA RAMEN BAN NAI Fifty-seven restaurants in Japan; this was the first in the U.S. Fave: green-chili shio ramen with tender chashu pork, nappa, garlic and Asian chives. L, D (daily). 891 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.2947 $$ Map J12 MAKINO Elaborate sushi and seafood buffet from sushi chef Kaku Makino includes crab, oysters, shrimp, sushi, nigiri, udon, ramen, salads and desserts. L, D (daily). 1818 Main St., Irvine, 949.724.1204 $$ Map J14 NOBU Harbor-side outpost of globally known spot is stunning inside and out. Patio overlooking canal offers Grand Cordon cocktail omakase. Wagyu Wednesdays. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). Lido Marina Village, 3450 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, 949.429.4440 $$$$ Map N13 OMAKASE BY GINO North County sushi chef Gino Choi unveils more centrally located 10-seat restaurant in downtown Santa Ana offering elaborate set-price menu only “for serious sushi lovers.” D (Tu-Sa). 304 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 657.231.6008 $$$ Map H13
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OOTORO SUSHI Every bite surprises, and earns rapt attention, at this omakase-centric spot; rare fish, a toro trio, A5+ Kobe beef plus elaborate cooked dishes. Finedining anchor for Trade food hall. L, D (Tu-Sa). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.222.0688 $$$ Map K13 ROBATA WASA New. Stylish spot serves equally stylish robata, sushi, ramen, udon, specialty dishes such as When Uni Meets Crab, and excellent cocktails. L, D (daily). Irvine Spectrum Center, 926 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.536.5064 $$ Map D5 SUSHI ROKU Gorgeous spot from Cal-Japanese sushi pioneer. Fluke kumquat starter, premium tofu three ways, wagyu flights, rib-eye steak Japonais, spectacular Zen s’mores dessert. L, D (daily). 327 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.706.3622 $$ Map L15
MEDITERRANEAN AVEO TABLE + BAR Coastal bounty, cool chandeliers, ocean views. Eggs al forno, porchetta sandwich, Spanish paella for two. “Farm-to-Bar” cocktails beneath vaulted ceiling. B, D (daily); L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3915 $$$ Map J17
F E AT U R I N G
Contemporary California Cuisine Handcrafted Brews Wide Screen TVs Outdoor Patio
2 convenient locations to choose from TUSTIN
ANAHEIM
HAPPY HOUR Mon - Fri 3-6:30pm* throughout the entire restaurant
HAPPY HOUR Mon - Fri 3-7pm in the bar and on the patio
(*3-5pm when there’s an event at the Honda Center or Anaheim Stadium)
2415 Park Ave • At The District
2610 E Katella • Across from The Honda Center
CATAL RESTAURANT AND UVA BAR The Uva outdoor pavilion features tapas and 40 California wines by the glass; upstairs is Catal for fine dining. L, D (daily). Downtown Disney, 1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.774.4442 $$$ Map I10 FIG & OLIVE Ode to olive oil presents sophisticated fare from crostini and crudo starters to creme brulee cheesecake in a stunning olive tree-studded setting. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Fashion Island, 151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.877.3005 $$$ Map L15 MESA Chef Niki Starr Weyler oversees stylish spot. Hip scene, cool cuisine, retractable glass roof, unisex restrooms. D (Tu-Su). The Camp, 725 Baker St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.6700 $$ Map J13 ZOV’S Venerated chef Zov Karamardian’s bistro marks 30 years. Bakery-cafe in Tustin. L, D (M-Sa). Enderle Center, 17440 E. 17th St., Tustin, 714.838.8855; 1801 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.280.9687; 3915 Portola Parkway, Irvine, 714.734.9687; 21123 Newport Coast Drive, Newport Coast, 949.760.9687 $$$ Map C5, I11, C4, L17
MEXICAN/LATIN ANEPALCO Chef Daniel Godinez applies French technique to traditional Mexican ingredients, with sophisticated, artfully presented results. Innovative cocktails. Br (Tu-Su), D (Tu-Sa). 3737 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.456.9642 $$ Map B4 CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN Chicken flautas, seafood caldo, guajillo-brasied short-rib enchilada, superb
SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 37
DINING PUESTO Eye-popping new location at Park Place. Tacos on blue-corn tortillas such as zucchini and cactus; nogada guacamole with pomegranate arils and candied walnuts; agave spirits beyond tequila and mezcal. L, D (daily). 8577 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, 949.608.9990; 3311 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.608.7272 $$ Map J12, J14 RAYA Sophisticated fare from chef Richard Sandoval, spectacular ocean views. Sweet-corn soup with cuitlacoche puree; roasted halibut with truffled boniato. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, 1 RitzCarlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000 $$$ Map J16
Gnocchi Bolognese at Angelina’s
flan amid stylish design. Irvine: L, D (daily). Brea: L, D (M-Sa); Br (Su). 13126 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.408.7819; 110 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1040 $$ Map C5, A3 DESCANSO New. Taco-stand and other central Mexican street cuisine in a full-service restaurant, plus a loftier Benihana-like multicourse plancha experience and paleta cocktails featuring Mexico’s famed frozenpop bars. L, D (daily). 1555 Adams Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.486.3798 $$ Map D3 EL MERCADO MODERN CUISINE Anepalco chef Danny Godinez puts his spin on specialties from each of Mexico’s states in a hip and comfortable space. Cesar Cerrudo adds mezcal cocktails. L, D (Tu-Sa); Br (Su). 301 N. Spurgeon St., Santa Ana, 714.338.2446 $$ Map H13 GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Old Towne daytrippers and tequila connoisseurs duck into this rustically stylish haven for spirited takes on regional Mexican fare far beyond tacos and burritos. L, D (daily). 141 S. Glassell St., Orange, 714.633.3038 $$ Map C4
RED O Sexy design with Moroccan accents. Ceviches, guacamole tasting, excellent salsas, lamb chops mole negro. Extensive tequila list. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 143 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.718.0300 $$$ Map L15 SOL COCINA Stylish spot overlooks harbor canals, offers vibrant Baja-inspired dishes. Hot & Raw tropical ceviche, taco Vampiro, Kobe skirt steak. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 251 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.675.9800 $$ Map M14 TACO MARÍA The late Pulitzer Prize-winning Jonathan Gold named it the Los Angeles Times’ 2018 restaurant of the year. Carlos Salgado serves up fascinating “Chicano cuisine.” Memorable tacos at lunch; four-course prix fixe dinner. L, D (Tu-Sa); Br (Su). SoCo & the OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.538.8444 $$$ Map J12 TORTILLA JO’S Traditional and contemporary Mexican fare in a lively setting with tableside guacamole, huaraches, enchiladas de mole and pozole rojo, plus strolling mariachis and an impressive collection of tequila. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Downtown Disney, 1510 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.535.5000 $$ Map I10 VACA Spanish spot serving tapas, paellas, house-made charcuterie, 50-day aged steaks and superb cocktails (e.g., Vaca Tonic, house-made vermouth) from Amar Santana, a Bravo Top Chef runner-up, and partner Ahmed Labbate. L (M-F), D (W-M). 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.463.6060 $$$ Map J13
SEAFOOD
HABANA Hip Nuevo Latino destinations with great brunches; palatial Irvine location adds breakfast, teatime and a bakery. Ropa vieja; tamale pie. Costa Mesa: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Irvine: B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.556.0176; Irvine Spectrum Center, 708 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, 949.450.1004 $$ Map J13, D5
BLUEWATER GRILL Fresh selection at harbor-front spot—a wide variety from Australian barramundi to farm-raised Mississippi catfish—changes daily. L, D (daily). 630 Lido Park Drive, Newport Beach, 949.675.3474 $$ Map N13
INKA GRILL Peruvian classics. Try paella or parehuela (like bouillabaisse). L, D (daily). 260 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.444.4652; 23600 Rockfield Blvd., Lake Forest, 949.587.9008 $$ Map J13, D6
BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO. Fun spot inspired by the film Forrest Gump. Start with the peel-and-eat Shrimper’s Net Catch. L, D (daily). Anaheim GardenWalk, 321 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.635.4867 $$ Map I10
LAS BRISAS Window-lined, elegant cliff-top spot with superb coastal views. Snapper Veracruzana, Yucatán chicken. Popular patio has its own Seaside Menu. New Cantina. B (M-Sa); L, D (daily); Br (Su). 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434 $$$ Map H15
THE CANNERY The harbor-view spot is historic—a cannery in 1921, a fine seafood restaurant for 40 years, now better than ever. Lobster carbonara; loup de mer; Balboa sundae. Upstairs Jellyfish Lounge features sushi. Great happy hour. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3010 Lafayette Ave., Newport Beach, 949.566.0060 $$ Map N13
PLAYA MESA Coastal cuisine amid vibrant decor. Guacamole with serranos and pepitas; tacos with oystermushroom confit; chocoflan dessert. Colorful tequila and mezcal cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 428 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.287.5292 $$ Map D3 PORTO’S BAKERY & CAFE There’s always a line at this sprawling, family-owned Cuban spot; the menu is comprehensive, but the focus is on sandwiches. B, L, D (daily). 7640 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.367.2030 $$ Map B2 PUEBLO Cozy, upbeat spot offers tapas—short rib two ways, pimentón potato, mojo verde—bocadillos, and cheese and charcuterie boards indoors and on winning patio. Daily specials can be the ticket. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). SoCo & the OC Mix, 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.340.5775 $$ Map D5
38 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
THE CATCH Sleek spot popular with sports fans as well as concertgoers—it’s near Angel Stadium and Honda Center. Five-pound OMG burger feeds 10; hot chocolate sundae flamed tableside. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2100 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.935.0101 $$ Map I1 CHART HOUSE The architecture alone—three circular pods atop a bluff overlooking the harbor—is worth a visit. Lobster bisque; crispy wok-fried whole fish; hot lava chocolate cake with Godiva liqueur; Port of Manhattan cocktail. D (nightly). 34442 Street of the Green Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.1183 $$$ Map J16 CIRCLE HOOK Bear Flag Fish Co. team opens harbor-side spot with imaginative nautical decor. vodkabattered fish and chips; crab chowder; local ahi bánh mì; Thai coconut clams; blackened yellowfin tuna. L, D
(daily). Lido Marina Village, 3432 Via Oporto, Suite 104, Newport Beach, 949.529.2784 $$ Map N13 DUKE’S Hawaiian-inspired seafood and Prime steaks amid beach-house ambiance adjacent to Huntington Beach Pier. Barefoot Bar on the sand, endless ocean views. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 317 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.6446 $$ Map N9 MARKET BROILER Mix ’n’ match fresh fish ‘n’ sauce. Mesquite-grilled seafood and steaks, sushi, on-site fish market. L, D (daily). The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. W., Orange, 714.769.FISH; 20111 Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach, 714.431.7796 $$ Map J11, L1 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB Bluff-top, ocean-view spot. Seafood in majestic proportions, seafood tower and not-to-be-missed warm butter cake. D (nightly). Crystal Cove Shopping Center, 8112 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.376.6990 $$$$ Map M17 TAPS FISH HOUSE AND BREWERY Seafood and steaks, oyster bar and award-winning brews. L (M-Sa), D nightly), Br (Su). New Taps Brewery and Barrel Room in Tustin. 101 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 714.257.0101; the Market Place, 13390 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.619.0404; brewery, 15501 Red Hill Ave., Tustin $$$ Map A3, C5, C4 WATER GRILL Upscale destination opposite South Coast Plaza includes the county’s best oyster bar. In the dining room: wild Barents Sea red king crab, 1-pound Prime rib-eye and indulgent desserts. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 949.208.7060 $$$ Map J13 WATERLINE “Water to table” fresh local seafood experience overlooking the harbor includes crab eggs Benedict at breakfast, halibut BLT at lunch and scallops “Peas & Carrots” at dinner. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Su (Br). Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4390 $$$ Map M13
STEAK AGORA CHURRASCARIA Choice cuts at Brazilian steakhouse are cooked over a fire pit. Gaucho-garbed waiters offer 16 sumptuous cuts, from picanha (a sirloin specialty) to coração (delicate chicken hearts). Elaborate hot and cold bar. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1830 Main St., Irvine, 949.222.9910 $$$ Map 13 BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS Akaushi Kobe-style Prime steaks and burgers, and seafood, amid whimsical industrial-chic decor and on the county’s largest oceanview patio. L, D (daily). 300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 202, Huntington Beach, 714.960.0096 $$$ Map N9 BOURBON STEAK Luxe Michael Mina spot offers spectacular tableside presentations: cast-iron-broiled shellfish platter; hay-smoked rib-eye cap; tai snapper for two; Kagoshima A5 wagyu strip loin. Remarkable oldand new-school cocktails. D (nightly). 1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3405 $$$ Map J17 THE CAPITAL GRILLE Elegant spot offers dry-aged beef amid portraits of local historic figures. Pan-fried calamari with cherry peppers, bone-in kona-crusted dryaged sirloin, ethereal cheesecake. 5,000 wines; classic cocktails. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.432.1140 $$$$ Map J13 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Sleek venue, new redo; prime everything. Bustling bar with 100 wines by the glass; prime rib on Sundays. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.720.9633 $$$ Map L15 GRASSLANDS Sprawling meat market, barbecue and churrasco restaurant at Anaheim GardenWalk. Stars of the show: juicy slow-smoked brisket, famed Brazilian cut picanha and short rib—cut long! L (Su), D (nightly). 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.208.1133 $$$ Map I10
4.625’’ x 4.875’’ DINING LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE Fine-dining in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Elaborately presented starters; Snake River Farms wagyu-style New York; Valrhona chocolate beggar’s purse. D (Tu-Su). 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.429.7640 $$$ Map J13 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky spot offers largerthan-life portions and white-jacket service. Wet-aged hand-cut bone-in filet; off-menu crab gnocchi; and, oooh, warm butter cake. Bar offers generous cocktails, live music. D (nightly). 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405 $$$$ Map J13 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE Classy bastions of beef: service-plus, colossal portions. Show-and-tell menu recitation. Anaheim: D (nightly); Santa Ana: L (M-F), D (nightly). 1895 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.621.0101; South Coast Plaza Village, 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.444.4834 $$$$ Map I10, J13
PRIME STEAKS & PRIMO VIEWS
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Bone-in cowboy rib-eye; caramelized banana cream pie. Soaring ceilings, modern sculpture, colorful glass at Anaheim location. Anaheim: D (nightly); Irvine: L (F), D (daily). 2041 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.750.5466; 2961 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.252.8848 $$$$ Map I10, K1
Dinner | Happy Hour | Patio Dining
SELANNE STEAK TAVERN Hockey legend Teemu Selänne’s upscale spot with several distinct dining environments including a beautiful covered patio. Pacific diver scallops, scarlet beet ravioli, Lord Stanley Cut (bone-in rib-eye) wagyu steak for two, monkey bread dessert. D (nightly), Br (Su). 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881 $$$ Map I16
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SUPATRA’S THAI BISTRO Cozy gem presents traditional cuisine and decor. Soups are a specialty; most seafood dishes are spicy; soju cocktails. L, D (Tu-Su). 21560 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, 714.693.2888 $$ Map A5 1/11/19 7:02 AM
THAI NAKORN Long considered one of Orange County’s best traditional Thai spots. Fried fish with mango salad, clam in chili paste and basil. L, D (daily). 12532 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, 714.583.8938 $$ Map I8, K10
VEGAN
We’ll Pick You Up!
Complimentary Safe Rides within Laguna Beach, and up to a 10 mile radius.
AU LAC Amazing plant-based “shrimp” (salt-andpepper shrimp), “chicken” (kung pao chicken) and “beef” (beef watercress) at vegan landmark. L, D (Tu-Su). 16563 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 714.418.0658 $$ Map C3 GRATITUDE Chic and airy spot presents elaborate dishes with affirming names such as “Welcoming” and superb cocktails. B, L, D (daily). Westcliff Plaza, 1617 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, 949.386.8103 $$$ Map L14 HEALTHY JUNK Good eats. Eat happy. Reimagined plant-based snack junk and comfort foods includes burgers and pizzas. L, D (daily). 201 W. Center Street Promenade, Unit B, Anaheim, 714.772.5865 $$ Map H10 SEABIRDS KITCHEN Plant-based purple taquitos, artichoke drumsticks (they look like fried chicken!), chaffle (churro waffle). L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.549.2584 $$ Map J13
VIETNAMESE
ROOFTOP DINING
SPECIAL EVENTS
LIVE MUSIC
1740 S. Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, Ca 92651 949.715.7777 www.MozambiqueOC.com
ANQI BISTRO Innovative small plates in sexy setting with backlit bar and glass catwalk over running stream. Amazing garlic noodles; secret-recipe garlic crab on Tuesdays. L, D (daily). South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.557.5679 $$$ Map J13
BAMBOO BISTRO Contemporary Vietnamese and Thai fare from Chau Dang Haller, whose mother owns SPRING 2019 WHERE ORANGE COUNTY 39
DINING Brodard Chateau. Crepes, Thai soups, pho, vermicelli and curries. L, D (daily). 2600 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.720.1289 $$ Map M16 BRODARD CHATEAU Elegant two-story venue serves regional dishes of Hanoi, Hue and Saigon. Less expensive sibling Brodard Restaurant in Fountain Valley has gotten more attention of late. Chateau L, D (daily); restaurant B, L, D (daily). 9100 Trask Ave., Garden Grove, 714.899.8273; 16105 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 657.247.4401 $$$ Map K8, C3 DESTINATION SEAFOOD HOUSE Cheery new nautically themed spot. Salmon-belly spring rolls, quail with sticky rice, crispy-skin whole catfish. One side is devoted to superb hand-rolled ice cream. L, D (F-W). 15606 Brookhurst St., Westminster, 714.884.4692 $$ Map C3 LSXO Intimate, extraordinary restaurant hidden within Bluegold at Pacific City. Fifty Saigon-style dishes, a handful of top-tier cocktails, intoxicating ambiance at night. Plus afternoon tea. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0083 $$ Map N9
FOOD HALLS ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE Historic Sunkist citrus hub hosts two dozen foodie vendors including Adya for Cal-Indian, Georgia’s for Southern, Urbana for Mexican, Mangal for Syrian, Black Sheep GCB for grilled cheese, Popbar for gelato on a stick, Blind Rabbit speakeasy and Hammer Workshop & Bar. L, D (daily). 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.635.1350 $$ Map H10 4TH STREET MARKET Fifteen foodie tenants include Dos Chinos, Supernatural Sandwiches, Electric City Butcher, Chunk N Chip, Portola Coffee Lab and Recess Libations for cocktails on tap. New: All Flavor No Grease, Steel Pan Pizza and La Vegana Mexicana. L, D (daily). 201 E. 4th St., Santa Ana, 714.486.0700 $$ Map H13 LOT 579 Tenants include Burnt Crumbs for artisanal sandwiches, American Dream for burgers and beer, Bear Flag Fish Co. for poke, The Dudes’ Brewing Company, Frosted Cupcakery and PopBar for gelato on a stick. L, D (daily). Pacific City, 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, gopacificcity.com $$ Map N9 MCFADDEN PUBLIC MARKET Fun food hall/vintagearcade bar includes from Leonard Chan (Hatch, Shuck). Tenants include Rooster Republic fried chicken, Element 7 Seven, Ramen Tokudai and Lost Art Bar. L, D (daily). 515 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 657.232.3338 $ Map H13 TRADE FOOD HALL Innovative concepts near airport anchored by Ootoro Sushi (see Japanese). Two Birds chicken, Butterleaf vegetarian, Dos Chinos fusion tacos, Red Envelope for Vietnamese, Center Hub bar and Sweet Combforts desserts. B, L, D (daily). 2222 Michelson Drive, Irvine, tradefoodhall.com $ Map J14 UNION MARKET MISSION VIEJO Dining on upper level of entertainment center. Oyu Shabu for shabushabu, Hummus Bowl, Dry Society for craft cocktails, Tapas for Spanish cuisine and flamenco shows. L, D (daily). Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, unionmarketmissionviejo.com $$ Map E6 UNION MARKET TUSTIN Diverse tenants include Hatch for sliders and tiki drinks, Kettlebar Steam Cooking for pan roasts, Cubed for poke, the Kroft for sandwiches and poutine, and popular Central Bar. L, D (daily). The District at Tustin Legacy, 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, unionmarkettustin.com $$ Map D4
QUICK BITES BRAIZEN SEXY SANDWICHES New. Thoughtfully curated selection of well-designed sandwiches featuring braised and roasted meats and fresh-baked breads, and burgers, near 55 Freeway. L, D (M-Sa). 31 E. MacArthur Crescent, Santa Ana, 657.900.2040 $ Map C4
40 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
DINING
See Newport Beach. Dine Differently. BREATHTAKING VIEWS. INDULGENT DINING. CLASSIC COCKTAILS.
BURNTZILLA Two successful food trucks joined forces to serve modern comfort sliders and Asian fusion hot dogs. Walnut Village Center, 14413 Culver Drive, Irvine, 949.392.5995 $ Map D5
Get the most out of Newport Beach with a Hornblower cruise. Whether it’s a lavish dinner or brunch cruise, or a new Signature Series cruise, a Hornblower excursion is always memorable. Visit Hornblower.com/ WhereOC or call (855) 463-1494 for reservations.
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Home Sweet Home .
BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN New. Acclaimed chef Ryan Adams offers fried chicken, fried-chicken sandwiches—try the Southern Samurai!— and fried-chicken smothered tots in Old Towne Orange. L, D (Tu-Su). 238 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, 949.392.5995 $ Map C4 CATMOSPHERE LAGUNA Cat cafe and lounge. The cafe offers cheeses, toasts, salads and wine. In the lounge are cats and kittens for adoption. L (Tu-Su). 381 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.619.6369 $ Map H15 DORY DELI Deli sandwiches, beachside setting. Steakand-cheese Rocky Balboa sandwich; fish ’n’ chips use Dory Fleet catch. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2108 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach, 949.220.7886 $ Map N13 18 FOLDS Stylish spot next to Anaheim Packing House is the county’s first all-day, fast-casual dim sum eatery; impressive local-beer lineup. L, D (daily). 430 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 949.392.5995 $ Map H10 THE HALAL GUYS First West Coast outpost of famed New York street cart; habit-forming gyros, chicken and falafel. Hugely popular. L, D (daily). 3033 Bristol St., Suite E, Costa Mesa, 714.850.1080 $ Map J13 MCDONALD’S By the numbers it’s America’s favorite hamburger restaurant; this one’s near the Disney theme parks. B, L, D (daily). 1500 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.491.0563, 70 other county locations. $ Map I10 PARALLEL PIZZERIA New. Oblong, charcoal-fired New Haven-style pizzas such as mashed potato and Little Neck clam are a hit! L, D (daily). 34255 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.441.7406 $$ Map J17 PROVISIONS MARKET Artisan market/bottle shop offers innovative sandwiches; start with beet-habanero pickled eggs. 500 craft beers, 30 on tap. L, D (daily). 143 N. Glassell St., Orange, 714.997.2337 $$ Map C4 SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Creative sandwiches and tasty salads; new Irvine location adds excellent burgers. B, L, D (daily). 4736 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, 949.333.3949; 414 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.594.3899; 2823 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.220.9001 $ Map D4, N9, N13 SLAPFISH There’s lots else but lobster’s the ticket: Lobster roll, Clobster Grilled Cheese (our fave) and Surf n Turf Burger. L, D (daily). Five locations including 3405 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, 657.444.2291; 2727 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.723.0034 211 Broadway St., Laguna Beach, 949.715.0464 $$ Map M13, H15, A3 TACKLE BOX Top Chef alumnus Brian Huskey’s “local grub shack” on Corona del Mar State Beach and new at South Coast Collection., where the weekend bloody Mary is a meal unto itself. B, L (Tu-Su). 3029 E. Shore Ave., Corona del Mar, 949.723.0502; 3313 Hyland Ave., Suite E, Costa Mesa, 949.732.0502 $$ Map M16, J12 TACO MESA TORTILLERÍA ORGÁNICA & CAFÉ Thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented Mexican fare unusual for quick-serve; vegetarian/vegan options. B, L, D (daily). 3533 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 714.633.3922 $$ Map B5
1500 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim (Across the street from Disneyland® Resort)
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RESTAURANTS CITY INDEX OUR SUPERGUIDE BY AREA, WITH CROSS REFERENCE TO LISTINGS BY CUISINE
ANAHEIM
MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak) ......................39
THE CUT (American) .......................................................32
OAK GRILL (California)...................................................34
ANAHEIM PACKING HOUSE (Food Hall) .........40
MESA (Mediterranean-American) ..................................37
DAVIO’S (Italian) ..............................................................36
OLEA (California) ...............................................................34
ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE (Italian) .....................36
MORTON’S (Steak) ........................................................39
EATS KITCHEN (Eclectic) ............................................35
PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian) ........................................36
BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO. (Seafood) .............38
OLD VINE KITCHEN + BAR (American)............33
HABANA (Latin)...............................................................38
PROVENANCE (California) .........................................34
CATAL / UVA BAR (Mediterranean) ........................37
PIZZERIA ORTICA (Italian) ........................................36
HEIRLOOM FARMHOUSE (California)................34
RED O (Mexican) ..............................................................38
THE CATCH (Seafood) ...................................................38
PLAYA MESA (Mexican) ...............................................38
HELLO KITTY GRAND CAFE (International)....36
THE ROYAL HEN (Gastropub)...................................34
18 FOLDS (Chinese) .......................................................41
PUEBLO (Spanish)............................................................38
MAKINO (Japanese) ........................................................37
RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................33
GRASSLANDS (Steak) ..................................................38
ROYAL KHYBER (Indian) ............................................36
MEIZHOU DONGPO (Chinese)...............................35
SAPORI RISTORANTE (Italian) ...............................36
HEALTHY JUNK (Vegan).............................................39
SEABIRDS KITCHEN (Vegan) ..................................39
NORTH ITALIA (Italian)................................................36
SLAPFISH (Quick Bites) ..................................................41
HOUSE OF BLUES (American).................................33
SEASONS 52 (American) .............................................34
OOTORO SUSHI (Japanese) .......................................37
SESSIONS DELI (Quick Bites).....................................41
J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) ....................................34
SILVER TRUMPET (California) ...................................34
PUESTO (Mexican)...........................................................38
SOL COCINA (Mexican)...............................................38
MCDONALD’S (Quick Bites)................................41
SOCIAL (American) ..........................................................34
ROBATA WASA (Japanese) .........................................37
SUSHI ROKU (Japanese) ..............................................37
MIX (Eclectic).......................................................................35
TACKLE BOX (Quick Bites) ..........................................41
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).............39
21 OCEANFRONT (Continental)..............................35
MORTON’S (Steak) ........................................................39
TACO MARÍA (Mexican) ..............................................38
SESSIONS DELI (Quick Bites) ............................................ 41
WATERLINE (Seafood)...................................................38
NAPA ROSE (California) ...............................................34
TERRACE BY MIX MIX (International)..................36
TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood) ...................................38
THE WINERY (California)..............................................34
NAPLES RISTORANTE (Italian) ..............................36
TOAST KITCHEN + BAKERY (American)..........34
TRADE FOOD HALL (Food Hall) .............................40
RALPH BRENNAN’S (American).............................33
UMAMI BURGER (American) ....................................34
TWENTY EIGHT (Chinese)..........................................35
NEWPORT COAST
THE RANCH (American) ...............................................33
VACA (Spanish)..................................................................38
UMAMI BURGER (American) ....................................34
THE BEACHCOMBER (American)..........................32
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (Steak).............39
WATER GRILL (Seafood)...............................................38
ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean) ................................37
BLUEFIN (Japanese) ........................................................36
TORTILLA JO’S (Mexican) ..........................................38
DANA POINT
LAGUNA BEACH
MARCHÉ MODERNE (French) ................................35
ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian).............................36
BROADWAY (American) ...............................................32
AVEO TABLE + BAR (Mediterranean) .....................37
CATMOSPHERE LAGUNA (Quick Bites).................. 41
TRU GRITS (Eclectic) ......................................................35 UMAMI BURGER (American) ....................................34 ZOV’S ANAHEIM (Mediterranean) ..........................37
ANDREA (Italian) .............................................................36
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seafood) ..................38 ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean) ................................37
BOURBON STEAK (Steak) ........................................38
DRIFTWOOD (American) .............................................32
ORANGE
BREA
CHART HOUSE (Seafood) ...........................................38
HARLEY LAGUNA BEACH (American)...............32
ANEPALCO’S (Mexican-French) .................................37
BRUNOS ITALIAN KITCHEN (Italian).................36
PARALLEL PIZZERIA (Quick Bites) ..........................41
HARVEST (California)......................................................34
BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN (Quick Bites).... 41
CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN (Mexican)............37
RAYA (Latin Fusion) ...........................................................38
HENDRIX (American)......................................................32
THE FILLING STATION CAFE (American).........32
FOUNTAIN VALLEY
INKA GRILL (Peruvian) ..................................................38
GABBI’S MEXICAN KITCHEN (Mexican)..........38
K’YA BISTRO BAR (California)..................................34
HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew Pub) ...........................34
LAS BRISAS (Mexican) ..................................................38
LUCILLE’S SMOKEHOUSE (American) ...............33
MOZAMBIQUE (South African) .................................36
MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................38
CLAIM JUMPER (American).......................................32 SLAPFISH (Quick Bites) ..................................................41 TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood) ...................................38
AU LAC (Vegan)................................................................39 BRODARD RESTAURANT (Vietnamese).............40
BUENA PARK
DESTINATION SEAFOOD (Vietnamese) ............40
CLAIM JUMPER (American).......................................32
SUMMIT HOUSE (Continental) .................................35
IL GARAGE (ITALIAN) ............................... 36 MRS. KNOTT’S CHICKEN (American) ................33 PARK AVE (American) ....................................................33 PORTO’S BAKERY & CAFE (Cuban) ...................38
CORONA DEL MAR BAMBOO BISTRO (Vietnamese) .............................39 FARMHOUSE (American).............................................32 FIVE CROWNS (Continental) ......................................35 PIROZZI (Italian) ...............................................................36
MOULIN (French) .............................................................35
ORANGE HILL (Continental) .......................................35
OAK LAGUNA BEACH (California) .......................34
PROVISIONS MARKET (Quick Bites) ....................41
FULLERTON
OCEAN AT MAIN (American)...................................33
TACO MESA TORTILLERÍA (Mexican) ................41
JOURNEYMAN’S (Eclectic) .......................................35
OLIVER’S OSTERIA (Italian) .....................................36
WATSON’S SODA FOUNTAIN (American) ......... 34
PICKLED MONK (Gastropub) ....................................34
RISTORANTE RUMARI (Italian) .............................36
SUPATRA’S THAI BISTRO (Thai) ...........................39
SAPPHIRE (Eclectic) ........................................................35
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
WRECKLESS (American)...............................................34
SELANNE STEAK TAVERN (Steak) .....................39
GARDEN GROVE BRODARD CHATEAU (Vietnamese)......................40 THAI NAKORN (Thai)..................................................39
SIDE DOOR (Gastropub)...............................................34
HUNTINGTON BEACH
TACKLE BOX (Quick Bites) ..........................................41
THE AMERICAN DREAM (American)..................32
COSTA MESA/ SOUTH COAST METRO
BLK EARTH SEA SPIRITS (Steak)..........................38
ANQI (Vietnamese Fusion) ..............................................39 ANTONELLO RISTORANTE (Italian) ..................36 ARC (American) ..................................................................32 THE CAPITAL GRILLE (Steak)..................................38 CLAIM JUMPER (American).......................................32 THE CRACK SHACK (American) .............................32 THE COUNTRY CLUB (American) ..........................32 DARYA (Indian)..................................................................36 DESCANSO (Mexican) ..................................................38 DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese) .............................................34 EAT CHOW (American) .................................................32
BLUEGOLD (California) .................................................34 DUKE’S (Seafood).............................................................38 LOT 579 (Food Hall).........................................................40 LSXO (Vietnamese) ...........................................................40 MARKET BROILER (Seafood)....................................38 PACIFIC HIDEAWAY (California) .............................34 RUBY’S DINER (American)..........................................33 SEALEGS WINE BAR (California) ...........................34 SESSIONS DELI (Quick Bites) ............................................ 41 TANNER’S (California)....................................................34 320 MAIN (American) ....................................................34 WATERTABLE (American) ...........................................34
SLAPFISH (Quick Bites) ..................................................41 SPLASHES (California)....................................................34
BAD TO THE BONE (American) .............................32 PASCAL (French)...............................................................35 RAMOS HOUSE CAFÉ (American)........................33
STUDIO (California)..........................................................34
SANTA ANA
UNION MARKET (Food Halls) ...................................40
BRAIZEN SEXY SANDWICHES (Quick Bites) ... 40
NEWPORT BEACH A RESTAURANT (American) ......................................32 A&O KITCHEN + BAR (Gastropub) .......................34 BACK BAY BISTRO (American)................................32 BAYSIDE RESTAURANT (American) .....................32 BLUEWATER GRILL (Seafood) ..................................38 THE CANNERY (Seafood) ...........................................38 CIRCLE HOOK (Seafood).............................................38 CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian).....................................36 DORY DELI (Quick Bites)...............................................41 EAT CHOW (American) .................................................32 FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean) .....................................37 FLEMING’S (Steak).........................................................38
EAT CHOW (American) .................................................32 EL MERCADO (Mexican) .............................................38 4TH STREET MARKET (Food Halls) .......................40 LUCILLE’S SMOKEHOUSE (American) ...............33 MCFADDEN PUBLIC MARKET (Quick Bites)..... 40 MIX MIX KITCHEN + BAR (New Filipino)...........36 OMAKASE BY GINO (Japanese) ............................37 PLAYGROUND (American) .........................................33 TANGATA (California) .....................................................34
SAN CLEMENTE THE CELLAR (American) ..............................................32 MRK PUBLIC (Gastropub) ............................................34 ROCKWELL’S BAKERY (American) ........................33
GRATITUDE (Vegan) ......................................................39
TUSTIN
GREAT MAPLE (American) .........................................32
HOPDODDY (American) ..............................................32
HABANA (Latin)...............................................................38
IRVINE
HOPDODDY (American) ..............................................32
JOON SHABU SHABU (Japanese) ........................36
THE HALAL GUYS (Quick Bites)...............................41
AGORA CHURRASCARIA (Argentinian) .............38
JULIETTE KITCHEN + BAR (American)..............33
J.T. SCHMID’S (Brew Pub) ..........................................34
HAMAMORI (Japanese) ................................................36
ANDREI’S (American) .....................................................32
LIDO BOTTLE WORKS (California) .......................34
J. ZHOU (Chinese) ...........................................................34
HANA RE SUSHI (Japanese) ......................................36
ANGELINA’S PIZZERIA (Italian).............................36
LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFÉ (American) ...........33
LUCILLE’S SMOKEHOUSE (American) ...............33
IL DOLCE PIZZERIA (Italian) ....................................36
BISTANGO (American)...................................................32
MALIBU FARM (California) .........................................34
TAPS FISH HOUSE (Seafood) ...................................38
INKA GRILL (Peruvian) ..................................................38
BURNTZILLA (Quick Bites) ...........................................41
MAYOR’S TABLE (California).....................................34
UNION MARKET (Food Halls) ...................................40
KITIKATA RAMEN BAN NAI (Japanese)............37
CHA CHA’S LATIN KITCHEN (Mexican)............37
MOULIN (French) .............................................................35
THE WINERY (California)..............................................34
LEATHERBY’S CAFÉ ROUGE (Steak) .....................39
CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian).....................................36
NOBU (Japanese) ..............................................................37
ZOV’S BISTRO (Mediterranean) ................................37
OCDINING THE FILLING STATION CAFE The Filling Station Cafe and Coffee House in charming Old Towne Orange is a favorite among locals and visitors, known for its distinctive all-day breakfast and cafe classics. Housed in the historic Baker’s Richfield gas station, built in the 1920s, the family-friendly spot specializes in breakfast dishes as diverse as pork chorizo & eggs and cranberry-orange French toast, and globe-spanning dinner options including Asian pot stickers, Italian cioppino and American pot roast. Also served all day: salads, sandwiches, tacos, burgers and beef platters. B, L, D (daily).
201 N. Glassell St., Orange 714.289.9714 • fillingstationcafe.com
ANDREI’S CONSCIOUS CUISINE & COCKTAILS Andrei’s creative and sustainably-sourced local cuisine is the perfect complement to its sophisticated, urban atmosphere. Enjoy dishes like their famous panko-crusted Portobello Steak Fries, Wild Boar Chili or Pacific Scallops in the sleek dining room or citrus-and-herb garden terrace. Andrei’s is known for craft cocktails such as their Chilean Spice. Silver Oak Saturdays offer the vineyard’s bottles at half price including Alexander Valley Cabernet and Napa Valley Cabernet. Saturday brunch and lunch 11 am-2:30 pm. Happy hour Monday-Saturday 3-6:30 pm. Events and private dining available. Br (Sa), L (M-Sa), and D (M-Sa).
2607 Main St., Irvine 949.387.8887 • andreisrestaurant.com
21 OCEANFRONT Looking out onto the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island, 21 Oceanfront offers breathtaking sunset views from three beautifully appointed dining rooms. 21 Oceanfront is known for its baseball-cut swordfish, tender California red abalone, Alaskan king crab legs, fresh cuts of beef and its extensive wine list. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two as well as for corporate gatherings, the local favorite has been consistently recognized as one of O.C.’s best and most romantic restaurants. Complimentary transportation for groups of eight or more. Live entertainment and happy hour in the Oceanfront Bar and Lounge. D (nightly).
2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach 949.673.2100 • 21oceanfront.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
/ ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL EVENTS FESTIVAL OF WHALES Mar. 2-3, 9-10. 48th annual festival celebrates the California gray whale migration with a parade, concerts, crafts and marine-mammal cruises. Call for hours. Free. Dana Point Harbor, 949.496.1045, festivalofwhales.com Map J16 CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL Mar. 17. Huntington Beach’s fifth-annual festival featuring Japanese dance, music, cultural exhibits, arts, crafts and games, plus Japanese food offerings. 10:30 am-5:30 pm. Free. Huntington Beach Central Park Bandstand, 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach, hbcbfest.com Map D2 OC RESTAURANT WEEK Mar. 3-9. Nearly 150 restaurants across Orange County offer discounted prixfixe menus, cocktail specials and breakfast for dinner options. Various locations, ocrestaurantweek.com SWALLOWS DAY PARADE Mar. 23. Salutes storied 61st-annual bird visit from Argentina. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976, swallowsparade.com Map I17
Back at the Ranch The Ranch Saloon, adjacent to the Ranch in Anaheim, one of the finest restaurants in North County, presents the best in live country music on a concert stage featuring a Meyer sound system and a dance floor that manages to feel both open and intimate. The calendar mixes prime country-music entertainers, local country bands and a country deejay for dancing nightly. Dance instructors teach two-step, West Coast swing and line dancing free Wednesday through Sunday; family night is the first Sunday of the month. According to owner Andrew Edwards, the saloon pays homage to the Crazy Horse Steakhouse & Saloon and Palomino Club of yore. Enjoy everything from Southern-fried dill pickles or peanuts from Wilson, North Carolina, to a cowboy rib-eye from the restaurant next door, among the very best steaks in the county. p. 51
NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL Apr. 25-May 2. 20th-anniversary event presents more than 300 films— features, shorts, documentaries and animation—as well as parties and sessions with directors and screenwriters. Schedule: newportbeachfilmfest.com Map K16 NEWPORT ENSENADA RACE Apr. 26-28. World’s largest yacht race. Best views from Corona del Mar coastal cliffs and Balboa Pier. nosa.org Map N12 TASTE OF HUNTINGTON BEACH Apr. 28. 18th-annual tasting event with live entertainment by the Ramsey Brothers Band. Noon-4 pm. $50-$80. Huntington Beach Sports Complex, 18100 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, tastehb.com Map D2 TUSTIN LOBSTERFEST May 18. Unlimited whole lobster festival featuring live music from the Shady Street Band. 4:30-8 pm. $25-$75. Peppertree Park, 200 S. C St., Tustin, tustinlobsterfest.com Map C4 DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL May 18-19. Blues, rock and R&B on three stages. Microbrews, wine lounge. Sa 11 am-9:30 pm; Su 11 am-9 pm. $100-$400. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, dohenybluesfestival.com Map H15 GARDEN GROVE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL May 24-27. Parade, carnival rides, strawberry cake. F 1-10 pm; Sa-Sun 10 am-10 pm; M 10 am-9 pm. Free. Rides from $1. Village Green between Main and Euclid streets, Garden Grove, 714.638.0981, strawberryfestival.org Map J9
THEATER BLUES IN THE NIGHT Mar. 1-10. Tony and Olivier Award-nominated musical tells of the experiences three women have with the snake of a man who represents the men who do them wrong. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15 ALADDIN Mar. 6-23. Disney’s Broadway hit musical features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony and Academy Award winner Alan Menken. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 HEISENBERG Mar. 27-Apr. 14. What happens when free-spirited American plants a kiss on the neck of mid-70s British butcher; written by Tony Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15
GUIDELINES Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pp. 53-55. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
INDEX Special Events ............ 44 Shopping Destinations 49 Theater ....................... 44 Eatertainment ............ 50 Music + Dance ............. 44 Golf Courses............... 50 Sports ......................... 46 Active Outdoors .......... 51 Attractions .................. 46 Nightlife ...................... 51 Museums .................... 48 Tours + Transport ....... 51
POOR YELLA REDNECKS Mar. 30-Apr. 27. Taking place after the award-winning Vietgone comes a tale six years later about one family’s history. A raucously funny, deeply moving take on the immigrant story, told with hip-hop style. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 CATS Apr. 9-14. Seven-time Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of one magical night when a tribe of cats gathers for its annual ball to rejoice and decide which cat will be reborn. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 SHEN YUN Apr. 16-28. Extravaganza brings the spirit of China’s 5,000 years of civilization to life with music, dance and acrobatics. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787 Map J13 M. BUTTERFLY Opening May 11. Poignant Tony Awardwinning breakout hit about a married French diplomat, a mysterious Chinese opera diva and a passionate 20-year affair. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555 Map J13 HARVEY Opening May 29. Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy tells the story of Elwood P. Dowd and his imaginary friend Harvey, a 61/2-foot-tall rabbit. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787 Map G15
MUSIC + DANCE HONDA CENTER Mar. 2 Sarah Brightman. Apr. 13 P!nk. May 24 New Kids on the Block. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11 HOUSE OF BLUES Mar. 1 Chippendales (ages 18+). Mar. 8 Cradle of Filth. Mar. 9 Metric & Zoé with July Talk. Mar. 9 Peter Yorn. Mar. 14 Baroness, Deafheaven. Mar. 23 Totally ‘80s Live! Mar. 24 State Champs. Mar. 29 Boyce Avenue. Mar. 30 Saved by the ‘90s. Mar. 31 Pink Talking Fish. Apr. 1 A Boogie wit da Hoodie. Apr. 5 Saabrina Benaim. Apr. 10 Camilo Septimo. Apr. 11 Josh Abbott Band. Apr. 12 Ben Rector. Apr. 13 World of Dance OC. Apr. 19 Aaron Watson. 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.778.2583, houseofblues.com Map I10 IRVINE BARCLAY THEATRE Mar. 1 Vocalist Diego el Cigala. Mar. 8 UCI Symphony Orchestra. Mar. 10 Mozart Classical Orchestra. Mar. 14 Dee Dee Bridgewater with Memphis Soulphony. Mar. 16 4 Girls 4. Mar. 17 David Gonzalez’s The Frog Bride. Mar. 20 Malpaso Dance Company. Mar. 21 Hawaiian vocalist Henry Kapono and Dukes on Sunday Band. Mar. 23-24 Festival Ballet Theatre, Sleeping Beauty. Mar. 25 Irvine Unified School District Jazz Night. Mar. 27 Enchantment Theatre Company, The Phantom Tollbooth. Mar. 28 Iranian musician-composer Mohsen Namjoo. Mar. 29 Vocalist
W California’s largest ice skating facility, Great Park Ice, opens at Orange County Great Park in Irvine. The Anaheim Ducks will practice there. p. 46 44
SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
COURTESY THE RANCH
THE GUIDE
ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS
FIddler on the Roof at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Mar. 1 Violinist-looper Joe Kye. Mar. 3 Kingston Trio. Mar. 8 Saxophonist Joe Lovano Nonet. Mar. 10 Colburn@Soka with violinist Aubree Oliverson. Mar. 29 Pascuala Ilabaca and her band Fauna. Mar. 31 Pacific Symphony, pianist Conrad Tao. Apr. 3 Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Apr. 4 Uptown Jazz Orchestra, trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis. Apr. 14 Pianist Piotr Anderszewski. Soka University of America, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4278, soka.edu Map E6
SPORTS John Pizzarelli. Mar. 30 Vocalist Kathy Mattea. Apr. 5-6 Chorus group MenAlive. Apr. 13 Vocalist Sutton Foster. Apr. 18 Tower of Power. Apr. 26 Virtuoso Tomáš Kubínek. Apr. 27 Christian McBride Big Band. May. 3 Celebrate Music at UCI. May 4 AcaLove: A Cappella Festival. May 11-12 Opera UCI, Die Fledermaus. May 22 Backhausdance. UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, thebarclay.org Map K14
ANGEL STADIUM Apr. 4-7 Los Angeles of Angels of Anaheim vs. Rangers. Apr. 8-10 Angels vs. Brewers. Apr. 18-21 Angels vs. Mariners. Apr. 22-25 Angels vs. Yankees. Apr. 30-May 2 Angels vs. Blue Jays. May 4-5 Angels vs. Astros. May 17-19 Angels vs. Royals. May 20-22 Angels vs. Twins. May 24-26 Angels vs. Rangers. 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, 714.940.2000, losangeles.angels.mlb.com Map I9
MUSCO CENTER FOR THE ARTS Mar. 3 Guitarist Manuel Barrueco. Mar. 8 Chapman Orchestra. Mar. 9 Pacific Chorale. Mar. 10 Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band. Mar. 14 Scottish Music Tattoo & Parade. Apr. 12 and 14 Opera Chapman. Apr. 17 Actor-singer Alan Cumming, Legal Immigrant. Apr. 18 University Wind Symphony. Apr. 23 Chapman University Big Band and Jazz Combo with saxophonist Rickey Woodard. May 3-4 Chapman University Dance. May 11 Sholund Scholarship Concert. Chapman University, 1 University Drive, Orange, 844.626.8726, muscocenter.org Map B4
HONDA CENTER Mar. 1 Anaheim Ducks vs. Golden Knights. Mar. 3 Ducks vs. Avalanche. Mar. 6 Ducks vs. Blues. Mar. 8 Ducks vs. Canadiens. Mar. 10 Ducks vs. Kings. Mar. 12 Ducks vs. Predators. Mar. 17 Ducks vs. Panthers. Mar. 20 Ducks vs. Jets. Mar. 22 Ducks vs. Sharks. Mar. 28, 30 NCAA West Regional. Apr. 3 Ducks vs. Flames. Apr. 5 Ducks vs. Kings. 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500, hondacenter.com Map I11
THE OBSERVATORY Mar. 1 Saves the Day, Remo Drive, Mighty. Mar. 1 Bryce Vine. Mar. 2 Om, Emel Mathlouthi. Mar. 3 Unotheactivist. Mar. 4 Single Mothers. Mar. 5 Band of Horses. Mar. 6 Big Wild, Robotaki, Mild Minds. Mar. 7 RKCK & Shoffy. Mar. 9 Token. Mar. 11 Choker. Mar. 15 Yung Gravy. Mar. 15 Action Bronson. Mar. 16 Conan Gray. Mar. 16 Droeloe, Kidwaste, Tais. Mar. 21 Hot Flash Heat Wave, Vacations. Mar. 22 William Ryan Key. Mar. 23 Matt Nathanson. Mar. 26 BROODS. Mar. 28 Black Moth Super Rainbow. Mar. 28 Tommy Genesis. Mar. 29 Lil Tracy. Mar. 29 Wet x Kilo Kish, Helena. Apr. 2 The Movielife, Travis Shettel of Piebald. Apr. 5 Murs. Apr. 5 Dilly Dilly. Apr. 8 T-Pain. May 5 The Midnight. May 14 Jesse. 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, 714.957.0600, observatoryoc.com Map J12 SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Segerstrom Hall Mar. 6-23 Aladdin the Musical. Apr. 5 Comedian Brian Regan. Apr. 6 Israeli troupe Mayumana. Apr. 9-14. Cats. Apr. 16-28. Shen Yun. Apr. 30 Silkroad Ensemble. May 3 Dorrance Dance. May 7-19 Fiddler on the Roof. May 24-26 Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg. Opening May 28 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Mar. 6 Pianist Beatrice Rana. Mar. 15-16 Pacific Symphony, vocalist Leslie Odom Jr. Mar. 17 Phantom of the Opera, silent film accompanied by organist Dennis James. Mar. 21-23 Pacific Symphony, violinist Paul Huang. Mar. 24 Pacific Symphony, Persian New Year. Mar. 27 Tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain. Mar. 30 UnSung Heroes. Apr. 4 Australian Chamber Orchestra, violinist Richard Tognetti and pianist Paul Lewis. Apr. 5 Soprano Lea Salonga. Apr. 6 Havana Cuba All-Stars. Apr. 11-13 Pacific Symphony, pianist Juho Pohjonen. Apr. 13 Pacific Symphony and Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra. Apr. 16 Pacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale. Apr. 18 Pianist Murray Perahia. Apr. 26-27 Pacific Symphony and Queen tribute band Windborne. May 2-4 Pacific Symphony, guitarist Pable Villegas. May 5 Organist Hector Olivera. May 9 Violinist Joshua Bell, pianist Jeremy Denk and cellist Steven Isserlis. May 16-18 Pacific
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SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
ATTRACTIONS AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC One of the largest aquariums in the U.S.; highlights include Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest and ethereal sea jellies. Daily 9 am6 pm. $17.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map west of C1 BILLY BEEZ Slide, bounce, jump and run at indoor jungle- and bee-themed arena for kids and their families. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 657.207.4841 Map I10 CHRIST CATHEDRAL Architectural must-sees: Philip Johnson’s glass cathedral, Richard Neutra’s Tower of Hope, Richard Meier’s International Center for Positive Thinking. Tours M-Sa 10 am and 1 pm. Free. 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, 949.375.5763 Map J10 DISCOVERY CUBE Hands-on exhibits, shows in science center and Julianne Argyros Theater. Ongoing Mission Control; Helicopter Tour; Water Gallery; Science of Hockey. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95-$17.95, under 3 free. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.542.2823 Map G13 DISNEYLAND The only theme park completed under the direct supervision of Walt Disney. Main Street looks back with Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln; Tomorrowland looks to the future with Star Wars—a Star Warsthemed land is nearing completion. A mountain range of thrill rides includes Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain and Splash Mountain. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $97-$124, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Park ups the thrill ante with the Incredicoaster, highlight of the new four-neighborhood Pixar Pier area, and Guardians of the Galaxy—Mission: Breakout! The Soarin’ Around the World attraction and World of Color water-and-light show are as thrilling as ever. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $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 and new Ballast Point Brewing Co. and Salt & Straw ice cream. 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 more than 4,000 plant species set amid ponds and streams. Four main collections: Mediterranean, woodland, desert and cultivated. 8 am-4:30 pm. Free; $5 suggested donation. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 657.278.3407 Map A3 GO VR GAMING Virtual-reality arcade offers ingenious 3-D experiences that take you worlds away. Multiplayer programs, too. M-Th 3-10 pm, F 3-10:30 pm, Sa 1-10:30 pm, Su 1-10 pm. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.829.4189 Map I10 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions include a premier collection of coasters including 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 MEDIEVAL TIMES Dinner theater show with jousting knights, Purebred Spanish stallions, swordsmanship, falconry and four-course feast. $36.95-$61.95. 7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 866.543.9637 Map G8 MISSION ESCAPE GAMES Work as a team using subtle clues to escape from a locked room in less than 60 minutes. M-Th 3:30-10 pm, F-Sa 12:30-11 pm, Su 12:30-10 pm. Call for prices. Anaheim 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, 4 and under 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. Sa-Su 10 am-3 pm; tour Th-F 3:30 pm. $4.50-$6.50, under 3 free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274 Map J16 ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK Huge in-progress park. Tethered-balloon ride, $5-$10, under 18 free with accompanying adult. Carousel, $2. California’s largest ice skating facility, Great Park Ice, is new. Sand Canyon Avenue at Interstate 5, Irvine, 866.829.3829 Map D5 ORANGE COUNTY ZOO Rustic zoo; animals of the Southwest. M-F 10 am-3:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-4:30 pm. $2, under 3 free. Parking $3-$5. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.973.6847 Map C5 PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE Swordplay, pyrotechnics, comedy, 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 PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Interactive miniature city for children, infant to 8 years old. Tu-Sa 10 am-5 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm; M 10 am-1 pm. $12.50, under 1 free. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900 Map D5
JOAN MARCUS
Symphony. May 31 Pacific Symphony, The Music Man. Samueli Theater Mar. 9-10 Sunjata Kamalenya. Mar. 19 Fauré Quartett. Mar. 23 Jazz vocalist Catherine Russell. Mar. 30-31 Emily Brown and the Thing. Apr. 5 Third Coast Percussion. Apr. 11-13 Vocalist Aaron Lazar. May 14 Emerson String Quartet. May 19 Pacific Symphony chamber music, To Tell a Story. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, scfta.org Map J13
*Does not apply to food and retail locations. HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s19) ©2019 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 18-ADV-25988
ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS ORANGE COUNTY
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 pm; F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6 pm. $11-$16. 1300 Logan Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.556.7625 Map J12 SAFARI PARK Wildlife preserve with vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. $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, idyllic zoo. Attractions include the Crean Family Farm and Zoofari Express Train Ride. Daily 10 am-4 pm. $7-$10, under 3 free. 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, 714.836.4000 Map H14
RIDE TO
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
DAINESE ORANGE COUNTY 1645 Superior Ave Costa Mesa, CA 92627 +1 949-650-2300 d-store.orangecounty@dainese.com dstoreorangecounty
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. $1-$3, under 12 free. Free first Monday of the month. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.673.2261 Map M16
DAINESE ORANGE COUNTY
SPACES New. 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 SKY HIGH SPORTS 360 degrees of trampoline walls; free-bounce and dodgeball. $12 per hour. Call for hours. 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.437.5867 Map J13 VANS SKATEPARK Skateboard mecca with Vans store adjacent. Daily 10 am-10 pm. $12 weekdays; $15 weekends. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. West No. 2, Orange, 714.769.3800 Map J11
MUSEUMS BOWERS KIDSEUM High-tech, interactive museum for children with focus on ethnic arts and culture. Sa-Su 10 am-4 pm. $8, under 3 free. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600 Map G13 BOWERS MUSEUM World cultural arts and California exhibitions. Opening Mar. 9 Guo Pei: Couture Beyond. Ongoing Sacred Realms: Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan From the Gayle and Edward P. Roski Collection; Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands; Ancient Arts of Chiina: A 5000 Year Legacy. 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 Through Apr. 14 Dr. Entomo’s Palace of Exotic Wonders. 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 museum near the campus shows California images by 20thcentury artists. Through Apr. 27 Bay Area Scene Paintings. Tu-Sa 11 am-5 pm. Free. 167 N. Atchison St., Orange, 714.516.5880 Map J11
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ome to the Aquarium of the Pacific where you and your family can get in touch with nature and marine life, any time you want. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play. Over 11,000 animals await you. Don’t miss our 20th Anniversary Celebration.
562.590.3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802
SHOPPING HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERNATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM Board culture: exhibits on Duke Kahanamoku, classic surfboards, Endless Summer. TuSu noon-5 pm. $2. 411 Olive Ave., Huntington Beach, 714.465.4350 Map N8
VisitLagunaBeach com
SPRING Event Calendar Titi, Nunu, and Klembolo: Helena Modjeska’s Fairy Tale Book
Heisenberg
Harvey
Gay Pride Festival
Fete de la Musique
March 3 – May 27
March 27 – April 14
May 29 – June 16
May 31–June 2
June 15
lagunartmuseum.org
lagunaplayhouse.com
lagunaplayhouse.com
visitlagunabeach.com visitlagunabeach.com
It is a spring afternoon Laguna Beach Pride is In a bustling London The great Polish an annual celebration at the Dowd train station freeactress Helena in California’s family home when spirited American Modjeska (1840–1909), premiere gay Elwood P. Dowd Georgie unexpectedly best known for beach destination. starts to introduce plants a kiss on the performances in the Laguna Beach Pride his imaginary friend plays of Shakespeare, neck of mid-‘70s British welcomes locals Harvey, a six-and-abutcher Alex as he was a star of the and visitors alike to half-foot tall rabbit, sits on a bench at American stage in the participate in the to guests at his St Pancras Station. 1880s and ‘90s. In 1888 annual festivities, from sister Veta’s society And when she turns she and her husband beach parties and luncheon. Horrified up in his shop a few built a country home, Drag Bingo during that the embarrassing days later, she sets Arden, in what is the day to music and family secret is the suspicious man’s now Modjeska dance parties by now exposed, Veta world reeling. As Alex is Canyon in Orange night. This week-long decides to have drawn into Georgie’s County. Among her event celebrates the Elwood committed anarchic world, his many other talents, to a sanitarium, but a rich contribution of the conventional life Modjeska was a mistake is made when LGBTQ community to becomes chaotic, storyteller and artist. Laguna Beach. Veta is committed uncertain, and rather than Elwood. undeniably richer.
This free Laguna Beach celebration coincides with World Music Day. Fete de la Musique is based on an all-night celebration of music in France and takes place in various parts of the world each June. Visitors can enjoy free music concerts on the streets of downtown Laguna Beach and a performance by musicians and various artists on Main Beach.
LAGUNA ART MUSEUM California Impressionism and contemporary cultural art. Through May 27 SelfHelp Graphics, 1983-1991. Mar. 3-May 27 Titi, Nunu, and Klembolo: Helena Modjeska’s Fairy Tale Book; Centennial Gifts: Recent Additions to the Permanent Collection. M-Tu, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th 11 am-9 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 MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Exhibits at jewel of the California missions (1776). Swallows Walk and Talk Tour, daily 1 pm. Ongoing Legacy of Saint Serra Exhibit; Mission Treasures: Historical Collection Revealed; 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 OCMAEXPANDS-SANTA ANA Interim quarters for the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) until its new home is completed at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. South Coast Plaza Village, 1661 W. Sunflower Avenue, 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
@VisitLaguna
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 THE CAMP Enclave for outdoor enthusiasts includes eco store SEED People’s Market, 2nd Street for vintage clothing and Old Vine Kitchen + Bar. 2937 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 CORONA DEL MAR PLAZA Boutiques include Diane’s Beachwear, Gail Jewelers and Jack’s Surfboards. Plus Sprinkles Ice Cream. 800-984 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, 949.759.8687 Map M15 CRYSTAL COVE SHOPPING CENTER Ocean views amid Tuscan setting. Upscale boutiques Coastal Cool and Atelier 7918, fine dining including Bluefin and newly relocated Marché Moderne. 7845-8085 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Coast, 949.759.8687 Map M17 FASHION ISLAND Elegant open-air center, which recently marked its 50th anniversary, features anchors Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, new boutiques Zadig & Voltaire, St. John and Suitsupply, restaurants Sushi Roku and Fig & Olive. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, 949.721.2000 Map L15
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5 POINTS PLAZA Neighborhood center offers Loft, Vans, Charming Charlie jewelry, CloudMover Day Spa and Hashigo Sushi; barking lot for dogs! 18593 Main St., Huntington Beach, 5pointsplaza.com Map D2 IRVINE SPECTRUM CENTER Moorish-themed center includes Nordstrom, the nation’s most-visited movie complex, giant Ferris wheel and lots of restaurants
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GOLF including the new Helllo Kitty Grand Cafe, world’s first. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.753.5180 Map D5 THE LAB Youth-skewed boutiques, hip environment. Urban Outfitters, Eye Society and Crew Salon; dining includes Habana, Gypsy Den. 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.966.6661 Map J13 LIDO MARINA VILLAGE Elyse Walker, Sweaty Betty and Alchemy Works boutiques, Sugar Paper for luxe stationery, Le Labo for fragrance and Nobu and Lido Bottle Works restaurants at harbor-side village. 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 Stores at Spanishinspired oceanview center include Vans, Guess and new MadaLuxe Vault. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, outletsatsanclemente.com Map south of F6 PACIFIC CITY Center with beach views from every plaza, deck and patio. H&M, the Wearhouse, Francesca’s, West of Camden and Heirlooms & Hardware. 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.930.2345 Map N9 SOUTH COAST COLLECTION Design Within Reach midcentury showroom, Pirch for kitchen and bath, OC Mix for 30 vendors including the Mixing Glass for mixologists as well as unforgettable Taco María restaurant. 3303-3323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa Map J12 SOUTH COAST PLAZA The Ultimate Shopping Experience recently marked its 50th anniversary. Boutiques include new Furla and spectacularly redone Louis Vuitton. Macy’s Home Store and CB2 are in the Bear Street wing. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map J13
EATERTAINMENT ANAHEIM GARDENWALK Spectacular House of Blues plus Mission Escape Games, Go VR Gaming, Harley-Davidson boutique and Grasslands Meat Market, BBQ and Churrasco. 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.635.7410 Map I10 THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY Lifestyle destination offers impressively redone AMC theaters, Whole Foods Market, dining (the Winery, the Halal Guys) and curated dining and retail at Union Market (Hatch, Kettlebar, Portola Coffee, Central Bar). Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, Tustin, 714.259.9090 Map J14 DOWNTOWN DISNEY Twenty-acre complex adjacent to Disney theme parks includes Studio Disney 365, Catal restaurant, newly renovated Naples Ristorante, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and Splitsville Luxury Lanes. 1510-1590 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.300.7800 Map I10 THE TRIANGLE Keys on Main dueling pianos, Time nightclub, Costa Mesa 55 Tavern + Bowl, Starlight Cinemas plus restaurants La Vida Cantina and Black Knight Gastro Lounge. 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 $52, F $59, Sa-Su $70. Includes cart and GPS. Twilight rates available. 6501 E. Nohl Ranch Road, Anaheim, 714.998.3041 Map B5
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NIGHTLIFE BEN BROWN’S GOLF COURSE Picturesque nine-hole course in canyon with coastal breezes and 19 bunkers. M-Th $29, F $34, Sa-Su $38. 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.499.2271 Map I16
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
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
BLIND RABBIT Speakeasy with 1920s atmosphere hidden behind wall at Anaheim Packing House won the most awards (three) at the Golden Foodies. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, theblindrabbit.com Map H10
OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB Tapered fairways, bull-nose carved bunkers and picturesque greens on Tom Fazio course. M-Th $130, F-Su $175. Includes cart. 1 Golf Club Drive, Irvine, 949.653.5300 Map D5 PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB Two gorgeous 18-hole courses at the sumptuous Resort at Pelican Hill; virtually every hole has spectacular coastal views. $290 daily. 22701 Pelican Hill Road S., Newport Coast, 877.735.4226 Map L17 STRAWBERRY FARMS GOLF CLUB Eighteen-hole course features rolling greens, barn, canyon, wetland vistas and O.C.’s longest hole. M-Th $110, F-Su $160. 11 Strawberry Farms Road, Irvine, 949.551.1811 Map D5 TUSTIN RANCH GOLF CLUB Resort-style course designed by Ted Robinson. Challenging greens, palm trees and lakes, clubhouse. Private caddie service. M-Th $115, F $135, Sa-Su $165. Additional cart fee. 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, 714.730.1611 Map C5
ACTIVE OUTDOORS AIR COMBAT USA Dogfight training in highperformance small planes. Instructors handle takeoff and landing. Fullerton Municipal Airport, 3815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, 800.522.7590 Map A2 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 CA SURF ‘N’ PADDLE Year-round surfing and stand-up-paddleboard lessons. Free parking. 689 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.497.1423 Map H15 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH SURF LESSONS Schools include Endless Sun Surf, 949.533.1022; Newport Surf Camp, 866.787.3267; and Erik Nelsen Surf Camp, 949.464.0077. newportbeachca.gov Map D3 COUNTRY TRAILS AND RIDING SCHOOL Guided horseback rides among massive coast live oaks and California sycamores. Tu-Su. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714.538.5860 Map C5 ISLAND PADDLEBOARD Year-round surfing and stand-up-paddleboard lessons. Free parking. 229 Marine Ave., Balboa Island, 949.673.4280 Map M15 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
BLISS PHOTOGRAPHY
NIGHTLIFE A&O Waterfront Anchors & Oceans bar with gastropub fare. Remarkable new California Distilled cocktail program is entirely state-sourced. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4285 Map M14 AC LOUNGE Lobby bar at stylish new hotel. Swedish Fish aquavit cocktail; Hendrick’s Gin and Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic; and small bites. AC Hotel, Park Place, 3309 Michelson Drive, Irvine, 949.471.8710 Map J14
BOWLMOR Hip, state-of-the-art, glow-in-the-dark bowling lounge with sports bar and global cuisine. The District at Tustin Legacy, 2405 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.258.2695; Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.783.2810 Map D4, I10 THE BUNGALOW Expansive ocean views, sweeping decks, lush gardens, rustic interiors and seasonal bites by Bear Flag Fish Co. Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.374.0399 Map N9 CALAVINO WINE BAR Fine wines, craft beers and New American fare are offered near Angel Stadium. 2410 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.939.7735 Map I11 COLONY WINE MERCHANT Tasting lounge and wine retailer celebrates Anaheim’s wine history. 280 S. Lemon St., Anaheim, 657.208.1860 Map H10 COSTA MESA 55 TAVERN + BOWL State-of-the-art bowling alley, sports viewing, dining. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.438.2320 Map K12 THE FIFTH Rooftop venue offers craft cocktails, local beers, fine menu, live music and view of Disneyland fireworks. Grand Legacy at the Park, 1650 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.772.0899 Map I10 HIVE & HONEY Stylish, sprawling rooftop bar with 360-degree urban views and tastefully honey-inspired 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 Each night, two performers will play on baby grand pianos, with songs requested by the audience. Shows Th-Sa (nightly). The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.619.9850 Map K12 LOLA GASPAR Ever-hip bar and excellent kitchen in the heart of the Artist Village in downtown Santa Ana is arguably the area’s best. 211 W. 2nd St., Santa Ana, 714.972.1172 Map H13 LUCKY STRIKE LANES Retro-cool bowling lounge with DJ. The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd., Orange, 714.937.5263 Map J11 MARINE ROOM TAVERN Laid-back bar; live rock and blues on weekends. 214 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.494.3027 Map H15 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 New. The county’s highest coastal rooftop lounge has ocean views. 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
Rodrigo Valenzuela: American Type at OCMAExpandsSanta Ana
SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND LOUNGE Super-stylish spot, ideal for pre- or post-theater cocktails. 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, 714.442.8593 Map J13 SPLITSVILLE LUXURY LANES New. Twenty bowling lanes on two floors overlooking Downtown Disney; live music daily. 1530 S. Disneyland Dirve, Anaheim, 657.276.2440 Map I10 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 distinctive domed building presents musical acts and big-name DJs. The Triangle, 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7103 Map K12 TOPSIDE ROOF DECK New. It’s “collared shirts preferred at the city’s only rooftop bar, atop the new beach-house-chic Lido House Hotel. 3300 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.524.8500 Map N13 TREEHOUSE Stylish rooftop lounge atop Tanner’s restaurant has stylish cocktails to match, an elaborate tree sculpture and ocean views. Paséa Hotel, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130 Map N9 WINE LAB Wine/cheese tasting room and store at hip outdoors-themed center. The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.905.9521 Map J13
TOURS + TRANSPORT AMTRAK Train service to destinations throughout California daily. Stops in Fullerton, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com ANAHEIM REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INTERMODAL CENTER (ARTIC) Spectacular architecture. Metrolink and Amtrak trains, OCTA buses, Anaheim Resort Transportation, shuttles, taxis and charter buses. There’s also an oyster bar. 1750 S. Douglass Road, Anaheim, 877.99.ARTIC, articinfo.com ANAHEIM RESORT TRANSPORTATION (ART) Shuttles cover 19 routes with transfers to Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk and Anaheim Convention Center. Purchase passes online, at Amtrak station and at select hotels. 888.364.2787, rideart.org CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE SAFARI Catamaran with underwater viewing pod. Departures daily. Also, sunset safaris and occasional Catalina Island trips.$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
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TOURS + TRANSPORT 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 WHALE-WATCHING AND SPORTFISHING Sportfishing, whale-watching, twilight wine cruises, corporate parties 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, boat rentals, entertainment cruises. Charters half day, full day, overnight. Balboa Pavilion, 400 Main St., Newport Beach, 949.673.1434, daveyslocker.com Map N15 EXECUCAR Luxury service. Sedan and SUV, flat rates, special group services, frequent-flyer points and miles with select airlines. 800.410.4444, execucar.com
ON DISPLAY NOW
HORNBLOWER CRUISES Luxury party yachts. F-Sa dinner-dance cruises, Sa-Su champagne brunch. Mariner’s Mile Marina, 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.646.0155, hornblower.com Map M13 JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT Gateway to O.C., superior to LAX in ambiance and ease of process. 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 Train system connects to San Diego, L.A.; stops in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo, Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton and Buena Park. $10 weekend day pass (Sa-Su) for rails and public transportation. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com ONTARIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Budding international hub 40 miles northeast of John Wayne Airport and Disneyland. 2500 E. Airport Drive, Ontario, 909.544.5300, flyontario.com Map northeast of A6 RIVA DE BALBOA Classic wooden boats for rent. Food and drink with prior notice. 504 S. Bay Front, Newport Beach, 949.202.6469, rivadebalboa.com Map N14 TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Two-hour tour of celebrity hot spots in Hollywood and Beverly Hills and on the Sunset Strip aboard state-of-the-art bus. 844.TMZ.TOUR (844.869.8687), tmztour.com
TICKETS BARRY’S TICKET SERVICE Premium and hard-to-get tickets for local and national events. 675 Paularino Ave., Costa Mesa, 714.751.9800 Map J12 714 TICKETS Sporting events, shows and concerts, opposite Honda Center. Local delivery. 2620 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.842.5387, 714tickets.com Map I11
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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE
Pour-your-own craft beers and wines at new Pickled Monk gastropub in Fullerton. p. 34 The vintage handbags at 2nd Street at the Camp in Costa Mesa. 949.274.8585 The Doheny Blues Festival at Dana Point in May. p. 44 The Hokkaido uni pasta—see the uni above—at new Omakase by Gino in Santa Ana. p. 37
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Neiman Marcus LastCall at The Outlets at Orange. p. 50 MadaLuxe Vault at Outlets at San Clemente. p. 50 Indoor climbing at Sender One Climbing in Santa Ana. 714.881.3456 Concerts at Chapman University’s Musco Center for the Arts in Orange. p. 46
New Lovisa jewelry at Irvine Spectrum Center. 810.202.7417
The immersive virtual-reality experience at new Spaces at Irvine Spectrum Center. p. 48
Hash fries with osetra caviar at new Harley Laguna Beach. p. 32
The weekend bloody mary— a meal in itself—at Tackle Box in Costa Mesa. p. 41
Golden Goose Deluxe Brand shoes at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. 657.212.5453
Anaheim Ducks ice-hockey games at the Honda Center in Anaheim. p. 46
The view from the bench atop beautiful Valido Trail in South Laguna. p. 12
New McClain Cellars wine and olive oil tasting room in Laguna Beach. p. 51
where in the world
WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,
56 SOCALPULSE.COM SPRING 2019
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Blü Nail Bar and Spa at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. 949.219.9888
Innovative Sidecar Doughnuts in Costa Mesa. 949.873.5424
The unusual decor at Ruin Bar at the Lab in Costa Mesa. 714.884.3189
Orange County Museum of Art’s OCMAExpands-Santa Ana at South Coast Village. p. 49
The ponds, streams and 4,000 plant species at Fullerton Arboretum. p. 46
The Southern Samurai sandwich at Buttermilk Fried Chicken in Orange. p. 41
Bubble experience BubblePOP at the District in Tustin. 949.529.8078
Unusual ice-cream flavors at new Salt & Straw at Downtown Disney in Anaheim. 714.855.4321
New Ballast Point Brewery & Kitchen at Downtown Disney in Anaheim. 714.687.9813
Fashions at new Lovebird boutique, inside Union Market at the District in Tustin. p. 22
Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar, abloom in spring. p. 48
Pour-your-own Mexican-style beers at new Chihuahua Cerveza in Newport Beach. 949.771.8226
New Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge at the Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach. p. 51
The Zoofari Express Train Ride at the Santa Ana Zoo. p. 48
New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg
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