Lobster Challenge

January 4 – February 28, 2012

$25.95

Who will win? Chef Pascal Olhats has challenged his chefs at Brasserie Pascal, Savannah Chophouse, and French 75 to prepare their best lobster dish. PICK UP YOUR PASSPORT AND BEGIN! You be the judge!! Patty Mitchell and I accepted the challenge  just so we could give you a peek at each chef’s dish:

First up,  Brasserie Pascal’s Lobster Bouillabaisse:

Next, Savannah Chophouse’s Boiled Lobster with Cappelini and Lemon Buerre Blanc Sauce:

Third and final stop on our lobster journey, French 75′s Lobster Duo: Lobster Thermidor with Crispy Lobster Ravioli:

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS: Pick up a Passport to Maine at your first restaurant and get stamped for each Challenge dish you try. When you have two stamps, you are eligible to vote for your favorite and enter to win our Voter Prize– a two night stay at the Retreat in Laguna, plus dinner for two at one of our three restaurants.

If you choose to go to the final restaurant, you will receive a complimentary wine pairing with your third Lobster Challenge dinner, and a second entry into our voter prize drawing. When your passport is complete, vote, then turn it in and you’re entered to win.

♥ So join us in the Lobster Challenge and make February the month of Love and Lobster! ♥

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Dim sum, private dining, banquet seating, and traditional Chinese specialties to please even the most discerning palate, Capital Seafood has it all. Now, with two restaurants in Irvine; one at Diamond Jamboree and the newest in Irvine Spectrum, Orange County lovers of dim sum and Chinese cuisine are very happy to have Capital Seafood right in their backyard.

As Capital’s website says, Chinese people love to eat and they love to eat in large groups with an abundance of food. This is especially true during the two week Chinese New Year celebrations.  The Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year and Spring Festival, is next Monday, January 23, 2012. This is the 4710th lunar year and the Year of the Dragon, festivities begin on January 22nd, the eve of the new year, and culminate with the Lantern Festival on February 6th.

Striking artwork, vibrant touches of modernist lighting and nods to traditional Asian motifs create a lively ambiance at Capital Seafood with casual dining inside or outdoor patio seating beneath swaying red lanterns as well as flex space to accommodate private dining and banquets for  special occasions. Recently, a group of us were hosted by James Tea of Capital Seafood, with the help of Marian Bacol-Uba, for a banquet style tasting event featuring 11 of their most popular specialty dishes.

Our meal began with Whole Winter Melon Soup with Assorted Seafood impressively presented and served from the steamed whole winter melon. The flavorful broth contained an abundance of crab meat, shrimp, scallops and squid so every spoonful brought pleasures of the sea with the mild, sweet taste of soft melon.  I learned that Winter Melon Soup is often featured at Asian banquets, and I can totally see why.

Tender Filet Mignon Satay Skewers brushed with a sweet sauce bearing hints of lemongrass and the Assorted Dim Sum Platter of fried vegetable eggrolls, crab wontons,  shrimp with sugar cane, butterfly shrimp, along with steamed sui mai and chicken potstickers followed. Platters of finger foods are always a great way to satisfy your appetite while sipping a cocktail or chilled glass of wine or beer leading up to the main attractions and both these selections are very kid-friendly.

The Roasted Peking Duck was just as it should be:  bites of savory, moist meat with a delightful crunch of crispy skin enveloped in plump, doughy bao (buns) topped with scallions and a swath of smoky hoisin sauce. I prefer a lighter bun, but really I just enjoyed having Peking Duck – there are many dishes that are meant to be shared and since I rarely dine with this many people at a Chinese restaurant I don’t have the opportunity to order them.

You don’t want to miss the House Special Lobster with E-Mein Noodles. As you can see, chock full of lobster in a rich, garlicky brown sauce  with scallions and a bit of heat from  jalapenos. Rather than noodles, I think the richness of the sauce calls for a bowl of steamed rice to soak up all that unctuous flavor.

Capital’s Filet Mignon Cubes in a buttery, garlic sauce – again, give me a bowl of rice, a few filet cubes topped with a juicy red tomato wedge and call it dinner! Did I mention that there were 15 of us sharing this feast?

The ubiquitous Honey Glazed Walnut Shrimp is a mainstream favorite – the sweet crunchy walnuts are always good and  the honeydew and cantaloupe melon balls served alongside worked well to balance the mayo based sauce – kind of like Asian style ambrosia.

And, of course, House String Beans. By this time I was really craving a vegetable, and another bowl of rice But seriously, who doesn’t like the blistered-skin Chinese style green beans coated with garlic sauce and a touch of spicy heat? No dinner is complete without them.

The Pan Seared Seabass was the absolute highlight of the evening. Striking in its simplicity, I appreciated the light sweet soy sauce and simple steamed broccoli after all the rich dishes that preceded it. I would definitely order this again, and I’m sure it would be just as delicious using a more sustainable fish.

But wait, there’s more. Here’s the bowl of rice that I needed, except this is the Chef’s Fried Rice filled with shrimp, scallops, squid, crabmeat, eggwhites, dried scallops, and garnished with carrots and nori flakes (Japanese seaweed).

Beautiful to behold and not too sweet, the Almond Cream Souffle is the perfect grand finale to your Chinese New Year celebratory dinner. My friend Anita who hails from Hong Kong shared with me that this lovely dessert is an almond “tea” usually served as a sweet soup at the end of the meal. Capital Seafood’s rendition is an almond soup with ginko nut and diced water chestnuts and adorned with a cap of puff pastry.

For the vegetarians and health conscious among us, I returned to Capital Seafood for lunch one day to try some heart healthy and vegetarian options – guilt-free, delicious and satisfying on their own or as a complement or lighter alternative to any of the dishes above.

♥ Green Papaya Shrimp Salad ♥

crunchy and refreshing with a bright acidity that cleanses the palate

♥ Emperor’s Garden – Fried Silken Tofu with Three Mushrooms ♥

tofu with a crispy exterior and silken centers reminiscent of flan with three varieties of mushrooms

Happy New Year (新年快樂)

Capital Seafood

at Irvine Spectrum

85 Fortune Drive, #320

Irvine, CA  92618

(949) 788-9218

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After a whirlwind weekend in New York City, Don jetted off to Paris – on business, really – and I to Arkansas for a visit with my mom. His being in Paris reminded me of Le Sâotico , a charming brasserie, practically next door to his office on the rue de Richelieu, that has to be one of the best dining values in all of Paris. AND, if you are vegetarian or have gluten free, dairy free, low sodium or any other dietary restrictions, it’s a phenomenal find!

Our first experience at Le Sâotico was a business dinner with several French clients. Arranged by Muriel who orchestrates all international operations and leaves no detail, including Don’s dietary needs, unattended; owners Anne Surcouf and Chef Hugues  Gournay were keenly aware of Don’s low sodium requirements and his dishes were as meticulously prepared and executed as the selections described on the blackboard menu.

Their changing blackboard menu offers a fine selection of classic French dishes and Anne patiently translated into English and explained and described each one. Don and I both chose the salmon quenelles; creamy and superbly fresh with a dash of bright citrus and crisp butter lettuce offering a contrast to the soft richness of the salmon.

Another guest ordered the escargot with mushrooms and a light cream sauce(above). Not your usual presentation, he was somewhat surprised and may have preferred the more classic escargot served with a butter and garlic sauce, but I was smitten with their interpretation and found myself wishing I had ordered the snails!

As the evening progressed, I became increasingly impressed with their fresh, modern interpretations of classic French fare. Take the Duck l’Orange with potatoes gratin for instance:

Anne suggested magrets de canard (duck breast) for Don and Chef Hugues fashioned the crisp, roasted duck breast with vivid, flavorful orange segments (a la duck l’orange) and boiled new potatoes.

Of course I was the last to order and finally decided on the scallops. Paired with a delicate, perfectly al dente leek risotto and a delightful light cream sauce, nearly as frothy as a foam and certainly unlike (better than) any Coquille St. Jacques I’ve ever had.

There were 10 of us and it was a business dinner, so I was low key with the food paparazzi, but after chatting about the merits of Sancerre with the young man across from me I felt comfortable asking to photograph his Duck Confit:

Mental note to self: order the duck confit the next time I’m at Le Saotico, which will be in June when blustery winter temps won’t deter me from exploring. I wonder what Don is having tonight?

Located on Rue Richelieu in the financial district (2nd arr) and surrounded by banks and other financial companies, Le Saotico has a healthy lunch business. Hugues and Anne feel that dining should be a total experience of the senses, jazzy or Latin beats caress your ears and no matter where you’re seated (downstairs in the bar or bistro area or upstairs dining room), artwork, artifacts and homey touches adorn the walls and catch your eye. The cozy bar area boasts a full bar of spirits, an extensive, reasonably-priced wine list and wines by the glass offering, it’s ideal for a business or casual lunch or after hours cocktails.

Intrigued by this engaging English-speaking French couple with their extensive knowledge of special diets, I asked if I could come back the next day and interview them during the quieter hours before dinner. Turns out that Anne and Hugues owned and operated Le Reminet, a well known and popular little restaurant in the Latin Quarter. They sold Le Reminet to focus on their family life but after a few years Hugues couldn’t resist the insistent urge to cook and create that dwells in the heart of culinary artists.  For their second restaurant, they chose the name Le Sâotico which recalls the tiny gray shrimp found in the waters off the coast of their native Normandy.

Le Sâotico was born out of Anne’s gluten and dairy allergies and their disappointment and frustration with the lack of options available to them when they went out to restaurants. Hugues culinary training also included a designation for nutrition which, from what Anne told me, is similar to a Registered Dietician in the U.S. People with dietary restrictions know full well that it becomes easier to cook and eat at home and once you find a restaurant that is able to cater to your needs and your discerning palate, you dine there exclusively. That is exactly what Le Sâotico is to us when we are in Paris, food allergies or not, I highly recommend the experience to you as well.

Le Sâotico

96 rue Richelieu, 2nd

Tel. 33 (0) 1-42-96-03-20

Metro: Bourse or Richelieu-Drouot

Other reviews you might find of interest:

Zagat

Hungry for Paris

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Sports fans rejoice! The highly anticipated Anaheim Ducks Bar & Grill is now open at John Wayne Airport. Finally, a space full of flat screen TVs, adorned with Ducks’ hockey memorabilia, pucks and helmets where you can feel right at home. Don’t expect Stanley Cup champion and All Star right winger Corey Perry (above) to serve your appetizers, but there’s much to please your palate and your need for adrenaline sports while waiting for that final boarding call.

Located post security in the newly-opened Terminal C (servicing Southwest and Frontier Airlines) near Gate 18,  the Anaheim Ducks Breakaway Bar & Grill is a joint effort between HMSHost, a world leader in travel dining and shopping, and the Anaheim Ducks. The restaurant pays homage to first hockey team to bring the Stanley Cup – hockey’s ultimate prize – to southern California and is  the first restaurant at John Wayne Airport with a runway view. Ducks owner Susan Samueli was joined by 2007 Stanley Cup champions Corey Perry and Scott Niedermayer as well as airport, HMSHost, and Anaheim Ducks VIPs for the ribbon cutting,

Speeches were followed by tray passed small tastes and samples from the non-alcoholic drink selection. We quenched our thirst with the Ginger Swizzle, a refreshing blend of ginger ale, mint, and lime. Other beverage choices available at the Breakaway Bar & Grill include draft and bottled beer, wines by the glass, and hand crafted signature cocktails. The “Punch in the Nose” (Stoli, Pama, red berries, and Red Bull) could be the caffeine boost you’re seeking before an early morning departure, rather than standing in line for coffee at Starbucks or McDonald’s.

Ginger Swizzle with charcuterie taste

While only limited items were available for tasting at the grand opening, the menu offers travelers a broad selection of choices, from spicy wings appetizers or a charcuterie plate, to a selection of four flatbread pizzas and three salads.  Personally, I’m super excited about having alternatives to my standard airport Egg McMuffin breakfast and looking forward to savoring a short stack of Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes or Chilaquiles from their breakfast menu and hubby can stay healthy with the Steel Cut Oatmeal topped with toasted almonds and dried cranberries!

The Charcuterie taste was just that: tiny bites of Serrano ham, speck, salami, brightened with pickled onion, a rosemary olive, dot of fig jam with toasted raisin pecan bread was de rigueur and didn’t distinguish itself from other meat plates but would pair well with an icy cold Stella Artois on tap. Also from the appetizer menu, the Shrimp Tacos: soft corn tortillas filled with plump, perfectly-cooked shrimp with pasilla chiles, caramelized onion, cilantro, queso fresco, and avocado crema, offered an abundance of flavors and a healthy choice for travelers.

The Stacked Ribeye Sandwich was served as a slider (with and without cheese) during the grand opening festivities. Having all the necessary components of a robust steak sandwich: slices of tender choice ribeye with pink centers, melted Tillamook cheddar, crispy onion strings, and applewood smoked bacon with a smattering of BBQ sauce was further enhanced by a buttery brioche bun, grilled for a pleasing crispiness – no soggy buns here.

Serving breakfast (until 10:30 a.m.), lunch, and dinner, the restaurant has thoughtfully included a kids’ menu and specialty non-alcoholic drinks besides soda to attract sports fans and families looking for a comfortable place to watch the game and enjoy a great meal while waiting for your flight. Next time you’re at John Wayne, make a break for it and check out the action on and off the runway. Yes, those are real hockey pucks and the decorated helmets are for sale with proceeds going to charity.

Safe travels and Happy Holidays!

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Irvine Spectrum is hot, hot, hot right now with three highly anticipated openings: Capital Seafood, Cucina Enoteca and Paul Martin’s American Grill. Being Friday and bubbling with holiday cheer, I’m switching gears and inviting you to kick start the weekend with me at Paul Martin’s Happy Hour.

Of all the gin joints (err, shopping malls)  in the state, demographics directed Brian Bennett and restaurateur Paul Fleming (the man behind Fleming’s Steakhouse and the P.F. in P.F. Changs) to select Irvine as the location for their third Paul Martin restaurant (following the success of Paul Martin’s in Roseville and El Segundo), expanding their “long-nurtured dream to create the restaurant we’ve always wished was in our neighborhood”.

“Eat organic. Believe in sustainable. Buy local.” is the mantra of Paul Martin’s and, as much as possible, that’s what they aim to deliver, and at accessible prices, with plates priced mostly between $10 and $22. Realizing that organic, sustainable, and buying local are overused terms, Executive Chef Brian Bennett emphasizes they not only talk the talk, but walk the walk. They believe that at the heart of all great food is fresh, local, peak of the season ingredients and they aim to take diners back to the farm with meat raised in a humane and wholesome way, locally sourced organic produce, the best of both wild and farmed fish, artisan cheeses and cured meats from small local purveyors.

I was among a group of Orange County food writers, bloggers, and Yelpers invited for a “Taste of Paul Martin” to sample their Happy Hour small plates and handcrafted cocktails and I’m happily reporting that Paul Martin’s mantra is being successfully carried out even during the hours of 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 3:00 – 6:00 Saturday and Sunday. The quality and freshness of the food was evident and I think you’ll be more than happy with the price AND the refreshing array of small plates, wine by the glass, and handcrafted cocktails. Thankfully, Happy Hour doesn’t mean chafing dishes of fried foods, frozen meatballs, and skimpy tacos anymore!

Meyer Lemon Drop house infused meyer lemon vodka, cointreau and a sugared rim

The restaurant interior is both comfortable and sophisticated with the kind of modern-rustic feel achieved by combining old brick, wood, zinc, polished concrete floors, soft lighting and sit-and-stay-awhile furnishings. The bar area is sleek and spacious with ample seating at the bar and high tables. We were welcomed to the patio lounge area – lined with wicker and fabric couches with plump pillows, large ottomans, and floor to ceiling linen drapery, the room exudes casual California elegance.

Wine, drinks and small plates are priced at either $4.00 or $8.00. In keeping with local sourcing, all wines, including those offered at Happy Hour are heavily weighted toward California regions with a few selections from Oregon. We started by trying three of the cocktails from the $4.00 list.

The Meyer Lemon drop, with its refreshing presentation, and Classic Mojito got a thumbs up. Several of us gave the Raspberry Martini, lovely as it was garnished with fresh raspberries but tasting oddly like cough syrup, a thumbs down. The wine selections for $4.00 were Shenandoah and Parducci sustainable wines, at $8.00 were Rodney Strong, Chamisal and ETC. The wine selections will change with availability as menu items do with the seasons.

Classic Mojito silver rum, muddled fresh mint, lime and cane syrup with a soda float

Paul Martin Raspberry Martini house infused raspberry vodka, lemon juice and sweet vermouth

The overall favorite cocktail of the night was the Champagne Lemonade, recommended by our friendly and knowledgeable server.

Soon after the first round of cocktails were delivered, the small plates began arriving, Small plates offered at $4.00 are:

Smoked Chicken & Wings chopped bite-size, served with housemade pesto slaw

Maple Cider All Natural Grilled Chicken Skewers 3 served with tomato and olive salsa

Smoked Salmon Lettuce Cups house creamed salmon, sliced apples

Street Tacos shredded beef, homemade corn tortillas

What was outstanding about all four of these small plates was the freshness of the ingredients and the subtle flavors – a little too subdued (the skewers) for some of us. Each dish is paired with a bright flavor, crunchy textural component: pesto slaw with the chicken, a briny, salty caper salsa with the chicken skewers , sliced apples with the creamed salmon, and slivers of radish and chopped onions on the street tacos. Favorites were the smoked chicken and street tacos – the wings had a subdued smoky flavor and we were impressed by the tender shredded beef and homemade tortillas. The “Brick” chicken available on the dinner menu is from Pittman Family Farms, and I assume the chicken small plates are too, but I didn’t confirm this.

Small plates offered at $8.00 included:

Mesquite Grilled Steak Skewers arugula and pineapple salsa

Slow Cooked St. Louis Style Pork Ribs with housemade carolina slaw

Buttermilk Crispy Fried Chicken and Fries

The skewers and ribs were tender and well prepared. Again, what stood out for me was the fresh component with every meat: the acidity of the pineapple balanced the rich beef and creamy remoulade sauce as did the vinegary Carolina slaw to the pork ribs. She’s Cookin’ focuses on heart healthy recipes and dining options, so I appreciate this thoughtful detail, especially when it comes to Happy Hour food. Only the buttermilk fried chicken seemed lacking in execution – the batter was slightly burnt and didn’t adhere well to the chicken – the fries, however, were perfect and were quickly gobbled down.

All thing considered, if you’re seeking a respite from your busy day and appreciate a bit more upscale Happy Hour in a relaxing, casually elegant environment, I highly recommend checking out Paul Martin’s at the Irvine Spectrum, if you haven’t already!

Paul Martin’s American Grill
Irvine Spectrum Center
31 Fortune Drive Suite 302
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 453-1144

Titled photos, courtesy of Albert Evangelista Photography.

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This pastrami waffle sandwich was like a “I’ll have what she’s having”, Harry Met Sally moment, only I wasn’t in Katz Deli, but the new Bruxie in Brea Downtown. Lean, not-too salty, Boar’s Head pastrami sandwiched between a light, crispy waffle balanced with lightly-dressed crunchy cole slaw and the zing of whole grain mustard. It’s been several weeks  and I’m craving another!

If you live and dine in Orange County, you’ve heard about Bruxie in Old Towne Orange and, hopefully, have experienced at least a few of their gourmet sweet and savory waffle sandwiches. The phenomenal success of this unique waffle concept, brain child of Chefs, Partners and concept creators, Dean Simon, Kelly Mullarney, and Philippe Caupain, was the catalyst for opening a second location, exactly one year later, in Brea Downtown.

Lemon Cream with seasonal berries

Planning the opening date of the second Bruxie on the anniversary of the first, was their way of saying thank you to Orange County and loyal Bruxie fans and seen as a significant and necessary step for their brand, according to Dean Simon, Managing Partner of Bruxie.

The Bruxie menu features two types of Belgian waffles: the Brussels waffle is a light, crispy, yeast waffle used in all the Bruxie sandwiches – it is not sweet and when cooked, its yeast aroma is reminiscent of freshly baked bread. The Liege waffle, is a more dense, sweet waffle, with Belgian-pearl sugar baked into it. Bruxie fans have over a dozen savory sandwiches to choose from, dessert waffles to satisfy their sweet tooth, salads of local sourced produce, locally produced old-fashioned cane sugar sodas, real Wisconsin frozen custard, shakes, sundaes and floats – and nothing on the menu exceeds $10.

Pumpkin Spice Shake (seasonal special)

Dean Simon and Kelly Mullarney  talked with our group of food writers on Friends and Family night – their excitement is contagious and their commitment to sourcing locally as much as possible and using the finest ingredients available is real (Michel Cordon Bleu smoked salmon, Callebaut 60% Belgium chocolate, the finest Wisconsin custard). The waffle sandwiches, salads, sodas, shakes, and desserts definitely reveal the secret of their continued success and popularity.

I opened with the Hot Pastrami Bruxie (Hot Pastrami Bruxie – Boar’s Head Pastrami with Gruyere, Cider Slaw, Spicy Brown Mustard & Half Sour Pickles) – hands down, the best pastrami “sandwich” I’ve had in recent years – that said, I don’t order them often because I’m usually disappointed, plus, while they score high on the taste meter, they score low on the healthy meter – but a girl’s gotta indulge now and then to keep the chi in balance

But of course, Chicken and Waffles is listed first on the menu – the popular savory waffle combination favored by waffle lovers old (Roscoe’s in LA anyone) and new:

Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Waffle – Chili Honey & Cider Slaw

Turkey Club – Boar’s Head Roasted Turkey, Gruyere, Avocado, Applewood Smoked Bacon & Pesto Aioli

Bruxie Salad – Grilled Chicken, Romaine & Arugula, Mushrooms, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Avocado, Lemon Vinaigrette & Balsamic Reduction

Outstanding flavors and freshness – a winning ♥ Heart Healthy ♥ option

The Bruxie Brea location also mirrors the retro drive-in charm of the wildly popular Old Towne Orange location with roll-up steel garage doors, painted reclaimed wood and bold graphics, but with three uptown improvements:

1. free structure parking!
2. bathrooms!!
3. indoor seating!!!

Albacore Tuna Melt – With Cheddar Cheese, Crisp Lettuce & Tomatoes
another great ♥Heart Healthy♥ option

Grilled Chicken Caesar – the edible Parmesan Waffle Bowl makes this salad!

Carolina BBQ Pulled Pork – Slow-Roasted Pork, Cheddar Cheese, Cider Slaw and Bruxie’s own BBQ Sauce

Let’s not forget the Callebaut Belgian Chocolate I mentioned earlier!

Chocolate Covered Banana w/Peanuts Shake

Chocolate-Filled Liege Waffle (Bruxie’s Liege with caramelized pearl sugar filled with dark Belgian chocolate)

 So seize the moment! Do a little holiday shopping, see a movie, and savor the waffle! I know I’ll be trekking up to Old Towne soon for a breakfast waffle of Smoked Salmon & Dill Cream Cheese, now that I know it’s Michel Cordon Bleu smoked salmon!

Bruxie

Birch Street Promenade in Brea Downtown

215 W. Birch Street

(714) 255-1188

and

292 North Glassell

Old Town Orange

(714) 633-3900

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Memphis at the Santora in the Artists Village, the creative heart of Santa Ana’s downtown, is the second location for The Memphis Group and continues their vision of revitalizing emerging areas (applause) and delivering innovative cuisine grounded in American comfort food and traditional Southern favorites. Opening in 2002 with a larger kitchen and more seating than it’s sister, Memphis Cafe in Costa Mesa, co-founder and executive chef Diego Velasco covers a wider range of Southern specialties in addition to the original Memphis favorites: buttermilk fried chicken, southern meatloaf and cornmeal fried catfish.

As a fan of mid-century modern design and an art enthusiast, the retro, funky decor of Memphis and hipster vibe of the Artists Village appeals to me, and I was looking forward to savoring Chef Diego’s seasonal fare. Having dined at both locations over the years, I always seem to order the same thing! Even if I contemplated other menu items, when I opened my mouth to speak, the only words uttered are: cornmeal fried catfish. Served with hush puppies, hoppin’ john, and greens, ahhh, sweet taste memories..

We started with two bourbon cocktail creations from bartender Jeffery (that’s not a typo). Of course, there are martinis, but Memphis is a “bourbon bar” – which makes sense, bourbon is the traditional spirit of the South and a natural pairing for bold Southern flavors. Of the two, I favored the Whiskey Buck (right) with fresh ginger and citrus flavors balancing caramel-y, sweet Evan Williams bourbon.

If you like down-home American comfort food with the Southern twist that only black-eyed peas, okra, grits, house-cured tasso ham, and crawfish can lend, then I don’t think you’ll be disappointed in any of the new menu items.

First up, the craw puppies had the perfect crispy exterior, not greasy, medium grind cornmeal texture, riddled with bits of fresh crawfish. I would go to Memphis for these alone…washed down with a Whiskey Buck, or two, and the barbecued shrimp and green chili grits – creamy, cheesy grits balanced the pleasant punch from smoky house-cured tasso ham – for dessert.

Barbecued shrimp with green chili grits, house-cured tasso ham, pickled okra 

Also noteworthy: the barbecued duck quesadilla, black eyed-pea salad, avocado-jalapeno crema

Paella-stye presentation was a unique touch for the  saffron risotto jambalaya of gulf prawns, carlsbad mussels, manila clams, smoked chicken

Also new on the menu a seasonal roasted beet salad with goat cheese, hazelnuts, arugula, and roasted garlic vinaigrette. Fresh and well prepared, but no surprises here.

A popular dish, but not one of our favorites: block cut New York steak,  hash browns, spinach, mushrooms, red wine reduction.

Chef Diego and Memphis at the Santora also offers a Crawfish Boil that would make a fun and unique family holiday dinner or party for the adventurous at heart who enjoy finger-lickin’ good food!  A southern feast for groups of 8-20 that requires a week-prior reservation; served on traditional butcher paper for optimum peeling and cracking space with New Orleans jazz and zydeco tunes to set the mood – $30/person includes:

1.5 lbs of fresh Louisiana crawfish

Smoked sausage

Corn on the corn

Potatoes

Cornbread muffins

Salad and Dixie Lager (one per person)

Memphis at the Santora

201 North Broadway

Artists Village

Santa Ana, CA  92701

(714) 564-1064

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We certainly have more than our share of Mexican restaurants in southern California; they range from corner takeout joints to gourmet fusion tacos to Baja California surfer cuisine to combination plate American-style Mexican food. But one thing is for sure, not many have been around for 40 years, seen three generations of family ownership, and are as beloved by locals as Mi Casa in Costa Mesa. I’m a total fan of any family-owned business that has served folks in their community for decades and adapted to changing tastes while continuing to keep their loyal patrons happy. Mi Casa is all of that: currently owned and operated by Ryan Moore, a third generation family member, who carries on the tradition of good food, good value, and friendly service where locals and visitors can dine with relatives and friends in a casual relaxed setting.

Mi Casa has also responded with seasonal, healthier, lighter menu options and an impressive array of handcrafted cocktails made with top-shelf brands and artisan tequilas ranging in price from $8.50 to $25.00. Yes, for the big spenders there’s the Billionaire Margarita concocted from Gran Patron Platinum Tequila and Grand Marnier! Known for their mega portions and Sonoran style Mexican food, I’m particularly happy with their Fall seasonal menu featuring four new entrees in addition to their other popular menu items.

First off, my dining partner and I wanted to sample a few of the tempting cocktails – she had been battling L.A. traffic for two hours and definitely needed a refreshment to calm her nerves and I need no excuse After much contemplation (there are three pages of drinks including margaritas, specialty cocktails, martinis, shots and after dinner drinks) we decided  to spice up the evening with a Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita. Why not, it was Friday Happy Hour and I was celebrating leaving the next day for a three week trip that included Paris!

1921 Blanco Tequila, muddled cucumber and jalapeno, organic agave nectar and lime juice

If you like it HOT and STRONG, then this one’s for you.

Or you might want to try the Habanero-infused El Jimador tequila, Cointreau, sweet & sour and lime juice – I wasn’t that brave

The restaurant decor is an eclectic mix of retro memorabilia celebrating Mi Casa’s heritage, south of the border kitschy art, and western steakhouse with leather booths, dim lighting and tabletops imprinted with cattle brands. Pitchers of chilled water are at each table and guests promptly receive a basket of chips and the house salsa to munch on while perusing the menu.

It’s been a while since I popped into Mi Casa for lunch (shredded beef tacos!) and at least a year since I’ve joined the crowd at their popular $3 Happy Hour; on this night I was there specifically to try their new Fall Menu. Although I enjoy the haute cuisine du jour and picture all manner of mouthwatering dishes in my restaurant write-ups here, my emphasis is on healthy dining options and I was pleased to see the Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos and Shrimp Enchiladas on the menu along with their Chile Relleno Puebla and Chicken Tamale.

 Two grilled Mahi-Mahi tacos with creamy avocado sauce, pico de gallo, shredded cabbage, and queso fresco; served with rice and salad. ($11.95)

Fish tacos were a given and the other entree we selected was the Chile Relleno Puebla – other than the ubiquitous taco, Chile Rellenos are my favorite and, way back when, I was told that you can judge a Mexican restaurant by their chile relleno, so I always order it. The mahi-mahi was well prepared, i.e. not over-cooked, with just the perfect amount of acid from the pico de gallo, salty queso fresco, and crunchy cabbage. We were both pleased to see that the Chile Relleno wasn’t smothered with a heavy batter as many are, but lightly coated with egg and, of the two sauces which we requested on the side, preferred the ranchero sauce with the ample serving of rice and beans.

Fresh pasilla chile stuffed with queso fresco and covered in your choice of ranchero sauce or salsa verde; served with rice and beans. ($8.95)

By this time, we had asked for a sample of each of their salsas and, with a bottomless basket of chips, we were compelled to try another cocktail while we waited for our entrees – just one more…

The Mangorita was calling our name and the Grapefruit Margarita with St. Germain Elderflower sounded intriguing. Both were super delicious and more suited to our taste than the spicy first round; the Mangorita was almost creamy with the consistency of a smoothie which made it dangerously easy to drink and the Grapefruit Margarita had a perfectly balanced, refreshing sweet/tart taste that I love – my rapture for St. Germain Elderflower rages on.

Mangorita – Herradura Silver Tequila blended with mango, organic agave, Triple Sec and lime juice.

Corralejo Blanco Tequila, St. Germain, grapefruit juice, sweet & sour and lime juice.

Dessert selections include flan, arroz con leche, key lime ice cream pie, and a caramel churro sundae. Neither of us have much of a sweet tooth, so in lieu of dessert, we couldn’t resist the highly recommended X-O to end the evening. A lovely concoction indeed!

Patron X-O, Tres Leches, and Frangelico topped with cinnamon, Oh yeah!

We had arrived early (natural light = better photos) and by the time we left the restaurant was buzzing with activity, every table was occupied, and the entry filled with couples and families waiting. That’s why Mi Casa’s been around for 40 years!

Mi Casa

296 E. 17th Street

Costa Mesa, CA 92627

(949) 645-7626

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Le Pain Quotidien has arrived in Orange County!  And it’s arrived in style, with a prime location and stunning ocean view at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. Now we can enjoy the simple, elegant boulangerie fare of Belgian bakery and café Le Pain Quotidien that Belgians, Parisians, New Yorkers and Angelenos have been privy to for years!

Le Pain Quotidien  – pronounced luh paN koh-ti-dyaN, meaning “the daily bread” — was founded in Brussels in 1990 by Chef Alain Coumont, whose concept of simplicity and timelessness now has an international presence with more than 150 locations worldwide.

The bakery, which is in full view of passers-by and diners, entices you with glimpses of its artisan organic bread, which is still kneaded and shaped by hand then baked in a hearth under the watchful eye of head baker Jonathan Eng.

The Fashion Island location is the second to feature a unique on-site bakery that will offer baking classes to the public – the first was Bleeker Street in NYC. Jonathan comes to sunny southern California from the Bleeker Street location and will lead the baking classes at Newport Beach. Wheat, rye, spelt, five-grain walnut, baguettes, French rolls, brioche, croissants, muffins and other pastries, will all be baked fresh daily.

Le Pain Quotidien’s menu accommodates vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, and will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner for in-restaurant dining or take-out service with a wide selection of soups, salads, and tartines (open-faced sandwiches, a house specialty) featuring their signature breads.

The tartine is one of Le Pain Quotidien’s most popular offerings and, at a media preview, guests were treated to a tasting of several of the more than dozen varieties available on the dining and catering menu, including Paris Ham and Aged Gruyère with cornichons and mustard trio; Organic Black Bean Hummus with avocado and spicy tahini; Smoked Atlantic Salmon with avocado and chopped dill; and Chicken Curry Salad with a side of harissa-cranberry chutney.

Le Pain Quotidien will also present seasonal offerings on a menu that changes approximately five times a year and the artisan bakers will be creating new bread and pastries to retail only in the Fashion Island locale.  Fall specials include a Broccoli, Ham and Swiss Frittata; Vegan Cherry Scone; Gazpacho; Roasted Turkey, Brie and Honey Mustard Tartine; Endive, Fourme d’Ambert and Pear Salad; French Lentil, Chickpea and Avocado Salad; Mixed Grape and Walnut Tart; and Sparkling Hibiscus Tea.

With its communal tables, artisanal dishes and tranquil environment, Le Pain Quotidien transports its customers to the Belgian countryside and a simpler way of life.  In Newport Beach, you’re likely to be drawn to the stunning view of the Pacific from the sunny patio, but you’ll also love the beautiful interior which features high ceilings, warm handcrafted wood furnishings, rustic brick walls, expansive windows and classical music for a warm atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and conversation.

We were pleased to meet Regional Vice President Tony Martin and General Manager Kaylyn Crawford and share in their excitement at the opening of LPQ. Both placed great emphasis on how Le Pain Quotidien is committed to responsible business practices that are good for the community and the environment. In keeping with their commitment to preserving the environment, Le Pain Quotidien uses reclaimed wood and recycled Gypsum in its construction, along with energy-efficient lamps, environmentally friendly cleaning supplies, and packaging.

You’re invited to join the Grand Opening celebration and meet Chef Coumont all while benefiting Share Our Strength this Thursday, October 27th.  Tickets are $40 per guest and can be purchased by contacting Judy Walker at 949-481-7792 or via email at jwalker@strength.org. Le Pain Quotidien will donate 100% of ticket sales to the local chapter of Share Our Strength, a national nonprofit whose goal it is to end childhood hunger in America.

Le Pain Quotidien

Fashion Island

1103 Newport Center Drive

Newport Beach, CA

For more information, including menus, catering information and baking classes, visit www.lepainquotidien.us.

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We’re definitely spoiled living in Southern California; yes, the state is in a shambles and there are absolutely too many people in cars dashing madly about, but if your soul were nourished by a view like this each morning, you would have to agree that it’s worth it.

Not that this is what I wake up to every morning… I happen to be in Boston for a few days and woke up to a view of the Charles River on a damp and foggy fall day. No offense to Boston – I love the spirit and history of this city and rather enjoy experiencing some “weather” for a few days!  After all, to southern Californians, the autumnal equinox brings heat and Santa Ana winds for a few days here and there, followed by temperatures plummeting below 65°F necessitating a hoodie, brrrrr.

Meanwhile, back at the beach. The Surf and Sand Resort in picturesque Laguna Beach might be the best kept secret in this area overshadowed by newer, larger, flashier resorts. Every room has a gorgeous ocean view to nourish your soul and calm your mind. There’s the casual, outdoor bar 15fiftyfive that’s like being on the A-list at a wealthy somebody’s private party with live music and weekly features such as craft beer, artisanal spirits, or wine varietal or region samplings.

You’re on the A-list at 15Fifty Five

Mixologist and pastry chef Ryan Velilla served two handcrafted cocktails: their Musa Mule, a twist on  the Moscow, featuring banana-infused Russian vodka and housemade ginger beer, and a Margarita L’Orange rimmed with black sea salt.

Don’t miss Denny White (does a spot-on Ray la Montagne) on Friday and Saturday nights.

Then there’s the stunning 4-star Splashes Restaurant, with waves breaking 25 feet below, as close to the Pacific as you can be without getting wet I’ve celebrated at least one wedding anniversary, Mother’s Day, and several romantic dates leading up to those landmark days at Splashes.

On this day, I was among a group of media types invited by The OCeanfront, CA and JC Resorts for a Seafood BBQ on the Surf and Sand’s glamorous pool deck, with an exciting Hollywood-meets-South Beach vibe, to meet Executive Chef Jeff Armstrong and experience Splashes’ Mediterranean-inspired coastal menu and the simple, yet elegant, farm-to-table seasonal fare that has garnered Chef Armstrong national recognition.

A fabulous location for any party!

Chef Armstrong worked his magic on a huge round stone grill by the sea, is there any doubt that he loves his job!

Life is good when savoring BBQ octopus, grilled shrimp skewers and red snapper with sides of local fish ceviche with flavors of coconut and green curry, roasted corn salad, and chips with guacamole and fresh salsas by the sea!

Followed by Surf and Sand S’mores!

In case S’mores weren’t enough temptation, there were Apple Tartlets and White Chocolate Bavarian Shooters!

While these particular dishes and desserts aren’t on the Splashes menu, I’m hungry to try more and thinking, since Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, our anniversary, and my birthday are all past, perhaps a dinner and night’s stay during the holidays is in order. That way I can check out their intimate Aquaterra Spa and soak up more of this stunning gem in Orange County.

Surf and Sand Resort

1555 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651-3226

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