Grilled Cheese

As you may already know, April is National Grilled Cheese Month. What you may not know is that James Beard nominated chef, John Cuevas of the crow bar & kitchen, serves up daily renditions of a classic grilled cheese sandwich all day, every day! Just ask for ‘Today’s Grilled Cheese Sandwich’ to find twists on the favorite comfort food dish. 

A few of Chef Cuevas’ unique grilled cheese sandwiches of the day include:

• Monterey Jack and Gorgonzola, Cremini Mushroom on Wheat Bread Grilled Cheese (pictured above)
• Smoked Mozzarella and Provolone with Selection of Cured Meats and Spicy Mustard on Wheat Bread
• Smoked Mozzarella and Grilled Zucchini, Heirloom Tomatoes and Olive Mayo on Country Bread
• Aged Cheddar and Braised Short Rib, Pickled Onion Aioli on Potato Bread
• Danish Havarti and Crispy Pork Belly, Haas Avocado, Caramelized Onion on Sourdough Bread

So, grilled cheese lovers looking for somewhere to celebrate the month of cheesy-gooey-goodness in Orange County, stop by the crow bar & kitchen.

the crow bar & kitchen
2325 East Coast Highway
Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
949.675.0070 | www.crowbarcdm.com

-Blythe
on my grooveshark: Fleetwood Mac's "Say You Will"

MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH PARTNERS WITH SHARE OUR STRENGTH TO HOST TASTE OF THE NATION®

[ The 2009 Event.]

Executive Chef Craig Strong Joins Forces with Other Area Celebrity Chefs in Effort to End Childhood Hunger

On May 22^nd, 2011, Montage Laguna Beach will host Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation^®, one of America’s leading culinary benefits, in hopes of eliminating childhood hunger across the nation.

Seven celebrity chefs will share their passion and skills in preparing fresh farm-to-table delicacies to further Share Our Strength’s dream of ending childhood hunger by 2015. Attendees will enjoy an afternoon of delectable dishes, wine, signature cocktails, live music, and the picturesque panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean at Montage Laguna Beach. “In our ongoing commitment to the culinary focus at Montage Laguna Beach, we will be pairing each chef with local farms and wineries that will allow our guests to experience hyper-local food and wine for the ultimate farm-to-table experience,” said Todd Orlich, General Manager of Montage Laguna Beach.

Executive Chef Craig Strong of Studio, Montage Laguna Beach’s Signature Restaurant, will be joined by:

• Chef Scott Conant –Scarpetta Beverly Hills & Food Network judge and host
• Chef Richard Ruskell – Executive Pastry Chef at Montage Beverly Hills, Food Network “Challenge” winner and star of upcoming Food Network “Last Cake Standing”
• Chef Mark Peel – Campanile, Los Angeles & Food Network “Top Chef Masters”
• Chef Joachim Splichal – Patina, Los Angeles
• Chef Alex Stratta – Alex, Las Vegas
• Chef Alan Wong – Alan Wong’s Restaurant, Honolulu 

“Montage is proud to support such a wonderful cause and be a part of an amazing organization,” said Todd Orlich. “We are committed to Share Our Strength and that is why we have asked some of our closest friends in the industry to come together to help raise awareness for childhood hunger.”

As contributors to the charity’s cause, guests can choose between two of the following event packages:

• Celebrity Chef Tasting 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for $150 per person or at the door for $175 per person.

• VIP “Meet the Chefs” Reception 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Complete the night with VIP treatment and a sunset toast. Enjoy the Celebrity Chef Tasting followed by an after party to mingle with the chefs. Valet parking and post-event gifts are included. Tickets purchased in advance are $250 per person and $275 at the door.

The revenue from each ticket purchased for Taste of the Nation^® goes to Share Our Strength’s “No Kid Hungry” campaign that advocates ending childhood hunger in America by increasing access to nutrition programs and investing in effective community organizations to fight hunger.

For more details regarding Taste of the Nation at Montage Laguna Beach and to purchase tickets, visit www.tasteofthenation.org or call (877) 26TASTE (82783).

About Share Our Strength

Share Our Strength®, a national nonprofit, is ending childhood hunger in America by connecting children with the nutritious food they need to lead healthy, active lives. Through its No Kid Hungry(tm) campaign-a national effort to end childhood hunger in America by 2015-Share Our Strength ensures children in need are enrolled in effective federal nutrition programs, invests in community organizations fighting hunger, teaches families how to cook healthy meals on a budget, and builds public-private partnerships to end hunger, both nationally and at the state level. Working closely with the culinary industry and relying on the strength of its volunteers, Share Our Strength hosts innovative culinary fundraising events and develops pioneering cause marketing campaigns that support No Kid Hungry. Visit Strength.org to get involved in the No Kid Hungry campaign.

About Montage Laguna Beach

Montage, set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific in the heart of the vibrant arts community of Laguna Beach, offers 30 acres of oceanfront luxury.  The 250-room craftsman-style resort features beachfront accommodations; a 20,000-square-foot spa; destination dining at Studio; a wealth of outdoor recreation, including three pools, beach and water sports; a fine art collection; and more than 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. For information and reservations, please contact Montage, toll-free, at 1-888-715-6700; or visit the Web site at www.montagelagunabeach.com.

Chef Fabio Helps Olive Crest Raise Money for OC Children!

[Left to Right:  Casey Reinhardt of Casey’s Cupcakes, Darrel Anderson, Olive Crest Chairman of the Board and President, Retired, Knott Anderson Enterprises, Marsha Anderson, Darrel’s wife and Orange County philanthropist, and Chef Fabio Viviani]

OCG: You recently participated in a fundraiser here in Orange County with Olive Crest called “Harvesting Hope.” Did you have a good time?
CF: I did! I had a great time!  Raising money for a good cause and sharing my recipes is what I love to do.

OCG: What was your favorite part of the night?
CF: The auction was a lot of fun and I look forward to cooking for several of the generous donors to Olive Crest.  Casey’s Cupcakes were delicious too!

OCG: Why was this cause close to your heart?
CF:I love kids and any time I have the chance to give a child a better life, I will do anything to help. 

OCG: How did you like Orange County/Newport Beach?
CF:It’s beautiful! How can you go wrong with the ocean at your doorstep? I live in LA and it’s much more peaceful down here.

OCG: Apparently your cooking demonstration of the Mediterranean Style Pan Roasted Chicken was very entertaining and quite the crowd pleaser. Where does your sense of humor come from? 
CF: My grandma taught me to have fun in the kitchen and that is what I try to do.  To me, cooking is spending time with family and friends and enjoying the company, wherever you are.  

OCG: What’s your favorite dish to prepare?
CF:I love risotto.  It’s easy and delicious and you can make it a thousand ways.  I dream of new ways to make risotto. 

OCG: What’s next for you? Any events or projects in the works?
CF:This May, I’m coming out with an iPad application with Bertolli Olive Oil.  Download it and you’ll get 16 of my exclusive step-by-step videos of some of my all-time favorite recipes.  It’s going to be a lot of fun.

OCG: To help raise money, you auctioned off a four-course meal prepared by you for the winner at their house. Are you excited for that very private cooking gig? Have you already thought of the menu you’ll prepare?
CF: Definitely. It will probably be something light and delicious for the spring using fresh herbs and vegetables. I love grilling vegetables and even fruit.  

OCG: If you had to give our readers the number one secret to being a great chef, what would it be?

CF: I can’t tell you my secrets!

Olive Crest's Annual Harvesting Hope Event

I had the opportunity to attend Olive Crest's annual gala on March 19th- the Harvesting Hope for Kids event at Newport's Big Canyon Country Club. I went last year just before we printed a spotlight on Olive Crest. The Olive Crest Foundation has transformed the lives of over 50,000 abused, neglected, and at-risk children and their families in Orange County. Olive Crest is truly one of the most inspiring nonprofits in OC. 


At this year's Harvesting Hope For Kids event (which is an annual gala and fundraiser), we had the pleasure of watching Chef Fabio of Top Chef give a cooking demonstration. I got the chance to meet Chef Fabio personally (and have him sign a copy of his cookbook for me!), and he is so nice (and hilarious) in person. 

He was a great addition to the night's events, which also included a silent auction, a live auction, an opportunity drawing, more food and wine than you could imagine, and a cupcake bar!

Casey's Cupcakes provided the goods- from cupcakes to cake pops- that got us all salivating. Casey's Cupcakes just opened a location in Laguna Beach, by the way! Here I am with my friend Samira, enjoying a cupcake (or two) from Casey's Cupcakes:

Check out Olive Crest on their website (one simple way to help is by registering your Ralph's card- it's free!)
and read our article on Olive Crest here.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Bon Iver's "Brackett, WI"

Reign Anniversary Bash This Saturday

This Saturday, March 26th, Reign Training Center in Lake Forest is throwing a 1 Year Anniversary Bash, and you're invited! Join in on the fun: Enjoy dinner served by Boneheads (now I'm craving their Piri Piri chicken!) and
check out UFC Fight Night 24: Little Nog vs Phil Davis Live!

From 12-3pm, catch autograph signings, demos, raffles, and giveaways.
From 4-7pm: Celebrity Poker Tournament (come play with the pros: $30 Pre-Registered, $50 at the door click here to register!)
From 7-10pm: Watch UFC Fight Night 24 With The Pros catered by Boneheads

Dinner Menu:
Boneheads Shrimp (probably the best shrimp you will ever have): $5.00
Kids Chicken Meal: $5.00
Chicken Breast Dinner: $8.00
Grilled Salmon Dinner: $9.00
All meals include rice, zucchini, and side salad

You won't want to miss it!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Andrew Bird's "Fitz and Dizzyspells"

Tuesday Nights at Forest Lanes

Forest Lanes in Lake Forest has a reputation for offering all sorts of fun- from their karaoke nights to beer pong nights to cosmic bowling to Friday nights with a live DJ. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, their Quartermania Special (after 8 pm) involves a $7 entrance fee and then each game is only 75 cents. Not only that, but pizza slices are 75 cents, and beer is $2.

Also, every Tuesday night, from 5pm to 9pm, various food trucks gather at the Forest Lanes parking lot.

"On the night I went the following trucks were present: Calbi, Seabirds, Crepes Bonaparte, Barcelona on the Go, Taco Dawg and a few others I can't remember off the top of my head," says Riche of Laguna Beach. "The great thing about this event are the short lines, the ability to bring your food into the bowling alley to dine on their tables (even in the bar where they have drink specials), the overall choice of various trucks and the fact that there's plenty of free parking."

Enjoy this veritible rolling food court while it lasts!

Also, visit this link to fill out a short form to receive two free bowling passes!

Forest Lanes is located at
22771 Centre Drive
Lake Forest 92630

Call (949) 770-0055 for more information.

-Blythe
on my iTunes: Death Cab's "Different Names For the Same Thing"

Teen Chef Competition 2011 at The Art Institute of California

Enter to Win the Best Teen Chef Competition 2011 at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Orange County

Do you enjoy exploring new recipes and trying new flavor combinations? If you are a high school senior graduating in 2011, then the Best Teen Chef Competition at The Art Institute of California - Orange County is the place to showcase your talents. Compete against your peers to earn a scholarship towards a culinary education at one of The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California - Orange County.

A Best Teen Chef will be crowned and offered a $5,000 scholarship towards a culinary degree program. The Best Teen Chef Competition, now in its twelfth year, is an opportunity for high school seniors in the U.S. and Canada interested in pursuing a culinary career to experience the excitement and discipline of the industry.  

“Every year, we continue to be inspired by the talents of the emerging culinarians that enter the Best Teen Chef Competition. These students show a real love for the culinary arts and an enthusiasm for exploring fresh new meal ideas for friends and family,” says Daniel Mattos, Academic Director of Culinary Arts at The Art Institute of California – Orange County.

To be eligible to enter the competition, high school seniors must first submit a completed Entry & Release Form by February 4, 2011 to The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Orange County. Deadline for complete entries into the competition is February 25, 2011. Selected entrants will progress to Local Cook-Off Competition at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Orange County on April 30, 2011.

To learn how to enter the Best Teen Chef Competition 2011 and to view the competition rules, visit http://www.artinstitutes.edu/pr.aspx?ID=AI2127 or contact Hope Adams, Associate Director of Admissions The Art Institute of California – Orange County at hadams@aii.edu or 714.338.1307.

About The International Culinary Schools at The Art Institutes:
The International Culinary Schools at The Art Institutes is North America's largest system of culinary programs offered at over 30 Art Institutes schools. Based on classical Escoffier, Asian, and Latin culinary techniques, with an emphasis on progressive trends and practices, the schools' curriculum are designed to develop and sharpen fundamental cooking techniques and professional skills and introduce a variety of international cuisines. Internships, student-run school restaurants, guest lectures and Web-based seminars, and study abroad programs help broaden the scope of learning for students.
Program offerings vary at each school. Prospective students should check the course offerings at The Art Institutes school they are interested in attending before enrolling. To learn more about The International Culinary Schools at The Art Institutes, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/culinary or www.exploreculinary.com.


-Blythe
on my grooveshark: Dr. Dog's "Heart it Races"

Bruxie in Orange

Last week, I ventured out with some friends to try out Bruxie, the new-ish little Belgian waffle sandwich restaurant stand in downtown Orange.

The restaurant is a walk-up-and-order kind of place; like a taco stand. The main difference is that instead of greasy fast food, this stand delivers gourmet, handcrafted waffle sandwiches. There is a little side patio that is covered and enclosed with canvas hangings and warmed with heating lamps, which all adds up to make quite a cozy dining experience.


"Bruxie is a new take on the authentic Belgium Waffle. The 'Bruxie' is unlike any waffle offered: the Bruxie is light, crisp, yeasty and not sweet. It's street food that's perfect for breakfast, lunch, mid day snack as well as a dessert or late night treat."

Honestly, I don't even like waffles. My friend picked our dinner spot, and I was a bit nervous about her choice. I'm perhaps a little too adventurous with food and new dining spots though, so my curiosity took over. I tried a "Cheesey Bruxie" (grilled cheddar and gruyere) with avocado and waffle fries:

In a word: DELICIOUS.

One of my friends got the special- some sort of roast beef, potato, horseradish, french dippy concoction:

Another friend tried a Bruxie Burger:

Then, as planned, I tried a dessert Bruxie with Nutella & Bananas.

SOOOOO TASTY!

Bruxie is located two blocks from the Orange Circle/Plaza on the corner of Glassell and Palm. All items are under $8, and most Bruxie sandwiches are around $6. See the menu here.

Happy waffling!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: The Shins' "Phantom Limb"

Romeo Cucina: The OC Gazette's holiday lunch spot

[One of the many delicious dishes at Romeo Cucina.]

Have you ever been to a restaurant that won’t seat you until everyone arrives? Not at Romeo Cucina! We selected this restaurant for our company gathering to celebrate the holidays. It’s a crazy time at the magazine winding up the end of the year so all of us arrived separately and none of us on time. But that didn’t faze Romeo Cucina. We were each warmly greeted, seated and catered to in the most professional manner. I would actually have been satisfied at that point with the top notch service but that was just the beginning. The food was delicious. My choice was with Panini Ruspante although the choices were abundant. And the bread! I wished for a larger purse so I could smuggle it out. Yummm. Our experience was 5 stars from beginning to end. If you are looking for a special place with a friendly cost and service that will leave you feeling spoiled, try Romeo Cucina. And stop by and say hi – we’ll probably be at one of the other tables.

Romeo Cucina (Laguna Niguel)
28241 Crown Valley Parkway
Laguna Niguel
949.831.4131

Romeo Cucina (Laguna Beach)
249 Broadway
Laguna Beach
949.497.6627

http://www.romeocucina.com/

- Candice
Listening to: Josh Turner's "Why Don't We Just Dance"

Moocher Monday Giveaway: Gift Certificates to Mr. Pickle's!

It's no secret that Monday is the least favored day of the week. After two glorious days off with Friday and Saturday (like two cool kids whose parents don't care how late you sleep in, or how much red licorice you eat), here comes Monday, like a Debbie Downer, forcing you out of bed against your will at an unseemly hour, and then urging you back to work. No matter how much you love your job, Monday morning brings out a bit of the blues in all of us.

Well, The OC Gazette is here to bring you good tidings of better Mondays! We've been offering weekly giveaways for a few months under the moniker "Moocher Mondays," in an effort to redeem the least-best day of the week. From concert tickets to restaurant gift cards to theater tickets to clothing to spa treatments, we've given away a whole boatload of goodies to our readers and Facebook fans as a way of saying, "Thank you, gentle reader. Here's lookin' at turning that foul Monday into the start of a prosperous week!"

And now, to the point! Today is, as you know, Monday. Go ahead, let out a long sigh. Now suck it back in, because your luck is about to change! Today, we're giving away goodies to not one, not two, but THREE lucky readers! We've got three $10 gift certificates to Mr. Pickle's Sandwich Shop to give away today! Mr. Pickle's is a fun and fresh local eatery where you can find such scrumptious sandwiches as the "Hang Loose," with hot pastrami, bacon, cream cheese and avocado (!), or how about "The Hot 'T'" - hot turkey, melted pepper jack cheese, baja and cranberry sauce? These are just two of the TWENTY specialty sandwiches available at Mr. Pickle's, not counting the seven classic sandwich choices available! You certainly have options at Mr. Pickle's, which is more than most Mondays can offer you. 


Mr. Pickle's Sandwich Shop is located in Lake Forest, at:
23591 Rockfield Blvd.
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Phone: 949.770.2685


To enter, simply peruse Mr. Pickle's menu and leave a comment on this post with the sandwich(es) you'd buy with your gift certificate! Please also include your email address, or we won't have a way to let you know you've won! Your information will not be used by us for any other purpose than to contact you regarding your prize. **** For an extra entry, become a follower of this blog! Scroll down until you see the "Followers" section on the right hand side of this blog. Click "Follow," and then leave a second comment letting us know that you're now a follower!


Three winners will be selected using random.org tomorrow morning at 11am, so leave your comment before then to be eligible! 


Good luck and hope this helps turn your Monday around. ;)


-Blythe


on my iTunes: George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord"

StandUp on the Vine was a hit!

 You might remember our post about the StandUp on the Vine event that was to be held at Bacchus Secret Cellar a couple weeks ago- well, the night came and was a smash hit! Cal State Fullerton students held a wine tasting night to raise money and awareness for the nonprofit organization StandUp For Kids; StandUp on the Vine brought in over $2,600 and more than 50 attendees! So far, StandUp For Kids has raised $36,00 of the $380,000 needed to build the center. Once built, the center will provide youth with supplies, counseling services, a drop-in center, transitional housing, and a central meeting location for StandUp For Kids.

All proceeds from the night will go toward building a transitional living center for the homeless youth of Orange County. Bacchus owners Jeff and Valerie Roos generously donated an additional 50% of ticket sales to StandUp For Kids. 

The night included a performance by the Ryan Rost Quartet, with pianist Kei Akagi (who has worked with the likes of Miles Davis)! The band donated their time and talent for the night's festivities:

A number of great items were raffled off, including spa packages, Duck tickets, restaurant gift certificates, and jewelry.

Some happy attendees:

The place was a-bustlin':

 Another group of attendees happily tasting away:

The menu included four choices of red and white wines, two beer choices, and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. Appetizers and desserts were also served.

At 7:13, a candlelight vigil was held to honor the 13 children who die daily on the streets.


StandUp For Kids was founded in 1990 and is dedicated to improving the lives of homeless and at-risk youth by providing them with access to health services, life skills training, and basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. To find out more or to make a donation, visit www.standupforkids.org

Bacchus Secret Cellar is always hosting cool events and even has a nightly happy hour! Be sure to check out their website so you'll be in the loop for the next great event!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Aimee Mann's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"

This Weekend in OC: 11/11-14

 

It's Wednesday, and you know what that means! Well....you may not know what it means, unless you've made a clever assumption based on the snazzy header of this post and noticed my one-week-streak of posting upcoming weekend events for you guys on Wednesdays. And that's exactly what today's post is concerning: giving you the scoop, the fill-in, the buzz, the 4-1-1, the happs - and so on- regarding some fun things for you to do in Orange County this weekend!

Ready? Pen and paper in hand? Good. Here goes: 

Tomorrow, Thursday, 11/11:

Hullabaloo Children's Concert! Take your tots to Grand Park in Aliso Viejo. Kids and parents will be clapping, stomping,  singing, and more at this FREE outdoor concert from 11-11:45am. Arrive early to meet other moms for morning cardio: Push your kids in their stroller and join Stroller Strides for one FREE hour of cardio from 9:30-10:30!

Night of Indulgence! From 6-9pm, visit Salon Sauvage for a special night of pampering! Complimentary services, including mini spa services and hair services, complimentary wine and cheese, complimentary skin care and hair care products from Prive, Epicuren, SudzzFx, Phytomer, and White Sands, a Gift Basket Raffle, and $30 Sauvage Bucks (good for future a Salon Sauvage visit) when you bring a friend! Call for details- Appointments are required: (949) 661-2055

Feathery Friends Toddler Program - Kiddos ages 3-4 can come learn about birds- even those that can't fly! Class is from 10-11am at the OC Zoo in Orange (1 Irvine Park Rd.) and includes hands-on learning and fun crafts. $5/child and $3 to park. Phone registration required: (714)973-6846


Friday, 11/12:

Charlotte's Web: The Musical - The refreshed take on E.B. White's classic story hits Laguna Playhouse's Moulton Theater Stage this weekend and runs through 12/21. Tickets are $18-20/person. Call (949)497-2787 for more info.

Discovery Hike: From 9am-12pm, explore beautiful Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park as you discover its wildlife with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this moderate but steep, uneven, and rocky 5 mile hike. $2/person and $3 to park.  Meet at Canyon View Staging Area, Gate 7. Reservations required: (949)923-2235.

Night Hike: From 5:30-7pm, come to the first of a series of three night hikes with the Irvine Park Rangers. A visit to the nature center for hot chocolate and cookies begins the night at 5:30, followed by a live animal demonstration, and finally, an easy 30 minute star lit hike. FREE with FREE parking in lot #19. Meet at the Nature Center with a warm jacket, a flashlight, and good walking shoes. Call (714)973-6833 for more info.

Saturday, 11/13:

Come hang out with me and Amy!

Gamble the night away with celebrities and sports stars at TACA's 4th Annual Ante Up for Autism Event!

One in every 91 children has autism. Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) provides support and education to over 18,500 families across the US who are touched by autism. On Saturday night, come try your luck for a good cause- and join celebrities, athletes, and professional poker players who plan to do the same. Clifton Collins Jr. of NBC's The Event, That Thing You Do actor Johnathon Schaech, One Tree Hill actress and singer Kate Voegele, actor Jonathon Silverman, actress Jennifer Finnigan, Deal or No Deal model Leyla Milani, musician and author Michael Ward, actor Jacob Vargas, retired Anaheim Ducks player Scott Niedermayer, former NFL quarterback Jim Everett, world champion cyclist (and OC native) Brian Lopes, Olympic track and field athlete Lolo Jones, Olympic gold medal hurdle winner Felix Sanchez, retired pro baseball player Jim Gott, Motocross racer Ernesto Fonseca, and many more. 

Event includes cocktails on the resort line, tournament poker, a live and silent auction, and tips from poker stars! 

Tickets are available at www.anteupforautism.org or email Violette Prentice at (949)640-4401. The event will be held at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, red carpet entry beginning at 5:30pm and general admission beginning at 7pm. 

Native Plant Hike: From 8-11am, enjoyed unspoiled canyon views and learn about the geology of OC on a strenuous, 3.5 mile hike. $2/person and $3 to park. Meet at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (east side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR 133, just North of the 73 Toll Road). Call for more info or directions: (949)923-2235

Sunday, 11/14: 

StandUp on the Vine Event at Bacchus Secret Cellar: You should remember reading about this one a couple days ago on the blog (scroll down or click here). This Sunday, Bacchus Secret Cellar in Irvine is hosting StandUp On The Vine, a wine tasting charity event benefiting StandUp For Kids. StandUp For Kids is a nonprofit organization that helps homeless youth in OC. The event goes from 5-8 pm. Tickets are $35 per person, and include wine tasting, appetizers, desserts, and entertainment. All profits  will go to StandUp For Kids, and all you have to do is SitDown and Sip! For more info, call: (949) 502-4600.

Family Survival: Camp Cooking - Hands-on survival and disaster preparedness at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach. 1-5pm. RSVP required by calling (949)645-8489.

Geology Hike: From 8-11am, enjoyed unspoiled canyon views and learn about the geology of OC on a strenuous, 3.5 mile hike. $2/person and $3 to park. Meet at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Willow Canyon Staging Area (20101 Laguna Canyon Rd, just South of El Toro Rd. intersection). Call for more info or directions: (949)923-2235

Many of these events (and plenty others) are listed on the calendar page of The OC Gazette! Nab a copy to keep on top of all the fun local happenings!
So much to do, so little time! Happy weekend-ing folks! :)

-Blythe


on my iTunes: Tom Petty's "Square One"

StandUp on the Vine Event at Bacchus Secret Cellar

Do you like wine? How about helping homeless children? Did you know there are over 22,00 homeless youth in Orange County? What if I told you there was a way you could help homeless children in OC by drinking wine?

This coming Sunday, November 14th, at Bacchus Secret Cellar in Irvine is hosting StandUp On The Vine, a wine tasting charity event benefiting StandUp For Kids. StandUp For Kids is a nonprofit organization that helps homeless youth in OC.

The event goes from 5-8 pm. Tickets are $35 per person, and include wine tasting, appetizers, desserts, and entertainment. All profits  will go to StandUp For Kids, and all you have to do is SitDown and Sip from a selection of wines! A raffle will also take place during the evening- who doesn't love a raffle? Even the word is fun to say: raffle. (Side note: at the university I went to, clubs weren't allowed to advertise "raffles;" we had to use the verbiage "opportunity drawing." Weird, huh?). Event is 21+ and attire is business casual. Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketleap.com, using the search term 'StandUp On The Vine.'

What's more, Bachhus has said they will match 50% of all sales made throughout the evening. StandUp For Kids hopes to raise enough funds to open a drop-in center and transitional housing for homeless children in OC.

Bacchus Secret Cellar is located at:

6735 Quail Hill Pkwy.
Irvine, CA 92603

For more info, call: (949) 502-4600

Hope to see you there!

-Blythe

on Grooveshark: Donovan's "Catch the Wind"

More info about StandUp For Kids:


Homeless in Orange County from T V on Vimeo.

This Weekend in OC

 

There used to be a cartoon called The Weekenders about a rag tag group of kids who I can only assume, since I never actually saw the show, lived for the weekend (their theme song ended with the line, "I'm living for the weekend"). It may only be Wednesday today, but it's always nice to have something to look forward to (i.e., the weekend). For us Orange Countians, there's always something fun to do on the weekend.

Take this weekend, for example; you have a whole slew of fun events to choose from:

 

Tomorrow, hit the 1st Thursday Artwalk in Laguna Beach, where you can check out galleries for free, see cool local artist demonstrations, live performances, etc:

Beginning Friday, the Laguna Beach Hunger Bowl, which includes music, art, a silent auction, and food, all to raise awareness about Hunger and Homelessness. Your ticket gets you 6 soup tastes in a handmade ceramic bowl that's yours to take home, a soda, and a dessert:

Also on Friday, the Taste of San Clemente! Foodies rejoice! The event goes from 6-10:30pm at the Rancho San Clemente Tennis Club, and includes food, wine, entertainment and dancing:

Friday night is also Astronomy Night at Rancho Sonado in Silverado Canyon! Grab the kiddos, strap on your boots and warm clothing, and head up for a sunset hike with an evening under the stars with constellation stories. Only $5/person! 6:30-8:30pm. Reservations required: (714) 708-3885

 

Another Friday night idea: the Irvine Holiday Faire at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. From 5-9pm, More than 150 artists will showcase unique, handmade items for purchase. Never to early to start your Christmas shopping! Event also includes live music and food. The Faire continues on Saturday:

Any chocolate lovers out there? I hope you're sitting down for this: On Friday night, the OC Chocolate Fest will be held from 5-9pm at Miles Square Park in Fountain Valley. Wowzers. Over 100 vendors of fine chocolates, wine tastings, and gifts:

Finally, on Saturday morning, you can attend a Composting Workshop from 10am-noon at the OC Great Park for FREE. Learn to recycle your greens to make a healthy substance for plants and soil:

There you have it, folks; plenty of fun things to do this weekend, and plenty of time to plan to do them! Let us know if you go to any of these events, and send us your pictures!

By the way, all of these events and many more are included in the November Events page in this month's issue of The OC Gazette. Be sure to check out the Events page every month for more great local events!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: "Tiny Dancer" by Elton John

Happy Hour Week: Sol Cocina

(Greg Long mixing up drinks at Sol Cocina. Photo courtesy of Sol Cocina)

Happy Hour Week is in full swing! Last night I dropped by Sol Cocina with OC Gazette photographer Blythe Hill for a little R n' R. Blythe left her camera at home and I let my design-weary eyes have the night off. We began our end of day unwind with a refreshing blended house margarita and a plate of tacos each. Nothing soothes you after a long day at work like good food with good friends. And nothing soothes your weary pocket book like some amazing happy hour deals! Sol Cocina had a plethora of happy hour specials to offer, and the deals went on all night long! Not only this, but we were serenaded with live music (The music mostly acoustic covers done with a mexican flare. Ever heard Bush's Glycerine mariachi style? You haven't lived until you have), our drinks were prepared by big wave surfer and reigning Billabong XXL Ride of The Year winner Greg Long who was guest bartending, and we got to watch the Lakers win the first game of the season from our comfy seats by the roaring fire.

You can enjoy the same incredible extended happy hour through Saturday. Don't forget to check out the other great local restaurants participating in OC Happy Hour Week here.

Bottoms up!

Amy
Listening to: Band of Horses' "Monsters"

OC Happy Hour Week

Happy Hour. The lifesaver at the end of your sinking ship of a day. The Good Samaritan that won't rob your wallet blind for a cocktail or beer. The reason to get your drink on before 5 o'clock. Well you can all send your "thank you"s to the Orange County Restaurant Association now, because hot on the heels of Orange County Restaurant Week they kicked off the 2nd Annual Happy Hour Week! The festivities began yesterday and will continue through Saturday October 30th. Some of the amazing local restaurants participating are Daily Grill, The Crow Bar, 320 Main, Ten Asian Bistro, K'ya Bistro, and more! Check out a list of Happy Hour Week highlights below.

So head out to one of these fine locations and grab a glass of wine, a pint of beer, or a jack and coke - and make it a double. Consider it the fulfillment of your duty as a responsible Orange County citizen to support local business. Cheers!

ALL DAY + ALL WEEK HAPPY HOURS

·  118 Degrees  - $4 Tapas plates and $7 cocktails like the Mayhem Margarita

·  Bluewater Grill -All Day + All Week Happy Hour With $4, $5 & $6 Food And $5 Drink Specials

·  Catal and Uva Bar  - Sit and Relax at our Outdoor Uva Bar and enjoy our happy hour All Day + All Week.

·  Il Giardino  - $5 Cocktails & $6 Caprese, Calamari, Pizza, Fried Mozzarella and $7.50 for Antipasto Platter, Clams & Mussels

·  ECCO Happy Hour Specials ALL DAY Long . Food $3-$8 and Beer & Cocktails Only $3-$6

·  Kimera - $5 well, $5 wine, $5 Leblon caipirinha cocktail, $5 draft beer.

Enjoy their $10 Burger & Beer Combo or amazing small plates featuring their Charcuterie & Cheese bar.

·  Original Mike's - Half Price Appetizers + $2.25 Domestic Beer, $3.00 Imported Beer, $3.00 Margaritas, $3.00 House Wine, $3.00 Well Drinks (All day long in the antique bar and patio)

·  Savannah Chop House - $5 Appetizers such as Kobe Beef Sliders, Grilled Margarita Pizza and Calamari. Plus $2 Beer, $5 Well Drinks, Martinis, Wine, Champagne Cocktails. (All day all week in the lounge)

·  Ten Asian Bistro - All Day All Week - Appetizers & Chefs Specials $5, Cocktails $5 and $3 Drafts

·  The Crow Bar and Kitchen – All Day, All Night, All Week!!!

Amazing Small Plate Specials $54-$8, $5 mixed well drinks, $5 select wines by the glass, $4 select draft beers, 20% off all bottled beer, 15% off all wines by the bottle from our award winning wine list

·  Tommy Bahama's Island Grille – $5 Wine, $3 All Beers,

$6 Cocktails - ~ Bahia Sangria, Millionaire's Mai Tai, Margarita, Mojo My Mojito 

$5 Appetizers ~ Big Island Goat Cheese, Tommy's World Famous Coconut Shrimp, Laguna Beach Duo of Dips In the bar area and front patio ALL Day accept during Island Time:

EXTENDED HAPPY HOURS

·  El Torito – 13 LOCATIONS TO CHOOSE FROM - All Week Long - 2pm-8pm (Cantina Only)

$3 Original Gold Margaritas, $3 Domestic Drafts, $3 Well Drinks!, $3 Wine!

Plus 16 Discounted Food Specials starting at $1.99

·  Bistango 13 different Tapas Items only $6.00 and $5 Blue Ice Martinis or Cocktails only $6

From 5:00 until Close

·  Canyon - 9 delicious appetizers only $2.50 - $7 from 11:30 – 10pm

·  Cha Cha's Taco & Tequila - $5 Handcrafted Margaritas, Mojitos, Sangria

$4 Beers + Half off ALL appetizers – come party till we close.

·  Daily Grill – Irvine – Appetizers only $2.95 and cocktail Specials 2pm - Close

·  Derby Deli and Dueling Piano Bar  - $2 domestic draft pints,1/2 off select appetizers. $3 import/premium draft pints, $5 well drinks $5 house wine 2-7pm

·  Commonwealth  Newport & Fullerton - $4-$6 Appetizers, Well Cocktails $4, Crafts on Draft $4, Select Martinis & Boutique Wines $5

·  Fire and Ice  - $3, $4 & $5 Food & Cocktail Specials

·  Matador Cantina - Join them Sunday with their special Halloween Cocktails -  try a Jacks Smirking Revenge. Plus $3 Beers, $4 Wells, $5 Calls, $3 Wines, $5 Appetizers 11am – 8pm

·  Riptide Sushi – ½ off Select Appetizers, $3.00 off sushi, Wine, Well Drink & Beer Specials.

·  Sorrento Grille – Their Amazing $4, $6, $8 Happy Hour is extended 5pm- closing

·  The Rooftop Lounge - Monday-Friday 2-6pm  - Half Off All Mojitos, Beer, Wine and Well Drinks! $6

·  TAPS Fish House and Brewery – 11am – 7pm

Selected Appetizers $6. TAPS Signature Martinis Apple-tini, Cosmopolitan, Lemon Drop $6. Handcrafted Traditional European Style Ales & Lagers $4 Pitchers $14, Well Drinks $5  Selected Wines $5

·  The Catch - Happy Hour Week Hours 11am – 7am (in the Lounge)

The “Standard” Martinis 600 Cosmo. Appletini. Lemon Drop

The Catch Signature Pomeberry Martini $5 

Draft Beer TAPS Fish House & Brewery Award-Winning Cream Ale, Hefeweizen, Irish Red, Bud Light. Well Drinks, Selected Wines $5, Happy Hour Appetizers $6

·  Zov's - Newport & Irvine 4 – Close nightly (available at the bar and select tables)

Bar Appetizers - $5, $7 Specialty Martinis, $6 well drinks & $5 beer on tap

·  Zov's Bistro  (Mon – Sat   4 – Closing) $7 Specialty Martinis, $6 Well Drinks, 2 For $12 Appetizers

Plus Extended Happy Hours at Sage Eastbluff, McCormick & Schmick’s and Port

Visit Happy Hour Week online for the full list!

- Amy

Listening to: Jack White & Loretta Lynn's "Portland, Oregon"