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"

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"

Things to do this weekend in OC: 2/10-13

I don't want to hear any complaining that there's nothing fun to do in Orange County - not this weekend, of all weekends! There's so much happening! I've put together an abridged list of some fun things happening starting tonight through Sunday night- from live music to theater to kids' events! Check it out:

Feb. 7th-13th: the Laguna Beach Music Festival
Laguna Beach Music Festival is a week-long event in scenic Laguna Beach, California, presented by Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County. Dedicated to artistic excellence and innovation, each Festival stars prominent and promising musicians in a variety of activities to attract both the casual listener and the aficionado, who share space in the Festival’s intimate, human-scale venues.

Through Feb. 20th: A Midsummer Night's Dream at South Coast Repertory
>Led by the wildly inventive director Mark Rucker, off go four young lovers into The Woods on a midsummer evening—when strange and wonderful things are likely to happen.  This shimmering Shakespearean fantasy features the antics of supernatural creatures—the fairies led by Oberon and Titania and, of course, the impish Puck, who creates chaos in the night.  But what fun to join in the dream, knowing that by daylight all will be well in a mystical, moon-drenched masterpiece. Read our review of it here!

Thurs, 2/10: Valentine's Day with Natalie Cole
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, an “Unforgettable” concert featuring the incredible Natalie Cole, backed by a full symphony orchestra. Warm, tender and heartfelt, her singing preserves the treasured standards made famous by her father, while adding her own touches of jazz, swing, soul and pop.

2/10: The Who's Tommy
The Who’s Tommy is a roof-raising musical explosion based on The Who’s 1969 concept album. This exhilarating story of hope, healing and the human spirit is filled with iconic hit songs like "Pinball Wizard," "See Me, Feel Me," "Acid Queen" and more. Pete Townshend’s Tony Award-winning tale of a young boy’s journey from pain to triumph is the most electrifying evening of rock and roll ever to play in a theatre!

2/10: Fitness Hike in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
8:30am to 10:45am
Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 6.82-mile hike (700-ft. elevation gain) over very steep, uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers. $2 donation per person. Ages 15 and up.
Reservations required: 949-923-2235.
Ridge Park Staging Area (Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Rd east to end; meet at the gate.)

2/10: Tideland Tykes
10:30-11:30am at Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center in Newport. Join Preserve staff for a fun-filled parent and child experience that may include arts and crafts, story telling, hands-on activities or outdoor nature walks. Come prepared for an exciting outdoor experience! $5 per child, parking is free. Please call (949)923-2275 or email unbic@ocparks.com to register (required).

2/11 through 2/27: Lucky Duck at SCR
The Ugly Duckling meets “American Idol,” with music by the composer of Dreamgirls! This rollicking riff on a favorite fairy tale begins in the barnyard, where things aren’t going so well for a waterfowl named Serena. She’s got great pipes but is lacking in the looks department, so off she goes to the big city where she lands a wolf agent and gets a fabulous make-over.  But as her journey toward superstardom progresses—with help from her animal friends (including a few that step in from other fairy tales)—Serena discovers that fame is only feather deep.

2/12 Caspers Campfire Program
7-8pm at Caspers Wilderness Park in San Juan Capistrano. Come join a Ranger for an hour of fun and learning about Caspers Wilderness Park. Their Campfire Program may include a slide presentation, wilderness safety, games, and activities for children, animal adaptations, skins and skulls, a live animal demonstration, and a chance to visit the Nature Center. Ages 12 and up with adult supervision. Free to attend, $5 to park. Call (949) 923-2210 for more info. All ages welcome.

2/12: ABC Pilates Open House
Lynne Curtin from the Real Housewives of OC with be giving a trunk show of her jewelry, purse, and bedding line at ABC Pilates. Come visit for wine, choclate, specials, and meet the owners of Fitness Inside Out, Loredana Yoga, OC Skincare, and Lashes. During the open house, ABC Pilates will be offering a FREE 50 minute work out class that incorporates TRX, Ballet Barre, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and Yoga. Sign up for your spot in the class- space is limited! Email info@abcpilates or call 949-305-3310 for more info.

2/12: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago at the Irvine Barclay
8pm. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago has been invited back to the Barclay nearly 20 years to the day after its first performance here during the theatre’s first season. Since then, the company has evolved into one of the "cultural treasures” of its dynamic home town. In addition to the skilled proficiency of its two-dozen dancers and its first-class production values, HSDC possesses one of the finest and most extensive repertoires of any American company. Tickets $25 and up.

2/12 & 13th: Villa Rockledge Valentine's Celebration
1-5pm both days. Spend Valentine's in style at the historic Villa Rockledge in Laguna Beach. Stroll the terraced grounds of the oceanfront estate as you sip a signature cocktail and indulge in gourmet appetizers. Guests are invited to explore the estate on a private tour and see the exquisite architectural details while learning the history of this beautiful home. $35/person, $75/couple. For tickets call (949)715-6950 or buy online at villarockledge.com.


2/13: Caspers Nature Hike
9-10am at Caspers Wilderness Park in SJC. Join Park Rangers for an easy 1-mile hike on their nature trail. The trail takes visitors through grassland, oak woodland, riparian, and sandy cactus scrub communities. A wide variety of plant and animal life is found in these areas. Free to attend, $5 to park. All ages welcome. Call (949)923-2210 for more info.

2/13: Music For Lovers
Goldenwest College's Chamber Singers and Early Music Ensemble present Music For Lovers. Performance will be held in Forum II: Room 101. Admission $10-12. Call (714) 895-8150

Happy weekending! :)


-Blythe


on my iTunes: The Arcade Fire's "Keep the Car Running"

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"

Tips for this Valentine's Day from the Bra Whisperer

With Valentine's Day a little over two weeks away, we went to Susan Nethero, the Bra Whisperer herself (featured on Oprah, The Today Show, The Tyra Banks Show, and founder of Intimacy Boutique), and asked for some tips for creating an intimate occasion.

OCG: What are the current lingerie trends people can expect for Valentine's Day and going into the spring season?

SN: The colors this year are exquisite! Lots of purple, red, fuchsia, electric blue and turquoise. This was evident on the red carpet during the golden globes.  White is also being considered as a color trend in bras.

These same colors also hold true in sleepwear. We are seeing that bust support is still the order of the day, with silhouettes that fit a little looser around the middle.

For gifts later in the spring season, the "it" bra colors are more mutely toned taupes, creams, and peaches.

OCG: Any hot new brands/bras and personal current favorites to look out for ?

-Aubade’s Etreinte Polynesienne bra and panty set really sets the mood for the perfect romantic getaway:

-Chantelle’s new Africa tie die bra in gorgeous hues of navy and electric blue is just stunning for valentine’s day and into the spring season:

-Love Love Curves Eva  is a darling chemise with a built in bust perfect for girls who need a little extra va-va-voom up top. 

-Else Bra Sized chemise, in contrast, is the ideal silhouette for the fuller bust as the bra sized silhouette has a gorgeous and flattering fit for the fuller busted gal.  

-And the Cosabella satin & lace because it’s just so sexy… provides the perfect baby doll silhouette!

OCG: Any fun/new accessories?

SN: We have a new really cute hanky panky called ‘etched rose’ that just arrived. It’s adorable- light pink a soft gray etched rose pattern:

OCG: Can you give us four tips for male Valentine's Day shoppers?

1) Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Men can get a little freaked out and embarrassed, but most men will find that our staff is extremely professional and very eager to help him choose the perfect gift.

2) Take a peek in her lingerie drawer when she isn’t looking. Pay attention to colors she’s drawn to, as well as sizes and fabrics so that you have a good idea of what she likes.

3) Pick something out that you like too! After all, even if it’s a little out of her comfort zone, she is going to want to look attractive for you.

4) Lingerie pairs well with soft candle light, romantic music, maybe a bubble bath and some champagne? Take the time to create a romantic space for your honey! Women can feel insecure about their bodies, and setting the mood can really help to uplift her confidence!

Intimacy also tries to make it extremely easy for male shoppers whose wives/girlfriends/friends have been in before.  Each customer has a profile in our customer system, where they can keep track of what styles and sizes have been purchased.  This profile system allows men to be able to come in and look up their significant other's bra track record for tips, ideas, and even see if they have anything on their wish list!

Visit Intimacy's website and Facebook for more tips and secrets about how the right bra can make you look and feel your sexiest! 

-Blythe

on my iTunes: The Shins' "New Slang"

MaeMae Paperie on Martha Stewart's blog!

Some of you might remember when we included a spotlight on Megan Gonzalez of MaeMae Paperie about a year and a half ago? We were so excited to find out that MaeMae Paperie was featured on Martha Stewart's Wedding blog last Thursday! We couldn't be more thrilled- we love seeing local artists grow and receive recognition! Keep it up, Megan!

Read our article on MaeMae Paperie here (on p. 18)
Check out Martha’s blog to see MaeMae’s feature!
Visit MaeMae's blog too!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Beirut's "Nantes"

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"

A Tribute to the Gypsy Lounge

Below is a photo essay/documentary that Amy Kaplan made about The Gypsy Lounge. We thought we'd share it with you as a way of remembering one of OC's gems that will be closing its doors in the very near future.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Devotchka's "Along the Way"

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"

Reign Poker Tournament Results

You might remember last week's post about the Reign Poker Tournament Fundraiser? Well, it happened and it was a success!

There was a whole slew of fighters in attendance, who signed autographs, including: Mark Munoz, Krzysztof Soszynski, Urijah Faber, Chad Mendes, Fabricio Werdum, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Jay Silva, and Joe Henle. There was a group of professional dealers (many of which were fighters!): Joe Henle, Krzysztof Soszynski, Mark Munoz, King Mo Lawal, Brett Cooper, and Raphael Davis.

The event raised almost $2,000 to benefit Team Reign Kids! The winner of the tournament was Todd Norman, who won two tickets to UFC 125 in Las Vegas on January 1st. Over 40 people played in the tournament, and over 30 people donated baked goods for the bake sale. It was a great turn out with great return!

The proceeds from the event will be used to pay for Reign kids gear (shirts, shorts, hats, singlets, and coaches fees).

Thanks to all who made it out and made it a great success!

-Blythe

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"

Pro Poker, Ragin' Raffles, and Raja's Famous Bake Sale!

[click to enlarge flier]

This Saturday, December 18th, Reign Training Center in Lake Forest is hosting a Poker fundraiser, complete with pro fighters as dealers, autographed shirts, shorts, hats, and boxing gloves (by Mark Munoz, Krzysztof Soszynski, Urijah Faber, Chad Mendes, Joseph Benavidez, Mayhem Miller, Kand many more) as raffle prizes, and delicious sandwiches catered by Mr. Pickles! 

Here's all the info:

Why:  To raise money for Reign Kids' Program
When: Saturday, December 18
Time:  2 pm
Where: Reign Training Center (22600 Lambert St, Ste #1201, Lake Forest)
Cost:  $25 pre-registered, $40 at the door
What to bring:  Baked goods for Raja to sell
Dealers will be pro athletes

Winner of the tournament will win two tickets to UFC 125 on January 1st, 2011 in Las Vegas! 

Raffle Items:

-Android Phone from Boost Mobile

-Autographed Shirts, Shorts, Hats, & Boxing Gloves by Mark Munoz, Krzysztof Soszynski, Urijah Faber, Chad Mendes, Joseph Benavidez, Mayhem Miller, Kand many more!

And if you're worried because you don't know how to play poker, don't be! They will teach you how! 

A Shameless Endorsement for Pura Vida Day Spa's Facials

[The lovely Pura Vida staff]

My friend asked me the other day who she should go to for a great facial. Without hesitation I replied, Marilee Miller at Pura Vida Day Spa. Now, I know what half of you are thinking out there: spas are for prissy, rich girls with money to blow. Or, at least that's what I used to think. I didn't even consider going to get a facial at a day spa, because 1) I assumed it would be way out of my budget, 2) I didn't think it was worth the money, and 3) I thought the atmosphere would be snobby.
I'm willing to accept when I'm wrong, and Pura Vida proved my day spa stereotype WAY wrong.


I discovered Pura Vida Day Spa because they are conveniently located in the same business complex as The OC Gazette office. I would run into the Pura Vida girls in the parking lot and was always amazed at how friendly and nice they all were. One day, they invited our whole office over to their Grand Opening party where they were giving out free mini facials, massages, microdermabrasion samples, food, wine, and more. We gladly accepted, and thus my love affair with facials began.

My skin isn't perfect. It used to be really awful when I was in middle school. (Think the zitty faced teenager with the cracking voice in The Simpsons - see above.) Thank God I grew out of that stage, but nonetheless, my face is a highly volatile place that can be agitated at the slightest provocation, so I still have to actively take care of it to keep it clear. After getting a mini facial from Marilee Miller at the Grand Opening party, I noticed my skin was significantly smoother and more evenly toned. After seeing such significant improvements in my skin after just a 5 minute mini-facial, I scheduled a full on 60-minute session with the lovely Marilee. I don't know how to stress it enough (without sounding like an infomercial) how much my skin improved. Between the Clarisonic, the peels and scrubs, and the Jan Marini face wash she used, my skin was smooth and even, with hardly a blemish in sight.


Besides the obvious joy of having great skin, my whole experience at Pura Vida is always enjoyable. I am always greeted with a smile and a joke from the wonderfully fun and hilarious spa manager, Anita. No one was hoity toity or snooty, and yet the environment was still relaxing and indulgent. Best of all? The price was so reasonable. Only $90 for a facial. And the time I went, I used a coupon in The OC Gazette for new clients, so I only had to pay $69! I go to see Marilee every month or so now to have her work her magic on me. If you think about it in those terms, you're only spending 2 dollars a day for amazing skin. For any of you that have had uneven or "problem skin," you know that is so worth it.


Check out Pura Vida Day Spa for yourself. Say hi to the ladies for me! 


A PRESENT FOR OC GAZETTE BLOG READERS!
If you tell them Amy Hood from The OC Gazette sent you you'll get the amazing one-hour Facial PLUS a one-hour Massage for only $99. That's 2 whole hours of relaxation! With all the stress and strain of the holiday season, I think we could all use a little more R&R.


Don't forget that they offer Student, Teach and Military Discounts!


Pura Vida Day Spa
(949) 582-3551
Located in Three Flags Center
27601 Forbes Road, Suite 5
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
www.puravidadayspa.com

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"

Veteran's Day Deal

Today is Veteran's Day, the annual federal holiday when we honor the men and women who have served our great nation in any war. Do you know a veteran? Are you a veteran? We appreciate your service all days of the year, and stop and honor you today. Why today? Why November 11th? As some of you know, at 11am on November 11th, 1918, an armistice - or ceasing of hostilities- was declared between the Allied nations and Germany during WWI. The following year, the day was honored once again, under the moniker "Armistice Day." The day became a federal holiday in 1938, and after WWII and the Korean War, the day was called "Veteran's Day" to honor American veterans of all wars. Read more about the history of Veteran's Day on History.com.

Today we say thank you, veterans! Not all of us are made of the same rugged, nation-defending DNA, so we applaud your heroic efforts and your dedication to making our country the freedom-loving nation it is.

That being said, I encourage the rest of our readers to do their part in supporting a vet! There are plenty of businesses owned and operated by U.S. vets that you can support. One of our beloved clients in the OCG is one such business:

Beach Cities Computer is owned and operated by Toby Sanford, a U.S. Navy Veteran with over 20 years of experience with computer repair and maintenance. Toby is a Microsoft Certified Professional, has an Associates Degree in Information Technology (that's the I.T. in "Call our I.T. guy, stat!"), and proudly serves all of Orange County. Beach Cities Computer offers on-site or remote computer service, computer upgrades and repair, security checks and installation, backups, wireless networking, and much more.

If you've got a heart for veterans or a finicky computer (or both!), call Beach Cities Computer!  And guess what?  

Mention The OC Gazette and you'll get 20% off your first job!*

Call or email today for a FREE consultation!
949-842-4368
toby@bccomputer.us

Find and follow Beach Cities on Facebook by clicking here.
*Offer for new clients only. Expires November 30th, 2010. Check the December issue of The OC Gazette for another great offer for first time clients!

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"