Ysidora

Inn at the Mission

by Dina Scaglione

“Mi casa es su casa” is clearly more than a charming platitude at Ysidora. From the moment you enter the Inn at the Mission’s showcase restaurant, you feel yourself instantly unwind, soothed by the warm colors and inviting textures, lured by the earthy scents of grilled fare and the lull of soft mood music beckoning you to stay awhile. 

From fresh harvested seafood to locally raised meats and seasonal produce, Ysidora evokes something of another time. Committed to supporting local businesses and taking the “a rising tides lifts all boats” philosophy, their commitment to family, heritage and hospitality is undeniable. Snuggle up to the enormous fireplace, sink into cushiony oversized couches and allow yourself to drift away with a specialty cocktail in hand. Don’t let the exquisitely detailed blend of traditional and transitional decor fool you. Ysidora is an accessible haven for tourists and locals alike — seeking tasty diversity in their culinary adventures. 

The incomparable list of starters includes the usual suspects, but amongst those standouts is a ribeye carpaccio with fresh watercress, chimichurri sauce and truffle oil, capped with thin shavings of Manchego for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The bacon steak al pastor pork belly, adorned with an abode chimichurri sauce and herb infused oil, is crispy and full of texture. Mainstays include the seasoned-to-perfection Grilled Octopus — tender and smoky, paired with an unexpected, but apropos side of potato salad. The Hangar steak is flavorful and juicy, complemented by a tasty pinto bean sauce. Another comfort food favorite is the lean, but generously portioned double cut pork chop with cabernet molasses. When it comes to dessert, I would highly recommend the homemade to-die-for butter cake, served slightly warm and topped with marinated berries and whipped cream. 

With its welcoming ambiance and delectable cuisine, escape is within reach at Ysidora. Come for the food, stay awhile, and take in a slice of local history. In its contemporary upbeat atmosphere, locals and tourists alike will enjoy an eclectic array of thoughtfully curated selections and familiar comfort foods in one inviting space. 

Ysidora is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Outdoor entertainment, on the expansive mission-themed patio, happens Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Don’t miss the hearty Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Ysidora — Inn at the Mission
26907 Old Mission Road
San Juan Capistrano • 949.503.5720

San Clemente Villas by the Sea

Resort Senior Living… On The Coast!

From the moment you walk through the doors at San Clemente Villas by the Sea, you’re welcomed by friendly smiles and a courteous staff who care. The luxury senior living facility is owned and operated by the Brazeau family, and this year they celebrate 20 years in business. Paul and his wife, Aileen, built the Villas in 2002. Following Paul’s passing in 2019, the family has carried on his tradition of delivering excellence and exemplary service, in a fun and friendly environment. To honor founder Paul Brazeau’s legacy, the family puts their hearts and souls into every aspect of making San Clemente Villas a warm and comfortable place for its residents, and the difference is evident. 

San Clemente Villas is the only family-owned and operated assisted living community in Southern California. The Brazeau family plays an active role in the day-to-day operations at the Villas, and they are very involved in maintaining the high level of care and meeting the expectations their father established. Paul Brazeau often referred to San Clemente Villas by the Seas as “The cruise ship that never sets sail,” and it’s easy for visitors to understand why. 

Beautiful, well-appointed apartments, some with coastal views, balconies or patios, offer residents ample living space with a coastal flair. Vaulted ceilings are also offered in many units, giving the spaces an expansive feel. The lavish, heated pool and jacuzzi boast an ocean view and provide opportunities for relaxation, poolside happy hours, special events, and outdoor exercise. An aqua therapist, available weekly, is also provided to residents at no additional charge. 

San Clemente Villas offers month-to-month residential options, in comparison to the expensive buy-ins required at many other corporate-run retirement communities. Rates include fine dining with three delicious home-cooked meals daily, weekly housekeeping, bedding and bath laundry services, all utilities (except telephone and upgraded cable), an emergency alert system and much more. A scheduled transportation system assists residents in getting to and from local appointments, along with taking them to a wide array of activities, entertainment and social programs. 

For residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, the Memory Care Unit provides one-on-one attention in a safe, healthy, and secure environment. With ample caregivers per shift, a dedicated nurse and medical technicians, seniors in this comprehensive program can be assured of 24-hour, individualized care from experienced specialists. 

Paul’s son, Dan Brazeau, shared this message regarding his family’s appreciation for the outpouring of love and kindness they received after his father’s passing… 

“On behalf of our family, I would like to thank all of our residents, family members, local businesses and our beautiful San Clemente community for 20 years of support. With the passing of my father, Paul Brazeau, we lost the patriarch of our family. His dream was for San Clemente Villas to remain a family-owned and operated luxury senior care facility. I have owned and operated a successful assisted living facility in the Inland Empire since 2006. As a licensed RCFE Administrator, I was fortunate to be included in the location and development of San Clemente Villas — along with Paul’s wife Aileen Brazeau and my siblings, Mark Brazeau, Debbie Chapple and Leslie Brazeau. After my father’s passing, I stepped in to oversee the operations. We have made many improvements this year, including our new Woody Surf Bus rolling around town! We have some big plans for renovations in 2023, including Paul’s Bistro and Wine Bar (my father loved his wine!). Our family will continue to provide excellent care and beautiful amenities for years to come. We invite you to stop by for a tour soon, and see for yourself the exceptional lifestyle that we embrace with our senior guests!”

Give San Clemente Villas by the Sea a call to learn more or to arrange a private tour of the community.

FOR MORE INFO:
Email Info@SanClementeVillas.com or call Suzanne Bragg at (949) 489-3400 ext 110. 

San Clemente Villas by the Sea
660 Camino De Los Mares
San Clemente • 949.489.3400
SanClementeVillas.com
LIC # 306001485 

Holiday Gift Guide

Wrap Up Your Holiday Shopping! Stay Local. Shop Local.

SIRRJOHN MOTO

SirrJohn Moto is now open at The Outlets at San Clemente. Offering everything from electric motorcycles to mobility products, they provide superior customer service, affordability and high-quality products. SirrJohn Moto has the perfect ride for all ages. Their Black Friday sale is going on now!

101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, Ste. 174 | San Clemente
760.658.4739 | SirrJohnMoto.com

BUCKLEY & CO. JEWELRY

Get a gift that lasts forever and sparkles all throughout the year at Buckley & Co. Jewelry in San Clemente. Familyowned, this custom jewelry store specializes in engagement rings, wedding bands, custom rings, bracelets and neckwear. With an assortment of beautiful, readymade pieces, there is something for everyone on your list.

415 Avenida Pico, #D | San Clemente
949.218.1184 | BuckleyJewelry.com

PRONTO’S ITALIAN MARKET

Your fastest trip to Italy without getting on a plane! Find authentic Italian products directly imported from Italy reflecting regional diversity. Assemble Christmas baskets full of goodies (or Pronto’s will do it for you) according to your specific taste. Many of their products are organic with a wide selection of gluten-free options. Pronto’s also offers an Italian Wines Club with many benefits for the wine lovers in your life.

221 Avenida Del Mar, Unit A | San Clemente
949.503.3049 | ProntoItalianDeli.com

WILDFIRE MERCANTILE

Check out Wildfire Mercantile’s upscale selection of western wear featuring handmade boots from Justin, Lucchese, Old Gringo and Classic Stetson hats to outfit you from head to toe. Proudly made in the USA. Featured brands include Johnny Was, Double D Ranchwear, Tasha Polizzi, Cinch and Pendleton. For the best gifts in town… make it a Wildfire Christmas!

26850 Ortega Hwy., Unit K | San Juan Capistrano
949.240.6770 | WildfireMercantile.net

THE WICKERBEE

The Wickerbee offers a wide variety of unique gifts for everyone on your list. Drop in and check out the sneakers, vintage clothing, street clothing, and local art. Buy, sell and trade.

211 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A | San Clemente
949.272.8120 | TheWickerbee.com

SWISS CONNECTION

Dress up the holiday season with a spectacular gold and diamond bangle from Luvente. It makes a fabulous present for that special someone who wants to sparkle and shine all year long.

32565 Golden Lantern, Ste. A | Dana Point
949.488.0900 | JeanJacquesMamie.com

THE OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE

The Outlets have the perfect gift for everyone this season. Snag a gift card at Customer Service this December for your friends and family, valid at more than 60 stores and eateries. Become an Elite Rewards Member this holiday season and enjoy the VIP Lounge, where you can take a break from your shopping spree to relax with an adult beverage. Sign up today to receive exclusive discounts and start earning points towards your free membership.

101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa | San Clemente
949.535.2323 | OutletsAtSanClemente.com/elite-rewards

LAVISH HOME DÉCOR

Lavish offers luxury home furnishings and unique gifts and accessories, including Voluspa candles, diffusers and a wide array of holiday-inspired decor.

31105 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. C4 | San Juan Capistrano
949.429.8881 | LavishHomeDecor.com

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

Let Nothing Bundt Cakes sweeten your day! Choose from up to ten delicious Bundt flavors made from the finest ingredients and crowned with signature cream cheese frosting. Elevate your occasion by selecting from unique handcrafted cake designs themed around holidays and celebrations.

638 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 18 | San Clemente
949.649.2290

26534 Moulton Pkwy., Ste. #E | Laguna Hills
949.238.8700
NothingBundtCakes.com

MONACO JEWELERS

Beautiful, .5 carat diamond stud earrings start at just $299. Peruse a wide selection of stunning pieces for the lady or gentleman in your life.

33955 Doheny Park Rd. | San Juan Capistrano
949.489.3510 | JewelsByMonaco.com

STUDIO A PILATES

The gift of health and wellness never goes out of style and is always fun to give and to receive! Support the well-being of your loved ones this holiday season with carefully selected items completely customized for you and delightfully packaged by Studio A.

24849 Del Prado Ave. | Dana Point
949.218.0233 | StudioAPilates.yoga

DERMFX

Hop aboard DermFx’s Botox Express in Dana Point this December for gift cards and specials on skin products from Zo Skin and SkinMedica. As DermFx finishes the construction on its beautiful new location, the Mobile MedSpa offers Zo Retinol Skin Brightener, a 2022 Editor’s Choice by Elle Magazine, and SkinMedica’s TNS Recovery System. Treat your friends, loved ones, and yourself this holiday season!

34184 Pacific Coast Hwy. | Dana Point
949.487.5180 | DermFx.com

SONNY’S PIZZA

Sonny’s Pizza in San Clemente is offering delicious and authentic Italian marinara sauce. Pick up some hometown taste and a gift card this Christmas!

429 N. El Camino Real | San Clemente
949.498.2540 | Sonnys.com

SKIN RESTORE

Skin Restore offers clinical skin care treatments utilizing state-of-the-art equipment for resultsoriented outcomes. This holiday season, stop in for gift cards to take care of all the special people on your list. With the purchase of a $200 gift card, you will receive an extra $25 added to the gift card to use toward any treatment.

312 Avenida De La Estrella | San Clemente
949.545.7919 | SkinRestoreOC.com

TOOTSIES

Punctuate your bag with a hip guitar strap from Tootsies. Drop in for stylish footwear, purses and accessories this holiday season!

162 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.441.7343 | Instagram: @tootsies_shoeboutique

THE ABODE

Come shop at The Abode during the holidays. You’ll find gifts for everyone on your list, all under one roof. Stop by this historic Ole Hanson home for treasures from local artists, handmade art, foodie treats, decorations, garden accessories, cozy clothing, unique antiques, furniture and more.

228 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.545.7998 | TheAbodeSC.com

BUNGALOW J BOUTIQUE & INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO

Bungalow J is your onestop-shop during the holiday season and beyond. Shop the globally curated selection of home decor, gifts and everything you’ll need to make your home sparkle and shine. Not sure what to get the person who has everything? No worries, the boutique offers gift cards starting at $50 and complimentary gift wrap!

145 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.478.1780 | BungalowJ.company.site

PARADISE II

Step into Paradise II Jewelry and find the perfect accessory or gift. Check out their large selection of local sterling silver designers, soy based Trapp candles, Latico fine leather bags and more.

166 Avenida Del Mar | San Clement
949.361.6661 | Instagram: @paradiseiijewelry

RASCAL’S LADIES BOUTIQUE

Give the gift of cozy with P.J. Salvage novelty flannels from Rascal’s. The ladies in your life will love lounging in style and comfort in these festive and fun designs.

114 Avenida Del Mar, #2 | San Clemente
949.492.4621 | RascalsLadies.com

OLIVER’S OLIVE OIL

Oliver’s Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Gallery has the
perfect gift for the foodie in your life. World class olive oils, sea salts,
seasonings, retro-style reversible aprons, hostess items and more are
awaiting you in downtown San Clemente.

211 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. C | San Clemente
949.497.6917 | OliversEVOO.com

MELROSE IN THE OC

Find the best holiday gifts for moms, daughters, kids and more! Dress to impress for any occasion this season.

144 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.366.0561 | MelroseInTheOC.com

ERBA

Shop Erba for bath bombs that are sure to please. Make every bath Festive AF!

114 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.492.2355 | Instagram: @erbasanclemente

MIKII’S ON DEL MAR

Dress up your tree with these fun and collectible mercury glass ornaments that are sure to bring smiles and laughter this holiday season! Find these and other unique gifts at Mikii’s On Del Mar in San Clemente.

220 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.503.3326 | Instagram: @MikiisOnDelMar

PJ HARLOW

PJ Harlow’s super soft 100% Supima cotton and light stretch Modal French Terry Romper is perfect for lounging. This onesie is great for sunny, warmer climates and hot sleepers. Wear it all year long, indoors, or out. Surround yourself in unbelievable softness with PJ Harlow’s satin pillowcase sets. The silky soft, sham-style pillowcases are the perfect gift for dreamers of all ages.

221 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A | San Clemente
714.532.5778 | PJHarlow.com

BEACHFIRE BAR & GRILL

Light up your holidays and experience BeachFire. Featuring live music, local art, delicious food and spirits, BeachFire will keep you coming back. Purchase $100 in gift cards and get a $20 gift card bonus.

204 Avenida Del Mar | San Clemente
949.366.3232 | BeachFire.com

Sawdust Art & Craft Festival

Winter Fantasy

Winter Fantasy is a one-of-a-kind holiday art festival that offers a festive shopping experience. Visitors are invited to peruse unique, handcrafted gifts of art from 150 local and international artists and makers. Open every Saturday and Sunday from November 19th until December 18th, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., including Black Friday, November 25th and Friday, December 16th. 

Opening Day began with the annual tree-lighting ceremony and a musical performance by the Top of the World Elementary Honor Choir, followed by an observance honoring 18 community trees, decorated by local non-profits. Laguna Beach residents receive free admission after 3 p.m. with a valid ID. 

Winter Fantasy delivers a festive entertainment schedule every day of the show! Three stages showcase live music by local musicians and community performances, and additional entertainment includes complimentary photos with Santa daily, marionette puppet shows, glassblowing, a petting zoo, balloon artistry, magic acts and much more! 

Three demo booths offer free hands-on festival art classes each day. Studio One and the Children’s Art Spot features painting, mixed media, and crafts for all ages, while the Ceramic Center provides a complimentary pottery wheel and hand-building experience. 

Winter Fantasy boasts six outdoor food concessions serving up a variety of Mediterranean, Mexican, American/Deli, vegan and vegetarian fare. A coffee shop and saloon provide a satisfying array of hot and cold beverages. 

Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors (65+), $5 for children (6–12) and $20 for a Season Pass. Veterans and children, ages 5 and under, enter free of charge. Advance tickets may be purchased online at SawdustArtFestival.org or in-person at the Box Office. 

WINTER FANTASY
935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
949.494.3030 • SawdustArtFestival.org 

FTC Kitchen

Healthcare Catering Service

Nourishment for Recovery

by Victoria Kertz

“We need a vegan! And we need a gluten-free meal!” Mary Carter’s voice carries to every corner of her bustling San Juan Capistrano kitchen. A flurry of cooks move through the space in quick, but graceful movements, while the most delightful aromas waft outside. Another team swiftly scoops hot food into takeout-style containers, snapped shut, stacked, and loaded into waiting vans with mesmerizing speed. No, this isn’t a new cooking show; it’s your average weekday morning at FTC Kitchen, a top supplier of delicious, healthy meals to over 900 group home residents from Los Angeles to San Diego. 

For Mary, cooking for people in recovery isn’t just a job; it’s a passion. Before founding FTC Kitchen with her husband Bruce in 2008, she was an educator in the food packaging industry. When a friend in the rehab/treatment business needed assistance with meals to a group home client, she saw firsthand how the residents were eating. Locations were serving pizzas and fast food, day after day. Mary immediately realized the need for a nutritional, cost-effective, and convenient meal service provider that would benefit both clients and staff. “These residents really need something healthy, cooked, and fresh,” she shares. “Clients are trying to change their lives and you can’t do that on Pop-Tarts and fast food.” 

Inspired to fill the obvious void, Mary began preparing and delivering healthy meals, while learning to accommodate the unique needs of group homes in Southern California. Her work ethic, integrity, and desire to give back to the local community have allowed her to expand business rapidly. Today, her service provides nourishment to dozens of facilities and allows operators to focus more on the treatment and recovery process. “We make it easy, and we make it affordable. And every meal comes from the heart,” she says. 

FTC Kitchen creates delicious meals that make you feel good and comfort your soul. Each meal is prepared fresh, nutritionally balanced, and tailored to individual needs. They offer a variety of cost-effective menus designed to fit a range of dietary needs within this industry, plus festive food for group home holidays and special in-house events. 

Mary adds that FTC Kitchen also offers ordering flexibility as occupancy may vary dramatically from day to day. “We’re here for the clients,” Mary says, “and we understand what a group home needs.” 

If you operate or manage a group home and would like to sample FTC Kitchen’s menu offerings, Mary and her team welcome the opportunity to schedule a consultation and complimentary tasting. They are proud to deliver fresh meals throughout Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties. 

Bruce and Mary’s understanding and knowledge, established over 14 years of hands-on experience, has inspired FTC Kitchen to launch franchise opportunities in 2022. With a trusted brand and the resources to train new franchise owners across the country, the business model can be easily scaled to reach residents nationwide. “As of today, there are over 23 million people in recovery,” Mary says. “Our one kitchen can only serve a fraction of them. Food is the one thing that keeps us together.” The first franchises will open soon in Georgia, Massachusetts, Texas, Arizona, and Orange County. 

Mary’s mission is to replicate the efforts of her San Juan Capistrano team from coast to coast. She wants prospective franchisees to understand that it’s not only a highly profitable business, but one that’s also gratifying. “We started with very little and built our company month by month and year by year, and it has truly flourished. We love what we do!” 

FTC Kitchen
31214 Paseo Adelanto #6
San Juan Capistrano
949.374.6190
FTCKitchen.com

45th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

The Dana Point Turkey Trot, owned and produced by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, will celebrate 45 years this Thanksgiving Day in the Dana Point Harbor. Nearly 10,000 participants will burn off those pre-Thanksgiving meal calories with a run or walk, including a 5K, 10K, or Kids’ 1-mile Gobble Wobble. 

Known for its scenic coastal routes and family-friendly activities, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has become an Orange County institution and was voted #1 Best Run/Race in the Orange County Register’s 2022 Best Of Orange County. 

Since its inception, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has raised more than half a million dollars for local nonprofit organizations. The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is a big believer in giving back and supporting fellow nonprofit organizations. 

This year, a portion of the race’s proceeds will benefit the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group and South County Outreach. Participants can also elect to make an additional donation to these deserving organizations during online registration checkout or take part in the Food & Toy Drive. 

The Chamber will host a Food & Toy Drive at the two-day Health & Fitness Expo and Packet Pick-Up. The public can drop off their donations during the hours below. Pre-packaged food and items will be donated to South County Outreach. Toys and gift cards will be donated to Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group. For a complete list of suggested donations, please visit TurkeyTrot.com/Food-Toy-Drive. 

Expo, Packet Pick-up, and Food & Toy Drive Hours: 

– Wednesday, November 23, 2022 at 12:00-6:00 p.m. 

– Thanksgiving Day / Race Day at 6:00-11:00 a.m. 

– Location: Dana Marina Plaza – 25001 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point 

Race participants can pick up their race packet (t-shirt and bib) at the two-day Expo & Packet Pick-up during the hours above. Visit event sponsors and vendors within the Expo for giveaways, special offers, and more. 

One of the largest turkey trots in the nation, this race is a USA Track & Field (USATF) sanctioned and certified event. Prize money is awarded to the first, second, and third place male and female finishers in the 10K race. There will also be a costume contest with awards for Best Kid, Best Adult, and Best Group Costumes. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costume to be eligible to win amazing prizes courtesy of event partners. For more information or to register for this year’s race, please visit TurkeyTrot.com. 

45th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot
949.496.1555
Twitter: @turkeytrot
Facebook: @danapointturkeytrot
TurkeyTrot.com

Top Docs 2022

Advanced Center For Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine

Advanced Dermatology

Cold Rush Wellness

DermFx

Elite Vein Institute

Frank Mogavero DDS

Griffin Optometric Group

Howard Optometry

Hydration Room

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

OC Skin Lab

Pediatric Dentistry

Platinum Dental

Riviera Laser Studios

San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery

San Clemente Smiles

Sea View Pharmacy

Sendero Dental

South Coast Plastic Surgery

Trestles Chiropractic

OC Tavern

Grill + Concert Hall

by Dina Scaglione

There are few places in South OC where you can enjoy a dining experience and an adventure under one roof. At OC Tavern, savor a delicious meal with family or a craft beer at the bar with friends, a cocktail while taking in spectacular ocean views from the patio or catch a live game on one of the 60 HD TVs in the main room. You can even wager on live satellite horse racing, hear live music or host a private event. OC Tavern is far from your average sports bar or pub; it’s a comfortable and welcoming staple where locals have gathered for years. 

As you ease into the menu, choose from a large variety of traditional appetizers, including homemade rolled chicken taquitos, served with guacamole, pico de gallo and sour cream. The spicy San Clemente chicken wings consist of drums and wings, with your choice of sauces from buffalo, BBQ, or a tavern blend dressing. A must-have is the fried calamari — lightly fried and tender, paired with a zesty house-made chipotle marinara sauce. The fish and chips are understandably popular with generously portioned beer battered cod accompanied by a heaping scoop of tangy cole slaw, complemented with tartar sauce and steak fries. One of my faves is the Tavern Tacos, with your choice of grilled chicken, carne asada, carnitas, ground beef, beer-battered shrimp, served on corn tortillas and served with rice, black beans, house-made guacamole, and sour cream. OC Tavern’s tri tip beef is one of the most flavorful and tender around, as an entrée or atop a bed of chopped romaine and spinach, layered with diced tomatoes, mushrooms, avocado, and a house-made Italian dressing. 

Happy Hour features a wide assortment of craft beers and fun specialty cocktails and takes place Monday through Friday, from 3 to 7 p.m. and all-day Monday. Planning a corporate or private event Reserve your date now for the holidays and secure your choice of private rooms that seat 40 to 200. OC Tavern has it all, a distinct and laid-back venue to fit every mood and a menu to appease every palette. 

OC Tavern
2369 South El Camino Real
San Clemente
949.542.8877
OCTavern.com

MemorialCare

From Past to Present

MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano Focused on Family, Community and Wellness 

An Enriched Past — Investing in the Community
MemorialCare is rich in the modern-day history of San Juan Capistrano. In fact, MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano has served this community for more than 20 years. Dr. Craig Albert and Dr. George Karapetian – who worked out of the first, much smaller MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano site — are retiring after serving this community for more than 20+ years. 

These same physicians and their staff, along with MemorialCare leadership, knew the residents of San Juan Capistrano needed expanded access to health care. In 2015, the team at MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano moved into a 2-story, 25,000 square-foot space, nestled between the 5 Freeway and Marbella Country Club. 

“We knew we needed to do more for the health care needs of the community,” said George Karapetian, M.D., past medical director, MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano. “We were determined to give this community the ease of access to general care, along with specialized services.” 

This once small, but mighty practice turned into a one-stop shop for complete health care for the entire family – and opened with an on-site lab, digital imaging services and a Coumadin Clinic. It also offered access to care focused on improving health outcomes, including health promotion, disease prevention, health maintenance, counseling, patient education, and diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses. 

A Bright Future – Healthcare Advances Woven into Primary Care
Although it was just seven years ago since the re-investment in healthcare for the community of San Juan Capistrano, MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano is at it again. Even before the growth of the need for mental health services due to the pandemic, the team at MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano saw the need and brought on behavioral health as a service to the community. 

Not only is this Center complete with primary care physicians, but it includes specialists in pediatrics, podiatry and pulmonary medicine. Dr. Wong, a pediatrician at the Center, is a passionate advocate of pediatric healthcare – and strives to ensure a child’s needs are met first, specializing in understanding how to communicate and connect with children. In addition, an urgent care is available with the ability to check in online, provide virtual care visits and offer a virtual exam kit for the home. 

“What is truly remarkable about our Center is the ability for us to take care of the entire family,” says Mimi Trinh, M.D., current medical director, MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano. “From the working mom, who gets her primary care as well as her child’s well checks here, to someone in the sandwich generation, who has herself, her parent and her child’s care to coordinate — we have specialized care exclusive to each patient’s unique needs all under one roof.” 

Much like the City of San Juan Capistrano has adapted with changes through the years, so has MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano. New clinicians are joining to meet those growing needs of the community, including Dr. Sandy Serna, Dr. Vincent Zheng and nurse practitioner, Elizabeth Upson. 

More than 38 percent of the city of San Juan Capistrano’s population is Hispanic and Spanish speaking. Dr. Serna’s second language is Spanish, offering our community the comfort of knowing they can receive care in their family’s native language. Dr. Zheng is also passionate about healthcare equity and chose a career in medicine after experiencing his family’s difficult access to healthcare and health insurance. While he watched his father have to work through an injury, he wants to be the change for his patients. 

Finally, addressing the need for female care providers in the area, a new nurse practitioner is joining the group, giving women of South Orange County another female practitioner to turn to. 

Become a Part of the MCMG San Juan Capistrano Community
While MemorialCare Medical Group San Juan Capistrano has an illuminating past, the future too is bright for this Center as well as those who call MemorialCare Medical Group their medical home. 

MemorialCare Medical Group accepts most major HMO, PPO, EPO, POS and some Covered California plans, as well as Medicare, Tricare, Medicare Advantage and Supplemental plans. Visit memorialcare.org/SJC or call (877) 696-3622 for more information. 

MemorialCare
31001 Rancho Viejo Rd., Suite 200
San Juan Capistrano
877.696.3622
MemorialCare.org/SJC

The Rooftop Kitchen + Bar

by Dina Scaglione

It doesn’t get much better than a tasty craft cocktail, perched on a rooftop with a view of a fiery orange sunset. If that sounds appealing, then say hello to the area’s newest dining destination, Rooftop Kitchen and Bar in historic San Juan Capistrano. The tasty craft cocktails, farm-to-table specialties and hip, comfortable motif will keep you coming back for more. 

Longtime partners Marc Resnick and Archie Hami found this gem of a location, the former Ruby’s, amid the height of the pandemic and set their sights on creating something fresh and novel. Opening on Swallow’s Day in March 2022, RTK+B is delivering on that promise, complete with spectacular views, a California-coastal-meets-comfort-food menu, and artfully created craft cocktail libations. 

Enjoy a craft beer, glass of wine or one of several signature cocktails like Ring of Fire, with smokey mezcal, passion fruit, citrus and Aperol. Margarita lovers will delight as they sip the Gran Torino, infused with Patron Silver. Popular shareables include ahi and chips, stacked with ahi, avocado, tomato, and cucumber, swimming in a tangy dressing. The must-have fresh shrimp ceviche is loaded with shrimp, cucumber, carrot, tomato, red onion, jalapeno, and Tajin in a citrusy lime marinade. By far, the pulled pork sandwich with honey mustard barbeque sauce, classic cole slaw, pickles, and cilantro is the best handheld around. Generously portioned, yet price conscious entrees include the Capistrano Chicken with grilled chicken and fresh veggies, layered in a cream corn sauce. The savory short rib pappardelle pasta features braised short ribs, mushrooms, caramelized onion, and arugula, languishing in a flavorful stroganoff sauce. Meat lovers will appreciate the Ribeye Fillet, a hefty 8-ounce cut, accompanied by garlic, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and potatoes topped with a spicy gorgonzola sauce. Definitely check out the daily fresh-made desserts prepared by a local pastry chef. 

Live music happens Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m., and all afternoon on Sunday. Tunes run the gamut from light jazz to pop to country, certain to get you swaying to the rhythm, whether you are looking for a fun date night, a cozy family meal, or enjoying drinks with a group of friends. Planning your holiday party or sports banquet? RTK+B offers private banquet facilities for parties of 50 to 100. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. (dinner only Tuesday – Wednesday) and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. Stay tuned for more details on their Sunday brunch! 

The Rooftop Kitchen + Bar
31781 Camino Capistrano Ste. 301
San Juan Capistrano
949.503.3358
RooftopOC.com