Author Archives: the local dish

Paddy’s Station

Paddy's Station

Paddy’s Station

St. Patrick’s Festival

by Dina Scaglione

In February 2020, only weeks before the lockdowns, local businessman David Woodnutt took possession of The Vintage Steakhouse’s former location at the historic San Juan Capistrano Train Depot. He transformed the somber ambiance into a warm-spirited and unpretentious Irish Pub, welcoming locals and ex-pats alike. After the renovations were completed in May 2020, Paddy’s Station opened its doors to a neighborhood hungry for a sense of community, hearty grub and the alluring charm of the Emerald Isle.

Since the nineties, Dublin, Ireland has hosted multi-day St. Patrick’s Day festivals. At various cities throughout Ireland, you’ll find lively parades and joyful revelries including traditional music and green attire. At last, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, lock down restrictions in Orange County are lifting. Paddy’s Station invites the community to celebrate with a similar ten-day long festival, just as you’d experience in Ireland. The festivities kick off on Friday, March 12 and run through Sunday, March 21. The pub you have come to know and love will feature authentic St. Patrick’s Day activities to usher in the Irish spirit, including toe-tapping music, trivia night, dance lessons, karaoke, traditional dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, meat pies and an abundance of ales and adult beverages. I challenge other devout foodies to eat their way through the recently updated menu, augmented with more substantial meat dishes. Looking to fill your belly and savor the genuine flavors of St. Patrick’s Day? Special Irish dinners will be offered March 13th, 17th and 20th; contact Autumn for your table and dinner reservations at 949.525.6170.

If you’re looking to host a more intimate, private event, Paddy’s Station has you covered. The red train car, delightfully refashioned into a quaint cigar lounge, is ready for bookings any day of the week, from noon to midnight. Call 949.661.3400 to learn more. Come on by, kick up your heels and experience the luck of the Irish, jubilant festivities and tasty authentic fare.

Paddy’s Station
26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano
949.661.3400
paddysstation.com

Vision Real Estate and Design

Vision Real Estate and Design

Robyn Webb

Vision Real Estate and DesignVision Real Estate and Design is changing the way homes are bought and sold in Southern California. Their Design to Sell approach was groundbreaking, and although it’s often imitated by the biggest names in the business, it’s never been duplicated.

With 17 years of experience and over 100 successful Design to Sell projects completed, Vision Real Estate and Design confidently states their listings sell at record-high prices and set record lows for days on the market. They create jaw-dropping outcomes as they reimagine your home. By illuminating its beauty with carefully selected remodel improvements and model home-like staging, they capture the home’s essence with breathtaking photos and alluring videos. In short, the team designs aspirational spaces where buyers can’t help but imagine living the lives of their dreams.

Vision Real Estate and Design is led by Robyn Webb, a polished professional with a wealth of experience. A certified interior designer, Robyn works tirelessly to make sure each project has a current and cohesive design that appeals to the masses. Her model home-quality staging and breathtaking photos create stunning results. With her MBA in marketing from USC, Robyn’s exhaustive and cutting-edge marketing plans drive outcomes that break industry records. Her listings typically sell for 20% more than those of her competitors. Buyers quickly fall in love with properties appointed to perfection, and sellers receive the highest possible return on investment.

But excellence at Vision Real Estate and Design goes far beyond the visual realm. They are obsessed with excellence in all its forms. Their compassionate, diligent, tech-savvy agents are by your side from beginning to end, and dogmatically inclusive. Their goal is to create irresistible, memorable experiences, all while assuring that you attain your goals, whatever they may be.

If you are in the market for a new home, or are considering selling your existing property, contact Robyn Webb and her team at Vision Real Estate and Design. She’d welcome the opportunity to speak with you.

Vision Real Estate and Design
17815 Sky Park Circle, Suite A, Irvine
Cell: 714.328.5999 • 949.359.6572
robyn@californiavision.com
californiavision.com

Vision Real Estate and Design

The Awning Company

The Awning Company

Gary Kerr

The Awning CompanyFamily owned and operated, and with more than 20 years of experience in the industry, Scotland born Gary Kerr and his team at The Awning Company have the know-how, experience, and expertise to get your project done right. As a leader in the industry and the preferred vendor for all things awnings in Orange County, The Awning Company provides nothing less than unparalleled quality and service.

The Awning Company only sells American made products. Whether it’s retractable patio awnings, fixed awnings, or even retractable sunscreens, customers can take pride in knowing that they’re not only getting the best products but that they’re also helping American businesses in their efforts to compete in the world market.

It may sound bold, but The Awning Company is so confident in their products that they encourage customers to get at least two to three other quotes. Then they beat those written quotes without compromising on service or quality. You will find that their products are far superior and less expensive to what their competitors are offering. The bottom line is do not pay more for a cheap imported product when you can have a better, custom made, sun control product made right here in the USA at a lower price than anyone in Orange County.

Gary Kerr stated, “We appreciate all our loyal customers. Many longtime customers have moved homes over the years and they call us to create the perfect shade solution at their new home. We have been busy this past year making our client’s homes more comfortable and livable during COVID-19. I welcome the opportunity to assist you with any awning, shade or canopy needs!”

With excellent service, great rates, and quality craftsmanship and materials, The Awning Company has a stellar reputation throughout Southern California for delivering value.

The Awning Company
16811 Hale Ave, Suite E, Irvine
949.769.2485
https://theawningcompanyca.com/.com

The Awning Company

San Clemente Woodworking

San Clemente Woodworking

Ed Estrada

San Clemente WoodworkingSan Clemente’s Skilled Staircase and Railing Experts

Ed Estrada moved to San Clemente in 1989, three years after starting San Clemente Woodworking. This family-owned and operated staircase business specializes in elegant, custom staircases, including wood staircases, iron staircases, curved stairs, and stainless steel.

By sourcing and purchasing materials directly from local mills and manufacturers, the company is able to maintain competitive pricing. The skilled craftsmen at San Clemente Woodworking are experts in bending rails, custom woodturning, and precise duplication of architectural designs. Your beautiful, new staircase will be the envy of the neighborhood.

The staff at San Clemente Woodworking is committed to high quality workmanship in all aspects of a project, from design to installation. The company has grown to become one of the largest custom staircase builders in Southern California, providing comprehensive services to numerous residents and building contractors throughout the Orange County area.

Whether you’re renovating an existing staircase or installing a new one, San Clemente Woodworking prides itself on offering innovative designs and precision detail. Staircases are crafted using traditional woodworking techniques in your choice of wood, components and stain. If you can dream it; the team can create it.

Owner Ed Estrada says, “I’ve watched the transition take place throughout San Clemente during the past 30 years. Trends in staircases have changed. I’ve had the pleasure of working with great clients over the years. I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your next project, whether it’s updating your staircase or new
construction.”

Visit SanClementeWoodworking.com to view the photo gallery of the company’s work. Projects are also showcased on Houzz.com. Give Ed a call for more information and a quote for your next job.

San Clemente Woodworking
1030 Calle Sombra, Unit F, San Clemente
949.498.4397
sanclementewoodworking.com

San Clemente Woodworking

Cecilia’s Interiors

Cecilia’s Interiors

Cecilia Durkin

Cecilia’s InteriorsAt Cecilia’s Interiors, they take pride in every stitch they make! Since1969, Cecilia Durkin has been beautifying residential, business and marine interiors in South Orange County. She’s seen styles and fabrics change drastically since she started her business over 50 years ago. With her daughter, Lisa, diligently by her side, these two expert seamstresses have no need to ship out their client’s work. All projects are completed in the on-site workroom, within their corner showroom, located next to Mulligans in the industrial section of North San Clemente.

“It’s hard to believe I’ve been in business here for fifty years. We originally started up on Del Mar in the 70s, before making our way down to our current location. Our customers are extremely loyal and their referrals have continued to keep our business steady,” shares Cecilia.

Cecilia’s Interiors offers a wide range of products and services to fit its clients’ needs and lifestyles. The company proudly stands behind all of its work. Cecilia and Lisa believe in quality craftsmanship and they use only the best materials for their projects. Specializing in custom draperies and valances, furniture re-upholstery, slip covers and complete bed ensembles (bedspreads, skirts and shams), they welcome any job, no matter how big or small. For your convenience, the showroom houses an array of fabrics to complete your custom job, to suit your style and taste.

The company’s rave reviews speak for themselves. Ellendea T. in San Clemente recently posted on Yelp, “I entrusted my two Louis XVI chairs to Cecilia for reupholstering and was delighted with her work. Given the superb attention to detail, I would say the cost is quite reasonable. I highly recommend her. She is often busy, so book ahead for your project.”

Call on Cecilia’s Interiors for your next design or upholstery project. The showroom is open Monday through Friday to serve you. They are available for on-site consultations and estimates. As Cecilia smiles, she says, “We look forward to adding you to our long list of delighted clients!”

Cecilia’s Interiors
154 Calle De Los Molinos, San Clemente
949.492.0881
ceciliasinteriors.com

Cecilia’s Interiors

Sun Tamers

Sun Tamers

Frank Torriero

Sun TamersOwner Frank Torriero is Sun Tamers’ fearless leader. Since acquiring the company over 20 years ago, Sun Tamers has added twenty major product lines and services. Frank’s business warrior mentality has driven him to build a successful company with the best people. Sun Tamers’ products and processes has allowed it to exceed clients’ expectations and keeps them coming back for more.

“Just like the key to a man’s success is his wife, the key to a successful and sustainable business is its people,” says Frank. Sun Tamers’ technicians, staff and designers are seasoned professionals with extensive training and positive attitudes. Frank adds, “At Sun Tamers, we take great pride in our people and their many skillsets. There is no “I” in our team.”

Sun Tamers’ A-team includes Office Manager, Dawn Armstrong, who provides unparalleled customer service and knowledge with a big smile. Flat Glass Operations Manager, Marie Neighbors, offers more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry. For eye-catching graphics, Michael Sheurs is a distinguished designer and Sun Tamers’ Operations Manager for Graphics and Wraps. Carlos Huerta, a loyal member of Frank’s team, has worked with him for 19 years. Carlos’ work ethic and dedication to Sun Tamers’ clients is beyond compare.

Building a team of professionals is not easy in this day and age. As Frank says, “I am only as good as my people and my people are not just good, they are the best! I could not continue to serve over 6,000 clients a year, with all of the services we offer, without this team.” Frank is truly humbled by his incomparable team and he is beyond appreciative for their efforts. “I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to work with you and have you trust my company and team to get you the products and service you deserve,” he adds.

Sun Tamers carries only the highest quality products backed by national manufacturers. Its technicians are fully licensed and insured for your protection. Visit the showroom, schedule an appointment, or check out SunTamers.com to learn more about window tinting, graphics and window coverings.

Sun Tamers
28142 Camino Capistrano, Suite 108, Laguna Niguel
949.364.2800
suntamers.com

Sun Tamers

Pediatric Dentistry of San Clemente

Pediatric Dentistry of San Clemente

Pediatric Dentistry of San Clemente

Pediatric Dentistry of San ClementePediatric Dentistry of San Clemente (PDSCKids.com) warmly welcomes you into its immaculate, yet delightfully cozy office. With an emphasis on delivering comfortable care in a fun and entertaining space, every detail has been considered. From game stations in the reception area and ceiling-mounted TVs above each dental chair to sunglasses that soften the glaringly bright dental lights, the staff works to make your family’s visit as relaxing as possible. While teens particularly enjoy melting the day’s stress away in soothing massage chairs, younger ones look forward to receiving a helium balloon and selecting a treat from a wonderful treasure trove of toys at the end of a visit.

Under the meticulous direction of its founder, Dr. Jacob Lee, the highly experienced team at PDSC builds and maintains healthy smiles with the assistance of state-of-the-art technologies. The office utilizes revolutionary laser dentistry that reduces discomfort and minimizes scarring, advanced digital X-ray equipment that yields vital diagnostic images with the least radiation possible, and a purified water supply at each dental chair that employs a distilled, closed water system to maintain patient safety. Above all, the team undertakes numerous hours of continuing education to stay at the forefront of the latest scientific techniques to align with best dental practices.

Since PDSC’s doors opened in 2001, the practice has focused on preventive care to build a lifetime of healthy oral habits for infants, children of all ages, children with special needs, and young adults. After establishing a distinguished career as a dental materials researcher and a teacher/mentor to numerous aspiring pediatric dental specialists, Dr. Lee wanted to focus on raising his two young children. With the help of his wife, Sophie, a computer programmer, they embarked on creating a children’s dental office that offers expert dental care in a warm, positive, and comfortable environment. In addition, Dr. and Mrs. Lee contribute to local schools and community events. Their ultimate goal was to create a place where children actually look forward to going to the dentist!

Dr. and Mrs. Lee have two children, Aaron and Jina. Dr. Aaron followed in his dad’s footsteps to also become a pediatric dentist. He received his DDS from UOP School of Dentistry and then undertook an additional two years of specialist training at USC. Ms. Jina also chose to pursue a career in the dental field. After finishing her university education at Pepperdine, she completed extensive training to become a licensed, registered dental hygienist.

For over 20 years, the team at PDSC KIDS has been proud to meet the dental needs of infants, children, and teenagers. As their patients grew into adulthood, Dr. Crystal Lee, a general dentist, joined the team in 2020 to care for young adults with the same level of attention and excellence they had become accustomed to receiving. Adding a general dentist also allowed PDSC KIDS to build the healthy smiles of their young patients’ parents, who had long wanted to receive the same gentle care as their children. Dr. Crystal is not only a member of the PDSC family, she’s also married to Dr. Aaron, whom she met in dental school. After completing a highly competitive, combined six-year undergraduate/dental school program, Dr. Crystal continued residency training at the prestigious UCLA Hospital Dentistry Program. Now, the Lee family of dental professionals welcomes your whole family to their office as the team members meet all of your family’s dental needs.

Pediatric Dentistry of San Clemente
903 Calle Amanecer, Ste. 110, San Clemente
949.361.2838
PDSCKids.com

J.L. Ray Roofing

J.L. Ray Roofing

Jeff Ray

J.L. Ray RoofingServing the communities of Orange County since 1987, J.L. Ray Roofing has built a reputation for quality workmanship and unmatched professionalism—one project at a time. Jeff Ray and his dedicated team of highly skilled, full-service contractors are committed to getting the job done right, on time and with the highest level of customer satisfaction. Exceptional craftsmanship, the finest in materials and the best guarantees in the industry are what sets J.L. Ray Roofing apart from the rest.

The company’s mission statement succinctly represents its philosophy, “Our goal is to produce a superior level of customer satisfaction. We are committed to consistently producing high quality work through uncompromising workmanship, building long lasting relationships with our customers through honesty, forthrightness, and integrity, and maintaining an unrivaled level of professionalism—always guaranteeing our promptness, products, and price.” Owner Jeff Ray elaborated on his company’s success, “We’ve been delivering solid work for over 30 years. Our business is built on our strong reputation which results in repeat business from contractors, property managers and homeowners, for both commercial and residential projects. We are happy to be here serving San Clemente and South OC for all these years.”

Reviews continue to rave about JL Ray. Jackie M. wrote, “I found Jeff, the owner, to be very involved. He showed up on time, gave me a reasonable price (asphalt shingles) compared to the quotes from two other roofers. He put me on the schedule quickly, came with enough help and finished the job beautifully and for the price he quoted. He also left the jobsite neat.”

J.L. Ray Roofing works to protect its employees and customers alike. The company carries full liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. Safety is always a top concern. J.L. Ray maintains a CAL-OSHA approved safety program. The company is fully licensed and insured: CA Contractor License B/C-39 567238.

Give J.L. Ray Roofing a call to learn why people choose them for their roofing projects at 949-498-2274.

J.L. Ray Roofing
1447 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente
949.498.2274
jlray.com

J.L. Ray Roofing

Grant Maury Construction

Grant Maury Construction

John Grant & Ben Maury

Grant Maury ConstructionJohn Grant and Ben Maury are 3rd generation builders and family men. John was born and raised in San Clemente and Ben is from Poitiers, France. Both are the apprentices of generations of craftsmen that span decades and oceans, but they are now raising their families locally. Grant Maury Construction, Inc. places extreme value on honesty, quality, and integrity and the company’s top priority is to deliver outstanding customer satisfaction.

Grant Maury Construction is in the business of both building and customizing dream homes. John, Ben and their expert team are skilled at everything from ground-up builds and full remodels, to gourmet kitchen and high-end bathrooms remodels, room additions, custom decks and premium outdoor living spaces. They work closely with their clients to ensure that every detail is flawlessly executed to the exact specifications of the client. “What sets us apart is a higher level of standard and our attention to detail,” says Ben. “Regardless of the size of the project, we value integrity and getting things done correctly.”

A core tenant of the company’s success is maintaining a direct and consistent line of communication with clients. Grant Maury Construction understands that home remodels can be a stressful and taxing experience. Through an open line of communication, the team addresses issues immediately, to smooth out any potential bumps in the road. John and Ben’s extensive knowledge and experience also allows for a fluid transfer of information between city building departments and the jobsite, to reduce unnecessary delays during the building process.

One of John and Ben’s specialties is designing custom, outdoor living areas. They understand that outdoor and patio living is the new normal, and residing in beautiful South Orange County allows homeowners to enjoy an indoor/outdoor lifestyle—all year long. Grant Maury Construction incorporates your entire backyard into the design, creating a seamless transition between the interior and exterior spaces. Their goal is to transform your existing yard into the perfect outdoor oasis. John and Ben work closely with an extensive team of professionals, including local architects and designers, to ensure that the end result exceeds your expectations.

Grant Maury Construction is well-known for custom kitchen remodels. “We believe the kitchen is the true heart of any home,” says John. “Few home remodeling projects have more impact and lasting benefits, for a family, than a new kitchen,” he adds. Their team is hands-on during each stage in the process, from the consultation to the final installation.

John and Ben look forward to the opportunity to discuss your next project. From a custom beach home, to a bathroom remodel, their slogan says it all, “You dream it; we’ll build it!”

Grant Maury Construction
1443 N El Camino Real, Suite A, San Clemente
949.410.0469
grantmauryconstruction.com

Grant Maury Construction

DC Plumbing, Heating & Air

DC Plumbing, Heating & Air

Dave Colbert

DC Plumbing, Heating & AirIn South Orange County, you’ve almost certainly seen one of the DC Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning trucks. And since owner Dave Colbert’s image appears on all five of his company’s vehicles, you’re sure to recognize Dave himself.

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Dave settled in San Clemente and began his professional career. For over thirty years, “DC” has been providing professional plumbing and HVAC services to residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers throughout the county. “We do everything,” Dave says, “from regular maintenance to remodels, to real estate inspections and repairs.”

The company also offers “smart” home installations, like Nest thermostats, which allow you to control the temperature from an app on your phone. “Have you ever gone on vacation and returned home to a plumbing disaster? There’s an app for that, too!” adds Dave. “We install Flowlogic, a device placed on your main water service line that detects water leaks and shuts the water off for you. The Flowlogic app sends an alert to your phone.”

Not an app person? A new, cost-efficient water heater may be for you. “The Noritz tankless water heater is just bullet-proof. It comes with a 25-year warranty (regular water heaters only last 8 to 10 years) and energy rebates of up to $1000. We install at least two a week,” shares Dave.

His advice to every homeowner is simple. “Maintenance is the key to making things work long-term. Equipment and systems should be inspected once or twice a year. Filters require regular cleaning and replacement. If you don’t maintain your systems, you’re eventually going to have to replace them,” Dave advises.

DC Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning offers expert repair, maintenance, and new installation services. The team provides 24-hour emergency services, custom build-outs for new homes, and installation of the latest SmartHome offerings available. For more information, call 949-365-9044 to learn what DC can do for you.

DC Plumbing, Heating & Air
1225 Puerta Del Sol, Suite 500, San Clemente
949.365.9044
dcplumbing.net

DC Plumbing, Heating & Air