Los Patios Mexican Cocina
By Donia Moore

Escape south of the border without ever having to leave Orange County! Your ticket to authentic Mexican cuisine is just minutes away at Los Patios Mexican Cocina in the Historic Old City Plaza in San Clemente.

Carlos Frutos opened Los Patios in 2002. Born and raised in the restaurant industry in Mexico City, he’s honed a talent for matching the rich flavors of fresh ingredients with piquant spices. Carlos has traveled from Guadalajara to Ensenada and Cancun to Mazatlan to bring customers delightful and subtly sophisticated dishes that are representative of his native country.

Los Patios has received the honor of having been voted “Best Mexican Food” in San Clemente by local newspapers… and for good reason. During my recent visit, I enjoyed the traditional Aztecan Molcajete of grilled pork, steak, chicken, and shrimp served steaming hot on a lava rock plate. The dish was both delicious and satisfying. I also sampled the vegetarian Spinach Enchiladas which combined sautéed fresh spinach and tomatillos, garnished with poblano peppers in a creamy pesto sauce — divine.

I highly recommend trying Alida’s Favorite, named after Carlos’s lovely wife, and of the most popular dishes on the menu. This grilled chicken breast and shrimp entrée is sautéed in a flavorful garlic chipotle sauce. For a twist on the traditional, Los Patios offers Rellenos Del Mar, with two poblano chiles stuffed with crab, scallops, shrimp and cheese — a fantastic choice for seafood lovers.

The friendly, knowledgeable staff made my experience at Los Patios that much more enjoyable. Carlos encourages customer suggestions and feedback from diners and has even collaborated with them to create new dishes. The Queso Fundido with shrimp and scallops, for example, was born of a joint effort between servers and patrons and remains one of the most popular appetizers at the restaurant.

Los Patios features $1 street tacos on Taco Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and all-you-can-eat Endless Enchiladas for just $9.99 on Thursdays. Happy Hour food and drink specials are available from 2 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The kiddos can also get in on the action with full meals for only $5.95 on the Amiguitos menu. Los Patios also offers a completely customizable catering menu for your next gathering or special event.

Dana Point Turkey Trot
November 26th, 7:00 a.m.

On Thanksgiving morning, thousands of runners and spectators will descend on Dana Point Harbor for the 38th annual Turkey Trot race. The Dana Point Turkey Trot is Orange County’s largest and most scenic Thanksgiving day race and is the premier trot in Southern California. Experience for yourself the race that was named one of the top 3 destinations in the world for Thanksgiving by Fodor’s Travel, a must-do10K by Shape Magazine and one of America’s best Thanksgiving Day runs by Fitness Magazine.

The Dana Point Turkey Trot has become a Southern California tradition, attracting more than 17,000 participants, volunteers, friends and family, to its 5K, 10K and Kids’ Gobble Wobble. All runners will receive a tech shirt and finisher medal. Festivities include a DJ, on course entertainment, a costume contest, photos with the event mascot, Drumstick, and a health and wellness expo. The Dana Point Turkey Trot is the perfect place to bring your family to run the race before you stuff your face and to create or continue wonderful family traditions.

Tour the beautiful beach, majestic cliffs and coves of Dana Point on the scenic, flat course. Enjoy pounding surf, beautiful views, and cool ocean breezes as you sail through the Dana Point Marina,Doheny State Park and pass the Historic Tallship Pilgrim moored in Dana Point Harbor. From beginners to elite runners, this event is for everyone!

Don’t delay, register now and save! Online registration closes on Monday, November 23 at midnight. You can register on-site at the Health & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, November 25th and on race day, Thursday, November 26th. Prices go up $10 for on-site registration. Visit TurkeyTrot.com for event details, registration and to become a race volunteer.

The Point – Dana Point
By Shelley Hudson

Looking for a spot to meet for dinner and catch up? Well, a few weeks back, a girlfriend and I decided to do just that at The Point. Crowning Dana Point’s Blue Lantern-PCH hilltop for over three years now, this restaurant and bar is the perfect family-friendly, live music venue with fantastic food, reasonable prices and a coastal casual vibe.

My friend arrived first and scored a banquette on the patio surrounding a cozy fire pit where we could enjoy the music from Tuesday’s Open Mic Night. With the balmy evening and great company, skinny margaritas were in order. We were delighted that the cocktails arrived in icy pint glasses and were well-measured and citrus-heavy.

We took our friendly server’s recommendation and ordered the Endless Summer Vegetable Pizza along with the Lumpia, Seared Ahi and Sliders appetizers. The ahi dish was a meal unto itself with a generous portion of seared tuna rolled in Cajun spices served alongside a fresh cucumber and avocado salad. The pairing was the ideal combination of spicy and cool. The sliders were well-seasoned and tucked inside soft Hawaiian mini rolls with aged cheddar. Note: these are offered in pick-your-size portions—a fine choice for a large or small party to share.

The lumpia was a fun surprise. The Point’s Filipino chef, Ronald Canaveral, has this traditional Filipino eggroll-type food hand-rolled by his uncle, who supplies restaurants throughout Los Angeles. Made from shredded pork, shrimp, carrots, water chestnuts, green onion, and a little soy and sesame seed, these delights were crunchy, zesty and satisfying. Our brick oven-cooked pizza was piled high with fresh veggies; the menu describes this option as “the garden on a pizza,” and I have to concur with this assessment. The sooty flour on the crust’s edges from the brick oven gave the pie the street cred it deserves. My leftover slices were just as delish at lunch the following day.

The Point’s rock-solid commitment to patrons having an enjoyable experience is perhaps the most impressive part of the restaurant’s mission. Every day is a party—with daily happy hours, swing dancing and country nights, a sports fan’s dream game-watching venue, and extensive craft beer and local wine selections. The dedicated Kid Cave also offers maximum distraction for the little ones so that parents have the opportunity to dine with perhaps less interruption and a bit longer.

Check out ThePointRestaurantandBar.com for daily specials, theme nights, menus and more. Be sure to note the kids-eat-free times, too!

The Point
34085 Pacific Coast Hwy
Dana Point, CA
(949) 464-5700

U.S. Reclaimed

After 20 years as a local contractor and craftsman, Ben Bonin saw a need in the marketplace for unique building materials and custom, one-of-a-kind creations that contractors, architects, builders, designers and homeowners were demanding. His woodworking expertise and experience with vintage lumber helped him fill the niche for designs that are anything but cookie-cutter.

Ben, and his wife Bethany, opened U.S. Reclaimed Vintage Lumber & Wood Works in Laguna Niguel just over a year ago to an enthusiastic response. Their set up is part showroom, part lumber store, and part workshop. The racks of reclaimed wood from all over the country are a history lesson waiting to happen. Pulled from structurally unsound buildings like barns, grain mills, factories and homes, each piece has both a time-worn story behind it and a yet-to-be-told story ahead.

Ben’s raw materials are salvaged and repurposed into fresh, new designs such as—doors, mantels, furniture, flooring, ceiling beams, paneling and more. “Getting my hands dirty and building things from scratch is my passion,” says Ben, “I can build anything a customer can imagine.” That seems like a tall order, but clicking through his portfolio seems to prove his point. His work is on display in kitchens, bathrooms, family rooms, dining rooms and home facades all over Orange County, as well as in a variety of commercial applications, including The Cellar in San Clemente. “We don’t really have a ‘typical’ customer. We get a wide variety of people coming through, including contractors, architects, builders, store owners, designers, and DIY homeowners who just want something different.”

“All of our products can be custom milled to a client’s specifications. Each piece is 100% unique, with its own patina, character and charm. It seems the possibilities are endless,” says Ben. He’s been making lots of custom bathroom vanities and sliding barn-style doors lately, and, of course, customers continue to come from near and far for the distinctive flooring options. Ben estimates his reclaimed materials range from pre-1900 to 1930’s old-growth, mixed American soft and hardwoods.

Born and raised in San Juan Capistrano, Ben is a true local. He and Bethany are raising their three kids, aged kindergarten through junior high, to appreciate the gifts the community has to offer. It’s important to them to keep their business “mom and pop” and client-focused. “I’d love to eventually expand my product line and possibly work toward becoming a customer’s one-stop shop for woodworking. Right now, though, I’m happy doing custom projects and enjoying the creativity and challenge this opportunity has brought me. Seeing the special character of 200-year-old wood come to life as beautiful flooring or a family dining table is the best reward.”

The tagline for the operation is “reclaiming the U.S. piece-by-piece,” and customers find inspiration in strolling the aisles and seeing the incredible variety of color, wood species and tactile features. Lisa Martin, a frequent U.S. Reclaimed client, has customized her home with Ben’s help. “Ben and his team are professional, creative and extremely patient,” explains Lisa. “He values my business and takes pride and ownership in his work. I love being able to hand pick each piece for my projects. My flooring and kitchen island are beautiful, timeless and indestructible! Now I’m working on a fireplace mantel, shelving and a huge custom chalkboard. I find the products and shopping experience addictive.”

When they’re not traveling the country collecting aged lumber, antique hardware and other treasures, Ben and Bethany are helping clients realize their visions. Come by the shop, located off the 5 Freeway at Avery Parkway, or check out the super cool website to find photos of finished projects, raw materials and “before and afters” to catch a glimpse of the old buildings before and during deconstruction.

Take a behind the scenes look at The Local Dish Magazine’s November Cover Photo Shoot!

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Hennessey’s – San Juan Capistrano
By Krissy V.

With locations from San Diego to the South Bay, Hennessey’s has grown from its first casual coastal location in Hermosa Beach to an expansive chain of ten taverns throughout California’s beach cities and into Las Vegas. Its successful recipe is now being served up atHennessey’s Tavern in historic San Juan Capistrano to an enthusiastic crowd of newcomers and loyal followers.

Hennessey’s take on the traditional Irish pub is the brainchild of its founder and namesake Paul Hennessey. This former stock trader has definitely enjoyed the luck o’ the Irish when it comes to the restaurant industry. Paul opened the company’s first location back in 1976 on Hermosa Beach’s Pier Avenue at a time when the beach enclave was much more sleepy and laid-back. Hennessey’s Tavern, Inc. now includes ten taverns, H.T. Grill, The Wine Bistro, Mickie Finnz, LVCS, and the legendary Lighthouse Café — located a few doors down from the original tavern’s footprint.

In August of this year, Hennessey’s Tavern San Juan Capistrano opened doors across from the Mission on Camino Capistrano. The brand’s newest restaurant has that expectedly familiar pub atmosphere along with a spacious outdoor patio — complete with full bar, flat screen TVs and plenty of cozy seating.

Having had the pleasure of sipping a pint or two at several of its properties, I’m no stranger to what keeps guests coming back. The warm and friendly staff, consistently delicious and reasonably priced fare, and flowing drinks have certainly contributed to its success, but Paul Hennessey has brilliantly managed to create an inviting gathering place where friends and families can simply relax. Hennessey’s perfect blend of ingredients that draws customers in for an unhurried breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks have stood the test of time for close to 40 years.

One thing’s for certain, there’s always something happening at Hennessey’s. $5 freshly squeezed juice cocktails, early bird dinners for $10.95 (served all day), and $15 tasting flights are all offered daily. Monday through Friday happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. includes too many fantastic $5 food and drink specials to list. Stop in for 2-4-1 burgers and breakfast entrées on Two Timin’ Tuesdays and 50% off bottles of wine on Wine Up Wednesdays. Visit on Saturdays and Sundays for Hennessey’s famous $4 hand-made Bloody Mary’s until 1 p.m. and $20 champagne buckets with freshly squeezed juices ‘til 5 p.m.

Dana Point Oktoberfest – 2015
Saturday, October 10th

October brings an encore presentation of Orange County’s highly anticipated Oktoberfest. Grab your family and hang-worthy friends and make the short jaunt to Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point!

In previous years, South Orange County has been devoid of a local Oktoberfest celebration that it could call its own. Given the success of last year’s inaugural Dana Point Oktoberfest, things have changed. The excitement surrounding this year’s event is beyond anyone’s expectations. Enthusiastic participants from last year and eager first-timers have made promises to come early and stay late.

How can one resist the smell of freshly baked, doughy pretzels, or of plump, handcrafted artisan sausages being slowly roasted over an open flame? The sounds of cheering and laughter while dancers merrily tap their heels makes you want to swiftly grab the closest stein of Oktoberfest beer and join in the festivities. Get in touch with your inner Bavarian for the day! The celebration starts on Saturday, October 10th at 12 p.m. and continues through the evening until 7 p.m.

Oktoberfest organizer EventWerks has high hopes of making this free event a staple in the local community for years to come. EventWerks has been responsible for presenting several fun-filled events in the area, including the Dana Point Food, Wine & Music Festival, the California Celtic Classic, the Orange County Seafood Festival and the Taste of Doheny. EventWerks has also collaborated with the City of Dana Point to enhance elements of the Dana Point Summer Concert Series and the Dana Point State BBQ Championships. The EventWerks team is no stranger to understanding the desire to enjoy an incredible local venue mixed with outdoor activities, entertainment and the correct dosage of great food and drinks.

Event fare will include bratwursts, German pretzels, German potato salad, sauerkraut and many more Bavarian-style items. German beer (including five types of Spaten, the granddaddy of Oktoberfest beers), European and other craft brews will be pouring generously throughout this festive day. Themed games, a spectacular outdoor venue and cheery décor make the perfect combination for a fantastic local outing.

Free parking can be found along Niguel Road and Stonehill Drive. From there, it’s a short walk to the event through the Stonehill Drive Gate Entrance.

For more information regarding the Dana Point Oktoberfest, its flavors, parking, shuttle service, trolley schedule and more, visit DanaPointOktoberfest.com.

 
San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival
September 25th – 27th

The three-day festival, sponsored by Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, returns to San Juan Capistrano on Friday, September 25 and runs through Sunday, September 27. Guests will enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, live Greek music, traditional Greek dancing, specialty shopping at the bazaar and kid-friendly activities.

The menu will feature various Greek delicacies including gyros, souvlaki, lamb chops, spanakopita and Greek salad, as well as delicious pastries like baklava and kourambiethes (powdered sugar butter cookies) to accompany a delicious Greek coffee or iced coffee frappe. The festival also offers a Taverna with a sports bar twist – equipped with big screen TVs where guests can enjoy domestic favorites as well as Greek beer, wine and ouzo.

The Greek word “Kefi” means the spirit of joy, fun and a passion for life. You will have the opportunity to experience this part of Greek culture at the festival as you dance to live music. Don’t worry; lessons are provided and within seconds you will be expressing your Kefi with shouts of “Opa!” The Saint Basil dance troupe will also perform traditional dances in costume representing different regions of Greece.

This year’s exhibits will showcase costumed dolls from the many areas of Greece as well as a chance to win some great raffle prizes. For those interested in art, iconographer Father Michael Courey will unveil and discuss two Byzantine icons to be used for Saint Basil’s Church. These icons were recently featured at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles as part of his lecture and demonstration.

Festival hours are 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Admission and parking are free. Saint Basil’s Church is located at 27129 Calle Arroyo, near the 74 Ortega Highway exit in San Juan Capistrano.

For more information on the Greek Festival, please visit sjcgreekfest.org.

Discovery Cube Orange County’s Newest Exhibit!

All roads lead to Santa Ana as Discovery Cube Orange County opens Hot Wheels™: Race to Win™. This new family exhibit will get you revved up with immersive activities for three generations of Hot Wheels® fans. Hot Wheels: Race to Win debuts on September 19, 2015 and the pit stop continues through January 3, 2016.

Be part of a dynamic race team working together to build and test the fastest (and safest) speed machines on the planet, using Hot Wheels die-cast cars to experiment and play. This behind-the-scenes look at the thrilling world of racing investigates the scientific process for designing super-fast cars and helps families who have the need for speed understand how it is achieved.

“Generations of children have enjoyed the thrill and speed of racing with Hot Wheels, and this new interactive exhibit now brings families together to learn what brings racing to life in a fun and memorable way,” shares Julie Freeland, Senior Director, Global Live Events & Attractions, Mattel.

Children and Families will love the Pit Stop Challenge in which they can race the clock – and their family and friends – to change tires and refuel the car. A 6-lane downhill speed track, booster power track, adjustable angles track, and timing track are just a few of the ways visitors will be able to test their theories regarding the science of racing and cause and effect. Real race car parts, authentic artifacts, and captivating memorabilia will round out the experience.

Introduced by Mattel in 1968, the “tricked-out” toy cars have come a long way (both in the die-cast and life-size varieties). More than 800 models and 11,000 variations of Hot Wheels cars have been created and more than 4 billion Hot Wheels die-cast cars have been sold.

Don’t miss the opportunity to push the limits of your imagination and learn about the world of racing in this all-new exhibit.

Discovery Cube Orange County
2500 N Main Street, Santa Ana
714.542.2823 • DiscoveryCube.org

Dana Point State Barbeque Championships
Friday, October 3rd

If you are the wizard of your backyard grill, then it’s time for you to head down to Dana Point and meet your masters. The 4th Annual City of Dana Point State Barbeque Championships returns October 3 to beautiful Sea Terrace Park. This event will offer melt-in-your-mouth delights with a smorgasbord of meats barbequed to perfection. BBQ teams will spend tremendous time preparing and creating dishes that will whet your appetite and satisfy your palate. Fans of hops and barley will be happy to know they can quench their thirst at the returning Beer Festival, a special section full of craft beers from independent breweries.

The City of Dana Point continues to do its part to support local charities. This year, a portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Dana Point 5th Regiment Marines Support Group, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and The VFW(Veterans of Foreign War). The Dana Point State BBQ Championship will also kick-off the holiday toy collection effort for Toys for Tots. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to the BBQ to help underprivileged children this holiday season.

The City of Dana Point State Barbeque Championship serves as the West Coast’s biggest BBQ competition, with over 100 of the top teams from California, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona competing for a slice of $30,000 in prize money. USA Today boasts that this competition is “one of the 6 must-attend BBQ events in the nation.” With reputation and cash on the line, patrons are sure to reap the delicious benefits of this heated rivalry. Start your engines BBQ enthusiasts, and be there to witness an epic battle in the categories of chicken, ribs, brisket, and pork. Not to mention, a special “Dessert” category is now part of the competition to sweeten your culinary experience.

A wide variety of beer stands will be positioned throughout the venue with beer by the glass served for just $6. Beer sampling opportunities will also be available in the Beer Festival area where enthusiasts can choose between the finest ales, lagers and stouts to wash down all of the BBQ competitors’ savory creations. Ask for the brewmaster’s recommendations to create a perfect pairing for the sweet, spicy and smoky meats available at the competition. Or, throw caution to the wind and conjure up your own coupling of food and drink to satisfy your individual penchant.

If you’re feeling a little weighty after all those barbeque tasters and ales, live musical entertainment will allow you to dance off all of those extra calories consumed at the festival. Stroll through the Vendor Village, or let your little ones explore the many kid-friendly activities and attractions.

Admission as always is free. You can purchase full plates of food directly from a variety of vendors or you may opt for $2 samples, if you’d prefer to fill your belly nibbling on a host of BBQ delights.

There will be free shuttle service for you and your group from Dana Hills High School starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m. Complimentary parking will also be available along Stonehill Drive and Niguel Road, as well as at Salt Creek Beach. Circle your calendar for the first Saturday in October and check out DanaPointBBQChampionships.com for all the details.