Zakura Dining & Bar
By Carina Calhoun

Nestled in the rolling hills of Laguna Niguel (at the former location of Hunter Steakhouse), Zakura Dining & Bar delivers Japanese cuisine with a French flare to tempt your taste buds.

The recently opened restaurant offers fare to seduce your senses. Whether it’s the succulent arugula salad with candied walnuts and fried goat cheese or grilled salmon served with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables, the colorful presentation is a treat for your eyes as much as it is for your mouth.

Executive Chef Lassine Sylla creates fresh, contemporary takes on the classics—like steak au poivre (filet mignon served with sansho pepper sauce) or bincho maguro tataki (seared albacore topped with caviar and yuzu onions). You can almost taste the thoughtfulness that goes into every plate. Perhaps it’s the hint of citrus that hits you after every nosh or that “just enough” crunch you get after biting into the steamed vegetables.

Alongside a full fusion entrée menu, Zakura offers a wide variety of sushi rolls and sashimi for the raw enthusiast. The restaurant’s sushi chefs prepare everything from traditional tuna to the crowd-pleasing fusion rolls like the Angry Mobster (lobster tempura topped with mixed crab and spicy coconut).

If you’re seeking a truly unique sushi experience, Zakura’s lead Sushi Chef, Richard Anwar, creates specialties to perk up your palate. His Hamachi Truffle Peppercorn takes Japanese yellowtail and marries it with the flavors of chili, truffle, peppercorn and yuzu. The freshness, the pairing of ingredients and plating set the stage for an extraordinary dish.

Zakura also offers the services of a full bar—complete with flat screen TVs, cocktails, and your favorite beer on tap. Whether you’re after a glass of wine, a martini, or good ol’ Stella Artois, they’ve got you covered (if you’re of the latter inclination, check out the happy hour menu, too!). A perfect spot for an after work get together or to celebrate that special occasion, Zakura has just the space (and taste) for you.

Zakura Dining & Bar
30100 Town Center Dr. • Suites Y – Z
Laguna Niguel • 949.218.0877

 

Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California
By Beth Fhaner

 

If you’re like many in south Orange County who suffer from allergy and asthma-related conditions, relief is just around the corner at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California. For more than 30 years, the group has been treating the local community for allergies, asthma, eczema, sinus problems, chronic cough and much more.

Founded in 1980 and under the current guidance of partners Dr. Warner Carr and Dr. William E. Berger, the practice is known for quality, leading-edge medical information in conjunction with thoughtful, unhurried care. With offices in San Clemente, Mission Viejoand Irvine, the nationally and internationally recognized physicians will treat you like a member of the family at a location close to home.

Dr. Warner W. Carr spent 17 years in the Army as a practicing physician and obtained his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. He admits that he gravitated to the specialty of allergy and asthma care after noticing “the explosion of allergic diseases in our society.” When it comes to treating patients with allergies, Dr. Carr says that food allergies and environmental allergies are both extremely common conditions. After obtaining a patient’s history, performing a physical exam, and administering some tests, Dr. Carr and his staff are able to create a tailored treatment plan to alleviate some allergic symptoms. Strategies and medical therapies may include medication, allergy shots, avoidance to certain allergens, or a combination of treatments to achieve optimal results.

If you’re the parent of a school-aged child, you’ve certainly been introduced to peanut-free areas and the increased focus on food allergies in our institutions of learning and beyond. As food allergies in both children and adults are on the rise, it’s imperative that diet and environment are diligently monitored to avoid what could be a life-threatening situation. The primary culprits of food allergies in children are milk, eggs, and peanuts, although soy, wheat (gluten), fish and shellfish round-out the top 7 items.

If someone in your family suffers from an allergy to dust mites, the best approach is to tackle it at the source. Found on towels, pillows, matresses and carpeting, dust mites can be significantly reduced through vacuuming, dusting, decluttering and the use of dust mite covers. Parents of some of the children that Dr. Carr treats are concerned that their beloved stuffed animals may harbor dust mites. Rest assured, there’s no need to give Elmo the boot. Simply place the furry friend in a plastic bag and then in the freezer – problem solved.

Another area of concern for families and adults is exercise-induced asthma, which occurs in patients only when they’re physically active. According to Dr. Carr, exercise-induced asthma “is a very common condition we see in our practice.” Besides airway inflammation, this type of asthma may also cause patients’ muscles to get twitchy and narrow, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. “About 10 people per day die in the U.S. due to asthma. It breaks my heart because it is easily treated with appropriate management and medications that are very easy to carry and use as needed thereafter,” shares Dr. Carr.

With an extremely busy research center in Mission Viejo, the doctors at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California are involved in cutting-edge research, clinical trials and testing for large pharmaceutical companies around the world. Additionally, Dr. Carr lectures worldwide and feels fortunate to teach allergists and primary care doctors on an international level. Commenting on his research studies, Dr. Carr notes, “We’re literally on the precipice of a breakthrough for food allergies, and one day we may even potentially cure diseases like asthma.” As a leader in his field, Dr. Carr considers himself blessed to have the opportunity to work on a local, regional, national, and international level. Above all, though, it’s the time Dr. Carr spends with his patients that he finds the most rewarding. “What keeps me refreshed and coming back is the relationships with the patients. There is nothing more fulfilling.”

November Cover Shoot of Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California

 

San Clemente Villas by the Sea
By Bill Koelzer

 

The San Clemente Villas by the Sea assisted living community offers a luxurious, healthy, comfortable environment for senior residents over age 65.

The Villas community includes nutritious gourmet dining, an activities center, movie theater, computer room and library, pool & spa, as well as comfortable outdoor patio areas for important social interaction between residents and visiting family and friends.

One enters the Villas through an open, living room-like “grand hall” with soaring ceilings, and plush furniture. Smiling, over-65 seniors enjoy chatting amongst themselves and with visiting relatives as they lounge on couches, easy chairs or sit at small cozy tables. The soft drink refreshments bar is always open.

Paul and Aileen Brazeau co-own and manage the staff and directly participate in the Villas’ social activities, also conducting special “community” events during the year, usually to benefit a non-profit organization.

Intelligently located immediately adjacent to the Saddleback Memorial Medical Center hospital and directly across the street from buildings housing scores of doctors, the gleaming white three story complex offers its residents expansive city and ocean views as well as amenities rivaling those of a luxury private club.

Along with its comfort and grandeur, residents enjoy a level of care seldom seen in senior domiciles. For example, the Villas tailors a care plan to meet each resident’s individual and unique needs involving 24-hour personalized care and the finest comprehensive activity program for residents with special needs and memory care.

The executive director and two licensed nurses are involved in all aspects of team management and resident care, quality assurance and family participation. Dr. Jane L. Mahakian, a Ph.D., gerontologist also works with those in need of help regarding dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Seniors get scheduled transportation Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with scheduled church transportation services on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Residents have the option of choosing a studio, or a one-bedroom apartment suite.

Aileen Brazeau, the marketing and PR director of the Villas, says, “We love San Clemente and its senior residents who live here. The first thing that Paul, I and our staff focused upon when we opened our doors in 2002 was that each senior has a unique story to tell and each one has individual needs. If we are as successful as people say we are in providing luxury senior care and lodging, it is for that reason… we keep listening very closely to what our residents tell us.”

Married couples, life partners and singles all live here, many forming close friendships as they participate in the endless group and individual scheduled daily activities at the Villas. Residents enjoy as much independence as possible, plus there is ample assistance for much older adults who need help with dressing, bathing, taking medications, healthy nutrition, exercise and other daily personal chores.

Paul Brazeau, a Navy Veteran, and an experienced 40-year builder of shopping centers, has focused on constructing senior facilities for the past twenty years. Before that, he built and owned Delta Electric, a Los Angeles-Orange County electrical contracting firm with more than 100 employees. In his career, he’s built 35 buildings — and San Clemente Villas by the Sea, which he calls his “labor of love.”

San Clemente Villas
660 Camino de Los Mares
San Clemente • 949.489.3400
SanClementeVillas.com

Behind the scenes of our October cover shoot at San Clemente Villas by the Sea

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival
By Monique Reilly

The 2nd Annual Greek Festival returns to San Juan Capistrano on Saturday and Sunday, September 27th and 28th. Sponsored by Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, the festival offers guests authentic Greek cuisine, live music, traditional Greek dancing, specialty shopping at the Greek 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) which are the perfect complement to a tasty Greek coffee or iced frappé. A taverna, equipped with big screen TVs for a sports bar twist, allows patrons to enjoy Greek beer, wine and ouzo, alongside their domestic favorites.

The Greeks have a word for the spirit of joy, fun and a passion for life – known as “kefi!” Participants are encouraged to dance to live Greek music, and with a few simple lessons will be expressing their kefi with shouts of “Opa!” In addition, the Saint Basil dance troupe will perform traditional dances in costume representing different areas of Greece.

This year’s exhibits will showcase costumed dolls from the many regions of Greece as well as an olive oil tasting and cooking class with 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 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 event, please visit SJCGreekFest.org.

Marbella Farmers Market
By Monique Reilly

Marbella Farmers Market, a cornerstone of San Juan Capistrano for 21 years, is the best kept secret in south Orange County for all of your culinary needs. Farm fresh produce, pre-made gourmet meals, an extensive deli and sushi bar, and fine wine and spirits are at your fingertips at this one-stop shop conveniently nestled in the Marbella Plaza.

This privately owned business prides itself on customer service and its support of local farmers to bring farm-to-market fresh produce and quality products to area residents. Attention to detail in serving its customers is the top priority of Marbella Farmers Market and it’s evident in the vast array of services and selection available. Aside from acting as a conventional grocery store, this establishment offers a full-service deli, prime meat and seafood department, sushi bar, and bakery.

Enjoy a quick breakfast or lunch right inside the store. Beautifully displayed fresh salads, signature sandwiches made with the highest quality Boar’s Head meats and gourmet cheeses, homemade soups, or whatever your taste buds desire make for a quick, easy and delicious meal. The most difficult part will certainly be choosing between the mouth-watering menu options. Couple your entrée with a freshly brewed coffee, courtesy of the friendly barista behind the full-service coffee bar, and finish with a freshly baked treat from the bakery.

Prefer to have a gourmet, healthy meal in the comfort of your own home? Keep your kitchen clean and dish up one of the many seasonally inspired pre-made dinners ready to heat and serve. No need to feel guilty, because you can be sure that this fare is prepared with the freshest and most high quality ingredients.

Marbella Farmers Market offers small town charm and friendly service with reasonable prices and an impressive selection of staple and specialty items. Not to mention, an entire section of gluten free alternatives, organic produce, fresh flowers, unique gift baskets, and top-shelf craft beers and fine wines are readily available.

Cater your next event from an extensive menu and or let the market’s delivery service bring your groceries right to your doorstep. After visiting Marbella Farmers Market, you’ll quickly realize that the possibilities are endless.

Marbella Farmers Market
31109 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano
949.248.1067
MarbellaFarmersMarket.com

 

MemorialCare Medical Group
By Donia Moore

 

Patient, thoughtful, engaged physicians? Same day appointments? Convenient location? MemorialCare Medical Group is giving us yet another great reason to live well in South Orange County.

MemorialCare Medical Group has opened a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in the medical towers on Camino de Los Mares in San Clemente. The new location complements its existing physicians group office in Talega at Saddleback Medical Center. The larger space in North San Clemente consolidates three individual medical offices into one, still allowing room for continued expansion. Four experienced physicians are currently working out of the new office and all are accepting new patients, in case you’re looking.

MemorialCare Medical Group is part of MemorialCare Health System which includes Saddleback Memorial – Laguna Hills and San Clemente, as well as Orange Coast Memorial, Long Beach Memorial, Community Hospital of Long Beach and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital Long Beach.

In addition to the benefit of participating in a large health care network, MemorialCare Medical Group provides around-the-clock assistance with a convenient Telephone Advice Nurse line, that’s accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Advice Nurse line is staffed by professional RNs who are available to answer medical questions at no charge to the caller. Patients may also visit the Urgent Care office, located at 26991 Crown Valley Parkway in Mission Viejo, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

ABOUT THE DOCTORS:
Pred Mitrevski, MD and James Sperber, MD are both internal medicine physicians. Dr. Mitrevski was born and raised in Orange County. He is a USC graduate and is board certified in internal medicine. When Dr. Mitrevski is away from the office, he loves spending time with his wife and three children and watching Trojan football.

Dr. Sperber loves solving mysteries. He especially enjoys solving the mysteries that lead to better patient care. After growing up in the San Diego area, Dr. Sperber headed east to complete both his undergraduate degree and medical degree in Rhode Island. He is board certified in internal medicine.

Returning to practice medicine in San Clemente was coming home for Dr. Sperber and he has since served generations of families in the community. Over 20 years later, Dr. Sperber is still grateful for this privilege, “Thanks for trusting your health and your life to my care, now and in the future!”

They are joined by neurologists Hitesh Patel MD, MPH and Pedro Postigo, MD. Prior to entering medical school, Dr. Patel earned a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and Health and a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Utah. Board certified in neurology, Dr. Patel enjoys playing a number of different sports.

Dr. Postigo’s journey to practicing medicine in San Clemente came by way of Europe. Originally from Peru, he obtained his medical degree in Spain, then spent several years in England before coming to the United States. Upon his arrival, Dr. Postigo completed an additional four years of training to obtain his U.S. medical license. In private practice since 1983, Dr. Postigo is board certified in neurology. When not in the office, he enjoys playing tennis, gardening, and spending time with his wife and four daughters.

MemorialCare Medical Group physicians are connected through a system-wide electronic medical record system with Saddleback Memorial-Laguna Hills and San Clemente. Patients’ medical records are readily available whether they are in the doctor’s office or hospitalized. This connectivity ensures seamless care with all providers having access to imaging studies, lab results and care notes.

Anyway you look at it, MemorialCare has you covered. Make your appointment today by calling (949) 542-8865. For more information regarding MemorialCare Medical Group or Saddleback Memorial, visit MemorialCare.org.

MemorialCare Medical Group San Clemente Locations:

675 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 200
San Clemente • 949.542.8865

1300 Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 250
San Clemente • 949.542.7700

161 Avenida Vaquero
San Clemente • 949.489.8783

For more locations in Orange County,
visit MemorialCare.org/MedicalGroup
or call 866.276.3627

Orange County Seafood Festival
By Monique Reilly

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Dana Point Harbor, just steps outside the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, the bluffs provide the perfect backdrop for pescatarian indulgences, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment. The Orange County Seafood Festival is a don’t-miss event that takes place at Dana Point’s Lantern Bay Park on Saturday, August 9th from noon to 7 p.m.

Exceptional seafood, beer, wine and music are the bill of fare at the Festival. Seafood enthusiasts will be tempted by dishes like Caribbean lobster, lobster corn dogs, spicy seared ahi, crab cake sliders, blackened snapper and grilled catfish. For those who prefer turf to surf, the Orange County Seafood Festival offers an array of non-seafood treats as well. The adventurous may decide to sample the fried blackened alligator tail or simply indulge in a menagerie of the sea’s bounty. Several local eateries will offer their signature dishes for patrons to fulfill their culinary fantaseas.

In the Wine Mixer, guests will have an opportunity to delight in a wide variety of California wines. Selections from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, and Temecula will be represented. Additionally, the event will feature a beer festival with ice-cold craft beers to quench your thirst. Whatever your taste buds desire, an immaculate pairing of fare and spirits awaits.

Spend the day and grab a drink at the Margarita Bar while relaxing to the live musical talents of Garratt Wilkin and the Parrotheads, the ultimate Jimmy Buffett tribute band. The Parrotheads will be joined by other musicians performing Reggae, Zydeco, and Calypso music throughout the picturesque venue. An undercurrent of beach rock is certain to fill the bluff, reminiscent of the islands.

Stroll through the exhibitor village, where nearly one hundred vendors will display their artwork and share their crafts. Specialty performers will also be on hand to entertain the young and young at heart. Sneak a photo with your favorite mermaid & King Neptune and check out the sea-themed puppet shows, guaranteed to provide lots of smiles.

Admission to the Orange County Seafood Festival is free to attendees. “Big Fish” and “Perfect Wave” drink passes are available for purchase in advance of the event. Big Fish passes provide a host of VIP amenities that include unlimited beer and wine sampling, full glasses in the VIP area, a ticket for a meal at any of the food vendor areas, private restrooms, a tented VIP area with tables and chairs directly in front of main stage and more. Big Fish Passes are $95 and a limited number will be sold, so it’s recommended to purchase them early. Perfect Wave passes also offer unlimited beer and wine sampling and are just $40 in advance and $50 if purchased the day of the Festival; limited quantities are available. Please visit OCSeafoodFestival.com to purchase tickets and for more information about the Festival.

Beat the traffic and take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service. The shuttle will run between Dana Hills High School and the venue between 11:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Free parking is also available along Street of the Golden Lantern, between Del Prado Avenue and Dana Point Harbor Drive, or along Dana Point Harbor Drive. Parking may also be found on Old Golden Lantern or in downtown Dana Point with a short walk to the venue.

Patrons of the festival will be pleased to know that a portion of all drink purchases will be donated to the Dana Point 5th Marine Corp Regiment Support Group. So, don’t delay, a day of savory seafood, spirits and entertainment is right around the corner.

2014 San Clemente Ocean Festival
July 19th & 20th

The San Clemente Ocean Festival offers so much to see and do and only 2 days to do it in! There’s something for everyone: athletic competitions, an ocean and beach-themed art show, a free Saturday evening concert on the beach, fishing derbies, a Youth Pavilion with demonstrations, games and entertainment, a Woody car exhibit on the Pier, a sand sculpting competition, and the Great Rubber Duck Race for the event’s finale. Check it all out and more on July 19th & 20th at the San Clemente Pier.

You can start each morning of the Festival with a hot, delicious pancake breakfast on the beach, while supporting San Clemente Lifeguards. It’s a great way to fuel up with family and friends while planning the day’s activities.

Athletes can pre-register or sign up each day for a variety of ocean and beach competitions, including relays, beach runs, ocean swims, and the ever-popular dory boat races. The Festival welcomes one and all, from world-class athletes to weekend warriors. Check out the event website at OceanFestival.org for a full schedule of events and times.

The Ocean Festival offers lots of activities for the entire family to enjoy. On Saturday morning, children ages 4 to 12 can participate in the Dolphin Dash Kid’s Beach Run (near the Youth Pavilion). The Kid’s Fishing Clinic and Derby, at the end of San Clemente Pier, is another popular event. In the Youth Pavilion, south of the Pier, kids can receive glitter tattoos on Saturday and faces painted on Sunday, play games, make crafts, get youth ID cards, plus enjoy free entertainment and demonstrations from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days. On Sunday, children can participate in the Mermaid Parade with King Neptune and Ariel, from the Youth Pavilion onto the Pier.

Claim your spot on the beach as the sun sets over Dana Point. Sit back and enjoy a salmon dinner and other mouth-watering fare prepared by Fisherman’s Restaurant. Enjoy the rockin’ sounds of World Tour – Legends of Rock, who will be performing from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Car enthusiasts can take a walk out on the Pier to admire the Woody Car Exhibit with a different set of these historic beauties on display both Saturday and Sunday. Stop and chat with the owners of these classic vehicles, many used for surfboard toting in the 50’s, 60’s, and beyond. Each Woody has its own personality, history, and story.

Like to ride the surf? The new Sport of Kings Stand-Up Paddleboard Contest takes place on Saturday for both men and women with boards 12’6″ and under. Starting from the sand, racers charge through the surf, rounding outside buoys, and then race with the waves back to the finish line on the sand. Don’t forget the Groms Rule Kid’s Surf Contest on Sunday for ages 14 and under.

South of the Pier on Saturday, San Clemente’s Body Surfing Club will be on hand to help those interested in learning the how-to’s of body surfing at its clinics. Stop by the Ocean Art Show at Parque Del Mar for a fun and unique item to take home with you. Feeling creative? Then gather your team and compete in the Sand Sculpting Competition on Sunday. Don’t miss the event’s grand finale…the Great Rubber Duck Race. Cheer your duck on to the beach and win a prize.

Avoid event traffic by using the free parking and shuttle service from San Clemente High School (700 Avenida Pico) from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday and 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. You can also hop on the Metrolink train to the San Clemente Pier or walk down the beach trail and take in the beautiful ocean views on your way to a fun-filled weekend.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://thelocaldishmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/TLD_Aug14_BacktoSchool.pdf”]

 

By Monique Reilly

There’s no need to look further than Dana Point for scrumptious Southern fare. Smokey’s House of BBQ boasts a hometown casual atmosphere, stunning ocean view, and melt-in-your-mouth smoked meats. Izzy Mercado, owner and restaurateur, helped build Smokey’s into the cornerstone establishment it has been for over 6 years. Having begun his journey as the restaurant’s executive chef at its inception, Izzy is emotionally invested in Smokey’s service, food, and patrons.

Reminiscent of the South, tin signs and witty phrases decorate the restaurant’s walls while a large tree house centerpiece draws upon one’s youthful imagination. Perfect for lunch or dinner, Smokey’s comfortable booths are well equipped to seat a large family or party. Patrons can even sit in the “jailhouse,” two caged booths with chalkboard walls; a huge hit with kids and mischievous adults alike. While your meal is prepared, enjoy the Southern-inspired music or sporting events playing on flat screen televisions. Smokey’s also offers an impressive selection of craft beers on draft or bottled favorites.

The food speaks for itself. Smokey’s knows that patience is a virtue, and is notorious for smoking its meat “slow and low.” Paying huge dividends, meats are tender and rich in flavor. Whether you order the famous ribs, pulled pork, tri-tip or brisket, each cut is coupled with asavory marinade and sauce that serves as a flawless complement. The side dishes are equally impressive to the palate. It may be impossible to choose between the Gourmet Mac and Cheese, sautéed to nostalgic perfection in a 3-cheese sauce, Scalloped Potatoes prepared in a garlic parmesan pottage, or Smokey’s Signature Skillet Cornbread, seasoned with onions, jalapenos and cheddar.

For those who prefer lighter fare, Smokey’s offers an array of salads, seafood and sandwiches, paired with fresh, homemade dressings and sauces, unique in character and flavor. If you manage to save room, don’t miss the decadent bread pudding or homemade brownie for dessert.

Enjoy Happy Hour Monday through Friday (3 to 6 p.m.), and bring your kids to eat free on Tuesdays. Grab Southern BBQ with a view or cater your next event. Smokey’s House of BBQ at Monarch Bay Plaza in Dana Point will not disappoint.

Smokey’s House of BBQ
32860 PCH, Dana Point
949.388.8102
SmokeysHouseOfBBQdp.com