Mercedes of Laguna Niguel

It’s an exciting time at Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel. The dealership has come a long way since its early days as Mission Imports nearly 40 years ago. Since then, Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel has been nationally recognized for its growing sales volume, outstanding customer service and their exceptional parts department which has all led to them receiving some of the highest ratings in customer satisfaction among Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the Nation. And now with a multi-million dollar renovation & a ton of new models on the way, the best is yet to come.

Established in August 1973 as Mission Imports, the dealership is privately owned by the Pingree Family, who are also members of the Laguna Niguel community. To accommodate their steady growth, the business was re-located from Mission Viejo to Laguna Niguel in 1998 on an expansive 22-acre property, making Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel one of the largest Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Southern California. The dealership includes 100 bays in their service department, as well as over 200 pre-owned vehicles available and hundreds of new vehicles in inventory.

In a continued effort to differentiate themselves from other Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the area, a one-of-a-kind dedicated Pre-Owned facility was added to the property in December 2003 as well as a Sprinter Van commercial vehicle franchise in April 2010 which includes sales, service, and customization. In July of this year, Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel also became an official smart car center.

In order to accommodate their continued growth, Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel invested millions to give their facility a facelift. The investment added over 3,000 square feet of showroom space for the exclusive Certified AMG Performance Center (one of only a handful in the country), a complete overhaul of the service department, remodeled parts and accessories boutique, a new 5-Star Guest Lounge featuring complimentary Starbucks coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi access, real-time video of the service department at work, and a Junior Star Lounge Kid’s area. Pat Bolter, General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel, explained that “The overall design theme and décor was inspired by the German ‘Autohaus’ concept – contemporary, modern, open, light and airy. Extremely clean and simple, here the cars are the stars.” The renovation and expansion project took nearly nine months, wrapping up in July 2011.

The renovation and expansion comes just in time as all-new models are arriving. Mercedes-Benz USA calls their 2012 vehicles the freshest line of product of any luxury automobile make. The 2012 CLS-Class 4-door coupe, released in June 2011, features a twin-turbo V-8 engine and beautiful sport-body styling. The 2012 SLK-Class Roadster, also released in June, features an all-new bold body design and strong 3.5L V6 engine. New to the market is the 2012 C-Class Coupe. This sleek and sporty vehicle is based off the successful C-Class sedan and comes in several variants. In addition, the 2012 M-Class 5-passenger SUV, to be released this month, boasts an advanced gasoline and clean diesel engine that combines responsive performance with responsive efficiency.

The launch of the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz models, the beautifully renovated showroom and the continued drive to improve their position in the Southern California market are not the only reason why their clients have given them some of the highest ratings in customer satisfaction in the country. Their commitment to provide their clients “5-Star Service at One Star Drive” has been engrained in every aspect of their business… from their award-winning service department that promises a “Zero-Wait” guarantee to their inventory of 200 complimentary Mercedes-Benz courtesy vehicles available when your vehicle is being serviced and complimentary car washes.

One Star Drive, Laguna Niguel | 949.347.3700 | www.mblaguna.com

Hope 4 Hanna

According to the leading autism advocacy group, Talk About Curing Autism, one in every 91 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. Increasing at a rate of 10 to 17 percent annually, it’s no surprise that nearly everyone in South Orange County knows someone who’s been affected by this disorder, be it a neighbor, a classmate a friend or your own child. On October 9th at dawn, more than 1,000 people will gather at San Clemente’s Plaza Pacifica shopping center…not for their Sunday morning errands, but to run/walk in the TRACE 3 San Clemente 10k/5k and ½k kids race benefiting Hope 4 Hanna.

The San Clemente-based non-profit, Hope 4 Hanna, was established in May 2008 by its founding board members: Justin and Kristen Alderson and Joshua and Lenè Belden. The inspiration behind the organization was Joshua and Lenè’s daughter, Johanna (“Hanna”), who was diagnosed in October 2006 with Autistic Disorder shortly after her second birthday.

Hope 4 Hanna’s mission is to create a less challenging road for families dealing with autism. Since the inaugural race in October 2009, Hope 4 Hanna has raised and donated more than $150,000 to larger organizations such as Autism Speaks and Talk About Curing Autism (TACA). In addition to generating donations for the research of cures and prevention, Hope 4 Hanna has funded biomedical scholarships, socialization groups and marriage counseling for families in financial need. Recently, they announced a partnership with Courtney’s Sandcastle in San Clemente, providing funding for developmentally disabled play apparatus within the new La Pata/Vista Hermosa Park.

The event features a challenging 10k/5k Run/Walk that is entirely on a paved surface. There is a significant uphill portion during the first mile of the course, followed by a flat transition before a long, downhill finish. The Kids ½k Run/Walk is designed for fun and safety and has both a paved and grassy surface in a contained area. All levels of runners and walkers are welcome and parental assistance is permitted.

New this year is the “walka for TACA” challenge which follows the ½k kids run. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their favorite superhero costume and have fun tackling various obstacles along their journey – busting through a “brick wall” or leaping a tall building in a single bound. This event is being created with ASD families in mind, as parents are required to participate with their children.

The Hope 4 Hanna event will also feature its annual resource fair, offering a wealth of information to families seeking answers about anything from diagnosis to legal issues, to a variety of therapy options. The Wyland Foundation’s mobile learning center and the Ocean Institute’s “Ocean in Motion” van will also be on display.

Whether you are a serious runner, a casual walker or just want to enjoy great fun for a great cause, come out and support Hope 4 Hanna on Sunday, October 9th. The festivities start at 7 a.m. To register, support a participant, make a general donation and to learn more about the event and volunteer opportunities, please visit hope4hanna.com.

Halloween Rocks!
By Shelley T. Hudson

Stop the music! Halloween is just a few short weeks away and so much is happening this year it’s scary. Get in costume, play the part and treat yourself to some hauntingly good fun throughout South OC.

Dana Point
This is the place to be on All Hallow’s Eve. The city is oozing with opportunities for spooky family fun. First up is Saturday, October 22nd, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with the Haunted Campground at Doheny State Beach. The campground will spotlight educational booths and a fun zone for kids. The event is free, but please bring a non-perishable food item donation.

The Ocean Institute’s Tidepool of Terrors takes place on Sunday, October 30th. This annual event is free to kids in costume and features ghost stories, critter crafts and spooky science labs. Kids can trick-or-treat throughout the facility and take part in the costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for Scariest, Ocean-themed and Most Eco-Friendly costumes.

The City of Dana Point is going all out for its First Annual Halloween Spooktacular and Moonlight Movie. This event is absolutely free and is packed with family-oriented activities. The fun starts at 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 28th, at Lantern Bay Park with cupcake decorating, pumpkin carving and a costume parade. The event concludes with a screening of Disney’s Monsters, Inc. at 6:15 p.m. Free popcorn will be distributed during the movie and other refreshments will be available for purchase.

Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is getting in on the frightful action this year with a children’s Halloween Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, October 29th, from 9 to 11 a.m. Kids aged 5 and older can explore the wilderness searching for treats and learning about nature. Beware…the hunt includes a one-mile hike that can be a little steep. The event fee is $2.00 per person and parking is $3.00 per vehicle at Laguna Wilderness Park. 

Laguna Niguel
A Halloween tradition not to be missed is the 11th Annual Haunted Trails event at Crown Valley Community Park with this year’s theme: “It’s a mad, mad world!” Small groups will tour through the very scary trails and experience the fright of their lives. The festivities are scheduled for October 27th through the 29th and it all begins at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $10 per person and organizers ask that you bring only children aged 8 and older.

For a twist on Halloween tradition, check out the Pet Project Foundation and the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter’s Howl-o-Ween at the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel on Thursday, October 27th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. This fundraiser and doggie costume contest supports local animal rescue efforts and is sure to be full of laughs and arfs. Dogs will enjoy “Yappy Hour,” featuring Beastly Bacon and Creepy Chicken flavored waters and owners can sip on wines from Mutt Lynch Winery—we’re talking Unleashed Chardonnay, Merlot Over and Play Dead and Chateau d’Og Cabernet Sauvignon. The cost is a $10 donation for each costumed canine.

San Juan Capistrano
ZOOMARS’ Pumpkinpalooza is back this year and better than ever. No scary stuff here—kids can paint pumpkins, walk through a haze maze and make Halloween crafts every day in October from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The ‘Palooza will take over the train station on Los Rios Street in SJC. While you’re at it, you can treat the family to a Zoomars’ visit as well-where the kids can pet and feed over 100 different animals. Admission is $7.00 for adults and $6.00 for children.

The San Juan Capistrano Historical Society will sponsor a “Ghost Stories” walking tour of Los Rios Street, the oldest residential neighborhood in California. The tours start at the O’Neill Museum on Los Rios Street at 6:30, 7:00 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 29th. Creepy tales of “the lady in white,” “the big black dog” and more will be shared and scared. Reservations are required and the cost is $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. Bundle up and prepare for a chill!

San Clemente Skate & Surf Contest
By Katherine Sweet

It’s time once again for the San Clemente Open Skate & Surf Contest. Whether you’re planning to compete or watch from the sideline or sand, don’t miss the action happening on September 17th and 18th. Jam-packed with activities, this annual event offers kids an opportunity to bring their best moves to the land and sand.

The 11th annual Skate Contest takes place at the Ralphs Skate Court on the 17th. The fourth annual Surf Contest follows at the San Clemente Pier on the 18th. Sponsored by Rusty and Circa and hosted by the Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation, the SC Open Skate & Surf Contest gives local kids of all ages and levels a chance to showcase their board talent. Skateboarders and surfers will demonstrate their best skate run or wave (or both) in a contest to find the best “board sport” athlete in San Clemente.

“We think it is special when younger kids can compete in a healthy competition in the sports they’re learning to love,” says Don Kindred. After contestants strut their stuff, a panel of judges will rate each entrant. While all kids receive a goodie bag full of surf and skate items, the first, second and third place winners in each age category will also receive prizes. This year is the second year a “best trick” contest has been offered, which boasts cash prizes.

Beyond all the fun and healthy competition, the SC Open is also a fundraiser that makes a difference in our local community. All proceeds benefit the San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation to sponsor programs such as the universally accessible playground — Courtney’s SandCastle, the Cyber Café computer lab and recreation scholarships for children in need. Last year’s event raised approximately $10,000, with roughly 100 kids participating in each event.

The event got its start in 2001, when parks commissioner Bill Thomas decided that a community contest at the then-recently opened skate park would allow San Clemente skaters an opportunity to showcase their talent, the park and the sport. After collaborating with San Clemente Recreation, Thomas’ vision became a reality. A few years later, the annual surf contest was added.

For skaters hoping to make it big – such as placing in the California Amateur Skateboard League – the SC Open is a first step and for many kids, it will represents their first competition.

Surf Heritage Day
Mayor Lori Donchak has proclaimed September 17th “Surf Heritage Day” to coincide with the first-ever San Clemente Celebration of Surf. The event will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, September 17th and leads in to the annual Hurley Pro of Surf which begins on Sunday, September 18th. Approximately 4,000 surf enthusiasts will enjoy a party on the lawn with live bands, an art show and exhibits at Steed Park in Rancho San Clemente.

Attendees will have a good time enjoying dinner, dancing and drinks while supporting great charitable causes. Sponsored by Hurley and the San Clemente Rotary Club, Surf Heritage Day is not just about having fun, but is also a celebration of San Clemente’s surf industry and a fundraiser benefitting more than 30 local and international programs.

The Surfing Heritage Museum will be featured at the celebration and will have shuttle service for those wishing to tour the museum’s unrivaled collection of historic surfboards, photos and other memorabilia.

To learn more, visit www.sanclementerotary.org.

Paradise Automotive Group
By Shelley T. Hudson

Paradise Found
When Boston native John Paradise (yes, that’s his real name) packed up his family and moved West 13 years ago, he had hopes of getting a foot in the door of the car business. His wife had family in SoCal, so he figured he might as well sell cars in short sleeves rather than suffer the blistering chill of East Coast winters. A serendipitous meeting on a baseball field gave him just the traction he needed to shape his vision.

That chance meeting was a conversation with Family Toyota’s Marc Spizzirri. Marc offered John a management position with his dealership and from that day forward a lasting bond and mentorship was formed. John’s five-year tenure at Family Toyota (the dealership was sold in 2007) helped him develop the business ethics and management style he brings to his own venture, Paradise Automotive Group.

John applied Spizzirri’s commitment to community and non-aggressive approach to selling cars and brought eight key players along from Family Toyota. What started as a side business for John has become the fulfillment of his dream.

In April of this year, doors opened at Paradise Automotive Group in San Juan Capistrano with the help of landlord Scott Looney, who John credits for making it all come together at this location. Paradise has positioned his business in the marketplace as a discount dealership and promises prices “as close to wholesale as possible.” His offer of affordable luxury is backed up by his impeccable reputation and his ability to consistently price vehicles lower than area franchise dealers. Customers come to the negotiating table armed with information and research, and Paradise answers with transparency and extensive research of his own. He estimates that 70% of his revenue is repeat and referral business, so he strives to get the right customer to the right car every time. The high volume and quick turnover has supported his business model and led to early success for John and his crew and hundreds of happy drivers in Orange County.

John Paradise’s “What can I do for you?” philosophy extends to the local community as well. As a San Clemente resident, husband of a teacher, and father of two, he feels it’s important to invest in the community’s future. He does that by way of area schools. Paradise Automotive has donated cars, sponsored teams and tournaments for Dana Hills, JSerra and San Juan Hills schools, to name just a few.

Service You Deserve
Paradise Automotive’s affiliation with adjacent business Avery Automotive has created the perfect synergy of product and service. Avery’s Jeff Cathcart and Teera Saivichit joined forces last year to offer the finest in automotive repair and maintenance together under one roof. Every vehicle for sale at Paradise is made ship-shape by Avery’s ASE-certified master technicians before making its way on to the dealership lot. With the loyal following of existing customers and the influx of business from Paradise, Avery Automotive has had a packed house from the start. After only three weeks in business, Jeff and Teera had to make room for additional racks to accommodate the increased demand. Their staff of master technicians, led by Service Advisor Jay Amado, services “any make, any model, any time.” The spotless service bays and comfortable waiting area—complete with coffee bar, wi-fi service and plasma TVs—make the experience even better.

Jeff, Teera and Jay were all alumni of Family Toyota’s service department, and they each brought a similar customer service philosophy to the new venture. They pride their department on close attention to detail and routinely notice minor issues with a vehicle and take care of them on the spot. Avery never charges for a vehicle diagnosis, and the “all data” system of transparency lets customers know what they’re getting for their money. Winning a customer’s confidence through this level of dedication has been the cornerstone of Avery Automotive’s success. The loaves of banana bread, plates of cookies and pile of thank-you notes are a testimony to customer satisfaction. “I’ll give you my whole client list,” Jeff says, “and I don’t think you’d find an unhappy customer.”

PARADISE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
32592 Valle RD. • San Juan Capistrano • 949.347.2522 • jparadise.com

Dana Point Food, Wine and Muisc Festival

An eclectic mix of delectables, libations and melodies await you at the 2nd Annual Dana Point Food, Wine and Music Festival, presented by Orange Coast FIAT. The event returns to Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point on Saturday, June 21st. Admission is free. This day of fun in the sun has something for everyone.

Various musicians will entertain the masses throughout the day. Amazing piano players will tinkle the ivories in the wine festival area, jazz percussionists will provide atmosphere in the food festival area, and several string musicians and DJs will be entertaining the crowds throughout the festival.

A number of local restaurants will be in attendance, providing samples of their most tempting dishes. Dana Point will be represented by Choya Japanese Cuisine, Shwack Beach Grill and Stillwater. Laguna Niguel’s Savannah Chophouse, Chaparosa Grill and Bistro K are serving up grub for the masses. Inka Mama’s will be sampling Peruvian cuisine while El Adobe de Capistrano and Casa Ranchero will offer some Mexican favorites. Private Chef Mumsie and OC’s Rock ‘n Roll Chef will demonstrate their culinary skills. Restaurants are joining the event continuously, so check out the website to see the latest additions.

If you are on more of a liquid diet, then you definitely will want to partake in the international wines. Old World meets New World, with wines from France, Italy, Spain and Germany complementing the varietals from California, New Zealand, Argentina and Australia. Over thirty breweries representing more than 60 brands will be pouring their hops and barley masterpieces throughout the day. Stella Artois will have a special lounge area in the beer garden. Hand crafted cocktails will also be in abundance, along with a champagne bar.

Stroll through the exhibitor village, with over one hundred vendors sharing their wares. The festival’s Art in the Park will display wonderful works from artisans, both local and beyond. Street performers will provide lots of smiles in and around the park. For all you cigar lovers, Payne-Mason will be offering Cuban cigar rolling presentations. Pick up a fresh stogie right from the master’s hand.

The Food, Wine and Music Festival sells Gold and Silver passes in advance of the event. Gold passes provide VIP access with a host of amenities that include unlimited beer and wine sampling, full glasses in the VIP area, a delicious lunch or dinner by Chef Mumsie, private bars, upgraded restrooms and more. Gold passes are just $60 in advance or $80 at the event (limited tickets available). Silver passes also offer unlimited beer and wine sampling opportunities and are just $40 in advance and $50 at the festival (limited tickets available). See the website to purchase passes in advance.

Visit FoodWineAndMusicFestival.com for all updated festival information.

2011 San Clemente Ocean Festival
The Greatest Show on Surf

San Clemente Ocean Festival is coming to a beach near you on July 16th and 17th. Each year, tens of thousands of beachgoers attend this annual event featuring water-based activities ranging from standup paddleboard surfing championships and a fishing derby to ocean swims and body surfing championships.

For those preferring to stay grounded, a variety of activities for all ages also awaits at the festival. Landlubbers can enjoy the 18th annual woody car exhibit, the ocean art show, The Great Rubber Duck Race and a beach party & free concert featuring A Bunch of Guys. Kids can participate in the revelry with carnival games, face painting, crafts, the Discovery Science Center, kids’ dolphin dash beach run, a children’s fishing clinic and much more.

All in all, whatever your age, interest or skill level, there is sure to be something for you at the festival. “Our goal is to maintain a quality event, attracting both novice and world-class athletes at a venue for them to enjoy with their friends and families, creating lasting memories and passing on traditions,” says Peggy Vance, Executive Director.

The event got its start back in 1975 with a group of lifeguards who envisioned a series of beach games for the general public. Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, the Ocean Festival is designed to combine ocean awareness with safe, healthy competition and recreational activities. It has become a respected tradition for the local community.

A portion of the proceeds from the San Clemente Ocean Festival benefit local charities that strive to make a difference in our community. The celebration raises funds for charities such as the Jr. Lifeguard program, Adopt-a-Class at the Ocean Institute, The Mentor Program at the Boys & Girls Club and for high school scholarships. “It’s fun and it’s all for a good cause,” shares Todd Bryant, the event’s President. “It’s great to bring the community together. It’s the best event we have in San Clemente. We’re just trying to put on a really great show that everyone can enjoy.”

Take advantage of hassle-free parking. A complimentary, round trip shuttle service will be running from San Clemente High School to the Ocean Festival and back on Saturday, July 16th from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Sunday, July 17th from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Date: July 16th-17th

Admission: FREE

Register: scof2011.eventbrite.com

Schedule/Info: oceanfestival.org or call 949.440.6141

Positively Peruvian
By Bonnie Small

If your bucket list includes exploring the cuisines of the world, you’ll want to head over to the new Inka Mama’s restaurant in San Clemente’s Talega Village Center to peruse some delicious and authentic Peruvian classics!

I definitely recommend starting off with a glass of Inka Mama’s house-made sangria. They offer both red and white versions, made either with merlot or pinot grigio, splashed with fruit juices and garnished with frozen diced green and red apples, nectarines, pears and oranges.

As your Sangria arrives, so will a basket of sliced French baguette and a small jar of jade green Aji – Inka Mama’s house-made, super-addictive sauce made from pureed Serrano chilies and lettuce! This spread has both deep flavor and a kick (butter is provided for less adventurous diners). Long after our bread was gone, we splashed the Aji on our plates with reckless abandon!

With a vast Pacific coastline, Peruvian cuisine incorporates seafood into many of their traditional dishes. The Ceviche – available with either mixed seafood or sashimi-style slices of Alaskan cod – is marinated in lime juice, yellow pepper puree and ginger and then tossed with sliced red onion, cilantro and Peruvian corn nuts called “cancha.”

Topping our list was Inka Mama’s house specialty – Estofado – where thinly sliced medallions of beef are quickly sautéed and then simmered in a sauce made from slowly braised red onions, garlic and cilantro. Another favorite, Arroz con Mariscos, (similar to Spanish Paella, minus the saffron) is rice steeped in a mild brew of water, beer and cilantro and then tossed together with shellfish and spices.

Lomo Saltado is the national dish of Peru and Inka Mama’s turns out a great version of this classic! Strips of top sirloin steak are browned and then sautéed with tomato wedges, sliced onion and French fries and then served with a delicious “au jus” made right in the pan.

For dessert, we selected Sweet Francesca – a crepe filled with fried plantains and caramel sauce and served with Lucuma ice cream (Lucuma is a mild tasting “egg fruit” grown in the Andes.) Que Rico!

INKA MAMA’S in Talega Village Center
821 Via Suerte, #4 • San Clemente • 949. 369 .6262 • InkaMamas.com

Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante
By Bonny Small

If you haven’t visited downtown San Juan Capistrano lately, it’s worth the drive to marvel at the amazing restoration and revitalization. With the opening of the new Regency Theatre, the heart of downtown had a need for additional options for hungry movie-goers. One astonishing highlight is the renovation of the retail space directly below Ruby’s on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Verdugo Street. What had once been a mixture of small stores and quirky walkways is now beautifully unified and reborn as Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante.

Vito’s is family-owned and new to California, but their successful sister restaurant in Mesa, Arizona has given them plenty of time to develop a smooth operation. The owners are very hands-on (you may even see Vito chatting with customers in the dining room) and the staff is very friendly and welcoming.

Fresh rolls and pesto butter will greet you at the table – for apps try the fried calamari which is lightly battered, sprinkled with chile flakes and served with a creamy Cajun sauce. The bruschetta is lightly toasted, mounded with diced tomatoes and fresh basil and then finished with a drizzle of balsamic reduction. So tasty!

From there, the sky’s the limit – get the Piccata with your choice of veal, salmon, or chicken (served with spaghetti and a lemon and caper sauce) or create your own pizza on Vito’s Chicago-style thin crust. Vito’s homemade tiramisu – with a light, fluffy mascarpone layer – was a favorite at our table!

Vito’s lunch specials start at just $7 and a slice of pizza, salad and soda are easy on the wallet at a mere $8.50! They also offer a gluten-free menu, featuring both pasta and pizza, as well as a variety of salads. Kids eat for $1.99 on Sundays, and make sure to stop in on Mondays for “All You Can Eat Pasta.” More good news, Vito’s will soon begin offering home delivery for those staying home to watch movies on DVD!

31781 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
949. 481.8300
VitosPizza.com

Active Culture
By Shelley T. Hudson

In a restored 1920’s Spanish building on South Coast Highway, Faye Clapp and her sister-in-law Jennifer Clapp fulfilled their dream of opening a café that focuses on organic natural foods. Faye and Jennifer named the business “Active Culture” both as a reference to the vibrant, bustling community of Laguna Beach and as a nod to one of their specialty items.

The women worked with well-known local architect Anders Lasater to restore the historic site to its original glory. The group took advantage of the city’s “Open for Business” initiative to get the project going. The year-long process was worth the wait and according to Faye, “the response from the community has been overwhelming.”

Active Culture’s mostly organic menu answers the demand for a healthy, quick, delicious alternative to the fast food joints and sandwich shops that dominate the local landscape. Faye’s enthusiasm for fresh, natural ingredients and healthy cooking is reflected in the extensive and varied menu. Her commitment to eco-consciousness is practiced right down to the spoon as well. Most of the disposable items are made from recycled materials and the plastic utensils are made from a corn starch compound….so you have many reasons to feel good about your meal.

Active Culture opens early for breakfast, which is great news for surfers and morning walkers. The breakfast bowls are an ideal start to a productive day. The “Acai Bowl,” packed with Greek yogurt, acai, organic granola, flaxseed, banana and berries is one of the most popular. Fresh bagels served open-faced with almond butter and bananas or cream cheese and avocado are also perfect combinations of healthy fats and muscle-building protein…and they’re scrumptious.

A hit for lunch and dinner, Active Culture’s rice bowls are offered in a ton of interesting combinations. The “Laguna Beach Bowl” has a base of organic brown rice, goat cheese, prosciutto, apples, dates and fresh herbs. The best seller, Faye says, is the “Whole Bowl,” which features a secret vegan sauce. Wrap versions of the bowls are also available, in organic tortillas, of course.

Faye is especially proud of their unique take on an old favorite—the smoothie. All smoothies are non-dairy and have a frozen coconut base. The “Chocolate Bliss,” made with almond milk, and the “Naked Coconut” are local stand-outs. Even the coffee is distinctive at Active Culture. Only organic, fair-trade Kean Coffee is served here, and the droves of morning devotees are a testament to the difference!

With ten frozen yogurt options and over thirty toppings, your favorite combo is only limited by your imagination. The half-organic yogurts are primarily non-fat (also available in no-sugar and non-dairy varieties), all with the important live and active cultures that make frozen yogurt a healthy snack or dessert. The frozen yogurt is self-serve, so you can enjoy as much or as little as you like.

Faye attributes the success of Active Culture to overwhelming community support. She’s proud to have earned the loyalty of so many “regulars” since she and her partner opened the doors in November. Faye is also grateful for the droves of tourists who stumble in from the local galleries and beaches in search of quintessential “Southern California.”

Check out Active Culture on your next summer stroll and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal or frozen yogurt. Take in an art exhibit, bask in the warm sun, gaze out at the ocean view…and enjoy!

Active Culture: 1006 S. Coast Hwy in Laguna Beach Corner of Anita and PCH 949.715.5188