Min’s Dumpling

by Dina Scaglione

With the winter chill still lingering, there’s nothing quite like warm, flavorful comfort food to satisfy the soul. Just in time for the season, San Clemente welcomes Min’s Dumpling on Del Mar—a delightful new spot offering fresh and authentic dishes that go beyond your typical Chinese takeout.

Min’s serves up a rich menu featuring fluffy, handmade steamed dumplings, crispy pot stickers, stir-fried favorites, and more. These dumplings are anything but ordinary: light, tender, and generously filled with options like classic pork, comforting chicken soup, or a hearty vegan blend of cabbage, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and glass noodles. Other must-tries include the BBQ pork buns, deep-fried mini buns, and steamed custard buns. The steamed sweet buns are a particular fan favorite, offering just the right amount of sweetness to end your meal on a high note.

For those who love a crispy bite, the pan-seared pot stickers, filled with your choice of pork, chicken, or shrimp alongside cabbage, ginger, and green onion, are sure to please. Meanwhile, Min’s stir-fry dishes, like white-meat orange chicken, honey walnut shrimp, and tender Mongolian beef, offer bold, satisfying flavors.

The menu’s side dishes are no afterthought, either. Highlights include the deep-fried string beans, perfectly sautéed in a savory brown sauce, and the chicken fried rice, loaded with sliced chicken breast, peas, carrots, green onions, and eggs. If you’re starting with appetizers, the crispy scallion pancakes (dubbed “Chinese pizza”) deliver a flaky exterior with a soft, chewy interior. Or try the crispy sesame balls filled with red bean paste, and don’t miss the potato string shrimp—light, crunchy, and paired with a tangy dipping sauce. For a refreshing balance, the cucumber salad and seaweed salad add a zesty, nutritious touch.

Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Min’s Dumpling is the perfect spot for both dine-in and takeout. Whether you’re gathering with friends or simply indulging in a quiet meal, Min’s cozy atmosphere and satisfying menu make it an irresistible addition to San Clemente’s dining scene—comfort food for any season.

 

Min’s Dumpling
211 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente
949-545-7266

Kabob Village

by Dina Scaglione

Hey all you kabob and savvy food lovers — a fun and savory culinary destination has just arrived near downtown San Juan Capistrano that you are sure to enjoy. Recently opened November 1, Kabob Village is the 5th location in the restaurant chain, their first in Orange County. The restaurant is where authentic and flavorful Persian fare is perfected, celebrated and taken to a whole new level.

Privately situated in Mercado Village, Kabob Village welcomes you into a spacious dining area, enclosed patio, separate bar and an inviting atmosphere, ushering you into an unforgettable dining experience. Kabob Village is no rookie kabob restaurant; they have been serving up Persian dishes for more than 25 years, with its original location in Los Angeles.

To prepare your palate, menu starters consist of all things Mediterranean, including torshi (pickled vegetables), feta cheese and herbs, village hummus and Ikra – creamy grilled eggplant with bell peppers and caramelized onions. Other mouthwatering appetizers include tahchin, a rice yogurt casserole with saffron and various meat stew toppings; the tahdig appetizer with crisp rice served plain or with your choice of stew; the mast khiyar, a close cousin of tzatziki, made with chopped cucumber and fresh mint, all accompanied by warm pita.

Dinner selections feature a variety of kabobs: chicken shish kabob, chicken koobideh, beef shish kabob, beef koobideh, beef barg and beef soltani. Seafood options include fresh salmon, white fish or trout, served with your choice of saffron, herb, dill fava, cherry, lentil or berry rice. Choose from a variety of hearty, flavorful stews including Ghormeh Sabzi, Fesenjan and Gheymeh, all created with aromatic herbs and fresh ingredients, adding unique depth and complexity. For large groups, Kabob Village also offers various sized family platters featuring skewers, appetizers, and salads.

Entertainment at Kabob Village features live music and belly dancing every Saturday evening. Come to Kabob Village and experience authentic Persian cuisine, complete with a spirited ambiance and delectable kabobs — without leaving South OC.

 

KABOB VILLAGE IN MERCADO VILLAGE
31952 Camino Capistrano, Suite A1 & A2
San Juan Capistrano
kabobvillage.net

Inka Mama’s

Spice, Soul, and Sizzle

by Dina Scaglione

If you’re craving something bold and exciting beyond the usual dining options, look no further than Inka Mama’s in Old Towne Plaza San Clemente. This vibrant Peruvian restaurant offers a warm, welcoming ambiance and a dynamic menu featuring a fusion of flavors that perfectly balances bold spices, fresh ingredients, and authentic recipes. It’s a spot that combines the comfort of familiar dishes with the excitement of trying something a little different.

Start your meal with one of their standout appetizers, such as the ceviche. Forget any preconceptions you have about this dish—Inka Mama’s version is light, zesty, and surprisingly unique. Made with tender white fish marinated in lime juice, ginger, and cilantro, it’s topped with red onions and the unexpected crunch of fried corn nuts. If you’re craving something heartier, the Chicharron de Pollo is a must. This crispy chicken, marinated in garlic and spices, is served with pickled red onions, adding a tangy and smoky depth to every bite. Empanada lovers will also be delighted by the delicate pastry shells, fried to perfection and stuffed with your choice of shrimp, steak, chicken, or spinach, all served with a bright lime dipping sauce that adds a citrusy punch.

For the main course, the Saltado Vainitas is a classic, featuring your choice of protein mixed with sautéed green beans, broccoli, onions, and tomatoes, seasoned with fragrant herbs and served over fluffy white rice. The Paella is another popular option, featuring cilantro-infused rice mixed with garlic, peas, carrots, and peppers—each bite a celebration of rich, aromatic flavors. For a more comforting dish, try Inka Mama’s Scampi, which pairs succulent seafood with a creamy garlic sauce and tender pasta. And if you’re in the mood for something hearty, the Parihuela, a Peruvian seafood stew, is a flavorful, brothy delight. Packed with white fish, mussels, shrimp, and calamari, it’s simmered in a rich broth of onions, cilantro, potatoes, and Inca wine—a meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

With five locations across Southern California, Inka Mama’s San Clemente offers a specialized menu and handcrafted cocktails. For a truly flavorful journey through the soul of Peruvian cuisine, make your next dining experience at Inka Mama’s unforgettable.

 

Inka Mama’s
111 West Avenida Palizada, #303
San Clemente
InkaMamas.com

Toast to the Casa Renaissance

SEPTEMBER 21 | 5 TO 10PM

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is delighted to announce the return of its 22nd annual fundraising gala, Toast to the Casa, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 5 to 10 p.m. This year’s theme, “Renaissance,” promises a magical evening filled with medieval-inspired festivities. Guests will be transported to a bygone era, complete with a knight in shining armor, awe-inspiring aerialist performances, and even a mythical dragon encounter. For those seeking adventure, the event offers axethrowing activities, and there will be plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, including a popular 360 camera.

The evening will feature a feast of delicious offerings from over 15 local eateries, including Casa Romantica’s exclusive caterers: Colette’s Catering, 24 Carrots, and Carbonara Catering. Guests can indulge in snacksized bites and desserts like Chunk N’ Chip ice cream sandwiches. Specialty cocktails will also be available, courtesy of the event’s exclusive spirit providers, Nolet’s Gin and Ketel One Vodka and Botanicals.

“Toast to the Casa is a beloved event that holds a special place in our hearts,” adds Jacqui Groseth, Executive Director of Resource Development and Administration. “We invite everyone to join us for an evening of spectacular entertainment, delicious cuisine, and an opportunity to support our vital cultural and educational programs.”

The annual fundraising event provides major support for all of the cultural and educational programs throughout the season, raising essential funds to preserve, rebuild and maintain this historic venue for future generations to enjoy. Welcoming 40,000 visitors a year, Casa Romantica is truly a community treasure in San Clemente. Tickets are $225 per person, with sponsorships starting at $1,000. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary evening of entertainment, community, and philanthropy. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Go.CasaRomantica.org/Toast.

 

Casa Romantica
Cultural Center and Gardens
415 Avenida Granada
San Clemente

Basil Brazil

by Dina Scaglione

If you’re craving Brazilian cuisine, a traditional steakhouse might come to mind. However, a visit to Basil Brazil will challenge your perceptions of the region’s exotic fare. While meat-centric dishes are certainly present, Basil Brazil offers a variety of flavorful specialties you won’t easily find elsewhere. This new spot in San Juan Capistrano, run by owners Rodrigo and his chef wife Jackie, presents a culinary adventure with authentic, healthy meals made from ingredients imported from Brazil. It’s a taste of Brazil right in the heart of south OC.

Start your meal with options like freshly made feijoada bites, or Bolinho de Feijoada, which feature smoked pork loin, bacon, and sausage, all rolled together in a black bean puree and deep-fried. You’ve likely never tasted anything quite like it. The Aipim com carne-seca (Aipim means yuca in Portuguese), shredded beef mixed with caramelized onions, parsley, aromatic spices, served alongside yuca fries is another standout starter.

For main entrees, try the Moqueca, a delicious mix of white fish, shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, served with white rice and farofa, a ground cassava root that adds a savory crunch. Another must-try is their unique take on Stroganoff, available with either beef or chicken in a decadent mushroom cream sauce, served with white rice and crispy potato sticks. Refresh your palate with light beverages like Guarana Antarctica, Cashew and Passion Fruit juices, or indulge in specialty drinks like the essential Caipirinha, made with white wine, lime juice, and sugar. Desserts include Pudim, a milk flan, or Manjar de coco, a coconut flan.

Basil Brazil is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., closing at 8 p.m. on Wednesdays and 6 p.m. on Sundays. Enjoy Happy Hour Wednesday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. For an enhanced dining experience, visit on Thursdays to enjoy live jazz music and complete your immersive Brazilian experience.

 

Basil Brazil
31878 Del Obispo St #120
San Juan Capistrano
949.678.4924
basilbrazilcuisine.com

Bluestone Lane Coffee

by Dina Scaglione

“Mateship” …may be an unfamiliar term in South Orange County, but once you step inside the comfy ocean vibe of Bluestone Lane Coffee, the meaning of this phrase will become abundantly clear. Unlike most grab-and-go places, this Australian-based cafe with cheerful baristas who welcome you as “hey mate,” invites you to pause and soak in the laid-back culture of Down Under. Situated on Del Mar in prime San Clemente, where espresso-style coffees are served savory and strong, meant to be sipped s-l-o-w-l-y.

For fans of traditional brews including lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos, Bluestone has it all. The Flat White, with a delicate layer of foam, offers a melodious and smooth experience that comes highly recommended. Tea lovers can explore a variety of organic teas such as classic Earl Grey, Sencha Green tea, Chamomile, Peppermint, Lemongrass, Ginger, or the Melbourne Breakfast blend. They also offer an assortment of cold-pressed juices like the Portsea, featuring cucumber, apple, kale, lemon, ginger root, and spinach. Alternatively, choose from a range of mouthwatering smoothies like the refreshing Berry Brekkie, blended with strawberry, blueberry, banana, lemon juice, honey, oat milk, and a hint of mint.

For a light meal or sumptuous “brekkie,” indulge in the Avocado Toast with the Lot—a perfect treat where multigrain toast is generously layered with avocado, feta, tomatoes, prosciutto, and topped with microgreens. The Feel Good Salad lives up to its name with premier ingredients including arugula, cherry tomatoes, avocado, tart pickled onions, crumbled cashews, dried cranberry, and aromatic dill accompanied by a light lemon vinaigrette. Craving a high-protein option? The Sunshine Burrito features scrambled eggs, spinach, bacon, avocado, cheddar cheese, and dill mayo—a truly satisfying choice.

In our hurried lives, grabbing a good old cup of Joe can often feel transactional, but here, patrons are encouraged to hunker down and stay awhile. Whether it’s to read, work, hang out with friends, enjoy a delicious snack, or simply chill for a bit, Bluestone Lane fosters an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment. Open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with more than 60 locations across the US and roots hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Bluestone Lane beautifully personifies the region’s distinct and rich coffee culture.

 

Bluestone Lane Coffee
223 Ave Del Mar, San Clemente
BluestoneLane.com

Kiaan’s Fine Indian Cuisine

Flavors That Dance — Spices That Sing

by Dina Scaglione

There is something paradoxically comforting yet exotic about ethnic food on a cold winter day. For me, Kiann’s is that distinctive place where aromatic spices meet savory fare, served up with gracious hospitality. Opened in Talega since October 2023, locals are already flocking to this authentic northern Indian eatery with its unique bistro-like ambiance. Elegantly appointed and tastefully embellished with white tablecloths and long-stemmed wine glasses, this is truly Indian food at its finest.

For starters, Kiaan’s offers a nice variety of appetizers including crispy puff pastry samosas stuffed with potato and peas. You can also find other Indian classics like Saag Paneer with creamy spinach, Indian cheese with a touch of curry; or delicately fried and slightly crunchy Onion Bhaji or the Aloo Tikki, with minced potatoes seasoned with sweet masala. For entrées, there are equally as many tasty options for carnivores and vegetarians. The Butter Chicken features tandoori roasted chicken cooked with creamy tomato sauce and fenugreek leaves. For the lamb lovers, there are several entrees to choose from including the Lamb Seekh Kebab, precisely marinated with herbs and spices or the boneless Lamb Vindaloo, braised with potato, onion and tomatoes. Vegetarians will appreciate the Navaratan Korma with seasonal veggies, simmered in a creamy cashew and almond sauce. Must-have sides include Kiaan’s Special Rice adored with almonds, raisins and cashews, fragrantly seasoned with saffron. And who can resist a basket of warm Naan bread? Options include plain, butter, garlic and chili.

As a tribute to the owner’s toddler son, Amrit saw a vision for Kiaan’s to bring something unique and satisfying to Talega. Kiaan’s is open for dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (closed Mondays) and offers daily lunch thali specials, Tuesday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For just $18 per person, three-course meals are offered on the lunch menu — an appetizer with your choice of either Saag Paneer, Baingan Bharta, or Coconut Shrimp, followed by your choice of Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Vindaloo, or Chicken Curry, culminating in the final course with your choice of Lamb Tikka Masala, Lamb Vindaloo and Lamb Rogosjosh. Pick up or dine in to enjoy the delicious scents and distinct coziness of Kiaan’s Fine Indian Cuisine.

 

Kiaan’s Fine Indian Cuisine
821 Via Suerte, Suite 104, San Clemente
949.568.1727 • KiaansRestaurant.com

Choice

Superfood Bar & Juicery

by Dina Scaglione

For some of us foodies, the pandemic provided an opportunity to hit the reset button and pay closer attention to wellness and nutrition. From cold-pressed juices to superfood smoothies and other delectable bites, San Clemente’s newest eatery believes a nutritious meal should be delicious, life giving, and attainable.

Far from another juice bar or acai bowl joint, Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery serves up plant-based, gluten free, sustainably grown and downright tasty meals. Owner and founder Nastasha McKeon began Choice in San Diego in 2014, which has since evolved into a staple for locals and tourists alike, delivering a unique take on flavorful, colorful, and responsibly sourced plant-based food.

With six booming locations in Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, Nastasha began searching for a seventh in South OC to share her mission and vision for lifestyle nutrition. An avid surfer, Nastasha has always held a soft spot for San Clemente’s blissful waves and laid-back coastal vibe, so naturally she saw the potential to bring this positive energy to the downtown area. Selecting a location on the corner of Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real, the go-to-market strategy has been simple: no big grand openings or elaborate marketing plans. Nastasha prefers a grass roots approach, bringing value to the community, building relationships, and supporting other businesses through co-marketing activities.

Wondering what makes Choice different from other healthy menu restaurants? First, employees are appropriately trained to educate diners on the “plant food is medicine” philosophy. Their role is to help customers understand the value of organic food and ensure each location is approachable, friendly and inviting. Another key difference is in the integrity of the products. Choice serves only fresh, certified organic fruits and vegetables, preparing everything in-house, including baked goods and even the almond milk. The fresh fruit and veggie juices include the earthy beet juice with grapefruit, apple, ginger, lemon, chia and mint. All are made from pure ingredients, with no added water or any kind of pasteurization which can change the molecular structure. Made-to-order smoothies boast plant-based protein, lots of fiber and rich omegas.

If you’re feeling run down, grab the Dawn Patrol cold-pressed juice featuring carrot, orange, ginger and turmeric to help bolster your immunity. Nastasha recommends the Ginger Bae with apple, lemon and ginger to aid digestion. Her favorite creation is the metabolism boosting Skinny Green with cucumber, apple, spinach, kale, jalapeno and lime — a little heat and a ton of flavor.

Choice’s acai bowl is of the highest quality. They also offer flavorful smoothies for wellness on the run. The Avatar smoothie is made with blue majik, a bright aqua powder derived from spirulina extract, which is both filling and delicious. The Spicy Amore smoothie is made with plant-based milk, dates, eco-protein powder, banana, maca, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne, sprouted almonds and cacao. Naturally sweetened with whole fruit, any smoothie can also be made into a bowl. They are blended extra thick and enjoyed with house made granola and fresh fruit toppings.

Choice also offers grab and go meals like the Mediterranean power bowl made with quinoa, spinach, kalamata olives, cherry tomato, and cucumber. The avocado toast features homemade super loaf bread layered with roasted garlic hummus, avocado, sprinkled Brazil nut parmesan “cheese,” and served with a spring mix side salad. Delicious snacks like the protein brownies are made with sprouted almond flour, almond butter, dates, applesauce, coconut oil, vanilla, protein powder, coconut flour, cacao powder, and sweetened with coconut sugar. They deliver all of the delicious taste, without the sugar crash.

Healthy food can truly taste amazing, provide satisfying nutrition, and arm you with the proper brain fuel to power you through the day. Whatever preconceptions you may have about eating well, Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery will have you rethinking the way you eat and feel. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the winter months and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in spring through fall. Stop by and get a taste of good health.

 

Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery
104 No. El Camino Real, San Clemente
949.538.6735

Ysidora

Inn at the Mission

by Dina Scaglione

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

OC Tavern

Grill + Concert Hall

by Dina Scaglione

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

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

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

 

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