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

The Rooftop Kitchen + Bar

by Dina Scaglione

It doesn’t get much better than a tasty craft cocktail, perched on a rooftop with a view of a fiery orange sunset. If that sounds appealing, then say hello to the area’s newest dining destination, Rooftop Kitchen and Bar in historic San Juan Capistrano. The tasty craft cocktails, farm-to-table specialties and hip, comfortable motif will keep you coming back for more. 

Longtime partners Marc Resnick and Archie Hami found this gem of a location, the former Ruby’s, amid the height of the pandemic and set their sights on creating something fresh and novel. Opening on Swallow’s Day in March 2022, RTK+B is delivering on that promise, complete with spectacular views, a California-coastal-meets-comfort-food menu, and artfully created craft cocktail libations. 

Enjoy a craft beer, glass of wine or one of several signature cocktails like Ring of Fire, with smokey mezcal, passion fruit, citrus and Aperol. Margarita lovers will delight as they sip the Gran Torino, infused with Patron Silver. Popular shareables include ahi and chips, stacked with ahi, avocado, tomato, and cucumber, swimming in a tangy dressing. The must-have fresh shrimp ceviche is loaded with shrimp, cucumber, carrot, tomato, red onion, jalapeno, and Tajin in a citrusy lime marinade. By far, the pulled pork sandwich with honey mustard barbeque sauce, classic cole slaw, pickles, and cilantro is the best handheld around. Generously portioned, yet price conscious entrees include the Capistrano Chicken with grilled chicken and fresh veggies, layered in a cream corn sauce. The savory short rib pappardelle pasta features braised short ribs, mushrooms, caramelized onion, and arugula, languishing in a flavorful stroganoff sauce. Meat lovers will appreciate the Ribeye Fillet, a hefty 8-ounce cut, accompanied by garlic, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and potatoes topped with a spicy gorgonzola sauce. Definitely check out the daily fresh-made desserts prepared by a local pastry chef. 

Live music happens Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m., and all afternoon on Sunday. Tunes run the gamut from light jazz to pop to country, certain to get you swaying to the rhythm, whether you are looking for a fun date night, a cozy family meal, or enjoying drinks with a group of friends. Planning your holiday party or sports banquet? RTK+B offers private banquet facilities for parties of 50 to 100. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. (dinner only Tuesday – Wednesday) and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. Stay tuned for more details on their Sunday brunch! 

The Rooftop Kitchen + Bar
31781 Camino Capistrano Ste. 301
San Juan Capistrano
949.503.3358
RooftopOC.com

Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge

by Dina Scaglione

We all love a great story that takes us to unexpected places. Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge will certainly treat you to a palatable adventure, with pleasant yet unexpected turns, leaving you salivating to consume another savory chapter. Scarlet’s story began in January 2020, penned by a husband and wife team, Chef Paige and Matt Riordan. Chef Paige’s New York City training has created a modern speakeasy, with a laid-back, fashionable dining experience. Like a charming novel from decades passed, Scarlet is situated against a peaceful backdrop of rolling hills, where soft evening breezes remind you the ocean beckons only a few miles away. The bourgeoning community of Rancho Mission Viejo has warmly embraced the family-owned and operated Scarlet for bringing a beautiful richness to comfort food, in an unhurried setting. 

Every good story grabs you from the beginning, and Scarlet is no exception. For starters, I recommend the tuna tartare with thinly sliced cucumber, avocado, ponzu sauce, spicy mayo, wasabi crema, and sesame seeds, accompanied by crunchy wonton chips. Worth every decadent bite, the bacon wrapped dates and the crack fries, which absolutely live up to their colorful name, are a must-try. Lighter options include the summer beet salad showcasing roasted beets, goat cheese, pesto, couscous, and fresh basil tossed in a tasty balsamic, maple mustard vinaigrette. Taco lovers will find some interesting twists on their favorite handhelds, including lobster, blackened fish or slow cooked barbeque carrot tacos, served on corn or flour tortillas. Scarlet offers a plethora of generously portioned entrees including surf and turf, or pan-seared pork tenderloin with sweet potato puree and yam hash, generously ladled with a delicious maple bourbon sauce. Liquid Gold is a generations-old family recipe featuring tender flavorful pork and lamb ragout with pappardelle and shaved parmesan. Sunday brunch fans will delight in traditional favorites such as Eggs Benedict as well as more exotic faire like Lobster Grilled Cheese, Dutch Pancakes, or Duck and Waffles. 

Weekly specials include Wine and Whiskey Wednesdays, Taco Tuesdays, with live music Wednesday through Saturday. Located in Rancho Mission Viejo, enjoy Sunday Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Closed Mondays. Visit Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge and write your own culinary tale. 

Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge
30865 Gateway Place
Rancho Mission Viejo
Scarletkl.com
949.503.3086

Parmiss Mediterranean Restaurant

by Dina Scaglione

A new eatery has emerged in Mercado Village near downtown San Juan Capistrano, showcasing savory Mediterranean fare, served up in a quaint and inviting atmosphere. Family-owned and operated, Parmiss Mediterranean Restaurant brings a delightful new energy along with an abundance of delicious and unique Persian flavors. Opening its doors on April 13, the local community has embraced Parmiss like a long-lost friend — lured by its warm, generous hospitality and delectable cuisine.

When you visit Parmiss, prepare to experience an array of sumptuous dishes, such as appetizers like Panir-o Sabzi, comprised of cheese and fresh mint, Persian style marinated olives, calamari and chicken wings. The herbaceous falafel is light and tasty with just the right amount of crunch. Side dips include creamy hummus, Babaghanoush and Mast-o Khiar, freshly prepared with yogurt, cucumber and dill. I highly recommend the Koobideh — made with minced ground beef or chicken, seasoned with grated onions and spices, appropriately served with Basmati rice, grilled tomato, onions, and green peppers. The marinated rack of lamb is not to be missed — so incredibly tender and flavorful you won’t believe your taste buds. You will also find an assortment of kabobs to suit any palate, including elegantly marinated salmon, chicken, filet mignon, shrimp or veggie skewers. At Parmiss, rice is anything but dull. The Albaloo Polo compliments any meal, seasoned with cinnamon, saffron and a surprising touch of sour cherries — adding just the right balance of aromatics and sweet tang. Additionally, their popular family platters allow you to taste an assortment of entrees that easily serves 6 to 8 people.

Parmiss is open daily for lunch and dinner, take-out or dine in. Sit at the bar and linger over a lovely glass of wine or a cappuccino and enjoy hookah on the patio and music each weekend.

Parmiss Mediterranean Restaurant
31952 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
949.503.1249
ParmissRestaurant.com

Gemmell’s Restaurant

Bon Appétit!

by Dina Scaglione

Say “bonjour” to the delectable French cuisine you’d expect to find at some of Paris’ best eateries, without traveling abroad. Imaginatively healthy, freshly prepared, made-when-you-order meals await at Gemmell’s Restaurant. For more than 20 years, this Dana Point Harbor gem has transported diners to a time and place where quality food and deliberate meal preparation was both fashionable and personal.

Long-time restauranteur Byron Gemmell has found a way to elevate fine dining without any of the pretense you might expect. Bringing more than 50 years to the table, chef-owner Gemmell delivers a full menu complete with traditional, Old World fare and a few surprising twists. After two decades, Gemmell’s continues to create artful masterpieces for locals and visitors, with a hint of the French countryside.

Walking through the menu is a delicious adventure, whether you relish classic French fare or something a bit more daring. Must-try dishes include the housesmoked wild salmon, pâté de canard, creamy lobster bisque and the hearts of romaine salad with roasted walnuts, crumbled blue cheese and diced tomatoes. Whether you prefer fresh fish or exotic game, Gemmell’s offerings will not disappoint. Savor the poached salmon, embellished with a champagne lemon dill cream sauce, Sand Dabs Meniere with white wine, butter, parsley, lemon and butter sauce, or Shrimp Provençale with delicately sautéed Gulf shrimp, diced Roma tomatoes, basil, parsley, and caper sauce, all served with rice and vegetables. Carnivores will appreciate Gemmell’s succulent and slow roasted duck in a banana liquor reduction or the roasted lamb with fragrant thyme and garlic demi-glace, or sirloin steak, seared to perfection and finished in a bordelaise sauce. Of course, one’s meal is never complete without dessert; whether you choose the decadent flourless chocólat cake, fresh lemon tart with shortbread crust, or the soufflé served with a rich crème anglaise sauce; each one is worth every sinful bite.

There’s no need to travel to France when culinary masterpieces are available right in Dana Point. Make your reservation for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch, served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at GemmellRestaurant.com.

Gemmell’s Restaurant
34471 Golden Lantern
Dana Point • 949.234.0063
GemmellRestaurant.com

Carlos Mexican Restaurant + Cantina

by Dina Scaglione

As we step out and about, dining with family and friends is high on the list of things to do. One of Dana Point’s best scenes for a casual, al fresco experience is Carlos Restaurant in Dana Point. With its sun-dappled Saltillo-paved patio, outdoor fire pit, ocean breezes and savory fare, we’re reminded of what we’ve been missing at this local gathering place.

For more than 50 years, Carlos’s has commanded the ample corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Alcazar Drive as the go-to locale for authentic Mexican food. Known for an incredible array of traditional dishes, including Fajitas, Pollo Ranchero, Chili Verde, Menudo and the hard-to-find Nopalitos – the latter two items are uncommonly served 7 days a week. What began as an intimate, family-owned coffee shop in the early 70’s quickly evolved into a beach city staple for authentic Mexican cuisine. Perhaps a bit lesser known, but every bit as delicious, is Carlos’s abundant and fresh selection of seafood options. Fish Tacos, stuffed Seafood Enchiladas and 7 Mares Soup, made with fish, crab, mussels, clams, octopus, calamari, shrimp and vegetables are just some of the popular offerings. My fave is the Camarones A la Diabla featuring spicy jumbo shrimp delicately sauteed in onions, garlic, tomatoes and bell peppers, served with rice, refried beans, and warm tortillas.

Craving a hearty breakfast? Carlos Restaurant is also home to a traditional Mexican and American-style breakfast, served each day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The expansive menu boasts all of your morning favorites, including homemade Chorizo and Scrambled Eggs, Huevos Rancheros, Carnitas and Eggs, a selection of freshly-made omelets, breakfast burritos and “choose your size” stack of fluffy pancakes.

Stop by for Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and check out Carlos’s weekly Taco Tuesdays, starting at 2 p.m. Treat yourself to Lobster Wednesdays from 4 to 9 p.m., where mouth-watering garlic, butter-basted whole or half lobsters are grilled to perfection. If you’re celebrating a birthday, baby shower or other special event, call to reserve a cozy corner inside or a tranquil spot on the patio.

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Carlos Restaurant is your recipe for relaxation, so take a break from cooking and unwind with a tasty Margarita. Still owned and operated by the same family since 1972, Carlos’s remains a dedicated purveyor of delicious food, always accompanied by warm and friendly service.

Carlos Mexican Restaurant + Cantina
34224 Pacific Coast Hwy in Dana Point
949.496.4470
CarlosCantinaDP.com

Paddy’s Station

St. Patrick’s Festival

by Dina Scaglione

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

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

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

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