Food & Drink

TANNINS Restaurant & Wine Bar

TANNINS Restaurant & Wine Bar

TANNINS Restaurant & Wine Bar

by Dina Scaglione

Most foodies would agree; a good meal should be an experience savored and enjoyed, a time to marinate over palatable flavors and hearty conversation with friends. For nearly 20 years, Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar, in San Juan Capistrano, has facilitated this type of dining experience with its authentic southern Italian fare, fueled by superb wine and a contemporary, welcoming vibe. Committed to the definitive dining experience, Tannins offers interesting wine and food pairings, with over 40 varietals to choose from. Five years ago, Cordon Bleu trained, and certified Master Chef Marc Cummings took over Tannins’ kitchen, breathing new life into the menu and transforming it into something worth writing home about.

Kick off your meal with the tender Calamari Fritti, delicately fried and accompanied by a fiery Arrabbiata dipping sauce for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The Tannins salad with garbanzo beans, shallots, capers and avocado, drizzled with a citrusy Poppy seed dressing, is the perfect starter — with or without the addition of chicken, salmon or shrimp. Then, there’s the pasta… authentically and unpretentiously prepared from Old World recipes. The signature Pancetta Carbonara, crafted from pan-fried pancetta, freshly cracked egg and finely grated Pecorino is a longstanding favorite. The Fettuccini Toscana is another popular dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts and blackened chicken, amid a flavorful cream sauce. Like many classic Italian restaurants, Tannins also serves up tasty pizzas from the traditional Margarita with Roma tomatoes and aromatic basil to its Barbeque Chicken and Gourmet Veggie Pizza. Desserts are prepared fresh daily by a local pastry chef and include a delightfully moist carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and the elegant Tiramisu.

Tannins has met the challenges of COVID-19 head on by updating its lively indoor bar and wine cellar, cozy wine cave, inside dining and expanded covered patio areas to allow for safe and comfortable social distancing. Visit Tannins for your next meal or special occasion and enjoy the ambiance and its distinctly flavorful cuisine. Open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner from 4 to 9 p.m.

TANNINS RESTAURANT & WINE BAR
27211 Ortega Highway • San Juan Capistrano
949.661.8466TanninsRestaurant.com

Instagram: @tanninsrestaurantandwinebar
Facebook: @TanninsRestaurantWineBar

New Mandarin Garden

New Mandarin Garden

New Mandarin Garden

by Dina Scaglione

New Mandarin Garden, purveyors of gourmet Chinese cuisine, makes the top of the list for local Asian eateries. Located next to Whole Foods Market in Laguna Niguel, it’s been serving up Cantonese-style specialties and generations-old recipes for nearly 20 years. With each dish made-to-order daily, the restaurant always uses fresh, not frozen, ingredients — never skimping on portions and flavor.

For starters, enjoy classic appetizers like the tender, oversized, pan-fried Potstickers, also known to some as dumplings. Equally oversized are the crispy “East Coast-style“ egg rolls, and for those of you from the East Coast, you will readily appreciate the flavorful difference. The classic Pork Egg Fu Young, made fresh for each order, is generously portioned and amply topped with a thick dark house glaze. The savory Salt and Pepper Fish is thinly sliced and lightly fried, served with vibrant red peppers, shredded cabbage and green onions. For noodle lovers, the Singapore Rice Noodle, filling enough to serve as an entree, features ample chunks of chicken, pork and shrimp, liberally peppered with spicy yellow curry.

Specialty items at New Mandarin Garden include Peking Duck, House Special Beef and Sizzling Black Pepper Filet Mignon. The popular Honey Walnut Shrimp is lightly battered, drizzled with a creamy honey sauce and embellished with crunchy walnuts. For those looking for a lighter meal, New Mandarin Garden’s heart healthy menu includes options like fresh steamed vegetables in a light sauce or a special hot garlic sauce, just garlicky enough to keep things interesting.

A large variety of lunch combinations are offered Monday through Saturday, starting at $9.95. Perfect for two, family-style dinners are also avail-able, and include soup, appetizers and your choice of entree, starting at $19.95. For your next special event, New Mandarin Garden provides a variety of catering options to suit your specific needs. New Mandarin Garden is open Monday through Sunday, with lunch served from 11:30 to 3 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. (9 p.m. on Sundays).

NEW MANDARIN GARDEN
23902 Aliso Creek Rd, Laguna Niguel
949.495.0281 | NewMandarinTakeOut.com

Paddy’s Station

Paddy’s Station

Paddy’s Station

by Dina Scaglione

There’s something about the unpretentious charm of a neighborhood pub… tipping back a sudsy pint and watching a game while chatting casually with like-minded folks. That’s precisely how I’d describe Paddy’s Station, situated alongside the historic train depot in downtown San Juan Capistrano.

In February of this year, new owner David Woodnutt secured the location previously inhabited by The Vintage Steakhouse. He set about to create a relaxed grub pub, reminiscent of his upbringing in Ireland where other ex-pats could also experience a slice of home — sans the grey weather. By relieving the previous fine dining establishment of its heavy window-draped interior, David unearthed the train car station’s natural essence and brought a new light to the property with a genuine, warm-spirited Irish pub feel. Raised in Dublin, the former pilot and real estate professional knows the name of nearly everyone who enters, greeting guests with a lilting Irish accent and unaffected charm.

Opening on April 25, amidst COVID-19’s accompanying eat-in limitations, Paddy’s kicked off with takeout offerings. This spot is far from your fussy, sit-down restaurant and it serves up delicious, reasonably priced Irish fare like bangers and mash, fish and chips and a variety of meat pies with, of course, a large selection of cold beers. The fish and chips are light, crispy and amongst the best you’ll find, made with fresh cod, delicate and flavorful, served with French fries and malt vinegar. The freshly-made meat pies are amply filled with chicken or beef, encapsulated in a buttery pastry shell — soul food that warms the heart.

Music and dancing are integral to Paddy Station’s lively theme with toe-tapping bands performing 3 days a week and solo artists almost daily. Keep an eye out for the soon-to-open red caboose refashioned into a cigar lounge, ready for private bookings any day of the week, noon to midnight. And later this month, join fellow football (soccer as we say in the U.S.) fans, when the British leagues launch their fall season.

When you want to grab a bite, there are clearly plenty of wonderful choices in San Juan Capistrano. When you want to experience tasty comfort food in an enveloping, carefree pub environment, Paddy’s Station is the place to be.

Paddy’s Station
6701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano
949.661.3400
PaddysStation.com

Marbella Farmers Market

Marbella Farmers Market

Marbella Farmers Market

by Dina Scaglione

When our world feels a bit upside down, it’s nice to know there are constants we can rely on. Since 1993, Marbella Farmers Market in San Juan Capistrano has remained a tried and true, go-to staple, offering fresh groceries and tasty, ready-made meals. From farm to table produce to made-to-order sushi and gourmet items, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at this local favorite in the Marbella Plaza.

As you walk through the doors, you’re immediately struck by a plethora of delicious cuisine and wonderful aromas. For foodies like myself, Marbella Farmers Market is a feast for the eyes, with a massive gourmet deli featuring Boar’s Head meats and specialty cheeses alongside signature sandwiches and fanciful paninis. Nearly two dozen unique salads, including bow tie with sun-dried tomatoes and Asian chicken are made fresh daily. Indulge in a king-sized salad bar featuring literally dozens of savory side dishes and accoutrement. Gluten free and organic options are also in abundance to accommodate nearly any diet or nutritional needs. The butcher shop highlights a variety of prime meat, poultry, fish and sausages, from marinated chicken to wagyu beef. To satiate your sweet tooth, the colorful bakery offers a substantial variety of tempting cookies, amazing cakes and freshly baked breads.

In a cooking rut? Pick up one of Marbella Farmers Market’s convenient heat-and-serve meals, including poached salmon made with dill and white wine, Tuscany herbed chicken, or seared pepper-crusted ahi – all house-made daily. Party platters include signature wraps, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, crudité and fruit and cheese options. Wine connoisseurs, craft beer aficionados and those who fancy an occasional glass must check out the impressive array of options. If you need a quick hostess or housewarming gift, Marbella offers cards, baskets and other unique pieces to appropriately celebrate that special person or event.

Whether you’re an amateur chef looking for the finest ingredients, grabbing a quick cup of Joe, or feeding a famished family, Marbella Farmers Market has just what you are craving — open Monday through Sunday, from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Marbella Farmers Market
31109 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano
949.248.1067 • FarmersMarket92675.com

Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli

Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli

Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli

by Dina Scaglione

Every once in a while, you get a hankering for something different, yet familiar — a craving that only a good deli sandwich will satisfy. The next time your belly nudges, be sure to hit up Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli in San Clemente for a delicious, piled-high masterpiece.

Billy’s tagline: “a cut above the rest,” aptly describes its commitment to offering only the finest product selection to its loyal following. Established in 1990, Billy’s is a local fave, long-admired for its reliably authentic deli offerings and full-service butcher shop, purveying high quality meats including black angus steak, fresh seafood and a generous selection of spices, marinades and dry rubs. To complete your meal, check out Billy’s side dishes, such as the classic potato salad and a Mediterranean Greek, loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and bell peppers.

The sandwich makers at Billy’s are skilled artisans, building handcrafted deli-style sandwiches with generous portions of meat, cheeses and veggies. To say these sandwiches are huge is an understatement. Along with Boar’s Head products, Billy’s also offers an array of its own roasted and smoked roast beef, pulled pork, shredded chicken, and meatballs along with 30+ entrées and side selections that deliver a one-stop shopping experience. With such an endless variety of made-to-order sandwiches, it’s difficult to choose just one.

The popular Turkey Avo is overflowing with roasted turkey, provolone cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, pickle, red onion, mayo, yellow mustard, and served on soft squaw bread. The Poor Boy is your classic sub, heaving with ham, mortadella, salami, provolone, mayo, deli mustard, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, pepperoncinis and Italian dressing on a French roll. And, yes,  even in beachy South Orange County, you can find a good Ruben — it’s at Billy’s. The Best Ruben Ever features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, 1,000 island dressing, generously layered between two slices of grilled rye. “Now, That’s a Meatball” is your traditional Italian staple, made with hand-made meatballs and served hot with tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese and pepperoncinis — on a warm, French roll. Delizioso!

The next time you’re hosting an event, consider Billy’s catering menu which offers a selection of crowd pleasers for any size gathering. Walk in and peruse the vast deli and specialty items or order online. Billy’s is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. on Sundays — closed Mondays).

111 Avenida Del Mar  |  San Clemente  |  949.498.5924

BillysSanClemente.com

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen

bueno bueno mexican kitchen

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen

by Dina Scaglione

South Orange County has long been known for its wide variety of south of the border specialty restaurants, from traditional favorites to jazzy fusions. If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican food experience with an intriguing twist, Bueno Bueno may just be the place for you. Ideally situated in the heart of historic downtown, near the train station and the Mission, Bueno Bueno imbues a distinct Spanish charm, espousing the warmth of San Juan Capistrano, bringing a balance of new moments blended with traditional tastes.

It’s not often that you’ll find light, healthy or vegetarian items on a Mexican food menu, but the old world meets new world offerings at Bueno Bueno to deliver plenty of great-tasting and satisfying options. The Capistrano bowl, for example, is loaded with Mexican rice, black beans, iceberg lettuce, sweet corn, queso fresco, roasted pepitas, radishes, pico de gallo, avocado and glazed with a light, zesty cilantro dressing. The delectable Enchiladas de la Casa begin with homemade corn tortillas, rolled with queso fresco and topped with a tangy red sauce, served with beans and rice — with the option to add protein if you desire. The Chile Reyeno, playfully named after Chef Rey Pinedo, features a vibrant green pasillo pepper, slightly spicy and infused with authentic smoky flavors, overstuffed with rice and queso fresco, and topped with grilled shrimp. If tacos are your jam, then try one of the house specialties, teeming with carne asada, beer-battered shrimp or fried calamari. The Tinga de Pollo taco, accompanied with savory chipotle caramelized onions and crunchy cabbage, is definitely not to be missed.

Dine al fresco on the patio or sit safely and socially distanced in the expansive dining area. Adult beverages include beer and wine from Mexico and interesting, hand-crafted cocktails. Bueno Bueno serves tequila, of course — or as they call it — “soup of the day.” The name says it all; Bueno Bueno is doubly good!

 

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen
26762 Verdugo St
San Juan Capistrano
949.388.4588
BuenoBuenoKitchen.com

Food Delivery, Takeout and Curbside in San Clemente, Orange County

Food Delivery, Takeout and Curbside in San Clemente, Orange County

Food Delivery, Takeout and Curbside in San Clemente, Orange County

Many thanks to Susie Lantz, Membership Director of the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce for sharing the following list of restaurants and food & beverage businesses, most of whom are offering Food Delivery, Takeout and Curbside in San Clemente, Orange County!

Active Culture
Active Culture – Natural Café & Yogurt   »  111 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 276-4625   »  View Menu
Antoine's Café
Antoine’s Café   »  218 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-1763   »  View Menu
Avila's El Ranchito
Avila’s El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant   »  204 Ave. Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5000   »  View Menu
BallPark Pizza San Clemente
BallPark Pizza San Clemente   »  831 Via Suerte, 101, SC 92673   »  (949) 218-0991   »  View Menu
barnoa wine
Barnoa Wine Bar & Bistro   »  831 Via Suerte, #106, SC 92673   »  (949) 388-4378   »  View Menu
billys meat seafood deli
Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli   »  111 Ave. Del Mar, 1A, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5924   »  View Menu
blasze pizza
Blaze Pizza   »  225 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, SC 92672   »
(949) 612-2748  »  View Menu
cafe mimosa
Cafe Mimosa   »  243 Avenida Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 481-6780   »  View Menu
cafe rio
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill   »  628 Camino de los Mares, SC 92673   »  (949) 627-4811   »  View Menu
cassanos the pizza king
Cassano’s Pizza   »  818 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 388-7611   »  View Menu
caterinas gelato
Caterina’s Est.   »  1990 614 Avenida Victoria, Ste C, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-7085   »  View Menu
el jefe cafe
El Jefe Café   »  106 E. Escalones, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-4010   »  View Menu
hh cottons
H.H. Cotton’s American Bar & Grill   »  201 Avenida Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 940-6785   »  View Menu
italian cravings
Italian Cravings   »  105 S. Ola Vista, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-2777   »  View Menu
jimmy johns
Jimmy John’s Sandwiches   »  122 South El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 481-6911   »  View Menu
juice my heart
Juice My Heart   »  804 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 481-0700   »  View Menu
la colombiana columbian cuisine
La Colombiana   »  1640 N. El Camino Real, A, SC 92672   »  (949) 441-7656   »  View Menu
la siesta cocina
La Siesta Mexican Restaurant   »  920 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-3094   »  View Menu
las golondrinas
Las Golondrinas Mexican Food   »  821 Via Suerte, SC 92673   »  (949) 276-7464   »  View Menu
left coast brewing
Left Coast Brewing Co.   »  1251 Puerta Del Sol, SC 92673   »  (949) 276-2774   »  View Menu
llama llama
Llama Llama Wine   »  San Clemente   »  (562) 241-1699   »  View Menu
llama llama
Los Patios   »  111 W Avenida Palizada, San Clemente, CA 92672   »  (949) 492 – 0162   »  View Menu
lost winds brewing
Lost Winds Brewing Company   »  924 Calle Negocio, C, SC 92673   »  (949) 244-4288   »  View Menu
malulu sushi
Malulu Sushi   »  415 E. Avenida Pico, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5331   »  View Menu
mongkut thai
Mongkut Thai Restaurant   »  212 Ave. Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-3871   »  View Menu
moulin
Moulin   »  120 W. Avenida Pico, SC 92672   »  (949) 441-7040   »  View Menu
oc tavern
OC Tavern   »  2369 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 542-8877   »  View Menu
panera bread
Panera Bread   »  101 W. Ave. Vista Hermosa, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-2387   »  View Menu
pedros tacos
Pedro’s Tacos   »  2313 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5904   »  View Menu
peets coffee
Peet’s Coffee & Tea   »  801 Ave. Talega, 2A-101, SC 92673   »  (949) 325-0487   »  View Menu
pick up stix
Pick Up Stix   »  415 Avenida Pico, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-1226   »  View Menu
pierside
Pierside Kitchen & Bar   »  610 Avenida Victoria, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-0980   »  View Menu
rockwells
Rockwell’s Bakery, Cafe & Bar   »  101 W. Ave. Vista Hermosa, 116, SC 92672   »  (949) 799-2020   »  View Menu
rubys diner
Ruby’s Diner   »  101 W. Ave. Vista Hermosa, 600, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-7829   »  View Menu
sanchos tacos
Sancho’s Tacos   »  1101 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-0488   »  View Menu
the shwack cantina
Shwack Cantina   »  1527 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-7182   »  View Menu
sonnys pizza and pasta
Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta   »  429 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-2540   »  View Menu
sur coffee
Sur Coffee   »  118 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  View Menu
taka-o
Taka-O Japanese Restaurant   »  425 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-7111   »  View Menu
tamarindo
Tamarindo   »  110 South El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (714) 640-9371   »  View Menu
thai palace sc
Thai Palace   »  1021 Avenida Pico, A, SC 92672   »  (949) 369-1819   »  View Menu
thai paradise
Thai Paradise   »  3551 Camino Mira Costa, B, SC 92672   »  (949) 489-9914   »  View Menu
the cellar
The Cellar   »  156 Ave. Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-3663   »  View Menu
zebra house coffee
Zebra House Coffee   »  1001 S. El Camino Real, A, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-6976   »  View Menu
Dad’s Liquor & Deli   »  2421 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-8121
Fred’s Market Liquor   »  220 S. Ola Vista, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-5465

OC Pizza

OC Pizza in San Juan Capistrano

OC Pizza

Get Your Slice of the Pie

by Dina Scaglione

OC Pizza in San Juan CapistranoThe new OC Pizza in San Juan Capistrano is anything but another pizza joint. Each patron who enters will walk out with far more than a belly full of delicious food. Tasty pizza, salads, pasta, and sandwiches are only part of the experience — every meal is dished up with a large serving of good old-fashioned hospitality.

Owners Michelle and Patrick Peters designed their new eatery with a dual mission. They’ve made it their goal to offer high-quality, great-tasting food that is affordably priced while treating every customer as if they were family.

In September 2019, family-run OC Pizza opened its doors with the intention of differentiating itself from its predecessor. Starting from scratch, they’ve developed all new recipes including house-made sauces and freshly baked bread, along with high quality meats and cheeses. They’ve paid special attention to the small stuff, which has translated into big differences in the final product. Baking fresh bread for sandwiches, making cookies on site, and cooking sausage with a pizza, to infuse a fresh-smoked flavor, are just a few of the ways OC Pizza goes the extra mile to ensure that all guests receive a deliciously warm and positive experience.

In addition to the ubiquitous Italian staples we all love, OC Pizza offers inspired creations such as its 3 Cheese White Pizza with olive oil, ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan and an enticing Chicken Alfredo Pizza topped with chicken, artichoke, mushrooms and roasted garlic. The Pesto Pizza is my personal fave, adorned with chunks of chicken, tomatoes, spinach, parmesan and garlic. The tasty Grinder sandwich features pepperoni, salami, ham and mozzarella, warmed on freshly baked bread with a soft, crunchy texture. Generally, salads offered at pizza places are hardly worth mentioning, but OC Pizza carries the flavors of its homemade sauces throughout its dressings, to complete the culinary experience.

OC Pizza is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., so swing by for take-out or come in and stay a while. Family-friendly and casual, kids can enjoy the build-your-own pizza option while you sip an IPA beer or a glass of wine. Be sure to inquire about kid’s build your pizza parties and if you order online, look for the ‘secret menu.’ At OC Pizza, you may enter a stranger, but Michelle and Patrick will make sure you leave with new friends.

OC Pizza | 32341 Camino Capistrano | San Juan Capistrano | 949.429.8888 | OCpizzaSJ.com

Rancho Capistrano Winery

Rancho Capistrano Winery

Rancho Capistrano Winery

By Dina Scaglione

At last, Rancho Capistrano Winery has launched its long-awaited, second location in downtown San Clemente on Avenida Del Mar. Since the doors opened on October 9, it’s been humming with activity and the chatter of local cork dorks enjoying the unique selection of proprietary wines and delicious California cuisine.

The first location in San Juan Capistrano opened in 2014 and hails as Orange County’s largest winery with more than 40 vintages, cultivated from grapes grown in the best wine-making regions globally. In a few short years, Rancho Capistrano has amassed 20 Best of San Juan awards, including best restaurant, best dinner, best lunch, best healthy options, and best ambiance. Once you step inside the inviting atmosphere of the new San Clemente location, and experience the enchanting menu, you’ll understand why.

Rancho Capistrano Winery embodies a welcoming spirit that says: grab a seat, make yourself at home, sip and taste (I recommend the very sippable Mourvedre). The abundance of mouth-watering appetizers are the perfect intermingling of wine-friendly apps and unique treats. The Fig Bruschetta made with a schmear of light gorgonzola, topped with a chewy fig compote and arugula, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze is a must. For starters, the Ranch Wedge is a close cousin to the wedge salad we all know and love; the inclusion of pickled onions and red heirloom tomatoes gives this salad a wonderful tang and sweetness. As far as entrees, few things shout So Cal dining like locally caught fresh fish. The local Corvina Sea Bass is elegantly seasoned, topped with a cilantro jalapeño vinaigrette, accompanied with seasonal vegetables and cilantro-lime rice.

Chef Adrian De La Torre features a full and diverse menu, adjusted seasonally and prepared to accommodate every palette, from the steak-loving carnivore to the health-conscious vegan. Gluten-free options are also available. Wine lovers… why not experience Rancho Capistrano’s wine anytime by joining their wine club? Join 1500 local members and have wine conveniently delivered right to your doorstep.

Both dog and family friendly, Rancho Capistrano’s Happy Hour is offered Monday through Friday, from 3 to 6 p.m.; dinner is served Monday through Sunday from 3 to 9 p.m. Rancho Capistrano also serves lunch daily, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are suggested and can be made on the website. The Sunday Brunch, offered from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., is the perfect way to cap off the weekend.

124 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente
949.276.2197
RanchoCapWinery.com

Bistro Provincia

Bistro Provincia

Bistro Provincia

Fusion Cuisine & Bar

By Dina Scaglione

When you envision the landscape of Dana Point restaurants, you might conjure up images of California cuisine, seafood eateries and lively pubs. Bistro Provincia offers a departure from the Dana Point dining scene you may be accustomed to, serving up an elegant, yet exotic culinary experience that’s difficult to put in the proverbial box.

Unique and flavorful best describes Bistro Provincia’s fusion cuisine, inspired by Executive Chef Manuel ‘Manny’ Diaz, who brings a multi-ethnic bistro-type flair, cultivated from years of cooking alongside French chefs in Los Angeles. Chef Manny’s wife and co-owner, Veronica, greets guests with a genuine warmth and charm, adding to the many ingredients that have made Bistro Provincia a go-to spot in the quaint Lantern District area of Dana Point.

Bistro Provincia delivers an interesting blend of Asian, Latin and French dishes, prepared tapas-style and as hearty, large plates. Whether you prefer to dine al fresco, perched at the marble ensconced bar or seated in the rustic dining area, there’s an inviting ambience and range of fare to suit the most discerning guests.

I became an instant fan after sampling the restaurant’s Caribbean Shrimp and Mango Tostaditas, featuring roasted wild shrimp, fresh mango, red onion and a healthy dollop of lime-cilantro aioli served up on crispy blue corn chips. I also highly recommend the Chicken Curry Lumpia with jidori chicken and veggies, rolled and lightly fried atop a tangy coriander-curry dipping sauce. If you want a truly different dish, try the wok sautéed rice noodles and duck entrée, with flat rice noodles and tender ginger-roasted duck, sautéed baby bok choy and sprinkled tangy dried cranberries. Another brilliant blend of flavors is the Lemongrass Jidori Chicken Breast, with aromatic lemongrass accompanied by vegetable Thai curry fried rice and bok choy. Cap off your meal with the Yin-Yang, Bistro Provincia’s signature dessert; a moist, dark chocolate cake topped with a delicate Chantilly butter cream frosting.

Situated in Dana Point’s Park Plaza, tucked between PCH and Golden Lantern, Bistro Provincia is open Tuesday through Sunday for both lunch and dinner. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 9 p.m. (5 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday). Choose from a wide assortment of adult beverages, including hand crafted cocktails, draft beer and wine. Stop in for Tapas Hour: early tapas from 4 to 6 p.m. or late-night tapas from 8 p.m. until closing.

Bistro Provincia
34091 La Plaza, Dana Point
949.482.1011
BistroProvincia.com