The Lobster Shack

San Clemente

by Dina Scaglione

Once upon a time, a ten-year-old boy from Venice Beach set out on a bonding trip with his father to the East Coast. This innocuous road trip became the stuff dreams are made of, a jaunt that introduced a young boy to lobster rolls, and planted a seed that grew into what is now The Lobster Shack. Most of us can recall those palpable moments that define our life’s calling. Moments frozen in time where we remember every smell, every taste. That’s the impetus for The Lobster Shack, the newest eatery in Old Town San Clemente that adds west coast flair to quintessential east coast fare.

New England transplants will be pleasantly surprised by brioche so light and lobster so sweet, they’ll swear they’re back in Cape Cod. The Lobster Shack’s brioche rolls are baked fresh daily with flour imported from back east to give it a light, airy texture. Fresh fish is flown in daily, mostly from the East Coast; nothing is ever frozen or reheated. Seafood is generously layered, without heavy, fussy dressing to over-complicate the experience. Your choice of chunky lobster, succulent crab or flavorful shrimp is piled high and held together with a light lemon butter aioli sauce. Share the ‘Trio for Two” where you can experience all three savory staples in a marriage of perfection — served with your choice of two sides: Blue Cheese Cole Slaw, New England Baked Beans, or Cape Cod Kettle Chips. Start your meal off with a cup of house-made Clam Chowder or Lobster Bisque, piping hot and richly flavored.

“Think globally and support locally” is owner Dan Naughton’s mission for The Lobster Shack. As a big believer in supporting the local community and preserving our oceans, anything left over at the end of the day is donated to a local food bank that feeds those in need. In his commitment to sustainable cooking methods, Dan abides by the United Nation’s sustainable development plan to reduce his global footprint and only sources from fisheries that adhere to the FAO’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Fishing.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Lobster Shack delivers an experience you don’t often find in South OC and gladly one you won’t soon forget. Mention The Local DISH Magazine when you stop in and take $2.00 off your lobster roll.

The Lobster Shack
111 W Avenida Palizada #104, San Clemente
949.503.1119 • TheLobsterShack.us

The Fuel Shack

by Dina Scaglione

“People will forget what you said; people will forget what you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” This sums up the experience at The Fuel Shack in San Clemente. From the moment you walk through the door of this recently opened restaurant, you’re immediately greeted with a warm smile and a genuine ‘happy to see you’ hello, as if you’re part of the family.

The Fuel Shack is an eatery where you not only feel welcome, but where unique, fresh-to-order breakfast and lunch is prepared with a tremendous amount of care and creativity. Featured menu items are made using a slow-cooking methodology — an old-school technique that enhances the flavors in each dish, without a fryer, griddle or grill.

Yolanda, The Fuel Shack’s manager, is a retired pediatrician and life-long chef who leverages a wonderful fusion of ingredients from her travels abroad and from time spent as a child cooking in the kitchen with her loving grandma. For those of us who grew up in a home that revolved around family gatherings and intentionally prepared meals, the ‘food is love’ feeling at The Fuel Shack certainly rings true.

Looking to start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast? Then, the Tropical Matcha, a coconut and matcha waffle, generously topped with a medley of tropical fruits, whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate is just the fix. For those wanting something a bit more hearty, don’t pass up the Savory Waffle Sliders: two cornmeal waffles nestled around Oaxacan-style black beans, cheese and the signature Kickin’ Chicken Tinga or veggies — if you prefer a meatless dish. This two-fisted sandwich is finished with your choice of fire-roasted salsa, salsa verde, or chimichurri sauce for that extra kick. No modern breakfast place would be complete without the popular avocado toast on its menu. The Fuel Shacks’ Awesome Avocado features seasoned avocado, micro greens, tomatoes, bacon and a cage-free egg, all loaded generously on a thick slice of Texas toast.

The Fuel Shack aims to wake you up with the aroma of freshly brewed gourmet coffees, your favorite concoction from its espresso bar, house-made cold brew and delicious teas. A beautiful selection of assorted baked items, from moist, oversized muffins to mouth-watering, homemade banana bread topped with a cream cheese frosting, are a definite can’t-miss.

Stop by and fuel up! Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekends, The Fuel Shack is conveniently located on the corner of Camino de Estrella and Camino Mira Costa, across from the Sprouts shopping center.

The Fuel Shack
360 Camino De Estrella
San Clemente
(949) 388-4015
TheFuelShack.com

Italian Cravings

by Dina Scaglione

With a name like Scaglione, you might think I’d be a snob when it comes to Italian fare. For those of you who also grew up with Pasta Sundays and the aroma of sauce (or gravy as some of you may know it) simmering on the stove, Italian Cravings is a must-visit dining destination. The warm and inviting, yet unassuming, eatery is located just off Avenida Del Mar in downtown San Clemente. Serving up pizzas, pasta and sandwiches, even the most discerning “paisans” will feel right at home.

There’s an old saying amongst Italian cooks, “There is no such thing as too much garlic.”  This adage rings true when it comes to Italian Cravings’ delectable Bruschetta Alla Abruzzo. Toasted slices of garlic bread are accompanied by fresh chopped tomatoes, mozzarella, lotsa garlic, basil and, of course, EVOO. For a savory dish with a bit of a kick, try the Sautéed Shrimp Cajun appetizer, served with a flavorful, zesty sauce.

For pasta dishes, I’d recommend Tony’s Special. This house favorite is a hearty penne pasta served with fresh shrimp, asparagus and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy alfredo sauce. Another dish that won’t disappoint is the Cravings MaMa Mia — mostaccioli pasta with grilled chicken, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes served with a delicious creamy marinara sauce.

The restaurant’s priced-right “Dinner for Two” special includes: two glasses of beer or wine, two entrées, and two salads or soups for a mere $35. Other weekly specials include Monday evening Spaghetti and Meatballs for only $7.95 and Tortellini Tuesday for only $8.95. On Wednesdays, come in and enjoy $10 bottles of wine or half-off house wine.

Located in the heart of San Clemente, Italian Cravings offers outdoor covered seating, on a pet-friendly patio. Lunch specials are served Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include your choice of one entrée plus a fresh salad or soup for just $9.95.

Open 7-days-a-week for lunch and dinner, from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., the aptly named Italian Cravings is sure to satiate both fellow paisans and comfort food aficionados alike. 

Italian Cravings
105 S. Ola Vista  •  San Clemente
(949) 492-2777   •   ItalianCravings.com

Los Patios

Mexican Cocina

by Dina Scaglione

The next time you have a hankering for freshly made, delicious Mexican fare, then you’ll want to check out Los Patios Mexican Cocina. Situated in the historic San Clemente Old City Plaza, Los Patios’ unobtrusive corner location welcomes you in with its inviting outdoor patio, quaint ambiance and expansive menu. A favorite with in-the-know locals for 18 years, the warm and friendly service and tasty dishes will win you over and keep you coming back.

For starters, seafood fans will enjoy the shrimp and fish ceviche — light, healthy and prepared fresh every day, served with crackers and crisp sliced cucumbers for dipping. Hearty guacamole is also made fresh daily and a consummate local fave. The Queso Fundido is another tempting appetizer created with a delicious combo of cheeses topped with chunks of seasoned chorizo and jalapenos. Don’t let the peppers scare you; this dish is flavorful and not too spicy. Pair it with a cold Negro Modelo and you are all set for a light bite or the beginning of a delicious meal.

From cheesy quesadillas to hot soup to stuffed enchiladas, there’s no shortage of imaginative and tasty house creations at Los Patios, all prepared using the freshest ingredients and beautifully presented. Love Chile Verde? This one is made with moist tender shredded pork, perfectly seasoned and amply covered in a signature Verde sauce. Los Patios also serves exotic cocktails, cold beer, red and white wine and your choice of flavored margaritas.

Having a party? No problem. The restaurant’s catering menu is completely customizable to the size and needs of your specific event. Select your menu item, the quantity, and the kind folks at Los Patios will provide an estimate. The experienced and professional staff can assist with weddings, anniversaries, reunions, private parties and business meetings.

As a 3-year winner of San Clemente’s Salsa Challenge, Los Patio is a go-to spot for serious Mexican food lovers. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Friday and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Lunch Specials are also served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Los Patios
111 W Avenida Palizada #17
San Clemente, CA 92672
(949) 492-0162
LosPatios.com

enoSTEAK

by Dina Scaglione

Located at the Ritz Carlton is enoSteak, an elegant and contemporary chophouse. Complete with an ambiance imbued with soft jazz music, lively artwork by Sandra Jones Campbell, and attentive service, enoSteak offers an upscale culinary experience. This intimate steakhouse is the perfect place to linger, a spot that feels more like an escape than a dining destination.

I recommend starting your evening with the artisan cheese and meat board, while you sip a glass of wine, chosen from their expansive wine list. For my fellow cork dorks out there who are consistently underwhelmed with the typical “by-the-glass” offerings, you are in for a real treat. Whether it’s a mellow Merlot or a complex Cab, enoSteak’s impressive wine offering will not disappoint.

Intro your entrée with your choice of salad; my favorites are the burrata and strawberry salad with spinach and pickled spring onion, topped with a savory balsamic glaze. Wedge salad fans will also enjoy this traditional favorite, served with crumbled bacon, blue cheese and shaved onion, generously layered with a creamy buttermilk dressing. The must-have starter is their delectable French onion soup – warm, cheesy and heavenly.

For the main course, experience enoSteak’s signature cuts of hand-crafted meats, from the highest quality pasture-raised beef, perfectly prepared to melt in your mouth, and served with an assortment of signature sauces. Pescatarians can enjoy a generous salmon filet with a Moroccan glaze or the succulent butter basted scallops with smoked pork belly and buttermilk puree.

What is commonly known as a “side dish,” enoSteak fondly refers to as “enhancements.” Choose from sautéed mushrooms, drenched in a lovely sherry cream sauce, loaded fingerling potatoes, truffled white cheddar cavatelli (my favorite!) Yukon potato mash, grilled zucchini and squash or creamed corn. You may need to sample several of these flavorful dishes to get the full experience and round out your meal.

Be sure to save room for dessert as enoSteak’s offerings are beautifully prepared and sinfully delicious. Choose from a variety of sumptuous treats including a layered chocolate cake with fudge sauce and charred meringue or crème fresh and berries, layered between paper-thin sheets of crispy wafer.

Next time you are looking for a tasteful and well-dressed dining experience, look no further than enoSteak. They are open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and reservations are recommended.

enoSTEAK
Located at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point  •  949.240.2000
enoSTEAK.com

Flipped Doughnuts

Doughnuts • Coffee • Chicken

by Dina Scaglione

As you enter Flipped Doughnuts and Coffee, you’re immediately greeted by a sign that reads: “Good Things are Coming.” That’s an understatement of what you’ll encounter when you sit back and enjoy Dana Point’s newest artisan-style eatery and its trendy, laid-back style, befitting its Pacific Coast Highway location at The Row.

As the new kid on the block, Flipped is committed to delivering the freshest and most delicious doughnuts in the world. After one bite, you’ll agree that these artfully crafted and creatively designed delights will have you quickly rethinking your go-to maple glazed old fashioned. Each doughnut is made from a traditional cake-style batter foundation with playful twists and thoughtful ingredients incorporated to create savory treats like the Blueberry with Almond Streusel Cake, Maple Bacon & Cheddar and Crème Brule doughnuts, just to name a few.

My personal favorite is the Brown Butter Cake Doughnut, made with buttermilk and cinnamon, then crowned with a crumbly cream cheese topping – talk about moist, light and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The newest addition to Flipped’s menu is a Strawberry Butter Crunch Doughnut with pastry cream. Think Strawberry Shortcake with a deliciously creamy filling. Beyond heavenly!

If salty-sweet is your weaknesses, then you must try Flipped’s Waffles & Fried Chicken breakfast sandwiches. Tender strips of made-to-order fried chicken are nestled between two crispy waffles, along with a fried egg, sliced bacon and Japanese mayo. Be sure to add a side of signature seasoned fries, served with an assortment of 7 dipping sauces — including garlic jam, spicy ranch and sweet and spicy.

And, of course, nothing goes better with doughnuts than a satisfying cup of freshly brewed coffee, espresso or cappuccino. Try Flipped’s own signature blend, made from the highest quality Arabica beans, roasted each week to retain its complex flavors and freshness. Shakes, smoothies and a variety of teas are also available.

Need a caterer for your next event? Look no further than Flipped for a menu that serves up something a bit different to your guests. Stop by Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. or order online at FlippedDoughnuts.com for an ultra-convenient experience.

Flipped Doughnuts
34255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 103
Dana Point
(949) 388-1393
FlippedDoughnuts.com

Gemmell’s Restaurant

Bon Appétit!

by Dina Scaglione

Prepare yourself for a gastronomic adventure as you explore vibrant, flavorful dishes, unlike anything you have tasted before at Gemmell’s French Restaurant. Celebrating 17 years in Dana Point, Gemmell’s is that unique kind of dining destination, complete with a snug French ambiance, set to a backdrop of seductive Parisian music. Award-winning Owner and Chef Byron Gemmell brings his 49 years of culinary experience to the harbor, preparing every delicious dish from scratch.

I suggest starting your dining experience with the Feuillette, a fluffy puff pastry, wrapped around asparagus spears and layered with a creamy tarragon wine sauce. Add shrimp or scallops and this becomes a satisfying meal unto itself. The Hearts of Romaine salad is a wonderful twist on the famous wedge salad, topped with roasted walnuts, crumbled blue cheese, diced tomatoes and topped with a delicious Bordeaux vinaigrette dressing.

Gemmell’s Chicken Elizabeth is anything but your typical poultry entrée. Fresh chicken breast is sautéed with artichoke hearts, garlic and shrimp, smothered in a citrusy chardonnay sauce, and paired nicely with rice and steamed veggies…unbelievably moist and flavorful. The tender Pork Tenderloin is topped with a delectable Madeira wine demi-glace and accompanied by roasted potatoes and sautéed vegetables. Chef Byron’s Roasted Duck is a complete departure from what you may have experienced with duck, without the typical gaminess or fat. Sliced lean and topped with a unique caramelized banana rum sauce, you’ll be tempted to lick the plate.

No meal is complete without dessert, but you’ll be especially tempted to indulge at Gemmell’s. Like all of the restaurant’s dishes, the desserts are also made from scratch, and the proof is in the pudding! Do yourself the favor of ordering The Harlequin Soufflé when you start your meal; it takes 25 minutes to prepare, but is so worth the wait. Half chocolate, half vanilla, this soufflé is gooey and rich and imploding with a crème Anglaise sauce. Another decadent option is Gemmell’s Crème Brûlée – a deliciously smooth, custard, crowned with caramelized sugar and assorted berries.

Experience the best of French-Continental cooking without leaving Dana Point and plan to be swept away with every savory bite of Chef Byron’s beautifully prepared meals. Gemmell’s has been rated as one of Orange County’s Best Continental restaurants by ZAGAT — after one taste of their skillfully prepared meals, you will quickly agree.

Gemmell’s Restaurant
34471 Golden Lantern • Dana Point
(949) 234-0063 • GemmellsRestaurant.com

Celebrate Orange County Restaurant Week!

Eat. Drink and Repeat for 7 days! March 4 – 10

Explore Orange County one meal at a time. Nothing and we mean nothing brings people together like food! Orange County’s most treasured event is celebrating TEN Years. Restaurants are dishing up delicious food AND cocktails at fantastic prices during Orange County’s most anticipated culinary event. From all corners of the county, this foodie celebration provides food lovers the opportunity to indulge and explore Orange County’s favorite restaurants.

The only thing to make ALL week is reservations.
Get out there and celebrate!

These menus showcase some of the region’s most talented chefs who have personalized each menu to reflect their culinary style. The prix fixe menus are priced at $10, $15 and $20 per person for lunch, and $20, $30, $40 and $50 per person for dinner. The only thing to make for dinner during Restaurant Week is reservations! This is the time for food lovers to try new places, enjoy a romantic dinner, get a group of friends, and dine out! Enjoy a week of fabulous dining, start planning your week of great eats today!

Why Dine Out During OC Restaurant Week?

• It only happens once a year!
• No grocery shopping and no dishes, just dining out all week!
• Explore restaurants you’ve always wanted to try while they have these incredible menus.
• Dedicate this week to breaking bread with friends and family.
• Get to know Orange County Restaurants one meal at a time.
• It’s only ONE week that’s why it is called Restaurant Week.

OCRestaurantWeek.com

OCWineFest

Saturday – March 10, 2018, 1-5pm
Sunday – March 11, 2018, 1-5pm

A STONES THROW WINERY
29943 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano

The OCWineFest brings wines and brews from around the world to your doorstep in a fun, relaxed environment. (Yes, we’re the WineFest. But turns out even wine lovers need a break to sip something else new and noteworthy too.)  The Fest also serves up boutiques to browse, artisan merchandise to buy and more!

Educational Seminars* (separate entry ticket – visit ticket site for more details):

Saturday, March 10th
2:30 – Michael Pavidis – Old World Vines: An Introduction to the Wines of Greece
3:30 – Maurice Wedell – Wedell Cellars

Sunday, March 11th
1:30 – Victor Schoenfeld, Golan Heights Winery/Yarden – “Getting High: Exploring the Terroir of the Golan Heights”
3:30 – Bill Wilson, Wilson Creek Winery: The Making of a Brand – Almond Champagne

* Speakers and schedule subject to change.

For more information, go to OCWineFest.com

Buy tickets

Rose Donuts & Café

BY DINA SCAGLIONE

Every once in a while, you find an unassuming eatery that delivers an unexpected dining experience. That’s precisely what happened when I visited Rose Donuts & Café in San Clemente. When you come to Rose’s, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vast menu of culinary delights, from hearty breakfast burritos to deli sandwiches to freshly made to order salads and delicious grilled burgers.

Don’t let the name fool you. Yes, there are donuts. In fact, more than 5,000 are served up fresh each year on National Donut Day. But we’re not talking about your typical everyday cake donuts, glazed bars and jam-filled treats. Rose’s also serves gourmet donuts, designed to celebrate every holiday of the year. For those seeking something a bit naughty, you must try the bacon and maple glazed donut. It’s both sweet and savory and worth every indulgent bite. Bagel lovers are not overlooked at Rose’s; there are a variety of flavors to enjoy with a schmear of cream cheese or decked out with smoked salmon and jalapeño.

Looking for a healthy way to start your day? I highly recommend Rose’s Breakfast Burrito. A tasty combination of egg whites, avocado, Swiss cheese and red skinned potatoes wrapped in a large flour tortilla with a side of fresh salsa. The deliciously grilled chicken wrap is generously sized, loaded with flavorful grilled chicken, lettuce, spinach, sprouts, chopped tomatoes, red onions and chunks of avocado. The marinated steak sandwich is loaded with tender, seasoned grilled sirloin, bell peppers, and onions served on a grilled roll with lettuce, tomatoes and Swiss cheese. For a twist on an American classic, try Rose’s yummy Donut Burger.

Owner Susan Lim has been working in the family business since she was a young teen and is now ushering in the next generation with her 4 daughters lending a hand. Their warmth and hospitality are just the icing on the cake (or donut in this case) to round out your palette pleasing dining experience.

Rose’s also serves gourmet coffee and teas, smoothies and even a Vietnamese iced coffee, with just the right amount of sweet and creamy. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Rose’s offers a jam-packed menu that would take months to eat through. Challenge accepted.

Rose Donuts & Café
624 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente
949.493.9200 | RoseCafeSanClemente.com