Inka Mama’s

AUTHENTIC PERUVIAN CUISINE

BY DINA SCAGLIONE

If bold and exotic flavors are something you crave, look no further than Inka Mama’s in San Clemente. Beyond your typical Orange County fare, the restaurant’s abundant menu features influences from Asia and Spain with one-of-a-kind exotic dishes. Explore new and exciting finds without having to pack a bag and catch a flight.

Founded in 2001 by sisters Angela Kisijara and Martha White, Inka Mama’s has become a local favorite. It’s an ideal dining destination for those seeking a bit of a culinary adventure and a taste for authentic Peruvian dishes flavored with aromatic cilantro, citrus-y lime and spicy peppers. Inka Mama’s diverse menu and warm atmosphere instantly transports you to South America without ever crossing the border.

Once inside, you’ll be struck by the unobtrusive charm of the restaurant’s Latin-Asian fusion ambiance. I looked forward to the arrival of a small jar, filled with my favorite bright green sauce called Aji — the traditional Peruvian staple made with pureed serrano peppers, romaine lettuce and cilantro. It’s a delicious drizzle over your main entrée or as a to-die-for dip with soft bread.

For starters, try Inka Mama’s ceviche, made with fresh sea bass, marinated in a spicy chile-lime juice with sliced onions and chopped cilantro. Another flavorful and unique appetizer is the Papa a la Huancaina, a large egg-size fried yucca filled with spicy yellow chile ricotta cheese sauce. Looking for something to beat the winter chill? Then, you must try the comforting Aquadito de Pollo chicken soup, made with cilantro, rice, vegetables and potatoes. It will warm you from your nose to your toes.

Inka Mama’s is known for its Saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry made with sautéed vegetables, potatoes, onions, peppers, spices and served with rice. Whether you prefer vegetarian, chicken, seasoned top sirloin or rib-eye steak, the savory spices and harmonious flavors will make your taste buds sing.

Inka Mama’s has 3 other locations in Foothill Ranch, Aliso Viejo and Santa Ana. Stop by for daily Happy Hour, Monday through Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. and all day on Sundays. On Mondays, kids eat free with the purchase of a regular priced entrée and adults will enjoy half-price bottles of select wine. Wednesday Nights serve up $5 draft beers all night.

INKA MAMA’S
Talega Village Center • 821 Via Suerte #104, San Clemente
949.369.6262 • InkaMamas.com

180blu

a view to DINE for

by Dina Scaglione

Poised on a cliff 150 feet above Salt Creek Beach is one of Orange County’s most stunning views and the picturesque home of 180blu. Aptly named for its unobstructed views of the Pacific, the restaurant’s sprawling, open-air balcony seduces guests the moment they enter and the comfortable ambiance and delectable fare keeps them coming back for more.

Located in The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, 180blu delivers the same five-star service the hotel is known for, in a more relaxed setting than you might expect. With inviting high-top tables and swallow-you-up sofas, it’s the perfect destination for lunch, dinner or drinks, but often a difficult one to leave.

Come for the sushi, small plates and a glass of wine, but your taste buds will beg you to stay and enjoy a plethora of unique and tasty entrées. Comfort foods like grilled cheese on rustic bread offer a sophisticated version of the American classic that was always a childhood favorite.

Even non-sushi fans will fall in love with the namesake 180 Sushi Roll, featuring avocado, cream cheese and cucumber topped with charred salmon. I was personally smitten with the lobster tacos, complete with large chunks of tender lobster, avocado, and black bean salsa, served on small flour tortillas with a delightful de arbol sauce. And don’t miss the bite-size-but-big-in-flavor spicy tuna rolls, on a cylinder of toasted rice and topped with a tangy eel sauce.

Another scrumptious dish worth writing home about is the delicious pan-seared shrimp. Glazed with a blend of Piloncillo, an unrefined Mexican sugar, and a spicy peanut sauce topped with cilantro and candied pepitas. You’ll be amazed by the slightly sweet, slightly spicy, but immensely flavorful taste. If you’re looking for a light dinner with a decadent side, try the warmed spinach salad with loads of sautéed lobster and wisps of crispy sweet potatoes. I capped off the evening with 180blu’s famous churros, served alongside coffee ice cream on a crumbled cookie bed, anchored by a golden trail of caramel. Light and cinnamon-y, it’s the ultimate way to end any meal.

Talented 180blu mixologists serve up hand-crafted cocktails and signature drinks, along with an extensive wine list and a variety of beers. Live music is featured Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m., weather permitting. The sushi bar is also offered Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m. And if you feel chilly, the friendly staff offers cozy blankets to keep you warm and toasty.

180blu  |  One Ritz-Carlton Drive  |  Dana Point  |  RitzCarlton.com

Coastal Kitchen

by Dina Scaglione

Enjoy the weekend every day of the week at Coastal Kitchen. Open just over a year now, its warm and welcoming vibe, floor to ceiling windows and hip ocean elegance, draws you in from the moment you enter. Well-located at the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Blue Lantern in Dana Point’s burgeoning Lantern District, this eatery’s deliciously diverse, made-from-scratch fare and coastal chic atmosphere delivers a California casual dining experience with a sleek nautical twist. Savor the full-service menu in the open dining room or sip a handcrafted cocktail, a glass of well-chosen wine or draft beer as you sit back in Adirondack chairs in front of crystal fire-pit tables on the relaxing patio.

Give your taste buds a real treat and start with the spicy, sweet-glazed Pork Belly Bites or the palate-perking Spicy Hummus and chips. For a main entrée, I highly recommend the Grilled Trout. Make no mistake; this is far from the oily, strong-tasting variety you may remember growing up. Coastal Kitchen’s is wonderfully flakey and light, tarragon-herb crusted and topped with lightly salted Marcona almonds. Die-hard crab cake fans, look no further. The Jumbo Lump Crab cakes are far beyond what you typically find at most California restaurants. Paired beautifully with a tangy, crunchy coleslaw, these hamburger size cakes are generously stuffed with so much succulent crab you will think you’ve been transported to a New England seafood joint.

Be sure to leave room for dessert. The custard-textured Crème Brule serves up a decadent ending to your meal. For those who fancy a good old-fashioned sundae — dive into this one any day of the week, complete with crunchy caramelized pecans, warmed Ghirardelli chocolate sauce and topped with a signature marshmallow whipped topping.

Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the summer with Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The adventuresome “SIPS Happy Hour” menu includes specialty cocktails, IPA’s from nearby San Diego breweries and California select wines. 

Next time you head into the harbor for a boat gazing stroll, be sure to stop by!

34091 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point
949.449.2822  •  CoastalKitchenDanaPoint.com

AVEO Table + Bar

by Dina Scaglione

Looking for a unique culinary adventure that reflects our South Orange County coastal lifestyle? Then AVEO Table + Bar at Monarch Beach Resort is the seaside experience you won’t want to miss. With a sultry, Mediterranean-inspired vibe and sparkling ocean views, AVEO feels more like an unexpected getaway than a destination for drinks and dining.

AVEO boasts sweeping ocean views from every table, whether you’re enjoying them from inside the main dining area or on the stunning outdoor terrace. The resort’s golf course, manicured gardens and ocean meets the sky backdrop are as delightful as the Sunday brunch I recently enjoyed there.

As much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach, AVEO’s impressive brunch showcases a beautiful presentation of foods from around the globe, from freshly made sushi to a ‘Little Italy’ create-your-own pasta bar to a meat carving station. For those with heartier appetites, a sampling from AVEO’s dinner fare is also represented, such as the Moroccan spiced lamb chops, melt-in-your mouth Pacific Dover Sole, Seafood Paella and a flavorful Cream of Asparagus soup.

The expansive spread also includes an assortment of more traditional breakfast items like a vegan spin on Eggs Benedict with tomato and spinach, Eggs Florentine, fluffy Belgium waffles, and an array of ingredients from which you can create your own omelet. And let me tell you about the Chorizo hash browns…well, let’s just say you won’t need any ketchup. To whet your whistle, AVEO serves up delicious Champagne Mimosas, spicy Bloody Marys and a freshly squeezed juice bar.

Last, but certainly not least, is the rainbow-colored dessert station, guaranteed to bring out the inner child in even the most disciplined diner. Pecan bars, mango pistachio parfaits, lemon meringue bites, maple bread pudding, and vanilla mouse pops are just a few of the hard-to-resist treats. Along with an overflowing chocolate fondue fountain, AVEO has just the dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth…and then some.

AVEO is more than just a fine dining destination; it is an epicurean experience. Whether you’re there for breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks or the sensational Sunday brunch, the friendly and attentive staff and breathtaking views will most certainly greet you. Visit MonarchBeachResort.com for reservations and more.

Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival

Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge

On Saturday, April 8, KLOS presents the 4th Annual Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. Besides headlining the event with his band The Offspring, lead singer Dexter Holland has created a line of Gringo Bandito hot  sauces which will kick up the heat during an amazing taco eating competition sponsored by Chronic Tacos. The highly acclaimed professional taco eating contest will bring in 10 professional eaters from around the world, including world-champion eater Takeru Kobayashi from Japan. The professionals will be vying for cash prizes and the distinguished title as champion of the 7th Annual Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge. Kobayashi holds eight Guinness Records for competitive eating and will be defending his record from 2015, when he succeeded in devouring 144 tacos in 10 minutes. If you’d like to test your own taco eating skills, an amateur competition will be open to 8 lucky contestants at the festival.

In addition to Chronic Taco’s eating contest, attendees will enjoy unlimited craft beer sampling, gourmet tacos, spirited games and engaging attractions, including the crowd-favorite lucha libre Mexican wrestling matches. 

Sabroso’s musical lineup is impressive with Orange County-based, multi-platinum rock band The Offspring, along with Sum 41, Rival Sons, Lit, Unwritten Law, and the world’s first and only heavy metal mariachi band, Metalachi, as well as roving performances by local mariachi bands.

Festival General Admission Tickets start at $60, and VIP Lounge + Early Entry Tickets are $99. Day-of Festival General Admission Tickets (if available) will be $75 each.

For the most up-to-date information on the Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival, please visit sabrosotacofest.com.

Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

by Dina Scaglione

With south OC located so close to the border, Mexican restaurants aren’t exactly in short supply in these parts. Already have your favorite go-to Mexican place? Well, it’s time to break out of your routine, because few come close to the homemade taste, quality food, and affordable prices found at Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina.

Well-situated on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point’s Lantern District, Carlos’s is a comfortable, casual eatery that will cure your hankering for authentic Mexican fare. As soon as you enter through the expansive outdoor patio, you’re immediately greeted by a welcoming fire pit and a salivating blend of sweet onions, roasted peppers and chili spices.

The restaurant’s vast menu overflows with both contemporary combo plates as well as more traditional dishes like Menudo and Pozole. Be forewarned; once you start in on the chips with addictive house-made salsa and creamy guacamole, you won’t be able to stop! Seafood fans will definitely want to dive into the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo featuring delicate shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce — served with rice and beans. The savory chunks of chili-spiced lean pork in Carlos’s Chile Verde Enchiladas will literally melt-in-your-mouth. The Nopailitos con Carne de Puerco combines slow-roasted bites of pork with tender seasoned cactus, a taste sensation that must be experienced to be truly appreciated. The shredded beef flautas are also a popular favorite — tender, flaky and seasoned to perfection.

Carlos first opened this spot as a small coffee shop back in the early 70’s when Dana Point was a burgeoning area, as a way to offer respite for busy contractors and harbor residents. A hearty Mexican style breakfast was soon added, including a deliciously filling Huevos Rancheros. It wasn’t long before Carlos expanded operations with a complete breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, as it remains to this very day.

Enjoy Carlos’s 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and for Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Mid-week specials include Taco Tuesdays, offering tacos from a mere $1.25 each; and Lobster Wednesdays from 4 to 9 p.m., for grilled and garlic butter-basted lobsters. On Sundays, a local guitarist creates mood-lifting background music to help ease you into the looming work week ahead.

Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
34224 Pacific Coast Hwy  |  Dana Point  |  (949) 496-4470
CarlosCantinaDP.com

19 Sports Bar & Grill

by Dina Scaglione

Football and fried wings are ubiquitous in south OC sports this time of year, where folks gather to cheer on their favorite uniformed team and craft beer is consumed like water. Then there’s 19 Sports Bar & Grill at the San Juan Hills Golf Club, reminding us why we are drawn to the infectious energy, experienced only at a local pub.

19 Sports Bar & Grill is a lively, upscale tavern, where spent golfers and spirited sport fans come to find camaraderie and delicious fare, after a long day, either at the office or on the course. A local hidden gem, recently updated with river-rock textured walls and glass framed jerseys, 19 Sports Bar & Grill serves up spectacular views of lush green fairways and savory comfort foods, a varied selection of craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails daily. Happy Hour specials are also offered from 5 to 7:30 p.m., 7 days a week. Whether you saddle up to the bar or perch yourself at a high-top table, every seat offers an unobstructed view of your favorite sport.

Tired of the same old greasy bar food offered at many watering holes? Then you will delight noshing on the hearty cuisine from the expansive menu, including some unique twists on our old favorites. Yes, they still have your kidult faves like stone fired pizzas, loaded nachos and chicken wings. But wait until you experience the homemade meatloaf sliders — classic chili topped with cheese and onions (talk about comfort food) and mouth-watering, build-your-own burgers.

Still watching the NFL Sports package in your living room (boooring)? Why not enjoy it on 25 flat-screens along with your favorite pint, offered all day on Sundays. And for those who favor a little toe tapping with their libations, live entertainment is also featured Friday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m.

Whether it’s a night out with friends or dinner with the family, there’s a little something for everyone at 19 Sports Bar & Grill, including great tasting food, drinks for every thirst and inspiring views, all served up in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

19 Sports Bar & Grill is located at 32120 San Juan Creek Road in San Juan Capistrano. Visit www.19SportsBar.com for more info.

Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta

by Dina Scaglione

At a time when restaurants seemingly pop up one day and shut down the next, Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta, or more affectionately known as simply Sonny’s, has been serving up thin-crust pizzas and flavorful pasta dishes to devoted locals and curious tourists for more than 36 years. You can hardly mention the restaurant’s name without heads nodding in approval.

Since 1980, owner Sonny Genovese has prepared his family’s recipes from scratch each day, perfectly balanced with aromatic seasonings and flavorful spices. The restaurant’s unpretentious vibe and relaxed atmosphere welcomes families, friends and couples alike. Just bring a hearty appetite and let them handle the rest.

Though San Clemente is largely known for its cool, coastal climate, Spanish feel and chill vibe, the city and its surrounding areas have no shortage of Italian food aficionados who’ve made Sonny’s their go-to spot for a delicious bowl of savory Baked Rigatoni or the new Badda Bing pizza with spicy Calabrese salami, fresh mozzarella and fresh basil. Another favorite is the Rigatoni Pomodoro with ricotta cheese and spinach. Steeped in a classic pink sauce – a combination of Sonny’s signature red and Alfredo sauces, and topped with sliced sausage, this blissful marriage of melt-in-your mouth flavors and textures is a testament to the restaurant’s mass appeal. With a dizzying array of generously portioned entrées, from fresh seafood to meatless dishes, Sonny’s offers something to suit every palette.

As far as appetizers go, nothing beats the Spicy Calamari. Unlike most other renditions, Sonny’s tender calamari steak (not the typical chewy, rubber band-like rings) is cut into strips and sautéed in a spicy, garlic tomato sauce. Magnifico! The Tomato Basil Bruschetta also tops the list, served with crunchy garlic toast and sweet tomatoes, seasoned with basil, capers and chunks of Pecorino Romano.

With gondola muralled walls and the scent of roasted garlic hanging in the air, Sonny’s inviting atmosphere draws you inside and keeps you coming back for more. The spacious outside patio adorned with red and white-checkered tablecloths accommodates those who prefer to dine al fresco. Although Sonny’s can be quite popular on weekends, don’t let the appendage of outside gatherers dissuade you. Sonny’s is one of those can’t-miss local gems, and like so many good things in life, is well worth the wait!

Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta
429 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente
949.498.2540 • Sonnys.com

Barnoa Wine Company

by Amy Fox

In a tucked away corner of San Clemente’s Talega Village Center, an unexpected gem awaits. With a Cheers-like atmosphere that makes locals and even first-timers feel at home, Barnoa Wine Company serves up a quiet spot for relaxing with friends, enjoying delicious small bites and sipping beautiful glasses of wine.

New owner Mike Trebing has expanded Barnoa’s offerings with the addition of a full-time chef, increased menu options, and a well-curated wine shop featuring wines from all over the world with a California-focused selection.

I recently discovered my new favorite wine at Barnoa when I was offered a glass of Obsession. As its name implies, just one sip and you’re hooked on its sweet and refreshing notes. Obsession is one of the newest white wines to make Barnoa’s line-up of 12 whites and 15 reds.

Barnoa’s bites are unique and tasty, bar none. The Nutty Goat offered a mild blend of goat and cream cheese that is sweet (due to its chipotle brown sugar drizzle) and nutty. I dare you to stop at a single bite! The satisfying Pulled Pork Sliders delivered just the right kick and the Deviled Eggs, topped with crumbles of crispy bacon, jalapeños and chives, made a perfect low-carb, protein snack.

To-die-for desserts include Black Russian Chocolate Cake and Vinnie’s famous Lemon Goat Cheese and Blueberry Compote. The off-menu chocolate lava cake was a delicious and decadent way to cap off my experience. The rich, warm brownie covered in whipped cream and berries was irresistible.

Barnoa Wine Company offers a daily Happy Hour from 4 to 6 p.m., Tuesday wine flights, Wednesday Wine-Down (a local favorite for Girls Night Out), and Thursday Wine Tastings (with occasional beer tastings, too). Live music takes place on Friday and Saturday nights.

Check out Barnoa’s Sip & Shop event on December 6, from 4 to 9 p.m., for a fun way to tackle that holiday gift list while having a glass, or two! If you’re looking for a place to party on New Year’s Eve, celebrate at Barnoa with Irish band, Key of Whiskey. Make your reservations today!

Inka Mama’s

by Claire Cote

Although I haven’t had the pleasure of traveling to Peru, I feel like a connoisseur of its cuisine after my inaugural visit to Inka Mama’s. Located in San Clemente’s Talega Village Center, this cozy establishment will have you feeling like a South American tourist who stumbled upon a local, hidden gem from the moment you step foot through the front door.

Breaking away from the ubiquitous, yet hackneyed “New American” cuisine, this Peruvian eatery brings traditional recipes, fresh ingredients and zippy cocktails to the forefront, without sacrificing affordability or style.

My dinner companion and I sampled our way through the happy hour menu with gusto. I fell hard for the Causas, a layered stack of potato cakes and chicken salad, while my friend was over the moon for the Shrimp Empanadas — impeccably prepared pillows of buttery crust and saucy shrimp. We were both in love with the seductive, green aji sauce, a Peruvian staple which is used for dipping, slathering or as an additive to just about any dish on the menu. This punchy salsa was perfect for spreading on rolls, dipping a Yuka (sweet potato) fry or drizzling over your entire plate. A veritable wimp in the face of anything remotely spicy, even I didn’t mind my burning lips after my 10th helping. 

The Croqueta Sliders were impossible to resist. These top sirloin patties served on sweet bread and adorned with a tomato slice, chili mayo and a side of sweet potato fries, were tasty and well prepared. The Chicharon de Pollo is not your mama’s fried chicken! Marinated in garlic and spices and then deep fried, this tender meat packs a crispy texture and exciting flavor.

Inka Mama’s offers happy hour Monday through Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. and all day Sunday. Enjoy house wines and Sangria for $6 a glass and discounts on select appetizers. The bar is stocked with local beer on tap, the food is adventurous without being intimidating, and the mood is on point when the sun goes down and the bistro lights come on. With additional locations in Aliso Viejo, Foothill Ranch, and Santa Ana, there’s always tasty Peruvian fare right around the corner. ¡Salud!

821 Via Suerte, #104, San Clemente
949.369.6262  •  InkaMamas.com