Trending

Food & Drink

Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival

Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival

Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival

Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge

Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music FestivalOn 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 Craft Beer, Taco & Music FestivalSabroso’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

Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

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

19 Sports Bar & Grill

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

Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta

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

Barnoa Wine Company

Barnoa Wine Company

by Amy Fox

Barnoa Wine CompanyIn 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

nka mama's

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

Fresh Brothers Pizza

Fresh Brothers Pizza

Fresh Brothers Pizza

Pizza | Wings | Salads

by Claire Cote

Since 2008, Fresh Brothers has provided Southern California with delicious food and family-style charm. Lucky for Orange County, this LA-based pizza joint has opened a new location in Laguna Niguel, at the corner of La Paz and Aliso Creek Road near Whole Foods. This latest addition to the Fresh Brothers family — the 15th in California — is now delivering its fresh take on dining out to those of us in south Orange County.

Fresh Brothers is a family business that’s deeply involved in the communities it serves. The soft opening of its Laguna Niguel location doubled as a fundraiser for area schools. Giving back is an important part of the company’s philosophy and it welcomes opportunities to partner with local schools and organizations to further charitable causes.

Guided through the menu by Scott Goldberg, one of the eponymous brothers, I sampled some of the most popular appetizers, including the butter-bursting and garlicky Fresh Knots and tangy baked Buffalo Wings. As my taste buds rejoiced, I moved on to the meatball sliders, served on Hawaiian sweet bread and topped with pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese…so sinful, but worth every calorie.

Fresh Brothers diners can select from one of eight pre-built pizzas or may opt to build their own skinny, thin, deep dish or new MegaGrain crust pie, from an assortment of toppings. I enjoyed Da Works deep dish pizza that offered a perfectly chewy, Chicago-style crust. The lighter Fresh Momma’s Favorite spinach and mushroom thin crust is created with a blend of pizza and pesto sauces and was packed with fresh flavor. For only $8.99, you can personalize a tossed or chopped salad with your choice of veggies, cheese, and goodies like egg, egg whites, sesame seeds and fried onions. Try the cinnamon Sweet Knots drizzled with icing and served warm for a decadent finale to a delicious meal. With beer on tap and wine by the glass, there’s just about something for to enjoy.

Those with special dietary preferences or needs will also feel right at home at Fresh Brothers with an array of gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free options. Gluten-free crusts, cheese, and wings, as well as Vegan Tenders and vegan versions of the Wisconsin cheese and Italian sausage make ordering easy, without compromising taste. The Fresh Kids Special Sauce adds a mix of finely ground veggies to the secret signature sauce for a healthier alternative. Fresh Brothers promises that your kids won’t be able to tell the difference and that adults will dig it, too!

Dine-in, take-out or have Fresh Brothers deliver today!

Fresh Brothers Pizza
24002 Aliso Creek Road, Ste. #16, Laguna Niguel
657.999.0800   |  NiguelFreshBrothers.com

Raya

Raya

Raya

by Claire Cote

RayaA sunset dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is quite a treat, especially at a spot like Raya that offers delectable bites, sweeping ocean views of the Pacific and impeccable service. Chef Richard Sandoval’s creations showcase Pan-Latin Coastal Cuisine utilizing sustainable seafood, local produce, natural and organic meat and his signature Latin flavors. With its elegant decor and welcoming staff, diners will find Raya an ideal setting for a special occasion, yet casual enough for any day of the week.

I dove into Raya’s menu with a light and refreshing cucumber-lime Margarita that I selected from a handful of delicious-sounding craft cocktails. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, full bar and select beers, so you’ll find a wide array of drink options from which to pair your meal.

As we began to sample the tapas, our server explained that Raya’s rotating seasonal menu takes advantage of local seafood and fresh California produce to incorporate the best ingredients possible. Soups and seafood offerings change regularly, depending on ingredient quality and availability. Our first small plate was the Brazilian Cheese Bread with avocado-chili butter that delivered impossibly airy, savory puffs of gluten-free dough and delectable cheese. The flavorful mini Lobster Tacos, prepared with black bean purée and chile de árbol salsa, were also a hit at the table. Assistant Chef Chris Hart then served us a perfectly balanced Thai Salad. Mint and basil tossed in tangy citrus dressing and topped with rich duck confit was a delightful way to perk up our palates.

We then savored some of Raya’s most popular large plate items that continued to elevate our experience. The Achiote Salmon with a drizzle of achiote ponzu and chayote slaw and the buttery, wild-caught New Hampshire Pan Seared Scallops with char siu pork belly were simply off the chart. Following the surf with a bit of turf, the All Natural Prime New York steak with Dungeness crab potato purée, chipotle hollandaise, and truffle chimichurri was an exceptionally tender and rich creation that we gleefully devoured to the last bite.

Dessert was a dream. The sinful molten chocolate brownie filled with caramel sauce and a side of marshmallow ice cream was an incredibly gooey and indulgent way to cap off a perfect meal. And just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we shared a dramatic sunset over the horizon accentuated by dolphins jumping through the surf. Life truly is good!


RAYA | The Ritz-Carlton | Laguna Niguel
1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point
949.240.2000 | RitzCarlton.com

Bay Leaf Mediterranean Cuisine

BayLeaf_Hero

Bay Leaf Mediterranean Cuisine

Small Plate, Big Flavor

by Claire Cote

I had the most decadent meal last night. I gorged on seared ahi, stuffed grape leaves, cheesy artichoke dip, and I regret nothing. This was my first visit to Bay Leaf Mediterranean Cuisine, previously Zona’s Italian Restaurant, nestled in the far corner of the Krikorian Plaza in North San Clemente.

Owner/Operator Vince Bevany and Chef Nick Vahdati have created an eclectic menu, boasting influences from Spain, Greece, Morocco and more, with something for every palate to enjoy. Carnivores will love the lamb op-tions and Hungarian goulash, while vegetarians can choose from a variety of dishes including chickpea salad, tabouli and hummus.

Dinner began with the eggplant medallions. These breaded eggplant rounds topped with tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion and olive oil were light, tart and a perfect appetizer for two. Next came the perfectly seared ahi, crusted in sesame seeds on a bed of sliced beets. With a side of pickled ginger and ponzu for dipping, it was satisfying and absolutely delish.

Stuffed grape leaves dripping with olive oil and cheesy cilantro-artichoke dip came next. Warm pita slices and creamy tzatziki made each earthy mouthful a sumptuous delight. We finished with the curried lamb. Served with simple mashed potatoes and emitting hints of almond and vanilla, this distinctive meat, topped with creamy curry sauce, was a rich showcase of Mediterranean flavor.

Bay Leaf Mediterranean Cuisine is a welcome addition to the San Clemente food scene. Check out the weekly specials: Tapas Tuesday (tapas at happy hour prices all day) and Thirsty Thursday (happy hour prices on beer all day) for the perfect dinner-and-a-movie date night. With its diverse menu, extensive wine and drink list, and delicious fare, you’ll find any excuse to come back.


Bay Leaf Mediterranean Cuisine

Located at 647 Camino De Los Mares |  San Clemente

949.488.0120 |  BayLeafMediterraneanCuisine.com

Chronic Tacos

Chronic Tacos Mexican Grill

Chronic Tacos

Mexican Grill

by Claire Cote

I’m always on the prowl for the perfect taco. Meat or fish marinated to tender perfection, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, fresh avocado, all wrapped inside a fragile tortilla. It’s somehow the perfect food. It’s quick and simple and always a good idea. Lucky for me, Chronic Tacos serves up a mean version. And the best part is… it’s DIY. Another best part? They don’t just have tacos.

A stone’s throw from Doheny State Beach and minutes from the Dana Point Harbor, this taco shop offers authentic-style Mexican food presented as a skeleton menu of tacos, burritos, salads and bowls. It’s the choose-your-own-adventure of food. Want a salad topped with grilled chicken, fresh lettuce and tomato? Go for it. Have a hankering for a burrito bursting with beans, rice and cheese? You got it.

Chronic Tacos Mexican GrillOn a recent visit I sampled Chronic Taco’s new meatless option, Carne Vegano, which is completely natural plant proteins seasoned and sautéed. Versatile enough to fill a burrito or top a salad, it’s light and tasty — the perfect option for a meatless diner and delicious enough for even meat-lovers. I also enjoyed the mahi-mahi taco, prepared with creamy Baja sauce, spicy pico de gallo and fresh cabbage. It’s a marvelous mouthful.

One of 25 locations in Southern California, the Dana Point joint also boasts a large patio (pet-friendly!) over-looking PCH, as well as a selection of beer on tap, from Lagunitas IPA to Bud Light. The restaurant’s produce is prepared fresh daily and the mahi-mahi is beer-battered or sautéed to order. With breakfast and lunch served all day, it’s an ideal stop before heading down for a day on the water.

Chronic Tacos dishes out weekday specials that are hard to beat. Monday Madness features a burrito, chips and a drink for a mere $7.99. Taco Tuesday delivers $1.99 tacos and Wednesday Unwrapped offers customers a choice of salad or tostada bowl and a drink for $7.99. They also serve hand-burritos, for smaller appetites, nacho french fries (exactly what it sounds like!) and flaky churro bites for dessert. Chronic Tacos is quick, delicious, and easy on the wallet. Fellow taco hunters, look no further.