Food & Drink

Choya Japanese Cuisine
By Bonnie Small

So you think you know sushi? Choya Japanese Cuisine has launched in Dana Point’s Ocean Ranch and its goal is to heighten American-style sushi to its pinnacle in addition to introducing authentic Japanese-style sushi to an eager South OC audience. Chef S.B. See personally selects the fish each day and offers only the finest that the waters of Boston, Hawaii and Japan can offer – no lesser varieties are ever substituted.

After noshing on an order of piping hot Garlic Edamame, we dove into an amazing selection of fresh Kumamoto oysters, sweet shrimp, tuna, and yellowtail sushi, each of which were textural perfection. We then tasted the Mexican Roll which exceeded every expectation – each component was perfectly executed, beautifully presented and unbelievably delicious.

Traditional Japanese sushi has little to do with the multitudinous variations of the California Roll that are synonymous with American sushi. Chef See is introducing South OC to Donburi, which literally translates to “bowl.” We opted for the Chirashi Don, a bowl of über-fresh salmon, tuna, octopus, eel & scallop sashimi beautifully arranged atop a bed of sushi rice and garnished with a quail egg. In a word, it was transformative.

I could not resist trying the red snapper sashimi, which was flown in from Japan that morning, sliced Carpaccio-thin, and dressed with a lightly vinegary sauce – it just melted in my mouth. The landlubbers in our party were thrilled at Choya’s non-fish options which are prepared with equal attention to detail – a favorite at our table was the free-range chicken breast with balsamic teriyaki sauce.

Looking for a little something sweet to finish off the meal, we were delighted with our richly colored and velvety smooth green tea ice cream and rumor has it that red bean ice cream is arriving soon!

32545 Golden Lantern • Dana Point

949.488.0933 • ChoyaJapaneseCuisine.com

LJ’s Bistro
By Bonnie Small

Don’t you love it when you discover a hidden gem? I felt that way recently when I stumbled upon LJ’s Bistro in a shopping center I visit on my weekly rounds. From the outside it’s unassuming, but the edgy urban décor, enormous U-shaped bar and the tasty menu offerings are definitely memorable.

The bar is the focal point as you enter LJ’s. The metropolitan decor featuring charcoal with orange-upholstered barstools beckon you to take a seat and unwind with your favorite libation. After that, it was the concise menu that grabbed my attention. I’m the worst when it comes to making decisions, so I’ve never been a fan of menus with chapters, and though I still struggled to narrow down my choice, it was because everything sounded so good, not because I couldn’t remember what was on page 5.

Our server tantalized us with a delicious daily special of chicken meatballs delicately bathed in a tangy sauce accompanied by a light risotto with kale and sundried tomatoes. We weren’t disappointed and I really loved the delicate veggies that garnished the plate, especially the ultra-thin waffle cut zucchini.

We also tried LJ’s specialty – a pulled pork sandwich served on a warm, airy, ciabatta roll with perfectly prepared coleslaw. The chef’s citrus reduction BBQ sauce made the silky pork sing and we gobbled up every morsel. Also, don’t miss the curry fries! Thinly sliced, double fried, lightly sprinkled with a mixture of curry powder and dill and served with a delicious aioli dipping sauce, they made the experience complete.

LJ’s Bistro is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday – with lunch served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 10 p.m. Drop by for the daily the daily happy hour from 4 to 6:30 p.m. featuring a $5 specialty martini, $4 well drinks and affordable food selections. LJ’s keeps the fun going with bottomless sparking wine for a mere $7 every day from 4 to 10 p.m.

29971 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel
(949) 495-1453 • www.LJsBistro.com

NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
By Cathy Villafana

Since its debut last November, NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria has managed to create a lasting impression by utilizing only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. Located on Pacific Coast Highway in South Laguna Beach, this authentic Italian eatery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas, made from scratch, small plates and wide array of craft beers will certainly please your palate and whet your whistle.

At the heart of NEApolitan’s operation is the imported red-tiled oven created by third-generation designer, Stefano Ferraro. With its classic dome shape, the wood-burning oven heats up to a scorching 900 degrees, producing authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas that rival the best of Naples.

Thin in the center and thick at the crust – and best eaten with a fork and a knife – diners will enjoy the chewy and crispy textures unique to this pizza style. NEApolitan’s use of imported flour, master artisan-created cheeses, olive oil from Napa Valley and produce from local organic farms elevates its fresh and simple dishes to the next level.

Purists may opt for the Margherita Pizza, while others seeking something out of the ordinary might venture toward the Funghi (mushroom) topped with an egg or the New Haven with Little Neck clams.

NEApolitan isn’t just about the pizza. Other selections hailing from the wood-fired oven include the Veal Meatballs Al Forno and the Sicilian Jidori Wings that are generously coated with butter, breadcrumbs, Calabrian chile, rosemary and cheese. No sauce needed.

Organic lovers will swarm over the salads embedded with locally-grown greens, vegetables and herbs. Not-to-miss favorites are the flavor-packed Roasted Beet Salad and the Kale Salad.

Open seven days a week from noon to 10 p.m., NEApolitan has an extensive wine list plus an eclectic mix of craft beers chosen to enhance your experience. Monday through Friday, customers can enjoy a Margherita pizza and salad for a mere $10 from noon to 2 p.m., or eat for half price from 4 to 6 p.m. Dine in and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating or grab take out for a quiet night at home.

NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
949.499.4531
31542 S. Coast Highway,
Laguna Beach, California 92651
nealaguna.com

Bésame Mexican Grill
By Cathy Villafana

Bésame, which means “kiss me” in Spanish, is a fitting name for Gary Hutton’s restaurant. With roots steeped in traditional Mexican cuisine, Bésame Mexican Grill has produced a sophisticated menu reflecting its love and respect for the old and the new. Located in Dana Point’s Monarch Bay Plaza where PCH and Crown Valley meet, Bésame is nearing its one-year anniversary and has developed a loyal local following along the way.

The Guacamole, the Queso Fundido, or the Fish Ceviche, served with large chunks of fresh fish, mango, cucumber, chile and onion, is a great way to start your Bésame experience. The Chicken Tortilla Soup, a top pick among customers, is reminiscent of enchiladas with large pieces of shredded chicken, diced avocado, and strips of crispy tortillas – married in a rich, enchilada sauce-like soup.

Bésame features an array of main dish options, including barbacoa (shredded barbecue short ribs), carne asada, carnitas, chicken, and seafood, as well as a number of vegetarian options. If inclined, customers may build their own burrito, pick and choose their filling for tacos or a torta, or create a combination plate.

Diners may prefer the menu’s Classic Entrées, like the Carnitas Tamales, or the three types of enchiladas. House Specialties include the caramelized Carnitas – slightly crispy on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside. The sautéed Garlic Shrimp, served in a garlic white wine sauce, is cooked to perfection. The Chile Relleno, a vegetarian favorite, is filled with diced vegetables and served with Bésame’s own yellow mole sauce.

Bésame also has a passion for tequila. Serving over fifty varieties in the Silver, Reposado and Añejo categories, tequila aficionados have plenty to choose from, whether they’re enjoying it straight, on the rocks or in their favorite margarita.

Bésame is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. DailyHappy Hour runs from 3 to 6 p.m., and Taco Tuesday drink and taco specials are offered all day long.
Visit BesameMexicanGrill.com for more information.

Humphry’s Sandwich Shop
By Cathy Villafana

Don’t be fooled by its name. Humphry’s Sandwich Shop offers much more than sandwiches. This local favorite, on Avenida Pico across the street from San Clemente High School, serves up an array of offerings to suit every mood and appetite from breakfast to dinner.

As graduates of San Clemente High School, opening the doors to their restaurant in 2010 was a full-circle experience for Tim and Nicole Humphry. Tim, an experienced certified chef, and Nicole, a fourth-generation restaurateur, are both passionate about providing delicious food and friendly service to their customers. Their thoughtful approach is evident in everything from the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere to the creativity in the menu.

You’ll have a difficult time deciding between Humphry’s breakfast items (served all day), salads, soup, wraps, custom sandwiches (build your own), specialty sandwiches, veggie sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, and desserts. Kids can select from six entrées, accompanied by fresh fruit, animal crackers, and a drink. Now, that’s what I call a “happy meal!”

Customer favorites include The Rachel, a grilled hot pastrami sandwich with 1,000 Island dressing; the stacked Club Sandwich with smoked gouda cheese; and the Famous BLT that has eight (gulp!) slices of bacon.

Humphry’s specials, which feature a different sandwich each day of the week, are also a popular choice. Wednesday’s special, the Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwich, is regularly sold out. Served on a Hawaiian bun with Asian slaw, sesame ginger dressing, crunchy chow mein noodles and a grilled pineapple, this sandwich takes barbecue in a whole new direction.

Humphry’s is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Happy Hour takes place from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, with 20 percent off all dine-in food, $3 beers, $4 premium beers, $12 pitchers and $15 premium pitchers. Humphry’s also offers a number of catering platters for your next gathering or special event.

Humphry’s Sandwich Shop
800 Avenida Pico, San Clemente
949.361.1093 • HumphrysSandwichShop.com

Bad to the Bone… it’s all good!
by Cathy Villafana

Known for its mouth-watering fare, Bad to the Bone BBQ celebrates its 8th year in business in San Juan Capistrano. Located in the Ortega Village center (where Ortega Highway and Rancho Viejo Road meet), you can practically smell your way there! With meats slowly cooking in the Hickory wood-burning pits for hours on end, the tempting aroma draws you in and the taste keeps you coming back for more.

Bad to the Bone has a surprisingly large menu for a barbecue joint. Diners can choose from appetizers, salads, soup, sandwiches, burgers, steaks, chops, seafood and over a dozen side dishes. But make no mistake, it’s the Carolina-inspired Pulled Pork, meaty Baby Back Ribs, and the tender Beef Brisket that makes Bad to the Bone so well-known in these here parts. Other barbecue meats include Tri-Tip, St. Louis Ribs, Sausage, and 1/4 Chicken. Order a plate, or better yet—a combination plate—and you’ll understand what the fuss is about.

Owners Al Meyling, a California native, and Marty Wells, an Oklahoman who practically has barbecue sauce running through his veins, have created a casual family atmosphere for enjoying Midwestern-influenced barbecue. The classic western decor, plus swift and friendly service, easily get you in the mood for a relaxing and filling meal. One exception to the rustic motif are the flat-screen TVs located throughout where you can catch the big game while feasting on your favorite grub.

Some changes in store for Bad to the Bone this year include the expansion of the patio and bar areas. The bar will soon feature 25 beers on tap, including IPA, Lager, and Belgian labels. Nothing goes better with barbeque than a cold one!

Look for Happy Hour specials Monday through Friday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Live entertainment starts at 6:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Bad to the Bone also caters events, offering a variety of menus for any occasion.

Bad to the Bone BBQ
31738 Rancho Viejo RD.
San Juan Capistrano, CA 9267 • 949.493.9307
badtothebone-bbq.com

Bull Taco
By Cathy Villafana

After much anticipation, Bull Taco has opened its doors on El Camino Real in San Clemente’s North Beach area. With three sister restaurants in Carlsbad, Cardiff by the Sea and at San Diego’s Petco Park arena, this is its first foray into Orange County. Led by founderGreg Lukasiewicz, Bull Taco is charging full-steam ahead with its unique concept of “Inauthentic Mexican.” This new location not only breaks the Mexican restaurant mold, it blows it to smithereens.

Bull Taco’s specials read like a National Geographic Magazine index—minus the endangered species, of course. During my visit, the featured specials ranged from the exotic to the more tame, including: Alligator, Elk, Wild Boar, Halibut, Ahi Poke and Ceviche. Bull Taco’s fare takes a big leap from the Mexican food you may be accustomed to. Case in point: Sriracha, a staple in Thai cooking, is a key ingredient in many of the menu items.

In addition to having traditional chicken, pork and carne asada options, try steering toward the street tacos so you can sample different items from Bull Taco’s eclectic menu. The Lobster, Bacon, Chorizo Taco currently tops the list as most popular. I highly recommend the Breakfast Burrito, which received a nod in Sunset Magazine as a reader favorite. Need some heat? Dab or douse your grub with homemade salsas that span from “Mild” to “Ghost” (no bull… it might vaporize you).

Diners—if so inclined—can pull out a TV tray and eat in the Astro Turf-lined lounge area where the little ones can run wild. One fortunate guest will score the best seat in the house—a cozy upholstered chair directly facing a flat-screen TV. More traditional table seating is also available both inside and on the patio.

Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Bull Taco offers beer and wine and serves up taco specials on Thursdays. Catering services cover everything from private events to large company parties, with convenient food pick-up/drop-off or on-site/off-site cooking. Pre-made or custom menus are available. Contact catering@bulltaco.com to learn more.

Hunter Steakhouse in Laguna Niguel
By Cathy Villafana

With 40 years’ experience under its belt, Hunter Steakhouse has earned a reputation for serving the “Best Prime Rib in Town.” With locations in Mill Valley and Oceanside, owner Mike Schneider continues the tradition here in South County with his newest restaurant on Town Center Drive in Laguna Niguel. Celebrating its one-year anniversary, Hunter Steakhouse’s notoriety will entice you to give it a try, but the food and hospitality will have you coming back for more.

If you’re seeking the true “Hunter” experience, try the award-winning Prime Rib, which is cut in-house, herb-crusted, slow-roasted and served with a unique creamed horseradish and au jus. If you’re in the mood for steak, Hunter’s got you covered—from New York Strip to Porterhouse—and everything in between.

The dinner menu has an impressive selection of entrées, including seafood, chicken, ribs and lamb. Served with soup or salad, vegetables and your choice of side, a delicious meal at a great value awaits.

For lunch, Hunter Steakhouse offers plenty of starters, from the traditional Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail and Calamari Fritti, to unique selections like Chipotle Mac & Cheese and Gouda Croquets. Guests also have a number of salads and sandwiches to choose from, as well as full entrées, including Prime Rib, Whiskey Peppercorn Top Sirloin and more.

Hunter Steakhouse is open 7 days a week. The elegant and comfortable decor, combined with private banquet rooms, is perfect for parties and meetings. Join them for Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy bottomless champagne and menu items ranging from $9 to $17. If you’re looking for someone else to prepare your holiday dinner, the restaurant is also open on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Check out Hunter Steakhouse’s daily Happy Hour from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. featuring $1 off wells, beer, and house wine and $2 off appetizers. Enjoy a 4-course meal on Mondays and Tuesdays for a mere $23. Wednesday is half-price wine night and any bottle on the list is half off with the purchase of
two entrées.

Marking the spot atop Blue Lantern Plaza on PCH in Dana Point, The Point Restaurant and Bar is destined to be a crowd-pleaser. Open for only three months at the former site of Caliente Coastal Cantina, The Point is on target to give South OC a little something for everyone.

Offering classic American cuisine at affordable prices is what co-owners Peter Andriet and Brett Cassel set their sights on when opening in July. Fresh, locally grown ingredients contribute to an unpretentious menu that spans from classic burgers, pastas, soups and salads to seafood and pizzas from the wood-fired brick oven.

I recommend starting with the Seared Ahi appetizer, served with ginger soy sauce and a cucumber and avocado salad. The BBQ Chicken Salad is another delicious option, featuring grilled chicken and crisp vegetables, tossed in a tangy BBQ ranch dressing. For heartier fare, give the Chicken Fried Chicken entrée a shot. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in country gravy. For a lighter, but just as fulfilling meal, the perfectly glazed Miso Salmon fits the bill.

The Point delivers on both tasty food and a relaxed atmosphere. Both inside and outside dining are available with plenty of vantage points for watching the big game. Want to magically transform your family dinner into date night? Then steer the youngsters toward The Point’s ingenious Kids’ Cave complete with chalk wall and community seating for 12.

Catch live entertainment at Tuesday’s “Open Mic” night or check out the Mike Dena Band performing Saturday nights from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Visit ThePointRestaurantandBar.com for a list of events.

The Point opens Monday afternoons starting at 3:00 p.m. and Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until late night, with Happy Hour from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Enjoy 20% off food all day long on “Local” Wednesdays and bring the kids in for a free meal with the purchase of an adult entrée every Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Point is a great place to watch sports and is a known hotspot for Monday Night Football!

Cinnamon Productions… A Sweet Deal
by Cathy Villafana

Don’t be fooled by the name. While Cinnamon Productions Bakery & Café makes a killer cinnamon roll, they also serve a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner. Having started as a small bakery in Seal Beach in 1987, Cinnamon Productions recently added a San Clemente location, near the Krikorian Theaters on Camino de los Mares, which now gives patrons five restaurants to choose from in Orange County.

Cinnamon Productions offers a whole host of delights for those with a sweet tooth. If you can manage to walk past the long counter of baked goods and resist the divine smell, you’re to be commended. With items like cinnamon rolls, brownies, croissants, scones, cupcakes, pies, and decadent desserts like tiramisu, white amaretto and “monkey madness,” you’ll have a difficult time choosing just one.

Since they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, I brought my 8 and 10-year-old along to Cinnamon Productions to start the day and to get their uncensored opinions. My son chose the Kid’s Scramble and my daughter selected the Kid’s Combo with pancakes. Both devoured their meals, without the usual prompting to finish, which is a clear indication that we’ll be coming back again soon.

I had the hearty and delicious CP Breakfast Wrap with hash browns, plus a cinnamon roll that called my name from the moment I walked through the door. Once my kids started to “assist” me with the generous helping of country-style hash browns that accompanied my entrée, there was little sign they ever existed. As I expected, the giant, gooey cinnamon roll was heavenly.

Owner Randy Farah has succeeded at his vision of providing customers with good portions and a good value. With 80 items to choose from, Cinnamon Productions is an unpretentious and cozy place to take the family or to meet friends any time of the day. If you’re planning a special occasion or need help with a corporate event, they also offer full-service or drop-off catering, gift baskets and custom-made cakes. Visit
www.CinnamonProductions.com for a sampling of their offerings and for more information on their other locations in Foothill Ranch, Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita and Seal Beach.

Cinnamon Productions
647 Camino de los Mares, Suite D130 • San Clemente
949.218.8232 • CinnamonProductions.com