Savannah Chop House

Savannah Chop House
By Bonnie Small

Savannah Chop House in Laguna Niguel has recently undergone a culinary facelift, but not the type that might leave it unrecognizable to its dearest patrons. Executive Chef Chris Tzorin and his Chef de Cuisine, Manny Velasco, have choreographed a gentle transition which honors the restaurant’s traditional offerings while injecting some swag with modern plating techniques and locally sourced accompaniments.

Of Guatemalan decent, but born in Orange County, Chris got his start at age 13 washing dishes and as a prep cook in his father’s kitchen (Chef Luis Tzorin of 21 Oceanfront fame). By the age of 20, he was running the kitchen at The Beach House in Laguna and developing his “edgy” personal style that is evident in his trademark red chef coat, multiple tattoos, and the way he rocks a plate of food.

Under Tzorin’s direction, Savannah now serves exclusively Aspen Ridge grass-fed beef and each steak is hand cut in-house. Normally a filet-kind-of-gal, I took a stab at the Chop of the Day – a bone-in Rib Eye grilled to medium rare perfection, served with Savannah’s decadent jalapeño cheddar scalloped potatoes and tender-crisp broccolini.

Chris also bangs out a divine grilled Chilean Sea Bass, topped with a luscious bruleed jumbo scallop, stacked atop a tasty vegetable ragout and a glimmering puddle of citrus beurre blanc. Have I mentioned the whipped butternut squash? Don’t miss it.

Just off his win at the OC Taste Fest in 2012, Tzorin has also been honing his skills on two Food Network shows – as a competitor on Guy’s Grocery Games (aired November 24th) and as a contestant on an upcoming episode of Cutthroat Kitchen, hosted by Alton Brown.

Chris is a dynamic guy who loves to mingle with guests and talk about what ingredients are getting his attention at the moment, so his monthly cooking classes are a must-do! Held the first Wednesday of the month at 11:30 a.m., the $35 price includes a drink, yummy lunch, and three recipes.

Savannah Chop House
32441 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel
949.493.7107