You can help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes.

On Sunday, Nov. 4 at 10 a.m. join me and thousands of others in the Walk to Cure Diabetes at UC Irvine to raise funding for research in the fight against Type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is not caused by obesity, overeating or a lack of exercise; it is an autoimmune disease that can strike anyone at any time — most frequently children. Insulin keeps people with Type 1 diabetes alive, but it is not a cure.

Fatal complications caused by the disease include kidney failure, blindness, amputation, heart attack and stroke. Children and adults with juvenile diabetes and their families are in a constant battle to manage blood-sugar levels with six or more daily finger pricks to test blood, multiple insulin injections each day, and careful monitoring of exercise and food intake.

My son Tristan was diagnosed seven years ago this month at age 14. Just to stay alive, he has given himself more than 15,330 shots of insulin since he was diagnosed.

The good news is that last year, JDRF expanded its research goals to be more patient focused:  to cure, treat, and prevent type 1 diabetes (T1D).  It’s highest priority is to cure T1D and remove the disease from the lives of our loved ones.

By making a tax-deductible donation, you can be a part of bringing about a cure. Each of us can make a difference.

You’ll also want to take advantage of the festivities and foods at the Food Festival. Participating eateries include Wienerschnitzel, Buffalo Wild Wings, Whole Foods, Bruegger’s, Bye Bye Sugar Bakery, Famous Dave’s BBQ Shack, Rubio’s, and Coca Cola.

Leave the trick-or-treating to the young ones, and take advantage of Fleming’s 5 for $6 'Til 7 menu in Newport Beach all night on Halloween. The special includes $6 wines, cocktails such as a Manhattan and a vintage vodka martini, and Pinot Noir, Angeline and Cabernet, Paripaso, and generous appetizers served from open until closing time at the Fleming’s bar.

The $5 appetizer menu includes jumbo shrimp cocktail, sweet chile calamari, roasted mushroom ravioli, tenderloin carpaccio, wicked Cajun barbecue shrimp; and best of all, a prime burger with cheese and bacon.

Fleming’s Newport Beach is at 455 Newport Center Drive. 949.720.9633.

We scored a major coup this week when Dave Lieberman agreed to answer our 20 Questions. In our book, Dave Lieberman, a contributor to OC Weekly’s Stick a Fork In It food blog, is one of the most brilliant denizens of Orange County.  Not only does he speak 11 languages,  he’s a corporate IT guy by day, and a talented food writer, highly skilled home chef, loving father, choir singer, and great friend to many on the side.

He grew up in New Jersey in a wanderlust family. His father loved to find little holes in the wall (as does Dave), and his mom trusted that shipping him off to school in Switzerland at 13 would be an invaluable experience.  “It was really my first glimpse into the fact there are multiple ways to lead a good life,” Lieberman says. “Really gave me a sense of perspective. And I met people from all over the world may of whom I’m still friends with.” 

Read on to find out some of Dave’s favorite OC holes in the wall, and although he wouldn’t reveal to us his top 5 favorite restaurants (he’s saving that for the OC Weekly) his restaurant picks are terrific. Enjoy, oh and sorry, Dave seeks anonymity when it comes to being photographed. We’re using one of his favorite seafood spots in the world, a street cart in Ensenada, as his headshot.

Tomorrow night don’t miss Riviera’s biggest culinary event of the year, To Live & Dine Chef's Challenge from 7 to 9 p.m. at the OC Mart Mix in Costa Mesa. 

You can sample signature dishes from the most talented chefs in OC and the winner will be determined by your votes at the event. Local restaurants and their chefs participating include  "A" Restaurant, Bistango, Cinepolis, Cucina Alessa, French 75, Haven Gastropub, ...du bois., Mare Culinary Lounge, Memphis, Mesa, Nello Cucina, Nirvana Grille, Paul Martin's American Bistro, Posh Events, The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon, Roy's Hawaiian Fusion, Cuisine, Savanna Chop House, Scott's Seafood, Taco Asylum, Tamarind of London, Tommy Bahama Grille, and The Winery
Mixologists from the "A" Restaurant and The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon will be creating cocktails from Ketel One vodka, Don Julio tequila, Bulleit Bourbon Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, and Tanqueray London dry gin.

Admission is free with a suggested donation to JDRF. There will also be raffle tickets for opportunity prizes with 100% of the proceeds benefiting JDRF.

This event is strictly 21 and over.

OC Mart Mix at South Coast Collection (SOCO) is at 3303 Hyland Avenue in
Costa Mesa.
 

The Devil Martini

In celebration of Halloween, the award-winning Pizzeria Ortica in Costa Mesa is serving up a freakishly delicious cocktail all week, The Demon Martini with freshly muddled apples, limoncello, vanilla vodka and cranberry juice.

And tomorrow, Chef Justin Miller will debut an amazing seasonal porcini menu available nightly along with the regular dinner menu for fall.  Dishes include mustard greens with porcini, soft boiled egg and guanciale sherry vinaigrette $13; porcini risotto with acquerello carnaroli rice, smoked stacchino cheese and whole roasted shallots $16; and shaved porcini pizza with crushed San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil is $18.

Open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday to Friday; open for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. daily. Pizzeria Ortica is at 650 Anton Boulevard in Costa Mesa.

714.445.4900.

We’re always up for trying a new pizza joint, especially if it’s all about fresh ingredients, made from scratch recipes, and in the case at NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria opening Saturday in Laguna, it boasts a revered Stefano Ferrara oven imported from Naples that can heat up to 900 degrees

The word on the street is that this oven can churn out Neapolitan-style pizzas that purists live for. However the oven will only be as good as the chef behind it, so we’re thrilled that NEApolitan, is the brainchild of Frank de Loach, formerly the sous chef at Playground. His six-course omakase-style dinners at Playground were legendary, so we can only expect this culinary genius will make NEApolitan’s foodies swoon.

On the menu you can choose from pizzas such as autumn Guanciale with pumpkin, ricotta, pecorino, and agrodolce; or New Haven
little necks with garlic, Calabrian Chile, pecorino and mint; or this sounds spectacular, blackberry spiced jam with ricotta, bacon and arugula. And enjoy, small plates such as roasted octopus Dutch baby potatoes, orange, lardo, and Castelvetrano oives, or Sicilian Jidori wings with Calabrian chile, rosemary, and caramelized onion; and veal meatballs al forno San Marzano with grana padano, marjoram and ricotta. Let’s not forget the “birreria” at NEApolitan, select from a well-edited craft beer menu, beer cocktails and handcrafted cocktails.

NEApolitan at 31542 S. Coast Highway in Laguna Beach. 949.499.4531
 

In celebration of Halloween, the award-winning Pizzeria Ortica in Costa Mesa is serving up a freakishly delicious cocktail all week, The Demon Martini with freshly muddle apples, limoncello, vanilla vodka and cranberry juice.

And tomorrow, Chef Justin Miller will debut an amazing seasonal porcini menu available nightly along with the regular dinner menu for fall.  Dishes include mustard greens with porcini, soft boiled egg and guanciale sherry vinaigrette $13; porcini risotto with acquerello carnaroli rice, smoked stacchino cheese and whole roasted shallots $16; and shaved porcini pizza with crushed San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil is $18.

Open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday to Friday; open for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. daily.

Pizzeria Ortica is at 650 Anton Boulevard in Costa Mesa.
714.445.4900.

Brides with style rely on Utterly Engaged, an online bridal magazine, to find inspiration and resources to plan the perfect wedding. And it was at Utterly Engaged that we discovered Costa Mesa based cake studio, A Wish and a Whisk who designed the most beautiful cake we’ve ever seen on its current issue. (Pictured above)

A Wish and a Whisk is a custom cake studio owned by Lindsey Sinatra, formerly with Christopher Garren’s in Costa Mesa. She left Garren’s two years ago to branch out on her own with a Wish and a Whisk and is now a sought after cake designer in her own right, as a regular on
“Amazing Wedding Cakes”, and seen on the “Food Network Challenge.”

She’s also created 300 individual birthday cakes for Betty Whites 90th birthday gala; designed the cake for the New York City premiere of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”; and was honored to make a replica of the Paris Opera House for the closing of the 20 year world tour of The Phantom Of The Opera in Los Angeles. A Wish And A Whisk is open by appointment only, and the sky’s the limit as to what Sinatra can create in the form of an edible masterpiece.

She’s made 3-D cakes of life-like trucks, fantasy castles, hat boxes, perfume bottles, beautiful flowers, and fanciful gifts boxes. Choose from 22 cake flavors including Thin Mint, Black n’ White, Jamoca Almond Fudge, Pumpkin Pie, Carrot Crunch, Chocolatey Goodness, Berry Bliss and Red Velvet.

To find out more about A Wish and a Whisk visit http://www.awishandawhisk.com/ online or call 949.648.3458.

Photo courtesy Caroline Tran.

Bruxie’s Old Town Orange flagship location turns two this week, and in honor of the occasion it will hold a “birthday fundraiser” Thursday benefiting the Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Stop by and savor Bruxie’s signature gourmet waffle sandwiches seasonal shakes and floats made with real Wisconsin frozen custard and Bruxie will donate 10% of all sales from its locations in Old Towne Orange, Brea Downtown and Rancho Santa Margarita to the designated charities.

Bruxie specializes in authentic Belgian waffles, as well as salads, locally produced old-fashioned cane sugar sodas, real Wisconsin frozen custard, shakes, sundaes and floats. Bruxie also serves Peet’s Coffee & Tea, and menu items are affordable, nothing costs more than $10.

Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday to Saturday. 292 North Glassell St. in Orange. 714.633.3900.

Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday to Saturday. 215 W. Birch Street in Brea.
714.255.1188. 

Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. 22205 El Paseo, Suite A in Rancho Santa Margarita. 949.207.6570.

The legendary Italian luxury lifestyle brand, Fendi just reopened its South Coast Plaza boutique in Costa Mesa. The new design is part of Fendi’s evolution of the new ‘Palazzo’ design concept from its headquarters in Rome, Italy. In 1925, Fendi set up the first handbag and fur workshop in Rome and today it’s exceptional collections are overseen by Karl Lagerfeld for its women’s ready to wear and fur, and Silvia Venturini Fendi for accessories.

The ‘Palazzo’ design concept includes different sections for handbags, ready-to-wear, furs, shoes and accessories. A luxurious seating area shows off its intimate shoe salon, and the final touches on the fur area include rich rugs to complete the room.

On Tuesday, Nov. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m., celebrate Fendi’s grand reopening with the Dream Guild hosting a shopping event to benefit JDRF. It’s the perfect time to shop Fendi’s collections while supporting research to find a cure for type 1 diabetes.

To confirm your attendance, just call 714.751.1111. Level 1, near Macy’s at South Coast Plaza. 

Here’s the perfect opportunity to create a one-of-a kind necklace for a holiday gift, or for you, at the Zowee trunk show at Solutions, the Premier Denim Store in Newport Beach on Friday from noon to 4 p.m. You can make an appointment to commission a piece to wear with a special outfit. Zowee’s eclectic chic line has a slight edge and plenty of vintage and mixed metal elements, such as brass, bronze, white bronze, silver, gold, gunmetal and copper jewelry.

Solutions, the Premier Denim Store is at 1719 Westcliff Drive in Newport Beach. 949.650.0479. 

We are counting down the hours and days until Sunday’s Anais+ Mad Meat Men feast at Picnics in Costa Mesa. Picture six men, six courses, and six wine pairings proudly served in large portions from 6 to 8 p.m. The main act is a pastured boar from Da-La Ranch that will be a key component in each course along with the freshest SoCo Farmers' Market ingredients.

Here’s a sneak peak of the menu: Chef Michael Harris’s boar Scotch egg with persimmon chutney and microgreen salad with a lime vinaigrette; Chef Dave Lieberman’s greens and hocks, with boar lard Southern biscuits; Chef Jason Coulston’s  confit boar belly and cheese tart with green apple salad; Chef Carlos Salgado’s green posole or chile verde; David Kim’s boar potstickers, boar-perilla tempura and boar cha siu bao; and Anais Tangie’s persimmon pudding with a honey almond brittle topped with crispy bacon bits. The six wine pairings are by Julie Lim of OC Wine Mart.

Seating is limited to 34 people with tickets selling for $40 community table, $50 chef table, and add $20 for wine pairing.

Tickets to this epic feast are pre-paid only. Please follow this link to purchase tickets. 

Picnics Kitchen is at  435 E 17th St. #7 in Costa Mesa.

Photo De-La Ranch boar courtesy Anne Watson Photography.

We’ve been longtime fans of Rochelle Flammer, one of the most talented hair stylists in Orange County and now that she’s relocated to Tek Salon in Costa Mesa, we’re thrilled. Rochelle is the go to stylist if you have long hair, which we find isn’t the case with every stylist, but she can also do great shorter cuts too. Her specialties include cuts and color, ombré, and incredible blow-outs.

Her style is natural and bohemian, and she’s a perfectionist. “I listen to what my clients want,” Rochelle says. “I don't just do what I want. I am honest. I do this because I love what I do; I’m not in it for the money.”  If you want your hair to look fantastic, make an appointment with Rochelle. She’s offering 20% off services for new clients.

Available 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. 310.890.7399. roeflammer14@aol.com  http://www.teksalonandspa.com

Tek Salon is at 230 East 17th St. in Costa Mesa.

In celebration of Veterans Day, California Pizza Kitchens are inviting veterans and active military in for a complimentary pizza Sunday, November 11, and Monday, November 12.

It’s California Pizza Kitchen’s small way of showing their appreciation for service men and women’s commitment, sacrifice, and heroism. Dine-in only for any pizza and also receive a non-alcoholic beverage. Come in uniform or bring your military ID or other proof of service. Offered at all full-service California Pizza Kitchen locations

CPK is at Fashion Island in Newport Beach 949.759.5543; on Michelson Drive in Irvine 949.2975.1585. Bella Terra in Huntington Beach. 714.372.3157; The Market Place in Tustin. 714.838.5083; Mainplace Mall in Santa Ana 714.479.0604; Irvine Spectrum in Irvine. 949.585.9531; Anaheim GardenWalk 714.991.0305; Laguna Hills Mall 949.458.9600; The Shops at Rossmoor in Seal Beach 562.430.2695. Mission Viejo on Marguerite Parkway 949.951.5026; Brea Mall in Brea. 714.672.0407.

For more information on California Pizza Kitchen visit http://www.cpk.com. 

One of the best designer consignment shops in Orange County, OnQueStyle in Corona del Mar is celebrating its reopening and expansion with a Pink Carpet event for charity on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m.

Owner, Kristen Prosser, a fashion designer, runway specialist and personal style consultant is also debuting OnQueStyle’s new program called Your Clothes.Your Cause to encourage people to participate in charitable giving by donating items from their closets. You can schedule an appointment to consign designer apparel, handbags, shoes and accessories and when it sells you can make a contribution of any amount to the charity of your choice. Also, OnQueStyle will donate an additional 10% to the charity. With the closets in Orange County that get updated with the seasons, this is a win-win for everyone.

Prosser recently donated a brand new highly sought-after Hermes Birkin handbag to Beckstrand Cancer Foundation at the Diamond & Pearl Ball (pictured above) for their live auction which received a final bid of $24,000.

OnQueStyle Boutique is at 2900 East Coast Highway in

Corona del Mar. 949.717.7795.

http://www.onquestyle.com/

To aid in relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Sandy, Haven Gastropub in Orange is hosting a 15-hour fundraising event today from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. All profits will be donated to Red Cross Disaster Relief set up through Indiegogo to help those affected by the disaster. Fundraisers at taco asylum in Costa Mesa will follow on Monday, Nov. 19 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., at Burger Haven in Pasadena on Tuesday, Nov. 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and at Haven Gastropub +Brewery in Pasadena on Tuesday, Nov. 20 from noon to 2 a.m.

Similarly in 2010 and 2011, Executive Chef Greg Daniels, who along with Partners Wil Dee and Ace Patel, raised a total of $27,000 for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and  victims of the tsunami in Japan. “We’re counting on our many supporters to come out and enjoy our full menu knowing that every dollar they spend will help those in need of our help. As long as we are in a position to do so, we will continue to support relief efforts through Red Cross Disaster Relief.”

Haven specialized in dishes made from farm-to-table fresh ingredients always from scratch. Try their award-winning Haven Burger with roasted red bell peppers, wild arugula, pickled red onions and St. Agur blue cheese; and housemade salt & vinegar chips of red wine vinegar and sea salt and truffle fries served with garlic aïoli dipping sauce or housemade ketchup. Haven’s affordably priced menu ($5-$20), incudes delectable desserts such as enticing ice creams flavors, including candied bacon, salted caramel and tobacco-infused.

Also, enjoy a world selection of craft beer offered alongside boutique wines, scotches, whiskeys and bourbons. Haven Gastropub is at 190 South Glassell Street in Orange.

714.221.0680

I Scream, You Scream

Farrell's Ice Cream Parlours is honoring US Veterans today with a free All-American Thank You Sundae. Every single service man and woman, past and present can enjoy an exclusive Thank You sundae that includes 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream, blueberry compote, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, a cherry topped with an American flag.

There is no purchase necessary and it cannot be combined with any other special or offer, except for Farrell's normal 10% military discount. Acceptable ID’s include a U.S. Uniform Services ID Card (active/reserve/retired), Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Photograph of yourself in uniform, Veterans Organizations Card (e.g., American Legion and VFW), DD214 or discharge paperwork. 

In Orange County at 215 S Brea Blvd. in Brea. 714.990.4FUN. The Shops at Mission Viejo in Mission Viejo. 949.364.5411

Wine enthusiasts and collectors won’t want to miss SoCal’s premier luxury wine auction event, Share Our Wine Foundation’s Auction Orange County on Saturday at 6 p.m. Samueli Theater at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. It will feature more than 250 silent and live wine auction lots made up of guests donated prized bottles from their personal collections. Guests can enjoy delicious food and free flowing wine tastings from top vintners while searching for rare wines to add to their private collections.

A sampling of items up for bid this year include:

Chateau Lafite Rothschild Three Pack: 1970, 1978 and 2001

2001 Coche-Dury Meursault Perrieres Single Bottle Burgundy

Joseph Phelps Insignia Dinner with Bill Phelps.

One-of-a-kind vacations to prominent wine destinations, including private air service.

Since its inception eight years ago, Auction Orange County has raised nearly $800,000 for local children’s charities, and strives to raise $1,000,000 with the help of fundraising auctioneer David Reynolds. Proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County http://www.bigbrooc.org , Orangewood Children's Foundation and Festival of Children Foundation’s“The Possible Dream” grant program.

Auction preview starts at 5 p.m.; general and silent wine auction starts at 6 p.m.; live auction at 8 p.m.  
Tickets cost $200 per person, and are available online at http://www.shareourwine.org or call 800.527.6201.   

Designer and TV personality Whitney Port will be at Apricot Lane Boutique at Downtown Disney District in Anaheim on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. to promote the launch of her budget-friendly fashions, prices range from $59 to $79. One lucky guest will win a piece from the new clothing line.

Port’s new WE by Whitney Eve Fall 2012 combines signature styles with a modern twist like the Curve Dress, Love Sweater, Willie skirt, Steel top and Criss Cross leggings. Apricot Lane Boutique features celebrity inspired fashions, accessories and more teens through 50 year olds.

Apricot Lane Boutique is at Downtown Disney District (across from Rainforest Café and ESPN Zone and next to Movie Theater) at 1565 S. Disneyland Drive in Anaheim.

The place for fashionistas to be on Saturday is Solutions Premier Denim in Newport Beach. They are having their annual Holiday Fashion Show sponsored by Hudson Jeans. The event begins at 3:30 p.m. with Holiday Martini's, the catwalk starts at 4 p.m. You will see what is hot for the Holidays and the latest denim trends. The music will be spinning and fashions will be flowing and good times will be had by all!  Anyone picking up new styles will enjoy special discounts and a swag bag.

RSVP for seating by calling 949.650.0479.  1719 Westcliff Drive in Newport Beach.

Deemer’s American Grill in Laguna Niguel is celebrating “A Day of Giving” on Thursday where 10% of all the sales from the day will go to the Orange County Food Bank that supplies food to local churches, shelters and senior centers. 

Also, enjoy a live music performance by The Fugowies from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Deemer’s is a contemporary roadside diner that offers 100% grass-fed all natural beef hamburgers, delicious salads, savory sandwiches, and hand-made shakes. They proudly use the finest local ingredients in their all-American food classics.

Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 27221 LaPaz Rd. Suite E. Laguna Niguel. 949.425.8770
 

Treat yourself to a little rejuvenation this holiday season. Now, for a limited time only, enjoy 10 complimentary units of Botox, with a minimum purchase of 20 units with one of the experts at Leur Lab Integrated Aesthetics in Newport Beach.

The offer ends Dec. 31 so book your treatment ASAP by calling 949.200.8222.

Leur Lab Integrated Aesthetics is a 100% non-surgical, premier facility of its kind.  Combining the latest advances in aesthetic device procedures with designer treatments and combination therapies, Leur Lab is able to maximize treatment results while minimizing social downtime. It proudly offers pain free laser hair removal, tattoo removal, laser skin resurfacing and rejuvenation, body contouring, plus Botox and fillers. Leur Lab is also an authorized provider of the Vampire Facelift™; and offers a patent pending L-Fix™ membership, a broad spectrum of preventative, maintenance, enhancement and corrective treatments that are more affordable than ever before.

Office hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Extended hours available by appointment only. Leur Lab’s  flagship location is across from Fashion Island at 359 San Miguel Drive, Suite 300, in Newport Beach.  949.200.8222.

***This certificate holds no cash value and is non-transferable.  This certificate cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons, rebates, savings or discounts. Only one certificate per person per visit will be honored. Some restrictions may apply depending on availability of particular services.

Orange County Look of Love is an event for today’s bride on Sunday from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Chuck Jones Center in Costa Mesa. Guests can enjoy delicious food from 24 Carrots, several signature cocktail stations, and a bridal beauty fashion lounge. View the latest wedding trends and meet wedding experts. There will also be a chance to win incredible prizes like $7000 Amy Michelson bridal gown, $1500 gift certificate to Mon Amie, a dress from the new "Social" Jenny Yoo Collection, $1000 towards a rehearsal dinner with 24 Carrots & Events, boudoir session, engagement session, couture photo booth, and more.
Arrive early at 11 a.m. for a VIP Bridal Tea Party experience. Chuck Jones Center at 3321 Hyland Ave. in Costa Mesa.

All tickets include admission to a cocktail party for the bride and groom on Friday at 7 p.m. at [Seven Degrees] at 891 Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach.

Tickets cost $25, or VIP cost $40. Tickets are available online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/262177

Food Truck Challenge

The ultimate in gourmet food trucks will gather on Saturday at SoCo Certified Farmers’ Market for the Farm to Food Truck Challenge IV, a farmers’ market inspired cooking competition. It’s also a celebration of SoCoFM’s second year of offering the best bounty from local farmers including Da-Le Ranch steaks, ribs, sausages, chicken and more each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Costa Mesa. Enjoy a Farmers’ Market Feast prepared by gourmet food truck chefs served on long communal tables. Ten gourmet food trucks will serve foods, while three trucks compete in the challenge using SoCo Farmers Market ingredients and Savory Spice salts and spices. Top Chop Judges will join together and vote with their forks to choose the Top Chop Truck. Tickets are available to Taste the Market, in exchange for a sampling plate from the competing trucks for $30.

Competing trucks include Taco Maria, Seabirds, and A Bite Truck. Other trucks on site serving foods include Barcelona On the Go, Calbi, Lobsta Truck, Rancho a Go Go, Tamarindo, Front Porch Pops, and Piaggio On Wheels.

The Challenge kicks off at noon, judging begins at 1 p.m. and the winner will be announced at 1:30 p.m.
The festivities will also feature live music, and kid-friendly activities. A food drive benefiting Costa Mesa locals will also take place just bring canned goods or make a small donation. South Coast Collection (“SoCo”) at the 3315 Hyland Ave in Costa Mesa.

Purchase a $30 Tasting Tickets to eat one of each of the Challengers competition dishes via PayPal. Only 100 Tasting Tickets sold. Here's the link to copy, paste and share: http://bit.ly/U6fFxf .

Save Our Beach

Save Our Beach monthly beach cleanup is scheduled for Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the beach parking lot at the end of 1st Street, Seal Beach. Just bring garden/work gloves, reusable water bottle and trash grabber. Trash bags were donated by www.everybodygreen.com and were made from recycled plastic bottles. Volunteers are asked to carry bags back to the blue canopy and take out recycle items and then empty remaining trash into the blue dumpsters. Want to schedule your own beach cleanup? Just email, Kim Masoner, Founder of "Save Our Beach" at kim@saveourbeach.org and she’ll help you arrange your own beach cleanup! She’ll handle the required city permit, free parking, bags, gloves, etc. You can clean the beach for an hour or two and then enjoy a clean beach.

Start your holiday shopping early at a holiday boutique to benefit Second Chance Pet Adoptions on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Huntington Beach. It’s a day of shopping from more than 20 vendors including, jewelry, home decor, candles, bath & body products, homemade crafts and more. A $1 admission ticket will also get you a free door prize.

All proceeds benefit Second Chance Pet Adoptions.  Elks Lodge is at 7711 Talbert Ave in Huntington Beach. 714.989.6964. 
 

Be a fashion trends insider at Neiman Marcus Fashion Island today from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and support Laura's House, on a mission to end the silence of domestic abuse. You can meet special guest Ana Maria Pimentel, former accessories director at Harper's Bazaar, who is now fashion director for women's accessories at Neiman Marcus.

The event will include light beverages and brunch bites. Pimentel will show a special Fashion Trend Presentation of Fall/ Resort 2012 and a sneak preview of Spring 2013.

Tickets cost $75 and 100% of ticket sales benefit Laura's House. Level 2, at Neiman Marcus Fashion Island. Purchase tickets here https://www.laurashouse.org/anet/direct_post.php

Which tennis legends will reign supreme? In the final stop of the PowerShares Series Champions Cup at Honda Center on Friday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. tennis greats Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, Jim Courier and Michael Chang will be competing for the #1 ranked player, with $1 million dollars of bonus pool money on the line for the top three finishers.

The competitive tennis circuit featuring other legendary tennis icons and world-renowned champions such as Pete Sampras, Jimmy Connors, Mats Wilander and Patrick Rafter has been touring 12-cities for one-night tournaments since Oct. 13.

If you’re one of the luckiest ones you’ll be meeting the tennis greats as a VIP guest prior to the match. The VIP Experiences with Tennis Legends includes  backstage, party and even take the court to spend an hour trading groundstrokes with tennis greats. Each VIP Package includes an incredible experience with the pros, along with an event ticket for the Champion's Cup.

Tickets range in price from $45 to $290 and up. Tickets are available at http://www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 800.745.3000, or at the Honda Center Box Office, and for information on interactive VIP fan experience opportunities visit http://www.hondacenter.com. Honda Center is at 2695 East Katella Ave. in Anaheim.

Today Laguna Niguel will be celebrating its first 118 Degrees Community Cafe arriving at Ocean Ranch Village. Chef Jenny Ross will be offering the first 100 guests a choice of holiday coconut sugar cookies or a merry monkey smoothie. The living cuisine restaurant will serve fresh, whole-foods smoothies, quick-serve and grab n’ go options and will offer meal programs like her two other locations.

Since 2007, Chef Jenny Ross has brought fresh, organic living cuisine to Orange County at her flagship 118 Degrees Restaurant at The CAMP in Costa Mesa, and more recently at Center Street Promenade in Anaheim. The new location open daily offers a shared communal seating and a 12-seat patio.

The CAMP is at 2981 Bristol St. Suite B5 in Costa Mesa. Center Street Promenade is at 185 W. Center Street Promenade in Anaheim. Ocean Ranch Village is at 32341 Golden Lantern in Laguna Niguel.

To learn more about 118 Degrees or Chef Jenny Ross, visit http://www.118degrees.com or http://www.jennyrosslivingfoods.com.

One of my best friends. Alli Dafferner co-owns a fantastic boutique called LuLu Too on East 17th Street in Costa Mesa. Sadly, her husband Skee was hit hard 10 days ago with a terrible bout with Multiple Sclerosis. Since his diagnosis 8 years ago, he’s never suffered this badly with symptoms. A lesion on his brain is making everything for him, including walking extremely difficult. Alli and her husband, and their three daughters are having a tough time. And they want to help find a cure for disease multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.

For the past few days, LuLu Too has been donating 20% of all proceeds to Multiple Sclerosis Society. Lulu Too carries affordable stylish and comfortable pieces for your wardrobe including Allen Allen, NikiBiki and Jolie, as well as small leather goods, scarves, fedoras, and jackets. The winter wraps are perfect for holiday gift giving. LuLu Too even has a designated kids corner with weekly specials for children ages 8 to 14. The boutique will be at this location through Christmas, and is also available for after hours shopping events, gatherings, and college holiday care package nights.

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. 333 East 17th St. in Costa Mesa. 949.631.5166.

In celebration of Whole Foods Newport Beach opening and its eatery inside the market, Back Bay Tavern, Executive Chef Dennis Horton has planned the first Chef’s Table Series tonight through Wednesday.  Chef Horton will be cooking a feast with friends and family that brings the community and local foods together. Unfortunately, tickets to this event are sold out but more Table Series are planned.

Back Bay Tavern serves 36 craft beers on tap, plus wine and spirits, along with an extensive menu that includes beef, seafood, vegetarian and vegan meals. Back Bay Tavern is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, the market is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Reservations required at sp.npt.marketing@wholefoods.com or call 949.999.8672 ext. 135.

Whole Foods Newport Beach is at 415 Newport Center Drive in Newport Beach.

Our favorite local butcher shop, Celestino’s Meats in Costa Mesa is the go to source for custom cuts of high quality meats all year round, and it’s especially perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. Even though Thanksgiving is tomorrow, you can still pick up a fresh free range Diestel turkey, pumpkin pies, cranberry sauce, and other great sides.

Celestino’s is also famous for its 32 varieties of natural handmade sausage all made in-house, all natural jerky beef and turkey as well as gluten free and no sugar jerky. Their beef is natural Mannings Beef, and prime rib roast is perfect for holiday meals. They offer excellent deli meats, homemade meatballs, lasagna, American lamb legs, veal, and you can call for special orders to have them ready when you arrive.

Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today. 270 E. 17th St. in Costa Mesa. 949.642.7191. 

One of the most gifted singers, songwriters and musicians of our lifetime, Paul Williams will be performing at a benefit concert for SeniorServ, Meals on Wheels program on Sunday, Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in Irvine at The University Synagogue. At “An Intimate Evening with Paul Williams” attendees can see the Academy Award, Grammy and Golden Globe winning composer, musician, songwriter, and actor performing some of his famous classics, such as “We’ve Only Just Begun,” Rainy Days and Mondays,” “Evergreen,” “You and Me Against the World” and more.

The concert is hosted by the Center for Spiritual Living Newport-Mesa and The University Synagogue.

Tickets cost $35 and $100 and are available at the Center Sundays and online at http://www.SeniorServ.org. VIP Tickets include a meet and greet with Paul Williams.

3400 Michelson Drive in Irvine. 714.229.3349.

Stock up on all things Hobie at its warehouse sale in San Juan Capistrano Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At the Hobie Surf Shop you can save 50 to 70% on apparel, swimwear, and accessories for the entire family. Also, a selection of SUP boards will be available too.

Hobie Warehouse Sale at 32921A Calle Perfecto in San Juan Capistrano.

Rockin' Sales

Royal Underground, a rock lifestyle OC based line is holding a warehouse sale Friday through Sunday. You can save up to 80% on edgy and sophisticated men’s and women’s fashions. The selection includes jackets, coats, furs, dresses, evening tops, jeans and more. 

Noon to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. 2532 White Road in Irvine. 

Howzit! Surf brand Hawaiian Island Creations is rolling out its holiday sample sale on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find discounts on shorts, hats, tees, tanks, hoodies, stickers, and more. A percentage of the proceeds will go to Edison High School Basketball Program. Cash only. HIC Sample Sale is at Edison High School at 21400 Magnolia St. in Huntington Beach.

At Rook Brand’s warehouse sale on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. stock up on Rook’s cool hats, tees, tanks, crewnecks, hoodies, beanies and jackets. Supplies are limited and backpacks, bags, or big purses aren’t allowed.

130 McCormick Ave. Suite 108 in Costa Mesa.

Orange County’s premiere photography studio, Brystan Studios is offering holiday specials ideal for the man who has everything. How about a fantastic portrait of you that’s a one of a kind gift? Lori Brystan’s signature portrait session is specially priced at just $199 (a $570 value). The package comes with two looks and backdrops, professional hair and makeup, and consultation.

There’s a minimum $1500 additional portrait investment required to shoot with Lori Brystan. The Classic Portrait session is priced for a limited time at $299 ($630 value). The package comes with two looks and backdrops, one 8x10, hair and makeup, and consultation.  Classic Session is with a Brystan Studios staff photographer. Portrait collections require additional investment. Gift certificates are available.

To schedule a holiday session call 949.831.3774. You can view galleries at http://www.BrystanStudios.com

27001 Moulton Pkwy, Suite 108 in Aliso Viejo.

DeBilzan Gallery in Laguna Beach will be donating 20% of the proceeds from original art, sculptures and gift items Saturday and Sunday to Human Options’ Shelter Repair & Remodel Project. The specific project was created by Marlene Lynch of Lynch Design Group in honor of her late brother, Daniel.  Just before he passed away earlier this year, they agreed to keep his memory alive by helping to refurbish Human Options’ Emergency Women’s Shelter - a safe haven for women and children fleeing domestic violence.  In addition to donating her design services to the project, Lynch partnered with DeBilzan to raise the additional funds needed to complete the remodeling project.

DeBilzan Gallery features works from William DeBilzan, Tony Dow, Roberto Romano and Ryan Heimbach. 224 Forest Avenue in Laguna Beach. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

For more information or to make a donation contact Marlene Lynch, Lynch Design Group at 714.321.7099 or marlene@lynchdesigngroup.net.

An offer like this from Graviti Fitness in Corona del Mar doesn’t happen often. During Sunday’s Corona del Mar Christmas Walk from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the personal fitness studio is offering $49 Gift Cards good for 30 days of Unlimited boot camp or two personal training sessions. They make great stocking stuffers or gifts for your friends! Also during Sunday’s Christmas Walk stop by from 11 a.m. to noon to enter a drawing to Win 3 Free Personal Training Sessions (winners will be announced at 1 and 4 p.m.).  And be sure not to miss Aerial performer Sasha Fedortchev who has performed with Cirque du Soleil and around the world at many events. Sasha will perform at 12:15 p.m., offer a free aerial workshop from 12:45 to 2 p.m., and give a final performance from 2 to 2:30 p.m..

No matter how big or small your fitness goals are, Graviti can create custom personal training program that focuses on toning, core, strength, firming and overall fitness. Its professional trainers are results oriented depending on your goals.

Open 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. 3419 E. Coast Highway in Corona Del Mar. GravitiCdm@gmail.com

 

The sounds of Christmas at its best are what’s in store for you at Fiesta Navidad, an evening of folkloric songs and mariachi holiday music by Grammy Award-winning ensemble Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall on Saturday, at 8 p.m. Fiesta Navidad will also feature include new musical arrangements and choreography.The performance starts with La Posada, followed by interpretations of international holiday music and dance, and then the audience can sing-along with classics such as “Feliz Navidad” and “Noche

de Paz” and enjoy festive dance numbers. Tickets for Fiesta Navidad start at $25 and are available online at SCFTA.org. 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa. 714.556.2787.

Ritual JuiceBox, the source for organic bottled juice blends is celebrating its flagship location grand opening this weekend at the Camp in Costa Mesa. We’re especially thrilled since the three-day event from Friday to Sunday will be supporting JDRF. Stop by for some exciting raffle prizes and try Ritual’s amazing juices.
Ritual Wellness creates 100% USDA certified organic, raw, cold-pressed fruit, nut, vegetable juices and cleanses. Juices cost from $2 to $10; combo packs: $9 to $18.

The company stands apart as the only juice cleanse on the market that includes the fitness-friendly Shred component-- two pre and post workout juices designed to help performance and maximize recovery.

Open 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Kick start your holiday shopping at O’Neill’s huge sale Friday and Saturday where you can save 40% on all clothing, footwear and accessories; and 20% off on all wetsuits and rashguards.

You’ll also receive a free gift with any purchase of $75 or more, and 20% of all proceeds will go to Estancia Aquatics. Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

14370 Myford Road, Irvine. 949.751.3336.