More dining choices are popping up at The Market Place in Tustin/Irvine for those looking for barbecue, Italian, Asian and classic burgers.  

PIADINA – Italian Market Sandwiches  just opened on the Tustin side of The Market Place. It’s offering grilled-to-order sandwiches on thin flatbread wrapped around a variety of fillings, like cheese and prosciutto. Choose from 10 signature sandwiches, or make your own from its list of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Piadina also makes fresh gelato, flavors change weekly. Piadina gets its name from the famed rustic flatbread sandwiches of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region.

2961 El Camino Real, Tustin. 714.417.9660

Famous Dave’s Barbeque, just opened on the Irvine side of the center. Famous Dave's authentic BBQ starts with the highest quality meats hand rubbed with a custom blend of spices and cooked for hours in a live-wood smoker stoked with genuine hickory logs. Their original sauces let you create your own legendary BBQ experience. (There is also a Famous Dave’s on S. Bristol in Santa Ana.)

13122 Jamboree Rd. in Irvine. 714.462.9179.
3608 S Bristol St. in Santa Ana. 714.957.1857

THE MELT  will open on the Tustin side of the center in the fall. The casual eatery’s made-to-order menu of ‘real happy food’ includes hot-n-crispy grilled cheese melts, juicy burger melts, fresh chicken melts, fries and salads. You can also get your Melt fix at  the Irvine Spectrum.

The Melt Irvine Spectrum at 665 Spectrum Center Drive in Irvine. 949.954.6621.
 

Wokcano  will offer a broad and savory culinary tour of popular Asian cuisines. Slated to open in late fall on the Tustin side of the center, the restaurant and lounge will feature a sushi bar, a full menu of modern Asian cuisine and a cocktail lounge.

Other recent restaurant additions include TAPS Fish House & Brewery, a full-scale fish and chop house complemented by award winning craft beers; and Miguel’s Jr. homestyle fast casual Mexican Food, Pieology, Mizu Sushi & Grill, Class 302, Islands Restaurant, G Burger, Bonefish Grill and Capriotti’s Sandwiches. 

In the spring of 2016, Urban Plates and a Starbucks drive-thru will open at The Market Place as well.

The Marketplace is at 2961 El Camino Real in Tustin.

Always wanted to learn how to make your own New England Clam Bake? Chef Cathy Pavlos of Provenance in Newport Beach (and Lucca Café in Irvine) will be giving a free cooking class this Saturday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Surfas Culinary District in Costa Mesa.

The class is a preview of what’s to come at the first Sunday Supper at Provenance featuring a New England Clam Bake on Sunday, July 19 at 3 p.m.

The Southern California-style New England Clam Bake will feature a four-course menu, paired by a choice of artisanal wines from California and Italy or hyper-local craft beers.
Sunday Supper Clam Bake Menu:

First course begins with a Newport (RI) clam chowder, drawn butter, oyster crackers and Tabasco with choice of Zardetto Prosecco Brut, Italy or Scrimshaw Beer on Draft, Mendocino.

Second Course includes a Caesar salad, locally grown heirloom tomatoes,
biscuits and housemade honey butter with choice of Tolosa Unoaked Chardonnay, 2013, Edna Valley, or Coulter Draft IPA, Cismontaine Brewing Co., Rancho Santa Margarita.

Main Course includes lobster steamed in beer, Portuguese steamed clams, mussels, and shrimp with chorizo, new potatoes with three sausages, grilled corn on the cob, chilled watermelon sliceswith choice of ONX Indie Tempranillo Rose, 2014 Paso Robles or Una Mas Amber Lager, Left Coast Brewery, San Clemente.

Dessert includes warm blueberry turnovers with French vanilla bean ice cream and fresh peach sauce with cafe Lavazza.
$65 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

The Clam Bake will start at 3 p.m. Seating is limited and guests are required to make reservations in advance by calling 949.718.0477.

Surfas Culinary District is at 3309 Hyland Ave. in Costa Mesa. 714.453.COOK (2665).

Provenance is at Eastbluff Village Center, 2531 Eastbluff Drive in Newport Beach. 949.718.0477.

PIRCH at SOCO Collection invites you to a foodie fundraiser on Thursday, July 9 from 6 to 9 pm, benefitting the Herbert Family.

Mom of two Jessica Herbert was recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer, and the PIRCH community has partnered with her family to help them enjoy every minute they have together and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Guests will enjoy delicious food stations and a Food Fight Challenge between Chef Athan and Chef Craig, emceed by “Sam the Cooking Guy.”

Tickets are available for $50, which includes food, drinks, and a raffle ticket, and all proceeds will go directly to the Herbert family. Guests will also have the opportunity to buy additional raffle tickets for prizes including a Bosch dishwasher, Wolf blender, concert tickets, and a cookbook set.

To purchase tickets, visit Jessicaherbert.eventbrite.com.

PIRCH at SOCO Collection is at 3303 Hyland Ave. in Costa Mesa.

Can you believe it's already been two decades since the Irvine Spectrum Center opened? Back then, there wasn’t anything quite like it in South Orange County. In 1995, Irvine Spectrum Center was a new vibrant mecca for all ages with shopping, restaurant and an Edwards Irvine Spectrum 21 & IMAX, the first megaplex movie theater in the world with 6,400 seats, 21 screens, including an eight-story high IMAX theater.

Today, it’s grown to encompass a 5,000-acre Irvine Spectrum area with much more: office buildings, resort-style living apartments, transportation and shopping, dining and entertainment and the country’s best place for laughs, the Improv Comedy Club, along with a Nordstrom, Target and H&M.

New stores and eateries for this year include Tilly’s new flagship, Haban, CREAM, Yogurtland and Pressed Juicery.

On Saturday from 2 to 10 p.m., Irvine Spectrum Center is celebrating its 20 year anniversary in a big way by inviting you to join in on an entire day of family-fun games and entertainment.

The Giant Wheel Court will be transformed into game central, where participants can challenge each other in games of bingo, play a giant Jenga with a game host and DJ – and spin a wheel for prizes, and take free  rides on the spectacular new LED-illuminated Giant Wheel.

You can share favorite memories of Irvine Spectrum Center by hashtagging photos for Irvine Spectrum Center’s Instagram and Facebook pages.

To learn more about the history of Irvine Spectrum, check out ShopIrvineSpectrumCenter.com which includes notable milestones and photographs of Irvine Spectrum Center.

670 Spectrum Center Drive in Irvine.

Movie fans are in for FREE and fun musical screenings at Segerstrom Center for the Arts as Movie Mondays returns Monday, July 13 on the Arts Plaza.

Projected on the side of Segerstrom Hall, Movie Mondays kicks off at dusk (about 8 p.m.) with the screening of the campy musical and two-time Academy Award-nominee "Little Shop of Horrors".

Next up, it’s the modern-day musical mash-up, "Pitch Perfect" (July 20). Then it’s a nostalgic coming-of-age adventure, "The Sandlot" (July 27); and one of Julia Robert’s most memorable movies, "My Best Friend’s Wedding" (Aug. 3); and "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" (Aug. 10) will conclude the summer film series.

As early as 5:30 p.m., you can bring beach chairs or other seats, snacks and picnics.

The Center will also have gourmet food trucks selling foods. Arrive hungry on Monday, July 13! Participating trucks will be Tri-Tip Man, Ninjas with Appetite, The Greasy Wiener and Bakery Truck

You can also arrive early for contests to win prizes that will include show tickets and various other fun items.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa. 714.556.2121

This could be the best Monday, ever. Today is National French Fry Day and it’s a day to celebrate phenomenal fries in Orange County. We consider McDonald’s fries to be the gold standard of the french fry. They’re consistently perfect, and as Mcdonald’s says best, they’re "golden on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside.” As far as local fast food eateries go, Del Taco’s crinkle-cut fries and T.K. Burgers’ seasoned fries are runner-ups and a must order.

If you’re craving french fries today, we've listed our top picks that you might not have considered before.

The A Restaurant. Of course, The A would do french fries right. Everything that comes out of Chef Jon Blackford’s kitchen is incredible. Along with your filet, or for that matter Mary’s organic chicken, ask for a side of hand-cut and twice fried bistro fries that will arrive in a cup with truffle aioli and thyme. You’ll be happy you did. 3334 West Coast Hwy. in Newport Beach. 949.650.6505.

Bruxie. We LOVE the super crispy waffle-cut fries the good folks at Bruxie serve along with their waffle sandwiches. If you really want a treat, try them in the restaurant's Irish Nachos, in which fries are topped with Bruxie Cheese Sauce, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Sour Cream and Chives. To. Die. For. Six Orange County Bruxie locations found here.

Five Crowns and SideDoor. These sister-restaurants (under the same roof) do carbs right. It’s impossible to pass up on Five Crowns’ Stilton mashed potatoes and Yorkshire pudding, but you can also indulge in their perfect french fries with aoli, or truffle fries and best of all, SideDoor’s prime rib chili cheese fries. 3801 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar.

Gulfstream. It takes a lot of discipline to pass up on an order of Gulfstream’s shoestring french fries—crispy, crunchy and addictive.  Thankfully, the generous portion makes them ideal for sharing. 850 Avocado Ave. in Newport Beach. 949.718.0188.

LUCCA. Chef Cathy's hand-torn fries are great for sharing because no two pieces are the same and those who like crispy fries and those who like fat fries, can find what they're looking for in a single serving. These are served alongside her housemade ketchup, which puts Heinz to shame. 6507 Quail Hill Parkway, Quail Hill Shopping Center in Irvine. 949.725.1773.

Haute Cakes Caffe.  Up until now, you may have thought of Haute Cakes as one of the best places in Newport Beach for breakfast and lunch, but it’s also a great find for french fries. Try an order of light and crispy, slightly sweet but savory rosemary sea salt Haute Cakes french fries (pictured above)—they are delicious. 1807 Westcliff Drive in Newport Beach. 949.642.4114.

Haven Gastropub.  Chef Daniels' "pommes frites" can be ordered on their own, but why would you when you can order Truffle Fries with house-made sel gris truffle salt and a side of garlic aioli? Even better? Order the Wagyu Beef Cheek Poutine, in which Haven's fries are topped with red wine-rosemary gravy and cheddar cheese curds. 190 S Glassell St. in Orange. 714.221.0680.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar. When you're at The Winery, the last thing you're probably craving on Chef Yvon Goetz's menu is his french fries, but let's face it, he's French, so that means his fries are top notch! These long, thin, crisp fries are served up in a cone with choice of dipping sauces. Get them for the table to start, you won't regret it! 3131 West Coast Hwy, Newport Beach. 949.999.6622. The District, 2647 Park Ave. in Tustin. 714.258.7600.

Friends and families are invited to come out, bring a blanket and a beach chair and enjoy great local live music under the stars at OC Parks this summer season.

The OC Parks annual outdoor summer concert series returns on Thursday evenings from July 23 through August 27 with Southern California artists performing under the summer sky.

The six free concerts will take place at Salt Creek Beach, Mason Regional Park, Mile Square Regional Park, Irvine Regional Park and Craig Regional Park. All shows take place from 6 to 8 p.m., are free, with free parking and open to the public of all ages. Food trucks will be serving concertgoers at each location.

Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point will kick off this year’s free summer concert series. On Thursday, July 23, U2 replica The Joshua Tree will be performing with the progressive and classic rock tunes of Zach Churchill.

The concerts continue on to Mason Regional Park in Irvine with a free show on July 30 with folk artist Tom Freund and the local country sensation Downtown Country Club.

Next the series visits Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley on August 6. Southern California’s own Santana tribute band Savor will headline Thursday’s concert and 2014 OC Music Awards’ Best New Artist nominee, Big Monsta, will kick off the show.

Irvine Regional Park will also be hosting a free summer concert series performance the evening of August 13. Venice Beach natives and indie rock group Venice will hit the stage with soul singer Quinn Archer.

On Thursday, August 20, the series continues to the rolling hills of Craig Regional Park. Audiences will relive the magic of rock & roll with Fleetwood Mac tribute band Rumours and jam with local favorite Yukon Gold.

The final concert of the OC Parks Summer Concert Series returns to Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach. Rhythm and blues sensation Nick Waterhouse will take the stage on August 27 with pop/funk tunes of the band Melted opening the show.

All of the OC Parks Summer Concerts are part of the KROQ ‘N Surf summer series.

Finally, here's your chance to win a beautiful American-made Chilton table at Room & Board at South Coast Plaza Village.

Room & Board's "Proud to be an American" sweepstakes is happening now through Sunday, July 19. 

Their American-made Chilton table is now available in Spalted Sugarberry and features light golden tones, a distinctive grain pattern and live edge. By visiting roomandboard.com/enter-to-win you can enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win the one-of-a-kind cocktail or dining table that celebrates sustainable, American craftsmanship. 

Room & Board is at Regency South Coast Village is at 1661 W Sunflower Ave. in Santa Ana. 714.549.5995

We’re deep into a not-long-enough Southern California summer and there’s no time like the present to enjoy real OC living, especially when it’s at SOCO Collection. This summer, in addition to savory meals, sweet treats, and premier shopping for you and your home, OC’s destination for inspiration is offering a line-up of fun events to keep you entertained all season long.

Read on to learn more about what’s coming soon to SOCO!

Since summer is the perfect time to dine alfresco, head to SOCO to enjoy fine dining on our beautiful open-air patios and courtyards. Spend your Sunday enjoying Taco Maria’s brunch menu and refreshing mimosas, or experience a taste of Paris with a crepe and croque-monseiur from Bistro Papillote.

For last minute get-togethers and family dinners, stop by Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop for nutritious sandwiches and salads, all available for takeout, or Surfas Culinary District or The Cheese Shop for the ingredients for easy entertaining. Of course, you won't want to forget to pick up your favorite vino at LCA Wine!

And if you’re looking for a new spot for date night, you can do no better than Pueblo or ARC Food and Libations. Their patios are the perfect, romantic setting for any occasion.

If you'd rather celebrate summer from the comfort of your own home, revamp your outdoor living space with furniture and home accessories from Brown Jordan, HD Buttercup or Design Within Reach. Their timeless pieces are the perfect excuse to entertain.

Summer Events at SOCO Collection

Lord of The Strings Summer Concert Series - July 19, 3 pm
On July 19, join SOCO’s LCA Wine for the latest installment of their popular Lord of The Strings summer concert series. Enjoy two-time Grammy winner, Laurence Juber. a world-renowned guitar virtuoso, composer, and arranger. During the concert, guests will sample wine selections curated by LCA Wine, and there will be the option to purchase light bites from one of SOCO’s culinary partners. Spaces are limited, so be sure to purchase your purchase your tickets online. 

Cooking By the Book at PIRCH – July
If you’re a fan of creating delicious desserts from a cookbook, but could use some extra help to make sure the steps are executed flawlessly, join the talented chefs at PIRCH from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. on July 26 as they teach recipes straight from their own cookbooks. You will enjoy reading, baking, and of course, eating popular dessert recipes from “The Pie and Pastry Bible” by Rose Levy Beranbaum and “Bake" - by Alison Thompson. The classes sell out early, so be sure to reserve your seat by stopping by the PIRCH showroom.

Summer’s Favorite Foods! 3-Day Kids Cooking Camp – July 28-30
Bring in your little chefs for 3 fun-filled days of cooking! In this hands-on class at Surfas Culinary District, instructors will teach your little ones how to make quesadillas with homemade tortillas, chicken fingers with barbecue sauce from scratch, and ice cream with homemade cones and hot fudge. They will also learn how to follow a recipe and the importance of being safe in the kitchen. Make sure to save a seat at the table by registering

SOCO Nights – Now Screening “Chef” August 4, 5-9 pm
You’re invited to SOCO Nights, an outdoor summer movie series on the first Tuesday of every month from 5 – 9 pm at SOCO in Costa Mesa. Guests will enjoy live music in the relaxed and comfortable SOCO Courtyard and a free outdoor screening of acclaimed foodie film “Chef” courtest of Gear Co-Op.  In addition to special deals at SOCO’s award-winning restaurants, LCA Wine will offer a wine garden with proceeds benefiting Costa Mesa High School Foundation.

Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so you must RSVP! Fill up your car with family and friends, and don’t forget to BYOC (bring your own chair) for this night of fun! To RSVP, click here.

For more information about SOCO Collection and The OC Mix, visit southcoastcollection and shoptheocmix.

SOCO and The OC Mix are located just off of the 405 Freeway at 3303 Hyland Ave. in Costa Mesa.

Join the Orange County Museum of Art and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts for a fun-filled kite festival on July 19 from 2-6 p.m. The free kite festival, a part of OCMA’s My Generation: Young Chinese Artists exhibition, will take place at the museums soon-to-be home, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

Build and design your very own kite and learn how to fly it high in the sky by professional kite fliers, who will be offering up their expert advice to help your kite reach new limits.

Attendees can also enjoy Up, Up and Away’s historic, colorful kite collection that will be on display in the lobby of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

The kite festival also features caricature artist Dave Boatman, live music from Segerstrom Center’s arts teach artist Pacific Trio, a martial arts demonstration by Yulin Chinese School, and food trucks We Heart Froyo, Baby’s Badass Burgers, and Soho Taco.

The festival will come to an end with an enter-to-win drawing for extravagant kites.

The kite festival is the first event that the OCMA and the Segerstrom Center have partnered up for, as part of the My Generation: Young Chinese Artists exhibit, which concludes on October 11.

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit scfta.org.

The Bar Method, the premier barre-based workout known for its targeted and effective body sculpting exercises, just opened a new studio in Costa Mesa. The gorgeous new location includes a locker room with a shower and full amenities, a fully stocked coffee bar, and a retail area.

There's no excuse to skip a workout when you can shower before the workday or dinner out, and the natural light pouring into both the male and female locker rooms makes it an ideal place to freshen up after a fat-burning, full-body workout.

What’s so great about this hour-long workout is that it uses isometric exercises to strengthen and tone all major muscle groups, followed by stretching to elongate, lengthen and align the body. It was developed by experts to reshape muscles, burn body fat and improve posture. Students have noticed immediate results, no matter their fitness levels or experience.

It’s the third studio in Orange County from co-owners Jessica Rennison, Whitney Bania and Anika Yeager. They’ve completed their dream of building a fitness enterprise for the local community, as current clients of The Bar Method can use their membership to workout at the Newport Beach, Tustin and Costa Mesa studios.

The Bar Method Costa Mesa offers classes daily, and is offering a new client special with 30 day of unlimited classes for $100, or $39 for one week unlimited classes. 

The Bar Method Costa Mesa is at 1835 Newport Blvd. #A-106, Costa Mesa. 949.722.8825.

The Bar Method Newport Beach is at 7772 E. Coast Highway, Newport Coast 949.715.2199.

The Bar Method Tustin is at 631 E. 1st Street, Tustin 714.730.2207.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts tomorrow which means for a limited time, Nordstrom offers brand-new fall styles at low discounted prices.

Prices will go back up on Monday. Aug. 3. You can find savings for women, men, trends, kids, home, beauty exclusives, women’s clothing, women’s shoes, handbags and accessories, women’s designers.  

Nordstrom South Coast Plaza opens on July 17 from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Nordstrom Fashion Island opens on July 17 from 9 a.m.  to 9 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. ; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Nordstrom Main Place/Santa Ana opens on July 17 from 9 a.m.  to 9 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Nordstrom Irvine Spectrum opens on July 17 from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Nordstrom The Shops at Mission Viejo opens on July 17 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Nordstrom Los Cerritos Center opens on July 17 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Nordstrom Brea Mall opens on July 17 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; July 18 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The OC Fair’s 125th celebration themed “One Big Party” kicks off today at the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa until Sunday, Aug. 10 (open Wednesday-Sunday). The OC Fair brings 23 fun-filled days for the entire family with food, music, carnival rides, exhibits, and the Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre and events in The Hangar and Action Sports Arena.

As expected there will be NEW deep-fried treats such as Deep-Fried Starbucks from Bacon A-Fair; Deep Fried Slim Fast Bar and Fried Peanut Butter Pickle Dog from Chicken Charlie’s; and Deep-Fried Birthday Cake and Deep-Fried Pizza from Apple Fries.

The newest food items include Fireball Donut and Samoa Donut from Texas Donuts; Chocolate-Covered Pork Rinds and Wasabi Bacon Bombs from Bacon A-Fair; $125 Caviar Twinkie from Chicken Charlie’s; Cuban Fusion Burger from Grant’s Tasti Burgers; and Frosted Flake Chicken Fingers from Pickle O’Pete’s.

And of course, you can snack on your favorite OC Fair foods: pizza, hamburgers, corn on the cob, funnel cakes, churros, and hot dogs and corn dogs.

With 23 days of activities you can have your fill of the things to do and see. Here are our top Fair Faves during the run:

OC Brew Hee Haw, a craft beer roundup, is July 18-19 and will bring some of the best local craft beers to OC Fairgoers for three sessions of beer tastings, demonstrations and exhibits. Visit ocbrewheehaw for details and tickets. Separate ticket required.

Fairenheit 32°: Ice skating and free Ice Museum opening daily in the new Plaza Pacifica area. Ice skating is an additional fee that includes skate rentals and an hour of skating on actual ice.

Daily Culinary Demonstrations can be enjoyed for free in the OC Promenade throughout the run of Fair. Featured demonstrators include Blackmarket Bakery, Chef Ray Duey (food sculptor), Chef Ernest Miller (food preservation and beer making), Greggy Soriano (cake decorator) and Shaile’s Edible Art (sugar art.)

Cakeology& SIP. In the new Cakeology exhibit, learn the origins and history of cake from baking to decorating. This creative and interactive exhibit will offer the essentials of cake-making with fun historical facts. The new SIP – Raise Your Spirits Exhibit looks at the history of alcoholic beverage and barware from punch to cocktails. Gabrielle Dion and her staff from The Mixing Glass will show tips and tricks on craft cocktails during daily demonstrations.

Centennial Farms Exhibits, the year-round, four-acre farm highlights California’s rich agricultural heritage with more than 30 different crops growing, as well as farm animals includes cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, rabbits, poultry and a Watusi. Expect one or more of the sows to give birth to a litter of piglets. And there will be daily cow milking demonstrations held in the Millennium Barn as well as an Interactive Milking Exhibit.

The Fair is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Visit ocfair.com/2015 for a full listing of each day’s offerings.

The OC Fair & Event Center is off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, visit ocfair.com. 714.708.1500.

The Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre at the 2015 OC Fair features 24 nights of country, pop, reggae, classic rock and comedy offering concertgoers a variety of entertainment options to select from this summer.  Concert tickets include free OC Fair admission for the same day

Gabriel Iglesias on Friday, July 17, 8:15 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50;Iration / Common Kings on Saturday, July 18, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $24.50; Willie Nelson & Family and Alison Krauss & Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas on Sunday, July 19, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $40; Charli XCX / Bleachers on Wednesday, July 22, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25; The Band Perry / Annie McQueen on Thursday, July 23, 7:45 p.m. Tickets start at $34.50; Steve Miller Band  on Friday, July 24, 8:15 p.m. Tickets start at $29.50; Capital Cities / Big Data on Saturday, July 25, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $28.50; The Happy Together Tour   Sunday, July 26, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $19.50; Spandau Ballet / DJ Richard Blade on Wednesday, July 29, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $32.50.

The Offspring / The Interrupters on Thursday, July 30, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50. Three Dog Night / Jefferson Starship on Friday, July 31, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $17.50. The Fab Four / Wings Band on Saturday, August 1, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $17.50; Huey Lewis and The News on Sunday, August 2, 8:15 p.m. Tickets start at $19.50; Juanes on
Wednesday, August 5, 8:15 p.m. Tickets start at $32.50; Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo – 35th Anniversary / Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx on Saturday, August 6, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $31.50; Echo & The Bunnymen / Berlin on Friday, August 7, 7:45 p.m. Tickets start at $23.50.

Fifth Harmony / Debby Ryan & The Never Ending / Bea Miller / Natalie La Rose on Thursday, August 8, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $24.50; Dirty Heads & Magic! on Sunday, August 9, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $29.50; Deep Purple / Foghat on Wednesday, August 12, 7:15 p.m. Tickets start at $22.50; Chris Young / Danielle Bradbery on Thursday, August 13, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $34.50; The B-52s / The English Beat on Friday, August 14, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $29.50; Steel Pulse / The Wailers on Saturday, August 15, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $22.50; Austin Mahone / Kalin and Myles on Sunday, August 16, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $32.50.

In celebration of Five Crowns' 50th anniversary, the landmark restaurant in Corona del Mar is changing it up by introducing a modern sensory experience unlike any other local eatery.

Dinner in Five Parts is a new dining experience that introduces a collaboration between LA's modernized classical music ensemble wild Up, the creative producers of Santa Ana Sites and the Five Crowns culinary team. Their first Dinner in Five Parts will take place on Wednesday, July 29 at 7 p.m. in the outdoor garden of Five Crowns. 

You can enjoy a live musical performance curated with a five-course dinner and wine pairings at $149 per person. It will be an unforgettable dining and musical experience. 

Reservations required by calling 949.760.0331.

Five Crowns is at 3801 East Coast Hwy. in Corona Del Mar.

You can join a wine tasting party on Monday, July 27 at 6 p.m. at Hanna’s Steakhouse in Rancho Santa Margarita in support of Haitian children living with type 1 diabetes.  A world-renowned endocrinologist Francine Kaufman, M.D., and her husband, Neal Kaufman, M.D. are raising funds for a diabetes camp for children with type 1 diabetes in poverty-stricken Haiti.

This camp allows the Kaufmans, and their partners in Haiti, to educate and support children so that they can have a fighting chance with their diabetes.

Through this wine fundraiser even more children will be able to attend camp and the doctors can continue to educate as many of these children and their parents so that they can survive (and sometimes even thrive) despite having this life-threatening disease.

Enjoy some fine wines, hors d’oeuvres and listen to Dr. Kaufman discuss this special program. The cost is $100 per person. You can RSVP here.

Hanna’s Steakhouse is at 22195 El Paseo in Rancho Santa Margarita. 949.709.2300.

The Union Market at The District in Tustin is the newest hot spot in Orange County for gourmet foods, coffee, cocktails, artisan shopping and a great place to meet friends especially ones who love to indulge in sweet cups made out of chocolate chip cookies and housemade cream at The Dirty Cookie, or enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine after work at the classy and upscale, Central Bar.

Under one roof in a classic, contemporary setting with vintage aspects such as the history of Tustin in Woodsnap photos throughout the space you can drink, dine and shop from Union Market’s exciting array of vendors and look forward to new shops and eateries arriving soon. 

The collection at Union Market includes Orange County’s original artisan coffeehouse, Portola Coffee Lab that takes the art of coffee to new levels by not only hand-selecting beans, roasting, but introducing us to different brewing styles for coffees.

Kettlebar, a Southern-infused steam kettle cooking eatery is the place to find traditional Southern specialties such as seafood pan roasts, bouillabaisse, jambalaya, gumbo, clams and oysters on the half shell, etouffee and po’boys.

The Central Bar, is getting rave reviews for serving some of the best cocktails in OC! It’s known for its craft cocktails, exceptional wines, reasonable prices, and chic vibe. Grab a seat and let the bartenders pour you a specialty cocktail that could be a Matcha Green Tree cocktail, a collaboration with Portola Coffee; an Espresso Yourself cocktail, a collaboration with Torch S’Mores or a Sunday Funday: The Flight of the Fancy made with Uncle Val’s Gin, Cocchi Americano, Crème de Violette, Bertina, vanilla and fresh blackberry syrup on the rim.

At The Kroft you can savor comfort foods made from scratch such as market-inspired sandwiches and poutines made from hand-cut potatoes, double fried to perfection, and piled with fresh cheese curds, homemade gravies and signature toppings.

You can find flowers, spices and salts at Spice and Tulips; shop for gourmet foods items from local farmers at Farmers; print your fave photos on wood at Woodsnap; find great boho chic apparel at Luella; pick up some hand poured and natural soy candles at Artisan Candle Shop; buy sweet gifts and apparel for babies and kids at The Treehouse Shop; or find curated jewelry and unique finds such nail lacquer and ceramics at The Shangri-LA.

For those with major sweet tooths, you’ve come to the right place! You can enjoy a gourmet, handmade popsicle at Front Porch Pops; or create your own childhood fave treat at Torch S’more Co. with their handcrafted mallows grahams and chocolates; the Crepe Coop is a sensation at the Anaheim Packing District and now you can enjoy their sweet and savory crepes like you’ve never had before at Union Market, too.  Go for the OG! with bananas, strawberries, Nutella, whipped cream, slivered almonds, and vanilla bean gelato. The Dirty Cookie just revolutionized the way we eat cookies and cream. Now, you can enjoy a cookie shot, a shot glass-shaped cookie filled with housemade flavored cream, as well as a variety of other delicious baked goods.

Coming soon to Union Market: Belage Gourmet for sandwiches and bakery items; Market 2 Plate for pasta and salads; Cubed for poke; Youngstone Cheese for grilled cheese, fondue, and cheese platters; The Hatch for gourmet sliders, craft beer, and a tiki bar; Churned Creamery for ice cream; and the The OC Hit Factory, a music studio, music producer and radio station.

2493 Park Avenue in Tustin.

The LA based hot dog concept that's blowing up, Dog Haus is officially opening its second OC location on Saturday, July 25 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. in Fullerton. (There’s also a Santa Ana location and many more opening soon in OC.). To celebrate the grand opening, franchisee Ryan Welch will be offering free Haus dogs to everyone who stops by on opening day.  Dog Haus, is known for its gourmet hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and one-of-a-kind creations.

Guests can enjoy a free Haus Dog from a selection of Dog Haus’s classic all-natural beef skinless dog served up on grilled King's Hawaiian Rolls. Options will include fan favorites like the Sooo Cali with arugula, tomato, crispy onions, spicy basil aioli and avocado; the Downtown featuring a smoked bacon wrapped dog topped with caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, mayo, mustard, and ketchup; or The Cowboy with white American cheese, smoked bacon, bbq sauce, and crispy onions.

You can also order fare from Dog Haus' full menu, with offerings that include gourmet sausages, burgers, corn dogs, sides, and shakes. Other Haus items include The Fonz with a spicy Italian sausage with pastrami and melted mozzarella; while the Das Brat features a bratwurst with caramelized onions, sauerkraut, white American cheese, and whole grain mustard aioli. Haus Burgers are also a huge hit and include the The Freiburger (pictured above) with white American cheese, a fried egg, haus slaw, fries and mayo; to the Holy Aioli with white American cheese, caramelized onions, smoked bacon, and garlic aioli.  

Lighter eaters and kids can indulge in smaller-sized portions – the Dog slider is made with an all-natural beef, all-natural mini dog, haus-made cheese sauce, shredded cheddar and bacon; the Burger slider has caramelized onions, white American cheese, and mayo; while the Corn Dog slider features an all-beef mini dog dipped in haus-made root beer batter.

You’ll definitely want to try Chili Cheese Tots or Fries with haus-made cheese sauce, cheddar, haus chili, and diced onions; beer-battered Onion Rings; and Sweet Potato Fries.  And for dessert, try a Fosselman’s premium ice cream milkshake.

To complement the menu offerings, diners will soon be able to enjoy a can of red, white, or bubbly wine or imbibe from the craft beer selection. The iPourit self-serve beer system will boast local brews on draft or diners can enjoy craft beer in a can served up in Dog Haus koozies – just like at back yard BBQs. 

Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Dog Haus is at 2555 E. Chapman Ave. in Fullerton. 714.213.8265.

Dog Haus is also at 2800 N. Main St. in Santa Ana. 714.953.4287.

The next time you fly in and out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) you can look forward to dining at two OC original restaurants. The award-winning SeaLegs Wine Bar in Huntington Beach and Slapfish with its flagship location in Huntington Beach (as well as multiple locations), just opened to a global audience at the Los Angeles International Airport, Terminal 2.

Now travelers can enjoy a respite from the hustle and bustle of the airport at SeaLegs Wine Bar LAX with highly rated wine offerings selected by owner Alicia Whitney, as well as craft beer selections, craft cocktails and a California-inspired, award-winning shared-plates menu from SeaLegs’ Executive Chef Alexander Dale in a Hamptons-inspired restaurant setting.

Also, for the first time at an airport, 13 wine lockers are available for airport visitors to store their favorite wines.

SeaLegs Wine Bar LAX is adorned with jewels and chandelier lighting, and features a luxurious, large wine cellar display with a square bar and a sophisticated lounge.

Los Angeles International Airport is at 1 World Way in Los Angeles.

SeaLegs Wine Bar is also at 21022 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach. 714.536.5700.

Huntington Beach-based Slapfish, a modern seafood shack just opened a new fast casual eatery at Los Angeles International Airport, Terminal 2 that offers a limited menu of its hits including lobster rolls; fish tacos served either grilled or crispy with corn tortilla, cabbage, avocado puree and pickled onion; original chowder fries smothered in creamy clam chowder and bacon; and fish and chips, grilled or fried and served with made from scratch tartar sauce and fries.

Executive chef/owner Andrew Gruel is committed to improving the way diners eat at fast casual restaurants by focusing on fresh, sustainable seafood. The brand’s seafood supply line comes directly from fishermen and it’s 100% sustainable thanks to a partnership with Aquarium of the Pacific’s Seafood for the Future program.

The fifth Slapfish location will open Tuesday, July 28 at 11 a.m. at University Center at 4249 Campus Drive in Irvine.  Stop by early, Chef Andrew Gruel will be offering FREE lobster rolls to the first 100 guests.

Slapfish is at 19696 Beach Blvd. in Huntington Beach. 714.963.3900.
Slapfish is at 2727 Newport Boulevard. 949.723.0034.
Slapfish is at 211 Broadway in Laguna Beach. 949.715.0464.

Los Angeles International Airport is at 1 World Way in Los Angeles.

Get ready for two glorious pork-filled days when the Queen Mary welcomes back the annual Big Bite Bacon Fest on Aug 1-2 with non-stop bacon, beer and pork-inspired entertainment.

Local restaurants and chefs will offer sweet and savory samples of pork delicacies to show off their culinary skills. Festivalgoers can also enjoy their favorite pork cuisine with craft beer samples from multiple local brew houses.

You can look forward to tasking samples from the winner of the 2014 People’s Choice for Best Bacon Award, Bigmista’s BBQ, as well as chefs from favorite local hotspots including Red Leprechaun and Rajin Cajun Café.

Rick Garcia of Dia De Los Puercos created the Hog Pocket for BBBF and is back with his new associate chef, Chef Isaiah, 16, who has worked in his family restaurants for many years and is the youngest chef at BBBF.  He co-owns the FryFry Truck and will offer a sampling of bacon poutine style fries. Chef Bev Lazo was featured on Food Network's "Best Thing I've Ever Made" and for the Bacon Fest she's working on perfecting a Bacon Kim Chee fried rice and Bacon topped gazpacho.

Other star chefs participating include Ricardo Heredia, Winner of the World Bacon Title and World Food Championships, and Jodi Taffel, deemed “The Bacon Babe” will go toe to toe with the best bacon treats their kitchens can turn out. More bacon treats will come from Slater’s 50/50, Stuffin’it Burger Truck, Sweet Lou’s BBQ Truck, OC Donut Bar, Chunk N’ Chip, Twisted Sweets, Hula’s Hawaiian, and Whole Foods.

The Big Bite Bacon Fest will offer a choice of a daytime or evening tasting session on Saturday, Aug. 1 and one daytime tasting session on Sunday, Aug. 2. VIP bacon lovers will gain entry to the event one hour prior to all other guests, have access to the exclusive VIP bacon lounge, and receive a souvenir cup, beer caddy and opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the Queen Mary ship. Special Bacon Lovers packages are also available.

Tickets for the Big Bite Bacon Fest start at just $35 online for general admission. For more information about and to purchase tickets visit bigbiteevents.com.

The Queen Mary is located at 1126 Queens Highway in Long Beach.

​Big Bite Bacon Fest Giveaway

We are giving away a pair of general admission tickets to the Big Bite Bacon Fest. Simply leave a comment on our Facebook page. The tickets are good for three hours of bacon and pork nirvana with dozens of local restaurants, chefs and vendors providing tastes. Pork inspired entertainment from bands to lawn games including access aboard the majestic Queen Mary for self-guided tour.

For longtime fans of Chef Rick Garcia’s popular food truck, Dia De Los Puercos, which is currently on hiatus while he’s working on a project to be announced soon and especially for those who attended last year’s Del Mar Bacon Fest, you’ll remember his Hog Pocket that was a huge hit with bacon fans.

The Hog Pocket is back this year; it’s an empanada stuffed with peanut butter, grape jelly and bacon, then battered and fried, rolled in churro dust, with condensed milk and more bacon on top. Chef Garcia and his team that includes chef Isaiah who at 16 years old is one of the most impressive chefs—driven and motivated at such a young age—will be making 4,500 portions for the Bacon Fest.

Garcia credits his culinary education at Cordon Bleu in Pasadena as well as his 7 year experience as an executive chef at Hilton Hotels and other restaurant work for his love of learning all aspects of working in the kitchen and looks forward to watching chef Isaiah’s blossoming career. Isaiah works 12-hour days on his business, the FryFry Truck  and never complains. “He is a sponge, appreciative, respectful and goal oriented,” Garcia said. 

Garcia is thrilled to be participating in this year’s Big Bite Bacon Fest. He says that watching the reaction from people who taste his food is the most rewarding aspect. “People enjoying the food that I’ve created and giving feedback is so exciting to me, even if it’s constructive criticism,” Garcia said. “I can take it.”

“Bacon should be its own food group,” Garcia said. “It’s a universal product that can be used in so many different dishes—smoke it, slice it, wrap it, stuff it. I can’t wait to see all of the other interesting dishes that come out of the sessions.”

Chef Bev Lazo who is currently the executive chef at the Wine Lab at the Camp in Costa Mesa where she’s offering an extraordinary menu of tapas and small plates such The Vizzini, with toasted OC Baking Company bread, almond butter, apricot jam, and speck, served with kettle chips, and cornichons; and her version of the Cubano, the Panini Babaluwith roasted pork, jamon serrano, house made relish, wholegrain mustard, and camembert cheese on a buttery toasted baguette, served with kettle chips will also be a featured chef at the Big Bite Bacon Fest.

Her food is comforting, influenced by the Philippines and for the Big Bite Bacon Fest she’s preparing Bacon Kim Chee fried rice and Bacon topped gazpacho. It’s a Southeast Asian fusion dish with jasmine rice, scrambled eggs, Filipino soy sauce, and she’s even making her own smoked honey sriracha bacon that she will brine for ten days, and at the end she’ll add chicharrón.

She’s no stranger to competition as she was also a contestant on “Hell’s Kitchen” and says it’s all about having fun and tasting good foods. She credits her hands-on training at Long Beach City College’s culinary school where she learned every last detail of working in a kitchen.

 “I love bacon—it just goes great in all dishes, it’s comforting and the when it’s cooking the smell just hits you, “ Lazo said. “I’m really looking forward to seeing the great chefs and Bacon Mania, Chunk N’ Chip, Slater’s and tasting the foods.”

 You can look out for her Lazo, Garcia and Isaiah and taste their great bacon treats on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1-2 at the Big Bite Bacon Fest.

On Tuesday, July 28 it's National Lasagna Day and BRIO Tuscan Grille at Irvine Spectrum will be celebrating all day by offering its signature Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno at half the regular price.

Brio's delicous lasagna with Bolognese meat sauce, alfredo, ricotta, and mozzarella is not to be missed---it's that good!

Brio Tuscan Grill specializes in delicious northern Italian cuisine with an emphasis on the finest and freshest ingredients available. It offers a wide variety of award-winning dishes including grilled and oven-roasted steaks, fresh seafood, made-to-order pastas, bruschettas and flatbreads.

Offer is valid on full portions of lasagna on Tuesday, July 28, while supplies last (not available for takeout orders). Promotion does not apply to catering and children’s menus.

Open daily 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight. 

BRIO Tuscan Grille (near Nordstrom) is at the Irvine Spectrum Center at 618 Fortune Drive in Irvine. 949.341.0380.

All day long today, Ruby’s Diner will celebrate the 93^rd birthday of the chain’s namesake, Ruby Cavanaugh by offering the popular Ruby burger and fries for $1.93.

This offer is good from 11:30 a.m. to closing at all Ruby’s locations (except LAX and the Shake Shack).

The classic RubyBurger is a juicy premium USDA choice beef burger topped with crisp iceberg lettuce, fresh tomato, a choice of double-thick American, Swiss, cheddar, bleu, pepper jack or low-fat American cheese and RubySauce, served on a grilled gourmet RubyBun.

In Orange County, Ruby’s Diner’s locations are in Balboa, Corona del Mar, Costa Mesa, Newport Coast, John Wayne Airport, South Coast Plaza, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Irvine Spectrum, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Tustin, Orange, Mission Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Anaheim, and Yorba Linda.

Looking for better laser treatment options for your skin? We recently discovered Orange Coast Laser Specialists at Hoag Hospital Irvine that utilizes an all-new laser treatment for facial resurfacing and rejuvenation called PicoSure Laser by Cynosure.

PicoSure penetrates the skin in one-trillionth of a second without using thermal energy to create collagen regeneration naturally - this dramatically improves overall elasticity and can remove fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and acne scars in as little as three treatments.

The beauty in this laser treatment (and we tried it firsthand for tattoo removal, too) is that there is no downtime, unlike many laser treatments. You can also read about other benefits here, too.

PicoSure is truly the gold standard for facial laser treatments and has only been introduced by a few doctors in OC.

Currently, PicoSure is also the best, most effective and cost-effective laser on the market for tattoo removal. With OCLS, you can experience minimal redness for about an hour following your treatment. PicoSure will remove your tattoo in as little as three sessions without pain, scarring and pigmentation.

OCLS was founded in 2014 by Dr. Robert M. Pettis, a highly trained medical professional who often uses advanced laser treatment in the surgery room and recognized a void in the market for better laser tattoo removal and skin resurfacing treatments.

As a special offer for Greer’s OC subscribers, you will receive the first tattoo removal session free if you buy a package or 25% off the entire laser facial package. Simply mention Greer’s OC while scheduling your treatment.

For more information, visit OCLS, or call 949.715.0500.     

Orange County Laser Specialists is at Hoag Hospital Irvine is at 16100 Sand Canyon Avenue #310 in Irvine.

Refreshing lemonades, perfectly prepared salads, hearty braised meats, delicious sandwiches, fresh soups and decadent desserts are the standards for all Lemonade locations. And now, fans of Lemonade at Fashion Island can enjoy a new Lemonade in Orange County, at Irvine’s Park Place complex at the corner of Michelson and Jamboree.  

The seasonally inspired California comfort food eatery offers a cafeteria-style setting where you can simply grab a tray and chose from a colorful variety dishes.

Lemonade focuses on delicious and healthy plates, as well as an assortment of fresh vegetables. The new summer menu includes: citrus poached salmon and summer squash, basil; and arugula, fig, blue cheese, sherry vinaigrette; and roasted beets, melon, frisée, and hazelnuts.

Globally inspired, slow-cooked braises meat offerings including lemongrass chicken and red miso beef short ribs. The signature seasonal selection of refreshing lemonade flavors include cucumber mint and watermelon rosemary. 

Lemonade Irvine features a massive landmark lemon sculpture created by award-winning designer Ilan Dei. There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating in a bright, modern setting, as well as complimentary outdoor and covered parking.

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

2967 Michelson Drive (corner of Michelson and Jamboree at Park Place) in Irvine. 949.251.1560.

Wine lovers can enjoy a festive summer evening of wine tasting under the stars to benefit Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire at Wines and Wishes at Kaleidoscope Center in Mission Viejo tonight from 6 to 9 p.m.

The fifth annual wine tasting will feature nearly 20 boutique and renowned wineries including Justin Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars and Rombauer Vineyards, along with bites from Kaleidoscope’s award winning restaurants, live jazz, raffles and more.

Wines and Wishes kicks off with a Champagne reception at 6 p.m. with a commemorative wine glass upon arrival. Small bites will be offered throughout the evening starting with specialty cheeses served by Chef Starr Cornwall. Riptide Rockin’ Sushi & Teppan Grills will be center stage as Master Sushi Chef Ken Cruz prepares freshly made sushi, while other Kaleidoscope restaurants tray pass small bites for all to enjoy. Donna B’s Bakery will also be providing sweet treats.

A special VIP experience is also offered, where guests can enjoy their wine tasting with a private Sommelier in reserved seating, artisanal cheese and fresh fruit, and a swag bag. Tickets are limited for the VIP experience.

Tickets cost $$60 per person at the door. Limited tickets are available for the VIP experience at $75 per person. Designated driver discount tickets are $25 per person. 

Kaleidoscope is at 27741 Crown Valley Parkway in Mission Viejo. The center has convenient self-parking, as well as a valet available.

Thanks to the good people behind The Dirty Cookie, starting today at 6 p.m. at the Union Market at the District in Tustin you can get a cookie in the shape of a glass filled with milk!

Chef/entrepreneurs, Shahira Marei and Sally Elgamil are opening The Dirty Cookie where you can taste their dessert sensation: a shot glass-shaped cookie filled with housemade flavored cream such as chocolate, vanilla and classic milk. The first 75 people to take a picture at the store and tag #TheDirtyCookie will get a cookie shot on the house!

The Dirty Cookie team worked with a local engineering firm to design and develop the design and molds for the cookie shots. You can fill your own cookie shots at the eatery from a dispenser that keeps the custom creams ice-cold and fresh, and adds a fun self-serve element to The Dirty Cookie experience.

The Dirty Cookie offers delicious cookies including chocolate chip, red velvet, and cookies & cream, accented with chocolate and vanilla creams (among other flavors) as well as a variety of other delicious baked goods.

2493 Park Avenue in Tustin. 949.324.1574.

The Halal Guys, New York’s food cart with a cult following, are expanding from New York to its first West Coast brick-and-mortar fast casual location in Costa Mesa. The famed food cart is known for its gyro sandwiches, chicken-and-rice platters and delicious mystery white sauce.

The NYC-based concept signed a deal with Fransmart known for building other popular concepts such as Five Guys, to bring 50 franchised units to Southern California. The first location will open mid September at 3033 Bristol Street in Costa Mesa.

The Halal Guys grew from a modest food cart on the streets of New York City to a globally recognized American Halal street food.

The Manhattan-based landmark was created by Mohamed Abouelenein, Ahmed Elsaka and Abdelbaset Elsayed of Egypt who recognized that many Muslim cab drivers in New York wanted a place to buy Middle Eastern street foods, so they created their first food cart and quickly became a destination for American Halal fare.

It’s been ranked the most popular food truck on FourSquare and the third most Yelped restaurant last year in the United States.

For updates on the Southern California locations follow them on Facebook and Instagram.  

Back to school shopping just got easier at Lulu Too Boutique on East 17th Street in Costa Mesa! For the first time, lulu too now has little lulu, a girls line for sassy gals ages 4-14. Prices range from $5 bows to $29 dresses, and lots of fun things in between!

Lulu too boutique hosts events such as spray tans, book signings, concerts, art shows, trunk shows, Champagne Fridays and bunko nights! It’s an affordable and stylish boutique that's main purpose is to make all women who walk through the door feel welcomed and beautiful.

Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Lulu Too is at 333 E. 17th St. (Behind Pancakes R Us) in Costa Mesa. 949.232.8354.

Irvine native Victoria Namkung’s debut novel, “The Things We Tell Ourselves” was just released and it’s a juicy beach read that's part-untraditional love story, part-psychological thriller. There are several scenes set in Laguna Beach (the protagonist is a grad of UC Irvine) and you can meet Namkung and attend a book signing at Environment Furniture at SOCO in Costa Mesa on Sunday, Aug. 9 from 5-7 p.m.

Namkung’s novel focuses on the damage that one generation can inflict on the next and the things we tell ourselves to justify our desires and compromises.

Before focusing on writing fiction, Namkung was a widely published fashion, celebrity, and lifestyle journalist for more than a decade. Her work can be found in the LA Times, Style.com, C magazine, USA Today, InStyle, and Los Angeles Confidential among others. She currently writes essays, blogs for the Huffington Post, and serves as a cultural commentator.

The complimentary event will take place at Environment at SOCO Collection, 3315 Hyland Ave., Suite F, Costa Mesa.

Books will be available on-site for purchase and light bites will be provided. To attend the book signing, RSVP to hello@standardtimepress.com.