Your Next Bite

Your Next Bite Celebrates 8 Years with Top 8 Bites

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This past week Your Next Bite celebrated 8 years of blogging the best of what I ate – from fine dining to food trucks across Los Angeles, Orange County, and wherever the hand model & I traveled.

So to commemorate the occasion, here's a list of the Top 8 Bites from each year.

The Grubdown:

2010 - Cobras & Matadors, sadly no longer in Los Angeles and quite possibly my favorite restaurant of all time

- last meal on earth good, Bacon Wrapped Dates with Blue Cheese, Almonds & Port Wine on a bed of Proscuitto $10

2011 - D'Amores Pizza, Los Angeles

- thin 'n juicy, cheesy 'n spicy, runs down your chin in a good way, Large Pepperoni Neopolitan Thin-style Crust Pizza $21.95

2012 - Loteria Grill, Los Angeles' Original Farmers Market

- must order, savory, succulent shredded meat that's juicy in every bite, Carne Deshebrada Tacos with Fresh Guacamole, Salsa Chipotle, and finely Chopped White Onion & Cilantro

2013 - Juliette Kitchen & Bar, Newport Beach, Orange County

- genius, healthy whole grain substitute for arborio rice, milky smooth, soft 'n creamy, just needed a touch more cheese, Farro Risotto with Baby Squash, Trumpet Mushrooms, Swiss Chard, Tomatoes & Herbs $11

2014 - Haute Cakes Caffe, Costa Mesa, Orange County

- bursting with citrus zest, warm 'n fluffy, Orange Ricotta Haute Cakes topped with Mixed Berries $10.50

2015 - Mercado, Santa Monica, Los Angeles County

- hits the spot, velvety 'n spicy with a red salsa that perfectly complements adding acid & smoke, Choriqueso Dip with Melted Cotija, Parmesan, Oaxaca Cheese, House Chorizo, Poblanos, Mushrooms & Fresh Chips $7

2016 - Vaca, Costa Mesa, Orange County

- the best thing on the menu, authentic, creamy, smokey 'n sweet, La Bola crispy Potato Balls with Ground Beef, Aioli & Spicy Tomato Sauce $9

2017 - Mr. G's Bistro, Balboa Island, Orange County

- melts in your mouth, very rich, Tagliatelle with Lump Crab, Sea Urchin, Calabrian Chili, Lemon & Pecorino $28

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I'm not surprised that half the dishes I liked best were upscale Mexican and Spanish Tapas, especially living in Southern California.

What will be the best dish of 2018? I guess you'll have to wait and see.

Bon Appetit!

Where to Eat for Newport Beach Restaurant Week

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A New Year is here and another Newport Beach Restaurant Week has begun. Whether you're coming off a cleanse or still enjoying the holiday stretchy pants, I've got a healthy selection for everyone.

From now until January 28th, you can enjoy 2 & 3-course prix-fixe Lunches and Dinners, ranging from $10-$50.

Here's a few of the best bites from A's to Zinque.

The Grubdown:

A's Restaurant – 3-course Dinner for $50

creamy 'n silky smooth, earthy with sweet 'n sour notes, Duck Liver Pate with Cinnamon Applesauce, Curried Mustard Yellow Raisins, Rhubarb, Grand Marnier Gelee & Grilled Bread

Cucina Enoteca – 2-course Lunch for $20

this appetizer is a meal in itself, fluffy, tangy 'n sweet, Creamy Mascarpone Polenta Board with Chef's Whim Ragu (mine was Lamb)

Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens – 4-course Dinner for $50

curried cauliflower is the star, while succotash is bland, Farmhouse Vegetable Plate with White Beans & Greens, Curried Cauliflower Cous Cous, Lemon Mint Yogurt, Grilled Corn, Peppers, Red Onions, Squash & Farro, Grilled Peach Chutney (not featured on prix-fixe)

Cafe Gratitude – 3-course Lunch for $20

sweet spice, robust and filling, Humble Indian Red Lentil Dal with Spinach, Roasted Garnet Yams, Coconut Mint Jam, Spicy Tomato Jam, Brown Rice & Quinoa

Waterline at Balboa Bay Resort – 3-course Dinner for $50

all the right textures and flavors, Braised Beef Short Rib with creamy Polenta, Tuscan Kale, Thumbelina Carrots & Braising Jus 

Zinque – 2-course Lunch for $20

pure greens with a spicy kick, Broccoli, Spinach & Green Curry Soup

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Bon Appetit!

The Top 10 Best Bites of 2017

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As we ring in the New Year, it's time to reflect on the Best Bites of 2017.

From Classic American Comfort food to Spanish Tapas and Liquid Nitrogen Dessert, here's where to get Your Next Bite from LA to OC, listed alphabetically.

The Grubdown:

Captain Jack's – Historic & Nautical Prime Rib & Seafood

- sweet 'n succulent, didn't need the extra butter, Alaskan Red King Crab Legs 20 oz. (Market Price)

Cauldron's Ice Cream – Sweet Cream and Liquid Nitrogen Dessert

- everything you ever wanted in one, The Cauldron Ice Cream Puffle with Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream, Oreo Cookie & Thin Mint crumbles on a warm, soft & pillowy Waffle Cone $6.25

Crocker's – Hot Dog Spot

- sweet 'n sour, plump with soft bun, Balboa Bratwurst with Spicy Mustard, Warm Kraut & Potato Bun $9 (PicturedTop Left)

Good Measure – Wine Bar

- a vegan or anyone-for-that-matter's dream, nutty with the right acidity, Roasted Baby Carrots & Sunchokes with Carrot Top Salsa Verde & Pistachios $9

The Hobbit – Family owned, Formal Dining

- juicy tender, reminiscent of Thanksgiving, Grilled Stuffed Quail with White Quinoa & Indian Spiced Apricot Chutney

Jimmy's Famous American Tavern – Classic American Comfort Food

- what they're known for, crispy buttery crunchy, Southern Fried Chicken with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Thyme Gravy & Green Beans $19

Manchego – Spanish Tapas

- divine, tart 'n sweet, Jamon Wrapped Dates with Spanish Goat Cheese, Microgreens, and Pomegranate Seeds $10

Mr. G's Bistro – California & Italian-Inspired Cuisine

- melts in your mouth, very rich, Tagliatelle with Lump Crab, Sea Urchin, Calabrian Chili, Lemon & Pecorino $28

WaterGrill – Raw Oyster Bar & Seafood Spot

- velvety, buttery, melts in your mouth, Wild Ross Sea Chilean Sea Bass with Cauliflower Puree, Lemon Chutney, Hazelnuts & Brown Butter $45

Zinque – French Cuisine

- pure greens with a spicy kick, Broccoli, Spinach & Green Curry Soup $9

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Happy New Year!

 

 

 

The Best of OC Weekly's Summerfest 2017

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This past weekend was the 5th annual OC Weekly Summerfest 2017. It's hard to believe it was my first time attending, being that it's held at one of my favorite venues, the Newport Dunes in Newport Beach.

It's a great place, perched on the bay overlooking paddle-boarders, swimmers, and oversized inflatable water slide launcher-off-ers.

The event took place on Saturday from 1pm to 5pm. The hand model and I were debating whether or not to get the VIP Package ($50 per person, which included a Shrub Tasting Garden overlooking the bay and tons of Farm-to-Table bites from local restaurants), or the General Admission Ticket ($35 per person, which was in the parking lot with food truck vendors at $5 each).

This was a no brainer. VIP all the way!

The Grubdown:

Restauration, Long Beach

- my favorite of the 'fest, sweet salty 'n umami all in one bite, Salted Doughnut with Oxtail Jam & Black Garlic Salsify Puree

The Water Brewery, Costa Mesa

- second best for surprisingly flavorful 'n delish vegetarian dish, White Bean Summer Chili with Squash, Tomato, Green Onion, Cornbread, and Greek Yogurt

True Food Kitchen, Newport Beach

- bright fresh 'n spicy, Albacore Tataki with Avocado, Jalapeno, Toasted Sesame & Yuzu Ponzu (pictured right) and their famous Tuscan Kale Salad (pictured left)

Three Seventy Common, Laguna Beach

- tender fatty crisp 'n fruity, Pork Belly with Jicama & Watermelon

L.A. Biryani, Costa Mesa

- another vegetarian dish stole the show with fresh fruit 'n spice, Chana Masala with Pomegranate Seeds, Toasted Vermicelli & Pasta (pictured left) and spicy tender Chicken Tikka (pictured right)

Side Door Pub, Corona del Mar

- smokey creamy 'n crisp, Smoked Salmon Rillette with Horseradish, Pickled Onion & Limpa Toast

Ocean & Earth, Yorba Linda

- clever faux bacon, Watermelon Skewer with Faux Bacon Slice topping

Mesa, Costa Mesa

- genius "taco" shell, Ahi Tuna with Watermelon Radish "Taco"

Fresh Brothers, Newport Beach

- a refreshing change from my usual "Da Works" order, Margherita Pizza with fresh-sliced Mozzarella, Tomatoes, Basil, Tomato Sauce & Pesto

butterleaf, Irvine

- it's all about the creamy spicy sauce, Quinoa handmade Taco with Chives, Corn, Pickled Onion & Signature Kimchi Mayo

Cucina Enoteca, Newport Beach

- loved it like a dessert, Burrata with Prosciutto, Cherry Compote & Flatbread Crisp

Bosscat Kitchen, Newport Beach

- i voted "Best Cocktail" for my favorite floral spa treatment flavors, Lavender Lemonade Shrub with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Lemon Juice, housemade Lavender Syrup, Lemongrass Tea & Soda

The Blind Rabbit, Anaheim

- i voted "Most Unique" & "Best Lookin'" because you literally tasted every flavor, Coconut Shrub with Coconut Fat Washed Titos Vodka, Pineapple Chocolate Shrub, Pineapple Juice, Lime Juice & Smoked Sea Salt

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The VIP Package definitely delivered 100% from endless complimentary cocktails to upscale farm-to-table tastings, and live bands all with a bay view.

Meanwhile, back at the General Admission parking lot, there were food trucks with fare for $5 (say that five times fast), Whiskey tastings, and farmer's market delivery vendors, as well as the star of the show, the main stage featuring bands like Pacific Dub.

And, no matter which package you chose, everyone got to take home a complimentary goodie bag.

See you next summer!

Mr G's Bistro Brings Finesse to Balboa Island

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There's another new spot on Balboa Island (read about The Royal Hen), bringing polish & finesse to this once quaint & charming, touristy destination.

Mr. G's Bistro serves California & Italian-inspired cuisine from Handmade Pastas to Burrata Prosciutto boards with edible Flowers & Mint.

The decor is simple: classic black & white linen table cloths with champagne mirrors and sculptural round bulb lights.

The service is friendly, accommodating, and full of personality.

The food is fresh, but for some dishes, overdressed.

The Grubdown:

- clean, light, refreshing, Burrata with Tangerine, Proscuitto, Mint, Edible Flowers, Honey & Petite Baguette $14

- tender, juicy with crispy crunch, a bit salty, Fried Chicken with Arugula Salad, Lemon & Sea Salt $16 (Lunch Only)

- melts in your mouth, very rich, Tagliatelle with Lump Crab, Sea Urchin, Calabrian Chili, Lemon & Pecorino $28

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Overall, I was very impressed with Mr. G's Bistro's refinement and attention to detail. Our two main courses leaned on the salty side, but were mouthwatering to say the least, and we kept coming back for more.

There was no room for dessert – they ran out of the Chocolate Budino, anyhow.

Mr. G's Bistro offers Beer, Wine, and Champagne only, however they have a great "Balboa Hour" (a.k.a. Happy Hour) with half off drinks from 3pm to 6pm Tuesday thru Sunday.

Mangia Mangia!

305 Marine Ave., Newport Beach, CA 92662. 949-675-6193.

The 16 Best Bites of 2016

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As the year comes to an end, it's time to reflect on the 16 Best Bites of 2016.

From Spanish Tapas to Taiwanese and good 'ole fashioned Fried Chicken, here's where to get Your Next Bite from LA to OC and San Diego. (Listed alphabetically.)

The Grubdown:

A Restaurant - Contemporary American

- creamy 'n silky smooth, earthy with sweet 'n sour notes, Duck Liver Pate with Cinnamon Applesauce, Curried Mustard Yellow Raisins, Rhubarb, Grand Marnier Gelee & Grilled Bread $16

Arc - Locally Sourced American Food

- unreal heartiness, love the mix of shredded & finely ground beef, Chili with Beef, Lentils, Sour Cream, Chive & Grilled Toast $16

Crack Shack - Fried Chicken House

- crispy outside, super juicy inside, buttermilk flavor with just the right amount of grease, Fried Chicken 10 PC $28.00

Din Tai Fung - Taiwanese Dumpling House

- must order, tender, soup explosion in your mouth, Pork XiaoLongBao Soup Dumplings

Farmhouse - Farm to Table Cuisine

- curried cauliflower is the star, while succotash is bland, Farmhouse Vegetable Plate with White Beans & Greens, Curried Cauliflower Cous Cous, Lemon Mint Yogurt, Grilled Corn, Peppers, Red Onions, Squash & Farro with Grilled Peach Chutney $23

Lola Gaspar - Latin & Spanish Food

- the best taco I ever ate, I had an outer body experience, complex sweet 'n smokey flavors, uniquely light 'n thin handmade tortilla, Carnitas Tacos with Salsa Negra, Avocado, Cream & Pickled Chili $10

North Italia - Modern Italian Food

- unique, creamy 'n eye-opening spice, Short Rib Radiatori Pasta with Parmesan Cream, Fresh Horseradish, Wilted Arugula & Herbed Breadcrumbs $21

Ola Mexican Kitchen - Mexican Food

- it'll change the way you eat corn forever, creamy, cool 'n filling, Elote Man Roasted Corn with Cotija Cheese & Lime Aioli $7

Plan Check Kitchen + Bar - Modern American Comfort Food

- juicy, cheesy with ketchup that packs a punch, PCB Plan Check Burger with Americanized Dashi Cheese, Ketchup Leather, Schmaltz Onions, Mixed Pickles & Crunchy Bun $12.50

The Ritz Prime Seafood - Steak & Seafood

- delicate, organic, creamy 'n rich, The Ritz Egg with Smoked Salmon & Caviar $16

The Royal Hen - Gastropub with British, European & Asian Influences

- fluffy, great presentation, Craft Ale Fish & Chips with irresistible Mushy Peas, light homemade Fries & Malt Vinegar Aioli $18

SeaSalt - Santa Maria BBQ

- must order, smokey, spicy 'n sweet, Smoked Santa Maria Tri-Trip with Linguisa Sausage, Beans & Salsa $22

Snow Monster - Ice Cream & Dessert Shop

- my dream come true, rich 'n creamy, crispy toffee crunch, Giant S'mores Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich with English Toffee Ice Cream $4.25

Social - Classic Southern and New-American Cuisine

- crunchy, nutty, sweet 'n fatty, Brussels Sprouts with Honey, Sweet Potato, House Tasso Ham & Hazelnuts $8

Vaca - Spanish Tapas

- the best thing on the menu, authentic, creamy, smokey 'n sweet, La Bola crispy Potato Balls with Ground Beef, Aioli & Spicy Tomato Sauce $9

Ways & Means Oyster House - Seafood

- if garlic bread and rockefeller had a spinach-free baby...Nola Dressed Oysters with Garlic, Butter, Parmesan, Parsley & Breadcrumbs $10

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Cheers to an even more delicious & Happy New Year with bites from Playground to Scopa.

Newport Beach Restaurant Week starts this Monday, January 18th

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Photo courtesy of www.dinenb.com

It's that time of year again for Newport Beach Restaurant Week in OC.

Starting this Monday, January 18th through Sunday, January 31st, you can enjoy 3 and 4-course prix-fixe meals for Lunch or Dinner at great prices, ranging from $10 to $50 per person.

Here are 10 of my favorite dishes to try from the 2016 restaurant roster.

The Grubdown:

Canaletto

- hearty, tomatoey Pennoni al Ragu with Traditional Meat Ragu and Dry-Aged Ricotta Cheese

Cucina Enoteca

- this appetizer is a meal in itself, fluffy, tangy 'n sweet, Creamy Mascarpone Polenta Board with Chef's Whim Ragu (mine was Lamb)

Hopdoddy

- clean, thick 'n juicy, the bacon 'n cheese add-ons really make it, The Classic Burger with Angus Beef, Red Leaf Lettuce, White Onion, Ripe Beefsteak Tomato & Sassy Sauce (Horseradish, Ketchup & Mustard)

Pizzeria Mozza

- melt in your mouth, pesto that's heavy-in-a-good-way, Mozza Caprese with sweet Roasted Tomatoes

- excellent array of Leeks, spicy 'n caramelized flavor with spongey yet crispy crust, Coach Farm Goat Cheese, Leek, Scallion, Garlic & Bacon Pizza

Slapfish

- light 'n crisp with perfect balance of fresh veg, Ultimate Taco with Cabbage, Avocado Puree, Pickled Onion, Saffron & Radish on Corn Tortilla

True Food Kitchen

- light 'n refreshing, is simply delicious, Tuscan Kale with Lemon, Parmesan & Bread Crumbs

The Winery

- sweet 'n tender, could've eaten a whole bowl of the creamy risotto with a spicy kick, reduction is better suited for steak, Jumbo Maine Scallops and Wild White Shrimp with Saffron Roasted Red Pepper Edamame Bean Risotto & Crispy Proscuitto

- meat has medium thickness, couscous is clean 'n spongey, Slow Braised Angus Beef Shortrib with Zinfandel Reduction, Carrot infused Pearl CousCous & Proscuitto Wrapped Asparagus

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Don't forget to post where @yournextbite of Newport Beach Restaurant Week will be at https://www.instagram.com/yournextbite/

Bon Appetit!

Scary Good Squid Ink Treats (not Tricks) for Halloween

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This Halloween, I dare you to try some scary good Squid Ink treats.

This liquid, secreted from cephalopods as a defense mechanism against predators, is considered a delicacy. It contains dopamine and free amino acids like taurine to get your party going.

Because it's black in color, it's often used as a dye, and also by chefs to add a devilishly rich umami flavor.

Here's a list of Squid Ink treats to try from LA to OC.

The Grubdown:

Hostaria del Piccolo, Santa Monica

- forget Italy, this pizza whisks you away to Asia with umami, earthy, seaweed 'n celery salt, Tonno Nera Pizze Bianche with Squid Ink Dough, Fresh Tuna, Green Onions, Mozzarella & Pizzaiola Crudo Sauce $18

Little Spain, Los Angeles

- crowd favorite, sea salty, bittersweet, clam juicy, fluffy rice Paella Mariscos with Clams, Mussels, Scallops, Calamari, Shrimp & Squid Ink $12

The Dock, Newport Beach

- sweet 'n tender, umami, citrus 'n pesto, Main Diver Scallops with Squid Ink Risotto, Blistered Tomatoes & Passion Fruit Vinaigrette $38

Happy Halloween!

OC Restaurant Week is Back!

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Now through March 7th is the time to dine out for the 7th annual OC Restaurant Week. More than 100 restaurants will be participating this year with Lunch prix-fixe menus ranging from $10 to $20 and Dinners from $20 to $50 (a new all-time high).

Here are the top dishes to order from some of my favorite biteries in The OC:

The Grubdown:

Anqi, Costa Mesa

- melts in your mouth, Misoyaki Butterfish with Aromatic Red Cargo Rice, Thai Herbs, Broccolini & Dijon-Misoyaki Glaze

Cucina Enoteca, Newport Beach

- this appetizer is a meal in itself, fluffy, tangy 'n sweet, Creamy Mascarpone Polenta Board with Chef's Whim Ragu (mine was Lamb)

Fig & Olive, Newport Beach

- upper class indulgent junk food, Truffle Mushroom Croquette with Cremini Mushroom, Parmesan, Béchamel & Truffle Olive Oil Aioli

The Winery, Newport Beach

- sweet 'n tender with a spicy kick, reduction is better suited for steak, Jumbo Maine Scallops and Wild White Shrimp with Saffron Roasted Red Pepper Edamame Bean Risotto & Crispy Prosciutto

- hearty 'n rich with a twist, Slow Braised Angus Beef Shortrib with Zinfandel Reduction, Carrot infused Pearl CousCous & Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus $29.95

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Bon Appetit!

Cucina Enoteca - a Post Newport Beach Restaurant Week Analysis

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Even though Newport Beach Restaurant Week is over, I'm still thinking about the incredible meal I had at Cucina Enoteca's newest location in Fashion Island. The "California inspired Italian Kitchen" is a great addition to the outdoor mall, despite the fact it's always packed.

The space is rustic with warm lighting, natural woods, artisan goods & plenty of lush plants whisking you away to the Mediterranean, whether you're sitting at the up-lit bar or patio.

The restaurant week dinner menu featured two options, one for $30 with a pizza entree and one for $40 with something more robust. The hand model and I ordered one of each, but unfortunately had to dine "take-away" style (so, please excuse the brown boxes).

The Grubdown:

- precisely chopped, refreshing use of toasted Quinoa, Chopped Salad with Mixed Greens, Romaine, Bacon, Pear, Green Grapes, Gorgonzola & Walnuts with Lemon Blue Cheese Vinaigrette

- sweet 'n spicy, thin flatbread style, Casalingo Pepperoni & Fennel Sausage Pizza with Mozzarella & Peppadew Peppers

- hearty beef stew meets pasta in a heavenly comforting way, Short Rib Pappardelle with Cremini Mushrooms, Carrots & Parmigiano

- sweet 'n salty, velvety mousse with sticky crunch, Chocolate Budino with Orange Crema, chopped Hazelnuts, Chocolate Espresso Ganache & Toffee Cookie

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While Cucina Enoteca's menu is seasonal, lucky for you, the Pepperoni & Sausage Pizza and Short Rib Pappardelle seem to be mainstays.

"Mangia Mangia!"

New Italian spot Pirozzi comes to Corona del Mar

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This Labor Day weekend I encourage you to try one of the newest restaurants to hit the Corona del Mar area of Orange County – that's if you're lucky enough to get a reservation.

Pirozzi is changing the way Italian is done in this quaint seaside town, serving modern, clean dishes senza that 'I just ate a bowl of pasta' feeling.

Brought to you by the same award-winning chef of Mare and Cafe Alessa, Chef Alessandro Pirozzi learned his way around the Naples kitchen from his grandmother, Nonna Ida.

The menu features Handmade Pasta & Gelato, Pizze straight from a wood-burning oven hand-crafted by artisans in Naples, fresh Seasonal Salads – even a 900 degree Baked Prime Beef.

And the space couldn't be smarter with both an open-air patio and dining room to enjoy a SoCal summer's breeze.

The Grubdown:

- almost too beautiful 'n too crunchy to eat, spicy, zesty 'n sweet, Rainbow of Organic Shaved Carrots Crudo Salad with Aged Gouda, Caramelized Pecans, Olio & Nuovo Dressing $10

- tender, herbal, stuffed, and marinated, Quaglia Speck wrapped Quail stuffed with Wild Boar Sausage over Wild Southern Mushrooms $19

- nutty brown buttery, meat is ground and melts in your mouth, Veal Ossobuco Ravioli with Braised Free-Range Veal Shank, Shallots and Garlic Sauteed Wild Mushrooms in Brown Butter crispy fried Sage Sauce $25

- clean clam juice 'n tomato sauce with tender not chewy seafood, Risotto Nonna Ida with imported Italian Carnaroli Rice, Clams, Calamari, Giant Prawns & Garlic White Wine San Marzano Sauce $20

- pasta is thick and al dente, meat sauce is mild 'n sweet, and mushrooms are a nice surprise, 50/50 homemade Fettucine Bolognese style with Free-Range Beef and homemade Kurobuta Pork Salsiccia, Wild Mushrooms & Shaved Pecorino $18

- addicting, I hogged it all to myself, lemony garlicky Foccacia Bread with Pesto Dip (Complimentary)

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Between the friendly service, fresh 'n clean Italian food, and atmosphere, Pirozzi brings a new level of sophistication with a smile to Corona del Mar.

Mangia! Mangia!

2929 East Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, CA 92625. 949-675-2932.

Orange County Restaurant Week starts Sunday February 23rd

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Orange County Restaurant Week is back and better than ever with 120+ participating restaurants this Sunday, February 23rd through Saturday, March 1st. It's affordable for everyone with 3-course Lunches starting at $10 per person, and Dinners up to $40 per person. There's even a contest to win a full year of "Dinner & A Movie" gift cards from Regal Cinema.

The event kicks off this Saturday, February 22nd at Newport Lexus with food from 20+ participating restaurants, beer, wine, and signature cocktails. (Sorry, Charlie – the party is sold out.)

Here's a list of just a few places to check out during this delectable dining week.

The Grubdown:

Canaletto

creamy, fresh & tangy, Risotto Sant'erasmo with Shrimp, Dungeness Crab & Baby Artichokes

Cucina Enoteca

- a new way to eat your kale in a velvety vibrant puree, Creamy Tuscan Kale Zuppa with Garlic, Onion, Shallot, Basil, Spinach, Celery & Mascarpone

SeaLegs

- hearty, fatty, woodsy 'n sweet blend, Chipotle Stout Braised Short Ribs over Grilled Butternut Squash Polenta Cake, Candied Rainbow Carrots & Shallot Rings with Chipotle Stout Reduction Sauce

Sol Cocina

- smokey Meyer Prime Beef Grilled Carne Asada AND tender 'n tangy Slow-Roasted & Shredded Premium Pork Shoulder Carnitas Street Tacos

Starfish

- New England style with a sweet 'n spicy kick, "Lobster Roll' Sliders with Maine Lobster, Sriracha Aioli & Pickled Jalapeno on Warm Sweet Buns

Tamarind of London

- heavy on the tomato, too light on the extremely juicy 'n tender Chicken Tikka Masala with Ginger, Honey & Fenugreek

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Bon Appetit!

The Best Bites of 2013

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Before ringing in the New Year with exciting blog posts to come – like the new Red O in Fashion Island, classic Culina in Beverly Hills, and my all time seafood favorite Son of A Gun in LA – it's time to reflect on the best bites of 2013, chronologically.

The Grubdown:

Juliette Kitchen & Bar - The first in OC to exude the LA dining scene for me with gourmet goodies in cast iron skillets

- genius, healthy whole grain substitute for arborio rice, milky smooth, soft 'n creamy, just needed a touch more cheese, Farro Risotto with Baby Squash, Trumpet Mushrooms, Swiss Chard, Tomatoes & Herbs $11

930 Sushi - Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice is on Happy Hour, 'nuff said

- more than generous portion, like a crunchy hash brown with warm center, then topped with mouth-on-fire Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice with Jalapeno Slice and Sesame Seeds ($3.96 special price)

Hartwood, Tulum, Mexico - Completely outdoor island restaurant vibe with top notch chops

- the star of the show, falls right off the bone, stewed for 6 hours with a secret 3-step process, Pork Rib atop Pickled Vinegar Red Cabbage Slaw   (special)

Connie And Ted's - Authentic Rhode Island seafood from the state-named Chowda to Stuffies

- finally a REAL Rhode Island SPLIT toasted bun Lobster Roll with a ridiculous bounty of Buttery Lobster Chunks that were so tender, they fell apart in my mouth $20

Laurel Hardware - The epitome of the LA scene from celeb sightings to creamy Kale Salads

- if you eat plain kale salad daily you'll enjoy this over-dressed, heavier, creamier, indulgent version, Lollipop Sprouts with Avocado, Pepitas & House Made "Ranch" $12

Mister Parker's, Palm Springs - This kitschy restaurant inside The Parker Hotel knows how to dish up meat

- i've never had lamb so tender, my fork accidentally hit it and the meat fell off the bone, Flinstone size Carre d'Agneau Lamb Shank with Lentils de Puy, Bloomsdale Spinach, and Pomelo Emulsion $38

Carmelita's Kitchen - Finally, some authentic Mexican spice and sauces in OC

- ginormous chunks of pull-apart-tender Pork bathed in spicy red sauce, Tacos Al Pastor with stewed Pineapple, Corn Tortillas, Fresh Chopped Onion & Cilantro $13

Hostaria del Piccolo - From inventive Black Squid Ink Pizza Dough to simple Housemade Tomato Pasta

- simply beautiful recommendation from the waiter, perfectly cooked, surprisingly starchy pasta-water flavor, grainy 'n lightly acidic, Gluten Free Spaghetti with Lentils, Roasted Tomatoes, Arugula, Parmesan & Olive Oil $16

SeaLegs Wine Bar - Ironically, their meat is tastier than their seafood

- must order, everything in one, salty, sweet, pungent, earthy 'n peppery, Pig and Fig Flatbread with Papaya Gastrique, Proscuitto, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Figs, Caramelized Onion, Bleu Cheese, Mozzarella & Arugula on Grilled Flatbread $14

Muddy Leek - So creative & always reliable, I blogged about their organic, sustainable dishes twice

genius from concept to gluten-free rice flour crunch, Cauliflower Croquettes atop housemade Kimchi that balances the creamy $8

Fig & Olive - An exciting way to end the year with a special invite to the grand opening of this clean Mediterranean flavors hot spot

- creamy, woodsy, wondrously al dente, Truffle Risotto with Arborio Rice, Cremini & Black Trumpet Mushrooms, Scallions, Parmesan, Parsley & White Truffle Olive Oil $26

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After reviewing the best bites from the best restaurants I dined at in 2013, I'm strangely surprised by the meat to seafood ratio (especially since fish is always my first choice.) Just goes to show how high I set the bar when bringing you biters only the finest.

Looking forward to a Happy New Year full of more incredible bites and breaking restaurant news!

Sexy SeaLegs by the Seashore

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Even though SeaLegs Wine Bar is located by Surf City's seashore (a.k.a. Huntington Beach), upon dining you can't help but feel like you've been transported to LA.

Strip mall aside, the place is popping with a lively crowd, cool tunes, natural warm woods, sexy candlelight, chichi chandeliers – even a cheeky Moet lifesaver in the ladies powder room.

Executive Chef Alexander Dale mans the boat with locally sourced New England meets Cal-Italian fare, and a menu worthy of his two-year title,"Best California Cuisine", from the Golden Foodie Awards.

The Grubdown:

- must order, everything in one, salty, sweet, pungent, earthy 'n peppery, Pig and Fig Flatbread with Papaya Gastrique, Proscuitto, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Figs, Caramelized Onion, Bleu Cheese, Mozzarella & Arugula on Grilled Flatbread $14

- sounded like heaven with all my favorite foods, sadly it was bland and could use some seafood broth  'n spice, Pumpkin Coconut Curry Jumbo Lump Crab Bisque with Micro Cilantro & Sour Cream $12

- overdressed but I like bitter greens this way now, Pumpkin Seeds add a buttery roasted element, Baby Kale Caesar with Grilled Lime Caesar Dressing, Shaved Parmigiano, Pumpkin Seeds & Housemade Croutons $12

- more about the pungent cream cheesiness than the truffle, Truffle Mac & Cheese with Truffle Oil, Panko Bread Crumb Topping & White Cheddar $12

- another favorite, perfectly smoked meat that's hot 'n juicy, Charred Filet Medallions with Pickled Onions & Red Wine Demi Glace on soft pillowy Buns $16

- beautiful but disappointing, overpoweringly sour, acidic garlic sauce, Pan Seared Dry U-10 Diver Scallops over Spaghetti Squash, Roasted Rainbow Cauliflower, Grape Tomatoes & Blood Orange Beurre Blanc $28

- hearty, fatty, woodsy 'n sweet blend, Chipotle Stout Braised Short Ribs over Grilled Butternut Squash Polenta Cake, Candied Rainbow Carrots & Shallot Rings with Chipotle Stout Reduction Sauce $24

- a pumpkin lover's birthday cake fantasy, La Citrouille Dessert, Pumpkin Pie Filling layered between White Sponge Cake and topped with Whipped Cream, Vanilla Ice Cream & Candied Walnuts $10

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SeaLegs is the perfect place to jump ship and escape the fam during the holidays, or to treat your out-of-town mates with $5 wines & shared plates during Happy Hour, Mon-Fri from 4-6pm.

21022 Beach Blvd. #105, Huntington Beach, CA 92648. 714-536-5700.

$12.95 AYCE Artisan Pizza Sundays at Local - a Real San Francisco Treat!

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Whenever it's Sunday night in San Francisco, treat yourself to All You Can Eat Artisan Pizza for $12.95 and $15 Draft Beer Pitchers at Local Kitchen & Wine Merchant in Rincon Hill. My friends and I certainly did, even after spending a weekend getaway eating our way around San Francisco – and it was the best deal in town.

5 of us stuffed ourselves silly with 8 (maybe more) hand-crafted pizzas, made from whatever local ingredients the chef decided to craft together that night. Servers passed around the fresh out the wood-burning oven pizzas on a paddle from table to table, "grab 'n go" style. Here's what we liked most and least, in that order.

The Grubdown:

- earthy, wholesome Fungi Pizza with Fresh Wild Mushrooms, Crisp Arugula, Spring Onions & Roasted Garlic

- tangy, salty, scrumptious Proscuitto Gorgonzola Pizza with Crisp Red Onions

- super cheesy Pepperoni Pizza with Mozzarella, Tomato Sauce & Parmesan

- surprisingly good Point Reyes Blue Cheese Pizza with Mozzarella, Sweet Oven-Dried Tomatoes, Chopped Garlic & Basil

- light 'n fresh Margherita Pizza with Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Parmesan & Large Basil Leaves

- sweet, Asian-influenced Roast Duck Pizza with Chopped Cilantro, Caramelized Onions & Mozzarella

- slightly soggy & bland Shrimp Pizza with Pesto Sauce, Chopped Tomato & Basil

- looked divine, but not a fan of Roasted Potato Pizza with Green Olives & Caramelized Onions

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1. An all around favorite of my group was the Fungi Wild Mushroom with Arugula. The Spring Onions are caramelized, which gives a sweet balance to the pepperiness of the fresh 'n crisp Arugula. And the flavors and textures of all the different Wild Mushrooms make each bite unique.

2. I absolutely loved the Proscuitto Gorgonzola pizza! The creamy Gorgonzola balances out the salty Proscuitto, but with a tangy bite and crunch from the Red Onion. Definitely wash this one down with some beer.

3. The Pepperoni Pizza has so much ooey gooey Mozzarella that drizzles off each slice. Not to worry, all pizzas are served Flatbread style so bring on the cheese!

4. A couple of my friends didn't like the idea of eating Point Reyes Blue Cheese on a pizza, but the pairing of the Sweet Oven-Roasted Tomatoes & stand-out Chopped Garlic made them forget all about it.

5. The best part of this Margherita Pizza that separates it from other restaurants is the crispy, big Basil leaves and large chunks of Parmesan. The tomato sauce is light 'n fresh, same with the Mozzarella.

6. Our least favorites of the pack start with the Roast Duck Pizza. While I quite enjoyed the tender Duck and different flavor combination in my my mouth – Sweet Caramelized Onions, Chopped Cilantro, Soy and a touch of Sesame – the majority of the group did not.

7. None of us are big fans of Shrimp on Pizza, so we were already a bit biased going in. One friend said, "the Shrimp smells funky," another one said, "it's kinda soggy," and even though it has Pesto Sauce & Chopped Tomato, the flavors are quite bland.

8. Same goes for Potato on a Pizza, or in a Taco, or on any other Carb for that matter – one's enough for my waistline and my palate thank you very much! While the Roasted Potato Green Olive Pizza definitely looks divine, it's hard to get past the Carb on Carb action

I think we sampled a few more slices, but by that point my camera was pizza'd out!

Other Local Entrees include Pastas like Linguini with Manila Clams, Mussels & Tiger Prawns in a Spicy White Wine Tomato Sauce ($18), Fresh Fish of the Day (MP), Organic Whole or Half Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Sage Brown Butter Demi Glace ($15/20), and Braised Rabbit Pot Pie with Root Vegetables ($16). They also have a fantastic, enclosed Private Dining Room – fits 11 people – next to their Wine Shop with over 250 bottles.

So next time you visit San Francisco, make sure to schedule a Monday departure, so you can take advantage of Local's unbelievable $12.95 All You Can Eat Artisan Pizza & $15 Draft Beer Pitcher deal.

If only they delivered to L.A., but that wouldn't be very Local now would it?

P.S. Happy Hour is every Tues-Fri with $3 Beers, $5 Wines, Half Off Pizzas, and other Bar Menu Discounts. Fridays and Saturdays are $1 Oysters.