Blame it on Irvine and Newport or blame it on the rain, this week’s news revolves around a couple of popular dining cities. Chef inspiration and cozy eats make our guide more diverse than you may think.
JA Jiaozi Now Serving Lunch Deals! – Irvine
We spy with our hungry eyes a good deal at our local fancy dumpling house. Weekday lunch sets are now available! Score a handful of signature dumplings, Spicy Chicken Cold Noodles, and tea for just $12. Vegetarians can opt for a meatless version for the same cheap price. Chow down, people, and take a selfie in front of their dumpling wall art! 13776 Jamboree Rd., Ste. 13776, (714) 786-8999; www.jajiaozi.com.
Oak Grill’s New Executive Chef and Dinner Series – Newport Beach
Sunday and Monday evenings this month, make a beeline for Fashion Island Hotel with Chef Brittany Valles and her inspired cuisine. Your three-course, October selections include Salmon Tartare, Saffron Paella and Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake. There are a trio of options per course, allowing for delicious mixing and matching. Reservations suggested, but not required. Check the Events tab on their website for additional information on this $65 dinner. 690 Newport Center Dr., (949) 760-4920; www.oakgrillnb.com.
Lazy Dog Fall Menu is Here – all locations
A PB & J Burger, Rocky Road Pancake and Crispy Deviled Eggs are just a few of the tastes you can expect to encounter the next time you hit up your local Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar. Launched at the end of September, the tastes are both comforting and nostalgic. We like that this is one of the few restaurant chains that isn’t afraid to take a few risks with their test kitchen R&D team. Check out the seasonal changes on their website. www.lazydogrestaurants.com.
YNK’s Final Destination – Irvine
The random, little speakeasy in Irvine that could is going out in style with one last travel itinerary. Tucked past the lobby bar at Irvine Marriott, You Never Know is keeping it local with California dreamin’ concoctions. In a very DIY fashion, patrons will pick their spirit poison of choice, style of beverage (Walk of Shame pistachio milk and coffee liqueur, anyone?) and garnish options for the completely customized experience. Head in for the next two to three months for this final countdown. 18000 Von Karman Ave.; www.ynk-irvine.com.
Fly ‘N Fish’s CHOC fundraiser – Newport Beach
Next time you’re near Newport pier, pay a visit to this local establishment. For the month of October (also known as National Seafood Month), Fly ‘N Fish is donating proceeds from the sale of their New England clam chowder to CHOC Hospital. Since 2015, their donations have totaled over $30,000 towards this yearly fundraiser. 2304 W. Oceanfront, (949) 673-8400; www.flynfishoysterbar.com.
Bayside’s Oktoberfest menu – Newport Beach
Through October 25, the menu at Bayside will also be home to loyal Oktoberfest diners. Take for example the Kase Krainer, an Emmental cheese-infused Heritage pork sausage that’s been lightly smoked. Locate a proper pint from Goose Island or another brand, and you’ve got the makings of a good evening. 900 Bayside Dr., (949) 721-1222; www.baysiderestaurant.com.
A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.