That title wasn’t a jab at anybody. In fact, it’s a heads up. Next week’s Grub Guide is all about Mom. This week’s focuses on some holidays outside of the motherly one. These celebrations are celebrated fast and furious with get-togethers galore.
Hendrix Anniversary Specials – Laguna Niguel
It began Tuesday, but you’ve got through Friday dinner to take advantage of the duo of deals during the first anniversary of Hendrix. During lunch hours, tackle the special 3-course menu for $20.18. We like the Hawaiian Big Eye Tuna Tartare, but there’s also a lettuce wedge or marinated artichoke to choose from. Tagliatella with Bolognese sauce or Rosemary Lemon Chicken for the next course. Maybe you want a fancy grilled ham-and-cheese instead? There are options! Dinnertime means $20.18 off your bill when the special is mentioned. Select bigger plate options or from their roti in order to qualify. 32431 Golden Lantern, (949) 248-1912; www.hendrixoc.com.
Cinco de Mayo at Puesto – Irvine (two locations)
Perfect Margaritas await at either OC outpost of Puesto. Find these Casa Noble Crystal organic tequila beauties at a special price of $12, with the option to include fresh mango or strawberry for a couple of bucks more. You can also pick up an entire bottle of this to bring back home (or work?) for $50. For a beer-based cocktail, try an El Rey del Patio, made with cucumbers, tomatillos and jalapenos. FYI: their Taco of the Month for May is a Lebanese-inspired Taco de Puebla, a mix of spiced pork shoulder, cilantro and salsa roja. www.eatpuesto.com.
Back Bay Bistro Cinco de Mayo brunch – Newport
If you can’t wait for Sunday brunch, head to Newport Dunes and make it a Saturday instead. Offered from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., this buffet spread includes ceviche, pozole, mole and other classic Mexican fare. Bonus: this is in addition to their regularly scheduled brunch selections. $28 for adults; $13 12 and under. Booze will cost you extra. 1131 Back Bay Dr., (949) 729-1144; www.newportdunes.com.
Paderia Turns One! – Fountain Valley
Our favorite chocolate chip cookie of 2017, the hard-working crew at Paderia Bakehouse is preparing to celebrate their milestone. Drop by this weekend for free malasadas with purchase (while supplies last). While you’re there, sip on one of their new horchata beverages, available in Caramel Flan, Strawberry, Coffee and Matcha. Oh, and be sure to enter the raffle to win some tasty prizes, including free cookies for a year and $25 gift cards! 18279 Brookhurst St., Ste. 1, (714) 916-5977; www.paderiabakehouse.com.
Monark’s Summer Fiesta BBQ – Costa Mesa
South Coast Plaza celebrates Cinco with some grill time on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Stop by this appliance mecca for bites from chefs representing all the cool brands: Wolf, Alfresco, Hestan and Kalamazoo. Pro tip: Monark Premium Appliance Co’s entrance is located outside, between Nordstrom and Sears. 3333 Bristol St., Ste. 6756, (949) 245-2080; www.monarkhome.com.
Five Crowns Bourbon Derby Party – Corona del Mar
5/1 – UPDATE: This event has been cancelled. Not really a holiday, but definitely scheduled this weekend: The Kentucky Derby. If tacos and margs aren’t your thing, stop by this PCH mainstay for Mint Juleps and races from 1:30-4:30 p.m. This is a ticketed event, but Chef Alejandra Padilla will rustle up a special Louisville-themed menu for attendees. Bourbon lessons and prizes for Best Dressed are on the garden and patio agenda. Ticket information can be found over here. 3801 E. Coast Hwy., (949) 258-7288; www.thefivecrowns.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.