This current Grub Guide features technology, healthy dining and a bit of wine indulgence. For something to do this weekend, jump down to our Dine LBC coverage. Otherwise, enjoy the week’s discoveries and we’ll see you again soon!
Brekkie Options at 180blu – Dana Point
They’re calling it The Breakfast Cart, but it’s really about location, location, location. Dining on morning favorites is a bonus when your table overlooks prime coastal real estate. Drop in weekends before noon for burritos and fruit salad before your hike at Thousand Steps Beach. You may want to save the day drinking for after, though. Hydration is key! Oh, and it’s only available through Labor Day weekend. 1 Ritz Carlton Dr., (949) 240-2000; www.ritzcarlton.com.
Clean Eating at The Yellow Chilli – Tustin
Known in Indian cuisine as the Wolfgang Puck of India, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor takes a cuisine typically consumed as a lunch buffet and brings it to a level that’s not only tasty but exceptionally good for you. For sea bass that’ll have you thinking about it long after you’re done, get the tandoori appetizer. An order of peshawari naan is about as flavor-packed as flatbread gets. Fall-off-the-bone goodness (pictured) is courtesy of nalli rogan josh, a.k.a. lamb shank. And don’t get us started on the lentils! Did we forget to mention their full bar and happy hour? 2463 Park Ave., (714) 389-5280; www.theyellowchillitustin.com.
Wine Down at Bacchus – Irvine
A fixture in the Quail Hill neighborhood, Bacchus Bar and Bistro is a local spot with style. By the glass or bottle, let the knowledgeable staff guide you to your preferred sip. Chef Leo Moran will assemble a simple, yet effective charcuterie and cheese board, if you so choose. Or go for heartier bites of lamb and scallops. May we suggest a cool Chardonnay to beat the heat? Support local the next time you’re tasked with picking up a bottle for that party. 6735 Quail Hill Pkwy., (949) 502-4600; bacchusbarandbistro.com.
Nekter Juice Bar’s Loyalty Program – All locations
Why promote an app? For starters, we actually like going to Nekter after the gym. Before, it took literally 10 visits before we earned anything. With the reboot of their loyalty rewards program, you can be earning freebies in two or three visits. Receive three points for every dollar spent, and watch the rewards add up. Remember to sample one of their many Skoop flavors while you’re there. www.nekterjuicebar.com.
Coming Soon: Uptown Commons – Long Beach
A trio of restaurants are in the works at new development Uptown Commons. Main Chick, Oi Asian Fusion and Shomi Noods will be the dining tenants initially, with plans to include a drive-thru Starbucks and Wendy’s. After trying Oi and Shomi in Chino Hills, it is definitely comfort food with distinct flavors. Congrats to Long Beach for pushing the dining envelope; Uptown Commons is hoping to be open in the springtime. 6600 Atlantic Ave., at E. Artesia Ave.
Dine LBC Launch Party This Saturday
Happening from August 3 through 11, Dine LBC wants you to plan ahead and make the most of the week. This is why their kickoff is on July 27th at the recently renovated Westin Long Beach. A brunch-time affair, get to know many of the restaurants participating while enjoying small bites and listening to a live broadcast of the SoCal Restaurant Show. Arrive early for a snazzy tote bag, or drop by later for a cocktail, it’s win-win either way. Tickets and more information on their website. www.dinelbc.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.