It’s a pretty packed week of coverage in our grub guide. Hot announcements and tasty events await.
Knife Pleat Announces Lunch Service and Afternoon Tea – South Coast Plaza
Let’s cut to the chase, shall we? Lunch service at South Coast Plaza’s newest fine dining establishment will commence Monday, September 23 and will be seven days a week. In addition, September 29 will mark the first Sunday afternoon tea from 3-6 p.m. Best news we’ve heard all week. Start booking those reservations. 3333 Bristol St., (714) 266-3388; www.knifepleat.com.
S’wich Bistro Knows Gut Health – Irvine
On a recent visit to one of our local lunch spots, we spotted a new drink dispenser by the S’wich registers. For those who haven’t gotten on the kombucha train, consider this your gateway stop, thanks to Superfood & Company. The first of three flavors, Ginger Raider is actually a probiotic drink, containing yeasts and live bacteria that are good for you. With lemongrass and apple flavor, it has less of a bite than you’d think. Next up, Hibiscus Ginger takes the Raider flavor and lightly sweetens with floral black tea. It went well with our brekkie burrito. Passion of the Elders is the true kombucha, containing a blend of passion fruit, elderberry and cupuacu (a tropical tree that gives a melon/pear flavor). Spend the fiver for some good digestion. 16277 Laguna Canyon Rd., (949) 753-0227; www.swichbistro.com.
Kashiwa Ramen Expands Menu – Costa Mesa
The noodle joint best known for a chicken broth base has ventured into pork territory, as tonkotsu broth debuted late last month. Now, your friend who still couldn’t wrap their noggin around chicken is happy. Us? We’re usually inhaling chicken karaage and gyoza at the counter on a hot day; we save the hot soup for milder weather. See you on the Yelp wait list. 1420 Baker St., #C, (657) 232-0223; www.thekashiwaramen.com.
Sgt. Pepp’s Does Good Deeds – Newport Beach
Mozzarella, provolone, gouda and fontina make up this month’s featured pie called Quattro Formaggi. 100% of profits will benefit a CHOC Children’s Foundation fund known as Julian’s Lego Corner. His parents honor their son’s legacy by providing new Legos to CHOC patients. Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza Store also supports Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by donating 100% of profits on Tuesday, September 10, from 5-10 p.m. Eat pizza. Provide toys. It’s that easy. 2300 SE Bristol St., (949) 852-9500; www.sgtpepps.com.
Manassero Farms and Pascal Olhats Present: Downton Farmby – Irvine
An epic movie is slated to premiere this month. In preparation, Chef Pascal (WELCOME BACK, by the way) has teamed up with Anne Manassero for a delightful themed dinner experience. Scheduled for Thursday, September 12, expect white glove service, lawn games, wine, Cornish hen, butternut squash scones, toffee trifles and much more. For all the details, head over here. 15670 Jeffrey Rd., (949) 554-5103; www.manasserofarms.com.
We See You: Flippin’ Beach ‘N Burgers – Laguna Beach
In an attempt to please both vegans and carnivores, Flippin’ is being renovated over the former Royal Thai Cuisine space. We spotted the banner while enjoying a sunset cocktail up the street last month. Wishing you a speedy opening while the beach weather is still inviting. Notable mention: The person leasing the space also runs a massage and holistic therapy spot down the street. 1750 S. Coast Hwy.
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.