Julie Lim classed up an unassuming strip mall by SNA a few years ago, converting a liquor store into a wine mart and tasting bar. Equipped with dispensers that run on re-loadable cards, patrons can sample pours from a variety of bottles. But it wasn't only the wine that brought people in. Julie sells craft beer by the bottle, cheese plates and macarons. She also invites popular luxe loncheras, holding special events on a regular basis. It's her constant marketing and approachable storefront that earn her fans.
Naturally we got excited when she announced a second location was in the works. A total makeover and remodel project begins this month. Her goal for this fall is to serve locals in north OC, including Yorba Linda, Anaheim Hills, even the 909.
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Calling it “OC Wine Mart on steroids”, she will include everything the existing locale carries, plus the addition of a deli (with assistance from her spouse) and craft beer on tap. Lim hopes to inject a much needed infusion of energy to the sleepy town of Yorba Linda. It's also down the street from her casa. We will certainly drink to that.
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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.