PREGO RISTORANTE HOSTS CHEF/AUTHOR CATHY THOMAS FOR FIVE-COURSE WINE DINNER WITH GREG NORMAN ESTATES

Chef Ugo Allesina incorporates Chef Thomas’ recipes into 5-course wine dinner

Friday, July 16 | 6 p.m.

IRVINE, June 2010 – Prego Ristorante’s Chef Ugo Allesina will blend his own traditional Italian cooking with recipes from Cathy Thomas’ acclaimed cookbook, “Melissa’s Everyday Cooking with Organic Produce,” for a special five-course wine dinner on Friday, July 16. Hosted by Prego Owners Tony and Ruth Bedi, each course will be paired with treasured wines from Greg Norman Estates.

A cocktail reception and book-signing session with Cathy Thomas will begin at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The dinner, priced at $54.95 per guest (excluding tax & gratuity), will end with Cathy Thomas’ Fichi al Porto e Caprino (fig and port wine sauce topped with goat cheese), paired with Greg Norman Zinfandel . For more information or reservations, call 949.553.1333.

6 p.m. Cocktail Reception & Book-Signing Event

Cathy Thomas will hold a book signing of her second book, “Melissa’s Everyday Cooking with Organic Produce,” released last month, and already selected as one of NPR's “Top Ten Books of the Summer” and recipient of a Starred Review by Publishers Weekly. The reception will include a pre-dinner sampling of the season's best organic fruits and vegetables by nationally recognized produce expert Robert Schueller of Melissa’s Worldwide Produce.

7 p.m. Wine Dinner

Canapé Assortiti
Assorted Canapé
Greg Norman, Sparkling

Souffle`di Spinaci
Spinach and Parmigiano soufflé with garlic, and tomatoes velouté
Greg Norman, Sauvignon Blanc `08

Crespelle alla Moda
Homemade crepes filled with fontina cheese, porcini mushrooms, ham,
served with creamy béchamel sauce and Parmigiano
Greg Norman, Pinot Noir `08

Maiale con Ciliege (Cathy Thomas) PHOTO ATTACHED
Grilled pork loin served with cherry relish, whipped potatoes and eggplant timballo
Greg Norman, Cabernet Reserve `03

Fichi al Porto e Caprino (Cathy Thomas) PHOTO ATTACHED
Fig and port wine sauce topped with Goat Cheese
Greg Norman, Zinfandel

For more information or reservations, call 949.553.1333 or visit www.pregoristoranti.com.

About Cathy Thomas, Award-Winning Columnist, Author, On-Air Host
According to Cathy Thomas, part of the fun of cooking and entertaining is creating delectable dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s been the focal point of her cooking classes and award-winning newspaper features for over two decades. Her quick-to-prepare recipes showcase flavorful ingredients, relying on fresh fruits and vegetables to make each dish colorful and delicious. Her first book, “Melissa’s Great Book of Produce” (Wiley, $29.95) demystifies the glorious array of fruits and vegetables that are available in the marketplace. Her second book, launched in May 2010, “Melissa’s Everyday Cooking with Organic Produce” has received rave reviews.

Cathy is the food columnist at the Orange County Register. Her weekly columns and food features are nationally distributed on the McClatchy Tribune News Wire and frequently appear in newspaper food sections across the country. She won the first place award as the best food columnist in the nation from the Association of Food Journalists (in the large newspaper division).

About Prego Ristorante
Prego has all that one could wish for in a fine Italian restaurant; an elegant, yet comfortable atmosphere, attentive service and cuisine that strikes the perfect balance between traditional authenticity and innovative preparations. It's the perfect setting in which to enjoy good conversation and feast on the best cuisine that Italy has to offer.

Adding a splash of Mediterranean color to California, Prego's ambience blends the warmth and rustic charm of old-world Italy with the electricity and vibrance of a cosmopolitan restaurant. Streamlined arches and columns, gleaming copper, polished hardwood floors and an abundance of Cherrywood furnishings produce an elegant and sophisticated, yet comfortable, atmosphere. A lively exhibition kitchen allows diners to view the artful chefs creating their delicious dishes. With a capacity to seat between 150 and 250 guests, Prego features al fresco dining, full bar, banquet rooms and catering services.

Executive Chef & Partner, Ugo Allesina, brings more than 25 years of experience to his position. Born and raised in the region of Piemonte, Italy, his experience at a number of prestigious hotels and restaurants in Italy, Germany and the United States has enabled him to develop his outstanding skills as a premiere Chef of Northern Italian cuisine.

The menu emphasizes regional Italian cuisine, featuring authentic pizza baked in a wood-fired oven, freshly made pastas, grilled fresh fish, spit-roasted meats and fowl, and an extensive list of wines from Italy and California that will please even the most discriminating wine connoisseur. Homemade desserts and pastries make a perfect ending to an unforgettable dining experience. Prego has received fine-dining awards from the Restaurant Writers' Association and the Wine and Food Society of Southern California. It has been a culinary destination for more than two decades.

Prego Ristorante is open for lunch and dinner daily and is located at 18420 Von Karman Ave in Irvine. For more information or reservations, call 949.553.1333 or visit www.pregoristoranti.com.

Free 4th of July Tacos at SOL Cocina

Come Fourth to SOL to Celebrate Your
Independence with Liberty & Tacos For ALL

NEWPORT BEACH – This Fourth of July, Newport Beach’s SOL Cocina will be exercising its freedom to treat those who stop by any time between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to a complimentary SOL signature Carne Asada Street Taco, which, with freshness and character, delivers big flavors in small bites! The Carne Asada Street Taco, prepared with Meyer Prime beef grilled with garlic and coarse salt, will be offered to all guests with no purchase necessary, while supplies last. SOL will also offer $3 Pacifico beers in conjunction with the Street Taco promotion. Note, that SOL is open for normal business hours on July 4 and 5.

The restaurant’s location at the Balboa Marina induces the perfect ambiance for those wanting to enjoy the holiday, offering Weekend Brunch (10 a.m. – 3 p.m. every Saturday & Sunday) and Happy Hour (3 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily).

“Our goal is to share something special with those out and about on the Fourth of July,” remarks Deborah Schneider, Executive Chef/Partner at SOL Cocina, adding from her latest book, Amor y Tacos. “In Mexico, taco stands offer meltingly tender-braised meats, juicy and savory with chile and tomato—a perfect morning pick-me-up. At midday the streets fill with the wonderful smells of grilling carne asada and chickens smoke-roasting over wood… this is what we want to replicate on this holiday.”

Those wanting to spend their holiday in a relaxing environment are invited to take advantage of SOL Cocina’s Happy Hour menu (3 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily), which includes specially priced Antojitos in the bar/lounge, as well as the following beverage specials:

BEBIDAS
sol house margarita ~ $5
any beer, imported or domestic ~ $3
any wine by the glass ~ $3 off
well drinks ~ $5
blanco tequila shots, selected labels ~ $6
tequila flights, selected labels ~ $10

Full menus can be found online at http://www.solcocina.com/menu.html.

ABOUT SOL COCINA
SOL Cocina is a unique restaurant and bar celebrating traditional Baja cuisine with a fresh, modern interpretation. Designed to echo the expansive sea, sky, and desert of the Baja peninsula, SOL features old world charm juxtaposed with an urban comfort, including an open exhibition kitchen with counter seating for guests who like to see the bustling kitchen that mimics the Baja taco bar. SOL offers a decadent menu of the freshest seasonal ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors, along with a vibrant bar that honors the flavors of the Baja region with artisan tequilas and mezcals.

Located at 251 E. Coast Highway at the Balboa Marina, SOL is open daily for Lunch (11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.), Dinner (Mon-Wed 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Thurs-Sun 4:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.), Happy Hour (3 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily; bar open till 2 a.m. daily), Late-Night Dining (11 p.m. – 1 a.m. Thurs-Sat), and Weekend Brunch (10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday & Sunday). Private Room available.

For more information, call 949.675.9800 or visit http://www.solcocina.com/.

RA Sushi will be pouring a signature Stars and Stripes Martini this 4th of July

RA Sushi Celebrates July Fourth with Stars and Stripes Martini
Seasonal Cocktail Toasts to Independence

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (June 28, 2010) – Celebrate Independence Day with a Stars and Stripes Martini, a refreshing patriotic cocktail offered at both Orange County RA Sushi locations Fourth of July weekend. From Friday, July 2 to Sunday, July 4 cool off from the summer heat at RA Sushi with a Stars and Stripes Martini ($7), or shake up this recipe for a Fourth of July pool party.

The Stars and Stripes Martini is a light and crisp blend of summer fruit, including lemon, raspberries and blueberries. A festive, striped cocktail it is the ideal all-American drink for toasting to independence!

Stars and Stripes Martini Recipe (1 serving)
Muddled blueberries
1.5 oz. SKYY Citrus Vodka
¼ oz. Blue Curacao
¼ oz. Chambord raspberry liqueur
½ oz. simple syrup
1 oz. lemonade
Splash lemon-lime soda
2 juiced lemons

Muddle blueberries with the Blue Curacao in a martini glass. Place a lemon wheel slice over mixture. Pour vodka, simple syrup, a splash of lemon-lime soda, and lemon juice in a martini shaker. Shake and strain over the lemon in a martini glass. The mixture will layer. Drizzle Chambord down the side of the glass. It will layer in between the vodka and blueberry mixture creating a striped appearance; garnish will float to top.

About RA Sushi
RA Sushi Bar Restaurant, an upbeat, unconventional sushi bar, opened its first location in Old Town Scottsdale, Ariz. in October 1997. RA is best known for successfully combining distinctive sushi with a trendy, hip atmosphere. Fresh sushi is served to order along with outstanding Japanese-fusion cuisine in a fun, lively environment. The result is a place that is both unpretentious and fashionable. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner is served until 11 p.m. daily. The bar is open until 1 a.m. or later. Happy Hour food and beverage specials are offered Monday through Saturday, 3 to 7 p.m.

RA has 25 locations across the country. Enjoy RA Sushi in Arizona (Ahwatukee, Mesa, North Scottsdale, South Scottsdale, Tempe and Tucson); California (Chino Hills, Corona, Huntington Beach, San Diego, Torrance and Tustin); Florida (Palm Beach Gardens, Pembroke Pines and South Miami); Georgia (Atlanta); Illinois (Chicago, Glenview and Lombard); Kansas (Leawood); Maryland (Baltimore); Nevada (Las Vegas); and Texas (two Houston locations and Plano). Look for RA on Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. For more information visit RA online at www.RAsushi.com.

Prego Ristorante launches new brunch

Prego Ristorante's New Weekend Brunch Hits The Spot

Sat & Sun Brunch brings new business with bottomless Bloody Marys & Mimosas offerings


IRVINE, June 2010 – Prego Ristorante Owners Ruth and Tony Bedi recently introduced a weekend brunch menu to be offered every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., but never expected to see an increase in business so quickly.

“Weekend Brunch is one of my favorite ways to relax with family and friends, so it has always been a goal to launch one to be offered both Saturday and Sunday at Prego,” commented Ruth Bedi, who took ownership with her husband, Tony, in early 2009. “We had a feeling that by offering bottomless bloody marys and mimosas for only $6.50, we would lure quite a few people in for our new weekend brunch, but in its first two weeks, we have seen so many new faces that come in for the delicious brunch items on the menu.”

The Weekend Brunch menu, created by Executive Chef Ugo Allesina, offers a variety of egg entrées, including omelets, eggs benedict and frittatas, along with vanilla French toast, Belgian waffles and “Prego-style” beignets. Prego continues to serve its lunch menu in addition to the new brunch offering from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Following are the new weekend brunch menu offerings:

Egg Entrées

Eggs Any Style Two eggs choice of bacon, ham, or sausage, served with breakfast potatoes

Create Your Own Omelet Ham, Fontina cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, mushroom and onions offered with breakfast potatoes

Shrimp & Asparagus Omelet Served with Hollandaise sauce and breakfast potatoes

Ham & Cheese Omelet Ham with choice of cheese

Sausage & Fontina Cheese Omelet

Classic Eggs Benedict Two poached eggs on toasted English muffin with choice of smoked ham, bacon or crab; topped with Hollandaise sauce and served with breakfast potatoes

Frittata MP Chef’s own egg creation baked in Prego’s stone-fire oven
Eggs Al Forno all ‘Olio Tartufato Two pan-fried eggs with breakfast sausage served with garlic bread and breakfast potatoes


Breakfast Entrées

Vanilla French Toast Two thick slices of white bread dipped in a rich vanilla egg batter, grilled golden and served with Mascarpone & fresh fruit

Belgian Waffle with Berries & Whipped Cream A crisp Belgian waffle topped with berries and whipped cream, served with old-fashioned maple syrup (photo attached)

Smoked Salmon with Crostini & Cream Cheese

Prego Style Beignets Five puffed pastries filled with Chantelle cream and drizzled with chocolate

For more information or reservations, call 949.553.1333 or visit www.pregoristoranti.com.

About Prego Ristorante
Prego has all that one could wish for in a fine Italian restaurant; an elegant, yet comfortable atmosphere, attentive service and cuisine that strikes the perfect balance between traditional authenticity and innovative preparations. It's the perfect setting in which to enjoy good conversation and feast on the best cuisine that Italy has to offer.

Adding a splash of Mediterranean color to California, Prego's ambience blends the warmth and rustic charm of old-world Italy with the electricity and vibrance of a cosmopolitan restaurant. Streamlined arches and columns, gleaming copper, polished hardwood floors and an abundance of Cherrywood furnishings produce an elegant and sophisticated, yet comfortable, atmosphere. A lively exhibition kitchen allows diners to view the artful chefs creating their delicious dishes. With a capacity to seat between 150 and 250 guests, Prego features al fresco dining, full bar, banquet rooms and catering services.

Executive Chef & Partner, Ugo Allesina, brings more than 25 years of experience to his position. Born and raised in the region of Piemonte, Italy, his experience at a number of prestigious hotels and restaurants in Italy, Germany and the United States has enabled him to develop his outstanding skills as a premiere Chef of Northern Italian cuisine.

The menu emphasizes regional Italian cuisine, featuring authentic pizza baked in a wood-fired oven, freshly made pastas, grilled fresh fish, spit-roasted meats and fowl, and an extensive list of wines from Italy and California that will please even the most discriminating wine connoisseur. Homemade desserts and pastries make a perfect ending to an unforgettable dining experience. Prego has received fine-dining awards from the Restaurant Writers' Association and the Wine and Food Society of Southern California. It has been a culinary destination for more than two decades.

Prego Ristorante is open for lunch and dinner daily and is located at 18420 Von Karman Ave in Irvine. For more information or reservations, call 949.553.1333 or visit www.pregoristoranti.com.

Summer Menu at Haven Gastropub Brings New Menu Options to O.C. Diners

Orange, CA (June 2010) – Recently featured as one of three gastropubs in the country to rank among “2010’s Best New Gastropubs” by Draft Magazine, Haven Gastropub in Orange has launched a summer menu that is refreshing and stays true to the concept of serving quality “gourmet comfort food.” Executive Chef/Partner, Greg Daniels, is introducing innovative menu items, ranging from beer-battered, lobster-chevre mousse-filled Squash Blossoms to a hearty Chicken n’ Waffles entrée with fried chicken and cornmeal waffles served with housemade hot sauce and bärenjäger maple syrup.

Among Chef Daniels’ menu additions (full menu at http://www.havengastropub.com/eat.html):

o Chile Relleno – chorizo, rice, pepper jack cheese, pecan crema, roasted corn salad

o Squash Blossoms – lobster-chevre mousse, beer-battered, balsamic reduction, parsley oil, rouille

o Smoked Duck Salad – mesclun, micro herbs & flowers, candied walnuts, toasted walnut oil

o Pulled Pork Sandwich – bbq-infused roll, chipotle aïoli, warm apple-cabbage slaw

o Arctic Char – wilted rainbow swiss chard, russet potato planks, Spanish chorizo dust, crispy fish skin

o Chicken n’ Waffles – fried chicken, cornmeal waffle, haven-made hot sauce, bärenjäger maple syrup (PHOTO ATTACHED)

According to Managing Partner/Beverage Director, Wil Dee, each new menu item can be paired with one of the 14 beers always present on draft or one of more than 60 bottled craft beers. Dee adds that many of the dishes pair nicely with Haven’s selection of unique spirits and worldly wine list, with nearly 50 wines by the glass.

Haven Gastropub’s menu can be found online at http://www.havengastropub.com/eat.html.

ABOUT HAVEN GASTROPUB
Located in the heart of Historic Old Towne Orange, Haven Gastropub is a unique concept where “pub meets gourmet grub.” Recently named “Best New Gastropub” by Draft Magazine, which touted it as one of three new restaurants across the country that have “breathed new life into the old gastropub concept.” Gastropub, a British term blending gastronomy and pub, sprouted in the 1990s and has seen a revival as the idea behind the concept was to provide a place where friends and family could gather in a warm comfortable setting and enjoy good conversation with quality food and spirited libations. Haven boasts 14 beers on draft and more than 60 bottled craft beers. In addition, Haven serves more than 50 specialty single-malt whiskeys, scotches and bourbons; and a worldly wine list, with nearly 50 wines by the glass. Almost every dish on the menu has a beer or wine pairing suggestion.

The menu, created by Le Cordon Bleu-trained Executive Chef/Partner Greg Daniels, offers a blend of old world European fare with a modern American twist. Under the tutelage of Pascal Olhats of Tradition by Pascal, and then on to Napa Rose with Andrew Sutton, Chef Daniels learned what it means to feed people great food. The result is a refreshing combination of treasured dishes from across the pond fused with familiar stateside staples from the Pulled-Pork Sandwich served on a barbeque sauce-infused roll and pan-seared Hangar Steak with herbed compound butter, to Mac n’ Cheese with black truffles and hearty Chicken n’ Waffles served with housemade hot sauce and bärenjäger maple syrup.

Each menu item is made using farm-to-table fresh ingredients with dishes prepared entirely from scratch, including the award-winning Haven Burger, piled high with roasted red bell peppers, wild arugula, pickled red onions and St. Agur blue cheese; and housemade Salt & Vinegar Chips of red wine vinegar and sea salt and truffle fries served with garlic aïoli dipping sauce or housemade ketchup, also Haven’s own. The affordably priced menu ($5-$20), will also entice with a full selection of delectable desserts, including noteworthy ice creams flavors, including candied bacon, salted caramel and tobacco-infused.

Paired to elevate and complement the overall dining experience, handcrafted microbrews including Belgian varieties are offered alongside a distinct selection of boutique wines, scotches, whiskeys and bourbons. No less than fourteen handcrafted beers flow on regularly rotating taps, including Weihenstephaner Original Lager from the world’s oldest brewery (Est.1040).

Haven Gastropub is located at 190 South Glassell Street in Old Towne Orange. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. daily. Walk-ins welcome. For more information or to make reservations, call 714.221.0680 or visit http://www.havengastropub.com (on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/HavenGastropub).

EVENT: GIRLS NIGHT OUT AT KIMERA RESTAURANT

TO BENEFIT THE SUSAN G. KOMEN FOUNDATION


· Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. Kimera Restaurant and Lounge will host a special Girls Night Out event in partnership with SwimSpot!

· This unique event will feature a raffle and silent auction with all proceeds to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The various raffle and auction items will be donated by Equinox, Swimspot, Kimera, and many other local businesses.

· The event will also include an informal SwimSpot Fashion show, featuring 10 different swimsuit lines! SwimSpot is a pop-up boutique that carries the hottest trends in swimwear. Their latest boutique is located in the Irvine Spectrum Center.

· A special three-course prix-fixe dinner menu will also be available with 25% of the proceeds going to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

· Drink specials will also be available, including Leblon Caipirinha’s and other Leblon alcohol cocktails that will be available for only $6 each.

· Come hang out with the girls and dance the night away for a great cause while a DJ spins the latest hits.

· Kimera has multiple seating areas including outdoor and indoor dining, as well as a stylish lounge bar area to suit any mood.

· Complimentary valet parking will also be available.

DATE: Tuesday, June 29th, 2010

TIME: Girls Night Out begins at 5:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Kimera Restaurant

19530 Jamboree Road

Irvine, CA 92612


RESERVATIONS: (949) 261-1222


WEBSITE: www.diningasart.com


COST: Free

Meet Cat Cora and Lloyd Boston at Macy's South Coast Plaza

WHAT:
Macy’s welcomes Iron Chef America’s first and only female Iron Chef, Chef Cat Cora, and America’s favorite “Style Guy” and Lifestyle TV Host, Lloyd Boston.

Cat and Lloyd will teach you how to wine-and-dine effortlessly!

WHO:
Chef Cat Cora, who launched Macy’s exclusive CCQ (Cat Cora’s Que), at Macy’s new Signature Kitchen Restaurant in California’s South Coast Plaza, has authored two cookbooks, Cat Cora’s Kitchen and Cooking from the Hip: Fast, Easy, Phenomenal Meals. She is introducing her new cookbook Classics With a Twist: Fresh Takes on Favorite Dishes. To keep kids of all ages at the table and preserve the tradition of family dinner, Cat will show you how to simplify complicated classic recipes with quick, healthy twists! After the demo, Cat will sign copies of her book.

Lloyd Boston will join Cat to dish out great advice on everything from what to wear to talk-of-the-town table-setting ideas for any occasion – they will give you the tools to ensure your next dinner party is a smashing success!

WHEN:
Monday, June 21, 2010 @ 6:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Macy’s South Coast Plaza, The Cellar, Level 1
3333 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

RSVP:
877-884-3751

For additional information about Macy’s Culinary Council: Visit www.macys.com/culinarycouncil

Father's Day 2010 Specials at OC Restaurants

FATHER’S DAY SPECIALS FOR SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 2010:

Restaurant: Haven Gastropub

Address: 190 S. Glassell Street, Orange, CA 92866

Phone: 714-221-0680

Website: http://www.havengastropub.com

Hours: 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.

Father's Day Special: Let Haven Gastropub's Executive Chef/Partner Greg Daniels let you treat Dad to “gourmet comfort food” that has earned this restaurant some significant attention. Don’t forget that each dish can be paired each course with a craft beer; cocktail (Haven offers a full bar with a tremendous selection of specialty single-malt whiskeys), malt scotches and bourbons; or one of 48 wines by the glass!

*****

Restaurant: SOL Cocina

Address: 251 East Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Phone: 949-675-9800

Website: http://www.solcocina.com

Hours: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (brunch); 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (lunch); and 4:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Father's Day Special: Bring Dad in on Father’s Day for Sunday Brunch or a special lunch or dinner from a menu created by Executive Chef Deborah Schneider!

*****

Restaurant: LUCCA

Address: 6507 Quail Hill Parkway (Quail Hill Village Center), Irvine, CA 92603

Phone: 949-725-1773

Website: http://www.luccacafe.com

Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (brunch) and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (dinner)

Father's Day Special: This Father’s Day, LUCCA will features something Dad can enjoy with the entire family: an extravagant brunch buffet and with its usual special deal for children under 12 by allowing them to pay according to their age! The popular Father’s Day brunch buffet will feature a full buffet with a wide variety of options, including items from an egg and omelet station, featuring local, cage-free eggs; and a deluxe carving station with certified Angus beef tri-tip and Diestel free-range turkey breast. The Father’s Day brunch buffet is $29.95 for adults ($24.95 without Champagne).
For those looking for something for Dad to really sink his teeth into, LUCCA will showcase its acclaimed food with Father’s Day dinner specials of fresh seasonal salads, entrée specials, and most especially, a selection of LUCCA’s favorite Euro mini pastries!

*****

Restaurant: The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar

Address: 2647 Park Avenue, Tustin, CA 92782

Phone: 714-258-7600

Website: http://www.thewineryrestaurant.net

Hours: 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Father's Day Special: Celebration Father’s Day at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, named “Restaurant of the Year” by the OC Concierge Association the past two years. Enjoy contemporary California regional cuisine, in a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, for a cutting-edge dining experience. The Winery has planned a very special Father's Day, complete with dinner specials including Prime Rib, New Zealand Elk Chop, Grilled Lobster, and many more, courtesy of Executive Chef/Partner, Yvon Goetz (who is also a proud father!). Reservations recommended: 714.258.7600.

*****

Restaurant: Don the Beachcomber

Address: 16278 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Phone: 562-592-1321

Website: http://www.donthebeachcomber.com

Hours: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Father's Day Special: Don the Beachcomber offers an alternative to the boring tie – how ‘bout a MAI TAI? Treat Dad to a Father’s Day BBQ Brunch with bottomess draft beer from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 20. Dad has an option of two seatings, 10 a.m. and noon, both featuring Tapua shows and live FIRE dancers! As part of the barbeque brunch, Dad can really sink his teeth into Fried Chicken, Skirt Steak, Grilled Salmon, Baby Back Ribs, Sliders, Polish Sausages and Rocky Mountain Oysters. There will be a variety of sides and a large selection of scrumptious desserts! All Dads to receive a free gift. Reservations required by calling 562-592-1321. Dinner menu served from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

*****

Restaurant: Prego Ristorante

Address: 18420 Von Karman Avenue, Irvine, CA 92612

Phone: 949-553-1333

Website: http://www.pregoristoranti.com

Hours: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Father's Day Special: This Father's Day, bring your family to PREGO for a Father’s Day brunch! From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition to bottomless bloody marys and mimosas for only $6.50, the menu offers a variety of egg entrées, including omelets, eggs benedict and frittatas, along with vanilla French toast, Belgian waffles and “Prego-style” beignets. Prego will serve its lunch menu in addition to the new brunch offering from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. For reservations, call 949.553.1333.

Kids Restaurant Week

KIDS RESTAURANT WEEK, JUNE 27 – JULY 3

* PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS REVEAL MENUS

*OFFICIAL KIDS RESTAURANT WEEK LAUNCH PARTY AT
THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY | SAT, JUNE 26

*FAMILY SUNDAY FUNDAY AT DON THE BEACHCOMBER | SUN, JUNE 27

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., June 2010 – The Orange County Restaurant Association, Inc. has released the final list of restaurants and menus for Orange County’s first-ever Kids Restaurant Week, focused on celebrating dining out as a family. Scheduled for Sunday, June 27 – Saturday, July 3, families throughout the county will have the opportunity to enjoy delicious and fun family dining at OC’s best restaurants. During the weeklong inaugural event, participating restaurants will feature special dining deals, such as family-style prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner, while others will offer Kids Eat Free. A portion of the proceeds from the week’s food sales will benefit Share our Strength (www.Strength.org) to support in ending childhood hunger.

Following is a list of confirmed restaurants (subject to change; a full list of restaurants and menus can be found online at http://www.kidsrestaurantweek.org/ParticipatingRestaurants.html; those pasted below include name, city and hyperlink to menu):

118 Degrees - Costa Mesa

Anaheim White House - Anaheim

Ayumi Sushi and Grill - Huntington Beach

Beach Pit BBQ - Costa Mesa

Beach Pit BBQ - Tustin

Beach Pit BBQ - Orange

Bluewater Grill - Newport Beach

Bluewater Grill - Tustin

Brasserie Pascal - Newport Beach

California Pizza Kitchen - Anaheim Garden Walk

Cedar Creek - Brea

Cedar Creek - Laguna Niguel

Cedar Creek - San Juan Capistrano

Chaparosa Grill - Laguna Niguel

Chaparosa Grill - Tustin

Chomp Rockin Sushi - Fullerton

Crystal Jade - Irvine

Don the Beachcomber - Huntington Beach

Fire and Ice - Anaheim Garden Walk

John's Incredible Pizza - Buena Park

JT Schmid's Restaurant and Brewery - Anaheim

JT Schmid's Restaurant and Brewery - Tustin

K'ya Street Fare - Anaheim

Lulu's Creperie Cafe - Laguna Hills

Marios by the Sea - Dana Point

Marmalade - Tustin

Marrakesh - Costa Mesa

Matador Cantina - Fullerton

Medieval Times - Buena Park

Newport Rib Company - Costa Mesa

Newport Rib Company - Ladera Ranch

Nirvana Grille - Laguna Beach

Nirvana Grille - Mission Viejo

Pat and Oscar's - Multiple Locations

Pirates Dinner Adventure - Buena Park

Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen - Anaheim

Redbrick Pizza - Multiple Locations

Riptide Sushi - Mission Viejo

Ruby's Diner - Multiple Locations

Salt Creek Grille - Dana Point

Savannah Chop House - Laguna Niguel

Steer Crazy - Capistrano Beach

Strike Bowling - Tustin 

The Beachcomber - Newport Beach

The Derby - Mission Viejo

The Melting Pot - Irvine

The Melting Pot - San Clemente

The Melting Pot - Brea

Which Wich - Santa Ana

Wingnuts - Aliso Viejo

Wingnuts - Costa Mesa

Zimzala - Huntington Beach

OFFICIAL KIDS RESTAURANT WEEK LAUNCH PARTY AT
THE DISTRICT AT TUSTIN LEGACY | SAT, JUNE 26

In addition, a Kids Restaurant Week launch party is set for Saturday, June 26th from noon to 4 p.m. at The District at Tustin Legacy (2437 Park Avenue, Tustin, CA 92782). This FREE event designed for the entire family will take place throughout The District Promenade (between AMC Tustin 14 and Borders Books & Music), where families can enjoy mini bounce houses, live music by The Rockaholix & Johnny Come Lately, face painting, balloon art, cupcake decorating, food tastings, interactive booths, and much more. Families will also be able to experience various activities and special offers throughout The District’s many stores and restaurants, with mascots on hand to lead the way.

The event will feature booths and giveaways from 92.7 Jill FM, OC Family, OC Metro, Anaheim/OC Visitor & Convention Bureau, Nirve Beach Cruisers, the Orange County Restaurant Association and Share our Strength. In addition, families may purchase a raffle ticket with one canned food item or $1 for a chance to win a Nirve Beach Cruiser, Knott's Berry Farm tickets, Wild Rivers Waterpark tickets, and other prizes.

Complete event details online at http://www.kidsrestaurantweek.org/Kids_Launch_Event.html.

The District at Tustin Legacy is Orange County’s newest shopping and entertainment destination. A 1-million-square-foot lifestyle center boasting a variety of entertainment, retail, and dining options. To learn more, visit http://www.thedistricttl.com.

FAMILY SUNDAY FUNDAY AT DON THE BEACHCOMBER | SUN, JUNE 27

The term “Sunday Funday” has been used by many to when referring to spending Sunday capping off the weekend with friends, food, cocktails and, oftentimes, exciting activities. Well, Kids Restaurant Week, is introducing FAMILY SUNDAY FUNDAY on Sunday, June 27 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Don the Beachcomber (16278 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92649 – in the legendary Sam’s Seafood location). This FREE event will be held in the restaurant’s Hidden Village, where families will be transported to a tropical wonderland featuring Tapua Hula classes, shaved ice stations, sugar dumplin’ making, indoor surf lessons by Katin and Tiki mask painting. Those interested should RSVP to mona@moxxepr.com.

Adults can take part in the free activities with their children and also enjoy Don’s famous Mai Tai for $4 or draft beers for $2. As part of Kids Restaurant Week, Don the Beachcomber invites kids 12 years & younger eat FREE with the purchase of one regular adult salad, sandwich or entrée during lunch (11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.) or dinner (4 p.m. - 9 p.m.) in the dining room area. Full Kids Restaurant Week menu online: http://www.kidsrestaurantweek.org/Don_The_Beach_Comber.html

For information on reservations and details on participating restaurants visit http://www.KidsRestaurantWeek.org.
The Orange County Restaurant Association will produce Kids Restaurant Week as an annual event, along with its biannual Orange County Restaurant Week and annual Happy Hour Week. For general information, or to learn about participation or sponsorship opportunities with the Orange County Restaurant Association, visit http://www.OCRestaurantAssociation.org.

Taste of Greece OC

Griffin from GriffinEatsOC just reminded about the Taste of Greece festival that is coming to Irvine on June 25th. Here are the details:




The 32nd Annual Taste of Greece Festival is returning to Irvine from June 25th-27th, 2010. The festival will be held at St. Paul's Greek Orthodox Church (4949 Alton Parkway, between Culver Drive and Jeffrey Road, Irvine, CA 92604). More than 11,000 quests are expected to attend the three-day festival, which will feature Greek cuisine, wine tasting, live music, authentic Greek dancing and boutique booths.

Festival Hours are 5:00 PM-10:00 PM on Friday and Noon to 10:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $3 per person. Seniors 65+ get in free on Saturday from Noon-5:00 PM. Children under 10 are always free.

SAGANAKI served with PITA BREAD

Kasseri Greek Cheese sautéed in butter, flamed with Brandy and finished with fresh lemon


LOUKANICO

Grilled homemade Greek Sausage served with Feta Cheese


DOLMATHES

Grape Leaves stuffed with a mixture of Lamb, Beef & fresh mint served with Avgolemono Sauce


GREEK SALAD

Mixture of Romaine & Iceberg Lettuce topped with red onion, cucumbers, red & green bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, with a herb vinaigrette


CHICKEN SOUVLAKI

Skewered Chicken seasoned with herbs marinated with olive oil and grilled to perfection, finished with fresh lemon juice


GRILLED LAMB CHOPS

(Affectionately known as ‘Greek Lollipops’)


PASTICHIO

(The Greeks version of Lasagna served with Béchamel Sauce)


SPANAKOPITA

A spinach pie laced with Feta Cheese & baked in a phyllo dough


TYROPITES

Three-Cheese filling baked in phyllo dough



DESSERT


BAKLAVA

Delicate flavors of pastry phyllo layered with Walnuts & Butter, drenched in a Cinnamon Honey Syrup


GALACTOBOURIKO

A sumptuous sweet egg custard layered with pastry phyllo and enveloped in a Honey Syrup


KOURAMBIETHES

(Powdered Sugar Butter Cookie)

A Butter Cookie traditionally served at festive occasions

(If it sticks to the roof of your mouth, it has been made correctly)

Welcome to Booze It Up OC!

Booze It Up OC is a new food blog that will be devoted to bringing you reviews of the best cocktails at Orange County area restaurants. We will also keep our readers informed of all the special food and beverage related events that are going on around Orange County.