Blog
Where to Celebrate the Fourth of July in Orange County
06.24.25
From poolside parties to fireworks views and premium meats for the grill, these festive picks offer something for everyone this Independence Day.
The Fourth of July is almost here, and these standout celebrations and patriotic food finds are ready to spark joy this holiday weekend. From a lively “Grill & Chill” pool party at Hilton Irvine to front-row Disneyland fireworks at Calaca Mamas Cantina and the grand opening of The Butchery in Manhattan Beach, here are a few ways to eat, play, and celebrate—whether you’re staying local or heading to the coast.
Celebrate Independence Day at Hilton Irvine with a Poolside “Grill & Chill” Bash
Hilton Irvine invites locals and guests alike to a star-spangled summer celebration on Saturday, July 5, from noon to 4 p.m. Dive into the holiday weekend with live music, festive games like cornhole and giant ping pong, and all-American BBQ classics—burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, and more. Cool off in the pool or relax on the deck with friends and family. Space is limited. Reserve your spot at Hilton Irvine.
18800 MacArthur Blvd, Irvine, CA 92612
Front-Row Fireworks and Tabletop Sparklers at Calaca Mamas Cantina
Located across from Disneyland Resort, Calaca Mamas Cantina in Anaheim offers a front-row seat to the park’s 4th of July fireworks—no ticket required. Enjoy organic Mexican-fusion cuisine and festive cocktails on the patio, then end the night with homemade churros, served tableside with a lit sparkler for your own mini fireworks display.
1550 S. Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802 | (714) 215-4226
Now Open: The Butchery in Manhattan Beach
Southern California’s favorite neighborhood butcher just opened a new location in Manhattan Beach—just in time for the 4th of July. Known for premium meats, marinated steak tips, house-made sausages, and curated gourmet goods, The Butchery is a one-stop shop for elevated backyard BBQs.
1121 Artesia Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA | Other locations in Costa Mesa and Crystal Cove
For more information, visit butcherymeats.com.
Blog
New Chapter for Sushi Ii: Acclaimed Chefs Join MICHELIN-Recognized Kitchen
06.23.25
Sushi Ii, the MICHELIN-recognized Japanese restaurant on Mariner’s Mile, continues its legacy as one of Southern California’s premier Japanese dining destinations with the addition of two accomplished chefs, Koji Takahashi and Norio Izawa.
Both chefs bring decades of experience rooted in traditional Japanese technique and a shared commitment to the restaurant’s refined, thoughtful approach. Chef Takahashi, who has been with Sushi Ii since its inception, leads the restaurant’s kaiseki program. With nearly 40 years of experience, he blends time-honored methods with a modern sensibility, offering a multi-course experience that reflects what diners in Japan are enjoying today.
Joining him is Chef Izawa, whose training spans renowned kaiseki restaurants in Tokyo and Kanazawa. Since relocating to the U.S. in 1999, he has honed his craft at Bluefin in Newport Beach and Nobu in New York. At Sushi Ii, he now oversees the kitchen, elevating traditional ingredients with inventive presentation—dishes like sautéed belt fish with lily bulb cream sauce and green tea cream puffs paired with toasted brown tea reflect his blend of creativity and reverence.
Under the guidance of Director Natsuko Travioli, Sushi Ii remains true to its vision. From the curated ceramics to the intimate counter seating, every detail reflects a deep respect for Japanese culture and craftsmanship.
Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m., Sushi Ii has been featured in the MICHELIN Guide every year since opening. For reservations and more information, visit sushi-ii.com.
100 West Coast Highway, Suite 202 in Newport Beach.
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from the blog
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- 07.21.25 – Gala of the Stars Returns to the Irvine Barclay Theatre
