The countdown is on for Orange County to celebrate the Fourth of July in unforgettable style. Whether you're looking for ocean views, a waterfront dinner, or a classic barbecue bash, I’ve rounded up some of the most festive and unique ways to enjoy Independence Day across the region.
Truly one of the most special hotels in Orange County, the Surf & Sand in Laguna Beach, an iconic oceanfront resort, has completed its highly anticipated property-wide transformation, unveiling redesigned guest rooms and suites, a striking new lobby and lounge, refreshed dining and spa experiences, and upgraded conference and event spaces. The reimagined Surf & Sand highlights one of Southern California’s most picturesque stretches of coastline, with panoramic ocean views featured throughout the resort.
The wait is almost over. RELISH, the premier food, wine and spirits experience created by celebrity chef Jamie Gwen and celebrity event planner Nicole Hirsty, makes its grand debut Friday, June 27, through Sunday, June 29, at VEA Newport Beach Resort & Spa. The luxurious weekend brings together world-class chefs, master mixologists, and award-winning winemakers for an unforgettable celebration of culinary artistry.
Expanding its Orange County presence, Sweetgreen is set to open its 5th location in the region tomorrow, Tuesday, June 17, at Laguna Niguel’s Plaza de la Paz center (27221 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677). O.C. diners are invited to indulge in the restaurant’s menu of thoughtfully sourced, scratch-made meals, and enjoy complimentary activations with local partners. Sweetgreen will also match every meal sold with a donated meal to Laguna Food Pantry to nourish people in Laguna Beach experiencing food insecurity.
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.
Expanding its Orange County presence, Sweetgreen is set to open its 5th location in the region tomorrow, Tuesday, June 17, at Laguna Niguel’s Plaza de la Paz center (27221 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677). O.C. diners are invited to indulge in the restaurant’s menu of thoughtfully sourced, scratch-made meals, and enjoy complimentary activations with local partners. Sweetgreen will also match every meal sold with a donated meal to Laguna Food Pantry to nourish people in Laguna Beach experiencing food insecurity.
Now open at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa, Casa de Onda is a sophisticated new destination for Mexican American fusion, coastal-inspired cocktails, and al fresco dining under the stars. Translating to “house of vibes,” the restaurant debuted Saturday, June 21, with nightly dinner service and a live DJ starting at 8 p.m.
Anaheim Packing District’s annual World Taste returns Wednesday, July 16, offering a culinary passport to flavors from around the globe. From 5 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy an international tasting experience while listening to live music, sipping craft beer, joining trivia games, and even sketching on-site.
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