Chef Zach Ficke, executive chef and owner of Salt & Lime Modern Taqueria in Costa Mesa, is one of Orange County’s most talented and ambitious young chefs. Born and raised in Aliso Viejo, Ficke’s passion for cooking started early. While studying business economics at UC Irvine, he ran an underground dining club in his dorm, selling tickets to multi-course dinners he created himself. Realizing business school wasn’t his path, he transferred to a culinary school in Chicago and later earned a bachelor’s degree in food service management in Providence, Rhode Island.

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The District at Tustin Legacy is getting into the fall spirit with two festive events this October: the Halloween Boo Bash and the Fall Cocktail Tour. Families are invited to the annual Halloween Boo Bash on Saturday, Oct. 25, from noon to 2 p.m. in the Promenade. The free, family-friendly celebration features trick-or-treating, music, creepy crafts, balloon twisters, face painting, and a special meet-and-greet with Labubu. Costumes are encouraged, and guests are welcome to explore The District’s shops, restaurants, and entertainment before or after the event.

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I’ve been on a mission to try more local restaurants that I haven’t experienced before, and Chiang Rai Thai in Tustin has been at the top of my list. It’s a buzz-worthy spot and for good reason. The restaurant has earned Michelin recognition three years in a row, in 2022, 2023 and 2024. This Tustin location opened earlier this year, while the original Chiang Rai Thai has been winning over diners in Long Beach for years. Word is definitely out, as the restaurant is almost always packed. Hot tip: join the waitlist on Yelp before you arrive. You’ll need to be within four miles of the restaurant to add your name, but it’s a great way to time your visit so the wait is short.

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Authentic Afghan cuisine isn’t easy to find in Orange County. Ever since I tried the incredible dishes at Kor Kitchen in San Luis Obispo, I’ve been on a mission to find Afghan food closer to home. Gratefully, I discovered Chili Chutney Afghan Restaurant in Lake Forest, new to me but serving loyal guests since 2009.

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