The Dose

Trio of Italian Cuisine!

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By Greer Wylder
March 29, 2011

Ever since Cucina Alessa brought its Italian cuisine goodness to Laguna Beach, when it opened its third location in November, we feel that the coast has been well fed thanks to Chef Alessandro Pirozzi who owns the original Cucina Alessa in West Newport Beach and in Huntington Beach. The Laguna Beach restaurant boasts a prosciutto-and-mozzarella bar (like its Newport Beach location) and serves nearly the same menu—minus a few dishes and no breakfast. Expect the same delicious homemade pastas that Alessa is famous for (even whole wheat upon request), reasonable prices and big helpings. Allessandro divides his time between the…

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Chef Ren at Rustica on Greer’s OC TV!

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By Greer Wylder
March 28, 2011

Greer meets Chef Ren at Rustica Wine Bistro at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, where he shares his cooking experiences, favorite dishes, and takes us into his kitchen to cook brioche-crusted diver sea scallops with cauliflower puree. Watch here on Greer’s OC TV. It’s no secret that the best chefs incorporate the season’s freshest produce to their dishes. And spring means fresh new flavors at Rustica. Chef Ren just rolled out a new farm-fresh lunch and dinner menu, which includes spring vegetable ragout, homemade English pea ravioli, morel cream, artichoke barigoule, Weiser Farm carrots, char-grilled asparagus, stuffed squash blossoms, fresh…

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Dining For Japan

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By Greer Wylder
March 25, 2011

As a native of Yamagata, Japan, master chef Takashi Abe at Bluefin in Newport Coast is contributing a special all-you-can-eat fundraising brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. All proceeds will benefit the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan through the American Red Cross Japanese Disaster Relief Fund. At the buffet-style brunch, you can choose from three seatings at 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. Bluefin is asking for a minimum $50 donation per person, and 100% of the donation is tax deductible. Choose from appetizers, sushi, rolls and grilled items, as well as soda, beer and sake. Bluefin…

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Weekend: Two Sides of SoCal!

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By Greer Wylder
March 24, 2011

Sometimes nothing sounds better than sun, sand, sea and a comfortable pair of flip-flops. But at other times you may crave an urban escape, with chic shopping and fine dining. Fortunately, Montage has created a pair of inspiring Southern California retreats that cater to both sides of your personality. Both offer artful accommodations, transcendent spa experiences, delectably creative cuisine and gracious, highly personalized service. Yet each offers a decidedly different ambiance, capturing the authentic spirit of its unique location. Learn more about current Specials for Neighbors available at Montage Laguna Beach and Montage Beverly Hills. Also, find out more about…

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Over the Moon!

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By Greer Wylder
March 23, 2011

When it comes to seeking hard-to-find designers in one boutique, 11th Moon in Laguna Beach has nailed it. This mother (Virginia Cooke) and daughters run store is a fashionista’s oasis. The handpicked labels and pieces are unique and special--choose from great apparel, shoes, scarves, jewelry, wallets and accessories. If you haven’t discovered 11th Moon yet, it will easily become a fave shopping spot. And now you can save on coveted items: select boots, shoes, sweaters, skirts and pants are reduced 50%. And if you purchase two items reduced 50%, you’ll receive an extra 10% off too. Choose from designers including…

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