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Free Outdoor Movies and More This Spring at Irvine Spectrum Center

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By Greer Wylder
March 31, 2025

As the weather warms up, Irvine Spectrum Center is the place to be for weekend fun—offering endless ways to enjoy spring days and make lasting memories. Orange County’s open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination comes alive this season with free outdoor events perfect for family outings, date nights, and catching up with friends.From movie nights under the stars to live music in the open air, Irvine Spectrum Center has something for everyone this spring.Here’s a look at what’s coming up:Movies Under the Stars – FreeLocation: Giant Wheel LawnDate: Every Saturday through May 17Time: 7 p.m.Bring a blanket, lawn chair, and…

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Puesto Welcomes Spring With Seasonal Dishes From Creative Chef Raul Casillas

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By Greer Wylder
March 31, 2025

Puesto is welcoming spring with new seasonal menu additions from Creative Chef Raul Casillas, available now at all three Orange County locations in Anaheim and Irvine. A beloved family-owned brand with eight restaurants and three stadium locations across California, Puesto’s latest chapter includes a refreshed culinary direction led by Chef Casillas, who brings decades of experience and a deep love for regional Mexican cuisine and culture.Casillas, who joined Puesto in January 2025, has cooked in Michelin-starred kitchens including L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Las Vegas and Valle in Oceanside, led by James Beard nominee Roberto Alcocer. His spring creations spotlight…

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Saijo, a New Japanese Dining Experience, Opens in Culver City

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By Greer Wylder
March 30, 2025

From the team behind JINYA Ramen Bar and Robata, JINYA Holdings is introducing its latest concept — Saijo, a 24-seat counter-style restaurant specializing in hand rolls (temaki) and grilled skewers (kushiyaki) — opening April 2 in Culver City. Founder and CEO Tomo Takahashi was inspired by his time in Saijo City, Japan — home to a historic JINYA (a small castle) and Saijo High School, where he studied. The new concept brings together two signature elements of Japanese cuisine: freshly prepared temaki and flavorful kushiyaki.Saijo’s hand rolls feature high-quality sushi ingredients, while its kushiyaki menu highlights expertly grilled meats and seafood.…

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South County Outreach’s Empty Bowls Gala 2025: Setting the Table for Change

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By Greer Wylder
March 27, 2025

South County Outreach invites the community to the 2025 Empty Bowls Gala on Thursday, April 10, at 5 p.m. at its Irvine headquarters. This year’s theme, Setting the Table for Change, reflects the heart of SCO’s mission to end hunger and homelessness in Orange County.The annual event takes on new meaning this year as SCO opens its doors and welcomes guests in like family. Held onsite at South County Outreach, the immersive experience brings attendees face-to-face with the impact of food and housing insecurity—and the solutions that lead to lasting change.Guests will experience interactive exhibits and compelling storytelling that highlight…

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Live Music and Sunset Sips Midweek at A Crystal Cove

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By Greer Wylder
March 27, 2025

Exciting news from A Crystal Cove—live music is now on the lineup every Wednesday and Thursday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Ease into your evening with a handcrafted cocktail in hand, delicious bites on the table, and a rotating lineup of talented local musicians providing the soundtrack.Make it even better by arriving early for Sunset Sips Happy Hour.Happy Hour Highlights– Half off all wines by the glass– $4 off all spirits and specialty cocktails– Small plates that pair perfectly, including Whipped Feta, Spicy Yellowfin Tuna, Carpaccio, Charred Octopus, and the signature “A” BurgerSunset Sips Happy HourMonday–Thursday | 4:30–6 p.m.Friday |…

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