The Dose

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Newport Beach Film Festival Announces 2025 Honors

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By Greer Wylder
October 08, 2025

The Newport Beach Film Festival will host its 2025 Festival Honors on Sunday, Oct. 19, at Balboa Bay Resort in partnership with Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch.This year’s honorees include Diane Lane (“Anniversary”), Mark Hamill (“Life of Chuck”), and Academy Award winner Brendan Fraser (“Rental Family”), who will each receive the Icon Award. Kerry Condon (“F1” and “Train Dreams”) and Jenny Slate (“Dying for Sex”) will receive the Artist of Distinction Award. Tessa Thompson (“Hedda”) will be honored with the Outstanding Achievement in Acting Award. Noah Schnapp (“Stranger Things”) will receive the Spotlight Award. Francine Maisler (“Sinners” and “Springsteen: Deliver…

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Chiang Rai Thai in Tustin Serves Up Michelin-Recognized Northern Thai Cuisine

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By Greer Wylder
October 08, 2025

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…

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Chili Chutney Brings Authentic Afghan Cuisine to Lake Forest

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By Greer Wylder
October 08, 2025

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.This family-owned restaurant brings the comfort of home-cooked Afghan meals to Southern California, using recipes passed down through generations. Afghan cuisine reflects a rich blend of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences, known for its aromatic spices, long-simmered stews, and beautifully balanced flavors.At Chili Chutney, signature…

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Santa Maria Novella Brings Centuries of Craft to South Coast Plaza

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By Greer Wylder
October 08, 2025

South Coast Plaza is now home to a celebrated Italian brand, Santa Maria Novella, one of the world’s oldest pharmacies established in Florence, Italy in 1221 by Dominican monks. Known for its historic perfumes, skincare products, and herbal remedies that have been sought out for generations. When you shop at Santa Maria Novella, you can find enchanting scents and gift items that any recipient is sure to treasure. Must have essentials include Acqua Della Regina – Eau de Cologne that’s renowned for being Santa Maria Novella’s oldest fragrance. Born of love, it was created in 1533 as a royal wedding gift…

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California Wine Festival Returns to Huntington Beach Oct. 17 - 18

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By Greer Wylder
October 08, 2025

Sip, savor, and take in the ocean views as California Wine Festival comes to Huntington Beach on Friday, October 17, and Saturday, October 18, at Paséa Hotel & Spa. The two-day celebration blends exceptional wine, fresh coastal cuisine, and live music at one of Orange County’s most scenic destinations.Founded in 2004 in Santa Barbara, California Wine Festival has become one of the largest outdoor wine festivals in the state. The nationally recognized series highlights the wines, foods, and landscapes of California while giving back to local charities, including the Foodbank of Santa Barbara and Surfrider Foundation. In 2023, the event…

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