The Dose

chiangrai

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

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By Greer Wylder
October 16, 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 16, 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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Tales of Wonder and Imagination: Alexander Shelley Leads Pacific Symphony in ‘Scheherazade’

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By Greer Wylder
October 15, 2025

Music has the power to transport listeners to another world, and that is exactly the vision Alexander Shelley brings to his first concerts as artistic and music director designate of Pacific Symphony. Taking place October 16–19 at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, the program celebrates evocative storytelling and orchestral mastery from both classic and contemporary composers.The centerpiece of the evening is Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade,” a dazzling musical tapestry inspired by the tales of “One Thousand and One Nights.” The piece showcases individual musicians throughout, from the opening notes evoking the sea to the vivid sounds of an Arabian marketplace.…

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

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By Greer Wylder
October 14, 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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Santa Maria Novella Brings Centuries of Craft to South Coast Plaza

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By Greer Wylder
October 13, 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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