The Dose

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Pepper Lunch Expands to Irvine Spectrum with a Sizzling Grand Opening!

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By Greer Wylder
February 02, 2025

Orange County is about to welcome its second Pepper Lunch, the Japanese-born, fast-casual DIY teppan restaurant, opening at Irvine Spectrum Center on Friday, February 7. Known for its signature “sizzle-it-your-way” experience, the brand has expanded to over 530 locations in 17 countries since debuting 30 years ago. It's original OC location opened in 2018 at Diamond Jamboree in Irvine. At Pepper Lunch, guests take the lead in their dining experience, blending traditional Japanese flavors with a modern do-it-yourself teppan concept. The menu features bold, high-quality ingredients at an affordable price, with most dishes priced under $20.The restaurant’s offerings complement the diverse…

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Explore, Dine, and Relax: Catalina Island’s Winter Getaway Packages

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By Greer Wylder
January 30, 2025

Catalina Island has earned spots on countless “best of” lists, from charming small towns and romantic getaways to scenic ferry rides, passport-free trips, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences. Known for its Mediterranean charm, expansive outdoor activities, and island-made products, the island is a favorite destination for great dining, boutique hotels, and adventure seekers alike.Now through March 14, 2025, Catalina Express, in partnership with nearly 20 hotels—including Banning House Lodge in Two Harbors for the first time—is offering the popular "Best of Winter" ferry and hotel packages. Visitors can enjoy up to 50% off while experiencing cooler weather, fewer crowds, and…

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Celebrate Lunar New Year with Incredible Dining Experiences at South Coast Plaza

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By Greer Wylder
January 29, 2025

Ring in the Year of the Snake with symbolic dishes, festive cocktails, and exclusive dining experiences at South Coast Plaza’s renowned restaurants. From special prix fixe menus to creative collaborations and limited-time offerings, here’s where to celebrate:TERRACE BY MIX MIXChef Ross Pangilinan presents a three-course prix fixe menu with Asian fusion flavors, available through February 9 for $60 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity).First Course: Crab & Shrimp Toast with brioche, herbs, spicy aioli, sesame seeds, and Asian vinaigrette or Pork Belly Bao Buns with hoisin, Korean chili cucumber, and chives.Main Course: Chilean Seabass with soy ginger chicken broth,…

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Ospi Costa Mesa Brings Southern Italian Flavors to Orange County

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By Greer Wylder
January 27, 2025

Chef Jackson Kalb, known from Top Chef Season 19, has expanded his Memento Mori Hospitality group to Orange County with the opening of Ospi Costa Mesa at Paseo 17—a newly reimagined upscale center at East 17th Street and Westminster in Costa Mesa. Opened last month, this marks Memento Mori’s first Orange County location and the second Ospi outpost.Kalb’s culinary journey started at just 13 years old as an apprentice at Melisse (2 Michelin stars) in Santa Monica. Before earning a degree from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, he sharpened his skills at world-class restaurants, including Joël Robuchon (3 Michelin…

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Wild Strawberry Café Opens in Laguna Beach

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By Greer Wylder
January 23, 2025

For 14 years, Wild Strawberry Café has been a cherished European-style café in Newport Beach, with three locations in the Fashion Island area. Now, the family-owned business is growing as Milena, daughter of founders Natasha and Alex, opens a new location in Laguna Beach—taking over the former Koffee Klatch space.Milena is thrilled to expand the family brand, bringing her passion for community, freshness, and Wild Strawberry’s Healthy Eating, Healthy Living philosophy to Laguna Beach.Wild Strawberry Café is known for its organic coffee, fresh-baked goods, breakfast burritos, omelets, wraps, sandwiches, vibrant salads, and a commitment to using no seed oils. “Our…

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