Luke’s Lobster Brings the Heat With Chili Crisp Crab Melt

Luke’s Lobster has a location on Balboa Island, making it an easy coastal stop for seafood lovers in Newport Beach. Founded in 2009 by third-generation lobsterman Luke Holden, the Maine based, family owned restaurant group has built a loyal following for its commitment to 100 percent traceable, sustainably sourced seafood. Luke’s Lobster has been a certified B Corp since 2018 and continues to lead with transparency from dock to plate.

For a limited time, Luke’s is turning up the heat with a new Chili Crisp Crab Melt, created in collaboration with Fly By Jing. Chili crisp has become one of the most influential condiment trends in recent years, and this seasonal special brings that bold, savory heat to the seafood counter.

The Chili Crisp Crab Melt features 2 ounces of Jonah crab, cheddar cheese, crunchy cabbage and a chili crisp mayo made with Fly By Jing’s Xtra Spicy Sichuan Chili Crisp, pressed on classic white bread and served with chips for $18. It is Luke’s Lobster’s first limited time offering of 2026 and is available at participating shacks, including the Newport Beach location on Balboa Island.

To round out the experience, Luke’s Lobster is offering a few easy pairings with the Chili Crisp Crab Melt. Seasonal tomato bisque with oyster crackers is available in two sizes, 8 ounces for $8 and 12 ounces for $10. Soup and sandwich combos include a half Chili Crisp Crab Melt with 1 ounce of Jonah crab and 8 ounces of tomato bisque for $16, and a full Chili Crisp Crab Melt with 2 ounces of Jonah crab and 8 ounces of tomato bisque for $20.

Luke’s Lobster is located on Balboa Island at 329 Marine Ave., Newport Beach.

California Cool Art Auction Returns to Laguna Art Museum

Laguna Art Museum will welcome back its signature California Cool Art Auction this spring, marking the event’s 44th year of celebrating California artists while supporting the museum’s exhibitions, education programs and community initiatives.

The auction takes place March 7, 2026, with both online and in-person opportunities for collectors and art lovers to take part. Online bidding is open through Bidsquare and features a curated selection of works by leading and emerging California artists. All artworks will also be available for in-person viewing at Laguna Art Museum with paid admission.

The evening culminates with the in-person auction and fundraiser on March 7 at 6 p.m. at Laguna Art Museum. Guests can expect a live auction, paddle raise, specialty cocktails, elevated light bites, live music and opportunities to meet participating artists.

Tickets for the 44th Annual California Cool Art Auction are available at lagunaartmuseum.org/art-auction. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and include benefits such as early art previews, VIP event access and invitations to private gatherings, while supporting the museum’s ongoing mission.

Laguna Art Museum is located at 307 Cliff Drive in Laguna Beach, at the corner of Coast Highway and Cliff Drive.

Tickets for the 44th Annual California Cool Art Auction are available at lagunaartmuseum.org/art-auction. 

For more information about the 44th Annual California Cool Art Auction and Laguna Art Museum, visit lagunaartmuseum.org. 

A Coastal Stop for Artful Finds at Crystal Cove

Set along the beach in Crystal Cove State Park’s Historic District, The Park Store is a charming spot to shop for thoughtful gifts and one of a kind coastal finds. The shop, along with The Gallery at Cottage 46, highlights artistic textiles and heirloom style decorative pieces that celebrate traditional crafts such as weaving, embroidery and block printing. 

The collection brings a colorful, cottage inspired touch to the home. Shoppers will find a well curated mix of local art, ocean inspired jewelry, coastal apparel, beach toys, gear and meaningful souvenirs, all inspired by the spirit and natural beauty of Crystal Cove.

Every purchase supports the Crystal Cove Conservancy, with proceeds reinvested into park preservation and the Conservancy’s education and conservation programs, making it easy to shop with purpose while taking home a small piece of the coast.

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours may vary based on conditions. Call ahead to confirm. 949.715.0931

The Park Store is at Crystal Cove Conservancy, Cottage No. 5 and Cottage 46, Crystal Cove, Newport Coast.