Culinary Dropout Opens in Old Towne Orange

Culinary Dropout, the modern eatery known for its scratch-made dishes, inventive cocktails, and relaxed, playful energy, just opened in Old Towne Orange. The new restaurant marks the concept’s 16th location nationwide and its second in California, following its Southern California debut in Del Mar earlier this year.

Created by Arizona-based Fox Restaurant Concepts and restaurateur Sam Fox, Culinary Dropout is built around a passion for classic comfort food and a focus on fresh ingredients made in-house daily.

Guests can expect signature dishes that showcase that philosophy, including:
• Soft Pretzels & Provolone Fondue – Warm, freshly baked pretzels served over an open flame with house-made provolone fondue.
• Banana Bread French Toast – Thick slices of banana bread toasted and topped with banana caramel sauce, butter-toasted almonds, and chantilly cream.
• 36-Hour Pork Ribs – Cured for 24 hours and slow-cooked for another 12 until tender, finished with jalapeño molasses BBQ sauce for a sweet, smoky finish.
• Meatloaf Sloppy Joe – A twist on the guest-favorite meatloaf, topped with fontina cheese, crispy onions, and pickles.
• Caramelized Banana Bar – A seasonal dessert with cornflake peanut butter crunch, caramelized bananas, praline mousse, and vanilla crema.

The beverage menu features a creative mix of handcrafted cocktails, curated wines, craft beers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Highlights include the Giddy Up Espresso Martini with vodka, espresso liqueur, and cinnamon-spiced cold brew, the Sweater Weather Sangria with spiced peaches and apple brandy, and the Elderflower & Grapefruit Mimosa for brunch. Non-alcoholic options include The Hass, made with avocado, coconut, lime, ginger, and naranja agria.

The new Orange location spans 7,700 square feet indoors with an additional 1,680-square-foot wraparound patio, offering 253 seats in total. Eclectic artwork pays tribute to California skateboarding legend Ellen O’Neal and features iconic Slim Aarons photography that captures the effortless style of the 1950s. The design reflects the brand’s spirit of individuality and creativity while honoring its Old Towne surroundings.

Reservations are available through OpenTable for lunch, happy hour, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Hours
• Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
• Friday: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
• Saturday: Brunch 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; Dinner 3–11 p.m.
• Sunday: Brunch 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; Dinner 3–10 p.m.
• Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m.

Location
191 N. Orange St., Orange, CA 92866
(714) 439-5566
www.culinarydropout.com

Super Irvine International Market Opens Oct. 31 in Irvine

A new chapter begins for a beloved Orange County institution. The much-anticipated Super Irvine International Market opens Friday, Oct. 31, introducing a luxury market hall experience that blends contemporary design with global culinary inspiration.

Located at Parkview Center, part of the Irvine Company Retail Properties portfolio, the reimagined Super Irvine transforms the traditional international market into a modern destination inspired by Europe’s food halls.

The new space was designed to be both elevated and inviting, encouraging shoppers to gather, dine, and explore flavors from around the world.

Beyond its striking design, Super Irvine offers an immersive culinary experience uniting Mediterranean, Asian, European, and Western influences. The upscale market features a full-service deli, butcher shop with halal and kosher options, a fresh juice and coffee bar, and aisles filled with international ingredients.

Two culinary highlights include Bella’s Bakery, known for its fresh-baked goods and event catering, and Irvine Café, a sit-down Mediterranean restaurant created by the second-generation owners.

Super Irvine’s deep commitment to quality and community continues with organic produce sourced from the family’s farm in Fallbrook, California, where herbs, eggs, and fruit are grown and harvested with care. UCI students will also receive a 10% discount, strengthening the market’s connection to the Irvine community.

The Super Irvine story began in 1983 when founder Ali Ariarad opened a small butcher shop in Orange. His dedication to high-quality products at fair prices laid the foundation for what the brand stands for today. In 1996, the family opened the first Super Irvine, followed by a Mission Viejo location in 2003—the city’s first Persian market.

Now, three years after closing its original Irvine store, the family proudly unveils a reimagined space led by Ali’s daughters, Mahta and Ana, who carry forward their father’s legacy of excellence and hospitality.

Super Irvine International Market will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Parkview Center, 5311 University Drive, Irvine.

Image Courtesy Eric Figge Photography

Two Evenings With John O’Hurley at The Lido

Exciting news in live entertainment! The Lido Theater in Newport Beach presents a special two-night engagement, November 7 and 8, with John O’Hurley, the acclaimed actor, author, and entertainer best known for his roles on Seinfeld and Dancing With the Stars.

His acclaimed show, A Man with Standards, is a witty and heartfelt tribute to The Great American Songbook, blending timeless music with captivating stories and reflections from his remarkable career.

Friday, November 7 | 7:30–9 p.m.
A Man with Standards
Enjoy an evening of laughter, nostalgia, and unforgettable melodies. Drinks and concessions will be available. VIP seating is offered in the first four center rows, with additional tiered floor and balcony options.

Saturday, November 8 | 7:30–9 p.m.
A Man with Standards + VIP After Party
See the show, then join John O’Hurley for an exclusive post-show cocktail and social hour at A Restaurant, just minutes from the theater. VIP guests will enjoy a meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with O’Hurley. Drinks and concessions will be available at the theater.

A portion of Saturday night’s ticket sales will benefit the Corona del Mar and Newport Harbor High School Foundations.

The Lido Theater
3459 Via Lido, Newport Beach, CA 92663
LidoTheater.com