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

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

Zara Man Opens First U.S. Store at South Coast Plaza

Exciting news in men’s fashion. Zara Man has made its U.S. debut with the opening of its first men’s-only boutique at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. The sleek new space introduces Zara’s latest men’s collections through a design-forward concept that feels personal, modern, and effortless to shop.

The boutique features a refined interior with neutral tones, chrome, and reclaimed wood that create a warm and contemporary atmosphere. Shoppers can explore the exclusive Archive collection, the Origins line, and dedicated denim and tailoring sections, all designed to highlight Zara’s elevated approach to modern menswear.

The new store also makes shopping easier with self-service checkout and returns. Customers can scan, pay, and go, or complete returns quickly at automated stations.

Zara Man Costa Mesa blends sophistication and simplicity, offering tailored pieces, contemporary essentials, and versatile everyday looks. The opening marks the next step in the brand’s U.S. expansion, following new store launches in Brea, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

The existing Zara store at South Coast Plaza will now carry only women’s and children’s collections.

Zara Man South Coast Plaza
Level 2, Bloomingdale’s Wing