Greer's OC | The latest in Orange County fashion, dining, and trends.

Verde: A New Destination for California Cuisine and Crafted Libations

By Greer Wylder

October 30, 2024

Verde, a new restaurant concept from partners Koire Rogers and Anthony Laborin, will debut on Friday, November 15, 2024. Situated within The Ranch at Newport Bay in Eastside Costa Mesa, this innovative spot will offer a libation-focused dining experience, featuring a refined cocktail and wine program. Executive Chef Paula Balderrama will helm the kitchen, presenting a menu of seasonal, ingredient-driven California cuisine.“We’re thrilled to bring Verde to life and introduce a new kind of dining experience to Eastside Costa Mesa,” said Anthony Laborin. “With Chef Paula Balderrama’s talent and a focus on innovative cocktails and exceptional wines, Verde is all…

Week-long Día de los Muertos Specials at Calaca Mamas Cantina!

By Greer Wylder

October 28, 2024

Join the vibrant celebrations at Calaca Mamas Cantina, Anaheim’s premier Day of the Dead-inspired restaurant, with a week-long series of events and specials honoring Día de los Muertos.The festivities kick off with a Día de los Muertos-themed exhibition featuring local Anaheim artist McBiff. Throughout the week, guests can enjoy three limited-time cocktails crafted especially for Día de los Muertos: Marigold Sunrise (orange juice, grenadine, and blanco tequila), Haunted Paradise (grapefruit juice, lemon juice, honey water, Campari, and whiskey), and Dark Vader (Coke, grenadine, and whiskey). Each cocktail will be available for $16 through 11/1. The celebration wraps up with a live…

Buona Forchetta Opens Its Newest Location in Newport Beach

By Greer Wylder

October 25, 2024

Buona Forchetta has proudly opened its seventh location in Peninsula Village of Newport Beach, offering a delightful blend of authentic Italian cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. Renowned for its hand-crafted pizzas made in traditional wood-fired ovens and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, this new spot continues the Buona Forchetta tradition of genuine Italian dining. Guests can look forward to a great experience, with every dish made from traditional recipes, including house-made pasta and artisanal pizza that bring a taste of Italy.This location is situated in the waterfront plaza, in the same building as Shorebird Restaurant, and promises award-winning Neapolitan-style pizzas…

Global Gelato Brand Expands to Orange County

By Greer Wylder

October 24, 2024

Global gelato brand Gelatissimo is opening two new stores in Orange County as part of its U.S. expansion, adding to existing locations in Houston and Hawaii.Known for its artisanal flavors, wholesome ingredients, and made-fresh-in-store ethos, Gelatissimo operates more than 65 stores worldwide, generating millions in revenue. The company just opened a flagship store on Balboa Island, followed by a second location at Irvine’s University Center in November.CEO Braeden Lord sees Orange County as a key market in their global strategy. Local franchisees Rey and Sarah Maninang were drawn to the brand’s proven success and superior product. “We were blown away…

Weekend Brunch at Benny and Mary’s in Irvine: Elevated Classics and Bold Flavors

By Greer Wylder

October 23, 2024

Benny and Mary’s, located in Irvine, brings its bold style and incredible energy to Weekend Brunch, offering a menu of elevated classics with a unique twist on the familiar. Available every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the brunch menu complements their lunch and dinner options by showcasing the remarkable flavors of locally sourced ingredients and sustainable cooking practices that highlight their exceptional quality and freshness.The brunch menu features flavorful dishes like Avocado Towers Toast with sliced avocado, garden pickled radishes, grapefruit segments, radish sprouts, everything bagel seasoning, and eggs your way on country sourdough, and Huevos…