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

Award-Winning Chef Ralph Estrada Joins IL Girasole in Costa Mesa

By Greer Wylder

August 17, 2025

Award-winning Chef Ralph Estrada has joined Orange County’s destination for modern Italian cuisine, IL Girasole, bringing more than 20 years of culinary experience and a decade of leadership to the restaurant. Chef Estrada has partnered with restaurateur Antonio Bevacqua to help shape one of Orange County’s defining modern Italian kitchens.IL Girasole, located within SOCO & The OC Mix in Costa Mesa, is known for its disciplined execution, deep understanding of global flavors, and commitment to sustainability. Chef Estrada’s approach blends technical mastery with a genuine respect for ingredients and people. His background includes key roles at acclaimed restaurants such as Knife…

Stone Groove Stillhouse Brings World’s First Audio Distillery to Anaheim

By Greer Wylder

August 16, 2025

Stone Groove Stillhouse, known as the world’s first and only audio stillhouse, has officially opened at the historic MAKE Building in Anaheim.The innovative concept fuses music and spirits through a patent-pending Musically Mastered™ process, which uses sonic energy from different music genres to influence how spirits interact with wood, ultimately shaping their flavor.From Jazz Fusion American Single Malt to Classic Rock Rye Whiskey, each spirit reflects its musical roots.“Stone Groove showcases our passion for music, spirits, cocktails, and food in a first-of-its-kind distillery pub and restaurant,” said Jeff Duggan, who co-owns Stone Groove with his wife, Christa.The name is a…

Harvest Restaurant Showcases Seasonal California Cuisine

By Greer Wylder

August 14, 2025

Harvest Restaurant at The Ranch at Laguna Beach blends rustic charm with refined dining, offering a true taste of coastal California. Located in a rugged, picturesque canyon, the restaurant’s farm-to-fork approach keeps it closely connected to the land.The restaurant, bar and private dining room honor California’s history of organic farming, brewing and winemaking. Outdoor patio seating showcases sweeping views of Aliso Canyon and the golf course. Fresh-made food and drink are at the heart of the experience, with many ingredients grown on the property and others sourced from trusted local purveyors.The menu shifts with the seasons, incorporating fresh herbs, fruits…

Puesto Unveils Flavor-Packed Summer Menu Across SoCal Locations

By Greer Wylder

August 05, 2025

Puesto Mexican Artisan Kitchen & Bar, a Southern California favorite with deep Mexico City roots, is turning up the heat this summer with an all-new seasonal menu. Executive Chef Raul Casillas introduces bold new bowls, tacos, and desserts that celebrate the vibrant flavors and complexity of Mexican cuisine.The highlight of the summer menu is a lineup of hearty, protein-forward Bowls served with black beans, herb lime rice, and sweet corn. Guests can choose from standout options including the Short Rib Birria Bowl with guacamole and Jalisco salsa; a Filet Mignon Cali Bowl with Morita salsa and jalapeño pico; Chicken Al…

A Taste of Japan in Irvine: Izakaya Osen

By Greer Wylder

August 05, 2025

Since opening in Irvine in 2022, Izakaya Osen has brought the energy, artistry, and soul of a traditional Japanese izakaya to Orange County—while elevating the experience with pristine ingredients, refined technique, and warm hospitality.At the helm is Chef Damon Cho, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef whose background includes time at Nobu, Tao, and Four Seasons Hotel. After launching his first restaurant in San Francisco in 2008, Chef Cho opened the original Izakaya Osen in Silver Lake in 2017. The Osen Group now includes locations in Silver Lake, Irvine, and the omakase-focused Omakase by Osen—also in Silver Lake—with future expansions planned for San…