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Calaca Mamas Cantina Celebrates Mexican Independence Day

By Greer Wylder

September 11, 2023

Anaheim's vibrant Day of the Dead-themed Mexican restaurant, Calaca Mamas Cantina, is gearing up to celebrate Mexican Independence Day on Saturday, September 16th, with a two-day festivity that kicks off on Friday, September 15th at 5 p.m. and continues through Saturday, September 16th. This family-owned establishment warmly invites guests to partake in the holiday festivities, featuring traditional music, delectable dishes, and an array of giveaways.Mexican Independence Day commemorates Mexico's proclamation of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1810. The celebrations traditionally commence on the evening of the 15th, paying homage to the courageous Catholic priest who rallied the people by…

The Winery Taste of Hawaii at MAUI STRONG Fundraiser

By Greer Wylder

September 11, 2023

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is hosting "MAUI STRONG," a fundraising event on Sunday, September 17, at its Newport Beach waterfront location. The event aims to support the Maui Strong Fund, organized by the Hawai’i Community Foundation. This fund is dedicated to providing relief through local aid groups responding to community needs.Guests can participate in two segments:"Maui Strong Tasting Event" from 2-5 p.m., priced at $150 per guest. This segment offers the chance to savor the flavors of Maui, including Hawaiian spirits like Koloa Rum, Pau Maui Vodka, and Meili Vodka, as well as beverages from Kona Brewing Company,…

OC Chefs Unite to Raise Funds for Maui Relief

By Greer Wylder

September 05, 2023

In response to the recent fires devastating Maui, a group of compassionate Orange County chefs are uniting for a charitable cause. They are hosting a benefit dinner, named Malama Lahaina, at Crema Café in Seal Beach on Wednesday, September 6, starting at 6:30 p.m. The term "Malama," derived from Hawaiian, signifies the act of caring for and safeguarding. The Malama Lahaina dinner will treat attendees to a gourmet experience featuring seven courses thoughtfully paired with five wines. Leading this culinary endeavor are prominent Orange County chefs and restaurateurs:Yvon Goetz — The Winery Restaurant & Wine BarDean Kim — OC Baking Co.Dee…

Gourmet Toast and Juice Bar, Toastique Coming to OC

By Greer Wylder

September 01, 2023

Toastique, the rustic culinary concept originating from Washington, D.C., renowned for its artisanal toast, freshly pressed juices, and smoothies, is opening its first California location on Balboa Island this upcoming fall season.Established in 2017, Toastique is known for using locally sourced, fresh ingredients, Toastique champions healthy living through an array of culinary offerings. Its gourmet toast selections include standouts like the timeless Avocado Smash (avocado complemented by watermelon radish, marinated tomatoes, chili oil, microgreens on multigrain toast) and the flavorful Smoked Salmon (smoked pastrami salmon, herbed cream cheese spread, arugula, cucumber, pickled onion, capers, toasty seasoning, microgreens, lemon twist on…

Gracias Madre Newport Beach Labor Day Weekend Festivities

By Greer Wylder

September 01, 2023

Gracias Madre Newport Beach is making Labor Day weekend festivities more memorable with extended brunch from Saturday to Monday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Take in the sophisticated, rustic ambience at the beautiful patio while enjoying dishes at table like the Ceviche de ‘Jaiba’ ($16.5) made with hearts of palm, aguachile, avocado mousse, cilantro, Aleppo pepper, lettuce cups and Jackfruit Carnitas tacos ($7.5) with guacamole, cilantro, onion, cabbage, habanero sauce, corn tortilla. For a complete and satisfying brunch, sip away with their signature cocktails including the ¡Vamos! ($18) which mixes elote mezcal, Mexican corn whisky, lemon, caramelized honey or the Paloma ($18),…