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

Gluten-free at Pelican Hill!

By Greer Wylder

September 23, 2011

Considering how it seems like food allergies are so prevalent, we’re always on the lookout for menus that cater to special diets. So we just found out that Chef Luca Cesarini at Andrea at Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Beach has introduced a new gluten-free menu. The dishes include pastas made from flour alternatives, such as corn, chick peas, rice, soy and flax-seed bases. The items available at lunch Wednesday through Sunday and at dinner daily. Gluten-free options include potato gnocchi, with butternut squash and wild mushrooms; rigatoni with roasted eggplant, tomato, basil and pine nuts; saffron spaghetti with seafood…

FLEMINGS MONTH OF DISCOVERY!

By Greer Wylder

September 19, 2011

Review by Sheryll Alexander There’s only two Fridays left for Fleming’s 100 “Opening Nights,” which is the unveiling of the award-winning list of 100 wines by the glass at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. On both Sep. 23 and Sep. 30, guests can sip 20 wines for just $25 in the sultry Fleming’s cellar and try some of Chef Chris Huttens’ killer new appetizers. We enjoyed last Friday’s “Opening Night” immensely. The lively wine cellar banter with eager Fleming’s servers and well-dressed guests was relaxing after a long week. However, the best part of the evening may have been…

Mozza in OC!

By Greer Wylder

September 15, 2011

Review by Sheryll Alexander The newly-opened Pizzeria Mozza in Newport Beach may be the brainchild of super star NYC chef and TV personality Mario Batali, but is it really as good as all that? Pretty much. Those strapped for cash, however, should be aware of hidden costs, small portions and high-priced wines. For those who don’t have to worry about price so much, Mozza is a delight for all the senses, especially if you love excellent wines, artisanal foods, wood-fired pizzas and the lively atmosphere of a modern Italian-style bistro. Parking at Mozza Located in the former Il Dolce space…

BEST ROASTED CRAB EVER AT ANQI!

By Greer Wylder

September 07, 2011

Review by Sheryll Alexander We were seriously wowed recently by a dinner of roasted Dungeness crabs prepared personally by Mama Helene An using her signature family recipe at the House of An’s South Coast Plaza location, AnQi Bistro. We had heard of Mama An’s garlic-and-pepper roasted crab, which is available at AnQi only on Tuesdays during dinner service. Why Tuesdays only? That’s the day when Master Chef and Matriarch “Mama An” travels from her home kitchens at Crustacean Beverly Hills with dozens of 2.5 lb. Pacific waters Dungeness crabs in the trunk. Once she arrives at Costa Mesa’s AnQi Bistro,…

WE LOVE STARFISH LAGUNA TAKE OUT!

By Greer Wylder

September 04, 2011

Review by Sheryll Alexander Now that summer is over and weekday evenings seem to be exhausting, Starfish Laguna brings fine Asian fusion cuisine to your car door. We recently tried this fabulous take-out service by renowned Laguna restaurateur Nancy Wilhelm, who also runs Laguna's award-winning Tabu Grill. Yes, our family thoroughly enjoyed a Starfish Laguna feast after a long, stressful day. Isn’t it amazing how some Thai-inspired food can perk up your spirits so? We started our palates dancing with light-as-air, yet savory “ma po” tofu lettuce wraps. The kids loved the hearty Kobe beef sliders. The highlight of the…