Greer's OC

One of our favorite local chefs, Craig Connole at K’ya Bistro at the historic La Casa del Camino Hotel in Laguna Beach offers a tapas-style dinner menu with more than 40 delicious small plates to choose from. His seasonally inspired dishes range in price from $5 to $16—making it one of the best values in OC.

The ever-evolving menu—ideal for cool winter weather—is always eclectic and delicious.

Some favorites on the menu include lobster meatballs with truffle and bacon mashed potatoes; bacon wrapped dates; flash fried calamari with thai glaze, peanuts, carrot, bean sprouts, cilantro and green onion; Buttermilk Fried Quail with jalapeño cornbread waffle, honey Sriracha syrup; grilled lamb chops: apple braised butternut squash, black barley, roasted garlic demi-glace; Carolina-style ribs, boneless pork, creamed corn and mashed potatoes; and lamb bolognese: gnocchi, vegetable ragout, feta cheese.

You need to save room for their brownie ice cream bars, with a side of salted caramel sauce. It’s to die for. 

K’ya also offers an array of beers, hand crafted cocktails and wines available in three, six and nine ounce pours.  

The bistro’s dining room is charming, with dark wood, flickering candles and arched details; the lobby lounge boasts a roaring fireplace, elegant chandelier and piano.

Open daily from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and happy hour daily from 4:30 p.m.- 5:30 p.m.  And, stop in Sundays for ½ off all bottles of wine.

K'ya Bistro is at 1289 S. Coast Highway in Laguna Beach. 855.990.0281.