Greer's OC

In homage to speakeasies, comes The Blind Pig, a new craft cocktail and swine inspired restaurant that just opened in Rancho Santa Margarita. During prohibition, speakeasies were often referred to as ‘Blind Pigs’ and that name clicked for co-owners Tony Monaco and Jarryd Graaff. They wanted to reflect on the “good ole’ days” of that era and focus on having a great experience while dining and enjoying cocktails.

At the large community table, a lakeside patio, or individual tables inside guests can choose from a farm-to-table inspired menu with adventurous shareable plates with ingredients ranging from smoked chicken liver mousse and pork belly to ahi tuna and lamb, all with a little twist from Executive Chef Josh Han, like chorizo raviolis and celery mac and cheese.

We highly recommend the mushroom "ceviche," with charred scallion, sour grapes, tomato, chile guero, taro chip ($9); and the bone marrow (pictured above) with smoke shallot marmalade, pickled figs, maytag bleu cheese, toast ($15); or the  gold beets, cumin-guava vinaigrette, pistachio granola, sharp cheddar, hibiscus compressed maui onion, watercress ($9).

To compliment the menu,  as well as the hand-selected wines and craft beers, award-winning craft cocktail specialist Gabrielle Dion mixes up house-crafted beverages with fresh, local ingredients. Choose from the Mexican Firing Squad with El Jimador Tequila, house-made grenadine, lime, soda, bitters; and the 50 Shades of Orange with Ford’s Gin, Aperol, Breckenridge bitters, honey, and lemon oils; or a RSM Sour with Fighting Cock Bourbon, lemon, Cocchi Vermouth de Tornino, and meringue.

Open from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday; and 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday.

31431 Santa Margarita Parkway in Rancho Santa Margarita. 949.888.0072.