Greer's OC

The District at Tustin Legacy is on a roll to bring an entire new and exciting retail experience when The Union Market Tustin, a 22,000-square-foot artisanal marketplace of independent gourmet food, fashion and lifestyle businesses opens in 2014, in the former Border’s Books & Music space. Union Market Tustin will bring a fresh, creative and local flair to The District Promenade featuring unique boutiques, specialty foods, wine bar and restaurant, and more, all under one roof. The entire vibe will look more like something you would find in New York or San Francisco, with a modern, industrial design and open-air feel.

Union Market Tustin is the brainchild of Andrea and Russell Young, who originated a similar project inspired by the famed Ferry Building in San Francisco, first with the OC Mart on 17th Street in Costa Mesa, and then blossomed into the partnership of The OC Mart Mix followed by the recently opened Market LV in Las Vegas.

Union Market Tustin will offer both independent retail and restaurant concepts with indoor and outdoor communal areas for gathering and events.

Spaces available for lease will range from 200 to 3,000 square feet to give independent businesses a launching pad and attract emerging artisans and brands. Confirmed leases include Aki-Home, Pinot's Palette, Happy Harbor Chinese Restaurant and Denim Lab slated to open this year or early 2014. Other leases will be announced as they are confirmed.

Union Market Tustin is expected to bring upwards of 20 new exciting merchants for visitors that will complement The District Promenade’s current offerings including AMC Tustin 14, RA Sushi, Auld Dubliner Irish Pub, Fashion Camp OC, Bowlmor Lanes, Vans, Tilly’s, DSW, Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Native Foods Café,

The District is also a popular host of a variety of celebrations and charitable events, many annual including Foodies & Fashionistas, Fash Bash, Leprechaun Leap, Top Chef Tour and Radio Disney.

For more information about Union Market Tustin emai hello@unionmarkettustin.com or visit unionmarkettustin.com

Beer vs. Wine at Splashes?

Beer vs. Wine, which one makes a better food pairing? You can decide for yourself on Friday at 6 p.m. at the 2nd annual Beer vs. Wine event at Splashes Restaurant in Laguna Beach where guests can enjoy ocean views while indulging in a 5-course meal prepared by Executive Chef David Fuñe.

Each course will be paired with a specially selected beer from Stone Brewing and wine from Constellation Wine Brands as they battle it out to see which drink is the better pairing - beer or wine?

The five-course dinner menu starts with salad soup, cold raviolis, scallops, duck inspired by Dr. Seuss, red chocolate pave, and beer and wine pairings with each course. The cost is $125 per person. For beer vs. wine reservations, call 949.376.2671.

There is also a Beer VS. Wine Stay Package that includes Beer vs. Wine dinner for two and one-night accommodations. Rates start at $675.

You can book a stay here or call 888.869.7569.

Surf and Sand Resort & Spa is at 1555 South Coast Highway in Laguna Beach.