Greer's OC

Tempo Urban Kitchen is a new chef-driven restaurant that just opened in Brea, bringing a menu of fresh, sustainable ingredients presented in one-of-a-kind dishes.

It's the brainchild and passion project of restaurant veteran Jorge Cueva, who has opened many concepts across the country. Currently he’s President of the Lascari’s Restaurant Group and Cibo Fresh Catering where's he's focused on Tempo Urban Kitchen, which combines his love for hospitality with an enticing menu that is meant to attract diners from around the world.

He has sought out fresh, hot talent of the culinary world to bring his dream to life. His vision was completed when he met Tempo’s now Executive Chef, Derrick Foster, who is thrilled to oversee an innovative American kitchen in Orange County.

Chef Foster gained his formal training from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, and prior to opening Tempo Urban Kitchen, he spent time in the kitchens of The Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Colorado and The Musket Room in New York City.  

His use of innovative cooking methods and exotic ingredients bring an unparalleled uniqueness to Tempo’s menu. Guests will be hard-pressed to find comparable dishes anywhere in the county. Choose from dishes like 48-hour braised Short Rib Tacos with Guinness mole, dried chili crème fraiche, abuelita chocolate tortillas, and crispy cauliflower; and Fish & Chips with moist, yet crispy battered fish, house-made chips, signature tartar, and hot sauce gelee.

He also utilizes molecular gastronomy techniques while creating a stunning watermelon sashimi, to Tempo’s most talked about item, its creamy ice cream, made table side with liquid nitrogen.

In addition to its eclectic menu of global cuisine, Tempo offers handcrafted drinks from its craft cocktail bar. The beverage program focuses on scratch cocktails created with house-made bitters, syrups, and infusions, as well as craft beer and wine from around the world.

Tempo Urban Kitchen features Chef’s Table, communal table, and an outdoor patio. Guests can look forward to special events, Chef’s Tasting Menus and wine dinners throughout the year at Tempo Urban Kitchen.

Open noon to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; and noon to midnight Friday and Saturday.

Tempo Urban Kitchen is at 1060 Imperial Highway; across from the Brea Mall) in Brea. 714.529.2900.

Jazz and Juice!

The Young Singers of Orange County are presenting a Jazz & Juice wine Tasting, Food and Live Jazz benefit on Sunday, January 4 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Newport Beach Civic Center.

The event will feature the music of Bart Broadnax, Dannie Hofmann, Lex Leigh, Anthony Riedelsheimer, Sam Avalon and Tina Wilson.  Funds raised will go towards the YSOC and UNICEF Imagine Initiative.

Tickets cost $35 online and $40 at the door.

Newport Beach Civic Center is at 100 Civic Center Drive in Newport Beach.