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Luciana’s Ristorante in Dana Point Wins 2025 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence

By Greer Wylder

June 27, 2025

Luciana’s Ristorante in Dana Point has once again earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for 2025, a prestigious honor recognizing the world’s top restaurants for wine.The award celebrates Luciana’s commitment to pairing its elevated Italian cuisine with an exceptional, 300-bottle wine list that spans over 10 countries. Curated to complement the menu’s Northern Italian flavors—with modern touches by Michelin-trained Executive Chef Luis Sandoval—the list includes selections from esteemed producers and regions rarely found in local shops or everyday settings.Presented annually by Wine Spectator, the Award of Excellence highlights restaurants with thoughtfully curated programs featuring at least 90 wines that align…

Celebrate the Fourth from Offshore 9’s Rooftop in Huntington Beach

By Greer Wylder

June 27, 2025

This Independence Day, watch the fireworks light up the coast from Orange County’s highest rooftop lounge. Offshore 9, perched atop The Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach, will host a one-of-a-kind Fourth of July celebration from 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday, July 4.Guests will enjoy sweeping ocean views, a live DJ, and front-row seats to the Huntington Beach fireworks show—all from a stylish rooftop setting. Admission starts at $59 per person and includes access to Offshore 9, a signature “Glow-in-the-Cloud” sparkler cocktail, and Seafood Chowder Tots. A special holiday menu featuring All-American classics will also be available for purchase.Groups…

Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks in Orange County

By Greer Wylder

June 25, 2025

The countdown is on for Orange County to celebrate the Fourth of July in unforgettable style. Whether you're looking for ocean views, a waterfront dinner, or a classic barbecue bash, I’ve rounded up some of the most festive and unique ways to enjoy Independence Day across the region.Balboa Bay Resort | All-American Shellabration at A+O Restaurant | BarThursday, July 4 | A+O Restaurant | Bar | 5 to 10 p.m.Enjoy front-row views of the fireworks show across the bay at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina while dining at Newport Beach’s only waterfront resort. Balboa Bay Resort’s All-American Shellabration at…

Where to Celebrate the Fourth of July in Orange County

By Greer Wylder

June 24, 2025

From poolside parties to fireworks views and premium meats for the grill, these festive picks offer something for everyone this Independence Day.The Fourth of July is almost here, and these standout celebrations and patriotic food finds are ready to spark joy this holiday weekend. From a lively “Grill & Chill” pool party at Hilton Irvine to front-row Disneyland fireworks at Calaca Mamas Cantina and the grand opening of The Butchery in Manhattan Beach, here are a few ways to eat, play, and celebrate—whether you’re staying local or heading to the coast.Celebrate Independence Day at Hilton Irvine with a Poolside “Grill…

New Chapter for Sushi Ii: Acclaimed Chefs Join MICHELIN-Recognized Kitchen

By Greer Wylder

June 23, 2025

Sushi Ii, the MICHELIN-recognized Japanese restaurant on Mariner’s Mile, continues its legacy as one of Southern California’s premier Japanese dining destinations with the addition of two accomplished chefs, Koji Takahashi and Norio Izawa.Both chefs bring decades of experience rooted in traditional Japanese technique and a shared commitment to the restaurant’s refined, thoughtful approach. Chef Takahashi, who has been with Sushi Ii since its inception, leads the restaurant’s kaiseki program. With nearly 40 years of experience, he blends time-honored methods with a modern sensibility, offering a multi-course experience that reflects what diners in Japan are enjoying today.Joining him is Chef Izawa,…