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A Big Year Ahead for Costa Mesa’s SoBECA District

By Greer Wylder

March 08, 2026

More than 20 new small businesses are set to join the LAB’s portfolio in 2026, marking the largest single year of openings in the history of Costa Mesa’s SoBECA District.The expansion will bring more than 20 new businesses across 50,000 square feet, making it the LAB’s biggest growth to date.Located just down Bristol Street from South Coast Plaza, the South on Bristol Entertainment, Culture and Arts District, known as SoBECA, is home to some of Costa Mesa’s most recognizable destinations, including The LAB Anti-Mall, The CAMP, CAMPOUT, The SOLO Building and PLANT. The new mix of retail, dining, wellness and…

Luke’s Lobster Brings the Heat With Chili Crisp Crab Melt

By Greer Wylder

March 08, 2026

Luke’s Lobster has a location on Balboa Island, making it an easy coastal stop for seafood lovers in Newport Beach. Founded in 2009 by third-generation lobsterman Luke Holden, the Maine based, family owned restaurant group has built a loyal following for its commitment to 100 percent traceable, sustainably sourced seafood. Luke’s Lobster has been a certified B Corp since 2018 and continues to lead with transparency from dock to plate.For a limited time, Luke’s is turning up the heat with a new Chili Crisp Crab Melt, created in collaboration with Fly By Jing. Chili crisp has become one of the…

Top of the V Unveils a Spanish-Inspired Steakhouse Experience

By Greer Wylder

March 08, 2026

Top of the V, the rooftop restaurant at The Viv Hotel, Anaheim, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, has debuted a refreshed identity as a Spanish-inspired steakhouse. The reimagined concept brings a new culinary direction to Anaheim’s highest rooftop dining destination, pairing premium steaks with Spanish coastal influences, tableside presentations and sweeping views of the resort corridor.Led by Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, the menu blends refined technique with approachable, shareable dishes. Guests can expect a modern take on the Spanish steakhouse, where premium cuts meet seafood-forward plates and seasonal ingredients. Highlights include picanha steak, a 21-day dry-aged ribeye, arroz negra paella with…

Beyond A Dream Gala Supports Breakthrough T1D Research in Orange County

By Greer Wylder

March 06, 2026

Breakthrough T1D Greater Orange County, formerly JDRF, will gather supporters on March 14 for the Beyond A Dream Gala to raise critical funds for research focused on curing, preventing and treating type 1 diabetes. Chaired by Nancy Mienik, Claire Squier and Mara Wilkie, the evening brings the community together for a night of entertainment and meaningful giving in support of the organization’s mission.The Norton family will be recognized as the Fund A Cure family, sharing the story of their daughter Ellie’s diagnosis and their ongoing commitment to advancing Breakthrough T1D’s work to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs for people living with type…

Orange County Restaurant Week Returns March 8–14

By Greer Wylder

March 05, 2026

If there is one week when life really does taste better, this is it.Orange County Restaurant Week returns Sunday, March 8 through Saturday, March 14, 2026, with restaurants across the county unveiling specially curated prix-fixe menus, inventive cocktails and limited-time dining experiences. As the event’s tagline promises, “Life is just better this week.”Now in its 17th year, Orange County Restaurant Week remains a highlight of the local food scene, giving diners a reason to try somewhere new, return to favorite spots and support Orange County’s vibrant restaurant community. This year’s lineup includes longtime participants as well as new additions that…