Greer's OC | The latest in Orange County fashion, dining, and trends.

Sushi Oasis: Murasaki

By Greer Wylder

October 11, 2009

When it comes to pleasing a plethora of sushi cravings, Murasaki in Santa Ana pretty much has it covered: Traditional, non-fussy nigiri sushi and sashimi? Sushi cut rolls? Yes to both and better yet, the elegantly cooked fish dishes at the Japanese restaurant deserve praise, too. For more experienced sushi lovers, sit at the bar and order the omakase, or chef’s specials, which can start at a reasonable $35 per person. Or try the prix-fixe sushi set for $30, which comes with miso soup, salmon skin salad, miso cod, an 8-piece sushi selection and ice cream to finish. Other standouts…

Oui! Oui! C’est Si Bon

By Greer Wylder

October 05, 2009

Chances are you’ve already sampled the star of C’est Si Bon Bakery in Newport Beach: its crispy French baguettes can be found at many popular coastal OC restaurants. But if you haven’t, now’s as good a time as any. The bustling bakery has been doling out some of the best deli sandwiches and pastries, as many locals can attest. Grab a bagged lunch by ordering any one of their hefty sandwiches stuffed with a variety of quality cold cuts and cheeses like Havarti and even Brie. A tip: Arrive by 9 a.m. to grab freshly baked baguettes right outta the…

Cheesy Hour

By Greer Wylder

October 05, 2009

Cheese lovers, rejoice: Picnics Deli in Costa Mesa is offering a tasting of a selection of cheeses and assorted small plates for $15 on Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m. Past tastings have featured heirloom tomato gazpacho, meatballs and other tasty bites, including a glass of sparkling wine. The longtime gourmet foods shop has long been known for its array of posh deli fare and elegant catered goods, but it’s the cheese that shines here. Look for a carefully hand-selected variety of 40 to 50 cheeses, from Brillat-Savarin with raisin and Halloumi to new picks like Epoisses Berthaut and Gravenstein…

Get Your Vietnamese Fix

By Greer Wylder

September 26, 2009

In the mood for Vietnamese food but don’t want to make the trek to Little Saigon? Try Vietnam Pearl in Costa Mesa. For nearly a decade, Vietnam Pearl has been dishing out homestyle Vietnamese fare like comforting plates of rice and crispy chicken or charbroiled pork. Do try the bi cuon, or shredded pork spring rolls as well. The family-owned eatery recently underwent a facelift with new tables and brightly painted walls for a more updated look. Vietnam Pearl is located at 1215 Baker St., Suite B, Costa Mesa 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays 714.540.2212.

Burgers and Bacon

By Greer Wylder

September 26, 2009

Love bacon and love burgers? Then you might have heard about Slater’s 50/50 in Anaheim, where the signature burger patty is made up of 50 percent beef and 50 percent bacon - a glorious combination. As if that weren’t enough, there’s also 12 cheeses, 30 toppings and 20 sauces to festoon your burger with. Slater’s 50/50 is located at 6362 E Santa Ana Canyon Rd, Anaheim Hills Mon-Thu. 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. 714.685.1103. www.slaters5050.com