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

Hot Pot Wonders

By Greer Wylder

October 19, 2009

Now that the weather’s finally getting cooler, nothing’s more comforting than a hot pot of meat and noodles, and a fun, do-it-yourself-meal at that. California Shabu-Shabu was the first Japanese hot-pot style restaurant to open in Orange County in Fountain Valley in 1997. Since then, similar shabu-shabu houses have popped up all over Southern California. Now, there’s a second California Shabu-Shabu location in Costa Mesa. The idea is simple: Sit at a slick U-shaped bar. A pot of water is brought out to you at your tabletop burner, along with plates of thinly sliced meat, seafood or tofu, noodles, vegetables…

Italian hot: Cucina Alessa

By Greer Wylder

October 11, 2009

Since it opened along PCH in Newport last year, the wait at Cucina Alessa has been known to reach past an hour at the popular Italian eatery. Thankfully, the owners decided to open a second outpost in Huntington Beach on Main Street (where the old Shorehouse Cafe used to be). Expect the same homemade pastas, reasonable prices and big helpings. Chef-owner Allessandro even takes the time to greet each table. The calamari here is perfectly crisp and light with a zesty arrabbiata sauce, while many have raved about the squash ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce. The pizza here…

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…