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

Chiang Rai Thai in Tustin Serves Up Michelin-Recognized Northern Thai Cuisine

By Greer Wylder

October 08, 2025

I’ve been on a mission to try more local restaurants that I haven’t experienced before, and Chiang Rai Thai in Tustin has been at the top of my list. It’s a buzz-worthy spot and for good reason. The restaurant has earned Michelin recognition three years in a row, in 2022, 2023 and 2024.This Tustin location opened earlier this year, while the original Chiang Rai Thai has been winning over diners in Long Beach for years. Word is definitely out, as the restaurant is almost always packed. Hot tip: join the waitlist on Yelp before you arrive. You’ll need to be…

Chili Chutney Brings Authentic Afghan Cuisine to Lake Forest

By Greer Wylder

October 08, 2025

Authentic Afghan cuisine isn’t easy to find in Orange County. Ever since I tried the incredible dishes at Kor Kitchen in San Luis Obispo, I’ve been on a mission to find Afghan food closer to home. Gratefully, I discovered Chili Chutney Afghan Restaurant in Lake Forest, new to me but serving loyal guests since 2009.This family-owned restaurant brings the comfort of home-cooked Afghan meals to Southern California, using recipes passed down through generations. Afghan cuisine reflects a rich blend of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences, known for its aromatic spices, long-simmered stews, and beautifully balanced flavors.At Chili Chutney, signature…

California Wine Festival Returns to Huntington Beach Oct. 17 - 18

By Greer Wylder

October 08, 2025

Sip, savor, and take in the ocean views as California Wine Festival comes to Huntington Beach on Friday, October 17, and Saturday, October 18, at Paséa Hotel & Spa. The two-day celebration blends exceptional wine, fresh coastal cuisine, and live music at one of Orange County’s most scenic destinations.Founded in 2004 in Santa Barbara, California Wine Festival has become one of the largest outdoor wine festivals in the state. The nationally recognized series highlights the wines, foods, and landscapes of California while giving back to local charities, including the Foodbank of Santa Barbara and Surfrider Foundation. In 2023, the event…

Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill Reopens Reimagined Anaheim Hills Flagship

By Greer Wylder

October 07, 2025

Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill, one of Southern California’s most beloved family-owned restaurants, has reopened its Anaheim Hills location after an extensive renovation. The flagship restaurant now showcases a completely reimagined look and design, setting the standard for Rodrigo’s nine other locations.Following months of renovation work through spring and summer, Rodrigo’s welcomes guests back to a refreshed atmosphere that celebrates its legacy as a local favorite since 1977.The redesigned Anaheim Hills restaurant features a modern, open layout with expanded windows, upgraded flooring, new booths, and carefully crafted design details. Rodrigo’s once again collaborated with local artist Ross Boss, who created several new…

Moonlit Magic to Shine at 2025 Wish Gala

By Greer Wylder

October 07, 2025

More than 250 guests will gather at Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach on Saturday, Oct. 18, for The Wish Gala, an annual benefit for Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire. Funds raised from this signature event will help grant life-changing wishes to children in the community facing critical illnesses.The black-tie gala, themed Moonlit Magic, begins at 5:30 p.m. and is $550 per person. Guests will enjoy dinner, a silent and live auction, entertainment, and dancing. Last year’s gala raised more than $700,000 and helped grant 273 wishes.This year’s event will also honor Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation for…