This week in Orange County, dive into a culinary adventure where every venue offers more than just a meal—they provide experiences that stitch together the social fabric of our community. From the anticipated comfort food haven of Nick’s in Newport Beach to the innovative breakfast delights of EggBred in Garden Grove, and the interactive, conveyor belt hotpot experience at Chubby Cattle in Irvine, each spot is buzzing with the promise of new flavors and memorable moments. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visiting gourmand, these must-visit culinary hotspots offer a taste of local culture and an invitation to create lasting memories.

he relentless LA wildfires have brought the city’s vibrant restaurant industry to its knees, leaving thousands of food and beverage workers displaced and without income. In response, the California Restaurant Foundation’s Restaurants Care program is launching a $100,000 relief fund to provide critical support. But the need far exceeds this initial effort. Now more than ever, Los Angeles must come together to safeguard the backbone of its culinary community—because every effort counts.

Discover the ultimate Orange County weekend guide for January 11-12, 2025! Explore the best brunch spots, top events, and hidden gems across OC. From trendy restaurants and cozy coffee shops to can't-miss local festivals and art shows, this curated guide will help you make the most of your weekend in Orange County. Perfect for locals and visitors looking for exciting things to do, places to eat, and unique experiences in Southern California.

Once upon a time, malls were just places to buy things. Now? They’re curated symphonies of distraction. Take South Coast Plaza, a shrine to both high-end indulgence and holiday whimsy. There’s Santa, of course (he’s gone digital, by the way—online reservations only, because even Santa doesn’t do drop-ins anymore). But there’s also an elaborate winter village and a gingerbread house so majestic it makes your homemade version look like a failed pottery class.

Friday nights in Huntington Beach are more than just an evening out—they’re a story waiting to unfold. Start with sunset aperitifs at Pacific Hideaway, where tiki-inspired cocktails meet ocean breezes. Move on to an elegant dinner at Watertable, indulging in bold flavors and unmatched sophistication. Turn up the energy at Biergarten, swaying to live music and savoring German brews, before losing yourself in the hypnotic beats at The Circle OC. Huntington Beach isn’t just your backdrop tonight—it’s your main character. Cheers to unforgettable vibes and impeccable memories.

Orange County’s hospitality scene is where laid-back coastal charm meets culinary adventure. From the speakeasy vibes of The Blind Rabbit to the oceanfront elegance of The Rooftop Lounge, this guide uncovers the best of OC. Discover iconic dishes like Pho 79’s award-winning oxtail pho, hidden gems like Folks Pizzeria’s honey-drizzled Margherita, and avoid tourist traps that trade quality for convenience. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, community-driven experiences, or global flavors, OC’s dynamic bars and eateries offer something unforgettable for every palate.

What ties these culinary titans together isn’t just their Greystone education—it’s their ability to see food as more than sustenance. They’ve shown us that food is culture, connection, and creativity. For students walking those same halls today, these legends aren’t just names on a roster; they are proof that with vision and passion, the kitchen can be a stage, the street a classroom, and a meal a revolution.

Orange County is a haven for food lovers, offering a vibrant mix of culinary experiences that capture the region's diversity and creativity. From Michelin-starred fine dining to the authentic flavors of Little Saigon, the OC food scene is a treasure trove of delights waiting to be explored. Whether you're savoring pho at a James Beard award-winning spot or indulging in bold, modern takes on French cuisine, every meal tells a story. Discover the tastes, textures, and traditions that make Orange County a gastronomic paradise.

Orange County is more than palm trees and sun-drenched shores; it’s a living mosaic of stories told through plates and palates. From the vibrant pho houses of Little Saigon to the innovative fusion creations in Costa Mesa, OC’s culinary scene offers a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. Yet, this abundance is contrasted by a sobering reality—a hunger crisis affecting thousands of residents. Dive into this paradox of flavors and stories to uncover the chefs, organizations, and communities shaping OC’s food culture today.

Chinese cuisine is more than just food—it’s an art form, a story, a bridge between ancient traditions and the dynamic energy of today’s dining scene. In every steaming bowl of noodles and every perfectly pleated dumpling lies a tale of innovation and resilience. The best Chinese restaurants don’t just serve meals; they offer portals into a culinary world that spans vast regions, each with its own distinct flavors, techniques, and philosophies.

Italy is more than a destination; it’s a mood, a melody, a memory carried in every forkful of perfectly al dente pasta. These top Italian restaurants are not just about food—they are gateways to culture, moments of indulgence, and culinary artistry that tell stories of tradition, passion, and reinvention. From a lasagna layered with love to a saffron-kissed risotto that whispers of Milanese charm, each bite promises a journey far beyond the plate.

The city at night hums a different tune. When the day finally exhales, and the lights dim, an invitation quietly extends itself—to those willing to wander, taste, and bask in the embrace of the after-hours. This isn’t about convenience; it’s about savoring moments in the spaces between yesterday and tomorrow. Late-night dining isn’t just food—it’s storytelling. It’s poetry written in dishes, laughter exchanged over candles, and memories crafted when the clock loses its grip.

There’s something about the first breath of December air—a gentle coolness that whispers of new beginnings, of shimmering lights and bustling warmth. It’s the time of year when Orange County’s hospitality scene transforms into something extraordinary. The cafes and dining rooms feel cozier, the smiles a little brighter, and the spaces between moments seem to stretch, asking you to linger, to savor.

The first week of December is a stage where traditions and innovations dance together, inviting you to step into the stories woven by those who create, serve, and welcome. It’s not just about what’s new—it’s about what’s enduring, and what’s worth celebrating.

Orange County isn’t just following culinary trends—it’s creating them. From fusion dishes that blend birria with sushi burritos to AI-powered dining experiences that predict your ideal meal, the OC food scene is redefining the future of dining. As 2024 unfolds, expect hyper-regional cuisines, zero-waste cocktails, and interactive dining experiences that go beyond the plate, turning every meal into an unforgettable adventure.

Orange County—land of sunshine, surfboards, and, of course, tacos. But this isn’t just your typical taco Tuesday; this is a battleground where tortillas are the weapons, and the stakes are nothing short of flavor supremacy. From family-run taquerias to cutting-edge fusion trucks, OC’s taco scene is as diverse as its residents.