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www.lagunajournal.com
Restaurant News
RESTAURANT DIRECTORY
Restaurant Dining Reviews
with Glori Fickling
A Splendiferous Treat from San Diego
94th
Aero Squadron’s Phenomenal “Filling Station”

Harking back to yesteryear,
this vintage San Diego restaurant is virtually hidden from sight, a charming
French farmhouse auspiciously fronting the sprawling Montgomery Field Airport,
replete, inside and out, with fascinating WWI airplane artifacts . .Renowned for
“the most sensational Sunday Champagne Brunch” within miles, here is an
astounding buffet bountifully arranged with so sensational an assortment of
comestibles I immediately exclaimed, “Wow, all this and Cappuccino, too?” upon
spotting the extraordinary java machine arranged with every traditional
embellishment.

Heaps of crablegs, and
mussels are at the ready. Omelettes and pastas are prepared as you wish. Au
jus for prime rib dished up in separate cups to additionally season potatoes &
vegetables, The assortment of luscious layer cakes and pies are among succulent
desserts which include scrumptious crème brule and fresh blueberry crepes
suzette enhanced with heaps of whipped crèam. Under astute direction of g.m.
Mark Essley, we further savored ever flowing stems of sparkling chilled bubbly
as dispensed by our gracious server, Janina. Tab for all this bounty, $24.95,
less $5 if you arrive prior to 10 a.m. Whether you opt to dine alfreco under
sun protective umbrellas, or stroll the area post dining, the sprawling grounds
showcasing airplane memorabilia of a bygone era, make this winner a huge family
favorite,
08885 Balboa Ave. San Diego, CA
858 560-6771
www.94thaerosquadron.signonsandiego.com```
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Tiki Taco
Tuesday Among Royal Hawaiian Attractions

Chalk up a
double whammy for energetic g.m. Coleen Oyler who has set an
energetic new pace to Laguna’s famed Royal Hawaiian since taking
the reigns a few months ago. Following the introduction of
Cordon Bleu trained chef James Harris, fresh from his role as
sous chef at French 75, she recently launched Tiki TacoTuesdays
to the tune of a festive luau production. The mood was festive
as guests arrayed in complimentary light-flickering leis
sparkled as they danced to the Justin Radowsky Duo and sipped
frosty umbrella topped lapu lapu & mai tai cocktails.
chef James Harris on the rt.
But it was the gigantic
overstuffed $2 tacos, one reflection of the appealingly fresh new tastes Harris‘
has introduced here. that is certain to make Tuesdays a steady stop for more
than devotees of this iconic establishment. Crisp tortillas were generously
piled over the top with flavorful heaps of pork or fish, embellished with
shredded lettuce, onions, tomatoes. Garnishes of sour cream and salsa were at
the ready for adding to taste. Especially noteworthy is the top award earned by
Harris for his delectable ahi poke entered for the I Love Poke Festival earlier
this year. The succulent appetizer was sampled by lovely Coleen who presented
the treat atop ceramic spoons to the delight of attendees at the Laguna Beach
Art Walk last May. I totally concur this to be the most enticing ahi poke I
personally have enjoyed at any restaurant to date.
Largely recognized for its
family friendly value since debuted by the Cabang clan, circa1947, the Royal
Hawaiian menu continues their established 3-course dinners, soup and salad
prefacing main courses s, all of which are now tantalizingly updated via\chef
Harria’ inimitable culinary expertise. Similarly, the menu is affordably priced
most in a $15 .to $20 range for such as the renowned succulent bbq ribs, crunchy
tempura fried shrimp & huli huli ½ roast chicken entrees, going to $30 for a 12
oz. rib eye steak.. Beyond Tiki Taco Tuesdays, Coleen is pleased to offer Kama
Lama Mondays when industry people receive a generous 25% discount on food as
well as \happy hour specials 4 to 7 weekdays
331 No. Coast Hwy. 949 494-8001
royalhawaiianlaguna.net`
French 75 Welcomes Pascal Olhats’ Savoir Faire

The acquisition of
illustrious executive chef Pascal Olhats as consulting chef for French 75
several months ago, has elevated the chic restaurant to an enticing new level.
Utilizing the concept that a superlative dining experience may not necessarily
be expensive, he has augmented the standard menu with an extraordinary category
featuring 2 and 3-course prix fixe epicurean dinners at a mere $32 and $37, each
to please the most fastidious gourmand. Beyond these are nine entrees from the
grill from $22 to $30 with choice of field greens or potatoes plus four
delectable sauce embellishments.
Most recently this
innovative recipient of ten prestigious Zagat awards launched the first in a
series of planned Night Life events where we recalled our first meeting in 1988
at Tradition by Pascal, the flagship among his half dozen award-winning dining
establishments. The president of French Chefs Association, Pascal had earlier
demonstrated his considerable culinary expertise with an impressive demo under
the front Garden Tent as enthusiastic guests sipped Townley wines courtesy of
Shane Townly who was showcasing paintings from his Laguna Beach and San Clemente
galleries while musicians entertained outside.
Diners enjoying 5:30 and
7:30 p.m. seatings indulged in a 3-course repast realizing wondrously that a
mere $40 had purchased this memorable experience. Selections from a luscious
quartet of starters ranged from cognac sautéed wild mushrooms atop puff pastry
to a tempting mound of balsamic infused heirloom beet salad nestled with herbed
goat cheese and garlic roasted almonds. Among such seafood and poultry entrees
as coq au vin and wild salmon scaloppini, I happily shared Bouillabaisse in a
spicy saffron bouillon of mussels, scallops, snapper and seabass, then tender
slabs of roast duck breast anointed with foie gras cognac jus atop delicate
potato slices and petals of brussel sprouts.
Super surprise arrived as
the delectable yin and yang of desserts. delicate berry adorned vanilla bean
crème brulee for a satiating light finale; devastatingly warm chocolate souffle
sumptuously dripping with fudge-topped vanilla gelato for a heartier complement.
Looking forward,
trendy\wine and cheese tastings are projected under the Garden Tent. So, do
stand by, or call ahead, for these and Pascal’s next Night Life celebration at
this captivating dining destination.
French 75. 949 494-8444
1464 So. Coast Hwy. Laguna Beach
www,french75.net
with Glori Fickling
Laguna's Las Brisas Reaches
Beyond Captivating Ambiance

December 27, 1979 heralded the momentous launching of beautiful Las
Brisas at Laguna�s historic Victor Hugo Inn, the news totally
overwhelming locals. The landmark building, circa 1938, picturesquely
posed atop a rose strewn bluff overlooking the blue Pacific, was totally
reconstructed culminating in a phenomenally handsome venue with a bill
of fare that knew no bounds. Here arrived sophisticated Mexican cuisine
inspired by recipes from the western Mexican coast, abounding in
assorted seafood from the area, deliciously augmented with beef, poultry
and lamb specialties.
Under astute direction of gracious G.N.. Foaud Ziady, who pioneered
the concept from day one, Las Brisas has continued to excel in culinary
accomplishments exquisitely coordinated with its unparalleled seaside
vista and perceptively attention service. Instantaneous popularity
inspired the dynamic executive to create a sprawling alfresco patio
which staggers gracefully below the cocktail lounge. A full service bar,
and continually updated casual menu, is discounted 4 to 7 p.m. weekdays.
New enticement is a quintet of south-of-the-border inspired sushi
delights including spicy tuna nachos and jalapeno rellenos. Beyond
deliciously diversified dinner selections, lavish breakfast buffets ar
#14.95 and affordable lunch menus are weekday and Saturday attractions.
Come Sunday, the appealing 4-course champagne brunch has forever been
my personal favorite among any and all in the OC and the definitive
surprise when entertaining family and friends. Imagine settling at a
table overlooking colorful gardens and white capped seas as flutes of
bubbly sparkle constantly alongside baskets of freshly baked pastries as
you peruse the captivating menu. Perk your taste buds with a platter of
seasonal berries and melons.. Soothe your senses with a bowl of hearty
soup or crisp salad. Some dozen imaginative entrees, including a few
weekly quotes, start with assorted crepes, omeletes, seafood rellenos.
Hearty items from Las Btisas dinner menu include prepared to preference
filet mignon, NY steak, roast lamb and perfectly aldente sautéed
bivalves and crustacean tossed over angel hair pasta.
And the melange of varying desserts included in the reasonable $36
tab, showcases one of a devastating variety of cheese cakes,
profiteroles, coconut flan for openers, No to mention the velvety scoop
of gelato lavished with seasonal berries perched over a crunchy bowl of
slivered almonds bound with honey. Sunday never tasted so delicious.
311 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach., 949 497-5434
www.lasbrisaslagunabeach.com
Laguna Journal's restaurant editor, Glori Fickling, has
been writing industry news and reviews for a wide variety of
newspapers and magazines since the mid-sixties, most recently on
line ocnow.com (terminated temporarily last month by Cox
Communications) and along the way, our own popular Laguna
Journal for which she has contributed features over the past ten
years. Early on she was a West Coast fashion editor for
internationally renowned Women's Wear Daily, fashion stylist for
a major department store, introduced fashion shows along the
South Coast, and designed her own line of maternity clothes
based on the A-line concept prior to its exploitation by fashion
icon, Yves St. Laurent. Her claim to fame, however she says, was
co-authoring with her late-great husband, Forrest Ellison "Skip'
Fickling, the eleven world famous Honey West mystery novels
which became an ABC TV series in 1965 continuing on to garner a
coveted Golden Globe, an Academy nomination and a Mystery
Writers of America Edgar Allen Poe award. Restaurant information
for Laguna Journal may be expedited by reaching Glori at
wibcom@aol.com
or by phoning 949 494-4710.
www.lagunajournal.com
The Laguna Journal Restaurant Gold Star Rating
System
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PRIMITIVES LTD
WHEN IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA VISIT
PRIMITIVES AT THE VILLAGE IN LAGUNA
BEACH ON THE GOLD COAST. OVER LOOKING
THE PACIFIC OCEAN.

KOKOPELLI
is known as the fertility God - flute
player- shape changer- and is
approximately 2000 years old, to this
day he is found painted or carved on the
walls of ancient Indian dwellings. He
was believed to bring prosperity to
anyone who listened to his songs.....
His flute symbolizes happiness and joy.
Akkeeia
Zuni Prayer Beads: Handmade by Alan Kiva Each
bead has 365 cuts in the stones, one cut
for each day of the year for special
blessings of good health and
prosperity.
-
The MendoLily
ring is exclusively available at
Primitives in Laguna Beach and
through Stevenswood Spa Resort
and the Taste of Stevenswood in
Mendocino CA.
MENDO
MUSHROOM
Find us on Facebook,
Primitives, LTD -- Laguna Beach, or
click below:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laguna-Beach-CA/Primitives-LTD-Laguna-Beach/10150106246335032
Click on below
links for photo's and prices!
Zuni Prayer
Beads: Handmade by Alan Kiva.
DIAMONDS
PLUS ALL COLOR NATURAL DIAMONDS
Pendant/Choker Silver or Gold w/ varies
stones call to order
949 376-7632
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949
376-7632 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.
BRACELETS
STERLING SILVER EARRINGS
Sterling
Silver Rings with Genuine Gemstones.
We
have 10, 20, 30, 50, Strain
Liquid
Silver Jewelry Soft & Silky to your
touch! Starting at $36.00

Silver w/multi stone pendants $95.00 ea.
American
Indian Artifacts
Ordering By Credit Card Or Check:
Add shipping charges on all products.
Order one or more of the items by credit
card by calling Peggy at
949 376-7632
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949
376-7632 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.
Or send check or money order made out to
Peggy Webster to:
577 So. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA
92651.
Please include any special requests or
instructions including your address. We
will make our best efforts to match your
expectations 100%. For questions you can
reach Peggy at
949 376-7632
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949
376-7632 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.
All of the above items are available
at Primitives in Laguna Beach and
through Stevenswood Spa Resort and the
Taste of Stevenswood in Mendocino CA.
Primitives LTD 577 S. COAST HWY, LAGUNA
BEACH, CA
(949) 376-7632
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (949)
376-7632 end_of_the_skype_highlighting and
at: Stevenswood
Just 2 miles south of Mendocino Village
8211 Hwy One, Little River, California
Open from 10:00 Am to 9:00 PM daily.
Also in Mendocino Village downtown:
www.stevenswood.com
(707) 937-2810
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (707)
937-2810 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
or go
to:
NATIVE TRIBE-PRIMITIVES LTD
We now have Color Diamonds and Gold.
**************************************

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Presenting cuisine that will
inspire even the most discerning
palates. It’s our pleasure.
Savor the selection of the many
fine dining options available at
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel,
and prepare your senses for a
culinary experience like no
other.
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Quality and service are at the core
of the St. Regis Resort, Monarch
Beach food and beverage philosophy.
The resort offers six spectacular
ocean-view restaurants, providing
dedicated service and delectable
cuisine to please every guest’s
palate.
St. Regis dining establishments
include: Michael Mina's acclaimed
Stonehill Tavern, a Mobil-rated,
Four Star restaurant, featuring
modern American cuisine; Motif
restaurant, with cuisine reminiscent
of a European style café, is best
known for extraordinary Sunday
Champagne Brunches; Club 19,
situated along the first tee of the
Monarch Beach Golf Links, has
magnificent sea views and
specializes in classic American
favorites; The Monarch Bay Club, our
exclusive, private beach club, is
available to registered resort
guests, and offers California
char-grilled meats and seafood, just
steps from the ocean; Our Pool Bar &
Grill provides light American fare
in a casual, outdoor setting; Crust
Gourmet Coffee Shop is a perfect
stop for individuals on-the-go. Our
fantastic Lobby Lounge offers
signature cocktails and light fare
with cozy indoor or ocean-view
terrace seating where guests can
enjoy live entertainment.
For more information, please call
Restaurant Reservations at
949.234.3272
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Montage
Resort & Spa
Laguna Beach
***********************************

31106 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Phone: 949.499.2271
Toll Free Reservations:
1.800.223.3309
E-mail:
Aliso Creek Inn
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SplashesRestaurant
At beach level lies the congenial
Splashes Lounge, the ideal spot for
cocktails, lighter fare and sunsets
that must be seen to be believed.
For the ultimate in
romance, choose room service and
enjoy an exquisite meal on your
room's private balcony.
To view our Splashes Menus, click on
the following links:
Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
|
Dinner
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Desserts
For reservations at Splashes, or for
more information please call: (949)
376-2779.
1555 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, California
Located in the
Surf and Sand Hotel,
***********************************
French 75
A lively French bistro specializing in Prime American steaks prepared 'Parisian style' in 17th century designed blue steel plans, served with classic sauces and sides.
1464 S. Coast Hwy.
Laguna Beach CA
(949) 494-8444
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The Cliff Laguna Beach restaurant!
At Laguna Village

Oceanfront, open-air dining and cocktails return to the spectacularly-situated Laguna Village in Laguna Beach! After a complete overhaul and updating of the premises, The Cliff Laguna Beach is poised and ready to greet you with a delightful selection of California cuisine: lunch, dinner& shopping.
Where Great People, Art, Shops and Food all converge over looking the Gold Coast. Where at sunset you may be lucky and see the Green Flash.




Oceanfront, open-air dining and
cocktails return to the
spectacularly-situated Laguna
Village in Laguna Beach! After a
complete overhaul and updating of
the premises,
The Cliff Laguna
Beach is poised and ready to
greet you with a delightful
selection of California cuisine:
lunch, dinner& shopping.
Where Great People,
Art, Shops and Food all converge
over looking the Gold Coast. Where
at sunset you may be lucky and see
the
Green
Flash.
Laguna Village 577
South Coast Hwy. Laguna Beach, CA
(949)494-1956
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