Best of Laguna Beach

It’s a packed Halloween week (and beyond) in Laguna Beach! This week on my Best of Laguna Beach™ radio show, Ruben Flores joined me and we dove head first into SO MUCH STUFF. Equal parts festive and fiery, this episode swings from haunted houses to hopeful fixes for Laguna’s future – with Ruben’s signature real talk and my inside scoop.We talked Nosferatu set to live string quartet at the Rivian … and crazy Halloween block parties … and City Council agenda surprises … and pickleball politics and the state of our local retail and restaurants.We ALSO unpacked the latest on Hotel Laguna, Mo Honarkar’s property shuffle AND what’s brewing for the Coast Film Festival and Laguna Art Museum Art & Nature celebrations, both of which kick off on November 1st.In other words - it’s the quintessential Monster Mash for you this week!

🍷 This one’s for every wine lover who believes a great bottle should always come with a great story.In this Monday’s Best of Laguna Beach episode on KXFM 104.7, I sat down with veteran Hollywood Producer and Talent Agency Owner John Ufland, whose career started with War Games, The Terminator, and Bachelor Party – and whose latest passion project, A Second Pour, brings his storytelling genius into the world of wine.From Santa Ynez to Willamette Valley and beyond, John’s new venture curates super creative, unusual four-day wine experiences and winemaker dinners that spotlight the people and passion behind every bottle.

Oh man, did I have a fantastic interview on Monday’s KXFM 104.7 with the Laguna “Godfather of Restaurants & Rock & Roll” - Ivan Spiers.It took me 10 months to haul in this big fish and it was worth every minute.A life larger than Laguna Ivan Spears has lived more lives than most cats – music exec, surfer, apparel mogul and restaurateur. In this candid interview, he shares the wild path that took him from Zululand, South Africa to Laguna Beach, with detours through London’s 1960s rock scene, the Canary Islands surf breaks, “every farm town” in Central Cali, and SoCal’s early restaurant boom.   The madness behind Mozambiques originations When Ivan bought the long-shuttered Tortilla Flats building in 2000, he had no idea he was about to spend five years rebuilding it from the studs (with a HAZMAT team to boot). What emerged was Mozambique, a three-level restaurant and live music venue that’s now Laguna legend and home to some of the biggest touring bands around. Here’s his story on the “astounding discoveries” he made along the renovation way.   Daryl Hall was just hanging out on Mozambique’s Veranda?Ivan explains how a 15-minute casual convo with Daryl Hall (yes, that Daryl Hall) and Joe Walsh on his rooftop Veranda at Mozambique turned into his excursion to Pawling, New York two weeks later. What ensued from there? The birth of “Ivan’z House”Ivan reveals the story behind naming his recently (and massively) expanded upstairs music venue at Mozambique, and the painstaking soundproofing that makes the live shows electric and neighbor-approved.   The heartbreak of Skyloft and Bodega:He opens up about the rise and fall of Skyloft and Bodega on January 3rd this year, the battle with new absentee landlords after Sam Goldstein sold, and the toughest part about closing the doors and walking away. A rockin’ new chapter with RumariIvan and Italian-aficionado chef Braulio Mello are breathing new life into this beloved 44-year-old spot. The refreshed menu … the expanded and uber-popular happy hour, and the renovated dining room are making locals fall in love all over again.

On this week’s Best of Laguna Beach radio show, I was the only one on the mic because I had a LOT to say as I sped through a jam-packed October lineup of what I consider The Best of Laguna Events for October.From local lobster season celebrated at Coyote Grill and the return of Laguna’s funniest theater troupe, to Dana Wharf’s extended whale watching adventures, Rotary car shows, haunted trails, Mozambique’s legendary Halloween bash and our own Freddy Krueger getting his Hollywood star this is a fast-moving month ahead. I also shared insider foodie finds, including Rumari’s unbeatable happy hour and more.Buckle up, Buttercup! Your 45-minute radio show awaits.Whether you’re into theater, music, food, volunteering, or just being scared out of your cotton-pickin’ mind, October in Laguna has something for everyone!

This week on Best of Laguna Beach Radio,™ my dear friend joined me again - Ruben Flores (Laguna Nursery owner, in-demand Visionscape landscape designer, and community dynamo).The conversation soared from owl houses to Mozambique’s Ivan’z House Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute (wall to wall sold out), to Ruben’s recent Garden Walk, and my Secret Shopper restaurant insights. Together, we turned the spotlight on why Laguna is equal parts quirky, cultured, and fiercely local – from Sunset Serenades and South Laguna block parties to fire safety talks on Garden Walks, and the ever-evolving restaurant scene. Add in Nelson Coates’ Hollywood production design magic, The Morning Show’s season premiere, and LCAD’s latest milestone last Sunday, and you’ve got one jam-packed hour of Laguna love.Show Notes: What We Talked About …Owls to the Rescue: Diane shares how great horned owls chased 140+ unbearably noisy seagulls from her rooftop, and Ruben suggests the next move to keep them there.Community Beats: From Sunset Serenade concerts to a South Laguna block party to Ivan’z House unbelievable music lineup to The Cliff’s big pro football viewing nights, and our lunch at Lost Pier (on a Saturday!) … Laguna locals prove music + food = instant magic.Hollywood in Laguna: Nelson Coates’ production design was featured in Rivian’s showing of In the Heights last Thursday, just a day after the new season of The Morning Show (also his design) took center stage. We chat at length about his special use of Laguna art on all his sets.On Stage at the Playhouse: A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder wins my rave review as one of the best Playhouse I’ve seen in YEARS. Kid you not!Then, onward to … Restaurants & Reality Checks: When fall brings the slowdown, my (Diane’s) restaurant consulting business is quickly accelerating. Time to show restaurants how to keep seats full and locals happy. Ruben quizzes me on everything I do as a Restaurant Consultant …Locals-First Focus: Programs and perks that keep residents coming back when tourists fade.Smart Marketing: Helping restaurants move beyond “get people in” to actually retaining and re-engaging existing diners.New Pods of Revenue: Slow season is the best time to implement creative, long-range programs that create new streams of incomeSecret Shopper Insight: On-the-ground reports that show what really happens when owners aren’t watching.New Concepts: Guidance on site selection, permitting, and positioning for restaurants looking to land in Laguna.👉 Bottom line: I’m helping restaurants make small shifts that add up to big revenue.

On this week’s Best of Laguna Beach Radio Show & Podcast, I sat down with Sapphire Cellar.Craft .Cook Founding Partner Russ Bendel, and Partner/Executive Chef Jared Cook. Bendel and Cook are part of a small core team of restaurant pros, and I can safely say that this team knows what it takes to build restaurants that become community anchors. Before they took over former Chef Azmin’s Sapphire/Pantry space with their own brand and menu, they already had three successful restaurants – their first at San Clemente’s Vine, then Laguna Hills’ Ironwood and, then, Westcliff/Newport Beach’s Olea.They were handed the keys to Sapphire … literally DAYS before the Pandemic shutdown in 2020. How’s that for an interesting start?Now the keepers of seven thriving restaurants, Russ and Jared are not only talking about how the team jumped into action to survive the rollercoaster Pandemic, but sharing secrets behind Laguna’s most talked-about Breakfast Burrito, how many burger meat combos they tried before deciding on “The One,” and how their winter season Wine Dinners and seafood specials keep Sapphire buzzing all year long with their long-standing community of Laguna Beach locals.Show NotesThe Origin Story: How Russ grew up in the restaurant industry and Jared found his calling at age 5 in his mom’s Oregon kitchenFrom Vine to Sapphire: The team’s expansion into Laguna Beach, and why Sapphire’s 200-seat restaurant and prime location were irresistible.The Pandemic Pivot: Opening Sapphire in March 2020 … and pivoting overnight to takeout, Pantry breakfast burritos, and their now famous mason-jar craft cocktails.The Breakfast Burrito Legend: Jared’s research obsession to find the perfect combo … (he puts WHAT in that burrito??)Winter Wine Dinners That Sell Out in Hours: During winter months, these five-course experiences feature powerhouse wineries like Caymus, Silver Oak and Dave Phinney.Seafood & Clean Coastal Focus: From swordfish to countless pounds of oysters to “sexy seafood specials” (hey, Jared said, it, not me!), Sapphire leans into Laguna’s love for fresh, clean eating. Here are their personal favorites …Happy Hour & Beyond: Expanded bar menu, weekend brunch standouts (they name their personal favorites again), and the Pantry’s daily counter-service favorites.

Get ready, Laguna Beach – 70 chefs, wineries, and culinary stars are uniting for Chef Masters at the Festival of Arts grounds on Sunday, Sept. 28th, 5 - 9 p.m. (proceeds benefit 2 animal rescue groups).This Monday at “Best of Laguna Radio” at KXFM 104.7, I sat down with powerhouse culinary event producer Kristin Martin of KM Productions to talk about the jaw-dropping scale of this event, why it sells out every year, and how it benefits Priceless Pets and Carma OC animal rescues.The Big Event: Chef Masters returns September 28th, 5 - 9 p.m., at the Festival of Arts — 70 of Orange County’s top chefs with hundreds of tasting treats, live music, auctions and dancing under the stars.For a Cause: Tax deductible ticket sales support Priceless Pets and Carma OC, two well loved animal rescue nonprofits.Her Journey: Kristin’s leap from schoolteacher to one of Southern California’s most sought-after event producers.Chef Power: Why 70+ chefs (and wineries, breweries, and even mocktail makers) keep saying “yes” to her events.Behind the Curtain: Her craziest locations, the crazier set up demands, and the problem-solving mindset that keeps the show running smoothly.Ripple Effect: How these events boost nonprofits and shine a spotlight on chefs and restaurants long after the night ends.

On this episode of Best of Laguna Beach Radio at KXFM 104.7, I sat down again with Bruce Russo – the country’s most prolific restaurant designer and developer – for a behind-the-scenes look at why opening a restaurant in Laguna Beach can be such a different ballgame.Bruce has built nearly 600 restaurants nationwide, but even with that experience, Laguna’s more lengthy and segmented approval process proved more time-consuming than anywhere else he’s worked. From historical preservation requirements to disconnected rounds of planning and zoning meetings, this episode walks through the painful but eye-opening reality of bringing a restaurant to life in our town.Then, we jump into somewhat hysterical stories - like how Bruce and team do 6,000-square-foot nightclub overhauls … complete redesigns and new brands … in FIVE days 😳. Any way you play it, patience, organized strategy and “never say die” persistence matter no matter where you plant your restaurant!Laguna vs. everywhere else: Why Bruce says the city’s piecemeal approach drags projects out far longer than in other markets.First steps in the process: Site reviews, schematic designs and respectful “courtesy meetings” with (any) city department.Historical preservation headaches: Doors, windows, stucco walls, and even sprinkler placement became legendary discussions in Laguna.Permits and inspections: Six months, 20+ city meetings, and 15–25 inspections before final occupancy – far above the national average.Equipment pitfalls: How reusing outdated systems can derail approvals and why inspectors will never let it slide.The health inspection wait game: Delays that can hold restaurants hostage for months.When speed is the mandate: Nightclub makeovers in Dallas completed in under a week, with steep 💰💰💰 penalties if late, lol. (Bruce’s team never misses a deadline.)Engineering and finishes: How 60–70% of finishing and front-of-house materials are purchased by Bruce and team before permits even clear, and why engineering is the unseen hero.

In this week’s Best of Laguna Beach radio show, I sat down with Andrew Turula, the 18-year General Manager of The Cliff Restaurant & Live Music, who’s been keeping the iconic Cliff - our YES, only CLIFFside restaurant – running for nearly two decades.From raw scallops, fish tacos and the best steaks in the land … to ongoing events on their cliffside terrace over the ocean … and 6-day-a-week live music under the stars, Andrew shares insider stories on what makes The Cliff a beloved local spot and international draw. He opens up about Laguna’s shifting tourism scene, the restaurant’s unbeatable ocean views, their spectacular event venue, and what keeps his team motivated through 1,400-cover summer Saturdays.🏈 PLUS! Monday Night Football Just Got Interesting at The Cliff 😉Starting on the first Monday Football Night, The Cliff is rolling out a Pro Football-only Menu for Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays. Think chili cheese dogs, wings, nachos, tenders, and more with killer drink specials.But here’s the game-winning kick:Then for Monday Night Football ONLY, guess the final combined score of the game before the end of the 1st quarter, and if you nail it … The Cliff gives you a gift card for the entire amount. Yep, the entire tab (no more than two people, though - no pile ons allowed!)Key Points from our Interview18 Years at the Helm – Andrew Turula has grown with The Cliff since 2006, starting as a server and moving on up to GM.History of the Village (Who Knew? 😮 ) – Taken on by two sisters, Kathy Gibson and Sharon Heron, whose parents founded Laguna Village Arts & Flowers in the 1960s; today the Village hosts The Cliff plus 12+ artisan shops with strictly original, handmade work. Them’s the rules!Views & Venue – 30 restaurant tables and a stunning cliffside event venue that hosts up to 200+ guests with unbeatable sunset ceremonies over the ocean.Culinary Standouts – Fan favorites include raw scallops (their #1 appetizer and a special reserve with their providers), and a cocktail menu known for this …HAPPY HOUR + TACO TUESDAY - Happy Hour is Mondays- Friday, 3 pm - 6 pm and Taco Tuesday overlaps on its special day, 4 pm - close.Live Music Legacy – What started as open mic night has evolved into one of Laguna’s best live music programs, with bands and duos (like Perfect Blend) drawing 100+ crowds year-round.Phenomenal Event Venue for Your Next Group – Weddings, social events and corporate celebrations are fully customizable, with menus rivaling high-end steakhouses and every table, linen and chair you desire. (Andrew even got married there himself).Seasonal Shifts – Summer traffic has slowed post-COVID compared to neighboring beach towns, which Andrew attributes to weakened city marketing. What are his thoughts on where Laguna needs to shift (and quickly) to change it up?Locals & Loyalty – From Taco Tuesday feasts to happy hours and football-night specials, The Cliff continues to innovate while staying a community favorite.

In this week’s “Best of Laguna Beach Radio,” Laguna native and catering powerhouse Chef Evan Lewis dishes on her Sawdust Festival frenzy, the bittersweet close of her restaurant (Evan’s Gourmet), and why group dining + fully custom catering are her recipe for what’s next. From ahi sandwiches and lamb lollipops to Halloween party ribs shaped like skeletons, Chef Evan proves that food is never just food … it’s an experience!Text or call Chef Evan for cateringand group dining requests here:949-388-1569.Show Notes Chef Evan’s 11-year run at the Sawdust Festival and why her Angus burger + fries never stop flying out the window.The pivot: closing her restaurant service while doubling down on catering + group dining at her Thalia Street location.Why her spot is the perfect hidden gem for 20–36 person events – weddings, rehearsal dinners, or small business holiday parties.Inside her catering world: from 300-person plated dinners to six-course wine pairings (sorbet palate cleanser included!).How Chef Evan creates menus from scratch for various catering events, even pulling off authentic Armenian feasts without a playbook.Her playful catering side: Halloween skeleton ribs, pumpkin puke displays, and kid parties with trampolines + mini hot dogs.The “Create a Recipe” contest where one lucky listener gets Chef Evan to invent their dream dish.Growing up in Laguna: her first job at Taco Bell (yes, brown polyester pants included), plus the local hangouts she still loves.Rapid-fire Q&A: favorite wine, last meal pick, and why “organized fridge” is a caterer’s superpower.

In this Monday’s KXFM 104.7 radio show with my best buddy, Ruben Flores, we spilled the beans on the secret: August in Laguna isn’t “winding down” – it’s strutting down Coast Highway in full color.We’ve got blue whales crashing the party offshore, a 22-person pub crawl that tested every bartender’s patience (and pour skills), gardens spilling over with green goodness, and a fashion show made entirely of recycled “wait… that’s a dress?!” moments. Toss in Taco Tuesdays at a favorite local haunt, live music under twinkle lights, and a few insider fixes for your own backyard, and you’ve got the kind of late summer scoop that makes you glad you call this quirky little vortex home.Visit https://BestofLagunaBeach.com for all sorts of articles and updates on our magical coastal town. 

This week’s Best of Laguna Beach radio show guest was none other than my dear friend – and Hollywood’s visual maestro – Nelson Coates.He’s the award-winning production designer behind multiple movies, including Crazy Rich Asians, The Proposal, In the Heights, Flight and the Emmy-award winning series, The Morning Show… but come THIS Sunday, August 10th, from noon to 2 p.m., Nelson is right here in his beloved Laguna Beach emceeing one of our quirkiest, most creative events: the Festival of Arts Recycled Runway Show, which "airs" again this Sunday, Aug. 10th at the Festival grounds. We talked trash about the Festival’s Fashion Show this Sunday . . . We talked trash about the Fashion Show - literally – because ALL of these haute couture outfits are made from “recycled, reclaimed and repurposed” items like soup can labels, bubble wrap and cocktail stir sticks).And we covered global sets to local soul: Nelson’s Creative MissionWe talked about the latest creative genius in Nelson’s work, including the big numbers of Laguna Beach artists’ work he puts in his blockbuster sets … the “Easter eggs” he hides in every one of his films … a whole new perspective from Nelson on our nationally top-ranked Laguna College of Art & Design (LCAD - he’s been helping on that board for years) … and why he’s fiercely committed to keeping Laguna’s artistic colony and charm alive.Show Notes — What We Covered:🎬 What exactly a production designer does – and why Nelson’s fingerprints are all over your favorite films.👠 A sneak peek at Sunday’s Recycled Runway Show: bubble wrap ballgowns, flapper dresses made of cocktail stirrers, and enough Nelson haute couture puns to fill the FOA grounds and the Pageant amphitheater.🎉 The debut of a new … shall-we-say … “emerging artist” category at the Fashion Show this year … they might just give the competitors a run for their money.🧩 The art of the Nelson Coates Easter Egg in your best loved movies: storefronts, vinyl records, and subtle winks that only superfans and super friends will catch.☕ The now-iconic Armitage Café (yep, that’s ME thanks to Nelson! It’s a bit bigger than an Easter Egg, but who’s counting?) – and why Jennifer Aniston owes me a latte.🖼️ How Laguna Beach artists keep showing up in The Morning Show (and how you might spot your favorite gallery piece next season).🎓 Why LCAD is one of the top 5 art schools in the country – and how it’s already shaping the soul of our town.When The Morning Show Season 4 debuts and what to expect this year from its 3-year Production Designer choice, Nelson Coates.

He was the kid in all the commercials (well … he wasn’t the Welch’s Grape Juice kid, but he did the kid’s voice over for that … so it still counts). Now Tom Horvath is the marketing mastermind behind one of California’s oldest theaters, our own Laguna Playhouse.In this fast-paced and fun episode, I sit down with Tom to spill the backstage tea – everything from how Ariana Grande got her start right here … to special kids’ programming and youth theater … to why PBS is suddenly knocking at their door. Add in some Cardi B (who’s surprisingly bringing in Gen X-Y-Z kids), Dolly Parton, and Instagram line dancing taught by the Playhouse Controller (yes, really), and you’ve got one unforgettable ride through 105 years of theatrical magic – and the future it's leaping into now.Show Notes:From SpaghettiOs to Stagecraft: Tom’s journey from 5-year-old child actor to Disney performer to Laguna Playhouse’s fresh creative force.Ariana Grande, Neil Patrick Harris & Panto Pandemonium: Discover the British theatre twist that’s been launching stars from Laguna’s stage.Marketing Gold: How Tom used Cardi B to sell Eleanor Roosevelt … it worked! And how he’s working the overall marketing umbrella that’s new and refreshing.Line Dancing + Country Queens: Honky Tonk Angels is here – a story line around the original album creation by Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette – and you WILL sing along. Rhinestones required.The Golden Ticket Moment: During the holiday Panto run, kids from the audience can grab a “Golden Ticket” to hop on stage mid-show. Some of today’s rising stars started right there – in sparkly sneakers, belting out "five golden rings" to a cheering crowd.PBS Partnership + A New Era: Big visibility, new leadership with their latest big GM hire, Adele Adkins, and bold moves for the Playhouse’s next 100 years.🫶 Plus: Wally the legend (you’ll find him behind the bar during intermission), Golden Ticket kid cuteness, and why “the higher the hair, the closer to Jesus” is a marketing mood.

Move over dimly lit sushi dens. Laguna’s OTO Sushi is blazing its own trail with sunlight, sustainability and some surprise best-sellers.In this Monday’s radio show at KXFM Radio 104.7, restaurant owner Ash Cintas shares her journey from globe-trotting hospitality exec to local restaurateur with serious purpose. From new parklet to this weekend’s debut of a full bar’s inventive cocktails, we talk fresh fish, dry-aged fish, and behind-the-scenes story and vibe to this soulful spot.Show NotesThe 11/11/24 grand opening date that felt like destiny (even if it wasn’t planned)How her twin sister designed the restaurant and new parklet (and called dibs on being the younger-looking twin)From sustainable family fishing roots to a full-circle sushi concept with environmental valuesThe story behind the train station that led to the name "OTO"Why the cozy fireplace lounge became an accidental hitThe soju-based cocktails that wowed even Hollywood insidersWhat makes OTO's nigiri different: yukumi toppings customized to each fishOTO’s surprise menu hits: (yes, in a sushi house)Coming soon: Dry-aged fish and curated cocktail upgradesWhy opening in winter (not summer) was the best “mistake” she ever made with our localsBig space: Group dining and wedding receptions available for up to 117 peeps.Thoughts on curation in Laguna Beach and why Ash chose this town over Austin

From Bank Job to Sandwich God: Mike DeSanti’s Laguna DreamIt started with a napkin scribble, a secret family recipe, and a longtime dream to bring killer sandwiches to Laguna Beach. On this week’s Best of Laguna Beach radio show at KXFM 104.7, I sat down with Board & Brew Co-Owner Mike DeSanti to talk turkey – literally –and how Laguna finally landed its own bite of the Board & Brew empire.Show Notes:Sandwiches First, Beer Second (But Still Important)Board and Brew is not a bar with snacks – it’s a sandwich joint with serious food cred. The “secret sauce” is actually a generational “Nonna” dressing reworked for sandwich stardom. (I tried to pry it out of Mike, but he’s still mum on what that sauce is all about.)Sandos, Beers & Bank Statements: How 2 Roomies Built This Sandwich EmpireHow these under-30 roomies, Mike DeSanti and Bret Crutchfield, managed to get their first Board and Brew open (without a lot of credit and a lot of DIY).Iconic Location, Community VibesHe’s wanted this Laguna Beach space for years, and loved visiting this very same space as a kid. Bonus: Locals will recognize the mural by San Clemente surf artist Drew Brophy and feel the neighborhood love in every detail.DIY Sandwich Heaven16 classics on the menu (8 hot, 8 cold), but endless build-your-own combos. Plus: fresh-baked bread daily and no shortcuts – ever. (No commissaries, microwaves or frozen anything.) Plus the fastest sando slingers in the land (because waiting lines should only be short waits).Board, Brew & BeyondNo basic beers allowed. These guys have their own honey blonde and IPA collabs, plus a rotating cast of indie brews. Eight taps, small-batch only.Built for Locals, Not Just TouristsA visitor to Laguna Beach since he was a kid, Mike and his team are aiming for institution status by sponsoring art events and beach cleanups, and building a long-term home for Laguna residents. (Be sure to also get to know Joey Clark who, as a new business partner, will be manning much of the front in Laguna Beac

What happens when two renegade chefs decide Orange County deserves more than safe bets and forgettable fare? You get Darkroom – a moody, vinyl-spinning, chef-driven restaurant shaking up the OC scene, along with its elegant alter ego, Chrysalis, tucked inside like a well-kept secret.In this week’s radio show, I sat down with co-owners Zach Sherer and Drew Adams – Co-Creators of the enormously enticing Darkroom – to talk passion-fueled plates, numbered cocktails, record store obsessions and why they're already proving that the culinary elite can thrive beyond L.A. in our southerly climes. Show Notes:Darkroom's Dual Identity and Why They Chose O.C.: A vibey, vinyl-fueled restaurant meets its serene, eight-course-tasting-menu counterpart, Chrysalis – two experiences under one roof, run by two master chefs.Chef Chemistry: Zach and Drew met eight years ago and built their working dynamic on respect, no ego, and an unrelenting drive to make something better than what most of The O.C. had to offer.Designed Like a Mixtape: From hand-built interiors to nightly vinyl curation, Darkroom is more than a restaurant – it’s a vibe. Think Lower East Side New York or a Tokyo listening bar.Cocktails, Numbered Not Named: With no hard liquor license, the award-winning mixology team led by Gianna creates house-made amari, sherry-based spritzes, and culinary-forward cocktails that evolve with the seasons – up to #46 and counting.Princess Meets Punk Rock: These two “high flavor” cooking alums aren't afraid to mix high-concept techniques with fried chicken + caviar dinners. Listen as they discuss pulling flavors from local ingredients into unexpected formats.Chrysalis: Jazz in Food Form: With only 16 seats and ticketed seatings Thursday–Saturday, Chrysalis is their chef's table dream – hear details on this prix fixe experience.

After months of herculean effort, I finally got Laguna local favorite Chef Leo (Leandro) Bongarra to sit down and talk with me in this Monday’s “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show at KXFM 104.7. And oh … and what a surprising convo it was … I thought I knew this guy! The hour sailed by as we talked food and the food philosophy behind it … how he conjures those unexpected flavor pairings … his “Nonna’s” movie upbringing … why he’s chosen life as a (renowned) Consulting Chef. 🍷 He even spilled a couple dish secrets and one crazy-good Espresso Martini recipe you won’t find on any menu.We talk about Chef Leo first coming from behind the Hotel Joaquin curtain in 2023 to take over SEVEN food and beverage concepts in Laguna Beach in one week … and four days before the Festival of the Arts doors were supposed to open. Chef explains his job as a consulting chef for this primary reason.He then explains his upbringing with grandmothers on both sides cooking – on one side serving up food in family-owned restaurants and catering giant gatherings and – on the other side – cooking for his grandfather (a dignitary in town).When Chef Leo finally realized that men ALSO cook, he had to make a decision between two worlds, both of which his father specialized in.How his parents – who had eventually moved to Pasadena – lured Leo into moving to the U.S. (San Diego, to be exact). And THEN how Leo was lured into culinary school … in Rome.Chef explains the complicated science of SAUCES. He then talks through the two favorites sauces he loves to make.In 2005, Chef Leo was hired by the great Chef Celestino Drago at Enoteca Drago in Beverly Hills, where he first worked side by side with this Finnish chef – none other than Celebrity Chef Stefan Richter – who eventually asked Chef Leo to cook in his restaurants in Finland. Leo recalls working for WeHo’s Sunset Tower and catering the Oscar and Golden Globe after-party award shows and why he was really (humorously) always the pick to cater these events. (LOL)And, at last, we find out how this wandering chef extraordinaire was lured to cook in Laguna Beach. When Chef Leo first saw this PINK Motor Inn, he thought the joke was on him. But, eventually it was transformed into …We fast forward to Chef’s most recent excursion – opening a new restaurant in SoHo, Bowery Bungalow – and the fabulous Espresso Martini he created (It’s WAY different than what’s typically served up).And then we zoom back to Chef Leo’s every-now-and-then chef duties on a yacht and the surprising change in cooking that it requires.

OK, if this isn’t the most unique Father’s Day gift ever … come on! On yesterday’s " “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show, we talked about a veritable flotilla of fun arriving this weekend in Newport Beach.Here’s everything we discussed (and sang!) in our fast-moving show:🛥️ Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival’s theme this year: Stories of the Sea: Wooden Boats in Film & Fiction (Hollywood movies and best-selling books that created celebrities out of the classic wooden boat … or celebrities that procured and loved them)🚣‍♂️ This year’s fest has 35 boats incoming, including a 60-foot rowing boat and a shell designed by none other than George Pocock, the legendary boat builder of the racing shell featured in “Boys in the Boat.”⛴️ 🍔 🧑‍🎨 🎥 🖼️ 🍺 GIANT Festivities include tours of boats and yachts with plenty of chats with the captains … bay tours on John Wayne’s Wild Goose yacht … a huge BBQ and plenty of libation stations … live music throughout the day … Laguna’s own plein air painters … an original photo gallery of great movie legends with their wooden boats🎶 Our official Sea Shanty Singer Tony Cielo joins us with a fascinating history on not only the sea shanty world (these guys have been around for centuries) but his own history of how he added this uniqueness to his resumé.👩‍🦰 Tony sings “The Argo,” actually written around a woman sea captain, which was a much more common fixture than most of us think.🍾 The VIP Premiere Night on Friday, June 13th is a swank event with sneak peeks and tours of the wooden boats, top shelf champagne and cocktails, gourmet appetizers, live music, dancing, a live (crazy cool item) auction and more. Less than 20 tickets were remaining during our show, so get on it!🎶 Then, Tony Cielo finishes our show with a “newer” Sea Shanty song whose lyrics have to do with that repetitive food served at sea . . . “Chicken on a Raft.”

From sizzling sangrias to bluegrass under the stars, this first-ever Founders Circle “Best of Laguna Beach” radio replay is your front-row seat to what’s hot in Laguna this June.I’m serving up the latest on can’t-miss restaurant openings, local favorites you might’ve forgotten, and the best live music (even a global one in store) ➕ insider news on our art fests, and coastal gems happening all month long!Here’s a taste of what’s inside this month’s radio roundup:✅ The new spot everyone’s buzzing about 🍝✅ The can't-miss Father’s Day weekend gift - Hollywood’s boat festival (just 9 miles away) ⛵✅ Why NOW is the time to do this in Laguna before tourist season hits full swing..."

This Monday at KXFM 104.7’s “Best of Laguna Beach,” I welcomed Chef Nick Gstrein, Co-Partner of The Drake Laguna Beach and Co-Chef with his famed dad, Chef Paul. This show was a hoot - audio replay above ☝️, especially as Nick had plenty of amazing announcements and I introduced a new CONTEST I’m doing for live listeners … first run was bumpy on my side of the controls, but Chef Nick killed it!Here’s what we covered:✅ Popular plate switchups for spring, including Nick’s favorite, a play on a “light version” of Pork Schnitzel and how Nick uses a vast science to determine when it’s time to order for Peach Season.✅ Yet another fully acclimated science on how Chef Paul and Nick determine the latest “food trends” that they try out for their own.✅ When it comes to “tweezer” food, what does this former big-hand college football player do?✅ My most recent experience with Chef Paul’s “Tasting Menu” craziness. Chef Nick recommends where to reserve your space for the best tasting menu, the best evenings to ask for the Tasting Menu, why rounding up friends makes it even better, and when the chefs DON’T do a Tasting Menu. (lol)✅ Nick announces that he and his wife are expecting - a BOY! He announces the boy’s name and talks through the Gender Reveal Party and his biggest fear about that entire day. He also talks about how he first met his wife, a lead bartender in a popular watering hole in Austria.✅ Nick talks about their COMING SOON restaurant, The Drake at Sunset. ✅THEN, I introduce my “20 on the Line” Listener’s CONTEST … I do 20 rapid-fire questions for Chef Nick and if he answers them all in 2 minutes, listeners then get a shot at a $100 gift card from The Drake. Among the many questions, he notes his favorite musician that matches his cooking vibe, the first toy he’s going to be buying for his son, his biggest guilty pleasure food, whom he’d love to cook for (dead or alive), the name of the bar he met his wife in, the most underrated cooking ingredient of all time, his favorite cocktail at The Drake and more…

In this week’s KXFM 104.7’s radio show, Ruben Flores and I are talking about this City’s tourism, arts and brand alignment. In the show’s replay (above), we dive into the heart of what makes Laguna Beach Laguna Beach – and why, with the renewal contract of the Laguna Beach Tourism Marketing District on the table – many residents are engaging more deeply in the conversation about how we move forward.Quick background:As part of this Marketing District discussion, the City is considering the contract renewal for Visit Laguna Beach, our current tourism marketing agency. At the same time, this District also helps fund a number of beloved local arts programs through the TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax) – a 12% tax graciously collected by our hotels from visiting guests.That’s leading to some important community questions:What exactly does the TOT tax support?How do we ensure that Laguna’s celebrated arts scene – our original brand identity as an Art Colony – remains vibrant and well-funded?And as Laguna continues to evolve, are the current and proposed external marketing efforts aligned with the brand we’re proud to live?As a 30-year marketing agency owner and an obvious Laguna Beach advocate, I see both the opportunity and the responsibility here. And in this episode, Ruben and I unpack it all with heart and curiosity.We both spotlight the real wins first.What’s funded by hotel visitors’ tax dollars?Ruben talks about three uniquely great events he attended this last weekend, all funded by our annual TOT tax. Then we toss into ALL SORTS of related topics around the unique coolness of Laguna Beach:I announce incoming Piatti’s new Chef - a Michelin starred gent! More details here:This week’s new Mastering Restaurant Revenue podcast episode drop between me and Bruce Russo. This is a cool one - improving restaurant Take Out Programs to help restaurants create more revenue and make “take out” a more grand and glorious event, especially for our locals.The Community Garden’s Annual Spring Fling Festival and Potluck is May 24th - what does it entail?The HUGE DOT OF RED in Laguna Canyon . . . what does it belong to and why is this a great thing?The Charm House Tour this weekend. We explain its longterm popular appearance and its ticketing and trolley logistics, including Ruben actually ON one of the trolleys as a tour guide.Then, we circle back to the TOT considerations around the Visitor’s BureauWhy are residents raising concerns about a possible misalignment between Visit Laguna Beach and the evolving brand of our town?We explore community questions around proposed changes to arts funding – and what those shifts could mean for the programs that shape our heritage and cultural identity.With the Marketing District’s contract renewal on the table before the June 10th vote, we offer a few thoughtful reflections on how branding, arts support and city priorities can move forward together.See BestofLagunaBeach.com for a deeper dive and be a part of community comments. 

It was a particularly meaningful radio show day on Monday at KXFM 104.7 when I greeted my guests and good friends, Archie and Gretchen McConnell, with local (and visitor) favorite, Starfish Asian.When Starfish Laguna first opened its doors, it had the name, the vibe and the ambition but what it didn’t have was much of a safety net. The odds were brutal, the bank accounts were near empty, and the early days felt like a losing battle against the tide. But (then) Gretchen Andrews and Archie McConnell – now the husband-and-wife team behind this now-iconic restaurant – didn’t just hold on. They climbed, scraped and reimagined their way into one of Laguna’s most beloved dining experiences.This is the story of how they turned near-destitution into dazzling success … and why the name Starfish means more than you think.Here’s a quick recap (below) of the above audio replay:How Gretchen first came to managing Starfish and how Archie arrived in those very early days to “help right the listing boat” - docked in “the far outpost” of South Laguna Beach during major strip mall construction and after the mortgage fallout. (Great timing!)Archie’s memories of leaving his 10,000-square-foot restaurant at the Spectrum and arriving to the new Starfish … “with no humans.”Starfish’s first big decisions and wins that started shifting the winds in its favor and how the dining patron has changed in Starfish’s favor.The Starfish famed Opium Happy Hour and its enormous menu (30 food items + specialty cocktails) - why they went in this direction. (Occurring 7 days a week.)ShareThe even larger Starfish lunch and dinner menu and what’s changed in the last couple years since bringing on their corporate chef. Because the menu is so stuffed, they’ve resorted to cool seasonal specials that have knocked it out of the park. Gretchen and Archie list a few to ask for. Listen in to the litany of highest selling food items at Starfish ☝️Details on their first expansion, Starfish Newport at 19 Riverside Ave., Newport Beach, and the enormous kitchen that handles most of their off-site cateringHow their already-healthy take out program became the “800-pound gorilla” during COVID. And how people took to the Starfish cocktails once allowed as to-go items during COVID. 😳Starfish California expansion hopes and plans AND Starfish Outside-of-California expansion plans for this town … soon!Archie and Gretchen talk about life as a married restaurateur couple, their favorite foods in the area and around the world, dinners with their kids, and their first-ever 16-day trip to Thailand.The famed “Lagniappe” - what it means, what it contains and why it placed (once again) as one of the two most popular margaritas in the entire town of Laguna Beach yesterday. If you missed that article, it’s here:YOUR Vote: Top 5 Laguna MargaritasThey talk about their popular off-site catering and group dining as well as their super popular “Starfish On the Water” program for people cruising on a Duffy in Newport waters (great idea!). They even set up the Duffy rides on their website.Starfish Laguna, 30832 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach • 949-715-9200Starfish Newport, 91 Riverside Dr, Newport Beach •. 949-570-3990Both locations: Lunch 11 am- 3 pm – Opium Hour daily 3 pm - 6 pm – Dinner 3 pm to close

This week’s Best of Laguna Beach radio show covered the gamut! So much to cover! The full audio replay is above ☝️ with a more detailed descriptive of these quick notes I’ve posted below.Tickets are moving fassst!Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival - June 13-14I mentioned this one first because tickets are moving really, really fast. It’s a very cool immersive for everyone in your family.Balboa Yacht Club annually hosts this event and it is always open to the public. This year, it’s a Hollywood theme – Stories of the Sea: Wooden Boats in Film & Fiction – with classic wooden yachts and boats arriving from all points of the country that have been owned by Hollywood celebrities or have starred in movies, books and more. This “fest” is mammoth!Close to selling out 👇Friday Night, June 13th’s - VIP Premier party with limited tickets available, $95/person. Red carpet walk and VIP previews of the visiting boats with champagne pouring, high-end food stations, 3 wineries pouring their best, live music, dancing, live auctions and more.Saturday, June 14th All Day Pass, $15/person. Kids under 12 are free.Multiple sea and land events for kids and adults, alike. Check out plein air painters from Laguna Beach. Cruise on John Wayne’s boat. Hang out on Judy Garland’s famous boat. Check out the marine biology research lab on the famous Western Flyer from John Steinbeck’s famous novel (and movie). Plus . . . 30+ other Hollywood storied yachts and classic crafts, live bands, a big ol BBQ, movies and more. Free parking. Discounted lodging at Hyatt Regency. It’s all here:Grab Fri & Sat Tix Before They're GoneFri, May 2nd - Laguna Beach’s history in the moviesRivian South Coast Theater May 2nd, Doors open at 6:30 pmThe Heritage Committee is celebrating Laguna’s cinematic history with an original 1925 film from the city’s founding, along with archival clips and photographs showcasing Laguna Beach’s early – and ongoing – role in film history. Fri, May 2nd - The great Francois Dean & Celebrity Musician BandIvan’z House at Mozambique. Solid advice: Buy tickets in advance at Mozambique website. This will be a sold-out show.Sat, May 3rd - Laguna Beach Annual Gate & Garden TourMeet at downtown Water District building for VIP busses, 10 am - 4 pm.Buy Gate & Garden TixLaguna Beach Garden Club’s longtime major fundraiser for educational school gardens, local scholarships and community projects, this is an annual peek into magnificent private gardens and backyards that you can’t even believe exist in this town. Sun, May 4th - Tomato Plant FestAt the South Laguna Community Garden, pick up fantastic, homegrown tomato starter plants between 10 a.m and noon. (If I were you, I’d arrive early.) $5 per plant or 5 for $20.Big Restaurant Catch Up …The Drake’s Tasting Menu at the Chef’s Bar (this is a coming soon separate article)The Lumberyard’s always'-evolving menu of fresh tastes + tinned fish! I can’t stop ordering the Green Goddess Shrimp Bowl with grilled shrimp and farro or the yummy grilled mushroom yakitori.Wild Strawberry’s super-fresh sandwich and salad comboRecent fabulous tries from Evan’s Gourmet spring menus (OMG, Steak Frites to die for)GG’s Bistro’s as-always incomparable SangriaCoyote Grill’s new battered shrimp street tacos (served on happy hour, too!)And, again as always, 2 stellar experiences at Sapphire with lunch + evening pop-in drinks-and-appsUpdates on the Coming Soons in this town of ours :Piatti (222 Ocean ave. next to Marine Room) - They’ve had to push back their opening to mid June. Bummer.Board and Brew - (former Wild Taco on Ocean and Coast Highway) - Still working on opening day hopes with Mike DeSantis, the new owner.Truly Pizza – They’ve submitted plans for review for the old “3” space (former former Madison Square) … so that’s definitely in the works. And their commissary kitchen/bakery in South Laguna’s former Ti Amo location is also trundling right along. Plans are still for mid- to late June for Solag.Q Terrace - (former Red Dragon) – They’ve also submitted plans and tell me they’re opening in May . . . uhmmm, it may not be May, folks. They’re still in the plan review cycle with the City.Evidence of new sushi place going into former Laguna Sushi - I’ll get scoop on that for you shortly.And last but certainly not least . . . our infamous Seahorse TavernI popped in to talk with father and son of Seahorse - Garry Ledesma and Garry Jr. Garry, Sr. brought in two other investors to help with bringing the dream alive again - they call themselves “The Seahorse Crew.” In my radio show replay, above, I go into a great amount of detail about the delays they’ve been experiencing and what their hopes are for a faster opening process moving forward. As of now, they’ve just opened the Pearl Street General Store section with hopes to revive the Coffee Shop and THEN the Tavern. They’re also looking to turn what has previously served as a kitchen into a billiards room. And, eventually, they want to add a “speakeasy” type lounge as a sleek replacement to the back office.

Step Into Nautical Nostalgia (and a Bit of Old Hollywood Glitz)Yesterday, Monday, April 21st at the “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show, I had an especially fun discussion with Balboa Yacht Club’s Steve Paljieg, who’s Co-Chair for the club’s upcoming, always-amazing Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival on June 13th & 14th.Balboa Yacht Club annually hosts this event and it is always open to the public. This year, it’s a Hollywood theme – Stories of the Sea: Wooden Boats in Film & Fiction – with classic wooden boats arriving from all points of the country that have been owned by Hollywood celebrities or have starred in movies, books and more. This “fest” is taking on mammoth proportions and it’s time you scheduled some out-of-Laguna time for this fun.Before I get into all the details of our talk (below) here are the facts you need:All online tickets and live and silent auctions: https://NewportBeachWoodenBoatFestival.com👉 Where: Balboa Yacht Club, 1801 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach👉 Date: Friday & Saturday, June 13th & 14th👉 Free Parking: Park at Newport Beach Country Club for free shuttles to and from the event.👉 Lodging: The Hyatt Regency Newport Beach is offering special Festival rates with Balboa Yacht Club shuttles taking you to and from the festival. Check out their lodging page at the Wooden Boat Festival website to make reservations.Friday & Saturday in detail:💎 Friday Night, June 13th - The Friday Night Premier with limited tickets available at just $95/person. As Steve describes it, this is a “Hollywood-Glam-Meets-Maritime-History Opening Night Event” with red carpet walk, plenty of champagne, high-end food stations, 3 wineries featuring their vintages wines, live music and dancing, live auctions and - most importantly - special previews of the visiting boats with plenty of time to chat with their captains. (Just 300 tickets available and they’re already selling fast.)⛵ Saturday Festival, June 14th 10 am-6 pm - just $15/person (kids under 12 are free). This is a full day pass to multiple sea and land events for kids and adults, alike. Buy tickets online (a better bet) or at the door.Classic Boats. Hollywood Legends. One Dazzling Evening & Day in Newport …$95/person for the Friday night “Hollywood” premiere evening.$15/person for an all-day Saturday pass (kids under 12 are free.)Count me in! Let me know you’ll be there, too!https://NewportBeachWoodenBoatFestival.com

On my Best of Laguna Beach radio show at KXFM 104.7, my renowned, very wry regular guest - Bruce Russo - joins me as we pull back the curtain on what it really takes to go from “cool retail space” or “that great 2nd-gen restaurant space that’s going to be so easy to move into” to “fully operational, legally permitted, health-inspected, liquor-serving dining experience.”Bruce Russo’s seen it all – and built it all. And in this episode, he’s spilling hard-won lessons from his legendary 222 Ocean Avenue project (plus the innumerable times he’s built an entire nightclub in 5 days—but we’ll get to that 🪩).Show Notes/Summary:✅ 📞 The Power of a ‘Hey, Just Wanted to Loop You In’ Meeting We use the example of Bruce’s work on his retail-to-restaurant buildout at 222 Ocean Avenue here in Laguna Beach. Initially, here are the first 4-5 steps that take place even before formally meeting with the City’s Building Department.✅ What NOT to Do When Your Plans Are ‘Sealed’ (Trust Us, Don’t 🙅‍♂️)What it means when “plans are sealed” after being submitted to the City. And what it REALLY means when the client changes his/her mind about the plans in the process (bad idea).✅ Building Permit Applications require the first set of comments from the City, and then you’re dealing with Zoning and Planning Commission - all part of a multi-month process. If you pass the questions process from the Planning Commissioners, you’re in the clear! If you don’t … it’s back to the drawing board with rework, possible variances you have to get in play, and more.✅ The trials and tribulations of acquiring an expensive liquor license and what is still up to the City as to what you’re then allowed to serve.✅ The demolition THEN begins … and now all the multiple building inspections begin as you walk through every stage of construction from engineering trades (first!) and framing aspects before your flooring and sheetrock goes in.✅ You Can’t Serve Dinner If Your Kitchen’s Still on Backorder, Babe. 🍽️💡 (Bruce’s lessons learned) Why it’s smarter to get the kitchen package install done first before tackling the front-of-house completion.✅ When front-of-house finish and chairs, tables, marble slabs, custom fabrics, etc., actually begins.✅ 🏛️ Building in a Historical District? Buckle Up. The interesting complications with building to “historical” demands in a city and the only time a “historical district” is vetoed.✅ Bruce’s estimate on the TOTAL number of inspections that occur between start and the final Head Building Inspector’s inspection.✅ The Health Inspector Walked In While They Were Serving Tacos. Oops. 🌮🚫Where the Health Inspection comes in and how it becomes an issue when cities are relying on county health inspectors to do final approvals. This is where restaurant operators will get the most frustrated and make the mistake of bringing food into the space. And here’s what happens WHEN the health inspector shows up in your food-laden restaurant! 👀✅ 💡 (Bruce’s lessons learned) What to do and - more importantly - what to say when you feel you’re eternally waiting for that LAST inspection.✅ 🪩 From Permit Purgatory to Nightclub in 5 Days: Bruce tells his hilarious story of how he and his team have become renowned for their ability to build out entire nightclubs in a week (and while facing a giant penalty fee if they don’t meet the Friday re-open deadline). He talks through the stressed schedule that begins at 2:30 AM on a Sunday night and reopens five days later on Friday afternoons at 4:00 p.m.

On this week’s episode of Best of Laguna Beach on KXFM 104.7, I sat down with Laguna Nursery and Visionscape Design owner Ruben Flores to chat about the amazing events, spaces, and stories that make Laguna special – and why strong, authentic, in-the-trenches marketing matters more than ever.I'm publishing this replay early to encourage you to attend tonight's meeting and add your voice.As someone who's been celebrating and championing “Laguna’s best” for nearly two decades from radio to podcast and blog to books — I believe we owe it to this incredible town to ensure that our many unique stories and personalities are told with heart, soul and substance.Here’s everything we covered in this Monday’s “Best of Laguna Beach” show:What I really do for a living (heh) and my two new podcasts - one launched 3 weeks ago - Mastering Restaurant Revenue with me and Bruce Russo (the G.O.A.T. of restaurant design and build for profit making ease). Then, this Friday, April 11th, The Catalyst Code launches! It’s my behind-the-scenes recipe for real momentum and mindset shifts, served up for anyone hungry for more out of life and business. Please go check both out here (this might ask you for another email subscription but it’s free):Mastering Restaurant RevenueThe Catalyst Code PreviewThen, Ruben & I discussed creative moments in Laguna Beach that you just can’t find anywhere else:Why the Laguna Achievement Festival two weeks ago was such a stellar representation of our townRuben’s famed (and kinda hilarious) Garden WalksRestaurateur Mario Melendez (Rasta Taco) and lightbulb moment several years ago that created the first “margarita truck” in the country. Now his “Rasta Rita” margarita trucks have bloomed to a whole fleet. We talk about the crazy events and receptions he does (and not a bad idea for Father’s Day, either!)Restaurateur Cary Redfearn’s insatiable love for creative food and the new dishes he and Chef Armando Ortega keep coming up with at Lumberyard, including my new favorite, a grilled shrimp and perfectly-done farro bowl. This photo does it NO justice - super tasty and amazing.Ruben talks more about the current Main Beach renovation and our city’s “Great Art vs. Blah Plants.”The renowned Laguna Beach Garden Club’s Gate & Garden Tour is coming up May 3rd and 4th - it seriously sells out in advance every year, so be sure to grab your tickets:Gate & Garden Tour TixOn the subject of Laguna Beach Garden Club, we talk about the monthly guests they bring in and the “jaw dropping” presentation Hollywood Production Designer Nelson Coates delivered a couple weeks ago … and of course we then have to talk about our favorite movies where Nelson has created entire forests, gardens and even a garden scene in the “Crazy Rich Asians” wedding that is now a frontrunner of “best cinematic weddings of all time.”HERE is where we talk about the City Council meeting tonight with our initial thoughts on the visitor' bureau.The recent Rivian event that reminded Laguna Beach that the ENTIRE CITY was deemed a “national historic treasure” in 1984.I mentioned that the Drake Laguna Beach is now setting up a second location - The Drake on Sunset - on Sunset Blvd. right at the junction between WeHo and Beverly Hills. And no - we’re not losing our beloved chefs, Chef Paul and Chef Nick to L.A. They’ve both elected to stay here in Laguna Beach. (That larger story is forthcoming.)A quick chat about incoming fast food “counter” service incomings - Board & Brew soon to be in the Wild Taco location on Ocean Avenue and Coast Highway, and Chela’s now in the former North Laguna Lost Bean/Zeytoon location.

On my Best of Laguna Beach show this week, a very special guest joined me – Matt Stuhl – to talk about all the plans for his company’s incoming restaurant, Piatti on 222 Ocean Avenue (previously Taverna/Ocean at Main/Suenos/Cabana). Listen in as he talks about what they have in play and what’s in the plan. What a great introduction between a locally-centric restaurant company and the residents and visitors of Laguna Beach!Go to: BestofLagunaBeach.com for ongoing news on events, restaurants, chefs, artists and more, more more! Follow in social media @BestofLagunaBeachShow Notes✅ Why did the Founder Tim Harmon have an eye on Laguna Beach, this “very special new spot” per Matt?✅ Why Palisades Hospitality Group grows from the concept of “intentional growth” and what that means to Laguna Beach residents.✅ The hyper-local customization Piatti does in each of its communities.✅ Admittedly, I have a love for this restaurant because my now-business partner, Bruce Russo, initially developed this property from a 1950s floor plan for a bank (which eventually becoming a Big Dog store and then a rug store before Taverna was constructed). Matt talks about the unique differences in this building and build-out that proved the winning decision. We talk about Bruce’s love for this patio and what he did to restore the one-of-a-kind fountain there. This leads to our discussion on one of Matt’s favorite storied concepts he developed, and why these occasional stories stick with you as you create the concept.✅ Piatti’s intention to not just “fill a hole” but complement the restaurants around them while zeroing in on what might be missing in the town’s current food offerings. (They have some ideas.)✅ Matt talks about his favorite food items on the Piatti menu but his anticipation of what their Laguna guests will demarcate as their favorites moving forward.✅ Matt addresses their grandfathered night club permit at the 222 Ocean Avenue location … and what they’re going to do with it.✅ We talk about their Piatti specially labeled wines and Matt’s initial skeptic’s alarm when he first came on board after enduring other restaurants’ private brand jugs of wine. He talks about the differences in their Piatti private label wine and the pride he takes in the special vintages they create.✅ What’s their plan for Opening Day in May? They’re hiring now! They’re also honing in on their chef, and Matt talks about the process they go through with prospective chefs. Here’s where to go for applications:Apply to Work at Piatti: Careers✅ Matt started in restaurants because he was an actor … and he did the stereotypical thing of “acting like a restaurant server” while working to be an actor. The decision to move into hospitality involved his physical move from Minneapolis to California … and here’s why.“I want to know the nooks and crannies of every operation. I want to be able to have a boutique experience where we get to know every guest and every guest is welcomed back often, and we build our experiences around what they want and invite them to be part of the hospitality experience.” - Matt Stuhl✅ Before joining Palisades Hospitality, Matt worked with two boutique hotel groups in the Oceanside area in that redevelopment process. Here’s how he compares it to Laguna Beach. “You’ve got to be part of a community. You can’t just walk in and think you can take over a community no matter how much money you have.”✅ Matt leaves us with his favorite Piatti dish … and why it’s his favorite.

On Monday, at “Best of Laguna Beach’s” radio show at KXFM 104.7, Laguna Nursery and Visionscape Design Owner Ruben Flores joins me for ALL sorts of discussion, from new restaurants to sorry construction fencing at Main Beach … to our dining in 12 restaurants last week and positive moves we’re seeing from the new City Manager and Planning Commission.Here’s a quick summary of this week’s newsy show:✅ Last week’s launch of “Mastering Restaurant Revenue,” the podcast between me and restaurant industry GOAT Bruce Russo, was a happy and successful launch. Ruben says that he can’t go into any restaurant without now surveying “revenue pods.” We’ve done our job!✅ All about Chef Maro Molteni - his departure years ago from Maro Wood Grill and his subsequent, multi-restaurant chef’s journey in Laguna Beach UNTIL he decided to leave us to build his own restaurant in Laguna Niguel. 😩 On Sunday, Ruben, Nelson and I got to check out Chef Maro’s almost-open digs as he rounds the final turn to his opening day. (More on that later.)Big brother Martin Molteni (left) flew up from Argentina to help Maro (right) finalize the kitchen prep and menu before Chef Maro’s grand opening of his own restaurant in April - in Laguna Niguel.✅ Ruben asks me to put my restaurant consulting hat on to share my thoughts about Maro’s kitchen as well as the smart “revenue pods” Maro has in place as soon as the doors open.✅ The huge marketing benefit of putting signage in place for your restaurant even BEFORE renovation begins. Ruben uses a similar example in his own landscaping world - what he puts in first.✅ ALL the Laguna restaurants we dined in last week - TWELVE restaurants! I published that article review on Tuesday this week:Read: Last Week's Eats✅ Laguna Beach restaurants capitalizing on “take out” (yet another revenue pod that Bruce and I talk about).✅ The more expensive dishes in town. Who eats these? (Because people ARE eating them.)✅ Ruben mentions the “embarrassing” and “horrendous” construction fencing efforts at Main Beach. We offer several options for a better branding and luxurious feel for our town.Right now we have the shabbiest curtains on our Window to the Sea.”  - Ruben Flores✅ The new City Manager (Dave Kiff), who’s sending out “forward-thinking emails” about upcoming City Council agendas. This is an awesome move, particularly for residents who feel that the last few years have left them shut out of major city decisions. We bring up the positive changes we’ve also seen in the Planning Commission, and talk briefly about last week’s meeting where the commissioners and City Manager handled the rather woeful architectural design of the South Laguna new fire station.✅ Ruben begs the City to trim a decades-old Carob tree before it fails completely. He then moves into talking about our parks as “jewels” instead of “just plots of land that sit there,” and what can be done there, too.✅ We close with an invite to Ruben’s popular “Garden Walk,” occurring again this Saturday, March 29th.And that’s a wrap!“See” you next week at KXFM Radio 104.7, Laguna’s only radio station! Thanks for being my listeners!

In Monday, March 17th’s “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show (audio replay above) at Laguna’s only KXFM Radio 104.7, I brought in my two favorite regulars – together – for THREE big discussions:🔥 New behind-the-scenes restaurant podcast!🍽️ My latest updates on the entire restaurant scene in Laguna🚧 Big renovation beginning at Main BeachJoining me was Ruben Flores, owner of Laguna Nursery and Visionscape, Inc. and a significant voice in Laguna Beach.Then, I brought Bruce Russo back into Monday’s mix, because this national G.O.A.T of restaurant industry design and build had a lot to say about all three discussion points.1st discussion - our new podcast launching, Mastering Restaurant Revenue!On Tuesday, Bruce and I launched our podcast after realizing that his chats with me on the “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show about creating smarter design and profitable restaurants were some of my most popular shows. This subject matter clearly attracts chefs, restaurateurs, investors and a surprising audience of people who just like to eat out. Now, our weekly podcast (separate of my weekly radio show, mind you) strictly focuses on this mad, mysterious science of restaurant success.Our first 3 podcast episodes dropped TuesdayAll of our episodes are available on your favorite podcast platform and the video episodes are here at our YouTube station where we’d love 💓 new subscribers:Watch Episodes: YouTubeThe three of us quickly reviewed:Ep #1 - The Profit First Restaurant Playbook - This introductory episode talks about Bruce’s realization two decades ago that restaurants are really manufacturing plants. From there, it changed everything in how he designed restaurants.Ep #2 - Secret Revenue Pods for Every Restaurant - most restaurants don’t take advantage of the many revenue “pods” that can be implemented in any restaurant concept.Ep #3 - Renovation, Rats and Money Traps - We discuss whacky, sometimes ghastly MacGyver hacks that we’ve seen during restaurant inspections in behalf of our interested restaurant operators looking at the space. Here’s what you need to look out for before you sign a lease.We’ve also set up a Mastering Restaurant Revenue website with perks and bonuses:Podcast replays the moment they drop out there in the world (you won’t see them here at the Best of Laguna Beach website)Secret Subscriber podcast bonusesQ-and-A live sessions with usCommunity quizzes and polls (because we use your answers to dive into what you really want to hear)Free Subscription: Restaurant Revenue2nd discussion - Laguna’s current map of Food & Beverage ConceptsThen, we turned to my recently updated spreadsheets on Laguna’s Food & Beverage concepts. My first spreadsheet is about every restaurant in this town from the 1980s forward, when they’ve opened and when they’ve closed. This helps me watch trends over time. Also noted:I give the lowdown on when culinary really started in this town “The Grand Trifecta.”While “casual dining” (counter service) is occurring more in Laguna Beach, our Laguna residents counter service-oriented?The second spreadsheet is about where each F&B concept is located in Laguna Beach (coffee shops to fine dining and everything in between). This allows Bruce and I to look at the entire map of the city and how we’re accommodating our residents and visitors in the various sections of our town.Bruce talks about the real problem behind so many cars coming into town.Our opinions on day trippers and their coolers, and Ruben asks, “How do we get to the point where we look at ‘day trippers’ as a positive thing for all us who live here in Laguna Beach?”With the decline in our Chef driven “destination restaurants,” are we losing our culinary scene caché?We talk about the high number of restaurants in the Downtown Corridor that are not benefitting from the marketing attention invested on the Promenade on Forest Avenue.Bruce shares the solutions he’s put in place for other cities to expedite vacancy issues and permitting processes with every party involved.3rd discussion - Ruben then points to the renovation of Main BeachWe discuss the lost opportunity in branding Laguna Beach in a more attractive way, and Bruce weighs in with options he does at his sites around the country.Ruben also notes that two Main Beach long-time palm trees that were gifted to the City were slated to be chopped down before “vigorous intervention” kept that from happening.Thanks, again, for listening in on my “Best of Laguna Beach” show. I’m live on Mondays each week at 2 p.m. PT/5 pm ET. Tune in at KXFM 104.7 or, if you’re not in Laguna proper, just live stream at KXFMRadio.org or download the KXFM Radio app!

This week’s Monday radio show, “Best of Laguna Beach,” was especially fun for me because it was my first time meeting and talking with Executive Chef Eric BosRau from Finney’s Crafthouse – uniquely named here, actually, as Finney’s at the White House in homage to our first established restaurant in Laguna Beach (1918).Filling those 105-year old shoes might have been daunting to most restaurant groups, but Finney’s took on the challenge, opening on March 20, 2023. (They initially took over the unrenovated space in September 2021, which required an 18-month overhaul before they first opened their doors.)Chef Eric has been with the Finney’s group from its initial concept moments forward. Now he oversees 13 (soon to be 16) restaurants for the family-owned business.And THEN I begin talking with Chef Eric. Here’s what we covered:Chef Eric’s all-time favorite menu item.We discuss the family-owned Finney’s with twin brothers, Greg and Brad Finefrock. Currently, the company is working to expand with 3 restaurants every single year. When they first landed in Laguna Beach, they had opened 7 Finney’s restaurants. Now they’re at 13 restaurants with another 3 opening this year.We talk the “entirely different audiences” between their restaurant locations like Westlake Village, Santa Barbara, SLO and Laguna Beach.Their uniquely defining brand (pricing is SO low … and it’s great fun, too)The upcoming March Madness season and its happy effect in Finney’s (TVs ad more TVs!)The brothers’ initial delight upon hearing that The White House was available … and their initial plan to open their Laguna Beach operation in 5 months (I announced it in 2021) … and why it took way longer than that. What were the biggest holdups?Chef Eric mentions Finney’s killer craft cocktails and what makes them so different (aside from the remarkable low pricing).Eric runs through the best-selling menu mix of 21 appetizers, 7 salads, 7 pizzas, 15 sandwiches & burgers, and more.Chef Eric explains how being a latchkey kid spawned his cooking career (unbeknownst to him) and the odd jobs he had that serendipitously ended up behind the kitchen line.We talk about his first cooking jobs at Duke’s (and my affinity for these restaurants) and how he ended up meeting and working with Greg Finefrock when Greg was ready to begin a concept of his own. How did they land on this particular concept?Chef Eric’s ONE food item he’d prefer if he were stranded on a deserted island.What residents in Laguna Beach eat during the winter months at Finney’s vs. the spring/summer, and what Finney’s is doing to keep the love happening with the residents. We further talk about the differences between OUR “seasonal town” vs. other seasonal towns like Santa Barbara, and why the difference in traffic and volume.The life of a corporate Exec Chef with (now nearly) 16 restaurants to oversee and how he continues to create new menu items in between all those visits.Chef Eric’s favorite Laguna Beach restaurant (that’s not his own).We discuss final “need to knows” about Finney’s at The White House:pretty much all of the 70 food items are available for take-out (Door Dash and Uber Eats)30+ beers, many of which are “hyper-local” …Chef’s favorite craft cocktail …Chef’s favorite burger (with in-house cured peppered bacon, yum) …the best-selling burger currently at the Laguna location …a quick rundown of all the “from scratch” items in their kitchen (including their own seasonings and sale mixes)great (and many) gluten-free items as well as vegan workaroundsHappy Hour is Mon - Fri, 3 - 5 p.m. Get a full meal with a craft cocktail or beer for about $20 total.

On Monday, Feb 17th, it was a fun, fast-moving interview with Chef Evan Lewis of the year-old restaurant, Evan’s Gourmet, my most favorite restaurant find this year!860 Glenneyre Street (Thalia and Glenneyre)Open Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat evenings, 5 pm - 9 pmSunday Brunch, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. with live musicReservations: Call or text: (949) 388-1568(I always recommend sitting at the Chef’s Counter/Bar)Show Notes: Chef Evan explains her “eclectic/fusion” menu, a compilation of her favorite catering items.We talk about the ONE stellar moment that got her into catering and her subsequent 30 years of catering (that she still does), including long-time clients that she cooks for 3 days a week for 24 years!Chef Evan has also been a well-loved fixture at Sawdust for 10 years (both summer and Winter Fantasy festivals). She talks about how she prepared to win the coveted spot and the unique issues of hiring help for her Sawdust location.We talk about favorite margaritas in preparation for National Margarita Day this Saturday, Feb. 22nd. Where’s Chef Evan’s favorite? We then toss back into her menu as she serves best-selling margaritas, mimosas, espresso martinis and more from her saké-based spirits menu. Then, it’s a review of how she selects her wines to specifically pair with her menus😋 Then it's Chef Evan’s NEW Spring Menu, arriving the first week of March. She’s tested it ALL on her catering clients, even a party she catered the evening previous!Chef Evan talks about her live musicians in the restaurant and that the 3rd Thursday of the month is an open mic event with “Story Time with Mijo”The learning curves Chef Evan dealt with as a first-year full-service restaurant owner. We discuss the issue of restaurant owners paying for EVERY reservation people make, even if they don’t bother to show up and cancel the reservation. People! Be kind about your restaurant reservations! And, we discuss those people who change everything about a menu item and then complain about it in Yelp.Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menu options at Evan’s Gourmet.When Chef Evan is doing her 48-hour fast, this is what she does to occupy her time …Chef Evan’s group dining bookings is rapidly expanding (for groups up to 35) and this is exactly why …

Grab Tix: "Artiste" Wine Tasting Comes to LagunaOn my “Best of Laguna Beach” show, Ruben Flores and I interviewed the Founder of Artiste Wines out of Santa Ynez in Northern Santa Barbara County. Bion Rice, the founder of this truly lovely wine, is a 5th generation winemaker after his great-great-great grandfather first got into the industry in Napa Valley in the 1890s.As we announced in yesterday’s radio show …Bion and his Artiste collection of wines is coming to Laguna Beach for a V.I.P. wine tasting event on Sunday, March 9th. It takes place in the first level “Parrot Room” at Mozambique between noon and 3:00.Tickets are just $50. This is NOT going to be a massively large event - it’s truly numerous tastings of Artiste wines, and one-on-one wine discussion and food pairings with one of the most unique wine brands I’ve ever known.The link is here: https://www.artiste.com/events/laguna-beach-sips-2025-artiste-wine-food-experience/IN THE INTERVIEW:Bion talks about growing up in a grape growing/winemaking family (Comparatively, Ruben and I talk about our first wine drinking experiences. NOT the same.) He mentions his family’s vineyard and the 1994 moment when he turned his attention away from being an elementary school teacher to actually walking the path of a 5th generation wine maker.We discuss the 200+ “boutique” wineries in Santa Barbara and why the growth was so expansive from the time of his family’s “Sunstone” creation, the 21st winery in the region. Bion then shares the actions he took to eventually own his own winery, “Artiste.com.”The very unusual uniqueness of Artiste winesBion shares his enduring love of Impressonist art and how he’s so uniquely emulated that philosophy into his wines. This is quite an amazing story!Bion’s REAL reasons for coming to the art gallery mecca of Laguna BeachIn his closing, Bion is looking to expand his artist-driven labels specifically with Laguna Beach artists. Listen in as he introduces his ideas.

In Monday, Jan. 27th’s “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show (audio replay above) at Laguna’s only KXFM Radio 104.7, I had a trifecta winning ticket for you.#1 – It was Chris Olsen, the well-loved Owner/Operator or Wine Gallery as well as the Co-Owner of Miki Sushi with Greg Washer.#2 - Then, I introduced Celebrity Chef Mary Schoenlein, who created the renowned Mary’s Marvelous breakfast and lunch shops in Amagansett and East Hampton of Long Island, NY.#3 - And throughout the show,  we offered plenty of hints and tips to welcome Chinese New Year, The Year of the Wood Snake, which debuted yesterday (Wed, Jan. 29th). So many fun things you can do to bring in greater wealth, health and happiness!

In this Monday, Jan 20th’s radio show at KXFM 104.7 (repay above), my guest Bruce Russo (the country’s largest restaurant developer) and I talk about the massive undertaking L.A. retailers and restaurants face in their rebuild. There are SO many layers here that will have to be addressed. All politics aside, this disaster will prove the largest rebuild undertaking in the country. Here’s why …And THEN, we talk about the potential for greater (and specific) support for Laguna Beach’s restaurants.The structural and underground difference between buildings destroyed in hurricane or tornadoes vs. buildings destroyed by fire.When communities are put together piece by piece with retrofit, etc., now that chalkboard has been wiped clean. It’s now a huge re-zoning and planning effort along with express and executable building permit processes.The liquor license conundrum that has now appeared for all these ruined restaurants and bars, and all the reasons why. (The same issue is happening with the existing restaurants at the Dana Point Harbor that want to continue operation in a new space while the reconstruction is happening.)“The easy part is getting the restaurant built. It’s the headwinds you have to deal with it to get it to the point where you can actually make the building go vertical.” - Bruce RussoBruce shares what other cities did for businesses in quick rebuild processes after hurricanes and tornadoes. He also mentions better solutions in other large cities to expedite the plan review and approvals process.It’s what we call the “quantum leap mindset” where you effectively “wrinkle” the time, and pull the ends of the circumstance together to leap to a faster solution. - Diane ArmitageWe discuss the expected glut of demolition material and the expected scarcity of new building materials. Bruce offers a time estimate for a single restaurant rebuild from this moment forward. He also offers an opinion on what he’d do if he were these restaurant owners.We then switch to Diane’s recent interview with KXFM Radio’s Billy Fried (Jan. 14th on Laguna Talks) about the state of restaurants in Laguna Beach. (His replay has not posted yet, but I’ll keep you in the loop when it does.)Billy and I discussed the “poshness” of Laguna Beach, the mystique that it had 20 years ago and we’re missing that now. Why is that? Is Laguna Beach so far behind that it’s too far behind now? What’s 20, 30 and 40 years old isn’t attracting the 30s to 40s aged demographic.We talk about the Laguna Beach restaurants that still attract the higher revenue clientele. And, even while the hotels are still gathering the higher revenue demographic, that’s not what’s day tripping into our town anymore. How did we end up with such disparity?“It’s not like the people don’t exist and that they’re not willing to come to Laguna Beach.” - Diane Armitage“It didn’t happen overnight. The opulence didn’t swim out to sea overnight. It went piece by piece. When the pieces went away, they weren’t replaced with equal to or better.” - Bruce RussoThe difference between Newport Coast and Laguna Beach.The importance of having a city restaurant advocate who can hear why these owners and chefs are thinking of leaving before they leave. We also talk about Javier Sosa of Javier’s leaving Laguna Beach and the “long shot” he took to build out the giant he created in Newport Coast.Bruce proffers his opinion of a parking garage in Laguna Beach and retail anchors vs. restaurant anchors.We talk about the new Piatti group coming into the restaurant Bruce designed and built here in Laguna Beach at 222 Ocean Blvd (will they change the scenario?)Then, we make final comments on Dana Point’s recent development solution, and our hopes to get involved in an expansion of restaurant support, not only for the Downtown Corridor but extending through North and South Laguna’s quadrants.The expectation is not going to change if nothing is done.” - Bruce RussoMedia: For interviews, contact [email protected] or just hit “reply” on this email.

On Monday, Jan. 13th, Best of Laguna Beach’s™ radio show started with a bang for this New Year. My “regular” guest, Ruben Flores, was back in the studio with me to talk about everything from fires to preparing for fires here in Laguna Beach … to Ivan Spiers’ abrupt closure of two popular restaurants … to soups that we love in restaurants all around town (because we all need some love and comfort these days). What we covered: Mon, Jan. 13th’s show notes:The easiest way to “harden” our properties against firesWhile greenery and a canopy of green is actually an ember stopper, here’s what we need to do with our trees and landscaping.Major items that have ben put in place since the City’s 2019 Wildfire Plan.Our “Farmer Leo’s” heroic action this past weekend to stop a fire at the edge of the Ranch grounds.Ruben mentions this week’s “unscheduled” panga boat arrival at Victoria Beach with a purported 30 interlopers coming ashore. What “deserves” notification from the City to the residents?I mention the “10 Navy Beans in Your Pocket” article I wrote in my “Golden Ticket” blog - DianeArmitageBlog.com - and how to more consciously deal with daily duress and trauma, especially as we deal with these fires and threats of fires. The “calm” our town is currently providing to L.A. evacuees and people just trying to escape the chaos. Patience, friends! I remind people about the generosity and support we received when we went through our own devastating fires in Laguna in 1993. Time to pay it forward!We review my story on the Ivan Spiers closure of Skyloft and Bodega with comments from him and the property managers who are based in L.A. We also talk about the former landlord, Sam Goldstein and our continued support of Ivan at Mozambique and Rumari. If you missed that article, it’s here: BestofLagunaBeach.comWe mention restaurants in Laguna that have specifically contacted me about hiring any of the 180 employees that were let go after the Skyloft/Bodega closure.Ruben talks about the push to plant “native shrubbery and trees” here and the even higher priority of keeping those plantings compatible with the environments they’re planted in.We talk about Jason Piggott’s new organic/biodynamic wine shop in town, A La Carte. It’s a block south of Penguin Cafe and across PCH from Laguna Coffee. Ruben and I review the wines we both purchased and talk about Jason’s immense knowledge on the “levels” of organic winemaking.We review our weekend’s Gu Ramen experience, our town’s noodle shop (Thalia and PCH). Then we wax euphoric on our favorite soups in town, including El Ranchito, South of Nick’s, Coyote Grill, 230 Forest, Lumberyard, NEA Pizza, Starfish, Mozambique and Evan’s Gourmet cornucopia of soups. See my more detailed “Best of Laguna Beach Soups” article (plus a fab gift from Chef Evan of Evan’s Gourmet - her quite famous Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe.) Also at BestofLagunaBeach.comRuben briefly mentions several specific “massive” trees that are struggling and dying in town. What can we do to stop this?We wrap with great meals at Rumari, the next expected “rush” weekend here in Laguna Beach, and Ruben talks about a fantastic Cabo San Lucas restaurant he and Nelson visited and why it was such a standout. Ruben ends with a café idea for the Laguna Art Museum (not a bad idea if I do say so myself).

On Monday, Dec. 30th (seems like weeks ago already), I took a bit of a detour from my regularly scheduled “Best of Laguna Beach” show at KXFM Radio 104.7To wrap up the year, I told two personal (and sort of funny) stories.I first talked about how most of the residents here CHOSE Laguna Beach for their permanent residence … me included.How I actually arrived here is a rather astounding story.Then, I shared an old Christmas letter I wrote way back in 2003 about my beloved great Pyrenees, Merlin, passing away just a few days prior. Merlin was my 12-year companion who moved multiple times with me … four time, alone, to and within Laguna Beach.That particular Christmas letter about Merlin ended up being shared to a list of thousands of people, and it generated thousands and thousands of responses directly to me. In the short letter, I wrote about the greatest lessons Merlin taught me, and apparently those teaching moments from the lovable fur ball struck a chord with people all over the world. It was amazing. So, the Christmas letter eventually became a small e-book, and this is what I chose to read to all of you lovely listeners in my last show of the year.Here’s the e-book link if you’re interested.bit.ly/421WQCt

On Monday, Dec. 16th, The Drake’s Chef Nick Gstrein joined me in the KXFM 104.7 radio studio for another exclusive interview on the life and times of Laguna Beach chefs.The Drake Laguna Beach has been a rocking, high-level dining experience from its opening day with live jazz, blues and contemporary classic music 7 nights a week. This is also a rare entity in that it’s a father-son chef duo in the kitchen.In all the times I’ve visited The Drake Laguna Beach, it’s been nothing short of a dazzling experience. Now it’s time for you to learn more as we dive into this interview.SHOW NOTES:My initial coverage on the coming of the Drake Laguna Beach in May 2019, the reasons why Alec Glasser recreated “The Drake” experience here, and what a will without a way can still do.How the Drake crew broke through the former “Tabu” walls to add their significant bar and lounge.Nick talks about his Austrian heritage, the longstanding family hotel in the Alps and his Dad’s (Chef Paul’s) culinary schooling and quick rise in the culinary world, from Austria to the U.S. when he arrived in the 1980s.The reason why Chef Paul chose to have an exhibition kitchen after decades of cooking “behind the swinging doors” of most restaurants.Nick’s scholarship days at UNLV as a football player and we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of culinary school, Nick’s “training” in his uncle’s kitchen in Austria, and more.The two BIG events Chef Nick participated in on opening day of The Drake on Fri, Sept. 13, 2019. When COVID shut down the world (and The Drake) six months after their opening, Nick shares the card-playing moments of discussion and decisions between the owners.Why did Chefs Paul and Nick choose to participate in a restaurant in Laguna Beach? And what are Chef Nick’s favorite restaurants in Laguna Beach?The difference in atmosphere between Drake’s bar area and Drake’s dining area.More on the “Concert Series” the Drake offers in late January and, then, again after Valentine’s Day through March. Chef Nick shares the meal he’s going to fix on Christmas Day - a super special day when son and dad get to sit down together (but only after they cook everything first).Do people actually do “dry January” and “losing weight in January” plans? Does this interfere in business?Per Chef Nick, the #1 way to quickly bond with your clientele.How this chef measures the “energy in the air” in his restaurant.How The Drake exemplifies the dining experience with two seatings (that most diners don’t even recognize is happening). And how those two seatings work in favor for people who want to be in the prime seats at the bar!Chef Nick talks about his favorite items on the Drake menu right now, his Dad’s favorite on the menu, and we talk about why and when menu item changes happen in a restaurant.The Drake’s unique, customizable (and additional to the main menu) “Tasting Menu,” option year-round at the Chef’s Counter.Nick explains “The Drake Gives,” a bi-annual give-back program to music programs for under-privileged children.Nick’s final thoughts on what a Michelin star would mean.

On Dec. 9th, Ruben Flores and I jumped back into my Monday “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show at KXFM 104.7, Laguna’s only community radio. We had A LOT to talk about!SHOW NOTESOur Laguna’s “Hospitality Night” review, including the Pepper tree lighting, our opinion on this year’s downtown holiday lighting and our opinion on what Dana Point is doing in comparison, especially at Dana’s Harbor (Festival of Lights). We also talk about 6 restaurants and 2 great retail stores (Nuance and Tuvalu) that our small group dropped in on during the super-packed evening downtown. Next, my update on ALL the incoming Laguna restaurants I’ve announced since late September. Remember, folks, to follow my Instagram and Facebook @bestoflagunabeach to get my breaking news stories on new restaurants joining us here in Laguna - these are verified facts, not just rumors!My September new restaurant announcements - OTO Sushi, Truly Pizza and RAW Bar’s three mini-restaurant concepts planned for SoLag.My late October new restaurant announcement - Piatti Italian coming to 222 Ocean Avenue, which was most recently Suenos. We wax euphoric about missing Chef Craig Strong, who was also in this location (in addition to 4 other concepts he blessed us with before moving to Newport Beach). Ruben also asks me what I think has kept proving “challenging” to restaurant concepts thriving in this specific location. And we talk again about creating a more inviting environment on Ocean Avenue all around.My November new restaurant announcement + yet another update - OTO Sushi’s opening happened in November, Chef Chris Tzorin’s return to Laguna with Taste Collective, in the former Taco Loco. November also included more updates from me on Pinafini (and we’re hoping he’ll be open before Christmas Day). We also talk about what I know about the Penguin Cafe shift of ownership.I talk about another “mystery” restaurant possibility and why that space failed for previous restaurant concepts. I put on my Restaurant Consultant hat and talk about what could make any concept really work in this location.Ruben and I review his last astounding Garden Walk two weeks ago - truly amazing houses and gardens we had access to. And, of course, we started the entire day’s event with a Muzeo Treats tasting of their fantastic chocolates and wafers - they just opened by the Orange Inn … and we all landed at the Walk’s end at GG’s Bistro for lunch and their famous sangrias. So yum.The LAST Garden Walk of 2024 happens this Saturday, Dec. 14th at 10 a.m. Meet at Laguna Nursery, 481 N. Coast Highway to find out what surprise Ruben has in store for us on this particular tour.THEN, don’t miss the South Laguna Community Garden Holiday Sing Along on the same day, 2 pm to 4 pm. Free to everyone; please bring a dish to share.Then, we moved into ALL the upcoming holiday events I’ve been gathering from all points and groups - I mention everything I’ve gathered in a quick review. Grab the latest blog update: Holiday Events in Laguna & SurroundingRuben talks about the miserable loss of a giant, giant Stone Pine tree at our Woods Cove Nita Carman park and empty tree wells that he’d love to see filled. He offers suggestions on how we - as a town - can continue to support our “Tree City.”We close with a reminder that we’re in the 60 busiest days for restaurants right now … Show some patience and kindness with all the workers there.Join me next Monday for a live interview with Chef Nick Gstrein from The Drake Laguna Beach!Join me LIVE on Mondays, 2 pm PDT/5 pm EDT at KXFM 104.7 Radio for new restaurant news and reviews, the best Laguna events, and plenty of rockin’ interviews with Laguna Beach chefs, restaurateurs and downright interesting people.If you’re not nearby to twirl that radio dial … meaning anywhere in the world outside of Laguna Beach proper, download the free KXFM Radio app from Google Play or the App Store, OR just go online to stream 24/7 at the KXFM website: KXFMRadio.org

This week, the most prolific and successful Restaurant Developer in the country, Bruce Russo, steps in for another fun convo with me on my Monday radio show at Laguna’s only community radio, KXFM Radio 104.7This time, we’re talking about Private Dining and Group Dining in restaurants, particularly around the holiday season. (And how NOT to let your big group dining events impinge on your beloved patrons who just want to be fed in a timely manner.)Typically, the last 60 days of the year are the most profitable AND the most difficult for restaurants everywhere. We talk about expediting, kitchen set ups, staff training and more. We also discuss the best month of the year to open a restaurant vs. the worst month of the year and why.SHOW NOTES & SUMMARYRevenue Pod #2We revisit Bruce’s “revenue pods” concepts for restaurants - he recommends a minimum of four revenue pods in any restaurant, with as many as 10 in any given restaurant. We jump into discussing private dining rooms (PDRs) and Group Dining as the next revenue pod.Group Dining in Seasonal Swing Towns Like LagunaWe start initially by talking about the trending decline in private dining rooms because of this one particular and universal fact.We then compare this “fact” to towns like Laguna that experience such a swing in seasonal traffic because I encourage group dining to bolster their revenues in leaner months. Bruce agrees with the marketing model, and we then talk about how Bruce has begun to design and place PDRs (private dining rooms) in the overall restaurant design to accommodate seasonal traffic.Is Group Dining Worth It?We discuss revenue in typical group dining scenarios vs. regular patron traffic and the extreme competitiveness between restaurants that brings the group dining revenue down.Where To Put All the People?If no PDR is in place, where does Bruce recommend you place your large group dining tables? How to minimize the crossing of paths between the “ins” and “outs” of a kitchen.Solutions For the Biggest Suffering During Group Dining EventsHow do you keep your regular patron from suffering during your group dining events? Bruce talks about “mini-kitchens” inside a kitchen for faster, more efficient expo and the group-efficient equipment Bruce always recommends.Controlled Phase DiningHe then talks about flipping prep lines to cook lines and we move into the practice of “controlled phase dining,” which brings Drake Laguna Beach into the conversation.The Drake’s open “Chef’s Bar” leads to Bruce mentioning a design he’s working on for a 40-seater fully open chef kitchens and where the “regular kitchen” is placed in this type of scenario. This trend is growing, largely because the public is fascinated with the machinations of great cooking, and the chefs want to have more interaction with their patrons.The 12 Days of ChristmasI talk to the end-of-year holiday season and the fact that a late Thanksgiving provides a smaller window - a “12 days of Christmas” scenario for your greatest group dining impact. Bruce also notes that the vast majority of revenue for restaurants is made in the last 60 days of the year.I mention that, in a tourist-oriented town like Laguna Beach, we have another “heyday” window between June 15th and July 30th, but the “tourist season” has been significantly impacted in recent years with school districts starting the new school year at earlier dates in August. So, it makes booking those 12 Days of Christmas that much more important … and then looking to rollover group events who couldn’t make it in that timeframe to the New Year, typically after Jan. 9th.What’s the Best Month to Open a Restaurant?Bruce mentions “The Magic Month” to open a restaurant anywhere, with mention of the second best month to open a restaurant in the year. I agree, even for Laguna standards, and we talk about the challenges of opening IN a tourist season, too.#1 Reason Why Restaurants Lose Immediately After OpeningBruce talks to training 30 days in advance of opening and what corporate concepts will often invest to ensure the highest and more effective training is done before the doors initially open. So, who are your two most important players in your front-facing staff when those doors DO open?The Difference Between Pre-Shift Meetings and Tastings vs. a Server who Hasn’t Tasted Most of the Menu’s Offerings.My probably #1 test question I’ll ask a server about the menu, which gives me all kinds of immediate information about that restaurant’s training program.“You invest in the real estate to build the restaurant. You invest in the equipment to prepare the food. You invest in the furniture and fixtures to make the place comfortable. The biggest investment you need to make, though … is training your staff.” - Bruce RussoThe Worst Month to Open a RestaurantThe worst month to open a restaurant and all the reasons why.Why The 60 Toughest Days Are Your Highest Leverage Days All Year LongAs we close this session, Bruce reminds restaurant owners that, although the holidays are the toughest 60 days of the year, keep in mind that it’s not about the meal they’re eating today as much as what you’re doing to bring them back again. While the holiday season will stretch your back-of-house and front-of-house to its maximum, remember - the majority of guests you have in your restaurant are there for the very first time because they’re on someone else’s dime.“You’re not just expanding your customer base geometrically … you’re expanding it exponentially. This is what you want to keep in mind.” - Diane A.

Welcome to my Thanksgiving holiday special for you! On Monday (11/25) at KXFM Radio 104.7, I interviewed Celebrity Chef Mary Schoenlein, renowned Founder of Mary’s Marvelous, a 2002-2021 can’t-live-without-it breakfast and lunch spot in the posh Hamptons of New York.Mary has recently resurrected Mary’s Marvelous at her brand new Substack blog. Readers all over the world are, once again, flocking to see what this Celebrity Chef has to say about life lessons around cookin’ and food, and many of her most well-loved recipes.SHOW SUMMARY & NOTESWe talk about how Mary and her native-Manhattan-raised husband searched all over the country to put down stakes of their own … and ended up in the Hamptons.Mary talks about what got her started in cooking and her initial apprenticing journey, which included her abrupt ask to work for a well-known chef and catering to famous musicians at their concerts (don’t miss her funny story about Diana Ross).Mary quickly shares her ascent in the cooking world, from Upper New York to a sudden Manhattan move, then a 2-star Michelin restaurant apprenticeship in Versailles, France, before landing in The Hamptons for Dean and DeLuca’s famed Red Horse Market.The ONE food item invention of Mary’s that led to a distributed product line and the decision to open an entire restaurant.Mary talks about her most addictive food items … including the infamous Mary’s Marvelous Blueberry Muffin and the numbers they would sell daily in a summer weekend.How Mary and Celebrity Chef Ina Garten (The Barefoot Contessa) became friends and cooked with each other, and what Ina would typically purchase at Mary’s Marvelous.What Mary and her husband, Pat, experienced on the day they closed Mary’s Marvelous.Mary talks about her massive plan for her brand new Substack blog …We further talk about Mary’s Butternut Squash and Asian Pear recipe and her best-selling Sour Cream Coffee Cake recipe she’s providing to all of my listeners and readers here:We finish with Mary’s “second life” in Manhattan … the wonderful mother-in-law, Barb, that she misses (and the amazing thing Barb actually did for a living in Manhattan) … and a hysterical story about a recent Monday gone wrong with her three dogs in Central Park.Anyone can subscribe for free to marysmarvelous.substack.com. People who opt in for her paid subscription ($70 for a year), receive an automatic bonus, her “Grateful For You” Holiday Bundle of renowned recipes … including her Pumpkin Pie AND the Pumpkin Pie Crust recipes.

In this podcast, I introduce my TOP TWO favorite holiday events and one of my favorite artists (and humans) at the Winter Fantasy Sawdust Festival – my in-studio guest, Baruch Kaufman.The Winter Fantasy - my #1 favorite event in Laguna Beach all year long – begins this Friday, Nov. 22nd, and we’re here to talk all about its extreme uniqueness. Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust is every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Nov. 22nd through Dec. 22nd 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.  935 Laguna Canyon Road. Pay and park on the street or at nearby city lots. Tickets are available online and at the ticket offices onsite: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors over $65, $5 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids under the age of 5. Locals are free on Fridays!Show Notes: We talk Baruch’s family custom jewelry business at the top of Legion Avenue since 1996, and Baruch’s first entry into the Winter Fantasy in 2011.  Baruch explains the extended weekend Winter Fantasy season, from Nov. 22nd through Dec. 22nd, 10 am - 7 pm every Friday,Saturday and Sunday. Baruch offers multiple great pointers as to why this is such a “holiday Christmas magic vibe” including 180 unique artists, “biodegradable snow from the sky,” roving carolers and three live music stages every weekend day.  I chime in with the differences between the Summer Sawdust Festival vs. the Winter Fantasy show and the focus on gifts. (Baruch actually created several individualized gifts for my own clients while I was standing there at the Winter Sawdust.)  Baruch explains his upbringing in Seattle - one of 7 kids who participated in the family’s longtime jewelry business, and their eventual move to Laguna Beach. We talk about the gift Baruch brought me before our radio show, a “Laguna Wave” patented ring his Dad engineered. (It’s only sold at the Gem Mountains Studio at the Legion location). We then talk about Baruch’s own designs based on calligraphy and treble clefs with wire designs that showcase the hand-chosen gems.  I mention the ability to talk with the artists at more length during the Winter Fantasy, and how I can ask Baruch anything about any gem … he knows the backstory on every one he displays. This leads to a most interesting explanation of how Baruch personally shops for and hand chooses the gems he selects.  Baruch explains the increased variety of artists at the winter show. Turns out the Summer Festival is consistently always Laguna Beach Artists, but Winter Fantasy allows for about 50 Orange County artists. More variety! I then provide a litany of gift ideas that I always purchase for my own friends and clients.  I mention the winter menu shifts that happen, too, in the restaurants on the Sawdust grounds. And on that note – I’m ordering a few dishes for Thanksgiving dinner, so I’ll remind you again, too! While uber-popular Chef Evan of Evan’s Gourmet is back in play for the Winter Sawdust Festival, she’s also offering Thanksgiving dinner to go - the full dinner or a la carte pick-and-choose for pickup at her restaurant (Evan’s Gourmet, 860 Glenneyre Street) the day before Thanksgiving. Order online at EvansGourmet.com)  Baruch and I talk about the fabled “Lottery Pick Day” when Sawdust artists actually choose their booth locations. Baruch explains that, in the last lottery, he had 12 years of tickets “in the hopper” and waited until his first ticket came up at “Position #165” out of 180 artists. Baruch offers his perspective of the Sawdust grounds’ transformation from an empty, dirt Eucalyptus grove to a rabble of constructed (and approved fire department) customized, quirky, artsy booths.  To add to the engaging “holiday village feel,” several Laguna Beach non-profit groups decorate their own holiday themed trees for the Winter Fantasy.  The community tree lighting ceremony is this Saturday at 5:00 p.m. for the “auld lang syne” moment. Very uniquely Laguna Beach in our artists’ community.  Then, I mention my 2nd most favorite holiday event in Laguna Beach - Ruben Flores’ Annual Holiday Decor and Wreath Making Workshop. This Friday, Nov. 22nd, 3:00 p.m.This workshop is an absolute hoot with Ruben Flores at the helm in the back lot workshop of Laguna Nursery. It’s this Friday, Nov. 22nd. It starts at 3:00 p.m. at 481 N. Coast Highway at Myrtle and North Coast Highway. Call (949) 494-5200 to let Ruben know you’re coming on Friday. It’s just $30 a person. (Bring your pruners, he says.)  Then … back to my in-studio guest, Baruch We dive back into Baruch’s personal life as a world traveler. He talks about “the magic and cultures of the world” as he shares this year’s early autumn travels into Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, etc. along with Michelin restaurant dining and the most amazing art installation he’s ever seen, “teamLab Borderless.” After a brief return to Laguna Beach, he then popped over to Dubai, then over to India’s Uttar Pradesh (where he’s working with potential hoteliers). He tells the tale of participating in an Aarti fire ceremony, hanging out beachside at Goa, visiting sites in Delhi, a wedding in the Himalayans and fireworks in Chandigarh. He talks about the extreme economic highs and lows in India and how, after three weeks there, he’s really enjoyed American burgers since his return.  And speaking of food … Baruch reveals his favorite restaurants in Laguna Beach based on his mood … and he has A LOT of favorite restaurants. (Is your favorite on his list?)We wrap with a reminder to visit the Winter Fantasy Festival. Stop by Baruch’s booth - #206 – closest to the concessions and saloon on the far east (inland) and front side of the grounds.  (And don’t miss our lovely Suzi White returning with her one-of-a-kind knitted Santa hats and phenomenal soft knitted berets and scarves - such amazing gifts. I'm making a beeline for her booth this weekend as those Santa hats sell like hotcakes. Subscribe for free to read more about our restaurants, chefs, artists and unique vortex town stuff of Laguna Beach at my Substack blog, BestofLagunaBeach.com 

If you saw my 5-minute video in yesterday’s "Best of Laguna Beach" post about my crazy radio show this past Monday, you know it was NOT the standard fare I usually offer. I pulled Ruben Flores in to help me contact friends and raise money for our nonprofit radio station’s KXFM’s annual “Community Takeover” fundraiser. But we had such an inundation of calls, it looked and felt a lot like Lucy and Ethel in that famous "I Love Lucy" episode of their frantic efforts in the chocolate factory. Despite the chaos, it was a funny, heartwarming hour with many lovely voices popping in to support.And here are the Show notes/summary of Monday’s show: The show starts hot and heavy with three phone lines ringing in, the first of which is a major contributor and longtime board member to the South Laguna Community Garden, Sally Coffee.Ruben, Nelson and I were invited to Sunday night’s “OTO Sushi Friends & Family” trial run. I’m able to briefly mention this as calls keep popping in and Ruben spills the beans on what he promised the new OTO Sushi management. We chat briefly about OTO Sushi’s new look and feel, and I mention Bruce Russo’s take on acoustic tiles.Ruben explains his attendance at the Academy-only audience invited to see the new “Wicked” movie. We talk Ruben and Nelson’s opinion about the “extravaganza.”We talk OTO Sushi’s “Friends and Family” event with all the food we ordered and the cool cocktails we tried. Ruben continues with his opinion on the service as I scramble to answer phones.Ali North, Surf and Sand’s Lead Concierge calls in, so we chat a bit about the great progress at the Surf and Sand Resort.Ruben talks about the fun Garden Walk he hosts every other Saturday from his Laguna Nursery and what he considers the greatest element of these unique walks. As I madly answer calls in the background with pinch hitter station chief Jonathan, Ruben talks about the poor, giant Italian Stone Pine tree at Anita Carmen Park that’s currently dying that CAN be saved. Stone Pines typically live for 300 years and are extremely resilient, but this one is in big trouble. Ruben has ideas for its salvage … but it has to happen FAST.Chef Antonio Rua joins us to chat about Tango, their happy hour and his favorite menu item.We chat about Chef Evan at Evan’s Gourmet who’s prepping for the Sawdust Winter Fantasy, multiple catering and group dining events AND her restaurant busy-ness.We get Chef Nick from The Drake BACK! He talks about “the transitional season” and how that works so beautifully for locals. I mention my favorite cocktail that Nick busts into song about, and we talk about his work with his very experienced “Euro, old school” Dad and the great combo they’ve created as a result.Ruben and I talk about our love for KXFM Radio and why it’s such a special element for our special town.Then, Chef Evan Lewis from Evan’s Gourmet (Thalia and Glenn Eyre) pops back in and we talk about the Sawdust Winter Festival beginning on Nov. 22nd (she has a restaurant there) and the Community Garden decorating one of the holiday trees there. We talk further about her group dining options, especially for families and businesses up to about 30. She’s also offering an a la carte Thanksgiving feast. Get your entire feast or purchase any a la carte items you please, including pumpkin pie pre-orders.We return to the beleaguered Italian Stone Pine tree issue - seriously, this tree has an 80-foot canopy; it is majestic – at Anita Carmen Park, and the ONLY white Jacaradana tree we have in all of Laguna Beach in the same park.Ruben explains how his Garden Walk begins with mimosas … a report on what’s happening in Laguna Beach … what’s happening in Hollywood (our special connection) … what do do with your garden NOW, based on seasonality … and, then, we go for a WALK.Bruce Russo, the country’s most successfully prolific restaurant developer, calls in and we talk about our last radio show episode together, “The 3-Second Scan,” and why the restaurant needs to “date” the clientele.And then … I accidentally lose Bruce. OK. So moving on … (so, so sorry Bruce!)Napa Valley calls in from the great Auberge Resort with (also the great) Andrew Bennett. He talks about the multifaceted “layers” of Laguna Beach and how the same applies to Napa Valley. It’s a fabulous viewpoint from Andrew until … we accidentally lose him, too.Nelson Coates calls in from filming of “The Morning Show” in Hollywood to express his support for this show (awww).One of my dearest buddies calls in (Lisa), friends to both Ruben and me. We make group plans for dining as she donates.We talk about my upcoming interviews on “Best of Laguna Beach” - Chef Erik from Oliver’s Osteria, Chef Nick from The Drake and a surprise nationally revered chef guest from The Hamptons of Long Island, NY, will also be blessing our “Best of Laguna” show.As I answer more calls, Ruben talks about going to dinners with me and the “two edged sword” that entails.Our farthest reaching caller calls in from outside of Toronto, Ontario - Louise who tells us she participates in “armchair travel” by following the show. Awww.Ruben holds court while I deal with more callers. He talks about our upcoming renowned events including our Winter Fantasy Festival at Sawdust (starting Nov. 22nd), Hospitality “Street Party” night (Dec. 6th), and his favorite holiday. He also suggests locals get out now in this seasonal flux to support our local restaurants.Billy Fried, “The guy who resurrected KXFM 104.7 Radio,” drops in to share his thoughts on the passionate foundation of every restaurant in our city. We close the day’s lively show with talk of Anthony Bourdain.

This week at my “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show at KXFM 104.7, Bruce Russo returned to chat with me about another host of restaurant topics, from the new incoming restaurant group to “his” former restaurant in Laguna Beach … to restaurant training that goes MIA … to what Bruce creates in restaurants to woo diners … to a single woman’s take on sitting in restaurant bars.Show Notes:30 We talk about the difficulties and wins Bruce had in developing the 222 Ocean Avenue restaurant “Taverna” in Laguna Beach.11:50 I announce the newcomer restaurant group to 222 Ocean Avenue and what Bruce would change for this new restaurant concept (if given a magic wand).17:03 The location of your bar can change your revenue significantly.18:14 The 3-second scan every patron does when he or she enters a restaurant.18:52 The 3-second scan from a single woman’s point of view (me) and the faux pas I endured at one of my favorite restaurants last weekend.22:22 Easy fixes in training and physical, foundational elements to help your patrons feel like the Golden Egg Gift that they are to you.24:33 The most important job in the front-facing part of a restaurant.28:40 Bruce’s story on Maestro’s restaurant in Phoenix … 17 years ago.30:43 Our combined advice on “Opening Day” and the immediate weeks that follow – including soft opens, menu options and more - for both restaurant owners and the patrons who visit in those precarious first weeks.35:30 Who Bruce primarily designs his restaurants for and why.37:30 The most important room in your restaurant and why.44:04 The worst of restaurant solutions … and Bruce’s solutions in the exact, opposite direction.47:17 The introduction of Bruce’s “4 kitchens in one” concept that he’s inserting in more and more of his designs AND a teaser into the 18-concept strategic Food Hall he designed and created for immediate revenue success.To contact B. Russo Designs for restaurant concept and development: https://BRussoDesigns.comTo contact Diane Armitage for restaurant consulting, including "Secret Shopping," restaurant reviews and refined branding and public perception: https://Armitageinc.com or schedule: https://ChatWithDiane.com

This past Monday, Oct. 28th, Laguna Beach native Chef Evan Lewis of the new restaurant, Evan’s Gourmet, joined me at the radio station, KFM 104.7. For nearly an hour, we talked everything from …●   Evan’s native roots in Laguna Beach and the roots of her recipes in her fabulous restaurant ●   Her ongoing, creative tenure at the infamous Sawdust Festival (she makes HOW many burgers each day??)●   Evan’s new Thanksgiving specials for you and yours ●   Her group dining and catering options for the holidays and beyond, andthe mot creative recipes she creates for her lucky patronsSHOW NOTES: :55 Chef Evan’s roots in Laguna Beach, including her cookin’ beginnings as a 7-year-old and her first cooking job at this famed Laguna restaurant. 6:20 The first important lesson the yet-to-be-chef learned from restaurateurs Mike & Toni Leech of Café Zoolu.7:15 We review Chef Evan’s menus at Evan’s Gourmet and jump into her most recent mushroom soup, a recipe she created in honor of the Tanterra Winery. 9:30 Evan’s 30 years in “complete custom catering,” including multiple events yearly of more than 200 people. (And her biggest panic moments in catering.) 16:41 The difference in crowds and Evans’ menus between the upcoming Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust grounds vs. the summer crowds at Sawdust.18:24 Evan’s biggest selling menu item at the Sawdust and the 3 major adjustments Chef Evan had to make to quicken her Sawdust ticket times.23:00 We discuss the intricacies of crispy fried chicken (and why it usually fails)26:38 The Thanksgiving holiday specialty I talked Chef Evan into doing because Chef Ron Reno retired and we NEED this. 29:03 Oddly, how my Pumpkin Pie request became Chef Evan’s NEW, ENTIRE Thanksgiving Dinner offering. 37:28 How Evan’s Gourmet was a “morph” of Evan’s decades-long journey in cooking, and why Evan made the decision to begin her restaurant business.40:10 How Chef Evan decided on her restaurant’s menu items and the “gimmick” she decided on for an-always memorable taste.41:30 Chef Evan tells us what her favorite restaurants were in Laguna as she was growing up.42:40 A wrap up on everything Chef Evan is doing in the next 60 days, including her 25-quart soup pan for her turkey chili and her upgraded vertical smoker for her smoked tomatoes. 50:01 Chef tells us where her favorite restaurant is in town (when she’s not cooking at hers).

Mon, Sept. 23rd’s Best of Laguna show at KXFM 104.7 radio with my special guest, “Beautification Consultant” Ruben Flores:3:39 Ruben Flores recalls his first visit to Laguna Beach at the age of 5. (You wouldn’t believe where his family parked for their beach visit)6:33 The eclectic property in Laguna Beach that Ruben chose for his own home7:47 One of the Best of Laguna Beach Walking Tours ever … still rolling this winter12:29 When Laguna Sushi is closing. Get in there, please, to thank Chef Jay Sada (and the funniest story Chef ever shared with me)14:44 Ruben’s favorite taco in town as we discuss the Best of Laguna “#1 Taco” survey in honor of National Taco Day on Oct. 1st.22:35 We talk about easy, inexpensive upgrades for our Laguna Beach “Bourbon Street,” Ocean Avenue. We also discuss the “beautification ordinance” the City recently passed to provide subsidy to Laguna Beach storefront owners.27:28 The “Little Freebirds” awesome kids’ clothing store I love on Ocean Avenue, Chef Leo Bongarra’s move to 237 Ocean Avenue to brighten that space, and Wild Taco’s commitment to staying in Laguna Beach on the corner of Ocean Ave.36:20 Our combined take on the new restaurant, Evan’s Gourmet, and Chef Evan Lewis’ stint in this town since childhood. We discuss Evan’s serendipitous movement into restaurant ownership, her 22-year catering world that still continues, and her menu items we loved most when Ruben, Nelson Coates and I chose Evan’s for dinner last weekend.44:56 Evan’s is changing up her reservation system, and this is why. Plus - Evan’s Happy Hour specials and Laguna Beach resident DISCOUNTS (quite lovely).

This Monday, Oct. 21st, my dear buddy Ruben Flores, joined me at my “Best of Laguna Beach” radio show on KXFM 104.7 Radio for lively, fun discussion that covers everything from places we think are haunted to updates on our favorite eats in Laguna and favorite sets around the world, thanks to Nelson Coates.Moments in the show:1:00 Introducing Ruben Flores “Laguna’s Beautification Consultant” and his versions of Laguna Nursery here in Laguna Beach.3:30 We talk a few minutes about Nelson Coates behind his back (Ruben’s partner and the Production Designer of “The Morning Show” on Apple TV).5:10 Why Nelson’s title is so misleading, and how Ruben defines Nelson’s role as a “Production Designer.”6:40 Nelson’s greatest forté and how that showed itself in two sets of bricks Nelson decided on for a “hotel” facade in “The Morning Show.”8:55 Different movie and streaming creations by Nelson that Ruben has visited all over the world. We also discuss Nelson’s emotional detachment as all of his sets are swept away after filming.13:25 Ruben talks about his favorite sets from Nelson’s world and how Nelson helps make actors feel more at home on their sets during filming.16:10 Can you name the style of your home in three words? We talk to Ruben’s bi-monthly Garden Walks (next one is Nov. 2nd at 10 am, Laguna Nursery, 481 N. Coast Highway).18:00 Why Ruben continues to haul in GIANT pumpkins for his Nursery’s frontage during Halloween/autumn’s season. And the haunted paintings inside the Nursery.21:45 A rundown of Halloween events in Laguna Beach. Then we wander into haunted places in town and mention the places we think are the most haunted place in town. Ruben also talks about the “Storybook Architecture” homes in North Laguna (usually referred to as witches’ houses)25:40 The horrific, heartbreaking demise of our National Historic Registered Villa Rockledge. Ruben shares an amazing historical story that connects Riverside’s Mission Inn to Villa Rockledge here.28:15 We return to Halloween events in Laguna and talk about the long-running, extensive “trick or treat street” FIERCE competition between Oak Street and Brooks Street. I also mention the Halloween parties/costume contests at Mozambique and Skyloft.31:00 We discuss our recent dinner at Chef Erik’s Oliver’s Osteria in the Canyon (next to Sawdust), and why it FEELS good. Oliver’s, a Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, was a third-generation restaurant in the space and was initially quite tiny until post-COVID came along and provided the giant outdoor tenting for additional dining. Although I’m often there for brunch on the weekends, this was one of our first times back for dinner. (Stay tuned for that larger article here at Best of Laguna Beach.)36:55 An Oto Sushi and Pinafini update on their coming-soon dates. We also discuss that second floor level at the Oto Sushi location; it has always been in play since Sorrento Grill was first established by Restaurateur David Wilhelm. We discuss the possibility of putting a different theme in place in that upper level, and skip over to Bodega’s unique multiple dining “themes” and my favorite restaurant as a kid, Casa Bonita in Denver (Go South Park for making Casa Bonita famous!)41:15 We discuss the ingenuity of Ivan Spiers (owner of Bodega and Skyloft in downtown, in addition to Rumari’s and Mozambique) and my quick margarita and wings at Skyloft on Saturday.42:10 The loss of Wild Taco at the corner of Coast Highway and Ocean. We discuss our own brilliant opinions about what should go in that space next.45:45 We discuss the sorry state of lower Ocean Avenue, the storybook “step sister” to the one street over, Forest Avenue’s continually marketed “Promenade.” Ruben talks about showing love to Ocean Avenue, where trees aren’t being watered, and where pumpkin displays and large containers of flowers do not exist.We then move into clean up and “love” that could occur on “Restaurant Row” and the singular Peppertree Lane whose charm could be duplicated elsewhere in town. We close with more suggestions on what to do to attract more polish, life and beauty into our town.54:00 Next week: Chef Evan of Evan’s Gourmet will be discussing her holiday season plans for YOU at “The Best of Laguna Beach radio show on KXFM 104.7!

Overview: This Monday, Oct 14th on my Best of Laguna Beach™ show at KXFM 104.7, I introduced one of the most prolifically successful restaurant designers in the United States. Bruce and I first met in 2015 when his Dallas-based restaurateur client asked him to oversee the Laguna development of what would become “Taverna” at 222 Ocean Avenue. I was on the prowl, covering all the restaurant happenings in Laguna Beach. We’ve been fast friends ever since.I consider Bruce Russo the most consequential, definitive restaurant developer and designer in the U.S. Having developed nearly 600 restaurant concepts and operated multiple concepts of his own creation, Bruce has a sweeping mastery of what it takes to create a successful, thriving restaurant from the ground up. Since I’m the one who is more commonly called in to help fix or tout restaurants in a more strategic way, we figured we’d have some interesting points to offer restaurateurs as well as some surprising insights for patrons who love dining out. Bruce will be joining me every 3-4 weeks on my Monday radio/podcast show.Key Moments in the Interview1:55 Bruce’s 22-year connection to Laguna Beach and the “highly historical” retail building he turned into a restaurant here.3:53 What got Bruce into restaurant design in the first place. (It started with a hamburger joint that he helped construct as a teenager.)5:57 What was decided for Bruce when he was in the womb.6:58 Bruce’s total restaurant concepts all over the U.S. and here in California (and 14 on deck through 2026!).8:38 The biggest challenges with Bruce’s buildout of the Laguna restaurant (first “Taverna”) and the demands for the historical architectural refurbishment of the apartment up above.12:35 The reason why Bruce completes restaurant builds so quickly, and why hospitals and restaurants are surprisingly similar in nature.14:58 Why restaurant development is ALL about the Opening Day15:56 The primary restaurant concepts:Fast Casual ($10-20 check average, like Papa’s Tacos or Lost Pier Café) …Chef-Driven Fast Casual ($25-$40 check average, like Finney’s or Coyote Grill),Fine Dining ($85+ check average like Oliver’s Osteria with “traditional” wait staff), Upscale Fine Dining ($150+ check average like The Drake Laguna Beach),Upscale Prix Fixe Dining ($200-$350 check average, like Rebel Omakase)19:05 Why “Fast Casual” is on the rise nationally.22:00 Why staffing of restaurants is so difficult in a town like Laguna Beach.22:41 The concepts Bruce prefers to build and why 3,500-square-feet is a benchmark for restaurant operation and the “profit void” that occurs.24:18 Why the loyalty of the local Laguna Beach people is paramount in order to survive as a restaurant in Laguna Beach.24:47 How a larger restaurant in Laguna Beach can more efficiently create multiple concepts in the same space. (And how NOT to end up “in the weeds” when private dining (PDR) happens with 50 tickets at once, OR how to create kitchens and menus that can accommodate multiple concepts, including places like The Rooftop).27:28 Bruce talks about the two gigantic pickleball facility concepts he’s designed, using the example of 3 bars and 2 kitchens to accommodate an additional 150-person restaurant at the top. He explains how the two kitchens differ for greatest efficiency, even when dealing with those occasions when a 2,500-person tournament occurs.29:34 Bruce' explains the strategy behind 2 cook lines and 2 prep/expo lines in the same kitchen (when you can’t shoehorn a second kitchen into your existing space).31:17 Understanding the battles, challenges, needs and pitfalls of restaurants, which are actually “manufacturing plants.”32:43 How you design a kitchen for slow days and busy days, and when kitchen staff works in a 4-foot x 8-foot square vs. a 4-foot x 4-foot square.“Most restaurants are not designed to make money.” - Bruce Russo35:20 The biggest reasons why restaurants don’t make money in the kitchen, and why large kitchen demands are different than small kitchen demands.38:02 The biggest mistake Bruce made in a restaurant’s development.40:26 How you store and display your wine bottles for two different audiences in your restaurant.43:08 As a restaurant owner in Laguna Beach, here’s your highest priority.46:10 Why restaurant owners choose Bruce and his team over others.50:08 Bruce tells the story of famed Restaurateur Norm Brinker who, on his opening day, asked Bruce to wait 90 days to pay Bruce for his development work … and Bruce agreed. Here’s what happened from there.53:29 Why it’s so important for patrons to understand just how complex a restaurant operation really is, and what to do on the first days when a restaurant is newly opened.ShareShow NotesBruce Russo will join me again next month at KXFM 104.7, Laguna’s only community radio. You can stream in from anywhere in the world (see details below). Contact Bruce Russo for restaurant development and consulting:B. Russo DesignsContact me (Diane Armitage) for restaurant concept consulting and strategic marketing:Armitage, Inc.

On Monday, Oct. 7th, it was another lively interview in my “Best of Laguna Beach” show at KXFM 104.7, Laguna’s Community Radio station.This week, my guest was local favorite, the immensely talented Chef Maro Molteni, who initially began Maro Wood Grill … then moved to Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill. He then stepped in as pinch hitter with Chef Leo Bongarra for the 2023 summer season at the Festival of Arts’ Terra (along with concessions, seven 7 seven, the [seven-degrees] event center, Hotel Laguna’s Larsen, and even the restaurant at Laguna Art A Fair … long story that you’ll hear about here).This past summer, Chef Maro stepped in again to handle Terra through the Festival season, but NOW he’s working on his own project. And it’s not in Laguna Beach. (sob).Here’s how Chef Maro’s story unfolds:3:00 Maro’s recent birthday, his Argentinian origins and what he really planned for his life (that was not about cooking).6:00 Maro’s first (disastrous) forays in the cooking world but why he chose to continue.9:00 When wood grilling, here are his preferences of wood for various proteins.13:00 How his schooling internships led to Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Manhattan and the deciding factor that got Maro to permanently move to the States.15:15 What brought Maro to Orange County and why he and his growing family specifically chose Laguna Beach in 2008.19:40 How Chef Maro discovered the original building that became the famed Maro Wood Grill in Dec. 2010 (and the weird way they opened).23:35 Why I, the designated restaurant reviewer, never reviewed Maro Wood Grill.24:15 The biggest mistake Maro made when he sold the restaurant in 2017.25:50 How Chef Maro landed on his next restaurant, Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill, why he chose it, and the initial issues he dealt with in establishing his “Argentinian way” in RH. We further discuss the COVID shutdown, how I managed to work out my “Annual Gratitude Party” virtually with Chef Maro’s help, and the best idea he came up with to continue bringing in income.37:40 Chef Maro is opening up shop in … Laguna Niguel. But before we discuss THAT terrible news, we quickly review more of the great “chefery” Chef Maro has provided since leaving Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill. This includes a super fast prep with Chef Leo Bongarra for the onslaught of the Festival Summer Season in 202343:15 Chef Maro explains the grand plan for his new restaurant, Tierra de Fuegos, including why he chose Laguna Niguel instead of Laguna Beach. (And the restaurant he tried to check on in Laguna Beach that he didn’t get a response on.)47:05 We talk “ideal square footage” of restaurants in Laguna Beach vs. the more ideal square footage Chef Maro wants for Tierra de Fuegos in Laguna Niguel.49:20 Chef Maro shares his timeline for planned opening of Tierra de Fuegos, and explains his “all-wood cooking” plan that includes his grills, a pizza oven and rotisserie. He also discusses lunch and dinner menus, coffee-and-pastry afternoon moments, “to go” family dinners, late night gatherings (that will likely attract fellow Argentinians he says) and a large table plan for … well, you’ll have to listen for this one.SHOW NOTESJoin me LIVE on Mondays, 2 pm PDT/5 pm EDT at KXFM 104.7 Radio for new restaurant news and reviews, the best Laguna events, and plenty of rockin’ interviews with Laguna Beach chefs, restaurateurs and downright interesting people. If you’re not nearby to twirl that radio dial … in fact, if you’re one of my subscribers hailing from one of those 32 countries, download the free KXFM Radio app from Google Play or the App Store … OR just go online to KXFMRadio.org

On Monday, Sept 30th on my KXFM 104.7 radio show, I chatted with two great guests - Coyote Grill's Co-Owner Desirée Gomez and Rasta Taco's / RastaRita Cantina / RastaRita Margarita Trucks Owner Mario Melendez.This was an enlightening, funny conversation as we covered a multitude of topics primarily around the best tacos, inventive margarita trucks and decades of time in Laguna Beach as local-favorite MExican restaurants. Here’s a quick rundown:START: I introduce Mario Melendez, 9-year Owner of Rasta Taco and Desirée Gomez, 35-year Owner of Coyote Grill, How they arrived in the restaurant business and why they chose Laguna Beach 4:08 The two discuss the pros and cons of catering and renovations(Mario refers to a catering event as “moving a small apartment to another location.) 16:19 Remembering Adolfo Vides, our 39-year Adolfo’s Mexican Restaurant Owner, who passed away last week … and why our restaurant owners rarely meet each other in this town.18:14 Dealing with incoming tourist traffic in our summers, plus the odd seasons we’ve experienced this year. 20:51 Mario Melendez explains how he came up with “The Flank Move” to survive as a restaurant owner when he was initially denied a liquor license in Laguna Beach. This is when Mario became that Bugsy Malone guy who envisioned Las Vegas in the middle of a barren desert. Now, Mario pulls in tens of thousands with multiple “RastaRita Trucks, Cantina food truck and actual Cantina catering and event center.32:29 How Mario’s “pen pal” relationship with Island Records Founder Chris Blackwell turned into a Rasta Taco restaurant opportunity in Jamaica.36:00 Coyote Grill’s Baja-Style Local Lobster Season starts this Thursday!Desireé educates us on the difference between “other” lobster and “Laguna’s spiny local lobster” and what happened when China discovered our own crustaceans. We discuss the moving stock market price of lobster and why specific “I WANT LOBSTER” reservations from all of you are encouraged.43:37 The Best Taco in Laguna Beach discussion beginsMy guests talk to their best-selling tacos as well as their own favorites in their own kitchens. 45:24 The #1 Taco of Laguna Beach SURVEY RESULTS!49:36 How Coyote and Rasta Taco are celebrating National Taco Day (Tues, Oct 1st) 50:36 The difference between our indy restaurants in Laguna Beach vs. franchise restaurants 52:00 KXFMRadio’s Exec Director Billy Fried steps into the show to ask about a New 3% tax proposal levied on the Laguna restaurants Billy asks - How much of their customer base is more local than visitor? He discusses a “statistic” that was presented to the City as “80% of the restaurant business being tourist traffic,” but probably not the case. Mario comes up with an inventive idea for handling the swarm of tourists descending upon us.55:45 Indy restaurants vs. national franchises allowed in Laguna Beach56:50 I announce next week’s guest - Chef Maro Molteni from former Maro Wood Grill, Royal Hawaiian and Terra fame. We’ll be talking about the new restaurant he’s developing … where??Show NotesRasta Taco is a tiny shop in downtown Laguna Beach at 170 Beach St, across from the Whole Foods Market. Go to RastaTaco.com for additional information on catering, including the use of the 29 Palms Cantina Event Center and/or RastaRita Margarita Trucks.Coyote Grill is located in South Laguna (SoLag) across from the Community Garden at 31261 Coast Highway, laguna Beach. Go to CoyoteGrill.tv for breakfast/lunch/dinner menus and happy hour detailsJoin me LIVE on Mondays, 2 pm PDT/5 pm EDT at KXFM 104.7 Radio for new restaurant news and reviews, the best Laguna events, and plenty of rockin’ interviews with Laguna Beach chefs, restaurateurs and downright interesting people.If you’re not nearby to twirl that radio dial … in fact, if you’re one of my subscribers hailing from one of those 32 countries, download the free KXFM Radio app from Google Play or the App Store … OR just go online to KXFMRadio.org