With the recent opening of its third OC location, in the Irvine Market Place, Lazy Dog Cafe will certainly create some competition for the nearby BJ's Restaurant as word continues to spread. Both restaurants feature full bars separated from the regular dining area, but the vibe at Lazy Dog is very different–it's homey and comfortable, with less of a crowded feel. Maybe it's the rustic decor, or maybe it's the fact that Roder Montenegro, one of the bartenders, gives everyone sitting around the bar a personal introduction and continues to check in with you.
Even harder to beat is the Lazy Dog Beer Sampler. For $5.75 during Happy Hour ($6.75 regularly), this wheel-o-beer includes five, 6-ounce samples that include a hefeweizen and porter from Bayhawk Ales of Irvine, and pale ale, honey blonde, and red ale from Firestone Brewery in Paso Robles.
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The sampler obviously has something for every beer drinker, but the standout is the Firestone Pale Ale. (Firestone's motto is “Passion For The Pale,” after all.) The pale ale is a medium-bodied brew that manages to balance the taste of hops with floral and citrus notes.
Pale ale not your beer of choice? Just spin that wheel! It's easier to taste the differences between samples if you start with the Hefeweizen and drink clockwise–light to dark.
Double Happy Hour:
Monday – Friday
3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
9 p.m. – Close
(Bar & Patio Only)
13290 Jamboree Rd.
Irvine
714-731-9700
16310 Beach Blvd.
Westminster
714-500-1140
1623 West Katella Ave.
Orange
714-769-7020
