There’s a bit to drink this weekend as we ping pong between Newport Beach and Costa Mesa for suggestions. Our best advice for times like this: bring along a designated driver. Stay close to home while the rest of ’em are headed to Comic-Con.
Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop’s Wine Tasting – Costa Mesa
To clarify, we are referring to the location at SoCo (not 17th Street). Tonight they are having a Thirsty Thursday special with winemaker Jed Steele from 6-8 p.m. For $20, sample a quartet of wines with small bites. Bonus: RSVP ahead of time, and you’ll not only save $5, but earn an additional wine selection! Get to know Steele Wines by dropping in or RSVPing to OC******@gr***************.com.
Moulin Wine Tasting – Newport Beach
Continue your thirst for knowledge on Saturday during an exploration of the Burgundy region. French wine fanatics will learn more than they expect between six to eight pours, all while nibbling on charcuterie and cheese. The cost is $29, and you can reserve a seat by calling (949) 474-0920. They begin popping bottles at 5 p.m.
Coming soon: OCAPICA Tastemakers of Orange County – Costa Mesa
Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 8. That’s when the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) will hold their first annual Tastemakers event, featuring chefs Brian Huskey (Tackle Box), Greg Daniels (Haven Gastropub), Tarit Tanjasiri (The Crema Cafe) and Amar Santana (Vaca). Join in on the tastings and silent auction, as all proceeds will benefit the non-profit’s youth education, mental health and civic engagement opportunities for low income families. Tickets range from $65-95, and can be purchased by clicking here. Also click over to view the complete list of participating chefs.
Ongoing: Afternoon Tea At American Tea Room – Newport Beach
Recently added to Fashion Island’s upscale options is tea service from Friday through Sunday. Due to their limited seating, reservations are highly recommended. Your experience is divided between three tiers (ranging from $25-$45), with the option to share with a friend. Highlights include decadent Tangier butter for spreading on your creme fraiche scone, plus a tasty chai chicken sandwich with bits of red onion and apple. Oh, and those sweets! Densely flavored petits fours and tea infused truffles are difficult to choose between. But save room for the perfect finish: creamy, matcha infused panna cotta, garnished with black sesame seeds and whipped cream.
A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.