Orange County Archives - Page 7 of 9

Celebrate National Pasta Month At Brio Tuscan Grille at Irvine Spectrum

brio-pasta — Photo credit to Brio Tuscan Grille

Ciao pasta lovers!

It’s National Pasta month, and in celebration I headed to Brio Tuscan Grille at Irvine Spectrum to get my pasta fix.

Hosted: Thank you Brio Tuscan Grille for inviting me to celebrate National Pasta Month at your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

Brio is located at the Irvine Spectrum so its perfect if you’re looking to kill time before getting seated, or if you want to dine after shopping. The restaurant is chic, elegant and ideal for a romantic dinner date…

We started off with this Sliced Steak Bruschetta. It had Gorgonzola, arugula, and charred tomato. It was a great starter before our entrée.

Our friendly waitress walked me though the menu options. She was knowledgeable and very helpful.

The Pasta Alla Vodka has Ricotta-filled pasta, spicy tomato cream, and pancetta. It was very rich and flavorful. It was definitely a palate pleaser!

Brio has a gluten free, vegetarian and a light calorie menu. They also have a kids menu for those bringing the kiddos out to dine.

The restaurant is family friendly and great for large parties. Patio seating is also available. The portions were generous and I had enough leftovers to take home to enjoy.

National Pasta Month Menu

It’s #NationalPastaMonth at BRIO Tuscan Grille where two-course pasta combos are available Now through–Oct. 29. Select pasta dishes, paired with a choice of soup or salad, start at $14.95 for lunch and $17.95 for dinner.

Guests can choose one of the following pasta dishes:

Lobster and Shrimp Ravioli with spicy black pepper cream, spinach, and grape tomatoes ($15.95 at lunch and $22.95 at dinner)
Pasta Fra Diavolo, with a choice of chicken or shrimp, featuring spicy tomato cream sauce, and campanelle pasta ($14.95 at lunch and $18.95 at dinner) (can be made gluten free upon request)
Pasta Pesto with Chicken (light item) featuring angel hair, grilled chicken, caramelized onions, spinach, tomatoes, red peppers, Feta, and light pesto ($14.95 at lunch and $17.95 at dinner) (can be made gluten free upon request)

Guests’ choice of one soup or salad includes:

Soup of the Day
Lobster Bisque (Add $1)
BRIO Chopped Salad
Caesar Salad
Wedge Salad

Also starting October 10, in the spirit of the fall season, BRIO will offer two seasonal cocktails:

Apple Crisp Cooler –Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, apple juice, Apple Pucker liqueur, apple butter, apple wedge, cinnamon sugar rim ($8.50)

Caramel Apple Cider Appletini Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, apple cider, lemon juice, simple syrup, apple slice, caramel and cinnamon sugar rim $7.95)

You gotta have dessert! The creme brulee and the classic tiramisu are both classically prepared without being overly sweet. Paired with a cup of hot coffee or espresso and you have the ending to a perfect meal!

The staff was very friendly and the service was exceptional. I will definitely be back with my family…

Address:

Irvine Spectrum

774 Spectrum Ctr Dr
Irvine, CA 92618

(949) 341-0380

Easy 30 Minute Workout At Curves In Laguna Niguel

My life is hectic. Between being a mom of four, working, and being the family chauffeur I rarely have time to workout. I often feel tired and overwhelmed from my hectic schedule. I recently found an easy solution to get in a workout I can actual fit into my day. Curves offers an easy 30 minute workout routine, that is so doable and fun!

Thank You Curves in Laguna Niguel for inviting me to work out at your location. All opinions are my own.

It’s so nice to get in a little “me” time at the gym.

The Coaches

The personal coaches at Curves are enthusiastic, upbeat, and knowledgeable. In the past, I have worked out with trainers that were intimidating and a little over the top.

This gym is for real women who want to improve their lives, health, and endurance.

At Curves, you’re never alone. Our supportive coaches are always there to help you get a safe, effective workout. She’ll help you with your form and push you to your personal best. When you have a workout coach, they become deeply vested in your success as well. You’re in this together–it’s a partnership.

The Easy 30 Minute Workout

This easy workout was so easy to do!

The Curves 30-minute workout combines strength training and bodyweight-based exercises to help you tone your muscle and burn up to 500 calories per workout. The Curves circuit is full of specially-designed strength machines designed to give you a total body workout. All it takes is 30 minutes, 3-4 times per a week, to help you reach your strength potential.

There is an awesome vibe at the Curves in Laguna Niguel. The staff is friendly and know each member by their first name. The members are also positive and motivate each other. I love this!

The Classes

Curves has classes unlike any other gym or workout facility. Thier specialty fitness classes can help you:

Improve balance, stability and core strength
Get stronger arms, core and legs
Stretch and strengthen you muscles
Get a total body workout

CARDIO Target your whole body and increase your cardiovascular endurance both on the Curves Circuit and in-between each machine.

BOXING CLASSBoxing is a higher-intensity class that combines cardio, strength, coordination and balance.

BODY BASICS: ARMS CORE LEGS CLASSTarget your arms, core and legs through moves performed both on the Curves Circuit and in-between each machine.

BALANCE CLASSImprove your balance, stability and core strength.

Ever since I started working out at Curves, I have more energy and I sleep better…

If you are an extremely busy and don’t have a lot of time for fitness, this easy workout is for you!

Curves address:

27781 La Paz Road

Laguna Niguel, Ca 92677

Bad To The Bone BBQ in San Juan Capistrano

Friday night is family night and I generally stay out of the kitchen. By the end of the week, we are exhausted and ready for some fun. My family loves to eat out and catch up, and we recently heard about Bad To The Bone in San Juan Capistrano. This girl LOVES a juicy steak, and I was thrilled to check this place out!

Hosted:Thank you Bad To The Bone BBQ for inviting my family to dine at your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

There was a long line in front of the restaurant, so I knew this place had to be good since it appeared popular among the locals. As we walked in, the music was playing and the atmosphere had a great vibe. The decor was rustic and western. I couldn’t keep my eyes off the large plates that were being served to the guests. The menu had a large selection to choose from, and the attentive staff walked me through the options.

We started off with these delish street tacos. You can choose from smoked carnitas, pulled smoked chicken, brisket or fish…

We decided to split a four meat combo plate, which comes with two sides. We got chicken, brisket, tri tip, pulled pork, and baby back ribs, along with ranch beans and cole slaw. While waiting, we stocked up on the four BBQ sauces they offer – original, special, vinegar, and hot.

I also ordered a Mesquite Grilled Steak. This tender juicy Sirloin is severed with two sides.

Everything came out quickly and the food smelled heavenly. The portions were generous and the plates were easy to share.

My son ordered a hamburger and devoured it. The kids menu starts at $8.95.

There is also a great selection of sides such as cole slaw, ranch beans, garlic mashed potatoes, salads, and much more…The baked beans are just MMM!

The corn bread was fluffy and warm. It was so good, I ordered more to take home!

You cannot leave without eating dessert and trying the Chocolate Pecan Pie!

If you are looking for delicious food with plentiful portions, this is the spot! We love to support local businesses and we will definitely be back … I suggest making a reservation to avoid waiting in line. Go give it a try!

Bad To The Bone was homestyle BBQ address:

31738 Rancho Viejo Rd

San Juan Capistrano, Ca 92675

Phone: 949-218-0227

Seasalt Woodfire Grill: Santa Maria Style Barbecue in Huntington Beach

Living in the Central Coast was a unique and a memorable experience… I have wonderful memories of taking my children on lovely hikes at Oso Flaco Lake, picnics at local wineries, and eating delicious Santa Maria barbecue. The food and wine is like no other, and continues to be a highlight in my memory book.

On weekends, my family loved driving up Broadway street in Santa Maria. Local churches and organizations would set up on the main road, to grill and fundraise for different causes. As we drove we could smell the amazing aroma of the barbecue pits grilling up tri-tip, linguisa, chicken, and other central coast favorites.

I recently heard about Seasalt Woodfire Grill in Huntington Beach, and I was thrilled to learn that I didn’t have to drive four hours up the coast to get some authentic, Santa Maria-Style barbecue. I was curious to know if this restaurant was the real deal, and let me tell you…. It is!

Thank you Seasalt Woodfire Grill for letting me review your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

About Santa Maria Barbecue

Have you ever tried Santa Maria-style barbecue? If not, you MUST!

Santa Maria barbecue is unique and centered around beef tri-tip. It is usually seasoned with salt, black pepper, and garlic salt. It is grilled over coals of native coast live oak, and often referred to as “red oak” wood.

Pinquito Beans are also an important component of traditional central coast barbecue. They are a cross between small white beans and pinto beans. They grow well in the fertile soil, and in mild climate of the Santa Maria Valley.

santa-maria-huntington-beach — Photo credit to Seasalt Woodfire Grill

The ambiance is casual, yet chic. I could feel the Pacific Ocean breeze as I entered the restaurant. Patio seating is available, and surrounds a large fire pit.

Memory: This reminded me of our lazy days at Porter Ranch, when we would sit around a large fire pit, barbecue, and let the kids run free.

Different seasoning are brought to the table to add a little flavor to the dishes. (if desired)

As you walk into the restaurant, there is a full service bar. The Farm Craft Rim libations added to the whole Central Coast foodie experience.

I sipped on this fresh Grilled Piña cocktail (tequila + pineapple +jalapeño). It was much like my personality, and was the perfect combination of sweet and spicy… Sooo good.

We started out with the Tri Tip Nachos with manchego cheese sauce, cowboy cavier and Santa Maria Beans. They were tasty and we devoured them in 2.5 seconds!

The Whole Grilled Cauliflower with manchego cheese fandue, was appetizing and melted in my mouth.

I tried the Tri-Tip, Ribs, and Linguisa… The rustic presentation was impressive and the portions were generous. The meats were tender, juicy, and delectable.

The 12 ounce Spencer is also a great option.

Dessert anyone?

You cannot leave without eating dessert. Omar’s OG Pudding is to die for, and the Scorched S’mores is a MUST TRY!

The flavors at Seasalt Woodfire Grill were authentic, exquisite and reminded me of the beautiful time we lived in the Central Coast. I can’t wait to go back with family and friends… Cheers!

Address

21200 Beach Boulevard

Huntington Beach, CA 92648

714-804-5545

Urban Plates In Aliso Viejo: Food That Tastes Good and Feels Good

My foodie friends and I headed to Urban Plates in Aliso Viejo earlier this month. We all share a passion for good food, and we love to try out new places. We were excited about our visit to Urban Plates in Aliso Viejo, because we had taken a glimpse at the menu online, and we knew there were several options for our diverse palates.

Hosted: Thank you Urban Plates for inviting me to your Aliso Viejo location to try your delicious food. All opinions are my own.

WARNING: The images below may cause some drooling…

As I walked into the restaurant it smelled heavenly…

Everything looked colorful, fresh, and appetizing. The options were endless. I was a little overwhelmed at first, but the attentive staff walked me through the menu selection.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options are also available.

I was craving a salad, and I made my way to the salad bar. It was prepared and tossed right in front of me.

This Antioxidant salad was fresh and crisp.. This UP salad had a lettuce blend, organic baby kale, cucumbers, celery, mint, pickled onions, raw walnuts, grapes, blue cheese, seasonal fruit, and a mint-lemongrass balsamic vinaigrette.

The Urban Pizzettes are hand-stretched and made with organic dough. You can choose from margherita, pepperoni & cheese, bbq chicken, and portobello & pesto. Soooo good!

My pescatarian friend raved about the Herbed Salmon Salad.

It has bibb lettuce, up lettuce blend, roasted and chilled salmon, organic tomatoes, sliced fennel, red bell peppers, garlic croutons, organic egg, green onions, and green goddess dressing.

I indulged, but I felt guilt free because the food was fresh and made with high quality ingredients. It was wholesome, delicious, and affordable.

UP is casual and family friendly. They offer awesome kid options to choose from such as pizza, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and the urban kid plate that has the choice of grilled free range chicken or grilled steak & any hot or cold side and chargrilled focaccia.

Dessert anyone?

The bakery section at UP is incredible. The pastries and selection of baked goods includes a variety of made-from-scratch cookies, cupcakes, tarts, brownies, layer cakes, cheesecake, cream pies and much more!

My personal favorite was the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Crunch Cupcake. This chocolate cupcake is topped with peanut butter frosting, peanut pretzel caramel crunch, chocolate and a ganache drizzle.

I love this place so much, I went two days in a row! On day two, I ordered the Caprese Sandwich and Tomato Soup. I’m sure I will be back with my family soon…

Take out and delivery options available.

Urban Plates Address:

Aliso Viejo Town Center
26661 Aliso Creek Road, Suite B
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

(949) 424-6160

Win 2 Tickets To Paella Beer & Wine Festival At The OC Fairgrounds August 26th

Do you like Spanish paella and vino?

If so, mark your calendars!

On August 26th from 4-9pm, Orange County’s first Paella Wine & Beer Festival is coming to the OC Fair Grounds. Tickets include unlimited wine, beer and more than 80 different kinds of paella! The nearly 50 local chefs will make the best paella of their lives to compete for the chance to represent the U.S. along with nine other countries at the World Paella Championship in Spain…

I’m giving away 2 tickets! Enter the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win before Thursday August 24th midnight…

Thank you Paella Beer & Wine Festival for the complimentary tickets. All opinions are my own.

“We’re thrilled to bring this exciting celebrationof Spanish culture and cuisine to Orange County, where close to 50 local chefs will create more than 80 different kinds of paella for attendees to enjoy along with unlimited wine and beer,” said Armando Rodiel, CEO & Founder of the Paella Wine & Beer Festival. “The stakes are high for the participating chefs, with the winning team securing a spot at the prestigious World Paella Championship in Spain next month to compete with nine other countries. So, bring your appetites and we’ll provide everything needed for a spectacular evening!”

Like a Spanish open-air market, there will be live entertainment including Flamenco and Spanish rock, and local vendors will offer tapas, sangrias, cocktails, cultural art, and much more.

With thousands expected to attend, the Paella Wine & Beer Festival is one of the most authentic Hispanic culinary events in the United States and presents a unique opportunity for local chefs to become known internationally. Every paella will be judged by experts, most of which are traveling from Spain, to weigh in on the competition. At the event, there will also be a record set with the largest paella ever made in the United States, enough to feed 3,000 people, prepared by Chef Leo Razo of Villa Roma in Laguna Niguel.

¡Viva España!

Hope to see you all at the Paella Beer & Wine Festival this weekend…

Location:

OC Fairgrounds

88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Time:

4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Tickets:

Tickets start at $50

Tickets include unlimited paella, wine and beer. A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to CANICA USA, a nonprofit which raises funds to grant wishes for impoverished children in Mexico and South America who are living with cancer.

Enter win the tickets on the Rafflecopter below before Thursday August 24th midnight!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Marvel Universe LIVE In Anaheim This Weekend Only

Are you a Marvel fan?

If so, you don’t want to miss Marvel Universe LIVE this weekend at the Honda Center in Anaheim!

Last night we made it out to opening night of the show, and it was spectacular! This action packed adventure kept my son and I on the edge of our seats. This show is great for the entire family…

Hosted: Thank you Marvel and Feld Entertainment for inviting us to Marvel Universe LIVE! All opinions are my own.

About Marvel Universe LIVE

Super hero action, thrills and drama will soar, smash and burst into arenas across the country starting this summer with the debut of the all-new action-packed adventure Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes. The iconic Marvel Super Heroes Spider-Man and The Avengers are joined by the Guardians of the Galaxy, including Star-Lord, Gamora, Groot, Rocket and Drax, in a

legendary battle to defend the universe from evil.

Avengers assemble!

This good vs evil battle takes spectators on a rollercoaster ride. Marvel Universe LIVE had nonstop action, unbelievable stunts, and was filled with AMAZING special effects. The fire dance was my favorite part of the show. My 10 year old son said, “The battle scenes were so cool mom!” He was ecstatic to see Spider-Man, Drax, Star-Lord, Groot, and his favorite Marvel characters all in one arena.

We took a behind the scenes look at Marvel Universe LIVE and were totally geeking out!

At preview day we learned first hand some of the incredible stunt moves used in the show from the athletic performers directly; and watched some of the epic battle scenes demos live! We also experienced a “sword fight” choreography with Kali Stick demos.

We took a look at the backstage wardrobe tour of costumes & props featured in the show. It was incredible to see how an extraordinary show like this comes together.

This show is a MUST-SEE… Go see it this weekend at the Honda Center!

Show Dates and Times:

Anaheim

Thursday, July 20

Sunday, July 23

Thursday, July 20- 7:00 PM

Friday, July 21- 7:00 PM

Saturday, July 22- 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Sunday, July 23- 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

Address:

Honda Center- 2695 E. Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806

Tickets:

Tickets start at $25 each

Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in – person at the venue Box Office.

*Ticket prices subject to change; tickets may be subject to service charges, facility and handling fees.

Free Summer Entertainment for Kids on Tuesdays at the Kaleidoscope OC

Are you looking for things to do with your kiddos this summer? Well, you don’t have to travel far for some fun.

The Kaleidoscope in OC is offering free kid events on Tuesdays from 11:30 12:30. Below is a list of upcoming activities that your little ones will enjoy!

Summer Schedule

Tues., July 11 Bubble Show

Tues., July 18 Games Master

Tues., July 25 Lego Playtime

Tues., August 1 Cartoonist

Tues., August 8 Carnival

The Kaleido-Kids Carnival on August 8 will include inflatables, games, a juggler, a stilt walker, face painting and a balloon artist. Tickets are $1 each, $5 for six, $10 for 15, and $2 for a “Spin to Win”. Guests who bring a new toy (no guns please) or new backpack to donate to Make-A-Wish will receive six game tickets and a “Spin to Win,” a chance to win prizes.

Also on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout summer, Edwards Kaleidoscope Stadium 10 is hosting its annual Summer Movie Express, which features family movies (rated G or PG) for only $1 admission per person. The movies are shown on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10am from June 20 to August 16.

Kaleidoscope Kids — photo credit to Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope-Summer — photo credit to Kaleidoscope

Free face painting, balloon art, along with games, inflatables, a DJ and more, are part of the fun at the annual Kaleido-Kids Carnival to benefit Make-A- Wish Orange County and Inland Empire.

Have a great summer!

Kaleidoscope Address 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 Phone: 949.542.4417

Giveaway: Enter to Win A Fresh Brothers Pizza Party for Eight Kids

I am a Pizzaterian, you know when you only eat pizza…

We are serious pizza lovers in my home, and last month we checked out Fresh Brothers in Newport Beach. This family friendly spot is a new favorite of ours, and my fam bam is raving about it…

I love throwing parties and gatherings in my home, but honestly the cooking and cleaning is a pain. I recently learned that Fresh Brothers offers convenient pizza parties.

I would LOVE for you to check this place out with your family and friends, so I am giving away a pizza party for eight kiddos. Enter the Rafflecopter below by August 9th!

Hosted: Thank you Fresh Brothers for inviting us to try your amazing pizza and other awesome menu items. All opinions are my own.

The staff at Fresh Brothers is warm and friendly. As soon as we walked in the restaurant ,we felt very welcomed.

The fresh vegetable pizza is crazy good. You can choose your own crust with green peppers, onions, mushrooms, and green & black olives.

I scarfed down the meatball sliders. They were served in a warm Hawaiian bun. They also have salads, tasty chicken wings, soft drinks, and beer.

These warm cinnamon rolls came straight from the oven. The warm icing melted on the roll and in my mouth.. Seriously yummm and another MUST-TRY on the menu.

Host a pizza party at Fresh Brothers

Fresh brothers is an awesome spot for birthdays, graduation party, and /or end-of-season team parties…

Here’s an example of activities offered for kids parties: (customized parties available upon request)

Kids get a Fresh Brother’s pizza box, plus stickers, markers, and crayons to decorate it with.
Kids make their own kid-size pizza, anyway they want to (so long as it’s edible).
Off the pizzas go into the oven, and when they’re ready, we put them in the boxes they decorated and bring them out.
Everybody gets dough to play with, plus a one-of-a-kind “I Made My Own at Fresh Brothers” T-shirt, too.

Fun? They’ll eat it up. I know where I’m hosting my next party…

My son and his friends enjoyed decorating their pizza boxes.

This mini chef truly enjoyed creating his own pizza!

How adorable is this t-shirt?

We had a blast at Fresh Brothers with our friends, and we know you will to!

Other Orange County locations:

Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, Newport Mesa, Irvine Harvard Place, and Irvine Market Place

I would LOVE for you to check this place out! Enter the the Rafflecopter below to win a party for eight kiddos!

Restrictions: Must be used within the next year. Good for up to 8 kids. Prize will be fulfilled by Fresh Brothers Pizza. One prize per household. Must be used at the Newport Beach or Laguna Niguel location.

Enter below before August 9th!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

5 Reasons to Visit Knott’s Berry Farm Ghost Town ALIVE

Howdy!

School is FINALLY out for summer and my family and I are soaking in the SoCal sun. We are always looking for adventure, and fortunately we don’t have to travel far for some good ol’ fun… Earlier this week we headed to Knott’s Berry Farms Ghost Town ALIVE and we watched this shabby old town come to life! There’s lots to do in this creaky old town, so get your favorite boots on and cowboy hat and head to Knott’s for some fun!

About Knott’s Ghost Town ALIVE

This summer, the story continues a year after the notorious Mayfield Gang escaped the custody of Sheriff Wheeler. Word around town is the Mayfield’s have been spotted back in Calico and the townsfolk are in need of some help in capturing the bandits and keeping the town safe. Ghost Town Alive! will offer guests a firsthand experience to play an important part in this unfolding story of the wild west, with specific tasks and activities and an essential role as an honorary citizen of Calico.

Calico — Photo Credit To Knott’s Berry Farm

Here are 5 reasons to make your way to Knott’s Ghost Town Alive this summer!

Calico Saloon Show- Calico Saloon

This country show is entertaining and hilarious!

2.Wild West Stunt Show-Wagon Camp

At the Wagon Camp Stage, Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies mount their toe tappin’, knee-slappin’, gut-bustin’ country comedy show that had my family clamoring for more!

This action packed show is full of surprises!

During your visit make sure to:

Vote for the Mayor in the town election
Meet the prospector and his trusty burro and Brutus
Register to become an official citizen of Calico
Draw up hand-made wanted posters of your favorite bandit
Get a handlebar or walrus mustache applied at the Barbershop
Try your luck at a game of cards with the sneaky Sheriff
Lock up the bandits in the town patty wagon
Visit the Livery Stable to meet the talented equestrian team of horses and more!