Blanca in Newport Beach Dishes Out Crudo, an Italian Spin on Sushi

It's been exactly five years since I was given the honor of writing restaurant reviews for this fine paper. In that time, I've been to what I estimate is about 300 restaurants. I'm not going to start rattling of my favorites, because, well, I and...

For those who remember, two years ago in May of '08, I reviewed a new Newport Beach restaurant which specialized in crudo, the Italian version of sashimi. The place was called Blanca — the first of many ambitious eateries in what was part of...

Code has opened. If you remember, this is the place that took over Fury in Newport Beach. Done by the people behind Tentation, Ten Asian Bistro, Mosun G, and others, the interior looks as impressive as its exterior; which, by the way, seems like...

A few months ago, Orange County had its first crudo bar in Blanca; and now, not so much. There was already signs of trouble back in July when repo men were sent to rip out equipment from its kitchens as Newport Beach police stood guard. Blanca's...

Opt for six courses. Bring a jacket or wrap if you chill easily. Don’t think too hard about the intimidating-looking mound of box crab meat with various essences of tomato and seaweed. Simply plunge your spoon in and devour it all. Don’t stare too...