Pork Belly Decadence

We'd made reservations for Fireside Tavern—tucked inside the Crowne Plaza across the freeway from South Coast Plaza—but we didn't actually need one. Aside from the two traveling businessmen who'd just checked in at the front desk and were making a...

Have you ever heard of the Korean dish called budae jjigae—better known as “army base stew”? It’s a big cauldron of broth made brick-red with gochujang, pepper flakes and kimchi—typical ingredients in a Korean soup. But when you dig in, you start...

Upon my first trip to El Mahroosa Cafe N Hookah Lounge, I had a choice. Do I sit in the stark white room under harsh fluorescent lights, or do I make my way to the covered patio? It was clear. No one sits in the front room. Everyone, even if...

The all-you-can-eat deal at Surah Korean BBQ & Sushi is an endeavor that demands steely commitment, stretchy pants and the accompaniment of at least two other people. The last part is a real requirement. Though couples are welcome to try it the...

I’ve yet to try dinner at What a Dish Cafe in Dana Point, but not from a lack of trying. One Sunday evening, I made the long trek from central OC. I thought that if we arrived at least half an hour prior to the 10 p.m. closing time advertised on...