NEW & NOTEWORTHY in South County

Taz, which translates to a relaxing Tai Chai movement, is now a fascinating restaurant which recently debuted on the site of China Bistro opposite Montage Resort, blessing Orange County with a most unusual Oriental dining concept. While Asian fusion cuisine is hardly new, the approach of passionate principal Geri Hulon decidedly introduces originality. Utilizing the exotic, many-faceted ingredients of Thailand, Indonesia, Mongolia, Vietnam & China, Cordon Bleu/sushi trained executive chef Don Hulon, brings enticing original taste sensations to the menu. Each dish is created with fresh, quality ingredients daily; even nuts are roasted in the kitchen. The talented mother/son duo recently launched a series of progressive monthly dinners featuring 8 course repasts inspired by different Asian cultures. These are coupled with a trio of sake flights to savor from pretty purple glasses posed on a spiraling metal stand to savor as each generously portioned dish is offered for enjoyment with fellow diners, in the Taz sharing dishes concept. Initially came November’s tantalizing Thai dinner which will be followed in January with a Mongolian feast. Seating's are at 6 pm and 8 pm Sunday and Friday, all tabbed at a remarkable $18.95. The beautiful interior, replete with onyx furnishings in the bar, teakwood in the dining room, greatly reflects the energetic persona and grace of lovely Hulon whose considerable expertise is obvious again in the restaurant’s classic ambiance. She has judiciously added an inviting sake/wine lounge in the rear with its own welcoming entry cornering spacious free parking facilities. This also conveniently expedites take-out orders.
Info: 30832 So. Coast Hy. South Laguna 949 499-5236


Laguna's long awaited Lumberyard, formerly Cedar Creek, finally materialized following months of reconstruction with stupendous results as one would expect of prestigious restaurateur Cary Redfearn. With wife, Suzane, the original, handsome Normandy building has been contrasted with a state-of-the-art interior. Focal point is the central bar, an elongated horseshoe of polished mahogany, the rich wood appearing everywhere from solid tables and sturdy partitions to impressive overhead beams, rich leather upholstery complementing all. No amenity has been overlooked even to restrooms where sinks are simply tilted white slabs allowing water to mystically disappear. An impressive slab from an African Acacia tree forms a table in old Joe Thurston's front corner office in the historic landmark, welcoming guests to enjoy intimate seating adjacent to an elevated dining room. All-American comfort food at reasonable prices dominate chef Julio Hawkins' menu focusing on chicken pot pie, meatloaf, fish & chips, rotisserie chicken, spaghetti & meatballs for around $15. A $12 half pound cheeseburger comes with rice, green beans, spinach, sweet potato or French fries. Planked king salmon is $22, filet mignon, rib eye and NY steaks, $32 & $33. However, bread/butter are not included with dinner and cocktail/wines are a bit on the pricey side.
Info: 384 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach. 949 715-3900 - www.lblumberyard.com


UPDATES:

Exciting news to learn popular Marcos Costas, former general manager of French 75 in Laguna Beach, has been appointed g.m. of soon to be launched Andrea Italian restaurant at Pelican Resort in Newport Coast. Meanwhile, his post at French 75 has been filled by charming Nadine Hotong who held the position early on for five successful years until 2000. Together with executive chef Mitch Gillan, her return promises to stir up some excitement over such seasonal favorites as coq au vin and wild mushroom ravioli. (949 494-8444)

Primarily a result of escrow problems, we are pleased to report that Olamendi's popular Mexican Restaurant upstairs in Laguna Village Fair is continuing as usual under astute direction of Rosa Olamendi.
Info: 1100 So. Coast Hwy. 949 497-4148 - www.olamendis.com

Blessings, Glori Fickling

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