Nibbles of Tidbits, a Food Blog

Guess who/what will be celebrating a big anniversary this month?  It’s not the pictured couple if you’re trying to decipher the faces — I don’t know who they are (probably models), but what a great way to commemorate.  Come back April 24th with Champagne in hand for the answer.

Do you know The Triangle (f/k/a Triangle Square) in Costa Mesa?  Yes, it’s called The Triangle now and it’s hoping to attract more guests than there ever was — I hope it does too, since the space has historically underperformed.  I’m not sure why, since parking isn’t that bad.

New Restaurants and Bars are open and due to open this Saturday, April 20th — The Saddle Ranch Chop House and El Corazon de Costa Mesa to name just two.  And I’m most excited to see a coming soon sign for Tavern Bowl.  Things seem to be pointing upward for The Triangle.

I liked the colors of Triangle Square better, but perhaps it’s one of the ways The Triangle is hoping to capture more attention — And one should pay attention, and GO, since it is built and looks to be tasty and fun there.  Be there or you’re a square.  Success is wished to all by us!

May your day be filled with Jelly Belly Corn on the Cob, quartered Orange Starbursts, Green Apple Runts, Caramel Sauce Gravy, Yellow Starburst Butter and Graham Cracker Chicken.

Don’t pass up allowable time to pull one over — Photo credit and recipes are here and here.

I want to pull up a seat in front of this setting — Looks like much is about to be served.

Many thanks to the California Avocado Commission, Mission Produce and to California Avocado Growers, especially the Pinkertons for one of the best days ever.  We LOVE Avocados.

We recently traveled to Oxnard for a hands on tour with a California Avocado Grower.

It’s a special day when you start it with an outdoor brunch on a hill.

AVOCADOS — The Star of the day in every way.

We learned about growing techniques from Dan Pinkerton on his farm.

Bloggers from all around were invited to experience the California Avocado Story.

We RSVP’ed Y-E-S!

And you can see why we were glad to experience it all.

Avocado in EVERYTHING was the Menu — Starting with a Shrimp and Scallop Ceviche.

Bacon Smoked with Avocado Wood.

A very fresh Fruit Salad, including Avocados — It’s a Fruit you know, right!?

Omelettes with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Cheese and sliced Avocados.

Baby Greens Salad with Avocado.

Spring Vegetable, Sausage and California Avocado Frittata.

Warm Bagels with an Avocado Spread.

Grilled Fajita Potatoes with Avocados.

A Chocolate Mousse dessert made with Avocados.

Professionals also photographed Avocados’ glory.

My first plate (below) before going back for more Bacon Smoked with Avocado Wood.

Take all the Avocados you want they told us — Thank you!

We stuffed our face (and bags to go). 🙂

We loved the view, brunch and our friendly, informative tour guides.

Our drive was already worth it.

Then it was on to Dan and Susan Pinkerton’s other grove/farm/crop, along with Jan from the California Avocado Commission to pick our own Avocados and possibly drive a tractor.

Learning about tree buds and what to look for and hope for when growing Avocados.

The beautiful trees were loaded.

Looking to pick some Avocados.

As if all wasn’t enough, it was on to a tour of one of California’s leading Avocado packing houses, Mission Produce — It was truly a behind-the-scenes look at a farm-to-fork journey.

Hair nets please everyone — Oh goody.

Thousands of Avocados — Crates filled on farms and hauled off by tractors to be here.

First a cold wash to bring down the Avocados’ basking-in-the-sun temperature.

The cool-down is an important step to Mission Produce.

On to the belts and rollers, through specially made machinery.

First a wash, then light wax.

Now sorting — Second tier Avocados, Grade 2’s get tossed on top for separate packaging.

Others move on to be weighed, stickered by size and PLU, then packaged.

Each cup weighs then drops the Avocado — I think the heaviest lasts the longest.  Not sure.

Boxing Avocados to be shipped to grocery stores and restaurants near YOU.

You’ve seen them sold in stores and now you know the care involved — All is well run.

More Avocados to take home — Thank you!  And a 1/2 Avocado Stress Ball.  Does it look real?

We’re grateful for all that grows, those who grow it and those who get it to us.

What an amazing day — God bless California Avocados.

Today would’ve been my sweet Grandpa’s 95th Birthday — We miss him and others gone by.

At the 4th Annual Taste Awards with Cat Cora, an award presenter and recipient.

This year I was one of numerous Judges — Award Winners were announced in December.

Medals were handed out at The Taste Awards Ceremony at the Vibiana this January evening.  Flipping Out won for Best Home Decor and Design Program, as represented by Jenni (above).

P. Allen Smith presented a few awards — A fine fellow we just met.

All went well, no one slipped or tripped, but the sound could’ve been better.

The Vibiana is grand and gorgeous — Inside it glowed in RED, pink and purple.

Outside there was little food — We liked what we ate, but hoped for more.

Can you guess the meat?

It’s Goose for Goose Tacos — Plain looking and simple as can be, yet quite tasty.

Above is a Potato/Chorizo appetizer of some sort from the Idaho Potato peeps.

Plates with a hole for a drink glass (above) may be cooler than the people below.

Champagne? Tequila? Thanks for offering.

Too much Tequila for our Idaho Potato Guy — Had to chill on the bench for a while.

Below:  Me on stage pretending to present an award after the show was over, and with my friend Michelle, pretending others are taking pictures of us — In between are Caramels by Amella and the address of the Vibiana.  Thanks for the invitation.  It was a good experience.

I’m hungry, but happy.  Tommy’s or Pink’s sounds good.

At The Getty Center in Los Angeles surrounded by works of art indoors and out.

A tasteful way to spend a day B at the Get-TAY — It ain’t no ghetto. We sang… At the Get-TAY.

A Banquet Piece by Pieter Claesz (1630), a favorite of our food related selections is pictured above — Others are woven between photos of pristine grounds and architecture, spectacular views, and surprisingly great Pizza.  Admission is FREE to see all.  Parking is $15.00.

Flowering Maze over a reflecting pool — Go through it on a boat. JK, it’s just for viewing.

Still Life Tea Set by Jean-Etienne Liotard (Circa 1781).

City and ocean views are framed within 30-inch square grids of travertine — Beauty abounds.

Still Life with Grapes and Other Fruit by Luca Forte (1630).

There are endless angles to appreciate at The Getty Center.

The Restaurant (below) offers Brunch and sophisticated Lunch and Dinner MENUS.

And the Cafe at The Getty Center is located below it.

The Cafe is somewhat cafeteria-style offering convenient, prepared and cook to order food.

We opted for the Pepperoni Pizza, Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio.

It (above) unexpectedly turned out to be one of the best Pizzas I’ve ever had.

Cheers to the Pizza — I’m ready to go back for IT, more exhibits and new views.

Still Life with Lemons, Oranges and a Pomegranate by Jacob Van Hulsdonck (Circa 1620).

Just a few of the 360-degree available views.

Still Life with Fish, Vegetables, Gougeres, Pots and Cruets on a Table by Jean-Baptiste Simeon Chardin (1769) is shown above, and more architectural wonder is modeled below — A photography student’s or wide-eyed explorer’s jackpot is at The Getty Center daily.

Did you know that Vincent Van Gogh’s Irises (1889) is there too?

Sit amongst courtyard fountains and well manicured trees — Nothing is out of place.

The Museum Store is entertaining in itself with its unique items for play and purchase.

We were at the Get-TAY at the right time to see one of infinity beautiful sunsets.

And A Maid Milking a Cow in a Barn by Gerard Ter Borch (Circa 1652).

Is the cow on the left looking at us?  I loved its face in person and miss him already. 😉

We saw (and ate) some thaaangs!  Don’t miss it.

Dave & Buster’s for the FOOD would be impressive enough, but no, they’ve got everything.

Step inside to experience entertainment in numerous forms — It’s always fun there.

The Eat+Play Combo’s are pretty good deals — Check ’em out before ordering.

The Snow Cone with Cherry Vodka and Blue Curacao is a fun drink, though on the sweet side.

This visit we ate and played really well together.

In the restaurant, before play, we started with the Spinach Dip (above).

And then had the Fire Grilled Salmon (top) and Chicken and Shrimp Rockefeller (above).

The Dining Room at Dave & Buster’s in Irvine (above) is slated to be remodeled to fit in with recent changes in style and direction — Though I’ve liked it as is, I have confidence in what it might look like next, as D & B’s other transformations have been agreeable.

Our food was excellent — The Chicken and Shrimp Rockefeller is especially awesome.

Cheers to more SPORTS at Dave & Buster’s.

Giant screens to watch favorite teams are scattered throughout.

Walk and roll your way to fun and games.

Pool tables, rooms for private parties, FOOD, Drinks, Sports and Games are to be had.

Lots of GAMES to choose from — We had a blast playin’ for tickets to redeem at the…

…Winner’s Circle for a variety of PRIZES.

Save points and return to add-on more to aim for a top prize, or just see what you can get.

It’s a place for adults (especially) and kids alike — Everyone has a good time there.

It’s all fun and games until someone loses a tie. 😉

Goooooooo Dave & Buster’s!  Thanks for being there for us.

It’s always a great year when it starts at the OC Fair New Year’s Eve Block Party.

Happy 2013 — God Bless the USA with BBQ and liberty for all.

Block Party entrance view from VIP/Media Lounge (above) and its satisfying food (below).

Familiar OC Fair food like Bacon Wrapped Turkey Legs were found between food trucks.

The Lime Truck, one of many Gourmet Food Trucks throughout an area of the OC fairgrounds.

Queen Nation, one of several (1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s & 1990’s) cover bands playing about.

Young and old enjoyed the Game Room, Demolition Derby, rides and midnight confetti.

After the fireworks, it was fun to gather and throw the confetti in the air like snow.

We’d gladly attend every year!

Start the OC Fair New Year’s Eve Block Par-tay early at its Pre-Party Event: It’s Free.

It’s hard to find a good Sports Bar.  I’ve known some bad ones.  Since becoming a Packer’s fan, it’s become important to find a comfortable and tasteful place to watch the games — One with lots of big screens, a civil atmosphere and great food (perhaps hardest to find) is most desired.  We learned about the changes happening at Dave & Buster’s and can’t wait to test out the digs this Sunday.  Read all about it (below) and check back next week for our amusement verdict.  I’ve always liked D&B’s though didn’t previously consider it on game day.

Dave & Buster’s Introduces Ultimate Destination for Sports Fans

New look offers New Sports Viewing, New Food, New Games and New Fun — Think you know Dave & Buster’s? Think again. D&B’s, the leader in all-in-one entertainment, is upping the game with the launch of its newly renovated Irvine Spectrum and Outlets at Orange locations. Combining massive 15-foot TV screens, a new menu, new games, and top to bottom upgrades, Dave & Buster’s is the ultimate go-to game day headquarters for sports fans.

Over the past three months, the Orange and Irvine Dave & Buster’s have been transformed into the ultimate destination for sport enthusiasts, with a new contemporary look and feel. With enormous projection screens and 25 huge HD TV’s, Dave & Buster’s has dining, sports viewing, and entertainment under one roof.

“We’re very excited about our new look and can’t wait to share it with sports fans,” said James Glenn, General Manager, Irvine Spectrum. “Our new sports bar is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, with new food and new games – no other place has this much going on!”

Orange County Dave & Buster’s guests who are looking for fun are definitely going to find it. Highlights of the changes include:

• Sports focused seating, three 180″ projection screens and dozens of additional large TV’s
• Signature Dave & Buster’s Million-Dollar Midway games such as Speed of Light, Quad Air-Hockey, Connect 4, Fruit Ninja and newly added Doodle Jump
• New menu items including: Poppin’ Potatoes, Bistro Steak & Shrimp, Chicken Rockefeller and Snow Cone Cocktails

The Irvine Dave & Buster’s is located at 71 Fortune Dr., Suite 960
 Irvine, CA, 92618. Hours of operation are 11:00 a.m. – midnight Sunday through Wednesday; 11:00 a.m. – 1 a.m., Thursday through Saturday.

The Orange Dave & Buster’s is located 20 City Boulevard West, Bldg. G Suite 1
 Orange, CA, 92868. Hours of operation are 11:30 a.m. – midnight, Sunday through Wednesday; 11:30 a.m. – 1 a.m., Thursday through Saturday.

About Dave & Buster’s

Innovators of the restaurant/entertainment category, Dave & Buster’s was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Dave & Buster’s now operates 60 large venue, high-volume restaurant/entertainment complexes throughout the United States that offer a food and fun-filled experience to adults and families. The exciting environment of the Dave & Buster’s complex contributes to each guest’s experience and also provides the perfect setting for corporate and group events. Dave & Buster’s is currently updating all of its stores to enhance the TV viewing areas and build a larger sports atmosphere. Each Dave & Buster’s offers an impressive selection of high-quality food and beverage items, combined with an extensive array of interactive entertainment attractions such as pocket billiards, shuffleboard, state-of the-art simulators, virtual reality and traditional carnival-style amusements and games of skill. Dave & Buster’s emphasizes high levels of guest service in an upscale atmosphere to create casual, yet sophisticated, ideal playing conditions.

SOURCE: Press Release from Dave & Buster’s — Read more about it here and here.

The New Year’s Eve Block Party returns for a third year with a celebration that only the OC Fair could offer with hit tribute bands, gourmet food trucks, a demolition derby, Vegas-style games and a midnight pyrotechnic celebration, all for one affordable admission price.

For music lovers, the New Year’s Eve Block Party will feature four stages with tribute bands covering four decades of rock music:

• For the 1960’s: Hot August Night – A Neil Diamond Tribute and Abbey Road with Jumping Jack Flash – The Beatles vs. The Stones
• For the 1970’s: Heartbreaker – “Led Zeppelin Live”, Queen Nation – A Tribute to the Music of Queen and Journey Unauthorized – A Salute to the Music of Journey
• For the 1980’s: Strangelove – A Live Depeche Mode Tribute, Atomic Punks – A Van Halen Tribute and Dead Man’s Party – The Oingo Boingo Tribute
• For the 1990’s: Green Today – A Tribute to Green Day, No Duh – The Ultimate No Doubt / Gwen Stefani Concert Tribute Experience and The Joshua Tree – A Tribute to U2

For foodies, the New Year’s Eve Block Party will feature gourmet food truck grub from: Bakery Truck (desserts), Dos Chinos (Latin-Asian fusion), A Bite Truck (California fusion), Baconmania (bacon-inspired dishes), Dogzilla (gourmet hot dogs), White Rabbit (Filipino-fusion), Piaggio On Wheels (Argentinean), Garlicscapes (garlic-inspired dishes), Ragin Cajun (Cajun), Macho Nacho (gourmet nachos), Me So Hungry (gourmet sliders and hamburgers), The Burnt Truck (gourmet sliders), Shortstop BBQ (BBQ fare) and The Lime Truck (fresh California cuisine).

The NYE Bash Demolition Derby will bring the fun of mass destruction for the adventurous types and the free Vegas-style games will offer revelers a chance to test their luck.

At midnight, everyone can enjoy as the OC Fair lights up the night sky with a pyrotechnic celebration to welcome in the New Year.

Tickets are currently available at pre-sale discounts of General $37.50 and VIP $75. For those avid summer Fairgoers, a Block Party admission plus 2013 OC Fair Super Pass Combo is also available at a discounted $57.50. Prices will increase December 1 and the Super Pass combo is only available through December 20.

General admission includes access to the Block Party with standing-room-only tribute band performances, unreserved general admission seating at the NYE Bash Demolition Derby, Vegas-style games with free prizes and access to food trucks, cash bars and other food and beverage options (food and drink prices vary). A VIP ticket offers all the same access as General admission plus complimentary parking, access to a VIP lounge with a private bar serving premium liquor and specialty cocktails, two drink tickets, party favors, hors d’oeuvres, a reserved premium seat at the NYE Bash Demolition Derby and a ticket to return in the summer for the 2013 OC Fair. Group general admission discounts are also available.

Admission and parking can be purchased online at ocfair.com/blockparty or from the onsite Box Office on a limited-time basis (visit ocfair.com/blockparty for the days and hours).

The OC Fair & Event Center is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, please visit ocfair.com, become a fan on Facebook.com/OCFair, or follow at twitter.com/ocfair.

Note:  Above is a Press Release from the OC Fair — Nibbles of Tidbits LOVES this event and we hope to see YOU at the OC Fair’s New Year’s Eve Block Party this year.  It’s a local party where there’s much to do and it really feels like a comfortable Block Party. 🙂

It’s another Fullerton find for me — I love The Olde Ship‘s interior and real Pub feel.

The Olde Ship British Pub & Restaurant is British owned and operated since 1993, but a first for me and it’s my kind of place.  I like the menu, lighting, friendliness, unique seating and Fish & Chips and want to try more.  Pictured below is the Whitby Platter with Cod and Shrimp.

A toast to how hip it is inside.

Churchill’s Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding is pictured at top and Soup of the Day below.

It was Broccoli Cheddar Soup and will be Award Winning Clam Chowder next time.

Thar-be another The Olde Ship in Santa Ana that’s grand and offers live entertainment.

I’m glad to ‘finally see the brilliance’ and now light-up for a line-up of Starters to try soon.

Under the boardwalk, we’ll be having some fun — At the Redondo Beach Pier, people walking above.  Fish Markets and Old-Time Arcades, people falling in love.  I’m grateful to be reminded of the magic that’s there and hope to return to experience more soon.  There’s so much to do.

And much more to eat under the boardwalk around the Redondo Beach Pier.

Many things I love like Crab and Lobster, but we weren’t so excited about the Sea Urchin.

Others were eating ’em up, after a breaking of its shell and a quick rinse of water.

Several fresh Oyster types were available to be shucked and consumed.

The offerings are varied and seem endless — Pick something, have it cooked and eat outside.

Free cooking — Broiled, fried or otherwise.

Smelt — I remember my Mom serving them for dinner when I was a kid and I liked them.

We opted for Ceviche this day — There are so many choices above and under the boardwalk.

Ceviche, Tortillas and a giant Pacifico on the patio with much more to go.

One of my favorite Old-Time Arcades is here near the Pier.

We had a blast with $20 — Its old-time prices go with its nostalgic experience.

Mostly old-fashioned games meet a few worthy new ones — Didn’t catch the Candy though.

Caught a Jawbreaker that escaped during its retrieval and bounced down the boardwalk. 🙂

Like some newer Arcades, tickets are earned towards prizes.

We chose Surprise Boxes — The sampling above wasn’t too bad.  I can use the basting brush.

This day we also walked along the shore from Hermosa Beach to Manhattan Beach (and back), ultimately to El Torasco, a long-time favorite Mexican restaurant of mine, and then barely made it back to Hermosa before the sun went down — A beautiful day indeed!

Whole Foods Market Newport Beach came along just in time to elevate the Special Menu (below) — It’s an incredible store and where I bought the best of the best ingredients for a “You Pick, I Prepare” Dinner.  And I thank Whole Foods Market for its $100 Gift Card towards all.  Though this post is partially sponsored, I will always tell it like it is, yo yo yo. 😉

What would you pick?  Remember Slam Books?  What’s your favorite FOOD?  Fill-in the blanks.

My answers would be very different than these, with all due respect — That’s all I’m gonna say.  Okay, I might heckle about it later.  My Slam Menu picks would likely include King Crab Legs and a Soufflé.  I got off easy with the Special Menu above, though still managed to create fodder for ‘The Bad’ segment of Nibbles of Tidbits.  It’s always a learning experience.

Most turned out well.  The Shrimp for the Shrimp Cocktail was sweet and tender, not tough, and I thank the Whole Foods Market Seafood Department for deveining them for me.  It saved a lot of time and it’s a job I certainly don’t love.  Now that’s some super service!

The Split Pea and Ham Soup (made without a recipe) fortunately turned out tasty as all get out.  And the Parmesan Crisps are what’s best about this Caesar Salad — It’s Shaved Parmesan Cheese that’s cooked in a skillet on medium (without oil) until golden brown and crisp.  I always add ’em instead of Croutons.  And then there’s the Meatloaf… Meatloaf, really?

It’s mostly ironic, since I never liked it.  Growing up I’d ask what’s for dinner and when my Mom would laughingly say “your favorite” I knew it was Meatloaf.  She knew it was the opposite of my favorite.  And here I am faced with it again.  I got past it by converting my true favorite Meatball Recipe into a Meatloaf, and served it with a Sauce made of Tomatoes, Roasted Garlic and Caramelized Onions (puréed).  If I think of a Meatloaf as a giant Meatball, I’m better.

I’ve made plenty of Twice Baked/Re-Stuffed Potatoes in my life and most have turned out perfectly fine, but these didn’t.  Isn’t that terrific when it matters.  They tasted good, but had too much Cheese (with Butter), which made all runny and oily.  Wouldn’t you know it?!

The Carrots were a bonus — They were roasted in the oven with Sweet Onions and Garlic.

And then there’s the Banana Cream Pie aka Banana Pot Pie, as dubbed by the mystery guest.  The Pie didn’t set and I’m not sure why.  Cornstarch has been problematic for me lately and will opt for Flour next time.  A Chocolate Bundt Cake from a mix was made for backup.

It was suggested that the Banana Cream ‘Pudding’ be spooned over the Chocolate Cake.

All was not lost.  Nothing was lost.  It was all good — And the time was especially great.

Thanks Whole Foods Market Newport Beach — I look forward to seeing you again.

Oh what a night, early September back in ’33 — As I recall it ended much too soon.

We stepped back into the 1930’s for a Progressive Dinner on the Queen Mary — A delight!

It started in the Observation Bar with Canapés and Specialty Drinks, progressed to Chelsea’s Chowder House & Bar for Appetizers and more Specialty Drinks, then continued at Sir Winston’s Restaurant for a most incredible Dinner with Wine, and concluded in the Tea Room for Dessert, Coffee and Digestifs.  The MENU is posted above — Enlarge for a better view.

In the Observation Bar we joined fellow Food Bloggers and various media peeps for Canapés.

Cheese, Figs, Cherries, Almonds, Pomegranate, Honeycomb and Lavosh.

We liked the Brie & Kiwi Canapé best, but mostly anticipated the rest.

My scarf matched our first Specialty Drink called a Purple something?!  Don’t ask too many questions, as some things became purple-hazy progressively.  Each drink was just so pretty.

Pay no attention to the woman behind the purple, she’s excited to explore the Queen Mary.

On to Chelsea Chowder House & Bar with Stasha of Coastal Food & Wine and several others.

Stop two of four for sophisticated appetizers and new colorful drinks.

A favorite was the Bass Ale Braised Short Ribs with Caramelized Shallots and Natural Jus.

Also pictured, the Maryland Style Crab Cake Slider and Truffle Fries.

Chef Todd Henderson made all shown and described on the menus above — Thank you!

View on the way to Sir Winston’s Restaurant, stop three and having an amazing time.

Up the stairs for the best yet to come.

Tables set in a historic place for a refined meal amongst the most discerning.

I wanted to do it all again, before the first bite of Beef Wellington — Oh what a meal.

Truffle Sauce, Sea Scallops and Wild Mushroom Chevre Strudel (with my sweetie Freis), oh my.

And it was on to the Tea Room for Dessert and farewells.

It was hard to pace myself throughout, as I wanted everything available at each stop.

Bravo and thank you very much — Nothing lacked this evening but my capacity.

It was an honor to be aboard the Queen Mary and nice to meet Commodore Everette Hoard.

He knows a great deal about the ship — Say hello to him onboard.

I’m told the food is supposed to be better at ballparks these days, but typical food stands still overcharge and barely suffice — Though that’s the case, we still had fun and the Angels won.

We made the best of it by having the price of a 12-pack in one giant can. 😉

Cheers to a striking day!  It was a hot one too.  Good thing we had it made in the shade.

I’m still recuperating from the amazing FOOD and (mostly the drinks) to begin to recap our dinner in its entirety.  Queen Mary reps and staff were most hospitable to a group of media and bloggers as they lead us through a 3-Hour Progressive Dinner that started in the Observation Bar and ended in the Tea Room.  Check back to see what happened in between.

It was quite the send off — I was happy to be on the Queen Mary, since it’s been a long time.

And all got better as we trekked on to Chelsea’s Chowder House & Bar and Sir Winston’s.

Have you seen, tried or received an Edible Arrangement?  They’re sure nice, but not cheap.

If you’re delivered one, save its bare bones — My Mom did and prepared them to live again.  The frame of an Edible Arrangement is basically a pot with a foam insert and plastic skewers.

Just cut and ADD FRUIT for an anytime array.

See here for ideas, buy one for its eventual bones or assemble a kit with craft store materials.

Chef Bailee and Lexi of Kids in the Kitchen created a fruit bouquet for a family birthday party, but didn’t want to be seen on camera this day due to teenage makeup concerns — Well, okaaaay then.  They enjoyed crafting it, an outcome sought most.  And it’s tasty too!

  Why not make it a family project?  You can come out now Lexi. 🙂

Have you been to the Tap Shack yet?  It’s in Newport Beach where The Arches once occupied and has only been open a couple months.  I miss The Arches, but appreciate many aspects of the Tap Shack.  Starting off, any spot with an outdoor patio is a winner to me.  Crab Cake?

The Tap Shack NB takes advantage of the large patio and cues from the Tap House HB.

The MENU impressed me secondly.  It’s sophisticated and extensive — I wanted everything.

We tried (top down) the Golden Crab Cakes, Grilled Artichoke and Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip.

Dispense Beer from 1 (or more) of 8 self-pouring taps — It’s one of the coolest things.

You’re given a Beer key which activates the tap and charges per ounce.

You don’t have to wait for a Beer here — We like that, unless there’s a long line. 😉

The Tap Shack Newport Beach joins in on the Taco Tuesday offerings with $1.50 Tacos.

And during Happy Hour all appetizers are 50% off — It’s the best time to try a lot.

All appetizers (as listed) appeal to me — The Taphouse Prime Sliders are pictured above.  They were my friend’s favorite and I liked the Grilled Artichoke best, though it could’ve been cooked a little longer.  We highly value the portion sizes, but the unclaimed favorites seemed bland.

And I don’t care what some people say about it, I like the Lobster Zone Game.

Catch a Lobster and they’ll cook it for you — $2.00 to play.  Different to see and amusing.

Self-pouring Beer taps are inside and out — Where’s our server?  Wait… Ta daaa!  Awesome.

The Tap Shack NB is a fine sports and entertainment option in the neighborhood.  Just overlook the typos on the menu (or laugh at them) and commend the otherwise refined, lengthy selection.  There’s much more that sounds good to try.  We’ll go back to the shack.

Until next year… Check out the stats released (below) by The OC Fair & Event Center Communications Department — The 2012 Orange County Fair was a success on many levels.

The 2012 OC Fair Rolls Up The Welcome Mat For Its More Than 1.3 Million Guests

The 2012 OC Fair wrapped up another successful Fair season by welcoming 1,357,355 Fairgoers for 23 days and nights of “Home Sweet Home” with food, fun and farm animals.

“In my first year as CEO, this Fair has exceeded all expectations. Every year, the Orange County Fair manages to deliver a high quality event and this one was no exception. Of course, we owe it all to our loyal guests, all 1.3 million of them, who make the OC Fair the success it is,” said Jerome Hoban, OC Fair & Event President & CEO.

Fairgoers came to the OC Fair for outstanding entertainment as the Pacific Amphitheatre saw a record-breaking year with its highest-grossing summer concert series yet that also featured 7 sold-out performances, including Young The Giant/The Steelwells, Steel Pulse/The Dirty Heads, Earth, Wind & Fire, Tears For Fears, Victoria Justice/Max Schneider, Heart, and Duran Duran. Music fans also came out in masses for rocking tribute and original bands booked in The Hangar, which broke records with its highest attended season since opening in 2010. Sellout shows included Journey Unauthorized – A Salute to the Music of Journey, “Led Zeppelin Live” Starring Heartbreaker, Purple Reign – THE Prince Tribute Show, Queen Nation – A Tribute to the Music of Queen, Wild Child – A Jim Morrison Celebration, The English Beat/The Originalites, Which One’s Pink? – The Best of Pink Floyd, Moonwalker – The Reflection of Michael Jackson, Dead Man’s Party – The Oingo Boingo Tribute, and Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez. And not to be left out, adrenaline junkies packed the Action Sports Arena for X-treme Freestyle Moto-X, Bull Riding (Saturday, July 21 show) and five nights of demolition derby which featured traditional derby cars and motorhomes as well as a special all-female derby that raised around $6,000 for the OC Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for The Cure.

Fairgoers arrived at the 2012 OC Fair hungry and left with bellies full of deep-fried concoctions, grilled wonders and bacon masterpieces. Chicken Charlie’s top “Totally Fried” item was the new Deep-Fried PB&J (9,000 sold) and at his new Pineapple Express, some 10,000 pineapples were used. Bacon A-Fair’s Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Legs flew off the grill 7,500 times while 100,000 pieces of Chocolate-Covered Bacon tantalized sweet tooths. The new Biggy’s Meat Market satisfied everyone’s inner caveman by selling approximately 3,900 17-inch Big Ribs, which amounted to more than 10,000 pounds of bone and grilled meat. Some 30 percent of Big Ribs sold were packed up and taken back to the mancave by Fairgoers with the largest to-go order at 20 massive ribs. Of the more traditional Fair food items, Juicy’s sold more than 60,000 turkey legs and enough corn dogs to stretch 3.5 miles end-to-end.

Fairgoers also looked to save on their trip to the Fair by taking advantage of the daily opportunities for free or discount admission. More than 382,298 Fairgoers took advantage of the free or discount admission promotions and of that number, 79,774 generous Fairgoers took advantage of free admission and a carnival ride offered with donations of canned food, children’s books, clothing and school supplies during the four We Care Wednesday drives. Plus, 13,899 Fairgoers in total scooped up a Super Pass (featuring 23 days of admission).

The annual Jr. Livestock Auction welcomed increased numbers of animals sold and money raised with 323 cattle, sheep, rabbits, swine, turkeys and goats selling for more than $310,000, which benefits the youth participants in local 4-H and FFA programs.

In celebration of the 2012 theme of “Home Sweet Home,” 12,177 active duty and veteran military were welcomed to the Fair for free through the Salute to Heroes daily promotion to enjoy the Fair and view the new Let Freedom Ring Exhibit and nightly Salute to Heroes presentation in The Hangar. (Press Release by OC Fair & Event Center and photos by me)

More interesting numbers from 23 days at the 2012 OC Fair:

• Centennial Farm welcomed 27 piglets, 1 Jersey calf and 3 kids (baby goats)
• Of the 4,597 competitors that submitted more than 12,900 hand-woven blankets, homemade cookies, stunning photography, exquisite woodworking and more creative entries in the various competitions and contests, the Fair awarded more than 2,940 people with award ribbons and more than $33,220 in cash awards
• The new Bacon A-Fair sold 20,000 pounds of bacon either beer-battered, dipped in chocolate or wrapped around turkey legs, hot dogs and stuffed jalapenos
• Fairgoers consumed 300 cans of Spam and 5,000 orders of Deep-Fried Cereal from Chicken Charlie’s and 600 Red Velvet Funnel Cakes from Toucan Funnel Cakes
• Potato-loving guests kept Tasti Chips busy cutting 35,000 pounds of potatoes; Biggy’s Meat Market with 20,000 pounds of potatoes and Juicy’s with 50,000 pounds of curly fries and 39,000 pounds of waffle fries
• 48,125 thrill-seekers took unlimited enjoyment of rides in the two carnivals on the Unlimited Ride Wristband days (Wednesdays and Thursdays)
• During We Care Wednesdays, Fairgoers donated 43.5 tons of canned food, 59,353 books, 113,310 items of clothing and thousands of school supplies
• The 45 showings of the new Salute to Heroes presentation, shown nightly in The Hangar, used 8,858 pyrotechnics to thank our country’s service men and women 

The 2012 OC Fair, themed Home Sweet Home featured 23 days of food, rides, exhibits, animals, music, action sports and fun, as well as the Super Pass, Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena. (Related posts are here)

The OC Fair & Event Center, home to the OC Fair, is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, please visit ocfair.com, become a fan at Facebook.com/OCFair, or follow them at twitter.com/ocfair.

Brunch at Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment aka Italian Grill and Jazz Club.

I’ve liked Spaghettini for years, but hadn’t experienced their Brunch.

Thanks to a friend who won Brunch for Two at Spaghettini’s, I got to partake.

Spaghettini’s Brunch is $49.95 per person for (1) off the menu Entrée and Buffet.

And Bottomless Champagne — Something I always appreciate in a Brunch.

Pictured are just a few of the Entrée Choices (above) and Buffet offerings (below).

It’s nice they don’t overwhelm with too many options, instead a well-prepared, fine amount.

The quality, taste and selection of all made me happy.

Unlimited Champagne with hours to enjoy the Buffet and Entrée makes for a great Sunday.

I particularly liked the Artichoke Dip (below) — It’s much tastier than it looks here.

On to Dessert — Again, not all offerings are shown here.  There’s a lot more.

One bummer about Spaghettini’s Brunch is… No food will be packaged to-go.

I guess Spag’s doesn’t want you to mow down the Buffet to take your Entrée home for later.

That’s what I’d do (written above), but instead I have to think to myself… I don’t want to load up on the Buffet so to save room for my Entrée, since I can’t take any of it home.  Darn.

See MENU at top to learn more about the Sea Bass, Salmon and Sirloin Steak revealed herein.

The Wave 94.7 broadcasts live from Spaghettini during Sunday Brunch and some danced to the smooth jazz playing in the lounge.  In a Wave giveaway, my friend won the basket above.