A couple of weeks ago I shared some of my favorite Orange County restaurants that are currently doing takeout or delivery, and this week I’m spreading the restaurant love to our second home, Palm Springs.  The desert is special to us for so many reasons, and the food scene is certainly somewhere at the top of that list.  We’re so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing restaurants every time we’re back in town, and we can’t wait to be dining at all of these spots again.  (Also, make sure to check out this site selling some adorable merch to help support some of my favorite small businesses in the area.)

Dead or Alive Bar – A favorite little bar that’s close to our house, Dead or Alive is our favorite stop for a glass of wine after dinner before heading home for the night.  It’s dark and cozy and always has a great selection of new-to-me wines to try and love.  Right now, they’re selling bottles or curated boxes of 6 bottles for curbside pickup or delivery – because who wants to stock up at the grocery store these days?

El Mirasol – This is probably the Mexican restaurant we frequent the most when we’re in Palm Springs because it’s near our house (same area as Dead or Alive Bar and Kreem) and also because the food and margaritas are delicious.  They’re offering a full menu of Mexican specialties and house margaritas, and if you’re gonna order from them, make sure you throw in a bottle of their Diabla sauce – it’s SO good.

FARM – Hit up FARM during normal (non-Covid) times for a full selection of French-inspired crepes, omelettes, sandwiches, and specialties daily and prix fixe dinner menus on Fridays and Saturdays.  Currently, they’re offering a narrowed-down takeout menu with a couple of our favorites like the Chicken BLT (hers) and the Andouille Omelette (his).

Happy Sushi – No better way to spend a Friday night in quarantine than on the couch with a heaping bowl of ramen, am I right?  Happy Sushi is our go-to in town for casual sushi, sake, and ramen – yum!

Kreem – Kreem is just about the cutest artisanal ice cream and coffee shop located right on Palm Canyon Drive.  The owner is always crafting up must-try new flavors (think: Maple Whiskey Waffle) as well as delicious classics like vanilla bean and a few vegan options as well.  (You can always find the selection on Kreem’s Instagram stories.)  Right now you can call ahead to order pints for curbside pickup because store-brand ice cream at a time like this?  Not a chance.

Las Casuelas Terraza – This is another one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in town, and during normal times, it’s a huge, upbeat, entertaining spot with live music and delicious food and drinks.  You can currently find them on apps like Postmates and Uber Eats when demand allows.

Melvynn’s at the Ingleside Inn – Melvynn’s is always a staple for us when we’re in town for weekend brunches, Saturday night steaks, or my all-time favorite lobster pot pie.  Right now they’re offering a limited menu for takeout, and I’m absolutely positive it’s all delicious.

Nature’s Health Food & Cafe – This is a great option for a healthy breakfast to go.  (Because even in quarantine sometimes we need a little health food.)

NYPD – Our usual go-to for pizza in Palm Springs is Brickworks Bistro, but they are sadly shut down for the time being.  We’ve also tried and loved NYPD though, and they’re currently open for takeout and delivery of their seriously yummy pizzas, pastas, and salads.

Ruben & Ozzy’s – This is one of the first Palm Springs restaurants that I really fell in love with.  They’re serving up seafood dishes from tacos to fettuccini all prepared right behind the bar.  When life is back to normal around here, you HAVE to check out Ruben & Ozzy’s (and snag a seat at the bar), but for now, you can grab their full menu and daily specials to go.

Sandfish – If you’re craving some seriously yum high end sushi, this would be your spot.  Eric and I have only been to Sandfish once, but it did not disappoint – we loved every single thing we ordered.

Smoke Tree BBQ – Oh man it’s been too long since I’ve had good bar-b-que, and Smoke Tree BBQ is GOOD BBQ.  The pulled pork, the brisket, the cornbread, obviously the mac-n-cheese…seriously, it’s all good.

Snow & Crab – Just one word for you from this Louisiana girl: crawfish.  Well, and crab legs, shrimp, lobster tails, and SO much more.  We ordered a few different seafood favorites through their “Create your own meal” option, and it was all SO good.  The spice, the flavor, and the quality of the seafood were all on point.  (Tip: Order a little more than you think you’ll need – the portions were on the small side.)

xoxo

Hello, friends, and how is everyone doing in quarantine?  Eric and I are holding up just fine and haven’t managed to kill each other yet!  (I kid, we know how extremely lucky we are to be safe, healthy, and still working from home right now.)  We’re cooking tons of meals at home but also still trying to support local restaurants who need our help more than ever right now.  Our restaurants are such a big part of what makes any city feel like home, so today I’m sharing some of our favorite local spots that are currently open for takeout or delivery.

And I’d love to have this list grow even more!  If you’re local, feel free to comment below or email me with some of the favorites that you think should be added here.  No matter what city you’re in, if you’re looking to support your favorite restaurants, there’s no time like the present to “like” them, share them, Yelp them.  Grab takeout for your family or call and donate meals to our local heroes on the front lines or families that may be in need.  Spread a little love now, and it won’t be long before we’re all back at our favorite spots.

Bagelmania – This one is always a favorite weekend breakfast takeout spot for us.  They’ve got a ton of baked goods, delicious coffee drinks, and as the name would suggest, plenty of bagel options.  I keep it pretty simple with a tomato and cheese melt on a jalapeno bagel – so good.

Carnitas La Villa – This is my favorite “hole in the wall” takeout Mexican food near us because the beans are my fave and the homemade salsa is delish.  I’m partial to the shrimp meals, but you really can’t go wrong here.

Eat Chow – Eat Chow has a bunch of yummy comfort dishes (hello, cheesy tots) and some of my favorite salads in all of the land.  Seriously, I’m pretty sure I’ve tried every single salad at Eat Chow, and they’re all amazing.  (It’s actually one of the only restaurants where I can order a salad with no regrets.)  If you’re not feeling a salad though, highly recommend the crispy tacos or The Three Amigos.  (Side note – I have not tried their breakfast, but friends of ours love it.)

El Ranchito – El Ranchito is pretty much a Mexican food staple around here with more than a dozen locations around Orange County, but the Costa Mesa location is definitely our favorite.  Each restaurant is offering slightly different menus right now, but you can count on their signature dishes, mini bean and cheese burritos (my fave) by the dozen, and their margaritas to go.

Gulfstream – Gulfstream is offering a VERY abbreviated menu for takeout, but I had to include it on the list for one very important reason: the Crispy Chicken Sandwich.  It’s not what you might think of ordering from Gulfstream, but Hillstone Restaurants in general usually have pretty yummy fried chicken sandwiches.  That said, you can also grab one locally from R+D Kitchen at Fashion Island (also get the Dip Duo) and Bandera in CDM.

Irassae Sushi – We love going to Irassae and sitting at the sushi bar during normal times.  To be honest, we’re not normally into takeout sushi and never do it when restaurants are open, but last week, we were both craving sushi and decided to go for it.  No regrets – everything was fresh and delicious.

Jan’s Health Bar – Jan’s is always a first thought for me when I want healthy food fast, and now is no exception.  Their salads and protein bowls are just clean, healthy deliciousness, and their tuna is a definite favorite of mine.

Las Barcas – This is Eric’s favorite “hole in the wall” takeout Mexican spot, and I’ll agree with him – it’s pretty good.  They now have an outdoor speaker system so that they can call out orders that are ready while everyone waits outside or in their car.

Lucci’s Italian American Deli – Lucci’s is part restaurant, part market, so in addition to your takeout order, you can also grab deli meats and cheeses, cooking oils and spices, sodas and wine, and pastas to make at home.  Our favorite takeout order?  The family-sized bucket of spaghetti easily serves at least 6-8 meals, comes with garlic bread, and is so delicious.  (And right around $14.)

Red O Restaurant – This may have been my favorite takeout we’ve ordered during this time so far because it made for really delicious leftovers.  We ordered one of the Family Fiesta Packs that they are currently offering with two different types of meat, beans and rice, fajita vegetables, guac and salsa, tortillas, and dessert.  (Oh, and two rolls of toilet paper!)  Bonus, the Red O is offering market essentials for those who want to avoid the grocery store.  We picked up a dozen eggs with our dinner order so that Eric could make meat and eggs with the leftovers that week.

Sessions West Coast Deli – Legit, my favorite sandwiches around.  Or ever, I’m not sure.  Breakfast, lunch or dinner, if you’re feeling like a unique, filling, and probably slightly messy sandwich, this is your spot.  I love the Tuna Melt, Meddock Melee, and every single breakfast sandwich.

Sol Grill – Sol Grill also falls in the category of ultimate comfort food.  Check out the meatballs and that lobster ravioli in the first photo – yum!  (I add a little balance with the Rocket Salad, add shrimp.)  They also make a killer sangria, so if you’re going for comfort food, you might as well add some sangria or a bottle of wine.  Cheers!

Spaghetti Bender – The Spaghetti Bender is one of my absolute favorites for simple, yummy Italian food.  (Think: red and white checkered tablecloths and house wine by the carafe when they’re open for dining.)  There are a ton of options, but I never really stray from the spaghetti with meat sauce – simple and delicious.  And if you’re gonna order from the Bender, you have to add on their house soup and salad.  The salad dressing is heavenly, and you can save the soup for another meal.

The Corner – This is one of my favorite spots that’s also pretty close to us.  It may sound crazy, but the mashed potato taco is seriously so good.  (I usually get one of each of the tacos – one short rib, one mashed potato.)  Also, I haven’t tried one for myself yet, but I’ve heard rave reviews about the twice-baked potato.  And if you’re feeling like a cocktail, their skinny margaritas are always super fresh.

xoxo

P.S. – Stay tuned for a restaurant giveaway on Instagram today!

Since moving to Orange County, I’ve done my best to find ALL the places, shop ALL the shops.  And if you talk to Eric, he’ll tell you I’ve done a pretty good job of it.  (#Guilty)  But last week during a rare super rainy day in Newport, I discovered the Mecca, friends.  And repeat after me: Mi Place is THE place.

They’ve been around for 40 years, and these ladies seriously know their stuff.  I got to meet one of the owners Mary, and she’s a serious doll.  The shop is filled with designer bags, jeans that you won’t find everywhere, unique sweaters and tops, the sweetest furs and faux furs, and jewelry that spans from diamonds to unique fashion pieces.  The brands are legit.  We’re talking L’Agence, Alexander Wang, Proenza Schouler, Jonathan Simkhai, Barbara Bui, Nan Fusco, and so many more.  Regardless of hiding out from the rain, I could have roamed around this little shop in the Corona Del Mar Plaza ALL day long.

And then I packed the dressing room full of goodies and played some good old-fashioned dress up.  You guys, the calfhair leopard jacket of my dreams, the distressed grey jeans I didn’t even know I needed, and the black pointed-toe booties that I literally wanted to run out of the store in.  (But I figured that might be frowned upon.)

If you’ve got your mind set on a shiny new bag or special piece or need a little gift hint for the “Santa” in your life, you absolutely have to stop in at Mi Place.  And chat it up with Mary because she rocks.  And if you live out of town, don’t fret, girl.  Check out the Instagram, find something you love, and give the gals a call.  They’ll ship wherever, and you’ll open up your new favorite find.

Happy shopping!

Photos thanks to Katie Stuart

Brought to you by Mi Place Boutique

If you were following along on the good old ‘Gram this past weekend, then you probably noticed quite a few snaps from the Hyatt Huntington Beach.  Because we can never stop adding on projects for our house, Eric and I decided that we wanted to add wainscoting to a couple more walls in our living room and bar area.  Sounds simple enough.  Once the wood panels are up, then starts the sanding, bonding, and painting, and suddenly the entire house is covered in a thin layer of dust and SO many fumes.

So as a sort of early Valentine’s Day (and a definite way to keep from losing our minds), we used our best evacuation route and headed down the street to one of our favorite hotels, the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach.  We’ve stayed here once before for Eric’s birthday, but this time we brought along the pup and settled in for four nights.  So just in time for Valentine’s Day, I’m rounding up five things to love about the Hyatt Huntington Beach.

Dog-Friendly Hotel:  Like I said, we took Louise along with us, and the Hyatt was more than accommodating.  When we checked in, there was a dog bed, food and water bowls, and even a few toys in our room for Weeze which was such a nice surprise for this less-than-prepared dog mom.  She loved exploring around the property and was able to hang with us on a patio area where we had margaritas on Saturday.  Plus, she got so much love from strangers and plenty of beach walks while we were there.  Which brings me to…

Bridge to the Beach:  I always talk about this in my Instagram stories while I’m there, but it really is SO convenient that there’s a bridge from the Hyatt property across Pacific Coast Highway to the beach.  It’s the only hotel in the area that has one, and it made getting out on those beach walks so quick and easy.  And trust me, I needed the exercise after…

Pete’s Sunset Grille – If you’re staying at the Hyatt or just live somewhere around Huntington Beach, you have to check out Pete’s.  Their spicy margaritas (made seriously spicy with jalapeno-infused tequila) are my favorite of any place around here, and their Barrel Bowls are my jam.  (Think coconut rice, broccolini, protein of your choice, a fried egg…)  I’m not really a fish taco gal, but Eric and a bunch of our friends love them here.  And if you’re still hungry…

Watertable:  We ate at Watertable the last time that we stayed at the Hyatt, and we loved it.  So this time, we made sure to go back.  Twice.  In a row.  It really is that good.  On Sunday night, we shared a bunch of appetizers (Get the meatballs!  and the fries!), and on Monday night, we went with favorites from the entree list.  Eric went with the Chilean sea bass,  and I had the Branzino – both were delicious.

So Many Outdoor Spaces:  We’re super lucky to live in a place that has beautiful weather most of the year, so why not spend as much time outside as possible?  The pool area (there are a couple, but I prefer the quieter, more adult-friendly one) is huge with tons of seating and a yummy lunch menu.  There are fire pits that we sat by at night, and Weeze loved roaming around the big open grass areas.

Overall, we had a wonderful stay and didn’t want to leave!  If you’re looking for a really great place to stay in the town that I call home, you really can’t go wrong with the Hyatt Huntington Beach.  Now it’s back to reality with my two favorite Valentines – Eric and Weeze, of course.  Hope everyone has a great week!

xoxo

Oh, ho, ho, the holidays, y’all, and I am ready.  We’re kicking things off with our annual Friendsgiving festivities tonight and hopping on a plane to Louisiana tomorrow morning to spend Thanksgiving week with my family.  It’s my hands-down favorite time of year, but it can also be a stressful time if you let it.  Travel, work responsibilities, and party after party can really take a toll on a gal’s health, ya know?  And there’s no better way to ruin my favorite season than by getting all sick and exhausted and pooped out.  So today I’m sharing a few ways that I’m focusing on my health this holiday season.  (And don’t get it twisted, I still fully intend to live my best life in the weeks ahead – bring on ALLLL the food!)  But here goes anyway…

Drink Your Juice (and Eat a Veggie or Two) – And the candied yam variety probably doesn’t count.  We all know that the holidays can get a little out of hand with the meals, the treats, the cocktails, you name it, but it’s important for me to remember that holidays or not, my body needs a little actual nourishment regularly.  And you can call me crazy, but I’m totally one of those juice enthusiast people.  When I start to feel sick, I usually book it to Juice Served Here for their Hot Shot and Turmeric shots and the Pipe Cleaner juice.  Last I checked, loading up on ginger never hurt anybody.  (And bonus, this week all of their juices are just $5.)  My mom has this theory that whatever you believe in will work, and I gotta say, she’s probably right.  If you build it, they will come, y’all.

All About the Essential Oils – Call me crazy twice, but I’m also a huge believer in essential oils, and doTERRA is my oil drug of choice.  My friend Corrine introduced me a year or so ago, and I’ve been hooked ever since.  Lemon, lavender, Breathe (amazing for snoring husbands), and Peppermint are in constant rotation around here, but my favorite by far is On Guard.  It smells amazing (especially around this time of year) and is my go-to when I’m feeling a bit under the weather.  I’m constantly grabbing the oil and also love the softgels.

Get Some Exercise – Well, this one is groundbreaking.  I know, it’s not rocket science, but sometimes when I’m being pulled in 100 different directions the last thing on my mind is fitting in a workout.  But 10 times out of 10, when I make the time and get a workout in, I’m 100% happy that I did.  I work out at Core Reform Pilates a few times a week (and have since wayyy back here) and normally take my wild ass puppy on long walks everyday.  We’ll be traveling a couple of times over the holidays, so I’m making it a goal for myself to get in so much walking.

And Some SLEEP – I’m pretty much always guilty of not getting enough sleep.  I’m a natural night owl, and let’s just say that mornings generally aren’t my jam.  (I get these genes from my dad.)  But sometimes in the real world, a girl’s gotta wake up early, so I’m making it a priority these days to get a bit more shuteye.  For a little nighttime help, I occasionally rely on Olly Restful Sleep Supplements or Dream Water – both work like a charm to relax and turn off my overactive mind.

Take a Little “Me” Time – As a blogger, the holidays can be an especially busy time for me.  End of year projects kick into high gear, the event invites are more frequent than any other time of year, and there are personal obligations on top of that.  But over the past couple of years, I’ve found that it’s so important to learn to say “no”.  I can run around from event to event, trying to please this company and that one, but in the end, no one wins because I’m burnt out and giving everything only half of my attention.  These days, I pick and choose my obligations and make sure to take a little “me”time.  My ultimate “me” time?  A good old fashioned bath, y’all.

And a Little More “Us” Time – What are the holidays if you’re not spending them with people you love?  I love the holidays – love, love them – and there’s nothing better than creating new holiday memories with family and friends.  I made a priority list for myself a while back, and it goes like this: my husband and my marriage, my family and friends (and pup), and then my blog and career and anything else.  It’s admittedly over-simplified here, but when I remember what’s important in life, I think it can do wonders for my mental health and overall happiness.  And don’t we all just want to be happy this holiday season?

xoxo

Photos thanks to Samantha Klose

Like I said, he’s my big brother.  And like many big brother / little sister relationships go, growing up we fought like cats and dogs.  Seriously, always on each other’s last nerves.  Even now, when I hear a couple of siblings arguing in the grocery store, I think, man, my parents must have been so annoyed with us.  Ha!  But he’s my big brother, so at the end of the day, he had my back, and I had his.

By the time we both graduated from high school and started college, we were buddies.  I guess it’s true what they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder.  So does no longer sharing a bathroom with your dirty older brother.  (Truth be told, I’m actually the messy one in this scenario, but that’s neither here nor there.)  We could actually hang out, relate to each other, and laugh with (or at) each other.

Through the years, though, something changed in Charlie.  He developed depression, and its side effects began to take over his thoughts and his life.  There were really good times and also some bad, but the good ones are the ones we hold onto.  The last time I saw my brother alive, it was Thanksgiving night of 2010.  We had dinner with the entire family, and then went to a local bar with my cousin Coby.  It was a really great night.  We laughed so much.  He was happy.  Happier than I’d seen him in a while.  And all was right in the world.

Charlie died six days later on December 1st, 2010.  He left behind beyond-loving parents and extended family, friends who filled a church with tears, and a sister with no more siblings on this Earth.  We’ve heard that the reason that he had such a great Thanksgiving is because he had already made his choice and was at total peace with it.  I can’t really understand that.  I will never understand the choice that he made, and in some ways, I’m happy that I can’t.  But for those out there who are dealing with similar feelings of darkness and despair, there is hope.  There is love.  There are SO many people around you who value your presence in this world.  SO many people who never want to fill a church to mourn your loss.

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and I thought it was time that I finally help share a little light and awareness for a cause that is so dear to me.  Next Wednesday, September 20th, I’ll be partnering with Kendra Scott for a Kendra Gives Back Party at Fashion Island.  20% of the proceeds from the event will go to the With Hope Foundation which aims to facilitate suicide prevention through mental health education.

If you’re in the Orange County area, I’d LOVE to see you there.  And if you’re not, you can still help support through your purchases.  Phone orders (with free shipping!) can be made during the event by calling 949-258-9285 – just have your favorite pieces from the site ready.

Phew, and there it is.  This blog post was admittedly about a week late and a long time in the making.  I didn’t really know where to start, what to say.  Sometimes I may not say the right thing, but at the end of the day I do know this.  I’m so grateful that I had 24 years with my brother, that I have amazing parents, family and friends and the most supportive husband that helped me through it, and that I have this space to share it with you guys.  And I thank you guys so much in advance for all of your support.

xoxo

Y’all, serious question here – does decorating a house from top to bottom for the first time ever really end?  Don’t get me wrong, our house has come a LOOONG way (and I’m so excited to share the before and after journey with you guys so soon), but it’s just these “finishing touches” that just keep lingering.  An empty shelf here, a missing rug there, and pretty much nothing hung on the walls…yet.

And then there’s the Palm Springs house which is currently in full decorating swing.  Basically, if you talk to me these days, I’ve got one thing on the brain: home decor.  So a few weeks ago I jumped at the chance to check out the brand new Villas Fashion Island community – I may not be in the market for a new apartment, but I’ll take all the home decor inspiration that I can get.

And guys, this place is pretty sweet.  They’ve really thought of everything, from the killer gym to the outdoor community pizza oven, the on-site cafe that serves wine to the five (yes, five) pools.  I mean, grab a glass of wine and throw a pizza into the outdoor pizza over?  Sign me up.  The model homes made me want to move right in, and I’ve since been on a serious hunt for that acrylic bar cart / table situation.  Tell me that bar table above isn’t serious goals!  Y’all, I NEED it, and so far, can’t find it.

Anywho, the moral of the story, if any of my friends are looking for some sweet new digs, well I’ve found ’em for ya.  But you have to promise to invite me over for the wine and pizza.

xoxo

Photos thanks to Taylor Cole

In yesterday’s post, I gushed a bit about a few reasons why I love where we live, but I’ve saved a couple of my favorite spots for today’s post.  Recently Eric and I did a 2-night stay-cation at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach for his birthday, and y’all, it was SO nice.  I’ve gotten to check out so many hotels and resorts over the past few years, but this one really was one for the books, having a little vacation in our own city, literally a few blocks away from our house.

When I first checked in, Eric was at work so I got to have a little girls’ spa and pool day with Miriam, Lydia, and Kathleen.  Not a bad way to kick things off, right?  While the cat’s away…  The Pacific Waters Spa at the Hyatt was so nice and relaxing, and if we hadn’t had lunch plans by the pool, we totally could have hung there all day, sipping champs and living our best robe lives.  I’m always a facial over a massage type of gal, so I had a Pacific Waters facial and seriously loved every minute of it.  I told Eric to keep the spa in mind for when my birthday rolls around.  Hint, hint.

After the spa we headed over to the pool and had an amazing lunch (nachos, hummus, crab cake sliders, fries, all of the things plus a little rosé, naturally) in a private cabana.  There are two pools on the property – one with a water slide that’s perfect for families and the one we went to that’s a bit more quiet – so there’s something for everyone.  The pool area was huge with so much space to accommodate guests.  Plus, you know, nachos – so you’re all set.

My favorite part of our stay was dinner with Eric for his birthday at Watertable.  Y’all, this place is so, SO good!  We tried out the hamachi crudo, filet with bacon jam, and the Chilean sea bass, and along with the vino, everything was delicious.  I also stopped in for a quick breakfast here (so many healthy options) and currently can’t get their Spirulina bowl out of my head.  And while we’re on the subject of bowls, you HAVE to try “The Barrel Bowl” at Pete’s Sunset Grille.  We ate at Pete’s (also on the Hyatt property) on our second night, and that ish did not disappoint.  We will definitely, definitely be back to both Watertable (have to check out the happy hour!) and Pete’s.

And then there was our room.  We had a one-bedroom suite that was super spacious, cozy, and just like home once I unpacked and made a giant mess.  Also, I’ll never say no to a huge balcony.  With our stay situated right near the end of our home construction, it was so nice to get out and have a change of scenery for a couple of days.  Whether you live here and could use a little getaway or you’ve been looking to visit Orange County, you definitely have to look into the Hyatt Regency in Huntington Beach – you won’t be disappointed.  Hope everyone has an amazing weekend!

xoxo

Eberjey coverup (c/o);  White Elephant bag (c/o);  Bracelets;  Hat;  Sunglasses Clutch;  Hat;  Sunglasses;  Sandals;  Spirulina Bowl – so good! Maxi dress;  Denim jacket;  Sandals;  Clutch;  Bracelets

When I really start to think about it, there are probably about a thousand reasons why I love where we live.  Obviously, living a couple of blocks from the beach is a crazy perk that I never really expected in my life and ranks somewhere around number one.  Getting my exercise along the Pacific Ocean is something that never gets old.  Other favorites would be the beautiful SoCal weather, palm trees everywhere, and Massimo’s Pizza a neighborhood away.  Seriously, I could always go for a slice, and this place is dee-lish.

I recently realized yet another reason I love this place though.  We seriously have some of the cutest little shops and boutiques around, and great new stores are popping up all the time.  It’s greaaat for my wardrobe, not so much for my wallet.  Sometime around Christmas I seriously fell for the shops and restaurants and overall cuteness at Lido Marina Village, and recently, I found a new favorite, favorite shop there.

Holy moly, have you guys been into Amour Vert?  Well if you haven’t, then this is a PSA to get your butt into that store.  It’s seriously the cutest.  The name means “green love” and they’re devoted to creating beautiful, sustainable fashion using American manufacturing, non-toxic dyes, and a zero waste mentality.  For every tee sold, Amour Vert plants a tree, and so far, they’ve planted over 130,000 of them.  Not bad, right?  Oh, and those tees?  The softest, comfiest, best tees that you’ll want to live in.

Besides the beyond yummy tees and this denim dress that I’ve just added to my cart, I love love all of Amour Vert’s silk pieces.  The fabric is a bit thicker than the average Joe’s silk which means that when I packed this dress recently for a trip to Palm Springs, it didn’t arrive like a crumpled, wrinkled mess.  Always a win in my book.  If you live in the Orange County area, then GO to this store, and if you don’t, allow me to direct you right over here to get your online shop on.  Have a great rest of your week, y’all!

xoxo

Photos thanks to Vincent Elejorde

AnQi – Admittedly, I don’t even know what to recommend here because a few friends and I enjoyed a whole tasting menu bonanza, and I just couldn’t leave it off the list.  If Asian fusion is your thing, then this is your next date-night spot.

Cafe Gratitude – For the vegans (and non-vegans really) looking for a new place to try.  Personally, I’m into the bowls.  And absolutely do not go here without getting a cocktail – the Skinny Margarita is fresh AF.

Canaletto – For me this is a go-to for a girls’ happy hour.  The bar area is light and bright with fireplaces lit in the winter time, and the menu includes glasses of wine, pizzas and flatbreads, and yummy Italian appetizers for a happy hour steal.

CUCINA Enoteca – This one is probably my favorite restaurant in Fashion Island, and there are a lot of good ones there.  (A bunch on this list, actually.)  Their polenta board is hands-down my favorite thing on the menu, but I also love the giant meatball, the burnt brussel sprouts, and the burrata jar, all for sharing.

Fig & Olive – There are a few of these around the US, but I feel like the Newport Beach location is so nice for apps and vino with the girls or a full-blown three hour (plus) lunch – I’ve done both.  The Crostinis are my main jam, and I really could just make a meal out of mixing and matching them.  (Check out the photo above.)

Fly N Fish Oyster Bar and Grill – Located right by the Newport Beach pier and the beach itself, this is the place I love to take out-of-town guests.  Every time we go to Fly N Fish, I wish so badly that I liked oysters, but sadly I just don’t.  Luckily I DO love clam chowder, and Fly N Fish has some of the best that I’ve tried.  I usually get it in a bread bowl with a glass of wine and call it a day.

Newport Landing – Located right in the Balboa Fun Zone, this place has amazing water views from their upstairs patio.  Dine downstairs for a fancier vibe, or head upstairs to the bar / patio area for something a bit more casual.  They also have a great happy hour.

Red O Restaurant – Two words for you: spicy margarita.  It’s actually called the Alacran Margarita, and it’s my fave.  They also have a great happy hour if you’re looking for some apps to go along with that marg.

SeaLegs Wine Bar – I mean, you had me at wine, but this place also has amazing food.  And what I love best is hands-down the brunch.  A sourdough breakfast sandwich or bananas foster French toast anyone?  Yes and yes.  Luckily for me, this place is a short bike ride from our house in Huntington Beach.

The Capital Grille – Our first choice for a steak in Orange County is definitely A Restaurant (sadly not participating in OC Restaurant Week), but this place is really good too.  It’s my usual way to get Eric to agree to Christmas shopping with me – dinner at The Capital Grille followed by a couple of hours of speed shopping during South Coast Plaza’s extended holiday hours.  It’s pretty much a tradition these days.

xoxo