Great Taste Magazine

2012 ZinMasters Cruise to Alaska
408.379.3853
www.zinfandel.org/default.asp?cid=1&n1=10&n2=1013

CuisineType : Winery

Set Sail from Seattle to Ketchikan, and cruise along the Inside Passage to Skagway Aboard Celebrity’s Infinity

This adventure not only gives you the opportunity to see wildlife, wilderness, mountains and glaciers, Alaska’s natural beauty, it also gives you a chance to enjoy attractions and museums that pertain to the Native American Culture and Gold Rush History that are unique to the area.Travel with Winery Hosts ZAP’s Cruise program offers an excellent opportunity to mix and mingle with leading Zinfandel winemakers who share their collective passion for great wine, food and camaraderie! While sailing, join with fellow ZAP travelers in the University of Zin seminars, tastings, winemaker dinners and more exclusive event.

For more information visit http://www.zinfandel.org/default.asp?cid=1&n1=10&n2=1013

Michael’s on Naples
5620 East 2nd St.,
CA-90803
5624397080
www.michaelsonnaples.com

CuisineType : Italian

Join us for Executive Chef David Coleman’s pork inspired wine dinner featuring a selection of exceptional Pinot Noir’s from the Russian River Valley and Central Coast. The wines were chosen for their earthy complex and rich flavors that highlight the succulent pork. Chef Coleman will browse the Santa Monica’s Farmer’s Market the day of the dinner and source the freshest vegetables to compliment each course.

Space is limited; For reservations 562.439.7080

$85/Person + tax & gratuity

ROCK’N FISH
422 S. Coast Hwy,
CA-92651
949-497-3113
www.rocknfishlb.com

CuisineType : American

ROCK’N FISH in Laguna Beach will be hosting a five-course dinner and Round Pond Winery pairing on Monday, May 21 at 7 p.m. The price is $60 per person, exclusing tax and gratuity. For reservations, please call ROCK’N FISH at 949-497-3113.

JackShrimp
2400 West Coast Hwy.,
California-92660
949-650-5577
jackshrimp.com/

CuisineType : Seafood

It’s time for Jackshrimp’s AnnualLive Crawfish, Crab & Shrimp boils! Wednesday 9th and Thursday 10th 5-9 pmSpiced up just right, live Louisiana Crawdads, Alaskan Pelio Crab, & Wild Gulf Shrimp!(crawfish is a live product and subject to availability)You can always call us!

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
2961 Michelson Drive,
CA-92612
949-252-8848
www.ruthschris.com

CuisineType : American, Fine Dining, Steak

Please join us for our “Sizzle, Swizzle, & Swirl” Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm in our bar and lounge. Our menu features $7 appetizers and sandwiches, $7 cocktails and martinis, $7 glasses of wine, and $3 domestic beers.<br

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
2961 Michelson Drive,
CA-92612
949-252-8848
www.ruthschris.com

CuisineType : American, Fine Dining, Steak

Please join us for our “Sizzle, Swizzle, & Swirl” Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm in our bar and lounge. Our menu features $7 appetizers and sandwiches, $7 cocktails and martinis, $7 glasses of wine, and $3 domestic beers.<br

Canyon Neighborhood Restaurant and Bar
5775 E. Santa Ana Canyon Rd.,
California-92807
(714) 283-1062
canyonrestaurantoc.com

CuisineType : Bar & Grill, Steak

FIRST COURSE
Caldo de Pollo
mexican homestyle chicken soup, crispy tortilla chips

SECOND COURSE
Grilled Hanger Steak and Guajillo Sauce
green rice, grilled corn relish, pico de gallo
- or -
Grilled Achiote Crusted Albacore
“Torta”guacamole, shredded lettuce, tomato, toasted egg bun, pickled red onions, housemade chips

DESSERT
Chocolate Orange Bread Pudding
chocolate orange caramel, sweet cream

$15.00

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz Carlton Drive,
CA-92629
(949) 240-2000
www.ritzcarlton.com/LagunaCulinaryDemos

CuisineType : Mexican

Mexicans believe the soul is fed by the aroma of food. Day of the Dead in Mexico is not a mournful commemoration, but a happy and colorful celebration where remembering those who have passed takes a lively, friendly expression. Join us for a fun celebration as our culinary team prepares our favorite high end Mexican cuisine in celebration of the Day of the Dead (Spanish: Día de los Muertos)

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz Carlton Drive,
CA-92629
(949) 240-2000
www.ritzcarlton.com/LagunaCulinaryDemos

CuisineType : Pan-Latin, Seafood

While they are at the peak of their season, learn all about tomatoes and the importance of seasoning. Experience the different types of salt and the benefits and usage of each. Lunch with feature among other recipes, Chilled Heirloom Tomato Water, Lobster and Basil Salad and Chef Andres’ favorite Sangria Recipe variations. Starting rate is $109 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity and includes a three course lunch with accompany alcoholic beverage following demonstration.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz Carlton Drive,
CA-92629
(949) 240-2000
www.ritzcarlton.com/LagunaCulinaryDemos

CuisineType : Central American, Pan-Latin, Seafood, Other

It’s spring thyme! Featuring Chef Andres’ Signature, Pan Seared Halibut, Creamy Fresh Herb Chimichurri Butter and Hibiscus Kir Royal. Learn how to impress your friends with this elegant meal.

$109 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity and includes a three course lunch with accompany alcoholic beverage following demonstration.

French 75 Bistro
1464 S. Pacific Coast Hwy.,
California-92607
949-494-8444
french75.net

CuisineType : French Bistro

Come enjoy Chef Moro’s delicious 4-course menu specially created to showcase the great artisan wines from HALL’s signature Napa Valley collection.

French 75 Bistro
1464 S. Pacific Coast Hwy.,
California-92607
949-494-8444
french75.net

CuisineType : French Bistro

Come enjoy Chef Moro’s delicious 4-course menu specially created to showcase the great artisan wines from HALL’s signature Napa Valley collection.

Nieuport 17
13051 Newport Ave.,
California-92780
714.731.5130
nieuport17.com

CuisineType : American, Steak

On Wednesday, May 2nd, you won’t want to miss our next wine pairing dinner, featuring four delectable courses from our very own chef Marco, paired with a variety of spectacular Joseph Phelps wines. This event is perfect for anyone looking for a great way to celebrate a special event, or merely to just get out for the night and enjoy some exquisite cuisine matched with superb, handcrafted wines.

Il Fornaio
18051 Von Karman,
CA-92612
949-261-1444
ilfornaio.com

CuisineType : Italian

You’re invited to join our monthly culinary expedition through the diverse regions of Italy. As we traverse the country, we celebrate the various types of food found in each unique area. This month, we visit Puglia with Chef Guiseppe DiMola

ZUPPE E ANTIPASTI

Zuppa di Lenticchie alla Rustica Lentil soup with farro, barley, carrots, onions, celery and tomato (vegan) 4.99 cup 5.99 bowl
Burrata di Andria Burrata cheese with sliced vine-ripened tomatoes, oregano and baby arugula; drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil (vegetarian) 12.99
Zucchine alla Parmigiana Thinly sliced zucchini, lightly fried and layered with mozzarella, tomato sauce, Parmigiano and basil, baked in the oven (vegetarian) 9.99

PASTA

Penne al Forno Pasta tubes with meatballs, tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella, topped with grated Parmigiano cheese and finished in the pizza oven 16.99
Orecchiette Fave e Cicorie “Little ear” pasta with fava beans, dandelion greens, garlic, peperoncino and aged ricotta salata (vegetarian) 16.59
Spaghettoni con Salsiccia e Rapini Spaghettoni with sausage, broccoli rabe, tomatoes, garlic, basil, peperoncino and pecorino cheese 17.99
Risotto del Gargano Imported carnaroli rice with scallops, shrimp, tomatoes, garlic, peperoncino and arugula 19.99

SECONDI

Petto di Pollo ai Carciofi Boneless, free-range chicken breast sautéed with fresh sliced artichokes, white wine, garlic, butter, lemon and fresh mint; served with roasted Yukon Gold potatoes and broccolini 22.99
Spiedini di Carne alla Pugliese Skewers of grilled Italian sausage, beef tenderloin, chicken breast, bell peppers, rosemary, sage and onions; served on sautéed dandelion greens 26.99
Merluzzo alla Barese Wild cod filet roasted with grilled zucchini, sundried tomatoes, potatoes, olives and herbs, topped with crispy breadcrumbs 25.99
Grigliata di Pesce Misto Mixed seafood grill of salmon, petrale sole, giant prawn, scallop and calamari topped with lemon olive oil; served with roasted Yukon Gold potatoes and sautéed broccolini 27.99

DOLCI

Torta alle Mandorle Warm chocolate-almond cake with crème anglaise, rum chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream 7.99

Vini della Puglia

Chardonnay del Salento, Tormaresca, 2010 This elegant white wine is produced from 100% chardonnay and is a great example of Italian chardonnay at its best and brightest. It has layered aromas and flavors of citrus fruit and vanilla and a long-lasting finish, making it a perfect match with the Zuppa and Petto di Pollo. $4 half glass $7 glass $28 bottle.
Roycello Fiano, Tormaresca, 2010 Produced from 100% fiano grapes cultivated on the Salento peninsula, this medium-bodied white is wonderfully aromatic with crisp, fresh apple and floral aromas and smooth, nutty complex flavors on the palate. It is an excellent match with the Orecchiette and Grigliata. $6 half glass $11 glass $43 bottle.
Neprica, Tormaresca, 2010 This medium-bodied, rustic red is named for its blend of grapes – Negroamaro, Primitivo and Cabernet Sauvignon (a 40-30-30 blend). It is rich and concentrated with aromas of cherry and spice complemented by warm ripe plum flavors and a smooth, spicy finish which makes it an excellent pairing for the Zucchine and Spiedini. $5 half glass $9 glass $35 bottle
Salice Salentino, Castello di Monaci, 2010 Salice Salentino, a medium-bodied red, is produced from a blend of 85% Negroamaro and 15% Malvasia. It is supple and smooth with a bright and balanced finish and makes a nice match with the Penne and Spaghettoni.$5 half glass $9 glass $35 bottle
Primitivo, Botromagno, 2009 Primitivo, thought to be identical to the full-flavored Zinfandel grape of California, is a full-bodied, complex red. It has an intense bouquet of violets with luscious berry flavors, is big and bold with long-lasting flavors and has a spicy-peppery finish that make it a great complement to the Spaghettoni or Spiedini. $6 half glass $11 glass $43 bottle

Michael’s On Naples
5620 East 2nd St.,
California-90803
562-439-7080
michaelsonnaples.com

CuisineType : Italian

Michael’s on Naples will be hosting a tasting of four outstanding Tasca d’Almerita wines from Sicily.Tasting highlights will include the first wine produced by Count Tasca d’Almerita on the Regaleali estate,Tasca d’Almerita Regaleali Bianco, a blend of three Sicilian grapes that is a refreshing representation of a true Sicilian white. The Leone d’Almerita is a fresh and fruity blend of native grapes that are chill-fermented in stainless steel, producing a bright and lively wine.

West 4th and Jane
1432A 4th St,
CA-90401
310.395.6765

CuisineType : American, Bar & Grill, Brewery

Join West 4th and Jane and Brewery Ommegang as they team up for an intimate beer and dinner tasting Wednesday, April 25th. This unique event pairs five craft beers from Ommegang with modern-American cuisine from Chef Ryan Turner. Space is limited! Join us at West 4th and Jane located at 1432A 4th Street (between Santa Monica and Broadway) Santa Monica, CA on Wednesday, April 25, 20127 p.m. Cost is $65/person, not including tax or gratuity.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 310.395.6765

Menu items will include exotic tastes and traditional beers like Hamachi Tom Ka Gai Crudo, Blade Runner Beet Salad, Chicken Fried Quail and Waffle and house made dessert paired with Witte, Hennepin, Abbey Ale, Rare Vos and Three Philosophers from Ommegang.

Locanda Del Lago
231 Arizona Ave.,
California-90401
310.451.3525
www.LagoSantaMonica.com

CuisineType : Italian

On Thursday, April 26, capon takes center stage at Locanda del Lago in Santa Monica, as Executive Chef Gianfranco Minuz “hatches” a five-course meal for the restaurant’s ongoing Morso della Bestia, or ”Bite of the Beast,” monthly dinner series. The free-range, hormone-free poultry will serve as the centerpiece of this seasonal “beak-to-tail” feast, prepared with influences from rustic Northern Italian recipes and traditions.

Savannah Chop House
32441 Golden Lantern,
California-92677
949-493-7107
savannahchophouse.net

CuisineType : American, Steak

Levendi’s Brian Cameron will be joining us to share the history behind their 2009 Cold Creek Chardonnay, winner of two gold medals at the San Francisco chronicle wine competition.

O’Neill’s Bar & Grill
26772 Avery Parkway,
California-92692
949.305.5100
arroyotrabuco.com/specials.aspx

CuisineType : American

Dierberg Wine Dinner
Thursday, April 26th 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Four Course Tasting Menu with Wine Pairings
$65 per person

Morton’s
1641 W. Sunflower Ave.,
CA-92704
714.444.4834
www.mortons.com/santaana

CuisineType : American, Fine Dining, Steak

Esteemed guest, Peter Mondavi Jr., leads as we explore the fine vintages of the Charles Krug Winery of Napa Valley.

Enjoy exquisite wine, fine steakhouse dining and a distinctive auction benefiting the Make-A-Wish® Foundation of Orange County and the Inland Empire. Live Auction benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Orange County and the Inland EmpirePeter Mondavi Jr. will be inviting you to bid on an exclusive 27-liter bottle of Charles Krug, Vintage Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Orange County and the Inland Empire will receive 100 percent of the winning auction bids (wishocie.org). Any winning bid amount over the fair market value can be considered for tax-deduction purposes.$150 ++

Michael’s on Naples
5620 East 2nd St.,
CA-90803
5624397080
www.michaelsonnaples.com

CuisineType : Italian

Grand Prix is back! We will be offering a special 3-course prix-fixe menu created by Chef David Coleman. Featured dishes include: grilled leg of lamb with farro, fava beans and carrots & speck wrapped diver scallops with English pea risotto.

For reservations, please call 562.439.7080 or visit www.michaelsonnaples.com

Locanda del Lago
231 Arizona Ave.,
CA-90401
310.451.3525
www.lagosantamonica.com/

CuisineType : Italian

Easter Week (Saturday, April 7 through Saturday, April 14), Locanda del Lago in Santa Monica wishes its guests a “Buona Pasqua” (Happy Easter) with a special prix-fixe menu, highlighting seasonal produce from the restaurant’s local purveyors, as well as Italian-influenced holiday creations ($48 for three courses; $58 for four courses; not including tax and gratuity).

Available for both brunch and dinner on Easter Sunday (April 8), and offered for dinner April 7 and April 9-14, Minuz’s selections will feature both unique and traditional takes on Easter favorites, such as a crispy “basket” made of Parmesan cheese and filled with hard-boiled quail eggs, and the classic Italian cake pastiera (available for an additional $10).

Five Crowns
3801 E. Coast Highway,
CA-92625
(949) 760-0331
www.thefivecrowns.com

CuisineType : Fine Dining, Steak

Five Crowns’ Easter menu offers a wide variety of delicious options, adding the contemporary cuisine of Executive Chef Ryan O’Melveny Wilson and Chef de Cuisine Bryon Freeze to the restaurant’s traditional selections. Diners will be served continuously from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling (949) 760-0331, or online at www.thefivecrowns.com or www.OpenTable.com.

Morton’s The Steakhouse
1641 W. Sunflower Ave.,
CA-92704
714-444-4834
www.mortons.com/santaana/

CuisineType : Steak

Join us this Easter for a delicious three-course menu for $59 per person. Morton’s full dinner menu also available.

Featuring a Special Three-Course Menu Sunday April 8.

First Course
(choice of)

Lobster Bisque
Ahi Tuna Tower
Jumbo Shrimp Alexander
Caesar Salad
Morton’s Salad
Chopped Spinach Salad

Second Course
(choice of)
6oz. Center Cut Filet Mignon served with Steamed Asparagus Spears
Honey-Chili Glazed Salmon Filet with Vegetable Relish
Chicken Bianco with Artichokes, Capers, & White Wine Sauce

Third Course
(choice of)
Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee
Double Chocolate Mousse
Individual Souffle