Before the Date…
The Orange County sun sets upon another perfect day at the beach. Some head home burnt to a crisp while others are just getting started. You’re about to becoma the later by hitting local joints, like a local cougar. Small plates before big glasses of wine is the name of the game.
So grab your dancing partner cause it’s your time to munch on local tapas and search for those wealthy toupees.
St0p #1: 5 pm
Italian Tapas
at a local wine gallery
What to Know
On primetime nights reservations are highly encouraged. This place can get packed. Request the high top in the wine bottle corner.
The Wine Gallery is no slouch when it comes to live music. Stop in Tuesday and Thursday nights when they have a live band.
Looking to save a few bucks? Happy hour runs from Monday to Saturday 4:30pm to 6:30pm with $9 pizzas and meatballs, $8.50 house wine and $2 off 1/2 pours.
St0p #2: 6:30 pm
Wine “Speakeasy”
at an “old school” joint
What to Know
This is the second incarnation of the Seahorse Bar, it was originally opened in 1946 known as the unofficial first gay bar in Laguna. A legend for a town that once boasted 25% population of gay residents.
A rotating tap of craft beers and hard to find wines are on tap but they’re no slouch to elevated bar bites with Kumomoto oysters and house made chowder every Friday.
Unfortunately on busy nights the vinyl isn’t able to be DJed by the patrons but if you find yourself there on an off night and ask nicely…you may have a chance to get on the decks.
St0p #3: 8 pm
Classic Rock
at a local cougar den
What to Know
Prepare for the sticker shock. This joint usually pulls in the older crowd with tickets usually $25-40 for a show.
The food here is excellent with Peri-peri everything and an incredible pre-6pm happy hour with $10 dishes. Perfect for next time.
Mozambique was originally a Mexican joint called Tortilla Flats. This is where Javier Sosa, owner and namesake to now famed Javier’s Finest Foods of Mexico started his cooking career years ago.