Sometimes it just gets to be about the parents. This month, we know how hard you will work to make your little ones’ holidays amazing so we are bringing you a more mature collection of foodie finds. So carve out a bit of time and celebrate like a grownup!
Prego Mediterranean
The District at Tustin Legacy | www.pregooc.com
OC foodies have an extra reason to be thankful this holiday, the return of Prego! Executive Chef & Partner, Ugo Allesina, has enjoyed nearly three decades of OC appreciation for his culinary talents. Born and raised in the region of Piemonte, Italy, his new menu emphasizes Mediterranean cuisine, featuring grilled fresh fish, freshly made pastas, spit-roasted meats and fowl. Craft cocktails and an extensive wine list also await (we love the Pomegranate Paloma and Eastern Standard).
Fans of the former Irvine location will be happy to see the return of the signature Ruth Salad with seared tuna, crab, shrimp, grilled zucchini, and tomato over romaine, tossed in a house-made vinaigrette; Baked Pasta with ricotta and spinach rolled into house-made pasta, topped with béchamel; and Lobster Ravioli, half-moon pasta filled with lobster and ricotta cheese, served in a lemon and lobster sauce.
New dishes include Seasonal Hummus of mushroom and truffle, sundried tomato, and roasted garlic basil,; Golden Beet Salad with mixed baby greens, yellow beets, goat cheese, and caramelized onions; and Lobster and Shrimp Stuffed Sole in a white wine, garlic, lemon, and caper sauce.
Bianchi Wines
The famed wine might hail from Paso Robles, Central Coast, but the headquarters is all OC. Keep it local and opt for one of these bottles to wow your holiday hostess or toast a romantic evening of staring at the holiday lights after the kids scamper off to bed.
Merlot—Paso Robles: For those cooking up Ham instead of turkey, go for something a little fruitier, smoother and sweeter like the merlot.
Rosé — Paso Robles: It might come as a surprise to some, but this fabulous rosé makes a great light complement to many a Christmas dish. The light and dry fruitiness of Bianchi’s Rosé allows the food to shine while giving you a refreshing zing on the tongue.
Pinot Noir — Santa Maria: If sticking with traditional birds or roast leg of lamb, a pinot noir is a good match.
Syrah — Paso Robles: We know that sometimes people like to stray a bit from tradition. If that’s the case – say a spicy dish graces the table this year – try something like a Syrah for a perfect balance.
New Year’s Eve Gift-Giving Ritual
Marin French Cheeses | www.marinfrenchcheese.com
Brie, once thought of as a dessert cheese, was a popular New Year’s gift in 15th Century France when a festive exchange of presents on New Year’s Day, known as “Etrennes,” was more popular than the giving of Christmas gifts! Marin French Cheese’s Triple-cream Brie, sold in its wooden vessel, or The Petite Collection of 4-ounce wheels (which allows a ‘tasting’ of up to seven varieties including the Schloss, for those who like even more aroma and flavor) makes a perfect holiday gift.
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