Best Of OC - Week Of January 26
January comes to a close in Orange County this week, but there is still time for plenty of OC exploration. World-class musical and dance performances, ranging from all-American classics to millennium-old traditions, shouldn't be missed this week; there's even a few great options for the kids that will inspire them to new passions and interests. Fancy dining and imbibing options expanded this month in Orange County, including menu items boasting foie gras, whose ban was recently lifted.
Hershey Felder as Irving Berlin
606 Laguna Canyon Rd.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 497-2787
www.lagunaplayhouse.com
Irving Berlin, dubbed the "greatest songwriter that has ever lived," by George Gershwin, wrote a litany of American classics, famous to those who might not even know his name, such as "White Christmas," "God Bless America," "Anything You Can Do," "Puttin' on the Ritz," "There's No Business Like Show Business," and "Top Hat, White Tie and Tails." Hershey Felder, no stranger to the task of portraying pianists and songwriters, portrays Irving Berlin at the Laguna Playhouse, sharing stories of his life, the creation of his music, and the songs themselves. Through February 8.
Frozen Fun
The Disneyland Resort
1313 Disneyland Dr.
Anaheim, CA 92802
(714) 781-4636
www.disneyland.com
OC residents won't want to miss "Frozen Fun," celebrating the magic, wonder, and world-wide popularity of the Walt Disney Pictures blockbuster film, "Frozen." Meet and greets with Anna and Elsa have a new home in Disney California Adventure at "Anna & Elsa's Royal Welcome;" guests visiting the sisters in Hollywood Land can also enjoy a sing along to the "Frozen" soundtrack, real snow to play in (and slide down!), "Freeze the Night! A Family Dance Party," and a meeting with Olaf himself. The virtual queue to meet Anna and Elsa keeps the whole family happy as they enjoy the rest of the live entertainment and festivities, including learning how to draw your favorite "Frozen" characters, while securing their place in line. SoCal residents can take advantage of a great 2 day park offer (2-day ticket with your choice of one park per day for $139 ) available now through May.
Eat Foie Gras!
SOCIAL Costa Mesa
512 W 19th St.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 642-2425
www.socialcostamesa.com
This month, California lifted its ban of foie gras, and SOCIAL Costa Mesa restaurant immediately incorporated foie gras into its menu, both in dishes, including the hot preparation of Seared Foie Gras with Pain Perdu, Quince, Hazelnuts, and Foie Ganache (pictured), but also in unique cocktail presentations. The Last Day of Sin cocktail is made with Foie Gras infused Cognac, Armagnac, Apple Cider Shrub, and Herbsaint Rinse with Dried Apricot Garnish, or try the Cold presentation in Cochon Foie: a maple macaron with blood orange.
Opening: Colony Wine Merchant
280 S Lemon St.
Anaheim, CA 92805
(657) 208-1860
www.facebook.com
The Colony Wine Merchant opened this month to rave reviews from locals, residents, and city officials, and a surprising link to Anaheim history which holds winegrowing traces back to the early 1800s. Guests visiting can shop their retail selection of hand-selected wine from small producers that use sustainable farming practices, or just enjoy a flight of wine samples in their relaxing and warm ambiance. In addition to wine, local craft beers, artisan cheeses, and other small bites are served.
"Shen Yun"
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Dr.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
www.scfta.org
This weekend only, watch as more than 100 performers, dressed in over 400 sets of hand-made costumes, bring together the ancient legends and heroic tales of the People's Republic of China through the language of music and dance. Spanning "5,000 years of civilization in one night," immerse yourself in the world of Shen Yun to enjoy the artistry, pageantry, and awe-inspiring feats on display that will leave you breathless. Through February 1.
Cinderella: Opera for Kids
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
600 Town Center Dr.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org
Families looking to immerse their children in the world of classical music and opera shouldn't miss Cinderella: Opera for Kids this morning at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, part of the Family Musical Mornings series. Rossini's retelling of the well-known fairy tale is the perfect introduction for kids, who already feel acquainted with the romantic story. The cast, made up of both professional singers and students from Chapman University, coupled with the Pacific Symphony under the direction of Alejandro Gutierrez, work together to make this opera accessible for kids, especially those in the 5-11 age range.
Wonder of Dinosaurs
Laguna Hills Mall
24155 Laguna Hills Mall
Laguna Hills, CA 92651
www.wonderofdinosaurs.com
If watching the Super Bowl isn't your fancy (check out our best OC bars to watch the game in case it is!), take the whole family to explore the Wonder of Dinosaurs exhibit located inside the Laguna Hills Mall. In addition to museum quality dinosaurs on display (some animatronic), there are plenty of activities to keep the kids busy in the activity center including riding the T-Rex, navigating a walk-through maze, digging for fossils, running the obstacle course, or bouncing on one of the dino-themed inflatables.
Superbowl Sunday
ESPN Zone
1545 Disneyland Dr.
Downtown Disney
Anaheim, CA 92802
(714) 300-3776
www.espnzone.com
The New England Patriots take on the Seattle Seahawks in today's epic battle to be named football's national champion. Numerous bars and restaurants throughout the Orange County area are perfect to catch all the action. From Tustin, to Anaheim and every place in between, visit our full list of the Best Bars In Orange County to watch the Superbowl no matter where you are in Orange County.
Newport Beach Restaurant Week 2015
Various Locations
www.dinenb.com
Today marks the last day of Newport Beach Restaurant Week. As one of the most popular foodie events of the year, there nothing bigger or better to experience some of OC's top restaurants at a fraction of the cost. So, loosen that designer belt as this is your opportunity to try something new. A chance to dine like royalty on a college student's budget is rare, especially if it is a sampling of a special menu prepared by Orange County's top chefs.
For a full list of the best restaurants serving up special cuisines, visit What You're Eating - The Best Eats of Newport beach Restaurant Week.
