As Happy Hour Week only lasted so long, each restaurant choice was crucial. Happily enough to say, The Clubhouse Restaurant at South Coast Plaza granted us a satisfying experience. Although we were seated at the incorrect location at first, they were more than accommodating in directing us to the bar where the Happy Hour menu was offered.

The service was wonderful. The hostess, waitress and bartender were very pleasant and friendly, however each withheld any intrusive, snobby or forced conversation.

The bartender was very helpful; the Cocktail list was quite extensive and his recommendations were spot on for my associate and myself. I had previously been resistant to Martini’s in general, however the Caramel Mochatini and Flirtini were both fantastic! I was expecting the Mochatini to be too sweet and the Flirtini too strong, however they couldn’t have been mixed with more complementary proportions. The former had a nice kick however the common lingering alcohol flavor was replaced with pleasant caramel and the latter was refreshing and tangy, however not overpowered with any one flavor. With the $2.00 discount, these specialty drinks were most certainly a value.

Determined to find our way through the appetizer menu, we decided to go with the Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps and the Firecracker Jumbo Lump Crab Crake. The Lettuce Wraps were mouthwatering and served in an extremely generous portion, at only $6.00. I surprisingly had to stop myself from finishing them so I could get a taste of the Crab Cake to come.  Although a single Crab Cake was $8.00, its title is anything but misleading. Accompanied with the garnish of a mango infused relish, this cake is full of delicious shellfish flavor with a fruity twist.

All in all, I would recommend this restaurant to anyone who would enjoy a nice meal in a comfortable yet classy surrounding. The décor is welcoming and homey while upholding the traditional “Clubhouse” feel. I think we were both impressed with the food, beverages, prices and ambiance.