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Travel Costa Mesa Blog

Posts Tagged ‘city of the arts’

The Best Sandwiches in Costa Mesa part one

Posted on March 12, 2013 | 9:34am

The creation of the sandwich is widely credited to John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich.  The story behind the sandwich is that Montagu was an avid gambler who created the hand-held meal so he could keep one hand free and continue to gamble while he ate.

The sandwich has evolved since Montagu’s stubborn, yet brilliant idea to put meat between two slices of bread.  It comes at no surprise given the versatility and variety of the sandwich that it has become one of the most popular food items in the United States.  It has even inspired its own day (and month).

The variety of amazing sandwiches in the City of the Arts, Costa Mesa, is no exception.  Travel Costa Mesa has compiled a two-part list of the top restaurants to enjoy the art of an amazing sandwich.  Be sure to try these sandwiches before we share the second half of our list.  Each sandwich tastes so good that even Montagu would take a break from gambling to enjoy one!

Monte Cristo from Le Chateau Garden Bistro

The Monte Cristo from Le Chateau at the Ayres Hotel and Suites Costa Mesa has received numerous accolades and has been hailed as the best Monte Cristo in Orange County.  The deep-fried, double-decker of bliss is turkey, ham, Swiss cheese and powdered sugar dipped in egg batter and served with raspberry Chambord jelly.  Although Monte Cristos  are not a common menu item, it is hard to find one that can compare to Le Chateau’s.

Monte Cristo

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Posted in Food, Locals, Play

Costa Mesa Culinary Destinations: South Coast Plaza

Posted on March 6, 2013 | 11:09am

With over 250 world-class boutiques and the highest concentration of luxury retailers in the United States, South Coast Plaza certainly lives up to its moniker of an “international shopping destination.”  People may flock to South Coast Plaza for designer names and an unparalleled shopping experience, but an equally impressive dining experience awaits too.

The culinary destinations range as greatly as the shops with restaurants specializing in cuisine from Italian to Asian and new American to fusion.  Although there are dozens of great restaurants to choose from, we’ve narrowed the list down to five must-go eateries. Read More

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Posted in Food, Misc, Play

Portola Coffee Lab Prepares for Barista Competition at Theorem

Posted on March 1, 2013 | 12:25pm

To prepare for the upcoming 2013 Southwest Regional Barista Competition & Brewers Cup, Portola Coffee Lab is using Theorem as a training ground.  Portola is sending two talented representatives, Ryan Redden and Truman Severson, to compete for the title of best barista in the West and the opportunity to advance to the national competition.

Judges Sheet at Theorem

Baristas are expected to execute the preparation and service of 3 different beverages for 4 judges for a total of 12 beverages in 15 minutes.  Judges grade the baristas on presentation, crema, balance (sweet vs. acidic and complex vs. simple flavors), mouth-feel, body-feel, latte art, creativity and explanation. Read More

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Posted in Events, Locals, Misc, Play

Top Margaritas in Costa Mesa to Celebrate National Margarita Day

Posted on February 22, 2013 | 11:06am

From frozen, blended, on the rocks, flavored or traditional, there is a seemingly endless variety of margaritas to choose from.  Not that an actual reason is ever needed to enjoy a delicious margarita, but because today is National Margarita Day, we thought we would share some great places to indulge in a frosty beverage.   Costa Mesa is home to several establishments that serve unique, mouth-watering margaritas.  Just a warning, you may be tempted to have one at lunch! Read More

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Posted in Events, Food, Misc, Play

Snoopy House Returns to Costa Mesa City Hall

Posted on December 17, 2012 | 12:23pm

The Snoopy House Holiday Display returns once again to illuminate Costa Mesa City Hall during the holiday season.  The elaborate display was an east side Costa Mesa neighborhood tradition for 44 years.  Due to a home foreclosure in 2011, the Peanuts-themed display moved to the City Hall building at 77 Fair Drive, located across the street from the OC Fair & Event Center.

Costa Mesa Snoopy House

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Posted in Events, Misc, Music & Art, Play