One of Orange County’s beloved restaurants, La Brasserie on Main Street in Orange, has closed. I am thankful Patrick and I had a meal there only three days before it became but a memory.
Much of the dining history of OC is entwined with La Brasserie owner Paul Rossi, his family and the French chef who was a traditionalist. We always knew what to expect and ended up with a fine impression and the desire to make another reservation.
Paul owns the property but has no firm plans on what he will do with it. Considering what’s going on with the urban renewal of Santa Ana and Orange in that area, it could become another restaurant or an office building like so many others close by.
Time to say farewell and good luck to the staff, most of whom already have other jobs.
Summer Dining
The lazy days of summer change our dining habits. Here are a few suggestions for happy adventures at the table during these hot months. Enjoy!
For Gallic fun, many of us await the Annual Bastille Day Celebration, the big f & #281;te for the French. The restaurant that saves us the travel expense,but makes sure it is a replica of the gaiety and good food enjoyed throughout France,is La Vie en Rose in Brea. Calendars should be marked for Sunday at 7 p.m.
This is an evening that unfolds in grand style with cancan dancers entertaining and much camaraderie happening. In France, Bastille Day is celebrated to mark the storming of the Bastille in Paris on July 17, 1789, though worldwide it is just a great excuse to break out the French champagne and enjoy French food.
Proprietor Louis Laulhere and chef Brian Tran have designed an authentic four-course French meal that they say is fit for royalty. The price of the gala evening is $95 per person, prepaid (alcoholic beverages, sales tax and tip not included).
Since this is a popular evening at the restaurant, you need to make reservations. Call (714) 529-8333. La Vie en Rose is at 240 S. State College Blvd. in Brea.
Another French indulgence that we never miss is Summer in Provence as interpreted for us at Pinot Provence in Costa Mesa. This has become a popular annual affair during the summer months and it happens every Thursday evening when we are transported to a dreamy atmosphere akin to dining in the courtyard of a French ch & #226;teau.
A commercial cooktop and prep station is placed on the lovely front patio that’s already beautifully decked out in furnishings brought over from France. Chef Nick Weber cooks for us in full view. There’s a special a la carte menu of seasonal favorites to choose from and some specially selected wines from the south of France whose flavors are matched to the fresh ingredients of summer.
Seating is limited, so please call (714) 444-5900.
Pinot Provence: 686 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa.
Taps Fish House & Brewery Crab Feast has a yearly bargain deal and it is here again. On Sunday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Labor Day, guests can feast on a three-course dinner starring a pound of succulent, seasonal Alaskan king crab legs for just $30.
Start with choice of a crisp Caesar salad or their signature New England clam chowder. On to steamed crab legs served with fresh corn on the cob and a savory twice baked potato. The finale is a miniature chocolate souffl & #233; served with freshly whipped cream and homemade hazelnut chocolate sauce.
For extra convenience, the crab feast is featured at Taps and sister restaurant The Catch, in Anaheim. Taps is a wonderful replica of New Orleans French Quarter architecture. The Catch is a classy dining spot as well. Taps: 101 E. Imperial Highway, Brea; phone (714) 257-0101. The Catch: 1929 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim; phone (714) 935-0101. Reservations are advised for the crab fest dinners.
The 2007 Dine Around Costa Mesa promotion runs through the months of July and August. Dozens of Costa Mesa restaurants are participating in this promo that rewards diners with a $25 gift certificate and some appreciative hospitality.
There’s some very fine food to be had and the best way to see the whole list of restaurant possibilities is by calling (866) 918-4749 or (714) 435-8530 and requesting the colorful mini booklet. They will also assist you in obtaining a $25 dining certificate. You can also go to www.travelcostamesa.com and click on 2007 Dine Around Promo.
This is a very good way to experience one or more restaurants that you may have missed. Choices run the gamut from casual and trendy to ultra upscale. Some of the restaurants offer the deal at both lunch and dinner, some at dinner only.
Christmas in July is one of the special features this month at the charming McCharles House in Old Town Tustin. It happens on Saturday and Sunday by reservation.
In the spirit of America, the owners will be dressing up McCharles House in the blossoms and seashells of summertime, with garlands of evergreen with roses, sunflowers and lavender intertwined with twinkling lights inspiring guests to create their versions for home. Summertime is all around as we celebrate the season’s leisure.
This is the realm of a mother and daughter team. Mom Audrey Heredia is an accomplished painter,some of her works are for sale at the unique residence/tea house,and co-hostess to guests. Daughter Vivian Heredia is in love with food, cooking and flower and food gardening. She treats us to sweet and savory items and a fine variety of teas.
Named for the family who built it in 1885, the restored Victorian landmark is a highlight of walking tours of the Old Town district. We’ve been having occasional tea and goodies at McCharles house since 1985 (the 100th anniversary of the home), when the family took over and lovingly restored the building and planted the gardens. It’s also a fine place to pick up gift or decorating items.
Incidentally, Christmas in July is only one of several summertime happenings that are gala additions to the tea service that we enjoy so much throughout the year.
McCharles House Restaurant and Gardens is at 335 S. C St. in Tustin. Call (714) 731-4063 for times and reservations, which are often required.
