Restaurant News to Know

Openings, winemaker dinners and more!

Photo by Ed Olen The Winery executive chef Yvon Goetz

he fence is down on the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Old Newport Boulevard, and the doors to the new A Restaurant have opened. Once home to the landmark Arches Restaurant, which owner Dan Marcheano relocated to The Cannery area (949-645-7077), and also opened Arches on the Water, A Restaurant has kept the cottage look alive -- rustic red paint and all. Interior designer Betsy Van’toff successfully updated the restaurant’s classic interiors without losing its character. The menu, designed by pro-restaurateur/partner Tim Goodell (Aubergine, Troquet and others), offers starters such as steak tartar, a charcuterie plate, and oysters on the half-shell, to name a few. Main courses include old and new favorites from the A burger with caramelized onions, smokey blue cheese, bacon and arugula, to a comforting pot roast. The expanded bar serves classic and house cocktails, plus a nice selection of wines by the glass. The adjoining A market opens later this summer.

Five Crowns Restaurant (949-760-0331) is now available for night-time weddings in its English storybook garden. Depending on the event size, there are a number of English-themed rooms to enjoy pre-and post-ceremony hospitality -- and of course, the ceremonial dinner. Contact Margo Brask for more details.

On June 24, 7 p.m., the Vineyard Patio at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar at The District (714-258-7600) will be the setting for a Martin Ray Winery winemaker dinner. Executive chef Yvon Goetz has planned a spectacular four-course meal with wine pairings by sommelier William Lewis. Cost, $95, non-inclusive. Limited seating. For reservations, call or e-mail Rochelle@the winery restaurant.net.

On June 24, 6:30 p.m., TAPS Fish House & Brewery in Brea (714-257-0101) presents “An Evening at Monticello,” to celebrate the birth of our nation 232 years ago. Brewmaster Victor Novak has recreated an ale that Thomas Jefferson would have brewed and served at his family estate, Monticello, two hundred years ago. Dinner cost, $55 per person, plus tax & gratuity.

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