So I leave tomorrow down to Orange County, home of Disneyland, TV shows like The OC, Real Housewives of OC. I’m there to do some wine dinners starting Wednesday with my friend Pascal at his restaurant in Seal Beach. The restaurant, Thai on Main, a block from the pier, is amazing; and therefore, always busy. How does someone named Pascal own a Thai Restaurant you’re wondering? Well, Pascal’s background is Cambodian/Chinese, but he was raised in France. He speaks fluent French, Cambodian, and English. His family owns Chinese restaurants in Grenoble, France; his mom the Chef who created the recipes. Thai food has been another passion for them. And best of all when visiting is that Pascal’s hospitality is second to none. I’ve had the privilege to travel to France and Cambodia with him and his family. I can tell you, I’ve never eaten so well and so much as on trips with his family. They are always looking over my plate and piling it on when it gets half empty. Their genuine care for other’s enjoyment is very visible at his restaurant when you see the customers’ faces.
Thursday I’m in Newport Beach at 21 Oceanfront. This is as classic as it gets. When you want the dishes of yesterday that continue to live on, it’s nice to go to a place that does it right. Not to say that’s all they do; their chefs have been innovative keeping up with new culinary trends; but it’s nice to go back and know you can get some of the classic favorites they’ve had there for decades. Sadly, this dinner is sold out; but we may add another one Friday!
In any case, if you can’t make it this week, don’t let that stop you from visiting them another day. Just cause I’m not there, doesn’t mean the hospitality and quality stop. They don’t.
And if you’re afraid to get through the Orange Curtain, don’t be. I’ve lived there for over 20 years, and those were some of the most memorable years of my life. There’s a reason those shows based their themes there. Its beauty, conveniences (and shopping) are arguably second to none in this country.
