ver since The White House Restaurant & Nightclub opened its doors in 1918 , Laguna Beach has patiently cultivated its presence as a haven for fine dining . An aromatic aura seems to hover over the town that beckons locals and visitors alike , appealing to a wide range of taste buds and olfactory inclinations . On South Coast Highway alone , 25-year mainstay San Shi Go offers a variety of sushi and tempura just up the road from Mozambique Steakhouse , Bar and Lounge , which dishes

up exotic South African cuisine . Nearby , Adolfo ’ s has been offering authentic Mexican fare for 30 years , while popular chain BJ ’ s Restaurant & Brewhouse has been at its location a few blocks north for two decades .

Mozambique celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2015 , and owner Ivan Spiers marked the occasion with the November opening of a new concept , Skyloft , in the former Rock ’ n Fish space on South Coast Highway . Boasting authentic Americana items like smoked brisket and baby back

ribs , the eatery is Laguna ’ s foray into smokehouse barbecue , yet another jewel to add to the city ’ s crown of diverse establishments . “ There is a sense of community and pride here ,” Spiers says . “ I think that ’ s why so many people go out to dine or unwind … because they know that inevitably they will run into someone they know .”

As recent additions like Skyloft pop up alongside decades-old legacies , the city ’ s dining scene continues to forge its own path toward epicurean innovation and longevity .

NEW TO THE SCENE

For a restaurant to catch the eye of local diners , it is essential that the owner create an atmosphere that embodies Laguna ’ s artistic culture and ambience . Boasting 10 years of experience in the area , Spiers is no stranger to this dynamic : In Skyloft , the restaurateur has captured the welcoming paradigm he created in Mozambique with a complete transformation of the space .

“ If you live in Laguna , you know you never want to leave ; so rather than commute to another city , I decided to open Skyloft [ here ],” he

COURTESY OF SKYLOFT

20 SUMMER 2016 CITY GUIDE