OUTDOOR EATS
FROM PLANT-BASED RESTAURANTS TO STEAKCENTRIC SPEAKEASIES , ENJOY OUTDOOR DINING AND TAKE OUT AT THESE LATEST TO THE CUISINE SCENE SPOTS .
BY ASHLEY BESING
GRACIAS MADRE n You can ditch the meat and still enjoy your favorite Mexican dishes , such as tacos , enchiladas and quesadillas , at Gracias Madre in Newport Beach . The plant-based restaurant celebrated the grand opening of their second location ( the first location is in West Hollywood ) with an intimate performance from vegan singer-songwriter Jason Mraz earlier this year . ( graciasmadre . com )
THE DRAKE n With live music performances every night , The Drake is more of a live music venue that serves food rather than a restaurant . However , the menu is anything but lacking , with a steep list of cocktails and entrees like filet mignon , scallops and venison , The Drake is the place for gourmet food and music in Laguna Beach . ( thedrakelaguna . com )
KNIFE PLEAT n Knife Pleat is the curbside pickup spot for fine French cuisine at South Coast Plaza . This gourmet restaurant has an all-day menu that changes weekly and includes French classics , such as Tsar Nicolai caviar and three-course , prix- fixe meals to-go . But exclusive multi-course prix-fixe meals are also offered on the Bridge of Gardens Terrace on weekends where Chef Tony Esnault will show his appreciation for the state ’ s seasonal produce . ( knifepleat . com )
THE HALL : GLOBAL EATERY n Created by Amar Santana , a finalist on the show “ Top Chef ,” The Hall : Global Eatery at South Coast Plaza is split into three parts : The Pâtisserie , which serves pastries , sandwiches and salads , Mediterranean Grill , which offers Mediterranean staples such as kabobs , shawarma and hummus and Crudo , a restaurant and bar where seafood is the main event . Open for dine in and curbside . ( thehallge . com )
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