Thai Pepper

I'm a guy who loves hole-in-the-wall places, because they're almost guaranteed to have some hidden gems. This one was no exception, the owner was fast talking, so you have to know what you want when you step up to the plate. I was my turn and several seconds later, BOOM, order was taken, I didn't know what hit me. But the one fatal flaw I instantly picked was the high amount of orders coming in on the phone, and it hit me, oh crap... I should've called ahead. 

Realizing what I got myself into, I mentally preped myself for a long haul. Rightfully so too, it was a good 20 minutes before I saw my food come out. Normally I'd be frustrated with this situation, but luckily the local wino decided to come out of the dive bar next door and drag her butt along the pavement yelling "I DON'T NEED CHOPSTICKS" as she skidded by. An interesting event to witness in order to pass the time, to say the least. 

So much fun stuff has been going on I nearly forgot that I ordered my food! haha
To my delight I was started off with a modest little salad covered in this yummy and super creamy peanut sauce, I should've asked for a tub. 

While the main course was the C-7, or Mint Leaves Chicken (Spicy). Read the title of the dish and you got to be curious, and ask yourself what does that taste like? Let me tell yeah, it has a nice bite from the chili's and at the same time a cooling sensation from the mint. A generic description, sure, but you really do have try this to understand. My mouth was intrigued till the end, I just had to dump all of my fried rice in the sauce just so I could continue experiencing it. 

Now first off, CALL AHEAD, don't make a newb mistake I did. Second know what your going to order on the spot otherwise you'll look like a nuisance. Thirdly expect some pretty healthy portions, small places always give you a bang-for-your-buck experience. 
Would've been so much for awesome for me if my ignorance didn't coast me 20-25 minutes.

18023 Beach Blvd
Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Mick's Karma Bar

Damn this place is tricky to get to! I had to drive circles around the corporate area before I noticed this little hole in the wall (The woman at the register tells me of the easy parking next to El Torito). The place looks small but trendy with a colorful hand written chalk menu and the bar seating arrangements made it fell more cozy ambiance. Small, and I loved it.

-Karma Habanero Style: First off, beautifully cooked meat (pink to perfection) and oh my lord what are those tasty No.19 buns made of?? Excellent base for any sandwich. Going back to the theme, thinking habanero would make me expect my mouth to be set ablaze, but in fact it was more of light tingle than anything. Though honestly I’m glad I was able to taste the flavor and not just the heat because the creamy garlic mayo just fused to wonderfully with the chilies. What stood out to me the most about this burger was the Queso Fresco—typically a very mild cheese—somehow stood out very well to my surprise and played an equal role along with other stringer tasting ingredients.

-Strawberry Basil Lemonade: “Wow!” is the first thing you think as this hits your palate. One sip and your taken away on a sweet bliss of berry and herb. The real chinks of strawberry and basil just make you understand how fresh it is. Flavor profile-wise I’m lost for words, just get it.

Photo credit to J Kao 

2010 Main St

Irvine, CA 92614

Le Diplomate Cafe

Awesome sandwiches (one of the best in the OC). The highlight of the this place has got to be the bread—because ultimately that’s what makes the sandwich. Although most would say it’s the garlic sauce, and don’t get me wrong, its awesome in its own right, but can be over whelming in excess. 

So if it's your first time go for the Chicken Eggplant or the Chicken Broccoli & Mushroom. With such a variety here I haven't picked anything I didn't like so you cannot go wrong here.

4237 Campus Dr

Irvine, CA 92612

The Gypsy Den

A little hipster spot wedged in the corner of Downtown Santa Ana, I couldn’t help but stop by after passing by this place sooo many times whenever I come by to bar hop. First impression, rustic, chic, trendy. Visually I’m already hooked with all the local art and carpets on display plus I couldn’t help chuckle when I noticed the “Friends don’t let friends go to Starbucks” sticker on the pastry case.

-Hibiscus Arnold Palmer: Super tangy, but you get the sweet tartness of the lemonade. (reminiscent to the Jamaica beverage) Tasty but not sure if this drink made me pucker too much. I’ll let you decide.

- Mediterranean Plate: A plethora of Greek anti-pasti (I’m not sure if I’m allowed to say those two words combined), you get a little bit of everything to share with your friends. My only qualms was that there was a scarcity of olives plus an inclusion of dolamathes would be nice, but I can be a bit of a greedy fat-ass like that.

- Curry Cashew Chicken: Yummy overall but it wasn’t entirely on point, my taste-buds had to actually “look” for the curry. Although it it ain’t far to compare, I believe the Curry Chicken Sandwich over at C’est Si Bon is far superior and having that first is kinda making me a snob about it.

- Brunch Burger: Yummerz instantly strikes the mind when I think about this unique sandwich. Turkey patty, fried egg, provolone, tomato, lettuce and mayo on an onion bagel, now let that stew in your mind for a bit. Little things about this burger take to my happy place, like the slightly runny yolk marries with the turkey juices in on my tongue. (heavenly choir echoes)

- Mayan Mocha: I’m not a much of a  sweet coffee drinks guy by any stretch of the imagination, that Starbucks phase has long since past by, but this hot delight just converted me back! When I hear “Mayan”, deep earthy flavors from many spices come mind. Although this drink might not taste as strong as I describe it, it’s still a perfect balance of rich flavors with an even richer house-made whip cream floating atop. This is a must try and my new pleasure.

125 N Broadway

Santa Ana, CA 92701

Mama D's Italian Kitchen

After coming back here several times I have narrowed possibly their best dish, Roma (w. angel hair), Alfredo, and Chicken. This dish will blow you away!!!! I always bring my friends here and introduce them to this dish and they are just struck dumb with the first bite every time. Normally you would expect the Alfredo to be heavy and over bearing but its so light and creamy. It combines well with the taste of the chicken and the bits of artichoke in the Roma. But enjoy the soft chewy texture of the angel hair and veggies just melts in your mouth. I cannot help but drool every time I think about it. Haha

I recommend their pizzas too. So far the Veggie and the Margarita has won me over. I’ve heardthat people have complained that the crust comes out soggy, but they must’ve had a bad stroke of luck, because the crust for me comes out light and crispy every time. The Veggie’s highlights are the shear amount of produce that provide the fresh crunch you would expect and the Margarita is yummy buffalo cheese and basil enough said.

Btw their Garlic Bread & Oil is irresistible! Try making it to your main course without filling up on these..I dare you.

(Photo Credit’s to Jamie Kao)

3012 Newport Blvd

Newport Beach, CA 92663

Basic Homemade Crepes

Who knew they where so easy to make? All that is left, is whatever you want to fill it with. My personal favorite is Nutella with some fresh berries and a little bit of powdered sugar.

Try making yours prettier than mine. Haha

Now if I can just get the batter distribution down...

Cream Pan

We all, hopefully, have that local bakery that serves great coffee. An establishment where you can sit down and enjoy yourself, or in the company of others, for an hour or two. This one is mine. 

Jamie and I have started to frequent here more often for the past several weeks, as her warm up for the cafe's she'll be visiting in Paris (envious).

But we've been coming here for years, regardless of the practice needed for Europe, because it's just that good. What got us and anyone else hooked to this place is their legendary Strawberry Croissants. Simply put, it has a flaky little buttery crust that oozes sweet cream and strawberries with every bite that makes your mouth project thoughts of a golden choir between bites.

Putting the star attraction to side, you got to respect every single one of their sweet and savory confections ranging from their equally good Azuki Cream Puff all the way over to their Chicken Curry Pan & Soki Soba Sandwich.

As for their coffee's they keep in simple and modest, none of those 5 word concoctions you see at Starbucks. It's simple, tasty, and soul warming. You can never go wrong with a Cafe Au Lait.

602 El Camino Real
Tustin, CA 92780

Flourless Chocolate Stout Cake with Orange Mascarpone Frosting

Having two of my best friends birthdays coming up in a few and just getting notified that another one is getting into a portfolio development class for Cal Arts. I couldn't help but bake something to bring for a planned celebratory luncheon! Always having plenty of Stout around the house, gravitating towards this recipe came naturally.

The fantastic thing about this cake is that it's a simple and quick job that results in something so sinfully tasty. Not to mention the fact that it's fun to describe it to other friends. C'mon your serving cake with beer it, how awesome is that? So let the oohs and ahhs commence.

One thing to note is that the powdered sugar portions can be decreased maybe down to two cups because the cake is rich enough as it is and just look at that, it's almost a fifty-fifty size ratio of cake to frosting (it's beautiful thing, in the eyes of this beholder). 

Habuya Okinawan Dining

This was another hole in the wall that I passed several times, and I never thought twice until I saw it Yelp and of course being something as unique as Okinawan I couldn’t resist. The lady upfront, which I assumed is the owner, is very polite and formal. The vibe here is very casual & relaxed (especially with the old-school Japanese pop playing in the background).

- Goya-Kimchi: It has the classic kimchi spice upfront and then the melon bitterness at the end. If you never had bitter melon before be prepared for a strong kick in your mouth, you’ll love it or you’ll hate. My fave.  

-Cod Rod with Cream Cheese: All that encased in a little fried wonton-eque shell, and after one bite you get a gush warm salty creamy bliss (oh my). Served with a baby spinach salad that covered in a sweet vinaigrette sauce that was sprinkled with something that reminded me of ramen powder. 

- Chicken Gizzard: Little fried pieces of chicken guts that have a snap to the bite and a bit of density as you chew for it. Flavor-wise it’s slightly gamey, but mild. Along side are diced scallops covered in a lemon vinegar sauce. 

- Soki-Soba: The broth has a sweet ginger flavored beef stock to it that warmed me up on the first sip. Noodles where thick and chewy, not in a bad way, trust me. The Pork Rib was sooo tender and flavorful from stewing for so long, that it slips off the bone (which you could chew straight through). I must note that they gave me this pepper-infused sake sauce on the side that packs a punch (use sparingly).

- Pork Belly Ramen: I had a couple tastes from my friends bowl, and my initial thoughts where that they did the broth and noodles justice. The star of the dish, pork belly, was literally melt in your mouth good! They say fat is flavor, but it can also, momentarily, make time slow down too.

- Photos courtesy of J Kao 

14215 Red Hill Ave
Tustin, CA 92780

Felix Continental Café

I've been to this place a couple times already and ever single time I'm blown away, the food here is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend the Felix Continental combination to anyone that comes here for their first time because it brings together all of their best dishes in an absolute harmony. But for those who know Cuban / Spanish cuisine should definitely get the Paella (although they have been skimping on the seafood recently) or the Arroz a la Cubana. If you still can manage some room, try the Tres Leches cake {its so rich, creamy and fatty}

The service here is great; the waiters are polite and quick on the order {although this is a small place so it can get a little crowded during the lunch rush}.

Probably the best thing about this place is that you get what you pay for plus more! The portions are generous,well worth it, and take advantage of the Lunch Special menu if your a little low on cash. 

To anybody around this area this place is a must! For breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food is to die for.

- Photos courtesy of J Kao 

36 Plaza Sq
Orange, CA 92866

Earl of Sandwich (Planet Hollywood)

In a city of sin this place is a god-send! Perfect price, perfect portion, perfect taste. If you're on a budget, looking for some post-club munchies or a hangover remedy this is the spot, open 24/7. Never mind the lines you'll occasionally run into, the service here is lighting fast and efficient. If you haven't unwrapped your first golden seal I would highly recommend the Full Montague and feel free to explore on from there, you just can't go wrong.

3667 Las Vegas Blvd S

Ste 760

Las Vegas, NV 89109

LA Top Picks

My collaboration with Jamie Kao, my travel buddy and fellow food enthusiast. Here's our favorite spots we've come to love over our many trips to LA. 

Forage

There's a wonderful ambiance that makes it feel so familiar and communal. It took me a while and a friend to point out that it almost takes you back to the cafeteria days in school, what with all the trays you carry  to a table that has an open spot (no "savsies" on the tables, someone is bound to remind you). 

 Aside from the cafeteria feel, their food is way beyond that point. Everything is fresh, flavorful and, I must say, beautiful to look at (straight out of Kinfolk Magazine). My first try was the Pork Belly, when you utter those words you expect something, so be ready! Plus what I find the most delightful about their menu is the variety of sides that you cannot go wrong in choosing, (baked carrots or the chickpeas,kale, & quinoa).

After my first and only try, it's now among my top places to go eat. A must try!

- Photos courtesy of J Kao 

3823 W Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026

Handsome Coffee Roasters

Sadly I’m rather disappointed with the large amount of detractors who harshly complain about the lack of sugar. This place is grounded on the idea that coffee should be respected and there for shouldn’t be tampered with, so that you can actually taste what it’s all about. Yes, it is bit pretentious, but these people have really gone out to source quality beans and brew them in such a way that you can get the full experience (take a look at the profiles of the roasters on the website, you’re actually in pretty good hands). Besides would you drown good scotch in coke?

As much as one would deny, if any, this is in fact a hipster joint. Located in the middle of a bunch of warehouses in the artists district, where you almost have to be “in the know” to find this place, just screams it. But once found, you come to appreciate the chic minimalism while noticing the undoubtedly handsome roasters that gives it the name. 

Their variety is simple and to the point, much like their drinks. You have an option 3oz, 5oz, or 10oz cups. Yes, there is no sugar here, but that’s what I love, I’m able to get the full heavy profile in every sip. I can’t say I’m an experienced coffee drinker just yet, but I’ve had my fair share of some quality blends (Intelligentsia, Blue Bottle, Philz), and this place serves some of the best I’ve had (I plan my days around here whenever I’m in town). 

If you’re hungry,  Egg Slut is typically parked just outside and they have an awesome agreement with HR to let you eat in. Craving those sweets? Bread Lounge down the street has got you covered. What few things can compare to the combination of a cup of coffee & a pastry?  

So yes, this place is not what you are used to but I honestly hope that you can sit down and give this a chance, it’ll charm the pants right off you (figuratively speaking). 

And just to reiterate that’s stated above, suck it up or go to Starbucks, they have all the sugar and non-dairy milk you want.

-Photos courtesy of J Kao

582 Mateo St

Los Angeles, CA 90013