Chapter One (Santa Ana)

Danielle:

I love Santa Ana. I love the Artist Village area. I love Chapter One. I’ll always choose this area for good eats and drinks. I never leave disappointed.

We got to Chapter One around 6ish. We were only one of maybe 10 patrons in the restaurant and two of 6 at the bar so needless to say the evening started without much delay. I was able to order immediately as I had reinforced myself at work all day with the Moscow mule…as I teach my kiddos with the exception of the last part – “First work, then Moscow mule.” It was as cool and refreshing as I had been dreaming of all day. My eyes got a treat with the hunky bartender as well.

  

We ordered the etouffee fries (nothing too special) and mac-n-cheese. I do love their mac-n-cheese. The menu holds so so so many fabulous choices that whichever one you choose will most definitely make a party in your mouth. Okay, sidetracked. Onward to dinner. After hearing the special, the American burger, I was intrigued. Candice mentioned to the bartender that I’m a burger critic so it seemed that the gauntlet was thrown down at that moment. I don’t remember much about what’s on the burger as my mind stopped on the fact that the burger is comprised of short rib and two ground meats and topped with pork belly. Hello, I LOVE short rib…short rib anywhere in whatever form.  I will say, the burger was incredible. It was in my top 5. I’m not sure if it still was when I received the check and saw that it was $17.00. Seriously?!? What burger cost $17?!?! Obviously, that one does. That price left a bad taste in my mouth. If the burger was not that delicious, I would be upset. I just was not expecting the price. 

As the night went on, the happy hour crowd left and the dinner crowd rolled in which was comprised of small groups and couples. Another bartender came on board as well. As the bar area became more crowded, our service began to wane. The bartender made eye contact from time to time but didn’t check in as often as we’d hoped. My energy for hitting the Copper Door downstairs dwindled while waiting around for service and the check.

All in all, my love affair with Chapter One will continue. Everyone should try this place.

I haven’t been yet, but I hear Sunday brunch is killer with $5 mimosas (all you can drink) with your meal. That’s next on my agenda for this area, but hold the burger, I could drink two more Moscow mules for that price. =)

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★☆☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

SFactor: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Candice: 

I have been to the Santa Ana Artist Village area only twice before and I still feel the same about it…it is great! It seems to always have a pretty good vibe and although I do not consider myself all that artsy and trendy, I certainly love admiring all the hipsters that come to hang out.  We arrived at Chapter One at a decent time and although it was a bit quiet, Danielle and I knew we were taking our chances given that it was the start of a holiday weekend and likely a hit or miss on the crowd.  As I sat down and was greeted by the bartender…stop. Helloooo good looking. (I even got a bit shy and speechless for a moment and thought this is going to be an entertaining evening regardless of what crowd rolls in.) I couldn’t seem to select a drink off of their very overwhelming list of beverages so instead, opted for the bartender’s choice (fantastic concoction Drew, thanks!).  Apparently the first drink that was made was named “Drew’s cucumber” or so the receipt indicated.  LOL, enough said.  However, it was an absolutely perfectly crafted drink in that it was delicate and well-balanced in flavor.   

Danielle and I started with a little mac-n-cheese and etouffee fries (kind of a fancy version of chili fries) as our tapas and neither really disappointed.  Although Danielle swears by their mac-n-cheese, it was indeed tasty but ranks in my just average range. I moved on to the “Potato Pear” as my meal (had to save room for dessert!) which was truly exceptional.  I was a supporter of all the ingredients individually and when it was combined together so elegantly, mmmm, divine!  I probably could have licked the plate clean.  Talk about a plump portion of flavorful mashed potato that is panko crusted and shaped like a mini pear… then placed neatly upon a bed of savory marsala cream sauce with chunks of wild mushroom mixed within the sauce. 

To satiate my palate I ended on the “Chocolate Pate” which, being a huge fan of Belgium chocolate I was slightly disappointed by the overall combination of flavors.  The chocolate was rich but nothing all that distinctive in flavor as Belgian chocolate can and should be.  The butter biscuits were my favorite on the plate but they seemed to be just a more delicate version of the tasty shortbread cookies made by Walker.  However overall, the menu selection is truly fantastic and I was pleased in general with what I ordered.

The small hip crowd earlier in the evening dwindled away quickly and the later crowd that materialized seemed more representative of the Santa Ana inhabitants and of a more dominant ethnic population.  As extremely attentive and appealing as our bartender was earlier in the evening, his demeanor also morphed and disappointingly, our needs quickly became neglected.  Don’t get me wrong, I recognize that attention needs to be divided among all patrons as well as the fact that as the restaurant picks up and bar orders are in high demand, there is obviously less time to devote to individual patrons.  However, has anyone ever seen Danielle (I mean us girls) drink?!? We are thirsty (and okay fine I admit, one of us, hungry) girls. As attractive and bewitching as I found the bartender, I still would appreciate just enough consideration so that I could at least place my dessert order (I had to draw the attention of the other bartender) and/or be offered another beverage perhaps?  Oh well.  Although the ending was a bit of a let down, I am grateful that I can amuse myself with the simple reminiscing of the earlier part of the evening of hanging with a  hipster crowd and bantering with a striking bartender.  I’ll take it as a good kick-start to my three-day weekend.  

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★☆☆ (had to average in the end of the evening)

Price: ★★★★☆

Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

SFactor: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

The Corner Office (Costa Mesa)

Danielle:

 

Candice and I ventured out to The Corner Office in hopes of finding better luck on a Thursday (based on conversations with guys on the “the best” night for happy hour—and well, I had Friday plans). When we got there, it looked like the “after work” crowd was beginning to dissipate and new patrons were rolling in for the Clippers and Kings games. We found our way to the bar and a “regular” helped us find 2 spots together. Thank God that he was there or we may never have been noticed. When the bartender walked over, we assumed that perhaps it would be to see what we wanted since her area of the bar was not crowded. Instead, she made a straight line for the “regular.” He nodded for her to take care of us first. In strange ways, chivalry is not dead. The funny part was that when she returned she made sure to serve him first. He left shortly after, and our service left with him. [Guys, I know, you’ve been dealing with this for years at bars, watching all the ladies be served and I don’t agree with that either.] We waited foooooooorrrrrreeeeeevvvvvvveeeeer to gain her attention to order another beer and inquire about food. We were never even offered a menu or asked if we planned to eat.

I ordered the nachos. It doesn’t even really warrant much text. They were sub-par even being bar food. 

I think the venue is great and I will return for another night of sports. Several options were available for sitting at the bar, around the bar, at high top tables on the outskirts of the bar, or at booths that had small TVs.  It seems the perfect spot for watching sports. There’s also an outside patio area with a nice courtyard view of local businesses. I’ll definitely go back (with a penis in tow or with assurance that guys are already there in hopes that I’ll be quickly served and hydrated). 

Food: ★☆☆☆☆

Service: ★☆☆☆☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

SFactor: ★★☆☆☆ (on this particular night, but potential is good)

Overall: ★★★☆☆ (2.5)

Candice:

So, this was probably the first time I actually made it to happy hour before Danielle, and with much encouragement via texts, she made me step out of my comfort zone and walk into a bar by myself to look for seats.  I did and <insert chuckle> it was probably an extreme situation to test myself given the ratio of men to women was like 15 to 1.  It was quite nice to have so many eyes on me at once and luckily the bar was dimly lit enough to hide the color of my face going from pale to all shades of red.  Although the crowd was “sparse” given it was a Thursday and both the Kings and Clippers were playing, I think this place has plenty of potential during a bigger sports night.  Most of the TV’s were showing the Kings game and based on the crowd reaction to the game I am guessing most of the customers were Kings fans.  As for the venue itself, it is quite large and spacious and I particularly liked the open space area near the patio facing what looked like a hotel and its grassy flourishing grounds.  The food was definitely on the pitiful side, even for bar food standards and the menu presented a meager array of options.  But what was even more inexcusable was the service, or shall I say total lack of.  SERIOUSLY. What does a girl have to do to get the attention of the bartender??! Thankfully, a very nice gentleman not only offered to move down a barstool so that Danielle and I could sit next to each other, but he also directed the attention of the bartender to us when she approached him to chat with him.  For all the restaurants and bars that I have done blogs (and even non-blogs), this bartender (yes, you the petite brunette who doesn’t like to make eye contact with women even when we say “excuse me” to get your attention) has got to be one of the worst I have yet to encounter when it comes to service.  And, when we finally did get our drinks and food, there was nothing courteous in her demeanor.  Some of you might be thinking I am being a little harsh because hey, she might be having an off day, but when we observed her interactions with the male patrons at the bar, then I think I may even be generous in my description.  So, with the exception of the impolite bartender, this place definitely has possibilities on a bigger game night.  Although the probability of us returning is slim, I would recommend you ladies stopping by for a visit if only just to enjoy the advantage of the ratio disparity.

Food: ★☆☆☆☆

Service: ★☆☆☆☆

Price: ★★☆☆☆

Ambience: ★★★☆☆

SFactor: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★☆☆☆

SOL Cocina Mexican

Danielle

I’ve been putting off visiting SOL because I felt like it may have the same crowd as its neighbor, 3-Thirty-3. Because we are dedicated to finding the best happy hours despite it being our style or preferred area, I suggested Sol. I have heard great things about it, but again, I just didn’t want to see “that crowd” all over again.

Immediately, I loved the openness and décor of the establishment. It seemed to just be picking up when we arrived but we easily found a high top table for 2 in the middle of the bar area. There’s also a nicely sized bar, some larger tables for groups in the bar area, and an outside patio (fantastic) over the water. Happy hour is offered daily—DAILY!—and lasts from 4-7PM. I was impressed by both the options and prices on the menu. 

We ordered the naked guacamole, pork carnitas street tacos, and panuchos (their twist on empanadas). The food was delicious, and the portions were ample for the cost. It rivaled happy hour portions/cost at places like El Torito Grill, but the taste and variety were way better.

The S-Factor? Well, it was getting geared up as we headed off to peek at 3-Thirty-3. When we came back by to pick up our cars, it looked quite busy. I’d like to go back there and stay through the night to see the crowd. As we left, two cute guys went in. They looked the nice nerdy-but-cute type which we both like so we should have popped in behind them but the toll of a long rough week with an extra day of work had taken its toll and my desire to lie in bed and watch TV prevailed.

I’m voting this a “must do happy hour.”

On a side note: we made it to 3-Thirty-3 just in time to miss happy hour. We looked at the menu anyway and it seemed Sol was the better spot for a happy hour menu. We found a spot at the bar and settled in for some noteworthy people watching. The crowd was young—20s and 30s with a sprinkling of older gentlemen and cougars. Sadly, the merging of groups or “coupling up” was predictable. Again, why Orange County, are you so into that high maintenance look (boobs + blonde hair)?!  Our bartender was handsome and reminded me of a younger hotter Javier Bardem but he still couldn’t salvage this place for me. I'd only hit SOL out of this duo.

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★★☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★★★

SFactor: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

 naked guacamole

 panuchos--I loved all the "stuff" on top

 street tacos

For more information on SOL, click here. 

Candice

 

This was my first exploration to SOL Mexican Cucina, off of Pacific Coast Highway in Newport.  The bar area was quite spacious and traditionally adorned with Mexican décor and colors.  There was an abundant amount of natural light throughout the entire room and plentiful number of tables and stools scattered about.  The crowd numbers remained fairly consistent throughout the short period we lingered around and it was a nice mix of ages and ethnicities and about an even gender division.  My drink choice for this first stop of our happy hour was the frozen margarita.  I was forewarned it came pre-mixed but that it was not to disappoint.  In fact, although I typically do not appreciate pre-made mixes all that much, it was in fact quite flavorful and had just the right amount of kick in it to sustain its refresh quality.  Our palates enjoyed plates of naked guacamole, street tacos, and panuchos.  The food was not superior but it was equal to its value.  I liked their version of chips and dip and their tiny three-choice platter of sauces that I unfortunately did not know what to do with since our waitress was not all that interested in being of assistance throughout our stay.  Regardless of the lack of service, I would likely return here if I came with a larger group of people and was interested in snacking decent Mexican dishes and frozen margaritas. 

Food: ★★★☆☆

Service: ★★☆☆☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

S Factor: ★★☆☆☆

From SOL we decided to head over on to 333 and check out the early night scene.  I have been to this restaurant previously for an early dinner, but never stayed around to watch the later night crowd roll in.  I enjoyed the friendly banter with one of the bartenders and was amused throughout the evening of what seemed like the stereotypical “Orange County” scene.  I was certainly not dressed to impress as our original intention was to hit SOL straight after work… so I huddled in my hoodie and preferred to behold the attempts by various male and female suitors to woo one another.  Okay, admittedly that was entertaining.  I was impressed by the number of matches that were made so quickly and somewhat engrossed by the end pairing results.  As I exited, to be quite frank, I was glad to be nondescript and was satisfied to end yet another uncomplicated happy hour adventure.

Side Door (CDM)

Danielle

I went to Side Door a long time ago when I was waiting for my reservation at Five Crowns. I instantly fell in love with the ambiance and just the fact that there was a charcuturie station! I was reminded of the place recently by a co-worker who had gone on a Saturday night and said that the crowd was young and the bar was bustling. I knew we had to investigate. For purposes of time and scheduling, we wound up going on a Friday to see what it looks like for after work/early evening as dinner approached since the crowd usually changes around that transition. 

I got there first to get the best seat in the house…the booth along the wall across from the bar. I was immediately greeted by the server who was very friendly and attentive. I love the menu here as it spans from typical bar food to healthier options. It also offers heavier food to lighter options like cheese/meat options. Oh, and with that charcuterie station nearby, one must try a meat and cheese plate right?!?! There are several beers to choose from and one cool option is to build your own flight. With this flight, you can get them all at once (as Candice and our friend Heather did) or separately when you are ready, which  I did. The server knew what type of beer I liked so I had her surprise me with different kinds that she thought I may like. I love trying new things and being surprised with suggestions. The food was delicious. I had the meat/cheese tray which was fabulous.

I love the ambiance here. The bar is small with limited seating but there are booths in the open, booths that are tucked away to provide utmost privacy, and a dimly-lit backroom with a variety of seating. 

I would not say that we saw the best sample of single men. Many were accompanied by women but I’d like to stick around longer next time and see who comes in as the couples head off to their dinner dates. As the night evening progressed, the dresses got shorter and boobs larger in true Cougar style, which for me, provided the best entertainment and chuckles. The sad part (and what seems to be the norm)? They got picked up by men. What is it with you, Orange County? Why is this? I’ll always shake my head and will never understand. 

I also think this spot would be good for a quick drink/dinner after work, solo or with friends, on a week night. It may provide better opportunity for chatting with other patrons at the bar who are also passing through. Because it’s a gastropub with a constant flow of Old Speckled Hen, maybe you’ll even find yourself chatting with a Brit. Aah, the thought of that accent makes my mind drift elsewhere….

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★★☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambience: ★★★★★

SFactor: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

Candice

Side Door in Corona Del Mar is a cozy, English style gastropub that was surprisingly quite distinct from the Five Crowns Restaurant that shares its entryway. Although there is no happy hour at this pub, Danielle and I nevertheless thought we would pay a visit to this place and be witness to what kind of evening might typically unfold.  We arrived early enough for a great viewing spot (those of you readers who do follow us – are we not yet predictable in finding the best seats in the house to do our research?!?), and settled in when there was hardly a crowd gathered.  We had an additional friend as our guest (welcome Heather!) and started the evening with some drinks and small plates.  The place is nicely lit in the pub sort of way and there were multiple high tables and chairs behind the counter of the bar area.  There was also additional room for seating in the more private section of the pub restaurant, but I was not compelled to explore the area beyond simply looking.  Laura our sever, was very attentive especially in the beginning but understandably as the evening wore on and the crowd grew we saw her less and less.  On the menu, there was a nice option for a beer flight sampler and it was enjoyable to try a variety of four ounce flavors.  If anyone enjoys light beer but with an unusually powerful “grapey” flavor (peculiar, I am aware), then I highly recommend the Anchor California Lager, which is now on my list of favorites of beers I have tried.  The food was also quite appetizing and I ordered one of their signature bites, The Side Door Avocado Mash and was not the least bit disappointed.  I also partook in consuming some Sugar Snap Peas which, although I am not a particular fan of snap peas, I would say was also gently, but well flavored, and perfectly cooked to enhance the crisp of the vegetable.  

As for the crowd, it certainly picked up within a matter of time.  By 8pm it was standing room only and a rush to claim seats as people departed and more people arrived.  Overall, I always seem to enjoy the patrons of Corona Del Mar because there is always a nice mixture of age ranges with most guests in likely their 30’s.  There were of course some interesting individuals that I am certain raised a few eyebrows, but we were still mingling amongst the early crowd so it remained drama free.  We left shortly thereafter to walk around the area and check out other places, but I would certainly return to Side Door based on this experience, and maybe next time linger just awhile longer to see what kind of late entertainment would fetch in at this kind of establishment. 

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★★☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambience: ★★★★☆

SFactor: ★★☆☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆

 

Newport Brew Co

Danielle

I’m always leery going into Newport because for me, it is hit or miss with the crowd and "scene." However, since it was the play-offs/Final Four, I suggested Newport Brew Co in hopes of finding a lively crowd and bar food. 

We got there right about the time that one game was ending so options for seats were limited but we did find a seat in a great location inside for “people watching.” [There is a patio in the front which seems perfect for a nice afternoon.] The crowd was great—a mixture of all sorts of people of different ages. I love the camaraderie of sports fans during play-off games. We brainstormed a way to meet more new people and find out more for our single readers—a mini interview for men! It gives us a way to break into sausage fests crowds of men and get the scoop. We get to meet new people and find out the “scoop” from a variety of guys. Win-win! We tried it out on our first subject—thanks Mike for obliging us inaugural interview!

As for as food goes, it was as expected in terms of "bar food." The nachos with chicken were great. I’m a wings critic and was unfortunately left unimpressed with the wings at this spot. The service was fabulous and we were well taken care of by Dave. 

My experience was a bit skewed. I left annoyed as one male patron wouldn’t quite depart from my side quickly enough at all. I was offended by him from the get-go. First of all, he bought me a drink which was very nice. I appreciate this gesture and have done it once myself (perfect way to hint and put out “feelers”), but there are unwritten rules that accompany this gesture (in my opinion). When you buy a drink for someone, there are no expectations. The guy came over and chatted. I thanked him for such a nice gesture. He asked a few questions to which I answered. I wasn’t interested but I love chatting with new people. Then, the offense happened. For some reason he said “you sound like you don’t know what you want out of life.” What?!?! For those who know me well, I know EXACTLY what I’m doing –far more than most people. I don’t remember all the details of the convo because at that moment I shut off mentally and was bored with this individual. I’m not sure how he “profiled” me from a few minimal answers to his superficial inappropriate questions. Men, don’t make blanket statements to people you don’t know. What ever happened to normal convo? How could that assumption be made 5 minutes into a conversation? I’m sorry, I’m not your average blond perched up on a barstool in Newport Beach so proceed with intellect please. Later, I was getting ready to leave and he looked irritated that I was leaving a full beer. Apparently, he bought me another (without my permission) while I was in the bathroom. Based on this experience, I’m reminded of what I feel the “rules” are with this:

• Send over the drink with no expectations. Allow the other person to come thank you when he or she is ready. If he/she doesn’t, forget this rude person.
• You may even ask the bartender to send what SHE (or the person of interest) is drinking—not your drink of choice.
• Before buying a 2^nd one, ask permission. Don’t get disgruntled if the person does not want another drink or isn’t in the mood to drive home drunk. It may not have anything to do with you, but you don’t want the person feeling obligated to drink it just because it’s there. Maybe don’t buy a 2^nd one—you also don’t want to be someone’s drink caddy and be used. 

All in all, it was a fun experience and I’d go back again on a sunny afternoon and sit on the patio. 

Food: ★★★☆☆

Service: ★★★★★

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

SFactor: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Candice

Okay, so this was not our traditional Thursday or Friday night happy hour excursion, but Danielle and I considered the type of patrons that would attend the Final Four NCAA Basketball game- and additionally I wanted to be amongst those rooting for my Buckeyes (sorry Buckeyes, it was close!)- so we opted for a blog research makeup on a Saturday afternoon during the games.  Brace yourselves my fellow readers, this may be one of the juiciest I have to offer you yet…

For starters, as I walked in just past the entrance of the door from the parking lot, the scene did not disappoint from the get-go.  Sure, there were men and women of varying age ranges, but more importantly, plenty of testosterone seeping among the crowd.  Fortunately, we found a nice little bar area to seat ourselves and view the incoming and outgoing crowd for the remainder of our lengthy evening ahead.  We settled in during the transition between games and watched as one crowd rolled out and the other rolled in.  Just a quick interjection of the food…well, we are at a sports bar so my expectations were not all that high.  The food did its job to fill my stomach and coat it well as I took in plentiful rounds of cider.  We ordered the Brewery Nachos with chicken and I gambled on the Original Chocolate Calzone.  Admittedly, I would likely choose alternative starters and specialties should I return.  Anyway, back to the more entertaining portion of the evening.  I would say that based on our history of happy hour blog “research,” sporting event times at a sports bar or similar bar seems to consistently provide the best viewing opportunities.  This was a particularly enjoyable evening for me as I seemed to be captivated by a particular few.  The room was full of energy, the crowd was lively, our service was wonderful (thanks Dave!), and I was enjoying keeping my eye on the game. 

As the night wore on, Danielle and I decided it was time to develop a mini-interview for men so as to assist with our ability to better serve our blog readers.  I was sitting at the end of the bar and Danielle was fortunate enough to sit next to a very polite and mellow guy who was willing to be our first interviewee (thanks for the help Mike!).  We managed to obtain our necessary answers and the evening wore on with further developments of conversation amongst patrons, including a pleasant conversation that I held with our first interviewee.  Needless to say, maybe I was biased that he was an Ohioan, but I was also struck by his sincere character, mellow demeanor, down-to earth sense of humor, and of course striking appearance, but… I have been “trained” since moving out to California to not hold my breath especially when something may be too good of a thing.  (And for those of you who are interested how this story progresses, given that I am writing this blog well in hindsight, it is with disappointment that I say that it was a good thing I was trained well…).  It did get a little juicy for me a bit in between my state of awe and wonder and then to disappointment, but I am currently back to delving into the single scene of happy hours.  Overall though, it was a good night to be out and about and it did something to both spark my soul and re-energize my spirit in hopes that someday, somewhere, I will be fortunate to finally meet that genuine individual who simply won’t let me hold my breath anymore…

Food: ★★★☆☆

Service: ★★★★★

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambience: ★★★★☆

SFactor: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆

Crow Bar (CDM)

Danielle

Well, it never takes much convincing to get me into the Crow Bar for a burger and a beer. I love the burgers here, and I am a burger critic. We went on a whim on a Tuesday even though it wasn’t “happy hour.” At Crow Bar, though, most every hour is happy.

As usual, there was a nice crowd with a constant in-flow of people (later: mostly couples). We picked the high top tables in the middle---a perfect spot for perusing the room and possibly having some good company share the table with you. We did have a group of guys share the table, but of course, most were married; however, with our luck at having happy hours with NO men present, I was pleased just to have nearby testosterone which later provided its own entertainment. Throughout our time there, there was a decent flow of young suitable men.

I tried the appetizer of meatballs. Blech. How could I not love these when I love the burger so much? I got the burger with sweet potato fries. I love this burger. It is my favorite (depending on the day, it runs neck & neck with Umami). For dessert, I had the “not just a ding dong.” Why not? Isn’t that name fabulous and fitting with our happy hour? Well, as our happy hour jaunts usually are, it WAS just another ding dong—nothing spectacular, only entertaining. Note to self: skip the 'balls and ding dong and just stick to the basics.

I still vote that this may be hit-or-miss depending on the day but usually a great spot for potential “good guy” spottings.

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★★☆

Price: ★★★★☆

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

S-Factor: ★★★☆☆

Overall:  ★★★★☆

Candice

It always amazes me how there is a finite ebb and flow of how “happy hour” times operate.  Danielle and I always arrive just before the onset in order to get a good viewing spot, watch as the happy hour crowd rolls through, and then just as fast as they arrive, the masses dissipate and on comes the dinner and date crowd.  Although this blog research event occurred on a Tuesday and there is no happy hour at Crow Bar, the unfolding of events was still rather predictable.  

Danielle and I have been to this restaurant on multiple occasions simply because of our craving for their absolutely divine burgers.  We typically sit at their long tables in the center of the room, which provides opportunities to sit close to some potential prospects.  Regardless of the crowd for the evenings we are present, the burger always makes up for any loss and I would certainly return just to satisfy my craving.  Although we dined on a Tuesday, there was still a substantial crowd that arrived with a very appealing mix of age ranges.  There was a small group of men that sat nearby however three of five were taken as evidenced by their wedding rings.  Although I would not consider the other two potentially available men as my “type” to smile politely and act flirtatious as I was overhearing a portion of their conversation about women, I was so amused I could not resist but lean in a little closer to hear what they had to say.  I guess I was surprised – I do not know why really – to hear the married men offer advice to the single ones and talk about how to meet women, how they met their wives, and what they would and would not change about their romantic interludes.  I mean obviously it is not just women who struggle to find a compatible mate but I guess I just did not consider that some men may as well be equally frustrated.  I do not understand why finding the right guy has to be so difficult…is it so that when you finally do, perhaps it allows you to be ever more appreciative and grateful for how fortunate you are to finally have met that special someone?

Food: ★★★★☆

Service: ★★★★☆

Price: ★★★★☆

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

S-Factor: ★★★☆☆

Overall:  ★★★★☆

McCormick & Schmick's (Irvine)

Danielle

We just HAD to go somewhere to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Eve so we chose McCormick &  Schmick's since we had them on the list of places to visit for a while. The bar was somewhat occupied when we arrived, but it quickly dispersed soon after as people seemingly finished up “post work drinks” and headed out. The food was okay. We got corned beef sliders. I LOVE corned beef. I was disappointed with the meat being too tough to really eat it as a sandwich since it would string out and be hard to bite. 

 

We loved the sweet potato fries (really, how can you go wrong with this one?) and artichoke dip. For some reason, the picture of the fries with the one plunging in first makes me chuckle. Easily amused? Usually.

 

There weren’t really any young single men on this night at this location. Since it was a bust for single men, we decided to head over to a spot that would for sure provide entertainment…..Durty Nelly’s. Sorry, what happens at Durty Nelly's stays at Durty Nelly's.

Food: ★★☆☆☆

Service: ★★★☆☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

S Factor: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆

Candice

Ahhh. What a better way to kick start the pre-St. Patricks’s Day weekend than happy hour fun at McCormick & Schmick's.  This was my first time at the Irvine location and I was pleasantly surprised by the spacious bar area.  The place was nicely decorated with holiday paraphernalia which added to the festive ambiance.  I was slightly disappointed by the numbers of the crowd given that it was Friday and a pre-holiday weekend but a few of the male patrons were of noteworthy observation and worthy of conversation among our table.  Danielle, myself, and an additional friend (serving as our wing woman) sat at a bar table at a bit of distance from the bar itself.  In hindsight, I think as great as a view that provides for the overall area and for the evening that lies ahead, it does not help with opening up opportunities for small talk with “neighbors”.  Regardless, we set ourselves up for some St. Patrick Day sliders, sweet potato fries, and spinach dip.  I partook in drinking my black velvet and our pre-celebratory evening began.  The food was typical bar food – really, what did you expect? and our server was attentive and friendly.  Nothing all that exciting to share this time…so we moved our party elsewhere and onward to Durty Nelly’s.

Food: ★★★☆☆

Service: ★★★☆☆

Price: ★★★☆☆

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

S Factor: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★☆☆