by tony reverditto A FINE ROMANCE
TOP FIVE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DINING ADVENTURES
STUDIO AT THE MONTAGE There are two words that best describe Studio:
five stars! A most memorable evening began with a spectacular sunset view from a bluff overlook- ing Laguna Beach’s Pacific coast and just kept getting progressively better. We were greeted by the insightful Assistant Manager Tyler Hathaway. Based on his description, I knew we were about to experience something special. Executive Chef Craig Strong, known for his mod-
ern French cuisine with California influences, was next to visit the table. He informed us that our first course would be Lobster and Winter Vegetables, thinly sliced persimmon topped with truffle vin- aigrette, delicious to say the least. Our prodigious Sommelier Nina Rosas conveyed the first pairing, a Thomas Morey, La Truffiere Burgundy, France 2010—it was perfection. Every presentation thereafter was thoughtfully paired, each coupling surpassing the previous; Duck Confit Cocoa Ravoli, red wine-poached pear and sage blossoms paired with Querciabella Chianti Classico, Tus- cany, Italy 2009; Spotted Tail Sea Bass, sugar snap peas, pearl onions, beurre rouge sauce served with Fox Farm Pinot Noir, Williamette Valley, Oregon 2011; Chorizo Spiced Pork Loin, Brussels sprouts, grapes, dates, yam puree, with a Turley Zinfandel, Old Vines, California 2011; Malvarosa, zucchini, pepper coulis, pine nuts paired with Bodegas Riojanas, Vina Albina, Rioja, Spain 2001. The final course was Chestnut Apple Flan, Macintosh apples, natural yogurt foam, Calvados brandy, with a Cateau Dauphine-Rondillion, Louplac, Bordeaux, France 2005. Words cannot describe the sheer ecstasy of this romantic experience. Studio is located at 30801 South Coast Highway in Laguna Beach. For more information or to make reservations call 949.715.6420 or go
tostudiolagunabeach.com.
SIR WINSTON’S AT THE
QUEEN MARY The majestic The Queen Mary is one of the most
romantic adventures around. We were in awe of the incredible views and reflected cityscape as we strolled the decks, as we ascended to the upper- most portion of the ship. Sir Winston’s cozy quixotic
64 RAGE monthly | FEBRUARY 2014 studio at the montage
sir winston’s at the queen mary
dining area, I was fascinated to find out from the General Manager, J.B., was originally the engineer’s sleeping quarters were transformed back in 1972. As we looked over the menu, we could feel the
spirit and romance of all of those who had dined be- fore us; John enjoying a glass of the Josh Sauvignon Blanc and I a fresh house Margarita. We decided to share the traditional yet snappy Shrimp Cocktail and the restaurant’s divine, melt-in-your-mouth Sautéed Scallops. The enchantingLobster Bisque captured the true essence of its main ingredient with perfect texture and refined flavor followed by a delightful Champagne Sorbet palate cleanser. The experienced wait staff masterfully presented our entrées; pistachio-encrusted Rack of Lamb with asparagus, green beans, roasted potato, garlic jus and the Beef Wellington, drizzled with
yamashiro
truffle sauce and served with asparagus, roasted tomatoes and truffle mashed potatoes. Both were succulent and oh-so-tender. The finale was a choice between the Chocolate or Grand Marnier Soufflé, the latter of which I chose. Served piping hot, it was a dreamy, creamy ending to our evening. Sir Winston’s is located on The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway in Long Beach. For more information or to make reservations call 562.499.1657 or go to
queenmary.com.
YAMASHIRO The hilltop mansion, Yamashiro whose Japanese
translation equates to “Mountain Palace,” is nestled 250 feet above Hollywood Boulevard. Completed in 1914 by the Bernheimer Brothers, the historical fortress was constructed by hundreds of craftsmen imported from the Orient to replicate the original
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