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Travel Costa Mesa Blog

Archive for January, 2013

SoBeCa District Art Walk at the LAB and the CAMP in Costa Mesa

Posted on January 30, 2013 | 10:40am

The first Art Walk of 2013 drew large crowds of people, eager to see original art and live entertainment, to the SoBeCa district in Costa Mesa last night.  The Art Walk was held from 6-10 pm, and many came for the local artists’ displays, musical performances, in-store exhibits, giveaways and more. Read More

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Posted in Events, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play

Indie Bands Sea Wolf and The Donnies The Amys Perform at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Posted on January 29, 2013 | 12:23pm

Indie bands Sea Wolf and The Donnies The Amys played to a full house in Founders Hall at Segerstrom Center for the Arts last night for the Off Center Festival.

The festival features comedy, dance and theater, however, last night’s performance was dedicated to fans of live music.  Audience members were treated to a night of talented musicians performing in an intimate venue.  For those who have not seen a show in Founders Hall, visit the SCFTA website and get tickets, because the theater is a great venue for any performance.  Although it seems more fitting for a night of improv acting, Founders Hall was perfectly suited to host the folk rockers. Read More

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Posted in Events, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play

Off Center Festival 2013 Kicks-Off with Indie Rock in the Samueli Theater

Posted on January 23, 2013 | 1:28pm

The 2013 Off Center Festival at Segerstrom Center for the Arts kicked-off last night with a rocking performance from Rival Sons and opening act Robert Jon and the Wreck.  The Samueli Theater was packed with indie rock fans eager to see a dynamic performance. Read More

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Posted in Events, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play

Costa Mesa Culinary Destinations: The OC Mix & SoCo Collection

Posted on January 21, 2013 | 1:12pm

The OC Mix is unlike any other shopping center in Orange County. Located just a few miles from South Coast Plaza, at the SoCo Collection in Costa Mesa, lies a gathering of over 25 vibrant retail stores, one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants and bars, all with an emphasis on local products and services.

The OC Mix has grown to become one of the leading shopping destinations in Orange County.  With an eclectic gathering of shops and eateries, the MIX draws crowds from all over Southern California.  The OC Mix also hosts several events throughout the year and hosts Orange County’s best farmers’ market each Saturday.  The OC MIX may still be the best kept secret in Orange County, but with its growing popularity, it is quickly turning the OC Mix into a cultural hub. Read More

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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Misc, Play

Top 10 Places for a Hot Beverage in Costa Mesa

Posted on January 15, 2013 | 12:34pm

The recent weather has had us bundled up a little more than usual because it’s not too often that the thermometer dips below 40 in Orange County.  Because of the chill in the air, we’ve been drinking more coffee, tea and hot chocolate.  Our hunt for hot beverages was the inspiration for our list of the best places in Costa Mesa to help you combat the cold with a steaming cup or warmth.

1.  Portola Coffee Lab is a playground for the most skilled baristas in Orange County.  To try an espresso, coffee or any creative offering available is to try the best handcrafted beverage available.   The Lab is the dream, or rather, the physical manifestation of owner Jeff Duggan’s passion/obsession with coffee.  Each staff member is an expert on everything coffee.  From the type of bean, roasting process, brewing process or presentation, they will have an answer for any question you may have.  The décor is not sleepy like most coffee houses, but a vibrant green.  Everything is upbeat and friendly.  And, being that it is a lab, baristas creating drinks wear lab coats.

Portola Coffee Lab by Anne Watson

Courtesy of Anne Watson

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Posted in Food, Locals, Misc, Play