Content area
Full Text
Restaurant Features Huge Wine and Cheese Selections; Try the One-of-a-Kind BLT Sandwich
EXECUTIVE DINING
Taking advantage of ocean views while dining certainly puts an explanation point on the California lifestyle.
I've never been star struck so seeing famous faces doesn't faze me. But I am forever in awe of Orange County's beautiful dining settings.
Recently, restaurant aficionado and public relations maven par excellence Lee Healy joined me for lunch at The Loft at the Montage Resort & Spa in Laguna Beach.
I was trying to eat more things from the newest menu and it was a good opportunity to compare lots of industry notes with Lee. She's a former PR and marketing guru with the El Torito and Johnny Rockets chains.
Now Lee is truly a tuned in person with her own firm. You can imagine all the restaurants and chefs we discussed that day.
The Loft was a perfect place to eat with just the right amount of chic surroundings, interesting food and terrific service. It has more casual notes than the ultra sophisticated and high end Studio, which is the hotel's signature restaurant in its own building fronting the ocean.
Those in the culinary world who haven't dined at Studio long to, while who have eaten there talk in superlatives. Sometimes The Loft gets mentioned during these conversations. I'm always reminding someone to take this restaurant just as seriously as Studio and to enjoy it and its indoor or outdoor views over the pool, expanse of lawn and ocean beyond all day long. Studio, on the other hand, is only open for dinner.
With white cloth service, lovely furnishings in a modernized Craftsman-style, signature table amenities and even a bistro-style bar in one section. The Loft is a stylish enclave adequate for real relaxation.
Because it is a place that also is serious about wine, I never tire of studying the wine list that's stocked with a lot of emphasis on California, Oregon, Washington and New York state goodies.
It's noteworthy that the Montage boasts about 35,000 bottles of wine that are cellared, so both Studio and The Loft have their own lists. This one has...