Sometimes we just want good food at a good price. No curated menu, no farm-to-table story, no 20% tip at the end. Just tacos!
Restaurants
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We tiki-hopped across Orange County to rank every bar — from Anaheim’s shipwrecked Strong Water to Laguna’s Royal Hawaiian. Plus, where to score 69¢ tacos, the Sea Country Festival in Laguna Niguel, and a glowing bioluminescence cruise in Dana Point.
Newsletter
From Polynesian escapes to nautical speakeasies and retro mid-century hideouts, here’s what makes each Orange County tiki bar unique.
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Laguna Beach has its tiki magic back. Step inside the Royal Hawaiian and you’re surrounded by walls of bamboo and thatch, carved totems in every corner, glowing starfish lamps overhead, and cocktails are the perfect balance of strong and smooth.
After years of ups and downs, the Royal Hawaiian has reclaimed its Polynesian spirit.
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We hosted our first-ever Summer in South OC Sugar Cookie Showdown, where 50+ bakers were nominated. The cookies weren’t just pretty—they were like little love letters to Orange County.
These Sugar Cookies Are Tiny Works of Art
Bakery
How one local baker turned social media fame into the best pastry shop in Orange County. Plus, lanterns floating at sunset, beers poured by the harbor and walking in nature.
Instagram Made Him Famous—But the Pastries Made Him a Legend. Welcome to Diotima Bakehouse in Mission Viejo.
