“Cafe society” refers to the see-and-be-seen activities of those frequenting fashionable restaurants. Idle pursuits? Not the “see” part. Although observing the interactions of others can be entertaining, people-watching can also lead to reflection, insights and even a connection with the human experience. Lots of restaurants offer a view. Few offer a window onto the world.
CUCINA ENOTECA
Happy shoppers crisscross the plaza outside Cucina Enoteca at Irvine Spectrum Center. Couples chat on chairs in shaded lawn areas. Families head for the movies. Two oversized patios at the restaurant complement its dining room and bar. The one with a twinkle-lit olive tree and throw pillows offers an especially stylish vantage onto the comings and goings.
Inside, Cucina Enoteca evokes modern coastal kitchen, rustic farmhouse and more than a touch of whimsy. Boutique wines for sale just inside the door are presented geographically – e.g., “reds here,” “reds there” and “reds everywhere.”
Regional chef Cesar Sarmiento’s creative California-Italian menu presents indulgent house‑made pastas, innovative pizzas and piadina sandwiches, creative large plates, celebrated cheese and salumi programs as well as elevated antipasti and sweets.
SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI
The scene at Woodbridge Village Center’s Sessions West Coast Deli: Families gather on the grass beyond its patio; kids climb a spectacular rope-play structure; babies sleep in strollers; friends meet in nearby seating. Picturesque North Lake is accessed by a bridge.
Sessions offers sandwich riffs inspired by family recipes, vibrant ingredients and timely trends. The signature vegetarian Summer Zephyr brings fresh mozzarella, marinated tomato and pickled onions. The Spicy Crispy Crunchy Chicken tops Chef Max’s Favorites. Salad? Thai Chop. New: flatbreads, including the Pepperoni Pyre with pepperoni cups, mozzarella, hot honey and Korean red pepper flakes.
ZOV’S BISTRO
Zov’s Bistro at Orchard Hills Shopping Center is a neighborhood spot, a place where the upscale community gathers. Guests enter via a patio with views of mature olive trees and curated landscaping.
“They walk in, and they see families their kids go to school with,” says Armen Karamardian, son of celebrated chef Zov Karamardian and restaurant group CEO. Known for contemporary Mediterranean fare, Zov’s is a destination. “Guests walk, they ride their bikes,” he says.
Window onto the world? It’s en route!
“My wife and I live 2 miles away; we walk to the center,” Karamardian says. “It’s Irvine. It’s beautiful. Everything is green; the trees are beautiful. We are very lucky to live here.”
