LAGUNA BEACH. Suave and sophisticated, this California-style seafood restaurant attracts Orange County's elite, all clamoring to be part of the scene, whether in the sleek martini bar or at one of the handsomely dressed tables in the main dining room. The menu is known for being as contemporary as the decor. Indeed, starter plates may include anything from ahi tuna tartare with whole-grain mustard to butternut squash soup with clover honey crème fraiche. From there, the true feast begins, and chef Marc Cohen's exceptional entrées are headlined by macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi with mango slaw, blue and black seared peppercorn Hawaiian ahi, and blackened swordfish with carrot ginger syrup.

IRVINE. Sleek and stylish, this establishment is ideal for a romantic night on the town, and live contemporary music adds to the appeal. Within the restaurant, soft light highlights original artwork hanging from earth-toned walls. After whetting your appetite with one of the chef's sublime starters ­ the griddle crab cake and cast iron-seared foie gras earn high marks ­ find delight in innovative New American entrees, which include cordon bleu with cave-aged Swiss cheese, Pacific grilled swordfish, veal sweetbreads, and pork loin stroganoff. A four-course prix fixe menu is available.

LAGUNA BEACH. Perhaps one of the OC's best (and most under-publicized) Californian options, Cafe Zoolu is a true product of its surroundings. Eclectic, funky decor features the bold (zebra-striped seats), the unusual (autographed photos of k.d. Lang and the Kingston Trio), and the outright eccentric (Polynesian-style salt and pepper shakers). Owner-chef Michael Leach's menu, noted for its global appeal, is the true star, made complete with superb potstickers, veal chops, and grilled swordfish that have earned rave reviews from critics and diners alike.

LAGUNA BEACH. This unique joint hearkens back to the days of the Roaring '20s, when big bands, fast times, and even faster living were status quo. Step past the wooden fence and into the front garden, and you'll enter a time warp. Inside, black-and-white photos of early 20th-century stars decorate the charming place. If you find yourself waiting on a table, never fear: Skilled bartenders can throw together any type of martini you desire, and the patio is a great place to hang out and be seen.

DOWNTOWN DISNEY<SUB>®</SUB> DIST. A convenient stop for visitors to the <i>Disneyland</i>_® Resort, La Brea Bakery^TM Café is widely regarded as one of the area's best bakeries. Founder Nancy Silverton's unique recipes range from traditional baguettes and sourdough loaves to specialty sun-dried tomato loaves and rosemary-olive oil loaves. Stop in for lunch, and the counter-person will throw together the best sandwich you've ever had. Better yet, pick up a cup of gourmet coffee and a homemade tart or pastry ­ chocolate almond cake, chocolate whiskey cake, and old-fashioned apple pie are more than acceptable.