Food Diaries

For the past two weeks, I felt as if I was in an off-brand, Walmart version of Eat Pray Love. But rather than packing it up and moving all the way across the world, I was at most 10 miles away from home. There's a certain beauty to food: the technique used to make it, the senses used to evaluate it, and the money spent to savor it. All I know is that the past two week have opened my eyes (and stomach) to some of the tastiest foods within my budget, and potentially yours.

1. Haute Cakes Cafe: Newport Beach, CA

Haute Cakes Cafe

Haute Cakes Cafe

Haute Cakes Cafe has been one of THE best breakfast spots I've been going to for as long as I can remember. What many consider a "hole in the wall" I consider a "go-to" spot for my family and I. Whether it was doctor appointments, soccer games, or even graduations, Haute Cakes Cafe never disappointed after a long morning. From favorites like the All American Scramble and Orange Ricotta Haute Cakes to the Hello Good Morning Sandwich and House Made Granola, Haute Cakes Cafe has countless options to spoil your taste buds. And what's better than yummy food? Spacious (and socially distant) outdoor seating! Haute Cakes Cafe's garden-esque patio makes for the perfect breakfast date, filled with: fresh air, beautiful greenery, and sunlit dining. If you are in need of the outdoors and tasty food, make your way towards Haute Cakes Cafe on Westcliff Drive. I suggest the All American Scramble ;)

2. Mendocino Farms: Costa Mesa, CA

I'm a firm believer in "Eat Good, Feel Good" but there are days when you just NEED to treat yourself. But what if you could have both "Eat Good, Feel Good" food and food that you treat yourself to? Well, that's exactly where Mendocino Farms comes into play. Mendocino Farms is all about options and whether your preferences include: Vegan, Vegetarian, or Gluten Free, their menu has something tasty for you. And whether that's A Sandwich Study of Heat, a"Not So Fried" Chicken or even a Vegan Banh Mi, Mendocino Farms is made to feed and make all happy. (P.S. I suggest A Sandwich Study of Heat).

3. 2145 Eats: Costa Mesa

Now this I call a legitimate "hole in the wall". When I say that 2145 Eats was hard to find, it TRULY was hard to find. Yet again, I guess that's the beauty in finding these places that very few know about. The funny thing is I actually knew the owner before even knowing about this place (Shoutout 602 Regular: Lavender Late Oat + Drip Coffee). If you are looking to switch it up for the night, 2145 Eats is the way to go. With their twists on traditional pizza, there's no doubt you'll be asking for more (at least I did). From specialty pizzas like Prosciutto + Buratta to your classic Margherita, these pizzas will have you on the edge of your seat. And if you're looking for a spacious, decked up place to dine with friends and family, 2145 Eats offers beautifully lit outdoor seating. If you dine here, order the Garlic Parmesan Fries and the Prosciutto + Buratta Pizza!

4. Vox Kitchen: Fountain Valley, CA

I had to save the best for last. Vox Kitchen's Asian fusion fare was like nothing I had ever eaten before. With dishes like Crab Congee to "Saltado" Shaken Fries, customers are bound to try delicious foods found only here. My experience at Vox Kitchen was one of my firsts with Asian fusion food (and it did not disappointment). The food was not only amazing, but the service and price range were as well. Within the first 10 minutes of ordering, our first dish was immediately served fresh and steaming off the plate. The items ordered could feed up to three people, and in total of the two dishes ordered between the few of us, the final price totaled to $29. If you're looking to take risks, Vox Kitchen is the place to go. If you do dine here, order the "Saltado" Shaken Fries and Garlic Noodles.