We recently had the opportunity to revisit Mozambique Steakhouse to try their new Happy Hour fare, and it remains clear that when it comes to delicious food for a great price, Mozambique delivers. When visitors ask where they can get a good steak or listen to some live music, Mozambique is always one of our first recommendations. Their happy hour may be a little early for some—it starts at 3:30 and ends “promptly” at 6:00. But if you’re looking for a scrumptious small plate dinner at a great price, go early and beat the after-work crowd--then, if it’s Thursday through Sunday, hang around for the some great music. We had the pork chop and got a generous portion with mashed potatoes and fresh mixed veg—unbelievably delicious and satisfying for only $10!!! Sorry to say that Mozambique does not have our favorite bar, but as is sometimes the case, we are very much in the minority with that opinion. Compared to other favorites, the bar service is, in our opinion, a bit too laid back; and if you prefer top shelf booze, you’ll need to loosen your purse strings. The night we were there, two of the three red wines they offer for a very reasonable $5 a glass were unavailable, and we were offered no substitutions—it was clear that the 6:00 shut-off was quickly approaching. But the great food more than made up for any perceived shortcomings in service or bargain wine offerings. And again, we need to make it clear that most locals who “hang” at the Mozambique bar will tell you it has no equal. Bottom line—Mozambique’s early-bird style small plate dinners are exceptional for the price, and Mozambique continues to top the list as one of the best spots in Laguna for a great steak and a popular lively bar with live music. For more information, check out the Mozambique Steakhouse Bar & Lounge web site.
We were pleased to attend the Laguna Playhouse 90th Anniversary gathering on Friday evening, October 22, 2010. A number of guests and dignitaries were present at the downtown Laguna Beach site of the original 1920 playhouse for the dedication of a “callboard” plaque designed and created by local artist Mike Tauber. The original Ocean Avenue building was razed in the 1960s after construction of the current Moulton Theater on Broadway/Canyon Road. The theater now boasts 100,000 visitors annually, and presents nationally recognized professional acts and presentations. We’ve seen many of the performances and we can honestly say that we’ve never been disappointed. Casa Laguna Inn & Spa sends its congratulations to the Laguna Playhouse, its players, staff, and patrons. In the photo: Karen Wood, Managing Director of Laguna Playhouse (L), and Karyn Philippsen, LBVCB President (R), flanking the beautiful new "callboard" plaque commemorating the 90th Anniversary of the Laguna Playhouse.
Resolution
By the Honorable Tom Harman, 35th Senatorial District: Relative to Commending
Casa Laguna Inn & Spa
WHEREAS, Casa Laguna Inn & Spa is celebrating its ninetieth anniversary of providing luxury accommodations in Laguna Beach, and upon this occasion, it is deserving of special public commendations; and
WHEREAS, Built in the 1920s as a private residence and used by artists ever since as a refuge and unique vantage point on California’s sea coast, Casa Laguna Inn & Spa offers guests casual luxury in a one-of-a-kind setting; and
WHEREAS, Voted “Best in Orange County” by the Orange County Register for nine consecutive years, Casa Laguna Inn & Spa offers a unique experience of comfort and luxury; and
WHEREAS, The mission-style architecture of this Laguna Beach hotel bed and breakfast set below towering palms framing views of the blue Pacific Ocean invites guests to linger and to slow their pace to that of another less-hurried era, and this feeling is reinforced as they enjoy breakfast or afternoon refreshments in the historic Mission House or on one of the many secluded patios, part of the common area at the Casa Laguna Inn; and
WHEREAS, Casa Laguna Inn’s magnificent Palm Court, the bougainvillea-vined courtyard and the ocean-view pool deck enchant visitors with its fountains and rare Catalina tiles; and
WHEREAS, Another true touch of classic Laguna Beach is the Bell Tower, the perfect place to catch spectacular sunsets over Catalina Island from the Casa Laguna Bed and Breakfast; and
WHEREAS, Casa Laguna remains one of the highest rated hotels in Laguna Beach according to tripadvisor.com, the world’s largest online travel community; and
WHEREAS, Committed to giving back to the community, Casa Laguna Inn & Spa sponsors and supports several charitable associations, organizations, and special events, including the 2010 Orange County Ride for AIDS, in which dozens of cyclist pedal their way through several communities to raise money for the thousands of people affected by HIV/AIDS; and
WHEREAS, The contributions that businesses such as Casa Laguna Inn & Spa make to the business climate of the community enhance the quality of life for the entire population instill a great sense of pride in those individuals associated with it; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED BY SENATOR TOM HARMAN, That Casa Laguna Inn & Spa be commended on its long and fascinating history consisting of a dynamic past, challenging present, and the promise of a long and bright future as it celebrates 90 years of excellence.
Member Resolution No. 3624 Dated this 9th day of October, 2010 Honorable Tom Harman 35th Senatorial District
