Family-owned dessert café Uncle Fluffy is opening its second Orange County location at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa on Saturday, May 23 at 11 a.m. Known for its airy and jiggly Japanese-style cheesecake, the popular dessert shop has built a following for its freshly baked sweet treats and specialty drinks. Uncle Fluffy also has an Orange County location in Huntington Beach.

To celebrate the grand opening, Uncle Fluffy will offer samples of its signature cheesecakes, tarts, lemonade and blended coffee drinks from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The café’s fluffy cheesecake will be available in original, mocha, pistachio and lemon flavors. The original cheesecake comes in three sizes starting at $10.99, while specialty flavors are offered in the smallest size only.

Guests will also find a variety of freshly baked tarts including cheese, chocolate, matcha, mango and pistachio, along with macarons and mochi. Everything is baked fresh on-site daily.

In addition to desserts, the menu features hot and iced espresso drinks, matcha, blended coffees, fruit smoothies and other non-coffee beverages.

Uncle Fluffy is located at 1870 Harbor Blvd. at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa, facing Newport Boulevard. The shop will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (949) 220-7579.

Uncle Fluffy is also located at 120 5th Street Suite C120 Huntington Beach.

Looking for a reason to trade the couch for the coast this June? The Newport Beach TV Fest returns June 4-7 at the historic Lido Theater with four days of conversations, live podcasts, award presentations, and appearances from some of television’s biggest names.

Open to the public, the festival is expected to draw one of the largest gatherings of Guild and Television Academy voters outside Los Angeles and New York, giving Orange County audiences a rare chance to see stars up close in an intimate setting.

Highlights include Mindy Kaling and Seth MacFarlane appearing for live Awards Chatter podcasts, Andy Cohen receiving Variety’s Creative Impact in Television Award, and ensemble panels featuring casts from “Landman” and “Shrinking.” Sebastian Maniscalco will also be honored with the Comedy Special of the Year Award for his Hulu special “It Ain’t Right.”

Beyond the festival, Newport Beach offers the perfect backdrop for a weekend escape with waterfront dining, coastal resorts, aquatic adventures, and 10 miles of beaches.

Tickets and the full schedule are at nbtvfest.com. 

Surf & Sand Laguna Beach has partnered with OSEA to debut an exclusive OSEA Spa Suite at Aquaterra Spa, marking the first spa collaboration of its kind following the resort’s recent transformation.

The experience is available as a limited three-month residency, introducing a fully branded treatment suite designed around OSEA’s core elements of Ocean, Sun, Earth and Atmosphere. At the center is the Dream Firming Massage, a restorative treatment focused on circulation, skin firming and deep relaxation using the brand’s seaweed-based formulations.

The partnership feels like a natural fit. Both brands are rooted in the California coast, and Aquaterra Spa has incorporated OSEA products into treatments for years. This new suite builds on that relationship, creating a more immersive, ocean-inspired wellness experience.

Guests can expect OSEA’s signature products woven throughout each treatment, along with thoughtful sensory details that reflect the brand’s coastal origins. The timing aligns with a growing interest in wellness experiences that feel intentional, immersive and rooted in clean, plant-based skincare.

The launch also comes as Surf & Sand Laguna Beach continues its refreshed chapter, with new Spa Director Avigale LaGrass bringing more than 15 years of luxury resort experience and a focus on elevated treatments and meaningful wellness programming inspired by Laguna Beach.

1555 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach. 

There is something about an ultra-soft blanket that never goes out of season, even as the weather warms up. Cozy Earth’s Cuddle Collection has quickly become a favorite for anyone who loves a cozy night in, and it is easy to see why. The collection includes some of the plushest blankets and pillows around, designed for elevated lounging with a luxurious feel that makes every room a little more inviting.

The lineup features the Superplush Cuddle Blanket, Bubble Cuddle Blanket, Double Bubble Cuddle Blanket and Channel Cuddle Blanket, along with the equally soft Superplush Cuddle Pillow. The award-winning Bubble Cuddle Blanket was also recognized with a Good Housekeeping Bedding Award.

The pieces are incredibly soft, substantial without feeling too heavy, and the kind of blankets guests immediately ask about the moment they sit down. They bring comfort and texture to a bedroom, sofa or reading chair and feel just as good as they look.

Cozy Earth’s Orange County location in Corona del Mar makes it easy to stop in and experience the collection in person, but online shopping is just as tempting, at cozyearth.com.

Cozy Earth is located at 3600 East Coast Highway in Corona del Mar. Additional Southern California locations include Santa Monica and San Diego.

Sweetgreen is opening its second Irvine location on Tuesday, May 12, at University Center near UC Irvine. The mission-driven restaurant brand, known for its fresh salads, warm bowls and protein plates, will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the 3,350-square-foot space.

The menu includes Sweetgreen favorites such as the Harvest Bowl, Crispy Rice Bowl, Caramelized Garlic Steak and Miso Glazed Salmon. For a limited time, guests can also try the new Chicken Sesame Crunch salad, a citrus-forward take on a California classic, along with a Korean BBQ-inspired menu featuring Sweetgreen’s popular protein paired with a savory glaze and balanced heat.

The University Center location will also introduce Sweetgreen’s newest menu format, wraps. The protein-packed wraps are designed for meals on the go and include options such as Chicken Caesar, Jalapeño Ranch and Bacon Club, each with more than 40 grams of protein.

Sweetgreen’s focus on fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients is reflected throughout the restaurant, from its open kitchen to a visible source board highlighting partner farms and suppliers. Ingredients at the Irvine location will include baby spinach, wild arugula and spring mix from Jayleaf; cilantro and romaine from Coastal Fresh Farms; and kale from Dynasty Farms.

Guests can order in person, online or through the Sweetgreen app, which includes access to SG Rewards. Members earn points toward perks, exclusive offers and free menu items.

To celebrate the opening, Sweetgreen will host several community events throughout the week at University Center.

On Tuesday, May 12, beginning at 10 a.m., the grand opening celebration will include giveaways featuring seasonal produce-inspired candles from Happy Organics, limited-edition Sweetgreen merchandise and an appearance by UC Irvine mascot Peter the Anteater. The first 75 in-store guests between 10 and 11 a.m. will receive a complimentary entrée, up to a $20 value, while supplies last.

On Thursday, May 14, from 5 to 8 p.m., Sweetgreen will host a junk journaling evening with Junklub, featuring curated Junk Boxes for the first 50 guests and complimentary boba from Cha for Tea.

On Saturday, May 16, beginning at noon, Sweetgreen will partner with neighboring business The Drop Irvine for a vintage and streetwear pop-up alongside teas from Aurelia Teas.

Sweetgreen is also partnering with Food Finders, the nonprofit food rescue organization focused on reducing hunger and food waste in local communities. For every meal purchased on opening day, Sweetgreen will donate a bowl to help nourish people experiencing food insecurity in Orange County.

4289 Campus Drive, Irvine.

Henry’s Coastal Cuisine will host an Icons of Napa Valley Wine Dinner on Friday, May 15 at 6 p.m., bringing together acclaimed guest chefs for a multi-course evening in support of Bracken’s Kitchen.

Set on the oceanfront patio at Henry’s Coastal Cuisine, the dinner highlights seasonal ingredients, thoughtful technique, and expertly paired Napa Valley wines, all tied to a meaningful cause. Tickets are $249 per guest, inclusive of service charge and parking, with $75 from each seat benefiting Bracken’s Kitchen and its mission to combat hunger and reduce food waste.

The evening begins with an oceanfront Champagne reception featuring Chef Bill Bracken, followed by a five-course menu paired with premier Napa wines:

Amuse
Kaluga caviar, roasted onion purée, society garlic flowers
Louis de Sacy Brut Original Champagne

First course by Benoit LaFleche
Summer squash and zucchini roll with poached lobster farce, creamy white wine and vadouvan reduction, citrus oil and fennel flowers
Double Diamond 2023 Sauvignon Blanc

Second course by Lewis Butler
Pan roasted Hokkaido scallops with lemon Yukon mousse, grilled baby gem, shellfish reduction and split buttermilk sauce
Robert Mondavi The Reserve Fumé Blanc 2023

Third course by Kris Kirk
Duck confit with blue corn polenta, spring vegetables and cabernet duck jus
Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

Main course by Michael Wilson
Dry-aged New York strip with butter-roasted morel mushrooms, vanilla bean infused mushroom purée, parmesan sunchoke dauphine, brown butter mulberry compote and port Béarnaise
To Kalon 2023 Highest Beauty

Dessert
Chocolate mousse tian with caramel, lime biscuit and Grand Marnier ice cream
Robert Mondavi Moscato D’Oro

This one-night experience celebrates culinary talent while supporting the ongoing work of Bracken’s Kitchen. Founded in 2013 by Chef Bill Bracken, the nonprofit transforms surplus food into nutritious meals, provides culinary training, and serves communities across Orange County, delivering more than 2.2 million meals to date.

Henry's Coastal Cuisine is at The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel at 21100 CA-1, Huntington Beach. (714) 845-8000

Whether it is an elegant afternoon tea, a relaxed coastal brunch, or a comforting Southern meal, Orange County restaurants are planning thoughtful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10.

In Anaheim and Irvine, Puesto is offering a complimentary Pistachio Tres Leches Cake for moms dining in. The dessert highlights pistachio in multiple forms, finished with passionfruit whipped cream. Pair it with a Puesto Perfect Margarita made with tequila reposado, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar. Menus, locations, and reservations are available at eatpuesto.com.

In Costa Mesa, Knife Pleat at South Coast Plaza is hosting a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Michelin-starred Chef Tony Esnault’s service includes premium LaMill tea, tea sandwiches, and a selection of pastries, with optional caviar and champagne upgrades. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Book at exploretock.com/knifepleat or call 714-266-3388.

Also in Costa Mesa, Naisho Omakase offers an intimate 14-seat experience with 12- or 16-course tastings curated by Chef Shimpei Shinohara. The restaurant will be open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., with the last seating at 9:30 p.m. Reservations can be made at naishoomakase.com.

In Huntington Beach, The Waterfront Beach Resort is hosting an oceanfront brunch buffet in the Breakwater Ballroom and Vista Lawns. The menu includes seafood, carving, omelet, and dessert stations. Seating runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Details and reservations are available at waterfrontresort.com.

In Irvine, Georgia’s Restaurant is serving a Soulful Sunday Brunch with favorites such as fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and cinnamon-apple waffles. Each mom receives a complimentary mimosa. More information is available at georgias-restaurant.com.

In Laguna Beach, Driftwood Kitchen is offering a waterfront brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with carving stations, seafood, made-to-order omelets, and desserts. Reservations can be made at opentable.com/driftwood-kitchen or by calling 949-715-7700.

In Newport Beach, Sushi Roku at Fashion Island is featuring special dishes including Chilean seabass, tiramisu, and a Sakura Pear Martini. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended at sushiroku.com/menus/newport-beach or by calling 949-706-3622.

In Orange, Bruxie will open its Old Towne location early at 7 a.m., serving its signature waffle sandwiches, chicken tenders, and custard shakes. Details are available at bruxie.com. Haven Craft Kitchen+Bar will offer brunch from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by dinner service, with seasonal additions and classic favorites. Reservations can be made at havencraftkitchen.com or by calling 714-221-0680.

In San Clemente, ILYA is hosting a Coastal Mediterranean brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a menu that ranges from mezze and seafood to dry-aged ribeye and classic desserts. Reservations are available at ILYArestaurant.com. Zov’s, recently opened in San Clemente, will also be serving its signature California Mediterranean cuisine. More information can be found at ZOVS.com.

In Tustin and Newport Beach, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar will offer brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. to close, featuring Chef Yvon Goetz’s Wine Country-inspired dishes. Reservations and menus are available at thewineryrestaurants.com or by calling 714-258-7600 for Tustin and 949-999-6622 for Newport Beach.

La La Land Kind Cafe is opening a new location at Irvine Spectrum Center with a full day of grand opening specials on Saturday, May 2. From 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., guests can enjoy 50 percent off drinks and toast, along with gifts for the first 300 people in line while supplies last.

For those who want an early visit, the soft opening runs through May 1 with 50 percent off all drinks when the La La Land app is downloaded and scanned at checkout.

The menu leans into the café’s signature cloud-style drinks, including the Banana Cloud Latte, Strawberry Cloud Latte, La La Latte with vanilla and cloud foam, and the Matcha Squared Latte. These iced, layered drinks topped with a light, fluffy foam have become the brand’s signature. Other favorites include the Upside Down Latte with vanilla and caramel drizzle, the Lavender Bloom with lavender and vanilla, the French Toast Latte with maple and cinnamon, and The Perfect Latte made with the café’s house blend.

Matcha is a major focus, with ceremonial-grade offerings featured in drinks like Strawberry Fields, along with classic matcha lattes in flavors such as vanilla, honey, and lavender, plus seasonal specials. Refreshers include options like strawberry and mango passionfruit coolers.

The food menu keeps things simple with avocado toast, sweet and savory toast options, and grab-and-go items.

Grand opening offers are valid on May 2 only at the Irvine Spectrum Center location. Soft opening pricing is available through May 1 with app redemption.

La La Land is at 756 Spectrum Drive in Irvine, near Old Navy. 

J Ruby opened in February, marking the first retail space for designer Jessica Ruby, who has been creating and refining her work for years. The Laguna Beach studio, set in the historic St. Clair building, serves as both a boutique and the home of the South Laguna Art Project, where workshops and classes are offered regularly.

Inside, the space is filled with upcycled fashion, custom embroidery, and original artwork by Jessica. The racks feature 100 percent yarn-dyed cotton shirting made in California, including her signature Boyfriend Shirt with classic or sport cuffs. A Patch Bar invites customers to personalize pieces with nautical letters, anchors, sharks, and more, all sewn on in-house.

Jessica works alongside her daughter Paige, who hand-embroiders many of the designs and helps run the studio. Together, they have created a welcoming, community-driven space that blends fashion, art, and hands-on creativity. Even Poppi, the studio pup, makes the occasional appearance.

The shop also carries scarf hats, bandana shirts, accessories, and small-batch items made from repurposed materials.

J Ruby is open Friday through Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with parking available behind the building.

J Ruby is located at 31711 Coast Highway in Laguna Beach.