You are here: Home / Archives for Current Events

Orange County 2011 Wine Week

September 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Orange County

Orange County Wine Week, September 25th through October 1st.

Rachell and I will be headed out to the Red Table Restaurant in Huntington Beach (Huntington Harbor) to check out the tuna tartar for the County of Orange 2011 Wine Week.

This is your chance to get out and try something new.  Restaurants you’ll see listed on the above link (click on the photo) will be hosting specials which will allow one to try a select menu of what the restaurant has to offer.  This is a GREAT opportunity to get outside the normal.  Take a chance, Rach and I will!

Enjoy,
DaveHuntington Beach

 

Filed Under: Entertainment, Featured Articles, Orange County Events Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rutabegorz of Old Town Tustin

August 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Down in Old Town Tustin, it seems that, Rutabegorz is always busy.  And that was the hook.  Originally I said to myself, any restaurant with a loyal base of foodies is worth the try.  And that is how I ended up at Rutabegorz Restaurant.

Rutagegorz is located in historic Old Town Tustin.  I am totally into the old town vibe and the building that houses the eatery was neat, but I did not like the interior decorations.  Was way cliché.  Fortunately, I was there to eat and I ended up dinning with my father, George, who has previously patronized the restaurant.

When it was time to order, George had the tortilla soup and I had the veggie sandwich.  One could imagine what was in the tortilla soup and there were no disputes with the presentation or taste of the meal.  The veggie special on the other hand was an open faced sandwich (a surprise) with a variety of vegetables and cheese served up on toasted squaw bread, placed under the broiler prior to arrival.  Even though I was quite surprised by the open face sandwich, the food was not half bad.  I would probably go for something else next time, however.

 

Rutabegorz of Old Town Tustin Rutabegorz of Old Town Tustin

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the end, I would say check it out.  But try something other than the veggie sandwich.  I know I will at least give it one more go prior to my conclusions…I mean they have been around for like 25 years.  And think about it, one could eat and then take a stroll about Old Town Tustin and do some shopping or just enjoy the community.

Best,
Dave

 

Map: Rutabegorz 158 West Main Tustin, CA 92780


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Featured Articles, Orange County Events, Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Nana Jean’s in Old Town Tustin

July 30, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Last week I visited David at his office in Tustin after work one day and we decided to head out for early supper.  We did not really have anywhere specific in mind but we were in Old Town Tustin, saw the sunny quiet front patio of Nana Jeans and were set.

We sat down outside and ordered a cold beverage and took a look at the menu.  There were lots of umbrellas out on the patio which provided a lot of shade from the hot afternoon sun.  Looking at the menu Dave knew right away what he was going to have – a short rib grilled cheese.  I chose the veggie grilled cheese, and as far as the sides, I decided on the sweet noodle kugel and Dave, the mac ‘n cheese.

Nana Jean'sNana Jean's

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nana Jean's

For those of you not aware, as I was until I ordered it, kugel is a sort of sweet noodle casserole (not as weird as it sounds).When our food came out the sandwiches were large and Dave’s came with a killer side of au jus.  The kugel was okay–Dave preferred more than I did which was fine because I ate the majority of his mac’n cheese. But back to the sandwiches; my veggie grilled cheese included squash, bell peppers, tomatoes and eggplant —so delicous.  Dave’s sandwich was stuffed with short rib and onions, but really it was the au jus that made the whole thing fantastic.

Overall it was a nice dinner–I would be interested to go back and try some of the larger items on the menu (pork chops, lasagne, etc.) or perhaps the brunch and the location is just off El Camino Real in Old Town, which makes for a nice little walk after a satisfying meal.

Enjoy,
Rachell

Map: Nana Jean’s at 303 El Camino Real Tustin, CA 92780


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Featured Articles, Orange County Events, Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Breakfast at Lucci’s Deli in Huntington Beach

July 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

What is cheap and delicious?  Breakfast at Lucci’s Deli.

A couple weekends back, I was in the mood for some French toast.  The previous Friday night being hectic, to say the least, resulted in a late rise for the following morning.  So prior to an open house on Saturday, I dropped in at Lucci’s to settle the craving for a savory and sweet breakfast.

I ordered at the counter and took a seat inside the market/deli.  After leafing through the morning paper and sipping my coffee, my order was up.  I was absolutely delighted with my cinnamon swirled French toast special that comes with two sausage links; I also ordered a side of two fried eggs.  The coffee was great; I had three cups prior and three cups during my meal.  The service was friendly and jumped the extra milestone by finding/bringing me a side of boysenberry jam.  When they delivered the bill, I was floored.  Cheap, cheap, CHEAP!  I quickly paid and was on my way.

The first encounter was so pleasant, I decided to treat my lovely wife the following week.  We switched it up this time around, and found a nice spot out front on the makeshift patio.  Rachell ordered the Eggs Benedict, a dish which makes or breaks an eatery (in my humble opinion).  I, as always when finding something I like, ordered the French toast.

Lucci's DeliLucci's Deli

 

 

 

 

 

I was shocked, Rachell’s Eggs Benedict was fantastic.  You ask why, because I pegged Lucci’s as a standard diner with some good dishes and some bad.  Why, just cause…I got that feeling, you know?  Well the Hollandaise sauce had the perfect tang, the yolks ran with the first bite, thick layer of ham and buttered biscuits/muffins just “MADE” the dish.  The French toast was just as the weekend before, perfect.  These two dishes without any side orders came to a total of thirteen bucks ($13.00), without tip.

All in all, Lucci’s is that down the street diner.  BUT, it does it well with good food, service and price.  It might not get all the hype because it is a deli, but it is a “MUST EAT” for food in and around Huntington Beach!  If you’re looking for a good breakfast with strong dark coffee then stop by Lucci’s Deli!

Best,
Dave

 

Map: Lucci’s Deli off Adams and Magnolia


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Featured Articles, Orange County Events, Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Tustin Meadows: May, End of Month Report

June 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Tustin Meadows

Tustin Meadows

Notes:

The month-to-month trends for the community of Tustin Meadows represents a downwards price correction of about twenty thousand dollars, in both ‘Active’ and ‘SOLD’ properties.  Those properties that have recently sold will play a determining factor for offers from potential buyers.  An interesting occurrence within the community lies within the ‘Sale Type’ for the end of the month.  Sixty one percent (61%) of the May inventory represents standard “equity” sales, representing another strong month with low distressed inventory.      

Links:

City of Tustin: May, End of Month Report

Tustin Meadows: April, End of Month Report

For more detailed information specific to your property call today or request a FREE Market Evaluation!

Best regards,
The Wilfert Group©
George & David Wilfert
+1 714 357 1422

Disclaimer:

The generated data is gathered from the SoCal Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.  This information should be used objectively as the foundation for your research.  For more detailed community information or a Computerized Market Evaluation please contact us at the Wilfert Group.


Filed Under: Featured Articles Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Meredith Gardens Annual Jazz Concert

May 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Little may know, but I grew up in Meredith Gardens (a fantastic community in Huntington Beach) and George still lives there to this day.  Personally, I have taken full advantage of LeBard Park with family and friends for BBQ’s to pick up games of basketball (and everything in-between).  So when the voluntary Meredith Gardens Home Owners Association decided to get together to sponsor Len Montgomery’s Brethren Christian High School Band in an annual jazz concert, I was more than happy to par-take.

Being a huge fan of jazz and blues, it was never a question whether to attend and I have been present most years.  So on June 4, 2011 in LeBard Park in the City of Huntington Beach, the Meredith Gardens community will present Len Montgomery’s Jazz Band from 6:00 to 8:00pm.  Totally excited, these kids are GOOD.  Flat out gifted. 

Remember to back a picnic, maybe some cheese maybe some wine (I won’t tell if you won’t), a blanket to sit back and relax to the notes of melody.

Enjoy,
Dave

Filed Under: Entertainment, Featured Articles, Orange County Events Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Mesa Verde State Streets: April, End of Month Report

May 27, 2011 By Leave a Comment

“Based on the current uptrend with very favorable affordability conditions, rising apartment rents, and ongoing job creation, existing-home sales should rise around 5 to 10 percent this year with sales growth of lower priced homes likely to outperform high-end homes.  Recent [Current] homebuyers are staying well within budget, leading to exceptionally low loan default rates among homebuyers over the past two years.”
                                                                                                               -  Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist

Costa Mesa CA

Costa Mesa CA

Notes:

As we can see in month end listings for April in the community of Mesa Verde the State Streets, a large chunk of distressed inventory (specifically short sales) will produce comparable sales for future turnover (suggesting if these properties actually close escrow).  This will prove disheartening on two levels.  First, these comps will directly reflect purchase offers in the future.  Second, lenders will be less forgiving and appraisals will come in conservative.  So that means if you’re looking for a loan or interested in refinancing, it will prove difficult.  Questions?  Call Dave, (714) 357-1422!

Links:

City of Costa Mesa: April, End of Month Report

Mesa Verde State Streets: March, End of Month Report

For more detailed information specific to your property call today or request a FREE Market Evaluation!

Best regards,
The Wilfert Group©
George & David Wilfert
+1 714 357 1422

Disclaimer:

The generated data is gathered from the SoCal Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.  This information should be used objectively as the foundation for your research.  For more detailed community information or a Computerized Market Evaluation please contact us at the Wilfert Group.

Filed Under: Featured Articles Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Old Towne Tustin Annual Promenade

May 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Surprisingly, I did not hear about this article via the City of Tustin’s twitter feed or facebook page…I know all my hype but not a word from these sources or maybe I am wrong and they did have something.  Anyways, that is not the point of this article.

The main point is, and if you love bungalow homes in old town aesthetic LISTEN UP, the City of Tustin Historical Society is hosting their Annual Promenade of Old Towne.  Saturday May, 14thold town will open up for “A Tour of Tustin’s History.”

The day will consist of a walking tour of homes and gardens, an architectural tour, tree walking tour, a quilt show and plenty of antique or vintage autos.  For more information check out the official Tustin Area Historical Society.

All in all, the event looks promising.  Tustin is a GREAT city, very hip to modern jive, and Old Towne Tustin is really neat.  I am crossing my fingers I won’t have to work that day, showing properties or an open house, but you never know.

Get out there and ENJOY your city!

Best,
Dave

Map: Tustin Area Historical Society


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Entertainment, Featured Articles, Home & Garden, Orange County Events Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Meredith Gardens: April, End of Month Report

May 6, 2011 By Leave a Comment

“Based on the current uptrend with very favorable affordability conditions, rising apartment rents, and ongoing job creation, existing-home sales should rise around 5 to 10 percent this year with sales growth of lower priced homes likely to outperform high-end homes.  Recent [Current] homebuyers are staying well within budget, leading to exceptionally low loan default rates among homebuyers over the past two years.”
                                                                                                                      -  Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist

For more detailed information specific to your property call today or request a FREE Market Evaluation!

Best regards,
The Wilfert Group©
George & David S. Wilfert
+1 714 357 1422

Disclaimer:

The generated data is gathered from the SoCal Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.  This information should be used objectively as the foundation for your research.  For more detailed community information or a Computerized Market Evaluation please contact us at the Wilfert Group.


Links:

City of Huntington Beach: April, End of Month Report

Meredith Gardens: March, End of Month Report


Map: LeBard Park, Meredith Gardens


View Larger Map

Comparable Market Analysis - County of Orange, CA

We would like to help you with your real estate endeavors! Please fill out this form and we will get in touch with you shortly.
  • Please feel free to add any special features that your property might possess that differentiates it from other homes within your community.

Filed Under: Featured Articles Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tustin Earth Day Compost Event

April 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Pretty cool event held in joint cooperation with CC&R Waste Management and the City of Tustin for Earth Day (Week).  Single Family Residents (SFRs) who present the coupon from their April 1st billing statement, Environmental News, will receive two 30lbs bags of compost. 

Basically, you can use your compost throughout your garden on a wide range of plants and trees.  The compost will help revitalize the soil of depleted minerals and nutrients that your ‘Victory Garden’ (vegetable patch) needs.  I am not cheap, and I have my CC&R bills to show for it, but FREE is the right price for me!

So, City of Tustin, head on down on April 30th to 235 E. Main Street with your coupon for two free bags of compost!

For more information check out these details at the City of Tustin.

Happy gardening,
David

Recap:



I must say, the joint cooperation between the City of Tustin and CC&R Waste Management went off without a hitch.  There was a line from Main Street right into the parking lot with management collecting the coupons and staff handing out the compost, they had it down pat.  I was happy to see the compost was all natural and organic.  That means NO chemicals being absorbed into our produce or leaching into our water system through drainage.  If you want to see some real damage from chemical run off then check out the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico.

Remember, all natural no chemical compost is a doubly good, double positive, ahh, just plan good for your family and your health!

THANKS again City of Tustin and CC&R Waste Management.  Goodwill earns my RESPECT!

Best,
Dave


Map: 235 E. Main Street Tustin CA


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Featured Articles, Home & Garden, Orange County Events Tagged With: , , , , , ,

The Newport Beach Film Festival

April 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment


April 28, 2011 is the opening night for the Newport Beach Film Festival. 

After checking out the website, I was a little disappointed at the price of some events.  However, there is a movie with Colin Hanks and Jeffrey Tambor called ‘Lucky’ that looks interesting and only $15.  Already a fan of Colin Hanks, ‘Orange County,’ and a huge fan of Jeffrey Tambor, ‘Arrested Development,’ I am interested to see were this dark comedy will go.  All I need is to get Rach on board. 

Regardless of my opinion on price, the event looks promising…There seems to be plenty of adventure sports and surfing films (usually a blast especially if you surf/ski/snowboard etc), a Latino showcase, an eco spotlight, drama and comedies.  And those are just the films!  There will be plenty of parties, galas and after parties to attend (even after after parties).   

Pulled straight from the website: 340 movies – 40 Countries – A Whole lot of Parties!

If the price doesn’t scare you off then I would suggest trying it out.  Go out on the town and support some independent films!

Best,
Dave

Recap:

First and foremost…I, David, am a harsh critic (Rachell wanted me to plug that in).

So, Rach and I went to the premier of ‘Lucky’ with Colin Hanks, Ari Graynor and Jeff Tambor.   First, it was PACKED.  When we entered the theater, we were supplied with a ballot; the selection Excellent, Good, Fair and Poor.  The Lido Theater itself is very nice, aesthetically pleasing.  A wide mix of ages; young, old, students, those from Hollywood etc. were all present.  Slightly bourgeois, the Hollywood elites thought it proper to stand till the very start of the movie and socialize while the rest of us were forced to sit and save our own spots.  The movie started about 30mins late.

The movie itself, well let me just give you our ratings.  Rachell –> Good and for me –> Poor.  The highlight of the night, the actress Ari Graynor (who was not even present in the synopsis for the movie).  Rach and I were happy to see her get a break.  And overall, Rach and I thought it could have used more editing and a better soundtrack (both hard to do with lack of funds).  Hmm, just thought, maybe I am being a little harsh but proper budgeting could go a long way for any situation. 

But in the end, I still stand by my original inclination.  After leafing through the film fest booklet, I was able to see plenty of other movies that looked promising.  It you get some time, go check out a movie at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

Best,
Dave    


Map: Lido Theaters in Newport Beach


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Entertainment, Featured Articles, Orange County Events Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

A Taste of Huntington Beach

April 27, 2011 By Leave a Comment

So last year my mother-in-law attended the Taste of Huntington Beach and had a GREAT time.  This year is turning out to be just as good.  This Sunday, May 1st, over 40 vendors will congregate at the Huntington Beach Sports Complex off Goldenwest (at Talbert) for the 2011 Taste of HB.  Breweries, wineries, restaurants and cafes will all be present with their BEST to offer!  This event is a fantastic way to try cuisine and drink from all over Huntington.

On a side note, all proceeds from this event will go directly to benefit the HB Children’s Library.  This charity fundraiser is sponsored by the HB Restaurant Association in partnership with the Friends of the Children’s Library.

Tickets & Information —> Taste of Huntington Beach 

Enjoy,
Dave

Map: 18000 Goldenwest Street Huntington Beach


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Featured Articles, Orange County Events, Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Huntington Beach Art Walk

April 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Throughout the day I periodically check into facebook to catch the most recent trends.  Being in real estate, I ‘like’ many of the Orange County city pages (and few LA County pages too; you hear me Long Beach!?!) on the social network.  This is how I ended up with the info, the night of, this event!

The Art Walk starts at 6pm and lasts until 9pm, and it is held the third Wednesday of every month.  Six to nine pm was great timing because Rachell and I ended up eating dinner beforehand and then enjoyed an evening stroll downtown. 

It was a warm night and many people were out and about.  Our first stop was the Huntington Beach Art Center, off Main Street.  A staff member informed us of the happenings and supplied us with a map.  There was a whole lot of good art by grammar/high school artist at the art center. 

We continued down towards the beach and hit the HB Public Library, Surf Museum and 2nd Floor.  The last venue proved all previous conclusions about the restaurant wrong.  Their art included a variety of tattoo artists’ canvas work.  In addition to the mounted art, a string quartet (well three strings and a drummer) played in the corner.  Really, it was good ambiance and we will definitely be by again to try the food and drink. 

After exiting the 2nd Floor we stopped at The Scoop on Cookies for dessert.  Probably the best buy downtown, the “Scoop” offers two cookies and a scoop of ice cream (incredible ice cream sandwich) for two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50), FLAT.  The art walk was great, but this was one of the reasons for the evening stroll.

At the end of the night, we just walked back up to our apartment and caught a few side acts on the way.  Really, it was a nice cheap night out on the town.  I would suggest taking a stroll one third Wednesday of any month and check out the HB Art Walk!

Take it easy,
Dave    

Facebook Links:

The City of Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach Art Walk

Davd S. Wilfert


Map: Huntington Beach Art Center


View Larger Map

Filed Under: Entertainment, Featured Articles, Orange County Events Tagged With: , , , , , , ,
« Older Posts