By Robb Wirt

Laguna Beach is more than a TV show, it’s a city well known for its beaches and artist community. Oh really? I go there to drink and escape paralyzing suburbia, otherwise known as Irvine. Sometimes I even eat, like tonight. I decided to make a scheduled appearance at Sapphire, in the famed Laguna Beach. In case you’re new, Sapphire is located where the historic Pottery Shack used to be on PCH and Brooks St. Sapphire is an integral part of The Old Pottery Place, a 16,500-square-foot complex which also includes an art gallery with an outdoor glassblowing demonstration area, and specialty boutiques. Adjacent to Sapphire, is a gourmet shop, Sapphire Pantry, featuring amazing wines and an extensive selection of artisan cheeses from around the world. After sampling some of the cheeses, my appetite was whet, and I was ready to dine.

As I walked into Sapphire I was impressed with the woodsy-rustic chic décor. Not something I would expect right across the street from the beach. Dining options include an outdoor patio area (that can accommodate 42). But because it was like 60° (these winter nights are killing me), I opted to sit indoors in the Craftsman-style open architecture setting. I first perused the drink menu and decided to start off with a Caffe Latte (aka espresso martini). I am an espresso martini connoisseur, and I was not disappointed. It was creamy goodness, shaken. I also should mention that my waiter, Tony, brought my drink impressively fast, possibly he could tell I was going to need a pick-me-up to get through the rest of the cocktail menu. Sapphire offers over 22 tequilas and whiskies, 13 bourbon’s, 12 cognacs, and the list goes on and on and on. But wait, you say you’re in the mood for wine? Well whine no more, there are over 900 options, 25 of which can be ordered by the glass. But seriously, who orders by the glass? Tony and Milissa, the manager, were both so knowledgeable about all of the wines and food, which is really impressive considering that the evolving menu changes seasonally and often – based on what is freshly caught and available from small farms, nearby markets, and artisan suppliers. Anyway, now that we have our drinks it’s time to order food.

The easy to navigate menu of temptation turned me into a free spirit. I wanted to try everything. I stepped out of my comfort zone and stepped into comfort food inspired by cuisines from around the world. I’m global like that. First came the Home-Fried potato chips with Sage-Rosemary sea salt, followed by Vietnamese chicken salad and a Pom-tini (pomegranate martini). The uber fresh salad had just the right amount of mint leaves to not overwhelm my senses. Hong Kong Style salt and pepper shrimp and Tunisian Merguez Kebab, “Hint of Tabil” (Kobe beef and lamb) came next. It was just so moist and tender. I was saddened by the last bite. But then a quavarita (Quava margarita) paired with Duck Mole Quesadilla, Oaxaca showed up. So rich and comforting. Next was one of my favorites. Just the presentation alone was worth the order. Thai chicken sate kept warm on a Hibachi Grill. Lettuce wrap, green mango salad, and sweet & sour chili yuzu accompanied the chicken perfectly… I tried to take the Hibachi Grill home with me, but Tony wasn’t having it. He took it back to the kitchen when we were through. Can you believe those were just some of the appetizers? Believe it buddy! For the main course we had Jumbo Shrimp Paella matched with a Sapphire Blue cocktail. The paella had crab, clams, chicken and Spanish chorizo, and of course Jumbo Shrimp. The chorizo was tight! I could only eat half because I had to save room for dessert, but it was really difficult to stop eating because it was so delicious. So before ordering dessert, Milissa, who has been at Sapphire since it opened, suggested that we have a cheese plate. I was like really? Are you serious? Oh, she was… Out came a cheese sampler plate with artisan cheeses from around the globe. Per Milissa’s direction I stepped out of my comfort zone once more and paired the cheese with an ice wine (Reisling/Chenin Blanc). Oh heavens to-betsy! I heard harps and my taste buds erupted in such pleasure as I swirled the wine around each bite to savor and lengthen the delight. I definitely recommend this – and take your time to enjoy! To bring this experience to a close I had passion fruit pavlova and a trio of crème brulee. I usually order something chocolate, but was quite happy that I opted for something different. The fruit pavlova was light and ohhhh so good. It was the perfect ending to a perfect meal. I can’t wait to go back to Sapphire!
Sapphire
1200 S Coast Hwy # 101
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 715-9888