The Kickoff of Newport Beach Restaurant Weeks was held at the Lincoln Experience Center in upscale Fashion Square.  Seven restaurants took part in what was a Culinary Journey  With city leaders and media present to take part.  We were there with camera to take part with Passport in my other hand ready to be stamped at each restaurant station.
Newport Beach restaurants taking part included The Bungalow, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Mayor's Table, Moulin, Five Crowns and Olea.  We also had the opportunity to chat with some of the owners and chefs at these restaurants.  From Five Crowns we met Alejandra Victoria, Executive Chef, and was so impressed with her presence that we also took a photo.
At Great Maple we talked with Andrew Dizon, General Manager.  Vine Restaurant is one of three owned and operated by Russ Bendel,with vine located in San Clemente, Ironwood Cellar in Laguna Hills and Olea Cellar in Newport Beach.  Representing Lido House of Newport Beach was Brian Neubauer, director of restaurant operations.
The Newport Beach Restaurant Weeks started on January 14 and will continue to January 27.  This is the sixth year the event has taken place.
Looking at our passport at the end of the evening we noted that we were missing a couple of the stamps but you can be sure we did not miss any of the tasty,  unique and sometimes colorful appetizers presented at the event.