Imagine a casual atmosphere with music of a British theme with 70/80’s genre playing. A dining experience that is like that little black dress in your closet. You can dress up or down depending on you. The atmosphere is casual except the food and drink. This dining experience that will leave you wondering if the servers own the business because they have such a passion for their restaurant. Not just with the food, but the back-story, the excellence for customer service and the great detail they all provide.
I went to SideDoor in Corona Del Mar. You walk in and it’s like nothing I have every experienced. It was cozy and warm, I felt I truly left my woes at the door and this was my happy place. I found my happy place and I love it. I strongly encourage you all to try this wonderful place. It’s worth the price and it’s a nice little time out from the hustle and bustle of life. Don’t you deserve a time out, and I promise your pallet will be ever so pleased.
We started off with their Stilton cheese potato chips with crispy prosciutto. I was a little hesitant. This is what put SideDoor on the map with their 1920’s potato chip stand in LA. After taking one bite I realized why. The cheese the crispy prosciutto and the delicate flavor blended nicely together in an array of sunshine in my mouth. We devoured before I took a picture…sorry, not sorry! This one you will have to see for yourself. One bite and you will be hooked!
They say the world is your oyster so how could I not say no to trying the half dozen oysters. Adorned and vibrantly displayed in a mignonette sauce – always served in France with a side of cocktail sauce. You hit the pearl with this one.
My beau wanted to try the Shishito Peppers. I was reluctant as I felt my mouth would be playing a game of Russian roulette in my mouth, as one in ten peppers are spicy. Tracy our server said that it was a favorite on the menu. It was taken off and by protest added back on again. The Shishito Peppers are splashed with ginger, garlic and lime. Tossed for a bit to excite the peppers. WOW is all I am going to say. I am addicted and this is one side you NEED to try. I tried to replicate this dish at home only to be left with blisters in my mouth and a fire extinguisher in my mouth as I found every hot pepper. It can’t be replicated here. My one regret I didn’t order one to go. Worth the trip for the side and order one to go is my recommendation.
We also had the Chef’s Plate which includes three choices of cheese. We had the Seahive, Utah (Cow Cheese) that is rubbed with sea salt and honey. The Delice de Bourgonge, France. With grass and mushroom notes. With a buttery type taste, for me anyway.
I had my wine flight paired with my appetizers compliments of my server whom gave her expertise. My beau had a beer flight. He was so impressed by the choices of his. SideDoor has seasonal cocktails and their beer and wines are always changing.
With that so are their menu items, as it’s never the same with certain items. Which to me makes it more of a wonderful dining experience.
For dinner – Yes I said dinner. We both indulged in their Prime Rib Plate plated with au jus, horseradish and fries. Their horseradish was out of this world. I would have indulged by the spoonfuls but I wanted to be ladylike!
Photo Credit; Jim Colombo
To end our evening we had C.C. Brown’s Hot Fudge Sundae. Straus organic vanilla bean ice cream, with almonds, whipped cream and ever so delicately drizzled in hot chocolate. C.C. Browns was an ice cream shop across from Mann’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood.
Photo Credit; Jim Colombo
So much history with SideDoor and its makes you appreciate the rich foodie adventure along with the rich history. For what we ordered and indulged in, the bill wasn’t that bad. I was actually surprised that is was lower than what I thought it should be for this five star dining experience. I would recommend for a Mom’s night out, Dads night out, After work social, Date night or just because.
You won’t find another restaurant in Orange County with such a rich history, amazing food, drink and a cozy atmosphere. If you have not been to SideDoor in Corona Del Mar, you need to visit. I promise you will be pleased.
SideDoor is a cozy English gastropub that severs seasonal small plates & craft beers amid sofas and fireplaces.
Located in beautiful Corona Del Mar; 3801 East Coast Hwy
Hours are 4:30-11pm
Phone Number (949) 717-4322
