Lauren & Doug
Things To Do
Puesto Los Olivos Irvine
This restaurant is very close to our hearts! It's where Doug works, where we met, and where we got engaged! Try the hero taco (secret menu item), elote street corn and a spicy margarita - our favorites!
Pacific City
As Huntington Beach locals, this is one of our favorite places to hang out. Right on PCH, this outdoor shopping center boasts gorgeous ocean views, fabulous restaurants, and prime shopping! It even has a fancy food court with gourmet tasting options.
Table Rock Beach
If the weather is right, you may want to spend an afternoon at the beach. This small, Laguna Beach cove is Lauren's favorite place in the world! Bring your camera, because this view is picture perfect!
Corona del Mar Beach
On his days off, Doug can be found at this beach scuba diving, free diving, snorkeling or just hanging out. It's a great protected cove that has a lot of local wild sea life.
The Class of '47
Looking for a locals only spot? This Balboa Island dive bar is where Doug spends his early (6am) Saturday mornings bartending. Fully equipped with pool tables and dollar bills on the ceiling, this dive bar is the perfect spot for an early morning Bloody Mary or late night shot of whiskey.
The Huddle
This was the spot of Doug and Lauren's first date (or non-date, depending on who you ask)! It's a great place to shoot pool and grab a drink. There are a few local craft breweries in the area as well (i.e. Gunwhale & Barley Forge).
Laguna Beach
If you're just looking for a hangout spot with tons of options for restaurants, shopping, outdoor activities, and fun, we highly recommend visiting Laguna Beach. Lauren grew up there and it's one of Doug's favorite spots to hang out. There's something for everyone there!
Mi Casa
This is a Stagner staple in Mexican cuisine! It's nothing fancy, but it's been here since Diane was a little girl and it's a great place to have a Margarita, chips and salsa, and a cheese enchilada!
Din Tai Fung
This is one of Lauren's family's favorite places to get some of Southern California's most epic dumplings. It is recommended that you make a reservation through Yelp, as it does get quite busy. If you choose to wait, the restaurant is located inside the South Coast Plaza shopping center, so you can shop while you wait for your table.
Kaisen Sushi
This revolving sushi bar restaurant not only has delicious food, but it also has a great happy hour. Doug introduced Lauren to Toro at this restaurant, and they've shared many bottles of sake here since then.