Dine: Tabu Grill
By LB Magazine Staff on August 28, 2010 3:37 PM
Tabu Grill’s philosophy is straightforward: Create a warm, intimate atmosphere and serve food that tastes exceptionally good. This simple strategy has garnered a loyal following and the highest Zagat rating in Southern California—for the second year running—for managing partner Nancy Wilhelm and executive chef Kevin Jerrold-Jones.
Receiving a near perfect score of 29 from Zagat in October 2008 was both a blessing and a curse for the South Laguna eatery. It indeed brought in more business and recognition, but it also added pressure on the staff.
“There was a lot of scrutiny after the Zagat rating last year,” Kevin says. “We had to work constantly to get better just to stay the same. It just blew me away completely when we got it again.”
Kevin has been the executive chef at Tabu for more than three years but has lived in Orange County his entire life. His seasonal, flavor-forward menu is influenced by California wine country cuisine and inspired by the availability of fresh ingredients.
“We probably shop 10 different farmer’s markets on a regular basis,” he says. “We try to get as much as possible from California.”
Tabu Grill serves generous portions of can’t-miss dishes with flavors that leap from the plate. Renowned steaks—a hallmark of the restaurant—are exemplified by their flat iron steak dish. Prepared American “kobe” style with three cheese macaroni and Cabernet veal demi, this decadent dish is worth the guilt.
Inventive dishes centered around prime meats and fresh seafood prevail. Favorites include a 16-oz. prime bone-in rib eye and miso marinated sea bass. For appetizers, the Ahi poke is superb and the scallops, served in a pool of tangerine beurre blanc, will make you an instant scallop fan.
The chic décor with Polynesian accents is a reflection of Nancy’s island-girl spirit. Tabu has recently expanded and is more beautiful and sleek than ever. The welcoming ambiance adds to the overall experience, and once inside, guests feel as though they’ve found the secret local spot.
Tabu Grill is a fine dining experience without the pretense. If you’re looking to treat yourself to welcoming service and an unforgettable meal, get away with your significant other here. As Nancy says, “it’s special, and not just for special occasions.”
New at Tabu Grill
Make your reservations for Tabu’s new four-course prix fixe tasting diners. This is a great way to experience Tabu Grill and it’s a fantastic value at $35. Make your reservations (Sun. – Thursday only).
Hours: Nightly from 5:30 p.m.
Reservations: Recommended
Price: Dinner Entrees: $28 - $55
Location:
2892 S. Coast Hwy. (Nyes Pl.)
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949)494-7743
www.tabugrill.com
