While my husband and I enjoy eating out, we’re not a fan of the added fat and calories that come on the side. Because we enjoy diverse, upscale cuisine, we find that eating out can become mundane. We prefer restaurants that offer dishes made with fresh, natural ingredients and unique, inspirational flavors.
This week, Seasons 52 opened it’s first West Coast location at South Coast Plaza. The concept, healthful flavorful dishes under 475 calories, is innovative and bold. And California, with it’s health-conscious, label-reading, calorie-counting residents, is perfectly suited for this type of cuisine.
The fresh grill and wine bar features a seasonally inspired menu and a diverse international wine list (over 100 selections with 60 offerings by the glass). The menu at Seasons 52 changes seasonally (four times a year) and every week you’ll find a selection of newly inspired dishes. The atmosphere is upscale without being stuffy. Executives and families can both feel comfortable dining in the establishment. And might I recommend that if you’re visiting with children that you consider dining on the patio which features two fire pits…
So how does a chef achieve culinary extraordinaire without butter, creams, or a fryer? Seasons 52 chefs use rustic cooking techniques like roasting, grilling, and caramelizing to enhance natural flavors. For example, the Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon I ordered was cooked with a light mustard glaze.
I had an opportunity to have lunch at the venue earlier today and was impressed with the service, presentation and taste. Seasons 52 doesn’t skimp on portions or flavor to achieve their “under 475 calories” fare. From appetizers to dessert, you’ll find their dishes to be satiating and full of flavor. I was most impressed with the richness of their Double Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli.
I was happy to learn that Seasons 52 offers menus to address dietary needs including low sodium, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free). While the venue doesn’t specifically offer a kid’s menu, families should not be deterred from visiting. Servers can verbally advise families of child-friendly meals (which are portioned specifically for children).
Speaking of the service, it’s impeccable. Ask your server to suggest a wine or advise on meal selections. Seasons 52 strives to provide guests with “knowledgeable, approachable service that inspires confidence.”
If you frequent the establishment in the evening, you’ll be treated to nightly entertainment at the piano bar, which begins at 6:00 pm. This is the first time I’ve ever seen a circular piano bar behind the bar.
Seasons 52 is open now and located at the South end of South Coast Plaza near Bloomingdale’s (accessible from Bristol Street). Lunch and dinner are served daily from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm (and until 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday). Entrees range from $12.75 to $26.95 and appetizers are priced from $4.95 to $15.95.
No compensation was received for this post. I was invited to experience dining at the restaurant which facilitated this review.
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I seriously just had to dab my chin. And now, to the kitchen I go…