To celebrate the Lunar New Year, I met my adventurous friend Lindsley at Brodard in Fountain Valley.
When I arrived, the first thought was possibly texting her and suggesting a different restaurant. The parking lot was packed, and so was the 8,000-square-foot Vietnamese restaurant, with a line out the door.
But I found a spot, put my name on the reservation list, and hoped the wait wouldn’t be more than the 45 minutes the hostess quoted to get a table.
Much to our delight, we were seated within 15 minutes and enjoyed a feast of shrimp cups, spring rolls, and pad thai. We even had leftovers. And the service was amazing, too. I highly recommend the food, modern atmosphere … everything about Brodard.
Brodard is at 16105 Brookhurst St. near Edinger Avenue. Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Info: brodardrestaurant.net or 714-247-4401.
New dining option
Coming soon to Huntington Beach, Cafe Rio Mexican Grill will feature recipes inspired by the flavors of Northern Mexico and the Rio Grande. The restaurant was started in Utah in 1997, and now has 100 locations in the United States, including several in Orange County.
I’m looking forward to the coconut shrimp tacos with mango sauce and fresh guacamole. And the salmon tacos.
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is hiring for a number of positions. It’s at 7151 Warner Avenue, near Goldenwest Street. Info: caferio.com
More good eating
I am honored to return as a judge for Taste of Huntington Beach, set for Sunday, April 28 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Huntington Beach Sports Complex. This annual event is so much fun, and raises money for the Huntington Beach Children’s Library.
More than 50 restaurants will present their tastiest bites, and breweries and wineries will offer their best sips. Vendors, a silent auction, and the music of The Ramsey Brothers Band ensure an excellent experience.
The Huntington Beach Sports Complex is at 18000 Goldenwest Street, near Talbert Avenue. To sign up as a participant, or for ticket information: tastehb.com
Business honors
On Tuesday, Feb. 26, the Fountain Valley Chamber of Commerce will announce the winners of the 2018 Business & Leadership awards. It’s a highly anticipated annual event, honoring the best of the best in Fountain Valley
I’m going to be there, and will let you know who takes home top honors.
It’s at 10401 Warner Ave. near Brookhurst Street in the Mile Square Golf Course Banquet Room. Info: fvchamber.com or 714-962-3822.