New dining scene is place to be seen

A new hot spot that caters to locals has opened its doors in the village. Blue Laguna Restaurant Lounge — from the entrepreneurs of Los Angeles’ Blue Moon Lounge — has moved into the old Bamboo space on the corner of Cleo Street and South Coast Highway.

The swanky spot in the Holiday Inn offers fine dining inside and out, an extensive “hand-picked” wine list, brews, happy hour specials and live music entertainment every night of the week.

Chef Chris Darling (of K’ya restaurant) creates an array of tapas-style small plates and California cuisine, while each server mixes their own special cocktail like a “Naughty Nadine” each night.

The space lends a cozy yet elegant feel, and it even has a “VIP” section adorned with plush curtains for private dinner parties.

There are also three flat-screen TVs in the bar and lounge areas for events like Monday Night Football.

Missy Mello, one of Blue Laguna’s four partners, said the restaurant and lounge has been a hit with locals since the grand opening.

“It’s got a really hip vibe, which has been popular with 20- to 30-somethings,” she said.

That’s no surprise since the staff is all younger than 40. And the restaurant serves food from its tapas menu until 1:30 a.m.

“Dinnertime is nice and mellow, but then the place takes on a nightclub feel,” Mello said.

The lounge offers an eclectic mix of music performances including acoustic, jazz, reggae and Latin.

It also hosts “Open DJ Night” on Wednesdays where local DJs can spin for free. If the crowd likes them, the lounge will bring them back for hire.

Mondays are “Locals Night” where Lagunans can get beer, well and tapas at a 50% discount after 7 p.m.

Mello said Blue Laguna aims to support all locals — through the food, music, artwork and employees.

“We really want to embrace the community,” she said. “So far, they have been very welcoming.”

For more information, visit www.bluelagunaoc.com.